In Historic Free Speech Victory, Washington, DC Chief Federal Judge Opens Up the Steps of the United States Capitol to 1st Amendment and Free Speech Activities

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Christian Defense Coalition

May 24, 2024



WASHINGTON, May 24, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- "The People's House" has been returned back to the people.



James E. Boasberg, Chief Judge of the United States District for the District of Columbia, issued a permanent injunction against the United States Capitol Police Board barring them from prohibiting free speech and 1st Amendment activities from being held on the lower portion of the eastern steps of the US Capitol.



See Chief Judge Boasberg's order here.



Chief Boasberg's decision came after Rev. Patrick Mahoney filed a federal lawsuit when he was arrested on the steps of the US Capitol.



Rev. Patrick Mahoney was arrested in August of 2021, with several others, for a peaceful demonstration and prayer vigil on the steps of the US Capitol.



Rev. Mahoney was arrested in the exact spot where Congresswoman Cori Bush, the week before, protested and camped out on the Capitol steps.











Over the years, members of Congress could hold demonstrations on the Capitol steps with impunity and people could gather on the steps for photographs and a host of other activities.



However, peaceful 1st Amendments activities like prayer vigils and demonstrations were banned and participation in them would result in arrests.



Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Director of the Washington, D.C. based Christian Defense Coalition, states:

"We celebrate this historic 1st Amendment victory and are thankful for the 'The People's House' being returned back to the people. The 'People's House,' as the US Capitol Building is so rightly called, must be a place where all Americans are afforded the right to come and peacefully celebrate and express their First Amendment Rights and not be reserved exclusively for political elites.



"The First Amendment ensures every American the right to peacefully express their views in the public square free from government intimidation, harassment, or favoritism. This should be especially true at the United States Capitol building.



"This federal court victory sends a powerful message to government officials that the banning and prohibiting of peaceful free speech and religious freedom will not be tolerated."

The Christian Defense Coalition plans on having a worship and prayer service on the Capitol steps in June.



For more information or interviews contact

Rev. Patrick Mahoney at 540.538.4741



SOURCE Christian Defense Coalition



CONTACT: Rev. Patrick Mahoney, 540-538-4741


UN chief calls for African role in global peace and security architecture

Xinhua) 08:50, May 24, 2024

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (Front) speaks at a Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on May 23, 2024. Guterres said Thursday that there is a need to embed African participation and leadership across the global peace and security architecture. (Manuel Elias/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)

UNITED NATIONS, May 23 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Thursday that there is a need to embed African participation and leadership across the global peace and security architecture.

Following World War II, the mechanisms of global governance, including the UN Security Council, were designed by the most powerful countries at that time when many African countries were still in the process of throwing off the shackles of colonialism. Since then, the world has changed. But global institutions have not, he said.

"Today, African countries continue to be denied a seat at the negotiating table, including at this very council. The impacts of these structural inequalities are plain to see," he told an open debate of the Security Council on strengthening Africa's role in addressing global security and development challenges.

Africa deserves a voice in the global peace and security architecture. But strengthening Africa's voice can only happen if African countries can participate in global governance structures as equals, he said. "This must include correcting the lack of permanent African representation at the Security Council. And it must include reforming the global financial architecture, especially its handling of debt, so African countries have the support they need to climb the development ladder."

September's Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to push forward on all of these issues, he noted.

Guterres stressed the need to have peace in Africa itself as too many Africans are caught up in the hell of conflicts, or living with the relentless danger of terrorism and violent extremism in their communities.

The United Nations' partnership with Africa is based on the clear perception that the world body must work with the African Union (AU) on the basis of the principle of African-led solutions for African problems. The United Nations fully supports Africa's pursuit of peace through the AU's flagship Silencing the Guns initiative, he said.

The AU and the United Nations will continue working together to defuse conflicts before they escalate, manage them effectively when they occur, and build sustainable peace when they are resolved, he said.

"Peace is the key to unlocking Africa's future -- for Africans themselves and for strengthening the continent's voice and influence in building peace around the world. Peace depends on African leadership," said Guterres.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (C) speaks at a Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on May 23, 2024. Guterres said Thursday that there is a need to embed African participation and leadership across the global peace and security architecture. (Loey Felipe/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
To build a culturally strong China, it is necessary to enhance cultural confidence and establish cultural aspirations, officials and experts said at a forum on Thursday.

They made the remarks at the second Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength, which was held in Shenzhen, Guangdong province.

Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, delivered the keynote speech at the forum.

Huang Kunming, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Party secretary of Guangdong, also attended and gave a speech.

Those attending the forum highlighted the importance of Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, viewing it as a crucial theoretical framework derived from practical cultural development in the new era. The Thought emphasizes the cultural identity and confidence of the Chinese nation and serves as a guide for conducting ideological and cultural activities.

Efforts should aim for cultural achievements that combine ancient and modern elements, connect China with the West, and stand out historically, participants said.

Meanwhile, they said they advocate promoting cultural innovation and prosperity, protection of cultural heritage, digital empowerment of culture, and reforms in cultural systems and mechanisms, as well as the dynamics and vitality of cultural innovation and creativity.

Furthermore, the attendees emphasized the importance of international cultural exchanges and learning, promoting global civilization initiatives, and better consolidating consensus among civilizations.

Lin Shangli, president of Renmin University of China, said that to better shoulder the new cultural mission with the help provided by Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, Chinese scholars and people from various cultural circles should make more efforts to promote the 5,000-year-old Chinese civilization as a cultural strength that is shared and appreciated worldwide.

Moreover, socialism with Chinese characteristics can also serve as a new cultural force in advancing human development, he said.

"In responding to contemporary developments and significant transformations in human civilization, China should offer new values, theories and wisdom to contribute to human civilization," Lin added.

The two-day forum, which started on Thursday, is hosted by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee under the theme "Chinese Modernization and the New Cultural Mission". The forum debuted last year in Shenzhen.

On Friday, discussions will be held on topics including fostering literature and artistic expression, nurturing publishing talent in the digital age and exploring the cultural opportunities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Burgess Bailey doesnt wait for Memorial Day to pay tribute to those who died in service to the country.

His annual Rumble Quake features an entire weekend of events aimed at acknowledging, remembering and honoring the men and women of the armed forces.

This year will be no different as the Rumble Quake XII kicks off Saturday with a motorcade from the Carolina Fields of Honor Veterans Memorial Park, which is in Kernersville, and travels to The BOAT, Baileys property at 800 Bailey Farm Road.

May is Military Appreciation Month, and thats what were going to do, he said.

Throughout the Memorial Day weekend, Bailey said, visitors can see the North Carolina Moving Wall, which includes the names and photos of all North Carolina Vietnam veterans who were killed in the line of duty. Also listed are their dates of service.

Bailey said the wall is one way of paying tribute to the Vietnam veterans. They didnt get the welcome home they deserved, he said. So this event is a way of giving them a proper welcome home. Bailey said there will be a pictorial replica of the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C.

But its not just Vietnam veterans who will be the focus of the Rumble Quake.

The weekend display will also include photos of the war monuments, World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam, from all 100 counties in North Carolina as well as photos of those monuments from all 50 state capitols. He said there will also be a virtual tour of foreign cemeteries, such as Normandy in France, and a special tribute honoring the Tuskegee Airmen.

Visitors to Rumble Quake will also be able to see video clips from Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery in 2018.

The motorcade, which will be escorted from Kernersville to Statesville by various law enforcement officers, including from the Forsyth, Davie and Iredell County sheriffs offices, the North Carolina Highway Patrol and the Statesville Police Department, is expected to arrive on Bailey Farm Road around noon.

The displays will remain open through Memorial Day. Hours are until 9 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday.

Bailey started this event more than a decade ago to honor those who served and gave their lives as well as the ones still living. He said veterans come by the Vietnam wall and get pictures of the names of fellow soldiers on the wall.

He said its solemn in many cases, but it also gives veterans a chance to talk and share laughs about their experiences.

The main goal, Bailey said, is remembrance. We dont want anyone to forget, he said.

For more information, see www.therumblequake.com or call Bailey at 704-500-1621.
A couple has taken aim at the Town of Marion, filing a $10 million lawsuit against the town after a maintenance crew removed a large quantity of material defined as junk by the town code from their property.

The suit, which names the Town of Marion, Town Manager Bill Rush and Code Enforcement Officer Flave Davis as defendants, argues that in removing the material, the town violated the property owners fifth and fourteenth amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution, as well as their rights under the Constitution of Virginia.

Along with the well-known right to not incriminate oneself, the fifth amendment guarantees protection from the taking of property by the government without compensation, requiring the government to follow certain procedures before depriving a person of their life, liberty or property. The fourteenth amendment and Section 11 of the Constitution of Virginia ensures a similar right.

The Henry Street property has been a matter of concern for Marion officials for the better part of 20 years. Town officials say theyve had numerous conversations and sent multiple letters to the owners trying to remedy the situation.

According to the suit, the owners, Danny Ray Parks and Rebecca Powers Parks, supplement their Social Security Disability income with the sale of scrap metal and resale of discarded and repaired small engine equipment.

Town code requires that the storage or accumulation of such materials on private property be confined to a completely enclosed building, except upon the business premises of a licensed dealer. Materials at the Parks residence, however, were often stored around the home and in the driveway.

According to town code, the accumulation of junk, garbage or other materials, tends to result in blighted and deteriorated neighborhoods resulting in the deterioration of values for adjoining properties; an increase in criminal activity; the spread of vermin and disease; and is contrary to the public peace, health, safety, and general welfare of the community.

In the past, neighbors have asked the town for help in getting the property cleaned up, some speaking out at town council meetings.

In recent years, code enforcement officers have charged Danny Parks multiple times with violating the towns ordinance on accumulating junk materials. Parks was found guilty in June 2021 and in December 2023.

In the later case, a Smyth County judge ordered Parks to comply with the town code and to not sell any remaining items. Since that time, the suit notes, Parks has not been charged again.

In late January, the suit says, Parks received a final notice that he was in violation. At a prior meeting, the town council voted unanimously to instruct town staff to clear the property after a third notice had been issued. The notice, the suit says, told Parks he had 15 days to appeal the administrative decision that he was in violation before a summons would be issued, but no summons ever came. Additionally, it argues, Parks was not given a clear method by which to appeal.

According to town code, if an owner fails to bring a property into compliance, town officials may, in addition to or in lieu of a summons, assign staff to remove, or cause to be removed, any junk, trash, rubbish, grass, weeds or other foreign growth.

On Feb. 21, a town maintenance crew without notification or court order, according to the suit, came to the property and removed all material that Davis, the code enforcement officer, determined to be in violation.

In addition to the property being removed from the front portion of Plaintiffs property, the suit reads, the Town crew, at the direction of Flave Davis employee of Bill Rush, using heavy equipment went behind the Plaintiffs house, located and removed property that Flave Davis determined violated the Town Ordinance.

According to the Parks suit, metal items were sold to Berrys Scrap Yard in Chilhowie and other items were loaded into a large mobile dumpster for disposal. Parks was not compensated for or given an accounting of the proceeds of the scrap metal sale, the suit says.

On Monday, Rush said the town received $128 for the scrap metal. Those funds, he said, would be put toward Parks abatement bill for the removal of the materials.

The suit, filed on May 10, argues that the seizure of the items resulted in loss of income for the couple, as well as in mental and emotional distress. It contends that in doing so, the town violated the due process clauses of the fifth and fourteenth amendments of the US Constitution and of the Virginia Constitution.

The Defendants failure to properly establish a Constitutional approved procedural pathway to perfect the appeal of the Code Enforcement Officers decision, and by entering unto the rear area of Plaintiffs property and engaging in the taking, seizing , and converting of Plaintiffs property without proper court order or legal authorization; and subsequently selling Plaintiffs property for the Town of Marions benefit without just compensation. . .clearly violates the due process clause of the 5th and 14th Amendments to the US Constitution and Article 111 of the Virginia Constitution, the suit reads.

The Parkses, represented by Marion Attorney Herbert Clay, are asking the court to enter a judgement against the town, Rush and Davis jointly and separately and in both their individual and official capacities.

Reached for comment on Monday, Rush said he, Davis, and the town had not yet been served with the complaint. Defendants in civil cases are typically allowed 21 days to file a response from the date they are served.
Did you know there is a locally owned, authentic Thai restaurant run by a Bangkok-trained chef on Orlandos International Drive? We are partnering with them for a giveaway on Instagram!

Located in the heart of Orlandos International Drive, At Siam Thai Cuisine offers an authentic taste of Thailand, rooted in passion and flavor.

Its also got some of the best Thai yellow curry and wings I have had in Orlando!

At Siam Thai Cuisine was born in 2021 from Chef Maneerats vision of owning her own restaurant. Formerly a fitness and yoga instructor in Thailand at Fitness First at Mall Bangkapi in Bangkok, Maneerats dream has come true here in Orlando through At Siam Thai Cuisine restaurant.

Chef Maneerat, also known as Chef Amy, grew up in a small town Northeast of Bangkok, Thailand. She moved to Bangkok to attend her university and graduated with a bachelors of science in Physical Education with a major in Sport Sciences. Starting in 2014, Chef Maneerat began taking cooking classes in Bangkok getting training and perfecting the art of cooking Thai food.

At Siams menu features beloved Thai classics like Phad Thai, Papaya Salad, and Pad Se-Ew, each dish showcasing the vibrant flavors of Thailand, characterized by a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, with key ingredients like lemongrass and chili peppers.

Featured Dishes

CURRY PUFF PASTRY  Golden fried puff pastry stuffed with minced, chicken, potatoes, onions, and yellow curry powder

YELLOW CURRY  with potatoes, onions, and carrots in a mild yellow curry coconut milk stew

SIAM CHICKEN WINGS  sweet, sticky, spicy

TOM YUM GOONG FRIED RICE  Jasmine fried rice seasoned with a spicy tom yum paste, black tiger shrimps, onions, carrots, egg, bell peppers, and a touch of garlic

@ SIAM DUMPLINGS  Steamed minced pork and vegetables wrapped in wonton skin

SWEET AND SOUR PORK  Sauteed choice of your meat with pineapples, cucumbers, carrots, snow peas, bell peppers, and onions in a thai style sweet, and sour sauce

MANGO- COCONUT STICKY RICE

They also cater to vegans, and vegetarians and serve halal chicken and beef.

Monday- Sunday

12:00 pm  10:00 pm

Daily lunch special offered on Tuesday-Friday. Lunch is served with soup or spring roll for $12.95

At Siam Thai Cuisine

8957 International Dr,

Orlando, FL 32819v

(407) 412-5260
Kalama High School had a total of 14 more absences than usual last week as some families expressed concern about the pro-Palestine walk out protest students held in the afternoon.

The school reported 26 unexcused absences and 27 excused absences on May 15, Communications and Grants Manager Nick Shanmac said.

An average day tends to have around 16 unexcused and 23 excused absences. The school has 357 students enrolled. Reasons given for the excused absences included the walk out, medical reasons and vacations. Some absences did not have a reason given.

A walk out protest in 2022 supporting the LGBTQ+ community ended with Kalamas elementary, middle and high schools going into lockdown after a student made threats against the protestors, who were demonstrating outside the high school.

Kalama Police Chief Ralph Herrera said police did not observe or receive reports of any issues associated with the May 15 protest, which took place a few blocks from the school.
U.S. carmaker Tesla broke ground on a mega factory in Shanghai on Thursday to manufacture its energy-storage batteries, Megapacks, a project hailed by the company as a "milestone."

The latest move underscores Tesla's commitment to investing in the world's second-largest economy, defying the rhetoric of "decoupling" and "de-risking" from China ratcheted up by some U.S. politicians.

The new plant spans an area of approximately 200,000 square meters, with a total investment of around 1.45 billion yuan (about 203.94 million U.S. dollars), according to the administration of Lin-gang Special Area of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone.

An aerial panoramic drone photo taken on May 23, 2024 shows the construction site (R) of U.S. carmaker Tesla's Megapack factory in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

The mega factory is the first of its kind built by Tesla outside the United States and the company's second plant in Shanghai, following the inauguration of its gigafactory in 2019 which involved an initial investment of over 50 billion yuan.

"I believe the new plant is a milestone for both Shanghai and Tesla," the company's vice president Tao Lin told Xinhua in an exclusive interview.

"In a more open environment, we can create a new Tesla speed at the Megapack factory, and supply the global market with large-scale energy-storage batteries manufactured in China," she added.

At Thursday's groundbreaking ceremony in Shanghai, Tesla representatives and local government officials formally launched the construction of the Megapack factory, which is expected to begin mass production in the first quarter of 2025, with an initial capacity of 10,000 Megapack units a year.

"With Tesla's benchmark project, we anticipate that within the next three to five years, an industrial cluster centered around energy storage will rapidly emerge," said Lu Yu, an official of the Lin-gang Special Area Administration.

This photo taken on May 23, 2024 shows the groundbreaking ceremony of U.S. carmaker Tesla's Megapack factory in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

After the ceremony, Tesla signed a deal with Shanghai Lingang Economic Development (Group) Co., Ltd., securing the first batch of orders for its Megapacks in China.

Gong Wei, vice president of Lingang Group, said the Megapacks would be used for energy storage in a data center in the Lin-gang Special Area, as part of its efforts to achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality.

Tesla's deep involvement in the energy storage industry now rivals its electric vehicles in importance, Tao said, adding that its energy storage products are currently used in over 60 countries and regions.

The U.S. company already has a factory for its Megapacks in California, which has an annual capacity of 10,000 units.

Each Megapack unit can store over 3.9 megawatt-hours of energy, sufficient to power approximately 3,600 households for one hour.

This photo taken on May 23, 2024 shows the signing ceremony of the first batch of orders for Tesla's Megapacks in China in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

As the global renewables powerhouse, China is a major market for energy storage. Last year, its installed renewable energy capacity surpassed thermal power for the first time, accounting for approximately 50 percent of the global additions to renewable energy capacity.

Tesla's plan to open a Megapack battery plant in Shanghai was announced In April 2023, cementing another foothold for the company in China. The land acquisition deal for the project was signed in December of the same year, and it received a construction permit earlier this month.

Lauding China's efforts in developing new energy industry, including the energy storage sector, Tao said the country boasts complete industrial chains, vast market potentials, and a production and business environment crucial for enterprise growth.

An aerial drone photo taken on May 23, 2024 shows the construction site of U.S. carmaker Tesla's Megapack factory in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

In January 2019, Tesla broke ground on its Shanghai Gigafactory, becoming the first company to benefit from a policy allowing foreign carmakers to establish wholly-owned subsidiaries in the world's largest automotive market and one of the fastest-growing EV markets.

The gigafactory delivered 947,000 vehicles in 2023, an increase of 33 percent from the previous year. It has emerged as Tesla's primary vehicle export hub, with more than half of its global deliveries of over 1.8 million electric vehicles last year originating from there.

Thursday's groundbreaking ceremony for the Megapack plant comes less than a month after Tesla CEO Elon Musk visited China, during which he said the company is willing to deepen cooperation with China to achieve more win-win results.

China's faster-than-expected economic growth of 5.3 percent in the first quarter reaffirms its attractiveness for foreign investment. The number of newly established foreign-invested firms in the country hit 12,000 during the period, up 20.7 percent year on year.
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:

Chinese President Xi Jinping applauds during a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Chinas latest artificial intelligence chatbot is trained on President Xi Jinpings doctrine, in a stark reminder of the ideological parameters that Chinese AI models should abide by. Credit: Sergei Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File

China's latest artificial intelligence chatbot is trained on President Xi Jinping's doctrine, in a stark reminder of the ideological parameters that Chinese AI models should abide by.

China's cyberspace academy earlier this week announced the chatbot trained on Xi Jinping Thought, a doctrine which promotes "socialism with Chinese characteristics."

The chatbot was trained on seven databases, six of which were mostly related to information technologies provided by China's internet watchdog, the Cyberspace Administration of China, or CAC.

Xi Jinping Thought was the seventh database that the chatbot was trained on, according to a WeChat messaging service post by CAC's magazine about the AI model.

The Xi-trained large language model is the latest effort by authorities to spread the Chinese leader's ideology and ideas. Students have had to take classes on Xi Jinping Thought in schools, and an app called Study Xi Strong Nation was also rolled out in 2019 to allow users to learn and take quizzes about his ideologies.

Xi Jinping Thoughtalso known as "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era"is made up of 14 principles, including ensuring the absolute power of the Chinese Communist Party, strengthening national security and socialist values, as well as improving people's livelihoods and well-being.

The chatbot was created primarily to demonstrate the development and practical applications in cybersecurity and IT research, according to the China Institute of Cybersecurity Affairs, which had launched the AI model for internal use.

The AI model would be able to generate report outlines on topics like AI development and productivity, according to the CAC magazine's WeChat post.

"Users can choose different categories of knowledge bases for intelligent question and answer. The professionalism and authority of the corpus ensure the professionalism of the generated content," the post said.

The AI model will also be able to create reports, summarize information and provide translations in Chinese or English for users who have access to it.

However, it's not clear if the Xi-trained chatbot will be meant for public use.

The unveiling of the chatbot comes as the U.S. and China are locked in a race for AI supremacy.

Though San Francisco-based OpenAI's generative AI model ChatGPT has been widely credited as one of the most important developments in the field, China too has ambitions to become the global leader in AI by 2030.

China's access to a population of 1.4 billion also allows the country to amass troves of data to train systems for facial recognition and autonomous driving.

Technology firms such as Alibaba and Baidu have already rolled out primarily Chinese-language AI models similar to ChatGPT for public and commercial use.

However, these AI models tend to be more restricted as they have to abide by China's strict censorship rules. This means that Chinese AI models will often not answer any politically sensitive questions posed to them.

 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:

The top left shows a photo of the system test board, with a red box indicating Darwin3. The top right displays the top-level view of the chip layout, while below are the layout details of the main modules. The chip's structure is organized into a grid of 6*6 groups, each consisting of 4*4 tiles. Each tile comprises a node connected to a router. Except for the RISC-V node, all nodes on the chip are neuron cores, collectively driving their computational functions. Notably, two distinct tile types exist, primarily differing in the size of their axon-in memory. Credit: Science China Press

The Spiking Neural Network (SNN) offers a unique approach to simulating the brain's functions, making it a key focus in modern neuromorphic computing research. Unlike traditional neural networks, SNNs operate on discrete, event-driven signals, aligning more closely with biological processes.

Specialized neuromorphic computing chips are being developed to leverage the benefits of the SNNs better. These chips represent a departure from the traditional computing architecture, offering a promising solution to storage and power constraints in the post-Moore era.

However, to fully realize the potential of SNNs, researchers face several challenges. First, they must ensure the flexibility of neural models to capture the brain's diverse behaviors accurately. Second, they need to address the scalability and density of synaptic connections to support large neural networks effectively. Finally, achieving on-chip learning capabilities is essential for these chips to adapt and improve like actual brains.

Considering these challenges, Professor Gang Pan's team at Zhejiang University collaborated with Zhejiang Lab to develop the Darwin 3 neuromorphic chip, the latest version of the Darwin series. The team delved into numerous neuron and synapse models, analyzed how they work, and identified their key computational aspects.

The findings are published in the journal National Science Review.

Based on their findings, they proposed a new instruction set architecture (ISA) specifically for neuromorphic computing. This ISA allows for rapid state updates and parameter loading, enabling efficient construction of various models and learning rules.

Furthermore, the research team devised an efficient connection mechanism, significantly enhancing on-chip storage efficiency while supporting over 2 million neurons and 100 million synapses on a single chip. The neural networks in our brains are incredibly interconnected.

On average, each neuron can establish connections with thousands of other neurons. The proposed connection mechanism provides a wonderful hardware foundation for building brain-scaled neural networks.

Figure (a) illustrates a neural network consisting of five spiking VGG-16 as the core components. The network is highly adaptable to various artificial intelligence scenarios. Figure (b) and (c) illustrate a neural network directly on-line trained to solve mazes by mapping the maze onto a set of neurons. Excitatory neurons represent free-walking points, while inhibitory neurons represent obstacles. During learning, synaptic weights increase based on specific rules, and inhibitory neurons maintain inhibition. Once the model has learned, it can quickly find the path by observing the direction along which spikes propagate. Credit: Science China Press

The research team has also made significant advancements in on-chip learning capabilities for Darwin3, enabling it to efficiently handle new information and dynamic environments while running spiking neural networks. This has made Darwin3 more adaptable and user-friendly, showcasing exceptional adaptability in complex scenarios.

Recent experiments demonstrate the Darwin 3's impressive capabilities of on-chip learning and ability to support various kinds of SNNs, distinguishing it from other neuromphic chips. The development of the Darwin 3 marks a significant milestone in neuromorphic computing, promising to advance artificial intelligence capabilities.

More information: De Ma et al, Darwin3: a large-scale neuromorphic chip with a novel ISA and on-chip learning, National Science Review (2024). DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwae102
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:

Seoul and Washington have been seeking the extradition of South Korean crypto entrepreneur Do Kwon for his suspected role in fraud linked to the dramatic collapse of his company, Terraform Labs, which wiped out about $40 billion of investors' money and shook global crypto markets.

A Montenegro appeals court on Friday reversed an order to extradite cryptocurrency entrepreneur Do Kwon to South Koreawhere he is wanted over the multi-billion-dollar collapse of the Terraform Labs company.

For months, Seoul and Washington have been seeking the South Korean's extradition for his suspected role in fraud linked to his company's dramatic collapse, which wiped out about $40 billion of investors' money and shook global crypto markets.

The Appeals Court of Montenegro said it had accepted "the appeals of the accused Kwon Do-hyung and his defense attorneys, revoking the decision of the High Court in Podgorica".

The ruling added it would be returning the case to "the first-instance court for a retrial and decision".

The decision came weeks after a string of earlier court decisions in the Balkan country appeared to clear the path for the extradition of the Terraform founder.

The crypto tycoon, whose real name is Kwon Do-hyung, had been on the run for months after fleeing South Korea and then Singapore before the company's crash in 2022.

He was arrested along with an accomplice in Montenegro in March last year.

Montenegro has already deported Kwon's business partneridentified only by his initials J.C.H.to South Korea in early February.

The company's TerraUSD was marketed as a "stablecoin", a token that is pegged to stable assets such as the US dollar to prevent drastic fluctuations.

Do Kwon successfully marketed them as the next big thing in crypto, attracting billions in investments and global hype.

Media reports in South Korea described him as a "genius".

But despite billions in investments, TerraUSD and sister token Luna went into a death spiral in May 2022.

Experts said Kwon had set up a glorified Ponzi scheme, in which many investors lost their life savings.

He left South Korea before the crash and spent months on the run, finally winding up in custody in Montenegro after trying to board a flight with fake Costa Rican travel documents.

In January, Terraform Labs officially sought bankruptcy protection in the United States.

The bankruptcy filing would allow Terraform "to execute on its business plan while navigating ongoing legal proceedings, including representative litigation pending in Singapore and U.S. litigation involving the Securities and Exchange Commission", the firm said in a statement.

The company said it also intended to "meet all financial obligations to employees and vendors".

Cryptocurrencies have come under increasing scrutiny from regulators after a string of controversies during the past year, including the high-profile collapse of the exchange FTX.

 2024 AFP
This article was updated on May 27.

Two people were pronounced dead Thursday night following a shooting in the 2000 block of Colgate Drive, according to the College Station Police Department.

Michael Epperson, 19, has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to a post by CSPD on Facebook.

At around 10:30 p.m. Thursday, police said they began investigating a possible shooting in the 2000 block of Colgate Drive. An hour later police said there were a total of three gunshot victims and that they were searching for Epperson who had fled the victims residence.

One of the victims was pronounced dead on the scene with another dying later at a local hospital, according to police. Officers said the third victim was struck by gunfire inside the residence and was transported to a local hospital.

The victims have been identified as Seferino Aleman, 59, and Isaac Garcia, 22, according to a social median post by CSPD.

At 4:02 a.m. Friday, CSPD said that Epperson had been taken into custody with the assistance of the Killeen Police Department. Epperson was being transported to the Brazos County Jail, according to police.

Late Friday morning, CSPD reported that K-9 units were canvasing Texas 6 for evidence that may have been discarded by the suspect following the shooting. According to police, Epperson fled the scene in a vehicle before being recovered by police several hours later.

Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is a second-degree felony but can be upgraded to a first-degree felony if it is shown that serious bodily injury occurred.

Police said they are now investigating the incident as a homicide.

In 2022, then 16-year-old Epperson was charged with harassment by persons while in detention facility, according to Brazos County Jail records.

In 2023, Epperson was charged with harassment of a public servant in a correctional or detention facility. He was held under a bond of $8,000 and was released on April 18, 2023, after serving his sentence.
A Texas A&M University associate professor has allegedly been terminated after being charged with breaking into a student apartment, according to a probable cause statement from the College Station Police Department.

Jong Wha Chang, a 51-year-old associate pharmacy professor, has been charged with criminal trespass of a habitation, according to Brazos County Jail records. Chang also allegedly has been terminated by Texas A&M, according to KBTX. The Eagle reached out to university officials who said they cannot comment on personnel issues beyond the statement provided to The Eagle earlier in the day.

We want to assure the Texas A&M community that allegations of policy, rule, or legal violations are taken with utmost seriousness and that appropriate measures are being taken to address the situation, Kelly Brown, the associate vice president of Texas A&Ms Division of Marking & Communications said in the statement. The safety of our students, staff and faculty is paramount.

According to police, the victim told officers she was home in the afternoon of March 5 when she was notified of motion at her front door via an electric doorbell. She told police she saw Chang at her door allegedly locking and unlocking her front door. Officers said they viewed a video that corroborated the victims statements.

The victim also told police that on the same day, Chang sent her a picture of a key asking if it was hers and saying that it had been left in his office earlier in the day when multiple students were there eating lunch, according to the probable cause report.

According to police, however, Chang allegedly stole the key from the victims unattended bag and made a copy of it before returning it to the victim.

Officers said that on March 8 Chang used the copied key to enter the victims apartment without permission while the victim was away.

Criminal trespass of a habitation is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of $4,000.

Chang was released under an $8,000 bond on May 11.
China's likely plan to increase temporary tariff rates on imported large-engine gasoline vehicles highlights the country's determination to promote green development and conforms to the rules of the World Trade Organization, officials and experts said on Thursday.

The comments came after the China Chamber of Commerce to the European Union said in a post on microblogging platform X that it was informed by insiders that China may consider increasing temporary tariff rates on imported large-engine vehicles to 25 percent at most.

At a news conference in Beijing on Thursday, He Yadong, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce, said China remains steadfast in its commitment to a green and low-carbon development pathway, and will actively promote and support the transformation of all industries, including the automotive industry, toward more sustainable and low-carbon alternatives.

This commitment extends to high-quality development, with experts from various fields engaging in research and devising strategies to tackle global climate change, He said.

He said some countries and regions are currently straying from the principles of green development and violating market economy standards. Additionally, they are breaching WTO rules by implementing restrictive measures in the new-energy vehicle sector.

"We believe that these measures not only disadvantage consumers in these places but also impede global progress in green transformation and efforts to combat climate change," He said.

Sun Xiaohong, secretary-general of the automotive branch of the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, told China Daily that if China raises the temporary tariff rate on imported large-displacement engine vehicles to 25 percent, it would be in compliance with WTO rules.

In 2018, China voluntarily reduced the tariffs on imported vehicles from 25 percent and 20 percent to 15 percent. Such a move was then aimed at promoting development through openness and meeting the demands of consumption upgrades in a better way, Sun said.

Now, China's reported plan to revert the tariff rates on imported large-engine vehicles to 25 percent, if it comes to pass, would be in line with its goals of energy conservation, environmental protection and green development, Sun said.

Any such move would be reasonable, reflecting China's self-restraint in hiking tariffs.

"The reason for self-restraint is clear. If China and the US endlessly impose tariffs on each other, it is easy to fall into a more complicated situation," said Sun.

The US Trade Representative's office said on Wednesday that some of the steep US tariff increases on an array of Chinese imports will take effect on Aug 1, including quadrupling import duties on Chinese electric vehicles to over 100 percent and an increase in the tariff rate on lithium-ion batteries used in EVs from 7.5 percent to 25 percent.

The USTR office said in a federal notice that a 30-day public comment period will close on June 28.

"The tariffs unilaterally imposed by the US have exceeded that country's trade and social needs, primarily due to political considerations," Sun said. "For example, lithiumion batteries are a product that the US actually needs right now. So why impose tariffs? It is possibly a result of bipartisan competition in the US."

The US has been the largest destination for China's lithium-ion battery exports for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023. In 2023, the worth of lithium-ion batteries exported from China to the US reached $13.54 billion, accounting for 20.8 percent of the total export value of China's lithium-ion batteries, data from the General Administration of Customs of China showed.
The ongoing military drills conducted by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) around Taiwan Island serve as a resolute punishment of the provocative statements by the leader of the Taiwan region, a mainland spokesperson said.

The drills are also a stern warning to external forces that support "Taiwan independence" and interfere in China's internal affairs, as well as a just act to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, in response to a media query.

The mainland will never tolerate nor leave any room for activities seeking "Taiwan independence," Chen said.

"If the separatists of 'Taiwan independence' persist in their reckless actions, we will take resolute measures to crush their attempts and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said.

It should be noted that all the countermeasures are aimed at separatist activities and external interference instead of the compatriots of Taiwan, he said.

Chen called on compatriots in Taiwan to firmly stand on the right side of history, be upright Chinese who discern right from wrong and act with righteousness, and join hands with their mainland counterparts to oppose "Taiwan independence" and external interference and safeguard the common homeland of the Chinese nation.
A large crowd of lawyers, law enforcement personnel, judges, courthouse employees  even the mayor  showed up Thursday to wish a happy retirement to longtime District Court bailiff Sandy Kendall.

The party celebrated Kendalls 38-year career on the third floor of the Hall County Courthouse. During those years, she served four District Court judges and assisted with 427 jury trials.

Over the last two and a half years, Kendall worked with Judge Patrick Lee.

In his remarks at Thursdays party, Lee said hes benefited from Kendalls wisdom, professionalism and, most importantly, friendship.

Whenever Lee had a question, she always had the answer, he said.

Before Lee, Kendall served District Court Judges William Riley, James Livingston and Mark Young.

Lee was fortunate, he said, to begin his career on the bench with Kendalls valuable assistance.

Kendall thought about retiring when Young retired in 2021. I appreciate you staying on when I started, and Im forever in your debt, Lee said.

Lee presented Kendall with a certificate of recognition from Nebraska Chief Supreme Court Justice Mike Heavican.

Lee also gave her a crystal gavel in appreciation of all the judges shes trained, he said.

A Hall County employee, Kendall was also honored at Tuesdays Hall County Commission meeting.

At that meeting, Lee talked about the quality of Kendalls work. Without her, nothing could be efficient in my world, Lee said.

In addition to the jury trials, Kendall has kept the lives of four judges on track and has helped thousands of jurors and litigants navigate the judicial system in Hall County, Lee said.

Without her expertise, the service provided to the citizens and litigants of Hall County would not have been as efficient or professional as it has been for the last four decades, Lee said.

Hall County Commission President Ron Peterson presented Kendall with a certificate, a small gift and the thanks of all the taxpayers in Hall County.

Thank you so much. It has indeed been an honor, said Kendall, a graduate of Grand Island Senior High.

In an interview, Kendall said a bailiff kind of protects the jury, keeps the public from talking to them, especially during deliberations. A Grand Island lawyer described her role as babysitting the jury.

In addition to working with juries, a bailiff serves as secretary to the judge.

I have loved this job  absolutely loved it, she said during a brief break from Thursdays reception. Its just rewarding and I met so many people, and so many kind people. It makes me feel good when I leave at the end of the day.

Whats been the best part of her career? Its just all good. It really is. Its a wonderful job. It wasnt just a job. It was more of a lifestyle. It really was.

Kendall had one parting comment for a reporter at the end of the interview.

We need a new courthouse, she said.
Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne, second left, and Allen Onyema, the chairman of Air Peace, with their spouses at a business forum/dinner on May 3 at the Delborough Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. (Photo courtesy Air Peace)

As LIAT 2020 pursues the required processes involved in obtaining an Air Operators Certificate (AOC) from the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA), those efforts have apparently hit another bump in the road.





First, under Antigua and Barbudas laws, ECCA has to be satisfied that an applicant for an AOC is an Antigua and Barbuda citizen. This concern was raised in relation to Allen Onyema, the founder of Air Peace, the principal investor in LIAT 2020.





This was taken to have been dealt with when in 2023, it was announced that Allen Onyema had obtained Antigua and Barbuda citizenship under the countrys Citizenship by Investment Programme.





However, the concern resurfaced recently when the New York Post said on May 18, "The charismatic businessman is well-known in Nigeria, but is the subject of a US federal indictment filed back in November 2019.





"At the time, the US Department of Justice released a statement saying Onyema was charged with bank fraud and money laundering for moving more than (US)$20 million from Nigeria through US bank accounts in a scheme involving false documents based on the purchase of airplanes.





The obvious question has made its rounds since: Could the new LIAT have its wings clipped before takeoff?

And in a related development last week, British media reports targeted Onyema after he was among a small group of officials who greeted Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle when they touched down in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 12.





The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reported to have travelled on Air Peace on their three-day tour of the country.





As is now widely known, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have taken a considerable fall in the pecking order among the British Royalty, and with that in recent shenanigans with Onyema, more questions abound about Omyema real agenda.
In celebrating its 20th anniversary, the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCGB) in New York on Saturday bestowed special honors on eight outstanding nationals during a gala ceremony at Antuns in Queens Village, Queens, New York.





Before effervescent patrons, the group honored: psalmist and evangelist Bridget Blucher; UVCGB member, former vice president and guitarist Geoffrey Holder; Laverne McDowald-Thompson, former president, now vice president, of the Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. (COSAGO), the Brooklyn-based umbrella Vincentian group in the US; Sherrill-Ann Mason, chairperson of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc.; Videographer and photographer Lesley Richards; renowned graphic artist and former Caribbean Tourist Organization (CTO) New York staffer Annette Stowe; Vaughan Toney (posthumously), late president and chief executive officer of the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Centers in Brooklyn; and journalist Dr. Nelson A. King.





Vincentian-born Atiba Edwards, the first Black chief executive officer and president of the Brooklyn Childrens Museum, delivered the keynote address.





"As we celebrate this important milestone, we wish to express our sincere gratitude to each of you who has supported us over the years, said UVCGB president and founder the Rev. Dr. Roxie Morris, who was recently officially installed as the first pastor of Hope Restored Tabernacle, Inc., an evangelical church in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn.





Consul General to the United States Rondy "Luta McIntosh expressed "heartfelt congratulations to the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn and all your awardees.





He particularly singled out Toney, stating that his death is "our single greatest loss.





Crispin Friday, COSAGO president, congratulated UVCGB on the 20th anniversary milestone, stating that his organization, "honors, respects and appreciates the UVCGB for their important work in our community, and their significant contributions to our St. Vincent and the Grenadines.





The ceremony was punctuated with dynamic singing by UVCGB members and Blucher, a pre-eminent Caribbean gospel artiste.
Prof Mark Wuddivira - Dean of the Faculty of Food and Agriculture, stressed that the region cannot afford to continue haemorrhaging billions of dollars on food imports. (Photo Credit: The UWI)

CARICOM and the University of the West Indies (UWI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishing a consortium of key educational institutions involved in agricultural research.





This eventuality, formalised on May 15 at the St. Augustine Campus, The UWI, was in the making since 2022, when Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago called on The UWI to champion the fight to decrease the regions US$5 billion food import bill by 25 per cent by the end of 2025.





Answering the call, The UWIs Faculty of Food and Agriculture took the initiative to unite regional universities, i.e. their agriculture faculties, to create the Consortium of Universities in Caricom involved in Agricultural Education and Research (CUCAER).





CUCAER comprises UWI, the University of TT (UTT), Anton de Kom University of Suriname, the University of Guyana, and the University of the Bahamas.





Dean of the Faculty of Food and Agriculture Prof Mark Wuddivira in his address said at the signing ceremony, "Through CUCAER, we aim to harness the collective strength of our institutions to identify key research objectives, consolidate resources, and facilitate human capital development.





CUCAER, in collaboration with stakeholders across government, academia, industry, and civil society, aims to drive sustainable agri-food system development in line with national and regional priorities.





Wuddivira said, "We are committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence in agricultural education and research, each contributing unique expertise and resources to address our regions complex challenges.





He also highlighted the negative economic effects of the Caribbeans reliance on imported food.





"The enormity of our food-import bill poses a significant threat to our economic stability. It is imperative that we take decisive action to reduce our dependence on external food sources and cultivate our agricultural potential.





Wuddivira said the economic strain imposed by the regions food-import bill required immediate action.

"We cannot afford to continue haemorrhaging billions of dollars on imports when we possess the capacity to develop sustainable agricultural practices.





CEO and technical director of the Caricom Private Sector Organisation Dr Patrick Antoine said the importance of public-private partnerships was crucial in achieving such objectives.





"Collaboration between academia, government, and the private sector is indispensable in driving sustainable agricultural development in the Caribbean.





He said if a food item could be sourced from outside the region, it could be grown in the Caribbean.





Senior lecturer Dr. Ronald Roopnarine said a collaborative approach was necessary.




You are here: China

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for efforts to secure a bumper summer grain harvest and promote the innovative development of agriculture.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits a scientific research institution in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, May 22, 2024. Li made a research trip to the province from Wednesday to Thursday. [Photo/Xinhua]

Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a research trip to central China's Henan Province from Wednesday to Thursday.

During his inspection of high-standard farmlands in the city of Xinxiang, Li called for efforts to enhance cross-regional mechanized harvesting, prevent and control disasters, and prepare for summer sowing.

Minimum grain purchase prices should be utilized well to ensure farmers are able to earn money, he said.

During his tour, he also visited a seed-breeding innovation center, a food enterprise and a scientific research institution.

Efforts should be made to promote the construction of innovative platforms in the seed industry, and to strengthen support for research personnel in the agricultural sector, Li said.

He noted the importance of efforts to leverage the leading role of key enterprises and promote the coordinated development of the entire industrial chain to develop a specialty food industry.

Deepening the reform of science and technology mechanisms is an important measure to achieve greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, Li said.
(TBTCO) - Trong top 10 xe ban chay nhat thang 9/2024, tat ca cac mau xe gop mat eu co doanh so tang truong ang ke, at tren 1.000 chiec/thang. ieu nay kha de hieu boi ay thuong la thang bat au cho ot cao iem mua sam cuoi nam, cung nhu la thang au tien dong xe san xuat, lap rap trong nuoc uoc huong 50% le phi truoc ba tu chinh sach uu ai cua Chinh phu.
AESG, a leading international consultancy, engineering and advisory firm founded in the UAE, has appointed Daniel King as the head of this rapidly expanding Cost Management division.

In this role, King will spearhead the delivery of best-in-class cost management services for large, complex construction projects in a manner that optimises cost efficiency and minimises commercial risk for clients.

King, who has over two decades of cost consultancy experience, spanning multi-million-dollar projects in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and the UK will report directly to AESG's Partner and Global Head of Cost Management, Gary Tracey.

Welcoming the appointment, Tracey said: "Daniel has been hired due to both his reputation and enormous value add he can bring to ensure cost certainty to meet our clients budgets. Far from being an inevitability, budget overruns can be avoided through skilful planning and sound strategy."

"This requires striking a precise balance between a myriad of factors including material costs, labour expenses, project timelines, and quality standards  which is what we at AESG have consistently achieved for our clients," he stated.

"Our cost management service works to assure our clients that their visions can be made a reality, unimpeded by the pitfalls that plague projects that skip this crucial consideration. And with Daniels experience we can further enhance this service for our clients," he added.

Before joining AESG, King had served as Director of Cost Management at Currie & Brown, leading a team of over 70+ cost consultants, and working on iconic projects.

Prior to this, as Senior Commercial Manager for the UAE at EllisDon, he led commercial and cost management for multiple large-scale projects on Saadiyat Island.

"Through our multidisciplinary service offering, clients can get access to strategic, well-rounded, and integrated solutions across disciplines," said King.

"The companys cost management division is on an impressive upward trajectory. I am excited to help drive its ongoing success and be a part of the landmark projects that the company is working on," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Samana Developers, one of the leading real estate developers in Dubai, has announced the appointment of Nima Khojasteh as its new Chief Sales Officer (CSO). He has been set a sales target of AED12.5 billion ($3.5 billion) for 2024.

With over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, Khojasteh, a British national with honours in business studies, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role at Samana Developers.

His proven track record in sales and leadership with the UAEs top developers such as Dubai Properties and Emaar, coupled with a deep understanding of local market dynamics, makes him an invaluable addition to the company's executive team and Samanas growth journey.

High calibre talent

Imran Farooq, Chief Executive Officer of Samana Developers, commented: "I am glad to share our vision of picking creme de la creme to retain our position of the top performers in Dubais real estate sector. It helps Samana Developers bringing the best property assets for investors as well as playing a leading role in the growth of the company. Nima Khojasteh is one such high calibre talent. I welcome him to the Samana family. I am confident that his extensive experience and strategic vision will be instrumental to accelerating growth of Samana Developers."

In his role, Khojasteh will be responsible for designing and driving sales strategy and spearheading initiatives to enhance customer experience, customer satisfaction and meet the ambitious target. He will work closely with the sales and marketing teams to develop and implement innovative strategies to maximise revenue growth.

Khojasteh said: "I know Samana Developers and its growth. It is impressive to see the meteoric rise of Samana Developers. I am honoured to be part of this journey. I look forward to collaborating with the talented teams here to create value for our customers and stakeholders."

The multi-award winning Samana Developers is renowned for its commitment to delivering high-quality projects on time and that exceed customer expectations. --TradeArabia News Service
Legal and advocacy firm Bracewell LLP represented the consortium, which succeeded in its bid, won and reached financial close of the Juranah Independent Strategic Water Reservoir Project in Saudi Arabia.

The consortium comprised Vision International Investment Company (Vision Invest), Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PSJC (Taqa) and Gulf Investment Corporation (GIC) which reached financial close on May 16, 2024. Bracewell was supported by STAT Law in Saudi Arabia.

The project is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia under a Build, Own, Operate, Transfer (BOOT) model, placing greater reliance on the private sector in developing water infrastructure.

Serving water

The project consists of strategic tanks with a total storage capacity of 2,000,000 cu m, and operational tanks with a capacity of 500,000 cu m. The project will also play an important role in serving water for Hajj peak demand in Makkah and Madinah. The consortium, through its project company, is responsible for building, owning, and operating the project for a term of 30 years. The ownership of the project shall thereafter transfer to SWPC.

Andrej Kormuth, who led the transaction for Bracewell, commented: We are extremely proud to have advised Vision Invest, TAQA and GIC on this first-of-its-kind project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to apply our broad project documents, construction and financing expertise, ultimately resulting in a successful financial closing.

Bracewell lawyers involved in the transaction include:

Partners: Andrej Kormuth, Oliver Irwin and Tom Swarbrick

Senior Counsel: Shane Jaftha and Bagyasree Nambron

Senior Associates: Shayan Najib and Nick Meyer

Senior Paralegals: Tess Luijcx and Ghaidaa Qaraqish. -- TradeArabia News Service
MBC Academy has announced the graduation of its latest cohort of talented students, with a grand ceremony held on the sidelines of the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival.

The ceremony was held at the Universite Cote d'Azurs Campus Georges Melies, MBC Academys latest graduation event saw the honouring of 30 students from its prestigious scholarship programme.

Celebrating the achievements of 15 acting students and 15 filmmaking students from the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region  who have completed their intensive training in the heart of the film industry  the momentous event included the screening of a year-in-review video, including BTS footage, showreels, adverts, and short films by the students, followed by speeches by various representatives. The event concluded with a cocktail reception and gala dinner at the Pullman Cannes Mandelieu.

Incredible opportunity

Zeinab Abu Alsamh, General Manager of MBC Studios KSA and CEO of MBC Academy, commented: We are absolutely delighted to celebrate our latest filmmakers scholarship students. These immensely talented individuals  studying either filmmaking or acting  have embraced the incredible opportunity to be present at the Cannes Film Festival 2024.

Driven by their passion and dedication, I am confident that our graduates are making the most of this experience by forging connections and pursuing potential opportunities that could lead to exciting collaborations and successful projects in the future.

She continued: Here at MBC Academy, we are very proud of their accomplishments. Our latest programme wouldnt have been complete without the support of our partners, ESRA and Generation 2030, who have both played a crucial role in nurturing these students, offering them top quality training, guidance, and project development and facilitation.

I am greatly optimistic that in a few years, we will see some of these students presenting their work themselves at the Cannes Film Festival. This graduation ceremony served as a unique home away from home hub where local, regional, and global creatives, producers, and filmmakers converged.

MBC Academys latest scholarship programme attracted over 400 applicants, out of which 30 exceptional students were selected. These students embarked on an enriching journey, culminating in todays graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in their professional careers.

Partners in film

MBC Academys partners for this latest round of graduates were ESRA (Ecole Superieure de Realisation Audiovisuelle) and Generation 2030.

Founded in 1972, ESRA Group stands as Europes leading private institution in film education, offering theoretical and practical training in film, television, sound, music, and animation. With campuses in Paris, Nice, Cannes, Rennes, Brussels, and partnerships in New York and China, ESRA has nurtured numerous industry professionals among its 2,000 current students and over 9,000 alumni.

The collaboration with ESRA provided MBC Academy students with unparalleled access to top-tier resources and mentorship.

Creative training

On his part, Thierry Collard, Director of ESRA Cote dAzur, commented: It is a privilege for ESRA Cote d'Azur to have welcomed in Cannes, for the first time, 30 Saudi students in Acting and Film Making. The creative training was developed with ESRA know how established both in France and internationally with our branches in China and the US. This has enabled us to discover a young generation of Saudi actors and film makers, full of creativity and tenacity. The whole ESRA team is happy to have contributed to strengthen the ties between our two countries and to have achieved these programmes.

Generation 2030, meanwhile, is a French association established in 2019 which aims to foster cultural and social bridges between France and Saudi Arabia by bringing together young talents from diverse backgrounds.

Through various training programmes in cinema, animation, design, culinary arts, archaeology, sports, and female leadership, Generation 2030 has organised eight projects involving over 120 trainees since 2022. Their on-ground support was instrumental in the success of the MBC Academy scholarship programme.

Soha Alharbi, Chairwoman of Generation 2030, added: "Since its establishment, Generation 2030 has taken part in the growth of the young Saudi cinema and its dynamic. The association facilitates the development and implementation of training programmes between French cinema schools and stakeholders of the Saudi Audiovisual industry such as MBC Group. We are delighted of the result of this unique programme, which trains the next generation of Saudi talents."

Success stories

Since its launch in 2022, MBC Academy has offered specialised training programmes in various fields, including 3D character animation in collaboration with Gobelins School in Paris. The 2023/2024 academic year expanded to include disciplines in acting and filmmaking, with training held at ESRA campuses in Cannes and Nice.

Notable alumni so far include Reham Yashar, who is now a character creator at a game development company. Graduate Muzoon Albogomi authored a story animated by MBC Academy for the Hakawati Nation show. Hussain Alqurrous is another graduate who is credited with creating Do It, a short animation film featured in several international film festivals. MBC Group is the largest and leading media organisation in the Mena.--TradeArabia News Service
Blue-tailed bee eaters forage at Wuyuanwan blue-tailed bee eater nature reserve in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 10, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

China has recently released an updated version of the national species database, known as the Catalogue of Life China 2024 Annual Checklist, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) said Thursday.



The list recorded a total of 155,364 species and subspecies, up 6,690 from the 2023 figure.

The work on this updated database began in 2008 with the aim of illustrating the annual biodiversity conditions in the country and fostering biodiversity research and conservation efforts, said Ji Liqiang, an official of the CAS Biodiversity Committee.

The list was jointly compiled by researchers from the Institute of Zoology, the Institute of Botany, the Institute of Microbiology, the Institute of Oceanology and the Chengdu Institute of Biology under the CAS as well as other institutions.
Top dermatologists from the UAE and Saudi Arabia convened in Dubai recently to discuss advancements in the treatment of generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP), and introduce the first targeted therapy developed for the disease.

The General Pustular Psoriasis Summit 2024 led by Boehringer Ingelheim, one of the worlds leading research-driven biopharmaceutical companies, took place from May 17-18, 2024 in Dubai.

While underlining the urgency of controlling the danger that an auto inflammatory disease like GPP presents, medical experts emphasised the importance of treating flare up of the disease that can be life-threatening, using the latest evidence-based treatments.

Additionally, the meeting aimed to familiarise experts with Spesolimab, the first targeted therapy developed specifically for GPP, which has been approved by the regulatory agencies of Saudi and the UAE.

Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP) is a rare and severe subtype of psoriasis, characterized by the onset of painful, pus-filled blisters on the skin.

GPP patients experience sudden and unpredictable flares lasting several weeks, requiring hospitalisation, significantly impacting multiple aspects of their lives including work, social connections, and their overall health.

In addition to the chronic nature of GPP, patients often face stigma fuelled by misconceptions about its contagiousness, leading to heightened levels of anxiety and depression among patients, as evidenced by research findings.

The forums two-day agenda facilitated knowledge-sharing around the complexities of GPP focusing on diagnosis and clinical practice.

The forum also drew the participation of renowned global medical experts to present the patient case studies, emerging treatment guidelines and clinical data on Spesolimab, a novel selective antibody that blocks the activation of the interleukin-36 receptor (IL-36R), a signalling pathway within the immune system shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of GPP.

Dr Ayman Al Anaeem, Dermatologist Consultant, said: By fostering collaboration with medical experts, we gain insights vital to understanding patients' real challenges. Through the GPP Summit, we aim to build a forum that facilitates discussions on treatment guidelines, fostering best practices exchange with the experts in the field.

We believe that together, we can improve patient outcomes and transform lives affected by GPP."

Ibrahim B, Hamad Obaidallah Hospital, Emirates Health Services, Ras Al Khaimah, said: Collaborating with the broader medical community on platforms like this summit offers invaluable insights into the multifaceted aspects of GPP treatment and management.

Amid the rarity of GPP, patient awareness remains alarmingly low, resulting in detrimental delays in seeking vital medical intervention. Addressing this awareness gap is paramount. Through enhancing our understanding of available therapies, together, we can profoundly impact the lives of individuals navigating the challenges of GPP."

Mohammed Alajlan, Consultant of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, said: GPP flares not only inflict physical discomfort but also levy emotional turmoil and societal prejudice on those battling this condition.

This meeting serves as a beacon, shedding light on real-world evidence crucial for enhancing clinical outcomes and delivering relief to patients. Through collective insights shared here, we deepen our understanding, translating into timely solutions addressing the most pressing medical needs of GPP patients."  TradeArabia News Service
The sixth edition of the ExpoCulinaire exhibition, hosted by Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS) from May 20-22, saw a 30% increase in exhibitors, with the participation of more than 3,500 chefs from around the world, a report said.

Hosted with support from the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the event was organised by Purple Kitchen Events, Emirates News Agency, WAM, said.

ExpoCulinaire 2024 witnessed a significant surge in visitor turnout, featuring an extensive list of top-tier professionals and enthusiasts in the cooking, food, hospitality, culinary, and tourism sectors.

It showcased the finest products and services in the culinary industry, including restaurant service equipment, bakery and food preparation supplies, storage and cooling systems, and tableware and accessories.

The event featured more than 200 companies and brands representing some leading regional and global food and hospitality names.

ExpoCulinaire 2024 brought together food and beverage industry leaders and major investors from around the globe, offering them an ideal platform to explore the latest trends in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Furthermore, the event provided businessmen with opportunities to exchange knowledge and experiences, forge business deals, and establish partnerships in the hospitality sector, while supplying food products and ingredients to restaurants and hotels.

The sixth edition of ExpoCulinaire spotlighted the skills and talents of top chefs and culinary experts who presented picture-perfect displays of delicious dishes from some of the worlds most famous cuisines.

Participants included culinary professionals representing the UAE, Iraq, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Azerbaijan, China, and Denmark, in addition to other countries showcasing their expertise in both cooking and pastry arts.

During the show, many exhibiting companies and brands presented new healthy food products that align with the UAE's vision and commitment to sustainability.

Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, pointed out that the exhibition, originating in Sharjah, has become a global platform where professional chefs and specialised businesses can showcase their latest products and services and exchange expertise with counterparts worldwide.

A substantial number of Emirati chefs and culinary experts took part in some of the industry's top-billed competitions included in the ExpoCulinaire 2024 show, serving as both contestants and jury members. Resident chefs also showcased Emirati cuisine, promoting its unique qualities and global appeal to the attendees.

The event experienced a marked increase in competition participants, notably in the 27th Emirates International Salon Culinaire, the largest single-entry chef competition in the world. Organised by the Emirates Culinary Guild with the support of the Sharjah Chamber, the prestigious competition featured 928 chefs vying for top honours.
Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Evonik, a leading speciality chemicals company headquartered in Germany, have signed a memorandum of understanding on the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum (May 14-16) that is aimed at exploring specific investment opportunities focused on sustainable solutions for energy transition.

As an important cornerstone of Evoniks strategy to enable green transformation, the smart materials portfolio consists of a variety of innovative products, including membranes for gas separation. Potential future investments are foreseen to take place in Umm Alhoul free zone in Qatar.

The MoU was signed by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Faisal Al-Thani, CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), and Joerg Syrzisko, President Region EMEA of Evonik, in a ceremony attended by senior executives from both entities. The signing took place at the Qatar Economic Forum venue, Raffles Doha.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Faisal Al-Thani, CEO of QFZ, said: "We are delighted to sign this MoU with Evonik and to work together to facilitate Evoniks engagement with the relevant stakeholders and resources, with the aim to establish a manufacturing facility within the free zones in the State of Qatar.

The facility is planned to serve the oil and gas and industrial processes sectors in the GCC & Middle East; a market traditionally supplied from the US and Europe. This collaboration aims to significantly contribute to the continued development of Qatars industrial capabilities by integrating cutting-edge sustainable technologies into our operations.

The presence of Evonik in Qatars free zones will also encourage broader collaboration between Evonik and QFZ on innovative and sustainable solutions in the specialty chemicals sector, driving forward our agenda for economic diversification and long-term resilience in line with the goals of Qatars third National Development Strategy 2024-2030.

We are setting a new standard for industrial excellence, sustainability, and collaboration in the region, ensuring that QFZ remains at the forefront of industrial innovation and development.

Products of the smart materials division contribute to Evoniks Next Generation Solutions portfolio.

By 2030, Evonik aims to invest more than 3 billion euros in Next Generation Solutions  products with superior sustainability benefits. That is around 80 percent of annual growth investments. The respective products are known for sustainability, low energy consumption, and extended lifetime.

Potential investments will benefit from the location of the free zones in proximity to the growing Middle East market, the opportunity to localize the supply chain, easy access to Hamad Port, and the integrated facilities that make QFZ a one-stop shop to facilitate Evoniks regional production and distribution.

Joerg Syrzisko, President of Region EMEA of Evonik, said: This MoU signifies a significant milestone for Evonik. The burgeoning markets represented in the Gulf Cooperation Council offer very exciting opportunities for Evonik to expand our regional footprint and to convince new customers of our sustainable Next Generation Solutions portfolio.

We are looking forward to partnering with Qatar Free Zones Authority and working together to establish potential investments in the free zones in the State of Qatar. With the right partners at our side we feel very welcomed to identify the best opportunities and needs in the region for situating our advanced manufacturing technologies here.

This initiative will stimulate further economic growth and broaden our market outreach in the Middle East."  TradeArabia News Service
With disruptions expected to continue and worsen, strategic value chain tie ups will be essential to ensure a sustainable future, agreed speakers at the 15th Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Supply Chain Conference.

Held under the theme Harnessing Connectivity for a Sustainable Tomorrow, the prestigious annual conference hosted 320 delegates from 114 companies in 17 countries, addressing some of the most crucial themes shaping GCC chemical supply chains.

Khalid Sultan Al-Kuwari, CEO, Q-Chem and Chairman, Supply Chain Committee, GPCA, welcomed delegates to the event on the morning of Day 1. The digitally enabled supply chain ecosystem holds the power to transition the industry from having a limited view of its supply chain to having a complete view of the entire chain from sourcing to planning to customer delivery, Al-Kuwari told delegates.

Granular detail

Imagine a world where every step in the supply chain, from sourcing raw materials to final product delivery, is meticulously tracked and documented. This level of granular detail allows companies to identify and eliminate inefficiencies that contribute to environmental waste, he added.

Highlighting the role of rail transportation in enabling greener supply chains, Dr Bashar Al Malik, CEO, Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), told delegates in his Plenary address on Day 1: At SAR, we harness the strength of rail's capacity and efficiency to not only move large volumes over long distances, but to do so in the most environment-friendly manner possible. By effectively replacing more than 2 million truck trips on our highways, we've reduced fuel consumption by over 3 million barrels.

In the first Keynote address of the day, Dr Carolin Stumm-Wenk, MD Area Arabian Gulf, Hapag-Lloyd, highlighted the opportunities to future proof chemical supply chains not only for growth and resilience, but also for innovation, as the industry continues to face significant disruptions.

In his keynote address, Saleh Al Shabnan, Chairman of the Board, Saudi Supply Chain & Procurement Society, called upon the industry to minimise the effects of geopolitical disruptions by establishing a resilient supply chain, and embracing innovation, localisation, and logistics connectivity.

Local content development

Day 2 began with Welcome remarks from Saleh Al-Suwaiti, CEO, FAHSS-TUV and Vice-Chairman, Supply Chain Committee, GPCA. Supply chain leaders heard about the importance of local content development and its impact on GDP.

Multiple global events such as regional conflicts, virus outbreaks, climate change and the banking crisis have impacted supply chains. As a result, volatility in supply chains has been significant, demanding advanced risk management amid new-age disruptions.

Building upon the insights from this years conference, Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: The GCC must invest in logistics infrastructure, including seaport expansion and road and rail networks. It must develop specialised logistics cities and free zones. A GCC Railway would herald a new phase of economic integration and trade between GCC countries. At the same time, digitalisation and optimisation continue to be crucial in enabling supply chain agility, as technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and blockchain promise to enhance supply chain visibility and traceability.

Vital role

He added: The regulatory environment will play a vital role in optimising GCC logistics. Simplifying customs procedures to reduce delays and costs as well as implementing trade facilitation measures, such as Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), can provide a lifeline for the regional industry. Lastly, the industry must address Scope 3 emissions and invest in the production of low-emission maritime fuels, such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, alongside investing in renewable energy sources and sustainable packaging solutions, Dr Al-Sadoun concluded.--TradeArabia News Service
More than 46,000 industry professionals from over 160 countries  including 33,500 visitors  attended the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which concluded on May 9, in Dubai, UAE.

This represents a 15% year-on-year increase in attendees compared to ATMs landmark 30th edition, setting a new record for the show and demonstrating the strength, resilience and momentum of the global travel and tourism sector.

In line with ATM 2024s theme, Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship, over 2,600 exhibitors gathered at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to explore the drivers behind industry growth and identify future opportunities within the global tourism sector.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: My colleagues and I are delighted that so many industry professionals from around the world were able to join us in Dubai to explore how innovation and entrepreneurship are shaping a more efficient, profitable and sustainable tourism sector for future generations.

We are thrilled to have set a new show record, underscoring our position as the travel and tourism exhibition of choice as we continue to drive global growth within the industry.

ATM 2024 welcomed Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, who chaired a meeting of The Executive Council during the show.

He approved a series of major transport and tourism-related projects in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

This years opening session saw policymakers from across the region explain how Gulf nations are working together to streamline the GCCs tourism offering.

The panel discussion followed opening remarks from Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, featured insights from Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority; Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Oman; and Sarah Buhijji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority.

Experts on the Indian outbound market shared key insights during the session Unlocking the True Potential of Indian Travellers.

Virendra Jain, CEO and Co-Founder of VIDEC, a travel, tourism and hospitality boutique advisory and analytics firm, provided details surrounding market opportunity assessments, channel and distribution analysis, characteristics and behaviours of Indian travellers, and projections of the markets outbound travel trends over the next decade.

Panellists outlined predictions for the future of air travel and the importance of innovation in enabling the industry to accommodate the significant growth in air traffic during the session Looking Skyward for Innovation: How Technology is Disrupting Aviation. Moderated by travel expert Mark Frary, the session featured insights from Cirium, IATA, AviationXLab and Riyadh Air.

InterLnkd overcame stiff competition to win the third ATM Start-up Pitch Battle, which was held in association with Intelak. The UK-headquartered company uses specific data points and an intelligent matching engine to link the travel and hospitality sectors with the fashion, beauty and retail industries.

Experience Abu Dhabi secured the Best Stand Design Award (over 150 metre square) at ATM 2024. An independent panel of judges praised the tourism authoritys exhibition space for its flowing design, innovative use of greenery and excellent visibility from the show floor.

Other Best Stand Winners included AlUla, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, ExploreTECH, flydubai, Qiddiya Investment Company and Saudi Tourism Authority.

Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024s strategic partners included Dubais Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as Destination Partner, Emirates as Official Airline Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts as Official Hotel Partner, and Al Rais Travel as Official DMC Partner.

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 will take place from 28 April to 1 May.  TradeArabia News Service
Tourism Malaysia showcased at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 that recently took place in Dubai, the countrys latest attractions and destinations to attract more tourists from the Middle East.

The Malaysian delegation, comprising a good mix of 75 organisations, including hotels and resorts, travel agents, tourism product owners, and representatives from state tourism boards, was led by Chairman of Tourism Malaysia Datuk (Dr) Yasmin Mahmood, and accompanied by Dato' Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot, Deputy Secretary General (Management), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

The Malaysia Pavilion engaged with Middle Eastern buyers, generating interest while highlighting tourism products and services tailored to their specific needs and preferences, thus underscoring the importance placed on West Asia as a key source of tourists, especially during its summer vacation.

With the upcoming launch and celebration of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, we strive to attract more West Asia tourists. We recognise the immense potential of this market, not only in terms of outbound tourism but also trade and investment, said Mahmood.

We are confident that Malaysias position as a top destination for Muslim travellers, coupled with our intensified promotional efforts, will enable us to achieve our target.

In 2024, Malaysia aims to welcome 27.3 million international tourist arrivals and generate RM102.7 billion ($21.7 billion) in tourism receipts.  TradeArabia News Service
King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) was crowned one of the most advanced airports in air connectivity in the Middle East by the Airports Council International (ACI).

KAIA was placed third as the best airport in the field of air connectivity in the Middle East for 2023 during ACI's annual General Assembly Conference and Exhibition in Riyadh, reported SPA.

These results are an extension of the ongoing efforts of the Jeddah Airports Company, which manages and operates KAIA in using the latest technology, developing the infrastructure of the Saudi founders airport, upgrading the quality of services, and expanding the network of local and international air destinations to more than 125, it stated.

As part of its endeavour to achieve the national strategic objectives of civil aviation emanating from the Saudi Vision 2030, the Jeddah Airports Company continues to strengthen the position of KAIA as a global hub airport, and to provide a unique travel experience for all travellers.

These include tourists and visitors to the Grand Mosque of Makkah from around the world, with the airport achieving a record growth in operations of over 36%, said the report.

The airport also aims to increase the number of destinations to 135 by the end of 2024, achieving a growth of 6% compared to 2023.

Jeddah Airports Company CEO Engineer Mazen Johar said the company is looking at upgrading the level of services to realise the goals of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.

It aims to increase operational efficiency and raise the capacity of KAIA to hit 114 million passengers by 2030, he added.
The National PR Centre of Uzbekistan and musafir.com a leading UAE-based travel management company, have joined forces to initiate a series of promotional activities that will highlight Uzbekistan as a promising family destination.

This partnership seeks to showcase the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, gastronomy and warm hospitality that Uzbekistan has to offer to visitors from the United Arab Emirates.

Under this strategic alliance, the National PR Centre of Uzbekistan and musafir.com will work hand in hand to curate unique and enriching experiences for families, tailored to cater to a diverse range of interests and preferences.

musafir.com have curated a range of all-inclusive packages for Uzbekistan, including flights, top-rated hotels, airport transfers, breakfast, visa assistance, and much more for the upcoming Eid Al Adha and summer holidays.

These packages allow travellers to explore Uzbekistan with ease and convenience, helping them create unforgettable memories.

In addition to various digital and social activations, an on-ground mall promotional activity has been organised, including a scratch-and-win promotion at Mega Mall, Sharjah that will run from May 15-June 30. Participants have a chance to win exclusive prizes that celebrate the essence of Uzbekistan.

Moreover, all shoppers will automatically be entered into a raffle draw for the grand prize  an all-expenses-paid trip to Uzbekistan, sponsored by musafir.com

"We are thrilled to partner with musafir.com to promote Uzbekistan as a must-visit destination for families," said Miradilova Nigora, Head of the Department Foreign Projects, representing the National PR Centre of Uzbekistan.

"This strategic partnership will not only introduce travelers to the wonders of our country but also provide them with the opportunity to experience our rich culture and heritage firsthand."

"We at musafir.com are thrilled to be a part of this collaboration with the National PR Centre of Uzbekistan," remarked Raheesh Babu, COO of musafir.com.

"Through this partnership, we aim to showcase Uzbekistan's beauty and hospitality, inviting travelers to explore this hidden gem of Central Asia with us."  TradeArabia News Service
Etihad Airways procurement team has been honoured at the prestigious CIPS MENA Procurement Awards 2024, held in Riyadh, for its outstanding performance and innovative practices.

It won the Procurement Team of the Year for a Large Organisation for a project, titled Procurement Transformation Journey: From Transactional Process to Strategic Value Delivery, in recognition of the crucial role played by the team in driving cost efficiencies, ensuring supply chain resilience, and fostering sustainable procurement practices.

Cassie Mackie, VP Procurement & Supply Chain, said: "I am incredibly proud of our team. Their hard work, resilience, and dedication have truly paid off.

This award reflects our shared commitment to excellence and the values that define Etihad. We are grateful to the CIPS MENA Committee for recognising our efforts with this prestigious award.  TradeArabia News Service
Emirates and Viva Aerobus have signed an interline agreement to enhance connectivity for passengers travelling to Mexico.

The partnership will boost access to a host of points in Mexico, allowing Emirates customers to travel onwards from Mexico City to 21 domestic points, while enjoying the convenience of a single baggage policy utilising both airlines on a single ticket.

The interline agreement also unlocks more international routes for Emirates customers, providing 20 convenient flight options connecting six points in Mexico and some popular American cities.

Travellers booked on flights from Dubai to Mexico City can choose to fly to 21 additional domestic destinations such as Acapulco, Cancun, Guadalajara and Monterrey, to name a few.

The interline network also includes direct flights from US points including Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Orlando and Miami to select Mexican destinations.

Additionally, travellers from Mexico City can conveniently fly direct to Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York JFK or San Antonio.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates Deputy President, and Chief Commercial Officer, said: We are pleased to activate an interline partnership with Viva Aerobus to deepen our reach into Mexico, beyond Mexico City.

This new partnership provides our customers with more choice and enables them to seamlessly fly to a host of unique destinations in Mexico.

Emirates customers can also now fly directly between select US points and cities in Mexico. This new offering is in line with our Fly Better promise and convenience that can be felt by our customers when flying with us and we look forward to further developing the partnership in the future to elevate its benefits to our customers.

This opportunity allows passengers from the many Mexican cities to make a short stop in Mexico City, board an Emirates flight to reach the great city of Barcelona and/or to continue their trip to Dubai and beyond. All of this with the convenience of buying a single ticket, said Javier Suarez, Executive Vice President & Chief Planning and Alliances Officer at Viva Aerobus.

The Dubai-Mexico City route is served by the Boeing 777 aircraft in a two-class configuration.

Customers with itineraries that include interline flights from the select US points can look forward to superior levels of comfort and unique features of its A380 service on flights from Dubai to Los Angeles and Houston, before connecting to Viva Aerobus for flights to their final destinations in Mexico.

Viva Aerobus fleet comprises 83 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft with an average age of 5.45 years, making it the most modern fleet in Mexico and the 5th youngest in all of Latin America.

Mexico is an important part of the Emirates network, spanning almost 140 destinations. Emirates launched its services to Mexico City in 2019 and the airline currently provides daily flights to the Mexican capital via Barcelona, utilising the Boeing 777-200LR.

Emirates currently has commercial cooperation agreements in place with 161 interline, codeshare and intermodal partners.  TradeArabia News Service




Speakers:



Mr. Wang Zhengpu, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Hebei Provincial Committee and governor of Hebei province

Mr. Zhang Chengzhong, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Hebei Provincial Committee and executive vice governor of Hebei province

Ms. Jin Hui, vice governor of Hebei province

Mr. Zhao Dachun, vice governor of Hebei province

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

April 29, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today, we are holding the 13th press conference in the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." We have invited Mr. Wang Zhengpu, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Hebei Provincial Committee and governor of Hebei province, to brief you on forging ahead on a journey of high-quality development in the new era, and to take your questions. Also present today are Mr. Zhang Chengzhong, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Hebei Provincial Committee and executive vice governor of Hebei province; Ms. Jin Hui, vice governor of Hebei province; and Mr. Zhao Dachun, vice governor of Hebei province.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Wang for his introduction.

Wang Zhengpu:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. It's a great pleasure to meet you all. First of all, on behalf of the CPC Hebei Provincial Committee and Hebei provincial government, I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude to you for your long-term interest in and support for Hebei's development.

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, General Secretary Xi Jinping has paid 11 visits to Hebei, where he delivered important speeches and issued vital instructions. Firmly implementing the guiding principles of the instructions, the entire province has focused on the primary task of promoting high-quality development and the strategic task of creating a new development pattern. We have fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, and accelerated efforts to foster an economically prosperous and beautiful province. The province's GDP increased by 5.5% in 2023 and by 5.6% in the first quarter of this year. Major indicators have shown a steady increase, maintaining a favorable momentum.

Now, I'll offer a brief overview from five aspects:

First, we have emphasized innovation, striving to blaze new trails in advancing innovation-driven development. Taking scientific and technological innovation as a core factor in developing new quality productive forces, we have reinforced the principal role of enterprises in innovation, and worked to ensure policies such as additional tax deductions for R&D expenses benefit all eligible enterprises in Hebei, igniting a strong sense of innovation among them. We have established specialized teams to serve the "little giant" companies (novel and elite small and medium-sized enterprises that specialize in a niche market, boast cutting-edge technologies and show great potential). The proportion of industrial equipment connected to cloud platforms and the comprehensive computing index in Hebei rank among the top nationwide. Traditional industries such as steel and equipment manufacturing have made improvements in both quality and effectiveness, emerging industries like biomedicine and digital information have continued to grow, and future industries including aerospace information and satellite internet have been deployed rapidly, contributing to the rapid construction of a modern industrial system. Overall, Hebei is not giving up on traditional industries in its pursuit of innovative development. Meanwhile, it is also endeavoring to catch up in emerging and future industries.

Second, we have highlighted coordination, redoubling efforts to shoulder new responsibilities in promoting the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and building Xiong'an New Area according to high standards and quality requirements. With coordinated development deepening, the three regions have established a regular consultation mechanism, forming a tighter collaborative pattern. We have partnered with Beijing and Tianjin to develop six key industrial chains, including new energy and intelligent connected vehicles, as well as robots. More than 40,000 enterprises have transferred from Beijing and Tianjin, settling in Hebei. Last year, the volume of contracted technology transactions absorbed by Hebei from Beijing and Tianjin more than doubled, and a historic breakthrough was achieved in attracting second- and third-level subsidiaries of centrally administered state-owned enterprises (SOEs). As we all know, this year marks the 10th anniversary of General Secretary Xi Jinping proposing the strategy of the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. During the past decade, we have fully implemented a package of special support policies introduced by the central government and secured extraordinary achievements, with the Xiong'an New Area experiencing thriving growth. Construction has been expedited for headquarters of the first batch of relocated central SOEs, namely China Satellite Network Group, Sinochem Holdings, China Huaneng Group and Sinomine Resource Group, as well as Xiong'an campuses of the four universities of Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing University of Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University and the China University of Geosciences (Beijing). The Xiong'an branches of Beihai Kindergarten, Beijing Shijia Primary School, Beijing No. 4 High School and Beijing-based Xuanwu Hospital under Capital Medical University, all supported by Beijing, have entered into operation. The Xiong'an New Area Zhongguancun (ZGC) Science Park has been inaugurated, and noticeable results have been yielded with the series of visits to Xiong'an by a thousand ZGC enterprises, a hundred research institutes, a hundred renowned universities, and ten thousand university students in the capital. As a result, the popularity of Xiong'an is steadily increasing.

Third, we have pursued green development, endeavoring to achieve new breakthroughs in advancing the green transition in all respects. We have worked to make solid gains in the battle against pollution, and air quality has continued to improve. The water quality of Baiyangdian Lake has remained stable at Level III according to China's five-tier water assessment system, hastening the recovery of its crucial role as the "Kidney of North China." Strong efforts have been made to achieve Grade A environmental performance in key industries, with the number of steel enterprises in Hebei achieving Grade A for environmental performance ranking first nationwide, reaching 37. Integrated development of culture and tourism has been deepened, with total trips by tourists reaching 840 million last year. "So Close, So Beautiful, Spend Your Weekends in Hebei" has become a slogan for the province.

Fourth, we have enhanced opening-up, redoubling efforts to foster new advantages in deepening reform and opening-up. We have been committed to promoting development by prioritizing the improvement of the business environment, and have mobilized and made deployments for the province's "first meeting of the New Year" themed on business environment for two consecutive years. All enterprise- and people's wellbeing-related items subject to approval can now be handled in government service halls, while the 12345 hotline for government services has reached a stable connection rate of over 98%. Additionally, we have implemented "double-blind" (the information of both evaluation experts and bidders is not disclosed) evaluation reform in public bidding, enabling both SOEs and private businesses to enjoy the same treatment and engage in fair competition. The integration and upgrading of port resources has been promoted, with port cargo throughput surpassing 1.3 billion metric tons last year. The number of China-Europe freight trains has continued to rise.

Fifth, we have strived for shared benefits and made more efforts to achieve new progress in promoting common prosperity. Last year, we promptly relocated affected people when facing historically severe floods. We devoted maximum efforts to disaster rescue and relief, effectively protecting the lives and properties of our residents. We also made all-out efforts to focus on reconstruction after the disaster. We allocated compensation, rescue, and insurance funds in advance, ensuring those affected lived and worked in safe and warm places during the winter. Last year, our total grain output reached 76.2 billion jin (38.1 million metric tons), exceeding the target set by the country. Moreover, we have implemented rolling plans for projects related to people's livelihoods to raise public service standards in education, social security, elderly care, and healthcare. Nearly 900,000 urban jobs were added last year. Doing so has ensured our people feel a growing sense of fulfillment, happiness and security.

Going forward, Hebei will thoroughly implement the important guiding principles set by General Secretary Xi Jinping during his inspection of the province. We will work with solid steps to do a good job in each field, accelerate high-quality development, and strive for a new chapter for Hebei in pursuing Chinese modernization.

That is my brief introduction. Next, Zhang Chengzhong, Jin Hui, and Zhao Dachun, the three vice governors of Hebei, and I will answer your questions. Thank you, everyone.

Xing Huina:

Thank you for your introduction, Mr. Wang. The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the media agency you work for before asking your question.
Its sad. Its hurts me. Although she was not born in Arima, or from Arima, her heart was f
Hasely Crawford and Keshorn Walcott are among the household names in Trinidad and Tobago who made an impact through success at elite-level sport.

To date, Crawford and Walcott are the countrys only individual Olympic gold medallists. They serve as examples for young T&T athletes with big ambitions.

Some will become world-beaters; others will not. And thats the reality of sport. Many participate, but a relative few reach the elite level. Even fewer get to the top of the podium in global competition.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed comprehensively deepening reform to drive Chinese modernization during an inspection trip to the eastern economic powerhouse of Shandong Province.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, urged the coastal province to pursue reform-driven high-quality development and build itself into "a hub of high-level opening up."

Shandong, a frontier of China's reform and opening up, is now an industrial base and a major grain producer. With a population of 100 million, the province ranked third in GDP last year among all provincial-level regions in China. Shandong is also the birthplace of Confucius.

Xi's trip to Shandong, lasting from Wednesday to Friday, is the first local inspection he has made since the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau held a meeting on April 30.

It was decided at the meeting that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be held in Beijing in July, and that the session will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization.

"Strive for excellence in comprehensively deepening reform and advancing high-level opening up," Xi told local officials during the tour.

On Wednesday afternoon, Xi first visited Rizhao Port, where he observed automated container terminal operations.

The port, constructed after China launched the reform and opening-up drive in the late 1970s, has evolved into a modern facility over the decades, gaining valuable experience in upgrading and transforming traditional industries to foster new quality productive forces.

Later, Xi toured a coastal greenway in Rizhao to learn about local efforts in ecological restoration.

"The goal of advancing Chinese modernization is to make people's lives better and better," Xi said.

On Friday morning, he attended a meeting in Jinan, the provincial capital, to hear reports on the work of the province's Party and government authorities.

Xi underscored the need to fully unleash the potential of integrating the real economy with the digital economy and to develop new quality productive forces based on local conditions.

It was imperative to push ahead with the transition to the model of green and low-carbon development, boost sci-tech innovation in green and environmental protection sectors and spur the development of such industries, as well as build a world-class cluster of seaports to set the pace for modern marine economy development, he said.

Xi said Shandong should work actively to build international logistics corridors, be innovative in promoting the coordination of free trade zones, deeply integrate itself into the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, build competent platforms for significant international exchanges and cooperation, and play an important role in facilitating the dual circulation of domestic and international markets.

He urged efforts to vigorously promote the development of modern agriculture, develop the region into a higher-level "granary," and expand the paths toward common prosperity.

Xi stressed the need to facilitate dialogue and mutual understanding between civilizations and amplify Chinese culture's global reach and influence through platforms such as the International Confucius Cultural Festival.

He also highlighted the pivotal role of upholding the Party's leadership and strengthening work related to Party building in advancing Chinese modernization.

Senior officials including Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.

On Thursday morning, Xi met with senior officers of the Chinese People's Liberation Army troops stationed in Jinan.
Ahead of what is projected to be another scorching summer, the University of Arizona has received $108,000 in federal funding to collaborate with communities across the US to develop policies and action plans to both mitigate and manage heat.

The project is funded as part of a $2.25 million grant from the Department of Commerce and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration that will fund a new Center for Heat Resilient Communities. Its part of a partnership with UCLA and Arizona State University that will support efforts in 30 communities across the United States for the next three years.

Well be announcing, in hopefully the next couple of months, the process for communities to be selected into that cohort, said Ladd Keith, an associate professor of urban planning at the University of Arizona.

The creation of this new collaborative network marks a significant change in heat and climate policy in the United States, Keith said.

Until recently, the federal government has devoted more attention to other hazards like flooding, drought, wildfires, and sea level rise. Keith said. This is a really important investment by the federal government to ensure that our communities across the nation are resilient.

Heat is a public health issue just as serious as any other climate disaster, said Heidi Brown, professor of public health at the University of Arizona College of Public Health.

It doesnt take long to see the devastating impacts that its having, Brown said.

The public health dangers from heat are numerous, Brown said, with heat waves resulting in increased emergency room visits, increased deaths from viruses and mosquito borne illnesses, and an expected increased smoke inhalation from wildfires and related respiratory distress.

A lot of these deaths that occurred from related illness and other adverse outcomes of climate change are preventable. Brown said. We have the obligation to try to understand these diseases and combat them in order to promote health and well being.

Some heat prone cities like Phoenix have begun to plan for heat mitigation, but Keith worries that most cities still lack the capacity or resources to engage in comprehensive heat planning.

The programs and guidance developed by the Center for Heat Resilience to help selected communities create heat resilience strategies will rely heavily on ongoing research conducted by Brown and others at the University of Arizona.

Well be drawing on that background, Keith said. And supporting this cohort of communities across the country on how to better organize and coordinate their cooling center efforts.

Keith said that the role of the Center for Heat Resilient Communities will be to translate the teams knowledge and research into an actionable framework that communities can use.

Developing a comprehensive heat resilient communities framework, will enable and support communities to go through this framework as is appropriate to their local condition, Keith said.

The key to successfully implementing the centers community efforts will be the three way communication between researchers, the federal government, and the participating communities. That part of that collaboration will include advising federal partners on how they can better invest in heat related efforts across the United States, Keith said.

This is about working with communities and organizations that are trying to figure out what works, Brown said. The way Arizona deals with heat is very different than the way Chicago or Washington state is going to.

The Center for Heat Resilient Communities will also have a strong focus on supporting disadvantaged and underserved communities. The Center will be partnering with the Udall Center For Studies In Public Policys Native Nations Institute, along with tribal communities, to create heat mitigation and management solutions that respect tribal sovereignty and knowledge.

This program is really driven by Bidens justice 40 initiatives, and that really is an effort to put federal funds into marginalized communities, said Stephanie Carroll, Associate Professor in the College of Public Health and Associate Research Professor with the Udall Center For Studies In Public Policy and its Native Nations Institute at the University of Arizona.

My goal is to make sure that folks know about tribal communities and tribal nations rules as a community. Carroll said. I think were seeing that knowledge rise, but indigenous peoples here in the US have been marginalized for so long.

One of Carrolls primary focuses is the collection, and open access of data for indigenous communities, which means establishing proper attribution protocols, and permissions for use and reuse of data.

Carroll also plans to incorporate indigenous heat mitigation and survival knowledge and education surrounding tribal rights into the Centers program. By including diverse knowledge and voices, Carrol said the Center for Heat Resilient Communities can produce better science.

One of the eventual goals for researchers is to compile all of the guidance and key lessons learned into publicly available documents on heat.gov where it can be accessed by anyone for use in their own city.

I think the center will really bring more attention to the fact that we need more heat policy planning and governance and more of these formalized frameworks to really address heat seriously, Keith said.
Cao Guangjing, former vice governor of central China's Hubei Province, has been sentenced to life in prison on charges of accepting bribes and divulging inside information.

The sentence was announced by a court in the city of Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, on Friday.

The court found that between 2004 and 2022, Cao had taken undue advantage of his various posts, including those as a senior executive of the China Three Gorges Corporation and as the vice governor of Hubei, to provide help for others in matters such as business operation, project contracting, and project development. In return, he accepted over 216 million yuan (about 30.4 million U.S. dollars) in cash and gifts.

Also, in 2021, when Cao served as Hubei vice governor and led the restructuring of a listed company, he disclosed inside information to others, enabling them to profit from buying and selling the company's stocks, gaining over 10 million yuan, according to the court.

The court sentenced Cao to life imprisonment and ruled that he would also be deprived of political rights for life, and all of his personal property would be confiscated. All his illegal gains would be recovered and turned over to the state treasury.

The court said Cao's act of bribery involved an especially huge amount of bribes and the circumstances of his disclosure of inside information were particularly severe.

However, Cao had voluntarily turned himself in, showed remorse, and had been cooperative in returning the illegal gains, which had been recovered in full. These facts were taken into consideration when handing down the sentence.
Chinese investors are strengthening their positions in Vietnamese enterprises across gas, electricity, and food retail sectors by enhancing share acquisitions, and are continuing to pump capital into development projects in Vietnam.

Thus, Chinese investors are venturing into new industries instead of adhering to traditional sectors of footwear and apparel.

Zhou Hao, a member of the board of directors of PetroVietnam Gas City Investment and Development JSC, recently registered to buy 4.7 million shares in the company until June 20.

Zhou expects to spend approximately VND31.5 billion (US$1.2 million) on those shares.

Once the deal is complete, Zhou will hold a 24.9 percent stake in PetroVietnam Gas City.

PetroVietnam Gas City is under the umbrella of PetroVietnam Gas Joint Stock Corporation and boasts the leadership of several Chinese nationals.

According to the companys financial report, it generated net revenues of over VND90 billion ($3.5 million) in the first quarter of this year, up 15 percent year on year.

After deducting costs and taxes, the firm suffered a net loss of nearly VND5 billion ($195,852), the heaviest over the past four years.

It had sustained a cumulative loss of VND46 billion ($1.8 million) as of the end of last quarter.

In the power sector, Huong Linh Fresh Energy Development JSC, another Chinese-invested company, is seeking a 61.3-percent stake worth VND255 billion ($10 million) in the Huong Linh 3 wind farm project in Quang Tri Province, north-central Vietnam.

Sungrow Renewables from China also announced that it would develop wind and solar power projects in Vietnam with a total estimated investment of over $1 billion.

Vietnams largest retail group, Mobile World, has also reported that it completed transferring five percent of the total shares in its grocery chain Bach Hoa Xanh to Beijing-headquartered CDH Investments.

Bach Hoa Xanh said pr from the deal, reported at VND1.8 trillion ($72.17 million), would be used for business development.

Thomas Lanyi, director for Southeast Asia at CDH Investments, said Vietnam is a priority market for CDH thanks to its economic prospects and macro-economy.

In addition to share acquisitions, many Chinese enterprises are spending big to develop factories and projects in order to access the Vietnamese market.

One of these companies is Beijing-based BOE Technology Group Co. Ltd., which has received an investment certificate for a project to produce computer and TV screens and electronic display boards in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City.

It has already launched a similar project in Dong Nai Province, also bordering Ho Chi Minh City.

In the auto industry, Geleximco Group and Omoda & Jaecoo Automobile Co. Ltd. under Chinas Chery Automobile inked a contract to build a factory in Thai Binh Province, northern Vietnam.

Chinese e-bike firm Yadea is constructing its second factory in Bac Giang Province, also in the north.

Over the past two years, Chinese auto firms such as Haval, Wuling Mini EV, and Haima have also made forays into the Vietnamese market.

Binh Duong Province in southern Vietnam is a magnet for Chinese investors with over 1,600 projects carrying a combined price tag of over $10 billion.

Meanwhile, Bac Ninh Province in the north issued investment certificates for 105 foreign direct investment projects in the first quarter of this year, with over half of these projects backed by Chinese firms.

According to a report by the Ministry of Planning and Investment, Chinese investors had over 4,400 operational projects with total registered capital of more than $27.6 billion in Vietnam as of last quarter.

China ranked sixth out of the 145 countries and territories making investments in the Southeast Asian country.

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The Vietnamese government will provide cash support for large FDI enterprises and domestic firms leading key economic sectors in the country during the 2024 fiscal year.

The government offered the support in a draft decree on the establishment, management, and use of investment support funds which will be issued next month to respond to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Developments initiative of a global minimum corporate tax rate of 15 percent for multinational firms with turnover above a 750-million-euro (US$780-million) threshold from early this year.

The global minimum tax imposition and the global investment shift have forced the governments of countries to come up with support policies to retain large investors.

Many large FDI firms have surveyed and studied investment opportunities in Vietnam over the past few months.

However, many of them have shifted to other markets due to Vietnams shortage of detailed regulations on investment support.

The expansion of large hi-tech investment projects of giants, such as Samsung, LG, SMC as well as producers of accessories for Apple, IBM, Sisco, Foxconn, Compal, and Quanta has shown signs of stagnancy as they await clarification on Vietnams policies.

As a result, the Ministry of Planning and Investment said measures were needed to respond to the impact of the global minimum tax, retain tech giants, and attract new projects.

The governments support policies also aim at strategic local enterprises which are responsible for cementing the countrys economic position.

In November last year, the lawmaking National Assembly issued a resolution asking the government to stabilize the investment environment and attract strategic investors and multinational groups.

LEGO is completing its factory as scheduled and has plans to recruit personnel for the factory's operation. Photo: T.T.D. / Tuoi Tre

Nguyen Van Toan, vice-chairman of Vietnam's Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises, said foreign investors play diplomatic roles, besides studying investment opportunities in Vietnam.

Therefore, solutions to support investors and improve the local investment environment should be employed faster and more effectively, Toan added.

For high-quality FDI investors that are making large investments, the country should use revenue from the global minimum tax to support them.

The country may call on domestic firms to provide auxiliary products in a bid to serve FDI partners.

To lure new investors, Vietnam should focus on offering tax incentives and training human resources for key sectors, such as the semiconductor industry.

It is important to develop local economic groups strong enough to cooperate with FDI firms, Toan suggested.

Moreover, Vietnam needs to help local enterprises develop research and development centers.

Production lines at Samsung Electronics Vietnam Co. Ltd. in Bac Ninh Province, northern Vietnam. Photo: Duc Anh / Tuoi Tre

According to Dr. Pham Hung Tien, deputy director of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation in Vietnam, only Vietnams textile and garment sector is capable of competing in the global market.

Its strengths are the connection among enterprises and the support of localities, universities, and research units.

This is a key for the sectors success and a lesson for other sectors.

It will be hard to get success if the country just focuses on the benefits of some enterprises. It is more important to establish value chains or increase the number of phases in existing value chains of which Vietnamese firms can take charge.

The country should focus on not only FDI firms investment models but also local enterprises cooperation demands, the expert suggested.

Rolling out red carpets for foreign investors is not enough, Tien noted, adding that Vietnam needs to set up hi-tech industrial parks and clusters which will operate like ecosystems in certain sectors, such as mechanical engineering, automaking, and semiconductors.

Do Thien Anh Tuan, a lecturer at Ho Chi Minh City-based Fulbright University Vietnam, said investment support funds should be accessible to all eligible domestic groups and FDI firms.

Vietnam should not rely solely on enterprises' investment capital to offer preferential policies and may consider revoking incentives if investors fail to meet their commitments.

Investors need to pledge to create value for Vietnam, Tuan added.

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Vietnams retail revenue has increased tenfold over the past decade, but its share of the total market lags behind its neighbors, according to an industry expert.

The comment was made by Nguyen Anh Duc, chairman of the Vietnam Retailers Association, at the 2024 regional conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), held from May 21 to 23 in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hosted by Vietnamese retail giant Saigon Co.op in coordination with the ICA, the event attracted delegates from Japan, India, Indonesia, Iran, South Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, and the Philippines, among others.

Over the past ten years, Vietnams modern retail sales have increased tenfold to US$26 billion from $2.6 billion, but its modern retail market share only accounts for about 22 percent of the total market, compared to the 90, 65, and 40 percent in Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia, respectively, Duc elaborated.

In general, Vietnams modern retail is growing but still lags behind other countries, the expert commented.

Still, the future looks bright for the sector, with Vietnamese retailers focusing on developing new products and taking advantage of e-commerce platforms to diversify sales channels and boost revenue generation.

Reports show that 30 percent of the revenue of the world's top 500 companies comes from new products, while the rate is 20 percent in Asia and only 10 percent in Vietnam, the expert explained, adding that Vietnamese retailers should put a heavy focus on introducing new products to the market.

He also noted that some new trends have taken shape on the market, such as a decrease in household sizes and an increase in health-focused products.

According to Vu Anh Khoa, chairman of Saigon Co.op, trade among collective economic organizations both regionally and globally has become increasingly dynamic.

This trend presents opportunities for Saigon Co.op and other Vietnamese cooperatives to enhance cooperation with their counterparts, explore new markets, and boost sales.

We hope that through the seminars, cooperatives in Vietnam and other countries will set up connections to bring their high-quality products to the market, Khoa said.

For example, Saigon Co.op recently cooperated with a number of South Korean cooperatives to export rice paper to and import instant noodles from South Korea, the chairman stated.

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 Flash

The Group of Seven (G7) finance meeting kicked off in Italy late on Thursday, with talks among G7 finance ministers and central bank governors expected to focus on global economic trends, financial support for Ukraine and multilateral development banking.

According to Italy's rotating presidency of the group, the talks among G7 finance ministers and central bank governors will take place mostly on May 24-25.

Italian Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti and U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen met behind closed doors Thursday afternoon, ahead of an opening ceremony scheduled in the evening, local media reported.

The G7 talks in Stresa in northern Italy will be attended by EU Commissioner for Economic Affairs Paolo Gentiloni and President of the Eurogroup Paschal Donohoe, along with heads of global organizations and ministers of non-G7 countries invited for their relevance to the topics under discussion, the Italian presidency said.

The G7 comprises Canada, the United States, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Japan, plus top representatives of the EU institutions.
The German Embassy in Hanoi, in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut Hanoi, will organize Career Day  Explore Your Future, an event dedicated to showcasing opportunities for vocational training, work, and study in Germany, this weekend.

Career Day  Explore Your Future aims to provide valuable insights and opportunities for those looking to build their careers in Germany, alongside promoting fair and ethical migration practices, the embassy said in a press release on Wednesday.

The event is expected to be an excellent platform for prospective students, skilled workers, and anyone interested in vocational training to connect with experts and potential employers.

The Career Day will provide comprehensive information and support to individuals interested in pursuing vocational training, employment as skilled workers, or higher education in Germany.

It will feature contributions from the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (German Development Cooperation - GIZ), the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam (AHK Vietnam), the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), and the Goethe-Institut Hanoi.

These organizations will present a range of free-of-charge programs aimed at facilitating a smooth transition to a career in Germany.

Key highlights of the event include personal consultation sessions, interactive workshops, visa application consultations, study information, job interviews, and networking.

In addition to these activities, two panel discussions will be held in the Goethe-Instituts hall, titled 'The New Skilled Immigration Act: Changes, Challenges, and Hands-on Experience' and 'Fair and Ethical Recruiting.'

Panelists will include representatives from the German Embassy, the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam, the Goethe-Institut, GIZ, the Department of Overseas Labor of Vietnam/Department of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs, Vivantes Forum fur Senioren (nursing homes), and the Landesentwicklungsgesellschaft Thuringen (State Development Corporation of Thuringia).

Following the discussions, there will be a Q&A session for attendees to engage directly with the experts.

Career Day  Explore Your Future will take place from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday at the Goethe-Institut Hanoi at 56-58-60 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in Ba Dinh District.

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Leaders of many countries and territories, including Russia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Palestine, Sri Lanka, and Mongolia, as well as United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres have sent congratulatory messages and letters to To Lam on his election as the state president of Vietnam and to Tran Thanh Man on being elected the countrys top legislator.

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the dynamic development of the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership and expressed his wish that Lam, as the state president of Vietnam, will continue promoting the two countries bilateral cooperation in all fields for the benefits of both nations and security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his desire to further strengthen and deepen the friendship and long-term cooperation between the two countries, both bilaterally and as close partners in ASEAN.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State of Palestine and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization Mahmoud Abbas, and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena also sent letters of congratulations to the new state president of Vietnam.

In addition, Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh and Chairman of the Mongolian Parliament Gombojav Zandanshatar extended their congratulations to Vietnamese State President To Lam and NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

The Mongolian leaders affirmed the long-standing partnership between Vietnam and Mongolia as well as their readiness to work closely with Vietnamese leaders to strengthen the two sides bilateral relations and traditional friendship in all aspects while ensuring the benefits of both the Mongolian and Vietnamese peoples.

The Mongolian leaders also invited the two new Vietnamese leaders to visit Mongolia to elevate the two countries bilateral relations to a new height on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic ties this year.

Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres offered his congratulations to To Lam on his election as Vietnams state president and expressed his desire to early meet the Vietnamese head of state, according to phone talks between the UN secretary general and Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, on Thursday.

Guterres conveyed his belief that under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the state, and State President Lam, Vietnamese people will obtain more achievements in all spheres, especially in the implementation of sustainable development goals.

He affirmed that the UN will continue to be a reliable partner of Vietnam during its development journey.

The UN secretary general spoke highly of Vietnams socio-economic development achievements and the countrys significant contributions to deal with global issues at UN forums.

Earlier, leaders of Laos, China, and Cambodia had extended their congratulations to To Lam on his election as State President of Vietnam.

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The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, according to the ministrys deputy spokesman Doan Khac Viet.

He made the remark during the ministrys regular press briefing on Thursday afternoon in response to reporters inquiry about Vietnams reaction to the Chinese military drills encircling Taiwan.

Vietnam has repeatedly expressed its stance on the cross-Strait relations, Viet said.

We hope that peace, stability, and cooperation in the cross-Strait relations would be maintained for the interests of the region, the world, and the people across the Strait, the Vietnamese diplomat stated.

On Thursday morning, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) announced that it launched two-day joint military drills surrounding the island of Taiwan from 7:45 am the same day.

The exercises, named Joint Sword-2024A,' are taking place in the Taiwan Strait, the north, south, and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin.

A map shows the area of Chinas military drills around Taiwan. Photo: CCTV-News

According to the PLA, the drills would involve military services including the army, navy, air force, and rocket force of the theater command, focusing on joint sea-air combat-readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes on key targets.

The drills are aimed at testing the joint real combat capabilities of the PLA forces around the island of Taiwan.

Mainland China launched the PLA military drills three days after Lai Ching-te, who was denounced by Beijing as a separatist," was sworn in as Taiwans new leader.

The drills serve as a strong punishment for the separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces and a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces, the PLA stressed.

This is the second time in May that Vietnam has expressed its view on the cross-Strait ties.

On Monday this week, the foreign affairs ministrys spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang reiterated Vietnams consistent stance to uphold the One China policy and develop no state-level relations with Taiwan, in reply to reporters queries on Vietnams viewpoint on Chinas One China policy amid the context that Lai Ching-te, a member of Taiwans Democratic Progressive Party, became the islands new leader earlier on the same day.

On the basis of steadfastly implementing the One China policy under which Taiwan is an integral part of Chinas territory, Vietnam maintains and develops people-to-people and non-governmental relations with Taiwan in various fields including economics, trade, investment, science and technology, culture, and education, but does not develop any state-level ties with Taiwan, Hang underscored.

Vietnam respects the principle of non-interference in each others internal affairs and believes that peace, stability, and cooperation in the Taiwan Strait is crucial for both the region and the global community, the spokesperson stated.

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Vietnam does not agree with recent social media statements that criticize Cambodian leaders and undermine the good sentiments between the Vietnamese and Cambodian people, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Spokeswoman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang on Thursday addressed Cambodias request to join a probe into social media accounts allegedly run by Vietnamese citizens that have made inappropriate posts regarding Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.

We do not agree with provocative opinions and comments that undermine the good relations between the people of Vietnam and Cambodia. They also offend the two countries leaders, Hang announced.

Hang also stressed that such statements do not represent the stance of the Vietnamese government and people.

Based on their good neighborliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive and long-term cooperation, relevant agencies from both countries are applying practical and effective measures to help their people and future generations clearly and fully understand the bilateral relationship in order to continue strengthening their bond.

In that spirit, we believe that the two countries will continue sharing information in many fields, including the Funan Techo canal project, as well as studies on its transboundary impacts, thereby ensuring the harmonious interests of riverine countries and their people, and effectively and sustainably managing and using the Mekong Rivers water resources, stated Hang.

On May 20, Hun Sen said on his Facebook page that many comments, allegedly from Vietnamese citizens, had been posted on his TikTok account with insulting content related to the Funan Techo canal project.

Hun Sen then asked Cambodia authorities to coordinate with Vietnam to identify those who offended him.

I request cooperation to enquire and prevent bad people from breaking the relationship between our two countries, Khmer Times quoted Hun Sen as saying.

He added that he was not certain whether the insulting comments came from Vietnamese citizens, or if they came from elsewhere.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea later met Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia Nguyen Huy Tang the same day to suggest that the Cambodian and Vietnamese governments cooperate to uncover the identities of those who posted "the hostile content" so as to prevent any attempt to undermine the traditional friendship and good will between the leaders and peoples of both countries.

The response of the Vietnamese foreign ministry's spokesperson on Thursday marked the fourth time that Vietnam has spoken out regarding the Funan Techo canal project, which was recently announced by the Cambodian Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

In all of these responses, Vietnams constant message has been that it treasures its relationship with Cambodia and supports the development achievements of its neighbor.

Regarding the Funan Techo canal, Vietnam has expressed its respect for Cambodias legitimate interests, but requested that Cambodia continue to coordinate closely with Vietnam and other countries in the Mekong River Commission to share information about the project and to fully assess its impacts on water resources and the eco-environment of the Mekong sub-region.

In recent times, the Cambodian mass media have continuously run news reports regarding the canal project, showing Cambodian leaders determination to implement the project that they said will benefit not only people in Cambodia but also those in other countries.

According to the project, 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.

As per its design, this canal will be 100 meters wide upstream, 80 meters wide downstream, and 5.4 meters deep upon completion.

The project will be implemented by Chinese contractors under the build-operate-transfer (BOT) method, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said recently.

Construction is expected to start in late 2024, carrying an estimated cost of about US$1.7 billion.

It is scheduled to open in 2028.

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A fire broke out at a boarding house in Trung Hoa Ward under Cau Giay District, Hanoi in the wee hours of Friday, leaving 14 people dead and three others injured, a local police official told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper at 6:49 am.

A leader of the Cau Giay District Police said the fire started at about 0:30 am at the three-story building located in a narrow alley on Trung Kinh Street.

A while later, black smoke covered the building accompanied by many explosions.

A leader of the Transport Hospital JSC informed that the hospital admitted three victims of the blaze, including 80-year-old N.T.K., 30-year-old N.T.X., and 35-year-old N.T.K., in the first hours on Friday.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha (R, 2nd) and many other officials at the scene of the fire. Photo: Vietnam Government Portal

Receiving the news, local firefighters reached the scene of the incident with many fire trucks.

The fire was completely put out at 1:26 am and police officers and firefighters left the scene at 6:50 am.

Tran Sy Thanh, chairman of the administration in Hanoi, told Tuoi Tre that the city had tasked the relevant units with investigating the cause of the fire and employing measures to deal with the consequences of the incident.

Vice-chairman of the National Assembly Tran Quang Phuong (in a blue shirt) reaches the scene of the incident. Photo: Danh Trong / Tuoi Tre

The house is about 100 square meters large including a yard and two blocks, with one block housing the owners family and another 12-room block for rent.

There were 24 people inside the house at the time of the fire, including seven members of the owners family and 17 room renters.

The conflagration damaged many motorbikes, bicycles, and electric bikes in the yard.

Local residents use fire extinguishers to put out the blaze. Photo: Hoai An / Tuoi Tre

A firefighter at the scene of the fire. Photo: Supplied

The fire damages many belongings and vehicles. Photo: Pham Dung / Tuoi Tre

The body of a dead person is moved out of the house. Photo: Minh Thanh / Tuoi Tre

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The transport authority in Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam has banned cars of all kinds from entering a road in the buffer zone of U Minh Thuong District, which has been battered by unusually severe land subsidence, the districts administration announced on Thursday afternoon.

The traffic ban was imposed on Road 965 to ensure human and traffic safety, and will be in effect from Tuesday until further notice.

Local residents have been asked to take the districts main road and Road 965C to transport farm produce and other commodities using rudimentary vehicles to approach National Highway 63.

Residents can also choose Road 965B to carry goods to the districts coastal route.

According to the U Minh Thuong District administration, land subsidence has hit more than 445 sections of road in An Minh Bac Commune and Minh Thuan Commune, affecting a combined 11 kilometers of roadway and damaging 42 homes.

To mitigate the destruction, authorities have cordoned off locations struck by land subsidence, set up 39 temporary routes, and installed 134 street lights.

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On Sundays 60 Minutes, Tara Brown unravels Byron Bays underbelly while Adam Hegarty reports on a push to ban social media amongst kids.

Messing with Minds

How much more evidence is needed before the message is fully understood that social media is a serious health hazard for young people? Leading researchers like world-renowned U.S. psychologist Professor Jonathan Haidt warn that its messing with our kids minds, and in an increasing number of tragic cases, its killing them. Of course the tech giants who control the social media platforms downplay the dangers, but their views are compromised by the enormous profits they make by having children spend hours and hours on their smartphones. On 60 Minutes, Adam Hegarty investigates calls to do what to many was once unthinkable: Ban social media for the young.

Reporter: Adam Hegarty

Producers: Anne Worthington, Sheree Gibson

Death in Byron

It might not be the lifestyle for everyone, but 25-year-old Jackson Stacker loved his happy-go-lucky existence. He lived in the moment, thriving on not knowing what each day would bring. Home was a van, and wherever he parked it was where he slept. Without a care, Jackson was roaming around Byron Bay in July 2021 when one night he disappeared. A month later he was found dead. Police said it was likely that he had taken his own life, but his distraught family believe something far more sinister happened. As Tara Brown reports, thats because his skull was discovered 13 metres from his body, and there was a 30-centimetre hunting knife embedded in his chest.

Reporter: Tara Brown

Producer: Serge Negus

8:30pm Sunday on Nine
A former Married At First Sight participant has pleased not guilty to a drug trafficking allegation.

Sebastian Guilhaus, who featured in the 2021 season, pleaded not guilty to trafficking in a commercial quantity of a controlled drug, in South Australias District Court today.

News.com.au reports his Croydon home was raided by police in July last year, during which officers allegedly seized about 1kg of meth with a street value of about $90,000.

On MAFS personal trainer Guilhaus was matched with Lizzie Sobinoff, but the couple split in 2021.

A trial is set for October.
Nine has appointed Jo Barton as Director of Sales  Sydney, succeeding Nikki Rooke, who replaced the departing Richard Hunwick.

She will lead Nines Sydney sales team, overseeing Total TV, Total Audio and Total Publishing platforms.

Currently Group Business Director, she has been at Nine since 2016 and has previously worked with some of the worlds largest media businesses including BBC Worldwide, EMAP UK and Australia; ACP and Bauer Magazines and News Corp Australia.

Michael Stephenson, Nines Chief Sales Officer said: Given our unique set of market leading assets, all of our teams must be cross platform athletes, experts in helping our partners connect with their audiences across our platforms. Jo has a proven track record in helping Australias largest brands to use our assets to deliver real business outcomes.

With her TV, radio, publishing and digital experience shes ready to lead the largest sales team in the country. Im proud that once again we are able to promote from within, testament to our ongoing commitment to improving the capability of our entire team.

I am really looking forward to implementing the Nine sales strategy across the Sydney market, working closely with our team and our partners to create integrated cross platform solutions which deliver real business outcomes, she said.

Its a massive year for Nine, and I am privileged to lead such a passionate, professional and driven team.
Dannii Minogue is returning to host I Kissed a Boy, the UKs first ever gay dating show.

The format sees 10 singles, who are matched up, meet for the first time with a kiss. No small talk. No swiping on apps. Just one kiss to test out their chemistry straight away.

Dannii Minogue says I am so excited that Ill be back in Italy to play cupid. I cant wait to meet the next cast when the Masseria doors open There are so many diverse and important stories yet to tell. And be sure that Ill have the party started for a wonderful summer of love.

Nasfim Haque, Head of Content for BBC Three says; I am thrilled to have this innovative, ground-breaking format return to BBC Three. I Kissed A Boys success is testament to the channels unwavering dedication to producing content that both entertains and educates.

David Brindley, Executive Producer for Twofour says; We couldnt be more thrilled that the BBC will be returning to I Kissed A Boy. The I Kissed A world is a joyful, uplifting, and entertaining new take on the reality genre, and the entire team at Twofour  who are so passionate about making this show  cant wait to see what this next series holds, aside from Danniis second-to-none fashion choices, theyre guaranteed

I Kissed A Boy garnered widespread acclaim for its commitment to diversity and LGBTQ+ representation with Minogue later hosting I Kissed a Girl.

The series screened in Australia on 10Play.
PLA drills serve as resolute punishment of "Taiwan independence" provocations: mainland spokesperson

Xinhua) 08:59, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The ongoing military drills conducted by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) around Taiwan Island serve as a resolute punishment of the provocative statements by the leader of the Taiwan region, a mainland spokesperson said.

The drills are also a stern warning to external forces that support "Taiwan independence" and interfere in China's internal affairs, as well as a just act to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, in response to a media query.

The mainland will never tolerate nor leave any room for activities seeking "Taiwan independence," Chen said.

"If the separatists of 'Taiwan independence' persist in their reckless actions, we will take resolute measures to crush their attempts and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said.

It should be noted that all the countermeasures are aimed at separatist activities and external interference instead of the compatriots of Taiwan, he said.

Chen called on compatriots in Taiwan to firmly stand on the right side of history, be upright Chinese who discern right from wrong and act with righteousness, and join hands with their mainland counterparts to oppose "Taiwan independence" and external interference and safeguard the common homeland of the Chinese nation.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
 Flash

Vladimir Putin attends an inauguration ceremony at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree Thursday on the seizure of U.S. properties in response to the potential confiscation of Russian assets by the United States.

According to the decree, the Russian Central Bank and Russian entities will have the right to seek legal redress in court in case of the unlawful seizure of properties by the United States.

A special commission of the Russian government will identify U.S. assets or properties, including movable and immovable U.S. properties in Russia, securities, shares in Russian enterprises, and property rights, which can be used to compensate for losses incurred.

The government has been given four months to introduce amendments to Russian legislation to facilitate the implementation of the decree.
Florian Heidenreich heeft versie 3.26 van Mp3tag uitgebracht. Met dit programma kunnen de metatags van de gangbaarste muziekformaten worden aangepast. Ondersteuning is aanwezig voor ID3v1, ID3v2.3, ID3v2.4, iTunes MP4, WMA, Vorbis Comments en APE-tags. Verder kunnen de bestandsnamen aan de hand van die tags worden aangepast en kunnen playlists worden gegenereerd. De releasenotes voor deze uitgave zien er als volgt uit:

When importing via Discogs or MusicBrainz, it was often difficult to decide which release to pick from the list of Tag Sources query results. Some had the correct cover, but for many, it often was a back-and-forth to decide which release to pick. This new version now adds support for Cover Thumbnails in the list of query results. You can even hover over the small thumbnail image to see a bigger version.

Another often requested feature was a quick way of copying a textual representation of the selected files to the clipboard. There is this workaround of using Mp3tag's export feature, but it's often too powerful for the task at hand. This new version now offers Edit  Copy as Text... 4 where you can use a format string to select what to copy to the clipboard.

Last, this release fixes a lot of long-standing bugs. Beyond that, there is a significant increase in performance when writing tags via the Tag Panel, Extended Tags, or the converters. It's quite nice!

Discogs Tag Sources: added column for `BARCODE` to list of query results.

Discogs Tag Sources: added support for importing `BARCODE`.

Discogs Tag Sources: added support for importing `ALBUMARTISTSORT`.

Added support for copying textual representation of files to clipboard.

Added larger preview when hovering above cover thumbnails in list of Tag Sources query results. (#64614)

Added support for cover thumbnails in list of Tag Sources query results.

Tag Sources confirmation dialog now uses stable sorting when clicking on column headers in Tracks list.

Refined thread-locking strategy when writing tags to significantly increase performance. (#64634)

Discogs Tag Sources: `CATALOGNUMBER` set to `none` is now ignored.

Discogs Tag Sources: multiple media per release are now separated by comma.

Added caching of cover previews to prevent redundant image downloads when navigating back to list of query results.

Adding cover art now uses the actual cover data to determine image file format

Reapplying current filter expression via manage filter dialog did clear the filter field. (#64758)

Tag Sources Quick button and keyboard shortcut did not skip search dialog for Tag Sources that use the new search dialog with possibly multiple search criteria. (#64726)

Discogs Tag Sources: further improvements at detecting implicit artists for subtracks. (#64385)

Discogs Tag Sources: release titles containing hyphens were not displayed correctly in query results list. (#64680)

Columns for Tag Sources with cover thumbnails were offset by one on first use (since v3.25c). (#64678)

Runtime error when dismissing the dialog with Tag Sources query results before all cover previews are downloaded (since v3.25c). (#64677)

Discogs Tag Sources: subtracks with implicit artist from index track were not identified correctly. (#49688, #64385)

Discogs Tag Sources: comma used as join separator had extra whitespace prefix.

Renaming directories via action Format value stopped working on some systems (since v3.25a). (#64532)

Renaming directories via action Format value or 'Convert > Tag - Tag' with `_DIRECTORY` resulted in inconsistent File List state when Overwrite, Skip, or Keep Both was used at collisions. (#56247)

Text in filter field was displayed as selected and highlighted on startup, despite filter field not being focused. (#53067) instead of relying on the file extension.

Empty temporary file was not removed after error due to invalid file structure when writing MP4 files. (#59387)

Moving files via Edit  Move... removed skipped files from File List despite them not being moved. (#63232)

JSON-related functions `json_foreach` and `json_foreach_end` of web sources framework reverted back to root object and not to previously selected object. (#64047)
By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Lobbying groups representing airlines, hotels and retailers have urged European Union tech regulators to ensure that Google takes their views into account, and not just large intermediaries, when making changes to comply with landmark tech rules.

Airlines for Europe group that has Air France KLM and British Airways owner IAG> as members, hotel group Hotrec, European Hotel Forum, EuroCommerce, Ecommerce Europe and Independent Retail Europe had in March expressed their concerns about the impact of the new rules.

EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) imposes a list of dos and don'ts on Google and five other tech giants aimed at giving users more choice and rivals a better chance to compete, but the groups voiced concerns the the adjustments could hurt their revenues.

In a joint letter to EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager and EU industry chief Thierry Breton dated May 22 they said their worries have mounted since then.

"Our industries have serious concerns that currently considered solutions and requirements for implementing the DMA could further increase discrimination," they wrote.

"Initial observations indicate that these changes risk severely depleting direct sales revenues of companies by giving more prominence to powerful online intermediaries due to the preferential treatment they would receive," they said.

The Commission, which is now investigating Google for possible DMA breaches, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Google, which in a March blog post said changes to search results give large intermediaries and aggregators more traffic and less for hotels, airlines, merchants and restaurants, had no immediate comment.

"We are concerned that the non-compliance investigation refers only to the need to treat third-party services in a fair and non-discriminatory manner, without any acknowledgement of European businesses that also offer their services on Google," the groups said.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Tomasz Janowski)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to the Czech Republic and Moldova next week, the U.S. State Department said in a statement on Friday, where he will attend an informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Prague.

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien told reporters that the meeting will prepare decisions to be made at a July NATO summit in Washington.

"We do not anticipate that there'll be an invitation for Ukraine to join NATO, but we think there will be a substantial show of support for Ukraine as it works to win its war," O'Brien said.

This will include NATO support in building Ukraine's future force and efforts to help the country make reforms needed for Ukraine to join the European Union and NATO, he said.

O'Brien said Washington was focused on ensuring that Ukraine is able to succeed both on the battlefield and when it decides to make peace with Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that Ukraine peace talks need to be renewed, but that Russia would only deal with legitimate leaders in Kyiv.

Putin also said talks must reflect "today's realities on the ground".

"We do not see President Putin as being interested in peace now," O'Brien said. "We are always interested in seeing that when Ukraine is prepared to make peace, that it's able to do so on terms that are a success for Ukraine."

O'Brien said that Russia would not be able to attack Ukrainian cities and targets in the way it has without Chinese support in the war. The United States has repeatedly warned about Russia's sanctions evasion through China and other countries.

"We've made clear that we will take additional steps against the specific Chinese actors involved, and we're in ongoing consultations with our European colleagues," O'Brien warned.

He said he thought China was taking seriously warnings that support for Russia needs to stop.

Blinken will also meet Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky and other senior officials for discussions on continued support for Ukraine, collaborative defense modernization and deepening energy ties, according to the statement.

While in Moldova, Blinken will discuss U.S. support for the country's progress on EU accession and energy security, the statement said.

(Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Doina Chiacu; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama)
(Reuters) - The EU said on Friday it demanded answers from Russia on what it called an "unacceptable" provocation from Russian guards on the border with Estonia.

Estonia said on Thursday that in the early hours of the day Russian border guards had removed navigation buoys from the Estonian side of the Narva River separating the two countries.

"This border incident is part of a broader pattern of provocative behaviour and hybrid actions by Russia, including on its maritime and land borders in the Baltic Sea region," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement.

"Such actions are unacceptable. The European Union expects an explanation by Russia about the removal of the buoys, and their immediate return."

The location of buoys between Russia and Estonia had been disputed since the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Estonian police and border guard said.

The Russian embassy in Brussels did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Narva River runs from a lake between Russia and Estonia and ends up in the Gulf of Finland, part of the Baltic Sea.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that Russia's Baltic Sea borders should be in accordance with international law, and that the defence ministry's work to clarify the border was of a technical nature.

(Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by Frances Kerry)
WARSAW (Reuters) - A Polish parliamentary commission investigating a plan to hold elections by postal vote during the COVID pandemic will tell prosecutors that crimes may have been committed by several top figures from the last government, state media said on Friday.

Donald Tusk's pro-European coalition government, in office since December, has made a priority of holding to account those it accuses of wrongdoing under the previous nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) administration.

The parliamentary commission has been investigating the plan to hold a postal vote. Like many countries, Poland was under strict lockdown measures at the time the election was meant to be held, in May that year.

The plan was abandoned due to splits on the issue in the then ruling coalition and questions over its legality, but the printing of postal ballots that were never used cost the state at least 70 million zlotys ($17.85 million), according to the current government.

It says that those responsible for such a sum of public money going to waste may have committed crimes.

On Friday the commission questioned PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski.

State news agency PAP cited representatives of the commission as saying that it would inform prosecutors that crimes may have been committed by people including former prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki, former parliament speaker Elzbieta Witek, former state assets minister Jacek Sasin and former interior minister Mariusz Kaminski.

Separately, PAP quoted the commission's chairman Dariusz Jonski as saying that it also planned to inform prosecutors that Kaczynski's role in formulating the plan may constitute a crime.

There was no immediate comment from the PiS press office. The party has previously said that the current government is engaging in a politically motivated witch-hunt.

The 2020 presidential election was postponed and finally held on June 28, with PiS-ally Andrzej Duda winning a second term in office in a run-off vote held on July 12.

($1 = 3.9213 zlotys)

(Reporting by Alan Charlish; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
You are here: World

 Flash

China donated much-needed medical equipment to a university hospital in the Syrian capital Damascus on Thursday, in a bid to bolster the country's health sector.

Assad University Hospital in Damascus received portable X-ray machines, ventilators, and oxygen concentrators from China.

During the reception ceremony, Syrian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Bassam Ibrahim expressed gratitude for the donation, stressing the significance of international cooperation amidst Syria's challenging circumstances.

Chinese Ambassador to Syria Shi Hongwei said that China would continue to assist in Syria's reconstruction and development.

Nizar Abbas, director of the hospital, highlighted the significance of the donation in upgrading the hospital's emergency department.

This donation came as part of an initiative by China to support Syria's health sector, which includes a recent partnership involving the China International Development Cooperation Agency, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Syria to deliver healthcare support via mobile clinics.
BJP, RSS Relations

What Nadda is stating needs to be taken in the proper context and tactical need of the RSS-BJP agenda. It in no way suggests any differences in their long term goal or relationship.

Friday May 24, 2024 5:28 PM , Ram Puniyani

As the election season (April-May 2024) is in progress there are observations by some that this time RSS volunteers (swayamsevaks) are not on the field to help the BJP for electoral mobilization.

So far, in most elections barring the one of 1984, in the aftermath of anti-Sikh pogrom, there are many guesses about the role of RSS combine in the elections this time.

In this context the interview of J.P. Nadda, given to IE (May 19, 2024) claims that RSS is a cultural and social organization while BJP is a political party. Nadda claims that:

 the BJP was now self-reliant and was fully capable of running its own affairs. The party has evolved over a period of time, and unlike when during Atal Behari Vajpayees time, it was completely dependent on the RSS, this was not the case anymore.

This is claimed particularly in the light of Narendra Modis spectacular rise, most of his decisions being made by himself and the charisma created around him by multiple mechanisms, including what is called Godi media, Controlled by his circle of corporate cronies. Some will tend to believe that BJP is now a totally autonomous party like any other party. Can this be true?

As we recall RSS was formed in the context of rising Indian-consciousness during the freedom struggle. Indias anti-colonial freedom struggle was founded on pluralism and diversity. The triggering point for formation of RSS was the rising dalit struggles for social equality. The formation of this Hindu nationalist organization was also inspired by the Nationalism of Mussolini and Hitler. Unlike another organization devoted to Hindu nationalism, the Hindu Mahasabha, RSS focused on training swayamsevaks and pracharaks (propagators) in the ideology of Hindu nationalism rather than jumping directly into the political arena.

In due course it started throwing up different organizations, mostly formed by its trained volunteers. Interestingly the first subordinate organization was Rashtra Sevika Samiti, for women. This was guided by K.B. Hedgewar the first Sarsanghchalak, and formed by the women close to RSS pracharaks (propagators), as women are not permitted in RSS itself. The pracharaks in due course formed Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Bhartiya Majdoor Sangh, Vishwas Hindu Parishad and a bit later Bajrang Dal. Today it has over 60 organizations working on the agenda of Hindu Rashtra.

The formation of the political wing of RSS came in the wake of murder of the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi, by RSS trained Pracharak Nathuram Godse. RSS felt the need for a political party which can articulate its ideology in the political arena. So, far entering the political arena was an anathema for this organization. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee of Hindu Mahasabha helped by Arya Samaj in particular took the lead in formation of BJP predecessor, Bhartiya Jansangh. RSS loaned three of its prominent Pracharaks to Jansangh: Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Lal Krishan Advani and Deendayal Upadhyay. Later, with Deendayal Upadhyay becoming the President of Jansangh, RSS control on this party became total.

At the same time its shakhas were training young boys in the ideology of Hindu nationalism, based on glorification of the ancient past and hate for the Muslims. As per Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel it was the Hate spread by RSS due to which murder of Gandhi became possible, Sardar Patel was firmly of the opinion that the communal poison spread by the RSS was responsible for the Mahatmas assassination. He said:

"As a final result of the poison, the country had to suffer the sacrifice of the invaluable life of Gandhi."

Jansangh-RSS eagerly joined the Jayaprakash Naryan movement 1975. Soon they came to control the movement and got respectability in public eyes, which was extremely low due to their association with Gandhi murder.

Jansangh also merged into Janata Party which was inspired by JP. Soon many components of Janata Party asked the Janasangh leaders in the party to give up their association with RSS, i.e. to give up dual membership (of Janata Party and RSS). The Jansangh leaders owed their primary loyalty to RSS and left Janata Party to form Bhartiya Janata Party in 1980.

While they were nurtured and trained in the ideology of Hindu Nationalism, BJP for electoral purposes put forward Gandhian Socialism as their motto!

As they did not get much traction on the electoral arena they soon shifted gears and took up Babri Mosque-Ram Temple as the central issue. The accompanying anti Muslim violence led to polarization and BJPs ascent on the political chessboard went up by leaps and bounds.

The major policies of RSS Combine, of which BJP is a component, are coordinated through annually held Akhil Bhartiya India Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS, All India Representatives Meeting), presided over by the RSS Sarsanghchalak. As BJP became more powerful the RSS was getting more space to work and infiltrate in the state apparatus.

Since 2014, the number of RSS Shakhas (Branches) has gone up in number in a big way. As per the ABPS report 22-23 Over 8,500 new shakha (daily meetings) were started by the RSS in the country during 2022-23. The total number of shakha rose 12 per cent to 68,651 from 60,117 during the previous year."

This shows the speed with which RSS work is expanding during the present BJP rule. What prevails in RSS and BJP is a division of labor, with RSS being the parent organization and laying the broad contours of march to Hindu Rashtra.

The present scenario where Nadda is making this statement needs to be understood in the context of their electoral strategy and relationship to RSS. It is in no way the parting of ways between the parent organization and its political progeny. Modis towering image is needed for the agenda of Hindu nation. As most of the sectarian nationalisms, which are mostly dictatorial, need a towering image to undermine and wipe out democratic freedoms.

So projecting Modi as a tall figure in no way contradicts the agenda of RSS combine, as a matter of fact it aids their goals in immeasurable ways.

What Nadda is stating needs to be taken in the proper context and tactical need of the RSS-BJP agenda. It in no way suggests any differences in their long term goal or relationship.





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HA NOI  Businesses are proposing a strict management mechanism for the sustainable development of durian farming sector amid its rapid expansion.

After officially permitting exports of Vietnamese durian to China, the king of fruits has created a miracle for Viet Nam's fruit industry, with more than US$2.2 billion in export value last year.

However, the growing market has exposed the industry to problems of complying to import market regulations, leading to many durian shipments being inspected for plant diseases and food safety.

Other violations include packaging facilities purchasing durian from growing areas without codes, leading to products with unclear origin, or not following the approved packaging process.

Ngo Tuong Vy, general director of Chanh Thu Fruit Import-Export Joint Stock Company, said that the durian industry's development is helping farmers earn huge profits.

But she said that many businesses have lost hundreds of billions of ong because purchasing contracts have been cancelled. When working with a supermarket chain, just one cancelled contract can have huge consequences.

Therefore, Vy said, there needs to be a systematic legal mechanism for the durian industry's sustainable development.

For instance, Thailand  a competitor of Viet Nam in durian production and export  has seen success in the global market thanks in part to strict sanctions for violations at every phase of the durian supply chain.

Enforcement of the regulations contributed not only to the benefit of individual growers, but also for the whole supply chain and the nation, she added.

Durian crops have a life cycle of up to 30 to 40 years, so a long-term solution to protect the Vietnamese fruit's reputation and brand is necessary to help the industry develop sustainably.

Vo Quan Huy, director of Huy Long An Co, Ltd., said that another issue is tracing the origin of seedlings. In the next five to ten years, he said, the market will start paying more attention to provenance.

Huy also said new durian growing areas should be issued codes in order to increase the volume of official exports.

Currently, about 30 per cent of the total durian production area has already been granted codes or has registered for codes.

Nguyen Phong Phu, technical director of Vina T&T Import-Export Company, said the most important issue for the durian industry now is to strengthen the supply chain. According to Phu, that's because the major problems of the industry are price chaos, breaching of contracts and breaking the supply chains.

Viet Nam now has 708 coded growing areas and 168 coded packaging facilities that are officially allowed to export durian to China.

In addition, there are 634 growing areas and 80 packaging facilities waiting for codes granted by the General Department of Customs of China (GACC) to export durian to China.

Around 26,400 hectares of durian growing areas have been granted codes, while about 17,790 hectares are awaiting their codes.

Viet Nam's total durian production area is currently up to 150,766 hectares.  VNS
THUA THIEN-HUE  A container ship, CNC Bangkok of France's CMA-CGM Group, will make its maiden voyage on June 3, departing from Chan May Port, the first time a global logistics firm has linked to the port.

Manager of the ports container division Vo ai Phong said the shipping group will begin carrying commodities and exports from local businesses at the provincial industries parks and the Chan May-Lang Co Economic Zone to global ports and importers.

He said the tanker with 21,000DWT (deadweight tonnage) plans to ship to ports of Laem Chabang in Thailand, to Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya and Kobe in Japan, and Busan and Kwangyang in Korea before returning to Chan May Port.

It is the first international ocean shipment from Thua Thien-Hue provincial main port to worldwide ports, promoting co-operation opportunities and shipment links among world ports and the provinces logistics industry, Phong said.

The co-operation between the Chan May Port management board and CMA-CGM Group shipping group aims to boost operation of cargo ship fleets and supporting businesses and producers in central Viet Nam in approaching to global market via worldwide logistics chain service.

The central province has given support to help local businesses and shipping agents to boost production and exports.

Each shipping agent will be given VN210 million (US$8,400) in assistance for each sea trip, while each 20-feet container will receive VN800,000 ($32) and VN1.1 million ($44) for a 40-feet container.

The province said the operation of the new international cargo route would also help local businesses in the neighbouring provinces of Quang Binh and Quang Tri, connecting them with the world market via Chan May Port and the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) that links Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Viet Nam.

It said the Chan May  Lang Co Economic Zone, located about 6-7km from National Highway No 1 and the North-South railway with two airports of Phu Bai and a Nang, is home to 47 projects with a total registered investment of VN79.3 trillion ($3.4 billion) for tourism, urban, logistics and high-tech.

Thua ThienHue has been accelerating the infrastructure construction to lure strategic investors and environmentally friendly projects, while the Chan May Port has been upgraded to be able to handle up to six million tonnes of cargo per year.

In 2022, the first domestic container route  which was jointly developed by Chan May Port and Hai An transport companies  was launched from the port linking it to Hai Phong and HCM City, operating twice a week.

Port authorities say they can handle 70,000DWT (deadweight tonnage) cargo ships, 4,000TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) container ships and 225,000GT (gross tonnage) cruise ships, along with having a 200,000DWT trans-shipment area.

It plans on improving this capacity with bonded warehouses and a depot container freight station.

It currently handles between 4 million to 4.5 million tonnes of cargo annually, but it wants to increase its capacity to 5 million or 6 million tonnes by 2025.  VNS
HA NOI  Stocks were mixed on Friday as profit-taking after Thursday's rally weighed on markets, while market liquidity was at an eight-week high.

The VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) finished the day at 1,261.93 points, down 19.1 points, or 1.49 per cent.

On the southern bourse, the breadth was negative as 275 stocks ticked down, while 71 increased and 31 ended flat. Liquidity hovered above VN35.5 trillion (US$1.39 billion), an increase of 52 per cent from the previous session.

The VN30-Index, tracking the 30 biggest stocks on HoSE by market capitalisation, also dropped 21.3 points, or 1.63 per cent, down to 1,283.46 points. The number of decliners surpassed gainers in the VN30 basket by 25 to four, with one stock ending flat.

Large-cap stocks in the technology, banking and manufacturing sectors led the market's downturn, with FPT Corporation (FPT) posting the biggest fall in market capitalisation of 4.07 per cent, contributing to a decrease of 1.7 points in the VN-Index.

Banking stocks also saw poor performance on Friday. Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (VCB) declined 0.88 per cent, Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade (CTG) fell 2.26 per cent, and Vietnam Prosperity Joint Stock Commercial Bank (VPB) tumbled 2.7 per cent.

Losses were capped by gains in some pillar stocks, led by Vietnam Rubber Group JSC (GVR), which was up over 2.5 per cent. Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (ACB) also increased by 2.81 per cent, and Vietnam Airlines JSC (HVN) rose 2.11 per cent.

The Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX) index also finished lower on Friday, declining 2.1 per cent to 241.72 points. The reversal ended a sixteen-day upward trend.

During the session, more than VN3.1 trillion worth of shares were traded, equivalent to a trading volume of more than 148 million shares on the northern market.

Foreign investors also applied significant pressure in the afternoon when they continued to net sell another VN784.6 billion of stocks in the VN-Index. This morning, the bloc discharged a net sale of VN739.5 billion. At the close of the day, HoSE alone saw VN1.5 trillion net sold, while shares in the VN30 basket were net sold at nearly VN1.2 trillion.

Since the beginning of May, foreign investors have had three sessions in which trillions of Vietnamese ong were net sold from the HoSE. Generally, since the beginning of the month, about VN8.9 trillion has been net sold.  VNS
QUANG TRI  Local people are happy and excited to benefit from forest protection and carbon credit sales in the coastal central province of Quang Tri.

"Everyone feels happy when receiving the money," said Ho Van Chien to the online newspaper Vietnamnet.

Chien, 64, head of the Community Forest Management Board in Chenh Venh Village, Huong Hoa District in the province, has participated in local forest patrols over the past eight years.

He said the management board, established in 2017, which was assigned to manage and protect 600 hectares (ha) of natural forest, was made up entirely of Van Kieu ethnic people.

At the beginning, everyone was a volunteer.

The management board ran six patrol teams, each consisting of six or seven members and each team would have three forest areas to check, along established routes, every month.

When encountering strangers or signs of forest encroachment, the patrol teams would intervene, repel outsiders and report any issues to the authorities to take appropriate action, he said.

Due to strict protection measures, the forest was thriving, with many large-diameter natural trees and valuable species previously listed in the Viet Nam Red Book of critically endangered species, returning to inhabit the area.

"To be honest, we did not know anything about carbon credits before, he said.

"We just did the task of forest protection because we thought that protecting the forest meant protecting the living environment for the next generations."

Then at the end of 2023, Chien was told about carbon credits and took part in several training courses.

In February, the village received the first payment for carbon credits and distributed it to households.

Chien said: The money is not much, but it still is a motivation of local people to better protect the forest.

Because of their results, the village was asked to protect an additional 200ha of natural forest, bringing the total forest area under the village's management to nearly 800ha.

Ho Van Kien, a member of the Forest Management and Protection Board in Ruong Village in Huong Hoa District, said that the money from carbon credit sales was enough to make the local people to be more determined to protect the forest.

The province is one of six provinces in the central region piloting carbon credit sales and financial management under the agreement to pay for greenhouse gas emission reduction, according to Decree No. 107/2022/N-CP issued by the Government in 2022.

Last year, the province earned over VN51 billion (US$1.99 million) from selling carbon credits, with the money going to forest protection teams in villages and forest owners.

On average, each hectare of natural forest receives about VN120,000 ($4.7) from carbon absorption and storage services.

The province has over 126,000ha of natural forest, including over 20,000ha managed by forest protection teams.

Green certificates

In addition to protecting natural forests, the province can sell credits from planted forests.

The province currently has over 26,000ha of trees which have been granted sustainable forest management certificates from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Viet Nam Forest Certification Scheme (VFCS) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Hoang uc Doanh, chairman of Quang Tri Forest Certificate Holder Group, explained that the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a non-governmental organisation, established in 1993, which issues directives to develop and manage sustainable forests worldwide.

FSC has strict criteria on which, if met, it will issue an internationally-recognised certification.

Viet Nam had its own standards, including 10 principles and 150 criteria based on FSC guidelines, he said.

In 2010, the province was the first locality in Viet Nam to be awarded the FSC Sustainable Forest Management Certificate.

Doanh said he still remembered the initial problems persuading local people to plant certified forests at that time, because they were only familiar with traditional planting.

The time needed for the new certified forests to grow was significant, it took only four to five years to harvest traditionally-planted wood, but it took up to twelve years to harvest from a certificated forest.

At that time, businesses were also hesitant because there was no price differentiation in the market between certified and uncertified wood.

Ha Sy ong, deputy chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee, said that in 2008, the province invited international organisations to evaluate sustainable forest management at the Ben Hai Forestry Joint Stock Company.

They provided a 300-page document of conditions that needed improvement to achieve FSC certification, he said.

The process of overcoming these challenges lasted for two years, when the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Forest Stewardship Council re-evaluated the situation.

In 2010, the result was that about 95 per cent of the recommendations had been met.

Then Ben Hai Forestry One Member Co., Ltd became the first in Viet Nam to be awarded the FSC Sustainable Forest Management Certificate, he said.

From this model, certified forest planting was expanded to many other localities and from an initial 8,600ha of protected forest at the beginning of the scheme, there are now over 26,000ha.

According to Doanh, local people can now see benefits of planting certified forests.

Certified planted wood can be sold at higher prices, up to 12 per cent more than ordinary wood and businesses are often able to sign major contracts.

In recent years, markets such as the US, EU and Japan have increased the requirements for sustainable products, imposing new regulations on imported goods in order to stop illegal logging and prevent deforestation.

Therefore, when wood from certified forests was exported, it met the conditions to enter all markets, he said. When there were stable markets for wood exports, the livelihoods of farmers would also be stabilised.  VNS
HA NOI  Well-known classical pianist ang Thai Son  the first Asian artist to win the International Chopin Piano Competition  will perform with his students during a concert in Ha Noi next month.

The concert is the opening event of the series Timeless Resonance, which is produced by Thanh Viet Production, a pioneer in the development of cultural and musical events.

Talking with media on a video call from Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport, where his flight back to Viet Nam was postponed, founder and director of Thanh Viet Production Quoc Trung  a well-established producer and composer in his own right  said that Timeless Resonance aims to showcase top classical musicians from Viet Nam and all over the world.

We faced many challenges when we decided to carry out the series. In Viet Nam, classical music is often seen as an academic genre which is not easy to understand, to feel and to enjoy for many people. Thats why classical music concerts also receive little attention to be produced, Trung said.

Some people said that we are reckless when we dare to produce a classical music concert series. However, that is what we want to do. We wish to create the quality concerts which bring emotion not only for music lovers, but also for ourselves, added the composer, who also founded the Monsoon International Music Festival, the largest music festival in Viet Nam.

At a press meeting in Ha Noi, pianist Son said that he has never before been involved in organising a concert in Viet Nam  until now.

The opening concert for Timeless Resonance will feature Son and three of his students  Sophia Shuya Liu, Kai-Min Chang and Zitong Wang.

They are all young and talented. And each of them has their own distinctive musical personality, which is a very important matter for a professional pianist, Son said about his students.

With the participation of these young international award-wining pianists, I would like to present The Rise of Asia in music, he said, adding that 90 per cent of his students are Asian.

Alongside solo performances from each pianist, the concert will also include quartet performances from the lecturer and his students.

The programme includes F. Schuberts Military March No. 1 Op. 51 in D major D733; L. V. Beethovens Bagatelles Op. 33 No. 1, 2, and 3; F. Liszts Mephisto Waltz No. 1 S. 514; F. Chopins Variations on a theme of Coopers Air national in D major and G. Faures Barcarolle No. 1 Op.26 in A minor.

ang Thai Son was propelled to the forefront of the musical world in October 1980, when he was awarded the First Prize and Gold Medal at the 10th International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw. It was also the first time that a top international competition was won by an Asian pianist.

He began studying piano with his mother, Thai Thi Lien, the co-founder of what is known today as the Viet Nam National Academy of Music in Ha Noi. He later sharpened his skills at the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory.

Since winning the Chopin Competition, his international career has taken him all over the world. He has played with numerous world-class orchestras such as Londons Philharmonia, Orchestre Nationale de Paris, Staatskapelle Berlin, St-Petersburg Philharmonic, Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, Czech Philharmonic and Warsaw National Philharmonic.

Son is currently a professor at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, and the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio, US. Many of his students have won prizes in major international competitions. He has sat on the juries of prestigious competitions such as the Warsaw International Chopin Piano Competition, the Clara Haskil International Piano Competition (Switzerland), the Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition (Israel), Ferruccio Busoni International Piano Competition (Italy), Sydney International Piano Competition (Australia) and the Concours musical international de Montreal (Canada).

The opening concert of Timeless Resonance series will take place at the Ha Noi Opera House on June 2, following a similar one at Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory on June 3.  VNS
MOSCOW  The Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) on May 22 organised a Viet Nam Day, which drew the participation of not only Vietnamese students but also their international peers, and scholars.

With the support of the Vietnamese Embassy, the ASEAN Centre in MGIMO and Vietnamese associations in Russia, the programme, in its 9th edition, featured diverse activities, including a photo exhibition on the 70th anniversary of the Geneva Accords, symposiums on Viet Nam - Russia relations, and art performances.

Vietnamese calligraphy and ong Ho paintings, a unique Vietnamese art that carries the nation's traditional values, were also introduced to foreign friends on this occasion.

Rector of MGIMO Anatoly Torkunov praised the Vietnamese people, nature and traditional cuisine, and expressed his belief that MGIMO students will contribute to Viet Nams diplomatic sector.

Vietnamese Ambassador ang Minh Khoi said the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership is developing fruitfully, highlighting contributions by Vietnamese scholars graduating from the university.

The programme has opened up a series of events on Viet Nam at universities in Moscow.  VNA/VNS
HCM CITY  Viet Nam ranks third in the list of the most popular Asian destinations for European visitors based on accommodation searches on the Agoda digital travel platform.

Specifically, according to Agoda April data, Viet Nam witnessed a 66 per cent increase in searches from the group, following Malaysia with 89 per cent and Japan with 71 per cent.

Agoda's country director for Viet Nam Vu Ngoc Lam noted that this reflects Viet Nam's growing allure, with an increasing number of European tourists choosing the nation as their summer holiday destination.

European countries with the highest searches for travel to Viet Nam last month included France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Spain.

The three most searched destinations in Viet Nam by European tourists are HCM City in the south, Hoi An in the central province of Quang Nam, and Nha Trang in the central province of Khanh Hoa. Offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture, they are ideal choices for travellers looking to enjoy their long summer vacation to the full. - VNA/VNS
SEOUL - Nearly 847,000 people from the Republic of Korea visited Viet Nam in April, accounting for 31.1 per cent of the total 2,720,557 tourists from the country to Southeast Asian countries, the RoK Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport hast reported.

With many prominent destinations such as a Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and a Lat, Viet Nam has risen to become the top destination in Southeast Asia for Korean holidaymakers.

The number of tourists from Seoul to a Nang, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc in April were reported at 173, 865, 141,130 and 53,680 passengers, respectively.

To meet the surging demand, the RoKs low-cost airlines have also increased flights to Viet Nam, mostly on routes to Nha Trang and Phu Quoc.

From May 2024, T'way Air has launched an additional daily Busan-Nha Trang flight. The total number of direct routes operated by T'way Air to Viet Nam has increased to three with departures from Incheon, Cheongju, and Busan.

From June 19, the Daegu-Nha Trang route will also be reoperated. The route was shut down after first operating in May 2019 before the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

Eastar Jet, which already operates flies from Incheon to Nha Trang, also said it will launch a new route to Phu Quoc starting from July 19 with a frequency of seven round trips per week. - VNA/VNS
HCM CITY  To celebrate the time-honored traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival, Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel proudly debuts its gourmet sticky rice dumpling collection with signature creations by the Cantonese veteran chefs of Li Bai restaurant.

This year marks a notable launch in conjuction with the hotel's newly renovated Li Bai culinary concept, bringing an ever-innovative design inspired by the local folk stories alongside nostalgic flavors with contemporary enhancements.

Sticky rice dumplings, also known as zong zi or bak zhang, as well as dragon boat racing, are traditions linked with this festival.

Handcrafted from glutinous rice and filled with various ingredients such as meat, beans, salted egg yolk, nuts, and then wrapped in bamboo leaves before being cooked, dragon boat dumplings come with many variations in shape, from triangle and square to round.

In Viet Nam, zong zi can be broadly categorised into Vietnamese style and Chinese style, mainly Southern Chinese-style.

While Vietnamese sticky rice dumplings are known as banh u nuoc tro, with a sweeter taste and triangle appearance popular in Northern Viet Nam, the Chinese style in HCM City are filled in pyramid and pillow shapes with savoury ingredients, including salted egg yolk, pork, shiitake mushrooms, mung beans, taro and chicken, leaving a rich and decadent filling.

Entering the fifth year of the hotel's handcrafted zong zi production, Li Bai under Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel unveils a luxurious collection of four best-selling flavors showcasing exquisite ingredients and masterful artisanal techniques.

This years fillings include both classic and creative flavours, namely Abalone and dried scallop, Char siew pork and Iberico ham, Chicken and foie gras, Soy tempeh, wild mushroom and truffle.

The dragon boat dumplings are recommended and best enjoyed with Li Bais staple sauce, XO Sauce, freshly-made in house with a gourmet blend of dried scallops, shallots, garlic, chilli, dried shrimp, shrimp roe and more. Li Bais artisanal condiment adds a rich punch to the sweet nod of the occasion that makes it difficult to stop at one bite.

Dragon boat dumplings are available for purchase from May 9 to June 10 with the tasting booth at the hotel lobby open from 9 am to 8 pm daily.

Dumplings can be purchased individually or in gift sets and are priced at VND198,000++ per piece for the options of pork or chicken as well as for assorted nuts with mushroom fillings (vegan option) and VND338,000++ per piece for the best-selling dried scallop and abalone.

For more information or to order, call 028 3827 2828 or visit https://www.libaisaigon.com/ .  VNS
HA NOI  The South China Morning Post (SCMP) of Hong Kong (China) has recently honoured Son oong Cave in Viet Nam's central province of Quang Binh as one of the seven most beautiful underground attractions in the world.

The SCMPs article looks back at the journey to discover the world's largest cave of a local farmer named Ho Khanh.

During a jungle expedition in 1991, Khanh stumbled upon the cave entrance. However, the sound of rushing water and strong gusts of wind deterred him from venturing further inside. On subsequent attempts, he was unable to remember the location of the "mysterious" cave.

In 2007, Khanh joined a royal expedition team of the UK in their search of new caves in Phong Nha  Ke Bang, and he guided them to search for the cave but they could not find it. In 2008, Khanh finally found the cave entrance and contacted the UK expedition team. Upon measurement, explorers confirmed that the cave was 5km long.

In addition to its underground river systems, thriving jungle ecosystem, 400-million-year-old fossils, and spectacular geological formations, Son oong Cave is home to several species of plants and animals that exist nowhere else on earth.

In 2018, a team of UK cave experts discovered that Son oong cave is at least 30 per cent larger and much deeper than previously reported.

In addition to Viet Nam's Son oong Cave, the list of the seven most beautiful underground attractions in the world includes Tham Luang cave (Thailand), the Paris Catacombs (France), the Cold War Tunnel (Albania), the Reed Flute Cave (China), Malinta Tunnel (the Philippines), and the National Coal Mining Museum of the UK. VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Leaders of Russia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Palestine and Sri Lanka have sent congratulatory messages and letters to To Lam on his election as the President of Viet Nam by the15th National Assembly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin underlined the dynamic development of the Viet Nam-Russia relationship in the spirit of the comprehensive strategic partnership and hoped that in his capacity as President, Lam will continue promoting bilateral constructive cooperation in all fields, benefiting both nations and strengthening security and stability in the Asia-Pacific.

Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his desire to further strengthen and deepen the friendship and long-term cooperation between the two countries, both bilaterally and as close partners within ASEAN.

Letters of congratulations were also sent by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State of Palestine and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation Mahmoud Abbas, and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh and Chairman of the Mongolian Parliament Gombojav Zandanshatar sent congratulatory letters to President To Lam and Chairman of the Vietnamese NA Tran Thanh Man.

The Mongolian leaders expressed their readiness to work closely with Vietnamese leaders to strengthen bilateral relations and traditional friendship in all areas, meeting the interests of both Mongolian and Vietnamese people.

They also extended invitations to President Lam and NA Chairman Man to visit Mongolia, aiming to elevate the bilateral relationship on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.

Chairman of the State Duma of Russia Vyacheslav Volodin has sent a letter of congratulations to Man on his election.

In the letter, Volodin stressed that the constructive cooperation between deputies of the Russian and Vietnamese legislatures has promoted the strengthening of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

He also wished Man successes in his new role.  VNS
NEW YORK  Viet Nam, Slovenia, Switzerland, several other United Nations (UN) member states and international organisations on May 23 (US time) jointly organised an event on preventing attacks on water resources in armed conflicts and enhancing civilian protection.

Held within the UN Protection of Civilians Week, the event saw many representatives lauding the importance of Resolution 2573, which is on protecting objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population, to the protection of water systems and infrastructure. The document was initiated by Viet Nam during its non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council for 2020-21.

In his remarks, Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the UN, outlined several proposals by the Southeast Asian nation for better protecting water resources in armed conflicts.

He said addressing the root causes of conflicts is the best way to protect civilians and water resources, with the Security Council playing a crucial role. Resolution 2573 is one of the significant initiatives in this regard and its implementation needs to be strengthened.

All parties involved in armed conflicts must adhere to international law and international humanitarian law and be held accountable for attacks on water resources and water infrastructure, he noted.

The diplomat went on to stress a need to prioritise stronger cooperation in protecting and sustainably using transboundary water resources to ensure effective and equitable management of the shared resources, maintaining a peaceful and stable environment for sustainable development, and preventing conflicts. The UN and regional mechanisms have a vital role to play in promoting dialogue and joint work among countries for common development and prosperity.  VNS
HA NOI  United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has asked Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the UN, to convey his congratulations to General To Lam on his election as the President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.

During his phone talks with Giang on May 23, Guterres expressed his belief that under the leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV), the State and President Lam, Vietnamese people will reap more achievements across all spheres, particularly the implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs).

The Secretary General affirmed that the UN will continue to be a reliable partner of Vietnam in its cause of national development.

Guterres also noted his hope to meet Lam in the time ahead to further promote the good relations between Viet Nam and the UN, while appreciating the Southeast Asian nations remarkable socio-economic achievements as well as its contributions to the handling of global issues at UN forums.

On this occasion, the two sides compared notes on the international situation, newly-emerging issues at the UN, and solutions to raise the operational efficiency of the UN system.  VNS
NEW YORK  Viet Nam strongly condemns the crime of genocide and has made various specific efforts and taken meaningful actions to end this crime and punish genocidal criminals, Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the United Nations (UN), affirmed on May 23.

Addressing the UN General Assembly (UNGA)'s meeting on the culture of peace, Giang said that these efforts and actions originated from Vietnam's policy of always respecting the value of human life, its commitment to protecting people, and its consistent stance of upholding the UN Charter and international law.

As a member state of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, Viet Nam has seriously implemented its national obligations under the convention and international commitments in this field, he said.

Viet Nam's role as Chair of the UN Security Council's Working Group on International Courts in the 2020-2021 tenure, its support for the activities of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals and its unanimous adoption of the UNGA Resolution on "International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, together with other countries, are some specific examples of the countrys stance and contributions over the past time, the diplomat stressed.

The ambassador also emphasised that as peace, stability and development are prerequisites for eradicating genocide from its root, strengthening dialogue, reconciliation and national unity in related countries should be a top priority

Viet Nam believes that the UNGA is the most suitable forum to promote consensus and solidarity among countries in the fight against genocide and other serious crimes, added Giang.

Within the framework of this meeting, the UNGA passed a Resolution, sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, designating July 11 as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica of Bosnia vand Herzegovina.  VNS
HA NOI  The National Assembly (NA) continued its agenda on Friday, focusing on the right of access to information as part of the draft amended Law on Archives.

Deputy Le Thi Thanh Lam from the southern province of Hau Giang suggested that the draft law should carefully evaluate the necessity of not designating archival services as a conditional business investment sector.

She argued that imposing business conditions on archival services contradicts the policy ensuring access to information for agencies, organisations and individuals.

Emphasising that archiving was the activity of preserving documents to maintain and promote the value of archival materials, serving the cause of national construction and defence and ensuring citizens' right of access to information, Deputy Tran Thi Thu ong from the southern province of Bac Lieu proposed adding a provision to Article 61 to ensure the right of access to information for individuals, organisations and agencies in society.

This addition ensures consistency between the Law on Archives and other legal documents. Additionally, it is essential to define who is allowed access to electronic document sources.

For documents serving the operations of State administrative agencies, ong suggested expanding access rights to all agencies, organisations and individuals in society to clearly define their rights and obligations in specific administrative legal relations. This could also help reduce cumbersome administrative procedures and significantly improve state management efficiency.

Regarding archival services as a conditional business sector, Minister of Home Affairs Pham Thi Thanh Tra stated that while the law does not stipulate this, the specialised nature of archival materials necessitates specific regulations.

Specifically regulating business conditions for archival services at different levels is necessary to reflect reality and encourage and promote the socialisation of archival activities," Tra said.

In the report on the explanation, reception and revision of the draft amended Law on Archives, presented by the General Secretary of the NA and Chairman of its Office Bui Van Cuong, it was noted that the amended draft law now comprises eight chapters with 65 articles.

The draft amended law has been developed to institutionalise the Party's policy on creating a legal system that promotes innovation, digital transformation, and the development of archival products and services to serve the public and effectively contribute to national construction, defence and international integration.

The draft amended law is built on the principle of inheriting, promoting and improving the 2011 Law on Archives provisions.

The NA Standing Committee has accepted the opinions of NA deputies regarding the regulation that permanent archival documents of communes are to be submitted to the state historical archives at the provincial level. They have also revised Article 18 on the agencies and organisations that submit documents to the state historical archives to ensure consistency.

Cuong stated that some current laws have specific provisions regarding archival preservation regimes, retention periods, and the issuance of copies. If these archival provisions were abolished in favour of uniformity under the Law on Archives, it would not be appropriate given the specialised nature of archival activities in some ministries and sectors and would be impractical.

Therefore, to ensure that the archival activities of the Vietnam National Archives are consistent with the principles of archival activities as prescribed by the Law on Archives, while also accommodating the archival activities of some specialised sectors, the NA Standing Committee has directed the addition of an article on the application of the Law on Archives and related legislation, as reflected in Article 3 of the draft Law.  VNS
HA NOI - From 2.7 million in 2003, the Vietnamese community abroad now groups around 6 million, boasting a growth rate of approximately 5 per cent annually and casting its influence far and wide.

They are present in over 130 countries and territories, with more than 80 per cent of their population residing in developed nations. Beyond integrating, the diaspora is steadily solidifying its standing, making tangible contributions to the host countries, fostering diplomatic and trade relations, and projecting a positive image of Vietnamese culture globally.

Bright Prospects

Presently, Vietnamese entrepreneurs have established a formidable presence across the globe, wielding socioeconomic clout within not only their communities but also their host nations. These businessmen constitute the most proactive force in expanding the reach of Vietnamese goods to international markets, and establishing extensive distribution networks encompassing various commercial hubs and trade associations, particularly in sectors of strength such as textiles, footwear, agriculture, food, and handicrafts.

Recent statistics reveal that overseas Vietnamese (OV) from 35 countries and territories have invested in 385 FDI projects across 42 out of Viet Nam's 63 provinces and cities, with a cumulative registered capital of US$1.72 billion. Additionally, there exists a significant influx of indirect investment from the group in the domestic market, contributing to propelling socioeconomic growth, generating employment opportunities, and bolstering state revenue through taxation.

Moreover, remittances sent back to Viet Nam between 1993 (when such data recording began) and 2022 surpassed $190 billion, nearly matching the total FDI disbursed during the same period. Despite COVID-19-induced challenges, remittance inflows have remained resilient, with Viet Nam consistently ranking among the top 10 recipients globally.

Recently, the Ho Chi Minh City branch of the State Bank of Viet Nam disclosed that remittances to the southern economic hub exceeded $2.86 billion in the first quarter of 2024, marking a remarkable 35.4 per cent year-on-year surge and the highest growth rate witnessed in the past three years. Notably, remittances grew 19.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2023, and 14.2 per cent in 2022.

Effective use of this resource holds paramount significance for socioeconomic development, the efficacy of monetary policies and governance, and the promotion of remittance payment services, said Deputy Director of the branch Nguyen uc Lenh.

Alongside their economic contributions, the Vietnamese community abroad is actively engaged in environmental initiatives for the Truong Sa (Spratly). From 2012 to 2023, they raised funds worth over VN28 billion($1.1 million) for the building of sovereign-affirming vessels, island infrastructure development, procurement of gifts and essential supplies for island outposts and the DK1 platform.

Subsequent to their trips to the Truong Sa, the group organised numerous events advocating for the islands, including the establishment of the fund for Viet Nam's maritime sovereignty in the Republic of Korea in 2015. They also developed the Truong Sa club in Germany in 2017, the Hoang Sa-Truong Sa club in Poland in 2019 and in the Czech Republic in 2022, the Vietnamese Community liaison board for Viet Nam's sea and islands in Europe, and the Vietnamese sea and islands club in France in 2023. Additionally, they have actively participated in holding various seminars and forums on the East Sea issue.

Connecting, attracting OV resources

In November 2023, the Prime Minister approved Decision No. 1334/QD-TTg endorsing a project on leveraging OV resources for national development in the modern era. This comprehensive initiative aims to mobilise the resources to contribute to Vietnam's development during the industrialisation and modernisation phase, aligning with its ambition to become a developed, high-income nation by 2045, as outlined in the 13th National Party Congress.

The project seeks to foster a unified understanding that the overseas community constitutes an increasingly critical resource for the building, development, and safeguarding of the country, thereby formulating strategies to nurture and capitalise on their resources.

The project delineates the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, including the creation of environments conducive to OV contributions as well as the improvement of legal frameworks to ensure equitable treatment for them while engaging in investment, business, scientific research, technology, cultural activities in Vietnam. Additionally, it aims to establish sustainable mechanisms to incentivise the diasporas participation in national development across suitable sectors.

Over the long term, the project aims to bolster the OV network worldwide, which involves intensifying efforts to support legally secure, stable, and integrated communities, especially in challenging regions; establishing and reinforcing OV organisations and associations, and identifying and nurturing positive, influential figures.

Simultaneously, efforts will be made to engage their younger generation to enhance awareness of their heritage, historical traditions, and culture, as well as their deeper connection with the homeland, sense of national pride, and commitment to making contributions back home.

Other projects either being developed or being implemented include those on building a database of the group, mobilising OVs for the introduction, consumption and distribution of Vietnamese products abroad for 2020-2024, and honouring the Vietnamese language within the OV communities. VNS
HA NOI  World leaders have continued to extend their congratulations to To Lam after they was sworn in as the State President and Chairman of the National Assembly of Viet Nam, respectively, at the 15th legislatures seventh sitting.

Congratulating Lam, Cuban President Cuba Miguel Diaz said he wishes that he will succeed in his new mission, and hopes to deepen the wonderful relations between the two nations in all areas.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin affirmed that Viet Nam and Thailand are close friends and important partners of each other, expressing his hope to work with Lam to strengthen the relations between the two countries.

Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un offered his congratulations to Lam, affirming that his election reflects the trust and expectation that the Vietnamese Party and people give to him.

He wishes that Lam will gain many achievements in his new position for the nations prosperity and peoples happiness.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he is confident that under the leadership of the Party, State and President To Lam, the Vietnamese people will continue reaping further success in all domains, particularly the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

He affirmed that the UN will continue being a trustworthy partner that accompanies Viet Nam during the nations development process, adding he is looking forward to seeing Lam soon so as to promote the sound cooperation between Viet Nam and the UN.

He took the occasion to hail Viet Nam's outstanding socio-economic development as well as its contributions to addressing global issues at the UNs forums.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros reaffirmed the commitment to deepening the fraternal ties at the highest level and across all cooperation areas.

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Emir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Deputy Emir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of Nicaragua Daniel Ortega Saavedra and Vice President of Nicaragua Rosario Murillo also congratulated Lam on his new position.

Lam and Man got letters of congratulations from Italian President Sergio Mattarella and President of Italian Senate Ignazio La Russa, in which they affirmed the strong bonds between the two nations have been shaped up by their long-term friendship, and expressed their wish to expand the dynamic cooperation within the bilateral framework as well as development cooperation between Italy and ASEAN.

Man also received a letter of congratulations from Speaker of the Greek Parliament Konstantinos Tassoulas.  VNS
HCM CITY  Thousands of cancer patients are awaiting check-ups and treatment at the branch of the HCM City Oncology Hospital in Thu uc City, causing a persistent overload at the largest oncology hospital in the South.

The 1,000-bed hospital, opened in February last year, gets 4,700-4,800 patients a day and has 950 patients at a time, according to statistics it released.

Around 1,000-1,100 patients undergo radiotherapy or chemotherapy every day.

Nguyen Mai Ha Vy, 45, arrived at the hospital for radiotherapy at 8am on May 18, but had to wait until afternoon.

Vy has been getting treatment for cervical cancer for the past year.

I have to wait hours to see the doctor every time I travel to the hospital from Binh Phuoc Province, she said.

Nguyen Thi Que, 65, travelled through the night from Phu Quy Island off Binh Thuan and arrived at the hospital in the morning, but was told to wait until 2:30pm to get ultrasound.

I had to spend a night at a rental room nearby to wait for the endoscopy, she said.

There is no specialised cancer hospital in my hometown. That is why I have to travel far from home.

Dr Tran ang Ngoc Linh, head of the department of gynaecological radiotherapy, said the 13 radiotherapy machines at the hospital operate at full capacity from early in the morning until 9pm every day, but have yet to meet the demand.

A cancer patient has to wait at least three weeks for radiotherapy, and around 500-600 of them are in the waiting list, she said.

In 2023, nearly 800,000 patients visited the hospital for examination, and doctors performed nearly 37,000 surgeries and more than 180,000 people received radiotherapy.

Nearly 300,000 patients were treated with internal medicine.

Dr Diep Bao Tuan, deputy director of the hospital, said the number of cancer patients visiting the hospital has increased steadily over the years.

More than 80 per cent of patients admitted to the hospital come from other cities and provinces, resulting in a severe overload, he said.

As some cancers are likely to be managed routinely and many patients live long with cancer due to improved treatment, the number of patients has increased over the years, he said.

The hospital has taken a number of measures to reduce its load, including booking appointments online and extending the working hours from 4:30am to 10pm.

It has speeded up technology transfer and training for hospitals in Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta, southeastern region and Central Highlands to enhance their treatment capacity.

Dr Le Tuan Anh, director of Cho Ray Hospitals oncology centre, said the patient overload affects the quality of treatment.

It is necessary to set up cancer treatment centres at other cities and provinces to prevent patients from travelling to HCM City for treatment, he said.

Around 345,000 people live with cancer in Viet Nam.

The most common are cancers of the breast, liver and lung, according to the Ministry of Health.

With around 180,000 new cancer cases and 120,000 deaths each year, Viet Nam is among the countries with a moderate cancer rate but high mortality rate, according to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) statistics for 2022.  VNS
HA NOI  Young people's tendency to switch jobs can lead to fresh learning opportunities, higher incomes and better career growth, but it can also have a detrimental impact on workers' reputations and job security, Giao Duc&Thoi ai (Education and Times) newspaper reported.

Nhu Hoang Thu, a native of Phuc Tho District, Ha Noi, has worked in three different types of jobs in her short five years in the workforce. Her longest employment period was over a year, while her shortest was just three months.

The nature of Thu's most recent work was not a good fit with her personality or her desire to pursue possibilities for personal growth, so she decided to quit.

"There are a lot of new and interesting job opportunities that also offer attractive incomes for young workers like us. To make my life better in the future, I chose to take on new challenges rather than settle down, she said.

After completing her studies in Japan, Bui Thuy Linh, a native of Song Lo District in Vinh Phuc Province, was employed as an assistant to a general manager of a company headquartered in Vinh Yen City. Her monthly salary, exclusive of bonuses and allowances, was US$1,200.

But a little more than a year later, Linh made the decision to leave the job because she felt the culture there was not a good personal fit. In spite of being entirely foreign owned enterprise, the business followed a family business model, with little prospect of promotion, she said.

Linh then applied to become a finance officer in a local bank where there was much more potential to advance, however she is now working in an industry which has little to do with her university studies and has numerous challenges.

Hoang Van Cong, who has over ten years of experience in the restaurant and hotel business, finds that changing jobs allows him to advance professionally and earn a high salary. He currently resides in Quang Ninh Province. However, regardless of his workplace, he is unable to reach an understanding with his colleagues.

"I am a team leader, but my juniors are always tacitly against the duties I suggest. They just put in little effort, which halts advancement. I'm under constant pressure since I have to answer to my superiors," he said.

Young workers born between 1997 and 2004 are seen by many experts as belonging to a creative, adaptable and technological-savvy age. But they also encounter a lot of prejudices due to being perceived as being impatient, lacking discipline and having excessive egos.

According to a poll by Deloitte, the international audit service network, which has more than 14,000 employees in 44 countries, including Asia Pacific, 46 per cent of respondents said they were used to being exhausted all or most of the time at work.

Harassment and insults at work, whether they occur in person or virtually, is another prevalent issue for young employees. The impact of the global economy presents numerous obstacles for the younger generation.

Employers demand more in terms of professional experience from young workers, intensifying competition for jobs too, a practice also common in Viet Nam, according to the report.

According to Hoang Ngan, director of the Fireway Centre for Human Resource Development and Career Training, young employees are encouraged to develop their own thinking processes and decision-making abilities because they have grown up in a digital world. If they are not satisfied, they simply change jobs.

"Work that is meaningful and in line with personal values is valued by young workers. They anticipate a flexible work environment and technology integration and they value opportunities to grow professionally," Ngan said.

But not every young employee is the same. Many remain devoted to the company and possess sharp, critical thinking skills. It all depends on what each person values or finds most suitable, said Ngan.

Nguyen Phuong Le, CEO of AnTag Joint Stock Company, said 'jumping jobs' does not always bring opportunities for advancement and that in some cases, workers have fallen into despair and depression after changing jobs.

It is important for young workers to understand themselves clearly, because 'job hopping' only brings benefits if approached strategically and intelligently, with clear goals and a systematic career development plan, she said.

Pham Kim Linh, CEO of the Groovy Joint Stock Company, said employees who seize the initiative to seek out better chances for themselves could help the labour market grow as a whole.

Businesses then also proactively enhance their competitive position compared to other companies in the same sector.

"Enterprises need to raise salaries, bonuses and incentives for employees to not only attract good people but also retain workers, she said.

Proficiency in a foreign language and relevant extra curricular school activities, in her opinion, are important factors for employers to make recruitment decisions. The truth is that companies make hiring decisions based on the value each candidate brings, particularly if they are a good fit for the role and the corporate culture.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has signed an official dispatch ordering urgent relief for those affected by the fatal fire in Cau Giay District early Friday as well as an investigation into the cause of the tragedy.

The fire broke out at 12.46am at a rented building in a narrow alleyway on Trung Kinh Street, killing at least 14 people. Seven others were rescued from the scene.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control within 10 minutes, and it was completely extinguished at 1.26am.

Deputy PM Tran Hong Ha has been assigned to handle the case, while the Ha Noi Peoples Committee is tasked with providing support to the victims families and working with the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) during the investigation.

The document also stressed compliance with fire prevention and safety regulations. Ministerial and municipal-level leaders must review fire safety conditions at business establishments and rented buildings and report to the PM by July 30.

Awareness campaigns, especially on fire safety, fire evacuation, search and rescue, must be stepped up, especially at buildings at elevated fire risks, given the hot weather.

At the National Assembly meeting on Friday morning, NA Deputy Chairman Nguyen Khac inh offered condolences to the victims and their families and stressed vigilance for fire safety among the public.

Deputy NA Chairman Tran Quang Phuong also led a working group to the scene of the incident and hospitals where victims are being treated, alongside high-level officials from the public security ministry and Ha Noi's city government.

Praising firefighting forces for their quick actions, Deputy PM Ha urged an investigation into the case to identify the cause of the incident and any responsible parties, as well as handle any violations that occurred.

He also emphasised the need for compliance with fire safety regulations and regular inspections into high-risk establishments, such as smaller apartment buildings and rented houses with multiple residents. Relevant laws must also be strictly enforced, he noted.

Speaking to Bao Chinh phu (Government News), Director of Transport Hospital Dr Bui Sy Tuan Anh said that the facility is treating six victims of the fire.

Five of them are no longer in critical condition and one elderly patient remains under intensive care.

According to a press release issued by the Ha Noi Peoples Committee on Friday morning, the city will offer the victims families VN50 million (US$2,000) for each fatality and VN30 million ($1,200) for each injured person within the day.

The fatal fire on Friday broke out at a rented building inside a narrow alleyway about 200m away from the front of Trung Kinh Street, consisting of a two-storey block, a three-storey block and an open yard for parking. There was an electric vehicle repair shop on the first floor.

According to resident registrations, the house had 10 rooms rented out to a total of 17 people. The house owners family of seven was also living in the residence.

This is the deadliest fire incident since the tragic fire that killed 56 people in a 'mini-apartment' building on Khuong Ha Street, Thanh Xuan District, Ha Noi last September. The fire was determined to have ignited from an electrical failure happening to a gasoline-powered vehicle at the parking lot at the first floor of the building.  VNS
HCM CITY  The chairman of major hydroelectricity and renewable energy producer Trung Nam Group has been prohibited from leaving the country until the company pays its tax debts of VN21 billion (US$840,000).

Nguyen Tam Thinhs ban is related to taxes owed by the companys Thuan Nam solar power plant.

The company said the plant is struggling due to slow payments for electricity by state-owned Electricity Vietnam (EVN).

The company recently paid overdue customs duties of over VN27.5 billion in HCM City.

The company has outstanding bonds worth VN24.3 trillion, and subsidiaries too have issued bonds.

But it nevertheless remains a significant player in the energy industry.  VNS
NGHE AN  The central province of Nghe An on Friday held a memorial and burial service for the remains of 87 Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who laid down their lives in Laos.

The remains were found in the Lao provinces of Xaysomboun, Xiangkhouang and Vientiane by a repatriation team of the provincial Military Command during the 2023-2024 dry season.

At the ceremony held at the war martyrs cemetery in Nghi Loc District, Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Bui inh Long stressed that the search and repatriation of fallen soldiers' remains is a major policy of the Vietnamese Party and the State, and demonstrates the tradition of When drinking water, remember its source.

The Vietnamese Party, State, people and army are proud of the sacrifice of volunteer soldiers and experts, who greatly contributed to the victories of the two countries revolutions as well as their great friendship and special solidarity, he stressed.

A representative from the working delegation of the Lao provinces thanked the Vietnamese Party, Government, army and people for their wholehearted, valuable support for the Lao revolution, and volunteer soldiers and experts for their sacrifice for the national liberation struggle of Laos.

The Viet Nam-Laos friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation will grow further in the time ahead, he believed.

Over the past time, Nghe An has closely coordinated with the three Lao localities in finding and repatriating the remains of 12,600 Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who died during wars in Laos.  VNS
HA NOI  The 2023 Southeast Asia Report  Technology in Education was launched in Ha Noi on May 24 by UNESCO and the Vietnam National Institute of Educational Sciences in partnership with the Southeast Asia Ministers of Education Organisation (SEAMEO) and the Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report Team based in UNESCO.

Themed Technology in Education: A Tool on Whose Terms, the 2023 GEM Report for Southeast Asia covers analysis of 11 countries in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. It stated that technology has changed the organisation of education in the region, and recognised that technology has helped enhance learning access to students in mountainous and remote areas and in emergency case. Besides, it highlighted that technology is not a comprehensive tool to handle major challenges in the sector.

At the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van Phuc, Deputy Minister of Education and Training, said the reports findings put forth a framework to review the use of technology in Vietnam in a comprehensive manner, adding its recommendations help the country head towards a fair, integrated and quality education for all learners amidst rapid digital transformation.

It is necessary to share experience and discuss strategies and solutions to tap on technology to the fullest extent in education with the participation of stakeholders, from managers, researchers, teachers and organisations, to ensure a fair and quality education.

Meanwhile, Director of the GEM Report Manos Antoninis described the report as a material to shape up digital transformation in Vietnam and the whole region and assure that learners are put at the centre of the decision to integrate technology into education.

The report called on policymakers to understand education challenges before choosing suitable technologies to handle them, he stressed.

Participants at the event also discussed the current use of technologies as well as ways ahead to promote digital transformation in the education sector.

According to the report, Southeast Asia experienced a fast growth rate in the use of internet in the past 10 years, with 400 million Internet users. However, there is a yawning gap in access between the rich and the poor, with 95% children from wealthy families benefit from the Internet at home as compared to 18% of those from impoverished ones. - VNS
The fire occurs at mid-night of May 24. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  At least 14 people were killed and three others were injured in a blaze at a house in an alley on Trung Kinh street in Trung Hoa ward of Hanois Cau Giay district in the early morning of May 24.

Police are identifying the deceased and injured.

The multi-floor house is said to be rented with two rooms on each floor and the first floor being an electric bike store.

The fire occurring at mid-night is allegedly caused by a short circuit relating to electric bicycles. The fire was put under control about one hour later. Local police blocked the Trung Kinh street.

Immediately after receiving information about the fire, Deputy Minister of Public Security Senior Lieutenant General Tran Quoc To, Deputy Minister of Public Security Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Long, Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Dinh Tien Dung, Chairman of the municipal People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh, leaders of the Cau Giay district People's Committee, and the districts Division of Public Security arrived the scene to direct the firefighting and rescue activities.

Local authorities and organisations have visited and offered support to the victims.

Many Vietnamese traders stores affected in Poland shopping centre fire Vietnamese Ambassador to Poland Ha Hoang Hai said on May 12 that a fire had broken out at the shopping centre on Marywilska street, Warsaw, Poland, where many Vietnamese run stalls, on early the day, and there was no casualty, but almost all property were destroyed, according to initial reports.
At last weeks roundtable themed Saving electricity - From policy to life, organised by the Vietnam Government Portal, Vo Quang Lam, deputy general director of Vietnam Electricity (EVN), said that the country consumes 2-3 times more energy than other countries because of inefficient usage.

Brand new mindset required for proper usage of electricity, Photo: Le Toan

For example, to generate $1,000 for the economy, we use about 376 tonnes of oil (in equivalent), while the global average is only 170 tonnes, Singapore is 99 tonnes, and Japan is 90 tonnes.

Lam added that it was a challenge for Vietnam to improve energy usage efficiency and save electricity when the supply was struggling.

In the first four months of the year, commercial electricity reached 96.2 billion kWh, an increase of 12.4 per cent on year, while the growth of 2023 was 4.26 per cent compared to 2022. This is the highest growth rate in recent years.

Tran Dinh Thien, former director of the Vietnam Institute of Economics, said that Directive No.20/CT-TTg issued in 2023 on electricity saving provided a new approach, as a national action programme with specific targets, which is being deployed across the country at all levels.

Thien emphasised that to use electricity effectively, supply was critical. We can see the huge room for saving electricity. In the coming years, the government should improve education to raise awareness that electricity is a valuable resource. Electricity saving should become a cultural feature for every person, he said.

Ha Dang Son, director of the Centre for Energy and Green Growth Research, said that in developed countries, training and education on saving electricity and natural resources were carried out very early in the education system. He highlighted sanctions that were used for traffic violations and to prevent drink-driving as an effective approach that could be replicated.

Saving electricity and natural resources needs such heavy sanctions instead of the current regulations, which are mostly encouraging and educational, Son said.

Tran Anh Tuan from Panasonic Vietnam said the company had been implementing practical solutions to save electricity, but still had to ensure safe production.

We ask employees to turn off electrical equipment not in use; maintain and renovate equipment to improve electricity efficiency; and encourage and propose electricity saving ideas in every department and division, Tuan said.

Moreover, Panasonic Vietnam has replaced all lighting in the company with energy-saving LED lights, renovated the air conditioners in the workshop, and installed automatic power off sensors, as well as reviewed and optimised the use of compressed air in production,

Nguyen Viet Son, deputy director of Vinh Phuc Department of Industry and Trade, said that to effectively save electricity, there must be good coordination and implementation among state management agencies, electricity distribution, and electricity customers.

For customers in residential areas, Vinh Phuc has introduced electricity saving solutions through the local radio system, while the business sector focuses on large customers and businesses in numerous industries that consume a lot of energy, Son said.

EVN has been focused on applying technologies to save electricity, like modernising the metering system. About 92 per cent of electricity meters across the country are now electronic.

Currently, EVN is interested in implementing further electricity-saving solutions in industrial production customers, which account for a high proportion of electricity usage. This energy customer group used 107 billion kWh out of 253 billion kWh of commercial electricity in 2023.

Of the 30.86 million electricity purchase contracts signed with EVN, the number of key energy-using businesses (using over one million kWh per year) was nearly 19,700, but their electricity consumption accounts for more than 40 per cent of total commercial electricity. If we do a good job of using electricity economically and effectively in the business sector, there will be opportunities to save a lot of electricity, Lam of EVN said.

This year, EVN has set a target of saving 5.5 billion kWh, but will strive to save about six billion.

Supporting industry required for semiconductors Experts are warning that Vietnams semiconductor industry can strongly develop only when it has a supporting industry.

Commerce chamber advocates power purchasing agreement, bypassing state utility EVN The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has recommended allowing all businesses and individuals to purchase renewable energy directly, rather than through state utility Vietnam Electricity (EVN).
The results, following trials across 34 centres in Japan, Europe, and New Zealand, demonstrate a significant reduction in adverse events for the first time and the clinical advantage of the DynamX Bioadaptor. The data was presented at a late-breaking clinical session during the EuroPCR 2024 conference in Paris.

Shigeru Saito, director of the Division of Cardiology and Catheterisation Laboratory at Shonan Kamakura General Hospital in Japan, said, "These results from the two-year trial are very excitingunlike anything weve ever seen beforeand represent a new treatment category for patients living with coronary artery disease. The data shows that the Bioadaptor offers sustained, very low event rates across all major endpoints, making it a superior option compared to DES."

The DynamX bioadaptor is different from current standard-of-care therapies, as it is designed to return vessel health through different phases of adaption in the body to restore vessel biology and maintain consistent blood flow.

"We are beyond thrilled with the findings from the trial," said Motasim Sirhan, CEO of Elixir Medical. "Never before have we seen a vascular technology that addresses the limitations of existing therapies as we have with the DynamX Bioadaptor. These exceptional patient clinical outcomes further validate that the Bioadaptor is truly a transformative technology for the treatment of coronary artery disease."

Ha Noi hosts congress of cardiovascular-thoracic surgeons More than 700 health experts from 22 countries are attending the 24th Congress of the Association of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons of Asia that opened in Ha Noi today.

Smartphone helps diagnose cardiovascular diseases via internet With the assistance of smartphones, doctors can see the electrocardiography (ECG) process, which allows them to diagnose patients from afar.
At the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) conference held by VIR in collaboration with WBS Solution and System Co., Ltd. on May 23, Nguyen Van Dinh, chairman of the Board of Directors and director of En Vang International JSC, delved into this transformative journey.

En Vang is always looking for an effective means of doing business and contributing to the community.

During trips to the United States and China, he witnessed the popularity of EVs and wished to adopt the green mobility solution. However, EV infrastructure remained limited in Vietnam a few years ago, making this dream infeasible, he said.

COP26 marked an important turning point for En Vang when shareholders agreed to stop investing in petrol-powered vehicles and switch to EVs for the companys business operations.

The company has signed a cooperation agreement with VinFast to facilitate the goal. We also aim to cut other expenses because EVs are more economical than gasoline-powered vehicles, he said.

In addition, this move will help the company contribute to protecting the environment.

"As a transport business, it is common for us not to face a polluted environment daily. It is imperative to make change for a better environment," he added.

With a fleet of EVs, the company records a positive customer experience and a safe operation process. Operating costs are 2030 per cent cheaper than the cost of petrol cars. Warranty and maintenance costs are also affordable.

According to Dinh, the northern port city of Haiphong is encouraging businesses to pioneer sustainable development without specific support incentives. Thus, the company is applying the fares for EVs equal to that of petrol vehicles. Hopefully, more support policies will be issued, so businesses can make bold moves to achieve the net-zero goal by 2050.

Many taxi operators like Mai Linh and Vinasun do not dare investing in EVs. However, I dont regret switching to EVs. Solar energy, if utilised well, will contribute to reducing costs for EVs. We believe in our choice," Dinh added.

ESG conference aims to change mindsets The Sheraton Hotel in Hanoi was host to an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) conference on May 23 with the participation of policymakers and the business community, and in collaboration with VIR and WBS Solution and System Co., Ltd.

How to best navigate the ESG challenges in banking Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations have become increasingly integral to investing and corporate strategies across industries, especially the financial sector.
This message was shared by Do Van Su, deputy general director of the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, at the Enticing FDI for Dual Transformation talk show organised by VIR on May 22.

The fact that Vietnam is taking the lead in ensuring sustainable development is evident through its implementation of a national green growth strategy, a climate change strategy, and a new environmental protection law. Additionally, obtaining feedback from businesses operating in Vietnam provides a valuable perspective on these initiatives.

Do Van Su, deputy general director of the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (second from the left)

The FIA's role is to promote foreign-invested projects in Vietnam. From a policy standpoint, and crucially for the legal framework governing businesses and investors in Vietnam, there are three key legal documents directly related to green transformation.

The first document is the national green growth strategy. This strategy outlines a path for sustainable economic growth by focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, and fostering green industries. It serves as a comprehensive blueprint for transitioning to a low-carbon economy and enhancing environmental sustainability.

Secondly, the Vietnam Climate Change Strategy is a comprehensive plan that emphasises measures to protect coastal areas, manage natural resources, and develop renewable energy sources. Given that Vietnam has numerous coastal areas significantly affected by climate change, this strategy addresses critical issues such as coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and the sustainable use of marine resources.

The third crucial legal framework is the adoption of the new Environmental Protection Law. This law strengthens regulations on environmental impact assessments, pollution control, and biodiversity compensation. It aims to enhance legal mechanisms for protecting the environment, ensuring that economic development does not come at the expense of the environment.

Vietnam is strategically located at the centre of Southeast Asia and adjacent to China, which positions it advantageously within a direct supply chain to the world's largest market for both export and import materials essential for production. As of now, Vietnam has 15 free trade agreements (FTAs) in effect, significantly expanding the global market reach for Vietnamese products. This advantageous position has attracted numerous major global companies to establish factories, branch offices, and subsidiaries in Vietnam to leverage the country's production capabilities.

In terms of skilled labour, Vietnam benefits from partnerships between some of the world's leading universities and local colleges and universities. These collaborations are focused on training young workers for high-tech sectors, ensuring a steady supply of qualified labour to meet the demands of advanced industries. Additionally, the Vietnamese government provides robust support and incentives for high-tech projects. The FIA is currently developing new decrees and policies to further bolster this sector, creating an even more favourable environment for technological investments.

However, there are certain challenges that investors face when operating in Vietnam, particularly concerning the stability of the electric power supply. Last year, several investors expressed concerns to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) about the inconsistent power supply affecting their manufacturing operations. Recognising these difficulties, comprehensive efforts are being made to address them. The MPI minister has instructed Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and other related companies to ensure a stable power supply for foreign investment companies, especially during the peak summer months.

To prepare for the influx of FDI in green and digital transformation, the Vietnamese government, through the MPI, has proposed to the prime minister new FDI strategies. These comprehensive strategies focus on five key sectors that aim to attract and promote foreign investment in high technology projects, renewable energy, smart manufacturing, green infrastructure, and digital transformation.

The second crucial step for Vietnam is to strengthen its regulatory and legal framework, particularly administrative procedures. The goal is to simplify the process for foreign investors to set up companies and implement their production operations in Vietnam, making the business environment more accessible and efficient.

Additionally, promoting innovation and technology transfer within local companies is vital. This initiative will empower local businesses, enabling them to cooperate more effectively with foreign companies and enhance their competitiveness.

Lastly, Vietnam must focus on developing its infrastructure and training skilled labour to support these advanced sectors. However, the most important challenge is to implement these policies effectively and ensure that the legal framework operates efficiently. This includes translating strategic plans into actionable steps that yield tangible results, thereby creating a robust and supportive environment for sustainable and digital growth.

Driving dual transformation Vietnam's Ministry of Planning and Investment and the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) have released a report titled Business digital transformation 2023: Digital Transformation, Green Transformation.

Groundwork laid for the dual transition Vietnams strategic focus on attracting high-quality foreign investment is being demonstrated through its emphasis on green and digital transformation projects, supported by robust legal frameworks and a strong commitment to sustainability and technological innovation.
According to Matthew Smith, head of Research Institute at Yuanta Vietnam, at the "ESG - Motivations and Breakthroughs" conference held at the Sheraton Hotel in Hanoi on May 23, businesses that maintain higher environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards and actions are viewed more favourably in an otherwise equal playing field.

Matthew Smith at the "ESG - Motivations and Breakthroughs" conference

Investors perceive companies with strong ESG practices as lower risk. This belief stems from the notion that such companies are better managed and more attuned to potential risks and opportunities, Smith said. Moreover, companies that excel in ESG standards often find it easier to attract investment. Capital markets favour these companies, offering them better terms and more growth opportunities. Last but not least, due to reduced risk and easier access to capital, companies with robust ESG practices typically enjoy higher valuations. Investors are willing to pay a premium for the perceived stability and sustainability of these companies.

Additionally, Smith emphasised that corporate governance was the critical factor, suggesting that without strong governance, efforts in environmental sustainability and social responsibility could falter.

Corporate governance is the foundation upon which environmental and social responsibilities are built. Good corporate governance ensures that a company is well-managed, transparent, and accountable. It not only lays the groundwork for solid environmental and social practices to develop and flourish, but also brings economic benefits, Smith added.

Thanks to its strong ESG practices, Yuanta Vietnam, a leading securities company, has continuously increased its charter capital from $12 million in 2007, when it first entered Vietnam, to $100 million in 2023.

The company has also steadily expanded its branch network from north to south, establishing a presence in Hanoi, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Vung Tau.

Alongside this growth, Yuanta Vietnam has seen a continuous increase in its workforce, from 80 employees in its early years to a projected over 400 employees by 2024.

ESG Investor Conference discusses need for inclusive partnerships The 2024 Vietnam ESG Investor Conference saw industry leaders and investors converge at New World Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City on May 16-17 to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change and chart a course towards a more equitable future.

ESG conference aims to change mindsets The Sheraton Hotel in Hanoi was host to an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) conference on May 23 with the participation of policymakers and the business community, and in collaboration with VIR and WBS Solution and System Co., Ltd.
Footwear manufacturer Gia Dinh Group revealed that it has signed export orders until October and is in full swing to deliver products to their partners on time. Its workers are doing 2-2.5 hours overtime each day, and the company is seeking more employees to meet demand.

Amid surging consumer demands in the EU, the United States, and China, the total value of footwear exports in the first quarter of 2024 came to $6.54 billion, up 5.4 per cent on-year.

Garments and textiles also saw inspiring results. Shortly after announcing its strategic cooperation with UK partner Coats Group to produce fire-resistant garments for export, Vinatex is set to export its first shipment to the US in July.

The move aims to realise Vinatexs ambition to move away from traditional garment production, where it now faces stiff competition.

With the return of orders from the EU and US, and their free-trade agreements with Vietnam, the room for export expansion of the local wood industry is also evident.

Figures from the Vietnam General Department of Customs show that in the first four months of this year, exports of timber and wooden items surged 24 per cent on-year, reaching $4.84 billion.

Last year, the figure fell 16 per cent on-year, falling to a mere $13.5 billion, the first year which saw a drop since 2009.

From the outset of 2024, exports rose sharply and evenly in all three groups of agricultural produce; processing and manufacturing industries; and minerals, yet the export of processing and manufacturing items held the lions share, reaching 85 per cent of Vietnams total export value, showing on-year growth of 15 per cent.

A Ministry of Industry and Trade report shows that for the same period, Vietnams exports to the US amounted to over $34 billion, up more than 19 per cent. China imported approximately $18 billion from Vietnam, a 14.4 per cent rise, and the EU received $16.35 billion of goods, up 15 per cent. Exports to South Korea came to over $8.35 billion, showing growth exceeding 10 per cent, and Japan bought Vietnamese goods to the tune of more than $7.65 billion, up 4.6 per cent.

Vietnam's construction industry expected to rebound Vietnam's construction industry is expected to grow steadily over 2024, following its lull period, according to the latest report by Research and Markets that was released on January 16.

Stock market gaining robust foundation The Vietnamese stock market is converging various elements conducive to its growth, marked by positive shifts in terms of both quality and quantity.
The list, announced on May 23, is based on the same rigorous criteria as the Fortune 100's 'Best Companies to Work For' in the United States and 'Worlds 25 Best Workplaces', and recognises organisations excelling in workplace culture.

The 25 winning companies are divided into three categories: 10 in the 'Small' category (up to 99 employees), 10 in the 'Medium' category (100999 employees), and five in the 'Large' category (1,000 employees or more).

This year saw a record participation of 125,000 employees across various industries, and the number of certified companies surged by 150 per cent compared to last year, highlighting a growing commitment to excellence in workplace culture.

In today's dynamic business landscape, characterised by challenges such as multi-generational workforces and the integration of AI, maintaining a great workplace environment can seem like an uphill battle.

Great Place To Work honours those that have achieved 'Great Place To Work Certification' and exemplified extraordinary dedication to fostering a positive workplace culture. These businesses have set the gold standard, surpassing expectations associated with their certification.

Board chair of Great Place To Work ASEAN & ANZ, Roland Wee, said, "Vietnams economy is expected to remain strong for the next three years, with GDP growth and exports both rebounding strongly. Attracting and retaining talent will be a key competitive advantage for Vietnamese and international businesses looking to capitalise on this growth."

Vietnam faces workforce challenges, with its working-age population (2564 years) expected to peak in 2040, while the elderly population (65 years and above) is projected to nearly double, reaching 17 million by 2040. However, opportunities remain as Chinas working-age population, which peaked in 2020, is expected to decline by almost 100 million people by 2040. Companies able to entice and retain talent will be best positioned to benefit from this demographic shift.

Wee also stressed that the number of companies in Vietnam certified by Great Place To Work has tripled over the past three years. Those workplaces recognised in Vietnam have distinguished themselves even further this year.

While businesses that achieve 'Great Place To Work Certification' have demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture, sustainable development is also a crucial topic for both Vietnamese and foreign businesses.

Drew Duncan, managing director of DHL Supply Chain Vietnam, spoke of how DHL is transitioning from fuel-powered to electric vehicles (EVs).

"We are working with suppliers from other Southeast Asian countries to facilitate this transition to EVs. Additionally, we are collaborating with the chamber of commerce and the government to establish the necessary harmonisation codes that will allow us to import commercial EVs, as currently, such codes do not exist," said Duncan.

"We can likely go fully electric over short distances since we can charge the vehicles while they are being loaded or parked at the depot. However, for long-distance travel, the current infrastructure is not yet adequate. In this case, using hybrid vehicles is probably more practical for the next three to five years while the charging infrastructure for long-distance travel is developed," he added.
The meeting between Hung Yen provincial People's Committee and the business delegation from Taiwan (China). (Photo: baohungyen.vn)

Hung Yen - A business delegation from the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (China) on May 22 came to the northern province of Hung Yen to seek investment opportunities.

At the meeting, Chairman of the Hung Yen Provincial People's Committee Tran Quoc Van reviewed the socio-economic situation, transport infrastructure, education and training and the implementation of industrial parks in the province.

Van also introduced potential ways to attract investment to Industrial Park No. 5.

Currently, Industrial Park No. 5 is completing its infrastructure very quickly, so it is able to meet businesses wishing to invest in the industrial park. The province's policy also wants to reserve Industrial Park No. 5 for Taiwanese semiconductor businesses," he said.

Currently, the province has 30 Taiwanese investment projects, with strengths in supporting industrial production for the world's leading corporations in industries such as computers, medical equipment and electronic components.

Earlier, the Taiwanese business delegation visited Industrial Park No. 5 located in Xuan Truc commune and Quang Lang communes of An Thi district and Nghia Dan commune of Kim Dong district adjacent to a road connecting two major highways.

With an area of nearly 200 hectares, the industrial park has currently attracted 12 investment projects, including 10 Taiwanese enterprises with registered capital of about 150 million USD.

Spotlight on socioeconomic development in Hung Yen Hung Yen province, over 60km northwest from Hanoi, has secured laudable socioeconomic development as it continues to exceed the state revenue budget target in only nine months of 2023. It is listed among the top 10 localities nationwide in terms of foreign investment attraction.

Sharply increasing FDI capital flows to Hung Yen By October, Hung Yen was home to nearly 2,200 investment ventures with a cumulative registered capital of over $20 billion, including 536 foreign-invested projects valued $6.76 billion. For the first time, this pushed it into the top 10 localities in terms of foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction in the country.
Following the deal, IFC has fully divested from ABBank. Maybank, Malaysias largest bank, is the biggest foreign shareholder in ABBank, with a 16.4 per cent stake.

As a strategic shareholder, over the past 14 years of partnership, IFC has provided efficient support to ABBank in terms of capital sources, medium- and long-term loan products, and trade finance.

In particular, IFC has offered consulting and shared practical experiences for ABBank to implement projects to ensure compliance with risk management according to Basel III standards.

After divesting from ABBank, IFC will reinvest capital to support more Vietnamese businesses, thereby maximising its development impact. Specifically, IFC will partner with banking and non-bank financial intermediaries to promote financial inclusion and climate finance.

Meanwhile, ABBank is also mulling an option of attracting more capital from foreign investors in the future when there are good opportunities and strategic partners suitable for the bank's sustainable development goals.

At the AGM in 2024, Pham Duy Hieu, acting general director of ABBank, said, under the consultancy of McKinsey, ABBank had formulated a five-year roadmap from 2024 to 2028 outlining goals to reach a capitalisation of $3 billion by 2028, total assets of $15 billion, and profits exceeding $392.6 million.

In 2024, ABBank set a target of generating $39.3 million in pre-tax profit, up 95 per cent against 2023.

IFC focuses on Vietnams transition to low-carbon model To help boost the value and competitiveness of Vietnams agricultural sector, the IFC a member of the World Bank Group is supporting A An Food JSC to enhance its rice production quality and sustainability. This will raise income for farmers and mills along the companys supply chain and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions in rice farming.

IFC considers $150 million investment in OCB International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is considering investment of up to $150 million in Vietnam-based OCB.
The first and second seasons of the contest achieved significant success, receiving positive feedback from both the public and professionals, especially parents and teachers.

The children's artworks captivated viewers with their creativity and artistic flair, and charmed them with their innocence and adorable qualities. Each young artist brought a unique style and personality to their work, making it challenging for the organisers to select the best pieces due to the high quality and diversity of the entries.

Contestants participating in the second season of the 'Travel with Muong Thanh  Dream Vacation' drawing contest

This year, in addition to themes centred around vacations and travel, children aged 6 to 15 will have the opportunity to creatively depict their dream destinations. The organisers have provided several suggested themes to encourage unique, imaginative, and even surreal ideas, allowing the children to express their individual styles and colours.

In line with Muong Thanh Group's mission to preserve and promote traditional Vietnamese values - a core principle upheld for over 30 years, this year's contest also includes the theme Return to roots  My beloved Vietnam. This theme aims to inspire children to explore the beauty of traditional culture and the history of their country, fostering a sense of national pride and awareness about preserving cultural heritage, as well as promoting various destinations across Vietnam.

A total of 112 prizes will be awarded this season. Additionally, a new prize category for the club with the highest number of entries has been introduced to encourage active participation from art clubs and to nurture a creative environment for students.

The judging panel for season three includes esteemed artists Nguyen Huu Hanh, Trieu Khac Tien, and Nguyen Thu Huyen, who possess extensive expertise in fine arts and how great dedication to the development of children's skills. Their enthusiasm and passion will ensure that outstanding and deserving artworks are recognised and rewarded, while providing valuable guidance to the contestants.

The first prize-winning artwork 'I Dream of Travelling with Muong Thanh During Summer Vacation' from the second season

The contest aims to establish a prestigious and enjoyable platform for children, contributing to a memorable and exciting summer. The organisers hope that through this contest, children will find joy in expressing their artistic passions and creativity, and strengthen family bonds as they engage in this colourful world of art together.

Each contestant may submit up to three drawings from May 25 to July 20. The judging and audience voting will take place from July 25 to August 15.

Detailed information about the Travel with Muong Thanh  Dream vacation contest will be updated for contestants, parents, and the public to follow at https://nhamuong.com/the-le-cuoc-thi-ve-tranh-du-lich-cung-muong-thanh-ki-nghi-mo-uoc-mua-3/.

Muong Thanh New Year welcomes spring to the northwest At a time when ban flowers, the distinctive blossoms of the northwestern mountains, are in full bloom, thousands of Muong Thanh Group employees across the country earnestly prepare for their own traditional new year celebration.

Muong Thanh Group campaign celebrates 70th anniversary of Dien Bien Phu Victory On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory and National Tourism Year - Dien Bien 2024, Muong Thanh Group is running a series of meaningful events under the campaign themed "Huyen Thoai Dien Bien-Hao Khi Muong Thanh" (Legend of Dien Bien Phu - Pride of Muong Thanh).
Artist's impression of the planned factory

The new joint venture company will be named Mitsubishi Electric FP Automation Vietnam Co., Ltd. and be established on June 1. It will begin production of air circuit breakers from January 2025, in addition to the current company's existing line of small low-voltage circuit breakers.

Fuji Bakelite Vietnam, which has been in operation since 2014, manufactures small low-voltage circuit breakers for Mitsubishi Electric's Fukuyama Works in Hiroshima Prefecture.

The new company will leverage Fuji Bakelite Vietnam's skilled workforce and expertise in manufacturing and quality control in Vietnam in its manufacturing operations.

Up to now, Mitsubishi Electric has expanded its factory automation business in the ASEAN region by exporting products manufactured mainly in Japan. In the future, however, the demand for factory automation products is expected to increase robustly in countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where strong economic growth is forecast.

Establishing a joint venture in Vietnam will enable Mitsubishi Electric to build a production system for low-voltage circuit breakers, with aims to further expand its factory automation systems division by enhancing product supply capabilities in ASEAN countries.

Masan High-Tech Materials and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation Group reach framework agreement Masan High-Tech Materials (HNX-UpCOM: MSR) has announced that it has reached a framework agreement with Mitsubishi Materials Corporation Group.

Mitsubishi to build onshore wind farm in Laos to sell electricity to Vietnam Mitsubishi Corporation will build an onshore wind farm based in Laos, which could then sell electricity to Vietnam.
Through the partnerships, NZTE, the governments international economic development agency, aims to expand its Made with Care global campaign in Vietnam.

According to NZTE, the F&B industry plays a central role in the trade relationship between Vietnam and New Zealand, taking up 84 per cent of New Zealands exports to Vietnam, totaling NZD790 million ($481.5 million) for the year ending December 2023, with key products including apples, kiwi, dairy, and wine. Such positive outcomes suggest great potential for both countries to build upon this momentum and seize the next valuable opportunities for mutual benefits.

Building on the success of its launch in 2021, NZTEs 2024 Made with Care campaign in Vietnam will continue its role as a collaboration that highlights the strong trade partnership between the two countries in the F&B industry. This year marks another phase of cooperation, showcasing the commitment of both countries to further develop their relationship.

Scott James, the consul general and trade commissioner for New Zealand in Vietnam, stated, Were continuously seeking valuable opportunities to continue building our relationship with Vietnam through enhanced business partnerships that will create mutually beneficial growth. This event is one such opportunity, so I would like to formally acknowledge and thank the team from Aeon Mall An Phu/ Lotte Mart for uniting with us to showcase the best of New Zealand produce. Your vision and partnership in this opportunity is one which we value immensely as we work together to grow awareness, preference and demand for New Zealands food and beverages.

The 'Made with Care' ethos embodies values that are unique to New Zealands F&B products, which is well reflected in the five core values of the 'Made with Care' global campaign: Safe, tasty, nutritious, ethical and premium quality, where products embody care for both people and nature, with an inherent understanding that if the natural world is healthy, so too are the people. The cultivation, production, harvesting, and preservation processes of these products also leverage expertise, experience, and technological innovation to minimise negative impacts on the natural environment, showcasing efforts to conserve resources and safeguard human health.

The attributes of Made with Care are particularly aligned with their two partnered retailers in Vietnam, AEON and Lotte, whose values have always been centred on delivering sustainable, premium quality, and tasty products to their customers, leading to the expanded collaboration with NZTE.

Lee Yong Ho, product group senior director of Lotte Mart Vietnam, shared, "Thanks to the successful collaboration last year, we saw a growing consumer base that values premium products. As Vietnamese consumers increasingly lean towards healthier eating, and care about what goes into their food and other sustainability issues such as packaging and the use of pesticides and GMOs, the 'Made with Care' campaign is a timely and fitting response to Vietnams current domestic F&B market. Lotte Mart's partnership with NZTE underscores our commitment to sustainability, ensuring products are sourced responsibly. By signing the MoU this year and expanding our collaboration, we can offer our customers access to sustainably sourced, high-quality products, supporting a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable future.

This years Made with Care launch in Vietnam showcased 12 of New Zealands finest F&B brands that have been gaining more recognition and trust among Vietnamese consumers, including Anchor, Anlene, Bostock, Fresh Co, Freshmax, Kiwi Crunch, Meadow Fresh, Mr. Apple, Olivado, Rockit, T&G, and Zespri. Together, they offer a wider variety of premium products, ranging from fresh kiwi, organic apples, persimmons, and dairy products, to cold-pressed extra organic oil and nutritious snacks, providing consumers with more diverse choices for themselves and their families.

To officially kick off the 2024 Made with Care campaign in Vietnam, NZTE hosted a special promotional week at AEON Mall Tan Phu from May 16 to 22 and at Lotte Mart District 7 from May 8 to 21. In addition, NZTE organised a special launch event at Lotte Mart District 7 on May 19.

Representatives from 12 New Zealand brands, retailers, and the New Zealand Consul in Vietnam attended these events, which highlighted high-quality, sustainably sourced New Zealand F&B products through presentations and store tours.

New Zealand players keen on creating Vietnam success stories Companies and exporters from New Zealand are expected to deepen their presence in Vietnam, with the two countries having pledged to usher in a stronger flow of trade.

Australasian nations raise partnerships While furthering cooperation with New Zealand, Vietnam has also elevated ties with Australia to a comprehensive strategic partnership, ushering in a brighter outlook for investment and trade flows also spurred on by free trade agreements.
Vietnam has been emerging as a significant player in the global semiconductor industry and aimed to become a key market for large-scale chip production. However, the country faces an intense competition from regional and global rivals such as South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand, each offering attractive incentives to lure semiconductor investments.

Nguyen Hung Du, partner and head of Tax Practice Rajah & Tann LCT

To compete effectively, Vietnam has been considering leveraging strategic incentives to attract foreign semiconductor players and develop a robust local semiconductor workforce as well.

South Korea extended its K-Chips Act that provides substantial tax incentives to investments in advanced industries for another three years. This act is a critical part of South Koreas strategy to maintain its competitive edge in the semiconductor market.

Malaysia, on the other hand, has been building Southeast Asias largest integrated circuit design park and offers a comprehensive package of incentives including tax breaks, subsidies, and visa exemptions to draw in global tech companies, corporate and individual investors, and talents globally. Meanwhile, Thailand offered tax breaks, land subsidies, and workforce development support to attract chip manufacturers.

To position itself competitively, Vietnam has been considering improving tax policies that are not only attractive but also sustainable. Vietnam has offered substantial corporate income tax (CIT) incentives for semiconductor research and development (R&D) and production, including a four-year tax exemption, a 50 per cent tax reduction for nine subsequent years, and a preferential tax rate of 10 per cent for 15 years from the licensing date.

Additionally, customs duty exemptions are provided for imported goods for high-tech projects, including specialised transportation and construction materials.

Vietnam has also established a National Innovation Centre and three high-tech industrial zones in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Danang. These zones create an ecosystem conducive to investment and development in semiconductor R&D and production. Vietnam has also been studying the experiences of many countries in establishing tax incentive policies for the high-tech industry.

Common tax incentives for high-tech are granted by many countries, including CIT incentives, workforce incentives under a personal income tax (PIT) regime, incentives in applying VAT to products, and customs import duty. Incentives are set out by some countries, such as conditional tax liabilities reduction, high rate of R&D cost for tax deduction, lower CIT rate for high-tech schemes, reduction in tax and social security contribution in the high-tech industry, and more besides.

To step up its game, Vietnam should consider several tax policy improvements.

- Enhanced tax incentives: Vietnam should introduce an open policy to optimise a tax incentive regime for the semiconductor industry by improving tax administrative procedures. Furthermore, this could include extended CIT exemptions for specific projects in line with the growth plan of the high-tech industry, higher R&D tax credits, and additional deductions for training and workforce development costs.

- Investment support fund: Establishing an investment support fund, financed by the collection of a top-up tax of 15 per cent on multinational groups subject to the global minimum tax (GMT) application, could provide targeted support to high-tech enterprises. This fund would stabilise the investment environment and attract strategic foreign investors, especially in the semiconductor sector.

- Incentives for workforce development: To build a 50,000-strong semiconductor workforce by 2030, Vietnam should offer tax incentives for companies investing in workforce training and development. This could include PIT exemptions for experts and skilled workers in the semiconductor industry, and grants or subsidies for companies that invest in training programmes. Tax policies play a crucial role in developing a local semiconductor workforce. By offering PIT exemptions and reductions for semiconductor experts and skilled workers, Vietnam can pull in top talents from around the world.

- Support for equipment and technology: Providing specific support for equipment purchase and technology transfer can further reduce the entry barriers for semiconductor companies. For example, offering subsidies that cover up to 5 per cent of total equipment costs and facilitating technology acquisition through tax credits or direct grants would make Vietnam a more attractive destination for semiconductor investments.

Vietnams ambitious plan to develop a significant semiconductor workforce requires a coordinated effort between the government and the private sector. Tax incentives can lower the cost for companies investing in training and education, making it easier to attract and retain skilled workers. This, in turn, enhances the overall competitiveness of Vietnams semiconductor industry.

Vietnams future tax policy for the semiconductor industry should focus on creating a favourable investment climate while ensuring long-term sustainability. The upcoming reform of tax policies related to the GMT and the establishment of an investment support fund are steps in the right direction. Additionally, specific incentives for semiconductor projects will further bolster Vietnams position in the semiconductor market.

Call to arms for semiconductor roles Chip design is set to boom in Vietnam in the coming years, with many investors entering the market. However, human resource training needs more backing for the industry to achieve high quality and capture opportunities.

Vietnam to become key link in semiconductor value chain The Vietnamese government provided positivity and expectation for the country to develop its semiconductor industry at a pivotal conference on April 24 focusing on human resource development.

Samsung and NIC to train 200 students Samsung and the National Innovation Centre (NIC) kicked off the Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) in Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park on May 3, with six training courses for 200 students.

Semiconductor success in reach with investment During the InnovaConnect event organised in April, Lee Young Hee, director of the Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics at the Institute for Basic Sciences at Sungkyunkwan University, and Park Inkyu, head professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, shared their insights with VIRs Hoang Minh about Vietnams advantages in developing the semiconductor industry, as well as trends in the industry that the nation should pursue.

Technology giants keen to embrace gifted engineers Many excellent Vietnamese students could soon have opportunities to improve their knowledge and work in microchips and semiconductors at research and development centres of tech groups such as Samsung and Hana Micron.
At a conference promoting Thai Binh province's trade and investment climate in Brussels on May 23. (Photo: VNA)

Brussels - A conference promoting the trade and investment climate of the northern province of Thai Binh, one of Vietnam's major hubs for ago-fishery exports, took place at the Vietnamese Embassy in Brussels, Belgium, on May 23.

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Van Thao, who is also the head of the Vietnamese delegation to the European Union (EU), talked about significant opportunities for Thai Binh to collaborate with Belgian partners in green energy  one of the provinces priority areas for investment attraction.

He noted that in December 2022, Vietnam became the third country in the world to endorse the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with G7 countries and the EU, Denmark, and Norway.

Permanent Vice Chairman of the provincial People's Council Dang Thanh Giang said that last year the province achieved an annual GDP growth rate of 7.37 per cent, attracting over 3 billion USD in foreign investment and posting 2.6 billion USD in export turnover.

The leader affirmed that Thai Binh looks for comprehensive and multisectoral cooperation with Belgian partners, highlighting trade, high-tech agriculture, new energy, renewable energy, climate change response, services, logistics, manufacturing industries, education, human resources, healthcare, and cultural exchange.

Chairman of the provincial People's Council Nguyen Tien Thanh pledged to accompany and create the most favourable conditions for the investment and operation of foreign investors, including those from Belgium, in the locality.

Secretary-General of the Belgian Vietnamese Alliance (BVA) Duong Minh Tri stated that the BVA is ready to act as a bridge connecting Belgian enterprises with their partners in Thai Binh for the development of effective investment projects conducive to the local economic growth.

At the conference, businessmen of both sides exchanged information about their potential and cooperation needs, sought partnerships, and shared experiences for operating in the two markets.

Talking to the Vietnam News Agency, Chrysoline Monnier from Hub.Brussels affirmed the Brussels investment and export promotion agencys commitment to supporting Belgian enterprises in seeking investment and cooperation chances in Thai Binh. A delegation of Belgian enterprises will soon make a business trip to Vietnam to explore the market, with Thai Binh a likely destination.

While in Belgium, Thai Binh leaders also held working sessions with investment and trade agencies from three regions of Brussels, Wallonia, and Flanders.

Thai Binh eyes more foreign investors According to the General Statistics Office, Thai Binh currently ranked fifth nationwide in luring foreign investment, with nearly $3 billion seen in 2023.

Thai Binh to host $2 billion LNG project The Thai Binh liquefied natural gas (LNG) project is located in Thai Binh Economic Zone, and will have a designed capacity of 1500MW. The investment consortium behind the project is responsible for nearly $2 billion in funding and consists of Tokyo Gas, Kyuden, and Truong Thanh Vietnam Group.

Thai Binh targeting modern development With an eagles eye on the northern provinces potential and advantages, Thai Binhs official planning strategy aims to boost its development and provide it with a modern economic structure.

Thai Binh's economy attracts Swiss investors Swiss companies are exploring investment and cooperation opportunities in Thai Binh to tap into the northern province's rising economy.

Thai Binh boosts investment, trade cooperation with Germany A delegation from the northern province of Thai Binh, led by Deputy Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Khac Than, visited several localities and business organisations in Germany from March 25 to 27, in a bid to enhance trade cooperation with and attract direct investment from the European nation.
Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai (R) and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio at their brief meeting in Tokyo on May 23. (Photo: VNA)

Tokyo - Vietnam consistently regards Japan as an important and long-term partner, Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai told Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio at their brief meeting on May 23 as part of his working visit to Japan to attend the 29th Future of Asia Forum in Tokyo.

At the meeting, Khai expressed his wish that the two nations will further work together to effectively implement their recently established comprehensive strategic partnership as well as important agreements and common perceptions between the two PMs.

With appreciation of Vietnam's participation and contribution to the Tokyo conference, Kishida affirmed his commitment to further promote the substantive and effective development of the bilateral partnership across all fields in the time to come.

Khai took the occasion to convey Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinhs invitation for his Japanese counterpart to visit Vietnam at the earliest opportunity.

Earlier the same day, the Deputy PM received President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Tanaka Akihiko.

Khai proposed Japan consider providing new ODA loans to Vietnam with more favourable lending conditions and simplified procedures, possibly in the form of budget support, to help the Southeast Asian country carry out its large-scale strategic infrastructure development projects.

He also recommended the provision of ODA for projects in digital transformation, green transition and urban railway in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, as well as the continued implementation of those in high-quality human resources training and such new areas as green transition, among others.

Expressing satisfaction with the results of the sides ODA cooperation last year, which logged a total volume of 100 billion JPY (over 636 million USD), Tanaka affirmed that JICA wishes to further the joint work in quality infrastructure projects in line with Vietnam's needs and legal regulations.

He also pledged to continue with joint projects in human resources training, digital transformation, green transition, semiconductors, and innovation.

ASEAN, Japan develop joint automobile production strategy The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan plan to create their first joint strategy on automobile production and sales within Southeast Asia in the context of Chinas increasing presence in the regional electric vehicle market.

Japan to fund coal plant shutdowns in Southeast Asia Japans Mizuho Financial Group will provide financing to help close coal power plants ahead of schedule in Southeast Asia.
"Over the past 50 years, Vietnam and India have consistently maintained a mutually beneficial friendship that has continued to grow. There is ample room for development between the two countries in digital transformation, software, semiconductors, and AI," said the deputy minister during a conversation with N.R. Narayana Murthy, co-founder of IT giant Infosys, on May 20.

The IT and digital technology sector in Vietnam is experiencing a significant surge, with a growth rate of 15-20 per cent over the past 10 years. In 2023, revenue from software, hardware, IT services, and digital content reached over $140 billion.

Vietnam's electronics sector has attracted many large overseas corporations, such as Samsung, Foxconn, and LG. Meanwhile, home-grown tech corporations like FPT, Viettel, and VNPT have shown they are capable of competing with the top foreign businesses.

In addition, there are more than 180 universities and colleges providing training in IT, electronics, and telecommunications majors, with 50,000 graduate engineers every year. This is a great incentive for Vietnam to promote the development of IT and digital technology.

To facilitate this goal, the Vietnamese government has issued a series of policies to promote a dynamic and creative ecosystem. Since 2001, Vietnam has developed eight concentrated IT parks housing more than 1,000 firms and more than 40,000 employees, with some policies aimed at building more of these parks.

In addition, the government has also issued many preferential policies for software development, high technology investment, and support for foreign-invested enterprises.

Under a national strategy on AI research, development, and application to 2030, approved by the government in 2021, Vietnam is aiming to make AI a spearhead technology in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The country is also striving to become a centre for innovation and development of AI solutions and applications in ASEAN and around the world by 2030.

The government will continue to issue many policies to support businesses in the IT sector. It is expected that the government will issue an initiative on semiconductor human resources development in June. Vietnam is also devising a strategy to develop its semiconductor industry to become an industry hub by 2030 with operations in design, packaging, and testing.

VIR talkshow on the green-digital dual transition At the VIR talkshow Enticing FDI for Dual Transformation, speakers discussed the factors needed to create a stable and effective FDI environment.

Indian tech legend inspires Vietnamese IT industry Narayana Murthy, known as "India's Bill Gates", is visiting Vietnam from May 19-23 for the first time to share his experience and inspirational stories with government leaders, IT managers, experts, and business leaders.
Vinaconex currently holds two million shares, equal to a 40 per cent stake in Van Ninh International Port JSC  the investor of the project. Vinaconex expects to complete the deal before June 20.

As one of four long-term growth-driving projects in Quang Ninh, with an area of around 83 hectares, the total investment of phase 1 is over VND2.24 trillion ($93.3 million). Van Ninh General Port is capable of receiving ships of up to 20,000DWT and functions as a focal point for Vietnams imports and exports from and to China.

Quang Ninh kicked off the first phase of the Van Ninh General Port project in 2021, with construction expected to have been completed this year. However, construction has seen setbacks due to a lack of materials.

Tran Khanh Duy, project management board deputy, Van Ninh International Port JSC, said, "The construction process is facing difficulties in terms of levelling materials and constructing the road to the port."

"We are urgently working with licensed mines to source materials for levelling. Although there is a contract signed in principle with the mine owners, at present they are not yet approved to provide materials to the project," Duy added.

Vinaconex decided to divest from the port project while it still showed positive financials from earlier this year.

The company reported first quarter revenue of VND2.65 trillion ($110.4 million), up 35 per cent on-year. VND1.35 trillion ($65.2 million) of which comes from construction activities and VND270 billion ($7.2 million) from the property sector.

Its total after-tax profit in the period was VND482 billion ($20.08 million), up 25-fold from last year.
NEW HAMPTON  A Chickasaw County jury has found Randy Lee Patrie guilty of killing a retired grocer in 2012.

Jurors deliberated for a little more than one hour Thursday before returning a verdict that convicted Patrie, 50, of first-degree murder in the death of Carl Ken Gallmeyer.

Prosecutor Frank Severino Jr. of the Iowa Attorney Generals Office said a dark cloud has been hanging over the community since Gallmeyer, 70, was found dead in his rural Nashua home.

Today is the day the light shines, Severino said during closing arguments.

The crime is punishable by a mandatory life sentence under Iowa law. Sentencing will be at a later date.

For Gallmeyers relatives, the verdict was the end to a 12-year ordeal.

This has been a case of poor circumstances and unforeseen problems. Our family is eternally grateful to all parties who made the legal case possible, and the thousands of hours of effort to make this case, said Gallmeyers son, Seth, following the verdict.

Authorities said Patrie slipped into Gallmeyers home in the early morning hours of Sept. 26, 2012, with a plan to steal a safe full of cash and rare coins because he was drowning in debt.

The first thing he did when he entered was shoot Gallmeyer in the head with a sawed-off Mossberg bolt-action shotgun, Severino said.

It was done for one sole purpose. It was for eliminating Ken, Severino said.

Patie then spent the next six hours searching for the safe. Failing to find it, he stole loaded guns, a TV, tools, and other property from the house.

Nine months later, authorities found Gallmeyers TV on the wall of Patries bedroom, Gallmeyers guns buried in Patries attic insulation, and Gallmeyers tools in Patries garage.

Defense attorney Steve Drahozal said what happened to Gallmeyer was wrong, but he said Patrie wasnt involved.

He said Patries uncle, Denny Hamm, implicated him because Hamm feared police suspected he was involved.

Patrie initially claimed no knowledge of Gallmeyer, said Special Agent Scott Reger with the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. But as the years went by, Patrie implicated his uncle, Denny Hamm, claiming Hamm borrowed his car on the night of the slaying and then gave him Gallmeyers possessions.

Patrie didnt take the stand during trial and the defense offered none of its own witnesses, instead relying on cross-examination of the states witnesses.

Prosecutors rounded out their evidence Thursday with two men who had served time in Edgefield Federal Correctional Facility in South Carolina where Patrie was imprisoned for federal firearm charges following the homicide but before he was charged with murder.

Jason Erickson, who had been serving time on a drug charge, told jurors Patrie told him they were after a large amount of money the victim kept in a safe.

He said the guy had awoken, so they shot him, Erickson said. Then he covered the gentleman in books and a bookcase because he felt like he was being stared at. Those were his exact words.

Erickson said Patrie told him they had turned off Gallmeyers TV, so they had to take it because they touched it. He said Patrie also told him they took a surveillance camera that turned out to be a dummy camera.

You leave no evidence behind. You touch something, you take it, Erickson said.

David Schultz, another former Edgefield inmate, said Patrie told him he used a remote taken from Gallmeyers vehicle to open the garage door and gain access to the house.

The version Schultz heard involved shooting Gallmeyer on the way out of the house.

He saw Mr. Gallmeyer sleeping and decided he was going to shoot him, Schultz said. He put the gun to his head and shot him like that and turned the bookcase over on him.

He said Patrie told him he took a TV, guns and a dummy camera.

The accounts given to the fellow inmates included Patries uncle, Hamm, taking part in the fatal robbery. Erickson said Patrie first told him Hamm was the one who fired the shot but later admitted he was the one.

Hamm denied any involvement in the crime and was never charged.

Erickson said Patries story later became part of a joke among inmates, cautioning others not to stand near bookcases when Patrie was around. He called it the Patrie Act.

Patrie didnt appreciate the humor.

He said it wasnt funny, and he was pretty upset and didnt talk to me for a couple of days, Erickson said.

Hamm also took the stand for the state, saying Patrie had talked about robbing Gallmeyer. He testified to jurors Wednesday he had told Patrie about rumors that Gallmeyer kept a safe full of cash at his house.

Hamm said he heard about the safe from a relative of his was who related to Gallmeyer and had gotten in trouble for allegedly taking money from it.

I just told him what Id heard, money taken from an open safe, Hamm told jurors.

Hamm also testified he once drove Patrie past Gallmeyers secluded home on 240th Street and pointed out the driveway.

Patrie asked if Gallmeyer had a dog, Hamm said. He said Patrie later told him he had approached Gallmeyers house, feigning car trouble to ask to use the phone so he could case the location, according to Hamms account.

Hamm said at one point Patrie tried to enlist his help.

He said he was going to rob him and wanted me to go with him, Hamm said. His words were it would be an easy mark.

Hamm said he declined.

The way he said it, I thought he was just kidding, Hamm said.

Also testifying Wednesday was Patries now ex-wife, Wendi Duncan. At the time of Gallmeyers death, she and Patrie were married, and she testified she heard pieces of Patries discussion with Hamm.

In Duncans version, it was Hamm who suggested Patrie could get some of the money from the safe, saying it would be an easy mark.

She said Patrie sounded interested, saying hed do it if he could get away with it.

Duncan also recounted going along when Hamm showed Patrie the location of Gallmeyers home.

On the night of the slaying, she said, Patrie stayed up after she went to bed, which was unusual. She said she awoke around midnight and found him on his computer.

Then around 2 a.m. she awoke again. This time, his car was gone, and he wasnt anywhere to be found.

I hollered his name, and he didnt answer me, Duncan said.

Duncan said Patrie returned home sometime after 7 a.m. and pulled his car into the backyard. He was unloading stuff out of the car. He had boxes of stuff, she said.

She also recounted how Patrie reacted days later when Gallmeyers death was on the news.

He had a shocked look on his face, and he turned white as a ghost and swallowed really hard, walked out of the room, she said.

During questioning, Hamm also denied elements of a statement Patrie later gave to investigators. On the stand Wednesday, Hamm denied ever borrowing Patries car, and denied he gave Patrie property from Gallmeyers home. He said he didnt participate in the robbery and had no role in Gallmeyers death.

In other testimony, jurors heard that investigators werent able to conclusively link a sawed-off Mossberg bolt-action .410-bore shotgun found in a kitchen cabinet in Patries Charles City home to Gallmeyers death.

Authorities recovered a spent plastic .410 shotgun wad during autopsy.

Ballistics expert Vic Murillo with the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation said the plastic wad had scrapes, indicating it was likely fired from a sawed-off weapon, metal burs on the muzzle from the alteration process making the scratches on the wad during firing.

But he said he wasnt able to match the scratches to the shotgun. He also said he couldnt rule out the weapon was used to kill Gallmeyer.
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CEDAR FALLS  Those passing over the Robert J. Hibbs Memorial Bridge this summer will see a number of banners honoring fallen veterans from the Cedar Valley.

Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post named in Hibbs honor placed the banners Thursday to help to ensure their comrades service is recognized. The Main Street bridge crosses the Cedar River north of First Street/Iowa Highway 57.

Its the culmination of several months of preparation, said Terry Stewart, a member of the Robert J. Hibbs VFW Post 3896. He was joined by other post members Tim Eich, Jerry Rasmussen and Henry Korf in placing the banners. They are similar to banners placed in communities like neighboring Waterloo.

Wed seen banners that were up and we thought we could do something like that over here to honor Robert J. Hibbs, said Stewart.

Hibbs was a Cedar Falls native and graduate of what is now the University of Northern Iowa. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was killed in combat on March 5, 1966. For his acts of courage and bravery, Hibbs was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States Armed Forces' highest military decoration.

On Veterans Day in 1997, Cedar Falls newly opened Main Street bridge was dedicated to Hibbs.

But Hibbs isnt the only veteran that the banners honor. The VFW members decorated a number of bridge posts to remember area veterans dedication and service.

This is a way to honor the folks who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to ensure that our country is free, said Krof. Freedom isnt free, and it takes sacrifice  and were honoring their service.

The VFW post recognizes veterans in a number of ways, working with different organizations in the Cedar Valley to assist them.

Well help veterans install ramps for their homes, help them find housing if they need it, said Eich. I mean, we do whatever we can for them.

And if we cant do it, we know someone who can, Krof added.

The VFW post can be found via Facebook at Robert J. Hibbs VFW Post 3896.

Im sure theres many veterans of foreign wars in the Cedar Valley who are eligible to join and were always looking for new members, said Stewart. The more the merrier!

The banners that now adorn the Robert J. Hibbs Memorial Bridge will remain up until Veterans Day in November.

Close A vehicle travels through a partially flooded street near Sergeant Road in Waterloo on Tuesday. A fallen tree branch in a yard on Home Park Boulevard sits where it was cut up after being knocked down from storm winds on Tuesday in Waterloo. Water from recent rainfall pools in a crop field south of Waterloo on Tuesday. Tree branches were knocked down by storm winds off of Hudson Road in Cedar Falls on Tuesday. Photos: Storm damage in Waterloo, Cedar Falls on Tuesday, May 21 Photos of storm damage in Waterloo and Cedar Falls on Tuesday, May21. A vehicle travels through a partially flooded street near Sergeant Road in Waterloo on Tuesday. A fallen tree branch in a yard on Home Park Boulevard sits where it was cut up after being knocked down from storm winds on Tuesday in Waterloo. Water from recent rainfall pools in a crop field south of Waterloo on Tuesday. Tree branches were knocked down by storm winds off of Hudson Road in Cedar Falls on Tuesday.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds requested an expedited presidential disaster declaration for four Iowa counties that suffered damage from severe storms and tornadoes on Tuesday.

The tornadoes that tracked across much of the state Tuesday left severe damage in Greenfield, Iowa, killing four people there and a fifth person in nearby Adams County. At least 35 others were injured, authorities said.

Weve had a lot of destruction and damages across the state, and hopefully well meet the criteria to qualify, Reynolds said during a news conference with Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell in Greenfield on Thursday.

Reynolds request covers Adair, Polk, Story and Montgomery counties. The letter requests activation of FEMAs Individual Assistance Program and the U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan program for all four counties. Reynolds also requested activation of FEMAs Public Assistance Program for Adair County, where Greenfield is.

More counties may be added once the request is approved, Reynolds office said.

Approval would open up the FEMA Individual Assistance Program and other aid for residents of those counties who lost property or income from the storm. The program provides households and businesses with housing assistance, property replacement and other aid. It does not cover any losses that are covered by insurance.

The FEMA Public Assistance Program would provide grants to state and local governments, as well as some nonprofits to assist in cleanup and recovery.

Criswell said on Thursday the agency was working through processing the disaster declaration request.

Me being on the ground here today really helps me understand the actual impact, Criswell said. ... We are going to continue to work with the governors team to assess all of the damages that have happened and make sure that whatever we can provide assistance for, that were able to do so.

Reynolds issued state disaster proclamations for 32 Iowa counties this week, which makes residents in those counties eligible for the state Individual Assistance Grant Program. Qualifying residents with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty line can receive $5,000 grants for expenses incurred by the storms.

Reynold said 153 homes were destroyed or suffered major damage in Adair County, eight in Montgomery County, 26 in Polk County and 15 in Story County.

After initially reporting EF-3 damage, the National Weather Service said Thursday they had identified damage consistent with an EF-4 tornado in Greenfield and Southern Adair County. EF-4 damage equates to winds between 175-185 miles per hour. The assessment may still be refined, the agency said.

Survey teams have identified EF4 damage in Greenfield and southern Adair county. Further refinement is possible in the days to come. We also will analyze damage downstream from a separate tornado.



NWS Des Moines expressed heartfelt condolences to those impacted. #iawx pic.twitter.com/hWZaQr9ds5  NWS Des Moines (@NWSDesMoines) May 23, 2024

The NWS said Thursday that a preliminary assessment found the tornado that traveled through Page, Adams and Montgomery counties was rated EF-3. The agency also confirmed the tornado that struck Polk and Story counties was an EF-2 tornado, with winds reaching up to 135 miles per hour.

Another tornado in southeast Adams County was identified, and the NWS said it identified damage consistent with an EF-0 tornado.

Criswell praised the efforts of first responders and the Greenfield community in their response to the disaster.

We also hear so many stories of hope and inspiration, of neighbors helping neighbors, she said. And I often say, theyre often the true first responders, because they know where the most vulnerable members of their community are.

Criswell encouraged people in the affected counties to take photos and document damage to their property, which can help in determining a disaster declaration.

Tuesdays severe weather comes about a month after several tornadoes struck Iowa in April, leading to severe damage in Minden and killing one person. Biden approved a federal disaster declaration for those counties last week.

More potential severe weather is forecast in western Iowa on Thursday night and into Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service. The agency is predicting thunderstorms, hail, damaging winds and possibly a few brief tornadoes.

What was the path of the tornadoes on Tuesday?

The National Weather Service has officially surveyed three tornadoes that struck Iowa on Tuesday.

We have completed PRELIMINARY work on the NW Adams Co tornado, which travelled through Page, Montgomery, and Adams Counties in Iowa.



Additional information on other tornadoes from 5/21 will be available later today. #iawx pic.twitter.com/ylumRmHf4Z  NWS Des Moines (@NWSDesMoines) May 23, 2024

Donna Dubberke, the chief meteorologist at NWS Des Moines, said the surveyed twisters covered more than 130 miles across the state. They formed over Montgomery and Page counties around 2:45 p.m. Tuesday.

The tornadoes strengthened as they moved northeast at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, Dubberke said. It took about one minute for the tornado to carve its destructive path across Greenfield, she said.

Photos: Tornado devastates Greenfield as powerful storms sweep through Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa Severe Weather Iowa
Yesterday late in the evening I returned from Iran, where, on the instructions of our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, I took part in the funeral ceremony of farewell to Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi and others who died in the plane crash.

Millions of mourners took to the streets of Tehran and other Iranian cities to say goodbye to their President.

Against this background, the statements of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the whole world and the Iranians themselves only benefited as a result of the tragic death of Raisi sounded cynical and inhumane.

Only a representative of a regime who lives in a full sense of its exclusivity can say this.

This boorish attitude is causing increasing irritation among citizens of other countries. Because of Washingtons policies, the very word American will soon become a dirty word throughout the world.

What do you think?

Volodin
The Nevada Supreme Court determined that an initiative requiring all voters to show identification at the polls is allowed to move forward.

The group "Repair the Vote" wants to put the initiative on the November ballot.

Jennifer Fleischmann filed a complaint in court to try to prevent the initiative from moving forward.

She first argued that because the process of getting a government ID costs money, and there is no proposed tax or way of raising money, the initiative would be an "unfunded mandate" and is therefore illegal under the Nevada Constitution.

She said that if the initiative were to pass, there would need to be a way for voters to receive free identification for the law to be compliant.

The court found that it could not make a determination on the constitutionality of the initiative at this time.

Fleischmann's second argument was that the initiative's description was not legally sufficient.

The description reads as follows:

"If passed, this initiative would amend the State Constitution to require that all persons voting in person present an approved photo identification before being provided a ballot. It also requires that voters submitting a mail-in ballot provide additional verification of their identity when completing their mail-in ballot."

The court concluded that the description is legally sufficient, despite the fact that a longer description could have explained it better.

According to Repair the Vote, they need to collect 102,362 signatures with 25,591 from each Congressional District by Wednesday, June 26, for the initiative to appear on the ballot.

We've reached out to the Nevada Secretary of State's office for a comment.
The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority is celebrating the opening of Stellar Aviation's new building on the corner of Rock Boulevard and Mill Street.

Stellar Aviation has been working for five years to make this facility a reality.

They have a multitude of facilities around the United States, but they're newly expanding to the West Coast.

They have facilities in the Midwest and south Florida but this is their first expansion to the western U.S. including a new facility in Carson City, and they plan to open two more on this side of the country.

They hope the new building will help enhance aviation services in our area.

"We're so excited to open this up and when we talk about the people that we serve, there was not the infrastructure to service a lot of the aircraft necessary as the area has expanded," said Brad Kost, the COO of Stellar Aviation Group. "As more people moved into the area more businesses have moved into the area. It's become a little more industrial more tech we have this facility behind me to have their airplanes here and service their mission."

"We have over 50 employees in the area here," he added. "This facility itself created 50 high paying jobs in the area and has a significant economic impact here because this is the first facility people see when they come in and out."

They also told us they provide fuel and support services for the military.

"One of the most important things we do here for the community is medevac hospital systems, law enforcement, and to serve the military," he said. "So it's big for us to serve that aspect of it and with these new facilities and large apron and new terminal building this is dedicated to them."

To create the space it was a $14 million dollar private investment. That investment built a 5,000 square foot terminal building to serve the public, in addition to the 30,000 square foot hangar, 8,000 square foot office space and five and a half acres of asphalt and tarmac to make up the entire facility.

"One of the things that attracted our business to this area was the forward-thinking board of trustees and the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority because we need a safe place to conduct business with those who are pro-business and they want to grow this area, and now with the influx of people and population base and businesses coming in here the airport is growing to meet those challenges and me that growth," he said.

They say they're also planning more construction on the building over the next two decades.


Letter of Intent with UTEM

Sydney, May 23, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - AdvanceTC Ltd ( ATCLF:OTCMKTS ) ( NSX:A88 ) is pleased to inform that it has entered into a Letter of Intent with UTEM to share expertise and work together towards the company's direction to design and develop a 'Self Rechargeable Graphene Based Battery' for its mobile devices use. The LOI was concluded and signed by both parties on 20th May 2024, with AdvanceTC represented by Mr Loi Cheng Pheng (Executive Chairman / CEO) and the Top Management/Researchers of UTEM, represented by Assoc. Prof. IR. TS. Dr. Mohd Shukor Bin Salleh and Prof. IR. Dr. Mohd Asyadi Azam Bin Mohd Abid.



The collaboration shall encompass on the following areas:-



1. UTEM to provide their existing Graphene battery pack design to incorporate into AdvanceTC's devices.



2. To work with AdvanceTC and our US NTEG partner to design and integrate the New Thermal Power Generator technology into their current battery pack to achieve the self-rechargeable AdvanceTC battery pack.



3. UTEM to provide/supply Graphene materials to AdvanceTC for our production of the NTEG Renewable Energy panels.



4. Research and Development collaboration on new products and technologies.



About Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTEM)



Established on 1st December 2000 as the 1st Technical Public University in Malaysia. Located in the UNESCO world heritage city of Melaka, Set within 766 acres of lush verdant landscape boasting state-of-the art facilities in all its seven faculties.



As a Focus University, UTEM boasts strengths in technical fields - namely Engineering, IT, and Management Technology. UTEM has cemented a reputation of being a source of high-quality engineering graduates with the capability of meeting the requirements of high-tech industries.



UTeM also has research competencies in areas that it has identified as being key to enhancing the University's unique proposition and also contributes to the nation such as Green Technology, Systems Engineering, Human-Technology Interaction, and Emerging Technology.



The Company believes that with UTEM's experiences & expertise, couple with our own Dr Hector's knowhow and patented technology (NTEG system), the Company will be able to achieve a significant breakthrough in this quest accordingly.





About AdvanceTC Limited





AdvanceTC is a premier technology company specializing in the design and development of mobile telecommunication and computing devices. AdvanceTC is listed on NSX Australia (NSX:A88). More information on the company can be found at www.advancetc.com

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IMARC 2024: Accelerating the Mining Industry's Pathway to Net Zero

Sydney, May 24, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The conference program for International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) 2024 launched this week, and features industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers set to explore how the mining sector can expedite its journey towards net zero.



With organisations worldwide committing to net zero targets by 2050, and some of the more ambitious aiming for 2030, the mining sector's role in this transition is more critical than ever.



Organised by Beacon Events, IMARC 2024 will delve into strategies for accelerating the extraction of critical minerals essential for low-emission technologies while ensuring the entire value chain reduces its carbon footprint. The conference will emphasise responsible mining practices and adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, aiming to balance efficiency and effectiveness with sustainability.



"IMARC 2024 is about creating a roadmap for the mining industry to meet its net zero commitments," said Sherene Asnasyous, Event Director - Content & Partnerships of IMARC. "The program will highlight how the sector can fast-track the extraction of vital minerals and integrate innovative technologies to decarbonise operations. Our goal is to provide actionable insights and strategies that industry leaders can implement to drive meaningful change."



IMARC 2024 features speakers from organisations such as Newmont, Alcoa, Vale, Evolution Mining, the Minerals Council of Australia, Climate Energy Finance, Pollination and more, exploring themes including; Fast Tracking the Critical Minerals Value Chain; Operationalising the Energy Transition Through Innovation and Collaboration; Responsible Mining Initiatives that Contribute to Shared Prosperity; Speeding up the Project Lifecyle to Develop the Mines of the Future Quicker; and Leveraging Technology and Innovation to Achieve Productivity and Operational Excellence. Participants will also gain valuable insights from case studies of companies already making significant strides towards net zero.



As Australia's largest mining event, IMARC 2024 will not only spotlight Australia's efforts but will also provide a global perspective on how different nations are supporting the transition to net zero. The event aims to foster international cooperation and trade, and drive the mining industry towards a sustainable future.



"IMARC 2024 will serve as a pivotal platform for the global mining community to collaborate and share best practices," said Anita Richards, Chief Operating Officer of Beacon Events. "By bringing together stakeholders from key mining jurisdictions such as Canada, Chile, Peru, and Mongolia, as well as countries involved in downstream and midstream processes like the UK, Germany, Sweden, Japan, Korea, and the USA, we can collectively advance the industry's net zero agenda."



With upwards of 9,000 delegates from over 120 countries, including 50+ government delegations, IMARC will be one of the most internationally attended business events in Australia this year. IMARC will also feature several co-located events in 2024, including the AROSE Mining & Space Conference. Curated by Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE), and open to all IMARC attendees, the conference theme is "Where space exploration meets mining innovation," showcasing requirements, capabilities, and collaborations between the two industries.



Another new feature in 2024 will be the addition of IMARC Executive Briefings. These focused 2-hour sessions will bring together industry leaders and policymakers to review critical topics poised to shape the future of the industry, including ESG Data & Disclosure, Managing WHS Risks in Mining, and Tailings Dam Management. More information on these sessions will be announced soon.



IMARC 2024 will take place at the ICC Sydney from 29-31 October. Also running alongside IMARC this year will be the inaugural Mining, Metals, and the Circular Economy conference. Taking place on 29-30 October 2024, this conference will provide attendees with unprecedented access to local and international industry thought leaders in the mining sector to explore the global context of process and product circularity throughout the mining industry's value chain.





About International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC)





The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) is where global mining leaders collaborate on trends in mining, investment and innovation towards a sustainable future. As Australias largest mining event, it brings together over 9,000 decision makers, mining leaders, policy makers, investors, commodity buyers, technical experts, innovators, and educators from more than 120 countries for three days of learning, deal-making and unparalleled networking. IMARC is developed in collaboration with its founding partners the Victorian State Government, Austmine, the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) and Mines and Money, and held with the support of its Host Partner, the NSW Government.

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JAKARTA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia was formally appointed on Friday during the closing ceremony of the 10th World Water Forum on Indonesia's Bali to be the host country for the 11th World Water Forum in 2027.

Under Indonesia's chairmanship, the 10th World Water Forum has adopted a ministerial declaration that highlights three priorities.

The first priority is the establishment of a center of excellence for water security and climate resilience for capacity building, knowledge sharing and utilization of superior facilities. The second priority is to raise and promote the issue of integrated water resources management on small islands, and the third is the commemoration of the World Lakes Day proposal.

The declaration was adopted at the conclusion of the ministerial meeting attended by 106 countries and 27 international organizations.

The global water and sanitation community forum has been held every three years since 1997. 
Blink Digital is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Meta and Only Much Louder to deliver an intensive one-day workshop on 28th May, focused on the power of Reels in performance marketing. This initiative aims to educate brands and marketers on creating compelling, thumb-stopping content that drives both engagement and action. With the growing importance of short-form video content, the workshop will highlight the benefits of investing in Reels as high-performing assets.

Blink Digital, an award-winning independent digital agency, aims to bring their learning of global clients to india. With a staggering 100M spent on reel by Blink last year, the session will be power packed with insights and learnings with Meta as a leading discovery platform and Only Much Louder enhancing the focus on creator content, this workshop represents a unique opportunity for brands and creators alike to stay ahead in the dynamic field of performance marketing

Gaurav Singh, Head of Agency at Meta, India, will deliver the keynote address, setting the stage for a series of sessions and workshops. Topics include Reels in Modern Marketing by Anoop Menon, Agency Partner at Meta, India, and Creating High Performance Reels by Dia Kirpalani, Head of Creative Strategy at Blink Digital.

"This initiative is designed to educate brands at the forefront of the digital ecosystem," says Rikki Agarwal, Co-founder and COO of Blink Digital. He adds, "Utilizing short-form video content on Reels is crucial for brands to thrive online. We grasp the nuances of the global market and aim to bring those insights to India. At Blink Digital, we are convinced that creativity is paramount, and when executed well, it drives the performance brands require."

Gunjan Arya, CEO of Only Much Louder, added, "We are excited to bring our network of creators and brand partners to this workshop, with whom OML has had the privilege to keep in step with as the platform has grown. Borrowing from our insights having worked with over 10,000+ creators in 20+ countries, we are offering participants real-world insights and practical tips on creating impactful Reels. We assure that everyone attending will gain valuable knowledge and skills, making this workshop beneficial for both brands and creators alike.

Join us for an exclusive session where we share our insider secrets. Learn how to optimise your media spends, ensure each investment delivers exceptional ROI, and drive remarkable growth. RSVP now to secure your spot and take the first step toward unlocking your brand's full potential.
Elon Musk's artificial intelligence (AI) venture, xAI, is on the cusp of securing a massive $6 billion funding round, according to media reports. This significant investment, backed by Silicon Valley giants Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, and Tribe Capital, would propel xAI's valuation to a staggering $18 billion.

The news comes amidst a red-hot AI race, with investors pouring money into startups aiming to challenge established leaders like OpenAI. PitchBook data reveals a surge in venture capital funding for AI startups, jumping from $16.36 billion in Q1 2023 to a staggering $19.15 billion this year.

Representatives for Musk and the investment firms have yet to comment on the reported funding round.

This development underscores the intensifying competition within the AI landscape. With xAI poised to receive a substantial financial boost, the race to develop the most advanced and impactful AI technology is sure to heat up even further.
As the buzz intensifies surrounding the highly-anticipated return of India's legendary superhero, Shaktimaan, to the silver screen, fans everywhere are eagerly counting down the days until they can witness his triumphant comeback. But while you wait for the iconic hero's revival, why not indulge in some thrilling superhero escapades to satiate your appetite for adventure?

Heres a list of five must-revisit shows, OTT audio series, and films that promise to ignite your imagination and keep you entertained until Shaktimaan graces us once again with his presence.

Shaktimaan

Shaktimaan, portrayed as an individual who achieved extraordinary abilities through meditation and harnessing the five elements of nature: Space, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Produced by Mukesh Khanna, he portrayed the character of Shaktimaan along with his alter ego, 'Pandit Gangadhar Vidhyadhar Mayadhar Omkarnath Shastri,' who worked as a photographer for the newspaper 'Aaj Ki Aawaz.'

Krrish

Krrish, a young man with extraordinary super powers, develops romantic feelings for Priya and travels to Singapore to reunite with her. However, upon uncovering a startling revelation concerning his father's demise, he is compelled to employ his superhuman abilities.

The New Avatar

Prince Daksh is betrayed and killed by his fiancee, Chinai, who ascends to the throne. Daksh's soul reincarnates into a young boy's body, determined to seek justice. As both a prince and a vulnerable child, Daksh embarks on a quest for truth. Tune in to The New Avatar on Pocket FM to discover what unfolds next.

Super Yoddha

When a child genius becomes the highest ranking member of a 100-year-old tribe, it creates history. However, his success is short-lived and is out-stripped of the rank until his fiance presents him with an opportunity to win it back. But the odds are high and at stake is the honor of his clan. Heres the thrill-inducing story of Super Yoddha only on Pocket FM.

Minnal Murali

One of the first superhero movies from the Malayalam industry, the film follows the story of Jaison, who develops superpower abilities after being struck by lightning. He must use his special powers to defeat his adversary and save his village from ruins.
Brimming with confidence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "I believe God has ordained that I should work 24x7 till 2047 to achieve the aim of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India)."

He was replying to questions from Rajat Sharma at 'Salaam India' show, that telecasted on 23rd May at 9 pm on India TV.

Modi said: "I feel, God Almighty has sent me for a special purpose. God has sent me to achieve the objective of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. God is showing me the path, God is giving me the energy. I am fully confident I will achieve that target by 2047 and until that target is achieved, God will not call me back (Jab Tak Poora Nahin Hota, Mujhe Parmatma Waapas Nahin Bulayenge). I do not have any other place in this world now excdept this." Modi is presently 74 years old.

Modi said, "400 Paar" is a slogan not coined by BJP, but by the people. "We were already 400 in strength in Parliament during the last five years, given the support that we got from other parties. Any child who gets 95 per cent marks will naturally strive for a higher target."

LEVEL-PLAYING FIELD

Modi hit out at Congress and other opposition parties for complaining that they have not been given a level-playing field in this election. He reminded how the then Chief Election Commissioner (T.N.Seshan) postponed polling across the country in 1991 for 22 days after Congress leader Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in Sriperumbudur on May 21, 1991, when only one round of polling was over. Elections were postponed till mid-June and voting finally took place on June 12 and 15.

"Was that a level-playing field?", asked PM Modi. He said, "Normally, when a candidate dies, election in that constituency is countermanded, but in 1991, election across the country was postponed and polling resumed only after tthe funeral of the departed leader was widely publicized".

"The same person (T.N.Seshan), after retirement, fought against our party president ( L K Advani) in Gandhinagar in 1999 on a Congress ticket", Modi said.

Asked why two serving chief ministers (in Delhi and Jharkhand) were jailed when election process was on, Modi replied: "We did not send them to jail. The courts sent the two chief ministers to jail. We do not have the power to send somebody to jail or keep anybody in jail. Courts have the powers. Look at what Supreme Court said in the ex-Jharkhand CM (Hemant Soren)'s case. Look at what Delhi High Court said about ex-minister (Manish Sisodia) in money laundering case. People have seen huge loads of cash in crores seized by Enforcement Directorate. All of us should honour ED for seizing Rs 2200 crores in cash, which can be filled up in at least 70 tempos, while during 10-years of UPA rule, ED had seized onlty Rs 34 lakh cash which can be stuffed in a school bag."

Modi hit out at the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi liquor case, saying : "They wanted to spoil the lives of children by opening liquor outlets near schools, offered one liquor bottle free for every bottle sold, because they were getting commission on the number of bottles sold...Let me make this very clear. I won the 2014 elections only because I had promised to take action against the corrupt. I was elected only because of that. Big leaders used to get away away scot-free. I do not run this government for getting nice editorials or good TV headlines. My government works to stamp out corruption."

PAKISTAN

On Pakistan's allegation about Indian hand behind "targeted assassinations by unknown killers" of terrorists in that country, Modi replied: " That is not the issue. I know, people of Pakistan are nowadays worried. I also know that I am the root cause of their worries (Main Jaanta Hoon Unki Pareshani Ka Kaaran Main Hoon). But I also know that some people in our own country are also worried. Woh rote Rahen Samajh Me Aa Sakta Hai, Yahan Waale Kyun rote hain, Main Samajh Nahin Sakta Hoon (I can understand when they weep, but I cannot understand why our people weep)."

Modi cited example of how "the leader of a respected party, that ruled out country for 60 years, and during whose rule 26/11 Mumbai attacks took place, once alleged that it was not Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Kasab and his men, but our own people who killed our own countrymen. This is really saddening. How can such a leader give statement in favour of Pakistan and Ajmal Kasab? My head hangs in shame whenever I hear such remark. I feel pained."

On Mani Shankar Aiyar's remark that India should accord respect to Pakistan because it has atom bombs, Modi, in a light-hearted manner replied: "Taaqat Main Khud Pakistan Jaake Check Karke Aaya Hoon (I've myself gone to Pakistan and checked their power). I landed in Lahore without any security checks, and one of their TV reporters was saying Hai Allah, Modi has landed in Pakistan without any visa. Yes this was in their live debates. Main Kyun Nahin Ja Sakta, Woh Mera Desh Tha Kizi Zamaane Mein (Why can't I do, Pakistan was part of our country at one time)"

On one Shiv Sena (UBT) leader predicting that Modi may send trainload of devotees to the new Ram temple in Ayodhya before elections and Pakistan may blow up the train, leading to riots and making Modi's election easier, Modi replied: "Why can't journalists go and ask that leader, why he is not taking medicines or get a medical check-up done. Was any train blown up? Did riots take place? He should get his diseased mindset checked."
New research from the worlds leading learning company, Pearson, shows the huge potential of Generative AI for enhancing workplace productivity by assisting Indian workers for saving 51 million hours a week on the routine and repetitive tasks that often fill their day, leading to burnout.

The latest instalment of Pearsons Skills Outlook series, Reclaim the Clock: How Generative AI Can Power People at Work - looks ahead to 2026 and identifies the top 10 job tasks with the most time saved by using the technology, in five countries (Australia, Brazil, India, UK and US).

Pearsons workforce planning platform, powered by generative AI, finds that the work Gen AI can most effectively support is focused on tasks related to maintaining records, data collection, or researching and compiling information for others.

The ten work tasks with the most hours saved by Gen AI by 2026 in India are:

Promote products, services, or programs (4,386,799 hours) Collect data about consumer needs or opinions (3,874,794 hours) Develop marketing or promotional materials (3,513,913 hours) Identify business or organizational opportunities (3,219,578 hours) Explain technical details of products or services (3,095,700 hours) Maintain current knowledge in area of expertise (2,625,409 hours) Maintain operational records (2,602,099 hours) Communicate with others about operational plans or activities (1,798,296 hours) Examine materials or documentation for accuracy or compliance (1,575,060 hours) Evaluate the quality or accuracy of data (1,568,961 hours)

By augmenting basic tasks with generative AI, companies and their workers can reallocate time to focus on the high-value work that humans do best: strategic thinking, collaboration, caring for others, decision-making, innovation, problem-solving, empathy, and leadership.

At an individual level, even small amounts of time saved with Generative AI can help people feel more in control of their job and achieve a better work-life balance.

Oliver Latham, VP of Strategy and Growth for Pearson Workforce Skills, said: In nearly every workplace, people spend their day on common, time-consuming tasks that eat away at productivity or their work-life balance. If those tasks could be augmented with generative AI, employers and their workers could reallocate time to the things that need a more human touch and mean more to their customers. Employers should consider how to incorporate this new technology into their teams and redesign roles to free people up to focus on more valuable, human tasks. They should also consider the need for training and support for employees, so they can use it effectively and responsibly.

Methodology:

At Pearson we believe that the future of work can be one where people and Gen AI can collaborate by using AI as a tool to enhance human potential. For this study, Pearson used census and other workforce datasets to create a single view of the current workforce in the US, UK, Australia, India and Brazil. Using Pearsons proprietary occupations ontology of 5,600 jobs and 76,000 tasks, each job can be viewed as a collection of tasks. This allows our machine learning algorithms to calculate future technology impact at a task level.

Pearson looked at hours currently spent, countrywide, in India on work tasks each week, and then calculated what this would be in three years' time as Gen AI technology is adopted into the workplace. We then identified the tasks which would have the greatest hours reduced by the technology (specifically LLM Chatbots and AI Text-to-Visual Media Generators).
Goafest, South Asias premier festival celebrating creativity excellence, continues to drive industry growth and collaboration. This year, the festival has achieved remarkable success with a surge in delegate entries and unprecedented support from industry leaders. Scheduled to take place from 29th to 31st May at the Westin Mumbai, Powai Lake, this year's event has drawn increased participation from agencies and clients of all scales, underscoring its expanding influence and reach.

The 17th edition of Goafest boasts of an impressive line-up with delegation from media agencies including Havas Media, Publicis Media, Group M, Madison Communications, Initiative Media, OMD, and Zenith Optimedia, among others. Creative powerhouses TLG India, L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, Leo Burnett, FCB Group, Havas Worldwide are also on board, along with brands like Nestle, Tips Industries, Kotak General Insurance, and Airtel. Media giants Bennett Coleman, ABP Group, Zee Media, Navabharat Media Network, et al have also shown unwavering registration support. The festival's appeal spans multinational agencies to smaller firms, showcasing its inclusive ethos.

Goafest remains a pivotal industry event, driving innovation, creativity, and collaboration year after year. It's a hub for professionals to share ideas, learn from experts, and showcase groundbreaking work. The festival's impact resonates throughout the industry, inspiring creativity and enhancing professional networks.

Sam Balsara, Chairman of the Delegates Committee - Goafest 2024, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, Goafest has always been a beacon of creativity and innovation in the advertising industry. This year's entries have set a new benchmark for excellence. The support from the industry has been overwhelming, and the record number of registrations is a clear indicator of the vibrant and dynamic nature of advertising media and marketing industry.

The steadfast support of industry leaders has been instrumental in the success of past editions. Sponsors, partners, and endorsers have enhanced the festival's offerings, providing a seamless and enriching experience for attendees. Their contributions have elevated Goafest, cementing its status as a premier festival in the industry calendar.
Amazon miniTV, Amazons free video streaming service, recently released the much-awaited aspirational drama Jamnapaar, which follows the story of Shantanu Bansal aka Shanky, a young man from East Delhi. Struggling with feelings of inferiority about his Jamnapaar roots, Shanky aspires to leave his traditional upbringing behind for a glamorous corporate life in South Delhi. The story delves into the clash of ideologies within his family and his struggle to fit into a world that seems out of reach. Along with an aspiring narrative, emotional connection, and deep-rooted characters, here are the top 5 reasons to watch Jamnapaar on Amazon miniTV.

An exploration of Identity and Roots:Jamnapaar offers a riveting narrative that follows Shantanu Bansal's journey of self-discovery as he navigates the divide between his East Delhi roots and his ambitions for a cool corporate life in South Delhi. The series beautifully sheds light on the importance of embracing one's roots, making it a relatable and thought-provoking watch for anyone grappling with their sense of identity.

Emotional yetthought-provoking storyline: The storyline tackles real-life issues such as social pressure, inferiority complex, and the quest for acceptance, all while celebrating the strength found in family and friendship. Exploring the clash between personal aspirations and familial expectations, the series emphasizes the sacrifices and choices one must make along the way. The heartfelt narrative will strike a chord with people juggling between career ambitions and family life.

Authentic portrayal of Delhis diverselifestyles: Set against the backdrop of Delhi, the series authentically captures the stark contrasts between the East and the South. From the bustling, tradition-rich streets of Jamnapaar to the modern, corporate environment of South Delhi, the series paints a vivid picture of the city's diverse lifestyles and cultural dynamics.

Powerful performances from talented cast:Featuring Ritvik Sahore, Varun Badola, Raghu Ram, Srishti Ganguly Rindani, and Ankita Saigal, Jamnapaar boasts a stellar ensemble cast, each bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. Through their compelling performances, they convey complex emotions with ease, taking the viewers into the world of Jamnapaar while making their struggles and triumphs feel personal and relatable.
News Corp and OpenAI have announced a historic, multi-year agreement to bring News Corp news content to OpenAI. Through this partnership, OpenAI has permission to display content from News Corp mastheads in response to user questions and to enhance its products, with the ultimate objective of providing people the ability to make informed choices based on reliable information and news sources.

OpenAI will receive access to current and archived content from News Corps major news and information publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Barrons, MarketWatch, Investors Business Daily, FN, and New York Post; The Times, The Sunday Times and The Sun; The Australian, news.com.au, The Daily Telegraph, The Courier Mail, The Advertiser, and Herald Sun; and others. The partnership does not include access to content from any of News Corps other businesses.

In addition to providing content, News Corp will share journalistic expertise to help ensure the highest journalism standards are present across OpenAIs offering.

We believe an historic agreement will set new standards for veracity, for virtue and for value in the digital age. We are delighted to have found principled partners in Sam Altman and his trusty, talented team who understand the commercial and social significance of journalists and journalism. This landmark accord is not an end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship in which we are jointly committed to creating and delivering insight and integrity instantaneously" said Robert Thomson, Chief Executive of News Corp

Our partnership with News Corp is a proud moment for journalism and technology. We greatly value News Corps history as a leader in reporting breaking news around the world, and are excited to enhance our users access to its high-quality reporting. Together, we are setting the foundation for a future where AI deeply respects, enhances, and upholds the standards of world-class journalism" said Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI.
Explainer: Int'l community welcomes Ireland, Spain, Norway's recognition of a Palestinian state

Xinhua) 09:11, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced on Wednesday their official recognition of Palestine as a state. The decision came amid international outrage over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following Israel's military operation.

Global reactions to the recognition varied, with dozens of countries welcoming the decision.

The Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit said the recognition sends the right message to the Palestinians that the world is willing to defend their right to self-determination and to be an independent state.

In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry urged countries that have not taken this step to push forward with recognizing a Palestine state to uphold the values of justice and support the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday welcomed the decision, saying that this represents a step toward implementing the two-state solution.

Qatar welcomed the recognition and considered this a significant step in supporting the two-state solution and achieving peace and stability in the region, said the Qatari Foreign Ministry on Wednesday.

The ministry stressed "the need to end the war on the Gaza Strip immediately and return to the political track as the only guarantee to achieve stability in the region."

In response to the news that Spain and Ireland said they are going to recognize the Palestinian State, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said China always firmly supports the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights, supports the two-State solution and is one of the first countries to recognize the State of Palestine.

China will continue to work with the international community to play a constructive role in ending the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as early as possible and promoting a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian question, the spokesperson added.

In Europe, Malta, Slovenia, and Slovakia expressed support, with Slovenia also taking steps toward recognizing Palestine, while the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, and Lithuania expressed reservations.

Israel, infuriated by the decision, perceived it as a form of reward for Hamas militants. "The intention of several European countries to recognize a Palestinian state is a reward for terrorism," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. The country swiftly recalled its ambassadors from Ireland, Norway, and Spain.

The U.S. government pushed back against a move from Ireland, Spain, and Norway to recognize a Palestinian state. "The president is a strong supporter of a two-state solution and has been throughout his career," a National Security Council spokesperson was quoted by CNN as saying.

"He believes a Palestinian state should be realized through direct negotiations between the parties, not through unilateral recognition," the spokesperson added.

Observers noted that the three countries' recognition could generate momentum for other nations to recognize a Palestinian state and might further isolate Israel. In March, Malta and Slovenia, alongside Spain and Ireland said they were considering recognizing a Palestinian state as "a positive contribution" toward ending the conflict.

More than 140 countries have already recognized a Palestinian state, representing over two-thirds of the United Nations' membership. However, none of the major Western countries have taken this step, making the recognition a notable achievement for the Palestinians.

Diplomatic pressure on Israel has also grown as there is a sign of growing international support for Palestine's UN membership. On May 11, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution, recognizing Palestine as qualified to join, with 143 votes in favor and nine against, including the United States and Israel, while 25 countries abstained.

The Palestinians demand the establishment of an independent state alongside Israel with pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as its capital.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev speaks at the 46th Singapore Lecture in Singapore, May 24, 2024. Tokayev paid a state visit to Singapore from Wednesday to Friday. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua)

SINGAPORE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Singapore and Kazakhstan have signed agreements in economic cooperation, higher education, intellectual property rights protection, legal cooperation, security cooperation, and standards, Singapore's Foreign Ministry said in a statement Friday.

The agreements were signed during Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's state visit to Singapore from Wednesday to Friday.

Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam received Tokayev. Both presidents welcomed stronger connectivity and people-to-people exchange through education, cultural exchanges, and tourism.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Tokayev discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in areas including education, food security, green energy, and digitalization.

Tokayev also met with other senior Singaporean officials. 

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev speaks at the 46th Singapore Lecture in Singapore, May 24, 2024. Tokayev paid a state visit to Singapore from Wednesday to Friday. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua)
State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation

Bern, 24.05.2024 - On May 24, 2024, Switzerland and the United States convened in Bern for the inaugural Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) on science and technology to further strengthen the partnership between their scientific communities. Swiss State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation Martina Hirayama and U.S. Charges d'Affaires, a.i., Bradford Bell, opened the JCM. Ambassador Jacques Ducrest, Head of International Relations at SERI, co-chaired the discussion with Rahima Kandahari, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Oceans, and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES).

State Secretary Hirayama emphasized the paramount importance of the United States as a key partner for Switzerland in science and technology and underscored the critical role of international collaboration for Switzerland. Deputy Assistant Secretary Kandahari applauded the 171 years of diplomatic engagement between the two countries and emphasized how science and technology cooperation exemplifies the mutual benefits of the productive U.S.-Switzerland relationship.

The Swiss delegation comprised leaders and experts from the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS), Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM), Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), Swiss Innovation Agency Innosuisse, Swiss Polar Institute (SPI), Swiss Quantum Commission (SQC), the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW) and the ETH AI Center. The U.S. delegation included leaders and experts from the National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. Department of Energy, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), U.S. Geological Survey, and the U.S. Department of State. The meeting was convened under the bilateral Agreement Relating to Scientific and Technical Cooperation between the two governments, signed in 2009.

The two countries are sister republics with shared values, anchored by a collective commitment to build resilient, inclusive democracies, and advance human rights. This in-person bilateral dialogue on science and technology cooperation broadens and strengthens our collaboration and commitment to each other. Continued scientific engagement and people-to-people ties between Switzerland and the United States will not only propel both economies forward, but also lead toward a more resilient future.

Switzerland and the United States collaborate on virtually every pressing challenge of our time, from critical and emerging science and technology, to addressing the climate crisis to creating a more prosperous future for our peoples. Both partners work to create inclusive scientific research communities to consider the importance of preserving principles for scientific cooperation, such as promoting the integrity and security of the international scientific enterprise, to encouraging the participation of researchers and organizations from all sectors in cooperative activities.

The JCM reaffirmed the Swiss-U.S. commitment to continue the close partnership and coordination on science and technology cooperation.

This press release was jointly published by the Governments of the United States and Switzerland and the United States at the U.S.-Switzerland Joint Committee Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation.

Address for enquiries

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI

medien@sbfi.admin.ch



Bureau of Oceans, and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs OES

OES-Press@state.gov

Publisher

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation

http://www.sbfi.admin.ch




Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Bern, 24.05.2024 - On 24 May 2024, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution for the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel in conflict zones. The resolution, which was negotiated and submitted by Switzerland to the Security Council for a vote, highlights the country's long-standing commitment to the protection of civilians  a priority of the Federal Council for Switzerland's 202324 term on the council.

The number of armed conflicts worldwide is increasing rapidly. While the world was confronted with around 20 conflicts at the turn of the millennium, this number has now surged to over 120 armed conflicts. Millions of people on almost every continent are in need of humanitarian aid, while the humanitarian and UN personnel providing this vital aid are facing increasing pressure and becoming victims of attacks themselves. More than 500 humanitarian aid workers were victims of violence in 2023, with over 250 killed. Over the past decade, the number of victims from humanitarian aid organisations has risen by more than 50%, with 90% of those affected being national or local employees.

Switzerland is deeply concerned about the increasing violence against people who provide aid. Such attacks take place in all conflict regions and often hinder life-saving measures. As an elected member of the UN Security Council, Switzerland took the initiative to negotiate a draft resolution on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel. The adoption of the resolution is an important signal for the protection of civilians. The resolution garnered widespread support, with a total of 98 UN member states co-sponsoring the initiative.

Through this resolution, the Security Council specifically calls on UN member states to fulfil their obligations under international law to protect humanitarian and UN personnel, including national and local staff, as well as their premises and assets. The resolution also addresses emerging threats faced by humanitarian and UN personnel, including disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining their work. The Security Council expressly calls on all states, as well as state and non-state parties to conflicts, to respect and protect humanitarian and UN personnel. The resolution mandates the UN secretary-general to provide the Security Council with concrete recommendations within six months on how to better prevent such attacks and combat impunity.

The adoption of this resolution not only reinforces Switzerland's enduring commitment to humanitarian principles but also serves as a timely reminder of the importance of international humanitarian law, especially as we approach the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions in August. Providing support and protection to people in need is a cornerstone of Switzerland's Foreign Policy Strategy 202427.

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




The 20th Ordinary Meeting of the East African Community Council of Ministers is scheduled to run from 19 to 26 March 2010 at the Arusha International Conference Centre.

The 20th Ordinary Meeting of the EAC Council of Ministers will be attended by among others; Hon. Dr. Diodorus Kamala, Minister of East African Co-operation of the United Republic of Tanzania and who is also the Chairperson of the Council; Hon. Monique Mukaruliza, Minister for East African Community Affairs of the Republic of Rwanda; Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs of the Republic of Uganda; Hon. Amason Jeffah Kingi, Minister of East African Community of the Republic of Kenya; and Hon. Hafsa Mossi, Minister of East African Community Affairs of the Republic of Burundi.

The meeting of Senior Officials of the Co-ordination Committee will be held from Friday 19 to Tuesday 23 March; the session of the Co-ordination Committee (Permanent Secretaries) is on Wednesday 24 March; and the Ministerial Session takes place Friday 26 March 2010.

The Council is expected to consider and make recommendations on several reports from EAC Organs which include; the Secretariat, the East African Legislative Assembly and the East African Court of Justice; and Institutions which include; Lake Victoria Basin Commission, Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization, the Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA), the East African Development Bank, and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).

Other items due for consideration are the draft EAC Annual Reports for the FY 2007/2008 and 2008/2009; and a progress report on the implementation of the East African Community Common Market Protocol.

The EAC Council of Ministers is the Policy Organ of the Community and consists of the Ministers responsible for the East African Community Affairs of each Partner State and such other Ministers of the Partner States as each Partner State may determine.

Visit the link below for more information on the Council of Ministers:

Source: East African Community (EAC)
The East African Community Secretariat has stepped up preparations for the 3rd EAC Investment Conference confirming the date and theme for the event due in April. The 3rd EAC Investment Conference will take place from 27 to 30 April, 2010 at the Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Uganda.

The Conference theme; EAC Common Market: The preferred Investment Destination for Expanded Opportunities, is a reflection of the trajectory the EAC integration project has taken, with the EAC Common Market Protocol set to come into effect in July this year.

H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda, is expected to grace the official opening of the Conference, which will also be attended by other EAC Heads of State. The Conference will bring together policy makers, business leaders and the regional and international investor community to review the investment outlook of the EAC region and discuss investment opportunities. Over 2000 participants are expected to attend the Conference. This years conference will also herald the launch of the World Banks EACs Doing Business Report 2010, the first ever initiative of its kind.

Key topics such as climate change and food security, commercialising agriculture, competitiveness and value addition, investing in renewable energy and extractive industries and reforms that make doing business in all these areas more conducive will be highlights of the conference.

In keeping with a tradition that has earned the Conference popularity and respect since its inception, the event shall showcase the various investment opportunities that EAC offers, including the possibilities of joint partnerships, direct investments, industrial growth and economic development.

Also planned is the launch of the EAC Investor of the Year Awards which will recognise and encourage cross border investors in order to strengthen the bonds of integration and reward the best performances in the business community based on defined criteria.

Among the Conferences expected outcomes are endorsements of policy proposals aimed at improving business environment in the Community by the EAC Heads of State; establishment of long-lasting joint ventures and partnerships with the local business community and international businesses; increased investments in the region especially in services, agri-business, and mining and; harmonised policy proposals amongst the Public-Private Sector to improve the operating environment.

The EAC Investment Conference is an annual event held on rotational basis in the EAC Partner States. The inaugural Investment Conference hosted by Rwanda in 2008 brought together more than 1000 participants, amongst them regional and international investors and world business leaders, under the theme, Leveraging the East African Market through Trade and Investment?. The 2nd conference hosted by Kenya in 2009 had about 2000 participants and was themed ?Invest in the EAC; where Global challenges are Opportunities.?

The 3rd EAC Investment Conference is organised by the East African Community Secretariat in collaboration with the Regional Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs), the East African Business Council, and the Government of the Republic of Uganda.

Additional Information

The East African Community today stands as a region that operates under a fully fledged Customs Union. Further to this achievement is the signed Common Market Protocol in November 2009, deemed to commence in July this year. As the region moves towards a fully integrated economic community where goods, capital, labour and services move freely without borders, it is important to note the abundant potentials that East Africa poses today.

The East African Community is made up of 126.6 million people with a combined gross domestic product of USD 73 billion. With a fully fledged Customs Union in place, and the Common Market commencement slated for July 2010, the region has opened its market to fully enjoy the benefits of cross border trade and investment amongst the five Partner States. The EAC Partner States are in the process of continuously harmonising their business systems, regulations and administrative structures to discipline trade and investment regimes to effectively leverage the region as ?One market, One destination? for business.

The Community, operating within the setting of the global environment also faces the same challenges that have bedeviled the world in the last couple of years. Top amongst these are climate change, food shortages, global financial crisis and security. Akin to Africa is the additional challenge of inadequate infrastructure. The conference will endeavor to address these challenges in an effort to improve the business environment.

For more information on the Conference, please visit the Conference website, .

Source: East African Community (EAC)
Following a Media Conference two weeks ago, which the Secretary General of the East African Community had held in Arusha to announce and promote the 3rd East African Investment Conference, some newspapers in the region wrongly reported that the EAC had suspended the use of the East African Passport. As a result, it has now surfaced that, apparently, some Immigration Officers have been refusing to accept the East African Passport as a valid travel document.

It should be clarified that the EAC Secretary General at no time has he stated that the use of the East African Passport has been suspended. In fact, neither the East African Community Secretariat nor the EAC Secretary General has authority on matters related to issuance of passports. The fact that the passport is called East African Passport in no way invokes the involvement of the East African Community in matters related to passports. It is only the National Immigration Departments of the EAC Partner States that have authority over passport matters. It is the same authorities that have powers also to suspend the issue of the same.

In this context, it can only be deemed as a paradox that an Immigration Officer at any station in the region should even think that the EAC Secretariat or the EAC Secretary General has suspended the use of the East African Passport.

The correct position is that the East African Passport is and remains a valid travel document in the EAC region. At that Press Conference the Secretary Generals remarks on the East African Passport was limited to the information that the Passport was under review by the Immigration Authorities with a view to upgrading its features to meet international machine readable standards and requirements.

Source: East African Community (EAC)
The Deputy Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC) in charge of Political Federation, Hon. Beatrice Kiraso, has said that the regions stability must remain intact as the integration process continues to deepen.

Instability in one country means instability for others. We should not allow this as it will undermine our integration efforts, she stressed when addressing the opening session of the third Inter-State Security Ministerial Council Meeting in Bujumbura, Burundi on Friday 16 April 2010.

Hon. Kiraso urged the Ministers to take keen interest in the EAC integration process as their sector is key to the rest of the processes. She emphasised that Peace and Security issues are an integral part of the two pillars of the integration process that have been successfully negotiated and concluded i.e. the Customs Union and Common Market.

In view of the recently signed Common Market Protocol by the Heads of State, Hon. Kiraso said that the movement of people should not be delayed and urged the United Republic of Tanzania and the Republic of Uganda to expedite the process of acquiring National Identity Cards (IDs) for their citizens.

The meeting noted the need for the Inter-State Security sector to take interest in the negotiations on the third phase of integration Monetary Union and to include mechanism for combating counterfeits, money laundering, cyber-crime, piracy and smuggling of goods which denies the region the much needed revenue.

She saluted Burundi for moving on the right course after years of conflict and destruction. Burundi is on the right path to recovery, she told the delegates amid applause. Burundi is expected to hold its general elections starting May 21. Rwanda and Tanzania will hold elections in August and October respectively.

The Chairperson of the session, Hon. Sophia Simba, Tanzanias Minister of State in the Presidents Office (Good Governance), said the recent signing of the Common Market Protocol by the Heads of Partner States would facilitate movement of goods and capital in EAC Partner States and if timely measures are not put in place, bad elements in the society would take advantage to wreck the regions spirited integration efforts.

Free movement could also attract wrong characters and we must not allow this to happen, Hon. Simba cautioned, adding that the region must face to the reality and find workable solutions.

She assured the EAC of Tanzanias readiness for regional peace and tranquility.

At the conclusion of the Sectoral Council, the EAC carried out 17 April a public destruction of illicit arms; an event to mark the African Union (AU) Year of Peace.

The destruction exercise was presided over by H.E. the Vice-President of Burundi Yves Sahinguvu and was attended by Ministers of Partner States, senior officials, representatives from the European Union, AU and United Nations as well as members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Burundi.

More than 10,000 weapons have been destroyed in the five Partner States through the EAC programme on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), which is a continuous process.

The Ministers reviewed status of implementation of previous decisions; progress on conclusion of the Protocol for Peace and Security, Framework for Conflict Prevention Management and Resolution and the EAC Early Warning Mechanism, among others.

The meeting drew more than 70 delegates from the Ministries in charge of Internal Affairs, Defence, Disaster Management, Immigration, Police, Prisons, Intelligence and counter-terrorism, among others from the EAC Partner States.

Source: East African Community (EAC)
In an effort to work with under-served groups to alleviate poverty, the United States African Development Foundation (USADF) recently awarded two grants with organizations in Burundi. The grants will benefit Association des Femmes pour la Paix et le Developpement de Kinama (ABANIKI) and Association Kerebuka.

After the grant was signed, USADF Chairman Jack Leslie stated USADFs work is grounded in supporting the most marginalized populations in Africa. These grants target some of the most marginalized people in Burundi, helping them enhance their projects, increase their incomes, and support a higher quality of life for them and their communities.

ABANIKI is composed of 82 women, mainly widows and rape victims from a war that lasted almost fifteen years (1993-2008), those abused through domestic violence, the elderly and teen mothers. ABANIKI was among the first organizations in Burundi to bring former neighbors back together after the war. Ignoring the conflicts that existed between the ethnic groups, they supported each other in rebuilding the homes of internally displaced women who were returning to Cibitoke and Kinama. Currently, the women grow rice and vegetables on the outskirts of Bujumbura and also operate a community center housing a tailoring unit that produces school uniforms. With income generated, they provide educational support to teen mothers and further assist their members and those of the community by operating a child care center and providing psychological counseling to help women deal with the trauma they have undergone. The association faces several constraints including the lack of knowledge in good agricultural practices, weak business and financial management skills, and insufficient working capital that prevent it from taking advantage of opportunities to enhance their self-development. The two year grant will be used to rent farmland, support training, purchase equipment, hire a gender-based violence counselor, and send members to an organic training in Rwanda.

Kerebuka Association is a 65-member community organization operating in the Rugari Zone of Muyinga Province, Northern Burundi, a region with severe unemployment and limited assistance from the government. The Association uses pineapple production to assist members and their families create financially autonomous households. Since growing pineapples is a common activity in Muyinga, many farmers sell fruits at a low price especially during months of peak harvest rather than letting them go to waste. Kerebuka sees as an opportunity to create jobs and to increase income for pineapple producers by processing and adding value to the fruits. Farmers have no access to electricity and the pineapple plantations are affected by diseases. The two year grant will fund new plants supplied from Rwanda on a new farm and simple processing equipment that does not require electricity. This will enable the Association to increase pineapple production, and undertake juice production trials as well as work towards meeting food safety standards. This diversification sets the stage for providing jobs and increasing incomes to farmers.

Source: United States African Development Foundation (USADF)
The East African Community today partnered with the One Laptop per Child (OLPC), a nonprofit organisation whose mission is to help provide every child in the world access to a modern education.

According to the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the EAC and OLPC in Kampala, Uganda, the two organisations agreed to work together to leverage the advantages of the laptops in transforming primary school education and to promote strategies for better access to laptops and connectivity especially for the regions underprivileged children.

Speaking at the ceremony to announce the partnership, Amb. Juma Mwapachu, Secretary General of the East Africa Community, said, If you want to build a knowledge economy, you must have a computer literate population, starting from primary, secondary school children and all the way to university.This is a very ambitious project for which we will have to partner with various people and institutions to mobilise and find the resources required to meet our objectives by 2015.

Mr. Matt Keller, the vice president of OLPC who represented Mr. Nicholas Negroponte, founder and chairman of One Laptop per Child said, The OLPCs partnership with the East Africa Community represents another significant step toward a world in which every child has access to a world-class education, to the worlds body of knowledge, and to each other.

The East African Community is dedicating itself not simply to one laptop per child, but to a world in which the children become agents of change making things, teaching each other and their families and affecting the social development of their community, he added.

The Rt. Hon Abdirahim Abdi, Speaker, East African Legislative Assembly described the signing of the MoU as a success for the regional legislature, which has been at the forefront in pushing for the adoption of the Rwanda one-laptop-per-child project as an EAC-wide initiative. He also spoke of the need ?to get the Partner States involved in the [OLPC] process?.

Hon. Dr. Diodorus Kamala, the Chairperson of the EAC Council Ministers and Tanzanias Minister for East African Cooperation said the transformation of the world into a global village means the region must adopt information technology or risk being left out.

He said the MoU would provide the impetus for Partner States to commit resources to the EAC-OLPC venture. ?Signing of this MoU will enable the Partner States to start allocating their funds towards this noble initiative,? Hon. Dr. Kamala said, before giving his assurance that the Council of Ministers would urge Partners States to allocate more funds towards education so that the next generation is technology compliant.

Rt. Hon. Eriya Katega, Ugandas First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for EAC Affairs informed the meeting that Uganda already had an ICT policy and that he would contact the relevant ministries to integrate the initiative within the existing national structures.

About OLPC

One Laptop per Child (OLPC) is a nonprofit organisation created by Nicholas Negroponte and partners from the MIT Media Lab (USA) to design, manufacture and distribute laptop computers that are inexpensive enough to provide every child in the world access to knowledge and modern forms of education.

Source: East African Community (EAC)
The 3rd East African Investment Conference was held at the Commonwealth Speke Resort, Munyonyo from 27th  30th April 2010 under the theme EAC Common Market: The Preferred Investment Destination. The conference was hosted by the Government of the Republic of Uganda in collaboration with the East African Community Secretariat, the Investment Promotion Agencies of the EAC Partner States and the East African Business Council. It was also co-sponsored by several investors in the region, some of whom were awarded Certificates of Recognition during the Conference.

CONFERENCE RECOMMENDATIONS

The conference was structured into plenary and roundtable sessions and was attended by over 1500 participants. Teams of professionals from the public and private sectors made expert presentations on a variety of subjects and contributed to panel discussions.

Following several rounds of discussions, held in a cordial atmosphere and professionally conducted, the following key recommendations came out for consideration and implementation.

On Extractive Industries in East Africa,

The cultural values and interests (including environmental concerns) of project affected persons should be given due recognition during preparation and implementation of projects, by involving them at all stages of investments programming.

Lack of local skilled manpower (especially in oil exploitation) should be addressed through investment in centres of excellence and appropriate training that fits the needs of what is described as the new economy that is knowledge driven.

Import duty exemptions on mining equipment is a major incentive and the region should consider making it a policy in all Partner States.

In the Tourism Sector,

Partner States should commit themselves to enhance the marketing of East Africa as a single tourist destination by developing a regional marketing strategy.

The EAC should speed up the process of having a single entry Visa for tourists. This will ease the travelling of visitors within the region.

Partner States should adopt common criteria for classification and grading of accommodation facilities in EAC in order to harmonize hotel tariffs in EAC.

2

In the Finance Sector,

It is noted that only 4% of Africans have access to formal bank credit and less than 15% own bank accounts. Therefore, there is need to promote wider and deeper access to financial services.

We need to focus on innovative instruments for mobilizing long-term savings as undertaken by Rwandas Provident Fund and by Savings and Credit Societies in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

EA Citizens should be sensitized to take advantage of the diverse opportunities available in the Banking Sector, including specialized banking services like agricultural banks, capital markets and credit rating services, among other financial services.

On Scaling Up Special Economic Zones,

Partner States should promote the provision of dedicated land and infrastructure services away from population centers as an incentive for the private sector to invest in special economic zones.

Public enterprises should be encouraged to zone and build industrial parks but private management and marketing of the parks be contracted out.

Partner States should encourage the provision of land with secure title deeds to empower citizens to benefit from investments in such land as well as propel productive private-sector driven investments especially in bolstering agricultural productivity and thus addressing food security challenges.



On Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a Vehicle for Addressing Infrastructure Challenges in the EAC,

EAC should fast-track the establishment of demand-driven ?federal? Institutions, including the E.A. Finance Commission (for the Monetary Union) and the E.A. Trade & Investment Commission (for the Common Market).

On Infrastructure Development,

EAC should develop a regional policy on inland waterways transport; the Lake Victoria Transport Act and the Inland Waterways Transport Agreement provide a legal and regulatory framework to enable investment in this strategic transport system to take effect.

Better urban planning and traffic management needs to be instituted; for example cities should develop new commercial cities away from existing ones and introduce urban mass transit systems as a way to reduce traffic congestion.

3

On The Role of Research and Development in Socio-economic Integration of East Africa,

Partner States should put in place policies and play a key role to support R&D initiatives and facilitate collaboration between academia and private sector for improvement of R&D in the region. R&D in biotechnology is of particular importance in promoting sustainable food security.

R&D should be utilized to improve quality of goods and services targeting the international market. Research findings should be made easily available to the citizens for utilization, without violating intellectual property rights.

R&D should be used to explore and examine the natural resource potential of the region and social Research should also be made part and parcel of R&D.

On Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) to Trade and Investment in the EAC

EAC should liberalize the EAC regional airspace and make it a domestic one including negotiating a multilateral air service agreement. The aim is to bring down the high costs of travel and doing business in the region.

The region should harmonize and streamline business registration and licensing procedures in EAC and introduce electronic methods for business names.

Partner States should accept Certificates of Origin issued by their counterparts and verification exercises for rules of origin should be concluded within a maximum of two months for now.

On Energy Shortfalls in the EAC Region

Partner States should enhance the involvement of the private sector to scale up investments in both power generation and transmission. Investments in wind power and solar generation are viable and should be given greater impetus.

EAC should accelerate power interconnectivity projects to mitigate both short term and long term energy short falls.

EAC should harmonize the national energy policies, laws and regulations as per the EAC Power Master Plan.

On Strategies and Institutional Requirements for EAC Integration,

The establishment of the EAC Development Fund to enhance project implementation should be fast tracked and Partner States should contribute handsomely to the Fund.

The region should hasten the removal of Non Tariff Barriers that do not require major investments or policy shifts. Unnecessary bureaucracies and red tape are few examples.

EAC planned programmes should also be programmes at national levels. It is proposed that each ministry in the Partner States should have an EAC Desk to enable the EAC Ministries for EAC Affairs undertake their co-ordination roles more effectively.

4

On Up scaling the Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) Sector for Regional Competitiveness,

SMEs should cooperate, coordinate and collaborate among themselves. It is thus important that the EAC Secretariat organizes SMEs in the region and assist them to form a regional body.

Government Guarantees are needed to support SMEs access credit from banks.

A regional association to represent the interests of SMEs need to be established and strengthened.

On Harnessing the Human Resource Endowment in East Africa to Accelerate Economic Growth,

There is need to have an East African integrated policy framework to tackle the problem of unemployment. The Summit should soon host an EAC Summit on Employment with focus on Youth Employment.

We should harness the potential of the less literate by promoting blue collar jobs in our societies.

Partner States should encourage both foreign and domestic investment so that the large local labour force can be made more active.

On The East African Financial Landscape,

EAC should introduce a central financial clearing house for East Africa.

The region should discuss ways of attaining sovereign rating so as to ensure reduction in costs of raising funds from outside the region.

Anti Money Laundering laws should be implemented and enforced in all East African countries.

On Dealing with Regional and Global Challenges,

More effective conflict management and resolution systems should be developed and implemented in the region.

Partner states need to be proactive in addressing climate change issues, for example, by setting up effective early warning systems in the meteorological departments. EAC should speed up completion of the Climate Change Policy and Master Plan which will inform appropriate measures being taken for mitigation of climate change impacts.

There is need for time consistency in the implementation of government policies and programmes which have close bearing on EACs deeper integration.

5

On Opportunities in ICT and Regional Advantages in Outsourcing and Service Economy,

Companies in the ICT sector should invest in capacity building of EAC citizens.

Laws to promote and regulate emerging ICT services at national levels should be enacted and enforced. Regional laws are also needed for regulatory ICT services of a regional dimension.

Policies and regulations that facilitate ICT infrastructure sharing for towers and fibre optics should be developed and implemented in order to avoid costly duplication and making the costs of ICT and communications services such as mobile telephony more competitive.

Cross Cutting Issues

To promote investor confidence, there is need for the region to maintain predictability of policies. In situations where there is need for change in policy, the relevant stakeholders should be consulted.

There should be no discriminatory treatment against investors in the region. All investors should be treated in the same manner and offered similar benefits as national investors.

Public Private Partnership (PPP) policies need to be developed and put in place both at the national and regional levels to enhance private sector involvement in different types of investing.

Source: East African Community (EAC)
UNESCO Offices in Dar es Salaam, Nairobi and Bujumbura, together with the United Nations Communication Group in Tanzania and media stakeholders in the East-African region, have organized the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2010 in Zanzibar, the United Republic of Tanzania.

The two-day workshop, which started yesterday, discusses issues related to the theme of this years Day, Freedom of Information: the Right to Know. Several journalists and editors from mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar and Pemba islands are attending the commemorations. Participating organizations include the Tanzania Chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA), the Eastern Africa Journalists Association (EAJA), the Forum of Mauritian Journalists, the Journalists Unions of Burundi, Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda, the Media Council of Tanzania, and the University of Antananarivo.

Participants are discussing critical issues facing journalists and media in Eastern Africa, such as press freedom, safety and working conditions of journalists, professional ethical standards, investigative journalism and media as a tool for dialogue and reconciliation. They are divided into four working groups, each focusing on a particular topic:

culture of impunity and justice for journalists;

draconian and criminal defamation laws;

censorship vis-a-vis ethical journalism; and

conducive working conditions for journalists.

The President of Zanzibar Amaan Abeid Karume is addressing the participants with the keynote speech during the plenary session on 3 May. This session will summarize the debates held at the workshop and adopt a final document to be called Zanzibar Declaration.

This is the first time the Eastern Africa regional commemorations are being held in Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous island that joined the mainland Tanzania in 1964. The status of the island authorizes it to have its own media legislation.

In recent years Zanzibar has initiated various changes related to the media and communication legislation. This process includes the preparation of a new media policy focusing on public and community broadcasting. UNESCO has been supporting the Government of Zanzibar in this initiative.

Source: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
On May 23, 2004, authorities in Eritrea arrested Kiflu Gebremeskel, a church pastor who had earned his Ph.D. in mathematics in Chicago, along with another Eritrean pastor from his Full Gospel Church of Eritrea denomination, Haile Nayzgi.

Twenty years ago today, both pastors are still in prison without trial. They were likely arrested for leading banned congregations, as evangelical churches in Eritrea were closed by decree in May 2002, rights advocates say.

Pastor Haile Nayzgi and Dr. Kiflu Gebremeskel were arrested for their leadership roles in the Full Gospel Church of Eritrea after the Eritrean government outlawed evangelical Christian churches in 2002, aid and advocacy group Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) reported in a press statement. Since then, Nayzgi and Gebremeskel have been held incommunicado for most of their imprisonment, denied access to their families, lawyers and even medical care. It is not clear what physical and psychological abuse they may have suffered in that time.

Pastor Gebremeskel, a married father of four children, was arrested during an early morning raid on his home in Asmara. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) believes he is held at Wengel Mermera Central Criminal Investigation Interrogation Center.

At the time of Pastor Nayzgis arrest, the Full Gospel Church of Eritrea had 120 to 150 groups meeting for worship in homes, according to VOM.

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Following government closure of all churches other than Orthodox, Lutheran or Catholic, the Full Gospel Church filed an application for government registration, VOM stated. Church leaders never received a reply.

Christians practicing their faith secretly in homes  outside the officially sanctioned Orthodox, Catholic and Evangelical Lutheran denominations, along with Sunni Islam  have been the target of arrest and imprisonment in cruel conditions in Eritrea since 2002.

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, who has headed a communist-influenced government since 1994, has imposed a reign of fear through systematic and extreme abuses of the population that may amount to crimes against humanity, according to a United Nations panel.

Eritreas leader has turned a deaf ear to the cries of his own people and refused to listen also to those around the world calling for more religious freedom and for the release of Pastor Haile, Dr. Kiflu and hundreds of other imprisoned Christians, said VOM Vice President Todd Nettleton.

Pastor Gebremeskel was formerly a department and faculty head at the University of Asmara, a founding member of the Full Gospel Church and senior pastor of the Southwest Full Gospel Church. He also served as leader of the Eritrean Evangelical Association.

The two church leaders are among more than 350 other Christians in prison for their faith, including 80 arrested in the first five months of this year, according to VOM, which provides information to email or fax the Eritrean embassy on behalf of imprisoned Christians. Other estimates of Christians in prison in Eritrea range as high as 1,000.

When VOM asked for prayer for imprisoned Christians last July 22, six days later the aid group leaders learned from in-country partners that 13 Christian prisoners had been set free  six men and seven women who had been in prison for 10 years.

Im saddened that pastors Nayzgi and Gebremeskel were not among those released, Nettleton said in a statement at that time. We continue to pray that they will be freed from their prison cells soon, perhaps even as Peter was set free in Acts 12.

VOM has called on U.S. government and the international community to use every tool at their disposal to urge the Eritrean government and President Isaias Afwerki to end Eritreas terrible persecution of Christians.

Less than two weeks after pastors Gebremeskel and Nayzgi were imprisoned, Massawa Rhema Evangelical Church Pastor Meron Gebreselasie was arrested for his leadership role with and remains in prison, according to USCIRF. Pastor Ahferom Akilas of the Gospel Light Eritrean Baptist Church in Dallas told the Baptist Standard that a pastor he knew for decades had died after two and a half years in prison. The unnamed, 78-year-old pastor was scheduled to be buried on May 15, Pastor Akilas said.

USCIRF this week urged the White House to address religious freedom violations in Eritrea. Commissioner Frank Wolf, former member of the U.S. House of Representatives, said it was unconscionable that the three pastors remain imprisoned under horrible conditions.

According to the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Eritrean government does not generally take steps to investigate, prosecute or punish officials who commit human rights abuses, Wolf said. The safety and well-being of religious prisoners of conscience needs to be a priority for the international community. USCIRF urges the U.S. government to press for their immediate release.

USCIRF stated in its 2023 report that at least 500 Christians in Eritrea faced extremely long prison sentences and harsh prison conditions.

The U.S. Department of State has designated Eritrea a Country of Particular Concern since 2004 for engaging in systemic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom. Open Doors 2024 World Watch List (WWL) ranked Eritrea, the North Korea of Africa, No. 4 among the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian.

Open Doors estimates 1,000 Eritrean Christians are imprisoned for their faith, none of them charged with a crime.

Raids to round up unsanctioned believers are common, with church leaders particularly targeted, the group stated in its WWL report. Those seized in these raids are often sent into Eritreas notorious prison network, where they can be detained indefinitelyenduring shocking conditions, including solitary confinement in tiny cells. Women in prison can face gender-based violence, including rape and sexual violence.
Brazil has commended the East African Community (EAC) integration process and has expressed its desire to work closely with the five-nation regional bloc. Brazils Ambassador to Tanzania, H.E. Francisco Carlos Soares Luz, conveyed this message when he paid a courtesy call to the EAC Secretariat 3 May and also presented his credentials.

Dr Julius Tangus Rotich, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Finance and Administration received the Brazilian envoy on behalf of EAC Secretary General Ambassador Juma Mwapachu.

We are happy with the progress achieved so far in the EAC regional integration efforts, said Ambassador Luz at the brief function which was also attended by the EAC Deputy Secretary General (Productive and Social Sectors), Mr. Jean Claude Nsengiyumva.

?We have a lot to share together for our common prosperity and development, the Brazil ambassador remarked, outlining technology, energy, railways, environment, construction and the agricultural sectors among his countrys possible areas of co-operation with the EAC.

Dr Rotich thanked the ambassador for showing interest in assisting the EAC and assured him of the Secretariats full commitment to closer working ties for mutual development.

Ambassador Luz urged the EAC Partner States to maintain the integration tempo after the coming into force of the Customs Union and especially the Common Market, which is expected to start in July.

All five EAC Partner States have ratified the Common Market Protocol, which was signed by the EAC Heads of State in November last year, during the climax of the EACs 10th anniversary.

About Brazils Economy

Brazil has moderately free markets and an inward-oriented economy. Measured nominally, its gross domestic product surpasses $1.5 trillion dollars, the eighth largest in the world and the second in the Americas in the World Bank ranking; measured by purchasing power parity, $2 trillion, making it the ninth largest economy in the world and the second largest in the Americas, after the United States. The Brazilian economy has been predicted to become one of the five largest economies in the world.

According to the World Economic Forum, Brazil was the top country in upward evolution of competitiveness in 2009, gaining eight positions among other countries, overcoming Russia for the first time, and partially closing the competitiveness gap with India and China among the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) economies.

Important steps taken since the 1990s toward fiscal sustainability, as well as measures taken to liberalize and open the economy, have significantly boosted the countrys competitiveness fundamentals, providing a better environment for private-sector development.

The owner of a sophisticated technological sector, Brazil develops projects that range from submarines to aircraft and is involved in space research.

Source: East African Community (EAC)
The third negotiations session between the East African Community (EAC) Partner States and the European Commission (EC) on the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) ended today at the Mlimani City Conference Centre in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to consider outstanding issues in the Framework Agreement.

The EAC delegation, which was led by Hon. Dr. Mary Nagu, Tanzanias Minister of Industry, Trade and Marketing, comprised of Hon. Amason Jeffah Kingi, Kenyas Minister of EAC and his Deputy, Hon. Peter Munya; Hon Amos Kimunya, Kenyas Minister of Trade; Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, Kenyas Minister of Planning and National Development; and the Attorney General, Hon. Amos Wako. Others included Hon. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Rwandas Minister of Trade and Industry; Hon. Kahinda Otafiire, Ugandas Minister of Tourism, Trade and Industry; and officials from Burundis Ministry of Trade and Industry.

The Commissioner of Trade at the EU, Mr. Karel De Gucht, led the EC delegation; and was accompanied by Amb. Tim Clarke, Head of EC Mission in the EAC based in Dar es Salaam; Mr. Peter Thompson from EC Directorate of Trade; Mrs. Henriette Geiger of Directorate of Development; and other senior EC officials.

The EAC Secretariat was represented by the Director General of the Directorate of Customs and Trade, Mr. Peter Kiguta; the Director for Trade, Dr. Flora Musonda; the Principal International Trade Officer, Mr. Gerald Ajumbo; and other senior officials. Honourable Members of Parliament of Tanzania and the East African Legislative Assembly; representatives of the ACP and COMESA Secretariats; as well as the Civil Society were also in attendance.

Hon. Dr. Mary Michael Nagu, Tanzanias Minister for Industry, Trade and Marketing told participants attending a one-day Joint EAC-EU-EPA Workshop that the East African Community (EAC) Partner States and the European Union (EU) initialled a Framework Economic Partnership Agreement (FEPA) on 27 November, 2007 in Kampala, Uganda and Parties undertook to continue the negotiations of the (FEPA) with a view to concluding a comprehensive EPA.

She said the Framework Agreement comprises of Market Access on Trade in Goods, Development Cooperation issues and Fisheries. In the initialled FEPA, the EAC offered to liberalize 82.6% of her trade with the EU, and retained an exclusion list accounting to 17.4% of the trade with EU. On its part EU has offered Quota Free Duty Free Market Access with exception of ammunition; and transitional arrangement for sugar and rice. However, the main challenge in accessing the EU market has continued to be stringent Rules of Origin.

As the EAC Region inches closer to the finalisation of the FEPA, it was proper to conduct the workshop to provide an opportunity to disseminate and share critical information on EPA with stakeholders.

The Cotonou Agreement from which EPA bears allegiance sets out clearly that the EPA process was supposed to be ?all-inclusive?. The Government, Members of Parliament, Private sector, Academia, CSOs, NGOs, Media and the public at large need to be effectively involved. It is on the basis of this understanding that the workshop had been organised to promote awareness and creating ownership of the EPA process to wider stakeholders forum.

Development co-operation is an integral part of the EPA to ensure that the EAC Partner States are able to adjust to the new challenges and to maximize the benefits from the opportunities offered by the Agreement, noted Hon. Dr. Nagu.

It is in this spirit that both Parties affirmed their recognition of development needs of the EAC region and their commitment to ensure that EPA is an addition to development that will promote and consolidate regional integration and fast track the integration of the EAC into the global economy. If this commitment is fulfilled, it will enable EAC countries to address the development needs associated with the EPA and promote the sustainable growth and eventually reduce poverty, observed the Minister. It is imperative that these dimensions were reflected in both the Framework Economic Partnership Agreement commonly known as FEPA and the Full EPA.

The Hon. Minister noted that the outstanding issues were Economic and Development Cooperation, Export Taxes, and Most Favoured Nation Treatment (MFN) clauses. Economic development issues were pertinent in addressing supply side constraints which had hampered EAC economies from benefiting from the market opportunities provided by predecessor arrangements the Lome Conventions and EBA. Export taxes and Most Favoured Nation Treatment (MFN) clauses limit policy space to EAC Partner States to take remedial measures for their economic benefits, asserted the Minister.

At the end of the Ministerial session, a joint EAC-EC Communique was issued on the Framework for an Economic Partnership Agreement (FEPA) and negotiations for the comprehensive EPA [see attachment].

Source: East African Community (EAC)
The East African Community Nyerere Centre for Peace Research (EAC-NCPR) in cooperation with Arcadia University in the USA has offered new scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students from the EAC Partner States for training programs in Human Rights Law in Africa. The training programs which began this week will run for five weeks.

Welcoming the students, the Deputy Secretary General in charge of Political Federation, Hon. Beatrice Kiraso, said the programs are aimed at giving them the opportunity to examine contemporary international human rights law in Africa and explore human rights issues and international norms arising from international law within the context of development and globalisation.

The Deputy Secretary General emphasised that learning about the international criminal justice offers the students the opportunity to discuss the instruments and the enforcement mechanisms both at the international, regional and the sub-regional as well as national levels. Central to this exploration is the question of what constitutes human rights including: the right to civil and political, social, economic and cultural as well as the right to development. Additionally, the courses will also explore the relationship between these rights with a special focus on vulnerable groups such as women, children and also indigenous population.

In order to explore a variety of approaches to addressing human rights, students will meet with representatives from different organizations including the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights, the East African Law Society, Heifer International among others, Hon. Kiraso said.

The training programs will also give the students a chance to learn more about the EAC integration process and the opportunity to share experiences with their counterparts from Arcadia University, she added.

The programs will be conducted in Arusha and will include case studies focusing on the EAC region. The goal of these trainings is to provide a rigorous academic program with a focus on human rights in contemporary Africa. The EAC plans to increase the number of scholarships in future.

Depending on the availability of funds, were determined to open up more places for students from the EAC at NCPR, Hon. Kiraso remarked.

Background: EAC Nyerere Centre for Peace Research

The Nyerere Centre for Peace Research (NCPR) was launched in 2008 as an institution of the EAC. The Centres vision is to be a Centre of excellence that conducts cutting edge research on peace and security, good governance and common foreign policy pursuits that enhances regional integration and development while its mission is to undertake policy research and capacity building that contributes to the creation of peaceful environment that enhances human security, regional integration and development.

Its operational objectives include among others; undertaking both empirical and policy oriented research that will promote peace and security as a means of enhancing regional integration and development; networking and collaborating with like-minded local, regional and international organisations to tap good practices and approaches to research and training; and enhancing students interest in the EAC regional integration process.

Its strategic importance to the Community derives from the fact that regional entities are credible, cost effective and more efficient than individual institutions. As such, NCPR seeks to complement the vision, mission and objectives of the EAC.

Source: East African Community (EAC)
Kenya has relinquished its position as the most corrupt country in East Africa to Burundi, according to the East African Bribery Index 2010 by Transparency international-Kenya. The index which has expanded to Rwanda and Burundi this year, ranks the latter at the top position with a corruption prevalence of 36.7% while Rwanda is the least corrupt country in the region with a prevalence of 6.6 %. Kenya, at third position, has registered a slight improvement in the prevalence of corruption, from a corruption prevalence rate of 45% in 2009, to 31.9% this year. Uganda comes second at 33% while Tanzania is fourth with a corruption prevalence of 28.6%.

The East African Bribery Index is a governance tool developed to measure bribery levels in the private and public sectors in the region. The survey was conducted among 10,505 respondents selected through random household sampling across all the administrative provinces in the five countries between January and March 2010.

Most corrupt institutions

The EABI 2010 clearly shows that apart from Rwanda where incidents of bribery were found to be negligible, corruption is still an impediment to responsive public service delivery in the region. Key governance and enforcement institutions such as the police, judiciary, and defence featured prominently in the index, as did institutions offering key services like health, education, housing and finance.

The Revenue Authority in Burundi is the most corrupt institution in the region, dislodging The Kenya Police which topped the ranks in 2009. The police force in Burundi comes second, followed by the Kenya Police, Uganda Revenue Authority and Tanzania Police in that order. Completing the list of the top ten most corrupt institutions are the Uganda Police, Ministry of State for Defence (Kenya), the Nairobi City Council and the Judiciary in Kenya and Tanzania.

The Aggregate Index for Rwanda could not be formulated following the limited number of reported bribery incidents in that country (78 bribery experiences out of 4,350 interactions with service delivery institutions). Indeed, none of the institutions in Rwanda are ranked in the regional Aggregate Index. TI-Kenya hopes that a deeper comparative study will be conducted in Rwanda to establish practices that have led to a negligible level of corruption there.

Exits and entrants

Three institutions listed in 2009 exited the 2010 Kenya Aggregate Index; these are the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the Ministry of Public Works. Entrants to the index are the Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Ports Authority, Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The Aggregate Index for Tanzania had notable changes due to the first-time listing of some institutions. Eight of the listed institutions were new entries with the Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) being the only notable exit. Institutions listed for the first time included the Tanzania Ports Authority, Registrar of Births and Deaths, Tanzania Prisons Service and the Department of Defence.

In the case of Uganda, there were minimal changes in the overall ranking compared to the 2009 Aggregate Index. However, some institutions including public and private schools, public hospitals and state corporations made their first appearance in the index. The Northern Uganda Social Action Fund, The Aids Support Organisation (TASO) and the Immigration Department left the index.

Corruption perception

The corruption perception in Kenya has not changed much for three consecutive years, according to the index. Close to 90% of the respondents rated the country as being between corrupt and extremely corrupt, while only 8.5% regarded Kenya as slightly corrupt. This is in sharp comparison to Rwanda, where about 84% of the respondents perceived the country as slightly corrupt while only 12% said the country was either corrupt or extremely corrupt. Both Tanzania and Burundi had 85% of the respondents rating their countries as corrupt or extremely corrupt while only eight percent of those sampled in Burundi perceived their country as slightly corrupt.

Reporting of Corruption Cases

The index highlights that the reportage of corruption cases is still very low in the region. Ninety-three percent of the respondents from Uganda who experienced a bribery situation did not report the matter to any authority, while 92.9% of those who were in a bribery situation in Tanzania did not file a complaint. Majority of the respondents in Burundi (92%) did not report the bribery incident. In Kenya, 89% of the respondents did not report corruption cases, while the majority of those who filed complaints (40.8%) sought redress from the management of the respective institutions with 11% and 4.9% reporting to the police and the Office of the Ombudsman (Public Complaints Standing Committee) respectively.

Reforms necessary to achieve the objectives of the common market

The commencement of the East African Common Market Protocol on July 1st, 2010 is expected to boost trade across the five East African countries by promoting free movement of goods, services and capital. However, corruption threatens to hold back the attainment of the objectives set out by the member states.

East African countries need to scrutinise their service delivery mechanisms with the objective of rooting out practices such as corruption that are impeding the accessibility of basic services, said the Transparency International-Kenya Executive Director, Samuel Kimeu. This will promote equality, development and the reduction of poverty in the region, he added during the launch attended by the heads of the other four TI national chapters in East Africa.

In the Kenyan case, a Proposed Constitution containing stronger accountability safeguards will be put to vote on August 4th, 2010. If passed, it will serve as the gateway for much needed institutional reforms aimed at curbing corruption incidents in the public sector.

Source: Transparency International (Press)
A Jefferson County grand jury has indicted two men in the January slaying of a woman kidnapped from Birminghams Shell station on Third Avenue West and later found naked and murdered on a dead-end street.

The grand jury issued capital murder indictments against Jayden Gildersleeve, 21, and Michael Spellman, 62. The indictments were issued May 17 and made public Friday.

The case was forwarded the grand jury following a March court hearing during which heartbreaking details were disclosed for the first time since Genise Carters body was found Jan. 25 in the 1300 block of 17th Street North.

Carter, 43, had been beaten and shot in the head.

Birmingham homicide Det. John Finke was the lone witness in the March hearing and detailed the horrific events that led to Carters death.

A motive in Carters killing was not revealed. Carter was at least acquainted with one of the suspects.

Finke said a Birmingham Streets and Sanitation worker found Carter face down and nude, except for a pair of socks that Thursday morning.

Four days later, police received a tip that Carter may have been kidnapped from the Shell service station at 800 Third Ave. West. The tipster said detectives needed to look at the stores surveillance video.

I noticed that the female that was beaten and kidnapped from the store was in fact Genise Carter, Finke said of the video.

Finke said that at 4:17 a.m. that Thursday, Carter arrived at the Shell station. Three minutes later, Gildersleeve and Spellman entered the parking lot in a Chevrolet Malibu and went inside the store.

Gildersleeve immediately went to where Carter was, and Spellman made some sort of hand gesture to the store clerk.

At 4:22 a.m., Gildersleeve forced Carter at gunpoint out of the store. Spellman left with them.

Police are investigating the discovery of a body found on a dead-end street in northern Birmingham.(Carol Robinson)

Carter was then forced into the car at gunpoint. Both men got into the car and drove away.

At 4:32 a.m., Finke said, the suspects returned to the stores parking lot. Gildersleeve went into the store and then began talking to people near a gas pump.

He said there were multiple cars in the parking lot.

At 4:36 a.m., Carter got out of the suspects vehicle and jumped into a white SUV, seeking help from a man she did not know.

Spellman then got out of the car and stood between the Malibu and the SUV.

Gildersleeve then took Carter out of the SUV. Carter tried to resist.

Shes bear-hugging the driver, Finke said. She does not want to go with Gildersleeve.

Gildersleeve had a gun to her head, forces her back into the (Malibu), Finke said.

Carter then escaped the car again and ran into the store. Gildersleeve chased her inside, Finke said. Spellman also was in the store.

The victim was beaten on the ground in the doorway of the store, and Gildersleeve picks the victim up from the ground at gunpoint and forces her back into the car, he said.

The ordeal at the store lasted about 30 minutes.

Spellman, Finke said, unlocked the back door of the car so Gildersleeve could throw her in.

Finke said he recovered a second video from a house across from where Carters body was found.

That video showed a dark-colored sedan driving down the dead-end street seven minutes after Gildersleeve drove off from the gas station.

A few minutes later, Finke said, that vehicle left the dead-end street. No other vehicles were seen driving down that street until the worker found Carters body.

Finke said one witness did call 911 to report the kidnapping. Authorities said police responded to the gas station but did not find anything at that time.

That 911 caller provided a tag number, and a similar tag number later hit on a Flock camera near Fairfield.

Once police identified the owner of that vehicle, they realized he looked just like the person in the (store) video, Finke said. The vehicle, he said, was registered to Gildersleeve.

Investigators then set up surveillance at an apartment building on Third Avenue Southwest, the address Gildersleeve used for his car registration.

The departments Crime Reduction Team staked out the apartment and saw Gildersleeve leave and go into another apartment below his unit.

On Jan. 31, when Gildersleeve left and headed toward his vehicle, police swarmed the scene and took him into custody.

Police obtained search warrants for both apartments. The woman that lived in the second apartment told them that Gildersleeve brought two guns, asking her to hide them.

One of them was a .380. Finke said ballistics testing showed the bullet recovered from Carters head matched perfectly with that weapon.

Spellman was taken into custody on Feb. 1 while he was riding a bicycle near 9th Avenue West and 1st Street West.

Finke said Spellman waived his Miranda Rights and admitted he was the person in the store video, but denied knowing anything about Carters slaying. Finke said Gildersleeve also denied being responsible for her death.

Several witnesses saw what was happening, including the store clerk, but said they didnt want to get involved and did not alert police.

Chief Deputy District Joe Roberts is prosecuting the case. Gildersleeve is represented by attorney Scott Boudreaux, and Spellman is represented by Sammie Shaw and Brittany Mercer of the Jefferson County Public Defenders Office.

Both remain held without bond in the Jefferson County Jail. A trial date has not been set.
Authorities have released the name of a man killed in a crash with an 18-wheeler in Birmingham.

The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the fatality victim as Renardo Laron Fletcher. He was 45 and lived in Birmingham.

The collision happened at 3:40 p.m. Thursday on Tallapoosa Street at the access ramp to Interstate 59/20.

The collision involved an SUV and an 18-wheeler, which jackknifed.

Fletcher was pronounced dead on the scene at 3:56 p.m.

The truck driver was treated on the scene for minor injuries.

Birmingham police are investigating.
A Florida priest has admitted he bit a woman who grabbed at Holy Communion wafers during a Mass he was conducting last Sunday, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

St. Cloud, Fla., police were called to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church after being contacted by the woman. They spoke with Father Fidel Rodriguez, who admitted he bit the woman, saying she looked unaware of the requirements to receive Communion during the 10 a.m. service.

The woman was apparent undaunted by being bitten by a priest, because she returned for the noon service.

The Diocese of Orlando defended the priests actions, claiming he was trying to prevent an act of desecration.

The Sentinel reported that video footage taken by a bystander shows the priest and the woman exchanging words before he begins to place a Communion wafer in her mouth, but she aggressively reaches into the bowl containing the wafers. The two struggled before Rodriguez bit her and were then separated by others.

In a statement, the Diocese claimed the video shows the woman initiated the physical contact and acted inappropriately.

The priest was trying to protect the Holy Communion from this sacrilegious act, the statement said.

The Diocese also claimed the woman referred to the wafers as a cookie and crushed them when she grabbed them in the bowl.

A police report obtained by the Sentinel indicates the woman believed she was being discriminated against by Rodriguez due to her sexuality and attire, a claim Rodriguez refuted, saying she was refused Communion because she appeared unfamiliar with the procedure.

As of Friday, Rodriguez had not been charged, but a report accusing him of misdemeanor battery had been sent to the Orlando-area State Attorneys Office for review.
Gov. Kay Ivey released a video Friday in recognition of Memorial Day, calling on Alabama residents to remember that the purpose of the holiday is to salute the men and women who died fighting for the country.

We remember those from Mobile to Huntsville  and those from sea to shining sea  whose courageous spirits rose in defense of liberty and justice, Ivey said. Yall, lets educate our children about the valor and sacrifice that has shaped our great country. Lets ensure that every veteran and every family member know that their loss is recognized and their bravery revered.

Monday will be the eighth Memorial Day that Ivey has spent as governor. She asked Alabamians to live up to the ideals that many have given their lives for.

My fellow Alabamians, let us always remember freedom is not free, Ivey said.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency just rejected Alabamas plan to let utilities leave millions of tons of coal ash in unlined ponds alongside rivers.

The EPA, in a formal rejection released today, said Alabamas plan was significantly less protective of people and waterways than federal law requires.

Alabama had been locked in a billion-dollar battle with EPA over coal ash since last August, when the EPA issued its proposed rejection of Alabamas plan.

EPA is laser focused on protecting people from exposure to pollution, like coal ash, that can cause cancer risks and other serious health issues, said EPA Administrator Michael Regan, in a news release.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan in Lowndes County, Ala.Dennis Pillion

The EPA said that permits that Alabama approved did not meet federal standards.

The key point of contention: Under Alabamas permits, coal ash would have remained in unlined ponds in contact with groundwater. The EPA said that cant happen.

Under federal regulations, coal ash units cannot be closed in a way that allows coal ash to continue to spread contamination in groundwater after closure, the EPA said today. In contrast, Alabamas permit program does not require that groundwater contamination be adequately addressed during the closure of these coal ash units.

Coal ash, or coal combustion residuals (CCR), is whats left after coal is burned. It can contain numerous substances that are hazardous to people and animals, including arsenic, mercury and heavy metals.

The EPA first enacted coal ash rules in 2015, after prominent disasters like the TVA Kingston dam breach in Tennessee and continuing evidence that coal ash was contaminating surface and groundwater.

But utilities and state regulators have argued that digging out the coal ash and moving it to lined landfills would be far more expensive for Alabama utility customers -- likely by billions of dollars -- and that the ponds could be adequately closed with the cover-in-place method.

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management -- which operates Alabamas coal ash program and issued the permits that EPA now says are insufficient -- issued a statement today saying it was disappointed in the EPAs decision and that ADEM anticipates appealing the EPA denial action in federal court.

EPA itself has stated that the ADEM CCR rule is at least as protective as the EPA rule, the only legal criterion for CCR program approval, ADEM said.

However, EPA now claims that CCR program approval is conditioned on the permits issued by ADEM complying with the novel and questionable reinterpretations of numerous longstanding federal requirements that EPA would employ if EPA were to issue CCR permits. EPA has no program to issue CCR permits.

ADEM also said that EPA waited more than two years to rule on Alabamas CCR program after it was submitted, far exceeding the agencys 180-day deadline.

Alabama Power -- which maintains several coal ash ponds throughout Alabama -- said through a spokesperson that the company was also still reviewing the EPAs decision, but that we remain committed to complying with all environmental rules and regulations.

The James M. Barry Electric Generating Plant in Bucks, Ala., about 25 miles north of Mobile, on the banks of the Mobile River. (Flight provided by Southwings)

Environmental groups hailed the EPAs decision as a win for Alabamas waterways.

Today marks a significant victory for every Alabamian who values clean water, Mobile Baykeeper Cade Kistler said in a news release. The EPAs final denial underscores what our communities have said all along  that leaving toxic coal ash in unlined leaking pits by our rivers is unacceptable.

The people of Alabama are emphatic. They do not want this toxic waste threatening their communities and waterways, Barry Brock, director of the Southern Environmental Law Centers Alabama office, said in a news release. EPA hears Alabama citizens and is standing up to monopoly utilities like Alabama Power.

The EPA accepted public comments and held a public hearing on its proposed denial last year that drew a wide range of attendees.

Environmental groups urged EPA to follow through with its proposed rejection, while state utilities and regulators had argued that doing so would be costly and unnecessary for Alabamians.

For decades coal power plants handled ash by using water to flush this material into massive lagoons, typically located alongside major rivers. Some of these lagoons are now hundreds of acres in size, containing millions of tons of wet coal ash slurry.

According to EPA documents, Alabama has more than 100 million tons of coal ash stored in unlined ponds that cover more than 2,000 acres across the state.

Closure by removal would take decades to complete, which exceeds the regulatory closure timeframes, and there is not enough available landfill capacity to accept the approximately 100 million cubic yards of ash in our ponds, Susan Comensky, Alabama Power Vice President for Environmental Affairs said during the hearing.

Lance LeFleur (seated, left) director of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, signs papers awarding a $10 million sewer grant to the town of Hayneville, Ala. on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023. Dennis Pillion

Whats next?

Alabama utilities may now be forced to dig out its coal ash ponds and move the coal ash to lined landfills, if the EPA maintains its position that coal ash cannot remain in contact with groundwater.

Frank Holleman, an attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center who runs the groups coal ash work, told AL.com last year that as far as they knew, all of Alabamas ash ponds were in contact with groundwater.

Were not aware of one that isnt, Holleman said.

Its unclear how much that would cost, as utilities have not provided cost estimates for removal as opposed to cover in place.

There may be options other than digging the ash out and storing it in a lined landfill.

Since the EPAs proposed rejection of Alabamas coal ash plan was announced, Alabama Power announced a plan to recycle most of the coal ash stored at Plant Barry in Mobile County, though its uncertain how much of the decades-old ash can be recycled.

Alabama Power Company completed cover-in-place closure operations of its coal ash pond at Plant Gadsden in 2018.Courtesy Alabama Power Company

Alabama utilities may even be forced to excavate coal ash ponds that have already been closed. The ash ponds at Alabama Powers Plant Gadsden and TVAs Plant Colbert were closed using the cover in place method.

Now the EPA says 35% of the ash at Colbert may be in contact with groundwater, at a depth of up to 13 feet, while Gadsdens ash may be soaking in four feet of groundwater.

The likely next step -- aside from a potential court battle over EPAs decision -- would be for Alabama to draft new state coal ash rules and permits that meet the EPAs standards.

Our job is to work closely with states to make sure that every community is protected from contamination, and thats especially true for those that have been overburdened by pollution for too long, said EPA Administrator Regan in the statement today.

EPA stands ready to continue working with Alabama so that they can submit an approvable application and implement a program that is as protective of public health as the federal standards.

*This story was updated at 5:41 p.m. with comments from ADEM.
The ongoing mass killings of thousands of unborn baby girls and boys through abortion in the U.K. galvanized determined pro-life campaigners to come together outside the Houses of Parliament and protest as lawmakers prepare to decriminalize abortion, according to several pro-life groups.

Latest UK Government figures released on Thursday (May 23) reveal 251,377 legal abortions for women aged 15 to 44 living in England and Wales in 2022. This is the highest number since the Abortion Act [1967] was introduced and an increase of 17% over the previous year. 99 percent of abortions were funded by the National Health Service and 80 per cent in the independent sector.

Meanwhile MPs are tabling two amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill proceeding through parliament. The moves would stop legal repercussions for killing an unborn child, if that child is unwanted. At the same time, sex-selective abortions would be allowed.

The Criminal Justice Bill 2023-2024, introduced on Nov. 14 with a second reading on Nov. 28. was considered by a Public Bill Committee over 16 sittings between Dec. 12 and Jan. 30. Amendments to the bill were debated on May 15 with pro life groups protesting outside parliament, and a further House of Commons debate is planned for June 3.

Labour party MPs Diana Johnson and Stella Creasy both tabled the new clauses for decriminalizing abortion in England and Wales.

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At the second reading debate, Johnson, who is the chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee, noted that women can still be prosecuted for ending a pregnancy after the legal time limit.

I will be tabling a new clause to remove women from the criminal law relating to abortion, Johnson said at the debate. Let me be very clear with everybody: this is a very limited and highly targeted amendment. It would not change any law regarding the provision of abortion services within a healthcare setting in England and Wales.

The abortion time limit, the legal grounds for abortion and the requirement for two doctors approval would all stay as they are. What the amendment would do is usher in an end to women being put in jail for having an abortion, and I hope that we can all come together and agree on that course of action.

Creasy said her similar amendment would look to remove the criminal underpinning of our legislation replacing it with a medical one that puts the health of women first and ensures appropriate professional delivery of services as well as clinical safeguards.

Meanwhile, pro-life groups gathered to protest as parliamentarians debated the amendments on May 15.

They included Abortion Resistance, Alliance Defending Freedom UK (ADF UK), Centre for Bio Ethical Reform UK (CBR UK), Christian Concern, CitizenGO, Good Counsel Network, March for Life, Rachels Vineyard, Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC), Voice for Justice UK, 40 Days for Life and several others.

Dr Dermot Kearney, a consultant cardiologist and leading Catholic pro-life medical physician, said abortion was not in the best interests of patients.

We know that abortions are not healthcare even though the abortion providers often try to promote it as such, he said in a video interview with Christian Concern, and we are here to show that abortion is not healthcare, it is the intentional destruction of innocent human life and that can never constitute appropriate, authentic healthcare.

Rachel Mackenzie, from Christian pro life healing ministry Rachels Vineyard, said there had been an increased number of women badly affected by at home abortions.

She has supported countless women already traumatized by abortion up to 24 weeks. It is horrific to think we could actually not only double the amount of abortions but also double the impact of trauma, Mackenzie said at the protest.

This is often something suffered in silence and isolation, Mackenzie added. My concerns are that decriminalizing abortion up to birth will not only mean more women risking their own physical health but it is downplaying the gravity and irrevocable nature of the decision, which can have extreme impact on womens mental health too.

Andrea Williams, a barrister and managing director of Christian Concern, called the push from the abortion industry particularly perverse.

We know that premature babies can often live outside their mothers wombs from the existing abortion time limit of 24 weeks, and even earlier, she said.

Williams said there was no difference between babies aborted with poison pills at 24 weeks and those being cared for in a nearby hospital neonatal unit.

It was this threat of such an inhumane threat to human life that pulled so many people (about 300) together at such short notice, she commented about the protest event. The unity between all the pro-life groups was a joy to witness. The supporters from various groups who had dropped plans and made the effort to come along was inspiring.
A man charged with murder in the 2012 disappearance of his then-14-year-old daughter has arrived in Mobile after being extradited from Oklahoma City, where he was jailed on unrelated charges.

Demetric L. Hooper, 47, was last seen with his daughter, Brittany Robinson, before she was reported missing by her mother on June 22, 2012.

He was indicted by a grand jury in February, although Robinsons body has never been found and police have not disclosed what evidence convinced them to charge Robinson nearly 12 years after his daughters disappearance.

Before the indictment handed down against him, Hooper had been charged with interfering with child custody four months after his daughters disappearance. Prosecutors said he failed to return his daughter after his visitation was over.

Robinson was 14 when her mother, Tiana Hogue, told authorities her daughter hadnt been seen since visiting her father on June 14, 2012.

Authorities kept a close eye on Hooper after the disappearance, eventually tracking him to a mental health facility in Arkansas, but did not locate the teen.

He initially pleaded not guilty to interfering with child custody. He changed his plea to guilty in August 2014 and a Mobile County Circuit Court Judge sentenced him to 10 years in prison.

He only served a little more than two years of that sentence, however, and was released in December 2016, according to the Alabama Department of Corrections.

According to law enforcement, Hogue allowed her daughter to visit her father in June 2012. When Hooper did not return the girl, the mother called police. Hoopers home was empty, according to officials.

Investigators managed to track down Hooper in Arkansas, where he had checked himself into a mental health facility. Authorities have said the defendant resisted arrest and required four law enforcement officers to physically restrain him before they could put him in the squad car. There was no sign of Robinson.

Hooper was booked into Mobile Metro Jail shortly after midnight Thursday. He remained held without bond as of Friday afternoon.
Federal authorities have charged a Lawrence County man with multiple child sexual exploitation charges.

David Edward Collier, 46, was arraigned last week on a 13-count indictment in U.S. District Court in Huntsville.

U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples announced Collier has been charged with four counts of sexual exploitation of children, eight counts of transportation of child pornography, and one count of child pornography possession.

In federal law, transportation can refer to sending pornography through the mail or within emails, text messages and website links.

Investigators say between January 2017 and August 2022, Collier induced minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing any visual depiction of that conduct.

Then between October 2022 and September 2023, he transported the child pornography.

FBI North Alabama Violent Crime Task Force and Cybercrime Squad investigated the case along with the Lawrence, Limestone and Madison County Sheriffs Offices, and Moulton and Huntsville police.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a Justice Department initiative aimed at child sexual exploitation and abuse.
The new headquarters for the Coca-Cola Bottling United Co. will cost more than $330 million to build over the next three years and is expected to become a landmark entranceway to the City of Birmingham.

Its one of the largest investments by a private company in Birmingham history.

And it all started with a mule named Bird.

The way that some of the bottling territories were actually established, back in the day, was wherever your plant was, how far your mule could travel back and forth, said Coca-Cola United CEO Mike Suco.

Thats your supply chain. Thats all you can do. You draw a circle from there. Thats the old school way of logistically how you could distribute.

Coca-Cola United was founded in 1902 at 109 North 24th Street in Birmingham after Crawford T. Johnson Sr. moved from Chattanooga to start the Birmingham Coca Cola Bottling Co. with franchise rights hed bought from bottlers in Tennessee.

It was Johnson, one employee who drove the delivery wagon, and Bird the mule.

Its a wonderful story, Suco said. He borrowed $12,000. He started with that mule and one associate.

Bird the Mule would tote cases of Coca-Cola around the city to vendors where it would be sold by the bottle. That obviously changed with motor vehicles, Suco said.

Because competitors were imitating Coca-Cola, the company and its bottlers designed a uniquely shaped bottle to distinguish it from others.

In 1915, Birmingham was the site of a secret test to produce what would become, and remains to this day, the distinctive contour Coca-Cola bottle.

In the 1920s, Johnsons sons, Crawford Jr. and Allen, joined the business, while Crawford Sr. focused on acquiring Coca-Cola franchises in other Southern markets.

With his sons off serving in World War II, Crawford resumed running the company, but when he died in 1942, his widow, Caroline, took over. She led it until the sons returned from the war.

Crawford Johnson III, the next generation of family leadership, led the integration of four scattered territories into a single company  Coca-Cola Bottling Company United in 1974.

In 1979, the company moved from its bottling plant on U.S. 11 in Midfield to its current facility at 4600 East Lake Boulevard.

In a 1987 speech, Crawford Johnson III said that competition in the early days ranged from consumer apathy and opposing groups like the clergy, who thought Coca-Cola contained drugs, and saloon keepers, who feared Coke would ruin the liquor business.

In the modern era, he said, the soft drink competition has been fierce.

This competition has brought better products and packaging at lower prices to the consumer and has been the catalyst for the growth of the industry, Johnson III said in that speech.

You didnt know in 1902 that this Coke thing was going to work out, Suco said. It wasnt a global brand. It was something that just kind of started.

A dog drinking Coca-Cola from a bottle outside Crawford Johnson's drug store in 1947.Birmingham Public Library

Johnsons descendants remain involved in the business.

Mr. Johnson would be real proud that hes got fifth generation family members running the business and involved in it today, a multi-billion-dollar company, 10,000 associates, six states, Suco said. We still kept it here in Birmingham.

The regional bottling company is a separate entity from the global Coca Cola headquarters in Atlanta, where the brand began. Coca-Cola was invented by John Stith Pemberton in Atlanta and in 1888 he sold the ownership rights to Asa Griggs Candler, who led a drive to popularize the drink.

The name refers to two original ingredients: coca leaves and kola nuts.

The Coca-Cola Company produces concentrate that is then sold to bottlers, who own exclusive territory rights.

We have a really close relationship with them, but were two separate entities, Suco said.

Youve got the global company. They own the brand. They are truly the brand owners and they are responsible for the marketing of those brands. Our responsibility is to take those products, bottle or can them, distribute, sell, merchandise, and then together we help build those brands at the local level.

The first Coca-Cola bottler was established in 1899 in Chattanooga, which is owned by the Birmingham-based Coca Cola United.

We own that franchise today, Suco said. Its the oldest and the original. Prior to that, it was only sold in fountains. So, back in the day, youd squirt some syrup in a glass, hit it with some bubbly water, stir it up and those were the old fountain machines. Thats how it was served. There were two lawyers in Chattanooga who came up with the idea of bottling it. Thats the way the whole thing began in 1899.

Coca-Cola United announced details of its planned new campus this week, unveiling drawings of how it will become a major landmark on the south side of Interstate 20/59 at the Tallapoosa Street exit.

The new campus on the former Stockham Valves property will cost in excess of $330 million and take three years to complete, Suco said.

The new campus will be built on the former Stockham Valves property in the Kingston neighborhood. Its expected to create up to 50 new jobs and retain more than 750 employees who already work for the company in Birmingham.

Coca-Cola purchased the Stockham Valves and Fittings property in 2013 on 40th Street North, about two miles from its current location off East Lake Boulevard, in the hopes of one day building a new facility.

Bulldozers in March cleared 105 acres south of the Tallapoosa Street exit, moving dirt and knocking down trees on a highly visible site east of W.C. Patton Park along Interstate 20/59.

The company began announcing details of its planned new headquarters this month.

Coca Cola United plans to spend more than $330 million building a new campus alongside Interstate 20/59 east of downtown Birmingham.Coca Cola United

The new bottling facility will produce Coca-Cola products for Jefferson County and 11 other surrounding counties.

The new facility will include a 150,000-square-foot multi-floor office complex and a 300,000- square-foot warehouse featuring the Vertique case picking system that is among the most advanced in the beverage industry.

Coca-Cola United has invested in Vertique technology at six of its locations, including Mobile in 2021.

The new facility, which along with its famous trademark will be highly visible to traffic along Interstate 20/59, will house the Birmingham Coca-Cola sales center as well as Coca-Cola Uniteds Corporate, Central Region and North Alabama Division headquarters  which supports the companys operations in Carbon Hill, Cullman, Florence, Oxford and Tuscaloosa.

The companys Classic Food and Vending arm, customer solutions center and services department will also be based in the new facility.

Suco said construction will be completed in time for a celebration of the companys 125th anniversary in 2027. Click here for a look at the plans for the new facility.
A Montgomery Police Department chaplain has died after his vehicle was hit by a man fleeing Greenville police.

Alabama State Troopers on Friday identified the fatality victim as Antonio L. Seales. He was 51.

The wreck happened May 10 on Norman Bridge Road near East Delano Avenue in Montgomery, said Trooper Sgt. Jeremy Burkett.

Seales was critically injured when his Chrysler 300 was struck from the rear by a Chevrolet Traverse driven by Ashton T. Ford, 26, also of Montgomery.

Burkett said before the crash occurred, Ford was eluding law enforcement and was involved in a pursuit.

Seales was taken to Baptist Medical Center South where he was pronounced dead at 5:31 p.m. on May 21.

Ford was also injured and taken to the same hospital.

Greenville Police Chief Justin Lovvorn told the Greenville Advocate that officers that day had responded to a call from a Greenville business in reference to a felony theft in progress.

Police tried to pull over the vehicle as it was leaving the area but the driver, later identified as Ford, refused to stop.

The pursuit traveled northbound along Interstate 65, ending with the crash on Norman Bridge Road.

Court records show Ford was charged with attempting to elude, third-degree theft of property and reckless endangerment. He is out of jail on bond.

Seales began working with Montgomery Police Department in 2013 as part of the citys Operation Good Shepherd program, a partnership between the Montgomery Police Department and area worship centers to support the families and loved ones affected by acts of violence.

He became the departments chaplain in 2021.

Pastor Sealess service to the Montgomery Police Department and the community at large was invaluable, said Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed.

As an original member of the citys Operation Good Shepherd program, his commitment to the well-being of the police force was evident long before his formal appointment as chaplain, consistently providing a calming presence for our officers, Reed said. On behalf of Tamika and my family, we offer our most sincere condolences.

Pastor Sealess sudden departure has left us all at a loss for words, and we understand that this is a difficult time for everyone, said Acting Montgomery Police Chief John Hall. We want to offer our deepest sympathies and support to Pastor Seales family and friends as they navigate through this profound loss.

Although Pastor Seales is no longer physically with us, his legacy and spirit will forever remain a part of our department, Hall said. Let us take comfort in the sweet memories we shared with him and draw strength from his unwavering dedication to serving others.

Mayor Reed ordered all flags in Montgomery to be flown at half-staff in honor of Sealess service to the city.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation may launch a criminal probe into possible fraud allegedly surrounding a now-blocked foreclosure sale of Elvis Presleys famed Graceland mansion, according to TMZ and Radar.

The outlets reported Wednesday that the FBI had contacted actor Riley Keoughs team and Graceland officials on Tuesday, allegedly expressing interest in Naussany Investments & Private Lending LLC, the company seeking to auction off the building.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation told The Times via email that it had not received a request to investigate from the district attorney general in Shelby County, which would be the mechanism for our potential involvement.

Representatives for Keough did not immediately respond to The Times request for confirmation and comment.

Keough filed a lawsuit against Naussany Investments last week, alleging that the company had presented fraudulent documents stating that her late mother, Lisa Marie Presley, had borrowed $3.8 million from the company and gave a deed of trust encumbering Graceland as security.

The Daisy Jones & the Six star stated in her lawsuit  which asked a judge to block the auction of Graceland and to declare that the documents were fraudulent  that Lisa Marie Presley never borrowed money from Naussany Investments and never gave a deed of trust to Naussany Investments.

A Tennessee judge awarded Keough a temporary injunction against the sale on Wednesday. The court also said it would move forward with the fraud case, citing a lack of appearance by Naussany Investments representatives at Wednesdays hearing and the need for additional evidence from Keoughs lawyers.

After the ruling, a person purporting to be a Naussany Investments representative submitted a statement that said the company would drop its claims on Graceland, the Associated Press reported.

Elvis Presley Enterprises, which manages the Presley estate, told The Times in a statement Wednesday that business would continue as usual.

As the court has now made clear, there was no validity to the claims, the statement read. There will be no foreclosure. Graceland will continue to operate as it has for the past 42 years, ensuring that Elvis fans from around the world can continue to have a best in class experience when visiting his iconic home.

Keoughs lawsuit, which was reviewed by The Times, said Naussany Investments presented a deed of trust for Graceland and a standard promissory note to the estate via the Los Angeles County Superior Court in September.

The deed of trust contained the signature of Florida notary Kimberly Philbrick, who submitted an affidavit May 8 saying she had no involvement with the documents.

I have never met Lisa Marie Presley, nor have I ever notarized a document signed by Lisa Marie Presley, Philbricks affidavit read. I do not know why my signature appears on this document.

Keough was formally named the sole trustee of her mothers estate  and, by extension, of Elvis estate  in November after settling a legal dispute with grandmother Priscilla Presley, Elvis widow.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The United Auto Workers wants a new vote at Alabamas Mercedes-Benz factory.

The union is petitioning the National Labor Relations Board to reject last weeks union election at the German automakers Vance plant and order a new election.

A spokesperson for the NLRB confirmed the unions objections. The NLRB regional director will review the objections and could hold a hearing to determine if a second election should be held.

Earlier this month, the union filed unfair labor practice allegations against Mercedes.

The UAW contends that the company violated labor law when it fired four pro-union workers and allowed anti-union employees to solicit support on company time, while at the same time preventing union supporters from doing the same.

A Mercedes spokesperson said more than 90 percent of the plants workforce made their voices heard through a secret-ballot vote and the majority indicated they are not interested in being represented by the UAW for purposes of collective bargaining.

Our goal throughout this process was to ensure every eligible Team Member had the opportunity to participate in a fair election. We sincerely hoped the UAW would respect our Team Members decision. Throughout the election, we worked with the NLRB to adhere to its guidelines and we will continue to do so as we work through this process. Meanwhile, we will work directly with our Team Members on measures to ensure we remain an employer of choice and provide a safe and supportive work environment. We want to continue to build on and enhance the success this plant has achieved over the past 25+ years to continue building superior vehicles for the world while also focusing on our people.

Workers last week at Vance and the companys Bibb County battery plant voted 2,045 to 2,642 against UAW representation -- a margin of 597 votes.

See also: Why the union vote failed at Alabamas Mercedes-Benz plant

In a statement, the union said the more than 2,000 workers at the plant voted yes after an unprecedented, illegal anti-union campaign waged against them by their employer.

What that tells us is that in a fair fight, where Mercedes is held accountable to following the law, workers will win their union, the UAW stated. All these workers ever wanted was a fair shot at having a voice on the job and a say in their working conditions. And thats what were asking for here. Lets get a vote at Mercedes in Alabama where the company isnt allowed to fire people, isnt allowed to intimidate people, and isnt allowed to break the law and their own corporate code, and let the workers decide.

Its not the first time a union has attempted to get the results of a workplace election thrown out.

Workers at Amazons Bessemer fulfillment center voted down joining the Retail, Wholesale & Department Store Union (RWDSU) in 2021 in a mail-in election over several weeks, but the result was set aside by the NLRB after it found Amazon interfered in the election process. That came after a contentious campaign during COVID restrictions, which drew celebrities, politicians and even the attention of the Biden Administration.

Ballots in the second election were tallied on March 31, 2022, its results still the subject of a challenge.

This is a developing story and will be updated.
A police chase that started in Morgan County ended in Cullman County with an innocent motorist struck and killed by the fleeing suspect, authorities said.

Ellarea Dickson, 77, of Crane Hill was pronounced dead on the scene.

Two others were transported to area hospitals with injuries, and a suspect is in custody.

Cullman County Sheriffs Lt. Chad Whaley said the chase began Friday morning in Hartselle. It wasnt immediately clear what launched the pursuit.

The chase continued into Cullman County where it ended in a crash on U.S. 31 in the city of Cullman near the South Cullman Shopping Center.

Whaley said the suspect struck several vehicles.

Multiple agencies were involved in the pursuit including Hartselle, Cullman, and Falkville police as well as the Alabama State Troopers.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
A compound causing drinking water to have an earthy taste have significantly decreased in portions of the Birmingham Water Works territory, the utility said Friday.

On May 20th, BWW was made aware of customers in the UAB area, North Hoover, Homewood, portions of Vestavia Hills, and Mountain Brook experiencing water with an earthy taste. We are pleased to inform you that the levels of geosmin in our water supply have significantly decreased, although some customers may still notice a slight earthy taste, the utility said in a statement Friday afternpon. Our Water Quality team will continue to diligently monitor and test the water to ensure its quality and safety for all our customers.

A BWW spokesman could not immediately be reached to quantify the levels of geosmin in the water.

Earlier this week, residents of several Birmingham suburbs began complaining about a nasty and soil-like taste to their drinking water.

Birmingham Water Works registered complaints from customers in north Hoover, Homewood, Mountain Brook, portions of Vestavia Hills and in the UAB area.

Our sampling indicates increased levels of geosmin in the drinking water which is responsible for the recent taste and odor questions. geosmin is a naturally occurring compound, said in response to the complaints on Wednesday.

There are no negative health effects associated with the consumption of geosmin. geosmin is what gives fresh grapes, wines, beets, mushroom, and carrots their earthy smell and taste, the statement continued. Drinking water utilities throughout the world that use rivers, lakes, and streams as sources of drinking water production often have fluctuations in geosmin levels due to seasonal changes, especially in the spring.

According to the American Chemical Society, geosmin is a natural bicyclic terpene with an earthy odor.

The human nose can detect it at concentrations in air as low as five parts per trillion. Its the reason why a beet smells like a beet.

It was first described in 1936 in London, and was named by scientists at Rutgers University 30 years later, from the Greek words for earth and smell.

Birmingham Water Works says testing shows the water is safe to drink.
Skeptical council members in a Birmingham area town have hired a state lawmaker to assess the credibility of a recent report that outlines allegations of professional misconduct against their police chief.

While Tarrant Mayor Wayman Newton has described the report as a smoking gun against Chief Wendell Major, council members say it doesnt stand up to scrutiny.

Lawyers for the council have tapped state Rep. Juandalynn Givan, an attorney in Birmingham, to analyze the report that was released this week, containing allegations that the chief downgraded criminal charges in some cases and complaints of discrimination by three police department employees. Major denies any wrongdoing or professional misconduct.

My role is simple  to remain neutral and to give a review and assessment of the report, Givan told AL.com. This probably should have been done before the report was released. Givan said.

The Tarrant council in February hired Debra Black Leo, a lawyer and investigator in Birmingham, to investigate the mayors allegations against the chief. The investigation cost the city $18,700.

But this week, the council dismissed that 13-page report with nearly 700 pages of attachments as one-sided and incomplete.

Givans summary and assessment of the report is expected in a few days.

They can hire all the investigators that they want, Mayor Newton told AL.com, but its not going to change the facts. And those facts are that he did all the things that I initially said he did.

The mayor has cited the report as a strong reason to fire the chief, a request the council unanimously rejected again on Monday.

Councilwoman and Mayor Pro-tem Tracie Threadford told AL.com earlier this week that the council rejected the report because it did not include interviews with the entire police department but relied heavily on critics of the chief.

Givan said she has begun interviewing some people who were not interviewed in the first report by Leo.

Charlie Waldrep, lawyer for the city council, said he hired Givan not to produce a new report, but to give her opinion of Leos report.

We felt like we needed somebody who was independent of the mayor to review the Leo report and give us their insight, he said.

Givan said the public allegations against the chief merit another look.

Lawyers do it all the time and we ask for an in-depth review. It should keep it cleaner, she said. Its just a second eye on the report. Because there were a lot of allegations made that were spoken publicly relative to the chief of Tarrant.
A man and woman have been arrested following a grand jury indictment for severe child abuse.

Kaliyah Berniece Vaughn, 23, and Brynt Joshua Taylor, 23, were arrested Wednesday, both charged with assault-torture/willful abuse of a child.

According to Florence police, the two were indicted by the Lauderdale County Grand Jury.

The charges came in connection with an incident in May 2023, in which Vaughns 10-month-old baby reportedly suffered serious burns.

According to police, the baby had second degree burns on both feet and third degree burns on the back.

Doctors at North Alabama Medical Center who treated the baby contacted the police about possible child abuse.
Grammy-winning producer, creative director, and acclaimed trumpeter and vocalist Brian Newman is bringing back the spirit of classic New York City as he returns for his residency: "Brian Newman's After Dark," co-produced by his burlesque icon wife, Angie Pontani.

The residency will start at the Mastercard Midnight Theatre this coming June 7 with Newman's patented uniquely memorable performances front and center for would-be patrons.

About 'Brian Newman's After Dark'

The all-rounded entertainer promises a thrilling and highly acclaimed experience filled with amazing music and genre-crossing special guests including Pontani, the king of comedy Murray Hill, The After Dark Dancers, and a rotating cast of guest stage and screen stars.

Newman's performances will be backed by a swinging ten-piece ensemble that will underscore each unforgettable night's unique "after dark" experience. For ticketing information, click here.

The artist will put on show his instrumental mastery and musicality that he spent over 25 years developing, entertaining people in various venues such as hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants.

Although mainly influenced by the likes of jazz legends Miles Davis and Chet Baker, Newman also looks toward modern artists like Nirvana and Bruce Springsteen to learn from and develop his creativity after.

This openness to contemporary pop culture gave way to major collaborations, including working with Lady Gaga for her Las Vegas jazz band as a trumpeter and as the co-producer for the "A Star is Born" movie's "La Vie En Rose" rendition.

He also currently directs Bruno Mars' band at the Bellagio and curates performances at Aman New York's Jazz Club. As a performer, his Vegas residency "Brian Newman: AFTER DARK" is widely celebrated for evoking the classic "Sin City" flair.

Mastercard Midnight Theatre is located on the Manhattan West Plaza between 31st and 33rd streets, between 9th and 10th avenues in Manhattan. For more information on the show, visit Midnight Theatre's official website here.
Federal prosecutors say a Florida man induced Alabama minors to engage in sex to produce videos, and cyberstalked three people on social media apps in two counties in Alabama over nearly three years.

A federal grand jury indicted Trevon Lamont Brown, 23, of Marion County, Fla., on two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of sexual exploitation of children, two counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, and three counts of cyberstalking.

U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Katrina W. Berger announced the nine-count indictment Friday.

Prosecutors say Brown enticed two individuals in June 2023 by use of force, threats of force, fraud, and coercion to engage in commercial sex acts in Madison County.

Between August 2021 and November 2021, Brown is accused of inducing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for videos.

Additionally, prosecutors say that between December 2020 and March 2021, Brown enticed and coerced another minor to engage in sexual exploitation.

Brown was also charged with cyberstalking three individuals in Jefferson County over nearly three years, from 2020 through 2023, through TextNow and Snapchat.

Homeland Security Investigations Birmingham office investigated the case, along with the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), and police in Clarksville, Tenn. and Ocala, Fla.
A former corrections officer at an Alabama federal prison was sentenced Thursday for sexually abusing an inmate more than five years ago, prosecutors said.

Robert D. Smith, a 39-year-old former corrections officer at the Federal Correctional Institution in Aliceville, in Pickens County, was sentenced to two years in federal prison followed by 15 years of supervised release.

He pleaded guilty on Jan. 11 to sexually abusing a ward.

Robert Smith has been held to account for abusing his position of trust by sexually assaulting an adult in his custody, said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. Todays sentence marks the latest step forward in the Justice Departments ongoing campaign to root out sexual misconduct from the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Department will continue to hold accountable any BOP employee who violates their oath to protect those in their care through sexual assault.

According to court documents and trial evidence, Smith sexually abused the female inmate when he and the victim were in his office in the facilities department. There were no cameras and the assault occurred away from other inmates and corrections officers, prosecutors said.

Corrections officers have the responsibility to ensure the safety and security of those incarcerated in our nations prisons, said Prim F. Escalona, U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Alabama. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute corrections officers who abuse inmates and violate positions of public trust.

Smith also admitted to sexually abusing another inmate on a different occasion.

Also while acting in his capacity as an officer, between July 6, 2018, and Nov. 15, 2018, Smith knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a female inmate in official detention, who was under Smiths custodial, supervisory or disciplinary authority, prosecutors said. Smith committed that offense in the mechanical room, which he accessed with a key, and which was also away from cameras and other inmates and officers.

Beyond the view of the cameras and the eyes of potential witnesses, this defendant sexually abused and assaulted vulnerable women inmates and thought he would get away with his crimes, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. This case should send an unequivocal message to officials working in correctional settings that we have zero tolerance for sexual assaults of women held inside jails and prisons. We encourage the survivors of these heinous crimes to report acts of official misconduct and violence to the FBI. The Justice Department will continue to aggressively prosecute those who violate the civil and constitutional rights of people detained in correctional facilities.

Added Justice Department Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz: Todays sentencing holds Smith accountable for the serious crimes he committed. Smith sexually abused multiple inmates and he did so by taking them to areas of the prison without camera coverage. As the Office of Inspector General (OIG) has repeatedly found, the effective use of cameras by the FBOP is critical to preventing and deterring such criminal wrongdoing at its facilities.
Americans have been swindled by Social Security and most people wont get the benefit, according to Sen. Tommy Tuberville.

No, most people wont get Social Security, Alabamas senior senator, a Republican, told Newsmax TVs Carl Higbie FRONTLINE.

Its just unfortunate, Tuberville told Higbie, according to the station. It was a tax that was levied on the American people years ago, sold a bill of goods. Hey, were going to take care of your retirement.

Tuberville didnt specify when the benefit would run out, but the Treasury Departments latest Social Security and Medicare Trustees Report, released earlier this month, projected the Social Security Trust Fund would be depleted in 2035.

Once its funds are depleted, Social Security would be in the position to pay 83% of scheduled benefits, a higher percentage than indicated in previous years.

Tuberville has been a longtime critic of Social Security.

At a Senate hearing in February, Tuberville said he paid $1 million into Social Security and receives $3,000 a month from the program.

He claimed he could have $8 million to $10 million if he had been able to invest his Social Security taxes privately but the federal government wasted his contributions.

This is all a scam, I mean, we got people who are ready to retire thats going to try to live off $2,000 to $3,000 -- impossible, he said. With $35 trillion in debt, we dont have any of your money. were dead broke.,

Tuberville envisioned riots in Washington if lawmakers dont account for the depleted funds.

We better start figuring that out because were going to have a run on this city here soon, and theres going to be about 150 million people coming up here saying Wheres our damn money that we paid in? the senator said.
Big government environmental fixes often result in unintended environmental or human health consequences that are worse than the original problem the government solution was meant to solve.

Nowhere is this clearer than with government efforts to fight climate change, an effort in vain if ever there was one.

In Climate Change Weekly, I have detailed the high environmental costs and dangers to people that come with electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels -- from fires, to the human and environmental impact of the mining and refining of the minerals necessary to produce and operate them, to the waste problems they create.

As whale deaths mount on the East Coast, The Heartland Institute along with our allies at CFACT and the National Legal and Policy Center have filed a lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order on Dominion Energys plans to begin pile driving for construction of the base and tower portions of 176 giant offshore wind turbines it plans to erect at great economic and environmental costs off the coast of Virginia as part of President Bidens all of government approach to fight climate change.

CFACT has established a great resource devoted to the myriad environmental problems -- including the threat to the endangered North Atlantic Right Whale (NARW) from the push for offshore wind along the East Coast. These turbines are being erected right in the middle of NARW and other protected marine mammals habitat and migration routes. In the rush to erect these turbines quickly, the federal government and Dominion played fast and loose with the rules and permits, in particular failing to follow the law and proper procedures in accounting for potential comprehensive, cumulative whale impacts.

Research released after Dominion had already received permission from the federal government to proceed, shows that, contrary to what Dominion and the Biden administration have claimed in their reports, the ships contracted to do the pile driving produce an amount of noise during operations that exceeds what federal biologists have determined to be safe for whales.

Mind you, for all the damage these offshore turbines will do to a variety of marine mammals and the ocean ecosystem, they will produce no measurable reduction on global temperatures.

Scotland provides an interesting case study concerning the environmentally harmful unintended consequences produced by government climate policies.

First, Scotland pitted one climate solution against another by cutting down nearly 16 million trees -- you know, those carbon sinks that everyone, including wildlife, loves -- to make way for wind turbines. That is an average of more than 1,700 trees destroyed each day.

To make matters worse, the turbines are disintegrating quickly, scattering tons of microplastics across the Scottish countryside in the process. As the Scottish Daily Express revealed early in 2023, the edges and tips of the turbine blades are shredding during operation, resulting in small particles and larger chunks of composite waste littering the countryside and possibly fouling the waters with various chemicals.

No one knows how big the problem is because the Scottish government has refused to account for it, nor has it mandated that the companies involved do so. Environmentalists have calculated a single turbine can drop up to 62 kilos of microplastics annually and Scotland has 19,000 turbines. You do the math.

Lest one think Scotlands environmental conditions or wind turbines are unique in some fashion, recent research from Sweden has also found that turbines there are shedding microplastics as well. The study reported that turbines were shedding tons of microplastics, polluting the surrounding land and waters with more than 50 different chemicals released as the composite materials erode and break down.

Back to Scotlands great experiment in fighting climate change. The Scottish Daily Express reports that Scotland has banned the installation of wood burning stoves in new and remodeled homes as part of the push to reduce emissions.

The decision was made even though a government commission specifically found that wood burning stoves actually emit less CO2 than the alternatives pushed by the government: wind turbines, solar panels, and heat pumps. Indeed, the government study found that wind, solar, and heat pumps produce 48, 105, and 123 grams of carbon dioxide per kilowatt hour respectively, compared to just 25 g/Kwh, for wood stoves.

Can someone explain to me, if carbon dioxide is the danger, how mandating technologies that produce more CO2 than good old wood, as a replacement for wood, makes climate sense?

It seems the Scottish governments headlong rush for net zero is actually being undermined by its own policies.

To top all of this off, recent peer-reviewed research demonstrates that the push to replace plastics with alternatives because plastics are made of fossil fuels, could result in higher carbon dioxide emissions -- the dread gas alarmists are most concerned about. In particular, the research assessed 16 applications across five key sectors where plastics are used, accounting for about 90 percent of the global plastic volume. The results: For 15 of the 16 applications a plastic product produced less GHG emissions than their alternatives, as much as 90 percent fewer emissions across the respective products life cycle for some applications.

Objective data reveal no evidence that climate change is causing a crisis today, meaning we have time to get the technology right. Because there is no pending climate apocalypse there is no justification for mandating the use of technologies that research and experience shows are environmentally harmful and unsafe.

H. Sterling Burnett, Ph.D., (hsburnett@heartland.org) is the director of the Arthur B. Robinson Center on Climate and Environmental Policy at The Heartland Institute, a non-partisan, non-profit research organization based in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Image: Michael Murtagh / Donegal: Storm Damage To Wind Generator At Gweedore
Tyranny takes hold when good people are lulled into inaction. Those of us who mind our own business and prefer government to leave us alone are particularly prone to falling into this trap. Because we have no use for government, we hope government will have no use for us. So we are silent while evil grows far from our homes. We tend to our basic comforts and ignore evil as it nears. And, eventually, we even collaborate with evil in order to avoid making a public scene. In an effort to get by without causing too many waves, tyrannys waves grow bigger and stronger until they crash upon our homes. By then, it is too late to batten down the hatches. Evil has already broken through our doors.

I had hoped that we would have more time. That must be the common sentiment shared by every generation grappling with what comes next. I had hoped that the sheer destruction of the twentieth century would be enough to buy us many more decades of relative peace. Regrettably, two world wars and a nuclear-tipped Cold War did nothing to temper governments lust for power or their financial backers lust for wealth. WWIs clash of empires should have discouraged the growth of trigger-happy alliances and endless conquest. The evil unleashed by WWIIs totalitarian regimes should have discouraged the growth of centralized institutions and vast, unaccountable, just following orders bureaucracies. Instead, military alliances, central banks, international governing bodies, administrative Leviathans, and trade organizations have accumulated more power today than at any other time in history. The twenty-first century is the century of empire-building and totalitarianism, and unless ordinary people rein in the excesses of their own governments, the mass destruction that follows will make the first two world wars look like measly hors doeuvres.

Can it be done? Can global bloodshed be averted? Can Western nations be saved before they devolve into hotbeds of revolution and civil war? Or do the mounting conflicts all around us signify that we are already too late? The answers to those questions depend, in part, on whether regular citizens sufficiently resist being used as cannon fodder in the years ahead and whether global leaders sufficiently fear losing everything they now have. Had the great monarchies of Europe understood that WWI would facilitate their demise, perhaps they would have been more hesitant to allow a tangled web of military alliances to decide their fate. Chasing honor and glory led European nobles straight to their graves. Had Mussolini, Hitler, and Tojo known that they would die shamefully, perhaps their thirst for empire could have been quenched. Lord Actons famous observation deserves a corollary: those who seek absolute power must be destroyed absolutely.

One of the peculiarities of our own time is that so many people remain blind to the totalitarianism growing and spreading around them. Western governments have seized the authority to tell us what is true and what must be censored as harmful disinformation. They openly spy on our phone calls, read our emails, record every Internet search and keyboard click on our computers, and monitor our social media conversations. They tell us which politically correct words we must use and which words are outlawed for inciting hate. They have criminalized reading from parts of the Bible or acting with religious conviction. They insist on manipulating the value of money and rigging markets in ways that confiscate the meager savings of the have-nots and further enrich the well-to-do. Corporations and government ministers work together to spread the same propaganda. Mainstream news media operate as compliant mouthpieces for the State. Banks discriminate against customers due to their personal beliefs. Companies fire employees for not being sufficiently woke. Prosecutors contort statutes into weapons that can be used to punish innocent people for their political speech. Westerners have no need to learn about the rise of totalitarianism from dusty history books describing the decades between WWI and WWII. It thrives right outside our windows. Hell, it operates on every piece of technology with a camera or microphone already inside our homes.

Totalitarianism has triumphed under the guise of progress. Behind every shiny new toys discreet surveillance of our private lives is a steroid-induced, rage-filled strongman working not-so-secretly to enslave us. Would you like to safeguard your most intimate photographs? All you have to do is upload them to a magical cloud. The corporations entrusted with your valuable secrets promise to respect your privacy. Would you like your automobile to provide real-time traffic alerts? Then just tap, yes, when the geolocation satellite system seeks to track your movements. Would you prefer the ease of buying convenience store items with a wave of your hand? Then please allow your Obamacare government doctor to insert a computer chip under your skin, so that the Federal Reserve can track how you use its central bank digital currency. Technological convenience is the gateway drug to universal surveillance. And universal surveillance is an iron fist in a velvet glove demanding compliance.

Western governments learned nothing from global war, famine, economic depression, or State-sponsored genocide except how to hide their worst impulses inside the glittery wrappers of Orwellian language. How many times have we heard unaccountable functionaries from the United Nations, the Bank for International Settlements, or the World Health Organization claim to be acting on the publics behalf? Yet regular people have no control over these immensely powerful organizations. The UN, BIS, and WHO are elitist institutions that cater to other elites. There is no way for an average Joe or Jane to influence their policy decisions, even when those decisions regulate the most personal details of an individuals life. There is nothing remotely democratic or representative about self-described experts using their powers to coerce ordinary people into submission.

How many times have we heard U.S. State Department officials, Canadian politicians, U.K. prime ministers, NATO strategists, or European Union talking heads lecture citizens about the need for Western democracies to fight authoritarian regimes? Yet Western governments were every bit as authoritarian during the Reign of COVID Terror as the authoritarian States that they denounce. Communist China implemented the most draconian COVID lockdowns in the world  incarcerating entire cities with scarce supplies of food and disappearing those who dared to resist  and Western governments not only applauded Chinas brutal despotism but also attempted to replicate its evil machinery throughout the West. Even more perplexing, the same Western democracies that routinely demonize Russia as an authoritarian boogeyman that must be destroyed nevertheless enrich communist China with lucrative trade deals and shower Chinese tyrants with obsequious displays of respect. Could it be that Western leaders are perfectly happy with authoritarianism so long as they are the authorities making money and maintaining total political control? Their hypocritical actions speak for themselves.

Communism, fascism, Nazism, Maoism, socialism  it doesnt matter what its called. To butcher Shakespeares Juliet: Tyranny by any other name still stinks. All forms of collectivism are inherently totalitarian. They are unsustainable without violence and eventually survive on force alone. So-called anti-fascists are the most fascist street thugs operating today; they use billionaire donations to fund domestic terrorism that is meant to intimidate civilians into complying with the wishes of wealthy elites who already control the levers of government. If Antifa members were really anti-fascist, they would beat up themselves.

The prudent way to understand our volatile times is to recognize them as the opening battles in an incipient war between government totalitarians and staunch defenders of human liberty. What is globalism, after all, if not a system for maximizing the coercive power of a small number of international elites while denying citizens inalienable rights and freedoms? Everything else is a calculated distraction.

Image: JSMed via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
On May 16, Foreign Policy magazine published an article by three experienced intelligence officers, including one who has chronically politicized U.S. intelligence, who argued that the U.S. intelligence community (IC) is getting a bad rap at a critical point in history for unfortunate, unjustified reasons. Only the first part of the assertion is correct. Far more accurate would have been a judgment that the declining respect for the IC reflected in polls is a direct result of the recent partisan political activism and dishonesty of ostensibly respectable senior former intelligence officers and many inaccurate leaks by current intelligence officers, mainly against candidate and then President Donald Trump.

This activism is new. For many decades the organizational culture at the CIA, most importantly given its role of supporting presidents, was that intelligence officers inform all presidents as best they can in apolitical ways, whatever the receptivity of presidents to intelligence or the accuracy of their complaints about intelligence. People believed politicization of any sort -- from the political Right or Left -- damages the usefulness of intelligence and agency interests. Insightful intelligence officers such as the CIAs Martin Petersen knew that intelligence had to perform well constantly to maintain presidential confidence and that errors in judgment and lapses in integrity had severely negative, long-term consequences. There was no need for an intelligence norm equivalent to the militarys normative prohibition on political activism by former generals and admirals because intelligence officers rarely were politically active. There had never been a General Douglas MacArthur-like challenge to presidential authority.

But President Obama sought to change the demographics and the political complexion of the federal work force, and intelligence leaders such as CIA director John Brennan (2013-2017) made clear that they intended to change the organizational cultures of agencies in politically significant ways. They succeeded brilliantly, with overt activism in defense of Obama/Brennan changes beginning in 2016, when Trump emerged as a potential threat to the progress that Obamas policies allegedly had achieved.

This radical change became glaringly obvious when former CIA deputy director Michael Morell invoked his CIA credentials in a New York Times op-ed to rationalize endorsing Hillary Clinton for president while harshly criticizing Trump. Morell then became one of the talking heads, along with Brennan, former director of national intelligence James Clapper, former CIA director Michael Hayden, and several dozen less-senior people whom the mainstream liberal press promoted as legitimate observers of everything relevant to their anti-Trump campaign. In 2018, senior CIA officer Peter Usowski noted that partisan activism by former CIA officers, whose last titles always precede their names in public discourse, was likely to be seen widely as activism by the agency proper. Usowskis insightful observation was ignored.

It got worse. Among the worst ways, Morell admitted to the House Judiciary Committee that he and former CIA operations officer Marc Polymeropoulos connived in October 2020 with the Joe Biden campaign in the person of Antony Blinken to debunk an accurate New York Post story that Hunter Bidens laptop computer, abandoned at a repair shop, contained information suggesting that he and Joe Biden may have corruptly sold influence abroad. Morell and Polymeropoulos wrote a prospective open letter suggesting that the laptops contents, which the FBI had already determined were genuine, had all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation. Fifty-one former intelligence officers signed the letter. The insinuation worked. Politico, which had published earlier politically-oriented open letters, obligingly converted the linguistic obfuscation of the letter into a definitive statement of Russian culpability in its headline. With intelligence help, Joe Biden won his election, averting an October surprise. One recipient of a Morell-Polymeropoulos pitch told me the explicit goal of the solicitation was to help Biden, not recruit expertise about Russian disinformation techniques.

Brennan was nearly as bad. In op-eds and tweets, he repeatedly bashed Trump, charging that Trump was a dupe of Russian President Vladmir Putin, calling him treasonous, and comparing him to swindler Bernie Madoff. Brennan also, while still CIA director, urged CIA employees to be politically active, arguably coming at least close to violating the 1939 Hatch Act that prohibits political activities by serving government employees.

Hayden, who published a fine book in 2016, published an emotional anti-Trump diatribe in 2018 that is riddled with errors. Titled The Assault on Intelligence, it documents no such thing. Trump largely ignored intelligence and the federal workforce generally. In October 2023, Hayden tweeted that Senator Tommy Tuberville should be removed from the human race, which led Tuberville to report Hayden to the U.S. Capitol police and others as an assassination threat.

The list of outrageous claims is long. Some, like many of Brennans, were simply outlandish. Many others were untrue. Many activist partisans, who accurately noted Trumps casual respect for facts, wantonly misrepresented Trump and their own motives and actions. Several prominent critics, including Brennan, Clapper, and the FBIs James Comey and Andrew McCabe, were accused pointedly of lying. Use of favorable versions of truth became a frequent tool of the politicization of intelligence. Chronic, blatantly obvious dishonesty is not conducive to public confidence in people who claim to speak truth to power.

Serving intelligence officers politicized in different ways. Unable to appear on MSNBC or write op-eds, they leaked often incorrect information -- falsehoods designed to damage Trump. Leaks surged early in the Trump administration and evidently remained at lofty levels. These included incorrect reports that Trump received briefings in early 2020 about the dangers of COVID and did nothing to address the problem. The Defense Department refuted the assertions. More significantly, the ICs analytic ombudsman reported that China analysts in the IC withheld information from the White House that they believed might help Trump administration officials -- a potential national security threat.

Given this history, intelligence partisans of recent years unsurprisingly are again misrepresenting the legacy of activism of recent years. But it is hard to know how much is purposeful dishonesty and how much is self-delusion. National Intelligence University faculty incongruously argued in 2021 that Hollywood fables were to blame in part for growing public distrust of intelligence and that intelligence should better tout its value.

Hence, public confidence in intelligence, rationally, is declining. A Rasmussen poll released in October 2023 found that only 36% of American voters believed that intelligence agencies behaved in an impartial manner, while 51% said the agencies have their own political agendas. And 65% believed it likely that the agencies are influencing corporate medias coverage of political issues. Another Rasmussen poll released in March 2024 showed that most Americans think the IC is trying to influence the 2024 presidential election. Per Peter Usowski, this is an understandable fear given the actions of Morell, Brennan, Comey, and many others since 2016, whether senior intelligence executives now orchestrate politicization directly or not. While many intelligence professionals lament the activism quietly, some have spoken against the politicization. For example, former CIA counterintelligence chief Mark Kelton observed that widespread worry in 2015, when Brennan was director, about fraying professional discipline of the workforce turned into a tsunami of leaks in the Trump years.

It is axiomatic in many walks of life that trust is earned slowly but can be destroyed easily. Hard, honest work done consistently over a long time is the only way to rebuild trust in intelligence. Restoration of the longstanding norms of apolitical public service and establishment of new norms of civil-military-like conduct are essential to restoring trust. But current and former intelligence officers first need to recognize that they caused the problem and accept that the task of rebuilding confidence in intelligence is theirs alone. There is, however, no evidence that many of them yet see the problem. Instead, the ideology and interests that led intelligence officers to oppose Trump in 2016 seem likely to reappear, especially given that Trump seems to recognize that he ignored management of the federal workforce in 2017-2021 and appears determined to remedy his error if he wins in November. Many of the activist former officers have irreparably damaged their credibility, but others seem likely to emerge.

In another election year, citizens should remember that intelligence activism of any sort by current or former intelligence officers reflects gross violations of longstanding, effective norms that intelligence people well understand. Citizens should remember, too, that the politicizers try to deflect responsibility for their actions and are practiced in doing so.

John A. Gentry is a former CIA analyst and author of Neutering the CIA: Why US Intelligence Versus Trump Has Long-Term Consequences. Follow him at @gentry_johna.

Image: CIA
Lets add another state to the list of blues losing people and taxpayers. Its Massachusetts, or one of the original 13, but another one bites the dust, proving the reality that going blue has consequences.

This is the story:

Massachusetts is in danger of losing nearly $1 billion in annual revenue over the coming years as high state taxes trigger an exodus of wealthy residents. Since 2013, migration out of Massachusetts has seen an alarming 1,100% increase to more than 39,000 people, according to new findings published by Boston Universitys Questrom School of Business. If the trend continues, more than 96,000 residents making a cumulative $19.2 billion in adjusted gross income will leave the state by 2030. The study estimates those departures would cost Massachusetts about $961 million in income tax revenue each year. The Bay State has already lost $821 million in income tax revenue since 2011.

Thats a lot of outflow as I remember a stand up comedian once saying. Its a lot of money and a lot of the people who make the money happen.

According to the story, people are leaving because of three reasons: a high tax burden, expensive housing, and health care costs. There goes Obamacare again!

Another reality is that remote work policies have made it easier for prime age workers to leave. Why does that matter? Prime age workers buy homes and cars, and pay taxes.

Will things change? I hope so because necessity is often the mother of change. At some point, even liberals realize that driving away taxpayers is a bad idea.

P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos.

Image generated by AI.
The Washington Free Beacon had a blow-out expose yesterday: Thanks to DEI, almost half of UCLAs medical students are provably incompetent. Theyre students at what was once one of the nations premier medical schools solely because theyre non-white, despite California voters having made affirmative action illegal in 1996.

Despite not being a doctor, I have some insight into whats happened. In the early 1990s, I dated a medical student who attended the University of California in San Francisco, which was then (and probably still is) considered one of the best medical schools in the world. I knew most of my boyfriends classmates (class sizes were small). They were predominantly white and Asian, they worked insanely hard, and even the worst performing in the class, no matter their race, were pretty darn smart and quite capable of being decent doctors.

AI image by atlascompany.

By the mid-1990s, things were already changing. Through my legal work, I met a young man who had been railroaded by a cabal of minority women in his residency. They wanted him out and werent above making defamatory claims against him. The residency program backed the women, although it was clear they were lying.

In other words, the pieces were already in place for the Washington Free Beacons damning expose about the DEI disaster unfolding at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) medical school. Under the guidance of Jennifer Lucero, who is also vice chair for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the anesthesiology department, the admissions program gave places in the class to manifestly unqualified people. It did so entirely based upon the applicants race. Now, that same cohort of students is proving to be dangerously incompetent:

In interviews with the Free Beacon and complaints to UCLA officials, including investigators in the universitys Discrimination Prevention Office, faculty members with firsthand knowledge of the admissions process say it has prioritized diversity over merit, resulting in progressively less qualified classes that are now struggling to succeed. Race-based admissions have turned UCLA into a failed medical school, said one former member of the admissions staff. We want racial diversity so badly, were willing to cut corners to get it.

Reporter Aaron Sibarium interviewed several professors at the medical school, reviewed internal UCLA correspondence, and examined internal data about student performance. The latter, especially, show that the faculty members were right to be dismayed about what had happened to a once reliable institution:

Within three years of Luceros hiring in 2020, UCLA dropped from 6th to 18th place in U.S. News & World Reports rankings for medical research. And in some of the cohorts she admitted, more than 50 percent of students failed standardized tests on emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. Those tests, known as shelf exams, which are typically taken at the end of each clinical rotation, measure basic medical knowledge and play a pivotal role in residency applications. Though only 5 percent of students fail each test nationally, the rates are much higher at UCLA, having increased tenfold in some subjects since 2020, according to internal data obtained by the Free Beacon.

The test data align with the facultys experience with students who were obviously admitted under the new standards:

One professor said that a student in the operating room could not identify a major artery when asked, then berated the professor for putting her on the spot. Another said that students at the end of their clinical rotations dont know basic lab tests and, in some cases, are unable to present patients.

If youre wondering how UCLA managed to admit so many low-performing minorities even though racial preferences/affirmative action became illegal in California in 1996, the answer is academias workaround of focusing on applicants life experiences. If your life experience is that youve suffered from being a minority...youre in.

Lucera routinely browbeat admission committee members into focusing entirely on that aspect of a minoritys application rather than on actual qualifications:

Lucero hasnt been kind to dissenters. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, six people whove worked with her described a pattern of racially charged incidents that has dispirited officials and pushed some of them to resign from the committee. She has lashed out at officials who question the qualifications of minority candidates, five sources said, suggesting naysayers are privileged, implying that they are racist, and subjecting them to diversity training sessions. After a Native American applicant was rejected in 2021, for example, Lucero chewed out the committee and made members sit through a two-hour lecture on Native history delivered by her own sister, according to three people familiar with the incident. No applications were reviewed that day, an official present for the lecture said.

I urge you to read the entire article. Its illuminating in a dispiriting way.

The great irony of all this is that Lucero is planting innumerable poison pills in the communities she claims to serve. When challenged about admitting an underqualified black candidate, she lashed out:

Did you not know African-American women are dying at a higher rate than everybody else? Lucero asked the admissions officer, these people said. The candidates scores shouldnt matter, she continued, because we need people like this in the medical school.

In other words, Lucero intends to send incompetent doctors to treat those dying black women, something that will only ensure that those same sad women die in ever greater numbers.

James Lindsay likes to say, The issue is never the issue. The issue is always the revolution. For people like Lucero, if the road to revolution needs to be paved by the bodies of dead black women, so be it.
A lot of people have commented on the nasty and divisive racism that permeated Joe Bidens speech to the Morehouse College class of 2024. Biden assured the grads that theyre entering a world that hates them and blocks them at every turn. However, thats par for the Democrat course. What really struck me, aside from Bidens obsession with himself, was the complete absence of any aspirational ideas. These graduates werent told to go forth and be wonderful. They were told to abandon all hope, ye who exit here, and that their only salvation was the government.

I have a hard time listening to Biden. His slurring, mumbling, and shouting, along with his reptilian appearance (its something around the eyes), irritate me. I do better when I focus solely on his words, which I found on the White House website. To spare you the agony of reading it, I've listed his topics in the order in which they appear. Take a minute to read them because a few things will jump out at you:

Morehouses founding after the Civil War.

His bio (college, first marriage, adoration for MLK, Jr., stance against the Southern Democrats of Delaware, his wifes death, and his sons death).

The pandemic.

George Floyd and a reckoning on race.

The endemic racism of America (dead black men, all black people having to be 10 times better than anyone else to get a fair shot, the countrys dislike of patriotic blacks).

His commitment to ending racism.

His sons death.

George Floyd, black men being killed, white supremacy, and systemic racism.

The government pouring money into black communities.

The government removing lead pipes.

The government delivering high-speed internet.

The government giving blacks 100 times more opportunities for blacks (jobs, loans, health insurance, prescription drugs, affordable housing).

His walk[ing] the picket line for unions.

His violating a Supreme Court ruling to erase student loan debt.

His investments in black colleges.

His policies sending money to blacks.

His support for peaceful, non-violent protest.

All the blacks in his administration.

The equivalence of Israel and PalestiniansIsraelis died but now Palestinians are dying.

His call for a ceasefire after which the hostages should be returned.

His work to bring peace to the Middle East.

The fact that extremists are coming for the graduates freedom.

The fact that people waiting in line to vote in Georgia are denied water. (This is a blatant lie, according to left-leaning Politifact.)

Black election workers are being attacked.

The Insurrection, at which black police officers were called racial names.

White supremacy and extremists.

Book banning.

Blacks will lead us into the future.

Oblique attack on Harrison Butkers speech as toxic masculinity.

What it really means to be a man (respect, dignity, showing up, avoiding hate, resisting abuses of being, faith).

His certainty that the graduates will be doctors, researchers, artists, journalists, intellectuals, preachers, and politicians.

His diverse administration, including Ketanji Brown Jackson and Kamala Harris.

A final, brief exhortation to do something with their degrees, because theyre capable of building a democracy worthy of our dreams with a boundless future and a bigger, brighter future that proves the American Dream is big enough for everyone to succeed.

In brief, it was a typical Biden speech. A whole lot of self-aggrandizing and maudlin me, me, me stuff, blatant lies, and racial demagoguery. The only thing it left off was the line about puttin yall back in chains. However, in addition to what was there, something profound was missing: Aspiration.

Aside from a single throwaway line, Biden had nothing to say about the singular blessings of the graduates newly acquired knowledge and the diplomas that prove that knowledge. He could barely spare a sentence for the great opportunities that await them after their four years of presumably hard work. The speech was focused, instead, on the horrors of America.

I bet that when you graduated from middle school, high school, college, or graduate school, the speech was about opportunity and the future. It promised you that if you applied your talents and worked hard, youd succeed. Bidens speech painted a dark, practically post-apocalyptic America in which the graduates will die...unless the government saves them.

Although Biden threw Jesuss name around a bit, what Biden offered was a very different type of religious exhortation: It was the statement that America is a hellscape and that the government is those graduates only salvation. This was a speech that was simultaneously blasphemous and deeply, deeply un-American.

Since its founding, America has been premised on the idea that when people are unleashed, they are unstoppable. For a long time, Americas shame was that African Americans were leashed, first through chattel slavery and then through officially sanctioned, open discrimination. Joe Biden has a new premise: The only way for African Americans to thrive is if they willingly put their heads in the government yoke. Otherwise, they must abandon all hope.

UPDATE: In his extraordinary speech in the Bronx, Donald Trump inserted exactly the kind of uplifting exhortation that graduates need to (and used to) hear at graduations, for he spoke directly to young people about success: hard work, finding one's passion, and never losing momentum. This was the advice missing from the dour speech Biden gave about an unforgiving world and the government safety net.

Image: YouTube screen grab (edited).
The Quesnel, British Columbia city council's censorious response to the revealing, well researched, and well documented book, Grave Error: How the Media Misled Us And the Truth About Residential Schools (editors Tom Flanagan and Chris Champion, 2023) is, sadly enough, more grist for the woke mill. Cancel culture is running amok throughout the West and Quesnel (Pronounced Quinn-L) is merely its microcosm.

The book is a collection of essays by academics, journalists, and others debunking claims that First Nations children went missing (victims of foul play by staff) while attending Canada's former -- often church-run -- Indian Residential Schools and/or were buried in unmarked graves on the property of those schools, which existed in the late 19th and much of the 20th century, with the last one being shuttered in the 1970s. For the record, none of these alleged unmarked graves have been discovered, nor have there been any missing children, although some, to quote Tom Flanagan, one of the book's editors, "may have been forgotten by their relatives."

Nevertheless, fireworks flew when Pat Morton, wife of Quesnel mayor, Tony Paull, read Grave Error, liked it, and purchased ten copies for those she thought would be interested. One of the recipients was the mother of a Metis (mixed French and First Nations ancestry) city councilor, Tony Goulet. He, along with the local Lhtako Dene Nation, attended the March 19th council meeting to accuse Morton and the book of "hate" and "denialism." Other First Nations groups subsequently piled on. As is typical these days, all council members, including Mayor Paull, voted to denounce the book, although Paull, to his credit, has, at least to date, not caved to demands he resign as mayor. And to once more quote Tom Flanagan: "[y]ou would think city council would have better things to do than to tell citizens what not to read."

Censorship attempts pose several problems. If someone reads a book and disapproves of it for whatever reason, he might demand that it be removed from the shelves. But here you have an individual elevating himself above the masses. It's apparently okay for him to read the book, but not okay for anyone else. What gives him the right to assume that? Is he somehow superior? Why should he deny others something he can freely access?

Other would-be censors have never read the book and rely on hearsay. Not a good idea. If they have never read the book, they have no accurate idea what is in it and are not qualified to pass judgment. They certainly have no right to demand that it be censored.

Additionally, censoring speech, whether verbal or written, is wrong because it deprives us of our most basic freedom. Wiser souls than I have maintained that if we lose all our freedoms except free speech, we still have a chance to employ argument to win them back. But without freedom of speech, we lose our means of peacefully defending and reinstating all of these additional freedoms.

Finally, there are literally millions of books, magazines, periodicals, newspapers, etc. in circulation. We only have a limited amount of time to read them all. If something appears interesting and enjoyable, and you have the time, by all means read it. If something appears uninteresting or upsetting, the solution is simple. Don't read it (or read it, dissect it, and construct a counterargument). Time might be better spent with something more enjoyable or interesting. Bottom line: leave the rest of us alone.

Image: True North and Dorchester Books
North East ISD notified 5,000 current and former employees of a possible data breach caused by a cyberattack in August. Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images Geekdom Community Coordinator Briana Rodriguez, left, talks with a attendee of the opening of the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News A large Geekdom sign on a window is seen from the outside of the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. The new third floor space will serve as headquarters for the start up and co-working space with a coffee bar, community space, dedicated desks for members and teams, and podcast studio. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Amzi Austin works on his laptop at the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Sonya Rosario, left, and Sergio Palacios, right, connect at the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Dedicated desk area is shown in the new Geekdom space in the Rand Building on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

A new cybersecurity school that's set up shop in San Antonio is promising paid training, job placement and continuing education for those seeking a career in the quick-growing field.

NukuDo, a Delaware-based cybersecurity training firm, launched its San Antonio-based U.S. headquarters inside the Geekdom coworking space downtown. NukuDo is the U.S. affiliate of Red Alpha, a cybersecurity school operating in Singapore.

The schools model differs from job training programs such as for-profit computer coding boot camps or city-subsidized workforce development. Instead of paying out of pocket or using public funds, students get paid $4,000 a month by the company during their training with the agreement that theyll work where the company places them for three years upon completion of their coursework.

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We commercialized the assessment, the selection process, and we said Okay, we will put our money where our mouth is and we open it completely to the public, said Dean Gefen, CEO of NukuDo and Red Alpha, who moved his family to San Antonio from Singapore as the company gets going. Whoever passes our selection test, we hire them, we train them at our own expense then we place them in an organization  this is our model.

The concept struck Michael Blair, who became involved with NukuDo while he was working at the regional economic development corporation Greater:SATX, which was trying to bring the company to the region.

He said he knows San Antonio's tech community was stung by the sudden collapse in December of Codeup, a computer coding bootcamp, that left 112 students out tens of thousands of dollars and 21 staffers out of work.

But NukuDo's leaders say their model and the cybersecurity industry is different.

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Private sector solution

I used to work recruiting companies to San Antonio all day before I recruited a company that really wanted me to come work for them, said Blair, who left Greater:SATX in March to become NukuDos managing director in San Antonio.

He said no public funds were used in the deal to attract the company.

Were 100% a private sector solution to a private sector problem, Blair said.

While the model doesn't put the cost on students on the front end, the three-year work period could impact their earnings in the short term. But, Blair said, the trainees walk away trained, certified, experienced and with a network of classmates to reach out to.

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The experience, he said, "is going to take them from, say, making the $66,000 they're going to make while they're with us a year to now, when they probably are making $150,000 plus, just because that's what the industry would demand for a commercial person who has that level of skill set and expertise."

The cybersecurity industry is growing as new technologies and new threats develop, but the rate of growth is slowing and some companies have seen cutbacks, according to an annual report from ISC2, a cybersecurity trade organization. Artificial intelligence has brought some uncertainty to the business but the demand for the skills remains. According to ISC2, there is a workforce gap of about 4 million cybersecurity specialists worldwide.

In the U.S., more than 500,000 cybersecurity positions are unfilled across the country, according to the White House. San Antonio and Texas leaders have been working to make the city a leader in cybersecurity.

Beat NY, Tampa

NukuDo began accepting applications in February and school officials selected 15 who applied for the first cohort that began training in March.

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The full-time bootcamp-style program lasts between four and six months. The curriculum is comprised of 80% hands-on and problem-solving skills work, with one trainer for every six students. Graduates earn industry certifications.

We believe so much in these individuals that we're willing to invest in them to do nothing else but learn for essentially six months and to get them certified, Blair said. So it's not just NukuDo saying, Hey, this is a qualified person. It's literally the industry by its own standard saying this is a qualified person.

NukuDo said it places its grads at companies where they gain work experience for at least three years. During that period, they remain NukuDo employees.

After the three-year term is complete, the school plans to stay in touch with its graduates through twice yearly continuing education training.

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Blair said the company aims to train 300 students in San Antonio within three years and 1,000 across the U.S. in five years.

San Antonio beat out New York city and Tampa, Florida, in the competition for the company's HQ, according to Jenna Saucedo-Herrera, president of Greater:SATX.

With NukuDO joining our community, we are poised to demonstrate our unparalleled support for cyber firms seeking to expand and flourish, she said in a statement Thursday.

Applications for upcoming cohorts are open on the companys website.
Those in the mainstream media are willing whores for the Biden administrationand other leftists/progressives/Marxists. They dutifully cover for the doddering old American Pharaoh. They are utterly shameless when it comes to deciding which stories they will cover and which they will hide, and how they will cover or hide them.

They are eager to find out who Trumps pick for vice-president is going to be, so they can start savaging him or her with all due haste. Which gives me an idea: perhaps Trump could stun themand maybe even win the electionwere he to pick a transgender for his running mate. One with they as a preferred pronoun. (In that case, if someone asks, how are they doing? it could refer to either the president and vice-president together as a ticket or just to the vice-president theyself!)

Incredibly, the Biden administration expressed Official Condolences to Iran upon the recent death of its president, Ebrahim Raisi, a.k.a. The Butcher of Tehran. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated, The United States expresses its official condolences for the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, and other members of their delegation in a helicopter crash in northwest Iran. He added, We regret any loss of life. We dont want to see anyone die in a helicopter crash. (Except for maybe Trump and his supporters.) Raisi was responsible for tens of thousands of deaths. One wonders if, had the Biden administration been in power during previous eras, it would have offered official condolences to Germany after Hitlers death, or to Cambodia after the demise of Pol Pot. Sure, he was a ruthless dictator who killed a million and a half or so of his nations residents, or about 25% of its population, but his death was tragic nonetheless, no?

Meanwhile, in New York, the U.N.a.k.a. that wretched hive of scum and villainyobserved a moment of silence for the departed Iranian mass murderer. Which it didnt do after more than 1,200 innocent Israelis were raped, tortured, and slaughtered on October 7th. Well, at least they didnt die in a helicopter crash. A moment of silence? In the U.N.? If one member of that organization had texted thoughts and prayers or sorry for your loss to the remaining Iranian regime it would have been too much. That said, it is the U.N. were talking about, the same body that recently appointed Iran to chair a 2-day meeting on human rights.

If the mainstream media reported, probably gleefully, that God is dead, some in the august body would probably mutter, meh, and no moment of silence would be held. Indeed, there might be mild rejoicing. If, however, the report was, Satan is dead, a few tears might be shed during the long moment of silence.

If America is to become truly great again, Americans need to make the mainstream media irrelevant, boot Biden out of office, defund the U.N.and send it, too, packing.

Perhaps to Iran.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
Yesterday, Donald Trump had an epic rally in the Bronx, a mainly-minority Democrat enclave in New York. Not only was the attendance off the charts, but it also rattled New Yorks Democrat establishment. We know that because NYs Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul lost control of herself and called Trump supporters clowns.

The Bronx is one of New York Citys five boroughs. As of 2021, it was only 14.3% white. Mostly, the Bronx is Hispanic (56.4%) and black (33.8%), along with a handful of Asians. This visualizes the Bronx population:

Image by Noahnmf. CC BY-SDA 4.0.

The Bronx has long been an unabashedly Democrat stronghold. In 1980, even as New York state broke with its long Democrat-voting history and went all in for Ronald Reagan, the Bronx supported Jimmy Carter (64%). The same thing happened in 1984, as New York again voted for Reagan and the Bronx backed Mondale (66%).

The Bronxs Democrat loyalty has continued unabated since then. In the list below, you can see how the intensity of support for Democrats hasnt just been stable but has grown over the decades:

In 1988, Michael Dukakis got 73.2% of Bronx votes

In 1992, Bill Clinton got 73.7% of Bronx votes

In 1996, Bill Clinton got 85.8% of Bronx votes

In 2000, Al Gore got 86.3% of Bronx votes

In 2004, John Kerry got 82.8% of Bronx votes (showing that even ardent Dems struggled with Kerry)

In 2008, Barack Obama got 88.7% of Bronx votes

In 2012, Barack Obama got 91.5% of Bronx votes

In 2016, Hillary Clinton got 88.5% of Bronx votes (because no one would ever beat Obama at his peak)

In 2020, Joe Biden got 83.3% of Bronx votes (a very respectable showing for a reanimated corpse)

There are two takeaways from those numbers. First, there isnt a snowballs chance in H-E-double toothpicks (as Radar OReilly used to say) that Trump or any other Republican can carry the Bronx in our lifetime. Second, its a complete waste of time for a Republican to campaign in the Bronx.

However, when youre Donald Trump and are trapped every day in a Manhattan courtroom during a kangaroo trial, you cant let the obvious limit you. Instead, even though youre the Republican candidate, you head out for a campaign appearance...in the Bronx. After all, Trump is a Queens native, so all of New York City is his stomping ground. Why shouldnt he show up in the Bronx?

The permit for the event anticipated 3,500 attendees. Instead, estimates put the attendance at between 25,000 and 35,000 attendees. I cant find the tweet right now, but at least disgruntled Democrats immediately pointed out that a lot of those attending the rally were white, meaning that it wasnt Bronx residents who were showing up.

Theres undoubtedly truth to that statement. But what has Democrats terrified is that, if one looks at the footage, the crowd wasnt only white. There was a sizable minority population there, meaning that Bronx residents (as well as minorities from elsewhere in New York) went to a Trump rally. These short videos highlight the fact that, contrary to what the drive-by media wishes were true, this was not a skillfully disguised Klan event:

Regime Media will never show you these images.



Awesome scene at Trump rally in South Bronx.pic.twitter.com/ycLwLqhlab  Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) May 23, 2024

SEE IT: Residents Shocked as Trump Campaigns in the Bronx, Gaining Support. WATCH pic.twitter.com/jFhfOVYijc  Simon Ateba (@simonateba) May 23, 2024

On the stage, Rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow (both convicted felons who served their time for their crimes) stood up before the crowd to endorse Trump:

WATCH: Rappers 'Sheff G' and 'Sleepy Hallow' endorse Trump at Bronx rally pic.twitter.com/WbRZrSdH4v  Breaking911 (@Breaking911) May 24, 2024

And quite movingly, Trump got not only an endorsement but an apology from Ruben Diaz Sr, a long-time Democrat New York politician:

Ruben Diaz Sr, a Democrat from New York City, endorses President Trump in the Bronx.



Huge diverse rally for Trump. pic.twitter.com/xOKCz2sH0P  Wise Philosophy (@Wise1Philosophy) May 24, 2024

The Daily Mail ran an entire article about why non-whites are flocking to the Trump banner in the Bronx.

Trumps huge Bronx rally is showing minorities that its no longer toxic to support Trump. Hes a winner, and everyone likes a winner. So, while I sincerely doubt that hell win in the Bronx (too many Democrats for him to overcome that bias), Trumps momentum is unmistakable.

No wonder, then, that Kathy Hochul is running scared. Shes so scared that she committed a true gaffethat is, as Michael Kinsley once explained, A gaffe is when a politician tells the truthsome obvious truth he isn't supposed to say. More than that, she committed a Hillary Clinton gaffe. As you recall, Hillary called everyone who didnt support her a deplorable.

In Hochuls world, those Americans who support Donald Trump are clowns. Hochuls moment of truth came when she appeared on CNN with Jake Tapper. Tapper noted that Trump was working to attract minorities, a loyal Democrat voting bloc. Given that the election is a politics of margins, he asked, What more do Democrats need to do to solidify and mobilize their base? Hochuls answer was heartfelt and ugly:

Gov. Kathy Hochul just called New Yorkers who support President Trump clowns.



Shame on Hochul.pic.twitter.com/7OZEDKfjyC  Paul A. Szypula  (@Bubblebathgirl) May 23, 2024

Well, Ill tell you, what wont make a difference at all, Jake, and that is for Donald Trump to be the ringleader and invite all his clowns to a place like the Bronx.

Add this contempt to the fact that Hochul believes the minority kids in the Bronx are so stupid that they dont even know what a computer is, and you can really see that Democrats loath the American people, no matter their color. For Democrats, they are widgets to be manipulated to gain votes. Thats all. And when those widgets rebel, they are deplorable clowns who must be destroyed.

Image: X screen grab.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez admitted the other day that the virtue of the so-called hush money trial is that it keeps Trump off the campaign trail. She slammed the fact that Trump would even contemplate making lemonade out of that lemon by campaigning in the Bronxher turf. That was fear speaking, and AOC was right to be afraid. Whats happening now in the Bronx is monumental. A crowd that was estimated to be a few thousand is currently in the tens of thousands and still growing.

Yesterday, when Ocasio-Cortez learned that Trump would be coming to her home turf, she tried to insult him by gloating about the trial hampering his ability to campaign:

AOC: "The man practically has the legal version of an ankle bracelet around him, and he can't leave the five boroughs because he always has to be in court."pic.twitter.com/fObaAzKazW  Daily Wire (@realDailyWire) May 22, 2024

The fear behind those words has become a reality today. Not only has Trump come to the Bronx, but the residents of the Bronx are welcoming him with open arms. I cant describe in words what these videos show. Theyre all short but you must watch them to understand that something magical is going on:

BREAKING: Local Bronx officials already estimate the crowd at Trump's rally to be between 25K - 30K. The number is growing exponentially. The capacity was 3,500



This is supposedly a Democrat stronghold 



pic.twitter.com/77yvxwFF2b  George (@BehizyTweets) May 23, 2024

Regime Media will never show you these images.



Awesome scene at Trump rally in South Bronx.pic.twitter.com/ycLwLqhlab  Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) May 23, 2024

BREAKING: Trump rally attracts tens of thousands of people in South Bronx, and the crowd is growing. WATCH pic.twitter.com/bURaEPuPW1  Simon Ateba (@simonateba) May 23, 2024

SEE IT: Residents Shocked as Trump Campaigns in the Bronx, Gaining Support. WATCH pic.twitter.com/jFhfOVYijc  Simon Ateba (@simonateba) May 23, 2024

Contrast this scene in the Bronxwhich is like something out of an old Hollywood moviewith Bidens recent appearance in New Hampshire:

BREAKING: Big Donald Trump just arrived to the Bronx in New York. This is legendary. pic.twitter.com/wZBijNjVx1  Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) May 23, 2024

Why is this happening? Why is the Bronx suddenly Trump territory? This woman articulates it well: The world was better under Trump, being both safer and more prosperous.

We can end up in WWIII with Biden and I think Trump is going to make America great again



I spoke to a registered Democrat at Trumps rally who shared, that although she doesnt like Trumps personality and he says things that anger her, people need to vote for him to save the pic.twitter.com/6QnZnPab80  Savanah Hernandez (@sav_says_) May 23, 2024

I had lunch today with the wonderful Duke Buckner (about whom Ill write more in a few days because I think he truly can beat Jim Clyburn), and he said that, in Clyburns South Carolina Sixth District, people have had it with Bidenflation, and with the way the Biden administration takes money from Americans and pours it into illegal aliens. Thats what is moving traditional Democrat voters away from Biden.

We who are deeply involved with politics tend to view American politics through a very dark glass. We see the corruption in D.C., the non-stop lawfare against Donald Trump, the bizarre sexual indoctrination of our children in failing public schools, the open border, and the administrations support for terrorist groups and nations, and we despair. Were right to be unhappy, but were forgetting something important: The American people.

The media drumbeat notwithstanding, the ordinary people are beginning to see the same thing. They, too, resent seeing a presidential candidate undermined through tyrannical power plays, they oppose having their children exposed to the insanity of a bazillion imaginary genders, they are appalled that their children can define those genders but cant read or do math, they are angered that we are experiencing a slow-mo invasion replete with freeloaders, criminals, and terrorists, they are horrified to see Bidenflation impoverish them, and they know that its morally wrong for America to support a terrorist group (Hamas) and a terrorist nation (Iran), both of which are dedicated to murdering Jews, women, gays, Christians, Hindus, and Americans.

The media cant hide these things anymore or paint them in pretty colors. Increasing numbers of Americans see whats happening, and they hate it. So, when Donald Trump is shackled in Manhattan, the ordinary, normal, and truly good Americans will come to the Bronx to cheer him on.

Something profound is happening here. This is bigger and deeper than Trumps unexpected victory in 2016. The sleeping American giant may finally be waking up.

One of the most important things in politics is momentum. Once it builds, its very hard to stop. Biden is stagnant, while Trump is the most exciting game around. No matter what happens in that New York courtroom, Trump has the mojo. If he walks out a free man, hes a winner. And (God forbid), if he walks out a convicted felon on a still unidentified, totally bogus charge, hes also a winner because the American people have finally woken up.

Image: X screen grab.
It's always hilarious when the truth everyone already suspects gets out, and New Hampshire's RINO governor, Chris Sununu, couldn't keep from telling it.

According to PJMedia's Stephen Green, Sununu spoke to Republicans at a Reagan Institute event, saying:

"Almost all the governors get along," [Sununu] continued. "In my eight years [as governor] I can honestly tell you there's only been two, maybe a third, but two real governors that really nobody likes, nobody cares for at all." "Would you say who they are?" the interviewer asked. "Do you really want me to? Yeah! [New York Gov.] Andrew Cuomo," Sununu said with a knowing shake of his head, "complete jacka**. No one likes him." But Cuomo is a disgraced former governor. C'mon, Gov. Sununu, give us the real dirt. "And I gotta be honest, no one cares for [Calif. Gov.] Gavin [Newsom]. Gavin's just a pr**k," Sununu admitted to laughs and cheers from the Republican audience. "It's really disappointing. I got along with him, all of us [governors], got along with him for a while. But even Democrats  they won't tell you out loud  but behind closed doors, they're like, 'Oh, God, look who's coming.' And they all roll their eyes."

Which isn't surprising. Most of us have been grossed out by the smarmy, self-important, insufferable, arrogant, know-it-all governor who is wrong on every issue, whose state ranks dead last in educational achievement, whose state taxes are the nation's highest, whose propensity to lose money, from homeless funds to COVID funds is legendary, whose high-speed rail project is the Water World of government spending, whose reparations, illegal immigrant benefits, green mandates, and other schemes have made life in his state a living hell, and whose state budget has been blown out to the tune of tens of billions while other governors make their books balance.

All this, while declaring his state the wave of the future, even as other states take in his state's refugees like the Carpathia rescuing the Titanic survivors in lifeboats, and never mind that other states have plans of their own for what the wave of the future is.

Now we learn that he's as insufferable in private as he is in public. Surprise, surprise.

It is perfectly true that governors work well together as a brotherhood and sisterhood of sorts. Sarah Palin, who was then governor of Alaska, once told me this directly, and she actually led the governors association at the time and other governors said she was quite popular. I've heard similar in conversations with Hawaii's Linda Lingle and California's Pete Wilson.

It makes sense. States need to coordinate and cooperate around things like natural disasters -- floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, volcano problems, mudslides, drought, and wildfires. They need to have goodwill with one another in order to share water fairly, or to ensure that one state is not polluting another. Governors also work well together coordinating trade relations, putting each state's best competitive advantages forward, sometimes as regions to investors in order to create jobs at home, each state getting a piece of the pie.

When they work together, they can also lobby Washington D.C. more effectively in getting whatever it is they want, whether funding, or policy changes.

Newsom has never done anything like that, he just slicks his hair, grandstands in other states even as his own falls apart, and touts his state and himself as the only state worth paying attention to.

Worse still, the press laps it up, feeding the narrative that this boob is presidential material, which has got to cheese off the others.

The other governors keep chugging along, though, some good, some not so good, but none of them insisting that everyone do what they do, because 'progress.'

No wonder they can't stand Newsom. Not even the governor of Oregon can stand him, nor New York, nor Massachusetts, nor Illinois, any of the other choice blue states. As Sununu says, they roll their eyes.

What a gross guy.

When not even Democrats can stand a certain leftist, it's got to be bad. Good luck with that Democrat nomination for president, Gav.

Image: Caricature by DonkeyHotey, via Flickr // CC BY-SA 2.0
(Image source from: M9.news)

Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy gets a Huge Relief:- On Thursday, the Andhra Pradesh High Court granted conditional anticipatory bail to Macherla MLA Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy, TDP and YSRCP candidates for Tadipatri Assembly constituency JC Asmith Reddy and Kethireddy Pedda Reddy, YSRCP nominee for Narasaraopet Assembly constituency Gopireddy Srinivas Reddy, and TDP pick for Denduluru Assembly constituency Chintamaneni Prabhakar. The court has ordered officials not to take any action against these candidates until June 6th. All candidates had filed anticipatory bail petitions in the High Court. The police department was directed to provide full details in all the anticipatory bail petitions filed by the candidates. Justice Pratapa Venkata Jyothirmai instructed the candidates to avoid staying in the constituencies where they have contested the elections until the counting is concluded. Furthermore, they were instructed not to move with more than four people and not to engage in any unlawful activity.

The petitioners must be constantly monitored by authorities, with a further hearing scheduled for June 6th. During the hearing, Niranjan Reddy, the advocate for Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy, argued that the sections under which the case was filed were bailable. As per the guidelines issued by the Supreme Court in Arnesh Kumar's case, notices must be served to the accused under Section 41A in cases where punishment is less than seven years of imprisonment. The petitioner's counsel also cited the ECI's statement that Pinnelli would be arrested wherever he might be. They argued that the poll panel was acting as if it were above the Supreme Court, which is unprecedented. The petitioner's counsel urged the court to provide security to the MLA from arrest, stating that eight police teams from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana were on the lookout for Pinnelli and his family members. If the candidate is arrested, he will not be able to appoint his agents on counting day and will suffer a loss. The counsel of other petitioners made similar arguments.

If anticipatory bail is granted without any conditions, there is a possibility that similar incidents of violence, like the ones that occurred on May 13, might happen again. Therefore, it is important to set certain conditions and hold the petitioners accountable for any such incidents. The High Court considered both sides of the argument and decided to grant conditional anticipatory bail to the petitioners. The case hearing has been adjourned to June 6. Justice Pratapa Venkata Jyothirmai has directed the petitioners not to attempt, influence the witnesses or involve in the cases that are registered against Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy.

(Video Source: TV9 Telugu Live)
Samsung is rolling out new software updates to the Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S24 series, or at least the Ultra models. This is the second May update for the devices. The latest release seems to fix some bugs and system stability issues, including an annoying video issue in the camera. It should be available globally in the coming days.

Galaxy S24 Ultra and S23 Ultra get a second May update

The Galaxy S24 series was the first to get Samsungs May update. The Galaxy S23 series followed a week or so later. Those updates were expected to address some system bugs, including battery drain issues, on the devices. However, the company pushed nothing more than the 55 security fixes part of its May SMR (Security Maintenance Release).

Thankfully, it has quickly released another update to fix some of the known issues. As of this writing, the new update is available for the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Galaxy S23 Ultra in Thailand. The updated firmware build numbers for the phones are S928BXXU2AXE4 and S918BXXU5CXE1, respectively. The OTA (over the air) packages weigh around 430MB for both models.

According to user reports on X and other online platforms, the latest update fixes a video rattling issue. Affected devices make a weird sound when the phone is moved quickly to focus on a different subject while recording videos. Several users have been experiencing this problem. Samsung seems to have addressed the issue on both Ultra models with this update.

Since the update has just landed, one cannot tell if the company has also addressed the battery drain problem. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has had this issue since the One UI 6.1 update while the Galaxy S24 Ultra picked it up in April. We will have to wait a few days to confirm if Samsung has looked into it. The updates may reach users in other regions soon.

The new flagships may get a bigger update next month

A bigger update may be on the cards for the Galaxy S24 series next month. Samsung is expected to address various camera issues with it. The new flagships have excellent cameras but still arent perfect. In some areas of photography, they even appear to lag behind their Galaxy S23 counterparts. Samsung certainly cannot let this happen and is at work to set it right. It remains to be seen if the June update finally unlocks the true potential of Galaxy S24 cameras.
Lenovo plans to launch a slidable Android tablet next year, multiple sources have confirmed. The tablet will feature a 13-inch Samsung-made slidable display that can stretch to 17 inches when pulled out. The Korean firm first demonstrated this display tech in 2022.

Lenovo is readying a slidable tablet with a Samsung display

Samsung is one of the worlds leading display manufacturers. It makes all kinds of display products, from tiny screens for smartwatches to massive OLED TVs and digital signage. The company also has expertise in foldable and slidable display tech. Over the past few years, it has demoed various kinds of futuristic display solutions.

One of Samsungs slidable display solutions may soon turn into a real product thanks to Lenovo. According to Patently Apple, which received the information from the Korean publication ETNews, the product will be a tablet and laptop hybrid. In its normal state, the device will have a 13-inch display and function like a tablet. But you can pull out the display to get a 17-inch screen and use the device like a laptop.

Interestingly, noted tipster Ross Young, who has over 25 years of experience in the display industry, says the device will feature an 18.1-inch screen. It is unclear whether this means it will come in two different sizes or one of the sources has inaccurate information. Or maybe Lenovo has yet to finalize everything. After all, the tablet isnt coming anytime soon. It is still a year away.

In an X post, Ross said he can confirm the existence of this slidable tablet in Lenovos pipeline, adding that the company plans to launch the device in the second quarter of 2025, i.e., between April and June. A precise launch timeline may surface in the coming months. We also expect to learn more about the tablet later this year. Rumors say it may support stylus input like Samsungs flagship tablets.

Samsung may also launch a similar product in the coming years

Samsung is also long rumored to be working on a slidable tablet and laptop hybrid. Not much has materialized yet but the Korean firm may have a similar product to Lenovos upcoming tablet in the pipeline. It may arrive in the coming years. The next major launch from Samsung will be the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 foldables in July. The new foldables are rumored to debut on July 10, followed by a market release later that month.
Microsoft is accused of copying the ChatGPT apps UI for its new Copilot app for Windows 11. The company recently took the stage at the Build 2024 event to showcase AI features and multiple changes coming to its apps including the revamped Copilot app for Windows 11. However, Windows Insiders who tested the revamped Copilot app reportedly found several similarities with the ChatGPT app, especially the UI part of it.

Microsoft accused of using ChatGPT-inspired design for its revamped Copilot app for Windows 11

According to Windows Latest, there are many similarities between the ChatGPT app and the new Copilot app. This includes a side menu on the left with a chat history which is also visible in the ChatGPT app. Colors aside, much of the Copilot apps UI gives a similar vibe to the ChatGPT app.

That said, one cant entirely blame Microsoft for using a ChatGPT-inspired layout for its Copilot app for Windows 11. While the exact reason behind this is unknown, one possibility is there. Onboarding an existing and popular app UI in the market could help users get familiar with the new app. However, it wouldnt be wrong to say that the tech giant could have done better with the design.

There are a few UI changes exclusive to the revamped Copilot app, though

It is worth noting that a few UI changes are exclusive to the revamped Copilot app for Windows 11. If you have used the ChatGPT app before, you might have noticed the accounts label at the bottom left corner. However, Microsoft seemingly tweaked the design a little bit for this part.

The account label in the dedicated Copilot app is placed at the top right corner of the apps interface. Whereas, the bottom left corner has Notebooks and Plugins options. Since the app is still in the testing phase, it is possible that Microsoft could add an exclusive touch to the Copilot app before the public release.

Apart from UI changes, the revamped Copliot app for Windows 11 is now fully dockable and doesnt just stick to the side of your desktop. This also means you can easily move and resize the apps window. Also, the icon of the Copilot app is now visible at the center of Windows 11s taskbar. Earlier, you could see the apps icon on the far right of the taskbar. Lastly, if you are eager to test the revamped Copilot app for Windows 11, sign up for the Windows Insiders program.
Annasofia Scheve covers trending news for the Express-News. She can be reached at Annasofia.Scheve@express-news.net.

Annasofia has bachelor's degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Missouri. She is an Ohio native, and wrote for Cincinnati Magazine and the Cincinnati Enquirer before joining the Express-News in 2023.
The Bank Holiday getaway has begun with some motorists, including actor Hugh Grant, stuck for up to five hours in an almost stationary traffic jam.

Grant, 63, encountered heavy traffic as he tried to pass the A3 near Tolworth, Greater London, on Friday afternoon.

At one point, he said he was stuck for four and a half hours so far and still not through it.

Earlier, posting on X, formerly Twitter, as he tried get some clarity on the delay, he asked Transport for London (TfL): Any chance of an update on the situation on the A3 near Tolworth? Now entering third hour of almost stationary traffic jam. And long red line still ahead. And no exits. Children in car.

Hugh Grant tweeted about traffic delays (James Manning/PA)

TfL responded: For safety, weve had to close two lanes of the A3 leading up to the Tolworth underpass due to emergency repair works. Unfortunately, severe delays are still present. We are monitoring the situation and note that traffic is moving, however slowly. We apologise for the delay.

During the jam, motorist Musawir Idrees posted an emoji showing his exasperation on X with the words: Stuck on A3 traffic for last five hours. Road works.

Screengrab taken from the social media site X posted by Hugh Grant, which has since been deleted (Hugh Grant/PA)

Earlier, National Highways had urged travellers, including those heading to the Chelsea Flower Show in London, to allow extra journey time as there had been approximately three miles of congestion.

They warned that lanes were closed on the A3 in London northbound between the A244 junction at Esher and the A309 junction at Chessington to assist with TfL works on the Tolworth Underpass.

Friday saw the start of the long weekend coincide with the beginning of half-term for many schools.

The RAC predicted more than 20 million leisure trips by car will be made between Friday and bank holiday Monday.

That would be the most for the late May bank holiday weekend since 2019.

An attempted theft of signalling cables brought disruption to a major rail line earlier on Friday as National Rail Enquiries said trains must run at reduced speeds between Birmingham New Street and Wolverhampton until damaged cables are repaired.

Some services are disrupted while we repair damaged cables between Birmingham and Wolverhampton Were working as quickly as possible to fix the issue Check @nationalrailenq @AvantiWestCoast @tfwrail @CrossCountryUK @WestMidRailway for the latest travel info  Birmingham New Street (@NetworkRailBHM) May 24, 2024

Meanwhile, a points failure also prevented trains from calling at stations between those locations.

The issues affected passengers travelling with Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, London Northwestern Railway, Transport for Wales and West Midlands Railway.

Many train services are also set to be affected this weekend as Network Rail carries out engineering projects.

Services on the West Coast Main Line will be reduced because of work around Crewe and Carlisle.

Trains are also set to be affected by track renewals between Carstairs and Lanark in Scotland, while there will be significant changes to services on the Great Eastern Main Line because of work building a new station at Beaulieu Park to the east of Chelmsford.

Network Rail says it often carries out major engineering work over bank holiday periods to reduce the number of passengers impacted.

Aviation analytics company Cirium said Friday looks set to be the busiest day of the year for UK airports since October 2019, with more than 3,150 departing flights.

A total of 8,486 flights are scheduled to depart between Saturday and Monday, equating to more than 1.5 million seats.

The most popular international destinations for UK departures are Dublin, Amsterdam, Palma, Alicante and Malaga.
The First Minister has been forced to abandon the formal announcement of a 5 million funding package for the Scottish islands due to bad weather.

John Swinney was due to make the announcement during a visit to Shetland on Friday but had to cancel because his scheduled flight could not land in cloudy conditions.

In a statement earlier this week, it was confirmed 1 million will go towards a new scheme to support the islands net zero 2040 goal, while a further 1 million will be invested in an Island Cost Emergency Fund to tackle poverty across Scotlands six island local authorities.

The remaining 3 million will support locally designed island infrastructure projects, which was going to be announced during the visit to Cope Shetland  the islands leading centre for community reuse and recycling.

First Minister John Swinney could not travel to Shetland on Friday (PA)

A Scottish Government spokesperson said on Friday: Due to the weather in Shetland, the plane carrying the First Minister was unable to land. He looks forward to visiting Shetland in the near future.

Ahead of the planned announcement, Mr Swinney had said: I have made it clear that I will be First Minister for everyone in Scotland  including our island communities who face a number of unique challenges but have enormous potential.

Islanders have been clear that more needs to be done to help them fulfil their ambitions and that is why we are developing a new national islands plan, to be published next year.

We will listen to island communities and speak with local authorities to ensure the new plan meets their needs.

In the meantime we will continue to invest in our islands programme, which over the last three financial years has distributed over 12 million to support 61 projects on 50 islands.
Boy, five, born without hand becomes worlds youngest to get bionic Hero Arm

A five-year-old boy who was born without a left hand has become the youngest in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm, making him feel like a superhero.

Jordan Marottas mother Ashley Marotta said the Iron Man-style arm was an instant confidence boost for her son and he had rushed back to his school to show his friends.

The custom-made, 3D printed prosthetic is produced by Bristol-based Open Bionics, which was founded in 2014 and launched four clinics in America in the last year.

Jordan, of Long Island, New York state, is now the youngest ever owner of one of the firms Hero Arms.

The prosthetic uses special sensors which detect muscular contractions and turn them into bionic hand movements.

Jordan Marotta, five, has become the youngest person in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

Most children with Hero Arms are aged seven years old or above, but the firm said Jordans size for his age and his high IQ  meaning he was easy to teach how to use the Hero Arm  meant he could have one sooner.

The previous youngest Hero Arm user was a six-year-old from Los Angeles.

Several children in the UK received a Hero Arm aged seven  including Louie Morgan-Kemp, of Swavesey, Cambridgeshire.

Jordans mother had been following Open Bionics on Facebook and contacted the firm when they opened a clinic in New York.

Jordan Marotta is able to grip his scooter with his new Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

The Hero Arm was paid for by insurance.

Clinical psychologist Ms Marotta, 38, said she was so grateful to Open Bionics.

Initially we were told he was too young and we convinced Open Bionics to see us and luckily he picked it up right away, she said.

As soon as we left with Jordans Hero Arm, he was running around with so much confidence trying to hail New York taxis.

It was an instant confidence boost; the Hero Arm really makes him feel like a superhero and he is superhero obsessed.

He then wanted to rush back to his school to show his teachers and friends.

Jordan Marotta could not wait to show his bionic arm to his schoolfriends (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

He was so happy and so excited and so was everyone at his school.

As a mum, you just want your child to be happy, and he is generally happy and resilient, but (after getting the Hero Arm) he was on top of the world and glowing.

He could not have been happier or more excited and hes the same today.

Its amazing.

Jordan had only used one different prosthetic before but stopped using it because of the lack of functionality.

Since getting his Hero Arm this week, he has been able to grab his scooter handles and go for a ride.

The prosthetic uses special sensors which detect muscular contractions and turns them into bionic hand movements (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

He is so excited to use it and to be able to control the fingers and grab two objects now, said mother-of-three Ms Marotta.

Were excited to see him get used to reaching with two hands and playing with his superhero toys with two hands.

She said that she and Jordans father Josh, 42, who works in the family business, a dental laboratory, were blessed and the Hero Arm was covered by our insurance.

Daniel Green, the clinician who delivered the Hero Arm and training to Jordan at Open Bionics in New York, said it was a pleasure to work with him and meet his family.

He said Jordan was very smart, had a great personality and was really excited about his Hero Arm and couldnt wait to show his friends.

Open Bionics is a British company delivering bionic hands and partial hand prosthetics globally for amputees.

Bristol-based Open Bionics makes the Hero Arm and Jordan received his at the firms clinic in New York (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

It describes itself as the only company in the world making multi-articulating hands small and light enough for children as young as Jordan.

It is also the only company in the world able to produce bionic arms from the Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney universes thanks to a long-term collaboration with The Walt Disney Company.

The firm has fitted amputees with Hero Arms in Ukraine, Germany, and Australia.

Samantha Payne, co-founder at Open Bionics, said: Were so happy for Jordan and cant wait to see how he puts his new Iron Man arm to work.
Coventry Building Society has finalised its 780 million deal to buy rival lender the Co-operative Bank, and confirmed it will not be giving its members a vote.

The tie-up will create a banking giant with millions of customers and about 89 billion worth of assets.

It means Co-op Bank will return to a mutual structure, meaning it is owned by individual members rather than shareholders and investors like most UK banks.

Co-op Bank was part of the wider Co-op Group more than 10 years ago, before splintering off when it fell into deep financial difficulty.

Coventry Building Society has confirmed it will be buying rival lender Co-op Bank (Alamy/PA)

It was rescued by American hedge funds and is currently owned by a group of private equity investors.

Fully joining up the two businesses is set to take several years, and there will inevitably be change over time, the pair said.

Both brands will stay on the high street during that period, but they eventually want Co-op Bank customers to become Coventry society members.

Coventry said it will benefit from having more customers, mortgage and savings balances, a wider set of finance products including current accounts, and more branches spread across the country.

The building society confirmed on Friday that it considered carefully whether to give its members the chance to vote over the acquisition, but had conclusively determined that it was not required.

In coming to this decision, the CBS (Coventry Building Society) board has been informed by member surveys and focus groups which clearly signalled their priorities as maintaining our value proposition and service quality, the business said.

Nick Slape, Co-op Banks chief executive, said the deal was a natural next step and presents an exciting opportunity.

Its chairman, Bob Dench, said: I am very proud of all those who have worked so hard over so many years to rebuild the bank. I am sure the Coventry Building Society will prove to be a very good home for us.

Coventry manages about 50 billion worth of mortgages and 48 million worth of savings.

Co-op Bank has about 2.5 million retail and business customers, and 50 branches across the country, and is often known for having its own ethical policy, including how it limits climate change.

It is not the only mega-deal to grace the UKs banking sector this year.

Nationwide Building Society is set to take over Virgin Money in a deal worth about 2.9 billion, which would create Britains second-biggest savings and loans group.

Nationwide has faced some criticism for not giving its members a vote over the planned acquisition, with a petition amongst members gaining thousands of signatures since the deal was announced.

The member-owned organisation has stood by its decision to forge ahead without a vote, saying it is not required to do so under building society rules.
The DUP has announced that Jonathan Buckley will be its candidate in the Lagan Valley constituency at the General Election  the seat currently held by former party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson.

Mr Buckley is an MLA in the neighbouring Upper Bann constituency.

Making the announcement in Belfast, interim party leader Gavin Robinson described Mr Buckley as the next generation advocate for unionist voters in the area.

He also repeated the call for unionist unity in the election, stating there were several seats that presented opportunities for co-operation with other unionist leaders.

The DUPs Jonathan Buckley is currently an MLA for the Upper Bann constituency (Liam McBurney/PA)

Former party leader Donaldson has held the Lagan Valley seat for 27 years.

His lawyer announced this week that he would not be seeking re-election after he was charged with a number of historical sex offences, which he has indicated he will be contesting.

Mr Robinson said he knew there had been considerable interest in the Lagan Valley selection process as he confirmed that MLAs Emma Little-Pengelly and Paul Givan, who both represent the constituency at Stormont, would continue in their roles as deputy First Minister and Education Minister.

Announcing that Mr Buckley would run, he said: With recent changes in Lagan Valley boundaries, almost 7,000 who were formerly in his Upper Bann constituency have now moved to Lagan Valley.

Jonathan has strong links, including through family, to the Lisburn and wider Lagan Valley area.

Mr Buckley said: I am running in Lagan Valley because I am putting country first.

I am running in Lagan Valley to ensure pro-union voters can unite behind a candidate and ensure Lagan Valley has strong representation at Westminster.

The DUP is expected to face stiff competition in the constituency from Sorcha Eastwood from the cross-community Alliance Party. The Ulster Unionist Party is also running a high-profile candidate through its deputy leader Robbie Butler.

DUP interim leader Gavin Robinson repeated a call for unionist unity (Jonathan McCambridge/PA)

Mr Robinson rejected any suggestion of criticism that his party was running a candidate who does not represent Lagan Valley at Stormont.

He said: Let me say I am not parachuting anybody in.

Johnny, along with the 7,000 individuals that he represents in Upper Bann, have been moved outside of their choice through Boundary Commission changes.

All our constituencies are different and people recognise that.

So, if Johnny is a blow-in and any candidate in Lagan Valley would like to suggest he is, then they are dismissing the 7,000 that are walking with him.

They are in Lagan Valley together. He is standing with the people he represents today as their candidate for Westminster in Lagan Valley.

Mr Robinson said he believed that unionist unity was something which resonated strongly with voters.

However, other unionist parties in the region, the Ulster Unionists and the Traditional Unionist Voice, have said they are not interested in electoral pacts.

Mr Robinson sad: Whilst I will do what I can to respect and honour the wishes of the people we have the privilege of representing, if other parties cant see beyond themselves, if other parties cant bring themselves to set aside person for country, then that is a matter for them.

But that gives the people a choice and it is a choice I know in previous elections they have made strongly of their own view that if the parties cant do it then they can, they will plump for those that stand up and speak out for Northern Ireland positively and powerfully.

The party also announced that Belfast City councillor Tracy Kelly would be the candidate in the Belfast South and Mid Down constituency.

Mr Robinson also confirmed that all of the partys seven current MPs have been reselected.
Election campaign day two: Power moves as Labour and Tories fight it out on energy

Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak clashed on energy policy and the exodus of MPs announcing their departure from Parliament grew as campaigning for the July 4 General Election entered its second day.

Here are the key moments:

 Power moves

Mr Sunak touted the fall in the energy price cap announced by Ofgem on Friday as evidence that his economic plans are working, though Labour said that even with a year-on-year decrease it will still be up 400 on 2021.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir plugged his plans for a publicly owned Great British Energy company, promising it would bring bills down for good and invest in clean, British power.

The Conservatives said they would maintain the Ofgem cap to keep bills down and make price comparison services easier to use. They also said they would reach net zero without punishing families with extra costs.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer speaking to the media at the launch of Scottish Labours General Election campaign at City Facilities in Glasgow (Andrew Milligan/PA)

 PMs spark faded by vapes Bill going up in smoke

Rishi Sunak said he was disappointed that his flagship legislation banning young people from ever being able to legally smoke would not pass before Parliament shuts down on Friday.

The shelving of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, as well as his admission that deportation flights to Rwanda would not take off before polling day, leaves the Tory leaders legacy increasingly threadbare.

Critics were quick to note that he has only one person to blame for cutting short the parliamentary timetable by calling a summer election.

 Islington North headache for Labour

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn will stand in his long-held seat of Islington North (Victoria Jones/PA)

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn announced he is standing as an Independent candidate in the General Election, posing a threat to his old partys prospects in his long-held Islington North seat.

The veteran MP was promptly booted out of the Labour Party. Sir Keir Starmer defended his decision to block his predecessor from standing for Labour after he failed to apologise for his handling of antisemitism within the party.

 PMs visit to Titanic Quarter invites sinking ship comparisons

Mr Sunaks trip to Belfasts Titanic Quarter saw some unfortunate parallels get drawn with his partys fortunes.

The Tory leader insisted he is pumped up and enjoying himself on campaign day two when a Belfast Live reporter asked him: Are you captaining a sinking ship going into this election?

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak arrives at Birmingham Airport, while on the General Election campaign trail (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

 Picture of the day

(Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak talks to journalists on his plane as he travels from Northern Ireland to Birmingham.

 Social media moment of the day

Not coming to a debate near you. https://t.co/Uvg1WPAyea  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) May 24, 2024

The Prime Minister encountered the dangers of online fact checkers when he shared a claim about Sir Keir on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Repeating his claim that Sir Keir would be ducking TV debates during the campaign, Mr Sunak posted imagery of the Labour leader with the caption: Not coming to a debate near you.

Beneath the post appeared a Community Note  a feature that allows users to add context to potentially misleading content  which read: Starmer says he will agree to two debates. To say debates are not coming, is not correct.

 MPs leave in their droves

As of Friday, nearly 80 Conservative MPs have stepped down ahead of the General Election, a post-war record.

(PA Graphics)

The total not seeking re-election on July 4 hit 76 on Friday, surpassing the previous record of 72 who quit prior to Sir Tony Blairs 1997 landslide win for Labour.

It is not entirely the Conservatives though  grandees including Harriet Harman, Dame Margaret Beckett and Sir Ben Bradshaw have all said they will not fight their seats.

 PMs tour finale derailed by pro-Palestine crowds

The final stop of Mr Sunaks two-day tour of the UK was temporarily derailed when pro-Gaza protesters picketed the surrounding area.

A crowd of demonstrators carried placards and Palestinian flags outside the venue in Staffordshire, where the Prime Minister insisted on continuing with his visit despite the commotion.

 Quote of day

 Whats happening tomorrow?

Sir Keir will be taking his campaign to the Midlands while Mr Sunak, having completed his whistlestop tour of the four nations, will be in the North of England.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey eats ice cream on the promenade in Eastbourne, East Sussex, while on the General Election campaign trail (Aaron Chown/PA)

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey will continue his trail in the so-called blue-wall, traditionally Conservative areas of southern England.
A 17th person has been arrested after a pro-Palestine sit-in at one of Oxford Universitys office buildings.

Thames Valley Police said 16 people were arrested on Thursday on suspicion of aggravated trespass, including one person who was also arrested on suspicion of common assault.

The force said it came after officers, who were alerted to reports that protesters had gained access to a private office within one of the buildings, attended Wellington Square at Oxford University on Thursday at around 8am.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Oxford Action for Palestine (OA4P) later claimed that Oxford students were arrested during a peaceful sit in at admin offices and the building was placed in lockdown.

On Friday, police confirmed a 17th person had been arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass and affray.

The 16 people arrested on Thursday have also been further arrested on suspicion of affray.

All 17 have been released on conditional bail.

It comes as student encampments against the war in Gaza have been set up in recent weeks at more than a dozen universities across the UK, including Cambridge and Oxford.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Oxford University said that OA4P had escalated their protest actions from mainly peaceful to direct action tactics.

It said the protest had caused significant distress for members of reception staff and the wider staff community.

The university said it was not a peaceful sit-in, but a violent action that included forcibly overpowering the receptionist, and then entry into the vice-chancellors office while she was on a call, shouting and starting to barricade the doors.

The Oxford University statement added: It is clear that the actions of some of the protesters involved in the encampment have created a deeply intimidating environment for many members of our community, including our Jewish students and staff and members of the local Jewish community.

It is imperative that the university feels safe for all our members, and the actions of some of the protesters have undermined those foundational principles of dignity, care and respect which we must all maintain.
The Government has done some decent stuff in Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris has said.

The Northern Ireland Secretary, who is not seeking re-election at the General Election, said he would leave it to other people to mark his homework over his time in the region.

He was speaking in Belfasts Titanic Quarter during a visit by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as campaigning for the election continues.

Asked to assess his time in Northern Ireland, Mr Heaton-Harris said: I will let other people mark my homework.

He added: I have been privileged to be the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, privileged the Prime Minister reappointed me to this role.

A lot has happened in that time.

The Prime Minister negotiated the Windsor Framework which solved a lot of the problems with the Northern Ireland Protocol.

We together did the Command Paper that got Stormont up and running.

So, I think we have done some decent stuff.

Mr Heaton-Harris said: Id like to thank the Prime Minister for all the support and the flexibility you have allowed me to get some of this stuff over the line.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak with Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris during his visit to the maritime technology centre at Artemis Technology in Belfast (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

He was first appointed as Northern Ireland Secretary by former prime minister Liz Truss in 2022 and was retained in the role by Mr Sunak.

Mr Heaton-Harris was heavily involved in efforts to negotiate an agreement to ease DUP concerns over post-Brexit trading arrangements, after the unionist party collapsed the Stormont executive in February 2022.

The DUP ended its two-year boycott of devolved government in Northern Ireland in February this year after its leadership struck a deal with the Government over measures to address the so-called Irish Sea trading border and sovereignty.

This led to the Government publishing its Safeguarding the Union Command Paper.
The chairwoman of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee has said an inquiry into British film and high-end television is deeply concerned about skills, working conditions, and the retention of staff in the industry.

In a letter to the Culture Secretary, Dame Caroline Dinenage, said the industry faces considerable uncertainty.

Dame Caroline said that investment boomed following the pandemic but fell dramatically last year leaving studios empty, crews out of work and cinemas questioning how to programme their screens.

We have heard that these challenges could have been mitigated if the UK had a stronger domestic, independent sector and was less reliant on inward production, she said.

We believe this warrants further investigation.

She continued: We are also deeply concerned about skills, working conditions, and the retention of staff in the industry.

More work is needed to get to grip with these issues, as a failure to do so now will harm our ability to attract and staff productions in the future.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called for a July 4 General Election on Wednesday and Dame Caroline said she hopes the next government will continue to champion and support all facets of our screen industries.

Given the huge value that film and HETV contributes, and the deep questions that remain about its resilience, we strongly urge our successor Committee to revisit the evidence we have received and continue scrutiny of this vital industry, she added.

After Parliament is dissolved on May 30, all committees will cease to exist until new ones are appointed by the new House of Commons.

The inquiry was launched in July 2023 and has investigated what needs to be done to maintain and enhance the UK as a global destination for production.
The King has prorogued Parliament for the first time during his reign for the General Election.

The formal ending of the current session paves the way for the monarch, who came to the throne in September 2022, to also make his debut in ordering a dissolution on May 30.

The royal proclamation discharges Parliament, at which point all seats in the House of Commons become vacant ahead of the July 4 poll.

After prorogation, Parliament will dissolve on Thursday 30 May. Dissolution is the term for the end of a parliament. All business comes to an end and neither House will meet again until after the general election. Find out more about prorogation  pic.twitter.com/70OWVPMV74  House of Lords (@UKHouseofLords) May 24, 2024

In line with convention, the prorogation announcement was read out on behalf of the King at a traditional ceremony in the House of Lords, which saw leading members of the upper chamber don the traditional scarlet robes and doff their cocked hats.

Elected members, led by Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, filed out of the Commons after their attendance in the upper chamber was requested by Black Rod Sarah Clarke, a senior Lords officer tasked with overseeing the proceedings.

The royal address, read out by the Lords Leader Lord True, set out legislation passed during the parliamentary session and other measures taken by the Government.

It follows the traditional wash-up period, which saw last-minute efforts to push laws through before the shutdown.

It included the Victims and Prisons Act which paves the way for the establishment of the independent Infected Blood Compensation Authority.

The body will compensate victims of the infected blood scandal who have lived with deadly viruses after receiving contaminated transfusions or products between the 1970s and early 1990s.

On Monday, the Infected Blood Inquiry published a 2,527-page report which found the scandal could largely have been avoided and that there was a pervasive cover-up to hide the truth.

Separately, the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Act will quash the convictions of hundreds of wronged subpostmasters, who fell victim to the IT scandal.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act will ban foreign states from owning UK newspapers and magazines, prompted by concern over the gulf state-backed takeover of the Telegraph.

Lord Privy Seal, and Leader of the House of Lords, Lord True (Aaron Chown/PA)

As each Act was read out, the clerk said in Norman French Le Roy le veult or The King wills it, to indicate royal approval.

But failing to make the final cut was Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks flagship Tobacco and Vapes Bill, designed to ban young people from ever being able to smoke tobacco legally.

The Renters Reform Bill, which was expected to pave the way for an end to section 21 no-fault evictions, was also axed.

The prorogation address to Parliament delivered on behalf of the King by Lord True also made reference to the Governments Rwanda deportation plan which aims to send asylum seekers who cross the Channel in small boats on a one-way flight to Kigali.

The legislation and a treaty with the east African country are intended to prevent further legal challenges to the stalled scheme after the Supreme Court ruled the plan was unlawful.

As well as compelling judges to regard Rwanda as safe, it would give ministers the power to ignore emergency injunctions.

However, Mr Sunak has now admitted flights would not take off before the General Election, prompting Labour scorn.

The King, in his speech read out by Lord True, said: My Government has taken measures to disrupt the business model of people smugglers and deter dangerous and illegal journeys to the United Kingdom.

Legislation has been delivered to underpin the partnership with Rwanda to tackle small boat crossings.

Following the election, the new Parliament is due to meet on July 9 for the election of the Commons Speaker and swearing in of newly-elected MPs.

The Kings Speech announcing the new Governments legislative programme for the parliamentary session is scheduled to take place on will take place on July 17.

While it was not the first time the King has prorogued Parliament  he did so last October  it is the first time he has done so for an election.

It will also be the first time he has approved a dissolution.
Ricardo Delgado covers the Hill Country for the San Antonio Express-News. He can be reached at ricardo.delgado@express-news.net.

He previously worked for The University Star at Texas State University.
A Labour government will keep energy prices down across the whole of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer vowed as he spoke about his partys goal to change Britain for the better.

On the campaign trail in Scotland ahead of the General Election on July 4, the Labour leader insisted his party can kick the Tories out of power at Downing Street.

He said Labour can bring about the change we desperately need, with plans to rebuild the economy and get it functioning, working for everyone.

Speaking as analysts warned energy regulator Ofgem could increase the price cap on bills in October, Sir Keir also spoke about Labours plans to establish a publicly-owned energy company.

Campaigning in the Glasgow East constituency on Friday, Sir Keir said the company would have its headquarters north of the border, bringing jobs in Scotland while keeping prices down across the whole country.

Labour only won one seat in Scotland at the last general election, but the party is currently enjoying rising support north of the border, with Sir Keir telling Scots they need to have a leading voice when it comes to polling day.

He hit out at the SNP, saying John Swinneys party only wants to use the election to send a message to Westminster.

Sir Keir said: Send a message? That is the height of the SNP ambition  to send a message, a protest, in Westminster.

Sir Keir Starmer, left, was joined by Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar on the campaign trail in Glasgow East on Friday (Andrew Milligan/PA)

I dont want Scotland to send a message, I want Scotland to send a government, a Labour government.

A Labour government that can stop the chaos and division, that can turn the page and rebuild Scotland and Britain. We need that change.

There is no change without Scotland, there is no Labour without Scotland, Scotland is central to the mission of the next Labour government.

He said 17 years of SNP rule at Holyrood and 14 years of Conservative leaders at Westminster has resulted in chaos and division feeding chaos and division.

He added there is a human cost to that, as he recalled previously meeting a seven-year-old girl at a foodbank in Scotland who told him she could not read.

Sir Keir said that youngster was paying for the failure under the SNP and the failure down in Westminster.

A young supporter awaits Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer for a campaign event in Glasgow (Andrew Milligan/PA)

But he told voters: Heres the good news, you dont have to put up with it any more, you can vote for change. Under our democracy the vote now is with you to vote for change.

Labour, he said, is now humbly asking for the opportunity to change Scotland and to change Britain for the better.

While he said some voters have shied away from backing Labour in the past because they felt the party could not win, he insisted it is now a changed Labour Party and has the opportunity to kick the Tories out.

He said: Theres a choice at this election, a choice between continuing with chaos and division and failure, or the choice of voting Labour and stopping the chaos and division that is doing so much harm.

Turning the page and bringing the change that we need here in Scotland and across Britain. Rebuilding across Scotland and across Britain.

Thats the choice at the next election.

However, the SNPs Alison Thewliss claimed Sir Keir and Labour had no vision beyond the status quo.

Sir Keir Starmer said Scotland will be central to the mission of the next Labour government (Andrew Milligan/PA)

She said: If an incoming Labour leaders priorities dont consist of scrapping cruel austerity-driven Tory policies, 9,250 tuition fees, and the unelected House of Lords, then what exactly are they for?

In reality, Sir Keir Starmers Labour Party are prioritising no change at all and are offering nothing to the people of Scotland beyond more of the same.

We have a rotten Tory Government that deserves to be booted out of office, but it is clear that Sir Keir Starmer has no vision beyond the status quo.

Ms Thewliss added: Thankfully though for Scottish people, there is an alternative to the Tories with the SNP, who wont just stand up for these values, but have put their money where their mouth is  scrapping tuition fees in Scotland and committing over a billion pounds to support families affected by the worst of the Tories austerity policies.

Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho also hit out at the Labour leader and said: Sir Keir Starmer stood in Scotland and hailed his cave-in to Angela Rayner and the unions 70 new French-style regulations that would ban flexible working, but failed to say anything about the 93,000 jobs in Scotland that would be lost as a result of Labours reckless pledge to shut down our oil and gas sector.

Labour have no plan to get bills down for families  instead they would take us back to square one by making voters pay more for net zero and hiking up taxes by 2,094 for every hardworking family.

Only Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives will stick to a clear plan and take bold action to secure our future energy security and protect British jobs.
Energy policy takes centre stage in the Tory and Labour election campaigns on Friday after Ofgem said the typical household energy bill will fall by 122 a year from July.

Heres what you need to know:

What changes did Ofgem announce?

Ofgem said on Friday morning that the average household energy bill will drop by 7% from July 1, when the latest change to the regulators price cap takes effect.

The typical households energy bill is set to fall from the current 1,690 a year to 1,568.

(PA Graphics)

How did the parties react to the Ofgem announcement?

Rishi Sunak said the fall in the energy price cap reported on Friday was evidence of his Governments success, saying it shows our plan is working and that the economy has turned a corner.

Labour meanwhile pointed out that though the cap will be around 500 less than it was in July last year, when it was 2,074, it will still be 400 more than in 2021.

What is the energy price cap?

The energy price cap was introduced by the Government in January 2019 and sets a maximum price that energy suppliers can charge consumers in England, Scotland and Wales for each kilowatt hour (kWh) of energy they use.

Ofgem sets its cap every three months as the average amount paid by the typical household.

(PA Graphics)

What is Labours energy pitch?

Sir Keir Starmer is using a visit to Scotland to promote his plan for a publicly owned green electricity generator, which he said would cut bills and boost energy security.

Campaigning in the Glasgow East constituency on Friday, Sir Keir said the company would have its headquarters north of the border, bringing jobs in Scotland while keeping prices down across the whole country.

Great British Energy will be owned by the taxpayer making money for the taxpayer, he told Sky News earlier.

He said that investing in clean British power would bring down energy bills for good and give the UK security so that Putin cant put his boot on our throats.

He said a Labour government would also make sure jobs in renewable energy stay in the UK.

Labour will set up Great British Energy, a publicly owned clean power company, to boost energy security and cut bills for good. This is one of our first steps towards mission-driven government. pic.twitter.com/dyJRDd5hwu  The Labour Party (@UKLabour) May 24, 2024

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho accused Labour of not being honest about the costs that their plans for net zero power would involve.

Ms Coutinho said Labours drive to decarbonise the electricity system by 2030 would take us back to square one by making voters pay more for net zero.

She said shifting away from North Sea oil and gas would put 200,000 jobs at risk.

What are the Conservatives proposing?

Ms Coutinho set out her own energy policies, including maintaining the Ofgem cap throughout the next parliament to help keep bills down.

We're taking bold action to cut energy bills and put fairness first as we get to net zero. Labour would take us back to square one by hiking up energy bills for your family. pic.twitter.com/QG65LhxkJ4  Conservatives (@Conservatives) May 24, 2024

Under the Tory proposals, price comparison services will be made easier to use and Ofgem could publish league tables showing how long energy firms take to respond to customer complaints.

Only the Conservatives have a clear plan for a secure future where we reach net zero without punishing families with extra costs, she said.

In response, a Labour spokesman said the Conservatives will never end the cost-of-living crisis  only Labour has a plan to cut bills and make Britain energy independent.
Lewis Hamilton raised the prospect of challenging at the sharp end of the grid for the Monaco Grand Prix after he finished second in practice.

Hamilton earlier put his Silver Arrows at the top of the order in the first session and later in the day ended up just 0.188 seconds behind Ferraris Charles Leclerc.

Fernando Alonso was third for Aston Martin  nearly half-a-second back and one place ahead of Red Bulls Max Verstappen  with Lando Norris fifth in his McLaren.

Hamilton has not won a race since the penultimate round of the campaign in 2021 in Saudi Arabia, but the seven-time world champion enjoyed a rare strong day in his Mercedes.

The Silver Arrows, the team which once ruled Formula One, have arrived for the eighth round of the campaign in the principality with a revised floor.

And they can take encouragement from Hamiltons early speed at a venue in which he has won three times previously. Ferrari, too, will be emboldened by Leclercs pace as he bids to take a first home win.

It has been the best day we have had on track, said Hamilton. The car was positive and I really enjoyed driving it. We still have some challenges with the balance but it was looking strong.

Leclerc said: We arrived here knowing that anything was possible. Mercedes have been struggling since the beginning of the season but they are very fast and we expect them to be the same tomorrow. Lewis has been on it all day.

However, for Verstappen  just as in Imola a week ago  he endured a scruffy start to his weekend.

And thats it for Friday  Time to debrief and work on our setup for Saturday  #F1 || #MonacoGP pic.twitter.com/KrGP2l0vfT  Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) May 24, 2024

The Dutchman complained that his car was jumping around like a kangaroo and he had a number of narrow close shaves with the barriers that wind their way around the unique 2.1-mile street course.

Verstappen could count himself fortunate to escape without any serious damage when his left-rear wheel clouted the Armco as he approached Portier.

I f****** hit the wall there, he said over the radio before heading back to the pits.

Verstappens form on Friday will be a cause of concern for the driver who has won five of the opening seven rounds.

Charles Leclerc finished on top for Ferrari in the second session in Monaco (Luca Bruno/AP)

But the triple world champion, who holds a 48-point lead over Leclerc in the standings, can also take faith from his slow start in Imola which he later transformed into pole position and a win.

Verstappens Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez took eighth, with George Russell, who finished third in the opening running, only 10th later in the day.

The Englishman, who holds a 6-1 qualifying record over team-mate Hamilton this season, was the best part of a second down.
It's a big day for the Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut. The aquarium recently announced the arrival of a brand new harbor seal pup. And celebrated their new addition with an adorable video introduction online.

The seal pup has yet to be named, but that doesn't mean his birth didn't make a huge splash.

In a video released by the aquarium, it shows the pup learning how to move around on dry land before attempting to get into the pool. The clip then shows the seal splashing around with his mama Pearl  so cute! You can even see the seal plunge into the water while his mama watches over on a platform above him.

Related: Cheeky Harbor Seal Attempts to Steal a Fisherman's Freshly-Caught Salmon Straight From His Hands

"We're excited to share that a Harbor seal pup was born at Mystic Aquarium on Mothers Day! How cute is he!?" the aquarium wrote in the caption.

According to WPRI, the seal pup was born only weeks ago on May 12. Meaning that at just weeks old, the little guy is swimming like a pro! The seal was born to Pearl, an adult Harbor seal who has been at the Mystic Aquarium for the last 12 years.

We couldnt be more excited. Hes healthy, hes strong and hes feisty, Laurie Macha, senior director of marine mammals and birds, told the news outlet.

This isn't the first seal pup that Pearl has had while at the Mystic Aquarium. In fact, this latest seal pup is the mom's second baby. Pearl has been deemed a successful breeder by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. Even more impressively, the seal mama gave birth within 15 minutes  a record if you ask us!

The seal pup was born weighing 12 kilograms and showed immediate signs that it was healthy. The aquarium said the pup was alert and active pretty soon after birth, which they claimed was an encouraging sign of health and vitality.

As the video shows, both Pearl and her baby are doing well post-birth. And their handlers are impressed by the infant's progress too.

The pup has been thriving with his mom, so giving them both access to water has been very exciting, Jen Rock, assistant supervisor of pinnipeds, explained to WPRI.

The team enjoyed watching the pup enter the water and see his instincts kick in by swimming right away," she added. "Pearl was great watching over him closely and teaching him how to dive and ensure he hauled out onto the beach when needed.

We can't wait to see even more "pup-dates" of the seal in the future.

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
Ms Rayner has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, describing the claims against her as a "stream of smears" by the Tories - Christopher Furlong/Getty Images Europe

Angela Rayner will be central to Labours election campaign despite an ongoing police investigation into claims she broke electoral law, The Telegraph understands.

The deputy Labour leader will play a major role in the contest while inquiries continue into allegations she gave false information about her living arrangements, which could have saved her up to 3,500 in capital gains tax on the sale of her former council house.

It will be seen as a further vote of confidence in Ms Rayner from Sir Keir Starmer, who has so far stood firmly by his deputy, as the Tories are likely to weaponise the row in the run up to the election on July 4.

Police are investigating whether Ms Rayner wrongly declared her permanent address on the electoral roll, which is a criminal offence. The question of where she was living is crucial to determining whether she owed any tax, and if she committed electoral fraud.

Ms Rayner has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, describing the claims against her as a stream of smears by the Tories. She said she had received expert advice, which she would provide to police and HM Revenue and Customs, but has resisted calls to publish it.

Sir Keir has said he has full confidence in his deputy, insisting she has not broken any rules despite not seeing the tax advice himself.

On Friday, Labour sources said she will be very central to the campaign despite the ongoing investigation.

Neighbours say Rayner was brothers landlord

The police inquiry centres around a former council house in Stockport which Ms Rayner had bought under the Right to Buy scheme prior to becoming an MP, and which she then sold in 2015.

She had claimed the house was her main residence, thereby legally avoiding a capital gains tax bill of up to 3,500.

In April, Stephen Watson, the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police implied she was being investigated over multiple allegations.

The Times reported that officers were looking at her council tax arrangements from the time in light of claims that she was not living at the property. A police source told the newspaper the inquiry was well resourced, with at least a dozen detectives, and that officers were looking at more than a single issue.

Ms Rayner bought her former council house in Vicarage Road, Stockport, in 2007 for a discounted price of 79,000 under the Right to Buy scheme.

She declared the property as her principal residence on the electoral register until she sold it for a profit of 48,500 in 2015, but is facing questions over whether she had moved to her ex husbands address in Lowndes Lane, a mile away, after the pair married in 2010.

Neighbours have contradicted her claims and said her brother was living at Vicarage Road, describing Ms Rayner as his landlord.

Greater Manchester Police, which initially decided not to look into the claims, opened an investigation last month after James Daly, a Tory MP, alerted officers to their testimony.

Ms Rayner has promised to resign if she is found to have broken the law.
Mr Johnson said the election would be 'much closer than currently forecast' - Andrew Parsons / No10 Downing Street

Boris Johnson threw his weight behind the Tory election campaign on Friday night by urging voters to save this country from socialism in a series of attacks on Sir Keir Starmer.

The former prime minister tore into the Labour leader as he urged the public to keep the Conservatives in office - but failed to mention Rishi Sunak by name once.

He warned that Sir Keir would be the most dangerous and Left-wing Labour prime minister since the 1970s who would raise both taxes and spending.

Mr Johnson also predicted that the election would be much closer than currently forecast because the public would hesitate deeply before voting Labour.

His strident intervention will boost Downing Street after what has been a tricky opening two days of the campaign for Mr Sunak, who on Friday said he would welcome Mr Johnson on the election trail.

In an article for the Daily Mail, Mr Johnson said Sir Keir and Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, were licking their lips vampirically about introducing wealth taxes.

He also warned that Labour, if elected, would throw in the sponge and let the boats come by reversing the Rwanda deportation plan for illegal migrants.

Mr Johnson said Sir Keir and Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, were 'licking their lips vampirically' about introducing wealth taxes - Stefan Rousseau/PA

Mr Johnson wrote: In most other countries, people are going for the centre-Right, not the Left. So why on earth are we about to lurch Left?

People need to snap out of it, now. Wake up. Look at Starmer  and never mind your exasperation with recent politics  save this country from socialism on July 4.

Socialism of the Starmer kind has never worked in this country, and it is frankly the last thing we need now.

He warned: They will come for your pensions, and your inheritances, and yes, they will come for your incomes  because their stated plans allow for no alternative.

The former prime minister said Labour in office would hike benefit payments, damage the economy and be weak on crime like Sadiq Khan, the Labour Mayor of London.

He also hit out at Sir Keir for being a pathetic captive of the woke tyranny and claimed he would try to reverse Brexit and take Britain back into the EU.

Mr Johnson pleaded with disaffected Tories not to defect to Reform UK, saying a vote for the Right-wing party was effectively a vote for the miserabilism of Labour.

Everywhere you look, Starmers Labour loves to punish aspiration, to expropriate the rewards of effort, and to snatch away opportunity, he warned.

While he used much of his 2,000-word column to attack Sir Keir, the former prime minister also failed to mention Mr Sunak.

The pair fell out after the former chancellors resignation effectively spelt the end of Mr Johnsons time in office, sparking accusations he had betrayed him.

It comes as Tory MPs in the Red Wall hope that Mr Johnson will join the campaign trail as they battle to save their seats from falling en masse.

Mr Sunak said that he would welcome the former prime minister joining the general election campaign.

He added: Id welcome any Conservative to come and join the campaign. Ive been in touch with Boris in the past. Im very proud of the work that we did together.
Flowers and tributes were left at the scene in Plaistow - CARL COURT/GETTY IMAGES EUROPE

A five-year-old boy died when he fell from his kitchen window on the 15th storey of an east London tower block, an inquest has heard.

Aalim Ahmed landed on a railing at the bottom of the residential block in Plaistow.

Aalims body was identified by his family and his cause of death has been listed as multiple injuries due to trauma from a fall from height.

The boy died instantly and his father discovered his body shortly before 6am on May 16, Walthamstow Coroners Court heard on Friday.

Members of the public contacted emergency services after residents heard the mans distressed cries.

Paramedics attended the scene outside Jacobs House on New City Road at 6.04am and police arrived three minutes later.

Ian Wade KC, the assistant coroner, said he was opening a coronial investigation because he is quite satisfied that Ahmeds death was not from natural causes.

The boy was previously named locally as Alam Makial Jibril and a GoFundMe has raised just over 1,000 for his funeral costs.

Flowers were left at the scene and Newham Council is investigating the circumstances.

Abi Gbago, the chief executive of the council, said: We are undertaking a full investigation to reach the fullest possible understanding of what happened, and will fully support any other investigations.

Once all of the relevant facts are established and investigations are concluded, which we will do as quickly as possible, we will provide an update.

Caroline Stone, the head teacher at New City Primary School in Plaistow, said in the schools weekly newsletter: As you will have heard, Aalim had a tragic accident yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
A meeting between two workers in an office

Describing a woman as looking frumpy at work could count as discrimination, an employment judge has ruled.

Using the expression may amount to unwanted conduct, a tribunal concluded.

As a result, women could successfully sue under equality laws as the comment is inherently linked to gender and has the potential of violating their dignity.

The ruling came in the case of Yuanyuan Zhang, an investment company worker who said she had been humiliated after her boss described her choice of outfit as looking like a frumpy grandma.

Although her claim was eventually dismissed because she had waited too long to raise it, the employment tribunal concluded that such a comment was unwanted conduct related to sex.

The tribunal in central London heard that Ms Zhang worked as a deputy design director for Greenland Investment from September 2015 to March 2021 and had relocated from China for the role.

In May 2020, Ling Luan, a deputy HR director, confirmed that the company would support her application for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

However, the hearing was told that in August an issue with her status arose that Ms Zhang claimed forced her to resign.

The panel heard she signed a resignation letter after comments made by Mr Luan.

Inherently linked to gender

Ms Zhang says that [Ling Luan] made reference to her trousers and that they made her look like a frumpy grandma, the hearing was told.

The conversation was not in English and we accept the words may not translate over exactly.

It was the tribunals finding that it was more likely than not that this comment was made.

The fact that [Mr Luan] recalls making a comment about [Ms Zhang]s clothing and the comment appears to be about how drab they were, suggests that it was a comment of the nature she alleges.

Employment Judge Paul Singh said: We found that such a comment was unwanted conduct related to sex.

The very nature of the comment [calling someone frumpy] was inherently linked to gender and we also found that such conduct had the purpose or effect of violating her dignity.

[Ms Zhang] expresses how humiliated the comment made her feel and we can understand why she says that.

Despite this conclusion, the tribunal found that because the incident had taken place in November 2020 and she only lodged her complaint against Mr Luan in July 2021, she was too late for her claim to succeed.

Ms Zhang therefore had claims of unfair dismissal, sex discrimination, sex harassment, victimisation and unlawful reduction from wages thrown out.
The Israeli representation at the International Court of Justice - NICK GAMMON/AFP via Getty

Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in Gaza, the International Court of Justice ruled on Friday.

The ruling came after South Africa petitioned the world court to stop Israel entering Rafah, the besieged southernmost settlement in the Gaza Strip.

The petition is part of a wider genocide case against Israel, which judges have not yet ruled on.

In conformity with the obligations under the genocide convention, Israel must immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in [Rafah] which [it] may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza, Nawaf Salam, the presiding judge, said at the hearing on Friday.

The UN courts rulings are binding but it has no way of enforcing them. Israel has said that a pause in fighting would allow an already resurgent Hamas to regroup.

South Africa has framed the Israeli military operation in Gaza as part of a genocidal plan aimed at bringing about the destruction of the Palestinian people.

The decision is a blow to an increasingly isolated Israel.

Although its impact on the ground in Gaza is expected to be limited, with Israel unlikely to respect the ruling, the political and diplomatic fallout is likely to be widespread.

The judgment follows the ICJs decision in January to hear allegations of genocide against Israel after South Africa brought a case against it.

Earlier this week, the chief prosecutor of the separate International Criminal Court (ICC) applied for arrest warrants to be issued against Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, the Israeli prime minister and defence minister, for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

In Israel, the pressure is causing the country to rally round its leaders  something actively encouraged by Mr Netanyahu who is dependent for his political survival on support from the extreme Right.

Externally, however, the impact is working against him. Ireland, Norway and Spain all moved to recognise the Palestinian state this week and every day world criticism grows.

Even in the UK and US  Israels most loyal Western allies  patience is wearing thin. The US continues to restrict the export of certain heavy weapons to Israel.

The devastating impact of the Israeli offensive that has roused political opposition - BASHAR TALEB/AFP via Getty

In the hearing on Friday, the court also ordered Israel to open up the border crossing with Egypt and Gaza to allow more humanitarian aid into the enclave, as well as provide access for investigators.

Israel took control of the vital Rafah crossing into Gaza, which borders Egypt, in a pinpoint operation against Hamas in April, sparking international condemnation over fears it could trigger a humanitarian crisis while more than a million civilians are taking refuge there.

South Africa has framed the Israeli military operation in Gaza as part of a genocidal plan aimed at bringing about the destruction of the Palestinian people.

Its lawyers said Israels control over the two major border crossings in southern Gaza  Rafah and Kerem Shalom  was preventing sufficient humanitarian aid from entering the enclave.

Protesters, largely Houthi supporters, rally to show solidarity with Gaza, in Yemen - Khaled Abdullah/Reuters

The 15 judges were split 13-2 over the latest order on Friday, with judges from Uganda and Israel providing the only opposition.

Bezalel Smotrich, Israels finance minister and leader of a far-Right party, dismissed the ruling after it was handed down.

The state of Israel is at war for its existence. Those who demand that the state of Israel stop the war, demand that it decree itself to cease to exist. We will not agree to that, he said.
The influx of resignations follow Rishi Sunak's announcement of the July 4 elections - EDWARD MASSEY/CCHQ

The number of Tory MPs standing down at the general election has surpassed the Conservative Party record set in 1997 when Labour won a landslide under Sir Tony Blair.

Michael Gove was among six MPs on Friday to announce that they would not seek re-election, taking the total of Tories stepping down to 78 in the wake of Rishi Sunak triggering a snap summer poll.

It comes after Greg Clark, the former Cabinet minister, Sir David Evennett, the MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, and Craig Mackinlay, the Tory MP for South Thanet who only made his return to Parliament this week after he lost his arms and legs to sepsis, also said they will not seek re-election.

Dame Andrea Leadsom, a former business secretary and Tory leadership candidate, confirmed on Friday night that she would not be standing.

On Friday night, Mr Gove called time on a memorable 19-year career as the MP for Surrey Heath, during which he has held six different roles in the cabinet under four prime ministers.

In a letter shared on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Gove, 56, cited the toll of serving in office and said it was time for a new generation to lead.

In a show of support for Rishi Sunak as campaigning for the general election gets under way, he added: We have a Prime Minister who I know exemplifies the patriotism, hard work, sense of selfless service and clarity of purpose which are the very best virtues of our party.

Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, was quick to insist there was nothing unusual about the scale of the exodus ahead of the general election.

But there are fears the Conservatives are on track for a similarly heavy defeat to the loss endured by Sir John Major in 1997, and Mr Sunak continues to trail Sir Keir Starmers Labour Party by around 20 points in the polls.

Some MPs planned to stagger news of their resignations over the coming months having anticipated an autumn election. But Mr Sunaks surprise decision to call for a July election on Wednesday has prompted several prominent Tories to confirm they will quit politics rather than contest their seats.

Mr Clark, who has been the MP for Tunbridge Wells since 2005, said that sitting in the House of Commons is a five-year commitment and that it was time to pass the baton on.

Mr Mackinlay revealed he faced further operations to help his recovery from sepsis, adding: It would be difficult to withstand the rigours of an all-out election campaign, a campaign that Id always wish to lead from the front.

Thereafter, upon being re-elected it would be difficult for me to sustain 70 to 80-hour working weeks which were the norm prior to my illness.

Sitting ministers including Huw Merriman, a frontbencher at the Department for Transport, and Jo Churchill, the employment minister, have also announced they will step aside following the election being called.

On Friday morning, Sir John Redwood, who was the head of Margaret Thatchers No 10 policy unit and a former cabinet minister, ruled himself out of the forthcoming contest in Wokingham, where he has been the MP since 1987.

In a message to constituents, he said: I have other things I wish to do It has been a privilege to represent Wokingham in nine parliaments.

Mr Shapps sought to downplay the record-breaking total, telling Sky News: I dont think it is actually all that unusual. You often get a lot standing down at election time.

You often get this illusion that there are more standing down from the governing side and of course, the good reason for that is there are by definition more MPs on the governing side.

Other Tory big beasts standing aside rather than fighting the next national poll include Theresa May, the former prime minister, Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, and Nadhim Zahawi and Sajid Javid, two former chancellors.

In her final speech in the Commons on Friday, Ms May said of being an MP: I think it is the best job in the world. And of course, it has its frustrations  particularly has its frustrations when youre in Government and people dont vote on your own side, three times.

But there we are, we get over these things, we carry on, we come back. But it is a really important job, and the key to it is to represent constituents.

And I worry there are too many people in politics who think it is about them, their ambitions, their careers and not about the people they serve We are there to serve our country and to serve our constituents.

Dominic Raab, the former justice secretary, will not seek re-election in Esher and Walton, which is being redrawn as part of the boundary review.

He had a majority of less than 3,000 at the last general election and his seat is one of those being targeted by the Liberal Democrats as they seek to unseat Tories in the Blue Wall.

The departure of Sir John Redwood marks the exit of the final member of Sir John Majors cabinet from the Commons.

This means that it is unlikely anybody who served in the Cabinet before the early 2000s will still be an MP following June 4.

On Friday, Baroness Davidson of Ludin Links, the former Scottish Tory leader, mocked Mr Sunaks election campaign and asked whether there was a double agent inside the Tory partys headquarters.

She wrote on X, formerly Twitter: The deluge launch, drowned out by D:Ream. A brewery visit with a teetotal PM, so no chance of a p--- up.

Now a site visit to something famous for sinking. Is there a double agent in CCHQ, and were they a headline writer in a previous life? Our candidates deserve better.
The Gherkin, pictured under construction, would come to symbolise the resilience and supercharged confidence of the City at the beginning of the millennium - Paul Grover

Other cities had an inferiority complex, desperately trying to catch up by building something interesting, says Peter Rees, former planning chief for the City of London Corporation. But in London we knew we were number one.

Twenty years ago, Rees and architect Ken Shuttleworth, then of Norman Fosters architectural firm Foster + Partners, were largely responsible for a new, glittering bullet on Londons skyline.

Its first name was the Swiss Re Building (after its main tenant), and later 30 St Mary Axe. But to Londoners it would always be the Gherkin.

After opening in the spring of 2004, the skyscraper quickly became a symbol of resilience and supercharged confidence at the turn of the millennia. Other cities have tried to replicate it: Barcelona with the Torre Glories and Bangkoks Pearl Building.

But Rees says the Gherkin was an accidental star. It was never meant to be wacky for wackys sake, he says. All the things that inspired its shape were practical: the barley-sugar twist is for natural ventilation; it is smaller at the top and bottom to make it less oppressive.

What is certain, looking back, is that the 180-metre skyscraper jump-started a building boom in the heart of the City  some say to its own detriment.

Once the second-tallest building in the Square Mile, standing just three metres shorter than Tower 42, today it is only the 23rd-highest building in the capital.

A cluster of taller, quirkier towers such as the Cheesegrater and the Scalpel are now part of the jumble in the City of London, obscuring views of the Gherkin from many angles as it turns 20. And yet more development is on the way still, threatening to all but obliterate from the skyline by the end of the decade a building that has come to embody the millennium era.

Conversation starter: The Gherkin won the prestigious Stirling Prize in 2004 but not everyone was initially happy with the design - iStockphoto

The plans have led to philosophical discussions of the kind rarely focused on outposts of high finance: what will be the future for Londons best-loved skyscraper if we can no longer see it? Is it too late to protect its place in the capitals vistas? Should we even try?

For the architectural profession and the public, the Gherkin has proved itself worthy of such debate. Just months after opening on April 28, 2004, it won the Stirling Prize, the UKs most prestigious architecture award. A year after that, queues for a public open day stretched for five hours.

At the outset, however, the Gherkin was the building much of London never wanted. It was the first tall structure in the City since the NatWest Tower opened in 1980, replacing the Baltic Exchange, a neoclassical trading hall of cathedral proportions, which was reduced to ruin by an IRA bomb in 1992. The modern, clean ovoid that would supplant a Grade II-listed Edwardian facade was a shock to traditionalists.

Detractors fretted that an enormous glass phallus would loom 591 feet above some of the most dignified churches in London. The press called it the Erotic Gherkin, and asked where you put the batteries, says Rees.

But the nickname that began as a term of abuse quickly turned into a term of endearment, with the buildings radical design becoming visual shorthand for a period of economic growth.

If a director wanted to say London, then characters tended to work in the Gherkin and go for lunch at Tate Modern  see the terrible 2005 Woody Allen film Match Point, says Charles Holland, an architect and author of How to Enjoy Architecture, a new book that aims to encourage readers to look closely at the buildings around them.

Customers sit at tables outside the Gherkin in 2020 - Simon Dawson/Bloomberg

The skyscrapers landmark status was sealed when a lookalike Queen Elizabeth II and Daniel Craig as James Bond flew over its domed frame in a helicopter for the opening film for the 2012 Olympic Games.

It is architecture as pure symbol, says Holland.

So what persuaded Londoners that the building many had dreaded was, in fact, a masterpiece? It holds its own. It is modern but it has a softness and gentleness about it that really gave it its appeal, says Grant Brooker, head of studio at Foster + Partners.

One story  which may be apocryphal but is wonderful  is that the tessellating triangular glazing was an intentional nod to the leaded windows of City churches, says Catherine Croft, director of the Twentieth Century Society, which campaigns to protect modern buildings. That level of character and originality seems almost completely absent from most high-rise London buildings of the past decade or more.

Its a combination of attention to detail and a compelling big idea, uncompromised by building programme, budget or setting, that makes the Gherkin so memorable.

Perhaps the best judges of all are the people who work in the building. They often speak of the drama of advancing weather systems and magisterial views, offset on occasions by the Gherkins snags.

The famous blinds which automatically come down were actually activated by heat on the windows rather than sunlight, and the temperature needed to reach a certain level before they worked, says one woman who worked for a Gherkin-based insurer in the 2000s. At a certain time each day, Id be partially blinded.

But most of the time it was great  very light, clean and pleasant. And the 360-degree views from the [40th-floor] bar were fantastic.

Rees remembers a lengthy approval process that brought such views to fruition.

English Heritage said that if the Baltic Exchange had to come down, it should be replaced by something of high architectural quality, a taller building with space around it, he says. Developers started to salivate [like] a hungry pack of canines.

An early design by Foster + Partners involved a millennium tower  twice the height of the eventual Gherkin. They came into our office with this huge box and they kept lifting the lid, more and more. It had two rabbit-ear things on top. Obviously too shocking, out of scale and out of place, so they withdrew it, says Rees.

Dozens of test models followed. Then one day Ken Shuttleworth put a model of a circular building in front of me, rather like a pumpkin. I said, Dont you think it would be better if it were taller and thinner?

Gherkin neighbour 'the Walkie Talkie' was once voted the ugliest building in Britain - Toby Melville/Reuters

Various accounts of the genesis of the design are on record. But there is no doubt about the buildings popularity today, particularly in relation to others in its immediate neighbourhood such as the Can of Ham and the Walkie Talkie, once voted the ugliest building in Britain.

In his 2022 book Iconicon, the architecture critic John Grindrod described the Gherkin as a building that makes you happy when you see it  thats if youre lucky enough to be still able to from behind the wall of towers that has grown up around it.

Jostled into submission by its generally inferior neighbours is how Croft puts it.

Increasingly crowded out, some have tried to stop the Gherkin from being upstaged altogether in years to come, though it would be unlikely to join the list of Londons 13 protected views of historic buildings, such as St Pauls and the Palace of Westminster..

Protected status from Historic England would go some way to preserving views of the Gherkin. But buildings under 30 rarely qualify for listing, meaning its not anticipated to be eligible for another 10 years.

Instead, campaigners have kept their focus local, albeit without success so far.

Last year, the City consulted on a new conservation area, and we argued the boundary should be extended by one street to include the Gherkin, says a spokesman for the Twentieth Century Society. That would have given more leverage for arguing it was being crowded out. But it was rejected.

Meanwhile, more towers are on their way. According to the tall buildings survey published by think tank New London Architecture this May, 583 buildings of more than 20 storeys are in Londons planning pipeline, partly in response to demand for premium office space  more than twice as many as the 270 built over the past decade.

Thats despite a general rise in vacancy rates tied to post-pandemic home-working practices, with 12.1 per cent of corporate space in the Square Mile set to be empty by the end of this year, up from 10.8 per cent in 2023, according to CoStar, a research company focused on commercial real estate.

Some say the development boom is a good thing, despite its implications for the Gherkin. The Gherkin was a marker, but I dont think it then becomes something that resists further change, says Brooker. London has this crazy organic quality, which is symbolically powerful. The Gherkins role was to enable that. It said, yes, London can evolve.

You cant protect views of everything, says Rees. You could say St Pauls Cathedral spawned the rival spires to the parish churches. The Gherkin is totemic of a period of change, the gaining of greater strength.

Lord Foster inside the Gherkin, one of his most famous designs - Andrew Crowley

Lord Foster himself seems sure of its legacy, regardless of what the future holds.

There is a nice irony that the nickname of the Gherkin was created by the critics as a derogatory term and has since been embraced by the public as one of endorsement, he says.

As others point out, the Gherkin is unique among skyscrapers in that its nickname was no contrivance. It was awarded by Londoners to the glittering bullet that stole their hearts.

For buildings to acquire a nickname by common consent they have to gain a place in the popular imagination. The Gherkin has done that, says Holland.

You dont design an icon, says Brooker. Its people who tell you if you have.
Chi Leung (Peter) Wai outside the Old Bailey - Lucy North/PA

Two men alleged to have spied on Hong Kong activists in the UK have appeared in court for the first time since their co-accused was found dead.

The body of former Royal Marine, Matthew Trickett, 37, who was awaiting trial, was discovered in Grenfell Park, Maidenhead, on Sunday.

On Friday, his co-defendants, Chi Leung Wai, 38 and Chung Biu Yuen, 63, attended the Old Bailey for their first Crown Court hearing.

The trio were accused of carrying out surveillance on Hong Kong pro-democracy activists living in the UK.

Mr Wai, a Border Force officer at Heathrow, and Mr Yuen, a Hong Kong trade official, both wearing dark suits and black ties, spoke only to confirm their names during the brief hearing.

A provisional five-week trial was set for Kingston Crown Court from Feb 10 2025.

A further hearing at the Old Bailey will take place on October 25.

Mr Justice Jeremy Baker confirmed the case would be heard by a High Court judge and granted the two men continued conditional bail.

Alistair Richardson, for the prosecution, told the court that the case against Mr Trickett had been discontinued following his death.

He added: The cause of his death is currently given as unexplained, and his death has been confirmed by the coroner.

Mr Trickett appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on May 13 for the first time.

At that hearing, despite the prosecution asking for Mr Trickett to be remanded in custody for his own welfare, he was granted bail.

Mr Trickett was filmed sprinting away from court while covering his face with his hands.

His body was found just under a week later.

While he was on bail, he was in contact with Thames Valley Police as he was required to register at a police station regularly.

Because of this contact before his death, the force has referred itself to the policing watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The IOPC has decided the matter should be investigated by Thames Valley Polices Professional Standards Department.

Mr Tricketts family said in a statement: We are mourning the loss of a much-loved son, brother, and family member.

Mr Trickett was formerly employed by the UK Border Force at Heathrow before joining Home Office Immigration Enforcement in February this year.

He was also listed as the sole director of MTR Consultancy, which he founded in 2021, and he described himself as a security consultant.

The three men were detained following an investigation by counter-terrorism police in which 11 people were arrested under the National Security Act, which was introduced last year to tackle the threat to the UK posed by hostile states.

The men were charged with assisting a foreign intelligence service to undertake information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception between December 20 last year and May 2. They were also charged with assisting a foreign intelligence service by forcing entry into a UK residential address.
Daniel Bruhl said facts about Lagerfeld's life were hard to pin down - John Balsom for The Telegraph

Karl Lagerfeld embodied the grace and machismo of a bullfighter, the star of a new drama depicting the designers life has said.

Daniel Bruhl, who plays the German fashion designer in Disneys upcoming series Becoming Karl Lagerfeld, recalled an epiphany he had during a conversation with one of Lagerfelds lifelong friends.

The moment of inspiration came when Bruhl imitated Lagerfeld for art historian and photographer Patrick Hourcade. Speaking to The Telegraph Magazine, Bruhl explained: [I] had an epiphany that Lagerfeld is like a torero, a bullfighter.

Because bullfighters, Ive always thought, are so feminine and graceful and elegant, but so macho and masculine at the same time. I said it to him: Monsieur Hourcade, Im thinking of a matador?

Lagerfeld in 2016, pictured with Diane Kruger (R) and Cara Delevingne - Le Segretain/Getty

Bruhl recalled that the historian agreed enthusiastically with this parallel. So, while making the series, the actor would get into character before shooting by adopting a matadors stance.

Sometimes you need something very technical to hold on to, the 45-year-old German-Spanish actor explained.

Lagerfeld, who died in 2019 aged 85, was credited with transforming the fading fashion house Chanel into the worlds most successful label, as creative director for the brand from 1983 until his death.

The new series, however, will chart his life in the 1970s when he was living in Paris and forging his career and name in the industry at Fendi, and at Chloe.

Bruhl said that one challenge in playing the role came from the fact that information about Lagerfeld is so contradictory.

The Rush and Good Bye Lenin! star said: I took in everything I could read and watch and listen to, but his books all contradict each other, because he lied so much.

Bruhl previously starred in Rush and in Good Bye Lenin! - John Balsom for The Telegraph

The powerhouse designer was known to make a virtue of anonymity, once stating: I have no personality or I have three, depending on how you look at it. I love that theres no overlap.

The actor said he sympathised with this knack for dishonesty, explaining: I had deep empathy with that because I did a similar thing as a kid. Id lie to make myself more interesting.

He added that the designers life of contradiction in Paris must have been challenging, explaining: You can see the things he had to deal with, as a homosexual German in Paris, that must have been tough.

And to keep that armour, living this contradiction of being constantly in the limelight but very lonely and reclusive, is fascinating.

Bruhl said he has learned to speak up for himself on film shoots, even if it means being labelled 'complicated' - John Balsom for The Telegraph

Bruhl, who lives in rural Majorca with his family, also discussed how he has learned to live with being labelled a complicated actor with whom to work.

I learnt not to shut my mouth, he told The Telegraph Magazine, adding: If they say theres big people [in charge], I dont care  theyll regret the moment they ever gave me their number.

I learned to live with the label of being a complicated actor. Thats the way they always put it, complicated, just when we are fighting for a better result.

But ultimately people respect it, Bruhl said.

Becoming Karl Lagerfeld streams on Disney+ from June 7.
Britain's elite schools are a valuable export industry - Xialu Chu/Getty

Wealthy Arabs love Mayfair for its flash restaurants and beautiful boutiques, but when Saudi dignitaries swept into a discreet address off Park Lane last week, it was not designer clothes or haute cuisine they were after. Led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias education minister, the delegation had come to talk about our famous schools and universities  and explore opportunities for exporting the best of British education to Riyadh and beyond.

Oh, the irony! Just as Labour limbers up to unleash a devastating ideological assault on private schools with a tax policy that threatens to drive some out of existence, one of the richest and most ambitious countries on the planet is eyeing them up.

During their stay in London, the Saudi delegation met UK government officials, representatives from schools and universities, and British businesses. They were all eager to feature in Mohammed bin Salman al Sauds multibillion dollar programme to transform his kingdom from a hard-line Islamic regime that used to condone the stoning of women for adultery into an AI superpower with a tech industry that will make Silicon Valley look dated.

Whether Saudi ministers found time in their packed schedule to talk to anyone from the Labour Party is doubtful, which may be just as well. The danger is that Sir Keir Starmers lot would not have been able to resist talking down our elite educational establishments. Far from celebrating the fact that we have the most famous schools on the planet, and recognising that the best of these institutions provide an outstanding education to British children and attract the offspring of a global elite (boosting this countrys diminishing influence in the world), Labour wants to vaporise them.

Lest there be any doubt, the Leader of the Opposition used one of his first broadcast interviews of the general election campaign yesterday to declare that his toxic plan to slap VAT on school fees is a day one priority. It will come into force as fast as he can make it happen. In a few months time, parents of children in private schools will see a 20 per cent hike to fees that, for many, are already almost impossible to pay.

While those who sacrifice almost everything to send their children to independent schools because the local state offering is inadequate seethe at the self-defeating, green-eyed, doggie-in-the-manger politics driving this policy, governors and trustees must face up to the facts. They are now in a desperate race against time to stop a mass exodus of pupils to a state system that cannot cope with the numbers it already has. If they are to survive they need solutions  fast.

The enthusiasm of other countries for a product an incoming Labour government will not value offers a lifeline. A growing number of British schools may be able to absorb some of the VAT hit by increasing their network of overseas outposts in rapidly developing places like Saudi. This does not involve reinventing the wheel: many are already expanding across the world.

This September, Uppingham opens a 10-acre campus in Cairo, overlooking the Great Pyramid of Giza. Dulwich College, Harrow, Shrewsbury, Wellington, Repton and Brighton College are among the many other famous British schools with international campuses in the Middle East and South-East Asia. Such franchises pay hefty fees to the UK schools to use their brand. Boost this overseas income, and it may be possible to keep the motherships afloat.

By establishing new outposts, independent schools will be doing parents a double service. Those who remain committed to providing their children with the best possible education, but do not want to bankroll the further ruination of this country under a redistributive, net zero-obsessed Left-wing administration, will be able to vote with their feet. As the countdown towards a likely Keir Starmer government begins, there is still time to get out  and enrol children in a brilliant British school overseas.
People search the debris at the site of the landslide in Papua New Guineas Enga province. Photograph: Benjamin Sipa/AP

More than 300 people have been killed in a landslide in a remote region in northern Papua New Guinea, a local politician has said.

Amos Akem, an MP for Enga province, said the landslide struck Yambali village, about two hours drive from the provincial capital, Wabag, in the early hours of Friday. The road to Yambali from the capital is blocked, hampering relief efforts.

From reports gathered on the ground, the landslide buried more than 300 people and 1,182 houses, Akem said.

National authorities have still to give an official death toll. Early estimates put it at about 100 people.

The chief of the International Organization for Migrations mission in Papua New Guinea, Serhan Aktoprak, said the area affected was the size of three or four football fields, and home to 3,895 people. He said some houses in the village had escaped, but that the number of casualties were not yet known.

The land still continues sliding, therefore it makes it very difficult to operate on, Aktoprak said, citing first-hand reports from his staff and others deployed from Wabag to the affected village.

Aktoprak, who spoke to Associated Press by phone from Papua New Guineas capital, Port Moresby, said that given the scale of the disaster, he feared that the death toll could be higher than the original estimates.

Engas provincial administrator, Sandis Tsaka, said emergency response teams had been sent to the area, including disaster, police and health workers as the extent of the damaged was assessed.

The devastating landslide which is being described as an unprecedented natural disaster occurred early hours of this morning  causing substantial damages to property and human lives which are currently unaccounted for, Tsaka said.

Tsaka called for support for the national government and other organisations to help victims of the disaster.

Pictures posted on social media showed residents scaling huge rocks, scattered among tree trunks, and debris left by the landslide.

The prime minister, James Marape, said authorities were responding and that he would release information about the destruction and loss of life when it was available.

I am yet to be fully briefed on the situation. However, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the landslide disaster in the early hours of this morning, he said. We are sending in disaster officials, PNG Defense Force, and the Department of Works and Highways to  start relief work, recovery of bodies, and reconstruction of infrastructure.

Elizabeth Laruman, who runs a business in the area, told Australian media that houses were flattened when the side of a mountain gave way. It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours, and the entire village has gone down, Laruma told the ABC.

Papua New Guinea is a diverse, developing nation of mostly subsistence farmers where 800 languages are spoken. There are few roads outside the larger cities and with 10 million people, it is the second most populous nation in the South Pacific after Australia.

Telecommunications are poor, particularly outside Port Moresby, where government data shows 56% of social media users live. Only 1.66 million people in the country use the internet and 85% of the population live in rural areas.

Rebecca Kuku is a reporter with the National, based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Additional reporting by Reuters and the Associated Press
Appearing on the BBC's Question Time, Bridget Phillipson was asked if she would remove the current cap of 9,250

Labours stance on tuition fees descended into chaos as Sir Keir Starmer branded them unfair hours after his shadow education secretary suggested they may be raised.

Sir Keir said he wanted to change the current arrangement as he was questioned over abandoning his 2020 leadership pledge to axe the 9,250-a-year payments.

But he risked angering his Left-wing MPs after insisting that he would not revive the promise even if the economy improved enough to make it affordable.

The Labour leader made the comments a day after Bridget Phillipson, the shadow education secretary, had suggested fees may have to be increased to save universities.

Universities in England made an average loss of 2,500 for every domestic student they educated last year - Wiktor Szymanowicz/Barcroft Media

Earlier on Thursday, Pat McFadden, the partys national campaign coordinator, appeared to rule out any prospect of tuition fees being scrapped.

Sir Keir said he would have abolished the payments in an ideal world but that doing so was now unaffordable because the economy had been so badly damaged by the Tories.

He argued he faced a choice over whether to spend billions on getting rid of university fees or funding cutting NHS waiting lists and prioritised the latter.

But he told the BBC: Tuition fees, or abolishing them, was something that I said five years ago now that I would like to see.

I do still think that the tuition fee system is unfair. Its unfair on those that are at university. Its actually unfair on universities. Of course, I still want to resolve the tuition fees.

He added: I certainly believe weve got to change the current arrangement because I dont think theyre fair. Obviously abolishing tuition fees is one way of achieving that.

I think how most people think is look, yes, in an ideal world I would like a number of things, but in the real world, I cant have them all. Ive got to make some difficult choices.

And Id rather make the choice now, this side of the election, than say something which I know in my heart of hearts is not deliverable the other side of the election.

When asked later if he could revive the pledge in the long term if economic conditions allowed, he replied: No, were now looking at alternatives to that.

His remarks appeared to directly contradict Ms Phillipson, the shadow education secretary, who had suggested fees may have to be increased to save universities.

Putting fees up is an unpalatable choice

During an appearance on Newsnight, Ms Phillipson said the decade-long freeze, under which fees have been set at 9,000 a year since 2012-13, meant universities are increasingly struggling to cover the cost of tuition.

International students are increasingly cross-subsidising the education of domestic students because of the situation weve ended up in, she told the BBC.

Asked whether fees could be put up again under Labour, she added: That is a really, really unpalatable choice. I do not want to have to do that, I absolutely dont.

Earlier on Thursday, Mr McFadden was asked whether Sir Keir would revive his pledge to axe them if economic conditions improved.

I think the position is settled on that, he replied, indicating fees would remain in place.

Richard Holden, the Tory chairman, said: Sir Keir Starmer hasnt just broken his leadership campaign promise to scrap tuition fees, hes now smashing it up with a sledgehammer.

Not only will Starmer not scrap tuition fees, his Shadow Education Secretary is saying he will increase them.

Its no wonder people think Sir Keir Starmer doesnt have the courage, conviction or plan to secure Britains future in an uncertain world.

Momentum, the left-wing pressure group, added: Our universities are in crisis. The country is crying out for a real alternative to Tory ruin.

That means bold Labour policies like abolishing tuition fees and scrapping the 2-child cap. The status quo wont cut it.
The Chancellor Jeremy Hunt in the village of Compton, Surrey, part of his constituency to start canvasing ahead of the General Election

Earlier this week, the broadcaster Anne Robinson revealed that she had given away much of her wealth to her family to save them from having to pay inheritance tax on her fortune after her death. It was a striking example of the way in which death duties distort behaviour. Inheritance tax can compel individuals to make complicated and sometimes perverse financial decisions in order to prevent money that has already been taxed from being taxed again after they have died. It can also disincentivise saving in the first place.

It is welcome that Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor, appears to recognise this. In an interview with this newspaper, he calls inheritance tax pernicious and profoundly anti-Conservative, in a reassuring sign that he understands why so many voters object to the levy so passionately. In the grand scheme of things, it raises comparatively little. But it hits individuals at a particularly painful moment with an unfair duty that can force them to sell assets like the family home.

In the interview, Mr Hunt also reflects that more must be done to clear up the distortions in the tax system that can result in taxpayers earning between 50,000 and 125,000 paying extortionate marginal rates. This again affects behaviour, leaving people less willing to take on extra work, seek a promotion, or find a better-paying job. They are allowed to keep too few of the fruits of their own labour, and quite reasonably feel resentful.

It would be fair to say that, over the past few decades, the middle classes have been somewhat overlooked by the political class. Priority in Budgets has been given to boosting the incomes of the lower-paid, through measures such as increasing the minimum wage and lifting the personal allowance. Middle and higher earners have been expected to take on an increasing proportion of the burden for funding public services.

But the middle classes are the backbone of the British economy, as well as being historically an important part of the Tories core vote. The party should be looking to put support for their interests at the heart of its general election manifesto.

There could also be electoral dividends in reviving the old Conservative mission to expand the middle class, by rebuilding Britains property-owning democracy. Instead of discouraging people from saving, providing for themselves and their families, the Tories should be introducing a new generation to the benefits of home ownership and wealth accumulation. It was a political formula that worked for Margaret Thatcher. There seems little reason why it would not work again.
The University of Brighton will be monitoring air quality during the trial at Worthing Crematorium

The worlds first hydrogen-powered crematorium is being tested in Worthing, West Sussex, in an effort to cut carbon emissions.

About 470,000 people are cremated each year in Britains 300 crematoria, the majority of which are powered by natural gas.

For every gas cremation, approximately 245kg of carbon is released into the atmosphere - adding up to a total of 115,150 tonnes each year.

To try to lower emissions, the University of Brighton is working with Worthing Borough Council on a four-week trial which will see one of three gas-fired crematoria converted to hydrogen power.

Abigail Dombey, HyCrem project manager at Net Zero Associates, which developed the original funding application, said: The transition to net zero will involve all areas of life, including how we deal with death.

We need to decarbonise cremations, so its incredibly exciting to be part of this project which will identify how we can do so - and is even a world first.

It is hoped the technology will help reduce carbon emissions

Many crematoria in Europe are moving to electric systems, and Huntingdon Town Council recently installed two electric cremators, with other local authorities expected to follow suit in the near future.

Electric cremators release around 90 per cent less carbon than a conventional gas cremator, with only carbon from the combustion of the body and the coffin entering the air. It is expected that hydrogen-powered cremators will show similar results.

The Cemetery Development Services Group estimates that to offset the carbon emissions of Greater Londons crematoria, around 134,000 acres of new tree seedlings would need to be planted.

Highest quality air standards

Worthing is hoping to be carbon neutral by 2030, and the University of Brighton will be monitoring air quality during the project.

Dr Kirsty Smallbone, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences at the university, said: We need to decarbonise all aspects of our lives, from the cradle to the grave. Removing the reliance on fossil fuels by switching to hydrogen will be a key part of this.

By monitoring air quality, we can ensure that the transition to hydrogen power is not only environmentally beneficial but also maintains the highest air quality standards.

The new process will use green hydrogen, which is produced using electricity from renewable sources.

Unlike natural gas, hydrogen does not give off CO2 emissions when burnt. Green hydrogen is also produced without any carbon emissions.

The project is funded with a 1,168,500 grant awarded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Novak Djokovic suffered a setback before the French Open by losing to Tomas Machac in Geneva.

Machac captured the biggest win of his career as a 6-4 0-6 6-1 victory saw him reach his first final at the Geneva Open.

The world number one appeared out of sorts and received a medical timeout at the end of the first set, which he had led 4-1 before fading.

Novak Djokovic (right) congratulates Tomas Machac after losing in the semi-final of the Geneva Open (Martial Trezzini/Keystone via AP)

Djokovic broke for a 3-1 lead and seemed in command, but his Czech opponent  who had pushed him hard in Dubai last year before losing  stepped on the gas to win five successive games.

The second set was a different story as Djokovic produced several superb forehand winners to level the match in style.

Djokovic won the opening game of the deciding set, but it was downhill after that as another surge from Machac proved unstoppable.

The Serb now heads to Paris where he faces Frances Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round.
A nursery owner said she was inclined to vote Labour after questioning Rishi Sunak about support for the childcare sector.

Jennifer Hughes, owner of the Bluebell Hill Nursery in Cannock, Staffordshire, challenged the Prime Minister on a campaign visit to the area, asking how he would help early years education providers that could not cover their costs with the funding available.

She explained that she ran at a deficit of 2 per child, with 75% of her funding coming from the local authority and a rising minimum wage adding to her costs.

Mr Sunak said it was interesting that Government rates were not enough to cover her costs, adding: The department did a survey and what they found is that the rates that the Government is now paying, because weve increased them, are actually higher than they were in the private sector.

The Prime Minister went on to say the Government had put 5 billion into the sector to provide more free childcare and had increased the rates for providers.

Ms Hughes and Mr Sunak had their exchange during a question and answer session at South Staffordshire College, the Prime Ministers final stop on his two-day campaigning tour of all four nations of the UK.

Speaking to the PA news agency afterwards, Ms Hughes said she did not feel satisfied with Mr Sunaks answer.

She said: We are very much the forgotten sector. Ive had this nursery for two years and its a constant battle, funding doesnt cover costs.

She added: Theres no pay incentive, we work horrendous hours and its just desperately trying to get any government to acknowledge us.

Asked whether she saw any offer for childcare from Labour, she said she had not looked into it fully but added: I would be inclined to vote Labour after that answer.
San Antonio Animal Care Services Director Shannon Sims speaks in his office at Animal Care Services on Monday, May 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

Shannon Sims stepped down as director of San Antonio Animal Care Services on Wednesday, earlier than he previously said he would leave.

His departure came a week after he blasted local animal welfare activists during his farewell speech to the ACS Advisory Board.

We also have the self-proclaimed social warriors that put all their time into thousands of voluminous open-records requests with a goal of smearing the organization, the employees and ultimately wasting vital resources and staff time in the hopes of finding something to discredit the team or find a text message to use as a gotcha moment, said Sims, 54.

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The San Antonio Express-News reviewed a video recording of his speech.

Recent smear campaigns have attempted discredit potential candidates for my replacement, yet none of these critics that seem to have all the answers have stepped up to try to lead the organization, he said. These individuals are no more than social media terrorists that steal thousands of hours that could be used in saving animals.

Sims didnt name any groups or individuals in his remarks. ACS routinely faces activists seeking to end animal euthanasia in shelters and others critical of the departments handling of dog bite cases and owners of dangerous canines.

ACS came under intense scrutiny after Ramon Najera, an 81-year-old Air Force veteran, was fatally mauled in a West Side neighborhood in February of last year and another man died in October from complications following a brutal dog attack at a Northeast Side trailer park.

About 3,000 dog bites are reported to ACS every year. Severe bites  defined by city ordinance as those causing death, broken bones or disfigurement  are off the charts. They rose from 110 in the 2018 fiscal year to 188 in 2022, a 70% jump.

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In the 2023 fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30, ACS recorded nearly 300 severe bites.

Previously, Sims said he would retire in June and might stay longer if his successor needed help transitioning into the role.

But a city spokesperson said Sims was scheduled to retire May 31, and that he opted to use accrued leave time ahead of that date. Assistant City Manager David McCary will be the interim ACS director while the city continues its search for a new leader to take over the citys animal control duties.

Sims, a Marines veteran, was hired as ACSs field operations manager a decade ago and appointed director in 2021 after serving as interim leader.

READ MORE: San Antonio council members want faster progress on reining in vicious dogs

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Over the past several months, he was absent at least twice because of unspecified family emergencies.

In November, Sims said his decision to retire was personal, not stemming from criticism his department had taken over its response to the recent surge in dog bite cases.

Ive spent over 30 years in public service, and Ive put my job in front of my family for 30 years, Sims said at the time. I need to re-prioritize before I have to look back someday and say, 'I wish I would have done this sooner.' And so thats really kind of the driving factor.

He did not respond to an interview request for this story.

He previously told the Express-News he would be involved in the hiring of a new director.

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City spokesman Brian Chasnoff said Sims and other stakeholders have met with the citys recruiter to weigh in on the characteristics of a successful candidate.

McCary told the ACS Advisory Board last week that more than 70 people had applied for the position. Shannon Oster-Gabrielson, assistant to the ACS director, was among the applicants, according to records obtained by the Express-News.

Chasnoff said officials interviewed nine candidates on April 30 and are still deciding who will move on to the next round of interviews.

The next director will have more funding and personnel to go after irresponsible owners of dangerous dogs.

READ MORE: San Antonio council member wants tougher penalties for owners of dangerous dogs

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Najeras death and the attention it focused on the high number of dogs attacks in San Antonio in part drove the city to boost ACSs budget for fiscal year 2024, which began Oct. 1, by 33% over the previous year. Thats the biggest funding increase by percentage that any city department received this fiscal year.

The departments budget of $28.5 million, a $7.1 million increase over last year, includes money to hire 15 additional officers, eight of whom will answer calls about aggressive dogs and ensure that owners of dogs that have been designated as dangerous are complying with city regulations.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has firmly ruled out any deals with the SNP after Julys General Election, insisting there is no way his party could work with Scottish nationalists.

Sir Keir was adamant he would not work with the SNP, even if the July 4 election fails to result in an overall majority for Labour.

His comments came as he campaigned in the Glasgow East constituency, one of the Scottish seats Labour will be hoping to win from the SNP come polling day.

Sir Keir Starmer said the only ambition of SNP  led by John Swinney  is to break up the UK (Michael Boyd/PA)

But asked if he could work with John Swinneys party in the event of a hung parliament, Sir Keir made clear there would be absolutely no deal with the SNP.

He said there would obviously be no deal in advance of the election but added there would be no deal the other side of the election, under any circumstances.

The Labour leader added: Thats not just a question of mathematics, that is because there is no way an incoming Labour government could ever work in any way with the SNP, whose only ambition is to break up the United Kingdom.

His comments came as Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar told journalists the party was hoping to have a significant cohort of MPs from north of the border after July 4.

In the last general election in 2019 Labour won just one constituency in Scotland, though recently polls have shown support for the party rising, in some cases putting support for Sir Keirs party ahead of the SNP.

Mr Sarwar, asked how many seats in Scotland the party could win this time, said: Ive got an old fashioned view, which is the more people you persuade to vote for you the more seats you win.

While he said Labour had come a long way in doing that, he said that they had still got more persuasion to do.

But the Scottish Labour leader added: We want to build a significant cohort of Scottish Labour MPs to get us over the line, to make sure we deliver a UK Labour government, but even more importantly go there to sit on the government benches, be round the table making decisions for the Scottish people.

Sir Keir meanwhile stressed he wanted his party to take every seat we are capable of winning here in Scotland.

He stressed that while the numbers really matter it was also important to him to be a leader for all parts of the UK.

He said: This is also personal. If I am privileged enough to come in and serve as the UK prime minister, I want to be the UK prime minister for the whole of the United Kingdom and that includes Scotland.

Over and above the numbers, having strong Labour representation from Scotland sitting on the government benches matters to me in terms of the way I want to govern, which is for Scotland and with Scotland.

Yes, the numbers are important, but there is something very deep about the way I see politics, which is also about the type of government we want to form.

The First Minister was later asked for his views on Mr Starmers comments on not considering a deal with the SNP.

Mr Swinney said the comment was not a great start from the Labour leader, stating it sounds like a continuation of where the Conservatives have left off.

He said: Im leading a government that is constructive that wants to engage about areas where we can advance our agenda, and I think there will be a lot of areas where, through cooperation, we can bring to an end austerity, we can secure the investment thats necessary in our public services, we can repair a fractured relationship with Europe, which is now causing such economic damage to the country.

He added that it would be good to hear from the Labour Party that theyre prepared also to engage but this kind of posturing from Keir Starmer, I dont think really helps to bring people together in common purpose, which is very much the theme of my government  to bring people together in common purpose to deliver an agenda that will benefit people in our country.
US star Sofia Richie Grainge has given birth to her first child with husband Elliot Grainge.

Richie Grainge, who is the daughter of singing superstar Lionel Richie, welcomed her newborn daughter on May 20.

The 25-year-old announced the couple have named their baby Eloise Samantha Grainge.

Sharing a black and white picture on Instagram of the couple holding the babys feet, Richie Grainge said: 5.20.24 best day of my life, adding a white love heart.

Among the famous faces sending their congratulations was Hailey Bieber, who recently announced her own pregnancy with husband Justin Bieber, and sister Nicole Richie, who joked: I now have a new favorite EG. sorry Elliot.

US star Ashley Tisdale said omg the sweetest name alongside actress Lily Collins who said omg what a name, while US pop star Katy Perry commented: Our QUEEN.

Richie Grainge, who got married to her record executive husband in a lavish French ceremony last April, announced their pregnancy news at the end of January.

She said she took a pregnancy test when she landed back in Los Angeles ahead of an Ed Sheeran concert  before sending her husband out to buy more tests when it came back faintly positive.

I found out very, very early, she previously told British Vogue magazine.

I was about four weeks pregnant. I was on a trip to Milan for fashion week, and I was going to the Prada show.

I was doing a really quick 24-hour turnaround, and I felt terrible but didnt think much of it. I thought it was jet lag.

The model said the couple shared the news with their parents when she hit the eight-week mark but kept the news quiet publicly for months.

Pregnancy is really scary and you want to protect that space, she said.

Richie Grainge said the couple were surprised when they found out they are expecting a baby girl, believing strongly it was going to be a boy.

The US star previously said she was looking forward to raising a smart, kind person and being a role model for her daughter.

A few weeks before giving birth, Richie Grainge shared a picture of her bump on Instagram, captioning it: Nine months of bliss.
Rishi Sunak was not straight with the mother of a Manchester Arena bombing victim, Sir Keir Starmer said as he promised Labour would introduce the law as a priority.

However, the Labour leader avoided making a guarantee that his party would bring it to Parliament ahead of the summer recess if he replaced the Prime Minister in Number 10.

Figen Murray, whose son Martyn Hett was among those killed in the 2017 blast, had said she felt let down after Mr Sunak told her on Wednesday that he would introduce the legislation ahead of the parliamentary break.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer speaking at the launch of Scottish Labours General Election campaign at City Facilities in Glasgow (Andrew Milligan/PA)

But the PM said his pledge over the law, which would require venues and local authorities in Britain to have training requirements and preventative plans against terror attacks, still stands.

Asked whether Labour would commit to bringing the legislation to Parliament before summer recess, Sir Keir said: Well, I dont think the Prime Minister was quite straight with Martyns mum when he met her.

I met her that day as well and I said to her, and I disclose what I said to her, because Ive asked her if its all right to do so, I said if the Prime Minister has committed to getting it through before he calls an election, Ill 100% back him on that.

If he doesnt get it through, we will do it as a priority for an incoming Labour government if we are privileged enough to come in to serve. And I said that to her on Wednesday and Ill say it again today.

Ms Murray has been campaigning for Martyns Law to be passed and met with Mr Sunak for closed-doors talks about it in the hours before he called the General Election on Wednesday.

She said the Prime Minister had given his word that it would be introduced before the summer recess, but could not promise it would be passed before the next election.

Rishi Sunak said he remains committed to Martyns Law (PA)

With Parliament prorogued and campaigning for the July 4 General Election under way, Ms Murray, said she felt misled.

But Mr Sunak said on Friday he had not deceived Ms Murray because he could still honour the commitment, telling journalists accompanying him on his whistlestop two-day tour of the four nations: I said by summer recess and that will still be possible.

The election is in the first week of July. Parliament will reconvene immediately after that, so there will still be time to bring that law in before summer recess, and thats what I remain committed to doing.

Weve done all the prep work and I had a very constructive conversation with Figen and actually I start by paying tribute, as I said to her at the time, to her bravery in the face of tragedy that happened to her family, to have then campaigned for positive change.

Martyn Hett was one of 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena bombing (family handout/PA)

Ms Murray had walked 200 miles to London to deliver a letter to the Prime Minister calling for his support for the law. She arrived on Wednesday, the seventh anniversary of her sons death.

She said on Friday: These last few days have been hard  I was exhausted after walking 200 miles from Manchester to London, I was upset by the anniversary and then I felt misled by the Prime Minister.

Its great that the PM is now saying he will support Martyns Law if elected  and I thank him for that. But Martyns Law was a commitment for the last parliament, not the next one, and I feel let down by all the promises that were made and broken.

National security is too important to be so low a priority. I hope whoever wins the next election will act immediately to make this right.
US filmmaker Morgan Spurlock has been remembered for having changed the world with his art, following his death at the age of 53.

Spurlock rose to global fame thanks to his Oscar-nominated 2004 documentary titled Super Size Me, which saw him eat McDonalds for a month to illustrate the dangers of a fast food diet.

He died on Thursday in New York peacefully surrounded by family and friends from complications of cancer, his family said in a statement given to the PA news agency.

Morgan Spurlock poses at the Los Angeles premiere of his film Super Size Me in 2004 (Mark J Terrill/AP)

It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother Morgan, Craig Spurlock said in the statement.

Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas, and generosity. The world has lost a true creative genius and a special man.

I am so proud to have worked together with him.

During his career, Spurlocks work addressed controversial subject matters including the US war in Afghanistan  titled Where In The World Is Osama Bin Laden  which saw him search for the Al-Qaeda leader who was killed in 2011.

He also tackled questions of product placement and consumer marketing in The Greatest Movie Ever Sold, and elder care and gambling in series Morgan Spurlock Inside Man.

Morgan Spurlock achieved what most artists only dream: he actually changed the world with his art. He was an amazing father, brother, friend and one of the most important and influential filmmakers of my time. My heart breaks for his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/1s4EF321Lx  Brett Morgen (@brettmorgen) May 24, 2024

Spurlock is also known for directing One Direction documentary film This Is Us in 2013.

US filmmaker Brett Morgen said his heart breaks for the family and friends of Spurlock.

Morgan Spurlock achieved what most artists only dream: he actually changed the world with his art, he said on X.

He was an amazing father, brother, friend and one of the most important and influential filmmakers of my time.

Spurlock was nominated for an Emmy in 2010 for his work as executive producer on The Simpsons: 20th Anniversary Special 0 In 3-D! On Ice!.

V v v sad to learn of the passing of Morgan Spurlock. A very talented, funny and brilliant man and a true friend to @TheSimpsons. A great loss. pic.twitter.com/lsoVLkvxQX  Al Jean (@AlJean) May 24, 2024

US producer Al Jean, known for his work on The Simpsons, described Spurlocks death as a great loss.

V v v sad to learn of the passing of Morgan Spurlock, he said on X.

A very talented, funny and brilliant man and a true friend to @TheSimpsons.

While Scottish star Dawn OPorter said Morgan was a massive inspiration to me when I started working in TV.

Sharing a post on Instagram, she said: His show Super Size Me was obviously the inspiration for my first TV show Super Slim Me.

And then one day he wrote to me and told me he loved my work. You can imagine my reaction.

We made a pilot together and it was brilliant and I loved him so much in real life.

I feel really lucky that I got up close to Morgan, to watch him work and hear his brain. I had nothing but loads of love for him and feel sad today.

Spurlock made a splash in 2004 with his groundbreaking Super Size Me documentary, and returned in 2019 with Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken! about how the fast food had rebranded itself following his first documentary.

It had been scheduled to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017, but was pulled at the height of the #MeToo movement.

It came after Spurlock acknowledged he was part of the problem confessing he had been accused of rape while in college during an encounter he thought was consensual, and had also settled a sexual harassment allegation with a female assistant.

Spurlock leaves behind his two sons Laken and Kallen, his mother Phyllis, his father Ben, brothers Craig and Barry and former spouses Alexandra Jamieson and Sara Bernstein  the mothers of his children.
Mashed potato sales have soared at a UK supermarket, with a new multi-million-pound mash factory opening to help meet demand.

Tesco said its shoppers bought one million more packs of fresh ready-made mash in 2023 than in 2022.

Branstons site near Lincoln, seen from above (Branston/ PA)

The chain said demand for fresh mash had started to rise shortly before the pandemic, but whole potatoes were more popular in lockdown when Brits had more time to cook from scratch.

However, as lockdown ended and more people returned to work, demand for fresh ready-made mash began to rise again.

Demand increased further through the cost-of-living crisis, with mash seen as an inexpensive and homely old favourite.

Tesco said it has worked with Branston, one of the UKs largest potato suppliers, on new gourmet mash recipes and that Branston has opened a new mash factory.

Mashed potato being made at Branstons new multi-million-pound mash factory near Lincoln (Andy Weekes/ Branston/ PA)

The new facility, near Lincoln, has created 80 jobs to help meet the nations appetite for the potato dish.

While Tesco said that regular mashed potato is by far its most popular variety, demand for sweet potato mash has rocketed by more than 100% in 2023 versus 2022.

Tesco prepared produce buying manager Alex Edwards said: Britains millions of mash fans should be very excited by the news as our chefs have worked with Branston to excite existing recipes.

What were planning to do is to take the mash-eating experience to the next level and make it more of a gourmet food that youd find in an upmarket restaurant.

Potatoes being harvested for Branston (Branston/ PA)

Branston has worked with Tesco food chefs to improve existing recipes, such as root veg mash where increases of parsnip, butter and seasoning aim to add a sweeter and fresher flavour with creaminess.

Branston chief executive Jim Windle said: We are proud and very excited to have brought the latest world-class food manufacturing technology alongside restaurant quality recipe design to uplift and elevate one of Britains best-loved foods.

Mash is one of Britains favourite comfort foods that needed a 21st-century makeover to delight and inspire customers across the new range.
Alec Baldwin will stand trial as scheduled in July after a US judge denied a bid to dismiss a criminal charge against him.

Hollywood actor Baldwin had previously plead not guilty to involuntary manslaughter following the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of western film Rust in October 2021.

On Friday, New Mexico Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer rejected arguments made by Baldwins lawyers for dismissing the case, finding that the grand jury process was not prejudiced against the 66-year-old actor.

Alec Baldwin will face a maximum of 18 months in prison if convicted after trial (Santa Fe County Sheriff/PA)

It is therefore ordered that defendant Alec Baldwins motion to dismiss the indictment is hereby denied, the judge wrote at the end of her ruling.

Baldwin is scheduled to face a trial from July 9, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, after a prop gun he was holding went off, killing Ms Hutchins.

The US star will face a maximum of 18 months in prison if convicted after trial.

This was the sentence Rust armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed received after a jury found her guilty of the same charge. Her defence lawyer has filed an appeal notice.

In March, Baldwins lawyers filed a motion to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter case, alleging violations of court orders and other legal faults by the prosecution in the grand jury process.

During the virtual court hearing last week, Baldwins lawyer Alex Spiro said the court needed to step in and check this abuse of power, telling the judge the court can have no comfort in this indictment.

This is a homicide case, prosecutors are required to do better than this. This indictment should be dismissed, he said.

While lead prosecutor Kari Morrissey defended her position, confirming to the judge this isnt something nefarious, and there is no bad faith here.

The defence wants somehow to try to convince the court that the actor who is holding a real gun in his hand has absolutely no responsibility for what he does with that gun, and its simply not the case, she said.

She concluded: Everything that he is saying to you right now is a complete misrepresentation about what has happened, and that is what these people do.

The judge asked several follow-up questions of Ms Morrissey, before ultimately denying the motion to dismiss the charge against Baldwin on Friday  a week after the virtual hearing.
Wagatha Christie case to return to court for hearing over costs

The so-called Wagatha Christie case is set to return to court for a hearing over legal costs.

Rebekah Vardy, 42, lost her high-profile libel claim against Coleen Rooney, 38, in July 2022 when Mrs Justice Steyn ruled that Mrs Rooneys viral social media post accusing Mrs Vardy of leaking her private information to the press was substantially true.

In an order from October the same year, the judge ruled that Mrs Vardy should pay 90% of Mrs Rooneys costs.

Mrs Rooney, the wife of former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, incurred total costs of more than 2 million but 350,000 of those had been racked up before the trial in May.

Mrs Vardy, who is married to Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy, was ordered to pay 800,000 of the costs bill that November.

However, this was not Mrs Rooneys final total costs bill and the case is set to return to the High Court in London for a hearing before a specialist costs judge.

These judges assess the costs and expenses incurred during civil cases and rule on how much successful parties can recover, and can reduce the costs if needed or if they are deemed to be unreasonable.

In the viral social media post in October 2019 at the heart of the libel claim, Mrs Rooney said she had carried out a months-long sting operation and accused Mrs Vardy of leaking information about her private life to the press.

Mrs Rooney publicly claimed Mrs Vardys account was the source behind three stories in The Sun newspaper featuring fake details she had posted on her private Instagram profile  featuring her travelling to Mexico for a gender selection procedure, her planning to return to TV, and the basement flooding at her home.

Following the high-profile trial, Mrs Justice Steyn ruled in Mrs Rooneys favour, finding it was likely that Mrs Vardys former agent Caroline Watt had passed information to The Sun and that she knew of and condoned this behaviour.

The judge added that Mrs Vardy had actively engaged, directing Ms Watt to the private Instagram account, sending her screenshots of Mrs Rooneys posts, drawing attention to items of potential interest to the press, and answering additional queries raised by the press via Ms Watt.

The hearing on Tuesday before Senior Costs Judge Andrew Gordon-Saker is due to begin at 10.30am.
WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden pushed off criticism that he was dragging in Kenya to take on the Haitian gang crisis saying the U.S. wanted to do "all we can" without looking like America is calling all the shots on the neighboring island.

Haiti is in an area of the Caribbean Sea that is "very volatile," and the U.S. does not want to come off as heavy handed, Biden said at a news conference on Thursday alongside Kenya's president after a journalist accused him of "committing" the African nation to a foreign conflict.

Plans have been in the works since October for Kenya to lead a U.N.-backed, multi-national police force to fight powerful gangs who control large parts of the Haiti's capital and the surrounding region.

The Biden administration has said it will not send U.S. troops to help Haitian authorities tackle the deepening crisis.

"There's a lot going on in this hemisphere, and we're in a situation where we want to do all we can without us looking like America once again is stepping over, deciding this is what must be done," Biden said. "Haitians are looking for help as well as the folks in the Caribbean are looking for help. And so, we checked out with a number of other countries."

President Joe Biden and President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya shake hands after a joint press conference during President Rutos State Visit to the United States on May 23, 2024 at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Kenya answered the call, Biden indicated.

He appeared to mistakenly refer to the nation as Haiti as he told a journalist from Kenya: "We committed to provide the wherewithal, the intelligence and equipment and the like to Haiti, and so it's a logical thing. And you have a first-rate capability, and you keep your word. That's an important dynamic," he said.

After clearing a series of hurdles, Kenya said it would send 1,000 police officers. They still have not arrived.

Kenyan President William Ruto said Thursday at the news conference with Biden in Washington that his country was leading the mission, which has significant financial backing from the U.S., through its own structure and with the support of its parliament.

"We don't find that the U.S. is committing Kenya, because the U.S. cannot commit Kenya," Ruto said. "I am the president of Kenya. It's me to make that decision."

Kenya has been involved in peacekeeping over the last 40 years in 47 countries, including "very difficult neighborhoods" like what it will experience in Haiti, he said at another point.

Ruto said that Kenya believes "that the responsibility of peace and security anywhere in the world, including in Haiti, is the collective responsibility of all nations and all peoples" who believe in freedom, democracy and justice.

The visiting leader thanked the U.S. for stepping in with humanitarian support. "The rest of us are committing troops, we are... deploying our infrastructure," he said.

Biden's approach to Haiti has been under a microscope this week. Ahead of the Kenyan prime minister's visit to Washington, Republicans opposed to the intervention chastised the Biden administration in a letter. And at a hearing this week, the top Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee, confronted Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the topic.

Blinken warned on Tuesday, "Haiti is on the precipice of becoming an all-out failed state."

While he said he understands "some of the skepticism that exists about another mission in Haiti," the Biden official said the U.S. sees positive signs, including the formation of a Transitional Presidential Council and a related effort to establish a clear pathway to elections.

President Joe Biden and President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya (not pictured) hold a joint press conference during President Rutos State Visit to the United States on May 23, 2024 at the White House in Washington, D.C.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden says US doing 'all we can' to help Haiti without overstepping
Japanese competitive eater Takeru Kobayashi, the six-time Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest champion, has announced his retirement from the sport due to rising health concerns.

"Ive decided to retire from competitive eating. Its all I've done for the last 20 years," Kobayashi, 46, announced in Netflix's "Hack Your Health - The Secrets of Your Gut," a documentary film that explores how food, the digestive system and gut health relates to overall well-being.

Kobayashi said decades of overeating for sport has left him with no appetite or no sensation of fullness, which his wife Maggie James said has caused Kobayashi to go days without eating anything at all.

Six-time champion Takeru Kobayashi of Japan takes part in the 2006 Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest.

MORE FIT THAN FAT: Should competitive eaters be considered athletes?

James said her husband feels his body is "broken."

"I hear people say theyre hungry, and they look very happy after theyve eaten. Im jealous of those people because I no longer feel hunger," Kobayashi said in the documentary. "I hope to live a long and healthy life."

Takeru Kobayashi: 'I've eaten 10,000 hot dogs' in career

Kobayashi jumpstarted his career in 2000 during an appearance on the Japanese variety show "TV Champion," where he consumed 16 bowls of ramen in one hour. He set a world record at the 2001 Nathan's Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Contest, held annually on July 4, by eating 50 hot dogs in 12 minutes. (The previous record at the time was 25 hot dogs). He won the Mustard Yellow Belt six consecutive years from 2001 to 2006.

"I'm sure that I've eaten 10,000 hot dogs since the beginning of my career," Kobayashi said in the film.

Kobayashi does not just eat hot dogs. He's held world records over his career with different foods, ranging from Buffalo wings, lobster rolls and cow brains to hamburgers, tacos and pizza. The list goes on.

"I am Japanese but I've eaten like an American. I think that's what damaged my body," he said. "I overeat because Im a competitive eater. ... When you eat too much, you dont savor the taste or fully enjoy the smell of the food. You ignore you bodys signals, like fullness."

In order to prepare for competitions, Kobayashi said he would spend months expanding his stomach with food.

"You have to gradually build up your gut by eating larger and larger amounts of food, and then be sure to work it all off so body fat doesn't put a squeeze on the expansion of your stomach in competition. I start my regimen about two months before a big competition," he said in 2004.

Kobayashi's brain affected by competitive eating

Kobayashi underwent multiple tests during the documentary to diagnose his lack of appetite and reduced sense of smell. Doctors and scientists determined that Kobayashi's chronic overeating has affected his nervous system and that his brain is still trained to think he's competing or eating highly processed foods, despite stepping away from competition.

"I used to crave cakes and curries when I was little. I don't feel that joy about eating anymore," he said. "Its scary to think that the brain and gut are so closely related. It makes me want to be more careful with what I eat."

Although Kobayashi won't be competing at Coney Island on the Fourth of July anymore, he's not giving up hot dogs completely. Kobayashi said he's on a mission to "create a healthier hot dog" that features traditional Japanese ingredients.

"Whats influenced me more than competitive eating is the hot dog," he said. "I am worried about what my next step will bring, but I am also excited about my future."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Competitive eater Takeru Kobayashi retires due to health concerns
Senate Democrats say a new revelation that an Appeal to Heaven flag, a symbol adopted by Jan. 6 protesters, flew at Justice Samuel Alitos beach house is the latest troubling sign that the conservative-leaning Supreme Court is out of control and pushing a partisan agenda.

Democrats say its the latest indication that Alito and Justice Clarence Thomas, another conservative on the court, have cast aside decorum and judicial ethics and have let their personal views and friendships reign over any sense of obligation to avoid the appearance of bias or political favor.

We have an out-of-control Supreme Court majority, said Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, voicing a sentiment shared by other Democrats.

Democrats say the latest evidence of Alitos personal political views comes on top of bombshell reports published by ProPublica last year that he and Thomas accepted tens of thousands of dollars in gifts from wealthy conservatives who either had business directly before the Supreme Court or who stood to benefit generally from the courts decisions.

Frustration with the court in the sense that it is illegitimate is extremely high, said Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), who just met with constituents in nine different counties last weekend.

Compared to 20 years ago, you never really heard about that as an issue. There was a sense that the courts above politics, theyre calling the balls and strikes, and thats completely gone, he said. Its been so accentuated by recent events.

A Thursday report by The New York Times that a white flag with a green pine tree, which has become a symbol of Christian-minded government, flew outside Alitos vacation house in 2023 sparked new alarm among Democrats.

These Democrats increasingly see the high court as becoming brazenly political.

Just days earlier, the Times had reported that an upside-down American flag  a symbol of the Stop the Steal movement  was displayed at Alitos home after the 2020 election, which prompted angry Democrats to call on Alito to recuse himself from a pending Supreme Court decision about whether former President Trump should be immune from federal prosecution.

Merkley said the stories about the flags will fuel calls to reform the Supreme Court, either by expanding the number of justices or rotating justices to preserve the courts ideological balance. He also cited the courts failure to adopt a binding ethics code after reports of Alito and Thomas accepting lavish gifts from wealthy conservative benefactors.

Is there increasing political momentum towards reforming the court? Absolutely yes, he said.

News of the Appeal to Heaven flag hit some senators on the same day the Supreme Court handed down a 6-3 ruling to allow South Carolina to keep in place a congressional map that a lower court had deemed an unconstitutional racial gerrymander.

Alito told the Times that his wife hoisted the inverted American flag on his lawn after getting in a dispute with a neighbor who had displayed an anti-Trump sign on their property.

But news of the Appeal to Heaven flag, which pro-Trump protesters waved on the East Front of the Capitol on the same day they overran Capitol police to stop the certification of President Bidens 2020 electoral victory, has Democrats doubting that the upside-down flag incident at Alitos home was a one-off occurrence.

The first instance of the American flag in distress mode [Alito] dismissed as a chance indiscretion by his wife who was emotional about a confrontation with a neighbor. The second one really shows a pattern, Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) said.

This is not a chance indiscretion. This is a conscious decision by the Alito family to advertise their political feelings. That doesnt help the Supreme Court one whit, and he ought to accept the responsibility of recusing himself from cases involving the Trump administration, Durbin said, alluding to the appeal the Supreme Court is now considering on whether Trump should be immune to prosecution for any crimes involving official acts.

Durbin called on Alito to recuse himself last week after he learned of the inverted flag flying at his home.

He said Thursday that the second flag incident demands a response by Congress and insisted that Supreme Court ethics legislation should come to the Senate floor this year.

That is a must, he said. It should be called. We should at least establish an ethical standard and a standard for recusal.

Durbin is pushing for a vote on the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal and Transparency Act, which would require Supreme Court justices to adopt a binding code of conduct and set up a mechanism to investigate alleged violations of that code or other laws.

Just terrible

Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) called the latest flag incident just terrible.

His responsibility as a Supreme Court justice is to be able to make decisions without fear or favor, with no favoritism. And yet hes flying flags that clearly are signaling to somebody that he thinks the election was stolen. He should immediately recuse himself, she said. We have to look at this.

Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) said he was disturbed by the sense that Alito or someone close to him appeared to be advocating for more religiosity in government by flying flags embraced by Christian nationalists.

A Supreme Court justice has a special obligation to avoid the appearance of any kind of bias, and I think hes already failed on that count. And second, the Constitution provides that the government shall not establish any official religion, he added.

Not only is he comfortable with religion in government, hes comfortable with a very specific kind of religiosity. Its worrisome, Schatz said. Hes just behaving like a partisan, and a lot of us come to that conclusion with regret and dont want to be the kinds of members of Congress that are constantly throwing barbs at conservative justices, but hes crossed a couple of lines here.

Even prominent Senate Republicans criticized the display of an upside-down Stars and Stripes as not good judgment and unwise.

Its not good judgment to do that. He said his wife was insulted and got mad. I assume that to be true, but hes still a Supreme Court justice, and people have to realize [at] moments like that to think it through, Sen. Lindsey Graham (S.C.), the top-ranking Republican on the Judiciary Committee, told reporters Monday.

Graham said he was less disturbed by the historical Appeal to Heaven flag, which dates back to the Revolutionary War.

Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) wasnt aware of the report of the Appeal to Heaven flag at Alitos beach house but said flying an upside-down American flag is not appropriate.

Im not an expert in judicial ethics, but it strikes me as unwise for the upside-down American flag to be flown at his house, she said.

Some Republicans, notably Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.), have rallied to Alitos defense by calling on Democrats to stop criticizing the court.

Asked about the inverted flag at Alitos home, McConnell told reporters Tuesday, It seems to me there are just nonstop attacks on the Supreme Court, week after week after week. So Im not going to dignify that with a response.

We need to leave the Supreme Court alone, protect them from people who went into their neighborhoods and tried to do them harm, he said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
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.
The judge in Hunter Bidens gun case issued a series of pretrial rulings Friday, handing wins to both sides and setting the contours of the upcoming trial.

Federal Judge Maryellen Noreika sided with prosecutors on a key question about what they need to prove about Bidens drug use when he bought a gun in 2018.

To win a conviction, she said theyll need to show that he was generally using drugs at the time, and not that he specifically used drugs on the day he bought the gun. Biden has advocated for the narrower scope of the law to be applied.

But she also decided to allow Bidens lawyers to challenge the authenticity of specific texts from his infamous laptop that will be presented to the jury by special counsel David Weiss team.

Bidens lawyers maintain that there are serious questions about the legitimacy of the material. Prosecutors said in court that they only want to introduce a small slice of the laptop material at trial.

What were using from the laptop are messages that will be corroborated by a witness who will testify that she sent those messages, prosecutor Derek Hines said. This isnt some vast array of messages.

The issues were among the more than a dozen questions before the judge at Fridays hearing about what evidence could come in during the trial, which will begin June 3. Biden was present at the hearing, as was Weiss.

The presidents son faces three charges in the case brought by the special counsel in Delaware. Prosecutors accuse Biden of buying and possessing a firearm while addicted to illegal drugs, which is a violation of federal law, and of lying on a form he submitted during the purchase about his drug use. Biden has pleaded not guilty.

Lawyers said the trial could last up to two weeks, including jury selection, with the potential to go longer.

Biden recently secured a delay in a separate, tax-evasion trial he is facing from the special counsels investigation in California, which was originally slated for late June but is now expected to kick off in September.

Dispute over ATF forms

The parties also tussled over the forms from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives that were filled out when Biden bought the revolver in a Wilmington gun shop in October 2018.

The forms are a key piece of evidence because Biden is charged with making a false statement by checking a box that said he wasnt using illegal drugs. Thats one of the boilerplate questions on the form that every gun buyer is required to fill out.

But some credibility issues have emerged about the forms and the staff at the gun store, who are expected to be called as witnesses by Weiss.

There are apparently two versions of the form involving Biden: The initial version that was emailed to the ATF not long after the purchase, and a paper copy that contains additional written information that the gun store staff added a couple years later.

They tampered with it, Bidens attorney Abbe Lowell said Friday, noting that the employees added details about how they verified Bidens identity in order to comply with federal law.

At the time of the purchase, the store verified Bidens identity by using his passport. They later added information about his car registration.

They accepted an ID that they shouldnt have accepted, Lowell said, and now the government is giving them a break by offering them some immunity so they can testify against Biden.

The judge didnt issue any decisions Friday on the matter. Prosecutors have asked her to exclude the second, altered form from the trial altogether.

Questions looming if Biden takes the stand

There was minimal disagreement between prosecutors and the defense team on many of the 13 motions Noreika was considering Friday about what arguments a jury could hear.

They generally agreed that Biden could not bring up claims that the prosecution violated the Second Amendment and that information from his failed plea deal  and the July 2023 hearing where that agreement fell apart  should, in most circumstances, not come into the trial. The judge also granted Bidens request that the paternity case he faced in Arkansas be excluded, as should his 2014 discharge from the Navy over a drug incident. She also limited what references prosecutors could make at trial to his lavish spending habits at the time of the gun purchase, narrowing such evidence to spending connected to drug use.

She sided with Biden on whether prosecutors could refer to the tax charges.

There shall be no reference to the tax case, the judge said.

However, the judge granted those requests with the caveat that she may need to revisit the questions about what a jury can hear if Biden decides to take the stand. His attorneys have not said whether the defendant will testify, and such a decision is usually not announced until the trial is well underway.

A number of issues may become more contested if Biden testifies, Noreika said.

This story has been updated with additional details.

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Lawmakers in both parties are racing against the clock to secure a bipartisan bill to sanction International Criminal Court (ICC) officials after they filed requests for arrest warrants for top Israeli leaders, hoping a forceful bipartisan response from Washington will deter the courts judges from ratifying the charges in the coming weeks.

Congress left Washington on Thursday for a long holiday recess without reaching a bipartisan agreement on exactly how to push back against the ICCs claims that Israeli leaders have committed war crimes in their fight with Hamas in Gaza. But top House negotiators are vowing to solidify a deal and move on it immediately when lawmakers return to Capitol Hill in the first week of June  a timeline they predicted will put passage of the bill ahead of the ICC judges decision.

This is really for deterrence purposes, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul (R-Texas), whos leading the talks, said Thursday. A deterrent to approve the arrest warrant application.

McCaul wants the committee to mark up the legislation on June 3, the first day lawmakers are due back in Washington, and he noted that hearings are typically noticed one week in advance, meaning negotiators have only a few days to unveil the legislation.

The Foreign Affairs chair emphasized a number of times that he wants the ICC bill to be bipartisan and bicameral, a departure from other Israel-related measures spearheaded by Republicans in recent weeks that have been written in a way to divide the Democratic caucus, where pro-Israel lawmakers have been at odds with pro-Palestinian progressives up in arms about the mounting humanitarian deaths in Gaza.

We want something that can become law. Were not really interested in a messaging bill, McCaul said. It has to be bipartisan.

Otherwise, he later added, you have no deterrence against the ICC.

Rep. Gregory Meeks (N.Y.), senior Democrat on the Foreign Affairs Committee, is leading the talks for House Democrats. Like McCaul, hes stressing the importance of securing bipartisan backing to send the message that Congress is overwhelmingly opposed to the ICCs determination that Israeli leaders have committed crimes against humanity in their battle with Hamas militants.

Its important for Israel right now for bills to come out of our committee which are bipartisan, Meeks said, as opposed to trying to come out with partisan bills with the intent of trying to divide the United States Congress. I think thats the wrong message for Israel, and its the wrong message for the rest of the world.

Outside of the House, support for ICC sanctions is growing. McCaul said hes in direct talks with several senators, including Sens. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).

Im trying to flush out with Meeks and Cardin on  what are your issues? So we can work it out, McCaul said.

Hes also been in touch with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is open to the concept of sanctions against ICC officials.

That decision, as you said, on so many levels is totally wrongheaded. And well be happy to work with Congress, with this committee, on an appropriate response, Blinken said during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing.

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan announced Monday he was filing arrest warrant applications for two top Israeli officials  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant  and Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh, alleging they bear criminal responsibility for a list of war crimes since Oct. 7, when Hamas launched a terrorist attack against Israel, sparking the fierce fighting in Gaza.

Republicans were quick to blast the arrest warrant requests, with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) calling the move baseless and illegitimate and vowing penalties for the international court.

Democrats have been more divided. A number of liberals, including prominent figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), have praised the ICC for its effort to enforce international humanitarian laws, regardless of who violates them.

Whether its Putins war crimes in Ukraine, Hamass barbaric terrorism in Israel, or Netanyahus use of starvation as a weapon of war  no one is above the law, Sanders said.

Yet the vast majority of Democrats appear to be lining up in opposition to the ICC charges, which President Biden has condemned as outrageous. Those voices are blasting the international court for equating the wartime actions of Israel, a democratic state, with Hamas, a terrorist group. And other Democratic leaders, while no fans of the conservative Netanyahu, have echoed those criticisms.

While neither the United States nor Israel has signed on to the ICCs charter, Israels allies on Capitol Hill maintain that the sanctions are nonetheless a crucial counterweight to the courts allegations  if only to send a formal message of opposition.

The first message has to be how absurd the prosecutor who pressed for an indictment is, and the false equivalency  the reprehensible false equivalency  of equating Israel with Hamas, said Rep. Brad Schneider, a Jewish Illinois Democrat and staunch Israel ally.

The sanctions, he added, should match and have a real bite.

Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) introduced an ICC sanctions bill earlier this month, after reports surfaced that the court was eyeing arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other top Israeli officials. His proposal would impose sanctions on the ICC for engaging in an effort to arrest any protected person of the United States and its allies. It has more than 60 GOP co-sponsors.

McCaul said Roys bill would have to be tweaked in order to win bipartisan support. Democrats, he noted, are demanding that the president be granted the authority to waive certain sanctions unilaterally  a provision Roy is ready to accommodate, with some limitations.

I do not support a broad, just blanket, presidential waiver, Roy said.

He noted, however, that negotiators have language that were working on right now, calling it a variation.

As lawmakers hash out the details behind the scenes, Republican leaders are vowing to take action against the ICC  and are not mincing their words in forecasting those moves.

This is a rogue agency, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) said Wednesday. I know this majority has taken many steps against it. Were going to continue to take actions.

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More than 100 people are feared dead in a remote village in the Pacific nation of Papua New Guinea after a landslide flattened homes and buried people alive while they were sleeping, officials said Friday.

The disaster hit the village of Kaokalam in Enga Province, about 600 kilometers (372 miles) northwest of the capital, Port Moresby, at about 3 a.m. local time (1 p.m. ET, Thursday).

The remoteness of the affected village, home to nearly 4,000 people, is hindering rescue efforts, according to the Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the country.

The debris is as big as approximately three to four football fields, and is blocking the lifeline of the provinces main highway, which is making the relief efforts all the more difficult, Serhan Aktoprak told CNN.

Its already dark. Its already night time in Papua New Guinea. Theres no power to continue the relief efforts. Only with sunrise will the [IOM] teams be returning, Aktoprak said.

He added that three bodies had so far been recovered, but the death toll is likely to increase because of the size of the landslide.

The number of people killed or missing is very fluid, but more than 100 are believed to be dead, Janet Philemon, Caretaker and National Treasurer of the Papua New Guinea Red Crescent Society (PNGRCS), told CNN.

The local community has been scrambling to reach survivors with whatever tools they have at their disposal, Philemon said.

The community themselves are responding, trying to bring out and uncover those that have been buried under the landslide, she added.

She said that an earthquake had hit the area a few days prior, which she believed could have contributed to the cause of the landslide.

Footage of the aftermath carried by AFP showed a wide scar of mud and rocks on a steep mountainside slope and locals clambering to look for survivors.

Rescuers are trying to reach the remote village in Enga Province. - AFP/Getty Images

Prime Minister James Marape said in an earlier statement, reported by the ABC and Reuters, that his government had sent officials from the countrys disaster agency, defence force, and Department of Works and Highways to meet Engas provincial and district authorities, and carry out the rescue and relief efforts, as well as the reconstruction of infrastructure.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the landslide disaster, he said,

In comments reported by the ABC, officials said houses were flattened when the side of a nearby mountain gave way.

CNN has reached out to local authorities, including Ipatas, as well as the national police and the countrys disaster management agency.

A Pacific nation home to around 10 million people, Papua New Guinea is rich in resources, but its economy has long trailed those of its neighbors, and it has one of the highest crime rates in the world.

Violence remains widespread. Chaos erupted in the capital earlier this year after police walked off the job in protest over a drop in their pay, which government officials later blamed on a computer glitch in the payroll system. Shops were looted and buildings set on fire during the disturbance.

Hundreds of tribes are spread across the countrys remote and often inaccessible terrain. But its vast and diverse mountainous landscape, as well as a lack of roads, has made it difficult and costly to upgrade basic services like water, electricity and sanitation.

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People take photos of Medusa Beach Club on Palma Beach after the building collapsed - JAIME REINA/AFP

Smiling tourists were seen posing for photographs outside a destroyed Spanish beach club which locals say may have collapsed partly because of overtourism.

Two German tourists and two local workers died on Thursday night when the rooftop area of the Medusa Beach Club collapsed onto diners eating and drinking on floors below.

According to the Balearic Islands emergency service coordinator, seven other people are in hospital with severe injuries and nine more are described as being seriously injured.

Medusa Beach Club on Wednesday announced it had renovated its rooftop restaurant in an Instagram post.

It shared a picture of the terrace on social media with a glass balcony looking over Palmas beach with the caption Totally different, New rooftop.

A picture of the new rooftop was shared on the Medusa Beach Club's Instagram page

The chief of planning at Palma city council said an investigation has been opened to determine whether the nightclub had operated with the necessary permits and if there had been a recent renovation that may have required legal approval.

It appears that part of the structure of the rooftop terrace collapsed because of excess weight. According to Eder Garcia, Palmas fire service chief, the supporting structure of the terrace gave way and crashed down onto diners below.

Emergency workers assess the building following the collapse - Emergency workers assess the building following the collapse

Police officers work at the scene - JAIME REINA/AFP

Spaniards expressed anger at the tragedy and blamed a lack of control over building in the popular tourism area.

Economist Maria Jose Duenas said: This is what happens when toxic touristification, greedy hoteliers take over entire cities/areas.

The floor of the Medusa Beach Club restaurant has collapsed due to excess capacity, there are four dead and dozens injured. Neither security nor urban regulations, everything is speculation.

Spaniards blame a lack of control over building in the Palma beach area - JAIME REINA/AFP

Francisco Nogales, chairman of the Palma Beach residents association, told reporters on Friday: We knew something like this could happen.

These buildings are between 80 and 90 years old, inspections are not carried out and their condition deteriorates, so they need to be reinforced to be able to carry out these type of activities.

Mr Garci said of the collapse: Investigations are still ongoing, but everything points to a combination of an outdated structure and excess weight.

A police spokesman agreed that the terrace came down because of excessive weight.

Mariama Syll, 23, a Spanish waitress at the beach club was killed in the collapse.

Also killed was 44-year-old Abdoulaye Diop, a man of Senegalese origin who is reported to have worked in the Palma Beach area as a nightclub doorman.

The other two dead are reported to be female friends aged 20 and 30 who were on holiday together from Germany.

Diop became a local hero after he and a friend rescued a man drowning in the sea off Palma Beach seven years ago.

Abdoulaye Diop died in the incident - ASA/GC/SM

It was two degrees and the water was freezing but when you see a person in that situation you act without thinking to save their life, Diop said, he told a local newspaper in 2017.

Those near the beachfront restaurant and bar at the time of the collapse say that they heard a loud bang just after 8pm on Thursday as the rooftop structure gave way. According to reports the venue was busy at the time of collapse with some customers dancing on the upstairs terrace.

The rooftop space fell directly onto the ground floor of the restaurant, causing a further collapse of the structure downwards into the buildings basement and crushing customers.

Emergency teams including firefighters, ambulances and police arrived quickly at the scene of the collapse and began to remove the dead and injured from the rubble.

No explanation has yet been given for the collapse - Cati Cladera/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Local police asked bystanders to move away and to remain silent as rescue workers worked into the night in the search for more people buried under the rubble.

Palma Beach is a lively resort area that is especially popular with German tourists.

Palma city council has declared three days of official mourning for the dead.

Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish prime minister, offered his condolences to the families of the dead and sent best wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.

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Nicole Brown Simpson's sisters say she spent the majority of her marriage to O.J. Simpson smiling to mask the pain of verbal and physical abuse

Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images Nicole Brown Simpson

Nicole Brown Simpson's ex-husband, O.J. Simpson verbally and physically abused her for the majority of their seven-year marriage, yet she did what many mistreated women do: she stayed.

I thought they were isolated incidences, Nicoles sister Denise Brown, 66, exclusively tells PEOPLE in this weeks issue. "The next day Nicole would be back, like, Oh, everythings okay. We talked about it. It was my fault.

In an upcoming Lifetime documentary series titled The Life & Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson, airing over two nights on June 1 and June 2, the Brown sisters recount an incident during a family vacation in Hawaii when O.J. assaulted Nicole after a gay restaurant patron at a neighboring table kissed their baby son Justin on the forehead.

He was controlling but appeared generous, sister Dominique, 59, says of her sisters then-husband, from whom she filed for divorce in 1992. Nicole and O.J. also share daughter Sydney, now 38, and son Justin, now 35, who were upstairs sleeping at their mothers Los Angeles home at the time of her brutal murder on June 12, 1994.

Related: How Nicole Brown Simpson's Mother Told Her Children, then 8 and 5, She Was Dead: 'Mommys in Heaven' (Exclusive)

Ron Davis/Getty O.J. Simpson, Nicole Brown Simpson with their two children, Sydney and Justin, in March 1994.

I think she thought that everything would be different having a child, says Dominique. In reality O.J. only became more volatile. She was pregnant, and he was calling her a fat pig, Denise recalls.

Nicoles other sister Tanya, 54, says she only learned the extent of O.J.s violence during his trial for the murder of her sister and Nicoles friend Ron Goldman. I was looking at the pictures, and then I looked at him, and I remember saying, How can you do something like this to someone you love?  (The pictures of Nicoles bruised face shown in court were taken by Denise in 1989.)

Nicole Brown Simpson's People Magazine cover in 1995.

Similarly, Denise said she did not know anything about domestic violence until after Nicole's murder and then took time to learn more about it.

"That's why I think education is so important when it comes to domestic violence, the power and control of one human being over another," she says. "You need to let people know when something like this is happening. And there's so much shame involved in domestic violence, but what people have to understand is they have to be supportive."

O.J. was ultimately acquitted of the murders in the so-called Trial of the Century. He was later found liable in a lawsuit filed by the Brown and Goldman families in 1997 and later served jail time for separate crimes unrelated to the case. He died from cancer in April.

Related: Nicole Brown Simpsons Sisters Break Their Silence Over O.J.s Death: 'Its Very Complicated' (Exclusive)

Denise says that while Nicole's murder prompted change, she is saddened that it was accompanied by tragedy.

Ken LUBAS/AFP/Getty Denise Brown testified about O.J. Simpson's violent behavior on Feb. 6, 1995.

The Violence Against Women Act was passed due to Nicoles murder, she tells PEOPLE. She is the root behind a lot of change. Unfortunately it took my sisters life to make it happen.

For more on the life of Nicole Brown Simpson, as shared by her three sisters, subscribe now to PEOPLE, or pick up this week's issue, on newsstands Friday.

Lifetime's upcoming project is said to explore Nicole's perspective and experience with domestic violence. The project falls under the network's Stop Violence Against Women initiative.

Roger Sandler Officers at Nicoles home, where she and Ron Goldman were stabbed to death on June 12, 1994.

It will feature interviews with 50 people, including Nicole's sisters, other family members and friends, as well as never-before-seen footage of her.

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.

The Life & Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson airs over two nights on June 1 and June 2 on Lifetime.



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Mohammad Zarqa trembled with fear as he watched panicked crowds of people, screaming and covered in blood, rush into his small village on the outskirts of Jerusalem.

You have to run, he remembers a woman crying out, shocking Zarqa out of a daze and sending him racing home to warn his family. He was only 12 years old at the time, unaware of the looming war that would soon upend his life.

It was April 9, 1948, and Jewish militias had just attacked Deir Yassin, a village about a mile northeast of Zarqas home in Ein Karem in what was then the British Mandate of Palestine. At least 100 people, including women and children, were killed  many stripped, lined up and shot with automatic fire, according to reports from the time archived by the United Nations.

The massacre is among the events that led to al-Nakba, or the catastrophe, when roughly 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled from their homes by armed Jewish groups seeking to establish the state of Israel.

A mass grave where more than 100 victims of the Deir Yassin massacre were buried in April 1948. The round stone ring is a mass grave for women and the square one is for men. - AP

We thought we were going to be next, Zarqa, now 88, tells CNN from his home in New Jersey. My father said, We cannot stay here. Theyre going to come and massacre us. We had nothing, no weapons, nothing to defend ourselves. Thats the day we became refugees.

On Wednesday, Zarqa joins millions of Palestinians across the world to mark Nakba Day with protests and community events intended to honor the memory of the Palestinians killed and displaced in 1948 and the brutal war unfolding today in Gaza.

Part of that commemoration includes a commitment to storytelling, Zarqa says, whereby survivors of the Nakba generation continue to share their experiences with younger Palestinians so the dream of liberation and return never dies. He believes its the only way to understand the current war and work toward a just and lasting peace in the region.

My heart is bleeding, he says softly. At my age, Im still dreaming of going back home. Palestine is something that is still implanted in my heart and my body. Its where I was born. Its where I have my memories. Its my country.

Yearning for home

Zarqa, along with his parents and six siblings, fled Ein Karem on foot, taking very little with them. They walked from village to village, searching for food and sheltering in the homes and garages of kind strangers. The atrocities he witnessed along the way are seared in his memory.

I saw the most horrific things in my life: women coming in with torn clothes and uncovered heads crying, screaming, saying that the Jews  they werent called Israelis at the time  attacked their village and massacred everybody, Zarqa says.

Mohammad Zarqa proudly shows off his grape vines at his home garden in New Jersey. - Courtesy Jenan Matari

More than 15,000 Palestinians were killed and 531 towns and villages destroyed during al-Nakba, according to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics, an institute of the Palestinian Authority.

Jewish leaders declared independence and the creation of the state of Israel on May 14, sparking a military response from Egypt, Syria and Jordan. The family hoped the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, as it would come to be known, would end in a swift victory for the Arabs.

After several weeks, Zarqas family returned to Ein Karem. But when they entered the village, they found it had been ransacked and its residents cast out by Jewish militias, Zarqa says.

With nothing left to salvage, they fled to Jordan to wait out the war, he recalls.

Israeli students on their way to school in Ein Karem circa 1955. The buildings on the right show damage dating from the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. - George Pickow/Three Lions/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

The family initially lived in squalor, surviving off the generosity of strangers and local mosques. They shared a home with other Palestinian refugees in Jabal Al Weibdeh, a neighborhood in Amman, Zarqa says. It had a dirt floor and there were no windows, doors or bathrooms. They often couldnt shower for months at a time.

By March 1949, Israel had won the war and forbidden the hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees who had fled or were expelled from returning to their homes and ancestral lands. Zarqas family was among them.

The family began to build a new life in Jordan, one marked by struggle and poverty, as they patiently waited for permission to return to Ein Karem. But it never came, and decades later Zarqa found himself living in the United States  even further from his homeland  trying to raise a small family of his own.

We made a life in the US, but this still isnt home. You never forget that you had a house and somebody kicked you out of it, Zarqa says. We will never stop wanting to return.

A responsibility to teach

Neither time nor distance has blurred Zarqas memories of Palestine. He has passed onto his four children and eight grandchildren every bittersweet memory of Ein Karem, from its acres of orchards to the hilltop where he could see the mountains and Mediterranean sea in the distance.

Zarqa remembers Ein Karem so vividly that despite his decades of absence, he was able to give his grandson, Zach Matari, who visited the village in 2019, directions over FaceTime to his old home, now in present-day Israel. An Israeli family is living there.

I remember every inch of my village. If you go there I can tell you there was this apricot tree here, and there was a fig tree there, and thats the stairs we used to climb, he says.

Jenan Matari, another one of his grandchildren, is a writer and social media influencer who uses her platform to educate followers about Palestinian history, culture and current events, including the war in Gaza.

Mohammad Zarqa and his granddaughter Jenan Matari at her wedding henna in 2017. - Courtesy Shorouq Matari

She loves listening to her grandfathers stories and says her work, which is rooted in his Nakba experience, is a form of resistance. All Palestinians in the diaspora, she says, should use their voices too.

I get really sad for my grandfather, because if Im feeling triggered by the things that are happening in Gaza, and Im feeling this depleted and in so much pain watching this, I can only imagine what its doing to him and his generation to watch what they lived through happening again, but on an even greater scale, Matari, 33, tells CNN.

Talking about al-Nakba isnt easy, Zarqa confesses. He often pauses mid-sentence or changes the subject when it hurts a bit too much. But he refuses to be silenced by his grief and even invites other Nakba survivors to his home to share their experiences with family, friends and the wider community

Dawud Assad, one of those survivors, lives just 10 miles away. He narrowly survived the Deir Yassin massacre, which he says claimed the lives of 47 family members, including his grandmother and 2-year-old brother.

Dawud Assad, a survivor of the Deir Yassin massacre, celebrates his birthday at his home in New Jersey. - Courtesy Jenan Matari

I was supposed to be dead, says Assad, who is now 92 and nicknamed Al-shaheed Al-hay, or the living martyr. Assad survived by hiding in a shallow trench near his home, crouching and quietly praying for mercy as bullets grazed his hair.

It did not begin on October 7. What we went through is exactly what were seeing now in Gaza and Rafah, Assad says, referring to Israels ongoing war there. Videos of dead children are especially triggering because they remind him of his slain brother.

Israel launched its war in Gaza after Hamas brutal attack in Israel on October 7, in which 1,200 people were killed and hundreds of others taken hostage, Israeli officials say.

In the seven months since that attack, Israels bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. It also has imposed a siege and razed entire communities, rendering nearly 90% of the population displaced and everyone food insecure.

Israel says its military tactics are necessary to defeat Hamas and return the hostages. But in a March report for the United Nations Human Rights Council, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, said there are reasonable grounds to believe Israel is committing the crime of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Israel said it utterly rejects the report, which it said brings shame on the council.

For Zarqa and Assad, the war is reminiscent of the horrors they endured during al-Nakba, and its important for them to draw that parallel for young Palestinians in the diaspora, as well as anyone else trying to make sense of the violence.

Al-Nakba never ended, Zarqa says.

They point to recent statements from Israeli officials that have alluded to another Nakba through suggestions of mass killing and displacement, or outright calling for it. In a November interview with Israels Channel 12 news, Minister of Agriculture Avi Dichter described the war as the Nakba of Gaza 2023.

Following Dichters comments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly urged ministers to choose their words more carefully. We must be sensitive, he said, according to The Times of Israel.

Hope for the future

Zarqas heart remains torn between nostalgia and grief as he concedes he may never again see his beloved Palestine, stroll through the quiet streets of Ein Karem or taste its delicious apricots.

But hes sure his descendants will.

There are some 5.9 million Palestinian refugees worldwide, most of them descendants of that 1948 generation of exiles, according to the United Nations. It is the worlds longest-standing protracted refugee crisis, the UN said at a 2023 event marking the 75th anniversary of al-Nakba as it urged a solution grounded in international law.

While some countries, including the United States and United Kingdom, skipped the commemoration after Israel called for a boycott, Zarqa elsewhere sees hope: The anti-war protests taking over city streets and college campuses across the world.

I am so proud of them, Zarqa says. You pass on your stories to your children and then they carry the banner and continue to teach their children, and eventually their own grandchildren.

Palestinians will never forget.

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3 hotels in India's Bengaluru receive bomb threat emails

Xinhua) 09:29, May 24, 2024

NEW DELHI, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Three reputed hotels in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru Thursday received bomb threat emails, prompting authorities to initiate a search operation, police said.

According to police, bomb detection and disposal squads along with sniffer dogs were rushed to these hotels, but the threats proved to be a hoax.

The threatening emails were discovered on Thursday morning when the hotel staff opened the official email accounts.

On Wednesday a bomb threat sent alarm bells ringing in Delhi's North Block after the federal home ministry's office received an email claiming explosives had been planted on office premises and the building would be blown with it. However, upon the search, the threat proved to be a hoax as nothing objectionable was found.

A series of hoax bomb emails have been sent to schools, airports and hospitals in India's national capital.

Besides Delhi, even schools in Jaipur, Lucknow, Kanpur, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad have received similar threats.

Earlier this month, over 100 schools in the Indian capital region Delhi received similar messages triggering a massive scare.

Authorities have been investigating the matter to trace the origin of these emails.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
WASHINGTON  Gussied up in gowns and sharp suits, guests stepped onto the red carpet as their arrivals were announced at Washington's most lavish affair: a White House state dinner.

On Thursday night, President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife, Rachel, to the glamorous event filled with pomp and circumstance. State dinners are often viewed as a tool of soft diplomacy used to court leaders of countries with whom a strong partnership is sought.

"We share a strong respect for the history that connects us together," said Biden as he toasted his guests. He then quoted former President Jimmy Carter, who in 1980 hosted President Daniel Arap Moi of Kenya, saying: "Neighbors do not share a border but share beliefs."

Biden announced Thursday that he would work with Congress to designate Kenya as a major non-NATO Ally as the U.S. looks to deepen 60 years of official U.S.-Kenya partnership. The designation is granted by the U.S. to countries with close and strategic working relationships with the U.S. military and defense civilians.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden pose with Kenyan President William Ruto, his wife Rachel Ruto, and their children as they arrive for a State Dinner at the White House on May 23, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Rutos trip is the first state visit by a Kenyan president to the United States in two decades and the first by an African leader since 2008. The last African leader to address Congress was Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who spoke in the House chamber in 2006.

Thursday's state dinner had about 500 attendees and was the sixth hosted by Biden.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed musical selections by the Howard Gospel Choir, award-winning country music artist Brad Paisley, and "The Presidents Own" the United States Marine Band Chamber Orchestra and the Army and Air Force Strings.

What was the decor like at the state dinner?

American red roses and vibrant fuchsia and purple African orchids were featured throughout in a nod to "unity and friendship" between the United States and Kenya. Glowing candles displayed along the walls of the pavilion made for a cozy ambiance while a suspended centerpiece with 15,000 pieces of layered reflective metallic strips sparkled with gold and silver hues.

The invitees, who ran the gamut from business leaders to movie stars to a couple of former presidents, were ushered into a glass pavilion with over 1,000 glowing candles, where they dined on chilled heirloom tomato soup, fruitwood-smoked beef short ribs, and butter poached-lobster.

President Joe Biden toasts Kenyan President William Ruto during a State Dinner at the White House on May 23, 2024 in Washington, DC

The decor for the evening reflects the first lady's love of candlelight which she favors to make guests feel as if they're at home, even when they're part of a large group, said Bryan Rafanelli, the event planner for the evening.

"As guests leave their path illuminated by our one moon," said Biden, during a preview of the decor earlier. "I hope they will be filled with the same warmth that I felt on my visits to Kenya.

What was on the state dinner menu?

The three-course meal, developed by White House Executive Chef Cris Comerford and White House Executive Pastry Chef Susie Morrison, started with a chilled heirloom tomato soup, followed by short ribs and butter-poached lobster with a side of baby kale and sweet corn puree. For dessert, guests were treated to a white chocolate basket with banana ganache and raspberries, peaches, and candied lime zest.

First Lady Jill Biden hosts a media preview in advance of Thursday evening's State Dinner for President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto of the Republic of Kenya on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

Who were some of the famous guests at the state dinner?

Former President Barack Obama, whose father was Kenyan, made a cameo appearance at the event. His name had not been circulated earlier in the list of attendees. The former president stopped by but did not stay for dinner.

Among other guests at the soiree were former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and actor Sean Penn. There were members of Congress and administration as well as business leaders such as Albert Bourla, the CEO of Pfizer.

Bill Clinton, 42nd US President and his wife Hillary Rodham Clinton, 67th US Secretary of arrive at the Booksellers Room of the White House on the occasion of the State Dinner with the Kenyan president at the White House in Washington, DC, on May 23, 2024.

Gifts for the Kenyan president and wife

As the official gift, the president and first lady presented the Rutos with a set of rocking chairs produced by a family-owned company in Troutman, North Carolina. The wooden rocking chairs have a cane seat, steam-bent back posts, and personalized inscriptions commemorating the state visit on the armrests.

Biden also gifted Ruto with the first edition of the book "The Trumpet of Conscience" by Martin Luther King Jr. in a custom leather clamshell case with a hand-tooled inscription commemorating the state visit. The first lady presented Rachel Ruto with a custom pearl and Arizona peridot gemstone necklace that was crafted by a jeweler in Philadelphia.

Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @SwapnaVenugopal

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: White House's Kenya state dinner takeaways: Orchids and Obama cameo
As Democrats wring their hands over their poor polling numbers in the presidential race, there is one spot of good news for them: U.S. Senate races. Democratic candidates have led in most recent polls of key Senate races like Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin* even as President Joe Biden trails former President Donald Trump in the very same polls.

I went back and looked at every state-level poll that has asked about both the presidential race and a U.S. Senate race over the past six weeks. The table below shows a simple average of these polls by state; as you can see, Senate Democrats are outrunning Biden's margin by an average of 5 percentage points:

It isn't hard to figure out why this is the case. Stop me if you've heard this before, but Biden is unpopular; meanwhile, most Democratic candidates for Senate are popular incumbents, like Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey and Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, and/or have a track record of outperforming the top of the ticket, like Michigan Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Lo and behold, the only three states where Republican Senate candidates are polling better than Trump are the two states where they are incumbents (Florida and Texas) and Maryland, where the GOP's candidate is popular former Gov. Larry Hogan, who had an astounding 81 percent approval rating among Democrats at the time he left office.

PHOTO: Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden is joined on stage by Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) during a campaign event on March 2, 2020 in Dallas, Texas. (Ron Jenkins/Getty Images, FILE)

So it's not exactly a mystery why there's a presidential-downballot gap. The more interesting question is what, if anything, that gap means for November. There are basically three theories to answer that:

1. Biden's support right now is artificially low; there are plenty of traditionally Democratic voters who are telling pollsters they support Senate Democrats but, for whatever reason, aren't ready to get behind Biden yet. So Biden's support will rise as we get closer to the election and those voters get on board, leaving both Biden and Senate Democrats in good shape.

2. Senate Republicans' support right now is artificially low. Since most of them aren't incumbents, they aren't as well known as their opponents, but their support will rise as Trump voters learn that they are on the "right team" in these Senate races. Therefore, both Trump and Senate Republicans will do well in November.

3. Senate Democrats are just more popular than Biden, and this gap will persist through the election: Many states will vote for both Trump and a Democratic Senate candidate.

Right off the bat, I'm skeptical of No. 3. If the current polls end up being exactly correct, Democrats would win at least five Senate races in states Trump carries. That wouldn't have been unusual 20 years ago  in 2004, seven states voted for different parties for president and for Senate. But today, split-ticket voting is quite rare. In 2016, every state voted for the same party for Senate that it did for president, and in 2020, every state but one (Maine) did.

The median difference between the presidential and Senate margins in a state has also shrunk drastically over that time  from 20 points in 2004 to just 3 points in 2020.

By comparison, the median difference between the current presidential and Senate polling margins in the 10 states in the table above is 10 points. It's just really hard to imagine that happening in such a polarized political environment.

So if we assume that the presidential and Senate results are eventually going to come into closer alignment, we're left with the question of which party that will benefit. And to answer that, we need to look beyond just the Democratic-Republican margins in recent polls to the actual percentage of the vote that Biden and Trump are getting compared with Senate Democrats and Senate Republicans.

You see, something that margins obscure is the fact that some voters are still undecided at this early juncture  and looking at actual percentages can give you a clue about who those voters might eventually be inclined to support.

Imagine State X, where Trump leads Biden 43 percent to 39 percent  a margin of 4 points  but the Democratic Senate candidate leads the Republican Senate candidate 47 percent to 41 percent  a margin of 6 points. Thats a 10-point difference in the margin, but its not because 10 percent of the voters in this state are splitting their tickets between Trump and the Democratic Senate candidate. Instead, Trump and the Republican Senate candidate have roughly the same level of support: around 42 percent. But the Democratic Senate candidate is running almost 9 points ahead of Biden, 47 percent to 39 percent, indicating that a lot of people voting Democratic for Senate havent decided who theyre voting for at the top of the ticket yet.

It's plausible that these people could vote for either Biden or Trump in the end; undecided voters, by definition, could go either way. But it is easier to imagine them voting for Biden because they have already expressed willingness to vote for a Democrat  and, again, split-ticket voting has become as rare as platinum. So this scenario would give Democrats reason for optimism.

Well, luckily for Democrats, this is a real scenario: State X is Arizona. And it's a similar story in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin so far  almost all of the presidential-Senate discrepancy in the polls there is accounted for by Biden's soft support among Democratic Senate voters. There's no guarantee that he'll be able to do it, but if Biden can just win over every supporter of Casey, Arizona Rep. Ruben Gallego and Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin,** he has a good chance of erasing his deficit in those states.

On the other hand, the news is worse for Biden in other states. Biden has lots of room to grow in Nevada as well, where he is polling 9 points behind Sen. Jacky Rosen. But likely Republican nominee Sam Brown is also polling 6 points behind Trump, and if both of them catch up to the leader, the Silver State would be roughly tied, 45 percent to 44 percent.

Meanwhile, in Michigan, it's actually Biden and Slotkin who are polling at the same level (42 percent). Likely Republican nominee former Rep. Mike Rogers, though, is underperforming Trump by 3 points, implying that he could pull ahead of Slotkin in Senate polling once Republicans start learning who he is.

This is, of course, an oversimplified exercise; again, these undecided voters aren't guaranteed to break uniformly for the party that they've expressed support for elsewhere on the ticket. In fact, they're almost certain to not break uniformly  that is, some will vote for the same party for president and Senate, but others will split their ticket.

And, crucially, there are still lots of voters who are undecided about their votes for both president and Senate. Look back at the table above; only two numbers in it are above 50 percent (the 51 percent of Floridians who support Republican Sen. Rick Scott and the 55 percent of Marylanders who support Biden). So even if every not-Biden Democrat and every not-Republican-senator Trump supporter comes home in the end, the election in most states is going to come down to which way a more unpredictable group of voters breaks  the truly undecided.

Geoffrey Skelley contributed research.

Footnotes

*Of course, Democrats can win all these states and still lose the Senate if Republicans flip West Virginia and just one of the following three: Montana, Ohio or the vice presidency.

**Importantly, this is not the same as the supposed "reverse coattails" phenomenon, the idea that the energy and campaign efforts for downballot candidates benefit their party's top-of-the-ticket candidates by driving voters to the polls who otherwise wouldn't have voted. There is little hard evidence that reverse coattails are a real thing.

Senate Democrats are polling well. That could help Biden. originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Former President Donald Trump pledged to turn New York red during a campaign rally in deep-blue South Bronx, New York, on Thursday evening as he worked to court the Hispanic and Black voters that make up a majority of the area's population.

"I'm here tonight to declare that we are going to turn New York City around and we are going to turn it around very, very quickly," he said to the crowd not long after taking the stage.

Several thousand Trump supporters turned up at Crotona Park in the South Bronx for the former president's rally -- on a day off from his New York hush-money trial -- where he gave his pitch for his supporters in New York to get out and vote.

"If you want to help, you must vote. I believe that we can win New York State," he said. " We have levels of support that nobody's seen before.  Don't assume it doesn't matter just because you live in a blue city. You live in a blue city, but it's going red very, very quickly."

Former President Donald Trump arrives at a rally in the historical Democratic district of the South Bronx on May 23, 2024, in New York City. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

MORE: Trump trial updates: Appeals court denies defense's bid for judge's recusal

Throughout his speech, which lasted around an hour and a half, the former president touched on a number of his campaign talking points, including bringing up crime in the city, his plans to deport undocumented immigrants, and praise for China's President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

It would be a challenge for Trump to take New York -- a state that has voted for the Democratic presidential candidate in every election since 1988.

Trump's visit on Thursday marked his fourth campaign stop in New York City during his criminal trial. In the past couple of weeks, Trump has visited a Harlem bodega, Manhattan construction site and paid tribute to first responders in midtown Manhattan.

Trump is hoping to capitalize on Black and Hispanic voters -- a key demographic that the candidates need to harness for a November win.

Trump's rally took place in New York's 15th congressional district, a diverse and Democratic area. Anti-Trump protesters clashed with Trump supporters outside of the rally.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, more than 50% of the population in the district is Hispanic, 30% is Black or African American, and less than 10% is white.

"I'm going to make a play for New Yorkers," Trump told reporters outside the construction site of the new JP Morgan Chase Building in Midtown, Manhattan last month. "Normally, a Democrat will win New York. Biden is the worst president in history. We have some very bad people here, but we have the greatest people and they're right behind me. They all want us to run, and we're going to run very hard in New York."

President Joe Biden's campaign on Thursday launched a series of new TV and radio ads that challenge Trump's claims about his accomplishments for the Black community.

"Every halfhearted attempt by the Trump campaign to pander for Black and Latino votes is another reminder that the candidate who stepped into public life falsely accusing the Central Park 5, who stepped into political life by taking the racist birther movement mainstream, who consistently demonizes and dehumanizes Black and Latino communities has one true interest: regaining power so he can enact revenge on his enemies," said Jasmine Harris, the Biden campaign's Black media outreach director.

The New York Young Republicans are behind Trump's visit and organized outreach, billboards and flyers promoting his event. Members of the group said they distributed nearly 2,000 flyers around the city Wednesday.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump watch as he holds a rally in the historical Democratic district of the South Bronx on May 23, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

MORE: Trump campaign accuses Secret Service of 'critical flaw' in RNC convention planning

"We're very excited because not only has this been well received, but it's been encouraged by local people and local constituents," said Adam Solis, chairman of the New York Young Republican Black Caucus and co-chairman of the New York Young Republican Hispanic Caucus.

Solis said he views Trump as a prominent New York fixture and that he hopes to galvanize several of his community members and neighbors.

"Every single human, warm-blooded American in this country, understood that he was the epitome of success," Solis said of Trump. "He was an incredible businessman. He was business savvy. And if there was something that needed to get done, he could get it done."

Crotona Park is located a few blocks away from Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's home district. Trump's visit was anticipated to be met with a counter-demonstration led by Bronx Democrats and liberal activists at the other end of Crotona Park.

Democratic Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo, who represents the Bronx, said people "will not stand by as Donald Trump tries to distort what our community and its residents represent. Instead, we will come together and tell our own story."

New York is a Democratic stronghold  joining California and Illinois  with the plurality of voters in New York State registered with the Democratic Party.

In another layer of drama to Thursday evening, thunderstorms are expected in New York while both events are taking place in the Bronx.

Trump courts Black, Hispanic votes in South Bronx rally: New York is 'going red very, very quickly' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Getty Images / globalmoments

Annabelle Tometichs new book The Mango Treeis as juicy as the tropical fruit itself. Billed as a memoir of fruit, Florida, and felony, this is the kind of captivating read that can pull you in for hours. But its also written in such a way that each chapter feels like its own little story, so its also ideal for picking up and putting down.

Related: 50 New Beach Reads Perfect For Summer 2024

Hachette Book Group

Growing Up Filipino-American

The book starts with the felony. Annabelle is a journalist working at her local newspaper when she gets a call that her mother, Josefina, has been arrested for shooting someone who she says was trying to steal mangoes from her yard. Knowing her mothers hot temper and obsession with her mango tree, this situation makes immediate sense to Annabelle and her siblings, who rally to help get Josefina out of jail.

Born to a Filipino mother and American father, Annabelles identity, family, and her birthplaceFort Myers, Floridaare at the heart of the book. Narrating from the present day, Annabelle has the focused eye of a reporter as she takes readers through her childhood, where life at home is chaotic. Her parents fight bitterly, and her overburdened mother works constantly to support their family and relatives back in the Philippines. Unlike the other carefree kids in her suburban neighborhood, she has to raise her younger siblings and be responsible.

The family faces heartbreaking losses, too. In these chapters, you can feel young Annabelles pain and confusion as she tries to understand the world around her and her place in it, while older, present-day Annabelle adds depth and humor that comes with the passage of time.

Mangoes And Manila

There is joy, too. In one of my favorite chapters, the family goes to pick mangoes at a farm, filling bag after bag with heavy fruit. At home, they line the dining room table with newspapers and have a sticky, messy feasta rare moment of togetherness. Other sections of the book take place in the Philippines, where Annabelle experiences a life that is entirely different than her own back in Florida, and sees her mother in a new light, too. In one memorable passage, she is whisked around Manila by her cool Tita (aunt) Perla, who takes her on a shopping spree that reads like a sixth grader's fever dream.

A Mother-Daughter Story

As Annabelle grows up, goes to college, and starts a career and family of her own, her relationship with her mother grows more difficult, and at times, things between them seem beyond repair. The story eventually circles back to Josefina's arrest and trial, from the beginning of the book. As the news circulates around town, it forces Annabelle to reckon with her complicated mother and her own identity.

Josefina was not always the supportive parent her children wanted, but her toughness is what helped her survive as an immigrant in this country and provide for her family. As Annabelle writes: "In this exotic, inhospitable terrain, my mother made a home for us, one she planted and grew on her own."



Related: 50 Books From The Past 50 Years Everyone Should Read At Least Once

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Read the original article on Southern Living.
Two years ago Friday, a gunman killed 19 students and two teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in one of the deadliest school shootings in history.

The details wracked the community, the state and the nation. Authorities waited 77 minutes before entering the classroom and taking out the shooter. He kept killing children in the meantime.

In the moments, days, and years since, investigations, hearings, news reports and lawsuits introduced a stunned nation to a cast of Texans, from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Uvalde County District Attorneys Office to local police, politicians and parents.

These are the stories of some of those involved in the shootings aftermath, where they have been, and where they are now.

Pete Arredondo

Pete Arredondo, former police chief of the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District, was fired by the school board three months after the shooting. Arredondo oversaw a police response that was widely scrutinized by both parents and officials, including the U.S. Department of Justice.

More than an hour passed from the time law enforcement entered the school and the time the gunman was killed, as Arredondo instructed his officers to evacuate after entering so he could negotiate with the gunman, according to the Justice Department report.

Arredondo was fired with a general discharge, or a discharge that is due to a disciplinary investigation or performance problem, according to Texas 2036, a nonpartisan policy organization. Arredondo appealed the decision and had his honorable discharge restored  only for a judge to rule his general discharge reinstated and close the case.

Since his firing, Arredondo has remained absent from the public eye and has not publicly announced another job, though records indicate he still owns a residence in Uvalde County. His name entered into headlines at the beginning of this year after the Justice Department report alleged Arredondo failed to take control of the scene.

Col. Steve McCraw

More than 90 DPS officers responded to Robb Elementary on the day of the shooting, but a Justice Department report said law enforcement did not follow training by immediately taking down the shooter. DPS Director Col. Steve McCraw told CNN in September 2022 that if the department was found to be culpable for a lack of response, he would be the first to resign and would release all records related to the shooting.

He has done neither since the Justice Departments report was released. This is despite a ruling in March in favor of releasing the records to news outlets, including the Austin American Statesman and the rest of the USA TODAY Network.

Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell has said she requested the records be withheld to protect grand jury proceedings, a reason McCraw cited when defending his refusal. The grand jury investigation is still underway, and McCraw testified before the jury in late February. Litigation for the records is ongoing, and an additional hearing will be held in September.

Christina Mitchell

Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell convened a grand jury at the beginning of this year to investigate the police response to the shooting and to recommend possible criminal charges against law enforcement officers.

Christina Mitchell, District Attorney for the 38th Judicial District, leaves the Dry Frio Room at the Uvalde County Fairplex on Monday, Feb. 26, 2024 in Uvalde, Texas.

Mitchell has drawn criticism from former Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin, who called for her resignation and accused her of covering up records related to the shooting requested by the city. McLaughlins made the remarks before news outlets filed suit.

Mitchell remains district attorney and is running for reelection unopposed this November.

Don McLaughlin

Don McLaughlin served as mayor from 2014 to 2023 before resigning to run in the ongoing race for the Texas House of Representatives. House District 80, which includes Uvalde, has been represented by State Rep. Tracy King (D-Uvalde) since 1994. King has not faced a general election opponent in several years, but his retirement has created a competitive race for the seat.

McLaughlin received national attention in the wake of the Uvalde shooting. During an appearance on "Good Morning America," he said gun violence is caused by mental health issues not guns. He also criticized nominees for governor, including former-US Rep. Beto ORourke, D-El Paso, at a press conference after the shooting.

Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin answers questions regarding the Robb Elementary shooting at the SSGT Willie de Leon Civic Center in Uvlade, Texas, on Sunday, July 17, 2022.

But McLaughlins campaign for Texas House is not centered around the issue of guns. Instead, he has cited concerns that Uvalde and South Texas are overlooked by politicians in Austin, according to the campaign website. McLaughlin secured the GOP nomination for HD80 with 58% of the vote, and will face one of two Democrats who are in a primary runoff.

Kimberly Mata-Rubio

Kimberly Mata-Rubio was motivated to enter local politics in Uvalde following the loss of her 10-year-old daughter Lexi in the shooting. Mata-Rubio ran for mayor to succeed the retiring McLaughlin, but was defeated by former Mayor Cody Smith, 65 percent to 32 percent. She ran as an advocate for stricter gun laws, criticizing state and national leadership for failing to address the issue and pass meaningful legislation. Mata-Rubio had support from national Democrats, and fundraised through ActBlue, the Democratic National Committees fundraising platform.

After her loss in the mayoral race, Mata-Rubio congratulated Smith but said she will never stop fighting for Lexi, and that this race was only the beginning.

Just a few months into Smiths term however, he abruptly resigned from his seat April 1 for undisclosed health reasons. Mayor Pro-Tem Everardo Zamora will serve as interim mayor until the November election  Uvaldes third mayoral election in five years. The position of mayor has a four-year term. Mata-Rubio has not announced plans to run again.

Brett Cross

Brett Cross also took up advocacy following the death of his son Uziyah Uzi Garcia in the shooting. He has organized sit-ins in front of the Uvalde Police Department and previously at the Uvalde CISD Police Department before it was shut down.

In February, he posted a video to X of an automated call that lawmakers in Congress have received. The call uses artificial intelligence to recreate Uzis voice and asks, what is it going to take for you to make sure violence like this stops happening?

In February, Cross was arrested at a county commissioner meeting and charged with disrupting a meeting when he swore at the county judge.

State Sen. Roland Gutierrez

State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio, made the Uvalde shooting central to a campaign to unseat Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, sometimes surrounded at his rallies by Uvalde parents who lost their children in the shooting.

State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D - San Antonio, talks to Leon Hernandez, 9, on the courthouse square in Uvalde on Thursday June 2, 2022, days after the third-grader survived a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School.

Gutierrez lost the Democratic primary to Rep. Colin Allred by 42 points but carried Uvalde County by 54 points. He has remained steadfast in his support for the Uvalde families and the fight for stricter gun laws. Gutierrez has shared posts to X recently telling the stories of each Uvalde victim in the days leading up to the anniversary of the shooting.

He has not announced any additional plans to run for public office but remains in the Texas Senate, where he spoke out last session against legislation that he said did not do enough to ensure the safety of students. The measures, House Bills 3 and 13, required every school campus to have an armed security officer and for every school to create active shooter safety plans.

Gutierrez still believes Texas should pass a ban on assault weapons, but previous attempts have failed in the state's GOP-controlled legislature.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Two years after the Uvalde shooting, where are the key figures now?
A Virginia company's job listing inviting only White people and the U.S.-born to apply for a position didn't just raise eyebrows online  it also caught the attention of the U.S. government.

Arthur Grand Technologies' job advertisement last year restricted eligible candidates to "only US Born Citizens [white]" and those living within 60 miles of Dallas, Texas, noted the U.S. Department of Justice, which determined that the Ashburn, Va.-based company's discriminatory listing violated the Immigration and Nationality Act.

A recruiter working for an Arthur Grand subsidiary in India posted the ad on job site Indeed in March and April of 2023 for a business analyst position with the company's sales and insurance claims team. The ad was widely circulated on social media and generated multiple news stories.

"It is shameful that in the 21st century, we continue to see employers using 'whites only' and 'only US born' job postings to lock out otherwise eligible job candidates of color," Kristen Clarke, assistant attorney general with the department's civil rights division, said in a statement. "I share the public's outrage at Arthur Grand's appalling and discriminatory ban on job candidates based on citizenship status, national origin, color and race."

Arthur Grand did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The company earlier denied approving the ad and said it had been placed by a disgruntled worker looking to embarrass the company, according to a settlement with the Justice Department.

The company will pay a civil penalty of $7,500 under the agreement to resolve the matter. It also agreed to pay $31,000 to compensate those who filed complaints with the Department of Labor.

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Nikki Haleys decision to back former President Trump is a big development in the 2024 race that is likely to help unify Republicans further behind a candidate who has somewhat divided them.

While Trump steamrolled though the primaries, a substantial protest vote has emerged for Haley in contest after contest  a concern for the ex-presidents camp, though he has brushed it off.

Haleys decision could limit that protest. At a minimum, it means the woman making headlines for winning such support is throwing her weight behind her rival.

I think it does have an impact. I think a lot of the most genuine Haley supporters do care, and it does make it slightly harder, said Robert Schwartz, the executive director of the Haley Voters Working Group, when asked if the development made it more difficult for the Biden campaign to win over her supporters.

Last week, Haley won 20 percent of the vote in Marylands GOP primary and 18 percent in Nebraskas primary. She received nearly 22 percent in Indiana earlier this month, and in April, Haley won more than 100,00 votes in Arizona and Pennsylvania, respectively.

At the start of the cycle there, was always 20-30 percent of modeled Republicans in the primary that were never going to consider voting for Trump in the primary process, one Republican strategist said.

Haleys public comments saying she would vote for Trump could also be interpreted as a signal to her donors that they have the green light to put financial resources behind Trump.

Divided parties fall, so both campaigns need to unify, said Bruce Mehlman, a former official under President George W. Bush. Democrats tried to unify by disallowing alternatives from the outset, Republicans by persuading the many failed competitors to ultimately bend the knee and fall in line.

Haleys backing of Trump is undoubtedly a blow to President Biden, who has been working to court her supporters since she exited the race in March.

Biden has argued that moderates, independents and those disillusioned by their choice in November belong in his camp, in an attempt to grow the Democrats coalition ahead of Election Day.

The Biden campaign launched an ad just last month, aiming to target Haley voters and underscore Trumps insults toward her and her supporters.

Team Biden also held a Zoom call with the Haley Voters Working Group following her remarks, a source familiar with the meeting confirmed to The Hill. The meeting was on the books before Haleys comment and not a reaction to it, the source said.

Schwartz, the head of the group, said he was undeterred by Haleys half-endorsement of the former president.

[The] whole point of our organization is, we already thought it was going to be hard and we wanted to make sure its Haley voters that were focused on  Nikki Haley made a tough decision, and a lot of these voters are going to have to make tough decisions as well, he said.

Meanwhile, Democrats say they arent shocked by Haleys move.

At the end of the day, this is a further indication of the old adage that Republicans fall in line, Democrats fall in love, said Antjuan Seawright, a Democratic strategist.

Lets not make assumptions about any of those who spoke out against Trump in the primary, he added.

And Haley, along with the other then-2024 Republican presidential hopefuls, signed a Republican National Committee pledge to support the nominee. The pledge was required for candidates to take part in the primary debates. Trump did not sign the pledge.

When asked in early March by NBCs Meet the Press whether she felt compelled by the pledge, Haley said, No. I think Ill make what decision I want to make.

John LaBombard, former communications director for Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), agreed Haleys support isnt surprising and shouldnt change much for Biden.

It was always going to require real, sustained effort for President Biden to earn the support of some chunk of these voters, and that remains the case, said LaBombard, a senior vice president at ROKK Solutions. But registered Republicans willing to buck Donald Trump are already exercising independent thinking and a willingness to break from their party orthodoxy  so while some will support Trump and some will undervote, some probably also remain open to supporting President Biden. And some may be enough in one or more of the battleground states.

Whatever decision Haley made would also inevitably impact her future plans, including another possible presidential run.

She is seen as a formidable force in the GOP, highlighted by the primary votes she was able to bring in, and her move raises questions over if shes making a bid for vice president or a Cabinet slot.

If you want to have a future in GOP politics, you have to back the nominee, the Republican strategist said. To have a future in the party, you cant ever be seen as not being supportive of the nominee and, frankly, particularly if they were to lose. You never want to be the one partially or  in this case, maybe unfairly or not  significantly blamed for that.

However, some Haley supporters are quick to point out that she made the comments in her capacity as a voter.

A lot of her voters werent look to her for a permission structure, said Alissa Baker, a Haley supporter who served on her Virginia leadership team.

She stated a personal opinion, Baker continued. Maybe some people will follow it, but I dont think it was in any way an endorsement, so I dont know if anyone will really jump on top of it and say this is going to move the needle either way.

Still, some anti-Trump Republicans are criticizing her move.

Not a surprise but: Pathetic, former Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) wrote on the social platform X.

Oh and remember this [Haley] from just 2  months ago: Trump is unhinged and an unhinged president is an unsafe president. Were you lying then? Or did you really believe it? former Republican National Committee Chair Michael Steele wrote in another X post.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Berlinda Arreola, from left, Dora Mendoza, Javier and Gloria Cazares, Ana Rodriguez, Veronica and Jerry Mata band together after attending the groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new Uvalde Elementary School on Oct. 28, 2023, in Uvalde. They all lost children or grandchildren in the Robb Elementary School shooting on May 24, 2022. There's a $20 million deficit for the new school. Across Uvalde and in Texas, the call for stable leadership to establish healing and safety has gone unanswered. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Gloria Cazares (right) hugs Julissa Rizo as Uvalde families share an emotional moment after the Committee on Community Safety votes 8-5 to approve the raise the age bill on May 8, 2023. The families and other concerned Texans gathered at the State Capitol to express their outrage over the most recent mass shooting in Allen, Texas that killed eight people. Their advocacy for gun safety policies in Texas haven't been successful. Across Uvalde and in Texas, the call for stable leadership to establish healing and safety has gone unanswered. Kin Man Hui/Staff photographer Arnulfo Reyes, bottom center, listens to music during a candlelight vigil held to remember the 21 victims of the Robb Elementary School shooting at Memorial Park Amphitheater in Uvalde on May 24, 2023. Across Uvalde and in Texas, the call for stable leadership to establish healing and safety has gone unanswered. Sam Owens/Staff photographer

Two years ago, 19 children and two teachers were killed in the school massacre at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.

Uvalde, a small city about 80 miles west of San Antonio, became a national touch point on that day  May 24, 2022  when an 18-year-old gunman turned the school into a killing field.

It was the nation's second-deadliest school shooting, and questions still linger today about how the flawed police response contributed to the suffering. Nearly 400 officers on the scene, from local, state and federal agencies, allowed the gunman to continue his 77-minute rampage before a Border Patrol-led team stormed the classroom to kill him.

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Wednesday, Uvalde families announced they reached a $2 million settlement with the city and accepted a $2 million insurance limit with the county. They spoke of rebuilding trust.

And with the passage of time, some positive leadership changes have occurred in Uvalde. Yet the community remains fractured.

When Homer Delgado was named the new police chief, he made critical promises to the community, vowing to foster much-needed change.

I want to be clear: The Uvalde Police Department is on the brink of a complete transition, he said. We will challenge every member of our department to rise to a new level of professionalism and accountability.

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It's also encouraging that Jesus Jesse Rizo, the uncle of Robb Elementary School shooting victim Jackie Cazares, was recently elected to the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District board.

Across Uvalde and in Texas, the call for stable leadership to facilitate healing and safety has gone unanswered.

Since the school shooting, the city has seen three mayors. Just as depressing is that Ashley Chohlis, the new Uvalde CISD superintendent, has been unsuccessfully lobbying Congress for funding, not only to keep her district safe but also for a new school to replace Robb Elementary. The deficit for that alone is $20 million.

Another void will be felt when Josh Gutierrez, the Uvalde CISD police chief who took over in November 2022 after the district suspended its entire police force, resigns at the end of this school year.

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There has been virtually no accountability or sense of urgency in addressing the failures of that day. Many of the victims families were understandably disappointed after a consultants report absolved local police officers for their failed response during the shooting.

Even worse is that the criminal investigation, led by the Texas Rangers and Christina Mitchell, district attorney for Uvalde and Real counties, is still pending.

As for gun policy and police accountability in Texas, nothing has changed. Last year, the Uvalde victims' families unsuccessfully urged Texas lawmakers to raise the minimum age to purchase semi-automatic weapons from 18 to 21. The Legislature passed a school safety bill, a largely unfunded mandate that requires armed security officers at schools.

Gov. Greg Abbott, who has governed during some of the deadliest mass shootings in American history  Sutherland Springs, Santa Fe, El Paso, Midland-Odessa and Uvalde  is proud of his record on protecting gun rights.

Less than a week before the two-year mark of the Robb Elementary massacre, Abbott raved about his gun support during the NRA conference in Dallas.

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"Since I became governor, Texas has passed more significant Second Amendment protections than any other state in the United States of America, Abbott said. That includes campus carry. Open carry. And then, two sessions ago, I had a big signing ceremony at the Alamo with leadership members from the NRA, where I signed seven protections of the law, including constitutional carry in the state of Texas.

Wild applause followed. Because this is Texas, where not even a record of mass shootings will silence excitement about guns.



This past week, the Uvalde Leader-News published a 12-page special section and a poignant series of video tributes that convey the most profound loss  that of so many precious lives.
YEREVAN, MAY 24, ARMENPRESS. The United States will impose visa restrictions and review relations with Georgia over a controversial foreign influence law that has sparked mass protests in the country.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the law wouldstifle the exercise of freedoms of association and expression, stigmatize organizations that serve the citizens of Georgia, and impede independent media organizations working to provide Georgians with access to high quality information. Blinken also criticized the way Georgian authorities dealt with the protests.

In response to these actions, theDepartment of Stateisimplementing a new visa restriction policy for Georgia that will apply to individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia, as well as their family members.This includes individuals responsible for suppressing civil society and freedom of peaceful assembly in Georgia through a campaign of violence or intimidation, his statement reads.

Besides, Blinken announced that the State Department is launching a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation between the United States and Georgia.

It remains our hope that Georgias leaders will reconsider the draft law and take steps to move forward with their nations democratic and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. As we review the relationship between our two countries, we will take into account Georgias actions in deciding our own, Blinken concluded.

The bill requires NGOs and media outlets that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies "pursuing the interests of a foreign power." The ruling Georgian Dream party insists it is committed to joining the EU and was acting to increase transparency on NGO funding.

Georgian lawmakers passed the law despite major protests, with critics saying the move would silence opposition groups and shift the former Soviet republic away from a pro-Western course back toward Russia.

President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the law last week but lawmakers have the votes to override her.
YEREVAN, MAY 24, ARMENPRESS. Eight people were killed and another injured in a knife attack in Hubei Province, central China, authorities said Friday.

According to Xinhua, the attacker, a 53-year-old man, reportedly suffers from mental illness. He fatally stabbed eight people and injured another on Thursday morning in Xiaowu Township in the city of Xiaogan.

The injured person did not sustain life-threatening wounds.

Police have detained the suspect, and an investigation is under way.
YEREVAN, MAY 24, ARMENPRESS. The first batch of Ukrainian pilots have graduated from F-16 training at an Arizona military base, a crucial step toward putting modern, American-made fighter jets in Ukraines skies, Capt. Erin Hannigan, a spokesperson with the Air National Guard, told POLITICO.

The pilots had been training at the 162d National Guard Air Force Base in Tucson. Hannigan would not confirm how many have graduated or the exact date of graduation out of abundance of caution for their safety.

The pilots are now headed to Europe for additional training, POLITICO adds, citing a person with knowledge of their movements.

Ukraine is slated to receive more than 60 F-16s from Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands and Belgium.
YEREVAN, MAY 24, ARMENPRESS. President of the Republic of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan received Chairman of the Union of Banks of Armenia Daniel Azatyan.

Vahagn Khachaturyan welcomed the guest and noted that the banking system is the most authoritative and independent structure in Armenia, playing an important role in the stability of the country and the development of its economy since its creation, reported the office of the President of the Republic of Armenia.

The President highlighted the importance of healthy competition in the banking system, ensuring continuous improvement and flexibility.

Daniel Azatyan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet and noted that one of the main goals of creating the Union is the impartial protection of the interests of Armenian banks, as well as ensuring the security of the competitive environment in the banking system.

Daniel Azatyan provided the President with detailed information about the main activities of the Union of Banks, touched upon events in the banking system of Armenia, existing problems and opportunities to overcome them.

VahagnKhachaturyan expressed his willingness to support initiatives aimed at reforming and developing the country's banking sector within the scope of the president's powers.
New Delhi: In an indication of the fear that has gripped thousands of Indian students in the Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan after the recent anti-foreigner riots there, the Indian embassy in Kyrgyz capital Bishkek said on Friday that though the situation in Bishkek is calm, it is working with medical universities in the Central Asian nation at the request of Indian medical students to arrange for their transport to the nearest international airport to address their concerns.

The statement indicates that many Indian students want to return home amid reports that they have virtually been confined to their rooms for the last several days by the authorities there to ensure their safety from local mobs on the streets. Commercial flights between Bishkek and Delhi are operational through other cities in third countries such as Almaty, Dubai, Istanbul, Sharjah and Tashkent.

India had earlier this week said it was concerned at the recent incidents of violence against foreign students in Bishkek but pointed out that due to swift action by the Kyrgyz authorities, the situation in Bishkek has returned to normal.

Pointing out that about 17,000 Indian students are in the Kyrgyz Republic, New Delhi urged the students and their families not to pay attention to rumours being spread by some mischievous elements. It further said the Indian ambassador in Bishkek and other Indian diplomats posted in the Central Asian nation had visited various universities in the country over the past few days to interact with Indian students and address their concerns.

India also said that air connectivity between Bishkek and Delhi remains operational, but pointed out that all Indian students must contact their universities about the formalities required for the completion of their exams.

It may be recalled that according to media reports, violence had broken out a few days ago between local Kyrgyz students and foreign students belonging to a North African country, following which riots erupted in the Central Asian nation where the locals targeted foreign students in the streets.

In a statement earlier this week, the Indian embassy in Bishkek had said: The embassy has been concerned at the recent incidents of violence against foreign students in Bishkek. However, due to swift action by the Kyrgyz authorities, the situation in Bishkek has returned to normal. No untoward incident has been reported in Bishkek during the past few days. There are no restrictions on the movement of transport or people. However, as a measure of precaution, the classes are being conducted in an online mode.

It added: Every year, a large number of Indian students join medical and other universities in the Kyrgyz Republic for further studies. At the moment, about 17,000 Indian students are in the Kyrgyz Republic and spread across many cities, but most of them are in Bishkek The embassy has been working actively with the universities and senior government functionaries to address the concerns of the Indian students. Two helplines  have been functional  where students can continue to reach out to the embassy for all kinds of assistance. Students and their families are urged not to pay attention to rumours being spread by some mischievous elements.

The Indian embassy added: The ambassador visited the Jalal-Abad State University on May 18 and the International Higher School of Medicine in Bishkek today and interacted with the Indian students there. Embassy officials visited the International Medical University and the Eurasian Medical University on May 21 and the Royal Metropolitan University and the Avicenna University today to continue this interaction with the students and address their concerns. Air connectivity between Bishkek and Delhi remains operational and flights to India can also be availed via Almaty, Dubai, Istanbul, Sharjah and Tashkent. The local transport to Manas International airport in Bishkek remains accessible to Indian students.

It also pointed out: As the academic year is coming to a close, prior to travelling back to India including for summer vacations, all Indian students must contact their respective universities about the formalities required for the completion of their exams. In case any assistance is needed, the students are requested to contact the embassy of India in Bishkek. The embassy remains committed to ensuring the well-being of the Indian student community.
Mumbai: The death toll in the chemical factory blast at Dombivali rose to 13 after the discovery of six more bodies from the factory site on Friday. The police have registered a culpable homicide case against the owners and senior employees of the factory.

A boiler exploded at the factory of Amudan Chemicals situated at the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area, Dombivali on Thursday afternoon. There were two-three subsequent explosions due to chemicals stored in the factory. The impact of blasts was such that it shattered windows of nearby buildings and also damaged adjacent factories.

A police official informed that they have booked the owners of Amudan Chemicals  Malti Pradeep Mehta, Malay Pradeep Mehta  along with other senior officials of the company under the IPC section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and Explosive Substance Act. According to the police, inadequate precautions in chemical processing and storage led to the explosion.

The company had not taken precautions over mixing of chemicals, final products, and their storage knowing well that any lapses might lead to an explosion which could affect and damage the company and structures around it, says the FIR.

The Thane police's crime branch, which is now probing the case, apprehended the owners. Malti Mehta was detained from Nashik, the crime branch said in a release. Malay Mehta (38), was detained from Thane and the local Manpada police have taken him into their custody from the crime branch, it said.

Confirming 10 deaths, Kalyan Tehsildar Sachin Shejal said it could increase further as more bodies are suspected to be lying on the premises of the factory.

At least 64 people, including women, working in the Amudan Chemicals factory and adjacent factories were injured due to the explosion and are being treated at six different hospitals. The state government has announced that it will bear the hospital expenses of all injured people.

Siddhesh Kadam, chairman of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, inspected the blast site on Friday. He confirmed that two people were still missing. We are working to complete the rescue operation as soon as possible and dealing with the hazardous chemicals. Chief minister Eknath Shinde has given strict instructions to provide all necessary support for the ongoing rescue operations and to prepare a plan to swiftly relocate the hazardous chemical unit from here. After this visit, we will have a meeting with our officers to finalise the plan and then present it to the Chief Minister, he said.

Earlier in the day, Ambadas Danve, Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, criticised the lack of industrial safety measures in the area. There has been no Industrial Safety Department here. If you look at this area, such a factory should not have been here near the residential area. A technical person should have been here because a normal worker or labourer cannot handle a reactor. The management of this factory is responsible for the blast. The industrial safety department has been ignorant towards this, he said.

The Shiv Sena UBT leader further said that there are around 450 factories in the area which should be moved elsewhere. This is not the first accident in this industrial area since 2016 this is the fifth or sixth such accident, Danve said.
Today's news: Poverty in Lebanon tripled in a decade; Summit between leaders of South Korea, China and Japan on 26-27 May in Seoul, first trilateral talks in four years; Heavy pre-monsoon rains claim seven victims in Kerala; A centuries-old Armenian church reopens in Zakho, Iraq; Russian local government offers children a prize trip to fascinating North Korea.

MYANMAR

Myanmar's coup army raided the village of Hapakant in northern Kachin State yesterday, detaining more than 30 people including Christian leaders and teenagers on charges of supporting a rebel group. About 100 soldiers stormed the area before dawn, rounding up residents in a school. Those detained were released after nine hours of interrogation. At least 20,000 trapped in fighting in Maungdaw, western Rakhine State.

LEBANON

The poverty rate in Lebanon has tripled in a decade, affecting one in three people and exacerbated by the economic crisis that erupted in 2019 and the conflict in the south with Israel. According to a World Bank report, the figure has risen from 12 per cent in 2012 to 44 per cent in 2022 and, in some rural areas, it will reach 62 per cent. As for Syrian refugees, nine out of 10 are below the poverty line.

SOUTH KOREA - CHINA - JAPAN

The leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet on 26-27 May in Seoul for the first trilateral talks in over four years. South Korean Prime Minister Yoon Suk Yeol will hold bilateral talks with Chinese counterpart Li Qiang and Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida, while on the second day there will be a three-way mini-summit. They will discuss economics and trade, sustainable development, health, science and technology, disaster management and security, and people-to-people exchanges.

INDIA

At least seven people have died in the southern state of Kerala from heavy pre-monsoon rains, while the rest of the Asian sub-continent remains affected by a persistent heat wave that has claimed lives in several countries. Showers were 18% higher than normal in the area, causing heavy flooding and disrupting flights at the Kozhikode airport.

IRAQ

With the support of Erbil, Hungary and the Armenian Archdiocese of Iraq, a 100-year-old church was reopened in recent days in Zakho, Kurdistan. The building is one of five Armenian places of worship in the northern autonomous region, built in 1923. At the inauguration, former MP Yarwant Aminyan recalled that the town opened its doors to survivors of the 1915 genocide.

RUSSIA - NORTH KOREA

The administration of Russia's eastern Primorje region decided to celebrate Child Protection Day by offering children a great sightseeing trip to the fascinating country of North Korea. The programme includes visits to the zoo and the Aquapark, a visit to Pyongyang and much more, thanks to an agreement between the governments of the two countries.

KYRGYZSTAN - UZBEKISTAN - TAJIKISTAN

The Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Zaparov, told the Republican Plenary Assembly that with Uzbekistan we have closed all border disputes. With Tajikistan little remains, negotiations are slow and laborious, but we trust to conclude as soon as possible, to defend the integrity of our territory and the unity of our people.
by Dario Salvi

For Adel Bakawan, the death of the Iranian President (buried yesterday in his hometown of Mashhad) and Foreign Minister will not have a significant impact on relations. Relations managed by the Pasdaran following the dictates of the Supreme Leader. Iranian influence in the Iraqi elite remains deep and nothing seems feasible or governable without Tehran's consent.

Milan (AsiaNews) - It is highly unlikely that the deaths of the Iranian president and foreign minister in the helicopter crash on May 19 can have a significant impact on relations between Iran and Iraq. This is what Adel Bakawan, director of the French Research Centre on Iraq (Cfri), a profound connoisseur of Middle Eastern affairs and, in particular, of Iraq, Kurdistan, and issues related to jihad and terrorism, emphasises in an interview with AsiaNews.

This is due to the fact that these relations [...] are not managed by the president or the government but, he adds, by the Pasdaran who follow the dictates of the supreme guide Ali Khamenei. Born in Iraq in 1971, the Franco-Iraqi professor and sociologist is also a member of the Institut de Recherche et d'Etudes Mediterranee Moyen-Orient - Iremmo, a research associate at the Arab Centre for Research and Political Studies (Carep) and a lecturer at the University of Evry. The fact remains, he observes, that among Iraqi elites, Iranian influence is still pervasive and intense. To the point that nothing seems feasible or governable without Tehran's consent on key issues.

Meanwhile, a burial ceremony for the Iranian president took place in Mashhad, his hometown, four days after the incident. The 63-year-old exponent of the radical faction, with a past of death sentences and frequent use of the death penalty, a possible successor to the post of supreme leader, was buried in the holy shrine of Imam Reza, a revered figure in Shia Islam.

Among the seven people who died was also Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, 60, who was buried yesterday at the Shah Abdol-Azim shrine in Rey, a southern suburb of the capital Tehran. In attendance was interim President Mohammad Mokhber, who will hold office until the 28 June vote. State media rhetoric did not hesitate to call the president's burial historic with millions of people attending. In reality, there were also scenes of festivity and celebrations in the country for the disappearance of one of the symbols of the ongoing repression that has worsened in the aftermath of Mahsa Amini's death. A hunt for the opponent that has also crossed the borders of the Islamic Republic, to extend into Iraqi territory as has happened in recent months.

Below is the complete interview with Adel Bakawan:

How did Iraq react to the death of the Iranian president (and foreign minister)?

The reaction was at two levels: state and society. At the state level, the Iraqi government, which maintains close relations with Iran, showed a cordial and compassionate response. This reaction was consistent across various political and ethnic groups, including Sunni, Shiite, and Kurdish groups, all of whom have strong ties with the Iranian government. The Iraqi President and a delegation, along with the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, traveled to Tehran to offer their condolences.

At the societal level, the response was different. There was a sense of satisfaction among some people, who viewed Raisi as an oppressor. Therefore, there was a notable break in reactions to the disappearance of the President at the state level and Iraqi society level.

Tehran influences Iraqi politics and society in various ways: what consequences could result from this incident? And what is the most credible version?

It is highly unlikely that the death [of the president and the foreign minister] will have a significant impact on relations between Iran and Iraq. These relations in the first place are not managed by the Iranian president or government, but are governed by the Guardians of the Revolution (Pasdaran), who follow the dictates of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Regarding the helicopter crash, there are at least four credible versions in the country's public opinion: technical problems with the helicopter; adverse weather conditions; an attack by a foreign nation; an internal conspiracy orchestrated by Raisi's opponents. However, the fact remains that so far the Islamic Republic of Iran has not taken up any of these theses - at least officially - and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Could what happened be a further factor of instability for Iraq and the Middle East in general?No, the disappearance of President Raisi does not impact the management of power dynamics in Iraq or the wider Middle East. This is because it is not the Iranian government that handles such matters, but rather the Supreme Leader, who oversees various Middle Eastern issues including the conflict between Hamas and Israel, militia groups in Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen, the Syrian civil war, and overall relations in the Arab world.

At what level are relations between Tehran and Baghdad today?

Iraq holds significant importance in the Islamic world and is crucial for Iran's national security. Consequently, Iran can negotiate its presence in other Middle Eastern countries, except Iraq, due to reasons related to security, economics, culture, geopolitics, and religion. The Islamic Republic of Iran maintains strong relations with all three major segments of Iraqi society: Shiites, Kurds, and Sunnis. However, if any of these groups attempt to break away from Iranian influence, they face severe repercussions, as seen with the Iraqi Kurds.

Raisi was scheduled to visit Iraq shortly, his first as president. What were the topics at the centre of the meeting and what was the value of this visit?he meeting was anticipated for several months. The main topics of discussion between Raisi and the Iraqis were the economy, security (including the presence of Iranian opposition on Iraqi soil), and diplomatic relations between both countries. However, now we must await the next president of the republic and a favorable context in both Iraq and Iran for such a visit to take place.

Tehran is the reference point of Shia Islam. Is Iranian influence today greater from a political or religious point of view?

From a societal standpoint, there is significant resentment among Iraqis towards Iranian influence in Iraq. This sentiment was reflected in the initial slogan of the protest movement: "Iran sleeps but Iraq must stay free." However, among the Iraqi elite, Iranian influence is pervasive and intense. To the extent that nothing seems achievable or governable without Iranian consent on key issues.
Jan Welch, left, of Austin, holds up two homemade fans that read 77 minutes and end gun violence during a commemorative gun violence awareness event held at the town square on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. Friday marked two years since 19 fourth-graders and two teachers were killed in a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Julian Moreno, great-grandfather of Robb Elementary mass shooting victim Alexandria "Lexi" Rubio stands by her memorial cross at the town square on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. Friday marked two years since 19 fourth-graders and two teachers were killed by an 18-year-old gunman at the Uvalde school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Robb Elementary shooting survivors Amy Franco, left, Arnulfo Arnie Reyes, center, stand with other survivors and community members at the town square on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. The former Robb Elementary School educators waved orange flags signifying gun violence awareness to commemorate the 21 victims of the shooting  19 fourth-graders and two teachers  who died two years ago Friday. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Jan Welch, center, of Austin, and others wave to traffic driving by Main Street during a commemorative gun violence awareness event held at the town square on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. Friday marked two years since 19 fourth-graders and two teachers were killed in a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Family members of Robb Elementary mass shooting victims Jackie Cazares and Tess Mata stand outside of the boarded up school building on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. Friday marked two years since 19 fourth-graders and two teachers were killed by an 18-year-old gunman inside the school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Ana Coronado, right, does a free mommy daughter photoshoot" with Jessica Morales and her daughters Aaliyah, 10, and Emma, 4, on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. Coronado has taken up photography to honor her daughter Maite Rodriguez, who was killed in a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School two years ago, May 24, 2022. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Arnulfo Arnie Reyes, a survivor of the Robb Elementary mass shooting, talks with reporters as he stands with community members at the town square on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. The former Robb Elementary School teacher provided free orange flags signifying gun violence awareness to commemorate the 21 victims  19 fourth-graders and two teachers  who died two years ago Friday. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Ana Coronado, right, does a free mommy daughter photoshoot" with Jessica Morales, left to right, and her daughters Emma, 4, and Aaliyah, 10, on Friday morning, May 24, 2024, in Uvalde, Texas. Coronado has taken up photography to honor her daughter Maite Rodriguez, who was killed in a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School two years ago, May 24, 2022. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News A makeshift memorial still stands outside of Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, nearly two years after an 18-year-old gunman killed 19 fourth-graders and two teachers inside the school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News A makeshift memorial still stands outside of Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, nearly two years after an 18-year-old gunman killed 19 fourth-graders and two teachers inside the school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News A makeshift memorial still stands outside of Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, nearly two years after an 18-year-old gunman killed 19 fourth-graders and two teachers inside the school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News A makeshift memorial still stands outside of Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, nearly two years after an 18-year-old gunman killed 19 fourth-graders and two teachers inside the school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News

Two years ago today, 19 fourth-graders and two teachers were killed by a teenage gunman at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.

The tragedy is the worst school shooting in Texas history, and it sparked renewed conversations about school safety and gun restrictions. Families will gather at the Uvalde Amphitheater Friday at 7:30 p.m. to remember the victims and celebrate their lives. The event is open to the public.

TWO YEARS LATER: Remembering the 21 school shooting victims

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Many relatives of the slain students and teachers have channeled their grief into political activism, traveling to Austin and Washington, D.C., to advocate for raising the age to purchase assault-style rifles. At least one parent, Kimberly Mata-Rubio, who lost her 10-year-old daughter Lexi, will speak at a Democratic news conference on Friday outside the GOP convention in San Antonio.

Though the families have not achieved the gun law reform they want, the shooting inspired the most significant action on federal firearm laws in decades and an unprecedented investment in school safety measures.

In the weeks after the shooting, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn led negotiations on the bill that would become the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which increased scrutiny for young gun buyers and introduced stiffer penalties for gun trafficking and straw purchasing.

The Legislature also set aside at least $1.4 billion last year to help schools make safety upgrades and invest in mental health services. A majority-GOP state House committee also advanced a bill that would raise the age to purchase assault-style weapons, though the legislation never passed the full chamber.

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Meanwhile, the families also have sought accountability for the nearly 400 police officers who responded to the school on May 24 but declined to confront the shooter for 77 minutes as students called 911 for help. The Department of Justice released a scathing report earlier this year detailing officers flawed response, but federal officials did not recommend any disciplinary or criminal action.

Had law enforcement followed generally accepted practices in an active shooter situation and gone right after the shooter to stop him, lives would have been saved, and people would have survived, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in Uvalde earlier this year.

The city of Uvalde commissioned a separate investigation into its officers actions that day and released that report in March. The probe found none of the first five Uvalde police officers who responded to the school violated policy, which outraged victims family members and survivors.

But there has been some movement. Nineteen families of victims killed or injured in the shooting announced earlier this week that the city would pay out a $2 million settlement. As part of the agreement, city officials agreed to new policies intended to strengthen the Uvalde Police Department and memorialize the victims, and they established May 24 as an annual Day of Remembrance.

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The families are suing the Texas Department of Public Safety and 92 of its officers who responded to Robb. The federal lawsuit also targets the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District and several of its employees at the time of the massacre.
An official with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office and former police officer will go on trial on 10 February 2025 along with a security officer in connection with an attempt to break into a home and for unlawful surveillance. A third man detained was found dead under mysterious circumstances. More than 200,000 people from the former British crown colony have fled to Britain in recent years. Diplomatic tensions are rising over the activities by Hong Kongs trade office.

London (AsiaNews/Agencies)  A justice at the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey) in London ruled that Bill Yuen Chung-biu and Peter Wai Chi-leung, two men with links to the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in London, will go on trial on 10 February 2025.

Both were arrested in early May under the UKs National Security Act on charges of espionage and surveillance against Hong Kong exiles who fled to the British capital after the crackdown against protests in 2019. The two are currently out on bail.

A third man was arrested with them, Briton Matthew Trickett, but he was found dead in a park on Sunday, in unclear circumstances, a few days after his release.

The case is turning into a diplomatic incident as it puts the spotlight on Hong Kongs overseas trade offices.

Charged with promoting trade with the Chinese special administrative region, the network of 14 trade offices has been accused by human rights groups of engaging in espionage and intimidation against Hong Kong exiles, protected by their diplomatic status.

This is a particularly hot topic in the United Kingdom since the British government opened its doors to more than 200,000 Hongkongers with a British National (Overseas) passport who fled the repression of 2019 in what was until 1997 a British crown colony.

UK authorities recently released data on visas granted to BN(O)s in the first three months of 2024, showing that as a result of Hong Kongs new national security law implementing Article 23, departures from the territory have started to pick up again, with 10,737 new arrivals, up over the same period in 2023.

Yuen, Wai, and Trickett were arrested earlier this month after allegedly trying to break into the home of a BN(O) passport holder who recently moved to London, accused of taking part in information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception, that [were] likely to materially assist a foreign intelligence service between 20 December 2023 and 2 May 2024.

Bill Yuen, 63, is an HKETO officer based in London, as well as a retired Hong Kong police officer. He is accused of instructing Wai and Trickett to conduct surveillance and raiding the BN(O) home.

Peter Wai, 38, is the director of a UK-registered private security firm, D5 Security Consultancy Limited, which also involved 37-year-old Matthew Trickett, the man found dead.

According to some witnesses, the latter announced his intention to take his own life after his arrest, but there are still doubts about this story.

Yesterday Hong Kongs Secretary for Trade and Economic Development Algernon Yau asked the British authorities to find the truth" behind this death, the first reaction coming from China in this affair.

Meanwhile, in the UK, seven MPs from different political parties have called for a review of the diplomatic status and privileges granted to the HKETO.

If employees of the HKETO were operating as accomplices of transnational repression, beyond their legitimate remit of economics and trade, the option of closing the London HKETO should be considered, reads their signed joint statement.

Photo: Hong Kong Democracy Council
Today, at least nine people died in Rajasthan from possible heatstroke; yet the main parties ignore the problem, which is hardly present in their election platforms. The issue is more relevant at the local level, but the actions by individual states have a limited impact.

New Delhi (AsiaNews)  Indias elections are taking place amid a stifling heat wave. Over the last few weeks, the countrys media have frequently reported on the inconveniences caused by the great heat. Today, at least nine people died in the Indian state of Rajasthan from an apparent heatstroke.

Yesterday, the temperature reached 48.8o Celsius in the city of Barmer, while in the Indian capital of New Delhi, voters are called to cast their ballot tomorrow with the temperature expected to reach 45o Celsius.

Several events were cancelled due to the unbearable heat and many attributed the low turnout in the first phase (out of seven till June) to the scorching heat, which discouraged people from leaving their homes. Yet, climate change continues to be largely absent from political debates.

April and May have always been the hottest months in India, but climate change in recent years has worsened the situation, causing more extensive, frequent, and intense heat waves.

According to a report by the Centre for Science and Environment, a research organisation based in New Delhi, India experienced extreme weather for about 90 per cent of the time in 2023.

Last year, monsoons killed 523 people, the highest number ever recorded, causing US$ 2.5 billion in damage.

Roxy Mathew Koll, a climatologist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, explained that floods have increased threefold since the 1950s and cyclones have increased by 50 per cent since the 1980s.

Only in 2019 did the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the main opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), refer to climate change in their election posters.

In this election cycle, the parties have presented plans to improve India's climate resilience, but in a very general way and without ever focusing on them during election rallies.

According to a 2022 survey, between 1999 and 2019, only 0.3 per cent of all parliamentary questions were about the climate crisis.

Yet for many Indians, the climate emergency is very important. In a survey two years ago, 81 per cent of respondents said they were "very concerned" about climate change.

Issues related to religion, caste and occupation still shape voting behaviour of most Indians, Koll noted, but climate does play an important role when "the entire community is affected".

About 25,000 voters in Ennore, a neighbourhood in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu on the Bay of Bengal, initially planned to boycott the elections in part because they got no government support after Cyclone Michaung devastated the eastern coast of southern India in December.

The boycott was later called off after the local government said it would address the issue following the vote.

The politics of climate change in India is just not labelled neatly as 'climate change' but it does not mean that climate change is not shaping Indian politics," said Aditya Valiathan Pillai, a fellow at the New Delhi-based Sustainable Futures Collaborative, an independent climate change research organisation.

Most policies focus primarily on coping with the consequences of climate change rather than on the climate emergency itself, he explained.

In Sikkim, where elections to Parliament and the state assembly are being held concurrently, former Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling has vowed to suspend construction of large hydropower projects after a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) last year swept away a dam and thousands of homes and infrastructure, killing a hundred people.

After the tragedy, environmentalists pointed out that the local government had been repeatedly warned about the risks of expanding the hydroelectric network.

Other local initiatives in individual Indian states in recent years have proven effective (in Telangana, for example, roofs are painted white and new heatwave wards have been created in hospitals), but these measures have limited effectiveness when implemented on a small scale.

INDIAN MANDALA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO INDIA. TO RECEIVE A WEEKLY UPDATE EVERY FRIDAY, CLICK HERE.
CHINA: China says war games around Taiwan to test ability to seize power

The Peoples Liberation Army continues land, sea and air exercises that began on Thursday around the self-ruled island .

Chinas military has begun its second day of war games around Taiwan, with drills that it said were to test the armed forces ability to seize power and control key areas of the self-ruled democracy.

As the first day of exercises, codenamed Joint Sword-2024A, got under way on Thursday, China described them as punishment following the inauguration speech by Taiwans new president William Lai Ching-te in which he said Taiwan was a sovereign and independent nation with sovereignty resting in the people.

Keep reading

Why are thousands of people protesting in Taiwan?

What do Chinas latest military drills around Taiwan mean for the region?

Strong punishment: China starts two days of military drills around Taiwan

William Lai Ching-te urges peace as he becomes Taiwans new president end of list

Lai also stressed Taiwan would make no concessions on its freedoms and called on Beijing to stop its aggression against Taiwan.

The drills are part of an escalating campaign of political and military intimidation by Beijing, which claims the island as its own and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve its goal of unification.

The two-day exercises are testing the capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories, said Colonel Li Xi, spokesman for the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theatre Command.

Taiwan mobilised its armed forces to monitor and shadow Chinese activity as the drills got under way.

On Friday, the islands Ministry of Defence published pictures of F-16s, armed with live missiles, patrolling the skies.

It also showed images of Chinese coastguard vessels, and other navy ships taking part in the drills near the Pengjia Islet north of Taiwan. Taiwans President William Lai Ching-te at a visit to a military base. He is seated with two officials and punching the air. Soldiers in uniform are behind them.

Footage published by Chinas military, meanwhile, showed soldiers streaming out of a building to battle stations and jets taking off to a rousing martial tune.

State broadcaster CCTV reported that Chinese sailors had called out to their Taiwanese counterparts at sea, warning them against resisting reunification by force.

Blunt language

Beijing considers Lai a troublemaker and a separatist. Like his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen, he says only Taiwans people can decide their future.

At Thursdays regular press briefing, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Wang Wenbin used the kind of blunt language usually used by the countrys propaganda outlets.

Taiwan independence forces will be left with their heads broken and blood flowing after colliding against the great  trend of China achieving complete unification, Wang told reporters.

Beijings Xinhua news agency and ruling party newspaper, the Peoples Daily, both ran editorials hailing the drills on Friday, lashing out at Lais treacherous behaviour and promising a severe blow.

The United Nations has called on all sides to avoid escalation, while the United States  Taiwans strongest ally and military backer  strongly urged China to act with restraint. Advertisement

The defeated Republic of China government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing Chinas civil war to Mao Zedongs communists, who founded the Peoples Republic of China.

The drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and to the north, south and east of the island, as well as areas around the Taipei-administered islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

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24 May 2024 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

In the world market, Azerbaijani oil has become cheaper, Azernews reports.

The price of one barrel of "Azeri Light" brand oil decreased by $0.9 or 1.08 percent to $82.64.

It should be noted that the lowest price of "Azeri Light" oil was recorded on April 21, 2020 ($15.81), and the maximum price was recorded in July 2008 ($149.66).

It should be noted that the fluctuation in oil prices is influenced by various factors including global demand, geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, and economic conditions among others.

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24 May 2024 14:39 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

At the COP29 presentation ceremony in Lachin, Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources and designated president of COP29, outlined the expansive agenda for the upcoming conference, Azernews reports.

Beyond financial matters, COP29 will address critical issues such as water management, land degradation, green agriculture, food security, health, and youth concerns, reflecting a comprehensive approach to global challenges.

Babayev underscored the centrality of finance as a key focus area for COP29, acknowledging the complexities of negotiations, particularly concerning the expectations of developing countries for financial support.

"It's not so easy, bargaining is difficult, especially when the expectations of developing countries for this finance are very high, it is necessary to find a suitable way. We must do our best to bring them closer, and I think that there are some positive signals from the parties. All countries now understand how important it is to unite their efforts and understand each other. This is important in order to find good results in Baku in 2024," he emphasized.

Additionally, Babayev assured that there is ample time to develop COP initiatives and expressed openness to discussions on various topics.

"That's why we are very open to discussing that with you. At the same time, I'd like to give you some information about our calendar this year. We're planning to go to Antigua, Barbuda to meet with the least developed countries, the islands. I think we have a lot of questions that we're going to discuss with them. We plan to organize several additional events there, as well as to introduce our country to the world, to show how we are ready to fulfill this great program, this great commitment," he stressed.

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24 May 2024 15:39 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Deputy Minister of Energy and Chief Executive Director of COP29, Elnur Soltanov, expressed his opinion that "Armenia's decision to hold the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Azerbaijan was a very good sign," Azernews reports.

Speaking at the COP29 presentation ceremony in Lachin, attended by members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan, including military attaches, E. Soltanov noted that the decision to host COP29 in Azerbaijan was made possible with the support of the entire international community.

"It is a very responsible task to lead the most important negotiations on climate change and the climate crisis in the world as the host of COP29. We need to take measures to fight the global climate crisis. But for this, we need implementation tools. The main implementation tool is finance. Thus, we must come up with an ambitious action agenda, and we have started work on this path. In this way, we will inspire and revive the world community."

The Deputy Minister said that Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur have been declared "green energy zones".

"Thus, Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur become a testing ground for Azerbaijan's "green" technology and "green energy". So, the importance of this region coincides with the great task we have undertaken. Because Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur are the best for the "green" world. "This is the place where we are testing the technologies. If it is successful, we will apply it in other regions of Azerbaijan. We will produce more "green energy" than is consumed in this region, and in a certain sense it will be exported to other regions of Azerbaijan."

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24 May 2024 15:17 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

Javid Abdullayev, director of the State Agency for Renewable Energy Sources under Azerbaijans Ministry of Energy, met with Jill Duson, a member of the US Senate of Maine, and other members of the House of Representatives, Azernews reports.

According to the information, director Javid Abdullayev spoke about measures taken in Azerbaijan toward renewable energy and global climate goals and said that the green energy powers to be created in cooperation with foreign companies will contribute to global energy transition and climate goals.

According to him, there is great interest in the auction held for the design, financing, construction, and operation of the 100 MW Gobustan Solar Power Station. Also, US companies were invited to participate in this auction.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the development of the use of renewable energy sources.

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24 May 2024 16:39 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The OPEC+ Monitoring Committee and Ministerial Meetings Shift to Virtual Format on June 2, Azernews reports.

The organization announced that the upcoming 188th Meeting of the OPEC Conference, the 54th Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) Meeting, and the 37th Meeting of Ministers from OPEC and non-OPEC countries (ONOMM) will be conducted via video conference.

Originally scheduled for June 1 in Vienna, Austria, the meetings will now take place digitally, underscoring ongoing adaptations in response to global circumstances.

It should be noted OPEC, founded in 1960, coordinates oil policies among its 13 member countries, including major producers like Saudi Arabia and Iran. To adapt to changing global oil dynamics, OPEC formed OPEC+ in collaboration with non-member oil producers like Russia.

Azerbaijan, a significant oil producer, actively participates in OPEC+ discussions despite not being an OPEC member. Its involvement adds diversity to the alliance and helps address challenges in the global oil market.

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24 May 2024 16:21 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Tajik Cinema Days has come to an end at Nizami Cinema Centre, Azernews reports.

The event was held within the Days of Tajik Culture organized in the cities of Baku and Ganja, featuring vibrant concerts, an exhibition of artists and craftsmen, film screenings and display of national costumes, which provide insight into the history, culture, and customs of the Tajik people.

Director of the Azerbaijan State Film Fund, Honored Artist Jamil Guliyev, addressed the closing ceremony of the Tajik Cinema Days.

Honored Artist Jamil Guliyev noted that the cinematographers of the two countries have always had close relations.

Noting that Tajik culture plays an important role in his life, Honored Art Worker and film critic Ayaz Salayev said:

"I established good relations with them while studying at the Institute of Cinematography in Moscow. My Tajik friend and director Tolib Hamidov played one of the main roles in my film "Bat". This was very important for me. I think that relations between our cultures should be established more closely."

Chairman of the Tajikistan Filmmakers Union Safar Hakdodov expressed hope that the cooperation between the two brotherly countries will continue to develop in the future.

Director-General of Tajikfilm Mahmadsaid Shokhiyon said that diplomatic relations between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan developed dynamically during the years of independence.

"The high-level, solid and reliable contacts between the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a great contribution to this," said the director general.

Director Nosir Saidov emphasized that the film "Mirror" was shot in the genre of psychological drama.

In the end, the movie "Mirror" was shown, which aroused great interest among the spectators.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
The NYPD has quietly dropped charges against pro-Palestinian demonstrators that had taken over university campuses amid heightening tensions over the Israel-Gaza war.

While it's unclear as to how many summonses were vacated over the past several weeks, it's most likely in the hundreds.

Several demonstrators who spoke to THE CITY said their attorney informed them their charges had been waived, including those arrested at Columbia University on April 18, at New York University on April 22, at Columbia again on April 30, and at the City University of New York's City College that same night.

Despite the move, another 90 people facing misdemeanor and felony charges arrested at Columbia and City College inside barricaded buildings still have their cases pending before the courts.

Between April 18 and May 8, the NYPD arrested more than 600 people involved in demonstrations in and around college campuses in New York City opposing Israel's war in Gaza.

Students and faculty arrested at Columbia and City College on April 22 began to get word that their summonses had been dropped through attorneys this week, according to THE CITY.

A number of those who had been arrested in earlier raids at Columbia on April 18 and NYU on April 22 received letters from the state court system and through lawyers earlier this month.

Zach Samalin, an assistant professor of English who was arrested and charged with trespassing when visiting the student encampment on the evening of April, said,

"No charges stuck, so it really does just seem like NYU was using the NYPD as a way to intimidate protesters."

"That's been sort of vindicating," he added.

Ali Wong, a 38-year-old student organizer, was among 60 demonstrators arrested the night of April 13 on Columbia's campus who had linked arms outside Hamilton Hall to block police from entering the barricaded building demonstrators had taken over.

While Wong is relieved that the trespassing charge against her is no longer pending, it makes her feel even more suspicious about Columbia's justification for deploying police in the first place.

"If there was legitimate concern, why not take this to court?" she asked.

"Scrutinize it in a way that any alleged crime deserves to be scrutinized."
24 May 2024 20:19 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

The delimitation processes are ongoing after Armenia agreed to return 4 occupied villages of Gazakh to Azerbaijan. We are talking about Baganis Ayrim, Ashagi Eskipara, Khairimli, and Gizilhacli residential areas, which were occupied in 1991-1992, during the first Garabagh War.

Today, it was taken under full control by the Azerbaijani border guards. Thus, after the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020 and local anti-terrorist measures implemented in 2023, Azerbaijan secured another victory in the direction of liberating the occupied lands without any concessions.

Undoubtedly, history is being rewritten in the South Caucasus region. Azerbaijan has ensured its sovereign right to ensure its territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as to protect the rights of internally displaced persons and refugees. Official Baku is currently focusing on the implementation of future infrastructure and green energy projects.

Note that the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict had gone down in the history of the 20th century as one of the most tragic conflicts, as its implications seriously affected the fates of millions of Azerbaijanis. The conflict, which began with Armenias overt territorial claims to Azerbaijans historical lands, provocations on ethnic grounds and acts of terror in the late 1980s, resulted in military aggression against Azerbaijan.

As a result of Armenian aggression, more than 1 million Azerbaijanis became refugees and internally displaced persons, more than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed during the military operations, and more than 50,000 were disabled.

As a result of the first Garabagh war, the whereabouts of 3,890 Azerbaijanis, including 71 children, 267 women and 326 elderly people, as well as 872 people who were taken hostage or prisoner (according to data as of 1 December 2020), are unknown.

A total of 900 settlements, 150,000 houses, 7,000 public buildings, 693 schools, 855 kindergartens, 695 medical institutions, 927 libraries, 44 temples, nine mosques, 473 historical sites, palaces and museums, 40,000 museum exhibits, 6,000 industrial and agricultural enterprises, 160 bridges and other infrastructure facilities were razed to the ground in Garabagh in 1988-1993.

Azerbaijan is currently implementing large-scale restoration and reconstruction work in Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur economic regions at its own expense. As part of the Great Return program, thousands of former IDPs have already returned to their native lands. By 2026, some 140,000 former IDPs are expected to return to their homeland.

In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, to ensure the liberation of the villages of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Eskipara, Kheyrimli, and Qizilhajili in the Gazakh region of the Republic of Azerbaijan from occupation, a Protocol was signed on the delimitation of the state border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia on April 19.

As a result of the delimitation work, a 12.7 km long border line was determined, and thus, the territories of four villages of the Gazakh district (6.5 km2 in total) were returned to Azerbaijan.

This can be considered one of the main elements that accelerate the peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Because since the return of the 4 villages to Azerbaijan, occupied by Armenia, by the Armenian leadership, an unusual panic has occurred in the country. The primary reason for this is the agitation and counter-propaganda that the local church and opposition groups are trying to create among the people in the country.

We regret to note that although the leading forces in Armenia are trying to take certain steps towards the normalistion of relations with Azerbaijan, the opposition groups that prevent this play into the hands of the West and other anti-Azerbaijani forces with deep interests in the South Caucasus.

Recall that following the recent meeting of the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia in Alma-Ata on May 10, it was confirmed that the signing of the peace treaty between the two countries is in the near future.

The Armenian leadership even admits that the agreement reached between the two countries was the first in history. The signing of the peace treaty in the region will contribute a lot to Armenia as well as Azerbaijan and will maintain long-term security in the South Caucasus.

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24 May 2024 10:37 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

According to the plan of bilateral military cooperation between the Ministries of Defense of Azerbaijan and Georgia for 2024, the delegation led by the Chief of the Military Police Department of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Georgia, Colonel Shalva Shengelia, is on a visit to Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

During the visit, the delegation visited the Military Police Department of the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense.

First, flowers were laid at the monument to the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev erected in the area and his memory was honored.

Welcoming the guests at the meeting held at the Military Police Department, the Chief of the Military Police Department, Lieutenant Colonel Elgun Aliyev expressed his satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan

At the meeting, the sides expressed satisfaction regarding the current state of bilateral military cooperation, emphasizing that friendly and fraternal relations are based on mutual trust and support. The significance of such meetings in terms of exchanging experience was highlighted.

Then the guests were given a briefing on the activities of the Military Police Department.

The Georgian delegation expressed gratitude for the sincere hospitality.

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24 May 2024 12:00 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

Heydar Aliyev International Airport strives to provide accessibility for passengers by offering various destinations and airlines for travel. With the start of the holiday season, about 30 countries and about 80 destinations (from tourist resorts to business capitals) will be even more accessible to passengers, Azernews reports.

During the summer months, Turkish cities remain one of the most popular destinations. From June, the frequency of flights to Antalya, Izmir, Trabzon, and Dalaman will be increased. Flights on these routes will be operated by AZAL, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and Ajet.

Gulf resort enthusiasts are offered more than 80 scheduled weekly flights to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Bahrain and Kuwait. The flights will be operated by the national carrier, "Wizz Air Abu Dhabi", "Air Arabia", "FlyDubai", "Gulf Air", "Kuwait Airlines" and "Jazeera Airlines". It will also be possible to travel to Sharm el-Sheikh 3 times a week from Baku airport through AZAL and Air Cairo Airlines.

The cities of Frankfurt, Tivat, Astana, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Ufa, Tyumen, Surgut, and Sochi are among the destinations where flight frequencies will increase.

In addition, regular flights from Baku to new destinations - Batumi, Bishkek, Bucharest, Sofia, Bodrum, Dalaman, and Muscat will be launched in June, providing passengers with more travel opportunities.

Detailed information about flight schedules can be obtained from the official website of the respective airlines.

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24 May 2024 12:54 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

The military personnel of the Military Police Department hold combat training classes under the training plan for 2024, Azernews reports.

The delegation led by the Chief of the Military Police Department of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Georgia, Colonel Shalva Shengelia, who is on a visit to Azerbaijan, watched the combat training exercises.

First, the Defense Ministry leadership delivered to the military personnel the requirements and instructions regarding the better organization of the commandant service activities of the military police units and increasing vigilance, as well as the organization of interoperability with the relevant state bodies.

The personnel of the military police units involved in the combat training classes was instructed to organize patrolling at checkpoints, protect military facilities, direct the movement of military vehicles, and ensure the safe movement of convoys.

Then the personnel put on alert moved towards the designated points in convoy.

According to the plan of the classes, the tasks on neutralizing terrorists and freeing captured civilians, providing first aid to the wounded and their evacuation were accomplished with high professionalism.

During the training classes, the main focus was on ensuring the safety of the civilian population in the areas of hostilities, the release of prisoners and hostages, as well as improving activities in accordance with the requirements of the Geneva Conventions in the treatment of war prisoners.

In the end, a group of distinguished military personnel was awarded.

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24 May 2024 17:41 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

The Milli Majlis accepted the annual report of the executive power body that supervises the provision of gender equality, Azernews reports.

The related issue was included in the agenda of the parliament session held on May 24.

The report was presented by Bahar Muradova, Chairman of the State Committee on Family, Women and Children's Problems.

After the deliberations of the deputies, the annual report was put to a vote and accepted.

Note that the discussion of 6 issues was included in today's agenda of Milli Majlis's meeting chaired by Sahiba Gafarova.

Those issues are as follows:

1. Information on the activities of the executive authority in 2023, which supervises the provision of gender equality.

2. Draft law on amending the law "On tobacco and tobacco products" (third reading)

3. Draft Law on Amendments to the Law "On Food Safety" (third reading)

4. Draft law on amending the Tax Code, the Customs Code, the laws "On State Duties" and "On Licenses and Permits" (third reading)

5. Approved by the Law No. 960-IIQ dated June 28, 2005 of the Republic of Azerbaijan "The circulation of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances prohibited, restricted and controlled in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as import, export, transit transportation and production in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan" draft law on amendments to the "lists of precursors for which a license is required" (third reading)

6. Draft law on amending the law "On labor pensions" (first reading).

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24 May 2024 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk does not intend to participate in the 2025 presidential elections.

According to Azernews, the politician said this in his statement to "TVP Info".

He said that he supports the participation of Warsaw Mayor Rafal Tszaskovski in the presidential elections as a candidate from the "Citizen Coalition".

None of the country's leading politicians has officially announced their intention to participate in the 2025 presidential elections.

Marshal (speaker) of the Sejm (lower house of the Polish parliament) Szymon Holovnya and Minister of Foreign Affairs Radoslav Sikorski did not rule out their participation in the campaign.

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24 May 2024 09:48 (UTC+04:00)

Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations Louis Bono is traveling to the South Caucasus region over the next few weeks to discuss U.S. support for the peace process and how best to reach a durable and dignified peace, Azernews reports, citing the US Embassy in Azerbaijan.

"Mr. Bono plans to meet with key stakeholders to support the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process. He will visit both Azerbaijan and Armenia. We stand ready to assist in any process that brings peace and stability to the people of the South Caucasus," said the embassy.

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24 May 2024 20:09 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

The Japanese government has expanded the sanctions lists against the Russian Federation, once again accusing the Russian side of supplying weapons from the DPRK, Azernews reports.

According to the published document, one natural person and nine legal entities from Russia, two legal entities from Cyprus were added to the sanctions lists. In particular, Vladimir Mikheychik, CEO of the state-owned airline 224th Flight Detachment, fell under Japanese sanctions, suggesting the freezing of assets in case of their discovery.

The airline itself was also included in the sanctions lists along with the Ashuluk military training ground and the Russian Military Transport Aviation Command. As part of the sanctions against Russia, Japan has also imposed restrictions against the Cypriot companies IBEX Shipping and Azia Shipping.

In a statement, the Japanese Foreign Ministry once again accused the Russian Federation of purchasing weapons from the DPRK. Moscow has repeatedly and categorically rejected accusations by Western countries of illegal military-technical cooperation with Pyongyang.

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24 May 2024 21:49 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

China has introduced Chat Xi PT, a new chatbot based on the political philosophy of President Xi Jinping, Azernews reports.

A new chatbot with artificial intelligence is being developed at the research center at the State Chancellery of Internet Information of the People's Republic of China. The developers highly appreciated the basis of the chatbot, stating that "the expertise and authority of the corps guarantee the professionalism of the content being created."

Chat Xi PT is able to answer questions, create reports, summarize information and translate from Chinese to English. The chatbot will be engaged in spreading Xi Jinping's ideas in the fields of politics, economics and culture, contributing to the campaign to promote these principles in China.

Chat Xi PT is currently being used for research purposes, and may be released for wider use in the future. The chatbot is designed in such a way that the responses correspond to China's socialist values, preventing the appearance of subversive content.

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24 May 2024 22:31 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

South Korean President Yun Seok-yel, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will hold a trilateral meeting in Seoul on May 26-27, Azernews reports.

In addition to the trilateral meeting, the South Korean President will also hold bilateral meetings with the Prime Ministers of China and Japan. This will be the first joint meeting of the leaders of the three Asian countries since December 2019.

Kim Tae-hye said that the trilateral meeting will discuss issues of economy and trade, sustainable development, health, science and technology, cooperation and exchange between the countries. Regional and international issues will also be on the agenda. A joint statement is expected to be adopted following the meeting.

On the second day of the meeting, a business forum will be organized with the participation of businessmen from all 3 countries.

South Korean media write that at the meeting, South Korea and Japan will ask China to play a more active role in stopping North Korea's nuclear missile activities.

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Republican Representative Andy Ogles claimed that a $320,000 personal loan listed in his campaign filings was a mistake, after activist groups compared the congressman to disgraced politician George Santos.

Questions about Ogles' financial filings were first raised when local news outlet WTVF discovered that the congressman did not list any savings or investments on his personal financial disclosures - even as he claimed to loan hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Updated financial disclosures contain 11 amendments indicating that he only loaned $20,000 to his campaign, not $320,000.

"I am a grassroots representative and I pledged everything I own to run for the honor of representing Tennessee's Fifth Congressional District. That $320,000 pledge comprised several documented assets including bank and retirement accounts which I was willing to personally risk for the chance to fight for Middle Tennessee," Ogles wrote on Thursday afternoon.

"While we only needed to transfer $20,000, unfortunately, the full amount of my pledge was mistakenly included on my campaign's [Federal Elections Commission] reports."

Ogles claimed that he worked with attorneys and FEC reporting experts to correctly amend his campaign documents.

In the aftermath of the original news investigation, the Campaign Legal Center filed a complaint with the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE), drawing comparisons to ousted New York Representative George Santos.

"The expulsion of Representative George Santos for filing false financial disclosure statements and other ethics violations demonstrates why investigations of significant discrepancies in a candidate's financial reporting are warranted," the complaint read.

"Unexplained inconsistencies in Rep. Ogles' reported finances and allegations of him misrepresenting his background raise fundamental questions for voters about the transparency of their elected representative. The public has a right to know the sources of money that may be used to influence a federal election, as well as potential conflicts of interest that may arise due to a member's financial obligations."

In addition to the discrepancies between his personal assets and his campaign loans, Ogles also failed to report a $700,000 line of credit, according to the Campaign Legal Center.

Ogles is a member of the House Freedom Caucus and a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump. Earlier this month he introduced a bill in the House that would send "any person convicted of unlawful activity" on a college campus to Gaza for six months. He was also one of nearly a dozen lawmakers who sat in a Manhattan courtroom last week, supporting the former president during his hush money trial.
A New York City hotel developer, who donated to Mayor Eric Adams' campaign, raked in millions of dollars of city funding after Adams took office, a recent investigation revealed.

Weihong Hu received lucrative contracts from the city to provide housing for formerly incarcerated New Yorkers and newly arrived migrants, in her Queens hotels. In at least some instances, however, those hotel rooms actually went to city officials and Adams associates, according to an investigation by news outlets The City, The Guardian US and Documented.

Hu and Adams reportedly first met in a Brooklyn diner in May 2021. The hotelier had financial interests on the line - as she had previously secured city contracts during the de Blasio administration. Adams, meanwhile, was seeking the Democratic mayoral nomination and needed campaign funds. The two spoke for a half hour, took a photo together and then parted ways. Within a few weeks, Hu was bundling donations for the Adams campaign, according to the investigation.

More than a year later, top mayoral aide Winnie Greco reportedly lived in a suite in Hu's hotel, while the city footed the bill for eight months. In a separate incident, the mayor's son Jordan Coleman and an unidentified woman stayed in a Hu-owned hotel - though once again their room was paid for using city money.

Hu also hired another Adams associate - former state Senator John Sampson - to serve as CEO of one of her hotel companies. The pair met at an Adams fundraiser just one month after Sampson was released from prison after being convicted of embezzlement, according to The City.

Just one month after Hu hired Sampson, the Department of Homeless Services approved a $7.5 million annual contract to house migrants.

When journalists pressed Sampson about his role in Hu's business he responded "I'm not saying anything," according to The City.

"I'm just saying, 'Do your homework.' I'm not going to do your homework for you. You know I don't deal with the press."

Wu also reportedly got out of following city regulations regarding construction safety, using her ties to City Hall. Late one evening, the Department of Buildings reversed a stop work order at Hu's hotels, despite reports of a serious safety issue. At a separate hotel development, Hu was reportedly allowed to flout a stop work order intended to block her from demolishing rent-stabilized apartments.

"Somebody had to get a favor somehow somewhere on this because this went from an incredibly public, structured process with multiple agencies involved to come up with a solution, and then it all went away," housing activist Joe Restuccia told The City. "What happened here?"

Mayor's Office Spokeswoman Liz Garcia defended both of the reversals in a statement.

"The two projects referenced went through standard DOB processes for investigating and addressing complaints, and once all conditions were deemed safe at each site, DOB allowed work to continue," she told The City.

In June 2023, Hu hosted a fundraiser gala for Adams that Greco also attended. The campaign reported receiving 20 donations at the event - each for $2,000 - from Hu's friends and family members.

"We want to start early and make sure that we have the necessary funds to put on a good strong campaign," Adams told the event's guests.

Months later, however, three of the donors alleged that Hu illegally reimbursed them for contributions, The City reported in an earlier investigation.

"The truth is we donated because my friend asked me to," one of the donors said. "[Hu] told me to write a check, I did her a favor and then she gave me the cash."
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.
Mark Tapscott, writing at PJ Media, reports:

Big Government bureaucrats and power-hungry politicians have no greater enemy than the serious and sustained transparency and accountability that would flow from having a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) on the books that sends violators to jail.

Americans saw this week one of the most outrageous examples of what happens when the FOIA is toothless since Hillary Clinton got away with destroying 33,000 of her emails while secretary of state. And the FOIA has been toothless since LBJ signed the measure into law in 1966.

That latest example is now knownthanks to the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemicto be Dr. David Morens, the former senior adviser to then-National Institutes of Allergies and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Director Anthony Fauci at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Morens is paid $183,500 annually, according to U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) data compiled by Open the Books If you want to know how much virtually any federal worker is paid, go to the OTB site and use the new "Benjamin the Chatbot." Super fast, super accurate.

In June 2023, the subcommittee told Morens to turn over copies of all official communications regarding issues raised by the panel's investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. He sent over 2,000 pages of such documents.

Sounds like a lot, right? Subcommittee investigators, however, knew Morens was holding back tons of information, so a subpoena was issued to him to cough up the rest of the documents sought in the investigation. Morens then turned over 30,000 more pages!

But even with the 33,000 pages of documents Morens eventually produced, there is far more to this story than his obvious refusal to cooperate fully with legitimate congressional oversight.

Check out just a few of the hundreds of key emails from Morens, beginning with this one sent via his iPhone on April 21, 2021, to schedule a Zoom meeting. Topics to be discussed included "Political letters" and "CoV research in China."

The meeting came at a time when congressional, law enforcement and medical sleuths were actively questioning Fauci's official claim that COVID-19, which has killed more than 1 million Americans since January 2020, originated from bats in China, where the disease first began affecting humans:

P.S. I forgot to say there is no worry about FOIAs. I can either send stuff to Tony on his private email or hand it to him at the office. He is too smart to let colleagues send him stuff that could cause trouble.

Then there is this from a Nov. 21, 2021, missive:

I forgot to clarify in my email yesterday that BOTH my gmail and phone calls are safe. Text is NOT, as it can be FOIA'd, as can my govt. email ... So you and Peter and others should be able to email me on gmail only, with the caveat that no other govt. employee is copied at a govt. address, as all govt emails are potentially FOIAable.

And there is this damning message from Feb. 24, 2021:

You are right, I need to be more careful. However, as I mentioned once before, I learned from my foia lady here how to make emails disappear after I am foia'd but before the search starts, so I think we are all safe. Plus, I deleted most of those earlier emails after sending them to gmail.

The select subcommittee said emails like these demonstrate that Morens displayed "a systemic and troubling pattern of avoiding transparency by routinely directing others to communicate with him via a personal email address to avoid to avoid the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Additionally, Dr. Morens apparently took steps, with the assistance of NIH FOIA officers, to shield his official emails from public transparency."

By the way, Morens also says in a Feb. 25, 2021, message that those NIH FOIA officers helping him circumvent the law included "Marg Moore, who heads our FOIA office and also hates the FOIA."

Think about this stuff: Congress passed and the president signed into law the FOIA, which declared that all federal documents are public property and available on request to every American citizen, subject only to a few reasonable exceptions such as national security, personal privacy and protection of commercial secrets.

But Morens, with the active assistance of NIH colleagues who are paid by the taxpayers to administer the FOIA law, which guarantees public access to publicly owned documents, including federal workers' emails, text messages, memoranda, and other communications, not only actively flouted the law but also boasted about it to colleagues and helped them break the law as well.

I have a confession to make: I've been in Washington since 1976, first as a congressional aide, then as a Reagan political appointee, and, ever since 1985, a career journalist seeking to shine the light of truth and fact in the dark corners of government, regardless of who suffers justified public opprobrium or legal punishment as a consequence.

I have also devoted countless hours over many years in my journalism career to improving the FOIA, cooperating with professional journalism organizations and transparency advocacy groups on the Left and Right. I've also testified before the Senate and the House on behalf of FOIA improvements. The people have a right to know.

But one of the key reasons government people like Hillary Clinton and David Morens (and make no mistake, there are Republicans who do it, too) so casually trample on the FOIA law without fear of consequences is the fact the FOIA has no penalties for its violation. Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe no federal employee has ever gone to jail for violating the FOIA.

This is no partisan issue. Rep. John Moss, a Democrat from California, was the main force behind the FOIA in Congress. One of the main co-sponsors was then-Rep. Donald Rumsfeldyes, that onewho served four terms as a Republican representative from Illinois before his White House/DOD tenures.

Democrats and Republicans in government talk endlessly about their support for transparency and accountability in government. Who among them will "put their money where their mouths are" by introducing legislation to prosecute and, on showing proof beyond a reasonable doubt, convict and punish government employees who violate the FOIA?

Mark Tapscott is an award-winning veteran investigative journalist who covers Congress for The Epoch Times, and the founding editor of HillFaith, the website of a Christian apologetics ministry devoted to presenting the Gospel of Jesus Christ to congressional aides in the nations capital.

Mark was admitted to the National Freedom of Information Act Hall of Fame class of 2006, and he was named the Conservative Journalist of the Year in 2008 by CPAC. He was a consulting editor on the Colorado Springs Gazette Pulitzer Prize-winning series Other Than Honorable in 2014.

Prior to his journalism career, Mark worked for President Ronald Reagan as communications director at the Republican National Committee and as Assistant Director for Public Affairs at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. He worked for a U.S. senator and two representatives prior to joining the Reagan-Bush campaign in 1980
ASCA is opposed to the Federal Trade Commission's "Non-Compete Clause Rule," which will ban noncompete agreements Sept. 4, according to an article written in ASC Focus.

The association, which represents ASCs across the U.S., submitted a comment to the FTC opposing the final rule, stating "surgery centers and other tax-paying healthcare providers would be subject to restrictions that tax-exempt systems would not."

The comment further noted the final rule allows nonprofit hospitals to "more aggressively engage in noncompetitive behavior" and possibly interfere with the physician's ability to leave the hospital and join an ASC. For-profit businesses are subject to the noncompete ban while charitable businesses may not be; the FTC will decide as much on a case-by-case basis.

ASCA isn't the only healthcare association opposed to the final rule; the American Hospital Association and Federation of American Hospitals also made public statements against implementation. However, the American Academy of Family Physicians supports the final rule and the American Medical Association hasn't chosen sides.

ASCA expects legal challenges to the final rule and will "monitor the progress of lawsuits."
Russia quietly got rid of dozens of buoys in the Narva River that served as border markers with NATO ally Estonia.

Estonia accused Russia of removing 24 of 50 buoys overnight Wednesday which separate the two countries, according to Bloomberg.

The floating markers were placed on the river by Estonian authorities May 13 to help small boats navigate the water without deviating into Russian territory, the country said, according to the outlet.

"This year, Russia announced that they would not agree with the locations of about half of the planned" buoys, Estonia's border guard service said in a statement, The Moscow Times reported.

On Thursday, Estonian "border guards detected that the border guards of the Russian Federation had begun to remove floating markers," the statement continued.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas said government officials were investigating the incident, which comes a day after Russia deleted an online draft decree that would've shifted the borders of the Baltic Sea and expanded the country's maritime territory.

Had the Russians moved forward with the drafted boundaries, they would have encroached on territories belonging to Finland and Lithuania.

"Russia uses tools related to the border to create fear and anxiety, with which to sow insecurity in our societies," Kallas said. "We see a broader pattern of this."
Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic plans to deliver medications and supplies by drones to hospital-at-home patients.

Drone delivery company Zipline said May 21 that it will use its electric, autonomous drones to drop off items from the hospital to a patient's home. For example, a hospital-at-home patient could see a physician via a virtual visit then have a drone deliver a prescription a few minutes later.

"This innovative use of drones not only reduces costs by minimizing the need for traditional transportation but also expedites care, ensuring that essential medical supplies and medications reach patients promptly," Michael Maniaci, MD, chief clinical officer of advanced care at home for Mayo Clinic, told Becker's. "By leveraging drones, Mayo Clinic enhances its ability to provide timely, efficient, and high-quality healthcare, ultimately improving patient outcomes and satisfaction."

The program will start with Mayo Clinic's hospital-at-home program in Jacksonville, Fla., and general logistics in Florida and Minnesota, with future expansions possible for Mayo locations in Wisconsin and Arizona, Dr. Maniaci said. The delivery will likely start with basic supplies such as bandages, bottles and tubes, before moving on to items that require more regulatory approval, including lab work and medications. The drone platform could go live as soon as 2025.
Mount Sinai researchers discovered that generative AI like GPT-4 can predict hospital admissions for emergency room patients with minimal training and limited data.

As part of a study, researchers from the Icahn School of Medicine at New York City-based Mount Sinai analyzed records from more than 864,000 emergency room visits across seven Mount Sinai Health System hospitals. Using structured data, such as vital signs, and unstructured data, such as nurse triage notes, researchers developed models to predict hospital admissions. Out of the total of emergency room visits analyzed, 18.5% resulted in hospital admissions, according to a May 21 news release from Mount Sinai.

The researchers evaluated GPT-4's performance against traditional machine-learning models such as Bio-Clinical-BERT for text analysis and XGBoost for structured data. They explored various scenarios, assessing GPT-4's ability to predict admissions both independently and when combined with traditional methods.

The researchers found that unlike traditional machine-learning models that require millions of records for training, large language models like GPT-4 could effectively learn from just a few examples.

They also noted that large language models could incorporate predictions from traditional models, essentially enhancing their performance.

The full study was published on May 21 in the online issue of the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association.
Juneau, Alaska-based Bartlett Regional Hospital is considering cutting back or closing six programs due to financial strain, Juneau Empire reported May 24.

The facility has suffered operating losses every year since 2000, when the City and Borough of Juneau transferred management of the facility to the hospital, according to the report. The hospital will hold a series of meetings and public comment events in coming months as it crafts plans for "non-core hospital services in light of the hospital's $10M annual budget deficit," Joe Wanner, Bartlett's chief financial officer, said in a presentation. The hospital's fund balance could be depleted in three years without significant changes.

Here are the six programs the hospital is considering closing or reducing along with some of the reasoning:

Rainforest Recovery Center, a 16-bed residential and outpatient substance abuse treatment program that is expected to lose nearly $800,000 next year.





ABA therapy, a program for individuals with autism, is expected to lose $536,000 next year due to payroll costs alone exceeding revenues. This Juneau School District program was taken over by Bartlett in June 2021 from a private contractor and the hospital said there are others planning to provide similar services in coming months.





Crisis Observation Services/Crisis Residential and Stabilization Services for Adults and Adolescents, due to facility layout and staffing, has only served adolescents.





Bartlett Outpatient Psychiatric Services is projected to lose $2.8 million next year, however the center plans to reduce or subsidize costs as preferred remedies to closing.





Home Health Services





Hospice Services

Home health and hospice services are vital to the community and Bartlett is attempting to find private companies that could take them over. Some board members said they want Barlett to continue operating them at a loss if necessary.

The board of directors is expected to approve the final recommendations for programs at its June 25 meeting.

Bartlett is still searching for a new CEO, the fourth leader in less than a year.
New York City-based Mount Sinai has submitted a revised July 12 closure plan for Beth Israel Hospital to the New York Department of Health after hitting several road bumps since it submitted the initial plan to close in October.

The revised plan comes after the health department informed Mount Sinai that its plan submitted in October was incomplete and asked for a new, comprehensive plan to be submitted.

"They asked us to provide additional information about the hospital's finance, our engagement with local leaders, our engagement with other partner hospitals, and some details about patient volume and clinical services," Brendan Carr, MD, CEO of Mount Sinai Health System, said in a May 23 email shared with employees and obtained by Becker's. "Today, we submitted a very detailed revision of our closure plan to DOH that we believe provides specific answers to their questions."

Beth Israel currently only has $29 million remaining in cash reserves due to significant losses. A "going concern" opinion will also be issued by the hospital's independent auditor to indicate the "substantial doubt" of Beth Israel's ability to remain operational over the next 12 months, the closure plan stated.

The plan includes the opening of an urgent care center with extended hours and services once the hospital closes. The health system will help New York City-based Bellevue Hospital renovate its emergency department, develop and maintain more care services, and acquire an additional CT scanner to help offset any impact from Beth Israel's closure.

In his letter to employees, Dr. Carr also addressed a lawsuit that was filed against both the health department and Mount Sinai to keep the hospital open.

"...a few weeks ago we filed a Motion to Dismiss the lawsuit, as we do not believe the court has the right to keep the hospital open against its will," Dr. Carr said. "We will continue to argue our case because we strongly believe we have done things the correct way and that the DOH, not the court system, is the regulatory authority for hospitals. In the meantime, we are complying with the court orders."

The health department has received Mount Sinai's revised closure plan but can not provide further comment until its review is complete, a spokesperson for the health department said in a statement shared with Becker's.
Kodiak Solutions said in a May 21 report that if payers used consistent criteria for making prior authorization/preficiation claim denials, the denial rates would be similar across all payer categories.

"That would make it easier for providers to learn from those denials, reduce their overall initial denial rates and spend fewer resources appealing prior auth/precert denials because of conflicting and ever-changing payment criteria," the report said

Kodiak analyzed prior authorization inpatient claims denials over the past three years and found rates varied by payer category. The company's revenue cycle analytics software monitors patient financial transactions from more than 1,850 hospitals and 250,000 physicians nationwide.

"Assuming that patients medical conditions and severity of illness are generally the same across payer types and that providers generally diagnose and treat them the same way, the data suggests that payers are using different criteria to make prior auth/precert claims determinations," the report said.

Here are the prior authorization and personification inpatient claim denial rate by payer category:

Medicaid managed care

2021: 4.25%

2022: 4.40%

2023: 4.17%

Traditional Medicaid

2021: 2.79%

2022: 2.36%

2023: 3.16%

Medicare Advantage

2021: 2.36%

2022: 2.95%

2023: 2.69%

Commercial

2021: 1.71%

2022: 2.23%

2023: 2.25%

Traditional Medicare

2021: 0.09%

2022: 0.16%

2023: 0.16%
Andrew Gaasch was appointed president for Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health's Mountain Region, effective May 20.

Mr. Gaasch, a veteran of CommonSpirit, has spent more than a year as executive vice president and CFO of the Mountain Region.

In his new role, he will lead the region, which includes 20 hospitals, 260 clinics and 16,000 employees in Colorado, Kansas and Utah, according to a health system news release shared with Becker's.

"His strategic vision and thought leadership will be pivotal as we pursue growth targets for revenue and market share, identify opportunities to expand our ministry within the region, and build high-performing leadership teams across the region, markets and hospitals," the release said. "Andrew will also provide strategic guidance to the medical and ambulatory groups as the region implements CommonSpirit's quality and patient safety initiatives."
Patient trust is an essential yet delicate part of healthcare, with many factors affecting just how strong that trust is.

One such factor that can dissuade a patient's trust in their healthcare provider is the level of understanding that a patient has regarding their health information.

It is estimated that 90 million Americans have low health literacy, an issue that can lead to confusion and anxiety should a patient not be provided with the proper tools to understand the personal information in front of them.

Becker's connected with multiple health system CEOs to discuss the importance of bridging the trust gap with patients through initiatives like utilizing AI technologies and health equity dashboards to improve patient health literacy.

Editor's note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Question: How can we improve patient health literacy and increase their trust in health systems?

Rob Allen, President and CEO, Intermountain Health (Salt Lake City, Utah)

Rob Allen: Improving health literacy and simplifying the health journey are central to fulfilling our mission at Intermountain Health. Our commitment to health extends well beyond the walls of our hospitals and clinics and into the communities we serve. We strive to ensure our caregivers reflect these communities and offer culturally competent care, respecting and understanding each patient's unique journey. By enhancing health literacy, we empower patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, which in turn builds trust. Trust is further strengthened through transparency, excellence, living our values, and investing in the communities we serve.

Marty Bonick, President and CEO of Ardent Health (Nashville, Tenn.)

Marty Bonick: It's critical that providers take meaningful steps to make healthcare easier to access and navigate  namely, investing in services and infrastructure that help consumers find care when and where its most convenient. At Ardent, we are expanding programs that help patients stay connected to care teams between appointments to manage chronic conditions, monitor health changes remotely and access needed services outside of our facilities.

We are also utilizing AI technology to help identify patients who may need assistance overcoming social determinants of health and connect them with community resources to help fill gaps outside our care  helping them stay healthy and out of the hospital. With an emphasis on technology and care outside the hospital, our teams are finding new ways to empower patients and create more access points across our network. Our shared vision as an industry should be to build a consumer-centered healthcare ecosystem that makes healthcare a convenient part of daily life.

Marc Miller, President & CEO of Universal Health Services (King of Prussia, Pa.)

Marc Miller: We recognize that health literacy can significantly impact the overall health of patients. Patient experience is a key area of focus in improving health literacy, as we aim to foster at each facility a culture of kindness, understanding and compassion. We hold our staff to high expectations  namely, to demonstrate service excellence, each and every day, at each and every encounter.

Secondly, we prioritize making care accessible, by offering convenient locations, creating referral infrastructures that support access to care, and employing bilingual staff at many of our facilities. And at the crux of this is our quality outcome monitoring. Our health equity dashboard provides insight into how social determinants of health, which affect health literacy, can impact outcomes of care. By incorporating social determinants of health into our readmission reduction and OB quality dashboards, we can monitor their impact on these quality outcomes. Where appropriate, we roll out updated approaches across our network in order to optimize outcomes.

Cliff A. Megerian, MD, Chief Executive Officer, University Hospitals (Cleveland), Jane and Henry Meyer Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair

Dr. Cliff Megerian: It's sometimes easy as healthcare professionals to get bogged down in our own technical jargon when communicating with patients. However, a medical term that's a form of shorthand for us can cause confusion and loss of engagement when used in a conversation with them. To promote health literacy, we cant let that happen. Every provider, no matter their role, should strive for clear, succinct, jargon-free communication. The gold standard is to sit down, look the patient in the eye and have a fruitful conversation.

At the health system level, we can also boost health literacy through carefully constructing and curating the content we post online. Our websites are our digital front door  the content there should be engaging, easy to read and answer nearly every question for those who are seeking care. An approach like this yields the engagement we all want. At UH, for example, our Science of Health blog features content you might find in a national health magazine and enjoys well over 1 million page views each month on average. When content is helpful, people keep coming back, building trust and gaining insight.

Of course, building our patients' health literacy also takes place during the care journey itself. Navigators reach out proactively to our patients daily, educating them on the screenings they need or how best to manage their diabetes or COPD. Sometimes this takes the form of calls between case managers and patients along with community support agencies, which helps the patient have successful interactions with the agency. One-on-one education to go over care plans or to prep questions for an upcoming provider appointment is also a mainstay. In some cases, in fact, caregivers from population health accompany patients to their appointments to provide education and support.

Through a new initiative, were also recruiting and then placing community health workers in their home communities, where they can serve their friends and neighbors of similar background. Along the way, our bet is that these trusting relationships will result in healthier, more informed patients who take the lead in their own care  something we all want.
Daniel Morrisette, CFO of Chicago-based CommonSpirit, said he doesn't expect the health system to purchase Dallas-based Steward Health Care's Arizona assets, but said they are evaluating potential opportunities.

"There are opportunities that occur in many of our markets and Arizona is one of our most important markets and one that we are putting in as much time and resources as possible," Mr. Morrisette said on the health system's May 23 call. "I do not anticipate us purchasing the Steward assets there, but we do look at these opportunities on a consistent basis."

The question was posed by an investor. Steward placed its 31 U.S. hospitals up for purchase after the health system filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in early May. The for-profit system owns four hospitals in Arizona.

"Our focus really is on what will help our market succeed and bolster market position," Lisa Zuckerman, CommonSpirit's senior vice president of treasury, capital planning and strategic investments, said on the call. "That and EBITDA are really the lens with which we would look at potential opportunities, so a lot of those probably would not make the bar. But we will see."

Mr. Morissette said that Steward's landlord, Medical Properties Trust, had sold at least 25% of Steward's Utah assets to a third party. There are other assets that MPT has in Arizona that he said CommonSpirit is "certainly evaluating if it makes sense for us to acquire them rather than continue with our lease payments."

"We have made no commitments yet," he said. "What we're talking about now is a significant dollar amount, but it's not as material as the Utah assets would have been. We are looking at it, considering it and at the right price would be interested in it if it's in our strategic interest  particularly in Arizona."

In court documents filed May 15 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, Steward set a bid deadline for all of its hospitals, excluding the facilities in Florida, for June 24. The auction date for the "first round hospitals" is June 27 and the sale hearing is set for July 2.
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont met with the CEOs of Yale New Haven (Conn.) Health and Los Angeles-based Prospect Medical Holdings in an effort to get a proposed 3-hospital deal back on track and out of the courtroom, The Trumbull Times reported May 23.

Yale New Haven signed a deal in November 2022 to acquire the three Connecticut hospitals for $435 million. But after seeing Prospect suffer a cyberattack in August and discovering that Prospect owes $67 million in taxes and has failed to pay physicians working at the hospitals and vendors, Yale wanted to alter the purchase price, which has not been reached. Yale New Haven is now suing Prospect to get out of the deal.

At the governor's request, Yale New Haven Health CEO Chris OConnor and Prospect Medical Holdings CEO Von Crockett met at the state capitol on May 22, according to the report. Details of the meeting  which lasted about an hour  are slim, but a spokesperson for the governor said this was the first time the two CEOs were in the same room together, "which we view as a sign of progress."

Officials from Birmingham, Ala.-based Medical Properties Trust were also present, according to the report. Prospect sold the land and buildings of its Connecticut hospitals to Medical Properties Trust and before leasing them back to pay back a $1.12 billion mortgage.

A certificate of need for the sale was approved in March, but if the terms of the deal change, a new application would need to be submitted for approval, according to the report. Yale New Haven Health had sought $80 million in state funding to help facilitate the transaction, but the governor's office has stood firm that "the state is not offering any funding as part of the deal."
Resident and fellow physicians employed by Kaiser Permanente hospitals in Northern California voted to join the Committee of Interns and Residents, a local chapter of the Service Employees International Union.

Nearly all participating voters (99%) cast ballots in favor of unionization, according to a May 23 CIR/SEIU news release.

The National Labor Relations Board has not yet certified the results. Pending certification, the total percentage of residents represented by CIR/SEIU in California will reach 82%, according to the union.

Kaiser Permanente works with more than 40 unions that represent nearly 80% of its employees, according to its website. The physicians covered by the recent vote work across campuses in San Francisco, Santa Clara and other Northern California locations.

"When programs across Kaiser Northern California collected hundreds of signatures calling attention to our struggles with the region's skyrocketing cost of living, many of our concerns were brushed aside," Apoorva Dharmadhikari, MD, a second-year resident in internal medicine at Santa Clara, said in the release. "With union representation, we don't have to settle for silence. We can demand better for ourselves and our patients."

Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente shared the following statement with Becker's: "Kaiser Permanente respects the rights of our employees to choose to be represented by a union, and we have a strong record of working constructively with the unions that our employees elect to represent them. Yesterday, votes were tallied in a secret ballot election supervised by the National Labor Relations Board, and a majority of Kaiser Permanente Northern California's approximately 450 residents, chief residents, fellows, and chief fellows have elected to be represented by the Committee of Interns and Residents  Service Employees International Union. We are awaiting certification of the election results by the NLRB. Once the election is certified, we look forward to working constructively with the CIR-SEIU going forward."
The historic Supreme Court ruling Brown v. Board of Education which launched the integration of the nation's school system has been blasted by Justice Clarence Thomas as an "extravagant use of judicial power."

He made the stunning pronouncement in his ruling for the Supreme Court majority which refused in a 6-3 decision Thursday to order redrawn South Carolina congressional boundaries that had been attacked as racially gerrymandered to tip the scales in favor of white voters.

Thomas not only argued to let stand the legislative mapping in his concurrent ruling with Justice Samuel Alito, he also  again  attacked the landmark Supreme Court decision that ordered schools integrated to give all children access to the same quality of education.

The 1954 decision, whose 70th anniversary was celebrated last week, held that racial segregation in public education violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution.

As Thomas argued against Supreme Court interference in the controversial congression boundaries he took sharp shots at Brown v. Board of Education, which he views as the start of court's overreach.

"The court's impatience with the pace of desegregation" in that case "led us to approve extraordinary remedial measures," he wrote in his decision.

He claimed the desegration decision represented the court's wrong-headed "boundless view of equitable remedies," as it mobilized "flexible power to invent whatever new remedies may seem useful at the time."

Just as he believes the court overstepped responding to school segration under the Constitution's Equal Protection clause, he sees no role for the Supreme Court to adjuciated legislative districts viewed as gerrymandered, he argues. He argued that the court should "abandon" any such cases.

"In my view, the Court has no power to decide these types of claims," he wrote. "Drawing political districts is a task for politicians, not federal judges," he argued.

Justice Elena Kagan wrote in a withering dissent that the ruling will allow the continuation of "this 'odious' practice of sorting citizens, built on racial generalizations and exploiting racial divisions."

Thomas is already under fire following accusations of distrubing conflict of interest amid revelations that he enjoyed a number of costly trips paid for by Republican mega donors.

His wife, Virginia Thomas, is also a major rightwing activist who has baselessly argued that the presidential election lost by Donald Trump was rigged.

Justice Alito is under attack for two controversial flags hoisted by Jan. 6 insurrectionists flown at his Virginia home, and at a New Jersey vacation home.
Piedmont Columbus (Ga.) Regional Midtown is one of the first U.S. hospitals to administer Tzield, a newly approved therapy that delays the progression of Type 1 diabetes by two to seven years.

West Georgia resident Ella Velez, 15, is among the first pediatric patients in the world to receive the medication, according to a May 23 news release from Atlanta-based Piedmont Healthcare. With the help of endocrinologist Steven Leichter, MD, Ella received infusions for 14 days.

Piedmont Columbus Regional is the first hospital in the U.S. to develop a screening process for patients who might be candidates for Tzield, the release said. In fall 2024, the 24-hospital system will open a children's hospital that will have the capability to offer the medication to more patients.
Healthgrades recently released its rankings for the best hospitals in the U.S. for spine surgery, including three in New York.

The rankings recognize hospitals that deliver superior patient outcomes in back and neck surgeries and spinal fusion.

Read more on the publication's ranking methodology here.

Here are the leaders of the New York hospitals and health systems that were included in the rankings:

Hospital for Special Surgery (New York City)

Bryan Kelly, MD, president, CEO and surgeon-in-chief emeritus

Douglas Padgett, MD, medical director and surgeon-in-chief

Stacey Malakoff, executive vice president and treasurer

Irene Koch, executive vice president, chief legal officer and secretary

Trinity Health Saint Joseph's Hospital Health Center (Syracuse)

Steven Hanks, MD, president and CEO

Laurel Baum, chief integrity and compliance officer

Mark Murphy, vice president and chief strategy officer

Thomas Robert, vice president and CFO

Trinity Health Saint Peter's Hospital (Albany)
Exclusive | Belfast filmmaker refuses to say if Iran is paying him as he is special guest in Tehran alongside sanctioned Wagner group figure

Prior to his death, Iranian president had been considering attending event where Mr Murray is an honoured guest, indicating its importance to the repressive regime  but Mr Murray wont answer questions about his actions

Filmmaker Sean Murray (centre) at the Sobh Festival in Tehran, Iran. Photo: Sobh Festival

Sam McBride Fri 24 May 2024 at 07:20

Prominent Belfast filmmaker Sean Murray has refused to say if he is getting money from Iran as he dodged questions on being a "special guest" at an event in Tehran alongside individuals sanctioned by the US and the EU.
Critics praise Tom Holland in Romeo And Juliet but question minimalism of set (Yui Mok/PA)

The West End production of Romeo And Juliet saw star Tom Holland praised for his performance, while the adaption overall received mixed reviews due to director Jamie Lloyds stripped-back style.

Spider-Man actor Holland was sporting a shorter haircut for his leading role as Romeo Montague opposite Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet Capulet in Lloyds production of Shakespeares romantic tragedy.

The cast celebrated the productions opening night on Thursday at the Duke of York Theatre as Holland was pictured leaving the theatre with girlfriend and Hollywood star Zendaya on his arm.

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The Times critic Clive Davis awarded the production three stars out of five, opening the review by questioning if Hollands fans will be left feeling short-changed due to the actors being shown on screens at times during the production instead of always on stage.

The USP of this latest Jamie Lloyd production is, after all, the opportunity to see one of the biggest stars of multiplex cinema in the flesh, Davis writes.

All credit to the Brit who plays Spider-Man on the big screen for taking on the challenge of performing modern-dress Shakespeare in the West End.

But given how much Lloyd enjoys using digital technology, Hollands admirers may wonder why they spend a fair amount of the evening watching their idol on a screen.

He adds that he feels Holland certainly doesnt disgrace himself when playing the quiet, fresh-faced and sensitive take on Romeo, but he feels the director is the dominant figure in the production due to how he has reinvented the Shakespearean classic.

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Critic Patrick Marmion, writing for the Daily Mail, gave the production four out of five stars. He acknowledged that it is following a trend of celebrity minimalism, such as Nicole Scherzinger in Sunset Boulevard.

He said Lloyds adaption only requires Holland to reach the giddy heights of a microphone stand, but said the smile he scatters on his beloved are  in Hollywood terms  worth a million dollars, while Amewudah-Rivers holds up well as Juliet.

Mr Marmion described the production as monotone, monochrome and mannered, adding he missed the colour of the masked ball where Romeo and Juliet meet, and the drama of the sword fight when Romeo calamitously kills Juliets cousin Tybalt.

David Benedict from Variety said that although it began undeniably arresting with the captivating relationship between Holland and Amewudah-Rivers, it gradually hits you that theyre reciting words at, rather than to, the audience.

The critic suggests this is due to the fiercely stripped-down aesthetic in Lloyds adaptation, with the most attention-grabbing element being sound.

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The result, worryingly, is the absence of anything approaching connectionBoth actors are hobbled by the logical (over) extension of Lloyds approach, he said.

Meanwhile, the Telegraphs theatre critic Dominic Cavendish gave the production a full five stars.

Tom Holland mesmerises in this once-in-a-generation production, he said.

The part marks 27-year-old Hollands first major theatre role since his debut as a child star in Billy Elliot: The Musical at the Victoria Palace Theatre in 2008.

Arifa Akbar, a critic for the Guardian, gave the production three out of five stars, suggesting Holland navigates the transition from Marvels Spider-Man to Shakespeares Romeo smoothly.

The chemistry is most definitely there, even if it feels deliberately restrained in Jamie Lloyds turbo-stylised production, she said.

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While the deliberate underplaying of emotion ultimately leeches the play of its tragedy, with an end that leaves you in dry-eyed admiration, she added.

The Independents Tim Bano gave the adaption two out of five stars.

This is less Jamie Lloyd does Shakespeare, more Jamie Lloyd does Jamie Lloyd,  he said.

Mr Bano said there were no blow-away performances, suggesting the actors were constricted by the production thats been built around them.

As much as its meant to be a stripping back, soon those cameras, the constant murmuring, the grinding sounds, the need to be cool all the time gets in the way of performances. It imposes too much on them rather than liberating them.

Love is a many-splendoured thing, not a mutter into a mic, he said.

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Last month, the theatre company behind the West End production condemned deplorable racial abuse directed towards one of its stars.

Romeo And Juliet has been staged hundreds of times in the West End and The Crown actor Josh OConnor and Irish star Jessie Buckley appeared in a version of the play, filmed for TV inside the National Theatre in 2021.

Other actors to play Romeo on stage include Harry Potter star Alfred Enoch, Lord Of The Rings actor Sir Ian McKellen, Game Of Thrones Sean Bean and Bodyguard actor Richard Madden.

Holland is world-famous for playing the title role in the latest Spider-Man superhero movies, including Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) and Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019).

He has also starred in the psychological thriller The Crowded Room and the historical drama Wolf Hall on TV.

Romeo And Juliet will run at the Duke Of Yorks Theatre until August 3.
Spider-Man actor Tom Holland has been praised for his mesmerising performance in the new West End staging of Romeo and Juliet.

However, the production of Shakespeares tragedy has received mixed reviews for its monochrome palette and pared-down style.

British star Holland was supported by his Hollywood actress girlfriend Zendaya for the opening night of the play at the Duke of York Theatre, which stars Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet.

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The Times critic Clive Davis awarded the production three stars out of five, opening the review by questioning if Hollands fans will be left feeling short-changed due to the actors being shown on screens at times during the production instead of always on stage.

The USP of this latest Jamie Lloyd production is, after all, the opportunity to see one of the biggest stars of multiplex cinema in the flesh, Davis writes.

All credit to the Brit who plays Spider-Man on the big screen for taking on the challenge of performing modern-dress Shakespeare in the West End.

But given how much Lloyd enjoys using digital technology, Hollands admirers may wonder why they spend a fair amount of the evening watching their idol on a screen.

He adds that he feels Holland certainly doesnt disgrace himself when playing the quiet, fresh-faced and sensitive take on Romeo, but he feels the director is the dominant figure in the production due to how he has reinvented the Shakespearean classic.

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Critic Patrick Marmion, writing for the Daily Mail, gave the production four out of five stars. He acknowledged that it is following a trend of celebrity minimalism, such as Nicole Scherzinger in Sunset Boulevard.

He said Lloyds adaption only requires Holland to reach the giddy heights of a microphone stand, but said the smile he scatters on his beloved are  in Hollywood terms  worth a million dollars, while Amewudah-Rivers holds up well as Juliet.

Mr Marmion described the production as monotone, monochrome and mannered, adding he missed the colour of the masked ball where Romeo and Juliet meet, and the drama of the sword fight when Romeo calamitously kills Juliets cousin Tybalt.

David Benedict from Variety said that although it began undeniably arresting with the captivating relationship between Holland and Amewudah-Rivers, it gradually hits you that theyre reciting words at, rather than to, the audience.

The critic suggests this is due to the fiercely stripped-down aesthetic in Lloyds adaptation, with the most attention-grabbing element being sound.

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The result, worryingly, is the absence of anything approaching connection Both actors are hobbled by the logical (over) extension of Lloyds approach, he said.

Meanwhile, the Telegraphs theatre critic Dominic Cavendish gave the production a full five stars.

Tom Holland mesmerises in this once-in-a-generation production, he said.

The part marks 27-year-old Hollands first major theatre role since his debut as a child star in Billy Elliot: The Musical at the Victoria Palace Theatre in 2008.

Arifa Akbar, a critic for the Guardian, gave the production three out of five stars, suggesting Holland navigates the transition from Marvels Spider-Man to Shakespeares Romeo smoothly.

The chemistry is most definitely there, even if it feels deliberately restrained in Jamie Lloyds turbo-stylised production, she said.

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While the deliberate underplaying of emotion ultimately leeches the play of its tragedy, with an end that leaves you in dry-eyed admiration, she added.

The Independents Tim Bano gave the adaption two out of five stars.

This is less Jamie Lloyd does Shakespeare, more Jamie Lloyd does Jamie Lloyd,  he said.

Mr Bano said there were no blow-away performances, suggesting the actors were constricted by the production thats been built around them.

As much as its meant to be a stripping back, soon those cameras, the constant murmuring, the grinding sounds, the need to be cool all the time gets in the way of performances. It imposes too much on them rather than liberating them.

Love is a many-splendoured thing, not a mutter into a mic, he said.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content

Last month, the theatre company behind the West End production condemned deplorable racial abuse directed towards one of its stars.

Romeo And Juliet has been staged hundreds of times in the West End and The Crown actor Josh OConnor and Irish star Jessie Buckley appeared in a version of the play, filmed for TV inside the National Theatre in 2021.

Other actors to play Romeo on stage include Harry Potter star Alfred Enoch, Lord Of The Rings actor Sir Ian McKellen, Game Of Thrones Sean Bean and Bodyguard actor Richard Madden.

Holland is world-famous for playing the title role in the latest Spider-Man superhero movies, including Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) and Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019).

He has also starred in the psychological thriller The Crowded Room and the historical drama Wolf Hall on TV.

Romeo And Juliet will run at the Duke Of Yorks Theatre until August 3.
Supernanny at 20: Is the naughty step out of date or do we still need Jo Frosts help?
The Kremlin quickly shot down Donald Trump's boast that he could free a Wall Street journalist Evan Gershkovich imprisoned in Russia if he won the presidential election.

The former president, who often praises Vladimir Putin and has voiced doubts about U.S. support for Ukraine, said that the Russian leader "will do that for me, but not for anyone else."

Trump claimed in a post on Truth Social that Gershkovich "will be released almost immediately after the election, but definitely before I assume office."

But Trump couldn't have any idea about what Russia might do regarding Gershkovich because the Kremlin has had no contact with the former president regarding the prisoner, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, Reuters reported. Nor has he spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Putin has "naturally not had contacts with Donald Trump," Peskov told reporters.

In any case, no one negotiating for Gershkovic's release would discuss it because such talks would be held in "total secrecy," Peskov emphasized.

"Regarding [US-Russian] contacts on the matter of incarcerated and convicted individuals, we can say that these contacts must be carried out in total secrecy. This is the only way they can be effective," he explained.

Trump's comments were ridiculed by President Joe Biden's campaign, which cited Trump's frequent criticism of the news media as an "enemy of the people"  and his often expressed extremely high regard for Putin, reported the Guardian.

Trump has called Putin's invasion of Ukraine a "work of genius," and he told a Bronx Rally on Thursday that the deadly Russian leader was "at the top of his game."

"Donald Trump doesn't give a damn about the innocent Americans unjustly imprisoned by Vladimir Putin," Biden campaign adviser T.J. Ducklo wrote in an email to the Guardian.

In late 2023, the Biden administration announced that it had made a "significant proposal" to Russia to secure Gershkovich's release, likely as part of a prisoner swap, but that Moscow rejected it.

Gershkovich, 32, has been detained in Moscow's infamous Lefortovo prison for over a year following his arrest while on a reporting assignment.
UK

If you want your new puppy to get along with your cat, introduce them gradually
Graffiti at King's Park Primary School in Newtownabbey has now been dealt with by Antrim and Newtownabbey Council.

Those responsible for the daubing of hate graffiti at the front of a Co Antrim primary School have been told racism has no place in our society.

The graffiti  depicting an anti-immigration and anti-asylum seeker message  was discovered just outside the gates at Kings Park Primary School in Newtownabbey before children were due to arrive at the school.

The PSNI said they are treating the incident as a hate crime.

The school Board of Governors said those at the school had been made aware of the message left on the footpath outside the school boundary and in no way reflected the ethos of the school

We are extremely saddened and disappointed to see this act of vandalism outside the grounds of our school, the Board of Governors said.

Our school is a safe, friendly environment where everyone is welcomed, supported and encouraged to be the best they can be.

This act of vandalism is at total odds with who we are as a school and as a community and with what we teach our children.

The school said the graffiti was quickly removed.

We are engaging with all appropriate agencies to ensure this matter is resolved and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council have now dealt with the graffiti, the Board of Governors added.

Local Sinn Fein councillor Rosie Kinnear, Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Council, slammed those responsible for painting what she called racist hate graffiti at the Newtownabbey school, adding that children should be allowed to feel safe in school.

Cllr Kinnear said: I condemn unreservedly those responsible for painting racist graffiti at Kings Park Primary School in Newtownabbey.

This is outrageous, racism has no place in our society, and it beggars belief that anyone would target primary school children and staff in this way. Schools should be safe places for children.

These actions are wrong and unacceptable to the people of this area and wider society and they need to stop.

I call on anyone with information on those responsible to bring it forward to the police.

Police are now appealing for information following a report of criminal damage in the Kings Drive area of Newtownabbey.

It was reported shortly after 6am that graffiti had been discovered on a tarmac area outside one of the entrances to a primary school. This is being treated as a racially-motivated hate crime at this stage, a PSNI spokesperson said.

Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to call 101 quoting reference number 162 24/05/24.
Heartbreaking gathering for murdered mum

The heartbroken parents of murder victim Kathryn Kat Parton have attended a vigil in memory of their daughter.

Friends and family of the 34-year-old, who was found dead in her Madrid Street home in east Belfast last week, gathered at Island Hill nature reserve in Comber on Friday evening to share stories of the mum-of-one.

Samantha Rutherford (35) organised the emotional vigil during which loved ones held a minutes silence before releasing sky lanterns into the air.

Ive known Kathryn for about 16 years  this is where she grew up and a lot of people have memories of her here, she told the Belfast Telegraph.

Kathryn was so funny, she was always laughing and giggling, but she was so kind and had a really nice way with people.

She would have done anything for you.

I always said she was on Duracell batteries because she was constantly on the go.

Those gathered at the vigil lit lanterns in Kathryn's memory

Ms Rutherford said she will always have a connection with Kathryn, whose son Bailey (13) is best friends with her own son.

She will always live through him and I get to see him everyday, she added.

We are also here to stand in solidarity with all the women who have been murdered here.

Speaking ahead of the vigil, Kats friend Tasha Bonny said she was a bubbly and kind person, with a heart of gold. She added: Kat was a loyal friend. There are times we might not have seen each other for a while but she would have been the type that was always there if you needed her.

I was in Spain on holiday when I got the news and it just broke me, I just wanted home after that, Ive been listening to the voice notes she sent me just to remember her voice. She was a good person, she didnt deserve what happened to her, shell be missed so much.

Ms Parton, who sustained head injuries during the incident, was found dead in her bedroom on May 15 after her father became concerned about the lack of contact.

Kat Parton

However, police believe she may have been fatally assaulted up to six days earlier. Her body was discovered beside the bed.

Earlier this week a PSNI detective told Belfast Magistrates Court there were signs of a disturbance, with a television broken on the floor and brackets still hanging on the wall. Ms Partons partner Jamie Love (23), of the same address, appeared in court accused of murder on a date between May 9 and May 15 with the aggravating factor of domestic abuse. He was remanded into custody following the hearing after no application for bail was made. His mother Suzanne Love (43), of Isoline Street, has been charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice, assisting offenders and aiding and abetting breach of bail.

Meanwhile Reece Oliver (22), of Castleton Avenue, was also charged with assisting offenders and aiding and abetting breach of bail. Bail applications for both suspects were denied. All three are due appear in court again via videolink on June 17.

According to Womens Aid, Ms Parton is the 19th woman to be killed in Northern Ireland since 2020, and the ninth woman under the age of 35 in the same period.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service are currently at the scene of two fires in west Belfast.

The blazes, which are separate, were reported in the area of Blackstaff Way and Whiterock Business Park.

Firefighters responded to the blaze in the Whiterock Business Park after an initial report at 7.22pm stated a building in the development was on fire.

However, when firefighters arrived they discovered it was a large group of tyres which had been set alight.

A spokesperson for the NIFRS said: Three fire appliances were sent to the scene of a fire involving a large quantity of tyres - one from Whitla Street, one from Westland Road and one from Springfield Road.

Fifteen firefighters were at the scene, and are currently damping down the blaze with one fire appliance still on scene.

Due to the nature of the blaze, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service reported the tyre fire to the Environment Agency.

Minutes after the Whiterock fire was reported, firefighters received another report of a blaze at 19.25 which again was reported as a building on fire.

When firefighters arrived at the scene, they discovered a large pile of timber had been deliberately set alight.

The NIFRS spokesperson added: We mobilised two fire appliances and a fire officer to (the scene) with nine firefighters. They left the scene at 20.34.

In addition, a third fire, also in west Belfast was also reported, but NIFRS have confirmed this was a false alarm.
Solicitor Michael Madden (right) and Lee Williamson who is currently in court appealing his conviction as one of the sub-post masters caught up in the Horizon IT Scandal (Picture: Aodhan Roberts/Belfast Telegraph)

Lee Williamson who is currently in court appealing his conviction as one of the sub-post masters caught up in the Horizon IT Scandal (Picture: Aodhan Roberts/Belfast Telegraph)

A Northern Ireland sub-postmaster who had a mental breakdown after he was wrongly accused of fraud has said he is filled with overriding emotions as his conviction has been formally overturned over a decade later.

Lee Williamson (49), who was born in Castlederg, is one of 28 known postmasters in Northern Ireland to be wrongly convicted as a result of the Horizon IT Scandal which is referred to as the biggest miscarriage of justice in UK history.

This afternoon his conviction and 25 others were formally overturned after amendments were made to the legislation to expand the territorial extent of the Governments Bill to include Northern Ireland.

The impacted postmasters involved in the scandal across the UK now have the option of accepting a fixed-sum offer of 600,000 after their conviction is quashed.

Earlier this month, Mr Williamson told the Belfast Telegraph he regretted pleading guilty in 2014 after shortfalls were noticed in his Post Office in Portstewart  and only did so for the sake of his children.

He was later convicted after the faulty Horizon system recorded a shortfall of 17,000 in his accounts.

Mr Williamson also recalled being hospitalised for his own safety as a result of the trauma that occurred from the ordeal and how the Post Office pushed to interview him while he was receiving mental health treatment.

Speaking just after his conviction was quashed, Mr Williamson said he was filled with a range of emotions.

The overriding emotions are obviously happiness. I am relieved and grateful, he said.

I am very thankful for the support from my wife, children, family and friends.

At this time, I believe attention should be diverted from those responsible and instead enormous credit and celebration of the long-standing campaigners, supporting legal teams and media supporters.

Mr Williamson his legal journey to quash his conviction which began before the legislation was announced has been been surreal.

Solicitor Michael Madden (right) and Lee Williamson who is currently in court appealing his conviction as one of the sub-post masters caught up in the Horizon IT Scandal (Picture: Aodhan Roberts/Belfast Telegraph)

Its had highs and lows  but were finally there and I am just very thankful.

I think that TV programme was the best gift we could have received to move the whole process forward at unimaginable speed, he added.

This has been going on for a number of years, the public inquiry has been going on for a number of years, the drama brought it into peoples homes.

You felt very isolated and felt like you were up against one of the most iconic brands in the UK, the programme turned the tide for us.

The people that have had a negative effect, they will hopefully be held to account.

Ive encountered a lot of good people and I try to focus on that.

Its a good day in all this.

Ms Vennells, who returned her CBE honour following public outcry from the depiction of the scandal in ITVs mini-series Mr Bates vs. The Post Office which depicted Alan Bates attempt for justice  has several times become emotional during her evidence hearing.

She was seen crying several times during a portion of her evidence which recalled the case of Martin Griffiths, a former sub-postmaster who attempted to take his own life on September 23, 2013,

However, Ms Vennells, who is also an Anglican priest, and her repeated inability to recall details being discussed has been met with loud groans and laughter from those watching the proceedings.

Her sitting in the Inquiry also found that she said managing media was a priority in the midst of the scandal, which led to 700 convictions.

She also said she was surprised upon finding out that the Post Office conducted its own private criminal investigations.
So far, three people have been appeared in court in connection with the incident.

A man who was once battered by the UDA is the third person to be charged in connection with a horrific attack on a Good Samaritan and his young daughters.

The victim was with his children in Derrys city centre when he stepped in to try and stop a fight among a group of street drinkers.

However, some of those involved in the scrap turned on the man and he was forced to flee with his daughters.

So far, three people have been appeared in court in connection with the incident.

The Sunday World reported the latest of the accused is Kurtis Edgar, a 28-year-old Belfast man previously battered by the UDA.

Edgar, who had been kicked out of the Shankill area of Belfast by loyalist paramilitaries, was beaten up by UDA members in Larne in 2018.

Edgar has recently been living at an address at Carlisle Road in Derry.

He faces a total of eight charges in connection with last weeks incident, which happened at the junction of Sackville Street and Strand Road around 8pm on Wednesday, May 8.

The PSNI said they received a report of a fight involving five to six people.

Kurtis Edgar

It was reported a member of the public who had his three children in a nearby vehicle had attempted to break up the fight.

However, he was allegedly assaulted by some of the people involved.

The car was also damaged during the incident.

When police arrived on the scene, officers arrested a 25-year-old woman, Yasmin Anderson, and a 31-year-old man, Gareth McClurg.

A PSNI officer was punched in the face during the arrest operation.

Both Anderson and McClurg appeared before Derry Magistrates Court on Friday of last week.

Anderson, of no fixed abode, was charged with assaulting a man during the Derry attack.

She was also charged with criminal damage to a car, disorderly behaviour and being involved in an affray.

McClurg, whose address was given as Spencer Road in Derry, was charged with assaulting police officers, assaulting a man and making threats to kill in connection with the same incident.

He was also charged with criminal damage to a car, disorderly behaviour, obstructing police and being involved in an affray.

In relation to a separate domestic incident, McClurg was further charged with assaulting a female, with the offence aggravated by domestic abuse and making a threat to kill her.

Andersons solicitor said there would be no bail application for his client as there was some difficulty in securing a suitable bail address at this time.

She was remanded in custody to appear in court on June 6.

A bail application on behalf of McClurg was opposed by police.

The court was told when police arrived at the scene and were speaking to Anderson, McClurg intervened and became abusive and spat at an officer. He was then said to have struggled with officers and tried to spit at other officers and made threats to kill them.

The police officer said the incident was captured on CCTV and the Good Samaritan could be seen trying to help before being set upon by the crowd. The incident was described by the officer as an unprovoked assault on a member of the public.

In relation to the domestic incident, the officer said that McClurg, who has 88 previous convictions, had recently started a relationship with a woman.

On May 8, the court was told, McClurg became upset and phoned her father.

She said the defendant became very aggressive and made a threat to kill her.

Bail was opposed by police due to the high risk of reoffending.

McClurgs solicitor said his client had been released from prison with no support and ended up at a homeless shelter in Derry.

He claimed McClurg was not the instigator of the incident in the city centre on May 8.

He said McClurg insisted he had no memory of the incident but was denying the charges.

In relation to the domestic incident, the barrister said his client claimed he told the woman about his convictions and she became upset and left the house.

Deputy District Judge Liam McStay refused bail.

Edgar was arrested on May 9 in connection with the attack the previous evening.

He appeared in court on Saturday but it is understood there were no journalists present for the weekend hearing.

However, the Sunday World can today outline the eight charges he faces.

Edgar is accused of assaulting the man who tried to break up the fight, as well as assaulting his three daughters.

He is further charged with disorderly behaviour, affray and damaging a car at the scene.

He is also accused of sending a message via a public electronic communications network which he knew to be false for the purpose of causing annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety to another.

It is believed Edgar was remanded in custody.
Police have said they are working closely with the Department of Education on the matter (Stock image)

Police are investigating after inappropriate text messages from a number outside of the UK and Ireland were sent to pupils at a west Belfast school.

Officers are now encouraging parents and guardians to have conversations with children in their care about who they are speaking to via text message or online.

Its not known if multiple schools are involved or if the pupils all belong to one school. However, the PSNI said the number the messages were sent from originates from outside the UK and Ireland.

In a statement, a police spokesperson said: An investigation is currently ongoing to establish the circumstances.

Chief Inspector Hamilton added: We would encourage parents to have regular and open conversations with their children about who they are speaking to on their phones and their wider online activities.

Having an understanding of the features of their mobile devices, apps and games your children are using, particularly when there is the ability to connect with people they may not know, is important for keeping them safe.

The PSNI is also working closely with the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland, local schools, Department of Education and the Education Authority to educate children and highlight the potential dangers.

The force has appealed to any parents who are concerned that their children may be being groomed or at risk, to contact police on 101, or in an emergency always dial 999.
Aftermath of a carpark fire in BannatyneOs Health Club at Holywood Exchange Photo Stephen Davison/Pacemaker Press

Aftermath of a carpark fire in Bannatynes Health Club at Holywood Exchange Photo Stephen Davison/Pacemaker Press

Aftermath of a carpark fire in Bannatynes Health Club at Holywood Exchange Photo Stephen Davison/Pacemaker Press

A fire which has badly damaged ten vehicles at a gym and spa car park has been confirmed as accidental by police.

The cars were parked at Bannatynes Health Club at Holywood Exchange between Holywood and Belfast.

Investigators are on site following the fire but a police spokesperson has confirmed the incident is being treated as accidental after a car engine fire then spread to other vehicles.

In a statement, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said: Firefighters were called to reports of a car fire on the Belfast Road, Holywood.

"Firefighters using breathing apparatus and four hose reels extinguished the fire, which had spread to 10 other vehicles, and made the vehicles safe.

"The cause of the fire was accidental ignition and the incident was dealt with by 10.30am.

Bannatynes Health Club boasts extensive gym facilities as well as a swimming pool and spa.
Jonathan Buckley will be the DUP's candidate in Lagan Valley

The DUP has now confirmed Jonathan Buckley, the current DUP MLA for Upper Bann will be the partys candidate in Lagan Valley.

Hes aiming to fill the spot vacated by Jeffrey Donaldson whose solicitor announced he would not run after being charged with historical sex offences, which he strenuously denies.

Here we take a look at the man who went from the DUPs youngest elected representative to now one of its biggest names.

Born in Craigavon, Co Armagh in 1991 to a factory worker father and home-maker mother, Jonathan Jonny Buckley grew up as one of five children in a unionist family, deeply rooted in the community and its traditions.

Mr Buckley attended Richmount Primary, Clounagh Junior High, Craigavon Senior High and Lurgan College to study for A-Levels, before pursuing higher education at Queen's University Belfast, where he studied politics and international studies.

He began his political career when he was elected to the Craigavon Borough Council in 2014 at just 22-years-old, representing the DUP.

In 2017, he succeeded the DUPs Sydney Anderson to become the partys MLA in Upper Bann - and the youngest elected representative in the partys history at 26-years-old.

He's the man who gave me the opportunity to have a political career, he said about Anderson at the time, having previously worked for him as a researcher at just 16 years old.

According to his official DUP profile, Mr Buckley is an active member of the Loyal Orders and the Ulster Lambeg Drumming Association as well as an alumni of the British Councils Future Leaders Connect Programme.

A staunch farming advocate, the new Lagan Valley candidate has long been a supporter of safer farming protocols following the deaths of two of his uncles in farming accidents.

He told the Belfast Telegraph in 2018 that bravery runs in his family, after his great grandfather William Hamill, won the Queen's Gallantry Medal for bravery more than 40 years ago after he lifted an IRA bomb.

The bomb had been left outside the Crown Buildings in Co Armagh and Mr Hamill took it outside to be diffused.

Outside of politics, he is a Christian and attends Cranagill Methodist Church in Craigavon.

He is also a pigeon fancier and previously had over 200 birds in his collection, having picked up the hobby from both of his grandfathers.

In 2022, he married his long-term girlfriend, primary school teacher Jill Porter in a ceremony in Lisburn.
China's public offering fund value hits 30.78 trln yuan

Xinhua) 09:33, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Assets under the management of China's public offering funds totaled 30.78 trillion yuan (about 4.33 trillion U.S. dollars) by the end of April, data from the Asset Management Association of China showed Thursday.

In comparison with the end of March, the figure saw an increase from 29.2 trillion yuan, the data showed.

By the end of April, a total of 11,868 public offering funds were being operated by 148 fund management companies, the association said.

The scale of closed-end funds topped 3.82 trillion yuan, while that of open-end funds was about 26.95 trillion yuan, the data showed.

Of the 148 fund management companies, 51 are foreign-funded firms and 97 are domestic firms, the association said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The United Nations' top court issued an order to Israel Friday to "immediately halt its military offensive" in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced after the ruling that he would hold a special ministerial meeting to decide how to respond. But Israeli leaders quickly signaled the nation will not comply with the decision from the U.N.'s International Court of Justice.

"No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza," Avi Hyman, the government spokesperson, said in a press briefing, the Associated Press reported.

Israel's rightwing Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir insisted in a statement that those who "demand that the State of Israel stop the war" are demanding that Israel "decree itself to cease to exist."

The U.N. court has not called for a ceasefire, but is ordering the cessation of the current military operation against Rafah. It has no power to enofrce its order, though the decision is another major international blow to Israel's support and standing in the world.

Israel's attack on Gaza, and now specifically on Rafah, is sparking increased opposition around the world. More than 35,000 Palestinians have been killing in the military assault in retaliation for an October Hamas attack in Israel that killed some 1,000 people and took hundreds of hostages.
The TUV along with Reform UK has agreed to support Alex Easton as the unionist Westminster election candidate in North Down.

The party announced it would not contest a candidate in the constituency but following a discussion between Reform UK's deputy leader Ben Habib, TUV leader Jim Allister and Alex Easton, they would be supporting Mr Easton as "the only unionist candidate" capable of unseating Stephen Farry.
Niall Blaney, right, is running for a seat in the European Parliament in the Midlands Northwest constituency (Brian Lawless/PA)

An argument broke out between Micheal Martin and a Fianna Fail MEP candidate at the partys launch of its European election manifesto in Dublin on Friday.

Niall Blaney, a Fianna Fail senator from Co Donegal, accused the party of favouritism, to which Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader, Mr Martin, said all candidates had received significant support.

Mr Blaney is running for a seat in the European Parliament in the Midlands Northwest constituency, along with his party colleagues Barry Cowen, a Co Offaly TD, and senator Lisa Chambers.

Fianna Fail MEP Niall Blaney was asked whether he felt supported by the party (Brian Lawless/PA)

A recent poll by the Irish Times puts Mr Cowen on 10%, Ms Chambers on 9%, and Mr Blaney on 4%, three of 27 candidates in the five-seater constituency.

At the launch of the partys European election manifesto in Dublin, Ms Chambers and Mr Blaney were asked whether they felt supported by their party.

Ms Chambers said there was a healthy tension between the Fianna Fail candidates in the constituency.

I wouldnt be contesting these elections without the support of my leader and my party, Ms Chambers said.

Theres healthy tensions within the party because our ticket is competitive, the constituency is competitive, and I think it shows that our party is doing well, because people want to contest elections on the Fianna Fail ticket.

Mr Blaney responded: Unfortunately, I am not getting the same support as other candidates are getting in this campaign, and thats a problem for me. It has been for weeks.

I have never had any opportunity on national television yet, Im the only candidate of the six.

That is not just about me, thats about the people I represent in the border counties and Connacht. We need the same opportunity as everybody else to make the most of the Fianna Fail vote and go for that second seat, its very much there.

Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, left to right, and candidates Cynthia Ni Mhurchu and Niall Blaney were appearing at a launch event in Dublin on Friday (Brian Lawless/PA)

He said that the Midlands Northwest constituency was in need of better infrastructure and was not getting our fair share.

I feel theres a real opportunity now to take a seat on the border and Connacht counties. But we need equal support for the last two weeks. And not just support for a few. If the Tanaiste goes on a canvass he goes on a canvass with all three, and if he goes to do videos with one candidate, he has to do videos with all three.

Mr Martin said that he had canvassed with Mr Blaney, and the only candidate he had not canvassed with yet was Ms Chambers.

When Mr Blaney responded to say there were two other candidates out on the canvass with him as well, Mr Martin said all the European candidates are with local election candidates.

Cynthia Ni Mhurchu, a Fianna Fail MEP candidate for Ireland South, interjected to say: Correct, I canvassed with you with other local candidates.

Mr Martin added: Theres huge support going to all candidates from the party. There is significant support going to all candidates.

When Mr Blaney was asked whether he would run as an independent candidate in another election, he said: My family name is in politics 98 years this year.

I come from a very strong republican (family), my grandfather is actually a founding member of this party. Im very proud of this party, very proud of the people I represent.

So I come here today not as Niall Blaney, but as the people I represent and their voice and their frustration.

And yes, apologies if I sound frustrated today, but that is as it is. But one thing for sure  Im a strong republican Fianna Fail advocate.
Jordan Marotta, five, has become the youngest person in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

A five-year-old boy who was born without a left hand has become the youngest in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm, making him feel like a superhero.

Jordan Marottas mother Ashley Marotta said the Iron Man-style arm was an instant confidence boost for her son and he had rushed back to his school to show his friends.

The custom-made, 3D printed prosthetic is produced by Bristol-based Open Bionics, which was founded in 2014 and launched four clinics in America in the last year.

Jordan, of Long Island, New York state, is now the youngest ever owner of one of the firms Hero Arms.

The prosthetic uses special sensors which detect muscular contractions and turn them into bionic hand movements.

Jordan Marotta, five, has become the youngest person in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

Most children with Hero Arms are aged seven years old or above, but the firm said Jordans size for his age and his high IQ  meaning he was easy to teach how to use the Hero Arm  meant he could have one sooner.

The previous youngest Hero Arm user was a six-year-old from Los Angeles.

Several children in the UK received a Hero Arm aged seven  including Louie Morgan-Kemp, of Swavesey, Cambridgeshire.

Jordans mother had been following Open Bionics on Facebook and contacted the firm when they opened a clinic in New York.

Jordan Marotta is able to grip his scooter with his new Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

The Hero Arm was paid for by insurance.

Clinical psychologist Ms Marotta, 38, said she was so grateful to Open Bionics.

Initially we were told he was too young and we convinced Open Bionics to see us and luckily he picked it up right away, she said.

As soon as we left with Jordans Hero Arm, he was running around with so much confidence trying to hail New York taxis.

It was an instant confidence boost; the Hero Arm really makes him feel like a superhero and he is superhero obsessed.

He then wanted to rush back to his school to show his teachers and friends.

Jordan Marotta could not wait to show his bionic arm to his schoolfriends (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

He was so happy and so excited and so was everyone at his school.

As a mum, you just want your child to be happy, and he is generally happy and resilient, but (after getting the Hero Arm) he was on top of the world and glowing.

He could not have been happier or more excited and hes the same today.

Its amazing.

Jordan had only used one different prosthetic before but stopped using it because of the lack of functionality.

Since getting his Hero Arm this week, he has been able to grab his scooter handles and go for a ride.

The prosthetic uses special sensors which detect muscular contractions and turns them into bionic hand movements (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

He is so excited to use it and to be able to control the fingers and grab two objects now, said mother-of-three Ms Marotta.

Were excited to see him get used to reaching with two hands and playing with his superhero toys with two hands.

She said that she and Jordans father Josh, 42, who works in the family business, a dental laboratory, were blessed and the Hero Arm was covered by our insurance.

Daniel Green, the clinician who delivered the Hero Arm and training to Jordan at Open Bionics in New York, said it was a pleasure to work with him and meet his family.

He said Jordan was very smart, had a great personality and was really excited about his Hero Arm and couldnt wait to show his friends.

Open Bionics is a British company delivering bionic hands and partial hand prosthetics globally for amputees.

Bristol-based Open Bionics makes the Hero Arm and Jordan received his at the firms clinic in New York (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

It describes itself as the only company in the world making multi-articulating hands small and light enough for children as young as Jordan.

It is also the only company in the world able to produce bionic arms from the Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney universes thanks to a long-term collaboration with The Walt Disney Company.

The firm has fitted amputees with Hero Arms in Ukraine, Germany, and Australia.

Samantha Payne, co-founder at Open Bionics, said: Were so happy for Jordan and cant wait to see how he puts his new Iron Man arm to work.
Former post office workers outside the Royal Courts of Justice in 2021 (PA)

Hundreds of subpostmasters caught up in the Post Office Horizon scandal will have their names cleared on Friday after Parliament backed legislation to quash their convictions.

The Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill will receive royal assent on the final sitting day of Parliament before it halts its business ahead of the July 4 General Election.

Business minister Kevin Hollinrake, speaking as MPs accepted Lords amendments to the Bill, told the Commons: Its an historic day because convictions will, as a result of this legislation, be overturned on royal assent  and with His Majestys agreement that means they will be overturned tomorrow.

The Bill will quash convictions of theft, fraud, false accounting and other offences for subpostmasters who have suffered as a consequence of the Horizon scandal, and relevant cautions will be deleted from records.

The Bill will quash convictions of theft, fraud, false accounting and other offences (PA)

The Bill will apply in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, affecting those who were prosecuted by the Post Office, Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) or Northern Ireland authorities in the years 1996 to 2018.

The Scottish Parliament will pass its own law to a similar effect north of the border, because of Scotlands distinct legal system.

Those whose convictions are quashed will then be eligible to receive compensation payments from the Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme, which will be set up after the legislation is passed.

The Horizon scandal, which has been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in UK history, saw more than 700 Post Office branch managers handed criminal convictions after faulty Fujitsu accounting software made it appear as though money was missing.

The Post Office is wholly owned by the Government and a public inquiry into Horizon is ongoing.

The scandal received widespread attention after ITV screened its acclaimed drama Mr Bates Vs The Post Office.

On Thursday, peers failed in a last-ditch attempt to exonerate more subpostmasters caught up in it.

Peers believed that the 13 cases of subpostmasters whose convictions were upheld by the Court of Appeal, or were refused permission for their case to be heard, would be added to the remit of the Bill.

But there was some confusion on the benches of the Upper House as senior Tory backbench figures claimed ministers had agreed during backroom wash-up talks to add the 13 cases to the scope of the Bill.

However, business minister Lord Offord of Garvel suggested this was not the case, telling peers: Court of Appeal cases are excluded from the Bill because we believe the Government must tread carefully where judges in the senior appellant courts have considered a case.
Kurdish forces patrol al-Hol camp, which houses families of members of the Islamic State group in Hasakeh province, Syria (Baderkhan Ahmad/AP)

A British woman and three children linked to the militant so-called Islamic State group in Syria were handed over to a UK delegation that visited the region this week, Syrian Kurdish-led authorities said on Friday.

The handover, which took place on Wednesday, is the latest in a push to repatriate people from al-Hol and Roj camps in northeastern Syria that house tens of thousands, mostly wives and children of Islamic State (IS) militants but also supporters of the extremist group.

The Kurdish authorities did not release the names of the four, saying only they were held at Roj camp before the handover.

According to a statement, a delegation led by Britains special representative for Syria, Ann Snow, visited northeastern Syria, where they discussed with the Kurdish authorities the ongoing threat that IS still poses, five years after the extremists lost the last sliver of land they once controlled in large parts of Iraq and Syria.

Elham Ahmad, the co-chair for foreign relations in the regional Syrian Kurdish administration, said radical solutions should be found for the problem of terrorism.

Thousands of IS members and suspects held in jails in northeast Syria should face justice, she added.

In 2014, IS declared a caliphate in large parts of Iraq and Syria and attracted tens of thousands of supporters from around the world. The extremists were defeated by a US-led coalition in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019.

Tens of thousands of people linked to the group were taken to al-Hol camp, close to the Iraqi border.

Over the past five years about 30,000 people, mostly Iraqis and Syrians, have left al-Hol camp and been repatriated. More than 2,000 are also held in Roj camp.

Earlier this month, the United States said it repatriated 11 of its citizens from al-Hol and Roj camps, the largest group to date that Washington has taken out of the two sprawling camps.

Earlier in May, more than 200 Syrians were taken from al-Hol to their hometowns in Syrias eastern province that borders Iraq.
The World Health Organisation had hoped a final draft treaty could be agreed on at its yearly meeting of health ministers starting on Monday in Geneva (Anja Niedringhaus/AP)

A global treaty to fight pandemics such as Covid-19 is on hold after more than two years of negotiations as countries disagree how the world might respond to the next health emergency.

After Covid-19 triggered once-unthinkable lockdowns, upended economies and killed millions, leaders at the World Health Organisation (WHO) vowed to do better in the future.

In 2021, member countries asked the UN health agency to oversee negotiations to work out how the world might better share scarce resources and stop future viruses from spreading globally.

On Friday, Roland Driece, co-chairman of WHOs negotiating board for the agreement, acknowledged that countries were unable to come up with a draft.

WHO had hoped a final draft treaty could be agreed on at its yearly meeting of health ministers starting on Monday in Geneva.

We are not where we hoped we would be when we started this process, he said, adding that finalising an international agreement on how to respond to a pandemic was critical for the sake of humanity.

Mr Driece said the World Health Assembly next week would take up lessons from its work and plot the way forward, urging participants to make the right decisions to take this process forward to one day reach a pandemic agreement because we need it.

The draft treaty had attempted to address the gap that occurred between Covid-19 vaccines in rich and poorer countries, which WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said amounted to a catastrophic moral failure.

Addressing a final day of negotiations, the WHO chief insisted: This is not a failure.

We will try everything  believing that anything is possible  and make this happen because the world still needs a pandemic treaty, he said.

Because many of the challenges that caused a serious impact during Covid-19 still exist.

The accords aim was to set guidelines for how the WHOs 194 member countries might stop future pandemics and better share resources. But experts warned there were virtually no consequences for countries that do not comply.

The co-chairs of the treaty-drafting process did not specify what caused the logjam, but diplomats have said vast differences remained over sharing of information about pathogens that emerge and the sharing of technologies to fight them.

The latest draft had proposed that WHO should get 20% of the production of pandemic-related products such as tests, treatments and vaccines and urges countries to disclose their deals with private companies.

Earlier this month, US Republican senators wrote to the Biden administration, arguing that the draft treaty focused on issues such as shredding intellectual property rights and supercharging the WHO. They urged US President Joe Biden not to sign it off.

Britains Department of Health said it would only agree to an accord if it adhered to British national interest and sovereignty.

Meanwhile, many developing countries said it is unfair that they might be expected to provide virus samples to help develop vaccines and treatments, but then be unable to afford them.

Precious Matsoso, the fellow co-chair of WHOs negotiating board for the pandemic treaty, said there was still an opportunity to reach agreement and that efforts would not stop, despite the inability to reach a deal on Friday.

We will make sure that this happens, because when the next pandemic hits, it will not spare us, she said.

Mr Tedros, the WHO chief, said there should be no regrets.

What matters now is when do we learn from this and how can we reset things, recalibrate things, identify the main challenges, and then move on, he said.
X is subject to a states anti-discrimination law even though it does not have an office in Australia, a judge ruled (AP)

An Australian judge has ruled that the social media platform X is subject to a states anti-discrimination law, even though it does not have an office in Australia.

Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal Judge Ann Fitzgerald said in a decision made public on Friday that her court has jurisdiction over X in a hate speech complaint.

The ruling allows the Queensland Human Rights Commission to hear an allegation that X breached Queensland anti-discrimination law by failing to remove or hide anti-Muslim hate speech.

The Australian Muslim Advocacy Network, which brought the case against Twitter in June 2022 before billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk bought and rebranded the platform last year, welcomed the decision as precedent-setting.

The alleged breach came before Mr Musk took over the platform and rebranded it as X (Invision/AP)

Judge Fitzgeralds decision paved the way for social media companies to be held accountable for locally accessible content that may breach Australian hate speech laws, the network said in a statement.

This is the first such legal victory against a social media company under Australian vilifications laws, which may bear consequences to all social media companies operating in Australia, it added.

X has refused to remove material that the network alleges denigrates, dehumanises and demonises the Muslim community, portraying Muslims as an existential threat.

The complaint deals with material including video and photos that can be accessed through a link posted on X by an alleged far-right anti-Muslim conspiracy blog authored by an American citizen. The material is then commented on, copied and shared.

The tribunal has accepted the networks request that the blog and its principal author not be identified for fear of adverse consequences for Muslims.

Circulated footage of a Sydney stabbing was also the subject of legal action in Australia (Jonathan Brady/PA)

X had argued that the tribunal had no jurisdiction over the company because it had no presence in Queensland and the impugned conduct took place outside Queensland.

Judge Fitzgerald disagreed, ruling X was present in Queensland because it provides a service in Queensland and in my view carries on business in Queensland.

The impugned conduct took place in Queensland whether one terms the impugned conduct an effect or actual conduct, she added.

Judge Fitzgerald made her ruling on Tuesday but lawyers did not release her reasons to the public until Friday.

Mr Musk is also fighting in Australian Federal Court a notice by an internet safety watchdog to take down video of a 16-year-old boy allegedly stabbing an Assyrian Orthodox bishop in a Sydney church on April 15.

X agreed to geoblock from Australian users images of what Australian authorities have declared a terrorist act.
A US Postal Service truck is flipped on its side at the intersection of Bingle and Sowden in the aftermath of a severe storm on Friday, May 17, 2024 in Houston. Fast-moving thunderstorms pummeled southeastern Texas for the second time this month, killing at least eight people, blowing out windows in high-rise buildings, downing trees and knocking out power to more than 900,000 homes and businesses in the Houston area. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Small Business Administration opened two new Business Recovery Centers in Houston to assist those affected by recent severe weather.

These new SBA locations will be at Marilyn Davies College of Business at University of Houston Downtown, 320 N Main St., and at Trini Mendenhall Community Center, 1414 Wirt Road.

In the wake of several Houston area disasters such as tornadoes, heavy winds, flooding and severe storms. The centers will offer in-person and virtual assistance for free personalized counseling to help Houston area businesses in the recovery process.

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SBA representatives will answer questions such as navigating disaster loan program, help with application process, online help with electronic loan application and much more.

DISASTER ASSISTANCE: How Houston residents and businesses can apply for disaster assistance

As a lifelong Houstonian, this city isn't just home; it's part of who I am. Witnessing the devastation brought by the recent derecho, with fierce winds and tornadoes tearing through our communities, has been heart-wrenching, Francisco Sanchez Jr, SBA associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience, said in a statement. The loss of eight lives is a profound tragedy and knowing that so many of our neighbors are still without power deepens my resolve. Houston is home, and it's our resilience as a community that will guide us through this recovery.

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Over 3,000 civilians have been killed in Ukraine since Russias invasion in 2022

Today, Brendan Murphy lives in the hills above Omeath in County Louth.

But on the 24 February 2022, he was living in Irpin, a small city close to Kyiv.

He awoke to news that Russia had launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Brendan and his family got in his car and drove for Ireland, trying their best to avoid the fighting.

Russian troops reached Irpin three days later  they were driven out after a month.

Brendan has now published a book about his experience War in Ukraine: An Irishman's Journey.

He joins Ciaran Dunbar to tell his experience of how his life in Ukraine turned into the life of a civilian in a warzone.
Anwarul Azim Anar (second from left, seated), a lawmaker from Bangladeshs ruling Awami League party, who Indian and Bangladeshi police say was murdered, is seen talking to his constituents in Dhaka, in a photograph he posted to his Facebook account on Feb. 29, 2024.

Indian and Bangladesh police said Thursday that suspects had dismembered and defiled the body of a Dhaka lawmaker allegedly killed in Kolkata earlier this month, in a case that has transfixed and horrified Bangladeshis.

A total of five people have been arrested in Kolkata and the Bangladesh capital as suspects in the alleged murder of the ruling party MP, Anwarul Azim Anar, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) said. The killers' identities are known and will be announced later, Bangladesh's home minister said.

Harun Or Rashid, chief of DMPs detective branch, told reporters that Indian authorities had not been able to recover the body parts of the Awami League lawmaker, but had informed him about the gruesome acts done to the MP.

After killing Anwarul, the body was cut into pieces and the bones and flesh were separated to hide the body. After that, so that no one could suspect, it was mixed with turmeric and taken out of the house, he said.

But it is still not clear where the fragmented parts of the body have been thrown.

Harun noted that Kolkata Police in their statement Thursday made clear that their assertions about Anwarul being murdered and cut up was based on evidence and information they couldnt yet disclose so as to not jeopardize the investigation.

Anwarul, 56, who was a three-time MP and had been on Interpols wanted list in 2008, had arrived in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata for medical treatment on May 12, but went missing two days later from a friends house where he had been staying.

Almost everything has been identified and we are almost close to identifying who did the killing. Now all that is left is the announcement, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said at an afternoon press conference.

He told reporters that an Indian police team was set to arrive in Dhaka for further investigation. The team landed there in the evening.

All those involved in the killing are Bangladeshi, the police told the minister, according to Khan.

Police detective Harun said the suspects had been planning the killing for some time.

There was a plan to kill Anwarul for one or two months in two houses [in the neighborhoods of] Gulshan or Dhanmondi in Dhaka, Harun said.

But Kolkata was chosen because the suspects thought they may be more easily caught in Dhaka, he added.

Mumtarin Ferdous Doreen, daughter of ruling party MP Anwarul Azim Anar, who police say was murdered in India, speaks to reporters outside the Detective Police office on Minto Road, Dhaka, May 22, 2024. [BenarNews]

Anwaruls past is also playing out in the media as police investigate the motive behind his alleged killing.

Without providing proof, media reports in both countries alleged that Anwarul was involved in cross-border smuggling of gold.

The lawmaker himself acknowledged  as he had to  to the Election Commission before the general election in January, that he had had 21 cases filed against him. In his affidavit to the EC, he said he was discharged from seven cases and acquitted in the remaining 14.

Various media reports alleged that the cases against him were related to smuggling, weapons, and extortion, among others.

Reporters on Thursday asked Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader for comments on the alleged killing of his party colleague.

[T]he party nominated him considering his popularity. He was killed. We cannot say anything until the investigation is over, was his reply.

Another party member, Abdur Razzaque, told BenarNews he could not speak at length about the alleged killing.

[W]e need to know more about the matter to make a detailed comment as investigations are underway, he said.

These allegations of Anwaruls involvement in smuggling are very embarrassing.
The challenge now is to combat radicalism being spread online, some experts and ex-militants say.

A burned shoe is seen on a table inside a destroyed bar at the site of a bomb blast in Kuta Beach, which was one of a series of explosions that killed 202 people on the island of Bali, Indonesia, four days after the attacks, Oct. 16, 2002.

Indonesian director Joko Anwars new horror film Siksa Kubur (Grave Torture) begins with a bang as a suicide bomber blows himself up at a bakery, killing the owners and many bystanders.

Joko has said in interviews that the dramatic opening was influenced by real-life events  one being a 2016 attack claimed by Islamic State militants that killed four civilians near a Jakarta shopping center.

In the film released in April, the bomber is portrayed as afraid of being tortured in his grave upon burial  some Muslims believe sinners suffer such a fate  and hopes a suicide attack would help him ascend straight to heaven.

This was the second film in four months that referenced a terror attack in Indonesia. One released in December, 13 Bom di Jakarta (13 Bombs), was loosely based on the attack on the Jakarta Stock Exchange in 2000 by Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), a group affiliated with al-Qaeda, which left 15 people dead

While such strikes have dwindled significantly in recent years, their violence has had an enduring impact on the psyche of many Indonesians.

And while some former militants and terrorism and risk experts credit the government for a drop in such attacks, they caution that the threat remains although channels of radicalization may have changed.

Umar Patek, one of the bombmakers in the 2002 Bali blasts that killed more than 200 people, is seen at Tenggulun village in Lamongan regency in Indonesias East Java province after his early release from prison, Dec. 13, 2022. [Juni Kriswanto/AFP]

An attack on a police station in neighboring Malaysia on May 17, in which two constables were killed, has caused consternation among security observers in both countries.

They expressed fear that JI, which had been long dormant in Malaysia, may be resurgent because police initially said the suspect may have been a member of the group. He was shot dead by officers during the attack.

The attackers father, though, was a known member of JI and the whole episode took place in an area of Johor state known for having allegedly harbored the groups members in the late 1990s. Police arrested him and four other family members

On Friday, after a week of flip-flops by the Malaysian police  at one point they took back their allegation that the suspect may be a JI member  they rearrested the suspects family members under a more stringent national security law. Malaysian police said they needed to investigate the family members further because they practiced radical ideologies and the father is a JI member.

Police walk past a wreath placed on a destroyed car at the scene of a bomb blast in Kuta, one of a series that killed 202 people in Bali, two days after the attacks, Oct. 14, 2002, Indonesia. [Luis DOrey/Reuters]

According to the man who coordinated the 2002 Bali bombings, which killed 202 people and was blamed on JI, the militant group was left in disarray by the mid-2000s, after the Indonesian authorities clamped down on hardline groups nationwide.

There is no official leader of JI now. There are still former senior members of the organization, but they have not been able to agree on leadership and there is no one in charge, Ali Imron, who is serving a life sentence, told BenarNews.

My understanding is that there was an agreement between them that JI would not continue anymore, and no longer exist as an official organization.

The Indonesian authorities outlawed JI in 2007, following a series of devastating and deadly bomb attacks dating to 2000.

While JI attacks may have come down, the most devastating terrorist attacks in Indonesia in recent years have been committed by members of groups inspired by the Islamic State group, including IS affiliate Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), which was founded in 2015. It has since been banned.

The group attacked a number of churches in Surabaya in 2018 and a cathedral in Makassar on the Christian festival of Palm Sunday.

In 2019, a lone attacker in Medan, who was also affiliated with JAD, detonated a bomb at the citys police headquarters.

Still, there has not been a JAD strike since either.

That could be because of the governments two counter-terrorism organizations, Densus 88 and BNPT, experts say.

Prior to the Bali bombings, Indonesia did not have specific anti-terrorism legislation, although this was quickly drafted and signed into law in 2003.

Also in 2003, Indonesia formed the elite Counterterrorism Detachment 88 (Densus 88) unit of the police, and received training and funding from the United States and Australia. In 2010, the governments anti-terrorism body, the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) was established.

A still from the Indonesian film 13 Bom di Jakarta (13 Bombs), which was released in December and is loosely based on the 2000 attack on the Jakarta Stock Exchange that killed 15 people. [Courtesy IMDb]

Noor Huda Ismail, founder of the Institute for International Peace Building, told BenarNews that he doubts the perpetrator of the recent attack in Malaysia was a formal JI member.

But, I would not discount the possibility of a terrorist attack in Indonesia, given the latent nature of the terrorist threat in the country, he said.

However, it is noteworthy that the Indonesian Detachment 88 has significantly enhanced its understanding of this threat, particularly regarding the activities of JI.

Yet, Ismail noted that challenges still exist across the region, particularly as radicalization channels diversify.

Despite the progress, the true challenge lies in combating online radicalization and addressing the potential for recidivism among terrorists who have been released without undergoing comprehensive rehabilitation programs, he said.

Uday Bakhshi, an operations manager for the risk assessment company, APAC Assistance, said that while there was still a terrorist threat in Indonesia, the government appeared prepared for any attacks based on its recent successes.

Densus 88 foiled an alleged plot to target the February general elections, and nearly 150 suspected terrorists were arrested in 2023, he told BenarNews.

In his view, an attack in the near future in the region would be an outlier.

JI has seemingly turned away from violence, and the ISIS supporting groups have lost capabilities and relevance, he said.

Members of the Densus 88 counter-terrorism police force cordon off a road as they search a house following the arrest of a man suspected of links with the Islamic State (IS) militant group, in Surabaya, East Java province, Indonesia, June 19, 2017. [Juni Kriswanto/AFP]

Bali bomber Imron is not the only senior member of JI who now denounces his violent past.

Both Imron and Umar Patek, one of the bombmakers in the 2002 Bali blasts who was imprisoned for 20 years and released in 2022, have become involved in deradicalization programs created by the Indonesian authorities, as has Abu Bakar Bashir, the Indonesian cleric who founded JI in 1993 with fellow Indonesian Abdullah Sungkar.

Bashir was released from prison in 2021 after serving two-thirds of a 15-year sentence for supporting terrorist training camps and has since spoken out about the dangers of radical ideology.

In a video statement sent to BenarNews, Bashir said he strongly condemned the killing of the two police officers in Malaysia and was shocked by the incident.

Absolutely, that is not the teaching of Islam. I dont know if it was just blood-lust, or maybe the influence of the enemies of Islam who were using that young man, he said.

He added that he wanted to advise young Muslims to follow the right path and not get involved in terrorism.

Those who support Islam should do so only through dakwah (proselytization) and prayers, not through violence or bombs which are not in the teachings of Islam, he said.
French military to stay in New Caledonia for months if needed, says President Macron during a brief visit.

President of New Caledonia's government Louis Mapou [second from left] and New Caledonia's Congress President Roch Wamytan [center] attend a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron [second from right] and other officials at the French High Commissioners residence in Noumea, on May 23, 2024.

French military forces sent to quell New Caledonias pro-independence riots will stay as long as necessary, President Emmanuel Macron said during a flying visit to the Pacific island territory that reinforced regional perceptions of France as an out-of-touch colonial power.

Six people died, dozens were injured and businesses were torched in a week of riots in the capital Noumea triggered by the French governments move to dilute the voting power of New Caledonias indigenous Kanak people.

Roads remain blocked by makeshift barricades and Fiji, Vanuatu, Australia and New Zealand are attempting to evacuate their citizens from the island.

The electoral changes, described by Macron as a reform, will not be forced through in the current context, he announced before flying out of Noumea following a day of meetings on Thursday. We will allow some weeks to allow a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord.

A security contingent of several thousand that includes elite military troops will remain as long as needed, even during the Olympic and Paralympic Games which Paris will host in July and August, he said.

Leaders of pro-independence parties were part of a meeting with Macron but have not yet released a statement. Macron urged them to call on protestors to dismantle barricades.

Within a month at the latest, I will take stock, assess the situation and decide on the institutional follow-up, he said. I will, of course, take into account a return to calm, but also the sincere commitment of the parties to resume negotiations with a view to reaching an agreement.

Loyalist groups held separate meetings with Macron, highlighting their internal disagreements with how to proceed.

French President Emmanuel Macron [center] visits the central police station with France s Minister for Interior and Overseas Gerald Darmanin [left] and France s Minister for the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu [partially obscured] in Noumea, New Caledonia on May 23, 2024. [Ludovic Marin/Pool Photo/AFP]





Frances control of New Caledonia and its surrounding islands gives the European nation a significant security and diplomatic role in the Pacific at a time when the U.S., Australia and other Western countries are pushing back against Chinas inroads in the region. New Caledonia also has valuable nickel deposits that are among the worlds largest.

The unrest is the worst political violence in the Pacific territory located between Australia and Fiji since the 1980s. The riots erupted May 12 as the lower house of Frances parliament debated and subsequently approved a constitutional amendment to unfreeze New Caledonias electoral roll, which would give the vote to thousands of French immigrants.

Final approval of the amendment requires a joint sitting of Frances lower house and Senate.

Since last year, the Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste independence movement had called for the constitutional amendment to be withdrawn and for dialogue on New Caledonias status to be resumed.

We decided to instigate demonstrations in November when we saw that discussions with the French state were stalling. But still President Macron remained deaf to all our calls, said Roch Wamytan, a pro-independence politician and president of New Caledonias Congress.

There were warning signs, he said, that unrest could erupt. Now for more than a week we have been a bit overwhelmed by the events, he said in an interview with Australian broadcaster ABC.

I admit that independence leaders were surprised. Perhaps we did not sufficiently take into account the profound frustrations of young Kanak people.

The main prison here, 95% of the inmates, of which there are about 600, are young Kanak people. We knew that our youth, or part of our youth, had radicalized but we hadnt understood the depth of this desire for revenge.

People peacefully demonstrate as French President Emmanuel Macron's motorcade drives past in Noumea, France's Pacific territory of New Caledonia on May 23, 2024. [Ludovic Marin/Pool Photo/AFP]

Sonia Backes, a loyalist who is president of New Caledonias South Province, said Macron had pledged the law would be enforced.

The president above all heard the Caledonians, the leaders of business, the mayors who spoke. They told him of the terror that reigns in New Caledonia, of the violence of what happened, of the racism of which we were victims, she said, the French national broadcaster reported.

Kanaks are about 40% of New Caledonias 270,000 people but are marginalized in their own land  they have lower incomes and poorer health than Europeans who make up a third of the population and occupy most positions of power in the territory.

Churches in the devoutly Christian Pacific region, civil society groups, the regional organization representing Melanesian nations and political leaders have condemned Frances attempt to bulldoze through the voting roll enlargement.

The inter-governmental Pacific Islands Forum, of which New Caledonia and not France is a full member, has offered to help mediate the crisis.

There is a widely shared perception across the Pacific that the current unrest in New Caledonia is a situation largely of Frances own making, said Mihai Sora, a Pacific analyst at Australias Lowy Institute, a think-tank.

Pushing through changes to electoral rules that are clearly designed to shift the balance of views locally on the question of independence has served to reinforce regional perceptions of France as an out-of-touch colonial master and exposed contradictions in Frances relationship with the Pacific, he told BenarNews.

New Caledonia is one of six non-self-governing territories in the Pacific inscribed on the U.N.s decolonization list, making up a third of all the aspiring nations, and the issue remains a hot topic in the region with Bougainville seeking to secede from Papua New Guinea and the long-running independence conflict in Indonesias Papuan provinces.

Foreign minister of Vanuatu Matai Seremaiah said the events in New Caledonia were a stark reminder of the unfinished business of decolonization across the Blue Pacific Continent.

French Polynesia was relisted by the U.N. General Assembly in 2013, and last year elected the pro-independence government of president Moetai Brotherson, but France has demanded the territory be removed again.

The issue of self-determination for New Caledonia will be squarely on the agenda for Pacific island leaders when the 18-nation Pacific Islands Forum meets in Tonga later this year, Sora said.

New Caledonia voted by modest majorities to remain part of France in referendums held in 2018 and 2020 under a U.N.-mandated decolonization process. Three votes were part of the Noumea Accord to increase Kanaks political power following deadly violence in the 1980s.

A contentious final referendum in 2021 was overwhelmingly in favor of continuing with the status quo. However supporters of independence have rejected its legitimacy due to very low turnout  it was boycotted by the independence movement  and because it was unilaterally brought forward by the Macron government during a serious phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted campaigning.
Photos show bodies being pulled from mud and debris following the disaster in a remote part of Enga province.

People gather at the site of a landslide in Maip Mulitaka in Papua New Guinea's Enga Province on May 24, 2024.

Scores of people are feared dead after a landslide struck a remote highlands province in the Pacific island nation of Papua New Guinea on Friday.

Images posted to social media showed bodies being pulled from mud and debris on the slopes of Mt. Mungalo in Enga province, about 600 kilometers (372 miles) northwest of the capital Port Moresby.

The landslide hit the village of Kaokalam about 3 a.m. and destroyed transport and communications links to the remote region, including access to the Porgera gold mine, the Australian Broadcasting Corp (ABC) said on Friday.

It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours and the entire village has gone down, Elizabeth Laruma, president of the Porgera Women in Business Association, told the ABC.

From what I can presume, its about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground.

Local authorities have not yet confirmed the figures, but provincial governor Peter Ipatas told AFP news agency that more than six villages had been hit, describing the scene as an unprecedented natural disaster.

Prime Minister James Marape extended his condolences to the victims' families and said rescue efforts were underway.

We are sending in disaster officials, the PNG Defence Force and the Department of Works and Highways to meet provincial and district officials in Enga and also start relief work, recovery of bodies and reconstruction of infrastructure, he said in a statement.

The island of New Guinea is located on the Ring of Fire  a belt of volcanoes and seismic activity around the edges of the Pacific Ocean  and lies where the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates meet in what is known as the Papuan Fold.

At least 160 people died in an earthquake in 2018 in neighboring Hela Province that also caused major infrastructure damage.
Marawi families affected by the five-month siege in 2017 appeal for adequate funds from Philippine government to rebuild their homes.

A section of downtown Marawi remains unoccupied, seven years after Islamic State militants from Southeast Asia and the Middle East took over the lakeshore city in a failed bid to make Marawi a caliphate in the region, May 23, 2024.

Seven years after Islamic State militants laid siege to the southern Philippine city of Marawi, tens of thousands of residents remain displaced in squalid villages on the outskirts of the war-torn area.

Government compensation funds for individuals whose homes and properties had been damaged during the five month-long conflict were not enough to rebuild them, some civic groups and residents said.

The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB)  established under the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022 to handle claims filed by people whose homes were destroyed or damaged in the battle  had adopted the real estate assessment made by the Lanao del Sur local government as the basis for the payment, according to Drieza Liningding, a local civic leader.

[But] what was appraised  was already too low considering the prices [of construction materials] today, said Liningding, head of the Moro Consensus Group, a local civic organization.

Around 80,000 people out of the citys 207,000-plus residents  or close to 40% of total residents  were still unable to return home and rebuild their properties, Liningding added.

Liningding said a number of civic organizations and hundreds of displaced residents had already appealed to national and local officials to look into the MCBs basis for compensation.

Liningding himself lost his home during the fighting, which began on May 23, 2017. He counts himself among the luckier ones who managed to return to the lakeshore city with the help of his relatives.

Some residents said they rejected the governments compensation offer, saying the MCBs appraisal of their homes and buildings was too low and did not reflect their fair market value.

The prices of cement, gravel and building materials have gone up since our houses were destroyed seven years ago, Marawi resident Fatma Baraocor told BenarNews.

Baraocor said she had rejected the P200,000 (about U.S. $3,436) offer of the MCB for the repairs of her two-story house in the village of East Marinaut, where some of the heaviest fighting happened. She said the payment was not enough to pay for the repairs of her house.

Some residents also did not have property titles to prove ownership of their lands, which have been passed through generations by their ancestors.

MCB chair Maisara Dandamun-Latiph said the board decided to adopt the real estate appraisal of the Lanao del Sur provincial government instead of Marawis own appraisal as the basis for the payment of destroyed properties since it offered a higher payment.

Children flock around a volunteer handing out school materials including notebooks and pencils in Marawi City, southern Philippines, May 23, 2024. [Froilan Gallardo/BenarNews]





The Philippine government allotted about P1 billion ($17.19 million) as reparations for the lives, buildings, houses and other properties lost during the five-month battle in 2017.

In January this year, MCB member lawyer Mabandes Diron said the government would pay P35,000 pesos ($601) per square meter for any concrete building destroyed or damaged, and about half of that amount for wooden houses.

Those who had lost a relative in the conflict were eligible for a compensation package valued at P350,000 ($6,014).

The compensation board has processed the applications of around 20,000 claimants since January this year, and has paid out about P175 million ($3.07 million) in claims so far, said lawyer Sittie Raifah Pamaloy-Hassan, who oversees the dispensing of funds.

The battle of Marawi, which ended in late October 2017, saw the largest fighting in recent memory in the southern part of the Philippines.

During the conflict, the Philippine government fought with pro-Islamic State (IS) militants, who had launched a wave of violence in the city, shooting non-Muslims on the spot, and taking hostage dozens of civilians they used as human shields.

U.S. and Australian forces later helped the government in the fight, helping track militant movements and mark targets from the air.

Militant leaders, led by Isnilon Hapilon, a former commander of the Abu Sayyaf militant group, fought hard but were eventually killed in the conflict.

Still waiting

Four years ago, resident Acmad, 45, began working as a guard for a ruined three-story building in the citys downtown area. He is still there keeping a watchful eye over the property.

He shares a small dilapidated room with his wife and two young children. A gaping hole in a wall of their room provides a stark reminder of the bloody siege that transformed the city into a wasteland.

The [property] owner is still waiting for the money from the government to repair this building and he has been waiting for four years, Acmad told BenarNews as he pointed at the damage of the battle-scarred building.

Maybe he had to wait a little longer.
A Thai soldier mans a mounted gun near the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge No. 2 in Mae Sot, Thailand, April 13, 2024.

Dozens of Burmese soldiers fled into Thailand following a clash with ethnic minority insurgents, a Thai commander told Radio Free Asia on Friday, the latest spillover from increasingly bitter fighting across the border in Myanmar.

The junta troops fled a base in Kayin States southern Myawaddy district following attacks from the anti-junta Karen National Liberation Army, or KNLA, and allied groups, the Thai officer said.

There were 31 Myanmar soldiers surrendering, said Ratchamanu Task Force Commander Col. Nattakorn Reuntib, who is based in western Thailands Tak province, on the Myanmar border.

They were disarmed, identified, treated and are awaiting repatriation through the Thai-Myanmar border coordination center, he told RFA, a news service affiliated with BenarNews.

Some troops were injured, he added. RFA could not confirm where they were being treated.

A KNLA soldier said about 20 junta soldiers were killed when Karen fighters captured their Po Chi Mu camp.

The camp has been captured. Forty-eight junta troops, including officers, surrendered and about 20 were found dead, the soldier said, declining to be identified for security reasons.

An official from the Karen rebel force, which has been battling for self-determination for decades, told RFA that the junta troops escaping into Thailand had killed four civilians.

The Thai army found the fleeing junta soldiers near Ohm Phyan village and arrested them, he said, also requesting anonymity for safety reasons.

They killed three villagers and another, a pregnant woman on her way to hospital, when they fled. They are now being questioned by the Thai army  but we dont know what theyll do with them, said the official, who declined to be identified for security reasons.

Karen forces have been attacking the Po Chi Mu camp, opposite Thailands Umphang district, since May 19 and junta airstrikes in the area have forced hundreds to flee into Thailand, media reported.

Myanmars junta has been coming under pressure in different parts of the country since anti-junta forces went on offensive late last year.

Pro-democracy activists took up arms after the Burmese generals toppled an elected government in a February 2021 coup, joining with ethnic minority insurgents to pose the most significant challenge to the military since shortly after the countrys independence from Britain.

Junta forces fled into Thailand during fighting in April with Karen forces over control of the main border town of Myawaddy. The Thai government warned both sides not to use Thai territory for any military advantage.
Chancellor John Sharp invited companies to submit ideas for building natural gas power plants on Texas A&M System land, but there may be better options. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Danny Lynch, site manager, walks through a battery storage yard at the Blue Jay solar and storage plant in Iola in September. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer The natural gas power plants built between 1958 and 1968 at NRGs WA Parish power plant in Richmond. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer In this file photo, General Manager Darryl Nitschke talks on the radio as he makes the rounds of the Panda Power Plant in Sherman, north of Dallas. Louis DeLuca

The Texas Aggies have a plan to save the electric grid.

Chancellor John Sharp invited private companies to submit ideas for building natural gas power plants on Texas A&M System land. Hes interested in so-called peakers that operate only when supply and demand are tight.

Aggies dont mind the roar of turbines or the exhaust fumes if giving up some land will help the state remain air-conditioned.

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This will help ensure our campuses and their local communities never go dark again while adding power to help ensure all of Texas is protected, Sharp said in a bold statement typical in College Station.

Sharp's is just one of many solutions folks are floating to keep the lights on when the sky is dark or the wind is still. The quandary is which proposal will become a boondoggle.

Sharp wants to team up with generation companies and tap the new Texas Energy Fund. The Legislature gave more than $5 billion in taxpayer money to the Public Utility Commission for a low-interest loan program intended to encourage generators to build new natural gas power plants.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed the law, and Texas voters approved a constitutional amendment, even though the states largest generators said they didnt need loans. What they really wanted was a more reliable return on investment from the states wholesale electricity market.

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Since then, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has promised that the state government will build more natural gas plants if the private sector wont, thereby blowing up the competitive electricity market. Every Republican politician knows that another electric grid failure would be disastrous for Texass ruling party, so no option is off the table.

Abbott and Patrick have prioritized new fossil fuel facilities to please their oil and gas donors, who love locking in customers for the next 30 years. Right now, every time a generation company builds a battery facility instead of a natural gas plant, a gas executive loses a bonus.

In a more innovative move, the Texas Energy Fund includes $1.8 billion in grants and loans for local authorities to go off the grid when the power supply gets tight. Hospitals, emergency services and other facilities can use the cash to build microgrids that can stand alone by relying on batteries or natural gas.

Microgrids not only ensure emergency services but reduce demand and, therefore, the likelihood of blackouts. Reducing electricity demand when temperatures spike or polar vortexes strike is cheaper than building new generation.

The PUC closed out comments Thursday on how best to boost demand reduction and energy efficiency. New heating and cooling systems, smart thermostats, better insulation and other basics could eliminate the need to build 23,500 megawatts worth of peaker plants, a report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy determined. Thats enough power for 5.8 million homes.

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Natural gas peaker plants may not offer the best bang for the buck in adding more supply. Most pinch points in electricity demand last less than four hours, which means batteries could meet most of our needs.

In January, Texas had 1,200 megawatts of battery backup. Earlier this month, batteries saved the day by providing 3,000 megawatts. By August, Texas could have more than 4,000 megawatts of battery backup available. Generators have big plans to add even more battery power by next winter.

The U.S. military is experimenting with geothermal plants that use the heat deep below the Earths surface to generate electricity. Pilot programs are promising, and most of Texas is well-suited for the technology.

Lastly, Texas taxpayer money would be better spent connecting the Electric Reliability Council of Texas grid to the rest of the nation. Rarely does a storm hit the whole country at once, which means we can sell electricity to other states when we have excess wind and solar power, and we can buy nuclear from other states when we run low.

Sharps desire to help address electric reliability is admirable, and adding new revenue sources for the A&M system is wise. But his team should scrutinize the proposals he received carefully because if peaker plants were such a surefire investment, the state wouldnt need to offer discounted loans to get them built. There are better ways.

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Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 62F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies and rain later during the night. Low 37F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
BENNINGTON  The Bennington plumbing contractor who allegedly ripped off multiple homeowners for thousands of dollars in a string of home improvement fraud cases dating back to 2010 was supposed to plead guilty to three felony home improvement fraud charges at a change of plea hearing Thursday.

Robert Billings, 50, was to plead guilty to three counts of home improvement fraud greater than $1,000. In exchange, state prosecutors would have dismissed a fourth fraud case and an unrelated misdemeanor DUI charge. Billings was to serve a 3 to 7-year prison sentence with full restitution to all his victims.

Thats what was supposed to happen. That's not what did happen.

Instead, Judge Kerry McDonald-Cady questioned the prosecution about whether the maximum length of the sentence was appropriate to protect the community. Then, the defense let the court know they disputed the amounts owed to the homeowners. Finally, when the judge read the factual basis for the charges as part of the plea deal, the defendant disagreed with those facts, scrapping the deal at least until another day.

Now, the court will set a new hearing to figure it all out.

Hes still not able to take responsibility for what he did, said one of the victims on her way out of the courtroom after the hearing.

Billings was initially facing a possible life sentence as a habitual offender under Vermont law for two of the counts after convictions in several felony home improvement fraud cases dating back to 2010. He was later charged with two more home improvement felonies while the first two were still pending. The new cases all had similar circumstances. The four cases occurred between 2021 and 2023.

A habitual offender in Vermont is a person who has had three or more previous felony convictions, allowing prosecutors to ask for a life sentence if convicted again.

I have some questions on the maximum part of the plea deal sentence, Judge McDonald-Cady said soon after the hearing got underway. Specifically, is it enough?

McDonald-Cady was referring to the fact that Billing will still be of working age after the maximum sentence expires. She told the court she feared that some other member of the community could still possibly hire Billings after he gets out.

Prosecutor Deanna Cortney reminded the judge that Billings was already on Vermonts Home Improvement Registry, to which the judge replied, He was already on it when these victims hired him. I want to know if this sentence protects the public from that?

Prosecutor Courtney, covering in the case, told the judge, It is a light sentence compared to a life sentence, but it is not nothing.

The judge didnt seem to agree.

After a short recess, McDonald-Cady asked both sides if restitution amounts were agreed to. Both sides told the judge they had not been, and the judge ordered a separate restitution hearing.

The next step was supposed to be a recitation of the facts in the case, a standard part of any plea deal where the defendant admits to what happened. That didnt happen either.

Your honor, Billings said from the defense table, I cannot admit to some of these facts. This happened when I was a different person. Im not that person anymore. I was injured and couldnt perform the work. To that, I agree, but I did not go in intending to defraud anyone.

According to court documents, Billings failed to complete  or refund deposits to three individuals totaling over $16,000. A fourth charge of fraud was to be dismissed as part of the deal. That homeowner settled with a $2,850 restitution already paid to the owner. Each one of the three felony counts carries the habitual offender status

In November 2021, Billings contracted with an 84-year-old Bennington homeowner to replace a furnace on Scott Street. Billings received deposit checks totaling $8,300 for the work, stating that the homeowner needed to replace his entire furnace. Nearly two years later, the work was never completed. No money was returned. A second opinion was given to the homeowner in 2023, informing him that the old furnace did not need replacement.

In October 2022, Billings entered into a contract with Winhall homeowners for extensive plumbing work on their Beaver Street home. Several deposit checks totaling $6,000 were written to Billings for the job. It was never completed. Billings returned $600 to the homeowners several months after they threatened to go to the police. $5,400 was never refunded.

In February 2023, Billings promised to fix a heating problem for a Bennington homeowner, including installing a new oil tank. The homeowner gave Billings four checks totaling $10,900 for the work, which was never performed. A heating expert later confirmed to the homeowner that a new oil tank was unnecessary.

Billings was also facing a misdemeanor DUI charge, which was to also be dismissed in the plea deal. He was allegedly operating a motor vehicle on a public highway when police pulled him over in December 2023. Billings reportedly refused a breathalyzer test at the scene. He is facing a possible two-year sentence if convicted of the DUI offense.

Billings has a lengthy criminal record in Vermont, including at least five home improvement fraud convictions in Vermont between 2010 and 2016. He is the first home improvement contractor to face a possible life sentence in Vermont history.

Back in February, Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark announced Vermont's top 10 consumer complaints in 2023. Home improvement fraud occurred at number two with 173 consumer complaints, second only to motor vehicle complaints. A check of Billings on the official state fraud registry showed at least eight listings.

Billings is still in custody at the Marble Valley Regional Correctional Facility in Rutland on an unmet $5,000 bail set before his plea deal. He was taken back into custody immediately following the conclusion of the hearing. A new hearing has not been set in the now ongoing case.

Thats who he is, said another of the homeowner victims as they left the courtroom. Hes a habitual offender and a liar. He befriends you, then he pounces. This is just his way of dragging it out. I dont think he will ever take responsibility for anything hes done.
Allen Harris is the owner of Berkshire Money Management in Dalton. He can be reached at aharris@berkshiremm.com.
Ben Diamond as _Davey, Pierre Marais as Jack Kelly and Cailen Fu as Katherine in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor Cailen Fu as Katherine in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor Pierre Marais as Jack Kelly and Cailen Fu as Katherine in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor Cailen Fu as Katherine with cast in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor The cast of 'Newsies' at TUTS Houston Melissa Taylor Christina Wells as Medda Larkin in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor Pierre Marais as Jack Kelly in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor

Broadway loves an underdog. Elphaba in "Wicked." Mark and Roger in "Rent." Ponyboy in "The Outsiders."

Theatre Under the Stars has a whole cast of them onstage in "Newsies." The Disney musical is based on the real-life newsboys' strike of 1899, led by young workers in New York who demanded better wages. It's based on the 1992 movie musical starring a teenage Christian Bale that was originally a flop but has since earned a cult following. The stage musical ran for more than two years and 1,004 performances on Broadway.

MORE FROM JOEY GUERRA: Pride Houston will feature performances by K. Michelle and David Archuleta at downtown festival

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"Newsies" is the type of show that comes to mind when someone says "Broadway!" (Exclamation point included.) It's an old-fashioned musical in the best way: zippy and feel-good, full of earnest singing and spectacular dancing. This new TUTS production, running through June 2 at Hobby Center, pulls it all together with strong direction and choreography, along with several standout performances.

Luis-Pablo Garcia as Crutchie in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor

The show opens with Jack Kelly and his best friend Crutchie atop a New York City rooftop in 1899, dreaming of a better life. They set out for their daily task of delivering newspapers alongside other young men, including newbies Davey and his younger brother Les. At the same time, New York World publisher Joseph Pulitzer is meeting with executives to discuss the paper's declining circulation. To alleviate the problem, he raises the price for the newsies by ten cents. Frustrated at the increase and lack of respect, the newsies decide to unionize.

Though it's set more than a century ago, the themes in "Newsies" still ring with relevancy: child exploitation, unfair labor practices, uniting against a common enemy, disparity between social classes. They're just accessorized with newsboy caps instead of smartphones.

Cailen Fu as Katherine with cast in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor

As leader of the newsies, Jack Kelly is the show's emotional center. Pierre Marais, granted a leave from "Aladdin" on Broadway, has multiple challenges in the role. He must provide moments of tenderness, keep the story moving and instill confidence in his cohorts and the audience. Marais meets every challenge and is incredibly charming onstage. His voice and dancing provide solid support for the rest of the cast.

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Cailen Fu manages the right balance of poise and spirit as Katherine, a journalist covering the newsies who strikes up a romance with Jack. Her vocals, particularly during "Something to Believe In," are sublime. Ben Diamond has leading man charisma as Davey; and Luis-Pablo Garcia brings humor and heart to Crutchie. Among the crew of newsies, Christopher Tipps is a standout. He's the best dancer, the most expressive with his face and body and takes the focus every time he's onstage. Somebody cast him in a lead already.

Christina Wells as Medda Larkin in 'Newsies' at TUTS. Melissa Taylor

Christina Wells is, no surprise, a standout as Medda Larkin, a friend of Jack's who owns a burlesque theater. Wells shifts the energy of a show anytime she steps onstage. Her solo turn on "That's Rich" is a caffeine blast of sass, brass and confidence. Everett Baumgarten is also remarkably good as Les, the youngest newsie and excitable brother to Davey. Baumgarten has an ease onstage that's striking to watch. He's a natural actor. (Baumgarten alternates the role with Daniel Karash.)

It's no spoiler to reveal that the newsies triumph in the end, Jack gets the girl and it all ends with a lot of synchronized dancing. You'd have to be a Pulitzer not to cheer.

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Zach Cook loads meat into a cooler in the aftermath of destructive storms at Feges BBQ in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

Customers were enjoying their dinner at Jun when the derecho storm swept through the Heights last week.

As the wind picked up speed and rain pelted the windows, they joined the restaurants employees huddling in a cramped shortage area seeking shelter. The fish bowl-like room, where about 30 people were eating skewers of prawns and throwing back cold micheladas, started to flood. There was no power.

It was black out there, said Henry Lu, Juns co-owner and chef. Ive never seen the sky turn like that so quickly.

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When Lu and Evelyn Garcia, also a co-owner and chef, finally left Jun that Thursday night, they saw dangling power lines and fallen trees dotting the neighborhood.

When we drove away, I knew this was not good, Garcia said. We werent going to get any power back.

Jun, one of Houstons buzziest restaurants, remained dark for nearly a week until electricity was restored on Wednesday afternoon.

Theres no official count on how many Houston restaurants could not reopen or still remained closed because of power outages or storm damages, but many restaurateurs and chefs agree that unexpectedly closing for a day or two  let alone a week  can be harmful to businesses.

HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants

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The Feges kitchen staff was working to reopen the restaurant nearly a week after a storm hit Houston.

Nearly 18,000 customers were still without power as of Thursday afternoon, according to CenterPoint.

The hodgepodge of outages throughout the Houston region is hitting Littles Oyster Bar hard.

Located in Montrose at the corner of Shepherd and Alabama, the Pappas family restaurant has not served a single cold platter of raw seafood or hits like its chicken fried red snapper in over a week.

Its a different story across the street from Littles: Trader Joes inside the former Alabama Theatre to the west and the decades-old Demeris Bar-B-Q to the north have been open for days.

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Were working hard to reopen as soon as possible and will keep you updated. Thank you for your patience, is the latest update from Littles, the Houston Chronicles No. 1 restaurant last year.

Even when power is restored, especially after days of no service, restaurants cannot always simply reopen.

At Jun, Garcia and Lu had cleared their refrigerators when they served about 1,000 free meals the day after the storm. They figured they lost at least $10,000 worth of food.

Before reopening at 5 p.m. Friday, the staff has had to scrub everything down, check for any damages and order all the fresh produce and meats they need to serve their Asian-inspired menu.

Insurance can cover only so much, and the restaurant lost out on nearly $50,000 in sales during the past week, according to Lu and Garcia.

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We just need our guests to come back, Lu said. Thats all we can ask for right now.

MORE FROM BAO ONG: James Beard-nominated group plans to open another Mediterranean restaurant this summer

Feges had to restock its kitchen after closing for nearly a week

The storm damage forced hundreds of restaurants and bars to close for days, which left hospitality employees, a majority of whom are paid an hourly wage, with smaller or no paychecks at all.

Many restaurant owners pointed their staff to the Southern Smoke Foundation, a nonprofit founded by chef Chris Shepherd and executive director Lindsey Brown, to whom Shepherd is married. The organization helps provide funds in emergency situations to food-and-beverage workers across the country in addition to other services like mental health counseling.

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The foundation has received more than 50 applications a day since the storm and is on track to surpass the number of requests it received since the Maui wildfires.

So far the nonprofit has awarded $50,800 in disaster relief grants to Houston workers, and it plans to spend up to $300,000 as more applications are processed, according to a spokesperson.

Over at Feges BBQ, many of the restaurants employees live in Spring Branch, one of the hardest-hit areas. One worker didnt have a place to stay, so the owners Patrick and Erin Feges put her up in a hotel for a few nights.

The Fegeses, who themselves had no power at home for five days, helped their employee just as customers had shown support for them over the past week.

On the day following the storm, the Feges BBQ team cooked up ingredients for barbecue and even pizzas before they spoiled and served up free meals. Some people left hundred-dollar bills, and employees had to empty the tip jar to make room for more donations.

Friends helped them store expensive cuts of briskets, but they still have to see if they can still sell certain bottles of wine. The menu will be limited as they reopen.
Chris Hemsworth was honoured during a Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony which saw his Avengers co-star Robert Downey Jr mark the occasion with a roast of the Thor actor.

Australian actor Hemsworth received a star in the category of motion pictures alongside Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga director George Miller and co-star Anya Taylor Joy, as well as his parents, wife Elsa Pataky and their three children.

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During the Hollywood ceremony, Iron Man star Downey Jr said he had spoken to their Marvel friends Jeremy Renner, who plays Hawkeye, Hulk star Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, who plays Black Widow, and Captain Americas Chris Evans.

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Here comes the roast, Downey Jr said.

I reached out to his fellow Avengers to distil three simple describing words what is Chris Hemsworth, Downey Jr said.

Elsa Pataky, Chris Hemsworth, George Miller, Robert Downey Jr and Anya Taylor-Joy (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

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First off, Renner says absurdly, annoyingly, amazing. Ruffalo came in strong with friend from work.

Scarlett got to the heart of it with sensitive leading lady. Captain America calls him second best Chris.

There is no-one who deserves this more. He is Hollywood star recipient.

Downey Jr, who won an Oscar this year for his role in Oppenheimer, also lauded the actor for his talents.

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Robert Downey Jrand Chris Hemsworth attend a ceremony honouring Hemsworth with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

Beyond the cape and the hammer is a contagious Aussie charm, the 59-year-old said.

You are a remarkable human being, its no fun following you, youre a legend.

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Chris is a bit daunting to describe, hes very elusive because of the pretty packaging.

However, upon further inspection down under, he has a true blue wit and he has a depth of soul and it has been my sincere pleasure to know you over these many years, but you keep us Hollywood folks on our toes because youre just a real dude.

Hemsworth will next be seen as warlord leader Dementus in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga  which is set for release on Friday.

During the ceremony, director Miller said he was happy to report that Hemsworth is a great human being, as well as describing him as a great actor.

George Miller and Chris Hemsworth attend a ceremony honouring Hemsworth with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

Forty-five years ago, when we started off making the first Mad Max, there were a group of motorcycle riders who were going to appear in the film, and one of them happened to be a guy called Craig Hemsworth.

He was 19 at the time, he couldnt do the film because he was going to university and thats where he met Leonie, his wife.

45 years later, I got to work with one of their sons, Chris, in Furiosa. Filming only finished about a month ago with Anya and Chris and a whole bunch of wonderful actors.

I got to know him as a professional (while) working, and I was incredibly impressed by the way that he worked  well beyond my expectations  and in the way that he brought people together.

Taking to the stage, Hemsworth thanked Downey Jr and Miller who he described as two icons of the industry and two of my heroes.

(Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

Hemsworth said his oldest friend was also in the crowd of the ceremony.

When we were six years old, right up until we were at the end of high school, 18, we would be reciting movies and lines from movies and doing it for the pure passion and joy of it and not knowing or thinking I was going to be an actor one day, but because we loved story telling, he said.

To have this dream be a reality, to be a much larger kid than I was then but still be doing the same thing, which is living out my passion and my dream is, again hard to put into words. It has a very surreal quality to it.

I think a lot of the reason that I believed in myself doing this was the belief that my friends and family had for me, and specifically, my parents, who raised me with the belief that if you choose something youre passionate about, if you lean into that thing that you love with your heart and soul, then the purpose and the meaning is laid out in front of you and you give things value by committing to it.

Elsa Pataky and Chris Hemsworth (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

Hemsworth also said he is forever in debt to his wife who has been by his side endlessly encouraging and supportive during his career.

It doesnt get lost upon me that she put aside her own dreams in order to support mine.

The fact that nothing that I do, any of these moments and special occasions or these events, none of it is special without you by my side, the 40-year-old added.
A coroner has warned that there is no quality or quantity of cocaine that is safe ever after the death of a young Dublin man from a drugs overdose while socialising at home with housemates two years ago.

Coroner Aisling Gannon made her remarks about the danger of consuming cocaine at an inquest into the death of David OGrady at his home at Carraig Bui, Johnstown Road, Cabinteely, Co Dublin, on June 6th, 2022.

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A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court heard the 31-year-old sales account manager with a recruitment firm was found unresponsive on the floor of the bedroom of one of his housemates where he had fallen asleep the night before.

One of the housemates, Sorcha Deane, told the hearing that Mr OGrady and her two other housemates had been drinking alcohol when she and a friend, Aoife McCabe, had gone out for lunch the previous day before returning at 4pm.

Ms Deane said the three men joined them in her bedroom at around 6pm where they all drank alcohol.

She recalled that Mr OGrady originally seemed fine but that his condition seemed to change after he started going in and out of her room and began to slur his words and become unsteady.

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The witness said she was aware that her housemate used to take opiates and Xanax.

Ms Deane said she had spoken previously to Mr OGrady about his drug taking, and he had said he wanted to go to rehab.

I hoped he would get back on track.

She told the inquest that he fell asleep on the floor of her bedroom at around 11pm and was later snoring loudly and could not be woken.

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Ms Deane said Mr OGrady appeared quite still at some stage the following morning and did not seem to be moving.

She alerted her other housemates when Ms McCabe got no response when she tried to shake him.

Ms McCabe told the coroner that Mr OGrady had appeared more drunk than anyone else in the house and was aware that he had taken tablets.

She recalled being woken by Ms Deane to say that something was wrong with their friend.

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Another housemate, Nicholas Watts, said he was aware that Mr OGrady, with whom he was friends since they attended Newpark Comprehensive School in Blackrock, had an addiction issue.

Mr Watts said, shortly before his death, his friend had for the first time mentioned his wish to go to rehab.

I hoped he would get back on track, he observed.

He recalled Mr OGrady slumped to the ground while the group of friends were chatting but noted it had happened before, and he had placed his friend in the recovery position.

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Mr Watts said he was subsequently woken by Ms Deanes screaming over not being able to wake their housemate, and he helped to provide CPR until an ambulance crew arrived at the house.

It was a complete shock. One of the worst days I ever experienced in my life, he added.

Shock

Another housemate and former schoolmate of the deceased, Jamie McStay, recalled that everyone was a bit shocked when Mr OGrady appeared to pass out.

Mr McStay said it was felt that their friend was OK when he started snoring after being put in the recovery position.

When he later responded to cries from his other housemate, he said he found Mr OGrady was not breathing and his lips were blue.

Although Mr McStay said he was aware his friend used to take tablets, he added: I did not think something like this would happen.

Garda Darragh Hughes confirmed to the inquest that no foul play was suspected in relation to Mr OGradys death.

The coroner noted that a 999 call to alert emergency services to attend the house had been made at 6.59am.

In response to questions by the deceaseds mother, Ann OGrady, about packets of tablets found near her sons body, Ms Gannon said they had probably been left there by paramedics who had sought information about what drugs he might have taken.

The deceaseds brother, Stephen OGrady, gave evidence of being alerted by one of his brothers friends via Facebook about what happened before travelling to Cabinteely to formally identify his brothers body to gardai.

Ms Gannon said a postmortem showed Mr OGrady had died as a result of multi-drug toxicity with evidence of cocaine, diazepam, ketamine and alprazolam (Xanax) found in his body.

The coroner said it was not possible to state when exactly Mr OGrady had taken the drugs and in what quantities but noted the postmortem found a toxic level of alprazolam.

She added: There is no quality or quantity of cocaine that is safe, ever.

Ms Gannon pointed out that cocaine was known to cause an irregular heartbeat in users.

The coroner said the deceased had also tested positive for Covid-19, which she assessed as being a contributory factor in his death.

Ms Gannon offered her sympathy to Mr OGradys family on their devastating loss and noted that it was very difficult for his loved ones to hear about the events of his death and for his friends who were there at the time to relive the experience.

Returning a verdict of death by misadventure, the coroner said Mr OGradys death was the unintended consequence of consuming drugs on the date in question.
A Dublin man has been accused of the disposal of body parts and impeding the investigation into the murder and dismemberment of Keane Mulready Woods in 2020.

Stephen Carberry (46) appeared at Dublin District Court on Friday, facing three charges.

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The accused made no application for bail, and the trial will be heard by the non-jury Special Criminal Court.

Judge Monika Leech remanded Mr Carberry, of Adair Apartments, Sandymount, Dublin 4, in custody to appear again on May 31st.

Keane Mulready Woods (17) was last seen alive by his family on the evening of Sunday, January 12th, 2020.

He was killed, and his body was later dismembered.

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Remains were found at Coolock and in a burned-out vehicle at Trinity Terrace, Dublin, and at Rathmullan Park in Drogheda, Co Louth. The remains were subsequently identified as being that of the teenager.

Mr Carberry is accused of damaging a Volvo V40 car by fire, bearing false registration plates for the benefit of a criminal organisation, on January 15th at Trinity Terrace, Ballybough, Dublin 3.

The second charge alleges that from January 13th to 15th, 2020, at Trinity Terrace, to enhance the ability of a criminal organisation to commit a serious offence, murder, he participated in or contributed to the transportation and disposal of body parts of Keane Mulready Woods.

The third charge states that over the same two-day period, at locations in the State, he impeded the apprehension or prosecution of another person who committed the murder and knowing they were guilty of that or another offence.

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Detective Sergeant Enda OSullivan told Judge Leech that Mr Carberry replied, I was never in Ballybough, to one charge and did not respond to the other two.

Det Sgt OSullivan added that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has decided that Mr Carberry should be tried in the Special Criminal Court.

He said he expects the book of evidence will not be ready for at least four weeks.

Defence solicitor John Feaheny said his client was not applying for bail at this stage.

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The judge remanded Mr Carberry in custody to appear again next Friday, but noted that the book of evidence would not be ready at that point.

Legal aid was granted to Mr Carberry.

Co-accused

A second man, Owen Flood (30), who faces related charges, also appeared before the same court.

He is accused of using a stolen car at Sandymount Avenue, Dublin 4, on December 19th, 2019.

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On the same date, it is alleged that Mr Flood, of Ballybough Avenue, Dublin 3, stole 50 of Diesel from Applegreen Service Station, M1 Northbound, Lusk, Co Dublin.

Detective Sergeant Fergus Finnegan said Mr Floods reply to the charge was: Ill plead guilty straight away.

The DPP instructed that Mr Flood would face trial on indictment in the Circuit Court. A book of evidence must also be drafted for his case.

He was granted legal aid after the judge was informed he had no assets.

His solicitor, Aoife McTaggart, said the defence was reserving our position on bail. He was remanded in custody to appear again next Friday.

Neither defendant addressed the court during their brief separate appearances before Judge Leech.

Last year, two men were jailed by the Special Criminal Court for connected crimes.

Gerard Cruise (50), of Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to a charge that, with knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, he facilitated the murder of Keane Mulready Woods, at Rathmullan Park, Drogheda. He was handed a seven-year jail term.

Paul Crosby (28), of Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to the same charge and was imprisoned for 10 years.

Those proceedings heard that the prime suspect in the murder was Robert Lawlor, a notorious criminal. Lawlor (36), from Dublin, was shot dead in Belfast in April 2020.
The DUP has announced that Jonathan Buckley will be its candidate in the Lagan Valley constituency at the Westminster election  the seat currently held by former party leader Jeffrey Donaldson.

Mr Buckley is an MLA in the neighbouring Upper Bann constituency.

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Making the announcement in Belfast, interim party leader Gavin Robinson described Mr Buckley as the next generation advocate for unionist voters in the area.

He also repeated the call for unionist unity in the election, stating there were several seats that presented opportunities for co-operation with other unionist leaders.

The DUPs Jonathan Buckley is currently an MLA for the Upper Bann constituency (Liam McBurney/PA)

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Former party leader Mr Donaldson has held the Lagan Valley seat for 27 years.

His lawyer announced this week that he would not be seeking re-election after he was charged with a number of historical sex offences, which he has indicated he will be contesting.

Mr Robinson said he knew there had been considerable interest in the Lagan Valley selection process as he confirmed that MLAs Emma Little-Pengelly and Paul Givan, who both represent the constituency at Stormont, would continue in their roles as deputy First Minister and Education Minister.

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Announcing that Mr Buckley would run, he said: With recent changes in Lagan Valley boundaries, almost 7,000 who were formerly in his Upper Bann constituency have now moved to Lagan Valley.

Jonathan has strong links, including through family, to the Lisburn and wider Lagan Valley area.

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Mr Buckley said: I am running in Lagan Valley because I am putting country first.

I am running in Lagan Valley to ensure pro-union voters can unite behind a candidate and ensure Lagan Valley has strong representation at Westminster.

The DUP is expected to face stiff competition in the constituency from Sorcha Eastwood from the cross-community Alliance Party. The Ulster Unionist Party is also running a high-profile candidate through its deputy leader Robbie Butler.

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DUP interim leader Gavin Robinson repeated a call for unionist unity (Jonathan McCambridge/PA)

Mr Robinson rejected any suggestion of criticism that his party was running a candidate who does not represent Lagan Valley at Stormont.

He said: Let me say I am not parachuting anybody in.

Johnny, along with the 7,000 individuals that he represents in Upper Bann, have been moved outside of their choice through Boundary Commission changes.

All our constituencies are different and people recognise that.

So, if Johnny is a blow-in and any candidate in Lagan Valley would like to suggest he is, then they are dismissing the 7,000 that are walking with him.

They are in Lagan Valley together. He is standing with the people he represents today as their candidate for Westminster in Lagan Valley.

Mr Robinson said he believed that unionist unity was something which resonated strongly with voters.

However, other unionist parties in the region, the Ulster Unionists and the Traditional Unionist Voice, have said they are not interested in electoral pacts.

Mr Robinson sad: Whilst I will do what I can to respect and honour the wishes of the people we have the privilege of representing, if other parties cant see beyond themselves, if other parties cant bring themselves to set aside person for country, then that is a matter for them.

But that gives the people a choice and it is a choice I know in previous elections they have made strongly of their own view that if the parties cant do it then they can, they will plump for those that stand up and speak out for Northern Ireland positively and powerfully.

The party also announced that Belfast City councillor Tracy Kelly would be the candidate in the Belfast South and Mid Down constituency.

Mr Robinson also confirmed that all of the partys seven current MPs have been reselected.
Fianna Fail MEP candidate Niall Blaney accused his party of favouritism at the launch of its European election manifesto in Dublin on Friday.

Tanaiste and leader of Fianna Fail Micheal Martin denied this was the case, and said all candidates had received significant support.

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Mr Blaney is running for a seat in the European Parliament in the MidlandsNorth-West constituency, along with his party colleagues Barry Cowen and Lisa Chambers.

Fianna Fail MEP candidate Niall Blaney was asked whether he felt supported by the party. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

A recent poll by the Irish Times puts Mr Cowen on 10 per cent, Ms Chambers on 9 per cent, and Mr Blaney on 4 per cent, three of 27 candidates in the five-seater constituency.

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At the launch of the partys European election manifesto in Dublin, Ms Chambers and Mr Blaney were asked whether they felt supported by their party.

Ms Chambers said there was a healthy tension between the Fianna Fail candidates in the constituency.

I wouldnt be contesting these elections without the support of my leader and my party, Ms Chambers said.

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Theres healthy tensions within the party because our ticket is competitive, the constituency is competitive, and I think it shows that our party is doing well, because people want to contest elections on the Fianna Fail ticket.

Mr Blaney responded: Unfortunately, I am not getting the same support as other candidates are getting in this campaign, and thats a problem for me. It has been for weeks.

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I have never had any opportunity on national television yet, Im the only candidate of the six.

That is not just about me, thats about the people I represent in the Border counties and Connacht. We need the same opportunity as everybody else to make the most of the Fianna Fail vote and go for that second seat, its very much there.

Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, left to right, and candidates Cynthia Ni Mhurchu and Niall Blaney were appearing at a launch event in Dublin on Friday. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

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He said that the MidlandsNorth-West constituency was in need of better infrastructure and was not getting our fair share.

I feel theres a real opportunity now to take a seat on the Border and Connacht counties. But we need equal support for the last two weeks. And not just support for a few. If the Tanaiste goes on a canvass he goes on a canvass with all three, and if he goes to do videos with one candidate, he has to do videos with all three.

Mr Martin said he had canvassed with Mr Blaney, and the only candidate he had not canvassed with yet was Ms Chambers.

When Mr Blaney responded to say there were two other candidates out on the canvass with him as well, Mr Martin said all the European candidates are with local election candidates.

Cynthia Ni Mhurchu, a Fianna Fail MEP candidate for Ireland South, interjected to say: Correct, I canvassed with you with other local candidates.

Mr Martin added: Theres huge support going to all candidates from the party. There is significant support going to all candidates.

When Mr Blaney was asked whether he would run as an independent candidate in another election, he said: My family name is in politics 98 years this year.

I come from a very strong republican [family], my grandfather is actually a founding member of this party. Im very proud of this party, very proud of the people I represent.

So I come here today not as Niall Blaney, but as the people I represent and their voice and their frustration.

And yes, apologies if I sound frustrated today, but that is as it is. But one thing for sure  Im a strong republican Fianna Fail advocate.
A garda has been sent forward for trial charged with perverting the course of justice, burglary and false imprisonment of a woman in Dublin.

Colum Ryan (35), with a Co Meath address, appeared at Dublin District Court on Friday and faces five charges for alleged offences in 2021.

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He is one of four officers before the courts arising from an investigation conducted by the Garda Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU).

Mr Ryan is accused of creating and printing a search warrant and information on September 30th to pervert the course of public justice after a search on September 7th at a basement flat in Mountjoy Square, Dublin 1.

It is also alleged that between September 30th and December 8th, he procured the signatures of peace commissioner Steven Wrenn and another named man on the warrant.

Mr Ryan is also charged with burglary of the basement flat on September 7th, and on the same date he detained a woman against her will at St John's Road West, Dublin 8.

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ACU Detective Sergeant Kieran Kilcoyne served the defendant with a book of evidence when he appeared at Dublin District Court on Friday.

Judge Michael Ramsey noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions directed trial on indictment and granted a return-for-trial order. He told the defendant that he was being sent forward to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where the case will be listed on June 20 for mention.

The accused nodded to indicate he understood when given the formal warning to notify the prosecution if he intended to use an alibi in his defence.

Mr Ryan has yet to indicate a plea and "made no reply" when charged.

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His solicitor, Elizabeth Hughes, said her client was applying for legal aid, and she asked that it include senior counsel for the defence "given the serious nature of the charge".

Judge Ramsey acceded to the request and remanded him on 200 bail.

Last week, three Dublin-based gardai were sent forward for trial on related charges.

Robert Gorman (43), who has a north Dublin address; Mark Duffy (39), from Dublin 15; and Ciaran Whelan (51), with an address in Nenagh, Co Tipperary, are accused of perverting the course of justice and burglary of flats.

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Mr Whelan had an additional charge for false imprisonment of a woman.

ACU detectives served them with books of evidence on May 17th, and trial orders were granted. Their cases are to be listed for mention on June 13th in the Circuit Court. They were granted legal aid and remanded on bail.

A peace commissioner and former Labour Party councillor has also been charged with perverting the course of justice and forgery.

Steven Wrenn (50), of Iveragh Road, Whitehall, Dublin, is accused of signing two false search warrants for flats at Mountjoy Square, Dublin 1 and Kenilworth Road, in 2021.

He has pleaded not guilty and is due back in court in June to be served with a book of evidence and for a trial order.
Weighted, molded chairs in a group therapy room at the new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor A movement therapy room in the new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor The lobby of a new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor A one-on-one therapy room in the new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor Weighted, molded chairs can be found throughout a new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor An art therapy room in the new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor A family therapy room where family members can meet with doctors in a new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor A one-on-one therapy room in the new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor Specially designed handles in a new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor The lobby of a new Texas Childrens Hospital Intensive Outpatient Program facility designed for youth located in Bellaire on Monday, May 20, 2024, in Houston. The location will serve children and teens who need intensive treatment but don't need to be admitted to a hospital. Annie Mulligan/Contributor

Texas Children's Hospital is bolstering behavioral health programs for children and teens to combat a pediatric mental health crisis that has persisted in Houston and across the United States.

The hospital is preparing to open an Intensive Outpatient Program this summer above its Specialty Care clinic in Bellaire. The program is a scaled-up version of one that Texas Children's opened in March at its hospital in The Woodlands.

The opening marks the latest expansion of behavioral health services for Texas Childrens, which has been working to address a pediatric mental health crisis that has seen emergency department visits for anxiety, depression and thoughts of suicide rise. The numbers began rising prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that crisis exacerbated mental health challenges among children and teens, experts said.

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Texas Children's has seen a 740% increase in behavioral health visits to its emergency centers over the past five years, rising from 618 such encounters in 2018 to 5,182 in 2023, according to data from the health system. Some of the largest increases have been among children experiencing thoughts of suicide, said Dr. Karin Price, the chief of psychology for Texas Children's.

No matter how many beds we build, no matter how many programs we open  it hasnt been enough yet, Price said. I think thats why, as a system, we are trying to be very thoughtful and strategic about where in the community were providing services.

READ MORE: Mental health experts give parents tips for tackling tough conversations with kids

The energy company Ovintiv, which is based in Denver but has offices in The Woodlands, donated $4.8 million to fund the first IOP. The Bellaire program is funded through several smaller donations, Texas Children's said.

The IOP is designed to be something of an intermediate option for patients 12 to 17 years old who need more support than a once-a-week visit with a therapist but do not need to be admitted to a hospital. It can also serve as step-down care for patients after they are discharged.

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Patients in the IOP receive treatment three or four times per week for about four to six weeks. Each session lasts up to four or five hours and can include individual, group and family therapy; art and music therapy; and yoga and recreational therapy, said Dan DiPrisco, an executive vice president at Texas Childrens who oversees behavioral health services.

The patients can remain in school while receiving treatment, minimizing the disruption to their daily lives, DiPrisco said.

The IOPs are just one piece of a multifaceted approach to mental health that Texas Childrens has taken since it formed a behavioral health task force in 2022.

The health system is also working to add a behavioral health therapist to all 70 of its Texas Childrens Pediatrics clinics in the Houston and Austin areas; DiPrisco said roughly 40% currently have therapists now.

The goal is to immediately connect a child with a therapist instead of scheduling an appointment later. Getting children the help they need as soon as possible is critical to addressing mental health challenges, DiPrisco said.

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READ MORE: Social media is ubiquitous among teens, but experts say it might pose risks to their mental health

The immediacy of availability of resources is a huge component of this, he said. Otherwise, it wouldnt be nearly as successful.

The need for more services

The alarming trends around pediatric mental health have also been seen across Texas and the nation.

The Texas Youth Risk Behavior Survey  a federally funded survey given to high school students  found that 44.6% of participants in Texas felt sad or hopeless for two weeks or more in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available.

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More than one out of five participants or 21.7% reported suicidal thoughts. And an alarming 12.3% of participants reported they attempted suicide, with 3.5% reporting they needed medical attention as a result.

The results in Texas were comparable to those seen across the U.S.

Experts have attributed the increases to a confluence of factors. They include academic, family or social pressures; discrimination; bullying; and the influence of social media. The U.S. surgeon general warned last year that social media could be harmful to the mental health and well-being of children and teens.

The isolation and anxiety many children experienced during the pandemic exacerbated the problem, Price said.

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I think a lot of the social pressures were already building, she said. And then with the pandemic, we really took away a lot of the face-to-face contact between young people, and we took away their contact in settings where they were being supervised by adults who were looking out for them.

The challenges have continued to persist in the wake of the pandemic. The Texas Youth Depression and Suicide Research Network has surveyed more than 1,800 children and teens since 2020, when it was established by the Texas legislature to study the issue. Nearly 68% of participants reported moderate to severe depression, while nearly 60% reported moderate to severe anxiety.

This is a very common problem. Its not rare, said Dr. Madhukar H. Trivedi, a psychiatrist at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and scientific lead of the TX-YDSRN. I think we have to educate ourselves and our community to say this is a problem and then identify and treat it.

Hospitals arent the only settings that will need to step up to help alleviate the crisis, Trivedi said. He believes that pediatricians and even schools could be screening for depression and anxiety.

Its also important for parents to recognize the warning signs that their child may be struggling. If a child shows a change in behavior  such as spending more time alone in their bedroom or starting hanging out with an entirely new set of friends  parents should talk to them to make sure theyre OK, Trivedi said.

Ignoring those signs could make the problem more difficult to deal with later, he said.

The most dangerous words in my understanding of the English language are Oh, shes just a teenager, Trivedi said. That puts a stake in my heart.

Meeting the challenge

The need for more services is particularly acute in Texas, which ranked last in the U.S. for access to mental health care in a 2023 analysis by the nonprofit Mental Health America.

Texas Childrens has sought to expand its services by improving two key areas: access to care and a greater variety of treatment options.

Until recently, a visit to the emergency room was the primary way for Texas Childrens patients to be connected to mental health care. The goal of the IOPS and the therapists at Texas Childrens Pediatrics clinics is to provide more entry points, DiPrisco said.

Access is critical so children can get the treatment they need before a problem intensifies, Price said. Connecting them to a therapist or an IOP could help them avoid a visit to the emergency room later, she said.

If were not starting early  if were not starting with screening kids that are coming into their pediatrician or their well-child visits to see if theyre experiencing mental health concerns  then were just going to continue to be behind the crisis, Price said.

The new services have also allowed Texas Childrens to offer a variety of treatment options beyond one-on-one therapy or hospital admission.

If a visit to Texas Childrens Pediatrics reveals that a child is experiencing a mental health challenge, the child could have six to eight visits with a behavioral health therapist. Those visits may resolve the issue or help determine whether the child needs ongoing treatment, Price said.

The IOPs are designed for patients struggling at home, in school or in social settings who need support multiple times per week. They may be experiencing severe mood problems, having suicidal thoughts or exhibiting self-destructive behavior such as cutting, Price said.

DiPrisco said Texas Childrens is focused on running toward the problem.

The IOPs in The Woodlands and Bellaire could soon be joined by others in the Houston area. The health system has also explored the idea of a hub-and-spoke model of behavioral health care, with an inpatient facility at the center of its operations and the IOPs and Texas Childrens Pediatrics clinics offering less intensive levels of treatment.
Israels reprimand of Irelands ambassador was totally unacceptable, Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said.

He made the remarks after Ambassador Sonya McGuinness was summoned to the Israeli foreign affairs ministry and reprimanded over Irelands decision to recognise the State of Palestine.

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As proceedings started, Ms McGuinness was shown footage of Hamas that Israel claimed was filmed on October 7th.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: I find that totally unacceptable and no way to treat diplomats, and is outside the norm by which diplomats are treated in any country.

On Wednesday, Ireland announced its recognition of the State of Palestine in a joint move with Norway and Spain.

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The decision is to formally take effect in the three countries on Tuesday.

In response, Israel warned there would be severe consequences.

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The Israeli foreign affairs minister, Israel Katz, claimed Ireland and Taoiseach Simon Harris had rewarded terrorism.

He said the Irish, Norwegian and Spanish ambassadors would be shown the footage as part of a severe demarche.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: Diplomatic channels are very important in terms of maintaining contact with people explaining governments respective positions.

Sonya McGuinness is an outstanding ambassador and we have consistently condemned the Hamas attack on October 7th.

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Israeli media outlets were also filming the meeting, Mr Martin said.

He added that officials had anticipated that Ms McGuinness would be called to the foreign ministry but said showing her the footage in front of Israeli national media was something they had not witnessed before in other countries or jurisdictions.

Mr Martin added: Most people would accept internationally that thats not within the parameters of acceptable norms in terms of how people engage with diplomats.

I will communicate directly to, in writing if necessary, to the Israeli foreign minister because our speeches on recognition of Palestine were balanced.

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In terms of my own contribution, it was very clear in terms of our rejection of any mono-ethnic approach to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Since Wednesday, Israeli officials have repeatedly criticised Irelands decision to recognise Palestinian statehood.

Mr Katz accused the Irish government of awarding a gold medal to Hamas.

Ireland, if your goal was to reward terrorism by declaring support for a Palestinian state, youve achieved it.@SimonHarrisTD, Hamas thanks you for your service. pic.twitter.com/mgz7ZGtnCi    Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) May 23, 2024

Mr Harris rejected the characterisation of the move and accused Israel of misrepresenting the views of Ireland.

On Thursday, he said: Any foreign ministry can call in any ambassador but what I will not tolerate is any country misrepresenting the position of the Irish people.

I am the leader of the Irish Government, I speak on behalf of Ireland, and we have been clear and unequivocal that we condemn Hamas, that we condemn the most horrific, barbaric massacre that Israel experienced on the seventh of October.

We call for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages.

But it is entirely possible to say what I have just said and also say the next bit  which sadly some refuse to say  that what is happening in Palestine, what is happening in Gaza, is a humanitarian catastrophe.
Two men have been arrested and charged in relation to a break-in at a building in Tallaght which was due to host asylum seekers.

Gardai have charged the two men who were arrested following a break-in at a vacant premises on the High Street in Tallaght, Dublin 24, in the early hours of Thursday.

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They appeared before the Criminal Courts of Justice (Court 2) on Thursday evening.
The top United Nations court has ordered Israel to halt its military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Israel insists it has the right to defend itself from Hamas militants and is unlikely to comply with the ruling.

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The order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) further ratchets up international pressure on an increasingly isolated Israel to rein in its war on Hamas in Gaza.

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Fridays decision marked the third time this year the 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders seeking to reduce the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza.

While orders are legally binding, the court has no police to enforce them.

Criticism of Israels conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing  even from its closest ally, the United States, which warned against an invasion of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought shelter from fighting elsewhere.

This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognise a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with Hamas officials.

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Israel legal team, with Yaron Wax, Malcolm Shaw and Avigail Frisch Ben Avraham (AP)

Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu is also under heavy pressure at home to end the war, which was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people, most civilians, and taking some 250 captive.

Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing that time is running out.

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While the ruling by the ICJ is a blow to Israels international standing, the court does not have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Israel signalled it, too, would brush off an ICJ order to stop its operations.

Immediately after the ruling, Mr Netanyahu announced he would hold a special ministerial meeting to decide how to respond. Yair Lapid, the leader of the opposition, derided the decision.

The fact that the ICJ did not even directly connect the end of the military operation in Rafah to the release of the hostages and to Israels right to defend itself against terror is an abject moral failure, he said.

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No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, Avi Hyman, the government spokesperson, said in a press briefing on Thursday.

The courts president, Nawaf Salam, read out the ruling, as a small group of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside.

Fears expressed earlier with respect to the developments in Rafah have materialised and that the humanitarian situation is now to be characterised as disastrous, the ruling said.

The court did not call for a full ceasefire throughout Gaza as South Africa had requested at hearings last week.

Presiding Judge Nawaf Salam ask the parties to be seated before he starts reading the ruling (AP)

The ceasefire request is part of a case filed late last year by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations.

The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

South Africas foreign minister, Naledi Pandor, said the countrys allegation that a genocide is under way is getting stronger and stronger by the day.

We are really pleased that the court has given very serious consideration to the matters that we put before it and has affirmed that an urgent decision is needed from the court to pause this onslaught against innocent Palestinian people, she told South African state broadcaster SABC, adding that it is now up to the UN Security Council to determine how to protect the Palestinians.

The court has already found that Israels military operations pose a real and imminent risk to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Israels offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. The operation has obliterated entire areas, hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes, and pushed parts of the territory into famine.

This may well be the last chance for the court to act, Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh, who is part of South Africas legal team, told judges last week.

Israel rejects the claims by South Africa, a nation with historic ties to the Palestinian people.

Israel takes extraordinary measures in order to minimize the harm to civilians in Gaza, Tamar Kaplan-Tourgeman, a member of Israels legal team, told the court last week.

The bodies of Michel Nisenbaum, 59, Hanan Yablonka, 42, and Orion Hernandez Radoux, 30, were recovered ((Hostages Families Forum Headquarters via AP)

In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it can to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive.

In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

Balkees Jarrah, associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, said the courts order underlines the gravity of the situation facing Palestinians in Gaza, who have for months endured the blocking of basic services and humanitarian aid amid continued fighting.

The ICJs decision opens up the possibility for relief, but only if governments use their leverage, including through arms embargoes and targeted sanctions, to press Israel to urgently enforce the courts measures, Ms Jarrah said.

Earlier on Friday, the Israeli army said the bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7th have been recovered overnight from Gaza.

Military officials said the bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez have been identified and their families have been informed.

The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

The ICJ rules in disputes between nations. A few kilometres away, the International Criminal Court files charges against individuals it considers most responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

On Monday, its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, said he has asked ICC judges to approve arrest warrants for Mr Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and three top Hamas leaders  Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh  of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip and Israel.

Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu (Abir Sultan/Pool Photo via AP)

Israel is not an ICC member, so even if the arrest warrants are issued, Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution. But the threat of arrest could make it difficult for the Israeli leaders to travel abroad.

Also on Friday, the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution that strongly condemns attacks on humanitarian workers and UN personnel, and demands that all combatants protect them in accordance with international law.

The vote was 14-0 with Russia abstaining.

The Swiss-sponsored resolution expresses grave concern at the growing number of attacks and threats against UN and humanitarian personnel along with the continuing disregard and violations of international humanitarian law by combatants.

The draft resolution did not single out any conflict, but it was voted on as battles rage in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and many other hotspots around the world.

It is the seven-month war in Gaza, however, that has seen the greatest number of attacks on UN and humanitarian personnel. More than 190 UN staff have been killed, a death toll unprecedented in the United Nations nearly 80-year history, according to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

The war has also seen the killing of other humanitarian personnel, including seven World Central Kitchen workers who died in an Israeli airstrike last month.

Hundreds of Palestinians participated in an Islamist march in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah on Friday, calling on Muslim nations to militarily intervene to end the war in Gaza.

Demonstrators carried banners demanding action to liberate the Palestinian territories.

This is a call to the Islamic nation to take action. It has the power, capability, and military forces necessary, said Youssef Abu Zir, a member of the media team of the Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir which organised the protest.

It came as Israels military announced on Friday that it killed what it described as a Hamas deputy commander in Gaza.

The military said Diaa al-Din al-Sharafa was killed in a strike a day earlier, and had been responsible for overseeing the forces that secured the Gaza Strips borders.

Al-Sharafa was the deputy commander of the polices National Security department, the civilian police force operated by the Hamas-run Interior Ministry. He was not a commander of the Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas.
A group of children from Cork and Clare have gone viral with their song 'The Spark', which some have labelled the song of the summer.

The song was released on May 16th in anticipation of Europes national free day of creativity for young people, Cruinniu na nOg (Gathering of Youth).

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The initiative from Creative Ireland, supported by RTE, includes events for children and young people around the country.

Since the song's release, it has amassed 8.8 million views on X and has been liked 26,000 times.

 I searched for my spark and I found it 



Cruinniu na nOg, Europes only national free day of creativity for young people is back, with over 1,000 free activities, taking place on Saturday, June 15. #CruinniuNaNog - an initiative of @creativeirl, supported by @rte pic.twitter.com/jTejJdfeIF  RTE (@rte) May 16, 2024 Advertisement

A group of over 30 children appear in the music video who are from Knocknaheeny, North Cork, as well as children living in refugee accommodation in Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare.

They joined forces to create the song with the help of youth rap project Rhyme Island at Kabin Studio in Cork. The song was produced by Garry McCarthy (GMCBeats).

The song has even gained the attention of international audiences, with the BBC and The Guardian covering the story.

People online have praised the song's "youthful optimism and energy", with many calling for the song to be released on music streaming platforms.

Garry McCarthy, creative director of the Kabin Studio, told BBC Radio 4: "It's amazing to see the recognition that it's getting internationally, just for something really positive.

"I think it's the reaction from adults which is amazing. They're looking at this and they're like, this is just pure fun."
Russian president Vladimir Putin visited his Belarusian counterpart and close ally for talks on Friday in Minsk, after which he questioned whether Volodymyr Zelenskiy has the legitimacy to negotiate on Ukraines behalf.

Russia is willing to hold talks about the war in Ukraine, Mr Putin said, but Mr Zelenskiys five-year term in office was supposed to end on May 20th.

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However, Mr Zelenskiy has ruled out holding new presidential elections while his country is at war  something Mr Putin apparently ignored in remarks to reporters.

Ukrainian legislation bans elections during martial law that has been in place since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. The country would have to amend the law to elections during a state of war.

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Russian officials have repeatedly called attention to the question of Mr Zelenskiys term in office during the past week.

Of course, we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has ended, Mr Putin said at a news conference in Minsk after talks with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

We must be completely sure that we are dealing with legitimate authorities, said Mr Putin, who has repeatedly stated that Russia is ready for talks with Ukraine.

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However, Mr Zelenskiy has rejected the preconditions that Russia has put forth for talks, including allowing Russia to retain the territory Kremlins forces have taken since the February 2022 invasion.

An international peace conference on Ukraine is to be held in Switzerland in June, but Russia has not been not invited and Mr Putin has dismissed the conferences importance.

Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko walk after their talks at the Palace of Independence in Minsk (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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The two-day visit to Belarus was one of several foreign tours Mr Putin used to kick off his fifth term in office. Since his May 7th inauguration, he has also gone to China and is expected in Uzbekistan on Sunday.

Russia and Belarus have increasingly close relations and foresee eventually forming a so-called union state.

Mr Lukashenko has given Moscow permission to deploy Russian tactical nuclear weapons and troops to in Belarus, which shares a 1,084-km (673-mile) border with Ukraine. In 2023, Russia moved some of its tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus.

Unlike nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles that can destroy entire cities, tactical nuclear weapons intended for use against troops on the battlefield are less powerful. Such weapons include aerial bombs, warheads for short-range missiles and artillery munitions.

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Deploying tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus would allow Russian aircraft and missiles to reach potential targets in Ukraine more easily and quickly if Moscow decides to use them. It also extends Russias capability to target several Nato allies in Eastern and Central Europe.

Russia has also used Belarus, which depends on Russian loans and cheap energy, as a staging ground in the war in Ukraine, deploying some of its troops there.

The two countries kicked off military drills involving tactical nuclear weapons earlier this month.

Moscow said its drills, announced publicly for the first time on May 6th, were a response to statements by Western officials signalling possibly deeper involvement in the war in Ukraine. The drills began this week.

Belarus launched its manoeuvres involving missiles and warplanes capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons on May 7th.
A British woman and three children linked to the militant so-called Islamic State group in Syria were handed over to a UK delegation that visited the region this week, Syrian Kurdish-led authorities said on Friday.

The handover, which took place on Wednesday, is the latest in a push to repatriate people from al-Hol and Roj camps in northeastern Syria that house tens of thousands, mostly wives and children of Islamic State (IS) militants but also supporters of the extremist group.

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The Kurdish authorities did not release the names of the four, saying only they were held at Roj camp before the handover.

According to a statement, a delegation led by Britains special representative for Syria, Ann Snow, visited northeastern Syria, where they discussed with the Kurdish authorities the ongoing threat that IS still poses, five years after the extremists lost the last sliver of land they once controlled in large parts of Iraq and Syria.

Elham Ahmad, the co-chair for foreign relations in the regional Syrian Kurdish administration, said radical solutions should be found for the problem of terrorism.

Thousands of IS members and suspects held in jails in northeast Syria should face justice, she added.

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In 2014, IS declared a caliphate in large parts of Iraq and Syria and attracted tens of thousands of supporters from around the world. The extremists were defeated by a US-led coalition in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019.

Tens of thousands of people linked to the group were taken to al-Hol camp, close to the Iraqi border.

Over the past five years about 30,000 people, mostly Iraqis and Syrians, have left al-Hol camp and been repatriated. More than 2,000 are also held in Roj camp.

Earlier this month, the United States said it repatriated 11 of its citizens from al-Hol and Roj camps, the largest group to date that Washington has taken out of the two sprawling camps.

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Earlier in May, more than 200 Syrians were taken from al-Hol to their hometowns in Syrias eastern province that borders Iraq.
Child serial killer Lucy Letby has lost her UK Court of Appeal bid to challenge her convictions.

At a two-and-a-half day hearing last month, Letbys lawyers asked senior judges for approval to bring an appeal against her convictions for the murders of seven babies and the attempted murders of six others.

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At a short hearing on Friday, Dame Victoria Sharp, sitting with Lord Justice Holroyde, said they had refused Letbys request.

Dame Victoria said: Having heard her application, we have decided to refuse leave to appeal on all grounds and refuse all associated applications.

A full judgment will be handed down in due course.

As the judges have declined to give the go-ahead for the challenge, this ruling marks the end of the appeal process for Letby.

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The full reasons for the judges decision were not made public, with the full details of Letbys appeal bid also unable to be published for legal reasons.

Letbys case was heard at the Court of Appeal at the Royal Courts of Justice in central London (Nick Ansell/PA)

Dame Victoria previously said it could be reported that her appeal was argued on four points related to the judge at her trial refusing legal applications.

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Lawyers for the former nurse, 34, were renewing efforts to bring an appeal before the panel of three judges.

In August 2023, Letby, of Hereford, was convicted of the murders and attempted murders of the babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital between 2015 and 2016.

The jury in Letbys trial at Manchester Crown Court was unable to reach verdicts on six counts of attempted murder in relation to five children.

She will face a retrial at the same court in June on a single count that she attempted to murder a baby girl, known as Child K, in February 2016.

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A court order prohibits reporting of the identities of the surviving and dead children who were the subject of the allegations.
Taiwan has tracked dozens of Chinese warplanes and navy vessels off its coast on Friday.

This is the second day of a large military exercise launched by Beijing to show its anger over the self-governing islands inauguration of new leaders who refuse to accept its insistence that Taiwan is part of China.

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China has issued elaborate media statements showing Taiwan being surrounded by forces from its military, the Peoples Liberation Army.

A new video showed animated Chinese forces approaching from all sides and Taiwan being enclosed within a circular target area while simulated missiles hit key population and military targets.

Despite that, there was little sign of concern among Taiwans 23 million people, who have lived under threat of Chinese invasion since the two sides split during a civil war in 1949.

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Soldiers are assembled in front of the Taiwan national flag in Taoyuan, Northern Taiwan (AP)

Taiwans parliament was mired in a dispute between political parties over procedural measures, and business continued as usual in the bustling capital of Taipei and the ports of Keelong and Kaohsiung.

The defence ministry said it tracked 49 Chinese warplanes and 19 navy vessels, as well as coast guard vessels, and that 35 of the planes flew across the median line in the Taiwan Strait, the de facto boundary between the two sides, over a 24-hour period from Thursday into Friday.

Taiwanese marine and coast guard vessels along with air and ground-based missile units have been put on alert, particularly around the Taiwan-controlled island chains of Kinmen and Matsu just off Chinas coast and far from Taiwans main island.

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On Thursday, Taiwans new president, Lai Ching-te, said at a marine base in Taoyuan, just south of the capital, Taipei: Facing external challenges and threats, we will continue to maintain the values of freedom and democracy.

Taiwan president Lai Ching-te spoke to military personnel on Thursday (AP)

In his inauguration speech on Monday, Mr Lai urged Beijing to stop its military intimidation and said Taiwan was a sovereign independent nation in which sovereignty lies in the hands of the people.

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Chinas military said its expanded exercises around Taiwan were punishment for separatist forces seeking independence.

It sends navy ships and warplanes into the Taiwan Strait and other areas around the island almost daily to wear down Taiwans defences and seek to intimidate its people, who firmly back their de facto independence.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said officials are following Chinas drills closely.

He said: We urge the relevant parties to refrain from acts that could escalate tensions in the region.

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The Pentagon said the United States was monitoring very closely the joint Chinese drills. It said Beijings actions are reckless, risk escalation, and erode longstanding norms that have maintained regional peace and stability for decades.

We strongly urge Beijing to act with restraint, it said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin, at a daily briefing on Friday, dismissed US calls for China to exercise restraint in relation to the latest drills, saying the US is in no position to make such irresponsible remarks.

Washington is legally bound to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and considers all threats to the island a matter of grave concern.

The US has been aiding in the upgrading of Taiwans equipment and training, even while its official policy remains ambiguous on whether American troops and those of regional allies would be dispatched to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack.

Chinas exercises come on the heels of combined drills by the US and its Dutch Nato ally in the disputed South China Sea, a crucial waterway for global trade, fisheries and energy resources which China claims virtually in its entirety.

China routinely objects to activities in the region by foreign military forces it accuses of acting without mandate outside their home regions. China has particularly pressed its claims against the Philippines.

The Philippines Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro on Friday criticised Beijings increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea, without citing China by name. He spoke at a military ceremony marking the anniversary of the founding of the Philippine navy.

The Philippines, he said, would not tolerate aggression and provocative moves.

Since territorial hostilities with China surged last year in the South China Sea, Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jrs administration has taken steps to forge new security alliances with a number of Asian and Western countries and allowed a US military presence in more Philippine bases under a 2014 defence pact.
Former US president Donald Trump has campaigned in one of the most Democratic counties in the nation by holding a rally in the South Bronx.

Mr Trump addressed supporters in Crotona Park, days before a Manhattan jury begins deliberations on whether to convict him of felony charges in his criminal hush money trial.

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The area is among the citys most diverse and Mr Trump cast himself as a better president for black and Hispanic voters than Joe Biden as he railed against his rivals immigration policies.

Supporters of Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump gather during a campaign rally in the Bronx borough of New York (Yuki Iwamura/AP)

He insisted the biggest negative impact of the influx of migrants in New York is against our black population and our Hispanic population who are losing their jobs, losing their housing, losing everything they can lose. Theyre the ones that are affected most by whats happening.

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The former president opened his rally with an ode to his home town, talking about its humble beginnings as a small Dutch trading post before becoming a glamorous capital of culture that inspired the entire world.

While Mr Trump established residency in Florida in 2019, he reminisced on Thursday about his efforts to revitalise Central Parks Wollman Rink and people he knew in the real estate business.

Everyone wanted to be here, he said. But sadly, this is now a city in decline.

If a New Yorker cant save this country, no one can.

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Donald Trump arrives at the campaign rally in the South Bronx (Yuki Iwamura/AP)

The Bronx Democratic Party protested Mr Trumps appearance with members of multiple unions wholding signs that said The Bronx says no to Trump in English and Spanish.

We are used to elected officials, government officials, and opportunists of all kinds who come to our community and use our painful history, said Democratic State Representative Amanda Septimo, who represents the South Bronx.

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They talk about the Bronx and everything thats wrong with it, but they never get to the part that talks about what theyre going to do for the Bronx, and we know that Trump is never going to get to that part in his speech.

Mr Trumps campaign believes he can chip away at Mr Bidens support among black and Hispanic voters and he has argued the indictments he faces in New York and elsewhere make him relatable to black voters frustrated by the criminal justice system, a statement that was harshly criticised by Mr Bidens allies.

President Joe Biden (Alex Brandon/AP)

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Mr Bidens campaign on Thursday released two ads aimed at undercutting Mr Trumps attempts to make inroads with black voters, highlighting his propagation of the birther conspiracy against former president Barack Obama and his calls for the death penalty for five men wrongly convicted of rape in the 1989 Central Park Five case.

The rally comes during a pause in Mr Trumps criminal hush money trial which will resume following the Memorial Day weekend with closing arguments.

The jury will then decide whether Mr Trump will become the first former president in the nations history to be criminally convicted and whether he will be the first major party presidential candidate to run as a convicted felon.

The Bronx was once the most Democratic borough in the city. Barack Obama won 91.2 per cent of the boroughs vote in 2012, the highest in the state. Mr Biden won 83.5 per cent of the borough in 2020. Mr Trump garnered only 16 per cent of the vote.

The area Mr Trump visited is overwhelmingly non-white  a departure from most of his rally locations. According to the US Census data, about 65 per cent of residents are Hispanic and 31 per cent Black. About 35 per cent live below the poverty line.
Rishi Sunak has signalled that the door is open for Boris Johnson to hit the campaign trail for the Tories.

There has been speculation that the former British prime minister, still seen by many Conservatives as a strong campaigner, might help drum up support for the party ahead of the July 4th UK general election.

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Mr Sunaks Wednesday announcement of the summer polling day fuelled questions over what role his 2019 election-winning Downing Street predecessor might play in the campaign.

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Asked whether it is time to bring back Mr Johnson, the UK prime minister said he would welcome any Conservative to come and join the campaign as he expressed pride in their time working together.

A spokesman for Mr Johnson did not comment on his plans for the campaigning period, telling the PA news agency: Boris Johnson is, as always, strongly supporting the Conservatives and encourages everybody to do the same.

Speaking in Belfast as part of his whirlwind campaign tour of the UK, Mr Sunak told broadcasters on Friday: Im very proud of the record of the Conservative Government over the last 14 years. And of course we havent got everything right and circumstances have been difficult, but theres an enormous amount to be proud of.

And when it comes to Boris he was of course the person who got Brexit done, ensured we had the fastest vaccine rollout in Europe and was the first to make sure that we provided support to Ukraine.

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And I think all Conservatives will want to join the campaign because all Conservatives are united in wanting to see a Conservative government at the next election, because its the Conservatives that have got a clear plan that were working towards.

He added: Im very proud of the work that we did together.
A new mixed-use development coming to Fulshears downtown district between Wallis Street and FM 1093 has been approved by the City Council. Juhi Varma

A new mixed-use development coming to Fulshears downtown district between Wallis Street and FM 1093 has been approved by the City Council.

Planned on 99 acres of a 126 acre tract sold to the developer by a private owner, Fulshear Junction will feature recreational areas, a 5-acre pond and 21 acres of commercial mixed-use areas including shops, offices and restaurants. The development is named for Fulshears history with locomotives and railroads.

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Developer Century Land Holdings of Texas also plans to build a single-family residential community within the property.

The development agreement and land purchase have been an ongoing process since May 2020, when the City Council changed zoning for the site.

"Working with my forward-thinking seller clients, city of Fulshear staff and buyers to help mold the future of this property has been rewarding," said Tajana Surlan, real estate broker for the sale. "Over the last three years, my team has tirelessly collaborated with city staff, planners, engineers, and other professionals to shape Fulshear Junction into a project that works for all involved. The interest we have garnered by networking, marketing and showcasing the property has been nothing short of stellar."

Mayor Aaron Goff said the city is working closely with Century Land Holdings on the details of Fulshear Junction. The 5-acre pond will be used for flood retention, along with recreational use for visitors, benefitting downtown Fulshear.

The journey continues for Fulshear Junction with drainage and traffic analysis, among other things, before we see any vertical construction, but a development agreement marks a big step for their project, City Manager Zach Goodlander said. I look forward to seeing the needed commercial development and hopefully its positive effects on the rest of downtown.

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Fulshear Junction does not currently have start date for construction or opening date.
Egypt says it has agreed to send humanitarian aid trucks and fuel through Israels Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza for the United Nations, after a call between President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi and US President Joe Biden.

The agreement aims to reverse a dramatic drop in UN aid entering the Gaza Strip since Israel launched its offensive on the southern Gaza city of Rafah on May 6.

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Whether it will do so remains unclear, as UN officials say they are largely unable to reach the Kerem Shalom crossing to pick up the aid that enters, because fighting in the area makes it too dangerous.

Egypt had halted co-operation with Israel on entry of aid into Gaza after Israeli troops seized the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt during its offensive.

Egypt says Palestinian officials must be put back in charge of the Rafah crossing. Most humanitarian aid for Gaza comes from Egypt, and most of that was previously flowing on trucks through Rafah.

In a statement on Friday, Mr el-Sissis office said he had spoken by phone with Mr Biden and agreed to temporarily send trucks carrying humanitarian aid and fuel for the United Nations to the Kerem Shalom crossing. It said the Rafah crossing would not be reactivated until a legal framework is found.

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The White House has become increasingly frustrated with Egypt over the aid issue and US officials have conveyed to Egypt that more aid should be flowing through Kerem Shalom, according to a senior administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.

The UN, however, has said it can rarely reach Kerem Shalom to pick up the entering aid because of the untenable security situation. Commercial trucks have continued to flow through the crossing, bringing food and other supplies for sale in Gaza markets.
UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and UK prime minister Rishi Sunak clashed on energy policy and the exodus of MPs announcing their departure from parliament grew as campaigning for the UK's July 4th General Election entered its second day.

Here are the key moments:

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Power moves

Mr Sunak touted the fall in the energy price cap announced by the UK's energy watchdog Ofgem on Friday as evidence that his economic plans are working, though Labour said that even with a year-on-year decrease it will still be up 400 on 2021.

Meanwhile, Mr Starmer plugged his plans for a publicly owned Great British Energy company, promising it would bring bills down for good and invest in clean, British power.

The Conservatives said they would maintain the Ofgem cap to keep bills down and make price comparison services easier to use. They also said they would reach net zero without punishing families with extra costs.

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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer speaking to the media at the launch of Scottish Labours General Election campaign at City Facilities in Glasgow (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Sunaks spark faded by vapes Bill going up in smoke

Mr Sunak said he was disappointed that his flagship legislation banning young people from ever being able to legally smoke would not pass before parliament shuts down on Friday.

The shelving of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, as well as his admission that deportation flights to Rwanda would not take off before polling day, leaves the Tory leaders legacy increasingly threadbare.

Critics were quick to note that he has only one person to blame for cutting short the parliamentary timetable by calling a summer election.

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Islington North headache for Labour

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn will stand in his long-held seat of Islington North (Victoria Jones/PA)

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn announced he is standing as an Independent candidate in the General Election, posing a threat to his old partys prospects in his long-held Islington North seat.

The veteran MP was promptly booted out of the Labour Party. Mr Starmer defended his decision to block his predecessor from standing for Labour after he failed to apologise for his handling of antisemitism within the party.

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Sunaks visit to the Titanic Quarter invites sinking ship comparisons

Mr Sunaks trip to Belfasts Titanic Quarter saw some unfortunate parallels drawn with his partys fortunes.

The Tory leader insisted he is pumped up and enjoying himself on campaign day two when a Belfast Live reporter asked him: Are you captaining a sinking ship going into this election?

Rishi Sunak arrives at Birmingham Airport, while on the UK General Election campaign trail (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

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Picture of the day

(Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Mr Sunak talks to journalists on his plane as he travels from Northern Ireland to Birmingham.

Social media moment of the day

Not coming to a debate near you. https://t.co/Uvg1WPAyea  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) May 24, 2024

Mr Sunak encountered the dangers of online fact-checkers when he shared a claim about Mr Starmer on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Repeating his claim that Mr Starmer would be ducking TV debates during the campaign, Mr Sunak posted imagery of the Labour leader with the caption: Not coming to a debate near you.

Beneath the post appeared a Community Note  a feature that allows users to add context to potentially misleading content  which read: Starmer says he will agree to two debates. To say debates are not coming, is not correct.

MPs leave in their droves

As of Friday, nearly 80 Conservative MPs have stepped down ahead of the General Election, a post-war record.

(PA Graphics)

The total not seeking re-election on July 4th hit 76 on Friday, surpassing the previous record of 72 who quit prior to Sir Tony Blairs 1997 landslide win for Labour.

It is not entirely the Conservatives though  grandees including Harriet Harman, Dame Margaret Beckett and Sir Ben Bradshaw have all said they will not fight their seats.

Sunaks tour finale derailed by pro-Palestine crowds

The final stop of Mr Sunaks two-day tour of the UK was temporarily derailed when pro-Gaza protesters picketed the surrounding area.

A crowd of demonstrators carried placards and Palestinian flags outside the venue in Staffordshire, where the Prime Minister insisted on continuing with his visit despite the commotion.

Quote of day

Whats happening on Sunday?

Mr Starmer will be taking his campaign to the Midlands while Mr Sunak, having completed his whistlestop tour of the four nations, will be in the North of England.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey eats ice cream on the promenade in Eastbourne, East Sussex, while on the General Election campaign trail (Aaron Chown/PA)

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey will continue his trail in the so-called blue-wall, traditionally Conservative areas of southern England.
Jeremy Corbyn has been informed he is no longer a member of the Labour Party after he announced he is standing as an independent candidate in the UK general election.

The former Labour leader, who was blocked from standing again for his old party, on Friday said he will seek election in the Islington North constituency he has represented for 40 years.

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Sir Keir Starmer said his predecessors move was a matter for Jeremy, as he defended his decision to ban Mr Corbyn from standing for Labour as part of his efforts to tear antisemitism out of our party by the roots.

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Mr Corbyn has been suspended by Labour since 2020 after he refused to fully accept the Equality and Human Rights Commissions findings that the party broke equality law when he was in charge and said antisemitism had been dramatically overstated for political reasons.

Shortly after Mr Corbyn announced his intention to stand as an independent, a source told the PA news agency that he had been informed he is no longer a Labour Party member.

Mr Corbyn vowed to be an independent voice for equality, democracy and peace.

His candidacy will come as a headache for Mr Starmer just as he is kicking off his campaign to replace Rishi Sunak in Downing Street.

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Left-wing pressure group Momentum hit out at Mr Starmer for treating the people of Islington with contempt by blocking Mr Corbyn and accused him of driving out the socialist politics he represented, in favour of elite interests.

Jeremy Corbyns move will cause a headache for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Reacting to his predecessors move, Mr Starmer told Sky News: Im very clear, the first thing I said as Labour leader is that I would tear antisemitism out of our party by the roots.

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That was my first solemn promise, and I followed through on that, and that is why I took the decision that Jeremy Corbyn would not stand as a Labour candidate at this election.

Now whats happened with Jeremy standing as an independent, thats a matter for him.

We will have an excellent Labour candidate in Islington North making the same argument as we will across the country, which is its time to end 14 years of chaos and division, its time to turn the page and a fresh start and rebuild our country together.

Mr Corbyn told his local Islington Tribune newspaper that he would fight to retain a seat he has represented for 40 years, adding: We have to stand up and defend our rights.

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He appealed to lifelong Labour voters, saying that I am here to represent the people of Islington North on exactly the same principles that Ive stood by my whole life: social justice, human rights and peace.

Sir Keir Starmer served as shadow Brexit secretary under Jeremy Corbyn (Jonathan Brady/PA)

Mr Corbyn went on to say that these principles are needed now more than ever before, vowing to defend a genuine alternative to the corrupt years of this Tory government, including rent controls, public ownership of energy and water, the abolition of the two-child benefits cap, a Green New Deal, and an ethical foreign policy based on peace and human rights.

He added: When I was first elected, I made a promise to stand by my constituents no matter what. In Islington North, we keep our promises.

Labour has reduced its search to replace Mr Corbyn as a general election candidate to two people.

The former party leader has been sitting as an independent MP for Islington North since 2020 when he had the Labour whip suspended.

The party has shortlisted Sem Moema, a member of the London Assembly, and Praful Nargund, an Islington councillor.

Mr Corbyn had a majority of 26,188 in his Islington North seat at the 2019 election when running as a Labour candidate, and was first elected to Parliament in 1983.
Sir Keir Starmer has said Jeremy Corbyns days of influencing Labour are over after the former leader was expelled from the party as he announced he is standing as an Independent candidate in the UK's upcoming General Election.

The UK Labour leader, who once served in Mr Corbyns shadow cabinet, hit back at his predecessor after being accused of undermining democracy through the selection process for the Islington North constituency.

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Veteran MP Mr Corbyn was blocked from standing for his own party but will seek re-election in the seat he has represented for 40 years.

Asked for his response to suggestions that he was cherry-picking candidates including Praful Nargund, who will stand for Labour in Islington North, Mr Starmer told broadcasters: Jeremy Corbyns days of influencing Labour Party policy are well and truly over. Jeremy Corbyns decision is his decision. What Im intent on doing is putting first class Labour candidates in Islington North, which we have now done.

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Mr Starmer defended his decision to ban Mr Corbyn from standing for Labour as part of his efforts to tear antisemitism out of our party by the roots.

The MP has been sitting as an Independent since 2020 after refusing to fully accept the Equality and Human Rights Commissions findings that the party broke equality law when he was in charge.

He said allegations of antisemitism had been dramatically overstated for political reasons.

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Shortly after he announced his intention to stand, a source told the PA news agency that he had been informed he is no longer a Labour Party member.

Mr Corbyn vowed to be an independent voice for equality, democracy and peace.

His candidacy will cause a headache for the Labour leader just as he is kicking off his campaign to replace Rishi Sunak in Number 10.

Campaign group Momentum, which strongly aligns itself with Mr Corbyns politics, accused Mr Starmer of treating the people of Islington with contempt by blocking the former Labour leader and driving out the socialist politics he represented, in favour of elite interests.

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I am standing as an independent candidate for the people of Islington North.



As your MP, I will continue to be an independent voice for equality, democracy and peace.



Please join our campaign at https://t.co/dRySocs48C. Let's prove that when we come together, we can win. pic.twitter.com/rkyf5yakod  Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) May 24, 2024

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Jewish Labour former minister Dame Margaret Hodge reacted bluntly to his decision, saying she thought he abused the opportunities afforded to him by the Labour Party when he became leader.

Mr Corbyn told his local Islington Tribune newspaper that he would fight to retain a seat he has represented for 40 years, adding: We have to stand up and defend our rights.

He appealed to lifelong Labour voters, saying he was here to represent the people of Islington North on exactly the same principles that Ive stood by my whole life: social justice, human rights and peace.

Sir Keir Starmer served as shadow Brexit secretary under Jeremy Corbyn (Jonathan Brady/PA)

Mr Corbyn went on to say that these principles are needed now more than ever before, vowing to defend a genuine alternative to the corrupt years of this Tory Government. This would include rent controls, public ownership of energy and water, the abolition of the two-child benefits cap, a Green New Deal, and an ethical foreign policy based on peace and human rights.

He added: When I was first elected, I made a promise to stand by my constituents no matter what. In Islington North, we keep our promises.

Mr Corbyn, who led Labour from 2015 to 2020, has been sitting as an Independent MP for Islington North since 2020, when he had the Labour whip suspended.

The current leader has sought to distance himself from his predecessors leadership, with his mantra of running a changed Labour Party and readiness to suspend MPs if they step out of line with his zero-tolerance policy on antisemitism.

Momentum chairwoman Kate Dove said: He (Mr Corbyn) wanted to run again as the Labour candidate and the local party backed him too.

But Starmer and his Westminster clique again denied local people the chance to choose their own candidate and blocked Jeremy. Starmer has treated the people of Islington with contempt, setting the stage for a divisive and distracting election campaign.

She added that Mr Starmers attacks on Jeremy were never just about one man  they were about driving out the socialist politics he represented, in favour of elite interests.

Good riddance.



In the end, Jeremy Corbyn has been thrown out of @UKLabour not for his role in staining UK politics with antisemitism, but for standing as a candidate against the Party. This day should have come much sooner, and it should have been brought about due to his pic.twitter.com/PJv3pgtgTh  Campaign Against Antisemitism (@antisemitism) May 24, 2024

But the Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed Mr Corbyns expulsion from Labour, with a spokesperson saying: Good riddance.

The man who made the Jewish community feel so unwelcome in Labour has finally been told that he is unwelcome in the Party he once led.

On Friday afternoon, Labour announced local campaigner and Islington councillor, Mr Nargund, as its candidate to run against Mr Corbyn in Islington North.

Mr Nargund said: Its an honour to have been chosen as Labours candidate for Islington North and I look forward to the campaign ahead. I promise to be a truly local MP, that represents all families and businesses that call this special place their home.

Mr Nargund could face an uphill battle, as Mr Corbyn gained a majority of 26,188 in the seat at the 2019 election when running as a Labour candidate.

Meanwhile, another former Labour MP, Claudia Webbe, announced she will battle again for her Leicester East seat as an Independent candidate.

Ms Webbe was expelled from the Labour Party in 2021 after being convicted of harassing a love rival.
A mother who beat her three-year-old son with a bamboo cane after claiming the Bible advised the use of the rod weeks before she murdered him has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 25 years.

Christina Robinson, 30, had exposed her son Dwelaniyah to cruelty and excruciating pain over several weeks before she shook him to death at the family home in Durham in November 2022.

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Mr Justice Garnham said she was guilty of a gross abuse of trust as the victims mother.

Christina Robinson has been jailed for life for murdering her three-year-old son (Durham Police/PA)

A trial at Newcastle Crown Court heard Robinson had deliberately immersed him in scalding water, causing severe burns that left him in agony.

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She did not seek medical help as safeguarding concerns would have been obvious if a health worker saw him.

Robinson, a member of the Black Hebrew Israelite religion, admitted hitting the boy with a bamboo cane but claimed she was following a Bible scripture which advised the use of the rod for the correction of children.

The defendant, originally from Tamworth, Staffordshire, was convicted of murder and four child cruelty charges which happened at the family home in Bracken Court, Ushaw Moor, Durham, following a trial in March.
A Sydney judge has ruled that former a US Marine Corps pilot can be extradited to the United States on allegations that he illegally trained Chinese aviators, leaving the attorney general as Duggans last hope of remaining in Australia.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss ordered Boston-born Daniel Duggan (55) to remain in custody awaiting extradition.

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While his lawyers said they had no legal grounds to challenge the magistrates ruling that Duggan was eligible for extradition, they will make submissions to Attorney General Mark Dreyfus on why the pilot should not be surrendered.

The attorney will give us sufficient time, Im quite sure, to ventilate all of the issues that under the Extradition Act are not capable of being run in an Australian court, Duggans lawyer, Bernard Collaery, told reporters outside court.

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Mr Dreyfuss office said in a statement the government does not comment on extradition matters.

Duggans wife and mother of his six children, Saffrine Duggan, said the extradition court hearing was simply about ticking boxes.

Now, we respectfully ask the attorney general to take another look at this case and to bring my husband home, she told a gathering of reporters and supporters outside court.

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The pilot has spent 19 months in maximum security prison since he was arrested in 2022 at his family home in the state of New South Wales.

In a 2016 indictment from the US District Court in Washington, DC, unsealed in late 2022, prosecutors say Duggan conspired with others to provide training to Chinese military pilots in 2010 and 2012, and possibly at other times, without applying for an appropriate licence.

Prosecutors say Duggan received about nine payments totalling around 88,000 Australian dollars and international travel from another conspirator for what was sometimes described as personal development training.

Duggan served in the US Marines for 12 years before emmigrating to Australia in 2002. In January 2012, he gained Australian citizenship, choosing to give up his US citizenship in the process.

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The indictment says Duggan travelled to the United States, China and South Africa, and provided training to Chinese pilots in South Africa.

Duggan has denied the allegations, saying they were political posturing by the US, which unfairly singled him out.
Act of Congress | Rick Hoganson

Genre-bending acoustic quartet Act of Congress brings its unique blend of pop, folk, gospel and bluegrass to The Hymns That Made Us, a full-length album available at digital and streaming outlets everywhere via https://linktr.ee/actofcongress and through Centricity Musics new distribution arm, Residence Music.

This self-produced album, The Hymns That Made Us, was mixed by four-time GRAMMY Award winning Ryan Freeland (Bonnie Raitt, Ray LaMontagne) and reimagines timeless classics that invite listeners to worship with thanksgiving, confession, prayer, lament and praise.

The Hymns That Made Us is our tribute to the timeless songs that have become the soundtrack of our lives; the triumphs and tragedies. We hope you love this album! collectively exclaims the band consisting of Connie Skellie (violin, vocals), Adam Wright (mandolin, vocals), Chris Griffin (guitars) and Tim Carroll (bass).

Among the 10 hymns selected by the band members for this album is Christ the Solid Rock, which has proven especially poignant for Skellie as she teaches her kids that their identity is anchored in Jesus and not in their circumstances. Both of her sons were born with an incurable eye disease.

Carroll and his family lost their home in a catastrophic fire last year and have found comfort singing, Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. Carroll found a new depth in the beloved It Is Well after reading the story of hymn writer, Horatio Spafford, who lost everything in the Chicago fire of 1837.

I became a believer during college while studying guitar. Hymns were unfamiliar to me, but I would use those timeless melodies as practice, says Griffin, who leads worship at the nations second largest church, Church of the Highlands. Come Thou Fount, in particular, was a song I would sit on my front porch swing and play, exploring alternate chord progressions and harmonies. Along the way, the lyrics, Teach my heart to sing Thy praise, really sunk in.

The songs we're writing now and the album we just released have so much to say about who we are and what we believe, sums up Wright, who shares lead vocals with Skellie. I want people to see authenticity. I want them to feel served. I want them to find the joy we feel in this music."

The full The Hymns That Made Us track listing follows:

01) Nothing But The Blood

02) Come Thou Fount

03) It Is Well

04) How Great Thou Art

05) Christ The Solid Rock

06) Wondrous Love

07) I'll Fly Away

08) Dear Refuge

09) Turn Your Eyes

10) Amazing Grace

Dave Higgs of NPR's Bluegrass Breakdown calls Act of Congress, one of the freshest sounding, exuberant bands in all of the known acoustic universe. Based in Birmingham, AL, the group has been touring as a band for over 15 years. Releasing five full length albums and two acclaimed Christmas EPs, their songs have received Showtime and Google placements, they are consistently voted a Must See Live Act of Alabama and have been the featured artist in the state's Keep Alabama Beautiful campaign.

Performing at SXSW and the International Newgrass Festival where their full set is still in regular rotation on National Public Television, their global audience has also continued to grow after completing five tours as U.S. State Department Cultural Ambassadors in countries such as Thailand, Oman, Palau, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Philippines, Bali, Liberia and Jordan.

Playing on stages with Toby Keith, John Mayer, Sara Evans, Edwin McCain, Taylor Hicks and many others, Act of Congress are regularly invited to play with symphonies, having put together a must-see Christmas show and a "Bluejeans and Bluegrass" pops concert. They have also been featured guests on the nationally syndicated Rick & Bubba Show and Woodsongs Old Time Radio on SiriusXM.

The Hymns That Made Us is the first in a cascade of fresh music to be released this year from Act of Congress. For all the latest Act of Congress tour, music, news and more information, go to https://actofcongressmusic.com/ and https://linktr.ee/actofcongress.
A Nationals-led Senate inquiry into bank branch closures has urged the government to raise taxes on big banks and use the funds to support community bank branches, while also calling for an investigation into the formation of a new taxpayer-owned bank.

The steady decline in bank branches has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, sparking a backlash from regional communities, and political scrutiny through a long-running Senate inquiry.

Nationals Senator Matt Canavan: There now needs to be a stricter and more proactive approach to rebuild financial services in the bush. Credit: Rhett Wyman

On Friday, the inquiry  chaired by Queensland Nationals Senator Matt Canavan  delivered its final report, making recommendations that Canavan acknowledged went further than previous investigations into the always-sensitive issue of branch closures.

Labor senators on the committee expressed concerns about the suggested crackdown on branch closures, saying it could have unintended consequences.
Housing projects aimed at essential workers are gaining momentum as developers in eastern Australia expand their capacity and pipelines.

City West Housing has acquired a fourth site in inner Sydney, adding to its $850 million affordable housing pipeline. That includes 933 affordable residences across 20 buildings, most of them within the City of Sydney boundaries, housing 1600 residents and families.

The new site at 20-26 Bourke Road, Alexandria, was acquired from property developer Addenbrooke and is one of four affordable housing projects City West Housing is developing in a strategic cluster around the Green Square transport and infrastructure hub between Sydney Airport and the CBD.

City West Housing affordable developments in Waterloo a

Across the border in Melbourne, HousingFirst, a regulated, not-for-profit social housing venture, has completed a redevelopment of Oakover Road in Preston. It was part of the Public Housing Renewal Program in partnership with Homes Victoria and MAB Corporation.
J.R. Gonzales, a native Houstonian, is a web producer for HoustonChronicle.com. Before that, he was a news copy editor. Since 2006, he has overseen the Bayou City History blog, which covers various aspects of Houston's history.

Prior to joining the Houston Chronicle, Gonzales worked as a night cops reporter at The State newspaper in Columbia, S.C., and later as a copy editor. He has also worked as a courthouse reporter for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times. Gonzales is a journalism graduate of the University of Houston.
Taking out second place on this weeks runners list is Gibb River Diamonds, which enjoyed a share price hike of 160 per cent from a previous close of 2.5c to touch 6.5c on Wednesday. The stock surge coincided with the company confirming the grant of the three key mining licenses that form the heart of its Ellendale diamond project in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

Ellendale has been one of the worlds biggest diamond producers in the past and its previous production included the annual supply of more than 50 per cent of the globes Fancy Yellow diamonds, which were the subject of a special marketing agreement between the operations former operators and world-renowned jewellers Tiffany & Co.

The operation hosts a JORC-compliant resource of 5.2 million tonnes grading 1.26 carats per one hundred tonnes for a total of 66,200 contained carats of the precious gems at its Main Lights stockpile.

Gibb River hasnt shied away from being vocal about its plans to re-establish diamond mining at its Kimberley operation ever since it picked up the project from Burgundy Diamonds early last year. Since then, it has defined a JORC resource for the Lights stockpile, negotiated a mining benefits agreement with the local Bunuba people, completed a fauna and flora survey and has now locked in the three mining leases.

It proposes to mine the Ellendale Lights tailings resource by utilising a simple washing, screening and sorting plant, with the tailings being disposed of in the nearby historic E9 open pit.

Plans are in place to kick off a heritage survey in the first week of next month, in addition to defining a JORC-compliant resource for the E9 West target where high-grade and shallow alluvials have been previously sampled and partially mined.

As Shirley Bassey sang on the James Bond film of the same name  Diamonds Are Forever  and Gibb River is moving quickly in its bid to bring more of the precious gems to light. And this columnist likes shiny things, so seeing a rare appearance based on diamonds in the Runners list is a sparkling sight for sore eyes.

Coming in third this week is Sierra Nevada Gold, which ran more than 119 per cent from a previous close of 4.1c to touch 9c when it announced plans to follow up on a 1270g/t silver intercept at its Blackhawk project in the US State of Nevada.

The impressive hit was recorded within a larger mineralised zone that delivered 12m at 219g/t silver from 250m including 5m going 479g/t silver from 256m. Higher-grade intercepts include the previously mentioned 0.5m section at a peak of 1270g/t silver and 2.58g/t gold from 256.5m, 1m reading 823g/t silver and 30.1 per cent lead-zinc from 257m and a slightly deeper 1m hit grading 654g/t silver, in addition to more than 50 per cent lead-zinc from 258m.

Management says it has identified 22.5 line kilometres of veins at Blackhawk, but this known mineralisation has sat largely untouched since mining ceased in the area in the 1920s. The Blackhawk epithermal project hosts eight mining centres, with main production coming from the historic Endowment, Silver Gulch and Blackhawk mines.

Sierra Nevada has already defined several high-priority drill targets at the site, with a 20-hole drill program permitted.

Silver plays an important part in the creation of solar panels.

Silver demand for use in solar panels has soared by 330 per cent since 2014, growing from 48 million ounces to 160 million ounces in 2023. It will now be interesting to see what the companys Blackhawk project can produce when the results of its planned drill campaign are delivered.

Fourth place for todays Runners of the Week column goes to Charger Metals. Its shares jumped more than 89 per cent to touch 14c from a previous close of 7.4c after it identified positive lithium and niobium anomalies at the Mt Gordon prospect of its Lake Johnston lithium project in WA.

Results from the companys infill soil sampling program  funded by Rio Tinto Exploration as part of a farm-in agreement  defined big soil anomalies extending across more than 3 square kilometres, with a slew of assays showing figures greater than 100 parts per million lithium oxide. The new targets sit adjacent to TG Metals recently-identified Jagermeister prospect that already has four drill targets identified.

Charger also defined a 1.8km-by-1.7km niobium anomaly at Mt Gordon to the south of its tenements, with positive results of up to 21.4ppm that the company says is coincident with an underlying magnetic high.

Management says it expects to receive approvals for its planned reverse-circulation (RC) drill campaign to test the multiple anomalies, with priority targets focusing on Mt Gordon in addition to strike extensions to the known high-grade spodumene at its Medcalf prospect and a similar trend to the south-west.

Lake Johnston sits about 70km east of Covalent Lithiums Earl Grey project, sometimes known as Mt Holland, which hosts ore reserves of 189 million tonnes at 1.5 per cent lithium oxide.

More than 12 million Charger shares changed hands following the announcement of its discovery. Perhaps, it proves  with the deepest of apologies to Mark Twain  that the demise of lithium has very much been exaggerated.

Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au
New York: Documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, an Oscar nominee whose most famous works skewered Americas food industry and who notably ate only at McDonalds for a month to illustrate the dangers of a fast-food diet, has died. He was 53.

Spurlock died on Thursday (US time) in New York from complications of cancer, according to a statement issued by his family.

Morgan Spurlock, known for Super Size Me, has died at the age of 53. Credit: AP

It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother, Morgan, Craig Spurlock, who worked with him on several projects, said in the statement. Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas, and generosity. The world has lost a true creative genius and a special man. I am so proud to have worked together with him.

Spurlock made a splash in 2004 with his groundbreaking film, Super Size Me, which was nominated for an Academy Award. The film chronicled the detrimental physical and psychological effects of Spurlock eating only McDonalds food for 30 days. He gained about 11 kilograms, experienced a spike in his cholesterol and lost his sex drive.
Australias biggest individual lottery winner says he is pinching himself after claiming the $150 million Powerball jackpot, but still turned up for work.

The Adelaide man contacted official lottery provider The Lott on Friday morning to confirm his win.

The $150 million Powerball jackpot has been won by a lottery ticket bought in South Australia.

He told them he had checked his two tickets for the draw late last night, and when he scanned the second one, and it said, $150 million.

Ive never screamed so loud or jumped so high, he said today. Woohoo! Im still pinching myself. I still havent slept. Ive just kept checking the ticket.

The $150 million was the third-largest lottery prize in Australian history, behind a $200 million Powerball win shared between two people in February and a $160 million jackpot in 2022 split between three ticket holders.
Elon Musk has suffered another legal defeat in Australia after his social media company X argued it should not be subject to local anti-discrimination laws.

The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal ruled that X  formerly known as Twitter  had to answer to the states laws despite being based in America.

The Australian Muslim Advocacy Network alleged that Elon Musks X should be responsible for posts on its site vilifying Muslims because it is a publisher. Credit: AP

The Australian Muslim rights group behind the complaint hailed the ruling as precedent-setting, saying it ensured social media companies had to be held accountable for locally accessible content that breached hate speech laws.

The ruling stemmed from a complaint made by the Australian Muslim Advocacy Network, which alleged that Musks X had to be responsible for posts on its site vilifying Muslims because it was a publisher.
One of Victorias most prolific circumcision doctors has been banned from performing the procedure by Australias healthcare watchdog.

The Medical Board of Australia took the emergency measure against Melbourne doctor Hershel Goldman earlier this month, placing a series of conditions on his registration.

Dr Hershel Goldman.

The practitioner must not perform circumcisions, reads a note from the Medical Board of Australia on Dr Goldmans listing on the public register of practitioners.

Goldman, who previously told The Age he had performed 400 circumcisions a year, is appealing against the restrictions at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which heard the matter on Thursday. The tribunal reserved its decision.
Bangkok: An Adelaide woman injured aboard Singapore Airlines flight 321 has no feeling from the waist down and is one of nearly 20 patients who remain in intensive care in Thailand.

Kerry Jordan, a British national, and her Australian husband, Keith Davis, were on their way home from a United Kingdom holiday when the London to Singapore flight rapidly lost altitude over Myanmar on Tuesday night.

Keith Davis (centre) is whisked away and prevented from talking to reporters at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, on Thursday. Credit: AP

Almost half the planes 211 passengers were injured in what has become one of the most serious turbulence events in modern aviation history.

The injuries and onboard death of British man Geoffrey Kitchen prompted the pilot to make an emergency landing in Bangkok. At least nine and possibly 12 Australians remain in hospital. Several of them, including Jordan, have horrific injuries.
I congratulate all our winners. We received a record number of submissions this year, and the exceptional standard of those submissions is a sign of the passion our members have for helping their clients realise their goals.
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has expressed mixed feelings about the recently passed Stage 2 Rental Law Reforms, acknowledging that some of the proposed amendments were accepted, but believing the bill still has significant flaws.
Bob Casey United States Court House is photographed on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023 in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

More than a dozen Houston-area rideshare drivers were kidnapped and robbed last year by a group of armed men who used apps to call the drivers directly to them, according to federal prosecutors.

The alleged robbery ring  made up of a group of now-20-year-olds  was broken up by Houston police last summer, leading to dozens of charges including aggravated assault, aggravated robbery and sexual assault.

This month, a federal grand jury added even more indictments to the list.

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MORE ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Ex-Houston police officer Gerald Goines closer to trial after judge declines to quash indictments

Kenneth Kelley, Marquis Ricard, Ke Shaun Johnson, Lorenzo Jackson, Nyreon Tucker and Brian Dorsey this month were charged with a combined 24 counts of interference with commerce by robbery and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, according to a federal indictment.

All the men were already in custody in Harris County, and were arrested by U.S. Marshals this week.

An unsealed indictment accuses the men of violating federal law by using apps from California-based companies, including Uber, Lyft and Cashapp, to commit crimes in Texas. Crimes involving interstate commerce are prosecuted in federal courts.

The men are accused of arming themselves with 9 mm handguns and robbing Uber and Lyft drivers on multiple occasions between May 24, 2023, and June 20, 2023, according to the indictment.

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At least 19 rideshare drivers were robbed in the two month-period, according to a detention order signed by U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan.

All of the robberies followed a common pattern: one of the men would order a ride and when the driver arrived, two or more of the men would get in the car and threaten the driver with a gun, Bryan wrote.

The men robbed the drivers of cash, credit cards and phones, demanded passwords to money apps like CashApp or forced their victims to transfer money directly to their own accounts.

The drivers would also be forced to drive to ATMs and withdraw cash, according to the order.

One victim was forced to withdraw a total of $3,500 from various ATMs, emptying his bank account, Bryan wrote.

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In one case, a driver fought back and ended up crashing into a parked car during a struggle over a gun. In another robbery, Johnson is accused of taking control of a victims car while Kelley sexually assaulted her, Bryan wrote.

All of the men were arrested by Houston police last year, and combined have more than 30 pending felony cases against them for aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping and the sexual assault, according to court records

The men were connected to the robberies by surveillance video and cellphone, according to court records.

When Kelley was arrested by the Houston Police Department in June 2023, he was driving one of the victims cars, Bryan wrote.

The group was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8.

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Bryan and another judge ordered that five of the men be held in federal custody and declared that they would pose a serious risk to public safety if released. Ricard hadnt been ordered to be held in federal detention as of Friday afternoon. Court records indicate he was the last of the men to officially be arrested and charged.

Dorsey is the first of the group to be scheduled to go to trial in the federal system. Jury selection in his case is scheduled to begin July 22.
Total income rose to Rs 2,207.43 crore in the quarter from Rs 1,699.96 crore in the same period a year ago.

Renewable energy solutions provider Suzlon Energy on Friday reported nearly 21 per cent decline in consolidated net profit to Rs 254 crore in the March quarter mainly due to certain exceptional items.

The company reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 320 crore in the year-ago period, a BSE filing said.

Total income rose to Rs 2,207.43 crore in the quarter from Rs 1,699.96 crore in the same period a year ago.

The consolidated net profit in the 2023-24 fiscal year also declined to Rs 660 crore from Rs 2,887 crore a year earlier.

Total income in the fiscal rose to Rs 6,567.51 crore from Rs 5,990.16 crore a year ago.



The company explained that PAT (profit after tax or net profit before exceptional items) for the March quarter increased 411 per cent to Rs 281 crore on a year-on-year basis.

The cumulative orders as on May 24, 2024 are 3.3 GW. This includes the order book as on March 31, 2024 of 2,929 MW, plus orders secured subsequently of 402 MW.

"We have been able to create a solid foundation over the last FY across all business verticals of technology, manufacturing, projects, and OMS," Suzlon Group Vice Chairman Girish Tanti said in the statement.

This positions the company strongly to lead the sector in years to come, he said, adding, "We stacked up our largest ever order book of value- driven orders for more than 3.3 GW."



The board also approved forfeiture of 81,94,063 partly paid-up equity shares of the company worth Rs 2 each issued on rights basis as the first and final call money of Rs 2.50 per share has not been paid.
Shares of Finolex Cables hit a record high of Rs 1,361.95, as they zoomed 19 per cent on the BSE in Fridays intra-day trade amid heavy volumes after the company reported a healthy operational performance for the March quarter (Q4FY24). The board also recommended a dividend of 400 per cent i.e. Rs 8 per share on face value of Rs 2.

In the past three trading days, the stock of India's largest and leading manufacturer of electrical and communication cables maker has rallied 29 per cent. At 10:56 am; the stock was trading 17 per cent higher at Rs 1,337.25, as compared to 0.02 per cent rise in the S&P BSE Sensex. The average trading volumes at the counter jumped over eight-fold. A combined 4.7 million equity shares representing 3.1 per cent of total equity of Finolex Cables had changed hands on the NSE and BSE.

In Q4FY24, the companys profit before taxes grew 13 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 196.1 crore on back of volume led growth in the major segments, new product introductions as well as some pricing actions to maintain margins.

Revenue rose 15 per cent YoY to Rs 1,401 crore from Rs 1,224 crore a year ago. Profit after tax was up 9 per cent YoY to Rs 146 crore.

In volume terms, Electrical Wires increased by 15 per cent compared to Q4FY23, while Cables improved by 50 per cent. Within the Communication Cables segment, most product lines increased in volume, by an average of 14 per cent.

Volumes in new products within the fast moving electric goods (FMEG) sector all showed a healthy growth from the corresponding quarter. While all products contributed to positive margins, lighting products continued to be affected by price erosion, Finolex Cables said.

The management said the previously announced plans to set up an E-Beam facility and Preform manufacturing plant are progressing well. The first of the E-Beam equipment is currently under commissioning and is expected to be in production shortly; the second equipment is expected to arrive in the next few weeks. It is expected that market offering should start by August/September 2024. As reported earlier, Phase I of the Preform facility should be operational by Jan/Feb 2025, the management said.

The rebound in economic activity and growing infrastructure development are unfolding tremendous opportunities in the wires and cables sector. With the domestic demand improving due to revival in consumer sentiment and spending coupled with higher market penetration, the FMEG segment is set for a sustained growth trajectory, Finolex Cables had said in its FY23 annual report.

Finolex Cables mainly operates in the electrical cables and telecommunication (telecom) cables segments. Improved geographic reach in northern and eastern India, following the expansion of the Roorkee plant, should support the electrical cables business. The communication cables segment, after facing some pressure in the recent past, is likely to grow in the near to medium term, backed by healthy demand for the rollout of 5G services in the country, according to analysts.

CRISIL Ratings believes Finolex Cables will maintain its stable business risk profile over the medium term, driven by its dominant position in the electrical cables segment. Financial risk profile should also remain healthy, supported by the comfortable capital structure and sufficient cash accrual.
Parents and students protested outside Gary L. Herod Elementary School in the in the Maplewood/Meyerland West area in Southwest Houston, TX on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Parents say their principal and several teachers are being being forced out. Sharon Steinmann Brynn Cabe, 12, center, a 7th grade student at Meyerland Performing and Visual Arts Middle School, protested alongside parents and HISD students outside Gary L. Herod Elementary School in the in the Maplewood/Meyerland West area in Southwest Houston, TX on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Parents say their principal and several teachers are being being forced out. At far right is Ishtar Valor of Houston and at far left is Rochelle Cabe of Houston. Sharon Steinmann

The Houston ISD Board of Managers appears to have moved forward late Thursday with the termination of Herod Elementary School Principal Jessica Berry, who declined to resign in the district's recent removal of several campus leaders.

Berry said she was pulled into an approximately five-minute meeting May 8 with district employees who cited student growth in special education as their reason that she should resign.

After reviewing the resignation paperwork, Berry found that, if she signed, she would not be able to take any legal action against the district, would not be able to file any internal complaints or grievances against any district employee and would not be able to seek another job in the Houston Independent School District.

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She declined to resign in writing May 10 and followed up with a formal letter May 14. She said the district did not respond as of Thursday afternoon.

Berry said her biggest concern is looking out for the 770 students at the Meyerland magnet school. The campus is already set to have about 32 new teachers or teacher assistants, out of a total 43 teachers, in the fall.

"They're not decisions that are being made in the best interest of kids," Berry said, noting that teachers were pulled into "conferences for the record" during Teacher Appreciation Week.

THE REPORT CARD: Subscribe to the Houston Chronicle's weekly newsletter recapping HISD news

District representatives declined to answer the Houston Chronicle's questions regarding closed session agenda items for Thursday's meeting and were unable to clarify the action the board took after midnight.

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"We can't respond to any of these questions. All of these issues will be discussed in closed session as all employee actions and evaluative information are protected by state and/or federal privacy laws," HISD administration wrote prior to the meeting. "The Board will take necessary actions as part of their public meeting and that will be all the information that HISD can provide."

Berry said she has not seen anyone go to the board for termination without a formal meeting  a "conference for the record"  for which she has not received a notice.

Speculation on why she was asked to resign

Berry said she had two possibly performance-related run-ins with the district this school year. One was a memo notifying her that she missed two deadlines pertaining to the file review of a teacher, along with getting her direct supervisor to sign stating that he knew where State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness testing materials were stored. The other was for "expressing (her) concerns" about printing more than 50,000 pages of special education students' Individualized Education Programs.

Those documents typically range from 25 to 75 pages per student, which costs paper and ink, and contain protected, personal student information. She requested to print the summary pages, about three to 10 pages per student, and to electronically send the rest of the documents with password protection so that the information would remain private.

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Her direct supervisor reiterated her concern in agreement with her in a meeting, she said. She also sent her supervisor a screenshot of board policy that said teachers had to have access to these documents, not that they had to be printed.

The special education department of the West Division of HISD sent her a screenshot of the district's operating procedures that said it was district policy to print the documents. But, she said, that rule was not accessible anywhere she could view, though it was required to be posted on the Texas Legal Framework, a platform pertaining to students needing special education. She said she was written up in April.

Parents who are part of a group called Houston Stitching Together hold a crocheted sign as they protested outside Gary L. Herod Elementary School in the in the Maplewood/Meyerland West area in Southwest Houston, TX on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Parents say their principal and several teachers are being being forced out. Sharon Steinmann

Parents called for her to stay

Parents protested Wednesday morning in front of Herod Elementary School on behalf of their principal and other teachers targeted for removal. Parents also demanded transparency on why the district was seeking to remove some principals and staff. Community members are also signing a Change.org petition that asks for Berry  as well as positions including teachers, janitorial staff and wraparound specialists that provide families in need with resources  to remain. The petition has received more than 600 signatures.

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Robbie McDonough, father of a Herod fourth-grader, was one of the parents who protested for Berry to keep her job. He said Berry has been in her position for one year and has been working hard to get the school where it needs to be.

"We support her, and we don't want her to leave. Doesn't make sense. She's a talent in the district, and we're running her off," McDonough said. "That's just bad policy."

While Berry is worried that refusing to resign and speaking out will effectively end her career in public education, she said she has strong convictions to make a change.

"When all of this started two weeks ago, I've been sitting here thinking about how this has been everything I've worked for, and I've worked so hard to get to this point in my life, and I put so much time and effort into what I'm doing," Berry said.

Berry said school was hard for her when she was growing up. She has dyslexia and struggled to learn to read. But she has wanted to be a teacher since she was little, to everyone's surprise.

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"And my response as a very young child was, 'Because I think we can do it better,'" she said.
Novosounds Ceilidh system, a wide area corrosion monitoring system for industrial groups seeking to improve efficiency and safety of assets, will be featured at the 20th World Conference for Non-Destructive Testing (WCNDT) in Incheon, South Korea between 27th-31st May

CEO Dave Hughes will be meeting some of South Koreas most high profile technology and electronics groups during the companys visit to showcase its wearable ultrasonic digital health system the Slanj



On the back of recent client wins with global energy giants in the Middle East and North America, Scottish sensor technology scale-up company Novosound is targeting expansion in the APAC region.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240523799671/en/

Novosounds Ceilidh system, a wide area corrosion monitoring system that improves the efficiency and safety of industrial assets, will be featured at the 20th World Conference for Non-Destructive Testing (WCNDT) in Incheon, South Korea between 27th-30th May (Photo: Business Wire)

Novosounds Ceilidh system, a wide area corrosion monitoring system for industrial groups seeking to improve the efficiency and safety of their assets, will be featured at the 20th World Conference for Non-Destructive Testing (WCNDT) in Incheon, South Korea between 27th-30th May, hosted by the Korean Society for Nondestructive Testing (KSNT).

The Ceilidh is a fully patented system for the monitoring of corrosion and solves a number of industry challenges including corrosion under composite-wraps. Novosounds recent commercial wins in the international industrial sector follow previous contract wins with Atom Group (Greece), Uniper (UK), BAE Systems (UK), and GE Aviation (USA).

Novosound CEO and Founder Dave Hughes said: The Ceilidh system represents a significant breakthrough in the field of non-destructive testing, addressing complex challenges and specifically tailored for industries where corrosion monitoring is absolutely critical.

CEO Dave Hughes will also be meeting some of South Koreas most high profile technology and electronics groups during the companys visit to showcase its wireless wearable ultrasound system, the Slanj. The Slanj platform is currently being trialled with USA and European digital healthcare partners, utilising a pioneering technology which is able to look deeper into the body and enhance the monitoring of biometrics like blood pressure and dehydration compared to optical, magnetic, and electrical sensors.

Dave Hughes added: We look forward to exploring potential collaborations across the industrial and digital health sectors during our forthcoming visit to South Korea, as we proudly carry the banner for Scottish innovation and its world-class capabilities.

For further information: https://novosound.net/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240523799671/en/
China welcomes more foreign friends to come for mutually beneficial cooperation: spokesperson

Xinhua) 09:36, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Personnel exchanges between China and other countries have increased significantly recently, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday, adding that China welcomes more foreign friends to come and discover opportunities for vibrant and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on news that in the first quarter of this year, China saw more than 141 million entry and exit trips, marking a year-on-year increase of 117.8 percent.

Wang said that the increase in personnel exchanges between China and other countries benefited from the resumption of flights, the implementation of entry facilitation measures, and increase in the number of countries with mutual visa exemption.

Wang noted that to make it easier for foreigners to come to China, the country has implemented a raft of measures including visa optimization and visa-free entry for foreign tourist groups on cruise ships, and actively addressed difficulties facing foreign travelers such as mobile payment.

The facilitation for personnel exchanges between China and other countries has strongly promoted the recovery of global tourism and international economic and trade exchanges, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding among the people, Wang added.

"It is believed that the ties between China and the rest of the world will become ever closer in the future," Wang said, adding that China welcomes more foreign friends to come to the country, write more stories of exchanges between China and other countries, and discover more opportunities for vibrant and mutually beneficial cooperation.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Houston ISD board of managers member Angela Lemond Flowers, left, and Superintendent Mike Miles listen as a student speaks at a May 16 meeting, which adjourned early due to a storm. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Among the roughly 200 community members who turned out Thursday to condemn the chaos and instability being caused by massive forced resignations and terminations of principals and teachers in HISD was a former Principal of the Year who is now leading a call to action to remove state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles.

The board of managers appears to have ignored their pleas, passing personnel decisions after midnight pertaining to the principals of Herod Elementary School and Valley West Elementary School after spending hours in closed session. HISD officials were unable to clarify what the decisions entailed.

Neff Elementary School Principal Amanda Wingard, among those asked to resign, told the board she had serious ethical concerns that she detailed in a Call to Action.

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In that document, which was provided to the Houston Chronicle, she called for Miles resignation and the appointment of a takeover conservator. She pointed to a culture of fear, as well as inconsistent information shared with the board of managers and district stakeholders.

Wingard said some of the reasons why she believes she was forced to resign, such as wanting to collaborate with other principals about data and being told she could not. She said her forced resignation did not pertain to instruction and that Neff was proficient, to a burst of applause in the room.

I was asked to resign because the administrations definition of leadership, Wingard said. I ask questions respectfully in the best interest of students. For that, I am proud. We work in fear: Fear of asking the wrong questions. Fear of not meeting unknown expectations. Fear of subjective failure.

Inocencia Marquez, assistant principal at Tijerina Elementary School, also spoke and requested the board reject her resignation, defending her performance in regard to the middle of the year proficiency screener. She said that a New Education System standard was applied to her when she worked at a non-NES campus.

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Jef Waltman, speaking in defense of Herod Elementary School Principal Jessica Berry, said there are few leaders who could do what Berry did since she joined the school in 2022. Berrys role was on the agenda for consideration in closed session.

Youre presiding over a purge, Waltman said to the board. A drain of human capital like this district has never seen.

With details for a multi-billion dollar bond to be unveiled soon, many community members closed out their comments with the phrase No trust, no bond, underlining they would vote against a bond until the district improves transparency and consider speakers requests.

Andrea Catalano, mother of two HISD students, was among those who spoke in support of custodial staff members who were told to reapply to their positions at a lower hourly wage.

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It behooves me at this moment of natural disaster and crisis within our city to speak on behalf of those who have been at the forefront of bringing our schools back to functioning and working order, Catalano said.

'A complete blindside'

Wingard told the Houston Chronicle she was not given a concrete reason when the district asked her to resign.

It was not her direct supervisor, but her senior executive director of support, who asked. Wingard never spoke to this person about Neff or her performance. Wingard said she asked where her direct supervisor was and that person told her this was how they decided to let principals know.

I was told that my executive director took my name forward for file review, and they had enough evidence to bring me to termination, Wingard said. And that they were going to offer a resignation instead. Come to find out later  (the executive director) had no idea. And none of our executive directors, so not just mine, knew that any of us were being brought forward for termination.

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She said she had concerns about the evaluation system for principals, which changed five times, and communication regarding those changes. She was also a member of the principal advisory committee, and she said that the Monday before her request to resign the superintendent gave her the impression that she should not worry about her contract unless she had concerning conversations about her performance. Wingard said she walked away from that meeting believing she was in good standing.
A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket with Boeings CST-100 Starliner spacecraft aboard is seen on Monday, May 6, 2024 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The crewed launch attempt was scrubbed, and the companies will take another attempt on June 1, 2024. NASA/Joel Kowsky

The first crewed flight of Boeings Starliner spacecraft is now targeting June 1 after the company and its partners spent much of May troubleshooting three issues.

The CST-100 Starliner was on the launch pad May 6, preparing for liftoff, when United Launch Alliance detected an issue with a valve on its rocket that would push spacecraft toward the International Space Station.

The launch was scrubbed, and then two additional issues surfaced during investigation and replacement of the valve, officials said Friday. Boeing discovered a small helium leak on its spacecraft. Then the company found a thruster design vulnerability that, in a very unlikely scenario, could have affected the spacecrafts ability to come home.

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MORE ON THIS MISSION: Boeing looks to overcome delays, setbacks with first crewed flight of Starliner spacecraft

The launch will take place at 11:25 a.m. CDT from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

We chose 6-1 for a multitude of reasons, Mark Nappi, program manager of Boeings Commercial Crew Program, said during a news conference. One of the big reasons was to give the workforce the weekend off. Weve worked some really long hours, seven days a week, to get to where we are today.

This mission, NASAs Boeing Crew Flight Test, will be the first time astronauts ride inside Boeings CST-100 Starliner. Its slated to carry NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to the International Space Station.

Its the last major test before Boeing can receive NASA certification to begin operational missions flying crews to the space station.

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On May 6, United Launch Alliance halted the countdown because the valve on its Atlas V rocket was buzzing, or opening and closing very quickly. It exceeded the number of times it was tested to open and close. So the rocket was rolled back to the Vertical Integration Facility so United could replace it.

Before its return to the facility  but after the countdown clock was stopped  Boeing detected the small helium leak in a flange.

If United had not scrubbed the May 6 launch, Boeing likely wouldnt have detected the helium leak until Starliner was docked with the space station. But the company and NASA would have been able to manage the leak in flight, said Steve Stich, manager of NASAs Commercial Crew Program.

Theyve since determined that none of the other spacecraft flanges are leaking, and this one leak is not large enough to compromise the mission. So they will move forward with the launch.

Still, the leak prompted Boeing and NASA to conduct a more thorough inspection of the spacecrafts propulsion system. And thats when they discovered the design vulnerability.

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Before landing, Starliner must ignite its thrusters to leave Earths orbit and begin heading home. There are a variety of thruster combinations that can push Starliner toward Earth. The teams found an extremely unlikely set of multiple failures where certain thrusters could go out and Starliner wouldnt have had a plan to come home safely, Nappi said. They have since found a solution to get the crew home even if such a scenario were to occur.

There are over 17,000 potential combinations of failures, Nappi said. And what we found was that 99.2% of them were all addressed. And this small 0.77% is what we found. So that puts into context the remoteness.

Wilmore and Williams returned to Houston on May 10 and have been spending time with their families. If all goes according to plan, the astronauts will return to Florida on Tuesday and the Atlas V rocket and Starliner spacecraft will roll back to the launch pad Thursday.

After liftoff, the crew will spend roughly one week on the International Space Station before returning to land in the desert of the western United States.
All eyes are on the animated 2d feature The Most Precious of Cargoes, which will world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival this Friday. Its the first animated feature to appear in Cannes competition since Waltz with Bashir in 2008.

The Holocaust-related drama marks the feature animation directorial debut of French filmmaker Michel Hazanavicius, who won the Oscar for best picture and best director with his 2011 film The Artist. Cargoes is an adaptation of Jean-Claude Grumbergs recent novel of the same name.

Studiocanal recently released the first footage from the film in this teaser:

While the chances of an animated film winning the Palme dOr should be considered a longshot at best, its also not entirely out of the question. Firstly, competition at Cannes this year is relatively light and most films have been mildly reviewed  Screen International is keeping a scorecard HERE of how every film has fared with critics.

Secondly, the film screens last for the Cannes competition jury, presided over this year by Barbie director Greta Gerwig. This positioning can often times be advantageous at a festival, especially if the film is an emotional tearjerker, which this one appears to be.

But regardless of whether the film wins the top prize at Cannes, its a significant accomplishment for any animated feature to even appear in competition. As one of the highest-profile European animation releases of 2024, along with the upcoming Wallace & Gromit feature, The Most Precious of Cargoes will be much-discussed over the coming months.

While Cargoes doesnt release in France until November 20, and U.S. dates are not yet set, the film has another high-profile engagement next month, when it will screen as the opening night film of the Annecy animation festival.

Hazanavicius has structured the WWII-set story as, in his words, ultra-fiction, a film set in the real world that borrows codes of fairy tales but is also more poisonous than a fairy tale.

Speaking about the film to Variety, Hazanavicius further explained his overall storytelling goals:
Dani Sharkey knew she wanted to be a writer and animation director from an early age. She had long admired and been influenced by the work of Emmy winner Lauren Faust, the writer, director and showrunner of such projects as My Little Pony, Powerpuff Girls, Wander Over Yonder, and Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends.

When Sharkey, a 2024 graduate from the animation program at Chapman Universitys Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, found out that Faust was going to be working one-on-one with her for an hour each week on her senior film, it was a bit like a dream coming true.

Personally, as an advocate for female-oriented TV animation, I realized this mentorship opportunity would lead to a one-of-a-kind educational experience, Sharkey said. I almost couldnt believe it when we were told that Lauren Faust would be teaching and advising at Chapman.

But the opportunity to work with animation greats such as Faust is exactly what all Animation and Visual Effects (AVE) majors have at Dodge.

The undergraduate department, led by industry veteran Ruth Daly (The Iron Giant, Alvin and the Chipmunks), boasts not only Faust, but two-time Oscar nominee John Musker (Moana, The Little Mermaid) and Oscar-winning director Brenda Chapman (Brave, The Prince of Egypt) who meet with students every week as Pankey Distinguished Artist Program mentors, guiding them through their senior thesis projects.

Expert faculty and small classes within this world-renowned film school further enhance the experience of the 130 students currently enrolled at Chapman in three areas of emphasis: 2d animation, 3d animation, and visual effects, but its the mentors who help differentiate the program from that of its competitors.

What really sets us apart is one-on-one tutoring over an extended period of time on a personal project with a legendary director who students may only have dreamed of meeting, Daly told Cartoon Brew. Lauren, John, and Brenda bring the highest caliber of instruction we could ever hope to offer our students.

Parker Scarborough, another 2024 animation graduate, agreed. I left the mentorship feeling extremely enthusiastic about the value and importance of having my work critiqued. I think receiving notes can be nerve-racking for students, but it was a super enjoyable experience getting feedback from Lauren and John, she said. We would work through obstacles together like we were solving a puzzle, and Id always leave the meetings with renewed motivation to keep drawing and improving.

The ability to see my work through the eyes of someone with such a different perspective has been incredibly valuable, added newly graduated Brycen Sochiratna. I feel much more comfortable talking to leaders and authorities in the industry about my ideas and art as well as feeling that I have a much more human connection with them.

Practical Experience

In their freshman year, students study visual storytelling, and by the time theyre sophomores, theyre crafting their first short films. One of the many things they learn when working with the mentors is that clarity and efficiency are key, especially when shaping their short senior thesis films  a format that doesnt allow for a lot of time to tell their stories.

Fausts advice to students: What is your focus? What are you trying to say? What do you want your audience to feel? You may need to significantly simplify your plot and message so you can highlight humor, or, if you want to say something big with your characters journey, you must find ways to communicate those ideas quickly, but with proper impact, she told Cartoon Brew. Once you prioritize your focus, you can communicate it using the visual language of film, as well as universally understood ideas and concepts, to guide an audience to the reaction youre seeking from them  whether that is to laugh or cry, to connect and understand, or perceive something in a whole new way.

Many of the thesis students work in teams on their projects and that collaboration provides valuable practical experience for their artistic journey in the industry. Brenda Chapman credits that kind of interaction for her own success.

Having been in a role as an artist working in the trenches observing and taking direction from my supervisors and directors, I learned how to become a director and a leader.  All filmmaking is collaboration, but animation is especially so. It can be quite fulfilling for artists when helping another filmmaker create their vision  and it can be gratifying to a filmmaker when a team helps them create their vision.

Professional Preparation

Through hour-long weekly meetings with the mentors over a period of 10 weeks, students are prepared for the experience of receiving and implementing critiques in the real world after graduation. Updated reels are expected to be delivered prior to each session and notes are given through draw-overs and sketches; theyre even acted out.

When you first start animating, youre just happy that your characters are moving convincingly, said Assistant Professor Dave Kuhn, but the level of performance that these mentors are challenging the students to achieve is more about what the character is feeling at that moment in the story and how that can inform unique acting choices instead of relying on stock gestures or expressions.

Master Classes

One doesnt have to be a thesis student, however, to learn from these animation veterans. They also teach a variety of classes open to all Chapman Animation and Visual Effects students from Muskers Caricature class to Fausts Pitching and Showrunning seminar.

Said assistant professor John Perez: As a faculty advisor sitting in on these, I feel like Im auditing a master class.

For more information about Chapmans Animation and Visual Effects program, please visit the Dodge College website.
Andrea Leinfelder is the space reporter for the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at andrea.leinfelder@houstonchronicle.com.

Andrea has written about NASA and the commercial space sector since 2020, with her coverage spanning human spaceflight, robotic exploration and operations in low-Earth orbit. She also follows Elon Musk's Texas footprint.

Originally from Florida, Andrea graduated from the University of Florida in 2012 and has worked for the Houston Chronicle since 2014. She previously wrote for The News-Press in Fort Myers, Fla. She enjoys traveling, eating her way across Texas and chasing her 2-year-old son and 6-year-old dog.
Beton Provincial acquires CRH Canada assets

Muriel Bal By 23 May 2024

Beton Provincial has concluded its deal with CRH Canada Group Inc, acquiring assets in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador as well as the state of New York. As a result, Beton Provincial now operates one of the largest distribution networks in eastern North America.



The company now owns Ash Grove Cement's Joliette cement plant, six cement terminals (three in Newfoundland and Labrador, two in Greater Montreal and one in Solvay, New York), nine ready-mix concrete plants (including seven in Greater Montreal and two in the Quebec City region) as well as two quarries in Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur and Mirabel, Greater Montreal. Beton Provincial's cement activities will operated under the name of St Lawrence Cement/Ciment St Laurent, reviving a historically recognised brand in Quebec and eastern North America.



The transaction strengthens the vertical integration of the Canadian concrete and cement company's operations as well as enabling its to diversify its product range and improve control over its supply chain for the benefit of its customers. Furthermore, it is expected that the acquisition will bolster its ability to implement innovative projects in green concrete, and support its sustainable development targets.



This significant milestone highlights the journey undertaken by Beton Provincial since its foundation in Matane (Quebec) in 1960. We are very proud to see that a 100 per cent Canadian-owned company is now making its mark alongside the major multinational players in its industry. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the trust and continuous support of our partners, clients, and employees, who demonstrate our common commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, said Andre Belanger, president of Beton Provincial.

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CEMEX unveils first HVO-powered vehicle at Tilbury

Peter Bell By 24 May 2024

CEMEX has unveiled its first HVO-powered (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil) vehicle in support of its Future in Action programme, which acts as the driver for CEMEX to become a carbon net zero business by 2050.

HVO is a diesel-like biofuel that can be produced without fossil resources by processing renewable waste. Itis now one of the leading alternative renewable fuels available to the construction industry, producing up to 90 per cent less CO 2 emissions than traditional diesel fuel, and will act as a transitional fuel, helping to lower CO 2 emissions whilst the industry moves towards more longer-term solutions such as electric or hydrogen power.

The vehicle will be operating out of CEMEXs Tilbury cement plant, which sits on the River Thames, London.

CEMEX is also creating lower carbon building and construction materials through its Vertua range, increasing biodiversity through restoration work at its quarry locations and finding ways to reduce carbon emissions across its supply chain through increased rail activities and the use of alternative fuels such as HVO.

Dave Hart, CEMEX director of Supply Chain for the UK, says, HVO biofuel therefore, provides us with the opportunity for us to reduce carbon emissions, acting as a transitional fuel, whilst we continue to assess other emerging technologies such as electric and hydrogen power.

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In a lawsuit, Azael "Oz" Sepulveda is suing the city of Pasadena. Its parking requirements, his lawsuit claims, violate the Texas constitution. Institute for Justice Oz Sepulveda has outgrown this leased space. But Pasadena's parking requirements mean that he can't open in the new property that he's bought. Institute for Justice

Imagine youre ready to open your dream business. Youve bought the property and youve got the skills needed to run your shop. But suddenly, the city imposes physically impossible demands on you before you can open.

For several years, that has been the nightmare scenario Pasadena entrepreneur Azael Oz Sepulveda has found himself in. And other business owners throughout the Greater Houston area could face a similar reality due to arbitrary parking minimum laws.

Oz sued Pasadena in December 2021, challenging the constitutionality of the citys parking minimum law, which requires auto shops to have 10 parking spaces per 1,000 square feet. Oz was told he could not open his one-man auto repair shop on Shaver Street until it had 28 parking spaces  which he could not afford, did not need and would not physically fit on the property. The same land had previously been used as an auto shop for decades with no issues, and Oz only averages three cars parked at his current location, so he knew he did not need dozens of extra spaces.

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In May 2022, the city approved a settlement in which it agreed to allow Oz to open with fewer than 28 parking spots. But two years later, the city still wont let him open, leading Oz to file a second lawsuit in September 2023.

Last week, a judge heard arguments in the citys latest attempt to throw out Ozs case. The city argued it was immune from the lawsuit, which seeks to enforce the settlement agreement that the city itself already agreed to. The judge said that it seemed like a lot of wasted time and money, and a bad public policy decision. He rejected the citys immunity arguments, opening the door to resolving the heart of the lawsuit.

One would think that would be a wake-up call for city officials in Pasadena to stop stifling small business owners like Oz from earning a living. Instead, city officials remain obstinate. After the hearing, the city filed an appeal, which has the effect of keeping Oz in limbo for additional months or even years.

Under Pasadena law, the existing mechanic's shop that Oz Sepulveda bought would require 28 parking spaces  more than would physically fit on the property. Institute for Justice

These delay tactics on the citys part are not just an annoyance  they have a real negative impact on Ozs life and violate not just the settlement agreement but also the Texas Constitutions Equal Protection Clause. The citys abuse of government power means that Oz must continue to work out of his old, rented shop on Almendares Avenue so he can continue to make a living. All the while, hes forced to pay both the rent for that building and the mortgage on the Shaver Street building he owns, which the city still refuses to let him use without any good reason.

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Making matters worse, Pasadenas unconstitutional parking minimum law remains on the books. So an entrepreneur who sees what has happened to Oz could certainly be discouraged from opening a business in Pasadena. The city will require you to supply an arbitrary number of parking spaces, regardless of whether you need them or they even physically fit. If that doesnt work for you, you can try filing a lawsuit like Oz did. But, as weve seen, theres no guarantee the city will allow you to open, even if it agrees in writing to do so.

While Pasadena has some of the strictest parking minimum laws in the Houston area, it is not alone in imposing them. For example, Friendswood, Pearland and Houston all have parking minimums to varying degrees. One of the most absurd examples of the areas parking minimum laws is that Houston requires one parking spot per 71 square feet of building space for bars  the exact kind of business you dont want to encourage people to drive to and from. Rideshares, which are much safer for people whove been drinking, are everywhere now, and they dont require parking spaces.

But unlike Pasadena, which made its requirements stricter in 2021, many of these other cities are seeing the benefits of scaling back or getting rid of parking minimums.There are no minimum parking requirements in Houstons downtown Central Business District. In 2019, the city also exempted parts of Midtown and EaDo from the parking minimum law, leading several parking lots to be replaced by buildings and businesses. Pearland has allowed businesses in the Old Townsite District to cut their parking spots by 50% (or even more if they submit a traffic report). And across the state, other cities are making similar reforms with goals such as easing the burden on businesses or freeing up more space to build housing.

Instead of wasting more taxpayer money fighting a man who just wants to open his business, Pasadena should let Oz open, and take a good look at its absurd parking minimum law.
Multiple pro-Palestine groups gather on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin for a 'May Day' protest, Sunday, May 5, 2024, in Austin. Supporters demanded the public university pull its investment from companies the group believes are complaisant in deaths of Palestinians in Gaza and called for an end to the Israel-Hamas war. May Day, celebrated on May 1, commemorates historic struggles and gains made by workers and the labour movement. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Months before the University of Texas at Austin President Jay Hartzell oversaw an outrageous and unnecessary crackdown on Gaza solidarity demonstrators, the record of public intellectual activity on UTs Forty Acres campus casts doubt on Hartzells claim to be protecting free speech uniformly and consistently without discriminating against any particular point of view, as he wrote in a recent Chronicle op-ed. During the late fall and winter, UT showcased a pernicious double standard. Speakers supporting Israeli policy were twice backstopped by campus security while a prominent Palestinian-American legal academic was sidelined over alleged safety concerns. It is an example of the phenomenon legal scholars have dubbed The Palestine Exception to Free Speech.

On Dec. 6, 2023, the UT law school hosted An Evening with Bari Weiss, featuring remarks by the conservative former New York Times columnist. Minutes into Weiss address, some 40 demonstrators stood and began calling, Free, free Palestine. They were promptly escorted outdoors by UT police. Weiss resumed her talk, with hundreds  including myself  still in attendance.

Her narrative was that Israel and its allies were fighting a civilizational struggle against barbarism, a thesis that I found erroneous and objectionable. Still, I was glad that the law school had hosted Weiss, that the UT administration had not let agitators silence her and that I had heard her argument. I hoped that all attendees would return for the series next event, The Athenaeum presents Prof. Noura Erakat, on Jan. 25.

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Erakat, an accomplished human rights attorney, author, professor and public intellectual, contends that international law, while chronically flouted by the United States and Israel, remains integral for resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict. Therefore attendees of both talks would have gotten two influential, distinct perspectives on the Israel-Gaza war: one that envisioned a clash of cultures, and one that celebrated the principles underpinning international order. Yet on the cusp of Erakats visit, event organizers yielded to the hecklers veto they had proven so adept at neutralizing the month prior.

Days before Erakat was to visit Austin, law professor Ward Farnsworth announced her talk was being moved online. Citing information from multiple sources, he reported that bad-faith actors had hoarded seats to crowd out others who want to hear the talk, that many attendees (planned) to disrupt the lecture and that there was an increased threat of unspecified safety risks. Farnsworth concluded that a shift to a webinar was the available step most protective of speech under the circumstances. Reaching for a throughline, he added parenthetically, (I think the Weiss event would have been better if done online, too.)

Contrary to Farnsworths reading, I think Weiss appearance would have been sorely diminished online, while the actual event  dissenters and all  was a model for handling controversial speech. Known figures such as Weiss and Erakat appear regularly on podcasts and YouTube channels. Physical lecture spaces on university campuses provide a qualitatively superior opportunity for engaging a cross-section of the local community. Watching Erakat lecture from my computer, I sensed the university was conceding its intellectual mission and free-speech principles to a shadowy, if not mythical, mob.

As it happened, the threat of hecklers  and the need to consign guest lecturers to Zoom  vanished overnight. The day after Erakats virtual appearance, Israeli-American writer Yaron Brook spoke on campus for 90 minutes about Israels Moral War. (He also live-streamed.) Amplifying Weiss themes, Brook called on the Israeli military to defeat the Palestinian people as the Allies in World War II had defeated Germany and Japan. Dissenting attendees periodically made counter statements, but UT police officers ensured that Brook retained the floor. (They even arrested one audience member after he refused instructions to stop recording on his phone.)

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The operator of a local towing company who has multiple ties to another towing firm that is under scrutiny for "astonishing charges" denies that he has any affiliation with Chattanooga Impound.

Aaron Black said, "Chattanooga Impound and American Tow & Recovery are two independently owned companies with no affiliation with one another." He said a report by Chattanoogan.com of an "unsettling incident" a former Nashville TV producer had with Chattanooga Impound "is the second or third occurrence that American Tow & Recovery/myself have been targeted and a repeat victim of defamation/slander on public record with live coverage open to the public eye. I take tremendous pride in the company I have built and stand firmly on the fact that American Tow & Recovery is being targeted/victimized while abiding by any and all ordinances set forth by the city of Chattanooga."

He added, "American Tow & Recovery's side of the story is we have no side. We had no involvement with said incident and we have no affiliations with Chattanooga Impound whatsoever."

Except he was present at Chattanooga Impound last Oct. 1 and took over $300 cash from the producer. (He later returned it after Corrine Gould and her male friend filmed the incident on a visible cellphone in a shirt pocket, cited the city ordinance on wrecker charges and insisted on getting a receipt.)

Except that Chattanooga Impound's business license was issued to Karissa Elizabeth Graham, Black's girlfriend/financee. Ms. Graham's Facebook page in one posting features the emblem of American Tow & Recovery.

Except that Black's brother, Nolan Caylor, is one of the managers at Chattanooga Impound and counted the cash that Ms. Gould handed over.

Chattanooga Impound maintains that it can charge whatever it wants since the city ordinance on wreckers applies only to those on the rotation call list, and it is not on the list.

A number of local residents and out-of-town visitors have been dismayed when they arrive at the Chattanooga Impound lot and learn the charges they are facing.

Ms. Gould, a former Spring City resident who is now assistant commissioner for public affairs for the state Agriculture Department, said she is sure the man she gave the money to is Gregory Aaron Black, though she said he identified himself as Gregory Johnson.She said photos taken from their video match that of Aaron Black. She said one identification mark on both photos was a large right arm tattoo.

She said Chatanooga Impound signs at Walmarts and other locations do not comply with city ordinance for wreckers on the tow rotation. She said the signs do not tell the location where the vehicle can be picked up, do not include the charge, do not include the form of payment, and are only visible from one direction at the Brainerd Walmart.

Ms. Gould said the invoice and fees charged do not comply with city ordinance for wreckers on the tow rotation.

She said in her case the invoice exceeded the maximum charge allowed by $175 and exceeded the storage fee allowed by $10. She said a towing fee was charged her even though she notified the lot within 12 hours of being towed.

Ms. Gould said Chattanooga Impound's vehicle release time does not comply with city ordinance for wreckers on the tow rotation.

She said, "It is unfortunate that this tow company is giving Chattanooga a bad name and giving reputable wrecker companies a black eye as well."

Ms. Gould said she has contacted members of the City Council, asking them "to close a giant loophole in the city wrecker ordinance."

She said she heard back only from Vice Chair Jenny Hill, who said the city is looking into the issue..

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Each of Tennessees 95 counties recorded lower unemployment rates in April, and each came in at or below 4.1 percent, according to newly released data from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development.Williamson County recorded the states lowest unemployment rate for the month. At 2 percent, the rate dropped 0.2 of a percentage point from 2.2 percent in March.Sevier County had Tennessees second-lowest rate in April, which was 2.1 percent, down 0.4 of a percentage point from the previous months rate.While Clay and Lauderdale counties experienced the states highest unemployment rates, they still decreased and were below 5 percent.Both counties recorded rates of 4.1 percent, which was a 0.4 of a percentage point drop for Clay County. Lauderdale Countys rate went down 0.4 of a percentage point in April.Bledsoe County had the second-highest jobless rate at 3.9 percent, which was 0.3 of a percentage point lower than the rate it recorded in March.A complete analysis of the unemployment data for each county, along with data for Tennessees cities and metropolitan and micropolitan areas, is available here.County unemployment rates are not adjusted to take into consideration seasonal impacts on employment such as school breaks, severe weather events, and jobs during the holiday season.One week ago, TDLWD reported that the statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate had dropped 0.1 of a percentage point to match Tennessees all-time low unemployment rate of 3.1 percent.School is out for the year across Tennessee. Young adults ages 14-24 still have time to take part in YEP, Tennessees Youth Employment Program. YEP matches participants with employers who can mentor them through meaningful employment. The state-funded program allows each young person to earn up to $4,000. Local partners across the state handle the administrative duties for the hiring process, insurance, and pay the participants wages. Interested individuals and employers can learn more at YEPTN.com.The state of Tennessee will release the statewide unemployment data from May 2024 on Thursday, June 20 at 1:30 p.m. CDT.
Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced Thursday that his office is looking into a private investment companys attempt to foreclose on Graceland. The Memphis home that was the residence of one of the worlds most influential musicians became the target of Nausanny Investments and Private Lending, LLC after claims that moneys owed to the lender by the heirs of Elvis Presley had been defaulted. Presleys granddaughter asked for and received a stay of the sale based on allegations of fraud against the company.

Graceland is one of the most iconic landmarks in the State of Tennessee, and the Presley family have generously shared it with the world since Elviss passing, said Attorney General Skrmetti. Elvis made Memphis the center of the music universe, and Graceland stands as a monument to his legacy and a fond remembrance for his family. My office has fought fraud against homeowners for decades, and there is no home in Tennessee more beloved than Graceland. I have asked my lawyers to look into this matter, determine the full extent of any misconduct that may have occurred, and identify what we can do to protect both Elvis Presleys heirs and anyone else who may be similarly threatened.

Graceland opened to the public on June 7, 1982. As one of the most visited homes in America, nearly one million visitors annually make a pilgrimage to the site. Only the White House attracts more tourists to a home. Graceland is owned by Elvis Presleys granddaughter, and a court in Memphis confirmed her ownership on Wednesday.
Direct Flooring will be opening their newest location at 5013 Rossville Blvd. on Wednesday.

The owner, Jordan Parker, is a Chattanooga native and third-generation in the carpet and flooring industry.

"I learned this business (and retail side of this industry) while working in my grandfather's store in East Ridge," said Mr. Parker. "I began working at 10 years old and earned $1 an hour. Much more important than any earnings, was the teachings of my grandfather and how to run a successful store, focused on customer satisfaction."

When Mr. Parker's family's store closed in 2004, he decided to start his back on his own. "I had just come back from college and needed to draft a business model to have a more "direct" approach to providing the best prices and service to my clientele. I rented a small storage facility, borrowed a forklift and had my mother help me to co-sign on a pickup truck." This was the beginning of Direct Flooring.

In 2009, Direct Flooring purchased their first location at the intersection of Dodds Avenue and 48th Street.

"Being a graduate of McCallie School, I told people that I had never driven this far down Dodd's Avenue. Many people warned me that this area was bad, but I always went with my gut, which told me that a business can thrive on "The Blvd". For the past 15 years, this first location has served us very well."

Mr. Parker recently purchased and renovated an historic building in the Downtown District of Rossville Boulevard. This large investment in the new location will serve as a full representation of the vision that he has for his business, as well as the belief he has in the power of the Rossville Boulevard community.

"I've always heard the stories of the jewel that this area had once been," said Mr. Parker. "I believe there is plenty of hope to 'Bring back the BLVD.'"

"I urge other businesses to consider the Rossville Boulevard area as an opportunity for investment. I am an 'open book' for any questions or advice.

Direct Flooring will have its soft opening on Wednesday, followed by a grand opening mid-June.


Time is running out for Hamilton County judges to comply with state laws about due process during pretrial. Local courts are currently violating the statutory and constitutional rights of dozens of people per day.

According to a study of Hamilton County jail data from six months in 2022-2023, an average of 43 people were arrested each day in Hamilton County, many for misdemeanor offenses. Pretrial detainees are considered legally innocent awaiting their court date, but if they cant afford to pay bail for their pretrial freedom, they are locked up to wait for their day in court. About 80 percent of the population at Hamilton County Jail falls into this category: pretrial defendants awaiting trial. Innocent until proven guilty, right?

Data shows that in Hamilton County, it has taken up to 14 days (or more) before an attorney is appointed to represent a defendant. In that time, these defendants are missing work and family life, and the bills are piling up at home. Many people settle for plea deals just so they can go home. Of those who remain in jail pretrial, more than a third of defendants are likely to have their charges dismissed in the end.

Last September, Civil Rights Corp won a class-action lawsuit, Torres v. Collins, against Hamblen County officials in East Tennessee. The court determined Hamblen County was engaging in unjust and illegal pretrial practicessome of the same practices that Hamilton County is now being called upon to correct.

In the Hamblen County decision, the court came to very clear conclusions about what rights are due under the law in the state of Tennessee: the right to representation by a lawyer, the right to request a bail hearing, and the right to an evidentiary hearing where the burden of proof is on the state.

A person cannot be detained for more than 48 hours without access to their due process rights. Hamilton County officials are aware of this legal liability and the need to comply with the law. Its time to stop ignoring the problems. We need to reduce pretrial incarceration by using citations rather than arrests, offering timely legal counsel to detainees, and drastically reducing the use of money bail. I call upon our county commissioners, county judges, and local attorneys to work together to ensure we are all innocent until proven guilty.

Allie Stafford

* * *

In her letter to the editor, Allie Stafford bemoans the existence of cash bail and argues that we should be releasing more accused criminals on their own recognizance pending trial. I wonder how the families of Evan Derry and Randy Williams feel about that. Terrance Lewis was just convicted of murdering both, and he murdered Randy Williams while out on bail pending trial for the murder of Evan Derry. Lewis has also been charged with murdering Pierre Casseus, again while out on bail awaiting trial. It appears that two murders could have been prevented if Lewis had been held in jail before trial rather than being released on bail.

There may be innocent people in jail awaiting trial, and some of those who are guilty may not be much of a threat to the community or a significant flight risk. Judges are supposed to take those factors into account when deciding whether to deny or grant bail or to release an accused on his own recognizance. Judges and all the rest of us, and especially those who agree with Allie Stafford, should remember that the consequences of releasing the wrong people can be tragic and irreversible. We should err on the side of community safety.

Andy Walker

* * *

I agree with Andy Walker's response to Allie Stanford's letter. The vast majority of people arrested need arrested. If not for the crime stated at the time, there is probably others they have gotten away with or will commit in the future.

I support due process of the law, but I feel the judges and magistrates should be more discerning on who is granted bail. If we should change it, it should more strict, not less. A lot of these people are a danger to the general public. There is no perfect system, there will always be mistakes made, we are human. But as I said earlier the vast majority of people arrested need arrested.

The criminals are already not worried about being arrested due to the lack of repercussions they face if they are. We need to change that ASAP and err on the side of public safety.

Forced labor "within reason" to offset the cost of your incarceration is not "cruel and unusual" punishment. People on the outside do it all the time just to survive.

Sam Lewallen

* * *

Andy Walker and Sam Lewallen, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to understand Allie Swafford isn't referring to people arrested for violent crimes. Allie Swafford is surely speaking on behalf of those arrested for non-violent issues/not really crimes, such as an alleged traffic violation, minor drug offenses and other minor issues.

A young man, white, with no criminal history was arrested for falling behind on child-support payments. When in transport and handcuffed, another inmate, also handcuffed, rose from his side of the van and brutally punched the young man in the face. I mentioned his race because these types of arrests don't only impact a specific segment of people or communities, you two likely envision they do or want them to. These are the type of arrests that aren't necessary. Why the young white male was behind on child-support payments, or could no longer meet the court amount he was ordered to pay, a loss of job, I don't know and I don't care. The fact remains, he shouldn't have been arrested in the first place and placed in such a vulnerable spot.

These type and other similar arrests often create crimes, as people become desperate and will do anything, even actually committing a serious crime, like the young man once so feared going back to jail for child-support, went and commit a robbery or held up a bank or something in an attempt to catch up on payments. These types of crimes also create the perfect storm for domestic violence. It's an endless cycle that impacts everyone.

Some of your same-minded boys came out swinging recently in defense of someone they personally knew who was arrested for an actual alleged violent act against their son where a bat was allegedly used as a weapon. I'm not bashing them, nor the accused. I'm just saying, you can't have it both ways. If you want tougher laws, harsher treatment, you can't have it for only "those people over there," and not the ones you like or know personally, or think you know personally.

Brenda Washington
Hamilton County Sheriffs Office Deputy Chad Meyners patrol unit was rear-ended by a Ford F-250 pickup truck late Thursday night, while he was providing scene safety for road construction crews at Exit 184 on Interstate 24. The crash happened around 11:40 p.m.

Despite the incident, Deputy Meyners was able to get out of the damaged patrol unit and check on the driver who advised he was uninjured.



Deputy Meyners only sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital for medical review.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol responded to the scene to investigate the crash and the driver of the F-250, identified as Benjamin Cooksey, was arrested by troopers and charged with driving under the influence, driver to exercise due care, and possession of a firearm while under the influence.

Sheriff Austin Garrett said, As I left the hospital last night checking on Deputy Meyners and after seeing the catastrophic damage to his patrol unit at the scene, I am extremely grateful he was not more seriously injured or killed. This incident highlights the incredible dangers our personnel face on a daily basis while performing their duties and emphasizes the importance of Tennessees Move Over Law. Drivers should always move over for vehicles who are parked on the sides of the roadway whether public safety or civilian, when their flashers or emergency lights are activated. As we begin the Memorial Day Weekend, please remember to slow down, drive responsibly and never get behind the wheel of any motor vehicle while under the influence. If you do, my deputies stand ready to remove you from our roadways.
Juror Appreciation Week is observed in the month of May. Jury service is among the nations most important civic duties, and the people who serve on juries certainly deserve appreciation for their service to our country.

The founders feared governmental tyranny, so they built juries into our legal system. They believed certain functions were simply too important to be left to government officials acting alone. For this reason, prosecutors do not have the power to bring indictments requiring those under investigation to stand trial for felony criminal offenses; rather, only ordinary citizens called together into grand juries can bring indictments. Likewise, it is not judges, but ordinary citizens called together into trial juries, who decide guilt or innocence in criminal trials or liability and damages in civil trials where there are disputes about the facts.

Most of us have some idea what jurors do after they arrive in a courthouse. But what is the process to get there? And who among us is legally qualified to serve?

Federal Jury Selection Plans

Congress has enacted laws to guarantee that all federal juries are selected at random from a fair cross section of the community in which the relevant court meets. 28 U.S.C.  1861. Moreover, it is against the law for anyone to be excluded from jury service because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or economic status. 28 U.S.C.  1862. These laws protect the Sixth Amendment rights of the people whose cases are being tried to be judged by a jury of their peers. But these laws also give all citizens the opportunity to be considered for service on grand and trial juries, 28 U.S.C.  1861, so that all citizens have a fair chance to participate in this important form of public service.

To carry out these goals, the law requires every federal district court to develop a written jury-selection plan. 28 U.S.C.  1863(a). Every plan must be reviewed by judges from a higher court to make sure it complies with the law. Jury-selection plans also must be filed with the Attorney General of the United States, who can challenge the selection of any grand jury or trial jury if it the selection did not follow the law. 28 U.S.C.  1867(b). In this way, all three branches of the federal government have a role in ensuring that juries are randomly selected from a fair cross section of their communitiesCongress by enacting the laws, the judiciary by developing and approving the plans, and the executive branch by reviewing and challenging jury selection when necessary.



Qualifications to Be a Juror

Because the goal is to have a fair cross section of the community serve on juries, there are no specialized requirements for education or experience to serve. A juror must be a citizen of the United States. He or she must be at least eighteen years old and have lived for at least a year in the judicial district where the jury will sit. 28 U.S.C.  1865. A juror must also be able to speak, read, and write English adequately, and must not have a mental or physical condition that would prevent them from being able to serve. Anyone with a pending felony charge or a felony conviction can only serve as a juror after having their civil rights restored.



Certain categories of people are exempted from federal jury service. 28 U.S.C.  1863. People on active duty in the military and people who work for fire or police departments are exempted by law. People who serve as volunteer safety personnel may be excused at their individual request, as well. Finally, public officers of any of the branches of federal, state, or local government are exempt. These exceptions help ensure members of grand juries and trial juries are indeed the ordinary citizens the framers envisioned fulfilling these critical functions for our government.



Selecting Prospective Jurorsa Multi-Wheeled System

The first step of any jury selection plan is to put a large, random selection of names of prospective jurors into a master jury wheel. These names must come either from voter registration lists or from lists of actual voters. 28 U.S.C.  1863. District court jury-selection plans may add additional sources if necessary to achieve a fair cross section of the community. In the Eastern District of Tennessee, names for the master jury wheel come from the voter registration lists of each of the counties in the district. The relative populations of each county within a courts jurisdiction must be proportionately represented within the master jury wheel as part of ensuring the master jury wheel represents a fair cross section of the community. At least once every four years, the master jury wheel must be emptied and refilled. In this district, the master jury wheel is emptied and refilled every four years, in the year after each presidential election.



The next step is for a smaller group of names to be drawn randomly from the master jury wheel. Each person whose name is drawn is then contacted and asked to fill out a questionnaire, under oath, about the persons qualifications to be a juror. 28 U.S.C.  1864. The names of all the people who qualify are then placed in a qualified jury wheel. 28 U.S.C.  1866(a).



Then, whenever it is time to select a grand jury or a trial jury panel, the court draws names from the qualified jury wheel at random and summons those people to come to court for service. 28 U.S.C.  1866(a), (b). Once anyone with an unavoidable conflict or hardship is excused, the required number of jurors is, once again, randomly selected. A grand jury is then complete. For trial juries, there is an additional step known as voir dire, an old legal term meaning to speak the truth.



During voir dire, judges, and often the lawyers as well, ask questions of the prospective jurors to determine if any of them are not suited to serve on that particular case. Some potential jurors may be excused for cause, such as a bias for or against one side or another. Each party in a lawsuit also has the right to strike a limited number of potential jurors who they believe may be unfavorable to their case for other, less-defined reasons. These peremptory strikes may be based on any reason or no reason at all, as long as they do not discriminate on the basis of certain categories, such as race, gender, religion, or national origin. In this way, peremptory strikes are not to be used to prevent a jury from representing a fair cross section of the community where trial is taking place.



Conclusion

A trial by jury is a fundamental right we enjoy in this nation. This right could not exist without the people who sacrifice their time and attention to serve as jurors when called upon. Without ordinary citizens willingly stepping away from their homes and jobs, our justice system could not function. This month in particular, we appreciate those citizens who fulfill this important civic duty. And let those of us who are eligible to serve be willing to do so if and when our names are selected in this multi-randomized process.

Curtis L. Collier

United States District Judge

Chair, Eastern District of Tennessee Civics and Outreach Committee

Carrie Brown Stefaniak

Law Clerk to the Honorable Curtis L. Collier

Past President, Chattanooga Chapter of the Federal Bar Association

Erienne Reniajal Lewis

Law Clerk to the Honorable Curtis L. Collier



Rachel Elaine Noveroske

Law Clerk to the Honorable Curtis L. Collier
When African elephants meet up with their friends, they greet them with a mix of vocalizations and gestures in a way thats similar to what humans do.

New research has found that they flap their ears, make rumbling sounds, waggle their tails, and stretch out their trunks to say hello to each other. The details of the study were published in the journal Communications Biology.

Elephants are very intelligent and social creatures. The structure of the type of societies they live in involves splitting up with one another regularly and reuniting at a later time as they wander the expanse of their habitat.

After spending some time apart, elephants appear to greet each other, engaging in something called multimodal communication.

At first, researchers werent sure if the elephants were communicating intentionally. To better understand their body movements and other methods of greeting, the researchers worked with nine African savannah elephants at the Jafuta Reserve in Zimbabwe.

These elephants are considered semi-captive as they are allowed to roam freely during the day but sleep in stables at night. The group included four females and five males.

The researchers first identified which elephants were familiar with one another. Then, they separated pairs of elephants that were well-acquainted for around 10 minutes.

Afterward, they brought the elephants back together and watched their greeting process. Overall, the scientists recorded a total of 1,014 physical movements and 268 vocalizations during 89 reunions.

Among the elephants, the most common greeting was a low rumbling noise accompanied by ear flapping. Females used this combination of greetings more than males.

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Around 4,000 years ago, a prehistoric man from the Stone Age died by drowning. His remains were excavated in Norway in 1916.

Now, a team of researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim has recreated the mans appearance based on his DNA and his skeletal remains.

The mans body was found on the island of Hitra, which is located off the west coast of Norway. A group of workers had been repairing a road that led to a farm when they made the discovery.

An analysis revealed that the man had been in his mid-20s at the time of his death. He died toward the tail end of the Stone Age, about 4,000 years ago.

Back then, the sea levels in the area where he died were much higher than they are today. The site in which his remains were discovered would have been more than 13 feet underwater. So, archaeologists believe that he might have drowned.

Parts of the skeleton are well-preserved and must have been covered with shell sand on the seabed shortly after he died, said Birgitte Skar, an archaeologist with NTNU University.

Experts gathered that the man was approximately five feet and six inches tall. Thanks to DNA analyses of other individuals with similar genetic profiles from the same time period, they were able to reconstruct his hair, skin, and eyes. The man once had blue eyes and fair hair.

In addition, a few artifacts were unearthed alongside his body, including a dagger and an arm guard, which suggested that he was a warrior.

Currently, it is unclear whether the man died from drowning or while in combat. During the time he was alive, the region he lived in was undergoing significant societal shifts.

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In 1994, a woman named Bobbi Parker helped Randolph Dial, a convicted murderer, escape from the prison where her husband worked as a deputy warden.

She was kidnapped by Dial and lived with him for over a decade. It is believed that she was held captive and brainwashed by him, but some say that they were really in love.

Today, well be diving into whether her feelings for him were genuine or if she was suffering from Stockholm syndrome.

Most of us have an idea as to what Stockholm syndrome is. Its what happens when someone is taken as a hostage and ends up developing a bond with their captor.

However, experts note that this bond is formed as a survival tactic, a way to cope with the stress of a hostile situation.

So, what happened between Bobbi Parker and Randolph Dial? Bobbi Parker and her husband, Randy, lived next to the Oklahoma State Reformatory.

They had two daughters together, aged eight and 10. Next door, an inmate named Randolph Dial was being held at the facility.

He had received a life sentence for the murder of a karate instructor in 1981 after drunkenly confessing to it in 1986. Aside from being a murderer, Dial was an artist, sculptor, and master manipulator.

He had been given special privileges at the facility, so he was allowed to live in minimum-security housing outside of the prison.

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Illustration by Mallory Rentsch Tlapek / Source Images: Getty / WikiMedia Commons

This piece was adapted from Russell Moores newsletter. Subscribe here.

On Monday of next week, my wife, Maria, and I celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. As I think about those two kids standing at the altar, I would want to say I do all over again to everything. One of the very few exceptions would be one decision that had to do with the wedding, not with the marriage. After 30 years, Ive changed my mind about the biblical text I wouldnt let us read.

Somebody suggested that we read at the ceremony a passage from the Old Testament book of Ruth, one that we heard read or sung at almost every wedding at the time. In the King James Version (which was what people almost always used), the text reads, Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God (1:16). Its about the young widow Ruth from Moab, pledging to her dead husbands mother, Naomi, that she would go with her to Naomis homeland of Israel.

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I believed then, and still do, that all Scripture is inspired and profitable (2 Tim. 3:16, ESV throughout), but I didnt think that particular Scripture was appropriate for a wedding.

Its not about marriage, I said. Its about someone taking a trip with her mother-in-law. I wanted something about the mystery of Christ in Ephesians 5 or about love from Song of Songs or about Jesus at the wedding at Cana. I could even have lived, I said, with 1 Corinthians 13. Of all of the things about the wedding ceremony, I only insisted on twothat we use the traditional vows and that we read some other text than that one. You could say that I was ruthless in my Ruthlessness.

If I can give some unwanted advice to my 22-year-old self, the groom, I would say to him, You are right about the bride, and right to ask her to marry you. This will be the best earthly decision you will make in the course of your life, but you are wrong about Ruth. That text has everything to do with your next 30 years.

Thirty years ago, I knew how to preach about the cosmic mystery of Christ and his church, a mystery reflected in marriage. I knew that I loved this woman, and I didnt want to be with anybody else. And I knew enough to know that the old vows were better, that we needed the words our parents and grandparents and great-grandparents had vowed. How could we describe our commitment better than for better or for worse  till death us do part?

I know some people who have had hard marriages. Some marriages I admire greatly have been, I know, a fierce struggle to keep together. Ours is not one of those. Weve faced far more better than worse, and even when the worse has arrived, it was always better because of her. Thats mostly because Im the quirky one and shes the stable, unshakable one.

In the biblical account, Naomi, grieving the death of her sons, insists that both of her daughters-in-law stay behind in Moab, where they can start their lives over again. Ruth, though, was committing, before God, to walk into a future completely unknown to her. And so were we.

If you had asked those two kids back at the altar in Biloxi, Mississippione of us 22 years old, the other 20what our life story would be, we couldnt have predicted how much we would laugh together. Im not sure we could have predicted how30 years laterwe would still want to be around each other all the time.

We wouldnt have known what it would be like to hold each other after getting the phone call about a fathers death, or what it would be like to feel the other trembling in tears after a miscarriage. We wouldnt have known what it would be like to trek out together to a Russian orphanage to adopt two little boys, nor what it would be like to see in a hospital room our other three boys who came to us the more typical way.

I wouldnt have known that the only ultimatum I would ever hear from my wife was about whether wed ever attend another Southern Baptist business meeting. I couldnt have foreseen how much the words Donald Trump would shape the circumstances of our lives, or that that year would outlast the seven years of tribulation our Sunday School prophecy charts had promised.

What I really would not have predicted, though, is howjust like the story of Ruthso much of our story would be made up not in those big moments but in the very small, ordinary ones: the fleeting encounter in the gleaning field, the midnight meeting in the threshing place, the birth of a baby.

Naomi said at the beginning that she should rename herself bitter (1:20), but the text shows us the turnaround of her now rejoicing with Ruths newborn on her lap. The women of the neighborhood said of this old widow, who once thought her story was over, A son has been born to Naomi (4:17). Many things that seemed to be coincidencesjust the right thing happening at the right timeled up to that.

Last night, Maria and I walked with our youngest son down to the creek by our house, where our son climbed some trees as we walked the dog. The cicadas were buzzing and the fireflies were flashing all around. I stopped and wanted to freeze that moment in time. It was almost as if a future version of myself was time traveling back to whisper, This is the best. This is the sort of thing you will remember on your deathbed. Those are the moments that shape a life, that surprise us with joy.

I didnt want Ruth at the wedding because I thought I knew how words worked. I was, after all, a preacher and a former political speechwriter, and an aspiring theologian. I wanted our wedding to be focused on the big story of Christ and his gospeland an out-of-context Bible verse about some women whod lost their husbands just wouldnt do. My problem was that I couldnt see that that little narrative is about the big story of Christ and his gospel. The conversation led to the trip, and the trip led to love, and the love led to a birth for a family from Bethlehem. The story ends with the mention of that baby, Obed, but not as a mere happily ever after resolution of the storyline.

The book ends with the words, Obed fathered Jesse, and Jesse fathered David (4:22). The setting is cast for what would happen from Bethlehem in the books to follow, 1 and 2 Samuel, of the shepherd-musician who would be promised that one of his sons would sit on his throne: He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever (2 Sam. 7:13).

Ruth didnt know that her promise to one old woman would end up leading to Israels kingnor that Israels king would lead to the deliverance of that family line from existential threat, all the way through to another story, that of a worker and a virgin, a story that would end up, again, with a baby in Bethlehem, one in whom the entire cosmos holds together, one whose kingdom will never end.

Your little story, and mine, arent quite so messianic in their stakes. But, then again, maybe they are, in some way. The Bible says that everything working around us ends up for good, and then defines what that good isthat we would be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers (Rom. 8:29). All of that comes about in each of our lives through lots of little decisions that ripple out in ways we cant see. Every once in a while, though, we can look back and see some wordslike I dothat were the right words to the right personwords that we can only explain by grace.

Jesus is Lord. All of the story of Scriptureall of the story of the universe, visible and invisibleis his story. He holds the keys of life and death. And sometimes he stops by a wedding (John 2:12). Sometimes, in a wedding or, better yet, in a marriage, one can get a glimpse of his glory (2:11).

Thirty years ago, we said to each other that we would love, comfort, honor, and keep each other, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, as long as we both shall live. I would say those words again. But I might add some other words tooWhere you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you (Ruth 1:17).

At either my funeral or Marias, people can read any number of Bible passages; I love them all. But, if youre there, know theres one of them that I am happy for you to read or to sing or just to remember, because I will mean it then as I do now: Whither thou goest, I will go.

Russell Moore is the editor in chief at Christianity Today and leads its Public Theology Project.
Oscar Siwali is mobilizing conflict mediators as the country goes to the polls. He only wishes his organization could train more.

Themba Hadebe / AP / Edits by CT

Oscar Siwali remembers watching Nelson Mandelas triumphant walk as he left prison after 27 years. In 1990, as the young pastor of a Baptist church, Siwali saw himself as an evangelical focused on winning souls and tending to his flocks spiritual needs, not needing to prioritize political concerns. Nonetheless, he shared the pride of his peoples successful anti-apartheid activism that demanded Free South Africa Now, an outcry that inspired worldwide solidarity.

But just three years later, a far-right white nationalist assassinated Chris Hani, a leader of the South African Communist Party an attack that threatened to derail South Africas transition from the oppressive white-minority rule to a democratic government that represented the entire country.

When Hanis murder threatened to unleash a civil war that South Africans had labored so many decades to avoid, Siwali, like fellow Christian leader Archbishop Desmond Tutu, realized his faith compelled him to action. He began to preach peace in his sermons and to talk to those who had taken to the streets.

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I saw a different way of the work that I was called into, where I wasnt just in service from the pulpit, Siwali said. That was truly my first revelation in seeing the importance of the clergy being out there, engaging with people  and [figuratively] taking that pulpit and placing it in the center of a community.

In 2013, Siwali founded SADRA, a faith-based organization that trains people of all ages and backgrounds to be conflict mediators in their communities. It also has special programs for local church leaders, whom SADRA believes can be most effective in areas prone to violence and political tension because of the widespread respect they engender. SADRA is the only faith-based organization contracted with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to train election mediators and observers, and its current mission is ensuring that South Africas May 29 elections do not culminate in violence.

While the African National Congress (ANC) has held power since Mandela became president in 1994, with Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa seeking reelection, simmering discontent and power ambitions have birthed new political parties. Currently, as many as 300 parties are vying for the presidency, each vowing to fulfill the sweeping promises of liberation and equality espoused by the anti-apartheid movement.

Meanwhile, a new generation of younger leaders has emerged, impatient with and frustrated by the elders who have led a nation of high unemployment, high domestic violence, and low wealth redistribution. Further complicating the election is the inclusion of independent candidates for the first time. (Citizens do not vote directly for president; rather, the winning party selects the nations next leader.)

Church leaders are on high alert that their nation could violently implode, particularly if people do not believe the elections were fair and corruption-free. Last month, for instance, pastors met with political leaders to pray and to strategize how to avoid bloodshed in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africas second-most populous state, which is predicted to have a highly contested vote.

Almost all of the people I know working in mediation and peacekeeping are gearing up for the national elections, Siwali said. Respected people in communities need to be able to watch over and be the eyes of society to make sure the counting is done properly and also be a neutral voice if tensions take place.

CT talked with Siwali about his goal of training 5,000 church-leader mediators to work the elections, why so many feel frustrated about the state of their country, and how those outside the country can help.

How do South Africans generally feel about the state of their country?

For some time, the focus in South Africa was on working toward democracy and resolving the clear conflict between black and white people. The conflicts have now become about the lack of quality government service delivery and people not seeing the democratic dispensation that they had been waiting for, the freedom that people had been singing about.

At SADRA, we often hold community dialogues, and youll hear people saying, I had seen on television in some countries that when freedom comes after war, the poor now live in big homes. The blacks take over the homes of the whites. But in our country, white people still live in the same homes that they lived in, and the blacks still live in the tin shacks that we live in. So, did freedom actually come?

Some people even say, Who said we wanted democracy when what we actually wanted was freedom? They trusted the political leaders, but the leaders were not communicating that they werent getting the freedom they wanted because we have not been to war. Its usually in countries that have been to war where you will have people who were poor taking over companies and homes from the rich. Thats not what has happened in South Africa because weve taken a peaceful journey in attempting forgiveness of each other and in working toward building a nation.

What is at stake in this election?

Weve never had a national election with so many controversies like this. Former president Jacob Zuma has broken off from the ANC and started the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. The ANC lost their effort in court to bar him from using this name, which is from a tagline long associated with the party.

Zuma has already done two terms as South Africas president and cannot legally become president a third time. He could potentially get a third term if his new political party wins, because he would be with a different party. Also, Zuma is facing a trial for corruption and was arrested previously, and they are trying to determine if that arrest would disqualify him from being president.

The potential for conflict is high no matter the results. Some candidates have threatened to drive the country into chaos if they dont win. There have also been a lot of political assassinations that have taken place over the years. In this context, we are training church leaders to work as conflict mediators and election workers for peace, with the understanding that anything imaginable can happen.

How do Christians tend to vote?

South African Christians are not a homogenous group. For instance, you have Christians in the ANC, the South African Communist Party, and the Pan Africanist Congress.

We have European churches and American-planted churches, but indigenous churches are the largest. They are Pentecostal and charismatic, with sometimes a mixture of African traditions and Christianity. Because of their sizeZion Christian Church has 12 million members and Shembe Church has between 5 to 6 millionthey tend to attract politicians seeking blessings and political support.

How many mediators have you trained?

In the past year, weve trained more than 1,300 church leaders, and in the last seven years, weve trained more than 3,000. Our dream is to train about 2,000 additional mediators, looking at specific provinces where the level of violence has been higher, such as KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape. The former president and the ANC are from KwaZulu Natal so the state KwaZulu is divided, because you now essentially have two ANC parties there.

SADRAs trained mediators have been hard at work in the election preparation process in all provinces. Mediators are helping to facilitate conversations between the IEC and community leaders. Specifically, in three communities, there would have been no election registration had SADRA mediators not intervened. In each community, mediators took a volatile situation with protesting residents and turned it around into a picturesque tapestry of peoples expression of their democratic right to register to vote.

What does mediation look like?

When officials from the IEC come into a community to prepare it for the election, local people can be hostile toward them, often frustrated because of a sense that the government isnt providing services. SADRA trains mediators to work with the IEC to deescalate tensions.

For example, IEC workers often visit a community and encourage people to register to vote. But because people are frustrated that the government hasnt provided them with services, they will block the commission from entering.

In these instances, the local mediators we have trained will meet with people on all opposing sides and work in the community to allow the IEC to enter peacefully. Allowing the electoral workers in could also be done with soldiers and police, but this method usually does not end well. It is not good to use the barrel of a gun to engage the democratic process.

Who supports SADRAs work?

Individuals, agencies, and overseas embassies contribute funds to the conflict resolution work that we do across southern African nations. African governments tend to watch closely who gives money to civil society organizations because of the issue of the West intervening in African politics. As much as we ask for help, individual local donors are also wary of giving money, as they dont want to be accused of interfering in politics.

How has doing peace work impacted your faith?

I initially worked at the Quaker Peace Centre, and it was during that time that I met some of the members of the Mennonite church. That sort of introduced me to a broader understanding of the theological aspects of peace-building because I was working in peace-building organizations, but not necessarily from a theological point of view.

For me, this work is about being reminded of the bigger task of the church in society. There are very big issues in society that the government must address, but cannot do so alone. The church also has this responsibility.

How can people outside of the country support peace efforts in South Africa?

We need people to come to South Africa and observe the elections. We also need international grantors who are able to make grants available to local organizations to form local observation teams. Even with everyone who is on the ground, including groups like the Carter Center, we are still short when it comes to election observation.

In the last election, we only had 12 percent (around 8,000) of the required 66,000 election observers at voting locations. Im hoping we could have 50 percent of those slots filled this year. These are the people who observe the count and keep the overall peace of the election environment. Its a lack of money and government commitment, as to why our nation does not have the number of people in place that we need.

Pray for peace before, during, and after the elections. We need a lot of prayer for the KwaZulu-Natal Province where a lot of violence has happened already, and more is expected as we get closer to election day.

What we desire as peace-builders is that there will be a free, fair election and outcome that can be accepted by the people of South Africa no matter who wins.
This week on The Bulletin, producer Clarissa Moll and Mike Cosper talk with therapist Sheila Wise Rowe and CTs Nicole Martin about the fourth anniversary of George Floyds death and how race relations have shifted since 2020. Foreign affairs analyst Hadeel Oueis joins the show to talk about the death of Irans president and its impact on the region. Wildlife biologist Will Miller drops by to chat about H5N1 bird flu, and Jessica Hooten Wilson shares why Flannery OConnor still matters as a new biopic about her life arrives in theaters.

Resources Mentioned:

Why African American History Matters

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Remembering Steve Albini

The Bulletin Episode 57: Thats Just, Like, Your Opinion, Man

Todays Guests:

Nicole Martin serves Christianity Today as chief impact officer after serving on its board of directors. Nicole oversees three major strategic initiatives that are shaping the future of CT including the Global Initiative, the Big Tent Initiative, and the Next Gen Initiative.

Sheila Wise Rowe is a graduate of Tufts University and Cambridge College with a masters degree in counseling psychology. She has over 30 years of experience as a Christian counselor, spiritual director, educator, writer, and speaker. Sheila has counseled women, children, couples, and emerging and established leaders. She has also taught counseling in Massachusetts; Paris, France, virtually; and for a decade in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she also ministered to homeless and abused women and children. Sheilas essays can be found in numerous blogs, newspapers, journals, and books. In 2020, she authored the award-winning book, Healing Racial Trauma: The Road to Resilience. Recently, she wrote Young, Gifted, and Black: A Journey of Lament and Celebration and has coauthored the soon-to-be released Healing Leadership Trauma.

Author and media personality Hadeel Oueis leads Arabic communications on behalf of The Center for Peace Communications. An advocate for liberal democracy in her native Syria during the historic uprising against Bashar al-Assad, she subsequently relocated to the United States and developed her career in Arab media as an analyst of American foreign policy. She serves as a reporter for the Saudi daily Al-Riyadh, and now hosts biweekly programs on two leading independent news networks in the region: Iraqs Al-Sharqiya and Yemens ATV. She appears frequently as a commentator on some of the regions largest indigenous outlets as well as the Arabic editions of the BBC, Deutsche Welle, and Al-Hurra. Oueis holds a BA in sociology from the University of Aleppo.

William Miller is a wildlife biologist and professor at Calvin University. His research interests include One Health, landscape ecology, and wildlife diseases.

Jessica Hooten Wilson is the Fletcher Jones Endowed Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University and previously served as the Seaver College Scholar of Liberal Arts at Pepperdine University. She cohosts a podcast with Claude Atcho and Austin Carty called The Scandal of Reading: Pursuing Holy Wisdom with Christ & Pop Culture. She is the author of Flannery OConnors Why Do the Heathen Rage?: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at a Work in Progress (Brazos Press), among other works.

The Bulletin is a production of Christianity Today Executive Producer: Erik Petrik Producers: Clarissa Moll and Matt Stevens Associate Producers: McKenzie Hill and Raed Gilliam Editing and Mix: TJ Hester Music: Dan Phelps Show Design: Bryan Todd Graphic Design: Amy Jones Social Media: Kate Lucky
Home News Anti-Catholic bigotry? Judicial nominee grilled by Senate Democrats over Knights of Columbus ties

Senate Democrats recently questioned a federal judicial nominee over his ties to the noted Catholic charity the Knights of Columbus, an act which some have described as anti-Catholic.

Brian C. Buescher, an Omaha-based lawyer, was nominated by President Donald Trump to sit on the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska.

Earlier this month, members of the Senate Judiciary Committee sent on-the-record questions to Buescher on a variety of issues.

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Senator Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii, the Senate's first Buddhist, took issue with the fact that Buescher had been a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1993, stating that she believed that the Catholic organization had taken a number of extreme positions.

For example, it was reportedly one of the top contributors to Californias Proposition 8 campaign to ban same-sex marriage, explained Hirono, referencing Californias 2008 referendum in which a majority of state voters passed an amendment to their state constitution defining marriage as being between a man and a woman.

If confirmed, do you intend to end your membership with this organization to avoid any appearance of bias?

Buescher responded that the Knights of Columbus are an international Catholic service organization and that he has not drafted any policies or positions for the national organization.

If confirmed, I will abide by the Code of Conduct of United States Judges and will not affiliate with any organization in violation of the Code, he added.

When Hirono asked Buescher if he will recuse himself from any cases tied to the Knights of Columbus, the nominee replied that the Catholic organization does not have the authority to take personal political positions on behalf of all of its approximately two million members.

Hirono also questioned whether Buescher can be expected to deal with reproductive rights and abortion issues fairly and impartially given his membership in this organization.

Senator Kamala D. Harris of California, a potential 2020 presidential candidate, also questioned the appointee over his ties to the Knights of Columbus, asking questions regarding the Catholic organizations stated opposition to abortion and gay marriage.

Were you aware that the Knights of Columbus opposed a womans right to choose when you joined the organization? Sen. Kamala asked. Were you aware that the Knights of Columbus opposed marriage equality when you joined the organization?

Kathleen Blomquist, spokesperson for the Knights of Columbus, denounced the line of written questions in an interview with the Catholic News Agency that was published last Friday.

Our countrys sad history of anti-Catholic bigotry contributed to the founding of the Knights of Columbus, and we are proud of the many Catholics who overcame this hurdle to contribute so greatly to our country, said Blomquist.

We were extremely disappointed to see that ones commitment to Catholic principles through membership in the Knights of Columbusa charitable organization that adheres to and promotes Catholic teachingswould be viewed as a disqualifier from public service in this day and age.

Also in response, Cardinal Patrick OBoyle of the Washington, DC Knights of Columbus sent an open letter to Harris, Hirono and their staff, inviting them to join in one of its charitable endeavors in order to learn more about the organization.

"We wish to formally invite you all to join us for any social or charitable event. In fact, this February we are doing the Polar Plunge to raise funds for DC Special Olympics. You and anyone you know are more than welcome to join us either jumping in the cold water or sponsoring our team," the letter stated in part.

In an op-ed for National Review, Ramesh Ponnuru urged Harris and Hirono to simply state the true intent of their questioning.

"Among the many stupidities of this campaign against the Knights is its superfluity. Buescher is voluntarily affiliated with two even larger organizations that are on record in opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage: the Catholic church; the Republican party. When running for attorney general of Nebraska in 2014, he called himself an avidly pro-life person. If Harris and Hirono want to maintain that all judicial nominees must support abortion, beyond just saying that they will respect existing law, then they should just say that there are scores of millions of Christians they would never allow on the federal bench on account of their beliefs. There is no need to launch an attack on the Knights," he wrote.

Senate Democrats were also accused of expressing an anti-Catholic bias during the confirmation hearing for Amy Coney Barrett, who now sits on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.

"I think in your case, professor, when you read your speeches, the conclusion one draws is that the dogma lives loudly within you, and that's of concern when you come to big issues that large numbers of people have fought for years in this country," Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., said in reference to Barrett's faith commitments.

Hirono followed Feinstein with a similar line of questioning, suggesting that Barrett's Catholic beliefs disqualified her.

Hirono also made controversial remarks amid the contentious hearings for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, now a Supreme Court judge.

Kavanaugh was accused of attempted rape. In an interview with CNN, Hirono suggested that his judicial philosophy made it more likely that he was guilty.

"I put his denial in the context of everything that I know about him in terms of how he approaches his cases," she said.
Home News National Park Service changes course, will allow Knights of Columbus Memorial Day Mass

The National Park Service will allow a chapter of the Catholic fraternal organization Knights of Columbus to host a Memorial Day service at a Virginia cemetery after initially prohibiting the gathering.

The First Liberty Institute and the international law firm McGuireWoods LLP released a statement Thursday announcing that NPS gave a permit for the Knights of Columbus Petersburg Council 694 to hold its annual Memorial Day Mass at the Poplar Grove National Cemetery in Petersburg.

"The Knights are thrilled that they will be able to exercise their religious beliefs and keep this honorable tradition alive. We appreciate the tremendous support of Governor Youngkin and Attorney General Miyares in this case," FLI Senior Counsel Roger Byron said in a statement.

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FLI and McGuireWoods filed a motion on Tuesday for a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction against NPS.

"Defendants are unlawfully refusing to allow the Knights to hold their traditional Memorial Day event in the Poplar Grove National Cemetery, as they have done for generations," claimed the filing.

"The Knights are likely to succeed on the merits of their claims, including that Defendants' refusal violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and the Free Exercise Clause of the U.S. Constitution; the Knights will suffer irreparable harm absent a TRO and preliminary injunction; and both the balance of equities and the public interest favor a TRO and preliminary injunction."

Last year, the chapter was told by the NPS that it could no longer hold a Mass at the cemetery on Memorial Day, which they had done since the 1960s.

At issue was Policy Memorandum 22-01, issued by NPS Director Charles Sams in August 2022. The policy restricts the circumstances in which special events can be held at national cemeteries.

"Activities that take place in national cemeteries are limited to those that are consistent with applicable legislation and that are compatible with maintaining the solemn commemorative and historic character of these areas," stated the memorandum in part.

"Many activities that may be appropriate and even facilitated or supported elsewhere in the National Park System are inappropriate in national cemeteries because of their protected atmosphere of peace, calm, tranquility, and reverence."

Virginia Attorney Gen. Jason Miyares filed an amicus brief Thursday supporting the Knights of Columbus chapter. Miyares, a Republican, called the Biden administration's actions a "blatant act of unlawful discrimination."

In a social media post Thursday, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin called Virginia "the birthplace of religious liberty" and applauded Miyares for "standing side by side with the @KofC to protect this important and worthy tradition."
Home News Nikki Haley says she is voting for Trump: 'Biden has been a catastrophe'

Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley says she plans to vote for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election months after she exited the race without endorsing him and as she continues to receive votes in Republican presidential primaries.

In remarks at the Washington-based conservative think tank Hudson Institute Wednesday, Haley responded to a question asking, "Who do you think would do a better job in the White House, Joe Biden or Donald Trump?"

"As a voter, I put my priorities on a president who's going to have the backs of our allies and hold our enemies to account, who would secure the border, no more excuses," she said.

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"I will be voting for Trump," she announced. "Having said that, I stand by what I said in my suspension speech. Trump would be smart to reach out to the millions of people who voted for me and continue to support me and not assume that they're just going to be with him and I genuinely hope he does that."

Haley painted her preferred candidate as "a president who would support capitalism and freedom" and "a president who understands we need less debt, not more debt." While acknowledging that "Trump has not been perfect on these policies," she asserted that "Biden has been a catastrophe."

Haley's comments at the Hudson Institute marked her first public speech in her new role as the Walter P. Stern Chair at the think tank. Haley's work at the organization focuses on national security and defense, foreign policy, economics and human rights.

Haley, the former governor of South Carolina and former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, continues to receive a significant share of votes in the Republican presidential primaries despite having exited the race.

Statistics compiled by The Green Papers, which tracks the results of presidential primaries and caucuses, show that she has received 20.42% of the popular vote in the contests held as of Thursday and amassed several dozen delegates.

However, Haley's performance in the primaries is nowhere near enough to threaten Trump's grip on the Republican nomination. He has received more than 75% of the popular vote and accumulated more than 2,100 of the 2,429 delegates up for grabs at the Republican National Convention.

Haley dropped out of the race on March 6, one day after the Super Tuesday contests that featured the highest number of states holding presidential primaries or caucuses than any other night. She initially declined to endorse Trump and instead urged him to reach out to the "large bloc of Republican primary voters who are expressing concerns" about him.

Haley was one of several candidates who sought the Republican nomination for president before dropping out due to Trump's dominance in primary polling and the primaries themselves. While many former Republican candidates, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, radio talk show host Larry Elder and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, have endorsed Trump, former Vice President Mike Pence has declined to do so.

Additionally, a handful of Democrats sought to challenge President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination for president, and all but one have suspended their campaigns. Currently, the major candidates remaining in the 2024 presidential election are Trump, Biden, independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., independent candidate Cornel West and potential Green Party nominee Jill Stein.

The RealClearPolitics average of polls taken between April 18 and May 20, measuring Americans' opinions on the 2024 presidential election, shows Trump leading Biden by 0.9 percentage points. That lead increases to 2.2% when looking at polls taken from April 22 to May 21 that include Kennedy, West and Stein as possible options.

Data gathered by RealClearPolitics based on polls taken between April 18 and May 21 shows that just 40.5% of Americans approve of Biden's job performance as president compared to 56.6% who disapprove.

Similarly, an average of polls taken between March 27 and May 21 asking Americans for their thoughts on Trump shows that 42.9% of Americans have a favorable opinion of him, while 53.9% have an unfavorable opinion of the former president.
Home News Ohio Supreme Court refuses to lift block on law banning trans surgeries for minors

Ohio's Supreme Court denied the state's request to lift a block on a law banning minors with gender dysphoria from obtaining sex change surgeries and puberty-blocking drugs, in addition to preventing males who identify as female from competing in women's sports.

The ruling, released Wednesday, means that the enforcement of House Bill 68 remains on hold amid ongoing litigation surrounding the legislation.

Republican Justice Pat DeWine agreed with the decision to deny lifting the block on the bill but stated, "this case raises an important issue: Is it appropriate for one judge in a single county to issue a statewide injunction that goes beyond what is necessary to provide interim relief to the parties in the case?"

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Republican Justices Pat Fischer and Joe Deters concurred with DeWine's opinion. Democratic Justice Jennifer Brunner concurred, asserting that "the state has failed to make the necessary showing to obtain a writ of mandamus or prohibition."

Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy agreed with part of the opinion, but she "would grant the emergency motion and issue an alternative writ."

Republican lawmakers passed House Bill 68 last year, with the Ohio Senate later voting 24-8 to override Gov. Mike DeWine's veto of the bill. On March 26, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit challenging the law's enactment. The ACLU filed the lawsuit on behalf of two families with 12-year-old girls suffering from gender dysphoria, arguing that the bill would "ban critically important treatment."

Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael Holbrook issued a temporary restraining order against House Bill 68 on April 16. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost filed an emergency motion on April 22 with the state supreme court to stop the restraining order.

Yost contends that statewide injunctions are "rare" and that a single judge representing one county should not be able to make a decision that impacts the entire state, stressing a single judge "cannot wield more power than a Governor's veto."

"That extraordinary abuse of judicial power is paired here with an extraordinary need for speed. Starting April 24, the Law would have protected female athletes from the risk to their safety, the affront to their privacy, and the sting to their dignity that the legislature believed would flow from allowing male athletes to annex their playing fields and locker rooms," Yost wrote.

"Also starting April 24, parents whose consciences would not allow them to participate in transitioning their children to the opposite gender would have been protected from discrimination in judicial proceedings to adjudicate custody," he continued. "Finally, starting April 24, children whose lives may have been forever altered by surgery or cross hormone drugs would have been shielded from those forever decisions until they reach adulthood, when the Law determines they are capable enough to decide for themselves."

Detransitioners like Chloe Cole have warned about the side effects that result from being allowed to transition at a young age. In a lawsuit Cole filed last year against Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, the Permanente Medical Group and affiliated healthcare professionals, the detransitioner accused the medical groups of performing a "mutilating, mimicry sex change experiment" on her when she was only a teen.

Medical professionals encouraged Cole to undergo a double mastectomy, and she was also prescribed opposite-sex hormones before deciding to detransition.

"My body has been irreversibly damaged, and years later, my chest is still in bandages. My doctors have abandoned me. New doctors look and shrug. As a result, I am suing those professionals who steered me into taking these destructive steps that have permanently scarred me," Cole said during a Disney shareholders meeting last month.
Jen Rice is a reporter for the Houston Chronicle covering Harris County government. She can be reached at jen.rice@houstonchronicle.com.

A native Houstonian, Jen graduated from Barnard College at Columbia University and earned a master's degree from University of Texas at Austin's LBJ School of Public Affairs.

Before coming to the Chronicle, Jen spent three years covering City Hall for Houston's NPR station. Her reporting has aired nationally on NPR's Morning Edition, All Things Considered and Here & Now.
Home News Turning to Almighty God: 5 profound Memorial Day proclamations

Memorial Day is an annual federal observance that honors those in the U.S. military who have passed away and a day for Americans to spend time praying for "permanent peace."

The holiday was observed in the 19th century under the name Decoration Day," which sought to honor the memory of soldiers who died in the American Civil War.

Later on, the observance was broadened to include Americans killed in all armed conflicts, with parades, barbeques and other festivities being connected to the holiday.

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As part of the observance, presidents of the United States have issued proclamations calling upon Americans to not only remember the fallen but also pray for lasting peace. Many presidents over the years have set aside a specific time in the day for Americans to pray for peace.

President Joe Biden continued the tradition, issuing a proclamation urging Americans on Monday to "designate the hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. ... as a time when people might unite in prayer and reflection."

The following pages highlight five notable presidential Memorial Day proclamations calling for national prayer signed by presidents of both major political parties.
Home News Sadie Robertson Huff on overcoming her exposure to porn: Freedom on the other side

Christian reality star Sadie Robertson Huff of "Duck Dynasty" fame detailed in a recent podcast that she overcame porn exposure as a teenager, encouraging viewers that there is freedom on the other side of confession.

In the Wednesday episode of her "Whoa That's Good" podcast, Huff was joined by a digital influencer, author and podcaster Jeanine Amapola. Both women shared how they were unintentionally exposed to pornography during their teenage years and how they overcame that exposure through confession and accountability.

"I've never actually shared this part of my story in this detail.  I'm on Twitter one day, not seeking this out at all, didn't type in anything. It was straight up a porn ad, and it was extremely graphic and intense. And instead of continuing to scroll, I clicked on it. And it was kind of a toxic cycle in just a day," Huff said.

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"I didn't even know what the word masturbation meant," she added. "I remember being at a camp in middle school, people coming and getting forgiveness for that. I didn't even know what that was. So here I am in high school, accidentally and doing something I don't even really know what it is, and then just feeling like an incredible wave of shame from that moment on and knowing that I cannot tell anybody about this kind of thing."

She said she was "able to stop that" and did not become addicted.

"But even not becoming addicted, I lived with so much shame from even just that experience and then hid it for so long," she continued. "I remember telling [my husband] Christian about that at one point whenever we were married and feeling so much freedom because he was so honest with his story always. He helped so many people through that."

Robertson Huff said she was afraid of what her husband's reaction was going to be.

"He was like, 'Man, I feel I can relate to you so much more now to know that you are human, too,'" she recalled. "That was part of our past sin but something we have been free of from the blood of Jesus."

She said she kept it hidden for long because she was fearful of what others might think, such as "that's gross" or "girls don't do this."

"But that was such a naive thought because actually, a ton of girls struggle with this," she continued, telling her female listeners, "There is freedom for you on the other side of confession and accountability and having people and things help you come out of that."

"Don't stay in that forever," she urged. "That is not a way to live a happy and healthy life. It's not a way to live a full life. It's not a way to live a life of freedom."

For Amapola, she said her exposure to porn happened when she was at a hotel in high school.

"In high school, I was actually exposed to pornography at a very young age. It was not something I sought out. I was at a hotel with my childhood best friend and my two sisters, and we're just casually flipping through the channels, and full on pornography was on the TV," Amapola shared.

"I remember just like, 'Oh my gosh,' like I didn't even know what to do. I was like, 'Do I look, do I not,' and it was like the scariest moment in my life because my parents actually never fully gave me the birds and the bees conversation. I didn't know what was going on."

Amapola said her exposure led to an addiction to porn.

"The devil took this one literal like five-second moment and used this as a seed in my life of lust and opening doors to this, and so I began to be addicted to pornography. And I also struggled with masturbation," Amapola recounted.

"These were two things that I kept in the darkness for so many years. I remember feeling like it was literally these chains just dragging behind me everywhere I went. It prevented me from looking people fully in the eyes because when you carry sin and shame, it causes you to hide and to feel shame, just like Adam and Eve. And so, I didn't even want to look people in the eyes," she continued.

"I felt like it was just written on my forehead like I'm addicted to pornography and masturbation."

It wasn't until Amapola attended a youth camp called Youth for the Nations at Christ for the Nations church that she began to start addressing her addiction to porn.

"At one point in the service, someone comes up on stage, and they say, 'Hey, I just feel really compelled to do this. I feel compelled to do an altar call.' And he said, 'I feel like there's people in here that have been carrying a secret for too long. And it's something that you need to release, and you're going to break free of that tonight.' He's like, 'If that's you, I want you to come forward and no longer hide. Bring it into the light,'" Amapola recalled.

"I was like, 'I'm just going to do it. So I just break free out of the chairs. And I start pushing past all these people. I run down to the front.  And I get down to the front  I'm just like, 'I have to confess this.' And there's people up there, and I tell her, and I think it's like the scariest thing I've ever done. She doesn't even blink. She doesn't even react. She's not even like: 'How dare you,' like you think that they're going to say [this]. She's like, amazing. 'Thank you for telling me. You know what? God's going to set you free tonight,'" she added.

"She begins to pray this powerful prayer over me. I confessed it. I literally said: 'Pornography masturbation, you have no hold over me.' And I said it over and over and over. And I kid you not, from that day, that desire left. I mean, by the grace of God, it left me, and it never came back, specifically pornography."

Huff and Amapola said that one of the most crucial things someone can do for those who confess to having struggles with pornography is respond to them with mercy and grace and a verse from Romans 8: "There therefore is no condemnation for those who are found in Christ's Jesus."

"I would say I never went back [to porn], and I just praise God for just giving me the ability to confess that sin.  In confession, you find freedom. When you are vulnerable, you're honest. You have accountability, consistency, confession. Those are five ways you will stay free and so that moment marks my life forever. It's a moment where I'm like, 'I could never deny God because I know He's so real from that moment," Amapola said.

"I think so many times the fear of confession is that you're going to be met with a lack of empathy, with judgment, with more shame than you already feel. And that is a really scary thing. It's a very vulnerable thing because if you do confess and you aren't met with that love and the no condemnation, then it can cause a deeper hole," Huff added.
Home News Second pastor at Living Word Church charged with sex crimes

A pastor of Living Word Church in Midland, Michigan, has been charged with committing sex crimes, becoming the second clergyman and third leader from the church to be arrested on such accusations in recent months.

Randy Saylor, a 71-year-old associate pastor, was arraigned Wednesday on charges of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a person younger than 13, and second-degree criminal sexual conduct. His crimes allegedly occurred in 2018.

Living Word Church has suspended Saylor from all his duties while the criminal investigation is underway, according to The Roys Report.

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Living Word Church Administrator William Bailey said in a statement to the Midland Daily News that the congregation was deeply saddened and concerned about the situation.

It has come to our attention that Randy Saylor, a member of our pastoral team, is under investigation for allegations of sexual abuse, Bailey stated.

There are no allegations that the abuse took place at the church or involved the church in any way. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities in their investigation. Randy has been suspended from all duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

Bailey admitted that Saylors arrest was not the first time our church has faced such a situation, and we acknowledge the pain and trauma this causes to those directly affected, as well as our entire community.

In late November of last year, the Rev. James Randolph, a minister with Living Word Church, was charged with multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct, including one that allegedly involved a minor younger than 13.

Randolph is the son-in-law of televangelist Mark Barclay, the leader of Mark Barclay Ministries and the founding pastor of Living Word Church.

In a statement to The Christian Post last year, Josh Barclay, Mark Barclays son who also works with the ministry, said Randolph was placed on administrative leave "pending the results of the criminal justice process."

We are aware of the arrest of James Randolph, one of our ministers on staff, and the allegations against him, stated Josh Barclay at the time. Importantly, the allegations do not involve the church, and the alleged acts did not take place in the church.

Last month, Brandon Saylor, the 44-year-old son of Randy Saylor, who was a former church volunteer and leader, was sentenced to serve up to 15 years in prison on three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a child younger than 13, reported the Saginaw, Michigan-based WNEM.

Brandon Saylor was resentenced earlier this month and required to maintain electronic monitoring for the Sex Offenders Registration Act for the remainder of his life, according to WNEM.
Home News Ted Cruz torches Biden judicial nominee for recommending male rapist in women's prison 'I would say the entire justice system is absurd'

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, blasted a Biden judicial nominee on Wednesday for recommending that a trans-identifying man should be housed in a women's prison despite pleading guilty to child pornography and rape.

During her back-and-forth with Cruz at a contentious Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn defended her Aug. 3, 2022, recommendation that William McClain, who identifies as a woman and has assumed the name July Justine Shelby, should be allowed to live with female inmates in a federal prison for medical reasons.

Absolute FIRE line of questioning from @SenTedCruz today ???????????? bravo!



"Do they have the right to not have a 6'2" man who is a repeat serial rapist put in as their cell mate?" pic.twitter.com/TSzIMjdmmi Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe May 23, 2024

Netburn, whom President Joe Biden nominated to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, claimed in the face of questioning about the case from both Cruz and Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., that she "[considered] the facts presented to me, and I reached a decision," adding that inmates have the right "to be safe in their space."

McClain was jailed at the Federal Correctional Institution in Otisville, New York, after being convicted of molesting a 9-year-old boy and raping a 17-year-old girl, as well as for disseminating violent child pornography, as Cruz noted.

Cruz, who emphasized that McClain stands 6-foot-2 and possesses male genitalia, probed Netburn regarding why she would find it acceptable that the admitted serial rapist and child pornographer be incarcerated with women.

"A minute ago, you said that when this man decided that he was a she, that you said this individual was, quote  I wrote it down  'sober and entirely a female,'" Cruz said. "That phrase struck me as remarkable. Did this individual have male genitalia?"

"Sorry, what I meant to say was hormonally a female," Netburn responded before acknowledging that McClain has all the trappings of a man.

"So, you took a 6-foot-2 serial rapist, serial child rapist with male genitalia, and he said, 'You know, I'd like to be in a women's prison.' And your answer was, 'That sounds great to me,'" Cruz said.

"Let me ask you something: the other women in that prison, do they have any rights?" Cruz asked.

Claiming that the idea a baby is "assigned a gender" at birth "would astonish a lot of Americans," Cruz also snarked that Netburn is a Brown University graduate, and that her apparent belief "sounds like it's in a college faculty lounge with no bearing on reality."

Cruz summarized Netburn's ruling as evidence that she did not care about the women who would potentially be put at risk by being housed with a male serial rapist.

Netburn maintained her repeated answer that she ruled based on the facts presented to her, prompting Cruz to claim she is "a radical" who has "no business being a judge."

"I have to say, if I were the father of one of those women, and you decided that my daughter's cellmate was going to be a 6-foot-2 man who over and over and over again committed violent sexual assault, I would say the entire justice system is absurd. And it is clear on your record your political ideology matters a heck of a lot more than the rights of those women that you endangered."

Cruz echoed Kennedy, who earlier grilled Netburn over the McClain case during the hearing.

"Miss Shelby said, 'I don't want to go to a male prison, I want to go to a female prison,'" Kennedy said. "And the Board of Prisons said, 'What planet did you parachute in from? You're going to a male prison with this kind of record?' And you sent him to a female prison, didn't you? You said that the Board of Prisons was trying to violate Ms. Shelby  former Mr. McClain's  constitutional right, didn't you?"

Kennedy: "You're really a political activist, aren't you?"



Netburn: "I'm not, sir"



Kennedy: "Your record demonstrates otherwise."



???????????? @SenJohnKennedy



This judge belongs nowhere NEAR a courtroom. pic.twitter.com/I4HEpuE0Aj  Riley Gaines (@Riley_Gaines_) May 23, 2024

Kennedy suggested that despite her claims that she is not a political activist, her judicial record indicates otherwise.

Footage of the exchange between Netburn and Cruz tweeted out by swimmer Riley Gaines garnered tens of millions as of Thursday.
Fortune 500 Companies Embrace Religion, Baptist Pastor Charged With Obstructing DOJ, 12,000 Baptized In California

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:41 06:41

Top headlines for Friday, May 24, 2024

In this episode, a new report revealing the top Fortune 500 companies committed to religious and belief diversity. We also explore the candid revelations from Christian influencer couple Sam and Nia Rader in the Netflix series Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal, discussing the aftermath of the 2015 hack.

Additionally, we cover the Department of Justice's charges against former Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary professor Matthew Queen for falsifying records in the Southern Baptist Convention investigation. Finally, we discuss the backlash from political leaders and influential voices in response to recent actions by the United Nations and the U.S. State Department.
Home Opinion Is the Electoral College 'un-American?'

Last week, Joy Behar of The View on ABC called the Electoral College un-American.

Oh my. Perhaps we could call her an Electoral College dropout?

The Constitution says that We the people are in charge of our country, but we act through our elected representatives. The provision for the Electoral College can be found in the Constitution in Article II, Section 1, Clause 2. Its in Americas foundational document  despite Joy Behars claim that its un-American. The gist of it is that we dont directly elect the president, but we do vote for those who do so. The Constitution provides a layer of protection  to spare us from would-be dictators.

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I once produced a short video segment for Providence Forum called, A Republic, Not a Democracy. It includes comments on the Electoral College.

In that video, the late Dr. Walter Williams, who had been a long-time professor at George Mason University, noted: The founders of our country did not intend for us to be a democracy or a majority rule, because the founders held democracy in utter contempt. They feared the idea of majority rule.

So, said Dr. Williams, they came up with the Electoral College as a way of electing the president, because if we did not have an Electoral College, then big states  highly populated states like California and New York and Florida  would decide whos the president. Very few presidential candidates would campaign in Wyoming or Idaho, because the population is very small. They would put all their resources in the heavily populated states, and the founders were trying to, in their brilliance, they were trying to prevent that.

We seem to forget these days that the states created the federal government, and not the other way around. The Electoral College is a way to let the little states have a say, as well as the big states. Because candidates have to win not just the majority vote, but the majority of the Electoral College votes, they cannot simply focus their presidential campaigns on population centers like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. They must also appeal to voters in less populous states to amass those electoral votes. If there were no Electoral College, states like Idaho, West Virginia, and either of the Dakotas might never be visited by a presidential candidate again.

For our video, I also interviewed Dennis Prager of PragerU, and he put it this way: The Electoral College was a brilliant innovation of the founders, because they didnt want a democracy, they wanted a republic.

He noted, The founders, being wise, understood people are not basically good. You cant be wise if you think human nature is good. So, they understood they have to have as many checks and balances on human power as possible. That is why we have three branches of the government to be a check on one another. They didnt trust human beings, and correctly so.

And all of this bears directly on the Electoral College issue, notes Prager: So, they understood that a simple direct election could easily end up with some demagogue getting a majority of the popular vote. So, theres a check on the popular vote by the states, and thats why they have the Electoral College. The popular vote is important, but it is not the only decisive thing. It was genius. If we get rid of the Electoral College, its the beginning of the end of America as it has been constituted.

Speaking of Prager, one of the popular PragerU videos featured Constitutional scholar Tara Ross on this very issue. She is the author of The Indispensable Electoral College: How the Founders Plan Saves Our Country from Mob Rule and Enlightened Democracy: The Case for the Electoral College.

Having interviewed her on the radio before, I asked her for any comment to the idea of the Electoral College as supposedly being un-American.

She told me:

The Electoral College is directly established by our Constitution and reflects the most basic principles of Americas founding charter. If the Electoral College is un-American, then so is every other constitutional institution. Our Constitution creates a government that is a blend of democracy (self-governance), republicanism (deliberation & compromise), and federalism (national vs. state authority) because our Founders sought to ensure that the American government reflects all voices, despite our diversity and despite the varying sizes of our states.

And Ross added, The Electoral College is a reflection of these principles and simply ensures that large states and urban areas dont tyrannize the rest of the country when it comes to selection of the President. Calling the Electoral College un-American is nonsensical. If anything, the Electoral College is uniquely American.

It would seem to me that people like Joy Behar have the opportunity to voice their opinions, no matter how seemingly inane, precisely because of the governmental structure the founders of America so cleverly laid for us as one nation under God.
Home Opinion The Christians duty in a revolutionary age (part 2)

Last week we summarized the extraordinary, unprecedented and cultural, philosophical, and theological overturn of Western Civilizations basic foundational values in a breathtakingly rapid period of time.

More and more Americans of sufficient age (old enough to have some memory of the 1960s) increasingly realize that far too many Americans have taken a wrong turn and it has devastated our entire culture. Instead of heeding Gods laws (the Decalogue) and shouldering our responsibilities and fulfilling our obligations, they have allowed liberty to descend into mere license, focused entirely on rights and privileges. The American landscape is littered with the real and virtual corpses of the resulting victimschildren, spouses, parents, neighbors, etc.

More and more Americans also sense that American culture is reaching a critical moment, a fork in the road moment, when a culture takes a direction from which it is difficult, if not virtually impossible, to retrace and rectify.

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In the 2008 election cycle, former President Obama traveled the country proclaiming that he wanted to remake America. His opponents responded with their desire to restore America, addressing her shortcomings, but maintaining her basic foundations.

The eight years of the Obama presidency demonstrated that he was not speaking rhetorically, but quite literally in his intentions. I have been asked many times, how do you explain the unprecedented phenomenon of Donald Trump as a successful presidential candidate? My answer, Barack Obama! President Obama fomented so much change at so radical a pace, President Trump was the living, breathing backlash! Without Barack Obama there never would have been a President Trump.

Couple that with President Bidens extremely liberal governmental programs (perhaps the most liberal president in American history) and you have the extremely volatile political and social culture storm that Americans find themselves currently experiencing.

As Christians, it is imperative that we start with a renewed and deeper understanding that the Kingdom of God embraces every aspect of life: ethical, spiritual, and temporal.[1] We must recover a comprehensive understanding of Christian truth and its applicability to every area of life.

As born-again believers, we must allow the Holy Spirit to disciple us into the spiritual reality that Jesus has commanded us as believers to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matt. 5:13-16).

As salt we must be a moral preservative against the decay of sin, the corrupting influence of the prince of darkness. As light, we are to be used to penetrate the darkness, to light the way to life and purpose. There is no room in being obedient to the command of our Savior for withdrawal from engagement with the culture. The obedient Christian must be in the world (salt must make contact with what it preserves or purifies) and light which is to shine before men, but not of the world (James 1:27).

Whatever the issue at hand, sexuality, the sanctity of human life, racism, marriage, human freedom, etc., we as Christians must strive to have what Helmut Thielicke, a theologian from an earlier generation called simultaneity. In other words, to be faithful to our Lords mandate, it must never be either/or, but always both/andsalt and light.

Let us all resolve to follow our Saviors example and be about our Heavenly Fathers business. As changed people, let us help other changed people change the world. And when distractions tempt us, remember that though

The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep.

[1] Charles Colson, Kingdoms in Conflict (Grand Rapids; Zondervan, 1987) 86-87.

[2] Robert Frost, Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening.
Home Opinion Why Piers Morgan doesn't need 'Catholic guilt'

Piers Morgan is a well-known journalist and television personality who has spoken openly about his Catholic upbringing. "I don't go to confession, probably because it would take me too long." He said "there is not a lot" he feels guilty about. Morgan certainly doesn't seem to suffer from Catholic guilt, which has been defined as "excess guilt felt by Catholics and lapsed Catholics."

Madeleine Burgess penned an article titled, "Catholic Guilt is Complicated," in which she explains what she believes it takes to be "a certified Catholic." She wrote, "I've only occasionally believed in God and I wouldn't consider myself a religious person. Despite this, I've been baptized, had Communion, and been confirmed  meaning I'm a certified Catholic ... I go to church twice a year, on Easter and Christmas, to make my grandmother happy."

Catholic guilt tends to be rooted in compulsory religious rituals. Stressing over religious externals is a far cry from understanding the Gospel and having a warm personal relationship with the Lord. The only way to be delivered from Catholic guilt is to bring your sins directly to Jesus. You simply ask God to forgive you as you turn away from sin in sincere repentance, which I explained in my CP op-ed, "Going to Confession' Must Include Repentance and Renunciation of Sin."

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Sadly, no one benefits from Catholic guilt. It does not come from the Holy Spirit and does not lead to righteous living. It merely bogs a person down in either works righteousness or spiritual apathy. God works in a person's heart to produce the appropriate kind of guilt necessary to be saved. Jesus said, "When the Holy Spirit comes, He will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment" (John 16:8).

One of the many wonderful things about having a relationship with God is that the Lord actually takes up residence within you. The Apostle Paul wrote, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).

The sad reality is that Catholic guilt can actually prevent a person from being born again. Jumping through religious hoops never fixes the problem. We desperately need God to do a deep work within us bringing us to repentance and faith.

The Holy Spirit convicts believers when we sin with our thoughts, words, or deeds. And since every Christian is born again, we also experience the joy of having our sin and shame removed by God's grace. When we confess our sins to the Lord, we receive God's healing power and forgiveness within our souls. Nothing in all the world is more liberating!

There are many people who engage in religious rituals but have not yet received Jesus by faith. The Apostle John wrote, "Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12).

Believers experience the Holy Spirit convicting us of sin, and the grace of God teaching us to live a godly life (see Titus 2:11-12) and to keep short accounts with the Lord. But the comfort of the Holy Spirit is only applied to our soul when we confess our sins to God and rely upon Christ's sacrifice on the cross to remove our sins and our shame. The cleansing power of Jesus' blood is by far the greatest power in the entire universe.

You might remember Donald Trump's comments in 2015 when asked if he had ever asked God for forgiveness. "I am not sure I have. I just go on and try to do a better job from there. I don't think so. I think if I do something wrong, I think, I just try and make it right. I don't bring God into that picture. I don't."

What about you? Do you bring God into the picture when you sin? Have you been able to get beyond religious guilt? Piers Morgan doesn't need Catholic guilt any more than you need Protestant guilt. But we all need the Holy Spirit to convict us of our sins, leading to repentance and faith in Christ. Apart from faith in Jesus, a person remains lost in sin and separated from God forever.

There are plenty of people in Hell today who experienced religious guilt during their life on Earth, but who were never born again through faith in Christ. They wrongly assumed that their noble efforts would cancel out their sins. What about you? What are you relying upon in order to be saved from sin, death and Hell?

You will know you have experienced the necessary spiritual breakthrough once you begin trusting in Christ's death on the cross 2,000 years ago as your sole source of forgiveness and your guarantee of eternal life in Heaven. After you are spiritually converted, you will no longer rely upon your religious rituals and good works to get into Heaven. Do you understand why even a lifetime of good works does not wash away a single sin?

Piers Morgan once said, "I want to interview the most important people in the world and have everyone in America the next day saying, 'Did you see that?'" But what will Piers have to say after he has conducted his final interview and is brought before the Lord to be interviewed by God on Judgment Day? And what will you and I have to say on that glorious and dreadful day?

The Christian rock band Third Day released a song in 2011 titled, "Trust in Jesus." The lyrics pose this crucial question:

"What are you going to do when your time has come? And your life is done and there's nothing you can stand on What will you have to say at the judgment throne? I already know the only thing I can say I trust in Jesus, My great deliverer, My strong defender."

Do you trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of your sins and eternal salvation? Are you a follower of Christ? If not, I sure hope you will come to Christ today and receive the free gift of everlasting life in Heaven.
A priest's kidnapping in South Sudan heightens fear among clergy in the country

The recent mysterious disappearance of the Rev. Luke Yugue and his driver, Michael Gbeko, in South Sudan has left many Christians in the central African country worried about their safety and afraid to carry out ministry work across the troubled nation.

The two are believed to have been kidnapped by ethnic militia forces on April 27 while traveling by road on a motorbike from the Nagero Catholic parish to Tombura county in the state of Western Equatoria, bordering the Central African Republic and Congo.

Religious leaders, especially those from the Catholic Church, have been urging congregants across the country of more than 12.7 million people, about 61% of them Christian, to pray for the safety of the missing priest and his driver. The leaders have also been desperately appealing to the government to aid in the release of the two, who are believed to be held hostage, and to declare a state of emergency in the region where the kidnapping occurred.

The recent mysterious disappearance of the Rev. Luke Yugue and his driver, Michael Gbeko, in South Sudan has left many Christians in the central African country worried about their safety and afraid to carry out ministry work across the troubled nation.

The two are believed to have been kidnapped by ethnic militia forces on April 27 while traveling by road on a motorbike from the Nagero Catholic parish to Tombura county in the state of Western Equatoria, bordering the Central African Republic and Congo.

Religious leaders, especially those from the Catholic Church, have been urging congregants across the country of more than 12.7 million people, about 61% of them Christian, to pray for the safety of the missing priest and his driver. The leaders have also been desperately appealing to the government to aid in the release of the two, who are believed to be held hostage, and to declare a state of emergency in the region where the kidnapping occurred.

The country descended into civil war in December 2013, when Kiir accused his former deputy Riek Machar and 10 others of attempting a coup. Even though the conflict ended with a 2018 peace agreement that brought Kiir and Machar together, the country continues to see widespread fighting and kidnappings, especially in rural areas.

Between 2013 and 2018, reports indicate, nearly 400,000 people were killed as a result of the civil war. The conflict also left over 4 million South Sudanese displaced from their homes, with nearly 2.3 million fleeing to neighboring countries, including Uganda and Kenya.

Dozens of church leaders have been kidnapped or killed by government soldiers or rebels in the decade of fighting. The majority of them were kidnapped or killed while carrying out pastoral duties across the world's youngest nation.

Evangelist Mayol Kuot noted that the recent disappearance of religious leaders highlights the ongoing instability in the country and disrupts their ability to provide spiritual guidance, counseling, health care, education and other assistance to the populace, as well as care for orphans and children.

"The recent kidnapping of the priest is shocking to us. It shows that the security situation in the country is not improving at all," said Kuot, who ministers in Malakal, a town in northeastern South Sudan. "We are now afraid of going out in remote areas to preach the Word of God and serve vulnerable people who want our help as religious leaders."

Kuot said he has had friends who were murdered or kidnapped by unknown gunmen in road ambushes and churches while ministering. This causes other clergy in the country to be "demoralized," he said, and unable to continue working freely due to fear of attacks.

"You can't effectively work in such an environment when you are unsure if you will return home safe after ministering to people," Kuot said. "We need protection from the government to continue ministering to the suffering people of South Sudan who have been displaced from their homes due to war."

The Rev. Thomas Agou Kuur said dozens of his colleagues from the Episcopal Church have lost their lives since the civil war began in the country. Kuur, who is the assistant bishop of Bor Diocese, said that the people of South Sudan, especially militia groups, don't respect church leaders and instead kill them based on ethnicity.

The Dinka and Nuer are the two largest ethnic groups in South Sudan, and they have been fighting each other for political and economic power since even before the civil war. The Dinka ethnic group generally supports Kiir, while the Nuer ethnic group backs Machar.

"When militias from Dinka get a priest from the Nuer tribe, they will just kill him without considering that he is a priest serving everyone. It's the same situation when militias from Nuer get a Dinka priest," he said.

"We should care and love each other because we all belong to God, and therefore, we should respect human life," Kuur added.

Meanwhile, Kussala, the bishop of Tombura-Yambio, urged communities and political leaders to reconcile their differences and pursue peace, justice and reconciliation for the sake of the suffering people of South Sudan.

"I want to appeal for an end to violence in the country because it's destroying our lives and livelihoods daily," he said, pointing out tribalism and hatred as the main enemy of South Sudanese. "As a church, we will continue to walk the path of peace and to reach out to the vulnerable who want our help. We urge the government to protect the country from violence and church leaders as they carry out their ministries."

 Religion News Service
The mastermind behind the AI deepfake voice of President Joe Biden in New Hampshire last January is facing federal fines that could go up to $6 million.

The Federal Communication Commission proposed on Friday the penalty fine after a New Hampshire attorney general indicted political adviser Steven Kramer on 26 charges of felony and misdemeanor for using "scam calls he set up to defraud voters."

The $6 million penalty will be in addition to the proposed $2 million fine against Lingo Telecom, the robocall operator Kramer commissioned to distribute the robocalls to 5,000 registered New Hampshire residents.

Kramer admittedly paid $500 to spread AI-charged robocalls of Biden telling voters to not attend the Democrat's first primary supposedly as a way to emphasize the need for AI rules.

It is worth noting that Kramer was previously affiliated with another presidential candidate Rep. Dean Phillips, who later denounced the advisor's actions and severed any official connections with him.

Despite the claimed good intentions, Kramer's actions violated several transmission rules in the federal ID Law. Kramer is set to make his initial court appearance on June 14, at the Merrimack Superior Court.

NBC News first reported the proposed penalty.

Also Read : Deepfake Audio of Biden Supposed to Highlight Need for AI Rules, Robocall Mastermind Says

Penalties on Biden Deepfakes Remain Uncertain Amid Lacking AI Rules

While both Kramer and Lingo may face millions of dollars worth of lawsuits, the charges against them hinge on federal violations of defrauding voters rather than the direct use of AI to spread political disinformation.

Being the first caught in the act, litigators are having a hard time pushing more serious charges against the two due to the lack of federal laws on AI.

It can be remembered that Biden only issued an executive order to form a proposed AI regulation law last October, a plan that remains in deliberation as of writing.

The FCC has earlier prohibited the use of AI-generated voices in spam and robocalls following the incident with more Democrat-backed legislation being pushed in Congress.

Related Article : FCC Outlaws AI-Generated Voices in Robocalls

AI Deepfakes Feared to Further Spread as Voting Polls Near

With no laws prohibiting the use of AI in political campaigns, experts are worried that a surge in AI-fueled disinformation may wreak havoc online in the coming months, much worse than the "fake news" epidemic in the 2016 US Elections.

It does not help that the FCC is currently looking to integrate generative AI into political ads before the election period in November.

Several digital advocacy groups and American voters have already objected to the proposition amid concerns for platform issues that would only enable this type of political disinformation.
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

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The "right to disconnect" movement is gaining traction worldwide, with several countries joining the Canadian province of Ontario to enact laws allowing employees to disconnect outside of working hours. However, is legally banning after-hours communication the best solution, or is there a more effective way to transform a work culture that expects employees to be available and responsive at all times?

According to INSEAD professors, true change requires a cultural shift within companies, and employees, managers, and leaders can dismantle the mentality of being "always on" at work.

Shifting into An Ideal "Workplace Culture"

Winnie Jiang, Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour, explains that after-hours communications, like work emails and texts, can prevent employees from detaching, leading to work-family conflicts and emotional exhaustion. This is particularly true for those high in "telepressure," who feel pressured to respond to work-related messages quickly. If work-family conflicts and emotional exhaustion build up, people's work performance will likely suffer.

The "ideal worker culture" is prevalent in modern workplaces, which expects employees to prioritize work above all else and be constantly available. It can also be rooted in individuals viewing work as the most important part of their identity and a primary source of self-worth, making them feel valueless if they stop working.

Companies need to genuinely invest in transforming the "ideal worker culture" into an "ideal workplace culture" that supports healthy work conditions conducive to employee well-being and where employees can diversify their sources of self-worth, recognizing their value in various aspects of life, not just how they are successful at work.

READ ALSO: Chronoworking: The Healthy Workplace Trend to Achieve Work-Life Balance in 2024

Reclaiming Your Time and Paying It Forward

Mark Mortensen, Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour, argues that organizations are responsible for reducing the constant pressure to stay connected. Still, they often fall short due to ignorance or inability.

The first step involves reflecting on personal behavior and technology use. Conduct a "tech audit" by asking How often you receive and respond to requests after work hours? Do you sleep with your phone next to you? Is it on silent or airplane mode? Remember, you do not need your phone as an alarm clock; a basic alarm clock can be purchased cheaply.

Secondly, clear boundaries should be set for reasonable levels of after-work connectivity. If your organization values 24/7 availability, opting not to be available might impact your chances of promotion. If your organization's expectations do not align with your needs, it may not fit you.

Third, communicate clearly with your colleagues and managers after establishing your boundaries, telling them that they are enabling you to perform better by respecting your boundaries. Lastly, consider paying it forward as a leader by reflecting on whether you inadvertently pressure others to work outside their preferred hours and challenge your organization to reconsider whether "always on" mode benefits everyone.

Leading by Example to Replace The "Always On" Culture

Andy J. Yap, Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour, notes that in many industrialized societies, long working hours are common and often enforced on junior employees by senior staff who have upheld these standards. Unfortunately, these work cultures have led to widespread mental and physical health issues, which experts have even labeled as an epidemic that requires urgent attention.

Dismantling an "always on" culture requires leadership enforcement and encouragement, particularly because organizations often have high power distance, with power concentrated at the top. Establishing a new culture, outlining its benefits, impact on employees' daily lives, and why it is preferable is crucial. Simply eradicating an old culture is not enough; leaders must introduce and exemplify the new culture and lead by example.

However, implementing flexible work policies carefully is essential to prevent misuse. Organizations with global teams must account for time zone variations and establish clear expectations regarding working hours. The remote work experiences during the pandemic have equipped companies to adopt a culture prioritizing productivity and well-being. Now, leaders must shift their mindset to spearhead this cultural revolution in the workplace.

RELATED ARTICLE: Australia Proposes "Right to Disconnect" Bill, Allowing Workers Switch Off Devices Outside Working Hours

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Some charity leaders have temporarily stepped down from their roles to campaign as parliamentary candidates in the general election.

Following prime minister Rishi Sunaks announcement on Wednesday that an election will take place on 4 July, leaders of International Rescue Committee (IRC) UK and Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) both took leave to focus on their efforts to be elected as Labour MPs.

IRC UK confirmed that executive director Laura Kyrke-Smith would take unpaid leave while she campaigns over the next six weeks to represent the parliamentary constituency of Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire.

In her stead, IRC UK has appointed its senior director of strategic partnerships Khusbu Patel as interim executive director.

MAP chief executive Melanie Ward confirmed in a social media post that she was taking a leave of absence from her work with the charity.

The charity said its senior management team would oversee its work, including its Gaza emergency response, while Ward campaigns in the Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath constituency in Fife, Scotland.

Meanwhile, Oasis Community Housing chief executive David Smith was recently selected as Labours candidate in a newly-created North Northumberland seat.

The charity has not yet confirmed whether Smith will be taking leave.

Regulatory guidance

According to Charity Commission guidance , sector leaders are free to run as candidates alongside their usual roles.

If an employee is directly engaged in a charitys campaigning activity and also has personal involvement with one particular political party, for example they are standing as a candidate, they should declare this to their employer (the charity), its guidance reads.

The trustees should then consider this potential conflict of interest and assess the risks for the charity in terms of both reputation and legal liability of the person taking on both roles simultaneously.

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By Farnaces/Adobe

The UK general election has been announced for 4 July, and regardless of the outcome, charities may be thinking about engaging with politics in so far as it impacts their causes.

Many in the charity sector have been speaking up and sharing their expertise and opinion. As charities offer frontline support and expert understanding, it is important their voices continue to be heard over the next six weeks.

Following prime minister Rishi Sunaks announcement on Wednesday, charity leaders were encouraged to campaign with confidence by sector bodies.

Though charities can campaign, there are some rules which charities need to be aware of when engaging in political activity, and charities must be cognisant of the law in order to campaign with confidence.

Orlando Fraser, chair of the Charity Commission, recently reiterated the regulators position on campaigning. He has said that charities that engage in political campaigning must do so in a responsible and measured fashion  which does not incite inflammatory rhetoric and undermine public trust.

Nonetheless, Fraser also reiterated his commitment to stand up for the right of charities to lawfully campaign, even while some critics seek to question charities campaigning role.

Charity law

There are several aspects of charity law which charities should be aware of, with the main being campaigning and political activity guidance for charities (CC9).

It states to be a charity an organisation must be established for charitable purposes only, which are for the public benefit. An organisation will not be charitable if its purposes are political.

However, campaigning and political activity can be legitimate and valuable activity for charities to undertake and there may be situations where carrying out political activity is the best way for trustees to support the charitys purposes.

Importantly, a charity must stress its independence and ensure that any involvement it has with political parties is balanced, and must not give support or funding to a political party, nor to a candidate or politician.

Trustees are not required to campaign, but a charity may choose to focus most, or all, of its resources on political activity for a period.

Another key piece of guidance is the Commissions Charities, Elections and Referendums advise, which is for use by charities during the period between the announcement of an election, and the date on which an election is held.

This should be read in conjunction with the more detailed CC9 guidance, which continues to apply during an election period.

Guidance is shaped around what the Commission sees as key risk areas for a charitys party political independence.

It says that charities are free to approach the candidates in an election, setting out the charitys concerns and asking for the candidates opinions on them, but should be especially wary of associating or becoming associated in the minds of the public with a particular candidate or party.

Five-minute guides

The Commission has also published five-minute guides for charities using social media and on political activity and campaigning.

The social media guidance shows that the Commission expects charities to have a policy in place if they are using social media.

It adds: It is important to think about how your charity can use social media effectively to benefit your charity, the risks it may bring, and how you can manage those risks, including by acting reasonably and responsibly to protect your charity.

Social media should also comply with other relevant laws, for example UK GDPR rules, defamation law and equality and human rights law including discrimination, victimisation, harassment, and freedom of expression.

The guidance on political activity and campaigning by charities states that if something goes seriously wrong, the Commission or the courts may look into how the charity was managed and how decisions were made.

The Commission does not expect you to be legal experts, but we will consider what you could have reasonably known or found out when you made your decisions, it states.

Some key takeaways from these documents on charity law are that a charity may use any reasonable method to campaign, so long as it is lawful, and an effective use of charitable resources.

Charities can also use emotive material in their campaigns, but only where this is justified in the context of the aims of the campaign. It must be factually accurate.



The Commissions view is that a charity cannot be party political, but often political activity and campaigning can be different parts of an ongoing focus on a particular issue or charitable purpose.

Election law

There are also election laws which can potentially apply to all organisations, including charities.

Key ones to be aware of are the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, the Lobbying Act 2014, and the Election Act 2022.

The Lobbying Act 2014 and the Elections Act 2022 concern rules around campaigning in an election without registering as a political organisation.

Electoral law requires charities to register as non-party campaigners if they spend over 10,000 on regulated campaign activities in the 12 months leading up to the next election.

The Electoral Commission also produces specific guidance ahead of each election, which contains details of the regulated period, spending limits and reporting requirements.

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales has also published guidance on what charities should pay attention to and around what a general election means for charities and the people who use charity services.

Strong appetite for charity campaigns

Ultimately, campaigning is a core part of many charities makeup and charities are able to engage in political activity, despite some commentators suggesting otherwise.

Research also shows that charities have a role in influencing government, with most adults in the UK thinking the government should listen more to charities.

Indeed, recent analysis by the Sheila McKechnie Foundation and Governance & Leadership magazine has pointed to a strong appetite for charities to speak up on issues that are core to their charitys work.



As well as some of the laws covered in this article, there are other areas which charities will need to be aware of, for example the law around content regulation.

Moreover, particular regimes in other jurisdictions such as in Northern Ireland may have different laws of which charities need to be aware.

An active civil society is critical to our democracy so it is crucial that charities familiarise themselves with the rules so they can campaign with confidence.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Norfolk Southern agreed to pay a $15 million civil penalty and $57.1 million in past government cleanup costs on Thursday, as well as millions in future costs to resolve a U.S. government lawsuit over a 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

Under a proposed consent decree estimated to be worth more than $310 million, the railroad also agreed to significant safety improvements and training, which includes installing additional safety equipment. The railroad will also pay for medical monitoring for health impacts tied to the derailment and release of hazardous chemicals. The settlement will pay for treatment for individual medical needs stemming from the disaster, EPA said.

Norfolk Southern, which did not admit wrongdoing, said the deal means the company will face no criminal penalties and the settlement is included in the around $1.7 billion in related charges to date for the incident and said the settlement will not require it to take additional charges.

Related: Norfolk Southern to Pay $600 Million to Settle Ohio Spill Case

The U.S. Justice Department and Environmental Protection Agency sued Norfolk Southern in March 2023 to ensure the railroad paid full cost of cleanup and any long-term effects of the derailment.

Under the settlement, Norfolk Southern will also reimburse EPA for future cleanup and other response costs. EPA estimates Norfolk Southern will spend an estimated $235 million for all past and future cleanup costs under the proposed consent decree subject to public comment and court approval.

The safety improvements include installing additional devices to detect overheated wheel bearings early enough to prevent derailments like the East Palestine incident. Norfolk Southern says under the agreement it will spend $244 million on safety initiatives through 2025.

Norfolk Southern CEO Alan Shaw said the railroad was pleased we were able to reach a timely resolution of these investigations that recognizes our comprehensive response to the communitys needs and our mission to be the gold standard of safety in the rail industry.

The settlement includes $10-$15 million for continuing monitoring of groundwater and surface water bodies and a $25 million Community Health Program providing medical exams and mental health services for the community and first responders for up to 20 years.

The railroad previously has spent $780 million in environmental response and remediation costs.

Last month, Norfolk Southern agreed to pay $600 million to settle a class action lawsuit over the derailment. The settlement covers personal injury claims from residents and businesses in the city and impacted surrounding communities.

The incident sparked calls for railroad safety reforms in Congress but legislation has stalled.

(Reporting by Shepardson; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Aurora Ellis)

Top photo: This photo taken with a drone shows portions of a Norfolk and Southern freight train that derailed Friday night in East Palestine, Ohio are still on fire at mid-day Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar).
Bayer AG Chief Executive Officer Bill Anderson said the wave of lawsuits over its Roundup weedkiller is an existential threat to the company and farmers, ratcheting up the stakes as it considers a controversial legal maneuver.

The glyphosate litigation topic is an existential topic for our company because it does threaten to remove our ability to continue to innovate for farmers and for food security, Anderson said in a speech at the Executives Club of Chicago on Thursday, referring to Roundups key ingredient.

Bayer is considering whether to use a legal tactic dubbed the Texas Two-Step bankruptcy, in an attempt to settle tens of thousands of US lawsuits claiming Roundup causes cancer, people familiar with the companys thinking told Bloomberg in March. Bayer has vigorously defended its claim that glyphosate and glyphosate-based formulations are safe, and the chemical remains in widespread use across much of the world.

Related: Bayers $1.5 Billion Roundup Verdict Slashed to $600 Million

The CEOs comments show that Bayer is trying to broaden its defense beyond the courtroom, where it has lost a number of US cases from users of the herbicide who claimed it caused cancer, which the company has steadfastly denied. The company argues that without such products, the world will be unable to feed a growing population.

Andersons predecessor, Werner Baumann, generally stopped short of warning that the companys existence was threatened, even as the legal woes mounted. Bayer has set aside $16 billion to resolve Roundup suits. About $10 billion of that reserve has been spent so far, a company spokesman said.

Whats Bayers Roundup and Why Is It Controversial?: QuickTake

Texas Two-Step

The Texas Two-Step gets its name from the use of a state law that lets companies split their assets and liabilities into separate units, then place the part loaded with liabilities into bankruptcy to drive a global settlement.

Such a move, if successful, could permit other parts of Bayer, a major pharmaceutical and consumer health company, to keep operating normally. But courts have rejected the tactic by 3M Co. over suits targeting faulty hearing protection devices for US soldiers and by Johnson & Johnson in litigation tied to its talc-based baby powder.

Bayer agreed to transition from the glyphosate-based version of Roundup to new active weed-killing ingredients in the US consumer market by the end of last year. The company still sells glyphosate-based herbicides for agricultural markets, however, and the European Union late last year authorized sales for another decade.

Anderson in his speech called the glyphosate lawsuits without merit and bad for the company and the employees who have lost their jobs as a result.

The chemical conglomerate is spending more on lawsuits than the 2.4 billion euros ($2.6 billion) a year spent on R&D, the CEO said. He said Bayer is the largest R&D investor in agriculture, and the legal issues put at risk the progress needed to feed an exploding world population by mid-century with less water and land.



Farming Costs

This is actually something very serious for American agriculture, Anderson said. Its been estimated that the cost of groceries for the average family of four in the US would go up by more than 40% if glyphosate were removed from the agriculture system.

Crops genetically modified to withstand the application of glyphosate weedkiller account for almost all of the corn and soybean plantings in the US and Brazil.

Anderson said that despite the USs scientific and regulatory communities giving a green light to glyphosate, the company is still subject to billions of dollars every year in lawsuits. Bayer inherited the Roundup lawsuits through its 2018 purchase of agriculture behemoth Monsanto for $63 billion.

The German companys shares have lost more than 70% of their value since the Monsanto purchase, and they were down a further 1.3% early on Friday in Frankfurt.

Investor concern has grown about Bayers liability, eventually leading to the departure of Baumann. In addition to the legal woes, the company has been grappling with other problems including a weak drug pipeline and high debt.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
Allianz is the lead insurer for the Singapore Airlines aircraft which left one person dead and scores injured after it hit severe turbulence and had to be diverted to Bangkok this week, two sources said on Thursday.

The sources familiar with the matter, who declined to be named, could not immediately provide detail on the size of any potential insurance claim against the hull and liability policy.

Passengers injured by severe turbulence on the flight are likely eligible for compensation, but the amount each receives could differ dramatically even for identical injuries due to an international treaty.

Related: Association Says Travel Insurance Will Likely Cover Injuries Sustained in Singapore Airlines Incident

One passenger died and the airline said 30 passengers were treated for injuries after a flight from London to Singapore made an emergency landing in Bangkok last week. Samitivej Hospital said it was treating 71 passengers.

Under the Montreal Convention, Singapore Airlines is liable for accidents, which can include turbulence, on international flights regardless of whether the airline was negligent, according to U.S. aviation lawyers. If passengers file a lawsuit, the airline cannot contest damages up to around $175,000.

The Montreal Convention sets out various rules for determining where a claim can be brought, which can depend on the destination, where the ticket was purchased and the residence of the passenger.

Tuesdays flight departed from London bound for Singapore and carried passengers from around the world.

(Reporting by Cohn; editing by Kirstin Ridley)

More related stories:
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP, Ohio

Animal at large: Caves Road

Police were called May 13 regarding a complaint of Guinea hens running loose in a womans yard.

A similar complaint was made May 10.

In both cases, an officer visited the complainant and was pointed to the property where the hens live. The owner of the animals was notified of the complaint and given advice.

Animal bite: Waterfall Trail

An officer responded to a call and took a report of a dog biting a person at 4:42 p.m. May 11.

The report was forwarded to the Geauga County Health Department.

Traffic hazard: Caves Road

An officer responded to a complaint about a snapping turtle in the road creating a hazard at 7:34 a.m. May 15.

The officer removed it from the road so that traffic could resume safely.

Traffic hazard: Chillicothe Road

A motorist complained at 9:45 a.m. May 11 that there was a couch and a tarp in the road.

An officer arrived and removed the tarp from the road but did not find a couch.

Suspicious: Chillicothe Road

Police responded to an anonymous report at 8:59 p.m. May 15 about a man walking down the road wearing all camouflage clothing and carrying what looked to be a rifle.

Officers checked the area, but the man was gone.

Get police blotters by email every weekday for free with our new Police Blotter newsletter. Sign up at cleveland.com/newsletters.

Read more from the Chagrin Solon Sun.
(Photo : Unsplash/Michael Fortsch )

Elon Musk is reportedly experiencing a loss of focus during a pivotal moment for Tesla in the electric vehicle industry.

Steve Westly, a former Tesla board member, shed light on Elon Musk's current state of mind and proposed on Thursday that Tesla could benefit from Musk's divided attention. Shared with CNBC on Thursday at the annual VivaTech conference in Paris, Westly emphasized that CEOs of leading global companies must maintain a laser-like focus on their endeavors, but Elon Musk's attention seems dispersed across too many areas.

NVIDIA CEO's Laser-Focus on Running Businesses

Disappointed by Tesla's performance, Westly shifted his focus from investing in the company to launching his venture, The Westly Group.

Westly suggested that Musk's diminishing focus contributed to Tesla falling behind its "Magnificent Seven" counterparts. As the managing director of venture capital firm The Westly Group and an early Tesla investor, Westly emphasized the importance of focus in leadership, highlighting NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang as a prime example of effective focus, which Tesla could benefit from.

Westly Prediction About Tesla's EV

Westly also predicted that Tesla would introduce a new $25,000 car next year, although no evidence supports this claim. Despite Tesla's recent decision to cancel plans for a low-cost electric vehicle, Westly believes such a car would be popular.

Musk provided vague information about Tesla's upcoming models during a first-quarter earnings call. While he mentioned plans to commence production of "new vehicles, including more affordable models," using existing factory lines, details like specifications or pricing for these electric vehicles were not disclosed. Westly also emphasized Musk's strong track record, advising against betting against him.

Musk Seemingly Losing His Ground Due to Foul-Ups and Controversies

Elon Musk's recent foul-ups and mismanagement have caused setbacks for his companies, leading to significant layoffs, notably observed with X. These mistakes have become significant distractions, and Musk's reputation as a businessman has suffered, with suggestions that he has "lost ground."

Recent events, including staff layoffs, have also contributed to distractions for the serial entrepreneur. A recent revenue miss and simultaneous responsibilities at his other ventures, such as SpaceX, X, Neuralink, and The Boring Company, raised concerns about his compensation package. However, Westly stated that assessing Musk's impact on Tesla is ultimately up to the board.

READ ALSO: Elon Musk Widely Reorganizes Tesla, Apologizes for "Incorrectly Low" Severance Packages Amid Series of Layoffs

Tesla disappointed investors last month with its largest quarterly revenue decline since 2012, compounding negative news following an announcement of a more than 10% reduction in quarterly revenue.

Tesla's slowdown arrives during a crucial period for the electric vehicle sector, amidst rising rivalry and an escalating trade conflict between the U.S. and China over alleged Chinese subsidies, with President Joe Biden imposing new 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, effective this year, aiming to deter China from flooding the market with inexpensive goods.



RELATED ARTICLE: Former Twitter Executives Get Back at Elon Musk, Demands $128M Over Unpaid Severance Packages

 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
China releases updated biodiversity database

Xinhua) 09:38, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- China has recently released an updated version of the national species database, known as the Catalogue of Life China 2024 Annual Checklist, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) said Thursday.

The list recorded a total of 155,364 species and subspecies, up 6,690 from the 2023 figure.

The work on this updated database began in 2008 with the aim of illustrating the annual biodiversity conditions in the country and fostering biodiversity research and conservation efforts, said Ji Liqiang, an official of the CAS Biodiversity Committee.

The list was jointly compiled by researchers from the Institute of Zoology, the Institute of Botany, the Institute of Microbiology, the Institute of Oceanology and the Chengdu Institute of Biology under the CAS as well as other institutions.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
(Photo : Unsplash/ mk. s)

On Thursday, OpenAI reversed a controversial decision. Former employees were essentially forced to decide between signing a non-disparagement agreement (NDA) with no expiration date and retaining their vested equity in the company.

OpenAI Retracting Non-Disparagement Agreement (NDA)

An internal memo viewed by CNBC was sent to former employees and shared with current staff at OpenAI. The memo addressed each former employee and stated that upon their departure, they may have been informed that they needed to sign a general release agreement, which included a non-disparagement provision, to retain their vested equity units.

The memo informed former employees that OpenAI had not and would not cancel any vested equity units, regardless of whether they signed the agreement. It also stated that OpenAI would not enforce any other non-disparagement or non-solicitation clauses that the employees might have signed, as OpenAI makes significant updates to their departure process.

OpenAI stated that they have never and will never revoke vested equity from former employees, even if they did not sign departure documents. Unless the provision is mutual, they will remove non-disparagement clauses from standard departure paperwork and release former employees from existing non-disparagement obligations. The company also expressed regret for the delay in changing this language, acknowledging that it did not reflect their values or the company they aspire to be. They added that former employees will be informed of these changes as well.

READ ALSO: IBM Appealing Judgement Against BMC, Succeeds in Reversing $1.6 Billion Verdict in Non-Displacement Lawsuit

Bloomberg initially reported on the release of the non-disparagement provision, while Vox first revealed the existence of the NDA provision.

OpenAI's Series of Internal Controversies and Conflicts

This news emerged amid growing controversy for OpenAI over the past week. The company announced it would remove one of the viral chatbot's voices, "Sky," one week after it introduced a variety of audio voices for ChatGPT.

Sky created controversy for resembling the voice of actress Scarlett Johansson in the movie "Her," which is about artificial intelligence. Johansson alleged that OpenAI ripped off her voice without her consent, despite her declining to let them use it. In response, OpenAI, backed by Microsoft, posted on X that they are pausing the use of Sky while addressing the concerns.

OpenAI also disbanded its team focused on the long-term risks of artificial intelligence last week, just one year after the group was announced, with some team members being reassigned to other teams within the company, according to an anonymous source familiar with the situation. OpenAI has committed 20% of its computing power to its Superalignment team to achieve scientific and technical breakthroughs to steer and control AI systems.

The news came days after both team leaders, OpenAI co-founder Ilya Sutskever and Jan Leike, announced their departures. Leike noted on Friday that OpenAI's safety culture and processes have taken a backseat to shiny products.

On Saturday, another statement attributed to OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman and CEO Sam Altman was posted on X, asserting that the company has raised awareness of the risks and opportunities of AGI (artificial general intelligence) to better prepare the world for it.

RELATED ARTICLE: OpenAI Disbands Superalignment Team Responsible for Controlling AI Risks Amid Leadership Friction

 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Unsplash/stevosdisposable )

JetBlue Airways aims to establish a codeshare agreement with British Airways to expand its flight routes. It is currently seeking approval from the US Department of Transportation.

The application submitted to the Department of Transportation on Wednesday proposes a codeshare partnership between JetBlue and British Airways. The partnership would cover 92 destinations, with 39 departing from New York, 36 from Boston, and 17 in Europe, such as Munich, Stockholm, Oslo, Lisbon, and Copenhagen, according to Paxex Aero, the first industry news website to report about the codeshare.

Airlines often utilize codesharing agreements, which enable them to sell seats on their partner airlines' flights to expand into regions beyond their network. The filing does not specify whether the codeshare benefits the reciprocal loyalty program.

READ ALSO: Alaska Airlines Soars to New Heights with $1.9 Billion Acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines

JetBlue's Wider Access in Europe

While JetBlue has been expanding its European service, with new flights to destinations like Paris, Amsterdam, Dublin, and Edinburgh, its presence is smaller compared to larger trans-Atlantic alliances such as American, United, and Delta Air Lines. If the DOT approves the agreement, travelers could seamlessly book a single flight ticket on both airlines, accessing a more comprehensive range of destinations across Europe and the US.

JetBlue executives had previously acknowledged the success of the company's transatlantic flights, but the airline is reducing capacity in that region under the leadership of new CEO Joanna Geraghty. JetBlue has already canceled its winter flights to London Gatwick and intends to decrease capacity between New York and Paris during the offseason. However, Geraghty has not revealed any plans regarding potentially adding European destinations to JetBlue's network. At the JPMorgan Industrials Conference on March 12, Geraghty mentioned that JetBlue had covered major European destinations from New York and Boston and indicated a shift towards a more opportunistic approach in future decisions.

Exiting the Northeast Alliance

The suggested codeshare follows a court's rejection of the Northeast Alliance, JetBlue's collaboration with American Airlines, where they coordinated flight schedules and routes.

American Airlines also has a longstanding codeshare agreement with British Airways. Because American has limited operations in the New York area, partnering with JetBlue would enable British Airways to broaden its services in the Northeast. Despite the dissolution of the Northeast Alliance, neither JetBlue nor American has dismissed the possibility of forming a similar partnership later on.

Geraghty expressed that JetBlue might be interested in a potential alliance, whether with American or another carrier, in the future. America appealed the judge's decision regarding the Northeast Alliance. However, JetBlue refrained from joining the appeal to concentrate on its merger with Spirit Airlines.

American Airlines did not mention its involvement in the proposed JetBlue-British Airways codeshare. However, the company noted that the new BA/B6 codeshare provides more options for transatlantic travel, benefiting travelers flying on the Atlantic Joint Business.

RELATED ARTICLE: Biden's Airline Fee Disclosure Opposed by Airlines, Saying It Could Only Confuse The Buying Process

 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
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Aleksandarnakic | E+ | Getty Images

You may be saving more money for retirement and not even know it. An increasing share of employers are automating how people save in their company 401(k) plans, in a bid to overcome the inertia that often keeps us from building a nest egg. "Automatic escalation"  or auto-escalation, for short  is one of those popular mechanisms. It automatically raises workers' savings rate each year, often by 1 percentage point at a time up to a cap. The intent is to help boost savings when workers might not take action on their own.

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However, the amount of additional money coming out of each paycheck may be indiscernible to many people. "I have a bet they don't realize it," said Ellen Lander, founder of Renaissance Benefit Advisors Group, based in Pearl River, New York. However, it's generally a good thing. In an ideal world, workers would be saving at least 15% of their annual pay in a 401(k) plan, Lander said. This includes both their own contributions and employer contributions like a company match. The ideal rate may fluctuate depending on factors like age and outside savings. "Philosophically, I think auto-escalation makes perfect sense," Lander said. "We want people to save as much as they can."

Automated 401(k) savings is more widespread

Auto-escalation has become more widespread alongside automatic enrollment, which is when employers divert a portion of workers' paychecks into a 401(k) if they don't sign up voluntarily. About 64% of companies with a 401(k) plan automatically enrolled workers in 2022, according to an annual survey by the Plan Sponsor Council of America, a trade group. Of those companies, 78% also automatically increased workers' savings, up from 65% in 2013, according to the poll. Most, or 84%, of these 401(k) plans raise workers' savings rate by 1 percentage point a year. More from Personal Finance:

U.S. centenarian population will quadruple by 2054

Why working longer is a bad retirement plan

Labor Department cracks down on bad retirement savings advice Here's a basic illustration of how it works: Let's say a worker earns $75,000 a year, contributes 6% of their annual salary to a 401(k), and is paid twice a month. This person saves $4,500 a year, or $187.50 per paycheck. Raising the savings rate to 7% brings annual savings to $5,250, or $218.75 per pay cycle  amounting to just $31.25 more per paycheck. (This example doesn't account for additional financial factors like taxes or annual pay increases.) Employees can opt out of the arrangement. Employers are also obligated to send a notice to workers communicating that they are being automatically enrolled into a 401(k) and their savings rate will be increased, but such communiques may go unnoticed.
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An M&M's advertisement seen on a gas pump. Courtesy: GSTV

The next frontier for the ad market isn't on TV  it's at screens near points of sale. Television had long been the key target for advertisers, until tech companies such as Alphabet and Meta -owned platforms like Facebook began to gobble up market share. While ad dollars are rapidly shifting from traditional TV to streaming, retail and consumer product companies are now taking up a significant part of the mix. The so-called retail media networks  the advertising publishing platforms  of e-commerce, retail and consumer companies like Amazon , Walmart and Kroger are attracting billions of dollars in advertising, according to data from eMarketer and GroupM, the media investment arm of WPP, the world's biggest advertising group. Global retail media ad spending is expected to more than double from $114.18 billion in 2023 to $233.89 billion in 2027, according to eMarketer. Retail media is expected to represent a larger percentage of digital advertising spending, which has begun to eclipse traditional media spending, growing from 18.9% of that segment in 2023 to 25.7% in 2027, according to eMarketer. "What we hear from brands most directly is they no longer wake up with a recipe to buy X amount of TV, X amount of social, X amount of digital. They wake up every day trying to buy growth, trying to buy outcomes for their business," said Sean McCaffrey, president and CEO of GSTV, an on-the-go media network with over 29,000 screens at refueling points tied to convenience retail stores. GSTV screens reach 115 million viewers per month across 49 states. Brands are "more open-minded as to where they can find those audiences," McCaffrey said. "It's the new TV for mass reach advertising," said Mark Boidman, head of media and entertainment investment banking at Solomon Partners. "If you want to reach someone fast, it's best to get them in a store or on your app. ... It's a 360-degree approach."

Cookies to carts

Walmart is turning the approximately 170,000 digital screens across its U.S. stores into advertising opportunities. For example, a company that makes a snack or a beauty product can advertise in the TV aisle of the electronics department. Walmart

The kind of advertising purchased through retail media networks is often found on in-store displays and screens, websites, mobile apps, streaming services, smart TVs and social media. Not only is it fertile ground for an advertiser to get their offerings in front of consumers looking to spend, it comes with a lot of first-party data. The amount of data that retailers have on customers  from one-time buyers to loyalists  is extremely valuable to advertisers who want to optimize their exposure. "If [brands] advertise with a digital ad, for example, and a customer transacts a week later in a store or club, we can connect that up for them and let them know that the ad really worked," Walmart CEO Doug McMillon told CNBC earlier this year. "That's the differentiating advantage that we've got." Walmart has been a particularly big player. While it's still a new frontier for the retailer, advertising has propelled profits at the giant retailer in recent quarters. The company also recently agreed to buy TV maker Vizio in a bid to further boost its ad business. Of the companies eMarketer tracks, Amazon was considered the biggest retail media network in the U.S., with a roughly 75% share of retail media ad revenue. Other top networks by revenue include Walmart, Instacart, eBay and Etsy. The shift toward retail media comes as advertisers are faced with tech privacy changes that has led to a pullback in the collection of data. Earlier this year, Google began its revamp of how it and other companies track users online, namely the use of cookies, which keep tabs on the activity of internet users so that advertisers can target them with relevant ads. In January, Google began to restrict cookies for 1% of its Chrome browser users, with the goal of completely removing third-party cookies by the third quarter of this year. Advertisers have been grappling with how to make the transition. Advertising and media executives note that retail media networks now dominate conversations at conferences and other gatherings, such as the Cannes Lions advertising festival. It's often a highlight on earnings calls, too. "[Retail media networks] have that balance with targeting and privacy and compliance. I think that's where the money really starts shifting," Tim Hurd, vice president of media activation at Goodway Group. "I think that's key. These retailers have that kind of data"

Taking away from TV

Big brands that have in some cases sat out for years the TV advertising frenzy around the biggest US sporting event -- the Super Bowl -- are returning Sunday and spending big amid record ad prices. It's been a bumpy couple years marked by pandemic-era restraint and political polarization, but the American football championship offers an increasingly unequalled viewership too big to pass up. Olivier Douliery | AFP | Getty Images
Bhutan's governing philosophy of "Gross National Happiness" has been heralded the world over for balancing economic growth with the well-being of its citizens. But recent discussions of "Gross National Happiness 2.0" by its newly elected Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay suggest that change on some level is underway as the country struggles with an economic crisis that's left it  as Tobgay has said "teetering on the brink of collapse." GNH, as it's known, has been the guiding principle of Bhutan since it was introduced by the former king Jigme Singye Wangchuck in the early 1970s. But with youth unemployment rates of nearly 30% and about one in eight people living in poverty, has Bhutan reached a point where its quest for national happiness must change? "Yes and no," Tobgay told CNBC in an interview on May 10. "Yes, because we've got to grow our economy."

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But the tenets of GNH will not be abandoned, he added. "Should we throw caution to the wind? No. We can grow, and we can grow in a manner that is balanced."

Finding a new equilibrium

Bhutan will continue to strengthen its economy in ways that are sustainable, equitable and "balanced with social progress, environmental protection, cultural protection and good governance," he said. "In these areas we have succeeded, like nobody could have imagined," he said.

Seen from the successes of the social progress area, we have failed economically." Tshering Tobgay Prime minister of Bhutan

But he also signaled that the principle applied in the past may have been too one-sided. "We've been extremely cautious, very conservative, so we have lagged," he said. "Looked at one way we have not really failed. But seen from the successes of the social progress area, we have failed economically." Tobgay also said that Bhutan has been similarly guarded in its approach to tourism. "We've been extremely cautious in how we have opened ourselves to the rest of the world as far as tourism is concerned," Tobgay told CNBC. "We've been very conservative, very cautious." If Bhutan erred, it was on the side of sustainability and conservation, he added. "We are paying for caution right now."

Doubling down on sustainable tourism

Bhutan's tourism industry is recovering slower than other countries in Asia. In 2023, international arrivals in the country were a third of 2019 levels. The country has changed its controversial "Sustainable Development Fee" three times since it reopened in September of 2022  first increasing it to $200 per adult per day, then lowering it twice.
Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have given each other a few tips over the course of their friendship, which has lasted for more than three decades and counting.

One of those lessons is something Gates wishes he'd learned a lot sooner, to clear up his busy schedule  and possibly even made him happier and more productive.

"It took far too long for me to realize that you don't have to fill every second of your schedule to be successful," Gates posted on Meta's Threads app on Thursday. "In hindsight, it's a lesson I could have learned a lot sooner had I taken more peeks at Warren Buffett's intentionally light calendar."

Gates "had every minute packed" on his schedule when he was CEO of Microsoft, a job he held for 25 years before stepping down in 2000. He's admitted he was a difficult boss  one who wasn't shy about sending 2:00 a.m. requests to employees.

"I thought that was the only way you could do things," Gates told journalist Charlie Rose in an interview alongside Buffett in 2017. Gates finally learned to cut his employees, and himself, some slack after catching a peek of the Berkshire Hathaway CEO's personal daybook.

"[I] remember Warren showing me his calendar ... he [still] has days that there's nothing on it," Gates said, adding that Buffett's sparser schedule taught him an important lesson. "You control your time ... It's not a proxy of your seriousness that you fill every minute in your schedule."

"I can buy anything I want, basically, but I can't buy time," Buffett noted, during the same interview.

Buffett's method  essentially, "work smarter, not harder,"  is backed by science.

Workers' proficiency steeply declines when they work more than 50 hours per week, a 2014 Stanford University study found. People who work up to 70 hours a week get the same amount of work done as those who hunch over their laptops for 55 hours, the research revealed.

You also shouldn't work too few hours in a week: People tend to be happiest when they can keep busy  no one wants to be bored  without working so much that they become over-stressed, research shows.

The optimum amount of daily free time on a person's schedule is up to 9.5 hours, one 2021 study found. That number likely feels unrealistic for most working adults, but setting aside more discretionary time can result in lower stress levels and long-term health benefits, the researchers noted.

Getting there may not be easy. It took Gates years to find a healthy work-life balance, he said in a commencement speech at Northern Arizona University last year.

"When I was your age, I didn't believe in vacations. I didn't believe in weekends. I didn't believe the people I worked with should, either," Gates said.

"Don't wait as long as I did to learn this lesson," he added. "Take your time to nurture your relationships, to celebrate your successes, and to recover from your losses. Take a break when you need to. Take it easy on the people around you when they need it, too."

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Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.
TV ratings no longer the sole measure of drama's success

By KTimes

With the advent of online video streaming platforms, TV ratings are no longer the sole measure of a show's success, and the series "Lovely Runner" has demonstrated how impactful a strong buzz can be for a show's popularity.

According to Nielsen Korea, a leading global provider of TV data, "Lovely Runner" started with a 3 percent viewership rating for its first episode and reached 4.8 percent by its 14th episode.

Despite its relatively modest ratings, the drama has built a powerful fanbase. The show's overall buzz, along with the popularity of its lead actors, Byeon Woo-seok and Kim Hye-yoon, has propelled it to the top of various popularity charts.

Buzz refers to the widespread interest and excitement generated around a show, often measured by its presence and popularity across news, social media and other platforms.

Initially, "Lovely Runner" was not considered for prime time slots and was not highly anticipated. However, it has now become one of the hottest dramas.

"Lovely Runner" benefited from word-of-mouth, fueled by its availability on streaming platforms. Both the TV broadcast ratings and the cumulative viewing time for Tving's streaming service have increased steadily.

The synergy between tvN and Tving helped the drama captivate its target audience: women in their 20s and 30s, despite the limitations of its genre as a "youth drama" airing on Monday and Tuesday nights.

Popularity extends beyond Korea



tvN conducted a pre-broadcast screening to identify the selling points that appeal to the younger demographic, which were then reflected in the editing and marketing strategy.

Park Sang-hyuk, the head of channel business at tvN, is optimistic about surpassing the 5 percent rating threshold, saying, "We are confident that the strong buzz will translate into higher ratings."

Tving reported a remarkable 94 percent real-time viewing share among all live channels during the same time slot.

Although the drama's ratings have plateaued as it nears its conclusion, "Lovely Runner" remains strong in all four key areas of "buzz": the news, voice of netizens, video and social media.

Its popularity extends beyond Korea, topping the weekly viewing charts on Viu, an Asian regional streaming service, in Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia for the first week of May, from April 29 to May 5.

Byeon and Kim have maintained their positions at the top of the actor buzz rankings for three consecutive weeks.

Park emphasized the importance of demographic ratings from adults aged 20 to 49.

"Content driven by buzz tends to generate even more buzz," Park said.

An analysis of tvN shows that high engagement from the 20 to 49 demographic leads to increased motivation to watch the live broadcast, and the enthusiastic response from this age group has influenced other demographic cohorts, creating the current buzz surrounding "Lovely Runner."

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, sister publication of The Korea Times, was translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.
In this handout provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket with Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft aboard is seen illuminated by spotlights on the launch pad at Space Launch Complex 41 ahead of the NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test on May 4, 2024 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Boeing and NASA are moving forward with the launch of the company's Starliner capsule, set to carry U.S. astronauts for the first time, despite a "stable" leak in the spacecraft's propulsion system.

"We are comfortable with the causes that we've identified for this specific leak," Mark Nappi, Boeing vice president and manager of the company's Commercial Crew program, said during a press conference on Friday.

"We know we can manage this [leak], so this is really not a safety of flight issue," Nappi added.

Boeing is now targeting June 1 for the first crewed launch of its spacecraft, with backup opportunities on June 2, June 5 and June 6.

The mission, known as the Starliner Crew Flight Test, is intended to serve as the final major development test of the capsule by delivering a pair of NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station before flying routine missions.

Starliner's crew debut has been delayed by years, with SpaceX's competing Dragon capsule flying astronauts for NASA regularly since 2020 under the agency's Commercial Crew program. To date, Boeing has eaten $1.5 billion in costs due to Starliner setbacks, in addition to nearly $5 billion of NASA development funds.
 This is the script of CNBC's news report for China's CCTV on May 24, 2024.

Due to the current global container shipping capacity crunch, international spot shipping rates have surged recently, rising about 30% over the past few weeks. Specifically, data from the shipping rate benchmarking platform Xeneta shows that tensions in the Red Sea earlier this year triggered a sharp increase in shipping costs, which later declined, but two more waves of increases occurred in late April and mid-May. Compared to the end of April, the spot shipping rate for a 40-foot container from East Asia to ports on the East and West Coasts of the United States has risen by $1,500 on average.

Xeneta told CNBC that the increase in rates indicates a recovery in the spot shipping market and highlighted a trend where the gap between short- and long-term freight rates is widening.

A comparison shows that long-term freight rates have fluctuated less and have not seen dramatic spikes in spot rates, with the current gap between the two exceeding $2,500. When there is a large disparity in freight rates, shipping companies tend to prioritize capacity for spot cargo to earn higher revenue, which can lead to delays in the transport of long-term cargo.

The main reason for the latest surge in spot shipping rates is a shortage of containers. Shipping companies avoiding the Red Sea and rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa have resulted in longer transit times at sea, preventing the timely reloading of containers. Additionally, the peak season starting earlier and extreme weather conditions have further exacerbated supply chain challenges.

The shipping peak season typically runs from June to September each year, but some analysts say that potential disruptions have prompted retailers to act early this year. Companies are concerned about possible strikes at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports in the U.S. after contracts expire this fall. To ensure that seasonal goods arrive on time or early, U.S. companies have started ordering holiday and back-to-school products in advance.

Furthermore, extreme weather in Asia has impacted port operations in countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and China. These weather conditions have extended sailing times, and to meet delivery deadlines, some ships have skipped intermediate ports, preventing empty containers from returning to export ports promptly, further impacting container supply.

Notably, two major shipping giants, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, have raised their performance forecasts for this year. Maersk expects the rerouting around the Red Sea to continue until the end of the year and anticipates stronger-than-expected cargo volumes.

Additionally, the CEO of DHL Express US told CNBC that the transportation industry might face increased demand and insufficient supply this year and has already started preparing for the peak season early.

Greg Hewitt

DHL Express US CEO

"There's going to be a little bit higher demand, maybe some people are starting to worry again around, is there going to be the space to make sure everything flows and is smooth for the supply chain. So we're gearing up with that in mind for this peak season."

Xeneta has warned that freight rates might continue to rise further in early June and that spot shipping rates from the Far East to the U.S. West Coast could exceed the levels seen during the height of the Red Sea crisis earlier this year. Ultimately, rising freight costs may impact consumer prices, and we will keep an eye on it.


Nio opened a showroom in Amsterdam this week, and Xpeng launched its G9 and G6 sports utility vehicles in France last week. Xpeng also had a car on display at the VivaTech conference in Paris, and BYD likewise showed off one of its vehicles.

PARIS  Chinese electric carmakers are expanding into Europe even as politicians raise the possibility of high tariffs on vehicles from the world's second-largest economy.

The public marketing efforts come amid an ongoing investigation by the European Commission, the European Union's executive arm, into subsidies given to electric vehicle makers in China. The result of this probe could lead to tariffs on Chinese EV imports.

The U.S. has already taken such a step, with the Biden administration imposing 100% tariffs on Chinese EV imports.

Chinese EV makers have been aggressively expanding overseas, as they look to challenge Elon Musk's Tesla internationally but also to gain an early lead ahead of established automakers.

Companies like BYD have raised concerns about the cutthroat pricing of vehicles. BYD has a car called the Seagull, a small all-electric hatchback that starts at just 69,800 yuan, or less than $10,000. Chinese firms' ability to launch cheap cars could heap pressure on established automakers, which may not be able to match the discounted pricing.

China's EV industry has boomed over the years thanks to incentives and support from the Chinese government, which has concerned politicians in Europe and the U.S.

When CNBC asked about potential EU tariffs this week, French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire did not confirm that such measures are on the way. But he said his goal is to "protect our industry and to ensure that on the international stage, there is a level playing field."
After a week focused on Nvidia , CNBC's Jim Cramer said investors should prepare to turn their attention from the artificial intelligence giant to retailers. He pointed to a slate of upcoming earnings reports from outfits including Costco and Dollar General .

"We have some very exciting companies reporting next week, ones that revolve around whether the consumer's fatigued, may be taking a break, trying to figure out what to do, we're not quite sure," he said.

Cava will report on Tuesday, and Cramer said he'll be waiting to see whether the Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant chain is deserving of its stock's hefty run.

Wednesday brings reports from Abercrombie & Fitch , Dick's Sporting Goods and Salesforce . Cramer noted that both retail stocks are up fairly high year to date, adding that he wouldn't be surprised if Dick's reported a solid quarter and shares surged further. He said Salesforce is "doing many things right, but it's not getting credit for them," wondering if this next quarter could boost the stock.

Toast 's investor day is also on Wednesday, and Cramer said the stock could move if the company can prove business has not slowed.

On Thursday, Cramer will be eyeing earnings reports from Dollar General and Burlington Stores . He said both off-price retailers are good buys when the consumer is stretched.

Cramer added he's not expecting great results from Best Buy or Foot Locker on Thursday, but added both stocks could entertain a turnaround eventually  especially if the electronics retailer sells new PCs with AI features in the fall.

Kohl's , Cracker Barrel , Gap , Marvell Technology , Ulta , Dell and Costco also report on Thursday. Cramer said Kohl's has gone through some difficulty lately, but suggested its rebrand might start to "click" this quarter. He liked what Cracker Barrel's management has had to say, but called the company a "work in progress" for years to come. Cramer said he's expecting positive quarters from Del, Gap and Costco, noting the grocery giant does well even in a tough environment for the consumer.



Lastly on Thursday, Cramer will be waiting to see if Cloudflare can make a comeback at its investor day.
An injection pen of Zepbound, Eli Lillys weight loss drug, is displayed in New York City on Dec. 11, 2023.

Eli Lilly on Friday said it is investing another $5.3 billion in a manufacturing plant in Lebanon, Indiana, to boost supply of its highly popular weight loss drug Zepbound, diabetes treatment Mounjaro and other medicines.

Demand for those treatments has far outpaced supply over the past year, spurring shortages in the U.S. and forcing the pharmaceutical giant to invest heavily to scale up its manufacturing.

That new commitment brings Eli Lilly's total investment at the site to $9 billion. That makes it Eli Lilly's largest manufacturing investment in its nearly 150-year history, the company's CEO David Ricks said in a statement.

Eli Lilly expects the Lebanon site to start making medicines toward the end of 2026, and scale up operations through 2028. The company first announced its plans to build new Indiana sites in 2022.

The plant will specifically increase Eli Lilly's capacity to manufacture the active ingredient in Zepbound and Mounjaro, called tirzepatide. The company refers to those treatments as incretin drugs, which mimic certain gut hormones to suppress a person's appetite and regulate blood sugar.

"This multi-site campus will make our latest medicines, including Zepbound and Mounjaro, support pipeline growth and leverage the latest technology and automation for maximum efficiency, safety and quality control," Ricks said in a statement.

Eli Lilly said 900 employees, including engineers, scientists, operating personnel and lab technicians, will staff the site when it is fully operational.

The company has spent more than $18 billion to build, expand and purchase manufacturing plants in the U.S. and Europe since 2020.

Eli Lilly has several manufacturing sites either "ramping up or under construction," Chief Financial Officer Anat Ashkenazi told investors during an earnings call last month. That includes the Lebanon plant and another Indiana site, two locations in North Carolina, one in Ireland, one in Germany and a seventh site the company recently acquired from Nexus Pharmaceuticals.

Investors cheered Eli Lilly after the company hiked its full-year revenue outlook by $2 billion, in part due to confidence about increased production of Zepbound, Mounjaro and other incretin drugs for the rest of the year.

"Now that we're four months into the year, we have greater visibility into that, into these nodes of capacity and feel more confident," Ashkenazi said during the call.
Former race car driver Mario Andretti listens during a news conference on May 01, 2024 in Washington, DC. Rep. John James (R-MI) hosted Andretti on Capitol Hill to respond to the Formula 1 management denying his family and General Motors the opportunity to join the global motorsports series. Anna Moneymaker | Getty Images

A dispute over whether to accept American motorsports giant Andretti Global as Formula One's 11th team is reaching boiling point. Tensions reportedly spilled over at the Miami Grand Prix earlier this month as the CEO of F1's parent company, Liberty Media, told the F1 legend Mario Andretti that he "will do everything in his power to see that Michael [Mario's son and head of Andretti Global] never enters Formula One." Liberty Media declined to comment on the report by NBC News dated Thursday, which cited sources with knowledge of the incident, although an anonymous source close to Liberty Media said that the conversation occurred differently from how Andretti had described it. It's the latest twist in the Andretti saga, which started in October 2023 when the sport's governing body, the FIA, approved the American team's bid to join the grid. Three months later, F1, the sport's commercial arm, quashed the bid, arguing that Andretti wouldn't be competitive in 2025 or 2026. It argued that it would need to fight for race wins and podiums to bring any significant benefit to the sport.

'Not come for free'

The average value of these sponsorship deals doubled after the introduction of a third U.S. Grand Prix in Las Vegas last year, according to analytics firm Luscid, and the government's letter said that "limiting the number of teams in Formula One will increase the price of sponsoring or buying into an existing Formula One team." But does this amount to anti-competitive behavior? As F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali told CNBC, "what we're seeing has not come for free." Estimates suggest that F1's American owner, Liberty Media, invested as much as $600 million to put on the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and while Domenicali refused to comment on the Andretti bid, F1 has stated it believes "F1 would bring value to the Andretti brand rather than the other way around." Teams worry that an eleventh team would dilute their share of the TV revenue and prize money. Under the existing Concorde Agreements, which determine the revenue split, a new entrant would need to pay a $200-million "anti-dilution" fee, a sum most teams don't feel reflects the increase in their value since the deal was agreed in 2020. Rumors that Apple may be willing to pay as much as $2 billion to secure future broadcast rights and speculation that Saudi Arabia is weighing up buying the sport entirely for around $20 billion will also play into stakeholders calculations. Pressure from the U.S. government could force F1's hand however, and teams want assurances that their share of the growing revenue won't be diluted. One solution which has been proposed by F1 veterans Tim Milne and Lewis Butler is that three new teams are allowed to enter as "non-constructors," making them ineligible for a share of the prize money. These new entrants would also be obliged to operate out of a region not currently represented by F1 teams.

Formula One F1 - United States Grand Prix - Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas, U.S. - October 23, 2022 Tim Cook waves the chequered flag to the race winner Red Bull's Max Verstappen Mike Segar | Reuters

Another option is to agree to a higher anti-dilution fee. This has already been mooted by the heads of larger teams such as McLaren's Zac Brown. "The dilution of an 11th team is about $10 million a year," he explained. "So, if I get $70 [million], it will be covering me for seven years. Then if it costs $700 [million] just to enter, it's created $700 million more in franchise value." This will be a tricky move to pull off, however, as the U.S. government will be unlikely to accept a higher entry fee based on growth they see as driven by the American market. "If you want access to our markets, if you want access to our fans, you must grant access to our companies, you must grant access to our automotive workers, you must grant access to Americans themselves," said John James, one of the 12 American members of Congress to have signed the letter. It isn't just in Washington where support for Andretti is growing, explained Andretti. "In Miami, I embraced Fernando Alonso and he said 'it's just maddening they're giving you so many problems.'"

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Here's where to start in understanding employee rights versus the rights of a company to discipline workers up to and including dismissal:

Employment attorneys say the outcomes of these types of cases turn heavily on the specific facts and circumstances. And there isn't always a quick resolution, which makes it even more important for workers who want to protest political or social issues to know what they could be getting themselves into  before they act in a way that could have long-term repercussions.

That's not to say there won't be legal wrangling over the firing, such as the case with Google, which recently terminated 28 employees in April after a series of protests against labor conditions and the company's contract to provide the Israeli government and military with cloud computing and artificial intelligence services. This occurred a day after nine Google workers were arrested on trespassing charges after staging a sit-in at the company's offices in New York and Sunnyvale, California, including a protest in Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian's office. The fired employees have since filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board.

"It's not considered illegal for an employer to say, 'You're representing us; we think that behavior reflects badly on us and so you're fired,'" said Nicole Page, partner at Reavis Page Jump, whose firm represents employees and employers in employment matters.

This is especially pertinent for workers now, given the wave of protests and charged social media posts related to Middle East tensions, the presidential election and other hot-button social issues. Workers may think they have more protections than they do, which can lead them to say or do things that get them fired.

Attention workers: what you say or do  even outside of normal working hours  could get you fired.

Remember: The First Amendment does not apply to private-sector workers

Many people participating in protests, sit-ins, or making charged statements on social media may think the First Amendment offers them a blanket of protection, but the U.S. Constitution places restrictions on the government, not private-sector employers.

Workers who think they have impunity when it comes to free speech and employment law are wrong. In fact, bosses may legitimately have grounds to terminate their employment.

Broadly speaking, the federal government is not allowed to limit your ability to speak, but the same is not true for private employers, Page said. However, there are certain state laws that protect an employee's right to speak, and there are certain protections for union members, who have some built-in protections under the National Labor Relations Act. That includes the ability to talk to coworkers about joining a union, pass out literature about joining a union (in non-work areas during non-work times), sign up co-workers on petitions in non-work areas and during non-work times, join with co-workers for the purpose of improving on-the-job working conditions.

Workers also have the right to speak out about an employer's unlawful conduct that harms them or other workers, such as discrimination, harassment, wage violations, and opposition to union efforts to improve conditions, said Jahan Sagafi, partner-in-charge of Outten & Golden's San Francisco office, where he represents workers in employment class actions.

Know how 'pro-worker' your state is

Many states have agencies equivalent to the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Department of Labor to protect workers from discrimination and other workplace harm. You may be able to find them by searching your state's name plus "fair employment practices agency" or "department of labor."

Some states known to be more pro-worker, including on speech issues, include California, New York and Illinois, Sagafi said.

In California, for example, there are protections for workers' expression of political ideas, which has been interpreted broadly, especially when an employee can show, for instance, that an employer has a pattern of discrimination when it comes to that employee. In many cases, courts have allowed lawsuits to proceed past summary judgment because there are significant enough questions of fact to allow it to move forward.

Make 'common sense' protest choices to protect yourself

Discipline and termination are always risks. But there are things you can do to protect yourself.

First: Use common sense and don't be disruptive at work, Sagafi said. Don't plan a protest for societal change on company grounds or on company time, or using company resources. "In general, the company has the right to maintain an orderly, inclusive, productive environment for everyone," Sagafi said.

Second, limit the degree to which your actions can be attributed to the company. "You don't want to make it look like you're speaking on behalf of the company, because the company may be concerned that its image or brand is being tarnished," Sagafi said.

"If you work for a company whose biggest clients include oil industry titans and you chain yourself to a tree because you're protesting oil drilling, you can get fired for that," Page said.

Simply going to a protest might not rise to the level of firing, but if you're posting publicly, or there's a photo of you holding up a sign or throwing something or even just putting something on social media like "I hate oil," it could be reasonable grounds for a company to fire you, she added.

It can be difficult for an employee to know every client of their firm, let alone rank them in order of importance, but again, common sense applies. If you know your company is heavily involved or invested in a particular industry, and you thumb your nose at that in a very public way, legal experts say you could be fired.

In the end, employers have a much better case for a reasonable business justification for termination if a worker breaks the law, acts violently, incites violence, or states blatantly hateful, violent or discriminatory things, said Devin McRae, partner at Early Sullivan Wright Gizer & McRae. Also, don't skip work without permission and don't lie to your employer by taking a sick day, for example, and then attend a public protest. If you show up on the evening news, "conceivably your employer could fire you for lying to them," McRae said.

Social media will get you in trouble

Especially with social media, people have a false sense of security sitting behind a computer and posting what they want. But companies can fire you for what you post, as long as they are not doing it in a discriminatory way. "There can be consequences in the real world," Page said.

She offered the example of NYU Langone, which recently fired two doctors  one for expressing pro-Palestinian views and the other for posting pro-Israel views. One of the doctors has sued, claiming discrimination and the case is ongoing.

It's good to start by thinking twice before you post anything political  especially if you are feeling emotional  and become familiar with your employers' policies on social media posts. Some companies prohibit employees from posting political views on social media, for instance. Going against the policy may be grounds for immediate termination.

Taking an employer to court after being fired is a wildcard

Of course, a worker fired for protesting or expressing views on social media may decide to sue the company for wrongful termination, but that requires time and money. These cases are highly fact-specific, and there's no telling how a jury would decide, if a case even goes that far.

An employee might have a good case, for example, if they can point to multiple examples where another employee wasn't fired for violating the same policy. There is often legal wrangling over what the company's motivations were in firing the employee, McRae said.
It's been less than two weeks since Google debuted "AI Overview" in Google Search, and public criticism has mounted after queries have returned nonsensical or inaccurate results within the AI feature  without any way to opt out.

AI Overview shows a quick summary of answers to search questions at the very top of Google Search. For example, if a user searches for the best way to clean leather boots, the results page may display an "AI Overview" at the top with a multistep cleaning process, gleaned from information it synthesized from around the web.

But social media users have shared a wide range of screenshots showing the AI tool giving incorrect and controversial responses.

Google, Microsoft, OpenAI and other companies are at the helm of a generative AI arms race as companies in seemingly every industry rush to add AI-powered chatbots and agents to avoid being left behind by competitors. The market is predicted to top $1 trillion in revenue within a decade.

Here are some examples of errors produced by AI Overview, according to screenshots shared by users.

When asked how many Muslim presidents the U.S. has had, AI Overview responded, "The United States has had one Muslim president, Barack Hussein Obama."

When a user searched for "cheese not sticking to pizza," the feature suggested adding "about 1/8 cup of nontoxic glue to the sauce." Social media users found an 11-year-old Reddit comment that seemed to be the source.

Attribution can also be a problem for AI Overview, especially in attributing inaccurate information to medical professionals or scientists.

For instance, when asked, "How long can I stare at the sun for best health," the tool said, "According to WebMD, scientists say that staring at the sun for 5-15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes if you have darker skin, is generally safe and provides the most health benefits."

When asked, "How many rocks should I eat each day," the tool said, "According to UC Berkeley geologists, people should eat at least one small rock a day," going on to list the vitamins and digestive benefits.

The tool also can respond inaccurately to simple queries, such as making up a list of fruits that end with "um," or saying the year 1919 was 20 years ago.

When asked whether or not Google Search violates antitrust law, AI Overview said, "Yes, the U.S. Justice Department and 11 states are suing Google for antitrust violations."

The day Google rolled out AI Overview at its annual Google I/O event, the company said it also plans to introduce assistant-like planning capabilities directly within search. It explained that users will be able to search for something like, "Create a 3-day meal plan for a group that's easy to prepare," and they'd get a starting point with a wide range of recipes from across the web.

"The vast majority of AI Overviews provide high quality information, with links to dig deeper on the web," a Google spokesperson told CNBC in a statement. "Many of the examples we've seen have been uncommon queries, and we've also seen examples that were doctored or that we couldn't reproduce."

The spokesperson said AI Overview underwent extensive testing before launch and that the company is taking "swift action where appropriate under our content policies."

The news follows Google's high-profile rollout of Gemini's image-generation tool in February, and a pause that same month after comparable issues.

The tool allowed users to enter prompts to create an image, but almost immediately, users discovered historical inaccuracies and questionable responses, which circulated widely on social media.

For instance, when one user asked Gemini to show a German soldier in 1943, the tool depicted a racially diverse set of soldiers wearing German military uniforms of the era, according to screenshots on social media platform X.

When asked for a "historically accurate depiction of a medieval British king," the model generated another racially diverse set of images, including one of a woman ruler, screenshots showed. Users reported similar outcomes when they asked for images of the U.S. founding fathers, an 18th-century king of France, a German couple in the 1800s and more. The model showed an image of Asian men in response to a query about Google's own founders, users reported.

Google said in a statement at the time that it was working to fix Gemini's image-generation issues, acknowledging that the tool was "missing the mark." Soon after, the company announced it would immediately "pause the image generation of people" and "re-release an improved version soon."

In February, Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis said Google planned to relaunch its image-generation AI tool in the next "few weeks," but it has not yet rolled out again.

The problems with Gemini's image-generation outputs reignited a debate within the AI industry, with some groups calling Gemini too "woke," or left-leaning, and others saying that the company didn't sufficiently invest in the right forms of AI ethics. Google came under fire in 2020 and 2021 for ousting the co-leads of its AI ethics group after they published a research paper critical of certain risks of such AI models and then later reorganizing the group's structure.

In 2023, Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google's parent company, Alphabet, was criticized by some employees for the company's botched and "rushed" rollout of Bard, which followed the viral spread of ChatGPT.

Correction: This article has been updated to reflect the correct name of Google's AI Overview. Also, an earlier version of this article included a link to a screenshot that Google later confirmed was doctored.
Practical realists and head-in-the-cloud dreamers don't always get along in the workplace. The problem: You need both for your business to succeed, according to Beth Viner, a managing director and partner at Boston Consulting Group's tech, design and business unit. Dreamers, who tend to think on a grand scale about big-picture goals, can "often seem untethered to reality" to others, Viner said in a recent TED Talk, given in November 2023. At times, that puts them at odds with their realist counterparts, the "doers" who build and sustain companies. "Finding a way to bridge this tension  that's the key to organizations being able to both keep on keeping on, while building and capturing new growth," said Viner, whose resume includes an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, an executive role at Kickstarter and a CEO position at consulting firm Interbrand New York & San Francisco. DON'T MISS: The ultimate guide to becoming a master communicator and public speaker At one job, you could be a dreamer, and in another, a doer. The roles aren't static: Viner said she's assumed both identities at different points in her career. In her talk, Viner largely addressed the dreamers in the room  but the lessons she shared are applicable to everyone. Here are her top three tips for working with those colleagues you may find the most frustrating.

Bring everyone to the table

Dreamers are prone to moving quickly, without much concern for how their company usually does things, Viner said. That risks passing over the ideas of the doers who work within those existing frameworks. In particular, doers can view a dreamers' workflow as "foggy," and dreamers can see doers as "too rigid or prescriptive," said Viner, noting: "How each group does the work probably makes the other quite uncomfortable." To remedy this, she recommended establishing what she calls "a corporate mosh pit." In mosh pit sessions, teams sit down together specifically so doers can deliver feedback on upcoming projects to dreamers. Getting both groups of people into the same room  with a shared purpose  can improve decision-making across an entire company, Viner said. "It requires acknowledging those who are explicitly not like you," she said. "Invite them into your work, raid their brains and hook their hearts to what you're doing."

Slow things down  a little

Another possible solution, Viner suggested: Set up regular "speed bump" meetings that run throughout the duration of a project. Similar to the mosh pit sessions, the point of a speed bump meeting is to get everybody on the same page and keep parts of the team from racing too far ahead. "I believe that that creates better alignment among the humans around you," Viner said. Don't schedule speed bumps too frequently, or nobody will reach their objectives in a timely fashion, she added. Then, whenever a project goes well, celebrate the win. Make sure you honor everyone's contributions, so no one feels left out. "It doesn't take your boss to make a party. You are there," Viner said. "Stand up, celebrate, acknowledge the humans around you."

Use 'cold, hard cash'
CNBC's Jim Cramer sees footwear company Deckers Outdoor as a disruptive industry player that even big rivals like Nike should be worried about. "Nobody can touch them right now," Cramer said Friday on "Squawk on the Street." Deckers is the company behind the fashion brand UGG, running shoes Hoka, and others. Deckers reported a strong quarterly beat after Thursday's close, sending shares more than 14.5% higher on Friday to an all-time high of nearly $1,037 each. The stock has gained more than 50% year to date  far better than the S & P 500 's 11% advance over the same stretch. DECK YTD mountain DECK shares performance year-to-date. "It's very rare that you have not one but two different shoes doing really well," Cramer said, referring to UGG and Hoka. Those brands benefitted from high levels of full-price selling, which Cramer found impressive given many consumers today are looking for discounts. "You usually get some discounting  there's no discounting going on." He added, "UGG is an incredible brand. It just continues to have great, great numbers and great gross margins." Management, however, provided a conservative outlook for fiscal 2025  guiding to 10% revenue growth, which was in line with Wall Street expectations, but softer margins. Deckers' growth this year has been better than Nike, which has seen fluctuating demand in the U.S. and a slowdown in growth in China. While Deckers' sales are smaller than Nike's, Cramer said that doesn't mean Deckers' brands are not viable competitors. "The people I know who work at Nike are not scared about Hoka because it's not a big company," Cramer said. "[But] I think you should be scared about anyone who has that level of momentum. The shoe business has historically been a momentum business."
By KTimes

Actor Park Seo-joon is rumored to be dating Chinese American model and actor Lauren Tsai, with Park's agency saying it can't confirm this as it relates to his private life.

On Thursday, the Taiwanese media outlet ETtoday reported on the dating rumors between Park and Lauren Tsai.

According to the report, Park recently traveled to Japan with Tsai, and the two were spotted together. Additionally, evidence cited included both posting photos on social media taken at the same location and Park's close friend, Choi Woo-shik, following Tsai on social media.

In response, Park's agency, Awesome ENT, told the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, Friday that "Park Seo-joon recently attended a brand event overseas. We understand that various artists and fashion industry figures were invited to this event," adding, "We ask for your understanding that it is difficult to confirm details regarding his personal life beyond his official schedule."

Meanwhile, Tsai, born in 1998, is active in the United States as an illustrator, actor and model. She previously appeared on the Japanese reality dating show "Terrace House: Aloha State" and is currently an influencer with over a million followers. She is 10 years younger than Park Seo-joon, who was born in 1988.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, sister publication of The Korea times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.
















JPMorgan is "positive" on China stocks and "constructive" on its real estate sector as the world's second-largest economy strives to prop up its equity and property markets.

JPMorgan's view on China stocks is "tilted in the positive direction," said Wendy Liu, the firm's chief Asia and China equity strategist.

Speaking to CNBC's Sri Jegarajah at the JPMorgan Global China summit, Liu said that while she expects the recent sharp rally in Chinese stocks to pause in the short term, she was confident that earnings will improve in 2024 compared to 2023.

"Earnings drive share performance. And investors when they see earnings growth, they'll be interested."

China's CSI300 equity benchmark hit an eight-month high on Monday, and is up 4.97% so far this year at 3,601.48. Liu, who expects the index to hit 3,900 by the end of the year, said that China market was still "among the cheapest" in Asia Pacific.

The country's stock markets have been underperforming in recent years. Mainland China's CSI300 was the third worst performing stock market in Asia, losing 11.38% last year. It also clocked losses in 2022 and 2021.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng index recorded its fourth straight year of declines in 2023, losing 14% last year.

Chinese authorities have strived to prop up the country's equities through measures aimed at increasing market liquidity, as well as issuing warnings against malpractices.

Liu is optimistic about China's market reform after new chairman Wu Qing was appointed as the head of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, saying that the CSRC had introduced supply side reforms.

Under Wu, the CSRC has established tighter rules for the listing and delisting of companies, as well as issuing warnings to firms with insufficient dividend policies.

The measures make it easier to penalize firms for regulatory violations or if there are problems with their financial reporting.

When asked about the Chinese real estate sector, Liu said it was at an "inflection point," and that JPMorgan was "constructive" on the sector.

Last week, Chinese authorities pledged new support for state-owned enterprises to enable them to buy unsold apartments.

This included a provision of 300 billion yuan ($42.25 billion) from the People's Bank of China to financial institutions to lend to local state-owned enterprises (SOEs) so they can buy unsold apartments that have already been built.
India and Japan are two bright spots in Asia's "supremely interesting" markets, JPMorgan's Filippo Gori said at the bank's Global China Summit on Thursday, referring to the region's equity as well as deal-making landscape.

"You have Japan, which is on fire. India, which is very in high demand," Gori, co-head of global banking at JPMorgan, told CNBC.

Japan's Nikkei 225 stock index as well as India's Nifty 50 have climbed nearly 26% over the past year, according to LSEG data.

While mergers and acquisitions activity declined globally in 2023, Japan's deal value rose 23% from a year ago to about $123 billion, Bain & Company said in its Japan M&A report. "Japan's economy is uniquely well positioned for growth in M&A," the report said.

Sentiment on the Indian market was bullish, with most dealmakers expecting improvement in 2024, Bain & Company analysts said.

Last year M&A deal value in India stood at $136 billion, a 27% drop for a year earlier, which was in line with the global decline in M&A activity, according to Deloitte's India M&A trends report. "Continued business and investor confidence in India could pave the way for a recovery in deal values in the country," the report said.

Countries such as India and Japan have also been benefiting from the "China Plus One" strategy, as investors look elsewhere in the region to park their money amid escalating U.S.-China tensions.

Companies seeking to expand their manufacturing footprint in India will drive M&A activity in the country: "This can be attributed to the China Plus One reconfiguration of global supply chains and favourable government policies, such as the Production Linked Incentive scheme that promotes manufacturing in India," Deloitte said.

U.S. tech giant Apple shifted some of its production to India after stringent Covid controls in China disrupted its operations there, with around 14% of its iPhones reportedly being made in India now.
Jensen Huang, co-founder and CEO of Nvidia, during the Nvidia GPU Technology Conference in San Jose, California, on March 19, 2024.

Five years ago, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang owned a stake in his chipmaker worth roughly $3 billion. After Thursday's rally, which pushed the stock to a record, his holdings now stand at more than $90 billion.

Nvidia late Wednesday reported first-quarter earnings that topped estimates, with sales jumping more than 200% for a third straight quarter, driven by demand for artificial intelligence processors.

Huang also delivered a better-than-expected forecast and indicated to investors that the company sees insatiable demand for its AI graphics processing units, or GPUs. The company signaled its customers, especially the big cloud companies, could get a strong return on their investment in the pricey chips.

"We are fundamentally changing how computing works and what computers can do," Huang said.

Huang owns about 86.76 million shares of Nvidia, or more than 3.5% of the company's outstanding shares. With the stock rising over 9% to close at a price of nearly $1,038 per share on Thursday, the value of his stake rose by about $7.7 billion.

Nvidia shares have more than doubled this year after tripling in 2023. They are up about 28-fold in the past five years. Huang added shares to his stake in 2022, when the stock hit relative lows before the AI boom.

Huang, 61, founded the Silicon Valley company in 1993 to build GPUs for 3D gaming. While gaming was the company's biggest business for decades, Nvidia has dipped into other markets, including cloud gaming subscriptions, the metaverse and cryptocurrency mining chips.

But Nvidia's fortunes shifted dramatically in late 2022, when OpenAI released ChatGPT, opening up the concept of generative AI to the broader public. The technology showcased a future in which computers won't just retrieve new information from databases, but can also generate new content and answers to questions from large caches of unsorted data.

OpenAI does most of its AI development on Nvidia GPUs. As other companies such as Microsoft , Google and Meta bolstered their investments in AI research and development, they needed billions of dollars worth of the latest AI chips to build out their models.

Huang has been the face of Nvidia and its principal salesperson, constantly extolling the potential and power of using the company's GPUs for building AI.

Nvidia, which has been developing AI software and tools for more than a decade, ended up in prime position to become the top supplier to the biggest technology companies. The company now has about 80% of the market for AI chips, and Huang is among the 20 richest people in the world.
Singapore Airlines ranked as the No. 2 international airline, according to the Bounce 2023 report.

The airline added that crew will continue to secure loose items and equipment and advise passengers to return to their seats and wear their seatbelts.

"SIA will continue to review our processes, as the safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance," it said.

The airline will no longer provide hot drink and meal services when the seatbelt sign is on as part of its new, "more cautious approach" to turbulence, it said in a statement to CNBC.

Singapore Airlines altered its in-flight seatbelt rules and changed at least one flight route following Tuesday's turbulence incident that led to an emergency landing in Bangkok .

The interior of Singapore Airline flight SQ321 is pictured after an emergency landing at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Thailand on May 21, 2024.

Tuesday's SQ321 London-Singapore Boeing 777-300ER flight, carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew, was forced to divert to Bangkok after it encountered severe turbulence over Myanmar, causing passengers and crew to be thrown around the cabin.

The daily route has since remained in service, but flight data shows it has diverted away from part of Myanmar where the turbulence occurred.

According to Flightradar 24, the airline's two completed flights since the incident have flown south of Myanmar, over the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. The airline did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment on the alterations.

A 73-year-old British man died of a suspected heart attack during Tuesday's incident. A further 104 passengers were injured, a press officer for Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital told the Associated Press.

As of Thursday, around 20 passengers remained in intensive care with head and spinal injuries, the director of the hospital said in a press conference, according to the AP. Singapore Airlines said in a separate statement that a total of 44 passengers and two crew remain in the hospital.

Turbulence-related incidents are the most common type of accident suffered by commercial airlines, according to the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board. This covers major U.S. airlines, as well as cargo aircraft and regional carriers.

Severe injuries from turbulence are rare, however, with 163 cases recorded between 2009 and 2022, 129 of them crew members, according to the NTSB.

The Aviation Safety Network has recorded seven incidents for Singapore Airlines, last logging accident fatalities for one of the company's flights in October 2000, when 83 people were killed when the plane crashed into construction equipment at Taipei's main airport.

 CNBC's Sophie Kiderlin contributed to this report.
The CVS pharmacy logo is displayed on a sign above a CVS Health Corp. store in Las Vegas, Nevada on Feb. 7, 2024.

Pharmacy staff at two CVS retail stores in Rhode Island voted to join a new national pharmacy union on Friday, signaling growing momentum in a movement to help thousands of U.S. pharmacy workers address what they allege are unsafe working conditions.

Pharmacy workers at locations open 24 hours a day in Wakefield and Westerly won their union elections, making them the first stores to unionize in CVS' home state, according to a release from the union. It comes a month after a CVS Omnicare pharmacy in Las Vegas  which is not customer facing  became the first location to join the union, known as The Pharmacy Guild.

The labor group will represent them in negotiations with CVS.

"These are the first brick-and-mortar classic CVS model" stores to join the union, Shane Jerominski, a community pharmacist and co-founder of The Pharmacy Guild, told CNBC. "This is really where my heart is  we've all worked for Walgreens or CVS in the classic retail setting, so we all know the working conditions there."

The two locations consist of nine of the company's roughly 30,000 pharmacists in the U.S., a CVS spokesperson said in a statement to CNBC. Some 700 CVS pharmacists are already unionized with other groups, they noted.

The spokesperson said the company respects its employees' right to unionize or refrain from doing so. They added that the vote is the first of several steps in the collective bargaining process.

If the National Labor Relations Board confirms the results, "we'll negotiate in good faith with the union to try to reach an agreement," the CVS spokesperson added.

They said the company is committed to ensuring there are "appropriate levels of staffing and resources" at its pharmacies, using "a combination of staffing, labor hours, workflow process, and technology to do so."

Jerominski and other organizers of a nationwide walkout of pharmacy staff in the fall partnered with IAM Healthcare, a union representing thousands of health-care professionals, to launch The Pharmacy Guild in November. That work stoppage spanned major drugstore chains such as CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid , and drew widespread media attention to workers' concerns.

The Pharmacy Guild aims to help pharmacy staff address what many workers call unsafe staffing levels and increasing workloads across the industry that put both employees and patients at risk. The union also calls for legislative and regulatory changes to establish higher standards of practice in pharmacies to protect patients.

The unionization effort reflects the years of growing discontent among retail pharmacy staff, who say they often grapple with understaffed teams and increasing work expectations imposed by corporate management. Many employees said the Covid-19 pandemic only exacerbated those issues, with new duties such as vaccinations and testing stretching pharmacy staff even thinner.

The Pharmacy Guild is seeing momentum build in other parts of the country, Jerominski said. He added there could be more union filings for stores at companies other than CVS in the next several weeks.
Governor of the Bank of Italy Fabio Panetta (L), Italy's Minister of Economy and Finance Giancarlo Giorgetti (R) and President of the European Central Bank Christine Lagarde pose on the sidelines of the G7 Finance Ministers meeting in Stresa on May 24, 2024.

The Group of Seven of the world's advanced economies began a meeting of the finance and central banks' governors in Stresa, Italy  which holds the coalition's rotating presidency this year  with a view to discuss a potential loan to Ukraine.

Earlier this week, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Sky News she saw the "possibility" that G7 nations could assist Ukraine with as much as $50 billion in loans linked to frozen Russian assets.

"I think that's a possibility. I believe it's important for the G7 to work together to show a united front and to show that we can generate meaningful resources to support Ukraine over the next several years," she said, according to Sky News.

"The Russian assets are not earning interest anymore, but they are generating returns for Euroclear. That alone could be given to Ukraine that would be repaid over several years by that flow of interest," Yellen added.

It remains to be seen whether G7 nations can strike consensus on such a loan and what final sum will be extended to support Kyiv's military effort.

 Ruxandra Iordache
PARIS  X CEO Linda Yaccarino took a hit at Australia on Friday after a faceoff with online safety regulators.

The Elon Musk-owned social media platform X last week won a reprieve in Australia as a court refused to extend a temporary order blocking videos of a Sydney church stabbing globally.

Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel was stabbed during a livestreamed sermon that was widely circulated online, racking up hundreds of thousands of views. Following the incident, Australia's eSafety Commissioner, the country's online watchdog, was granted a temporary legal injunction ordering X to hide posts that showed footage of the attack.

In a talk onstage at the VivaTech conference in Paris, Yaccarino accused Australia of overreach over the dispute.

"Where X operates to comply with the law, we are also not shy when we feel that there is a very obvious overreach, and where the citizens of that particular region are put at risk, or their access to information is compromised," she said.

"What was recently going on in Australia, there was a need for X to stand up and protect people to make sure they maintained access to that information so they could make up their own minds," she added.

On May 13, a federal court judge denied a bid by the eSafety Commissioner to extend an injunction to remove posts on X showing the violent attack of a priest in April.

"The good news is that the people prevailed," Yaccarino, the former global advertising chief at CNBC parent company NBCUniversal, said onstage. "We're happy to be that beacon of light and that place for truth."


Embassy Officials met with Indian students at Kyrgyz State Medical Academy (KSMA) on 23 May. They were assured of Embassy's continued support for their safety and security, advised to follow guidelines prescribed by KSMA and contact Embassy for any assistance, if needed @MEAIndia pic.twitter.com/OcNlSyAUNB

 India in Kyrgyz Republic (@IndiaInKyrgyz) May 24, 2024

Indian students in Bishkek continue to panic and say the situation in the capital city of Kyrgyzstan remains tense, even as the Indian embassy on May 19 said the situation was normal after a mob violence incident reported in preceding days."We have been locked inside since May 17. Many students like me dont cook and eat from outside," Waquar, a sixth-year medical student, was quoted as by English daily The Tribune. He told the newspaper that he had been surviving on tea and cucumbers for three days.He said that when he stepped out on May 19 to get food from KFC, locals chased and hit him and he hasnt stepped out since then.According to The Tribune report, while there are no incidents of mob violence being reported now, Indian students continue to live in fear and claim they are targeted whenever they step out.Following the reports, the embassy on May 24 posted on X that embassy officials met with Indian students at Kyrgyz State Medical Academy (KSMA) on 23 May."They were assured of Embassy's continued support for their safety and security, advised to follow guidelines prescribed by KSMA and contact Embassy for any assistance, if needed @MEAIndia," it wrote in the post."Situation in Bishkek continues to remain calm. However, upon request of Indian medical students, the Embassy is working with Medical Universities in the Kyrgyz Republic to arrange for their transport to the nearest international airport to address their concerns. Students should contact their respective Medical Universities in this regard. In case of any issue, the Embassy can be reached on the helpline numbers 0555710041, 0555005538," the embassy said in another post.Roughly 17,000 Indian students -- spread across various cities -- are in Kyrgyzstan at the moment, as per official figures, most of them are in Bishkek.Following the action by Kyrgyz authorities, the situation has returned to normal but classes have gone online mode as a precaution, the Indian embassy said in a statement. The officials have also warned students and their families not to heed any rumours spread by mischievous elements.Prior to the latest communication, apart from working actively with the universities and senior government functionaries to address the concerns of the Indian students, officials said that Ambassador Arun K.Chatterjee visited the Jalal-Abad State University on May 18 and the International Higher School of Medicine in Bishkek.The embassy officials also visited the International Medical University and the Eurasian Medical University on 21 May 2024, and Royal Metropolitan University and Avicenna University on May 22 to interact with Indian students.The air connectivity between Bishkek and Delhi remains operational, the statement read, adding flights to India can also be availed via Almaty, Dubai, Istanbul, Sharjah and Tashkent. The Indian students have access to local transport to travel to Manas International Airport in Bishkek.Back home, Mohan Yadav, the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister posted on X that about 1,200 students from his state studying in Kyrgyzstan were safe and would return home after the upcoming exams. Two officials of the Indian Embassy met the students and enquired about their well-being. There is no untoward report and the situation there is under control, he said.Meanwhile, the Indian embassy has also advised students to remain vigilant and follow the guidelines laid down by the authorities in the Kyrgyz Republic. "In case of any issue, students can contact the Embassy at 0555710041, 0555005538," an official X post from the Indian Embassy said.
Police have questioned an official from HYBE, the biggest K-pop powerhouse and home to BTS, in connection with a breach of duty accusation the firm raised against the head of subsidiary Ador.

The Yongsan Police Station in Seoul questioned an unidentified HYBE official as the complainant of the case the previous day, according to police officials.

Claiming Min Hee-jin, CEO of Ador, had plotted to usurp managerial control of the music label behind sensationally popular girl band NewJeans, HYBE filed a breach-of-duty complaint against Min last April.

Currently, a Seoul court is also deliberating on an injunction filed by Min to halt HYBE from firing her as Ador CEO during an upcoming shareholders' meeting on May 31. Min is flatly denying the accusation. (Yonhap)
Windows Recall, the new feature that records a users screen at regular intervals, has been labelled a privacy nightmare due to potential data privacy and security risks.

Microsoft announced the AI-based tool on Monday; it records snapshots of a users screen every five seconds to provide a searchable log of historic actions going back three months. The feature will be available in preview in new Copilot+ PCs Microsoft and other vendors will begin selling in mid-June.

There are measures in place to protect Recall data, said Microsoft. Recorded data is stored and processed locally and protected with encryption on a users device. Users can exclude any apps and websites they want kept private. They can also pause Recall when they want.
Some experts believe that being grumpy might have an unexpected benefit: longevity.

Being Grumpy and Longevity

Research from the University of Erlangen-Nuremburg in Germany suggests that grumpy old men and women may outlive their more optimistic counterparts. The study examined data over ten years from nearly 40,000 people and found that those with low expectations for future happiness experienced less disability and lived longer. This could imply that grumpy or pessimistic people take more safety and health precautions, contributing to their longevity.

Misconceptions About Aging and Grumpiness

Pop culture often depicts the elderly as grumpy and unsociable. However, scientific data reveals that older people are not necessarily crankier than younger ones; they just do not conform to the same social expectations. According to Derek Isaacowitz, a psychology professor at Northeastern University, older adults may appear grumpy because they are less motivated by social niceties. This behavior does not necessarily indicate unhappiness.

The Role of Happiness in Aging

Studies indicate that people tend to become happier as they age, especially after 80. Older adults often focus on positive aspects of life and ignore negative information, which helps them cope with life's challenges. Nir Barzilai, who runs a center on aging at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, notes that life experience and psychological factors play a significant role in this increased happiness.

Happiness and Longevity

While there is debate about the link between happiness and longevity, some studies suggest a positive correlation. For instance, a study found that people who enjoyed life in middle age were 24% less likely to die from any cause during the study period. Andrew Steptoe of University College London, who led the study, points out that a positive outlook might contribute to better health.
By Yi Whan-woo

Korean financial regulators are under growing pressure to approve exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for crypto assets, after the U.S. securities regulator gave the green light on creation of ETFs for ethereum, Thursday (local time).

The decision made by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commissions (SEC) concerning ethereum, the worlds second-largest cryptocurrency, comes after the SEC allowed bitcoin, the worlds largest cryptocurrency to be traded as ETFs in January.

ETFs are baskets of securities that are only available for trading on the traditional securities market.

In that regard, the SECs measures in favor of bitcoin and ethereum mark a significant shift in lowering the barriers between the traditional finance and digital asset industries.

In a stark contrast, Financial Services Commission (FSC) and Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) are hesitant to open the door for trading crypto assets on the traditional securities market.

Citing the Capital Markets Act, the FSC said ETFs deal only with underlying assets, which refers to the real financial assets or the security that a financial derivative is based on. These include international currencies and commodities.

Under the circumstances, the SECs Thursday decision on ethereum is anticipated to press Seouls financial regulators to reconsider its regulations against digital assets, said Xangle, a Seoul-based data and information provider on digital currencies.

It called the ban on digital assets in the traditional securities market outdated, especially considering the government committed to boosting the undervalued Seoul stock market in the name of tackling the so-called Korea discount.

A rigid regulatory policy is considered a reason behind lower valuation of the Korean stocks compared to global peers.

Jung Eui-jung, head of the Korean Stockholders Alliance, reckoned following the U.S. path and endorsing ETFs for bitcoin and ethereum is critical in order to ensure that investors, both in traditional finance and digital assets, do not exit Korea.

Who would want to invest their money in a market that lags behind the fast-changing regulatory landscape? Jung said.

He warned that investors may pull out their cash to invest in the U.S. markets instead if the Seoul regulators continue to make little progress while the U.S. takes bigger strides and moves forward on digital assets.

It will be a matter of time for the U.S. to fully open the door for other less-traded cryptocurrencies and that Korea at least should approve ETFs for bitcoin and ethereum, Jung added.

Meanwhile, the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), in line with April general election pledgees, is anticipated to address a need to lower barriers on digital assets when the next National Assembly begins.

Separately, FSS Governor Lee Bok-hyun deemed that the mood for a public discussion on whether to allow cryptocurrencies in the traditional finance may be set up in the second half of the year.
A recent study found that nightmares and hallucinations may serve as early indicators of autoimmune diseases, particularly lupus.

Led by an international team of researchers from esteemed institutions including the University of Cambridge and King's College London, the study sheds light on the significance of neuropsychiatric symptoms in identifying potential disease flares.

Professor James Alan Bourgeois, a co-author of the study from the UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, noted the importance of recognizing these symptoms, stating, "Many people don't know that neuropsychiatric symptoms, including confusion, hallucinations and vivid nightmares, can be part of autoimmune diseases like lupus."

The research, which involved surveys of 676 lupus patients and 400 clinicians, along with detailed interviews, revealed compelling insights. Melanie Sloan, lead author of the paper and a researcher at the University of Cambridge, emphasizes the need for clinicians to address these symptoms with patients.

"Patients often know which symptoms are a bad sign that their disease is about to flare, but both patients and doctors can be reluctant to discuss mental health and neurological symptoms," Sloan remarked, UC Davis reported.

Lupus, formally known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), affects approximately 1.5 million people in the U.S. and 5 million globally, with a majority being individuals assigned female at birth. The study's findings shed light on the importance of early detection, as disruptions in dream sleep were reported by three in five patients, with a third experiencing these symptoms over a year before the onset of lupus.

Moreover, the study emphasized the significance of terminology in patient communication, noting that using the term "daymares" for hallucinations led to a better understanding among patients.

Professor David D'Cruz from King's College London, senior author of the study, stressed the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers.

"This research provides evidence of this, and we are strongly encouraging more doctors to ask about nightmares and other neuropsychiatric symptoms - thought to be unusual, but actually very common in systemic autoimmunity - to help us detect disease flares earlier," D'Cruz said.

The study published in eClinicalMedicine, a publication of The Lancet, showed the critical importance of recognizing neuropsychiatric symptoms as potential indicators of autoimmune diseases, aiming to prevent misdiagnosis and improve patient outcomes.

"If someone presents with new psychotic symptoms and has other autoimmune symptoms, and a family history of autoimmune disease, a provider is advised to clinically evaluate him or her for lupus before assuming a patient has schizophrenia or other primary psychotic disorder," Bourgeois stated.
Researchers from King's College London discovered a genetic connection between ancient viral DNA sequences and mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression.

The study, partly funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre and the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), delved into the role of Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) in psychiatric disorder susceptibility.

Dr. Timothy Powell, co-senior author of the study and Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, explained the significance of the findings, stating, "Our results suggest that these viral sequences probably play a more important role in the human brain than originally thought, with specific HERV expression profiles being associated with an increased susceptibility for some psychiatric disorders."

The research published in Nature Communications, which analyzed data from large genetic studies involving tens of thousands of individuals, alongside autopsy brain samples from 800 individuals, uncovered five robust HERV expression signatures linked to psychiatric disorders. These include sequences associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Dr. Rodrigo Duarte, first author and Research Fellow at the IoPPN, King's College London, noted the study's contribution to understanding the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders.

"Whilst it is not clear yet how these HERVs affect brain cells to confer this increase in risk, our findings suggest that their expression regulation is important for brain function," Duarte explained, as per Neuroscience News.

Dr. Douglas Nixon, co-senior author and researcher at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, also highlighted the need for further research into the function of HERVs.

"We think that a better understanding of these ancient viruses, and the known genes implicated in psychiatric disorders, have the potential to revolutionise mental health research and lead to novel ways to treat or diagnose these conditions," Nixon said.
Chad Michael Murray, celebrated for his roles in iconic noughties productions like "Gilmore Girls" and "A Cinderella Story," recently opened up about his battle with agoraphobia during the height of his fame, particularly during his tenure on "One Tree Hill" as Lucas Scott.

Opening up about his struggles, Murray, 42, disclosed an incident in Miami when he was 23, where he found himself unable to leave his hotel room due to crippling anxiety attacks. "I had an event in Miami, but I couldn't leave my hotel room," Murray shared with The Cut.

"The world felt like it was closing in; I was having anxiety attacks," he added. "Everyone starts telling you "Yes," But I was walking around with a really pained heart."

Despite his on-screen success and heartthrob status, Murray admitted feeling "far more fragile than I ever put on," emphasizing the internal turmoil he faced amid external adulation.

Agoraphobia, characterized by the NHS as a fear of situations where escape might be difficult, is often misunderstood as a fear of open spaces but actually encompasses a broader range of anxieties related to public places.

The actor admitted that his agoraphobia became a hurdle for him. Finding solace in therapy and religion at 25, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery, reflecting on his life's direction and embracing faith as a guiding force.

"I woke up and felt unsettled. I didn't like the direction that I was going in my life," he recalled. "I went to church, and I got a tattoo of a cross on my left wrist, and I was like, I'm going to move myself in faith."

"I always told myself, 'I'm doing this for my future wife and kids,' and now here they are."

"It's been the greatest chapter of my life."

Beyond his personal struggles, Murray reminisced about his tumultuous health journey as a child, enduring surgery and a near-death experience due to internal bleeding, Metro reported.

Remarkably, an encounter with a nurse during his hospital stay paved the way for his eventual entry into Hollywood.
I was interested in this place because the entire incident was captured on film by the U.S. military and released by Wikileaks as Collateral Murder. Julian Assange is in prison largely because he led the team that released this video (he has now received the right to challenge in a UK court his extradition to the United States). The video presented direct evidence of a horrific war crime.No one in our neighborhood has been untouched by the violence. We are a society that has been traumatized, Anisa said to me in the evening. Take my neighbor for instance. She lost her mother in a bombing and her husband is blind because of another bombing. The stories fill my notebook. They are endless. Every society that has experienced the kind of warfare faced by the Iraqis, and now by the Palestinians, is deeply scarred. It is hard to recover from such violence.

My Poisoned Land



A Vietnamese journalist Tran To Nga Ma terre empoisonnee (My Poisoned Land) in 2016 as a way to call attention to the atrocity that has continued to impact Vietnam over four decades after the U.S. lost the war.

Gaza These memories come back in the context of Gaza. The focus is often on the dead and of the destruction of the landscape. But there are other enduring parts of modern warfare that are hard to calculate. There is the immense sound of war, the noise of bombardment and of cries, the noises that go deep into the consciousness of young children and mark them for their entire lives.

Then there is the dust. Modern construction uses a range of toxic materials. Indeed, in 1982, the World Health Organization

Every war zone remains dangerous years after ceasefires. In the case of this war on Gaza, even a cessation of hostilities will not end the violence. In early November 2023, Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor

On the mantle of the modest living room in the apartment of Anisa and Yusuf, there is a small Palestinian flag. Next to it is a small piece of shrapnel that struck and destroyed Yusufs left eye. There is nothing else on the mantle.

--- *Indian historian, editor, and journalist; writing fellow and chief correspondent at Globetrotter; editor of LeftWord Books; a?director of Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research . Books: The Darker Nations, The Poorer Nations, Struggle Makes Us Human: Learning from Movements for Socialism, (with Noam Chomsky) The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power. This article was produced by Globetrotter

By the end of April 2024, Israel had dropped over 75,000 tons of bombs on Gaza, which would be the equivalent of six nuclear bombs. The United Nations estimates that it would take 14 years to clear the unexploded ordnance in Gaza. That means until 2038 people will be dying due to this Israeli bombardment.On the mantle of the modest living room in the apartment of Anisa and Yusuf, there is a small Palestinian flag. Next to it is a small piece of shrapnel that struck and destroyed Yusufs left eye. There is nothing else on the mantle.--- This is precisely what the children of Gaza are now breathing as the Israelis drop hundreds of these deadly bombs on residential neighborhoods. There is now over 37 million tons of debris in Gaza, large sections of it filled with toxic substances.Every war zone remains dangerous years after ceasefires. In the case of this war on Gaza, even a cessation of hostilities will not end the violence. In early November 2023, Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor estimated that the Israelis had dropped 25,000 tons of explosives on Gaza, which is the equivalent of two nuclear bombs (although, as they pointed out, Hiroshima sits on 900 square meters of land, whereas Gazas total square meters are 360). Imagine that a 2,000-pound MK84 bomb lands on a building and imagine the toxic dust that flies about and lingers both in the air and on the ground. There are children in Gaza, for example, who were born in 2006 and are now eighteen, who have seen wars at their birth in 2006, then in 2008-09, 2012, 2014, 2021, and now, 2023-24. The gaps between these major bombardments have been punctuated by smaller bombardments, as noisy and as deadly.Then there is the dust. Modern construction uses a range of toxic materials. Indeed, in 1982, the World Health Organization recognized a phenomenon called sick building syndrome, which is when a person falls ill due to the toxic material used to construct modern buildings. When her daughter was born two years later, she died in infancy from the impact of Agent Orange on Tran To Nga. The people from that village over there, my guides tell me, naming the village, birth children with severe defects generation after generation.These memories come back in the context of Gaza. The focus is often on the dead and of the destruction of the landscape. But there are other enduring parts of modern warfare that are hard to calculate. There is the immense sound of war, the noise of bombardment and of cries, the noises that go deep into the consciousness of young children and mark them for their entire lives. In her book, Tran To Nga describes how as a journalist in 1966 she was sprayed by a U.S. Air Force Fairchild C-123 with a strange chemical. She wiped it off and went ahead through the jungle, inhaling the poisons dropped from the sky. The U.S. dropped at least 74 million liters of chemicals, mostly Agent Orange, on Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, with the focus for many years being this supply line that ran from the north to the south. The spray of these chemicals struck the bodies of at least five million Vietnamese and mutilated the land.A Vietnamese journalist Tran To Nga published (My Poisoned Land) in 2016 as a way to call attention to the atrocity that has continued to impact Vietnam over four decades after the U.S. lost the war.

I am walking near the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Vietnam. My friends who are showing me the area point to the fields that surround it and say that this land has been so poisoned by the United States dropping Agent Orange that they do not think food can be produced here for generations.
Its been almost five years since a job offer to join the cast of Saturday Night Live vaulted Shane Gillis from relative obscurity to the global stage. Within a week, reporting revealed that Gillis had a history of making racist and homophobic jokes on his podcast, and the offer was withdrawn. Gillis offered a very qualified apology (which he later disavowed), and then went back to doing what hed been doing: performing live, making comedy for the internet and staying out of the mainstream cultural discourse.

Over the past year, however, Gillis has started getting back on the traditional path to comic stardom, including satisfying the requirements of industry gatekeepers. Now he has Tires, a new sitcom on Netflix, which he co-created and in which he stars. Like all his latest work, its not as bad as it could have been.

Tires certainly has problems, and Ill get into them. But as someone who didnt know Gillis at all before the SNL flap and lost track of him almost immediately afterward, I could at least respect the fact that he didnt make causing offense the centerpiece of his career, getting himself booked on the right-wing grievance circuit. The worst of the podcast highlights that scuppered his first big break might be entirely indicative of his comedy overall  I am in no position to know that  but Gillis choices since his public exposure indicate that he has serious ambitions for his future.

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He had so thoroughly sunk from my view that it took almost Gillis whole first episode of Bupkis, Peacocks short-lived autobiographical sitcom about Pete Davidson, to recognize him as Gilly, one of the thinly fictionalized buddies in Petes entourage. Considering that the show was executive produced by SNL impresario Lorne Michaels, whod presumably had a direct role in rescinding Gillis job offer, Gillis recurring guest shot was a sign of a thaw. Sure enough, a few months after Gillis first Netflix special, Beautiful Dogs, premiered on the platform, Gillis was invited to host SNL.

Gillis had joked on his podcast that after the incident, he would only darken the studio stage to kill himself on it, but as you may have heard, he made it through alive, alluding to the scandal in his monologue without apology or defiance, seeming mostly sheepish before using the time to introduce himself to a new audience with material he acknowledged was a lot more family-friendly than what he usually performs. I wont go so far as to say he seemed humble, but he at least gave the impression that he knew what a big shot this was and didnt want to squander it over politics.

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Which brings us, at last, to Tires, which has the same vibe. Gillis plays Shane, a mechanic at a regional Pennsylvania auto shop chain; his location seems to be perpetually jockeying with Belmont for second-last place in the organization, and it doesnt help that his manager for the past two months has been Will (Steve Gerben), a completely inexperienced boob who got the job by being the owners son. Both Shane and Will are closely monitored by Dave (Stavros Halkias), the unpleasant goblin who is also a spy and hatchet man for Wills dad. Customers and neighboring entrepreneurs keep the setting lively and changeable. Gillis co-created with Gerben and John McKeever (credited only by his surname), self-funding the production before selling it to Netflix.

I went into Tires with an open mind, prepared to enjoy a story about working-class life told without romanticism or condescension. There are solid jokes starting right in the pilot, which revolves around Wills ill-considered initiative to attract more female customers as well as his Michael Scott-esque decision to announce it to a local journalist before seeing whether its actually going to work. Meanwhile, a tense Will gets drawn into a trap of a conversation about the neighboring Andiamo Brothers new receptionist and her hot balboas before staffer Kilah (Kilah Fox) crushes her foot with a tire and admits to using up her sick days on nonsense like not being able to get the makeup off after an Insane Clown Posse Show.

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The characters and setting feel lived-in, probably because Gillis and his collaborators have hired people they know and like as opposed to, lets say, the most talented actors they could possibly get. For a show that spends three of its six episodes establishing that Shane wants to put on a bikini car wash, holding the bikini car wash and then dealing with the aftermath of the bikini car wash, docudrama-caliber realism isnt required.

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I just wish Tires didnt have to be so crass. Casually tossing an f-slur in the series premiere makes a strong statement, and not a welcoming one; consistently calling the Andiamo Brothers wops feels more antiquated than offensive. Gillis has a ton of natural charm, and gets his own Michael Scott moments showing hes good at his job and has good instincts dealing with the public, but would someone who eventually finds out hes working at a potentially dying store location in a possibly dying town work so hard to bring its fortunes even lower by, for instance, embarrassing Will with sex noises on the store-wide PA?

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The show was already renewed for a second season before the first premiered (assumedly because it cost nothing to make, judging by the looks of it), so the creative team have the opportunity to nail down what kind of workplace comedy they want it to be as opposed to just one with a lot of yelling and references to characters various smells.

Either way, Gillis career rehabilitation is going to continue. And after watching Tires, I dont think its unjustified. In fact, if he refined his taste just a little for Season Two and beyond, that would be a pretty impressive gag.
It aint easy being a stand-up comic. Unruly audience members throw beer bottles at comedians. They challenge Mike Tyson to fights. They tackle Dave Chappelle. They even stomp onstage at the Oscars to deliver open-handed slaps. Jim Jefferies knows all about it  hes been punched by a heckler. Twice.

If you Google Jim Jefferies punched, you will see what people do with me when they heckle, Jefferies told Australias Channel 7's Sunrise. Sure enough  slug those search terms into the ol Google machine and the mayhem is there for all to see.

The scuffle that was caught on film went down in 2007. Chortle reported that the attacker, described by another audience member as a hard little guy, got bent out of shape when Jefferies clapped back at another heckler. The assailant reportedly didnt know the woman, but Jefferies did go after her pretty hard, saying something along the lines of Ill leave you alone now, just like your dad did. Shame your grandfather didnt. Oof.

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That earned an initial insult from Hard Little Guy, who stormed out to the bar where he presumably downed a shot of courage. A few minutes later, he stormed the stage, dealing a blow that left Jefferies with a black eye. Security quickly pounced and police hauled the heckler to the pokey. Jefferies literally had the last laugh, returning to the stage for an encore.

Jefferies offered few details about Punch #2, only offering that he isnt the best at dealing with hecklers. He never spoke to the 2007 attacker after the incident but perhaps he should have at least sent the guy a thank you note. After the YouTube video went viral, Jefferies says, his tour began selling out everywhere he went, making for one lucrative black eye.

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Speaking of disruptive audience members, Jefferies gave a spirited defense of fellow comedian Arj Barker, who made headlines earlier this year when he asked a nursing mother to take her disruptively noisy baby outside.

I couldn't believe this was even an argument that poor Arj Barker got in trouble because someone was breastfeeding in the show, Jefferies said. It's an adult show you are going to. It's not like if you went to a strip club. I was trying to breastfeed me baby in the strip club and everyone got upset at me. No, of course you aren't meant to have kids there.

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Barker has reached out to the mother to make peace, suggesting they go 50-50 on the movie rights. Hes also offered the baby a comp ticket to a future stand-up show, post-dated 2039.

Any parents thinking about bringing their whinging babies to a Jefferies show, however, should think twice. No children in my shows, I swear a lot! the comic said, adding, Of course, you're not meant to have babies.
Staff Data Breach: British Police Could Be Fined 750k

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) could be fined 750,000 for a major data breach last year after mistakenly disclosing the names of all 9,483 serving officers and staff in a spreadsheet published online. It was subsequently confirmed that the information was in the hands of potentially deadly dissident Republicans.

While the PSNI has said it cannot afford such a fine, however if ir were not a public body, the fine would have been in the millions. The British data regulator, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), has announced that the proposed fine could be imposed on the PSNI "for failing to protect the personal information of its entire workforce".

The breach happened when police answered a Freedom of Information request and information was published online about the PSNI's 9,483 policing and civilian employees and the personal information included the surname, initials, rank, and role of all serving PSNI officers and staff.

In provisional findings announced recently, UK Information Commissioner John Edwards said: The sensitivities in Northern Ireland and the unprecedented nature of this breach created a perfect storm of risk and harm, and show how damaging poor data security can be." He added: Throughout our investigation, we heard many harrowing stories about the impact this avoidable error has had on peoples lives, from having to move house, to cutting themselves off from family members and completely altering their daily routines because of the tangible fear of threat to life."

The proposed fine is provisional to allow the PSNI to make representations before a final decision.Mr Edwards also revealed that the potential fine could have been 5.6m, but he used discretion to significantly reduce the amount to ensure public money is not diverted from where it is most needed.

The ICO has issued the PSNI with a preliminary enforcement notice requiring the police service to improve the security of personal information when responding to Freedom of Information requests.

The PSNI Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher, has previously announced that every PSNI officer and staff member would be offered a one-off payment of 500 to help with home security measures following the data breach. The incident contributed to the resignation of the previous Chief Constable who has now left the force.

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By Anna J. Park

KB Kookmin Bank has been selected as the top domestic commercial bank for the 12th consecutive year in the Best Korea Brands 2024 ranking presented by Interbrand, the bank announced earlier this week.

Interbrand, the world's largest brand consulting group, has been annually announcing the top 50 Best Korea Brands since 2013.

Out of the 50 brands this year, KB Kookmin Bank secured the eighth spot, with the lender's brand value estimated to have increased by 3.9 percent compared to last year, reaching 3.4 trillion won ($2.5 billion).

The bank followed Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, Kia, Naver, LG Electronics, SK Telecom and Samsung Life in the rankings.

Shinhan Bank immediately trailed KB Kookmin Bank as it is ranked ninth. Hana Bank and Woori Bank ranked 12th and 16th respectively.

The Best Korea Brands ranking relies on the same evaluation criteria and methodology that Interbrand utilizes in selecting its Top 100 Brands in the World ranking.

KB Financial Group, the holding company of the bank, was ranked first among Korean financial companies in the Banking 500 list announced In March by U.K.-headquartered Brand Finance Banking 500.

KB Financial's brand value was calculated at approximately 7.2 trillion won, up by 16.7 percent compared to last year, taking the highest spot among domestic financial institutions and 63rd place among global financial institutions.

KB Kookmin Bank also announced Friday that it has been selected as Best Custodian Bank in South Korea for the 10th consecutive year at the Asian Banker Financial Markets Awards 2024, hosted by the Asian Banker in Singapore, Thursday.
Foreign currency deposits declined for the fourth straight month in April as companies withdrew part of U.S. dollar-denominated deposits amid the weakening won, central bank data showed Friday.

Residents' outstanding foreign currency-denominated deposits reached $91.35 billion at end-April, down $3.66 billion from the previous month, according to the data from the Bank of Korea (BOK).

Residents include local citizens, foreigners who have stayed in Korea for more than six months and foreign companies. The data excludes interbank foreign currency deposits.

By currency, dollar-denominated deposits fell by $3.26 billion to $74.33 billion, and Japanese yen-denominated deposits declined by $110 million to $9.71 billion last month.

Euro-denominated deposits also fell by $550 million to $4.82 billion, and Chinese yuan-denominated deposits fell by $100 million to $910 million, according to the data.

Corporate deposits came to $76.51 billion as of April, down $3.54 billion from the previous month, with individual holdings falling by $120 million to $14.84 billion. (Yonhap)
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South Korea imposed Friday independent sanctions on seven North Koreans and two Russian vessels for engaging in illicit weapons and fuel trade with Russia and other activities in violation of U.N. sanctions.

The latest move came as South Korea seeks to step up efforts to curb the North's activities banned under multiple U.N. Security Council (UNSC) resolutions after a U.N. panel monitoring the enforcement of North Korean sanctions ended at the end of last month after Russia vetoed the resolution on extending the panel's mandate.

Rim Yong-hyok, head of the Syrian unit of the Korea Mining and Development Trading Corp., a major North Korean arms dealer, is among the seven North Koreans.

Rim is suspected of involvement in the illegal trade of weapons and arms equipment with Russia. He was cited in the U.N. panel's March report on North Korean sanctions implementation as a man who handled weapons deals with Russia's Wagner mercenary group.

Han Hyok-chol, head of Taeryong Trading Co., is accused of bringing Russian diesel into North Korea. Under the Resolution 2397 adopted by the UNSC in 2017, U.N. member states are prohibited from exporting more than 4 million barrels of crude oil and 500,000 barrels of refined oil to the North annually.

The five others are: Kim Jong-gil, Jang Ho-yong, Ri Kyong-sik, Ri yong-min and Park Kwang-hyok. They are believed to have worked illegally at IT companies in Vladivostok in Russia's Far East to earn hard currency to fund the state's nuclear and missile programs -- also banned under the Resolution 2375.

The two Russian vessels comprise MAIA-1 and MARIA that are suspected of transporting containers loaded with military supplies to and from North Korea and Russia.

The sanctioned vessels need special approval from South Korean port authorities if they wish to enter a South Korean port. (Yonhap)
The chairman of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly met with a visiting Russian delegation in Pyongyang earlier this week, North Korea's state media reported Friday, the latest in a series of deepening exchanges between the two countries following a summit of their leaders in September.

The meeting between Pak In-chol and the delegation led by Grigoriy Rapota, a member of the International Affairs Committee of Russia's Federation Council and chairman of the Russia-North Korea friendship parliamentary group, took place at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang on Thursday, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

Participants also included Alexander Matsegora, the Russian ambassador to North Korea, the KCNA reported.

The delegation arrived in Pyongyang on Monday for a five-day trip.

The Russian Embassy in North Korea earlier shared news, saying the two sides will discuss issues of parliamentary interaction and outline plans for future contacts during the stay.

The delegation's visit came as North Korea and Russia have been expanding cooperation in a range of areas following the rare summit between their leaders in September. (Yonhap)
Finally, finally, finally. Like an old parcel lost in the post, Paula Vennells made her appearance at the Post Office Inquiry in London.

The former CEO has not spoken in public about the Horizon IT scandal for over a decade, even though it is widely believed to be the biggest miscarriage of justice in British history.

Hundreds of innocent men and women were wrongly convicted of crimes under her watch; some were eventually sent to jail after being falsely accused of stealing. There were at least four suicides. Lives were ruined. Reputations and relationships shattered, never to be repaired.

Little wonder the public gallery at Aldwych House was filled with more than 100 sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses. They have waited decades to hear Vennells properly account for herself and the organisation she presided over for seven crucial, chaotic years between 2012 and 2019.

And what happened when she began giving evidence? Paula promptly started crying  but who were her tears for? Herself, of course.

Former Post Office boss Paula Vennells wipes her tears as she gives evidence at the Post Office Inquiry

Paula Vennells' memory is selective, to say the least, writes Jan Moir. Perhaps it will win her another CBE, this time for devotion and services to obfuscation

Yet the 65-year-old executive was never wrongly accused of being a thief and a criminal. And there were no tears from her when many who worked for her were wrongly criminalised or had their lives destroyed. Or when, in a dystopian nightmare that is still hard to believe, hundreds of sub-postmasters were prosecuted by the Post Office and forced to pay back Post Office money they had not stolen from the Post Office in the first place.

Instead, she was busy receiving 3 million in scrumptious bonuses, trying to keep the Horizon scandal off newspaper front pages and accepting a lovely CBE, since handed back. It is never pleasant seeing anyone cry, but Paula's tears elicited about as much sympathy as acid rain.

Jason Beer KC, counsel to the inquiry, had some seasoned advice. 'Rather than trying to talk through your tears,' he told Mrs Vennells early in the proceedings, 'just pause, try to compose yourself if you can, and then continue your evidence, please.'

Paula grabbed a Kleenex Balsam, mopped her eyes and nodded. She would try her best. And you had to hand it to her, she really did.

For when she wasn't crying, she was blaming everyone else, particularly her luckless legal team. 'I can't really comment on the criminal or legal side of things, I am not a lawyer,' she said primly. 'I took advice from the legal team and the lawyers,' she insisted. 'I was relying very heavily on the legal team to lead and advise,' she protested.

And when she wasn't throwing her lawyers under the bus, she was scrambling together a defence of sorts. One that not only shone the best possible light on her actions, but perhaps was even worthy of  whisper it  a halo. 'I was too trusting,' she said, shamelessly.

Paula Vennells arrives at Aldwych House in London to testify at the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry

Former sub-postmaster Alan Bates leaves the inquiry after hearing Paula Vennells give evidence

Mrs Vennells is an ordained Anglican priest and was once even shortlisted to be the Bishop of London. If she knows her scriptures, she knows that cursed be the woman who trusts too much, for looketh where she has ended up  at the wrong end of a public inquiry, Bible-deep in the damning accusations of others.

Occasionally she was stunned into silence by Beer's line of questioning. 'How could an individual case indicate systemic problems?' he wondered. 'I'm not sure that I can answer that,' she said after a long pause. Indeed.

However, apart from the early-onset sobs, Paula Vennells was as dry as a stick and hard to like.

A tiny sparrow of a woman with bloodless hands and boyish cropped hair, she favoured sludge-coloured separates and a bearing she perhaps hoped was still commanding.

T here can hardly be a corporate reputation more shredded than hers, yet there were moments when she clung to the status and rank her former life once afforded.

'That is not how I operate,' she said, rather grandly. 'I am happy to accept that,' she would nod, as we waded through the statements given by Alice or Donald or Susan or any number of hapless lieutenants. 'This is an important point,' she told Beer. 'I know, that is why I am asking you about it,' he deadpanned.

Vennells' memory is selective, to say the least. Perhaps it will win her another CBE, this time for devotion and services to obfuscation. 'I don't remember,' she would say.

More verbatim gems from my notebook: 'I wasn't consulted about that; I do not recall; I wasn't involved in that conversation; I personally did not know that; I'm not sure, it is not a term that I would use; I wasn't told about it; I didn't see it; I'm not entirely sure; I have no recall of this at all; I don't think so; that is not what I understood; I don't know that I can answer that question; I don't believe so; to be honest, I don't know; I wasn't involved; I can't help you; I don't know; I don't remember; I don't recall; I don't remember having any conversation about that; I'm not entirely clear; my recollection on that is that I don't recall it; that I cannot remember; I'm not entirely sure; if that conversation took place at all, I wasn't involved in it; I am not entirely sure; I don't recall making a conscious decision.'

It is amazing how someone with such a powerful lack of recall rose so high up the corporate ladder. Or perhaps she really is, in the mocking words of Jason Beer, 'the unluckiest CEO in Britain'.

While Paula Vennells continues her evidence, many are hoping that this inquiry will bring clarity to one of the murkiest episodes in recent history.

Yet will it ever be able to explain the repellent and pitiless behaviour of so many Post Office executives over so many years? Even now, in the sober surrounds of Aldwych House, the moral urgency has been centred on all involved protecting themselves instead of righting their terrible wrongs.

And we are being asked to believe that on her own little lifeboat, stuffed with memory-lapse excuses and burdened by her chronic trust issues, Paula did not see the suffering on the giant ship of despair that steamed past, over and over again. Perhaps she was blinded by her own salt tears?

The inquiry continues, but if this really is the biggest miscarriage of modern times, when is it going to end up where it belongs  in a criminal court?

Whoa there, Kev!

Darling Kevin Costner rode into Cannes with a cowboy swagger, making finger pistols on the red carpet and sporting a Yosemite Sam moustache.

He has remortgaged his home to put 16 million of his own money into a cowboy movie anthology with a three-hour long opening part. I'm beginning to understand why his wife left him.

Kevin Costner in Cannes with his co-star Sienna Miller attending the Horizon: An American Saga red carpet earlier this week

Horizon: An American Saga  Chapter 1 is Costner's western epic which he co-wrote, directed, produced and of course, stars in, too. He didn't even pay himself and it still cost 70 million. The Cannes audience gave it a ten-minute standing ovation, but perhaps they were just trying to get their blood circulating again.

The critics have not been kind. 'A numbingly long, incoherent disaster,' wrote one. 'A clumsy slog beyond saving,' said another. Costner is nearly 70, but clearly in the grip of a marvellous, mad obsession.

'I don't know why it was so hard to get people to believe in the movie,' he said this week. Someone stop him, before it's too late.

Is it security or privacy that's Harry obsession?

So now we know. King Charles did reportedly offer Prince Harry a bed during his recent trip to London. However, Harry allegedly chose to stay in a hotel due to security concerns.

But is it security or privacy that is Harry's true obsession? Why stay in a hotel or a friend's house instead of a royal residence if you are worried about your personal safety? The latter have the most sophisticated security systems in the entire country  and I can personally vouch for this fact.

Back in 2009 I was the first paying customer to book into Llwynywermod, King Charles's official residence in Wales, during the brief time it was also run as a holiday let.

Prince Harry was reportedly offered a bed by King Charles during his recent trip to London. But Harry allegedly chose to stay in a hotel due to security concerns

There were many plus points in this luxury countryside home  the lovely Welsh blankets, the Duchy monogrammed cups, the fruit cake supplied by Charles himself  but my dears, the security! The royal estate had heat-seeking sensors tracking your every move, both indoors and outside.

At one point in the evening several police cars screeched to a halt on the gravel drive, followed by a hammering on the door. 'Who are you? State your business,' bellowed a Welsh sergeant shining a torch in my face as uniformed bobbies thundered around behind him. It was absolutely thrilling.

Of course, this was a false emergency. One of the Llwynywermod alarms, which are hooked up to the local police station, had gone off. It indicated that the phone wires had been cut and an intruder was on the premises.

Utterly madly exciting, if untrue. Yet that is how specific and sophisticated the system was  and that was 15 years ago.

What has Harry got to fear? Only himself.

Even Iain Duncan Smith struggled to defend the deranged decision for Rishi Sunak to make his election declaration outside in a Downing Street downpour. 'Mmm, a more modern concept, a little bit mmm... puzzling,' he said, of the alfresco fiasco. Drowning in ominous symbolism already. And that was only day one.

That new portrait of the Princess of Wales  are we just all going to pretend it is not terrible?

In the painting by British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor, Kate is depicted against a blue background and wears the floor length cape dress she wore to a State Banquet for the South African president in November 2023.

It has its merits, it is supposed to show strength and grace and there is an element of regal poise, but is it really worthy of a Tatler magazine cover and a place in our hearts?
The General Election on July 4 won't only be a clash between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer.

Beneath this public scramble for power, another battle is brewing, one that could prove to be even more bitter  more savage  than the fight for the crown of government.

It's the war for the soul of the Conservatives between the new 'wets' and the more traditionalist wing of the party.

Between woke Conservatives who think the party must relentlessly modernise and their conventional counterparts who cleave to the values and virtues of the past.

Between self-consciously trendy Tories who love the EU and put their pronouns in their social-media bios and Tories who think cutting taxes and securing borders are a tad more important than such trivial posturing.

Michael Heseltine and Margaret Thatcher at the 1981 Tory party conference

As manifestos are hastily drafted, these rival factions are battling it out behind the scenes.

And if the wets win and the Conservatives become a slightly more right-wing version of Labour, then British politics would be utterly drained of choice. All we would have to choose between is two shades of political correctness, two versions of the same soulless worldview, two different spouters of elite consensus opinion.

If the wets win, the rest of us lose.

Rain-soaked Rishi did his best this week to pitch the forthcoming election as a clash between parties with very different visions for the future.

'Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future,' he said, his suit drenched with rain, his face etched with self-doubt.

He could just as easily have applied those words to the party he leads. A party where you can bump into a 'trans-friendly' Remoaner one day and a gender-critical Brexiteer the next.

I would go so far as to say that the ideological tensions within the Conservative Party are deeper than the ideological tensions between the Conservatives and Labour.

Hang out with the Tories for a day and you might meet someone like Michael Heseltine  wet back then, wet now  who warbles about Brexit being a 'disaster'. And five minutes later you might rub shoulders with Jacob Rees-Mogg, who loves Brexit.

You might mingle with Maria Miller one minute, the former Minister for Women and Equalities who did so much to push 'gender self-ID'  the nonsense notion that everyone should get to choose their own sex.

And the next minute you might be chinwagging with the brilliant Kemi Badenoch, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, who has led a one-woman crusade for a recognition of the reality of biological sex and the right of women to have their own spaces.

Of course, it is healthy for political parties to debate things, to tussle internally over priorities and policies. The Tory Party has always been a broad church, which is part of the secret of its lasting, election-winning appeal.

The question now is who will win out: the wets who bristle at Brexit and worship wokeness, or the traditionalists who back Brexit and recognise that progressive nostrums pose a grave threat to truth and common sense?

It can't be the wets. It can't be that element of the party who are basically Starmerites who once read some Edmund Burke. It can't be the wing that would drag us back to Brussels given half a chance and who probably mutter darkly about 'gammon' voters as they share a chardonnay in the Commons bar.

Rain-soaked Rishi Sunak did his best this week to pitch the forthcoming election as a clash between parties with very different visions for the future

No, if the greatest election-winning machine in British history is to go on to win again, then the wets must not be allowed to seize the initiative.

Sense must prevail, reason must rise, and the Conservative Party has to be, well, conservative.

That's why it's time the Tories put forward a singular vision, one that will connect with the silent majority who've had enough of the woke derangement and Brexit-bashing of the smug elites.

The Conservatives need to find their spine. They need to remember that they were returned to power in 2019 precisely in order to shake up the system.

That tidal wave of votes for Boris Johnson was a plea from the people to 'Get Brexit done' and make a success of it. To clip the wings of the arrogant Whitehall blob. To keep wokeness in check. To stand up for British history and British values against a self-loathing cultural elite bent on tearing down statues and brainwashing kids to think of Britain as a racist hellhole.

The Conservatives literally have a democratic mandate to be daring. Do they have it in them  even at this late stage  to live up to that mandate?

Here's what they need to do. Instead of following Labour down the dull, media- pleasing technocratic route, they need to distinguish themselves  forcefully.

They should make clear their commitment to making Brexit Britain a global powerhouse of free trade. A truly independent nation willing to write its own fate.

They should loudly defend Britain's sovereign integrity. That means fortifying our borders and strengthening our defence systems. It means no more border chaos at Dover and no more anti-male discrimination in our military forces. It means standing up for Britain's territorial sanctity and existential safety.

They must stand up to the anti-Israel hate mob and make clear that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies who are defending Western civilisation from the menaces of violent extremism. A serious, non-wet Tory Party will not abandon Israel in her gravest hour of need.

They should confront the 'multicultural' separatism and Islamic radicalism that threaten to tear our country apart.

These scourges have worsened since Hamas's pogrom of October 7.

We've seen young people on the streets of our cities singing Hamas's praises and even demanding 'jihad' against the Jewish State.

A Conservative Party worth the name would be making far more noise about such antisocial, anti-civilisational behaviour.

It would be loudly making the case for Western society against the extremists who wish to destroy it.

Then there's the economy. Conservatives should know what to do here. It's not rocket science.

The party should commit  in clear, measurable terms, not airy promises  to cutting taxes. To leaving more of our money in our pockets. To building the new homes that Britain needs. To genuinely 'levelling up' left- behind communities.

And, most importantly, to wriggling free of the cult of Net Zero that imposes so many onerous blocks on economic growth. Can Rishi do this? See off all the cranky ideologies that chip away at genuine conservatism and hurt ordinary people? We will see.

One thing he needs to acknowledge, as a matter of urgency, is this: today's Tory wets are an even bigger threat to the party and the nation than the wets Thatcher had to contend with in the 1980s.

Tory wets back then mostly kicked up a fuss about Thatcher's monetary policy and her slashing of public spending. These were economic clashes: Important, yes, but not the end of the world.

Today's wets are calling into question so much more. Britain's right to govern itself, the importance of borders, the reality of sex, even truth itself.

Sunak needs to go to the voters with a crystal-clear message. He needs to convince us that his party is on our side.
No, I dont believe these opinion polls for one second. I dont believe that Labour will maintain anything like this lead, as polling day approaches on July 4.

Here is why: I just cannot believe that the British people would be so utterly mad as to hand Keir Starmer a majority on this scale.

According to one poll I saw yesterday, the Tories would be reduced to 11 seats. If that were really the case, then the entire parliamentary Conservative Party could be accommodated, if they were prepared to snuggle up, in my 31-year-old Toyota Previa.

It is simply not going to happen. This election will be much closer than currently forecast, because when people actually suck their teeth and consider the possibilities, they will hesitate deeply before opening the bilges and pumping parliament full of hundreds and hundreds of unknown Left-wing Labour MPs.

Starmer's biggest achievement, so far, has been to keep the focus off Labour, and to moan, in his best Captain Hindsight way, about the failings of the Tory Government

Not when Europe is still in the grip of the worst war for 80 years  and when the Labour front bench is already full of ban-the-bomb unilateral disarmers who were at least once willing to subject this country to perpetual Russian nuclear blackmail (step forward David Lammy et al).

Not when taxes are already so high  and when Labour is blatantly planning to reverse the current Tory reductions, and to push them higher.

Not when illegal immigration is so tough to crack  and the Labour plan is essentially to throw in the sponge and let the boats come.

Not when Starmer himself is placed under the examination he deserves and has so far avoided  because there is no doubt that he would be the most dangerous and Left-wing Labour prime minister since the 1970s.

Starmers biggest achievement, so far, has been to keep the focus off Labour, and to moan, in his best Captain Hindsight way, about the failings of the Tory Government. Well, the one advantage of an election period is that the Opposition lose the luxury of obfuscation.

The spotlight is on them  and we already know enough to see that if Labour gets in, they have 10billion a year, at least, of unfunded spending commitments. Starmer and his Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves have been licking their lips vampirically as they prepare for a wealth tax. But that wont be anything like enough.

From the moment Starmer took over as Leader of the Opposition, he has been a pathetic captive of the woke tyranny

They will come for your pensions, and your inheritances, and yes, they will come for your incomes  because their stated plans allow for no alternative. How will they spend it?

On welfare, we are told, on restoring benefits for families that have many children, for instance. They will spend more taxpayers money undoing some of the painful reforms that the Tories enacted, and that have helped this country to create such a phenomenal number of jobs.

I dont believe that there is a single reputable economist around the world who believes that the answer now to the UKs productivity problems is to raise taxes in order to spend on welfare payments.

You dont promote growth, you dont make people richer, by spending yet more money on welfare. But that is what lefties do.

Anyone who does the job of Prime Minister will rapidly discover that we face big and long-term decisions, which cannot be shirked

I dont believe there is a single reputable economist who believes that you can fix the problems of the housing market by attacking the private sector. Like so many North London lefties, Starmer has the benefit of owning his multi-million-pound house, but like so many London lefties he seems to hate the idea of home ownership by anyone else.

A Labour government would follow the ghastly precepts of London mayor Sadiq Khan, and thwart good developments by insisting on minimum quotas for social rented housing. The result is always the same: fewer homes actually get built under Labour.

Now, Rachel Reeves says that she wants a cap on private-sector rents. It is a terrible policy. It has always failed. The Vietnamese communists tried it, and the foreign minister later said that it had done more damage to the fabric of the city of Hanoi than the United States Air Force.

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So why try it again? Because thats what lefties do.

Starmer would follow Sadiq Khan in being weak on crime, not just cutting sentences for violent and dangerous criminals, but frustrating such essential crime-fighting procedures as stop and search.

Why would he allow kids to go around the streets with knives, rather than allowing the police to take them? Because that is just what lefties do.

From the moment Starmer took over as Leader of the Opposition, he has been a pathetic captive of the woke tyranny  a tyranny that stifles common sense and that forces people to start spouting blank nonsense.

He took the knee during the Black Lives Matter campaign  even though he was effectively supporting an American lobby group that wanted to cancel funding for the police. He started claiming  in defiance of the biological evidence  that women could have male genitalia, without realising that he was infuriating many who have long campaigned for the rights and protection of women.

He was still in such a muddle about it this week that he held a campaign launch in Kent, but failed to invite the local Labour MP, Rosie Duffield, perhaps because she does not share his bizarre gonadal theories.

Why does he behave like this? Because he is a woke lefty lawyer from North London  he doesnt even eat meat, only fish (NB British farmers). It is precisely because he is a woke lefty lawyer from North London that he will do nothing to fix the problem of illegal immigration  because it is people like him, after all, who are the main cause of the problem.

He has said he will scrap the Rwanda policy, even though it is the only plan that has a chance of offering a serious deterrent to the people-smuggling gangs; even though a version has worked in Australia; and even though there are many other European and other Western countries who are now adopting it, some of them also entering into discussions with Rwanda.

On the contrary, he claims the answer lies in our relations with the EU  and we all know where that will lead. Give this man a big majority, and he will do what he tried to do dozens of times as Shadow Brexit Secretary, namely to reverse or frustrate the will of the people.

It is clear that there is a large majority of Starmerites who want to go back into the EU single market, as a first step before trying to get us back into the EU. That would be a total disaster.

Rejoining the Single Market would mean rule from Brussels, and yet with no British say in the decisions of the EU. And the first step would be to restore free movement for EU citizens  meaning that all 448 million citizens of the EU, and anyone else who happened to be in the EU at the time, would have unfettered access to Britain.

Starmer also says that he wants to take Britain back inside the European Common Foreign and Security Policy. Let me just remind you: if we had stayed in the Single Market system we would never have been able to license the Covid vaccines faster than any other European country, and so deliver the fastest vaccine roll-out of any major economy.

If we had stayed in the EU Common Foreign Policy, then we would have been in the wretched position of allowing France and Germany to continue to take the lead on Ukraine  and in February 2022, that would have been far from ideal.

Today, we have to do even more to help Ukraine, and to stand up to Putin. We should be doing more, as President Zelensky requests, to help the Ukrainians shoot down some of the missiles that are killing so many innocent civilians. Does Starmers Labour really have the bottle?

Anyone who does the job of Prime Minister will rapidly discover that we face big and long-term decisions, which cannot be shirked, about Britains own nuclear deterrent. But David Lammy  seemingly about to be our Foreign Secretary  voted against Trident. This is a serious, serious problem.

Around the world we face challenges to British interests, from countries that contest our sovereignty. Will Starmer and Lammy stand up for British sovereignty over the strategically crucial British Indian Ocean Territories? Will they stand up for Gibraltar?

They should be brutally interrogated on all these points during the campaign  but whatever they say I fear I know the answer. We have already seen that Starmer and Lammy are completely unable to think straight on the biggest issues of our time  such as Israels miserable and protracted campaign to prevent Hamas from committing further massacres.

The other day Lammy effectively pronounced a moral equivalence between the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the terrorist leader of Hamas, Yahya Sinwar. He said that they should both be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court.

Is he really incapable of seeing the difference between the Israeli government and Hamas? Does he really equate the hideous rapes and torture and mutilations of October 7 with what the Israel Defense Forces are trying to do?

Have the brains of Lammy and Starmer turned to complete mush? Or if Starmer disagrees with Lammy, why hasnt he sacked him?

What are his real views? Today he wraps himself so tightly in the Union Jack that he looks like Ginger Spices leotard  and yet it wasnt so long ago that Starmer was an avowed republican, who wanted to abolish the Queen.

He always brags about his time as head of Crown Prosecution Service, and how he takes responsibility for everything that took place on his watch  except of course for the failure to prosecute the paedophile, necrophiliac and BBC superstar, Jimmy Savile. Just, as they say, sayin'...

People treat this point as a taboo, an unmentionable. But lets face it, if others had that kind of failure on their CV (a Tory, for instance) it would be thought at least worthy of comment.

He was helped by a bursary at his fee-paying school  and yet now he wants to kick away the same ladder of opportunity from other children, by whacking private education with VAT at 20 per cent.

Everywhere you look, Starmers Labour loves to punish aspiration, to expropriate the rewards of effort, and to snatch away opportunity. They are emphatically not what this country needs now; and yet anything other than a vote for the Conservatives  including a vote for Reform  is effectively a vote for the miserabilism of Labour.

Step back, and look at the big picture.

In 2019 the Conservatives won a big majority because we had a fantastic plan, to get Brexit done, and use Brexit freedoms to unite and level up the country, with skills, infrastructure, technology, and a green industrial revolution. And we had the fiscal space to stimulate growth by cutting taxes as well as regulation.

Then came Covid. We had to spend hundreds of billions. We had to restrict freedoms in ways that we never imagined. You can disagree with lockdown, but most people I meet understand that it was the only way  before vaccines  to save the lives of many older and vulnerable people.

I think most people can see that what we did was probably sensible and unavoidable. But at every stage, believe me, the Labour Party under Starmer wanted to go further: to lock down longer, to spend more on benefits, to take more control for the state, and to rack up an even bigger bill for the taxpayer.

It is now urgent, essential, that we put that era behind us. Every other country in the developed world can see that it is time to reduce the role of big government in peoples lives, to promote growth, to give people more chance to spend their own money and buy their own homes and run their own lives.

In most other countries, people are going for the centre-Right, not the Left.

So why on earth are we about to lurch left, as if under the hypnosis of the political pendulum?

People need to snap out of it, now. Wake up. Look at Starmer  and never mind your exasperation with recent politics  save this country from socialism on July 4.

Socialism of the Starmer kind has never worked in this country, and it is frankly the last thing we need now.
Donald Trump held a campaign rally in the South Bronx on Thursday night. It would be hard to find another part of America less Republican than this once notorious New York borough, which is overwhelmingly black and Hispanic  and which voted 85 per cent for Joe Biden in 2020.

The Bronx was also once synonymous with urban squalor, decay and lawlessness. Many years ago, when most New Yorkers regarded it as a no-go area, I rather foolishly managed to get lost there while driving out of the city with a friend en route to Vermont.

We found ourselves in the midst of block after block of urban devastation that made the old Glasgow Gorbals' tenement slums look somewhat plush. I spotted a police station, which seemed the safest place to seek directions.

We approached the duty desk. The cop looked at us suspiciously, then incredulously when he heard our British accents. I doubt he ever expected to meet two idiot white limeys in his precinct.

He pulled a pump-action shotgun from under the desk but  phew!  used it only as a pointer for the huge map behind him. He showed us the quickest way back to the interstate highway and growled: 'You stay on this highway 'til you've left the borough. Got it?'

Donald Trump may find support in the unlikeliest voter demographic - the black and hHispanic communities.

Could Trump come back for another term? His rally in the South Bronx on Thursday night drew a big crowd.

We got it. As we left I realised we'd been in 'Fort Apache', so dubbed because it was surrounded by 'hostiles' and about to become the most famous police station in the world when a motion picture of the same name was released starring Paul Newman.

The Bronx has enjoyed something of a renaissance since then. It boasts pleasant residential quarters and increasing middle-class prosperity. Of course, it won't be voting Republican in the presidential election in November. But that wasn't the purpose of the Trump rally.

Rather, it was to show that no part of America is out of bounds for his brand of Right-wing populism  and to underscore the fact that he is making big inroads into the black and Hispanic vote, traditionally the reliable core of Democratic support, even in the most ethnically diverse of areas.

Trump's campaign managers, not sure how the evening would go, had secured a licence for a venue with a 3,500 capacity in a Bronx park. It was packed full, long before he began speaking and thousands more gathered outside trying to hear what he had to say.

True, there were more white folks than you'd normally find even in today's spruced-up Bronx. But the audience was still probably the most diverse ever at a Trump campaign event.

Democratic strategists are increasingly concerned about Trump's growing appeal to ethnic minorities. According to recent polls, nationwide support for the former president has more than doubled among black voters to 22 per cent from the 9 per cent he's reckoned to have won in 2020.

Republican strategists say it could be closer to 30 per cent come election day (November 5). Not an unreasonable forecast given that Trump's support among younger black people aged 18-49 already stands at 25 per cent.

Biden, of course, will still win a comfortable majority among black voters. But that's not the point. The President requires overwhelming support from them to be re-elected. If Trump can chip away at that, especially in the swing states, then Biden's chances of victory are seriously reduced.

According to recent polls, nationwide support for the former president has more than doubled among black voters to 22 per cent from 9 per cent.

The audience at the rally this week was one of the most diverse yet at a Trump campaign event.

Team Biden knows that. Last Sunday he spoke in Detroit at a swanky dinner for the black establishment of Michigan, a swing state he has to win. But this is in some doubt because its relatively large Muslim population is disillusioned with his support for Israel.

Biden was honest. He told his audience of black powerbrokers it was black votes that had made him President in 2020 and he needs them again in huge numbers to win a second time. Earlier that day he'd spoken at an historically black college in Atlanta, where he pandered, somewhat shamelessly, to the sense of victimhood many blacks feel in America.

It's a measure of the panic in Democratic circles that the party has just released a commercial for digital platforms and TV stations in the swing states depicting Trump as a white supremacist who hates black people.

There's even a soundbite of him saying 'Of course I hate these people', a disingenuous use of a clip that comes from a 1989 CNN interview in which he was referring to black youths accused of a brutal rape in New York's Central Park.

It's not clear that the old Democratic pitch to American blacks resonates any more. Only 30 per cent of white liberals  the sort of folks who still determine Democratic policy  think crime is a major issue; more than 70 per cent of working-class and middle-class blacks think it is.

Nor is Biden's inability to control the border with Mexico popular with ethnic voters, especially the immigrants among them who made it to America the hard, legitimate way. The millions streaming illegally into the country are a far greater threat to their economic wellbeing than to well-off liberals who affect unconcern.

'I understand this country is built up of immigrants,' a woman at the Bronx rally from the Dominican Republic told the New York Times. 'But I came to this country in the right way. I didn't come in through the backyard, I came in through the front door.'

When it comes to Hispanics it's not even clear Biden can count on majority support any more. In 2020, exit polls suggested he had a strong 59 per cent to 38 per cent lead over Trump among Hispanics.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump watched him at a rally in the historical Democratic district of the South Bronx in New York City.

The Bronx, home to a large Latino community, is where Trump is seeking to gain more non-white votes.

The latest polls show Hispanic voters splitting even-steven, with younger members of the ethnic group more inclined to favour Trump. If this is how they vote on November 5, the outcome will be devastating for Biden, especially since there are a lot more Hispanic than black voters.

The rise in non-white support for Trump is already helping him in the seven swing states that will determine the election. The latest New York Times poll has Trump leading in six of them (Biden has the slimmest of leads in Wisconsin), in some by big margins.

In Nevada, for example, generally regarded as a Democratic state, he was 13 points ahead.

In the latest poll of polls he is comfortably ahead (almost five points) in Nevada, North Carolina, Georgia and Arizona  and within striking distance of victory in all the others.

Even in solidly Democratic New York State, which Biden walked with 61 per cent of the vote in 2020, the polls now give him just a nine-point lead.

I cannot believe New York will go Trump's way  Ronald Reagan was the last Republican to win it in 1984 when he was re-elected by a landslide  but it will be closer than last time. And the Democrats don't help themselves when the achingly woke Democratic governor of New York describes those who went to the Bronx rally as 'clowns'. Shades of Hillary Clinton's disastrous stigmatising of Trump supporters as 'a basket of deplorables'.

The Democrats best resemble a duck at the moment. Placid and confident above water, pedalling furiously beneath it. Leading Democrats think Biden should be dumped but only say so in private and they don't know how to get rid of him unless he obliges them by standing down voluntarily.

A few have raised their heads above the parapet (leading Democratic pollster Nate Silver said this week Biden should 'step aside') but not enough to create a big 'Dump Biden' movement.

The Spanish words 'Jose Biden No Bueno' translate to 'Joe Biden Not Good' in English.

A supporter at the rally wore a yarmulke customised with Tump's slogan 'Make America Great Again'.

But perhaps the date of the first Biden v Trump presidential debate is significant: June 27. There's never been such a debate this early in the election cycle. Neither man will even have been formally ordained as their party's official candidate by then. That happens at the conventions.

The Democratic convention is not until August 19-22 in Chicago. If Biden crashes and burns in the late June debate and the polls go from bad to worse, there would be time to press him to withdraw and turn Chicago into an old-fashioned brokered convention where the delegates would choose a new candidate.

It's a long shot but I wouldn't rule it out. The Biden campaign is getting shakier. His public performances grow ever more embarrassing. This week he referred to his vice president as 'the president' and predicted Africa's population would soon top 1 billion. It's already 1.5 billion. If this is emblematic of Biden's performance in the debate you can expect Trump to pounce and show no mercy.

A New York friend steeped in U.S. politics said to me yesterday that the election was between 'too crazy and too old'. It looks like we're stuck with 'too crazy' but 'too old' might not make it through the summer.
Denise and Ashley speak on the Mail's The Apple and The Tree podcast about their relationship

A mother has broken the parenting taboo by bravely admitting that she does have a favourite child.

Vogue Williams is speaking to parents and their adult children to discuss subjects theyve rarely, if ever, talked about in The Mail's new podcast, The Apple & The Tree.

These are deep, intimate, and revealing conversations that move through love, grief, shame, sexuality, religion, addiction, identity and so much more, recorded in guests own homes, with Vogue unpacking what's been shared at the end of each episode.

In the seventh episode, Vogue travels to Mitcham in south London to meet Ashley and his mother Denise.

Denise, 60, is well known in her community even through tough times in her life and when she struggled with her health. In her fifties, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a subsequent mastectomy, something Ashley said to this day he finds difficult to cope with.

Denise, from South London, admits that Ashley is her favourite child and her other children are aware of it

TV presenter Vogue Williams speaks to mothers and fathers and their adult children to discuss subjects theyve rarely, if ever, talked about in The Mail's new podcast, The Apple & The Tree

Denise is now eight years cancer free, fundraises to find a cure for the disease and says she got a tattoo that says 'survivor' across her chest.

Denise and Ashley's father also split up when he was very young and they speak about why he is considered her 'golden child', despite him being in his thirties, on the podcast.

Vogue said: 'I kinda love that you so openly choose a favourite child, I always say parents have a favourite child. Is Ashely your favourite?'

Denise then glanced over to her son and said: 'He is. If I ask Ashley to do something, out of all four of my kids, he's the first one to do it.

'Ashley is a comedian, he's always made me laugh, [even] if I'm unhappy or sick.'

Vogue then dug a little deeper and asked Denise how her other children may feel that she has a favourite.

'The girls are not too happy about it. My oldest doesn't really say anything. If I say "Oh Ashley, can you -" they'll say "Oh Ashley is your golden child, Ashley always does everything for you!"

Denise said she loves the relationship she has with her son because she feels like they are friends but she still holds an important rank because she is his mother.

Vogue then said that Denise's daughters needed to 'step up their game' to which Ashley then chimed in and replied: 'Yeah, exactly.'

'My brother used to be my favourite and now I'm the top dog,' the presenter added.

The pair also speak about how how Denise and Ashley's father split when he was really young

In the episode, the trio also discuss the absence of Ashley's father and how that led to him feeling unsafe and unsettled.

When Vogue asked him about whether he ever discussed these feeling with his mother, he said: 'I don't think I ever spoke to her about it until I got older, because it's not like I didn't feel safe at all because my older brother was at home.

'He did make me feel safe. But there was a point where he left home and then I became the 'man of the house'.

'I didn't let them know I ever felt unsafe because I wanted them to feel safe. It was only when the fear left that I said "You know I was scared?"

Listen to the our podcast The Apple & The Tree, hosted by Vogue Williams on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes released every Friday.
Russell from East Sussex appeared in Channel 4's The War On Motorists

A man who lives in 'pothole hell' has revealed that up to nine cars are forced to take refuge in his driveway every single day due to the incredibly uneven roads in East Sussex meaning motorists are unable to park.

The man, called Russell, appeared in Channel 4's new documentary The War On Motorists on Thursday.

Russell, has locally become known as a 'pothole superhero' as his house is a refuge for cars that have become victim to the dangerous craters.

In the show, he showed reporter and motoring journalist Ginny Buckley footage from his Ring Doorbell, which featured three cars queuing at once in his driveway.

'We've had a lot more than one at any one time. If there's just one out there, it's a good day.'

A man who lives in 'pothole hell' has revealed that up to nine cars are forced to take refuge in his driveway every single day due to the incredibly uneven roads in East Sussex

Russell (pictured showing off the pothole) has locally become known as a 'pothole superhero' as his house is a refuge for cars that have become victim to the dangerous craters

As he reviewed the footage he added: 'There's three cars on our driveway! These are coming in at one, two o'clock in the morning.'

The weary pothole expert revealed one of the worst pits in the area, which was so deep that the water inside almost reached his elbow when measured with his arm.

One pothole had a jagged edge around it, with Russel explaining this was a 'repair' the council had made.

However, this made things even worse - as Russel claimed scarcely any cars could escape it without a flat tyre.

'And this is a repair! Every repair just falls apart. It's ridiculous.'

Local councils received more than a million pothole reports last year with 56million spent on repairs, an Freedom of Information request of 206 councils revealed in the programme.

A third of those that responded said they only fix potholes when they reach a specific depth.

East Sussex County Council said: 'To deal with a growing number of potholes over the 2023 winter period, we employed nearly three times the usual number of crews to carry out repairs.

Ring doorbell footage shows up to nine cars a day park in his drive

Cars queue up to park at Russell's house

'To repair every pothole would cost about four times our current spend and place an even greater burden on council taxpayers.

'Whilst our aim is to get it right first time, there are a number of factors that can lead to a pothole repair failing but only a small percentage of potholes have to be re-repaired.

'We have invested an additional 15.7 million this year to help improve the condition of East Sussex roads.'

The FOI data also revealed that 80 per cent of pothole compensation claims were rejected by the councils that responded.

In the 12 months up to March this year, the RAC attended 27,000 pothole incidents on Britain's roads - a 9 per cent increase on last year.

The breakdown service company, which has over 13 million members in the UK, has calculated that drivers of a typical family car can expect to have to pay up to 460 if their car needs to go to a garage after hitting a pothole.

The 'fixed' potholes' are full of debris and often given motorists flat tyres

Rod Dennis, Senior Policy Officer at RAC told Dispatches: 'In some cases, councils are very upfront.

'In other places, there's zero information from councils as to what is a pothole.

'It seems crazy that depending on where you live, you might have one council treating you one way, if you were to hit a pothole, and another council treating you completely differently.'

While the government has pledged 8.3billion from abandoned HS2 budget towards tackling potholes, recent analysis by an economic consultancy suggested potholes are costing the economy in England 14.4billion pounds a year.

Rod Dennis, Senior Policy Officer at RAC, said the government's pledge doesn't go far enough: 'We don't feel the national government has got a proper grip on just how bad the situation on our roads really is.

'8.3 billion, while it sounds like a lot, is staggered over the course of a decade, and all that would be enough to do would be to resurface Essex's roads and leave the rest of the country's roads exactly as they are today.'

In response to the findings, the Department for Transport said: 'Our additional 8.3 billion is the biggest ever increase in funding for local highways maintenance  enough to resurface the equivalent of over 5,000 miles of roads across the country.

'Local authorities received the first 150m of this increase in October and will receive a further 150m this year.

'We're also requiring local councils to publish regular reports of which roads they are resurfacing with this extra money, so taxpayers can see how their money is being spent by their local council.'

The War on Britain's Motorists: Dispatches, Thursday 23 May 8pm, Channel 4
A mom-of-four has shared why she pulled her children out of school and ditched her 'soul-sucking' nine-to-five routine to adopt a nomadic lifestyle and move her family into an off-grid cabin.

Former teacher and single mom, Ashley, 32, has always had a deep love for 'Mother Earth'  finding herself longing to live at one with nature from a young age.

After divorcing her children's father and feeling stressed by daily life  including managing mortgage payments, chores, school activities and cooking up healthy meals  she realized she needed a change of pace.

Ashley decided to take the plunge and put her house on the market as she and her children Helen, 17, Olivia, 15, Adelaide, 14, and Arabella, 12, moved into a tent for the summer.

Soon after, they found the perfect piece of land to build a home in upstate rural New York  which Ashley considered her dream spot as it was often referred to the 'witches' lair.'

A mom-of-four has shared why she pulled her children out of school and ditched her 'soul-sucking' nine-to-five routine to adopt a nomadic lifestyle and move her family into a cabin

Former teacher and single mom, Ashley, 32, has always had a deep love for 'Mother Earth'  finding herself longing to live at one with nature from a young age (cabin shown)

Now, Ashley and her children are living very far from the norm - with the family even collecting water from a creek and using a composting toilet.

And, according to the mom, this is the ideal lifestyle for her.

She said: 'Since childhood, I have always wanted to live close to the land. I have a passion for living in a way that is sustainable, environmentally conscious and in alignment and balance with nature.

'I would like to live a life that does no harm to the earth and instead nurtures her back for the gifts she so freely gives us.'

Another reason the family decided to pack up and switch to an off-the grid life in 2022 is because of their food.

'With commercial food-growing practices so wildly out of balance with nature, destroying our soil health and ecosystems, and crops so heavily laden with toxins, I feel the only way to ensure my food is safe and being grown sustainably is to grow it myself,' she explained.

Before moving to a cabin, Ashley was working a corporate job and constantly felt exhausted by the time she got home.

She explained that she felt like she was always struggling to find joy in her life.

Now, Ashley and her children are living very far from the norm - with the family even carrying water from a creek and using a composting toilet

Another reason the family decided to pack up and switch to an off-the grid life in 2022 is because of their food

Before moving to a cabin, Ashley was working a corporate job and constantly felt exhausted by the time she got home

'Prior to my homesteading venture, I had the average life of rushed mornings doing chores, packing school lunches for my kids and rushing to work where I spent long hours in a square, sterile building before arriving back home tired.

'It was sucking my soul,' she added.

After finding the best piece of land, Ashley began building her cabin, which she branded their 'witches lair.'

She said: 'For the cabin, I bought the shell of an Amish-built shed and my children and I insulated and finished the inside.

'We did every drop of construction ourselves and salvaged a lot of materials. I hired an Amish friend to help me build the barn, using cedars from our land.'

The family is still working on putting the finishing touches on their home and adapting to their new lifestyle.

'It's still not quite finished, I have solar panels that I plan to install for a more permanent power source and to hopefully provide piped water  I don't have electricity or running water.

'I'm happy carrying water, but my children want it to come from the tap!

'I use a jackets battery that I charge up in my car when driving to power devices and run little lights at night when we choose,' she added.

So far Ashely has spent $25,390 on the cabin, which is still a work in progress.

The family is still working on putting the finishing touches on their home and adapting to their new lifestyle

So far Ashely has spent $25,390 on the cabin, which is still a work in progress

'We worked incredibly hard, and I could never have done it without their help,' she said referring to her children

She explained: 'We insulated the cabin with natural cellulose insulation, put pine board walls up, southern pine flooring down, lofts, counters, sink, stairs, an awesome twisty, stick railing and installed plumbing for the water we hope to have one day.

'We did it all. My girls were so amazing, they worked right by my side every day. They learned to use power tools, measure and problem solve.

'We worked incredibly hard, and I could never have done it without their help.'

Ashely now homeschools her children, as well as others as a way to pay for the home improvements, and she has her own business.

She said: 'Currently I make brooms, baskets and natural body-care products, which I sell locally.

'I started teaching at a homeschool co-op too.'

Ashely now homeschools her children, as well as others as a way to pay for the home improvements, and she has her own business

The family's homestead journey has been quite the adventure and is a lifestyle that requires a lot of physical work, the mom admitted

The family's homestead journey has been quite the adventure and is a lifestyle that requires a lot of physical work, the mom admitted.

She said: 'It pays off in boundless ways. I feel very grateful to be living this experience. Building my own home, and homesteading solo with my girls has taught me so much  most of all that I love this life and the peace and security it gives me.

'I carry my water from my creek in the winter months and pump it by hand from our well during the summer. I wash my clothes by hand in a nearby river or in a wash tub, traditional style.

'We use a wood stove for heat and hot water in the winter and a composting toilet. We usually spend our evenings by candlelight which is magical.'

'It's the life I've always wanted to live. After experiencing the peace and beauty of this life, I could never go back!'
Sarah Ferguson furiously silenced an audience at Cannes Film Festival as she thanked an artist for a portrait of the late Queen and lectured the crowd on the environment.

The Duchess of York, 64, lost her cool as the crowd continued to speak over her while she stood on stage at the 77th Cannes Film Festival gala auction last night and ordered them to be 'quiet' as she thanked Simon de Pury, who had auctioned off a portrait of the late monarch by Chris Levine for 475,000 in aid of charity.

The ex-wife of Prince Andrew, who donned a custom-made 13,202 Lilith Cocktail Dress, slammed the chatty audience for looking for 'the next party' rather than listening to her - before going on to apologise to young people about the state of the planet.

The clip, in which a frustrated Fergie orders the audience to 'stop, stop, stop' was posted on Instagram by German-American model Heidi Klum, who attended the event in aid of amFAR, a non-profit which promotes AIDS treatment and HIV prevention around the world.

Sarah - mother to Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie - can be heard saying: 'Quiet! because the incredible person Simon de Pury has done an amazing job tonight, this is exceptional, and all I want to say to everyone in this room is stop, stop, stop.

Sarah Ferguson silenced the audience as she thanked Simon de Pury for 'exceptional' auctioned piece of late Queen at amFAR gala in Cannes on Thursday night

She continued: 'Did you see I removed the microphone, because all of you are saying "I want to go, because where is the next party? What are we meant to be doing next?"

'But what I want to say is why are we here? What is the future and why are we not making our planet better for the youth of tomorrow?

She added: 'I am so sorry that we have completely destroyed your planet, but thanks to amFAR and these people with scientific brilliance...' before the clip ended.

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is a non-profit which works to improve treatment of AIDS and HIV prevention around the world.

Elsewhere in the evening, she revealed she has 'put cancer in a corner' as she continues to recover after her diagnosis earlier this year.

Fergie, who is now 'all-clear' from the illness, according to her daughter Beatrice, told People magazine: 'This evening I am doing very well. I think that we've managed to get cancer in the right place rather than cancer ruling me.'

She continued: 'I think you always have to be aware. I think it's great to get checked for breast cancer [and] melanoma. I think you just have to be very candid about it. I think a lot of people get very frightened to talk about these things. I'm very happy with my mastectomy and my breasts and just to talk about it.'

Sarah joined the likes of Bella Thorne and Kelly Rowland, Heidi Klum and her daughter Leni at the star-studded gathering.

And she seemingly wasn't the only star to tell the audience off; Demi Moore scolded spectators while introducing Cher during the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS gala.

Earlier this week, the 64-year-old said she is now an 'ambassador' for Generation Z, a term generally referring to those aged 13 to 26, as she attended the Knights Of Charity gala dinner in Cannes.

'I am the generational bridge between Gen Z and the outside world,' she declared. 'I'm saying, "No, Gen Z, I'm very sorry for hurting your planet and I'm listening".'

Explaining why she is taking up the cause of those less than half her age, she told The Daily Mail's Richard Eden: 'I can relate to the pressure they face because Fergie's always been judged.'

'Gen Z are very strong people,' she said. 'No one should be judged on anything, not race, creed, colour, or any other denomination  and I'm a great supporter of LGBTQ. Everybody just needs to be themselves  why is that not good enough?'

The Duchess of York , 64, appeared frustrated as the crowd chatted over her passionate speech at the 77th Cannes Film Festival gala auction

The royal, who donned a custom-made 13,202 Lilith Cocktail Dress, also apologised to the 'youth of tomorrow' for not 'making the planet better'

Simon de Pury and Sarah spoke on stage during the amfAR Cannes Gala 30th edition presented by Chopard And Red Sea International Film

The mother-of-two looked incredible in a Cocktail Dress embellished with striking wispy sleeves and jewels made to look like raindrops

The Duchess couldn't keep still for a moment as the cameras clicked on the red carpet

The Duchess of York, 64, pulled a series of very animated poses for her big night out

Sarah appeared in great spirits on the red carpet as she attended the amFAR gala at the 77th Cannes Film Festival

Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, poses during a photocall for guest arrivals at the amfAR Gala Cannes 2024

Fergie laughed and joked with the cameramen as she attended the star-studded gala

The intricate floral design made for an elegant look, as she matched her pearl earrings to the stunning fabric

Last night, Sarah looked incredible in a cocktail dress embellished with striking wispy sleeves and jewels made to look like raindrops.

The intricate floral design made for an elegant look, as she matched her pearl earrings to the stunning fabric.

She swept her signature red hair back from her face, and sported a gold bracelet emblazoned with the names of her daughter, Beatrice and Eugenie.

Wearing jewellery engraved with children's names is a favourite look of Meghan Markle, while Kate Middleton has also worn jewellery with her children's initials.

The Duchess completed her look with a white clutch bag and sparkling silver heels, adding to the radiant effect of the outfit.

The appearance comes just a day after Princess Beatrice gushed about her 'incredible' mother as she visited school children in south London.

The royal, 35, read to children in Reception and Year One during a surprise trip to West Thornton Primary School in Croydon, where she praised the Duchess of York and spoke about her extensive collection of children's' books.

'I grew up with an incredible mum as a children's author, so stories really created that sense of imagination,' the mother-of-one said.

Sarah was enjoying visiting the South of France after being diagnosed with two types of cancer in the span of eight months.

Fergie looked dazzling in a white pearl dress embellished with jewels and striking wispy sleeves

She posed for snaps for Giorgio Veroni - an events manager married to Tamara Beckwith

Friendly Fergie even shook hands with the photographers, standing out from the crowd

The Duchess Of York beamed as she arrived for the evening in a pretty pale pink beaded gown with matching caped detailing

The intricate floral design made for an elegant look, as she matched her pearl earrings to the stunning fabric

Elsewhere at the event, the Duchess of York met with Tiziana Rocca (left) and Jumana Al-Rashed (right)

Fergie donned a custom made dress costing more than 13,000 and embellished with sequins and beads to attend the event

The star-studded event was full of celebrity attendees - but the mother-of-two was less than impressed with her audience

The Duchess revealed that she was diagnosed with skin cancer in January, just months after having a mastectomy for breast cancer.

The mother-of-two had a number of moles removed while undergoing breast reconstruction surgery last year, one of which was found to be malignant.

The Duchess was described as being in 'good spirits' after the 'distressing' news, which was broken to her just days after Christmas.

A melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body, mainly caused by exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or sunbeds.

People with paler skin, a large number of moles and family history of skin cancer tend to be more at risk of developing this.

Friends at the time said Fergie is the 'most resilient' person they know and was already planning to pick up her television career again soon to encourage others to get themselves checked out.

One friend told the Mail that the duchess had been informed she would need 'further investigations' to make sure it has been caught at the early stages.

'Everyone is hoping this is the case and the doctors are hopeful they have got it early, but melanoma is aggressive and they need to double check everything,' they said.

Heidi Klum put on an extravagant display in a dusky pink tulle gown as she posed for snaps with her daughter Leni, 18, before planting a sweet kiss on her cheek

Showing off her incredible figure, Heidi posed up a storm in a beautiful pink gown which boasted a voluminous tulle skirt and a matching train

As she arrived at the event, Demi Moore was joined by Cher and the singer's partner Alexander Edwards

Demi showed off her ageless physique as she arrived on the red carpet in a Grecian-inspired white thigh-split gown

Football star Alex Scott (left), and her girlfriend, singer Jess Glynne finally made their first red carpet appearance at the gala after posing separately at events for months

Kelly Rowland brushed off her recent red carpet drama as she attended the glitzy gala, showing off her impressive abs in a sparkly green bralette and a matching skirt

The former America's Next Top Model star Winnie Harlow was joined by her boyfriend Kyle Kuzma

Robin Thicke and April Love Geary were every inch the picture-perfect duo as they attended the launch together

Diane Kruger bought an edgy twist to the red carpet in the form of her bright green illusion gown with a flowing train, while her brunette tresses were styled into a funky curled look

The legendary model showed off her incredible figure in the glamorous ensemble, which she teamed with white pointed-toe stiletto heels

Michelle Yeoh cut a glamorous figure in a vamped-up black long-sleeved gown with metallic silver heels

Toni Garrn flaunted her famous model figure in a sparkly midnight blue dress adorned with sequins, with the look boasting a strapless top and a sheer skirt

Lady Victoria Hervey amped up the glamour in a revealing black velvet gown, with a matching fishtail skirt and train

Emma Weymouth, Marchioness of Bath, slipped into a plunging silver sequinned gown as she dazzled on the red carpet for Cannes' annual amfAR gala

They added of Sarah: 'She's very resilient and she does bounce back from things quite quickly but two diagnoses of cancer in six months, particularly when she thought she had just got over the breast cancer, is a lot for anyone to deal with and process.

'You hope you've beaten it and then get something like this.

'That's why she wanted to take herself off to Austria for a couple of weeks, to get her head around everything. She's back home now and the family have been very supportive.'

They also praised 'her girls' - Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie - who they said have been 'fantastic over the last six months'.

'They really have been brilliant over her breast cancer diagnosis. And they are already rallying around her,' they said.

But in recent weeks, she's been increasing her public appearances, even travelling as far as Samoa to visit women's leadership groups last month.

Each year, the gala held in Cannes brings a slew of A-listers to the south of France in order to bring awareness and raise funds for the nonprofit.

Cannes is the world's biggest film festival, first conceived in 1939 as an alternative to the then-fascist-influenced Venice Film Festival.

It has been held annually since 1946 except in 1948 and 1950, when it was cancelled due to lack of funds.

The festival is known for its carefully selected programme of films that have gone on to Oscar glory or launched the careers of directors like Quentin Tarantino.

The Cannes Film Festival officially kicked off on Tuesday night as celebrities walked the red carpet into the plush Grand Theatre Lumiere to honour Hollywood actor Meryl Streep before settling in to watch this year's opening film, The Second Act.

'Are you an Emmy winner? I f*****g don't think so': Demi Moore scolds audience as she introduces Cher at star-studded amfAR Gala

Demi Moore scolded the audience while introducing Cher during the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS Gala, in Cap d'Antibes, France, on Thursday.

The Ghost star, 61, was on stage giving the entertainment icon, 78, a glowing tribute, when an audience member in the back seemed to spark her ire.

The video, posted by Ramin Setoodeh on Twitter, starts out with Demi saying, 'I'm going to see if this is the moment we've all been waiting for.'

The actress went on, 'I'm just making sure that you're really, really with me. Because this incredible woman that I'm about to introduce - she's a Grammy winner, an Oscar winner, an Emmy winner.'

At this point Demi paused, seemingly agitated by someone in the audience, before saying, 'Are you an Emmy winner over there in the back of the room? I f*****g don't think so.'

Demi Moore scolded the audience while introducing Cher during the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS Gala, in Cap d'Antibes, France, on Thursday

The Ghost star, 61, was on stage giving Cher, 78, a glowing tribute, when an audience member in the back seemed to spark her ire; The duo seen on the red carpet at the event

The audience erupted in a mix of surprised reactions, with some cheers, before Demi resumed.

'She's a style icon and my personal hair inspiration. And she was was honoured by amfAR for their award of inspiration in 2015.

'The bottom line is she is just one of the most talented, successful, and best-loved performers of all time,' Demi went on.

'So please,' she said, before taking another notably long pause, as she stared out over the crowd, before continuing, 'please give a warm welcome to the incredible, one and only, Cher.'

It's unclear if someone in the audience had said something, or if she was reacting to the noise coming from the crowd during her introduction, or simply being playful.

Earlier on the red carpet Demi and Cher posed together, as they enjoyed a reunion nearly 30 years after starring in the 1996 HBO series 'If These Walls Could Talk.'

Demi, Cher, and her younger boyfriend Alexander 'AE' Edwards, 38, joined other stars during the evening to help raise funds for HIV/AIDS research at the annual gala, which was first instituted in 1993 by Elizabeth Taylor.

Cher was also pictured performing during the evening in a clip posted by model Heidi Klum to her Instagram. She sizzled up a storm in a black sparkling bodysuit and black leather jacket.

While inside the event the Indecent Proposal star looked simply stunning in a plunging sparkling silver gown that clung to her enviable figure.

The video, posted by Ramin Setoodeh on Twitter, starts out with Demi saying, 'I'm going to see if this is the moment we've all been waiting for'

She went on, 'I'm just making sure that you're really, really with me. Because this incredible woman that I'm about to introduce - she's a Grammy winner, an Oscar winner, an Emmy winner'

At this point Demi paused, seemingly agitated by someone in the audience, before saying, 'Are you an Emmy winner over there in the back of the room? I f*****g don't think so'

The audience erupted in a mix of surprised reactions, with some cheers, before Demi resumed

It's unclear if someone in the audience had said something, or if she was reacting to the noise coming from the crowd during her introduction, or simply being playful

The Indecent Proposal star looked simply stunning in a plunging sparkling silver gown that clung to her enviable figure

Cher was also pictured performing during the evening in a clip posted by model Heidi Klum to her Instagram

She sizzled up a storm in a black sparkling bodysuit and black leather jacket

The sensational outfit featuring nude panels running along the front and highlighted her ample cleavage.

She accessorised the gown with a large statement diamond necklace. Her long raven tresses cascaded down in a sleek style, reminiscent of Cher's hair in the 70's.

Earlier on the red carpet she had donned a cowl-neck white dress with a high side split and a long train.

The dress featured a silver rope-like border and she matched the dress with beautiful silver jewellery.

Demi wore her hair pinned up and finished her look with a pair of plain silver heeled sandals.

Earlier on the red carpet Demi and Cher posed together in contrasting gowns, with Demi wearing white and Cher opting for a black outfit

Demi, Cher, and her younger boyfriend Alexander 'AE' Edwards, 38, joined other stars during the evening to help raise funds for HIV/AIDS research at the annual gala

Demi and Cher enjoyed a reunion nearly 30 years after starring in the 1996 HBO series, If These Walls Could Talk; the duo seen in a still

Demi and Cher showed off their long-time friendship with sweet snaps on the red carpet, as they wrapped their arms around each other, with Demi leaning in for a kiss and Cher leaning in to meet her.

Cher's Def Jam music executive boyfriend Alexander, who shares a child with American model Amber Rose, joined at the end.

Ready to move to the next photo-taking spot, Demi's train was held by a man dressed in a snazzy silver suit so she could move quickly.

Outside, Demi bumped into Michael Jackson's eldest daughter Paris who wore all-black and accessorised with leafy jewellery.

Demi shares daughters Rumer, 35, Scout, 32, and Tallulah, 30, with ex-husband Bruce Willis, 69, who is battling frontotemporal dementia. Demi and Bruce married in 1987 and split in 2000.
Lady Elizabeth Longman, who wore the dress, was a lifelong friend of the Queen

One of the dresses worn the Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip's bridesmaids is set to go up for auction.

Lady Elizabeth Longman, who died in 2016 aged 92, was one of the royal couple's eight bridesmaids and a lifelong friend of the late Queen, wore the white, tulle dress at their Westminster Abbey wedding ceremony on 20 November 1947 which is now being put on sale by Christie's.

The dress, which is expected to reach between 30,000 and 50,000 was later wore by kate moss when the supermodel was doing a photo shoot at a stately home where Lady Elizabeth was staying.

With a Bardot neckline, a ruched, silk bodice and a flowing tulle skirt embellished with flowers, the elegant dress remains in near-perfect condition despite the passage of time.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Benedict Winter of Christie's described the 76-year-old gown as being in 'incredibly good condition'.

Lady Elizabeth Longman, nee Lambart, (back row, second from right) was one of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's eight bridesmaids when they married in 1947. The white, tulle bridesmaid's dresses had a Bardot neckline, a ruched, silk bodice and a flowing tulle skirt embellished with flowers

Winter, who looks after the auction house's private collections, added: 'The dress has been much-loved and the family feel it is time to give it to a wider audience.'

Lady Elizabeth was staying at Houghton Hall in 2012 at the same time that Kate was there for a photoshoot for British style magazine Love.

Although several pictures from the shoot were published in an issue of Love - including one of the then 87-year-old Lady Elizabeth in all her finery - the image of a beaming Kate wearing the bridesmaid's dress was held back.

The previously unseen image of Kate and Lady Elizabeth has been released to support the sale of the dress, which will be auctioned on July 2 in The Exceptional Sale at Christie's.

Reflecting on the experience, Kate said: 'Meeting Lady Elizabeth and wearing her dress, that had such a wonderful heritage, was a magical moment for me. I felt like I was wearing a piece of history'.

Prior to the sale, it will be on public display at the auction house's London site.

Expected to fetch between 30,000 and 50,000, the dress is likely to attract a huge amount of interest from both UK and international bidders. Those those wanting to wear it will need supermodel proportions, with the waist measurement just 24 inches.

Winter added: 'Christies is privileged to be offering this evocative and rare example of royal fashion history.'

Supermodel Kate Moss (pictured in May 2024) had the chance to try on Lady Elizabeth's bridesmaid's dress in 2012 when she was doing a photo shoot at Houghton Hall for Love magazine

He added: 'I love the photograph because it is the old world meeting the new world  Kate is wearing a remarkable piece of history.'

It comes as a number of the late Princes Diana's looks, including a Catherine Walker skirt suit and a hat designed by Philip Somerville, will also go up for auction.

Los Angeles-based Julien's Auctions will first tour the garments in an exhibition, before selling them off at The Museum of Style Icons in Ireland.

Some of Diana's most famous and striking ensembles - for example, a Murray Arbeid gown worn twice in 1986, first at the Phantom of the Opera premiere and then to a dinner at Claridge's for King Constantine of Greece - will be on sale.

Diana also wore the dress when she was photographed by Lord Snowdon in 1997 ahead of a Christie's charity auction. It has an estimate of $200,000 - $400,000.

Also on offer is a pair of bright green satin evening pumps by Kurt Geiger, which the royal wore to a state banquet at the Dorchester Hotel in 1993 - and could bring in $2,000 - $4,000.

Equally, there is an estimate of $200,000 - $400,000 for a Victor Edelstein lace evening dress worn by the princess in Germany, in 1987.

The late Princess Diana's Murray Arbeid gown, which she wore twice in 1986, will be auctioned on June 27

A multi-coloured wide-brim hat sported by Diana during her 1985 Australian Royal Tour is expected to attract offers between $10,000 and $20,000.

A portion of the auction proceeds will go to Muscular Dystrophy UK, the leading charity for those living with one of more than 60 muscle-wasting and weakening conditions.

Julien's Auctions said: 'Diana may have been a princess, but her allure rivaled that of a Hollywood starlet.

'Though she left no films behind, her legacy lives on through the exquisite gowns and accessories that continue to captivate audiences, inviting them to delve deeper into her enigmatic persona.'
Commentary: Increased in-person interaction vital for better China-U.S. ties

10:00, May 24, 2024 By Wang Jialin ( Xinhua

XI'AN, China, May 23 (Xinhua) -- For decades, travel has acted as an essential link between China and the United States, fostering mutual understanding between their people.

As officials and travel industry leaders from both countries gathered in the hometown of the world-renowned Terra Cotta Warriors for the 14th China-U.S. Tourism Leadership Summit, a clear message was conveyed: China prioritizes people-to-people exchanges with the United States and enthusiastically invites Americans to visit and discover China.

To implement the consensus reached at the San Francisco summit between the two heads of state, the event is anticipated to set the stage for future bilateral cooperation in the travel industry, aligning with the shared aspirations of both peoples for more opportunities to engage in person.

For China-U.S. relations, the hope lies in the people and the foundation rests with the people. China has been upholding this belief and endeavoring to strengthen the link for more exchanges with the United States.

Since last year, China has continuously introduced convenience measures to encourage increased interaction between the two peoples, including visa-free appointments, significant improvements in visa policies on travel to China, and expanded payment options.

During the high-level dialogue, both countries held signing ceremonies, designating Xi'an and Los Angeles, Shanghai and New York, and Shenzhen and San Francisco as tourism city partners.

However, efforts to promote people-to-people exchanges and improve bilateral ties must come from both sides, and the United States should also take positive steps.

U.S. travel advisories, which warn Americans about reconsidering their travel to China, are deterring intended American tourists from visiting China, and the unwarranted harassment and deportation of Chinese students have caused widespread anxiety.

Meanwhile, some U.S. politicians recklessly provoke hostile attitudes toward China while raking in political interests for their own.

Faced with a barrage of negative portrayals of China in their own country, an increasing number of Americans hold unfavorable views toward China even without having personal interactions with the Chinese people.

If history is any guide, only by witnessing firsthand can people dismantle ideological barriers. People-to-people ties between China and the United States should not be held hostage by Washington's grand strategy of maintaining its hegemony, nor should cultural exchanges be tainted by the "tough on China" rhetoric.

Numerous cases have proven that once people from both countries engage in direct encounters, they will realize that their similarities far outweigh the differences.

Personal interactions foster understanding and empathy, transcending political rhetoric and fostering genuine connections. As people from both countries participate in meaningful conversations and shared experiences, they will become ambassadors of goodwill, strengthening the fabric of bilateral relations.

Despite tensions and divergent policy positions, grassroots interactions between China and the United States can be a powerful force for reconciliation and mutual appreciation. By fostering friendship between their people, both countries can work better toward a bright future.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Experts say Seoul needs to take 'step-by-step' approach for self defense

By Kwak Yeon-soo

The debate over South Korea's nuclear option is resurfacing in the face of North Korea advancing its nuclear and missile programs. Some politicians and academics are becoming more vocal about their belief that South Korea should possess nuclear weapons for self-defense.

Those who support Seoul's nuclear option say the United States' extended deterrence may weaken as Pyongyang's nuclear and missile capabilities become more sophisticated.

In April last year, South Korea and the U.S. signed the Washington Declaration, which highlights Washington's enhanced commitment to its extended deterrence offered to Seoul against Pyongyang's evolving nuclear threats. Both agreed to form a Nuclear Consultative Group, through which the two sides will discuss nuclear and strategic planning in response to North Korea's possible attack.

However, South Korea cannot rely on security promises from the U.S. in perpetuity because the Washington Declaration is a mere agreement between President Yoon and President Biden, Cheong Seong-chang, director of the Center for Korean Peninsula Strategy at the Sejong Institute, noted.

"It may no longer be effective if the U.S. president changes. Also, a declaration doesn't have a legally binding effect," Cheong said.

He added that the U.S. is more concerned about restraining China than North Korea, and thus, South Korea should not depend entirely on the U.S. extended deterrence.

"Relying on the goodwill of the U.S. president in the face of North Korea's blatant nuclear threats is dangerous," he said.

According to Cheong, U.S. public opinion has steadily turned against defending South Korea. According to a poll conducted by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs in September 2023, only 50 percent of respondents favored using U.S. troops to defend South Korea in the event of an invasion, down from 63 percent in 2021 and 55 percent last year.

Kwak Gil-sup, the president of One Korea Center and adjunct professor at Kookmin University's Unification and Convergence Program, said South Korea should seriously consider building its own nuclear weapons in time as the North's threats of using tactical nuclear weapons are becoming increasingly explicit.

"We should prepare for the post-Biden era. It's too late to start discussing South Korea's nuclear option if Trump is re-elected," Kwak said.

He noted that Yoon has made considerable progress in seeking extended deterrence against North Korea, but South Korea needs to gain further nuclear assurances from the U.S. or otherwise consider its own nuclear option.

"The U.S. has opposed the idea of South Korea acquiring nuclear weapons because of its commitment (to the Non-Proliferation Treaty) and the ultimate goal of a world without nuclear weapons," Kwak said.

"However, situations change. North Korea has put us in a more dangerous place since last year when the Camp David summit took place and missile capabilities became more advanced. So we should not settle for the way things are right now, but seek further nuclear assurances from allies and acquire nuclear weapons."

Earlier this month, Rep. Yoon Sang-hyun of the ruling People Power Party joined the discussion, saying that South Korea should independently seek nuclear armament in the possibility of Donald Trump winning another term.

"If Trump is re-elected, the U.S. policy on North Korea might change from eliminating the North's nuclear weapons to managing them by preventing nuclear proliferation," he wrote on Facebook, May 2. "In the sake of right to minimum self-defense, it's time for us to consider possessing nuclear weapons in dealing with North Korea's nuclear capability."

South Korea's public sentiment in several opinion polls has been leaning toward the country possessing its own weapons program.

According to a poll conducted from Dec. 15 to Jan. 10 by Gallup Korea and commissioned by the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies, about 73 percent of respondents said South Korea should develop its own nuclear weapons. Nine out of 10 respondents thought it would be impossible to denuclearize North Korea.

Some observers outside the country have also made comments suggesting that Seoul should consider developing its own nuclear arsenal in response to Pyongyang's nuclear weapons.

Elbridge Colby, former deputy assistant secretary of defense for strategy and force development, said in a recent interview with Yonhap News Agency that he wouldn't rule out South Korea's nuclear armament, noting that the U.S. wouldn't protect South Korea from a North Korean nuclear attack if that meant "losing multiple American cities."

Adrian Lewis, a professor of military history at the University of Kansas, told the Chosun Ilbo that South Korea should consider developing its own nuclear weapons program as it is important for maintaining security on the Korean Peninsula.

The experts said South Korea needs to take a "step-by-step" approach to pursue nuclear weapons for self-defense.

"The U.S. would strongly oppose nuclear-armed South Korea because it sends a very bad message to neighboring countries. It might prompt Japan and Taiwan to join the nuclear arms race in the Asia-Pacific region," Kwak said. "However, South Korea should take a stepwise approach, from revisiting issues like uranium enrichment and repossessing and revising the Korea-U.S. Nuclear Energy Agreement to possessing nuclear weapons."
He's known for wearing 'ankle-grazers' and skin-tight shirts - but it appears Rishi Sunak has adopted a less 'trendy' style as he kicks off his general election campaign.

The Prime Minister, 44, has been spotted sporting full-length trousers while embarking on a blitz of campaigning after stunning Westminster with the announcement he is sending the country to the polls on 4 July.

Instead of his navy suit trousers that finish well above the ankle, the Tory leader has updated his wardrobe to include stylish full-length garments, despite admitting last month he doesn't like 'lots of baggy stuff' at the bottom of his leg.

Mr Sunak's love of suits that are too short has often been mocked - with a leading men's fashion guru previously claiming the Prime Minister's preference was because he is hostage to Noughties trends.

On his first full day since confirming the earlier-than-expected election date, the PM yesterday showcased his full-length trousers during a morning visit to Ilkeston.

He's known for wearing 'ankle-grazers' and skin-tight shirts - but it appears Rishi Sunak (pictured in March 2021, wearing his 'ankle-grazers') has adopted a less 'trendy' style as he kicks off his general election campaign

He then made a 170-mile trip to Barry, South Wales, before travelling a further 550 miles to Inverness in Scotland.

The PM has a trip to Northern Ireland scheduled for today as he visits all four nations of the UK to deliver his election message.

Mr Sunak also showcased his longer trousers during his rain-sodden address in Downing Street on Wednesday.

In April, Mr Sunak defended his fondness for short trousers after being quizzed over what have been dubbed the PM's 'ankle-grazers'.

The Tory leader insisted he was not chasing style or attempting to stay on-trend, but merely explained he doesn't like 'lots of baggy stuff' at the bottom of his leg.

His answer came during a grilling by The Sun newspaper and in a more light-hearted part of the interview, Mr Sunak was asked why he wears his trousers so short.

A laughing PM replied: 'I mean, I don't think they are that short!'

When it was put to him that there was a 'good two inches' between the top of his shoes and the bottom of his trouser leg, Mr Sunak added: 'No there definitely isn't!

The Prime Minister (pictured in Barry yesterday), 44, has been spotted sporting full-length trousers while embarking on a blitz of campaigning after stunning Westminster with the announcement he is sending the country to the polls on 4 July

Instead of his navy suit trousers that finish well above the ankle, the Tory leader (pictured this week) has updated his wardrobe to include stylish full-length garments, despite admitting last month he doesn't like 'lots of baggy stuff' at the bottom of his leg

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak arrives at Inverness Airport, Scotland, while on the general election campaign trail on Thursday

'I tend not to like lots of baggy kind of stuff at the bottom of my ankle. I don't think they are that short.'

A leading men's fashion guru has previously claimed Mr Sunak wears suits that are too short because he is hostage to Noughties trends.

Derek Guy - who is based in California and writes the Die, Workwear! fashion blog - said the PM was 'trend aware' but 'just a little behind the times'.

However, he scotched theories that the 5ft-6in politician opts for short trousers to make himself look taller, saying it was purely a matter of 'fashion'.

In a forensic analysis of Mr Sunak's fashion choices for his X followers, Mr Guy said: 'Baffling to me how the wealthiest UK prime minister in history could live just steps away from Savile Row, the single greatest concentration of skilled bespoke tailors, and end up paying $2k for a MTM suit with sleeves and trousers 2-4' too short.'

The fashion expert, who has written for Esquire and the Financial Times, dismissed claims from his followers that Mr Sunak was trying to mask his short stature.

He continued: 'Lots of conspiracy theories on why Sunak wears such short trousers and sleeves, but my theory is simple...

'Sunak is a vaguely trend-aware guy, but just a little behind the times. He wears Palm Angels slides, Common Projects sneakers, slim-fit chinos, etc.

Mr Sunak (pictured in March 2024) previously defended his fondness for short trousers after being quizzed over what have been dubbed the PM's 'ankle-grazers'

Mr Sunak reveals his short trousers while speaking on Zoom to Gordon Ramsay during the pandemic

'I don't think he has a grand theory for how short sleeves and pants make him look taller. He's simply accustomed to wearing trendy things and so, he wears early 2000s menswear trends.

'It is not unusual to see wealthy guys wear such shrunken suits. In fact, this is the dominant silhouette if you visit the downtown district of any major city.

'Lots of guys wearing tight, cropped pants, short jackets, bad sleeves . . . men of all sorts of builds. It's the fashion.'

However, other experts would disagree with Mr Guy's assessment of Mr Sunak's fashion sense - not least in contrast to his notoriously scruffy predecessor, Boris Johnson.

Despite his love of a sharp suit, the PM is regularly seen in more casual attire including hoodies, cardigans and - in one case while he was writing the 2021 Budget - a 95 pair of plastic sliders.

Celebrity stylist Lucas Armitage previously told FEMAIL: 'Politicians are not known for possessing the greatest wardrobes, yes Boris I'm looking at you, yet Rishi is always extremely well presented.'

Mr Armitage said the Prime Minster's wife Akshata Murthy, daughter of one of India's richest men, could be behind his stylish looks.

Ms Murthy runs a fashion label and can no doubt offer advice to the MP about his sense of style and tailoring.

Rishi Sunak has become known for his ankle-skimming trousers and jackets with sleeves that appear too short

The Tory leader insisted he was not chasing style or attempting to stay on-trend, but merely explained he doesn't like 'lots of baggy stuff' at the bottom of his leg

Mr Armitage said the key to Mr Sunak's look appears to be 'clever tricks' employed by expensive tailors.

The PM regularly wears a dark navy suit, which comes from upmarket tailor Henry Herbert, whose services start at a whopping 1,295.

The pieces, which are described online as 'true to the highest standards of traditional Savile Row tailoring', are crafted using fabrics sourced from mills in England and Scotland.

Celebrity stylist Rochelle White agreed, revealing: 'I feel that Rishi's style for short trousers is a mix of comfort and style.

'I think he is very aware of his body and what works well for him and builds that into his look.

'The short trousers are practical for everyday wear and more comfortable. They help to elongate his legs and body.'
A man born into a strict Church 'cult', where he was banned from listening to music or having friends, says he attempted suicide three times following years of sexual abuse.

John 'Gilli' Gilliland, 35, has claimed a 'protected' member of Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC) sexually abused him between the ages of 14 and 20, a time he recalled as being so 'traumatic' he wanted to end his life.

The PBCC is commonly referred to as a 'cult' by ex-members - however the church strongly denies this label and instead calls itself a 'mainstream Christian church'.

John, a commercial director, who now lives in Northallerton in North Yorkshire, claimed the Church - a subset of the Christian evangelical movement - was so draconian its members glued book pages together if it went against their teachings.

He also claimed the PBCC's 'biblical teachings' were 'twisted to suit their own agenda' and recalled having to 'smash up' his mobile phone because owning one was against the rules.

John Gilli Gilliland, 35, has claimed a 'protected' member of Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC) sexually abused him between the ages of 14 and 20, a time he recalled as being so 'traumatic' he wanted to end his life (John pictured now, after leaving the Church)

John says the PBCC was so strict, he was banned from listening to music or having friends - and he attempted suicide three times (pictured as a member of the Church)

The father-of-three said he escaped after taking a job at a business owned by the PBCC, where he fell in love with a non-member. Today they are happily married.

He now goes by 'Gilli' instead of John, as he associates his birth name with his 'past life'.

Looking back he said: 'Its not something Im exactly proud of, but at the same time Im not ashamed to admit that Ive had three suicide attempts just because you hit rock bottom and [from] the trauma.

'A lot of that is related to thinking youre not good enough because youre going against the [Churchs] rules and the impact of losing everything youve ever known.

'Your life is so, so structured, and so strict, when you leave, and that structure just goes'.

From around the age of 14 to 20, John alleged he was sexually abused by a member of the PBCC, and that the abuser is protected by them  a claim the Church has denied.

John said he never called out the member or reported the abuse to the police as he felt 'guilty' and presumed the ordeal was his fault.

'Obviously, its a horrific thing to go through but I think the thing thats probably the hardest part is the fact that the abuser is still protected and still is protected and probably will be for the rest of our lives' said John.

The PBCC is commonly referred to as a 'cult' by ex-members  a label it staunchly denies - and instead refers to itself as a 'mainstream Christian Church' (John is pictured after leaving the PBCC)

'I didnt know what sexual abuse was for a long time, even after I left. I didnt want to let myself believe that I had been [abused] because of the stigma that was attached to it.

'There was some part of me that was guilty for having had it done to me my reason for not telling the police is that its not something that anybody else has ever witnessed apart from the abuser and myself'.

John attended a mainstream school up until year six where he said he was bullied by his peers for being a member of the Church. He recalled turning down invitations from friends to play after school because of his religion.

He was homeschooled in years eight and nine by an ex-teacher who was a Brethren member, and then attended a Brethren-specific school until he finished in year 12.

He said the institution was incredibly restrictive, with staff going as far as gluing together pages of books that they deemed inappropriate or that went against their teachings.

He was also forbidden from learning sex education in school, nor could he attend public places such as cinemas and restaurants. And when mobile phones were introduced, he suspected the PBCC 'monitored' all correspondence.

He also claimed the PBCC's 'biblical teachings' were 'twisted to suit their own agenda' and recalled having to 'smash up' his mobile phone because owning one was against the rules

At home, his upbringing was equally strict, and included a Church service every evening, as well as four on Sundays.

He explained: 'There isnt one area of your life where youre not given either some instruction or advice on what to do, from the time that youre told that you should wake up in the morning, how much of the Bible you should read in the day, what time you should be at work, what time you should be home from work.

'You have a church service every day in the evening Monday to Friday, as well as Saturday morning and four times on a Sundaythere was no freedom of choice'.

John claimed all pre-recorded music was banned in the PBCC, with people removing radios from their cars to avoid hearing it - which is something they have denied.

He added: 'Sometimes you might not even necessarily get discovered, it will just be that your conscience will break you and youll get rid of it (the CD) because you think youre not supposed to have it.

'I think maybe one or two other times I brought a mobile phone [when I was 20] and again, I wasnt supposed to have it and I was made to smash it up.

'Eventually they did start introducing mobiles, but it was all through the Churchs central business, youd pay extortionate rates, and everything was monitored'.

The father-of-three said he escaped after taking a job at a business owned by the PBCC, where he fell in love with a non-member. Today they are happily married (John pictured now)

On the topic of romance, John said he was taught that cohabiting and sex before marriage was sinful. Instead of dating he was made to meet people and instantly propose to them.

'So it was difficult to form relationships you cant exactly blame anyone for turning down your proposal,' said John.

'I was rejected by a couple of people but it wasnt rejection as the outside world knows it'.

While a member of the Church he claimed the 'most rebellious' thing he'd ever done was buy a copy of an Abba Gold CD. But that would soon change.

At the age of 24, and while working for a business owned by members of the Church, John began developing romantic feelings for a colleague and non-member.

The pair began dating in secret and after three months, he decided to leave the Church to be with his girlfriend.

'I basically had a choice to make  I could either end the relationship or I would have to leave and I chose to follow my heart,' he recalled.

'I wasnt going to end a relationship just because of rules and I wasnt going to be told I shouldnt fall in love'.

On the topic of romance, John said he was taught that cohabiting and sex before marriage was sinful. Instead of dating he was made to meet people and instantly propose to them (John pictured going for a bike ride and after leaving the PBCC)

He officially left the PBCC on December 27 2012. To begin with he was 'scared' he 'would be struck down' due to doing things that were prohibited by the Church.

Eventually he adjusted to the 'outside world' where he could watch television and attend concerts.

He vividly recalled going to his first 'big gig' to see Gary Barlow and being 'so confused' when watching programmes such as The Jeremy Kyle Show for the first time.

The father has since gone on to have three children, whom he has not 'pushed religion on', while the entire family identifies as having no faith. He has also lost contact with his family who are still members of the church.

He continued: 'Theyre always going to be your parents but genuinely, I would say I dont know my parents any more.

'I dont know what goes on in their daily lives or how they are in terms of their health.

'I guess theres an element of it where you have to compartmentalise that section of your life because if you didnt, youd just end up sitting in a corner rocking'.

John now helps host podcast, Get A Life, a series which unearths the experiences of other ex-members, which has simultaneously helped heal him from past trauma.

A spokesperson from the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church said the congregation 'fully respects' John's decision to leave and wished him 'happiness and contentment; for the future.

They added: 'However, his description of life as a member of our Church does not in any way reflect our beliefs, practices or the common experiences of our members.

'Our Church is driven by care and compassion. This is exemplified by the many thousands of independent members of our Church who are significant contributors to the local communities where they live, work and worship.'

The spokesperson continued: 'In line with our Christian beliefs, we treat the safety and wellbeing of our members with the utmost importance and have robust safeguarding policies and practices in place to keep our community safe.

'We see any form of abuse as utterly abhorrent and strongly encourage anyone, including Mr Gilliland, to report any criminal activity to the police.'

The spokesperson also pointed to initiatives it runs to combat the stigma around mental health issues.

They concluded: 'At the end of the day, our members are Christian and will seek to act with kindness and compassion. We wish Mr Gilliland well and our offer of care and support for Mr Gilliland remains enduring'.

For support visit: www.samaritans.org or call 111 123
The Tatler portrait of the Princess of Wales, which was slammed by royal fans for looking nothing like Kate, is 'best forgotten', a royal expert has said.

Royal commentator Michale Cole described the portrait as 'dreadful' and likened it to the famous painting The Scream, by Edvard Munch, on GBNews today.

Discussing the portrait of Kate, which appeared on the latest edition of Tatler, Mr Cole questioned why the magazine decided to put it on the front cover.

The quirky painting was inspired by the royal mother's first state banquet of the King's reign and created by British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor.

He said: 'It's dreadful, isn't it? It's as dreadful as Jonathan Yeo's red portrait of the Red King was brilliant and wonderful. It is really a daub, a most dreadful daub. But what Tatler's doing sticking it on the cover? I have no idea at all.

The Tatler portrait of the Princess of Wales , which was slammed by royal fans for looking nothing like Kate , is 'best forgotten', says royal expert Michale Cole on GBNews

'I think she's got the garter sash right. Everything else is wrong. Certainly the features, certainly the deportment: everything about it.

'I have no idea why on earth that would be put on the cover of such a long established, well, it's the Toff's bible, isn't it? Tatler.'

Kate - who has stepped back from public duties amid her cancer diagnosis - did not sit for the artwork. Instead, Uzor used different photographs to make the unique painting, declared 'a portrait of strength and dignity' by the magazine.

Mr Cole continued: 'I don't know what they'll think of it at all, and I don't think it's helpful either, because at this moment, as we know, Kate, The Princess of Wales, is undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancer.

'To have a picture of her, which might have been done by that man who did The Scream, [Edvard] Munch. Mr Munch might have done this if he'd thought of doing a portrait of the Princess of Wales.

'Now I think it's best forgotten. I think it's one of those magazines you just want to turn it over and see the advert on the back page.'

Mr Cole isn't the only one who has been left unimpressed with the portrait as people online also voiced their opinions on the artwork, with one individual writing on X, formerly Twitter: 'You cannot be serious. That looks nothing like her.'

Another person insisted: 'Looks like it was created by a child,' while a third added: 'She needs to make an appointment urgently with Specsavers because who in the Princess of Wales is that?'

The quirky painting was inspired by the mother-of-three's first state banquet of the King's reign and created by British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor

Kate - who has stepped back from public duties amid her cancer diagnosis - did not sit for the artwork. Instead, Uzor used different photographs to make the unique painting, declared 'a portrait of strength and dignity' by the magazine

Attending the first state banquet of King Charles's reign at Buckingham Palace in November 2022, the Princess, 42, stole the show in a gem embellished white dress from her favoured Jenny Packham as she entertained the president of South Africa

Attending the first state banquet of King Charles's reign at Buckingham Palace in November 2022, the Princess, 42, stole the show in a gem embellished white dress from her favoured Jenny Packham as she entertained the president of South Africa.

Featuring a statement cape, the dazzling gown was paired with Queen Mary's Lover's Knot Tiara and her late mother-in-law Princess Diana's diamond and pearl drop earrings, all of which are captured in detail in Uzor's painting.

But for some, the elegant outfit is the only part of the portrait they easily recognise. One person said on X: 'Doesnt look like Catherine at all. If she wasnt wearing that dress Id have no clue as to who its meant to be.'

Another individual wrote: 'Is this a joke? That is never the Princess, that is another woman in her dress. It also looks like she has much shorter hair. This cover photo should not be published like this. It is an insult to Princess Catherine!'

The painting has also been criticised by the managing director of a London gallery for 'falling short in fully encapsulating the strength suggested by its title'.

Grove Gallery's Alex Bury told MailOnline: 'Hannah Uzors new portrait of Kate , the Princess of Wales, graces the cover of Tatler Magazine, aiming to portray strength and dignity.

'However, this depiction falls somewhat short of fully capturing these qualities. While the title suggests a portrait of strength, the artwork itself leans more towards a sense of calm and dignity.

'The light and dark blue background provides a soothing, tranquil atmosphere, a stark contrast to Jonathan Yeos recent portrait of King Charles III, dominated by chaotic red hues.

People online were left less than impressed by the artwork, with one individual writing on X, formerly Twitter : 'You cannot be serious. That looks nothing like her.'

However, not everyone was disappointed with the painting. One person wrote on X: 'I like it, well done'

'This calmer backdrop suggests a different artistic direction, one that emphasises stability and serenity over overt strength.'

Alex added: 'The eyes in this portrait fail to capture the true beauty and engaging presence of the Princess of Wales.

'This misalignment between the serene, almost passive expression in the portrait and the vibrant personality seen in her public appearances detracts from the overall impact of the piece. It lacks the femininity of power and dignity that she naturally exudes.'

Uzor prepared the portrait by looking at pictures of Kate, explaining: 'When you cant meet the sitter in person, you have to look at everything you can find and piece together the subtle human moments revealed in different photographs: do they have a particular way of standing or holding their head or hands? Do they have a recurrent gesture?

'[Kate] has really risen up to her role  she was born for this. She carries herself with such dignity, elegance and grace,' said Uzor. I sense with her the joy of motherhood.'

In a clip shared on Tatler's Instagram page, Hannah explained the process behind the drawing and said looking at Kate's expression was 'really key' to the painting.

She said: 'It's really important to capture the soul of the person, so I spent a lot of time looking [at Kate], looking at her pictures, watching videos of her, seeing her with her family, seeing her in diplomatic visits, seeing her when she's rowing or visiting children in a hospice.

In a clip shared on Tatler's Instagram page, Hannah explained the process behind the drawing and said looking at Kate's expression was 'really key' to the painting

British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor created the quirky painting for the cover of Tatler's July issue

'It's been really interesting for me to get a sense of who she is.'

The artist said she studied the photographs and videos before beginning to sketch the Princess' face, adding that looking at Kate's facial expressions was 'key'.

'Once I'm happy with the sketch and I've done a series of sketches in my sketchbook, particularly looking at her expression was really key, and so I've done several sketches trying to capture her expression.'

Once Hannah was happy with the sketch and felt it represented the Princess' face, she then moved on to choosing the ensemble for Kate.

'This particular outfit I chose was striking. It made her look very regal and very confident,' she said.

In March, Kate revealed her own cancer diagnosis and said in a deeply emotional video message that she is undergoing 'preventative' chemotherapy.

Discussing whether the Princess' video gave her a new perspective, the artist added: 'Without a doubt. All my portraits are made up of layers of a personality, constructed from everything I can find about them.'

The video added another layer to Uzors reading of the Princess, apparently showing a moment of dealing with something difficult, speaking from the heart, having the courage to tackle it head-on.

Tatler's latest commission is its third portraiture special and Uzor, who is a mother of three and based in St Albans, is the third artist sourced by The Akoje Gallery to receive a commission from the magazine.

She follows Sarah Knights, whose portrait of King Charles III appeared on Tatlers July 2023 cover, and Oluwole Omofemi, whose tribute to Queen Elizabeth II graced the magazine's commemorative Platinum Jubilee cover in 2022.

Both of these projects inspired rugby star Maro Itoje and his business partner Khalil Akar to create The Akoje Residency Programme in collaboration with the Kings Foundation, which provides opportunities for African, Caribbean and diasporic artists to spend time at Dumfries House in Scotland to focus on their artistic practice.

The Princess of Wales accompanied a member of the South African delegation at the state banquet at Buckingham Palace in November 2022

Artist Jonathan Yeo poses next to his painting of the King at Buckingham Palace on May 14

Uzor's artwork comes after the release of the first official portrait of the King, which divided opinion online thanks to its 'fiery' shading.

The painting was commissioned back in 2020 to celebrate the then-Prince of Wales's 50 years as a member of The Drapers' Company.

Renowned artist Jonathan Yeo had four sittings over several years, beginning when His Majesty was Prince of Wales in June 2021 at Highgrove, and later at Clarence House.

Charles was still sitting for the portrait, unveiled earlier this month at Buckingham Palace, when Queen Elizabeth died on September 8th 2022 and he became monarch.

The 'fiery' painting - which is mainly red in colour - depicts His Majesty wearing the uniform of the Welsh Guards, of which he was made Regimental Colonel in 1975.

Meanwhile, Kate was revealed yesterday as the 'driving force' behind a new report calling on businesses to introduce more family-friendly working practices.

Her Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood has unveiled a major new report which argues that investing in early childhood could generate more than 45.5 billion for the national economy each year.

Downing Street, as well as senior ministers in the departments of health and education, have already been briefed about its findings - although palace officials are at pains to point out that it is not a political campaign.

A Kensington Palace spokesman also stressed that the news should not be seen as Kate returning to work after undergoing major abdominal surgery and revealing she was undergoing 'preventative chemotherapy' for cancer. She has not undertaken public engagements at all this year.

But they confirmed that she has been across every aspect of the report from home, despite her illness.

Her spokesman said: 'The work of The Prince and Princess' projects is "always on"early childhood is a huge priority for The Princess and so she has been kept fully updated throughout the development of the Taskforce's work and she has seen the report. '

A senior royal aide added: 'The Princess of Wales was the driving force behind the business task force. She has been kept up to date since the inception of the task force and she has read the report and been briefed on it.

'This is a clear commitment she has made that throughout her life of public service that this will be focus. That will continue when she returns to work. But we have been really clear that she needs the space and the privacy to recover right now. She will return to work when she has had the green light from doctors.'
Rollercoaster fans hoping to be in with a chance of riding Hyperia, Britain's fastest, tallest rollercoaster, which officially opens today, are in for a crushingly long wait - with queue times currently estimated at up to five hours.

The official opening ceremony on Thursday night saw a host of famous faces, including Junior Andre and Woody Cook, experience the towering 236ft tall ride - and the general public can finally get on board today.

Crowds arrived early to the Surrey theme park, with one fan who joined the lines describing the dawn queues as 'carnage'.

The Thorpe Park app, which estimates wait times for each ride, stated at lunchtime that riders should expect a 300-minute - five hours - queue.

Thrillseekers looking to say they rode Hyperia on its opening day arrived before 7am to get there place in the queue for the state-of-the-art rollercoaster

Fans were pictured waiting patiently for the Surrey theme park to open; Hyperia is now Britain's tallest and fastest rollercoaster

The launch is the biggest theme park opening in recent years, as adrenaline junkies brave enough to board the ride take a terrifying near vertical plunge before looping-the-loop at 80mph (129kmph) around 3,264ft (995m) of track.

Thorpe Parks director Neil Poulter, told BBC Radio Surrey that Hyperia riders would experience a weightlessness feel for more than 14 seconds, and feel like youre slightly coming out of your seat while on it.

Those lucky enough to have enjoyed its opening day have already described the ride as 'incredible' and 'the best ride in Britain'.

One said on X: 'Hyperia absolutely smashed my expectations. Totally unreal and for sure the new Number 1 coaster in the UK, by an absolute landslide. Incredible.'

The didn't officially open its doors until 10am...but on TikTok, thrill seekers posted Wimbledon-style queues to get through the gates.

While most of the park's usual favourites had smaller than average wait times, Hyperia was 300 minutes at one point during the day

The opening ceremony for the ride invited VIPs to watch the 236ft tall rollercoaster take its first official turns around a track that stretches 3,264ft (995m)

A board showing the waiting time around midday suggested that riders would have to wait 240 minutes - four hours - to take their place on the two minute ride, but the minutes rose to 300 by 1pm.

Meanwhile, others suggested that it might be a good day to take a seat on some of the other rides, with low wait times - around 15 minutes - on the likes of Stealth, Swarm and Saw.

Junior Andre, fourth from left, takes his seat on the latest ride to open at Surrey's Thorpe Park

Believe the Hype-peria! The ride was officially declared open in a ceremony on Thursday evening, with Scott O'Neil, Merlin group's chief executive

One theme park goer heading to the park tomorrow said he would be taking advantage of the short queues and re-visit to try Hyperia later in the year.

He said: 'I'm there with my family tomorrow. Anything over 4hrs, forget it. Hyperia will still be there in the months to come, so I'd rather go on the other rides that have really short queues, than wait over 4 hrs.'

The ride, which was created by US company Mack Rides, is said to be inspired by the mythical tale of the daughter of an ancient river god; riders are encouraged to 'find your fearless'.

Thrill-seekers who are just 1.3 metres can get on board and the ride has been designed with inclusivity in mind

A new area of the park, with its own food outlets, Fearless Valley, has been created around the thrill ride.
A teenager who sailed through fitness and cognitive tests when applying to join the Army was told she wasn't eligible to join 'at the last minute' because her mother and auntie had both had breast cancer diagnoses.

Carys Holmes, 17, from Derbyshire, told BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour on Friday that she was 'crushed' to learn that her dream of serving in the British military wouldn't happen - despite the fact she hadn't even been tested for the BRAC1 gene.

Holmes has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the breast cancer gene and says she was told that she wouldn't be able to serve her country because she might one day need time off for preventative surgery.

Explaining to the radio show's host Anita Rani how she 'fell in love' with the idea of joining up after attending a briefing, she said: 'I was loving it, this is what I want to do'.

She said: 'I applied in October and sent them my medical records and they glanced through them at that point - and gave me the all clear.'

Carys Holmes, 17, from Derbyshire was delighted to make it through physical and cognitive tests to join the Army, but was 'crushed' to be told at the last minute that her family history of breast cancer meant she wouldn't be allowed to sign up

Holmes says she later went to an assessment centre - after training 'very hard' - for three days of medical, fitness and cognitive tests and that's where her family history became an issue.

The possibility of her having the BRCA1 gene was on her medical records. She told the programme that she currently has a 1.9 per cent chance of developing the disease before she's 30 if she tests positive for the gene.

After sailing through the physical challenges, she continued to the final part of the process, when all the people who'd failed other elements of the tests had already been sent home.

She said: 'At this point, I thought I'd passed, that everything was fine. I was about to do my interview and get my certificate to say I'd passed my basic training and they pulled me out last minute and said to me: "You're not medically fit to join because you've got an extensive history of breast cancer in your family'".

Holmes said she told them that 'extensive' wasn't really fair because only her mother and auntie had had breast cancer diagnoses in her family.

She says that she surmised that the Army's view was that 'if I found out I had the gene, the time off I would need to have preventative surgery would basically be a hassle to them'.

Carys' mother Rachel, right, is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Her daughter hasn't yet been tested to see if she has the BRAC1 gene

The young recruit added: 'Everyone had got their certificates and was celebrating. I was the only one who hadn't got through.'

She went home and spoke to her mum, who's currently having breast cancer treatment, and the mother and daughter decided to fight the decision. The case went to appeal and initially failed.

Her mother Rachel said: 'It's really short-sighted of them, bearing in mind how they are crying out for recruits.'

Also appearing on the show was Emma Norton, a lawyer for the Centre for Military Justice.

She told Rani that the case was very unusual, saying that not offering Holmes a job was an 'own goal'.

Rachel called the decision - now overturned - by the British Army to not offer her daughter a job 'short-sighted'

Norton said: 'If the Army is operating a blanket policy of automatically excluding applications from all women who have a history of breast cancer in their family, that would appear, on the face of it, to be unlawful because it is discriminatory and may even amount to a human-rights violation.

What are the risks if you have the BRAC1 gene?

About one in every 400 people carry the faulty BRCA genes. Women who carry a BRCA gene mutation are at higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer. According to the NHS out of 100 women with a BRCA1 gene mutation, between 65 and 85 will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Between 40 and 63 will develop ovarian cancer. Out of 100 women with the BRCA2 mutation, between 40 and 85 will develop breast cancer at some point in their life. In some cases, patients with the faulty genes may be offered risk-reducing surgery, which removes tissue such as breasts or ovaries, that could become cancerous. Advertisement

'And this is at a time when the Army really should be doing all that it can to improve its reputation amongst women and encourage more and more young people to join up. It does seem to be a very serious own goal.'

According to the NHS out of 100 women with a BRCA1 gene mutation, between 65 and 85 will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Between 40 and 63 will develop ovarian cancer.

Out of 100 women with the BRCA2 mutation, between 40 and 85 will develop breast cancer at some point in their life.

In some cases, patients with the faulty genes may be offered risk-reducing surgery, which removes tissue such as breasts or ovaries, that could become cancerous.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Army told the BBC: 'If a candidate appears at risk of a specific genetic disorder, the occupational physician responsible for recruit selection will assess the risk and its likely impact on the candidates health and safety in a military workplace - normally, without the need for genetic testing.'

However, Holmes was told last week that a job offer was back on the table, after a spokesperson said: 'We can confirm that were reviewing the circumstances of this case and have contacted the individual to explain whats happened and apologise.

'The issue is now being managed by the Armys head of recruiting, personally.'

The teenager will now start her basic training in October.
A neuroscientist has revealed the best morning routine for optimal brain function and explained the shocking link between lack of exercise and dementia.

Dr Wendy Suzuki, who is a Professor of Neural Science and Psychology at New York University, appeared on Dragons' Den star Steven Bartlett's The Diary of a CEO podcast, to discuss brain health.

The bestselling author of books such as, Good Anxiety and Healthy Brain, Happy Life revealed studies have shown exercise can 'protect your brain from aging'.

She explained: 'Exercise can improve your mood, it makes your memory better and it improves the function of your prefrontal cortex and I thought ''wow that is amazing''.

The professor went on to explain how her own family situation increased her interest in how exercise impacts the brain, after her father's cognition began to decline.

Dr Wendy Suzuki, who is a Professor of Neural Science and Psychology at New York University, revealed the best morning routine for optimal brain function

She recalled: 'I got a call from my mom to say my father wasn't feeling well, he had gotten lost driving home from the coffee shop he had drove to every day for the last 20 years and the hippocampus is particularly important for spatial memory.'

Hippocampus is a complex brain structure embedded deep into temporal lobe. It plays a major role in learning and memory.

The doctor added: 'As an expert in the hippocampus I knew that that was a telltale sign of dementia and maybe Alzheimer's dementia.'

'As I talked to my father, and of course we went and got him a neurology appointment, I saw that everything that seemed to be improving in me, that is memory, focus, very very suddenly diminished in him.

'The loss of his cognitive functions that turned out to be Alzheimer's dementia, made me think that the power of physical activity needed to be explored more deeply.

'That made me actually switch my research focus from memory function to understanding the effects of physical activity on the brain.'

Dr Wendy went onto explain that brains can change shape and the frontal cortex can become stronger through mental stimulation and exercise.

She revealed professor Marian Diamond discovered brain plasticity in the late 1960s by experimenting with rats, putting some of the rodents in a box with no stimulation and others in a box with toys and an exercise wheel.

Dr Wendy explained: 'She found that the the brains of those rats raised in the Disney World of rat cages the outer covering of the brain was actually thicker.'

Dr Wendy appeared on Dragons' Den star Steven Bartlett 's (pictured) The Diary of a CEO podcast, to discuss brain health

'Later studies showed that you get almost identical effects by just giving rats a running wheel physical activity is doing all of that which has the potential to change the rodent brain and now in the human brain.'

The professor added that although they don't know the cause of Alzheimer's and Dementia there are ways for people to 'protect their brain from aging'.

She said: 'My number one most powerful tool that you can do to protect your brain from aging and from neurodegenerative diseases is start walking. Why do I start with that? Because everybody can walk, you don't need to buy any new fitness outfits just go out and walk more.

'From that study that I mentioned, in the 65 year olds there is a 30 percent reduction in the probability of getting Alzheimer's with just walking.'

Elsewhere the neuroscientist recommended her own morning routine for optimal brain function...

1. 45 minute meditation

She said: 'Every morning I like to wake up and I start with about a 45 minute tea meditation, which is a meditation over the brewing and drinking of tea and this is after many years of yo-yo meditating.

'I knew meditation was good but I just couldn't really get into it and I was introduced to this form of meditation by a monk who invited me to tea, and we just did this silent meditation outside in a beautiful location.

'The ritual of brewing, drinking, steeping, re starting over again, kind of kept me in the flow.'

2. 30 minute workout

She said: 'I try and do cardio strength, sometimes I do yoga, sometimes I just do mobility.'

3. Hot and cold contrast shower

She said: 'A hot cold contrast shower is also something very helpful for my brain health because it really gives that adrenaline boost that just energizes me and I love that feeling at the beginning of the day.'

After her morning routine she has her breakfast and goes to work with a clearer mind.
His recent BBC series with Rob Rinder saw him uncovering the secrets of the Renaissance on a grand Italian tour - and now it seems Rylan has fallen in love with politics.

Tuning into Wednesday's chaotic Downing Street announcement by Rishi Sunak that the country will have a general election on July 4th, the former X Factor star-turned-Radio 2 broadcaster poured praise on Sky News' Political Editor Beth Rigby.

Sharing a clip of the political journaliast shouting a question in the rain outside in Westminster, Rylan wrote: 'Obsessed with the Rigby'.

And, the feeling was reciprocated, with Digby, known for her hard-nosed coverage on the frontline of politics, replying to the compliment with a video message.

Beth Rigby, Sky New's Political Editor, is known for firing tough questions at politicians - but she showed her softer side with a video for Rylan

She told Rylan, who shot to fame as a contestant on ITV's reality talent show in 2012, when he was in his early twenties: 'I am obsessed with you too, and I think you get to cover stuff that's a bit more fun than I do.'

She continued: 'If you do like politics, I know the Venn diagram between people that love watching and listening to Rylan and the people that love politics might be quite narrow but give us a follow.'

She also made a plea for the star to come on her Electoral Dysfunction podcast, saying 'it would make my day'.

In his latest BBC series, Rob & Rylans Grand Tour, Rylan Clark and his close friend Rob Rinder spent time enjoying - and learning about - cultural sights in Venice and Florence

Rigby made a plea for the BBC Radio 2 DJ to make an appearance on her Electoral Dysfunction podcast after Rylan appeared to show an interest in politics

Rylan neither confirmed or denied that he would appear on the audio show but instead posted in response: 'I think I'm actually dying'.

The Radio 2 star appears to be enjoying the intellectual side of life. His recent three-part BBC Rob and Rylans Grand Tour series with TV barrister and occasional GMB host Rob Rinder saw the pair touring the historic sights of Italy.

With the cameras rolling, the friends spoke movingly about their respective divorces and looking to rebuilding their lives in a show billed as a bittersweet 'heartbreak holiday' - but the programme also saw Rylan introduced to Italian Renaissance art and classical music, thanks to his friend.

Rylan joked that the nearest Ive got to classical music is when Pete Tong did Ibiza dance tunes with an orchestra, but nevertheless he threw himself into the culture with a passion.

You've come a long way, baby! Rylan has transformed himself from a novelty act - prone to sobbing - to becoming a household name

The reinvention of Rylan Clark! The broadcaster pictured while filming Rob and Rylan's Grand Tour for the BBC

On the trip, the duo retraced the steps of the 18th and 19th century English aristocrats who left the confines of British society behind to seek freedom and adventure on a classic upper class gap year.

In particular, Rob and Rylan follow the most famous Grand Tourist of all, Romantic poet Lord Byron, on the 200th anniversary of his death.

He travelled to Venice in 1816 and then on to Florence and Rome, fleeing a scandalous divorce caused partly because he slept with his half-sister.

I dont often compare myself to Byron, but I too am a divorcee, said criminal barrister Rob, 45, best known as formidable Judge Rinder on his ITV reality courtroom show.

The friends' new series, Rob & Rylans Grand Tour, has proved a big hit for the pair

While his singing voice didn't set the world on fire in 2012, Rylan did impress judges on X Factor with his performances - and unique outfits including left, a cowl hooded beige number, and, right, a gold lame affair

He and his ex-husband, barrister Seth Cumming, divorced in 2018.

And so is Rylan. And were both looking for a new start too.

The barrister, given an MBE in 2021 for services to Holocaust education, has said that Rylan has become one of his closest friends.

Hes the real deal, which is rare. He isnt just the friend you call in a crisis - thats the easy bit - hes the mate who will celebrate with gusto with you when great things happen, thats the true barometer of friendship.
As a child, Katie Downey would perch on the stairs of her parents' cottage and listen to their angry arguments when they thought she was in bed.

'It was usually about money,' she says. 'I didn't understand what was going on, just that they were always upset and emotional.'

What the 11-year-old Katie did know was her life had already been turned upside down.

Months earlier, her parents Tony and Caroline had told their only daughter they were leaving their village home in Cumbria to start a new life abroad in rural France.

For Katie it meant moving from the place she loved and everything  and everyone  she knew.

Katie Downey with her mother Caroline and father Tony, who was a subpostmaster

Unable to speak the language and bullied by local children, for two years she barely spoke a word to a soul.

As the years went by, her bewilderment morphed into growing resentment at the way her parents had  as she saw it  ruined her life.

It would take years before Katie, now 28 and a language teacher, learned the devastating truth: it was the Post Office that had, effectively, taken away her childhood.

For her loving father was one of hundreds of subpostmasters affected by the Horizon accounting software scandal. So distraught was he after the Post Office computer system showed he had financial losses and demanded repayment that  as Katie only recently learned  he became suicidal.

'It's the most horrible thing to know about your father,' she tells me quietly. 'For so many years I thought all my unhappiness was my parents' fault. Now I know what they went through, I feel so much guilt that I harboured those feelings for so many years.'

Tragically, Katie is certainly not alone  and her plight is not singular. Here, for the first time, the Mail has bought together four of the many young people whose parents were victims of the Post Office scandal to tell their hitherto untold stories of blighted childhoods, missed opportunities and lasting trauma.

One of them, Millie Castleton, was so mentally afflicted by her parents' financial struggles she was hospitalised with bulimia. Another devoted son, Varchas Patel, abandoned his dearly held plans for university and instead worked night and day to give his parents 60,000 to try to balance their Post Office books as his father's health deteriorated month by month.

It is little surprise that none of them were moved this week by the sight of the Post Office's former chief executive Paula Vennells' tearful appearance and repeated apologies at the ongoing inquiry this week: 'Too little too late' is how Varchas describes it. 'It's not going to bring back those who took their lives, or [ease] the harassment and stress people endured, and it's not going to fix my dad.'

As for Katie, after watching her parents' previously happy life implode, not only did she become effectively mute for years, she but plunged into a depression and anxiety so bleak she needed months of therapy. There are so many children of the victims of the Post Office that Katie has now set up a campaigning group for them, Lost Chances, to seek their own form of financial redress.

Katie Downey, now 28, has set up the Lost Chances support group for children of subpostmasters caught up in the scandal

While Katie holds out little hope of recompense from the Government, she hopes the technology company Fujitsu, which provided the faulty Horizon accounting software, may be willing to discuss the issue.

'We're called Lost Chances because that's the reality of life for all of us,' Katie says. 'Whether [it's] financial or educational [disruption], connections with family, a happy childhood there are so many things we lost.

'None of this is to take away from the horror our parents went through, but the Post Office needs to understand that what it did affected so many of us. Some are so traumatised they've never discussed it before.'

Indeed, some lost parents to suicide; others watched them go to jail.

'Seeing what it's done to so many families makes me so angry,' another Post Office 'daughter', Rebekah Foot, told the Mail. 'I'm the voice for my five siblings, but I'm also the voice of everyone who has gone through this.'

Today, of course, the cause of their trauma barely needs explanation. Between 1991 and 2015, nearly 800 innocent subpostmasters and postmistresses were wrongly accused of accounting errors that were instead down to a defective IT system.

Relying on computerised evidence alone, the Post Office pursued them for money it said they owed  and prosecuted if they failed to reimburse it.

Former Post Office boss Paula Vennells becomes tearful while giving evidence at the inquiry into the Horizon scandal

Katie was six when, in 2001, her father Tony took over the small, local post office in the Cumbrian village of Hawkshead for 80,000 with a loan guaranteed against the home of his wife Caroline's parents.

Katie was six when, in 2001, her father Tony took over the small, local ost office in the Cumbrian village of Hawkshead for 80,000 with a loan guaranteed against the home of his wife Caroline's parents.

Katie was six when, in 2001, her father Tony took over the small, local ost office in the Cumbrian village of Hawkshead for 80,000 with a loan guaranteed against the home of his wife Caroline's parents.

Katie was six when, in 2001, her father Tony took over the small, local Post Office in the Cumbrian village of Hawkshead for 80,000 with a loan guaranteed against the home of his wife Caroline's parents.

At first, Katie knew nothing of the stress unfolding in the post office where she played shop when she came home from school.

At first, Katie knew nothing of the stress unfolding in the post office where she played shop when she came home from school.

'We had ponies; I went to a small, local school where everyone knew everyone. I basically had a lovely childhood,' she says.

The reality was, from the start, her father had been experiencing unexpected losses in his new business, which rapidly grew to thousands of pounds every month.

A desperate Tony took out credit cards and used his overdraft to try to shore up the seeming gap. By 2007, facing a 'shortfall' of 7,000, he felt he had no option but to sell the branch for 100,000  around 40,000 less than its estimated value  and, along with it, his home.

With every penny spent on repaying the loan to safeguard his in-laws' house and catching up on arrears, the couple declared themselves bankrupt.

Tony reached his lowest ebb, and contemplated taking his own life.

Katie, however, was only aware of constant tension.

Then, one day, aged 11, her parents told her they were going to start a new life in France.

'They tried to make it sound positive, but from the day they told me I resented them,' she says. 'Now I know Dad couldn't bear to be in the village any more. He felt he'd failed. All I knew was I was being taken away from everything I loved.

'Two days after they told me, the car was packed and we left.'

Katie with her mother on her pony outside the Hawkshead Post Office in Cumbria

The Downeys moved to a village in rural Limousin, where Katie felt horribly isolated. 'I couldn't speak French, I was severely bullied, held up against walls, laughed at. I refused to speak at school. At home I just locked myself in my room,' she says.

Her parents, trapped in their own cycle of despair, were unable to help their anguished daughter, who spent her early teenage years plotting to return to England.

Aged 18, she came back to the UK for university  only to be overcome with anxiety and depression, requiring months of therapy.

In the meantime, her parents moved to Spain. Disconnected from the British news cycle, astonishingly it was only 18 months ago that Tony learned he was one of Horizon's victims.

When he told his daughter, it opened the floodgates to a maelstrom of emotions  anger, sorrow, immense guilt for her youthful rage at her parents  for Katie. 'We're still working through those,' she says.

Those feelings were reinforced when Katie decided to attend part of the public inquiry into the scandal. It left her determined to talk to others like her. Without exception, 'every one said "I get it, we all feel guilty"', she says.

One she met was Rebekah, a now 27-year-old general manager from Liverpool whose mother Pamela Church, now 49, had run a post office branch in the city all her working life.

'She'd worked at my granddad and grandma's post office, then took on her own in 1995,' she recalls. 'It was a massive part of her life and mine. She was back behind the counter 24 hours after I was born, with me in my car seat fresh out of hospital.'

Rebekah Foot, now 27, whose mother Pamela Church had run a post office branch in Liverpool all her working life

Rebekah, the third eldest of Pamela's six children, was long unaware of the stress her mother and stepfather Jason were under. Nor did she know her mum was desperately trying to shore up seeming losses week after week.

Then in 2006, when Rebekah was ten, her mum's cousin, who also worked in a post office branch, was convicted of false accounting on Christmas Eve.

'Both sides of the family were told we couldn't speak to each other,' she recalls. 'It set one end of the family against another. We couldn't start comparing notes. Instead we thought we had a thief in the family. It was horrible.'

As her own financial woes mounted, her mum became afflicted by panic attacks. By the age of 13, Rebekah and her older siblings juggled school alongside weekend and holiday jobs to bring money in.

'By 14 I worked ten hours a day, five days a week in school holidays, in a fish and chip shop,' she says. 'We never did the family stuff  cinema trips, Christmas wish lists money was so tight.

'At one point Mum had to borrow money from me to help pay her staff. Now I realise how hard that must have been for her.'

At home, Rebekah took on the role of nurturer. 'Mum was under so much stress that, even though I'm not the eldest, as the oldest girl I ended up becoming the head of the family,' she says.

Her voice cracks as she recalls how she learned that her mother, then under immense strain, had written letters to her relatives asking them to look after her children. 'She kept a lot from us,' she says. 'I've no doubt there's a huge amount we still don't know.'

Rebekah's mum was eventually made bankrupt. Now diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the spine, she is no longer able to work.

'She was cut off in her prime,' says Rebekah. 'We lost what would have been a normal childhood which we can never get back.'

It's a feeling Millie Castleton recognises. Her parents, Lee and Lisa, were wrongly accused of theft at their Bridlington Post Office branch, which they bought in 2003. As well as enduring eventual bankruptcy, they were vilified in their local community.

As the Castletons revealed in a heart-breaking interview to the Mail before Christmas, they became so overwhelmed that Lisa developed seizures while Lee contemplated taking his own life.

Millie Castleton with her younger brother CJ in their Post Office flat at Christmas in 2004

Both Millie, now 28 and a teacher, and her younger brother CJ, 26, grew up with their parents fighting court battles, working every hour God sent to try to make things right.

'Every part of my late childhood and teens was tainted by the Post Office,' Millie said.

Desperate not to add to her parents' stress, she even withheld from them the fact she was being terribly bullied at school and mocked as the daughter of thieves.

'Although I didn't fully understand, I knew my parents had enough going on. I didn't want to add my stress to theirs,' Millie recalls now. 'I bottled everything up.'

Over time that manifested itself in an eating disorder which, from the age of 17, saw her hospitalised more than once. 'Everything around me was out of control. Stopping eating was the one aspect I could control,' she says.

It took six years for Millie to fight her way back to health, while her parents took many years to claw their way back to some form of financial stability. Both will be working long past retirement age to keep afloat.

'I am so proud of how they coped, but they should never have had to do it in the first place,' she says. 'It's very hard to accept.'

Millie has found solace in connecting with others like her, with several meeting for the first time this week.

'Everyone in the group has suffered trauma,' she says. 'Knowing we had similar troubles has made a huge difference.'

Lisa and Lee Castleton were wrongly accused of theft at their Bridlington Post Office branch, which they bought in 2003

'It was like we all knew each other from a different world,' adds Varchas Patel, 36. 'We have lost friends, relationships and family connections.'

Varchas' father Vipin had taken over their rural post office in Horspath, Oxfordshire, in 2002, after years of working at a busy Crown branch in the capital. Aged 57, retirement was on the horizon.

Instead, within just nine years, a Post Office audit determined a shortfall of 34,000.

'One day my father was a respected pillar of the community, he'd been nominated to become a magistrate  and the next, he had turned into a petty criminal,' Varchas recalls.

By that point, Vipin had already cashed in his Royal Mail pension and sold family heirlooms to raise the 41,000 needed to plug the hole of the Horizon-related 'discrepancies' so far. Whatever he did was never enough. 'It was like a bottomless pit,' says Varchas.

Both Varchas' parents worked hard to keep their mounting stress away from their son  by then living in London  and his younger sister.

But following prosecution for fraud in June 2011, for which Vipin received an 18-week suspended sentence, mounting hostility erupted among some in the village.

Varchas Patel with his father Vipin, who was prosecuted for fraud in June 2011

'There was harassment and intimidation from locals, and it lasted for quite a long time,' says Varchas. 'Posters of my father saying "Wanted, dead or alive" were circulated. One was put on my parents' front door. People would bad-mouth them to friends right in front of them.

'Whenever I visited I was targeted by locals telling us to get out of the village. Other so-called friends completely dropped me,' he says.

Even family members turned again them, calling them thieves, while in one particularly horrific episode the family found a 4ft cross memorial cemented into the village green, engraved with the words 'RIP Vipin'.

'What kind of a person does that?' Varchas asks, his bewilderment evident.

The effect on Vipin's health was catastrophic: paralysed with anxiety to the point of being bedridden, his mental health only partially recovered when his conviction was quashed in December 2020.

His son, meanwhile, gave up his student dreams in his 20s to help financially, giving his parents around 60,000 over the course of the next eight years. 'I had to continue to work six days a week  that's what you do for family,' he says. 'For years I worked overtime, too. I love my parents dearly and didn't want to see them bankrupt.'

As for Paula Vennells, he has one word for her. 'She's a hypocrite,' he says. It's a sentiment echoed by Rebekah, who refuses to believe that Vennells was unaware of what was unfolding on her watch. 'She will never understand the extent of the trauma suffered,' she says. 'Her empty apologies mean nothing to me.'
When it comes to style, we are all inspired by what we see; whether it be a well-dressed celebrity, a blow-your-mind catwalk presentation or even a fashionable passerby.

As fashion editors, we're moved by all of the above, and then some. We're exposed to under-the-radar labels; we get a first-hand look at collections months before they hit stores; we attend VIP events; we're tapped into brands with chic-yet-cheap offerings and we shop  a lot.

To share our knowledge, FEMAIL brings you Style Swoon, a weekly series of the latest, greatest and on the verge. We hope this series will serve as a buying guide and point of inspiration for all.

Chase Stokes , actor and star of Netflix s ' Outer Banks ,' has teamed up with online eyewear retailer Zenni Optical, to introduce an exclusive eyewear collection designed to complement every lifestyle

Sunglasses for every occasion

On Monday, May 20th, Chase Stokes, actor and star of Netflixs 'Outer Banks,' teamed up with online eyewear retailer Zenni Optical, to introduce an exclusive eyewear collection designed to complement every lifestyle.

The "Zenni x Chase Stokes Collection" features hand-selected unisex frames personally curated by the star to complement any daily activity.

As a glasses wearer he recognizes the significance of smart looking eyewear to meet all of life's needs  whether it's hitting the gym, enjoying outdoor grilling sessions, or making appearances on the red carpet.

The "Zenni x Chase Stokes Collection" features over 35 hand-selected unisex frames personally curated by the star to complement any daily activity

'Eyewear has been an important part of my life since I was young, and Zenni's dedication to affordability and quality aligns perfectly with my values,' said Chase Stokes

'Whether you're like me and always on the move, or you just appreciate having a variety of options, there's a style in here for you. That's what Zenni's all about - eyewear for everyone and every style, no matter where life takes you.'

The collection consists of over 35 versatile unisex frames that are thoughtfully selected to complement any outfit, mood or daily activity.

Prices start at just $23.95, and all frames can be ordered as sunglasses, with prescription and/or Blokz blue light-blocking lenses.

Prices start at just $23.95, and all frames can be ordered as sunglasses, with prescription and/or Blokz blue light-blocking lenses

'Chase's enthusiasm for eyewear, eye protection, and fashion shines through in every frame of this collection,' said Veronica Alcaro, Zenni's VP of Brand.

'His unique style and approachable personality make him a perfect fit for Zenni as he helps champion our mission of providing stylish, affordable eyewear to everyone.'

The campaign was directed by Nathan Presley, shot by Phil Chester and Sara Byrne and styled by Avo Yermagyan.

Female-founded brands M. Gemi and Cosabella just launched their inaugural collaboration of swimwear and sandals that transports you to the Italian seaside

Shoes and suits

On Tuesday, May 21st, female-founded brands M. Gemi and Cosabella just launched their inaugural collaboration of swimwear and sandals that transports you to the Italian seaside.

A shared tie to Italian heritage and craftsmanship, both labels, aim to preserve centuries-old, generational craft and livelihood of Italian makers while offering accessible luxury styles.

A shared tie to Italian heritage and craftsmanship, both labels, aim to preserve centuries-old, generational craft and livelihood of Italian makers while offering accessible luxury styles

Complementing the footwear offerings is Cosabella's Vita Marina swimwear collection

M.Gemi is known for their handcrafted shoes, handbags, and accessories, and Cosabella, for its luxury lingerie made of bespoke lace with an exceptional fit.

The collection includes a curated selection of three M.Gemi sandal styles: the celebrity-loved Matilde slide adorned with suede-covered buckles, the Positano-style Medio sandal with elegant crossover straps, and the elevated Lizza platform boasting a distinctive flared heel, embodying sophistication and style.

Complementing the footwear offerings is Cosabella's Vita Marina swimwear collection.

The body flattering suits are crafted from an Italian performance knit designed for snatching and sculpting, offering subtle compression and anti-slip properties for a secure fit.

Additionally, the fabric boasts quick-drying capabilities, a UPF factor of 50+, and resistance to pilling.

Key products include a convertible 4-way bandeau bikini top, a skirt-to-high-waist bottom conversion, and a figure-enhancing bandeau one-piece.

On Wednesday, May 22nd, fashion brand Tombolo and the Sopranos hosted a party in celebration of their collaboration at New York City's latest hotspot Mulberry Street Bar, located at 176 Mulberry Street in Manhattan's West Village

In true Italian fashion, the ready-to-wear collection was cleverly on display on smoking mannequins sitting at tables dressed in checkered tablecloths with large plates of spaghetti and meatballs

Italian-inspired fits

On Wednesday, May 22nd, fashion brand Tombolo and the Sopranos hosted a party in celebration of their collaboration at New York City's latest hotspot Mulberry Street Bar, located at 176 Mulberry Street in Manhattan's West Village.

Guests - including Chris Galasso, Mike Sard, Heidi Gardner, Emilio Vitolo, Anthony Demonte, Arianna Margulis, Drew Jessup and more - enjoyed hand rolled cigars, gabagool, and live performances straight out of the Bada Bing Club.

In true Italian fashion, the ready-to-wear collection was cleverly on display on smoking mannequins sitting at tables dressed in checkered tablecloths with large plates of spaghetti and meatballs.

Tombolo was founded in 2018 by two best friends since childhood in New York.

Tombolo was founded in 2018 by two best friends since childhood in New York.

The escapewear brand offers spirited and original apparel that transports customers to a different time, place or state of mind.

Their design philosophy is grounded in a serious commitment to high quality eco-friendly materials, targeted support for social causes, and treat-your-customers-like-your-friends service. T

The label is best known for its creative reimagining of cabana shirts -- the terry cloth, poolside ensembles that were popular in the 1950s and 60s.

Guests - including Chris Galasso, Mike Sard, Heidi Gardner, Emilio Vitolo, Anthony Demonte, Arianna Margulis, Drew Jessup and more - enjoyed hand rolled cigars, gabagool, and live performances straight out of the Bada Bing Club

On Thursday, May 23rd, women's clothing brand Ciao Lucia and shoe brand Margaux hosted an intimate lunch in celebration of their collaboration

The elegant soiree took place at The Little Prince located at 199 Prince Street in Manhattan's Soho area

The perfect summer sandal

On Thursday, May 23rd, women's clothing brand Ciao Lucia and shoe brand Margaux hosted an intimate lunch in celebration of their collaboration.

The elegant soiree took place at The Little Prince located at 199 Prince Street in Manhattan's Soho area.

Industry experts Lucy Akin, Alexa Buckley Roussel, Sarah Pierson, Leandra Medine Irina Grechko and more were in attendance and dressed to impress on the warm spring day.

Industry experts Lucy Akin, Alexa Buckley Roussel, Sarah Pierson, Leandra Medine Irina Grechko and more were in attendance and dressed to impress on the warm spring day

Founded in 2017 by Lucy Akin, Sarah Pierson and Alexa Buckley launched Margaux in 2015

Just in time for summer, the two brands collaborated on the perfect leather sandal dubbed The Palermo.

The limited edition shoe featured perfectly placed straps and a cushioned insole that make it ideal for long summer days (and nights).

It's available in two colorways, brown and black, and retails for $275.

The Palermo is available in two colorways, brown and black, and retails for $275

Founded in 2017 by Lucy Akin, LA-based brand Ciao Lucia has quickly become a celebrity staple.

It's been seen on the likes of Kaia Gerber, Kendall Jenner, Margot Robbie, Jennifer Lawrence and Gigi Hadid.

The ready-to-wear brand of clothing and accessories focuses on timeless and classic silhouettes, inspired by nostalgia for travel, that easily become wardrobe essentials.

Harvard graduates Sarah Pierson and Alexa Buckley launched Margaux in 2015 with the mission of creating beautiful shoes that meet the demands of everyday life.

Designed in New York City, and crafted in Spain, Margaux also offers inclusive sizing with its vast range (from EU 33 to 45) and option to choose from three widths (narrow, medium, or wide).
An American traveller revealed her shock after visiting Woolworths

An American traveller has caused a stir with her 'hilarious' reaction to a Melbourne supermarket.

Tiffany Chen recently posted a video about the 'shocking things' she encountered at Woolworths including six different Tim Tim flavours, a lack of kangaroo meat in the deli, and 'strange' brands she'd never heard of.

'I've only ever seen one flavour of Tim Tam,' she said. 'There's such a variety of Vegemite - they also have gluten free and less salt!'

Tiffany was surprised when she went to the deli section and couldn't find any kangaroo meat - but that wasn't the most upsetting part of her grocery store visit.

'Oh my lord, the eggs are not in a fridge!' she exclaimed after discovering the egg aisle. 'They're just sitting her on a shelf.'

Tiffany Chen posted a video about 'shocking things' she encountered at Woolworths

Australian food and safety regulations state that eggs do not need to be refrigerated because they are not pasteurised, unlike in America.

Eggs in New Zealand also do not need to be refrigerated.

A Woolworths staff member also commented and revealed that all stores do not sell kangaroo meat, but that it is usually placed by the chicken.

Tiffany was also befuddled by the chips aisle.

'The Cheetos come in balls? What are Twisties? Smiths? Cheezels? Is it like Cheez-Its and weasels?' she asked.

She also claimed Australia's packet mac and cheese was the 'first time she's seen mac and cheese she doesn't want to eat'.

The traveller did not know Tim Tams came in various flavours

Tiffany seemed confused to find new Australian brands she'd never encountered before

Tiffany seemed confused to find new Australian brands she'd never encountered before.

'I've never seen these brands [of toilet paper] in my life - except for Kleenex,' she said, walking down the toiletry aisle.

The traveller was also shocked by the size of avocados and bananas, claiming they were 'much bigger' than the fruit she's seen in California.

Many Australians didn't appreciate Tiffany's jabs.

'At least the tax is included in the price,' one said.

'You're freaking out over six Tim Tam flavours when you have aisles full of different cereals,' another added.

'You know what I don't get as an Aussie ... creamer. Why don't you just use milk?' a man asked.

'It's almost like a different country will have different brands and food,' a woman wrote. 'It shouldn't be shocking.'
South Korea's military has detected suspected signs of North Korea making preparations to launch a military spy satellite, an official said Friday.

In December, Pyongyang vowed to launch three more spy satellites this year, a month after successfully placing its first one into orbit. South Korea's Defense Minister Shin Won-sik told reporters earlier this year that the North's Malligyong-1 spy satellite appears to be orbiting Earth without activity.

"As apparent signs of preparations for the launch of North Korea's purported military spy satellite have recently been detected in the Tongchang-ri area, South Korean and U.S. intelligence authorities are closely monitoring and tracking related activities," the Joint Chiefs of Staff official said.

North Korea's Sohae Satellite Launching Ground is located in Tongchang-ri in the northwestern province of North Pyongan. (Yonhap)
Shoppers are concerned over the disappearance of some of their old favourites from the sweet treats aisle at the supermarket.

Australian shoppers have noticed Bounty chocolate bars 'vanishing' from stores in recent months and were worried the confectionery item had been discontinued.

The missing Bounty bars continue a 'worrying trend' of iconic confectionery buys vanishing - behind a popular Allen's chocolate and beloved Five Flavours Lifesavers.

However, a Mars Wrigley spokesperson confirmed that while Bounty was experiencing a manufacturing issue, the popular coconut chocolate will be back on supermarket shelves in the middle of June.

'Our much-loved Bounty is not going anywhere, however due to capacity constraints at our factory in Europe, Australian consumers may be experiencing stock shortages in some areas of the country,' a spokesperson told FEMAIL.

Australian shoppers have noticed Bounty chocolate bars 'vanishing' from stores

The missing Bounty bars continue a 'worrying trend' of iconic confectionery buys vanishing - behind a popular Allen's chocolate and beloved Five Flavours Lifesavers

Australians recently shared their frustrations with the popular buy on Reddit.

'What's up with Bounty chocolate bars vanishing?' a shopper asked.

'Every time I go to Coles or Woolies, I can never find them. I went to Big W and the only area they had them was in the grab stands at the registers. Are they being discontinued or something?'

A few recommended alternatives.

'Sorry to be cliche and recommend Aldi, but the Aldi versions are good and made in Europe - so you're getting the good chocolate,' one said.

'Whittaker's coconut chocolate!' another exclaimed.

A woman shared that she has started making them at home.

'You can make your own with three ingredients: condensed milk, shredded coconut, and melted chocolate. It tastes the same.'
Weight loss jabs can slash the chances of dying from kidney disease by almost a quarter, a world-first study found.

Patients given semaglutide  the key ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy  were less likely to progress to kidney failure or need transplants in what has been hailed a game-changer for the condition.

They were also far less likely to die from heart attack or stroke, compounding recent findings that it is the biggest breakthrough in cardiovascular disease since statins.

Known for dramatic weight-loss, experts believe these latest benefits are independent, with the drug triggering a separate response in kidney cells.

Researchers said the apparent wonder drug is saving kidneys, hearts and lives, boosting survival chances in conditions traditionally seen as a death sentence.

Patients given semaglutide  the key ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy  were less likely to progress to kidney failure or need transplants, a a world-first study has found

This chart shows how kidney patients given semaglutide (yellow line) had less chance of suffering major kidney injuries compared to patients on the placebo (grey line). The larger chart shows the raw data, where as the smaller chart shows this calculated as a decreased risk of an event, which translates to a 24 per cent less risk of a serious kidney problem among patients taking the Ozempic ingrideint cohort

Professor Vlado Perkovic, lead researcher from the University of New South Wales, Sydney, said it was a truly exciting day for kidney patients.

He said: The benefits that we saw were bigger than we dared hope and we think its a game-changer for diabetes and kidney disease.

We think it's a really huge step forward for the community and very exciting for people with kidney disease due to diabetes.

Uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure are the biggest causes of chronic kidney disease which kills around 45,000 people in the UK each year.

Rising levels of type 2 diabetes is driving a tsunami of kidney disease around the world, affecting around 7.2 million people in the UK.

The global FLOW trial involved 3,500 patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, including 62 from the UK, who were followed for more than three years.

They were either given the appetite suppressant semaglutide - a prescription drug offered by the NHS  or a placebo.

One in 20 of the people on the dummy drug and existing treatments died during this period, showing the levels of sickness among these patients.

Given once weekly at the same dose as Ozempic, it was found to slash the risk of serious kidney problems or death due to heart or kidney causes by 24 per cent.

The risk of major cardiovascular events  such as heart attacks and stroke decreased by 18 per cent and the chances of dying early from any cause fell by a fifth (20 per cent).

Speaking ahead of presenting the findings at the European Renal Association Congress in Stockholm, Sweden, this weekend Professor Perkovic said the potential implications are dramatic.

Firstly, just by reducing the progression of kidney disease, fewer people will reach dialysis, which will reduce the numbers of people on dialysis and also the numbers of people who need kidney transplants.

In the long term, with fewer people needing transplants, they might become more rapidly available to those who do still need them, and therefore reduced the sort of waiting period before goes well.

The findings come less than a fortnight after research presented at the European Congress on Obesity showed Novo-Nordisks drug slashed the chances of heart attack and stroke by a fifth.

'Miracle' slimming jabs like Ozempic and Wegovy, hailed by celebrities including Jeremy Clarkson (left) and Elon Musk (right), are proven to help people lose up to 2st. But experts said that anyone relying on them to combat long term weight loss could be left disappointed, with the effects of the drugs halting after just months

A spike in demand for the jabs, fuelled by celebrity endorsements, has also seen global stocks run low. But mounting evidence, however, suggests that in the real world, the drugs' side-effects such as vomiting and diarrhoea are proving so common and overwhelming that it makes the current versions impractical for most patients to stay on for very long. Both Sharon Osbourne and Oprah Winfrey have admitted to taking Ozempic

Leading cardiologists hailed the breakthrough as the biggest since the 1990s when statins were introduced, now taken by millions of Britons.

Professor Perkovic said further research is needed to ascertain what exactly is behind the response and whether it could one day be used for other forms of kidney disease.

He added: There'll be great interest moving forward in whether this might actually help protect the kidney function and people with transplants but that hasn't been studied to date but will be an important area for the future.

Its not the first time that the revolutionary weight loss jabs have been hailed as a breakthrough for kidney disease.

Earlier this year, Professor Katherine Tuttle, a kidney researcher at the University of Washington who was also involved in the study, told the Mail on Sunday early results suggested the drug could 'completely change' how medics treat kidney disease.

We could save so many lives, and thousands from requiring dialysis or the anxiety of needing a new organ,' she said.

She added: We are at a revolutionary time for kidney disease  this could turn out to be one of the biggest breakthroughs in medical history.

Medics are still unsure why semaglutide has such a pronounced effect on kidney disease.

Its possible GLP-1 drugs have an anti-inflammatory effect, Professor Tuttle said.

Kidney disease is often defined by scarring inside the organ, but early studies suggest GLP-1 agonists may protect patients from this damage.

We hope that, if patients get treated long enough, they could begin to get better.

Dr Aisling McMahon, executive director research at Kidney Research UK, said the UK is facing a 'looming crisis' with growing numbers needing dialysis due to rising levels of diabetes, one of the most significant risk factors for chronic kidney disease.

She said: 'We are very encouraged to see the results of the FLOW Trial, which has shown semaglutide improves survival and also slows the decline in kidney function in this group of patients.

'Hopefully this is just the beginning  we would love to see further research involving patients with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease who may benefit from this treatment.'

Save the jabs for ill people like me

One kidney disease patient already taking semaglutide is Dawn Cerruto, 52, who has lived with the condition for 26 years.

The social worker from New Jersey underwent dialysis for three years after diagnosis before receiving a transplant.

While her kidney disease has remained relatively stable since then, she later developed diabetes, which is why she began taking semaglutide last year.

At first I experienced some stomach aches and actually lost too much weight, Dawn says. However, Im now on a smaller dose and my diabetes is stable.

Dawn Cerruto, 52, a social worker from New Jersey, has lived with the condition for 26 years

It was only recently that Dawn found out the injection  which she self-administers once a week  could also prevent her kidney disease from getting worse.

When I read that I thought to myself, I guess Im on the right drug.

My doctors told me that the new kidney I have will likely last another ten years, but hopefully taking semaglutide will help extend that time further.

However, Dawn  who is also an ambassador for the American Kidney Fund charity  says that the current worldwide shortages of semaglutide concern her.

Its such good news that it could help prevent kidney disease getting worse, but so many people are taking it because they just want to lose some weight, she explains.

There are patients like me who really need this drug, so it should only be considered a last resort for patients who are otherwise healthy.
Europe must be prepared for the 'high risk' of a flu pandemic, a World Health Organization (WHO) chief sensationally claimed today.

Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, the UN agency's acting director for pandemic preparedness, said it was a 'certainty' the continent would face the threat of influenza.

Speaking on a WHO podcast, she argued Covid would not be 'the last pandemic we will deal with in our lifetimes'.

Instead, an unknown future threat could strike in unprecedented fashion.

But the respected epidemiologist also admitted coronavirus 'did not have to be as bad as it was'.

Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, the UN agency's acting director for pandemic preparedness, said it was a 'certainty' the continent would face the threat of influenza. Speaking on a WHO podcast, she argued Covid would not be 'the last pandemic we will deal with in our lifetimes'

In 2018, the WHO identified nine priority diseases (listed) that pose the biggest risk to public health. They were deemed to be most risky due to a lack of treatments or their ability to cause a pandemic. This included disease X  a placeholder name for an unknown future threat

Sir John Bell (pictured), who served as Boris Johnson 's testing tsar during Covid, said it was 'inconceivable' the country wouldn't face a further 'big event'. Addressing MPs sitting on the Health and Social Care Committee, he argued there was a '20 or 30 per cent chance' another pandemic would occur within 20 years

She told Health in Europe: 'For me, flu is a certainty because it's so much in circulation. It's infected many different species.

'We have avian influenza and the opportunities for reassortance [genetic changes to a virus that allow it to jump between species], the opportunities for a pandemic of influenza virus are high.

'That's why we have a whole system in place to be prepared for this. The challenge is, will we see another coronavirus pandemic?

'Given that we had SARS-CoV-2 cause a pandemic, for sure, this is an opportunity. The question is, will we see an Arbovirus pandemic?'

Arboviruses, also known as arthropod-borne viruses, refer to infections spread to people by the bite of infected insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.

She added: 'Now, I'm not saying this to scare people who are listening to this, but for us, it's something that we have to be prepared for.

'So, we have to think out of the box. Really prepare for what are the known threats, but also think out of the box for something different, perhaps waterborne or whatnot.

'So for me, pandemics, unfortunately, are part of what we will deal with in our lifetimes.

'I don't believe this will be the last pandemic we will deal with in our lifetimes.'

For decades, leading scientists have warned bird flu is the most likely contender for triggering the next pandemic.

Experts say this is because of the threat of recombination, when two viruses merge to create a hybrid.

High natural levels of human flu raise the risk of someone having both at the same time, which can spawn such a situation.

Others have long speculated disease X  representing a hypothetical, currently unknown pathogen  would more generally come from zoonotic transmission, an animal virus or bacteria that jumps to humans.

Some have even warned that this could be sparked by a biological mutation, or an accident or terror attack, that catches the world by surprise and spreads fast.

The now-defunct Public Health England also warned in 2019 that the growing threat of superbugs could help a once harmless bacteria into becoming disease X.

Covid itself is originally thought to have come from an animal, most likely a bat.

However, an ever-growing number of experts suspect that experiments conducted in Wuhan may have sparked its spread among people.

Pressed later during the podcast if WHO was prepared for the next pandemic, Dr Van Kerkhove admitted that while it had 'strong systems in place', the 'world's trust in science' has taken a hit.

She added: 'There have to be commitments in place to ensure that we do better the next time.

'Covid did not have to be as bad as it was, as it is and we owe it to our children, our grandchildren to make sure that we, we keep up these systems and have that commitment in place to make sure that we do better the next time.'

It comes as Sir Jeremy Farrar, an influential member of SAGE  No10's advisory panel, told the Covid Inquiry last year that another pandemic is 'inevitable'.

Giving evidence remotely he said: 'It's clear we're living in a pandemic age, which is going to have more frequent and more complex pandemics.

'And yet it is extraordinarily difficult when governments are faced with dealing with the challenges of day to day, to also put in place those critical infrastructures, resilience and surge capacity and spare capacity, that would allow us to deal with the unexpected, but inevitable disruptions that are going to occur.'

Sir Jeremy who now works for the World Health Organization as its chief scientist, quit SAGE during the pandemic after condemning the country's laissez-faire response.

He told the probe: 'I think in the UK and around the world, despite the warnings of the last 20 years, there has been a complacency about the need to prepare for these sorts of major disruptive events which go well beyond health to the whole of society.

'And the UK, yes, was complacent in regards to planning for that.'

Meanwhile in March, Sir John Bell  who served as Boris Johnson's testing tsar during Covid  said Brits must 'get used' to the fact another pandemic is 'definitely going to happen'.

Addressing MPs sitting on the Health and Social Care Committee, he argued there was a '20 or 30 per cent chance' another pandemic would occur within 20 years.

Sir John, a regius professor of medicine at Oxford University, also admitted Covid itself could have been 'much worse'.

He said if the Omicron variant, which didn't emerge until November 2021, had been the initial strain, the 'whole system would have collapsed'.
Dr Darin Detwiler, a food safety expert at Northeastern University in Boston and former FDA and USDA food safety advisor, shared tips for storing condiments like mayonnaise

Food safety experts are warning Americans against storing condiments like mayo, pesto, and barbecue sauce in the pantry following an international outbreak of deadly bacteria.

Earlier this month, health officials in Saudi Arabia sounded the alarm after 75 people were sickened with botulism, a rare food-borne pathogen that attacks the body's nerves.

Of these cases, 11 were left hospitalized and 20 needed to be monitored in intensive care. One individual died.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) found that the toxin that causes botulism Clostridium Botulinum, was found in mayonnaise sold at the chain Hamburgini in the capital city Riyadh.

Dr Darin Detwiler, former FDA and USDA advisor and food safety expert at Northeastern University in Boston, told DailyMail.com that while botulism is rare in the US, 'the severity is high,' making proper condiment storage essential.

'Condiments, including mayonnaise, can be at risk if not handled or stored properly,' he said.

Mayonnaise is an egg-based condiment, which leaves it vulnerable to bacteria like C botulinum and salmonella if not stored properly (stock image)

Claudia Albuquerque Celada (left) and Doralice Goes (right) were both infected with botulism and paralyzed after eating contaminated food

Botulism is caused by a toxin released by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which is normally found in mostly harmless spores in soil, marine areas, and on the surface of foods like fruits, vegetables, and seafood.

These bacteria make spores, which act like protective coatings, which are usually harmless.

However, warm and wet tight spaces lacking oxygen - such as plastic jars and cans - can lead to the bacteria to release toxins that attack the central nervous system.

Condiments at risk of foodborne illness Mayonnaise

Aioli

Pesto

Barbecue sauce

Ketchup

Mustard

Salsa

Horseradish

Nut butters

Tahini

Jam

Jelly After opening these ingredients, store in a refrigerator. The exact times vary, but many last for several weeks or months when properly refrigerated Advertisement

The CDC estimates that there are just 200 cases of botulism in the US every year, and just 25 are from food, making it vanishingly rare.

It's unclear what other ingredients were in the contaminated mayonnaise and if the eggs were pasteurized, meaning they were heated to high temperatures to kill bacteria like C botulinum.

Dr Detwiler notes that when it comes to botulism, 'it's usually the eggs' that are responsible.

'Botulism thrives in anaerobic (oxygen-free) environments,' he said.

'Improperly sealed containers or poorly stored mayonnaise can create conditions favorable for the growth of Clostridium botulinum.'

Cooking eggs kills off this bacteria, but condiments like mayonnaise, aioli, and hollandaise contain raw eggs. This means they could still harbor harmful pathogens.

Dr Detwiler noted that the risk is highest for homemade mayonnaise, as it's more likely to have unpasteurized eggs.

'However, commercial mayonnaise usually contains pasteurized eggs, reducing this risk,' he said.

To counter this risk, Dr Detwiler urges that you should 'always refrigerate mayonnaise after opening,' though unopened condiments can be stored in the pantry in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Keeping condiments like these at room temperature for long periods of time allows bacteria to grow more, so storing them in the refrigerator stops that growth.

And if you're making mayonnaise from scratch, he suggests consuming it within a few days, and the FDA recommends throwing out perishable foods that have been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.

In addition to mayonnaise, Dr Detwiler suggested refrigerating pesto due to it containing basil and cheese, as well as mustard.

Even barbecue sauce can be at risk because it 'contains sugar and other perishable ingredients that benefit from refrigeration.'

Dr Detwiler also urged consumers to watch out for bulging or leaking containers on the shelves, as these 'are signs of bacterial activity, possibly including Clostridium botulinum.'

'Do not consume these products.'

And avoid returning unused portions of mayonnaise and other perishable condiments to their original containers. 'This prevents contamination of the entire container,' he said.

Dr Detwiler warned that signs of botulism include difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, double vision, drooping eyelids, blurry vision, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, and trouble moving the eyes.

Foodborne infection can also cause vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

'Botulism is potentially fatal if not treated promptly,' Dr Detwiler said. 'Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.'
Election fever is gripping the nation  and it may actually leave some people in hospital, a study suggests.

Researchers found demand for healthcare services rose by up to 19 per cent among first-time voters during major election campaigns.

There was a marked increase in chest pain, acute respiratory infections, gastro-intestinal conditions and even physical injuries.

The researchers believed the illnesses were mainly due to the stress of choosing who to vote for, and anxiety from being surrounded by political ads during the election campaign.

They said the condition should be known as 'election syndrome' or 'election stress disorder'.

Stress and anxiety caused by elections can land people in hospital, the researchers claim

Rishi Sunak risked catching a different type of fever by announcing the July 4 election in the pouring rain

Being relentlessly bombarded by political spin may lead to fatigue and weakened immunity, the researchers said, making voters more susceptible to infections like Covid.

Voters became more likely to pick up contagious diseases due to queues at polling booths, and some may have suffered injuries while attending crowded political rallies or protests.

Election workers were also found to die young because they work long hours and must deal with the stress of 'disorderly or confrontational voters'.

The 2023 study, published in the journal Health Economics, looked at the health records of 900,000 people during four election periods in Taiwan.

During the country's 2012 presidential election, there was a 30 per cent increase in anxiety attacks and related disorders dealt with by hospitals.

Healthcare spending on acute respiratory infections increased by 16.4 per cent.

And people who backed a 'losing' side were found to have elevated levels of cortisol  a hormone released by the body in response to stress - and depressed testosterone, causing low mood, anxiety and depression.

'Our results suggest that campaigns during national elections increased health care use and expenditure by 17 per cent to 19 per cent,' the researchers wrote.

'Elevated health care use occurred only during the campaign period and did not persist after the election.'

They identified two main 'pathways' through which election illnesses come about: psychological stress leading to mental health problems, and participation in campaign activities that affect physical health.

On polling station staff, they explained high levels of illness and death: 'The organization and management of elections can be challenging for election workers who often confront long working hours and disorderly or confrontational voters.'

They suggested that political parties and candidates should pay a tax from their private campaign funds to pay for the extra healthcare needed during elections.
Lots of men would prefer not to have grey hair but don't want to use dye because it's messy and far too obvious.

So, when a product comes along that promises to gradually darken grey hair with subtlety and ease - ensuring that friends and colleagues won't notice - it's no surprise demand has gone through the roof!

Introducing Alpecin Grey Attack, the groundbreaking shampoo from Germany that has just landed in the UK. Its popularity is soaring, with sales skyrocketing by an astonishing 2000% since launch. Bottles are flying off the shelves at Boots, Superdrug, and Amazon, prompting urgent restocking to keep up with the demand., the groundbreaking shampoo from Germany that has just landed in the UK. Its popularity is soaring, with sales skyrocketing by an astonishing 2000% since launch. Bottles are flying off the shelves at Boots, Superdrug, and Amazon, prompting urgent restocking to keep up with the demand.

British shoppers would be wise to act quickly, learning from their German counterparts who faced repeated sell-outs. Don't miss out - secure your bottle of Alpecin Grey Attack today before it disappears again!

Lots of men are deciding they don't want grey hair and would prefer a younger look

Alpecin Grey Attack launched in Germany in 2023 and sold 800,000 bottles in just 10 months

Launched in 2023, Alpecin Grey Attack sold an impressive 800,000 bottles in just 10 months and, for a period, even held the top spot as Germany's best-selling beauty product on Amazon.

Since arriving in the UK it has been an instant hit, rapidly climbing the ranks to claim the number one spot as the best-selling shampoo on Amazon UK.

The extraordinary demand took even Alpecin by surprise.

'Sales figures, both in supermarkets and online retailers like Amazon, significantly exceeded our expectations,' says Alexander Krumke, Vice President of Marketing at Alpecin. 'In some cases, we were unable to deliver and could barely keep up with new production. We're obviously pleased as it shows we've hit a nerve with the product. Men don't want to have grey hair.'

Why Brits are rushing to buy it

Alpecin Grey Attack is Germany's number one anti-grey men's shampoo and you only need to look at the rave reviews on Amazon to understand why the product is in such high demand in the UK too.

'I've been looking for something like this for years,' writes one shopper, while a second says they are 'thrilled' to have found 'a simple, non-messy way to keep my grey hairs at bay'.

A third provides some timely advice: 'Buy two bottles, trust me you won't go wrong - by far the best on the market'.

This graphic shows how the shampoo gradually makes your hair darker every time you use it. Once your hair reaches a shade you like, you can start using it less

German engineering for your grey hair

Grey hairs often trigger a frantic search for solutions, with many resorting to the nearest bottle of dye. However, the sudden and stark change in hair colour can draw unwanted attention. Alpecin Grey Attack has struck a chord with men by effectively addressing these common concerns.

Four tips to make Alpecin Grey Attack even more effective

1 - Start by using the product every day until you have reached your ideal colour. Let it stay in your hair for a minimum of two minutes - although five is ideal - then wash it out with water. 2 - You should see your hair gradually becoming darker after two to four weeks as oxygen in the air reacts with the active ingredient to produce pigment. Take a photo of your hair before you start using the shampoo so you can see the difference. 3  You'll find the colour transformation is more visible with longer hair, so consider delaying your next cut. 4  Finer hair tends to produce quicker results, so if your hair is thick, it's a good idea to use the shampoo over a longer period.

Its unique approach to gradual hair darkening subtly reduces the appearance of grey hairs with each wash, promoting a more youthful aesthetic without the drastic transformations of traditional dyes.

Developed by a team led by Dr. Erik Schulze zur Wiesche, head of Research & development at Alpecin, the shampoo emulates the natural process of hair colour formation with the active ingredient - 5,6-dihydoxyindole (DHI) - a precursor to the pigment that gives your hair its colour.

As Dr Schulze zur Wiesche explains: 'When you apply the shampoo, the active ingredient reacts with the oxygen in the air and thereby forms the colour pigment. Over time and with regular use, more and more dye accumulates and a permanent hair colour develops.'

Alpecin Grey Attack's ease of use and customisation options are another reason for its popularity. Users can adjust the intensity of colour simply by varying the duration of use, providing unmatched flexibility and convenience.

Its formulation excludes harsh chemicals like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, while the addition of the well-known caffeine complex delivers a daily dose of caffeine directly to your scalp and hair roots.

The way consumers have embraced the shampoo proves lots of people would rather not have grey hair. And that's totally understandable - grey doesn't suit everyone!

The way consumers have embraced Alpecin Grey Attack proves lots of people would rather not have grey hair

Hello, Summer; Goodbye, Grey!

As the sun beckons us outdoors, it's the perfect time to ensure you're looking your best. This summer, why not turn back the clock to a more youthful appearance? Whether you've just spotted your first grey hairs or have been dealing with them for a while, Alpecin Grey Attack is your go-to solution. Here's why:

1. Gradual Grey Hair Reduction: Unlike traditional dyes that bring about a sudden change, Alpecin Grey Attack works gradually and subtly. With each application, it increases the amount of natural pigment, seamlessly phasing out grey hairs. It's not only more affordable than salon visits, but also easier, quicker, and less messy than tinting or dyeing. Plus, you don't need gloves!

2. Powerful Caffeine Boost: Infused with Alpecin's well-known caffeine complex comprising caffeine, zinc, and niacin. Grey Attack delivers a daily dose of caffeine directly to your hair roots and scalp.

3. Quick and easy: With most men using shampoo daily, incorporating Alpecin Grey Attack into your routine is effortless. Just leave it in for two to five minutes for effective cleansing and enjoy the appealing scent it leaves behind.

Get yours before it's too late! Click here to buy Alpecin Grey Attack on Amazon TODAY!
Reader wanted battery so her medical pendant would work in an emergency

I recently received a letter from BT saying my landline phone was being switched to Digital Voice.

As part of this, it said I would be upgraded to full fibre broadband at no extra cost.

Digital Voice will not work in a power cut, but apparently I cannot refuse to have it.

I am elderly and disabled and find using a mobile phone quite difficult, especially in the darkness of a power cut.

I also wear a medical pendant, which has a button I would press to call 999 if something happened to me. This is linked to the phone, so when I switch to Digital Voice it won't work if there is no power.

Switchover: This reader was told she must get a digital landline, but was concerned about how her medical emergency button would work

I contacted BT via online chat and asked for a back-up battery, which would allow the phone to keep working in a power cut.

The BT staff ignored what I had asked for and instead tried to get me to upgrade to a more expensive broadband package, even though it should have been free. They said I could only get the backup battery if I agreed to this.

After an hour and 12 minutes, I finally managed to order the back-up battery, but it cost me 85.

I want to highlight this as I am concerned other vulnerable customers are being treated in the same way, and some of them will not be aware. S.B, Surrey

Helen Crane of This is Money replies: Digital landlines, which are being adopted by all phone companies, have proved highly controversial.

BT announced this week that it will push back its deadline for switching all its customers to an internet-enabled phone from December 2025 until January 2027, and other firms are expected to follow.

The decision was made due to concerns that elderly and vulnerable customers like you, who rely most on their landlines, had not been given enough time to adapt.

BT, which also runs EE, also wants to wait for the companies that manufacture medical pendants to update their technology so that it works with digital phones, and get the data sharing permissions needed to make the system function.

Your experience with BT happened just before this deadline was extended, and I think it proves that giving it some more time was the right decision.

Update needed: Most medical emergency button devices don't work with digital phones

Customers going digital have been offered free upgrades to stronger and faster internet connections, to ensure the phone works as well as possible.

So it was worrying to hear that BT staff tried to pressure you in to a more expensive package. They also charged you 85 for the backup battery.

You would be paying more money, to switch to a service you never asked for or wanted and that would be less reliable. It doesn't sound like a great deal.

You sent me some screen shots from your online chat with BT, and I agree that the agents were pushy and did not listen to what you were asking them for.

You explained your issue with the medical pendant, and in response they offered you an upgrade from your old copper wire connection to full fibre, ultra fast broadband and a 'new smart hub 2' device for 2 extra per month, which would have taken your monthly bill from 37.99 to 39.99.

It is a small amount of money, but the principle that they are selling upgrades to worried older people when they get in touch to make sure they will still be looked after in an emergency is wrong.

You were clear: 'I don't want an upgrade. I just want a back-up battery'.

But the agent persisted, and also tried to sell you a new calls package for 12 per month.

You asked to be transferred to a manager, who said that you could only get a back-up battery if you took the full fibre upgrade.

They said: 'We do not have the option to place order [sic] for backup unit on normal fibre accounts, backup unit can only be sent if you upgrade to full fibre.'

When you explained that was not what your letter from BT had said, they finally relented and said they could order it as 'an exception' - though you would still have to pay 85.

The fact they made that exception shows the requirement for full fibre is not a technical necessity for the unit to work - but rather that BT did not want to send them out for those on less expensive packages.

Given your reason for needing one - which could be a matter of life and death - I don't think that is at all acceptable.

I contacted BT to ask why this happened, and what its policy really is on sending out the backup units.

Delay: BT now has until January 2027 to switch all of its customers to digital landlines

It said that, following the change in deadline, vulnerable customers and those with additional needs would now not be transferred to Digital Voice until spring 2025 at the earliest.

This, it said, would allow it to make the necessary data sharing agreements with local authorities and other companies which provide medical pendants, so that they would still work in their time of need.

I hope that gives BT a chance to iron these issues out and make sure people are able to get the equipment that they need to stay safe - without being flogged unnecessary upgrades on the way.

However, campaign group Silver Voices told MailOnline this 13-month extension is nothing more than a 'token concession'.

In line with the extension, BT has now postponed your switchover to Digital Voice.

It is also reviewing your chat conversations and says it will take on board any learnings. It is also refunding you in BT credit for the 85 you spent on the backup battery.

Although you will have to make the transition to digital eventually, by the time you do the technology used in your medical pendant will hopefully have caught up.

A BT spokesman said: 'We're very sorry that [S.B's] experience has fallen below the high standard we strive to always provide our customers.

'We have contacted her to discuss her complaint and noted on her account that she has a healthcare pendant.

'[The customer's] switch to Digital Voice has been postponed because of this, and we have credited her with the cost of the battery back-up unit. We've now resolved her complaint and she is happy for it to be closed'.
Departure: Stephen Bird has stepped down as Abrdn's chief executive

Abrdn's boss has quit after four challenging years at the helm, having overseen a controversial rebrand, the 'simplification' of the asset manager and disappointing results.

Stephen Bird has stepped down as the investment group's chief executive, but will remain at the company until the end of June to enable a smooth handover.

Jason Windsor, Abrdn's chief financial officer, will become CEO on an interim basis while the asset manager searches for a full-time successor.

Bird took over the Edinburgh-based group at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in July 2020 following a 21-year spell at banking giant Citigroup, including as head of its global consumer banking business.

He succeeded Keith Skeoch, who helped form the company in 2017 via the 11billion mega-merger of Standard Life and Aberdeen Asset Management.

The Scottish banker sought to revive the firm's fortunes by slashing costs - including hundreds of job losses - and expanding its wealth management and retail investment operations.

In May 2022, Abrdn spent 1.5billion to buy Interactive Investor, Britain's second-largest online trading platform for private investors.

However, Abrdn experienced a significant outflow of funds as it faced competition from competitors to lower fees, and investors poured their money into cash and less risky investments amid a challenging economic backdrop.

Between 2021 and 2023, the company's assets under management shrank by about 47billion to 494.9billion, and it fell out of the FTSE 100 Index twice.

The business also became the subject of some derision after changing its name from Standard Life Aberdeen to Abrdn.

A poll by comparison website Investing Reviews in September 2021 described the rebranding decision as an 'act of corporate insanity'.

Last month, Abrdn's investment chief accused the media of 'corporate bullying' as a result of the group dropping the vowels from its new name.

Since switching to a different name, Abrdn shares have plummeted by about 44 per cent as it continued to suffer an investor exodus and posted two successive annual losses, including a 612million pre-tax loss in 2022.

Abrdn shares were 0.35 per cent higher at 156.55p on late Friday afternoon.

Sir Douglas Flint, Abrdn's chairman, said Bird 'spearheaded a fundamental reshaping of the company, leading from the front to create a company that can be competitive in a fast-evolving sector'.

He added: 'Adapting the inherited business model to be capable of generating sustainable and profitable growth required strategic vision, intense hard work and the courage to make tough but necessary decisions.'

Bird told investors: 'I am immensely proud of the work we have done together to simplify abrdn and position the company for sustainable growth.

'Together with a refreshed leadership team and an incredibly committed group of colleagues at all levels, we have refocused our global Investments business as a specialist asset manager.'
Amsterdam-based digital bank Bunq is limbering up for a UK relaunch.

The neobank, founded in 2012, previously had a presence in the UK but was ousted by Brexit regulation in 2020 along with a host of other European digital banks, including Berlin-based N26.

Now Bunq is plotting a comeback, spurred on by the UK being home to a community of 2.8million 'digital nomads' which it is looking to tap into.

Helen Kirrane, This is Money's saving and banking reporter, speaks to Bunq's chief executive Ali Niknam about his plans to re-enter the UK market and how it will compete against digital banking giants Monzo, Starling and Revolut to make up for lost time.

Bunq in Britain: The Dutch bank is looking to return after exiting thanks to Brexit

'The banking scene in the Netherlands has always felt a little bit like Broadway. If you can make it here you can make it anywhere' Bunq chief executive Ali Niknam tells This is Money.

While Amsterdam's DeLaMar theatre might not be Broadway, in attendance for its latest update - Bunq25 - are around 450 customers, investors and stakeholders waiting to hear about its new features, so that's certainly what Bunq is going for.

From the stage, Niknam announces the neobank has reached 12.5million signups across Europe and deposits of 8billion.

Now, he has plans to grow these numbers by relaunching in the UK.

The bank reached its first full year of profitability in December, posting pre-tax profits of 53.1million.

It plans to deploy some of this for launch in the UK. But its ambitions are being hampered somewhat by red tape, Niknam says.

At the end of last year it submitted an application for an e-money institution licence to allow its UK launch.

It can take between a year and 18 months to be granted e-money status, depending on the application.

Niknam hopes for a UK relaunch 'sooner rather than later' but adds that the regulatory processes for getting there are 'long and difficult to predict.'

Ali Niknam: Regulatory overheads have slowed the bank down in its ambition to launch in the UK again

Fellow European neobank Revolut also has EMI status.

It has been trying for some years to obtain a full banking licence and has been unable to attain one yet.

One of the key differences between an e-money institution and a banking licence is that the former enables firms to offer loans.

Firms with a banking licence can lend money while those with an e-money licences cannot.

But Niknam does not believe having an e-money licence rather than a banking licence will hold Bunq back in the UK.

He says: 'For the service that we want to offer we believe that an e-money licence will serve us and our customers.

'Because these licences in the UK allow you to connect to the interbanking system, we believe we can serve our UK users really well with an e-money licence.'

'It's not the technical challenge that is holding us back, it's all the regulatory overheads.

'We are really a tech company at heart so implementing the tech stsyems is right up our alley.

'But we also need to include all the extra compliance and risk and all of the extra reporting that we need to do. And that's really the reason why we have been delayed.'

Ambitious: Bunq is keen to come back to Britain, but boss Ali Niknam says 'regulatory overheads' have delayed launch in Britain

In addition to regulatory challenges, Bunq also faces an extremely competitive market in the UK, dominated by players like Starling and Monzo.

The main challenge will be whether Bunq will be able to command a wedge of their customers.

'Monzo and Starling apps don't have a presence in Europe, Revolut does have a presence In Europe so possibly some of the features could be there already', Niknam says.

Bunq's target market is 'digital nomads' - Britons who live or work in the EU or people from the EU working or living in the UK - having one interface where they can make payments is paramount, says Niknam.

This is a potential market of 2.8million for Bunq. Niknam says there is still a pool of digital nomads post Brexit: 'I think if anything after Covid, things have become more spread out,' he says.

'The first milestone is to get that licence so we can launch.

'And I'm pretty sure once we can launch we'll be able to compete.'

Recently, Bunq launched Finn, its own generative AI tool similar to Chat GPT which can answer questions about customers' financial habits such as 'did I pay my taxes last month (a question Niknam himself posed).

Finn is not intended to replace customer service for troubleshooting questions, but it will effectively replace the search function in the app.

Niknam said: 'Finn is independently solving up to 40 per cent of user support questions, and assisting with 75 per cent every day helping users tackle any issues they might have while using Bunq.'

One thing that attracts many customers to Starling is its customer service and the fact that they can speak to someone for help.

In terms of Bunq's customer service, Bunq uses chatbots but has a hotline for urgent issues like blocking a card.

Other new features include worldwide travel insurance and a travel money assistant. Customers can also receive spending insights for their external bank accounts by adding them to Bunq.

To those who say the UK is already a crowded market, Niknam says: 'In all European countries, including the UK, about 99 per cent of the total market is still with the old legacy banks. So it's not crowded at all.

'We really love healthy competition. We would much rather have strong competitors in a competitive market that is fluid than being the sole new player.'

'Now that we have traction and are financially healthy and have a proven business model, patiently we will add regions one by one,' Niknam says.
Members of Philadelphia's new slavery reparations commission talked up their mission at a launch this week, vowing to 'get to work' on improving schools and housing for black residents.

But a DailyMail.com investigation has exposed big flaws in the new, nine-member panel.

The group's co-chair, Rashaun Williams, is already using his new role to promote his Afro-House club nights, where he performs as DJ Reezey.

And the panel's legal chief, Jackie Newsome, has strong feelings against white people, her tweets suggest.

She slams their 'white fragility' and likens them to 'middle schoolers.' In other posts, she controversially calls to 'defund the police.'

Philadelphia's reparations panel got off to a bad start at City Hall this week, as controversial social media posts by its new members were unearthed

The panel's co-chair, Rashaun Williams, has used his new role to promote his Afro-House club nights, when he performs as DJ Reezey

In a video post, Williams talks up the task force and urges supporters to come 'celebrate' at his club night

The involvement of Williams and Newsome casts doubt on the panel's credibility, and raises questions about whether it can help the city's 1.6 million people navigate their complicated history.

The task force and the city council have not commented on the posts.

The revelations are just the latest example of problems in implementing reparations schemes, which gained traction after the police killing of George Floyd in 2020 but are now floundering.

Poll Do you support a federal reparation policy directed at the descendants of slaves? Yes No Not sure Do you support a federal reparation policy directed at the descendants of slaves? Yes 559 votes

No 17653 votes

Not sure 172 votes Now share your opinion





Campaigners say it's time to repair the harms against black people from slavery and Jim Crow  but critics say the planned payouts are unfair and would only worsen race relations.

The Philadelphia Reparations Task Force was formally launched at City Hall on Tuesday.

It is tasked with reporting on 'how reparations can atone for the legacy of slavery, Jim Crow, and institutional racism,' according to a statement from the city.

New York, San Francisco, and other US cities have already launched similar schemes.

But Philadelphia's is seen as particularly important, as four-in-ten residents are black  slightly outnumbering whites.

African Americans are struggling in the City of Brotherly Love, official figures show.

They are much more likely to live in poverty than others, and own just 6 percent of businesses.

Reparations cover everything from erecting statues to business loans, but discussions often center on whether taxpayers should compensate blacks with eye-popping cash payouts.

The panel can only make recommendations. Any financial payouts would have to be approved by council members and the mayor through a budget process.

Williams was instrumental in setting up the task force and was named as a co-chair last year.

Rashaun Williams, seen here wearing a hoodie decorated with images of Malcolm X and other racial justice campaigners

Williams has controversially used the committee to promote his Afro-House club nights, called 'Movement and Melanin'

DailyMail.com can reveal that within weeks, he was using the office to promote his dance parties.

One of his social media posts features the logos of the task force, Philadelphia City Council and Councilmember Jamie Gauthier  a leading local politician who backed the reparations project.

The post includes a video of Williams talking up the task force, before he plugs one of his dance parties, a December 2 event called 'Movement and Melanin.'

'I got events,' Williams says.

'We gotta celebrate blackness. We gotta celebrate ourselves in this world.'

He urges viewers to join his email list to 'stay tuned' for his upcoming $15 late-night parties.

On the face of it, this violates Philadelphia's ethics manual for boards and commissions, which sets rules for conflicts of interest.

Members 'cannot take any official action that would affect your personal financial interest,' the document says.

Newsome, who will coordinate the task force's legal policy for reparations, is more controversial yet.

In social media posts, she speaks disdainfully of white Americans.

'Watching white folks on social media has me feeling like a parent of a middle schooler,' she wrote in one such post.

They should 'get off the internet and stay out of Black folks business,' she added.

In another, she refers to 'white fragility,' a term used to describe whites reacting defensively when their prejudices are called into question.

It's the title of a 2018 book by Robin DiAngelo, a key text in the academic approach known as Critical Race Theory.

In a post shortly after the police killing of Floyd, a handcuffed black man, in May 2020, Newsome joined the chorus of calls to 'defund the police.'

The post was directed to Gauthier and other city politicians. It urged them to pull funding for the Philadelphia Police Department.

The panel's legal chief, Jackie Newsome, has spoken disparagingly about white people, comparing them to 'middle schoolers'

For some, Newsome's posts about white people being 'middle schoolers' should preclude her from public office

Reparations Task Force Co-Chairs Breanna Moore (right), and Rashaun Williams, launch the effort at City Hall in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Councilmember Jamie Gauthier was a driving force behind the reparations project

It was a popular slogan during the Black Lives Matter protests after Floyd's death, but the policy fell out of favor as police morale fell, and crime rates ticked up.

The city's code of conduct advises commission members against making political posts on social media.

Newsome's controversial posts were made before she joined the body.

Still, her reference to white people as 'middle schoolers' casts doubt on whether she's a good fit for public office.

Williams, the city council, the task force and the mayor's office did not answer our requests for comment.

From the 15th to the 19th century, at least 12.5 million Africans were kidnapped, forcibly transported by European ships and merchants and sold into slavery.

Those who survived the brutal voyage ended up toiling on plantations in the Americas, including in Brazil, the Caribbean, and the United States, while others profited from their labor.

Campaigners say it's time for America to repay its black residents for the injustices of the historic Transatlantic slave trade, Jim Crow segregation and inequalities that persist to this day.

The sums are eye-watering  black lawmakers in Washington seek at least $14 trillion for a federal scheme to 'eliminate the racial wealth gap' between black and white Americans.

Critics say payouts to selected black people will inevitably stoke divisions between winners and losers, and raise questions about why American Indians and others don't get their own handouts.

Reparations are popular among the black people who stand to benefit from them, but unpopular among the whites, Asians, and others who would foot the tax bill without themselves benefiting.

Fully 74 percent of blacks support the US government reparations for slavery and its legacy, compared with just 26 percent of whites, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey from last year.

Reparations are much more popular among Democrat voters than with Republicans.
The health ministry on Friday pressed trainee doctors who left their worksites to go back to hospitals, saying their return is the "starting point" to resolve the protracted standoff over the government's medical reform.

Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo made the remarks as a council of universities is expected to approve admission plans to boost the number of medical students, a thorny issue that prompted the mass walkout by trainee doctors, later in the day.

"We ask junior doctors to promptly return to their worksites. That is the starting point in resolving the issue," Park told reporters, noting that their prolonged walkout is leading to anxiety among patients and their families.

About 12,000 trainee doctors have remained off the job since Feb. 20 in protest of the plan to raise the medical school admission quota.

"The government will spare no effort to provide the necessary support to ensure that junior doctors receive fair treatment as trainees," Park added, warning that the longer the delay in their return, the more penalties they may face.

Park also asked doctors to participate in a presidential committee on medical reform launched last month to resolve the issue, although doctors have been boycotting the platform, calling for a complete abandonment of the plan.

Amid the prolonged deadlock, the government's reform plan gained traction after a Seoul appellate court last week rejected an injunction filed by the medical community to block the hike, paving the way for authorities to proceed with the reform.

The Korean Council for University Education plans to approve the revised admission plan for next year's freshmen later in the day, which will effectively implement the first increase in 27 years. (Yonhap)
Strange luminous 'rods' have been caught on camera in the skies over several South American countries in the past month, DailyMail.com can reveal.

The long white and blue objects appeared to slowly float across the sky in videos filmed by residents of Argentina, Chile and Brazil.

One stunning example was filmed on April 29 by UFO researcher and Petrobras engineer Rony Vernet on cameras he set up to monitor the southeastern night sky near Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

An apparent cylindrical object glides into the frame at 5.01am, heading northeast and gradually moving out of sight over about 80 seconds.

Videos filmed by residents in Argentina, Chile and Brazil show UFOs. This particular video was taken in Chile on May 6

On May 6 a witness in Argentina filming with their phone captured a similar-looking white object moving slowly through the sky above their house.

The same day, at 7.14pm in Vina del Mar, Chile, a third witness videoed another incident, though this time the cylinder appeared blue.

Another video obtained by Vernet came from a Chilean witness in Lujan de Cuyo the same evening.

On May 8, residents of a Brazilian town near the border with Uruguay filmed one that appeared to change color from white to blue and yellow.

The same day as the Chile sighting, a witness in Argentina filming with their phone captured a similar-looking white object moving slowly through the sky above their house

Date:04/29/2024

Time: 05:01

Local coordinates: -22.24839979157679, -43.992541251095595

Camera direction: SE

Object movement direction: NE  Rony Vernet  (@RonyVernet) May 20, 2024

One stunning video was filmed in Brazil. Often a string of lights about as bright as stars, moving slowly across the sky, will be mistaken for a true UFO when it is in fact Starlink

A stunning photograph taken by a Fedex pilot of a meteor burning up in the atmosphere, with a white blob below it resembling the objects captured by Vernet and the other witnesses he gathered

A close up of the white blob resembling the objects captured by Vernet and other witnesses

Vernet shared videos he collected from four witnesses in Brazil on May 9, showing similar objects.

But experts are baffled as to whether the objects are indeed UFOs or the satellite constellation Starlink.

Often a string of lights about as bright as stars, moving slowly across the sky, will be mistaken for a true UFO when it is in fact Starlink, the network of satellites launched by Elon Musk's company SpaceX.

But usually those lights will appear as distinct dots in a line, rather than a solid cylinder, and will not appear to change color.

Chris Spitzer, an expert in UFO analysis, told DailyMail.com that although Starlink generally appears as a trail of distinct dots in the sky once it is fully deployed, during its ascent it can appear as a solid line due to the satellites being grouped close together.

'Starlink sats may look like oblong objects right after deployment when they reach Earth orbit because they are stacked together,' he said.

Spitzer shared a likely example: a stunning photograph taken by a Fedex pilot of a meteor burning up in the atmosphere, with a white blob below it resembling the objects captured by Vernet and the other witnesses he gathered.

The white, bright nature of the objects could be just reflected sunlight, Spitzer explained.

'Starlink satellites also generate UFO sightings right after they are deployed, when they reflect sunlight. They are released in one batch with two clamps parallel to each other where they are stacked together. This could explain some recent sightings,' he said.

On May 6, the same day as the Argentina and Chile sightings, a Starlink satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 6.14pm local time.

1. I am pretty sure Starlink sats ALSO generate UFO sightings right after they are deployed when they reflect sunlight. They are released in one batch with two clamps parallel to each other where they are stacked together. This could explain some recent sightings/videos of pic.twitter.com/MqLjKJ3b8l  Chris SPITZER (@ChrisSPITZER7) November 12, 2022

On May 6, the same day as the Argentina and Chile sightings, a Starlink satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 6.14pm local time

On May 8 at 6.42pm another launched from the John F Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island, Florida, the same day as the sighting on the Uruguay border.

There was no Starlink launch on April 29 when Vernet captured his video, but there was a launch from Cape Canaveral at 9.50pm the previous evening.

'One video is from one of my cameras at a hot spot here in Rio,' Vernet told DailyMail.com. 'In May these big luminous rods started to appear in Argentina, Uruguay and South of Brazil. I have many videos people sent me.

'The only explanation for me would be Starlink, but no satellite train was visible at the time of the sighting.'

Vernet, who works as an electronics and computer engineer at Brazilian oil firm Petrobras, is a prominent UFO researcher in Brazil and the founder of UAPBrazil.com.
From the other side of the party, a friend of my daughter's waves at me. I'm ecstatic to see her. I try to wave back but I can't move my arm.

I stare at it incredulously. 'Send the message,' my brain tells me. 'Pick up your hand and use the levers in your elbow to move it up in the air. Turn your wrist to the right. Spread your fingers. Move your hand from left to right.'

I concentrate hard and, finally, I can wave back  jerkily and a little mechanically but recognisably a wave. The friend has, of course, long since moved on.

I'm waving blankly at a group of quizzical young people in my own kitchen while peering out from within a body that no longer seems to belong to me. The euphoria that had buzzed through my entire body only moments before ebbs and turns into something else entirely. Fear.

This wasn't how I had expected my experiment with the illegal 'rave drug' to go. Yes, this is me, a 55-year-old mother of three, confessing that at a party at our house hosted by my 19-year-old daughter last month, I took the illegal Class B rave drug ketamine, known on the streets and in clubs as 'Special K' or 'Vitamin K'.

Figures out this week show the illegal use of ketamine  known as a horse tranquilliser but also used as a medical sedative for humans  is at a record high among young people

Why on earth did I do it? I'm not an ageing raver, nor a criminal. I'm much more comfortable watching University Challenge on the sofa with my husband, or gossiping with my similarly-menopausal friends about the benefits of Pilates.

The answer lies in my long mission to be a good mother. I am trying ketamine for the sake of my kids.

Figures out this week show the illegal use of ketamine  known as a horse tranquilliser but also used as a medical sedative for humans  is at a record high among young people.

The number of 16-to-24-year-olds taking it has quadrupled in a decade, partly because it's cheap (at 20 per gram) and partly because, wrongly, it's seen as a 'safe, fun' mood-enhancer without the headline-grabbing calamities of the more expensive MDMA.

Elon Musk says he uses it on prescription to treat symptoms of depression.

Given its obvious popularity, I wanted to know what I was dealing with when it came to warning my children, aged 16, 17 and 19, about it.

My policy around drugs has always been to come at it from a point of knowledge. I see little point in lectures of disapproval on subjects I know nothing about. I have always thought the best way to learn about something, and thus to offer a properly credible perspective, is to try the thing for myself.

You can call it naive  I think of it as the opposite.

I want them to have all the information they need, not from TikTok, not just from 'boring' catastrophising in school anti-drug lectures and not solely from their peers, but directly from me.

I know some will roll their eyes at the dinner table conversations we have had, but I firmly believe it's an effective way of keeping my children safe. Over the years, we've covered most illegal substances. To be honest, I knew quite a bit already from my own youth.

Spliff, I told them, ignoring their smirks at my use of such an uncool moniker for cannabis, just makes you sleepy and unable to get out of bed and get on with your life. Cocaine is expensive, turns you into a shouty bore and is often cut with nostril-strafing horrors like laundry detergent.

Molly? Oh, you mean MDMA? In our day, we called it ecstasy. Well, if you want to lose your individuality and all discernment and get yourself arrested for making faces at a policeman, be my guest, but it's not worth it: the best night I ever had at the Ministry of Sound was when I danced until dawn and drank only water.

The number of 16-to-24-year-olds taking ketamine has quadrupled in a decade, partly because it's cheap and partly because, wrongly, it's seen as a 'safe, fun' mood-enhancer

This attitude worked well for a while but as they got older  and, more importantly, as I got older  I could tell I was losing them. My 'cool mum' persona lost its ability to convince as soon as I hit 50, and now they saw straight through it.

Even my husband, hitherto loyal to what he called my 'I'm mad, me' anti-drugs approach, started to snigger when I tackled the discovery of a metal cylinder of NOS (nitrous oxide, or laughing gas) in my eldest son's backpack with a damning story of the inefficacy of the gas-and-air I had inhaled in labour.

'I'm not sure he's really with you on that one,' he mocked. 'He's at the Reading festival, and you're trying to dissuade him from laughing gas by saying it wasn't much good for your contractions? Give it a rest, love.'

So I distilled everything into one simple mantra, 'never take a pill', because I truly believed that therein lay the true danger of drugs. 'You just never know with pills,' I lectured the kids. 'You don't know what's in them, you don't know the dosage, you don't know what they've been diluted with. Just. Avoid.'

And then there was ketamine. My generation didn't encounter it at parties in the 1990s, but a conversation with my children and their cousins convinced me how widespread it was for theirs.

'Everyone' does it in the cousins' peer groups, I was told  it's at every party, every club night, where it's used often as a cheaper alternative to expensive alcohol.

And yet ketamine can also be very dangerous. Its use was cited as a factor in the demise of Friends' Chandler Bing actor Matthew Perry.

Ketamine has been implicated, too, in the tragic deaths of 41 students at UK universities since 1991, with seven in 2021 alone. With my eldest already at university and the second about to go, I feel an urgent need to understand why young people are taking it and to tell them about the risks.

Which is how I find myself at my daughter's party, looking nervously at a young man I don't know, but who I have overheard laughing about using ketamine at a friend's birthday the week before.

'Do you have some now?' I ask, smiling as if this is something mothers in their mid-50s ask every day. 'I'd love to try it.' The poor boy looks terrified. 'No, seriously,' I assure him. 'This is what I do. I try everything once.'

He's a well-brought-up lad, whoever he is, so he finds himself unable to refuse his hostess. We go into my husband's empty office, just off the party room. He takes out a little plastic 'baggie' from his pocket and tips out a pinch of white crystals on to the space between my thumb and forefinger.

'Um, hold your other nostril closed and sniff that,' he says awkwardly.

'Just one bump, OK?' And just like that, it's done, and we go back to the party.

I'm not afraid, exactly. I know what I am doing is illegal, but I also think it's not innately dangerous, in the same way that driving at 95mph on an empty motorway at dawn is illegal but not innately dangerous  unless you overdo it, or do something wrong.

Ketamine has been implicated in the tragic deaths of 41 students at UK universities since 1991, with seven in 2021 alone

In the heat of the moment, this is how I rationalise it. All I have to do is avoid the 'k-hole'  the ketamine equivalent of a very bad trip, when people take too much and have wild hallucinations, often finding themselves immobilised.

My nephew had described seeing his grandmother being given ketamine by paramedics to anaesthetise her pain and calm her when she fell down the stairs at his house.

'I knew she'd gone down a k-hole when she started wittering on about the lovely blue light that was coming out of the paramedic's eyes,' he said afterwards. So even that sounded harmless. Yet even with the tiny dose I tried, my experience is very far from what I had been told by my nephews would be a 'buzzy high'.

I do not have a pleasant out of body moment, but instead am rooted inside this restrictive armour of limbs. The lights of the party, which had very briefly seemed to glow with lambent warmth and possibility, rapidly dim and cool.

I try to move away from the throng but never have I been so acutely aware of having to laboriously plan my movements.

My heart is beating fast, but the rest of my body is agonisingly slow. The apparent split between the two makes me feel anxious and sweaty.

Almost the worst of it is that my mind remains horribly clear. I note my symptoms dispassionately and tell myself to focus on getting away from the party and riding this out until I regain control over my treacherous cage of a body. But it's too late. Because a young woman has noticed my unnatural stillness and is standing in front of me, her hand on my arm.

'Are you OK?' There is a note of concern in her voice.

'She's fine,' says the provider of the ketamine, who is still standing next to me. 'Yeah, I gave her her first bump of ket and I think now she's feeling it a little.' The young woman's eyes widen. 'Ket? Ketamine? Mum? What the hell?'

Yes, she's my daughter. My humiliation is complete. None of it goes the way I planned. I stand there, rooted to the spot, staring guiltily at my eldest child. Not in a k-hole, not hallucinating or actually paralysed, nothing so dramatic, just conscious that I am not the master of my own body.

And inwardly I'm furious with myself. I was meant to get through this quickly, then present my findings to my children as another example of their level-headed mum doing her research, and now here I am, caught in the act like a teenager, by my teenager.

Even worse, I can feel the ketamine making me grin inanely, giggle stupidly. I don't think I have ever felt so foolish.

'Oh, Mum,' says my daughter heavily. 'You're so embarrassing.'

We get through it, of course  the effects of a single small 'bump' last no longer than half an hour  though I have sacrificed all parental dignity for an unknowable length of time because, naturally, my daughter can't wait to rat me out to her siblings. My husband is aghast. My authority within the family is at an all-time low.

A month later, I think that my ketamine experiment hasn't totally backfired because my daughter sees for herself how demeaning it is to be 'caught'.

I'm quick to share my observations about the lack of pros and the major cons. I am also careful not to let on about the lack of toxic after-effects, partly because I still feel poisoned by shame.

But when I tell an A&E doctor friend about my humiliation, I realise what a risk I was taking.

'The trouble with ketamine is that the more often you use it, the more you need to get the same high, but then it's easy to get the new dosage wrong. After that initial pinch or 'bump', casual users don't know how bad more can be  and getting just a little amount wrong can tip you into an unresponsive state, which is what we see more and more of at work,' she says gravely.

'Repeated use  but sometimes just from the first use, if you're unlucky  can lead to ket bladder, where ketamine interferes with the lining of the bladder, and makes users permanently needing to go to the toilet every 30 minutes or so.

'There's also a small risk of 'emergence phenomenon' which kicks in as the ketamine is wearing off, making the person very paranoid and psychotic, and sometimes frighteningly aggressive. It's rare but scary for us in A&E.'

Our young people are tempted into ketamine use by its allegedly gentle effect and low cost, but find themselves sucked into increasing their usage by the need to chase the same high. Now even their peers are attacking its popularity, with London DJs accusing it of killing the clubbing scene, the dance floors full of 'zombie ketters' shuffling around.

Too many teenagers view ketamine as temptingly fun and just a little bit rebellious. The reality, as I can testify, is uncomfortable and weird. I think I need to re-appraise my policy around drugs  this is one experiment I wish I'd never done.

Names have been changed.
A portrait of Prince Harry and Meghan has been accepted into the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery in London, whose patron is the Princess of Wales.

The news was revealed by Misan Harriman, who has become the Duke and Duchess of Sussexes go-to photographer.

He posted several images on social media showing him signing the picture with the message: 'I am humbled and proud to announce that my portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is now part of the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery.

'Dare to dream folks!' The image was one of a series he took in September 2022 when the couple attended the opening of the One Young World summit in Manchester.

It shows them holding hands and dramatically looking into the distance - and is also notable for its lighting and soft focus.

The image of Harry and Meghan was one of a series taken by Misan Harriman in September 2022 when the couple attended the opening of the One Young World summit in Manchester

Meghan is, in colour shots taken at the same event, wearing a bright red blouse and trousers from eco-friendly brand AnotherTomorrow with Aquazzura heels, and gold hoops, while Prince Harry wears a dark blue suit.

The National Portrait Gallery holds one of the world's greatest collection of portraits, spanning the last six centuries.

The Princess of Wales - then Duchess of Cambridge - became its patron in January 2012, one of the first five patronages she took on following her marriage to Prince William.

Her first solo public engagement was the opening of the Lucian Freud Portraits exhibition at the gallery's London home.

She later collaborated with the NPG for her lockdown photography project, Hold Still.

The Princess of Wales is pictured reopening the the National Portrait Gallery in June 2023 following a three-year refurbishment programme

As Patron Kate would have no say over which portraits are added to the gallery's collection.

Mr Harriman is a globally celebrated celebrity and social photographer who became the first black man to shoot a cover of British Vogue in the magazine's 104-year history.

He has also become one of Harry band Meghan's most vocal supporters and is frequently invited to privately cover their work.

He was the only photographer invited by the couple to cover their recent quasi-royal trip to Nigeria, his country of birth.

And Mr Harriman also memorably took pictures remotely from the UK of Harry and pregnant Meghan in the US used to announce that the couple were expecting their second baby, Princess Lilibet.

A spokesperson from the National Portrait Gallery said: 'There are currently no immediate plans to display the work and, as it has just been delivered, it will need to go through our cataloguing process before it is available on our website.'
Republican Gov. Chris Sununu revealed that he thinks Donald Trump should pick Nikki Haley as his running mate, and if offered the vice president spot himself he'd turn it down.

Sununu sat down exclusively with DailyMail.com at the Reagan Institute Summit on Education in Washington, D.C. about Trump's big decision ahead: selecting his running mate.

He thinks 'polarizing' Trump needs a strong bipartisan relationship builder partner so that he can accomplish a 'record of results' for Americans.

'I think she'd be great,' he said about Haley joining Trump's ticket in the No. 2 spot.

The New Hampshire governor, who is known as a bipartisan builder himself, spent a ton of time with Haley parading across the early voting state and ended up endorsing her over Trump.

Sununu spent a ton of time with Haley parading across the early voting state and ended up endorsing her over Trump

Haley received 43% to Trump's 54% in the 'Live Free or Die' state, but it wasn't enough for her campaign to clip the former president.

But when pressed about whether he would consider joining the Trump administration should he win, Sununu flatly responded 'no.'

'It's not a Trump thing,' he replied when asked by DailyMail.com if he would accept an invitation by Trump to be his VP.

'It's I just don't have an interest in coming to D.C. I mean, I'd be honored if anyone ever considered me for something like that. That'd be an incredible honor,' he went on.

But he said his family is 'not looking to come to D.C., to be frank about it. But I think it would serve the entire country well whoever the next vice president is to bring, first and foremost that quality [of bipartisanship].'

'I mean, given where Trump is, he's very polarizing, to have a partner in the White House.'

Sununu had jabbed Trump many times on the campaign trail, calling out his 'advanced age' and saying the president 'contributed' to the January 6 Capitol riot.

Trump has called Sununu a 'loser' who makes 'really bad TV,' essentially ruling him out to make the VP short list.

The ex-president hinted he may add Haley to a future administration, acknowledging Thursday in a local interview that they had a 'nasty campaign,' but she's 'a very capable person and Im sure shes going to be on our team in some form, absolutely.

'I think she'd be great,' Sununu said about Haley joining Trump's ticket in the No. 2 spot

Sununu said Mike Pence was a good VP choice by Trump in 2016 because he's very conservative, but he always had a 'great reputation' of working across the aisle and 'getting stuff done' in Congress and as governor.

Despite their tumultuous history, Sununu said last month that he would be supporting Trump by voting for him in November - because the alternative of Biden in the White House is too much of a risk.

His remarks came the day after former Gov. Nikki Haley revealed that she will be voting for Donald Trump in the 2024 election.

Her public backing comes despite Trump calling her a 'bird brain' and mocking her outfit choices on the primary campaign trail.

She explained that because President Joe Biden is a 'catastrophe,' throwing support behind Trump is the only choice.

Gov. Nikki Haley revealed that she will be voting for Donald Trump in the 2024 election

'Having said that I stand by what I said in my suspension speech...Trump would be smart to reach out to the millions of people who voted for me and continue to support me, and not assume that they're just going to be with him,' she said in a speech at the Hudson Institute on Wednesday.

'And I genuinely hope he does,' she added.
A mother has said black mould that has taken over her two-bed flat gas left her 'scared' for her five-year-old son's life - after she found him 'lifeless, limp and floppy' due to the dire conditions.

Sinead Pope, 24, says black mould filled her rental home shortly after she moved into the two-bed flat in November 2020.

The damp conditions have caused the mother, from Brighton, East Sussex, chest pains, and she claims her hair is falling out due to stress.

Her son Aziyah, five, was diagnosed with fluid on the lungs and 'nearly died' due to the damp, she says.

She says she worries about whether her son will wake up after she found him 'lifeless and floppy' due to health complications caused by the mouldy conditions, she says.

Mother Sinead Pope (pictured with son Aziyah), 24, has said black mould that has taken over her two-bed flat gas left her 'scared' for her five-year-old son's life - after she found him 'lifeless, limp and floppy' due to the dire conditions

Ms Pope says black mould filled her rental home shortly after she moved into the two-bed flat in November 2020

The black mould covered toilet in Ms Pope's home in from Brighton, East Sussex

Mould covering Ms Pope's bed which has taken over her rented flat in Brighton

A report by a chartered building surveyor found there were threats to physical and mental health from damp and mould growth.

And she says despite repeatedly complaining to the letting agents, having extractor fans installed and engaging a solicitor, her home is still covered in mould.

Ms Pope said: 'It's been scary - my son nearly died two years ago from the damp and mould.

'He went lifeless, limp and floppy - he was coughing from the mould and every time he coughed a lot he would vomit.

'He stopped eating because he was constantly being sick and the doctor said he had too much fluid on his lungs caused by the damp.

'He had a temperature for 11 days, he was vomiting non-stop and wheezing in the night, he couldn't breathe properly.

'In the end he went pale, floppy, and lifeless - I took him to A&E straight away who said his blood sugar was dangerously low from not eating.'

Ms Pope says black mould began appearing around her front door before spreading through the rest of the flat after she moved into the property in November 2020.

She claims she informed the letting agency in December - as soon as she noticed the mould on the front door.

However, the letting agents told her the issue was down to her lifestyle - saying she didn't open the windows enough, kept furniture too close to the walls and was drying clothes on the radiator, she claims.

But Ms Pope says she took all the advice the agency gave her and regularly cleans the mould out of the flat.

Sinead Pope with son Aziyah, five, who 'nearly died' due to the mould infested flat

Mould covering the walls at Ms Pope's flat which she rents and lives in with her son

A report by a chartered building surveyor found there were threats to physical and mental health from damp and mould growth

Mould covered clothes at Ms Pope's Brighton flat

She says a housing officer from Brighton & Hove Council recommended extractor fans be installed in 2021 - but claims they didn't make any difference.

And she claims in September 2023 an environmental health officer visited the property and said the mould was caused by cooking, showering and 'breathing too much' at night.

In December 2023, she says letting agents Martin&Co and the landlord agreed to do a deep clean - but says this had to be put on hold until March while she recovered from surgery.

But now she says the property has still not been deep cleaned, she claims.

'I've been diagnosed with depression and anxiety because of this, and I don't sleep well at night,' said Ms Pope.

'I have chest pains and I'm losing hair from stress - it's been a lot on my mental health but mainly frustration about not getting any help from anyone.

'I'm scared about my son's health. I don't know if he'll wake up in the morning with respiratory issues.

'He was diagnosed with asthma last year and is constantly coughing and wheezing all the time - he can't sleep at night.

'I'm very frustrated and I feel helpless. I've not had any help.'

The flat let by Martin&Co is covered in mould in every inch

A spokesperson for Martin&Co said: 'Martin and Co always respond efficiently and quickly to all issues within the properties we manage.

'We inspect the properties on a regular basis and highlight issues with the landlords and offer support to the tenants to prevent issues getting worse.

'We take any health issues related to mould or poor ventilation very seriously and in this situation, we have taken the proactive approach throughout with fitting in mechanical ventilation and responding to various issues and leaks throughout the tenancy.

'We have been waiting for some time since the visit in December 2023 to help the tenants with getting the walls and doors deep cleaned throughout the property and making further repairs.

'We have found this process was being held up by the tenant, even though this would have improved the property and health issues for their family member.

'We have finally been given the green light by the solicitor and tenant for access to get these issues rectified quickly and work with the landlord and tenant to get these problems resolved'.
Police removed a long rope and paint chips from the porch of suspected Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermanns Massapequa Park home.

Crews wearing gloves and face masks were seen standing on folding chairs collecting paint chips from underneath the porch rafters on Thursday afternoon - on day four of the search that started on Monday when officials raided Heuermanns home for a second time.

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney arrived at the home Thursday afternoon around 3.40pm. He went inside the property, and approximately 20 minutes later emerged and left. He did not speak to any news crews standing nearby.

It remains unclear if today marks the last day of the search. Last summer, Tierney appeared at Heuermanns home when the initial search was done at the home that lasted 12-days.

Two members of the crime lab are pictured taking paint chip samples from Heuermann's porch

A crime lab specialists examines a rope that she labels with evidence tape

The forensic worker was seen unwinding the rope from a pole at the Heuermann property

Heuermann is charged with four murders attributed to the Gilgo Beach serial killer

Members of the crime lab were seen placing the chips that were removed from the porch rafters into a brown bag, and taking photos.

The NYS Police Command Center vehicle left the block mid-day, and a truck loaded with evidence pulled away from the driveway and off Heuermanns block a few hours later.

The Suffolk County Police Department and NYS Troopers have been present since a new search warrant was executed on Monday. It is not clear what prompted the search, and what they were looking for.

Heumanns 27-year-old daughter Victoria Heuermann was reported to be the only person home when officers knocked on the door of the home, and she was asked to leave the premises so they could execute the search warrant.

Robert Macedonio, Asa Ellerup's attorney, added that Victoria was 'fully cooperative.'

Her mother, Asa Ellerup, the estranged wife of Heuermann, and her son Christopher Sheridan, 34, were reported to have been away in South Carolina before the search was executed.

Since Monday teams of investigators have been removing bags, boxes, furniture and household items from the home. The medical examiner was on site earlier in the week.

Crime lab specialists using a flashlight during the search for the paint chips

Team member pictured holding up one of the items he is collecting in the light before it goes to crime lab

The larger truck with the red front engine is where they were loading possessions of the family to clear out the rooms to do more searching and the white box truck is actual evidence truck that goes back to the crime lab for testing

Investigators left huge piles of clothing and possessions strewn on the home's front porch in the rain on Thursday

Heuermann's wife Asa Ellerup and his son Christopher Sheridan, 34, (pictured following his arrest in July 2023) were reported to have been away in South Carolina before the search was executed

Thursday's search, the fourth this week, came amid a second effort from Long Island investigators to scour Heuermann's home for potential evidence.

The initial search lasted 12-days last July, following the architect's dramatic arrest on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue where he worked.

In that search last year, investigators seized a huge cache of weapons from the home, including at least four long-barreled firearms.

Several more blue plastic boxes with weapons in them were also seen being hauled from the property, as it was revealed that he had permits for a staggering 92 firearms.

Investigators were reportedly scouring the home at the time for potential 'trophies' from the victims Heuermann is accused of murdering, however it is unclear if any were found.

The crimes Heuermann has been charged with relate to the decade-long search for the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killer, with a total of 11 bodies - seven of which he has not been charges with - found on Gilgo Beach between 2010 and 2011.

The crimes Heuermann has been charged with relate to the decade-long search for the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killer, with a total of 11 bodies - seven of which he has not been charges with - found on Gilgo Beach between 2010 and 2011

Meanwhile, neighbors from the middle class community where Heuermann lived for all of his life in Massapequa Park, close to where the victim's remains were found, have described him as a menacing figure whose home was avoided by children at Halloween.

'We would cross the street. He was somebody you don't want to approach,' neighbor Nicholas Ferchaw, 24, told the New York Times after his arrest.

It was also revealed after his arrest that Heuermann was once kicked out of a Whole Foods for stealing oranges and owed thousands in back taxes.

The newly recently video showing the arrest of Heuermann sees him walking through a busy street at dusk during rush hour with a bag slung over his back. He appears unaware that he's being pursued by police officers.

Eventually, a group of suit-wearing officers stop and surround Heuermann. The arrest occurred around 8:30pm. A little over 12 hours later, he was arraigned on three first-degree murder charges in a Long Island courtroom.

A long-time colleague of Heuermann told the Times that he spoke to the suspect on Thursday evening, noting that he was cracking jokes. 'That must have been right before he left the office and they arrested him,' Steve Kramberg told the Times.

The suspect's neighbors were long wary of the mysterious architect. One, Mike Schmidt, said he would often shares beers with another neighbor and point at Heuermann's home and remark: 'He probably has bodies in there,' according to the Times.
A Utah woman who was charged last month with sexual battery after she pulled down the skirt of a teenager at a restaurant was fired from her job at the Utah Attorney General's Office.

Freshly-released court documents reveal that Ida Lorenzo, 48, was terminated from her relatively new position on April 25, the same day she was charged with sexual battery.

Lorenzo was captured on video at a crowded restaurant in St. George, Utah, tugging on another woman's skirt and told her to be mindful of 'what she was showing, especially with small kids around,' according to a police booking affidavit.

During the viral, 36-second video, the young woman's friends can be heard telling Lorenzo: 'You do not get to touch her.'

Ida Lorenzo was charged with a Class A misdemeanor, after the skirt-pulling incident on April 20 in the lobby of Sakura Japanese Steakhouse . A TikTok video of the altercation, filmed by one of the victim's friends, later went viral

Lorenzo also appeared to flash a badge and said, 'I happen to work for the state,' as she threatened to call child protective services.

Local law enforcement authorities say on the day after the incident occurred, Lorenzo called 911 to report harassment related to the unpleasant encounter.

She was charged in 5th District Court on the 25th with sexual battery, a class A misdemeanor.

Local outlet KSL reported that, according to records released Wednesday via a public records request, Lorenzo's employment with the Washington County office of the state AG was terminated on the same day that she was charged.

The documents noted that she had only been in the job for around six weeks, after she was hired on March 4 by the office as a legal secretary.

Lorenzo was booked into the Purgatory Correctional Facility in Hurricane and released after posting bail. She is seen here seconds before her arrest

The termination letter reportedly reads: 'I am writing to inform you that you have not passed your probationary employment period successfully and today, April 25, 2024, you are being separated from state employment with the attorney general's office.

'Your noncompliance with policies and standards related to performance contributed to this decision.'

According to police documents, the evening of the alleged assault, Lorenzo approached the young woman and pulled her skirt down while telling her to 'be aware of what she was showing, especially with small kids around.

'This caused all the people with her to accuse (Lorenzo) of sexually assaulting the female,' read police records.

Lorenzo told authorities she 'never' touched the other woman, and that she had merely 'touched the female's skirt.'

An officer told her that she had still 'engaged in criminal behavior by touching the female's clothing, and her behavior was not appropriate.'

The incident took place in Sakura Japanese Steakhouse in St. George, Utah on April 20

Following the incident, the teenager contact the police to report that she had been 'sexually assaulted while in the lobby' of the St. George restaurant.

The woman (Lorenzo) had 'confronted' her 'while her back was turned to her, and without any notice, or formal warning, she felt cold hands go up her skirt, touching her buttocks before she felt her skirt being pulled on,' according to police records.

The young woman said she felt 'startled' and 'violated' by the encounter.

Lorenzo is next scheduled to appear in court in June.
Elon Musk made a terrifying prediction about artificial intelligence and warned parents about how the technology is harming children.

Musk, 52, spoke at a tech conference on Thursday about the future of AI, and cautioned the audience that it will take over most of their jobs.

Speaking remotely via webcam at VivaTech 2024 in Paris, the Tesla CEO said 'probably none of us will have a job' when discussing how AI will develop and grow.

'If you want to do a job that's kinda like a hobby, you can do a job,' Musk said. 'But otherwise, AI and the robots will provide any goods and services that you want.'

Musk explained that, for this scenario to work, there has to be 'universal high income'.

Elon Musk made a terrifying prediction about artificial intelligence and warned parents about how technology is harming children

Universal high income (UHI) is a concept that envisions a society where AI reduces the cost of human labor - which would make basic needs affordable for everyone.

This concept is not to be confused with universal basic income, which refers to the government giving a certain amount of money to everyone no matter what their income is.

'There would be no shortage of goods or services,' Musk said, describing the future of AI.

Artificial intelligence has progressed rapidly over the past few years, leaving researchers and regulators scrambling to keep up.

However, researchers at MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab found in January that workplaces are adopting AI far slower than experts had predicted and feared.

Experts do not believe that AI can take over certain jobs that require high levels of emotional intelligence - such as mental health professionals, teachers and creatives, according to CNN.

Despite being sure of AI's role in our future, Musk described the technology as his biggest fear and has been outspoken regarding his concerns.

The Space X CEO added at the conference that he plans to put people on Mars 'probably within 10 years, maybe seven to eight' - but said while his 'biggest hope is Mars - my biggest fear is AI.'

"My biggest hope is Mars. My biggest fear is AI."



The final words of @elonmusk at #VivaTech pic.twitter.com/jdQyQ1VrQj  Viva Technology (@VivaTech) May 23, 2024

Musk referenced the 'Culture Book Series' by Ian Banks, which is a utopian fictionalized look at a society run by advanced technology - which he says is the most realistic and 'the best envisioning of a future AI.'

He questioned whether humans would be fulfilled with a life without jobs and careers.

'The question will really be one of meaning  if the computer and robots can do everything better than you, does your life have meaning?' he said. 'I do think there's perhaps still a role for humans in this  in that we may give AI meaning.'

Musk also issued a warning to parents about allowing their children to use technology.

The billionaire told parents to limit the amount of time their kids spend on social media because 'they're being programmed by a dopamine-maximizing AI.'

Musk, 52, spoke at a tech conference on Thursday about the future of AI and how it will take over most jobs

Musk recently claimed that 'AI will be smarter than any human by the end of 2025' - and experts said he could be right.

Nell Watson, an AI expert and ethicist, shared a detailed timeline of how the tech could transform from chatbots to super intelligent agents over the next 12 months.

The path would start with a massive $100 billion investment in new computing infrastructure, then AI would learn how to self-improve until it becomes 'conscious.'

'Although one year is a short time frame, remember that only 15 months have passed since ChatGPT's breakthrough, which thrust AI into the public consciousness, she told DailyMail.com.
An 11-year-old boy has been charged by police in Pennsylvania after allegedly spending almost three years sexually assaulting two much younger children.

State police in Mercer County began a rape investigation after receiving an 'an allegation of sexual abuse' against the boy who lives in the rural Otter Creek Township outside Greenville.

The child repeatedly assaulted a boy aged seven and a girl aged three 'on multiple occasions' in the town from the start of April 2021 to December 2023, police believe.

Both victims live in Akron, Ohio, more than 70 miles south-east from the boy's Pennsylvania home and it is not clear whether they have moved there since the alleged abuse occurred.

Police believe the two young victims endured 32 months of abuse (stock photo)

'At the completion of this investigation, the actor was charged with sexually assaulting two other juvenile victims between the above dates at the above location on multiple occasions,' a Pennsylvania State Police report read.

'Charges have been filed against the actor through Mercer County Juvenile Probation.'

Research estimates that over half of child sexual abuse offenses in the United States are committed by perpetrators under the age of 18.

But a 2020 study reported in the Journal of Child Sexual Abuse found that child perpetrators often have different motivations for abuse than adult offenders and tend to respond more favorably to treatment.
A fatal plane crash that killed a father and son was caused by the aircraft hitting a stray powerline, a new report has revealed.

Ben Mumford, 50, and his son Charlie, 24, died when their Cessna 172N plane crashed near their Merriton property, 190km north of Adelaide, at 4.15pm on October 8, 2023.

Mr Mumford was airlifted to the Royal Adelaide Hospital in a critical condition where he later died. His son was pronounced dead at the scene.

An Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) report has revealed that Mr Mumford collided with a single-wire aerial powerline as he attempted to land which caused the plane to crash into the ground and burst into flames.

The report found that the stray powerline was 8.5metres off the ground and because of its position at the end of the runway, increased the likelihood of a crash.

A plane piloted by Ben Mumford and his son, Charlie, crashed after hitting a solitary powerline during their landing

The runway - on a private piece of land owned by Mr Mumford - was surrounded by grass and the ATSB's chief commissioner Angus Mitchell found that Mr Mumford likely lost track of the powerline while landing.

'Powerlines, especially single wires, are notoriously difficult to see from the air, and pose an ongoing hazard to aircraft, as this tragic accident shows,' Mr Mitchell said.

'[The powerline] was not marked in a manner sufficient to enhance visibility for pilots using the runway  nor was there a requirement to do so.

'This highlights the importance that airstrips on rural properties should be well separated from power lines, even when the strip is only intended for use by pilots familiar with the wires.'

When Mr Mumford's plane clipped the powerline it immediately crashed into the ground and exploded into a fuel-fire.

The report found that the pilots would have needed to aim to land halfway down the 700m landing strip if they wanted to avoid the line.

A report from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau found that the pilot likely lost track of the powerline during their descent onto Mr Mumford's Merriton property on October 8, 2023

A marking had previously been placed on an adjacent pole to warn pilots of the solitary line which could not be seen by approaching planes, Mr Mitchell noted.

'This [marker] was to alert pilots flying along it to the presence of another powerline crossing above or below, rather than when on approach to the runway.

'Further, when passing a powerline that has been seen, its oblique orientation relative to the runway can also increase the chance of a wire strike from a pilot misjudging the point where the aircraft would be in conflict with the wire.'

In South Australia property owners can request telecom and power companies to install markers near anything that can be hazardous to low-level flying operations.

Mr Mitchell urged rural property owners to carefully check their own airstrips to ensure that wires are properly marked.
Universities to officially announce revised admissions plans by May 30, making quota hike irreversible

By Jun Ji-hye

The implementation of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration's plan to increase the admissions quota for medical schools next year was finalized at a meeting held on Friday by the Korea Council for University Education, despite the continued protests by doctors.

According to revised admissions quota submitted by universities operating medical schools across the country, the total enrollment for next year will increase by 1,509 from the current 3,058. The new slots are fewer than the government's initial plan of 2,000.

During its meeting, the council approved these revised plans as well as other details, such as the recruitment of regional talent and the ratios for regular and early admissions.

This marks the first rise in medical school admission seats in nearly three decades  the last hike was when Jeju National University opened its medical school in 1998.

Attempts by previous governments to raise the number of medical students, made in 2018 and 2020, foundered due to fierce opposition from doctors who raised concerns that the hike would compromise the quality of medical education and training.

The Yoon government renewed the attempt to expand the quota as part of its medical sector reform initiative, aimed at improving public access to health care services and improving the working environment of physicians, especially those in essential treatment fields such as pediatrics, obstetrics and emergency medicine.

Nevertheless, the plan, again, provoked protests by doctors, and this time, more than 90 percent of trainee doctors at major hospitals nationwide, walked off their jobs as of February, resulting in massive disruptions to medical services.

According to the Ministry of Education, universities will officially announce their revised admissions plans for 2025, approved by the council, on their websites by the end of the month. The completion of these processes will make the medical school enrollment quota hike irreversible.

The 1,509 new seats are for the 2025 school year, and it is unclear whether the increased annual number will continue as the Yoon administration has planned.

In their protest, trainee doctors on strike have continued to refuse to return to work, while medical professors have submitted letters of resignation or suspended treating patients in support of these young doctors.

Nevertheless, the government made it clear, once again, that it will continue to push for its medical sector reform initiative.

We will expand support for trainee doctors. We urge them to trust the government and return to work promptly. That will be the beginning to resolve the standoff, Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo said during a media briefing.

Park also renewed calls on doctors groups, such as the Korean Medical Association, to come to the table without conditions.
An Australian man who was on board the terrifying Singapore Airlines flight when it suffered severe turbulence said his wife has lost feeling from the waist down due to a severe spinal injury and remains in intensive care.

Keith Davis, 59, from Adelaide, and his wife Kerry Jordan were on their way home from a holiday in the UK when the aircraft suddenly plunged on its way from London to Singapore on Tuesday.

Passengers were thrown to the ceiling, suffering severe injuries while 73-year-old British man, Geoffrey Kitchen, died from a suspected heart attack.

The plane made an emergency landing in Bangkok with dozens requiring medical treatment.

Nine Australians remain in the city's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, including Mr Davis and his wife, with three in intensive care.

Keith Davis, 59, (pictured) from Adelaide, and his wife Kerry Jordan had been on their way home from a holiday in the UK when the aircraft suddenly plunged on its way from London to Singapore on Tuesday

Mr Davis' wife Kerry remains in the ICU and has lost feeling from her waist down

Mr Davis spoke to media from his hospital bed and was seen with a bandage around his head and a heavily bruised eye.

He said while he was 'absolutely fine' and only suffered superficial injuries, his wife had undergone emergency surgery for a severe spinal injury.

He has also blasted the actions of Singapore Airlines after the pair were admitted to hospital.

'My wife is in a very serious condition, she's still in ICU. She's had emergency surgery and she has no feeling from her waist down so it is a pretty scary time,' he told Sunrise on Friday morning.

Mr Davis said he and his wife were taking it 'day by day' as they wait for her condition to improve.

'Our aim is to get her into a safe condition that she can actually fly. That is the key thing. So the medical support here at the hospital has been absolutely exemplary,' Mr Davis said.

The 59-year-old said he wasn't wearing his seatbelt at the time the plane suddenly dropped.

'There was no warning, no announcement. We didn't see any indication at all. It was instantly like ''wow, what?'' It was so surreal,' he said.

'We are on the ceiling and then wham, we hit the floor and we are thinking ''what on Earth has happened?"'

Mr Davis initially blasted Singapore Airlines, saying there had been no communication from them about what they had to do.

'I called Singapore Airlines as soon as we'd been admitted to hospital and they said they'd call back. Then I called them again that night, they said they'd be calling back,' he earlier told The Advertiser.

'I've been here three days, my wife is in the ICU, I have not had contact from Singapore airlines... nothing.

'Where are you Singapore Airlines?'

He has since received a visit from the airline's CEO Goh Choon Phong in person.

The airline has apologised to Mr Davis and his wife and said they will provide further assistance to the couple.

The disaster, which was caused by a pocket of unexpected turbulence 11 hours into the journey, forced the plane to make an emergency landing at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport

Mr Davis said he knew something was wrong when his wife was unable to move after hitting the ceiling during the turbulence.

'She hit the ground so hard. And you know, I leant over her and said ''hey, hey, honey, are you okay?''' he told The Today Show.

'I could see she was breathing. She could speak, but you know, you see someone hit the ground, they're going to try and get up. That wasn't happening.

'And then I realised I was, you know, pouring blood all over her. And so I thought ''wow, we're in a lot of serious trouble here''.'

Ms Jordan had to stay in the aisle for the rest of the flight while her husband tried to protect her from any further harm.

Mr David is now waiting for his wife to recover so she can be medevaced home to Adelaide.

In pictures of the aftermath, one air stewardess was seen with blood over her face (pictured)

Thai authorities said 40 people from the flight remain in hospital, with 22 being treated for spinal injuries.

Six patients are also being treated for skull and brain injuries.

Adinun Kittiratanapaibool, Director of Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, said the oldest patient at the hospital is 83-years-old and the youngest is a two-year-old child who suffered a concussion.

Ten Brits, seven Malaysians and four Philippine citizens were also among the 40 people in hospital.

There were 211 passengers and 18 crew on board the aircraft at the time.

The majority of passengers were put on a relief flight to Singapore on Wednesday, with most having now reached their final destination.

Singapore Airlines has offered its condolences to the family of the man who died and apologised for the 'traumatic experience' passengers and crew suffered.
Furious Tories have branded Rishi Sunak a 'clown' and have called for a confidence vote after his election announcement - as five more Tory MPs including two ministers announced that they were stepping down yesterday.

Leaked WhatsApp messages from those on the right-wing of the party have slammed the premier for going to the polls on July 4.

While it is reported that Tory donor David Campbell Bannerman called for a confidence vote in the Prime Minister in one group of disgruntled Conservatives.

It comes as transport minister Huw Merriman, Deputy Speaker Dame Eleanor Laing, employment minister Jo Churchill and James Grundy said they would not fight to keep their seats.

Conservative former minister Sir Michael Ellis also announced he will not be standing for re-election.

The Northampton North MP, who has served in several prominent ministerial positions including as attorney general, said it was an 'extremely difficult decision' not to stand again.

Among his 'lasting legacy' achievements, he counted the 'Diamond and Platinum Jubilee gifts I arranged for the late Queen' on the Parliamentary estate, and a plaque to commemorate former prime minister Spencer Perceval, a Northampton MP, and the only premier to have ever been assassinated.

Furious Tories have branded Rishi Sunak a 'clown' and have called for a confidence vote after his election announcement

Transport minister Huw Merriman was one of five Tory MPs who have announced they are stepping down ahead of the general election

Deputy Speaker Dame Eleanor Laing (left) and Sir Michael Ellis also revealed they would not be standing

It brings the total number of Tory MP standing down to 71 - more than a fifth of the party - as it edges closer to the record number of 75 who declared their names would not be on the ballot paper ahead of Labour's landslide victory in 1997.

In one leaked WhatsApp message, The Mirror reported Tories reacting in fury to the Prime Minister's announcement, with one saying: 'The clown has just consigned the party to the political wilderness.'

While another described the summer snap election as 'madness'.

Also departing Parliament are Labour former minister Kevan Jones and MP Yvonne Fovargue who sat on the privileges committee that investigated Partygate.

The Prime Minister's decision to call a summer election took many by surprise and it is expected more MPs will quit as the campaigns begin.

Mr Merriman did not specify a reason for his departure but thanked his staff, local Conservative association and the Prime Minister, and paid tribute to his constituency.

Dame Eleanor, the Deputy Commons Speaker who was elected as a Conservative MP but relinquished party affiliation to take up her role, also announced she would stand down.

The MP for Epping Forest, who has served for 27 years, tweeted that she had informed Mr Sunak 'several days ago'.

She was close to tears in the Commons chamber as she thanked MPs for their tributes following the announcement, and said she was leaving the 'best job in the world'.

Ms Churchill cited 'family reasons' in her resignation letter, and said she had the 'utmost respect for the difficult job' of the Prime Minister.

Mr Grundy, the Tory MP for Leigh since 2019, meanwhile told his local newspaper he would not feature on the ballot paper.

The first ever Conservative MP for the constituency said he had sat in the most challenging Parliament 'since the one that sat during World War 2'.

He added there had been a 'saddening change in the political climate' as he expressed concerns about security threats faced by MPs, their families and staff.

Mr Jones said in a letter announcing his decision not to stand it would be 'impossible' for him to fight the campaign as he is undergoing surgery in early June for 'an ongoing condition'.

Jo Churchill cited 'family reasons' in her resignation letter, and said she had the 'utmost respect for the difficult job' of the Prime Minister

James Grundy, the Tory MP for Leigh since 2019, meanwhile told his local newspaper he would not feature on the ballot paper

The North Durham MP described his decision as 'difficult', adding: 'I am sad to be leaving the House of Commons but would like to thank the people of North Durham and my supporters who gave me the opportunity to serve them.'

Labour MP for Makerfield Ms Fovargue also announced her intention not to stand again, saying it was the 'right time' to step down.

Prominent Tories not standing for re-election include Dominic Raab, the former deputy prime minister, Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, and Sajid Javid.

Speculation that Chancellor Jeremy Hunt would not fight the next election was scotched yesterday after he announced his intention to stand in a new constituency after his was abolished.

Last weekend Chris Heaton-Harris, the Northern Ireland Secretary, announced he would also quit parliament.

Meanwhile, former health secretary Matt Hancock and MP Bob Stewart both had the Tory whip restored as a 'goodwill gesture' even though both are standing down.

Mr Hancock lost it for appearing on 'I'm a Celeb', while Mr Stewart lost it after being found guilty of a racially aggravated offence, though was later cleared on appeal.
New Tesla owners have suffered a rapid $5,000 loss in the value of their electric vehicles after Elon Musk's company, and several other EV makers, dropped their prices.

Sunshine Coast motorist Jason C recently bought a Model Y RWD for $60,900 plus on-road costs - but just two weeks later found the price had dropped to $55,900.

'What's going on?' he asked car advice columnist Iain Curry, news.com.au reported.

'Elon and his company aren't endearing themselves to customers. Resale's going to be a nightmare when we sell it.'

Tesla prices have been fluctuating drastically as EV brands try to keep up with increasing competition.

New Tesla owners have suffered a rapid $5,000 loss in the value of their electric vehicles with the Model Y RWD dropping in price to $55,900

Mr Curry responded: 'The Model Y RWD reached peak selling price of $72,300 in June 2022; it was $69,300 in May 2023, and a year later is now $13,400 cheaper.

'Not great news for you: yours has basically shed an extra $5k [in value] overnight. Even the most hardcore Tesla-owning loyalist won't be happy, and you're doubtless fuming.

'There's been heavy EV discounting this month: Peugeot's e-2008 is down $25,000 and the Nissan Leaf down over $10,000, both now $39,990 drive-away.'

Elon Musk's company previously had a firm hold over the EV market with its Model Y found to be the world's most popular car in 2023.

However, Tesla dropped its prices in Australia in response to increased competition as well-known carmakers expanded their EV ranges, with Chinese brands offering significantly lower prices.

In fact, China's BYD sold more cars than Tesla in 2023.

Mr Curry explained BYD's Seal sedan, Dolphin hatchback and Atto 3 compact SUV were more popular than their Tesla counterparts.

Tesla will face even more competition as new EV alternatives enter the Australian markets, including XPeng, Leapmotor and Zeekr.

Tesla dropped its prices in Australia in response to increased competition as well-known carmakers expanded their EV ranges, with Chinese brands offering significantly lower prices (stock image)

BMW, Toyota and Kia are all making their mark on the EV market as well.

Kia will soon launch its new EV5 in Australia. The model is built in China to help keep its pricing low and stock high.

Volvo has already launched its compact SUV EV, the EX30, which was cheaper than Tesla's Model Y before its price drop.
Bruce Lehrmann's former landlord is trying to lump him with an enormous bill over the 'extensive damage' he allegedly caused to her multimillion-dollar Sydney property, claiming she was unable to re-lease it when he left.

Lehrmann, 28, moved out of the luxury three-bedroom home in Balgowlah, in Sydney's northern beaches, in early April when his deal with Channel Seven for a years' worth of accommodation at $2000 per week came to an end.

He then moved into another mansion with a friend in North Sydney, but that was short-lived after furious neighbours complained of wild parties, 'shrieking' girls, and Tina Turner karaoke.

The owner of the Balgowlah property, Lady Gaenor Meakes, has now launched a case in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) against Lehrmann for damage and financial loss because he left three weeks before the lease ended.

Lehrmann's name was on the tenancy agreement, but his bills were covered by Channel Seven's finance department.

He didn't show up to a conciliation session scheduled at the tribunal in Sydney on Thursday, organised to help resolve the dispute, because Lady Meakes hadn't been able to find him to serve him with the documents.

Lady Meakes told the tribunal she wasn't able to rent the home after Lehrmann left due to the 'cleaning that had to be done', but Daily Mail Australia can reveal the property was relisted on rental sites on Tuesday for $2250 per week.

Bruce Lehrmann is pictured on the balcony of his former Balgowlah rental in December 2023

Lady Gaenor Meakes launched a case in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal earlier in May

Pictured: The luxury Balgowlah property, worth an estimated $4million, is up for rent for $2250 per week

The price has almost doubled since the rental was first advertised in May 2023 for $1300. It understood Channel Seven paid an increased rate of $2000 per week to cover Lehrmann's utilities.

According to the new rental listing, 'no expense has been spared'.

'The property enjoys a perfect aspect and stunning views to Manly,' it reads.

'Designed over three levels, with an emphasis on space, there are two master bedrooms (both with ensuite bathrooms) and one also incorporates a wellness space for yoga, an infrared sauna and a designated home study/office area.

'Entertaining is made easy with a chef's kitchen and an open plan living/dining room, all designed to soak in the expansive views.'

Lady Meakes is married to champion sailor Mark Richards, skipper of Wild Oats XI, which is a nine-time line honours winner of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race and sponsored by Channel Seven.

Mr Richards transferred ownership of the property to his wife after they bought it for $2.4million in 2019. The property is now worth an estimated $4million.

Pictured: The master bedroom at Lady Meakes' Balgowlah property

The property (pictured) has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and parking for two cars

The home (pictured) has water views, two balconies and a private courtyard

During the hearing on Thursday, Lady Meakes told the tribunal she tried sending the NCAT documents to Lehrmann's defamation lawyers Mark O'Brien Legal in Sydney, but the package was returned to sender, The Australian reported.

Lehrmann is understood to have fled NSW after he lost his defamation case in the Federal Court against Lisa Wilkinson and Network Ten in April, and has no fixed address.

Lady Meakes was granted permission to serve Lehrmann with the documents via email.

Asked how long she would need to send him the paperwork, Lady Meakes told the tribunal: 'I have quite a lot of documents.'

When contacted for comment on Friday, Lehrmann referenced the national housing crisis and accused Lady Meakes of 'kicking a dog while it's down'.

'I can certainly sympathise with all those who have been dealing with entitled landlords in this cost of living crisis,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

Bruce Lehrmann is pictured on an episode of Channel Seven's Spotlight program

'Otherwise I'm not going to play this out in the media as they seem to want to do.

'Talk about kicking a dog while it's down.'

Lehrmann is already up for millions of dollars in legal fees after his spectacular defamation loss on April 15.

He had sued over an interview Wilkinson did with Brittany Higgins on The Project in 2021, during which she claimed Lehrmann had raped her in Parliament House in 2019.

Lehrmann, who had denied the assault, wasn't named in the broadcast but he claimed friends and colleagues were able to identify him as Ms Higgins' rapist.

However, Justice Michael Lee found on a balance of probabilities that Lehrmann had raped Ms Higgins in the way she described in her interview.

He now faces bankruptcy to cover the legal bills for the winning parties, which is expected to amount to more than $2million.

Lehrmann has until May 31 to appeal Justice Lee's decision.
First, the bad news. Net migration  the number of people entering the country legally minus those who left  was an eye-watering 685,000 last year.

That is three times the level it was before the Tories won the 2019 election vowing to slash it. When did anyone vote for this? It is putting immense and unmanageable pressure on public services and infrastructure that no one has planned for.

For a government committed to controlling our borders this is deeply wounding. But now the good news. In the past 12 months, net migration plunged by ten per cent.

And with the Conservatives having brought in tougher visa curbs in April, the numbers should drop dramatically again this year.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer makes the literally incredible claim that only Labour can be trusted to repair our broken immigration system. This from a man whose party has opposed every attempt to restrict migration because deep down it doesnt believe in border controls.

Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) makes the literally incredible claim that only Labour can be trusted to repair our broken immigration system

The same goes for tackling illegal immigration. Yes, its disappointing no Rwanda flights will leave before the election, but at least Rishi Sunak has a plan.

By vowing to scrap this deterrent and allowing all Channel migrants to claim asylum, Labour would make Britain a magnet for illegal immigrants.

This puts blue water between the main parties on this emotive issue. And Nigel Farages decision not to stand for Reform UK gives the Conservatives the chance to claim the mantle of being the only viable party that supports reduced migration.

If disgruntled Tory voters still switch to Reform UK in protest at the scale of the influx, they will only end up handing power to Sir Keirs open borders brigade.

Spectre of Corbyn

If there is one name Sir Keir didnt want dredging up during the election campaign it is that of Jeremy Corbyn.

Not only because the toxic Trot could cost Labour a Commons seat if he stands as an independent candidate in North London.

But also, it raises serious questions about Sir Keirs own judgment, character and suitability for high office.

Every man and his dog could see that Mr Corbyn, who led the Labour Party from 2015 to 2020, was unfit to govern Britain.

If there is one name Sir Keir didnt want dredging up during the election campaign it is that of Jeremy Corbyn (pictured together)

But as other Labour MPs quit the shadow cabinet in disgust, Sir Keir and Angela Rayner stayed on the frontbench, straining every sinew to get Mr Corbyn into No 10.

Do they now regret promoting someone so inappropriate for PM? And can we truly believe their apparent rejection of traditional Hard Left positions is genuine?

If there is one ray of hope for the Conservatives, it lies in the fact that Sir Keir and his teams suitability for power is going to be scrutinised as never before.

Fur flies on vet fees

The British love of pets is such that we often treat them as members of the family.

Owners are prepared to spend whatever it takes to keep their cats and dogs healthy.

Sadly, this devotion has been exploited by companies who have cornered much of the market in veterinary services.

More than half of UK vet practices now belong to just six businesses. The result has been wildly inflated prices.

So we welcome the Competition and Markets Authority considering a cap on vets rip-off prescription fees. Yes, firms want to make a profit.

But its immoral to fleece those who are emotional because their pet is unwell or in its final days.
Border Force officials have taken a no-nonsense approach to illegal foreign fishing boats in Australian waters by setting them alight.

Extraordinary footage shows several boats off the coast up in flames and engulfed in plumes of thick, grey smoke off the coasts of Queensland and Western Australia's Kimberley region.

It comes amid an increase in the arrival of illegal Indonesian fishing boats, targeting sea cucumbers and shark fins, along with more people smuggling ventures reaching Australian shores.

This footage is being distributed within Indonesian villages identified as the starting points for many of these voyages in an effort to deter would-be illegal fishermen.

On Friday morning, Education Minister Jason Clare defended the practice of banning the boats, telling Sunrise 'illegal fishing is a serious thing'.

Extraordinary footage shows several boats off the coast up in flames and engulfed in plumes of thick, grey smoke off the coasts of Queensland and the Kimberley

'Anyone coming into our backyard and stealing things out of your backyard is serious.

'The only way to stop it is to burn their boats. Send a message that if you do this, you will lose the most valuable thing you have got - your boat.'

Operation Sovereign Borders Commander Rear Admiral Brett Sonter revealed in a bicoastal operation, more than 200 boats were seized, 48 sunk and 1,000 fishermen apprehended.

Rear Admiral Sonter said there had been a spike in illegal activity on Australian waters in recent weeks, noting many of the boats are not even seaworthy.

On a single day several weeks ago, border force officials detected 65 boats.

'Don't do it. It's not worth your livelihood. It's not worth your life,' he said.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neill said the government is collaborating with Indonesian authorities to disrupt illegal activity, and has poured an extra $50million into resourcing authorities.

Australia has a decades-long history of burning boats deemed to be operating illegally.

Back in 2021, Indonesia suspended a joint maritime patrol with the Australian Border Force after boats were set alight in similar circumstances.

Increasingly, fishermen have been setting sail seeking Australia's sea cucumber.

This is because it is considered a delicacy overseas, and prices have been steadily rising. An AgriFutures report estimates the global sea cucumber industry is valued at over $6.6billion.

In some parts of the world, like China, sea cucumber can be sold for as much as $1,000 per kilogram.

But there are broader concerns that illegal fishing vessels aren't the only boats entering Australian waters.

This footage is being distributed within Indonesian villages identified as the starting points for many of these voyages in an effort to deter would-be illegal fishermen

Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neill said the government is collaborating with Indonesian authorities to disrupt illegal activity, and has poured an extra $50million into resourcing authorities

Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley went head-to-head with Mr Clare on Friday, saying: 'I'm very concerned about illegal fishing and the sea cucumber plays a vital role in the ecosystem of our oceans.

'But I'm also concerned about the illegal boats that are coming as people smuggling vessels.'

In November 2023, an asylum seeker boat reached mainland Australia for the first time in years.

The group were promptly sent to Nauru, which had not received a new intake of asylum seekers in nine years.

Rear Admiral Sonter said Operation Sovereign Borders is still in place, and warned against criminal people smugglers selling 'false hope' of an easy pathway to Australia.

'People smugglers continue to exploit and misrepresent real or perceived changes to Australia's migration settings,' he said.

'Anyone who attempts to migrate to Australia irregularly by boat will not settle here.'
Private gender clinics are to be banned from prescribing puberty blockers to children, the Health Secretary announced last night.

Victoria Atkins told MPs she would bring in a banning order on puberty blockers under rarely-used provisions from the 1968 Medicines Act.

She admitted the 'extraordinary use of that power' was unusual, but added she had taken bold steps to protect the welfare of vulnerable children.

With her statement coming just a day after Rishi Sunak called a general election, a government source confirmed that Ms Atkins intended implementing the ban 'before dissolution' of the current parliament.

The source also confirmed the ban would apply to controversial private clinics including Gender GP, who vowed to defy NHS guidance on puberty blockers.

Victoria Atkins (pictured) told MPs she would bring in a banning order on puberty blockers under rarely-used provisions from the 1968 Medicines Act

Ms Atkins told the Commons: 'I made it my priority to protect our children who have been questioning their gender in increasing numbers.

'The Cass Review laid bare the damaging effect that social media and degrading pornography has had on young people's sense of self.

'It is also set out clearly the need for extreme caution in medical interventions.

'Today I want to set out my clear intention to introduce a banning order on puberty blockers, with limited exceptions, under Section 62 of the Medicines Act 1968.

'This is an extraordinary use of that power, but it is the right use of that power because we must protect our children and young people from this risk to their safety.'

The Cass Review into gender identity services concluded in April that children had been set on the path to irreversible change on scant medical evidence.

Dr Hilary Cass, who led the review, said gender medicine had been 'built on shaky foundations' and criticised the clinical guidelines which had been used.

NHS clinics were banned from prescribing puberty blockers to children over safety concerns a month before the review's publication. But the ban did not extend to private clinics with Dr Cass's Review emphasising that a loophole existed in the law.

The announcement was welcomed by women's rights groups, who congratulated Ms Atkins for flexing 'political muscle'.

Puberty blockers, known medically as gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogues, stop the physical changes of puberty in teens questioning their gender. Pictured one example of these drugs, called Triptorelin

Fiona McAnena, director of campaigns at human-rights charity Sex Matters, said: 'We applaud this bold political action to tackle the exploitation of loopholes by private clinics.

'Children need to be protected. Victoria Atkins' use of political muscle to ban puberty blockers will be welcomed by all those concerned by the devastating impact of so-called 'gender medicine' on children.'

Stephanie Davies-Arai, co-founder and director of Transgender Trend, added: 'We welcome this strong action from the Health Secretary to protect children.

'The prohibition of sale, effectively cutting off the private/online route for the supply of puberty blockers to children, is an important first step.

'But to really impact the business of private providers this needs to be extended to cross-sex hormones.

'NHS England is to review the commissioning policy for cross-sex hormones and Dr Cass has recommended they are used 'with extreme caution'.

'This is not the necessary level of care children will get from private providers.'

Dr Hilary Cass, who led the review, said gender medicine had been 'built on shaky foundations' and criticised the clinical guidelines which had been used.

Calls to ban 'Wild West' private gender clinics handing out puberty blockers to children increased in the wake of the Cass Review.

Campaigners, including former prime minister Liz Truss, called for 'cowboy clinics' to be barred from prescribing.

They said frustration with delays and NHS waiting lists had driven vulnerable children into the arms of unregulated private clinics.

The most senior family judge in England also recently issued a warning over private gender clinics after an autistic teenager was prescribed 'dangerously high' doses of hormones.

Sir Andrew McFarlane, the president of the Family Division of the High Court, warned 'any other court' should exercise 'extreme caution' over contact with Gender GP.

Gender GP - a Singapore-based clinic that is run by ex-NHS GP Dr Helen Webberley - has insisted it will prescribe puberty blockers to transgender children.

Gender GP was contacted for comment.
The 'holy grail' of shipwrecks remains at the bottom of the ocean stocked with billions of gold and jewels - but the Colombian government just made it harder for the treasure to be claimed.

The legendary San Jose galleon sank off its Caribbean coast over three centuries ago - taking down with it gold, silver and emeralds believed to be worth $20 billion in today's value.

On Wednesday, Colombia declared a 'protected archeological area' around the spot where the vessel sank off the Colombian port of Cartagena after its powder magazines detonated during a skirmish with the British in 1708.

The culture ministry said the designation 'guarantees the protection of heritage' through the ship's 'long-term preservation and the development of research, conservation and valuation activities.'

At the time of its sinking, the San Jose was owned by the Spanish crown - on board were 600 sailors, all but 11 of whom went down with the ship.

The legendary San Jose galleon (pictured in this painting) sank off its Caribbean coast over three centuries ago - taking down with it gold, silver and emeralds believed to be worth $20 billion in today's money

The San Jose was a 62-gun galleon that went down on June 8, 1708, with 600 people on board

The boat, dubbed the 'holy grail' of shipwrecks because of its abundant treasure, was heading back from the New World to the court of King Philip V of Spain when it plummeted to the bottom of the ocean.

The 62-gun galleon was sailing from Portobelo in Panama at the head of a treasure fleet of 14 merchant vessels and three Spanish warships when it encountered the British squadron near Baru.

In 2015, the Colombian government announced that a team of navy divers had discovered the legendary ship lying in nearly 3,100 feet of water.

Colombia announced the discovery of the San Jose that same year - but by that point, it had already caught the eye of adventurers.

Last year, another team brought back jaw-dropping images of its perfectly preserved cargo.

The Colombian government previously claimed that the ship would be raised before President Gustavo Petro ends his term of office in 2026.

However, there is set to be a grand fight over who owns the ship - with a US firm claiming that it discovered the vessel and is demanding a portion of the treasure.

The Spanish government and an indigenous group are also claiming ownership of the shipwreck.

American research company Glocca Morra claims it found the San Jose in 1981 and turned the coordinates over to the Colombians on the condition it would receive half the fortune once the vessel was recovered.

Gold coins were also picked up on the video released by the Colombian government

An intact Chinese dinner set and other crockery were amongst the ship's treasures

But the company's claim was countered in 2015 by Colombia's then-President Juan Manuel Santos, who said the Navy had found the boat at a different location on the seabed.

Glocca Morra, now called Sea Search Armada, is suing for half the treasure - around $10bn according to current estimates - under the US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, according to Bloomberg.

But the Colombian Minister of Culture Juan David Correa said the government's team had visited the coordinates given by Sea Search Armada and found no trace of the San Jose.

Complicating matters further, there are competing claims from the Spanish - whose Navy the vessel belonged to - and Bolivia's indigenous Qhara Qhara nation which says its people were forced to mine the gold and jewels, so the treasures belong to them.

Meanwhile, Colombia has hailed the find as a huge historic and cultural achievement.

Correa told Bloomberg: 'This is one of the priorities for the Petro administration. The president has told us to pick up the pace.'
Chaos consumed Majorca last night after four people died and 16 were injured when a nightclub and restaurant collapsed in Playa de Palma.

A hundred emergency responders raced to the Medusa Beach Club in the popular tourist resort on Thursday evening to a scene of devastation.

A terrace of the two-storey building is believed to have collapsed through to the basement of the building, which has left only the facade still standing, local media said.

As well as those confirmed dead and injured, reports overnight suggested as many as ten people were feared trapped under the rubble as desperate rescue operations continued.

Emergency crews told concerned locals gathering at the scene to remain silent so that rescue workers could hear sounds from trapped survivors.

Psychology experts were also brought in to support victims traumatised by the horrific events.

The total number of injured is now believed to stand at 16 and not 21 as officials had previously stated or 27 as well-placed sources said earlier in the evening.

Local media reported the three women and one man made up the deceased, and that two of them worked at the club, which according to its Instagram page unveiled a new rooftop bar just a few days ago.

A photo of the renovation was posted on Wednesday with the caption: 'Totally different, New rooftop.'

Fire teams scramble to help injured after the first floor of a club collapsed 'to the basement'

Chaos has consumed Majorca, after four people died and 16 were injured when a nightclub and restaurant in Playa de Palma

Around one hundred emergency responders raced to the scene of the incident, identified locally as a beach bar in the city called the Medusa Beach Club

The bar is understood to be popular with British and German tourists

At least four people are believed to be dead, with dozens injured in the carnage

Emotional reactions from people at the scene on Thursday amid desperate rescue operations

Just one day ago, the beach hut posted on Instagram: 'Totally different, New rooftop'

The bar is understood to be popular with British and German tourists, although details on the identities of those affected remain scarce. The Foreign Office said last night there are no reports that British nationals were involved in the incident.

A spokesperson said: 'We are aware of an incident in Palma, and there are currently no reports of British nationals having been involved. We remain in contact with the Spanish authorities.'

The floor of the premises caved around 8:45pm local time (7:45 BST) on Thursday, according to Catalan news outlet Rac 1, claiming the floor had 'collapsed to the basement' with many customers and staff still inside.

Public television for the Balearic Islands, IB3, reported there were people dancing on a terrace that collapsed on top of another floor underneath - although this has not been officially confirmed.

Residents have told how two storeys of restaurant and night club collapsed without warning at a popular night spot in Mallorca.

A fire brigade crane and rescue workers were going through rubble at the Medusa Beach Club.

Emergency services finalising the search and rescue operations have told those witnessing them remain silent as crews continue their work.

'We ask you silence because we need silence to see if we hear someone,' a police spokesperson told local radio.

'The terrace has come down, probably due to excessive weight,' he said, adding that the causes are still being investigated.

Horrific scenes show rescue workers attempting to pull survivors from the building

Emergency services at the scene of the disaster in the popular beach resort overnight

A woman sits with her hands on her head near the complex following the collapse on Thursday night

Emergency crews gather at the scene following the collapse of the building on Thursday

As well as those confirmed dead and injured, reports overnight suggested as many as ten people were feared trapped under the rubble as desperate rescue operations continued

The club in the popular beach resort unveiled a new rooftop bar just a few days ago

A floor of the popular restaurant and beach club collapsed earlier this evening

Emergency services were on hand to treat the injured alongside psychology professionals

One resident told MailOnline: 'It's terrible, two storeys collapsed and took everyone down with it.

'There were local people and tourists there. God help them.'

Tourists watched in horror from the beach in darkness as rescue workers from the Spanish fire brigade sifted through the rubble.

Rescue teams lifted huge pieces of masonry and concrete from the ruins.

Restaurants and bars adjacent to the collapsed building were forced to close but others nearby continued to play loud music and serve drinks.

Neighbours said they heard a loud noise followed by screams coming from the venue as the building collapsed, La Vanguardia reported.

 ESPANA - #ULTIMAHORA

MUERTOS Y HERIDOS TRAS EL DERRUMBE DE UN LOCAL DE OCIO EN PALMA



Un local de ocio en primera linea de la playa de Palma que se encontraba en obras, se ha derrumbado dejando por el momento la terrible cifra de 4 personas muertas (1 de ellas un pic.twitter.com/Ud6ype2akF     (@mysteryWN) May 23, 2024

Emergency services have been working late into the night

Neighbours said they heard a loud noise followed by screams coming from the venue as the building collapsed

Santiago Aranda, walking his dog with his wife at the time of the collapse, told Spanish outlet COPE's La Linterna: 'It's one thing to watch television and another thing is this and being there... I don't have words to describe it. It was an explosion, and we were in the street opposite.'

His voice trembling, he told how 'some ran in the opposite direction and others towards the dust' after the explosion.

Santiago told the outlet he stayed to help the wounded and 'get people out', assessing that '90 per cent' of those inside at the time were German, 'because of the screams, the wailing and the crying'.

Emergency services have not yet shared the identities of all of the deceased, and have neither confirmed nor denied whether tourists were involved.

 | Los equipos de emergencia continuan trabajando en el derrumbe del local Medusa Beach Club en la Playa de Palma. pic.twitter.com/Dxuqri1cW0  Qs (@herqles_es) May 23, 2024

Video footage showed people crowding around the bar in the immediate aftermath of the collapse.

But local media reported that one of the four people who have so far died following the collapse is Senegalese man Abdoulaye Diop.

Diop was a nightclub bouncer for Black Magic, a club just a three-minute walk away from Medusa.

First analyses suggest one of the terraces of the building may have collapsed, dragging the rest of the property down in on itself, according to the outlet.

Authorities were forced to call a crane company to help lift debris from the two-storey building with the extent of the casualties still unknown.

But there remain fears that efforts to remove the rubble could cause the remaining front of the building to topple back into itself.

Emergency services remained on the scene through dusk and into nightfall, working tirelessly to recover bodies and survivors, with seven so far reported to have been found in 'critical condition'.

At least seven fire engines were on site to assist rescue efforts, ladders lowered to provide access into the building.

And ambulance steamed towards the site, with local media reporting the carnage was given 'absolute priority'.

Authorities have also called on psychologists from the Official College of Psychology of the Balearic Islands to assist, as traumatised victims are pulled from the wreckage.

Crowds of people are still sat outside Medusa

Police sources have put the number of injured at at least 16

Playa de Palma is the beach area lying to the east of the Majorcan capital

The injured are currently being evacuated through the back of the restaurant, facing Trasime Street, where they are being treated.

Others have been taken to local hospital centres in Majorca, according to La Vanguardia.

Police sources have put the number of injured at at least 16.

Local emergency services, writing on Twitter/X, reported shortly before 11pm BST that four people were confirmed to have died, seven were very seriously injured, and nine were seriously injured.

A spokesman for a regional emergency response coordination centre said: 'We have activated an emergency response as a result of the collapse of the ceiling of a two-storey building in Avenida Cartago in Playa de Palma, where people are trapped.'

It was initially reported in Spain that a false ceiling could have collapsed, before being ruled out.

Playa de Palma is the beach area lying to the east of the Majorcan capital. It is especially popular with British and German holidaymakers. Around 3.2 million Brits travel to Majorca each year.

It is now feared disturbance to the site could cause further collapse of the building

Seriously injured people were taken to 'various' hospital centres across the island

Emergency services worked through the evening in a desperate attempt to rescue survivors

File photo. The Playa de Palma beach in S'Arenal in Mallorca, Spain

Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Marga Prohens, president of the Balearic Islands, wrote on Twitter/X: 'Shocked by the information I received about the collapse of Platja de Palma.

'Sending all my affection and warmth to the families of the four people who lost their lives in this tragic incident and wishing the recovery of all the injured.

'Thanks to all the emergency services that have moved to the scene and continue to work there.'

'I am closely following the consequences of the terrible collapse that occurred on the beach of Palma,' Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on X.

Sanchez said he had spoken to local and regional authorities, adding the government is ready to help 'with all the means and troops that are necessary.'

'I want to send my condolences to the families of the deceased and my wish for a speedy recovery to the injured,' he said.

The president of the opposition Popular Party Alberto Nunez Feijoo also expressed his condolences, writing on X: 'From the Popular Party we send our condolences to the affected families and our support to the emergency teams that continue working.

Both the PP and PSOE of the Balearic Islands agreed to suspend political campaigns for the upcoming European elections, scheduled for tomorrow, out of respect.
Former President Barack Obama made a surprise appearance at President Joe Biden's state dinner for the president of Kenya.

Obama, wearing a tux, was attending a VIP reception in the blue room of the White House for Kenyan President William Ruto, when he decided to drop in the glass pavilion on the South Lawn where the state dinner was taking place.

The former president walked down from the White House to the tent in the lower part of the White House lawn. He worked the room for about 10 minutes, leaving as President Biden was giving his toast. He slipped out a side door.

'He dropped into the dinner area to say hello,' a Obama official said.

Biden acknowledged his predecessor's drop in.

'Jill and I are honored to have you here and represented including many members, the African diaspora. One just left - Barack,' the president said at the top of his toast. 'He very briefly met President this morning and just here a little while ago.'

Former President Barack Obama and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken chat the Bidens' state dinner for the president of Kenya

Earlier Thursday, Obama, whose late father was Kenyan, met with Ruto at Blair House, the ornate guest house across Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House, where foreign dignitaries often stay.

The meeting, which Ruto confirmed in social media posts, was squeezed into a packed schedule that included a South Lawn ceremony, an Oval Office meeting and a press conference where Biden had to ask for stage directions multiple times.

'How have you been? Welcome to Washington. I hope everything is going well,' Obama told Ruto at the top of the Blair House meeting.

In his Facebook post, Ruto said he and the former president discussed 'opportunities available to Africa's young' as well as 'democratic developments, climate and peace and security challenges in Africa.'

The Bidens were hosting the Rutos for their sixth state dinner. With 500 guests invited, it was the biggest of their administration to date.

Ruto thanked the Bidens for giving him and his wife Rachel a warm welcome.

'It is now my honor to ask you ladies and gentlemen to raise your glasses and join me in a toast to the continued well being and long life of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill, to the continued security and prosperity of the people of the United States, and to the enduring bonds of friendship, partnership and solidarity between Kenya and the United States,' Ruto said.

Barack Obama was at a reception at the White House and decided to walk down to the tent holding the state dinner to say hi

Biden left as President Joe Biden was giving his toast, slipping out a side door

Former presidents tend not to be invited to White House state dinners in order to not overshadow the current Oval Office occupant.

But the Bidens already bucked that tradition last month by inviting former President Bill Clinton and his wife, former Democratic nominee and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, to a dinner feting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

That opened the door to the Obamas attending Thursday night's state dinner with Kenya, especially with the former president's familial connection.

Obama and Ruto previously met in 2015 during President Obama's visit to Kenya and while Ruto was serving as deputy president.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden enter the outdoor pavilion with Kenya's President William Ruto and first lady Rachel Ruto

Kenyan President William Ruto and President Biden give their toasts at the head table

The Howard University Gospel Choir performs in a glass pavilion on the South Lawn where the state dinner took place

Obama made history as the country's first black president when he was elected in 2008.

His mother was a white woman from Kansas, while his father was from Kenya.

Obama's father, Barack Obama Sr., didn't play an active role in his son's life.

Obama Sr. returned to Kenya when the future president was only a few years old and the two only saw each other one more time, when Barack was 10.

The elder Obama died at age 48 in 1982 from injuries sustained in a car crash.




South Korea is in talks with China and Japan to try to include a clause calling for the resolution of North Korea's abduction and detention of South Korean nationals in a joint statement from their trilateral summit next week, multiple Seoul government sources said Friday.

President Yoon Suk Yeol will meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Seoul on Monday, making the resumption of a long-stalled trilateral summit after 4 and a half years. The trilateral summit, the ninth of its kind, will either adopt a joint statement or a joint declaration.

The sources said there is discussion about including a clause that calls for solving the issues of South Korean abductees, detainees and prisoners of war (POWs) held in North Korea.

"In the joint statements from the seventh and eighth trilateral summits in 2018 and 2019, respectively, the resolution of the issue of Japanese abductees was included," a government source said on the condition of anonymity, adding that there is a high possibility of including the issue of Japanese abductees as well as South Korean nationals.

The three countries included a hope for Japan and North Korea to communicate on the abduction issue in their joint declaration in December 2019 when the trilateral summit was last held in the southwestern Chinese city of Chengdu.

In the 2018 trilateral summit in Tokyo, the joint declaration emphasized that the leaders of South Korea and China hoped for the prompt resolution of the abduction issue between North Korea and Japan through dialogue.

Currently, six South Koreans are being detained in North Korea, including three missionaries  Kim Jung-wook, Choi Chun-gil and Kim Kook-kie  whose whereabouts and fates are unknown.

Separately, 516 South Koreans have yet to return home among an estimated 3,835 people who were kidnapped by North Korea after the 1950-53 Korean War, according to government data. At least 60,000 POWs are also estimated to have not come back home after being detained in North Korea. (Yonhap)
Universities were plunged into a free speech row last night after the Russell Group issued a statement likening gender critics to anti-Semites.

The organisations response to a consultation by the Office for Students (OfS) said that universities would be expected to take steps to restrict unlawful speech.

It went on to say examples including anti-Semitic, Islamophobic or gender critical speech should be included in the OfSs guidance on free speech on campus.

The group later retracted the claim and apologised, but the original statement provoked a furious response from academics and free speech groups who branded it unacceptable prejudice.

Professor Jo Phoenix, who won an employment tribunal for constructive dismissal over her gender critical views, called it legally illiterate.

Picture shows the Radcliffe Camera, the Codrington library, Hertford College and All Souls' College in Oxford

Professor Jo Phoenix (pictured) won an employment tribunal for constructive dismissal over her gender critical views

Professor Jo Phoenix called the statement legally illiterate

She said: Russell Group leadership either does not care about academic freedom or is legally illiterate, and it is unacceptable prejudice to class gender critical beliefs in the same category as racism and Islamophobia.

The Free Speech Union said: Forty per cent of the cases weve taken on this year have involved gender critical feminists getting into trouble for saying something perfectly reasonable that a majority of people would agree with, e.g., male sex offenders shouldnt be housed in womens prisons, even if they claim to have transitioned.

The Russell Group, which represents many prestigious universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, later issued an apology.

They said: Our original submission on free speech guidance contained a serious error, incorrectly listing gender critical speech as an example of unlawful speech.

We apologise unreservedly for this error and we have republished our corrected summary.
An expert has revealed the surprising but simple secrets to making the most of your vacation without feeling as if you've wasted it.

Going on vacation is supposed to be a time spent relaxing and taking a break from the busy day-to-day routine of work and life tasks.

However, many travelers make the mistake of packing far too much into their trips in an effort to make the most of it and end up missing out on the rest and relaxation that a vacation should offer.

Jeff Galak, a consumer behavior and marketing researcher, spent the past two decades studying what makes people happy with what they consume, and shared his research with the Wall Street Journal.

Galak suggests that his findings can be applied to vacation experiences to help travelers find the joy in their time away - and he admits his advice may be surprising.

Galak says that a main reason that vacations fall flat is because enjoyment declines with time - so packing in as much time spent doing your 'favorite activities' can actually become unenjoyable and tedious (Pictured: A luxury resort in the Caribbean)

First of all, Galak advises that you should simply 'do less'.

If you love to hike - you might feel compelled to hike as much as possible on your trip. The same can be applied to going to the beach or visiting museums.

Instead of 'making the most' of your vacation time by packing your itinerary to the brim with your favorite activities, it is more valuable to do the things you enjoy less so that you value them more - and still have down time to rest and relax.

Galak says that a main reason that vacations fall flat is because enjoyment declines with time - so packing in as much time spent doing your 'favorite activities' can actually become less enjoyable and tedious.

He says that this notion can be applied to all that we as humans enjoy. For example - with chocolate cake the first bite is incredible, but the last bite is merely tasty and your stomach probably hurts.

Laying on the beach and basking in the sun feels great at first, but soon you are bored, overheating and covered in sand.

Jeff Galak, a consumer behavior and marketing researcher, spent the past two decades studying what makes people happy with what they consume

In order to combat the inevitable decline of enjoyment in 'joyful' activities, Galak suggests you simply do less.

He says you can accomplish 'doing less' in three ways: quantity, variety and timing.

In terms of quantity, it's important to leave on a high note instead of calling it a day once the activity has already begun a downward spiral towards unenjoyable. This way, you will only have positive memories of your experiences.

For variety when organizing the itinerary for your trip, don't stick to one thing, switch it up and try a range of different activities and experiences even within the same day.

You could hike in the morning and lay on the beach in the afternoon, or vice versa. This way there is less of a chance that your enjoyment of one single activity will drop.

With timing - Galak suggests that vacationers take breaks from activities - even when they're enjoyable - to reset the enjoyment.

He offers the example of a massage, and advises that you ask for a break in the middle of your massage because, even though you will have a few minutes less of massage time - the overall experience will be more enjoyable in general.

Galak advises that you should simply 'do less'. If you love to hike - you might feel compelled to hike as much as possible on your trip. The same can be applied to going to the beach or visiting museums (Pictured: a hiking trail in Boulder, Colorado)

Another piece of advice that Galak offers travelers is to limit your choices.

He says that, to avoid the stress of 'choice overload' in planning, once you find a good option for a hotel or a flight to simply book it before becoming overwhelmed by the many different choices.

The expert also advises travelers to do something uncomfortable during vacations - because it will be a memorable unique experience, as opposed to choosing the straightforward and safe option.

Instead of hopping in a taxi, navigate the public transportation system - or leave your phone in the hotel while you explore the city to really get to know it without the safety of mapping apps and search engines.

Overall, Galak says that a vacation will be more enjoyable you plan less, do less of what you like, take breaks from enjoying yourself and actively choose to do things that will make you uncomfortable - even though all of these things are counterintuitive.
An award-winning stamp expert was unfairly fired by the auction house where he worked after he accused a member of the world's oldest philatelic society of sexually harassing him.

Owners of the auctioneers 'engineered' Ben Palmer's dismissal for gross misconduct amid the fallout of his demand not to work with the director of The Royal Philatelic Society, an employment tribunal found.

Dr Greg Spring and wife Susan 'contrived' board minutes and made up emails of complaint about the world renowned expert to try and force him out, it was heard.

Mr Palmer - who has won multiple awards for his own collections or published works - was accused of staging a 'go-slow' after the trio's 'acrimonious' fall-out.

Now, he is in line to receive compensation after an employment judge ruled he was unfairly dismissed in a 'sham' process.

Award-winning stamp expert Ben Palmer (pictured) was unfairly fired by the auction house where he worked after he accused a member of the world's oldest philatelic society of sexually harassing him

The tribunal heard Mr Palmer started working for the Derby-based auction house of, Cavendish Philatelic Auctions - which describes itself as 'International Auctioneers of fine Stamps, Postal History, Related Books and Ephemera' - as a 'Describer' in 2016.

He became a director and still owns half the shares of the company but was sacked for gross misconduct in April 2023.

It was heard his relationship with the Springs was 'largely positive and productive' until the end of 2021.

Things deteriorated after Mr Palmer - who worked from the company's London office - claimed he was sexually harassed by an unnamed director of The Royal Philatelic Society and didn't want the company to deal with him any more.

The central London hearing was told that in 2021, he raised his complaint at the society's AGM but the Springs refused his request.

After being outvoted by the other two directors to continue doing business with his alleged harasser, the panel heard Mr Palmer decided he wanted to leave the business.

In September 2022, shares were estimated to be in the value of up to 220,000 but Dr Spring offered just 80,000 - which Mr Palmer described as 'derisory'.

Amid growing tension between them, in February 2023, Mr Palmer was accused of misconduct for refusing to work from home, 'unsettling staff' by undermining the Springs and 'attempting to frighten them'.

He denied this and said he had actually dealt with the 'largest collection he had ever seen in his career' that month and was not suffering from a 'lack of output'.

The tribunal ruled in favour of Mr Palmer, concluding Dr Spring was 'determined to paint [Mr Palmer] as obstinate, unproductive and deceptive come what may even in the face of plausible explanations'.

The panel found Mr Palmer was working to his contract during the period and 'cataloguing significant collections'.

Queen Elizabeth II is shown stamps of previous British monarchs as she visits the headquarters of the Royal Philatelic society in London on November 26, 2019

In March 2023, Dr Spring accused the stamp expert of being 'determined to destroy all of our hard work' because they had refused to ban 'one single individual for allegations on your part'.

The panel heard he then tried to 'leverage a negotiation position' by threatening to 'wind down' the business and 'destroy all value' in Mr Palmer's shares without notice.

In the March 2023 board meeting minutes, Mr Palmer was accused of staging a 'go-slow' for items in an upcoming auction.

The tribunal heard a series of emails followed from Mrs Spring, their daughter and other members of staff, claiming Mr Palmer had made them feel 'unsafe'.

However, the panel found Dr Spring had 'prompted' these replies.

He then sent Mr Palmer an email containing 23 questions that he wanted answering 'as part of his investigation' after he didn't attend a meeting.

In April 2023 Mr Palmer refused to attend a disciplinary meeting as he believed Dr Spring was determined 'to get me out'.

The disciplinary hearing took place without him and he was subsequently dismissed for gross misconduct and behaviour that had been 'detrimental to the harmonious workplace environment'.

Mr Palmer took the auction house to the tribunal claiming unfair and wrongful dismissal.

Upholding his claim, Employment Judge Ashley Fredericks-Bowyer said the reason he had been sacked was so the Springs could gain full control of the business.

'I have found [Mr Palmer] had a relationship breakdown with Dr Spring and Mrs Spring,' he said.

'Mrs Spring's statements in the disciplinary process are exaggerated and worded beyond an account of the factual conversations to bolster the chances that misconduct could be found against [Mr Palmer].

'I have found that Dr Spring was dishonest in the letter of dismissal where he denied that there had been any prior conflict or disagreement between he and Mr Palmer.'

He said Dr Spring was "clearly bent" on casting Mr Palmer's position as employee misconduct and conducted a "contrived" investigation' in a "sham designed to engineer dismissal".

A remedy hearing to determine his compensation will take place at a later date.
The BBC's comedy boss has called on programme-makers to help 'save' sitcom, saying the industry must 'fight' for UK mainstream comedy to 'exist'.

Jon Petrie, in a speech to the comedy industry, said while situation comedy was not 'dead', it 'needs a couple of Berocca' and a 'black Americano with two sugars'.

Speaking at the BBC Comedy Festival in Glasgow, he said he wanted producers to 'take the risk' and 'create the next generation of classic sitcoms' with 'immortal characters'.

The BBC director of comedy added that 'mainstream comedy' is 'what audiences love best'.

The prominence of the TV sitcom is widely regarded as having faded in modern times, with television executives apparently more focused on drama shows.

Jon Petrie (pictured middle) said while situation comedy was not 'dead', it 'needs a couple of Berocca' and a 'black Americano with two sugars'

In the past sitcoms were responsible for many of the biggest hits on TV, such as Only Fools and Horses and To the Manor Born.

Throughout the years other hit comedies include Fawlty Towers, The Office, The Royle Family and Gavin and Stacey.

Recent sitcom successes include Ghosts and This Country.

As Mr Petrie made his speech, he confirmed the return of family sitcom Outnumbered, for a Christmas special and a new series of Not Going Out, now the longest running UK situation comedy.

In the speech he said: 'If our comedy eco-system is shrinking, then it's on all us to fight for the right of UK mainstream comedy to exist.

'The sitcom isn't dead but it needs a couple of Berocca.

'And a black americano with two sugars. We're asking you to do something really ambitious and help save our sitcom. It's what audiences want to see.'

He added: 'Mainstream comedy is what audiences love best.

'It's written right through our comedy heritage and is so close to our hearts. It can tell our stories and bring us together like nothing else.

'That's why audiences and critics feel so passionately about it and have such a strong sense of ownership.'

Mr Petrie said it wanted producers to created characters that audiences will 'keep returning to for decades to come'.

He said the BBC was still 'not getting pitched enough of the comedy we need to keep people happy' and pointed out he had asked two years ago for more sitcom ideas.

As Mr Petrie made his speech, he confirmed the return of family sitcom Outnumbered, for a Christmas special

The BBC Director of Comedy also confirmed a new series of Not Going Out, now the longest running UK situation comedy

Mr Petrie added that his new commissions pointed the direction the BBC wanted to travel in  'firmly sitcom first, with a high joke rate'.

He said: 'Please send us less shows that are 'an exploration' of something and more that know where their funny bones are.

'We want less 'vital pieces' and 'comfort baths', and more 'toe-curlingly funny', 'gleeful' and 'laugh out loud'.'
Co-founder of The Volte says industry on the edge of collapse

The CEO of a popular luxury brand rental business has revealed why so many designer clothing brands are collapsing in Australia.

Fashion enthusiasts were left shocked when the Australian franchise of renowned fashion label Dion Lee entered administration this week.

It's understood the much-loved brand, worn by mega-stars like Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa, collapsed after a partnership deal with Cue Clothing Co fell through.

It follows the collapse of other fashion giants J. Crew, Neiman Marcus and Brooks Brothers with Farfetch and Net-a-Porter also facing financial strife.

Bernadette Olivier, CEO and co-founder of The Volte - a designer fashion rental marketplace - told Daily Mail Australia the industry was 'teetering on the edge of collapse'.

Ms Olivier said the emergence of Chinese fast fashion powerhouses like Shein and Temu were only adding to the mounting pressure on designer labels.

Bernadette Olivier, CEO and co-founder of The Volte - a designer fashion rental marketplace - warned the fashion industry was 'on the edge of collapse'

A model walks the runway during the Dion Lee Spring 2023 fashion show in 2022

'These new players, with criminally low prices and massive advertising budgets, have left an already fragile industry on the edge of collapse,' she said.

The CEO said a new trend of 'online trying' - where influencers share their hauls with their followers to decide which items to keep - was creating waste.

'The rise of TikTok and the increased popularity of Instagram stories and reels has revealed new consumer habits,' she explained.

'Consumers are turning online shopping into "online trying", often posting their "hauls" to followers to decide which garments to keep while returning the majority.

'Retailers have been slow to identify this trend, and report as much as 50 per cent of inventory sold online is returned, with a significant portion ending up in landfill or incinerated due to cost-effectiveness.'

In the United States, the mismatch in supply and demand has resulted in up to 30 per cent of inventory produced never being sold.

The growing trend is costing the fashion industry up to $US210billion ($AUD318billion), according to the Boston Consulting Group.

'This overproduction not only poses a financial threat but also a rapidly increasing environmental threat globally,' Ms Olivier said.

The CEO said changing customer sentiments, rapid decreases in brand loyalty and increased regulatory costs were also adding to retailer's challengers.

She encouraged brands to use data analytics and AI to forecast their customer's demands which could then be better aligned with production.

Fashion enthusiasts were left shocked when the Australian franchise of renowned fashion label Dion Lee entered administration this week (Designer Dion Lee is pictured in 2023)

It's understood the Australian franchise of Dion Lee collapsed after a partnership deal fell through with only the operations of Australian stores affected

'Enhanced development of virtual try-ons, accurate sizing, descriptions, and imagery, and using AI to offer personalised recommendations based on previous purchases can reduce returns,' she said.

Ms Olivier said it was important for brands to embrace the circular economy - with the resale economy growing 10 times faster than the traditional apparel industry.

'Part of the integration must allow brands to earn from these new business models, enabling retailers to generate revenue aside from producing and selling more garments,' she said.

Antony Resnick, a liquidator from insolvency firm dVT Group, was appointed as the administrator for the Australian arm of Dion Lee.

Major clothing label Cue Clothing Co reportedly ended its partnership agreement with Dion Lee and also cancelled its investment in the business.

Cue Clothing Co first became a partner with Dion Lee more than a decade ago and the company was a shareholder in the business, The Australian reports.

Only the operations of the Australian stores are understood to have been affected and customers are still able to access the website of the company.

The company, founded in 2009, has six stores in Australia and 160 outlets worldwide, including a store in the US which opened in December last year.
Underworld figure Suleiman 'Sam' Abdulrahim has survived another assassination attempt as police investigate whether he was lured outside his home before he was shot at in an attempted gangland hit.

The shooting outside the Melbourne home of Abdulrahim, a professional boxer known as 'The Punisher', is suspected to be the latest development in the city's underworld tobacco wars.

It's understood shots were fired outside Abdulrahim's home in Larch St, at Thomastown in the city's north, about 3.15am on Friday morning.

Victoria Police said detectives from the armed crime squad are currently investigating the shooting.

'Police are working to establish the exact circumstances of the incident and investigations are ongoing,' police said.

Underworld figure Suleiman 'Sam' Abdulrahim (pictured) has survived another suspected assassination attempt following a shooting outside his Melbourne home

Neighbours reportedly heard the commotion before the offenders fled the scene.

Abdulrahim, 32, escaped serious injury but it's believed officers are investigating whether he was purposely led out of his home to be executed.

The shooting followed another serious attempt on Abdulrahim's life in 2022 and a recent spate of tobacco shop fires across Melbourne.

It's suspected illegal tobacco syndicates are responsible for 75 arson attacks since March last year, 49 of which were directed at tobacco shops.

On June 25, 2022, Abdulrahim was peppered with bullets near Fawkner Memorial Park in Melbourne's north during his cousin's funeral procession - sparking fears Melbourne's underworld was set to explode in a wave of violence.

He was shot eight times, including four bullets in the chest, suffering severe damage to his lungs, kidneys and liver.

At the time, Detective Inspector Mark Hatt said there was 'significant concern' among the local community of a potential crime explosion.

In 2022, Abdulrahim was peppered with bullets near Fawkner Memorial Park in Melbourne's north during his cousin's funeral procession on June 25

The shooting follows a series of tobacco shop fires across Melbourne, which illegal tobacco syndicates are suspected of organising

'We understand that incidents such as this one cause significant concern across the broader community,' he said.

'Rest assured; the indiscriminate use of illicit firearms remains a key focus for Victoria Police. We are committed to targeting those involved in this type of offending and holding them to account.'

Anyone with information or CCTV is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

More to come.
Dean Jennifer Lucero has presided over exodus of Asian students since 2020

A DEI-fixated dean at UCLA's world-famous medical school has allowed standards to plummet by discriminating against white and Asian applicants, it is claimed.

The David Geffen School of Medicine in Los Angeles boasts Nobel Prize winners on its faculty and accepts just 173 students out of the 14,000 who apply to it each year.

But it has plunged from sixth to 18th place in the rankings since the appointment of Jennifer Lucero as dean of admissions in June 2020 amid claims that the admissions bar for underrepresented minorities is now 'as low as you could possibly imagine'.

'All the normal criteria for getting into medical school only apply to people of certain races,' an admissions officer told the Washington Free Beacon. Lucerno has been accused of flouting California's affirmative action ban and hindering the career of a highly-qualified doctor because he is a white man.

'For other people, those criteria are completely disregarded.' Among the disturbing anecdotes shared are of a student lashing out in an operating room and accusing a surgeon of picking on her after being asked to locate a major artery - a basic medical request.

UCLA Medical school dean Jennifer Lucero has been accused of over a collapse in standards since her appointment in 2020 amid allegations of affirmative action

Lucero, pictured left, is described as someone who 'participates actively in the recruitment of underrepresented students to the profession of medicine'

The number of students failing tests on basic medical knowledge has increased 10-fold in some subjects since 2020, the Free Beacon reported.

And a majority of students are now flunking standardized tests on emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics among some cohorts.

The collapse in standards has turned the institution into a 'failed medical school' according to one former member of the admissions staff.

Admitting students on racial criteria has been banned in California since 1996 and outlawed federally since a Supreme Court ruling last year.

But faculty at the school said that Lucero has ignored bans on affirmative action and allegedly told colleagues she wanted a highly qualified white male candidate pushed down the residency rank list because 'we have too many of his kind'.

Business was suspended for the day in 2021 when a Native American applicant was rejected and a furious Lucero made committee members sit through a two-hour lecture on indigenous history delivered by her own sister.

She is accused of stuffing the 25-strong admissions committee with her hand-picked members and terrorizing dissenters into silence by implying they are racist and threatening them with diversity training sessions.

'We were always outnumbered,' an admissions officer told the website.

'Other people would get upset when we brought up GPA.'

First-year students were required to sit through a lecture by Hamas-supporting homeless campaigner Lisa Gray-Garcia who demanded students kneel and pray to 'mama Earth'.

Gray-Garcia slammed Israel just hours after Hamas killed 1,200 people on October 7 expressed support for Palestine, but none for the murdered Israelis

Two members recalled Lucero becoming incensed at an admissions meeting in November 2021 when members voiced doubts about a black candidate with grades way below the usual standard

'Did you not know African-American women are dying at a higher rate than everybody else?' she raged.

'We need people like this in the medical school.'

Her arrival in June 2020 - shortly after the murder of George Floyd - coincided with an overhaul of the school's curriculum which cut pre-clinical training from two years to one, to free up time for 'community service'.

Floyd's killing at the hands of Minneapolis cop Derek Chauvin sparked a huge surge in diversity, equity and inclusion programs, with Lucerno this week being held up as an example of the ideaology going very wrong.

Now students spend seven hours a week on 'Foundations of Practice' which includes modules on 'interpersonal communication skills', described by one student as 'telling us how to be a good person'.

They are also required to spend at least three hours of fortnight in a class on 'Structural Racism and Health Equity'.

That has featured lectures from a Hamas-supporting homeless campaigner who demanded students kneel with her on the floor and pray to 'mama Earth'.

Lisa Gray-Garcia led students in a chant of 'Free, Free Palestine' during her two-hour presentation in March, to the visible discomfort of Jewish students.

She later posted an account of the class on her social media pages in which she denounced the 'myth of clean', and what she described as 'HELLthcare'.

Another compulsory part of the curriculum is now an essay by self-proclaimed 'fat liberationist' Marquisele Mercedes, who claims that 'fatphobia is medicine's status quo' and that weight loss is a 'hopeless endeavor'.

All first year medical students at UCLA are required to read an essay by Marquisele Mercedes (pictured), a self-proclaimed 'fat liberationist' who claims that 'fatphobia is medicine's status quo' and that weight loss is a 'hopeless endeavor'

Mercedes has also led presentations on how does 'anti-fatness show up in the work you do' - which she says includes using 'fear-mongering language in order to encourage healthy eating and physical activity'

Jeffrey Flier, a former dean of Harvard Medical School and one of the world's foremost experts on obesity, said the course amounted to malpractice and promoted 'extensive and dangerous misinformation'.

'This is a profoundly misguided view of obesity, a complex medical disorder with major adverse health consequences for all racial and ethnic groups,' he added.

Lucero's tenure has coincided with an exodus of Asian students whose numbers fell by almost a third between 2019 and 2022.

And the students that remain have become increasingly entitled about their ignorance with one professor reporting that he was berated by a student in the operating room who accused him of putting her on the spot when she could not identify a major artery.

Jeffrey Flier(pictured), the former dean of Harvard Medical School and one of the world's foremost experts on obesity, slammed the course and said the curriculum 'promotes extensive and dangerous misinformation'

'I don't know how some of these students are going to be junior doctors,' a colleague said.

'Faculty are seeing a shocking decline in knowledge of medical students.

'UCLA still produces some very good graduates,' another added.

'But a third to a half of the medical school is incredibly unqualified.'

Lucero also serves as Vice Chair of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the school's anesthesia department where she has resisted efforts to withhold racial identities from admission committees insisting 'we are not required to blind any information'.

The university's discrimination prevention office has received several complaints about her conduct in the last year but concluded that none merit an investigation.

The school's structural racism class is under review and experts warned the Beacon that the university was leaving itself open to a legal challenge.

Adam Mortara was a lead trial lawyer in the Students for Fair Admissions vs Harvard case which saw the Supreme Court outlaw affirmative action last year.

'You can't have evidence of overt discrimination like this and not have someone come forward,' he told the website.

And dissent is starting is starting to make itself felt with faculty members warning that the reputation of the institution itself is now on the line.

'This has been a colossal failure,' one professor wrote on a forum last month.

'The new curriculum is not working and the students are grossly unprepared for clinical rotations.'

The school has slipped from sixth 18th place in the rankings since Lucero's appointment

'The faculty I work with have noticed a dramatic decrease in the knowledge of the medical students.'

Another noted the fear of how patients would fare at the hands of their underqualified students.

'We have asked for metrics on how these folks actually do,' one admissions officer said.

'None of that is ever divulged to us.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to the medical school for comment.
Donald Trump campaigned before thousands of fans in one of the most heavily Democratic and non-white areas of the US on Thursday in a push to do what his critics believe is unthinkable: Win New York in 2024.

The rally crowd in the South Bronx's Crotona Park extended far beyond the 3,500 slated to appear, and thousands were forced to wait outside the fenced in area hoping to catch a glimpse of the 45th president.

Worryingly for the Democrats, the rally was packed with black and Hispanic people - two groups who Joe Biden has been accused of taking for granted - and who make up most of the population of the surrounding area.

As Trump fights to win minority voters, the real estate mogul delivered an hour-and-a-half speech about the decline of a city he loves - vowing to 'make New York City great again' and be the first Republican to win the state since Ronald Reagan in 1984.

'Everyone wanted to be here,' he told the crowd who waited for six hours to hear Trump. 'But sadly this is now a city in decline.'

'But if a New Yorker can't save this country, no-one can'

He also brought on stage rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow. Trump admired the dazzling diamond 'grills' on their teeth, with the bling-loving Republican joking he wanted to get one for himself.

At one point during Trump claimed that immigrants from Africa, the Middle East and elsewhere were 'building an army' to attack Americans 'from within.'

Former President Donald Trump drew an estimated crowd of 25,000 people to his rally in the Bronx on Thursday afternoon. This snap helps show the size of the crowd

An enthusiastic support of presidential candidate Donald Trump shows her patriotic support at his Bronx rally on Thursday afternoon

At his Thursday afternoon rally in the Bronx, Donald Trump brought on stage rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow (pictured center and right) so that they might offer him their endorsement before a cheering crowd

As the two musicians mounted the stage to address Trump and the crowd, the former president couldn't help but compliment Sheff G's incredibly shiny grill.

'Oh I like that, I want to get that done,' Trump said as he shook hands with Sheff G, reacting immediately to the musician's glistening mouth.

Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow hopped on stage to a cheering crowd and briefly addressed the massive group.

Sheff G said into the microphone: 'One thing I want to say, they're always going to whisper your wins and shout your failures.

'Trump's gonna shout the wins for all of us,' he added.

Sleepy Hallow simply said: 'Make America Great Again,' which was met with uproarious applause.

As Trump thanked the gentlemen for their endorsements, he once again focused on on Sheff G's grill.

'Thank you very much,' he said to the rappers. 'I like those teeth. I want to find out where you did that.'

'I got to get my teeth like that. I want that to happen to me,' he added, as the pair made their way off the stage.

Sheff G was recently released from prison, where he spent fourteen months for charges related to gang activity - Sleepy Hallow was indicted along with 30 others for the same charges.

Sheff G previously spent two years in prison after pleading guilty to criminal possession of a weapon in 2021.

Crowds pack into lines in between the barriers waiting to get in - including one person holding a sign saying 'Trump hates you'

The Republican nominee delivered a speech about the Big Apple for more than ninety minutes, in which he reminisced fondly about his time as a real estate mogul before his foray into politics. 'Together we are going to make New York City great again,' he said

One Trump supporter brought his two young daughters out on the Thursday ahead of the long weekend, to show familial support for the former POTUS

Classic MAGA outfits were seen in the crowd, including the famous/infamous merch of Trump's mugshot orchestrated by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office

Some of the MAGA support came in totally original forms, like this aggressive MAGA neck tattoo spotted in the crowd

A group of pro-Palestinian staged a protest during the rally at the entrance as NYPD police took measures

Trump became the first Republican presidential nominee to campaign in the Bronx since Ronald Reagan showed up more than 40 years ago.

The Republican nominee delivered a speech about the Big Apple for more than ninety minutes, in which he reminisced fondly about his time as a real estate mogul before his foray into politics.

'Together we are going to make New York City great again,' Trump said.

'If a New Yorker can't save this country, no one can.'

The former New Yorker and current resident of Florida said: 'Who said we're not going to win New York? We're going to win New York!'

The former Apprentice host railed against Biden on immigration, an issue Trump has made central to his campaign.

He insisted 'the biggest negative impact' of the influx of migrants in New York is 'against our Black population and our Hispanic population who are losing their jobs, losing their housing, losing everything they can lose.'

Some in the crowd responded by chanting, 'Build the wall,' a reference to Trump's push while in the White House to build a U.S.-Mexico border barrier.

'The strategy is to demonstrate to the voters of the Bronx and New York that this isn't your typical presidential election, that Donald Trump is here to represent everybody and get our country back on track,' said Florida Republican Rep. Byron Donalds, a potential Trump running mate who grew up in Brooklyn and spoke at the rally.

The former president attracted a crowd in the tens of thousands to the Bronx park on a slightly humid afternoon ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

The diverse crowd that showed up to support the Republican nominee suggest that perhaps he has made some inroads with the black and Hispanic voting blocks that Democrats have long relied upon

Police officers keep watch at a campaign rally by former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate

Trump spoke to crowds of supporters at Crotona Park Thursday afternoon. The Republican nominee is looking to woo black and Hispanic voters away from President Joe Biden ahead of this November

Lines formed early to get into the rally. Even after the event began, thousands and thousands of people were seen lining up outside the fenced-in event just for a shot to get inside

A supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump wears a pair of Trump sneakers outside of the campaign rally

Trump, himself a former Democrat, faces an uphill battle to win New York, with recent polls showing the president about nine points ahead of his challenger in the Empire State.

But supporters of Trump point to his surprise 2016 election victory as evidence that anything is possible.

In 1984, incumbent President Ronald Reagan became the last Republican to win New York in the last half-century. He had also achieved victory in the state in the 1980 presidential election, and prior to that, Richard Nixon won the state in 1972.

The vibe for those in the crowd, and those waiting in line, was celebratory despite the humidity and threat of rain. Music blared, flags waved and plenty of pro-Trump signage could be seen.

The former-president stumped in the city's outer borough as he looks to woo black and Hispanic voters away from Biden ahead of this November.

Trump told the crowd he would work with the city's Democratic mayor, local officials and governor, if reelected.

The former president opened his rally with an ode to his hometown, talking about its humble beginnings as a small Dutch trading post before becoming a glamorous capital of culture that 'inspired the entire world.'

While Trump established residency in Florida in 2019, he reminisced on Thursday about his efforts to revitalize Central Park's Wollman Rink and people he knew in the real estate business.

Throughout his campaign, Trump has repeatedly used incendiary language to accuse immigrants in the U.S. illegally of fueling violent crime, calling them 'animals' responsible for 'poisoning the blood' of the country

A Trump supporter waits in line to catch glimpse of the 45th president

A Trump supporter seen at Crotona Park in the South Bronx on Thursday evening

'Everyone wanted to be here,' he told the enthusiastic audience. 'But sadly this is now a city in decline.'

'If a New Yorker can't save this country,' he went on to say, 'no one can.'

Hours before Trump's rally was set to begin, a long line of supporters decked out in red 'Make America Great Again' hats and other Trump gear snaked around the park, waiting for security screening to begin.

People were still entering the park well into Trump's speech, with some eager supporters sprinting up a hill toward the rally site after getting through security.

The Bronx Democratic Party protested Trump's appearance with its own event at the park.

Members of multiple unions were present, holding signs that said 'The Bronx says no to Trump' in both English and Spanish.

'We are used to elected officials, to government officials, to opportunists of all kinds who come to our community and use our painful history,' said Democratic State Rep. Amanda Septimo, who represents the South Bronx.

'They talk about the Bronx and everything that's wrong with it, but they never get to the part that talks about what they're going to do for the Bronx and we know that Trump is never going to get to that part in his speech.'

Roughly 55% of Bronx County residents are Hispanic and about one-third are Black, and the crowd on Thursday was more racially mixed than his usual rallies, which are predominantly white

Recent polls suggest the Trump is gaining ground with Blacks and Hispanics, who were critical to Biden's win in 2020

Trump strategists see a chance to grab enough of their votes to make the difference in swing states in November

Biden has had a flurry of actions and events focused on bolstering support among African American voters

In a New York Times/Siena College poll in March, Trump was selected by 23% of Black and 46% of Hispanic respondents in a one-on-one matchup with Biden

Political analysts have attributed weakening support for Biden among voters of color in part to the outsized impact of inflation on people living paycheck to paycheck

But some locals in the crowd Thursday disagreed.

Margarita Rosario, a 69-year-old who has lived in the borough for more than 60 years, said she saw Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York on television the night before suggesting that the Bronx wouldn't support Trump.

It spurred her to show up, holding a Trump flag and a poster that said, 'Make America Great Again.'

'I got so annoyed with that. I said, 'How dare she speak for the whole Bronx?' Rosario said.

Muhammad Ali, a 50-year-old who lives in the Bronx and said he planned to vote for Trump in November, said he once used to think the former president was a racist but his views have changed.

'We need a patriotic president at the moment and I find Donald Trump more patriotic for the moment than Joe Biden,' said Ali, an immigrant from Bangladesh and worker for New York's transportation agency.

At least one New Yorker in the crowd said he knew Trump from his days as a local billionaire real estate developer.

Alfredo Rosado, 62, said he'd been a Trump supporter since 1998 when he worked for several months as a fill-in summer doorman at Trump's Trump Tower building.

Rosado recounted how Trump had asked his name and stopped to chat. 'He's the same person you see,' he said of the former president.

Trump's decision to speak in the Bronx was in part a matter of convenience. His campaign schedule has been crimped by his trial in New York on charges he falsified business records to hide a hush money payment to a porn star

In April, he made a campaign appearance at a convenience store in Harlem, New York

'We are not going to let these people come in and take our city away from us and take our country away,' Trump said, vowing to carry out 'the largest criminal deportation operation in our country's history' if re-elected to the White House

Trump also sought to tie record levels of migrants caught crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally with the economic plight of Black and Hispanic voters, arguing, without evidence, that migrants were taking their jobs

Reuters interviewed nine Hispanic and Black rally attendees who said they will vote for Trump in 2024. Of the seven who were voting age in 2020, six voted for Trump

Trump's campaign believes he can chip away at Biden's support among Black and Hispanic voters, particularly younger men who may not follow politics closely, but are frustrated by their economic situations and drawn to Trump's tough-guy persona.

Biden's campaign on Thursday released two ads aimed at undercutting Trump's attempts to make inroads with Black voters

They highlighted his propagation of the 'birther' conspiracy against former President Barack Obama and his calls for the death penalty for five men wrongly convicted of rape in the 1989 Central Park Five case.

A radio ad fictionalizing a conversation between a Trump campaign volunteer and a black voter will air on national black radio stations while a shorter television spot will air in major cities, in swing states and on digital platforms, aiming to reach voters in the Bronx near Trump's rally.

The Bronx happens to be the bluest county in the US. Biden won it with more than 83 percent of the vote in 2020. Trump earned less than 16 percent. In 2016, Trump fared even worse, earning less than 10 percent of the borough's support.

But the ex-president is campaigning hard across the Big Apple, while he's stuck in town for his Manhattan hush money trial.

In recent weeks, he's made stops at a firehouse, a construction site, and a bodega.

But the Bronx rally was his first event open to the general public as he insists he is making a play to win an overwhelmingly Democratic state.

Besides creating a spectacle of rallygoers and protesters, the rally also gave Trump an opportunity to highlight what he argues are advantages on economic and immigration issues that could cut into key Democratic voting blocs.

A wide range of Trump supporters were visible from far and wide as enthusiasm bubbled over

Cheers periodically erupted throughout Trump's 90-minute speech, which began to bleed into sunset

Some of the outfits were exciting - others bordered on insane, but most were whimsical

Celebrity guests included a handful of entertainers, and, apparently, ex-congressman and ardent Trump supporter George Santos (right)

Trump is currently facing 34 felony counts of falsifying business records over the payment to porn star Stormy Daniels.

Closing arguments are slated to begin when court resumes on Tuesday.

Trump supporters at the rally told Dailymail.com that they don't especially care abut the criminal trial and haven't been paying attention to the testimony on either side of the case.

Thursday was also Trump's first rally since former GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley said last Friday that she would vote for Trump. Her tacit endorsement came months after dropping out of the primary during which she attacked her former boss mercilessly. But Trump made no mention of his one-time rival.

As he wrapped up his speech, Trump said he woke up Thursday uncertain of the reception he'd get in the Bronx.

'I said, 'I wonder, will it be hostile or will it be friendly?' he said. 'It was beyond friendly. It was a lovefest.'
His trial for the murder of Kalman Tal has been suspended

A fruit picker facing a murder trial after it was alleged he used a circular saw to amputate the leg of another man has had his charge suspended at the last minute.

John Yalu, 29, allegedly killed Innisfail farm labourer and grandfather Kalman Tal, 66, when he removed his leg with a circular saw at 3.48am on February 19, 2022.

Mr Yalu, originally from Vanuatu, was referred to a mental health court on Friday at the request of his lawyer Michael Rodrigues at Cairns' Supreme Court.

Justice James Henry had already disapproved of how long the case was taking by the time Mr Rodrigues requested a translator and change of courts for his client.

The Queensland Mental Health Act 2016 enables criminal proceedings to be suspended for weeks at a time if any reference is made to the Mental Health Court.

The charge against John Yalu, 29, has been suspended as the matter is considered by the Mental Health Court in Queensland

Mr Yalu, from Vanuatu, is accused of murdering grandfather and farmer Kalman Tal (pictured), 66, by amputating his leg with a circular saw and leaving him to bleed out on February 19, 2022

The chief psychiatrist can deem any defendants they suspect to be of an unsound mind unfit for trial before referring them to the Mental Health Court.

Police allege that Mr Yalu amputated Mr Tal's leg at the knee using a circular power saw after the pair had driven to Fitzgerald Park in the centre of Innisfail, 90km south of Cairns, and sat underneath a tree together.

Mr Tal's body was found by pedestrians on Fitzgerald Esplanade at 4:23am on Saturday, February 19.

Police believe Mr Tal and Mr Yalu laid out a blue tarpaulin before the grandfather injected himself with a sedative.

As a result of an alleged exchange of $5,000, police claim Mr Tal brought his own battery-charged table saw for Mr Yalu to cut off Mr Tals leg at the knee.

The Queensland Mental Health Act 2016 allows cases to be suspended if any reference is made to the Mental Health Court, which Mr Yalu's lawyer, Michael Rodrigues, had done

Mr Yalu then helped Mr Tal back to his car and left soon afterwards, with the pensioner leaving the vehicle some time later before he was discovered.

Paramedics could not revive Mr Tal who is believed to have died from cardiac arrest due to exsanguination, or bleeding out.

His distraught family broke their silence to Daily Mail Australia, saying Mr Tal was a 'lovely man' but had been 'ill' and 'desperate' prior to his death.

It later emerged that he had been likely suffering from a condition known as 'body integrity dysphoria' in which the sufferer does not feel a psychological connection with a particular body part, and feels an obsessive desire to remove it.

Mr Yalu is no longer in correctional service custody and the suspension of his case can be revoked at any time upon the direction of the chief psychiatrist or once the Mental Health Court makes a decision on the referred matter.

One possibility is that the prosecution of Mr Yalu may be discontinued.
A Netflix executive made the mistake of renting her $1.8 million Los Angeles home to a musician who then allegedly illegally turned it into an Airbnb and stopped paying rent.

Nikeeta Sriram, 31, works as a commerce strategy and growth product executive at Netflix having graduated from Harvard Business School a few years ago.

She moved to Los Angeles to take on the job in 2021, and took advantage of low housing prices during the pandemic in 2022 by buying a home in the sought-after Mid-Wilshire area for $1.675million. It is now worth over $1.8m.

However, Sriram was already tied in a lease at the time and decided to rent out her new property until she was ready to move in, she told the LA Times.

The homeowner says she has now become wrapped up in a never-ending ordeal with her nightmare tenant, a touring musician currently singing in British pubs. She says he has turned the rental into a money-making Airbnb scheme that raked in over $215,000, while recently refusing to pay her rent

Nikeeta Sriram, 31, works as a commerce strategy and growth product executive at Netflix having graduated from Harvard Business School a few years ago

Nicholas Jarzabek, better known to his fans as Nick Driver, is a touring musician currently singing in British pubs (pictured)

Nicholas Jarzabek, better known to his fans as Nick Driver, was initially denied when he applied to rent Sriram's property as she opted for another pair of men who worked for a start-up.

However, when the company failed in August 2022, the pair moved out and Sriram was once again on the hunt for a renter. Jarzabek applied again - and Sriram recognized the name from his initial bid to rent the property.

'I didn't think anything of it at the time. I figured he just really liked the house,' Sriram told The LA Times.

'But it's obviously suspicious in hindsight,' she said. 'Most renters are trying to move on a specific timeline, and you don't see people applying for the same house three months apart.'

At first glance, Jarzabek came across as a reliable tenant - with $1million in the bank, a white Tesla and shiny Rolex on his wrist.

'He talked about the house nicely and offered to put rugs down so he wouldn't scratch the floors,' Sriram said. 'He said he'd treat it like it was his own.'

And he did treat it like it was his own. It soon became clear that Jarzabek had set his sights on Sriram's house because it was the perfect candidate for a successful Airbnb.

Sriram took advantage of low housing prices during the pandemic in 2022 by buying a home (pictured) in the sought-after Mid-Wilshire area for $1.675million. The house, pictured, is now worth $1.8 million

Nicholas Jarzabek, better known to his fans as Nick Driver, allegedly turned the Los Angeles home he was renting into an Airbnb and pocketed the income from the listings

The property had two homes, which meant two Airbnbs for the price of one. There was a two-story, three-bedroom main house and a one-bedroom back house with a loft.

After the walk-through tour of the home, Sriram never saw Jarzabek again - but she claims he eventually became a very prominent pest in her daily life.

For the first year of his tenancy, Jarzabek caused little trouble. He paid the $8,500 rent every month and didn't demand repairs.

'He seemed like a very responsible tenant, but now I know it's because he wanted me to never come to the property,' Sriram said.

However, 16 months down the line Jarzabek's Airbnb listings of the property were exposed on December 29, 2023, when the ADT alarm was triggered so many times in a row that the police were automatically called to the property.

Sriram called ADT and they told her that the police notified them that Airbnb guests had triggered the alarm.

At first Sriram and her boyfriend, actor Peter Banachowski, thought that there was a mix-up, but upon checking Airbnb she saw her property on offer.

The main house was listed for $688 per night, while the back house was listed for $496 per night, according to Airbnb listings in the eviction lawsuit she later filed.

It was listed on Airbnb under an account named Rich Jacobs - though it's unclear whether that name is an alias or whether Jarzabek contacted someone to act as a 'host' for the property on his behalf.

The host disguised the home to keep it hidden from Sriram, firstly by not using any exterior pictures - only uploading a picture of the nearby Grove shopping mall followed by snaps of the house's interiors.

Next, by providing a fake address to Airbnb users, initially telling them that the property was at 1830 S. La Brea Ave, which is actually the address for a motel called the Starlight Inn which is a mile away from the house.

The houses did well on Airbnb, with the larger home earning 4.76 stars out of five and the guest house scoring a 4.46.

However, written reviews of the home raised concerns. 'Easy to find once the correct address was found, Air BNB listed a different address than [was sent] by the owner,' one renter said.

'The host adopted a very nasty and aggressive tone with us when we had difficulty learning how to cancel on your website,' said another guest

After learning of Jarzabek's scheme, Sriram tried to confront her tenant over the phone. He told her to contact his lawyer.

At first glance, Jarzabek came across as a reliable tenant - with $1million in the bank, a white Tesla and shiny Rolex

Taking matters into her own hands, Sriram set out a plan to confront him in person by renting out the Airbnb for herself so that she could communicate with him via the website's chat function.

'STOP RELISTING THIS PROPERTY. You are not authorized to sublease this property!' she wrote.

As the drama continued and the houses were taken off Airbnb and then re-listed, Sriram filed for an eviction through the L.A. Superior Court. In April, she filed a cease and desist to Jarzabek's attorney.

But while Sriram struggles to navigate through the complicated laws of property rights, her house continues to be rented out on Airbnb.

Airbnb didn't offer any help to Sriram - so she once again took matters into her own hands by showing up to the property whenever it appeared to have bookings (information she gathered through the website directly).

She would explain the situation to the guests, who were mostly understanding but naturally frustrated by the situation.

'I felt terrible. I didn't want to ruin their vacations,' Sriram said. 'But this is our only recourse since Airbnb provided no help to us.'

As part of her eviction lawsuit, Sriram subpoenaed Airbnb for information on Jarzabek. She discovered that, although he communicated with her using a New York area code, the number registered to his Airbnb account had a +44 code, which is the area code for the United Kingdom.

She also gained insight on his profits through the subpoena, and learned that over 16 months of his Airbnb stint, the listing generated $215,954 in payouts, which is an average of around $14,500 a month.

'If the city can't figure out how to crack down on Airbnb, it should err on the side of caution and ban the platform until it can build a task force to manage it,' Sriram said. 'The current solution is to let havoc ensue and see what happens.'

After spending months fighting legal battles, Sriram finally had her unlawful detainer lawsuit approved recently - which allows her to move forward with evicting Jarzabek.

This can only be carried out by a sheriff, and the LA County Sheriff's department is currently backed up with eviction requests and have a three month wait.

Sriram and Banachowski could sue Jarzabek for damages, given that the homeowners estimates she has lost $100,000 since the beginning of the year, but suing someone in a different country is a complex and expensive process.

'Nick Diver,' as Jarzabek is known by in the music world, has around 6,000 followers on Instagram and 785 followers on popular music streaming platform Spotify

'His Instagram shows that he has tour dates in pubs across the U.K.,' Banachowski said. 'I understand why we have eviction protections for people in L.A., but why is it illegal for us to get our house back from a guy who's not even in the country?'

'Nick Diver,' as Jarzabek is known by in the music world, has around 6,000 followers on Instagram and 785 followers on popular music streaming platform Spotify.

His most recent album, Black Liquorice, was released in 2023 and features a song ironically titled 'Life of Crime,' as well as others including 'Terrifying Me' and 'I Pretend to Know Too Much.'

Jarzabeck's recent Instagram posts show him gallivanting about in London and Paris - all the while he continues to rent out Sriram's home on Airbnb and ghost her attemps of communication.

DailyMail.com reached out to Jarzabek for comment on his social media, and are yet to hear from the musician.
By Kim Hyun-bin

British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks stressed the strengthening ties between Korea and the U.K. during an event to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III held in Seoul, Thursday.

The Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III event took place at the British ambassadors residence in central Seoul, bringing together ambassadors of various countries as well as government and company officials of the two nations.

This evening to celebrate not only the official birthday of his majesty the king but also the vibrant friendship between the U.K. and Korea, Crooks said during his welcome speech.

Reflecting on the past year's diplomatic milestones, Crooks highlighted the significance of President Yoon Suk Yeol's state visit to the U.K. last year.

"President Yoon Suk Yeol paid an historic state visit to the U.K. last November at the invitation of King Charles. During the visit, the president and Prime Minister (Rishi) Sunak signed the Downing Street Accord. This marked the beginning of a new global strategic partnership," Crooks said.

In the accord, the leaders of the two nations agreed to elevate diplomatic relations to a global strategic partnership, so that the two countries can deepen cooperation across all fields.

The ambassador further emphasized the deepening bilateral collaboration, citing the recent AI Seoul Summit as a testament to their strong partnership.

"The U.K.'s co-hosting of this week's AI Seoul Summit is the latest example, and I was thrilled by the surprise appearance of our friends BLACKPINK at the palace to receive MBEs (Member of the Order of the British Empire) from the king in recognition of their contribution to the fight against climate change, another flourishing area of U.K.-Korea cooperation."

Crooks also highlighted the embassy's commitment to emphasize diversity and equality.

"This year, the embassy is placing particular emphasis on our role as a champion of diversity and equality. We believe in the power of inclusivity to unlock the potential of everyone in the U.K. and Korea  of women, ethnic and religious minorities, the LGBT community and of those with disabilities."

Concluding his speech, Crooks raised a toast to the enduring friendship between the two nations, saying, "I would like to raise a toast to U.K.-Korea friendship and to his excellency President Yoon. Cheers!
Teeth linked to allegedly murdered camper Russell Hill were located in bushland, a jury has been told, as his accused killer admitted he burned the bodies of Mr Hill and his lover Carol Clay with kerosene.

Former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn is facing trial in Victoria's Supreme Court after pleading not guilty to killing the elderly couple while camping in the state's remote High Country in March 2020.

Prosecutors allege he murdered the pair, likely following a dispute with Mr Hill, while the former Jetstar captain argues the pair died accidentally after Mr Hill swiped his gun in the evening of March 20.

Last week, the jury was told Mr Lynn did not dispute burning their campsite and removing their bodies from the scene.

Childhood sweethearts, Carol Clay and Russell Hill, vanished on a camping trip. Picture: Supplied

He also admitted to disposing of the remains in bushland along the Union Spur track near Dargo, returning in November the same year to burn the bodies.

Prosecutors, led by Daniel Porceddu, argued his actions were an 'implied admission' of guilt, while his barrister, Dermot Dann KC, said his client had made a 'series of terrible choices' fearing he would be wrongly blamed.

Damaged teeth linked to Mr Hill

On Thursday, forensic odontologist Dr Lyndall Smythe said she was asked to examine five burnt teeth and a porcelain bridge located alongside bone fragments in late 2021.

She said she received records from Mr Hill and Mrs Clay's dentists to compare the teeth to.

Mrs Clay, she said, had a full set of teeth apart from her wisdom teeth, while Mr Hill only had nine teeth present.

Prosecutors allege he murdered the pair, likely following a dispute with Mr Hill, while the former Jetstar captain (pictured) argues the pair died accidentally after Mr Hill swiped his gun in the evening of March 20

The jury heard he had a full denture prosthesis replacing his upper teeth and was missing many from his bottom set, where he also had a porcelain bridge.

Dr Smythe said her opinion was that all the teeth located had come from Mr Hill, but two - a molar and premolar - were able to be matched to his records.

She said there was 'quite significant' damage due to fire, including loss of the crowns and fragmentation.

The bridge, Dr Smythe said, was a match for Mr Hill's dental records, but could not be definitively linked.

Campsite set on fire with petrol

On Wednesday, forensic officer George Xydias gave evidence he was asked by police to examine the charred remains of Mr Hill and Mrs Clay's camp on April 1, 2020.

He said part of his job was to look for 'things that could potentially cause ignition'.

Photos taken by former Maffra police officer Madeline Rachford of Russell Hill and Carol Clay's destroyed campsite. Picture: Supplied/ Supreme Court of Victoria

In his opinion, the jury was told, a single fire began in the tent near where two gas bottles were located.

Burnt items including a camping stove, clothing, bedding, gas bottles, a solar panel and a car mirror were identified within the tent.

Mr Xydias agreed there Mr Lynn's account of placing their camping equipment in the body of the tent before setting it ablaze with petrol was 'consistent' with the evidence.

A detective told the jury he found the tent 'totally destroyed'. Picture: Supplied/ Supreme Court of Victoria

Fire damaged items were located at Russell Hill and Carol Clay's campsite. Picture: Supplied/ Supreme Court of Victoria

Raked from the ashes, the items underwent forensic examination. Picture: Supplied/ Supreme Court of Victoria

Prosecutors allege Mr Hill was killed first, likely after a dispute with Mr Lynn over the former's drone, and Ms Clay was shot dead second as a witness.

They suggested neither posed any threat to Mr Lynn.

Through his barrister, Mr Lynn has claimed Mrs Clay was accidentally killed first as the two men wrestled over his gun.

On his account, Mr Hill died after approaching Mr Lynn with a knife, falling on it accidentally as they fought a second time.

The trial before Justice Michael Croucher continues on Friday.
A father-of-three who was killed in a workplace tragedy this week is being remembered as 'one hell of a man' by his deeply shocked family and friends.

Lachlan Francis died in a farming machinery incident on a sugar cane farm owned by Bundaberg Sugar, near Childers, Queensland at about 8.10pm on Tuesday.

His death, which is being investigated by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ), has traumatised his loved ones and the local community.

'My beautiful brother was one hell of a man, there was never a moment he didn't have us all laughing,' his sister Britt Francis said.

'He was the most beautiful father to his three children. The best son and brother we could have ever asked for.'

Lachlan Francis (right) died in a farming machinery incident on a sugar cane farm owned by Bundaberg Sugar, near Childers, Queensland at about 8.10pm on Tuesday. Mr Francis is pictured with his brother Jack Francis and friend Clay Rees

Mr Francis was especially close to his brother Jack, with their sister saying they 'were joined at the hip'.

Clay Rees said Mr Francis was a great and very close friend.

'If I was stuck in a situation, he would be the first I would ring,' he said.

'He would do anything for me as I would for him. Rest easy, mate. Till we meet again.'

Another of Mr Francis' siblings, Drew, said 'Lachlan was a hardworking family man, brother, father, and partner.

'He was my best mate, closer than a friend. He left his mark in this world, and none of us will ever forget it.'

Bundaberg Sugar expressed its sorrow over the tragedy.

'This employee was a valued member of the Bundaberg Sugar team and our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go to the family, friends, and community,' a spokesperson told the Courier-Mail.

'Our focus is on the employee's family and ensuring they are well supported at this incredibly difficult time.

'We will also ensure this support extends to our employees who were directly involved in the incident.

'We are taking steps to understand what has happened and are working closely with the relevant authorities.'

The Queensland Police are preparing a report for the coroner.

Clay Rees, Jack Francis, Mitch Zunker and Code Mciver are pictured having a drink in Lachlan Francis' memory

Since 2001, 1,705 people have lost their lives on Australian farms due to non-intentional injuries, a FarmSafe Australia report found.

More than 60 per cent of deaths were caused by farm vehicles or mobile farm machinery.

Tractors were involved in 20 per cent of deaths, and quad bikes were responsible for 14 per cent.

More than 90 per cent of those who died were men, and more than 73 per cent were aged over 45.
An Australian mum-of-five accused of smuggling 7kg of cocaine and heroin into Taiwan is holed up in a cramped jail, isolated from her family with no one to talk to.

Debbie Voulgaris, 57, has been in a Taiwanese prison since she was arrested at Taoyuan International Airport in December after about $1.25million worth of drugs were allegedly found in black plastic bags inside her suitcase.

Her ex-husband John Voulgaris told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday that she was framed by criminals posing as overseas investors who used her as a drug mule, and stopped taking his calls once she was arrested.

However, local police allege Ms Voulgaris was paid $2,700 to cover her flights and accommodation while she transported the drugs from Malaysia to Taiwan.

She faces death by firing squad if found guilty, but the sentence could be reduced to a lengthy jail sentence.

Until her matter goes back to Taoyuan District Court in August, she will be stuck in jail and barred from speaking to her ex-husband, or her five children in Melbourne.

Debbie Voulgaris (pictured), 57, was arrested at Taoyuan International Airport in December

Ms Voulgaris (pictured) was arrested after drugs were allegedly found in black plastic bags inside her luggage

Taoyuan Woman's Prison (pictured) where inmates are forced to spend the day working in factories

It is likely Ms Voulgaris is being held in Taoyuan Woman's Prison, where inmates are forced to work in factories, are banned from speaking, and have to buy their own blankets.

According to a British government website, there are two or three inmates per cell who each have a foam mattress, but extras have to be purchased from the prison shop.

Talking between detainees is only permitted during breaks, meals are bread and rice and only cater for Chinese palates, and all fruit and vegetables are purchased at the inmate's own expense.

Almost half the inmates at Taoyuan Woman's Prison have committed drug offences.

Ms Voulgaris has been denied visits from family members but can speak with her legal team and officials from the Australian Office in Taipei.

An application for her release was denied in March, with judges Cai Yirong and Hou Jingyun ruling there was substantial evidence she was a flight risk.

Her lawyers had argued their client hadn't spoken with her family in three months, was struggling to adapt to Chinese food and could not speak Chinese.

However, the judges ruled these were 'not factors to be considered when determining the necessity of detention'.

One American expat who spent weeks in Pingtung Detention Center, in the nation's south, previously told the Taipei Times overcrowding was a major issue with only 75 per cent of inmates assigned their own bed.

Her ex-husband John Voulgaris (pictured) says his wife was 'set up' by traffickers

The visitor reception area at Taoyuan Woman's Prison (pictured)

Prisoners are escorted by guards at the prison which mostly holds drug convicts (file image)

Those held at Taoyuan Woman's Prison are only allowed to speak at factory breaks

Inmates at the Taiwanese prison during an activity in one of the classrooms

His cellmates used batteries and toilet paper to light their cigarettes, there were no clocks and watches were banned.

Taiwanese police allege Ms Voulgaris initially 'vehemently denied' knowing about the drugs, before later claiming her ex-husband was behind the scheme.

Mr Voulgaris, who owns a home loan company, told Daily Mail Australia: 'We don't know anything about bloody drugs and have never seen or touched them in our lives!'

He first met the criminals posing as investors 16 years ago and had gone to a Taiwanese bank with them in 2007 as part of their business dealings.

They stayed in contact, but their solicitor had recently reached out to the former couple with a new proposal.

'All we were doing was an overseas investment,' he said.

'They wanted to invest. I sent $3million out of my money.

'When I found out [about her arrest], I tried to get in contact with them but they switched off their phones.

Speaking to the ABC this week, Ms Voulgaris' lawyer Leon Huang said it was 'essential' her ex took the stand as he was the only person who could confirm her claims.

He described her as a 'good-natured person' who 'believed people easily' and had been used as a drug 'mule'.

'Based on her description it appeared that number one, Ms Debbie Voulgaris was not aware of the nature of her travelling,' Mr Huang said.

'And number two, she had no idea of what's placed inside and under her luggage, because there is a hidden compartment and she wasn't aware of that.'

Mr Huang said that because his client had admitted guilt early, while still maintaining she didn't know about the drugs, she may avoid the death penalty.

'If the court finds someone worthy of sympathy, like Debbie's case, typically, they would not want to offer the option of death sentence,' he said.

However, the chances she receives the death penalty are unlikely after Taiwan's Constitutional Court ruled last August that imposing a life sentence or the death penalty for drug offences is partly unconstitutional.

A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman said a detained Australian woman in Taiwan was receiving consular assistance.
This is the moment the large makeshift blade of the cowardly Brixton slasher was found by police after he stabbed a Christian charity worker to death.

Mohamed Nur, 35, was jailed yesterday for at least 32 years for stabbing 31-year-old Johanita Dogbey three times in the neck just two days after slashing three other strangers' faces.

The random attack against Ms Dogby took place near Brixton 's O2 academy in south London on May 1 last year.

She was killed while on the phone to her grandmother on the way home from buying a birthday gift for her mother.

Now, police footage showing the moment Nur's weapon was found has been released.

Pictured: Mohammed Nur used the weapon to cut the throat of Johanita Kossiwa Dogbey in broad daylight last year on May 1

Johanita Kossiwa Dogbey (pictured), 31, had been walking alone in Stockwell Park Walk in Brixton after going into central London to do some shopping

Here is a look at the makeshift blade which was found by police after Nur was searched

An officer can be seen felling the right leg of Nur before he pulls out the makeshift knife which was hidden in his pocket

Several officers can then heard shouting 'knife, knife' to the each other as Nur remains motionless on the police vehicle.

Nur had been waiting on the streets of Brixton before he saw Ms Dogbey and followed her before launching his 'violent and unprovoked' attack while she shouted for him to leave her alone.

She was able to get to her feet briefly before collapsing as members of the public rushed to her aid but she later died at the scene. Nur replied 'What, who's she?' when he was later arrested for murder.

He had attacked Rebecca Wilkes, Tomasz Kmiecik and Katie Matthews in a five minute rampage using a make-shift weapon from broken glass and rubber bands, between 11.25pm and 11.30pm, on 29 April 2023 in the same area.

The night after killing Ms Dogbey he went out with another weapon to the same area again and was arrested by police.

Nur admitted murder and denied three counts of unlawful wounding but was convicted by an Old Bailey jury last week.

The killer refused to come to court from prison for a single day of his two week trial saying there was 'no point' coming when he had already admitted murder.

He again sent a refusal notice to the judge today saying there was 'no point' attending the sentencing hearing.

Addressing the empty dock, Judge Angela Rafferty, KC, jailed Nur for life with a minimum term of 32 years.

Officers can be heard saying 'knife, knife' to each other after the discovery was made

A post-mortem examination identified the cause of death as sharp force trauma to the neck

The scene in south London following the stabbing last May. Now Nur faces life in jail for murder

She said: 'All of these victims were complete strangers to you. Someone who saw Johnita said she sounded happy. You would have seen she was talking and had her hands occupied.

'It is a sickening piece of footage to view but it must have been even more horrific for those present to witness.

'The savagery of your attack is hard to say in words. She was in the prime of her life and now with no warning whatsoever before she was killing in this vicious and horrifying attack.

'You have never offered any explanation or remorse for this senseless killing. There was a deliberate decision to go out and target the innocent and the defenceless.

'You are a very dangerous man and the risk you pose is incalculable. It is my firm view that had you not been arrested on 2 May you would have been likely to attack again.'

The judge added: 'This defendant has not attended any day of his trial and has sent notices to say he sees no point and has not come today for his public sentencing hearing and I am taking this very seriously.

'He has in effect committed a number of contempt of court offences and so he could face consecutive sentences for a number of years and I am minded to mark it.

'We cannot have defendants in a case like this just not turning up to court without any penalty whatsoever.'

Nur had also refused to leave his cell to be interviewed by police and had to be questioned though the opening in the cell door to which he did not respond.
Shoppers are being bombarded with false and misleading claims that everyday products are helping the environment, an inquiry has been told.

Senators are examining the unscrupulous practice of greenwashing, where companies convey false impressions their products are environmentally sound.

They've heard consumers are being lied to and manipulated - and product manufacturers and retailers are getting away with it - because Australia lacks effective regulations.

On Friday, the inquiry heard how consumers are being tricked into buying products - sometimes at premium prices - that make environmental claims that cannot be substantiated.

Senators are examining unscrupulous practices of greenwashing in supermarkets were told on Friday that many environmental claims cannot be substantiated (stock pictured)

Heidi Tait is the founder of the Tangaroa Blue Foundation, which works to prevent, remove and track marine debris in Australia.

She said Australians have been offered products that claim to use 100 or 50 per cent recycled ocean plastic, but chemically that's impossible due to the degradation and contamination that occurs when plastics spend time in the sea.

Ms Tait said three per cent or less was the maximum level achievable for functional packaging, and described so-called ocean, or ocean bound, recycled plastic as 'the poster child of greenwashing'.

The consumer watchdog recently launched Federal Court proceedings against one such product - Glad's recycled bin liners that boasted they were made from '50 per cent ocean plastic' or '50 per cent ocean bound plastic'.

The fine print on the packaging revealed the recycled plastic used to make the liners may never have been in the ocean, and could have been plucked from the land in developing countries, up to 50km from the sea.

Representatives of The Clorox Company, which makes Glad products, addressed Friday's inquiry and said the bin liners had been withdrawn from sale in Australia and New Zealand.

That occurred in June 2023, after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission announced in April that it was taking Clorox to court over alleged breaches of Australia's consumer laws.

The consumer watchdog recently launched Federal Court proceedings against one such product - Glad's recycled bin liners that boasted they were made from '50 per cent ocean plastic' or '50 per cent ocean bound plastic'

Company executives said they could not comment on matters now before the court, but generally speaking it was 'not uncommon' for Clorox to change marketing claims over time on the basis of consumer feedback.

They also complained that 'vague regulations' and a lack of helpful definitions had created challenges for the company, and other similar firms.

'Companies really and truly want to do the right thing,' Clorox's vice-president and head of sustainability Niki King said.

'To date, it's been a challenge because regulation has not been there to guide us appropriately.'

Ms Tait, from Tangaroa Blue, said it was good to see the ACCC acting after a sweep of the internet found 57 per cent of 247 businesses that were reviewed had made concerning environmental claims.

'Consumers may pay a premium for products that do not fulfil their environmental claims,' she said.

Ms Tait said the result was shoppers being offered 'false solutions' that disadvantage manufacturers with products that genuinely reduce environmental impacts.

The inquiry continues.
At the age of just three, Carlo Acutis dragged his own mother to Mass.

Within a few short years, the precocious young Catholic had converted her to full-blown Christianity - with priests remarking that he was on a 'special mission' for the Church.

Indeed, London-born Carlo had written as a seven-year-old: 'My life plan is to be always close to Jesus'.

Remarking on his extraordinary life, cut short by leukaemia in 2006 aged 15, his mother Antonia Salzano said: 'This is a mystery to me. But many saints had special relationships with God from an early age, even if their family was not religious.'

Ms Salzano now refers to her late son as her 'savior' as Carlo taught her more and more about his faith and credits him with her conversion into Christianity.

Born in London in 1991 to an Italian mother and a half-English, half-Italian father who was working in the UK as a merchant banker, Carlo grew up in Milan where he took care of his parish website and later that of a Vatican-based academy.

From the age of three Carlo would donate his pocket money to the poor and later at school supported victims of bullying and spent his evenings cooking and delivering meals to the homeless.

Carlo's devotion to his faith were unwavering, telling his parents in his final words: 'I die happy because I didnt spend any minutes of my life in things God doesnt love.'

Even after his death, the youngster, informally known as 'God's influencer', was performing miracles, supposedly healing a critically ill child and a brain bleed victim in 2012 and 2022.

Carlo (pictured) was a devout Christian when he was alive and attended daily mass

Carlo's mother Antonia Salzano (pictured) refers to her late son as her 'savior' as Carlo taught her more and more about his faith and credits him with her conversion into Christianity

Carlo also helped the homeless and stood up for bullied classmates at school. Pictured: Young Carlo with his dog at Christmas

15-year-old Carlo Acutis, an Italian boy who died in 2006 of leukemia, lies in state in Assisi

Carlo was raised by first an Irish nanny then a Polish one. They claim he was inspired in part by St Francis of Assisi, who was born in the same town Carlo was laid to rest.

Remarking over her late son, Ms Salzano told the Times: 'Sometimes these beautiful [saints] are all very old and used to live in a very different world so young people don't feel so close to them.

What are the five steps to becoming a saint? Five-year wait: Five years usually needs to have passed after someone's death for the process to begin. This allows for a period of reflection on the case. Servant of God: The bishop of the diocese where the person has died investigates whether their life was holy enough to be deemed a 'servant of God'. Life of heroic virtue: The Congregation for the Causes of Saints looks at the case. If they approve it is passed onto the Pope, who declares the subject a person of 'heroic virtue'. Beatification: A miracle needs to happen to a person who has prayed to the person in question. Canonisation: A second miracle is attributed to the person who has been beatified. Advertisement

'Carlo was young and handsome and always smiling and was a computer genius and would play on his PlayStation and Game Boy.

'To have a saint that played with the same things as you do is something that really touches these young people.'

Ms Salzano said Carlo had a 'special relationship' with God from an early age, even though her family was not religious.

She told Shalom Tidings that she had only ever been to mass three times before Carlo began dragging her to church at the age of three and a half.

Around the same time he began asking questions about his faith and engaging in practices she had never heard of including honoring existing saints, leaving flowers at shrines, and spending hours in church.

She said: 'Through Carlo I understood that the bread and wine become the real presence of God among us. This was a fantastic discovery for me. He showed us how not to waste time. Each second of his life was glorification of God.'

The youngster even limited himself to one hour of video games each day so that he could devote more time to his religion. 'Every minute wasted is one less minute to glorify God,' his mother said.

Carlo was also an incredibly smart young boy, speaking his first word at three months, starting talking at five months, and writing at age four.

Ms Salzano recalled that at the age of seven, Carlo wrote: 'My life plan is to be always close to Jesus.' At the age of nine he also began teaching himself about computer programming.

Carlo later used his skills to set up a website named, 'The Eucharistic Miracles of the World' where he researched and documented miracles attributed with the Eucharist

The website says it 'aimed at confirming faith in the real presence of the body and blood of the Lord in the Eucharist'.

Carlo (pictured) died in 2006 and is set to be made into a saint after supposedly healing a critically ill child and a brain bleed victim in 2012 and 2022

Carlo (pictured) was raised by first an Irish nanny then a Polish one. They claim he was inspired in part by St Francis of Assisi, who was born in the same town Carlo was laid to rest

Carlo is pictured as a young boy waving to the camera as he seemingly enjoys a holiday in the snow

Carlo (pictured as a baby) was also an incredibly smart young boy, speaking his first word at three months, starting talking at five months, and writing at age four

Carlo (pictured) even limited himself to one hour of video games each day so that he could devote more time to his religion

Despite his keen intellect, Carlo never received any grief in school. 'Naturally, there is lots of jealousy between classmates, but with Carlo none of that happened,' Ms Salzano told Shalom Tidings.

Who are the four patron saints of Great Britain and Ireland? England - St George It is believed that St George was born in Cappodocia, what is modern-day Turkey around 280 AD. George served in the Roman army, rising to the rank of legatus. However, he protested the Roman armys treatment of Christians and was imprisoned. After refusing to renounce his Christianity, George was executed in Palestine, making him a martyr. Despite St Georges association with England, he never stepped foot on English land and wasnt a knight either. Wales - St David Born in Caerfai in Pembrokeshire around 500 AD, St David was recognised as the Welsh patron saint during the countrys resistance to the Normans. After his studies, St David travelled and made pilgrimages to Jerusalem where he was made an archbishop. He is also well-known for performing miracles with the most famous being how he was able to raise the ground under him to form a hill so that the Synod of Brefi crowd could hear his sermon. Scotland - St Andrew St Andrew is believed to have been born between 5AD and 10AD and was one of Jesus's 12 disciples, according to the Bible. Like Jesus he was sentenced to detah by crucifixion by the Romans, however he requested his cross be x shaped as he didn't think he was worthy of having the same death as the son of God. Northern Ireland - St Patrick St Patrick was born in Roman Britain, kidnapped by Irish pirates and sold into slavery before escaping to France, where he studied religion. He eventually returned to Ireland as a missionary in the 5th century and is believed to have been the founder of Christianity in Ireland after supposedly becoming the country's first bishop. Advertisement

'He melted those things like magic; with his smile and purity of heart he conquered everyone. He had the ability to enflame the hearts of people, to turn their cold hearts warm.' She added that all those around him, strangers, teachers, classmates and even priests themselves recognised how special Carlo was.

At the end of each day, Carlo would take time to reflect on his life, how he treated his friends, teachers and parents and how he could eliminate any form of sin that he may have committed.

His mother recalled him saying: 'Not I, but God. There needs to be less of me so I can leave more room for God.'

After being diagnosed with the deadly blood cancer on October 4, 2006, Carlo told his parents: 'I'm happy to die because I've lived my life without wasting even a minute of it doing things that wouldn't have pleased God.'

Since his death, Carlo has garnered a global following, and his body was moved to the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, Assisi where it is currently on display.

In the UK, he has been remembered by the Archbishop of Birmingham, who in 2020 established the Parish of Blessed Carlo Acutis with churches in Wolverhampton and Wombourne.

And now his devotion to his faith has finally been recognised as Pope Francis has approved Carlo become a saint after performing two miracles since his death.

In 2012, a Brazilian boy was cured from a rare pancreatic disease after prayers had been made to Carlo to intervene with God.

The Vatican accepted the incident as a miracle attributed to Carlo and announced in 2020 that the computer lover would be beatified.

Beatification gives the person the title 'Blessed'. Other beatified people include Mother Theresa and Pope John Paul II.

Acutis was beatified in Assisi, the home of his idol Saint Francis, who dedicated his life to the care of the poor.

A second miracle, which if confirmed, allows a deceased person to become a saint, if approved by the Pope.

Acutis' second miracle came in 2022, after a 21-year-old Costa Rican girl recovered from a severe brain injury after a bicycle accident in Florence.

The woman, Valeria Valverde, underwent an emergency craniomoty to reduce pressure on her brain.

Her family were told she was in a critical condition, and her mother went to Assisi to pray at Acutis' tomb.

That same day, the church claimed, the woman managed to breathe without aide, and then managed to speak again and use her upper limbs.

Scans showed the contusion on her brain had disappeared, and she was discharged from intensive care ten days later.

Carlo Acutis, an Italian boy who died in 2006 of leukemia, lies in state ahead of being beatified by Cardinal Agostino Vallini, in Assisi

Carlo Acutis, who died of leukaemia in 2006 aged 15 and was informally known as 'God's influencer' and is about to become a saint

Promotional pics of Carlo Acutis made to look like a Saint. Here is portrayed with his arm around Jesus

Carlo, pictured in a promotional drawing, grew up in Milan where he took care of his parish website and later that of a Vatican-based academy

Carlo (pictured) was diagnosed with leukaemia on October 4, 2006 and died October 12

Carlo (pictured) would be only the second Briton to become canonised in nearly 50 years, after Cardinal John Henry Newman was made a Saint last year

Carlo (pictured) grew up in Milan where he took care of his parish website and later of a Vatican-based academy

But his supposed miracles did not stop there, as even his mother claims to have been graced by his spirit since his death. She says she saw Carlo in a dream where he told her she would be a mother again.

And sure enough, at the age of 44, on the anniversary of his death in 2010, she gave birth to twins, Francesca and Michele.

Carlo is set to be named as a 'future patron of the internet' due to his passion in life for spreading the word on God online.

He would be only the second Briton to become canonised in nearly 50 years, after Cardinal John Henry Newman was made a Saint last year.

He was the first since October 25, 1970, when a large number of British martyrs were canonised at the same time by Pope Paul VI.

While being the first millennial to be canonised, Carlo is not the youngest. Jacinta Marto was just 10 years old when she died in 1920, before later becoming a saint.

She was canonised along with her 12-year old brother in 2017, after performing a second miracle of healing of a Brazilian child, Lucas Batista, from a head injury following a fall from a window in 2013.

The Brazilian boy Matheus Vianna who was 'saved' by Carlo Acutis

Matheus, pictured holding a picture of Carlo, was cured from a rare pancreatic disease after prayers had been made to Carlo to intervene with God

Jacinta Marto, pictured right next to her brother, was just 10 years old when she died in 1920, before later becoming a saint

Other notable saints that have been canonised in modern times include Mother Teresa (pictured), who supposedly healed two people's tumours after her death in 1997

Joan of Arc (pictured) also became a saint in 1920 and was canonised by Pope Benedict XV after healing five different people, including three nuns with cancer

Other notable saints that have been canonised in modern times include Mother Teresa, who supposedly healed two people's tumours after her death in 1997.

Joan of Arc also became a saint in 1920 and was canonised by Pope Benedict XV after healing five different people, including three nuns with cancer.

In the early Church, a number of children were martyred for their faith and later declared to be saints.

They include St Pancras, a Roman who was beheaded at the age of 14 in 304AD after he converted to Christianity, and St Ponticus of Lyons, France, who was just 15 when he was thrown to wild beasts in 177AD.

Antonietta Meo was just six-and-a-half years old when she lost her battle against bone cancer in 1937.

An image of 15-year-old Carlo Acutis is seen during his beatification ceremony celebrated by Cardinal Agostino Vallini in the St Francis Basilica, in Assisi, Italy, in October 2020

Acutis, who was nicknamed the 'Patron Saint of the Internet', came to the attention of the Vatican aged 11 when he used his IT skills to make websites documenting Eucharistic miracles

Despite being born to non-practicing parents, Acutis became devout at a young age - asking to be taken into churches aged three, and receiving the sacrament aged seven after being granted an exemption due to his age

Acutis's parents, Antonia (front) and Andrea (rear) are greeted by Cardinal Agostino Vallini during the beatification ceremony in Assisi, central Italy, in October 2020

The ceremony in October 2020 began with a procession through Assisi, which drew some 3,000 people, most of whom watched the beatification on large screens outside the church

Pope Benedict XVI announced in 2007 that she would be canonised, making her the youngest non-martyr saint in the 2,000-year history of the Roman Catholic Church.

Before her, youngest saint of modern times had been St Maria Goretti who died at the age of 12 years old when she was stabbed 14 times during a frenzied attack by Alessandro Serenelli in 1902.

After his arrest Serenelli admitted that he had been trying to rape the girl but she had told him that she would rather die than submit to him.

St Maria was canonised 'virgin and martyr' in 1950 by Pope Pius XII in a ceremony attended by Serenelli, who by that time had spent 30 years in prison for the attempted rape and murder.

The youngest non-martyr saint is another Italian, Domenico Savio, a 14-year-old student for the priesthood who died of pleurisy in 1857. He was canonised in 1954, also by Pope Pius XII.
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This video is no longer available

Australia's Attorney-General will now decide if an ex-fighter pilot from the US will be extradited back to his home country for his alleged role in helping train the Chinese military after a Sydney court ruling.

Former top gun Daniel Duggan, 55, can be shipped back to the US to stand trial, Magistrate Daniel Reiss ruled at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on Friday.

Mr Duggan's barrister, Bret Walker SC, told the court that his client could not legally mount a defence and would not contest the ruling, 9News reports.

The former pilot has spent 19 months in solitary confinement in a maximum-security prison and will now await extradition under a temporary surrender warrant.

His wife, Saffrine, was joined by their children and other supporters outside the court to advocate for Mr Duggan's immediate release.

Former top gun Daniel Duggan, 55, can be extradited to the US, a Sydney court ruled Friday

Mr Duggan's wife, Saffrine, and their children were joined by other supporters outside Downing Centre Local Court on Friday calling for his release

Mrs Duggan said that her house has been commandeered by officials and her requests for Legal Aid rejected while her husband has been preparing his defence.

'This deliberate torture has to stop today,' Mrs Duggan said outside court.

'They have done everything in their power to make this difficult for my family, to try and break Dan and to break us, but we will fight no matter what.

'We respectfully ask the attorney-general to take another look ... and to bring my husband home.'

Mr Duggan was arrested in Australia at the request of the US after he was accused of breaching arms trafficking laws by providing military training to Chinese pilots.

Mr Duggan allegedly provided his services in South Africa from 2010 through to 2012 and received $100,000 for doing so.

He has 15 days to apply for a review in the Federal Court, otherwise it falls to Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus to determine whether he should be surrendered to the US.

Asked by Magistrate Reiss if Friday's hearing would be contested, Mr Walker told the court: 'Not really, no.'

Mr Reiss noted the position from Duggan's lawyers had 'streamlined the considerations significantly'.

The Magistrate reminded those in the attendance on Friday about contempt of court as one man likened the proceedings to a 'kangaroo court'.

Mr Duggan's family has argued that his charges are trumped up and politically motivated.

Mrs Duggan claims to have been rejected by Legal Aid and that the charges against her husband are trumped up and politically motivated

A petition with 25,000 signatures addressed to Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus calls for an end to Mr Duggan's extradition

Lawyer Bernard Collaery asked for him to be held at Lithgow to be closer to his family.

Outside court, Mr Collaery described the court's decision as an administrative step that would be followed by a lengthy submission to Mr Dreyfus.

'This was not an examination of the evidence, this was not a mini-trial of matters that are to be decided elsewhere,' he said.

In April Mr Duggan unsuccessfully tried to postpone the hearings after claiming to have spent $800,000 in legal bills.

While in prison he wrote a letter stating to have never broken the law since the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and US Naval Central Intelligence Service both knew what he was doing at the time.

More than 25,000 people have signed a petition calling on Mr Dreyfus to release Mr Duggan from prison and end his extradition.

Greens senator David Shoebridge offered to table the petition in parliament.

Mr Shoebridge said the country needs to 'show some guts' and 'make it clear that being an Australian citizen matters'.

A spokesman for the attorney-general said the government did not comment on extradition matters.
Czech President Petr Pavel was rushed to hospital yesterday following a motorcycle crash.

Pavel, 62, was racing his BMW R1200 GS in Prague when he came crashing off the vehicle before being taken to the nearest military hospital.

Police have said they will not investigate the incident, as the crash took place on a private track in Prague.

Officials have stressed that the president's injuries are not life-threatening, but would require observations before he could be discharged.

'The president was injured while riding his motorcycle,' Pavel's office said on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

Petr Pavel (pictured) was previously forced to apologies after being seen riding his motorcycle without a helmet

Petr Pavel is known for his love of motorcycles and has continued to rise them since becoming president in 2023

'The injuries are not serious but will require a short observation in the hospital.'

The former NATO general is known for his love of motorcycle racing and this is not the first time this passion has caused trouble for his government.

Last August, just months after his inauguration as president, Pavel was forced to publicly apologies after being caught riding without a helmet.

Taking to X after the incident, Pavel wrote: 'I realize my mistake and I apologize for the obvious traffic violation.

'In this case, I went to the gas station to fill up the tires. It was a 1.5-kilometer-long journey along a rarely used road, and I had to connect to the main road for a few tens of meters. It was stupid.

'I realize that the president should lead by example in following the rules.'

During the run-up to his election, Pavel was clear he would continue to ride motorcycles while in office despite the risk.

Pavel played a central role in the wake of December's Prague shooting which killed 18 people

Speaking in 2022, he said: 'Why couldn't President Pavel possibly ride a motorcycle?

'I had 24/7 security when I was chairman of the NATO military committee, and half of my team of security guards were bikers.

'Not that I would choose them based on that. When we went somewhere on motorbikes, we went as a group of friends.'

Alongside his love of racing, Pavel is also known for carrying his own personal firearm, a right he defended prior to his time as president.

'I have a firearms license that authorizes me to possess a weapon, so I carried it in some situations. Now less, because I go out much more among people,' he told Radio Impuls.

President Pavel's crash comes at what is proving to be a dangerous period for Eastern European leaders.

Slovakia's prime minister, Robert Fico, was left in critical condition last week after an assassination attempt that shocked the world.

The populist leader was shot multiple times leaving him on the brink of death.

The populist leader Robert Fico (pictured) was shot multiple times last Wednesday in an assassination attempt

Earlier this week, Slovakia's defence minister Robert Kalinak told reporters outside the hospital where Fico is being treated that he remains in a serious condition.

He said: 'The worst of what we feared has passed, at least for the moment. But his condition remains serious.

'His condition is stable with a positive prognosis.'

Speaking on Sunday, Kalinak revealed a 'third party' may have been involved in the attempted assassination.

Kalinak added: 'The situation is turning out to be even worse than we expected.

'Plus other indications that these facts of Wednesday's attack have been discussed in a wider circle.'
A British woman critically injured on the Singapore Airlines flight has been left paralysed from the waist down, her husband revealed today.

Dance teacher Kerry Jordan has suffered a 'life changing injury' after being catapulted into the overhead lockers after the Boeing 777 hit extreme turbulence on its flight from London.

She is recovering at Bangkok's Samittivej Srinakarin Hospital where she is expected to remain for several weeks having undergone emergency surgery.

Jordan, who is orginally from Appledore in Devon, was on her way home to Adelaide in Australia with her husband Keith Davis after a holiday in the UK.

She is a permanent resident of Australia having emigrated as a child.

Dance teacher Kerry Jordan has suffered a 'life changing injury' after being catapulted into the overhead lockers. She is pictured right with husband Keith Davis

Davis, 59, revealed that his wife 'is not in a great space' and said as the plane suddenly dropped altitude she was thrown from her seat

The interior of Singapore Airline flight SG321 is pictured after an emergency landing at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Thailand, May 21

Davis, 59, revealed that his wife 'is not in a great space' and said as the plane suddenly dropped altitude she was thrown from her seat into a overhead locker and landed in the aisle where she remained until the flight diverted to Bangkok.

'She had emergency surgery as soon as we were admitted and it remains that she has no sensation from the waist down, so its pretty life changing,' said Davis from his hospital bed.

His wife is one of 22 people who suffered spinal injuries during the incident. Ten British passengers - the largest number - remain hospitalised.

Among them is the widow of Geoff Kitchen, a former theatre director who was the only fatality on the plane.

The 73 year old is believed to have suffered a heart attack.

The Kitchens, from Thornbury, Gloucestershire, were sitting in the row ahead of Mr Davis and his wife.

Describing the scene of mayhem and terror, Mr Davis said: 'We just fell into a huge hole and we're free falling and of course straight up into the ceiling.

Kerry is recovering at Bangkok's Samittivej Srinakarin Hospital where she is expected to remain for several weeks having undergone emergency surgery

'I went headfirst. We were in the middle section so I was dead centre and I went up through the vent and masks and things. Unfortunately for Kerry she hit the luggage doors.

'Instead of landing back in the seat are, she fell flat into the aisle and from that moment, she didn't move. That's where she remained for the rest of the flight.

'It horrifying. I remember I leant over her and she was breathing. She was able to communicate, she was very weak.

Geoff Kitchen, 73, suffered a suspected heart attack on the plane and ultimately died

'I remember feeling her breath, talking and I realised I was dripping blood into her dress. I thought, Oh, I'm going to ruin her dress.'

Davis was pictured being wheeled into a hospital coffee shop in a green gown and a large white bandage swathed across his head. He had a black eye and swelling on his cheek.

Mr Davis said it would be a matter of weeks before his wife could fly back to their home in Australia with the airline arranging for their daughter to fly out to Bangkok.

His wife is a former head of dance at Scotch College in Adelaide.

Her husband has previously said his wife was born in the UK and emigrated to Australia as a child.

Thai authorities said 40 people from the flight remain in hospital, with 22 being treated for spinal injuries.

Six patients are also being treated for skull and brain injuries.

An injured person is seen being carried off the plane in a stretcher after the incident

Adinun Kittiratanapaibool, Director of Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, said the oldest patient at the hospital is 83-years-old and the youngest is a two-year-old child who suffered a concussion.

Hospital authorities in Bangkok said three British passengers from the Singapore flight have been discharged overnight.

Seven remain hospitalised and undergoing treatment, including the widow of Geoff Kitchen.

Hospital chiefs said those with spinal injuries will remain in hospital for several weeks.
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has been kicked out of the party aftrer confirming he will stand against it as an independent candidate at the General Election

The 74-year-old far Left icon has sat as an independent in Islington North for almost four years, having been kicked out of the parliamentary party over comments he made about a probe into anti-Semitism under his leadership.

Sir Keir Starmer blocked his attempts to be chosen as a Labour candidate in the constituency he has represented since 1983 until he apologised for them.

Mr Corbyn, who repeatedly dropped hints that he could run as an independent, finally confirmed his decision today, a move that automatically sees him expelled from the Labour Party.

But it also fires the start gun on what is expected to be a brutal internecine battle in north London, where many members of the Constituency Labour Party (CLP) remain loyal to him.

It creates a headache for Sir Keir, who has been keen to distance Labour from the policies and controversial of his predecessor. And it will raise questions about the future of Corbyn ally Diane Abbott, who is also currently suspended.

The current leader threw shade at his predecessor this morning, telling Sky News 'we are ahead in the polls because we are a changed party' from how it looked under Mr Corbyn.

The 74-year-old far Left icon has sat as an independent for almost four years, having been kicked out of the parliamentary party over comments he made about a probe into anti-Semitism under his leadership.

In a post on X Mr Corbyn said he would 'continue to be an independent voice for equality, democracy and peace'.

Mr Corbyn had repeatedly dropped hints that he could run as an independent, a move that will kick off a bitter campaign in the north London constituency, where the local party remains loyal to him.

It also raises questions about the future of Diane Abbott. The Hackey North and Stoke Newington MP was also suspended by Labour over remarks she made downplaying anti-gypsy racism.

Labour has announced local campaigner and councillor Praful Nargund as its candidate for Islington North.

Mr Corbyn had a majority of 26,188 in his Islington North seat at the 2019 election when running as a Labour candidate, and was first elected to Parliament in 1983.

He becomes the first former Labour leader to run against the party since Ramsay MacDonald in 1931.

In a post on X Mr Corbyn said he would 'continue to be an independent voice for equality, democracy and peace'.

He threw down a gauntlet to Sir Keir by pledging to campaign on issues including scrapping the two-child benefit cap, something Sir Keir does not want to do.

He said: 'I am standing as an independent candidate for the people of Islington North. As your MP, I will continue to be an independent voice for equality, democracy and peace.

'Let's prove that when we come together, we can win.'

Mr Corbyn has been suspended by Labour since 2020 after he refused to fully accept the Equality and Human Rights Commission's findings that the party broke equality law when he was in charge and said antisemitism had been 'dramatically overstated for political reasons'.

Mr Corbyn told the Islington Tribune that he would fight to retain a seat he has represented for 40 years, adding: 'We have to stand up and defend our rights.'

Mr Corbyn appealed to lifelong Labour voters, saying that 'I am here to represent the people of Islington North on exactly the same principles that I've stood by my whole life: social justice, human rights and peace'.

He went on to say that 'these principles are needed now more than ever before', vowing to defend 'a genuine alternative to the corrupt years of this Tory government', including rent controls, public ownership of energy and water, the abolition of the two-child benefits cap, a Green New Deal, and an ethical foreign policy based on peace and human rights.

Mr Corbyn added: 'When I was first elected, I made a promise to stand by my constituents no matter what. In Islington North, we keep our promises.'

Labour on Wednesday unveiled a two-name shortlist for Islington North, the seat Mr Corbyn has represented since 1983, after he was banned from standing.

It also raises questions about the future of Diane Abbott. The Hackey North and Stoke Newington MP was also suspended by Labour over remarks she made downplaying anti-gypsy racism.

Sir Keir this morning said a Labour investigation into her comments will be resolved before the General Election.

Asked about the probe by LBC radio, the Labour leader said: 'It will be resolved, yes of course it will. We have got a cut-off date for, I think it is June 4, or thereabouts.

'So we have got a date in place.'

Pressed about whether the Hackney North and Stoke Newington MP who currently sits as an independent, would have the whip restored, Sir Keir said: 'That is a process we are going through. The National Executive Committee in the end will decide that.

'But we have got a process in place and we will complete it reasonably soon now.'
Korea's arms procurement agency chief has visited Saudi Arabia and Romania for talks on expanding defense industry cooperation, his office said Friday, amid Seoul's push to clinch more arms export deals.

Seok Jong-gun, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) minister, first left for Saudi Arabia on Sunday after Korean defense company LIG Nex1 won a $3.2 billion contract to supply the Mid-range Surface-to-Air Missile Block-II system to Riyadh last November.

During the three-day visit, Seok held talks with officials from the Saudi Ministry of National Guard and discussed ways for Seoul's participation in its large-scale project to strengthen ground forces, according to DAPA.

In February, the Saudi ministry signed a memorandum of understanding with Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace for cooperation in the project.

He also attended a workshop on Riyadh's efforts to acquire key weapons systems, and the participants agreed to hold working-level talks on ways for the Saudi military to utilize Korean ground, maritime and aerospace weapons systems, DAPA said.

Seok also visited Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Military Industries and General Authority for Defense Development and agreed for the agencies to push to sign a memorandum of understanding for cooperation with Seoul's Agency for Defense Development and Defense Agency for Technology and Quality.

Last October, President Yoon Suk Yeol met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a state visit to Riyadh, where they agreed to deepen the strategic partnership between their countries.

On Tuesday, Seok began a five-day trip to Romania to discuss possible exports of Korean weapons systems, including K9 self-propelled howitzers and K2 main battle tanks, according to DAPA.

Seok visited the Black Sea Defense, Aerospace and Security International Exhibition in Bucharest to hold talks with Defense Minister Angel Tilvar, Economy Minister Stefan-Radu Oprea and other senior government officials, as well as lawmakers to discuss arms industry cooperation.

Last month, Yoon and Romanian President Klaus Iohannis agreed to boost defense cooperation during their summit in Seoul. Romania placed an order for LIG Nex1's Chiron surface-to-air missiles last November. (Yonhap)
'Deeply shocking' swastika graffiti has been found inside an Oxford college, its Principal has said, as pro-Gaza protesters at the elite university clashed with police.

Sir Malcolm Evans, who leads Regents Park College, told students 'appropriate action will be taken should we become aware of the identity of those responsible'.

It is understood the Nazi symbols were found on the walls of two toilet cubicles next to the college's Hall - its dining room - leaving Jewish students 'deeply upset'.

His message came on Thursday, as Oxford students tried and failed to occupy a building in their latest demonstration against Israel's war in Gaza, leading to 16 being arrested.

Oxford Action for Palestine, which is attempting to mimic the radical pro-Palestine protests seen on US campuses, said the university had 'enabled an unprecedented level of violence against students' following the clash.

Regent's Park College was founded 1752 and has strong ties with the Baptists

Police arrested Oxford students trying to occupy a university building yesterday

Protesters outside waving Palestinian flags during an attempted occupation of a building

Students said they were 'punched in the face' as the protest was broken up

A heavy police presence at the scene of the protest in the centre of historic university city

They claimed that those at the protest in Wellington Square, beside university administration buildings, were 'punched in the face' while others suffered 'abrasions' and 'students' glasses were broken'.

The violence comes weeks after anti-Israel students set up a 'liberated zone' encampment on a public green in front of the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where those wishing to enter are made to sign an online pledge opposing the 'Zionist entity'.

In his message to students about the incident in Regent's Park College, Sir Malcolm wrote: 'Early this week anti-Semitic graffiti in the form of a number of swastikas was found within the College. This is deeply shocking and is a matter that the College, and I personally, take extremely seriously. Such behaviour has no place here and cannot be considered acceptable under any circumstances.'

He went on to claim: 'We do not know who did this or why it was done; but be assured that appropriate action will be taken should we become aware of the identity of those responsible  as it would in respect of any such display of hatred or hostility towards members of our College, or others.'

The perpetrators of the graffiti are unknown and there is no evidence they are linked to any pro-Palestine group.

But the Union of Jewish Students and the Oxford Jewish Society said the incident might be linked to student union motions in the college about the conflict in the Middle East, a suspicion also held by senior figures in the college who said it was 'hard not to connect' them together.

'We are angered and deeply upset to hear of antisemitic graffiti at Regents Park College, reported by students to be Nazi Swastikas', the Union of Jewish Students and the Oxford Jewish Society said.

'Since October 7th, we have seen an overwhelming surge in antisemitism on campus, and this has only increased in recent weeks. Shamefully, our experiences have been denied and invalidated by JCR and MCR motions accusing us of weaponising antisemitism. Accusing minority groups of weaponizing their experiences is a stain on our campus community. Jewish students must not be left alone in the fight against antisemitism.

'We call on the university to show zero tolerance to the antisemitic and hostile atmosphere which has been allowed to flourish at Oxford University.'

Students have been camping out since the start of the month in support of Palestine

Oxford Action for Palestine has previously spoken out against the 'university's lack of engagement' with their demands, which include Oxford divesting and boycotting Israel and ending its 'complicity in scholasticide'.

On Saturday, the group staged a 'Gaza die-in' protest outside the Sheldonian Theatre and Bodleian Library while graduations were taking place.

Furious members of the group posted a video on social media on Saturday, accusing a security guard of 'slamming the door on the heads of students protesting the university's complicity in genocide'.

In fact, the video showed the member of staff weakly prodding them with his foot as he tries to access a door that they are obstructing.

University chiefs were summoned to Downing Street earlier this month to discuss the 'unacceptable' rise of anti-Semitism at universities and the need for campuses to be 'safe' for Jewish students.

A spokesman for Regent's Park College said: 'The College has made it clear that it takes this incident extremely seriously and that it is completely unacceptable. It is a distortion of our statement to suggest otherwise.

'We encourage those who can assist us in identifying those responsible to do so, and it would be irresponsible of us to set out in public investigatory steps being taken. We are actively supporting our students, and will continue to do all we can, including engagement with the statutory authorities, to ensure that all our students feel safe within our College community.'

Thames Valley Police was also contacted for comment.
The United Nations top court today will rule on a plea by South Africa to order a halt to Israel's military offensive in Gaza, after Pretoria accused Israel of 'genocide'.

Pretoria has urged the International Court of Justice to order an 'immediate' stop to Israel's campaign and facilitate access of humanitarian aid.

While the court cannot enforce its orders, South Africa's call has put mounting international pressure on Israel.

Israel wants the court to throw out the request, arguing an enforced ceasefire would make it impossible to recover hostages taken in their October 7 assault.

In a highly-charged ruling in January, the court ordered Israel to do everything in its power to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

Smoke billows during Israeli bombardment in eastern Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Sunday amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas

Displaced Palestinians, who fled their house due to Israeli strikes, shelter at a tent camp

South Africa argues that the recent Israeli operation in Rafah changed the situation on the ground and should compel the court to issue fresh emergency orders.

The ICJ's ruling comes hot on the heels of a landmark request by the International Criminal Court's lead prosecutor to seek arrest warrants for top Israeli and Hamas leaders earlier this week.

Prosecutor Karim Khan on Monday said he is seeking warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, saying they are guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the October 7 attack and the war in Gaza.

An Israeli official slammed the ICC's move as a 'baseless blood libel' against the country, while senior figures including President Isaac Herzog called the move 'outrageous,' saying it 'cannot be accepted by anyone'.

The ICJ's ruling comes after a landmark request by the ICC prosecutor to seek arrest warrants for top Israeli and Hamas leaders earlier this week

In public hearings at the ICJ last week, South Africa's ambassador Vusimuzi Madonsela alleged that 'Israel's genocide has continued apace and has just reached a new and horrific stage'.

'Although the present application was triggered by the unfolding situation in Rafah, Israel's genocidal onslaught across Gaza has intensified over the past few days, also warranting the attention of this Court,' he said.

South Africa states the only way to enable humanitarian aid in order to ease the crisis in Gaza is a full halt to Israel's military operations.

It wants the court to issue emergency orders while it weighs the broader South African case that Israel is breaching the 1948 UN Genocide Convention.

Israel counters that South Africa's case is an 'obscene exploitation of the most sacred convention' and the picture Pretoria paints to the court is 'completely divorced from the facts and circumstances'.

'It makes a mockery of the heinous charge of genocide,' said top Israel lawyer Gilam Noam at hearings.

'Calling something a genocide, again and again, does not make it genocide. Repeating a lie does not make it true', he added.

Israel pressed ahead with the assault on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah in defiance of global opposition, including from top ally the United States.

Washington has voiced concerns that about 1.4 million Palestinians trapped in the city would be caught in the line of fire.

An injured Palestinian boy stands next to the rubble of a family house that was hit overnight in Israeli bombardment in the Tal al-Sultan neighbourhood of Rafah in southern Gaza on Monday, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Israeli troops have moved in on the Gaza Strip's far-southern city of Rafah, which the army describes as the last Hamas stronghold and where the US says 800,000 civilians have been newly displaced by the fighting.

A Palestinian man and his children sit in a destroyed room following the targeting or a residential building by an Israeli airstrike in Rafah in the southern Gaza on Wednesday

Israel has since ordered mass evacuations from the city, and the UN says more than 800,000 people have fled.

The bloodiest ever Gaza war broke out after Hamas's unprecedented attack on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Militants also took 252 hostages, 124 of whom remain in Gaza.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 35,800 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

Israel has also imposed a siege that has deprived Gaza's 2.4 million people of most clean water, food, medicines and fuel.
A British climber and his guide who went missing on Everest after being hit by collapsing ice have not been found despite an extensive search, a guide has revealed.

Daniel Paul Paterson, 40, and Pastenji Sherpa, 23, have not been heard from since they reached the summit at around 4.40am local time on Tuesday.

The pair are now feared dead after ice collapsed and fell on them near the Hillary Step, just below the summit at around 8,800 metres, according to Lapka Sherpa.

The Everest guide said they had 'heroically' reached the top of the world's highest peak before going missing as they descended.

'Despite exhaustive search efforts, we regret to confirm that Daniel and Pastenji were unable to be recovered from following incident,' he wrote on Facebook.

Mr Paterson's partner Beck Woodhead has vowed that she will 'do everything' to bring him home, and yesterday set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for a search and rescue operation.

Daniel Paterson previously said it had always been his dream to 'conquer' the Everest summit. Pictured right: Pas Tenji Sherpa, 23

Mr Paterson with his partner Beck Woodhead, who has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for a search and rescue operation

The research nurse said that her partner 'is known for his adventurous spirit, his kindness, and his unwavering dedication to helping others,' as she issued a plea saying: 'Now, it is our turn to help him.'

She described him as a passionate Leeds United fan, as well as a 'beloved son, brother, partner, friend and a proud joint owner of Wakefield Crossfit.'

The British climber, who is believed to be from Wakefield, was described by Sherpa Lapka as being 'known for his robust fitness, uplifting positivity, and strong determination'.

The missing men were part of a 15-strong team with 8K Expeditions, led by Bolivian climber David Hugo Ayaviri Quispe.

Sherpa Lapka said his collague Pastenji was a 'dedicated climber from his youth, with impressive climbs under his belt including twice on Mt. Everest, K2, Amadablam, and several other 6,000m peaks.'

'His warm spirit, kindness, and outstanding expertise made him one of the premier guides at 8K Expeditions,' he added.

Mr Paterson was also a 'committed' climber, and had trained in the Himalayas last year.

Missing Daniel Paul Paterson, 40, is pictured on May 11 ahead of his climb to the summit

Mr Paterson, known to his friends as 'Pat', shared his experiences on Instagram.

He previously said he was emotional when he saw the Everest summit, telling his followers: 'My dream will always be to conquer this.'

He dedicated his climb to a late friend from Wakefield Crossfield Club and recently announced that members had raised 10,000 for her family.

The fitness enthusiast then posted two weeks ago to say he was 'waiting impatiently for a summit window'.

The fitness enthusiast dedicated his climb to a late friend from Wakefield Crossfield Club, and recently announced the group had raised 10,000 for her family

Officials said this week that a window of calm weather over the past few days has seen an influx of climbers heading to the summit, but that this would close by the end of the week.

Nepal is home to eight of the world's 14 peaks over 8,000 metres (26,246 feet) and welcomes hundreds of adventurers each spring climbing season.

Everest is only climbable in the short windows of clear weather when the winds are calm.

As climbers can only summit in small weather windows, queues can form on the mountain which substantially increases the risk

This has led to long queues forming at challenging sections, leaving climbers waiting in the freezing cold and burning through their valuable oxygen supplies.

Earlier this month, Mongolian climbers Usukhjargal Tsedendamba, 53, and Purevsuren Lkhagvajav, 31, went missing on Everest.

The pair, who had not relied on sherpa guides, were found dead a week later at two different locations after summiting the peak.
The bodies of three Israeli hostages taken by Hamas terrorists amid the October 7 attacks were retrieved overnight from Gaza following a joint operation by IDF and the Shin Bet security service (ISA), it has been revealed.

Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum and Oryon Hernandez-Radoux were abducted from the Supernova music festival and the Mefalsim intersection just one mile away from the Gaza border on October 7, and were subsequently murdered by Hamas, Israeli officials said today.

Hernandez-Radoux, 30, was the boyfriend of Shani Louk, the 22-year-old German-Israeli girl who became a symbol of the brutal Hamas attack after the world witnessed images of gunmen parading her half-naked body through Gaza on the back of a pick-up truck.

Their bodies were reportedly located by the IDF and ISA and recovered from a location in Jabalia, north of Gaza city, following a bitter firefight.

IDF representatives notified the families of the deceased today after their identities were confirmed by medical officials at the Israeli National Forensic Institute and the Israel police.

Oryon Hernandez-Radoux

Hernandez-Radoux was the boyfriend of Shani Louk, the 22-year-old German-Israeli girl who became a symbol of the brutal Hamas attack

Shani Louk and Oryon Hernandez Radoux

Shani Louk is pictured with Oron Hernandez Radoux

Shocking footage shared on social media showed Palestinian fighters parading Shani's naked body on the back of a pick-up truck

Palestinian militants drive back to the Gaza Strip with the body of Shani Louk, a German-Israeli dual citizen, on October 7

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a volunteer group founded by loved ones of those kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, this morning shared a touching tribute to the three men found dead in Jabalia.

'It is with profound sorrow that the Families Forum bows its head following the announcement of the murder of Michel Nisenbaum, Hanan Yablonka, and Oryon Hernandez Radoux.

'May their memories be a blessing, at the hands of Hamas terrorists.'

'The sorrowful return of Michel, Hanan, and Oryon is another heartbreak for the 125 families of the hostages, who share the pain, sorrow, and endless worry.

'The recovery of their bodies is a silent but resolute reminder that the State of Israel is obligated to immediately dispatch negotiation teams with a clear demand to bring about a deal that will swiftly return all the hostages home: the living for rehabilitation and the murdered for burial, it concluded'.

Hernandez-Radoux was a French-Mexican citizen and resident of Mexico. He had attended the Supernova festival alongside his girlfriend Shani, and their friend Keshet Casarotti, both of whom were subsequently killed by Hamas.

Michel Nisenbaum, 59, was a Brazilian-Israeli citizen who resided in Sderot, just over a mile from the border with Gaza.

A father of two daughters and grandfather of six, Michel was taken hostage when he went to rescue his four-year-old granddaughter who was with her father at the Re'im military base.

Hanan Yablonka, 42, was an Israeli citizen from Tel Aviv, and father to nine-year-old Yarin and 12-year-old Emily. Like so many others, he was taken hostage from the Supernova festival and dragged back to Gaza.

The discovery of the bodies comes one week after the remains of Oryon's partner Shani were retrieved from a tunnel in Jabalia.

Shani was seen dancing at the Nova Festival, where she was one of 364 people slaughtered by Hamas

Shani Louk and Oryon Hernandez Radoux

A drone view shows mourners during the funeral of German-Israeli Shani Louk, who was killed in the October 7 attack by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Srigim, Israel, May 19, 2024

Atim Louk (L) is among the pall bearers carrying the casket of his sister Shani Louk on May 19, 2024 in Srigim-Li On, Israel

Ricarda Louk places a flower on the grave of her daughter Shani Louk on May 19, 2024 in Srigim-Li On, Israel

Shani's remains were found alongside the bodies of Itzhak Gelerenter, 57 and Amit Buskila, 28, in a similar night-time raid last week.

All three attended the Supernova festival near kibbutz Re'im on October 7, one of the first sites to be attacked by Hamas on its deadly incursion into Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the deaths of the three revellers 'heartbreaking,' adding: 'We will return all of our hostages, both the living and the dead.'

Shani was seen dancing at the Nova Festival hours before the Hamas attack.

Her father spoke out in defence of the award given to an AP photographer who captured the chilling moment the half-naked body of his 22-year-old daughter was paraded across Gaza by Hamas.

His remarks come after friends said they were shocked that the photograph had won the prestigious award and were in tears.

The decision to award AP photographer Ali Mahmud the oldest photojournalism gong by Reynolds Journalism Institute earlier this month, where he placed first in 'Team Picture Story of the Year,' sparked outrage.

Shani was one of the roughly 1,200 people killed on October 7 by Hamas

Shani with her mother Ricarda (pictured, left)

Amit Buskila (pictured) was also found dead in Gaza

Itzhak Gelerenter was found by the IDF

The photo depicts five armed Hamas members in a pickup truck, one of whom is resting his feet on murdered Louk's limp, mutilated body. Further footage shows the terrorists parading her body in Gaza amidst cheering crowds with one spitting on her remains.

But Louk's father, Nissim, said: 'It's good that the photo won the prize'.

'This is one of the most important photos in the last 50 years,' he told Ynet.

He expressed a firm belief that his daughter's photograph will leave a mark on human history, considering it a symbol of the current era and hopefully serving as documentation for generations to come.

'These are some of the photos that shape human memory, the Jew raising his hands, the paratroopers at the Western Wall, photos that symbolise an era,' he continued.

'This documentation of Shani, and of Noa Argamani on the motorcycle, they symbolise this era. I think it's a good thing to use it to inform the future.'

'If I start crying, what will come of it? This is history. In 100 years they will look and know what happened here. I travel the world and everyone knows who Shani is,' he told Ynet.

But Shani's mother Ricarda said she was horrified by the picture, saying it forced her and her family to relive the trauma of losing their loved one.
A soldier fractured a comrade's cheekbone by punching him in a furious rage after he threw a sausage through his bedroom window in a Grange Hill-style prank.

Lance Corporal Shaun Integrity, 32, was demoted and jailed after he lost his temper when the sausage was launched through his window during a barracks barbecue, in an incident reminiscent of the famous opening sequence of the eighties BBC kids show - during which a sausage on a fork is hurled across a room.

Integrity, who appealed his conviction earlier this week, had been drinking with others at Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) barracks in Hampshire in July 2022, but had gone back to his room when the banger flew in from outside late at night.

Furious, he went downstairs to confront the culprit, and punched Craftsman Rowan Young so hard that it smashed his cheekbone in several places.

Lance Corporal Shaun Integrity (pictured) flew into a rage and punched his comrade after he threw a sausage through his bedroom window

Integrity, a soldier in the 14th Armoured Company REME, was convicted at a court martial in March last year for assault occasioning actual bodily harm and was sentenced to 90 days' service detention.

He was also busted down to the rank of private and ordered to pay 750 compensation to his sausage-throwing comrade.

This week, he challenged his conviction, but three senior judges sitting at the Court of Appeal in London rejected his 'unarguable' case.

Giving judgment, Lady Justice Macur said Integrity was at Delhi Barracks, Tidworth, when the incident happened.

At around 10pm, Craftsman Young, who had been drinking, and others were outside the accommodation block, egging each other on to throw items from the barbecue.

'Craftsman Young decided that it would be funny to throw a sausage into the window of a nearby room in the block,' she said.

'He then proceeded to throw it into Shaun Integrity's room.'

The prank was reminiscent of the famous opening sequence of the eighties BBC kids show Grange Hill, during which a sausage on a fork is hurled across a room

Integrity was at Delhi Barracks, Tidworth (pictured above) when the incident took place. The Court of Appeal has upheld his conviction, concluding that the punch had 'caused significant injuries'

Enraged, Integrity went downstairs, walked up to Craftsman Young and 'punched him once to the left side of the face.'

'This was a punch that caused significant damage,' she said, with Craftsman Young left nursing 'multiple fractures' to his face.

Despite that, he went up to Integrity's room and apologised for throwing the sausage.

The attack was reported, with Craftsman Young later describing being struck with a 'right hook' while he stood with his arms by his side and not moving.

At his trial, Integrity claimed self-defence, saying he had felt surrounded by others outside and that he struck out when Craftsman Young made a quick move.

But he was convicted and sentenced to time in custody and a reduction in rank.

At the Court of Appeal, his lawyers argued that the conviction was 'arguably unsafe' because of the way the court martial board were directed about how to consider his self-defence claim.

Upholding the conviction, Lady Justice Macur, Mr Justice Jay and Mrs Justice Foster said nothing had gone wrong at the trial.

'The appellant conceded that the punch caused significant injuries,' she concluded.
Brits heading for Majorca this Bank Holiday weekend are facing major disruption as thousands of people take to the streets to protest about tourist saturation.

The popular holiday island is the latest Spanish destination to see demonstrations, following on from Tenerife and the other Canary islands last month.

The protests will be held on Saturday evening, starting at 7pm, and will be centred on the capital of Palma.

Organisers say they are astounded by the number of groups and organisations which have pledged their support.

'Initially, we thought there would be about 2,000 people but now it is going to be considerably more,' said a spokesman for the organising group, Banc de Temps de Sencelles.

Thousands of people demonstrate against tourism policies on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain on April 20, 2024

British holidaymakers could face holiday chaos this summer as Majorcans crank up their anti-tourism campaign by threatening to block the island's airport and protest outside hotels (pictured: holidaymakers partying in Majorca)

Shops in tourist hotspots like Magaluf have been banned from selling alcohol between 9.30pm and 8am since 2020 as part of legislation that the government claimed was the first of its kind

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The main focus of the march will be the difficulty local people have in affording homes on Majorca due to the higher prices owners can get for holiday rentals.

But the protestors will also spotlight on all other aspects of mass tourism which they say is ruining the island.

Last week, a group under the slogan 'Mes turisme, menys vida', which translates to 'More tourism, less life' said it intended to cause chaos at Palma Airport over the coming weekend.

Tourist saturation has become the biggest single topic on Majorca over the last few months.

While residents understand that tourism is vital for local economies, patience is wearing thin.

Locals say there is traffic congestion, overcrowded beaches, blocked access roads, ruined beauty spots and just too many holiday-makers flocking to the island.

Anti-tourism sentiment in Spain

In Spain - the world's second most visited country - anti-tourist sentiment appears to have grown, particularly in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Of Spain's 85 million tourists in 2023, 14.4 million and 13.9 million foreigners travelled to the Balearic and Canary Islands respectively. The visitor figures are a stark contrast with the number of people who actually call the islands their home. According to 2019 figures, just 1.2 million people live across the Balearic Islands, and 2.2 million people live on the Canary Islands. With locals feeling their way of life is coming increasingly under pressure, discontent has come to a head in several forms this year. Advertisement

Mes is calling for a reduction in the number of flights at Palma airport, saying: 'Majorca is no longer overcrowded, Majorca is experiencing collapse. You cannot have airports that, year after year, break records.'

The Balearic government says it is willing to change the tourist model and has started a round of talks with the public. As yet, no concrete measures have been agreed.

Banc de Temps de Sencelles has labelled its campaign 'Majorca is not for sale!' and is so surprised by the promised support that it has asked the government to lay on more buses and trains so people from all over the island can attend.

'The demonstration aims to highlight the problem of access to housing in Mallorca, a general problem, but not isolated, because it cannot be separated from tourist saturation, the purchase of properties by foreigners,' said Carme Reynes of Banc de Temps de Sencelles.

The group says the protest will be followed by 'other actions' over the coming weeks.

Local people are particularly angered by traffic jams across the island, including in and out of Palma and have described the centre of the capital as 'unbreathable' in the middle of the tourist season.

Beauty spots are also clogged up, with queues of up to four hours long to some of the beaches and viewpoints.

The Balearic Government held its first meeting on Wednesday to 'lay the foundations for a new tourism model' in the face of the existing 'social unrest' and congestion on the islands.

'The time has come to adopt difficult decisions and transform the tourism model,' said Balearic president, Marga Prohens.

'Tourist Go Home' is seen scrawled in English over a wall underneath a real estate promotion billboard in Nou Llevant, Majorca, a neighbourhood that has seen a massive influx of foreign buyers over the past few years. It is one of many instances of anti-tourism graffiti

Protesters flood the streets of Tenerife last month (pictured), calling on local authorities to temporarily limit visitor numbers to alleviate pressure on the islands' environment, infrastructure and housing stock, and put curbs on property purchases by foreigners

People on a hunger strike sit in wheelchairs during a protest for a change in the tourism model in the Canary Islands, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, last month

She said the Balearic economy has developed until now with a growth pattern based mainly on 'volume and quantity' and that it has been 'incapable' of growing in 'value or quality'.

But she warned the change in model will not be active in one year or two.

'Today we begin to work for a great social and political pact for the social, economic and environmental sustainability of the Balearic Islands,' she said.

'The path to reaching agreements will not be easy but we owe it to the entire society in the face of the current situation of overcrowding of the archipelago and mobility problems.

The Balearic Islands received almost 18 million tourists last year and this year bookings for the summer have increased by 15%, the president confirmed.

The government will launch a macro-survey among residents of the Balearic Islands to find out their opinion, quantify this summer's traffic on the main roads and monitor the influx of visitors to tourist areas and certain natural enclaves.

Protests in Majorca come after more than 50,000 people took to the streets of Tenerife back in April to protest against tourism on the island in the Canaries.

Demonstrators were seeing brandishing 'you enjoy, we suffer' placards, claiming that the huge influx of tourists to the island is causing major environmental damage, driving down wages and squeezing locals out of cheap affordable housing, forcing dozens to live in tents and cars instead.
A boy has been arrested in Sydney's west following a terrifying ordeal which saw him allegedly make threats while armed with a knife on his secondary school campus.

Cambridge Park High School was plunged into lockdown around 12.30pm on Friday after reports a boy began waving a paring knife in the air.

The alarm sent 40 students, who were preparing to leave the library for their next class, running for cover when the boy allegedly walked inside holding the blade.

'I was really scared. When I saw the knife, my heart just dropped,' one pupil said.

Cambridge Park High School was plunged into lockdown around 12.30pm on Friday after reports a boy began waving a paring knife in the air and running across the Western Sydney campus

'(The boy) started to scrape the knife on the glass doors and tap on (them with the blade),' another student told 7NEWS.

Children were huddled in the corners of the darkened library as teachers managed to 'push' the boy out the door.

One student messaged their parents, writing: 'Mum we are in lockdown. Someone just came into the library and he pulled out a knife and held it up in front of me.'

'I ran. I'm scared.'

Other students took cover in the school's hall.

A 12-year-old boy was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station with a knife seized at the location

A 12-year-old boy was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station, with a knife seized at the location.

Police confirmed no one was injured.

'Staff and police acted swiftly to ensure the safety of students. There were no injuries and the school re-opened shortly after,' a NSW Department for Education spokesperson said.

'Supports are available for students and staff.'

The boy has been dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.
A teenage girl is fighting for life and two boys are injured after they were hit by a ute in Melbourne.

The trio were walking along O'Sullivan Road near Glen Waverley Secondary College just after 3pm on Friday when they were run over by the Mitsubishi Triton.

The vehicle stopped nearby and a 44-year-old man from Springvale is assisting police. A passenger who was in the ute has not been found.

A teenage girl is fighting for life and two boys are injured after they were hit by a ute in Melbourne

The teenage girl suffered upper and lower body injuries and is in a critical condition at The Royal Children's Hospital.

One of the teenage boys also has upper and lower body injuries and is in a serious but stable condition at The Alfred hospital.

The other student suffered minor upper body injuries and is being treated at Box Hill Hospital.

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.
Russia's Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine if a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines can be agreed, Russian sources claim.

Three of the sources, familiar with discussions in Putin's entourage, told Reuters the veteran Russian leader had expressed frustration to a small group of advisers about what he views as Western-backed attempts to stymie negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to rule out talks.

'Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire to freeze the war,' said another of the insiders, a senior Russian source who has worked with Putin and has knowledge of top level conversations in the Kremlin.

He, like the others cited in this story, spoke on condition of anonymity given the matter's sensitivity.

Reuters spoke to a total of five people who work with or have worked with Putin at a senior level in the political and business worlds.

The fifth source did not comment on freezing the war at the current frontlines.

Vladimir Putin (pictured on Thursday) is ready to halt the war in Ukraine if a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines can be agreed, Russian sources claim

A map shows Russian-held territory in eastern Ukraine. Russia currently holds about 18 percent of Ukraine's territory and is making marginal gains in the east

Russia continues to bombard civilian centres across Ukraine. Pictured: Officers carry the body of a person, killed during a missile attack in Kharkiv on May 23, 2024

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in response to a request for comment, said the Kremlin chief had repeatedly made clear Russia was open to dialogue to achieve its goals, saying the country did not want an eternal war.

Ukraine's foreign and defence ministries did not respond to questions.

The appointment last week of economist Andrei Belousov as Russia's defence minister was seen by some Western military and political analysts as placing the Russian economy on a permanent war footing in order to win a protracted conflict.

It followed sustained battlefield pressure and territorial advances by Russia in recent weeks.

However, the sources said that Putin, re-elected in March for a new six-year term, would rather use Russia's current momentum to put the war behind him.

They did not directly comment on the new defence minister.

Based on their knowledge of conversations in the upper ranks of the Kremlin, two of the sources said Putin was of the view that gains in the war so far were enough to sell a victory to the Russian people.

Europe's biggest ground conflict since World War Two has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides and led to sweeping Western sanctions on Russia's economy.

Three sources said Putin understood any dramatic new advances would require another nationwide mobilisation, which he didn't want, with one source, who knows the Russian president, saying his popularity dipped after the first mobilisation in September 2022.

Ukrainian troops attend the site of a Russian strike in Kharkiv

Volodymyr Zelensky has pleaded with Western leaders to send aid to Ukraine as Putin continues his invasion

The national call up spooked part of the population in Russia, triggering hundreds of thousands of draft age men to leave the country. Polls showed Putin's popularity falling by several points.

Peskov said Russia had no need for mobilisation and was instead recruiting volunteer contractors to the armed forces. The prospect of a ceasefire, or even peace talks, currently seems remote.

Zelensky has repeatedly said peace on Putin's terms is a non-starter. He has vowed to retake lost territory, including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. He signed a decree in 2022 that formally declared any talks with Putin 'impossible.'

One of the sources predicted no agreement could happen while Zelensky was in power, unless Russia bypassed him and struck a deal with Washington. However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Kyiv last week, told reporters he did not believe Putin was interested in serious negotiations.

Meanwhile, dramatic footage shared online showed a stunning ATACMS Salvo missile launching from Ukraine to strike Russian forces.

The footage, which social media users claim was taken in Donetsk, shows Russian S-400 Surface-to-Air Missile Battery and at least 2 of what are believed to be S-400 Launchers destroyed by the Ukrainian assaults.

This latest development comes after former US President Donald Trump pledged to use his relationship with Putin to get journalist Evan Gershkovich released from his Russian imprisonment.

'Evan Gershkovich, the Reporter from The Wall Street Journal, who is being held by Russia, will be released almost immediately after the Election, but definitely before I assume Office. He will be HOME, SAFE, AND WITH HIS FAMILY,' Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.

Footage shows an ATACMS Salvo missile hitting Russian equipment in what is believed to be the Donetsk region

The Ukrainian strike reportedly destroyed at least two Russian S-400 Launchers

'Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, will do that for me, but not for anyone else, and WE WILL BE PAYING NOTHING!'

Despite Trump's confidence, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed Putin has 'naturally not had contacts with Donald Trump.'

Evan Gershkovich is a Wall Street Journal writer hired shortly before Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine.

On March 29, 2023, he became the first US journalist since the Cold War to be charged with espionage in the country.
She's one of Shakespeare's best known female leads, immortilised by her famous question: 'O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?'

And for Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, starring across Tom Holland's Romeo in the West End would be the role of a lifetime.

But for the 26-year-old actor, composer and musician, it is just the start of a seemingly upward career.

Born in Brighton to a Ghanaian father and Nigerian mother, Francesca started her acting journey training at the National Youth Theatre at the age of 15 before studying Music at Oxford University.

She was the only black person in her college year group, describing it as 'very alienating at first' before she decided to set up a society for students of colour, which produced an adaptation of the ancient Greek tragedy Medea.

The rising star first found fame in her role as Blessing on the British sitcom Bad Education between 2022 and 2024, alongside comedian Jack Whitehall.

A year before appearing on the show, she was awarded the 2021 Evening Standard Future Theatre Award for Audio Design for her work as a composer and she has also starred in a hit show produced by Luther star Idris Elba.

But as a multi-talented artist, now based in Brixton, who also plays piano, guitar, bassoon and djembe drum, Francesca describes herself as 'a bit of an anomaly', seeing as her family are quite unmusical.

Tom Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers pictured in a scene in Romeo & Juliet

Francesca Amewudah-Rivers (centre) playing the character blessing in an episode of Biritsh Sitcom Bad Education

Francesca Amewudah-Rivers (far right) stands alongside Luther star Idris Elba and other co-stars of School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play

Francesca (pictured) started her acting journey training at the National Youth Theatre at the age of 15 before studying Music at Oxford University

As a multi-talented artist who also plays piano, guitar, bassoon and djembe drum, Francesca describes herself as 'a bit of an anomaly'

Growing up in Sussex - first in Horsham and then Piltdown, near Uckfield - Francesca was sent to the co-educational preparatory school, Handcross Park School, in Haywards Heath where fees start at around 18,000 a year.

Her Ghanian-born father, Ayertey, 67, is a successful business consultant and her Nigerian-born mother Rosalind, works as a therapist in London.

Around 10 years ago the family moved into a 1.2million six-bedroom period lodge house in Piltdown near Uckfield, east Sussex.

In 2011 Fran won a triple scholarship - academic, sport and music - to study at the Roedean School, near Brighton.

She thrived at the prestigious all-girls school which counts author Tessa Dahl and actresses Honeysuckle Weeks, Sarah Miles and Rhona Mitra and television producer Verity Lambert as famous alumni.

When she was 14 she won a place at the National Youth Theatre to pursue her interest in drama.

At school she excelled in music, academic studies as well as drama and starred in several school productions. In her final year she was made Head Girl before moving on to study for a degree in music at Oxford.

The their Facebook page, Roedean commented: 'Roedean is hugely proud of the remarkable success of Old Roedeanian, Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, who stars as Juliet alongside Tom Holland's Romeo in Shakespeare's tragedy on the West End.'

In the picture postcard village of Piltdown south of the Ashdown Forest, famous for the Piltdown Man hoax, the family are well-liked.

Francesca (pictured) starred in a play in 2023 that was produced by Luther star Idris Elba

The play named School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play is by, in association with Mark Gordon Pictures and Francesca Moody Productions

Francesca is seen her stood next to Tom Holland after a performance of Romeo and Juliet

One elderly resident said: 'They're lovely. I see his wife [Rosalind] around and she's lovely, very friendly. They live slightly outside the centre but they seem very nice indeed.'

Resident, Charles Carr, said: 'I know Francesca has done very well. Her parents are very proud of her going to Oxford and then following her dream of acting.

'By all accounts she's also a splendid musician as well as being academic - really she has it all.'

Another resident said: 'We don't have many famous residents but she's a shining light. We used to see her visiting with her friends but I haven't seen her for a couple of years now. She must be very busy.'

Francesca last appeared on TV screens in December in Bad Education's 2023 Christmas special, in which she starred alongside Layton Williams and Charlie Wernham and Whitehall himself, who returned for the show for a special cameo.

Speaking about filming the one off special, Francesca told the BBC: 'It was a standout moment of the shoot, especially working with Shay Barclay, our choreographer, and the incredible dancers who helped us realise the Christmas episode.

'It was also really amazing to see all of us actors grow as artists while being thrown into the deep end. We definitely bonded as a team filming that episode.'

Since then the 26-year-old has gone on to become a hit in the world of theatre. She starred in a play in 2023 that was produced by Elba.

The play named School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play is by Jocelyn Bioh in association with Mark Gordon Pictures and Francesca Moody Productions, with Elba joining the team as an associate producer last year.

After having over 50 productions across the US, the play premiered in the UK in June last year at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre and was a hit with critics.

Speaking about the play last year Elba said: 'Jocelyn Bioh is changing the way West African stories are being told on our stages, and I'm proud to see this transfer to a London stage.

'Not only is it incredibly funny, its setting is relatable to the experiences of millions of teenagers all over the world. In the U.S., the play was extended several times, audiences couldn't get enough of it.

'My hope is that new audiences will engage with the show and find their own connections with this unforgettable story and its endearing characters.'

Francesca studied Music at Oxford University before starting her acting career in the world of theatre and TV

Francesca (second from left) last appeared on TV screens in December in Bad Education's 2023 Christmas special

Francesca has starred in the show since 2022 alongside Layton Williams and Charlie Wernham and Jack Whitehall

Earlier this year Francesca was announced as the actress set to play Juliet opposite the Spiderman star in the upcoming production Romeo & Juliet - which kicked off earlier this month at The Duke of York's Theatre.

But just days after the announcement social media was later flooded with a 'barrage of deplorable racial abuse' over the diverse casting.

This lead producer Jamie Lloyd Company to issue a statement defending the 26-year-old actress and decrying the vile abuse she had received.

He wrote: 'Following the announcement of our 'Romeo & Juliet' cast, there has been a barrage of deplorable racial abuse online directed towards a member of our company. This must stop.

'We are working with a remarkable group of artists. We insist that they are free to create work without facing online harassment. We will continue to support and protect everyone in our company at all costs.

'Any abuse will not be tolerated and will be reported. Bullying and harassment have no place online, in our industry or in our wider communities.'

Despite the abuse the latest production of the Shakespeare tragedy has been showered in praise by attendees, who singled out Tom and Francesca as 'amazing' and a 'superb casting'.

Spilling the beans about what audiences can expect, many fans who attended the opening night of the play earlier this month teased that the production was 'violent' and 'creative' with 'unexpected humour' and 'lots of kissing'.

The play also stars Freema Agyeman (Nurse), Michael Balogun (Friar), Tomiwa Edun (Capulet), Mia Jerome (Montague), Daniel Quinn-Toye (Paris), Ray Sesay (Tybalt), Nima Taleghani (Benvolio), Joshua-Alexander Williams (Mercutio), and Callum Heinrich and Kody Mortimer (Camera Operators).

The production is set to run for 12 weeks until August 3, before it will reportedly transfer to Broadway later this year.
A fire broke out at the LG Twin Tower in Seoul early Friday, leaving two people hospitalized, officials said.

The blaze occurred on the 27th floor of the 34-story building in Seoul's Yeouido district at 1:32 a.m., according to fire services.

Fourteen people inside the building fled to safety, and two people were taken to a hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

The fire service mobilized 84 personnel and 24 vehicles on the scene to completely put out the fire about an hour later.

Police and firefighter authorities are looking into the exact cause of the blaze. (Yonhap)
A woman and a man have been shot dead at a home in Perth, with a third person rushed to hospital.

Police were called to Berkeley Crescent in Floreat, in the city's west, about 4.30pm local time on Friday after a gunman opened fire.

One person has been taken to Royal Perth Hospital in a critical condition. All those involved are believed to know each other and cops are treating the incident as being related to domestic violence.

On Saturday morning it was confirmed the third person had died in hospital.

Police were at the scene of the shooting overnight.

'The incident is contained and there are no ongoing threats to the public,' a police spokesman said.

'A large number of police resources are in attendance at the scene.'

Two people have been shot dead in Western Australia and a third was taken to hospital but later died

Police rushed to Berkeley Crescent in the Perth suburb of Floreat on Friday afternoon

A police helicopter was dispatched to the area and was circling overhead as part of the response.

Pictures show several police cars and multiple ambulances on the leafy suburban street as officers stood guard at either end.

A church is located not far from where the shots were fired as is the Floreat Forum shopping centre.

The area remains closed off the public as detectives and forensic officers investigate the scene.

Neighbours described the street as 'friendly' and said a mother and her two adult daughters live at the house, reports The West Australian.

A police helicopter circled overhead at the height of the large scale police operation

One neighbour, David, said his daughter was in the backyard with the family dog and heard gunshots.

'She ran inside and locked the doors and waited until we got home. She said she just knew they were gunshots,' he said.

'She said it was three or four shots.'

'We know the family (at that address) reasonably well and just hope they are OK,' he added.
A top Melbourne circumcision doctor has been banned from performing the operation after he mistakenly amputated two young boys' penises.

Dr Hershel Goldman's licence was restricted by the Medical Board of Australia on April 4 - preventing him from performing the procedure he has done on more than 20,000 occasions.

He is fighting the ban at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), which heard on Thursday that one child was so seriously injured they required a blood transfusion and the other is potentially permanently disfigured, reports The Herald Sun.

The board is allowing Dr Goldman to continue to work as a GP but is standing its ground on disallowing him from performing the operation he specialises in.

He has agreed to not perform circumcisions at religious ceremonies in people's homes, where the two incidents occurred, but wants to be allowed to perform them at his business, Melbourne Circumcision Centre in Noble Park and Cairnlea.

Dr Hershel Goldman is appealing a ban on him performing circumcisions after a 'serious error' led to two boy's having their penises amputated

VCAT heard in one of the incidents those in attendance at the ceremony, some of whom happened to be doctors, stepped in to help the child after a 'significant complication'.

In the second incident it is alleged Dr Goldman did not realise he had amputated the boy's penis.

His parents were later changing the boy's nappy when they noticed something was not right and went to the hospital where the child required a blood transfusion.

Dr Goldman's lawyer told the tribunal he had only amputated the tip of the second boy's penis, however, the child's mother wrote to the tribunal alleging it had been 'amputated at the base'.

The two young boys were seriously injured as a result of the botched procedures (stock image)

Barrister James Stoller said the botched operations weigh heavily on Dr Goldman and that he is so aware of the errors 'he's just not likely to repeat it'.

He said Dr Goldman would be financially ruined if he could not continue his business, which he has been building for decades.

The Medical Board of Australia's barrister Ben Jellis argued that 'money is money' but a patient's injuries would be for life.

'One (of these cases) was a life threatening complication with respect to the blood transfusion, the other was also one that required emergency surgery, potential lifelong disfigurement,' he said.

'We're dealing with the practitioner as he is now, rather than as he was or has been.'

A full VCAT hearing will be held later this year.

On Thursday senior member Ian Proctor reserved his decision on whether to stay the ban in the interim.
Reform UK could cost the Conservatives up to 28 seats at the general election despite Nigel Farage dodging another bid to become an MP, an analysis has found.

The Tories were handed a huge boost in the opening stages of campaigning after Mr Farage announced he would not be standing as a Reform candidate on 4 July.

The Brexit champion, who is honorary president of Reform, revealed he would not be making a return to frontline politics but vowed to 'do my bit to help' the party.

Mr Farage's decision was seen as a huge boost to Rishi Sunak as the PM attempts to overhaul Labour's huge poll lead over the Tories over the next six weeks.

But an analysis of detailed polling data has shown the huge threat Reform still poses to the Conservatives at the general election.

Reform UK could cost the Conservatives up to 28 seats at the general election despite Nigel Farage dodging another bid to become an MP, an analysis has found

The analysis of detailed polling data has shown the huge threat Richard Tice's Reform still poses to the Conservatives at the general election

Mr Farage's decision was seen as a huge boost to Rishi Sunak as the PM, pictured in Belfast today, attempts to overhaul Labour's huge poll lead over the Tories over the next six weeks

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According to the Telegraph, there are 28 seats in which the insurgent party presents a major obstacle to Tory hopes.

YouGov polling data indicates Reform is expected to win more than 20 per cent of the vote in a series of English constituencies across the North and Midlands.

This could see the Richard Tice-led party deny the Conservatives a win by taking a large slice of the right-wing vote, or even leapfrog the Tories and come second, the newspaper reported.

In the Tory-held Boston and Skegness constituency, which is being contested by Mr Tice, one in four voters are expected to support Reform.

The Conservatives are polling at 36 per cent in the Lincolnshire constituency, followed by Labour in second on 28 per cent and Reform third on 25 per cent.

Barnsley South, Doncaster North, Bassetlaw, and Rotherham are other seats that are also high on Reform's target list.

Reform already hold one seat in the House of Commons following the defection of former Conservative deputy chairman Lee Anderson after he lost the Tory whip.

In the Nottinghamshire constituency, Reform are polling at 23 per cent - although this would not be enough to beat Labour, who are polling at 35 per cent.

The Conservatives are fearful that Reform's decision to stand in every seat in England, Wales and Scotland will split the right-wing vote and deliver a huge boost to Labour's chances in many parts of Britain.

At the 2019 general election, the Brexit Party - the precursor to Reform - struck a deal with then-PM Boris Johnson not to stand in Tory-held seats.

Mr Farage insisted he wants to focus on backing Donald Trump 's campaign in the US, as he announced he will not be a candidate for the Commons

Brexit guru Lord Frost 'is free to stand as MP' Lord Frost was last night told he has not been blocked from standing as a Conservative MP, despite being kept off the candidates list. Friends of the former Brexit minister yesterday claimed that he had been barred from standing at the General Election after accusing Rishi Sunak of pursuing 'socialist solutions'. Lord Frost, who was given a peerage by prime minister Boris Johnson in 2020, has previously indicated that he is keen to become an MP, saying: 'The Commons is where you need to be if you want to influence things.' Tory insiders confirmed that Lord Frost had been kept off the approved candidates list after indicating he was unwilling to relinquish his peerage until the election was called. But now that the election is going ahead on July 4, the candidates list has been set aside to allow Conservative Central Office to negotiate directly with constituency associations that have not yet selected an MP about who will stand. The Prime Minister said there was no bar on Lord Frost standing, telling GB News yesterday: 'David Frost has not been blocked from standing as a candidate at the election in July. 'That is just not right.' 'The process only opened on Wednesday night and it takes time for the process to conclude for candidates selection. It is not true to say he has been blocked.' Advertisement

Mr Farage has repeatedly claimed this was a major factor in Mr Johnson securing his 80-seat majority.

The analysis showed there are a further 375 seats where Reform could secure more than 12 per cent of the vote on 4 July.

It was based on YouGov polling produced through a constituency-level MRP study of more than 15,000 voters in late March.

Mr Farage last night claimed he was preparing to launch a campaign next week to stand as an MP before Mr Sunak announced the general election date.

He told GB News: 'I have always said that there will be a moment when I throw my hat in the ring fully into British politics.

'I've also said aged 60, I've got one more card to play and it's about when I play it. I had, to be honest with you, put in place some preparations to launch next week.

'I wonder whether the Conservative Party found out about it.'

Asked to clarify that he was referring to launching a campaign to stand as an MP, he replied: 'Yes, absolutely.'

But Mr Farage admitted the PM had 'wrong-footed' him by calling an election for July 4, which was much earlier than most had expected.

He said: 'What I could not do in the space of six weeks was to find a constituency from scratch and go around the country.'

He added he had not decided which constituency he would run in as of yet as there were 'a variety of options' which he felt he could have gone for.

Despite not running as a candidate, Mr Farage said he would campaign for Reform and stressed his support for party leader Mr Tice.

He added: 'Am I going to be campaigning? Yes. Am I backing Richard Tice? One hunderd per cent I am utterly committed to Reform.

'I believe their agenda is the only one that can actually stop the sense of national decline that we're in.'

Mr Farage is cancelling his GB News show to free up time for campaigning.

In a statement announcing his decision not to stand at the general election, Mr Farage pointed to his focus on getting Donald Trump re-elected as US president.
It's a word no woman wants to hear.

But describing a female colleague at work as 'frumpy' could also count as sex harassment, an employment judge has ruled.

Using the expression, meaning and old-fashioned and unattractive - and usually reserved only for women - may amount to 'unwanted conduct', a tribunal concluded.

As a result, women could successfully sue under equality laws as the comment is 'inherently linked to gender' and has the potential of 'violating their dignity'.

The ruling came in the case of investment firm worker Yuanyuan Zhang who said she had been 'humiliated' after her boss described her choice of outfit as looking like a 'frumpy grandma'.

Although her claim was eventually dismissed because she had waited too long to bring it, the employment tribunal concluded it could 'understand' why she was upset and found 'such a comment was unwanted conduct related to sex'.

Saying that a woman looks 'frumpy' at work could count as sex harassment, an employment judge has ruled (stock photo)

The tribunal in central London heard Ms Zhang worked at as a deputy design director for Greenland Investment from September 2015 until March 2021 and had relocated from China for the role.

In May 2020, deputy HR director Ling Luan confirmed the company would support her application for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK.

However, the hearing was told that in August an 'issue' with the ILR arose which Ms Zhang claimed 'forced her to resign'.

The panel heard she signed a resignation letter after Mr Luan commented on her trousers and suggested she looked like a 'frumpy grandmother/auntie'.

'Ms Zhang says that [Ling Luan] made reference to her trousers and that they made her look like a frumpy grandma,' the hearing was told.

'The conversation was not in English and we accept the words may not translate over exactly.

'It was the tribunal's finding that it was more likely than not that this comment was made.

Investment worker Yuanyuan Zhang told an employment tribunal she had been 'humiliated' after her boss described her choice of outfit as looking like a 'frumpy grandma' (stock photo)

'The fact that [Mr Luan] recalls making a comment about [Ms Zhang]'s clothing and the comment appears to be about how drab they were suggests that it was a comment of the nature she alleges.' Employment Judge Paul Singh said: 'We found that such a comment was unwanted conduct related to sex.

'The very nature of the comment [calling someone frumpy] was inherently linked to gender and we also found that such conduct had the purpose or effect of violating her dignity.

'[Ms Zhang] expresses how humiliated the comment made her feel and we can understand why she says that.' Despite this conclusion, the tribunal found that as incident had taken place in November 2020 and she only lodged her complaint against Mr Luan in July 2021, she was too late for her claim to succeed.

Ms Zhang had claims of unfair dismissal, sex discrimination, sex harassment, victimisation and unlawful reduction from wages thrown out.
The owners of a kebab shop in Wales gave more than 50 of their customers food poisoning, with 11 of them being hospitalised, after serving contaminated food.

The outbreak happened in February 2023 when customers ate food contaminated with shigella bacteria at Abergavennys Marmaris Kebab House in Wales.

Shigella bacteria is extremely contagious and is spread when a person swallows a small amount of it from the stool of someone who is infected.

For example, someone may contract shigella if they eat food prepared by someone who has it and didn't wash their hands.

The main symptom of infection is diarrhoea, often containing blood, but many also experience a fever and stomach pain. Although shigella is not life threatening, people are often hospitalised with it and symptoms last for five to seven days.

The outbreak happened in February 2023 when customers ate food contaminated with shigella bacteria at Abergavennys Marmaris Kebab House in Wales

The takeaway's director, Sami Abdullah, 46, pictured smoking a cigarette outside court

Hassan Saritag, 38, pictured outside Newport Magistrates' Court on Wednesday

Sami Abdullah, the takeaway's director, and his associate Hassan Saritag appeared at Newport Magistrates' Court on Wednesday and both pleaded guilty to placing unsafe food on the market, failing to put in place food safety procedures, and failing to register new owners at the business.

What is shigella infection? Shigella infection (shigellosis) is an intestinal infection caused by a family of bacteria known as shigella. The main sign of shigella infection is diarrhoea, which often is bloody. Shigella is very contagious. It spreads when people swallow small amounts of bacteria from the stool of a person who is infected. For example, this can happen in a child care setting when staff members don't wash their hands well enough after changing diapers or helping toddlers with toilet training. Shigella bacteria can also be passed in infected food and by drinking or swimming in unsafe water. Children under five are most likely to get shigella, but it can occur at any age. A mild case usually clears up on its own within a week but more severe cases often see people hospitalised. Doctors generally prescribe antibiotics and intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. Advertisement

A Monmouthshire council spokesman said that a wide-ranging investigation by council officers was able to 'positively link' the infections to Marmaris after expert advice from Public Health Wales.

At the time of the outbreak Public Health Wales said it was aware of an increase in cases of gastrointestinal illness in Abergavenny believed to be caused by the shigella infection.

Shortly after the outbreak, one person told WalesOnline their family and friends had been through 'horrendous sickness' after contracting shigella following a visit to the takeaway on Friday, February 10 last year.

They said: 'My relatives became incredibly sick on the following Sunday and Monday with symptoms persisting through to the mid-week for one and late week for the other.

'Symptoms included some vomiting, fevers, terrible stomach cramps and blood in their diarrhoea.'

The council spokesman said: 'Further offences for failing to register new owners at the business and failing to maintain a suitable food safety management system also resulted in guilty pleas. The business is now under new ownership.'

Saritag, 38, of Cross Street in Abergavenny, and Abdullah, 46, of Richmond Road in Cwmbran, were told off by District Judge Sophie Toms for speaking in the dock during their court appearance, but it then emerged that Saritag had been translating so his fellow defendant could understand what was being said in court.

The case was adjourned to September and a note was made for a Kurdish interpreter to be booked.
A staffer with Squad member Rashida Tlaib's tried to stop a Fox News reporter from asking her questions about the prospect of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressing the US Congress.

Rep. Tlaib, the lone Palestinian-American in the House of Representatives, has been harshly critical of Israel's response to Hamas brutal assault on the Jewish state on October 7.

Israel is fighting to wipe out Hamas militants who attacked Israel. Palestinian authorities say more than 35,000 people have been killed during Israel's campaign in Gaza.

On Thursday, the Michigan Democrat was walking near the Capitol when Fox News' Chad Pergram approached her.

The video broadcast by the conservative network sees the reporter begin his question: 'What happens if Netanyahu comes-' before the umbrella is shoved in his face, preventing her from being seen by Pergram.

Fox News reporter Chad Pergram attempting to ask Rep. Rashida Tlaib about the prospect of Netanyahu speaking before Congress

Despite attempts to rebuff him, Pergram persisted in what is being dubbed 'Umbrellagate'

When the staffer changes their position, Pergram begins his line of questioning again.

'Ms. Tlaib, what happens if Netanyahu comes to speak? Is that a mistake by the speaker to extend this request? What do you think of the Democratic leaders agreeing to that request as well?,' he asks.

'Would you attend? Would you protest in any form?' Pergram persists.

With the umbrella still being used to obscure the Squad member, Tlaib finally responded.

'I don't know, inviting a war criminal to Congress is a sham. It's shameful,' she said.

A dispute occurs between the Fox crew and Tlaib's staff over whether someone was hit. 'We have it on video, guys,' Pergram says.

During a segment on Bret Baier's show, he labeled the incident 'Umbrellagate.'

Republican U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson said on Thursday that Netanyahu would soon address a joint meeting of Congress amid heightened tension with President Joe Biden over the Israeli leader's handling of the war in Gaza.

Eventually, Pergram was able to get a clear line to Tlaib

In brief remarks, Tlaib called Rep. Benjamin Netanyahu a 'war criminal'

Delivering a keynote speech at the Israeli embassy's annual Independence Day reception, Johnson, the top congressional Republican and a critic of the Democratic president's Israel policy, said it would be 'a strong show of support for the Israeli government in their time of greatest need.'

Such a speech is sure to further anger progressive Democrats critical of Israel's military campaign in Gaza and Biden's support for it. Netanyahu has closely aligned himself with Republicans.

The diplomatic gathering in Washington comes amid strains between Biden and Netanyahu over a U.S. push for Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians in the war against Hamas militants in Gaza.

The embassy gave equal billing to Democratic U.S. Representative Pete Aguilar, who shared the high-profile platform with Johnson at a more subdued event under the shadow of the Gaza war.

'As Americans, we reaffirm our commitment to Israel's sovereignty,' he said.

Speaking first, Johnson said to applause: 'Tonight I'm happy to announce ... we will soon be hosting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Capitol for a joint session of Congress.'

Successive U.S. administration have usually sent a high-level official to the Independence Day receptions.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who in recent months has called the situation in Gaza a 'humanitarian catastrophe' and has urged a ceasefire, delivered last year's keynote, mostly extolling U.S. backing for Israel.

An Israeli official said this year the embassy wanted to honor lawmakers in a bipartisan way in appreciation for congressional approval of billions of dollars in new U.S. military aid.

The reception took place on the same night as a White House state dinner for Kenyan President William Ruto, which the Israeli official said created a scheduling conflict for cabinet members.

Several less senior Biden aides were in attendance, including Derek Chollet, Secretary of State Antony Blinken's counselor.

The White House declined comment when asked whether it was consulted about the invitation to Netanyahu or whether Biden, who has denied an Oval Office meeting to the Israeli leader, might see him in Washington.
Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner joined the party's under-fire Welsh leader Vaughan Gething today as she helped launch his election campaign in the country.

Ms Rayner travelled to Llandudno for an event alongside the new First Minister, just a week after his Senedd power-sharing agreement with Plaid Cymru collapsed.

The nationalists backed out amid concerns over donations worth 200,000 received by Mr Gething for his leadership campaign from businessman David Neal, a convicted polluter who dumped waste on a conservation site.

The situation has strong echoes of that surrounding former Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf, who resigned earlier this month after losing the support of the Scottish Greens for dropping ambitious green policies.

Mr Gething is also at the centre of an internal Welsh Labour row, after firing a senior minister for leaking WhatApp messages suggesting he deliberately deleted evidence of his actions during the Covid pandemic.

Ms Rayner is also facing a controversy of her own. Greater Manchester Police is understood to be investigating potential breaches of electoral law, a failure to pay capital gains tax and whether a single-occupancy council tax discount on a former home was falsely claimed by Sir Keir Starmer's deputy.

Ms Rayner travelled to Llandudno for an event alongside the new First Minister, just a week after his Senedd power-sharing agreement with Plaid Cymru collapsed.

The nationalists backed out amid concerns over donations worth 200,000 received by Mr Gething for his leadership campaign from businessman David Neal, a convicted polluter who dumped waste on a conservation site.

Ms Rayner is also facing a controversy of her own. Greater Manchester Police is understood to be investigating potential breaches of electoral law, a failure to pay capital gains tax and whether a single-occupancy council tax discount on a former home was falsely claimed by Sir Keir Starmer 's deputy.

Chief Constable Stephen Watson last week insisted his officers would examine the claims being made against her 'fairly, impartially' and 'go where the evidence leads us'.

Legal experts say there is no reason for police to pause the probe now campaigning has begun, meaning she  and Labour  could face weeks of uncertainty.

Ms Rayner, in her role as Shadow Housing Secretary, is also the face of Labour's landmark house building policy.
China warned on Friday of war over Taiwan and said it would ramp up countermeasures until 'complete reunification' was achieved, as its forces conducted military drills around the self-ruled island.

Chinese warships and fighter jets encircled Taiwan on the second day of exercises, which Beijng said were for testing its ability to seize the island.

The two-day long menacing war games were a 'strong punishment' for Taiwan following the inauguration of its new president, Lai Ching-te, who is detested in Beijing as a 'separatist'.

Beijing's defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said on Friday that Lai 'has seriously challenged the one-China principle... pushing our compatriots in Taiwan into a perilous situation of war and danger'.

'Every time 'Taiwan independence' provokes us, we will push our countermeasures one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved,' he said.

China releases animation of simulated attacks on Taiwan

The footage, released on Friday, comes on the second day of China's drills around Taiwan

Simulation shows missiles being launched at Taiwanese cities

China, which split with Taiwan at the end of a civil war 75 years ago, claims Taiwan is part of its national territory and the People's Liberation Army routinely sends navy ships and warplanes into the Taiwan Strait and other areas around the island to wear down Taiwan's defences and seek to intimidate its people.

But this week's war games are massive in scale.

The PLA released a map of the intended exercise area which completely surrounds Taiwan's main island concentrating major firepower at five key points, as well as places like Matsu and Kinmen, outlying islands that are closer to the Chinese mainland than Taiwan.

The dispute has long made the Taiwan Strait one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints, and this week's events have sparked fears that China may use military force to bring the island under mainland rule.

The United States, Taiwan's strongest ally, 'strongly' urged China on Thursday to act with restraint. The United Nations called for all sides to avoid escalation.

As the drills got under way, China said they would serve as strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces'.

Footage published by China's military showed soldiers streaming out of a building to battle stations and jets taking off to a rousing martial tune.

China has repeatedly branded Lai a 'dangerous separatist' who would bring 'war and decline' to the island.

In a speech on Thursday, Lai said he would 'stand on the front line' to defend Taiwan, without directly referring to the drills.

Beijing was incensed by his inauguration speech on Monday, in which he hailed a 'glorious' era for Taiwan's democracy.

China publishes a map of the intended scale of the war games, showing how warships and planes will conduct drills in five areas surrounding Taiwan

Taiwanese armoured vehicles roll down a street in Kinmen on Friday after China warned on that Taiwan's leadership was pushing the self-ruled island into a situation of war and danger and that it would go further if provoked, as Beijing conducted military drills around the territory.

Taiwanese military closely monitors China's extensive military exercises around the self-governing island by the army.

Taiwan's Ma Kong (DDG-1805) Kee Lung-class guided-missile destroyer monitors the movement of Chinese destroyer Xi'an at an undisclosed location around the waters of Taiwan.

Taiwan army conduct military exercise following China's large-scale joint military drill around Taiwan

The drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and to the north, south and east of the island, as well as areas around the Taipei-administered islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

Beijing has said the drills will last until Friday but analysts say it could choose to extend the war games or launch missiles near Taiwan, as it did after a visit to the island by then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022.

Taipei's defence ministry said the Chinese military had gotten within 24 nautical miles of Taiwan's main island.

Its coast guard reported on Friday that four Chinese vessels entered the 'restricted waters' of two Taiwanese islands as two other vessels nearby provided support.

Despite the drills happening on their doorstep, life has continued as normal for the 23 million residents of the island, with no overt sign of worry.

The Taiwanese have gotten used to decades of living with Chinese threats, with residents telling Reuters news agency they would carry on with their lives.

China's military exercises 'don't really affect our daily lives. We still have to work to make money,' said Chen Sian-en, a tyre repair shop owner in the southern city of Kaohsiung, home to a major Taiwanese navy base.

Taiwan's former President Tsai Ing-wen (L) and new President Lai Ching-te (R) wave to people during the inauguration ceremony outside the Presidential office building in Taipei, Taiwan on Monday.

'From childhood to adulthood, it means that we've gotten used to (China's) threats,' said Chen, 66, adding that the drills were 'some kind of intimidation tactic' and a 'show of force' from Beijing to Taiwan's new leader.

'They've talked about it so many times, but there hasn't been any real action. If they wanted to take over Taiwan, they would have done it already.'

While Taiwanese media has covered the drills, a lot of their focus has actually been on continuing protests against efforts by the opposition to push legislative reforms, and occasional fighting by lawmakers on the floor of the chamber.

'I feel no reason to be scared,' said Taipei taxi driver Chuang Jun-sung. 'If China really attacks Taiwan, there's nothing Taiwan can do but deal with it.

'But we should still have the guts to fire our missiles back at them.'

China has been infuriated by Lai's inauguration speech on Monday in which he said the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are 'not subordinate to each other', which Beijing has viewed as implying China and Taiwan are two separate countries.

Kinmen resident Tim Chang, 52, said that Beijing has been threatening war for decades. 'If war is bound to happen, if they planned to attack, they would have struck 20, 30 years ago,' he said.

Still, Kaohsiung resident Angeline Liao said that she was personally 'very worried' about the drills. 'If, hypothetically, there were some military (war) activities today, I think I would be the first one to wave the white flag,' she said.

Members of an honor guard hold flags during an inauguration ceremony of Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te in Taipei, Taiwan, Monday.

In China, meanwhile, tourists visiting Pingtan - a Chinese island that is the closest point to Taiwan's main island - told AFP news agency that they saw the separation from Taiwan as only a temporary arrangement.

'We share common roots,' Chen Yan, a 60-year-old woman from Wuhan in central China, said of Taiwan. 'There will definitely be unification,' Chen said, adding that she hoped to visit Taiwan.

'Whether it's our mainland government or the Taiwan government, we all hope for peaceful unification as a common aspiration,' she stressed.

But, Chen said, China could not 'rule out that in the grand scheme of things, we could be forced to (achieve unification) in other ways.'
The mother of a Manchester bombing victim has accused Rishi Sunak of misleading her by agreeing to bring in a new counter-terrorism law before the summer only to call an election hours later that will stop it happening.

Figen Murray met the Prime Minister in Downing Street on Wednesday morning, 16 days and 200 miles after setting off from the spot where her son Martyn Hett, 29, was killed alongside 21 others who attended an Ariana Grande concert in May 2017.

She said that Mr Sunak agreed to get behind 'Martyn's Law' which would require venues and local authorities in the UK to have training requirements and preventative plans against terror attacks.

But just hours after agreeing to get it into law by the summer, Mr Sunak stood in Downing Street and called an election for July 4.

It means that Martyn's Law and other legislation including the smoking ban, will not clear Parliament before it dissolves for the campaign next week.

The Renters Reform Bill, which was expected to pave the way for an end to section 21 no-fault evictions, also looks set to be axed, with campaigners saying tenants have been badly let down in a 'broken renting system'.

Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Ms Murray said: 'We shook hands, he actually agreed, he promised that he will bring it into Parliament before summer recess but he could not guarantee that it's going to be done by the next general election.

Figen Murray met the Prime Minister in Downing Street on Wednesday morning, 16 days and 200 miles after setting off on a walk from the spot where her son Martyn Hett, 29, was killed alongside 21 others who attended an Ariana Grande concert in May 2017.

She said that Mr Sunak agreed to get behind ' Martyn's Law ' which would require venues and local authorities in the UK to have training requirements and preventative plans against terror attacks.

It means that Martyn's Law and other legislation including the smoking ban, will not clear Parliament before it dissolves for the campaign next week.

'We shook hands and he looked me straight me in the eyes, so I don't feel I was being lied to because he at that point knew what he was going to do later that day, but he must have been in a really difficult position.

'However, he could have maybe handled it slightly differently. I feel a bit misled rather than lied to.'

Mr Sunak today said he is 'disappointed' that his flagship Bill banning young people from ever being able to smoke tobacco legally will not pass before Parliament ahead of the General Election.

The shelving of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, as well as his admission that deportation flights to Rwanda would not take off before polling day, leave the Prime Minister's legacy increasingly threadbare.

The Smoking Bill is not included in the legislation that will be rushed through by MPs ahead of Parliament being prorogued on Friday, during a period known as 'wash-up'.

The campaigner later met Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer in Westminster (pictured)

Speaking in Belfast today as part of his whirlwind campaign tour of the UK, Mr Sunak told reporters: 'There's always a normal process at the end of a Parliament to see which legislation you can pass in the time that's available.'

On the smoking ban, he said he was 'of course disappointed not to be able to get that through at the end of the session given the time available'.

'But what I'd say is that's evidence of the bold action that I'm prepared to take. That's the type of Prime Minister I am. That's the type of leadership that I bring.

'I stepped up to do something that is bold, that will make an enormous difference in the future of our country.'

The Bill would make it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born after January 1 2009, with the aim of creating a 'smoke-free' generation.

Wes Streeting, Labour's shadow health secretary, said it would resurrect the policy if it wins the election.

'If Rishi Sunak's idea of bold leadership is to crumble before his party and surrender his landmark smoking bill, it's no wonder the country is in such a mess,' he said.

'Labour remains committed to the policy. We will make sure that young people today are even less likely to smoke than they are to vote Tory.'

The Prime Minister highlighted the passing of legislation to quash the convictions of hundreds of subpostmasters caught up in the Post Office Horizon scandal.

The Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill will receive royal assent on the final sitting day of Parliament before it halts its business ahead of the July 4 General Election.

The Government also promised to schedule a Bill enabling compensation to be paid to the victims of the contaminated blood scandal.

But Labour's shadow housing minister Matthew Pennycook said: 'The Tories' decision to cave in to vested interests and abandon their already weakened Renters Reform Bill leaves in tatters the promises they made to private tenants five years ago.'
Amsterdam police have released video footage of an alleged drug dealer who stabbed a male British tourist in the city's Red Light District in March.

The police has asked the public to help identify the suspect of the violent attack, calling the incident a 'very intense and violent case.'

According to local news outlet, AT5, the British man and his girlfiend were walking back to their hotel on March 23 after visiting a pub, when a dealer approached them, asking them if they wanted to buy drugs.

In the video, the attacker can be seen turning aggressive after the couple declined his offer to sell them drugs.

The woman proceeded to push him away, escalating the altercation.

Her partner then intervened, resulting in him getting stabbed by the dealer.

Amsterdam police release video footage of suspected drug dealer stabbing British tourist following an altercation in the early hours of the morning on March 23 this year.

After the brutal assault, the attacker managed to run away, and disappeared into the crowds of the busy Red Light District.

The british man reportedly sustained serious injuries and spent several days in hospital after undergoing emergency surgery.

This is not the only violent attack endured by a British tourist in Amsterdam.

Back in 2022, British tourist Danny Castledine was fatally slashed and stabbed dozens of times in the face and neck in Amsterdam's city centre.

Danny Castledine, a 22-year-old student at Leeds Beckett University, met a tragic end less than 24 hours after arriving on a weekend trip with his friend in the popular European destination on June 1, 2022

Belgian suspect Nongo B. was allegedly captured in security footage walking with Castledine along the banks of the Singel canal moments before his death

Danny Castledine, a 22-year-old student at Leeds Beckett University, died after the incident on the Singel on June 1, 2022

A 24-year-old Belgian man accused in the stabbing of Castledine was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 14 years in prison earlier this year.

Castledine, a 22-year old student at Leeds Beckett University at the time, met a tragic end less than 24 hours after arriving on a weekend trip with his friend in the popular European destination on June 1, 2022.

The student from Nottinghamshire was found with 30 stab wounds and 14 lacerations, having suffered a violent attack in the early hours of the morning.

Investigators revealed that the suspect, Nongo B., was found to have ingested a large quantity of drugs upon his arrest and had traces of Catledine's blood on his clothing and shoes, leading police to connect him to the crime scene.

Footage revealed by investigators reportedly showed an intoxicated Castledine with Nongo around 2.12am.

The pair were then captured by CCTV by the Singel some 30 minutes later, where Nongo is said to have carried out a savage attack with a blade.

He is said to have dragged Castledine's body to the roadside in an attempt to dispose of evidence before fleeing the scene.

Castledine's body was discovered by horrified revellers around 3.30am, prosecutors said.

Paramedics were called to the scene but were unable to revive the Englishman.
South Korea on Friday unveiled a monument on a southwestern island in hopes of the safe return of five South Koreans abducted by North Korea in the 1970s, in the latest move to raise public awareness of the abductee issue.

North Korean agents kidnapped the five South Korean high school students from the Seonyu and Hong islands off the southwestern coast between 1977 and 1978, and they have yet to return home.

The unification ministry held a ceremony unveiling the monument dedicated to those abductees, named the Monument for Safe Return of Five Teenage Abductees, on Seonyu Island on Friday. A similar event will be held Monday on Hong Island.

The event brought together Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho; Julie Turner, the U.S. special envoy for North Korean human rights; Lee Shin-wha, Seoul's envoy for North Korean human rights; and families of the South Korean victims.

Among the abductees, Kim Young-nam, born in 1961, was the only teen kidnapped by the North in August 1977 from Seonyu Island.

He was married in North Korea to Megumi Yokota, a Japanese kidnapped by North Korean agents in 1977 when she was 13. Yokota is a symbol of the Japanese people abducted by North Korea.

The monument features an image of the five teens returning home while swimming in the sea, aided by star-shaped buoys, a symbol of hope and dreams, the ministry said.

The image of the buoys was created with the motif of three forget-me-nots, a symbol of South Korean abductees, detainees and unrepatriated prisoners of the 1950-53 Korean War.

With the establishment of the monuments, the government hopes to express its strong commitment to resolving the abductee issue and encourage people to join efforts to bring them back home, according to the ministry.

Currently, six South Koreans are being detained in North Korea, including three missionaries  Kim Jung-wook, Choi Chun-gil and Kim Kook-kie  whose whereabouts and fates are unknown.

Separately, 516 South Koreans have yet to return home among an estimated 3,835 people who were kidnapped by North Korea after the Korean War, according to government data.

At least 60,000 prisoners of war (POWs) are also estimated to have not come back home or gone missing after being detained in North Korea. A total of 80 POWs have returned home since 1994, but only nine had been alive as of March. (Yonhap)
Pre-made mashed potato sales soared last year as shoppers looked to save time and money amid the cost of living crisis.

With rising food costs and more workers returning to the office, Tesco said its shoppers bought one million more packs of fresh ready-made mash in 2023 than in 2022.

The supermarket is so overwhelmed by demand it is opening a new multi-million-pound mash factory.

The chain said demand for fresh mash had started to rise shortly before the pandemic, but whole potatoes were more popular in lockdown when Brits had more time to cook from scratch.

However, as lockdown ended and more people returned to work, sales of fresh ready-made mash began to rise again.

With rising food costs and more workers returning to the office, Tesco said its shoppers bought one million more packs of fresh ready-made mash in 2023 than in 2022

The supermarket is opening a new factory near Lincoln, creating 80 jobs, to keep up with soaring demand

Demand increased further through the cost-of-living crisis, with mash seen as an inexpensive and homely old favourite - costing as little as 90p from the supermarket giant.

A 425g pack, which provides two servings, is less than 1 from Tesco and provides a much faster alternative to making mash from scratch.

Mash bought from a supermarket typically contains potatoes, milk, butter, salt and white pepper, and can often be heated within minutes using a microwave.

Tesco said it has worked with Branston, one of the UK's largest potato suppliers, on new gourmet mash recipes and that Branston has opened a new mash factory.

The new facility, near Lincoln, has created 80 jobs to help meet the nation's appetite for the potato dish.

While Tesco said that regular mashed potato is by far its most popular variety, demand for sweet potato mash has rocketed by more than 100 percent in 2023 versus 2022.

A 425g pack, which provides two servings, is less than 1 from Tesco and provides a much faster alternative to making mash from scratch

The supermarket also offers cheddar mash, carrot and swede mash and root vegetable mash.

As office workers continue to return from lengthy periods of working from home, the demand for mash is expected to rise further.

Tesco prepared produce buying manager Alex Edwards said: 'Britain's millions of mash fans should be very excited by the news as our chefs have worked with Branston to excite existing recipes.

'What we're planning to do is to take the mash-eating experience to the next level and make it more of a gourmet food that you'd find in an upmarket restaurant.'

Branston has worked with Tesco food chefs to improve existing recipes, such as root veg mash where increases of parsnip, butter and seasoning aim to add a sweeter and fresher flavour with creaminess.

Branston chief executive Jim Windle said: 'We are proud and very excited to have brought the latest world-class food manufacturing technology alongside restaurant quality recipe design to uplift and elevate one of Britain's best-loved foods.

'Mash is one of Britain's favourite comfort foods that needed a 21st-century makeover to delight and inspire customers across the new range.'
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It's day two on the general election campaign trail with political leaders heading out to all corners of the UK to drum up votes ahead of the vote on July 4.

Rishi Sunak has been in Belfast where he visited a maritime manufacturing facility in Belfasts Titanic Quarter, while Sir Keir Starmer is in Scotland to launch Labour's campaign north of the border.

And Liberal Democrats chief Sir Ed Davey has hit the beach on the south coast where he lapped up an ice cream, no doubt keen to avoid his own 'bacon sandwich moment', in the sunshine.

Our live coverage has now ended
Mystery surrounds the death of a former Royal Marine who was accused of spying for Hong Kong.

Matthew Trickett, 37, was discovered by a member of the public in a park close to his home on 19 May after he was charged with espionage offences.

Six days earlier he appeared in the dock at Westminster Magistrates' Court accused of working for the intelligence services of Hong Kong.

The prosecution had asked for Trickett to be remanded in custody for his own welfare ahead of his next hearing at the Old Bailey, but he was bailed.

The decision was made despite prosecutors warning the court he was suicidal.

At hearing held at the Old Bailey today prosecutors said his cause of death remains unknown and the matter is being reviewed by a coroner in Berkshire.

Matthew Trickett, 37, was found in a park on 19 May after he was charged with espionage offences.

Alistair Richardson told the court: 'It has been widely reported that Matthew Trickett died on 19 May this year. The cause of death is currently given as unexplained.

'His death has been confirmed by the coroner.'

Mr Richardson added that the case against Trickett had been discontinued after he was found in Grenfell Park, Maidenhead.

Kashif Malik, prosecuting, previously told Westminster Magistrates' Court: 'On Saturday morning he attempted to hurt himself, to commit suicide. The custody team intervened and he is now on a 24-hour watch.

'On two separate occasions he told custody sergeants when he is released he will kill himself, he has nothing to live for. How realistic that is, we don't know, but having already tried to harm himself while in prison, he should be remanded in custody for his own safety.'

The private investigator and border official was due to attend court alongside Chi Leung Wai, 38, also known as Peter Wai, and Chung Biu Yuen, 63, also known as Billy Yuen today.

Chi Leung Wai, 38, appearing at the Old Bailey where he is accused of spying for Hong Kong

They are charged with 'assisting a Foreign Intelligence Service between 20 December 2023 and 2 May 2024'.

The allegations against them include 'agreeing to undertake information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception, that was likely to materially assist a foreign intelligence service'.

While a second says on 1 May 2024, they engaged in prohibited conduct, namely, forcing entry into a UK residential address'.

They were charged under the National Security Act, brought in last year to target those working secretly for hostile states within the UK.

Wai, a UK Border Force officer was based at London Heathrow Airport and is also a City of London special constable.

Former police officer Yuen is an office manager at Hong Kongs Economic and Trade Office in London.

Chung Biu Yuen, 63, is also accused of spying for Hong Kong

Justin Hugheston Roberts, defending Wai, said: The death is a tragedy as far as the defendant is concerned - but there we are.

Wai, of Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, and Yuen, of Hackney, east London, were released on bail on the conditions they abide curfews between 10pm-5am, reporting at relevant police stations, surrendering their passports, do not applying for any international travel documents, do not entering any international travel hubs and do not have any travel documents.

Mr Justice Jeremy Baker told Yuen and Wai they should abide by their bail conditions.

If you do not do so what will be a criminal offence in itself, the judge said.

You could be separately punished and find yourself in custody.

The judge added: It will be in your interest to attend the trial because the judge could decide to proceed in your absence.

Trickett was born in Poole, Dorset, in 1987, and enlisted into the Marines in 2007.

He fought against the Taliban in Afghanistan and Somali pirates in the Red Sea before leaving the military six year later.
A teenager has been awarded 10,000 after undergoing a 'really painful' tooth extraction that could have been avoided if his dentist had noticed the signs of decay earlier.

Toby Parker, who had been visiting the same dentist for more than a decade alleges that while fluoride toothpaste applied was tom his teeth, no decay was ever identified or treated.

He said the extent of the damage was only discovered after his mother took him to a dental hospital in 2021, seeking a second opinion over whether he needed braces.

The decay was so bad that the teen from Stockport, Greater Manchester took legal action against his dentist and has been awarded 10,000.

But the extraction has left him missing a tooth and unable to eat ice cream.

Toby Parker, from Stockport (pictured) was paid 10,000 by his dentist after the then 15-year-old alleged that his dentist of ten years failed to notice problems with his teeth

Tom, who was 15 at the time and had been a patient at his dentist for most of his life said he is disappointed at the mistakes his dentist made and frustrated it was only discovered after a trip to the hospital.

The now 18-year-old said: 'The hospital diagnosed decay in a few of my teeth, which was luckily caught before it got worse.

'I also have hypomineralisation where the enamel on my teeth is soft and more prone to decay than normal.

'They advised on a suitable treatment plan to have one of my teeth extracted, as well as fillings on three others.'

He that claims while he had had strong fluoride paste applied to several of his teeth by his dentist, no decay was ever identified or treated.

Frustrated at having to undergo the 'really painful' tooth extraction after the state of decay was uncovered, Toby and his parents contacted the Dental Law Partnership in 2021.

Further analysis led the Dental Law Partnership to claim years of undiagnosed decay had been left unchecked without treatment when it should have been spotted and treated in 2018.

The law firm alleged that this led to the significant deterioration of Toby's teeth and the loss of the tooth that was extracted.

Toby added: 'I'm now missing a tooth which I should've had for the rest of my life. It's annoying and now my teeth are so sensitive I can't eat cold things like ice cream.

'But more importantly, it's the shock of the whole thing and disappointment at the mistakes the dentist made at a crucial point of time in my life, especially after the amount of trust I put into him as a child.

'It's really not pleasant when you find out the person you trusted for years has let you down, and I'm now scared of going back to the dentist.'

Poppy Heslop, of the Dental Law Partnership, said: 'The distress and pain our client has experienced was completely unnecessary. If the dentist involved had provided more satisfactory treatment, his problems could have been avoided.'

The Dental Law Partnership took on Toby's case in 2021. The case was successfully settled in February 2024 when he was paid 10,000 in an out-of-court settlement.

The dentist involved did not admit liability.
A road-rage driver who was filmed screaming at a terrified female motorist after she beeped him for cutting her up was today told to take an anger management course.

Peter Abbott, 60, got out of his car, approached Samantha Isaacs outside a Tesco petrol station in Bournemouth, Dorset and started banging on her windscreen.

The driver then launched into a foul-mouthed tirade where he branded frightened mother-of-three Mrs Isaacs, 56, who runs a TV production and has worked with Prince William and Alan Titchmarsh, a 'f***ing tart', 'slag' and 'whore'.

Abbott was spared jail at Poole Magistrates' Court today for using threatening words or behaviour to cause alarm, distress or fear of violence after blaming his temper on being 'isolated' due to his work as a translator at home. But he was ordered to attend an anger management programme and pay 300 compensation to Mrs Isaacs.

Abbott told the court he had been 'isolated for quite a long time' because his work sees him often spend weeks 'holed up in my apartment in front of the computer'.

He added that he struggled with relationships and had no contact with any friends or family at the time of the incident, and should have sought counselling for his temper.

But District Judge Orla Austin said: 'This was an extremely serious matter. Mrs Isaacs was a lone female in her car, it was a sustained incident, your level of anger and aggression was extremely high and your language was extremely offensive.

Road rage driver Peter Abbott was filmed screaming at mother-of-three Samantha Isaacs outside a Tesco petrol station in Bournemouth, Dorset, on August 25 last year

Peter Abbott leaving Poole Magistrates' Court today after being spared an immediate jail term

The victim, mother-of-three Samantha Isaacs, is pictured outside Poole Magistrates' Court

Mrs Isaacs was leaving the petrol station (shown with the green arrow in the picture above), when Abbott pulled out in front of her (red arrow) causing her to slam on her brakes

'You put her in significant fear and it has had an ongoing effect on her life and bystanders who intervened.'

The road rage incident happened when Mrs Isaacs was leaving the petrol station at the Tesco Extra just before lunchtime on August 25 last year.

Self-employed translator, Abbott, who had been shopping in the main store, pulled out in front of her - causing her to slam on her brakes.

Mrs Isaacs honked her horn, prompting Abbott to make rude gestures at her before stopping his Toyota car and getting out.

Video footage filmed by Mrs Isaacs showed he shouted at her: 'Can you f**king see me, you f**king tart?' He then called her a 'slag' and a 'whore' and put his head up against the windscreen.

A male motorist went to intervene and called Abbott a bully. The man also told him: 'What is wrong with you? It's a woman on her own.'

But Abbott replied: 'She's a f**king bloody annoying woman'.

Peter Abbott outside Poole Magistrates' Court today, where he was given a suspended jail term

During the trial, Mrs Isaacs told the court: 'I had just pulled out and a car came out of the shopping area and completely cut me up to the point where I had to slam on my brakes so hard all my belongings came off the passenger seat onto the floor.

'I beeped my horn as if to say 'look out' type of thing. He turned round in the car and started gesticulating, then he got out of the car and started shouting at me.

'He was banging with both his fists on the windscreen and my door. I was frightened so I started videoing it.'

Robert Salame, prosecuting, read a victim impact statement from Mrs Isaacs which said: 'I don't trust any motorist now. My confidence in driving has taken a huge knock.

'Considering I drove 30,000 miles a year for work, I am now turning away work that is further afield. I am so angry he has taken my job pleasure away from me. I am scared all the time when I drive now.'

Abbott was described as a 'bookish' man in court but he accepted that he also had a problem with his temper that needed addressing.

Video footage filmed by Mrs Isaacs showed Abbot shouted at her: 'Can you f**king see me?'

Representing himself, he said: 'I have been isolated for quite a long time due to the nature of my work.

'I'm a translator, written documents only so I spend a large number of hours, days and weeks, holed up in my apartment in front of the computer.

'Since I have been back in the UK I have noticed that my relationships with people have been an issue. At the time of the incident I didn't have any contact with friends or family.

'I knew I had a problem with my temper before this.

'If I had been sensible I would have sought some kind of counselling before but I have always put my work ahead of everything else.'

Abbott said he regretted his part in the incident, but claimed the media coverage of the case had 'destroyed' his professional career.

The 60-year-old banged on her windscreen with his fists before unleashing the tirade

He added: 'I have always expressed regret and remorse for my part in the incident and fully hold my hands up to that and realise it was wrong and I am prepared to accept the consequences of that behaviour.'

A reference from a long-term friend who is a professor described Abbott as a 'peaceful, introverted and bookish man'.

Abbott, from Bournemouth, had denied using threatening words or behaviour to cause alarm, distress or fear of violence but was found guilty after a trial.

He was given a 12-week prison sentence suspended for 18 months. Abbott was also banned from driving for 18 months and ordered to pay 300 trial costs.
The Landon School has denied accusations and reported incidents of its own

The parents of the Washington, DC high school athlete who died by suicide have launched a wrongful death lawsuit against his private school.

Charlie Schnell, 16, took his own life in March 2022 after facing extreme bullying and threats of violence after a classmate accused him of making a racist drawing, according to his parents, Dawn and Scott Schnell.

The heartbroken parents say their only son never got a chance to respond to the allegations.

Charlie also faced disciplinary action for a separate incident and was given the choice to either withdraw or be expelled with no option for appeal at the Landon School in Bethesda.

He died 13 days later after choosing to withdraw from the all-boys school.

Charlie Schnell, 16, took his own life in March 2022 after facing extreme bullying and threats of violence after a classmate accused him of making a racist drawing, according to his parents Dawn and Scott Schnell

On January 4, the parents revealed that they had filed a lawsuit against the school in hopes to hold them accountable and requested their son's friends to reveal any information about Charlie they

On January 4, the parents revealed that they had filed a lawsuit against the school in hopes to hold them accountable and requested their son's friends reveal any information about Charlie they may have on Instagram.

'Our lawsuit focuses on the duty Landon had to protect all of its students, including Charlie.

'You all know how much Charlie loves his friends, and that he would want his death to lead to protections for each of you and other kids in the future,' the post read.

According to the Washington Post, the Schnells' attorneys wrote in court filings: 'Suicide was the foreseeable consequence of egregious failures by defendants to protect him from harm and to warn his parents of such harm.'

The parents also said that another student had threatened a mass shooting and Charlie wrote a journal entry saying he was worried - which they found months after he died.

They allege that his English teacher read the entry but never informed them or the school that Charlie was struggling.

The parents also said that another student had threatened a mass shooting and Charlie wrote a journal entry saying he was worried - which they found months after he died

'Every day, I wake up, and he dies again. There's not a day that we don't think of him, that I don't think of him. If I could do one thing in my life over, it would be not sending him there,' Scott (pictured left) said

Court documents also state that the high schooler had drawn what they characterized as a violent image directed at black people and showed it to a black classmate.

A copy or description of the image has not been attached to the filings.

'Landon failed Charlie so many times through the sophomore year. Sophomore year was hell.

'Our biggest mistake was sending Charlie to Landon,' Dawn Schnell told NBC.

'Every day, I wake up, and he dies again. There's not a day that we don't think of him, that I don't think of him.

'If I could do one thing in my life over, it would be not sending him there,' Scott added.

Court documents also state that the high schooler had drawn what they characterized as a violent image directed at black people and showed it to a black classmate

The Landon School has denied all such accusations and released a statement of its own

But the Landon School has denied all such accusations and released a statement of its own.

'At Landon, we have no higher duty than supporting the well-being of our boys, a role we take very seriously. We continue to feel only compassion for the grief that this family is experiencing over the devastating loss of their son.

'And while we strongly disagree with the claims and characterizations made in their lawsuit, we will continue to navigate this situation with respect, compassion, and sensitivity,' a school spokesperson said.

Landon has also alleged in the lawsuit that while with a group of school students, Charlie yelled out the homophobic term.

Later, he and another student also exchanged words, leading to a fight.

The Landon School is a private school in Bethesda for boys in grades three through 12.
A trailblazing Royal Navy sailor who once met Princess Anne raped a 19-year-old after 'preying on lone, drunk females' in a nightclub, a court has heard.

Sebastine Kava Liliu, 24  the first Solomon Islander to join the Navy  spent two-and-a-half hours 'observing the scene' in the club to identify vulnerable women.

The award-winning recruit pounced after approaching his 'very drunk' victim and luring her out of the nightclub and into nearby bushes.

Kava Liliu, a member of the navy's Logistics branch at the time, fled the scene but returned moments later for his cap, the court heard.

Shocking CCTV footage shows the woman stumbling to her feet after the depraved assault, at around 1.15am on February 11. With seemingly callous regard for his 'distressed' victim, Kava Liliu simply retrieved his hat and took a taxi back to his ship. He admitted rape at Portsmouth crown court last week.

Sebastine Kava Liliu, 24  the first Solomon Islander to join the Navy  spent two-and-a-half hours 'observing the scene' in the club to identify vulnerable women

Police were able to snare the rapist as he had told his victim his name, which she was able to report to officers

The appalling crime came little more than a year after he was photographed meeting Princess Anne, in April 2023, during a Passing Out Parade at HMS Raleigh, the Navy's basic training facility in Torpoint, Cornwall.

He was selected to meet the senior royal  who has held the rank of Admiral since 2012  as the first person from the Solomon Islands to join the Navy.

But Prosecutor Rob Harding told the court Kava Liliu would go on to attack the young woman just yards away from the Astoria nightclub, in Portsmouth.

He said: 'It would appear the defendant was out that evening, planning on isolating a drunk female for his own sexual gratification.

'The evidence being his predatory behaviour and his actions which constitute the offence.

'Also out, was the victim, who had been out enjoying herself and consuming alcohol and was not in a fit state.'

Kava Liliu was said to have entered the nightclub as a 'lone male' and stood 'observing the scene', 'preying on lone, drunk females'.

'Recognising the state the victim was in, he approached her and eventually managed to get her out of the nightclub,' Mr Harding added.

'Put simply, he then proceeded to take her into nearby bushes and raped her.'

Mr Harding said the victim was 'isolated' and incapacitated through drink which made her 'particularly vulnerable'.

Kava Liliu was said to have entered the nightclub as a 'lone male' and stood 'observing the scene', 'preying on lone, drunk females'

Chilling CCTV footage captured before the attack shows Kava Liliu following the woman out of one of the club's rooms like he was 'stalking his prey', the prosecutor said.

He was seen again on CCTV getting in a taxi to take him to Victory Gate, the entrance to the city's naval base.

Police were able to snare the rapist as he had told his victim his name. He was later interviewed and accepted what he had done.

In her victim impact statement, the woman said she still suffers flashbacks.

'It is easy to say the physical effects,' she said, 'I no longer feel comfortable in my own skin.

'I lost my dignity and privacy that day.

'The mental effects are going to be hard to grasp - to be out enjoying yourself and lose that when you are at your most vulnerable.

'Luckily, I have people around me who love and care for me who will help, but things are still difficult.'

She said she now suffers from sleepless nights and feels she can't walk outside after dark.

But in a defiant address to her rapist, she said: 'You may have taken my trust in the world and my sense of dignity, but you haven't taken my voice.'

In mitigation, Robert Bryan said Kava Liliu - who sat with his head down as CCTV footage was played to the court - 'may have picked her out' and she was 'vulnerable', but disagreed she was 'particularly vulnerable'.

Arguing that the rape was less pre-planned than the prosecution alleged, he said: 'He accepts she was drunk. To put it bluntly, young people go to nightclubs to meet young people, they don't go to nightclubs planning an attack.'

Kava Liliu previously won plaudits for his history-making place among navy ranks, including the prestigious Sapphire Trophy, which is given to the recruit showing the most progress over the 10-week basic training course.

Second Sea Lord Vice-Admiral Martin Connell congratulated the sailor on X, formerly Twitter, at the time, saying his winning the top prize was 'all the more remarkable given that he swapped his home in the Solomon Islands for a career in the Royal Navy'.

The British High Commission in the Soloman Islands praised Kava Liliu for his 'outstanding performance' during his naval training, adding he had 'inspired many fellow Solomon Islanders who are looking to follow suit'.

Kava Liliu was an active youth member of his local Catholic church before he left the small archipelago in the South Pacific for the UK and his naval training.

A Royal Navy spokesman said: 'The Royal Navy places great importance on maintaining the highest possible standards of behaviour from its personnel at all times and any reports of behaviour that fall short of the Service's standards are taken very seriously.

'Whilst legal proceedings are ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further.'

A spokesman for Princess Anne declined to comment.

Judge Michael Bowes KC adjourned sentencing until next month.
The sleazy adverts used by agents offering huge cash payouts to entice models and influencers into becoming so-called 'yacht girl' escorts at the Cannes Film Festival have been revealed.

These ads, shared in massive WhatsApp groups, see women offered thousands to sleep with billionaire businessmen at the Cannes Film Festival, BILD reports.

The festival is home to a secret escort ring where women's company is bought and sold over WhatsApp by billionaire Arab, Russian and American businessmen.

These agents share sleazy ads to huge groups on the messaging service, offering models as much as 50,000 for one night.

According to BILD, one ad read: 'We are looking for real top models, beautiful girls, amateur models. All nationalities, Latinas preferred.'

Agents share ads in huge WhatsApp groups offering models cash to spend the night with wealthy festival-goers

Yachts are often used to keep dealings between models and billionaire business discreet

Another offered 'top models' 10,000 euros for a day trip to Monaco while a third was willing to pay 'only blonde models' $10,000 a week for a yacht trip

The publication gained access to one of these WhatsApp groups, where adverts are posted, offering women thousands to spend the night with the festival's wealthy attendees.

The adverts demand women to send in photos, alongside their age and weight in a bid to lure models and influencers into the glitzy festivals underwound escort ring.

Many of the adverts, made by agents and paid for by wealthy foreign businessmen, are for so-called 'image jobs', where models are asked to accompany guests to dinner or high-end parties.

Others, however, advertise 'Image+' jobs and see the women receive a cash bonus in exchange for having sex with paying festival goers.

Some women reported having their passports confiscated upon meeting with men at the festival (File image purely for illustrative purposes)

These women often meet their hosts for the first time on-site and receive very little information about the dealings in advance, BILD added.

Startlingly, women often have their passports confiscated and are banned from using mobile phones during their trips, in a bid to prevent the identities of these wealthy men leaking to the public.

'This is not just modern prostitution,' an insider revealed.

'This is also about a lot of black money, there are no bills.

'Young women are often offered 3,000 euros for a dinner, 10,000 euros for a party, and 50,000 euros for a night.'

Last year, an investigation by MailOnline revealed that sex workers from across Europe, known as 'putes de luxes' in France, flock to the annual event to sell their bodies in luxury hotels and yachts.

Models, aspiring actresses and some Instagram influencers are invited to parties or to stay on board superyachts, enjoying champagne on tap.

But the unwritten expectation in some cases is that so-called 'yacht girls' will have to thank their hosts by having sex with them or other guests.

Unlike the WhatsApp groups where escorts often know how much they will receive in advance, these women are often handed an envelope filled with cash once their visit is over.

One escort, hailing from Slovakia, told MailOnline: 'You have to be careful because the hotels don't like it going on, but they cannot stop it. This is the oldest industry in the world and the film business is all about glamour and excitement. Of course, people want to have sex.

Yachts are often used as discreet locations for these deals to take place

'I charge 1,000 euros an hour, but there is a discount for two hours or more, and the rate for the whole night is 5,000 euros - but in reality, people often only take a few minutes.

'Then, it is just a question of chatting to them for the rest of the hour if they cannot rise to the occasion again. It doesn't help that they may be drunk or on drugs, unless it is Viagra and then I am in for a hard time.

'The money is no problem if they can afford to stay somewhere like Le Majestic. But what they are paying for is discretion. I would never disclose the name of anyone.'

One yacht crew member told MailOnline that the use of these vessels for prostitution has become 'much more discreet' in recent years.

He said: 'I guess nobody wants to be seen openly buying or selling sex. You might want to have beautiful women on your yacht, but you don't want to be seen as a sleazy old man taking advantage of girls.

'Another factor is the sanctions against Russia because of the war in Ukraine. It has meant that Russian oligarchs have disappeared from European waters. Those guys knew how to party.

'The term 'yacht girl' also seems to have changed in recent years. I have heard it being used to describe any woman hanging out with a rich man, whether it is on a boat or some place in a resort.'
A teenage girl has miraculously survived a car accident which almost left her paralyzed.

Aleah Orr, a 16-year-old from Rigby, Idaho, was on her way to the Mike Walker Boat Dock to go fishing on May 12, her mother's birthday and Mother's Day, when she collided with a guard rail.

'She missed her turn and her (GPS) maps dinged and said she missed her turn and she looked at her maps,' her mother Sarah told East Idaho News.

'Next thing she knew, she hit the guardrail  and the speed limit out there is 55 so it's high speed  and (flipped her car) like 50 feet  she landed feet from the river.'

Had it not been for the way her seat was positioned during the crash, Aleah could have been left paralyzed.

Aleah Orr, a 16-year-old from Rigby, Idaho, was on her way to the Mike Walker Boat Dock to go fishing when the accident occurred

'She missed her turn and her (GPS) maps dinged and said she missed her turn and she looked at her maps,' her mother told East Idaho News

The impact shoved Aleah's seat flat, leaving her tilted slightly to the right. Wedged against the backseat, her neck and head strained against the back seat's backrest. She was pinned down by a piece of the car with her seatbelt still fastened as the detached headrest lay beside her.

'She couldn't get out. She said that was the scariest part,' Sarah mentioned. 'She was screaming for help and trying to get up but she couldn't get up.'

A couple driving behind Sarah noticed the dust cloud on the other side of the guard rail. They pulled over, discovered Aleah's car in the ravine, and immediately called 911.

Sarah, whose Aleah's emergency contact, first received word of the crash through a notification on her phone.

Her mother, a firefighter and paramedic herself, called multiple times and didn't receive a response. That's when she got in her car, called 911, and drove to the boat dock.

'(Dispatch) said there was a report of a crash,' Sarah recalled. 'My first question was was it one or two cars? And my second question was is she in the river? They verified she was not.'

A woman at the scene called her mother, and reassured her that Aleah was awake and able to communicate.

The calm demeanor of the woman's voice made the incident seem like it wasn't all that serious, Sarah said. When she saw the reality of the situation, she couldn't believe her daughter was alive.

'She was very calm so that eased me thinking okay, it's not so bad, but then when I got there and saw the state of the car, my heart dropped,' she said. 'I've seen less of a crash do more damage or take people's lives.'

The fire department removed Aleah from the wreckage while holding her c-spine, a maneuver that keeps that head still in the rescue process that prevents spinal cord damage.

Had it not been for the way her seat was positioned during the crash, Aleah could have been left paralyzed

A couple driving behind Sarah noticed the dust cloud on the other side of the guard rail. They pulled over, discovered Aleah's car in the ravine, and immediately called 911.

'I think being pinned in the car was a blessing because of her injury that she had,' Sarah said. 'Had she gotten up, she could have done more damage or ultimately paralyzed herself, worst case scenario.'

The crash left her with several injuries, including a broken neck, a damaged left vertebral artery, a lung contusion, head lacerations, and a broken left hand. She was rushed to a nearby hospital before being airlifted to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake to undergo surgery with a specialist

Sarah said: 'Anything to do with the cervical, the higher up the break is, the worse possible outcomes of (being) quadriplegic, unable to breathe, be on a ventilator the rest of your life, type-thing.

'With the initial imaging, the doctor was like, 'She's so lucky. (There's) maybe some contusions on her spinal cord and that's why her limbs are weak right now.''

Surgery saved Aleah's ability to walk by realigning her vertebral artery. Four vertebrae in her neck were fused with pins, stabilizing her spine. Remarkably, she walked just two days later and was discharged from the hospital on Friday.

On top of Aleah's injury, her and her family have overcome several obstacles.

The past year and a half have been a whirlwind of loss for the Orr family. Sarah's husband passed away, followed by the deaths of her husband's best friend (practically an uncle to her children) and a beloved nephew.

Aleah said she believes all of the loved ones she lost were there to protect her during the wreckage.

'Aleah says her cousin took the wheel and said 'Hold on, cousin' and her dad wrapped her up in his wings and kept her safe,' Sarah mentioned. 'She said she said a prayer before anybody got there and after she was done saying prayer, she knew everything would be okay.'

She suffered multiple injuries. including a broken neck at C-4 and C-5, a damaged left vertebral artery, a lung contusion, head lacerations, and a broken left hand

Surgery saved Aleah's ability to walk by realigning her vertebral artery. Four vertebrae in her neck were fused with pins, stabilizing her spine

Remarkably, Aleah walked just two days later and was discharged from the hospital on Friday.

Sarah said she is incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support from her community during these trying times.

'It's amazing how much support you really have when things go bad and I appreciate it,' she said.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help cover Aleah's medical costs.
A 17-year-old killer who stabbed a rival to death with a red Ninja sword he bought from a notorious online knife website is facing a life sentence.

Victim Rahaan Amin, 16, was high on laughing gas in West Ham Park, east London, when the masked killer, who cannot be named, plunged the weapon into his chest before hiding the sword in a nearby tree and fleeing on his bike.

He collapsed groaning: 'Allah help' as an air ambulance flew to the scene on 9 July last year.

Doctors attempted to staple Rahaan's heart together in the park but he died the following day in hospital.

Police found a Snapchat photo the killer sent to a friend before the stabbing showing nine knives lined up on his bed - including the Ninja sword.

Victim Rahaan Amin (pictured), 16, was high on laughing gas in West Ham Park, east London, when the masked killer, who cannot be named, plunged the weapon into his chest

West Ham Park in east London where the fatal stabbing took place on July 9, 2023

He bought the deadly weapons via online knife website DNA Leisure using the name and passport of a friend's father.

The killer denied murder but was convicted by a jury at the Old Bailey today after over 18 hours of hours of deliberation.

Members of Rahaan's family wiped away tears behind their veils as the verdict was announced. The killer pointedly turned towards them and smirked as he was being led to the cells.

Judge Alexia Durran told the jury: 'Some of you may have read in the newspapers that knife crime has gone up 20 per cent.

'You perhaps now have insight as to why you have read those statistics.'

Prosecutor Kate Lumsdon, KC, earlier told the court the defendant and the victim had an ongoing feud in the months leading up to the killing.

Rahaan had previously been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the stabbing of one of the defendant's friends.

A picture of a red Ninja sword similar to the one that was used to stab Rahaan (stock image)

The prosecutor said: 'On Sunday afternoon 9 July 2023 Rahaan Ahmed Amin was in West Ham Park with some friends.

'At about 5.30pm a youth with his face covered, cycled into the park. He cycled up to the group of friends.

'He produced a long red knife from his trousers and stabbed Rahaan Ahmed Amin in the chest.

'Rahaan collapsed. Paramedics were called. He was taken to hospital. There was nothing that can be done. He died the following day.'

The killer got back on to his bicycle and cycled away and a friend was heard shouting 'What did you do that for?' at him as they fled, the court heard.

He dumped the Canada Goose gilet he had been wearing at a friend's house but police recovered it and found traces of Rahaan's blood on it.

Jurors were told few of the friends in the park wanted to tell police what happened.

The 17-year-old of Forest Gate admitted stabbing Rahaan - but claimed he acted in self defence.

He was convicted of murder and will be sentenced on September 7 when he faces an inevitable life sentence.

The judge will then decide whether he should be identified.
By Jung Min-ho

Dozens of residents and members of womens rights groups in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, held a protest Friday calling for the eviction of Park Byung-hwa, an infamous serial rapist who recently moved to the city.

The protesters, mostly women, gathered at Ingye-dong near his residence, as well as many administrative buildings, with signs saying We Strongly Demand Eviction of Park Byung-hwa and Government Responsible for Citizens Safety.

This comes after Park moved into a studio apartment from the neighboring city of Hwaseong, where he faced similar reactions from nearby residents demanding his removal.

Suwon is the city where he sexually assaulted 10 women between 2002 and 2007. He spent 15 years behind bars after being convicted of those charges.

The news about his new residence in Suwon prompted officials to reinforce safety measures, such as installing additional security cameras in and around the building where he lives and increasing the number of police patrols there.

At an emergency meeting held on May 16, Mayor Lee Jae-joon said he would use all means necessary to ensure the safety of all residents.

But some protesters called for legislation to prohibit such ex-convicts from residing in areas near schools and other facilities frequented by young girls.

When such political calls were rising nationwide after the release of Park and Cho Doo-soon, another notorious sex offender, in 2022, the Ministry of Justice said it would propose a bill to restrict where such ex-convicts can reside.

But faced with opposition from the liberal Democratic Party of Korea on grounds of the right to freedom of movement, no such bill has been approved at the National Assembly.
A former Metropolitan Police officer jailed for a series of rapes on a female colleague and 16-year-old girl has lost a Court of Appeal bid to reduce his sentence.

Ex-Pc Adam Provan was jailed for 16 years after he was convicted of a total of eight rapes against two women, including one female police officer.

Wood Green Crown Court previously heard how Provan's predatory behaviour dated back to the 1990s and that he was obsessed with young women, having more than 700 female contacts on his mobile phone.

Jurors were told that between 2003 and 2005 he repeatedly raped the officer and in 2010 Provan lied about his age and invited a then 16-year-old on a cinema date, but instead raped her in the woods and in a children's playground.

Following his conviction, Provan, then 44, was jailed last August for 16 years with a further eight years on extended licence.

Former Met Police officer Adam Provan has lost a Court of Appeal bid to reduce his 16 year sentence

Provan (pictured leaving court last year) was jailed after he was convicted of a total of eight rapes against two women, including one female police officer and a 16-year-old

At the Court of Appeal in London today, lawyers for Provan made a bid to challenge his sentence as 'manifestly excessive'.

They also argued the sentencing judge was wrong to find Provan is a dangerous offender.

But three judges dismissed Provan's bid to appeal against his sentence on both grounds.

Judge Dennis Watson KC, sitting with Lord Justice William Davis and Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb, said the sentencing judge's decision 'was based on an assessment of matters in the round'.

Judge Watson continued: 'The judge took all relevant aggravating and mitigating features into account.'

During the sentencing last year, Judge Noel Lucas KC said it was 'highly troubling' that complaints by the female officer were not taken seriously.

Wood Green Crown Court previously heard Provan's (pictured) predatory behaviour dated back to the 1990s and that he was obsessed with young women

He also told Provan that he had displayed a 'cold-blooded entitlement to sex' then immediately behaved as if everything was 'completely normal'.

He stated: 'You have shown not the slightest remorse or understanding of what you have put (the female officer) through.

Assistant Met Commissioner Louisa Rolfe apologised on behalf of the force and said the officer 'was let down by a system she trusted and was serving'.

Scotland Yard announced a review of Provan's full history while at the force and before he joined, to see whether action could have been taken sooner.
He has since shown signs of recovery, and late on Thursday night woke up

A rodeo star's toddler son has woken up and is talking in hospital three days after he almost drowned playing at their property.

Three-year-old Levi Wright drove his toy tractor into a river about 6pm on Tuesday at their home in Milford, Utah, and vanished under the water.

Levi's mother dove in to save him, then raced him to hospital where doctors restored his heartbeat, but he remained unconscious for days as doctors declared him brain dead.

However, in a heartwarming turn of fortune, Levi began to show signs of progress and tests were scheduled for the weekend to assess his brain function.

Levi Wright (in father's arms), 3, the son of rodeo star Spencer Wright (right), was raced to hospital after driving his toy tractor into a fast-moving river stream

Just Tuesday, the family said Levi's heart was 'beating on its own', but he was not showing signs of rehabilitation

Then late on Thursday night, Levi woke up, according to his mother Kallie Wright, who is by his bedside at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City with her husband Spencer.

'LEVI WOKE UP! I am shook, we don't know much but the doctor said it was okay for me to get excited about that and I AM! My baby is so tough!' she wrote.

'He got a little wild so we had to settle him down again but my heart!'

Kallie later on Friday clarified Levi wasn't 'fully coherent' or talking yet.

'He opened his eyes for a period of time, wiggled with purpose and less like just a reflex as before,' she wrote.

'We still have a very long and tremendous road ahead of us, full of unknowns. Spencer and I felt like he knew we were there and could hear us.'

'He's been pretty sedated since then but has still had small periods of awakeness. He actually woke up during us talking to one of the doctors about his love of excavators and tractors.'

Rodeo group Bronco Riding Nation shared this photo asking its fans to pray for Levi, and promised to donate the proceeds of some of its sales

In an update on Facebook, Levi's mom Kallie shared the good news

Kallie said she was singing Levi's favorite excavator songs and they talked about what they would get up to when he was out of the hospital.

Levi will have an MRI on Friday afternoon and his parents hoped that would tell them more about his condition and prognosis.

Kallie added a few hours earlier that Levi had an MRI scheduled for Friday, which would provide more details about his condition.

Family friend Mindy Sue Clark said Levi's EEG monitor showed activity when his sister Steeley called him on a video chat on Thursday afternoon.

'Same thing happened when we played him the dinosaur sounds from one of his favorite dinosaur books, and then again when Kallie gave him kisses,' she wrote.

Spencer Wright's family is among the most prominent in the history of rodeo, and his father, Bill Wright, was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.

Spencer is ranked 35th in the world, and his siblings are also renowned athletes in the sport.

Late on Thursday night, Levi woke up, according to his mother Kallie Wright, who is by his bedside at Salt Lake City Hospital with her husband Spencer

Kallie added a few hours earlier that Levi had an MRI scheduled for Friday, which would provide more details about his condition

Clark on Wednesday said the family 'received multiple small miracles' and doctors were 'surprised by the strides he has made'.

'He is fevering so they're keeping him really cold which is hard to watch, I can just hear him saying, "Mommy, I'm pretty cold'',' she wrote.

'He is getting an EEG, to monitor any brain activity and we haven't heard much on what they're seeing yet. They've also started him on antibiotics.

'We miss our other babies, Mom hasn't spent a night away from baby until now but Brae and Steeley are in the best hands!

'The doctors and staff here at primaries have been outstanding! We don't know what the future holds, please don't let prayers for my baby dim or his story become old news! Keep praying for him.'

When Levi drove into the river, the person who called 911 frantically told the dispatcher that they couldn't see him under the fast-moving currents.

Kallie realized he had sneaked off and ran to the river, and jumped into the currents to save him, with her friend saying she 'was the one who found him, she got him out'.

When Levi drove into the river, the person who called 911 frantically told the dispatcher that they couldn't see him under the fast-moving currents

Levi snuck away from his family in the toy tractor (pictured), and his mother dove into the river to save him after he disappeared under the currents

A huge response of rescue teams from the Beaver County Sheriff's Office, the Utah Highway Patrol, the Beaver County Search and Rescue team, and Beaver firefighters were quickly on the scene.

The crews administered life-saving efforts before an ambulance raced him to Beaver County hospital, and he was later airlifted to Salt Lake City via helicopter.

Clark told ABC4 at the time that he was being cared for at Salt Lake City Hospital, but unless he makes a dramatic recovery, he was not expected to survive.

'He has a will to breathe, but his sweet little brain was without oxygen too long and there is no coming back from that,' the family said.

'We cuddled him all night and feel strongly that his spirit is no longer with us. We cant be selfish and drag this out for days, he doesnt deserve that.

'Shortly we will stop care and hold him close until his last breath on earth. My Baby, my beans, Mom & Dad love you always and forever!'

Spencer Wright, ranked 35th in the rodeo world rankings, and his family said the outpouring of support they have received 'means the world' to them

Clark previously told Fox13Now that after Levi was admitted to hospital, his uncle had been tickling his feet for a response, that led him to 'open his eyes a few times', however he did not recover further.

'Even though Levi is such a sweet and tender-hearted little boy, he's a boy through and through, he's a cowboy through and through, he's a Wright through and through,' she said at the time.

Clark described Levi as the 'sweetest, kindest little boy,' adding: 'He will tell you he is a T-Rex, and he is as strong as a T-Rex.'

ProRodeo chief executive Tom Glause said in a statement, 'The entire ProRodeo communitys heart aches for the Wright family. We will continue to hold them in our thoughts and prayers.'
On Thursday, researchers at the New England Aquarium issued a stark warning to Memorial Day Weekend beachgoers: watch out for sharks.

In the cold waters off of Massachusetts, scientists have discovered an alarming surge in the number of marine mammals exhibiting massive bites from white sharks.

Only this past week, a fishing charter company informed the aquarium of a large dead minke whale floating in the water near Chatham.

The dead whale had a large bite wound from a white shark.

This past week, a fishing charter company informed the aquarium of a large dead minke whale floating in the water near Chatham. The whale had a white-shark bite

Seals were also discovered that had big shark bites. Scientists at the aquarium warned swimmers to stay away from seals, as they are shark prey

Although the researchers haven't seen a white shark yet, they are confident that they are lurking in the vicinity.

Around this time of year, white sharks return to the inshore waters of New England, where they prey on seals and other mammals through the summer and into the fall.

More than 15 species of shark are known to live and hunt in the New England waters.

John Chilsom, an adjunct scientist in the Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, captured some shocking images of seals with fresh bite marks in Plymouth.

The bites were from white sharks, which scientists are yet to see. However, they are confident that white sharks are currently lurking in the waters off Massachusetts

'Although we haven't seen a white shark just yet this season, we know they're here,' Chilsom said.

He added, 'With beach weather in the forecast and Memorial Day Weekend approaching, this is a good reminder for people to review shark safety guidelines and be shark smart.'

Chilsom urged beachgoers to be vigilant in shallow waters, where sharks are known sometimes to skulk and hunt.

The scientist also stressed the importance of avoiding areas 'where seals are present or schools of fish are visible.'

Chilsom's final advice was for swimmers to keep close to the shore, where emergency responders have the ability to reach you should the occasion arise.

John Chilsom, an adjunct scientist in the Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, urged swimmers to remain close to the shore, where emergency responders would be able to reach them

The aquarium observed that the public can report sightings and remain up-to-date on shark activity through the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy's Sharktivity app.

Sharktivity offers users 'information and push notifications on white shark sightings, detections, and movements to raise awareness and help people and sharks co-exist.'

In 2023, the number of fatal shark attacks around the world doubled.

The United States suffered the most unprovoked strikes and accounted for 52 percent of global shark attacks.

Approximately 16 people endured shark bites in Florida and two were killed in California and Hawaii, according to a report by the University of Florida's International Shark Attack File (ISAF)

The researchers ascertained that great whites, tiger and bull sharks killed the majority of swimmers, but they noted that this was a consequence of more people being in the ocean in each year and a stronger emphasis placed on reporting bites and fatalities.

While the three sharks - great whites, tigers and bulls - are know as viscous predators of the sea, the researchers said that their size is why their bites are deadly.

The number of global fatalities from shark attacks doubled in 2023, according to a new survey

The U.S. reported the most shark attacks last year, with the majority occurring in Florida. Surfers are attacked more than swimmers and waders, making up 42 percent of the number of unprovoked shark attacks

Typically, when a shark misidentifies a human as its prey, it will swim away after a single bite, but because they are larger than other sharks, a single bite can be fatal.

Gavin Naylor, the director of the Florida Museum of Natural History's shark research program, argued that the number of bites in 2023 was typical.

'This is within the range of the normal number of bites,' he said.

However, he conceded that the number of deaths was troubling.

'The fatalities are a bit unnerving this year.'
Moments after illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, a migrant from Turkey expressed bewilderment over how easy it was to enter and warned 'killers and psychopaths' could easily cross into America too.

The astonishing interview from Fox News highlights how even migrants are afraid of the loose vetting processes at the border.

'In fact, American people is right, completely true. Who comes into this country?' the migrant told Fox News' Bill Melugin.

'They don't know. Whether okay, I'm good, but how if they're not good how are they a killer psychopath else? No guarantee of that why? Like, like no security, no security check. No background check.'

He went on to confirm that he paid $10,000 to Mexican cartels to be shepherded into the country and that he is very concerned about who is entering the U.S.

The jaw-dropping interview, which was shot in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, shows how the area has become the new ground zero for migrants seeking to enter unlawfully.

The San Diego sector saw the most migrant apprehensions of anywhere else last month.

At least 37,370 migrants entered the US through the San Diego sector, which includes all of Southern California except for El Centro on the Arizona state line, according to the US Border Patrol.

In April, the San Diego region surpassed Tucson, which had been the nation's busiest, and fell to second with 31,219 border encounters.

The Turkish migrant was not alone, though, and was accompanied by a number of his fellow countrymen.

According to the report, the Turkish migrants were denied visas to legally enter the U.S. multiple times - and so they opted to cross illegally instead.

The migrant further expressed concern saying, 'people are not normal' and that having a border where unvetted individuals can cross means the American people are 'right' to be worried.

Recently at the same crossing spot migrants from Pakistan, India, Iran, Jordan, Bangladesh and China have all opted to cross in the California town.

The Turkish migrant expressed dismay that killers and psychopaths could be coming into the U.S. as the border remains, in the words of DHS Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas, a 'crisis'

Asylum seeking migrants from South Asia and of Indian origin walk along the border wall as they aim to surrender to immigration officials after crossing into the United States from Mexico in San Diego

And the Chinese nationals are coming in record numbers.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) arrested nearly 25,000 nationals from the People's Republic of China (PRC) since October, according to government data of crossings at the southern and northern borders over the last four years.

The recent figures represent an astounding 7,000 percent increase from the same time period in 2021.

Further heightening concerns at the U.S-Mexico border are numerous reports that illegal migrants have attempted to infiltrate American military installations.

Earlier this month, two Jordanian nationals in the U.S. illegally posed as Amazon delivery drivers in a box truck that tried to drive on to Marine Corps Base Quantico, one of the nation's largest Marine outposts.

Their attempt was foiled by attentive guards that deployed vehicle barriers before they could get on base, but concerns over espionage remain.

China, Iran, Russia and terrorist groups from the Middle East are involved in attempting access to U.S. instillations Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Wis., told DailyMail.com recently in an exclusive interview.

Migrants, most from China, surrender to a border patrol agent after crossing into the United States from Mexico in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, U.S., May 15, 2024

An asylum-seeking family from Henan Province, China surrenders to officials after crossing the border into the United States from Mexico in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, U.S., May 13, 2024

'There have been reports that off of our military bases ... that we have had foreign nationals here taking pictures and recording what's going on.'

He also claimed that various foreign nationals 'maybe getting jobs as DoorDash or something or other and then poking around, seeing what they can find out' from the U.S. military bases.

Reports further indicate that foreign nationals have operated drones to enhance their surveillance efforts.

And Grothman warned that these attempts have grown significantly in recent years.

'It's not something that we believe was going on a very significant degree just a few years ago,' he said. 'So this new stuff.'
Two dozen governors have warned against a pandemic agreement they say would give the World Health Organization's 'uncontrollable' boss Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus sweeping new powers in an emergency.

In a letter to Joe Biden, they say the president should not sign the deal, as it would enable the WHO to declare global health emergencies and make the US impose lockdowns and mandate vaccines.

Health officials from the WHO's 194 member states are still negotiating the text of the agreement, which is designed to boost cooperation against future pathogens after coronavirus killed millions.

The deal, an update to existing health rules on outbreaks and a new legally-binding treaty, could be formalized at the May 27-June 1 World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

Republicans say the deal gives UN health chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus too much power

The agreement could empower the UN's World Health Organization to impose lockdowns, vaccine mandates, perhaps even the tough measures China used during COVID

It would represent perhaps the biggest increase to the agency's reach since it was created in 1948.

The governors, including Ron DeSantis of Florida, and Greg Abbott of Texas, say it would 'undermine national sovereignty, infringe upon states' rights, and jeopardize constitutionally guaranteed freedoms.'

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'The objective of these instruments is to empower the WHO, particularly its uncontrollable Director-General, with the authority to restrict the rights of US citizens,' says the letter dated May 22.

Under the deal, Americans could forfeit basic 'freedoms such as speech, privacy, travel, choice of medical care, and informed consent, thus violating our Constitution's core principles,' they say.

Instead of US lawmakers setting health rules in a crisis, Tedros would be able to tell US citizens what to do, the letter says.

This could include 'mandates regarding medical treatments,' they add.

'Public health policy is a matter reserved for the states, not the federal government, and certainly not international bodies like the WHO,' says the letter.

The WHO already has binding rules known as the International Health Regulations, which were agreed in 2005 after the 2002/3 SARS outbreak.

They set out countries' obligations when faced with a border-hopping health crisis.

While they were adequate for a regional crisis such as Ebola, the WHO says they were no match for a COVID-type calamity.

That outbreak created a 'vaccine apartheid,' where citizens of rich countries were able to get life-saving injections, says Tedros.

Article 12 of the controversial draft treaty envisages reserving around a fifth of tests, treatments, and vaccines for the WHO to hand out to poorer countries.

It would be only the world's second such health accord after a 2003 deal on tobacco control, which battled smoking globally with taxes and advertising rules.

Texas Gov Greg Abbott added his name to the text, which says the agreement would undermine Americans' freedoms

Two dozen Republican governors signed the letter urging President Biden against signing

The deal could let bureaucrats in Geneva decide when Americans must get injections, the letter says

Under the deal, rich countries could be forced to share a fifth of their vaccines and treatments

Writing for Al Jazeera this week, Tedros said the deal was a 'life-saving tool that will ensure no one is left behind when the next pandemic strikes.'

Politicians should choose 'global cooperation, not narrow nationalism,' he said.

The Biden administration is understood to have its own concerns about the deal, which is still being hammered out in Geneva.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says US firms could lose their intellectual property rights to competitors such as China under the agreement.

Addressing Congress on Wednesday, Blinken said there was 'no consensus' on the deal.

'Where it currently stands is that it seems very unlikely that negotiations could conclude successfully in the next few days,' he said.

The six-day assembly is set to be attended by some 100 ministers.

It could define the legacy of Tedros, who is mid-way through his second term and became a household name during COVID.

Negotiations have been dogged by rifts between richer and poorer countries' positions that have confounded mediators.

The treaty talks missed a key deadline of May 10 and all but collapsed, prompting Tedros to convene emergency talks last week to boost morale, sources said.

Besides the sharing of drugs and vaccines, one of the most contested aspects is financing, including whether to set up a dedicated fund or draw on existing international funds.

Talks have dragged on late into the night, getting stuck on technicalities.

Meanwhile, conservatives in Britain, the US and elsewhere say the deal threatens sovereignty, which the WHO strongly denies.

While parts of the reforms are likely to be agreed in time, other elements are likely to be delayed.
Israel has been ordered to immediately halt its offensive in Rafah by judges at the UN's top court, who said they are 'not convinced' that the IDF has taken sufficient measures to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza.

Hamas welcomed the International Court of Justice's decision on Rafah, but said that it does not go far enough, calling for an end to Israel's offensive in the entire enclave. Meanwhile, Israel has vowed to continue its offensive, and is unlikely to comply with the ruling despite mounting international pressure.

As part of a wider case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide, ICJ president Nawaf Salam delivered the ruling of the 15-strong panel of judges at The Hague this afternoon.

Concluding their findings, he said: 'The court considers that, in conformity with the obligations under the Genocide Convention, Israel must immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in the Rafah governate which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.'

He described how what was already a 'catastrophic situation' in Rafah has 'deteriorated further' since the last court order was made in March. He said that the humanitarian situation in Rafah is now classified as 'disastrous', and ordered Israel to open the Rafah border crossing to allow humanitarian aid in.

Judge Salam added that 'Israel must take effective measures to ensure the unimpeded access to the Gaza Strip [...] to investigate allegations of genocide', which they must be allowed to do immediately to prevent possible evidence from being lost.

He said that conditions had been met for new emergency measures and that Israel must report to the court within one month on its progress in applying them. While ICJ rulings are legally binding, in practice they are unenforceable by the court.

Just minutes after the decision was announced, Israeli warplanes reportedly launched a series of airstrikes on the Shaboura camp in the centre of Rafah city, according to eyewitnesses.

In a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide, ICJ president Nawaf Salam delivered the ruling of the 15-strong panel of judges at The Hague this afternoon

A lone demonstrator waves the Palestinian flag outside the Peace Palace, rear, housing the International Court of Justice, or World Court, in The Hague

Smoke rises during an Israeli air strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, May 24, 2024

Palestinians, including children, who migrated from Rafah to Deir al-Balah due to Israeli attacks wait in long lines to get clean water

Israel has repeatedly dismissed the case's accusations of genocide as baseless, arguing in court that its operations in Gaza amount to self-defence and are targeted at Hamas terrorists who stormed across the Israel-Gaza border on October 7.

The court did not call for a full cease-fire throughout Gaza as South Africa, which brought the case, had requested at hearings last week, however Pretoria welcomed what it called the 'stronger' ICJ order to Israel.

ICJ orders to Israel The court ruled that Israel must: Halt its offensive in Rafah Allow war crimes investigators to enter Gaza Open the Rafah border to allow for humanitarian assistance Report to the ICJ within one month Advertisement

'I believe it's a much stronger, in terms of wording, set of provisional measures, very clear call for a cessation,' Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told public broadcaster SABC.

Hamas said in a statement following the ruling that it 'welcomes the decision of the International Court of Justice', adding however that it expected the ICJ ruling to 'put an end to the aggression and genocide against our people throughout the Gaza Strip, and not just in Rafah'.

'What is happening in Jabalia and other parts of this (northern) sector is no less criminal and dangerous than what's happening in Rafah,' it said.

The Islamist group, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, called on the 'international community and the United Nations to put pressure on the (Israeli) occupation to comply immediately with this decision.'

It said the world body had a 'historical responsibility to see that the principle of international justice is respected.'

The Palestinian Authority, which controls parts of the West Bank, also praised the decision, saying it represents an international consensus to end the war in Gaza.

An Israeli government spokesman vowed last night that 'no power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza'.

'The State of Israel is committed to continue fighting to return its hostages and promise the security of its citizens  wherever and whenever necessary  including in Rafah,' he said in a statement.

Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich said demanding his country to stop the war against Hamas would be tantamount to demanding that it decide to cease to exist. 'Israel will not agree to that,' he said in a statement.

Responding to the ruling, Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir wrote on X: 'The order of the antisemitic court in The Hague should have only one answer  the occupation of Rafah, the increase of military pressure and the crushing of Hamas, until the complete victory in the war is achieved.'

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell What is going to be the [EU's] answer to the ruling of the International Court of Justice that has been issued today, what is going to be our position? We will have to choose between our support to international institutions of the rule of law or our support to Israel.'

This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognise a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with top Hamas officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also facing heavy domestic pressure to end the war and rescue the Israeli hostages who remain in Gaza after they were taken captive by Hamas.

Nawaf Salam, the president of the International Court of Justice, delivered the verdict of the court

Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing that time is running out and that more will be found dead.

Immediately after today's ruling, Netanyahu announced that he would hold a special ministerial meeting to decide how to respond.

Yair Lapid, the leader of the opposition who is often critical of Netanyahu, derided the decision of the ICJ along with the prime minister's supporters.

'The fact that the ICJ did not even directly connect the end of the military operation in Rafah to the release of the hostages and to Israel's right to defend itself against terror is an abject moral failure,' he said.

The ICJ stated in its ruling that it was 'deeply troubling' that Hamas continues to hold Israeli hostages captive, and called for their 'immediate and unconditional release'.

The panel of 14 permanent judges from countries around the world, plus an extra ad hoc judge appointed by Israel as a party to the case, took their places inside the courtroom in The Hague earlier this afternoon while pro-Palestinian demonstrators waved flags and played music outside.

Israel launched its assault on the southern city of Rafah this month, forcing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee a city that had become a refuge to around half of the population's 2.3 million people.

Rafah, on Gaza's southern edge, has also been the main route in for aid, and international organisations say the Israeli operation has cut off the enclave and raised the risk of famine.

South Africa's lawyers asked the ICJ to impose emergency measures, saying Israel's attacks on Rafah must be stopped to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people.

An injured Palestinian boy stands next to the rubble of a family house that was hit overnight in Israeli bombardment in the Tal al-Sultan neighbourhood of Rafah in southern Gaza on Monday

The ICJ, also known as the World Court, is the highest UN body for hearing disputes between states. Its rulings are final and binding but have been ignored in the past. The court has no police force or enforcement powers.

In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court - a separate court also based in The Hague - announced on Monday he had filed an application for arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as top Hamas officials including Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar.

Prosecutor Karim Khan accused Netanyahu and Gallant of crimes including extermination, using hunger as a weapon and deliberately attacking civilians. Israel strongly denied those charges and called on allies to repudiate the court.

South Africa's wider case at the ICJ accuses Israel of orchestrating a state-led genocide against the Palestinian people.

The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

The court has already found that Israel's military operations pose a 'real and imminent risk' to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Israel's offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians.

The operation has obliterated entire areas, hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes, and pushed parts of the territory into famine.

'This may well be the last chance for the court to act,' Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh, who is part of South Africa's legal team, told judges last week.

Israel rejects the claims by South Africa, a nation with historic ties to the Palestinian people.

'Israel takes extraordinary measures in order to minimize the harm to civilians in Gaza,' Tamar Kaplan-Tourgeman, a member of Israel's legal team, told the court last week.

In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it can to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive.

In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

Israel launched its air and ground war on Gaza after Hamas-led terrorists stormed into southern Israeli communities on October 7, killing 1,200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
The government is being urged to investigate setting up a publicly-owned bank to ensure Australians have access to financial services as more banks go cashless and close bricks-and-mortar shops.

Handing down its final report on Friday, a Senate committee investigating the effect of branch closures on consumers and businesses recommended making the existing Banking Code of Conduct mandatory.

Under the code, bank's would be required to undertake 'meaningful' consultation with communities before shuttering a branch, and fund transition and ongoing services to ensure access to cash and essential banking services in the event of a closure.

Hundreds of branches of the Big Four banks have closed across Australia in recent years and more have gone 'cashless' (pictured: Westpac Bank branch with a closed sign on the window)

Matt Canavan has been leading the Senate inquiry into rural branch closures

To enforce the mandatory code, a regulator would have the authority to approve or defer any closure requests, with banks penalised if consultation or disclosure requirements were not met.

Additionally, the committee recommended that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission be tasked with exploring the barriers that customers face when switching banks.

Government should also underwrite the establishment of community bank branches, the inquiry's final report argued, with the cost of new fund to help set up 'community branches' supplemented via an increase to the Major Banks Levy.

The committee's final report also recommended an expansion of the Bank@Post service, including forcing ANZ to sign on to the service.

In individual deals cumulatively worth $90m, customers at Commonwealth Bank, Westpac and NAB, alongside a number of smaller banks, can already access Australia Post's 3500 branches for simple services such as withdrawing and depositing cash under the program.

While ANZ has not offered its services via Bank@Post since 2019, its chief executive Shayne Elliott has flagged he is open to returning after its merger with Suncorp is completed.

While the committee did not recommend that a state-owned bank should be immediately created, it did however argue that a feasibility study should scope such a proposal, possibly in association with the existing Bank@Post model.

But Australian Banking Association (ABA) chief executive Anna Bligh warned that a publicly owned bank was a treacherous proposition.

'Given the past catastrophic failures of state-owned banks in this country, Australians should be wary of suggestions of a new taxpayer funded government-owned bank,' Ms Bligh said.

ABA boss Anna Bligh warned against the establishment of publicly owned bank

'A large government-owned bank would put the ongoing viability of the many small and medium sized banks that serve customers in regional and rural Australia at serious risk.'

The spectacular implosion of state-run banks in Victoria and South Australia in the early 1990s were among the biggest economic disasters in Australia's recent history and ultimately led to the defeat of two state Labor governments.

Committee chair, Queensland Nationals senator Matt Canavan, accused the major banks of failing to act in good faith over the closure of branches in regional towns. 'There now needs to be a stricter and more proactive approach to rebuild financial services in the bush,' Mr Canvan said.

'The major banks have been the principal reason why there is a financial desert in so many country towns and so it is perfectly reasonable for them to pay a small fee to help rebuild financial services in the bush.'

The inquiry conducted hearings across a host of regional centres including Cloncurry, Tom Price and Launceston, with witnesses reporting that bank branches were an essential service in many communities, particularly for the elderly, and those without internet access or poor financial literacy.

Businesses with high levels of cash transactions in regional and remote areas also reported they were regularly required to travel long distances to make deposits as they did not have secure premises to hold significant cash reserves.

The use of cash in Australia has been shifting towards tap-and-go, cards and electronic transfers rather than physical cash over the last few years largely due to the convenience

According to data released by S&P Global Market Intelligence, Westpac closed 167 branches last year. Commonwealth Bank shut 73, ANZ closed 72, while NAB shuttered 72. These figures cover city, regional and rural areas.

Data released by the ABA shows consumers have overwhelmingly shifted towards online banking in recent years, with 98.9 per cent of transactions now made via the internet or banking apps.

A further 0.7 per cent of transactions are made in a bricks and mortar branches, while the remaining 0.4 per cent are conducted through phone and chatbox functions.

Similarly, the surge in the share of digital wallet transactions, and the corresponding decline of cash usage has also diminished branch usage, with just 12 per cent of consumers reporting that they make weekly visits to their local bank.

CBA and Westpac have extended their moratoriums on branch closures through to December 2026, and January 2027, respectively. ANZ has committed to pause closures until the culmination of the probe, while NAB has continued to shut regional locations.
When DailyMail.com asked a New Yorker at Donald Trump's Bronx rally what her thoughts were on Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the response was too explicit to publish.

It was a sentiment shared by many of the thousands who watched the former president campaign on Thursday who are tired of President Joe Biden and the Democrats taking them for granted.

AOC said the event in one of the bluest counties in the country would be a 'muddy mess', posted 'God is good' when it started to rain and urged the majority black and Hispanic locals not to show up.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul also sparked fury by appearing to call MAGA fans 'clowns.'

But the message from the hoards who showed up was clear: They were there for Trump and the Democrats should be worried.

The crowd booed when they heard the Squad member's name mentioned and said she 'doesn't belong here'.

Jessica Stinnett of Manhattan slammed the congresswoman arguing 'there's no respect to America or the American people anymore' because of lawmakers like her and Biden.

'It's time for us to come and fight,' she said of New York Republicans pushing to shift the state further red.

Trump supporters wait in line to get into Crotona Park in the Bronx for ex-president's rally

Voters told Fox News before the rally that the Democratic Rep. should 'stay out of the Bronx' and be concerned about the show of support from the thousands decked out in MAGA hats.

Fans in t-shirts with Trump's mugshot and others decked out in Trump bling and tattoos crowded into Crotona Park to hear the ex-president speak while hundreds more waited outside the barricades.

Like the city, it was a more diverse crowd than many of the ex-president's rallies that have taken place in recent months in battleground states . Trump declared the event ta 'love fest.'

Other Trump supporters accused the congresswoman of doing 'nothing for the Bronx.'

Signs at Trump's rally claim New York is 'Trump Country' ahead of his visit to the Bronx

Ahead of Trump's rally on Thursday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on CNN where she used the word 'clowns' to describe Trump supporters.

'Well, I'll tell you what won't make a difference at all, Jake, and that's for Donald Trump to be a ringleader and invite all his clowns to a place like the Bronx,' Hochul told anchor Jake Tapper.

'New York will never, ever support Donald Trump for president,' she added.

The comment was reminiscent of when Hillary Clinton labeled Trump supporters as a 'basket of deplorables' in a speech ahead of the 2016 election sparking fierce backlash. (Trump voters have since embraced the term, donning shirts with the word 'deplorable' at numerous GOP events.)

Tatiana Ibrahim who traveled down to the Bronx on Thursday from Carmel, New York blasted New York Democratic political leaders.

'I think that New York is a very strong state with a lot of people who truly believe in our president and are truly tried. They have woken up,' she said.

A man holds a sign welcoming Trump to the Bronx from 'Robert from the Bronx' ahead of the ex-president's rally

AOC's Republican opponent in the Bronx Tina Forte demanded a debate with the Squad member. The Democrat won reelection in 2022 with more than 70 percent in the district

Bronx residents tell DailyMail.com they're happy for Trump to campaign in their borough

Crowds of Trump supporters listening to Trupm speak in Crotona Park as the sun sets

'They're sick and tired of being put down, pushed down, pushed to the side, taken advantage of. These corrupt politicians of New York need to go.'

The ex-president's base showing up in force for the campaign event in one of the bluest counties in the country sent a clear message to New York elected Democrats: where the Republican presidential nominee goes, they will follow and some are already there.

Several thousand decked out in their red MAGA hats, Trump emblazoned t-shirts, even sporting Trump bling and MAGA tattoos crowded into Crotona Park to hear the ex-president speak while hundreds more waited outside the barricades.

Like the city, it was a more diverse crowd than many of the ex-president's rallies that have taken place in recent months in battleground states. Trump declared the event ta 'love fest.'

The ex-president is looking to woo more black and Latino voters away from Biden in 2024 as polls show support slipping for the 81-year-old incumbent from the largely Democratic base.

DailyMail.com spoke with a diverse number of Bronx residents who were Trump voters and ecstatic he was showing up to speak.

Trump supporters wearing MAGA hats look toward the podium as the ex-president holds rally

A shirtless Trump supporter with jeans, a flag and a Trump license plate walks around outside the rally

Supporters of the Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gather for a campaign rally in the Bronx borough of New York

'We Love Trump' the sidewalk in Crotona park reads written in chalk as supporters gather

Trump was the first Republican presidential candidate to hold a campaign event in the Bronx in more than 40 years. The last one to do so was Ronald Reagan in 1984.

And Trump's New York backers rejoiced in the visit - vowing to turn the city red.

'I love it. I'm glad he's here,' said Bronx resident and Trump supporter Mel Easy, who is black. He proudly sported a red MAGA hat and voted for the ex-president in both the past two elections.

Michael Vass, another Trump voter from the Bronx who waited in line early said he's happy to have the Republican candidate show up.

'It's an expression of the first amendment and the right to assemble,' Vass said. 'I think it's very important that we hear everyone who's potentially going to be leading this nation.'

The Bronx overwhelmingly voted for President Joe Biden in 2020. He received more than 83 percent of the vote from the county and more than 60 percent state wide.

But in a city as populated as New York, even with less than 16 percent of the vote in the Bronx in 2020, that still means more than 67,000 people voted for Trump.
Former President Donald Trump called Nikki Haley a 'capable person' who would be part of his 'team' in his first comments since her surprise revelation that she will vote for him.

On a day when Trump sought to demonstrate the expansion of his political coalition at a rally in the Bronx, Trump talked up Haley, who he had ridiculed during the campaign as 'bird brain.'

'Well I think she's going to be on our team because we have a lot of the same ideas, the same thoughts,' Trump told News 12.

'I appreciated what she said. You know, we had a nasty campaign. It was pretty nasty. But she's a very capable person, and I'm sure she's going to be on our team in some form. Absolutely,' Trump said.

Trump spoke on a day he touted 'unity' in the party, with almost all of his primary rivals falling in line behind him, despite some of them launching harsh critiques about his policy vision and his character.

Teambuilding exercise: Former President Donald Trump said of Nikki Haley Thursday, ''Well I think she's going to be on our team'

That includes Haley's past comments ripping politicians who bend to pressure.

'Many of the same politicians who now publicly embrace Trump privately dread him,' she said in Greenville, South Carolina in February. 'They know what a disaster he's been and will continue to be for our party. They're just too afraid to say it out loud.'

'Well I'm not afraid to say the hard truths out loud. I feel no need to kiss the ring. I have no fear of Trump's retribution. I'm not looking for anything from him.'

Trump did not mention Haley when asked to name three top picks to be his running mate, although he did name other former critics.

'We have so many, I don't want to do that,' Trump said, brushing off the question at first. He mentioned Dr. Ben Carson, Sen. Marco Rubio, Sen. J.D. Vance, and Rep. Elise Stefanik

'Elise is doing a fantastic job. But I could go on for quite a long time. We have many people that would do a really fantastic job.'

Halely announced Wednesday she would vote for Trump. She said in February that 'I feel no need to kiss the ring'

Trump says he plans to win New York, and has seen increased poll support among black and hispanic voters compared to 2016

Trump had ridiculed Carson back in 2016 over his origin story, then put him in the cabinet. He insulted Rubio as 'little Marco' when they clashed. 'My god what an idiot,' Vance tweeted in 2016, although he is now a loyal supporter who has been lining up fundraising events for Trump in Silicon Valley. Stefanik once blasted Trump's comments about Muslims in the 2016 campaign, but this week filed an ethics complaint against the judge overseeing the Stormy Daniels trial.

Haley was Trump's last 2024 GOP rival standing, and she has drawn millions of 'zombie' votes even after dropping out of the race, giving Trump an incentive to try to court her supporters.

She urged him to do so Wednesday in her remarks to the Hudson Institute, which she herself posted later.

'I don't know what Nikki's calculations are. I hope she's not thinking of being his vice president,' former UN Ambassador John Bolton, who revealed himself as a Trump critic in book after he left the administration, told CNN.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, who denounced Trump's actions on January 6 and ended his own presidential campaign before Iowa, has said he won't endorse Trump but refused to answer questions about whether he'd vote for him.

Trump stuck to his message in an interview Thursday with Fox News. 'I appreciate what she said,' Trump said, while saying he was unifying the party.
An Arizona mother gave birth to her baby girl inside a minivan in a hospital parking lot just hours after the nursing staff had sent her home, the family claims.

Scherazade Vedarte-Gonzalez suffered a lot of pain in her final week of pregnancy, making three visits to the Banner Casa Grande Medical Center in Phoenix to ensure her baby was alright. She was sent home every time.

Vedarte-Gonzalez went to the hospital again early Sunday morning, the day her daughter Luzbella was born, but was allegedly discharged and advised to wait for her scheduled induction on May 25, the family told KTVK.

About two hours after being home, her pain worsened and she was rushed back to the hospital. But by the time her mother Lucy Villanueva parked the car, she was already in full-fledged labor.

Villanueva, who says she could already see her granddaughter's head, did not have time to go inside to get a doctor and delivered the baby herself.

Scherazade Vedarte-Gonzalez gave birth to her newborn daughter Luzbella in a minivan in the parking lot outside the Banner Casa Grande Medical Center in Phoenix on May 25 at 3am. She is pictured after having delivered her baby

Medical staff treated Vedarte-Gonzalez in the parking lot before admitting her back to the hospital, where she reportedly stayed one night

Villanueva rushed to the hospital around 3am Sunday, while her daughter was in active labor.

'She said, "Mom, it's coming! We got to go!"' Villanueva told the TV station. '"It's coming! I feel it. It's already coming out," and I couldn't believe it  when I opened the door, I saw the head already.'

After helping bring her granddaughter into the world, Villanueva handed her daughter the newborn and went to find help.

'I didn't know what to do. I just placed the baby on her and I ran inside and I said "Help! help! You know, she's having a baby! The baby's out!"' she said.

Medical staff treated Vedarte-Gonzalez in the parking lot before admitting her back to the hospital, where she reportedly stayed one night.

Despite the 'really traumatic' experience, both mother and daughter are healthy, according to Villanueva.

Both Luzbella (pictured) and her mother are said to be doing great after the 'traumatic' delivery

Vedarte-Gonzalez is pictured holding her newborn daughter Luzbella

But Banner Casa Grande Medical Center has seemingly refuted the family's claims that they were forced out by staff.

A hospital spokesperson told DailyMail.com: 'Scherazade Luz Vedarte-Gonzalez was seen and assessed prior to delivery. She was not in active labor and chose to go home. She delivered several hours later.

'We are happy that both Ms. Vedarte-Gonzalez and her baby are doing well following delivery,' the hospital added.
Cold-resistant electronic 'skin' will support China's polar research

Global Times) 10:04, May 24, 2024

China's first domestically built polar research vessel and icebreaker, Xuelong 2 docks at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai on Thursday morning. Photo: Polar Research Institute of China

A Chinese university has developed a type of electronic "skin" for robots that can function in temperatures as low as -78 C, a breakthrough that could support China's polar research and facilitate scientific activities in extreme environments.

This new material can be wrapped around a robot's palms. It provides tactile sensation and gives robotic hands high self-healing ability and high sensitivity.

It can accurately sense pressure and identify the shape of items and special symbols, according to a statement sent by Tianjin University to the Global Times on Thursday.

"This technological breakthrough will help robots overcome the challenges of extremely low temperatures, which pose a major issue for their use in polar regions," Liu Tingting, a research fellow at the Wuhan University Chinese Antarctic Center of Surveying and Mapping, told the Global Times on Thursday.

The material can ensure the proper functioning of robot bodies and their batteries in harsh environments such as those found in polar regions, Liu added.

The complex glacial terrain and harsh weather conditions in Antarctica pose significant challenges for researchers. China's ongoing exploration and application of high-tech materials are helping address these tough tasks in polar-related research.

Multiple technologies have been applied to assist China's polar exploration. For instance, according to the Wuhan University Chinese Antarctic Center of Surveying and Mapping, the development and application of drone technology gave significant support to China's Antarctic inland expeditions in April, particularly in surveying terrain and land surface coverage.

Liu said that such breakthroughs could help solve challenges faced in China's research in polar regions, such as carrying out tasks that are unsuitable for humans and in areas that are too dangerous to reach.

Yang Jing, one of the professors at Tianjin University who lead the research team, was quoted as saying in the statement that the team created a world-leading self-healing electronic material as early as 2020.

The electronic ''skin'' represents a further breakthrough in the technology, and it is expected to have broad applications in polar research and beyond.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Former Korean President Moon Jae-in said Thursday the security situation on the Korean Peninsula is in a "crisis" phase where military conflicts could flare up "at any moment," as he called for diplomatic efforts to promote peace.

Moon made the remarks in a video message for a peace forum in Washington, as tensions have persisted on the peninsula with Pyongyang continuing its weapons tests in the absence of bilateral engagements with Korea and the United States.

"The situation on the Korean Peninsula is in a state of crisis with military conflicts possible at any moment," Moon said during the forum hosted by the Korean American Public Action Committee, a nonprofit organization based in the U.S.

"Above all, diplomatic efforts to solve the problem through intergovernmental dialogues are crucial. Our role, which involves cooperation between parliaments and expanding public support, is also more important than ever," he added.

Known for the pursuit of cross-border rapprochement during his term from 2017-22, Moon voiced concerns that the situation on the peninsula has become "even more disturbing" against the backdrop of the "increasingly confrontational" international environment.

"Communication is not being restored. The Sept. 19 military agreement, which has been a stabilizing force on the Korean Peninsula, is being neutralized, and military tensions are at their highest," he said, referring to the 2018 inter-Korean tension reduction accord, which Pyongyang has walked away from.

"At such a time, it is urgent to strengthen the value of peace and make efforts to demonstrate peace on the Korean Peninsula in various ways," he added.

During his term, Moon pushed for an initiative to lay the foundation for lasting peace on the peninsula. But his drive lost steam amid a prolonged deadlock in nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang.

In a separate video message, Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, vowed efforts to "uphold the value for lasting peace." (Yonhap)
Night vision footage reportedly shows the dramatic moment a Ukrainian servicemen stole a T-64 tank and drove it across the frontline to defect to Russia.

Maxim Likhachev, 39, is now suspected of being a long-time Russian plant in the Ukrainian army, and carrying out sabotage work in favour of Vladimir Putin's forces.

Video shows the suspected traitor crossing the front line in the tank in occupied Donetsk.

'Likhachev came over to our side in the Donetsk direction on a stolen Ukrainian T-64 tank,' said pro-Russia military expert Daniil Bezsonov, a former official with the region's breakaway puppet government.

'He stole the tank because he thought it would be safer to get to our positions, where he was expected in advance by prior agreement.

Maxim Likhachev reportedly stole a Ukrainian tank and escaped to join Putin's forces

Likhachev (pictured) was apprehended upon arriving on the Russian frontline before revealing he had defected to their side

'No one would shoot in the back, and for other Armed Forces officers in the forward positions, everything looked like an ordinary tank combat exit.'

As he approached Russian positions, he raised his tank gun high to identify himself.

He was initially treated with suspicion by Russian soldiers, and forced to raise his hands, then kneel, and prostrate himself on the ground to show he was not armed.

Likhachev has served for 18 months in the Ukrainian army but it is now suspected he was recruited by Russia prior to this when he was in Poland at the start of the war.

Officials believe Likhachev may have passed information on Ukrainian positions to Russia as he served in three separate brigades, all of which suffered heavy losses.

Bezsonov claims the defector reveal how Russia recruited him to its cause in the coming days.

Likhachev was born in Svatovo in what is now the occupied Ukrainian region of Luhansk.

It is believed the traitor had been leaking information to Russian intelligence since joining the Ukrainian army

Likhachev used the cover of night to steal a tank and defect to the Russian side

He had served in the 101st, 119th and 59th brigade of the Ukrainian army.

This is not the first time a Ukrainian soldier has defected to join Putin's forces.

Former Lt-Col of the Ukrainian SBU, Vasily Prozorov, 48, defected to Russia 'a few years ago' and is regarded as a traitor to his country.

In April, Prozorov was filmed surviving a car bomb assassination bid in Moscow, escaping with injuries to his arms and legs.

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.

'As for the terrorists' behaviour, professionals will immediately say that it looks more like a special operation.'

This comes following a report from Reuters claiming Russia's Vladimir Putin is ready to agree a ceasefire with Ukraine but only if specific conditions can be agreed.

A video shows the moment his SUV explodes, leaving him with arm and leg wounds, for which were treated in hospital.

Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine if a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines can be agreed, Russian sources told the publication.

Sources report the veteran Russian leader has expressed frustration to a small group of advisers about what he views as Western-backed attempts to block negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to rule out talks.

'Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire to freeze the war,' said one of the insiders, a senior Russian source who has worked with Putin and has knowledge of top level conversations in the Kremlin.

He, like the others cited in this story, spoke on condition of anonymity given the matter's sensitivity.

Reuters spoke to a total of five people who work with or have worked with Putin at a senior level in the political and business worlds.

The fifth source did not comment on freezing the war at the current frontlines.

Vladimir Putin (pictured on Thursday) is ready to halt the war in Ukraine if a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines can be agreed, Russian sources claim

Volodymyr Zelensky (pictured) has said Ukraine will not accept a peace deal that allows Russia to keep land it has taken during Putin's invasion

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in response to a request for comment, said the Kremlin chief had repeatedly made clear Russia was open to dialogue to achieve its goals, saying the country did not want an eternal war.

Ukraine's foreign and defence ministries did not respond to questions.

Talks of a ceasefire come after former US President Donald Trump pledged to use his relationship with Putin to get journalist Evan Gershkovich released from his Russian imprisonment.

'Evan Gershkovich, the Reporter from The Wall Street Journal, who is being held by Russia, will be released almost immediately after the Election, but definitely before I assume Office. He will be HOME, SAFE, AND WITH HIS FAMILY,' Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.

'Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, will do that for me, but not for anyone else, and WE WILL BE PAYING NOTHING!'

Despite Trump's confidence, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed Putin has 'naturally not had contacts with Donald Trump.'

Evan Gershkovich is a Wall Street Journal writer hired shortly before Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine.

On March 29, 2023, he became the first US journalist since the Cold War to be charged with espionage in the country.
A gunman has filmed himself opening fire in a supermarket after hunting around the store for 'someone good' - and failing to hit them.

Richard Klaff, 20, broadcast the shooting live on Facebook as he prepared for and carried out the attack on a Kroger in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He began about 6.15pm on Thursday by lighting up a cigar in a bathroom upstairs from the Georgetown Kroger, claiming 'I'm gonna shoot 11 people... watch'.

He cocked the pistol several times before heading downstairs and wandering around the supermarket looking for the right target.

'Which one am I gonna choose? Let me find someone good real quick, I ain't gonna kill no old-a** man,' he said.

Richard Klaff, 20, began by lighting up a cigar in a bathroom upstairs from the Georgetown Kroger, claiming 'I'm gonna shoot 11 people... watch'

Klaff was charged with three counts of attempted murder and one count of criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon and locked up in the Allen County Jail

Klaff bragged about walking through a supermarket with a gun and flashed it to the camera in one of the aisles.

'I'm going out with a bang... baby watch,' he said.

Klaff eventually spotted a black woman at what appeared to be a deli or bakery counter, and marked her for death.

'Oh yeah, I see one, I see one,' he said, then fired six rounds at her, all of which missed and no one was injured.

Klaff's chosen target raised fears that the shooting was racially motivated, but it was not clear whether this was the case, or if she was the first black shopper he saw.

Klaff cocked the pistol several times before heading downstairs and wandering around the supermarket looking for the right target

Klaff eventually spotted a black woman at what appeared to be a deli or bakery counter, and fired at her six times - missing each one

Klaff (pictured with his sister) goes by 'Justa Badperson' on Facebook, where he streamed his attack

The gunman fled the store after firing as the video ended. He was arrested in another store nearby soon after the shooting.

He was charged with three counts of attempted murder and one count of criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon and locked up in the Allen County Jail.

Klaff's last post on Facebook, where his profile is named 'Justa Badperson', reads 'this s**t don't stop n***as be h*es'.

Another disturbing post showed him wearing a hoodie while holding an assault rifle, though it was not clear if it was a real firearm.

'We are deeply saddened by the incident at our E State Boulevard store in Fort Wayne,' Kroger said.

'We are cooperating with the investigation by local law enforcement, and we have initiated counseling services for our associates. Plans to reopen the store will be announced later.

A disturbing post showed him wearing a hoodie while holding an assault rifle, though it was not clear if it was a real firearm

Police stood guard outside the store on Friday after it was closed

A sign on the door said the Kroger would be closed on Friday

'For now, to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, we are referring questions to the Fort Wayne Police Department.'

United Food and Commercial Workers Local 700 President Tracy Bartak said employees would be provided with counselling.

'Our hearts go out to all of our Kroger family who were affected by tonight's shooting. Store 425 will be closed the rest of tonight and tomorrow,' she said.

'Beginning Friday, mental health counselors will be available free of charge for anyone in need both in person at the store as well as via phone or FaceTime.'
The families of four marines who died in a Osprey helicopter crash in California in June 2022 are suing the manufacturers of the aircraft and its engine over negligence.

A MV-22B crashed in Imperial County near Highway 78 nearly two years ago during a training flight and killed five people.

Pilots Capt. Nicholas P. Losapio, 31 and Capt. John J. Sax and crew chiefs Cpl. Nathan E. Carlson, 21, Cpl. Seth D. Rasmuson, 21, and Lance Cpl. Evan A. Strickland, 19, all died in the tragic incident.

Now, four families of the five Marines filed a federal lawsuit against Bell Textron, Boeing and Rolls-Royce in California on Thursday.

It claims the manufactures failed to make 'truthful statements to the government and to service members about the design, operation, and safety of V-22 Osprey aircraft'.

The families of four marines who died in a Osprey helicopter crash (scene pictured) in California in June 2022 are suing the manufacturers of the aircraft and its engine over negligence

Relatives of Sax, Rasmuson, Carlson and Strickland are taking legal action against the MV-22B manufacturers Bell Textron and Boeing as well as Rolls Royce, the maker of the engine.

The lawsuit claims that two systems failed in the aircraft which could result in a recurrent mechanical problem that could cause it to crash.

Amber Sax, who was married to Capt. Sax, said she filed the lawsuit to get answers for others who are at risk.

'Our military members deserve equipment and aircraft free of failures, especially failures that can cause the loss of their lives,' she said in a statement.

'I should have been growing old with my husband. Our two children shouldnt be growing up without their father.'

Brett Strickland, whose son Lance Cpl. Strickland died in the crash, said: 'We have been trying to get answers and push to get the actual reason and cause for the crash and we dont feel that they know why this is happening.

'We dont want other families to get a knock on the door in the middle of the night.'

Pilots Capt. Nicholas P. Losapio, 31 and Capt. John J. Sax died in the helicopter crash

Crew chiefs Cpl. Nathan E. Carlson, 21, Cpl. Seth D. Rasmuson, 21, died in the helicopter crash

Evan A. Strickland, 19, was one of five who died in the tragic crash nearly two years ago

The families of four of the Marines filed a federal lawsuit against Bell Textron, Boeing and Rolls-Royce in California on Thursday

Tim Loranger, who is representing the families in the lawsuit, said: 'For years Bell-Boeing and others have asserted that this aircraft and all of its systems are safe, yet the facts keep telling a different story.'

There were four fatal Osprey crashes between March 2022 and November 2023 which killed 20 service members.

It led to the US military grounding its entire fleet of around 400 V-22 Ospreys but this was lifted in March and there has been a gradual return to service.

The military believes it has identified and solved the issue with the clutch in the Ospreys rotor gearbox that caused the California crash.

Investigators said the helicopter crashed due to a dual 'hard clutch engagement' which is when the 'clutch releases from the rotor system and suddenly reengages' and can cause an immediate drop.

It claims the manufactures failed to make 'truthful statements to the government and to service members about the design, operation, and safety of V-22 Osprey aircraft'

But the aircraft fell so fast, the pilots on board did not have time to say anything on the radio and the fire destroyed the black box.

The lawsuit pointed to the clutch issue and highlighted another alleged problem.

It claimed the helicopter has difficulty with its Interconnect Drive System which shifts power from one rotor engine to both rotors in case the other engine fails.

The legal filing states the system is 'defective and unreasonably dangerous'.

Attorney Loranger said: 'We are going to look at all of the relevant components individually and as a system to determine if there was a defect.

'Whether the problem lies with the ICDS or its integration with other components in the system remains to be seen.'

Four marines onboard a MV-22B Osprey participating in NATO exercise Cold Response were killed in March 2022 after it crashed in Norway.

In August 2023, three US marines were killed in another horror helicopter crash during military exercises in northern Australia.

The Boeing MV-22B Osprey, with 23 people on board, went down on Melville Island in the Tiwi Islands.

There was another fatal Osprey crash three months later in Japan which killed eight service members and led to the grounding of the aircrafts.

A Bell Textron spokesperson said it 'cannot comment on matters of litigation'.

DailyMail.com has contacted Boeing and Rolls Royce for comment.
A 14-year-old girl accused of stabbing two teachers and a pupil at a school in South Wales will face trial this year.

The teenager - who cannot be named for legal reasons - briefly appeared in court via a video link today on three charges of attempted murder.

She was arrested following the alleged attacks at the 1,500-pupil Ysgol Dyffryn Aman school in Ammanford on April 24.

The 14-year-old has also been charged with the possession of a bladed article on a school premises.

Staff members Fiona Elias, 48, and Liz Hopkin, 53, and a pupil who cannot be named were all injured in the attack.

All three alleged victims were taken to hospital for treatment but later released to recover at home.

Mother-of-three Liz Hopkin (pictured with her husband) was injured in the attack at the school on April 26

Fiona Elias, 48, was also identified as one of the teachers stabbed

The teenage defendant - wearing a white top - spoke softly only to confirm her name during the brief hearing at Swansea Crown Court.

She was remanded at youth detention accommodation by Judge Geraint Walters KC and told she will return to court to enter her plea on the charges on August 12.

A three-week trial has been fixed to begin on September 30 this year.

Special educational needs teacher Mrs Hopkin was stabbed in the neck before Mrs Elias and a pupil were also attacked.

The suspect was then allegedly tackled by veteran rugby teacher Darrel Campbell.

The school was placed into lockdown for several hours before pupils were able to leave at about 3.20pm.

The school went into a 'code red' lockdown meaning children were ordered to wait in classrooms with their phones silenced and windows drawn.

The school was placed into lockdown for several hours before pupils were able to leave at about 3.20pm

Mrs Elias - a married mother of two adult daughters - is a well-respected head of year 7 at the school and deputy head teacher.

She lives 20 miles away from the school with husband Rhodri in the village of Bronwydd Arms near Carmarthen.

Mother-of-three Liz Hopkin lives with husband John in a neighbouring village to the school and is said to be 'well loved' by pupils for her dedication to special needs work.

Formers pupils of the school include ex-Wales and British Lion rugby star Shane Williams, Radio Two DJ Owain Wyn Evans and former MP and ex-Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price.
Actor Robert De Niro loaned his voice to the Biden campaign for a new ad that claimed former President Donald Trump 'snapped' after losing the 2020 race.

On Friday, the Biden campaign said the 30-second spot was to remind voters of Trump's 'tumultuous presidency,' and then his decline into 'the unhinged power-hungry candidate he is today.'

A source familiar with the creation of the spot told DailyMail.com that De Niro was shown the ad with a generic voiceover and less than 24 hours later he told the campaign he loved it and recorded it using his distinct voice.

'From mignight tweets to drinking bleach, to tear-gassing citizens and staging a photo-op, we knew Trump was out of control when he was president,' De Niro said in the ad. 'Then he lost the 2020 election and snapped.'

Scenes from January 6 played onscreen as De Niro said that Trump was 'desperately trying to hold onto power.'

Actor Robert De Niro (right) did the voiceover for a new Biden campaign ad that was released Friday. De Niro appeared with his girlfriend Tiffany Chen (left) at last month's state dinner with Japan

'From mignight tweets to drinking bleach, to tear-gassing citizens and staging a photo-op, we knew Trump was out of control when he was president,' De Niro said in the 30-second spot

'Now he's running again, this time threatening to be a dictator, to terminate the Constitution,' the actor went on.

The ad cuts to a clip of Trump where the ex-president said: 'If I don't get elected, it's going to be a bloodbath.'

The 'bloodbath' comment was originally uttered as Trump stirred up fears about China building cars in Mexico, which could eat away at the U.S. auto industry.

The former president has told supporters that he would be their 'retribution' as he runs for the White House for a third time.

'Trump wants revenge, and he'll stop at nothing to get it,' De Niro said to conclude the ad.

It will run on TV and digital platforms across battleground states as well as on cable, the campaign said.

De Niro's language mirrors what President Joe Biden has said about Trump on the campaign trail in recent days.

The 30-second ad showed former President Donald Trump's infamous photo-op moment with a Bible across the street from the White House after Black Lives Matter demonstrators had been tear-gassed to clear the way for the president and his aides

During campaign events over the weekend in Atlanta and Detroit, Biden said Trump 'snapped.'

'He's not only obsessed with losing in 2020, he's clearly been unhinged,' the president said at a closed-door fundraiser Saturday evening in Atlanta.

De Niro's involvement comes as the campaign has gotten Hollywood more involved.

A largescale Los Angeles fundraiser is being planned featuring George Clooney and Julia Roberts next month.

The A-listers will be joined by former President Barack Obama.

A day after appearing in the White House briefing room earlier this month, Star Wars actor Mark Hamill sent out a fundraising plea on behalf of the 2024 campaign.

De Niro has long been a supporter of Biden and other Democrats - and attended last month's glitzy state dinner with Japan with girlfriend Tiffany Chen.

In the past, he's referred to Trump as 'pure evil,' said the Republican was a 'total monster' and said another Trump term would be a 'nightmare' for the country.
The couple had been working in Haiti as missionaries when they were attacked

The daughter and son-in-law of Missouri politician Ben Baker have been killed in Haiti while working there as missionaries.

Representative Baker said in a post to his social media that his daughter Natalie, 21, and son-in-law Davy, 24, were attacked by gangs on Thursday evening.

In an emotional statement, Baker said: 'My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain.

'Most of you know my daughter and son-in-law Davy and Natalie Lloyd are full time missionaries in Haiti.

'They were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed. They went to Heaven together.'

Haiti descended into chaos after attacks in February where gunmen seized control of police stations and attacked the airport in the capital Port-au-Prince.

Representative Baker said in a post to his social media that his daughter Natalie and son-in-law Davy, seen here, were attacked by gangs on Thursday evening

In an emotional statement posted by the politician, seen here, he said his heart was broken into a thousand pieces

Baker added: 'Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well. I have no other words for now.'

The couple had been working for Missions in Haiti, started by David's parents David and Alicia, who shared an update on what had happened to the couple. Jude Montis, a 20-year-old Haitian, was also killed in the ambush.

In a post to their social media, the organization said that the two were ambushed by a gang of three trucks full of men after coming out of church.

The group said that Davy was taken to a house, tied up, and then beaten before the gang stole the groups trucks and all they had.

After that gang left the area, another arrived with one member being shot and killed causing them to going into 'full attack mode', according to the charity.

The couple are said to have been using starlink internet to call for help and were holed up inside a property.

The charity said: 'So they are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot.

'Their lives are in danger. I have been trying all my contacts to get a police armored car there to evacuate them out to safety but can't get anyone to do.

'I also am trying to negotiate with the gang so how much $ to stand down and let them leave and get to safety.'

In an update just hours later, the charity confirmed that they had been shot and killed by the gang, saying they were all devastated by their loss.

Former president Donald Trump shared a post to his Truth Social page about the couple, saying: 'God bless Davy and Natalie. Such a tragedy. Haiti is totally out of control. Find the killers NOW!!!'

In a post to their social media, the organization said that the two, seen here with Ben Baker, were ambushed by a gang of three trucks full of men after coming out of church

The couple had been working for Missions in Haiti who shared an update on what had happened to the couple on social media

The couple are said to have been using starlink internet to call for help and were holed up inside a property

Missions in Haiti runs a school for 450 children alongside two churches and a children's home in the Bon Repos neighborhood of Port-au-Prince.

Gangs control 80 per cent of Port-au-Prince, and the coordinated attacks paralyzed the capital and beyond.

Gangs have burned police stations and hospitals, opened fire on the main international airport and stormed Haiti's two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

The attack on the airport left former prime minister Ariel Henry locked out of Haiti since he was on an official trip to Kenya at the time.

He has since resigned, and a transitional presidential council is seeking a new prime minister for Haiti. It is also tasked with selecting a new Cabinet and organizing general elections.

Gangs since then have directed their attacks on previously peaceful communities, leaving thousands homeless.

Motorists pass by a burning barricade during a protest after an escalation in violence, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, March 7, 2024

A police officer sits inside his vehicle with a windshield damaged by bullet holes, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Saturday, May 11, 2024

A little girl is led by the hand past a burnt car blocking the street as residents evacuate the Delmas 22 neighborhood to escape gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, May 2

More than 2,500 people have been killed or injured in Haiti from January to March, a more than 50% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the United Nations.

After months of being inactive, the main international airport reopened for the first time earlier this week.

The reopening of the Toussaint-Louverture airport in the capital of Port-au-Prince is expected to help ease a critical shortage of medications and other basic supplies since the countrys main seaport remains paralyzed.

Only Sunrise Airways  a local carrier, is flying in and out of Port-au-Prince for now. US-based airlines are not expected to start doing so until late May or early June.

The US evacuated hundreds of its citizens by helicopter out of a hilly neighborhood in Port-au-Prince, as did non-profit organizations, as gangs laid siege to parts of the capital.

On Thursday, President Biden thanked Kenyan President William Ruto for sending a deployment of Kenyan police forces to Haiti.

Images shared on their social media show the couple helping out at a children's home

President Joe Biden and Kenyan President William Ruto walk along the Colonnade around the Rose Garden on their way to the Oval Office Thursday, May 23, 2024

The president defended his decision to withhold sending American troops into the Caribbean nation, instead agreeing to contribute $300 million to a multinational force.

'Haiti is in an area of the Caribbean that is a very volatile,' Biden said at a news conference with Ruto.

'There's a lot going on in this hemisphere. So we're in a situation where we want to do all we can without us looking like America once again is stepping over and deciding this is what must be done.'

Ruto said: 'Kenya believes that the responsibility of peace and security anywhere in the world, including in Haiti, is the collective responsibility of all nations and all people who believe in freedom, self-determination, democracy and justice. And it is the reason why Kenya took up this responsibility.'
U.S. officials are preparing for North Korea to undertake increasingly 'provocative' actions in the run-up to the November elections, as Pyongyang cements longstanding ties with Moscow.

'We have no doubt that North Korea will be provocative this year. Its just a matter of how escalatory it is,' a U.S. intelligence official told NBC News.

It comes in anticipation of a likely meeting between North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who was reelected this year with 87 per cent of the vote after more than two decades in power.

Some of the escalatory actions, whatever they may be, are expected to come close to the U.S. election, according to intelligence officials.

Biden Administration officials are raising concerns about the alliance, which comes amid an embrace between U.S. rivals Russia and China during the run-up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The warning has echoes of 2016, when U.S. officials accused Russia of interference in the election. Special Counsel Robert Mueller indicted 34 individuals including members of a Russian troll farm linked to the Kremlin after his two-year probe.

U.S. intelligence fears North Korea is planning increasingly provocative actions in the weeks before the U.S. November elections

U.S. officials are anticipating the volatile Kim will ink a deal for increased military transfers from Russia, according to the report.

The White House said in January that Russia used North Korean-made short range ballistic missiles to strike Ukraine, in just the latest instance of their cooperation.

Among the concerns for U.S. intelligence officials: that Putin's Russia is giving North Korea nuclear sub technology as well as aiding its decades-long bid to refine ballistic missile technology.

In exchange, Pyongyang has been supplying Russia with arms to aid its ongoing war in Ukraine.

Another concern is that Russia could help North Korea advance in its effort to build a sub that could launch nuclear-armed missiles  a threat that would allow it to extend its threat to U.S. allies Japan and others throughout the region.

The concerns come as the White House has repeatedly pressed China not to aid Russia's invasion with its own arms trove.

The U.S. has spent decades trying to contain North Korea's missile technology. This picture taken on April 19, 2024 and released from North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on April 20, 2024 shows the DPRK Missile Administration conducting a test launch of "Pyoljji-1-2" new-type anti-aircraft missiles in the West Sea of Korea

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit Pyongyang soon

President Joe Biden has based his reelection in part on protecting democracies and confronting Russian aggression

'Just recently we have been articulating, in quite urgent terms, our concern about what China is doing to fuel Russia's war machine -- not giving weapons directly, but providing inputs to Russia's defense industrial base,' White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters at the White House this week.

'That is happening. That is something we're concerned about,' he said.

Any volatile actions by North Korea could help amplify Donald Trump's relentless attacks on President Biden's foreign policy, which Trump has called a disaster.

Trump himself has boasted about how he ended up trading 'love letters' with Kim after warning early in his presidency North Korea would be met with 'fire and fury' if it made any more threats to the U.S.
A five-year-old boy died when he fell from his kitchen window on the 15th storey of an east London tower block, an inquest has heard.

Aalim Ahmed landed on a railing at the bottom of the residential block in Plaistow.

Aalim's body was identified by his family and his cause of death has been listed as multiple injuries due to trauma from a 'fall from height'.

The boy died instantly and his father discovered his body shortly before 6am on May 16, Walthamstow Coroner's Court heard on Friday.

Members of the public contacted emergency services after residents heard the man's 'distressed' cries.

Aalim Ahmed, 5, died when he fell from his kitchen window on the 15th storey of an east London tower block (pictured), an inquest has heard

He landed on a railing at the bottom of the residential block called Jacobs House in Plaistow, London

Paramedics attended the scene outside Jacobs House on New City Road at 6.04am and police arrived three minutes later.

Assistant coroner Ian Wade KC said he was opening a 'coronial investigation' because he is 'quite satisfied that Ahmed's death was not from natural causes'.

The boy was previously named locally as Aalim Makial Jibril and a GoFundMe has raised just over 1,000 for his funeral costs.

Flowers were left at the scene and Newham Council is investigating the circumstances.

Abi Gbago, chief executive of the council, said: 'We are undertaking a full investigation to reach the fullest possible understanding of what happened, and will fully support any other investigations.

'Once all of the relevant facts are established and investigations are concluded, which we will do as quickly as possible, we will provide an update.'

Caroline Stone, head teacher at New City Primary School in Plaistow, said in the school's weekly newsletter: 'As you will have heard, Aalim had a tragic accident yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.'
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leaned into the 'brain worm' mockery as he railed former President Donald Trump over his COVID-19 response.

Kennedy spoke late Friday afternoon at the Libertarian National Convention at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., where Trump is slated to speak tomorrow.

Both Kennedy and Trump want to siphon off Libertarian voters, despite the party being poised to select their own nominee.

'Maybe a brainworm ate that part of my memory,' Kennedy said. 'I don't recall any part of the United States Constitution where there's an exemption for pandemics.'

Kennedy, who is currently trying to secure his own place on ballots around the nation, was received warmly by the crowd, especially when he railed against the Trump-imposed lockdowns in the early months of the pandemic.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leaned into the 'brainworm' mockery as he railed former President Donald Trump over his COVID-19 response during an appearance Friday at the Libertarian National Convention

The former Democrat - who changed to an independent in October when his presidential bid wasn't picking up enough steam to dent President Joe Biden - noted how Trump came in an touted his business bonafides.

Then he 'gave the keys to all of our businesses to a 50-year bureaucrat who's never been elected to anything,' Kennedy said, referencing Dr. Anthony Fauci, one of the leaders of both Trump and Biden's COVID-19 response.

'President Trump presided over the greatest restriction on individual liberties this country has ever known,' Kennedy said.

Kennedy, who's long been a prominent vaccine skeptic, also slapped the Biden administration for reaching out to social media companies during the early weeks of the Democrat's tenure to knock down medical 'malinformation' - 'which is information that is factually accurate but it's nonetheless inconvenient.'

'I'm curious to know how President Trump is going to defend his attacks on the Constitution when I meet him on the debating stage,' the independent hopeful later added.

The first presidential debate will be hosted by CNN on June 27 and Kennedy is facing an uphill battle to appear onstage alongside the two major party contenders.

The Biden campaign pushed banning third-party candidates from the debate stage outright.

Attendees at the Libertarian National Convention, which is taking place at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., clap during Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s speech Friday afternoon. They will pick their own nominee, but invited other presidential candidates to speak

The brother of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, Gabriel Shipton (pictured) was among those attending the Libertarian National Convention in Washington, D.C. this week. Robert F. Kennedy commended Assange during his Friday speech

But CNN and ABC, which will host the second debate in September, set polling requirements for third party contenders - they will need to hit 15 percent in four national polls during a stated time period.

As of Friday the Kennedy campaign said the candidate had received enough support in three of the four polls needed.

Kennedy will also need to appear on enough states' ballots to win 270 Electoral College votes in the general election.

During Friday's appearance at the Libertarian National Convention, Kennedy got the most cheers for praising both Julian Assange, the Wikileaks founder, and Edward Snowden, who both exposed U.S. government secrets.

'Julian Assange should be celebrated as a hero,' Kennedy said, as the audience erupted in a 'Free Julian Assange' chant.

Assange's brother Gabriel Shipton was attending the conference.

The Wikileaks founder is currently in custody on the United Kingdom.

Robert F. Kennedy received the loudest cheers when he applauded both Edward Snowden and Julian Assange, promising to pardon Snowden and have charges dropped for the Wikileaks founder, who is in custody in the United Kingdom

Of Snowden the presidential hopeful said, 'He's a hero not a criminal.'

'I'm going to do what President Trump should have done,' Kennedy pledged. 'On my first day I'm going to pardon Edward Snowden and I'm going to drop all charges against Julian Assange.'

Biden said last month that he's 'considering' dropping all charges against Assange, an ask that has been made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, as Assange is Australian.

The current president was also invited to appear at the Libertarian National Convention but declined the offer.

He's spending part of Memorial Day weekend at home in Wilmington, Delaware and will deliver a commencement address at West Point.
A Sydney father says he wants answers after his son allegedly tried to kill his mother and brother without warning.

Emergency services were called to a home on Sydenham Rd in Marrickville, in Sydney's inner west, just before 6pm on Thursday after reports of a stabbing near Marrickville High School.

Paramedics discovered a 25-year-old man with stab wounds to his face, neck, head and back, and a 55-year-old woman who had a stab wound to her throat.

Jackyy Dang, 22, was arrested at the scene and taken to Newtown Police Station.

Jackyy Dang's father said he has no clue why his son allegedly carried out the attack

'I don't know what happened to my family,' Mr Dang told Nine News on Friday.

He explained he got home at 5.30pm and went for a shower while his wife and two sons were in the dining room.

'I can't hear what was happened outside ... When i came out everything was a mess.'

When he realised what had happened he ran outside and called triple zero.

Police said the attack had been planned but there was no warning, the family was not known to police and there is no history of mental illness.

'I want to know the answers; for my son and and for my wife,' Mr Dang said.

Paramedics were called to Sydenham Road in Marrickville just before 6pm, where they found the two injured people near Marrickville High School

Both were rushed to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, with the woman now in a stable condition and the man fighting for his life but now stable.

Police established a crime scene and are investigating the circumstances that led to the incident.

Detective Inspector Ben Kennis said a man arrested over the incident was the brother of the 25-year-old and the son of the 55-year-old woman.

'We will allege (the accused) had been planning this for some time,' Inspector Kennis told media on Friday.

'It was a quite confronting scene on Sydenham Rd in Marrickville.

'This is a very serious domestic violence related incident.

'We take this very, very seriously and a brief of evidence will be prepared for the court.'

Detectives said the family who live in a quiet suburban street were not known to police

Inspector Kennis said police are investigating if the man's father, who was allegedly in the home at the time of the attack, was another intended target.

'The father was not in the room at the time and managed to run out the front of the premises and spoke to a witness, who alerted emergency services,' he said.

The 22-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Newtown Police Station.

He's been charged with two counts of cause wounding/grievous bodily harm to person with intent to murder.

The man did not apply for bail at Newtown Local Court on Friday, and his case will return to court on July 18.
By Nam Hyun-woo

President Yoon Suk Yeol has taken flak from the opposition for appointing a former presidential secretary who used to work for impeached former President Park Geun-hye as a new secretary for civil and social agenda.

According to the presidential office, Friday, Jeong Ho-seong, who served a prison term for his involvement in the massive corruption scandal involving Park, began working as the third secretary for civil and social agenda.

Jeong is a long-time aide for former President Park, serving for her since 1998 when Park became a lawmaker. After Park took office in 2013, Jeong was appointed as a presidential personal secretary to manage the presidents schedule and write some of her public addresses.

Back then, Jeong was mentioned as one of the doorknob trio, a term that refers to three key presidential secretaries of Park who exerted significant influence over all state affairs.

During Parks impeachment process, Jeong was sentenced to an 18-month prison term for leaking confidential documents including the presidents speeches to Choi Soon-sil, Parks long-time civilian confidant, upon Parks orders. The prosecutor who indicted Jeong at the time was Yoon Suk Yeol, who was one of the lead prosecutors of the special counsel probe on Park and who later went on to become the nation's president.

Yoon is building a fortress to hide himself, DPK spokesperson No Jong-myeon said. This time, he hired former presidential secretary Jeong, who was one of the doorknob trio. Jeong is the main culprit of former President Parks scandal due to his leaking documents to Choi, and he was detained and indicted by Yoon himself.

Minor opposition Rebuilding Korea Party Chairman Cho Kuk also slammed Yoons decision.

Isn't he one of the people who ruined the Park Geun-hye administration? Cho said during a radio interview with broadcaster MBC. During that investigation and prosecution of Jeong, Yoon pounded a lot of criticisms and accusations. There must be a reason why he was hired. He must have some special skills or connections, but I think its shameful.

In the Yoon administration, there are three secretaries under the senior presidential secretary for civil and social agenda  the secretary for social integration, the secretary for civil society and communication and the secretary for civil affairs.

The presidential office will soon rename the position as the first, second and third secretary for civil and social agenda, with Jeong being appointed as the third secretary to take care of communications with religious and civic groups.
Massacres of newborn lambs by armies of ravens are threatening the viability of Scottish sheep farming, it was claimed yesterday.

One shepherd has revealed he considered quitting his career after 220 lambs were killed on a single farm. Five ewes also had to be destroyed.

Finn Yorston, who tends flocks on Balnabroich Farm near Blairgowrie in Perthshire told The Times he lost 30 lambs in a single day and that the growing raven population had brought a surge in attacks.

The 45-year-old said: I have been a been a shepherd for 30 years and this was the worst lambing I have ever experienced. He added: It is the only time in my life I nearly quit. I was born and bred on a hill and I think I am pretty tough, but it has been heartbreaking. Ravens are a protected species in Scotland which means a licence is needed to kill them. Estimates of their numbers range between 2,500 breeding pairs and 6,000.

The Scottish Governments wildlife agency NatureScot says they tend to feed in large flocks which allows them to target prey much larger than they are.

Ravens eye up their prey in a lambing field in the Caithness

Ravens feed in large flocks which allows them to target prey much larger than they are

They are members of the crow family and noted for their intelligence. Mr Yorston said they had learned to coordinate their attacks, luring ewes into defending one of their lambs, then preying on its twin.

In one particularly distressing incident he spent hours helping to deliver a lamb from a ewe which was struggling with the birth, only to discover a raven had killed the newborn the next day.

While raven attacks are an annual problem for sheep farmers, Mr Yorston said they had increased dramatically this year, costing the farm between 30,000 and 40,000.

The shepherd said he had counted 84 ravens on the farm, but NatureScot gave permission only for four to be killed. This was later increased to nine.

Mike Nairn, the farm manager, said the licence had little effect given the numbers of ravens predating on lambs there and that the attacks had continued.

He told The Scottish Farmer: We have observed a significant increase in the raven population at Balnabroich Farm in recent years  they seriously threaten the viability of an upland sheep farming enterprise as well as causing multiple distressing instances of cruelty to the sheep flock. He said the farm is now selling 500 sheep, as they stand no chance if the ravens return, and the farm needs time to recover.

A NatureScot spokesman said: We recognise the damage that ravens can cause to livestock and the impact this has on farmers. We issue licences to control ravens to those who are suffering or likely to suffer serious damage to their livestock where there is no other satisfactory solution.

These licences permit the shooting of some of the birds that are causing the damage, with the aim of removing problem birds and deterring other ravens.
A man who bought chicken breasts from three different stores was shocked to learn how different they were.

Kalani Smith, who's known as Kalani Ghost Hunter on social media, posted a TikTok video on May 21 of him comparing chicken breast he bought at Walmart, Perdue and from his local butcher in Tennessee.

The ghost hunter picked up each of the unopened packages of standard chicken breast from each store and showing the scales he would use to weigh them.

The video of Smith's 'scary' discovery has received over one million views, and more than 5,000 TikTokers have left comments blown away by the different sizes of the chickens.

Right away, he pointed out some of the differences between the chicken breasts before he took them out of their packaging.

Kalani Smith, who's known as Kalani Ghost Hunter on social media, posted a TikTok video on May 21 of him comparing three chicken breasts purchased at different locations

'Visually, you can see there's a huge difference between what we're getting at our local butcher from a farm, compared to what they're giving us at Walmart,' said Smith.

Pointing to the small words on the Walmart package, he said that its chicken breast could have 'up to 5 percent water retained.'

From that note, Smith, primarily known for his food and ghost hunting-themed videos on social media, decided to take one piece of chicken breast from each brand and weigh them on a scale.

One chicken breast from a package he bought at his local butcher shop in Tennessee weight 187 grams on a scale, while the others weighed more than 300

Smith first took the biggest chicken breast from his local butcher shop and carefully put it on the scale, revealing the farm-fresh version weighed 187 grams.

The ghost hunter then removed a Walmart chicken breast, but would have to trim the fat so the results would be 'as accurate as possible.'

The TikToker was nearly speechless after he saw that the weight of the Walmart chicken breast after he trimmed it came in at 392 grams.

Smith moved on to the Perdue chicken breast, which he claimed was 'supposed to be a little bit better quality than Walmart.'

@kalanighosthunter THIS IS SCARY- Comparing chicken breast from my local butcher to Big Chains  original sound - Kalani Ghost Hunter

However, his jaw dropped as soon as he found out that the Perdue chicken breast weighed 347 grams.

'If you compare the percentage difference between the smallest breast we have to the largest, it's 109.6 percent bigger at Walmart than it is from our butcher,' said Smith.

'The Perdue breast is a little bit smaller, and it's 85.56 percent bigger than the breast from our butcher, but 5 percent was supposed to be water.'

The TikToker was nearly speechless when he saw that the weight of the Walmart chicken breast, after he had trimmed it, weighed 392 grams

Smith's jaw dropped as soon as he found out that the Perdue chicken breast weighed 347 grams

Smith's 'alarming' discovery comes one month after Walmart made a multi-million dollar settlement for inflating the weight of the meat contents in its packaging.

Customers were eligible to get refunds on several chicken purchases, including 10 kinds of chicken breast products.

'We will continue providing our customers everyday low prices to help them save money on the products they want and need,' a Walmart spokesperson told CNBC last month.

'We still deny the allegations, however we believe a settlement is in the best interest of both parties.'

Various TikTokers who watched Smith's video have spoken out about his alarming results.

The chicken discovery came just one month after Walmart was in a multi-million dollar settlement after the chain was accused of inflating its meat products

'The bucher one looks normal chicken. The other ones look like giant abnormal monster chicken,' a TikToker wrote on May 21.

At least two TikTokers joked that the extra weight in the Walmart and Perdue chicken breasts were 'growth hormones.'

However, one person wrote why there may be so much weight in the chicken breasts.

'It's injected with water plus preservatives that makes it bigger but when cooked a lot of water is released,' the TikToker wrote.

Others have agreed with that commenter and noted that heavier chicken will cost more money.

'You should definitely cook them all for the same time and weigh them after,' a TikToker suggested in their comment.

'I bet those big ones lose a lot of weight but the butcher ones wont loose near as much.'
Images of a heartbroken chimpanzee in a Valencia, Spain zoo show how she is still carrying her deceased infant's remains while she performs her daily routines.

Visitors to the Bioparc zoo in Valencia have been moved by the sight of the grieving chimp, named Natalia, who has been carrying her dead baby with her, unable to say goodbye.

The zoo said in a statement on May 10 that Natalia lost her child back in February when it was only a few days old, a common occurrence with the species which has a high infantile mortality rate.

'This is a conduct that has been previously observed in chimpanzees, not only in zoos but also in the wild,' Miguel Casares, the head of Bioparc, said.

Like humans, chimpanzees may mourn the deaths of those close to them, but it is unusual for the process to be so stark or so long.

Natalia, a chimpanzee that has carried her dead baby for months, weeps as she sits on a rock at Valencia's Bioparc, Spain

Natalia, lost her child when it was only a few days old when it died, and has carried its body around with her since it died three months ago.

According to experts, Natalia's behaviour is part of a grieving process primates go through, however hers has lasted longer than normal

Natalia sits on a rock at Valencia's Bioparc zoo, holding her baby's remains.

The mother chimpanzee has refused to leave the cadaver of her dead baby

Natalia had already lost one of her offspring in 2018.

Nevertheless, Casares said it must be respected, just as it is in humans.

'Our visitors, who at first are quite shocked by the sight of a dead baby, understand as soon as we explain to them why we have left it and why we keep it under observation.'

Natalia had already lost one of her offspring in 2018, so she has been closely monitored this time.

Chimpanzees are among the most endangered primates in Africa, where a wild population of 100,000 to 200,000 is suffering from hunting, habitat loss and disease.

The zoo said that the group of chimpanzees are critically endangered and are part of a special programme to try to save them.

It said: 'The Bioparcs of Fuengirola and Valencia are home to the largest group in Spain of chimpanzees of the subspecies Pan troglodytes verus, critically endangered according to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and have a prominent role in the European programme for their protection (EEP).'

According to the Casares, head of the Bioparc zoo, said Natalia's grief should be respected.

Bioparc Valencia said that it did its best to ensure that the species could live in an environment that mirrors their natural habitat as closely as possible, saying: 'It should be emphasised that the animals housed in centres like Bioparc are not pets nor are they domesticated.

'The objective is the preservation of the species, providing them with maximum well-being and, at the same time, favouring their behaviour and natural instinct.

'In this sense, it is necessary to assume the most tragic part, no matter how heartbreaking it may be for people. Now efforts are focused on providing the group with as much peace as possible, with the certainty that they have already overcome similar situations.'
Rebekah Vardy and Coleen Rooney are set to face each other in court once again as the so-called 'Wagatha Christie' case returns for a hearing over legal costs.

Mrs Vardy, 42, was ordered to pay 90 per cent of Ms Rooney's legal fees after she lost the high-profile libel case in July 2022.

Mrs Justice Steyn ruled that Mrs Rooney's viral social media post accusing Mrs Vardy of leaking her private information to the press was 'substantially true'.

In an order from October the same year, the judge ruled that Mrs Vardy should cover the vast majority of Mrs Rooney's costs.

Mrs Rooney, the wife of former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, is believed to have spent more than 2million on the case but 350,000 of that was racked up before the trial.

Pictured: Rebekah Vardy leaves the Royal Courts Of Justice, London in May 2022

Coleen Rooney pictured arriving at at the Royal Courts of Justice in May 2022. Mrs Vardy, 42, was ordered to pay 90 per cent of Ms Rooney's legal fees after she lost the high-profile libel case in July 2022

Mrs Vardy, who is married to Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy, was ordered to pay 800,000 of the costs bill that November.

However, this was not Mrs Rooney's final bill and the case is set to return to the High Court in London for a hearing before a specialist costs judge on Tuesday.

Specialist costs judges assess the expenses incurred during civil cases and rule on how much successful parties can recover.

They can also reduce the costs if needed or if they are deemed to be unreasonable.

The row first erupted back in October 2019 when Mrs Rooney said she had carried out a 'sting operation' and accused Mrs Vardy of leaking information about her private life to the press.

Mrs Rooney publicly claimed Mrs Vardy's account was the source behind three stories in The Sun newspaper featuring fake details she had posted on her private Instagram profile.

These included her travelling to Mexico for a 'gender selection' procedure, her plan to return to TV, and the basement flooding at her home.

Mrs Rooney (pictured, left, at the screening of Coleen Rooney: The Real Wagatha Story in Liverpool in October 2023), the wife of former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney , is believed to have spent more than 2million on the case

Mrs Vardy pictured with Jamie Vardy at The Mirror Pride of Sport Awards in December 2019

Following the high-profile trial, Mrs Justice Steyn ruled in Mrs Rooney's favour, finding it was 'likely' that Mrs Vardy's former agent Caroline Watt had passed information to The Sun and that she 'knew of and condoned this behaviour'.

The judge added that Mrs Vardy had 'actively' engaged, 'directing Ms Watt to the private Instagram account, sending her screenshots of Mrs Rooney's posts, drawing attention to items of potential interest to the press, and answering additional queries raised by the press via Ms Watt'.

The hearing on Tuesday before Senior Costs Judge Andrew Gordon-Saker is due to begin at 10.30am.
CCTV caught the shocking moment that a teenage Jewish boy was 'pelted with stones' walking to the synagogue in an attack in broad daylight in north London.

The Met has now launched an investigation into the assault of the boy, believed to be 16, which is being treated as a hate crime, which took place on Rookwood Road, Hackney around 5.55pm on Saturday May 11.

The boy, dressed in traditional Jewish clothing, was chased by three men, one of whom was throwing stones at him, in the Stamford Hill area of London.

The North London neighbourhood is home to the biggest population of Hasidic Jews in Europe and has long been plagued by anti-Semitic assaults, but these appear to have increased in intensity since the October 7 terror attacks on Israel.

Suspected hate crimes reported to police in recent months include thugs on bikes randomly assaulting pedestrians in traditional Jewish dress, a man walking down a street threatening to 'kill' Jews and an alleged robbery that saw a 20-year-old woman beaten unconscious.

CCTV caught the shocking moment that a teenage Jewish boy was 'pelted with stones' walking to the synagogue in an attack in broad daylight in north London

The Met has now launched an investigation into the assault of the boy, believed to be 16, which is being treated as a hate crime , which took place on Rookwood Road, Hackney around 5.55pm on Saturday May 11

The boy, dressed in traditional Jewish clothing, was chased by three men, one of whom was throwing stones at him, in the Stamford Hill area of London

The victim in the footage is reportedly 'alright' following the attack, as he has got used to antisemitism in the area, the JC reports.

The Metropolitan Police said: 'An investigation is underway after a reported assault of a male in Rookwood Road, N16.

'At around 17:55hrs on Saturday, 11 May, the victim  a Jewish male  was walking on Rookwood Road, N16 when he was approached by another male and allegedly had an item thrown at him.

'The incident was reported to police the next day and an investigation was launched by officers based in Hackney. At this stage, the incident is being treated as hate crime.

'We are aware of a video being shared online and this will form part of our enquiries. We are in contact with the Shomrim and our enquiries are ongoing.

'No arrest have been made at this time.

'Anyone with information should call 101, giving the reference CAD 8409/23MAY. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.'

Neighbourhood watch Shomrim chief Chaim Hochhauser told the outlet that the unprovoked attack happened as the victim walked to the synagogue on Shabbat.

The North London neighbourhood of Stamford Hill (file photo) is home to the biggest population of Hasidic Jews in Europe and has long been plagued by anti-Semitic assaults, but these appear to have increased in intensity since the October 7 terror attacks on Israel

He said the perpetrators have have caused 'quite a lot of trouble' since the October 7 attacks, in attempts to 'frightenand harm the Jewish community'.

Police are investigating the alleged assault but not arrests have been made as of yet.

Shomrim president Rabbi Herschel Gluck told the JC that the hate crimes in the area were being committed by white 'yobs' who are 'exactly the same people who commit Islamophobia'.

He added that they were not doing it because of a side they have taken in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, but because they want to attack vulnerable communities, including Muslim groups.

But Gary Mond, chairman of the UK's National Jewish Assembly, told the Jerusalem Post that the incident was 'yet another example of the growth in Jew hatred in Britain', especially in areas with large Jewish populations.

He said that while Rabbi Gluck was right that there was evidence the perpetrators were 'yobs', that there was a huge rise in attacks on Jews vs other minorities, showing a 'huge problem facing Britain's Jewish community and vigorous enforcement of the law is needed'.
One of five Americans detained in Turks and Caicos on weapons charges will be released after paying a hefty fine.

Bryan Hagerich, 39, from Pennsylvania, was charged with possession of firearms after loose bullets were allegedly found in his luggage in February.

A judge gave him a 52-month suspended sentence and ordered him to pay a $6,500 fine after he pleaded guilty in exchange for his release.

Ryan Watson, 40, Tyler Scott Wenrich, 31, and Sharitta Shinse Grier, 45, all remain trapped on the island, while Michael Lee Evans, 72, was bailed and allowed to fly back to the US as he has a serious medical condition.

They claim they didn't know any bullets were in their bags - saying they could have been left there after hunting trips or by mistake - and asked for mercy.

Bryan Hagerich (pictured with his wife Ashley and their children, Palmer and Catherine) was arrested in February but will soon be home after a plea deal

A judge gave Hagerich (pictured with his kids) a 52-month suspended sentence and ordered him to pay a $6,500 fine after he pleaded guilty in exchange for his release

But a delegation of two US senators, three members of the House and embassy and state department representatives were 'not able to find a path forward' to secure their release, meaning they are still facing 12 years in prison.

Wenrich pleaded guilty on Tuesday and will be sentenced on May 28. Watson and Grier are yet to plead.

Hagerich, Watson, and Grier have been sharing an apartment under house arrest on the Caribbean island while they awaited their fates.

Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey welcomed the news Hagerich would soon be released and go home to his family.

'I'm grateful that the authorities in Turks and Caicos exercised leniency and that Bryan Hagerich will soon be on his way home to his family in Somerset,' he said.

Sharitta Grier, center, is now living in a rental home on the island with Ryan Watson, left, and Bryan Hagerich, seen right, who were all caught with ammunition in their bags

Bryan Hagerich (left) and Ryan Watson (right) are both facing 12 years in Turks and Caicos prison after loose bullets were found in their luggage

Watson and Hagerich cooking inside the apartment they were put in while they await trial

Hagerich before his sentencing said he was hopeful he would be able to get off the island instead of being jailed.

'I never in a million years thought I'd be in Turks and Caicos for over 100 days for a simple mistake,' he told Fox News.

'From the day that I was arrested, the end goal was to get off the island and go home to my family. To think that that day is potentially tomorrow, it's every emotion under the sun.

'There's obviously a lot of anxiety. There [are] a lot of prayers from families, friends, folks we don't even know across the world right now, to hopefully bring that outcome.'

Hagerich was about to head back home to the U.S. and insists he had no intention of bringing ammo to the islands.

He said being away from his family has been difficult.

'As a father, it's my responsibility to provide for my family, to protect my family, to support them in every way imaginable. And for me it's just been catastrophic,' he said in an earlier interview.

Tyler Wenrich, 31, pictured with his wife Jeriann, is also facing 12 years in prison after two 9mm bullets were found in his luggage on April 20 as he departed a bachelor party cruise

Ryan Watson, 40, an avid hunter, said loose hunting bullets were found in his luggage as he and wife his Valerie left their vacation. He still remains on the island

Monday's delegation was hoping to bring the Americans home, but Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma told the Miami Herald: 'Despite our willingness to work with Turks and Caicos officials to get our constituents home, we were not able to find a path forward today.'

He added: 'We went in respectful of their sovereignty, and with an open mind looking to find common ground.

'At this point, well-intentioned American citizens are facing a dozen years in prison all for unknowingly having one or two bullets in their luggage.

'The unintended consequences of TCI's law have been at the expense of well-intentioned American tourists, including a grandmother, who had no intention of breaking the law.'

If the tourists are not released and are jailed, Mullin said: 'We will need to consider additional actions to safeguard American citizens.'

Following the meeting the Turks and Caicos Governor's Office said the government has 'clear laws prohibiting the possession of firearms and/or ammunition and strict penalties are in place to serve and protect all who reside and visit the Turks and Caicos Islands.'

A delegation of two US senators, three members of the House and embassy and state department representatives were 'not able to find a path forward' to secure the release of five US tourists facing a minimum of 12 years in prison

They added: 'Where the court finds there are exceptional circumstances, the sentencing judge does have discretion, under the law, to impose a custodial sentence and a fine that are fair and just in the circumstances of each case.'

The territory tightened their gun laws two years ago and banned civilian firearms or ammunition. Under the stricter rules, offenders are sentenced to a minimum of 12 years in prison.

Republican Pennsylvania Congressman Guy Reschenthaler wants the State Department to issue a no-travel order for Turks and Caicos in response.

This would prevent cruise ships from docking on the island and travel insurers from issuing policies to American travelers.

'Their economy is overwhelmingly based on tourism, well over 70%. And of the tourists, 86% are American,' he told Fox News.

'So, all we have to do is issue a do-not-travel [order] and overnight crash their economy. And hopefully we can get the Americans released, and we would force Turks and Caicos to change this law.'

Grier was the fifth tourist to be arrested last Monday at the Howard Hamilton International Airport, with Turks and Caicos police saying bullets were found 'during a routine security check.'

Ammunition was found in Sharitta Shinese Grier's luggage during a routine security check

Sharitta Shinese Grier is the fifth U.S. tourist to be arrested in Turks and Caicos

Willie Lucas, Grier's mother said it was heartbreaking to leave her daughter behind on the island while the rest of the family returned home to Florida.

'I didn't want to come home,' she told Fox 35. 'Be safe when you go out of town. Just be safe. Be careful and keep us in your prayers, cuz God knows we sure gonna need it.'

Chanchy Willis, Grier's cousin has said it was 'just a horrible mistake' that the ammunition was found.

'Just for two bullets? It was just a horrible mistake for all five of them,' Willis said.

Grier will appear before a judge on July 5.

None of the men who have been arrested - Watson of Oklahoma, Hagerich of Pennsylvania, Wenrich of Virginia, and Evans of Texas - are connected in any way.

'Watching the others and how they are close-knit, and reaching out to her, showing her that she's not alone, they are all in this together, that brings joy to my heart,' Willis said.

Evans, 72, was granted $20,000 bail and given permission to return back to the U.S due to a medical condition, with reports indicating he is suffering from terminal cancer.

Wenrich has been in Turks and Caicos since April 20. He was granted bail and is staying with his father.

Willie Lucas, left, was at a loss for words upon learning that her daughter, Sharitta Grier, had been arrested while visiting the Turks and Caicos on charges of possessing ammunition

Ryan Watson and his wife Valerie pictured together arriving at their Turks and Caicos vacation

Watson, of Oklahoma, said his family was in the dark about his fate, and 'we can't set any kind of expectations on when I can be home to those kids.'

'To not be with my kids, to not be home with Valerie right now, it's the most awful thing that I have ever lived through at this point,' he said during an interview last month.

He said getting back to his children is 'and always will be, my ultimate goal.'

Watson has remained on the islands for almost a month as he faces a June 7 court date.

At one point his wife Valerie also faced prison before her charges were dropped.

A small bag of bullets in a ziplock bag were found in Ryan's luggage, triggering questions as to how American TSA missed them when he left for the vacation through Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma.

'We had no intentions of ever bringing anything into this country. It was just trying to pack board shorts and flip-flops, and that was all we were concerned about bringing,' Watson told Fox News.

Michael Lee Evans, 72, was granted $20,000 bail and given permission to return back to the U.S due to a medical condition, with reports indicating he is suffering from terminal cancer

Bryan Hagerich, 39, left, was arrested in February while Ryan Tyler Watson, 40, right, was charged in April - both with possession of ammunition

Watson has since missed both of his children's birthdays, and said he is terrified of the prospect of missing their childhoods if he is sentenced to the full 12-year term.

'Twelve years is a long time, and all those special things you look forward to as a parent, knowing you potentially couldn't be there for those, that's what keeps me up at night,' he said.

'It never dawned on us to research any of these things. And there are a lot of locals that have been just such a blessing and have had such gracious hearts.'

The detainees must argue before the TCI Superior Court they were arrested under 'exceptional circumstances'.

This includes proving they have no criminal record, they did not intend to bring ammunition into the airport, and why a 12-year sentence would be excessive in their cases.
The death of a former Royal Marine who was accused of spying for Hong Kong is not being treated as suspicious, the police have said.

Matthew Trickett, 37, was discovered by a member of the public in a park close to his home on 19 May after he was charged with espionage offences.

Six days earlier he appeared in the dock at Westminster Magistrates' Court accused of working for the intelligence services of Hong Kong.

His death comes as a co-accused Border Force worker and a retired police officer were also due to appear in court.

In a statement this evening, Thames Valley Police said: 'On Wednesday a Home Office post-mortem was completed on behalf of His Majesty's Coroner. As a result of this and further enquiries conducted by detectives, we can confirm the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Matthew Trickett, 37, was found in a park on 19 May after he was charged with espionage offences

Trickett was found dead at Grenfell Park (pictured) in Maidenhead, Berkshire, six days after his release

'Thames Valley Police is now preparing a file for the Coronial process. Mr Trickett's family are being supported by specialist officers, our thoughts remain with them, and we would kindly ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.'

Before his death, the prosecution had asked for Trickett to be remanded in custody for his own welfare ahead of his next hearing at the Old Bailey, but he was bailed.

The decision was made despite prosecutors warning the court he was suicidal.

At hearing held at the Old Bailey today prosecutors said his cause of death remains unknown and the matter was being reviewed by a coroner in Berkshire.

Alistair Richardson told the court: 'It has been widely reported that Matthew Trickett died on 19 May this year. The cause of death is currently given as unexplained.

'His death has been confirmed by the coroner.'

Mr Richardson added that the case against Trickett had been discontinued after he was found in Grenfell Park, Maidenhead.

Kashif Malik, prosecuting, previously told Westminster Magistrates' Court: 'On Saturday morning he attempted to hurt himself, to commit suicide. The custody team intervened and he is now on a 24-hour watch.

'On two separate occasions he told custody sergeants when he is released he will kill himself, he has nothing to live for. How realistic that is, we don't know, but having already tried to harm himself while in prison, he should be remanded in custody for his own safety.'

The private investigator and border official was due to attend court alongside Chi Leung Wai, 38, also known as Peter Wai, and Chung Biu Yuen, 63, also known as Billy Yuen today.

Chi Leung Wai, 38, (pictured) appeared at the Old Bailey accused of spying for Hong Kong

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said his body had been found seven days later: 'At around 5.15pm on Sunday officers attended Grenfell Park, Maidenhead, following a report from a member of the public'

They are charged with 'assisting a Foreign Intelligence Service between 20 December 2023 and 2 May 2024'.

The allegations against them include 'agreeing to undertake information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception, that was likely to materially assist a foreign intelligence service'.

While a second says on 1 May 2024, they 'engaged in prohibited conduct, namely, forcing entry into a UK residential address'.

They were charged under the National Security Act, brought in last year to target those working secretly for hostile states within the UK.

Wai, a UK Border Force officer was based at London Heathrow Airport and is also a City of London special constable.

Former police officer Yuen is an office manager at Hong Kong's Economic and Trade Office in London.

Chung Biu Yuen, 63, (pictured) is also accused of spying for Hong Kong

Mr Trickett was found dead on Sunday at around 5.15pm by police in Grenfell Park (file photo), Maidenhead, following a report from a member of the public

Justin Hugheston Roberts, defending Wai, said: 'The death is a tragedy as far as the defendant is concerned - but there we are.'

Wai, of Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, and Yuen, of Hackney, east London, were released on bail on the conditions they abide curfews between 10pm-5am, reporting at relevant police stations, surrendering their passports, do not applying for any international travel documents, do not entering any international travel hubs and do not have any travel documents.

Mr Justice Jeremy Baker told Yuen and Wai they should abide by their bail conditions.

'If you do not do so what will be a criminal offence in itself,' the judge said.

'You could be separately punished and find yourself in custody.'

The judge added: 'It will be in your interest to attend the trial because the judge could decide to proceed in your absence.'

Trickett was born in Poole, Dorset, in 1987, and enlisted into the Marines in 2007.

He fought against the Taliban in Afghanistan and Somali pirates in the Red Sea before leaving the military six year later.

For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support
Two men from Greater Manchester will face trial next year accused of preparing to carry out an ISIS-inspired machinegun attack on Jewish targets and members of law enforcement and the military.

Walid Saadaoui, 36, from Abram, near Wigan, allegedly agreed to pay an undercover officer for four machineguns and a handgun, together with 1,200 rounds of ammunition and arranged a safehouse for their storage.

He travelled to Dover in March with Amar Hussein, 50, 'with the aim of conducting reconnaissance of the port security' where the weapons were to be imported.

Saadaoui was arrested on the evening of May 8 as he prepared to take receipt of the weapons and Hussein arrested at a separate location. Both men are charged with preparation of terrorist acts.

They appeared at the Old Bailey by video link from Wormwood Scrubs prison wearing grey prison issue tracksuits alongside Saadaoui's younger brother, Bilel, 35, from Hindley near Wigan who was arrested at a gym on May 8.

Walid Saadaoui, 36, from Abram, near Wigan, allegedly agreed to pay an undercover officer for four machineguns and a handgun, together with 1,200 rounds of ammunition and arranged a safehouse for their storage

A police officer is seen standing guard outside a house in Wigan after the anti-terror raids

Bilal Saadaoui is charged with failure to disclose information about an act of terrorism after allegedly taking receipt of Saadaoui's will and the key to a safe containing 75,000.

The brothers are both from Tunisia and have leave to remain in the UK.

Hussein is also from Tunisia and had an interpreter during the hearing but spoke to the court in English. He was not legally represented at the hearing.

Police are seen outside a house in Hindley, Greater Manchester, following a series of raids

Saadaoui's younger brother, Bilel, 35, (pictured) from Hindley near Wigan who was arrested at a gym on May 8

The judge, Mr Justice Jeremy Baker, told Hussein: 'At the moment you don't have a lawyer, is that correct? I imagine you would like to have a lawyer represent you at trial.'

Hussein told the judge: 'I don't need a solicitor. I protect myself.'

The other men spoke only to confirm their names and dates of birth. All three were remanded in custody.

A trial date was set for October 7 2025 at Preston Crown Court with a 12 week time estimate.

A plea and trial preparation hearing is to take place on December 20 at the Old Bailey and a further hearing on October 25 to consider custody time limits.
A mom at a pro-Gaza protest outside of the White House couldn't answer when asked by DailyMail.com about which river and sea are mentioned in a popular anti-Israel chant.

'From the river to the sea Palestine will be free' has become a rallying cry for Hamas terrorists and their supporters calling for the abolishment of Israel.

However, Adrienne, a mother of a sixth grader attending the 'School Strike for Gaza' protest told DailyMail.com that the chant is simply 'referencing the historic land that is Palestine.'

'So it's not a call for violence. It's not a call for the abolishment of Israel. It's merely a call for the freedom of people who are occupied by a colonial power,' she insisted.

But when pressed by DailyMail.com about whether she knows the names of the river and sea in the chant, she could not name them.

Adrienne responded 'Yes, I do' before lamenting about being asked 'hostile questions' and storming away without giving an answer.

The correct answer would be the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea.

'Okay, it seems like you're actually from a right-wing source that wants to ask hostile questions. And so at this point, it doesn't really make a lot of sense for me to continue because I thought this was a journalistic interview and not an attack,' Adrienne said before storming off.

During the testy interview, a protestor dawning a neon yellow traffic vest tried to intervene and cut off Adrienne from answering DailyMail.com's questions.

'Um, are you a spokesperson for the action?' the vest-wearing organizer interrupted.

'Actually, I'm being interviewed as a community member,' Adrienne shot back.

'We generally ask that people who have been media trained to actually talk to media, if that's okay. Would it be cool to finish up here?' the organizer continued.

'I actually have extensive media training,' Adrienne told the man.

'So I understand your concern, absolutely. But we are on video right now. Yeah, so it's a little awkward,' she continued.

She had cornered the vest-wearing pro-Gaza organizer, forcing him to fold.

'I can't push you to do anything. Have a great day,' he said before walking away.

'Sorry about that,' Adrienne told DailyMail.com.

In total, there were roughly 70 activists at the demonstration, which started blocks away from the White House before the group marched to Joe Biden's current home.

Palestinian flags and keffiyehs were numerous, as were activists with megaphones and protest supporters lugging audio equipment, snacks, water and other commonly seen protest supplies.

There was also a sign reading 'Queer youth for Palestine,' indicating that the group had welcomed broad swaths of intersectional activists.

A group of high school students from the Washington, D.C. area held a protest to demand an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. Roughly half of the attendants did not appear to be of high school age

Adrienne said she knew which river and sea the protestors we're chanting about, but declined to say which ones before walking away from the interview

A demonstrator marched with a sign emblazoned with 'Queer youth for Palestine!'

Before marching over to the White House, the event began blocks away at McPherson Square

A poster circulated on social media and encrypted messaging apps to tip off protestors to the planned demonstration

Besides the crotchety back-and-forth with the organizer and the claim that DailyMail.com's questions were an 'attack,' Adrienne did provide interesting insights into the local pro-Palestinian movement.

The mother revealed that she has been apart of a group of local protest organizers responsible for aiding demonstrations across the area using group chats on the encrypted messaging service Signal to coordinate their actions.

'I've been part of organizing D.C. residents - who are organizing in this area - to stop the genocide since this phase of the genocide started, and so I'm on a number of Signal groups.'

'Right now we're building on the momentum of the incredible encampment movement of university students and communities alongside them, which really saw its biggest example here in D.C. at the GW encampments, which as I'm sure you know, were violently evicted with the help of DC of DC police.'

She was referring to the large weeklong student protest at George Washington University that was broken up by police after the university president requested help from local law enforcement.

Earlier this month, D.C. police were asked by George Washington University's president to clear the pro-Gaza student encampment after protestors refused to leave a school lawn for more than a week

The local law enforcement eventually cleared the camp early on May 8, leading to arrests

After the GW camp was cleared, workers removed tents, trash and remaining debris

Adrienne continued calling the police response 'fascist' and likened the university student's experience to those of Palestinians living in Gaza during the war.

She said the encampment being cleared 'has given the students even greater resolve and shown them that the fascist repression of their activism in solidarity with Palestinians is intimately linked to the kinds of oppressions that Palestinians are experiencing in their homeland.'

When DailyMail.com pressed her on whether D.C. police were indeed fascists, Adrienne responded 'U.S. police officers, many forces around the country, are trained by Israelis.'

The sixth grader's mother also slammed Biden for his support of Israel, and noted how there is an organized effort to write in 'Gaza' for the upcoming D.C. Democrat primary elections.

'He's supporting a genocide,' Adrienne said of the president.

'And there are a lot of people in the United States who don't support genocide and that's putting his victory and the victory for Democrats at risk.'

'Voters have made that clear around the country with uncommitted campaigns. And here in DC there is a campaign for people to write in a vote for Gaza at the Democratic primary.'

At the event, flyers were distributed urging D.C. Democrat primary voters to not vote for President Joe Biden but instead write in 'Gaza' as the candidate they wish to support

The flyers made sure to indicate that writing in 'Gaza' would not help Donald Trump

Simone, a high schooler who spent weeks organizing the event, slammed Biden for promising to halt the Israel-Hamas war, but then not fulfilling his pledge

Another protestor, Simone - a local high school student who helped organize the event - also did not mince words about Biden's approach to the war.

'He just gave a speech at Morehouse. And it's like 'we're gonna put an immediate stop to like the genocide happening in Gaza.' But then he came back to DC and was actually 'kind of still have to send them money.''

'It's like he's just consistently like lying to us.'

Simone could not understand why Biden was not meeting protestors demands.

'We're asking for something extremely simple, and you're just like, 'I'm gonna keep funding it' so it keeps happening.'

'We're also demanding that they stop funding the genocide in general, like specifically for Biden to stop funding the genocide that's happening in Gaza right now,' she continued.
Michael Gove has served in numerous different Cabinet-level jobs under four of the last five prime ministers during the past 14 years of Conservative rule.

His departure from the House of Commons will see the exit of someone who has been a near-mainstay in Whitehall while the Tories have been in power.

The 56-year-old has also been a leading player in the explosive drama and chaos at Westminster over the past decade-and-a-half.

He proved, through a series of stunning comebacks, he could never be written off as one of the Tories' great survivalists and most influential politicians of modern times.

Adopted as a child, Mr Gove studied his way into Oxford, established himself first as a senior journalist, then a senior government minister  and later aspired to be the occupant of 10 Downing Street.

His political career will be remembered by some as Machiavellian after he engineered the downfall of his on-off friend Boris Johnson not once, but twice.

Even his critics, however, have to acknowledge he became one of the leading figures in Westminster as he bounced in and out of the Cabinet, holding multiple roles.

His intelligence, sharp wit, and staunch defence of free journalism have all helped him stand out from the crowd.

He is also well known for his love of partying outside of politics, having been famously pictured clubbing in Aberdeen in 2021.

Mr Gove is currently Levelling Up Secretary and also Rishi Sunak's minister for intergovernmental relations.

In his myriad of past roles, he was previously Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Cabinet Office minister under Mr Johnson, and Environment Secretary under Theresa May.

Prior to that, Mr Gove served as Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor, Chief Whip, and Education Secretary under David Cameron.

Michael Gove has served in numerous different Cabinet-level jobs under four of the last five prime ministers during the past 14 years of Conservative rule

It was as part of the Tory 'Notting Hill set' - an informal group of young Conservative figures who corralled around David Cameron's leadership - that Mr Gove first rose to prominence

It was during the EU referendum campaign that Mr Gove forged an alliance with fellow Brexit champion Boris Johnson

The 56-year-old is also well known for his love of partying outside of politics, having been famously pictured clubbing in Aberdeen in 2021

Born in 1967, he was adopted by the Labour-voting Goves in Aberdeen aged four months.

Revealing he was adopted while he was still young, his mother Christine Gove told him: 'You're different from other children because we chose you. You didn't grow under my heart, you grew in it.'

Mr Gove has later claimed the struggles his father Ernest's fishing business suffered thanks to EU regulations motivated his politics.

By the time the voracious reader arrived to study English at Oxford in the 1980s, he was a Tory 'young fogey' in tweeds.

He found himself among 'posher' university contemporaries including Mr Johnson, who he helped get elected as Oxford Union president.

After working at The Times as a senior writer, Mr Gove became a Conservative MP in Surrey in 2005.

It was as part of the Tory 'Notting Hill set' - an informal group of young Conservative figures who corralled around Mr Cameron's leadership - that Mr Gove first rose to prominence in the Noughties.

Mr Gove was a shadow minister in Mr Cameron's top team until the Tories entered government at the 2010 general election after agreeing a coalition deal with the Liberal Democrats.

He then spent four years as Education Secretary before the first big setback of his political career when he was demoted to Chief Whip.

It came amid claims private Tory polling had shown Mr Gove to be a toxic liability among teachers, following his efforts to push through radical reforms.

Aided by his adviser Dominic Cummings, Mr Gove introduced moves to restore the importance of traditional teaching while fighting 'the Blob' of resistance from left-wing teachers and trendy education experts.

His demotion also came shortly after a public spat with Mrs May - the then-Home Secretary - saw Mr Gove forced to apologise.

The two leading Cabinet ministers had clashed over an alleged 'Trojan Horse' plot by hardline Islamists in some Birmingham schools, with a bitter briefing war between the two sides erupting in the media.

After the Tories won a surprise majority at the 2015 general election, Mr Gove was promoted back to the top table of British politics after being handed the role of Justice Secretary by Mr Cameron.

Mr Gove advised Mr Cameron against holding a Brexit referendum.

But Mr Cameron's decision to push ahead with an in/out EU vote caused a deep schism in the Conservative Party - with Mr Gove and the then-premier placing themselves on opposite sides of the split.

Mr Cameron was said to have felt enormous betrayal at his old friend Mr Gove's decision to turn against him and take a leading role in the Vote Leave campaign.

It was during the EU referendum campaign that Mr Gove forged an alliance with fellow Brexit champion Mr Johnson.

Mr Gove famously declared during the Leave versus Remain battle that 'the people of this country have had enough of experts', in response to the Establishment's support for the EU.

The referendum campaign culminated in a remarkable press conference on the morning of 24 June 2016, when both Mr Gove and Mr Johnson seemed stunned that they had emerged on the winning side.

What followed was another bout in the Tory psychodrama as Mr Gove initially backed Mr Johnson to replace Mr Cameron as Conservative leader and PM.

But, in one of the most stunning events in Westminster in recent years, Mr Gove then stabbed Mr Johnson in the back and launched his own campaign for the leadership.

This prompted Mr Johnson to pull out of the race and, after Mr Gove failed to win the requisite support of Tory MPs, Mrs May went on to win the contest.

When Theresa May was eventually forced from office in the summer of 2019, Mr Gove mounted another bid for the Tory leadership

Mr Gove supported Mr Sunak's leadership campaign against Liz Truss during their bitter battle to succeed Mr Johnson

Brexit guru Lord Frost 'is free to stand as MP' Lord Frost was last night told he has not been blocked from standing as a Conservative MP, despite being kept off the candidates list. Friends of the former Brexit minister yesterday claimed that he had been barred from standing at the General Election after accusing Rishi Sunak of pursuing 'socialist solutions'. Lord Frost, who was given a peerage by prime minister Boris Johnson in 2020, has previously indicated that he is keen to become an MP, saying: 'The Commons is where you need to be if you want to influence things.' Tory insiders confirmed that Lord Frost had been kept off the approved candidates list after indicating he was unwilling to relinquish his peerage until the election was called. But now that the election is going ahead on July 4, the candidates list has been set aside to allow Conservative Central Office to negotiate directly with constituency associations that have not yet selected an MP about who will stand. The Prime Minister said there was no bar on Lord Frost standing, telling GB News yesterday: 'David Frost has not been blocked from standing as a candidate at the election in July. 'That is just not right.' 'The process only opened on Wednesday night and it takes time for the process to conclude for candidates selection. It is not true to say he has been blocked.' Advertisement

Mrs May snubbed Mr Gove for a government role when she first entered Downing Street as she sacked him as Justice Secretary.

She was reported to have told him to 'go and learn about loyalty on the backbenches'.

His spell without a ministerial role - the first time he had been without a government job since May 2010 - saw him return to his earlier career as a journalist and he interviewed US president-elect Donald Trump for The Times.

But, again, Mr Gove displayed a remarkable ability for political survival when he returned to Cabinet as Environment Secretary after Mrs May's decision to go for a snap general election in June 2017 back-fired and she lost the Tories' majority.

Mr Gove supported Mrs May's Brexit deal through the dramatic battles in Parliament, when many of her MPs turned against her over her plans.

When she was eventually forced from office in the summer of 2019, Mr Gove mounted another bid for the Tory leadership.

But his campaign was sunk when it was revealed he had taken cocaine 'on several occasions' in the past.

Mr Johnson went on to succeed Mrs May as PM and he and Mr Gove appeared to enjoy a return to harmonious relations when he appointed his former foe as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

Mr Gove became a key player in Mr Johnson's administration as he took charge of no-deal Brexit preparations, and then chaired meetings between the four nations of the UK during the Covid pandemic.

Yet there was to be another bitter falling out between the two men amid Mr Johnson's downfall in the wake of the Partygate and Chris Pincher scandals.

After he urged Mr Johnson to resign, Mr Gove was fired as Levelling Up Secretary.

A No 10 source said at the time: 'You can't have a snake who is not with you on any of the big arguments who then gleefully tells the press the leader has to go.'

Mr Gove subsequently spent a second prolonged spell on the Tory backbenches after he supported Mr Sunak's leadership campaign against Liz Truss during their bitter battle to succeed Mr Johnson.

Ms Truss refused to hand Mr Gove a Cabinet job when she entered No10, but after her premiership dramatically exploded after just 49 days, he returned to his former role as Levelling Up Secretary under Mr Sunak.

It is perhaps no surprise that Mr Cameron has written of Mr Gove: 'One quality shone through, disloyalty. Disloyalty to me and, later, disloyalty to Boris.'

Even an unnamed Tory supporter of Mr Gove has said: 'Call it Machiavellian if you want, but he has an urge to ensure things turn out in the way he thinks they should - he will meddle even if he or others get burnt.'

Mr Gove has previously found time at dinner tables to perform self-penned 'gentlemen raps'  with his 'Bojo song', praising Mr Johnson in rap style as 'The million pound NHS funder... A golden wonder... Vote Leave made him top gunner'.
The ruling and main opposition parties wrangled Friday over how to reform the national pension scheme as the opposition leader called for passing a reform plan next week.

The ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) have agreed on the need to raise the premium from the current 9 percent to 13 percent of income, but diverged on the income replacement rate, or pension as a percentage of a subscriber's average income over their lifetime.

The PPP has proposed an income replacement rate of 44 percent, up from the 40 percent set for 2028, while the DPK has suggested 45 percent.

DPK leader Lee Jae-myung has called for passing the pension reform plan during a plenary session scheduled for next Tuesday, the final session before the current National Assembly's term expires.

"The DPK is pushing ahead with a plenary session without agreement between the rival parties, and politically using the pension reform in order to unilaterally pass the special counsel bill," PPP floor leader Choo Kyung-ho said during a party meeting. "It is truly bad politics."

Choo was referring to a bill on the appointment of a special counsel to investigate the military's response to a Marine's death last year, which President Yoon Suk Yeol vetoed this week and will be up for a revote during Tuesday's plenary session.

"The People Power Party considers the pension reform plan a key task to be handled with priority with the people's sympathy during the 22nd National Assembly," he said, referring to the incoming parliament.

Lee, meanwhile, called for a "grand compromise" on the pension reform plan, saying a deal has to be reached at all costs, including a possible meeting between him and Yoon or between Yoon and the rival parties' leaders.

"It doesn't make sense to say we should start discussions from scratch because of a difference in opinion of 1 percentage point," he said during a DPK Supreme Council meeting. "The Democratic Party is fully open to making a decision between 45 percent and 44 percent."

The DPK later said the presidential office effectively rejected Lee's proposal to hold talks with Yoon on the pension reform plan, which he posted on Facebook the previous day.

Lee's chief of staff, Cheon Jun-ho, told reporters he reached out to Hong Chul-ho, senior presidential secretary for political affairs, to arrange a Yoon-Lee meeting, but got a "regrettable" response.

"When the rival parties wrap up their discussions, the government will collect opinions and listen to experts' views before determining its position," Cheon quoted Hong as saying. "For now, it is difficult for the president and the government to join the discussions."

Revamping the national pension system is one of Yoon's key agenda items amid deepening concerns the pension fund could be depleted sooner than expected due to rapid aging. The state-run National Pension Service said earlier that the fund is forecast to be exhausted by 2055 after experiencing a shortfall starting in 2041.

Korea is anticipated to have the world's largest share of people aged 65 years or older by 2044 due to rapid aging, according to data from Statistics Korea. (Yonhap)
An NHS hospital was guilty of neglect when it sent a dying schoolboy home from hospital with painkillers, an inquest has ruled.

Dylan Cope, nine, suffered a burst appendix which led to a sepsis infection spreading right through his body.

A coroner ruled that if Dylan had been kept in hospital to have his appendix removed 'his death would have been avoided'.

His heartbroken parents Laurence and Corinne wept as they heard their son died from a gross failure of basic care.

The couple said there were 'numerous missed opportunities' to save their 'loving and unique' son.

The family GP had sent him to A&E at the Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran, South Wales, with suspected appendicitis on 6 Dec 2022 after he complained of 'excruciating' pain.

But an inquest heard paediatric nurse practitioner Samantha Hayden's examination of the schoolboy was 'inadequate' and Dr Lianne Doherty did not carry out a senior review before Dylan was discharged.

Nine-year-old Dylan died after being sent home from hospital with painkillers

Dylan was sent to A&E at the Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran in December 2022

Senior Gwent Coroner Caroline Saunders said: 'There were a number of individual errors which resulted in Dylan being sent home from hospital when he should have remained.

'This amounted to a gross failure of basic care.

Dylan was suspected of having appendicitis

'If there had been a senior review Dr Doherty would have noted the GP's assessment that Dylan may have had appendicitis.

'His temperature and pulse were rising - Dr Doherty would have ordered bloods, kept him in hospital to be seen by the surgical team.'

Instead Dylan went home with a leaflet on coughs and colds and his parents were advised to give him Calpol and Nurofen.

Four days later, on December 10, Dylan's condition deteriorated and he was readmitted to the Grange Hospital and transferred to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.

Surgeons removed his perforated appendix but he went into cardiac arrest and died four days later when life support was withdrawn.

He died on December 14 of septic shock and multiple organ failure.

Gwent Coroner Caroline Saunders recorded a narrative verdict saying Dylan was 'erroneously discharged.'

She said: 'His condition warranted further observation and assessment.

'The effects of sepsis proved overwhelming. Dylan's death would have been avoided if he had not been erroneously discharged from the Grange University Hospital.

'His death was contributed to by neglect.'

In her summing up the coroner said the failure of Dylan to receive a senior review was due to a misunderstanding, not a system failure.

She praised the couple for their 'extreme bravery' in attending all five days of the hearing in Newport.

Dylan loved playing with Lego and Rubik's cubes and was looking forward to hitting 'double digits' on his 10th birthday

His father Laurence Cope, said he was 'loving, feisty and sensitive' and nothing delighted him more than hearing Alexa say 'free hugs available in the lounge' when he would eagerly run to get one from a member of the family.

Mr Cope said none of the medics at the Grange Hospital identified themselves or gave their medical qualifications when they examined his son on 6 December 2022.

The father-of-three told the inquest in a written statement that he assumed Dylan was seen by a surgeon. He said: 'He came across as senior in his role and was calm and confident in his demeanour.

'Although calm, casual, relaxed and confident he remained professional as though he was seeing me and Dylan in a professional capacity. He seemed very sure of himself.'

Newport Coroners' Court, where the inquest into Dylan's death took place

Laurence and Corinne Cope arrive at Newport Coroner's Court

Mr Cope said the doctor, who was in scrubs and a facemask, was in his 30s to 40s, slim to average build, tall and with a slight 'foreign' accent.

The medic told Mr Cope it was 'highly unlikely' Dylan's abdominal pains were connected to his appendix but he could not remember him physically examining his poorly son.

The inquest, in Newport, heard the doctor who was never identified, told the family that Dylan had tested positive for Influenza A which was raging at the time.

The court heard Dylan complained of severe pain on the left side of his abdomen - the appendix is on the right.

Mr Cope added: 'I was given a fact sheet for children with coughs and colds. I felt relieved and reassured that the medics all concluded it was not appendicitis.'

Dylan was given Calpol and Nurofen at home but became more lethargic on Saturday December 10. His worried parents called the emergency number on the discharge note they were given by the Grange University Hospital

After 19 attempts to get through a female call handler advised Mr Cope to call 111 for advice but he said she 'did not seem concerned'.

The family was waiting for a call back from a doctor when Dylan started shouting about his leg pain.

Mr Cope said: 'His legs had started to mottle - Corinne said it was either meningitis or sepsis. An ambulance would have taken too long - I drove him to A&E and an emergency team took over.

'He was taken to the University Hospital of Wales and after an operation he was on life support.'

The inquest heard Dylan had severe septic shock and went into cardiac arrest.

Mr Cope said: 'The doctors told us there was nothing more they should do for him, it was highly unlikely Dylan would survive.'

Life support was gradually withdrawn and Dylan died on December 14.

Dylan, the youngest of three children, was looking forward to playing a reindeer in his school Christmas play.

In a statement through their legal team his parents said: 'Dylan was very loving and inquisitive with a quirky sense of humour.

'He saw the beauty of life but also the injustice and was quick to make his views known.

'His strength of character and fierce independence balanced with his softer, endearing, sensitive side were traits that made him rather unique.

'On the day we were meant to be proudly watching Dylan in his school Christmas play dressed as a little reindeer, instead we watched him dying.

'There is no doubt that Dylan would have grown up to do some very interesting things in his life, but we have been denied the opportunity of watching our son grow into a man and experiencing the joys of life with him.

'Moreover, we are truly heartbroken for Dylan, that he will never get to experience the joys of life and the hopes and dreams he had.

'Since Dylan's death, our lives have become unrecognisable. We are filled with grief and shock that our little boy was taken so soon and in this way.

'Our hearts ache for Dylan every millisecond and everything we see and do is through his eyes. Dylan's absence is and will continue to be the undercurrent of our days until our final breath.'

Mr Cope, a web developer and his wife, a civil servant, are warning other parents of the dangers of sepsis which is more prevalent in the winter months when people are prone to viruses and infections.

They also want to raise awareness of appendicitis and the symptoms of sepsis, which is a reaction to an infection and happens when the immune system overreacts and starts to damage the body's own tissues and organs.

Symptoms can be like those of flu and include severe breathlessness and a high fever.

The couple said: 'We have been told sepsis in children is very rare, tragically we know Dylan is one of many to lose their life to this brutal killer.

'There is much good work being done to help prevent deaths from sepsis and also improve outcomes for those recovering from sepsis but still a way to go.

'We urge parents to always trust your instincts over anything else with your child, despite what you are told, if you feel something isn't right it probably isn't and be mindful that time may not be on your side.

'Trust your instincts over anything else and seek urgent help.'

The couple thanked surgeons and staff at the University Hospital of Wales for trying to see their young son.

Dylan's parents are now warning other parents of the dangers of sepsis and appendicitis

They said: 'Obviously, we want nothing more than to be in the position to say we owe Dylan's life to them but tragically, we are not. What we do owe them is our sincere thanks for doing their utmost to save him.'

The couple's campaign has led to changes in sepsis awareness and a Sepsis Trust QR code is now printed on paediatric safety sheets in GP surgeries and hospitals.

The Welsh Government is currently working with the Sepsis Trust to produce a sepsis leaflet that will be distributed across Wales.

Dr Ron Daniels, Founder and Joint CEO of UK Sepsis Trust, said: 'It's every parent's worst nightmare to lose a child and to look ahead to a lifetime of grief  Dylan reminds us that sepsis can strike any child at any time.

'The UK Sepsis Trust is on a mission to empower parents to 'just ask; could it be sepsis?' if their child is deteriorating in the context of an infection and to encourage health professionals to listen - parents know their child better than anyone.'
Yet another Republican U.S. senator has caught former President Donald Trump's eye as he searches for a ticketmate to replace former Vice President Mike Pence.

The New York Times reported Friday that Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton has jumped to the top of Trump's list.

The 47-year-old Arkansas Republican was elected to the Senate in 2014 after serving tours in Iraq and Afghanistan with the U.S. Army.

The pick of Cotton would be unexpected because it would be bland.

Cotton joins other veepstakes contenders from the upper chamber including Sens. Marco Rubio, Tim Scott and J.D. Vance.

Former President Donald Trump (right) is considering picking Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton (left) to be his running mate - a choice that would be safe and not rock the boat. Cotton is a 47-year-old Army veteran. The two were pictured together at the White House in August 2017

Former President Donald Trump throws a pen during his Thursday night rally in the Bronx. During an interview after the rally he refused to name his top three VP picks - which reportedly now includes Cotton

The presumptive Republican nominee is also considering North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, who he brought to his recent mega-rally in Wildwood, New Jersey.

Trump also discussed the five Republican men for Cabinet positions should he win a second term in November, The Times report said.

During an interview Thursday with News 12 Trump declined to name his top three VP picks.

'Well, we have so many, I don't want to do that,' the ex-president said after his rally in the Bronx.

Trump then commended Dr. Ben Carson, his former HUD secretary, Rubio, Vance and Rep. Elise Stefanik.

The ex-president said he would announce his choice 'sometime during the convention.'

The Republican National Convention is scheduled for mid-July in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton would represent a safe pick for former President Donald Trump, as he's long been considered a GOP up-and-comer. He's a veteran who's served in the U.S. Senate for nearly 10 years

Trump also has a number of former 2024 rivals at his disposal.

His chief rival, former U.N. Amb. Nikki Haley, finally said this week that she would vote for Trump in the November election.

Trump supporters interviewed by DailyMail.com in New Jersey liked the idea of the ex-president picking Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, another chief challenger.

DeSantis said months ago he wouldn't take the promotion - though more recently has started fundraising for Trump.

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy is also a favorite with the MAGA crowd - and at 38-years-old would bring youth to the ticket.

And if Trump wanted a wildcard pick he could choose the Democrat-turned-independent former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who sides with Trump on a number of issues in her new book.

Trump even left the door open to pick South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem - after she wrote in her memoir that she shot her dog and included a meeting with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un that didn't happen.
A former Indiana beauty queen has been accused of using her job as a flight attendant to move drug money from the US to Mexico for a cartel.

Glenis Zapata, 34, is charged with two counts of money laundering for allegedly transporting a total of $310,000 of cocaine profits from Chicago in 2019, per a federal indictment that reads like the plot of Jackie Brown.

Zapata, Miss Indiana Latina 2011, was one of 18 suspects arrested in the operation - which included alleged ring leader Oswaldo Espinosa, one of the Drug Enforcement Administrations most wanted fugitives.

Zapata's lawyer Michael John Petro told The Chicago Sun-Times that she has been left 'devastated' by the indictment.

'She dropped her son off at school, and they grabbed her,' he said. 'Whatever message they are trying to send her is a very strong message.'

Glenis Zapata, 34, is charged with two counts of money laundering for allegedly transporting a total of $310,000 of cocaine profits from Chicago in 2019

Among those arrested was also Zapata's sister Ilenis Zapata, 33, a bank teller in Lafayette accused of helping the cartel launder $400,000 in drug money by exchanging lower denominations of cash into larger ones.

Bank teller Georgina Banuelos, 39, was also charged in the DEA operation.

Espinosa, the alleged leader of the small-scale cartel known as the Espinosa DTO, allegedly recruited regular citizens like the Zapatas to help him move thousands of kilograms of cocaine and the profits from 2018 to 2013.

Zapata's lawyer Michael John Petro told the Chicago Sun-Times that she has been left 'devastated' by the indictment

Zapata, Miss Indiana Latina 2011, was one of 18 suspects arrested in the raid - which included alleged ring leader Oswaldo Espinosa

The cartel leader reportedly used semi-trailer trucks and both private and commercial planes to move cash from stash houses in Chicago to southern states and Mexico.

They allegedly moved the cocaine to the US inside legitimate packaged goods moved by semitrailers.

According to prosecutors, 'Glenis Zapata possessed a Known Crew Member badge and used her authority to help the traffickers move cash drug proceeds from the Midwest to the southern part of the U.S. and into Mexico, the indictment states.'

The Zapata sisters were released on Tuesday on a $20,000 bond.

The investigation that led to their arrest began when federal officials seized a private charter airplane in 2021 at the Gary-Chicago International Airport in Gary, Indiana.

According to prosecutors, 'Glenis Zapata possessed a Known Crew Member badge and used her authority to help the traffickers move cash drug proceeds'

Pictured: Jackie Brown, played by Pam Grier, was a female antagonist that smuggled money for her arms dealer boss while working as a flight attendant - a fictional story eerily similar to Zapata's

The indictment mentions eight drug trafficking operations from 2021 to 2023 and 15 cash transports from November 2019 and March 2022.

In 2011, Zapata gave an interview to the Journal and Courier after winning the Miss Indiana Latina title.

She told the outlet she was honored to win the crown and highlight the 'culture and values of the Latino community.

Zapata said: 'This, along with the organizations motto, "More than a model, a role model," is what uniquely sets us apart for great success.'
A child has died after 'falling from upper-floor flat' in south London.

Police and paramedics rushed to Hotspur Street, Kennington, this afternoon but were unable to save the youngster, whose age is not yet known.

A second person, an adult woman, was taken to hospital.

Police have launched an investigation into the latest tragedy to hit the capital.

It came as last week a five-year-old boy died when he fell from his kitchen window on the 15th storey of an east London tower block.

It is understood the Metropolitan Police are not treating the death today as suspicious but are continuing to probe the incident.

A force spokesperson said: 'Police were called at 4.23pm on Friday, May 24, to a child having fallen from the upper floor of a flat on Hotspur Street, SE11.

Police and paramedics rushed to Hotspur Street (pictured), Kennington, this afternoon but were unable to save the youngster, whose age is not yet known (File image)

Police and paramedics rushed to Hotspur Street this afternoon but were unable to save the youngster (Stock image)

'Officers attended along with LAS [London Ambulance Service]. Despite their efforts, the child was pronounced dead. The child's family have been informed.

'At this very early stage, there is nothing to indicate that the incident is suspicious, however enquires are ongoing to establish the circumstances.

'Cordons are in place at the scene.'

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We were called at 4.21pm today to reports of a person who had fallen from a building in Hotspur Street, SE11.

'We sent a number of resources to the scene including ambulance crews, paramedics in fast response cars, an advanced paramedic and an incident response officer.

'We also dispatched a trauma team from London's Air Ambulance which consisted of a paramedic and a doctor in a car.

'The first paramedic arrived in less than four minutes.

'Sadly, despite the best efforts of our crews, a child died at the scene.

'We treated a second patient and took her to hospital.'

Labour MP for Vauxhall Florence Eshalomi said: 'Very sad to hear about the sad death of a young child who fell from a block of flats earlier this afternoon in Hotspur Street, SE11. My thoughts are with his family at this sad time.'

Last week, five-year-old Aalim Ahmed landed on a railing at the bottom of the residential block in Plaistow.

Aalim's body was identified by his family and his cause of death has been listed as multiple injuries due to trauma from a 'fall from height'.

Aalim Ahmed, 5, died when he fell from his kitchen window on the 15th storey of an east London tower block (pictured), an inquest has heard

He landed on a railing at the bottom of the residential block called Jacobs House in Plaistow, London

The boy died instantly and his father discovered his body shortly before 6am on May 16, Walthamstow Coroner's Court heard.

Members of the public contacted emergency services after residents heard the man's 'distressed' cries.

Assistant coroner Ian Wade KC said he was opening a 'coronial investigation' because he is 'quite satisfied that Ahmed's death was not from natural causes'.

Abi Gbago, chief executive of the council, said: 'We are undertaking a full investigation to reach the fullest possible understanding of what happened, and will fully support any other investigations.

'Once all of the relevant facts are established and investigations are concluded, which we will do as quickly as possible, we will provide an update.'
JPMorgan Chase's decision to rollback a controversial rule that targeted conservatives was greeted with joy by Christians.

Using their WePay service, JPMorgan Chase, the largest bank in the US, de-banked various conservative individuals and nonprofit organizations.

WePay forbade merchants from using the service for anything deemed to be related to 'social risk issues.'

The bank defined a social risk issue as anything 'subject to allegation and impacts related to hate groups, systematic racism, sexual harassment and corporate culture.'

This month, the Alliance for Defending Freedom (ADF), a conservative Christian legal advocacy group, discovered that the clause had been removed from WePay's terms of service, marking a major victory for the organization.

Using their WePay service, JPMorgan Chase, the largest bank in the US, was able to de-bank various conservative individuals and nonprofit organizations

'Chase has used this policy to discriminate on the basis of viewpoint,' Jeremy Tedesco, senior counsel at the ADF, said. In March, Tedesco testified before Congress on the weaponization of federal government against Christian groups

In a statement to Fox, a JPMorgan Chase spokesperson said that the bank supports all clients, irrespective of ideologies or beliefs.

'We support clients around the globe and in every state in the U.S., across industries, religions, and political affiliations.'

However, the ADF said that JPMorgan Chase had effectively used the WePay service to target certain clients.

'Chase has used this policy to discriminate on the basis of viewpoint,' Jeremy Tedesco, senior counsel at the ADF, said.

'The policy is a risk to every single person who uses WePay and Chase, the biggest bank in America.'

Tedesco further observed that there are millions of people who face the 'threat [of] being denied or losing payment processing.'

WePay forbade merchants from using the service for anything deemed to be related to 'social risk issues.' The bank defined a social risk issue as anything 'subject to allegation and impacts related to hate groups, systematic racism, sexual harassment and corporate culture'

Daniel E. Pinto is the current president of JPMorgan Chase, which has been accused of targeting Christian groups

'It is significant that they eliminated that policy,' he said, before declaring that the bank needs to enshrine a policy 'to not discriminating against people on their religious or political views.'

In March, Tedesco testified before Congress on the weaponization of federal government against Christian groups.

'JPMorgan Chase de-banked the Arkansas family council for being high risk,' Tedesco told the members of the committee.

Then he noted that the bank had 'never provided a credible reason for canceling the account of former US Senator Samuel Brownback's organization, the National Committee for Religious Freedom.'

Missouri State Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick protested Chase's decision to withhold its services from a conservative event

Over the past few years, Chase and other influential banks have abruptly removed people from their services without offering their ex-clients so much as an explanation.

'Americans shouldn't have to fear that they can lose access to their bank accounts or payment processing because of their religious and political beliefs,' Tedesco told Fox.

'We think it's a significant that Chase took this step.'

In 2021, WePay withheld its services from a Republican event hosted by nonprofit group Defense of Liberty, which featured Donald Trump Jr.

WePay explained their decision by invoking policies against servicing events associated with 'hate, racial intolerance, or items or activities that encourage, promote, facilitate, or instruct others regarding the same.'

After Missouri State Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick decried the bank's action and threatened to reconsider the state's business relationship with Chase, the company reversed its decision.

'We think it's a significant that Chase took this step,' Tedesco said of Chase's decision to change the language of its WePay policy

JPMorgan Chase later conceded that the event did not 'violate the terms of service.'

To make sure that private companies adhere to the tenets of freedom of speech, the ADF has created a Business Index that evaluates companies based on their compliance with their own policies.

According to the ADF, more than 90 percent of the companies in the index depend 'on divisive concepts like Critical Race Theory in its employee training materials.'

Forty percent of employees polled in the 2023 Freedom at Work Survey claimed that this policy tends to divide and not unite colleagues.
A London priest told last night how Carlo Acutis' mother held up to 700 churchgoers mesmerised with an 'electric' speech about her son's message of love.

Father Dominic Robinson predicted that London-born Carlo, who died in 2006 aged 15, will become a 'saint for the millennials' by drawing in a new generation of young believers.

The parish priest of Farm Street Church of the Immaculate Conception in Mayfair, central London, heard Carlo's mother Antonia Salzano address his congregation last summer.

He said it was standing-room only as she told how he was an ordinary teenager who lived to spread kindness by helping others.

'It was standing room only,' he said. 'There were a lot of a lot of young people in their 20s and younger.

'The atmosphere was really electric. You really got a sense of people being brought to faith and spirituality, with a commitment to something really tangible through the life of this young man.'

Carlo (pictured) was a devout Christian when he was alive and attended daily mass

Carlo's mother Antonia Salzano (pictured) refers to her late son as her 'savior' as Carlo taught her more and more about his faith and credits him with her conversion into Christianity

Carlo (pictured) was raised by first an Irish nanny then a Polish one. They claim he was inspired in part by St Francis of Assisi, who was born in the same town Carlo was laid to rest

Cardinal Agostino Vallini, center, in the St. Francis Basilica, in Assisi, Italy during Carlo's beatification ceremony, one of the steps towards sainthood

'It was the Millennial generation of committed Catholics, who also brought their friends because they were really inspired by the life of this young man from the millennial generation,' Father Robinson said.

'He stood for something which was completely against the culture and yet, was very much part of the culture.

'As we heard during the evening from his mother, he was computer savvy, he spent a lot of time online.'

Father Robinson added that the congregation were touched by the fact that Carlo was as vulnerable as them and born in the city where they lived.

'Carlo was bullied at school I believe, he was born and baptised in central London.

'There's definitely something about being local - somebody you know, somebody who's grown up in the same place as you, been to school in the same place.'

But he said that even when the saint-to-be was alive, those around him felt that his life would serve a much greater purpose.

'When he became ill, there was this strong sense that this life wasn't the only thing that was important. There was a dimension which was beyond.

'He was committed very much to the Catholic faith - adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, prayer and worship.

'At the same time, he did a lot of volunteering and worked with the homeless.- so he put his faith into action. He was kind towards others.

'He stood for authenticity and integrity and looking out for the weakest as well.

'So there was a sense in which he really did know Jesus as his brother, as his friend, as the one whom he worshipped.

'Also the one who gives us a blueprint for living, which is counter to many of the values of society.'

Father Robinson added: 'There's much talk of Christianity and organised religion being in decline.

'But there are green shots and signs of real enthusiasm among young people. They are looking for something which is counter to the ethic of wealth creation and careerism.'

Carlo (pictured) would be only the second Briton to become canonised in nearly 50 years, after Cardinal John Henry Newman was made a Saint last year

Carlo (pictured as a baby) was also an incredibly smart young boy, speaking his first word at three months, starting talking at five months, and writing at age four

Carlo also helped the homeless and stood up for bullied classmates at school. Pictured: Young Carlo with his dog at Christmas

Carlo Acutis pictured smiling at the camera while sporting an AC Milan home kit from the 1990s

Almost 20 years after Carlo's death, Pope Francis has recognised a miracle attributed to Carlo - after he passed away - where the mother of a Costa Rican woman involved in a serious bike accident prayed at his glass casket and left a note asking for her to be healed in 2022.

What are the five steps to becoming a saint? Five-year wait: Five years usually needs to have passed after someone's death for the process to begin. This allows for a period of reflection on the case. Servant of God: The bishop of the diocese where the person has died investigates whether their life was holy enough to be deemed a 'servant of God'. Life of heroic virtue: The Congregation for the Causes of Saints looks at the case. If they approve it is passed onto the Pope, who declares the subject a person of 'heroic virtue'. Beatification: A miracle needs to happen to a person who has prayed to the person in question. Canonisation: A second miracle is attributed to the person who has been beatified. Advertisement

The same day her daughter began to breathe independently and 10 days later she was discharged from intensive care because the haemorrhage in her brain had completely disappeared.

Pope Francis has now signed a decree which paves the way for Acutis becoming a saint because the Vatican says Carlo also interceded from heaven in 2013 to cure a Brazilian boy suffering from a rare pancreatic disease.

When Carlo died shortly after being diagnosed with leukaemia, he told his parents: 'I'm happy to die because I've lived my life without wasting even a minute of it doing things that wouldn't have pleased God.'

Carlo died in Monza, Italy after moving to Milan as a child but was born in London to mother Antonia Salzano and father Andrea Acutis.

His mother said that her son dedicated himself to supporting classmates struggling with life, would defend disabled friends who were being bullied and would take meals out to homeless people across the city.

Since his death, Carlo has garnered a global following, and his body was moved to the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, Assisi where it is currently on display.

He has been given the nicknames of 'God's influencer' and 'the patron saint of the internet' because of his devotion to promoting Christ's work online before he died.
A former cop has been arrested for the murder of an 86-year-old retired police chief in Brazil

Rodrigo Costa, 52, allegedly disguised himself as a delivery man and attacked Hudson Maldonado inside his home and set him on fire on Wednesday, authorities in the southeastern state of Sete Lagoas revealed.

Costa walked into a police station Friday morning and turned himself in.

Authorities are investigating whether Costa sought out revenge for being fired from the Minas Gerais Civil Police in 2006 for extorting a woman.

Rodrigo Costa turned himself in police in the southeastern Brazilian city of Sete Lagoas on Friday, just two days after he allegedly broke into the home of Hudson Maldonado, the former Minas Gerais Civil Police chief, and burned him alive over an alleged feud after he was fired from the force in 2006

Hudson Maldonado was a retired police chief and a lawyer in the southeastern Brazil state of Minas Gerais

As a lawyer, Maldonado was involved in the internal affairs' investigation at the time.

Costa allegedly rang the intercom at the residential complex's gate and identified himself as a delivery man for a pharmacy.

Authorities said the ex-cop threatened Maldonado's caregiver with a knife and told her that he had 'dispute for 18 years' with Maldonado and proceeded to his apartment.

Costa then allegedly broke into Maldonado's residence, where he had been confined for the last six months while recovering from a stroke.

He allegedly stabbed him and wrapped the body with a mattress before he poured a gallon of gasoline and burned him alive.

Security cameras picked up Rodrigo Costa at the apartment complex on Wednesday. He turned himself in the police Friday and is waiting to be arraigned on one count of murder

Former cop Rodrigo Costa said he was only trying to hurt retired police chief Hudson Maldonado when he broke into his home on Wednesday. He allegedly stabbed him and then doused him with gasoline before he set him on fire

Costa told police investigators that he waited 18 years to carry out his revenge because the Supreme Court had ratified the police department's decision.

But cops said he admitted he only wanted to hurt Maldonado, not kill him.

'He wanted to present himself and is willing to answer for the entire procedure,' homicide department chief Fernanda de Assis said. 'He also stated that he had no intention of killing and that he regretted the crime.'

Costa is facing one count of murder and is facing 12 years in prison if he is convicted.

It is unclear if Costa has entered a different plea despite his earlier admission.
Justin Welby has been dubbed the 'Archbishop of Airmiles' and accused of hypocrisy for flying around the world while pressuring congregations to achieve net zero.

The Archbishop of Canterbury will be travelling to Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama and Costa Rica later this month having only just returned from Zanzibar.

Church of England officials and parishioners said their leader had almost become a 'member of the Foreign Office', jetting to global hot spots and summits while seemingly ignoring problems at home.

Analysis by the Daily Mail found that by next month Dr Welby will have travelled at least 48,000 miles on ten trips since last September on a worldwide tour.

The flights alone would have added at least 15 tons of carbon dioxide emissions to his carbon footprint.

Could The Archbishop of Airmiles become Justin Welby's new unofficial title?

This break down shows the far flung destinations Welby flew to since September 2023, how many miles he covered, and the resulting carbon emissions

But the true figure is likely to be higher, with the inclusion of Dr Welby's travelling entourage.

His trips have enraged parishioners and officials who pointed out its incompatibility with the Church of England's Net Zero strategy.

The Church has heaped pressure on congregations by bringing the deadline of its carbon neutrality goal forward from 2045 to 2030.

Parishes have been urged to remove gas and oil boilers in favour of heat pumps and solar panels as the church seeks to divest itself of fossil fuels.

A senior church official said: 'It seems quite extraordinary that the Archbishop chooses to spend so much time away when there is so much going wrong at home.

'His own diocese is showing a catastrophic fall in numbers attending  the worst figures for young people of any diocese  yet he is too busy to attend to it.'

But a source close to Lambeth Palace responded: 'Nobody wants a global church leader just sitting behind a desk at Lambeth Palace pushing paper around  the whole point of the job is... being with people.'

However, Reverend Marcus Walker, chairman of the Save our Parish Network, said: 'If we are making compromises on the Archbishop's air travel, perhaps we should compromise for parishes struggling to replace their boilers?

Welby is no stranger to international travel. He flew nearly 7000 miles for a trip to New York City in September 2023

The Archbishop travelled nearly 2000 miles in February to speak at the opening of the 100th Diocesan Synod in Lisbon, Portugal.

Just this month, the Archbishop went to the Vatican in Rome to meet Pope Francis.

'The Armenia visit [October 2023] was good as it was to support Christians who were being oppressed.

'But is he acting as the head of an NGO [non-governmental organisation] or is he the head of the Church?'

Some officials were angered by the Archbishop's recent trip to Zanzibar where they accused him of misunderstanding Britain's role in ending the transatlantic slave trade.

Dr Welby said at the time the 'consequences of the evil of slavery are beyond comprehension' and that 'we must honestly face our past'.

Other foreign trips Dr Welby has undertaken include two trips to the Middle East following the outbreak of war between Hamas and Israel, a trip to New York, two to Rome, and a tour of the Caucuses.

General Synod member Professor Roy Faulkner said: 'Welby almost sees himself as a member of the Foreign Office and spends a lot of time doing foreign trips.

'That is not doing his main job. I would agree he's the Archbishop of Airmiles.'

But Lambeth Palace last night robustly defended the Archbishop's travel, insisting: 'fighting climate change here and supporting Christians around the world are not incompatible'.

They explained Dr Welby flew economy class 'unless on a long-haul flight', adding: 'He has visited Christians in Gaza, the West Bank, Pakistan, the DRC and many other places of great suffering.

'It's the Archbishop's duty to visit Anglicans around the world living in such places. We reject any suggestion he should not be doing this.'

After the church moved its net zero target forward to 2030, bishops complained that the move would put an 'enormous burden' on stretched parishes.

Church coffers have been hit by falling congregation numbers lately. It also announced a 100million slavery reparations fund last year, with a recent report calling for the pot to be hiked to 1billion.

Churches have also been forced to look for controversial ways of generating income  with a 'Rave in the Nave' held inside Canterbury Cathedral in February.
A daycare teacher has been arrested in connection with reports of alleged child abuse at a Las Vegas daycare.

Eryka Westover, 33, was taken into custody on May 17 and charged with child abuse and neglect at the learning institute Shenker Academy, where she was a lead teacher.

In footage obtained by Fox 5, Westover appears to yell into a tightly-swaddled child's face before slamming the three-year-old into a cot face down.

Westover then leans in and can be heard saying, 'I just body-slammed you. You're fine. Go to bed,' according to the video.

Police reports state, Westover employed various restrictive techniques on the toddler, including physically holding her so she could not get up, using her body to prevent her from moving, and swaddling her excessively tight.

Eryka Westover, 33, was arrested May 17 and charged with child abuse and neglect at the learning institute Shenker Academy, where she was a lead teacher

In footage obtained, Westover is seen yelling into a tightly-swaddled child's face before slamming the three-year-old into a cot face down

The restricted position disabled the child's movement to the point where she couldn't move her arms or legs, allegedly because Westover reportedly had difficulty putting the child to sleep.

It should be noted the practice of swaddling is not an approved technique at the school as Shenker Academy emphasizes the 'Love and Logic' approach when children are to be disciplined, per the police report.

Local CBS affiliate KLAS reported that the video was taken by a teaching assistant who later provided the footage to the child's parents.

The parents claim the suspect 'had been slapping, hitting, and pinching children.'

One student attending the school had a speech delay. Her parent said she began saying unusual phrases, such as 'don't touch me,' 'don't hit me,' and 'deave me alone.' She also said that the suspect would pinch her for being a 'bad listener.'

In a letter to the school board, parents expressed concern about Westover's interactions with the children, describing them as 'outwardly aggressive' and 'inappropriate'.

The letter went on to say that many children had become so apprehensive that they 'repeatedly begged' to stay home from school.

It also raised additional concerns about disciplinary practices, alleging that children as young as three and four were forced to run laps for 'exhibiting completely age-appropriate behavior.'

Westover leans in and can be heard saying, 'I just body-slammed you. You're fine. Go to bed.'

Elisa Valdez (pictured), the mother of the three-year-old in that video, said she is appalled by the way the school has handled the situation.

The letter documented observations of bruises, welts, cuts, and abrasions on students at the school.

Westover reportedly blamed the children's 'difficult' behavior on the fact they were born during the pandemic, and did not learn and develop properly.

She also said she 'has not had any problems with the school or with students and parents'.

Elisa Valdez, the mother of the three-year-old in that video, said she is appalled by the way the school has handled the situation.

She said the heard of the school did not apologize to her for the incident and did not show signs of remorse.

'He basically said she didn't really do anything,' Valdez told Fox 5. 'I mean I don't know how anybody can watch the video and say that and think that nothing happened, like there was no abuse. But's that how he made it appear'
It takes real skill at this delicate moment in history to offend die-hard supporters of both Israel and Palestine. But then, the man who would be Britain's next Foreign Secretary has a gift for upsetting people.

During a single 24-hour period a few days back, David Lammy also managed to fall out with the Biden White House, several of London's leading diplomats and a senior colleague in Labour's ministerial ranks, who dubbed him a 'loose cannon'.

The reverse charm offensive, from a politician bidding to become our diplomat-in-chief, could hardly have come at a worse time for His Majesty's Opposition.

We are, after all, at the start of a General Election campaign that is likely to hinge on questions of competence and readiness for Government.

Little wonder that former Labour MP Tom Harris, who served as a junior minister alongside Lammy in the Noughties, responded to his burst of 'diplomacy' by declaring him 'entirely unfit to hold one of the great offices of state' in an article headlined: 'Starmer is running out of time to rid Labour of David Lammy.'

It's not as if Sir Keir hasn't been warned, either.

For in the more recent years of his two decades in politics, the MP for Tottenham has been responsible for more gaffes, U-turns, and petty fights on social media than almost any other Parliamentarian.

They are not, to put things mildly, character traits that make for an effective leader of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Yet we may now be just half a dozen weeks from the 51-year-old controversialist becoming the standard-bearer of Global Britain.

How will that go? The events of this week offer a somewhat chilling insight.

First, Lammy chose to wade into a heated diplomatic row by appearing to endorse a bid to prosecute Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged 'war crimes'.

The Labour frontbencher declared that 'international law must be upheld' after the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court called for an arrest warrant to be issued.

David Lammy (right) pictured with Ed Miliband (left) and Sir Keir Starmer (centre). In the more recent years of his two decades in politics, the MP for Tottenham has been responsible for more gaffes, U-turns, and petty fights on social media than almost any other Parliamentarian, write Guy Adams and Andrew Pierce

That placed him entirely at odds with the policy that Britain's diplomatic establishment has been delicately pursuing for months. It also caused huge consternation in Washington, where President Joe Biden, the leader of our greatest strategic ally, dubbed the ICC's move 'outrageous'.

On the political front, it also drew unwelcome attention to Labour's remarkably close links to many members of Doughty Street Chambers, a 'co-operative of radical Left-wing barristers' as the Times Literary Supplement recently put it, which Sir Keir Starmer helped found and where Lammy was recently appointed 'associate tenant'.

The chambers saw three of its lawyers instructed to sit on the ICC panel (of six) that recommended issuing the arrest warrant. One was Baroness Helena Kennedy, a Labour Peer, another Amal 'wife of George' Clooney.

We digress. The day after this kerfuffle, Lammy was once more at the centre of controversy, after he delivered a speech at Chatham House declaring that Labour will recognise Palestine as a state, if the Party achieves power.

Similar recent moves by the governments of Ireland, Norway and Spain have prompted Israel to withdraw its ambassadors, on the grounds that it will not pursue friendly relations with countries that want to reward Hamas for 'the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust'.

Will a Starmer election victory kick off with Foreign Secretary Lammy sparking a similar diplomatic crisis in the UK? One that causes a deep rift with not only Israel but also the USA?

That's what one senior British diplomat now fears.

'Biden's White House took a very dim view of Lammy's remarks,' he told the Mail this week.'

These things are noticed. The remarks will be viewed with even more alarm if he was in fact testing the water on Palestine for the Labour leadership.'

Ironically, Lammy is also facing incoming from the anti-Israel lobby, whose protesters decided to picket a speech he gave at the Institute for Public Policy Research this week.

Hecklers disrupted proceedings for ten minutes, accusing the MP of having taken 'shady money' from the 'pro-Israel lobby' on the grounds that he once lawfully accepted 30,000 from a Zionist lobbyist named Trevor Chinn.

The fact that both sides in the Gaza debate have been upset by the shadow foreign secretary is not lost on senior Labour colleagues. They have been advocating a policy of sidestepping the issue of Gaza for now, so as not to alienate either Muslim voters or supporters in the Jewish community.

'Lammy's timing could not be worse,' said the senior ministerial colleague. 'On the eve of the General Election, he decides to wade, feet first as usual, into the Palestine controversy while war is raging in Gaza,' said the source.

'The last thing we want is to draw attention to the splits in our ranks on a ceasefire. But Lammy has always tended to speak before he thinks.'

That much is certainly true. Especially on social media, where his habit of making enemies could soon cause severe damage to Britain's ability to make friends and influence people.

Take, for example, the question of how a Starmer administration would get on with the White House in the event  now more than 50 per cent likely, according to bookmakers  that Donald Trump becomes President in six months.

Back in 2017, Lammy launched a series of extraordinarily hostile attacks on him, using Twitter to declare: 'If Trump comes to the UK I will be out protesting on the streets. He is a racist KKK and Nazi sympathiser.'

He then wrote a piece for Time magazine that alleged: 'Trump is not only a woman-hating, neo-Nazi-sympathising sociopath. He is a profound threat to the international order.'

These are not, to put it mildly, remarks that a future Foreign Secretary ought to have in his back catalogue. But Lammy has a longstanding habit of suggesting that people he disagrees with are racists who are inspired by Hitler.

Following the Brexit referendum, he suggested that members of the Tory Party's Leave-supporting European Research Group were similar to Nazis, prompting the broadcaster Andrew Marr to challenge him and say that comparing voting to leave the EU to murdering six million jews 'was an unacceptable comparison, wasn't it?'

Lammy responded: 'I would say that wasn't strong enough.'

Supporters of Youth Demand and Stop Polluting Politics hold up a banner at a speech made by Lammy on May 21. Lammy chose to wade into a heated diplomatic row by appearing to endorse a bid to prosecute Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged 'war crimes'

In 2019, meanwhile, he launched into an unprompted attack on Comic Relief for having the temerity to send celebrity journalist Stacey Dooley to Uganda.

'The world does not need any more white saviours,' Lammy wrote on Twitter. 'As I've said before, this just perpetuates tired and unhelpful stereotypes.'

Dooley replied: 'David, is the issue with me being white? (Genuine question) . . . because if that's the case, you could always go over there and try raise awareness?'

Lammy is, of course, entitled to a personal view about the rights and wrongs of Comic Relief.

But these remarks do not sit easily with his potential role in charge of the Government Department responsible for delivering overseas aid.

Another broadcasting institution he's levelled an allegation of racism at is the BBC.

This one was utterly unhinged. It took place during the 2013 papal conclave, when the Catholic Church's cardinals met to choose a new Pope, and a BBC news item picturing the temporary chimney erected over the Sistine Chapel carried the caption: 'Will smoke be black or white?'

It was a reference to the fact that the colour of smoke has, for centuries, been used by the Vatican to show whether a new Pontiff has been selected (white for yes; black for no). Lammy, who appeared blissfully unaware of this fact, took umbrage by declaring on social media: 'This tweet from the BBC is crass and unnecessary. Do we really need silly innuendo about the race of the next Pope?'

When users attempted to correct him, Lammy then doubled down: 'It's the juxtaposition of black and white. But maybe I'm just weary of the endless discussion of race.'

It wasn't until an hour later that he realised that he'd made a schoolboy error: 'Sorry folks . . . my mistake. . . I got it badly wrong!'

Other times he 'got it badly wrong' on Twitter included an occasion in 2022 when he scoffed at the idea that Boris Johnson shouldn't resign as Britain's Prime Minister because the war in Ukraine had recently broken out.

'Churchill replaced Chamberlain just days before the Second World War, Lloyd George replaced Asquith weeks into the Somme, Eden lost his job during the Suez crisis,' he wrote. All three of those so-called historical facts were, in fact, incorrect.

Then there was the occasion in 2015 when he tweeted about the Tory Party's austerity-era efforts to reform the welfare system. 'When I was growing up, my mum relied on tax credits,' Lammy wrote. 'Tonight in opposing the Welfare Bill, I voted for millions of people who do the same.'

Eagle-eyed readers promptly responded that tax credits hadn't been introduced until 2003, when Lammy was aged 31.

After an awkward pause, he claimed to have confused tax credits with income support, adding: 'I grew up in a very poor family, with five kids in Tottenham [North London].'

That much is certainly true.

The son of Guyanese immigrants, whose alcoholic father left the family home when he was a small child, Lammy escaped poverty via what he once described as a 'Billy Elliot moment', winning a choral scholarship to a state boarding school in Peterborough. He then attended the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) before becoming the first black Briton to gain a place at Harvard Law School.

Lammy then enjoyed a few years as a barrister, along with spells at law firms in London and California, during which he earned enough to buy his first home, a three-bed house in Tottenham.

He still keeps it as a rental property, living with artist wife Nicola Green and their three children in a second, smarter, home in nearby Finsbury Park. His legal career was, however, cut short by politics. In 2000, aged just 27, he entered Parliament at a by-election following the death of Labour MP Bernie Grant.

While initially tipped for super-stardom, drawing comparisons with Barack Obama, his performance in a series of junior ministerial posts was regarded as mildly disappointing, meaning he failed to gain promotion to the Cabinet during the Blair and Brown eras.

On a more frivolous note, Lammy also suffered a blow to his intellectual credibility in 2009 during an appearance on Celebrity Mastermind when he claimed, among other things, that the Nobel Prize winner for Physics in 1903 was Marie Antoinette having been given 'Marie' as a clue (it was Marie Curie), that the large prison in the middle of Paris was called 'Versailles' (The Bastille), and that Henry VII had succeeded Henry VIII.

Perhaps more worryingly, given his current job, Lammy also told the quizmaster that the so-called Rose Revolution of 2003, which took place in Georgia, had actually occurred in 'Yugoslavia', a country which effectively ceased to exist in 1992.

After Labour's election defeat the following year, he was a candidate for the shadow cabinet, but failed to win enough votes from fellow MPs to be elected. There followed a decade on the back benches, where he supplemented his MP's income via speaking engagements, an occupation he continues to this day.

Last Autumn, for example, he took three corporate engagements that involved talking about Black History Month, at 5,100 each.

He has also enjoyed a three-year stint hosting a weekly chat show on LBC, for a fee of almost 1,000 a time. To the annoyance of many colleagues, that has given him an extravagant entry in the Register of Interests of MPs.

'For years, we've been wanting to attack the Tories with their fat-cat second jobs but they threw money-bags Lammy back in our faces every time,' says one colleague.

Following his shock elevation to the shadow Cabinet after Keir Starmer became leader, Lammy's historic opposition to Britain's role in NATO was also identified as a potential cause of embarrassment. For back in 2016, he made an impassioned Commons speech opposing nuclear weapons.

'As a Christian . . . the idea of loving thy neighbour and protecting our world for future generations simply cannot hold if we have stockpiles of [nuclear] weapons,' he said, adding: 'I cannot with a clear conscience vote for what is effectively a blank cheque for nuclear weapons.' He then denounced the Trident weapons as 'completely useless as a deterrent'.

Amazingly, Lammy's Christian principles have now shifted significantly. Last year, he wrote a joint article for the Daily Telegraph with Labour's defence spokesman Jon Healey claming that he was 'proud' that nuclear safeguards were 'our party's heritage' and alleging 'my commitment to Nato and the UK's nuclear deterrent is unshakeable'.

If you'll believe that, you'll believe anything. And if you believe anything you may perhaps believe that David Lammy is ideally suited for one of the three great offices of state.

Only last week, he was looking forward to that prospect during a fawning interview with the largely anti-British and Left-leaning New York Times.

'If I have the privilege of becoming foreign minister,' he said, 'I'm very conscious that I'll be the first  it almost makes me emotional as I say it  the first foreign secretary who is the descendant of enslaved people.'

It would be a truly creditable achievement. Were it not for the existence of the former Tory foreign secretary James Cleverly whose mother happens to be from Sierra Leone, a country that was founded by freed slaves whose capital city is named Freetown as a result.

Any self-respecting expert on foreign affairs should really know this.

But  as Keir Starmer may soon find out, to his cost  David Lammy has never been one for getting his facts right.
President rejects DPK head's proposal for talks on pensions

By Nam Hyun-woo

Reforming Koreas pension system reemerged as a political hot potato after the head of the majority-holding main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) abruptly urged the 21st National Assembly to pass a reform plan within its current term, which will end on Wednesday.

Rep. Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the DPK, called for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss the issue and reach an agreement regarding the differences between the reform plans of the two main parties. In response. the presidential office said the 22nd Assembly should address the issue, essentially refusing the request for the meeting.

Pension reform has been one of Yoon's pledges as the countrys national pension fund is feared to deplete sooner than expected. But the DPK and the ruling People Power Party (PPP) have been butting heads over the desirable premium rate and income replacement rate.

The income replacement rate is a percentage indicating how much of a workers pre-retirement income is replaced by the amount of money the worker gets paid after retirement. For example, if a worker earned an average of $1,000 per month before retirement, a 45 percent replacement rate means that the worker will be paid $450 per month after retirement.

After several rounds of negotiations, Korea's two main rival parties agreed on a 13 percent premium rate, but failed to narrow their differences on the income replacement rate, as the PPP backed a 43 percent rate while the DPK persisted with a 45 percent rate.

During a press conference on May 9, Yoon said it would be difficult for the current Assembly to reach an agreement and that discussions will need to continue in the upcoming 22nd Assembly.

However, the debate reemerged after the DPK chairman on Thursday abruptly proposed an official meeting with the president on the issue, saying the government has also proposed a 45 percent replacement rate, which matches the DPKs proposal.

He also said during a party meeting, Friday, Whether the president would meet the heads of rival parties or have a one-on-one discussion with me, pension reform must be addressed by any means.

Lee continued that Rep. Yoo Gyeong-joon, head of the PPP's pension reform committee, officially proposed a 44 percent rate, so there is only a 1 percentage point difference between the two main parties' proposals.

However, the ruling party flatly refuted Lees claims.

The 13 percent premium rate and 45 percent income replacement are numbers that the DPK desires, not the plan of the government nor the PPP, PPP floor leader Rep. Choo Kyung-ho said during a party meeting, Friday.

PPP spokesperson Rep. Jang Dong-hyeok also said, Theres only a few days left for the 21st Assembly. It is impossible to arrange a meeting between Yoon and Lee, make an agreement between rival parties, and hold a special committee and a plenary session within that period.

While the DPK is saying Lees remarks were not coordinated with the rest of the party leadership, the PPP suspects that Lee is abruptly pushing for pension reform merely for the political purpose of styling himself as making a compromise on behalf of the people.

Stop the hypocrisy of pretending to serve the public by using an issue that was not even agreed upon by both parties, Choo said.

PPP Rep. Jeong Jeom-sig also said, Lees reference to an official meeting with the president is a display of his intent to manipulate public sentiment in favor of them, not to reform pensions.

Political analysts also view that Lee has nothing to lose by proposing the issue of pension reform because Yoons refusal to meet will provide a pretext for the DPK to blame him, whereas any progress in pension reform talks between the two main parties would mainly benefit Lee.

Lees chief of staff, Rep. Cheon Jun-ho, told reporters Friday that the presidential office made a de facto rejection of Lees proposal for a meeting on pensions by saying it is inappropriate for the president to talk before the main rival parties reach an agreement.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will transfer power to his deputy as he goes under the knife at Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday night.

The 70-year-old Pentagon chief will undergo a medical procedure for bladder issues and will be 'unable to perform his functions'.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks will therefore take over temporarily and act as Secretary of Defense.

The Pentagon said the operation was not related to his battle with cancer, which was the center of controversy earlier this year when didn't disclose his treatment to the White House.

The procedure 'has had no effect on his exrcellent cancer prognosis,' Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said in a statement.

He was dragged in front of Congress and admitted he had made a mistake by not informing the public, the media or his second in command that he was going into hospital.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will transfer power to his deputy as he goes under the knife at Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday night

The White House said in January President Biden had 'complete confidence' in Austin and he continued to perform his duties.

The news came on a day when Austin got to take part in a milestone for midshipmen, addressing a graduating ceremony at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.

He told them they would be leading future sailors and Marines 'through tension and uncertainty,' at a time when U.S. forces are protecting key waterways in the Red Sea amid war and tensions in the Middle East.

The Navy has stationed multiple ships in the Red Sea since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7, which has heightened tensions in the region. The secretary said the two ensigns, who only just graduated last year, were aboard the Navy destroyer and 'helped defend the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.'

Austin used a cain after his hospitalization. He was at the White House Thursday and delivered a speech at the Naval Academy Friday

'They helped those in distress at sea,' Austin said. 'They helped degrade the capabilities of the Iranian-backed Houthi militia.'

Austin delivered the speech for the second year running.

'Im just happy that you were so eager to bring back an old West Point guy,' said Austin, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy. 'And for anyone who thinks that the second installment cant be as good as the first - hey, just think of 'Top Gun: Maverick.'

On Thursday, Austin attended an arrival ceremony for Kenyan President William Ruto.
Police have arrested a 75-year-old man in connection with the death of a dog walker who was shot dead on a rural track.

The body of retired Brian Low, 65, was discovered close to his home on the outskirts of Aberfeldy, Perthshire, on February 17.

He had been walking his black labrador and police initially thought his death was 'medical or non-suspicious'.

A post-mortem examination six days after his body was found established that Mr Low had suffered 'injuries consistent with being fatally shot'.

Police faced criticism after reclassifying the death as potentially suspicious and belatedly erecting a cordon around the crime scene.

The body of dog walker Brian Low, above was found on a countryside track

A Police Scotland vehicle at the site where the body of Brian Low from Aberfeldy was found on Saturday 17th February 2024

Detectives were further condemned for waiting a further four days before sharing news of the shooting with the public.

Yesterday Police Scotland confirmed a 75-year-old man had been arrested in connection with Mr Low's death and was being questioned by detectives from the major investigation team.

The force said it was unable to provide any further comment as the investigation is ongoing.

Mr Low had worked on the same sporting estate for more than 20 years until his retirement in February last year.

He moved with his partner to a modest bungalow at Pitilie, a hamlet close to the track where he was killed three days before his 66th birthday while walking his dog Millie.

Although he was at first thought to have died of natural causes, Mr Low's death certificate confirmed he died of a shotgun wound to the neck and chest.

Pictured: Forensics teams scour the remote footpath where Mr Low was found)

News of the killing  the first recorded in the area for more than 75 years  prompted widespread shock in the community. Postman Jedd Burke, who delivered mail to Mr Low, said: 'He was one of the nicest guys I ever met.

He was brilliant. I couldn't believe it when I heard the news.'

During the subsequent three-month investigation, known as Operation Newlane, police visited 478 properties and interviewed more than 800 people, while more than 2,000 hours of CCTV footage from dozens of cameras have been viewed.

On March 9, three weeks after the killing, police carried out spot checks in the area, stopping 118 vehicles and 18 pedestrians in the space of two hours.

The questioning was carried out on the remote track where Mr Low was found, in Aberfeldy centre and on the A827 north of the town.

Speaking in late February, Chief Inspector Greg Burns, the local area commander, said: 'I understand this is an extremely concerning incident for a small, rural community.'

Police and forensics are examining the remote footpath where the body was found

A police cordon in place at the remote footpath where the body was found

Shortly after the murder investigation was launched, Detective Chief Inspector Martin Macdougall, of the major investigation team, said: 'We have been carrying out extensive inquiries since Brian's death and detectives are working alongside uniformed officers to establish the full circumstances.'

The Police Investigation and Review Commissioner has confirmed an investigation is under way after criticism of the way the scene was handled.

A spokesman previously said the watchdog was directed by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

Mr Low had spent the past two decades working on the 4,000-acre Edradynate Estate, owned by property developer and financier Michael Campbell.
Sir Keir Starmer has vowed there will be absolutely no deal under any circumstances with the SNP in the event of a hung parliament.

Launching Scottish Labours General Election campaign, he accused the Nationalists of having lost any sense of ambition, claiming their only interest after the vote on July 4 was to sit on the opposition benches and protest.

The Labour leader pledged to make Scotland central to the mission of a Labour government as he addressed supporters at an event in Glasgows Gorbals on the second full days of campaigning.

Sir Keir told reporters there would be absolutely no deal with the SNP going into the election and no deal on the other side of the election under any circumstances, insisting there is no way an incoming Labour government could work in any way with the SNP, whose only ambition is to break up the United Kingdom.

Referring to the Nationalists under John Swinney wanting to use the election to send a message to Westminster, he said: Send a message?

Sir Keir on the campaign trail as he makes a speech in front of supporters in Glasgow yesterday

That is the height of the SNP ambition  to send a message, a protest, in Westminster. I dont want Scotland to send a message, I want Scotland to send a government, a Labour government.

A Labour government that can stop the chaos and division, that can turn the page and rebuild Scotland and Britain.

We need that change. There is no change without Scotland, there is no Labour without Scotland. Scotland is central to the mission of the next Labour government.

Joined on stage by Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar and his deputy Jackie Baillie, he was surrounded by a boisterous crowd of MPs, MSPs, prospective parliamentary candidates and party workers waving placards bearing the single word Change.

But while Sir Keirs speech was long on sentiment, it was short on specifics.

He later declined to say how many seats he expects his party to win in Scotland.

Labour won just one seat in Scotland at the last general election and has since doubled that with victory in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election last year. Ahead in the opinion polls, the party could potentially win 35 seats in Scotland.

Sir Keir said: Having strong Labour representation from Scotland sitting on the Government benches matters to me in terms of the way I want to govern  which is for Scotland and with Scotland.

He pledged to stabilise the countrys economy, protect workers and create tens of thousands of jobs by basing a new publicly-owned power company, called GB Energy, north of the Border.

Mr Sarwar added: Every vote for Scottish Labour is a vote to get rid of the Tories, a vote to maximise Scotlands influence and a vote to deliver the change Scotland needs.

Scottish Conservative Chairman Craig Hoy MSP said pro-UK voters wont be fooled by Sir Keirs pledge not to do deals with the SNP.

He said: They will remember Anas Sarwar ruling out deals with the Nationalists during the last council elections, only to then help prop them up in Dumfries and Galloway.

Labour have proven time and again they are too weak to stand up to the SNP.

They helped pass Humza Yousafs Hate Crime Act and Nicola Sturgeons deeply unpopular gender reforms.

In key seats across Scotland, it is only the Scottish Conservatives who can beat the SNP.
Voters will not forgive or forget John Swinneys shameful defence of disgraced iPad bill minister Michael Matheson, the Scots Tories have said.

Party leader Douglas Ross said SNP candidates had been left in a dreadful position over the issue.

Mr Matheson was forced to quit as health secretary after it emerged he had tried to charge a near 11,000 data roaming bill racked up during a family holiday to Morocco to taxpayers.

Holyroods standards committee recommended a 10,936 salary fine and a 27-day suspension for Mr Matheson, after he was found guilty of multiple breaches of parliamentary rules.

But the First Minister, backed by his deputy Kate Forbes yesterday, claimed the process was prejudiced and he will not support the sanctions imposed.

Disgraced iPad bill minister Michael Matheson breached the rules

Campaigning in the North East alongside his partys Gordon and Buchan candidate, Harriet Cross, Mr Ross said: The SNP must sack Michael Matheson from the party and U-turn on their pathetic attempt to overturn the sanctions he faces for misusing taxpayers money and lying to the press, public and Scottish parliament.

John Swinneys shameful defence of this disgraced former health secretary has left his Nationalist candidates in a dreadful position.

Voters will not forgive or forget both the First Minister, and now his deputy Kate Forbes, wholeheartedly backing an MSP who has behaved so shamefully.

It shows that both will always put party interests before doing the right thing.

Mr Ross also said his partys candidates will be sending a letter to their SNP rivals, asking them to put on record their stance on Mr Mathesons actions and punishment.

He added: The SNP are already on the back foot but we wont get complacent. Theyre down, but we wont stop until we get them out.

If voters in key seats back the Scottish Conservatives, we can do it.

Ms Forbes yesterday said she was fully behind the First Ministers stance adding: Michael Matheson is a close colleague.

John Swinney has set out why he believes the process is prejudiced.

I think it is plain to see those issues and I think if those issues were applied to anyone else, including a journalist, I think they would be equally concerned.

Out on the campaign trail yesterday, Mr Ross said voters will be just as unforgiving of the Nationalists damaging stance of a presumption against new oil and gas licences.

He said: The SNP are opposed to new oil and gas developments, which is putting local jobs at risk.

While the Scottish Conservatives are out speaking to people in the North East about the issues that matter to them, the Nationalists will be mostly in the Central Belt talking about independence.

Nationalist MP Kirsty Blackman said Mr Ross had no business lecturing anyone on broken priorities, especially in the North East where his partys austerity, Brexit, and broken energy promises have caused economic devastation to communities.

She added: And while this has happened Douglas Ross and his spineless seven Tory MPs have gleefully backed the UK Government, who have levelled extraordinary damage on families in this region.

While billions of pounds are extracted in oil and gas in the North Sea, the Tories reward households in the region with higher energy costs and a Westminster cost of living crisis that has cost every family in Scotland.
Donald Trump will get a campaign cash pick-me-up from a multi-billionaire who previously vowed not to back the former president this go around.

Stephen Schwarzman, the CEO and co-founder of the private equity behemoth Blackstone, had called for 'a new generation of leaders' to step up and said he wouldn't back Trump again in the aftermath of January 6.

But now, in a stunning reversal, he told Axios his bid to back Trump in 2024 is a 'vote for change.'

He plans on donating to Trump's campaign, along with those of Republican Senate candidates.

Stephen Schwarzman, the multi-billionaire CEO of Blackstone shown above at the Met Gala with his wife, said he will be donating to Donald Trump and other Republican's campaigns

Schwarzman's decision to back Trump came to a head as his concerns over rising anti-Semitism has intensified.

He also expressed skepticism of Biden's political agenda.

'The dramatic rise of antisemitism has led me to focus on the consequences of upcoming elections with greater urgency,' he told Axios in a statement.

'I share the concern of most Americans that our economic, immigration and foreign policies are taking the country in the wrong direction.'

'For these reasons, I am planning to vote for change and support Donald Trump for President.'

'In addition, I will be supporting Republican Senate candidates and other Republicans up and down the ticket,' his statement continued.

The Blackstone boss previously supported Trump during his first White House run, acting as chairman of the former president's Strategic and Policy Forum - a group tasked with improving the U.S. economy.

In fact, Trump and Schwarzman were so close the former president attended the private equity giant's lavishly extravagant birthday party in 2017 shortly after he took office.

But he soon turned his back on Trump in 2022, saying 'America does better when its leaders are rooted in today and tomorrow, not today and yesterday.'

'It is time for the Republican Party to turn to a new generation of leaders and I intend to support one of them in the presidential primaries,' Schwarzman's 2022 statement continued.

Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman listens to then-U.S. President Donald Trump during Trump's strategy and policy forum with chief executives of major U.S. companies at the White House in Washington February 3, 2017

Donald and Melania Trump have a long friendship with the billionaire, and even attended his glamorous 70th birthday in 2017

Schwarzman laughs alongside former President Donald Trump at an economic meeting in 2017

He could even convince some big donors who have been on the fence about supporting Trump to reconsider their positions.

His support will also surely provide the former president with an expanded network of donors in Schwarzman's orbit.

And for Trump, getting support from some of Wall Street's largest titans shows how he is clawing back support from the Empire State's most influential crowd.

Especially after his campaign rally in The Bronx Thursday, which drew an estimated 25,000 attendees.
He was reported to have described his experience at Gordonstoun as 'Colditz in kilts'.

And while the school strongly contests he ever said this, it appears the King's opinion on his alma mater has recently softened.

For the monarch has accepted a prestigious patronage at the Scottish education establishment to mark the first anniversary of his coronation.

The role at the Gordonstoun Association, which exists to strengthen links between the school and its former pupils and staff, was previously held by his father and fellow ex-pupil Prince Philip.

Although he has made several personal visits since he left as a pupil in 1967, the announcement represents His Majesty's first official link with the school on the north coast of Scotland.

Prince Charles (now King Charles III), with his father the Duke of Edinburgh (left) and Captain Iain Tennant, Chairman of the Gordonstoun Board of Governors, arriving at Gordonstoun for the Prince's first day in 1962

Queen Elizabeth II visiting Gordonstoun during Prince Charles' final year in 1967

The monarch has accepted a prestigious patronage at Gordonstoun School to mark the first anniversary of his coronation

Charles, then Prince of Wales, was the first future British monarch to be educated at a school rather than tutored at home. He attended between 1962 and 1967, leaving as House Captain and Guardian (Head Boy) with five O-levels.

While it's unclear whether Charles actually likened his time at the school to the notorious POW camp, many biographers have recorded how he felt 'abandoned' and pleaded with his parents to take him out. However Charles has gone on to say he is 'glad I went to Gordonstoun'.

The school's principal Lisa Kerr said: 'As our most prominent former student, His Majesty exemplifies so many of the qualities we seek to instil in our students, notably a lifelong commitment to service.'

A spokesman for Gordonstoun said it has never been independently verified that the King used the phrase 'Colditz in kilts' and believes it 'misrepresents student life at the school during this period'.

Trooping the Colour will go ahead on Saturday, June 15, with the King present. While Buckingham Palace has had to cancel dozens of events as a result of the General Election, the ceremony will be unaffected.
They're quick to take hard-working Britons to task if their book-keeping doesn't add up.

But shocking data unearthed by the Daily Mail today suggests that the taxman has been creative with his arithmetic.

When it comes to working from home, His Majesty's Revenue and Customs has long been one of the worst performing government departments, with monthly occupancy data for its London headquarters ranging between 48 and 66 per cent last month.

But those figures only give the proportion of desks that are actually occupied. The Mail can reveal that despite 1,012 employees being based at HMRC's office at 100 Parliament Street, it contains only 505 workplaces.

That means the total number of civil servants who are actually attending range between 242 and 333  between just 24 and 33 per cent of their total workforce.

The Mail can reveal that despite 1,012 employees being based at HMRC 's office at 100 Parliament Street (pictured), it contains only 505 workplaces.

Jacob Rees-Mogg  who as former Minister for Government Efficiency introduced the scheme requiring government departments to publish occupancy data  last night said: 'The service they are providing is simply not good enough'

That means the total number of civil servants who are actually attending range between 242 and 333  between just 24 and 33 per cent of their total workforce

Jacob Rees-Mogg  who as former Minister for Government Efficiency introduced the scheme requiring government departments to publish occupancy data  last night said: 'The service they are providing is simply not good enough.

'If members of the public could actually get through when they call them, and receive correct advice, and if people's complaints were being properly dealt with, then it would be fine for offices to sit empty. But that is not happening.'

Meanwhile, fewer than four in ten civil servants working for the taxman across Britain actually show up to the office each day. Despite complaints about poor customer service, just 38 per cent of UK-based HMRC staff were at their desks on an average day last month.

This number fell to as low as 24 per cent for mandarins based in the department's Whitehall office.

It comes after a damning report by the National Audit Office found members of the public wishing to speak to a tax advisor over the telephone were put on hold for almost 23 minutes.

It comes after a damning report by the National Audit Office found members of the public wishing to speak to a tax advisor over the telephone were put on hold for almost 23 minutes (stock image)

In January alone, 840,000 calls to HMRC went unanswered. Yet figures disclosed to the Mail under the Freedom of Information Act show that an average of just 23,269 of the Department's 61,186 employees nationwide have been turning up to the office each day.

And more than 10,000 of HMRC's 33,806 desks were typically empty throughout the week commencing April 22, the most recent period for which numbers are available.

In April, HMRC introduced new rules that supposedly limit staff to working from home on no more than two days per week. Asked why that hadn't boosted office attendance to 60 per cent, a source blamed holidays, sick-leave, and 'off-site' working.

And an HMRC spokesman insisted '95 per cent of colleagues expected to attend the office did so in March 2024 and most of those met or exceeded their minimum office attendance expectation'.

A recent Money Mail investigation found some taxpayers are being forced to endure year-long waits for tax refunds and nine-month delays in getting letters responded to. Today's findings also raise questions about the way in which HMRC and other departments are recording attendance figures at their Whitehall offices.

John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: 'The time taken for the taxman to pick up the phone has surged, and taxpayers will be left with little doubt that the work-from-home culture that has taken over HMRC is partly to blame.'
June 6, 1944 was the date when Britain, the USA and Canada led an Allied assault across a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast to begin the liberation of Europe. It was a feat of meticulous planning, using 5,000 ships and 1,200 aircraft to deliver more than 150,000 men to occupied France in a single day. Yet it could so easily have been a disaster.

Bad weather, espionage, intelligence failures and so many other variables could have led to a catastrophe. Instead, the Allies not only established a foothold but were soon advancing amid some of the fiercest fighting of the war. By the end of August, two million troops had landed and liberated France. The Low Countries followed soon afterwards.

It was a hard-fought winter en route to Germany. Yet by the following May, with Russia advancing from the East, victory in Europe was assured. Japan would surrender three months later, bringing the Second World War to an end.

No one is entirely sure how many Normandy veterans are still with us. In theory, anyone old enough to have been on active service on June 6, 1944 would be at least 98 by now. All will all have been at the lower end of any chain of command, their senior officers long since departed.

The other day, a gallant few Normandy veterans came to London to support the campaign to build the new education centre alongside the magnificent British Normandy Memorial, which now stands above Gold Beach (pictured: a wartime portrait of D-Day veteran John Dennett)

'I think about it all the time': Landing craft gunner John Dennett, now 99

June 6, 1944 was the date when Britain, the USA and Canada led an Allied assault across a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast to begin the liberation of Europe. It was a feat of meticulous planning, using 5,000 ships and 1,200 aircraft to deliver more than 150,000 men to occupied France in a single day. Yet it could so easily have been a disaster

Between them, organisations such as the Royal British Legion and the Spirit of Normandy Trust think there are between 50 and 100 of them living in the UK, with others scattered across the Commonwealth, the United States of America and beyond.

The other day, a gallant few came to London to support the campaign to build the new education centre alongside the magnificent British Normandy Memorial, which now stands above Gold Beach (thanks in no small part to readers of the Daily Mail).

Others are less mobile, which is why, in recent weeks, I have been travelling around the country talking to a cross-section of veterans in their own homes.

In total, they include a dozen old servicemen plus one very remarkable Wren (as members of the Women's Royal Naval Service were known). A few have returned regularly to northern France over the years. One or two are going back for the first time now.

Even today, fresh witnesses who have never previously spoken of their experiences are stepping forward. Some have yet to be reconciled with the past. To this day, one former boy sailor feels unable to return to a place which still haunts him.

My interviewees include a Royal Navy gunner for whom June 6 was a breeze compared to the crippling horror to come in the same spot two months later; an Essex teenager who would later meet Rommel when he was a prisoner of war; and a Lancashire private who was wounded in the worst V2 missile attack of the entire conflict before going on to witness one of its most notorious war crimes. What they all have in common is that their lives are still defined by what happened in Normandy 80 years ago.

They all regard themselves as ordinary people, yet there is nothing ordinary about any of them.

Life might have been heading in a pretty conventional direction for Geoffrey Weaving as his schooldays drew to an end in 1940. 'My father said: "What do you want to do?" And I said, "I haven't a clue."

Veteran Richard Brock pictured when he joined the army aged 18 in 1942

Second wave: Richard Brock (pictured, in April) was on a transport ship on D-Day

Christian Lamb pictured in 1943. Each day, Christian and her colleagues would be sent home from work early, at 4pm, to give them a better chance of getting to their accommodation before the nightly air raids

'Intensely exciting': Mrs Lamb, now 103, plotted landing zone maps

'He said: "Well, how about going into a bank? You get a very good pension." 'So I left school at 16 and, joined the Midland Bank in Goole.'

In 1942, however, with no end to the war in sight, he was called up.

'I didn't fancy the Army after all the pictures I had seen of the trenches in the First World War,' Mr Weaving tells me at his care home in Horsham, West Sussex.

Having once listened to a children's radio programme about Morse code, he set his sights on becoming a wireless operator.

Peter Seaborn was at the local grammar school in Essex when, on September 3, 1939, Britain declared war on Germany. His parents thought it would all be over before it involved their three school-age sons.

'My mother said to my father: "I'm glad the boys haven't got to go",' Mr Seaborn recalls at his home in Tiptree.

In the end, all three brothers would serve King and country, two of them in the thick of the D-Day action.

Down in Bristol, 15-year-old Stan Ford watched as his elder brothers went off to serve, one by one. In the end, all eight boys would see action  and all, miraculously, would return home.

Boy sailor: 16-year-old Peter Seaborn (pictured, as a young sailor in Portsmouth in 1944) lied about his age to join up

Mr Seaborn pictured at home in Essex. He recalls the sense of irritation on board his destroyer when they learned that they had missed the first wave

Ken Hay (pictured, right) with brother Bill, who served in the same platoon as him

Mr Hay pictured at home in Essex. He remembers first hearing that D-Day was under way while on a 30-mile route march around Sussex

Fresh from her Catholic boarding school, admiral's daughter Christian Oldham was staying with a French family near Strasbourg in the summer of 1939, perfecting her French. Christian's father ordered her home by telegram and she managed to catch the last ferry back to England before the outbreak of hostilities.

Dispatched to live with her grandmother in Scotland  where she learned to play bridge and drive a car  she resolved that she was going to join the Wrens. 'The idea was to free up a sailor to go to sea and I liked the idea of a uniform,' explains the 103-year-old author (whose later books include a wartime memoir called 'I Only Joined For The Hat').

She soon learned the random cruelty of war. Having undergone her basic training, she found herself working at the Wrens' headquarters (in the next door office to Winston Churchill's daughter, Diana) at the height of the London Blitz.

Home was a row of houses in Hampstead, North London, known as 'the Wrennery'.

She recalls: 'We had to sleep in the basement during air raids and I remember one night a whole stick of bombs landed on the other side of the road and took out every other house.

'They just disappeared.'

Each day, Christian and her colleagues would be sent home from work early, at 4pm, to give them a better chance of getting to their accommodation before the nightly air raids.

'One night, we were on the bus home and saw a cinema showing a film we want to see so we got off and watched it and went home.

'The next morning, we were on the bus going past it again and there was just this huge hole in the ground. So we must have just missed the bomb, but you didn't dwell on things like that.

'We were fatalistic.'

Keen to do something more than desk work, Christian became a 'plotter' and was posted to Belfast to chart the movements of Allied shipping in the Battle of the Atlantic. Convoys full of vital food supplies had to brave marauding fleets of German U-boats.

Early on, she met a dashing young officer whose Royal Navy destroyer was in for repairs.

'His ship was there for about ten days. And on the last day, John and I got engaged.'

Veteran Jim Belcher pictured as a Royal Marine. He could not decide between the Army and the Navy so joined the Royal Marines

Mr Belcher pictured recently. His small landing craft, carrying 14 soldiers, came in right behind another vessel carrying Special Forces commando engineers whose job was to clear booby traps from obstacles on Gold Beach

She had the agonising experience of plotting an incident in which John's own ship, HMS Oribi, rammed a U-boat in the mid-Atlantic. And radio silence then ensued.

'Many weeks went by before I realised this man I had just snatched had not been lost,' Mrs Lamb tells me in her Battersea flat. 'Very lucky.'

They married in 1943 and then, the following year, she was posted back to London, by now pregnant with her first child.

There in a drab office off Whitehall, she was put to work on a project so sensitive that she would not dream of even mentioning it to her husband. Her task was to study two specific stretches of the Normandy coast in minute detail.

'My brief was to delineate everything that could be seen from a landing craft, whether that was a main road or a chateau or church or railway. Whatever could be visible  and from every angle.' There, sitting in front of her, were the charts of the main British landing zones for the impending invasion of France, Sword Beach and Gold Beach.

'It was intensely exciting work,' she admits, adding that from time to time she would even see Winston Churchill coming down the stairs. She never forgot the one overriding imperative: 'It was crucial the maps were 100 per cent accurate.'

Young chaps like Stan Ford had rather less idea of what was going on. After leaving school in Bristol, joining the Home Guard and acting as a messenger during air raids, he joined up in 1943. He opted for the Royal Navy  'because I was a strong swimmer'.

In 1944, he joined his first ship, HMS Fratton, with the job of manning the anti-aircraft gun.

Up in Wigan, Jim Belcher, could not decide between the Army and the Navy so joined the Royal Marines.

Unlike many of his intake, he actually enjoyed the famously rigorous basic training at Lympstone. 'You got nice sheets and you learned to box,' he says. By the spring of 1944, he was doing trial runs with his landing craft on the Isle of Wight.

Peter Seaborn had been itching to join up ever since leaving school, but was still too young.

At 16, however, everyone received their own ration book, so young Seaborn quickly amended his  to reach the 17 years of age required.

'It had my date of birth down as 1927 so I changed the 7 to a 6 and then I was in,' he recalls. Why did he lie about his age? 'I was the youngest son and the only one of the three who had been to grammar school. I think I felt a little bit guilty that my brothers hadn't got that kind of education and I wanted to be like them.'

So, still just 16 and with the rank of Boy First Class, he went to sea, initially on North Atlantic convoys.

Stan Ford pictured with wife Eileen on their wedding day in 1947. After leaving school in Bristol, joining the Home Guard and acting as a messenger during air raids, he joined up in 1943

Mr Ford pictured at home in Bath. Watching the vast fleet while still at anchor off Selsey, Stan Ford knew one thing: 'I said "We're not going to lose this war" '

'It got so cold my jaw froze,' he recalls. He was then transferred to a destroyer, HMS Waldegrave, which was charged with guarding the approaches to the Channel from the Atlantic. His mathematical abilities were spotted and he was charged with helping the ship's navigation officer plot his charts.

Geoff Weaving had sensed that something was up when his ship, HMS Astral, was summoned to receive some new-fangled equipment for monitoring the sea bed and then diverted from patrolling duties off the East coast of England to the Solent.

There, he witnessed a sight he has never forgotten. 'We saw two of our planes crash in mid-air so we raced over to where it had happened, but there were just bits floating in the sea,' he remembers. On a cheerier note, he also recalls turning 20 and being allowed to receive his first tot of rum.

Finally, everything became clear for all those involved as June 6 dawned beneath a grey sky. Among the first to see France that morning was Jim Belcher of the Royal Marines. His small landing craft, carrying 14 soldiers, came in right behind another vessel carrying Special Forces commando engineers whose job was to clear booby traps from obstacles on Gold Beach.

'It was 5.30 in the morning and I thought: "It's quiet here".

'There was a beachmaster walking up and down and It was like landing on Blackpool beach,' he tells me with a chuckle.

'We got the soldiers off. The Germans must have been asleep. And then suddenly the guns opened up from HMS Warspite. All the other ships started firing and the sky was full of planes. The Germans weren't asleep after that.'

Geoff Weaving also remembers the calm as dawn broke. His ship, Astral, had the job of leading Canadian troops into their landing zone, Juno Beach, at first light.

'I remember the skipper said: "Tonight we are going to invade France."

'And then we set off leaving a trail of buoys for the Canadians to follow behind us.' Just as Astral was approaching the shore, the battleships started firing over their heads. 'I thought, at the time, this was a mistake because it had been all quiet. And I thought: maybe we've woken the Germans. Then they started firing. And once we got near, it got very intense.

'We were at the front, though the Germans were not much interested in us. They were interested in killing the Canadians. It was carnage.'

And there his ship remained until late afternoon, guiding in successive waves to Juno Beach.

'All we had was the sight of bodies washing against the ship,' he sighs. 'The ones who had been shot; the ones who'd been wounded and had dropped in the water with heavy packs on and drowned.' He still shudders at the memory.

'The skipper was a very difficult man. All these bodies were in the water and one of the seamen said: "Skipper, why the hell don't we fish some of them out. They're people's children."

'I won't say exactly what the skipper said but he put him in his place: "You've got a job to do! Get on with it!"

'And so we just didn't do anything. We were helpless. It was a terrible sight.' John Dennett, now 99, was manning an anti-aircraft gun on board a huge tank landing craft. He came ashore on Sword Beach and then had to wait there all day until the tide came back in to float the vessel off again.

'It was only late in the day when I was having a smoke over the rail at the back and saw two Royal Marines in a small boat with a boat-hook pulling bodies out of the water. These poor souls had gone out with the tide and then came back. I didn't think about it much at the time. Now I think about it all the time.'

The very same sight greeted Jim Belcher's landing craft when it moved to the American sector at Utah Beach.

'It was terrible. There were bodies in the sea from a landing craft that didn't make it,' he recalls. 'It was shocking really. At first, the Americans wouldn't get off after seeing the bodies.' For Alec Penstone, an expert in submarine detection aboard the carrier HMS Campania, however, escorting the Normandy landings was no more daunting than his usual beat  the icy horrors of the Arctic convoys to and from Russia (where he would return soon afterwards).

Having volunteered at 17, Private Ken Hay of the Dorset Regiment remembers first hearing that D-Day was under way while on a 30-mile route march around Sussex.

For what is often forgotten is that most Normandy veterans were not actually there on D-Day itself. June 6 was merely the start of a murderous three-month war of attrition in the fields and hedgerows.

Similarly Richard Brock would spend D-Day dawn at anchor in the Medway on board the supply ship Ocean Vigil along with the rest of his battalion from the East Lancs Regiment. They were part of General Montgomery's second wave. 'We were support troops so that if the Germans broke through somewhere, then Monty could send us in,' he recalls. He would have no shortage of action when the time came.

For Christian Lamb, the Wren, the job was done.

'I heard on my radio that our troops had landed on the beaches that I had so carefully mapped out in that tiny office,' she recalls. 'It was a moment I shall remember for the rest of my life.' Nearly six months pregnant, she would leave the Wrens shortly afterwards.

Peter Seaborn recalls the sense of irritation on board his destroyer when they learned that they had missed the first wave. 'We were in Milford Haven, waiting to escort all these American ships across and the captain told us that the invasion had started. We were disappointed we weren't there and we also realised that the Nazis would now be more alert to our arrival.' He, too, would soon come to realise the horrors in wait.

Newly arrived from Jamaica, Gilbert Clarke remembers his fellow RAF recruits rushing to the window of their Cambridgeshire training base to see fleets of D-Day aircraft fill the sky.

Watching the vast fleet while still at anchor off Selsey, Stan Ford knew one thing: 'I said "We're not going to lose this war".'

By the end of Day One of the landings, codenamed Operation Overlord, a total of 4,414 Allied servicemen had been killed with many more wounded. Britain alone had lost 1,475 soldiers, sailors and aviators.

Geoffrey Weaving pictured in 1942. Life might have been heading in a pretty conventional direction for Geoffrey Weaving as his schooldays drew to an end in 1940. 'My father said: "What do you want to do?" And I said, "I haven't a clue" '

Mr Weaving pictured at home in Horsham. He had sensed that something was up when his ship, HMS Astral, was summoned to receive some new-fangled equipment for monitoring the sea bed and then diverted from patrolling duties off the East coast of England to the Solent

Many of these had set off for France by parachute or glider under cover of darkness, only to be blown out of the sky or dropped in the wrong place. Others had been lost at sea or killed within minutes of landing. Yet they constituted just seven per cent of the eventual British losses in Normandy.

D-Day might now be over. For so many, however, the battle had only just begun.

To support the British Normandy Memorial or buy a plaque for a loved one, visit britishnormandymemorial.org
She was a princess born amidst a succession crisis - after her father won the race to produce a legitimate heir.

Although she was a seemingly safe fifth in line to the throne when she arrived into the world 205 years ago today, fate had other ideas - just like it did with her great-great-granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Victoria - as she became aged 18 in 1837 after her three uncles died without surviving heirs - went on to rule for 63 years, seven months and two days.

Her reign defined an era of staid morality and epic industrial and social change.

By the time Victoria died aged 81 in 1901, she was known as 'the Grandmother of Europe'.

Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm and Russia's Empress Alexandra were among her many grandchildren.

Her reign was only eclipsed by Queen Elizabeth, who was on the throne for more than 70 years but who only ever became monarch because her uncle Edward VIII abdicated.

Queen Victoria - as she became aged 18 in 1837 after her three uncles died without surviving heirs - ruled for 63 years, seven months and two days

Birth

Victoria was born after her uncle George IV's only daughter Princess Charlotte had died giving birth to a stillborn son.

The 21-year-old was in labour for an agonising 50 hours after which she haemorrhaged and died.

In a desperate 'baby race', the King's unmarried brothers attempted to produce legitimate heirs to the throne.

Victoria's father, Prince Edward Augustus, hastily married German widow Marie Luise Victoire, Dowager Duchess of Leiningen.

Victoria was born to her parents Prince Edward Augustus (left) and Marie Luise Victoire, Dowager Duchess of Leiningen (right)

Victoria was born on May 24, 1819 in the dining room at Kensington Palace

The pair rushed back to England, where Victoria was born in the dining room of Kensington Palace - so that hot water could be brought up quickly from the kitchens to her pained mother.

The baby was described as 'plump as a partridge' and christened Alexandrina Victoria.

Childhood

According to Victoria, she was 'brought up very simply'.

After her father died when she was just eight months old, his personal equerry Sir John Conroy seized the opportunity to act as 'advisor' to her mother, whose English was poor.

Conroy saw it as an opportunity to grow his influence in the royal household, implementing a strict set of rules for Victoria and her mother which he termed the Kensington System.

The system saw Victoria grow up in isolation from her father's family - often turning to her beloved governess, Baronness Lehzen, and her little dog Dash for company.

Princess Victoria with her mother, the Duchess of Kent. She was 'brought up very simply'

A portrait of Princess Victoria aged six. The little girl was raised in the confines of Kensington Palace

Victoria, pictured aged 10, first learned about her future role as monarch during a history lesson

Victoria first learned about her future role as monarch during a history lesson when she was only ten years old.

Her governess recalled her reacting to the discovery by saying: 'I will be good'.

As a result of the Kensington System, the public did not associate the young princess with her unpopular uncles George IV and William IV.

When King William finally appeared to be on death's door, her supporters were delighted by the prospect that she would ascend to the throne, presenting her as 'The Nation's Hope'.

Becoming Queen

At 6am on June 20, 1837, Victoria was woken to be told her uncle, the King, had died.

She wrote in her diary: 'I got out of bed and went into my sitting-room (only in my dressing-gown), and alone, and saw them.

'Lord Conyngham (the Lord Chamberlain) then acquainted me that my poor Uncle, the King, was no more, and had expired at 12 minutes p.2 this morning, and consequently that I am Queen.'

Queen Victoria was crowned on June 28, 1838. Above: The monarch in her coronation robes

The young woman's first action as queen was to exile her mother to a distant set of apartments as Victoria had never had a room to herself before. Above: A depiction of Victoria's Coronation

'I shall do my utmost to do fulfil my duty towards my country,' Victoria wrote in her diaries. Above: In her coronation robes

It is estimated that Victoria wrote more than 60million words, mainly in her diaries, throughout her life.

The young woman's first action as queen was to exile her mother to a distant set of apartments as Victoria had never had a room to herself before.

She dismissed Conroy in order to throw off the shackles of his Kensington System and moved to Buckingham Palace almost immediately, only accompanied by Baroness Lehzen, her companion and former governess.

Victoria was crowned in Westminster Abbey on June 28, 1838.

'I shall do my utmost to do fulfil my duty towards my country,' she wrote in her diaries.

'I am very young and perhaps in many, although not all, inexperienced, but I am sure that very few have more real good will and more real desire to do what is fit and right than I have.'

Prince Albert

Victoria first met her German cousin Prince Albert in 1836, when he and his brother Ernest visited Kensington Palace with their uncle Leopold, King of the Belgians.

Their families had arranged their union since the pair were very young, and when the couple met again in 1839, Victoria now the Queen, decided she was ready to marry the prince.

As protocol demanded, Victoria proposed to Albert on October 15, 1839 - just five days after he arrived at Windsor on a visit to the British court.

Queen Victoria photographed with Prince Albert in 1854. The couple were deeply in love and had nine children together

The marriage would help Victoria with her royal duties and improve her public standing, but the union had a deep bond underlying it.

The Queen wrote in her diary: 'Oh how I adore and love him, I cannot say!'

Their wedding in February 1840 was the first royal union to take place with the enjoyment of the public in mind.

Victoria travelled to St James's Palace in an open carriage so the crowds could admire her.

She wore a simple white satin dress with an orange blossom wreath in her hair.

Her uncle, the Duke of Sussex, walked her down the aisle in place of her late father.

The newly weds embarked on a short honeymoon which Victoria raved about her in diary, writing: 'My dearest Albert put on my stockings for me. I went in and saw him shave; a great delight for me'.

Children

Victoria wrote that she found pregnancy difficult and was uncomfortable in the presence of children but, like many women at the time, a large family was her ambition.

Their first child, Victoria, was born in 1840. The Princess Royal was followed by Albert Edward (1841), Alice (1843), Alfred (1844), Helena (1846), Louise (1848), Arthur (1850), Leopold (1853) and Beatrice (1857).

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert with five of their nine children, 1846

Victoria never lost her early passion for Albert, writing: 'Without him everything loses its interest'

Victoria had marble sculptures made of each of her nine children - produced from casts taken of them while they were asleep.

The Queen's first grandchild was born in 1859 and her first great-grandchild in 1879. There were 37 great-grandchildren alive at her death.

Despite conflicts produced by the Queen's fierce temper and recurrent fits of depression, which usually occurred during and after pregnancy, the couple had a happy marriage.

Victoria never lost her early passion for Albert, writing: 'Without him everything loses its interest.'

Albert carved out a powerful role as Prince Consort, taking charge of many of his wife's commitments.

When she was pregnant, Albert had the honour of reading the daily government dispatches to her.

They even placed their desks side by side at Buckingham Palace so they would work together.

Against a backdrop of a world marked by huge advances in technology and legendary feats of construction, Prince Albert was fascinated with trade, industry, art and science.

In 1851 he organised the massively successful Great Exhibition.

With over 100,000 exhibits from all over the world, including the Koh-i-Nur diamond, the exhibition attracted more than six million visitors.

Victoria was so fascinated by her husband's achievements that she bought a ticket and attended the exhibition nearly every day for three months.

The death of her husband

Sadly for Victoria, the man she relied on for support died in 1861, aged only 42.

Queen Victoria was devastated. At a Privy Council meeting three weeks after his death she could not utter a word.

She wrote to her uncle Leopold: 'The poor fatherless baby of eight months is now the utterly broken-hearted and crushed widow of forty-two! My life as a happy one is ended! The world is gone for me!'

After Albert's death in 1861, Victoria wore black for the rest of her life and her sharp withdrawal from public life lasted ten years

At a Privy Council meeting three weeks after Albert's death, Queen Victoria could not utter a word

Victoria wore black for the rest of her life and her sharp withdrawal from public life lasted ten years.

The monarch almost obsessively tried to keep the presence of Albert in the lives of her nine children.

At one of her son's weddings, she insisted the siblings pose around a bust of Albert.

Empire

During her reign, the British Empire underwent an enormous expansion.

Victoria had a had a personal servant from India, Abdul Karim, who taught the monarch how to speak Urdu.

Queen Victoria, Empress of India, listening to a despatch alongside Abdul Karim, her Indian servant

By the end of her life, the Empire covered more than one-fifth of the world's surface, including the entirety of the Indian sub-continent.

Victoria was crowned Empress of India on May 1, 1876.

Despite her title, Victoria never visited the country.

Golden and Diamond Jubilees

The Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations in 1887 and the even more extravagant Diamond Jubilee in 1897 helped to restore Victoria's public image following the death of Prince Albert and her retreat behind the walls of Windsor Castle.

In a telegraph message to her subjects in 1897, Victoria wrote: 'From my heart I thank my beloved people. May God bless them!'

Death

Victoria grew frail in later years and had to use a wheelchair.

Her surviving dresses from this time show adaptations to accommodate an osteoarthritic hump on her upper back.

Despite significant sight loss, Victoria continued to write in her diaries. The last entry was dated January 13, 1901.

She wrote: 'Had a fair night, but was a little wakeful. Got up earlier & had some milk.'

Victoria grew frail in later years and had to use a wheelchair. Above: The monarch in 1890

Queen Victoria pictured in 1900 with some of her great-grandchildren at Osbourne House, where she later died

Osbourne House on the Isle of Wight was Queen Victoria's summer residence

Queen Victoria's funeral took place on February 4, 1901. Crowds lined the streets as her coffin was taken to St George's Chapel in Windsor

Her first grandson, Kaiser Wilhelm II, rushed from Germany to be by Victoria's side when she died on January 22 at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.

Queen Victoria's funeral took place on February 4, 1901.

In accordance with her wishes, she was dressed in white and wore her wedding veil.

Her coffin was taken first by boat to Hampshire before being carried by train to Victoria station.

Crowds in London lined the streets as they sought to get a final glimpse of the Queen.

Her coffin was then taken to Windsor's St George's Chapel. The Queen had requested that casts of her children's hands and Albert's dressing gown be placed in her coffin.

After the funeral service, she was laid to rest inside Frogmore Mausoleum, which Victoria had built for Albert after his death.

Above its mausoleum's doors, Victoria's choice words read: 'Vale desideratissime. Farewell most beloved. Here at length, I shall rest with thee, with thee in Christ I shall rise again.'
Is this the most anticipated summer blockbuster of the year?

Hugh Grosvenor, 33, one of Britains wealthiest men and the 7th Duke of Westminster, is to marry Olivia Henson, 31, a graduate of Marlborough College, at the very poshest of posh weddings on Friday June 7.

The streets of Chester will be lined with well-wishers when the happy couple emerge from Cathedral.

The new Lady Grosvenor can look forward to life as mistress of Eaton Hall, the family estate nearby, plus 300 profitable acres of Mayfair and Belgravia. Whats not to like?

The Duke of Westminster and his fiancee Olivia Henson are set to tie the knot in Chester Cathedral on June 7

Prince Harry, one of Hugh Grosvenor oldest friends, won't be there grinning, hugging and blowing kisses. He is pictured at his wedding to Meghan in 2018

The only sad note is that Prince Harry, one of Hughs oldest friends, wont be there grinning, hugging and blowing kisses.

Harry and Meghan were sent a save the date but have since declined. Not a decision theyd make lightly. Hugh, after all, is Prince Archies godfather.

Whatever the Duke of Westminster made of it in private, it seems hes not insisted that his mate, the prince, attend.

As a friend of Harry told The Times: Its incredibly sad it has come to this. Hugh is one of the very few close friends of William and Harry who has maintained strong bonds with both.

READ MORE: LIZ JONES: How the past few days have shown us the depth of Kate and Charles's special relationship - and the very touching thing he said to her after she revealed her cancer diagnosis Advertisement

He wishes they could put their heads together and patch things up but realises its unlikely to happen before the wedding.

He wanted to avoid anything overshadowing the day, especially for Olivia, and doesnt want any awkwardness.

William, meanwhile, will be acting as an usher.

Its like a game of Twister, a tangled web of turbulent toffs that has sadly been pulled apart.

I imagine William, though outwardly beaming, will actually feel a great deal of sadness that such a happy day cannot be shared. Catherine will not be by his side, as she continues her recovery from surgery.

King Charles and Camilla will be no shows, too, even though Charles is Hugh Grosvenors godfather.

The King and Queen will be in France, representing Britain with other world leaders at a ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

As it happens, Camilla might not be so very sorry to miss the fun in Chester.

She was said to have been snubbed at the 2004 wedding of Hughs older sister, Lady Tamara.

Camilla Parker Bowles, as she then was, had reportedly been told she could neither sit next to her lover, Prince Charles, in Chester Cathedral, nor arrive at the same time.

This was supposedly a matter of protocol as the late Queen and Prince Philip were among the guests.

Charles swiftly excused himself from the occasion with only days to go.

Weddings are when family and friends should put aside any differences, any squabbles, and turn up with a smile on their faces (wedding gifts are, understandably, banned on this occasion).

It is not about YOU, it is about the happy couple.

I, for one, would love to see little Archie and sister Lili all dressed up and would happily spend hours dissecting Meghans outfit.

I can only imagine shes gagging to attend: who wouldnt want to see inside Eaton Hall?

Perhaps the Duke of Westminster is worried the star power of Harry and Meghan will cause a distraction, a media circus

Prince William, pictured with Grosvenor back in 2004, was at one point in the running to be his best man

Perhaps the Duke of Westminster is worried the star power of Harry and Meghan will cause a distraction, a media circus. He has always protected his privacy.

But I doubt a young man with several hundred years of inherited wealth and privilege in his back pocket possesses such a fragile ego.

Its such a shame, a lost opportunity. Front page photographs of William and Harry suited and booted, slapping each other on the back would have brought about a national sigh of relief after so many difficult years.

Forget the Euros, Wimbledon, the Olympic Games in Paris: that would have been the spirit-lifting image of the summer.

If even they can bury the hatchet, then so can we heal the rifts in our own lives. But no.

This wedding, despite the class of the participants, is almost like an episode of EastEnders. All that tension, the focus on who wont be attending, must surely detract from what should be a wonderful day.

Wedding portraits framed on Steinway grand pianos will forever have gaps where prematurely bald heads should have gleamed.

Yes, the working royals have cleared their official diaries because of the forthcoming general election (so as not to overshadow the business of politics). But a society wedding comes under an umbrella marked private and would not have been affected.

So, come on, we need the distraction! Even now its not too late for a change of heart.

Weddings and funerals are when you grow up and show up. Would William really throw a hissy fit if Harry came along? I doubt it, hes much stronger than that.

Any serious illness lends perspective. You hug everyone closer. William knows he has bigger worries in his personal life right now.

His job, after all, has always entailed being a diplomat, able to smile and not look bored, even as a small boy.

He has been hurt, but the brother who could help him through might still be in reach, if only he could forgive him.

William knows that doing the right thing  the difficult thing  goes with the territory.

Now is the time to seize the happy day.
Korean tech giant says its HBM chip testing proceeded smoothly

By Baek Byung-yeul

Samsung Electronics refuted a Friday news report that it failed to pass a test of Nvidia's high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips. It said its "tests with various global partners to supply HBM are on track."

Samsung is currently testing its HBM chips with U.S. graphic chip giant Nvidia to supply the memory chips for Nvidia's AI processors, but Reuters reported that Samsung did not pass the test due to issues with heat and power consumption.

"Samsung Electronics' latest high bandwidth memory (HBM) chips have yet to pass Nvidia's tests for use in the U.S. firm's AI processors due to heat and power consumption problems, three people briefed on the issues said," Reuters reported.

Nvidia is the leading company in the global AI chip market. While SK hynix lags behind Samsung in overall memory semiconductor market share, it holds the largest share in the rapidly growing AI memory chip market by exclusively supplying its HBM chips to Nvidia. To expand its presence in the fast-growing HBM market, Samsung is following in SK hynix's footsteps.

Regarding the report, Samsung answered it is "smoothly" conducting tests with multiple customers for their HBM chips.

"Samsung Electronics is smoothly conducting tests for HBM supply with various global partners. We are closely collaborating with many companies and continuously testing technology and performance," the company said in a statement.

The company added that it is working on verifying the quality and performance of HBM chips. "Samsung Electronics is continuously improving quality and enhancing reliability for all products, and we aim to provide the best solutions to our customers," it said.

Amid the concerns for Samsung, its stock price ended at 75,900 won on Friday, down 3.07 percent from the previous day.

Experts said that Samsung may have encountered these issues in an effort to deliver products quickly and that these types of issues are not uncommon in the semiconductor industry.

"According to the media report, Samsung's products might have issues with power consumption and heat, which are common problems when the optimization process in semiconductor manufacturing is not properly carried out," said Lee Jong-hwan, a professor of semiconductor engineering at Sangmyung University.

The professor, however, believes that Nvidia needs Samsung's participation to diversify its suppliers and expects both sides to continue testing the products.

"AI memory chips are essential for Nvidia's AI processors. Nvidia needs Samsung's participation to maintain the price competitiveness of its AI processors, so they will continue the testing process with Samsung," the professor said.

Jim Handy, a U.S.-based analyst from chip market research company Objective Analysis, said that while SK hynix currently leads the HBM market, Samsung could also stand out.

"When the 2022 price collapse occurred, all DRAM prices fell except for HBM. Suddenly, HBM was the only profitable part of the DRAM market. Samsung and Micron changed their minds about it and decided to compete with SK hynix," the analyst told The Korea Times.

"Part of Samsung's corporate culture is to be No. 1 in any market they enter. In memory chips, this has been DRAM, SRAM, Mask ROM, NOR flash and NAND flash, in that order. Now they want to become No. 1 in HBM. I fully expect them to do that."

In the fierce HBM race, Samsung's rival SK hynix is seeking to strengthen its grip on the market as it is exploring whether it can manufacture HBM in other countries, such as the United States and Japan, according to SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won.

The chairman expressed his intention to further strengthen cooperation with companies from Japan and around the world in an interview with Japan's Nihon Keizai Shimbun newspaper on Thursday.

"In the advanced manufacturing fields, including AI semiconductors, collaboration with the Japanese supply chain is indispensable. We will further strengthen collaboration and investment with Japanese manufacturers of devices and materials in the semiconductor field," Chey told the Japanese newspaper. "We are continuously investigating whether (HBM) can be manufactured in Japan and the U.S."
Jaw-dropping video captured a confrontation between US Border Patrol agents and illegal immigrants who tried to force their way into the US on the New Mexico border near El Paso, Texas.

Aerial footage shared by the Texas Department of Public Safety Thursday shows green-uniformed Border Patrol agents on foot and ATV racing towards the border wall as it's swarmed on the Mexican side.

At least half a dozen men on the Mexican side climbed the border barrier- which is anywhere from 19 to 30 feet tall - using a make-shift ladder.

As agents started taking migrants into custody, smugglers being paid to sneak the migrants in began throwing rocks, sand and even water bottles at the federal officers - which is a crime under U.S. law.

One full water bottle is chucked over the wall in an effort to stop the immigration agents from doing their job.

Aerial footage taken from a Texas DPS helicopter that was assisting US Border Patrol captured the confrontation between federal agents and illegal immigrants

In another bizarre scene, a second water bottle is handed over to a man perched on top of the border wall.

He appears to consider hurling it at an agent, before handing it to another man who instead opens it and takes a sip out of it.

Later a border officer on an ATV tires to pull down the ladder to prevent others from climbing the border wall.

A smuggler sitting on top of the wall is holding on to it and resists.

He and the agent engage in a tug of war, with the smugglers ultimately giving up before retreating back into their country.

US Border Patrol attempt to take migrants making illegal entry into the US, while smugglers on top of the border wall throw sand, rocks and water bottles at the officers

Smugglers perched on top of the border wall threw water bottles at the agents below

The incident happened near the Santa Teresa Port of Entry in New Mexico, less than ten miles outside of Texas.

Border Patrol's El Paso sector is currently the third busiest border crossing spot along the southern border with the Mexico-- behind the San Diego and Tucson sectors.

The region includes the West Texas city of El Paso and all of Southern New Mexico.

Migrants crossing into Texas's neighboring state are not looking to peacefully surrender to Border Patrol agents.

An unknown number of illegal immigrants were taken into custody

One Border Patrol agent struggles to take the ladder away from smugglers

Instead, the Santa Teresa area is a well-known smuggling spot, where migrants who are not seeking asylum look to evade Border Patrol agents all together.

In the most recent figures released by the federal agency, 30,393 migrants crossed the border in the El Paso sector in April.
Gen Z of legal age are having less sex than any generation in history - and experts warn it could lead to their genitalia shrinking.

Dr Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, a sex and relationship expert, told DailyMail.com that men who are sexually inactive can experience a very rare condition called penile atrophy - where penile tissue can become less elastic causing it to shrink by one to two centimeters.

She also says that going a month or more without having sex may cause men and women to experience increased stress levels due to sexual frustration, anxiety, depression and anger issues.

It can cause other psychological impacts and more make people more prone to infidelity.

Abstaining from sex can cause temporary and long-term issues from developing anxiety and anger issues to severe medical conditions and relationship issues

Despite the positive attachment to sex, a 2021 California University study found that 38 percent of young people between the ages of 18 and 30 reported they hadn't had any sexual partners in the previous year.

Experts warned that not having sex over weeks, months or years can have harmful effects on the human body.

Most people need affection, touch and sexual connections with others and without it, your mental health could deteriorate, causing anxiety, depression and increased levels of stress, Suwinyattichaiporn said.

She explained that all people are different and depending on the person's general mental health, the really extreme symptoms could develop within six months or take as long as five years.

Having sex releases feel-good hormones like oxytocin - also called the 'love hormone - dopamine and serotonin which regulate your emotions and boost your mood.

Dopamine is a chemical that the brain releases to make you feel pleasure, but if your body doesn't produce enough of it, you can develop insecurities and lower self-worth.

Couples who stop having sex could develop marital problems like dissatisfaction in the relationship that can lead to resentment, sexual infidelity, and divorce

A 2021 study suggested that people with unmet sexual needs can develop frustration that may lead to an increase in aggressive behavior.

This frustration can arise from the unfulfilled desire to have sex, not having an available partner or engaging in unsatisfying sexual activities which can lead to heightened irritability and mood swings.

It has led to an increase in 'the risks of aggression, violence, and crime associated with relief-seeking, power-seeking, revenge-seeking, and displaced frustration,' the study said.

If couples are experiencing a sex drought in their relationship, 'they don't approach their partner with softness, vulnerability and requests for compromise,' sex therapist Sari Cooper told DailyMail.com.

'They also don't have the technique to repair conflicts and instead blame one another, pursue the other with continuous criticism, or elicit a guilty response in order to get their needs met.'

Going through a 'dry period' is normal, Cooper added, but going too long without sex can cause major problems with your partner.

'Sometimes one partner may ask to open up the relationship so they can get their needs met in an ethical manner, and other partners may just have an outside sexual infidelity to meet the needs,' Cooper explained.

A 2021 California Health Interview Survey found that the number of young people abstaining from sex reached a record high, with 38 percent of people ages 18 to 30 saying they hadn't had any sexual partners in the last year.

This is compared to 22 percent of people who reported not having sex in a year from a decade earlier, the LA Times reported.

Suwinyattichaiporn warned that more extreme symptoms can arise from sex withdrawal including penile and vaginal atrophy, pain during sex, but added the caveat that this could take upwards of five years without sex to occur.

Men are at a higher risk of developing medical issues like penile atrophy and prostate cancer if they abstain from having sex for long time periods.

Researchers believe that carcinogens build up in the prostate over time, which increases the risk of cancer, but studies have found that ejaculation may prevent it because it flushes out the harmful chemicals that build up in the semen, according to the Urology Care Foundation.

Suwinyattichaiporn's warning that an inactive sex life can cause penile atrophy was echoed by Tobias Kohler, and assistant professor of urology at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine who told WebMD that without regular erections, the penis will become elastic and shrink.

The science behind how long it takes for penile atrophy to develop appears to still be up for debate.

A 2016 study found that men who ejaculated at least 21 times each month had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer than those who ejaculated just four to seven times a month.

Likewise, when a woman goes without sex for months, it can cause vaginal atrophy, making intercourse uncomfortable and sometimes painful.

Sexual activity increases the blood flow, lubrication and elasticity of vaginal tissues, but without it, a woman can develop vaginal atrophy - when the tissues become thin and dry - which can shorten the vaginal canal, making penetration more difficult.

Cooper advised that people who are going through a lengthy sexual lull first address their stress levels because it impacts your ability to notice if 'someone piques our neurotic nerve endings.'

'Stressed out people don't have the capacity to enjoy sex,' Suwinyattichaiporn added.

People can use methods to de-stress like practicing yoga or tai-chi, meditating, and scheduling regular date nights with your partner.

Cooper also suggested considering what has triggered your 'erotic desires' in the past - which don't always have to be physical.

'For example, someone may be very sound-oriented and if in a relaxed state can get really turned on when listening to or dancing to a type of music,' Cooper said.

For couples who feel like they're stuck in a sexless relationship and communicating isn't an option, Cooper recommended them to seek out a certified sex therapist to help them 'address these barriers with professional guidance.'
State health chiefs extracted rabid bats from two Illinois homes - as they warn pet owners to look out for rabies symptoms.

It comes weeks after rabies-riddled bats were discovered in Michigan. Bats carry the rabies virus in every U.S. state except for Hawaii.

State health officials are urging citizens to make sure that their rabies vaccinations are up-to-date for pets, valuable livestock and horses, as they keep alert for odd behavior from common rabies carriers: bats, racoons, skunks, coyotes and foxes.

The May 10 discovery of the two bats, now confirmed positive for rabies, has led IDPH to issue detailed guidance on how to prevent bats from nesting in homes and other residential properties as the threat of rabid bat activity heats up this summer.

State public health officials have successfully extracted rabid bats from two Illinois homes in Cook and Will counties - and now warn of more rabid creatures. Above, a big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), one of several species native to Illinois and nearby states

'Groups of bats can move into people's homes and that underscores the importance of knowing the ways of keeping bats out,' said IDPH director Dr Sameer Vohra.

'Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease,' Dr Vohra emphasized in her statement.

'It is important that Illinois residents know how to prevent rabies exposure to protect themselves and their loved ones.'

The IDPH director noted that the first step, if a bat is discovered inside a home, is to attempt to cover it with a container and contact animal control for rabies testing.

The health department advised wearing protective gloves while approaching the creature and using either a box or a coffee can to trap the winged mammal in place.

Illinois state is home to species of bat, like the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), which can weigh as little as a few nickels and is more than capable of sneaking through tight openings or cracks in doors and windows. Above, a little brown bat in flight

Installing coverings to chimney openings and ensuring that frames are secure on all entrances, like doors, windows and vents, will help reduce the risk of rabid bats in the home, IDPH noted in its 'bat exclusion' guide.

Any opening larger than a quarter of an inch, they advised, should be plugged to prevent bats from sneaking into the home.

Officials recommended a novel design for a 'one-way valve.' The valve system allows bats to leave a structure they have already infested, but blocks them from reentering

The state is home to species of bat, like the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), which can weigh as little as a few nickels and is more than capable of sneaking through tight openings or cracks in doors and windows.

IDPH recommended either 'caulk, expandable foam, plywood, mortar, metal flashing, steel wool or quarter-inch mesh screen or netting' for the task of plugging these openings, but also presented a novel design for a 'one-way valve.'

The valve system allows bats to leave a structure they have already infested, but blocks them from reentering.

While stereotypes about rabies might lead the public to imagine that all rabid animals act aggressively or are frothing at the mouth, the IDPH noted that 'changes in any animal's normal behavior can be early signs of rabies.'

A bat that is active during the day, for example, found on the ground, or appears to be unable to fly should treated as if it has rabies, the health officials said.

'If you have been bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention,' the IDPH stated in their advisory this week.

'Bite wounds can become infected and if the animal is high risk for rabies preventive treatment must begin quickly,' they noted.

Whenever possible, the officials that residents should 'not kill or release the bat before calling your doctor or local health department to help determine if you could have been exposed to rabies and need preventive treatment.'

A captured specimen can help local health officials decide the course of treatment for those exposed, they said.
Apple customers who suffered audio issues with their iPhone 7 or 7 Plus have little more than a week to file a claim for $349 cash, thanks to a class-action settlement.

A 2019 lawsuit filed in the US District Court for northern California charged that faulty 'audio IC' chips in these models of the phone led to pervasive audio issues with calls, Siri, the Voice Memos app, internal microphone fidelity, and more.

Apple's third-party repair professionals called it 'Loop Disease' as this set of recurring problems emerged with phones sold between early 2017 and late 2018.

While qualifying iPhone customers included in the settlement might have already received a postcard or email notification about their fair share of the $35 million award  the winning legal team has also posted an informational site.

Here's what you need to know, to find out if you qualify and how to get paid.

A 2019 lawsuit filed in the US District Court for northern California charged that faulty audio IC chips in the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus led to pervasive audio issues with calls, Siri, the Voice Memos app, microphone fidelity and more. Apple settled for $35 million but admitted no wrongdoing

Apple customers who suffered audio issues with their iPhone 7 or 7 Plus have little more than a week to file a claim for $349 cash, thanks to a class-action settlement. The June 3, 2024 deadline to file a claim is also the deadline to file objections to rejected claims

The June 3, 2024 deadline to file a claim, according to the settlement information site, is also the deadline to file objections to rejected claims  which means that iPhone 7 and 7 Plus customers who worry about being edge cases should file early.

Apple customers, who live in the United States and purchased an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus between September 16, 2016 and January 3, 2023 might qualify, if they reported audio issues with the phone to Apple and/or paid Apple for replacements or repairs.

To apply for a claim, iPhone 7 or 7 Plus owners will have to download, print out and mail in a settlement 'payment attestation form' by June 3.

Qualified claimants are likely to receive a minimum of $50 and as much as $349 depending on the level of repairs or replacements that they personally had previously paid to Apple over their audio issues with their iPhone 7 or 7 Plus.

Above, Apple's iPhone 7 close to when the device debuted in September 2016

Any customer who reported an audio issues, but did not pay Apple for repairs or replacements will qualify for a settlement payment up to $125.

The lawyers for the 2019 suit's six original plaintiffs, Andrea Gold and Greg Coleman, said they were 'proud of the nationwide class action settlement that is pending final approval before the court.'

Although Apple has agreed to pay the $35 million settlement, the company has denied any wrongdoing regarding the 'audio IC' chip issue in these two models of their best-selling and iconic series of iPhone mobile devices.

But as one customer described their struggles with 'loop disease' on the company's discussion forum: 'We are so frustrated with Apple and our daughters iPhone 7. She cannot hear callers, use FaceTime or Siri, or use her headphones.

'We finally got a name for the problem  loop disease. Has anyone else had this issue and if so were you able to resolve it?' the concerned parent asked. 'Preferably without spending more money.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Apple for comment on the settlement and will update this article, if they reply.
For four decades, since the height of the Cold War, a mysterious radio signal has been broadcast out of Russia  baffling ham radio fans, scientists and spies alike.

Some speculate it's part of the Russian government's own secret SETI program or even actively communicating with a visiting alien species.

Others believe it might be a 'Dead Hand' doomsday trigger, ready to launch nuclear weapons if Russia's leadership is knocked out of commission.

But according to a professor of electronics and radio engineering, who has studied the signal, one thing is certain: 'It is almost certainly the Russian government that is using it,' he said.

And: 'If it is the Russian government, it wouldn't be for peaceful purposes.'

For four decades, since the height of the Cold War, a mysterious radio signal has been broadcast out of Russia - example signal at left - baffling ham radio fans, scientists and spies alike. Above, right, one of the towers that broadcast the signal, 19 miles outside of Moscow

Professor David Stupples, who teaches electronic and radio engineering at the City University of London, personally believes that the enigmatic broadcast, nicknamed 'The Buzzer,' has likely been kept active as a fail-safe in case of nuclear war.

Broadcast at the 4625kHz shortwave radio frequency, the Buzzer has led some physicists to speculate that its signal is being used to monitor Earth's ionosphere.

But Professor Stupples  whose expertise is in orbital or otherwise space-based reconnaissance platforms, surveillance, and navigation systems  acknowledges that both incredible and mundane explanations are all still on the table.

'They may be just reserving the channel for air defense or some form of defense,' Stupples told Popular Mechanics this week.

'If they don't actually use it, someone will poach it,' according to Stupples. 'They are keeping the channel available by broadcasting and saying, "this is ours."'

In 2010, the source point of the UVB-76 broadcast shifted, surrounded by odd events and new quirks to its seemingly random tones, voices and information - which it has broadcast continuously since the 1970s

Amateur ham radio interest and unclassified scientific interest in 'The Buzzer,' officially known by its original call sign 'UVB-76,' first spiked in 1982.

Back then, the station was known to broadcast only a coded and baffling series of beeps, but by 1992 the broadcasts got stranger: a series of buzzing noises, 25 times every minute, for less than a second each, and occasionally an ominous foghorn.

During the nineties, UVB-76's buzzing would also become sporadically interrupted by anonymous male and female voices, who would read lists of seemingly random names, words, or numbers.

The tones of the noises the station broadcast would vary as well, potentially with secret information packed inside those tonal shifts.

This diversity of odd broadcasts is what caught Professor Stupples's and other researchers' attention, because that variety is out of character for a simple 'emergency placeholder' signal.

According to the surveillance engineering expert, a government or military institution that simply wants to keep control of a certain radio frequency will typically just broadcast a single basic test pattern, over and over again.

Not only does the UVB-76 'Buzzer' broadcast more complex and confusing signals instead  it does so powerfully, with over many thousands of watts of energy transferred, based on Professor Stupples's measurements, and in all directions.

'I have put it through my signal spectrum analyzers,' Stupples said, 'and I can't pick any intelligence out at all.'

A Russian student based in Canada, Egor Esveev, tracked down the mystery broadcast to a seemingly abandoned Russian base near Pskov, on the border with Estonia. Esveev told MailOnline.com in 2014 that he found the abandoned location very eerie

Freelance radio monitor Ary Boender from Holland, who runs the website Numbers Oddities, has heard and entertained many theories about the signal over the years.

'Some say that it is an old Soviet Dead Man's Switch that triggers a nuclear attack on the west when it stops buzzing,' she explained.

'Others say that it is a homing beacon for UFOs,' Boender continued, 'or a mind control device with which the Russians can program your mind.'

'In the past it was said that it was a remote control station belonging to the Chernobyl nuclear power plant,' she recalls.

Jochen Schafer, who served for many years as head of a citizen's group in Germany that spied on professional spies, once maintained that the Buzzer is a numbers station: a radio broadcast that allows agents in the field to transmit coded messages.

'It's no typical numbers station, but it is one,' Schafer insisted to Wired in 2011.

To this day, according to Stupples, all these theories, even the most outlandish ones, could still prove to be true.

'It is always entertaining, isn't it?' Stupples told Popular Mechanics. 'And you never know, one of those crank views may be right, and then we all eat humble pie.'

But the mystery of UVB-76 got deeper in 2010, when it disappeared from its first broadcasting location, which had been tracked down to a Russian army base near the town of Povarovo, 19 miles outside Moscow.

Most of the buildings, some half underground, were destroyed or abandoned according to Mr Evseev, while cables in some areas had been visibly torn from the ground

'We found tons of rubbish documents,' Evseev added. 'One that we found was interestingly enough about ceasing operations of the base'

The signal ceased broadcasting for a roughly 24 hours.

When it returned, odd pauses began appearing in the broadcast, and on August 25, 2010 amateur listeners eavesdropping on the station heard something they described as people shuffling around a room.

Some of these odd new transmissions resembled Morse code.

Then, one day, the station started blaring out snippets of composer Tchaikovsky's ballet 'Swan Lake,' and the call sign changed from 'UVB-76' to 'MDZhB,' spoken by a mystery figure saying 'Mikhail Dumitri Zhengya Boris.'

The station also once broadcast a time signal, with a one-minute long two-tune buzzer sounding at the top of every hour. This was disabled in June 2010, and no time signal has taken its place.

Interestingly, codes have also been repeated over months or years, for reasons unknown. On 26 January 2011 the operator read out 'ILOTICIN 36 19 69 46.' This was repeated almost four months later, on 11 May 2011.

Russian student Egor Esveev, 20, who originally comes from Moscow but now studies in Ottawa, told MailOnline in 2014 that he managed to track down the origin of the signal after it moved from Povarovo.

Esveev said he found it near Pskov, on the border with Estonia, which he explored and photographed himself.

'Like any abandoned building or area it was very creepy,' he told MailOnline in 2014.

'Strange people and very strange scenery.'

Esveev said he encountered 'a mid-40s woman' who was pushing 'a stroller.'

'At first I thought that she is a resident of the town out for a walk but as she walked past I saw that her stroller was empty,' he said.

'Who goes to an abandoned military base with an empty stroller for a walk?'

He said the station was set up like a 'typical Russian military base' with two different perimeters.

Most of the buildings, some half underground, were destroyed or abandoned according to Mr Evseev, while cables in some areas had been visibly torn from the ground.

'We found tons of rubbish documents,' he added. 'One that we found was interestingly enough about ceasing operations of the base.'

Esveev said thinks that the station may be used for some form of internal communication that, 'while secret, isn't sensitive enough for them to care about masking or keeping it secret.'

But no matter how hard people try to investigate the mystery of Russia's 4625kHz signal, according to Professor Stupples, the UK-based electronic and radio engineering expert, any definitive conclusions will likely stay just out of reach without some official confirmation.

'I think to find the whole truthand nothing but the truthI think it would have to come from the Russian Federation themselves,' Stupples said.
While being transported to a prisoner-of-war camp in Bayonne, France, Siddiq Ahmed decided to make his daring escape.

An assistant surgeon in India who had been working as a medic with the British Army during World War II, he and two fellow PoWs jumped from the train under cover of nightfall.

For ten days they attempted to avoid recapture, with just 500 francs escape money Siddiq had stitched inside the seam of his boots and a few potatoes to quell their hunger.

As historian Dr Ghee Bowman remarks, 'Escaping in France in 1943 for an Indian soldier was difficult. They didn't blend in. They had nothing to eat.

'The Germans were looking for them. And they didn't know where they were going. It was a big gamble.'

Above is the show's dramatic reconstruction of the Battle of the Bulge

Sergeant Johnnie Stevens is pictured as a tank commander in World War 2

Yet Siddiq managed to reach the Pyrenees, and from there made the 4,000-mile journey home to India via Madrid, Gibraltar and Cairo.

But while movies such as The Great Escape have immortalised the heroism of white British and US soldiers during the war, very little is known of similar heroics performed by the likes of Siddiq and his fellow black and Asian soldiers.

This anomaly is addressed in Erased: WWII's Heroes Of Colour  a documentary highlighting these overlooked stories.

Luther star Idris Elba, whose grandad was a World War II veteran, narrates, saying, 'We'll restore these unsung heroes to their rightful place.'

More than eight million people of colour served with the Allies during the war, and with this in mind the documentary attempts to re-evaluate four of its greatest battles  Pearl Harbor, Dunkirk, D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge  through recorded interviews and re-enactments.

A cook with the American Navy, Doris Miller, 22, was serving on USS West Virginia at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii when the ship was torpedoed by the Japanese in December 1941. He was sent to the control tower to help the captain, who was seriously wounded.

In addition, as the ship's executive officer noted in his report, '[Doris] was instrumental in hauling people through the oil and water along the quarterdeck, saving the lives of a number of people.'

But he didn't stop there. To help defend against the relentless aerial attack, Doris raced to a deck gun and returned fire  despite black sailors in the navy having no gunnery training.

Official records had him shooting down one enemy plane, while eye witnesses credited him with between two and six hits.

As Doris said later, 'I just thought I'd better start hitting those planes before they hit me. I forgot all about the fact that I and other Negroes can only be messmen and aren't taught how to man an anti-aircraft gun.'

In May 1942 he was awarded the Navy Cross  the US Navy's second-highest military decoration.

Luther star Idris Elba , whose grandad was a World War II veteran, narrates, saying, 'We'll restore these unsung heroes to their rightful place'

Siddiq Ahmed was a member of Force K6, an Indian Regiment of mule handlers in World War 2

Also on board the USS West Virginia was George Bland, 19, who alongside Doris was one of the 1,000 black sailors among the fleet at Pearl Harbor, all working below deck.

He chafed at his treatment at the hands of the white officers and as his son Frank says in the documentary, 'He couldn't breathe without someone saying, 'Hey, n******, do this. Pick up that.'

Yet when the ship was attacked, George risked his life to help pull men out of the fires and recalled later being haunted by the sight of flesh falling off people's bodies.

When his daughter-in-law wondered how he could help those who'd insulted him, he responded, 'These were God's children. It broke my heart that I couldn't save them.'

The series also shines a spotlight on the 761st Tank Battalion  aka the Black Panthers  the first African-American armoured unit to see combat in the US Army.

Their efforts during the Battle of the Bulge, the bloodiest US battle of the war, proved pivotal to Europe's liberation from the Nazis.

Yet prior to seeing action, there was little faith in their ability to acquit themselves in battle. An astonishing 1925 report entitled The Use of Negro Manpower In War asserted that 'the cranial cavity of the Negro is smaller than the white.'

And it added, 'An opinion held by practically all officers is that the Negro is a rank coward in the dark.'

'They said we couldn't use tanks,' said Staff Sgt Johnnie Stevens of the 761st after the war.

'We had to prove to the world we could do anything that anybody else could do.' And they did exactly that. In November 1944, tasked with liberating the French town of Vic-sur-Seille, they drove the Germans out within hours.

Their reputation grew, and as historian Professor Yohuru Williams explains, 'Their white counterparts wanted the 761st attached to their unit because they'd heard about the proficiency of these fearsome fighters.'

Despite the hostility these soldiers faced, many African-Americans stationed in Britain remarked on how well they were treated. 'The kind of reception they got in Great Britain really filled their souls,' says Professor Yvonne Latty of Temple University. 'It empowered them.'

Back home it was a different story. Pearl Harbor hero George Bland was thrown off a bus while on leave in North Carolina in 1944, after refusing to move to the back to make way for two white German PoWs.

As social historian Professor Matthew Delmont remarks, 'One of the great ironies of the war was that you had the world's greatest democracy, the US, fighting against the world's worst racist, Adolf Hitler, yet we had the same kind of racial ideologies.'

Of the countless stories of World War II heroes recounted over the decades, those featured in the documentary have largely gone unheard. But as Professor Latty says of the men of colour who fought for freedom, 'Their stories deserve to be elevated and not erased.'

Erased: WWII's Heroes Of Colour begins on Monday at 8pm on National Geographic.
Blake Lively has posed for new photos while promoting her Betty Booze line.

In one image she had a low cut strapless black top as she dabbed her lips with a white linen napkin.

In another she has on a white top with a keyhole cutout on her chest.

The wife of Ryan Reynolds recently announced Betty Booze is now being sold nationally.

This comes after she rolled up her sleeves this week to work with Michelin-starred chef, Daniel Boulud.

Blake Lively has posed for new photos while promoting her Betty Booze line. In one image she had a low cut strapless black top as she dabbed her lips with a white linen napkin

In another she has on a white top with a keyhole cutout on her chest

The 36-year-old actress has curated her own omakase box, oji Box by Betty B at Bouluds JojiBox. It is an extension of the chefs Michelin-starred Omakase restaurant.

For this collaboration, the celeb-curated box will be paired with one of Betty Boozes flavors, the Sparkling Tequila with Lime Shiso.

Joji Box by Betty B consists of 'fresh sushi pieces handpicked by Blake herself and carefully paired to complement the flavors of her Booze cocktail,' the press release said.

'Been keeping this news under my hat for a while. @BettyBooze now available nationwide. Thank you @danielboulud for making all my tiny chef dreams come true,' wrote Blake - who was seen in her new trailer for It Ends With Us - on Instagram.

Shot in Bouluds eponymous Restaurant DANIEL kitchen, Lively is seen bustling about in the kitchen.

She had on a white chef's jacket with her hair up and gold earrings on.

'She was cooking up a meal full of only the freshest ingredients to create a dish worthy of the renowned chefs palette,' the release shared.

Lively rolled up her sleeves this week to work with Michelin-starred chef, Daniel Boulud this week as she announced her beverage Berry Booze is available nationwide now

The 36-year-old actress has curated her own omakase box, oji Box by Betty B at Bouluds JojiBox. It is an extension of the chefs Michelin-starred Omakase restaurant

For this collaboration, the celeb-curated box will be paired with one of Betty Boozes flavors, the Sparkling Tequila with Lime Shiso. Joji Box by Betty B consists of 'fresh sushi pieces handpicked by Blake herself and carefully paired to complement the flavors of her Booze cocktail,' the press release said

The spot ends with Lively presenting her finished product to Boulud.

The chefs NYC properties will now also offer Betty Booze & Betty Buzz to consumers including Joji Box, Epiceries, and the Blue Box Cafe.

'The alliance is in celebration of Betty Boozes national distribution and showcases the brands continued growth and ability to appeal to culinary masterminds by collaborating with best in class partners that provide innovative, gourmet products,' the release added.

'Been keeping this news under my hat for a while. @BettyBooze now available nationwide. Thank you @danielboulud for making all my tiny chef dreams come true,' wrote Blake on Instagram

Shot in Bouluds eponymous Restaurant DANIEL kitchen, Lively is seen bustling about in the kitchen. She had on a white chef's jacket with her hair up and gold earrings on

This comes after the trailer for her highly-anticipated new romance film, It Ends With Us, was released.

Blake plays Lily Bloom, a woman beginning a passionate - and then abusive - relationship with Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni, 40) - before the return of her ex Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar, 32).

The film is based on the bestselling book by Colleen Hoover and is directed by Baldoni.

Blake's good friend Taylor Swift even lends her voice to the trailer - her 2020 song, My Tears Ricochet, serves as the soundtrack for the teaser.

The trailer begins with Lily meeting Ryle at her new flower shop, before the duo hit it off and strike up a romantic relationship.

Lively's highly-anticipated new romance film, It Ends With Us, was released last week

It doesn't take long for things to get steamy for Blake's character

The duo go on a date and it doesn't take long for things to get steamy.

'I want to see you again,' Ryle tells Lily. 'Now you see me,' she jokes.

'You know what I mean,' he replies.

But then a darker side of Ryle emerges.

During a tense conversation, Ryle is shown standing up and smashing an object into the floor.

'I'm so sorry,' he tenderly tells her afterwards.

But then, Atlas returns. Lily is shown running into him, as flashbacks of their relationship as kids flash before the screen.

'I still remember the day I saw you in the window,' Atlas muses.

Lily first meets Ryle Kincaid at her newly opened flower shop

They strike up a romantic relationship

Ryle displays his sculpted abs as he discards his clothing

But things take a toxic turn as Ryle's darker side emerges

'Yeah, we were just kids then,' Lily replies.

Noticing the man she is holding hands with, Atlas asks, 'Is that your guy?'

'Yeah. That's Ryle,' she replies.

Ryle seems suspicious of Lily as he asks her at one point, 'Do you love him?'

'I love you,' she assures him.

'That wasn't my question,' Ryle replies.

Lily poses a powerful question to Ryle: 'If one day you had a daughter, what would you say to her?

'She came to you and said the person she loved was hurting her? What would you say to her?'

Over voiceover, she muses, 'As hard as this choice is. We break the pattern. Or the pattern breaks us.'

It Ends With Us is set for release on August 9.
Teen Mom star Janelle Evans was recently granted a restraining order against her estranged husband David Eason.

And while Evans, 32, busies herself with filming the next season of the MTV franchise, Eason, 35, has decided to continue his fledgling rap career with the release of a new single.

Eason debuted the hip-hop track, titled My Year, with a live performance shared to YouTube and Instagram on Wednesday.

Perched behind the mic, the North Carolina native started the track by saying, 'It's supposed to be a country song. I didn't write country - I wrote some rap on this beat!'

He then launched into a rap, spitting, 'I step up on the mic and I do what's right / I let you all know I'm coming for that ass tonight.'

Former Teen Mom star David Eason released his new hip-hop track My Year this week

He continued, 'So get right with God / and don't be slipping / Get your boots strapped up / Get your mamas out the kitchen.'

Despite his best efforts, the former reality star was savaged by Teen Mom fans in the comments section, with one branding him 'Broke Malone'.

Another commented, 'This is the most unemployed sound I've ever heard.'

'Its like we're watching a terrible audition on American Idol!' joked one.

Eason released his first hip-hop single, Please Don't Make Me, back in October, with the track reaching over 100,000 views on YouTube.

After Evans filed for separation from her husband of nearly seven years, she and her three children were granted a restraining order against Eason, 35, according to The Sun.

The six-month domestic violence protective order requires Eason to surrender his firearms.

He dropped the rap track after his Teen Mom star wife Janelle Evans was granted a restraining order against him. (Pictured in 2019)

Eason debuted the hip-hop track with a live performance shared to YouTube and Instagram on Wednesday

Despite his best efforts, the former reality star was savaged by Teen Mom fans in the comments section, with one branding him 'Broke Malone'

Eason is pictured with No Flockin' hitmaker Kodak Black

Additionally, he is not allowed contact of any kind with Evans or her children, including posting about them on social media or visiting the kids' school.

Eason did not have any representation in the North Carolina courtroom after he asked for multiple continuances to obtain a lawyer.

The restraining order comes as Evans and Eason are involved in an active child custody case over their 7-year-old daughter Ensley Jolie.

Evans also shares son Jace Vaughn, 14, with ex Andrew Lewis, and 9-year-old son Kaiser Orion with ex Nathan Griffin.

The 16 & Pregnant alum filed for legal separation from Eason in February, citing his recent 'erratic behavior' and accusing him of 'substance abuse.'

Evans also referenced when Eason killed the family's French bulldog puppy Nugget in 2019, as well as his assault on Jace, after he was charged with child abuse for allegedly strangling the teenager in October.

Jace was placed in the custody of CPS and ultimately reunited with his father earlier this year after running away multiple time.

Evans revealed in February that CPS dismissed their case against her and Eason.

Last month, Evans announced that she was pulling her children out of class and homeschooling them for the rest of the year after she 'found out their school is not safe.'

The mother-of-three said she 'wouldn't go into detail about that,' adding: 'I want to keep them safe, I want to keep them at home, I want to keep my eye on them.'

After Evans filed for separation from her husband of nearly seven years, she and her three children were granted a restraining order against Eason

The MTV star has pulled her children out of school and is considering moving her family to Florida

Evans is reportedly considering moving from her native NC to Florida after she was 'touring two or three homes in the Central Florida area' earlier this month, according to TMZ.

The homes are close to where her Teen Mom co-star Briana DeJesus lives in Kissimmee.

Evans previously revealed that she's returning to the MTV franchise with an appearance in season two of The Next Chapter

'Yayyyy, I can finally say yes... I'm back!' wrote Evans on Instagram with a teaser, in which she declares, 'I think it'll be good to have a fresh start.'

Season two of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter premieres May 30 on MTV.
Bronte Schofield has been busted unleashing a foul-mouthed verbal tirade at another driver during a road rage incident. .

Footage of the moment was found on the lesser known second Instagram account the Married At First Sight bride, 29, shares with sister Kirra Schofield.

They pair filmed themselves driving down the road with Bronte behind the wheel.

Bronte began to shout obscenities at another driver trying to pass her.

The camera zoomed in on Kirra's face as she sat in the passenger seat while her older sister screamed: 'I'll f**king catch up to you c**t.'

A male driver can then be seen passing their car in his own vehicle as he looked over at the siblings.

Married At First Sight's Bronte Schofield has been busted unleashing a foul-mouthed verbal tirade at another driver during a road rage incident

Kirra panned the camera over to her sister, who hid her face beneath a cap pulled down low as she shouted: 'Don't f**king look at me. F**k you, you dumb dog.'

The Love Island star then turned the lens back to herself to show followers her shocked expression.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Bronte for comment.

Footage of the moment was found on the lesser known second Instagram account the Married At First Sight bride, 29, shares with sister Kirra Schofield

They pair filmed themselves driving down the road with Bronte behind the wheel. Bronte began to shout obscenities at another driver trying to pass her

Bronte's shocking outburst comes after it was revealed she was in talks to appear on this year's season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Australia.

The reality TV star, who was paired with controversial groom Harrison Boon on MAFS last year, was offered a 'five figure' sum to appear on the Channel Ten show, but rival Nine stopped negotiations due to Bronte's contractual agreement.

Nine's strict contract conditions clearly state that cast members are not allowed to appear on any other reality shows for 12 months.

Bronte's shocking outburst comes after it was revealed she was in talks to appear on this year's season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here ! Australia. Bronte, pictured left and Kirra is pictured right

Sources close to Bronte said the bride is 'super angry and p***ed off' about the decision, especially since Domenica Calarco entered the South African jungle on I'm A Celeb last year, less than 12 months after appearing on MAFS in 2022.

'She considered going full rogue and appearing on the show, but was worried it wasn't going to be a good look and Channel Nine would legally come after her,' a source told Daily Mail Australia.

Bronte told Daily Mail Australia that I'm A Celebrity wasn't the only show Nine prevented her appearing on.

'They wanted me to do that and Celebrity Amazing Race with my sister Kirra, but that was due to her contract [with Love Island Australia],' she explained.
Tom Hiddleston and Zawe Ashton looked as besotted as ever on Thursday evening, as they attended the press night performance of Romeo & Juliet at at The Duke Of York's Theatre in London.

The actor, 43, and his fiancee, 39, held hands as they posed on the red carpet together, sharing a look of love.

Tom looked typically handsome in a smart navy blue suit, which he paired with a simple plain T-shirt and shiny dress shoes.

While Zawe exuded sophistication in a white satin smock-style gown, with long draped sleeves.

For an added daring touch to the elegant look, her dress was adorned with a line drawing of a naked female body.

Tom Hiddleston and Zawe Ashton looked as besotted as ever on Thursday evening, as they attended the press night performance of Romeo & Juliet at at The Duke Of York's Theatre in London

The actor, 43, and his fiancee, 39, held hands as they posed on the red carpet together, sharing a look of love

Tom looked typically handsome in a smart navy blue suit, which he paired with a simple plain T-shirt and shiny dress shoes

The actress toted a box-shaped cream handbag and sported a pair of matching T-bar high heels.

The couple showed their support for their fellow Marvel star Tom Holland, who stars as Romeo in the Jamie Lloyd production.

The 27-year-old famously plays the current iteration of Spider-Man, starring alongside Tom's Loki in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

While Zawe also entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe last year, playing villain Dar-Benn in The Marvels, opposite Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson.

The latest adaptation of Romeo & Juliet - which stars Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet - has received positive initial reactions.

The lucky attendees of the first week of previews singled out the lead stars as 'amazing' and 'superb casting'.

And spilling the beans about what audiences can expect, many teased that the production was 'violent' and 'creative' with 'unexpected humour' and 'lots of kissing'.

The play marks Holland's first return to the stage after his West End debut in 2008, when he played the lead role in Billy Elliot the Musical at 12 years old.

While Zawe exuded sophistication in a white satin smock-style gown, with long draped sleeves

For an added daring touch to the elegant look, her dress was adorned with a line drawing of a naked female body

The actress toted a box-shaped cream handbag and sported a pair of matching T-bar high heels, while Tom gallantly carried her train

Speaking about his casting, director Jamie said: 'Tom Holland is one of the greatest, most exciting young actors in the world. It is an honour to welcome him back to the West End.'

The play also stars Freema Agyeman (Nurse), Michael Balogun (Friar), Tomiwa Edun (Capulet), Mia Jerome (Montague), Daniel Quinn-Toye (Paris), Ray Sesay (Tybalt), Nima Taleghani (Benvolio), Joshua-Alexander Williams (Mercutio), and Callum Heinrich and Kody Mortimer (Camera Operators).

The production is set to run for 12 weeks until August 3, before it will reportedly transfer to Broadway later this year.

Zawe and Tom began dating in 2019 and got engaged in June 2022, going on to welcome their first child that October.

Tom recently opened up about fatherhood during an appearance at the Miami Film Festival last month.

While hitting the red carpet, the star was asked about the impact that becoming a father has had on his life.

He gushed: 'Its just changed everything. It changed the center of my life completely. Theres a before and an after, and Im happy to be living in the after.'

The couple showed their support for their fellow Marvel star Tom Holland, who stars as Romeo in the Jamie Lloyd production (pictured)

The latest adaptation of Romeo & Juliet - which stars Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet - has received positive initial reactions
By Ko Dong-hwan

Frozen gimbap and Buldak spicy noodles, which have been spearheading the countrys food exports since last year, were served to diplomatic envoys here and heads of the countrys biggest conglomerates who attended a presidential event for the countrys small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), Thursday, according to the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Korea Federation of SMEs (KBIZ), Friday.

Frozen gimbap made by Allgot and Samyang Foods signature instant noodles were served as part of the dinner for the event that was hosted jointly by the ministry and KBIZ at the presidential office in central Seoul.

Ambassadors from 12 countries including Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait, and the chairmen of Samsung, LG, POSCO, Hanwha, HD Hyundai and Shinsegae groups tasted the foods. The countrys 11 ministers and representatives of local SMEs here also participated in the event that recognized and rewarded SMEs in diverse industries for their outstanding exports.

Allgot first signaled the global rise of gimbap last year when its frozen gimbap exported to the United States stirred the local food market and began selling out. The SME based in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, had to expand its pipeline to meet the rising demand at major U.S. retail supermarket chains including Trader Joe's.

The popularity of Allgots gimbap, sold under the label Baba Gimbap, spread to Korea and prompted major retail chains here like E-Mart to introduce the products.

Were currently talking to companies in Australia and Japan looking to buy our gimbap, said an Allgot official who attended the event with the company CEO Lee Ho-jin. We must expand our manufacturing capacity fast, as the demand from the U.S. and domestic retail firms is already pushing us to work around the clock.

Buldak spicy noodles were the main contributor to Samyangs sales in the first quarter of this year. Samyang America registered $56.5 million in sales, up 209.8 percent from the previous year, with the products available at major U.S. retail chains including Walmart and Costco. Samyang Foods Shanghai in China registered 500 million yuan ($68.9 million), up 194 percent from the previous year.

Thanks to Buldaks globally growing presence, Samyangs overseas sales during the first quarter accounted for 75 percent of its overall sales, up from 64 percent last year. The companys operating profit for the period reached 80.1 billion won ($58.5 million), up 235 percent from the previous year.

At the 35th annual event, KBIZ Chairman Kim Ki-mun invited President Yoon Suk Yeol to visit KBIZs office in Seoul and discuss further improvements to the countrys regulations to support SMEs with stronger exports.
Michael Richards was seen for the first time since revealing a secret battle with prostate cancer and reflecting on his 2006 racist tirade in his upcoming memoir Entrances and Exits.

The Seinfeld alum, 74, was spotted enjoying a stroll with wife Beth Skipp in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

Dressed in a casually chic outfit featuring an olive green hoodie and matching blazer, the Emmy winner appeared in high spirits walking alongside his partner of over a decade, with whom he shares 14-year-old son Antonio.

The gorgeous actress, known for her roles in Prime and ER, modeled an all-black ensemble for the sunny jaunt.

The couple's outing comes only hours after it was revealed Richards was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of 2018.

Michael Richards was seen for the first time since revealing a secret battle with prostate cancer and reflecting on his 2006 racist tirade in his upcoming memoir Entrances and Exits

The actor detailed finding out he had stage 1 prostate cancer in an excerpt of his memoir, obtained by People, after a routine checkup showed high PSA levels - candidly revealing that he 'would have been dead' had he not undergone surgery to remove his prostate.

'I thought, "Well, this is my time. I'm ready to go,"' he told the outlet of his initial reaction to the news. 'But then my son came to mind just a few seconds later and I heard myself saying, "I've got a 9-year-old and I'd like to be around for him. Is there any way I can get a little more life going?"'

After undergoing a biopsy, Richards said his doctor recommended immediate surgery to remove the entire prostate.

'It had to be contained quickly,' the California native stated. 'I had to go for the full surgery. If I hadn't, I probably would have been dead in about eight months.'

The near-death experience inspired him to release his memoir, which he said made him do a 'full review' of his life.

'I had over 40 journals I'd kept over the years,' Richards told the outlet. 'I'm turning 75, so maybe wanting to do that is something that comes with being my age.'

While embarking on the journey of penning his own life story, the performer said he 'wanted to connect' with his feelings and memories.

Ultimately, he joked that he was 'surprised' by 'how much' he 'was able to remember.'

The Seinfeld alum, 74, was spotted enjoying a stroll with wife Beth Skipp in Los Angeles on Wednesday

Richards pictured with his wife Beth in 2010

In addition to 15-year-old son Antonio, whom he shares with Skipp, Richards has a daughter, named Sophia (seen in 1996)

Richards did not hold back in the memoir and even wrote about his decision to stay out of the public eye following his racist rant at the Laugh Factory in 2006.

'I was immediately sorry the moment I said it onstage,' Richards told People of his use of the N-word while firing back at hecklers during one of his stand-up sets. 'My anger was all over the place and it came through hard and fast.'

He continued: 'Anger is quite a force. But it happened. Rather than run from it, I dove into the deep end and tried to learn from it. It hasnt been easy. Crisis managers wanted me to do damage control. But as far as I was concerned, the damage was inside of me.'

He noted that he's spent the past 17 years in 'deep analysis' to 'figure out where all the anger was coming from.'

Richards said that he believes his rage stemmed from his own insecurities and fears of not being accepted or wanted.

While speaking of the incident in 2006, Richards insisted he is 'not racist' and has 'nothing against Black people.'

'The man who told me I wasnt funny had just said what Id been saying to myself for a while. I felt put down. I wanted to put him down,' he explained.

Even while starring as Cosmo Kramer on Seinfeld, Richards said he 'couldnt connect to the joy of being an artist.'

The 74-year-old actor detailed finding out he had stage 1 prostate cancer during the summer of 2018 in an excerpt of his book after a routine checkup showed high PSA levels, obtained by People , which comes out on June 4 (seen left in 1994 with his Seinfeld costars)

'It had to be contained quickly,' the California native stated. 'I had to go for the full surgery. If I hadn't, I probably would have been dead in about eight months' (seen in 2014)

'I was a good character actor, but I was comfortable being the character, not in being me,' he reflected.

His insecurities even had him turn down 'the offer of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame' because he 'didnt feel deserving.'

'I said no to hosting Saturday Night Live twice because I didnt feel good enough. I was never really satisfied with my Seinfeld performance. Fame magnified my insecurities,' the actor admitted.

His memoir, Entrances and Exits, comes out on June 4.
Gabrielle Epstein left her American podcast co-host completely baffled when she tried to teach her 'crude' Australian slang.

The Australian Playboy model, 29, who is now based in Los Angeles, gave Mia Malkova an insight into some iconic Aussie sayings on their Out of Bed podcast.

Gabby left Mia baffled when she asked her to guess what the slang phrase 'I'm not here to f**k spiders' means.

Mia admitted: 'Never heard it before,' prompting Gabby to explain: 'It means I'm not here to f**k around or half-ass it.'

A confused Mia then asked: 'How do you get to spiders? Why spiders?'

Gabrielle Epstein left her American podcast co-host completely baffled when she tried to teach her 'crude' Australian slang

To which Gabby hilariously replied: 'I mean you can substitute a different animal if you want.'

Their production team then clarified: 'It's crude Australian sarcasm at its bluntest.'

Prompting Gabby to joke: 'Crude Australian sarcasm at its bluntest is literally me in a nutshell!'

Her followers were quick to take to the comments section to comment on the famous Aussie saying.

They wrote: 'The most underrated and my personal fave of all the Aussie sayings!';

The Australian Playboy model, 29, who is now based in Los Angeles, confused her friend Mia Malkova hen she asked her to guess what the slang phrase 'I'm not here to f**k spiders' means

'Guy at my job before told me he's not here to box kangaroos and stormed out and everyone around was confused.'

It comes after Gabrielle hit back at body-shaming trolls who cruelly branded her as 'too skinny' by urging them to 'unfollow' her.

In recent snaps shared to Instagram, she showed off her figure in a black two-piece, which she styled with a pendant necklace and a wide-brimmed beige cowboy hat.

However, she was quickly hit by a slew of cruel comments from body-shaming trolls who left unkind messages about her appearance.

It comes after Gabrielle hit back at body-shaming trolls who cruelly branded her as 'too skinny' by urging them to 'unfollow' her

Gabby was quick to hit back at the 'rough' comments as she urged the trolls to just 'unfollow' her Instagram page rather than leaving nasty messages on her post.

Slamming the comments, she wrote: 'Boy the body comments are rough. I can suggest just scrolling or unfollowing if you feel that strongly about it?'

She was quickly flooded by messages of support from her fans as they urged her to ignore the trolls.

They wrote: 'Don't give a matter, u are absolutely stunning'; 'Absolutely gorgeous'; 'These comments are disgusting! You are beautiful!'
Alexa PenaVega and her husband Carlos PenaVega made their first public appearance since the tragic stillbirth of their daughter.

One month since their devastating loss and one week since she shared an emotional social media update, the couple attended the premiere of their new movie Mr. Manhattan on Wednesday.

The Spy Kids star, 35, and the Big Time Rush alum 34, flashed smiles on the red carpet at the Kentucky Theater in Lexington, Kentucky to celebrate the premiere.

The longtime couple will both star in the new movie, which premieres on Thursday and will be available to stream on Great American Pure Flix.

Their red carpet appearance marks one month since they announced the tragic news of their fourth child's stillbirth.

Alexa PenaVega returned to the red carpet for her first public appearance alongside husband Carlos PenaVega since the stillbirth of their daughter

For the screening, Alexa looked casual-chic and spring-ready in a black, floral-patterned jumpsuit and gold strappy heels.

At her side, Carlos looked effortlessly stylish in a black T-shirt, brown jeans and a light-wash denim jacket.

He also sported gray and white checkered sneakers and a silver chain as he joined his wife at the screening and Q&A onstage.

At the event, they joined their co-stars  Maximo Masefield, Melodie Rose Romano and David Barrera  on the red carpet.

The couple and their on-screen family also brought in co-star Nicholas Velez for another group photo.

The pair also appeared to be in bright spirits as they joined their on-screen family for a photo with filmmaker Andrea Nasfell, film producer Brady Nasfell, as well as Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott outside of the venue.

The group were later all seen onstage after the movie screening to talk about their experience working together.

Alexa and Carlos were animatedly speaking with castmates and audience members as they made their first red carpet appearance since they suffered a devastating loss a month ago.

One month since their devastating loss and one week since she shared an emotional social media update, the couple attended the screening of their new movie Mr. Manhattan on Wednesday

For the screening, Alexa looked casual-chic and spring-ready in a black, floral-patterned jumpsuit and gold strappy heels

The longtime couple will both star in the new movie, which premieres on Thursday and will be available to stream on Great American Pure Flix. At the event, they joined their co-stars  Maximo Masefield, Melodie Rose Romano and David Barrera  on the red carpet

The couple and their on-screen family also brought in co-star Nicholas Velez for another group photo

The pair also appeared to be in bright spirits as they joined their on-screen family for a photo with filmmaker Andrea Nasfell, film producer Brady Nasfell as well as Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott outside of the venue

The group were later all seen onstage after the movie screening to talk about their experience working together

Alexa and Carlos were animatedly speaking with their castmates and audience members as they made their first red carpet appearance since they suffered a devastating loss a month ago

According to the synopsis, the story follows Mason Bradley, 'an ambitious attorney,' who 'struggles to balance his career and the demands of fatherhood after becoming caretaker to his niece and nephew.'

After he suddenly and unexpectedly becomes the sole guardian of his late brother's kids, he is then 'forced to reevaluate his priorities and lost faith.'

Alexa plays his ex-fiance Dani.

Beginning with her guest appearance on his Big Time Rush television series in 2013, the longtime couple have worked on nearly ten filming projects together.

The pair filmed their latest project together before they loss their daughter due to a heartbreaking stillbirth.

Recently, the couple revealed in an interview with Cross Map that Mr. Manhattan is meaningful to them because like they've had to do in their real lives, their characters learn to lean on their faith when life doesn't make sense.

'I feel like these movies are always important for people to see, but specifically right now,' Alexa said. 'I just feel like we're in such a time where people feel very disheartened. They may feel a little hopeless. And what I love about this movie is it goes a little deeper into showing what that walk looks like.'

Alexa and Carlos married in January 2014 and share sons Ocean, seven, and Kingston, four, as well as daughter Rio, three.

Earlier this month, she used her Instagram platform to share an update after their fourth child's devastating stillbirth.

She uploaded a video thanking her fans for their 'kind words and encouraging prayers.'

She began the clip by predicting she was 'most likely gonna cry' while speaking to her audience of 1.6 million.

PenaVega called the loss of their fourth child the 'most traumatic thing' they've ever experienced.

'I don't think I've experienced anything quite like this, and I hope to never experience anything like this again,' she stated in the recording.

'Losing Indy was very hard and right after losing her, my health declined a lot and nobody could figure out what was wrong.'

Alexa PenaVega used her Instagram platform this week to share an update after her daughter's devastating stillbirth

The 35-year-old actress, known for her role in Spy Kids, uploaded a video thanking her fans for their 'kind words and encouraging prayers'

Alexa added, 'It was a very hard season for all of us to navigate.'

Despite the family's great loss, the mother-of-three emphasized that she felt a 'crazy' sense of peace.

'God has really met us in this place between pain and peace,' she noted before elaborating about how her daughter's passing 'transformed [her] completely.'

The ordeal strengthened the family-of-five, according to the star.

'Our family has never been stronger. Our faith has never been stronger [and] our marriage has never been stronger,' she opened up.

They announced the stillbirth of their fourth child in a joint Instagram post in mid April.

'After a beautiful and peaceful delivery our daughter "Indy" was born at rest,' they stated.

'This little girl has already changed our lives in so many ways. She was absolutely beautiful. And looked just like daddy. Dark hair and all.'

Alexa and Carlos announced the stillbirth of their fourth child in a joint Instagram post in mid April

Alexa and husband Carlos PenaVega announced they were expecting their fourth child together last fall

Alexa and her spouse Carlos, 34, married in 2014 and share son Ocean, seven, son Kingston, four, and daughter Rio, three

The couple previously revealed they were expecting their fourth child together in November 2023.

'There are never the right words to say when it comes to loss,' they wrote on a plain black background in white text when they shared news of their baby's death.

'It has been a painful journey,' the pair wrote. 'But in the pain we have found peace. God continues to comfort and hold us in his arms.'

The couple went on to thank their community for their prayers, which they added have 'been so sustaining in this difficult season.'
Disgraced TV producer Eric Weinberg will stand trial over multiple allegations of sexual assault, a Los Angeles County judge ruled Tuesday as per Variety and the NYT.

The judge came to the decision after days of testimony from Weinberg's alleged victims, who said they feared for their lives during the alleged assaults that occurred between 2014 and 2019.

Weinberg  who allegedly presented himself as a photographer  is accused of luring women that he'd met in public and on dating apps/modeling websites to his Los Feliz home to sexually assault them.

He is charged with 28 counts of rape and sexual battery. It was originally 32 counts but four were dropped  one for insufficient evidence and three due to expired statute of limitations.

Weinberg has pleaded not guilty and will be arraigned in June. If convicted, he faces more than 100 years in prison.

Disgraced TV producer Eric Weinberg will stand trial over multiple allegations of sexual assault, a Los Angeles County judge ruled Tuesday as per Variety and the NYT; seen in October 2022

Weinberg, one of the most prominent producers in the TV sector, produced several television shows over the course of his career, including Scrubs and American Dad.

Thus, his first arrest in July 2022 sent shockwaves throughout the industry, as the LA District Attorney's office revealed some of the accusations leveled against him.

In 2014, the office said, Weinberg told two separate women that he was a photographer, invited them to his home, and sexually assaulted them.

The District Attorney said that in 2017, Weinberg repeated the ruse on another woman. He was also accused of sexually assaulting two women in separate incidents in 2018 and 2019, according to the office's criminal complaint.

Detectives at the time added that additional unidentified victims were also likely, and that the producer's illicit behavior could go as far back as the early 1990s.

Weinberg's bail was subsequently set at an eye-watering $3.5million, which he promptly paid and was allowed back on the street - during which time the DA's office continued to build its case against the once respected TV writer.

The DA's office further revealed in a release that prior to that arrest, Weinberg had twice been 'investigated by the LAPD on suspicion of sexual assault, booking records and statements from the LAPD show.' At least one woman warned about the producer's alleged predatory behavior in a Facebook group.

Officials at the time urged anyone with relevant information to their case come forward - to which dozens of possible victims reportedly complied, with each incident reviewed for potential charging.

Roughly three months later in October 2022, Weinberg was again arrested - roughly a week after District Attorney George Gascon announced 18 charges against him  though he will now face 28 counts.

His alleged crimes included 18 felony counts of rape, oral copulation, forcible sexual penetration, sexual battery by restraint, false imprisonment by use of violence, and attempted forcible penetration with a foreign object.

Notoriously soft on crime, Gascon at the time remarked on how the producer's reign of terror went unchecked for likely more than a decade, and lamented at how Weinberg could use the vast fortune he amassed during that time to stay on the streets as officials gather evidence for trial.

Weinberg, at the time, posted a $5million bond and was again released, but was eventually denied bail during a court appearance later in the month - and remained incarcerated until Wednesday's proceedings.

Weinberg  who allegedly presented himself as a photographer  is accused of luring women that he'd met in public and on dating apps/modeling websites to his Los Feliz home to sexually assault them; Weinberg's July 2022 mugshot

The judge came to the decision after days of testimony from Weinberg's alleged victims, who said they feared for their lives during the alleged assaults that occurred between 2014 and 2019; Weinberg seen in October 2022

Weinberg, one of the most prominent producers in the TV sector, produced several television shows over the course of his career, including Scrubs and American Dad

'In this particular case, we have a man who believed that he could do great harm and yet remain untouchable, and he did for many years,' Gascon said, adding, 'As we anticipated, he used his incredible wealth to bail out.'

The DA added how Weinberg was previously investigated several times by the city's police department, but that his office lacked the necessary evidence to go through with a case.

But after receiving dozens of tips on a hotline created to aid the case, prosecutors finally achieved the means to pursue the case, bolstered by harrowing accounts offered by the five unnamed women.

One of those victims was a 22-year-old he met in a coffee shop in 2014. She said he lured her back to his home then forced her to perform oral sex on him, pinning her down and choking her 'so hard that I thought I was going to pass out.'

The woman further alleged that while taking photos, Weinberg grabbed her, forced to perform oral sex, choked her and then raped her, according to court documents filed by Gascon's office.

Court records showed that three other of Weinberg's accusers testified against him during the producer's 2020 divorce.

An LAPD spokesperson described how Weinberg would target women in public places before engaging in his predatory practices.

'Weinberg was a Hollywood producer/writer and appears to have targeted women in grocery stores, coffee shops, and other public places,' the department said.

He 'would approach the women who were in their 20-30s, under the guise of being a photographer and would set up photo shoots with them.

'Once the women were in his residence, he would sexually assault them during the photo shoot.'

He is charged with 28 counts of rape and sexual battery. It was originally 32 counts but four were dropped  one for insufficient evidence and three due to expired statute of limitations

Weinberg has pleaded not guilty and will be arraigned in June. If convicted, he faces more than 100 years in prison; seen in court in October 2022

He was first arrested in July 2022 and named a 'serial sexual assault suspect' in connection to allegations made between 2012 and 2019

Weinberg (not pictured) served as co-executive producer on nearly 100 episodes of Scrubs between 2000 and 2006. He was nominated for five Emmy awards - two for his work on 'Scrubs'

Deputy District Attorney Marlene Martinez, as per the LA Times, called Weinberg 'a danger to all females' during an October 2022 court proceeding.

'He goes up to any young woman and uses his status as a writer-producer to lure them in. He is a danger to all females,' she said.

He served as co-executive producer on nearly 100 episodes of Scrubs between 2000 and 2006. He also producing and writing credits on several other hit shows, including 'Anger Management,' 'Men at Work,' and 'Veronica's Closet.'

He was nominated for five Emmy awards - two for his work on 'Scrubs,' three as part of Bill Maher's old ABC talk show 'Politically Incorrect,' -
The moment a woman was told her husband had an account on cheating website Ashley Madison on live radio has resurfaced in a new Netflix documentary.

Ashley Madison promoted itself as a discrete site for spouses to get tangled up in steamy affairs, but in 2015, the dating service was hacked and the name of every member was shared online.

A bombshell Netflix docuseries, titled Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies and Scandal, has revisited the headline-making scandal and explored the aftermath of the shock leak.

During the three-part series, the devastating moment a woman was told her husband had an account on Ashley Madison live on Australian radio has been revisited.

The humiliating radio segment from 2015 was replayed in the second episode before a remark was made about how 'public shaming' amid the scandal went 'way too far'.

The moment a woman was told her husband had an account on controversial cheating website Ashley Madison has resurfaced in the new Netflix documentary

Tech reporter Claire Brownell said: 'This practice, in terms of the witch hunt, in terms of accusing people, trying to publicly shame them, I think went way, way too far.'

The shock radio reveal saw a woman, given the alias 'Jo', discover that her husband had an account on Ashley Madison live on NOVA's radio show Fitzy and Wippa.

She had called in during a segment on suspicious partners when hosts Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald, Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli dropped the bombshell, prompting her to hang up.

The radio duo had came across the hack website that leaked users of the adulterous dating site and entered Jo's husband's details into the system on her request.

'We're putting him in right now and his details have revealed that he's actually on the website Jo,' Fitzy told the shocked woman.

In 2015, a woman discovered live on Nova's Fitzy and Wippa radio show (hosts are pictured) that her husband had an account on controversial cheating website Ashley Madison

'Are you freaking kidding me?' the woman responded, seemingly surprised by the news.

'These websites are disgusting,' she said before abruptly hanging up.

Fitzy and Wippa were instantly regretful and questioned whether they had made the right decision in revealing the man's indecency.

'I don't know if we should have done that,' Wippa said. 'That hasn't left me with a good feeling. What a horrible situation to be in.'

The duo then urged Jo, who was no longer on the line, not to jump to any conclusions, saying her husband may have 'signed up and regretted it'.

The humiliating radio segment was replayed in the series before a remark from tech reporter Claire Brownell (pictured) was made about how 'public shaming' went 'way too far'

Controversial dating site Ashley Madison was launched in 2001 and was designed for married men and women looking to have affairs to connect with one another.

The explosive Netflix docuseries has delved into the website's hacking scandal and saw former employees of the website admit security was 'put on the back burner'.

Before the infamous hack, which ruined marriages, the website promised anonymity and privacy for its 37million users - whose names were all later leaked in the hack.

CEO Noel Biderman boasted about the company's commitment to protecting its members in interviews, and the website contained a slew of badges that claimed it had earned awards for its impressive cybersecurity.

But now, ex Ashley Madison staffers have confessed that it was all a tactic used to get more customers and admitted the awards were made up.

Ashley Madison promoted itself as a discrete site for spouses to get tangled up in affairs, but in 2015, the dating service was hacked and the name of every member was shared online

They claimed the website didn't take any extra measures to protect its customers and said a service which allowed users to pay extra to have their accounts deleted was just a cash grab.

'Security was something that came up quite frequently. We talked about it, we were worried about it, but it just kept falling to the back burner,' Amjit Jethani, former Ashley Madison director of product, dished in the docuseries.

He said the focus was more on 'keeping up with the growth' than protecting customers, and that many of the staffers 'understood' that a hack was a possibility.

'It was very well understood that if any of the web properties were hacked, it would have been almost catastrophic. The hope was that it wouldn't happen,' he stated.

A Netflix docuseries has delved into the scandal and saw former employees admit security was 'put on the back burner' (pictured: Ashley Madison's vice president of sales Evan Back)

At one point in the series, an old clip of CEO Noel praising the company's security measures in an interview was shown.

'Ultimately, our servers sit in a remote location so I think we're untouchable,' he said. 'We do everything we can to protect privacy.'

Evan Back, who served as Ashley Madison's vice president of sales for nearly 10 years, called Noel a 'snake oil salesman'.

'We know [what he said] isn't true. The promise of security and anonymity and guaranteed safety was just something we said. It wasn't something we did,' he admitted.

'For people to run a company based on security and keeping clients secret but to have very little security, you're pushing it to the limit.

'Security was something that came up quite frequently. We talked about it, we were worried about it, but it just kept falling to the back burner,' Amjit Jethani, director of product, said

'It was like, how far can I go before someone's going to come in and hack us? It was like gambling with people's lives.'

At the bottom of Ashley Madison's website was a picture of a medal and the words 'Trusted Security Award.' But according to journalist Claire Brownell, that was 'totally made up.'

'Somebody at the site must have made it using Photoshop or something,' she theorized.

'We had all kinds of medals on our website, which gave the impression that we were rock-solid, airtight,' Evan said as he admitted they were a 'complete misrepresentation.'
Tammy Hembrow and partner Matt Zukowski have been accused of overshadowing Anna McEvoy and her partner Michael Staples' Greek wedding this week.

The fitness influencer, 30, has shared a slew of loved-up snaps to Instagram since touching down in Corfu with fiance Zukowski, 28, who co-hosts a podcast with McEvoy, 32.

Hembrow was also seen wearing numerous bridal white dresses and skirts as she packed on the PDA with the Love Island star, sharing very few snaps with the actual bride-to-be.

'I was wondering how Anna felt about having to invite Tammy because she has been posting a lot of content while she's been in Corfu. Almost overshadowing it,' Outspoken the Podcast hosts Amy, Sophie and Kate Taeuber said.

The identical triplets mentioned a photo of Hembrow and Zukowski which showed the pair kissing in white outfits as they stood beside McEvoy and Staples, who also packed on the PDA in matching cream and white ensembles.

Tammy Hembrow (pictured) and partner Matt Zukowski have been accused of overshadowing Anna McEvoy and her partner Michael Staples' Greek wedding this week

'It kind of felt like a bit "me, me, me" like "we're getting married next, this is all about us",' they said.

The trio went on to add it was similar to a scene in the classic 90s sitcom Friends when characters Monica and Phoebe 'were competing over who the hottest couple was'.

Hembrow's very affectionate display and romantic posts in Greece comes after her ex Matt Poole moved on with a new woman almost two years after their split.

The fitness influencer, 30, has shared a slew of loved-up snaps to Instagram since touching down in Corfu with fiance Zukowski, 28, who co-hosts a podcast with McEvoy, 32, middle left with partner Michael Staples

Hembrow was also seen wearing numerous bridal white dresses and skirts as she packed on the PDA with the Love Island star, sharing very few snaps with the actual bride-to-be

The former Ironman was spotted jetting out of Gold Coast Airport on Thursday with girlfriend Annelyse Oatway and his daughter Posy to celebrate his birthday.

Poole looked smitten as he walked alongside his new love, who carried his baby girl as she slept ahead of their flight to Sydney.

Oatway, who has over 10,000 Instagram followers, is very private online and little is known about her.

'I was wondering how Anna felt about having to invite Tammy because she has been posting a lot of content while she's been in Corfu. Almost overshadowing it,' Outspoken the Podcast hosts Amy, Sophie and Kate Taeuber said

Hembrow's very affectionate display and romantic posts in Greece comes after her ex Matt Poole moved on with a new woman almost two years after their split

She is originally from the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Poole announced his split from his former fiancee Hembrow, who he shares Posy with, in December 2022 and was most recently linked to Bella Cicero.

Meanwhile, Hembrow got engaged to her new partner Zukowski in December last year during a holiday in the Maldives.

Hembrow and Zukowski had only been dating three months before they took their romance to the next step.
EastEnders star Lucy Benjamin has spoken about her split from her husband Richard Taggart for the first time.

The soap star separated from Richard in August 2023 after 17 years of marriage, with sources claiming at the time their relationship had 'run its course.'

Now, Lucy - who has daughters Bessie, 17, and Rosie, 13  with Richard has told The Mirror that they have remained good friends after their amicable split, and still enjoy nights out together.

She said: I'm still great friends with Rich and we go out together. It's brilliant.

'We'll be a team forever. We've got kids together, so that will always be. But it's on to the next chapter, really, and we'll see what that brings.'

EastEnders star Lucy Benjamin has spoken about her split from her husband Richard Taggart for the first time

The soap actress and her partner reportedly split at the end of August, last year with insiders citing that their relationship had ultimately 'run its course'.

A source told The Sun: 'Lucy and Richard tried to make it work but ultimately decided it was best they split up.

'It's been rough for them both in recent months but hopefully they can now start looking forward to the future. Their children will always be their number one priority.'

Lucy and Richard met on a flight to Dubai and they sparked a conversation when he introduced himself to her, after recognising her from television.

Detailing their first meeting, Lucy previously said: 'He was sat next to me and while I was reading a book, he tapped me on the shoulder and said, "This must be strange for you because I know a lot about you and you don't know anything about me, but my name's Richard and I'm going to Dubai".

'Fortunately, I found it very funny and we didn't stop chatting. We were engaged within six weeks  and married within nine months.'

Lucy was seven weeks pregnant with their first child when they tied the knot, saying: 'I was a bit pushy but you've got to get on with it.'

Lucy is set to star in the upcoming film Look To The Light alongside Holby City and Coronation Street star Mark Moraghan, as pushy mother Elaine Reynolds, whose son Eddie's relationship ends in tragedy when he signs up for a reality show.

The soap star separated from Richard in August 2023 after 17 years of marriage, with sources claiming at the time their relationship had 'run its course' (pictured in 2010)

Now, Lucy - who has daughters Bessie, 17, and Rosie, 13  with Richard has said that they have remained good friends after their amicable split, and still enjoy nights out together

The actress said that her own experience raising two daughters is a far cry from her on-screen character, explaining: 'I make them appreciate the value of money because I think its important that things arent handed to kids on a plate.'

Lucy's ex-boyfriend's include her former co-star Steve McFadden, whose character she shot during her soap exit in 2003 after playing the character for four years.

During a break from EastEnders, Lucy appeared in the 2009 series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, but was the first to be voted out.

She has also had roles in Casualty, Holby City and New Tricks, and last year briefly reprised her iconic soap role as Lisa Fowler, who at the time was struggling with a gambling addiction.
Tammy Hembrow's new fiance Matt Zukowski pressed his podcast co-host Anna McEvoy over some very intimate questions about her upcoming wedding.

The former Love Island star, who is currently engaged to fitness influencer Tammy, sat down on his Where's Your Head At podcast to chat with his fellow reality TV co-star Anna about all things wedding prep.

Anna revealed on her podcast that she is already legally married to husband Michael Staples, but will be celebrating with a lavish ceremony in Corfu, Greece.

But the details of her marital status didn't seem to be important to Matt, who asked very intimate questions about how Anna and Michael 'consummated' their marriage and what type of lingerie she was wearing.

'Did you wear some on the day or no? Just whatever you had on?' he asked Anna, 31.

Tammy Hembrow's new fiance Matt Zukowski (left) pressed his podcast co-host Anna McEvoy (right) over some very intimate questions about her wedding. Matt sat down on his Where's Your Head At podcast to chat with Anna about all things wedding prep

'Just whatever I had on,' she answered.

'You tucked it to the side?' he then asked, referring to her underwear, to which Anna shouted, 'Ew, Matt!' before quickly wrapping up the podcast.

Anna noted that she had some nice white lingerie from Simone Perele for their Greece wedding.

Prior to that, Matt, 28, asked about Anna's first time having sex with Michael as husband and wife.

Anna revealed on her podcast that she is already legally married to Michael Staples. But her marital status didn't seem to be important to Matt, who asked questions about how Anna and Michael 'consummated' their marriage and what type of lingerie she was wearing

'It was hot,' Anna said. 'We got straight to it, no time to take off clothes.'

'Nice!' Matt added.

Elsewhere on the podcast, Anna revealed she'd officially wed Michael back home in Australia because the celebrant she chose for the wedding in Greece is not officially recognised.

'On the 28th of April, Michael and I went to the registry office with both of our parents in Melbourne. Our dads were the witnesses. It was actually a very special moment,' she said.

Anna went on to detail the process of getting married in the registry office in Melbourne.

Prior to that, Matt, 28, asked about Anna's first time having sex with Michael as husband and wife

'It's a beautiful old building,' she said.

The cost of the marriage registry is $500 for either a 6-person or 50-person room.

According to the influencer, the couple was made to stand in front of their parents and say 'I do' in unison.

'It was so awkward. Imagine your parents and your in-laws just staring at you and you and your partner are just standing there holding hands,' Anna said.

Anna said that because the celebrant she chose for the wedding in Greece is not officially recognised, she decided to certify her union with Michael back home in Australia before they left. Pictured: Anna and Michael Staples

Anna reflected that the entire experience at the registry office was overly formal and 'too serious.'

'It just felt too serious, it was giving me the ick a little bit,' she said, before telling Matt that she and Michael could only bring themselves to do a 'peck' for the kiss at the end of the ceremony.

Earlier in the episode, Anna said that they were already in Greece for the 'official wedding.'

Anna revealed she'd was getting married on the Greek island of Corfu early last year, after getting engaged to her fiance Michael Staples in October 2022.

Their wedding venue is part of a fully renovated nine-bedroom estate, where the bride and groom's family and close friends will be staying.

'We put a deposit down on a wedding venue in Corfu, but Michael and I have both never been to Corfu,' she said on her podcast in 2023.

The couple acknowledged a lot of people wouldn't be able to attend their wedding due to the distance.

So an intimate engagement party for family and friends was held in April.

Anna and Michael are planning a large affair with up to 90 guests so those who can't fly to Greece will be able to celebrate with them.

Anna said she had done a lot of research on Greece, and thought there would be heaps of suitable venues, but only a few caught her eye.

She rose to fame on season two of Love Island Australia, and won the show with Josh Packham but they split in December 2020.
Kiefer Sutherland has revealed he's turned to an unlikely British favourite to maintain his vocal chords, as he reflected on the challenges of maintaining his physique.

The actor and musician, 57, admitted he's finding it 'harder' to keep himself in shape as he gets older, but still has a tried and tested 'light workout' regime.

Kiefer also confessed that he's become accustomed to a Greggs sausage roll after being introduced to the snack by his bandmate, quipping that the greasy snack can help to maintain his vocal chords.

He told The Mirror: 'Grease is not a good word, but there's enough around a Greggs sausage roll to lubricate your voice quite well, and quite nicely. I've found it helpful on more than one occasion. We go there so much.'

Kiefer, who is set to star in two action films, Stone Cold Fox and Sierra Madre, admitted that after reaching his 50s he's found it more difficult to keep in shape.

Kiefer Sutherland has revealed he's turned to an unlikely British favourite to maintain his vocal chords, as he reflected on the challenges of maintaining his physique

The actor confessed that he's become accustomed to a Greggs sausage roll, quipping that the greasy snack can help to maintain his vocal chords (stock image)

'As you get older, you know, every 10 years it gets a little harder for the body to define muscle. It gets harder for the body to process... your metabolism changes. You have to make adjustments,' he said.

'I hate the feeling of the beginning of a workout. And I love the feeling when it's done. I run a lot, and that's kind of the foundation of everything. I've got my version of a lightweight workout there that hopefully keeps you trimmer  light weights, heavy rotation, things like that.'

Kiefer originally rose to fame in the 1980s with roles including the cult film Stand By Me, before having a resurgence in the FOX series 24.

In recent years he's kickstarted a music career with The Kiefer Sutherland Band, releasing their debut album in 2016, and two more followed in 2019 and 2022.

The actor previously shared that becoming a father aged 20 put him on the straight and narrow.

In an interview with The Radio Times, Kiefer reflected on the early days of Hollywood and how having children saved him from decisions which could have been 'very damaging for me'.

He also spoke about the devastating losses of his late A-list friends and how taking a break in the 1980s when his career took a dip 'was the smartest thing.'

Kiefer became a household name aged 20 as bully Ace Merrill in the coming-of-age movie Stand By Me, opposite River Phoenix, who tragically died of a drug overdose aged just 23.

Kiefer, who is set to star in two action films, Stone Cold Fox and Sierra Madre, admitted that after reaching his 50s he's found it more difficult to keep in shape

In recent years he's kickstarted a music career with The Kiefer Sutherland Band, releasing their debut album in 2016, and two more followed in 2019 and 2022

Speaking of his 'heartbreaking' death and other Hollywood greats Keifer was close to over the years, he says: 'I have lost friends over the years and I dont think anyone whos lost someone doesnt go, "Wow, ten minutes either way and that could have been me".

'He (River Phoenix) had so much promise and was such a nice young manI think about it all the time.Theres a very dangerous, reckless abandon that is connected to youth. And if youre pushing the edge of trying to experience life, theres a chance that youll make a mistake  and those mistakes can be deadly.'

Keifer admits there are times in life where he has 'done the wrong thing' and he thinks about Phoenix 'all the time'.

The actor has been charged with drink driving four times over the years, he was sentenced to 48 days in jail in 2007 after failing a sobriety test.

'Im not a moron, I know the difference between right and wrong. Its just sometimes Ive done the wrong thing,' he says.

But the Designated Survivor star, who has one daughter Sarah and one stepdaughter from his second marriage, to Camelia Kath, credits his family for keeping him grounded.

The actor previously shared that becoming a father aged 20 to his daughter Sarah put him on the straight and narrow

Keifer says having children at a such a young age made his 'get away from a bunch of other things that I think could have been very damaging for me'.

The actor is now set to star in Rabbit Hole playing John Weir, who is framed for murder by powerful forces with the ability to influence and control populations.

And he says taking a brief break in his career in the 1980s was the best thing for his longevity in the industry.

'I didnt trot all over my own name, I just waited for something really special to come along. And it did  24,' he says.
Dame Prue Leith has admitted that she almost didn't apply to replace Mary Berry on the Great British Bake Off as she feared she wouldn't tick the 'diversity boxes'.

The restaurateur, 84, has been a judge on the cooking competition since she replaced Mary Berry 2016.

However, this very nearly wasn't the case as Prue reveals she initially completely dismissed the idea.

It was revealed that the women had known each other since the 1970s when a photo of them with broadcaster Jack de Manio (1914-1988) was unearthed.

Prue told the Sliding Doors podcast with Jennie Becker: 'I just jumped at it. I had begun to think about it, once I knew Mary Berry was not going to go on. I thought: "Oh, Id love that job", but I dismissed the thought.

Dame Prue Leith, 84, has admitted that she almost didn't apply to replace Mary Berry, 89, on the Great British Bake Off as she feared she wouldn't tick the 'diversity boxes' (pictured: Prue and co-judge Paul Hollywood, 58, on Bake Off)

The restaurateur has been a judge on the cooking competition since she replaced Mary Berry 2016 (both pictured in 2017)

Prue (centre) and Mary (left) have known each other since at least the 1970s (pictured with broadcaster Jack de Manio [1914-1988])

'I thought: "Theyll get someone younger, someone more . . . probably a young Asian chef or something, that would tick all the diversity boxes and stuff. But no, they chose me."

'If you think about my past career, Id had 11 years sitting at the Great British Menu as a judge and every plate has about ten tastes on it - it makes Bake Off look really simple.

'With cake, with one spoonful, you can get the icing, the filling and the crumb. I knew all the top chefs, I had a Michelin restaurant of my own so I knew that level of cooking very well.'

The connection to baking specialist Maty extends to Prue's own husband, fashion designer John Playfair, 77, who frequently uses it to his advantage while commenting on his wife's cooking.

'I wont bake cakes since we are both too fat, so he taunts me with, "I wish Id married Mary Berry,"' she said.

At the time of Prue's arrival, fans, already disgruntled by the move from BBC to Channel 4 and the loss of Mary, Sue Perkins, and Mel Giedroyc, did not warm to her.

Prue told The Times in February: 'Oh, I hate my voice. Its too posh. When I replaced Mary Berry on Bake Off someone on Twitter said: "Oh no, not that posh b**ch", and I sort of agreed with her. But yes, Americans seem to like it.'

Outside of cooking, Prue is Chancellor of Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, and her son, Danny Kruger, is a Conservative MP.

The Sliding Doors podcast with Jennie Becker is available to listen to here.

The Great British Bake Off returns with its fifteenth series in September 2024 with Prue, her co-judge Paul Hollywood, and presenters Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond all returning.
China's military carried out a second day of war games around Taiwan on Friday, with drills to test its ability to "seize power" and control key areas in exercises Beijing has said were launched to punish Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te.

The two days of drills in the Taiwan Strait and around groups of Taiwan-controlled islands near the Chinese coast, which a Taiwanese official said included the mock bombing of foreign vessels, started just three days after Lai took office. Taiwan has condemned China's actions.

China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and denounces Lai as a "separatist." It strongly criticized his inauguration speech on Monday, in which he urged Beijing to stop its threats and said the two sides of the strait were "not subordinate to each other."

The Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said in a brief statement that its forces on Friday continued with their drills, dubbed "Joint Sword - 2024A."

The exercises are to "test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks and occupy key areas," it said.

China has never ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.

A senior Taiwan security official told Reuters that several Chinese bombers conducted mock attacks on foreign vessels near the eastern end of the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines, practicing how to seize "total control" of areas west of the first island chain.

The first island chain refers to the area that runs from Japan through Taiwan, the Philippines and on to Borneo, enclosing China's coastal seas.

The official, speaking anonymously given the sensitivity of the situation, said several Chinese coast guard boats also conduced "harassment" drills off Taiwan's east coast, including mock inspections of civilian ships.

China's Coast Guard said in a brief statement it had conducted "law enforcement drills" in waters east of Taiwan on Friday, focused on training on verification and identification, warning and repulsion.

The Chinese theater command showed an animated video on Friday on its WeChat social media account of missiles being launched at Taiwan from the ground, air and sea, which then slam into the cities of Taipei, Kaohsiung and Hualien in balls of flame.

"Sacred weapons to kill independence," read words in red, written in the traditional Chinese characters Taiwan uses, at the end of animation.

Taiwan's armed forces have mobilized to monitor and shadow Chinese forces.

Taiwan's defense ministry on Friday published pictures of F-16s, armed with live missiles, patrolling the skies.

It also showed pictures of Chinese coast guard vessels, which are taking part in the drills, and Chinese Jiangdao-class corvettes, though it did not say exactly where the images were taken.

The ministry said that as of 6 a.m. (2200GMT) on Friday, it had detected 49 Chinese military aircraft, 19 navy and seven coast guard ships. Of the aircraft, 28 crossed the strait's median line, which once served as an unofficial barrier though China says it does not recognise it.

The closest Chinese aircraft got to Taiwan's coast was 40 nautical miles (74 km) from the northern city, and navy base, of Keelung, according to a map the ministry provided.

Talks rebuffed

Lai has repeatedly offered talks with China but has been rebuffed. He says only Taiwan's people can decide their future, and rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims.

Taiwan is well used to China's military threats, and the latest drills have caused no undue alarm on the island, with life carrying on as normal.

Taiwanese media have covered the drills, but also given a lot of time to ongoing drama about contested parliament reforms that have brought thousands of people onto the streets to protest.

On China's highly regulated Weibo social media site, "Eastern Theatre" was the top searched item, with most of the comments supporting the drills. Another hot topic was "the return of Taiwan."

The defeated Republic of China government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists, who founded the People's Republic of China.

The Republic of China remains Taiwan's official name, though only 12 countries formally recognize it diplomatically, mostly small, developing nations such as Palau and Guatemala.

In a Friday commentary, the official newspaper of China's ruling Communist Party, the People's Daily, said it was a shared belief among Chinese people that the territory of the nation cannot be divided, the country cannot be thrown into chaos and its people cannot be separated.

The recent actions of the "leader of the Taiwan region" will only accelerate the "destruction" of pro-independence forces in Taiwan, it wrote.

Analysts, regional diplomats and senior Taiwan officials noted the scale of the drills so far were smaller than the similar exercises in 2022 and were widely anticipated by Taiwanese and foreign officials, but they still raised the risk of accidents or miscalculations.

They said Beijing was sending a finely calibrated warning that Chinese forces could attempt a swift blockade if it wanted to bring Lai to heel. (Reuters)
A woman named April Lampros claims Diddy sexually assaulted her on numerous occasions decades back in New York City.

The woman, who publicly identified herself as April Lampros, said that the assaults took place in New York City during the 1990s and early 2000s, according to court docs obtained by Dailymail.com.

Lampros said Diddy attacked her on multiple occasions throughout the years, once directly involving his late ex-girlfriend Kim Porter in 1996, and on another occasion during the timeframe he was seeing Jennifer Lopez.

Lampros said one assault from Diddy occurred in late 2000/early 2001 when he was 'involved in a very public relationship with Jennifer Lopez' and that subsequent media reports from February 2001 indicated the one-time couple parted ways due to Diddy's infidelity.

Lampros said that Combs penis was 'adolescently in both length and width' and that he was circumcised. (According to Cambridge dictionary, the word adolescent is defined 'in a way that is typical of a young person who is developing into an adult.')

A woman named April Lampros says Diddy sexually assaulted her on numerous occasions decades back in New York City. Pictured in an evidence photo submitted into court records in NY

A woman named April Lampros says Diddy sexually assaulted her on numerous occasions decades back in New York City; he is pictured in 2023 in Atlanta

The latest allegation of sex assault against the musical artist comes days after the embattled hip-hop mogul was sued by a former model who claims he drugged and sexually assaulted her in 2003.

It comes less than a week after Diddy said he was 'truly sorry' he beat his ex-girlfriend Cassie in a hotel hallway in 2016 after CNN released video of the attack.

Lampros said in court docs that she was attending the Fashion Institute of Technology when Diddy volunteered to be a mentor for her, according to the court docs.

Lampros told the court that during a 1995 meeting at the SoHo bar, he got her very intoxicated, and then took her back to a room he had at the Millennium Hotel.

Lampros said that in the encounter - before which Diddy gave her 'gifts and flowers' - she felt sick and like 'the walls were closing in on her.'

Lampros said she was conscious but not able to physically prevent Diddy from sexually assaulting her, and the next day was 'nude, sore and confused.'

Lampros told the court Diddy contacted her months later in an effort to romantically pursue her, the outlet reported.

Lampros was described as a 'hopeful yet naive college student' who took Diddy 'at his word and believed that the first rape was a possible mulligan and decided to give him a second chance.'

Lampros said one assault from Diddy occurred in early 2001 when he was "involved in a very public relationship with Jennifer Lopez. Lopez and Diddy pictured at the MTV VMA Awards in 2000 at NYC's Radio City Music Hall

Diddy used his entree into to exclusive music industry events to lure Lampros into seeing him again, her lawyers said in the suit.

Lampros told the court Diddy again turned sexually predatory in his behavior, as he forced her to engage in oral sex with him while in a parking garage headed to dinner. A garage attendant was witness to the exchange, but that did not deter Diddy from continuing with the assault, Lampros said in court docs.

Lampros told the court that she subsequently spurned further invitations to get together with Diddy, who 'was not good at accepting rejection' and 'became angry, threatening and forceful' in his communications with her.

Diddy 'developed this mobster persona' and 'began calling Lampros incessantly and would often call her just to say, "If anyone is in your apartment, I will beat your a** and theirs,"' Lampros told the court.

Lampros said she was put under personal and professional duress by Diddy, who 'would also threaten to blacklist her in the industry if she tried to mess with him in any way.'

Lampros told the court that in a 1996 incident, Diddy 'ordered Lampros to his Manhattan apartment' where his late ex-girlfriend Kim Porter, who died in November of 2018 at 47, 'and two other people were present.'

Lampros said Diddy forced both her and Porter to take the drug ecstasy and 'forced the pill down their throats to ensure the pills were swallowed.'

Diddy's 'hands were so far down Lampros throat she gagged,' Lampros said in court docs, adding that Diddy 'even checked under their tongues.'

Lampros said Diddy involved his late ex-girlfriend Kim Porter in one of his assaults. She was pictured in June of 2018 in LA, five months before her death in November of that year at 47

Diddy 'then demanded' Porter and Lampros 'have sexual intercourse,' Lampros said in court docs, noting that while she 'vocally opposed this idea,' Diddy 'quickly reminded her that she had no control over the situation as he could make her lose her job.'

Lampros said in court docs that as she and Porter engaged in sex acts, Diddy 'sat close by, masturbating for some time before pushing Kim Porter off Lampros ... and raping her.'

Lampros 'felt disgusted, ashamed, and embarrassed and couldnt believe what had happened,' she said in court docs.

Lampros said in court docs she was fired from a job she had at a SoHo bar named Sliver years later at Porter's request, noting that Porter told the owner she could have the venue closed with Diddy's influence.

'Porter was very resentful of Lampros after she was forced to engage in sex acts with' her in 1996, lawyers for Lampros told the court, and 'was enraged when she saw her' working at the bar.

Lampros's legal team said in court docs that Porter two days later 'called her employer and complained to the manager,' that Lampros 'attempted to poison her.'

Porter told the restaurant manager 'that her boyfriend was Sean Combs and could have the business shut down if he did not immediately terminate Lampros,' who was fired shortly thereafter.

Lampros told the court that when she told Diddy about what happened, he was remorseless 'that she was out of a job' and 'laughed about it.'

Diddy was pictured in May of 1995 in NYC, the year the alleged assaults began in the suit filed by Lampros

Diddy and Porter were pictured in Apple Valley, California in 1996. Lampros said Porter was 'resentful' of the incident Diddy presided over, and had her fired from a bar job years later

Lampros told the court that she parted ways for good with Diddy in 1998, and that they would run into one another in New York City years later, around late 2000/early 2001, while he was dating Lopez.

Lampros said after multiple attempts on his behalf, she allowed Diddy to visit her at her apartment as she 'figured it was during the day and doubted that he would try to harm her.'

In that instance, Lampros told the court, Diddy 'began apologizing for his past behaviors' and 'started telling her that he was a changed man ... then showered her with compliments, telling her how good she looked and kept reminiscing about their prior sex life. He then began dropping hints about them having sex.'

Lampros told the court that after she rejected his advances, he 'violently grabbed her and forced himself onto her' but she was able to fend him off in that instance.

Lampros is also claiming in the suit that last year, she 'was told that' Diddy 'apparently recorded them having sex without her knowing and showed it to multiple people' by a man whose name she did not identify in the legal docs.

Lampros said that she was at an event last year with a date, and the unidentified man told her date 'that he should reconsider dating her because he personally saw a video of her and Sean Combs having sex ... during the summer of 1997.'

Lampros is accusing Diddy of sexual assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress in the legal docs, also naming the music companies Arista Records, Bad Boy Records and Sony Music Entertainment for enabling him to continue with his conduct.

Lampros, who is requesting a trial by jury in the case, filed the lawsuit electronically, and it has not yet been approved by County Clerk officials in New York, who would subsequently assign it a case number.

Crystal McKinney (pictured) filed a lawsuit against the rapper, who is currently facing four other sexual misconduct lawsuits, alleging that she was assaulted at his studio

Earlier this week, model Crystal McKinney filed a lawsuit against the rapper - who is currently facing a sex trafficking probe and multiple other sexual misconduct lawsuits - alleging that she was assaulted at his studio, as per TMZ.

McKinney says she was 22 when she was invited to a Men's Fashion Week event at Cipriani Downtown in New York City, where she met Diddy, who then asked her to go back to his studio.

After they arrived, Diddy and several of his friends were drinking Hennessy and smoking joints. Crystal claims that when she took a hit from one of the 'very powerful' joints, she felt as if she was floating, and believes it was laced with another drug.

McKinney claims Diddy then demanded that she come with him to the bathroom, where she alleges he forced her to perform oral sex on him. She said while in the bathroom Diddy began kissing her and then shoved her head down to his crotch before telling her to 'suck it.'

When she refused, she claims he pushed her head down and forced oral sex. Afterwards she began to walk away but felt dizzy and at some point lost consciousness.

McKinney says she then woke up in a taxi, and realized she had been sexually assaulted. It's not clear whether she is referencing the alleged incident in the bathroom, or another sexual assault that could have occurred while she was passed out.

McKinney, who is seeking unspecified damages in the suit, says she was then blackballed from the modeling industry, and went into a severe depression before attempting to commit suicide in 2004.

Crystal also states that after seeing Diddy's ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, and other women file lawsuits against the disgraced hip hop mogul she 'knew she had a moral obligation to speak up.'

On Sunday, Diddy broke his silence after shocking video of him beating up his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura surfaced last week

Diddy is currently involved in an ongoing federal sex trafficking investigation in addition to multiple lawsuits accusing him of sexual misconduct.

On Sunday Diddy broke his silence after shocking video of him beating up his former girlfriend Cassie surfaced last week.

He took to Instagram to apologize, saying: 'I hit rock bottom, but I make no excuses.' Looking into the camera, Diddy said: 'So difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, sometimes you got to do that. I was f***ed up.

'I mean I hit rock bottom, but I make no excuses, my behavior in that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in that video, I'm disgusted.

'I was disgusted then when I did it, I am disgusted now. I went and I sought out professional help, I got into going to therapy, going to rehab.

'Had to ask God for his mercy and grace. I'm so sorry. But I am committed to be a better man each and every day. I'm not asking for forgiveness, I'm truly sorry.'

Sources said Diddy went to rehab following the 2016 incident and continues to seek both therapy and spiritual work.

The shocking surveillance footage of Diddy violently attacking his ex-girlfriend in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016 emerged last week.

In the video Cassie is seen trying to flee in an elevator. Diddy, after chasing her down the hall, grabbed her by the back of the hoodie and threw her to the ground

The video, obtained by CNN, shows the rapper shirtless with a towel wrapped around his waist, chasing Cassie down the hall at the InterContinental Hotel in Century City.

As she tried to get into an elevator, he grabbed her by the back of the head and slammed her to the ground.

He then kicked her as she lay on the floor motionless, before grabbing the two designer bags she'd tried to escape with. Diddy stood over her, kicked her again, and then dragged her back to their room by the hoodie.

Cassie claimed in a since-settled lawsuit that Diddy had paid the same hotel $50,000 for the footage after the attack.

Speaking on Sunday, Cassie's attorney Meredith Firetog, said: 'Combs most recent statement is more about himself than the many people he has hurt.

'When Cassie and multiple other women came forward, he denied everything and suggested that his victims were looking for a payday.

'That he was only compelled to "apologize" once his repeated denials were proven false shows his pathetic desperation, and no one will be swayed by his disingenuous words.'

It comes after the LA County District Attorney said they would not be able to prosecute Diddy for the assault as the statute of limitations had passed.

Cassie sued Combs last year alleging rape and a range of other offenses. They settled out of court in November for an undisclosed amount; seen in 2016

California's statute of limitations for simple assault is one year, though aggravated assault is three years. Based on the timeline, neither charge could be levied against Diddy.

Cassie sued Diddy last year alleging rape and a range of other offenses. They settled out of court in November for an undisclosed amount.

The pair dated between 2007 and 2018, after meeting in 2006 when she was 19 and he was 37.

The footage of the March 2016 incident comes just two months after Combs' homes in Miami and Los Angeles were raided by Homeland Security as part of a sex trafficking investigation.

He is also fighting lawsuits from other accusers who allege sexual misconduct and abuse.

In February, a music producer filed a lawsuit alleging Diddy coerced him to solicit prostitutes and pressured him to have sex with them.

Another of Diddy's accusers was a woman who said the rap producer raped her two decades ago when she was 17.

The Jane Doe claims that the rapper flew her to his New York studio in 2003 and plied her with 'copious amounts of drugs and alcohol.'

He and two pals then took turns violently raping the teen as she drifted in and out of consciousness, leaving her in so much pain that she could barely stand or remember how she got home, the complaint alleges.

Diddy immediately sent out a tweet denying the accusation and saying the all allegations made against him in recent days are from people 'looking for a quick payday'.

Diddy and his attorneys have denied all of the lawsuits allegations.

The investigation is continuing. Diddy has not been charged.

The rapper is among the most influential hip-hop producers and executives of the past three decades.

Formerly known as Puff Daddy, he built one of hip-hops biggest empires, blazing a trail with several entities attached to his famous name.

He is the founder of Bad Boy Records and a three-time Grammy winner who has worked with a slew of top-tier artists including Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, Usher, Lil Kim, Faith Evans and 112.
Australia's Next Top Model star Didier Cohen looked unrecognisable as he showed off his dramatic new look on Instagram.

The handsome model, 39, flaunted his buzzcut as he shared inspirational words to his fans on social media in an American accent.

In the clip, the Los Angeles-born star revealed his shaved head and showcased his strapping physique in a cropped singlet.

The new look was different from Didier's shoulder-length tresses has used to sport.

'Nobody's coming to save you. No teacher, no book, no person, no job, no bank account that's coming to save your life,' he told fans.

Australia's Next Top Model star Didier Cohen looked unrecognisable as he showed off his dramatic new look on Instagram. See here in a throwback photo

'Once that realisation comes there's no one coming to help, look at it as an empowering force that's like your life in your hands.'

Many fans praised him for sharing an inspiring post, with one writing: 'Hard lesson, but better to learn it sooner than later.'

'Huge shift in my life when I came to this realisation. Beautiful message. Thanks for sharing,' another said.

The handsome model, 39, flaunted his buzzcut as he shared inspirational words to his fans on social media in an American accent. Seen in the new post

Didier was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2018, after dealing with symptoms such as epilepsy, numbness, paralysis, fevers and bone pain since 2007.

Since receiving his diagnosis, Didier has used alternative therapies such as hyperbaric chamber treatment and IV drips for treatment.

He welcomed his first child with fiancee Chanel Wolf in December 2021, sharing a slew of photos when she arrived.

'Marigold Love Cohen. 12.15.21 7:11am My Golden Flower,' he wrote.

'Chanel Wolf you're the most incredible warrior woman. Our daughter is the luckiest girl to have a mother like you. We love you,' he added.
Bethenny Frankel enjoyed a Pretty Woman moment as she returned to a Chanel boutique wearing the brand head-to-toe, after previously being denied entry.

The former Real Housewives Of New York City star, 53, shared that she was doing an experiment to see if she would be let into the store in a more posh outfit.

It came just a day after she blasted a Chicago location of the French high-fashion house, claiming they didn't let her in while she was dressed in casual clothing, with a security guard telling her she didn't have an 'appointment.'

But on Thursday, Bethenny returned, and this time wearing a Chanel cardigan dress, with a matching quilted purse, oversized black sunglasses, Chanel earrings and a pearl-encrusted headband.

As a friend filmed her for a TikTok video, Bethenny was able to enter the store without any problem this time around.

Bethenny Frankel, 53, enjoyed a Pretty Woman moment as she returned to a Chanel boutique wearing the brand head-to-toe, after previously being denied entry

'I'm going into Chanel now dressed much differently than I was dressed yesterday. If they let me in because of how I look, Christmas is canceled,' she said at the start of the clip.

She then walked up to the store, where three security guards were standing outside.

'It's important that I mention that the three gentlemen outside (not present yesterday) were lovely,' she wrote in her caption.

Frankel was quickly granted entry to the store.

However, right after she was allowed in, she immediately turned around and exited the Chanel store.

'No problem today,' she quipped to her camera person, after leaving the boutique.

'Chanel field trip...' she wrote in a text overlay on the clip, shared to both her Instagram and TikTok.

Her fans were amused by the experiment, with many quoting Julia Roberts' character from the 1990 film Pretty Woman.

The former Real Housewives Of New York City star shared that she was doing an experiment to see if she would be let into the store in a more posh outfit

It came just a day after she blasted a Chicago location of the French high-fashion house, claiming they didn't let her in while she was dressed in casual clothing, with a security guard telling her she didn't have an 'appointment'

But on Thursday, Bethenny returned, and this time wearing a Chanel cardigan dress, with a matching quilted purse, oversized black sunglasses, Chanel earrings and a pearl headband

'I'm going into Chanel now dressed much differently than I was dressed yesterday. If they let me in because of how I look, Christmas is canceled,' she said at the start of the clip

As a friend filmed her for a TikTok video, Bethenny was able to enter the store without any problem this time around. 'No problem today,' she quipped to her camera person

In the movie Roberts returns to a posh boutique on Rodeo Drive a day after being treated dismissively by the sales staff, who judged her appearance.

One commentator wrote, 'Did you take the moment in and say "I was here yesterday and you wouldn't let me in. BIG MISTAKE, HUGE MISTAKE! I have go to shop now!" lol,' quoting an iconic line from the film.

'Giving Pretty Woman,' another added.

'The way you walked straight back out was  iconic ,' someone else praised her.

'I'm living for this social experiment omg.'

The day prior Bethenny unloaded on the fashion house, posting an impassioned video to her Instagram account describing how she had tried to do some shopping at the store but wasn't allowed in.

Bethenny  who reportedly split from her fiance Paul Bernon two months ago  noted she was also wearing casual clothes and carrying a 'basic-b**** purse, though it wasn't clear if her attire could have played an unspoken role in her being refused entry.

DailyMail.com has reached out to a representative for Chanel to comment.

Bethenny noted that she was visiting the Second City at the start of her clip, which she filmed on the street while wearing a simple white T-shirt with sunglasses perched on her raven tresses and gleaming diamond stud earrings.

She also shared a number of snaps showing off her stylish look

'It's important that I mention that the three gentlemen outside (not present yesterday) were lovely,' she wrote in her caption

The reality star joked that the guard she spoke to was barely willing to open the door, making a crack so small that '[the rat from Disney's] Ratatouille couldn't fit in there.'

'"Hello? Do you have an appointment?"' she recalled the man saying, and she compared him to the hulking Lurch from the Addams Family films.

'Im like, "No, I dont have an appointment. I have a credit card. I have a bag of Garretts popcorn, a basic b**** purse. Am I not allowed to come in at 3:54 on a Tuesday?" Evidently not,' she said.

Bethenny seethed at allegedly being 'treated like youre an interloper.'

'I didnt realize we werent allowed to walk into stores anymore. Gotta get a pap smear appointment and also to walk into Chanel. No big deal,' she added dismissively.

She had a more measured response in her post's caption, in which she said that 'security is critical' because 'crime is at an all-time high.'

In her caption, Bethenny added that she 'could easily call one of my salespeople and get on this [appointment] list.

'Thats besides the point. I was straight off a plane in a sweaty tshirt and not dolled up or looking wealthy,' she continued, seemingly suggesting that she might have had a different experience if she arrived in a luxurious outfit.

The day prior Bethenny unloaded on the fashion house, posting a video to her Instagram account describing how she had tried to do some shopping at the store but wasn't allowed in

In her caption, Bethenny added that she 'could easily call one of my salespeople and get on this [appointment] list'

'There are several ways to convey a message and this way was rudeness and elitist and exclusionary, which is also a crime,' she claimed. 'In business, first impressions are lasting.

'I would never want anyone to feel lesser than, particularly from a luxury brand making billions off of people buying into the hype. Chanel is a beautiful brand with timeless classic pieces,' she declared.

'Being kind to customers of all socioeconomic backgrounds is also timeless and classic.'

Ironically, Bethenny's previous Instagram post from her trip to the Windy City featured her in a dark blue denim off-the-shoulder dress while carrying a blue denim Chanel handbag, which would have cost several thousand dollars.
A new trailer for Broadway's Romeo + Juliet shows actors Rachel Zegler and Kit Connor as the iconic star-crossed lovers for the first time.

It was revealed last month that Zegler, 22, and Connor, 20, would make their Broadway debuts in a new adaptation of the Shakespeare tragedy directed by Sam Gold.

In the teaser released Wednesday, the co-stars showcase their palpable chemistry as they fall in love under the noses of their rivaling families.

Instead of fourteenth century Verona, the play appears to be set in early 2000s suburbia.

Connor's Romeo, clad in a black racing jacket and jeans, makes the walk to the Capulet home, where Zegler's Juliet is waiting and peaking out her bedroom window.

A new trailer for Broadway's Romeo + Juliet shows actors Rachel Zegler and Kit Connor as the iconic star-crossed lovers for the first time

In the teaser released Wednesday, the co-stars showcase their palpable chemistry as they fall in love under the noses of their rivaling families

Romeo rings the doorbell  that has a 'Capulet' nameplate below the buzzer  and is then filmed sitting side-by-side with Juliet on a dated couch in the home's living room.

Zegler's Juliet is clad in a Y2K-inspired blue halter top with her black bra exposed as she inches her hand towards Romeo's.

The scene cuts to Juliet's bedroom where viewers watch as the lovebirds begin to open up to each other.

Romeo tries on Juliet's sunglasses, they make funny faces in a bathroom mirror and they find themselves tangled up together in a pink-lit room in a fast-paced montage.

Romeo is then seen laying on Juliet's bed with his shirt off as she slowly makes her way over to him. He moves the hair out of her face as if he's about to lean in for a kiss.

The trailer then launches into another fun-filled montage that shows Romeo and Juliet running down her street before singing together in a bathtub full of stuffed animals.

It concludes with a close-up of Juliet resting her head on Romeo's chest as they lay together on the floor.

The description revealed that 'Fan Early Access Tickets' were made available starting Wednesday, May 22 at 10am EDT.

Instead of fourteenth century Verona, the play appears to be set in early 2000s suburbia

Zegler's Juliet is clad in a Y2K-inspired blue halter top with her black bra exposed and sweatpants

Connor's Romeo is seen wearing a racing jacket and jeans

The play will begin previews on September 26, 2024 at Circle in the Square Theatre.

In addition to marking the Broadway debuts of Zegler and Connor, the new production will also be the Broadway debut of musician and producer Jack Antonoff, 40  best known for being one of Taylor Swift's go-to producers  as the production will feature new music from him.

'With the presidential election coming up in November, I felt like making a show this fall that celebrates youth and hope, and unleashes the anger young people feel about the world they are inheriting,' director Sam Gold said in a statement.

The show's official synopsis indicates that it will take an edgier approach to Romeo And Juliet than more traditional productions.

'The youth are f***ed. Left to their own devices in their parents world of violent ends, an impulsive pair of star-crossed lovers hurtle towards their inescapable fate,' it reads. 'The intoxicating high of passion quickly descends into a brutal chaos that can only end one way.'

Gold is taking on Shakespeare's play, which was first published in 1597, after most recently helming an acclaimed production of Ibsen's An Enemy Of The People in an adaptation from Tony Awardnominee Amy Herzog.

The play has received particularly strong reviews for its cast, which is led by Succession's Jeremy Strong and The Sopranos and The White Lotus star Michael Imperioli.

Sonya Tayeh is also attached to the production to lead movement.

In one steamy scene. Romeo is seen laying on Juliet's bed with his shirt off as she slowly makes her way over to him

He moves the hair out of her face as if he's about to lean in for a kiss

The description revealed that 'Fan Early Access Tickets' were made available starting Wednesday, May 22 at 10am EDT

The play will begin previews on September 26, 2024 at Circle in the Square Theatre

Zegler hinted first at the announcement last month when she interrupted her Dior fashion show posts with an image of her with her face partially cropped as she flashed a peace sign.

'OK that's all. See you tomorrow (which could mean nothing),' she joked in the text.

After the announcement, she added on X (formerly Twitter): 'never beating the broadway debut allegations.'

Connor, a London native, posted the letter R (for Romeo) on Monday evening, while Zegler, who hails from New Jersey, posted the letter J (for Juliet), with interlocking halves of an addition sign on their posts.

Both tagged the posts from Verona, the location of the story, and added emoji captions of a heart and dagger, which led fans to speculate that they were working on the Shakespeare classic.

One fan, referencing Zegler's previous Golden Globe-winning performance as Maria in the 2021 Steven Spielberg film West Side Story, wrote, 'Rachel playing Juliet and Maria is so ridiculously iconic.'

That musical, which was conceived by Jerome Robbins with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by Arthur Laurents, adapted Romeo And Juliet for 1950s-era New York City.

Zegler in recent years has been seen in motion pictures including 2023's The Hunger Games: The Ballad Of Songbirds & Snakes, in which she played Lucy Gray Baird; 2023's Shazam! Fury Of The Gods as Anthea; and this year's throwback comedy Y2K as Laura.

She has a number of high-profile projects on the horizon, as she's slated to play Snow White in a 2025 live-action adaptation of Snow White, co-starring Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.

Rachel Zegler, 22, and Kit Connor, 20, will make their Broadway debuts in the title roles of Romeo + Juliet, a new adaptation of the immortal play from director Sam Gold, it was announced on Tuesday

Jack Antonoff, 40, the leader of Bleachers and one of Taylor Swift's go-to producers, will also make his Broadway debut by providing new music for the production; seen March 19 in London

Connor and Zegler sparked speculation that they would be starring in the production when they posted the respective letters R and J on their Instagram pages, leading fans to assume they would lead a production of Romeo And Juliet, which was confirmed with the announcement on Tuesday

Connor's career has been on the surge in recent years, as he plays the role of Nick Nelson on the Netflix romantic drama Heartstopper, opposite Joe Locke.

Connor has also been seen in films such as 2019's Rocketman and the 2018 Spielberg film Ready Player One.

He is slated to provide his vocal talents to the forthcoming DreamWorks Animation film The Wild Robot, costarring Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal and Stephanie Hsu.
Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg is currently in Sydney to film his upcoming crime thriller called Play Dirty.

And on Friday, radio star Jackie 'O' Henderson, 49, revealed on The Kyle and Jackie O Show the crew had blocked off an entire street in Sydney for filming.

'Residents in the Hills District in Sydney are a little confused at the moment, seeing houses all with Christmas lights lit up,' Jackie told co-host Kyle Sandilands.

'All the residents have signed an NDA and been paid not to say anything. They are filming Mark Wahlberg's new movie Play Dirty.'

Henderson added that homeowners were paid a minimum of $5,000 for the filming in the street and houses with Christmas lights attached got paid a whopping $10,000.

Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg is currently in Sydney to film his upcoming crime thriller called Play Dirty

A crew of over 200 people are said to be working on the film, which is based on the 1960s hardboiled Parker crime novels by Donald E. Westlake.

Wahlberg's new movie is helmed by Iron Man 3 director Shane Black and co-stars Dermot Mulroney and Thomas Jane.

Wahlberg, 52, was first spotted on the Sydney set of his upcoming Amazon crime thriller in March.

A crew has blocked off an entire street in the Hills District, Sydney for filming

The action man was seen filming scenes alongside jockeys and racehorses at Bankstown City Paceway.

He was spotted wielding a firearm while filming an intense action sequence with stunt performers and other cast members.

In one high intensity scene, a horse jockey was seen getting run over by a car on the racetrack.

Wahlberg, 52, was first spotted on the Sydney set of his upcoming Amazon crime thriller in March

Wahlberg sported a burgundy tracksuit for filming, with a black neck gaiter and a pair of sneakers.

It follows reports that another F45 gym in Sydney has gone into liquidation as the global Australian fitness chain backed by Wahlberg downsizes.

In February, F45 Training Alexandria in Sydney's inner south closed, a decade after opening in an area packed with high-rise apartments.

Members were emailed last month, directing them to another F45 gym at Rosebery, 3km away, as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission announced the liquidation.
Irina Shayk and her daughter Lea De Seine were spotted enjoying an outing in New York City with their charming little puppy.

Lea De Seine, six, whose father is Hollywood heartthrob Bradley Cooper, could be seen affectionately cradling her beloved pooch.

Meanwhile Irina, a 38-year-old Russian model, made sure to keep a firm grip on the dog's leash while it was nestled in Lea De Seine's arms.

The little girl got to take her turn at leash duty too, keeping a watchful eye on her pet as it scampered about on the sidewalk.

For her latest sighting, Irina cut a stylish figure in a trendily loose-fitted moss green trouser suit with its sleeves rolled up in light of the rising summer temperatures.

Irina Shayk and her daughter Lea De Seine were spotted enjoying an outing in New York City with their charming little puppy

Lea De Seine, six, whose father is Hollywood heartthrob Bradley Cooper , could be seen affectionately cradling her beloved pooch

Letting her silken curtains of dark hair cascade over her shoulders, Irina brought the look together with a green-tinted set of aviators.

Meanwhile her daughter sported shorts and a jacket from Lola and The Boys.

Irina and Bradley were first linked in 2015 before going public as a couple in 2016, welcoming their little girl in 2017 and then parting ways two years later.

Shortly after their breakup, TMZ reported they had decided to split custody and to both remain based in New York in order to make joint parenting easier.

In fact she and Bradley are such close co-parents that they have made sure to live just blocks apart in Greenwich Village in order to raise their daughter.

'He's a full-on, hands-on dad - no nanny,' Irina told Highsnobiety. 'Lea went on holiday with him for almost two weeks - I didn't call them once.'

In a recent interview with Elle, Irina explained that she and Bradley 'always find a way' to align their work schedules with their parenting responsibilities.

'Hes the best father Lea and I could dream of. It always works, but it always works because we make it work,' she gushed.

Irina, who hails from an industrial Soviet town on the foothills of the Urals, said she and Bradley hope to provide their daughter with an ordinary upbringing in spite of their celebrity, having both had 'normal backgrounds' themselves.

The little girl got to take her turn at leash duty too, keeping a watchful eye on her pet as it scampered about on the sidewalk

For her latest sighting, Irina cut a stylish figure in a trendily loose-fitted moss green trouser suit with its sleeves rolled up in light of the rising summer temperatures

Letting her silken curtains of dark hair cascade over her shoulders, Irina brought the look together with a green-tinted set of aviators

Bradley has been spotted since last October going on dates with none other than Irina's fellow international supermodel Gigi Hadid.

Meanwhile Irina boasts an A-list dating history including Tom Brady, Kanye West and Cristiano Ronaldo, and she is now claimed to have her eye on Tom Cruise.

Near the beginning of this year, Bradley gave an interview to the British Film Institute and talked about the glare of public scrutiny on his personal life.

'I definitely think I'm a private person,' he reflected. 'But you almost sort of have to give over to the fact that it's impossible to be private these days.'

The Hangover star acknowledged: 'So it's more about acceptance of the reality, instead of creating my own reality that doesn't exist.'
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This video is no longer available

Home and Away star Matt Evans has revealed the long-running soap will kill off one of its beloved characters.

The Channel Seven actor, 26, appeared on The Morning Show on Friday to share the plot twist in a very dramatic announcement.

The Voice Australia star remained coy about who exactly will get the cut next week, Matt insisted one unlucky character's days are numbered in Summer Bay.

Matt gave his ominous warning while staring directly into the camera after breakfast show hosts Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies asked about rumours of a character death.

'All I can say is next week a stranger will come into the Bay and someone will die,' he told viewers at home.

Home and Away star Matt Evans, 26, (pictured) revealed the long-running soap will kill off one of its beloved characters next week, when he appeared on The Morning Show

It's unclear which character fans will say goodbye to, but with so little clues being drip-fed to viewers at home, it seems anyone could be on the culling list.

It comes just a few days after it was revealed Home and Away is gearing up for a major shake up as new faces join the cast and fan favourites make unexpected exits.

With filming taking place approximately five to six months ahead, eagle-eyed viewers are already getting juicy sneak peeks of the upcoming drama.

Home and Away news page Back to the Bay has shared insights into the iconic soap's future.

The site reported that newcomers have been spotted on set, while one beloved character has been notably absent, sparking rumours about a possible departure.

Though he stayed mum about who exactly will get the cut, Matt insisted one unlucky character's days were numbered in Summer Bay. Pictured: Ray Meagher who plays Alf Stewart

Back to the Bay reported that Jacqui Purvis, who has played Felicity Newman for the past three years, was last seen on location in March.

'I know someone went to Palm Beach today and was told that she's overseas and not sure if (she's) coming back, indicating that she's leaving (or) left the show and no longer filming,' wrote one fan on the site.

No official confirmation has been made.

Elsewhere, Home and Away recently announced that a new bad boy, played by Joshua Orpin, is heading to the Bay.

The actor told The Daily Telegraph in March that fans should expect his arrival to ruffle some feathers in the seaside community.

'I can say he is a bit of a bad boy who comes into the show and stirs up some trouble among the Summer Bay locals... he is seemingly one thing on the surface but he has a great depth to him that I've had a lot of fun exploring,' he revealed.

Joshua has a number of credits to his name, including Preacher, Love Me, Upright and the US superhero series Titans.

Elsewhere, Hailey Pinto is expected to take on the role of Abigail Fowler, the sister of Eden Fowler (Stephanie Panozzo) and Levi Fowler (Tristan Gorey).

'All I can say is next week a stranger will come into the Bay and someone will die,' Matt said. Pictured: James Stewart and Ada Nicodemou who play couple Justin and Leah

Eagle-eyed fans have spotted Hailey filming what appeared to be an engagement celebration for Eden and Cash Newman (Nicholas Cartwright).

The fan page estimates that Hailey's character will be arriving on screens in the next three months.

Meanwhile, Kiwi actor Aaron Jeffery, 53, is set to join the show as James 'Jimmy' Fowler, Eden, Levi, and Abigail's father.

Aaron has appeared in McLeod's Daughters, Wentworth, and Water Rats and recently starred alongside Oscar nominee Toni Collette in the Netflix drama Pieces of Her.
Heidi Klum and her daughter Leni Olumi Klum looked incredible as they attended the amfAR Cannes Gala afterparty at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d'Antibes on Thursday.

The model, 50, and her lookalike daughter, 20, opted for matching outfits as they both wore tasselled dresses for the swanky bash.

German supermodel Heidi opted for a white midi dress which she paired with an elegant white blazer.

The America's Got Talent judge added height to her frame with a pair of sparkly open toe heels and complimented her outfit with a white clutch.

Leni effortlessly turned heads in a fuchsia strapless mini dress as she posed alongside her famous mother.

Heidi Klum and her daughter Leni Olumi Klum wore matching otufits as they attended the amfAR Cannes Gala afterparty at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d'Antibes on Thursday

Heidi opted for a white tasseled dress while her daughter wore a fuchsia mini dress

The young model boosted her frame with a pair of sheer heels while she accessorised with a diamond necklace.

Styling her brunette locks into a ponytail, Leni completed her look for the evening with a light palette of makeup.

Leni is the daughter of Heidi and her businessman ex Flavio Briatore, 73, but as he was based in London and she was in Los Angeles, they did not see each other.

TMZ first reported in 2018 that Leni and Flavio had reconnected with the help of her parents. Now it seems as if they see each other now and then.

Leni's siblings are Lou, 14, Johan, 17, and Henry, 18, whose father is musician Seal, 60. Seal adopted Leni in 2009 and they have stayed close to this day.

Heidi is now happily married to Tokio Hotel guitarist Tom Kaulitz.

Following on her mother's modelling footsteps, Leni has done campaigns for Dior and already landed her own magazine covers.

At the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles in March 2023, Heidi told People that she's 'very proud' of her daughter Leni.

The America's Got Talent judge added height to her frame with a pair of sparkly open toe heels and complimented her outfit with a white clutch

Heidi, Leni Olumi Klum, Mohammed Al Turki and Yasmine Sabri posed for a snap inside the event

She later gave a speech on stage

Heidi and Leni looked sensational as they walked the red carpet earlier in the evening

Following on her mother's modelling footsteps, Leni has done campaigns for Dior and already landed her own magazine covers

'I'm very proud of my daughter and her modeling,' said Klum. 'And she's studying at the same time, she's juggling already.'

Leni has been very successful in modeling already. She has done campaigns for Dior and already landed her own magazine covers.

At the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles in March 2023, Heidi told People that she's 'very proud' of her daughter Leni.

She said: 'I'm very proud of my daughter and her modeling. And she's studying at the same time, she's juggling already.'
Jennifer Connelly showcased her sense of style as she attended the presentation of Louis Vuitton's Cruise 2025 collection in Barcelona on Thursday.

The actress, 53, turned heads in a dark brown sleeveless leather jacket which she wore over a teal jumper with a high collar.

The Top Gun: Maverick star also wore a beige dress with an a-symmetric hemline and a pleated detail.

Adding to her outfit with a peach handbag, Jennifer also wore a pair of black kitten heels for the event.

Styling her brunette locks into a sleek updo, the film star completed her look with a light palette of makeup.

Jennifer Connelly showcased her sense of style in a leather sleeveless jacket as she attended the presentation of Louis Vuitton's Cruise 2025 collection in Barcelona on Thursday

The Top Gun: Maverick star also wore a beige dress with an a-symmetric hemline and a pleated detail

Adding to her outfit with a peach handbag, Jennifer also wore a pair of black kitten heels for the event

Violent clashes broke out between police and protestors near a famous Barcelona park after it was closed for the Louis Vuitton show.

Chaotic scenes showed friction between baton-wielding officers and residents rallying against the use of public property for a Louis Vuitton runway where stars from around the world had gathered.

Jennifer, Emma Stone, Sophie Turner, and Ana de Armas were among the top names welcomed by the luxury French brand to parade their 2025 range this week. But organisers have been accused of 'privatising' public space.

Video showed protestors being beaten back by masked police in riot gear as they raged against Louis Vuitton's use of the historic Park Guell, with critics voicing opposition towards both the event itself and the disruption it causes in the city for days.

Matters came to a head on Thursday as huge crowds wielding banners encircled officers, who were seen shoving residents and beating one man to the ground after he lashed out with a kick.

Officers were seen in harrowing footage wildly striking at protestors as they gathered in protest of the event.

The event itself is one of many organised by the luxury fashion brand for the 37th America's Cup, held in the creative hub of Barcelona this year and sponsored by the brand.

Among those attending was LVMH owner and CEO Bernard Arnault, who this year retained his spot as the richest man in the world, worth a staggering $206bn according to Forbes.

Police and demonstrators clash during a protest outside the Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain, Thursday May 23, 2024

Models present creations from the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2025 collection by French designer Nicholas Ghesquiere, in Barcelona

On Wednesday, dozens turned out to complain about the event, judging it 'privatising public space', as reported by Catalan News.

Park Guell was completed in 1914, some 14 years after it was first drawn up under instruction of Catalan entrepreneuer Eusebi Guell.

Guell aimed to 'recreate the British residential parks', even naming the site in English, with views over the flat plain of Barcelona and the adjacent Mediterranean.
Diane Kruger commanded attention in an eye-catching green gown at the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS Gala during Cannes Film Festival on Thursday.

The actress, 47, looked incredible in her bright green illusion gown with a flowing train, while her brunette tresses were styled into a funky curled look.

The legendary model showed off her incredible figure in the glamorous ensemble, which she teamed with white pointed-toe stiletto heels.

Diane later put on an animated display as she danced for the cameras inside the lavish event.

Earlier in the day, Diane cuts a stylish figure in a white minidress as she attended the Human Prize event.

Diane Kruger commanded attention in an eye-catching green gown at the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS Gala during Cannes Film Festival on Thursday

She put on an animated display as she danced for the cameras inside the lavish event

She looked incredible in the sleeveless number which featured an eye-catching sheer netted panel around the hem.

Cannes is the world's biggest film festival, first conceived in 1939 as an alternative to the then-fascist-influenced Venice Film Festival.

It has been held annually since 1946 except in 1948 and 1950, when it was cancelled due to lack of funds.

The festival is known for its carefully selected programme of films that have gone on to Oscar glory or launched the careers of directors like Quentin Tarantino .

Cannes' top prize is the Palme d'Or, or Golden Palm, whose past winners include Taxi Driver, Apocalypse Now, Pulp Fiction, The Pianist and Parasite.

Jane Campion became the first female director to win in 1993 with The Piano, followed by a nearly three-decade gap until Julia Ducournau received the award for Titane in 2021.

Justine Triet became only the third female director to take the prize last year with Anatomy of a Fall.

There is also an honorary Palme d'Or, which is awarded in recognition of notable bodies of work, with past recipients including Harrison Ford , Jane Fonda and Clint Eastwood .

There are two honorary winners this year: George Lucas of 'Star Wars' and ' Indiana Jones' fame, and Japanese animation legend Studio Ghibli, the first group to receive the prize.

Diane bought an edgy twist to the red carpet in the form of her bright green illusion gown with a flowing train, while her brunette tresses were styled into a funky curled look

The legendary model showed off her incredible figure in the glamorous ensemble, which she teamed with white pointed-toe stiletto heels

She accessorised with dazzling silver jewellery

Diane oozed confidence as she posed for a slew of sizzling snaps

She also gave a speech inside the event

Diane posed on the red carpet with glamorous stars such as Pritika Swarup, Elizabeth Sulcer and Natasha Poly

Diane and Elizabeth caught up inside the venue

They were later seen with Mohammed Al Turki

Cannes is the world's biggest film festival, first conceived in 1939 as an alternative to the then-fascist-influenced Venice Film Festival

Other awards include the Grand Prix, jury prize, best director, best actor, best actress, best screenplay and best short film.

The Cannes Film Festival officially kicked off on Tuesday night as celebrities walked the red carpet into the plush Grand Theatre Lumiere to honour Hollywood actor Meryl Streep before settling in to watch this year's opening film, The Second Act.

Almost as prestigious as winning the Palme d'Or, the Cannes Film Festival's top prize, is being on the jury that picks the winner.

Artists from around the world who have made a name for themselves in their respective field are picked to sit on the jury, with one member designated as jury president.

This year's jury president, U.S. director Greta Gerwig, comes to Cannes after the massive success last summer of Barbie.

She is the first female U.S. director to serve as jury president, taking the baton from the head of the 2023 jury, Triangle of Sadness director and two-time Palme d'Or winner, Ruben Ostlund of Sweden .

The breakout star of Martin Scorsese 's Killers of the Flower Moon, Lily Gladstone returns to Cannes after becoming the first Native American woman to be nominated for an Oscar and winning a Golden Globe award for her performance.

One of the writers of the 2014 Palme d'Or-winning film Winter Sleep, Turkish photographer, actor and screenwriter Ebru Ceylan is a familiar face at the festival.

Her first short film, On the Edge, was selected to compete at Cannes in 1998, and she has co-written several movies that were in the main competition line-up, including About Dry Grasses, Three Monkeys and The Wild Pear Tree.

One of the select few women who have starred in a James Bond film, French actor Eva Green is also on the jury.

She has an eclectic resume that includes Ridley Scott's Kingdom of Heaven, smaller-scale projects like Nocebo and TV series Penny Dreadful.

The 12-time winner of Spain 's prestigious Goya Awards, Spanish director Juan Antonio Bayona is on the jury.

He gained international recognition in 2007 with his first feature-length horror movie The Orphanage, produced by award-winning Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro .

Earlier in the day, Diane cuts a stylish figure in a white minidress as she attended the Human Prize event

Diane plays Becca in The Shrouds, which is inspired by the 2017 death of director David Cronenburg's wife Carolyn Zeifman, who he had been married to since 1979

His latest, the survival drama and Netflix hit 'Society of the Snow,' netted the director an Oscar nomination for best international feature film at this year's ceremony.

After making a name with 2018's Capernaum, which earned her Golden Globe, BAFTA and Oscar nominations, Lebanese director and screenwriter Nadine Labaki, who has long had ties to Cannes, adds jury member to her list of accolades.

One of Italy's most famous actors with a parallel Hollywood career, Pierfrancesco Favino is no stranger to Cannes, having appeared in the competition films The Traitor, directed by Marco Bellocchio, and Mario Martone's Nostalgia and now on the jury.

Winner of the 2018 Palme d'Or for Shoplifters, which also nabbed an Oscar nomination, acclaimed Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda returns as a main competition jury member after his film Monster won best screenplay at last year's festival.

With a Cesar award - France's equivalent of an Oscar - under his belt for The Intouchables as well as several successful blockbusters, French actor Omar Sy is a Cannes veteran.

The actor with parts in X-Men: Days of Future Past and Jurassic World starred in the opening film of the 2022 Un Certain Regard section at Cannes, Father & Soldier, and will now serve on the jury.
A Malaysian woman whose six relatives and a friend were injured on a Singapore Airlines flight hit by deadly turbulence this week said on Friday they had only seconds to react before the plane started to plummet.

One passenger died and more than 100 were injured when the Boeing 777-300ER fell 1,800 meters in just a few minutes during the final hours of its journey from London to Singapore on Tuesday.

Passengers and crew on the flight sustained skull, brain and spine injuries as they were tossed violently around the cabin.

The flight carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok, where at least 48 people are still being treated in hospital.

Eva Khoo, who prayed for her family at the Erawan Shrine in the Bangkok city center on Friday, said she was desperately concerned for her pregnant sister-in-law.

"My sister-in-law had to have surgery on her spine," she told AFP. "I am really worried because she is pregnant."

The family was returning from a two-week holiday in Switzerland and Britain.

Khoo said her brother was still in pain after the high-altitude ordeal.

"His hand is in pain and still numb," she said. "He couldn't carry anything. He still needs a wheelchair to move him around."

She said four of her relatives who were on the flight were treated in intensive care at a Bangkok hospital.

"Some of them are still in bed and can't be moved," she said.

Her brother told her that the seatbelt sign was off and the situation was "very calm" when the turbulence hit.

"They were serving food and collecting rubbish and suddenly the plane was shaking and my brother and his wife were sitting without a seatbelt," she said.

"They felt the vibration and the shaking, they wanted to fasten the seatbelt, but (they) only (had) a few seconds."

Her brother "flew away" and hit the floor while he was trying to fasten his belt, she said.

Her sister-in-law flew up and dropped onto a seat in the plane.

She said a family friend who was on the flight had fastened his seatbelt but still sustained a neck injury and will have to use back support for at least six months.

Turbulence danger

The plane was met at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport by emergency responders who used gurneys to ferry the injured to ambulances waiting on the tarmac.

Photos taken inside the plane after it landed in Bangkok show the cabin in chaos, strewn with food, drinks and luggage, and with oxygen masks dangling from the ceiling.

Singapore Airlines Chief Executive Goh Choon Phong has apologized for the "traumatic experience" and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased  a 73-year-old British man.

The carrier said on Friday it has tightened seatbelt rules on its flights after the incident and that it has introduced a "more cautious approach" to turbulence.

Investigators are analyzing cockpit data  including the voice recorder  as they seek to understand the cause of the deadly turbulence.

Air safety experts have told AFP that passengers are often too casual about wearing seatbelts, leaving them at risk if the plane hits unexpected turbulence.

Scientists also warn that so-called clear air turbulence, which is invisible to radar, is getting worse because of climate change. (AFP)
It looks like Roman Kemp has taken his relationship with girlfriend Carmen Gaggero to the next level as friends say he is engaged. The One Show host's romance with Carmen was revealed only last month when they were spotted on a date at at Le Petit Maison in Mayfair and the model was recently spotted wearing a ring on her engagement finger. A source told MailOnline Roman, 31 - who is the son of Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp and singer Shirlie Holliman - is more than ready to settle down and believes he has found the one in Carmen.
Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky have been married for fourteen years, and are not shy when it comes to flaunting their loving relationship in the public eye.

The Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga star, 40, and the Spanish model, 47, share twin boys Sasha and Tristan, 10, and a daughter India Rose who is 12.

Chris was joined by Elsa and their three children on Wednesday when he received his star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame

During the ceremony, the handsome Australian leaned over and planted a sweet kiss on his wife, who was there to celebrate the huge moment in his career.

Here, MailOnline looks inside the couple's relationship, including how they've starred in movies together, and shocked everyone by marrying just months into dating...

Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky have been married for fourteen years (pictured in 2023)

Chris and Elsa met in early 2010 and went on to tie the knot by the end of the year, with their wedding taking place during Christmas time.

The pair were introduced to each other by Chris' talent agent William Ward and sparks were instantly flying between them.

They debuted their relationship to the world at the opening gala for the Resnick Pavillion at the Los Angeles County Museum Of Art in September 2010, making their romance red carpet official.

In a 2015 interview with Elle, Chris said: 'There was no light bulb moment. From the first time we met, we just made sense.

'She's fun. She's outgoing, and she has a sense of humour and a passionate attitude toward life, which is nice to try to keep up with.'

They didn't waste any time and said 'I do' less than 12 months after meeting, while enjoying a holiday on the island of Sumba in Indonesia.

Chris later opened up about their wedding being a spur-of-the moment decision, rather than something that was planned out.

During a 2016 appearance on Good Morning Britain, he revealed: 'It did happen quick and it just felt right, it made sense.

Chris was joined by Elsa and their three children on Wednesday when he received his star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame

The couple didn't waste any time and said 'I do' less than 12 months after meeting while enjoying a holiday on the island of Sumba in Indonesia (Pictured at Cannes Film Festival this month)

They debuted their relationship to the world at the opening gala for the Resnick Pavillion at the Los Angeles County Museum Of Art in September 2010, making it red carpet official

In a 2015 interview with Elle, Chris said: 'There was no light bulb moment. From the first time we met, we just made sense'

'There was no great plan to any of it, to be honest. We were on holiday, and we said, 'Why don't we get married too?' And then the next minute...There probably should have been some planning, but it all worked out.

'Honestly, we had both our families on holiday at the same time, just randomly, and we said, this is a good opportunity with everyone together. So we just did it.'

Two years later, Elsa announced that she and Chris were pregnant with their first child India Rose Hemsworth, now 11, who was born on May 11 in 2012.

One year after India's arrival, the Spanish model and actress was pregnant again - this time with twins Sasha and Tristan, who were welcomed to the world in March 2014.

As a family of five, the couple made the huge decision in 2015 to pack up their lives and move from Los Angeles to Australia, where Chris is originally from.

At the time, The Thor star told the Daily Telegraph the move to his home country was 'the best decision' they made.

A small town boy at heart - he was raised on Phillip Island in Victoria - he says he felt a slower pace away from the lights of Hollywood was better for his young family.

'It's the first time in years I've felt like I have a home again,' he revealed, adding: ''For 10 years, I've had no base and led a pretty nomadic existence. Since we moved back, I feel much more grounded, and I like that.'

The pair were introduced to each other by Chris' talent agent William Ward and sparks were instantly flying

Two years after they ran off to the altar, Elsa announced that she and Chris were pregnant with their first child and India Rose Hemsworth, now 11 - she was born on May 11 in 2012 (pictured in July 2012)

As a family of four, the couple made the huge decision in 2015 to pack up their lives and move from Los Angeles to Australia, where Chris is originally from (Pictured at the Met Gala in May)

In a 2017 interview, Chris admitted: 'My wife and I fell in love, had kids, didn't really see each other for a few years, then fell back in love'

In an interview with GQ Australia in 2017, Chris opened up about his relationship with Elsa and the challenges they've faced.

He explained: 'My wife and I fell in love, had kids, didn't really see each other for a few years, then fell back in love.'

Adding: 'Once you have children, every instinct and every moment of your time is consumed by that. You've got nothing for each other.

'So make sure you have date night even if it's once in a blue moon, because most of the time you're just too tired and you'd actually prefer to sleep.'

Chris and Elsa's off-screen relationship moved on-screen when the actress joined her husband in the Marvel Thor movies, which he stars in as the title character.

She stood in for Natalie Portman as Jane Foster during the post-credits scene of Thor: The Dark World (2013) and then went on to play Wolf Woman in Thor: Love And Thunder (2022).

And the movie became a family affair as all three of their children also made cameos in the superhero film.

India appears alongside Chris in the role of 'Love' in the blockbuster, with Tristan and Sasha also making appearances.

Chris and Elsa's off-screen relationship moved on-screen when the actress joined her husband in the Marvel Thor movies, which he stars in as the title character

And the movie became a family affair as all three of their children also made cameos in the superhero film

He clarified that his children's cameos were simply a fun family experience and he didn't want his children to become actors

The couple made a rare family appearance as they were joined by their twin boys Sasha and Tristan, nine. They also share a daughter India, 11

The Hollywood actor, 40, and the Spanish model, 47, packed on the PDA as they shared a sweet kiss on the red carpet at Sydney's State Theatre

In an interview with Kevin McCarthy in 2022, he gushed: 'It's really cool. [My kids] really wanted to be in it, y'know?

'And Taika had his children in there, [Christian] Bale had his, Natalie [Portman] had her kids as well. That's my daughter as well, she plays the character of Love.'

He clarified that his children's cameos were simply a fun family experience and he didn't want his children to become actors.

When asked whether his kids enjoyed sharing the screen with their famous father, he replied: 'They loved it. They had a great time.'

The glamorous couple also played on-screen lovers in the 2018 movie 12 Strong.

Talking about their roles on Sunrise, Chris joked: 'We'd been working on this relationship and the chemistry for this film for about seven years since we met.'

Speaking fondly about his Too Fast Too Furious star wife, he added: 'We knew this was coming, this opportunity, so we said, 'Let's build on this and see if we can put it on screen.'

The couple shot the scenes together in early 2016, with Chris adding that it had felt like a vacation for them.

The glamorous couple also played on-screen lovers in the 2018 movie 12 Strong

In October 2023, Chris and Elsa were faced with some difficult news as they discovered that the actor could be prone to Alzheimer's disease

Hemsworth revealed that he was looking to improve his work-life balance with more family time. Pictured with son Sasha

'My wife was great, we have three little kids so this felt like a holiday,' he exclaimed.

The former Home And Away star also joked alongside co-star Michael Pena: 'Michael helped choreograph some of the kissing scenes.'

In October 2023, Chris and Elsa were faced with some difficult news as they discovered that the actor could be prone to Alzheimer's disease.

He received the shock diagnosis after taking a genetic test on the National Geographic documentary series Limitless with Chris Hemsworth last year.

The test revealed he has two copies of the gene APOE e4, which is linked to an increased risk of the debilitating disease.

'You're constantly thinking you're going to live forever, especially as a young individual. Then to be told that this might be the thing that might take you out was like, whoait kinda floored me,' Chris said on the show.

He also revealed that he was looking to improve his work-life balance with more family time.

'It made me think about my kids and how they're growing up and things are changing so dramatically, and I want to sit, I want to soak it in.'

The couple - who now live in Byron Bay - are known for being animal lovers and have adopted a whole string of pets over the years, including a rabbit, horses and a pig (Pictured at the 2014 Golden Globe Awards)

The couple packed on the PDA as Chris received his star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame

The family - who now live in Byron Bay - are known for being animal lovers and have adopted a whole string of pets over the years, including a rabbit, horses and a pig.

They also have other animals including guinea pigs, a bearded dragon lizard, chickens, a Goldendoodle called Sunny and a cocker spaniel.

The couple recently made a rare family appearance alongside India, Sasha and Tristan at the red carpet premiere of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga earlier this month.

Mad Mad: Furiosa, the fifth movie in the long-running series, will be released in cinemas on May 24.

The film tells the origin story of a young Imperator Furiosa, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, who rose to fame as the star of Netflix hit The Queen's Gambit.

Chris portrays villainous character Dementus, who he has described as 'a very violent, insane, brutal person that is born from the Wasteland'.
Elle Fanning was the epitome of chic as stepped out in vintage Chanel for her first day at Cannes 77th Film Festival on Friday.

The I Am Sam star, 26, was seen leaving Hotel Martinez Cannes where she is staying in collaboration with L'OReal Paris ahead of the brand's big party on Friday night.

She exuded elegance as she wowed in a thick-strap Chanel pencil dress with a ruffled tulle bodice and a satin bow around the waist.

Adding inches to her petite frame, the blonde beauty slipped her feet into some classy open-toed Chanel mules featuring bow detailing.

In keeping with her designer wardrobe, Elle accessorised with a pair of square-shaped, tinted Chanel sunglasses.

Elle Fanning was the epitome of chic as stepped out in vintage Chanel for the penultimate day at Cannes 77th Film Festival on Friday

The I Am Sam star, 26, was seen leaving Hotel Martinez Cannes where she is staying in collaboration with L'Oreal Paris ahead of the brand's big party on Friday night

Elle finished her stunning ensemble with a silky black bow tied into the back of her luminous bob.

Barbara Palvin was also spotted leaving the exclusive hotel as she cut a sophisticated figure for her outing.

The hungarian model, 30, wore a light grey loose-fitted two-piece suit which she layered over a crisp white shirt and black skinny tie.

Barbara wore a pair of shiny black trainers and a black sunglasses.

She slicked her hair back into a tight bun and showcased her natural beauty by opting for a natural makeup look.

Elle's blonde locks are a new addition to her style as she she confidently debuted her striking new bob haircut in a series of new Instagram selfies in March.

After allowing celebrity hairstylist, Jenda Alcorn, to chop off her gorgeous full mane, the actress exuded confidence as she unveiled her cheekbone-skimming locks.

In a snap shared to Instagram, the Emmy nominee posed in her living room in a tiny white tank top and striped bottoms before indulging in some retail therapy.

She exuded elegance as she wowed in a thick-strap Chanel pencil dress with a ruffled tulle bodice and a satin bow around the waist

Adding inches to her petite frame, the blonde beauty slipped her feet into some classy open-toed Chanel mules featuring bow detailing

In keeping with her designer wardrobe, Elle accessorised with a pair of square-shaped, tinted Chanel sunglasses

Elle finished her stunning ensemble with a silky black bow tied into the back of her luminous bob

Elle appeared in top spirits as left her glitzy accomodation with a smile

Hours earlier, the star enjoyed some time in her room as she shared some cute snaps to Instagram

She had some fun in the sun and striked a pose on her balcony

Barbara Palvin was also spotted leaving the exclusive hotel as she cut a sophisticated figure for her outing

The hungarian model, 30, wore a light grey loose-fitted two-piece suit which she layered over a crisp white shirt and black skinny tie

Adding a hint of casualness to her ensemble, Barbara wore a pair of shiny black trainers and a black sunglasses

She slicked her hair back into a tight bun and showcased her natural beauty by opting for a natural makeup look

Elle's recent blonde locks are a new addition to her style as she she confidently debuted her striking new bob haircut in a series of new Instagram selfies in March

The Great star pictured with her trademark long hair (pictured in October)

The younger sister of Dakota Fanning showcased her natural beauty as she bared her cute freckles, speckled across the bridge of her nose and cheeks, under minimal makeup.

Within three hours, she received more than 109,429 others likes, including one from Camila Cabello, and thousands of comments complimenting her new look.

Under the post, supermodel Elsa Hosk wrote: 'Obsessed '

'CHIC,' Ariana DeBose commented, while Yara Shahidi dropped a single heart-eyes emoji.

Elle made it clear to her 6.3 million Instagram followers that she was pleased with the look as she called Alcorn 'the hair master' for getting her cut just right.

After making the reveal, she gushed that she was going on a 'shopping spree' to celebrate her new hair.

In August, news broke that her satirical period series, The Great, was canceled at Hulu after three seasons.

For her role as Empress Catherine II, based on Catherine the Great, she earned three Golden Globe nominations as well as one at the Emmys.

The show, which first premiered in 2020, was set in 18th century and starred Nicholas Hoult as her husband Peter III of Russia.

After allowing celebrity hairstylist, Jenda Alcorn, to chop off her gorgeous mane, the actress, 25, oozed confidence as she unveiled her cheekbone-skimming locks

In her latest slideshow, the two-time Golden Globe nominee posed in her living room in a tiny white tank top and striped bottoms before indulging in some retail therapy

Elle made it clear to her 6.3 million Instagram followers that she was pleased with the look as she called Alcorn 'the hair master' for getting her cut just right

After making the reveal, she revealed she was going on a 'shopping spree' to celebrate her new hair

In December, she made her Broadway debut in the darkly comic family drama, Appropriate, alongside Natalie Gold, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Sarah Paulson and Corey Stoll.

The story follows the Lafayettes as they return to their late patriarch's Arkansas home to deal with the remains of his estate.

Toni, played by Paulson, is the eldest daughter, who wants to remember and honor their late father.

Bo, played by Stoll, is her younger brother, who hopes to recoup the money he spent while caring for their ailing father.

Their estranged brother, Franz, also makes his appearance, which throws all of the siblings' plans into disarray.

In August, news broke that her satirical period series, The Great, for which she earned three Golden Globe nominations, was canceled at Hulu after three seasons

In December, she made her Broadway debut in the darkly comic family drama, Appropriate, alongside Natalie Gold, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Sarah Paulson and Corey Stoll (pictured above with Paulson in November 2023)

And while closing out the estate, they discover some disturbing artifacts that force them to confront their family's past.

At the time, she revealed during an appearance on LIVE with Kelly and Mark that the cast and crew had already taught her so much.

She explained how they made sure she knew about all of the little theater etiquette things as they rehearsed and ahead of opening night.

She also talked about how she is adapting well to living in New York City despite being a self-dubbed California girl at heart.

'I still don't drive,' she admitted was why she became quickly accommodated to walking everywhere.

'I need to get on that,' the Emmy nominee laughed. '[But] I have my license.'
She's become known to fans as the 'mystery woman' on Channel 10's MasterChef Australia.

And contestant Sue Bazely has now shown viewers she can have a laugh at her own expense.

The 58-year-old customer manager from Victoria has created her own 'Who is Sue?' hashtag on her social media.

Sue was dubbed the 'mystery contestant' after frustrated viewers noticed that they were not seeing much of her so far this season.

A long time MasterChef fan herself, Sue has not featured in the edits of challenges and her bio has not been shown.

She's become known to fans as the 'mystery woman' on Channel 10's MasterChef Australia. Contestant Sue Bazely (pictured) has shown viewers she can have a laugh at her own expense

Her apparent absence tested the patience of some viewers who took to X to ask 'Who is Sue?'

'Has she been here this whole time?!,' another asked, while one fan joked: 'Is Sue the MasterChef intruder?'

Sue appears to have seen the whole 'mystery' controversy as a bit of a storm in a cup by signing her posts on Instagram with her freshly created 'Who is Sue' handle.

She even shared a series of 'mystery woman' headlines to her social media, which was shared to Reddit by a fan who captioned the post: 'Sue is such a sport.'

The 58-year-old customer manager from Victoria has created her own 'Who is Sue?' hashtag on her social media

Sue was dubbed the 'mystery contestant' after frustrated viewers noticed that they were not seeing much of her so far this season

Her apparent absence tested the patience of some viewers who took to X to ask 'Who is Sue?'

Meanwhile, Sue featured prominently this week on the cooking contest.

And in a bizarre twist some fans appear to have taken 'credit' for Sue's 'new edit'.

'So much Sue. WTF is going on?,' exclaimed one fan and continued:

'Do you reckon the editing team have gone back to edit Sue into an episode after everyone had no idea who she was, even after 4 weeks?'

Married for 33 years, Sue has been a MasterChef fan for many years and is raring to take on the challenge herself.

Having worked on her own handwritten cookbook for 42 years, she dreams of getting the epic collection of upwards of 170 recipes published.
Paul Danan looked worlds away from his old self as he appeared on The Dozen with Liam Tuffs podcast.

The former Hollyoaks star, 45, revisited his past drug addiction, his near-fatal heroin overdose and bedding over one thousand women during the candid interview.

The actor, who played Sol Patrick in the soap, sported thick blonde curly hair and looked noticeably different from his soap days when he sported a buzzcut.

During the chat, Paul recalled overdosing on heroin shortly after he returned from a rehab stint in South Africa after his time on Hollyoaks.

Speaking about the ordeal, he said: 'It took a bad route, a very dark route. Drugs, I had an overdose. I came out of rehab in South Africa. The psychiatrist had put me on all these anti-psychotics. I was there for months.

Paul Danan looked worlds away from his Hollyoaks heyday on The Dozen with Liam Tuffs podcast as he detailed his near-fatal heroin overdose and bedding over 1,000 women

The actor, who played Sol Patrick, detailed his rehabs stints and trying to make it in Hollywood (pictured on Hollyoaks)

The actor, who played Sol Patrick in the soap, sported thick blonde curly hair and looked noticeably different from his soap days when he sported a buzzcut (pictured in 2001)

'I got back home and my parents were so proud of me. I was fat and horrible and didn't feel like myself.'

Paul went out to get some cocaine but also ended up buying heroin which he had never taken before.

He said: 'They gave me my keys and car and I detoured and got some gear, some coke. I got a bag of brown [heroin] which I'd never done before.

'I snorted it and shouldn't have snorted it because that's dangerous. I ended up having an overdose really bad.'

Paul returned home and went to bed but his parents realised something was wrong and called an ambulance.

He said: 'My mum found me and I couldn't breath, it was terrible. Apparently my mum heard me gagging on my last breath. She came into the room and couldn't wake me up.

'My little brother was next door which was the saddes thing about it because still to this day he's been traumatised by it.

'She called the ambulance and luckily they were parked down the end of the road. They came and said what has he taken and she said he doesn't do drugs. They knew they had to give me the antidote. F**k me, it was Pulp Fiction.

Paul's battle with drug addiction first began after he left Hollyoaks in 2001 after four years playing Sol (pictured in 2005)

After Hollyoaks, Paul memorably appeared on Celebrity Love Island (pictured with Lady Isabella Hervey on the show)

He added: 'All I could see was my dad's face at the end of the ambulance. My mum said to me she'd already said goodbye to me. I saw my dad's face and could see this look of absolute digust and hate, but relief, "Oh my God, he's alive." '

Elsewhere during the interview, Paul spoke about his many flings and estimated he has slept with over one thousand women.

Asked how many women he has slept with, he replied: 'I don't know. I think we're definitely in the higher range. More than a thousand, yeah.'

Paul admitted he misses his wild younger days, saying those types of casual flings don't happen as much for him anymore.

He said: 'I really miss it. It don't happen like it used to. You have to be careful if you're looking at someone who is 25, is that wrong, is that right?

'Are you alright to fancy someone who's 25, 30? They're not on your level at 45. I am looking more at the 30 range, I need to be attracted.'

Paul recalled overdosing on heroin shortly after he returned from a rehab stint in South Africa after his time on Hollyoaks

Paul's battle with drug addiction first began after he left Hollyoaks in 2001 after four years playing Sol.

He moved to Los Angeles in an attempt to make it in Hollywood but not having family or friends nearby caused him to use drugs frequently.

He said: 'They were selling me as this young Jude Law type guy. You can't party and do well in Hollywood. You've got to be healthy. It was cool but I ended up getting into the wrong type of routine of using drugs.

'I can't handle rejection but I choose the one job that gives you more rejection than any other job. I'm auditioning for big, big movies.

'A lot of the time my life revolved around getting stoned, going to a gig, doing a pill or coke. There was always drugs involved.

'America is very drug orientated if you're young. I was in my twenties. The one thing I needed was family or friends around me and I didn't. It was like the drugs filled that void, they were my friend.'

Paul also claimed during the chat he won a small role in the Hollywood comedy Cheaper By The Dozen before the casting agents ultimately decided on Ashton Kutcher for the part.

The actor previously told how he relapsed during the first Covid-19 lockdown in the spring of 2020, and ended up homeless (Pictured in May 2021)

The actor previously told how he relapsed during the first Covid-19 lockdown in the spring of 2020, and ended up homeless - but later turned his life around and is now helping others with addiction problems.

He ended up spending three and a half months in rehab, after having previously spent 'about 1million on rehab and recovery' over the years.

Paul told The Sun that he decided to move in with his parents in Essex, so that he wouldn't be on his own in Hertfordshire during the first lockdown in March 2020.

He believed he'd be fine because he hadn't touched drugs in a year and a half.

The Hollyoaks star revealed that - due to his dad being in the high risk category - he couldn't even meet people for walks, and couldn't she his son DeNiro, 6, who was in London with Paul's ex.

Paul recalled getting 'really bad cabin fever' and began feeling 'frustrated' as if he was 'going mad,' but gave notice on his flat in May 2020 with no end in sight for the restrictions, because he didn't want to keep paying rent when he wasn't there.

Unfortunately, when he went to clear out the flat, the soap star spotted an empty bag of cocaine, which 'triggered something' and left him wanting drugs again.

He told the publication: 'I ended up bumping into someone outside and getting some cocaine from them. It was a moment of like, "F**k it, I'm not going to get another chance." Then I went back to my parents and used.

'I only had a few lines but it was enough to get the taste again. They say one line is too many, a thousand is never enough, and that's what it's like.

'I felt terrible, so guilty and ashamed. I reckon over the years I've spent about 1million on rehab and recovery, and yet there I was doing it all again.'

Unable to cope living with his parents, Paul decided to attempt to detox by staying with a friend of a friend in Bournemouth.

Recovery: The Hollyoaks star ended up spending three and a half months in rehab, after having previously spent 'about 1million on rehab and recovery' over the years (Pictured in February)

However, the pair fell out, with the friend 'dumping' paul - who 'wasn't really ready to get clean' - at the station and leaving him there.

The actor couldn't get into a hotel because of lockdown, so ended up going for a walk along the beach 'and scoring some drugs.'

Paul recalled meeting 'dodgy guys' who ended up stealing some of his belongings, and suddenly it was midnight, and he had nowhere to go.

He admitted: 'It got scary. I just walked the streets trying to get into places but every hotel said no to me and I was in tears. I was basically homeless.'

Despite wanting to be back under his parents roof, they were 'furious' at him because of having to deal with his relapses so many times before.

Thankfully a kind taxi driver took him to a hotel owned by his brother, where Paul slept for a few hours before going back to London.

There, he booked an assessment at the famous Nightingale Hospital, which treats addicts, but missed the appointment.

Paul then 'blagged' a room at a Holiday Inn in London, and found another dealer. He started using every day from the hotel room.

The actor revealed that he ate just a croissant per day: 'For two weeks, I didn't sleep and was just taking a few grams of coke all day... I was losing my mind.'

Eventually, the star began hallucinating, believing that police were coming to get him and seeing things that weren't real, which he described as 'terrifying.'

Paul organised a charity football match on Saturday that raised 595 for Little Havens Hospice and was attended by the likes of Tamer Hassan and Shane Lynch

Paul was joined at the afterparty by soul singer Marley, whose debut single comes out June 7

Among those who were part of the team durig the match was The Football Factory star Tamar Hassan and former professional boxer Chris Evangelou

Linda Robson was also in attendance for the match alongside Chris

Shane Lynch was also in high spirits as he took part in the fundraising game

Thankfully Gladstones - a rehab facility in the Cotswolds - offered to take him within the week, with Paul admitted that it 'saved my life.'

He stayed at Gladstones for three and a half months, where they put him on the right ADHD medication and got him a psychiatrist as well as a yoga teacher.

While in the facility, Paul pitched his idea for therapeutic drama workshops to different drug and alcohol recovery centres.

When he checked out of Gladstones he moved to Bristol where he began his The Morning After Theatre workshops, which has now grown into a charity with ten people working for Paul and his business partner.
EastEnders fans have begged for iconic character Whitney Dean to return just hours after she made an emotional farewell to Albert Square on Thursday.

As the new mother, played by Shona McGarty, sobbed during her final scenes, fans were left 'crying' as they struggled to watch the actress leave the square for good.

TV buffs dubbed her exit as an 'end of an era' for the BBC One soap as Shona, 32, made the decision to quit last year to 'explore other opportunities'.

Whitney made her debut in 2008, aged 16, and has been at the centre of multiple explosive storylines over the last 16 years.

But her most recent, potentially her last, was the most heartbreaking so far.

EastEnders fans have begged for iconic character Whitney Dean to return just hours after she made an emotional farewell to Albert Square on Thursday as 'sobbing' viewers dubbed it an 'end of an era'

As the new mother, played by Shona McGarty, sobbed during her final scenes, fans were left 'crying' as they struggled to watch the actress leave the square for good

Recent episodes saw Whitney's partner and father to her newborn Dolly, Zack Hudson, break her heart after he cheated with childhood pal Lauren Branning.

Unable to cope with the betrayal, Whitney decided it was her time to say goodbye to her home in Walford and move to Wakefield to be closer to her brother, Ryan Malloy.

The new mother's big plans were initially overwhelming, but she felt reassured when her adoptive mother, Bianca, offered to join her.

This plan soon crashed and burned as Whitney felt betrayed once more when she learned Bianca knew all along about Zack and Lauren's secret and didn't tell her.

Whitney refused to let Bianca join her and decided to leave alone with Dolly and her foster child, Britney Wainwright.

Before jumping on the bus to escape the heartache and suffering, Whitney attempted closure by meetingwith Zack and Lauren separately.

After an emotional final goodbye at her leaving do in the Vic, residents walked Whitney to her bus stop and soap extras gave her a hug and kiss on the way.

Whitney held her head high and quietly sobbed as she made her way through the square for the final time - a scene so emotional that fans at home were reduced to tears and begged for her return in the future.

Recent episodes saw Whitney's partner and father to her newborn Dolly, Zack Hudson, break her heart after he cheated with childhood pal Lauren Branning

Unable to cope with the betrayal, Whitney decided it was her time to say goodbye to her home in Watford and move to Wakefield to be closer to her brother, Ryan Malloy

The new mother's big plans were initially overwhelming, but she felt reassured when her adoptive mother, Bianca, offered to join her

This plan soon crashed and burned as Whitney felt betrayed once more when she learned Bianca knew all along about Zack and Lauren's (pictured) secret and didn't tell her

Unable to see past her part in the scandal, Whitney refused to let Bianca join her and decided to leave alone with Dolly and her foster child, Britney Wainwright

And they all lived happily ever after. Watch the whole episode now https://t.co/GRyphnZqty #EastEnders pic.twitter.com/zorm6zdaRZ  BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) May 23, 2024

Fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their devastation and heartbreak. They dubbed her exit the end of an era and 'bawled their eyes out'.

One penned: 'Didn't think I would cry this much over Whitney leaving #eastenders'

'Goodbye Whitney, your days of suffering are finally over. Eastenders didn't have to make me cry though.'

'Well it's definitely an end of an era for Whitney on I was absolutely bawling my eyes out at end of tonight's Eastenders as the beautiful Whitney left all the best for the future u will be sadly missed Lots of love beautiful'

'End of an era. What a lovely, touching, moving and nice way too end her stint in Albert Square. Whitney Dean will be missed. At least the doors being left open if she ever returns in the future. # Eastenders'

' I'm Gonna Miss Whitney So Much Been Watching Since I Was A Kid Hope To See Her Return Sometime In The Future Soon #whitneydean #eastenders @bbceastenders @ShonaBM Tough Truth. @Toughtruth'

'Nice exit scene for Whitney tonight. I'll miss @ShonaBM I hope there will be a time for a return for Whitney I hope it's not the last we see of her. Good luck to Shona on your next project. And I like Whitney got Julia's theme for her departure. # EastEnders'

'At least Whitney can return in the future!! Although she is one of the main reasons I have watched EastEnders for so long'

Fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their devastation and heartbreak. They dubbed her exit the end of an era and 'bawled their eyes out'

'I wish they braught (sic) back Tiffany for Whitney's exit. Such a wasted opportunity in not bringing her back especially as she arrived in Walford with her 16 years ago Hopefully Whitney will return when Dolly is much older. Or Zack brings Dolly back to Walford for a bit #EastEnders'

And devastated fans could have their wish come true.

Ahead of the final scenes, Shona took to Instagram with a teary clip and confessed it was her decision to leave but teased that the door is 'wide open' for a possible return.

Barely holding back her tears, she revealed it was 'a tough old paper round' and she will not be watching her final episode until her partner David Bracken is back home.

In the emotional clip she said: 'It was my decision and I just want to say thanks. Thanks for everything.'

'Thank you all. 16 years is a long time. It's been a tough old paper and I have loved every single minute of it and who knows, the door is wide open and whitney could come back in her high heels and really big earrings one day,' she added.

Shona recently revealed that it was a 'really difficult' decision to leave the soap, but has decided she wants to explore 'other opportunities' before she is 'too old'.

She told The Sun: 'It was a really difficult decision, because it's all I've ever known. I pretty much grew up on the Square, so I feel like I'm leaving home. But I had to put on my big girl pants and be quite brave, because life is so short, and you feel that more and more as you get older.

'There are other opportunities and areas of the industry I want to explore before I get too old! All things come to an end and this is the new chapter of my life.

And devastated fans could have their wish come true. Ahead of the final scenes, Shona took to Instagram with a teary clip

She confessed it was her decision to leave but teased that the door is 'wide open' for a possible return. Barely holding back her tears, she revealed it was 'a tough old paper round'

Shona recently revealed that it was a 'really difficult' decision to leave the soap, but has decided she wants to explore 'other opportunities' before she is 'too old'

Shona has now revealed that it was a 'really difficult' decision to leave the soap but has decided she wants to explore 'other opportunities' before she is 'too old'

The actress, 32, who joined the soap at the age of 16 in 2008 portraying the iconic Whitney Dean, revealed that she would be quitting in July after portraying the long-running character for 16 years (pictured in 2008)

'So although it was a big decision, once I'd made it, I was quite resolute that this was something I had to do. I mean, 16 years is amazing. I've had a really good run and Whitney needs a break.'

The BBC star filmed her final scenes in April and was greeted by fans outside Elstree Studios as she headed home.

Shona added: 'I'm not gonna lie, I feel like it's a kind of grief and I didn't think I'd be so emotional. But seeing all the fans who had these messages and cards was just beautiful and, although I tried to keep it together, I actually fell to pieces'.

She was seen flashing a smile as she drove home from work and stopped at the gate to pose for selfies with fans who had gathered outside.

The soap star took her time to leave video messages as she signed autographs and chatted with the crowd.

Shona's car was filled with flowers, cards and presents from her co-stars as she departed the studio for the last time.

Shona's character Whitney, arrived back Walford in 2008 as the adopted daughter of Bianca Jackson (played by Patsy Palmer).

She has been at the heart of countless hard-hitting story lines, including grooming, sexual abuse, baby loss, kidnap, stalking and illicit affairs.

Whitney has been given a dramatic send off which follows a shocking pregnancy storyline.

She said: 'It was a really difficult decision, because it's all I've ever known. There are other opportunities and areas of the industry I want to explore before I get too old! All things come to an end and this is the new chapter of my life' (pictured 2022)

Shona added: 'I'm not gonna lie, I feel like it's a kind of grief and I didn't think I'd be so emotional' (pictured 2022)

Shona's character Whitney, arrived back Walford in 2008 as the adopted daughter of Bianca Jackson (played by Patsy Palmer left) In 2020 she killed deranged Leo King for the soap's 35th anniversary (pictured in 2008)

The character and her partner Zack (played by James Farrar) have been trying to have a baby for a long time.

She previously terminated a pregnancy after finding out her little girl suffered from Edwards' Syndrome, which meant her baby would not have survived long after being born.

Whitney was left completely devastated by the loss and swore she would never try and have a biological child again and so she and Zack put themselves forward for foster care.

The couple ended up looking after a young boy Ashton over the Christmas period however, he soon got adopted leaving the couple more alone than ever.

In 2008 Whitney was groomed and abused by her onscreen mum's partner and in 2020 she killed deranged Leo King for the soap's 35th anniversary.

It is unknown what the actress is going to do next but she revealed she only had one week off after filming her final episode before starting a new top-secret project.

However, it is likely Shona will do something with music as she regularly posts videos of her singing to social media.

In 2012, she performed on Children in Need singing Sm Cooke's A Change is Gonna Come.

She has also been part of a number of hard hitting story lines including grooming, sexual abuse, baby loss, kidnap, stalking and illicit affairs (pictured with partner Zack Hudson, played by James Farrar)

She released a charity song for Great Ormond Street Hospital in 2018 and covered The Beatles' Let It Be in 2021 for the charity Mind.

In 2022, Shona sang at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall for BBC1.

She added that 'singing is her first love' and revealed she has already 'written lots of songs' and would love to release an album one day.
Dominic West recalled his awkward first encounter with the Spice Girls when he starred in their hit movie in 1997, on Friday.

The actor, 54, starred as a photographer in Spice World because he 'really wanted to meet the group' - but not in the way it turned out.

Dominic recalled the embarrassing story while chatting with hosts Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond on This Morning.

The Crown star said he was having a 'quick nap on a sofa' when he woke up to Victoria Beckham, Mel B, Mel C, Geri Halliwell and Emma Bunton looking at him.

Speaking about his filming days on set of Spice World, he said: 'I had been to a big weekend in Ibiza, and I thought Id have a quick kip and I woke up during a script meeting and they [Spice Girls] were all looking at me like "whos this twit".'

Dominic West, 54, recalled his awkward first encounter with the Spice Girls when he starred in their hit movie in 1997, on Friday

The Crown star said he was having a 'quick nap on a sofa' when he woke up to Victoria Beckham, Mel B, Mel C, Geri Halliwell and Emma Bunton looking at him (all pictured in 1997)

The actor starred as a photographer (pictured) in Spice World because he 'really wanted to meet the group' - but not in the way it turned out

Alison, who joked he was a 'sleazy' photographer in the movie, asked Dominic the real reason he wanted to star in Spice World.

Dominic said: 'I wasnt sleazy! I was terrified and they were at the height of their fame, and I was dying to meet them.'

Alison added: 'Is that the only reason you did it?'

Dominic responded: 'Yes I was dying to meet them.'

It comes after Dominic revealed that his kiss scandal with Lily James was 'deeply stressful' for his wife Catherine Fitzgerald, as he shared her reaction to the snaps for the first time.

In October 2020, co-stars Lily and married Dominic were caught enjoying what appeared to be a racy weekend in Rome - which made headlines around the world.

Following the snaps emerging, the actor put on a public display of unity with his wife, with the couple releasing a statement about their marriage saying they were 'very much still together'.

Catherine was also said at the time to have banned Dominic from speaking with the actress, 35, as part of a peace deal struck between the couple.

Dominic recalled the embarrassing story while chatting with hosts Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond on This Morning

Speaking about his filming days on set of Spice World, he said: 'I had been to a big weekend in Ibiza, and I thought Id have a quick kip and I woke up during a script meeting and they [Spice Girls] were all looking at me like "whos this twit"

Mel C, Emma, Mel B, Victoria and Geri pictured in 1997 at the 50th Cannes Film Festival

Alison, who joked he was a 'sleazy' photographer in the movie, asked Dominic the real reason he wanted to star in Spice World

Dominic said: 'I wasnt sleazy! I was terrified and they were at the height of their fame, and I was dying to meet them'

Speaking to The Sunday Times' Culture Magazine, Dominic said: 'I hesitate to speak on my wife's behalf because it was obviously horrible, particularly for her.'

'But we do joke about it sometimes... It was an absurd situation. It was deeply stressful for my wife and my kids, but there were lighter moments. That was the best that came out of it, really.'

Dominic surprised onlookers when he was pictured passionately embracing actress Lily during a romantic, mid-pandemic break in Rome back in 2020, shortly after international travel restrictions were lifted.

The couple didn't seem to mind who saw them as they cuddled up to one another and shared a ride on a scooter while taking in the sights throughout the day.

At the time he was still married to Catherine - and no split had been publicly announced - but he was not wearing his wedding ring.

A source told MailOnline that the pair spent two nights in a suite at the top Hotel De La Ville with a panoramic view over the whole city and just at two minutes walk from the Spanish steps.

They only left the hotel for a few hours riding an electric scooter around the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Pietra, before joining their friend and mutual manager Angharad Wood at a downtown restaurant.

As paparazzi photographers lurked, Lily sat next to Dominic and he couldn't resist kissing her neck and stroking her.

It comes after Dominic revealed that his kiss scandal with Lily James was 'deeply stressful' for his wife Catherine Fitzgerald, as he shared her reaction to the snaps for the first time

They were preparing to star in Emily Mortimer's adaptation of Nancy Mitford's celebrated novel The Pursuit Of Love for the BBC and filming began that July - three months before their surprise holiday.

But the pair go way back and starred in Othello together at Sheffield's Crucible back in 2011. Lily played Desdemona when she was aged 22 and Dominic played Iago aged 41.

After pictures of them finally emerged, the versatile actor gave waiting reporters a surprisingly wooden performance as they gathered outside the sprawling Cotswolds home he shares with a bewildered looking FitzGerald and their children.
Elizabeth Hurley showcased her age-defying figure in a Christian Dior underwear set during a racy shoot with German photographer Ellen von Unwerth on Thursday.

The Gossip Girl actress, 58, put on a busty display in a nude bra, teamed with matching boxers as she posed against a mirror.

She wrapped a chic beige trench coat with black buttons around her in behind-the-scenes social media clips.

Her long brunette locks were styled in a glamorous blowdry and she sported a bold makeup look, with a dramatic smokey eye and a swipe of glossy nude lipstick.

Sharing the video to Instagram, Elizabeth wrote: 'Whenever I shoot with @ellenvonunwerth I always end up in my underwear. Heigh ho'

Elizabeth Hurley showcased her age-defying figure during a racy shoot with German photographer Ellen von Unwerth on Thursday

The Gossip Girl actress, 58, put on a busty display in a nude bra, teamed with Christion Dior boxers

It comes after Elizabeth revealed she is planning to team up for another movie with her son Damian - but this time she won't be in front of the camera.

The mother-son duo made headlines earlier this year following the release of Damian's directorial debut, Strictly Confidential - which saw the actress engage in a steamy lesbian sex scene with her 28-year-old costar Pear Chiravara.

The controversial thriller was ultimately savaged by critics who described it as a 'horrendous drama' which played out like a 'daytime soap opera.'

But, in a new interview, Damian revealed his mother is already on board with his next feature, albeit as a producer, as Elizabeth hit back at the reaction to her racy scenes.

'I have the next script written...Its a movie we are putting together now,' Damian, 22, told Social Life magazine.

Elizabeth quickly interjected: 'I won't be in this one. I will be a producer on it, though.'

In Damian's directorial debut, Elizabeth plays a mother called Lily who welcomes her daughter's friends to her Caribbean estate the year after the mysterious deaths of her daughter and her husband.

A number of secrets are revealed during the trip, including Lily's love affair with her daughter's female friend.

Of the steamy scene between the pair, Elizabeth previously told TooFab: 'Well, it was a very important part of storytelling, when Mia, our protagonist, is on this quest to find out why her best friend [Elizabeth's character's daughter] killed herself.

She wrapped a beige trench coat with black buttons around her while posing for a behind-the-scenes clip

Her long brunette locks were styled in a glamorous blowdry and she sported a bold makeup look, with a dramatic smokey eye and a swipe of glossy nude lipstick

The actress, 58, was directed by her young son, 22, in several steamy lesbian sex scenes with costar Pear Chiravara, 28

'It was so integral to [the storytelling] that the actual physical filming of it wasn't even something we talked about really. We just knew that the impact it would have on the story and the rest was just our job.'

She insisted the scene is not simply included for shock value, adding she always stays away from movies that have salacious moments to stun the audience.

Speaking to Social Life Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Devorah Rose for the Memorial Day Cover Story, Elizabeth explained that the scene was nowhere near as scandalous as it seemed.

'Damian had this idea that you can make something so sensual and interesting without actually having nudity, and not a lot of people would have thought of that,' the Bedazzled star stated.

'There has been so much hoo-ha about these scenes. But actually, there's nothing gratuitous in it  no gratuitous nudity whatsoever  and I really appreciated that.'

Damian added: 'I think there is definitely a time and place for nudity in film, but Ive actually never liked it in sex scenes. I think its so much more effective to have someone nude walking around having coffee in the morning in a scene.

'I just dont like toplessness for the sake of toplessness or nudity for the sake of nudity when it doesnt need to be there.'

Elizabeth, whose film credits include Austin Powers and Bedazzled, appeared to criticize bad fathers as she praised her son for swapping gender roles in Strictly Confidential.

Damian switched the plot so that the father died and the wife was left.

Elizabeth praised her son's vision for the film: 'Damian had this idea that you can make something so sensual and interesting without actually having nudity'

Their next project will not see the young filmmaker directing his mother as she confirmed she will only be involved behind the scenes as a producer

'Well, its quite an interesting thing when you change the gender of the role because it changes everything,' Elizabeth said. 'One of the most significant things that changed is that somehow it was more wounding for the mother to be the one betraying her daughters trust.

'Damian gave me a great part, because its a fresh thing to see. I dont want to see a dad behaving badly ever again  in real life or in fiction.'

Elizabeth conceived her only child during a short-lived relationship with American film producer Steve Bing, not long after she split from Hugh Grant in 2000.

She gave birth to Damian in 2002 but the businessman contested paternity, claiming they had been in a non-exclusive relationship at the time.

Although a DNA test proved that Steve was Damians father, he did not become part of his life and they are thought to have never even met.

The businessman died in 2020 when he jumped from the 27th floor of his Los Angeles apartment building.

Strictly Confidential is available to stream on digital platforms
Renee Zellweger and her younger on-screen lover Leo Woodall were spotted sharing their first kiss as they filmed romantic scenes for the the new Bridget Jones film in London on Thursday.

The actress, 55, who has played the titular character in the past three films, is currently shooting the fourth instalment, Mad About The Boy, in the capital.

In the upcoming film, Bridget enjoys a fling with a hunky younger lover named Rockstar, who is played by One Day star Leo, 27.

During the scene Renee could be seen answering the door Leo before later locking lips on the pavement, appearing to be dressed in the same costumes from date night scenes filmed on Monday.

She was wearing a short floral dress with a pair of black tights and boots, while layering her look with a denim jacket and padded coat between takes.

Bridget Jones star Renee Zellweger, 55, shared her first kiss with hunky toyboy screen lover Leo Woodall, 27, while filming romantic scenes for Mad About The Boy in London on Thursday

In the upcoming film, Bridget enjoys a fling with a hunky younger lover named Rockstar, who is played by One Day star Leo

Leo looked dashing in a T-shirt and blue jacket, which he teamed with jeans and a pair of brown suede boots as they kissed one another

During the scene Renee could be seen answering the door Leo before later locking lips on the pavement

Meanwhile Leo looked dashing in a T-shirt and blue jacket, which he teamed with jeans and a pair of brown suede boots.

In the new film, Bridget enjoys a fling with Rockstar and PE teacher Mr Walker, as played by 12 Years A Slave actor Chiwetel Ejiofor as well as reviving her on-off relationship with Hugh Grant's Daniel Cleaver.

Chiwetel, 46, was seen shooting scenes last week which means only Hugh and Colin Firth  who has a small role in the movie as the late Mark Darcy  are yet to be spotted in character.

Renee and Leo were spotted filming together on May 18 in hilarious scenes as Bridget got stuck up a tree in Hampstead Heath.

Rockstar, who works as a park warden, seemingly comes to her rescue dressed in an all green uniform.

One onlooker said: 'Leo and Renee looked like they were having a great time. There were lots of giggles, they seemed to get on really well.'

Renee has been busy since she arrived in London two weeks ago to reprise her role as the singleton for the fourth, and probably final, time.

She spent four days filming at ITV's studios in White City, West London, where programmes such as This Morning and Loose Women are made.

The actress was wearing a short floral dress with a pair of black tights and boots, while layering her look with a denim jacket and padded coat between takes

The character appeared happier than ever during their sweet interaction

Leo towered over his co-star during the smooch

She was also joined on the set by a four-legged friend

The duo were in great spirits as they chatted with the crew between takes

In the new film, Bridget enjoys a fling with Rockstar and PE teacher Mr Walker, as played by 12 Years A Slave actor Chiwetel Ejiofor as well as reviving her on-off relationship with Hugh Grant's Daniel Cleaver

Chiwetel (pictured), 46, was seen shooting scenes last week which means only Hugh and Colin Firth  who has a small role in the movie as the late Mark Darcy  are yet to be spotted in character

Bridget was stuck in a love triangle with her late husband Mark Darcy (left) and her boss Daniel Cleaver (right), who was presumed dead in the last film before being found very much alive

Renee is reprising her iconic role after a seven year break following the third film, Bridget Jones's Baby

They later changed into different costumes for the moment Leo's character turned up with a dessert for Bridget

Leo donned a figure-hugging blue T-shirt which clung to his rippling muscles

He later emerged from the property with the dessert in hand

There she met presenters from both shows, including Cat Deeley who was said to have been 'super excited' at seeing her.

Many studio staff were 'overcome with excitement' and desperate to get selfies with the Hollywood star when they realised that the movie was being filmed at their workplace.

Scenes were recorded on the set used by Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly for their now defunct show Saturday Night Takeaway, while audience members from Loose Women were also asked to stay for filming of some scenes.

One source at ITV said: 'It was chaos, imagine having Bridget come to your work. It was literally a dream come true. The place was absolutely buzzing. Word got round so fast, Cat was so excited.'

Bridget's creator Helen Fielding has also been spotted at the filming as she prepares to say goodbye to the much-loved character. The film is due out on Valentine's Day next year.

It was revealed last month that Bridget's obsession with losing weight will be 'played down' in the film amid fears they might be a bad influence.

The actress put on a very animated display as she limbered up between takes

The pair discussed the scene with their director before the camera rolled

Renee refused to let the night shoot get her down and she kept co-star Leo in fits of giggles

The film is due out on Valentine's Day next year

Elsewhere, Leila Fazard was seen on the set of Bridget Jones 4 on Friday, following her headline making 2023 'affair' with BBC co-star Andrew Buchan.

Leila, 42, whose character in the movie is yet to be revealed, cut a chic figure in a long woollen coat which she layered over a stylish ensemble and teamed with a pricey Loewe bag.

Meanwhile Renee, 55, wrapped up in a padded jacket that was teamed with a plaid skirt and colourful trainers.

Isla Fisher is also starring in the hotly-anticipated movie, alongside Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson and Leo Woodall, 27, as Bridget's toy boy lover.

Leila and her Better co-star Andrew's reported relationship became public in February last year after he reportledy left his left his wife Amy Nuttall the previous December.

But then weeks later, Leila allegedly returned to her husband James Maizels, while Andrew went back to his family, with The Sun reporting that Andrew told a friend: 'We're healing.'

In July, it was claimed that Amy had set her husband seven strict rules to follow after their reunion in order to rekindle their relationship.

The seven rules included having full access to one another's phones and having a date night once a week and going on a couple's holiday every seven months.

Leila Fazard, 42, was seen on the set of Bridget Jones 4 in London on Friday, following her headline making 2023 'affair' with BBC co-star Andrew Buchan, 45,

The actress cut a sombre figure as she was spotted filming outdoor scenes with lead Renee

Leila and her Better co-star Andrew's relationship became public in February last year after he reportledy left his left his wife Amy Nuttall the previous December (Andrew and Amy pictured 2017)
She recently insisted she 'doesn't need a man to be happy'.

And Georgia Harrison proved this on Monday as she enjoyed a day at the beach with her friends during a girls' trip to Mexico.

The Love Island star, 29, looked in good spirits as she soaked up the sunshine in a tiny bikini that showcased her incredible figure.

A leopard print bikini top highlighted her toned abs while brown tie-side briefs accentuated her peachy bottom.

She finished off the look with a pair of sunglasses and sweeping her curly locks away in a ponytail.

She recently insisted she 'doesn't need a man to be happy'. And Georgia Harrison proved this on Monday as she enjoyed a day at the beach with her friends during a girls' trip to Mexico

The Love Island star, 29, looked in good spirits as she soaked up the sunshine in a tiny bikini that showcased her incredible figure

It comes after Georgia admitted she 'doesn't need a man' to be happy following her shock split from Anton Danyluk.

The ITV2 star, placed fifth on the All Stars edition of the ITV2 reality show earlier this year alongside Anton, 29, but they revealed in April that they had split and she has now claimed that perhaps romance is not her 'purpose' in life.

She told The Sun: 'I'm happy and doing what's important and stepping up to what the universe has for me.

'I'm not manifesting a man...I clearly don't do dating very well, I've done enough dating shows and they never seem to work out for me.

'I'm at a stage in my life where I literally just want to concentrate on what does work well for me. I am genuinely at the point where I don't need a man to be happy  maybe that isn't my purpose in life.'

The former couple had come to face-to-face at the BAFTAs earlier this month having arrived separately but Anton - who took model Hannah Kenyon with him - claimed that Georgia told him where to go upon spotting him.

He said: 'I saw Georgia and wanted to be civil. 'I said 'hi' and she replied "f*ck off'"...'I've been nothing but good to her. I don't understand.'

And just weeks ago, Anton publicly shut down rumours surrounding a potential romance with fellow Islander Hannah Elizabeth after they were spotted looking close.

A leopard print bikini top highlighted her toned abs while brown tie-side briefs accentuated her peachy bottom

She finished off the look with a pair of sunglasses and sweeping her curly locks away in a ponytail

Georgia was living it up as beach workers brought her drinks before she stood up to have a sip

She seemed to be engrossed by her phone as she enjoyed a relaxing day in the sunshine

She later changed into a white crochet cardigan and skirt with cowboy boots to leave the beach

Since the breakup, his 'bestie' Hannah, 33, has been a constant source of support, accompanying him to public events and nights out.

Responding to a fan on Instagram, he said: 'So this girl deserves the absolute world and any man would be luck to have her. Unfortunately, that man is not myself.

'We are the best of friends but I am more like a brother.'

They have also been very close on social media as they shared sweet pictures and funny videos of the two of them spending a lot of time together.

Former Celebs Go Dating star Georgia has been in Parliament after becoming the victim of a revenge porn scandal at the hands of ex-boyfriend Stephen Bear and insisted that she is just going to 'concentrate on the campaigning' in the future rather than pursue romance.

Since finding fame on Love Island and TOWIE in 2014, Georgia has become a regular face on reality TV and explained that while she will 'always be a face' on screen, she has ruled out ever doing a dating show again.

She claimed that she was 'absolutely terrible' at trying to document her love life in front of the cameras and believes there is 'no point' in trying again.
The top United Nations court opened a hearing Friday to deliver its decision on a request to order Israel to halt its military operation in Gaza and withdraw from the enclave. While Israel is unlikely to comply with any such order, it would heap more pressure on the increasingly isolated country.

Criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing  even from its closest ally, the United States, which has warned it against invading the southern city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought shelter from fighting elsewhere.

And this week alone, three European countries announced they would recognize a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another U.N. court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with Hamas officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under heavy pressure at home to end the war, which was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people, most civilians, and taking some 250 captive. Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing that time is running out.

While the International Court of Justice has broad powers to order an end to the Israeli military campaign and any such ruling would be a blow to Israel's international standing, it does not have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Israel signaled that it, too, would brush off an ICJ order to stop its operations.

No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, Avi Hyman, the government spokesperson, said in a press briefing Thursday.

Nawaf Salam, president of the court, opened Fridays hearing. The cease-fire request is part of a case filed late last year by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations. The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

At public hearings last week at the ICJ, South Africa's Ambassador to the Netherlands Vusimuzi Madonsela urged the panel of 15 international judges to order Israel to totally and unconditionally withdraw from the Gaza Strip.

The court has already found that Israel's military operations pose a real and imminent risk to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Israels offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas health ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. The operation has obliterated entire neighborhoods, sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes and pushed parts of the territory into famine.

This may well be the last chance for the court to act, Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh, who is part of South Africas legal team, told judges last week.

Israel rejects the claims by South Africa, a nation with historic ties to the Palestinian people.

Israel takes extraordinary measures in order to minimize the harm to civilians in Gaza, Tamar Kaplan-Tourgeman, a member of Israels legal team, told the court last week.

In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it can to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive. In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

The ICJ rules in disputes between nations. A few kilometers away, the International Criminal Court files charges against individuals it considers most responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

On Monday, its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, said he has asked ICC judges to approve arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and three top Hamas leaders  Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh  of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip and Israel.

Israel is not an ICC member, so even if the arrest warrants are issued, Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution. But the threat of arrest could make it difficult for the Israeli leaders to travel abroad. (AP)
kate moss' rocker ex-husband Jamie Hince enjoyed a 'double date' with close pal Noel Gallagher's ex-wife Sara MacDonald at Chiltern Firehouse on Thursday night.

The Oasis star and music publicist Sara ended their 12-year marriage in 2023, blaming the pandemic for putting a strain on their relationship.

As Noel, 56, remained close friends with Jamie's former love Kate, 50, following their divorce, it appears Jamie, 55, also wants to keep his bond with his friends-ex.

While Noel and Kate's friendship has remained pretty civilised, Jamie and Sara, 52, appeared closer than usual as they were seen departing the popular eatery.

Noel may want to look away now, as they're double date could just well be the start of something new.

Kate Moss' rocker ex-husband Jamie Hince, 55, enjoyed a 'double date' with close pal Noel Gallagher's ex-wife Sara MacDonald, 52, (right) at Chiltern Firehouse on Thursday night

The Oasis star, 56, and music publicist Sara ended their 12-year marriage in 2023, blaming the pandemic for putting a strain on their relationship

Supermodel Kate and Jamie wed in 2011 but called it quits after five-years, leading to their divorce in 2016.

Jamie and Sara joined happily married Lady Mary Charteris, 37, and Robbie Furze - star of electronic rock The Big Pink - for a cosy dinner.

The pair were seen giggling away as they got into a taxi after enjoying a wholesome evening catching up.

MailOnline have contacted Jamie's representatives for a comment.

Sara showed Noel what he was missing as she stepped out in a risque black top and sheer tights.

The beauty showed off her long legs in tiny black shorts and flaunted her ample cleavage in a strappy black top and lace chocker.

Noel - who is now dating new girlfriend Sally - revealed he and ex-wife Sara 'grew tired of each other' which he said was not unusual for couples in their 50s.

Sara was Noel's second wife, who he met at an Ibiza nightclub Space in 2000, a year before his divorce from his first wife Meg Matthews - the mother of his eldest child, Anais.

The former couple were notorious for a party-hard lifestyle at the height of Brit Pop in the mid '90s as they lived it up during rowdy nights with north London's notorious Primrose Hill set.

As Noel remained close friends with Jamie's former love Kate, 50, following their divorce, it appears Jamie also wants to keep his bond with his friends-ex (Noel and Kate pictured in 2012)

While Noel and Kate's friendship has remained pretty civilised, Jamie and Sara appeared closer than usual as they were seen departing the popular eatery

Noel may want to look away now, as they're double date could just well be the start of something new (Jamie, Sara and Lady Mary Charteris pictured)

Supermodel Kate and Jamie wed in 2011 but called it quits after five-years, leading to their divorce in 2016 (pictured together in 2014)

Jamie and Sara joined happily married Lady Mary Charteris, 37, and Robbie Furze for a cosy dinner

The pair were seen giggling away as they got into a taxi after enjoying a wholesome evening catching up

Sara showed Noel what he was missing as she stepped out in a risque black top and sheer tights

The beauty showed off her long legs in tiny black shorts and flaunted her ample cleavage in a strappy black top and lace chocker

Jamie channeled his inner rockstar as he wore a black leather jacket

Sara couldn't keep giggling as she departed popular celebrity hotspot with Robbie

Jamie wore oversized black linen trousers, a leather jacket and stylish white loathers

Sara and Robbie were playful as they left the eatery

Sara wowed in the sheer black tights and elevated her frame with silver black court heels

But following their split, it was reported that Noel had an affair with Sara - an allegation they both denied.

Noel and Sara, who share sons Donovan, 16, and Sonny, 13, married in 2011 at the Lime Wood Hotel in the New Forest in a 60,000 ceremony with guests including Russell Brand in attendance - but younger brother and former bandmate Liam said he wasn't invited.

Noel recently spoke for the first time about his relationship with new girlfriend Sally, admitting his 'punching about his weight'.

He told The Sun newspaper's Bizarre column: 'She's a good woman. She doesn't show up often, but it was nice to see her [at the Royal Albert Hall].

'She says she sees a steely look in my eyes. She's looked into my eyes countless times down the years. I've punched above my weight several times in my life, and I think if you can make a girl laugh the battle is more than won.

Noel and pal Jamie pictured together in 2013

Noel and Sara, who share sons Donovan, 16, and Sonny, 13, married in 2011 at the Lime Wood Hotel in the New Forest in a 60,000 ceremony

Noel - who is now dating new girlfriend Sally - revealed he and ex-wife Sara 'grew tired of each other' which he said was not unusual for couples in their 50s

Sara was Noel's second wife, who he met at an Ibiza nightclub Space in 2000, a year before his divorce from his first wife Meg Matthews - the mother of his eldest child, Anais (pictured)

'I mean, when you drop your trousers, you'd rip them off and show them the little nubbin of fury. If they do laugh, you're halfway there for a peck on the nubbin.'

Kate and Jamie tied the knot in a village church in the Cotswolds in July 2011, with the supermodel accompanied by 15 bridesmaids, including her daughter Lila Grace.

Their relationship started shortly after Kate ended her turbulent engagement to troubled rocker Pete Doherty.
Heidi Klum and her daughter Leni were spotted dining together at the Eden Roc Palace hotel after they were the toast of the amfAR Gala on Thursday evening.

The supermodel, 50, sipped an Aperol Spritz as she hung out with her lookalike daughter, 20, while chilling on the restaurant terrace at the five star resort.

The mother-daughter duo were in good company as fellow celebs Demi Moore and Joe Jonas were also pictured at the same hotel.

Demi was spotted coming over to say hello, after they all attended the annual charity gala, which is held during Cannes Film Festival.

Heidi looked sensational as she oozed boho chic in a pretty lace bralet, which she wore with a matching open blouse and a pair of blue jeans.

Heidi Klum and her daughter Leni were spotted dining together at the Eden Roc Palace hotel after they were the toast of the amfAR Gala on Thursday evening

The supermodel, 50, sipped an Aperol Spritz as she hung out with her lookalike daughter, 20, while chilling on the restaurant terrace at the five star resort

The mother-daughter duo were in good company as fellow celebs Demi Moore and Joe Jonas were also pictured at the same hotel

Demi was spotted coming over to say hello, after they all attended the annual charity gala, which is held during Cannes Film Festival

Following their meal, they were seen hopping on a tender together and heading out for the day

The German-American star wore her blonde locks in soft beachy waves and added a pair of circular sunglasses with a beaded necklace.

Meanwhile following the big night out, Leni covered up in a white hooded jacket and a pair of big black sunglasses.

Following their meal, they were seen hopping on a tender together and heading out for the day.

Demi looked chic in a black dress with a cream trim, while she kept warm with a grey jumper wrapped around her shoulders.

The actress, who is in Cannes promoting her new film The Substance, wore her black hair loose and added a pair of shades.

She was also seen chatting to Joe Jonas, who was sat on the next table to Heidi and her daughter on the terrace.

Joe was dressed casually in a light green linen shirt, over a white vest with a pair of sunglasses.

Heidi and Leni are holidaying together in the French resort town after attending the gala on Thursday.

Joe was dressed casually in a light green linen shirt, over a white vest with a pair of sunglasses

Heidi enjoyed her meal al fresco with her daughter

The German-American star wore her blonde locks in soft beachy waves and added a pair of circular sunglasses with a beaded necklace

Meanwhile following the big night out, Leni covered up in a white hooded jacket and a pair of big black sunglasses

She was also seen chatting to Joe Jonas, who was sat on the next table to Heidi and her daughter on the terrace

She took a sip of her cocktail while socialising on the terrace

They looked incredible as they attended the amfAR Cannes Gala and the later afterparty at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d'Antibes.

They opted for matching outfits as they both wore tasselled dresses for the swanky bash.

German supermodel Heidi opted for a white midi dress which she paired with an elegant white blazer.

The America's Got Talent judge added height to her frame with a pair of sparkly open toe heels and complimented her outfit with a white clutch.

Leni effortlessly turned heads in a fuchsia strapless mini dress as she posed alongside her famous mother.

The young model boosted her frame with a pair of sheer heels while she accessorised with a diamond necklace.

Styling her brunette locks into a ponytail, Leni completed her look for the evening with a light palette of makeup.

Leni is the daughter of Heidi and her businessman ex Flavio Briatore, 73, but as he was based in London and she was in Los Angeles, they did not see each other.

TMZ first reported in 2018 that Leni and Flavio had reconnected with the help of her parents. Now it seems as if they see each other now and then.

They fresh-faced display comes after they partied into the night at the amfAR gala afterparty

Heidi was spotted biting into some food

They relaxed on the front of a tender while making their way somewhere

Heidi flashed a smile while chatting to Leni

They were seen looking out to sea at something

Heidi took with her a bag full of items

Leni's siblings are Lou, 14, Johan, 17, and Henry, 18, whose father is musician Seal, 60. Seal adopted Leni in 2009 and they have stayed close to this day.

Heidi is now happily married to Tokio Hotel guitarist Tom Kaulitz.

Following on her mother's modelling footsteps, Leni has done campaigns for Dior and already landed her own magazine covers.

At the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles in March 2023, Heidi told People that she's 'very proud' of her daughter Leni.

'I'm very proud of my daughter and her modeling,' said Klum. 'And she's studying at the same time, she's juggling already.'

Leni has been very successful in modeling already. She has done campaigns for Dior and already landed her own magazine covers.

At the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles in March 2023, Heidi told People that she's 'very proud' of her daughter Leni.

She said: 'I'm very proud of my daughter and her modelling. And she's studying at the same time, she's juggling already.'
Giovanni Pernice put on a loved-up display with his girlfriend Molly Brown as the couple enjoyed a recent seaside trip.

The Strictly Come Dancing star, 33, looked in good spirits despite the ongoing BBC probe into allegations of 'serious misconduct' against him.

In one shirtless snap, Giovanni showed off his muscular physique in a pair of black shorts as he wrapped an arm around Molly.

The model looked nothing short of sensational as she displayed her toned figure in a black bikini while cosying up to her partner.

In another photo, the couple were seen behind the wheel of a convertible as they went for a drive.

Giovanni Pernice put on a loved-up display with his girlfriend Molly Brown as the couple enjoyed a recent seaside trip

In another photo, the couple were seen behind the wheel of a convertible as they went for a drive

Molly also showed off her playful side as she shared a photo of herself with Giovanni's name written on a piece of paper stuck to her forehead.

The outing comes after Molly was spotted wearing a gold band on her wedding finger, which will no doubt leave fans questioning if there was a proposal on their recent getaway to Dubai and Portugal.

After jetting back to the UK, Molly was spotted out for the first time in London wearing a smart white blazer with a pair of leggings and knee-high black boots.

The blonde beauty held up her left hand to her face, revealing the simple gold band, which will no doubt leave fans questioning if their was a proposal on their getaway.

The sighting came hours after Molly revealed her new puppy on her Instagram page on Wednesday evening, suggesting the couple had other things on their mind than the impending probe into Giovanni's behaviour.

Alongside a snap of Giovanni cuddling the Pomeranian, Molly wrote: 'Meet Roxy'.

There was no reference to the current media storm Giovanni finds himself in, following claims that Strictly bosses are bracing themselves for yet more complaints from former contestants.

The BBC are reportedly scouring nine years of footage from Strictly professional Giovanni's training sessions, as the explosive show scandal continues to rumble on.

Molly also showed off her playful side as she shared a photo of herself with Giovanni's name written on a piece of paper stuck to her forehead

The model looked stunning as she slipped into a black mini dress and white sleeveless top

It's also claimed that Amanda Abbington - one of the three stars who have filed complaints against Giovanni - has vowed to leave 'nothing unsaid' in her meeting with investigators this week.

On Monday evening, industry colleague Korina Travis, who performed with Giovanni at private functions and has no association with Strictly, accused the Italian dancer of behaving questionably when they worked together.

'Ive known him for years as a fellow competitor and he has done horrendous things to me,' she said in a statement.

She added: 'I will not speak about my experiences with him... Ill leave it at that.'

Korina works for ballroom company Burn The Floor alongside numerous former Strictly Come Dancing professionals.

She was previously considered for a role on the BBC show in 2016 before producers opted for Chloe Hewitt.

Former Strictly contestants Abbington, Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh have all been critical in their review of Pernice's methods.

According to The Sun , several women who have danced with the Italian on Strictly are contemplating joining the three existing claimants in a Beeb investigation for 'serious workplace misconduct claims'.

A source disclosed that several former dance partners of Giovanni's have been communicating privately and suggested that even more names could come forward.

The source went on to say that the future is unclear for the professional dancer, who vehemently denies any claims of threatening or abusive behaviour and has vowed to 'clear his name.'

They revealed: 'Numerous celebrities, all former partners of Gio's, have been in contact with one another behind the scenes.

Giovanni and his girlfriend recently returned from a trip to Dubai and Portugal amid furore over his 'militant' training style, with the BBC forced to investigate 'serious workplace misconduct' after three of his partners sought legal help

The sighting comes hours after Molly revealed her new pup on her Instagram page on Wednesday evening, suggesting they had other things on their mind than the impending prob into Giovanni's behaviour

Yet Pernice clearly had other things on his mind on Wednesday, as Brown took to Instagram to show off their new addition

Pernice faced further claims of workplace misconduct on Monday evening after professional dancer Korina Travis accused him of 'horrendous' behaviour

'Three women that we know of have come forward, and taken things a step further with legal action.

'But Carter Ruck, the prestigious firm acting on behalf of these stars, have quietly been speaking to one or two other potential claimants. In other words, more names could come out of the woodwork.'

The fresh claims come after he reportedly quit Strictly after the scrutiny became 'too much'.

Off the back of his departure, friends close to Amanda spoke about how she found the pro dancer 'abrasive' and would have to have 'crisis talks' with show bosses every week after being left in floods of tears at his 'tough' training method with claims it left her 'bruised '.

Amanda, who dramatically withdrew from last year's competition and was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after the show, is said to have met with Laura and Ranvir, 46, earlier this year for an 'emotional summit' to 'compare notes' about their time working with him.

Giovanni shared a post to Instagram detailing that he was 'totally surprised' by the allegations, which he denies.

He said in a statement: 'You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.

'Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.

'Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.

'I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners.

'Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!'

In recent weeks, the professional dancer has come under fire for his 'militant' training style, with the BBC forced to investigate 'serious workplace misconduct claims'

Following his statement, Giovanni was dealt a fresh blow after friend and former Strictly dance partner Rose Ayling-Ellis was said to 'not be getting involved' while he fights 'to clear his name' amid a probe into his workplace conduct.

It was believed Giovanni was still on good terms with Rose, who he won Strictly Come Dancing with in 2021.

Now though, it's been claimed that Rose is 'shocked' by the allegations but 'believes what the others are saying'.

A source told The Sun : 'Rose is finding the whole situation really tough. She had a really great experience with Gio so is really shocked by it all.

'She of course believes what others are saying but she is just trying to not get involved. She won't be speaking about it publicly.'
Daisy Ridley has opened up about how her career success affected her health after she shot to fame with her starring role in the Star Wars franchise.

The British actress, 32, made her big screen debut in 2015 as Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

However, the star has now admitted that she felt significant anxiety and stress after becoming the face of the major film project which led her to develop a 'leaky gut'.

In a new interview with The Times, the actress shared some insight into her experience at the time and discussed how high levels of anxiety led to stomach ulcers.

She said: 'Essentially, it was a leaky gut,' before noting that she was just 'knackered' from filming.

Daisy Ridley has opened up about how her career success affected her health after she shot to fame with her starring role in the Star Wars franchise

The British actress, 32, made her big screen debut in 2015 as Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens

'Id never travelled that much, or done press junkets, and my body deals with stress in a very physical way, so my gut was manifesting an emotional reaction to travelling around the world, people saying hello to me in the street. And me going, "Whats going on?" And worrying.'

The star also revealed that she worried about whether or not she was the right pick for the role and claimed it took a long time for her to feel fully confident.

It comes after it was revealed in January that Daisy would reprise the role of Rey for a new Star Wars movie.

And Star Wars director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, 45, is set to become the first woman and the first person of colour to direct a feature film for the franchise.

Sharmeen made her name as an Oscar-winning documentarian before going on to direct two episodes of the Ms Marvel series.

Throughout her career, she has received two Academy Awards, seven Emmy Awards and a Knight International Journalism Award.

Now the filmmaker is directing the next Star Wars film, Star Wars: New Jedi Order which is set to begin filming this year.

Speaking to CNN on New Year's Eve, Sharmeen said: 'I'm very thrilled about the project because I feel what we're about to create is something very special.

However, the star has now admitted that she felt significant anxiety and stress after becoming the face of the major film project which led her to develop a 'leaky gut'

'We're in 2024 now, and it's about time that we had a woman come forward to shape a story in a galaxy far, far away.'

The film has been written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and it has been confirmed that Daisy Ridley will return to play Rey.

While it is unknown who else from the cast will be returning, such as John Boyega, Oscar Isaac and Kelly Marie Tran, the film is reportedly set 15 years after the events of Star Wars: Episode IX  The Rise of Skywalker.

CNN reported the film is set to be released in 2026 after Sharmeen hinted filming will be beginning soon.

It was announced at a Star Wars Celebration event in London in April last year that Sharmeen would be taking the role of director.

Excitedly posting on Instagram she wrote: 'It has been quite a day in London....The news is OUT! I am so very excited to be directing the next Star Wars movie and bringing @daisyridley back to the galaxy...

'I have always been attracted to the hero's journey and the world definitely needs more heroes! - the blueprints of the heroes we see on screen are rooted in reality - Ive spent my life meeting real-life heroes, who have overcome the most oppressive empires and battled impossible odds and that to me is the heart of Star Wars...which is why I was attracted to the promise of a new Jedi Order

'And why I'm particularly excited about being immersed inside a Jedi Academy with a powerful Jedi Master...'

Fans were delighted for Sharmeen as they took to the comments to share their support.

It comes after Star Wars director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, 45, (pictured in 2022) is set to become the first woman and the first person of colour to direct a feature film for the franchise

Filming for Star Wars: New Jedi Order is set to begin filming this year and it has been confirmed that Daisy Ridley will return to play Rey (pictured)

One wrote: 'Huge Congratulations @sharmeenobaidchinoy May the Force be with You!'

Another added: 'I am so excited to see what you cook up! Not just to see Rey again but also to see the kind of story you and the writers will tell! Super super excited!'

Another commented: 'Congratulations @sharmeenobaidchinoy. A woman who has constantly been breaking barriers for women of Pakistan. What a proud moment !'

It was also announced that James Mangold will be directing a film based on the first Jedi to discover 'the Force', set 25,000 years before the original trilogy.

Dave Filoni, the director of the forthcoming Star Wars series Ahsoka who has been involved in numerous Star Wars projects, will be directing a new film set between episodes six and seven.

The movie will draw upon elements of the old Expanded Universe, and serve as the endpoint for story threads in several Star Wars series, including The Mandalorian.

Sharmeen, pictured with Daisy in April 2023, said: 'What we're about to create is something very special. We're in 2024 now, and it's about time that we had a woman come forward'
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Swimsuit model Devon Windsor shared a fresh look from her eponymous swimwear brand this week.

The 30-year-old star from St Louis, Missouri was seen making the most of a new summer bikini while by the seashore on a perfect day.

The cover girl had on a strappy blue suit that barely covered her impressive assets. The former Victoria's Secret pinup - who is 5ft11in - was washing at an outdoor shower after taking a swim.

And next to her was her look-alike sister Alexandra Windsor who is also in terrific shape. Alexandra is a graduate of Miami University and the COO of her sister's swim line. The Miami resident is also in a relationship with Victor James Hebditch.

Devon, who wore a pink suit last month, launched her popular self-named brand four years ago and has been modeling the collections ever since in Miami and the Bahamas.

Swimsuit model Devon Windsor shared a fresh look from her eponymous swimwear brand this week as she posed with her sister, Alexandra Windsor

The 30-year-old star from St Louis, Missouri was seen making the most of a new summer bikini while by the seashore on a perfect day

Devon appears to be at her thinnest in years after welcoming two daughters with husband Johnny Dex Barbara. In 2021 she gave birth to their first child, Enzo Elodie Barbara, and in May 2023 she welcomed their second daughter, Celine Blue Barbara.

The Vogue cover girl looked to be enjoying her time by the ocean.

Windsor looked very slender in the two piece bathing suit as her abs were on display and her legs appeared muscular with definition thanks to yoga session and daily power walks.

Devon has been a model for over a decade and has been in the swimsuit-making business for the last four years.

In 2019 she launched Devon Windsor Swim, an affordable swimwear line which also captures her personal style.

'I am super excited to announce that I am launching Devon Windsor Swim this summer !!! I have been working for the past year on this project and cannot wait to see you guys wearing it!' she announced on social media at the time.

Speaking with V Magazine about starting up the collection, she said: 'Being in the fashion industry, I was always interested in expanding my brand outside of just modeling.

'I loved the aspect of design and the creativity and freedom in being able to have your own line. Swimsuits have always been a passion of mine because I love the oceanit is where I feel most at home.

'Over the past couple of years, I have noticed a gap in the market for a swimsuit that is more than your average basic bikini, without breaking your bank.

The cover girl had on a strappy blue suit that barely covered her impressive assets

The former Victoria's Secret pinup - who is 5ft11in - was washing at an outdoor shower after taking a swim

The suits come with matching skirts which make the line perfect for beach to lunch attire

'For me, swimwear is a strong form of self-expression and something that you should feel confident and powerful in. With this in mind, I decided to create an affordable line of statement swimsuitsDevon Windsor.'

As far as what makes her collection standout in the marketplace, she said: 'I wanted this line to be a reflection of my personal style, while also being a collection and brand that everyone could find something they love.

'I also wanted the collection to be affordable, and something that carries a lot of design details. The range offers a large variety of versatile silhouettes, colors, patterns, textures and hardwareall with an immense amount of detail that went into selecting each.

In 2021 she gave birth to their first child, Enzo Elodie Barbara, and in May 2023 she welcomed their second daughter, Celine Blue Barbara

'I feel like the versatility of each piece and huge attention to detail that I put into each aspect of every design is what sets this line apart from others.'

Outside of the corporate world, Devon is a busy mother of two. She shares daughters Enzo Elodie Barbara, two, and Celine Blue Barbara, six months, with her husband Jonathan.

Devon married her businessman beau in a beachside St. Barts ceremony in 2019. Two years after they tied the knot, the Brawl in Cell Block 99 star gave birth to their first child in September 2021, a girl they christened Enzo Elodie Barbara.

The hard-working model mom announced her second pregnancy back in November 2022. She gave birth to her second daughter, Celine Blue Barbara, in early May 2023.

Discovered at the age of 14, Devon has been a professional model ever since.
Lucy Fallon was spotted filming scenes for Coronation Street in Manchester on Monday.

The actress, 28, returned to her role as journalist Bethany Platt on the ITV1 soap opera at the beginning of this year and now her character has teamed up with lawyer Dee Dee Bailey (Channique Sterling-Brown) to find out what has happened to Lauren Bolton.

The former waitress (Cait Fitton) has not been seen since February and fan favourite Roy Cropper (David Neilson) has been imprisoned after being charged with her murder.

But in new pictures, Bethany and Dee Dee are seen at a derelict pub and Joel Deering (Calum Lill) looks panic-stricken when he notices them.

The solicitor looks over his shoulder to see Bethany and his on/off girlfriend standing there, but they don't appear to notice him and he kicks his way through a fence.

Lucy Fallon was spotted filming scenes as Bethany Platt for Coronation Street in Manchester on Monday as her on-screen alter-ego tries to crack the disappearance of Lauren Bolton

But in new pictures, Bethany and Dee Dee are seen at a derelict pub and Joel Deering (Calum Lill) looks panic-stricken when he notices them.

Joel speeds off into the distance, and the two girls are stood looking on wondering what he is doing there in the first place.

In one shot , Bethany and Dee Dee seem deep in thought as they ponder what has been going on.

But in another, in what appeared to be a moment of relaxation between, takes, Lucy smiled down at her phone as she and her co-star donned red coats.

Roy has been DS Lisa Swain's (Vicky Myers) number-one suspect since he misguidedly deep-cleaned Lauren's flat after she mysteriously disappeared.

But with old scores to settle and revenge on his mind, Griff will take it upon himself to try and force a confession out of Roy.

Convinced that Roy is Lauren's killer, Griff is out for blood and Roy's life ends up in grave danger.

But as Roy awaits his trail, his life hangs in the balance of a damning piece of evidence which threw the whole case up in the air.

In new pictures, Bethany and Dee Dee are seen at a derelict pub and Joel Deering (Calum Lill) looks panic-stricken when he notices them

Joel looks on from the driving seat of his car as he suddenly looks worried to see the girls at the abadnoned pub

Joel speeds off into the distance, and the two girls are stood looking on wondering what he is doing there in the first place as he clambers through a fence

Bethany and Dee Dee look pensive as they wondr what the solicitor is doing on the scene at the abandoned pub

Lucy smiled down at her phone in between takes and she and her co-star both donned big red coats as they prepared for the outside shoot

Coronation Street has announced a special week of new episodes as they are set to reveal the truth about Lauren Bolton's disappearance, more than three months after she disappearaed

The newfound information could clear the iconic cafe owner's name.

Luckily for Roy, paedophile Nathan Curtis (Chris Harper) has been flagged on the police's radar in recent weeks.

In a gripping clip shared by ITV, the show teased an exciting week for soap lovers as they promised to unravel what happened to teenager Lauren.

TV buffs will see four episodes spread across five days, reliving the same day through the eyes of different characters
Lady Victoria Hervey had all eyes on her as she was captured chugging away from a bedazzled bottle on the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on Friday.

The English socialite, 47, captured everyone's attention as she made a glamorous entrance at the premiere of the French animated drama The Most Precious Of Cargoes.

She posed drinking from the lavish bottle, a customised edition from Judith Leiber's collection of Big Bubbles champagne bottles - which ranges in price from 390 to 4,680.

Lady Victoria flashed a sultry look to the camera guzzling the luxurious drink, stopping to strike a few poses.

The former model didn't miss another chance to own the star-studded red carpet, dazzling in a jaw-dropping bejewelled gown.

Lady Victoria Hervey had all eyes on her as she was captured chugging away from a bedazzled bottle on the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on Friday

The English socialite ensured to capture everyone's attention as she made a glamorous entrance at the premiere of French upcoming animated drama The Most Precious Of Cargoes

She posed drinking from the lavish bottle, a customised edition from Judith Leiber's collection of Big Bubbles champagne bottles - which range from 390 to 4,680

The show-stopping number was covered in countless gleaming rhinestones over a nude semi-sheer panel with gold sequinned embellishments.

The incredible dress also presented stylish large shoulder pads, giving a touch of regality to her ensemble - and a split hem in the maxi sleeves which opened up graciously.

Her ageless physique was enhanced by a risky thigh-high split, and finished off with sparkling ankle-wrap strappy heels.

The aristocrat's gown displayed a floor-length train skirt, and she finished off accessorising with a slew of gleaming gold rings.

Her blonde locks were tied up into a ponytail as she beamed cheerfully for the lense.

Earlier on Thursday evening, the former It Girl attended the annual amfAR Cinema Against AIDS gala amid the 77th Cannes Film Festival.

She looked nothing short of sensational in a black floor-length gown which boasted a semi-sheer design.

The chic ensemble, which showed a glimpse of Victoria's slender figure, boasted a sheer floral velvet bust and featured a long satin train.

Lady Victoria flashed a sultry look to the camera guzzling the luxurious drink

She stopped to strike a few poses as she made her latest appearance on the penultimate day of the festival

The former model didn't miss another chance to own the star-studded red carpet

The show-stopping number was covered in countless gleaming rhinestones over a nude semi-sheer panel with gold sequinned embellishments

The incredible dress also presented stylish large shoulder pads, giving a touch of regality to her ensemble and a split hem in the maxi sleeves which opened up graciously

Her ageless physique was enhanced by a risky thigh-high split, and finished off with sparkling ankle-wrap strappy heels

Earlier in the day, she was captured posing with the lavish bottle at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes

She flashed a happy smile while making her way to the car in the head-turning ensemble

The socialite further accessorised the look with a pair of diamond gold earrings and carried a mini black clutch bag.

Victoria showed off her age-defying beauty as she struck up a pose on the red carpet and styled her luscious locks in voluminous waves.

Each year, the gala held in Cannes brings a slew of A-listers to the south of France to bring awareness and raise funds for the nonprofit.

Cannes is the world's biggest film festival, first conceived in 1939 as an alternative to the then-fascist-influenced Venice Film Festival.

It has been held annually since 1946 except in 1948 and 1950, when it was cancelled due to lack of funds.

The festival is known for its carefully selected programme of films that have gone on to Oscar glory or launched the careers of directors like Quentin Tarantino.

Cannes' top prize is the Palme d'Or, or Golden Palm, whose past winners include Taxi Driver, Apocalypse Now, Pulp Fiction, The Pianist and Parasite.

Jane Campion became the first female director to win in 1993 with The Piano, followed by a nearly three-decade gap until Julia Ducournau received the award for Titane in 2021.

Justine Triet became only the third female director to take the prize last year with Anatomy of a Fall.

There is also an honorary Palme d'Or, which is awarded in recognition of notable bodies of work, with past recipients including Harrison Ford, Jane Fonda and Clint Eastwood.

There are two honorary winners this year: George Lucas of 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones' fame, and Japanese animation legend Studio Ghibli, the first group to receive the prize.

Other awards include the Grand Prix, jury prize, best director, best actor, best actress, best screenplay and best short film.
Barbara Eden was spotted looking vibrant and spry at age 92 on Friday.

It has been almost 60 years after she put on the famous ab-baring costume to play Jeannie opposite Larry Hagman in the beloved sitcom I Dream Of Jeannie.

The legendary actress was leaving a restaurant in Los Angeles with friends.

Barbara looked very stylish in a red blazer over a silky white camisole with black slacks and black-and-white wedge-heeled shoes.

The former Harper Valley PTA actress wore a bejeweled necklace to accessorize her chick look as her blonde hair was partially pulled back.

Barbara Eden was spotted out looking vibrant and spry at age 92 almost 60 years after she put on the famous ab-baring costume to play Jeannie in I Dream of Jeannie

Barbara carried a large black handbag under one arm and had a big smile on her face as she got in her limousine to travel to her next destination in style.

The Tucson, Arizona born, and San Francisco raised beauty starred in the hit sitcom I Dream Of Jeannie from from 1965 to 1970.

Eden started her career in 1956 with a string of guest-starring spots in shows like I Love Lucy, Gunsmoke and Perry Mason, before I Dream Of Jeannie.

The NBC Television series launched in 1965 and became an instant hit with fans and critics alike.

The network series ran for five seasons (139 episodes) and has been airing continuously on cable and in syndication in the United States and abroad for more than five decades.

She reprised her Jeannie role in the 1985 TV movie I Dream Of Jeannie... Fifteen Years Later and the 1991 TV movie I Still Dream Of Jeannie.

During her long and illustrious career, Barbara has starred in 25 feature films, five network TV series, 19 top-rated network made-for-television movies, including the Hallmark Television special Always And Forever.

She also starred opposite Elvis Presley in the 1960 movie Flaming Star, the movie that Elvis believed was his best performance on the big screen.

The legendary actress was spotted leaving a restaurant in Los Angeles with friends on Friday. Barbara looked very stylish in a red blazer over a silky white camisole with black pants and black and white wedge-heeled shoes

The former Harper Valley PTA actress wore a pretty bejeweled costume jewelry necklace to accessorize her chick look

She is still in amazing shape and could slip right back into her old harem girl costume that was scandalous in the 1960s when the beloved sitcom also starring the late Larry Hagman aired

I Dream of Jeannie is an American fantasy sitcom television series created by Sidney Sheldon that starred Barbara Eden as a sultry, 2,000-year-old genie

She also starred opposite Elvis Presley in the 1960 movie Flaming Star, the movie that Elvis believed was his best performance on the big screen

I Dream Of Jeannie is an American fantasy sitcom television series created by Sidney Sheldon that starred Eden as a sultry, 2,000-year-old genie.

The show debuted in 1965.

Jeannie is discovered in her bottle by an astronaut named Major Tony Nelson (played by Hagman). He rubs the strange bottle, which he found on a beach in the South Pacific after landing in a space capsule, and out comes Jeannie.

The two characters quickly fell in love.

Of course, Major Nelson must keep her a secret lest he jeopardize his career as an astronaut. The show ended in 1970.
Jenna Dewan showcased her growing baby bump while leaving a park in Los Angeles on Thursday afternoon.

The 43-year-old actress wore a tight-fitting gray dress underneath a dark green jacket as she held the hand of her son Callum, four, while heading back to her car.

The performer - who is currently preparing for a legal battle with her ex - kept it casual while wearing a pair of Adidas Samba sneakers, and she finished off her look with a pair of dark sunglasses.

Dewan's beautiful brunette hair remained free-flowing and fell over her shoulders.

The professional dancer shares Callum with her fiance of four years, Steve Kazee, whom she initially began seeing in 2018.

Jenna Dewan showcased her growing baby bump while leaving a park in Los Angeles on Thursday afternoon

Before she became involved with the Tony Award-winning actor, the performer was married to Channing Tatum, whom she met while working on the 2006 film Step Up.

The pair tied the knot in 2009 and welcomed a daughter named Everly, 10, in 2013, although they split up and divorced in 2019.

Dewan eventually moved on with Kazee, 48, and they became engaged in February of 2020.

The happy couple went on to start a family with Callum's birth, which took place the following month.

The cast member of The Rookie announced in January that she had become pregnant for the third time.

Although she is currently preparing to welcome another child into her life, Dewan is also engaged in a legal battle with Tatum over profits from the intellectual property associated with Tatum's Magic Mike film series.

The actor starred as the titular stripper in Magic Mike, Magic Mike XXL and Magic Mike's Last Dance, which were released in 2012, 2015 and 2023, respectively.

According to People, the actress and her former husband are preparing for a trial, during which they will determine a financial settlement for their divorce.

The 43-year-old actress wore a tight-fitting gray dress underneath a dark green jacket as she held the hand of her son Callum, four, while heading back to her car

The performer - who is currently preparing for a legal battle with her ex - finished off her look with a pair of dark sunglasses

The professional dancer shares Callum with her fiance of four years, Steve Kazee, whom she initially began seeing in 2018; seen in 2019

Although she is currently preparing to welcome another child into her life, Dewan is also engaged in a legal battle with Tatum over profits from the intellectual property associated with Tatum's Magic Mike film series; they are seen in 2017

A representative for Dewan spoke to the media outlet and stated that she was 'just looking for a fair resolution of community assets of the marriage, under California State Law.'

They added: 'Jenna wants to reach a final determination and close this chapter on her life as soon as possible.'

However, a source connected to Tatum spoke to People and stated that the actress' actions were the reason why the process of planning the trial had become difficult.

They stated that the case 'dragged on' because the actress' claims continuously contradict themselves.'
Those who live orthodox lives  and adhere to conventional marriages  may be perplexed by the free-wheeling set-up at Belvoir, ancestral seat of the Duke of Rutland, where, since separating in 2012, he and the Duchess have occupied different wings of the castle, with their respective lovers joining them as the mood and moment takes them.

Now, I can disclose, the 11th Duke, David Manners, 65, is about to startle observers once more, by parading in public, in London, with the lushly named, Brazilian-born Andrea Burle Schmidt Dubeux Webb.

The timing is made more piquant by the fact that her divorce from her husband, Bernard Webb, was being finalised in the Family Division of the High Court in London this week.

The prospect of a public appearance would once have seemed a perfectly natural development in the couple's relationship, which began after Andrea, now 61, moved to a property on the 15,000-acre Belvoir estate in Leicestershire  and soon caught the Duke's eye.

The 11th Duke, David Manners, 65, is about to startle observers once more, by parading in public, in London, with the lushly named, Brazilian-born Andrea Burle Schmidt Dubeux Webb. Pictured together at The Royal Caledonian Ball in 2017

The Duke of Rutland and the Duchess (pictured together in 2007) have occupied different wings of the castle since separating in 2012, with their respective lovers joining them as the mood and moment takes them

Belvoir Castle (pictured) is the ancestral seat of the Duke of Rutland

Thereafter, they were ensconced together in the Duke's half of the castle, while the Duchess, Emma, speedily consoled herself by embarking on an affair of her own, at her end of Belvoir, with the estate's manager, Phil Burtt.

But in 2018 Andrea's time at the castle was abruptly curtailed. Expecting to host a shooting weekend with the Duke, she was about to dress for dinner on the Friday evening  using the Duke's bedroom  when staff told her that she should leave.

A stand-off followed, with staff barring entry to the bedroom while Andrea insisted that she would only leave if told to do so by the Duke himself.

However, three years later, the Duke established a new company with an old chum  none other than Andrea. He assures me that it's ready for its launch. 'It's on June 6 at the Brazilian ambassador's residence in London,' he says.

The venture is what might be termed the full Brazilian.

'It's promoting the work of [Brazilian artist] Roberto Burle Marx throughout the world,' says the Duke, describing it as 'mostly educational', though also aiming to raise money for the preservation of the rainforest.

Asked if he and Andrea are a couple again, the Duke replies, teasingly: 'The answer to your question is Yes and No.'
Poppy Delevingne's romance with Archie Keswick, which I disclosed a fortnight ago, is getting serious. The model, 38, is already introducing the scion of the multi-billion-pound Jardine Matheson empire to her parents.

Poppy was spotted with Eton-educated Archie at Dorian restaurant in Notting Hill, West London, where they were joined by her father, the property developer Charles Delevingne, 74.

During lunch, Poppy popped out for a vape and a canoodle with Archie, an ex-boyfriend of Hollywood star Sienna Miller who has been described as 'the most eligible bachelor you've never heard of'.

Poppy Delevingne's pictured with her lover Archie Keswick at the Michelin-starred Dorian restaurant in Notting Hill, West London

The couple were joined by her father, the property developer Charles Delevingne, 74

During lunch, Poppy popped out for a vape and a canoodle with Archie, an ex-boyfriend of Hollywood star Sienna Miller who has been described as 'the most eligible bachelor you've never heard of'

Poppy Delevingne puts on a VERY leggy display in a grey tulle gown at Cannes Film Festival's The Count of Monte Cristo premiere

By Codie Bullen

Poppy Delevingne turned heads as she arrived on the red carpet for the premiere of The Count Of Monte Cristo during the 77th Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday.

The socialite, 38, put on a very leggy display in a grey tulle gown with a sheer skirt, allowing a glimpse at her satin hotpants underneath.

Her ruched dress also boasted a plunging neckline to showcase her ample cleavage, and she ensured all eyes were on her with a dazzling diamond necklace.

The sister of Cara Delevingne finished off her ethereal look with a pair of gold strappy high heels and yellow bejewelled earrings.

Earlier in the day, Poppy looked typically chic in a black strapless minidress as she left the Hotel Martinez.

Poppy Delevingne turned heads as she arrived on the red carpet for the premiere of The Count Of Monte Cristo during the 77th Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday

The socialite, 38, put on a very leggy display in a grey tulle gown with a sheer skirt, allowing a glimpse at her satin hotpants underneath

Cannes is the world's biggest film festival, first conceived in 1939 as an alternative to the then-fascist-influenced Venice Film Festival.

It has been held annually since 1946 except in 1948 and 1950, when it was cancelled due to lack of funds.

The festival is known for its carefully selected programme of films that have gone on to Oscar glory or launched the careers of directors like Quentin Tarantino .

Cannes' top prize is the Palme d'Or, or Golden Palm, whose past winners include Taxi Driver, Apocalypse Now, Pulp Fiction, The Pianist and Parasite.

Jane Campion became the first female director to win in 1993 with The Piano, followed by a nearly three-decade gap until Julia Ducournau received the award for Titane in 2021.

Justine Triet became only the third female director to take the prize last year with Anatomy of a Fall.

Her ruched dress also boasted a plunging neckline to showcase her ample cleavage, and she ensured all eyes were on her with a dazzling diamond necklace

Poppy wore her blonde hair parted to the side and styled in soft Hollywood waves, while sporting smoky eyeshadow and deep pink lipstick

She sported a bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features

There is also an honorary Palme d'Or, which is awarded in recognition of notable bodies of work, with past recipients including Harrison Ford , Jane Fonda and Clint Eastwood.

There are two honorary winners this year: George Lucas of 'Star Wars' and ' Indiana Jones' fame, and Japanese animation legend Studio Ghibli, the first group to receive the prize.

Other awards include the Grand Prix, jury prize, best director, best actor, best actress, best screenplay and best short film.

The Cannes Film Festival officially kicked off on Tuesday night as celebrities walked the red carpet into the plush Grand Theatre Lumiere to honour Hollywood actor Meryl Streep before settling in to watch this year's opening film, The Second Act.

Almost as prestigious as winning the Palme d'Or, the Cannes Film Festival's top prize, is being on the jury that picks the winner.

Artists from around the world who have made a name for themselves in their respective field are picked to sit on the jury, with one member designated as jury president.

The train on her gown fluttered in the breeze as she climbed the stairs to the screening

She flashed her dazzling white smile for the camera

This year's jury president, U.S. director Greta Gerwig , comes to Cannes after the massive success last summer of Barbie.

She is the first female U.S. director to serve as jury president, taking the baton from the head of the 2023 jury, Triangle of Sadness director and two-time Palme d'Or winner, Ruben Ostlund of Sweden.

The breakout star of Martin Scorsese 's Killers of the Flower Moon, Lily Gladstone returns to Cannes after becoming the first Native American woman to be nominated for an Oscar and winning a Golden Globe award for her performance.

One of the writers of the 2014 Palme d'Or-winning film Winter Sleep, Turkish photographer, actor and screenwriter Ebru Ceylan is a familiar face at the festival.

Her first short film, On the Edge, was selected to compete at Cannes in 1998, and she has co-written several movies that were in the main competition line-up, including About Dry Grasses, Three Monkeys and The Wild Pear Tree.

One of the select few women who have starred in a James Bond film, French actor Eva Green is also on the jury.

She has an eclectic resume that includes Ridley Scott's Kingdom of Heaven, smaller-scale projects like Nocebo and TV series Penny Dreadful.

The 12-time winner of Spain 's prestigious Goya Awards, Spanish director Juan Antonio Bayona is on the jury.

He gained international recognition in 2007 with his first feature-length horror movie The Orphanage, produced by award-winning Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro .

Poppy had a facial from Shane Cooper ahead of the party to get her skin looking perfect

His latest, the survival drama and Netflix hit 'Society of the Snow,' netted the director an Oscar nomination for best international feature film at this year's ceremony.

After making a name with 2018's Capernaum, which earned her Golden Globe, BAFTA and Oscar nominations, Lebanese director and screenwriter Nadine Labaki, who has long had ties to Cannes, adds jury member to her list of accolades.

One of Italy's most famous actors with a parallel Hollywood career, Pierfrancesco Favino is no stranger to Cannes, having appeared in the competition films The Traitor, directed by Marco Bellocchio, and Mario Martone's Nostalgia and now on the jury.

Winner of the 2018 Palme d'Or for Shoplifters, which also nabbed an Oscar nomination, acclaimed Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda returns as a main competition jury member after his film Monster won best screenplay at last year's festival.

With a Cesar award - France's equivalent of an Oscar - under his belt for The Intouchables as well as several successful blockbusters, French actor Omar Sy is a Cannes veteran.

The actor with parts in X-Men: Days of Future Past and Jurassic World starred in the opening film of the 2022 Un Certain Regard section at Cannes, Father & Soldier, and will now serve on the jury.
Katie Price was issued with a parking ticket as she visited London's Clapham to record an episode of her podcast on Friday.

The former glamour model, 46, was seen with her boyfriend JJ Slater, 30, as she parked her pink Range Rover before laying down the latest instalment of her podcast The Katie Price Show.

She wore a cropped white top which left her stomach tattoos on show and donned some pink tracksuit bottoms for her outing.

Reality star Katie shielded her eyes behind some dark sunglasses and was followed by partner JJ, who rose to fame on Channel 4's Married At First Sight UK last year.

The former Celebrity Big Brother winner found herself in another unfortunate situation with the parking ticket following confirmation for the first time this week she's finally moving out of her Mucky Mansion after she was served an eviction notice to leave the property.

Katie Price was issued with a parking ticket as she visited London's Clapham to record an episode of her podcast on Friday

The former glamour model, 46, was seen with her boyfriend JJ Slater, 30, as she parked her pink Range Rover, with the parking ticket later being slapped on her windscreen

Katie stepped out to lat down the latest instalment of her podcast The Katie Price Show in London

The mother-of-five revealed she will soon be collecting the keys for a new home and denied recent reports she was looking to move her family into a caravan.

After nine years, Katie says she 'can't wait' to relocate and admits, 'I've had nothing but bad memories in that house', insisting moving will be the start of a new chapter in her life.

Former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! campmate Katie was declared bankrupt for a second time in March over an unpaid tax bill of 761,994.05.

Speaking about the West Sussex property, branded the 'Mucky Mansion' because of its constant state of disrepair, Katie said: 'I absolutely hate the Mucky Mansion, even how it's been called the Mucky Mansion because of all the stuff that happened there before.

'I can't wait to get out of that house I've had nothing but bad memories in that house for nine years. I hate the Mucky Mansion, I never want to see it again and I can't wait to move into my new place, I am so excited.

'New beginnings, new start, reset button, I love it.

'But don't worry, I'll be featuring my new house on my YouTube channel when I get the keys and welcoming you to my new house, I can't wait, I just want to get rid of all the bad stuff in the past and have a fresh start.

'Although I would love a big caravan, it wouldn't fit us all in so it's definitely not a caravan I'm moving into.'

She wore a cropped white top which left her tattoos on show while JJ wore a grey hoodie and some white shorts

Reality star Katie and her partner JJ, who rose to fame on Channel 4's Married At First Sight UK last year, where away from the vehicle when it was seen by a parking attendant

JJ was seen chatting on the phone while Katie was recording her podcast but spotted the parking ticket on the car

He collected the yellow ticket after it was issues to hand to Katie when she returned to the car

Katie found herself in another unfortunate situation with the parking ticket following confirmation for the first time this week she's finally moving out of her Mucky Mansion

Katie, who's a mum to Harvey Price, 21, as well as Junior, 18, and Princess, 16, who she shares with Peter Andre and Jett, 10, and Bunny, nine, from her relationship with Kieran Hayler, was first declared bankrupt in 2019.

In March, she became bankrupt for a second time after she failed to pay her taxes, saying the reason she has debts is because she went through a 'breakdown.'

Speaking on the Stripping Off podcast with Matt Haycox, Katie said she wasn't even aware of the second bankruptcy, insisting, 'I will pay it, but it just has to be when I've got it.'

She said: 'Yeah, you should always pay your tax, this and that. But obviously, I went through a breakdown so then I didn't pay tax and that's sort of where the bankruptcy thing has come from.'

Katie has been given until June 26 to leave the Mucky Mansion, which became the subject of a Channel 4 documentary when she attempted to install life back into the property for the last time.

She was served an eviction notice to leave the property and will soon be collecting the keys for a new home and denied recent reports she was looking to move her family into a caravan (JJ pictured)

During an Instagram live on Tuesday, she confirmed there will be no further renovation shows based around the house, saying, 'Is there going to be anymore Mucky Mansions shows? No.'

She was served an eviction notice on April 24 and told to leave by the end of May but has been given an extension by her mortgage provider.

Katie was due to give evidence at the High Court over her finances last month but failed to turn up because she was on holiday in Cyprus with boyfriend JJ.

The 'Mucky Mansion' earned its nickname following years of damage to the property, including flooding, burglaries, mould and even reports of it being haunted.
Hailey Bieber seems to have revealed the gender of her baby she is having with her husband Justin Bieber.

In a cryptic social media post shared on Friday, the 27-year-old wrote, 'Little cherry blossoms on my nails, little cherry blossom in my belly.'

Given that cherry blossoms are pink, fans took this as confirmation that Hailey is expecting a daughter.

'Ok so its a girl,' commented one, while another wrote, 'Baby Bieber is a girl.'

'Is it a girl. Are you going to name her blossom? Or a flower name?' asked another fan.

Hailey Bieber seems to have revealed the gender of her baby with husband Justin Bieber on Instagram on Friday

In a cryptic social media post on Friday, the 27-year-old wrote, 'Little cherry blossoms on my nails, little cherry blossom in my belly' - leading fans to believe she's having a girl

Hailey also posted a gallery of photos to Instagram, with a few of the images showing her growing baby bump while husband Justin appeared in some others.

Fans of the couple recently cooked up a bizarre conspiracy theory about what the baby's name could be.

In recent weeks, both fans and trolls on social media have suggested that the happy couple name the bub Emory Bieber - which just so happens to be Selena Gomez's dream baby name.

At an event in 2010, Gomez gushed about her love of the unique name.

'I've had these names picked out for a while,' she told fans in the audience.

'I like Emory. Which is E-M-O-R-Y. Insert my husband's last name,' she continued, before adding, 'Yeah, Emory Bieber.'

Now fans on social media have dug up the interview and are urging Hailey to use the name for her child with Bieber.

The cover girl was also seen with a red strawberry sticker on her forehead

'Ok so its a girl,' commented one, while another wrote, 'Baby Bieber is a girl'

Hailey also posted a gallery of photos to Instagram, with a few of the images showing her growing baby bump

'Hailey should name the child Emory just for s***s and giggles,' one posted to X.

'If Hailey was REAL like REALLL bad mind shed name their baby Emory,' wrote another, while one posted, 'Wouldnt it just be funny if Hailey named her kid Emory.'

The suggestions enraged one loyal Selena fan, who took to X to blast Hailey on the off chance that she does indeed follow through and use the name.

'I swear to Jesus if Hailey Bieber is having a girl & she REALLY chooses the name Emory instead of ANY OTHER BABY NAME THAT B***H CAN USE- god better NEVER let me meet her cause I'll do a good one for Selena. idc b***h be so f***ing for real. theres only ONE NAME U CANT USE,' they raged.

Earlier this month, Hailey revealed her pregnancy - with the pair unveiling Hailey's baby bump during a surprise vow renewal in Hawaii.

She announced her pregnancy joy with a beautiful video debuting her bump in a custom Saint Laurent lace wedding dress by Anthony Vaccarello, paired with a flowing veil.

Justin and wife Hailey are currently expecting their first child together, and fans of the couple have cooked up a bizarre conspiracy theory about what the baby's name could be

In recent weeks, some fans and trolls on social media have suggested that the happy couple name the bub Emory Bieber - which just so happens to be Selena Gomez's dream baby name

Justin and Selena dated on and off between 2010 and 2018. (Pictured in 2012)

The star and the Canadian crooner - who recently sparked concern with a crying selfie - shared a sweet kiss as they celebrated their news during their outdoor ceremony - with Hailey sporting a new diamond ring.

The pair also both wore Tiffany Forever bands  made of platinum with a full circle of diamonds  to celebrate their vow renewal, as per People.

Justin - who was casually clad in a backwards cap, bomber jacket and jeans - was seen filming his bride cradling her bump - with the video set to a new track by the Grammy winner.

Justin and Selena dated on and off between 2010 and 2018.

Following their final breakup, Justin created shockwaves when he quickly turned his attentions to Hailey Baldwin, before marrying her in 2018.
Jennifer Lopez's latest film Atlas premiered on Netflix on Friday, but it hit the service amid a wave of withering negative reviews from film critics.

The science-fiction thriller earned a disappointing 14 percent rotten rating from the most prestigious critics surveyed by Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a solid wave pans.

Metacritic, which accounts for the strength of pans and praise, assigned the film a score of 38 out of 100, indicating 'generally unfavorable' reviews.

Lopez  who has been inundated by rumors of a split with her husband Ben Affleck in recent weeks  stars in Atlas Shepherd as a data analyst involved in tracking down a computer-based artificial intelligence that turned homicidal nearly 30 years earlier, leading a rebellion against humans that left three million people dead.

Atlas has a personal stake in the efforts to find and destroy the AI, which is named Harlan (and played by Simu Liu), as her mother was responsible for creating it decades earlier, before it murderer her along with millions more.

Jennifer Lopez's latest film Atlas premiered on Netflix on Friday, but it hit the service amid a wave of withering negative reviews from film critics; still from Atlas

The science-fiction thriller earned a disappointing 14 percent rotten rating from the most prestigious critics surveyed by Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a solid wave pans; pictured Tuesday in Mexico

Lopez, 54, joins a group of soldier with mechanized suits trying to track down Harlan, including Sterling K. Brown as Colonel Elias Banks and Mark Strong as General Jake Boothe.

But several reviewers criticized the 'formulaic' story and Atlas' lack of original elements, raising the question of whether an AI-penned screenplay might have been an improvement.

New York Times film critic Alissa Wilkinson wrote that Atlas looks 'cheap' and 'plasticky,' and it 'feels like pure pastiche' at times.

'Science fiction often earns its place in memory by envisioning something new and startling  but with Atlas, weve seen it all before,' she wrote.

Benjamin Lee gave Atlas two out of five stars for The Guardian and compared the film to the kinds of 'dumb, irony-free schlock' blockbusters that used to be a regular fixture of Memorial Day Weekend two decades ago.

However, he thought the Netflix film suffered from the faults of many earlier films released by the streamer that have tried to ape those bygone big-budget hits.

'As with many of the streamer's other mockbusters  its more naked attempts to compete with the biggest of boys  its all too synthetic and serious to possess anything close to self-awareness,' he wrote.

Variety's Todd Gilchrist called Atlas 'underwhelming,' and he compared it to the mediocre films Lopez has primarily made in the last couple decades, rather than the early success that made her a star, including Selena (1997) and Out Of Sight (1998).

He bemoaned Lopez turning to a 'generic sci-fi adventure' like Atlas after her Oscar-snubbed role in Hustlers, and he assigned much of the blame to the film's screenplay by Leo Sardarian and Aron Eli Coleite.

New York Times film critic Alissa Wilkinson wrote that Atlas looks 'cheap' and 'plasticky,' and it 'feels like pure pastiche' at times; still from Atlas

Several critics noted that Atlas suffers from a formulaic screenplay. William Bibbiani complained in The Wrap that it fails to develop something new despite allusions to classic sci-fi and action films; still from Atlas

Among the few positive reviews, Angie Han gave mild praise in The Hollywood Reporter , writing that 'Lopezs chemistry elevates otherwise unremarkable dialogue into passably amusing, occasionally touching banter'; seen in LA in March 2023

In The Wrap, William Bibbiani called the dialogue 'generic' and accused Atlas of suffering from an 'embarrassing plot' with 'mediocre action.'

He mocked the film for its seemingly cheap atmosphere, including an alien planet that looks 'suspiciously... [like] Northern California' and the AI villain's lair, which 'seems to have been modeled after an abandoned warehouse.'

Among the few positive reviews, Angie Han gave mild praise in The Hollywood Reporter, writing that 'Lopezs chemistry elevates otherwise unremarkable dialogue into passably amusing, occasionally touching banter.'

Brian Lowry gave the film modest praise for CNN, writing that Peyton 'keeps the story moving with a check-your-brain-at-the-door level of efficiency, relying on the shorthand of how familiar almost every beat of it feels.'
Could a Bravo-lebrity redemption be in store for Stassi Schroeder?

Andy Cohen revealed that he proposed a potential return to reality television for the Vanderpump Rules alumna, 35, when they reunited at the West Hollywood opening of Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney's Something About Her sandwich shop.

'I think I might have thrown something out there as I always like to,' admitted Cohen, 55, to Us Weekly.

He admitted missing having Schroeder on the show, four years after she and Kristen Doute were fired over a racist stunt against former costar Faith Stowers.

'I had a great reconnect with her,' said Cohen following last weekend's soft launch of Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney's long-awaited sandwich shop.

Andy Cohen revealed he proposed a potential return to reality television for Stassi Schroeder, 35, when they reunited at the West Hollywood opening of Something About Her

'I think I might have thrown something out there as I always like to,' admitted Cohen to Us Weekly after they had 'a really nice reconnect'

'I haven't seen her since 2020. It was great to see her,' he added. 'She looks like a million bucks and she's a happy mom.'

Cohen said, 'She and I, we went deep [and] we had a really nice reconnect.'

Although the Watch What Happens Live host could see Schroeder 'fitting in anywhere' across the Bravo lineup, Cohen is not sure she's ready for a return to reality television.

Stowers, 34, filed a lawsuit last month against Bravo and NBCUniversal for discrimination, retaliation and enabling an unsafe work environment on set.

Included in the complaint were previous allegations that Schroeder and Doute, 41, had committed a 'brazen and defamatory campaign' of 'racial harassment' against her during her recurring stint on season four.

She previously claimed the women had filed a false police report in 2018 listing Stowers as the assailant when the only similarities between her and a suspect were their gender and skin color.

After Schroeder and Doute were fired  along with Max Boyens and Brett Caprioni  the Amazing Race alumna expressed regret on the Tamron Hall Show.

'I'm so embarrassed that I even had those thoughts, much less put it out there,' said Schroeder in her first interview after being fired.

'I was that Karen. I was a Karen,' she admitted. 'I was a Karen who basically said, but what about All Lives Matter?'

Although the Watch What Happens Live host could see Schroeder 'fitting in anywhere' across the Bravo lineup, Cohen is not sure she's ready for a return to reality television; Stassi pictured in January in LA

Schroeder and Kristen Doute were fired from Vanderpump Rules in 2020 after Faith Stowers claimed the women had filed a false police report in 2018 listing her as an alleged assailant

Stowers filed a lawsuit last month against Bravo and NBCUniversal for discrimination, retaliation and enabling an unsafe work environment on set

Schroeder's agent and publicist dropped her over the allegations, which also resulted in her podcast Straight Up With Stassi being removed from all platforms.

The Off With My Head author starred on Vanderpump Rules for eight seasons, starting with its 2013 debut.

She tied the knot with Beau Clark in Italy in May 2022 after welcoming their first child, daughter Hartford Charlie Rose, three.

Schroeder and Clark, 44, welcomed their second child, a son named Messer Rhys, in September.
George Lucas sweetly held hands with his wife Mellody Hobson as he accepted an honorary Palme d'Or on the penultimate day of the Cannes Film Festival on Friday.

The Academy Award-winning filmmaker, 80, looked handsome in a navy blue suit and a blue tartan shirt, dressing down in white Nike trainers.

Mellody, 55, who married George in 2013, is the current chairwoman of Starbucks and the former chairwoman of DreamWorks, and she showed off her eye-catching sense of style in a yellow co-ord.

The Honorary Palme d'Or is an award given to directors or actors who had achieved a notable body of work but who had never won a competitive Palme d'Or.

A Palme d'Or is the highest prize awarded at the Festival and is considered one of the film industry's most prestigious awards.

George Lucas, 80, sweetly held hands with his wife Mellody Hobson, 55, as he accepted an honorary Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday

The Academy Award-winning filmmaker looked handsome in a navy blue suit and a blue tartan shirt, dressing down in white Nike trainers

Mellody, the current chairwoman of Starbucks and the former chairwoman of DreamWorks, looked gorgeous in a yellow co-ord

George is known for creating the Star Wars franchise and co-creating the Indiana Jones franchise with Menno Meyjes.

Also receiving a Palme D'Or in 2024 was Meryl Streep and Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli.

Upon receiving the honour, Meryl, 74, told The Hollywood Reporter, she wrote: 'I am immeasurably honored to receive the news of this prestigious award.

'To win a prize at Cannes, for the international community of artists, has always represented the highest achievement in the art of filmmaking.

'To stand in the shadow of those who have previously been honored is humbling and thrilling in equal part. I so look forward to coming to France to thank everyone in person this May!'

In a joint statement, Cannes festival heads Iris Knobloch and Thierry Fremaux wrote: 'We all have something in us of Meryl Streep!

'We all have something in us of Kramer vs. Kramer, Sophies Choice, Out of Africa, The Bridges of Madison County, The Devil Wears Prada and Mamma Mia!

'Because she has spanned almost 50 years of cinema and embodied countless masterpieces, Meryl Streep is part of our collective imagination, our shared love of cinema.'

The Honorary Palme d'Or is an award given to directors or actors who had achieved a notable body of work but who had never won a competitive Palme d'Or

A Palme d'Or is the highest prize awarded at the Festival and is considered one of the film industry's most prestigious awards

George is known for creating the Star Wars franchise and co-creating the Indiana Jones franchise with Menno Meyjes

George put a hand up in greeting as a wall of photographers behind him all raised their cameras

He spread his arms out on the podium and stared straight ahead

George then leant on the large white podium as the photographers took more photos

He posed in front of Cannes stunning marine backdrop

George looked off and gave a thumbs up as his segment of the day drew to a close

Past winners of the Palme d'Or include Jane Fonda, Forest Whitaker, and Jodie Foster.

Cannes is the world's biggest film festival, first conceived in 1939 as an alternative to the then-fascist-influenced Venice Film Festival.

It has been held annually since 1946 except in 1948 and 1950, when it was cancelled due to lack of funds.

The festival is known for its carefully selected programme of films that have gone on to Oscar glory or launched the careers of directors like Quentin Tarantino.

Cannes' top prize is the Palme d'Or, or Golden Palm, whose past winners include Taxi Driver, Apocalypse Now, Pulp Fiction, The Pianist and Parasite.

Jane Campion became the first female director to win in 1993 with The Piano, followed by a nearly three-decade gap until Julia Ducournau received the award for Titane in 2021.

Justine Triet became only the third female director to take the prize last year with Anatomy Of A Fall.

Also at Cannes Film Festival is the honorary Palme d'Or, which is awarded in recognition of notable bodies of work, with past recipients including Harrison Ford, Jane Fonda and Clint Eastwood.

There are two honorary winners this year: George Lucas of 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones' fame, and Japanese animation legend Studio Ghibli, the first group to receive the prize.

George and Mellody have been married since 2013 and share a daughter, 10. George was previously married to Marcia Lucas, 78, and American film editor, with whom he adopted another daughter, Amanda Lucas.

After Marcia, and before Mellody, George adopted two children as a solo parent: Katie and Jett.

The last film George was involved in was Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny, starring fellow octogenarian Harrison Ford.

Harrison, who has also won an Honorary Palme d'Or, again reprised his role as Indiana for the series' fifth and final film.

For the first time in the franchise, which began in 1981, George did not write the film, but he still executively produced it.
Under-fire Giovanni Pernice's big sister Angela appeared to come to his defence and imply his accusers are just jealous of him with a cryptic post shared to social media on Friday.

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni, 33, has been accused of mistreating his past celebrity partners.

The BBC are currently believed to be scouring through nine years of Strictly footage to confirm or deny three celebrities' claims.

Amanda Abbington, and two more yet to be named, have all accused Giovanni of misconduct, leading to him being unfollowed by numerous colleagues.

Taking to Instagram on Friday, Angela, 38, wrote in Italian: 'The problem is having something that others don't have.

Under-fire Giovanni Pernice's, 33, big sister Angela, 38, appeared to come to his defence and imply his accusers are just jealous of him with a cryptic post shared to social media on Friday

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni has been accused of mistreating his past celebrity partners

'And you can't see it with your eyes but everyone can perceive it  their hurt  it gives rise to anger.'

Mother-of-one Angela runs a dance school in her and Giovanni's home town of Palermo, Sicily.

She married her long time love and father of her son, two, in June 2023, and Giovanni was in attendance.

Her post comes after once popular Giovanni has been left reeling following claims from Amanda, whom he partnered with on Strictly in 2023, that she had to quit because of his controlling behaviour.

Although he continues to strenuously deny any wrongdoing, BBC bosses have launched an investigation.

Speaking from Palermo earlier this week, Angela told MailOnline: 'Giovanni will always have our support, he is family and there's nothing else to say.

'The whole family is behind him, mum, dad, me and everyone else, whatever he says is the truth and we support him with all our strength.

She finished: 'We are 100 percent behind him and nothing will change that.'

Speaking from Palermo earlier this week, Angela told MailOnline: 'Giovanni will always have our support, he is family and there's nothing else to say'

She continued: 'The whole family is behind him, mum, dad, me (pictured) and everyone else, whatever he says is the truth and we support him with all our strength'

Former Strictly contestants Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh have all previously been critical in their review of Pernice's methods.

According to The Sun, several women who have danced with the Italian on Strictly are contemplating joining the three existing claimants in a Beeb investigation for 'serious workplace misconduct claims'.

A source disclosed that several former dance partners of Giovanni's have been communicating privately and suggested that even more names could come forward.

The source went on to say that the future is unclear for the professional dancer, who vehemently denies any claims of threatening or abusive behaviour and has vowed to 'clear his name.'

They revealed: 'Numerous celebrities, all former partners of Gio's, have been in contact with one another behind the scenes.

'Three women that we know of have come forward, and taken things a step further with legal action.

'But Carter Ruck, the prestigious firm acting on behalf of these stars, have quietly been speaking to one or two other potential claimants. In other words, more names could come out of the woodwork.'

The fresh claims come after he reportedly quit Strictly after the scrutiny became 'too much'.

Off the back of his departure, friends close to Amanda, 52, spoke about how she found the pro dancer 'abrasive' and would have to have 'crisis talks' with show bosses every week after being left in floods of tears at his 'tough' training method with claims it left her 'bruised '.

Amanda, who dramatically withdrew from last year's competition and was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after the show, is said to have met with Laura and Ranvir, 46, earlier this year for an 'emotional summit' to 'compare notes' about their time working with him.

Giovanni shared a post to Instagram detailing that he was 'totally surprised' by the allegations, which he denies.

When the allegations came to light, Giovanni said: 'I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name' (pictured with Amanda)

He said in a statement: 'You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.

'Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.

'Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.

'I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!'
Cracker Barrel has shut four stores so far this year - as the beloved family chain battles for survival.

Stock for the Southern country-themed chain has plummeted in the past week after the company's CEO said the restaurant is no longer 'relevant'.

Julie Masino was talking to investors as she outlined plans to turn things around at the chain, which until the closures had 662 outlets across 45 states.

Popularity has waned over the past decade - with its loyal clientele of elderly people failing to return after the pandemic.

To cut costs, it has already shuttered four stores this year: two in California, one in Oregon and anther in Colombia, South Carolina. See below for full details.

Cracker Barrel has lost a significant 16 percent of diners over the past four years - and the trend is ongoing

Cracker Barrel says it will open two more lcoations this year. It is not clear if it will shut any more.

Last year it shut three other stores in Oregon.

The fall in cutomers has hit the share price in recent years.

But the price tanked even more after its chief executive Julie Felss Masino told investors: 'We're just not as relevant as we once were.'

She was speaking on an investor call.

Masino, who took over the CEO position nine months ago, admitted: 'Some of our recipes and processes haven't evolved in decades.'

On Thursday May 24, Cracker Barrel traded as low as $45.35 - its lowest level in over a decade.

The restaurant rose to prominence after it was founded in 1969 as patrons flocked to its all-American dishes, like biscuits and gravy and fried chicken.

On the closures, Cracker Barrel said in a statement: 'The decision to close a store is never one we take lightly, and our focus right now is on assisting our impacted employees during this transition.'
How much longer will the military transition led by Captain Ibrahim Traore last in Burkina Faso? In Ouagadougou, the question should be decided by the national meetings, organized on Saturday May 25 and Sunday May 26, to determine the duration during which the head of the junta will remain in power.

Prepared in total opacity, the consultation is supposed to bring together the living forces of the nation, according to the military regime which has held the country since the putsch of September 2022. But civil society organizations deemed too anti-establishment were not invited. As for the political parties, they only had a few hours to nominate their representatives  ten for the former majority, ten for the former opposition.

Captain Traore is following the method launched by his Malian neighbor, Colonel Assimi Goita, who has been in power for almost four years. Closed on May 13 in Bamako, the inter-Malian dialogue, boycotted by political parties and a large section of civil society, recommended an extension of the transition ranging from two to five years. The tactic aimed at putting, by organizing these so-called popular consultations, a democratic veneer on the political ambitions of the military regimes in place, has since been copied by all the putschists installed in power in West Africa, both in Guinea and in Niger and as far as Gabon.

In Ouagadougou, supporters of the junta are hammering in the streets and social networks that the captain must remain in power for at least five to ten years, while his regime is accused of trampling on fundamental freedoms. Serious death threats are made on social networks all day long against delegates of political parties for their presumed opinions, protested the Alliance of Political Parties and Formations of the Former Presidential Majority (APMP) in a letter sent to the authorities on Wednesday. In this unanswered missive, the coalition calls for the lifting of the suspension of the activities of political parties, banned since the putsch, the postponement of the date of the meetings and security guarantees for its participants.

Conclusions known in advance

Like the APMP, several civil society organizations have called for a boycott of these meetings. In a press release published on May 21, the Serve and Not Serve (SENS) movement denounced the betrayal that is being prepared and which has no other aim than to give an illegitimate blank check to authorities who do not have only the merit of arbitrary force. The conclusions are known in advance. No credible actor should be complicit in this, continues the association, before demanding as a prerequisite for holding these meetings the cessation of threats and intimidation of voices considered critical and the immediate and unconditional release of all those kidnapped by the junta.

Among them, the national coordinator of SENS, Me Guy Herve Kam, detained by state security since his kidnapping by men in civilian clothes at the end of January, despite the court decision ordering his immediate release at the beginning of March. Or the influential Sansan businessman Anselme Kambou, who remains missing since his kidnapping in mid-September by Burkinabe intelligence agents, just like Lieutenant-Colonel Evrard Somda. The former chief of staff of the gendarmerie was kidnapped from his home in mid-January by armed individuals.

Kidnappings by the secret services, forced recruitment alongside the army to fight against jihadist groups who have continued, since 2015, to utter death threats on social networks Since coming to power, the Burkinabe military silenced protest voices. Only supporters are allowed to demonstrate. On May 11, a few thousand of them gathered in a stadium in the capital to demand an extension of the transition ranging from five to ten years, or even lifelong power for the young 36-year-old captain.

Since the beginning of May, posters calling on Burkinabes to gather on May 25 and 26 in front of the Ouaga 2000 conference room where the meetings are being organized to say yes to the extension of the transition have been distributed online. The Front for the Defense of the Republic (FDR), a civil society organization created in April 2024 to oppose the power of Ibrahim Traore, also called on its supporters to invest the surroundings of the room, in order to  say no to the power for life of the junta, claim democratic and popular foundations and say [ones] rejection of the dictatorship.

Russians in fatigues in Ouagadougou

The fear of clashes looms. Since Wednesday [May 22], supporters of the regime have stormed the area around the conference room. They camp there day and night and make videos in which they openly threaten anyone who wants to go to the conference and who has ideas contrary to those of keeping Ibrahim Traore in power, relates an executive from Balai Citoyen, the association which was the spearhead of the popular uprising that led to the fall of President Blaise Compaore ten years ago.

In an internal message distributed on Tuesday and consulted by Le Monde, the general staff raised the alert level throughout the territory as part of the holding of the meetings. In Ouagadougou, the security context has been particularly tense since shots were fired near the presidency, in the city center, on May 17. According to the official version, given by the Burkina Faso information agency (AIB), an individual with indelicate behavior tried to attack the sentry stationed at the presidential palace, but the incident was very quickly brought under control and no damage was reported. A version called into doubt by several security sources, who for their part evoke the thesis of an internal settling of scores between soldiers, against a backdrop of tensions within the army.

But the head of the junta knows how to protect his back. On May 18, more than a hundred Russians in fatigues, members of the Africa Corps  the new label of the Russian paramilitary presence since the death in July 2023 of Yevgueni Prigojine, Wagners boss,  landed in Ouagadougou , according to an eyewitness and several security and humanitarian sources. A contingent which comes to reinforce the first of around a hundred men, who arrived in the capital at the end of January. When contacted, the Burkinabe authorities did not respond to requests from Le Monde.
Xizang reaches trade milestone, showcasing progress in high-level opening up

Global Times) 10:06, May 24, 2024

Tourists enjoy the scenery by the Lake Namtso in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 19, 2024. As temperature rises and ice melts, Lake Namtso will enter its tourism season. Photo: Xinhua

A local official in Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region said on Thursday that the total foreign trade volume of the region reached 10 billion yuan ($138.08 million) in 2023, marking a historic breakthrough.

This milestone highlights the significant strides the region has made in advancing high-level opening up and high-quality development in recent years, observers said.

As a key node in the China-proposed Belt and Road initiative, Xizang has achieved greater connectivity with its neighboring countries and regions in various sectors, welcoming a broader market through high-level opening up, analysts said, noting that its latest economic achievements will bring more opportunities and support for the development of Chinas vast western regions.

Opening up is the only path for the regions high-quality development, Yan Jinhai, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China Xizang Autonomous Regional Committee and chairman of the People's Government of Xizang Autonomous Region, said during a press conference.

In 2023, Xizang engaged in import and export trade with 175 countries and regions, witnessing a 138.3 percent surge in the total volume of goods traded. From January to April this year, the total foreign trade volume in the region reached 2.8 billion yuan, a remarkable increase of 201.7 percent year-on-year, according to official data Yan cited.

Yan said the regions strides are a result of its firm commitment to revitalizing border areas, boosting public services and infrastructure, and exploring high-quality development through continuous opening up. Vigorous efforts have included enabling dual customs clearance for both passengers and goods at four national ports and restoring 15 traditional border trade points.

As a key driver of the regions prosperity, Xizangs tourism sector has also seen significant growth, welcoming 55.17 million visitors last year and generating record-high revenue of 65.1 billion yuan. This marked a notable 83.7 percent increase in tourist numbers from the previous year and a 60 percent increase in revenue. The official also expressed strong confidence in sustaining double-digit growth in the tourism sector for 2024.

Xizang boasts unique geographic and cultural features, as well as significant resources and demographic advantages. Coupled with the current policy support, the convergence of these strengths will unleash boundless impetus and potential for the regions development, analysts said.

Moreover, the region is also accelerating the cultivation of new quality productive forces driven by high-tech innovation. Its unique climate characteristics and low-cost clean energy provide unparalleled advantages for the development of high-tech digital industries.

Xizang is building the worlds highest-altitude green data center to spur innovation through computational power, with a planned investment of 11.8 billion yuan, Yan said, noting the region's digital economy exceeded 25 billion yuan last year.

Last year, the regions GDP reached nearly 240 billion yuan, growing by 9.5 percent, and ranking first in China. The regions total financial resources amounted to 380 billion yuan, with per capita financial resources also topping the national rankings, according to official data.

Looking ahead, local authorities have vowed to make all-out efforts to stabilize economic growth, expand consumption, and enhance development momentum. They aim to effectively propel the high-quality development of Xizangs economy to new heights by continuously fostering new growth points.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
His trip was hardly obvious given Tunisian diplomatic tradition: Kais Saied participated, on Wednesday May 22, in the funeral in Tehran of Iranian President Ebrahim Raissi, who died three days earlier in a helicopter crash. The Tunisian head of state was received on this occasion by the Supreme Guide of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the same one who congratulated him on his election in October 2019, calling him  virtuous academic personality.

The presence of Mr. Saied in Tehran, alongside two other heads of state (Tajikistan, Qatar), prime ministers (Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Iraq, Syria, Azerbaijan, Venezuela, Belarus, etc.), ministers of foreign affairs ( Oman, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia) and other lower-ranking envoys, marks a notable shift in Tunis diplomacy. The last visit of a Tunisian head of state to Iran dates back to 1965. Habib Bourguiba then met the Shah of Iran during an eight-week diplomatic tour of around ten countries.

At a time when Kais Saied maintains tense relations with the West and is sketching a discreet rapprochement with Russia, this visit to Tehran will not fail to fuel questions about the strategic positioning of Tunisia. A first personal contact with an Iranian leader was made at the beginning of March in Algiers during the summit of gas exporting countries. A sign that Algeria is very interested in the fate of Tunisia, its small eastern neighbor over which it exercises increasing supervision, Kais Saied was the guest of honor. The opportunity was thus offered to him to meet leaders of gas powers, in particular the Iranian president himself, Ebrahim Raissi, less than three months before his disappearance. In Algiers, Kais Saied praised the will of peoples freed from colonialism working to impose their total sovereignty over their natural resources.

Options are becoming scarce

Regular contemplator of foreign diktats (implied from the West), Kais Saied, trained in the school of Arab nationalism, pursues with the displacement of Tehran a diplomatic trajectory where the anti-imperialist ideology coexists with the pressing quest for financing essential to a Tunisian economy on the verge of bankruptcy. Mr. Saied continues to send the message to Europeans and Americans that Tunisia gives itself the right to forge or strengthen ties with other powers, including anti-Western ones, observes Hamza Meddeb, researcher at Carnegie Middle East Center.

Since refusing to sign an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on a loan of 1.9 billion dollars (1.8 billion euros), due to the conditionalities attached to it, the head of The Tunisian state sees its options becoming rarer. Saudi Arabia, requested for financial support, sets the prerequisite for the conclusion of the agreement with the IMF. Qatar demands a compromise with the party from the Islamist matrix Ennahda, of which Mr. Saied has imprisoned a number of leaders, including its historic leader, Rached Ghannouchi. As for aid from the United Arab Emirates, it would come up against opposition from Algeria. The proximity between Abu Dhabi and Morocco, against a backdrop of normalization of the two countries with Israel in 2020, has in fact triggered an open crisis between Algerians and Emiratis.

In this context, a rapprochement with Iran would take place all the more easily as certain circles surrounding Kais Saied have long-standing links with the Islamic Republic. The head of states own brother, Naoufel Saied, who serves as a behind-the-scenes advisor, historically comes from the so-called Islamic left current, a movement which was recognized at the end of the 1970s in the writings of Ali Shariati (1933-1977), considered one of the precursors of the Iranian revolution of 1979. Naoufel Saied is accustomed to pro-Tehran declarations. At the height of the war in Syria, he notably distinguished himself in a meeting by defending the idea that the terrorism of the rebellion was a plot by the United States and Saudi Arabia against Syria, the Russia and the Iranian Renaissance, recalls a direct witness to these exchanges. Also the Iranian tropism of Kais Saied, if it were to be confirmed, would not appear out of nowhere.
: VIT-AP University celebrated its 7th University Day with grandeur and enthusiasm. The event was graced by guests, including the Chief Guest, Justice CT Ravi Kumar, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, and the Guest of Honour Amit Chaudhry, Director of Data Platforms at Microsoft, Bangalore.
The current election cycle witnesses a proliferation of digital misinformation campaigns, presenting new challenges for the authorities and citizens alike

A prominent film programmer and writer David Schwartz has rightly quoted, Political commercials pretend to be like documentaries, but they use all the techniques of fiction filmmaking, including scripts, performances and music. This could be quite apt to ponder on the current general election and political communication in India. The use of technologies including deep fakes is attempting to make this election distinct from the 2019 general election.

Political communication is the production and influence of persuasive political messages, campaigns and advertisements, often involving the mass media. It is an interdisciplinary field that uses communication, journalism and political science. Political communication concerns ideas such as information flow, political influence, decision-making, news and impact on citizens. Since the advent of the World Wide Web, the amount of data to be analysed has increased and researchers are turning to computational methods to study the dynamics of political communication. This can be quite relevant in the light of Parliamentary elections, 2024 in India.

The parliamentary elections in India have started from 19 April and will continue up to 1 June in seven phases to elect all 543 members of the Lok Sabha. This is the longest election in history, surpassing the previous election of 44 days, second only to the Indian general election of 1951- 52. Approximately 970 million of the 1.4 billion people are eligible to vote, that is 70 per cent of the total population. In the States of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha and Sikkim, parliamentary elections will be held simultaneously with general elections and by-elections to 25 constituencies in 12 legislative assemblies. The votes will be counted and the results announced on June 4. Current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has completed his second term, is running for a third consecutive term.

Social media in the political domain

Social media has become an increasingly important tool for political communication. For certain demographics, it is one of the main platforms where people get their news and interact with it by commenting and sharing. Social media has dramatically changed the way modern political campaigns are run. As more and more digitally native citizens vote, social media has become an important tool for politicians to establish themselves and communicate with voters.

The experience of using social media depends largely on the user, as the platforms algorithms tailor the consumer experience to each user. This leads to each person seeing more like-minded people due to increased digital social behaviour. In addition, social media changed politics because it gave politicians a direct way to inform their constituents and people to speak directly to politicians. This unofficial nature can lead to misinformation because it is not subject to the same fact-checking processes as institutional journalism. Moreover, social media platforms serve as democratising agents, empowering individuals to participate in political conversations irrespective of geographical or socio-economic barriers. Citizens can voice their perspectives, amplify marginalised narratives and mobilise collective action, thereby enriching the democratic fabric of society. Concurrently, social medias interactive nature engenders heightened transparency and accountability within political institutions, as public scrutiny intensifies and feedback mechanisms proliferate.

AI Deepfakes: A new era

Technological implications are increasingly becoming imperative in the current election in India about political communication. This election season, misinformation has a new face. This time, India smiles, talks and woos the voters with a wisdom that is hard to start and harder to regulate.

The 2019 election was no stranger to hate and misinformation campaigns, but the technology that enables this ecosystem has changed the rate of misrepresentation. The fraud pulse has found a new, more enthusiastic channel in the last five years. Law enforcement agencies are warning louder than ever that the average Indian voter in 2024 is most at risk of being misinformed about the election. There are gaps in peoples ability to distinguish between real and artificial intelligence, leaving them vulnerable to fraud and unauthorised access. Social media companies struggle to curb fake news and propaganda; The Indian Government is updating existing legislation to better address the spread of online counterfeiting.

The 2019 election took place on social media. Researchers identified sophisticated campaigns that used WhatsApp messaging and massive deployment of IT bots to distribute cropped photos, post coordinated content and publish fake videos on Facebook during the 2024 general elections. The pressing question now is how digital platforms tag, identify and contextualise such media. Even in the era of generative AI, such enforcement measures were nascent or seasonal at best. Now, cheap or free tools allow even amateurs to create deep fakes without content filters to prevent fake or illegal content from spreading. This means that technology platforms have to act stronger against criminals and break the chain of disinformation faster than they do. One of the biggest changes in social media after the 2019 elections in India is the absence of Twitter (Now X), the platform used by Indias controlled politicians and Government agencies to broadcast official information to the countrys media.

A way forward

In todays world, understanding politics means delving into how political actors communicate and navigate various media channels. These channels not only reflect but also shape political messages and images. Just as political systems influence media through policies and decisions, media structures profoundly impact political communication processes.

Easy-to-make AI videos with near-perfect shadows and hand gestures can sometimes confuse even the digitally literate. But the risks are greater in a country where many of its 1.4 billion people are technologically challenged and where manipulated content can easily stoke sectarian tensions, especially during elections. The Election Commission of India recently warned political parties against using artificial intelligence to spread misinformation, issuing seven provisions of IT and other laws that carry up to three years in prison for offences including forgery, rumour and hostility.Looking forward to a free and fair election this time!

(The author is from Journalism and Mass Communication, Rama Devi Womens University, Bhubaneswar; views are personal)
With urban apathy continuing through the first five rounds of polling, the Election Commission (EC) on Friday reminded urban voters of their right and duty to vote, urging them to break this trend despite the extreme heatwave and high humidity.

Over 11.13 crore voters, including 5.29 crore women, will cast their votes for the 58 Parliamentary constituency seats in six States and Union Territories on Saturday.

The commission has called upon voters to turn out in large numbers at polling stations and to vote with responsibility and pride.

Voters of Parliamentary constituencies in urban centres like Delhi, Gurugram and Faridabad are specially reminded about their right and duty to vote and break the trend of urban apathy.

After the five rounds of voting on May 20, the EC lamented the lower voter turnout in urban cities such as Mumbai, Thane, Jaipur, Lucknow, Chennai, Jhansi, Thiruvananthapuram, Howrah, and Madurai compared to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, calling it urban apathy.

An analysis of turnout shows that of the 409 seats where data can be compared with 2019, nearly two-thirds, or 258, have witnessed a lower percentage turnout this year and 88 (more than one in five) have seen even the absolute number of votes drop from five years ago.

The EC had noted that in the past, these cities have suffered from urban apathy as far as voting is concerned. On May 3 too, while referring to voter turnout in phase two, the commission had said it was disappointed with the turnout level in some metropolitan cities.

Last month, the EC assembled many metro commissioners here to devise a strategy to combat voter apathy. Urban and youth apathy is described as a phenomenon when young voters and those living in metros fail to turn up at polling stations on the election day.

Besides urban apathy, heatwave in poll bound States and UTs are major concerns to the authorities to improve voter turnout. According to the weather department, the maximum temperature is expected to be around 44 to 45 degrees Celsius which is likely to give feelings of over 50-52 degrees Celsius.

In a statement issued on Friday, the poll panel said the India Meteorological Department has predicted no adverse impact of cyclone in poll-going constituencies. But it gave no details.

Polling for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat in Jammu and Kashmir will also be held on Saturday. The election there was postponed from phase three to six due to logistical issues owing to adverse weather conditions.

Among the key contestants are Dharmendra Pradhan (BJP) from Sambalpur (Odisha), Manoj Tiwari (BJP) and Kanhaiya Kumar (Congress) from North East Delhi, Bansuri Swaraj from New Delhi Maneka Gandhi (BJP) from Sultanpur (Uttar Pradesh), Mehbooba Mufti (PDP) from Anantnag-Rajouri (Jammu & Kashmir), Abhijit Gangopadhyay (BJP) from Tamluk (West Bengal), and BJPs Manohar Lal Khattar (Karnal, Haryana), Naveen Jindal (Kurukshetra) Raj Babbar ( Gurugram) Dinesh Lal Yadav alias Nirahua ( Azamgarh) and Rao Inderjit Singh (Gurgaon).

So far, polling has been completed in 428 constituencies across 25 States and Union Territories. Phase V witnessed a voter turnout of approximately 62.19 per cent. In the corresponding phase during the 2019 polls, a voter turnout of 64.16 per cent was recorded as 51 seats across seven States went to the polls.

The Congress did not win even one of these 58 seats in the 2019 elections. In contrast, the BJPs stakes are high as it had won 40, securing a vote share of more than 40 per cent on 47 seats in the last elections. This clearly shows Congress doesnt have any strongholds in this phase.

What makes this phase particularly interesting is that all seven seats in Delhi and all the 10 seats in Haryana will go to polls.

Of the 58 Parliamentary constituencies, the BJP has a stronghold in five, Biju Janata Dal on four, and Trinamool Congress on two. The BJP is a strong contender in 30 seats. This means the party won the seat at least twice in the last three elections.

There are six seats where the victory margin was more than 35 per cent in the 2019 election, and the BJP won all of them. The other four seats with less than one per cent victory margin in the last election are Shrawasti in UP, Rohtak in Haryana, Sambalpur in Odisha, and Jhargram in West Bengal.

In West Bengal, voting will be held in the tribal belt JangalMahal region, spanning five districts. A hotspot for identity politics, the region sends eight representatives to Lok Sabha from Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura, and Bishnupur seats. Out of the eight seats, the BJP won five and TMC bagged three in the 2019 polls.

The seats going to the polls in Uttar Pradesh are Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Phulpur, Allahabad, Ambedkar Nagar, Shrawasti, Domariyaganj, Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Lalganj, Azamgarh, Jaunpur, Machhlishahr and Bhadohi. From Sultanpur, BJP candidate Maneka Gandhi is seeking her ninth entry into the Lok Sabha.

The former Union Minister is up against the Samajwadi Partys Ram Bhual Nishad and the Bahujan Samaj Partys (BSP) Uday Raj Verma. In Azamgarh, incumbent MP Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua will be hoping to retain the seat for the BJP against the Samajwadi Partys Dharmendra Yadav.

Jaunpur will witness former Maharashtra Minister Kripashankar Singh of the BJP taking on Samajwadi Party candidate Babu Singh Khushwaha and the incumbent MP Shyam Singh Yadav of the BSP.
In a recent interaction with the media, Deputy Commissioner cum District Election Officer of Bokaro, Vijaya Jadhav, made a heartfelt appeal to all citizens to actively participate in the upcoming elections. Emphasizing the meticulous preparations completed in accordance with the Election Commission's guidelines, Jadhav reassured the public of a smooth and efficient election process.

The Deputy Commissioner highlighted that every aspect of the voting process has been carefully planned at a micro-level to ensure efficiency on election day. "Comprehensive training sessions for all election officials have been successfully conducted, incorporating all necessary checks to guarantee a seamless process," she stated.

When asked about potential areas for improvement, Jadhav confidently responded, "Improvement is a continuous process. Whether it is today or five years from now, there will always be room for improvement."

Superintendent of Police Pujya Prakash echoed this sentiment, expressing full confidence in the administration's ability to conduct free and fair elections. He assured the public that all necessary security measures have been implemented, encouraging everyone to vote freely and without fear.

The Deputy Development Commissioner Sandip Kumar of Bokaro also reiterated the administration's commitment to thorough preparations, expressing confidence in the seamless execution of the elections. The unified message from Bokaro's officials underscores their dedication to ensuring a transparent and secure voting process.

Throughout the press conference, the Bokaro district administration projected a strong sense of confidence in their ability to uphold the integrity of the elections, thus reinforcing the democratic foundations of the region.

The appeal to participate in the elections was particularly compelling, as it resonated with the notion of democracy as a festival that all citizens should engage in. With the secure environment established by the Bokaro district administration, voters are encouraged to come out in large numbers and exercise their democratic rights today.
As per the instructions of Jhalsa, Ranchi and the orders of Principal District and Sessions Judge cum Chairman, District Legal Services Authority Garhwa and Secretary Ravi Chaudhary, five to six child labourers who were taken out as hostages for child labour were sent back home.

On 16.05.2024, tribal children were being lured and taken to Chennai, Tamil Nadu by a contractor from different villages of Garhwa district for child labour and were being made to do child labour by keeping them hostage. When PLV Kalamuddin Ansari of District Legal Services Authority, Garhwa got information about this, he took immediate action and gave an application and informed to the District Legal Services Authority, Garhwa, Child Welfare Committee, Garhwa Bachpan Bachao Andolan and Police Station Incharge Meral about the matter.

When the police station in charge took action in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, all the children were rescued, out of which some children from other states including Bihar and Jharkhand were also found who were being made to do child labour there.

When the contractor of Garhwa district came to know about the action, he sent the three children to their home.

On Friday, all the three children were brought to the Child Welfare Committee, Garhwa where the children were questioned.

In today's program, Chairman of Child Welfare Committee Pranav Kumar and members Manoj Kumar Dubey, Rajiv Ranjan Tiwari, Mukesh Kumar Singh, Project Coordinator Rajiv Kumar Ravi, District Child Protection Officer Ashok Nayak, Child Protection Officer Institutional Supervision Sanjay Thakur, Police Sub Inspector Arvind Sao and office staff of District Legal Services Authority and PLV Kalamuddin Ansari, parents of child labourers were present.
The polling in all the 10 Lok Sabha Constituencies in Haryana and for the Karnal Assembly by-poll will be held on Saturday in which about 2 crore voters will decide the fate of 223 candidates, including big guns like former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, senior Congress leaders Kumari Selja, Deepender Hooda and Raj Babbar among others.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is contesting the Karnal by-election. The voting will be held from 7 am to 6 pm. According to State Election officials, a total of 2,00,76,786 registered voters of Haryana will exercise their vote at 20,031 polling stations in the State. A total of 223 candidates207 men and 16 womenare in the fray in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls in the State. In the last Lok Sabha Election, the BJP had won all 10 Lok Sabha seats in the State.



Haryana is witnessing a direct fight between the ruling BJP and Opposition Congress on almost all the Lok Sabha Seats. However, Lok Sabha Constituencies like Hisar and Kurukshetra are witnessing a multi-cornered contest.



Union Ministers Rao Inderjit Singh and Krishan Pal Gurjar, former Chief Minister Manohar Lal and Congress heavyweights Kumari Selja, Raj Babbar and Deepender Singh Hooda are contesting the Lok Sabha elections in the State. Khattar, the BJP candidate from Karnal, is facing Haryana Youth Congress president Divyanshu Budhiraja. From Hisar, Ranjit Singh Chautala, an Independent MLA who joined the BJP ahead of the polls, is pitted against two members of the Chautala clanJJPs Naina Chautala and INLDs Sunaina Chautala. Congress Jai Prakash is also in the fray.



The BJP has fielded industrialist and former Congress MP Naveen Jindal from Kurukshetra. He is facing AAPs state unit chief Sushil Gupta and INLDs Abhay Singh Chautala. Union Minister Inderjit Singh and Krishan Pal Gurjar are seeking re-election from Gurugram and Faridabad seats, respectively. The Congress has fielded its senior leaders Raj Babbar and Mahendra Pratap Singh from Gurugram and Faridabad respectively.



Congress Kumari Selja and BJPs Ashok Tanwar are contesting from Sirsa. In Rohtak, Deepender Singh Hooda is up against BJPs Arvind Sharma. In Ambala, Congress candidate Varun Chaudhry and BJPs Banto Katara are contesting. BJP has fielded sitting MLA Mohan Lal Badoli against Congress candidate Satpal Brahmachari in Sonepat Lok Sabha Constituency. BJPs Chaudhary Dharambir Singh, Congress sitting MLA Rao Dan Singh and JJPs Rao Bahadur Singh are contesting election from Bhiwani Mahendragarh.



Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), NCP (Sharad Pawar) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) have also fielded their candidates in the Lok Sabha polls. JJPs 10, BSPs nine and INLDs seven candidates and NCP (Sharad Pawar)s one are contesting the polls. Some sitting MLAs are also in the fray, including INLDs Kurukshetra candidate Abhay Singh Chautala. Congress sitting MLAs Varun Chaudhary and Rao Dan Singh are contesting from Ambala and Bhiwani-Mahendragarh seats, respectively. BJP MLA Mohan Lal Badoli is contesting from Sonipat and JJPs Naina Chautala from Hisar. Saini, who is also the state BJP chief and the sitting Kurukshetra MP, was sworn in as the chief minister on March 12, replacing Khattar. He is contesting the Karnal assembly bypoll. There are nine candidates in the fray for the bypoll which was necessitated by Khattars resignation as MLA.



Elaborate arrangements made for peaceful Lok Sabha Election: CEO



Haryana Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Agarwal said that the polling parties in the state departed for their respective polling stations on Friday. Elaborate arrangements have been made for smooth election in the State. All basic facilities and other necessary arrangements have also been made in view of the heat wave in all the polling stations. The returning officers, more than 96,000 officers and employees (except security forces) have been deployed on duty in the polling stations. Besides this, flying squads, observers along with micro observers will be present at different polling stations, he added. A total of 20,031 polling stations have been set up in the state. These include 19,812 permanent and 219 auxiliary polling stations. 5,470 polling stations have been set up in urban areas and 14,342 polling stations have been set up in rural areas. A total of 45,576 EVMs will be used in the state for the Lok Sabha elections and the assembly bypoll. Along with this, 24,039 control units and 26,040 VVPAT machines will be used, Agarwal said. The Chief Electoral Officer informed that 176 model polling stations have been established. There are 99 polling stations which will be operated entirely by women staff. Apart from this, 96 polling stations manned by youth employees, and 71 polling stations manned by Person with Disability (PwD) employees.



Agarwal said that on the day of voting, school children should also actively participate in this festival of democracy, for this a unique initiative has also been taken, in which school children will be rewarded with cash prizes. Under this initiative, children will be encouraged to motivate their parents to vote, and on voting day, they will be required to upload a selfie of their family members after the voting. At the district level, cash prizes of Rs 10,000, Rs 5,000, and Rs 2,500 will be awarded to the first, second, and third winners by conducting a draw of lots.



He said that under this initiative, the school having the maximum number of selfies uploaded by their students will also be awarded a special prize of Rs 25,000. A link has been developed on the https://www.ceoharyana.gov.in/ portal for uploading selfies, which will be available on the voting day, i.e., May 25. The link for uploading selfies will be open for school children along with voting from 7 AM, and selfies can be uploaded until 8 PM.



For Lok Sabha Election, State Police on high alert at inter-state and intra-state borders & district checkpoints: DGP



Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur on Friday said that the state police have been put on high alert for any anti-social elements spreading rumors on social media. Strict action will be taken against offenders, who will face severe legal consequences, he added. To maintain peace and law and order during the voting process, a foolproof sealing plan has been implemented at inter-state and intra-state borders and district checkpoints. More than 35,000 police personnel and 112 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed to ensure smooth conduct of elections. Additionally, more than 24,000 home guards have been strategically stationed throughout the region to maintain law and order. A total of 418 flying squads, 415 static surveillance teams, 34 quick response teams and 1,039 patrolling parties have also been deployed, he said. Additionally, the movement of liquor, weapons, cash, and other materials that could influence voting is prohibited in the state. The movement of history-sheeters, mischievous elements, and disruptive anti-social elements is being closely monitored. Efforts are being made to ensure a peaceful election process by coordinating with the administrations of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi. Police teams across the state are patrolling day and night, DGP added.



Kapur further said that during the voting process, all additional Directors General of Police, Inspectors General of Police, Police Commissioners, and Superintendents of Police will be in the field. They will patrol their respective areas from the start to the end of voting to ensure the process is not disrupted. Senior police officers have been instructed to keep the Director General of Police and the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) informed about the voting process and directives through phone, SMS, and WhatsApp messages.



During a meeting with the senior police officers, Kapur emphasized that disrupting law and order will not be tolerated. Kapur pointed out that mischievous elements sometimes make fake videos of polling stations viral on social media, causing disruptions. To counter this, Police teams will actively monitor social media at various levels and take strict action against those posting fake videos. Kapur appealed to the public not to share such videos on their social media accounts. He urged that if anyone sees such videos circulating, they should inform Haryana Police via helpline number 112 or the control room helpline number 0172-2570070.








Jharkhand State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited (JMF), Managing Director of Medha Dairy has also called for maximum voting through video message.



Medha Dairy has been playing a very active role in public welfare related schemes since its inception. In the same sequence, under the Chunao awareness campaign, Medha Dairy has sent a message to the people to vote in the great festival of this election through banners on all the milk booths of Medha, while the message of voting has also been printed on the packets of Medha's milk so that more and more consumers can vote. Have tried to reach.



As you know that there is voting in Ranchi on 25-May-2024. On this day, as part of an initiative by Medha Dairy to motivate voters to vote at selected polling stations, every voter who casts his vote and has Electoral ink marked on his finger will be marked in front of Medha's selected polling station. Arrangements have been made to give free Medha Lassi to every voter on showing at the kiosk/stall.





Jharkhand State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited (JMF), Medha Dairy is a Jharkhand Government undertaking and is the only milk producers' cooperative body affiliated to the state and is marketing its milk and milk products in all the cities and towns of the state. Medha Dairy acts as a link between the rural milk producers of Jharkhand state and the urban consumers, which provides a source of livelihood to these dairy farmers. Milk produced by about 50,000 marginal farmers is purchased daily in the morning and evening through milk collection centers set up in the villages. Today Medha Dairy is processing and marketing about 2.50 lakh liters of milk from 7 processing plants.
In a strategic move aimed at fostering a deeper connection with Punjabis and the Sikhs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday underscored the pivotal role of the Sikh community in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya while addressing a Lok Sabha election rally at Dinanagar in Gurdaspur. Modis discourse illuminated the rich historical contributions of Sikhs to the Ram Temple project, highlighting their indispensable role in this significant national endeavour. Concurrently, Modi continued his critique of the Congress party, lambasting its historical actions that have left indelible scars on the Sikh community and Punjab as a whole, including orchestrating the partition and perpetrating the anti-Sikh riots, among others.

Speaking to a sizable gathering, Modi said: The first person who initiated the fight for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was a Sikh from our country. A descendant of that individual recently participated in a Ram Temple-related function. This is a testament to the contributions of Sikhs to our nation.

Modi also took aim at the leaders of the pan-India opposition bloc  Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA)  for their dismissal of the sanctity of the Ram Temple, urging the assembled audience to vehemently oppose such viewpoints, particularly at the ballot box on election day.

In a pointed attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Modi said: Shehzadas master claims that the identity of India is threatened by the construction of the Ram Temple and the celebration of Ram Navami. The Congress party boycotted the celebration of the Ram Temple.

The Prime Minister also paid homage to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, recalling his significant contribution to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. As a Member of Parliament representing Kashi, I always bow my head to Maharaja Ranjit Singh for the gold plating he offered for the dome of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, he said.

Continuing his offensive against Congress, Modi accused the party of historic injustices against the Sikhs. He recounted the genocide of Sikhs in Delhi and accused Congress of shielding the perpetrators. The INDI alliance has inflicted deep wounds on Punjab. From the trauma of Partition and the genocide of Sikhs in Delhi, Congress has been responsible. It even protected the culprits of the Sikh genocide. However, under my administration, the files of these culprits were opened, and justice was served, he said.

Modi also criticized Congresss stance on Kashmir, accusing the party of promoting separatism. The INDI alliance poses a significant threat to the nation. Congress speaks of reinstating Article 370 in Kashmir, advocating for separatism and peace talks with Pakistan. They would rather offer flowers to Pakistan while it continues to bomb us. They argue that Pakistan has an atom bomb and that we should fear it. This is laughable. They forget that this is a new India, which does not hesitate to confront its enemies.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is contesting the Lok Sabha election independently for the first time since 1966, has fielded former MLA Dinesh Singh Babbu from Gurdaspur, replacing the sitting MP Sunny Deol, with elections scheduled in the state's 13 constituencies on June 1. Making no mention of the sitting MP Sunny Deol, Modi, in a nostalgic nod, remembered Bollywood star Vinod Khanna, emphasizing his deep connection with Gurdaspur. The relationship between Gurdaspur and the BJP is special. Vinod Khanna was my good friend, and we worked together closely. His contributions are still fondly remembered, he reminisced.

Modi, who did not make any mention of the former Chief Minister and Patiala royal capt Amarinder Singh in his Patiala rally a day before, on Friday accused the congress party of insulting him for not bowing to Congress royal partys diktats.

Taking on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for its remote control governance from Delhi, Modi also targeted the Congress of disrespecting the national security. When Congress was in power in Punjab, they attempted to govern via remote control. Capt Amarinder refused to comply, prioritizing the national security, leading to his removal from office. This is an unforgettable insult, he said.

Modi also lashed out at AAP for mismanaging Punjab. Delhi Darbaris are once again trying to run Punjab with a remote control. The Punjab Chief Minister cannot make a single decision independently. His superior was in jail, causing a halt in Punjabs governance. The Punjab CM had to visit jail to receive instructions. Do you want Punjab to be governed from jail? Isnt this an insult to Punjab? he questioned.

Urging the people of Punjab to vote for the BJP, Modi concluded, To elevate Punjab from its current situation, elect more BJP MPs. Your dreams will be my objectives, and I will dedicate every second to realizing them. Lets not waste our votes; let's ensure a BJP victory.

Cong, INDIAs balloon has burst: Modi in Jalandhar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's electoral blitz in Punjab took a fiery turn on Friday evening as he unleashed scathing criticism against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in particular and INDI alliance in general during a rally in Jalandhar. Mincing no words, Modi accused the AAP of being deeply entrenched in a massive liquor scam, raising serious doubts about their commitment to combating the rampant drug crisis gripping Punjab.

Modi, in his address, didn't hold back, questioning how a party embroiled in such corruption scandals could ever be trusted to lead the charge against Punjab's drug epidemic. He underscored the helplessness of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who seemed incapable of making independent decisions in the absence of his incarcerated owners, effectively paralyzing the state's governance.

But Modi's critique wasn't reserved solely for the AAP. He took aim at the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) as well, lambasting its leaders for echoing rhetoric akin to Pakistan's, a thinly veiled insinuation against their loyalty to Punjab's interests.

Their balloon has burst, said Modi boldly, referring to the Congress and the INDI alliance. It was a stark assertion of the dwindling prospects of these opposition factions in the face of his resurgent popularity. The Prime Minister didn't miss the opportunity to highlight the prevailing sentiment among the masses, confidently asserting that the overwhelming majority favoured the return of his government.

In his relentless pursuit to secure Punjabs future, Modi laid bare the failures and follies of his political adversaries, presenting the BJP as the sole beacon of hope for the state's prosperity. With each passing moment, his conviction and determination seemed to resonate louder, rallying the masses behind his vision for a vibrant and prosperous Punjab.

The ones embroiled in a massive liquor scam, how can they not be knee-deep in the illicit drug trade in Punjab? This is their reality," Modi declared, casting doubt on the AAP's integrity and commitment to combating Punjab's drug crisis. He lauded the state BJP president, commending his steadfastness in opposing the dishonest practices of the AAP.

Modi further lambasted the Congress, accusing the party of perpetuating a culture of corruption and deception. He alleged that the Congress concealed its misdeeds to protect its voter base, disregarding the interests of the people. The Prime Minister highlighted the BJP's unwavering dedication to transparency and accountability, contrasting it with the Congress's legacy of nepotism and malfeasance.

Where there is Congress, there are problems. Where there is BJP, there are solutions. This is why the entire country is saying that on June 4, we will cross the 400 mark, said Modi confidently, underscoring the widespread support for the BJP's governance.

Referring to Punjab as the cradle of Indian heritage and spirituality, Modi criticized the Congress for its neglect of the states cultural and historical significance. He accused the Congress of partitioning Punjab in pursuit of political gains, betraying the legacy of the states illustrious gurus.

Modis Guarantees to Jalandharites

Unveiling Modi Ki Guarantee, Modi made five significant promises to the people of Jalandhar. Firstly, he pledged to rejuvenate Jalandhar as a hub of sports and combat issues like drug trafficking. Secondly, he vowed to create employment opportunities for local youths, ensuring they can work close to home and dont go abroad. Thirdly, Modi assured an expansion of flight services from the newly -inaugurated Adampur Airport. Fourthly, he committed to extending the reach of the Vande Bharat Express to more cities in Punjab. Lastly, he also guaranteed free medical checkups and other expenses for senior citizens above 70 if the BJP government secures victory.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has admitted that the alleged excise policy linked money laundering scam is completely fake while the ED and CBI have no evidence of the scam.

The AAP chief made this disclosure citing the statement given by the Prime Minister in an interview on Thursday where he called him an experienced thief. He said, In the interview, Prime Minister Modi admitted in front of the whole country that the liquor scam is fake, and no evidence has been found in it. He has said that no evidence was found because Kejriwal is an experienced thief.

He asked whether ED and CBI officers are useless. The truth is that Modi is making this an excuse that Kejriwal is an experienced thief to justify my wrong arrest. I appeal to the Prime Minister that when you have already admitted that the liquor scam is fake and there is no recovery, then release all the people arrested in this case, he stated.

AAP Convenor said, For the last two years, they have been making noise that there is a liquor scam in Delhi. They arrested me, Sanjay Singh, Manish Sisodia, and conducted more than 500 raids all over the country. Don't know how many more people they arrested. They say that we took a bribe of Rs 100 crores, and just a few days ago, they said that there is a scam of Rs 1100 crores. A big question arises that if there is a scam of Rs 100 crores or Rs 1100 crores, then the money must be kept somewhere. They conducted more than 500 raids; they did not find a single penny anywhere. We must have spent (that money) somewhere, adding that they conducted so many raids but did not find any account of the expenditure.

Claiming that the PM Modi accepted that they have no evidence against him, Kejriwal said, The Prime Minister said that the reason why no evidence was found, no recovery was made, no money was recovered is because Kejriwal is an experienced thief. So yesterday, the Prime Minister admitted in front of the whole country that he has no evidence in the liquor scam, he has no recovery in the liquor scam, not even a penny was recovered.

So, your entire CBI is useless, all your CBI officers are useless, all your ED officers are useless. That is just an excuse to justify his wrongful arrest that Kejriwal is an experienced thief. But yesterday the Prime Minister himself admitted in front of the whole country that he has no evidence, there is no recovery. Prime Minister, when you have already admitted that the entire liquor scam is fake, you have no evidence, there is no recovery, then release everyone, reasoned Kejriwal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed public meetings in Shimla and Mandi in the hill state and slammed Congress for corruption, misgovernance, and anti-women policies while highlighting the welfare and developmental initiatives undertaken by the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre.

He called the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh a ''talabaaz sarkar'' for shutting down the staff selection commission and said the party also intends to put a ''tala'', or lock, on Ayodhya's Ram temple.



Addressing an election programme in Nahan in Sirmaur district, he claimed a conspiracy is being hatched to snatch the reservation from the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and give it to Muslims.



As Modi took to the stage, he chanted 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' and evoked local deities. Coming to Sirmaur felt like a homecoming, he said. ''Neither Nahan nor Sirmaur is new for me but I have to say that today's atmosphere is new as I have never witnessed such a historic rally in Nahan,'' he told the crowd at the BJP's 'Vijay Sankalp' rally.



''I have come here to seek your blessings for a third term for the BJP, not for myself or my family but for a developed nation and developed Himachal.'' The prime minister said the people of Himachal Pradesh live along the border and know the value of a strong nation. ''I assure you that I won't let any harm come to you,'' he said. ''Main jaan ki baji laga dunga per Himachal per sankat nahin aane dunga.'' Modi said he has visited every nook and corner of Himachal Pradesh during his days in the party organisation and he considers the state his second home.



Hitting out at the Congress over the dissolution of the Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPSSC), Modi said let alone giving one lakh jobs to the youth, the ''talabaaz sarkar'' of the Congress put a lock on the recruitment commission. In February last year, the Sukhu government disbanded the HPSSC whose functioning was suspended after a paper leak was detected in December 2022. In October last year, the state government notified the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog (HPRCA) to replace the Hamirpur-based HPSSC.



Modi further said, ''The Congress opposed the Ram temple and mocked us with slogans like 'mandir wahin banayenge, tareekh nahin btayenge' (Will build the temple there only, but won't tell the date).'' ''We not only declared the date but also performed the Pran Pratishtha (of the Ram temple) and the Congress boycotted it to appease its vote bank.'' The prime minister claimed that an aide of a top Congress leader has said that a conspiracy is being hatched to put a lock on the Ram temple in Ayodhya and shift Ram Lalla to a tent again if the party wins the Lok Sabha polls.



Modi also alleged that a conspiracy is being hatched to snatch the reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs and give it to Muslims.



The Congress has already done it in Karnataka, he said. The Calcutta High Court has quashed OBC certificates conferred on 77 classes of Muslims to please the Muslim vote bank but West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not honouring the court order, he said.



The HC on Wednesday struck down as illegal the OBC status of several classes in West Bengal granted since 2010, observing that the inclusion of 77 classes of Muslims in the list of backward categories was to ''treat them as vote bank''.



There are poor people in upper castes as well, Modi said, adding his government has provided a 10 per cent quota for the upper caste poor without snatching it from any other caste.



Modi also targeted the Congress for not accepting the demand for 'one rank one pension (OROP)' and said his government not only implemented the promise made to ex-servicemen but has so far disbursed Rs 1.25 lakh crore for it.



He said the Congress did not accept the demand for OROP for 40 years but after he declared at a rally of ex-servicemen in Jhajjar, Haryana in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls that the BJP would do it, the Congress ''insulted'' the veterans by earmarking just Rs 500 crore for the scheme.



Earlier, Pakistan used to commit excesses (''sar pe naachta tha'') and the ''weak'' Congress government looked at other countries for help. ''But, today we fight our own battle and kill the enemy by in their own territory.'' Appealing to the 2.50 lakh people of Hatti community of the Trans Giri area of Sirmaur district, the PM said the Centre has given them tribal status but the Congress-led state government has failed to extend them the benefits.



''When the people of Himachal Pradesh know the Congress is not going to form a government in Delhi, why should anybody vote for them? The people of Himachal Pradesh are very intelligent and they will not waste their votes,'' he said.
In a last-minute push to bolster its campaign in Punjab ahead of the seventh and final phase of voting on June 1, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to address a major rally in Amritsar on Saturday. The rally is part of the Congress partys intensified efforts to connect with voters and solidify support across the State.

Following Rahul Gandhi's rally, Priyanka Gandhi will take the stage on Sunday, addressing gatherings in Jalandhar and Fatehgarh Sahib. Her presence is expected to energize the partys base and attract undecided voters. Meanwhile, the party is finalizing the schedule for Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also expected to visit the State to lend his support.

The Congress partys intensified efforts come on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vigorous campaign in Punjab, where he has already addressed three consecutive rallies in the past two days  on Thursday and Friday  to galvanize support for BJP candidates.

Congress senior leader and star campaigner Rahul Gandhis Amritsar visit on Saturday will mark his inaugural visit to Punjab for the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign. Following this, he will return on May 29 to campaign in Ludhiana and Patiala, rallying support for the state Congress president and party candidate in Ludhiana Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and former MP and party candidate in Patiala Dr Dharamvira Gandhi.

RaGas rally has been organized at Meera Kot on airport road in Amritsar. Preparations, including setting up the tent and security arrangements, have already begun. On Friday afternoon, senior Congress leader Harish Chaudhary, along with sitting MP and party candidate from Amritsar Gurjit Singh Aujla, visited Meera Kot to oversee the rally preparations. Due to the VVIP movement, additional security measures are being implemented.

Over 1,000 security personnel from the Punjab Police will be on duty, supplemented by Rahul Gandhi's personal security detail. The increased VVIP movements in Punjab indicate a ramp-up in election activities. Recently, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, visited Amritsar. Additionally, senior Congress leader and former Minister Sachin Pilot toured Amritsar to support Aujla.

With the election date rapidly approaching, the Congress party is pulling out all the stops to ensure a strong finish to its campaign. The party's high command has been meticulously planning these events, ensuring a comprehensive approach to reaching voters in the final days before the polls while heating up the election atmosphere in Punjab with Rahul and Priyanka Gandhis rallies.

Meanwhile, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge's visit to the state is yet to be finalized. Sachin Pilot and other star campaigners are already active, with Pilot, on Friday, addressing rallies in Balachaur and Ropar in support of Vijay Inder Singla.

To ensure the success of these rallies, the Congress high command is meticulously planning and preparing. Congress national general secretary KC Venugopal had visited Punjab on May 18, meeting with candidates from various constituencies to gather feedback and strategize. Senior leader Harish Chaudhary visited Patiala on May 23 to finalize plans. Concurrently, AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is also expected to intensify his activities in Punjab after May 25  the polling date in Delhi.

The Congress party's strategy in Punjab revolves around leveraging the popularity of its star campaigners to galvanize support. Rahul Gandhi's visit is seen as a significant move to boost the morale of party workers and strengthen the party's grassroots presence. The selection of Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Patiala for the initial rallies underscored the party's focus on key constituencies with substantial voter bases.

As the political temperature rises, Punjab is set to witness a flurry of high-profile visits and rallies, with major leaders from both Congress and other parties actively campaigning to garner support.
Santosh Choubey, who has been active in the fields of literature, art, culture, education, technology and skill development for five decades, will be decorated with the prestigious international 'Bharat Gaurav Samman  2024'.

This honor will be given to Santosh Chaubey on June 5, 2024 in a grand felicitation ceremony organized at Luxembourg Palace, France Senate, Paris. Santosh Choubey, selected for Indian Engineering Service and Indian Administrative Service, is currently studying at Rabindranath Tagore University and Dr. C.V. Raman is the Chancellor of the University and the Chairman of ISECT Network, State Resource Centre, Vanamali Srijan Peeth and Tagore International Literature and Art Centre.It is noteworthy that Santosh Choubey is continuously active in promoting Hindi literature and language at national and international level through various literary and cultural activities along with writing.

Along with this, you are also continuously making important contribution in the field of science, technology and skill development. In the last forty years, he has established a network of more than forty thousand training and service centers across India, which, apart from providing employment to thousands of people, is participating in important schemes like Digital India, Skill India, Startup India.

Along with technology, he is also a poet, storyteller, novelist, editor and translator who has global recognition for his innovative creative projects and innovations. His six story collections - 'Light colored shirt', 'Restaurant Mein Dochhar', 'Nine Bindu Ka Khel', 'Beech Prem Mein Gandhi', 'But remembering Shakespeare' and 'Representative Stories', four novels - 'Raag Kedar', 'Kya Pata Comrade Mohan', 'Jaltarang', and 'Black Hole in the World of Dreams', four poetry collections - 'Where else will dreams come true', 'Kona Dharti Ka', 'In this non-poet time' And 'Ghar-Bahar' has been published and discussed. Terry Eagleton, Frederic Jameson, Walter Benjamin, Odysseus Ielitis and EF.

His translations of Schumacher, published under the titles 'Author and Commitment', 'Moscow Diary' and 'A Book for the Confused Man', have been widely read and appreciated. He has also edited 'Vanmali Samagra' in two volumes focusing on story writer Vanmali ji and three books of ideological prose focusing on stories and novels - 'Internal crisis of narrative', 'New tradition of novel' and 'Kahani: Swapn aur Yatharth'.

Along with this, his critical books 'Kala Ki Sangat' and 'Apne Time Mein' have also been published. Recently the book of essays 'Tradition and Modernity' has come out and has been highly appreciated.Presently he is the editor-in-chief of 'Rang Samvad', the award-winning and prestigious interdisciplinary magazine of drama and arts. The story dictionary 'Katha Madhya Pradesh' edited by him, centered on more than two hundred storytellers of Madhya Pradesh, has gained nationwide fame.
Madhya Pradesh High Court has granted two months' bail to a college student accused of molesting a minor girl, with the bail conditions including community service at a hospital.

The court noted that the BBA student belongs to a "good family" and, as a "chance to improve his conduct," ordered him to do community service at the Bhopal District Hospital every weekend for the next two months.

The High Court directed that the accused must help the patients coming to the government hospital, assist in maintaining the cleanliness of the hospital, and aid in the patients' registration work.

According to the court, this instruction was given keeping in mind the age and future of the accused so that he can get an opportunity to come into the mainstream of society.

An FIR was registered against the BBA student in Bhopal on charges of wrongful confinement (<section 345 of the IPC) and under the POCSO Act for allegedly molesting a minor girl. During the hearing, the court said, after reading the entire case diary and the information filed by the defendants/state, it appears that the allegations are very bad and cannot be expected from a BBA student who wants to make a future in the managerial cadre.
All arrangements are in place to conduct free and fair elections in 14 Lok Sabha constituencies going to polls on Saturday in the sixth phase in Uttar Pradesh. Elaborate security is in place with around two lakh security personnel, including over 230 companies of Central forces, deployed on election duty for this phase.

The Elections Commission of India will hold the by-election to Gansadi assembly constituency in Balrampur district along with the polls in 14 Lok Sabha constituencies.

The 14 constituencies going to polls on Saturday in the sixth phase include Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Phulpur, Allahabad, Ambedkar Nagar, Shravasti, Domariyaganj, Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Lalganj, Azamgarh, Jaunpur, Machhlishahr and Bhadohi.

Uttar Pradeshs Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa said here on Friday that elaborate arrangements were in place to conduct free and fair polls. He said polling parties had already started reaching their polling booths.

He said over 2.70 crore voters  over 1.43 crore male and 1.27 crore female voters and 1,256 third gender voters  were expected to exercise their franchise in the sixth phase of polling. Sant Kabir Nagar has the highest number of voters and Allahabad the lowest.

To keep vigil on the voting, the ECI has deployed three special observers, 14 general observers, eight police observers and 18 expenditure observers. Besides, 2,192 sector magistrates, 282 zonal magistrates, 24 static magistrates and 2,833 micro observers have also been deployed.

Live webcasting has been arranged at more than 50 per cent of polling places (14,480 polling places) and it will be supervised at three levels  district election officer, chief electoral officer, and the Election Commission of India. Apart from the above, arrangements for videography have also been made at 5,057 polling places.

There are 162 candidates in the fray  146 male and 16 female candidates in the sixth phase elections.

In the sixth phase election, maximum 26 candidates are contesting from Pratapgarh Lok Sabha constituency and lowest six candidates in Domariyaganj. For the sixth phase polling, 17,113 polling stations have been set up. The number of polling booths is 28,171 of which 3,978 booths have been identified as critical.

In Sultanpur, the electoral contest features Maneka Gandhi from the Bharatiya Janata Party, Bhim Nishad representing the Samajwadi Party and Udiraj Verma. Pratapgarh witnesses a contest between Sangam Lal Gupta of the BJP and SP Singh Patel from the SP.

Allahabad showcases a battle between Neeraj Tripathi of the BJP and Ujjwal Reoti Raman Singh of the Congress. Ambedkar Nagar presents a contest between Ritesh Pandey of the BJP and sitting SP MLA Lalji Verma. Domariyaganj sees a contest between Jagdambika Pal representing the BJP and Khwaja Shamsuddin from the Bahujan Samaj Party.

In the Basti Lok Sabha constituency, Harish Dwivedi (BJP) is locked in a direct contest with Ram Prasad Chaudhary of the SP. In Lalganj, Neelam Sonkar from the BJP and Daroga Saroj representing the SP are the main contenders.

Azamgarh sets the stage for a fierce contest between Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua of the BJP and Dharmendra Yadav from the SP. In Jaunpur, Kripashankar Singh of the BJP is locked in a triangular contest with Babu Singh Kushwaha of the SP and Shyam Singh Yadav of BSP. In Bhadohi, Vinod Kumar Bind from the BJP is facing Lalitesh Pati Tripathi of the Mamta Banarjee-led Trinamool Congress.

These electoral matchups showcase the diverse political landscape and the fervour of democracy in Uttar Pradesh.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, welcomed the decision of Calcutta High Court regarding OBC-Muslim reservation, saying that the Constitution of India never allows reservation on the basis of religion.

Speaking to the media at his official residence here, Yogi commented: The TMC government of West Bengal, driven by political appeasement, introduced this reservation in 2010 by forcibly including 118 Muslim castes into the OBC category. This approach of prioritising political interests over national welfare by the INDI Alliance must be denounced and exposed.

He criticised the Mamata Banerjee government of West Bengal for forcefully encroaching upon the rights of OBCs.

The Honorable High Courts reversal of the TMC governments unconstitutional action is a significant rebuke. Such unconstitutional acts cannot be tolerated. Dr BR Ambedkar reiterated this point numerous times in the Constituent Assembly.

He explained that in India, reservation provisions were established for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and after the Mandal Commission, the reservation was instituted for Other Backward Classes, taking into account their social and economic backwardness.

The Constitution of India never allows reservation on the basis of religion. Baba Saheb had repeatedly warned the country that the country was divided on the basis of religion and we should not create any such situation which would push the country towards partition.

Describing the decision of the Calcutta High Court as an example, the chief minister emphasised that even in Karnataka, the Congress government has made similar encroachments on the rights of OBCs by providing reservations to Muslims.

Similar actions have been taken in Andhra Pradesh as well. It is crucial to strongly oppose all such measures. Any unconstitutional act that threatens to divide India and weaken its foundation should not be accepted at all, he said.
The West Bengal CID arrested one person from the state's Bongaon area in North 24 Parganas district for his alleged involvement in the "murder" of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar, an officer said on Friday.

The man, a butcher by profession, has admitted during interrogation that he had helped the other accused in chopping the victim's body before disposing the parts in different locations, the officer claimed.

Bengal Police confirmed the murder the Anar, an Awami League MP from Jhenaidah-4 segment in Bangladesh, on Wednesday after the victim went missing from Kolkata on May 13.

State CID sleuths on Friday took the arrested person to the Bhangar area where the chopped body parts were put in plastic bags and scattered across different places, he said.

"The accused is a Bangladeshi citizen and a butcher by profession. He had entered India illegally and was staying in Mumbai hiding his true identity.

"He was called to Kolkata a couple of months back as a part of the plan to kill Anar. He has admitted that he was an accomplice to the four men who murdered the politician inside the flat and helped them in skinning and chopping the body," the police officer told PTI.

The arrested accused would be produced at a court in Barasat later Friday, he said, adding that a team of CID officers were in the process of searching for the victim's body parts at the Krishnamati village in Bhangar where the butcher had led them.

An initial probe also found out that the MP's close friend Akhtaruzzaman, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime, the senior police officer said.

A team of the West Bengal CID has visited Bangladesh on Thursday to interrogate the three accused who were arrested by Bangladesh police in connection with the case.

The MP's friend has a flat in Kolkata, and is probably in the US at present, he said.

Circumstantial evidence indicated that the MP was first strangulated and killed after which his body was chopped into pieces, police claimed.

The search for the missing MP, who reportedly arrived in Kolkata on May 12 to undergo medical treatment, began after Gopal Biswas, a resident of Baranagar in north Kolkata and an acquaintance of the Bangladeshi politician, filed a complaint with the local police on May 18.

Anar had stayed at Biswas's house upon arrival.

In his complaint, Biswas stated that Anar left his Baranagar residence for a doctor's appointment in the afternoon of May 13, while stating that he would be back home for dinner.

Biswas claimed that the Bangladesh MP went incommunicado since May 17, which prompted him to file a missing complaint a day later.
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the killing of an elderly woman in Nandigram in Purba Medinipur district.

Bose directed Banerjee to take immediate action and submit an action taken report to him, a source told PTI.

In an official communication, Bose "cautioned" Banerjee to end what he described as a "blood bath" and ensure all necessary actions are taken within the parameters of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

The governor expressed strong disapproval of what he termed state government-sponsored violence in Nandigram and stressed that any constitutional violations would be taken seriously, with appropriate actions to follow. The communication was sent to the state secretariat on Thursday evening.

"He directed Banerjee to take immediate action and send an action taken report to him immediately as she is mandated to do under Article 167 of the Constitution of India. Any violation of the Constitution will be viewed seriously and appropriate action will be taken. The CM should take effective action within the parameters of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)," the source added.

A woman BJP worker from the Scheduled Caste community was killed in Nandigram on Wednesday night, triggering large-scale protests by saffron party activists there, police said.

The region, which falls under the Tamluk Lok Sabha seat and is considered to be the backyard of Bengal's Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, is scheduled to vote on May 25.

As part of the protest, BJP workers burned tyres, blocked roads, and closed shops in Nandigram on Thursday, alleging that TMC-backed criminals were responsible for the killing of Rathibala Arhi, a saffron party worker in Sonachura village.

Police said Rathibala's son Sanjay and seven others were injured after unidentified assailants attacked them on Wednesday night.

To control the situation, police, central forces, and RAF personnel had to resort to a baton charge to disperse the mob. One person has been detained in connection with the alleged murder.
A rally by monks was organized in Kolkata on Friday condemning Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's recent remarks against certain monks of Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevasharam Sangha.

Christened as "Sant Swabhiman Yatra," the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) along with members of the Bangiya Sanyasi Samaj, an apex body of saints in the state, held the rally from North Kolkata's Bagbazar to Shimla Street, the ancestral residence of Swami Vivekananda.

"We condemn the remarks by the honourable chief minister against us. We are pained and feel insulted by the derogatory remarks. She is not following Raj Dharma," a protesting monk said.

Senior VHP leader Sourish Mukherjee said, "Due to vote bank politics, the chief minister is making such remarks against revered institutions like Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevasharam Sangha."

In a recent election rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the TMC supremo of threatening monks for vote bank politics.

Banerjee, defending her stance, had said she only criticized specific individuals of those monastic orders and not the institutions.

Modi's remarks came a day after miscreants vandalised the Ramakrishna Mission (RKM) premises in Jalpaiguri and threatened monks and other employees at gunpoint.

An RKM official suggested that a local land mafia was behind the early Sunday morning incident, which was reportedly a matter of property dispute.

The RKM has lodged a complaint at Bhaktinagar police station against a local tough and his associates.

Following Banerjee's comment, political tension intensified as both the BJP and the TMC used the development to galvanize their respective support bases ahead of the elections.
The BJP on Friday slammed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over the Swati Maliwal assault case and claimed that his AAP will suffer such a defeat in the Lok Sabha polls here that deposits of its candidates will be forfeited.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will lose at the hustings as people are angry over the incident, the BJP claimed, referring to the alleged assault on Maliwal by Kejriwal's personal assistant Bibhav Kumar at the CM's residence on May 13.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters a day before polling in Delhi, party national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia alleged that the chief minister is trying his best to save Kumar. It was at the Kejriwal's behest that his aide assaulted Maliwal, Bhatia claimed.

Kumar was arrested after an FIR was registered at the Civil Lines police station on a complaint from Maliwal, in which she claimed that he hit her with "full force again and again" and she was "kicked and slapped seven-to-eight times".

"Maliwal has said that Kumar and others slapped her seven-to-eight times in the presence of Arvind Kejriwal at his residence and they also used indecent language against her. It is bizarre that Kejriwal has maintained silence over the incident. What a shameless and cheap person he is," Bhatia said.

Kejriwal in an interview to PTI on Wednesday said justice be served with a fair investigation into Maliwal assault case as there are two versions of it.

The BJP spokesperson alleged that to hide the truth about Kejriwal's involvement in the assault, footage from CCTV cameras at the CM's residence had been edited and Kumar's mobile-phone formatted.

"He (Kejriwal) should not underestimate the power of people. There is anger among people. When polling is held tomorrow, people will inflict such damage to his party's prospect with their votes that even its deposits will be forfeited," Bhatia said.

The seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital will go to polls on May 25 in the sixth round of the seven-phase general elections, and Bhatia exuded confidence that the BJP win all of these again.

The BJP has won all the seats in Delhi in the last two polls -- 2014 and 2019.
Key Points:

China has sanctioned twelve major US defense companies and ten executives, citing arms sales to Taiwan and US sanctions related to Russia as justification.

The move marks an escalation in Chinas use of economic measures to retaliate against actions it deems detrimental to its interests.

These sanctions further exacerbate ongoing tensions between the US and China, casting a shadow over future diplomatic and economic relations.

China Imposes Sanctions on US Defense Companies Over Taiwan, Russia

In a move signaling a further escalation of tensions between the worlds two largest economies, China announced sanctions against twelve US defense companies and ten senior executives on Wednesday. The sanctions, which include asset freezes and travel bans, are in retaliation for ongoing US arms sales to Taiwan and recent US sanctions on Chinese companies with alleged ties to Russia.

Get alerts:

Targeting US Defense Giants

The Chinese governments recent sanctions directly impact key players in the US defense sector. Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and General Dynamics, all prominent defense contractors providing military equipment to the United States and its international partners, are among the sanctioned entities. This action represents the second instance in 2024 when China imposed sanctions on US defense companies due to their arms sales to Taiwan. Previously, in April 2024, Boeing Defense, Space & Security, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, and General Dynamics Land Systems were placed on Chinas unreliable entities list, citing their participation in arms sales to Taiwan.

The current sanctions represent an escalation of these previous measures. In addition to targeting corporate entities, the Chinese government has specifically named individual executives from Northrop Grumman Corporation and General Dynamics. This direct targeting of individuals associated with these companies signifies a more assertive approach in expressing displeasure with US actions related to Taiwan.

Two Key Grievances Fueling Retaliation

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has articulated two distinct justifications for implementing these sanctions. First, the Chinese government asserts that the United States is in violation of the One China principle by supplying arms to Taiwan. This principle, a cornerstone of Chinas foreign policy, maintains that Taiwan is not a separate nation but a province of China. Therefore, from the Chinese perspective, any sale of weaponry to Taiwan constitutes direct interference in Chinas domestic affairs, undermining its sovereignty.

Secondly, the sanctions represent a direct response to recent actions taken by the United States government against Chinese businesses. Specifically, the US imposed sanctions on several Chinese companies accused of providing material support to Russias efforts to evade sanctions imposed due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Chinese government contends that these accusations lack merit and represent an infringement upon the legal rights and interests of the implicated Chinese companies and personnel.

China Invokes Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law

China is employing its Anti-foreign Sanctions Law, enacted in 2021, to justify these retaliatory measures. This law grants Beijing the authority to impose countermeasures against foreign entities deemed to be harming Chinas interests through what it considers discriminatory or unjustified sanctions.

Impact and Future Implications

While the immediate impact of these sanctions on the targeted US companies remains unclear, the move carries significant symbolic weight. It underscores Chinas growing assertiveness on the global stage and its willingness to leverage economic tools to counter what it perceives as hostile actions.

This latest development is expected to strain US-China relations further and complicate efforts to find common ground on critical global issues. The sanctions also threaten to disrupt the global defense industry, potentially impacting future arms deals and collaborations.




A new childcare subsidy scheme is to be offered to working parents in Northern Ireland as part of a 25 million package of measures.

The investment announced by Education Minister Paul Givan also includes a plan to provide all children in the region with a minimum of 22.5 hours a week of funded pre-school education in the year prior to going to primary school.

At present, only 40% of children in Northern Ireland receive 22.5 hours of pre-school education, with the rest availing of 12.5 hours of part-time, pre-school provision.

Mr Givan said 2,200 new full-time places (an increase of 10%) would be on offer by September 2025, with continued expansion from then on.

In terms of childcare, working parents in Northern Ireland can currently secure 20% off their bills through a UK-wide, tax-free scheme run through HMRC.

The new Stormont-funded subsidy will see the parents who are eligible for the tax-free childcare scheme receive a further 15% reduction in their costs, with the Department of Education providing a top-up directly to childcare providers.

The Stormont subsidy, which is set to be rolled out in September, will initially only apply to children of pre-primary school ages.

Mr Givan said the initiative, when combined with the 20% reduction through the UK scheme, would save parents with two children in full-time childcare about 8,000 a year.

The minister said he would like to increase the subsidy above 15% if more funding became available.

The early learning and childcare package unveiled by the minister will also offer direct support to providers, with the minister vowing to both stabilise and expand the sector. That will include direct interventions to help childcare facilities at risk of closure.

The minister visited a Sure Start centre in east Belfast on Thursday afternoon after securing the approval of his Executive colleagues for the package.

The Sure Start programme supports parents with children aged under four living in disadvantaged areas.

This is an ambitious package of measures for early learning and childcare representing the most significant enhancement of early years investment in Northern Ireland in decades, said Mr Givan.

This investment clearly demonstrates that, despite an extremely challenging budget position, the Executive remains committed to making support for young children, their families and the services they rely on, a top priority.

Mr Givan had secured the 25 million of ring-fenced funding for the development of a new childcare and early learning strategy as part of the budget agreed by the Executive last month.

The minister has previously told the Assembly it would cost 400 million to fully fund a comprehensive strategy.

He told reporters that the measures announced on Thursday were interim steps ahead of the development of a longer-term early learning and childcare strategy. He insisted the package was only the start.

I very much welcome the Executives commitment to the delivery of 22.5 hours funded pre-school education for all children in their pre-school year, he added.

This is an unprecedented expansion of early years developmental provision in over 25 years and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the lives of children in Northern Ireland for decades to come.

It is a necessarily ambitious programme which will ease current pressures on parents and providers and lay the foundation upon which I intend to build.

This is, by no means, the limit of my ambitions, but rather an important first step towards a full early learning and childcare strategy.
The Government has done some decent stuff in Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris has said.

The Northern Ireland Secretary, who is not seeking re-election at the General Election, said he would leave it to other people to mark his homework over his time in the region.

He was speaking in Belfasts Titanic Quarter during a visit by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as campaigning for the election continues.

Asked to assess his time in Northern Ireland, Mr Heaton-Harris said: I will let other people mark my homework.

He added: I have been privileged to be the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, privileged the Prime Minister reappointed me to this role.

A lot has happened in that time.

The Prime Minister negotiated the Windsor Framework which solved a lot of the problems with the Northern Ireland Protocol.

We together did the Command Paper that got Stormont up and running.

So, I think we have done some decent stuff.

Mr Heaton-Harris said: Id like to thank the Prime Minister for all the support and the flexibility you have allowed me to get some of this stuff over the line.

He was first appointed as Northern Ireland Secretary by former prime minister Liz Truss in 2022 and was retained in the role by Mr Sunak.

Mr Heaton-Harris was heavily involved in efforts to negotiate an agreement to ease DUP concerns over post-Brexit trading arrangements, after the unionist party collapsed the Stormont executive in February 2022.

The DUP ended its two-year boycott of devolved government in Northern Ireland in February this year after its leadership struck a deal with the Government over measures to address the so-called Irish Sea trading border and sovereignty.

This led to the Government publishing its Safeguarding the Union Command Paper.
HIGHLIGHTS Samsung will reportedly host its Galaxy Unpacked event on July 10 in Paris The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 could also be launched on June 10.

The next-gen foldable by Samsung has started doing rounds on the internet. Samsung fans are eagerly waiting for the new Galaxy Z Fold 6 to launch and we have something to keep that excitement going. According to rumours, the South Korean tech giant can host its Galaxy Unpacked event on July 10 in Paris, France. There are a total of three devices including the Galaxy Z Fold 6 that have been rumoured to launch on that day. Read along to know more about it.

What could Samsung announce at the Galaxy Unpacked event?

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

First and foremost, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. Samsungs next high-end smartphone is said to debut on July 10. Not much has been revealed about this smartphone. However, there could be some design changes. The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 might have a smaller crease on the inner display and a refreshed camera module. Moreover, it is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Also read: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 surfaces on the internet with design changes: Check them out

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Obviously, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 has to be there. It is rumoured to be backed by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. Furthermore, it recently surfaced on the Geekbench database with 8GB RAM. It could feature a dual 12-megapixel camera setup on the back and a 4000mAh battery.

Samsung Galaxy Ring

Samsung launched its Galaxy Ring along with the Galaxy S24 series. After that, the company showcased it at MWC 2024 in Barcelona. The Galaxy Ring will come in three color options: Silver, Gold, and Black, and will be offered in nine different sizes ranging from size 5 to 13. It aims to be one of the lightest wearable smart rings, weighing between 2.3 grams to 2.9 grams. Samsung plans to debut a new health scoring system called My Vitality Score with the ring, which will also be integrated into the Galaxy Watch 6 series and Galaxy S24 phones.
Despite the steep price hike, the Google Pixel 8a stands out for its compact design, excellent camera capabilities, and clean Android experience, bolstered by long-term software support. Its AI-driven features enhance usability as well. It provides a Pixel 8-like experience at a lower cost. However, it does have drawbacks such as slow charging speeds and occasional heating issues, which could be significant for some users. Especially since the smartphone market is packed with options in the same price including the beloved iQOO 12 and OnePlus 12R.

The Google Pixel 8a is the latest addition to Googles smartphone lineup, positioned as a mid-range option with a focus on AI-powered features. Priced at 52,999, the Google Pixel 8a aims to provide a premium experience without reaching flagship prices. However, the question still plaguing most minds is why this phone even exists when it is so similar to the Pixel 8 (review) and pretty close in price too. The Pixel 8a sees a massive price hike of 9,000 compared to its predecessor, which is huge in a price-conscious market like India.

Furthermore, it competes against some heavyweights such as the iQOO 12 (review), OnePlus 12R (review) and of course, its own brethren, the Google Pixel 8. How will the phone fare in this competitive landscape? Is it dead on arrival or is there a niche audience that will still appreciate the phone despite its expensive price tag? Lets delve into that and more in my detailed Google Pixel 8a review.

Google Pixel 8a Review: Build and Design

The Google Pixel 8a maintains a compact form factor with a 6.1-inch display, a rarity in 2024. The phone is available in several trendy colours, including Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe (my personal favourite). Despite its compact size, the device is on the thicker side at 8.9mm and weighs 188 grams, which is a bit heavy compared to current standards.

The phones design is clean and minimalistic, with a velvety smooth back finish and metal sides. The back panel looks deceptively like glass and doesnt attract fingerprints. The volume rocker and power button are on the right side, but the volume buttons placement could be more ergonomic.

It includes a USB Type-C 3.2 port for charging and data transfer but lacks a headphone jack, which is common now. The in-display fingerprint scanner performs well in most conditions. The retail box only includes a Type-A to Type-C charging cable, but theres no charging brick.

The Pixel 8a is IP67 certified, providing decent protection against dust and water, though an IP68 rating would have been better at this price point. The use of Gorilla Glass 3 for the display is also quite disappointing, as newer generations of Gorilla Glass offer better durability.

Google Pixel 8a Review: Display

The Google Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch Full HD+ display. Most importantly, it now has 120 Hz refresh rate support, a substantial upgrade over the 90 Hz display of the Pixel 7a. However, the thick bezels around the display detract from the modern aesthetic, especially considering the price range. The bezels are also not even which is disappointing since phones like the Nothing Phone (2) have shown us that it is possible to spring for even bezels at this price.

Watching videos and browsing content on the Google Pixel 8a is enjoyable, thanks to its vibrant colours and good contrast. The phones display is also pretty bright. It is rated at 2,000 nits of peak brightness and in my tests, I got a reading of 1280 nits under direct sunlight in High Brightness Mode.

The display could benefit from using a higher-grade Gorilla Glass for better durability and scratch resistance. Gorilla Glass 3 is far too dated for 2024.

How does the Tensor G3 perform?

Powered by the Tensor G3 chipset, the Google Pixel 8a offers improved performance over its predecessor. It comes with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage. Thankfully, Google has chosen to offer a 256 GB model this year and not limit it to 128 GB like on the Pixel 7a, which was the need of the hour.

While the Google Pixel 8a performs well in day-to-day scenarios, it does suffer from occasional heating issues, particularly during intensive tasks like gaming or prolonged camera use. So, it is not a great option for power users and gamers who would have a better experience with the likes of an iQOO 12 or a OnePlus 12. This is an area where Google needs to improve, as thermal management has been a recurring issue with their Tensor-powered devices.

In benchmarks, the Google Pixel 8a delivers decent scores but they lag behind competition significantly. Starting off with AnTuTu v10, the Pixel 8a scores under a million while the iQOO 12 flies past it with a 2M+ score and the OnePlus 12R flaunts a 1.3M score. In GeekBench, the Pixel 8a bests the OnePlus 12R but it cannot touch the iQOO 12s score.

The phone scores 11,183 in PCMark Work which is decent enough to be competitive here. However, the phone does throttle significantly, which has been the case with the Pixels of the yesteryears too. It throttles to 66 per cent of its peak performance in just 15 minutes which is quite poor throttling performance. So, the phone does throttle significantly during intensive tasks such as playing Genshin Impact or rendering high-quality videos.

As for GPU Benchmarks, the scores are decent but they pale in comparison to the iQOO 12. The same is confirmed in real-world gaming tests. The iQOO 12 can easily handle high graphics gaming with minimal frame drops, but the same cannot be said for the Pixel 8a, especially during prolonged gaming sessions.

Google Pixel 8a Review: Software

The software experience on the Google Pixel 8a is one of its strongest points. Running stock Android 14, it provides a clean and intuitive user interface free of bloatware. Googles commitment to long-term updates ensures that users will receive the latest features and security patches for years to come. Seven years, to be exact. The phone runs on Android 14 out-of-the-box and promises seven years of software updates, which is a significant advantage for longevity.

Photo credit: Google

AI-powered features like Magic Eraser, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, AI wallpapers, and Magic Editor enhance the overall usability of the device, making photo editing a fun and fruitful experience. The integration of AI into the user experience is seamless, and these features work effectively to improve daily tasks and enhance creativity.

How good are the Pixel 8a cameras?

The Google Pixel 8a is equipped with a 64MP primary sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide sensor on the back, along with a 13MP front camera. The primary camera has OIS capabilities and dual pixel PDAF. Unlike the Pixel 8, the ultrawide shooter on the Pixel 8a doesnt have auto focus.

The primary camera excels in capturing detailed photos with vibrant colors and good contrast. In bright light, the Google Pixel 8a excels with accurate colour reproduction and fine detail preservation, maintaining Googles reputation for strong camera software optimisation. The dynamic range is well-handled, ensuring that both highlights and shadows are captured effectively.

This makes the Pixel 8a particularly adept at landscape and outdoor photography, where lighting conditions can vary widely.

Portrait mode on the Pixel 8a benefits from Googles advanced computational photography, producing pleasing bokeh effects and relatively accurate subject isolation.

The ultra-wide sensor also performs well, maintaining consistency in color treatment across different shooting modes. While not as strong as the main sensor, it offers good performance with minimal distortion.

Low-light performance is impressive, with minimal noise and good detail retention. The AI-driven camera software helps in producing social media-ready images straight out of the camera. The auto-focus system is reliable and quick, further enhancing its usability in low-light conditions. Video recording supports 4K resolution and maintains stability, though the high contrast can sometimes appear unnatural.

The cameras real strength lies in its software features. Magic Eraser and other AI tools provide significant enhancements to photo editing, making it easy to remove unwanted objects and adjust images creatively.

How good is the battery life?

The Google Pixel 8a houses a 4492mAh battery, a slight upgrade from the previous model. It comfortably lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use, even with features like always-on display and 120Hz refresh rate enabled.

However, the charging speed is a notable downside, as it only supports 18W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging. This is quite slow compared to other devices in its price range, and Google continues to omit the charger from the box.

Should you buy the Pixel 8a?

Despite the steep price hike, the Google Pixel 8a stands out for its compact design, excellent camera capabilities, and clean Android experience, bolstered by long-term software support. Its AI-driven features enhance usability as well. It provides a Pixel 8-like experience at a lower cost. However, it does have drawbacks such as slow charging speeds and occasional heating issues, which could be significant for some users. Especially since the smartphone market is packed with options in the same price including the beloved iQOO 12 and OnePlus 12R.

Additionally, the 9,000 price hike from its predecessors will most likely not go down well with the Indian audience. Overall, the Google Pixel 8a is a solid choice for Pixel enthusiasts, though it may not meet the needs of users seeking the fastest charging or top-tier performance.
Former IBM Chief Accessibility Officer envisions digital inclusion transformation for Taiwan's manufacturing industry

Frances West, a pioneering advocate for digital inclusion in the corporate world, is looking to bring this innovative concept to Taiwan.

As IBM's first Chief Accessibility Officer, West's tenure was distinguished by her efforts to embed human-first design principles into technological innovation. In 2013, West testified before the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations in support of the US ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and has also advocated at the United Nations for the role of technology in advancing the human rights of those with disabilities.

In 2016, West established FrancesWestCo, a global advisory firm focused on making inclusion a core business strategy. With the publication of her book "Authentic Inclusion Drives Disruptive Innovation," she aims to introduce these concepts to Taiwan's tech industries. Speaking to DIGITIMES Asia, West shares her thoughts on how she envisions Taiwan's manufacturing firms as potential pioneers in digital inclusion.

DT: Could you explain what is the concept of digital inclusion?

So the whole concept of digital inclusion is, is a very simple concept. It's about information technology. Due to how technology underpins everything, from how we live, work, socialize and learn. Any government, society, or business has to keep in mind their potential to create a technology barrier. Because if we do, you're leaving a portion of the population behind.

Accessibility is a way of articulating the standards of human experience. In other words, the digital experience is very vague but when you have accessibility in mind the standards and practices can be better defined, providing the best cases every company can follow.

For example, in Taiwan over 25% of the population is over 60. Accommodation from technology would inevitably be needed for some people.

More broadly speaking the first generation of the technology is just for processing. The speed is how much input and how much output, then it was about productivity. Now, it is all about personalization, or just technology, the form factors.

Everyone's phones are different because we set different parameters. We are entering an age where technology should augment human abilities. So we want to make sure that all the businesses, government policies, and everybody involved in technology, understand that we have an obligation and responsibility to deliver "the digital promise" to everybody in society.

DT: As IBM's first Chief of accessibility, what inspired the company in the first place to take on initiatives to be more inclusive in the workplace, and how have you seen it evolve over your time there?

IBM as a technology company has sustained for 120 years for a reason. At the very foundational level, the founder of IBM has a concept of respect for the individual's abilities. In other words, the idea of authentic inclusion was rooted in the history of IBM.

IBM for instance hired the first blind engineer back in 1914. So that's 76 years before the Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires companies to hire people with disabilities. TJ Watson, the IBM founder, felt that a competitive company would require a diverse mindset, points of view, and experience. The mindset of really respecting individuals and differences becomes the culture of the company.

When I took over the organization of human ability and accessibility at IBM, the Senior VP of research told me accessibility is about designing for everyone. This is of utmost importance to aging people or people with disabilities, meaning your designs have to be the simplest and the easiest to use. Simplicity is the most difficult thing to do because there is elegance in it.

DT: How do you think the concept of digital inclusion should be implemented structurally in a corporation?

I think the mindset in the organization has to be top-down. Because the setup of a for-profit enterprise is a top-down structure. This is the dilemma of digital inclusion, a lot of times they are implemented bottom-up by the employees. So we have to reverse the thinking, to build it in the design of your company infrastructure before we even build it.

If you can tell the people requiring special needs that we want you to come into the design process of the products and workplace from the start then you can benefit everyone. Getting feedback and mindsets from average people, whether it is your aging grandmother or cousin with hearing impairment or autism. I think the Gen Z'ers especially, will respond very favorably, and that becomes your differentiation.

DT: What is the legislative landscape for digital inclusion in the US and beyond? Do you think the laws could compel companies to implement more digital accessibility considerations in their products and workplaces?

In the US, President Biden has issued a White House executive order on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce. So he's calling all the federal agencies to beef up their accessibility decisions. The Department of Justice has just come out with a new ruling. Mandating the GSA (General Service administer), which is the procurement part of the United States government, to meet accessibility requirements. In other words, it means if you're a supplier to the US federal government, whether it is for building missiles or buying paper clips, you need to declare the status of its accessibility.

The European Union also recently passed the European accessibility law, which will go into full force in 2025. In addition, Canada also came out with its accessibility law. So these are global legislation.

All this can be traced back to the establishment of the United Nation's CRPD(Conventions on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities). Meaning countries could take the UN's guidance and start establishing their legislation. 147 countries each start setting legislation like an incoming wave. It's just a matter of when so if you are a Taiwan supplier to any country around the world sooner or later it will affect you.

DT: How do you see digital inclusion being implemented differently in Taiwan?

I think you could have a kind of provocative idea here in Taiwan, like we just mentioned disability efforts so far have been bottom-up. However, because Taiwan is so uniquely qualified to implement these initiatives, there may be an opportunity for a top-down approach from the start.

Imagine if we take the manufacturing sector, which I don't think we have yet to have any kind of digital inclusion in place and convince them to take on these initiatives.

Get the leaderships of Acer, Foxconn, and TSMC together and tell them their customers, whether it's Apple or other Western-based clientele are all going to be either EU or American-mandated at some point, so you may as well start implementing them now.

DT: How could manufacturing companies develop products with digital inclusion in mind?

I've worked on projects where the physical product didn't include a speaker. That experience has taught me someone needing audio output such as if they are blind or have low vision, if it's not built into the manufacturing process, then it's simply not available to them. The only workaround would be to design a mobile app, which is less than ideal. This aligns with the concept of "shift left", which is the practice of moving testing, quality, and performance evaluation early in the development process, often before any code is written. The same principle applies to manufacturing: if you create a product without considering accessibility for all users, it will be costly to fix later. I think the leaders in design and manufacturing must ensure their products work for everyone. This includes details like the amount of force needed to press a button. In the US, we have regulations specifying the pressure required to push a button, and these considerations should be part of the manufacturing process. There's a significant opportunity to ensure every product we build is accessible to everyone from the start.

The Digital Inclusion and Innovation Summit taken place on April 25, 2024, was the first major summit in Taiwan and Asia to address this topic of digital inclusion. The summit is specifically aimed at helping tech industry executives understand the importance of digital inclusion and accessibility for business operations and opportunities.

Notable figures in the field such as Tela Lupushore, Chief Reframer at Reframe.Work Inc., Dr. Christopher Lee, Vice President and General Manager at the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), and Thomas Logan, Founder and CEO of Equal Entry, joined West to speak on how the concept could be implemented industry-wide in Taiwan.

Francis West's tenure was distinguished by efforts to embed human-first design principles into technological innovation
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Irelands deputy premier has hit out at eurosceptic Irish MEPs and said it was time to push back against destructive anti-EU forces.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said that Ireland had become known as a country that had benefited from European Union membership, but which also regularly elected politicians to the parliament who undermine the union.

The Fianna Fail leader said that Ireland had one of the highest proportions of its MEPs in an extreme left group in parliament, which he accused of speaking more than others, but by every measure achieve almost nothing.

Ireland has 13 MEPs, with all five Fine Gael MEPs in the EPP group, two Fianna Fail MEPs in the Renew group, two Green MEPs in the Green alliance group, and the four remaining MEPs in the Left group.

Mr Martin, who was speaking at the launch of his partys European election manifesto, said: Irelands MEPs currently include Europes loudest defenders of worldwide dictatorships and opponents of the very idea that European values need to be defended.

He added: We must always strongly represent our interests and continue to be willing to stand against the majority when we disagree with a policy.

It is time for Ireland to step up and play its role in pushing back (against) destructive anti-EU forces which are more active today than ever before. For far too long, weve taken the European Parliament for granted.

When pressed to name which MEPs he considered to be eurosceptic, Mr Martin said: Clare Daly, Mick Wallace are anti the European Union. They speak out consistently against the European Union.

Sinn Fein have taken an anti-European Union stance all of the time. Luke Ming (Flanagan) equally is anti-European Union. No question about it.

Thats a very fundamental issue on the agenda here. The vast majority of the Irish people believe the European Union is good for Ireland.

So theres a fundamental question: are we going to elect MEPs who see it as their objective to oppose the union, who sometimes declare the union to be part of a Nato-militarised operation, who dont accept the bona fides of Europes role internationally, for example, in terms of humanitarian aid  and always, always takes an anti-EU perspective and lack balance when it comes to policies that emanate from the European Union.

Asked about the comments, Mr Wallace said it was ridiculous to suggest that MEPs who critically engaged with Europe were anti-EU.

He said he and Ms Daly were among the hardest-working MEPs in Brussels.

He added: We are critical of EU policies because they often hurt ordinary working people and farmers and the environment.

We believe in an EU that serves the people and the planet.

Mr McManus said Sinn Fein MEPs went to Brussels to stand up for Irish interests, adding: Micheal Martins MEPs go there to roll over.

The Midlands North West representative said he had a 99.83% attendance record, affected by a brief spell of medical leave.

He added: Trying to make that the subject of political point-scoring is frankly beneath someone who occupies the office of Tanaiste.

Perhaps the Fianna Fail leader should focus on his own partys track record of failing to fix the housing crisis instead of these desperate attempts to distract from his Governments disastrous time in office.

Mr Flanagan dismissed the Tanaistes remarks in a short statement which made reference to Fianna Fail in-fighting in the Midlands North West constituency.

He said: I dont care about what Michael Martin thinks. Hes irrelevant.

He cant even get his own candidates in Midlands North West to co-operate.

He should get his own house in order before he preaches to anyone else.
The Dunleer Town Centre First plan will be officially unveiled by Louth County Council at the Market House, Dunleer, on Tuesday 28th May 2024.

Following Louth County Councils success in securing funding under the Governments Town Centre First policy initiative, Dunleer is one of 26 towns in Ireland to develop a Town Centre First Plan, an ambitious strategy which aims to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction and breathe new life into town centres, creating towns that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit.

The plan has been developed following a collaborative approach between the Dunleer Town Team, local stakeholders, elected members, Louth County Council, urban designers Building Design Partnership Ltd (BDP) and feedback from the local community.

It covers the importance of place-making, town centre living, the social and economic purpose of the town, and responds to emerging opportunities such as those linked to remote working, climate action and digitalisation. It also sets out a vision that is intended to stimulate investment from the private sector.

A series of actions have been identified in the Dunleer Town Centre First Plan, including:

Creating better links to the White River, an underutilised asset running parallel to the Main Street.

Establishing biodiverse links, a network of pedestrian loops linking Dunleer's public open spaces and improving connectivity between different areas of the town.

In a bid to target vacancy, the reuse of a vacant building on the main street as a new public library is proposed.

The revitalization of the Main Street itself to create an enhanced pedestrian experience, along with a suite of smaller scale enhancement initiatives to increase vibrancy and attractiveness in the heart of the town.

Joan Martin, Chief Executive, Louth County Council said:

The development of a Town Centre First Plan for Dunleer is a unique opportunity to explore the perceptions the local community has of its town, and to get a shared ambition of shaping its future growth. The plan is a framework for revitalisation and adaptation. It has a multi-layered approach that brings together development strategies, town wide proposals and actions, projects for buildings and open spaces and community-led initiatives.

The Town Centre First Plan will rely on a phased delivery in which each intervention will unlock the development of further projects and will rely on collaboration between Louth County Councils Town Team, public agencies and bodies and private stakeholders.

The local community are invited to attend the official launch of this ambitious plan for Dunleer, on Tuesday 28th May from 3pm to 4pm in the Market House.
By BOB MARTIN

Eagle Times Staff

CLAREMONT, N.H.  A familiar face will be taking on the role of SAU 6 superintendent of schools, with the school board announcing on Thursday that Christopher A. Pratt has been appointed to the position after serving as the interim superintendent for the past three months.

Pratt has more than three decades of experience in educational leadership, management and administrative work, and he also has nine years of experience under his belt as a superintendent in Vermont.

What Ive learned in the three months is that we have such a group of dedicated people through the SAU 6, he said. Teachers, parents, school board members; I found out very quickly that they all want the same thing. They want what is best for the kids and to grow the education of the kids in Claremont and Unity.

Pratt said this has been very evident and one of the main reasons he took the job. With this being his 31st year in education, he had plenty of experience in a variety of roles and locations. At SAU 6 there is a level of commitment and different types of connection with their students, he said.

For me, my approach is that I just want to get to know the people Im working with and the community that Im a part of now, he said. I want to be out and about in the community and in schools, and this can really lead the next direction we have to take.

Pratt said that when starting out, it is important to be a good listener and not be so reactive.

In order to be a good leader, you have to be present and build relationships, Pratt said. You need to not be afraid to ask questions. I dont have all the answers and cant pretend to.

Before his time as interim superintendent, Pratt served as the Stevens High School principal. According to information provided by SAU 6 School Board Chair Arlene Hawkins, he was previously superintendent at Windham Northeast Supervisory Union in Bellows Falls, Vermont, and the Windham Southwest Supervisory Union in Wilmington, Vermont. While there, he oversaw multiple school districts, managed large budgets and supervised administrative staff

Pratt has a C.A.G.S in Educational Leadership and Management from Fitchburg State College, as well as an M.S. in Education from Simmons College; a B.A. in Fine Arts from Framingham State College; and an Associate degree in Fine Arts from Dean College.

Hawkins said that Pratt brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role.

A motivated and highly energetic Education Leader, Mr. Pratt has demonstrated his success in administration, curriculum development, budget management, technology, student success programming for day and residential programs, special education, restorative practices, and hybrid learning, Hawkins wrote in an email to the Eagle Times announcing the appointment. He is committed to providing student success from a social, emotional and academic approach.

Hawkins outlined Pratts vision for SAU 6, saying that he envisions a future for SAU 6 where every student is engaged, empowered and excelling in their education. He has a goal of creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, focused on academic achievement, personal growth and social responsibility.

One vision he has is in student-centered learning, as Pratt believes in tailoring to each students individual needs. This is through incorporating hands-on personal learning and prioritizing the safety and well-being of students and staff.

Pratt is also focused on inclusive education, as he is committed to providing equal opportunities for students of all backgrounds and abilities. He has experience in Special Education, including IDEA, which will be vital in his goals.

Another focus is community involvement. Pratt wants to shape the educational experience through working with the community by creating strong relationships between the school, parents, and the community at large. This is through school activities and decision-making processes.

Continuous improvement is an area of focus, as well, as Pratt will use his experience in strategic planning and data collection. This will help in identifying what can be improved and create solutions in academic and technical education alike.

I want to move forward in providing the best possible education, Pratt said. I want to build the district to reflect the community, and have people want to move here and work here, based on the work we are doing.

Pratt said an important part to the start of his job is creating a road map to success by working with his coworkers, students, staff and the community.

Were talking to parents, teachers, the mayor and city manager, Pratt said. It is an open process. We dont really have much of a map right now, so I feel like that is important. If you dont have a map, you dont know where your destination is. It is baby steps to get there. We need to do it together.

Hawkins noted that Pratts leadership and commitment to excellence will help with the success of the school and the students involved, in both post-secondary education and trades.

Mr. Pratt is not only bringing his vast experience and innovative vision to SAU6, but also an infectious enthusiasm for education, Hawkins said. He is eager to step into his new role as Superintendent of Schools and is committed to making a positive impact on the students, staff, and community of SAU6. His passion for education and dedication to student success are evident in every aspect of his work. We look forward to the energy, dedication and leadership he will bring to our schools in the years to come.
Eagle Times Staff

SPRINGFIELD, Vt.  On Wednesday, June 19 at 6 p.m., stop by the Springfield Town Library for a presentation on Transformative Tarot. Discover how Tarot and Oracle cards can help transform your mindset, health and life while debunking the fear-based myths around this ancient practice of divination.

During this talk, discover what Tarot/Oracle cards are, how to properly use them, basic spreads, and a simple overview of card meanings. Get hands-on experience by exploring various decks and even practicing intuitive reading.

Charlotte McFarlin, the founder of Magic Mamma Medicine, has over a decade of experience with divination, harnessing intuition, and assisting others on their journey of self-healing through a variety of modalities such as Energy Healing, Yoga, and Intuitive Tarot Readings, to name a few. Explore all her offerings, in person and virtual, at magicmammamedicine.com

This event is free and open to the public. Contact the library at (802)885-3108 with any inquiries or visit https://www.springfieldtownlibrary.org/calendar to sign up.
Entrepreneur in SW China's Chongqing gives hearing-impaired people power to better communicate with world

18:33, May 23, 2024 By Wu Chengliang, Su Yingxiang, Zhong Wenxing, Liu Yi, Xiang Shijia ( People's Daily Online

Tian Ye receives an interview with People's Daily Online. (People's Daily Online/Zhong Wenxing)

During a quiet yet spirited discussion in an office of a startup in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, a hearing-impaired entrepreneur named Tian Ye and his team are ideating strategies to help the hearing-impaired community better appreciate cultural artifacts.

Tian's company, Chongqing Yuermeng Technology Co., Ltd., has developed a platform for sharing the culture of and knowledge about the hearing-impaired community, as well as a sign language dictionary.

The company offers 8,000 educational sign language videos and has introduced a barrier-free sign language guide system for public venues. This system is already being used in nine museums in Chongqing, benefiting more than 10 million people.

Tian Ye works in his office. (People's Daily Online/Zhong Wenxing)

Ninety percent of Tian's team members, many of whom graduated from Chongqing Normal University (CNU), are hearing-impaired. They are committed to addressing the communication and information challenges faced by the hearing-impaired community, and providing them with convenient information support.

During the development of the sign language guide system, Tian and his team prioritized the challenges faced by the hearing-impaired community and their needs, ensuring accurate and easily understandable sign language explanations. After extensive research and improvements, the team successfully developed the guide system.

Looking ahead, Tian aims to work together with more museums and public institutions across the country to meet the information needs of disabled people.

Tian Ye uses sign language to introduce his company. (People's Daily Online/Zhong Wenxing)

He envisions expanding the guide system beyond Chongqing, providing greater convenience and equal opportunities for the hearing-impaired community to engage in dialogue with the world.

Tian aspires to not only enhance the quality of life for the hearing-impaired community through information products and services but also to provide them with more opportunities for social integration.

Tian and his company have received several honors, including Tian being named the Entrepreneur of the Year for Chongqing in 2022. (People's Daily Online/Wu Chengliang)

Tan Yun, a hearing-impaired sign language interpreter from Tian's team, graduated from the School of Educational Sciences at CNU in 2020. She was a volunteer for a sign language volunteer service project at the university, which provided volunteer interpreting services for Tian's company.

"During her time as a sign language teacher under the volunteer service project, Tan trained many people who were able to hear as sign language interpreting volunteers and improved her own sign language skills. After graduation, she became a professional sign language interpreter. She has offered interpreting services at places such as Chongqing Natural History Museum, showcasing exceptional sign language abilities," said Liang Yuyin, a teacher from the Department of Special Education at the School of Educational Sciences, CNU.

"People with hearing impairments possess an incredible capacity to achieve anything, with the exception of hearing," said Tian.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming)
120 years on, Chinese sci-fi charts its own course

10:07, May 24, 2024 By Huang Xinxin, Yu Li ( Xinhua

CHENGDU, May 23 (Xinhua) -- As early as 120 years before the launch of China's Chang'e-6 spacecraft, which aims to retrieve samples from the moon's far side, the Chinese people had already envisioned sending humans to the moon.

In 1904, Huangjiang Diaosou, a Qing Dynasty novelist, penned an unfinished novel depicting human migration to the moon, marking China's first original sci-fi work.

Although he never completed his novel, modern sci-fi writers contributed to a book released at the 15th Xingyun (Nebula) Awards for Chinese Science Fiction held in southwest China's Chengdu from May 17 to 19, featuring extended versions of his intriguing tale.

In the new extensions of the tale, some sci-fi writers depict the protagonist departing from the Wenchang Space Launch Site, the launchpad of the Chang'e-6 spacecraft, to build new cities with the inhabitants of the moon. Others describe humans once again setting off from the moon to further explore the galaxy.

According to veteran sci-fi writer Ling Chen, in addition to continuing the Chinese people's dream of lunar exploration, the new extensions of the novel also advance Chinese sci-fi literature and art.

In the early 1900s, sci-fi was still a nascent genre in Chinese literature, with only a few active authors besides Huangjiang Diaosou.

Renowned Chinese writers Lu Xun and Liang Qichao also sought to introduce Western sci-fi novels to China to stimulate national enthusiasm for modernization. "From the Earth to the Moon," a sci-fi novel by French author Jules Verne, was translated into Chinese by Lu Xun in 1903.

Today, Chinese sci-fi works are making waves globally. Chinese author Liu Cixin's "The Three-Body Problem" has won the Hugo Award for Best Novel, the world's premier sci-fi award, and has been translated into more than 30 languages, with people like Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Hideo Kojima and Niall Ferguson all fans of the book.

Last October, the World Science Fiction Convention, the world's largest and most influential sci-fi event, was held in China for the first time.

The Xingyun (Nebula) Awards for Chinese Science Fiction have also grown into a world-renowned sci-fi literature award comparable to the Nebula Awards of the United States and the Seiun Awards of Japan.

Modern sci-fi is considered a product of the sci-tech and industrial revolutions in the West in the 19th century. Since its introduction to China, Chinese writers have explored nearly all sub-genres of Western sci-fi, including space opera, cyberpunk and time travel.

Chinese sci-fi has greatly evolved over the years and is no longer merely imitating Western sci-fi, said Wang Jinkang, one of China's leading sci-fi writers, adding that while sci-fi universally focuses on the destiny and future of humankind, Chinese sci-fi shares this core feature but offers a distinct perspective.

"Chinese sci-fi provides the Chinese people's insights and solutions to the common dilemmas faced by humankind. People are curious about how Chinese people think and what they will do in the future," said Wu Yan, a sci-fi writer and professor at the Southern University of Science and Technology.

"The Three-Body Problem" is an example," Wu said, explaining that the book explores and addresses global issues from a Chinese perspective.

At the 15th Xingyun (Nebula) Awards for Chinese Science Fiction, another book titled "The Mountain, the Pine, and the Moon: 56 Chinese Science Fiction Writers' Fantasies of Their Hometowns" was released. It is a collection of works by 56 Chinese sci-fi writers, including Liu Cixin, themed around hometown, nostalgia and imagination.

Shi Yi, one of the editors of the book, said that the inspiration behind publishing the collection stems from a desire to develop a distinctive style in Chinese sci-fi. With a civilization steeped in 5000 years of agricultural heritage, the Chinese culture embodies a deep connection to ancestors and homeland, he said.

Li Jingze, vice chairman of the China Writers Association, said that this approach showcases the unique awareness and creative prowess of Chinese sci-fi within the global sci-fi landscape.

"It serves as a new contribution of Chinese sci-fi to global sci-fi literature," said Yan Feng, professor at Fudan University.

The blockbuster "The Wandering Earth," adapted from Liu Cixin's novel, also emphasizes the theme of home by depicting the human race venturing out to find a new solar system for planet Earth to settle as the sun approaches its demise.

"Chinese sci-fi today is no longer an imported product, but a new creation demonstrating the Chinese people's visions of science, the world and the future," Wu said.

Thousands of years ago, the ancient Chinese already used their imagination and questioned the universe through mythology and poetry, which resonates with Chinese sci-fi today.

Chinese sci-fi is now also looking back on Chinese history and philosophy for more inspiration, Wu said, noting that while it has learned from different cultures around the world, Chinese sci-fi remains deeply rooted in Chinese culture, ushering in a period of vibrant development.

"One day in the future, we may launch another book of Chinese sci-fi from Mars. At that moment, people will look at Earth and say, 'The blue planet is the home of those who wrote down the stories, traveled through the universe and created the new world,'" Li Jingze said.

(Xinhua correspondent Tong Fang contributed to the story.)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
AN American author, whose great-grandfather came from Cork, has compiled a new book which brings together speeches and articles exploring the lives of famous Irish emigrants throughout history.

The American Irish Experience, by Frank McGinity, President of the California Branch of the American Irish Historical Society, is a compendium that highlights the renowned and lesser-known Irish men and women who who went to the U.S over the last few centuries.

Among the articles is a piece on a fascinating Capuchin priest who served and was buried in Cork, Fr Albert Bibby.

Born in 1877 in Carlow, he started attending College at the Capuchin friary in Rochestown aged 13, and later attended the Irish college in Ballingeary, where fellow students included Thomas MacDonagh and Tomas MacCurtain.

A hundred years ago, in June, 1924, Fr Bibby was transferred to California, where he did great work in restoring Mission Santa Ines, a Spanish Catholic mission founded more than 100 years earlier.

However, he was in failing health and died in 1925. Fr Bibby was buried outside the chapel of Mission Santa Ines, but decades later an extraordinary event took place, recounts The American Irish Experience.

Bibby was a hero in Ireland, where he was known as the Patriot Priest for his involvement in the countrys fight for freedom against the British. So, in 1958, Bibbys body was exhumed and taken back ceremoniously to Cork.

The book hears from an elderly Irish priest, Fr Gerald Barron, who witnessed the re-burial in Rochestown in 1958 first-hand and was one of the young priests who led the procession from the city of Cork up a rural road to the Capuchin monastery, where Bibby was interred.

The American Irish Experience, edited by Frank McGinity

The book adds: Though his body went home, Bibbys gravestone was left intact at Mission Santa Ines out of deference to his brief, but strong, influence. It still sits there gathering moss and is visited often by mission-goers.

The chapters in The American Irish Experience are based on talks given to the California Branch of the American Irish Historical Society down the decades. One, entitled How Irish Convicts Help Found Australia, tells the story of the transportation system used in England in the 1700s. Convicts were originally sent to America but more than 162,000 would be sent to Australia.

Another story which McGinity is proud of, is about Nicholas Den, who was studying medicine at Dublins Trinity College until his parents ran out of money supporting him.

He set sail to Santa Barbara, California and early on, became the towns doctor. Eventually he would become a successful cattle farmer.

Den also became Santa Barbara first mayor and help lead the transition to peaceful times after the Mexican American War. His finest achievement was saving the Santa Barbara Mission from take over and sale by the Mexican government.

The American Irish Historical Society was founded in Boston in 1897, and Teddy Roosevelt was among its founders. The Society owns a historical building on Fifth Avenue in New York, containing an extensive library of old books and manuscripts. One of its prized possessions is a flag which hung during the Easter Rising.

The Irish government has supported the Society over the years, contributing to the maintenance and improvements to the building.

The Societys purpose originally was to keep the record straight regarding the Irish accomplishments in America.

As President of the California branch, McGinity - whose Cork great-grandfather was either Eugene or Frank Hurley - says the Societys aim is to demonstrate that the reality of early Irish immigrants proved far more complex than the prevailing stereotype of drunken, illiterate brawlers.

As the fourth generation son of a Cork immigrant, McGinity bristles at phrases like the luck of the Irish, believing it could only have been coined by the English.

Its their way of saying that the Irish couldnt do it their own way - that they needed luck, he writes.

Another successful immigrant to California, John Mackay, had a huge impact on the development of the American West, particularly San Francisco and Virginia City.

Born in Dublin in 1831, he moved with his family to the Five Points neighbourhood, a slum in New York, when the famine was raging.

After hearing incredible stories of big discoveries of gold in California and Nevada, he migrated there in 1851 and was part of major discovery of gold. Mackay would rise to become one of the most formidable and richest people of the U.S west.

When he died died in 1902, his fortune was estimated to be as high as $40 billion.

The draft riots in New York in 1863 are also recalled.

The Irish, rebelling against conscription into the Union army, targeted an even more outcast group - blacks, mostly refugees from southern slavery, whom immigrants viewed as competition for low wage jobs. The convulsion left 119 dead and thousands injured.

Another excerpt tells the story of a group of immigrant soldiers, mostly Irish, who deserted from the U.S. Army in 1846 because of religious and ethic persecution and to seek a better life. There is a plaque commemorating them in Mexico City.

The American Irish Experience is on Amazon for $14.99, eBook $6.99.
A VIEW of sweet Youghal Bay and a walk on the beautiful boardwalk always makes for a memorable visit to the East Cork town.

We love welcoming people, says local Cork County Councillor Mary Linehen Foley. Youghal has so much going for it, the people have fierce pride in their town.

However, with more than 100 empty business premises in Youghal, a group of community activists have got together and requested that a small niche of museums be created on Main Street to attract more people.

It is a sad reality but also a real opportunity, says Chairman of Youghal Heritage, Bryan Mohally, of the vacant premises.

Ive lived here for 40 years and the fact that a lot of premises have fallen into decay and shops have closed on Main Street bugs me. Main Street looks sad now.

But thats all about to change, as enthusiastic community volunteers prepare to open the doors of the first of the historical museums - Youghal Film and Photography Museum - in what used to be a butchers shop.

People can come here and dive into the rich tapestry of Youghals film and photography heritage, says Michael Hussey, graduate of the BA in Film & Screen Media UCC.

Here, every image tells a story, and every frame preserves a piece of history.

We are almost ready to invite people to explore the fascinating world of early Irish film and photography right here in the town known as the cradle of Irish cinema.

Michael is excited to be involved in the promotion of the town he loves.

Our museum will be a treasure trove of cinematic and photographic wonders, featuring iconic artifacts such as the famous Youghal Clock Gate, which is one of the earliest animations made in Ireland, by the pioneering Horgan brothers.

These brothers from Youghal, Jim, Tom, and Phil, were the first filmmakers in Ireland.

The Horgan brothers left an indelible mark on Youghals cultural landscape, says Michael.

Now their archive of film and photography will find its rightful place within our museums walls.

The Horgans were innovators, producing the first animation films, says Ted Horgan, Jims grandson, who is busy cleaning, sorting, and arranging his ancestors works.

When filmmaking was in its infancy, Jim Horgan bought the towns first camera and he began to record everyday life in the area, says Ted.

The Horgan brothers ran magic lantern shows in Youghal and now people can go back in time and enjoy the rich history of Youghals life and times. I feel very proud.

Other early film and photography works will be on display at the Youghal Film and Photography Museum.

Our museum will also house an extensive collection from the Andy Kelly Archive, showcasing the towns vibrant visual history through the lens of a dedicated local enthusiast, says Michael. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to explore early cameras and film-related memorabilia from the Patrick McCool Collection, the Bobby Bickerdike Collection, the Mickey Roche Collection, the Billy Matthes Collection, the Owens Collection and many more local, national, and international collections.

Now that Youghal is her second home, community volunteer Maureen Gilchrist, from North Carolina, is rolling up her sleeves and getting stuck in to get the premises ready for the grand opening.

I love Youghal, says Maureen. My great grandparents, Mary and Jeremiah Kelly, were from here.

The heritage group needed help and Im only delighted to help out here along with the others.

Michael says Maureen swept into Youghal and into a new chapter of history.

Weve got a dynamo from across the pond! says Michael laughing. Hailing all the way from the charming state of North Carolina.

Maureen was on a mission.

She landed into our town with a mission to sweep away the cobwebs and breathe new life into the soon-to-be Youghal Film And Photographic Museum on North Main Street, says Michael.

With a determined glint in her eye, Maureen is taking on the noble task of clearing out remnants of the past, making room for the treasures that will soon grace the museums interior.

Maureen is a key player in turning this space into a central hub that will not only showcase the vibrant history of Youghal, but also bring back some much-needed footfall back to North Main Street, adds Michael.

The Kathleen & May experience will also attract visitors to Main Street, Youghal, as will the Moby Dick Experience, celebrating Youghals maritime history.

The Kathleen & May is the only remaining three-masted wooden topsail schooner, and her history describes her second maiden voyage to Youghal, says Michael.

The story evokes passion in the people who have worked on her - as the original sailing crew or modern- day restoration crew.

It is also a personal journey into the past and an exploration of a way of life now long gone which this unique boat represents.

Whats happening at the gossip shop?

Michael laughs.

At the other end of town, the electrical radio repair shop was fondly known as the gossip shop! Now it is to be the Youghal Lace Museum.

Kays Flowers is often known as the Tourist Information shop.

Im often asked for directions by people passing by, says Kay, who is a volunteer getting the Youghal Lace Museum ready for opening.

Youghal Lace has its roots in the 19th century. In 1845, Mary Anne Smith, a Presentation sister, unpicked Italian lace to discover techniques used to make it, and she then taught the craft to local women.

The Lace Museum next to me at 135, Main Street, will be a wonderful addition to the town of Youghal, says Kay.

The owners of the premises who do air b&b have been more than generous giving us the front of the premises for the lace museum.

What will be on display there?

We have old thimbles, old sewing boxes, the first lace umbrella that was crocheted. We have threads, dress pieces that we were gifted from the USA. Some items are on loan to us, others have been gifted to us.

Kays people were lace makers.

My mother helped my great aunt Kate with making things for lace, says Kay. I have an old sea-shell that has worn over time that my mother used to use for flattening the cuffs of judges attire. My mother used to steep the lace in tea to give it an antique colour.

Kay is excited about the premises opening next door.

The Youghal Lace Museum opening later this year is a wonderful project, she says. It is a huge part of Youghals history.

Youghal, with so much history, has lots to offer.

These are but a few of the museums we have in mind, says Bryan.

Were looking at Walter Raleigh and Youghal Carpets as well.

From little acorns, oak trees grow.

The regeneration of the town is very important to us, says Bryan. Youghal should be our Kinsale. We pride ourselves on our town.

Going forward, we hope to open cafes and souvenir shops in the museums. We are very fortunate to have many interested people on board, including Youghal Active Retirement Association (YARA).

We reached out to many schools and community groups, including Youghal Creative Writers Group, who wrote about their experiences of going to the cinema in Youghal.

The massive community effort is bearing fruit to put Youghal firmly on the map.

We have to pull up our own bootstraps, says Bryan. It is a combined community effort. Everybody, young and old, rolled up their sleeves to provide their skills and manpower.

Bryan is proud of his surroundings where he made his home 40 years ago.

Were not west Cork, we are part of the Ancient east - we want to fit in there, he says.

The journey begins.

Join us on this exciting journey as we celebrate the magic of film and photography, honour the pioneers who paved the way, and invite you to be part of Youghals enduring legacy in visual story-telling.

The Department of Film and Screen Media at UCC are associated with the project opening this summer.
BETWEEN 144,000 and 282,000 new dwellings are expected to be required in Cork by 2050, according to a report prepared by the Housing Commission.

The Housing Commission has estimated that, as of the 2022 Census, there was a housing deficit of between 212,500 and 256,000 homes in Ireland.

Cork makes up 11.3% of Irelands total population according to the same Census, so population adjustment would mean Cork was short between 24,000 and 29,000 homes.

And the problem is set to get worse, as the report suggests that Cork city, along with Limerick, Galway, and Waterford cities, is intended to grow by over 50% by 2040  more than double the rate of Dublin.

An analysis of projected regional population distributions in 2050 and associated housing requirements under two different scenarios suggests just how many new dwellings are required under two scenarios.

In Cork city, where there were 83,000 dwellings as of 2022, an additional 31,000 will be required by 2050 under Scenario A, and 89,000 under Scenario B, which predicts a larger population and a higher urbanisation.

In Cork county, 128,000 dwellings in 2022 would need to increase by 113,000 under Scenario A and 193,000 under Scenario B, meaning that a total of between 144,000 and 282,000 additional dwellings are required to be built in the 28-year period between 2022 and 2050.

'CHRONIC UNDERSUPPLY'

The report states the current experience in Ireland is one of chronic undersupply, and that current housing delivery is far below ongoing housing requirements.

Examining affordable housing, the commission stated the continued and enhanced role of local authorities as housing authorities is vital in ensuring an effective and sustainable housing system in Ireland. Cork city had the second-highest number of social housing dwellings owned by local authorities at just over 10,000, lower than Dublin city but higher than the two other Dublin constituencies and constituencies elsewhere in the country.

In Cork county, there are around 75,000 social housing dwellings owned by local authorities, the fourth highest amount out of the 31 local authorities.

Between 2011 and 2020, annual social housing output as a percentage of need was lowest in the operational areas of almost all the main urban local authorities, including Cork City and Cork County.

The social housing output as a percentage of need was just over 4% in Cork city and just below 6% in Co Cork, considerably below counties such as Carlow, Kilkenny, Monaghan and Sligo which all had about 10% output.

Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central Thomas Gould told The Echo that the report was a shocking indictment of the Governments failure.

Social housing levels in Cork city didnt even get to 5% of what was needed, he said, explaining that families with children are spending 10 years waiting for a house, and by then their childhoods are gone.
A 52-year-old man who joined others drinking Beamish from a stolen keg at a park bench in the centre of Cork city was given a four-month suspended sentence.

And his drunkenness on the same occasion has cost him 125.

That was the fine imposed on Aidan Roche of 131 Rathcarrig, Fermoy, County Cork, who was also given the total suspended jail term of four months for handling stolen property and giving gardai a false name.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said Aidan Roche was found drinking a paper cup of stout that had been dispensed from stolen keg of Beamish beside him.

The incident happened on November 3 2023 at Bishop Lucey Park.

The keg had been stolen from Ziggys Bar on Tuckey Street, Cork, earlier in the morning.

Joseph Cuddigan, solicitor, said there was no suggestion that the accused stole the keg.

My client came late to the party. Others were involved in taking it  he was not. Unfortunately, the prospect of this alcohol being available was a temptation he could not resist. He joined the people who were the prime movers in taking this keg from the licensed premises. He remains an alcoholic but is a dry one for the time being.

Judge Dorgan said it was really good to hear how well Mr Roche was doing at the moment in staying off alcohol.
THE Baltimore Wooden Boat Festival will be held this weekend, starting today and continuing until Sunday.

This area has a long history of engagement with trans-Atlantic sailing ships, with Eastern-bound ships picking up a pilot off Oilean Chleire to guide them into European waters.

Generations of Chleire pilots had detailed knowledge of ports from the Mediterranean to the North Sea, said Mary Jordan of the organising committee.

The festival will re-enact the rowing out of a pilot from the harbour to a vessel under sail by Sherkin, the pilot has to jump on board and be sailed back to the harbour.

While this is a fun event, it can get very competitive.

Traditional boats will dominate at the Baltimore Boat Festival. Image Tom MacSweeney

The iconic Saoirse will be the committee boat.

The original Saoirse was built in Baltimore in 1923, and was the first yacht to sail around the world, with the new Irish flag, skippered by Conor OBrien.

This years festival will celebrate the locally famous 39ft ketch, the Richard, the first boat built by Paddy Hegarty in Old Court in 1948, whose sons and grandson continue this tradition of building heritage vessels.

The maritime historian, Cormac Levis of Ballydehob, will deliver a talk on the Richard at the opening, tonight at 8pm, in Baltimore Sailing Club.

The rowing race from Skibbereen to Baltimore cannot be held this year as the tide is not suited for rowing down the River Ilen.

Instead, a new event for small boats will be orienteering on the water, with boats hunting for designated rocks, headlands, and landmarks.

The festival gives an glimpse of the richness of maritime heritage and the wealth of traditional sailing and construction skills thriving in West Cork.

Among the many visiting vessels including the Shannon and Bristol Pilot Cutters, the festival will welcome two Bantry long boats who will be sailing/rowing together, the Unite from Bantry, and Fionnbarra from Cork. Both are replicas of the French Long Boats that came into Bantry Bay in 1798 to assist Wolfe Tone.

It has one of the widest variety of traditional vessels in Ireland, from rowing currachs and punts to sailing Heir Island and Long Island fishing boats to large ocean-going vessels.

A seafood festival will also take place in the village, which will also host live music and food stalls.

For more details, visit baltimorewoodenboatfestival.com/.
A group of children from Cork has gone viral with their song 'The Spark', which has some people calling it the song of the summer.

It was released on May 16th in anticipation of Europes only national free day of creativity for young people, Cruinniu na nOg (Gathering of Youth).

The initiative from Creative Ireland and supported by RTE, includes events for children and young people across the island.

Since the song's release, it has amassed 8.8 million views on X and has been liked 26,000 times.

 I searched for my spark and I found it 



Cruinniu na nOg, Europes only national free day of creativity for young people is back, with over 1,000 free activities, taking place on Saturday, June 15. #CruinniuNaNog - an initiative of @creativeirl, supported by @rte pic.twitter.com/jTejJdfeIF  RTE (@rte) May 16, 2024

A group of over 30 children appear in the music video who are from Knocknaheeny as well as children living in refugee accommodation in Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare.

They joined forces to create the song with the help of youth rap project Rhyme Island at Kabin Studio in Cork. The song was produced by Garry McCarthy (GMCBeats).

It opens with the line: 'Think you can stop what we do? I doubt it. We got the energy. We'll tell you all about it."

As the title suggests, the children talk about finding that creative spark and encouraging people to chase their dreams.

It has since been covered by the BBC and The Guardian.

People online have praised the song's "youthful optimism and energy" and some are calling for the song to be released on Spotify.

Garry McCarthy, creative director of the Kabin Studio, recently interviewed on BBC Radio 4's The World Tonight, said: "It's amazing to see the recognition that it's getting internationally, just for something really positive.

"I think it's the reaction from adults which is amazing. They're looking at this and they're like, this is just pure fun."

Many are already calling it the song of the summer, but you can decide for yourself by watching the video down below.
THE daughter of GAA broadcaster Paudie Palmer is taking part in a fundraiser in memory of her father who passed away following a collision just 500 metres from their family home.

The father of two who taught for 40 years at St Brogans College in Bandon and was a columnist for The Echo newspaper and commentated on GAA for Cork radio stations was hospitalised in the aftermath of the crash but later passed away at Cork University Hospital (CUH).

Earlier this month, a 35-year-old man was found guilty of dangerous driving causing his death and was jailed for six years.

Mr Palmers daughter Claire has set up a GoFundMe page in a bid to raise funds for the hospital that she said made a real impact on her father and their whole family.

Ms Palmer said that she and some work colleagues at Blackrock Dental in Dublin wanted to take part in this years Hell and Back challenge on June 8 and that her boss and his wife suggested raising some money in memory of her father Paudie.

Speaking to The Echo about her fundraising efforts, she said: Ever since dads passing, I always wanted to do something for him but I just didn't know in what way and so when work suggested this to me I thought this is perfect.

"It's a bit of fun but there's work involved in an eight-kilometre obstacle course, but we'll have fun doing it.

Speaking about why she chose to fundraise for CUH and for the Dunmanway Day Unit, ICU and A&E departments specifically, she said: When dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma back in 2019, he had a stem cell transplant but prior to that he was getting his chemo treatments in the Dunmanway Day Unit at Cork University Hospital.

He would bring them gifts at Easter and at Christmas time because he was just really grateful for what they had done for him and it can be a daunting place to go at the best of times but he had the craic with the nurses and time went by in no time.

Then, fast forward to the accident and the A&E department and where he was then afterwards in the ICU - they just did absolutely fantastic work.

People don't know how much work they do behind the scenes until you're actually thrown into the situation, be it yourself or family. They're not just caring for the patient, they're caring for the patient's family.

Its about trying to give the patient the best care of which they do but it's also giving the family their time and dedication and feeling that their questions are being answered and their feelings are heard.

Ms Palmer said she hopes that any extra money will help the hospital to fund essential equipment which will in turn help more families.

Our experience wont be able to help anyone else's because everyones experience as to why they are in ICU or A&E is completely different but if Im able to raise funds to help the newest technology be provided for these departments, even a fraction of what something might cost and have it go towards it, then I know Im doing my best.

Ms Palmer gave special thanks to her work colleagues at Blackrock Dental for their support over the last 18 months which she said has been invaluable, especially being so far away from family.

To donate to the dedicated GoFundMe page, visit www.gofundme.com/f/cork-university-hospital.
Sitting councillors and those aspiring to be elected for the first time will have an added incentive as they face into the June 7 election, as they are being granted their third pay increase in less than a year  just a week before polling day.

And for those councillors standing down before the election, or those who fail to retain their seats, they are in line for a golden parachute  as long as they have served a minimum of two years as an elected member. For those who have 20 years of service, this amounts to 86,172.

According to a memo sent to the chief executive of Cork County Council, along with other local authorities, from the Department of Housing and Local Government, councillors will get a pay increase from 29,572 per year to 29,978.

On January 1, it was increased from 28,724  the rate which had been in force since October 1, 2023.

These pay increases are happening in rapid succession as the pay of councillors is set at the level of an assistant staff officer grade 4 since May 2021 and their pay, along with other public servants, has been increasing under the Public Service Agreement (Building Momentum  A New Public Service Agreement 2021-23).

Significant

Its a significant hike, however, from the salary payable to councillors who were elected in 2019 as, back then, they were entitled to a representational salary of 17,282.

This was increased to 27,109 following a report by senior counsel Sara Moorhead, which was published in 2020.

That report recommended that the salary type payments councillors currently receive should be consolidated into a single salary payment, with a statutory link to an appropriate local authority employee grade (assistant staff officer grade 4) that provides a level of remuneration that is consistent with the role of councillors in the local Government sector, the responsibilities placed upon them, and the part-time nature of the role.

The reports author also suggested in the foreword that what was being proposed was radical, as it also came with a recommendation to reduce the entitlement to unvouched expenses quite significantly.

24/7 role

Mayor of County Cork Frank OFlynn told The Echo that the role was anything but part-time.

Its a 24/7 role  even on Christmas Day I took three calls, he said.

We pay tax and PRSI like everyone else. Councillors who are doing their job are putting in twice the number of hours of a full-time job, Id say.

For the 10 councillors who are standing down from Cork County Council, and for elected members choosing not to stand for election for other authorities, they will be entitled to an increased gratuity payment which becomes payable a week after polling day on June 14.

Following a memo in November from the then minister of state for local Government, Kieran ODonnell, the payment is a calculation based on 15% of the annual salary then 28,724, per year of service up to a maximum of 20 years.

In the case of a councillor who was retiring after 20 years, this amounts to a gratuity payment upon retirement or failure to be re-elected of 86,172.
THE Health and Safety Authority (HSA) launched a national farm safety campaign earlier in May and are inspecting farms nationwide to focus and raise awareness on the safe use of tractors and other machinery and vehicles on the farm.

Most farmers are facing very serious challenges as a result of recent poor weather. Soft ground conditions in many areas have made the safe use of machinery even more vital. There is a short window of time before the busiest harvesting period begins and it is during this window that farmers need to address any maintenance or servicing issues with their machinery and prepare for silage harvesting.

Pat Griffin, Senior Inspector with the Health and Safety Authority, said; We remind farmers of the need to plan ahead for the safe use of tractors and machinery during the busy silage harvesting season.

Farmers must also ensure that all workers and contractors involved in silage harvesting have the necessary training and competence to do the job safely. Prevention is always the best policy when it comes to farm safety.

The condition of the machinery to be used is critical, and the HSA are reminding farmers that any maintenance issues should be addressed now, well in advance of use, particularly in relation to hitching,

steering and braking systems. Given the extent of blind spots from tractors, loaders and other large harvesting machinery often involved in fatal incidents, the farmyard must be designated as a no-go area for pedestrians while large machinery is operating.

Farm machinery and vehicles including tractors, teleporters, loaders and quad bikes (ATVs), continue to be the leading cause of fatalities on Irish farms accounting for 51% of all farm fatalities over the last 10 years (2014  2023), with farmers over 65 and children at greatest risk.

Recent HSA reports show over these last 10 years, there were 96 machinery and vehicle related fatalities on Irish farms, and of these 96 fatalities, 44 involved tractors, 10 involved loaders or teleporters and 10 involved quad bikes (ATVs). In the same 10-year period, vehicles were involved in over a third (38%) of fatalities to persons aged 65 years or over (36 deaths). HSA figures also show that vehicles and machinery were involved in 94% of child deaths on farms (16 deaths), i.e. persons under 18 years, over the same period.

The majority of injuries and fatalities with tractors, loaders, ATVs or other farm machinery involve a combination of operator error, poor maintenance and a lack of training, combined with the presence of children/elderly near the work activity.

Here are the key considerations for farmers this silage harvesting season;

Has the work activity been risk assessed and planned in advance?

Have all drivers or operators received adequate instruction and training?

Are excessive working hours and fatigue managed?

Are brakes, handbrakes or parking brakes working properly?

Are cabs and doors in good condition?

Are tractor mirrors clean, in good condition and set correctly?

Do all operators of vehicles have the correct personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Has the farmyard and silage pit area been designated as a no-go area for pedestrians while machinery is operating?

Is work organised to avoid the presence of young children or other vulnerable individuals such as elderly family members?

Pat Griffin added, We are asking all farmers and contractors to complete the dedicated Harvesting Checklist found in the current Farm Risk Assessment document to help identify any necessary improvements.

Serious injuries or deaths can be prevented if farmers carry out this risk assessment, plan their work well in advance, ensure basic precautions are taken and remember to keep people and vehicles separate to ensure safety.

Another key area of concern during this busy time for farmers is fatigue. The HSA have recently published a useful guide for farmers on how best to manage farm work and fatigue to reduce safety and health risks. See Guidance on Managing Fatigue with Farm Work.

The HSA has lots of free supports available to farmers on www.hsa.ie/farmsafety.

There are also free risk assessment online tools at www.farmsafely.com and a dedicated Harvesting Checklist risk assessment as part of the Farm Risk Assessment document that can be downloaded from the HSA website at this link.
Cillian Sherlock, PA

Israels reprimand of Irelands ambassador was totally unacceptable, Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said.

He made the remarks after Ambassador Sonya McGuinness was summoned to the Israeli foreign affairs ministry and reprimanded over Irelands decision to recognise the State of Palestine.

As proceedings started, Ms McGuinness was shown footage of Hamas that Israel claimed was filmed on October 7th.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: I find that totally unacceptable and no way to treat diplomats, and is outside the norm by which diplomats are treated in any country.

On Wednesday, Ireland announced its recognition of the State of Palestine in a joint move with Norway and Spain.

The decision is to formally take effect in the three countries on Tuesday.

In response, Israel warned there would be severe consequences.

The Israeli foreign affairs minister, Israel Katz, claimed Ireland and Taoiseach Simon Harris had rewarded terrorism.

He said the Irish, Norwegian and Spanish ambassadors would be shown the footage as part of a severe demarche.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: Diplomatic channels are very important in terms of maintaining contact with people explaining governments respective positions.

Sonya McGuinness is an outstanding ambassador and we have consistently condemned the Hamas attack on October 7th.

Israeli media outlets were also filming the meeting, Mr Martin said.

He added that officials had anticipated that Ms McGuinness would be called to the foreign ministry but said showing her the footage in front of Israeli national media was something they had not witnessed before in other countries or jurisdictions.

Mr Martin added: Most people would accept internationally that thats not within the parameters of acceptable norms in terms of how people engage with diplomats.

I will communicate directly to, in writing if necessary, to the Israeli foreign minister because our speeches on recognition of Palestine were balanced.

In terms of my own contribution, it was very clear in terms of our rejection of any mono-ethnic approach to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Since Wednesday, Israeli officials have repeatedly criticised Irelands decision to recognise Palestinian statehood.

Mr Katz accused the Irish government of awarding a gold medal to Hamas.

Ireland, if your goal was to reward terrorism by declaring support for a Palestinian state, youve achieved it.@SimonHarrisTD, Hamas thanks you for your service. pic.twitter.com/mgz7ZGtnCi    Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) May 23, 2024

Mr Harris rejected the characterisation of the move and accused Israel of misrepresenting the views of Ireland.

On Thursday, he said: Any foreign ministry can call in any ambassador but what I will not tolerate is any country misrepresenting the position of the Irish people.

I am the leader of the Irish Government, I speak on behalf of Ireland, and we have been clear and unequivocal that we condemn Hamas, that we condemn the most horrific, barbaric massacre that Israel experienced on the seventh of October.

We call for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages.

But it is entirely possible to say what I have just said and also say the next bit  which sadly some refuse to say  that what is happening in Palestine, what is happening in Gaza, is a humanitarian catastrophe.
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.

An oil pipeline stretches across the landscape outside Prudhoe Bay in North Slope Borough, Alaska on May 25, 2019. Bonnie Jo Mount / The Washington Post via Getty Images

Eight young people from Alaska are suing their state government, claiming a major new North Slope natural gas project is in violation of their constitutional rights.

The plaintiffs  who range in age from 11 to 22  allege that a law mandating development of the Alaska Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Project infringes on the protection of their health and livelihood from the release of dangerous greenhouse gases, reported Reuters.

Alaskas youth are on the front lines of the climate crisis, and their futures depend on a swift transition away from fossil fuel, said Andrew Welle, an attorney with Our Childrens Trust, a nonprofit law firm representing the plaintiffs, as Reuters reported.

Recently, two climate change lawsuits brought by youth in Alaska were dismissed. In the most recent  dismissed in 2022  the state supreme court said courts were not able to order sweeping policy changes.

The current youth plaintiffs said their suit complies with earlier rulings of the court, however, since it focuses on an individual project, rather than challenging broad state fossil fuel policies.

The Alaska LNG Project would involve constructing a treatment plant for natural gas on Alaskas North Slope, reported The Guardian. A liquefaction plant on the pristine Kenai Peninsula and an 800-mile pipeline stretching across the state would also be built.

The lawsuit said the $38.7 billion project, proposed by the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation, would triple greenhouse gas emissions for the state for decades to come.

[Y]outh plaintiffs are uniquely vulnerable to and disproportionately injured by the climate harms that would result from the Alaska LNG Project, the lawsuit said, as The Guardian reported.

The pipeline would bisect Alaska, carrying billions of cubic feet of gas daily from the North Slope through local communities, reported Reuters.

The youth plaintiffs said they are already experiencing breathing issues caused by smoke from climate change-fueled wildfires, as well as other harms such as a diminished ability to subsistence fish and hunt.

They argued that the Alaska LNG project would exacerbate climate change and asked the court to declare the state law mandating its development unconstitutional and stop it from proceeding.

The young Alaskans also requested a declaration that the state constitution include a right to a climate system that is life-sustaining. Alaska is the fastest-warming state in the country.

[The Alaska LNG project] would drastically increase Alaskas emissions at a time when climatologists are telling us that they need to be rapidly reduced in order to protect the health and safety of young people, Welle said, as the Anchorage Daily News reported.
A 2022 report from the International Panel on Climate Change observed that more than 3.3 billion people around the world are highly vulnerable to climate change. And more than one billion people could be exposed to coastal-specific climate hazards by 2050.

Here in the U.S., the Census Bureau calculated that 3.2 million adults were displaced or evacuated due to natural disasters of all kinds in 2022. And while climate migration is not easily measurable, as there are multiple factors involved, it is no doubt happening.

Investigative reporter at Politico Abrahm Lustgarten delved into the topic of U.S. climate migration in his new book, On The Move: The Overheating Earth and the Uprooting of America. Seeking to understand what climate migration might look like over the next few decades, Lustgarten used data and reporting from places across the country such as New York City, California, Arizona, Chicago, Texas and the Gulf Coast, the Isle de Jean Charles in Louisiana, and from abroad in places like Guatemala and Africa.

Dense with facts and using modeling from Rhodium Group, a climate and economics research provider, to try and predict future migration patterns in the U.S., Lustgarten concludes that climate change migration depends on what happens next in the world of carbon reduction, politics and several other factors, resulting in a book analyzing a portrait of American society transformed.

Here are excerpts from a recent interview with Lustgarten.

Abrahm Lustagarten author photo by Seth Smoot

What are the most pressing short-term environmental threats that you write about?

Wildfires, coastal flooding, increasing heat, drought and water scarcity. I also collected some associated data on diminishing crop yields, change in wet bulb temperatures across the country and the economic implications of all of those things.

How was 2020 the tipping point, as you called it?

Instead of it being a sort of a scary far off in-the-distant-future idea, 2020 was a year where we were reading about smoke or hurricanes or flooding every day. Just a moment where the country seemed to grasp what were coping with.

What did your reporting tell you about who was going where?

The broad thesis of the book is that we will see a future projection of a movement of population from the South and the most extreme areas affected by both heat and sea level rise towards the North, which according to the specific risks that I mapped is the least affected part of the United States. We see current migration thats sort of unmeasurable coming out of those high-risk areas already. People leaving Florida, people leaving the Gulf Coast, people leaving wildfires in California, anecdotally leaving heat in the Southwest, but its very difficult to measure.

Some of the things you write about are the economics of this migration. Tell me generally how disruptive itll be.

People move in response to the climate in slow steps and they go the shortest distance possible. Its more likely that the rural places around them in those states kind of empty out over time because people will seek the support of those urban environments, that urban tax base, the facilities, the school systems, all of the services that are available. I could imagine an American Southwestern Texas that becomes islands of large, relatively wealthy cities, even in a sea of a much emptier rural expanse.

The second way to answer that question is, whats the risk for places that are in decline? And this is a pessimistic scenario that universally all of the economists that I spoke with warn about, which is just what happens to a community that loses population for any reason. And its the same as what you see in the Rust Belt cities after the 1970s, what you see in post-boom coal towns and things like that. As some people leave, the businesses and the business community shrinks, storefronts might disappear, you have less revenue for the town, city, etc. That government can do less, which self-perpetuates this cycle, right? Your potholes dont get repaved, and your schools dont get fresh funding. More parents look at those schools and say, well, this sucks. And it is really hot here.

Do you think these kinds of economic impacts in certain areas might make people fully aware of the reality of climate breakdown?

I really think climate migration will happen in the United States, not because people say its too damn hot and I want to leave, or we think its going to flood and were going to move, but when it starts to affect peoples personal economic resilience. It ultimately will be economic-driven migration, which is catalyzed by climate change. Its inevitable that when those kinds of things happen in culturally conservative parts of southern Louisiana or east Texas, that those people are not going to be hitting the streets complaining about climate change, but theyre going to be saying, I cant insure my home any longer. I cant make a living any longer. Farming just doesnt work anymore, and weve got to move someplace where we can take care of our families and make ends meet. And a great example of that, of course, is the insurance blowback in Florida.

I wanted to ask you about wealthy people. Do wealthy people have a leg up in this whole situation? Theres been some land grabs up in Wyoming a little bit, and I think in Montana. Do you see that being magnified?

Wealthy people have an added layer of protection for all the obvious reasons. Interestingly, its actually kind of upper middle-class folks that are most likely to move, but wealthy people who might be the most protected because they have either the means to own properties in multiple places at once, or to move more spontaneously when they want to. Theres been a movement towards snatching up land in Wyoming or Montana, you know, or even in the Great Lakes  the data is very hard to pin with certainty to climate migration, but it appears to be part of the same kind of trend. Bill Gates is now the largest landholder in the United States, and hes been buying up thousands of acres in northern Michigan, for example.

Might there be a new era of climate-migration boom towns, like the gold rush?

A lot of that upper Midwest and, you know, along the Canadian border, is rural and quite remote now. What if those cities grew dramatically and became the transportation corridor between the thriving metropolis Pacific Northwest and the Great Lakes region? Thats a far-fetched scenario, but one thats possible. A place like Fargo  what the data says about Fargo is that its winters will be shorter and not as cold, and its summer seasons will be longer. And the data suggests that the crop yields in Fargo will likely increase while they decrease in other parts of the country. Fargo is the type of place that could see a relative improvement in its environment, a milder climate with probably increasing opportunity for agricultural activity. Which could lead to some kind of boom.

What might the abandoned places be like? Will any human ingenuity be able to make those places livable? Will it just be the very poor who will live there and cant escape to go anywhere else?

Its a dark question and a dark image, right? Theres a chapter in the book that looks as an example of this to a place called Ordway, Colorado. Its a farming community that was very prosperous, but as a result of losing its water over the past 20 years or so has experienced a spiral decline. The people left and the schools shrunk in size. Its an interesting sort of test case that shows us what the future might look like in other places that youre asking about. There are people that love living there and will remain there and find their homes and their land beautiful. But, you know, as a community, its hard to say that its thriving. The people that I talked to there feel very sad about what theyve lost and not particularly hopeful about the future of their community.

In places like Africa or Central America, in your reporting have you seen that a lot of people there are leaving because of climate migration?

My top line conclusion is I think were entering a new era of permanent, very high levels of global climate change migration all around the world. One very influential piece of research has looked at the human habitability niche around the world. And it models that about a third to one half of humanity will be displaced from this kind of ideal habitat in within the next 40 years. Were talking about two to three billion people on the planet as potential migrants.

I spoke with migrants in El Salvador who, you know, wanted to leave because theyre experiencing gang threats in the city of El Salvador, but wanted to go home to their hometown in the mountains, but couldnt because climate change had wiped out the coffee crop there. Climate change was rarely the primary driver but was always a present factor in these peoples decisions.
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.

A sea urchin next to a sea star and a clam on the seabed in Norway. Sakis Lazarides / iStock / Getty Images Plus

The Norway chapter of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Norway) is bringing a lawsuit against the Norwegian government for allowing mining of its seabed, claiming the country has not properly investigated the negative impacts.

WWF-Norway said the decision to proceed with deep-sea mining breaches Norwegian law and sets a dangerous precedent, a press release from WWF-Norway said.

We hoped the notice of a lawsuit would prompt the government to reconsider and withdraw its controversial decision. Unfortunately, WWF-Norway sees no other options but to proceed with legal action, said WWF-Norway CEO Karoline Andaur in the press release.

Last month, WWF-Norway announced that, if Norway did not change their decision to go ahead with deep-seabed mining  which the nonprofit said had no legal basis  it would take the country to court for its failure to comply with the minimum requirements of the Seabed Minerals Acts impact assessment.

WWF-Norway believes that the strategic impact assessment shows that the government does not have adequate knowledge about the marine environment in the deep sea to be able to assess the consequences of exploration and exploitation, either on the environment, other industries or the Norwegian economy. There are too many and too large knowledge gaps for the legal minimum standard of a strategic impact [assessment] to be met, the press release said.

In January 2024, Norway approved commercial deep-sea mining following a study commissioned by the government concluding it would have minimal impact, reported Reuters.

We believe that a thorough process has been carried out with broad involvement, and that the applicable requirements have been followed. I note that WWF wants to try the case in court, and they have the right to do so, said Astrid Bergmal, secretary of state to the Ministry of Energy, as The Guardian reported.

Norways proposal would expose 108,108.6 square miles of sensitive Arctic waters to deep-sea excavation  an area larger than Britain  despite warnings of its catastrophic consequences for marine ecosystems, reported The Guardian.

Deep-sea mining involves extracting minerals and metals from the seabed for use in the transition away from fossil fuels.

A Norwegian study last year said a substantial amount of minerals and metals could be found on the countrys seabed.

The European parliament expressed concern in February about Norways decision to open up parts of the Arctic seabed to mining and called for support of a moratorium.

More than two dozen countries have joined in asking for a pause, ban or moratorium on deep-sea mining, including Germany, France, Spain, Mexico, Palau and Sweden.

It is expected that the International Seabed Authority will meet to ratify regulations on deep-sea mining in international waters later this year.

We believe that the state is violating Norwegian law when they now open up for a new and potentially destructive industry without having sufficiently investigated the consequences, Andaur said, as Reuters reported.

A lawyer for WWF said a court hearing could start in the next six months.
(Photo: World Council of Churches)Participants pose for a group photo at the 51st meeting of the WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs. The meeting, which took place from June 9 to 16, marked the first WCC meeting in China since the global church body's foundation in 1948. The CCIA meeting was hosted by the China Council of Churches.

The World Council of Churches general secretary, Rev. Jerry Pillay, is visiting China from May 23 to 28.

According to the council, he will meet with the China Christian Council, member churches of the WCC, and interreligious partners.

In a brief statement, the WCC said Pillay will offer a greeting at St Paul's Church.

In addition, he will visit the Nanjing Union Theological Seminary, Yonghe Temple, the Chinese Islamic Association, the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association, and the Bishops Conference of the Catholic Church in China.

Religion in China is always a contentious issue, and religion has often been frowned upon during communist rule.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the Chinese government recognizes five official religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Protestantism, and Catholicism.

Regulations require religious organizations to register with the government.

Only religious groups belonging to one of the five state-sanctioned religious associations are permitted to register, and only these organizations may legally hold worship services.

In January 2018, the then-WCC general secretary, Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, and a WCC delegation visited churches in China.

That delegation visited Shanghai and met with the China Christian Council and the Three-Self Patriotic Movement, as well as with the leadership and students at the East China Theological Seminary.

They traveled to Xi'an and visited Shaanxi Bible School and Jing Xin Church.

In Beijing, Tveit preached in Chongwenmen Church on the theme "Jesus Christ, the joy of the World."

The WCC delegation also met with Chinese religious leaders and State Administration for Religious Affairs representatives.

Tveit said at the time, "This invitation to visit our member churches in China is highly appreciated and received with great joy widely in the WCC and the ecumenical family.

"As we begin the year of the WCC's 70th Anniversary in China, we show that the WCC is a living fellowship with a rich legacy now active and open for the calling of the ecumenical movement in the 21st century."

He noted: "China has the world's largest population and is a very significant partner in addressing the global challenges of our time. The church in China has a very significant role in shaping the Christian witness and service in our time, both in China and in the global fellowship."

The WCC's executive committee had visited China from Nov. 17-24, 2016.

That visit was hosted by the China Christian Council and the Three-Self Patriotic Movement.

It was the first meeting of a WCC governing body in China.

Since the 7th assembly of the WCC in Canberra in 1991, the China Christian Council has been a full member of the fellowship of the WCC.

The WCC noted that within three decades, China may be home to the largest Christian population in the world.
Alongside a new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, Microsoft has some big plans ahead for Arm-based Windows PCs.

Microsoft is leaning even more into AI after launching a new Copilot+ AI PC initiative earlier this year. It's a new set of standards for PCs with powerful neural processing units (NPUs), and it could be just as significant for Windows as Apple's move towards its M-series chips. In this episode, Cherlynn and Devindra discuss Copilot+ and the potential rise of Arm-based Windows systems, and we dive into the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop.

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!

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Topics

Microsoft announces a new chapter with Copilot+ and NPU-powered Surface Pro and Surface Laptop  0:51

Scarlett Johansson vs. OpenAI is just getting started  37:17

Sonos Ace headphones take aim at Apples AirPods Max  42:15

US Department of Justice makes its first arrest for AI-generated CSAM  45:50

Bloomberg Report: Humane AI seeks a buyer for $700m$1B, but will they get it?  47:21

Listener Mail: Could you port the new ARM-based Windows to your Android handheld?  51:42

Working on  53:11

Pop culture picks  54:19

Livestream

Credits

Hosts: Cherlynn Low and Devindra Hardawar

Producer: Ben Ellman

Music: Dale North and Terrence O'Brien

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OpenAI will not enforce any nondisparagement agreement former employees had signed and will remove the language from its exit paperwork altogether, the company told Bloomberg. Vox recently reported that OpenAI was making exiting employees choose between being able to speak against the company and to keep the vested equity they earned. Employees could lose millions if they choose not to sign the agreement or if they violate it. Sam Altman, OpenAI's CEO, said he was "embarrassed" and didn't know that the provision existed, promising to have the company's paperwork altered.

According to Bloomberg, the company notified former employees that "[r]egardless of whether [they] executed the agreement... OpenAI has not canceled, and will not cancel, any vested units." It released them from the agreement altogether, "unless the nondisparagement provision was mutual." At least one former employee said they had lost their vested equity that was equivalent to multiple times their family's net worth by refusing to sign when they left. It's unclear if they're getting it back with this change. The company also talked to current employees about this development, easing their worries that they will have to be careful with everything they say if they don't want to lose their stocks.

"We are sorry for the distress this has caused great people who have worked hard for us," Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon said in a statement. "We have been working to fix this as quickly as possible. We will work even harder to be better."

This wasn't the only controversial situation OpenAI has been involved in as of late. The company recently revealed that it was disbanding the team it formed last year to help make sure humanity is protected from future AI systems, which could be so powerful they could cause our extinction. Before that, OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, who was one of the team's leads, left the company. Another team lead, Jan Leike, said in a series of tweets that "safety culture and processes have taken a backseat to shiny products" within OpenAI. In addition, Scarlett Johansson accused OpenAI of copying her voice without permission for ChatGPT's Sky voice assistant after she turned down Altman's request to lend her voice to the company. OpenAI denied that it copied the actor's voice and said that it hired another actor way before Altman contacted Johansson.
Russia has reportedly found new, more effective ways to knock out Ukraines Starlink service. The New York Times said on Friday that the increased interference has disrupted communications at critical moments and is posing a major threat to Ukraine, putting the country further on its heels more than two years into the war. How Russia is jamming Elon Musks satellite internet terminals is unclear.

The New York Times said Russias ability to jam communications has thrown off Ukraines ability to communicate, gather intelligence and conduct drone strikes. Ukrainian soldiers told the paper that jammed Starlink service stunts their ability to communicate quickly, leaving them scrambling to send text messages (often extremely slowly) to share intel about incoming or ongoing Russian maneuvers or attacks.

The jamming was reportedly repeated across Ukraines northern front line, often coinciding with Russian advances. The new outages are the first time Russia has jammed Starlink reception that widely and frequently. If it continues, it could mark a tactical shift in the conflict, highlighting Ukraines dependence on SpaceXs internet technology. Without competing choices of similar quality, Volodymyr Zelenskyys democratic nation is left without many options that could work at the scale Ukraine needs.

Russia has tried to disrupt Ukraines comms since the war began, but Starlink service has reportedly held up well in the face of them. Something has changed. Ukraines digital minister, Mykhailo Federov, told The New York Times this week that Russias recent jamming appeared to use new and more advanced technology.

Federov told The NYT that Vladimir Putins army is now testing different mechanisms to disrupt the quality of Starlink connections because its so important for us. The digital minister didnt specify the exact weapons Russia has been using, but a Russian official in charge of the countrys electronic warfare told state media last month that its military put Starlink on a list of targets and that it had developed ways to disrupt the service.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Armed Forces of Ukraine)

The disruptions highlight the power that one mercurial billionaire can have over the pivotal Eastern European war. Ukrainian officials have reportedly appealed directly to Mr. Musk to turn on Starlink access during military operations ahead of crucial drone strikes, and he hasnt always obliged.

The Wall Street Journal reported in February that concern has grown that Musk could harbor at least some degree of Russian sympathies. He has posted comments on X that could be viewed as taking a pro-Russian stance, and disinformation experts worry that the way he runs the social platform could be friendly to Russian interference in the pivotal 2024 elections, including those in the US.

Musk spoke out earlier this year against the US sending more aid to Ukraine. Putins army also reportedly began using its own Starlink service, although Musk says he wasnt aware of the terminals being sold to the Slavic nation. Ukrainian officials raised concerns earlier this year that Russia was buying Starlink tech from third-party vendors.

However, the Pentagon said earlier this month that the US has been heavily involved in working with the government of Ukraine and SpaceX to counter Russian illicit use of Starlink terminals, and a departing space official described SpaceX as a very reliable partner in those operations.
The dog who inspired the famous meme coin Dogecoin has died, according to a post on Instagram by its owner . Kabosu, an adorable Shiba Inu, was likely around 18 years old, though owner Atsuko Sato doesnt know the exact birthdate of the rescue pup.

She quietly passed away as if asleep while I caressed her, she wrote in a blog post published by The Guardian . I think Kabo-chan was the happiest dog in the world. And I was the happiest owner.

The Japanese dog not only inspired Dogecoin, but the iconic 2010 photo became the source of a vast collection of internet memes. Some have even called Kabosu the Mona Lisa of the internet. Sato snapped the photo two years after rescuing the dog from a puppy farm, in which she would have likely been put down. The image shows Kabosu with her paws on the sofa while giving the camera, well, a sort of grin.

The Doge Meme dog, Kabosu has died.



She was 18 years old. pic.twitter.com/ScMhYn2kuF  Dexerto (@Dexerto) May 24, 2024

The photo became an NFT digital artwork that sold for $4 million, back when NFTs were a thing that people paid money for. As for the memecoin, it started as a joke by two software engineers but has now risen to be the eighth-most valuable cryptocurrency with a market capitalization of $23 billion. The price has ticked up today , likely by news of Kabosus passing.

Dogecoin was most famously backed by Elon Musk, even becoming available as currency to buy certain Tesla products . Other famous backers include Snoop Dogg, Gene Simmons and Mark Cuban, to name just a few.

Dogecoin has also inspired a bunch of other memecoins, from the spin-off Shiba Inu coin to cryptocurrency coins based on cats, Elon Musk and, sigh, even Donald Trump . These coins are known to be highly volatile, so invest at your own risk. Dogecoin, however, has remained mostly stable for a while now.

Musk has long-been the primary cheerleader behind Dogecoin, even changing the Twitter icon to the image of the Shiba Inu, before he pivoted to X. He also single-handily wiped out most of the coins value during his disastrous SNL performance and has been accused of using it to defraud investors and create a pyramid scheme .

have u guys seen the kabosu statue pic.twitter.com/J3Tmz8gbUh  the dog dot com V2.0  (@shibainucore) November 3, 2023

A statue of Kabosu was erected in Sakura, Japan in November of last year. Reporting indicates that it cost $100,000 to build. In the last few years Ive been able to connect the online version of Kabosu, all these unexpected things seen from a distance, with our real lives, Sato wrote. She has used the virality of her beloved Shiba inu to donate large sums to charities, including more than $1 million to Save the Children . Godspeed, you adorable pup.

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Melania Trump is rarely seen in public, prompting some to wonder where she is and resulting in various speculations about the former first lady's whereabouts.

Donald Trump has been facing the hush money trial against him for weeks sans his wife. They were last seen together at their son Barron's graduation. However, due to the ex-FLOTUS' rare public appearances, many began to ask: "Where is Melania?"

The question sparked discussions about Melania's whereabouts online. According to Mirror, wild conspiracy theories are attempting to explain her long absence, and they are as follows:

Melania is a Russian Spy

One of the most bizarre theories was the suggestion that Melania could be a Russian spy. This reportedly started after she was spotted chatting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at a dinner for the 2017 G-20 Summit.

Melania was born in Slovenia, which was part of communist Yugoslavia. She was raised there before she moved to New York in 1996 when she was 26.

Melania is replaced by a robot

For years, there had been rumors that the woman who sometimes appeared alongside the former president was a body double. This theory took it to another level by alleging that Melania was replaced by a robot.

"Melania Trump was replaced by a very lifelike robot 14 years ago the only giveaway from this remarkable machine is the cold, dead eyes," one netizen previously tweeted, per Mirror.

Another suggested that Melania "died on election night 2016 and was replaced by a Russian robot." A similar plot was featured in the premiere episode of the second season of the comedy series "Tracey Breaks the News."

In the clip, three staffers visited Melania, and one said they had to place a logic bypass chip on her to make her work better. After placing the chip, the staffer with glasses asked, "Melania-bot, what are immigrants?"

"Bad people," Melania replied.

"And what are you?" the staffer asked again. Melania replied, "An immigrant."





Melania Has a Body Double Another popular theory suggested that Melania might have a body double. The rumors started in October 2017 when she visited a Secret Service training center with her husband. There were allegations that she didn't want to attend events and travel with Trump, so the woman he was with in Maryland was allegedly a female Secret Service agent. Actress and comedian Andrea Wagner Barton fueled the rumors when she took to Facebook and shared several photos and a clip from the outing. She claimed that Trump's companion was not his wife, Melania, but a "decoy." "Will the real Melania please stand up? Is it me, or during his speech today, a decoy 'stood in' for Melania?? And....Why would the m***n say 'my wife, Melania, who happens to be right here...' Seriously, watch very closely! @prettyfunnymom," she wrote at the time.

Trump denied having Melania stand-ins with him on his outings when the issue resurfaced in 2019 following his visit to Alabama. The ex-POTUS even called those who believed the rumors "deranged."

"The Fake News photoshopped pictures of Melania then propelled conspiracy theories that it's actually not her by my side in Alabama and other places. They are only getting more deranged with time!" Trump wrote on X.
Filmmaker and star Morgan Spurlock of the jaw-dropping documentary 'Super Size Me' died Thursday in upstate New York.

He was 53.

Spurlock's family reported to 'NBC News' that he died on May 23 due to complications amid his battle with cancer. His brother Craig Spurlock  who worked alongside him for multiple projects  told the news outlet that it was hard to say goodbye.

"It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother Morgan," he began. "Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas, and generosity. The world has lost a true creative genius and a special man. I am so proud to have worked together with him."

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Spurlock's Oscar-nominated documentary was created in 2004 as a social experiment which focused on the journey of the star attempting to sustain himself by solely ingesting the McDonald's menu for an entire month.

As the film unfolds, the daredevil experiences weight gain, a massive energy crash, and a list of bizarre side-effects. According to Surplock, he "consumed over 30 pounds of sugar. That's an average of a pound of sugar a day."

Through the course of the documentary his liver turned to fat, cholesterol increased by 65 points, and libido had tanked, in addition to nearly doubling his risk for heart disease and being left with terrible mood swings, cravings, and massive headaches.

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At his own expense, Spurlock was on a mission to expose corporate giants for their contribution to the epidemic of obesity and prioritizing profits over the health of American consumers. It was reported that six weeks after the release of 'Super Size Me,' McDonald's discontinued the extra-large serving size option.

The filmmaker also produced other projects including the sequel, 'Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken!' (2020), 'Where In The World is Osama Bin Laden?' (2008), 'ComicCon IV: A Fans Hope' (2019), and more.

His family has confirmed that Spurlock died peacefully surrounded by family and friends. The director is survived by his two sons, Laken and Kallen, his parents, Phyllis and Ben, and brothers Craig and Barry.
BLOOMINGTON, Minn.  The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that $70 million will be invested across the nation in unplugging blockages from the nations rivers, including the Middle Great Miami River in Ohio.

Across the country, millions of dams and other barriers are fragmenting rivers, blocking fish migration and even putting communities at higher risk of flooding. Improving aquatic connectivity can be an effective way to help conserve vulnerable species while building safer infrastructure for communities, improving climate resilience, increasing recreational opportunities and strengthening local economies, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

For the Middle Great Miami River Restoration Project in Ohio, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will work with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and partners to remove two low dams, reconnect a more than a mile-long oxbow channel and create a bank to bank nature-like fishway riffle across a 12-foot-tall sheet pile dam that provides drinking water for the town of Piqua.

This proposal is part of a larger initiative to provide fish passage in the entire upper watershed of the Great Miami River and reconnect 80 stream miles for state and federal species of interest. The dam removal and fishway projects will eliminate barriers to fish passage, eliminate safety hazards, reduce flood risk and increase recreational opportunities.

The Midwest region will see $26 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In addition to the Middle Great Miami River Restoration Project, these funds will be distributed between projects across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Missouri. For more information, visit fws.gov/.
SALEM, Ohio  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice announced a more than $310 million settlement with Norfolk Southern on May 23 to pay for damage caused by a fiery train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio that spilled harmful chemicals into nearby streams

If the settlement is approved by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, Norfolk Southern will have to pay a fine, invest in long-term health monitoring and mental health services for surrounding communities and implement measures to protect local waterways and drinking water sources, among other things.

The settlement announcement came two days after an Ohio federal judge signed off on a $600 million settlement to be paid by Norfolk Southern to residents and businesses in East Palestine and surrounding communities.

No community should have to experience the trauma inflicted upon the residents of East Palestine, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said, in a statement Because of this settlement, residents and first responders will have greater access to health services, trains will be safer and waterways will be cleaner.

Settlement details

The DOJ settlement requires Norfolk Southern to pay $235 million for all past and future clean-up costs, to prevent the use of taxpayer dollars for the clean-up, and $25 million for a 20-year community health program that will entail medical monitoring and mental health services for residents of affected counties and first responders who were impacted by the Feb. 3, 2023 train derailment.

About 50 Norfolk Southern train cars derailed, 11 of which contained hazardous materials, just a few hundred feet from the Pennsylvania state line. Residents within a mile of the derailment site were ordered to evacuate.

Some of the derailed train cars ruptured, releasing chemicals and lube oil into nearby Sulphur Run Creek, which runs through the heart of East Palestine and connects with Leslie Run Creek. Both creeks are still impaired by the derailment spills, according to the EPA.

Norfolk Southern will also pay $15 million for alleged violations of the Clean Water Act, $15 million for long-term monitoring of ground and surface water for 10 years, $15 million that will finance the existing private drinking water well monitoring program for 10 years, $175,000 for natural resource damages and an estimated $6 million for a water remediation plan for projects in Sulphur Run and Leslie Creek.

Norfolk Southerns water remediation plan for the creeks will address the historical pollution, reduce non-point source pollution through infrastructure upgrades and stormwater management and re-establish aquatic and riparian habitat.

Safety upgrades.

The company will also adopt projects to improve the transportation of hazardous materials via railway, as part of the settlement.

This will include the installment of 200 more trackside detectors to spot overheating wheel bearings and investments in more than a dozen advanced inspection portals that use cameras to take hundreds of pictures of every passing railcar for detecting safety defects.

Importantly, those who will most directly benefit from this settlement are those who were most directly affected by the disaster. And the rail safety commitments will help prevent future catastrophic railway events, Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer said in a statement about the settlement.

Norfolk Southern will also reimburse the EPA $57 million for response costs made through Nov. 30, 2023, and onward.

Where did the $310 settlement begin?

The $310 million settlement is the result of a complaint filed in March 2023 by the United States against Norfolk Southern for the unlawful release of pollutants and hazardous substances during the train derailment.

In total, Norfolk Southern estimates it will spend more than $1.7 billion on cleanup efforts in East Palestine and rail safety improvements, which includes the $310 million settlement and $780 million in environmental response costs previously made by the company. Norfolk Southern also predicts costs for rail safety improvements will cost $244 million through 2025.

There will be a 30-day public comment period for the proposed DOJ settlement before it goes for final approval

Additionally, the National Transportation Safety Board will announce its final investigation findings on the cause of the derailment at a public hearing on June 25 at 9:30 p.m. at East Palestine High School.

U.S. Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost expressed disappointment over the DOJs settlement before the NTSB public hearing.

This federal settlement, reached prior to the completion of the NTSBs investigation, risks undercompensating the residents of East Palestine, Vance and Yost said, in a joint statement. The Department of Justice would have better served East Palestine and surrounding communities by negotiating against Norfolk Southern armed with all relevant facts surrounding the disaster  facts which can only be revealed by the NTSB.

Another settlement two days before

The $600 million lawsuit approved by an Ohio federal judge on May 21 resolved class action claims made by businesses located within 20 miles of the derailment that allege damage and financial loss. It will also reimburse residents who live within 10 miles of the derailment and filed personal injury lawsuits for health impacts.

Despite the settlement, residents are concerned the money wont be enough once its divided up. Lawyers could receive up to $162 million in legal fees out of the settlement if the judge approves.

The amount residents receive will be determined by how close they live to the derailment site and how much the derailment impacted them. The closer one lives, the more money they will most likely get.

The amount residents receive will also be dependent on how much assistance they have received from Norfolk Southern, which includes relocation aid. This amount will be deducted from the settlement residents get, which will be reinvested back into the settlement fund to be used for the community. Residents have until July 1 to opt out of the deal and file an individual lawsuit.

(Liz Partsch can be reached at epartsch@farmanddairy.com or 330-337-3419.)
Drier conditions have led to an increase in maincrop potato planting in the past month, with growers urged to consider the role biologicals could play in their 2024 nitrogen strategy.

Strong results last season showed how BlueN  Corteva Agriscience's foliar-applied biostimulant  provides a supplemental source of nitrogen for potato crops.

The nutrient efficiency optimiser product captures nitrogen from the air and converts it into ammonium.

BlueN provides the equivalent of around 30kg/ha of supplemental nitrogen in a season.

Depending on the crop and fertiliser strategy, Corteva says farmers can use it in addition to their existing programme or to replace nitrogen when optimising rates.

John Sellars, category marketing manager at firm, said the manufacturing of fertilisers was a hugely energy-consuming process.

"BlueN provides supplemental nitrogen to crops without the risk of leaching, increasing nitrogen use efficiency," he explained.

The bacteria in BlueN fixes nitrogen from the air via anenzymatic reaction meeting changing market expectations by being able to provide a sustainable source of nitrogen.

After field trials in the UK and across Europe, potato growers experienced their first full year using the biostimulant in 2023.

Cornish potato grower Andrew Thomas saw a 20% increase in yield after applying the product for the first time last year.

Andrew grows vegetables at his 24-hectare farm in St Hilary, Cornwall, and admits he wasnt sold on the idea of biological treatments initially.

After trailing a one-hectare block, he said he noticed a difference in the crop and decided to apply the product across more of the farm.

He sprayed some of his main crop of Mozart potatoes, applying BlueN at 333g/ha at the point when the crop was meeting down the rows.

I sprayed one field but I didnt spray the other because I ran out of time  I wish I had now, he said. We could see the difference in the size of the tubers, the quality and the yield.

Spring last year was quite cold and wet, so the potatoes were looking a bit stressed. After I applied BlueN I couldnt see much difference for a fortnight, but after that I could tell theyd picked up more nitrogen  I could see a difference in the foliage.

It increased yield by at least 20%, which equated to about 2.5t/ha. I have told many fellow growers about the experience I had because it exceeded all expectations.

The optimal time for application is between growth stages BBCH 25 to 33.

BlueN enters the plant through leaf stomata and moves throughout the plant to photosynthetic cells including the areas of new growth.

Once the bacteria have established in-between the cells, they start the nitrogen fixing cycle, delivering ammonium to the plant.

This means that as the crop grows, the bacteria continuously provide supplemental nitrogen to the plants.

The bacteria also have chromophores that reflect light towards chloroplasts, intensifying photosynthesis and increasing the synthesis of nutrients for use in plant growth.
Farmers who have identified an issue with paying below the minimum wage due to longer working hours could find solutions by thinking outside the box when it comes to staff.

This is according to agri recruitment agency REAL Success, which says a lot of farmers have realised they are now illegally paying below the minimum wage because staff are working long hours.

The firm explains that there are solutions to this problem, with one option for farmers to consider being hiring part-time local staff.

Farmers could employ more local staff who can cover one or two shifts a week, which allows the full-time staff to work for no more than five days before getting a couple of days off.

Weekends can often be a challenge to cover, but by getting local people to come and work the odd shift, maybe from outside of farming, then all farmers have to do is train them on the basics  they dont have to be as trained as everyone else.

Employers should also speak to their full-time staff to find out if they would like to change their shift patterns, according to Real Success.

Some people might value more time off, so ask them whether they would like to work fewer hours for less money," Paul Harris, CEO of the agency, explains.

"For example, instead of 10 days on with two days off for 32,000/year, give people the option of a few more days off for 30,000. Some people might take a lower salary with more time off.

One dairy farmer who has adopted this approach to staffing is Jack Elliott, of Hunshaw Farm, near Little Torrington in North Devon.

With 450 Holstein cows, he runs an intensive system, milking three times a day and calving all year round.

Most of his employees are on a salary, but to ensure hes paying the correct amount he instigated a clocking in and out system.

Last year I had three people doing too many hours, so at the end of the year they had an extra payment, but its down to me to keep things fair for everyone  so I introduced an app which records everyones hours, says Mr Elliott.

I then have a spreadsheet where I put everyones hours in and record their salaries, to give me their weekly average hours and what impact it has on their salary, as well as making sure theyre not working too much.

He would also rather have too much staffing than not enough, he says, adding: The balance between not enough staff and too many staff isnt much, I have a young family and Im willing to sacrifice having more money, rather than jeopardise my own work-life balance.

But he was finding it hard to recruit from within the agricultural industry, so he widened his search and now all his staff come from non-farming backgrounds.

Several people have moved back from London, who had been working as nurses, in mental health or IT, Mr Elliott explains.

I give opportunities to the people I feel have the right reasons behind wanting to have a go at farming," he says, "None of them had ever touched a cow before they came to work for me.

All I want is for people to turn up on time, be happy, bring good energy, be passionate and contribute to the team  none of that is qualification-based.

"Anyone who is local and wants an opportunity  I will always talk to them. I do advertise on Indeed, so some come through that.

He offers people who are interested a trial day, as he says some people are willing to give up their careers to start something new that they know nothing about.

"The worst case scenario is that they have some work experience and in the best case I offer them a job," Mr Elliott says.

You have to train people either way  whether they have experience or not. Often, people who have experience already have their way of doing things, but I want people to do it my way.

The process has allowed him to build a solid and effective team. You cant be afraid to try new people; I always have a set of values that I want from my team, I set these out in the interview and they have to abide by them."

He concludes: Im not saying that what I do is the best way or the only way, but its what I believe in, and it shines through in the team I have built.
Farmers across the country are being warned to be remain vigilant following a new wave of expensive GPS thefts in recent weeks.

Farms in Lincolnshire, Essex, Newport, North Yorkshire and Thames Valley have been targeted by organised criminals, with thieves looking to steal the kits.

Used to provide precision positioning for cultivation and harvesting operations, GPS has become one of the most targeted pieces of farm equipment because of their high value and portability.

According to the latest available figures from NFU Mutual, the cost of GPS theft in the UK increased by 15% to 1.8 million in 2022.

One successful prosecution saw two 'calculated criminals' sentenced to prison after stealing over 200,000 worth of high-value tractor GPS kits.

Humberside Police said they had recovered a total of 48 GPS units and screens that the pair had stolen.

Now NFU Mutual and the National Rural Crime Unit (NRCU) have warned farmers to remain vigilant for theft as farmers gear up for the harvest period.

Hannah Binns, NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist, said: Were urging farmers to take all possible steps to protect their GPS equipment, such as removing them from tractors where safe to do so and lock them somewhere securely when not in use.

If its not practical to remove units from machines, try and park vehicles where they cannot be easily seen.

"Also consider forensically marking, painting or scratching your farm name or post code onto the GPS to make them less attractive to thieves and harder to sell on.

Superintendent Andrew Huddleston, who leads the NRCU, said the new spate of GPS thefts showed how determined the organised criminal groups are.

He said: Organised crime groups are once again operating in the countryside, and they are targeting previous victims, especially those who have had GPS stolen in the last two years.

"All police forces that have had GPS units stolen are part of a national group that are working together to tackle this threat and help protect the UKs farming industry."

How can I protect my GPS kits?

NFU Mutual and NRCU have released a GPS security guide for farmers:

 Activate PIN security on your GPS kit with your own unique number

 Mark your postcode on the units case to deter thieves and trace your property back to you

 Keep tractors and combines with GPS stored out of sight whenever possible

 Remove GPS kit from tractors and other machinery and store it securely when not in use

 Record serial numbers and photograph your kit

 Return tractors and combines to the farm yard at night whenever possible

 Always remove keys and store them securely

 Keep farm yard gates closed and lock up buildings at night

 Consider installing CCTV or infra-red movement sensors in the yard

 Instruct staff to be on alert out for unknown people in the farm yard  they may be thieves using harvest time as expected visitors who use harvest time as an excuse to get into farm yards unchallenged

 Be wary of second hand GPS kit offered for sale and check serial numbers before buying
New research has highlighted that targeted use of parasitic worm treatment for roundworm in ewes is more effective than blanket treatment.

Roundworms are regarded as one of the major global threats to sheep productivity and welfare, as well as contributing to big economic losses.

They are mainly controlled by drug treatments, but anthelmintic resistance is becoming an increasing problem in the sector.

New research by Aberystwyth University has studied British farmers current approach to gastrointestinal nematodes, also known as roundworm, in ewes.

It surveyed 383 sheep farmers across Britain to ascertain current methods used to control infections, specifically in ewes.

Studies were then conducted evaluating the effect of utilising targeted selected treatments (TST), compared with blanket treatments, specifically at pre-tupping and lambing time.

Dr Eiry Williams, who undertook the PhD research, said: Blanket treatment of all ewes can be avoided on sheep farms through the application of a TST strategy.

"[This is] based on many different characteristics or a combination of characteristics, such as BCS, weight, dag score, age, breed with the possibility of behaviours being used in the future.

Application of TST will lead to a reduction in anthelmintic use, likely leading to a decrease in rate of anthelmintic resistance development, along with maintaining productivity and enhancing economic outputs in the long term.

Dr Heather McCalman, research executive at Hybu Cig Cymru  Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), welcomed the findings.

This will aid animal health and help farmers develop new management and decision-making practices which offer long-term financial, environmental and animal welfare benefits.

As we strive for increased sustainability in the sheep sector, strategic anthelmintic use plays a crucial role in ensuring longevity in their efficacy.

"This work gives a better understanding, through robust science, of when, where and how to use management tools - which will be of benefit to individual farmers and the industry as a whole.
British pig producers will now have access to the Vietnamese market for the first time, in a deal estimated to be worth around 12m over the first five years.

Vietnamese authorities have today (24 May) given the go-ahead for selected pork sites across the UK to start commercial trade.

It follows a lengthy process of audits and negotiations led by UK government, AHDB and wider industry, including the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP), to open another new market for the UKs pork sector.

Vietnam is a key target market for the sector, estimated to be worth 12 million to the pork sector over the first five years of trade.

Pork is the most favoured meat in the south east Asian country, with consumption outstripping domestic production.

UK access to the Vietnamese market is set to offer further opportunities to balance carcases and help underpin domestic pig prices.

Ouafa Doxon, AHDB senior market access manager, said the announcement was 'fantastic news' for the pork sector.

UK pork is known around the world for its high quality and reputation and we look forward to our exporters developing opportunities in this new market.

AHDB head of international trade development Jonathan Eckley added: One of AHDBs key strategic objectives is export development, working collaboratively with industry and government, to cultivate further opportunities for our red meat and dairy sectors.

"In anticipation of how our exporters can make the most of opportunities in Vietnam AHDB took part in the Food & Hotel Vietnam (FHV) trade show earlier this year."
Rajathi Kalimuthan isnt your typical CEO. Born and brought up in Chennai, she worked in the investment banking domain for more than a decade before becoming an entrepreneur. She charted a unique course to shattering the glass ceiling by being business savvy while harbouring a deep passion for health and womens empowerment.

An advocate for well-rounded, holistic wellness, Rajathi is drawn to yoga and mental health, which are key in ensuring the wellness of both body and mind. She also stands for and supports initiatives that educate girls and empower women for the benefit of the society. For Rajathi, its clear that an empowered woman is an unstoppable force, powerful and beautiful beyond measure.







Setting The Rhythm

It all started with a personal wake-up call. A regular scheduled medical check-up got the alarm bells ringing when her doctor informed Rajathi that her biological age was almost twice her actual age. This was despite her efforts to make sure that her lifestyle was as healthy as possible!



Rajathi realised that the problem extended beyond lifestyle; it was actually due to her inadequate water consumption and improper hydration habits that had aged her body significantly. This revelation sparked a life-changing journey, leading to establishing Rhythm Water.







Setting A Benchmark

RHYTHM  Purity of Himalayas is a unique and innovative premium brand of natural mineral water curated by Rajathi. Having dedicated her life to learning more about water, she trained in Germany as a water sommelier, a specialist who understands the intricacies of water quality and taste. But Rajathi didnt wish to simply be a commercial water sommelier dealing with appropriate food pairings with water and other culinary pursuits. Her journey was about finding the right source to create water perfectly balanced to be the best-suited to a healthy lifestyle. So, over four years ago, Rajathi embarked on a global quest spanning continents and having countless meetings with experts. Her tireless search, covering over 36,000 miles, finally led her to the source  the purest water nestled in the pristine heart of the Himalayas.





Sarvam Thaala Mayam, from the sound of the flow of water to the human heartbeat, everything is rhythmic. Rhythm was the key; Rhythm Water is Rajathis answer. This premium water, naturally enriched with essential minerals, is the cornerstone of her mission to make exceptional hydration accessible to all.



Rhythms core values are meticulously crafted, reflecting a deep understanding of connection with water and emphasising purpose, purity, and power. It is a testament to Rajathis belief that a healthy body and a strong mind are the ultimate power couple. Through Rhythm Water and her other endeavours, Rajathi fulfils her goal of empowering individuals to achieve a balanced life and pursue their passions  all while staying well-hydrated, of course.



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Actor Kani Kusruti, known for her recent film All We Imagine As Light, posed with a watermelon clutch at the film's Cannes 2024 screening, expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine.For the unversed, watermelon has become a symbol of Palestinian resistance, echoing the colours of their flag- red, green and black. The sovereign states flag also has white in it and the actress was wearing a well structured white dress. She completed her look by adding an Indian touch to it by wearing a bindi and some ethnic earrings.After the pictures went viral, several users, including actors from the Malayalam film industry gave a shout-out to Kani on their respective social media handles. Meanwhile, the cast and crew of the film were all smiles on the red carpet. It is after 30 years that an Indian film has competed for the Palme d'Or award at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
Bhediya co-stars Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon recently met at an event in Mumbai. The two were photographed happily posing with each other. Varun donned an aesthetic purple and yellow floral shirt while Kriti was seen in a white dress. The two were all smiles as they got photographed together.



Varun and Kriti have been friends and co-stars for more than a couple of years now. Apart from Bhediya, they have also starred together in Dilwale (2015). In fact, Kriti had a cameo in the Varun Dhawan starrer Kalank (2019) as well. The two danced to the song Aira Gaira with Aditya Roy Kapur.



Take a look at the endearing photos below:
Digital illusionist returned to his alma mater, Biola University, to share his 'Three-Step Guide to World Domination'

LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Biola University celebrated the accomplishments of its 2024 graduating class with a keynote address from renowned digital illusionist and internet creator Zach King. Famous for his magical videos, which according to King Studio have garnered over 150 million followers, Zach returned to his alma mater to impart his wisdom and experiences to the new graduates.

Zach's Biola's Commencement Speech

Zach King Speaking at Biola's Commencement



In his speech titled "Three-Step Guide to World Domination," Zach distilled his journey to success into three essential steps. First, Zach advised students to "prepare for rejection." Zach illustrated this point by recounting the story about how he was initially rejected from the film program at Biola, which was devastating to him at the time, ultimately enabling him to discover a little-known website called YouTube. Zach's second piece of advice to students was to "gamble on yourself." Again, drawing from his personal/professional experience, Zach describes how he gambled on himself and chose to pursue a rather unstable career in social media over a traditional regular-paying job.

The third and final piece of advice was to "repeat steps one and two continuously." In sum, Zach's message emphasized the inevitability of setbacks and the importance of resilience, where rejection is not the end but simply a redirection, encouraging graduates to see each challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Zach's message extended beyond the pursuit of personal success. He urged the graduates to embrace a higher calling of kindness in their endeavors. In this, he challenged his audience to maintain a balanced perspective of ambition and compassion when he stated, "I'm so excited that you're leaving here, pursuing your dreams  just be sure to look out for others along the way."

Zach King's full Biola Commencement speech can be viewed here.

Contact Information

Zach King Team

hello@zachkingteam.com

SOURCE: King Studio

View the original press release on newswire.com.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Loop Energy Inc. ("Loop" or the "Company") (TSX:LPEN) today provides the following update on the strategic review process:

The Company has limited financial resources.

In order to extend its limited financial resources, the Company has reduced its workforce and now employs less than 15 people worldwide.

The Company has engaged Alvarez & Marsal Canada ULC ("A&M") to advise the Company's Management and Board on strategic alternatives that may be available to the Company.

If the Company is unable to raise additional capital, either through the sale of assets or the raising of additional funds, it may be required to consider alternatives which may include proceeding with an orderly winding-down of its operations that would not see Loop continue to operate as a going concern.

Forward-Looking Warning

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflect management's current expectations and projections regarding future events. Forward looking information includes statements related to the next steps for Loop's strategic review process. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions (including without limitation assumptions with respect to negotiations with third parties, the current and future performance of the Company's products, growth in demand for the Company's products and the Company's ability to execute on its current strategy), and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control and could cause actual results and events to vary materially from those that are disclosed, or implied, by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with, and uncertainty regarding, the realization of costs savings from implementation of the Company's operating cost reduction program and benefits derived therefrom, the realization of electrification of transportation and hydrogen adoption rates, the elimination of diesel fuel and ongoing government support of such hydrocarbon fuels, the expected growth in demand for fuel cells in the commercial transportation market, our ability to obtain future patent grants for our proprietary technology and the effectiveness of current and future patents in protecting our technology as well as the other risk factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2024 and in its other disclosure documents. Loop Energy disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Loop Energy Investor and Media Inquiries:

Paul Cataford | investors@loopenergy.com

SOURCE: Loop Energy Inc

View the original press release on accesswire.com
LAGUNA BEACH, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / World-renowned artist Vladimir Kush presents his new painting "Mother" Oil on Canvas (33.25"x 25"). The Metaphorical Realist unveiled his new artwork during his exhibition in Art Miami. A Captive Audience (another title by the artist) is the best way to describe the reaction from the crowds and attendants as they walked into Kush's world during the art fair.

Mother

From a distance, this painting looks as if it was painted in accordance with the Renaissance canons, as the Madonna with Child. But up close, we realize that it is a Muslim woman in a hijab, holding a blanket. But instead of a baby, there is a hand grenade. We can imagine that this grenade has become her "favorite child" in the act of vengeance after losing her family and children.

A sketch or drawing from the artist with the same title was originally published in one of his books (Black & White Matters). This concept with a similar symbolism initiated the conceptualization onto the artist's easel and into the canvas. Kush is a classically trained artist and, in accordance with European tradition descending from the times of Albrecht Durer, understands that drawing is the basis of two-dimensional art.

Since the early 2000's the American cultural environment accepted the artist and his vision. Metaphorical Realism and the Kush Fine Art brand were established. It is worth noting that he settled on an exotic island in the Pacific, of which he dreamed as a boy but could not visit from behind the Iron Curtain that was the Soviet Union. Now Kush owns several large high-end galleries across the United States: "Kush Fine Art", which are currently located in Las Vegas, Laguna Beach, and Miami Beach, and has permanent exhibitions worldwide.

The internationally recognized artist features more than 400 titles of paintings and limited-edition prints, 80 bronze sculptures and many more art mediums including a jewelry line and a wearable art collection. When you visit Kush Fine Art Galleries, you will be served with warmth and an eye for your unique style as you seek the perfect piece to add to your collection. For more information, visit www.kushfineart.com or email at info@kushfineart.com and follow Kush on Instagram, Facebook, Threads and X.

Contact Information

Jorge Barrera

Marketing Director

jorge.barrera@vladimirkush.com

SOURCE: Kush Fine Art

View the original press release on newswire.com.
HYDERABAD, India, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyderabad, the City of Pearls in India, witnessed the unveiling of its newest crowning jewel - Megaleio, an opulent residential project designed to redefine luxury living. Navanaami Projects Private Ltd., a leading real estate developer from Hyderabad, has unveiled this architectural magnum opus, poised to become a modern-day landmark in the city.

Spread across a sprawling 4.1 acres, Megaleio is situated in the lap of nature, surrounded by a 1,200-acre green expanse and in close proximity to the protected waterbodies of Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar. Its prime location at Appa Junction Peerancheru offers unparalleled accessibility, with the city's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport just 20 minutes away and the Financial District a mere 15-minute drive.

Expressing his excitement, Mr. Naveen Gadde, Founder and MD, Navanaami, said, "At Navanaami, we push boundaries of design and innovation. Megaleio represents a harmonious convergence of design, sustainability, and uncompromising luxury. We invite the world to experience a new paradigm of living."

Megaleio's towering presence includes two iconic towers soaring to a height of 50 floors, encompassing 150 exquisite residences that are nothing short of opulent. The awe-inspiring Megaleio twin towers is a landmark visible from the airport.

Megaleio offers unparalleled amenities and facilities that elevate ultra-luxury living to new heights. Residents can revel in branded kitchens, state-of-the-art home automation systems, noise-controlled windows, opulent bathrooms, and sustainable features that seamlessly blend eco-consciousness with sophistication. Private garages with EV charging capabilities and soaring 9-foot doorways further amplify the exclusive allure of Megaleio.

Sustainability is at the core of Megaleio, with the IGBC certified and LEED-designed project bringing together a harmonious fusion of architectural ingenuity and eco-friendly living. In collaboration with renowned architectural firms like DesignHaaus, Tierra, Arup, and Optimisation Consultants, every aspect of Megaleio has been meticulously curated to minimize its environmental footprint while maximizing luxury and comfort.

The RERA-approved project (PO2400007676) boasts a stunning design with double-height ceilings, a conscious facade, and expansive interiors that create a remarkable ambiance. The 150 meticulously crafted residences, each a canvas of opulence and sophistication, is divided in three units: Skyline tower units with an area of 11,111sq.ft; Unity tower units with an area of 9999 sq.ft and 8888 sq.ft.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2420710/Navanaami_Magnum_Opus_Megaleio.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2420711/Navanaami_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/navanaami-launches-megaleio-in-hyderabad-india-the-new-pinnacle-of-architectural-excellence-and-sustainable-luxury-302154940.html
Singapore, Singapore--(Newsfile Corp. - May 24, 2024) - KaJ Labs, a leader in AI and blockchain innovation, is thrilled to announce the integration of the Grok, Llama, and Gemini AI models into its cutting-edge Web3 platform, AGII. This strategic move is set to enhance AGII's capabilities, providing users with unparalleled AI-driven tools to transform digital content creation within the Web3 ecosystem.





Explore limitless possibilities with AGII, the ultimate AI-powered prompt engine for Web3. Transform your ideas into reality and lead the next wave of digital innovation.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8833/210345_56.jpg

Elevating AGII's AI Capabilities

AGII, already known for its robust AI prompt engine, will significantly benefit from the integration of these three powerful AI models:

Grok: Known for its deep learning capabilities, Grok will enhance AGII's ability to understand and generate complex textual and visual content with high accuracy. This will allow users to produce more refined and contextually relevant outputs.

Llama: As an advanced language model, Llama will improve natural language processing and understanding of AGII, facilitating more intuitive and human-like interactions. This integration aims to make content creation smoother and more engaging for users.

Gemini: With its strong focus on multimodal AI, Gemini will enable AGII to integrate text, image, and video content generation seamlessly. This will empower users to create diverse types of digital content, fostering a more versatile and dynamic Web3 environment.

Enhancing User Experience in Web3

By incorporating Grok, Llama, and Gemini, AGII aims to redefine user experience in the Web3 space. These integrations will provide users with:

Enhanced Content Generation: Users will experience improved efficiency and creativity in generating digital content, from written articles to complex multimedia presentations.

Advanced AI Interactions: The platform will offer more sophisticated and responsive AI interactions, making it easier for users to achieve their creative and operational goals.

Greater Flexibility and Innovation: The combination of these models will bring unprecedented flexibility, allowing users to leverage advanced AI features across various applications and industries.

Commitment to Innovation

KaJ Labs' decision to integrate these advanced AI models reflects its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation. CEO J.King Kasr expressed enthusiasm about the integration: "The addition of Grok, Llama, and Gemini to AGII underscores our dedication to providing state-of-the-art AI tools for the Web3 era. We believe this will significantly enhance the platform's capabilities, empowering our users to push the boundaries of digital content creation."

About KaJ Labs

KaJ Labs is a pioneering force in AI and blockchain technology, dedicated to advancing these fields to create intelligent and efficient solutions. The firm is committed to driving transformation across various sectors through innovative technology and a focus on excellence.

About AGII

AGII is an advanced AI platform at the forefront of content generation in the Web3 landscape. By leveraging artificial intelligence, AGII supports creators, developers, and businesses in navigating the complexities of digital content creation and distribution.

For more information about AGII and to stay updated on the integration process, visit KaJ Labs' official website.

Media Contact:

Dorothy Marley

KaJ Labs

+1 707-622-6168

media@kajlabs.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/210345

SOURCE: Kaj Labs
Curatis Holding AG / Key word(s): Annual Results/Personnel

Curatis Holding AG publishes Annual Report of the (then still named) Kinarus Group for FY2023 and announces appointment of Chief Financial Officer



24-May-2024 / 07:00 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Full Annual Report of Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG for the financial year 2023 published today

Publication of audited consolidated & statutory FY2023 financial statements of Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG already occurred on 17 April 2024

Patrick Ramsauer appointed as Chief Financial Officer of Curatis Holding AG with immediate effect Liestal, Switzerland, 24 May 2024: Curatis Holding AG (CURN.SW), previously Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG (together with its subsidiaries "Curatis Group", or the "Company"), a SIX Swiss Exchange listed specialty pharmaceutical and therapeutic drug development company focused on orphan and ultra-orphan indications today published its annual report for FY2023. The audited consolidated FY2023 financial statements and the audited statutory FY2023 financial statements of the Company, together the audited "FY2023 Financial Statements", had already been published on 17 April 2024. Both, Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG and its 100% subsidiary, Kinarus AG in Liquidation had filed for bankruptcy in October 2023, but on 5 February 2024, bankruptcy of Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG was revoked by the competent courts of Basel-Stadt to pave the way for the business combination of Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG and Curatis AG, a Basel-Landschaft incorporated specialty medicine distribution and drug development company (the "Business Combination"), which was completed on 26 April 2024. Kinarus AG in Liquidation remains in liquidation. The 2023 Annual Report of Kinarus Group therefore does not provide a comprehensive and transparent picture on the effective situation of the Company today after the completion of the Business Combination of Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG with Curatis AG. Furthermore, the Company announced today that it has appointed Patrick Ramsauer as Chief Financial Officer in a part time role with immediate effect. Patrick Ramsauer has a strong finance background and has extensive experience from various financial roles, in Corporate Finance at UBS AG, as founder of RBR Capital, an asset management company focused on Swiss and European Equities, in Business Development for Palantir, a US AI and Data Technology company as well as in his role as CFO of an emerging data integration technology company since 2021. Patrick Ramsauer holds a Masters degree in Finance from the University of Zurich, Switzerland. Since spring 2023 he is a Partner at Yuma Capital, a boutique corporate finance & capital advisory firm, and has in this role amongst others supported Curatis in the recent business combination with Kinarus. Curatis has found en excellent candidate to fill this vacant position, and is convinced that Patrick Ramsauer's knowledge and experience in finance and data technology will greatly complement Curatis' Executive Management Team. About the Curatis Group: Curatis Holding AG is a publicly listed specialty pharmaceutical company with a distribution and drug development business. The focus of the Curatis Group's business activities is on high unmet medical need orphan and ultra-orphan indications, pursued via its wholly owned operating subsidiary Curatis AG. The Curatis Group was formed by the Business Combination of Kinarus Therapeutics Holding AG and Curatis AG in April 2024. Investor Relations Contact:

YUMA Capital

Thomas Bieri

Managing Partner

Tel: +41 44 575 2201

thomas.bieri@yuma-capital.com Disclaimer

The information contained in this media release and in any link to our website indicated herein is not for use within any country or jurisdiction or by any persons where such use would constitute a violation of law. If this applies to you, you are not authorized to access or use any such information.

This media release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about us and our industry. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain the words "may", "will", "should", "continue", "believe", "anticipate", "expect", "estimate", "intend", "project", "plan", "will likely continue", "will likely result", or words or phrases with similar meaning. Undue reliance should not be placed on such statements because, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors outside of the control of Curatis Group, that may cause Curatis' business, strategy or actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements (or from past results). For any factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this media release, please see our listing prospectus in connection with the Business Combination. Curatis Group undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether to reflect new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise. It should further be noted that past performance is not a guide to future performance. Persons requiring advice should consult an independent adviser.

The information contained in this media release is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to purchase or subscribe for securities. This media release is not a prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act nor a prospectus under any other applicable laws.

Some financial information in this media release has been rounded and, as a result, the figures shown as totals in this media release may vary slightly from the exact arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede them.

End of Inside Information
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Pan African Resources Plc - Proposed Capital Reduction and Notice of General Meeting

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, May 24

Pan African Resources PLC (Incorporated and registered in England and Wales under the Companies Act 1985 with registered number 3937466 on 25 February 2000) Share code on AIM: PAF Share code on JSE: PAN ISIN: GB0004300496 ADR ticker code: PAFRY ("Pan African" or the "Company" or the "Group") Pan African Resources Funding Company Limited Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa with limited liability Registration number: 2012/021237/06 Alpha code: PARI

PROPOSED CAPITAL REDUCTION AND NOTICE OF GENERAL MEETING

Notice of general meeting

Notice is hereby given that a General Meeting of Shareholders (General Meeting) will be held at the offices of Fladgate LLP, 16 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5DG on Monday, 10 June 2024 at 10:00 (all references to time in this notice is United Kingdom time, unless otherwise stated).

Shareholders are advised that the notice of General Meeting and circular will be distributed to shareholders on Friday, 24 May 2024.

The circular provides information, in respect of a capital reduction to enable the Company to pay future dividends, address the payment of certain past distributions by the Company by way of dividends, and in respect of certain share buy backs as well as the resultant related party transactions. The Company now understands that these past distributions have apparently been paid otherwise than in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. A copy of the notice of General Meeting and circular are also available at: https://www.panafricanresources.com/investors/shareholder-announcements/

The chairman's letter has been extracted from the circular and is set out at the end of this announcement. The defined terms used in the chairman's letter shall have the same meaning as set out in the circular.

Salient dates relevant to the General Meeting

Record date for receipt of the Circular Tuesday, 21 May 2024 Last day to trade on the JSE in order to vote at the General Meeting Monday, 3 June 2024 Last day to trade on the LSE in order to vote at the General Meeting Tuesday, 4 June 2024 Record date for purposes of voting at the General Meeting Thursday, 6 June 2024 Latest time and date for receipt of Forms of Proxy for the General Meeting 10.00 (London time) a.m. on Thursday, 6 June 2024 General Meeting 10.00 (London time) a.m. on Monday, 10 June 2024 Expected date of initial directions hearing of the Court Friday, 21 June 2024 Expected date of Court Hearing to confirm the Capital Reduction Tuesday, 2 July 2024 Expected effective date for the Capital Reduction Wednesday, 3 July 2024

Notes

1. The expected dates for the confirmation of the Capital Reduction by the Court and the Capital Reduction becoming effective are based on provisional dates that have been obtained for the required Court hearings of the Company's application. These provisional hearing dates are subject to change and dependent on the Court's timetable.

2. The timetable assumes that there is no adjournment of the General Meeting. If there is an adjournment, all subsequent dates are likely to be adjusted accordingly.

Johannesburg

24 May 2024

For further information on Pan African, please visit the Company's website at:

www.panafricanresources.com

Corporate information Corporate office The Firs Building 2nd Floor, Office 204 Cnr. Cradock and Biermann Avenues Rosebank, Johannesburg South Africa Office: + 27 (0)11 243 2900 info@paf.co.za Registered office 2nd Floor 107 Cheapside London EC2V 6DN United Kingdom Office: + 44 (0)20 7796 8644 info@paf.co.za Chief executive officer Cobus Loots Office: + 27 (0)11 243 2900 Financial director and debt officer Deon Louw Office: + 27 (0)11 243 2900 Head: Investor relations Hethen Hira

Tel: + 27 (0)11 243 2900

E-mail: hhira@paf.co.za Website: www.panafricanresources.com Company secretary Jane Kirton St James's Corporate Services Limited Office: + 44 (0)20 7796 8644 Nominated adviser and joint broker Ross Allister/Georgia Langoulant Peel Hunt LLP Office: +44 (0)20 7418 8900 JSE Sponsor and JSE debt sponsor Ciska Kloppers Questco Corporate Advisory Proprietary Limited Office: + 27 (0) 11 011 9200 Joint broker Thomas Rider/Nick Macann BMO Capital Markets Limited Office: +44 (0)20 7236 1010 Joint broker Matthew Armitt/Jennifer Lee Joh. Berenberg, Gossler & Co KG Office: +44 (0)20 3207 7800

The chairman's letter (which is dated 24 May 2024) extracted from the circular reads as follows:

"Dear Shareholder,

PROPOSED CAPITAL REDUCTION

and

PROPOSED RECTIFICATION OF RELEVANT DIVIDENDS

and

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

and

NOTICE OF GENERAL MEETING

Introduction

I am writing to provide you with details of a proposal to maintain the Company's ability to return value to Shareholders in the future by way of dividends and to address the payment of certain past distributions made by the Company by way of dividend and payments in respect of certain share buy backs, that have now understood to have been paid otherwise than in accordance with the Companies Act 2006.

This document also provides the details of a General Meeting that will be held at the offices of Fladgate LLP at 16 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5DG at 10.00 a.m. (London time) on Monday, 10June 2024 to consider the Resolution that will be put to Shareholders for approval.

The purpose of this document is to provide you with information about the Capital Reduction, the proposed rectification of Relevant Distributions and the related party transactions and to explain why the Board considers the Resolution to be in the best interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole and unanimously recommends that you vote in favour of the Resolution to be proposed at the General Meeting.

Given the interests of the Board in the Directors' Deed of Release (and therefore the Resolution), and as required by the AIM Rules, the Board are not considered to be independent in relation to the Directors' Deed of Release or the Resolution and the Board therefore cannot provide the opinion required by Rule 13 of the AIM Rules as to the fairness and reasonableness of the Directors' Deed of Release and the Resolution. Accordingly, Peel Hunt (as the nominated adviser of the Company) has confirmed that the Directors' Deed of Release and the Resolution are fair and reasonable insofar as the Shareholders are concerned and recommends that Shareholders vote in favour of the Resolution.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Proposals do not constitute a related party transaction in accordance with the JSE Listings Requirements.

Shareholders should note that, unless the Resolution is approved at the General Meeting and the Court subsequently confirms the Capital Reduction:

A) the Capital Reduction will not take effect; and

B) the declaration and making of distributions otherwise than in accordance with the Act will not be rectified.

If the Resolution is not approved, then the Company will retain a potential right to make claims against the Recipient Shareholders for recovery of the payment of the Relevant Distributions. There is no certainty that judgment would be successfully obtained by the Company against the Recipient Shareholders or that any amount could be recovered if the Company sought to pursue these potential claims.

If the Resolution is not approved, then the Company has a potential right to bring claims against the Relevant Directors in relation to the payment of the Relevant Distributions. There is no certainty that judgment would be successfully obtained by the Company against the Relevant Directors or that any amount could be recovered if the Company sought to pursue these potential claims.

Part II of this document contains definitions of words and terms that have been used throughout it. Please refer to Part II as you review this document.

Background to, and reasons for, the Capital Reduction

The Group is an African-focused gold producer with a production capacity in excess of 200,000 ounces of gold per annum. It owns and operates a portfolio of high-quality, low-cost operations and projects, which are located in South Africa. Accordingly, all of the Group's revenue arises from trading in South Africa, and so the day to day accounting of the Company and the Group is recorded in ZAR. In other words, the Functional Currency of the Company and the Group is ZAR. The trading of the Group in the years ended 30 June 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 were profitable in ZAR terms.

The Board considers the Group to be mid-tier gold producer. The Presentation Currency of other similar gold-producing groups is US$ and so, in order to ensure that the Group can easily be compared to those other similar gold-producing groups, US$ was chosen to be the Presentation Currency of the Company and the Group. The first audited accounts of the Company and the Group where the Presentation Currency was US$ was the audited accounts for the year ended 30 June 2019.

The Act requires that a public limited company must satisfy certain criteria in order to be able to declare and pay a dividend. Not only must a public limited company have distributable profits, but the Act also provides that a public limited company may only pay a dividend if it can satisfy the Net Assets Test. The Company paid the dividends set out in paragraph 3 below in respect of the years ended 30 June 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Those dividends amount, in aggregate, to US$93,384,863 (the "Relevant Dividends").

A company may only acquire its own shares when the purchase price for such acquisition is paid out of profits available for distribution (as determined in accordance with the Act) or out of the proceeds of a fresh issue of shares for that purpose. The determination of the level of distributable profits for the purchase of an own share acquisition engages the same principles as dividends, including a need to satisfy the Net Assets Test. With the Buy Backs, the Company acquired its own shares in the period 1 April and 9 May 2022. Insofar as there were not profits available for distribution, the payments made for those shares would be characterised as distributions made by the Company to the benefit of those shareholders. The total sums paid out by the Company in respect of the Buy Backs were ZAR 50.3 million.Further details of the Buy Backs are set out in paragraph 4 of Part IV of this document.

It has come to the attention of the Company that the Technical Release clarifies that the Net Assets Test is required to be performed on the Presentation Currency amounts (not the Functional Currency amounts). Since 2019, when the presentation currency was changed to the US Dollar, the Rand has depreciated by 34% over the five years ending 30 June 2023. The translation of the Company's accounts from the Functional Currency to the Presentation Currency resulted in the Foreign Currency Translation Reserve which, as at 30 June 2023 stood at US$171,045,970 and exceeded the Company's retained income of US$ 47,238,936. It has also come to the attention of the Company that the Foreign Currency Translation Reserve does not form part of the Company's undistributable reserves, despite it being unrealised in nature, and so cannot be included as undistributable reserves when carrying out the Net Assets Test. As explained in paragraph 1.3 of Part IV of this document, the Company should not have made the Relevant Distributions because doing so breached the Net Assets Test, as interpreted by the Technical Release, and so the Relevant Distributions were not in accordance with the Act.

Under the Act, a company may, with the sanction of a special resolution passed by its shareholders and confirmation of the Court, reduce or cancel its share capital, share premium account, and other reserves. It may then apply the sums resulting from such reduction to its distributable reserves. These sums may then be treated as distributable for the purposes of making future returns to Shareholders.

The Company has at 30 June 2023, a Share Premium Account standing to the credit of US$235,063,183

The Act requires that if a company issues shares at a premium to the nominal value of those shares for cash or otherwise, a sum equal to the aggregate amount or value of the premiums must be transferred to the company's share premium account. A share premium account can only be used in very limited circumstances. The Company intends to reduce the Share Premium Account in full.

The Share Premium Account is a statutory reserve in respect of which the Court has the power to sanction the reduction or cancellation.

The Capital Reduction, if approved, will provide the Company with the flexibility to continue with its existing progressive dividend policy and will allow the rectification of the Relevant Distributions which have been paid otherwise than in accordance with the Act as described in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part IV of this document.

Payment of Relevant Distributiona

Details of the Relevant Dividends are set out below:

Date and type of dividend payment (interim or final) Amount per

Ordinary Share in ZAR Amount per

Ordinary Share in pence Amount per

Ordinary Share in US cents Exchange rate used to convert into US$ Total aggregate amount

of dividend paid in US$ Final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 June 2019 - paid on 30 December 2019 ZAR 0.0223745 0.11725 pence 0.15179 US cents 1 = ZAR 19.0825 US$1 = ZAR 14.74 US$3,399,049 Final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 June 2020 - paid on 15 December 2020 ZAR 0.14 0.68857 pence 0.92105 US cents 1 = ZAR 20.3320 US$1 = ZAR 15.20 US$20,606,644 Final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 June 2021 - paid on 14 December 2021 ZAR 0.18 0.84954 pence 1.13924 cents 1 = ZAR 21.1880 US$1 = ZAR 15.80 US$24,984,084 Final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 June 2022 - paid on 13 December 2022 ZAR 0.18 0.86915 pence 1.05820 US cents 1 = ZAR 20.71 US$1 = ZAR 17.01 US$23,168,220 Final dividend in respect of the year ended 30 June 2023 - paid on 12 December 2023 ZAR 0.18 0.76239 pence 0.95491 US cents 1 = ZAR 23.61 US$1 = ZAR 18.85 US$21,226,866 Total aggregate value US$93,384,863

Part IV of this document sets out details of how the Relevant Dividends were paid otherwise than in accordance with the Act as well as the proposals for rectification.

Between 1 April and 9 May 2022, the Company repurchased (by making several purchases during the period) in aggregate 11,825,491 Ordinary Shares for a total consideration of ZAR 50.3 million (which was, at the time, equivalent to approximately 2.55 million and US$ 3.222 million.

The consequence of the Relevant Distributions being made otherwise than in accordance with the Act is that the Company may have a claim against all shareholders (former or present) who received any such distribution (up to the maximum value of cumulative distributions received by each shareholder from the Relevant Distributions) as well as a claim against all Directors (former or present, individually or in aggregate) who approved the making of the Relevant Distributions, up to the total aggregate value of US$93,384,863 in respect of the Relevant Dividends and in respect of US$ 3.222 million (equivalent to approximately 2.55 million) in respect of the Buy Backs.

The Company has entered into the Shareholders' Deed of Release and the Directors' Deed of Release. The consequence of the entry into these deeds by the Company is that the Company will be unable to make any claims against: (a) the Recipient Shareholders; and (b) the Relevant Directors, in each case in respect of the Relevant Distributions.

In addition, the Company has entered into the Peel Hunt Deed of Release with Peel Hunt and the RMB Morgan Stanley Deed of Release with RMB Morgan Stanley. Under the Peel Hunt Deed of Release, which is conditional upon the Capital Reduction becoming effective and the passing of the Resolution, the Company waived and released Peel Hunt from any and all claims which the Company has, or may have, in respect of the UK Buy Back and Peel Hunt waived and released the Company from any and all claims which Peel Hunt has, or may have, in respect of the UK Buy Back. Under the RMB Morgan Stanley Deed of Release, which is conditional upon the Capital Reduction becoming effective and the passing of the Resolution, pursuant to which the Company waived and released RMB Morgan Stanley from any and all claims which the Company has, or may have, in respect of the SA Buy Back and RMB Morgan Stanley waived and released the Company from any and all claims which RMB Morgan Stanley has, or may have, in respect of the SA Buy Back For further details please see paragraph 4 of Part IV of this document.

The entry by the Company into the Directors' Deed of Release constituted a related party transaction (as defined in the AIM Rules). This is because each of the Relevant Directors (comprising persons who are, or were within the last 12 months, directors of the Company) is deemed to be a related party under the AIM Rules and they will be released from any liability to repay any amounts of the Relevant Distributions pursuant to the Directors' Deed of Release (as applicable). Paragraph (e) of the Resolution will seek the specific approval of the Company's shareholders for the entry into the Directors' Deed of Release.

Ensuring the Company complies with the Net Assets Test in the future

The technical issues identified in paragraph 3 above and Part IV of this document in respect of the Relevant Distributions are of a historical nature and there is no change in the Company's financial position or its net asset value as a consequence.

The Company is considering a number of accounting approaches/strategies to ensure adequate distributable income (and the ability of the Company to comply with the Net Assets Test) in the future Accordingly, we do not believe any further remedial action is required. For avoidance of doubt, the Company continues to deem its procedures, systems and controls to be sufficient to enable it to comply with its obligations under the AIM Rules, disclosure requirements, transparency rules and corporate governance rules, as well as its requirement to make timely and accurate disclosure to the market.

The Capital Reduction

As a result of the Company's stated desire to continue with its existing progressive dividend policy, and in order to rectify the Relevant Distributions made otherwise than in accordance with the Act, the Company must undertake the Capital Reduction to provide it with the necessary distributable reserves.

In addition to the approval by Shareholders of the cancellation of the share premium account, the reduction of capital requires the approval of the Court. Accordingly, following the General Meeting, an application will be made to the Court in order to confirm and approve the reduction of capital.

In providing its approval of the Capital Reduction, the Court may require measures to be put in place for the protection of creditors (including contingent creditors) of the Company whose debts remain outstanding on the relevant date, except in the case of creditors who have consented to the Capital Reduction. Shareholders should note that (although the Group has debt and creditors) the Company itself (which will be the entity considered by the Court) has no senior debt and only minor creditors for service providers to the Company are expected. Such creditor protection measures may include seeking the consent of the Company's creditors to the Capital Reduction or the provision by the Company to the Court of an undertaking to deposit a sum of money into a blocked account created for the purpose of discharging the non-consenting creditors of the Company or an undertaking to treat as undistributable for the time being certain sums representing the realisation of "hidden value" in the balance sheet as at the Effective Date.

It is anticipated that the initial directions hearing in relation to the Capital Reduction will take place on Friday, 21June 2024, with the final Court Hearing taking place on Tuesday, 2 July 2024 and the Capital Reduction becoming effective on the following day, following the necessary registration of the Court Order at Companies House.

There will be no change in the number of Ordinary Shares in issue (or their nominal value) following the implementation of the Capital Reduction and no new share certificates will be issued as a result of the Capital Reduction. The Capital Reduction itself will not involve any distribution or repayment of capital or share premium by the Company and will not reduce the underlying net assets of the Company. The distributable reserves arising on the Capital Reduction will, subject to the discharge of any undertakings required by the Court as explained above, support the Company's ability to pay dividends should circumstances in the future make it desirable to do so and the appropriation of profits to ratify relevant accounting entries.

Shareholders should note that if, for any reason, the Court declines to approve the Capital Reduction, the Capital Reduction will not take place. The Board reserves the right to abandon or to discontinue (in whole or in part) the application to the Court in the event that the Board considers that the terms on which the Capital Reduction would be (or would be likely to be) confirmed by the Court would not be in the best interests of the Company and/or its Shareholders as a whole. The Board has undertaken a thorough and extensive review of the Company's liabilities (including contingent liabilities) and considers that the Company will be able to satisfy the Court that there is no real likelihood that any creditor of the Company would be prejudiced by the Capital Reduction.

General Meeting and Resolution

The Notice of General Meeting is set out in Part V of this document.

The General Meeting will take place at the offices of Fladgate LLP at 16 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5DG at 10.00 a.m. (London time) on Monday, 10 June 2024. At the General Meeting, the Resolution set out in Part V of this document will be proposed to Shareholders.

The Resolution, which will be proposed as a special resolution, has five elements to it, each of which are summarised below:

the first element is to approve, subject to confirmation of the Court, the cancellation of the Share Premium Account.

the second element is, subject to the Capital Reduction becoming effective, to approve that distributable profits of the Company be appropriated to the relevant accounting periods during which the Relevant Distributions were declared and paid.

the third element is to approve the release and waiver by the Company of any claims which it has or may have against either of the Brokers in respect of the Buy Backs (and the reciprocal release and waiver by each of the Brokers of any claims which either of them have or may have against the Company) in respect of the Buy Backs and to ratify and authorise the entry into the Brokers' Deeds of Release by the Company .

the fourth element is to approve the release and waiver of all claims which the Company may have in respect of the Relevant Distributions against previous and current shareholders and their successors in title and to ratify and authorise the entry into the Shareholders' Deed of Release by the Company.

the fifthelement is to approve the release and waiver of all claims which the Company may have in respect of the Relevant Distributions against the directors (current and former and their personal representatives and successors in title) at the time of declaration and payment of each respective Relevant Distributions and to ratify and authorise the entry into the Directors' Deed of Release by the Company.

The Resolution (being a special resolution) will be passed if 75% or more of the votes cast (in person or by proxy) at the General Meeting are in favour of the Resolution.

Related Party Transactions

Given the interests of each of the Directors in the Resolution it is not appropriate for the Board to provide a recommendation in this instance.

In lieu of any independent directors' recommendation in relation to the Resolution, in order to provide a statement as to what is fair and reasonable, and specifically due to all Directors being statutory directors at the time the Relevant Distributions were proposed and paid, Peel Hunt, in its capacity as Nominated Adviser to the Company for the purposes of the AIM Rules, considers that the Resolution (and specifically the entry by the Company into the Shareholders' Deed of Release and the Directors' Deed of Release) are fair and reasonable insofar as the shareholders of the Company are concerned.

Taxation position of UK shareholders

The following comments are intended as a general guide only and relate only to certain UK tax consequences of the Reduction of Capital. The comments are based on current legislation and HM Revenue & Customs published practice, both of which are subject to change, possibly with retrospective effect. These comments deal only with Shareholders who are resident for taxation purposes in the UK, who are the absolute beneficial owners of the Ordinary Shares and who hold them as an investment and not in a trading account ("UK Shareholders"). They do not deal with the position of certain classes of Shareholders, such as dealers in securities, insurance companies, collective investment schemes or persons regarded as having obtained their Ordinary Shares by reason of employment.

Any Shareholder who has any doubt about their own taxation position, or who is subject to taxation in any jurisdiction other than the UK should consult their own professional taxation advisor immediately.

The Share Premium Reduction

The Share Premium Reduction should not have any consequences for UK Shareholders for the purposes of UK taxation of chargeable gains ("CGT"), UK income tax or UK corporation tax.

UK stamp duty and stamp duty reserve tax

No stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax will be payable on the Reduction of Capital.

Action to be taken in respect of the General Meeting

Shareholders can appoint a proxy electronically using the link www.signalshares.com - Details of how to appoint a proxy in this way are set out on pages 20 to 23of this document. Details of how to complete, or request an additional, hard copy Form of Proxy are set out on pages 20 to 23 of this document. To be valid, a Form of Proxy must be returned as soon as possible and so as to be received by the Registrars by not later than 10.00 a.m. (London time) on Thursday, 6 June 2024.

The completion and return of the Form of Proxy will not prevent you from attending and voting at the General Meeting in person.

In accordance with current best practice and to ensure voting accurately reflects the views of Shareholders, it will be proposed at the General Meeting that voting on the Resolution will be conducted by poll vote rather than by a show of hands and the relevant procedures will be explained at the General Meeting.

If the Resolution is not passed, the Company may continue to have claims against the Relevant Directors and Recipient Shareholders.

Questions

If you wish to ask a question relating to the business of the General Meeting in advance, please submit your questions to info@paf.co.za. or jane.kirton@corpserv.co.uk, please include in your email: the shareholder's full name, number of shares held and telephone contact details.

Recommendation

The Board consider the Resolution to be in the best interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole and the Board unanimously recommend that you vote in favour of the Resolution to be proposed at the General Meeting.

Given the interests of the Board in the Directors' Deed of Release (and therefore the Resolution), and as required by the AIM Rules, the Board are not considered to be independent in relation to the Directors' Deed of Release or the Resolution and the Board therefore cannot provide the opinion required by Rule 13 of the AIM Rules as to the fairness and reasonableness of the Directors' Deed of Release and the Resolution. Accordingly, Peel Hunt (as the nominated adviser of the Company) has confirmed that the Directors' Deed of Release and the Resolution is fair and reasonable insofar as the Shareholders are concerned and recommends that Shareholders vote in favour of the Resolution.

In addition, the Directors have each undertaken to abstain, and to take all reasonable steps to ensure that their respective associates abstain, from voting on the Resolution. The aggregate shareholdings of the Directors are 14,488,695 Ordinary Shares representing approximately 0.76% of the Ordinary Shares in issue at the date of this document.

Yours faithfully

Keith Spencer

Non-executive Chairman"
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Following a record-breaking year, the China International Import Expo (CIIE) is set for an even bigger event in 2024, providing a prime platform for global companies to enter the Chinese market.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524984363/en/

The sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in 2023 attracted numerous exhibitors, buyers and visitors. (Photo: Business Wire)

Past CIIEs Saw Active Participation of Global Brands

"Thanks to the CIIE, we have improved our grasp of the potential of the Chinese market and developed stronger relationships with Chinese manufacturers, suppliers and customers," said Daryl Lean, former VP of sales at KION Group.

Over the years, companies from 173 countries have participated in the CIIE, generating over $420 billion in transactions and debuting nearly 2,500 new products, technologies, and services.

INAC-Instituto Nacional de Carnes has showcased Uruguayan meat products at the expo for six years. In 2023, visitors sampled premium rib-eye steak and beef fillet. "There are many importers and distributors at the annual trade fair, with which we can communicate face-to-face and enhance trade cooperation," said Josefina Valenti, marketing manager at INAC.

In 2023, 72 countries showcased their achievements in science, technology, culture, and art at the Country Exhibition. "The CIIE is an excellent platform for foreign investors to learn about China, and vice versa," said Huseyin Emre Engin, consul general of Turkiye in Shanghai.

Hongqiao Forum Spotlights Global Issues

The sixth Hongqiao Forum in 2023 had over 8,000 attendees and featured 22 subforums on topics like financial reform and green investment.

Organizers have held symposiums and salons, inviting UN representatives, government officials, and scholars to contribute to this year's themes.

In early May, a briefing on promoting South-South cooperation and sustainable development was held at the UN headquarters. The CIIE and Hongqiao Forum are committed to enhancing South-South trade, with more insights to be presented at this year's expo.

Greater Participation Encouraged at CIIE 2024

The seventh CIIE will launch global roadshows in Turkiye, Uruguay, Peru, Spain, Sweden, and Germany from late May to early June. "Over 280,000 square meters of the exhibition area for CIIE 2024 has already been booked," said Sun Chenghai, deputy director-general of the CIIE Bureau. "We expect more global brands to join us and reap strong returns."

Secure your spot now at: https://www.ciie.org/exhibition/f/book/register?locale=en&from=press

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524984363/en/

Contacts:

Contact:Ms. Cui Yan

Tel.:0086-21-968888

Email:exhibition@ciie.org

Website:http://www.ciie.org/zbh/en/

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The event, seen as the powerhouse of live production and broadcasting, also announced the launch of the 'See No Limits' education series to support the industry

Canon's global brand ambassadors shared their best practices with the audience from GCC and Turkey and equip them with the latest innovations

DUBAI, UAE, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Canon Middle East & Turkiye hosted its 'See No Limits' live show in Dubai, showcasing its cutting-edge capabilities in live production, broadcasting, and remote operation. The event, a first in the region, marked the official launch of this campaign. 'See No Limits' is a promise to Canon customers of an epic imaging ecosystem that delivers the best from high quality video productions with seamless workflows across its products and post-production environments.

As per Business Markets Insights, the MEA broadcast infrastructure market is expected to grow from US$ 449.35 million in 2021 to US$ 698.32 million by 2028. It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2021 to 2028.

The 'See No Limits' event provided attendees a unique opportunity to witness the prowess of Canon's imaging solutions, ranging from its Multi-Cam Solution using Canon's ecosystem of PTZ, Cinema, and ENG cameras, remote operation and live broadcasting solutions like the Canon PTZ cameras, and live streaming and podcast solutions using Canon PTZ and ML systems, in action.

Commenting on this rapidly transforming industry, Binoj Nair, B2C Business Unit Director at Canon Middle East & Turkiye, said, "The live production and broadcast landscape is undergoing significant changes. Consumers' demand for better-quality video and audio has driven rapid upgrades in broadcast equipment and technology. With content now produced in 4K, live-production technology must evolve in order to ensure enhanced viewing quality. Technological advancements have pushed broadcasters to offer Ultra high-definition output, fueling market growth."

The broadcast industry is currently witnessing a significant demand for new broadcasting technologies such as IPTV, web TV, high-definition television, and pay-per-view. The demand for enriched video experiences is expected to pave the way for broadcasters across the region.

"With the evolution of technology, we have also seen rapid changes to how we create and experience content. As a global leader in imaging solutions, we at Canon are well-positioned to offer our clients innovative imaging solutions catering to their diverse needs. The 'See No Limits' campaign and event marked a significant milestone for us in the Middle East, offering a platform to showcase our industry-leading products and forge stronger connections with our customers and partners. We look forward to enabling our clients in the region to redefine the boundaries of content creation through our imaging solutions," added Binoj.

Canon brought three distinguished industry experts to the event to share their knowledge and global best practices. Sebastien Devaud, visiting from France, was renowned for his work with major broadcasters such as M6, France TV, Canal+, and MTV, and for creating and producing TV commercials, titles, and campaigns for multinational brands. Abdulaziz Alsorayai, another Canon ambassador, specialized in creating stunning imagery for food and beverage companies, transitioning from photography to becoming an industry expert in video. Hasan, who transitioned from genetics to photography, showcased his work in exhibitions across Egypt, Canada, and Ecuador, with his work being featured in media outlets such as CNN and BBC Arabic.

In line with Canon's commitment to empowering the end users of their products, the company also introduced its 'See No Limit' education series at the event. The series will comprise 20 educational episodes hosted by Canon Ambassadors, showcasing the varied capabilities of Canon's professional range of cameras.

Canon's 'See No Limits' event saw clients from the UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Turkey in attendance, representing a wide range of industries such as broadcast, production, rental, education, corporate, hospitality, security, and government. The event featured live demonstrations, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities, highlighting Canon's commitment to driving innovation in content creation.

The See No Limits showcases the seamless integration of Canon eco-system live in action across various application with multi-cam solutions, live streaming and remote operations using - Canon PTZ cameras, Cinema & ENG Professional Video Cameras, Canon's ML system and state-of-art optics with the cine lenses.

"Canon has consistently been launching new products each year and the See No Limits proposition aligns with Canon's long-term roadmap by reinforcing innovation and customer-centric solutions. This event is not only revolutionize the imaging industry, but also deliver on business and consumer needs," concluded Binoj.

About Canon Middle East

Canon Middle East, a subsidiary of Canon Europe, is the operational headquarters for Canon in the Middle East based in Dubai, UAE.

Founded in 1937, the desire to continuously innovate has kept Canon at the forefront of imaging excellence throughout its 80-year history with its commitments to invest in the right areas and capture growth opportunities. From cameras to commercial printers, and business consultancy to healthcare technologies, Canon enriches lives and businesses through imaging innovation. Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei - 'living and working together for the common good'. In EMEA, Canon Europe pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services.

Canon invests heavily in R&D, delivering the richest and most innovative products and services to satisfy customers' creative needs. From amateur photographers to professional print companies, Canon enables each customer to realise their own passion for image. Further information about Canon Middle East is available at www.canon-me.com

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CHICAGO, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "PFAS Filtration Market by Technology (Water Treatment Systems, Water Treatment Chemicals), Place of Treatment (In-Situ, Ex-Situ), Remediation Technology, Environmental Medium, Contaminant Type, and Region - Global Forecast to 2029", is projected to reach USD 2.8. billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 7.1% from USD 2.0 billion in 2024.

The PFAS filtration market is driven by several factors, including technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, favorable economic conditions, expanding applications in various industries, and growing demand. The increasing use of PFAS filtration in various end-use industries, such as chemical, oil & gas, semiconductor is a significant driver for market growth.

Browse in-depth TOC on "PFAS Filtration Market"

210 - Tables

78 - Figures

243 - Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=98118970

"RO membrane and nanofiltration is projected to be the fastest growing remediation technology type of PFAS filtration, in terms of value, during the forecast period."

Nanofiltration (NF) and Reverse Osmosis (RO) membranes are pivotal in the remediation of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from water sources. NF membranes operate on the principle of size exclusion and charge interactions, effectively removing PFAS based on their molecular size and charge characteristics. This technology is particularly adept at treating water with lower PFAS concentrations and offers advantages such as lower energy consumption and selective removal of divalent ions. In contrast, RO membranes utilize high pressure to force water through a semipermeable membrane with very small pores, achieving exceptional removal efficiencies for PFAS, often exceeding 99%. However, RO systems require significant energy inputs due to the pressure needed to overcome osmotic forces. Both NF and RO technologies are critical in addressing PFAS contamination, providing robust solutions for ensuring water quality and meeting regulatory standards in various industrial and municipal applications.

"Industrial PFAS treatment is the fastest growing end-use industry of the PFAS filtration, in terms of value."

The treatment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in industrial wastewater is essential across diverse sectors such as chemical manufacturing, oil and gas extraction, pharmaceutical production, and mining operations. These industries encounter PFAS contamination from various sources, including manufacturing processes, product formulations, and equipment maintenance. To mitigate environmental impact and adhere to regulatory standards, industrial facilities employ advanced treatment technologies. Common methods include activated carbon filtration, which effectively adsorbs PFAS compounds from water, and ion exchange resins that swap PFAS ions for less harmful substances. Additionally, membrane filtration and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) like UV oxidation or ozonation are utilized to degrade or separate PFAS molecules.

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"North America captures the largest share in the PFAS filtration market during the forecast period, in terms of value."

North America's dominant position in PFAS filtration stems from several key factors. The region hosts a substantial number of industries historically reliant on PFAS, such as chemical manufacturing, electronics, and aerospace, which generate significant volumes of contaminated wastewater. Stringent environmental regulations in countries like the United States and Canada impose strict limits on PFAS discharge, compelling industries to invest in advanced filtration technologies to achieve compliance. Moreover, North America boasts a robust market for environmental technologies, fostering continuous innovation in PFAS filtration methods. This combination of industrial demand, regulatory pressure, and technological advancement ensures that North America remains a leader in addressing PFAS contamination, striving to safeguard water quality and public health effectively.

Key Players

Acquisitions, new product launches and partnership are the major growth strategies adopted by the key players in the market. The key global players in the PFAS filtration market include Veolia (France), AECOM (US), WSP (Canada), Clean Earth (US), Wood (UK), Xylem (US), Jacobs (US), TRC Companies, Inc. (US), Battelle Memorial Institute (US), Cyclopure, Inc. (US)

Browse Adjacent Market: Membranes Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Flocculant & Coagulant Market - Global Forecast to 2028

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Guavapay, a global fintech company has announced its partnership with Visa, a world leader in digital payments, to launch an impactful Out Of Home (OOH) campaign across London. This collaboration aims to enhance awareness of MyGuava multicurrency Visa Card for users of MyGuava App and MyGuava Business, the flagship products of Guavapay.

The campaign is primarily targeting the digitally savvy Gen Z and Millennial demographics for MyGuava App, and small retailers for MyGuava Business. It seeks to demonstrate that MyGuava users can enjoy a more rewarding and accessible experience in various life scenarios, aligning with diverse lifestyles and business needs.

The MyGuava App is an All-Things-Payment platform that is designed to cater to the demand for an all-encompassing solution conveniently: from local to global payments, card transactions with MyGuava card, seamless card purchases, shared and social payments, to advanced features for managing spending and savings. MyGuava is committed to fostering financial inclusion and continues to develop its product to be a secure, accessible, convenient, and affordable financial management solution tailored to diverse lifestyles and needs.

MyGuava Business is tailored to meet the financial requirements of modern businesses of all sizes. With a wide range of features including multicurrency accounts, POS terminals and payment gateway solutions, it aims to boost efficiency and streamline local and cross-border transactions. This 3-in-1 approach helps MyGuava Business facilitate all business payment needs, whether it is day-to-day funds management, taking payments in-store via card reader or digitally through an e-commerce integration.

Kamal Hasanov, CEO of Guavapay, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "Our collaboration with Visa marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide comprehensive and inclusive financial solutions. Through this campaign, our objective is to raise awareness among individuals and businesses, emphasising their ability to access a convenient, secure financial management and payment solution, all while ensuring affordability."

Mark Berry, Head of UK Clients, Visa: "We are excited to join forces with GuavaPay to launch this Out Of Home campaign in London. Our collaboration reflects our shared vision to provide innovative payment solutions that meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses. By leveraging our combined expertise and resources, we are confident that we can deliver a seamless, secure, and rewarding payment experience to our customers. We look forward to working closely with MyGuava to drive greater financial inclusion and empower people to achieve their financial goals."

To access the benefits of MyGuava App, download it from the Apple Store or Google Play. For further details on partnering with MyGuava for business purposes, please email their team at partners@guavapay.com.

Guavapay Limited is a company registered in England with company number 10601900 with its registered address at Salisbury House, 29 Finsbury Circus, London, EC2M 5QQ, United Kingdom. Guavapay Limited is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom as a Small Electronic Money Institution with reference number 900888. Guavapay Limited's ICO registration number is ZA274504.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524204566/en/

Contacts:

Arzu Nasibova

PR and Marketing Manager

arzu.nasib@guavapay.com
Information Office of Maoming Municipal Government

MAOMING, China, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On May 21-23, the "Chinese Culture Tour" media delegation, consisting of journalists and photographers from internationally renowned outlets visited Maoming, a coastal city known for its lychees. They focused their lenses on the vibrant development of Maoming.



Maoming is known as the "Hometown of Lychees in China". The people of Maoming have loved and cultivated lychees for over 2,000 years. To gain a deeper understanding of lychee culture, the media delegation visited the ancient lychee orchard in Baiqiao Village which is referred to as a "living museum" of lychees. "The ancient lychee trees here have endured centuries of weather but remain vibrant and fruitful," The relevant person in charge of the Information Office of the Maoming Municipal Government said, who guided the tour.

Outside the China Lychee Exhibition Hall, both domestic and international journalists experienced the intangible cultural heritage of Gaozhou woodcut art. The creation of Gaozhou woodcuts uses knives instead of brushes, with precise techniques akin to calligraphy. Each cut is deliberate and fine, making it a significant intangible cultural heritage of Chinese culture.

Maoming is a coastal city that ingeniously utilizes its unique coastal ecological resources and Danjia culture to create a new model for rural revitalization that integrates fishing, industry, culture, and tourism -- the Danjia Market. This market highlights various cultural themes, such as Madam Xian culture, Li ethnic culture, Danjia culture, and maritime trade culture, showcasing Maoming's traditional "chenshi" (market) culture. The Danjia Market is not only a tourist destination but also a model for integrated industrial development.

Maoming was born from, prospered by, and became famous for its oil. The mine ecological park has taken shape located on the origin spot where the oil stone was dug. The park now gradually showcases a landscape of rippling waters, verdant greenery, blooming flowers, chirping birds, cultural gatherings, and bustling tourists enjoying leisure activities. "In the sunlight, the east side of the lake looks like a blue sapphire. It's hard to imagine what an amazing butterfly transformation it has undergone to it," said Rafael Saavedra, a vlogger from Venezuela.

Visiting along Petrochemical Tower in Sinopec (Maoming) Chemical Co., Ltd, everyone was interested in the ecological pool at the sewage treatment site of the ethylene plant, and touched the changes of "green and low-carbon" development.

Dianbai District in Maoming is known as the "Hometown of Agarwood in China", with a 1,500-year history of agarwood harvesting and processing. The annual output value is nearly 4 billion yuan, and the products are exported to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the Americas, and other regions. Foreign friends strolled through the Shadong Agarwood Market, lingered in the Agarwood Museum, experienced incense making, with tranquility and concentration, ingenuity and ingenuity, and experienced the beauty of oriental culture.

Source: Information Office of Maoming Municipal Government
STOCKHOLM, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A pioneering study, presented today at the 61st ERA Congress, has demonstrated that semaglutide significantly reduces the risk of major kidney disease events, cardiovascular outcomes, and all-cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

The FLOW (Evaluate Renal Function with Semaglutide Once Weekly) study is a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled international trial comprising 3,533 patients, with a median follow-up period of 3.4 years. The trial was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of semaglutide, a once-weekly subcutaneous glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, in preventing major kidney outcomes, specifically kidney failure, substantial loss of kidney function, and death from kidney or cardiovascular causes, in individuals with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Patients either received semaglutide 1.0 mg once weekly or placebo.

Participants who received semaglutide had a 24% risk reduction for the composite primary endpoint, including kidney outcomes and death due to cardiovascular and kidney causes, compared to those who received placebo. This reduction risk was consistent across both kidney-specific and cardiovascular death outcomes.

Secondary endpoints also showed significant improvements with semaglutide. The total eGFR slope was 1.16 ml/min/1.73m2/year slower, the risk of major cardiovascular events was decreased by 18%, and the risk of all-cause mortality was reduced by 20%.

Professor Vlado Perkovic commented, "The use of semaglutide in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease can lower the risk of major kidney outcomes and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, cardiovascular death and all-cause death. These benefits signify a profound clinical impact saving kidneys, hearts and lives, for patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Additionally, the reassuring safety findings further support the strong potential value of semaglutide in this population."

Chronic kidney disease affects over 800 million people worldwide and is particularly prevalent among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Chronic kidney disease poses a significant risk of kidney failure, cardiovascular events and death, highlighting the critical need for research into its prevention and treatment.

The FLOW trial was overseen by an academic-led Steering Committee, in partnership with the study sponsor, Novo Nordisk, which also managed trial operations. The study is being published today in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the 61st ERA Congress in Stockholm, Sweden.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/61st-era-congress-semaglutide-significantly-reduces-risk-of-major-kidney-disease-events-cardiovascular-outcomes-and-mortality-in-patients-with-type-2-diabetes-and-chronic-kidney-disease-groundbreaking-study-reveals-302152722.html
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

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 24, 2024) - Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd. (TSXV: SPA) (FSE: S3Y) (the "Company" or "Spanish Mountain Gold") is pleased to announce it has partnered with international technology group ANDRITZ and BC Hydro (the province's utility company) to reduce the carbon intensity of its proposed Spanish Mountain Gold project in the Cariboo Gold Corridor near Likely, BC, Canada.

With the goal of building the most sustainable gold mine in Canada, Spanish Mountain Gold will use ANDRITZ's simulation software for process optimization, energy management, and operator training.

Peter Mah, Spanish Mountain Gold's President, CEO and Director comments, "We are very excited to partner with ANDRITZ, a leading international technology company, who shares the same values on sustainability as Spanish Mountain Gold. Through this partnership, our aim is to redefine the mining industry's approach to energy generation, consumption, and environmental responsibility by lowering carbon intensity to ensure we build the greenest gold processing facility in the industry."

Graham Ethier, Vice President Digital Products and Solutions for Mining and Mineral Processing at ANDRITZ in Canada, said, "We are very excited to be working with Spanish Mountain Gold on this project. The use of our technologies will help to reduce energy demand and drive positive changes in industry sustainability."

ANDRITZ's proprietary IDEAS simulation software will enable Spanish Mountain Gold to analyze energy consumption for greenfield operations, optimize process flowsheets, and predict power demand accurately. This proactive approach is crucial for balancing long-term supply and demand curves effectively. Similarly, it can be used to accurately support water management programs.

In addition, Spanish Mountain Gold envisions using the IDEAS simulation software to train local operators, supporting employment in the region. Trainees can learn the operation using a digital twin ahead of workforce recruitment and once employed at an operation, can continuously improve how processes are controlled.

By harnessing simulation technology, Spanish Mountain Gold aims to achieve sustainable gold mining while creating opportunities for local communities through skills development and employment.

ANDRITZ GROUP

International technology group ANDRITZ offers a broad portfolio of innovative plants, equipment, systems, services and digital solutions for a wide range of industries and end markets. Sustainability is an integral part of the company's business strategy and corporate culture. With its extensive portfolio of sustainable products and solutions, ANDRITZ aims to make the greatest possible contribution to a sustainable future and help its customers achieve their sustainability goals. ANDRITZ is a global market leader in all four of its business areas - Pulp & Paper, Metals, Hydro and Separation. Technological leadership and global presence are cornerstones of the group's strategy, which is focused on long-term profitable growth. The publicly listed group has around 30,000 employees and over 280 locations in more than 40 countries.

About Spanish Mountain Gold

Spanish Mountain Gold is advancing its 100% owned Spanish Mountain Gold project towards construction of the next gold mine in the Cariboo Gold Corridor, British Columbia. Our immediate focus is to conduct an integrated Whittle Enterprise Optimization to identify the highest potential value-add improvements while increasing the understanding of the high-grade geologic controls and associated drill targets that could upgrade and expand the gold resource. We are striving to be a leader in community and indigenous relations by leveraging technology and innovation to build the 'greenest' gold mine in Canada. The Relentless Pursuit for Better Gold means seeking new ways to achieve optimal financial outcomes that are safer, minimizes environmental impacts and creates meaningful sustainability for communities. Details on the Company are available on www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website: www.spanishmountaingold.com.

On Behalf of the Board,

"Peter Mah"

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd.

For more information, contact:

Peter Mah, CEO

(604) 601-3651

info@spanishmountaingold.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Certain of the statements and information in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" Any statements or information that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "estimates", "intends", "targets", "goals", "forecasts", "objectives", "potential" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements or information. The Company's forward-looking statements and information are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management as of the date of this press release, and other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements and information if circumstances or management's assumptions, beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, or changes in any other events affecting such statements or information. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements and information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/210327

SOURCE: Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 24, 2024) - Golden Share Resources Corporation (TSXV: GSH) ("Golden Share" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an option agreement with Delta Resources Limited (TSXV: DLTA) (OTCBB: DTARF) (FSE: 6G01) ("Delta"), in which the Company has granted an option to Delta to earn a 100% interest in the Band-Ore property (the "Property" or "Band-Ore"). The Property is located west of Thunder Bay, Ontario and hosts two historic high-grade gold resources (the resources of which are not considered National Instrument 43-101 compliant, nor is the Company treating them as such).

Table 1: Band-Ore Historic Mineral Resources



Tonnes Average Grade Ounces Band-Ore Main Zone 706,000 6.86 g/t 155,728 Band-Ore Zone No. 4 616,000 4.84 g/t 95,668

The 10 km long property covers approximately 2,115 hectares and comprises 16 patented mining claims, one mining claim lease, and 109 staked mining claims in Hagey and Conacher Townships of Ontario, on strike with the Delta-1 gold mineralization. Both the Main Zone and the No. 4 Zone are open at depth and along strike.

Wes Roberts, CEO of Golden Share, commented, "We are very pleased to have Andre Tessier, an experienced exploration specialist, and the geological team at Delta take charge of the Band-Ore exploration program. In addition, we welcome Delta's efforts to consolidate the Shebandowan greenstone belt and obvious synergies it will generate for our collective stakeholders."

Agreement Details: In order to acquire a 100% interest in the Property, the Company is required to make aggregate cash and security payments to Golden Share in the amount of $2,000,000 as below:

On signing: $100,000 in cash Anniversary 1: $150,000 in cash and $100,000 in Delta shares Anniversary 2: $150,000 in cash and $100,000 in Delta shares Anniversary 3: $200,000 in cash and $100,000 in Delta shares Anniversary 4: $300,000 in cash and $200,000 in Delta shares Anniversary 5: $400,000 in cash and $200,000 in Delta shares *All share prices are based on 20 day VWAP.



Golden Share will retain a 2% Net Smelter Return Royalty ("NSR"). Delta will have the option to buyback a 1.0% NSR at anytime for $3M and will have a right of first refusal on the second 1.0% NSR.

If Delta defines a NI-43-101 mineral resource on the property after earn-in, Golden Share will be entitled to a bonus of $500,000 for an estimate of 500,000 gold ounces contained up to 1,000,000 ounces and a bonus of $1,000,000 for an estimate of greater than 1,000,000 contained gold ounces. There are no work commitments on the property.

The agreement is subject to regulatory approval.

Qualified Persons

The technical content disclosed in this press release was reviewed and approved by Wes Roberts, P. Eng., a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101.

About Golden Share

Golden Share Resources Corporation is a mineral exploration company focusing on the province of Ontario, Canada, a mineral rich and politically stable jurisdiction.

WARNING: Certain statements in this press release may be forward-looking, including those with respect to the timing and content of up-coming work programs, geological interpretations, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. The Company relies upon litigation protection for forward-looking statements. The reader is warned against undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

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 more information, please visit www.goldenshare.ca or contact:

Golden Share Resources Corporation

Wes Roberts, P.Eng. CEO

E-mail: info@goldenshare.ca

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/210364

SOURCE: Golden Share Resources Corporation
New data draws upon ongoing research to highlight MammaPrint BluePrint utility in early-stage breast cancer treatment planning.

Agendia, Inc., announced today that new data on its comprehensive genomic tests will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting (ASCO), taking place May 31st June 4th, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois.

The presented data underscores Agendia's commitment to advancing individualized management of breast cancer and to providing support throughout a patient's treatment journey. These studies add to the already robust library of clinical studies demonstrating Agendia's MammaPrint and BluePrint effectiveness in providing reliable guidance for therapeutic considerations in early-stage breast cancer.

The two abstracts that have been selected by ASCO for oral discussion will 1) feature an investigation of underlying biology that mediates immune therapy response and, 2) will provide an evaluation of the MammaPrint Index and 3-year recurrence-free interval in patients treated with CT, with and without anthracycline. Both presentations utilize whole transcriptome data from the prospective, observational real-word evidence FLEX Study (NCT03053193).

The following are details of the abstracts that have been accepted at the ASCO 2024 Annual Meeting:

Oral Discussion

Association of MammaPrint index and 3-year outcome of patients with HR+HER2- early-stage breast cancer treated with chemotherapy with or without anthracycline

Authors: O'Shaughnessy, J., et al.

Presenter: Joyce O'Shaughnessy, MD Baylor-Sammons Cancer Center, Texas Oncology

Session: Rapid Oral Abstract Breast Cancer Local/Regional/Adjuvant

Poster Discussion: Friday, May 31, 2024 2:45 PM 4:15 PM CDT

Abstract #: 511



Elucidating the immune active state of HR+HER2- MammaPrint High 2 early breast cancer

Authors: Cobain, E., et al.

Presenter: Erin Cobain, MD University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center

Session: Oral Abstract Session Breast Cancer Local/Regional/Adjuvant

Poster Discussion: Monday, June 3, 2024 3:00 PM 6:00 PM CDT

Abstract #: 506



Poster sessions

Cost consequence model of the MammaPrint (70-gene signature) and 21-gene signature in patients with primary HR+ HER2-, N1 early-stage breast cancer in Germany

Authors: Lux M.P., Sandor M. F., Hofmann V., Pronin D., Klinkhamer J.C., Muller-Huesmann H.

Presenter: Harald Muller-Huesmann St. Josef Brothers Hospital Paderborn, Germany

Session Date Time: Sunday, June 2, 2024 9:00 AM 12:00 PM CDT

Abstract #: 534



Other Investigator Initiated Abstracts Utilizing MammaPrint BluePrint:

Correlation of hormone receptor positive HER2-negative/MammaPrint high-2 breast cancer with triple negative breast cancer: Results from gene expression data from the ISPY2 trial.

Authors: Alejandro Rios-Hoyo; Lajos Pusztai

Session Date Time: Sunday, 2, 2024 9:00AM-12:00PM CDT

Abstract #: 573



Genomic profile in Mexican women with early-stage breast cancer using Mammaprint Blueprint assay: A retrospective study

Authors: Valdez, et al.

Abstract #: e12541



More information about the program can be found at the ASCO 2024 website.

About Agendia

Agendia is a leading provider of innovative solutions in the field of precision oncology. With a focus on early-stage breast cancer, Agendia offers reliable biological insights that inform personalized treatment decisions for patients and their care teams. Their advanced genomic assays, MammaPrint BluePrint, enable clinicians to quickly identify the most effective treatment plan, minimizing the risk of both under- and over-treatment.

Founded in 2003 in Amsterdam, Agendia is headquartered in Irvine, California with a state-of-the-art laboratory facility. Led by world-renowned scientists and oncologists, Agendia is committed to advancing genomic insights through ongoing research. This includes the notable FLEX Study- the world's largest whole transcriptome Real-World Evidence-based Breast Cancer database which aims to revolutionize precision in breast cancer management. With cutting-edge technology, research and innovation, Agendia strives to shape the future of precision oncology and make a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer.

About MammaPrint

MammaPrint is a gene expression profiling test that reveals the distinct underlying biology of an early-stage tumor to determine its risk of spreading. As the only FDA-cleared gene expression profiling test to assess a woman's risk of distant metastasis, MammaPrint provides critical answers that help inform the future of her treatment plan at the point of diagnosis, including the timing and benefit to chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. MammaPrint listens to the signals from 70 key genes in a woman's tumor to stratify her risk within four distinct categories ranging from UltraLow, Low, High 1, and High 2- to fuel a right-sized care plan tailored to her biology and her life's plans.

About BluePrint

BluePrint is a gene expression profiling test that reveals the driving forces behind a tumor's growth at the earliest stage possible in a woman's breast cancer care journey to help optimize and personalize treatment planning. As the only molecular subtyping test available in the U.S., BluePrint goes where pathology cannot, offers critical insights that providers may otherwise have not known to act on, and gives women the best chance to return to a life not defined by cancer. BluePrint measures the activity of 80 key genes that are involved in a tumor's growth to classify a tumor as Luminal-type, HER2-type, or Basal-type, each of which warrant distinct treatment pathways. By revealing the distinct underlying biology of a woman's tumor, BluePrint can catch often misclassified, yet highly aggressive, Basal tumors, so women can be prescribed the most appropriate treatment from the start.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524812909/en/

Contacts:

Media

Terri Clevenger

ICR Westwicke Healthcare PR

Tel: 203.682.8297

Terri.Clevenger@Westwicke.com
ADLER Group S.A.

Societe anonyme Siege social: 55, Allee Scheffer, L-2520 Luxembourg RCS Luxembourg: B197554 CONVENING NOTICE The shareholders of ADLER Group SA (the "Company") are invited to participate in the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the "AGM" or the "Annual General Meeting") to be held on Tuesday, 25 June 2024 at 10.00 a.m. CEST at Legere Hotel Luxembourg, 11, rue

Gabriel Lippmann, Parc d'Activite Syrdall, L-5365 Munsbach in order to deliberate on the items of the agenda set out below.PARTICIPATION TO THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MUST BE CONFIRMED BY

MIDNIGHT CEST ON TUESDAY, 11 JUNE 2024.SHAREHOLDING CONFIRMATIONS AND PARTICIPATION, PROXY AND VOTING FORMS

MUST BE PROVIDED BY MIDNIGHT CEST ON THURSDAY, 20 JUNE 2024.QUESTIONS FROM SHAREHOLDERS RELATED TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA SHOULD BE

RECEIVED BY MIDNIGHT CEST ON THURSDAY, 20 JUNE 2024. Listed shares International Securities Identification number (ISIN): LU1250154413AGENDA AND PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS OF THE AGM 1. Presentation of the special report of the board of directors of the Company (as required pursuant to Article 441-7 of the Luxembourg law of 10 August 1915 on commercial companies, as amended) on any transaction, since the last general meeting of the Company, in respect of which any of the directors declared to have an interest conflicting with that of the Company. No resolution required. 2. Presentation of the combined management report of the board of directors of the Company in respect of the unaudited standalone annual accounts of the Company and the unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its group for the financial year ending 31 December 2023. No resolution required. Comment of the board of directors: In last year's annual general meeting, we explained why we were unable to present audited standalone annual accounts and audited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the financial year ended 31 December 2022. On 27 November 2023, the general meeting of the Company approved the appointment of AVEGA Revision S.a r.l. as statutory auditor (reviseur d'entreprises agree) for the standalone annual accounts and the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the financial years 2022 and 2023. AVEGA Revision S.a r.l. will be supported by three other audit firms in respect of three audit sub-areas relevant to the Group (component audit). The audit work on the standalone annual accounts and audited consolidated financial statements for the financial years ending 31 December 2022 and 31 December 2023 has not yet been finalised. The Company envisages that audited standalone annual accounts and audited consolidated financial statements for the financial years ending 31 December 2022 and 31 December 2023 will be available by 30 September 2024, and these would be submitted to the general meeting for approval as soon as practicable thereafter. 3. Approval of the unaudited standalone annual accounts of the Company for the financial year ending 31 December 2023. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution I) The Annual General Meeting, after having reviewed the management report of the board of directors of the Company, approves the unaudited standalone annual accounts for the financial year ending 31 December 2023 in their entirety. 4. Approval of the unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its group for the financial year ending 31 December 2023. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution II) The Annual General Meeting, after having reviewed the management report of the board of directors of the Company, approves the unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its group for the financial year ending 31 December 2023 in their entirety. 5. Approval of the allocation of the statutory financial results for the financial year ending 31 December 2023. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution III) The Annual General Meeting, upon proposal of the board of directors of the Company, resolves to carry forward a loss of EUR 870,339,729 according to the unaudited standalone annual accounts of the Company, to the next financial year. 6. Approval of the granting of discharge (quitus) to all directors who held office during the financial year ending 31 December 2023 in respect of the performance of their duties during that financial year. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution IV) The Annual General Meeting resolves to grant discharge (quitus) to all directors who held office during the financial year ending 31 December 2023 in respect of the performance of their duties during that financial year. 7. Acknowledgement of the resignation of Mr. Thomas Zinnocker and Dr. Heiner Arnoldi, as directors of the Company effective as of the date of this AGM. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution V) The Annual General Meeting acknowledges the resignation of Mr. Thomas Zinnocker and Dr. Heiner Arnoldi as directors of the Company effective as of the date of this AGM. 8. Approval of the appointment of Mr. Matthias Moser as director of the Company for a period running from the date of this AGM until the annual general meeting to take place in the year 2026. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution VI) The Annual General Meeting approves the appointment of Mr. Matthias Moser as director of the Company for a period running from the date of this AGM until the annual general meeting to take place in the year 2026. Comment of the board of directors: The Board is pleased to propose Mr. Moser, an experienced practitioner with a strong background in finance, sale strategy and restructuring, for a director position of the Company. We are confident that the experience he brings with him will be an ideal addition to our Company, in particular for our current needs and objectives as the company navigates through this challenging period. 9. Approval (on an advisory and non-binding basis) of the remuneration report of the Company for the financial year ending 31 December 2023. Draft resolution (AGM Resolution VII) The Annual General Meeting approves on an advisory non-binding basis the remuneration report of the Company for the financial year ending 31 December 2023 in its entirety. I. AVAILABLE INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION The following information is available on the Company's website https://ir.adler-group.com

in the segment "Corporate Governance" > "General Meeting" > "General Meeting 2024" and at the Company's registered office in Luxembourg as from a date no later than the date of publication of the convening notice in the Luxembourg Official Gazette (Recueil Electronique des Societes et Associations) and in the Luxembourg newspaper Tageblatt:-  this convening notice for the AGM (which includes draft resolutions in relation to the above agenda points to be adopted at the AGM);  the total number of shares and voting rights as at the date of this convening notice;  the participation, proxy and voting form for the AGM (the "AGM Participation, Proxy and Voting Form" or the "AGM PPV Form");  the full text of any document to be made available by the Company at the AGM including:-  the special report of the board of directors of the Company (as required pursuant to Article 441-7 of the Luxembourg law of 10 August 1915 on commercial companies, as amended);  the unaudited standalone annual accounts of the Company for the financial year ending 31 December 2023;  the unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its group for the financial year ending 31 December 2023;  the combined management report of the board of directors of the Company in respect of the unaudited standalone annual accounts of the Company and the unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its group for the financial year ending 31 December 2023;  the curriculum vitae of Mr. Matthias Moser; and  the remuneration report of the Company for the financial year ending 31 December 2023.

Shareholders may obtain a copy of the full text of any document to be made available by the Company at the AGM and the draft resolution proposed to be adopted by the AGM upon request by post (see contact details in Section VII below) or by e-mail to anmeldestelle@computershare.de to Computershare Deutschland GmbH & Co KG, in its capacity as mandated agent of the Company ("Computershare"). II. QUORUM AND VOTING The AGM will validly deliberate on its agenda regardless of the number of shareholders present or of the number of shares represented. Resolutions relating to these agenda items will be adopted by a simple majority of the votes validly cast by shareholders present or represented. Each share is entitled to one vote. III. ISSUED SHARE CAPITAL, TOTAL NUMBER OF SHARES AND VOTING RIGHTS On the date of publication of this convening notice: (i) the issued share capital of the Company amounts to EUR 188,016.37; (ii) the total number of shares composing the share capital of the Company is 151,626,107 dematerialised shares without a nominal value, and (iii) the total number of voting rights attached to the shares composing the share capital of the Company is 151,626,107 voting rights. IV. RIGHT OF SHAREHOLDERS TO ADD ITEMS TO THE AGENDA

OR TO TABLE ALTERNATIVE RESOLUTIONS Shareholders holding individually or collectively at least 5% of the issued share capital of the Company have the right (a) to add new items on the agenda of the AGM and/or (b) to table draft resolutions regarding items included or to be included in the agenda of the AGM. Such requests must be in writing and sent to Computershare by post (see contact details in Section VII below) or by e-mail to anmeldestelle@computershare.de. They must be accompanied by a justification or a draft resolution to be adopted at the AGM. They must also indicate the postal or electronic address at which the Company or Computershare (as the Company's agent) may acknowledge receipt of these requests. The requests must be accompanied by proof (in the form of a certificate issued by the bank, the custodian, professional securities' depositary or the financial institution where the shares are on deposit) that the shareholder(s) hold the required number of shares on the date of the request (i.e. at least 5%). The new agenda points/draft resolutions will only be considered by the AGM if the requesting shareholder(s) holds the requisite number of shares also on the Record Date (as defined below). Any such request and accompanying documents from shareholders must be received by Computershare (in the manner as described above), not later than the 22nd day before the AGM (i.e. not later than Monday, 3 June 2024). The Company or Computershare as the Company's agent, shall acknowledge receipt of any such requests within 48 hours of receipt. The Company shall publish a revised agenda at the latest on the 15th day before the AGM (i.e. by Monday, 10 June 2024). V. RIGHT TO ASK QUESTIONS Every shareholder has the right to ask questions concerning items on the agenda of the AGM. The Company will respond to such questions on a best efforts basis subject to the measures which it may take to ensure the identification of shareholders, the good order of the AGM and its preparation and the protection of confidentiality and the Company's business interests. The Company may provide one overall answer to questions having the same content. Where the relevant information is available on the Company's website in a question and answer format, the Company shall be deemed to have answered the questions asked by referring to its website. For the sake of the good order of the AGM and to facilitate the Company providing comprehensive answers to questions raised, questions of shareholders concerning items on the agenda of the AGM, should be received by Computershare by midnight (24:00 CEST) on Thursday, 20 June 2024 by post (see contact details in Section VII below) or by e-mail to anmeldestelle@computershare.de. Answers will be provided by the Company either during the AGM (as applicable) or on the Company's website in a question and answer format. VI. PARTICIPATION TO THE AGM The rights of shareholders to participate at the AGM and exercise voting rights are subject to such shareholders being shareholders of the Company at midnight (24:00) CEST on Tuesday, 11 June 2024 (the "Record Date", i.e. the day falling fourteen (14) days before the date of the AGM). In order to participate in the AGM, a shareholder must:- (i) indicate his/her/its intention to participate in the AGM, as applicable at the latest by 24:00 CEST on Tuesday, 11 June 2024, the Record Date. This confirmation of participation shall be given to Computershare in writing (by e-mail to anmeldestelle@computershare.de or by post (see contact details in Section VII below)) by a shareholder directly or someone on his/her/its behalf; (ii) procure that a Shareholding Confirmation Certificate is received by Computershare at the latest by midnight (24:00 CEST) on Thursday, 20 June 2024. This "Shareholding Confirmation Certificate" must indicate the shareholder's name and the number of Company shares held at midnight, (24:00) CEST on the Record Date. The Shareholding Confirmation Certificate shall be issued by the bank, the professional securities' depositary or the financial institution where the shares are on deposit. A template form can be downloaded from the Company's website https://ir.adler-group.com in the segment "Corporate Governance" > "General Meeting" > "General Meeting 2024"; and (iii) complete and return an AGM PPV Form as described above, depending on whether the shareholder is participating to the AGM:- a. by attendance in person, he/she/it must complete and sign the AGM PPV Form, excluding section 2, 3, 4 and 5 and return that form to Computershare at the latest by midnight (24:00 CEST) on Thursday, 20 June 2024 (together with the Shareholding Confirmation Certificate mentioned above). He/she/it must attend the AGM (as applicable) and identify himself/herself with a valid identification card; or b. by appointing Computershare as proxyholder or another proxyholder of his/her/its choice to exercise his/her/is voting rights as the relevant proxyholder deems fit, he/she/it must complete and sign the AGM PPV Form, excluding section 1, 3, 4 and 5 and return that form to Computershare at the latest by midnight (24:00 CEST) on Thursday, 20 June 2024 (together with the Shareholding Confirmation Certificate mentioned above). A proxy holder must attend the AGM and identify himself/herself with a valid identification card; or c. by appointing Computershare as proxyholder or another proxyholder of his/her/its choice to exercise his/her/is voting rights according to explicit instructions, he/she/it must complete and sign the AGM PPV Form, excluding section 1, 2 and 4 and return that form to Computershare at the latest by midnight (24:00 CEST) on Thursday, 20 June 2024 (together with the Shareholding Confirmation Certificate mentioned above); d. by voting by correspondence, he/she/it must complete and sign the AGM PPV Form, excluding section 1, 2 and 3 and return that form to Computershare at the latest by midnight (24:00 CEST) on Thursday, 20 June 2024 (together with the Shareholding Confirmation Certificate mentioned above).

The AGM PPV Form can be downloaded from the Company's website, https://ir.adler-group.com

in the segment "Corporate Governance" > "General Meeting" > "General Meeting 2024". VII. CONTACT DETAILS COMPUTERSHARE The contact details of Computershare, as the agent duly mandated by the Company to receive confirmations of participation to the AGM and to receive the Shareholding Confirmation Certificates, the Participation, Proxy and Voting Forms, questions on the agenda of the AGM, proposals of additional agenda items and proposed resolutions pursuant to this convening notice are as follows:- ADLER Group S.A. c/o Computershare Operations Center Postal address: 80249 Munchen E-mail: anmeldestelle@computershare.de VIII. PROCESSING OF PERSONAL DATA For information on the processing of personal data in connection with the AGM, we invite you to consult the Company's Data Protection Notice, which can be found on the Company's website, https://ir.adler-group.com

in the segment "Corporate Governance" > "General Meeting" > "General Meeting 2024". Signed on 24 May 2024 The Board of Directors

Stefan Brendgen

(Chairman)
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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SHANGHAI, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SpaceX's Starlink recently officially announced their high-speed internet constellation is now connecting more than 3 million people with high-speed internet across nearly 100 countries, territories, and many other markets.

Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations offer real-time network services to people in extreme environments and areas with underdeveloped infrastructure. As LEO satellite deployments surge globally, commercial aerospace enterprises are becoming key players.

In China, Geespace, a commercial aerospace company under Geely, is constructing and operating Geely Future Mobility Constellation. This constellation has completed the deployment of two orbital planes. The third plane is set to launch in the second half of this year, marking the start of global application services. The fourth plane will feature direct-to-cell satellite communication payloads, serving many existing mobile phones. Geespace plans to complete the first phase of the constellation with 72 satellites within two years, providing global real-time data communication services.

Iridium achieved $203.9 million in total revenue and $19.7 million in net income in the first quarter of 2024. The development history of Iridium highlights two critical challenges in the LEO satellite industry: reducing construction costs and finding a successful business model.

Geespace addresses these challenges in three steps:

Satellite Manufacturing: Geespace leverages Geely's automated assembly technology and mass production management model to create an intelligent, flexible satellite production line. This shortens the satellite's assembly, integration and test (AIT) cycle and reduces production costs by 45%, with an annual production capacity of 500 satellites. Satellite Application: Geespace achieved large-scale applications of satellite communication and satellite-based high-precision positioning in 2023. Several Geely models, including Zeekr and Geely Galaxy, are equipped with Geespace's two-way satellite communication functions. Business Models: Providing global commercial services has become the mainstream trend among companies like SpaceX, Iridium, and Geespace.

In Southeast Asia, Geespace signed an agreement with Malaysian telecom operator Altel to accelerate smart port and smart agriculture solutions. In the Middle East, Geespace partnered with Omani satellite communication company Azyan Telecom to promote the deployment of Geely Future Mobility Constellation's services, including direct-to-cell, in the Middle East and Africa.

With successful precedents like Iridium and SpaceX, Geespace's global expansion is not just strategic but also poised to bring substantial commercial value.

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AM Best will present its latest observed trends in the global reinsurance industry, as well as outline the latest Italy market segment outlook and provide updates related to the IFRS 17 accounting standard in a market briefing on 12 June 2024 in Milan, Italy.

The market briefing will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (CEST) in the Westin Palace Milan, during which senior AM Best analytical leaders will discuss leading issues facing European insurers and reinsurers. Topics will include the 1 April reinsurance renewals and other perspectives on the current reinsurance market, along with the effects of the poly/permacrisis on the insurance market. The factors and decisions leading to companies initiating the credit rating process also will be discussed during the briefing. Presentations will be delivered in Italian, except for the global reinsurance session, which will be in English.

Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. (CEST) with welcome remarks at 10:30 a.m. (CEST). There is no cost to register for the briefing, and a networking lunch will be provided following its conclusion. To register, please visit https://www.ambest.com/conference/IMBMilan2024/index.html.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright 2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524961531/en/

Contacts:

Edem Kuenyehia

Director, Market Development

Communications

+44 20 7397 0280

edem.kuenyehia@ambest.com
CHICAGO, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The market for A2P messaging appears to have a bright future because to factors like rising industry usage and growth, integration with cutting-edge technologies like RCS and AI, and growing use of safe, omnichannel communication techniques. Its capabilities and reach will be further enhanced by the rollout of 5G networks, emerging markets, and regulatory compliance.

The A2P Messaging Market size is projected to grow from from USD 73.1 billion in 2024 to USD 84.8 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 3.0% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The need for secure and reliable communication for transactional purposes, such as banking alerts, two-factor authentication, and delivery notifications, is driving the demand for A2P messaging.

Browse in-depth TOC on "A2P Messaging Market"

318 - Tables

56 - Figures

257 - Pages

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Scope of the Report

Report Metrics Details Market size available for years 2019-2029 Base year considered 2023 Forecast period 2024-2029 Forecast units Value (USD) Billion Segments Covered Offering (Platform, Services), Application (Authentication Services, Promotional and Marketing Services, Pushed Content Services, Interactive Messaging Services, Customer Relationship Management Services, Other Applications), Communication Channel (SMS, Operator IP, Third-party Apps, Fixed Fees), SMS traffic (Domestic, International), End User (BFSI, Retail & eCommerce, Government, Healthcare, Travel & Hospitality, Other End Users) and Region Region covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, Latin America Companies covered AT&T (US), China Mobile (China), Sinch (Sweden), Twilio (US), Infobip (UK), Vonage (US), Orange (France), Comviva (India), Route Mobile (India), BICS (Belgium), Monty Mobile (UK), Tata Communications (India), Syniverse (US), Tyntec (UK), Soprano Design (Australia), Genesys (US), Clickatell (US), CEQUENS (Egypt), MSG91 (India), Plivo (US), Mitto (Switzerland), Bird (Netherlands), Telewhale (Cyprus), EnableX.io (Singapore), TextUs (US), Voxvalley (Singapore)

Based on application, the authentication services segment holds the largest market size during the forecast period

A2P messaging services are frequently utilized in authentication processes to transmit verification codes or one-time passwords (OTPs) to users. This method, known as two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA), serves to validate a user's identity before granting access to a service or authorizing a transaction. With the widespread adoption of mobile devices, personal data is increasingly transmitted over the internet. To bolster security in authentication messaging services, two-factor authentication has emerged as the premier and most secure approach for organizations to safeguard their users and data. SMS-based authentication, leveraging OTPs, has gained prominence due to the ubiquity of mobile devices among users. 2FA authentication stands out as a cost-effective and preferred security measure embraced by brands and consumers alike for online authentication. This method necessitates users to input both a password and a code delivered via A2P message, providing an added layer of security and addressing consumer apprehensions regarding security effectively.

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Based on communication channel, the third-party apps segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period

This includes IP-based messages sent using communication apps such as Facebook Messenger, WeChat and WhatsApp. Third-party applications are integral to the functioning of Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging, enabling businesses to efficiently communicate with their customers via SMS. These apps provide a diverse range of functionalities tailored to meet various business needs. From facilitating marketing campaigns by offering features like message scheduling and audience targeting to streamlining customer service through automated replies and chatbots, third-party A2P messaging apps empower businesses to engage with their audience effectively. They also play a crucial role in delivering transactional alerts, such as account notifications and flight updates, ensuring timely communication of critical information. Additionally, these apps are commonly used for two-factor authentication, enhancing account security for users. By enabling businesses to send notifications, updates, and promotional messages, third-party A2P messaging apps help maintain customer engagement and satisfaction, ultimately contributing to the success of businesses in today's digital landscape.

North America to hold the largest market size during the forecast period

The A2P Messaging Market in North America is a thriving ecosystem fueled by the burgeoning demand for streamlined business-to-consumer communication. With a landscape dominated by key players like Twilio, Syniverse, Infobip and Sinch, the market has witnessed exponential growth driven by technological innovations such as messaging APIs and AI-driven personalization. However, amidst this growth, regulatory compliance remains paramount, with adherence to regulations like the TCPA and CASL crucial for maintaining trust and avoiding penalties. Despite challenges such as carrier filtering and increasing competition, the market's future appears promising, with continuous advancements to further enhance customer engagement and integration with technologies like RCS and OTT messaging platforms.

Top Key Companies in A2P Messaging Market:

The A2P Messaging Market comprises major providers, such as AT&T (US), China Mobile (China), Sinch (Sweden), Twilio (US), Infobip (UK), Vonage (US), Orange (France), Comviva (India), Route Mobile (India), BICS (Belgium), Monty Mobile (UK), Tata Communications (India), Syniverse (US), Tyntec (UK), Soprano Design (Australia), Genesys (US), Clickatell (US), CEQUENS (Egypt), MSG91 (India), Plivo (US), Mitto (Switzerland), Bird (Netherlands), Telewhale (Cyprus), EnableX.io (Singapore), TextUs (US), Voxvalley (Singapore). To increase their market share in the A2P messaging industry, these competitors have used a variety of growth methods, including partnerships, agreements, collaborations, new product releases, product enhancements, and acquisitions.

Recent Developments

In February 2024, Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) solutions firm Sinch India launched its new solution, Sinch Trust, to bring transparency and trustworthiness to business messaging. Sinch Trust addressed critical needs in the Indian SMS market by offering much-needed transparency and reliability and equipping businesses with the tools to capitalize on missed opportunities that turn into potential gains.

In February 2024, Vonage partnered with KDDI Web Communications to bring Vonage Communications APIs to customers in Japan. With Vonage's Communications APIs, businesses in Japan would be able to bring new communications capabilities to customers through online calling and two-way messaging and build better connections and deeper engagement. In addition, security could be enhanced with simple, seamless two-factor authentication powered by the Verify API, while Vonage's conversational commerce application, powered by Jumper.ai, enabled businesses to create AI-powered omnichannel experiences that boost sales and increase customer satisfaction.

In February 2024, Infobip introduced its Rich Communication Services (RCS) Business Messaging solution to enable MNOs and enterprises to engage with customers and create memorable experiences by delivering rich conversational messages.

In February 2024, Route Mobile partnered with Billeasy to introduce a first-of-its-kind ticket purchase experience through Rich Communication Services (RCS) Business Messaging for Maha Metro Pune. Through this strategic partnership, users would have the convenience of purchasing Maha Metro Pune e-tickets directly via RCS Messages on phones.

In November 2023, AT&T introduced AT&T ActiveArmor, offering new text-filtering features for even more protection, blocking spam text messages, and even taking down malicious websites.

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A2P Messaging Market Advantages:

Almost any mobile phone user can receive A2P messages, regardless of their location or internet availability. It is the perfect instrument for reaching a large audience because of its high penetration rate.

A2P messages-in particular, SMS-are delivered instantaneously and frequently have open rates that above 90%. This guarantees that recipients read messages as soon as possible.

A2P messaging is an affordable communication option, particularly for companies who have a lot of messages to send out. Because of its price and effectiveness, it provides a strong return on investment (ROI).

Marketing campaigns, transactional notifications, customer support alerts, two-factor authentication (2FA), appointment reminders, and more may all be accomplished with A2P messaging.

Personalised messages can be sent depending on information about the user, including name, preferences, and actions. Customer satisfaction and engagement both rise as a result of this personalisation.

Comparing A2P messaging to other communication channels, engagement rates are typically higher. Compared to emails or other digital communications, recipients of SMS messages are more likely to reply or take action.

A2P messaging services, including SMS, are extremely safe and dependable. Compared to email, they are less vulnerable to spam and other online risks because they use established mobile networks.

Due to their ability to function internationally, A2P messaging systems are a great resource for companies with a global clientele. They can communicate with clients across international borders without experiencing major delays or extra expenses.

Report Objectives

To determine, segment, and forecast the global A2P Messaging Market based on offering, application, communication channel, SMS traffic, end user, and region in terms of value.

To forecast the size of the market segments to five main regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

To provide detailed information about the major factors (drivers, opportunities, threats, and challenges) influencing the growth of the A2P Messaging Market.

To study the complete value chain and related industry segments and perform a value chain analysis of the A2P Messaging Market landscape.

To strategically analyze the macro and micro markets to individual growth trends, prospects, and contributions to the total A2P Messaging Market.

To analyze the industry trends, patents, and innovations related to the A2P Messaging Market.

To analyze the opportunities for stakeholders by identifying the high-growth segments of the A2P Messaging Market.

To profile the key players in the market and comprehensively analyze their market share/ranking and core competencies.

To track and analyze competitive developments, such as mergers & acquisitions, product launches & developments, partnerships, agreements, collaborations, business expansions, and Research & Development (R&D) activities.

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About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients.

Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry.

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U.S. notion of "China's overcapacity" excuse for protectionism

10:11, May 24, 2024 By Chen Zi ( People's Daily Online

Cartoon by Ma Hongliang

Recently, some U.S. politicians have manufactured a new topic of controversy, claiming that "China's overcapacity" is impacting the global market.

Some U.S. officials accused China's new energy industry of relying on subsidies for large volumes of exports, with "overcapacity" impacting the international market.

In fact, it is something the U.S. uses as an excuse, driven by domestic economic and political imperatives and in disregard of market principles and international rules, to implement trade protectionism.

The U.S. is essentially using the so-called "overcapacity" narrative to seek a more favorable competitive position and market advantage, thereby suppressing the development of relevant industries in China.

The rapid growth of China's new energy industry is built on continuous tech innovation, full-fledged industrial and supply chains and full market competition. Its leading edge is a result of a combination of comparative advantage and the laws of the market.

The U.S. should abandon its hegemonic mindset, play fair, observe market economy principles and international trade rules, and work with the rest of the world to advance universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
CHICAGO, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The IoT Node and Gateway market is projected to grow from USD 424.6 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 604.7 billion by 2029; it is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2024 to 2029 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The growth of the IoT Node and Gateway market is driven by the Provision of increased IP address space through IPv6, Emergence of 5G technology, and Increasing need for data centers.

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Browse in-depth TOC on "IoT Node and Gateway Market"

410 - Tables

70 - Figures

390 - Pages

IoT Node and Gateway Market Report Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2024 $ 424.6 billion Estimated Value by 2029 $ 604.7 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% Market Size Available for 2020-2029 Forecast Period 2024-2029 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Hardware, End-use Application and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Requirement for wireless spectrum and licensed spectrum Key Market Opportunities Accelerated IoT adoption in healthcare sector Key Market Drivers Rising use of wireless smart sensors and networks

By Hardware, the Logic Devices are projected to grow at a high CAGR of IoT Node and Gateway market during the forecast period.

Logic devices can adapt to changing requirements even after deployment. As new features or functionalities are needed, the logic within the device can be reprogrammed to accommodate these changes, extending the useful life of the product and reducing the need for hardware revisions. The integration of FPGA technology into IoT devices further enhances these advantages. The integration of FPGAs into IoT nodes and gateways empowers manufacturers to develop highly optimized, customizable, and scalable solutions that meet the diverse needs of IoT applications. Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) computer utilizes FPGAs to handle complex neural network computations for autonomous driving algorithms. This allows them to potentially improve their FSD capabilities through software updates that reconfigure the logic within the FPGAs.

BFSI segment in IoT Node and Gateway Market is projected to grow at a highest CAGR during the forecast period.

BFSI sector can use IoT technology to provide more convenient solutions for customers. IoT can be used to perform data collection in real time and for instant communication between devices. For instance, it can facilitate cashless payments using an RFID scanner to identify products in the shopping cart and mobile wallet. The adoption of mobile point of sale (mPOS) systems and kiosks is fundamentally reshaping the landscape of the BFSI market. mPOS facilitates transactions anytime, anywhere, benefiting unbanked populations and enabling temporary service points for events. Kiosks offer convenient banking functionalities, reducing wait times and freeing up staff for complex inquiries. These technologies drive cost savings by requiring less investment and automating routine tasks, allowing resources to be reallocated strategically. They provide rich data for personalized services, fraud detection, and operational optimization. mPOS systems and kiosks promote financial inclusion by extending services to remote areas, fostering economic activity and well-being.

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North America accounts for the largest share in IoT Node and Gateway Industry.

The North American IoT market is poised to grow, driven by government efforts to transition cities into smart urban centers. The growing need for sophisticated IoT solutions, fueled by the widespread availability of high-speed data, will further propel market expansion in this region. Furthermore, North America's dynamic IoT node and gateway ecosystem features established players like Intel Corporation (US), Texas Instruments Incorporated (US), Dell (US), and Cisco Systems (US), driving competition, innovation, and affordability. Increasing research and development at industry levels is broadening the application areas of IoT in various industries, such as retail, consumer electronics, automotive and transportation, and healthcare, especially in the US. The increased demand for effective solutions and focus on early, accurate, and fast diagnosis of diseases has led to huge investments in technological developments in the healthcare sector.

Key Players

Key companies operating in the IoT Node and Gateway companies are Intel Corporation (US), Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. (US), Texas Instruments Incorporated (US), STMicroelectronics (Switzerland), Microchip Technology Inc. (US), Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. (China), NXP Semiconductors N.V. (Netherlands), Cisco Systems, Inc. (US), Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP (US), TE Connectivity Ltd (Switzerland), Advantech Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), Dell Technologies (US), among others.

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About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients.

Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry.

To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Contact:

Mr. Aashish Mehra

MarketsandMarkets INC.

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Suite 430

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On 15th May in Geneva, Switzerland, NYO3 hosted the 2024 NYO3 Global Anti-Aging Brand Launch Event at Vitafoods Europe and officially established a strategic partnership with the renowned Norwegian anti-aging research center, NO-Age. They introduced the new premium anti-aging brand, 'Ageless', and launched their first product, NYO3 Ageless MAXI-COLLAGEN Advanced Micro-Tripeptide, marking a new era in anti-aging solutions.

Ageless, building an effective pipeline from scientific research to helpful products for consumers.

NO-Age, a leading human aging research center in Norway, brings together experts from 13 countries to collaborate on cutting-edge academic research and fosters the anti-aging industry cooperation. The four co-founding members, Prof. Jon Storm-Mathisen, Prof. Hilde Nilsen, Prof. Linda H Bergersen, and Prof. Evandro Fang, are globally recognized anti-aging scientists with a focus on advanced medical technologies and laboratory-based anti-aging research.

NYO3 and NO-Age are sharing the same goal, to empower people to live longer, healthier, and more meaningful lives. During the event, cooperation between NYO3 and NO-AGE can build an effective pipeline from scientific research to helpful products for consumers. Ageless follows the concept of "anti-aging starting from within, full-cycle cell anti-aging" and aims to create a "health management ecosystem against aging" for all humanity.

MAXI-COLLAGEN Advanced Micro-Tripeptide Won the Monde Selection Gold Award

The Ageless product includes three series, exogenous anti-aging, endogenous cell anti-aging, and day-night anti-aging, with over 20 anti-aging supplements. Starting from the mechanism of cell regeneration, it achieves full-cycle cell anti-aging from the inside out.

At the launch event, the new product MAXI-COLLAGEN Advanced Micro-Tripeptide stunned the audience with its skincare and nutritional synergy development concept. The micro-particle technology accelerates absorption with homogenizing effective ingredients into functional microparticles at the nano-level as the average particle size of 1-3m, one-ninth the size of a red blood cell. This bypasses physical digestion in the body and quickly initiates absorption biochemical processes.

Notably, Ageless received the prestigious Monde Selection Gold Award at the World Food Quality Evaluation Conference, certified its research strength and exceptional quality.

Ageless will uphold its core value of product research innovation, continuing to explore the anti-aging potential in natural nutrition, and driving global health aging processes with groundbreaking life-science advancements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524494052/en/

Contacts:

Company Name: NYO3 International AS

Website: www.nyo3.com

Telephone: +47 22 36 22 22

Contact: Derek Sung

Email Address: Sales@NYO3.no
Regulatory News:

In accordance with Article 14 of the Belgian Transparency law of May 2, 2007, Azelis Group NV (the Company) (Brussels:AZE) announces that it has received the following transparency notification on May 22, 2024:

Transparency notification from Public Sector Pension Investment Board/PSP Investments Holding Europe Ltd.

1. Summary of the notification

Public Sector Pension Investment Board and PSP Investments Holding Europe Ltd. reported in a notification dated May 22, 2024, that on May 21, 2024, following a disposal of voting securities, their shareholding decreased and crossed downwards the (lowest) threshold of 3.00% in Azelis Group NV.

On May 21, 2024, Public Sector Pension Investment Board and PSP Investments Holding Europe Ltd. owned together 7,316,409 shares with voting rights, representing 2.9995% of the total number of shares issued by the Company (243,921,719), versus 11,951,409 shares representing 4.90% in their previous notification dated July 12, 2023.

2. Content of the notification

Reason for the notification

Acquisition or disposal of voting securities or voting rights

Notification by

A parent undertaking or a controlling person

Persons subject to the notification requirement

Name Address (for legal entities) Public Sector Pension Investment Board 1250 Rene-Levesque Boulevard West, Suite 1400 Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3B 5E9 PSP Investments Holding Europe Ltd 10 Bressenden Place 8th Floor London SW1E 5DH United Kingdom

Date on which the threshold is crossed

May 21, 2024

Threshold that is crossed (in %)

3%

Denominator

243,921,719

Notified Details

A) Voting rights Previous notification After the transaction # voting rights # voting rights % voting rights Holders of voting rights Linked to securities Not linked to securities Linked to securities Not linked to securities Public Sector Pension Investment Board 0 0 0 0.00% PSP Investments Holding Europe Ltd 11,951,409 7,316,409 0 2.9995% Subtotal 11,951,409 7,316,409 0 2.9995% TOTAL 7,316,409 0 2.9995% 0.00%

B) Equivalent financial instruments After the transaction Holders of equivalent

financial instruments Type of financial

instrument Expiration date Exercise period

or date # voting rights

that may be

acquired if the

instrument is

exercised % voting rights Settlement 0,00% TOTAL 0,00%

TOTAL (A B) # of voting rights % of voting rights CALCULATE 7,316,409 2.9995%

Chain of controlled undertakings through which the holding is effectively held, if applicable

PSP Investments Holding Europe Ltd is controlled by Public Sector Pension Investment Board. All of the shares of the Public Sector Pension Investment Board are directly held by the Government of Canada (his Majesty in right of Canada), by the President of the Treasury Board of Canada, a Canadian Cabinet Minister. The shares are held by the Minister as a fiduciary on behalf of His Majesty the King in right of Canada, and as a formal requirement of the ministerial office of the President of the Treasury Board, and do not represent any control of PSPIB by the Minister, as these shares are non-voting.

3. Further information

The full transparency notification as well as this press release can be consulted on the Azelis Group NV's website.

About Azelis

Azelis is a leading global innovation service provider in the specialty chemical and food ingredients industry, present in 65 countries across the globe with over 4,200 employees. Our knowledgeable teams of industry, market and technical experts are each dedicated to a specific market within Life Sciences and Industrial Chemicals. We offer a lateral value chain of complementary products to more than 63,000 customers, supported by +2,800 principal relationships, creating a turnover of 4.2 billion (2023). Azelis Group NV is listed on Euronext Brussels under ticker AZE.

Across our extensive network of more than 70 application laboratories, our award-winning staff help develop formulations and provide technical guidance throughout the customers' product development process. We combine a global market reach with a local footprint to offer a reliable, integrated, and unique digital service to local customers and attractive -business opportunities to principals. Top industry-rated by Sustainalytics, Azelis is a leader in sustainability. We believe in building and nurturing solid, honest and transparent relationships with our people and partners.

Impact through ideas. Innovation through formulation.

www.azelis.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240524636818/en/

Contacts:

Azelis

investor-relations@azelis.com
Combined General Meeting of 24 May 2024

Voting results and dividend for financial year 2023

Paris-La Defense, on 24 May 2024, 6.00 p.m (CET) - Assystem S.A. (ISIN: FR0000074148 - ASY), confirms that its Combined General Meeting was held today, at the Centre de conferences Etoile Saint Honore located at 21-25 rue Balzac, 75008 Paris, chaired by Mr. Dominique Louis, Chairman and CEO.

The quorum was 83.25% and the General Meeting approved all resolutions submitted to vote except for the fourth one (Approval of related-party agreements).

In particular, the General Meeting:

approved the parent company and consolidated financial statements for the year ended on December 31 st , 2023,

, 2023, also decided the payment of a dividend of 12.50 per share for the 2023 financial year (including interim dividend of 7.0 per share paid on 5 April 2024), which remainder will be paid with the following schedule: 10 July 2024: ex-date, 11 July 2024 (after-market closure): record date, 12 July 2024: payment date,

and following a proposal from a shareholder, approved an amendment to the fifteenth resolution authorizing the Company to buy back its shares. The maximum purchase price per share was raised to 80 (from 65 initially), the rest of the resolution remains unchanged.

The results of votes are available on the Company's website (www.assystem.com).

ABOUT ASSYSTEM

Assystem, one of the world's leading independent nuclear engineering companies, is committed to accelerating the energy transition. With more than 55 years of experience in highly regulated sectors with stringent safety and security constraints, the Group provides engineering and project management services as well as digital solutions and services to optimise the performance of complex infrastructure assets throughout their life cycle.

In its 12 countries of operation, Assystem's 7,500 experts are supporting energy transition. To achieve an affordable low carbon energy supply, Assystem is committed to the development of low carbon electricity (nuclear, renewables and electricity grids) and clean hydrogen. The Group is also helping drive the use of low carbon electricity in industrial sectors such as transportation.

For more information please visit www.assystem.com / Follow Assystem on Twitter: @Assystem

CONTACTS

Malene Korvin - Chief Financial Officer - mkorvin@assystem.com - Tel.: +33 (0)1 41 25 29 00

Anne-Charlotte Dagorn - Communications Director - acdagorn@assystem.com - Tel.: +33 (0)6 83 03 70 29

Agnes Villeret - Komodo - Investor relations - agnes.villeret@agence-komodo.com - Tel: +33 (0)6 83 28 04 15
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, May 24

For immediate release

24 May 2024

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announce that it has today purchased 157,097 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 856.13 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 42,543,585; 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 182,447,718.

The figure of 182,447,718 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
BH Macro Limited - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, May 24

BH Macro Limited (the "Company")

(a closed-ended collective investment scheme established as a company with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registered number 46235)

Transaction in Own Shares

24 May 2024

BH Macro Limited (the Company) announces today it has purchased the following number of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange from J.P. Morgan Securities plc:

Ordinary Shares: - Share Class Sterling Date of purchase: 24 May 2024 Number of ordinary shares purchased: 3,348 Lowest price per share (pence) 359.5 Highest price per share (pence) 359.5 Trading venue LSE Aggregate volume per date per trading venue: 3,348 Weighted average price per day per trading venue (pence): 359.5000

The Company intends to hold the purchased shares in treasury.

Following the above share transactions of the relevant US Dollar and Sterling Shares, the total number of shares in issue in each share class of the Company will be as follows:

Ordinary Shares in issue (excluding Treasury) Ordinary Shares held in Treasury 357,460,360 Sterling Shares 16,578,105 Sterling Shares 29,235,299 Dollar Shares Nil Dollar Shares

From 24 May 2024, the total number of voting rights in the Company (rounded up to the whole number) is 548,060,558.

Enquiries:

Company website: www.bhmacro.com

William Simmonds

JPMorgan Cazenove

Tel: 020 7588 2828

The Company Secretary

Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited

Tel: 01481 745001
Walgreens hosted a Clinical Trials Day event in the Boston area this week where the emphasis was on women's health in the transformation of clinical trials and healthcare innovation.

Originally published by Walgreens Boots Alliance

By Elyse Russo

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Clinical Trials Day is globally recognized on May 20, and this year, the Walgreens Clinical Trials team decided to celebrate with an event dedicated to women's health. After all, May is National Women's Health Month.

"Walgreens is taking action to elevate awareness about gender-specific disparities related to health, and the importance and relevance of participation in medical research," said Kendal Whitlock, head of digital optimization for Walgreens Clinical Trials.

Whitlock was the organizer of the Walgreens Clinical Trials Day event, which was held earlier this week in the Boston area-a timely location as Walgreens just announced that a new clinical trials center will be opening in the nearby city of Malden.

Doctors, pharmacists, community leaders, advocates, academics, tech companies and pharmaceutical organizations were all represented at the Walgreens Clinical Trials event. The day was kicked off with remarks from local Congressman Jake Auchincloss, and featured keynote speakers and panels. Many of the women who participated in the Clinical Trials Day event made bold statements about the state of women's health and how to support women's inclusion in medical research. Here are just five of their inspirational quotes.

1. "Let's make some noise."

Walgreens Chief Clinical Trials Officer Ramita Tandon shared a Walgreens clinical trials milestone that shows the company's commitment to including women in medical research:

"As the two-year anniversary of our clinical trials business approaches, we celebrate reaching more than 4 million patients to potentially enroll into trials, and of those, more than 60% have been women. We will continue to make strides to bring trials directly to our communities and continue dialing up the noise on women's health."

2. "Ask and explain."

Dr. Yvette Cozier is an investigator on the Black Women's Health Study (BWHS) and the BWHS Sarcoidosis Study at the Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University. During her keynote, Cozier talked about how to best recruit Black women for clinical trials:

"In my research, I've learned that Black women want to participate in clinical research. You just have to package information so that someone like my grandmother would understand it and do it. If you ask women and explain things to them, they will join clinical trials."

3. "Looking back informs how to look forward."

Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, who serves as the medical director of urgent care clinics at Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nevada, says history should inform healthcare professionals how we can push forward in women's health.

"True diversity in healthcare goes beyond token representation. Acknowledging our history is essential to equip ourselves with insights needed to address trust and prevent delayed care. Afterall, our past still impacts how we're bringing healthcare to women. The National Institutes of Health reported it takes up to 17 years for new evidence to translate into standard clinical practice, which means we're still using practices studied more than 17 years ago."

4. "Inclusion in the standard of care."

Epidemiologist Linda Goler Blount, who is also president and CEO of the Black Women's Health Imperative, wants women to feel confident in knowing they are included in developing the standard of care.



"When we say something is evidence based, I want the women I'm talking to to know that the standard of care was created with them in mind and that they were involved in the research."

5. "Healthy women should matter to everyone."

Dr. Beth Garner, who is Chief Scientific Officer of Ferring Pharmaceuticals US, makes the case for why women's health is a topic everyone should care about.

"We all know that when women are healthy, everyone is healthy. That's why it's important to include people in clinical trials who look like the people who will be using your product when it's approved. That is why it's so amazing what Walgreens is doing in clinical trials. It's so exciting to bring clinical trials to the people."

Visit Walgreens.com to learn more about Walgreens Clinical Trials.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Walgreens Boots Alliance on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Walgreens Boots Alliance

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/walgreens-boots-alliance

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Walgreens Boots Alliance

View the original press release on accesswire.com
NINGBO, China, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On the morning of May 23, the premier exhibition of "Ningbo in Light and Shadow" was launched in Cambodia. Chen Cong, Minister-Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, Prak Phannara, Secretary of State to Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia, Chhean Leang, Secretary of State to Ministry of Information of Cambodia and Choun Chanphearoun, Deputy Director General of Information and Broadcasting of the Ministry of Information of Cambodia attended the launching ceremony. The chambers of commerce of three levels (Ningbo, Zhejiang and China) in Cambodia, CNS reporters in Cambodia and reporters from Cambodian mainstream media have participated in the ceremony of the premier exhibition.

The premier exhibition was jointly organized by Ningbo International Communication Center (NICC), China Pictorial, and Ningbo Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, covering more than 20 Ningbo companies such as Seduno and Shenzhou International Group, with 120,000 employees in overseas factories in Cambodia.

It is reported that this is the first large-scale cultural exchange event in China that uses overseas factories as a platform to promote the image of the city to go global.

This photography exhibition has selected 90 excellent photographic works. In addition to showing the mountains and rivers, landmarks and intangible heritage of Zhejiang and China, there are also beautiful pictures from Ningbo, covering the port, industry, city, culture and other aspects. The purpose is to tell the story of China with photos, so that employees of overseas factories can better understand Ningbo.

The Sanjiangkou in Ningbo is both the outlet of China's Grand Canal and the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road. The monument "Point of Departure of the Maritime Tea Route" at Sanjiangkou tells the origin of Chinese tea going global. The remarks of these pictures have brought the viewers back to the ancient time, witnessing a fleet of tea, tea sets, cotton and silk, porcelain was shipped from here to Cambodia and other places around the world.

"Through the text explanation, I have learned that the Phnom Penh - Poipet high-speed railway built in cooperation with China is also advancing, and it will become more convenient to travel in the future, which is very exciting." said Shen Jinfa, an employee of Seduno (Cambodia) Knitting Co., Ltd.

A photo that is related to local social life also transcends the meaning of the photo itself and serves as a bridge to China-Cambodia friendship.

"I've never been to China, I've never been to the location of the headquarters. However, these photos make me have a wonderful imagination of Ningbo far away." Rasny, an employee of Seduno (Cambodia) Knitting Co., Ltd., said that she is very fond of the historical architecture and cultural art of Ningbo at this photo exhibition.

Many Ningbo companies such as Seduno have gathered in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. How to increase the cohesion between employees from different cultural backgrounds is a problem to deal with by many overseas factories.

"Through the photo exhibition, we have learned about the changes and development opportunities in China, as well as the development of this vibrant city of Ningbo." Chhean Leang, Secretary of State to Ministry of Information of Cambodia, greatly appreciates this approach, which allows people to know each other's situation intuitively.

"Ningbo in Light and Shadow" Global 100 Exhibitions on 100 Enterprises plans to hold 100 photography exhibitions in 100 overseas factories of Ningbo enterprises. The next step will be launching the exhibition at overseas factories of Ningbo enterprises in Bangladesh, Vietnam and other countries.

Contact: Huang Jin

Tel.: 0086-18868927982

E-mail: 2525545093@qq.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2421717/Ningbo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2217761/4725607/Ningbo_International_Communications_Center_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ningbo-in-light-and-shadow---the-premier-exhibition-of-the-global-100-exhibitions-on-100-enterprises-launched-in-cambodia-302155316.html
TAMPA, FLA. / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / LIFE SURGE, one of America's largest Christian touring brands designed to inspire, transform, and equip attendees for Kingdom Impact, has announced that Shawn Marcell has been named President.

Life Surge Logo

Life Surge New Logo

Previously serving as LIFE SURGE's COO, Marcell brings a wealth of experience from both ministry and marketplace settings. With over 26 years in pastoral leadership, he also founded non-profits domestically and internationally. Transitioning to the marketplace, Marcell excelled in executive sales roles and later led a commercial real estate firm to become the fastest growing in its sector for two consecutive years.

"LIFE SURGE is unlike any organization I've encountered," said Shawn Marcell, the incoming President. "Here, we're passionate about helping individuals discover their God-given potential and unleash the transformative power of faith in every aspect of life, including the marketplace. It's about turning your work into your ministry."

Marcell's leadership at LIFE SURGE transcends titles, as his heart for people shines through. He is passionate about helping individuals reach their God-given potential, and inspiring the Church to bridge the gap between ministry and marketplace. He sees all work as sacred when done for God's glory.

Beyond his professional achievements, Marcell has co-authored a book, "Offspring: Becoming a Family Full of Heritage and Hope," with his wife, Nichole, reflecting their testimony of God's goodness and restorative power in their 32-year marriage.

About Life Surge

LIFE SURGE is a national touring brand that inspires and educates Christian entrepreneurs, leaders, and workers to create and multiply financial resources for Kingdom Impact. It brings together the leading voices in faith and finance to inspire, transform, and equip attendees to "SURGE their life God's way!" LIFE SURGE hosted 17 events in 2023 with more than 30 events planned for 2024, in markets such as Los Angeles, Orlando, Dallas, Denver and Tampa. Future dates and locations are being announced regularly and can be found at LIFESURGE.com.

Contact Information

Melany Ethridge

melany@alarryross.com

(214) 912-8934

SOURCE: LifeSurge

View the original press release on newswire.com.
PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF OFFER DOCUMENT

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION (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.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On 24 April, 2024, K1 made an announcement pursuant to Rule 2.7 of the Irish Takeover Rules (the "Rule 2.7 Announcement") of a firm intention by Meridian Bidco LLC ("Bidco"), a newly formed Affiliate of K1, as general partner of K5 Capital Advisors, L.P., as general partner of K5 Private Investors, L.P., to make an offer to acquire the entire issued and to be issued share capital of MariaDB (the Offer).

Capitalised terms used but not defined in this announcement have the same meaning given to them in the Offer Document.

Bidco and K1 are pleased to announce that the Offer Document (the "Offer Document") which contains, amongst other things, the full terms and conditions of the Offer and the procedures for its acceptance, together with the related Letter of Transmittal, has today been published and posted to the shareholders of MariaDB (the "MariaDB Shareholders") (other than those located in a Restricted Jurisdiction). For information purposes only, the Offer Document is being made available to persons with information rights.

The Offer will remain open for acceptance until 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on 10 July 2024 (or such later time(s) and/or date(s) to which the Offer may be extended) (the "Expiration Time").

Actions to be taken to accept the Offer

The procedure for acceptance of the Offer is set out in Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document. If you wish to tender all or (in the case of a tender for the Cash Offer only) a portion of your MariaDB Shares to Bidco in the Offer, you must do the following:

If you hold your MariaDB Shares directly as the holder of record, complete and sign the Letter of Transmittal (either manually or electronically) (or, in the case of a book-entry transfer, deliver an Agent's Message in lieu of the Letter of Transmittal) that accompanies the Offer Document (which constitutes the form of acceptance for the Offer for the purposes of the Irish Takeover Rules) in accordance with the instructions set forth therein and mail or electronically deliver the Letter of Transmittal with any required signature guarantees and all other required documents to Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (the " Exchange Agent "). Letters of Transmittal from certificated MariaDB Shareholders should be accompanied by share certificates in respect of the MariaDB Shares tendered. These materials must be delivered to the Exchange Agent prior to the Expiration Time. See Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document for further details on the procedures for book-entry transfer.





"). Letters of Transmittal from certificated MariaDB Shareholders should be accompanied by share certificates in respect of the MariaDB Shares tendered. These materials must be delivered to the Exchange Agent prior to the Expiration Time. See Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document for further details on the procedures for book-entry transfer. If you hold your MariaDB Shares through a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee, request your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee to tender your MariaDB Shares through DTC's Automated Tender Offer Program prior to the Expiration Time.

Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that wish to receive the Unlisted Unit Alternative will also be required to provide a completed Response Letter to the Investor Questionnaire as further described in Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document. Bidco will review all Response Letters upon receipt, and this review process will take time. Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that wish to receive the Unlisted Unit Alternative are strongly encouraged to return their Letter of Transmittal (or, in the case of a book-entry transfer, an Agent's Message in lieu of a Letter of Transmittal) electing for the Unlisted Unit Alternative as soon as possible.

Upon completion of the Response Letter and a determination by Bidco, in its sole discretion, that such MariaDB Shareholder may be offered and sold Topco Rollover Units pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act and an exemption from the registration requirements of applicable US state securities laws, such Eligible MariaDB Shareholder will receive a confidential offering memorandum (the "Offering Memorandum"). In addition, Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that wish to receive the Unlisted Unit Alternative will be required, following completion of the Response Letter and subsequent receipt of the Offering Memorandum, to deliver a signature page to the Topco LLCA to complete their election for the Unlisted Unit Alternative as further described in Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document. Failure to complete these additional requirements will result in any Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that tender their MariaDB Shares for the Unlisted Unit Alternative being unable to receive the Topco Rollover Units.

Additional Irrevocable Undertakings

K1, K5 and Bidco have received further irrevocable undertakings each dated 24 May 2024 to accept the Offer, or (where Bidco and/or the K1 Group elects to switch to a scheme of arrangement with respect to MariaDB plc under the Companies Act 2014) the scheme of arrangement under the Companies Act 2014, from Sophia Arno and Alexander Arno in respect of, in aggregate, 114,082 MariaDB Shares, representing in aggregate approximately 0.16% of the existing issued share capital of MariaDB as at 16 May 2024 (being the latest practicable date for the purposes of the Offer Document). These irrevocable undertakings have been entered into on substantially similar terms as the irrevocable undertakings previously obtained by K1, K5 and Bidco as further detailed in the 2.7 Announcement.

Accordingly, K1, K5, Topco and Bidco have received irrevocable undertakings to accept the Offer, or where Bidco and/or the K1 Group elects to switch to a scheme of arrangement with respect to MariaDB under the Companies Act 2014, vote in favour of the scheme of arrangement under the Companies Act 2014, in respect of, in aggregate, 47,402,907 MariaDB Shares, representing in aggregate approximately 68.67% of the existing issued share capital of MariaDB as of 16 May 2024 (being the latest practicable date for the purposes of the Offer Document). These undertakings continue to be binding in the event of a competing offer for MariaDB.

Further details of irrevocable undertakings and the parties thereto are set out in the "Special Factors" section of the Offer Document.

Expected timetable

Further details of the expected timetable and details of how to accept the Offer are set out in the Offer Document.

The Offer Document and the Letter of Transmittal will be made available free of charge, subject to certain restrictions relating to persons resident in Restricted Jurisdictions, on K1's website (https://k1.com/meridian-offer-update/).

Enquiries

Lazard (Financial Advisor to K1 and Bidco) Adrian Duchini, Keiran Wilson, Charles White Tel: +44 20 7187 2000



Haven Tower Group (Public Relations Advisor to K1) Donald Cutler, Brandon Blackwell Tel: +1 424 317 4850

Important Notices

The K1 Responsible Persons (being the investment committee of K1), the Bidco Officers and the Topco Officers accept responsibility for the information contained in this Announcement. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the K1 Responsible Persons, the Bidco Officers, the Topco Officers, (who have taken all reasonable care to ensure that such is the case) the information contained in this Announcement for which they have accepted responsibility is in accordance with the facts and does not omit anything likely to affect the import of such information.

Lazard Freres & Co. LLC, together with its affiliate Lazard & Co., Limited (which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority) ("Lazard"), is acting exclusively as financial adviser to K1 and Bidco and no one else in connection with the Offer and will not be responsible to anyone other than K1 and Bidco for providing the protections afforded to clients of Lazard nor for providing advice in relation to the Offer or any other matters referred to in this Announcement. Neither Lazard nor any of its affiliates owes or accepts any duty, liability or responsibility whatsoever (whether direct or indirect, whether in contract, in tort, under statute or otherwise) to any person who is not a client of Lazard in connection with this Announcement, any statement contained herein or otherwise.

Disclosure requirements of the Irish Takeover Rules

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 MariaDB, all 'dealings' in any 'relevant securities' of MariaDB 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 (U.S. Eastern 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 MariaDB, they will be deemed to be a single person for the purpose of Rule 8.3 of the Irish Takeover Rules.

Dealing Disclosures must also be made by any offeror and by any persons acting in concert with them in accordance with Rule 8.2 of the Irish Takeover Rules.

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.

Details of the offeree company in respect of whose relevant securities Dealing Disclosures must be made can be found in the Disclosure Table on the Irish Takeover Panel's website at www.irishtakeoverpanel.ie, including details of the number of relevant securities in issue, when the offer period commenced and when any offeror was first identified. 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.

Further Information

This Announcement is for information purposes only and is not intended to, and does not, constitute an offer to sell or invitation to purchase any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction pursuant to the Offer or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. In particular, this Announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. No offer of securities shall be made in the United States absent registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements. The release, publication or distribution of this Announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law and therefore persons in such jurisdictions into which this Announcement is released, published or distributed should inform themselves about and observe such restrictions.

This Announcement has been prepared for the purpose of complying with the laws of Ireland and the Irish Takeover Rules and the information disclosed may not be the same as that which would have been disclosed if this Announcement had been prepared in accordance with the laws of jurisdictions outside of Ireland.

Overseas Shareholders

The laws of certain jurisdictions may affect the availability of the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) to persons who are not resident in Ireland. Persons who are not resident in Ireland, or who are subject to laws of any jurisdiction other than Ireland, should inform themselves about, and observe, any applicable legal or regulatory requirements. Any failure to comply with any applicable legal or regulatory requirements may constitute a violation of the laws and/or regulations of any such jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, the companies and persons involved in the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) disclaim any responsibility and liability for the violation of such restrictions by any person.

Unless otherwise determined by Bidco or K1 or required by the Irish Takeover Rules, and permitted by applicable law and regulation, the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) will not be made available, directly or indirectly, in any Restricted Jurisdiction, and the Offer will not be capable of acceptance from within a Restricted Jurisdiction where to do so would violate the laws in that jurisdiction. The release, publication or distribution of this Announcement in or into certain jurisdictions may be restricted by the laws of those jurisdictions. Accordingly, copies of this Announcement and all other documents relating to the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) are not being, and must not be, released, published, mailed or otherwise forwarded, distributed or sent in, into or from any Restricted Jurisdiction. Persons receiving such documents (including, without limitation, nominees, trustees and custodians) should observe these restrictions. Failure to do so may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, K1, the K1 Group and Bidco disclaims any responsibility or liability for the violations of any such restrictions by any person. MariaDB Shareholders who are in any doubt regarding such matters should consult an appropriate independent professional adviser in the relevant jurisdiction without delay. Further details in relation to overseas shareholders are contained in the Offer Document.

If you are a resident of the United States, please read the following:

This Announcement is not intended to, and does not, constitute or form part of any offer (including the Offer), invitation or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, tender, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor will there be any acquisition or disposition of the securities referred to in this Announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable Law or regulation.

This Announcement is not a substitute for the Offer Document and the Form of Acceptance or any other document that Bidco may file with the SEC in connection with the Offer, if any. A solicitation and an offer to buy MariaDB Shares will be made pursuant to a Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO that Bidco intends to file with the SEC. At the time the tender offer is commenced, MariaDB will file a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the tender offer. MARIADB SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ ANY SUCH DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE OFFER. SUCH DOCUMENTS SHOULD BE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE ANY DECISION IS MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE OFFER. Investors and MariaDB Shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of these materials (if and when available) and other documents containing important information about MariaDB and the Offer once such documents are filed with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.

The Offer, if made, will be made in the United States pursuant to the Exchange Act and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of the Irish Takeover Rules. Accordingly, the Offer will be subject to disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments that may be different from those typically applicable under U.S. domestic tender offer procedures and law. In addition, the Offer Document and any other documents relating to the Offer have been or will be prepared in accordance with the Irish Takeover Rules and Irish disclosure requirements, format and style, all of which may differ from those in the United States.

MariaDB is incorporated under the laws of Ireland. Some of the directors on the MariaDB Board at the date of this Announcement are resident in a country other than the United States. As a result, it may not be possible for United States holders of MariaDB Shares to effect service of process within the United States upon MariaDB or some of the directors of MariaDB or to enforce against any of them judgements of the United States predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States. It may not be possible to sue MariaDB or its officers or director(s) in a non-US court for violations of US securities laws. In addition, US holders of MariaDB Shares should be aware that, if K1 and Bidco elect to proceed pursuant to a scheme of arrangement (as described herein), the federal securities laws of the United States may not be applicable.

Publication on website

A copy of this announcement and the documents required to be published pursuant to Rule 26 of the Irish Takeover Rules will be made available, subject to certain restrictions relating to persons resident in Restricted Jurisdictions, will be made available on K1's website (https://k1.com/meridian-offer-update/). Neither the content of any such website nor the content of any other website accessible from hyperlinks on such website is incorporated into, or forms part of, this Announcement.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/882948/K1_Logo.jpg

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Apex Critical Metals Corp. (CSE:APXC) ("Apex" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with a vendor (the "Vendor") to acquire a 50% interest in a group of mineral claims located in the James Bay region of Quebec, Canada. As consideration for the Claims, Apex will pay the Vendor $125,000 CAD in cash.

The acquisition of the Claims is a "Related Party Transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI61-101") as Jody Dahrouge, a director of the Company, is also a director and officer of the Vendor. The transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 based on the exemptions set out in subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI61-101, as the fair market value of the acquisition is not more than 25% of the market capitalization of the Company.

About Apex Critical Metals Corp.

Apex Critical Metals Corp.is a Canadian exploration company specializing in the acquisition and development of high potential rare earth elements (REE's) and niobium properties. Apex Critical Metals is publicly listed on the CSE and its common shares currently trade under the symbol "APXC".

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

APEX CRITICAL METALS CORP.,

Sean Charland

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: 604.681.1568

Email: info@apexcriticalmetals.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION:

This news release may contain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the anticipated timing for the Company's shares to begin trading under the new name and trading symbol. Forward-looking statements are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements, including risks related to factors beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to, the receipt of regulatory approval for the change of name and trading symbol. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Apex Critical Metals Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / With a heavy heart, MEMRI mourns the passing, on April 16, 2024, of MEMRI Senior Analyst Emeritus Dr. Nimrod Raphaeli, at the age of 91.

Born in his beloved Basra, Iraq, Dr. Raphaeli's was forced to flee with his family to Israel. There he attended university, coming to the U.S. on a Fulbright Scholarship for graduate studies in 1960, completing an MPA at U. Pitt., and a Ph.D. and Post-Doctoral Fellowship at U. Mich.

In 1966, he moved back to Israel to join the faculty of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and in 1969, the family returned to the U.S. and he began a distinguished career at the World Bank. At the World Bank, Dr. Raphaeli headed technical assistance and development planning divisions; later, he moved into central operations, focusing on operations policy and coordination with other international organizations. In 1995, he became the World Bank's representative to the United Nations. He also served as a consultant to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). During his time at the World Bank and at the IMF, Dr. Raphaeli travelled all over the world, from Africa to Asia. He was also frequently interviewed by the international media on issues concerning politics in his home country Iraq and the economy of the Middle East.

After retirement, in 2000, Dr. Raphaeli joined MEMRI as Senior Analyst of Economic Studies. Because of his great expertise, he also served as MEMRI Special Advisor in a range of fields, from Middle Eastern Studies to Russian and Chinese Studies.

At MEMRI, he conducted groundbreaking work on Iraq, and was the first to translate the "Oil for Food" list of 270 prominent individuals and companies who were helping Saddam Hussein subvert UN sanctions against him. He then focused on the fall of Saddam and the fledgling democracy in Iraq, including the historic elections in which he assisted in voting campaigns for Iraqi expatriates. He also authored an Economic Blog for MEMRI, and continued contributing pro bono to MEMRI's work until his passing.

Dr. Raphaeli was fluent in Arabic (his mother tongue), English, and Hebrew, and conversant in several Arabic dialects.

He will be remembered by all of us at MEMRI for his wisdom, sharp intellect, elegance, dedication, resilience, generosity, and vast knowledge, and as a mentor to many. He will also be remembered for his deep love for his home country Iraq, which he never forgot despite being separated from it, and for his passion for classical Arabic language and literature.

But legacy is not just about leaving something behind for others. It is primarily about leaving something in them, Dr. Raphaeli will be remembered most of all as a great, true, caring, loving, and inspiring friend.

His sagacity, wit, and insights are deeply missed by all at MEMRI. Our deepest sympathies go out to Dr. Raphaeli's family, that over the years became an important and integral part of the MEMRI family. We will forever cherish Dr. Raphaeli's memory and hold him dear in our hearts.

Read Dr. Nimrod Raphaeli's obituary in The Washington Post here.

Visit the archive of Dr. Nimrod Raphaeli's writings and analyses on the Middle East economy, policies, and social issues studies on MEMRI.org here.

ABOUT MEMRI

Exploring the Middle East and South Asia through their media, MEMRI bridges the language gap between the West and the Middle East and South Asia, providing timely translations of Arabic, Farsi, Urdu-Pashtu, Dari, Turkish, Russian, and Chinese media, as well as original analysis of political, ideological, intellectual, social, cultural, and religious trends.

Founded in February 1998 to inform the debate over U.S. policy in the Middle East, MEMRI is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. MEMRI's main office is located in Washington, DC, with branch offices in various world capitals. MEMRI research is translated into English, French, Polish, Japanese, Spanish, and Hebrew.

MEMRI - Middle East Media Research Institute: www.memri.org

MEMRI TV - www.memri.org/tv

Jihad & Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) - www.memri.org/jttm

Cyber & Jihad Lab (CJL) - www.memri.org/cjlab

MEMRI Twitter: https://twitter.com/memrireports/

MEMRI YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59Cpk70K2TwdmApJOTuW9g/videos

MEMRI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memrireports/

Contact Information:

MEMRI

media@memri.org

202-955-9070

www.memri.org

SOURCE: Middle East Media Research Institute

View the original press release on accesswire.com
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / In a notable move for the 2024 proxy season, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander and New York City Public Pension Boards (NYCERS) submitted six shareholder proposals asking banks to disclose a novel metric for assessing their progress towards their net zero targets and contributions to the clean energy transition. The proposals yielded significant commitments and above-average support, reflecting a growing investor demand for a comprehensive understanding of banks' funding practices to ensure alignment with responsible objectives.

As of now, there is little comparable information on banks' green energy financing. The Clean Energy Supply Finance Ratio shareholder resolutions filed by NYCERS call on each bank to regularly disclose a figure comparing their financing of clean energy to their financing of fossil fuels. To align with the goals of the Paris Agreement, banks must significantly scale up financing for the transition, targeting a crucial 4:1 ratio of financing to renewables over fossil fuels by 2030 (i.e., for every $1 dollar supporting fossil fuel supply, banks must supply $4 to support low carbon energy by 2030). The proposals ask the banks to set a ratio target and work to improve their ratio going forward.

The NYCERS resolution was withdrawn for commitment at three banks - JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Royal Bank of Canada - which all agreed to disclose their financing ratios. Proposals at three other banks - Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley - were brought to a shareholder vote, garnering an average support of 26% (26%, 29%, and a preliminary 23% vote, respectively). Based on a review of the 2023 US proxy season by Columbia Threadneedle, the average vote was 23% last year, suggesting 25% is the new benchmark for meaningful shareholder proposal support in 2024.

"If more institutions adopt, disclose, and improve their clean energy finance ratios, they can help reduce risks to themselves and the entire financial system while increasing financing for the business opportunities in the transition to a clean economy," said Rob Berridge, Sr. Director of Shareholder Engagement, Ceres. "The results of these proposals have positioned the clean energy supply financing ratio as a vital metric for evaluating banks' progress in financing the transition."

Other noteworthy proxy season results centered around corporate lobbying disclosure, particularly those seeking greater disclosure in the financial services sector. Votes at Truist (41%), BNY Melon (39%), Goldman Sachs (39%), Wells Fargo (36%), and Morgan Stanley (31%, preliminary) all garnered solid shareholder support. A similar resolution at Capital One was withdrawn for commitment. These results are poised to set a new standard for disclosure in the banking industry as the proposals have prompted significant discourse among banks and investors.

Berridge added, "The high votes for lobbying disclosure are also a significant signal that investors want banks to address the reputational risks of participation in trade associations whose positions contradict the banks' public position. We hope these efforts will help catalyze enhanced transparency and ambition in the banking sector."

About Ceres

Ceres is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more just, and sustainable world. United under a shared vision, our powerful networks of investors and companies are proving sustainability is the bottom line-changing markets and sectors from the inside out. For more information, visit ceres.org.

Media Contact: Vivian Melody, vmelody@ceres.org, 617-247-0700 ext. 353

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Ceres on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Ceres

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/ceres

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Ceres

View the original press release on accesswire.com
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / CARE

The "Amazons" of the Kingdom of Dahomey were known for their bravery, their audacity, and their innovation. The 18th-century Amazons challenged archetypes, stimulated debates, revolutionized gender roles, and contributed to the advancement of women's rights. Like their ancestral sisters in Dahomey, the Amazons of Cote d'Ivoire are modern-day warriors.

Instead of using the implements of war to stake their claims, today's Amazons of Cote d'Ivoire use financial tools. They are members of Village Savings & Loan Associations (VSLAs), who have decided to establish and expand these essential community financial resources throughout Cote d'Ivoire, empowering vulnerable and marginalized communities, particularly women.

I recently spent time with some of the Amazons in New York at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) where they talked with ministers and other government officials, civil-society organization leaders and funders about the impact of their work.

In 2006, CARE began to set up VSLAs in areas of Cote d'Ivoire predominantly made up of rural women. Today, CARE is working with approximately 15,000 savings groups in the region, and this model has been replicated by other global nonprofits and state institutions, including Cote d'Ivoire's Ministry of Solidarity and Poverty Eradication (aka "the Ministry").

"It is urgent today to encourage local populations to join [these] groups in order to offer them greater opportunity to live with dignity," said Myss Belmonde Dogo from the Ministry. "[VSLA] groups represent a culture of savings and the reinforcement of ties of solidarity for grassroots development."

Before joining forces as the Amazons, local women who were running VSLAs were working diligently but separately to set up groups in their communities. They were actively recruiting other women at community events, including weddings, when chatting together while cooking or preparing the bride, and when they started to find out about each other, they knew they had the potential to reach more women and came to CARE asking for support to formally bring them together.

We responded by organizing training sessions on the VSLA methodology. The groups also received training in advocacy, leadership, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. We then brought these women together with Regional Directors from the Ministry so that the work of the Amazons could be formally recognized.

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Because of that key partnership, the Amazons are contributing to the national effort to combat poverty. Working directly with the Ministry's Regional Directors, they have developed a system of establishing, supervising, and mentoring savings groups. This encourages women and girls to invest in themselves and their futures.

45,000 members and counting

The Amazons' approach allows for a deep understanding of local realities and norms, enabling them to better support VSLA members in their financial, social, and political activities. The Ministry has formally recognized their role as scaling partners and credible leaders within their communities, supporting social cohesion.

Since March 2022, 49 Amazons have created nearly 2,000 groups with over 45,000 members across the country. Their goal is to create 2,000 more groups by 2026.

Gladys Zado Gbehi from Abidjan has personally helped to establish more than 80 groups, creating a chain of solidarity and mutual support among women. She was one of the attendees at the CSW68 in New York. She described the cascading effect that VSLAs have on women and families.

"Through our savings groups I regularly see women changing their lives," she said. "I see women who now have regular income from selling cakes and baked goods, fresh juices, or sandwiches. Women who can now send their child to school. Women who are no longer lonely because they are part of a group, and who have support from their savings group for clothes and food when they are going through a tough time."

For the Ministry, the Amazons are a trusted way to directly reach and support communities throughout the country to help reduce poverty in rural communities.

In addition to establishing savings groups, they are actively working to reduce harmful practices, such as forced marriage and gender-based violence. They have clear operating methods to gain support in the local community to recognize the value of VSLAs, identify potential leaders, train them on VSLA best practices, and help spread the word throughout the region.

'An ideal partner'

"The Amazons are an ideal partner for the Ministry because they completely understand their communities," says Kouakou Olivier Michel Houango, the Ministry's Regional Director for Abidjan. "They also have concrete operating methods to reduce the vulnerability of women and young people living in poverty. They are essential partners, and we cannot work without them. We must listen to the aspirations and dreams of women."

"When I joined the savings group, I was selling fish, & eventually I opened a small restaurant. I now have three employees, too. With the money I make, I pay for school for my seven children" Gladys Zado Gbehi

For the Amazons, being connected to the Ministry has opened doors t, helping them work more freely in communities. Their determination is palpable.

"Having the government as a partner is important for our legitimacy in the community, for our growth and our access to the market. But VSLAs are for us women., It is the way forward for our development and our fulfillment. We will continue to engage and support this work on our terms and needs."

For the future, the Amazons tell us they have great ambitions. As well as continuing to highlight the capacities and leadership of women through VSLAs, they will continue to raise awareness amongst women and girls on the benefits of joining VSLAs, supporting CARE's ambitions to significantly scale savings groups.

They also plan to expand their Amazons network and will recruit younger women to succeed them, as well as identify men as allies who can help scale the groups. They will continue to lead advocacy efforts around specific issues, such as eliminating forced marriage, influence institutions for increased access to markets for women, and support group negotiations with financial institutions.

Ultimately, they plan to create a network of Amazons connecting women from different regions of the country, increasing their capacity to trade with their sisters from Abidjan to Korhogo. Furthermore, the Amazons will also explore the idea of ??creating a women's bank, which will tailor products and services to the needs and realities of women.

Women in Cote d'Ivoire celebrate the end cycle of their Village Savings and Loan Association. Photo: Cheryl Djiro/CARE

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CARE on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: CARE

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/care

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: CARE

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Forward Water Technologies Corp. ("Forward Water" or the "Company") (TSXV:FWTC) today announced that it has closed the issuance of the $225,000 of debentures referenced in the Company's press release dated May 14, 2024. The Company issued $100,000 of secured convertible debentures that bear interest at 20% per annum and bear interest at a rate of 20% per annum with such interest to commence 120 days following the execution of the definitive agreement to be entered into in connection with the proposed business combination with Fraser Mackenzie Accelerator Corp. ("FMAC") (see the Company's press release dated May 14, 2024) (the "Business Combination") and maturing on the earlier of December 31, 2024 and the closing of the Business Combination. These convertible debentures will convert into units of Forward Water ("Units") concurrently with the completion of the Transaction at a conversion price of $0. 145 per Unit (following the proposed 10 for 1 share consolidation to be completed by the Company in connection with the Business Combination (the "Consolidation")). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of Forward Water with each whole warrant entitling the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.20 (following the Consolidation) at any time prior to the third anniversary of the issuance of such warrant. If the Business Combination is not completed the debentures will not be convertible.

The remaining $125,000 of debentures are not convertible, will mature on December 31, 2024 and will otherwise have the same terms as set forth above. $25,000 principal amount of debentures were acquired by Fraser Mackenzie Accelerator Corp. and the remaining $200,000 principal amount of debentures were acquired by FirstLine Venture Partners Corporation ("FirstLine") and Sustainable Chemistry Alliance ("SCA"). It is intended that the proceeds of the financing will be used for general working capital purposes.

The securities issued or being issuable in connection with the financing will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day that will expire on September 25, 2024.

FirstLine and SCA each hold greater than 20% of the outstanding FMAC Shares and as such are considered related parties for the purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The participation of FirstLine and SCA constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of MI 61-101. FWTC is relying upon exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively - Fair Market Value Not More Than 25 Per Cent of Market Capitalization, on the basis that at the time the issuances were agreed to, neither the fair market value of the securities to be distributed to FirstLine or SCA, nor the consideration to be received for the securities, will exceed 25 per cent of FWTC's market capitalization. The Board of Directors of FWTC has unanimously approved the issuances and no materially contrary view or abstention was expressed or made by any director in relation to the issuances. FWTC did not file a material change report in respect of the participation of FirstLine or SCA in the issuances at least 21 days before anticipated closing as FTWC wished to close on an expedited basis for sound business reasons.

In addition to the foregoing, the Company advises that the Company and FMAC have agreed to amend the deadline for signing the definitive agreement for the Business Combination to June 4, 2024.

About Forward Water Technologies Corp.

Forward Water Technologies Corp. is a publicly traded Canadian company dedicated to saving the earth's water supply using its patented Industrial Forward Osmosis (iFO) technology. The Company was founded by GreenCentre Canada, a leading technology innovation centre supported by the government of Canada. The Company's technology enables the extraction of clean water from challenging process and waste streams that conventional technologies can not be operated on. Due to its high-water extraction ability, iFO is used in DLE processes for the hyper-concentrating of lithium prior to conversion. The Company's mandate is to focus on the large-scale implementation of its technology in multiple sectors, including industrial wastewater, oil and gas, mining, agriculture and ultimately municipal water supply and re-use market sectors.

For more information, please visit www.forwardwater.com.

Contact Information

For more information or interview requests, please contact:

C. Howie Honeyman - Chief Executive Officer

howie.honeyman@forwardwater.com

519-333-5888

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws including statements regarding the use of proceeds of the financing, potential closing of the Business Combination, the expansion and uptake of the Company's technology and the ability for the Company to achieve its growth strategy and business plan. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions, including, the ability to scale the technology and the adoption of the technology by potential customers.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in Canada, the United States and globally; unanticipated operating events; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company as set forth in the Company's continuous disclosure filings filed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

SOURCE: Forward Water Technologies Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
OncoveryCare, a Boston, MA-based company providing a whole-person care to cancer survivors, raised $4.5M in Seed funding.

The round was led by .406 Ventures alongside the McKay Institute for Oncology Transformation at Tennessee Oncology.

The company intends to use the funds to continue growing its care delivery model, as well as develop novel tools and approaches to scale access to survivorship care more broadly.

Led by CEO Hil Moss, and Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Justin Grischkan, OncoveryCare is launching with a virtual care model for cancer survivorship, equipping patients with a wraparound care team of survivorship-trained clinicians. Initial areas of focus include toxicity management, mental health support, navigation and care planning, and preventative care.

To bring this new model to life, OncoveryCare also announced a partnership with Tennessee Oncology, which will allow the company to offer its care model to patients across Tennessee.

FinSMEs

24/05/2024
UL Solutions (NYSE:ULS), a Northbrook, IL-based company which specializes in applied safety science, acquired BatterieIngenieure, a battery testing company based in Aachen, Germany.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

The acquisition augments UL Solutions global battery testing footprint with a laboratory in Europe.

BatterieIngenieure provides comprehensive testing, simulation and failure analysis of battery technologies, with distinctive expertise in battery life expectancy estimation. The company employs more than 50 people, including leading battery researchers.

Led by President and CEO Jennifer Scanlon, UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support its customers product innovation and business growth.

The acquisition complements other UL Solutions battery testing capabilities and facilities, including its E-Mobility and Energy Laboratory in Changzhou, China; the Korea Advanced Battery Laboratory in Pyeongtaek, South Korea; and the North America Advanced Battery Laboratory under construction in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

FinSMEs

23/05/2024
One of the most dangerous and common threats for businesses is phishing attacks. They are not as rare as we might imagine, as a matter of fact, usually they involve little mistakes from people within the organization.

It is demonstrated that 43% of employees have made mistakes that have compromised cybersecurity at least once.

Any business in the modern era needs to protect against data breaches and for this, phishing awareness training is key. Phishing training is an approach for cybersecurity education used by business owners and entrepreneurs to prepare their employees for attack attempts.

Investing in phishing awareness training can empower you and your team to recognize and pivot strategies to avoid malicious attempts.

Lets dive into why this training is key for the safety and success of your business:

The Threat Behind Phishing Attacks

What is Phishing, Anyway?

Phishing is one of the most common types of cyber attacks nowadays. During an attack, hackers will try to scheme people through email, text messages, phone calls, and other forms of communication.

Their main goal is to obtain private and sensitive data such as financial information, credentials, passwords, or any other useful details for their illicit activities.

Unfortunately, phishing involves psychological manipulation, usually, cybercriminals pretend to be prestigious entities to trick users into taking action.

This could involve just clicking links, downloading or installing files, and of course, sharing private information, like bank account numbers or credit card information.

How Does it Impact Your Business?

The repercussions of a phishing attack on your business could be huge. You could lose valuable and sensitive data, not only from your company but also from your clients. Also, you could suffer financial damage, wreck your reputation, and interrupt operations causing devastating economic consequences.

The moments after suffering a successful phishing attack can be very chaotic and stressful for your whole team.

Cybercriminals are likely to aim at active industries and poles. The state of Florida ranks 6th in the list of most affected by phishing scams states. Ranking between the 10 most attacked states in the United States is a concerning fact for many citizens.

Without a doubt, all companies want to avoid suffering a phishing attack, and one of the best precautions to take is to educate the internal team.

Why You Should Invest in Training

Educating Your Team

Your employees could be your best allies when protecting from cyber attacks, but also the first ones to commit innocent mistakes and cause a disaster.

They have access to your systems and information, so they should be the firsts to have the proper information. Phishing awareness training will grant them knowledge and skills to identify suspicious emails, links, and attachments.

Taking Precautionary Measures

Investing in phishing awareness training is not just cautious; its a strategic investment in the security of your business.

But even if you make sure to prepare your whole team to avoid leeches, they should also be ready to take action in case something happens. A quick response to attacks is a key part of the training and could significantly reduce the damages, even after your system has been corrupted.

Building Trust

Another silver lining of training your team is the possibility of demonstrating to your customers that you are committed to protecting their data.

Confidence and legitimacy are one of the most important assets of every business, this could help your company grow exponentially. Protecting data is an obligation and it should be taken with due respect.

Easy and Useful Tools to Protect Your Business

Phishing Simulation Tools

These helpful instruments allow you to replicate real-world phishing scenarios in a controlled environment.

You can tailor programs according to your industry and company size. You can hire an IT security team of experts to do this or get educated to do it yourself. Simulating phishing attacks and assessing your teams response can help you identify vulnerabilities and create strategies.

VPN for Data Protection

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts internet connections and protects data from possible hackers.

It doesnt matter if your team is working remotely or at an office, a Miami VPN could ensure the safety of their online activity and add one more security barrier. Its a simple tool against cyber threats that shouldnt be underestimated.

Conclusion

Now that you know the most common phishing attacks and how to properly avoid them by training your team, you can create an efficient strategy. We live in an era where cyber threats are becoming more popular, and prioritizing phishing awareness training is crucial to ensure a strong business.

The best defense is a proactive approach, not only for the management team but also for employees. Among various techniques, simulating a phishing attack, creating a good training plan, and using VPNs can make a difference for your business.
Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Suvinder Vicky, Zoya Hussain, Vipin Sharma

Director: Apoorv Singh Karki

Language: Hindi

Few actors have got the desi lingo right in their repertoire with ease. The effortlessness in the rustic swag is not easy to crack. In the recent crop of names, a certain sense of pretense is inevitable and acts as an irritant. For a 90s kid that still harps on nostalgia, the two stars that fit the bill are Govinda and Manoj Bajpayee. They have smelled the stench of rust and the fragrance of the heartland without romanticizing it. Bajpayee, in particular, rose and resurrected with two bonafide classics- Satya and Gangs Of Wasseypur.

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Its fitting and fascinating that his 100th film is called Bhaiyya Ji , another tale from the small town of India. This is also the moniker that was given to Govinda for Kill Dill and Anil Kapoor for Tashan. Whoever that is given this name cannot belong to Bandra or Cuff Parade, he has to be the man of the soil. Its these very stories bathed in the supposed backward provinces that have given us some contagious masala moments. Bhaiyya Ji is a revenge drama with some high-voltage dialoguebaazi and confrontations accompanied by a booming background score. The lines are shudh Hindi how they should be, unlike written in English and then cringingly translated in Hindi.

Revenge- A Dish Served Cold

Its always delightful to see Bajpayee hungry and pining for roles that are driven by meat. Post 2010, his enviable body of work is for everyone to see and study. The choices that he made as an actor, or the choices that were given to him rather, allowed him to explore the unthinkable possibilities he always dreamed of, right from Raajneeti to Gangs Of Wasseypur to Aligarh to Bhonsle to Bandaa. With Bhaiyya Ji, he enters into the arena of what we recognize as Mass and Masala. Its an action flick where the madness and mayhem and all the other motions are designed by action director Vijayan, who also conceived the newly found aura of Salman Khan back in 2009 with Prabhu Devas rollicking Wanted. Come to think of it, an actor once again from the North looks to the South for those big bucks. But as much as one needs to laud the actors commitment to cater to the lowest common denominator, Bhaiyya Ji still lacks the freshness to reach the finish line due to its done-to-death narrative. A revenge drama where guns and fists do all the talking is a conflict popularized by the era of the 70s, but sadly by now, that dish is getting cold, even if not necessarily stale.

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Bandaa, Bhaiyya Ji, And Badassery

The one common thread between Apoorv Singh Kirkis two titles is how the central characters badassery looms large over the plot. In that chilling courtroom drama, Bajpayee played a no-nonsense lawyer with a thriving aura whose words hit home. Here too, the characters fight for justice allows him to walk the tightrope of being both the victim and the vigilante, but for purely personal reasons. Is he a Robinhood? Is he an outlaw? Or just an ordinary family man who has been wronged? The best way to describe Bhaiyya Ji, both the hero and the title is that theres no specific definition or description. Theres a lot of badassery on display even when the drama runs out of fuel. The captain of the ship tries his darndest, but forgets hes trying to sail the ship on a deserted island.

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Rating: 2.5 (out of 5 stars)

Bhaiyaa Ji is now playing in cinemas
Returning to the world of Mad Max meant resurrecting the motorized army of Fury Road, getting it back into running condition and building an entire new fleet of gas-guzzling, mutant machines of apocalyptic doom read more

When it was time to start making Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, production designer Colin Gibson went to a garage in Australia to find some old friends.

It had been years since 2015s Fury Road wrapped production. Many of the vehicles seen in the film had been blown up or left to rust in Namibia. But a dozen of them  the dirty dozen, Gibson calls them  had been put in storage, including the War Rig, Gigahorse and Duff Wagon.

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They did need a fair amount of cleaning up, Gibson says a little wistfully. A lot of the fuel had turned to jelly and the tires sink. And it all seemed so much sadder than you remember.

Returning to the world of Mad Max meant resurrecting the motorized army of Fury Road, getting it back into running condition and building an entire new fleet of gas-guzzling, mutant machines of apocalyptic doom.

As terrific as the cast of  Furiosa  is, including Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, lets be real. The true stars of any Mad Max movie are the vehicles. The characters and actors of Mad Max may come and go across the sagas 45 years, but the marauding mechanized horde keeps chugging.

In a sense, theyre characters  theyre extensions of the characters, Miller says. You see it right through the Mad Max films. The V8 Inceptor is an extension of Max. Furiosa ultimately has that vehicle we call the Cranky Black thats an expression of who she is at the end of the movie.

Furiosa, which opened in theaters Thursday, takes place years ahead of the events of Fury Road, so the War Rig and company arent called back into duty until the end of the film. But they were a necessary reference point for all the cars and trucks that lead up to that finale. Furiosa is a prequel for more than its title character.

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We did use the idea of those other vehicles to build an evolution in, says Gibson. So we would drop in vehicles that looked in embryo like some of the vehicles that had since been destroyed or gone to gold or been exploded off in Africa.

Gibson is a longtime collaborator of Millers whose fervor for doing things practically and as realistically as possible is nearly as extreme as the War Boys zeal for Valhalla. That was a big part of the kinetic thrill of Fury Road. And while that film included CGI in nearly every shot to accomplish its explosive onslaught, Furiosa depended on a bit more effects to realize its post-apocalyptic world.

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I dont like easy, he says. We dont operate very well under easy. Its one of my ongoing arguments with George. I prefer uneasy, which may be why Im so annoying.

Production designers might build the facade of a house or even an entire shell, but they dont have to install working plumbing. Gibsons creations, though, have to move. Most have working engines and when the director says Action! they have to move. As he says, Everything has to be able to do its own stunt.

Theres a lot of hidden, unseen effort that goes into that, Miller says. Its a military exercise. Of the shooting crew, there was over a thousand people on set every day, just to keep all that stuff going.

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Gibson, who hadnt yet seen the film during an interview earlier this month, was still nursing some wounds over the fact that Furiosa contains some digital machines, too.

Unless its real, unless the sense of gravity is there, I dont think you get the hair going up on the back of your neck, Gibson says. I think thats what we achieved with Fury Road, and Ill keep my fingers crossed that the CG doesnt distance us too much in Furiosa.

It is slightly different, sighs Gibson, and Im an old-fashioned girl.

But Furiosa also had many more challenges than Fury Road, which transpires across a three-day blur. Furiosa, spanning decades, needed more locations. (Here, Gas Town and Bullet Farm are visited.) And a more sprawling array of characters meant a lot more rides.

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Dementus (Hemsworth) is a new villain whom the filmmakers styled after a fusion of Roman emperor and Genghis Khan. Early in Furiosa, he rides a chariot pulled by three motorcycles. Later, he pilots a six-wheeled monster truck.

The War Rig, the central semi-truck of Fury Road, also needed an earlier iteration for Furiosa. Whereas the Fury Road War Rig was more weathered and beaten up, Furiosa finds Immortan Joes Citadel at the height of its power.

So this is Louis the Sun King, says Gibson. This is the Palace of Versailles. This is a shiny, mirrored, godlike object racing out into the desert and reflecting all the nothing thats coming back but also emblazoned with the legend of the Immortan as he sees it himself.

Its upon that rig that Furiosa has its most lengthy and blistering sequence. And while Taylor-Joy feels a particular bond with the War Rig she spent 78 days crawling across, the thoughtful features of the Cranky Black roadster were more revelatory to her.

I love the fact there are all these details in the filmmaking that you dont even see as an audience member, Taylor-Joy says. Like, the Cranky Black has human teeth all along the inside, which is so cool.

But the defining vehicle of Furiosa may be the motorbike. Two-wheelers star in the movies frenetic start and they only populate from there, eventually filling the desert like a swarm of locusts.

George had the idea that by the time Dementus arrived at the Citadel, there might have been 2- or 3- or 4- or 6,000 motorbikes, Gibson says. I looked at how long it would take me to build that many. Do you know how hard it is to make one motorbike look different from another? Theyre basically two wheels and a seat.

That meant, to Gibsons horror, the necessity of CGI. But that didnt stop him from building some 100 characterized motorbikes, along with doubles for about half of them.

Of all the vehicles, you always love the ones that start with nothing, Gibson says. We were fortunate that BMW, Harley Davidson and Yamaha all came to the party and gave us generously of their beautiful machines knowing that there was no exclusivity and that by the time I got through with them, their mother wouldnt recognize them.

One bike has particular meaning to Gibson. He built it from an old 1940s Triumph kneeler, the kind used for racing. His mother  a bit of a devil-may-care Sheila in her youth, he says  had once worked at a speedway around such motorcycles. Gibson lavished his with detail and texture as a kind of ode to her.

If I could hang it on a key ring, Gibson says, thats probably the one Id keep.
Computer prodigy Carlo Acutis, who passed away in 2006, is all set to become the first millennial saint in Catholic history. The development comes after the announcement by Pope Francis that a miracle credited to the UK-born has been recognised, opening the door for the teens canonisation shortly read more

Acutis, 15, was put on the path of sainthood after a seven-year-old Brazilian youngster reportedly healed from a rare pancreatic illness by touching one of his t-shirts. Image Courtesy: @Sachinettiyil/X

A UK-born teenager who passed away in 2006 from leukaemia is all set to become the first millennial saint in Catholic history.

The development comes after the announcement by Pope Francis that a miracle credited to Blessed Carlo Acutis has been recognised, opening the door for the teens canonisation shortly.

Francis took the decision during a meeting with the head of the Vaticans saint-making department, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, a statement said on Thursday.

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Lets take a closer look.

About Carlo Acutis

Computer prodigy Carlo Acutis, who passed away in 2006, contributed to the online dissemination of Roman Catholic teaching, according to The Guardian.

Acutis was born in London in 1991 and spent his early years living in Milan with his Italian parents, Andrea Acutis and Antonia Salzano.

The teenager exhibited religious commitment even as a young child.

Before, at the age of three, Salzano told local newspaper Corriere della Sera that his son would want to visit the churches they passed in Milan and would give his pocket money to the citys poor.

The tomb of Carlo Acutis in Italy



Jesus is my great friend and the Eucharist my highway to Heaven" -



Carlo Acutis



Video: 206 Tours pic.twitter.com/y5BGQ6bGqh  Sachin Jose (@Sachinettiyil) May 24, 2024

According to him, Acutis would also offer to help classmates whose parents were divorcing, stand up for their peers with disabilities when they were being bullied, and offer food and sleeping bags to Milans rough sleepers.

Acutis learned how to code while still in elementary school and went on to use his knowledge to build websites for Catholic groups and a global database of miracles.

His remains and possessions were placed on display in a tomb following his death in Italy.

His journey to sainthood

Acutis, 15, was put on the path of sainthood after a seven-year-old Brazilian youngster reportedly healed from a rare pancreatic illness by touching one of his t-shirts, and a priest prayed to him on the childs behalf, as per NDTV.

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The Pope evaluated and authorised the recovery, which was declared miraculous.

Pope Francis had last canonised a person who was born in 1926. Reuters

Acutiss claim to a second miracle was accepted by Pope Francis on Thursday, making the young man eligible for canonisation.

In a second case, the family of a Florence university student who had a brain bleed following a bicycle accident was informed that she was in a critical condition.

The youngster sustained severe head trauma from the collision, according to Vatican News, which Fox News Digital cited. Medical personnel had to move part of her skull to relieve pressure on her brain. They didnt believe she would survive.

However, her daughters brain injury vanished, according to scans performed 10 days after her mother prayed for her recovery at the tomb of Acutis.

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Acutis is the only canonised person who was born in the 1990s. Pope Francis has canonised a total of 912 people and the most recent one was in 1926, as per The Guardian.

Due to his important role in evangelization through the internet, Acutis was named as a patron of last years World Youth Day in Lisbon, organisers of the event said, as per Reuters.

A person meets the requirements to become a saint in Catholicism if the Pope has approved of two miracles that are credited to them.

The Medical Council of the Congregation for Saints Causes is the specific body within the Catholic church tasked with investigating the validity of miracles.

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With inputs from agencies
China is carrying out a second day of military drills neat Taiwan, saying it is testing its ability to seize the self-ruled island. Tensions have increased in the Taiwanese Strait, with many questioning if Taipei could defend itself against Beijing in case of a direct attack. How do the two militaries compare in such a situation? read more

A Taiwan Coast Guard member monitor Chinese navy vessel operating near the Pengjia Islet north of Taiwan. Taiwan scrambled jets and put missile, naval and land units on alert Thursday over Chinese military exercises being conducted around the self-governing island democracy where a new president took office this week. AP

Its been a busy two days in the Taiwan Strait. On Friday (24 May), China began its second day of military drills targeting Taiwan, with Beijing saying they were testing its ability to seize the self-ruled island.

The war games , which include units from the air force, rocket force, navy, army, and coast guard, began on Thursday morning (23 May), days after Taiwans new president Lai Ching-te was sworn in and in his inauguration speech he had said that he hoped China would respect the choices of the people of Taiwan, and in good faith, choose dialogue over confrontation.

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On Thursday, China began military drills, dubbed Joint Sword-2024A, saying it was punishment for separatist forces seeking independence. And on Friday, Chinas Li Xi, spokesman for the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theatre Command was quoted as saying, They are testing the capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories.

Visuals of the drills showed soldiers streaming out of a building to battle stations and jets taking off to a rousing martial tune. Moreover, an animated graphic published by the Chinese military showed missiles raining down on key targets in the north, south and east of the island, declaring it would cut off the blood vessels for Taiwan independence!

Taiwan condemned the drills as irrational provocations and dispatched naval, air, and ground forces to defend the [islands] sovereignty.

Experts observe that the war exercises are Beijings way of showing Taipei that it is exposed to Chinese attack, and to show the Americans that any effort to resupply or re-enforce Taiwan from the east is vulnerable to Chinese missile strikes and naval attack.

Its also got many questioning: Can Taiwan withstand a Chinese attack if it happens? How war-ready is Taiwan?

Man vs Man

When it comes to a direct comparison between China and Taiwans military, then the latter is at a huge disadvantage. Chinas military, the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) is the largest standing army in the world with two million members. Compare this to Taiwan, which has a population of just 23 million and a military of 1,69,000 active service personnel.

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The upper hand that Taiwan possesses is that it has 1.5 million people in military reserves, compared to China, which has .5 million reserved personnel. Taiwan ranks number one in terms of reserve forces, while China is at number six.

Members of Taiwans armed forces stay in formation during a drill as part of a demonstration to show combat readiness. Taiwan has a military of 1,69,000 active service personnel. File image/Reuters

When it comes to defence budgets , Chinas defence spending dwarves Taiwans. China is the second-biggest spender on defence after the United States, with $230 billion allocated for its military. Taipei, on the other hand, in 2023 had announced that it had plans to increase its defence budget to $19.1 billion, equivalent to 2.6 per cent of its GDP.

Taiwans former president, Tsai Ing-wen, reversed years of stagnant military spending, pushing through seven consecutive increases and nearly doubling Taiwans defence budget over the course of her tenure. She also extended compulsory military service from four months to one year.

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Land power

According to Global Firepower ranking, China has 5,000 tanks in its arsenal. On the other hand, Taiwan possesses 1,010 tanks. China also boasts of having 35,000 armoured vehicles while Taiwan has just 3,472. When it comes to towed and mobile rocket projectors too, China outdoes Taiwan, putting the self-ruled island at a great disadvantage.

Up in the skies

In terms of airpower as well, China outnumbers Taiwan, with 3,304 aircraft, including the advanced J-20s. Taipei is reported to have 750 aircraft.

A helicopter and a military transport aircraft fly in the city in Taipei, Taiwan. Taipei is reported to have 750 aircraft, of which 286 are fighter warplanes. File image/Reuters

The Global Firepower index reveals that of the 3,304 aircraft in Chinas arsenal, 1,207 are fighter warplanes. Meanwhile, Taiwan has only 286 warplanes. China also has 450 specialist bomber aircraft and 286 transport aircraft, whilst Taipei only has 19 transport planes and no bombers.

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In the waters

Chinas naval strength also outdoes Taiwans. Beijing has a fleet strength of 730 ships, while Taipei has 93. The Chinese can deploy 49 destroyers and 42 frigates, as against four and 22 respectively for Taiwan.

China also boasts of three aircraft carriers. As recently as this month, Beijings third aircraft carrier, Fujian , took to the seas for its maiden sea trials. It is expected to weigh 79,000 tonnes, carrying the most potent fighter jet launch system - the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System. Taiwan, on the other hand, doesnt have a single aircraft carrier.

In addition, China has 61 submarines whereas Taiwan has four.

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A Chinese navy vessel identified as the Chinese Missile Frigate FFG 548 is seen near the Pengjia Islet north of Taiwan on Thursday. AP

Going nuclear

China has not disclosed how many warheads it has, but the US Defence Departments 2021 report on the Chinese military stated that Chinas warhead stockpile was currently estimated to be in the low-200s, while the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute put the number at 350.

China, it said, likely intends to have at least 1,000 warheads by 2030. Chinas nuclear build-up is being seen as one of the biggest threats to Western military supremacy.

Taiwan shoring up its defences

However, not all is lost for Taiwan. The self-ruled island has been shoring up its defences. Moreover, it has been improving its asymmetric warfare techniques.

In fact, since Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016, she has been working hard to reform the countrys military by raising the budget and enhancing defence programmes at home. It has also increased the weaponry it is buying from the US and other countries. In 2023 alone, Taiwan ordered $1.55 billion in weapons and services from the US, including infrared tracking systems for F-16 jets, munitions, spare parts for aircraft and technical support.

A pilot checks on a F-16 at Hualien Airbase in Taiwans southeastern Hualien county. In 2023 alone, Taiwan ordered $1.55 billion in weapons and services from the US, including infrared tracking systems for F-16 jets and more. File image/AP

Taiwan has also purchased drones, anti-tank munitions systems, Paladin Medium Self-Propelled Howitzer artillery systems, AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, Stinger surface-to-air missiles, MK-48 Mod6 Advanced Technology heavyweight torpedoes, AGM-154C JSOW air-to-ground missiles as well as field communication equipment and training packages, as per an Al Jazeera report.

Japanese support for Taiwan has also become more forceful over the past couple of years, breaking with its previous policy. In June 2021, Yasuhide Nakayama, Japans then deputy defence minister, told a conference we have to protect Taiwan, as a democratic country.

For Taiwan, if China attacked, they could learn from Ukraine, who has been quite successful in holding off the Russians. May be, they should pay closer attention to the ongoing war and learn from Kyiv.

With inputs from agencies
Closing arguments in Donald Trumps criminal hush money trial are scheduled for next week followed by jury deliberations. If declared guilty, the Republican leader would become the first former US president to be convicted of felony charges read more

Former US president Donald Trump sits for his trial at the Manhattan Criminal Court in New York City, US, on 21 May 2024. Reuters File Photo

Donald Trumps criminal hush money trial is moving to closing arguments next week. The former United States presidents fate will then lie in the hands of the jury. This is the only case against the Republican leader to reach a jury before the presidential elections in November.

As many as 22 witnesses testified in a Manhattan courtroom over the last month, with Trumps former fixer Michael Cohen being the prosecutions star witness.

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What happens during closing arguments and what if Trump is convicted?

Heres what you should know.

Day of closing arguments

Closing arguments in the first criminal trial of a former US president are slated for Tuesday (28 May).

Prosecutors with the Manhattan District Attorneys Office will present their summations first and try to convince the jury comprising of a dozen New Yorkers that Trump falsified business records to conceal an alleged sexual encounter with adult film star Stormy Daniels.

Trump denies any role in falsifying the records and rejects the claim that he had sex with the porn star.

Donald Trump is the first ex-US president to face a criminal trial. Reuters

Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Trump intentionally made or directed others to make false entries in business records, did so with intent to commit another underlying crime and sought to cover up the commission of that crime. They must also prove the 34 records in question were falsified.

Trumps lawyers face a lower burden and only need to sow sufficient doubt in jurors minds to secure an acquittal, or sway at least one holdout among the 12 to deadlock the jury and trigger a mistrial.

What next after closing arguments?

Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the hush money trial, will explain to the jury how to interpret the law and evidence during their deliberations.

Jurors will be told that they can only convict Trump if they believe he is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Deliberations could begin as soon as Wednesday.

During deliberations, jurors will have access to all of the evidence and be able to ask questions of the judge, who will confer with prosecutors and defense lawyers before deciding how to answer.

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The verdict of jurors has to be unanimous. In case of an impasse, Merchan will declare a mistrial.

Once jurors inform the court they have reached a verdict, Merchan will summon the parties to the courtroom to hear it read by the foreperson. Merchan must still affirm the verdict and enter a final judgment. Either side can ask him to effectively overrule the jury.

What if Trump is convicted?

Donald Trump could become the first former president to be convicted of felony charges.

Trump is facing 34 felony counts and has pleaded not guilty to all.

But even if he is convicted, it would likely be several weeks or months until he is sentenced. As a first-time offender of a nonviolent crime, he would likely be released on bond in the meantime.

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It is rare for people with no criminal history who are convicted only of falsification of business records to be sentenced to prison in New York. Punishments like fines or probation are more common.

Falsifying business records, which is a serious offense under New York law, attracts a punishment of up to four years of imprisonment. However, defendants are typically sentenced to a year or less in prison.

With inputs from Reuters
The second qualifier of IPL 2024 is scheduled to take place between Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad. PM Modi will address a rally in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi. In the national capital, the Supreme Court will hear the matter of actual voter numbers in the first five phases of the Lok Sabha elections which the ECI has still not released read more

Rajasthan Royals will clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad for a spot in the IPL 2024 final. X/rajasthanroyals

It is a chaotic Friday in the subcontinent, with weather relating events dominating the day.

As a heatwave continues to surge across North India, a cyclone in the Bay of Bengal is brewing. Towards the south, in Kerala, the state is experiencing incessant rain.

In Chennai, the field is set for an IPL Qualifier where Rajasthan and Hyderabad will fight it out for a spot in the finals.

PM Narendra Modi is in Himachal Pradesh to campaign for BJP during this 2024 Lok Sabha election.

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One spot left!

In Qualifier 2 of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will aim to overcome their disappointing performance in Qualifier 1 when they face Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai today.

SRH missed their initial opportunity to secure a spot in the final, suffering a heavy defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders, who have already secured their place in the IPL 2024 final.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals broke their poor run in the latter stages of the IPL by ending Royal Challengers Bengalurus (RCB) six-match winning streak.

Modi to rally for Ranaut

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a rally in support of BJPs Mandi candidate Kangana Ranaut at Padda Maidan in Mandi. Modi scheduled to speak at two public rallies in the state today.

In Mandi, Modi will rally support for Ranaut, who is facing a tough contest against Congress candidate Vikramaditya Singh, the son of six-time chief minister Virbhadra Singh and current Mandi MP Pratibha Singh. This rally is crucial for Kangana as she aims for her first electoral victory.

Himachal Pradesh will vote in the last phase of the elections, on 1 June.

Heatwave continues

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that severe heatwave conditions are expected in many areas, including Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Rajasthan, parts of West Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, and Northwest Madhya Pradesh from 20 May to 24.

Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, and Northeast Madhya Pradesh are also expected to see heatwave conditions from 20 May to 24. Warm night conditions are likely to prevail in West Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan during the same period.

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SC to hear matter related to ECI

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has not yet provided the actual voter numbers for the Lok Sabha elections conducted in the five phases. As a result, attention has turned to the Supreme Court, which is scheduled to hear the matter today.

Recently, the Supreme Court issued a notice to the EC based on an application filed by the NGO Association of Democratic Reforms. The NGO has requested that the ECI publish the absolute number of votes from all polling stations in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Additionally, the NGO has demanded that the ECI disclose the number of votes polled on its website within 48 hours of polling.

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Cyclone Remal to intesify?

A low-pressure area located over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal has shifted northeastwards. It is expected to intensify and concentrate into a depression over the central parts of the Bay of Bengal by today morning. According to IMD, this system is likely to further intensify into a cyclonic storm over the east-central Bay of Bengal by 25 May.

Following this, the cyclonic storm is projected to move nearly northwards and approach the vicinity of the Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts by the evening of 26 May, potentially as a severe cyclonic storm.

Heavy showers in Kerala

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With heavy rains persisting in several parts of Kerala, IMD issued a red alert for two districts of the state, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall in those regions. Pathanamthitta and Idukki were placed on red alert as per the latest update from the weather agency.

Additionally, authorities warned of high waves ranging from 0.4 to 3.3 meters and the possibility of sea incursions along the coast of Kerala, from Vizhinjam in the south to Kasaragod in the north, until Thursday night.

Today in History - 24 May

On 24 May, Commonwealth Day is observed, marking the birthday of Queen Victoria of England, born in 1819. This day is recognised by countries that were once part of the British Empire.

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World Events on This Day

1689 : The Toleration Act was passed by the British Parliament. This significant legislation granted limited religious freedom to Protestant nonconformists, allowing them to worship outside the Church of England and reducing persecution against dissenting Protestant groups.

1883 : The Brooklyn Bridge opened after 14 years of construction, connecting New York and Brooklyn over the East River.

1970: Engineers commenced the Kola Superdeep Borehole project, aiming to drill the worlds deepest hole. The project continued for several years, reaching a depth of about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) before it was halted in 1992.

With inputs from agencies
As the investigation into the Pune Porsche crash that killed two people continues, more startling information comes to light. New reports claim there is an attempt to frame a driver rather than the accused minor, who is currently in a remand home. The son of a well-known city builder may have also received preferential treatment while he was in police custody hours after the incident read more

The Porsche car involved in the accident that led to the death of two techies. PTI

The Pune teens case, in which he is accused of killing two people early on Sunday by speeding his fathers Rs 2.5 crore Porsche supercar while drunk, continues to dominate headlines.

As the investigation goes on, more startling information comes to light.

According to recent reports, there is an attempt to frame a driver rather than the alleged 17-year-old, who is currently in remand home .

The son of a well-known city builder may have received preferential treatment in the hours after the incident, and other potential procedure lapses are being looked into by the Pune police.

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Lets take a closer look.

Parents told driver to take blame

Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said on Friday that in order to keep the youngster out of trouble, an attempt was made to exchange drivers shortly after the accident.

It is true that at the start the driver had said that he was driving the car. We are investigating this part and also under whose pressure the driver made that statement we are investigating it. Effort was made to change the driver during that period. We are investigating this also, Kumar said during a press conference.

He denied claims that the driver was operating the expensive vehicle and claimed to have video evidence proving that the 17-year-old was driving the car.

Builder Vishal Agarwal, the teen accuseds father, is brought to Pune Police Commissioners office after his arrest, in Pune. PTI

According to an NDTV report citing Pune Police sources, the accuseds parents asked the driver to accept responsibility in exchange for money shortly after the crash.

We have CCTV footage of him drinking liquor in the pub. The point of saying this is that our case is not alone; depending on the blood report, we have other evidence also. He (the minor accused) was in his senses. It was not as if all of them were so drunk that they could not understand anything. They had full knowledge that due to their conduct, an incident like section 304 cab happen, the Pune Commissioner said.

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This follows the accused minors recent claims that the vehicle was driven by his family driver when the crash occurred. The claim was backed by his two friends who were with him at the time of the incident. The minors father Vishal Agarwal, who is currently in police custody, also said their family driver was behind the wheel.

According to PTI, the police, while seeking the custody of the minors father, had told the court on Wednesday that as the juvenile wanted to drive the car, the driver called his employer (minors father) and told him about his sons demand and it was his dad who told the driver to let his son drive the car.

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The officer said that the driver may be presented in court as a witness in the case.

Also read: Teen accused in Pune Porsche crash sent to remand home. What happens next?

Pizza, burger for the accused teen

The Opposition parties have claimed that the accused minor was given preferential treatment while he was in police custody following the stomach-churning accident.

Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi chief and two-time ex-Lok Sabha MP Prakash Ambedkar claimed on X, Officers at Yerwada Police Station spent more time questioning the relationship between Anish and Ashwini - IT professionals fatally knocked down by drunk minor -while the accused was allegedly served burger and pizza.

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He also posed six questions to the police, including the eight-hour delay in administering a blood alcohol test and why the boy wasnt sent to a remand home immediately.

According to MoneyControl, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also lashed out at Pune Police by saying, Pune Police aided a wealthy teenager who killed two young individuals Why are you serving him pizza and burgers? A video has now surfaced showing the boy consuming alcohol. Everyone knew the truth, yet they still assisted him."

He further called for the dismissal of Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar and accused an MLA from Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawars NCP faction of being present at the police station and assisting the accused.

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Investigating potential lapses

While preparing a case for the minor, while he is in remand home, the Pune Police are also investigating potential lapses in protocol.

According to another report by NDTV, Assistant Commissioner of Police Ashwini Rakh will be questioning officers and staff at the Yerwada police station where the complaint was first filed.

The police will look into the allegations of downplaying in the first write-ups the terrible circumstances surrounding the incident and postponing the medical examination that was necessary to determine the boys blood alcohol content and the claims that the police were more focused on investigating the deaths of Ashwini Koshta and Aneesh Awadhiya, two 24-year-old software workers, than the accused.

The accuseds grandfather, driver, and friend questioned

The Pune police on Thursday questioned the grandfather of the 17-year-old boy while a forensic team examined the Porsche car involved in the accident.

The minors one friend and the formers driver who were accompanying him in the car when the accident occurred in the Kalyani Nagar area, were also questioned by the crime branch officials who are probing the case.

The accuseds grandfather and his son, Vishal Agarwal, were confronted as some facts related to the case needed to be corroborated, the official said.

Since the luxury car is in the name of the realty firm owned by the Agarwals, the grandfather of the minor, who is one of the owners of the firm, was questioned in regards to the ownership of the car, he said, as per PTI.

The case

A Porsche car, allegedly driven by the minor accused, who the police claim was drunk at the time, fatally knocked down two motorbike-borne software engineers at Kalyani Nagar in the city in the early hours of Sunday.

The teenager was sent to the observation home by the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) on Wednesday.

The police have already arrested the teenagers father and his phone was also seized.

The police are collecting CCTV footage of the entire route through which the car traversed  from residence to Cosie restaurant, then to Blak Club and from there to the accident spot, to see who was driving the car.

A forensic team also examined the Porsche car which was involved in the accident.

Meanwhile, BJP leader and Rajya Sabha member Medha Kulkarni posted on X saying that the accident showed the Juvenile Justice Act needs to be reviewed as so-called minors like this boy are using the law to get away with serious crimes.

With inputs from PTI
At 16, Kaamya Karthikeyan is the youngest Indian to scale Mount Everest (8,849 metres), the highest peak in the world. She was accompanied by her father, an Indian Navy officer, whose love for mountaineering inspired her. Next on her to-do list is to conquer the highest peaks in all seven continents read more

Kaamya Karthikeyan proved that bravery knows no age. At 16, she became the youngest Indian to summit the highest peak in the world  Mount Everest (8,849 metres) from the Nepal side.

The teen not only set a record in India but also became the worlds second-youngest mountaineer to scale Everest on 20 May, the Indian Navy said on Thursday.

#IndianNavy congratulates Ms Kaamya Karthikeyan d/o Cdr S Karthikeyan on becoming the youngest #Indian & the second youngest girl in the world to summit Mt Everest from the Nepal side.

Kaamya has exhibited immense courage & fortitude in summiting the highest peaks in six of the https://t.co/t4FLsiOFUZ pic.twitter.com/WHNoPAAYOi  SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) May 23, 2024

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Kaamya was accompanied by her father, an Indian Navy officer, Commander S Karthikeyan on her expedition. From her humble beginnings in Mumbai to the worlds highest peak, heres a look a Kaamya Karthikeyans journey

1. Sixteen-year-old Kaamya is a Class 12 student at Mumbais Navy Children School. Inspired by her fathers love for mountaineering, she started trekking when she was three_._

2. It started as an adventure and soon the girl advanced to more demanding treks like Har-ki Dun (13,500ft), Kedarkantha Peak (13,500 ft), and Roopkund Lake (16,400) in 2016. By May 2017, at just 13, Kaamya accomplished another remarkable feat  she trekked to the Everest Base Camp (17,600 ft), making her the second-youngest girl globally to achieve this milestone.

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3. This is not all, In 2019, Kaamya successfully navigated challenges to conquer the famous Brighu Lake (14,100 ft) and cross the Sar Pass (13,850) in Himachal Pradesh. Soon after her expedition to Mt Mentok Kangri II (20,544 ft), Kaamya cycled her way from Leh to Khardung La, the highest memorable road in the world. This experience gave her the confidence to summit Mount Aconcagua, one of the highest peaks outside Asia, in February 2020.

5. After her successful expedition to the Everest peak, the Indian Navy and Western Naval Command took to X to congratulate her. They even wished her luck for her next mission, which is the 7 Summits Challenge.

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 #IndianNavy wishes young Kaamya the very best in her aspiration to summit the highest peaks of all seven continents, becoming the youngest girl to do so, it wrote.

5. Kaamya says her next goal is to scale Mount Vinson Massif in Antarctica this December and become the youngest girl to summit the highest peaks of all seven continents. Notably, with the Everest climb, the 16-year-old has already scaled six peaks as part of the challenge.

6. For her stirring tale of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, Kaamya was honoured with Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar in 2021 and even featured in Prime Minister Narendra Modis popular radio show Mann ki Baat.

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7. Kaamyas achievements extend beyond mountaineering to the realm of fine arts. The 16-year-old is a trained musician, having passed Grade 5 in piano and Grade 2 in guitar from the Trinity School of Music. Additionally, she has expertise in Western and Carnatic vocals, as well as Bharatanatyam dance, according to Kids Chaupal.

With inputs from agencies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, campaigning in Punjab for the seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls on 1 June, said he would have taken back the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara from Pakistan in 1971 if he was in power then. Kartarpur is sacred to the Sikhs for being the place where Guru Nanak Dev is said to have composed several hymns of the Guru Granth Sahib, established the guru ka langar tradition and named his successor Angad Dev read more

The Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara was constructed in 1925 by Maharaja of Patliala Bhupinder Singh, the grandfather of Captain Amarinder Singh. PTI

The Kartarpur Sahub Gurdwara is back in the spotlight.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, campaigning in Punjab ahead of the seventh phase of Lok Sabha polls on 1 June, claimed that he would have taken back the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara from Pakistan in 1971 if he was in power then.

For 70 years, we could have a darshan of the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara only with binoculars, Modi said.

Had Modi been there at that time, he would have taken Kartapur Sahib from them and then freed their troops, he said.

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They (Congress) did not do that, but I did as much I could, Modi added.

But why is this gurdwara significant? What do we know about its history?

Lets take a closer look:

The Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara is in Kartarpur village.

Kartarpur village, in Pakistans Narowal district, is on the west bank of the river Ravi.

It is around four-and-a-half kilometres from the International Border.

The gurdwaras foundation stone was laid in 1572. Its dome was covered in gold by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

The gurdwara was constructed in 1925 by Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singh.

He is the grandfather of Captain Amarinder Singh.

This gurdwara fell in Pakistan after Partition.

Kartarpur village is significant for being the place where Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru, spent the last 18 years of his life.

As per The Print, Guru Nanak arrived at Kartarpur in 1521 after travelling to many countries.

Duni Chand, who was governing the region, gave him 100 acres of land on the bank of river Ravi.

According to Indian Express, Guru Nanak began living here with his family  his parents, wife Mata Sulakhni and two sons Sri Chand and Lakshmi Chand.

Guru Nanak arrived at Kartarpur in 1521 after travelling to many countries. It is here that he spent the last 18 years of his life.

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Guru Nanak arrived at Kartarpur in 1521 after travelling to many countries. It is here that he spent the last 18 years of his life.

At Kartarpur, Guru Nanak practised what he preachednaam japo, kirrt karo, wand chhako (worship, work, and share)  as the path to liberation, the piece noted.

It is here that he shed his travelling garb and adopted the dress of a simple household and farmer, according to Navtej Sharma, author and ex-Indian ambassador to the United States.

Kartarpur after Guru Nanaks arrival became a place of pilgrimage for many.

Guru Nanak is said to have composed several hymns of the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, in Kartarpur.

The tradition of the guru ka langar, where everyone sits on the floor and eats together regardless of their station in life, also began here.

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Guru Nanak also introduced katha, the exposition of his composition or other issues, here.

He also framed the concept of service before self here.

It was at Kartarpur that Nanak gave the three Gs  Gurdwara, the Granth, and the Guru himself  that underpin the Sikh faith, professor JS Grewal, historian and former Vice-Chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University, told Indian Express.

He also named his successor Angad Dev here.

He installed Angad on his seat by offering him a token sum of five kauris and a coconut and then bowed before him. The guru thus became a disciple, and the disciple the guru, Grewal added.

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Guru Nanak passed away in Kartarpur on 22 September, 1539.

Dera Baba Nanak Gurdwara

The Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara is one of two gurdwaras in the area important to those of Sikh faith.

The other one is the Dera Baba Nanak Gurdwara on the Indian side.

This gurdwara is in Dera Baba Nanak city in Punjabs Gurdaspur.

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It is around one kilometre from the International Border. It is on the east bank of the river Ravi in India.

The followers of Guru Nanak built the town in his honour.

Kartarpur Corridor

The Kartarpur Corridor connects the two gurdwaras.

The Indian part of the Dera Baba Nanak-Sri Kartarpur Sahib corridor comprises a 4.1 kilometre four-lane highway from Dera Baba Nanak to International Border as well as a state-of-the-art Passenger Terminal Building (PTB).

It allows Indian pilgrims to visit the Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara in Pakistan.

Modi in his speech referred to the corridor which opened in 2019 and made it easier for Sikh pilgrims to travel to the shrine.

With inputs from agencies
The European sky shield aims to establish a unified and advanced missile defence system for several countries that make up the continent. With support from nations like Poland and Greece, the initiative has gained new momentum. However, realising its full potential requires addressing numerous strategic, political, and logistical challenges read more

There has been a fresh push for a European sky shield from Poland and Greece. Image used for representational purpose/Reuters

The push for the European sky shield has recently gained momentum with significant support from Poland and Greece. On Thursday, the Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk, and the Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis submitted a letter to the European Commission urging the creation of this unified European air and missile defence system.

What is the proposed sky shield that several European nations have been trying to build since 2022? Why is the need for this system felt?

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We explain.

What is the European sky shield initiative?

The European sky shield initiative, formally launched by Germany in October 2022, was spurred on by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The initiative seeks to enable European countries to jointly procure and train with advanced air defence systems, thus creating a robust, unified defence mechanism across the continent.

Historically, these countries have had a fragmented approach to air defence, with varying levels of capability and readiness. The sky shield initiative aims to address these disparities via a more cohesive and comprehensive defense strategy.

Whats the need for a sky shield in Europe?

The need for such a system has been starkly highlighted by recent events. Russias aggression towards Ukraine has raised serious concerns about the adequacy of the existing missile defence capabilities of several European nations.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been a vocal proponent of this initiative, arguing that a combined air defence system is more cost-effective and strategically sound than individual countries attempting to develop their own independent systems. Scholz stressed that significant investments in air defence are inevitable for Europe, and a collaborative approach would provide a stronger and more resilient defence network.

European ground-based air and missile defence capabilities. Image courtesy: CSIS

The current state of missile defence in Europe is marked by a mix of outdated and modern systems, with many countries relying on Soviet-era technology. The sky shield initiative aims to modernise and integrate these systems, leveraging advanced technologies like the Arrow 3 and Patriot systems to create a multi-layered defence network capable of addressing a wide range of threats.

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The potential benefits of a European sky shield

The European sky shield offers numerous strategic and operational benefits that could significantly enhance the continents defence capabilities. Here are some key advantages:

Strengthening deterrence: By establishing a unified and advanced missile defence system, the sky shield increases the uncertainty and risks for potential aggressors. This enhanced deterrence factor is crucial in dissuading adversaries from considering attacks, as the consequences become more unpredictable and severe, according to a commentary by Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP).

Cost-effectiveness: Pooling resources and jointly acquiring advanced defence systems allows participating nations to achieve significant cost savings. Instead of each country investing independently in expensive technology, the collaborative approach enables economies of scale and more efficient use of financial resources.

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Interoperability and integration: The sky shield promotes interoperability among European nations defence systems. By integrating various sensors, command and control assets, and weapon systems into a cohesive network, Europe can achieve a more effective and responsive defence posture. This integrated approach ensures that different systems can work seamlessly together, providing comprehensive coverage and protection.

Rapid deployment and response: With a unified defence system, European nations can respond more swiftly and effectively to emerging threats. The shared resources and coordinated training efforts facilitate quicker mobilisation and deployment of defence assets, enhancing overall readiness and response times.

Enhancing NATOs capabilities: The sky shield initiative aligns with and strengthens NATOs Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) framework. By incorporating the advanced systems into NATOs existing structure, Europe can bolster its collective defence capabilities and reinforce its commitment to the alliance.

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Challenges and the road ahead

Despite the clear benefits, the European sky shield initiative faces several significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its successful implementation.

Strategic cacophony: One of the primary challenges is the strategic cacophony problem, where domestic imperatives to develop national defense forces and industries can hinder cooperation. For instance, Polands initial absence from the sky shield due to tensions with Germany over the deployment of German Patriot systems to Poland highlights the difficulties in aligning national priorities with collective goals, according to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Navigating these domestic and strategic differences requires strong leadership and creative solutions.

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Strategic fit: The strategic fit problem involves overcoming deep national differences in strategic culture, priorities, and threat perceptions. For the sky shield to be effective, member states must reconcile their varying defence doctrines and operational approaches. This challenge is exemplified by the potential for competing initiatives, such as the French-led air defence proposal announced by President Macron. Ensuring that all participating nations feel their security interests are adequately represented is crucial for the initiatives success.

Specialisation dilemma: The specialisation dilemma refers to the reliance on others to deliver shared capabilities. Not every European nation can afford to develop and field independent air defense systems, necessitating reliance on more capable allies. Smaller nations, in particular, must depend on the broader network for protection against long-range missile threats. While NATOs existing Air Policing and Air Shielding missions provide some degree of specialisation, further coordination and mutual reliance are necessary to address this challenge effectively.

Technological and logistical hurdles: Implementing the sky shield requires addressing various technological and logistical challenges. Integrating different defence systems from multiple countries into a single, cohesive network is a complex task that demands significant technical expertise and coordination. Ensuring seamless communication and interoperability among diverse systems is essential for the initiatives success.

Political unity and commitment: Achieving political unity and sustained commitment among participating nations is another critical challenge. The initiative requires continuous political will and financial investment from all member states. Any wavering in commitment or shifts in political priorities could undermine the projects progress and effectiveness.

Members of the European sky shield initiative as of early 2023. Image source: CSIS

Industrial and economic considerations: The sky shield initiative also needs to address industrial and economic considerations. Ensuring that the procurement process is fair and transparent, and that it supports the European defence industrys growth, is essential. Balancing these economic interests with strategic objectives requires careful planning and negotiation.

The European sky shield represents a significant step towards a more integrated and robust air and missile defense system for Europe. With support from nations like Poland and Greece, the initiative has gained new momentum. However, realising its full potential requires addressing numerous strategic, political, and logistical challenges. The road ahead is complex, but with concerted efforts and sustained commitment, the European sky shield can become a cornerstone of Europes defense architecture, ensuring greater security and stability for the continent.

With inputs from agencies
UK prime minister Rishi Sunaks early election call and the subsequent shelving of his flagship policies have significantly impacted his campaign. The inability to deliver on key promises has not only embarrassed his administration but also undermined the confidence of his party and the public read more

For the Conservatives in the United Kingdom, the Rwanda deportation bill, as well as the recently proposed smoking ban for a certain age group have been their flagship policies in recent times. Now, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announcing snap elections, these policies have been shelved. They can not come into effect before the elections begin.

This development has adversely affected Sunaks campaign.

We explain why the policies have been shelved and how they are negatively impacting the incumbent PMs bid for a new term.

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The unexpected election call

On Wednesday afternoon, Conservative MPs were caught off guard by Rishi Sunaks sudden decision to call for an early general election. Even senior cabinet ministers were left in the dark on purpose. To keep the decision under wraps, they had even been sent a fake agenda for their meeting for the day.

This abrupt move sparked a range of emotions within the party, from enthusiasm to outrage. It has also affected policies that are in the pipeline.

The Rwanda policy setback

The Rwanda immigration policy has been a cornerstone of the Conservative Partys approach to handling the immigration crisis in the UK. Initially proposed over two years ago, the policy aimed to deport people who crossed the English Channel in small boats to come to the UK. A small fraction of them would be shipped off to Rwanda. Sunak had earlier promised that the first flight carrying illegal immigrants to the African nation would take off before the elections.

However, on the first day of his campaign, Sunak backtracked. He admitted that these deportations would not take place before the election. The election is about the future, Sunak stated. If Im elected, Im going to get those flights off, he said in response to a BBC reporters question.

The smoking ban delay

Another flagship policy of the Tories was his promise to ban young people from ever being able to buy tobacco legally, with the aim of creating a smoke-free next generation. However, this promise was left in doubt as the tobacco and vapes bill was conspicuously absent from the final business in the House of Commons. Leader of the Commons Penny Mordaunt did not include the bill among the legislation set to be rushed through by MPs before parliament was to be prorogued on Friday.

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Media reports indicated that the bill could not be pushed through due to the constraints of a free vote within the limited legislative timeframe.

Implications for Sunaks campaign

The shelving of the Rwanda and smoking policies has severely dented Sunaks campaign credibility. These setbacks highlight his inability to fulfill the ambitious promises he made, which in turn fuels frustration among Tory MPs and supporters who had hoped these measures would address critical issues such as immigration and public health.

Embarrassment and erosion of credibility: Sunaks inability to deliver on these flagship policies underscores a broader issue of credibility. His failure to implement the Rwanda deportation plan, a policy that had been promoted as a tough stance on immigration, reveals a significant gap between his promises and actual deliverables. This discrepancy is likely to erode trust among his supporters and the wider electorate, who may view his campaign pledges with increased scepticism. According to the latest Ipsos poll results, conducted as local election results were announced in early May, 62 per cent of the general public say the current Conservative government has been running the country poorly.

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Internal party frustration: The backlash from within his party cannot be underestimated. A former minister expressed their dismay, saying, If the PM truly believed in the plan, which ministers have spent so much time getting right, he would have seen it through, whatever it took. Instead, it will be difficult if not impossible to defend because it has not been shown to work. Tory MPs and senior figures who had backed the Rwanda plan are now left in a difficult position, having to defend policies that have not been executed. The frustration among these members could lead to a lack of cohesion and support within the party, further weakening Sunaks position as he heads into the election.

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Opposition attacks: The Labour Party has been quick to capitalise on these setbacks. Labour leader Keir Starmer seized the opportunity to criticize Sunak, asserting, I dont think hes ever believed that plan is going to work, and so he has called an election early enough to have it not tested before the election.

By framing Sunak as a leader who makes grand promises but fails to deliver, Labour can strengthen its appeal to voters who are disillusioned with the current governments performance.

How Sunak handles this remains to be seen.

With inputs from agencies
Kabosu, the Shiba Inu dog, famous for her quizzical expression featured in numerous doge internet memes, has died, her owner confirmed on Friday. In 2013, a picture of Kabosu giving a slight side-eyed look went viral on Tumblr and other various online chatrooms, eventually becoming known as doge, one of the most iconic and recognisable images of the social media meme rampage read more

Representations of cryptocurrency Dogecoin are seen in this illustration taken 16 June, 2022. Reuters

Kabosu, the dog behind the doge meme, has died after 14 years of internet fame, her owner Atsuko Sato announced in a poignant poem on her blog. The Japanese Shiba Inu inspired a generation of online jokes and became the face of the Dogecoin cryptocurrency. Kabosu had been suffering from leukemia and liver disease and passed away on 24 May.

She quietly passed away as if asleep while I caressed her, wrote Sato, expressing gratitude to Kabosus fans. I think Kabo-chan was the happiest dog in the world. And I was the happiest owner.

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Taking to X, Dogecoin also paid tribute to Kabosu saying, The impact this one dog has made across the world is immeasurable. She was a being who knew only happiness and limitless love.

Today Kabosu, our community's shared friend and inspiration, peacefully passed in the arms of her person. The impact this one dog has made across the world is immeasurable.



She was a being who knew only happiness and limitless love.



Please keep her spirit and her family in  Dogecoin (@dogecoin) May 24, 2024

As a rescue dog, Kabosus exact birthday was unknown, but Sato estimated her age to be 18 and celebrated Kabosus birthday on 2 November. Sato also informed that there would be a farewell party for Kabo-chan on 26 May in Narita city.

Kabuso & Sato - pet & owner

Kabosu was a pedigree dog who ended up in an animal shelter after her puppy mill shut down. She was adopted in 2008 by Atsuko Sato, a Japanese kindergarten teacher, who named her after the citrus fruit kabosu because she thought the dog had a round face like the fruit.

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In late December 2022, it was reported that Kabosu was seriously ill with leukemia, though Sato later noted an improvement in her health.

62-year-old Atsuko Sato holds Kabosu. AFP

In Japan, Kabosu and Sato are known more as pet and owner than as an internet meme. Their blog, Taking a Walk with Kabosu-chan, was the fourth most popular pet-related blog in Japan as of December 2013.

In 2023, a $100,000 monument featuring Satos sofa and Kabosu was installed in a park in Sakura, Chiba in Japan. It was crowdfunded by Own The Doge, a cryptocurrency organisation dedicated to the meme.

The unveiling ceremony of the monument was held as part of DOGE DAY, an event organised by Kabosu fans. X

Sato and Own The Doge have made significant donations to international charities, including over US$1 million to Save the Children. Save the Children has described this contribution as the single largest crypto contribution it has ever received.

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Doge - one of the most popular memes on the internet

Kabosu first appeared in a 2010 blog post by Sato. Variations of these pictures, with overlaid Comic Sans text, were later posted on a Tumblr blog called Shiba Confessions. The intentionally misspelled term Doge dates back to June 2005, when it was mentioned in an episode of Homestar Runners puppet series.

Reflecting on the meme, Sato said, To be honest, some pictures are strange for me, but its still funny! Im very impressed with their skills and taste. Around me, nobody knows about the Doge meme. Maybe I dont understand memes very well, because Im living such an analog life.

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Sato also expressed that she had learned the risk of the internet is that anyone in the world can see my life on my blog.

The meme began to gain popularity after it was featured in an October 2010 Reddit post titled LMBO LOOK @ THIS FUKKEN DOGE.

Based on a 2010 photograph of Kabosu, the meme gained significant traction in late 2013, being named Know Your Memes top meme of that year.

The original photo of Kabosu that led to the meme. Atsuko Satos blog

Doge uses two-word phrases where the first word is almost always one of five modifiers: so, such, many, much, and very. The departure from correct English involves using these modifiers with words they cannot properly modify.

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For instance, Much respect. So noble. uses the Doge modifiers correctly, but the proper Doge version would be Much noble, so respect. Additionally, a typical Doge utterance often ends with a single word, most commonly wow, but sometimes amaze or excite.

A typical doge meme. X

Online searches for the meme started to rise in July 2013. In August 2013, images of the meme were spammed on Reddits r/MURICA subreddit by users from 4chans random imageboard, /b/. By late December 2013, even members of the US Congress were creating content in the style of the meme.

The picture later became an NFT digital artwork that sold for $4 million. It also inspired Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency initially started as a joke by two software engineers. Several online polls and media outlets recognised Doge as one of the best Internet memes of the 2010s.

Other dogs also joined in the meme frenzy

Since the inception of the meme, several variations and spin-offs have emerged. One variation is liquified Doge, where the dogs shape is morphed into other animals. Another is ironic Doge, which places the Doge character in ironic and uncharacteristic situations.

The ironic Doge memes have given rise to several related characters, often dogs themselves, including Cheems, another Shiba Inu known for a speech impediment that adds the letter M throughout its speech. Walter, a Bull Terrier character, is typically portrayed as enjoying moster trucks [sic] and firetrucks.

Cheems Balltze (left) is a Shiba Inu dog; Walter (right) is a Bull Terrier dog. Instagram/X

These memes are predominantly found on subreddits like r/dogelore. One popular meme in 2020 was Swole Doge vs. Cheems, which contrasts a muscular Doge representing something considered better in the past with a baby Cheems representing its modern version.

Another Shiba Inu featured in the meme is Suki, a female dog belonging to photographer Jonathan Fleming from San Francisco. Flemings wife accidentally shrunk a scarf in the wash, and he took a photograph of Suki wearing the scarf outside on a cold night in February 2010.

San Francisco-based Shiba Inu dog Suki. Jonathan Flemings blog

Other characters used in the meme are based on photographs of real dogs. Cheems is based on an image of a dog named Balltze from Hong Kong. Balltze was adopted at the age of one and was nine years old in 2020. He had leukemia and was undergoing thoracentesis (the draining of fluid from his chest) when he passed away on 18 August, 2023, at the age of 12.

Walter is based on the bull terrier Nelson, who became popular in 2018 after his owner, Victoria Leigh, posted a picture of him on X with the caption When u open the front-facing camera on accident. In 2020, rumours of Nelsons death began circulating on the internet, but they turned out to be false.

The US$23 billion joke - Dogecoin

In December 2013, Dogecoin was introduced as a new cryptocurrency, becoming the first cryptocurrency based on an internet meme. Created by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, the currency was initially meant to mock the rampant speculation in cryptocurrencies at the time. Dogecoin is often regarded as the first meme coin and specifically the first dog coin. Despite its humorous origins, some view it as a legitimate investment opportunity.

Dogecoin features the face of Kabosu as its logo. Launched on 6 December, 2013, it quickly garnered its own online community. Dogecoin reached its peak market capitalisation of over US$85 billion on 5 May, 2021.

A representation of cryptocurrency Dogecoin is seen in this illustration taken on 6 August, 2021. Reuters

Dogecoin has garnered support from notable figures such as hip-hop star Snoop Dogg and Kiss bassist Gene Simmons.

However, its most enthusiastic supporter is billionaire Elon Musk. Musk frequently jokes about Dogecoin on his social media platform X, often sending its value soaring. He has referred to Dogecoin as the peoples crypto, contributing to its widespread popularity and cultural impact.

Dogecoin has since become the eighth-most valuable cryptocurrency, with a current market capitalisation of US$23 billion.

Also Read: BlockDAG beats Dogecoins volatility & Toncoins market rise; aims $20 pricing by 2027
Recent polling of young voters in the US, revealing their top concerns for the 2024 US presidential election, indicates a lack of awareness regarding certain controversial remarks made by former US president Donald Trump. Among these are his 2016 proposal to ban Muslims from entering the US and his widely criticised statement in 2017 saying that there were very fine people on both sides on the White supremacist protests in Virginia read more

Former US President Donald Trump sits in Manhattan Criminal Court during his ongoing hush money trial, 20 May, 2024, in New York. AP

The enduring presence of Donald Trump in the public consciousness has seemingly outlasted some of his most controversial statements , particularly among young voters in the US. A recent polling memo from Democratic firm Blueprint highlights this trend, revealing that only 42 per cent of voters recall Trumps call for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the US.

Similarly, a mere 35 per cent remember his disparaging remarks about American soldiers who died in the First World War, labelling them as losers and suckers.

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This lack of awareness among young voters can be attributed to the timing of these comments, which occurred when many of them were just nine or 10 years old.

In contrast, 72 per cent of this demographic were familiar with Trumps claims of election fraud in the 2020 election, largely due to his persistent focus on this topic for two years.

It might shock those of us who eat, sleep, and breathe politics, but young voters really dont remember the daily controversies of the Trump years and grew up understanding this kind of rhetoric as politics as usual, said Blueprint Lead Pollster Evan Roth Smith.

Looking at these heard of and bothered by statements in tandem, Democrats can seize opportunities to resurface Trumps most flagrant 2016-era instances of sexism, racism, and denigration of immigrant communities with young voters who have simply never heard them before. However, Trumps more recent statements about the 2020 election and language that questions democratic institutions do not carry the same weight with this generation.

Young voters unaware but concerned

The polling involved presenting 943 voters aged 18-30 with various controversial quotes from Trump and gauging their awareness and level of offense.

The results showed that fewer than half of registered voters in this age group were aware of Trumps 2016 Muslim ban, his statement about very fine people on both sides in Charlottesville, or his disparagement of former US Senator John McCains war hero status.

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However, the majority of young voters expressed offense at all these quotes, as well as others.

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gestures during a campaign rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin, US, 2 April, 2024. Reuters

Of particular concern to young voters were Trumps quotes that objectified women, vilified immigrants, and a recent remark at the Black Conservative Federation gala where he suggested that Black voters supported him because of his legal troubles. In February this year, Trump made a suggestion that his criminal indictments and even his mug shot might appeal to Black voters, claiming that whats happening to (him) happens to them."

The mug shot, weve all seen the mug shot, and you know who embraced it more than anybody else? The Black population. Its incredible. You see Black people walking around with my mug shot, you know they do shirts, he had claimed.

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What were the most and least heard Trump statements?

The most widely heard Trump statements include:

72% heard : Claiming that the 2020 election was rigged and stolen from him.

67% heard : Calling the COVID-19 virus the Chinese virus and kung flu.

62% heard : You know, Im automatically attracted to beautiful - I just start kissing them. Its like a magnet. Just kiss. I dont even wait. And when youre a star they let you do it. You can do anything.  Grab them by the psy. You can do anything.

59% heard: When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending the best. Theyre not sending you theyre sending people that have lots of problems and theyre bringing those problems with us. Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.

The least widely heard Trump statements include:

35% heard : Saying that Jews who support Democrats hate Israel and hate their religion.

35% heard : Saying that he did not want to visit a cemetery of Americans who died fighting in World War I because they were losers and suckers.

36% heard : 26,000 unreported sexual assaults in the military-only 238 convictions. What did these geniuses expect when they put men & women together?

37% heard: Saying in 2017 that Haitian immigrants to the United States all have AIDS and that Nigerian tourists would never go back to their huts after seeing America.

Also Read: The Apprentice at Cannes: The controversy around Trump film showing him raping his wife, getting liposuction

What are the most and least bothersome Trump statements?

Among young voters, the most bothersome Trump statements include:

62% bothered (49% bothered a lot, 65% independents) : You know, Im automatically attracted to beautiful - I just start kissing them. Its like a magnet. Just kiss. I dont even wait. And when youre a star they let you do it. You can do anything. Grab them by the psy. You can do anything.

62% bothered (45% bothered a lot, 62% independents) : When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending the best. Theyre not sending you theyre sending people that have lots of problems and theyre bringing those problems with us. Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.

61% bothered (43% a lot, 56% independents) : I got indicted a second time, and a third time, and a fourth time. And a lot of people said thats why the Black people like meIm being indicted for you, the Black populationThe mugshot, weve all seen the mugshot, and do you know who embraced it more than anybody else? The Black population, its incredible, you see Black people walking around with my mugshot.

61% bothered (44% a lot, 63% independents): Saying that two non-white congresswomen who originally came from countries whose governments are a complete and total catastrophe, the worst, most corrupt and inept anywhere in the world should go back and help fix the totally broken and crime-infested places from which they came

The least bothersome Trump statements include:

46% bothered : Calling the top elections official in Georgia and telling him All I want to do is this. I just want to find 11,780 votes, which is one more than we have

50% bothered (31% a lot) : [John McCains] not a war hero. Hes a war hero because he was captured. I like people who werent captured.

50% bothered (32% bothered a lot, 52% independents) : Saying that Jews who support Democrats hate Israel and hate their religion

50% bothered (36% bothered a lot): Claiming that the 2020 election was rigged and stolen from him.

I see it with my students all the timethey werent really aware of politics yet during his [Trumps] presidency and think its just cringey millennials being obsessed with trump, a Reddit user commented on a post displaying the poll.

Trump ahead in polls

According to a recent CNN poll conducted by SSRS, Trump maintains an advantage over US President Joe Biden as the campaign progresses, alongside developments in the former US presidents criminal trial . Looking ahead to a potential rematch, public opinions regarding the first terms of both candidates favour Trump. Most Americans now view Trumps presidency as successful, while a large majority considers Bidens term thus far to be a failure.

Then-US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden participate in their second 2020 presidential campaign debate at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, US, 22 October, 2020. File Image/Reuters

In the poll, Trumps support among registered voters remains stable at 49 per cent in a head-to-head contest against Biden, mirroring a previous national poll in January. Bidens support currently stands at 43 per cent, which is not significantly different from the 45 per cent recorded in January.

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The 2024 United States presidential election is set to take place on Tuesday, 5 November, 2024. The winner of this election is scheduled to be inaugurated on 20 January, 2025. This election will coincide with other important elections, including those for the US Senate, House of Representatives, gubernatorial positions, and US state legislatures.

Also Read: Who is Allan Lichtman, the Nostradamus of US presidential polls? What are his predictions for Biden vs Trump?

Key campaign issues for the 2024 election include abortion, immigration, healthcare, education, the economy, foreign policy, border security, LGBT rights, climate change, and democracy.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 1,66,000 people died as a result of heat waves between 1998 and 2017. India reported 3,812 deaths due to heat waves between 2015 and 2022, with Andhra Pradesh alone logging 2,419 fatalities, the government told Parliament in July last year. read more

As temperatures soar across India, at least 16,344 suspected heatstroke cases and 60 deaths have been reported since March 1st, Mint quoted data from the National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC) as saying.

According to the data quoted by Mint, since March 1st 32 people have succumbed to heatstroke, while 28 deaths are suspected to be heatstroke-related. The country has seen a significant surge in suspected heatstroke cases, totaling 16,344 since March, with 486 cases reported on May 22nd alone.

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Large parts of India sweltered under a heat wave for the seventh day on the trot on Thursday, with the mercury soaring to 48.8 degrees Celsius in Rajasthans Barmer, the highest temperature recorded in the country this year so far.

The new suspected heatstroke cases and deaths are reported every 24 hours, which is updated by the states/UTs across the country on a centralized platform while cumulative figures are since March 1," Mint quoted sources in the ministry as saying.

Considering the present heatwave scenario prevailing across the northern and central parts of the country, the Centre has issued a fresh advisory to all states/Union territories to ensure that all hospitals must be prepared to tackle health-related illness and hospitals should have the availability of adequate quantities of essential medicines, I.V. fluids, ice packs, ORS and all necessary equipment," he told Mint on condition of anonymity.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several northern and northwestern states, including Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana, until May 28th. Specifically, severe heatwave conditions are forecasted in Delhi, most parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh until May 28th, with a red alert extended to west Uttar Pradesh from May 26th to May 28th.

Official data showed that at least 16 places in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh recorded maximum temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius or above on Thursday.

High night temperatures are considered dangerous because the body doesnt get a chance to cool down. Increasing nighttime heat is more common in cities because of the urban heat island effect, in which metro areas are significantly hotter than their surroundings.

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According to the World Health Organization, more than 1,66,000 people died as a result of heat waves between 1998 and 2017. India reported 3,812 deaths due to heat waves between 2015 and 2022, with Andhra Pradesh alone logging 2,419 fatalities, the government told Parliament in July last year. People are less productive during hot weather, and children struggle to learn.

According to a World Bank report, India could account for 34 million of the projected 80 million global job losses from heat stress-associated productivity decline by 2030. With 75 per cent of workers in India experiencing heat-related stress, lost labour from rising heat and humidity could result in a loss of up to 4.5 per cent of Indias Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (equivalent to approximately USD 150-250 billion) by the end of this decade, according to a report by the McKinsey Global Institute.

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With inputs from agencies.
The legal dispute between Patkar and Saxena began in 2000, when the lieutenant governor headed the National Council for Civil Liberties, an NGO with its headquarters in Ahmedabad. Due to his publication of advertising disparaging her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan, the activist had filed a lawsuit against him read more

A Delhi court was hearing the lawsuit, which had been filed in 2006. Raghav Sharma, the Metropolitan Magistrate, issued the conviction order Image Courtesy PTI

The founder of the Narmada Bachao Andolan, Medha Patkar, was found guilty in a criminal defamation action brought by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena of Delhi. Patkar may be subject to a fine, a two-year jail sentence, or both.

A Delhi court was hearing the lawsuit, which had been filed in 2006. Raghav Sharma, the Metropolitan Magistrate, issued the conviction order.

The legal dispute between Patkar and Saxena began in 2000, when the lieutenant governor headed the National Council for Civil Liberties, an NGO with its headquarters in Ahmedabad. Due to his publication of advertising disparaging her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan, the activist had filed a lawsuit against him.

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Additionally, Saxena had filed two lawsuits against the activists for releasing a defamatory news release and for making derogatory comments about him on a TV channel in 2006.

40,000 homes may be impacted by the Sardar Sarovar Dam project in Gujarat, according to the Narmada Bachao Andolan, which made its initial claims in 2017. It has planned large-scale demonstrations, threatening to force the families from their potentially inundated houses.

Since Jawaharlal Nehru, the prime minister of the time, lay the projects foundation stone in 1961, it has been mired in controversy.
IndiGo reported a profit of Rs 1,894.8 crore in the quarter ending March 2024, up by a whopping 106 per cent from Rs 919 crore in the same period last fiscal read more

IndiGo, one of Indias biggest low-cost airlines, began its commercial operation on August 4, 2006, to cater to travellers who do not want to waste time, money or energy in the process of travelling. The first flight connected Delhi and Imphal.

The introductory fares ranged from Rs 999 to Rs 3,598.

Cut to 2024, IndiGo now boasts a fleet of 350 plus aircraft. The airline now operates around 2,000 flights daily, connecting more than 85 domestic destinations and over 30 international destinations.

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IndiGo, first Indian carrier, to post Rs 1 lakh crore profit

The budget airline, on Thursday, reported a profit of Rs 1,894.8 crore in the quarter ending March 2024, up by a whopping 106 per cent from Rs 919 crore in the same period, last fiscal.

The annual profit reported by IndiGo in FY24 was Rs 8,172.5 crore, against a loss of Rs 306 crore in the previous fiscal.

The rise was credited to higher traffic, increased capacity and a favourable external environment.

Now, IndiGo to start business class

The above results were accompanied by news that IndiGo, by the end of 2024, will have business class on its flights on the busiest sectors and routes that they fly.

IndiGo said that it will launch a tailor-made business product and more details on it will be shared by the airline around August when it will celebrate its 18th anniversary.

At present, IndiGo offers only economy and premium economy seats on its A320 fleet of planes.

Considering Indias soaring economy and the evolving aspirations of Indian society, its time for IndiGo to redefine premium travel in India, increasing the availability of this service for the nation. It will create a desired option for many who are aiming to travel business, perhaps for the first time in their lives, the airline said in a statement.

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How will business class help IndiGo?

With its decision to include business class, IndiGo aims to fill the void left by Jet Airways in the business segment. It also will help the airline compete with the Tata Group-owned Air India.

Which domestic competitors of IndiGo have business class?

Among the low-cost carriers, AI Express and Akasa have 2x2 seats in the first few rows on some of their new Boeing 737 MAX. SpiceJet too has a business offering.

Vistara, which will soon merge with Air India, also offers business class.

Adding a new tag

From its inception, IndiGo grew by leaps and bounds, making flying a much more affordable commodity in India. With more flights, covering more routes and catering to multiple fliers, it gradually shed away its low-cost tag and began identifying itself as affordable as it moved towards being premium.

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Fleet expansion

Less than a month ago, IndiGo announced that it would buy 30 wide-body aircraft.

In an interview with the Economic Times in March, IndiGo chief financial officer Gaurav Negi said the airlines focus has been to double its fleet size by 2030 while continuing to keep a strict check on cost.

IndiGo market value

In April, IndiGo became the worlds third most valuable airline by its market capitalisation.

IndiGo, valued at Rs 1,762 crore. While Delta Air Lines stood as the second most valued airline at Rs 3,044 crore, the Irish company Ryan Air stood firmly as the worlds no. 1 in terms of market capitalisation at Rs 3,375 crore.

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IndiGo leads with 60 per cent of the domestic aviation market share and a significant 10 per cent share in the international market, behind Air India with 26 per cent share and many other players that amount to a cumulative 44 per cent, a report by Nuvama said.

How IndiGo came up?

Rahul Bhatia, who went on to become one of the founders of IndiGo, started his own travel company InterGlobe in 1988. InterGlobe is today known as IndiGo.

In 2004, Bhatia got an airline license from where the journey of IndiGo started. He placed an order for 100 aircraft worth $6.5 billion at the 2005 Paris Air Show. In August 2006, IndiGo took to the sky and had its first flight.

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Within a year, Indigo added 15 more aircraft to its fleet and by 2010, IndiGo revolutionised the aviation industry with sales of Rs 2,664 crore.

The airlines focus was on economy class with each aircraft accommodating 180 passengers.

In 2011, IndiGo got a license to operate international flights and Bhatia ordered 180 Airbus A320neo aircraft worth around $15 billion.

In 2015, InterGlobe, IndiGos parent company, launched an IPO worth Rs 3,008.5 crore. The IPO received 6.63 times more bids than expected, valuing IndiGo at Rs 44,290 crore.

The COVID-19 pandemic also hit IndiGo hard. As passenger revenues dropped sharply due to the lockdown, IndiGo ramped up its cargo operations to cater to the high demand for transporting essential supplies. During the lockdown, the airline flew to China, the Middle East and other countries carrying a decent amount of cargo.

IndiGo also offered the Union Civil Aviation Ministry its resources, aircraft and crew to transport medicine, equipment and relief material from one country to another.
Kartapur Sahib, the place where Guru Nanak spent the last few days of his life, holds sentimental significance for Sikhs in India. Every year Pakistan issues thousands of visas to Indian Sikhs during the festival of Baisakhi read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi would have taken Kartarpur Sahib from Pakistan if he had been in power during the 70s before giving up their troops.

The prime ministers comment came during a public rally in Punjabs Patiala. Punjab will go to polls on June 1 during the seventh phase of Lok Sabha elections 2024.

For 70 years, we could have a darshan of the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara only with binoculars. An opportunity presented itself to take back the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in 1971 when more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered before the Indian Army and we had the trump card in our hands. Had Modi been there at that time, he would have taken Kartapur Sahib from them and then freed their troops, PM Modi said.

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#WATCH | Patiala, Punjab: Addressing a public rally, PM Modi says, "Congress did the partition of the country in such a way that for 70 years, we had to look at Kartarpur Sahib through binoculars... When the Bangladesh war was fought, more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers had pic.twitter.com/IohSmC0OX4  ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2024

Kartapur Sahib, the place where Guru Nanak spent the last few days of his life, holds sentimental significance for Sikhs in India. Every year Pakistan issues thousands of visas to Indian Sikhs during the festival of Baisakhi. The Gurdwara fell in Pakistans Punjab after the partition, just a few kilometres from Indias border.

Campaigning for Patiala candidate Preneet Kaur, the wife of former Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, PM Modi said he has come to seek the blessings in the land of Gurus by bowing my head.

Punjab has led the country in various sectors, from agriculture to industry, he said. But, the current fiercely corrupt Bhagwant Mann government has changed all that, he added.

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Trade and industry are leaving Punjab while the drug trade is growing. The entire state government is running on debt, PM Modi further said.

All ministers are enjoying and the kagazi Chief Minister is always busy marking his presence in the Delhi darbar. Can such people bring development to Punjab? PM Modi asked.

He also took a dig at the AAP and the Congress for fighting the Lok Sabha polls together in Delhi and against each other in Punjab.

With inputs from agencies
Kumar, the personal assistant to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, allegedly assaulted Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal at the chief ministers official residence on May 13. He was under police custody since Saturday. read more

Delhis Tis Hazari Court on Friday sent Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals close aide Bibhav Kumar to four-day judicial custody in connection with the alleged assault on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal.

Metropolitan Magistrate Gaurav Goyal allowed the prosecutions plea seeking Kumars judicial custody for four days, news agency PTI reported. The Delhi Police had arrested Kumar on May 18.

Kumar, the personal assistant to Kejriwal, allegedly assaulted Maliwal at the chief ministers official residence on May 13. He was under police custody since Saturday.

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Maliwal filed an FIR last week, three days after she alleged that Arvind Kejriwals close aide Bibhav Kumar physically assaulted her at the chief ministers residence on May 13. In the FIR, she claimed that Kumar hit her with full force again and again and she was kicked and slapped seven to eight times. She had also alleged that despite telling him that she was menstruating and in pain, he did not budge.

Maliwal and leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have also been engaging in a war of words with the party claiming that the former Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) has been spreading lies over her assault.

AAP leader Atishi recently claimed party MP Swati Maliwal, who has accused Kejriwals aide Bibhav Kumar of assaulting her, is facing arrest in an illegal recruitment case and she was blackmailed by the BJP to become part of the conspiracy against the Chief Minister.

However, BJP accused the Aam Aadmi Party of indulging in character assassination of its Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal, instead of taking any action against Bihav Kumar who allegedly assaulted her.

With inputs from agencies.
In his discussion of prospects for space technology advancement, Somanath emphasized the possibility of US-India academic cooperation on sophisticated detectors and electronics packaging. In order to facilitate a wider use of space platforms, he emphasized the significance of standardizing docking interfaces across human spaceflight programs read more

Garcetti and Somanath also took part in the US-India Space Cooperation Conference, which was held in the city, and advocated increased cooperation between the two nations

Eric Garcetti, the US ambassador to India, visited Isro headquarters on Friday and wrapped up a series of high-level conversations about expanding cooperation in a variety of areas, from lunar exploration and human spaceflight to Earth observation.

During a delegation meeting with Isro Chairman S Somanath, Garcetti suggested that Australia, Japan, the US, and India work together to develop a QUAD satellite.

Other noteworthy talks included possible cooperative projects such as the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (Nisar) missions advanced imaging spectrometer satellite building, Indias proposal for a G-20 satellite devoted to climate change and environmental monitoring, and the potential use of Indias Gaganyaan cargo module for supply missions to the International Space Station.

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In his discussion of prospects for space technology advancement, Somanath emphasized the possibility of US-India academic cooperation on sophisticated detectors and electronics packaging. In order to facilitate a wider use of space platforms, he emphasized the significance of standardizing docking interfaces across human spaceflight programs.

In order to enable further exploration missions, officials from the two countries also talked about combining their efforts to put a navigation architecture on the lunar surface or in orbit around the moon.

At the end of the sessions, there was a consensus to deepen the US-Indian space relationship and look into new joint ventures throughout the civilian space program. Both sides officials were upbeat about the potential for continued cooperation.

A wide range of topics of common interest were discussed, such as joint working groups, the Artemis Accords, space economy initiatives, and the utilization of US laser reflector payloads on Chandrayaan-3.

Im deeply impressed by Isros incredible accomplishments in space exploration. The US greatly values our partnership with Indias world-class space program as we pursue new frontiers of discovery, Garcetti said.

Garcetti and Somanath also took part in the US-India Space Cooperation Conference, which was held in the city, and advocated increased cooperation between the two nations.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are a milestone in the political evolution of the country. It has taken India 75 years to overtake its primary colonial ruler, the United Kingdom, as the worlds fifth largest economy. This is the first national election held in India since it has become the worlds most populous nation, and it comes at a juncture where India has just started taking its place as a global power, a distinction it lost before rampant colonisation started in 1700.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seen as divisive, right-wing, and at times dictatorial by the West. Indias secular fabric is portrayed as under threat under his leadership. Much of the countrys Hindu identity is ascribed to him, the BJP, RSS, VHP, and the milieu of Hindu parties and groups that have supported his rise. The much-weakened Congress and its various allies, the INDI Alliance, blame him for sacrificing Indias secularity and its traditional protection of minorities. They warn that a resounding Modi victory will only lead to a change in the constitution, the erosion of Indias democracy, and a Hindu Rashtra, where Muslims will not have equal rights. They see Modi and his allies as master manipulators , the symptoms of the disease of Hindutva that has gripped India. No one really knows if its the West that echoes the congresss line or its congress that continues to echo the philosophies of the West.

I have lived the last 24 years of my life overseas, away from India. I was born in 1980 in suburban Bombay, a few days after Rahul Gandhis grandmother, Indira, won her resounding victory. I grew up in a predominantly Sikh colony when she was killed in 1984. I still remember the despondency of losing her and the chaos that followedriots and destruction of the Sikh community at her assassination. I remember his fathers famous speech a few days later, where he said, When a great tree falls, the earth shakes," justifying the massacre. I have lived through each step of the Congress trying to implement its divide and rule agenda, the imperial imprint left behind by the British, while Hindus tried to grasp their own identity and come to terms with who they were in their own country and democracy, where they were the majority.

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I have seen Bombay become Mumbai, Balasaheb Thackeray and his rise, and the slow evolution of a people from a Union of States to one country, one nation, and one identity. The destruction of the Babri Masjid and its brutal aftermath. When I left India in 2002, Narendra Damodardas Modi had just arrived on the national scene.

Modi is not the aberration of Indias tryst with its destiny; he is its result. By blaming the evolution of Indias Hindu identity on Modi, the opposition, Western scholars, and media once again take the dignity away from every Indian citizen. The Indian Hindu voter is stupid, gullible, bulliable, pliant, does not know his mind, and finally, if nothing sticks, can be easily tricked by faulty voting machines. He needs protection from the wiser rulers who know better. This was basically the British perspective when they ruled India, and this is what the Congress wants you to continue believing.

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The Congress and Rahul Gandhi call India a Union of States. They are partially right. At independence, India had over 600 kingdoms and presidencies that needed to be united. It was Indira Gandhi who abolished the privy purse and got rid of the monarchs. It was Indira Gandhi who brought in Harivansh Rai Bachchan to promote Hindi as the Rashtra Bhasha, when there were several other older languages that could have taken the credit.

All this forging of a nation and national identity has had its desired effect. India is a nation now. The people have a national identity, which they are proud of. They also have a religious and cultural identity that they have started accepting. It has taken 75 years from independence, after two centuries of humiliation, for Bharat to build its first temple that matters. It also took Bharat the same time to inaugurate the first temple in the Persian Gulf since the advent of Islam. The self-respect that the country has achieved is reflected in the respect other rulers and countries ascribe to it.

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Hindutva has evolved into Sanatana Dharma, and the evolution has brought Prime Minister Modi to power. Modi was not the man who invented or popularised Hindutva; that happened hundreds of years ago, when a boy saint in Alandi gave life to a darshana to unite people against foreign invaders. Dnyneshwaras Bhavarth Deepika, Hinduisms first book in a vernacular language (old Marathi), is credited to have been completed the same year as the sack of Devgiri, the capital of the Yadavas, by Aladin Khilji, 1296. It is there that you will find the framework of Hindutva where he calls for unity in the face of foreign aggression. It is his commentary on the Bhagvad Gita in Marathi where he calls on the reader to defend dharma.

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The reason why the Prime Minister of India, still campaigns with a hectic schedule, despite being credited with easily winning a third mandate, is because he respects the Indian voter. He understands that the Indian voter is thinking, volatile, wants to be courted and convinced, and while many may be uneducated, the Indian voter understands the value of his or her freedom. This is the reason why, despite poverty, ignorance, natural calamities, wars, terrorism, and Indira Gandhis Emergency, Bharats democracy has survived and prospered.

While one debates Modi, one must, for a minute, think about the dharma of the opposition in a democracy. Rahul Gandhi and his colleagues have time and again brought up caste, the north-south divide, and raised questions about the identity of the Union of States of India (that is, Bharat). The strength of a democracy is not its rulers; it is its opposition. By allying himself with corrupt dynasts with no united plan or programme for the future of the country, Gandhi has failed in his dharma as the leader of the opposition.

The Congress Party was established in 1885 as a conduit between the Indian masses and their colonial British rulers. Eventually, it was convenient to have them around. When Britain wanted Brexit in 1947, it had a local agent who not only maintained its influence in the newly independent colony but also took responsibility for the horrors that followed, including partition.

The modern congress uses the Abhaya hasta as its symbol, which is the symbol of fearlessness, where the deity (here the congress) protects the devotee (the citizen). It could not have adopted a more Hindu symbol, which graces almost every Hindu deity. Our gods constantly protect us, and the hand is the hand of benevolence, blessing, and protection. The Congress repeated defeats do not just signify that it is unable to be benevolent and protective towards the voters. The Indian voter has reached a maturity where he or she does not believe that their rulers are on a pedestal or godly. The Congress has been unable to make peace with this evolution of India, where the national state has one identity first, that of being Indian. It does not put its rulers on a pedestal anymore and is proud of its identity as a nation. Hindus, after 75 years, are comfortable with their identity and confident that despite the government they will elect, it will protect every Indian citizen regardless of their religion, caste, gender, or political orientation. The abhaya hasta is now in the hands of every Indian citizen, not the Congress party.

Maybe the opposition and the West are looking at this picture all wrong. It is not Modis India. It is Indias Modi. The Prime Minister, in his third mandate, will be an expression of a young, united nation that is just getting comfortable with its unity, identity, history, and religion. It isnt perfect; it is in constant evolution.

On June 4, Bharat will have spoken, and the case will be closed.

The author is an Indo-Italian entrepreneur and writer, has worked closely and continues to advise various governments in Europe, Middle East and Africa. He is the founder of the Dialogue on Democracy. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
The global geopolitical strife is providing an opportunity for India to play an important role in shaping global geopolitics. Indias rapid economic development and rich geo-culture add necessary substance to New Delhis greater engagement in global geopolitics. India is not only the voice of the Global South but also the Viswa Mitra of the global community.

The Global Order is in prolonged stress and turmoil largely because of geopolitical conflicts, economic recession, health crisis as evident from the Covid-19 crisis and its aftermath, supply and demand securitisation, environmental crisis, etc. Along with these crises, the strategic rivalry between the United States and China has also altered the geopolitical balance, thus accentuating global rivalry. The same can be seen in the context of rivalry in the Indo-Pacific.

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In this context, how one sees Indias role in a tumultuous world order. It is important to infer that despite facing regional and global challenges, India has succeeded in charting a grand strategy that makes New Delhi a global power. In this regard, it is to be noted that Indias rich geo-culture is rooted in normative idioms like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, peace, cooperation and development based on equity and justice for the global community, thus providing the basis for global order.

A closer evaluation of Indian foreign policy over the years demonstrates some of these normative aspects as its key policy strategies. The normative contours of Indian foreign policy helped India to win appreciation from the global community. The same was evident more aptly during the Covid-19 crisis when India provided vaccines and other essential medicines to the Global North and also the poorer countries of the Global South.

Similarly, during a global food crisis, India started exporting essential food grains to the international community after the supply disruption in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war. This helped the global community to mitigate the food crisis. One essential point that needs to be inferred here is that India pursues a more benevolent and humanist policy towards the global community. Thus, it can be stated that Indias geo-strategy cannot be studied only in the realist power strategy but also in the ideational sense, where the core goal is addressing the global communitys concerns. This is why Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to Indias role in the global order as Viswa Bandhu.

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It is necessary to underline here that India is not only a Viswa Bandu but also a Viswa Guru (Global Teacher). The growing stature of Indian foreign policy is evident, especially after 2014, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, who gave a new direction to Indias foreign policy. The essential hallmark of Indias foreign policy under Prime Minister Modi is that it is rooted in age-old geo-cultural traditions. This new geopolitical stature made India the global leader and a geoeconomic player, beating the global recession and rising faster. In this context, there is a need to assess Indias rise as a global player in the three above prisms.

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Geo-cultural Vector of Indias Foreign Policy

One important vector of Indias foreign policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi is the significance of geo-cultural fronts. This provides a new prism for Indias foreign policy. The same can be inferred from Prime Minister Modis visit to Nepal in August 2014. During his visit, PM Modi took a special interest in renovating and restoring the historic and holy Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. The visit symbolised two important things; namely, it strategised Indias deep-rooted geo-cultural relations with Nepal. During the visit, PM Modi also showed keen interest in developing some other holy places like Lumbini and Janakpuri, closely related to Indian cultural heritage. A similar strategy India displayed when the holy Buddhist relics were sent to Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar and Mongolia. During his visit to Bangladesh in 2015, PM Modi also visited some of the famous Hindu temples, including the Dhakeshwari temple in Dhaka. The geocultural linkages with Sri Lanka and Nepal were apt during the inauguration of the Sacred Ram Temple at Ayodhya. As reported, the Sri Lankan government sent sacred stones from Ashok Vatika in Sri Lanka.

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Similarly, gifts from Janakpuri (considered the birthplace of Mata Sita) came to Ayodhya as part of rituals. One may recall here that PM Modi, during his visit to Mauritius way back in 2015 , visited Ganga Talao and the sacred temple of Lord Shiva. The visit to Ganga Talao and the sacred Lord Shiva Temple in Mauritius marked a new phase in Indias spiritual diplomacy in this Indian Ocean country. Indias Spiritual diplomacy reached its epoch when the PM laid the foundation stone of the Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi in March 2017. He also inaugurated the temple on 13 February 2024. It may be recalled here that while inaugurating the Temple, PM Modi stated that this temple will usher in a brighter future for humanity, symbolizing communal harmony and global unity for the world.

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The speech of PM Modi highlights the true spirit of Indias Sanatan Sanskriti which underlines                   the English translation of the same is Om, May All be Happy: May All be Free from Illness; May All See what is Auspicious; May no one Suffer; Om Peace, Peace, Peace. It is a fact that this age-old Indian spiritual code is the only basis for achieving Sustainable Peace in the strife-torn Global geopolitics. It may be underlined here that under the leadership of PM Modi, India is pursuing an active spiritual diplomacy. This is more important as the global order is confronting a new challenge in the form of a Clash of Civilizations, as outlined by Samuel Huntington.

On the other hand, India is providing a normative ideology rooted in the age-old traditional maxim of   Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means  The World Is One Family. This inclusive nature of the Indian philosophical maxim provides an ideological framework for the global community to co-exist cooperatively. Similarly, the holy Rig Veda highlights the noble principle that says,     , the English translation of the same means Let Noble Thoughts Come to Us From All Sides of The World. One may underline that some of these traditional Indian ethos rooted in spiritual values are providing the bedrock to Indias approach to global order. When the global community faces an ideological crisis, it is Indias age-old Indian spiritual values that provide an alternative to the global community. This reflects Indias stature as a global normative power.

Along with a rich contribution to the global normative order, another important contribution to the global community is Yoga. Over the years, this ancient tradition of Yoga has emerged as a major source of inspiration for the global community for its spiritual and physical healing capacities. In this regard, it should be mentioned here that in September 2014, PM Modi, in his address to the 69th UN General Assembly, highlighted the importance of Yoga for the global community. In his speech, PM Modi stated, Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and nature. In this context, he urged the United Nations to work towards an International Yoga Day. After PM Modis speech, the UN in December 2014 adopted a resolution declaring June 21, as International Yoga Day.

Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO), as reported, started a Yoga App for the benefit of the common people. Similarly, in 2016, the UN listed Yoga as the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by calling it unifying the mind with the body and soul to allow for greater mental, spiritual and physical well-being. The declaration of June 21, as Yoga Day reflects Indias growing clout in the global geo-cultural normative framework.

Global Geopolitical Power

The growing geo-cultural stature of India helps it shape the global geopolitical discourses. The same can be evident from the fact that the global community, including the UN, is reposing faith in India to resolve the global crisis. For instance, the leadership role of India in addressing the global crisis was evident when the global community appealed to PM Modi to resolve the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and the present West Asian crisis. It may be recalled here that even in UN debates on the West Asian crisis or the Russia-Ukraine War, Indias position was appreciated by the member countries of the UN. The same was evident when India advocated the need to provide humanitarian assistance to the Palestine people or secure a safe passage corridor in the war-ravaged Ukraine. This shows Indias prominent role in global geopolitics.

The global geopolitical crisis also provides an opportunity for India to play a greater role. The same can be evident from the fact that India has played an important role in shaping the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific by emphasising principles like free and open Indo-Pacific as well as playing a crucial role in the formation of the strategic Quad. Since its formation Quad has played an important role in enhancing the strategic cooperation among India, the US, Japan and Australia. At the same time, this strategic bloc is posing a formidable role in challenging Chinas hegemonic role in the Indo-Pacific geopolitical space.

Similarly, India is an active member of SCO and BRICS but was also invited to join the elite G-7 countries Summit in Germany in 2022. This reflects Indias growing importance in the global multilateral organisations. India s successful hosting of the G20 Summit in October 2023 and arriving at a consensus on the Russia-Ukraine war in the Summit declaration reflects Indias pursuit of assertive and pragmatic diplomacy in the multilateral framework. Similarly, it is on Indias insistence that the African Union got a membership in the G20. This shows Indias commitment to promoting the interests of the Global South countries and promoting a global sustainable security order based on equity.

At the same time, India is playing an active role in the Indian Ocean region. The unveiling of the SAGAR doctrine by PM Modi in 2015 gave a greater push to Indias maritime diplomacy in the Indian Ocean region. Similarly, the Maritime Vision 2030 outlined in 2021 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Government of India has also focused on a greater role for India in maritime diplomacy. Along with maritime diplomacy, India has recently strengthened its presence in outer space. The success of the Chandrayaan Mission enhanced Indias presence in outer space. It is a known fact that Outer Space is going to play an important role in shaping the future of mankind.

Indias approach to global geopolitics under PM Modi is based on four major pillars. These are strategic autonomy in international relations, promoting the interest of the Global South, strengthening civilisational ties with like-minded countries, and greater engagement with the neighbours. It is the pursuit of strategic autonomy, rooted in the Indian philosophy of Madhyam Marg or the Middle Path. The strategic doctrine of the Middle Path propels India to play a major role in global geopolitics. For instance, India is playing an important role in balancing relations with Russia in the Indo-Pacific geopolitics. This is a known fact that Russia has a strong aversion to the geopolitical concept of the Indo-Pacific. Similarly, despite prolonged sanctions on Russia after the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, India managed to get energy from Russia. Another instance one can underline here is that despite sanctions on Iran India has developed a robust partnership with Iran rooted in civilisational ties. This reflects Indias ability to balance global geopolitics. This is all happening because of Indias growing stature in global geopolitics. The same can be evident from Indias stronger strategic partnership with Russia, the US, and the European Union. Indias role in global geopolitics was explicitly underlined by PM Modi, at the Gujarat Vibrant Summit, In the rapidly changing world order, India is going ahead as Vishwa Mitra (a friend of the world).

Apart from being the  Vishwa Mitra India is also playing the balancer of global geopolitics. This is happening because India challenged the status-quo nature of global geopolitics and worked towards a genuine multipolarity. As Derek Grossman, a strategic analyst from the US strategic think tank Rand Corporation, in an op. ed piece in the Foreign Policy titled Modis Multipolar Moment Has Arrived, stated that Modi has managed to elevate Indias global stature. This he says in the context of Indias independent foreign policy posture in the context of the Russia-Ukraine War.

One may underline that peace and non-violence have been the principled position of Indian foreign policy over the years. However, when required, India also has used its military capability. The same can be evident from the Balakot surgical air strike conducted by the Indian Air Force deep inside the territory of Pakistan to destroy terrorist sanctuaries operated on behalf of the Pakistan government.

Similarly, India gave a befitting and strong military response to China when the Chinese troops tried incursion into the Indian territories in the Galwan sector in June 2020. This demonstrates that India is not averse to using its military capability when required. The growing military capability of India over the years has also sent a strong warning to adversaries like Pakistan and China.

At the same time, India, under the leadership of PM Modi, pursues a neighbourhood first policy. As has been observed, India comes to the rescue when the neighbouring countries face a natural disaster or financial crisis. This is even though some of the countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka and Maldives are falling prey to Chinas evil design. Though India has not recognised the Taliban in Afghanistan, New Delhi is providing the necessary aid to the Afghan people to tide over the food crisis.

With Bangladesh and Bhutan also, India is improving relations. Indias relations with West Asian, Central Asian as well as South East Asian countries have improved considerably under the leadership of Modi. In the context of West Asia, India is rebalancing ties with Iran as with Saudi Arabia and Israel. Similarly, India has upgraded its relations with Central Asia in an institutional framework.

Over the years, India has cemented itself as a major external actor in Southeast Asian geopolitics. From a Dialogue partner with the ASEAN (the nodal regional organisation of Southeast Asian countries), India has become a strategic partner in recent years. This demonstrates Indias growing influence in the Southeast Asian countries.

It can be underlined here that under the leadership of PM Modi, India has calibrated its diplomacy in such a manner that propelled New Delhi to play a greater role in regional and global leadership. As theoretical studies on foreign policy-making suggest, leadership is crucial in the foreign policy-making process. Using the same theoretical proposition, PM Modi provides decisive leadership to the foreign policy-making process. External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar recently, in an interview with a newspaper, underlined, Under PM Modi, we have a Bharat-first foreign policy. Thus, it can be stated that under the leadership of PM Modi, India is playing an important role in global geopolitics.

Global Geo-economic Power

One pertinent aspect that requires closer attention is that the global economy is in a deep slump, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic as well as due to the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the onset of the recent war between Israel and Hamas. On the other hand, despite the global recession, Indias economy is in an upswing. As studies suggest, India is the fifth-largest economy in the world. As per a recent report released by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, in February 2024, Indias GDP growth rate is projected at 7.3 per cent in the fiscal year of 2023-2024. The same report quoting IMF underlines that India will be the third-largest economy by 2027. Even studies from the World Bank and IMF more or less concur with the Government of India report. One of the positive aspects of Indias economic growth trajectory is that there is a growing surge in the FDI inflow.

As per a report of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, in 2021-22 fiscal years, India received 85 US Billion dollars. It may be recalled here that as per the above report, India received only  96 billion USD from 2005-2014. The surge in FDI inflow to India reflects the growing confidence of international investors in the Indian economy. A robust domestic economy and growing FDI inflow into India have also enhanced Indias global position as a geo-economic power. In this regard, the full credit should go to the leadership quality of PM Modi, who, under his leadership, is giving a new direction to Indias economic growth trajectories.

Another important aspect that needs to be delved into here is the rising middle class of India and its emergence as a major energy market. A recent report published in the South China Morning Post suggests that India will emerge as a major consumer base in the forthcoming years and by 2030, with a consumer base of 773 million people. This gives India an edge in comparison to other rising powers. With a huge consumer base, India can be a major market in the forthcoming years. This will give India a major advantage in bargaining with the other major economic powers in terms of providing access to the market.

Indias resounding domestic economic growth also propels New Delhi to play a major role in the global economy. The same can be evident from Indias role in the various multilateral bodies. As highlighted above, India got an invitation to participate in the G 7 Summit. This reflects Indias growing stature in global geoeconomics. Similarly, India has signed several Free Trade Agreements with regional organisations like the ASEAN. In March 2024, India signed an FTA with European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries (Iceland, Switzerland, Norway and Liechtenstein). Efforts are going on for similar FTA arrangements with the European countries. Similarly, India is mulling to sign an FTA with Great Britain.

Both India and Russia are also keen to sign an FTA agreement. India can also sign a similar arrangement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), a regional trading multilateral body promoted by Russia in the post-Soviet space. This will offer India entry into the post-Soviet Eurasian space market. At the same time, India is also part of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), which came up in May 2022 in Tokyo. This is a positive move on the part of Indias geo-economic diplomacy.

Over the years, India has enhanced its global presence, by bringing out many connectivity projects. In fact, boosting global connectivity is one of the mainstays of Indias global geoeconomic engagement. Some of them are the International North-South Transport Corridor Project (INSTC), Chabahar Connectivity Projects, IMEC Corridor, Chennai-Vladivostok Corridor, Asia-Africa Growth Corridor, India-Myanmar-Thailand,

Similarly, India-ASEAN specially emphasises the augmenting connectivity projects since 2017. One may recall that signing a contract with Iran to develop the Chabahar Project for 10 years will boost Indias connectivity projects to Afghanistan and Central Asia. At the same time, being part of the Ashgabat agreement will boost Indias outreach to both West Asian and Central Asian connectivity projects. Emphasising the significance of geo-economic connectivity projects, PM Modi at the G20 Summit held in New Delhi in October 2023 stated, Increasing connectivity with all regions has been Indias main priority, and he further underlined that connectivity is a source of increasing not only mutual trade but also mutual trust between different countries.

This signifies PM Modis commitment to promote Indias greater connectivity with different parts of the world. Being part of the Quad, as discussed above, India is vigorously promoting the idea of an open and free Indo-Pacific, which will promote global trade.

Thus, it can be stated that the growing economic power of India over the years is propelling India to play a major role in global geopolitics.

Conclusion

Looking at Indias role in global geopolitics in recent years, it can be added that New Delhi will play a major role in the global geopolitical space. In this regard, it can be added here that Indias rich normative contribution and rising economic power will propel New Delhi to play a greater role in global geopolitics. Being the voice of the Global South, India is providing leadership to the Global South countries on various issues ranging from ecology, democracy, global multilateralism, etc, at the global multilateral forums. At the same time, it must be underlined that in the post-2014 phase, India is providing the necessary leadership to the global community.

The author teaches at the School of International Studies, JNU, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Firstpost.
Elon Musk has secured funding of approximately $6 billion earlier this month. However, the final close has been delayed, and the company is now seeking to raise as much as $6.5 billion. With this, xAI, Musks AI venture is now valued a $24 billion read more

Elon Musks AI startup, X.AI Corp., is on track to finalize a funding round in June that could value the company at over $24 billion, including the latest injection of capital, according to a source familiar with the deal.

Originally, the company aimed to conclude a financing round of approximately $6 billion earlier this month. However, the final close has been delayed, and the company is now seeking to raise as much as $6.5 billion. Over the next few weeks, efforts will be made to reach closer to that target, as per the source, who preferred to remain anonymous due to the confidential nature of the information.

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Elon Musks xAI has attracted significant support from major Silicon Valley venture capital firms, including Lightspeed Venture Partners, Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, and Tribe Capital.

According to sources familiar with the negotiations, these investors have committed to participating in xAIs latest financing, with Musk aiming to raise nearly $6 billion. However, one investor involved in the round, told the Financial Times that Musk is still a few hundred million dollars short of his target.

Musks push for funding comes as he seeks to bolster xAIs position in the competitive AI landscape, where market leaders like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have already introduced more advanced generative AI models.

Musks pitch to investors hinges on xAIs potential to leverage its ties with other companies under his leadership, which could provide technology, data, and early revenue as customers of the startup.

The new funding round would result in a post-money valuation of $24 billion for xAI, facilitating the development of new iterations of its Grok chatbot. Musk co-founded OpenAI before departing in 2018 due to disagreements with then-CEO Sam Altman regarding the companys research direction.

Musk subsequently sued OpenAI and Altman, alleging a deviation from the startups original mission, a claim that OpenAI dismissed as frivolous.

In his pursuit of artificial general intelligence, Musk has pledged to be more transparent than his rivals, criticizing existing models for what he perceives as excessive political correctness. While some investors are convinced by Musks vision, they caution that xAI trails behind its competitors and would require substantial investment in chips and infrastructure to catch up.

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During the fundraising process, investors like Sequoia and Andreessen, which have previously backed Musks ventures including X and SpaceX, were given priority to acquire up to 25 per cent of xAI shares. Additionally, much of the funding round was facilitated through banks and special purpose vehicles, including sources outside the US.

However, concerns have been raised about the inclusivity of the fundraising process, with some investors feeling marginalized if they had previously raised questions about issues at Musks other ventures. Despite these concerns, xAI continues to attract significant interest from investors worldwide, including sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and retail investors in regions like the Middle East and Hong Kong.

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(With inputs from agencies)
Moreover, researchers identified six unique samples named Pegasus HNVC (Hidden Virtual Network Computing) on the deep web between May 2022 and January 2024, which indicates the proliferation of such samples among threat actors read more

CloudSEK's investigation began after Apple's advisory in April, with researchers scouring the deep and dark web as well as the surface web to ascertain the availability of authentic Pegasus spyware. Image Credit: AFP

Following Apples recent threat notifications to iPhone users in 92 countries, cybersecurity firm CloudSEK conducted an investigation revealing a surge in fake Pegasus spyware on the deep and dark web.

While Apple did not specify any threat actors in its warning, it cited Pegasus spyware from the NSO group as an example. CloudSEK believes this may have prompted scammers to peddle fraudulent malware under the guise of Pegasus source code.

CloudSEKs investigation began after Apples advisory in April, with researchers scouring the deep and dark web as well as the surface web to ascertain the availability of authentic Pegasus spyware or if fraudsters were leveraging its name for deceitful purposes.

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In a report titled Behind the Advisory: Decoding Apples Alert and Spyware Dilemma, CloudSEK revealed its findings. Researchers examined around 25,000 posts on Telegram and frequented Internet Relay Chat (IRC) platforms. A significant portion of these posts purported to sell genuine Pegasus source code.

These posts followed a consistent pattern, enticing buyers with terms like NSO Tools and Pegasus. Interacting with over 150 potential sellers of such Pegasus spyware, CloudSEK uncovered samples purportedly showcasing source code, live video demonstrations of malware usage, and snapshots of the source code, all under the name Pegasus.

Moreover, researchers identified six unique samples named Pegasus HNVC (Hidden Virtual Network Computing) on the deep web between May 2022 and January 2024, which indicates the proliferation of such samples among threat actors. Similar instances were observed on the surface web.

CloudSEK obtained 15 samples and over 30 indicators from various sources. However, it found that nearly all of them have been creating their own fraudulent, ineffective tools and scripts, attempting to distribute them under Pegasus name to capitalise on Pegasus and NSO Groups name for substantial financial gain.

It is suspected that groups of malicious actors exploited the attention generated by Apples advisory and multiple news reports mentioning Pegasus to sell their own random samples labelled as Pegasus. Although these spyware can still pose a threat and harm victims, they are likely unrelated to the NSO Group or genuine Pegasus.

The report underscores the importance of scrutinizing threat attribution after an attack incident to aid cybersecurity firms in identification and reinforcement suggestions while preventing panic among the public.
If all things go as per Googles plan, the tech giant will export the drones it makes in India to countries like the US and Australia. Alphabets subsidiary, Wing LLC, which specialises in drone delivery services, will be spearheading the manufacturing operations in Tamil Nadu read more

Google's sister company Wing, has already established itself as a key player in the drone delivery space, offering its services to businesses across the US, Europe, and Australia. Image Credit: Wing

Google, through its parent company Alphabet, is considering setting up its drone manufacturing operations in Tamil Nadu, India, as part of its expansion plans into the Indian market.

The tech giant is reportedly in discussions with the Tamil Nadu government to establish production facilities for drones. If things go as per Googles plan, the tech giant will export the drones it makes in India to countries like the US and Australia, as per a report by Moneycontrol.

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Alphabets subsidiary, Wing LLC, which specialises in drone delivery services, will be spearheading the manufacturing operations in Tamil Nadu.

The move aligns with Googles broader strategy to diversify its manufacturing footprint and leverage Indias skilled workforce and conducive business environment.

This underscores Googles commitment to local manufacturing and tapping into Indias growing consumer market.

Wing has already established itself as a key player in the drone delivery space, offering its services to businesses across the US, Europe, and Australia.

With the setting up of drone assembly lines in Tamil Nadu, Wing aims to solidify its global operations and cater to the increasing demand for autonomous delivery solutions in India.

The Indian governments proactive measures to promote domestic drone production have further incentivised companies like Google to invest in the countrys manufacturing ecosystem.

Indias drone market is set to see exponential growth. Projections indicate that India will be a $13 billion market by 2030,

In addition to drone manufacturing, Google is also planning to produce Pixel smartphones locally in India. Reports suggest that the company is in advanced talks with Foxconn and Dixon to assemble Pixel phones in Tamil Nadu.

This move underscores Googles commitment to local manufacturing and its vision to capitalise on Indias growing smartphone market.

Googles foray into local manufacturing of drones and smartphones signifies a significant milestone in Indias technology landscape.

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It not only reinforces Indias position as a key manufacturing hub but also presents new opportunities for employment generation and technological innovation in the country.
Former head of Britains National Cyber Security Centre Ciaran Martin has blasted the UK government for ignoring the threat that China poses in cyber-espionage. It is crucial to establish clear boundaries and designate disruption of civilian infrastructure as a red line read more

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Sunak's cabinet has been very active with regulating AI, and cybersecurity, but has been ignoring China's threat. Image Credit: Reuters

Former Chief Executive of Britains National Cyber Security Centre, Ciaran Martin, has issued a stark warning about the growing cyber threats posed by China, emphasising that the United Kingdom is ignoring the significant shift in Beijings cyber-espionage tactics.

Martins remarks come in the wake of a US alert earlier this year, revealing that Chinese state-backed hackers are targeting critical sectors, marking a pivotal moment in Chinas cyberwarfare strategy.

In an interview with The Guardian during the DTX conference at Manchester Tech Week, Martin stressed the need for heightened vigilance across both public and private sectors, as well as civil society. He urged the UK government to convey unequivocally to China that any attempts to disrupt essential infrastructure would be intolerable.

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According to Martin, it is crucial to establish clear boundaries and designate disruption of civilian infrastructure as a red line.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Martin drew parallels between Chinas evolving cyber tactics and those employed by Russia, indicating a shift towards Moscow-style strategies.

He referenced FBI Director Christopher Wrays warning in April, detailing how Chinese hackers infiltrated key US infrastructure, including telecommunications and energy sectors, with the intent to inflict widespread damage.

Martin pointed out that while such attacks might not result in direct fatalities, they could inflict significant harm. He cited the example of a ransomware attack on the British Library, underscoring the potential ramifications if similar attacks were to occur simultaneously on multiple critical institutions.

Addressing the UKs response to cyber threats, Martin welcomed the governments consideration of mandatory reporting of ransomware attacks and regulations on ransom payments. He expressed appreciation for the seriousness with which these measures are being considered, emphasizing the importance of robust actions in safeguarding national interests.

The urgency of Martins warnings is underscored by recent incidents, including cyber-attacks targeting the UK elections watchdog and surveillance operations on British politicians, attributed to Beijing-backed hackers.

In light of these developments, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden has reaffirmed the governments commitment to taking decisive actions against any threats posed by the Chinese government.

As a professor at the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford, Martins insights carry significant weight in the cybersecurity domain. His calls for enhanced preparedness and proactive measures against cyber threats serve as a rallying cry for collective action to protect the UKs digital infrastructure and national security.

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(With inputs from agencies)
According to a police officer in Kolkata, the West Bengal CID has detained a Bangladeshi national who works as a butcher in the states Bangaon area of the North 24 Parganas district on suspicion of being involved in Anars murder read more

Mahbubul Haque, the Metropolitan Magistrate of Dhaka, had earlier on May 23 set a deadline of July 4 for the submission of the investigative report in the case

Three suspects were placed on an eight-day police remand by a Bangladeshi court on Friday due to their suspected involvement in the violent murder of Anwarul Azim Anar, a politician for the ruling Awami League, during his time in India.

On May 12, Anar, a three-time member of parliament from Bangladeshs Jhenaidah-4 segment and the president of the Awami Leagues Kaliganj sub-district unit, traveled personally to Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, for medical attention. On May 13, he vanished from Kolkata.

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The Kolkata police claimed that circumstantial evidence suggested the MP was first killed by strangulation and then his body was dismembered and disposed of in several locations. There are still no visible remnants of his body or any body components.

Three people had been detained by Bangladesh Police in relation to his death. In front of Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Dilruba Afroz Tithi on Friday, police presented the three accused, Tanvir, Shimul Bhuiyan, and Silisti Rahman, and requested a 10-day remand.

The three were placed on an eight-day police remand by the court following the hearing.

Bangladesh police claim that in order to avoid detection by law enforcement and enable the assassination of the lawmaker in Kolkata, Bhuiyan, the leader of the banned Purbo Banglar Communist Party, procured a phony passport and changed his name to Amanullah.

The murder was organized two to three months prior, with several meetings taking place at the homes of the mastermind and close friend of the MP, Aktaruzzaman Shahin, in the Gulshan and Bashundhara neighborhoods. Following the murder, officials reported that Akhtaruzzaman, an American citizen who was born in Bangladesh, went to Nepal.

On Thursday, a West Bengal CID team traveled to Bangladesh to question the three defendants.

Mahbubul Haque, the Metropolitan Magistrate of Dhaka, had earlier on May 23 set a deadline of July 4 for the submission of the investigative report in the case.

Mumtarin Ferdous Dorin, Anars daughter, filed the case with the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar police station on May 22.

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According to a police officer in Kolkata, the West Bengal CID has detained a Bangladeshi national who works as a butcher in the states Bangaon area of the North 24 Parganas district on suspicion of being involved in Anars murder.

During questioning, the man acknowledged to the officer that he had assisted the other accused in slicing up the victims body and then disposing of the parts in various places.

According to the senior police officer, an initial investigation also revealed that the MPs close friend Akhtaruzzaman, a US citizen, had given almost  5 crore to the perpetrators.

According to the MP, his friend owns an apartment in Kolkata and is most likely currently in the US.
Bangladeshi MP Anwarul Azim Anar went to the flat at the invitation of the woman and according to CCTV footage acquired by CID, the leader was seen entering the flat with two people, a man and a woman read more

Bangladeshi MP Anwarul Azim Anar, who was found dead two days ago in Kolkata, was likely honey-trapped by a 24-year-old woman into a flat in New Town following which a contract killer brutally murdered him.

Details of the gruesome killing of Anar, a member of the Bangladeshi parliament from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas party, continue to emerge as the West Bengal police probe the matter involving a Bangladeshi, an American, and a woman who lured the politician.

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Meanwhile, the West Bengal CID has detained one person allegedly involved in the murder of Anar. A police officer said that the detained person had met the main suspects in the murder case.

Anar honey-trapped by 24-yo

According to a report by News18, a woman named Celesty, 24, lured the Bangladeshi MP into a New Town flat.

Anar went to the flat at the invitation of the woman and according to CCTV footage acquired by CID, the leader was seen entering the flat with two people, a man and a woman.

It was a well-planned murder. An old friend of the MP paid a huge amount of money, approximately Rs 5 crore, to the contract killers to carry out the crime. Further investigation is underway, an officer said.

The officer added that the duo was seen leaving the flat after which they went there again without the MP.

Police officials told PTI that the woman who laid the honeytrap was close to Anars friend, a prime suspect in the murder case.

Chopped body, blood stains

Police officials suspect that the victim was first strangulated following which his body was chopped into several pieces. The body was then deskinned and mixed with turmeric powder to delay decomposition.

The dismembered body parts were placed in a trolley bag which was taken to different locations across Kolkata to be scattered. Meanwhile, some body parts were also kept in a fridge.

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The murderers deceived Anars family and friends by sending them text messages and asking them not to contact him as he was travelling to Delhi.

Close friend turns into a suspect

Anars close friend, the one who he was seen with last, the one who he travelled around the city with, the one he grew up with, turned out to be his worst foe.

A US citizen, Akhtaruzzaman, had allegedly paid Rs 5 crore to the suspects involved in the crime.

The New Town flat where the murder took place was also owned by Akhtaruzzaman. who is likely to be in the US currently.

According to a report by The Business Standard, Bangladesh might seek the US Interpols help to find Akhtaruzzaman.

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Plan to kill Anar devised months ago

Anar was not killed in a fit of rage. Instead, his murder was well-planned three months ago, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) chief Additional Commissioner Harunor Rashid has said.

The crime took place on Indian soil in Kolkata as police surveillance in Dhaka had been ramped up in anticipation of the crime.

They did not dare to carry out the crime in Bangladesh. However, their efforts to escape justice were in vain. The police have arrested three individuals, and several others are under surveillance," Rashid said.

Gold smuggling the reason for murder?

Meanwhile, West Bengal officials believe that the motive for murdering Anar might have been over a disagreement on gold smuggling.

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Akhilesh Chaturvedi, IG of West Bengal CID said that several people involved in the gold smuggling case were summoned for questioning on Thursday.
Boeing also took a hit after Wests comments with the American companys share losing to more than 7 per cent read more

As Boeing navigates through a host of challenges regarding the aircraft it is manufacturing, the companys CEO Brian West said that the manufacturers might burn through cash this year. He also mentioned that due to the ongoing struggles, the deliveries of new planes wont be improving in the second quarter as well.

The recent statement came in contradiction to what West said last month when he forecasted that Boeing would generate free cash flow in the low single-digit billions. Hence, the latest forecast indicates the mounting costs the plane maker is currently bearing.

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According to NBC News, the aircraft manufacturing company burned through nearly $4 billion in cash in the first quarter and West mentioned that the figure could be similar or possibly a little worse".

Boeings aircraft delivery takes a major hit

The companys aircraft delivery also took a major hit in the first quarter and fell to the lowest level since the pandemic. Boeing also took a hit after Wests comments with the American companys share losing to more than 7 per cent.

We have frustrated and disappointed our customers because of some of the production supply chain issues that were up against, West said at the Wolfe Research industry conference.

And while I understand that frustration, the most important thing we can do for our customers and the supply chain in the industry is to focus on the actions that are underway as we speak so that we could stabilize this production system, improve quality, and get more predictable," he added.

The announcement came just two months after Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun announced that he would step down by the end of the year. The company has already replaced the chairman and chief executive of its commercial aeroplane unit.

Boeings latest economic woes stem from a shocking incident in which a door plug blew out midair from a nearly new 737 Max 9 at the start of the year. The incident was followed by other malfunctions in Boeing aircraft which ultimately garnered severe scrutiny from the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA).

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Amid the chaos, Boeing leaders are scheduled to meet with the FAA on the upcoming Thursday. During the meeting, the company will present plans to improve its quality control.

With inputs from agencies.
In 12 hours, parts of Porto Alegre received more rain than they typically do in a whole month, according to data from the national meteorological institute read more

Rescue workers evacuate people from a flooded area at Cavalhada neighborhood after heavy rains in Porto Alegre. Reuters

Heavy rains once again pounded parts of Brazils southernmost state on Thursday, ruining days-long clean-up efforts and flooding areas which had previously been untouched in Rio Grande do Suls capital city of Porto Alegre.

Record flooding over the past month has killed 163 people and displaced around 600,000 more. Another 64 people are still missing.

Rains had lightened up to a drizzle over the past few days, with stores beginning to open and residents working to rebuild.

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But the skies opened once more on Thursday morning, dumping heavy rains and flooding areas of Porto Alegre all over again.

One daycare in the neighbourhood of Menino Deus, which had reopened on Wednesday after a week-long clean-up, was forced to evacuate as the rains rushed in.

It all happened very quickly, (the flooding happened) much faster than last time, the director of the childcare centre, who did not give her name, said.

In 12 hours, parts of Porto Alegre received more rain than they typically do in a whole month, according to data from the national meteorological institute.

The flooding on Thursday also hit areas of Porto Alegre, such as in the south, which had previously gone unscathed.

Gimena Samuel had to call for her elderly parents to be rescued in the neighborhood of Cavalhada, where streets were flooded and cars unable to get through.

There are a lot of elderly people here who cant get out by themselves, she said.

Earlier this week, the city of Porto Alegre had asked residents to leave their trash out on the sidewalk to be thrown away. However, the fresh rains carried the trash out onto the street, clogging drains and worsening the flooding.

Porto Alegre Mayor Sebastiao Melo told reporters the city was not surprised by the downpour, but that it was excessively heavy.

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Residents, however, complained about the lack of warning.
The two days of drills in the Taiwan Strait and around groups of Taiwan-controlled islands near the Chinese coast started just three days after Lai took office. Taiwan has condemned Chinas actions read more

A person looks at a screen showing news footage of military drills conducted in areas around the island of Taiwan by the Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), in Beijing, China. Reuters

Chinas military carried out a second day of war games around Taiwan on Friday, with drills to test their ability to seize power and control key areas, exercises it has said were launched to punish Taiwans President Lai Ching-te.

The two days of drills in the Taiwan Strait and around groups of Taiwan-controlled islands near the Chinese coast started just three days after Lai took office. Taiwan has condemned Chinas actions.

China, which views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and denounces Lai as a separatist, decried his inauguration speech on Monday, in which he urged Beijing to stop its threats and said the two sides of the strait were not subordinate to each other.

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The Eastern Theatre Command of the Peoples Liberation Army said in a brief statement that its forces on Friday continued with their drills, dubbed Joint Sword - 2024A.

The exercises are to test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks and occupy key areas, it said.

China has never ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.

The command showed an animated video on Friday on its WeChat social media account of missiles being launched at Taiwan from the ground, air and sea, which then slam into the cities of Taipei, Kaohsiung and Hualien in balls of flame.

Sacred weapons to kill independence, read words in red, written in the traditional Chinese characters Taiwan uses, at the end of animation.

Taiwans armed forces have mobilised to monitor and shadow Chinese forces.

Taiwans defence ministry on Friday published pictures of F-16s, armed with live missiles, patrolling the skies.

It also showed pictures of Chinese coast guard vessels, which are taking part in the drills, and Chinese Jiangdao-class corvettes, though it did not say exactly where the images were taken.

The ministry said that as of 6 a.m. (2200GMT) on Friday, it had detected 49 Chinese military aircraft, 19 navy and seven coast guard ships. Of the aircraft, 28 crossed the straits median line, which once served as an unofficial barrier though China says it does not recognise it.

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The closest Chinese aircraft got to Taiwans coast was 40 nautical miles (74 km) from the northern city, and navy base, of Keelung, according to a map the ministry provided.

Talks rebuffed

Lai has repeatedly offered talks with China but has been rebuffed. He says only Taiwans people can decide their future, and rejects Beijings sovereignty claims.

Taiwan is well used to Chinas military threats, and the latest drills have caused no undue alarm on the island, with life carrying on as normal.

On Chinas highly regulated Weibo social media site, Eastern Theatre was the top searched item, with most of the comments supporting the drills. Another hot topic was the return of Taiwan.

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The defeated Republic of China government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedongs communists, who founded the Peoples Republic of China.

The Republic of China remains Taiwans official name, though only 12 countries formally recognise it diplomatically, mostly small, developing nations like Palau and Guatemala.

In a Friday commentary, the official newspaper of Chinas ruling Communist Party, the Peoples Daily, said it was a shared belief among Chinese people that the territory of the nation cannot be divided, the country cannot be thrown into chaos and its people cannot be separated.

The recent actions of the leader of the Taiwan region will only accelerate the destruction of pro-independence forces in Taiwan, it wrote.

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China is willing to create broad space for peaceful reunification, but will never leave any room Taiwans separatist activities, the newspaper added.

Analysts, regional diplomats and senior Taiwan officials noted that so far the scale of the drills was smaller than similar exercises in 2022 and were widely anticipated by Taiwanese and foreign officials, but they still raised the risk of accidents or miscalculations.

They said Beijing was sending a finely calibrated warning that Chinese forces could attempt a swift blockade if it wanted to bring Lai to heel.
The IMF has opened discussions with Pakistan on a new loan program after Islamabad last month completed a short-term $3 billion program. read more

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission and Pakistan have made significant progress towards reaching a staff-level agreement for an extended fund facility, the lender said, adding that it will continue to discuss terms for a fresh loan with Pakistan, indicating that further steps will be needed to clinch more aid.

Nathan Porter, the IMFs mission chief to Pakistan said that the mission and the authorities will continue policy discussions virtually over the coming days aiming to finalize discussions, including the financial support needed to underpin the authorities reform efforts.

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The IMF staff has been holding talks in Pakistan since May 13.

The IMF has opened discussions with Pakistan on a new loan programme after Islamabad last month completed a short-term $3 billion programme, which helped stave off a sovereign debt default.

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission and Pakistan have made significant progress towards reaching a staff-level agreement for an extended fund facility, the global lender said on Friday.

The IMF has opened discussions with Pakistan on a new loan programme after Islamabad last month completed a short-term $3 billion programme, which helped stave off a sovereign debt default.

An IMF team, led by mission chief Nathan Porter, concluded discussions with the authorities on Thursday after arriving in Pakistan on May 13, the lender said in a statement.

The mission and the authorities will continue policy discussions virtually over the coming days aiming to finalise discussions, including the financial support needed to underpin the authorities reform efforts from the IMF and Pakistans bilateral and multilateral partners, Porter said.

Pakistan is likely to seek at least $6 billion under the new programme and request additional financing from the IMF under the Resilience and Sustainability Trust.

Ahead of the discussions, the IMF had warned that downside risks for the Pakistani economy remained exceptionally high.

The authorities reform program aims to move Pakistan from economic stabilization to strong, inclusive, and resilient growth, Porter added.

With inputs from agencies.
If the child was also born outside of Canada, Canadian citizens who were born outside of Canada were unable to pass on their citizenship to their offspring due to the first-generation limit.They were also unable to apply for a straight citizenship grant for a child adopted from outside of Canada read more

The planned amendment came about because a judge last year declared the first generation limit to be illegal

On Thursday night, Marc Miller, Canadas immigration minister, unveiled a bill that will allow citizenship by descent to be acquired by anyone other than first-generation Canadians. The Indian diaspora, among other immigrants, has welcomed this news.

A first-generation limit was added to citizenship by descent in an amendment made to the Citizenship Act in 2009. This meant that a parent who was born in Canada or who had obtained naturalization before to the birth of the kid could only confer citizenship to a child born outside of the country.

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However, if the child was also born outside of Canada, Canadian citizens who were born outside of Canada were unable to pass on their citizenship to their offspring due to the first-generation limit.They were also unable to apply for a straight citizenship grant for a child adopted from outside of Canada.

The first generation limit was ruled to be unlawful by a court last year, which prompted the proposed modification.

The first-generation limit is demonstrated by immigration lawyer Pavan Dhillon. Mrs. A was formerly a citizen of India, where she was born. Following her immigration, she became a citizen of Canada. She gave birth to B when she got back to India. B could now become a citizen of Canada via descent.

The first-generation limit prevented Canadian citizens who were born outside of Canada from transferring their citizenship to their children, notwithstanding, if the child was also born outside of Canada.Additionally, they couldnt petition for a grant of direct citizenship for a kid adopted from outside of Canada.

The planned amendment came about because a judge last year declared the first generation limit to be illegal.

Immigration attorney Pavan Dhillon demonstrates the first-generation limit. Mrs. A was born in India, where she was formerly a citizen. She immigrated and then obtained Canadian citizenship. When she returned to India, she gave birth to B. B could now obtain Canadian citizenship by descent.

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In order for a parent born overseas to pass on citizenship to their adopted child, the proposed requirements stipulate that the parent must have physically resided in Canada for a minimum of 1,095 days prior to the adoption or birth of the child.

According to the Canadian immigration agency, in the event that the law is approved by Parliament and is ratified by the monarch, the modifications will be implemented as soon as possible. Eligible individuals will also have access to further information on the agencys website.
Prime Minister Hasinas relationship with the US has been strained before the January elections and beyond read more

While the brutal murder of Bangladeshi MP Anwarul Azim Anar in Kolkata continues to dominate news coverage in both Bangladesh and India, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina made a startling revelation about a plot to establish a Christian state like East Timor using territory from Bangladesh and Myanmar. She did not disclose which country was behind this plan.

During a 14-party meeting at the Gono Bhaban on Thursday, Prime Minister Hasina spoke of a proposal from a white man to construct an airbase in Bangladesh for a specific foreign country. In exchange, she would receive guaranteed support for a seamless re-election in the 7 January polls, which she has already won.

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According to The Daily Star, Prime Minister Hasina claimed that had she accepted this offer, her Awami League government would not have faced any difficulties. However, she pledged to prevent such a scenario from occurring.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Hasina accused the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party of attempting to sabotage the election process.

Is Prime Minister Hasina referring to US?

It is widely recognised that Prime Minister Hasinas relationship with the US has been strained even before the recent elections.

In November 2023, tensions between Bangladesh and the US intensified drawing international attention. Prime Minister Hasina and US President Joe Biden engaged in a public dispute after large-scale protests erupted in Bangladesh. Opposition parties demanded Hasinas resignation and the establishment of a caretaker government to ensure fair elections in January. Hasinas refusal to step down led to a standoff.

The US Ambassador in Dhaka subsequently met with Bangladeshs Chief Election Commissioner stressing the importance of transparent elections and urging dialogue among all political parties. This intervention was met with resistance from the Bangladeshi government. In a press conference, Prime Minister Hasina likened the ambassadors suggestion for dialogue with the opposition to a hypothetical scenario where President Biden would negotiate with his political adversary former president Donald Trump.

Despite the US imposing sanctions on Bangladeshs paramilitary forces and denying visas to their leaders, Hasina remained defiant highlighting the growing discord between the two nations. The US Treasury Department had sanctioned the Rapid Action Battalion and its former officials on 10 December, 2021.

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Further straining relations, on 21 May of this year, the US State Department labelled former Bangladesh army chief General (Retd) Aziz Ahmed as corrupt due to his alleged involvement in corruption marking him as the first Bangladeshi national publicly designated as such by the US administration.

US presence in East Timor

The US maintains a significant presence in East Timor highlighting its commitment to the region.

In January 2022, US Air Force engineers collaborated with the Timor-Leste Defence Force on construction and repair projects, part of a joint effort to rehabilitate Baucau Airfield. This initiative began in June 2021 when the US pledged over $10 million for the project in partnership with the East Timor government.

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A 2019 report from the Congressional Research Service pointed out that US relations with East Timor focus primarily on promoting stability and economic development. The country faces substantial needs in various areas including the development of democratic institutions, economic diversification and enhancing security capabilities.

Since East Timor gained independence in 2002, the US has provided $500 million in assistance. Multiple US agencies including the Departments of State, Defence and Justice, as well as USAID and the Peace Corps, are active in East Timor. US programmes in the country include training for ministry staff in finance, health, tourism and agriculture, along with International Military Education and Training courses for Timorese defence forces.

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Additionally, the first bilateral military exercise between the US Army and East Timors military, named Dalan ba Dame 21, took place from 26 July to 6 August, 2021.

US unhappy with January polls in Bangladesh

In January, following the announcement of Bangladeshs election results, the US voiced its disappointment questioning the legitimacy of Prime Minister Hasinas extended rule and criticising the electoral process.

State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller stated from Washington that the US was troubled by the arrest of thousands of opposition members and reports of election day irregularities. The United States shares the view with other observers that these elections were not free or fair, and we regret that not all parties participated, Miller said, according to an AP report.

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Miller also called on the Bangladeshi government to conduct a credible investigation into reports of violence and to hold those responsible accountable.

Despite these criticisms, the US emphasised its ongoing commitment to working with Bangladesh. The US remains dedicated to promoting a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific supporting human rights and civil society in Bangladesh and strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two nations.

Strategically, Bangladesh is a crucial partner for the US in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly alongside India, in the context of countering Chinas growing influence in the region.
On the hostages, Israelis are divided into two main camps: those who want the government to put the war on hold and free the hostages, and others who think the hostages are an unfortunate price to pay for eradicating Hamas read more

Passersby observe the photos of hostages held in the Gaza Strip that are plastered to the walls of a plaza known as Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, Israel, 17 May, 2024. AP

The bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7 were recovered overnight from Gaza, Israels army said Friday, as the top United Nations court prepares to rule on whether Israel must halt its military operations and withdraw from the enclave.

The bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez Radoux were found and their families have been notified. The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

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The announcement comes less than a week after the army said it found the bodies of three other Israeli hostages killed on October 7.

Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and abducted around 250 others in the October 7 attack. Around half of those hostages have since been freed, most in swaps for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November.

Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to both eliminate Hamas and bring all the hostages back, but hes made little progress. He faces pressure to resign, and the U.S. has threatened to scale back its support over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

On Friday Netanyahu said the country had a duty to do everything to return those abducted, both those killed and those who are alive.

The country is also expecting a ruling Friday afternoon by the International Court of Justice to decide on an urgent plea by South Africa to order Israel to cease operations. Israel is unlikely to comply with any such order. Even so, a cease-fire order by judges of the International Court of Justice would heap more pressure on an increasingly isolated Israel.

On the hostages, Israelis are divided into two main camps: those who want the government to put the war on hold and free the hostages, and others who think the hostages are an unfortunate price to pay for eradicating Hamas. On-and-off negotiations mediated by Qatar, the United States and Egypt have yielded little.

Anger is growing at home at the governments handling of the hostage crisis.

Earlier this week a group representing the families of hostages released new video footage showing Hamas capture of five female Israeli soldiers near the Gaza border on October 7.

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The video shows several of the young soldiers bloody and wounded. In one scene, a militant tells one of the terrified women she is beautiful.

The video sparked more protests across the country calling for the hostages release.

The army said on Friday the hostages were found during an operation in Jabaliya. Military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a news conference that the army was able to retrieve the bodies based on critical intelligence uncovered last week by Israeli forces operating in Gaza.

The group representing the families of the hostages said the bodies had been returned to their families for burial.

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Nisenbaum, 59, was a Brazilian-Israeli from the southern city of Sderot. He was taken hostage when he went to rescue his 4-year-old granddaughter.

Oryon Hernandez Radoux, 30, was a French-Mexican citizen taken from the Nova music festival, which he attended with his partner Shani Louk. Louks body was one of those found by the army nearly a week ago.

Yablonka, 42, a father of two, was also taken from the music festival. His family in December told the AP that he loved music. Yablonkas family had no news of him for nearly two months after hed been taken, not knowing if he was alive or dead.

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Israels offensive since the war began has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, and has caused a humanitarian crisis and a near-famine.

While it has weakened Hamas capabilities, after nearly eight months of war, militants are regrouping in some of the hardest-hit areas in northern Gaza and resuming rocket attacks into nearby Israeli communities. Israel says its troops are operating in Rafah in the south, in central Gaza and Jabaliya in the north.
Recently, a group representing the families of hostages released new video footage showing Hamas capture of five female Israeli soldiers. The video shows several of the young soldiers bloody and wounded. In one scene, a terrorist tells one of the terrified women she is beautiful. The video sparked more protests across the country calling for the hostages release. read more

Relatives and supporters of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza hold photos of their loved ones during a performance calling for their return in Tel Aviv, Israel, Thursday, May 23, 2024. Photo- AP

Benny Gantz, a member of Israels war cabinet and head of the National Unity party called for a state commission of inquiry to investigate the failures leading up to the cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7 last year.

His statement came after a video was released by the families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, which showed the capture of five female soldiers from the Nahal Oz military base in southern Israel by Hamas on October 7.

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Gantzs call for an inquiry highlights the demand for accountability and transparency regarding the events and decisions that led to the attack. Weve all witnessed the harrowing footage of the kidnapping in Nahal Oz, and weve all been part of the public discourse regarding whether or not the prime minister was warned, Gantz said in a video message, according to The Times of Israel.

Theres no denying that the period and events leading up to Oct. 7 and the ongoing campaign since then represent a national upheaval from which we must learn.

Gantz said he firmly believes that the only way to do this is through a state commission of inquiry that should be set up as soon as possible.

Earlier this week a group representing the families of hostages released new video footage showing Hamas capture of five female Israeli soldiers near the Gaza border on Oct. 7. The video shows several of the young soldiers bloody and wounded. In one scene, a terrorist tells one of the terrified women she is beautiful. The video sparked more protests across the country calling for the hostages release.

Meanwhile, the bodies of three more hostages killed on Oct 7. were recovered overnight from Gaza, Israels army said Friday.

The bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez were found and their families have been notified. The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

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The announcement comes less than a week after the army said it found the bodies of three other Israeli hostages killed on Oct. 7. Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and abducted around 250 others in the Oct. 7 attack. Around half of those hostages have since been freed, most in swaps for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November.

Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to eliminate Hamas and bring all the hostages back, but hes made little progress. He faces pressure to resign, and the U.S. has threatened to scale back its support over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

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Israelis are divided into two main camps: those who want the government to put the war on hold and free the hostages, and others who think the hostages are an unfortunate price to pay for eradicating Hamas. On-and-off negotiations mediated by Qatar, the United States and Egypt have yielded little.

With inputs from agencies.
The House Speaker also mentioned that he got approval for the same from US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and informed that the formal invitation will be sent out soon read more

Amid the brewing tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Biden administration over the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the US Speaker of the House Mike Johnson announced that the Israeli premier will give an address to a joint session of the American Congress.

While Johnson did not reveal the exact date Netanyahu will address the floor, he made it clear that the event will happen soon. This will be a timely and a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need, Johnson said in a speech at the Israeli Embassy in Washingtons annual Independence Day event, The Times of Israel reported.

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The House Speaker also mentioned that he got approval for the same from US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and informed that the formal invitation will be sent out soon.

Schumers decision to sign off the invitation came just one month after he called for early elections in Israel to replace Netanyahu. Schumer went on to refer to the Israeli Prime Minister as an obstacle to peace.

Things are not as easy as it looks

Even if a full invitation is formally extended, it is entirely not clear whether Netanyahu will accept it or not. It is pertinent to note that around 60 Democrats boycotted Netanyahus last joint address in 2015. The controversial joint session was organised by Republican Congressional leaders behind the back of then-president Barak Obama.

The Israeli premier used the platform at that time to lobby against the Nuclear deal which Washington ended up signing with Iran later that year. A much larger number of Democrats could boycott Nentanyahus address as many of them expressed discontent over the way Israel is steam-rolling into Gaza.

The war which was triggered by Hamas October 7 attack in Southern Israel has garnered severe criticism over the Netanyahu administrations complete disregard for the lives of Palestinian civilians.

The tensions between Israel and the United States have also escalated after Washington expressed their discontent over the Netanyahu administrations plan to launch a ground assault in Gaza. While Netanyahu has an invite from the Congress, he is yet to receive one from the White House.

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The Israel premiers decision to travel to the United States without an invite from the White House has the potential to reflect further cracks in Israel-US ties. The Israeli prime minister is yet to receive an invite from the White House ever since he came back to office in 2022.
North Korea has extended its run of missile tests in recent months to expand its weapons arsenal. Analysts say North Korea likely thinks a larger arsenal would increase its leverage in future diplomacy with the United States. read more

North Korea is reportedly preparing to launch its second military spy satellite into space, according to South Koreas military on Friday. This comes amid ongoing tensions over North Koreas continuous weapons tests.

In November last year, North Korea successfully placed its first military reconnaissance satellite into orbit, aiming to establish a space-based surveillance network to counter perceived military threats led by the United States. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later announced plans to launch three more military spy satellites in 2024.

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South Koreas military briefed local reporters on Friday, revealing signs of North Koreas preparations for a satellite launch at its main Tongchangri launch facility in the northwest. South Korean and U.S. intelligence authorities are closely monitoring these activities.

While the details of the briefing were shared with foreign media, including The Associated Press, the South Korean military did not immediately provide specific information about the observed activities at the Tongchangri site.

North Korea claimed that its first spy satellite, Malligyong-1, launched in November, transmitted images of key sites in the U.S. and South Korea, including the White House and the Pentagon. However, no photos were released, leading to skepticism about the satellites capabilities.

In recent months, North Korea has extended its run of missile tests to expand its weapons arsenal. Analysts say North Korea likely thinks a larger arsenal would increase its leverage in future diplomacy with the United States.

Last week, South Korea said North Korea fired suspected multiple short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast. North Korea later said it tested a tactical ballistic missile with a new autonomous navigation system.

With inputs from agencies.
The five Chinese and their Pakistani driver were killed when a suicide attacker rammed his explosive-laden car into a vehicle in the Bisham area of the restive Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province on March 26 when they were being driven to a construction site of Dasu Hydroelectric power station in Kohistan district of the same province. read more

Police officers examine the site of suicide bombing at a highway in Shangla, district in the Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on March 26, 2024. File Photo- AP

Pakistans top economic body approved $2.58 million in compensation for the families of Chinese workers who were killed in a suicide bombing on March 26, targeted a vehicle carrying five Chinese workers and their Pakistani driver in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Dasu hydropower project.

The five Chinese and their Pakistani driver were killed when a suicide attacker rammed his explosive-laden car into a vehicle in the Bisham area of the restive Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province on March 26 when they were being driven to a construction site of Dasu Hydroelectric power station in Kohistan district of the same province.

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The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of Pakistans Cabinet on Thursday decided to pay USD 2.58 million to the families of Chinese workers slain in the attack, the Dawn newspaper said. The approval of compensation for five Chinese workers of China Gezhouba Group (contractor) was approved at the rate of USD 5,16,000 per head, as a goodwill gesture, the report said.

The amount would be transferred immediately to the account of the Pakistani embassy in Beijing for onward payments to the families of the deceased Chinese nationals through appropriate channels, the newspaper quoted a top finance ministry official as saying.

The compensation announcement came a day before the 13th joint cooperation committee meeting of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and ahead of the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Beijing early next month to push for the second phase of project that has been going through a rough patch for almost five years.

Thousands of Chinese personnel are working in Pakistan on several projects being carried out under the aegis of the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Some have been attacked in recent years by militants who accuse them of exploiting mineral resources.

With inputs from PTI.
The outpost shall gather essential maritime data and intelligence, enabling the (Philippine Coast Guard) to respond effectively to threats such as illicit trade, trafficking, piracy, and foreign intrusions, National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said in a statement read more

Members of the Philippine Coast Guard stand alert as a Chinese Coast Guard vessel blocks their way to a resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. Reuters file/Representative image

The Philippines said Friday it had opened a Coast Guard post in the countrys far north to boost security following Chinas military build-up near Taiwan over the past two years.

The outpost shall gather essential maritime data and intelligence, enabling the (Philippine Coast Guard) to respond effectively to threats such as illicit trade, trafficking, piracy, and foreign intrusions, National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said in a statement.

In 2022, the area around Itbayat witnessed a military build-up as China responded to political developments between Taiwan and the United States, Ano said, announcing the opening of the station on the Philippines northernmost inhabited island.

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Itbayat is located around 150 kilometres (93 miles) south of Taiwans south coast.

Securing peace, stability, and freedom of navigation along the Luzon Strait is crucial for ensuring Philippine national security and economic prosperity, Ano said.

Ano added that he sees the Luzon Strait, which lies between the Philippines and Taiwan, both as a vital international waterway and a potential flashpoint for regional and international conflicts.

It was the focus earlier this month of major annual joint military exercises between Manila and its longtime ally the United States.

These included using missiles and artillery to repel an imaginary invasion force off the northwest of the Philippines main island of Luzon.

Last year the Philippine government also granted the US military use of a navy base on Luzons north coast and a nearby airport as part of a defence cooperation agreement.

Beijing and Manila are in a bitter diplomatic dispute over rival claims to parts of the South China Sea.

China has built artificial islands and military installations in waters close to the Philippines.

Its efforts to enforce its claims have in recent years included water cannon attacks by China Coast Guard vessels that damaged Philippine government boats and injured several crew members.

Itbayat is just outside the area designated by a vaguely defined map of dashes that China uses to claim most of the South China Sea.

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Ano made no reference to war games that China began on Thursday in which it encircled Taiwan with warplanes and naval vessels.
Putins insistence on locking in any battlefield gains in a deal is non-negotiable, all of the sources suggested. Putin would, however, be ready to settle for what land he has now and freeze the conflict at the current front lines, four of the sources told Reuters.. read more

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, four Russian sources told Reuters, saying he is prepared to fight on if Kyiv and the West do not respond.

Citing sources, Reuters reported that Putin is willing to consider a negotiated ceasefire, which would acknowledge the current front lines of the battlefield. However, they also indicate that Putin is adamant about continuing the fight if there is no response from Kyiv and the West.

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Insiders familiar with discussions within Putins inner circle have revealed that the Russian leader has expressed frustration over what he perceives as Western interference hindering peace negotiations. Also, Putin is said to be disappointed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiys refusal to engage in talks.

Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war, said another of the four, a senior Russian source who has worked with Putin and has knowledge of top level conversations in the Kremlin. He, like the others cited in this story, spoke on condition of anonymity given the matters sensitivity.

For this account, Reuters spoke to a total of five people who work with or have worked with Putin at a senior level in the political and business worlds. The fifth source did not comment on freezing the war at the current frontlines.

Putins spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in response to a request for comment, said the Kremlin chief had repeatedly made clear Russia was open to dialogue to achieve its goals, saying the country did not want eternal war.

The appointment last week of economist Andrei Belousov as Russias defence minister was seen by some Western military and political analysts as placing the Russian economy on a permanent war footing in order to win a protracted conflict.

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It followed sustained battlefield pressure and territorial advances by Russia in recent weeks. However, the sources said that Putin, re-elected in March for a new six-year term, would rather use Russias current momentum to put the war behind him. They did not directly comment on the new defence minister.

Based on their knowledge of conversations in the upper ranks of the Kremlin, two of the sources said Putin was of the view that gains in the war so far were enough to sell a victory to the Russian people.

Europes biggest ground conflict since World War Two has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides and led to sweeping Western sanctions on Russias economy.

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Three sources said Putin understood any dramatic new advances would require another nationwide mobilisation, which he didnt want, with one source, who knows the Russian president, saying his popularity dipped after the first mobilisation in September 2022.

The national call up spooked part of the population in Russia, triggering hundreds of thousands of draft age men to leave the country. Polls showed Putins popularity falling by several points.

Peskov said Russia had no need for mobilisation and was instead recruiting volunteer contractors to the armed forces.

The prospect of a ceasefire, or even peace talks, currently seems remote.

Zelenskiy has repeatedly said peace on Putins terms is a non-starter. He has vowed to retake lost territory, including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. He signed a decree in 2022 that formally declared any talks with Putin impossible.

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One of the sources predicted no agreement could happen while Zelenskiy was in power, unless Russia bypassed him and struck a deal with Washington. However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Kyiv last week, told reporters he did not believe Putin was interested in serious negotiations.

SWISS TALKS

Ukraine is preparing for talks hosted by Switzerland next month aimed at unifying international opinion on how to end the war. The talks were convened at the initiative of Zelenskiy who has said Putin should not attend. Switzerland has not invited Russia.

Moscow has said the talks are not credible without it being there. Ukraine and Switzerland want Russian allies including China to attend.

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Speaking in China on May 17, Putin said Ukraine may use the Swiss talks to get a broader group of countries to back Zelenskiys demand for a total Russian withdrawal, which Putin said would be an imposed condition rather than a serious peace negotiation.

The Swiss foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

We are ready for discussion. We never refused, Putin said in China.

The Kremlin says it does not comment on the progress of what it calls its special military operation in Ukraine, but has repeatedly said Moscow is open to the idea of talks based on the new realities on the ground.

In response to questions for this story, a U.S. State Department spokesperson said any initiative for peace must respect Ukraines territorial integrity, within its internationally recognised borders and described Russia as the sole obstacle to peace in Ukraine.

The Kremlin has yet to demonstrate any meaningful interest in ending its war, quite the opposite, the spokesperson said.

In the past, Kyiv has dismissed Russias purported readiness to talk as an attempt to shift the blame onto it for the war.

Kyiv says Putin, whose team repeatedly denied he was planning a war before invading Ukraine in 2022, cannot be trusted to honour any deal.

Both Russia and Ukraine have also said they fear the other side would use any ceasefire to re-arm.

Kyiv and its Western backers are banking on a $61 billion U.S. aid package and additional European military aid to reverse what Zelenskiy described to Reuters this week as one of the most difficult moments of the full scale war.

As well as shortages of ammunition after U.S. delays in approving the package, Ukraine has admitted it is struggling to recruit enough troops and last month lowered the age for men who can be drafted to 25 from 27.

TERRITORY

Putins insistence on locking in any battlefield gains in a deal is non-negotiable, all of the sources suggested. Putin would, however, be ready to settle for what land he has now and freeze the conflict at the current front lines, four of the sources told Reuters..

Putin will say that we won, that NATO attacked us and we kept our sovereignty, that we have a land corridor to Crimea, which is true, one of them said, giving their own analysis.

Freezing the conflict along current lines would leave Russia in possession of substantial chunks of four Ukrainian regions he formally incorporated into Russia in September 2022, but without full control of any of them.

Such an arrangement would fall short of the goals Moscow set for itself at the time, when it said the four of Ukraines regions - Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson - now belonged to it in their entirety.

Peskov said that there could be no question of handing back the four regions which were now permanently part of Russia according to its own constitution.

Another factor playing into the Kremlin chiefs view that the war should end is that the longer it drags on, the more battle-hardened veterans return to Russia, dissatisfied with post-war job and income prospects, potentially creating tensions in society, said one of the sources, who has worked with Putin.

RUSSIA WILL PUSH FURTHER

In February, three Russian sources told Reuters the United States rejected a previous Putin suggestion of a ceasefire to freeze the war.

In the absence of a ceasefire, Putin wants to take as much territory as possible to ratchet up pressure on Ukraine while seeking to exploit unexpected opportunities to acquire more, three of the sources said.

Russian forces control around 18% of Ukraine and this month thrust into the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

Putin is counting on Russias large population compared to Ukraine to sustain superior manpower even without a mobilisation, bolstered by unusually generous pay packets for those who sign up.

Russia will push further, the source who has worked with Putin said.

Putin will slowly conquer territories until Zelenskiy comes up with an offer to stop, the person said, saying the Russian leader had expressed the view to aides that the West would not provide enough weapons, sapping Ukraines morale.

U.S. and European leaders have said they will stand by Ukraine until its security sovereignty is guaranteed. NATO countries and allies say they are trying to accelerate deliveries of weapons.

Russia could end the war at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine, instead of continuing to launch brutal attacks against Ukraines cities, ports, and people every day, the State Department said in response to a question about weapons supplies.

All five sources said Putin had told advisers he had no designs on NATO territory, reflecting his public comments on the matter. Two of the sources cited Russian concerns about the growing danger of escalation with the West, including nuclear escalation, over the Ukraine standoff.

The State Department said the United States had not adjusted its nuclear posture, nor seen any sign that Russia was preparing to use a nuclear weapon.

We continue to monitor the strategic environment and remain ready, the spokesperson said.
More than 20 people on the flight have suffered spinal injuries due to the turbulence, the head of a hospital in Bangkok said. A two-year child is among the 46 passengers and two cabin crew who are still receiving treatment at the hospital read more

Airport officials gather near the aircraft ladder attached to the Singapore Airlines aircraft for flight SQ321 parked on the tarmac after an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, in Bangkok, Thailand, 22 May, 2024. Reuters

Singapore Airlines has come up with new safety guidelines after one of its aircraft, Boeing 777-300ER, experienced severe turbulence, killing one passenger and injuring others including members of the cabin crew.

The flight from London bound for Singapore fell into an air pocket earlier this week while cabin crew were serving breakfast before it encountered turbulence, prompting the pilots to request an emergency landing, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport general manager Kittipong Kittikachorn told a press conference.

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Passengers have recounted the horrific time they spent on the flight, with many saying it was the longest two hours they have spent on a flight. As many as 20 people ended up in intensive care in various Bangkok hospitals.

There was little warning of the chaos that was to come as passengers on Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 relaxed with just three hours to Singapore after a long-haul flight from London.

What are the new guidelines?

Meal services will be suspended whenever the seatbelt sign is on. Earlier, only hot drinks were cut off in the event of turbulence, but now all meal and drink services would be stopped, according to a report by Strait Times

Cabin crew will also be required to be seated when the seat-belt sign lights up

Along with the new guidelines, cabin crew will be asked to follow the older rules more closely to minimise damage and injury during turbulences

Flight attendants will secure any loose items in the cabin along with instructing passengers to remain seated during rough flights

Passengers suffer spinal injuries

More than 20 people on the flight have suffered spinal injuries due to the turbulence, the head of a hospital in Bangkok said. A two-year child is among the 46 passengers and two cabin crew who are still receiving treatment at the hospital.

Patients are currently receiving treatment for skull and brain injuries, muscular and soft tissue conditions and spine and spinal cord damage.

As many as 17 people have undergone surgery with nine of them suffering from spinal injuries.

With inputs from agencies
While Zumas name will be removed from MKs list of parliamentary candidates, his face will remain on the elections ballot papers as he is the registered leader of the party read more

South Africas former president Jacob Zuma said on Thursday that he will fight for his rights, after the countrys top court ruled that he was not eligible to run for parliament in next weeks election.

The constitutional court ruled on Monday that Zumas 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court in 2021 disqualified him from standing in the May 29 vote, as the constitution prohibits anyone given a prison sentence of 12 months or longer from holding a parliamentary seat.

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Judges of the constitutional court have taken a decision that I cant exercise my freedom, my democracy, Zuma said in a YouTube video shared by his uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party.

I am going to fight for my rights until this country agrees that freedom must be a complete freedom, not for some and oppression for others.

While Zumas name will be removed from MKs list of parliamentary candidates, his face will remain on the elections ballot papers as he is the registered leader of the party.

Zuma endorsed MK in December, when he announced he would not campaign for the governing African National Congress (ANC), which he led from 2007 until 2017.

He resigned as South Africas president in 2018, under pressure from current ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosas allies in the party, after nine years as head of state marred by corruption scandals and slowing economic growth.

Zumas jailing in 2021 triggered riots in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal in which more than 300 people died. The riots morphed into a wider spate of looting.

There had been fears that this weeks court ruling could prompt a violent reaction from Zumas supporters, but that has not materialised.
The retired Army Major General along with his wife were arrested from the Colombo suburb of Wattala on Thursday. The wife was released on bail on being produced before the court. The total number arrested so far has now risen to 9 while the police remain on the lookout for more arrests, authorities said. read more

Firefighters hose down a fire as a lifeless body lies under the rubble after a Russian missile hit a large printing house in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Thursday, May 23, 2024. - AP

A retired Sri Lankan Army Major General and his wife have been arrested in connection with a human smuggling racket that facilitated the movement of former military personnel to serve on the war front in Russia and Ukraine. With this arrest, the total number of people detained or arrested in relation to this operation has reached to nine.

According to reports, these Sri Lankan mercenaries were misled by unscrupulous foreign employment agencies that promised them legitimate job opportunities abroad. Instead, they were recruited to join the ongoing conflicts in Russia and Ukraine.

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The police have said that the arrests are part of a broader investigation into the network responsible for these illicit activities, aiming to dismantle the smuggling racket and prevent further exploitation of former military personnel.

The retired Army Major General along with his wife were arrested from the Colombo suburb of Wattala on Thursday. The wife was released on bail on being produced before the court. The total number arrested so far has now risen to 9 while the police remain on the lookout for more arrests, authorities said.

The suspects now arrested include two retired Major Generals and a Sergeant of the Sri Lanka Army. On Thursday, five suspects were produced before the Negombo Magistrates Court which remanded them till May 30.

Earlier this month, a Sri Lankan court remanded till May 30 the five suspects, including a retired Major General, arrested in connection with a human smuggling operation to send former military personnel to serve in the Russian and Ukrainian forces amidst their ongoing war.

Sri Lanka blamed unscrupulous employment agencies and ex-servicemen for being part of the racket. At least eight Sri Lankans have died on the battlefront while more remain missing with their families back home being unable to make contact, according to the latest information.

Sri Lanka last week said a high-powered delegation would soon visit Russia to engage with the Russian authorities on the issue of mercenaries.
The conflict in the region has intensified with the Houthis launching anti-ship ballistic missiles and drones in support of Palestinians in Gaza. These attacks, targeting what the Houthis claim are Israeli-linked ships transiting the Red Sea, began in November of the previous year. read more

Warplanes of the US-British coalition conducted two airstrikes on Hodeidah airport in western Yemen late Thursday night, as reported by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV.

The Hodeidah airport is situated in the southern part of the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, which is under the control of the Houthi group. The airport has been closed since late 2014 when the Houthis seized several northern cities, including Hodeidah. Residents reported hearing significant explosions at the airport.

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The conflict in the region has intensified with the Houthis launching anti-ship ballistic missiles and drones in support of Palestinians in Gaza. These attacks, targeting what the Houthis claim are Israeli-linked ships transiting the Red Sea, began in November of the previous year.

In retaliation, the U.S.-British naval coalition has been carrying out air raids and missile strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen since January. This has led to an escalation, with the Houthis expanding their attacks to include U.S. and British commercial vessels and naval ships.

Meanwhile, a missile splashed down in the waters of the Red Sea on Thursday this week, but caused no damage to a passing commercial vessel in an attack likely carried out by Yemens Houthi rebels, officials said.

The Houthis have launched attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in recent months, demanding that Israel ends the war in Gaza. The war began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking some 250 hostages.

The Houthis have launched more than 50 attacks on shipping, seized one vessel and sunk another since November, according to the United States Maritime Administration.

Shipping through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden has declined because of the threat. In recent weeks, the tempo of Houthi attacks has dropped, though the rebels have claimed shooting down U.S. surveillance drones.

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On Tuesday, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed that they shot down an American drone over the country on the Arabian Peninsula.
In a press conference, Yellen welcomed the plan but added that we must also continue our collective work on more ambitious options, considering all relevant risks and acting together read more

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Thursday urged G7 ministers meeting in Italy to consider more ambitious options to use frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine.

The ministers and central bankers from the Group of Seven world powers are meeting in Stresa, on the shores of northern Italys Lake Maggiore, to prepare for a summit of G7 heads of state next month in Puglia.

Yellen said the group would also discuss what Washington considers to be overcapacity of key green technologies from China such as electric vehicles, batteries and solar panels.

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Top of the agenda is a plan to finance crucial aid to war-torn Ukraine using the interest generated by the 300 billion euros ($325 billion) of Russian central bank assets frozen by the G7 and Europe.

The European Union earlier this month approved using the profits from the assets it froze to arm Ukraine, hoping to raise up to three billion euros a year.

In a press conference, Yellen welcomed the plan but added that we must also continue our collective work on more ambitious options, considering all relevant risks and acting together.

The United States has proposed granting Ukraine up to $50 billion in loans secured by interest on the assets.

But the details have not been finalised, including whether the debt would be issued by the United States alone or G7 countries as a whole.

Yellen had initially advocated a more radical solution  the confiscation of the Russian assets themselves.

But European countries worried about creating a precedent in international law and the risk of serious legal disputes with Moscow.

As the G7 ministers gathered, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree allowing the confiscation of assets inside Russia belonging to US companies or citizens.

Many Western companies have left Russia since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine and the Western sanctions that followed, but those that remain risk having their assets seized.

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In addition to the United States and Italy  which is G7 president this year  the group includes Britain, Canada, France, Germany and Japan.

Legal issues

Yellen said she was looking for general agreement on the concept of a deal on assets, to form the basis of concrete options to be presented to G7 leaders meeting from June 13-15.

She added that while the 50-billion-euro figure was being discussed, there hasnt been a decision on an amount.

Failure to take additional action is not an option  not for Ukraines future and not for the stability of our own economies and the security of our peoples, Yellen said.

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Experts have warned any further G7 action against Russia could lead to similar reprisals against European companies still operating in the country.

In April, Moscow took temporary control of the Russian subsidiary of the Italian heating equipment group Ariston in retaliation for what it called hostile actions by Washington and its allies.

Italys economy minister, Giancarlo Giorgetti, told journalists a solid legal basis had to be found.

Now the problem is how we are able to use the future windfall profits to build a loan facility for Ukraine, he said.

Perhaps for the next political summit in Puglia we will reach a solution, he added.

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His German counterpart Christian Lindner was sceptical, saying: There are many unresolved questions, many open questions, its now the time to speak about them but Im not expecting a decision, the subject is too complex.

John Kirton, director of the University of Torontos G7 Research Group, said that tapping just the interest on Russian assets would considerably reduce the legal problems.

Legally, it would not be confiscating the assets, he told AFP.

France on Wednesday welcomed the US plan with Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire saying the US proposals fall within the framework of international law.

China overproduction

The G7 ministers will also discuss concerns that Chinese government support for green technologies is leading to more production capacity than global markets can absorb, driving cheap exports and stifling growth elsewhere.

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Overcapacity threatens the viability of firms around the world, including in emerging markets, Yellen said.

She added: Its critical that we and the growing numbers of countries who have identified this as a concern present a clear and united front.

France is also pushing for discussion in Stresa of a proposal championed by G20 head Brazil on a global tax on the worlds wealthiest.

But Yellen said she was opposed to this particular formulation that would redistribute proceeds among countries based on their exposure to climate-related damage.
The continent of Africa has had difficulty obtaining the funding required to develop its industrial and technology sectors. Foreign direct investment in the continent dropped to $45 billion in 2022 from a record high of $80 billion in 2021, according to a UN report from the previous year read more

The statement on Friday is a follow-up to Harris's trip to the continent in the previous year, which coincided with Kenyan President William Ruto's visit to Washington this week Image Courtesy AP

US Vice President Kamala Harris is declaring the creation of a new alliance to assist in bringing internet connectivity to 80% of Africa by 2030, an increase from the current 40%.

The statement on Friday is a follow-up to Harriss trip to the continent in the previous year, which coincided with Kenyan President William Rutos visit to Washington this week. At the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Harris was supposed to speak with the Kenyan leader over a fireside conversation about how public-private partnerships may boost economic growth.

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The continent of Africa has had difficulty obtaining the funding required to develop its industrial and technology sectors. Foreign direct investment in the continent dropped to $45 billion in 2022 from a record high of $80 billion in 2021, according to a UN report from the previous year. Africa, home to almost 18% of the worlds population, received just 3.5% of foreign direct investment globally.

In addition to establishing the nonprofit Partnership for Digital Access in Africa to enhance internet connectivity, Democratic Congressman Martin Harris is launching a new program intended to provide 100 million Africans with access to the digital economy, particularly for those in the agricultural sector.

The African Development Bank Group will assist in forming the Mobilizing Access to the Digital Economy Alliance, or MADE, along with Mastercard and other organizations. Before going nationwide, the coalition will launch a trial program to provide 3 million farmers in Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria with internet access.

In addition, Harristhe first female vice president of the United Statesannounces that over $1 billion in public and private commitments have been made as part of the Women in the Digital Economy initiative to close the gender gap in technology access, with certain U.S. contributions still awaiting congressional approval.
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Pakistan launches public awareness campaign to combat ongoing heat wave

Xinhua) 10:13, May 24, 2024

ISLAMABAD, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani government has launched a public awareness campaign to counter the adverse impacts of the severe ongoing heat wave spell in the South Asian country, coordinator to the Pakistani prime minister on climate change and environmental coordination Romina Khurshid Alam said on Thursday.

"Measures are being taken to spread mass awareness for the public through adopting preventive measures about heat waves and to reduce its impacts through issuing advisories, public service messages, and awareness campaigns through television, radio and social media platforms," the official said during a press conference.

Commenting on the country's hardest-hit areas, Alam said that 13 districts of southern Sindh province, nine in eastern Punjab province, and four districts of southwest Balochistan are experiencing severe heat waves.

"Rising global temperature across the world is a matter of serious concern. In Pakistan, the months of May and June are recorded as driest and hottest with higher monthly average temperatures," she said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Thursday Night

Partly cloudy in the evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers after midnight. Low 47F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Cell phones allow kids to stay in contact with their friends and families, remain in the loop on social media trends, and stay up to date on w
China's state security authorities unveil espionage case involving military expert, sentenced to 15 years in prison

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 23, 2024 11:15 PM

China's Ministry of State Security on Thursday unveiled details of an espionage case involving a military expert who was compromised while participating in an international conference. Initially denying accusations, he eventually admitted to his illegal activities when faced with irrefutable evidence, leading to a 15-year prison sentence.

The ministry reminded relevant personnel, especially those in sensitive key positions, to enhance their awareness and capabilities in safeguarding national security.

As economic development continues to grow and foreign exchange activities increase, foreign intelligence agencies are increasingly working with and recruiting individuals from important units in China to conduct espionage operations, the ministry said.

Taking the case of the military expert, surnamed Zhang, as an example. Born to a poor farming family, Zhang worked hard to perform well in his studies. In 1986, he enrolled in a university in China, specializing in navigation engineering with a focus on automatic control. Upon graduating, Zhang was assigned to a military industry unit. He is mainly engaged in military technology research and has led a team to make significant contributions to scientific and technological progress on national level.

Zhang met a foreign expert at an academic conference overseas in 2004 and maintained contact with the "expert." With the help of the "expert," Zhang was able to study abroad at a well-known university in 2011. After arriving at the country, Zhang was questioned by customs officials of that country.

In February 2012, Zhang met another person Jack, introduced by A and his assistant, during attending an international conference overseas. Jack claimed to be from a foreign naval research institute and quickly established a close relationship with Zhang by taking him on tours, lavish outings, and giving him expensive gifts. Jack also promised to help Zhang's daughter study abroad and obtain residency rights.

Jack eventually disclosed that he was an intelligence officer working overseas as a spy, seeking to collaborate with Zhang. Despite initial hesitation, Zhang ultimately agreed to work with the spy. Zhang gathered military industry intelligence and shared crucial technological secrets, resulting in significant damage to national interests, according to the ministry.

In December 2013, after a thorough investigation, the national security authorities took lawful enforcement measures against Zhang, who was about to meet with foreign intelligence agents overseas. Zhang was sentenced to 15 years in prison for espionage in accordance with law, according to the ministry.

National security authorities also reminded citizens to comply with laws and regulations, raise awareness of anti-espionage, be cautious with unidentified individuals, protect national secrets, and follow confidentiality rules during cultural or academic exchanges.

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Submarine cables become tool for certain countries to steal intelligence: China's National Security Ministry

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 24, 2024 11:47 AM

Submarine cables have in recent years become a tool for some countries to steal intelligence information and even seek geopolitical interests, China's Ministry of State Security revealed on Friday.

Materials exposed by former US intelligence department employee Edward Snowden show that US' National Security Agency has for decades had an "Upstream" program parallel to the "Prism" program, using its bandwidth advantage to carry out round-the-clock, large-scale monitoring and eavesdropping activities on global submarine cables, severely weakening the reliability of the global network communication infrastructure and posing a huge threat to the information security of countries around the world.

Submarine cables are important infrastructure that maintains communication and trade between different countries, serving as the core carrier for countries around the world to participate in global economic and social activities in the digital economy era. They handle 99 percent of global intercontinental communication and data flow, serving as the international communication artery that ensures the stable operation of global communication and economic cooperation.

In the context of rapid development in networking, digitization, and intelligence, submarine cables play a crucial role in connecting different countries across the oceans and providing communication services to remote areas, occupying an indispensable position in the global communication network system.

The submarine cable industrial chain includes cable production, surveying, construction, and maintenance. The industry has high technological barriers, large construction difficulties, and has formed a highly concentrated global industrial structure.

With continuous increase in funding and technological investment, China has gradually caught up with the pace of international advanced technology development, continuously breaking through in the field of high-end technology equipment, and has now become one of the few countries in the world with a complete submarine cable industrial chain. China deeply participates in international submarine cable construction and has achieved fruitful results.

However, some countries, in order to maintain a hegemonic position, frequently impose sanctions on Chinese companies in related fields with the excuse of national security, and even cooperate with allies to strengthen containment and suppression, seriously hindering the development of related industries in China.

Submarine cables are hidden deep beneath the sea, and they carry important and sensitive information in various fields such as politics, military, economy, and society. They are out of sight and difficult to protect. Once they are damaged or infiltrated, it will not only pose serious data security risks but also require a significant amount of time and resources to recover. This will inevitably cause immeasurable and significant losses to national security and social development.

Facing a severe and complex situation and the real threat from foreign intelligence agencies, the state security authorities will adhere to the overall national security concept, closely guard against and lawfully combat the infiltration, sabotage, and espionage activities of foreign forces on our underwater critical infrastructure and cross-border information data. China will effectively strengthen its ability and level of safeguarding security in emerging fields, and fully defend our country's sovereignty, security, and development interests.

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AFRICOM Leader Focuses on African Maritime Security in the West Indian Ocean

Ambassador Robert Scott, deputy commander for civil-military engagement at U.S. Africa Command, visited Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles May 11-18 to meet with partner nation government officials and discuss the countries' regional efforts to address maritime security challenges.

By U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs , United States Africa Command Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles May 22, 2024

Ambassador Robert Scott, deputy commander for civil-military engagement at U.S. Africa Command, visited Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles May 11-18 to meet with partner nation government officials and discuss the countries' regional efforts to address maritime security challenges.

"This was a valuable trip, and I was able to meet and have good discussions with ministers in all three nations," Scott said. "I also visited coast guard facilities and the regional maritime information and operations centers in Madagascar and Seychelles."

While in Port Louis, Mauritius, Scott conducted an office call with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, The Honorable Maneesh Gobin, followed by a meeting with the Secretary of Home Affairs Ravi Meettook.

"It was an honor to meet with Minister Gobin and discuss the enduring partnership between the United States and Mauritius," Scott said. "Our discussions highlighted the shared commitment to addressing maritime security challenges and fostering regional stability, crucial for both our nations' interests."

Scott said his meeting with Secretary Meettook was highly productive as well.

"We explored avenues for enhanced cooperation in civil-military engagement, focusing on strengthening our collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and security of Mauritius and the broader Indian Ocean region," he said.

The ambassador also met with Rashidali Issa Beekun, Deputy Commissioner of Police; Chetanandsingh Dawonauth, Superintendent of Police; and Captain C.G. Binoop, Commandant of the National Coast Guard, at the at the Line Barracks Police Station. The visit was followed by a tour conducted by the National Coast Guard including walkthroughs of the MCGS Barracuda and MCGS Victory.

In Seychelles, Ambassador Scott met with Foreign Affairs and Tourism Principal Secretary Ambassador Vivian Fock Tave and Minister of Internal Affairs Erik Fonseka.

"It was an honor to engage with Ambassador Fock Tave and Minister Fonseka," Scott said. "Our discussions underscored the robust partnership between the United States and Seychelles, particularly in maritime security. Their insights and commitment are invaluable as we work together to strengthen regional stability and security."

Following these meetings, Chief of Defense Forces Brigadier Michael Rosette and Chief of Staff Colonel Jean Attala led a tour of the Seychelles Coast Guard base. Scott also conducted an office call with Designated Minister for Fisheries and Blue Economy, Jean-Francois Ferrari.

A focus throughout the trip was on the impact to the countries and ways to counter maritime security challenges the islands face, in waters that are seeing increasing traffic.

"Piracy, IUU fishing, trafficking, and other maritime security challenges severely impact the economies of African coastal nations," Scott said. "Supporting their efforts is crucial, especially given the increased maritime traffic due to the conflict in the Gulf of Aden."

Scott's visits to the Regional Coordination Operations Centre in Seychelles and Regional Maritime Information Fusion Center in Madagascar showcased how nations in the West Indian Ocean are working to counter these challenges.

The RCOC and the RMIFC are pivotal components of the Regional Maritime Security Architecture for the Western Indian Ocean. Funded by the EU's Maritime Security in Eastern & Southern Africa & Indian Ocean (MASE) program and led by the Indian Ocean Commission, these centers focus on information exchange, sharing, and joint maritime operations. The centers focus on information exchange and sharing, and joint operations at sea. Working from information and intelligence provided from the RMIFC, the RCOC coordinates regional operations to combat illegal maritime activities.

The ambassador's visit highlights U.S. Africa Command's 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, is one of 11 U.S. Department of Defense combatant commands, each with a geographic or functional mission that provides command and control of military forces in peace and war. U.S. Africa Command employs the broad-reaching diplomacy, development, and defense approach to foster interagency efforts and help negate the drivers of conflict and extremism in Africa.

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Virginia Guard, Tajik Partners Conduct Mountain Warfare Exchange

By Mike Vrabel, Virginia National Guard Public Affairs May 22, 2024

ROMIT, Tajikistan -- Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 276th Engineer Battalion, 329th Regional Support Group, conducted a mountain warfare exchange with Tajik military forces Apr. 29 to May 3 in Romit.

The exchange supported the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program. Virginia and Tajikistan have been partners since 2003.

Tajikistan agencies participating in the exchange included the Ministry of Defense's Peacekeeping Battalion and members of the Tajik National Guard.

During the training, three engineers assigned to the 276th shared lessons learned and best practices of mountain warfare operations, including knot-tying, rappelling, and rope bridge implementation.

The exchange culminated with a timed test. Participants rappelled down a 100-meter cliff face and back and were evaluated on their knowledge of different knots.

The Virginia Army National Guard team included Sgt. 1st Class Frank Barmes, Sgt. 1st Class Richard Test and Sgt. Chris McClelland.

"Together, the three engineers brought decades worth of military and civilian experience and insight into the exchange," said Master Sgt. Daniel Timberlake, the VNG J3 joint operations noncommissioned officer in charge.

The mountain warfare exchange was the third in the past three years.

In July, the VNG and Tajikistan celebrated the 20th anniversary of their partnership in the SPP. The relationship has benefitted all parties, from sharing subject matter expertise throughout 200 military-to-military engagements that help counter terrorism, deter violent extremism, expand emergency response capabilities, develop professionalism among leaders and staffs and promote shared values in national sovereignty and security.

The VNG also formalized its partnership with Finland in 2024.

The SPP program began in 1993 and has grown to include the National Guard in every state, three territories and the District of Columbia, and more than 100 nations.

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Secretary Blinken's Call with Democratic Republic of the Congo President Tshisekedi

US Department of State

Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

May 22, 2024

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi. Secretary Blinken condemned the attack on political leaders and institutions in Gombe and offered U.S. support for the government's investigation into the attack. The Secretary and the President discussed the eastern DRC crisis and the need for additional measures to restore peace and stability, including support for the Luanda Process. Secretary Blinken and President Tshisekedi also discussed the dire humanitarian situation in eastern DRC, with a special focus on the need to address alarming reports of sexual exploitation of vulnerable persons around Goma.

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May 23, 2024

By Joseph Clark, DOD News

More Than 1 Million Pounds of Aid Moved Into Gaza Via DOD's Temporary Pier

U.S. forces have facilitated the transfer of more than 1 million pounds of humanitarian assistance into Gaza via the Defense Department's Joint Logistics, Over-the-Shore pier, a senior military official said today.

Navy Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, said 820 metric tons, or 1.2 million pounds, of aid have been transferred to a beach transfer point on Gaza's shore since the temporary pier became operational on May 17.

Of that, 506 metric tons, or two-thirds of total aid transferred via the maritime corridor to the beach transfer point, has been distributed by the United Nations further into Gaza, Cooper said, citing figures current as of last night.

The effort, led by the U.S. Agency for International Development, is being carried out as part of the United States' broader efforts alongside international partners to surge assistance to Palestinians in need.

"U.S. Central Command forces continue to support USAID's provision of humanitarian assistance into Gaza from the sea as part of our government policy to flood the zone with humanitarian assistance," Cooper said.

Construction of the pier began late last month after President Joe Biden called on the military to conduct the emergency operation during his State of the Union address.

Soldiers from the Army's 7th Transportation Brigade at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, and sailors from Naval Beach Group 1 at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, were tapped to deploy the JLOTS capability.

Delivering the capability involved a complex choreography of logistics support and landing crafts that carry the equipment used to construct the approximately 1,800-foot causeway comprising modular, floating sections linked together.

The units also constructed a roll-on, roll-off discharge facility that is 72 feet wide by 270 feet long. The discharge facility will remain about far off Gaza's shore and enable cargo ships to offload aid shipments at sea prior to being transported to shore.

About 1,000 soldiers and sailors are involved in the operation.

The U.S. is also working closely with Cyprus, the government of Israel, the U.N. and international donors including the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and European Union as part of the multi-step process to move aid into Gaza from the sea.

International donors first ship aid into Cyprus where it is screened and packaged before being loaded onto ships to be transported to the temporary pier.

From the pier, the aid is offloaded into a marshaling area before being distributed further into Gaza by humanitarian organizations.

Officials emphasized that no U.S. boots are on the ground in Gaza as part of the operation, and that safety of U.S. forces is the top priority.

The distribution of aid into Gaza once offloaded from the pier is being done solely by humanitarian aid workers.

"This is a complex humanitarian aid mission that requires continuous coordination between many partners," said Dan Dieckhaus, the director of USAID's response operations. "The support and contributions of the U.N., the government of Cyprus and other international partners, including the U.K., European Union, United Arab Emirates, France, Romania and others is vital, as is the cooperation of Israel."

In addition to operating the pier, the U.S. has stood up a coordination cell to ensure operations are carried out as safely and efficiently as possible.

"Our commitment to the safety of humanitarian workers requires a meticulous approach to distribution, route planning and convoy monitoring with various stakeholders, especially the U.N., to reduce risk," Cooper said. "We're doing this collaboratively with the Israeli Defense Forces and the United Nations who are embedded in our combined coordination cell."

Cooper emphasized that despite measures to mitigate risk, the environment remains "very complex and dynamic."

Still, he said the U.S. aims to continue increasing the flow of aid.

"We have thousands of tons of aid in the pipeline," he said, adding "we do encourage international donors to continue their contributions so that we can sustain and increase the volume of lifesaving aid getting to the people of Gaza every day."

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May 23, 2024

By Joseph Clark, DOD News

U.S. Conducts Large-Scale Logistics Exercise With Saudi, Emirati Partners

U.S. and partner forces from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are set to conclude this year's large-scale exercise showcasing the three countries' combined logistics capabilities.

The U.S. Marine Corps-led Native Fury 24  an exercise that's in its ninth iteration this year  put combined, joint interoperability to the test through a series of complex logistics maneuvers, dynamic combat training evolutions, and convoys spanning more than 1,000 miles across two countries.

More than 600 Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen and took part in Native Fury 24 alongside their partner nation counterparts.

This year marked the first time the exercise has featured bilateral operations with both the Royal Saudi Armed Forces and United Arab Emirates Armed Forces.

The exercise began earlier this month when equipment was offloaded at Saudi Arabia's Yanbu Port on the Red Sea. The equipment was then transported to a logistics staging area where it was prepared for the long-range convoy along the Trans-Arabian Network, a collection of seaports, airports and road networks connecting countries throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

Along the way, the U.S. conducted bi-lateral, live-fire and airport-repair training alongside the Royal Saudi Armed Forces at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, before conducting a border crossing into the UAE.

Once in the UAE, the U.S. and UAE forces conducted convoy training, as well as refueling operations on Emirati helicopters.

Throughout the journey, U.S. Army forces leapfrogged the Marine Corps-led convoy to set up facilities for overnight stops.

The convoy ended at the UAE Port of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman where the equipment was loaded onto a vessel for transport back the U.S.

Marine Corps Col. Matthew Hakola, director of logistics for Marine Corps Forces Central Command and the exercise control group director for Native Fury 24, said the exercise serves as key demonstration of the United States' ability to carry out complex, combined, joint exercises with partner nations.

"I think we are the best in the world at this type of thing  being able to cross the Atlantic with equipment and unload it in a relatively rapid manner and, more importantly, being able to support it once it's on the ground," Hakola said.

Those complex logistics, he said, are vital to the United States' ability to operate anywhere around the globe.

Throughout the exercise, the U.S. built upon important partnerships with the Saudi and Emirati forces, said Hakola, who served as the exercise control group director for the previous iteration of Native Fury.

He said this year it was evident that the three countries had made long strides in working together.

"I definitely saw marked improvement from the last Native Fury to this Native Fury on them thinking through the same problem sets that we think through," Hakola said. "The coordination [and] the inter-ministry coordination they provided was almost seamless."

Exercising that coordination is key to operating together effectively in the event of a real-world scenario.

The exercise also provides an opportunity for U.S. service members to build the bonds with their foreign counterparts that are important to operating effectively together.

"That's probably the most professionally rewarding part of it," he said. "We're all humans, and it's just rewarding in that sense, and they've been great hosts," Hakola said.

"It's been a very successful exercise."

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Former Venezuelan Military Official Sentenced for Money Laundering and Bribery Scheme

Thursday, May 23, 2024

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

A former officer in the Venezuelan National Guard was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for participating in a money laundering scheme that involved bribes to foreign officials and defrauding foreign financial institutions.

According to court documents, Nepmar Jesus Escalona Enriquez, 47, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and formerly of Venezuela, participated in an illegal scheme to finance purported food imports to Venezuela that was facilitated by bribery and false pretenses. Escalona and his co-conspirators carried out the scheme, in part, by knowingly submitting fraudulent applications to the Venezuelan currency regulation authority, also known as CADIVI, to deceive Banesco Bank, the Central Bank of Venezuela, and Venezuelan customs authorities into releasing U.S. dollars to Escalona and his co-conspirators outside of Venezuela. The fraudulent applications were submitted to purportedly finance food imports into Venezuela, but in reality were an artifice to enrich the conspirators. This conduct resulted in the transfer of nearly $1.7 million in U.S. dollars from Banesco Bank into an account controlled by the conspirators.

Escalona further admitted that, in at least one instance, the co-conspirators arranged for a series of bribes to be paid to officials in Venezuela to prevent the detection of their fraudulent scheme. Escalona also admitted in another instance to instructing a co-conspirator to wire transfer proceeds of the fraud, as well as funds constituting bribes, to four financial institutions in the United States. The five illicit wire transfers totaled approximately $420,847.

Escalona pleaded guilty on March 4 to one count of money laundering conspiracy.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; and Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Miami Field Division made the announcement.

The DEA's Miami Field Division is investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Emily Cohen and Deputy Chief Joseph Palazzo of the Criminal Division's Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Goldbarg for the Southern District of Florida prosecuted the case.

Topic: Foreign Corruption

Components: Criminal Division

Criminal - Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

USAO - Florida, Southern

Press Release Number: 24-654

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Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson RAdm. Daniel Hagari-May 23, 2024

IDF Press Release

May 23, 2024

23.05.24

IDF

Daniella, Karina, Liri, Agam, and Naama.

It is impossible to stand here tonight without addressing the video that the entire State of Israel and the world have seen.

Moments of terror and helplessness have resurfaced on screen since October 7th. We failed to protect you, your friends, and many soldiers and residents. We are responsible and committed to bringing you back home.

It is impossible not to look into your eyes and feel the burning terror and pain from the unimaginable cruelty of Hamas terrorists. It is also impossible not to be moved by your courage and resilience.

This video is a reminder of the moral duty, the moral imperative, to bring you and the other 123 hostages home as quickly as possible.

Your families decided to release the video and are doing everything they can to bring you back home soon. We will not rest until you return to us; we are fighting and will continue to fight to bring you and all the hostages back home as soon as possible.

I know the video raises difficult and pressing questions, foremost among them: How did this happen? It is our responsibility in the IDF to provide in-depth answers to these questions, first to the families and then to the public through the media.

On October 7th, the IDF failed in its defensive mission. Now, it is our responsibility to investigate thoroughly and correct our mistakes. This responsibility also means ensuring that there will never be another October 7th on any of our borders.

At this moment, three divisions are fighting in Gaza across all parts of the strip. In the northern Gaza Strip, the forces of the 98th Division continue their offensive against Hamas targets both above and below ground based on intelligence. In recent days, IDF special forces eliminated Hussein Fiad, the commander of Hamas's Beit Hanoun Battalion, in underground infrastructure. Fiad was responsible for anti-tank missile attacks against Israeli territory and our forces during the war. He was also responsible for launching mortar shells at communities in the northwestern Negev.

In the Beit Hanoun area, the Netzah Yehuda Battalion has been fighting in recent days, intensifying the effort against Hamas's attempts to operate from the area.

In the central Gaza Strip, the forces of the 99th Division are securing the corridor from which they conduct raids and initiate operations.

In the southern Gaza Strip, the forces of the 162nd Division continue their offensive against additional terrorist targets in Rafah. The forces have reached the Shabura area, from which Hamas terrorists are operating. So far, we have eliminated more than 180 terrorists in Rafah.

We have destroyed rockets and launchers that were ready to be fired at Israeli territory.

We have destroyed, and are also working to locate tunnel shafts and underground routes. The operation on the ground is intense and determined, with difficult battles in complex areas.

Unfortunately, there are also heavy prices to pay. There are casualties and wounded. We embrace the bereaved families in this difficult time and will continue to support them.

In the north, we continue to target Hezbollah terrorists responsible for the terror in southern Lebanon. This morning, an Israeli Air Force aircraft struck and eliminated Muhammad Ali Nasser Faran, who was responsible for Hezbollah's weapons manufacturing and procurement in southern Lebanon. Faran had been involved in recent years in the production of weapons intended for use against Israeli citizens. He joins a list of senior officials and field commanders of the organization that we have eliminated in recent weeks. We will continue to strike against the terrorism that Hezbollah directs at Israeli territory.

In the Central Command, IDF forces, ISA, and Border Police completed a counterterrorism operation in Jenin this morning that lasted over forty hours. During the operation, approximately twenty terrorist infrastructures were destroyed, including an explosive device laboratory and dozens of weapons. This operation adds to dozens of preemptive and offensive operations to thwart terrorism in Judea and Samaria.

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Al-Qassam Brigades: Netanyahu abandoned commanders in captivity

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 23, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Izz al-Din Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, has announced the capture of a senior Israeli military commander who has remained in captivity amid Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's refusal to reach a deal with Hamas to release captives in Gaza.

According to Palestine's Al-Quds news network, Al-Qassam Brigades on Thursday released footage titled "The leader who abandoned his army commanders in captivity."

Al-Qassam said that its fighters had captured the commander of the Southern Brigade in the Gaza Division General Asaf Hamami on October 7, adding that he was injured during that operation.

The Palestinian resistance group warned in its video that time is running out for the release of the captured commander.

Hamas captured around 250 people including Israelis during its unprecedented Al-Aqsa Storm Operation on October 7. The movement released dozens of the captives under a temporary ceasefire deal in late last year, but has said that a number of others have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza.

Public anger boils in Israel over Netanyahu's refusal to reach a permanent ceasefire agreement with Hamas to secure the release of the remaining captives. Israelis have on various occasions held protests demanding their PM step down.

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Zionist army withdraws from Jenin Camp after 2-day military genocide

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 23, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Zionist army withdrew Thursday from the Jenin Refugee Camp in the northern occupied West Bank following a two-day military genocide.

Simultaneously with the withdrawal of the Zionist army from from Jenin Camp, the Al Razi Hospital announced the martyrdom of another young man as a result of being targeted by the bullets of the Zionist soldiers, Al Jazeera reported.

According to Al Jazeera, the number of Palestinian martyrs in Jenin in the northern occupied West Bank, has reached 12 people over last two days.

Zionist soldiers, supported by military vehicles and army drones, attacked the Jenin city two days ago and clashed with the Palestinians.

6125**2050





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Yemen's Houthis using weapons that reach the Mediterranean Sea, US says

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 23, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Yemen's Houthis have weapons that can reach as far as the Mediterranean Sea, a senior US defense official said.

IRNA reported citing Bloomberg on Thursday that the US government is concerned about the Houthis in Yemen having the capability to expand their attacks on shipping from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to the Mediterranean Sea.

An official, who requested anonymity, revealed that the Houthis have access to advanced weaponry and have deployed anti-ship ballistic missiles in an unprecedented manner.

The report also stated that the Houthis have announced their intention to broaden their attacks on ships allied with the Zionist regime to the eastern Mediterranean.

Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine's struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched a devastating war on Gaza on October 7 after the territory's Palestinian Resistance movements carried out a surprise retaliatory attack, dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, against the occupying entity.

Yemeni Armed Forces have said that they won't stop their attacks until unrelenting Israeli ground and aerial offensives in Gaza, which have killed at least 35,562 people and wounded another 79,652 individuals, come to an end.

The United States and Britain in December announced a military coalition to target Yemen in support of the Zionist regime.

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Statement from the Prime Minister's Office

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Press Releases

The 37th Government

23.05.2024

The Prime Minister's Office, today:



The claim that Prime Minister Netanyahu received early warning from IDF Intelligence about a possible attack from Gaza is the opposite of the truth. Not only was there no warning of any kind about a Hamas intention to attack Israel from Gaza, but a completely opposite assessment was provided.

Two references to Hamas in four intelligence documents point out that Hamas did not want to attack Israel from Gaza and that it favored a peaceful arrangement. The first reference, from 19 March 2023, notes that Hamas's strategy is "leaving Gaza on the back burner" and focusing attacks against Israel from other arenas.

The second reference from 31 May 2023 recommended that Israel join the "regional de-escalation trend" and "take a step forward toward a peaceful arrangement with the Gaza Strip and the Hamas sovereign."

All of the security bodies consistently supported these assessments that Hamas was not interested in escalation but in an arrangement with Israel and that Hamas was deterred.

As to the claim raised in the documents about the negative effect on our enemies of a lack of cohesion in Israel, the Prime Minister himself repeatedly warned about this danger when he spoke of those refusing to serve in the military.

For example, on 17 July 2023 the Prime Minister warned that the internal debate "is gnawing away at our deterrence against our enemies who could be tempted to act aggressively against us."

Yet Prime Minister Netanyahu was accurate when he warned Israel's enemies that on the day of reckoning "the internal debate will not impair our determination and strength to strike them whenever necessary."

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Baiba Braze: key topics at the Washington summit will be strengthening of NATO's defence capabilities and support to Ukraine

Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

23.05.2024

On 23 May 2024, the meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braze, and the NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg focused on the priorities of the NATO summit to be held in Washington between 9 and 11 July, the development of NATO's deterrence and defence capabilities, comprehensive support for Ukraine, as well as the need to develop a strategy to rein in Russia.

The Foreign Minister Baiba Braze: "Strengthening the NATO's eastern flank was one of key issues we discussed with the NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine is a gross violation of international law and leaves a significant impact on global security and prosperity, so we expect practical results in terms of NATO deterrence and defence, as well as in boosting the capabilities of the Alliance's defence industry."

At the meeting, the Minister underlined the need to achieve the target of all NATO Member States contributing at least 2% of their GDP to defence so as to ensure a fair and equitable burden sharing among Allies. Latvia and the other Baltic States have already exceeded that target: currently Latvia's contribution to defence goes beyond 3%. The NATO Secretary-General welcomed, as a model for other member states, Latvia's commitment to devote 0.25% of its annual GDP in military support to Ukraine.

"Given that Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine affects Latvia's vital security interests, we are giving all possible support to Ukraine. Providing sufficient support to Ukraine is of critical importance," Baiba Braze underlined.

The Minister also said during the meeting that "Ukraine has the right to also use weapons supplied by the West for strikes at military facilities in the Russian territory from where Russia attacks Ukraine, since that is governed by international law. Ukraine may strike targets not only in the sovereign territory of Ukraine, but also in the areas that Russia attacks it from."

NATO is of critical importance for strengthening of Latvia's security. The officials discussed the implementation of NATO's defence plans and strengthening the Allied presence in the Baltics. In the current geopolitical situation, all NATO members need to reinforce their security in a forward-looking and coordinated manner.

The Minister emphasized that, in the military sector, Latvia is developing its National Armed Forces (on 5 April 2023, the Saeima adopted the State Defence Service Law reinstating the defence service) and is cooperating with NATO Allies in joint military drills and exercises. Latvia also participates in international operations and missions, as well as in the NATO Response Force, which is the main military mechanism of the Alliance to tackle crises.

Baiba Braze pointed out that Latvia is advancing broad military and civilian capabilities in a targeted way, including in areas important for the Alliance as a whole, such as strategic communication, clearance of unexploded ordnance and the preparation of Joint Terminal Attack Controllers.

At the meeting, the officials exchanged views on developments in the Middle East. Baiba Braze briefed the Secretary General on her recent visit to Georgia.

At the NATO Headquarters, the Minister also met with the Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid, and Cyber, David van Weel, and the Assistant Secretary General for Defence Policy and Planning, Angus Lapsley.

The Minister then took part in a meeting of Ambassadors to NATO of the member states on the Alliance's eastern flank, and met with officials from NATO's Public Diplomacy Division.

From 2020 to 2023, Baiba Braze held the post of Assistant Secretary General of NATO for Public Diplomacy.

At the conclusion of her visit, Baiba Braze will also meet with the winners of the "Latvia's 20 Years in NATO" quiz organised by the Foreign Ministry, who won a visit to NATO Headquarters as the prize.

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Russia's representative summoned to explain media reports about legislative amendments planned in Russia, related to state maritime boundaries

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

2024.05.23

On May 22, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania summoned a representative of the Embassy of the Russian Federation to Lithuania and requested a full explanation of media reports about legislative amendments planned in Russia related to state maritime boundaries.

According to media reports and Russia's state legislative website, www.regulation.gov.ru, Russia plans to adjust the geographical coordinates for points at which it calculates its territorial waters. During the meeting, the Russian representative was asked to explain this public information.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recalled and urged Russia to respect and abide by the universally recognised principles and norms of international law, as well as international and bilateral agreements on the inviolability of frontiers, namely the 1991 Treaty on the Foundations of Inter-State Relations, the 1997 Treaty on the State Border between Lithuania and Russia, the 1997 Treaty on the Delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone and the Continental Shelf in the Baltic Sea, the 2005 Agreement on the Delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone and the Continental Shelf Boundaries in the Baltic Sea, and other agreements.

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Secretary General welcomes Latvian Foreign Minister to NATO Headquarters

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

23 May. 2024

Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze at NATO Headquarters on Thursday (23 May 2024) to discuss stepping up support for Ukraine and preparations for the upcoming Washington Summit.

The Secretary General congratulated Latvia on the recent 20th anniversary of the country's accession to NATO. He commended Latvia's pledge to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2027 and thanked Minister Braze for Latvia's significant contributions to the Alliance, including sending troops to NATO operations and missions in Kosovo and Iraq. Latvia also hosts a Canadian-led multinational battlegroup, a base for NATO's Baltic Air Policing Mission, and the NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence.

Mr Stoltenberg further welcomed Latvia's consistent and robust support for Ukraine. Looking ahead to the Washington Summit, the Secretary General said he expects Allied leaders will make progress in securing further long-term support for Ukraine, bolstering NATO's deterrence and defence posture, and deepening cooperation with partners around the world, including in the Indo-Pacific.

Secretary General Stoltenberg and Minister Braze previously worked together at NATO Headquarters, where she served as Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy from 2020 to 2023.

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NATO holds first meeting of Critical Undersea Infrastructure Network

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

23 May. 2024

Leading experts from across the Alliance met at NATO Headquarters on Thursday (23 May 2024) for the first meeting of NATO's new Critical Undersea Infrastructure Network. With rising challenges to undersea infrastructure, the Alliance is putting in place new tools to enhance the security of undersea cables and pipelines and to monitor potential threats.

NATO has warned for years about the security of undersea cables and Allies increased naval patrols near critical subsea infrastructure following recent incidents in the Baltic Sea. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who opened the conference, said Allies must continue to step up. "The increasing dependency of our societies on undersea infrastructure means we need to do more to enhance their security," said Mr Stoltenberg. "NATO is well-placed to take on a greater role given our Allies' unique military capabilities, vast intelligence network, and operational expertise," he said, underlining that Russia is carrying out an intensifying hybrid campaign against Allies.

At the meeting, participants discussed ways to enhance information-sharing and situational awareness, as well as ways to deter and defend against threats to undersea infrastructure. They talked about using innovative technologies to enhance infrastructure security and resilience, including for the growing number of offshore wind farms that underpin the energy transition. The Alliance also continues to promote technological innovation - such as sea drones, new sensors and the use of AI - to better detect suspicious activity.

The one-day meeting follows the decision by NATO Defence Ministers in February 2024 to stand up the Critical Undersea Infrastructure Network. Allies are also establishing a Maritime Centre for the Security of Critical Undersea Infrastructure within NATO's Maritime Command (MARCOM) in Northwood, UK. Thursday's meeting was chaired by David van Weel, Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid and Cyber. Industry representatives, including energy operators, also attended.

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Minister Radosaw Sikorski takes part in London Defence Conference 2024

Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland

23.05.2024

Visiting London today, Poland's top diplomat delivered an address during a Defence Conference hosted by King's College. The event focused on capacity building to tackle global threats. Also, Minister Sikorski met with his British counterpart, David Cameron. The meeting's agenda included cooperation between Poland and the UK, bilateral relations, preparations for the upcoming NATO summit, and support for warring Ukraine.

In his speech, Minister Radosaw Sikorski said that Poland's security policy rests on two complementary pillars: the decisive role of NATO with strong US leadership and the ever stronger European Union.

He emphasised that Ukraine's fighting soldiers buy Europe time to rebuild our own deterrence, while Poland contributes to ensuring security in Europe with its expenditure on defence and military modernisation and by supporting Ukraine.

Minister Sikorski advocated the broadest possible inclusion of the United Kingdom in Europe's security structures and the EU's defence initiatives. He also supported the investments made jointly with the UK to build deterrence capabilities needed to counter disinformation as well as hybrid and cyber threats.

***

Held from 21 to 23 May in partnership with King's College London, the London Defence Conference 2024 was the third iteration of the annual international debate on geopolitics taking place at Bush House. This year's event focused on deterrence. The attending leaders, policymakers, military, academia and industry discussed how to strengthen defence and security in an increasingly dangerous global environment. Attendance at the Conference was by invitation only, enabling an open exchange of opinions.

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Serbia defiant as UN creates Srebrenica genocide memorial day

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 7:16 PM

The United Nations General Assembly has voted in favor of creating an annual memorial day in remembrance of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide despite fierce opposition from the Serbs.

The resolution to designate July 11 as the Srebrenica genocide remembrance day was passed with overwhelming support from the General Assembly on Thursday.

Eighty-four member states voted in favor of the resolution, 19 countries voted against, 68 abstained, while 22 did not vote.

Three of the five UN Security Council permanent members with veto power - the United States, Britain and France - voted in favor of the resolution, while the other two, Russia and China, voted against it.

Except Serbia, all of the other former Yugoslav republics voted for the resolution.

Several European Union member states, including Slovakia, Greece and Cyprus abstained.

On July 11, 1995, Serb forces overran Srebrenica - a UN-protected enclave at the time - separating around 8,000 Muslim men and teenagers from their families and slaughtering them in what was described as a genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Court of Justice. The Srebrenica genocide is considered the worst single atrocity in Europe since World War II.

The resolution passed on Thursday, in addition to establishing the annual Srebrenica genocide memorial day on July 11, condemns "any denial" of the genocide and urges UN member countries to "preserve the established facts."

The resolution is "of the highest importance for spreading the truth," said Denis Becirovic, the Bosnian member of Bosnia and Herzegovina's tripartite presidency.

"Those who led their people into this position (of genocide denial) must accept the truth, so that we can all find peace and move on with our lives," said Kada Hotic, 79-year-old co-director of an association of Srebrenica mothers, who lost her son, husband and two brothers.

However, Russia's UN ambassador, Vasily Nebenzia, was opposed to the UN resolution.

"If the goal of the sponsors was to divide the General Assembly... then they've succeeded brilliantly," he said.

The UN resolution, which was sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, also met fierce opposition and a strong lobbying campaign by the Serb member of Bosnia and Herzegovina's tripartite presidency, Milorad Dodik, and the populist president of neighboring Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic.

The two leaders claimed the UN resolution would brand all Serbs as genocidal, although the draft does not explicitly mention Serbs as culprits.

Dodik, the political leader of Bosnia's Serb territory, reiterated his threat to secede from the Balkan country. He denied that genocide had even taken place in the Bosnian city and said that his administration would not recognize the UN resolution.

"There was no genocide in Srebrenica," Dodik insisted at a press conference in Srebrenica.

The president of Republika Srpska, which comprises about half of Bosnia, said on X, formerly Twitter, "Bosnia and Herzegovina has reached its end, or to be more precise, it was brought to an end by those who swore to it."

"All that remains is for us all to make an effort to be good neighbors and to part in peace," Dodik said on X.

The Serb leader has made similar threats in the past to have the Serb-controlled territories secede from Bosnia and join with neighboring Serbia.

Bosnian Serb wartime political leader Radovan Karadzic and his military commander, Ratko Mladic, were both convicted of genocide in Srebrenica by a special UN war crimes tribunal in The Hague.

In all, the tribunal and courts in the Balkans have sentenced close to 50 Bosnian Serb wartime officials to lengthy prison terms.

Serbs planned to hoist Serbian flags all over Serbia and Bosnia while church bells rang out across Serbia on Thursday in protest.

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May 22: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 3:47 PM

By Press TV Website Staff

Amid Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed at least 35,800 Palestinians so far, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers.

The major operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Wednesday, May 22, are as follows:

Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on May 22:



Targeted an Israeli armored personnel carrier with a tandem shell around the Salah Al-Din Gate southeast of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.



Bombed a gathering of Israeli forces east of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip with a barrage of mortar shells.



Targeted a convoy of Israeli military vehicles on the axis of advance in the Brazilian neighborhood and Salah Al-Din Gate south of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.



Shot dead two Israeli soldiers at point-blank range in the Brazilian neighborhood, southeast of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.



Sniped three Israeli soldiers, including a high-ranking officer, north of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip.



Targeted an Israeli Merkava tank with an Al-Yassin 105 shell in the Brazilian neighborhood, southeast of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.



Al-Quds Brigades' operations on May 22:



Ambushed an Israeli infantry force and detonated bombs around them in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, which had already been planted around that building.



Bombed an Israeli military site on the supply line of the "Netzarim" axis, south of Gaza City, with a barrage of mortar shells.



Targeted a gathering of Israeli forces with a heavy barrage of bullets in the Al-Damj axis in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin.



Downed an Israeli military drone and seized it after it was found carrying out spying missions in the northern Gaza Strip.



Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli forces at point-blank range, using machine guns and explosive devices, across the Al-Damj axis of Jenin camp, occupied West Bank.



In a joint operation with the Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces, launched a rocket barrage at the occupied city of Asqalan and the "Zikim" military base, inflicting heavy damage.



Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades' operations on May 22:



In a joint operation with Al-Quds Brigades, bombed a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their military vehicles behind Sultan Studio in Jabalia camp, occupied West Bank, with a barrage of mortar shells.



Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces' operations on May 22:



Targeted the supply line of Israeli military forces in the "Netzarim" axis south of Gaza City with mortar shells.



Targeted an Israeli military infantry unit fortified in a house on the advance axis in the Al-Jenina neighborhood, east of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, with an RPG shell.



Al-Nasser Salah Al-Din Brigades' operations on May 22:



Detonated a Shuath anti-armor explosive device on an Israeli military vehicle behind the police station in Jabalia camp.



Hezbollah's daily operations on May 22:



Eastern sector:



At around 17:15 local time, the Al-Samaqa site in Lebanon's Kafr Shuba was targeted with a barrage of missiles.



At around 17:25 local time, Al-Baghdadi's site was targeted with a barrage of missiles.



At around 17:25 local time, Israeli soldiers in the Kfar Giladi settlement were targeted with a barrage of missiles.



At around 19:55 local time, Israeli soldiers were targeted with missiles on Al-Tayhat Hill.



At around 20:30 local time, the artillery positions of the new 403rd Battalion, south of Beit Hilal, were targeted with drones.



Western sector:



At around 12:00 local time, the Al-Sadah site was targeted with artillery shells.



At around 16:00 local time, Israeli soldiers in the Avivim settlement were targeted with appropriate weapons.



At around 18:38 local time, the Jal al-Alam site was targeted with artillery shells.

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EU's Borrell: All bloc member states should find 'common position' on Palestinian statehood recognition

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 8:38 AM

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has urged the 27-member bloc to seek a "common EU position" on recognizing the Palestinian state, after Spain and Ireland joined Norway in recognizing the Palestinian statehood.

"Within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, I will relentlessly work with all Member States to promote a common EU position based on a 2-state solution," Borrell said in a post on X on Wednesday.

The move by Spain, Ireland and Norway has already infuriated the Israeli regime that recalled its ambassadors from the Dublin and Oslo.

Israeli authorities have said they would also recall the regime's ambassador from Madrid.

In a significant development, the UN General Assembly earlier this month backed a Palestinian bid to become a full UN member by recognizing it as qualified to join and recommending the UN Security Council "reconsider the matter favorably."

The historic vote by the 193-member UNGA highlights the growing international recognition of Palestine as a state.

Palestine has already been a member of several international organizations, including the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Moreover, it has been a non-member observer state of the UN since 2012.

Last month, the United States, the Israeli regime's biggest ally, vetoed a bid by the Palestinian Authority (PA) for Palestine to be recognized as a full UN member.

The US argues that the United Nations is not the place for hashing out the status, which it says should be the result of an agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.

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Israel kills 62 Palestinians, injures 138 others in Gaza in 24 hours: Medical sources

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 8:20 AM

Israeli forces have launched fresh massacres in separate regions in the blockaded Gaza Strip, killing at least 62 Palestinians in a single day.

According to medical sources, at least 138 others were also injured who were taken to hospital.

They said the figure is the number of Palestinian fatalities and casualties who were rushed to hospitals, adding that hundreds of victims still lie under the rubble and in the streets, while rescue and civil defense teams remain unable to reach them.

Among the fatalities were at least six Palestinians who were killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting a residential house in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza. Six others were also wounded and taken to hospital.

Israeli forces also shot dead a mother and her daughter as they were fleeing Gaza's Sabra neighborhood in the center of the Gaza Strip.

Israel has been waging a devastating war on Gaza since October 7, 2023, which has killed at least 35,709 Palestinians and injured over 79,990 others. The war began following a retaliatory operation by the Palestinian territory's resistance movements.

Over seven months into the Israeli genocidal onslaught against the Gaza Strip, the regime keeps hitting the devastated territory, killing more innocent women and children.

Meanwhile, at least 7,000 people are missing, according to the government media office, many presumed dead under the rubble.

The Israeli aggression has also resulted in the forceful displacement of nearly two million people from all over the Gaza Strip.

The vast majority of the displaced have been forced into the densely crowded southern city of Rafah near the border with Egypt in what has become Palestine's largest mass exodus since the 1948 Nakba.

Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, said on May 18 that around 800,000 people have been "forced to flee" Rafah since the Israeli regime began carrying out ground incursions into the refugee-packed city from various axes.

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Death toll from Israeli assault on Jenin climbs to 12

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 7:30 AM

The death toll from an Israeli assault on the city of Jenin in the northern part of the occupied West Bank has climbed to 12.

The Palestinian health ministry in the city of Ramallah reported the fatalities on Wednesday, the second day of the raid.

The latest victim, 30-year-old Mustafa Ibrahim Musa Jabarin, died at al-Razi Hospital in Jenin a short while ago, the facility's director told the official Palestinian Wafa news agency on Thursday.

Wafa cited Fawaz Hammad, director of al-Razi Hospital, as identifying one of the victims as 18-year-old Sami Amin Ahmad al-Qaisi.

"Meanwhile, 16-year-old Mahmoud Fares Qreini also succumbed to his wounds sustained from Israeli army gunfire," it reported, citing the health ministry.

Four children as well as surgeon Usaeed Jabareen, from the government hospital, were among the victims of the raid that also wounded 25 others, the ministry added.

"The occupation forces continued the deliberate destruction of infrastructure and property, including streets, vegetable stalls, commercial shacks, and vehicles, as they occupied scores of houses and turned them into outposts amid violent confrontations," Wafa said of the assault.

The agency also said Israeli snipers had deployed on the rooftops of houses in the city and begun opening fire at Palestinians, ambulances, medics, and media workers.

The office of the Palestinian Authority's President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the raid, saying in a statement that the Israeli regime was "killing innocent people, doctors, and destroying the infrastructure of Palestinian hospitals, cities, and villages."

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas called the raid a "massacre" and deemed it "conclusive evidence of the criminal mentality that rules the occupying regime and its ideological belief in killing our people."

The Israeli regime has markedly stepped up its aggression across the West Bank since October 7, when it launched a genocidal war against the Gaza Strip.

At least 517 Palestinians have been killed in the occupied territory by Israeli troops or illegal settlers since the onset of the war on Gaza, according to Palestinian officials.

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Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia welcome European trio's decision to recognize State of Palestine

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 7:30 AM

Iraq, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have both issued statements, expressing their support for recent decisions made by three European countries to recognize the State of Palestine.

In separate statements on Thursday, Kuwait and Iraq welcomed the decision of Ireland, Norway, and Spain to formally recognize the state of Palestine.

The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said their moves are a significant initial step in restoring the rights of the Palestinian people, emphasizing that regional stability hinges on the creation of a Palestinian state with al-Quds as its capital.

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the recent decisions as positive measures that will help implementation of international resolutions by the United Nations Security Council and the 2002 so-called Arab Peace Initiative.

Saudi Arabia said Wednesday it welcomed the "positive" decision taken by Norway, Spain, and Ireland to recognize a Palestinian state.

The Saudi kingdom said it appreciated the decision "which confirms the international consensus on the inherent right of the Palestinian people to self-determination," in a foreign ministry statement.

Riyadh also urged countries to take the same stance, "which would contribute to finding a reliable and irreversible path to achieve a just and lasting peace that fulfills the rights of the Palestinian people."

These resolutions aim to empower the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination and establish an independent state along the 1967 borders, with East al-Quds as its capital, the statement added.

The ministry emphasized the importance of all nations following suit to achieve a fair and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue.

Moreover, other Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt, in a statement on Wednesday welcomed the development and urged other countries to follow suit.

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas also described the move as "an important step on the path to establishing our right to our land."

The head of the Arab League called the decision "a courageous step" that puts the three European countries "on the right side of history in this conflict."

Ireland, Norway, and Spain on Wednesday announced they had formally recognized the state of Palestine, adding that the recognition will come into force on May 28.

Reacting to the news on Wednesday, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu immediately recalled ambassadors to Oslo, Dublin and Madrid and issued a "severe demarche" for the three countries' ambassadors in Tel Aviv.

Most of the world already recognize the Palestinian state. In addition to Norway, Ireland, and Spain, nine other European countries recognize the state.

In a significant development, the UN General Assembly earlier this month backed a Palestinian bid to become a full UN member by recognizing it as qualified to join and recommending the UN Security Council "reconsider the matter favorably."

The historic vote by the 193-member UNGA highlights the growing international recognition of Palestine as a state

This comes amid Israel's brutal war on Gaza, which has so far killed at least 35,709 Gazans, most of them women, children, and adolescents. Another 79,990 Palestinians have sustained injuries as well.

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Israel hasn't achieved any 'strategic goals' of war on Gaza: Top official

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 2:54 AM

A ranking Israeli official has admitted that the regime has fallen short of realizing all the "strategic goals" that it has been seeking to achieve through its months-long genocidal war against the Gaza Strip.

The remarks were made by Tzachi Hanegbi, chief of the regime's so-called national security council, on Wednesday, Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network reported, citing Israeli media outlets.

"We did not achieve any of the strategic goals of the war," including nailing "conditions for a prisoner [exchange] deal" and "toppling" the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, he said.

"They say in the [Israeli forces] that this will take a lot of time, not one year, but years," Hanegbi added.

The official, meanwhile, noted that the regime had turned the world against itself with its continuous bombing and blocking of humanitarian aid convoys.

The Israeli regime launched the war on Gaza last October following al-Aqsa Storm, a retaliatory operation by the coastal sliver's resistance movements, during which hundreds were taken captive.

At least 35,709 people, mostly women and children, have been killed in Gaza throughout the brutal military onslaught.

Hanegbi's remarks did not mark the first time, when an Israeli official would admit the regime's failure to nail its objectives that also include bringing about forced exodus of Gaza's entire population to neighboring Egypt.

On Saturday, Ram Ben-Barak, a member of the Israeli parliament who used to serve as deputy director of the regime's Mossad spy agency, described the war as "futile" and stressed that Tel Aviv was on the losing end.

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US Senate unanimously passes bill urging China to resolve Tibet dispute

Revised bill now heads back to the House before going to President Biden.

By Rigdhen Dolma, Tashi Wangchuk, Tenzin Pema for RFA Tibetan 2024.05.23 -- The U.S. Senate on Thursday unanimously passed a bill urging the Chinese government to engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama or Tibetan leaders, without any preconditions, to resolve the China-Tibet dispute.

The bipartisan Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act notes that the dispute between Tibet and China must be resolved in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Charter, by peaceful means and through dialogue.

The Senate version of the bill, which included a few changes from an earlier version passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in February, will require the approval of the House again. After that, it must go to U.S. President Joe Biden, who is likely to sign it into law.

The bill, also known as the Resolve Tibet Act, refutes Beijing's claim that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times, and calls on China to "cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama."

China invaded the independent Himalayan country of Tibet in 1950 and has controlled the territory ever since. The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, fled into exile in India amid a failed 1959 uprising against Chinese rule.

Since then, Beijing has sought to legitimize Chinese rule through the suppression of dissent and policies undermining Tibetan culture and language.

Beijing believes the Dalai Lama wants to split off the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan-populated areas in China's Sichuan, Qinghai, Yunnan, and Gansu provinces from the rest of the country.

However, the Dalai Lama does not advocate for independence but rather a "Middle Way" that accepts Tibet's status as a part of China and urges greater cultural and religious freedoms, including strengthened language rights that are guaranteed for ethnic minorities under China's constitution.

'Direct response'

The bill is a "direct response" to China, "which continues to trample on the fundamental rights of the Tibetan people," said Sen. Jeff Merkley, an Oregon Democrat, and one of the co-authors of the bill.

"We will work to get it to President Biden's desk to help put the people of Tibet in charge of their own future," Merkley said in a statement.

The bill also empowers the U.S. State Department to counter disinformation on Tibet.

Sen. Todd Young, an Indiana Republican, another co-sponsor, said that the United States must "push for negotiations that advance freedoms for the Tibetan people and peaceful resolution to the CCP's conflict with the Dalai Lama," referring to the Chinese Communist Party.

The bill articulates that Tibet includes the Tibetan-populated regions of Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, in addition to the Tibet Autonomous Region, thereby challenging China's claim that Tibet is restricted to that latter region alone.

So far, Beijing has not publicly commented on the bill. The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to RFA's request for comment.

'Resolved through negotiations'

Tencho Gyatso, president of the International Campaign for Tibet, welcomed the passage of the bill, saying it was an indication that "American support of Tibet will never waver" and that Washington will not accept China's false narrative about Tibet.

"I hope Beijing will now see that disputes must be resolved through negotiations instead of its agenda to erase Tibet's unique and ancient civilization," Gyatso said.

Last month, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the democratically elected leader of the Central Tibetan Administration - the Tibetan government-in-exile - told RFA in an interview that he was hopeful of the bill's passage in the Senate before the U.S. elections in November and "optimistic that this bill will soon be enacted into law."

Namgyal Choedup, representative of the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration to North America, told RFA Tibetan that the bill's unanimous passage "sends a clear message that China's systematic oppression and erasure of Tibetan identity is never the answer to resolving the Tibet-China dispute and we are hopeful that this will soon become law."

The House version of the bill was led by Rep. Michael McCaul, a Texas Republican who is chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Jim McGovern, a Democrat from Massachusetts who is also a Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee and a member of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China.

Additional reporting by Palden Gyal for RFA Tibetan. 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 May 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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UN Approves Srebrenica Genocide Resolution, As Some Serbs Remain Defiant

By RFE/RL's Balkan Service May 23, 2024

The UN has approved a resolution to commemorate the 1995 Srebrenica genocide in Bosnia-Herzegovina annually, over strong opposition from Serbs.

The vote on May 23 in the 193-member UN General Assembly was 84-19, with 68 abstentions.

The resolution designates July 11 as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica, thus establishing an annual day of commemoration for the massacre of more than 8,000 local Bosnian Muslim men and boys almost 30 years ago.

The resolution had sparked protests and a lobbying campaign by Serbia's president and the Bosnian Serb leadership to block the adoption of the resolution, which was sponsored by Germany and Rwanda with 32 co-sponsors, including the United States, France, Britain, and Italy.

The nonbinding resolution condemns "without reservation any denial of the Srebrenica genocide as a historical event." It also "condemns without reservation actions that glorify those convicted of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide by international courts, including those responsible for the Srebrenica genocide."

"Our initiative is about honoring the memory of the victims and supporting the survivors who continue to live with the scars of that fateful time," said German Ambassador to the UN Antje Leendertse.

Leendertse had noted earlier that there is an official official UN commemoration of the 1994 Rwanda genocide every year on April 7, and the Srebrenica resolution aims to do the same for Bosnia ahead of the 30th anniversary of the start of the genocide in 2025.

The July 1995 massacre, which was carried out by Bosnian Serb forces, has been ruled an act of genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). So far, more than 50 individuals have been sentenced to some 700 years in prison for their roles in the massacre.

Radovan Karadzic, the first president (1992-1995) of Republika Srpska, one of the two entities that make up Bosnia-Herzegovina, was sentenced to life in prison by the ICTY for the Srebrenica genocide and crimes against humanity. Ratko Mladic, the Bosnian Serbs' military commander, was also sentenced to life by the same court for the part he played in the genocide

'We Are Not A Genocidal Nation'

Ahead of the General Assembly vote, the government of Republika Srpska planned to hold a special session in Srebrenica amid heightened security measures. Ethnic Serbs make up around 80 percent of the population of Republika Srpska.

About a dozen police vans and a police transporter were parked outside Srebrenica's local police station. A billboard leading into the town reads: "We are not a genocidal nation," a slogan that has become popular among Serb nationalists. The same poster featured prominently on a billboard in Belgrade as well.

Srebrenica's local government has welcomed the delegation, which includes Republika Srpska's pro-Russian president, Milorad Dodik, and urged residents to raise the entity's flag "as a sign of opposition" to the UN resolution. Dodik is under U.S. and U.K. sanctions for his alleged obstruction of the Dayton agreement and violating the legitimacy of Bosnia.

Dodik later repeated his threat that Republika Srpska would secede if the resolution was passed. He has repeatedly threatened secession.

Serbia's nationalist president, Aleksandar Vucic, and the Republika Srpska leadership vehemently opposed the adoption of the resolution, saying it brands Serbia as a "genocidal nation."

He also warned that if a day of remembrance for the genocide was created it would "open old wounds and that will create complete political havoc."

Vucic said the resolution should be subjected to a vote in the UN Security Council, not the General Assembly. Resolutions put to a vote in the Security Council can be vetoed by any of its five members.

Addressing the UN General Assembly ahead of the May 23 vote, Vucic asked, "Why is the resolution being adopted if we are talking about individual legal responsibility?"

Leendertse said the resolution was not directed against Serbia. She added that Montenegro's amendments that the crime of genocide is individualized and cannot be attributed to any specific group were included in the resolution to offset concern from Serbia.

Except for Serbia, all of the former Yugoslav republics voted for the resolution, while several EU nations, including Greece, Cyprus, and Slovakia, abstained.

On May 22, Vucic met with Russian UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya in New York, saying afterward on Instagram that he had "asked the friendly Russian Federation to, this time, stand in defense of the pride and dignity of the Serbian people."

In 2015, Russia vetoed the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution on the Srebrenica genocide, which was proposed by the United Kingdom and supported by the United States and European Union countries.

Russia on May 23 rejected the UN General Assembly resolution, with Nebenzya predicting afterward that it would push Bosnia "towards confrontation," according to Russia's state-run TASS news agency.

As expected, China also voted no. Fu Cong, China's ambassador to the UN, said the resolution "does not serve reconciliation within Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also the countries of the region that want peace and stability in the Western Balkans."

The families of victims of the genocide welcomed the result.

Nura Begovic of the Srebrenica Women's Association lost her brother and 18 family members in the Srebrenica genocide.

She and other families of the victims gathered to watch the UN proceedings at the Srebrenica-Potocari Memorial Center, where more than 6,700 of the estimated 8,000 victims have been buried.

Reacting to the vote, Begovic said she was grateful that some satisfaction had been given to survivors but expressed disappointment with Vuvic's speech at the UN General Assembly.

As expected, China also voted no. Fu Cong, China's ambassador to the UN, said the resolution "does not serve reconciliation within Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also the countries of the region that want peace and stability in the Western Balkans."

The families of victims of the genocide welcomed the result.

Nura Begovic of the Srebrenica Women's Association lost her brother and 18 family members in the Srebrenica genocide.

She and other families of the victims gathered to watch the UN proceedings at the Srebrenica-Potocari Memorial Center in Potocari, where more than 6,700 of the estimated 8,000 victims have been buried.

Reacting to the vote, Begovic said she was grateful that some satisfaction had been given to survivors but expressed disappointment with Vucc's speech at the UN General Assembly.

Kurt Bassuener, co-founder and senior associate of the Democratization Policy Council, a Berlin-based think tank, has said that Serbia should pay a price for lobbying against the resolution but doubted the West would take any punitive steps.

"I'm just not sure that there will be any, because the West's policy toward Serbia was very lenient, specifically towards Vucic, and he is taking full advantage of that. If he had expected serious consequences, he might not have done what he is doing," Bassuener told RFE/RL's Balkan Service.

James Ker-Lindsay, a professor at the London School of Economics and an expert on the Western Balkans, said the tragedy of Srebrenica was being politicized. "Everyone is using this policy to score their own political points, instead of acknowledging that this is a truly horrific event that has been classified as genocide," Kerr-Lindsay told RFE/RL.

According to Ker-Lindsay, Serbia needs to do more to tell Western countries, "Look, we accept what happened, and we can show it because that's what we teach our children in school now."

Natasa Kandic of the Belgrade-based Fund for Humanitarian Law argued that Serbia's denial that genocide occurred at Srebrenica has fueled nationalism and extremism in the country.

Kandic said Serbia's opposition to the UN resolution is putting it on the wrong side of history.

"After World War II, nothing this terrible has ever happened. It must be acknowledged, and this memorial day for the victims of genocide is the least that can be done," Kandic told RFE/RL's Balkan Service.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/un-srebrenica-resolution- bosnia-genocide/32960943.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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Georgian PM Says EU Commissioner Threatened Him, Mentioning Shooting Of Slovak Premier

By RFE/RL May 23, 2024

TBILISI -- Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said he was warned by a European commissioner that if his government goes ahead with a controversial "foreign agent" law, he should be "very careful" in light of the recent assassination attempt of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Kobakhidze did not name the EU commission who made what he said was a "threat," but later on May 23 EU Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi said he spoke with the Georgian prime minister by phone about the foreign agents bill and Kobakhidze took his comments out of context in his summary of the call.

According to Kobakhidze, "While listing these measures, [the commissioner] mentioned, 'You've seen what happened to Fico and you should be very careful."

Fico was shot four times while greeting citizens last week in the central Slovakian town of Handlova. He is recuperating, and his condition was described on May 20 as stable.

Varhelyi subsequently issued a statement saying that he had spoken with the prime minister by phone and part of the conversation had been "taken out of context."

He said he told Kobakhidze that adopting the law "could lead to further polarization and to possible uncontrolled situations on the streets of Tbilisi."

"In this regard, the latest tragic event in Slovakia was made as an example and as a reference to where such a high level of polarization can lead in a society even in Europe," the enlargement commissioner said.

"Once again, I regret that one part of my phone call was not just fully taken out of context but was also presented to the public in a way which could give rise to a complete misinterpretation of the originally intended aim of my phone call," he said.

He emphasized that he was still urging the Georgian authorities not to adopt the law and that he continues "to support Georgians working toward a European future."

Over the past few weeks, tens of thousands of Georgians have taken to the streets to protest the "foreign agent" law, amid fears it could be used to restrict civil society and free media. Under the proposed law, media outlets and NGOs that get more than 20 percent of their money from outside the country would have to register as "pursuing the interests of a foreign power."

The United States, the European Union, and rights watchdogs have all condemned the law and criticized the often violent crackdown by the authorities.

In his statement accusing the commissioner of threatening him, the Georgian prime minister said that "several high-ranking foreign politicians are not hesitating to use open blackmail against the Georgian people and their elected government."

In recent weeks, the EU and the United States have linked their relations with Georgia to the passing of the law.

In a May 15 statement, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Varhelyi said that "the adoption of this law negatively impacts Georgia's progress on the EU path."

A bill that expected to be unveiled this week by U.S. lawmakers is aimed at convincing Georgia's government to repeal the contentious law. Under the proposed Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia's Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence (MEGOBARI) Act, the United States would give Georgia more economic aid, lower trade barriers, and grant more access to U.S. visas if the law were to be repealed.

But if the "foreign agent" bill becomes law, the MEGOBARI Act would require the U.S. administration to impose sanctions on Georgian officials responsible for the legislation.

In his statement Kobakhidze said he felt obliged to inform Georgians about the "threat" and said the parallel drawn with the attempted assassination of Fico "reminds us that the Global War Party is an extremely dangerous force willing to do anything to bring chaos to Georgia."

In recent weeks, Georgian Dream leaders have ramped up their populist and conspiratorial rhetoric with increasing mention of the "global war party." Although it is not clear what or whom they are referring to, they have said the mysterious party is responsible for many of the country's ills.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/georgian-prime-minister- kobakhidze-european-commission-varhelyi/32961152.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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New U.S. Legislation Aims To Dissuade Democratic Backsliding In Georgia

By Todd Prince May 23, 2024

WASHINGTON -- U.S. lawmakers are set to unveil a bill this week that seeks to persuade Georgia's government to kill a controversial "foreign agent" law widely viewed as rolling back democratic achievements.

The Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia's Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence (MEGOBARI) Act offers a combination of carrots and sticks to stop the final passage of the Georgian bill that would force nongovernmental organizations and media that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as "foreign agents." The acronym for the bill, MEGOBARI, is also the Georgian word for "friend."

The proposed legislation -- expected to be introduced to Congress by South Carolina Republican Congressman Joe Wilson -- would require the U.S. administration to impose sanctions on Georgian officials responsible for the controversial law as well as individuals involved in human rights violations such as members of the security forces and those who have engaged in large-scale corruption.

Tens of thousands of Georgians, mainly young adults, have taken to the streets over the past few weeks to protest the "foreign agent" law, which experts say is aimed at undermining the opposition ahead of parliamentary elections in October and could be used to clamp down on civil society and media.

The Georgian legislation is similar to a law passed by the Russian government in 2012 that served to tighten the noose around the opposition and has sparked concerns in the United States and European Union. Some Georgian NGOs have said they will not comply with the bill, potentially opening themselves up to police raids and closure.

A bipartisan group of 29 lawmakers in the House of Representatives, the lower house in the U.S. Congress, earlier this month addressed a letter to Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze condemning the "foreign agent" bill and warning its passage would force Washington to review its ties with Tbilisi.

"The situation in Georgia is clear. The government can choose to listen to the voices of the Georgian people or continue down a dark road to Russian-style authoritarianism. We state, in no uncertain terms, that choosing this latter path would cause the United States to fundamentally reassess the nature of our relationship," the lawmakers said in their May 10 letter.

Russian Intelligence Assets

With the Georgian parliament passing the bill in a third and final reading on May 14, the U.S. lawmakers are now making good on their word.

Work on the MEGOBARI Act has been in progress for months as experts on Capitol Hill expected Georgian Dream to pursue its passage a second time after pulling it in 2023 amid protests, a person close to the legislation told RFE/RL. The person asked their name not be used so they could speak freely on the issue.

The bill also requires the U.S. administration to report to Congress on any Russian intelligence assets in the country as well as Chinese influence, including in the security sphere.

The person familiar with the bill said work on those matters, including the sanctions list and details of Russian and Chinese malign influence, are already under way and could be announced quickly were the MEGOBARI Act to pass.

Exposing Russian agents among the Georgian elite, as well as cases of Chinese influence peddling, would serve to undermine Georgian Dream's narrative that it is protecting the sovereignty of the nation with the "foreign agent" bill.

The ruling Georgian Dream party has accused foreign-funded NGOs of instigating protests following elections in 2020 and after the introduction of the "foreign agent" bill in 2023.

The person familiar with the proposed legislation indicated that the United States possesses information that could torpedo the reputation of members of the Georgian elite.

In a statement posted on Facebook on May 21, Georgian Dream accused U.S. lawmakers sponsoring the MEGOBARI Act of seeking to "blackmail" them.

U.S. sanctions bar individuals, as well as the companies they control, from doing business with U.S. persons. More importantly, it bars them and their companies from conducting any financial transactions in U.S. dollars, the world's most widely used currency. The sanctions could sting as Georgia's economy is highly dollarized with a large chunk of outstanding bank loans and deposits denominated in the U.S. currency.

The bill does offer carrots as well, providing the ruling party drops the "foreign agent" law, including fewer barriers to trade, better access to U.S. visas, and economic aid. The United States Agency for International Development already allocates about $70 million annually for Georgia to support education, small businesses, and NGOs among other spheres.

The person familiar said the incentives are also a signal to Tbilisi that the United States wants to rejuvenate the bilateral relationship, which they described as having been on cruise control in recent years, noting the U.S.-Georgia Strategic Partnership Commission hasn't met for some time.

"This is a constructive & well-timed way to lay out for the Georgian people the friendly alternative that awaits if they manage to take back their government," Josh Rudolph, a senior fellow and the head of the German Marshall Fund's Transatlantic Democracy Working Group, said in a tweet.

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the "foreign agent" bill last week but the Georgian Dream-controlled parliament is expected to override her veto when they vote next week.

"The Georgia-U.S. strategic partnership is currently a prisoner of Georgian Dream's party politics," Irakli Sirbiladze, an international relations researcher, told RFE/RL's Georgian Service.

The Georgian ruling party "is ready to give up the country's national interest -- the strengthening of political, defense, economic, and people-to-people ties with the U.S. -- in order to achieve the party's goal," Sirbiladze said.

William Courtney, the former U.S. ambassador to Georgia from 1995-97, agreed that the MEGOBARI Act is unlikely to persuade Georgian Dream from killing the bill.*

"There is no sign that this government is going to be deterred from taking Georgia in a more authoritarian and anti-Western direction," said Courtney, who is now an analyst at the Washington-based Rand Corp think tank.

"It may be too late for diplomacy to make much difference," he said, referring to the act.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Georgian Service

*CORRECTION: A previous version of this story had the wrong dates for Ambassador Courtney's tenure.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/megobari-act-georgia-us- sanctions-georgian-dream/32959477.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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Houthis Expand Attacks on Israeli-Linked Ships Onto Mediterranean Sea

Sputnik News

20240523

DOHA (Sputnik) - Yemen's rebel Ansar Allah movement, also known as the Houthis, has started operations against Israeli-linked vessels in the Mediterranean Sea by attacking a ship earlier this week, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi said on Thursday.

"The number of vessels and ships attacked since last October, including those linked with the Israeli enemy, the US and the UK, has reached 119," al-Houthi said on Yemeni television.

This week, the Houthi forces conducted eight operations using 15 missiles and drones in the Red and Arabian Seas, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, including one attack in the Mediterranean Sea, the rebel leader said.

Houthis vowed in November 2023 to attack any ships associated with Israel until it halts military actions in the Gaza Strip. The attacks prompted the United States to form a multinational coalition, which includes the United Kingdom among others, to protect shipping in the area of the Red Sea, as well as to strike Houthi targets on the ground.

 Sputnik

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Republika Srpska to Propose Bosnia and Herzegovina Division Plan Within 30 Days - President

Sputnik News

20240523

BELGRADE (Sputnik) - Republika Srpska will propose an agreement on a peaceful division of Bosnia and Herzegovina within 30 days, Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik said on Thursday.

"A peace demarcation agreement will be proposed in the next 30 days. Today we begin with a formal decision that a peaceful demarcation is required. Let us first propose to clarify the political powers in connection with the entities [parts of the country], while maintaining the current model of economic functioning and, within a few years, adapting it to the model of peaceful delimitation. The Serbian people can no longer live in such a Bosnia and Herzegovina," Dodik wrote on X.

On Wednesday, Dodik said that the government of Republika Srpska would propose to the Croat-Muslim part of the country the peaceful division of Bosnia and Herzegovina due to the promotion of a draft resolution on events in the Bosnian city of Srebrenica at the UN General Assembly on May 23.

 Sputnik

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US, EU Negotiating Possible Transfer of Control Over Rafah Crossing to EU Mission - Reports

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Biden administration and an EU organization have been negotiating a possible transfer of control over the Rafah border crossing management to an EU mission amid Israel's ground operation in the Gaza Strip city, the Politico online newspaper reported on Thursday, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Egyptian officials were cited as saying that they seek the return of Gazans who previously operated the border crossing. However, Israel has contended that some of the Gazans who had been involved in managing the crossing were affiliated with the Palestinian movement Hamas. Israel insisted that a new group should be established to take over the management of the crossing, as reported by the newspaper.

The United States has suggested involving a neutral third party - the European Union Border Assistance Mission to the Rafah Crossing Point (EUBAM Rafah) - to take control of the border crossing, the report said. EUBAM Rafah has previously operated at the Gaza border, but suspended its work after Hamas took power in the Gaza Strip in 2007, the report also said.

If Israeli officials and the European organization involved in the talks agree to launch the EUBAM mission on the Gaza border crossing with Egypt, it could open within the next few weeks, the report added.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military cabinet has instructed its negotiating team to continue talks with Hamas on the release of hostages, the Jerusalem Post newspaper reported, citing the Israeli prime minister's office.

In the early hours of May 7, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched what it called a counterterrorist operation in the east of Rafah and took control of the Gaza side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. Later that week, Israeli media reported that Israel's military cabinet had approved expanding the ground operation. Israeli authorities say the operation was aimed at eliminating the remaining battalions of Palestinian movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel and breached the border, attacking both civilian neighborhoods and military bases. Nearly 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others were abducted during the attack. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 35,600 people have been killed so far by Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip, local authorities said. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza.

 Sputnik

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At Least 16 People Killed in IDF's Strike on Mosque in Northern Gaza City - Reports

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - At least 16 people have been killed, with 10 of them children, in an air strike on the Fatima al-Zahra Mosque in northern Gaza City by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera reported on Thursday.

In the early hours of May 7, the IDF launched what it called a counterterrorist operation in the east of Rafah and took control of the Gaza side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. Later that week, Israeli media reported that Israel's military cabinet had approved expanding the ground operation. Israeli authorities say the operation was aimed at eliminating the remaining battalions of Palestinian movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel and breached the border, attacking both civilian neighborhoods and military bases. Nearly 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others were abducted during the attack.

Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 35,600 people have been killed so far by Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip, local authorities said. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza.

 Sputnik

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Israel Abandons Major Invasion of Rafah in Favor of Targeted Raids - Report

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Israel has allegedly abandoned its plans for a major invasion of Rafah in the Gaza Strip in favor of targeted incursions after talks with the United States, The Telegraph has reported, citing a senior US official.

The report cited the official as saying on Wednesday that Israel had taken concerns of the US into account, which had for weeks warned Israel against full-scale operation in Rafah.

"It's fair to say, I think, the Israelis have updated their plans. They've incorporated many of the concerns that we have expressed ... This is an ongoing discussion, ongoing conversation. It's been constructive," the official said, referring to a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Jerusalem last week.

Last week, Sullivan traveled to the Middle East and visited Saudi Arabia and Israel, where he met with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Israeli leadership.

Earlier in May, the Pentagon confirmed media reports that the Biden administration halted deliveries of 1800 2000-pound bombs and 1700 500-pound bombs to Israel after the country began its allegedly limited military operation in Rafah while making public its plans to proceed with a major ground operation.

In early May, US President Joe Biden said during an interview with CNN that Washington would not supply weapons to Israel if the Jewish state's military went into Rafah.

In the early hours of May 7, the Israel Defense Forces launched what it called a counterterrorist operation in the east of Rafah and took control of the Gaza side of the border crossing with Egypt. Later that week, Israeli media reported that Israel's military cabinet had approved expanding the ground operation. Israeli authorities say the operation was aimed at eliminating the remaining battalions of Palestinian movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel and breached the border, attacking both civilian neighborhoods and military bases. Nearly 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others were abducted during the attack. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 35,600 people have been killed so far by Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip, local authorities said. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza.

 Sputnik

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Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York

23 May 2024

The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's noon briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General.

** Guest

Good afternoon,

In a short while, I will be joined by the Director of Advocacy and Operations for OCHA, Edem Wosornu.

She will update you on her recent missions to Afghanistan and Pakistan last week, as well as to Sudan earlier this month.

** Security Council

This morning, the Secretary-General of the United Nations addressed the Security Council of the United Nations. He spoke at an open debate on strengthening Africa's role in security and development globally.

Recognizing Africa's crucial role, he said the continent is home to many examples of unity and solidarity in a fractured world, ranging from the focus on ending poverty and hunger, to supporting refugees fleeing across borders and achieving sustainable development.

"Now is the time to unleash Africa's peace power," Mr. Guterres said.

The Secretary-General added that strengthening Africa's voice can only happen if African countries can participate in global governance structures as equals. This must include correcting the lack of permanent African representation on the Security Council.

** Srebrenica

Today, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, welcomed the resolution adopted by the General Assembly to designate 11 July as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.

This resolution is further recognition of the victims and survivors and their pursuit of justice, truth and guarantees of non-recurrence, he said, adding it is also an important step towards promotion of a culture of remembrance and peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in the region.

For her part, Alice Nderitu, the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, also welcomed the resolution, saying it will be instrumental in honouring the victims, ensuring that their sacrifice is never forgotten as well as cementing the legacy of those who worked so tirelessly to bring justice to the victims.

** Occupied Palestinian Territory

Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warns that if aid does not begin to enter Gaza in massive quantities, desperation and hunger will spread even further.

The closure of the Rafah crossing and limited functionality of Kerem Shalom in the south have choked off the flow of life-saving supplies.

The World Food Programme says there are no food distributions taking place in the south, except for some limited stocks that are being provided to community kitchens for hot meals. The World Food Programme hopes to work with partners to see more community kitchens open in areas like Khan Younis, which is hosting people who have fled the escalating hostilities in Rafah. Since the beginning of this month, WFP has worked with more than 70 community kitchens across Gaza to provide some 4.4 million hot meals to the people of Gaza.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization reports that many hospitals lack fuel and medicines due to the continued closure of the Rafah crossing. In a social media post, Dr. Tedros, the head of the World Health Organization, warns that access to health care across Gaza is shrinking. He said that Kamal Adwan Hospital in the north is also no longer functioning.

WHO said another hospital in the north, Al-Awda, was reportedly invaded earlier on Wednesday, after days under siege.

Meanwhile, in the West Bank, OCHA says that 12 Palestinians were killed in the Israeli operation in Jenin, which concluded yesterday. More than [two] dozen others were injured, including one medical worker. Multiple UNRWA [UN Relief and Works Agency] facilities were damaged, and residential shelters and civilian infrastructure were also destroyed.

And you've been asking about fuel supply issue in Gaza, and I can tell you that just over one million litres of fuel have entered the Gaza Strip since the Rafah operation began on 6 May. This means that, on average, we are receiving just 29 per cent of the fuel allocations that we would have received under arrangements in place prior to 6 May, further hindering the functioning of bakeries, hospitals, water wells, and other critical infrastructure.

** Haiti

Also, I have a short update on our activities in Haiti.

You will recall that we mentioned food distributions in Cite Soleil, in the capital Port-au-Prince, in an effort to address alarming reports regarding the food security situation there.

In total, some 93,000 people were reached with over 600 metric tonnes of food in the past two weeks alone.

Since early March, WFP has provided close to 900,000 hot meals  to about 100,000 people in 80 displacement sites in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area.

Our colleagues from the International Organization for Migration  IOM  tell us that, yesterday, they distributed 34,000 litres of water in three sites for displaced people in the capital.

They also continued to provide medical services through a mobile clinic in a Port-au-Prince site.

** South Sudan

Moving to South Sudan: The Head of our peacekeeping mission there, Nicholas Haysom, today attended a meeting in Juba of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission. He grabbed this opportunity to stress the urgent need for the transitional Government to fully implement the Revitalized Peace Agreement in view of the dire economic and humanitarian situation in South Sudan, as well as the reports of anticipated flooding due to the rising waters of the Nile waters.

Mr. Haysom also emphasized the need to meet minimum political and technical preconditions required for a free, fair and credible electoral process, given the marginal progress we've seen in recent months.

He, of course, reiterated our full support for efforts to build the foundations of democracy, peace and stability through the peace agreement.

** Democratic Republic of the Congo

And in nearby Democratic Republic of the Congo, our peacekeeping colleagues there report that they are conducting day and night joint patrols with the Congolese armed forces in several areas in the province of North Kivu. This is done to ensure the protection of civilians and prevent the free movement of armed groups, particularly the Allied Democratic Forces [ADF]. Together with the M23 armed group, the ADF account for most of the security incidents in the province of North Kivu.

The patrols are done in response to alerts received from communities and reports of armed groups or planned attacks by these groups.

** USG Martin Griffiths

Our friend, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Martin Griffiths, has wrapped up a visit to Abu Dhabi, where he met with Emirati officials to discuss humanitarian issues and ways to further strengthen the collaboration between the UAE [United Arab Emirates] and the United Nations.

Meanwhile, in a social media post today, Mr. Griffiths thanked Qatar for its efforts to reunite with their families six children from Ukraine who had been displaced into Russia. He noted that this underscores the strength of Qatar's humanitarian leadership.

** Ukraine

And staying on Ukraine. Today in Ukraine, Denise Brown, whom you know, leads the UN's efforts in Ukraine, condemned the deadly attacks on Kharkiv city, which follow two weeks of attacks on the region.

Homes, businesses, transport and other civilian infrastructure have been destroyed and thousands of civilians, including older people and people with disabilities, have been forced to flee, leaving their entire lives behind.

We, along with our humanitarian partners continue to support evacuated people and those impacted by the strikes.

The humanitarian response also continues across Ukraine. As of the end of April, nearly 500 partners provided assistance to 4.4 million people in Ukraine as part of the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan.

** Senior Personnel Appointment

Senior personnel appointment for you. Our good friend, Mari Yamashita of Japan has been appointed by the Secretary-General as the Deputy Head of Mission of the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA).

Ms. Yamashita succeeds Vivian van der Perre of the Netherlands who was appointed as Deputy Special Representative for Protection and Operations at the Peacekeeping mission in the DRC [Democratic Republic of the Congo].

Ms. Yamashita brings to the position a broad range of experience with the UN based on a career spanning over 30 years working on preventive diplomacy, peacebuilding and external relations both at UN Headquarters and globally. Since 2020, she has been the Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the UN Office in Belgrade. We congratulate her. Much more on the interweb.

**I nternational Days

Two days to mark today. Today is, for Buddhists across the globe, they celebrate Vesak Day, which marks the birth, enlightenment and the passing of the Buddha.

In his message, the Secretary-General recalled his visit last year to Buddha's birthplace in Lumbini, in Nepal. He said that this inspiring visit re-affirmed his conviction that the Buddha's timeless teachings of peace are the pathway to a better world for all.

Also today is the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula. This childbirth injury, resulting from prolonged and obstructed labour, is not just a medical issue but a reflection of a systemic inequalities ingrained within societies. And this year's theme is "Breaking the Cycle: Preventing Fistula Worldwide."

** Questions and Answers

Spokesman : Mr. Schwinghammer.

Question : Thank you so much. Steph. I have a couple of questions and I may start with the military drill that China holds around Taiwan right now. Is there any comment from your side?

Spokesman : Yes. What's the other question in the meantime and will get to you.

Question : The other question in the meantime is that I watched the GA as I think you did as well. And we heard some pretty direct statements towards Germany, Ambassador [Vassily] Nebenzia said, "we are convinced that Germany has no moral authority to even mention the term of genocide to describe anything other than their own atrocious crimes". I don't ask you to comment on Ambassador Nebenzia now about the underlying notion. Does Germany have the moral authority to talk about any other genocide than the Holocaust?

Spokesman : Look, I'm not going to provide colour commentary to what is said by various permanent representatives. I think all Member States have a duty and obligations to uphold the moral dignity that is ingrained in the UN Charter. On China, I can tell you that we're, of course, following the developments in the Taiwan Straits closely. We urge the relevant parties to refrain from acts that could escalate tensions in the region. And as you know, on the issue of China, we are guided by the General Assembly resolution of 1971. Madame.

Question : Thank you. Steph. Following up on your update on the situation with regards to hospitals in Gaza. Earlier today, the hospital officials for Al-Aqsa hospitals had a press conference in which they said they were hours away from running out of fuel. They also... the hospital director in particular named the UN, and he implored the UN to do all it can do to get fuel to them. He also, and I quote, said the UN was procrastinating. How would you like to respond?

Spokesman : It's hard to imagine the kind of pressures that health officials, hospital directors in Gaza and the level of frustration and anger at the situation. So, I'm not going to comment on his characterization. I can only tell you that we are doing everything possible to get fuel to hospitals and bakeries and so on, but there is not enough fuel coming in. So, everyone is having, including ourselves, having to stretch out whatever fuel reserves there are.

Question : Can you give us just any idea? He said a few hours till that particular hospital runs out. Is that the same situation for everyone? Do you have like the...

Spokesman : I don't have that level of granularity here. The thing with fuel is that, I think  speaking for ourselves, right  I can't speak for the hospitals, for ourselves, but when the levels get low, we just stretch it out. So, it's hard to say we run out in X number of days. But I cannot speak for the hospital itself. Ibtisam, then Benny.

Question : Thank you, Steph. I want to go back to the General Assembly and the resolution that was adopted. Human Rights Watch issued a statement and they said in their statement, among others, that the resolution references the Bosnian Serb leaders convinced [sic] by the international tribunal for their role in the genocide, but leaves out any reference to the UN peacekeepers [inaudible] failure to protect thousands of Srebrenica Muslims, men and boys who were summarily executed. Do you have any comments on that issue, specifically the issue of the role of the UN peacekeeper?

Spokesman : The Secretariat doesn't vote, nor does it draft the resolutions. On the issue of the UN conduct and peacekeeping conduct in Srebrenica, I think it has been looked at and studied, notably in the report by Mr. [Lakhdar] Brahimi. And I think the UN, in terms of the Secretariat, has been very clear on its failings in its operations at the time. Benny.

Question : Two questions about two parts of the world, and by the way, is summer over? The first, about your comment on China and Taiwan. You said the resolution of 1971. From what my history, from what I remember, is that's the resolution that changed Taiwan to China, to communist China, right? The Republic of China to the People's Republic of China. Is that what you're referring to? And what does that mean in this context?

Spokesman : Well, it means in terms of our standing on Taiwan as a province of China.

Question : So, as far as the UN concerned, China can take over Taiwan anytime?

Spokesman : That is not at all what I said. What I said is that we urge the relevant parties to refrain from acts, the acts that could escalate tensions in the region.

Question : Okay. Secondly, on another part of the world, Egypt just announced that it will not open the Rafah crossing until Israel leaves the Rafah crossing on the other side. Any comment?

Spokesman : Well, we would like to see Egypt and Israel and any other parties involved come to an agreement so that the crossings are reopened.

Question : Any, any onus on any of the sides here?

Spokesman : I think there's onus on all the sides involved. Madame Beisan.

Question : There was a political report yesterday, I'm not sure if you're aware of it, that the Biden Administration is in talks with the EU, with the EU border assistance mission to actually take control of the Rafah border crossing. Have you seen this?

Spokesman : I have not.

Question : Can you get back to us?

Spokesman : Yes, I have not. And I can tell you that my answer... My sense is, once I have read the report, my answer will be that we are not. We have no comment on whatever discussions may take place, but I'm happy to look at the report nonetheless.

Question : And on hospitals, I mean, Israel today, they had been. There was an operation around the Al-Awda hospital, and they actually cleared the hospital from doctors and there was an operation that had been going on for days, if you have any comments.

Spokesman : Yeah, we mentioned that in my opening. Yeah. That's okay. You, please.

Question : Thank you, Steph. So, I have follow-up question about Mari Yamashita. When will she start to work?

Spokesman : I will ask her, and I will tell you. Dezhi.

Question : Just a quick question. Does anybody in the UN actually attend the funeral of President of Iran?

Spokesman : No, sir. No, we were not. We were not present.

Question : Residential coordinators?

Spokesman : He did not.

Question : Okay.

Spokesman : I will get back to you, Benny, let's go to Michelle and then Abdelhamid.

Question : A follow-up on Rafah. Given that Kerem Shalom is open, and Egypt is saying that Rafah is closed because it's unsafe for humanitarians on the other side, does the UN agree with Egypt's assessment, or would you like to see the crossing opened and you take your chances?

Spokesman : Nowhere is safe, 100 per cent safe for, not only for the civilians in Gaza, but for humanitarian workers in Gaza. The numbers bear that out, tragically. The Kerem Shalom crossing has... some trucks have come through. The challenge on picking up on the Gaza side of the Karem Abu Salem crossing remain in terms of whether it's fighting, whether it's coordination, all of that remains  it's not simple. It's not an either/or. There are a lot of doorways into Gaza, right. Whether by land or by sea, we don't control those doorways, but we want them all to be open. Abdelhamid.

Spokesman : Thank you, Stephane. I don't know if you were asked this question or not, but as you know, the Associated Press issued a detailed report on Wednesday about the alleged accusation of Hamas committing sexual attacks on the hostages. The report says that it was clear that the settler...

Spokesman : Abdelhamid. What is the question, sir?

Question : The question is he admitted he fabricated the allegation. Would the Secretary-General and the senior officials now revise their speeches and take out that sentence about sexual attacks?

Spokesman : No, I don't think we will revise what has been said. What is needed is, and I think Pramila Patten was very clear in her recommendation, is a full and open investigation into what happened. It is clear that horrific things happened on 7th of October. But there needs to be clear investigations. And I think she made recommendations to that effect.

Question : Have you seen the report by Associated Press?

Spokesman : I have seen the report by the Associated Press.

Question : Is she made available to the Secretary-General, this report.

Spokesman : The Secretary-General is well aware of what is in the news. Benno. You're good, Benno. Okay, I will go get our guest and then we'll hear from Monica [Grayley]. Don't move, don't move.

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UN establishes International Day of reflection for Srebrenica genocide

23 May 2024 - The UN General Assembly on Thursday designated 11 July as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica, in which at least 8,372 people were killed, thousands displaced and whole communities destroyed.

Adopting a resolution with the same title, the Assembly also asked the Secretary-General to establish an outreach programme on the Srebrenica genocide in preparation for the 30th anniversary next year.

It further condemned any denial of the Srebrenica genocide as a historical event and called on Member States to preserve the established facts, including through their educational systems, towards preventing denial and distortion, and any occurrence of genocide in the future.

The text, sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, was adopted by a recorded vote of 84 nations in favour, 19 against and 68 abstentions.

The massacre in Srebrenica

The massacre in Srebrenica marked one of the darkest chapters of the war that erupted after the breakup of former Yugoslavia.

In July 1995, the Bosnian Serb army overran Srebrenica, which was previously declared a safe area by the Security Council, and brutally murdered thousands of men and teenagers there, and expelled 20,000 people from the town.

A small and lightly armed unit of Dutch peacekeepers under the UN flag were unable to resist the Bosnian Serb force.

The brutal killings of Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica by the army of Republika Srpska was recognized as an act of genocide by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as well as the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY).

Firmly against denial

Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, welcomed the resolution as "further recognition" of the victims and survivors, and their pursuit of justice, truth and guarantees of non-recurrence.

"The resolution is all the more important given the persistent revisionism, denial of the Srebrenica genocide and hate speech by high-level political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as in neighbouring countries," he said in a statement.

He also underscored the responsibility of political leaders in the region to engage in constructive dialogue to build peaceful societies "where people can live safely and freely, without discrimination or fear of conflict and violence".

Germany: To honour victims

Introducing the draft resolution, Antje Leendertse, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN, said that the initiative was about honouring the victims and supporting survivors, "who continue to live with scars of that fateful time".

The text is modelled on the General Assembly resolution that designated 7 April as the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

"It also underscores the role of international courts in fighting impunity and ensuring accountability for genocide, and contains language against genocide denial and glorification of perpetrators," she added.

She also spoke against "false allegations", stating that the resolution "is not directed against anybody".

"Not against Serbia, a valued member of this Organization. If at all, it is directed against perpetrators of the genocide," Ambassador Leendertse added.

"I therefore invite everybody to judge the text on its merits and to support our call to commemorate and reflect on what happened in Srebrenica almost thirty years ago."

Serbia: A Pandora's box

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic labelled the text "highly politicized" saying it would "open a Pandora's box".

The draft resolution "was hidden" by its authors, he said, adding that it lacked an inclusive process compared with "the resolution for Rwanda", which was prepared in a "very transparent way".

He recalled discussions over the issue at the Security Council in March.

"When we wanted to discuss the bombing of Serbia in 1999, they said to us 'don't look at the past, look at the future - it happened 25 years ago'. Two days after that, we found out that they were preparing this kind of resolution relating to events even four years prior to [1999]," he said.

"When they have some needs - political needs, they can go deep into the past. When someone else is referring to the past, in that case the facts - they don't matter."

With verdicts and convictions already delivered through the judicial process, the resolution would now only deepen divisions and lead to instability, President Vucic added.

"This is not about reconciliation, not about memories, this is something that will just open an old wound and create complete political havoc. Not only in our region, but even here, in this hall", he argued.

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Security Council Calls for Strengthening Africa's Role in Addressing Global Security, Development Challenges, Adopting Presidential Statement ahead of Day-long Debate

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9633rd Meeting (AM & PM)

SC/15706

23 May 2024

The Security Council today unanimously adopted a presidential statement aimed at strengthening the role of African countries in addressing global security and development challenges, as speakers debated the intricate and complex dynamics between peace and development in those States and across their continent.

By the presidential statement (to be issued as S/PRST/2024/2), the Council reiterated its "support for the role of the African Union and sub-regional organizations in promoting peace and security on the continent" and its readiness to consider appropriate support, including to African Union-led peace support operations through the implementation of Council resolution 2719 (2023) on a case-by-case basis.

Through the text, the Council also expressed support for progress in enhancing the role and representation of African States in global governance and decision-making processes. Furthermore, the 15-member organ called on the international community to honour their respective commitments regarding financing for development and support the strengthening of the capabilities of African States to seize the opportunities for a proactive engagement with the wider world and advance African ownership of international peace, security and development efforts.

"Africa is home to many examples of unity and solidarity in a fractured world," said United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, as he opened today's debate, citing the region's focus on supporting refugees fleeing across borders, and achieving sustainable development, such as poverty and hunger eradication and renewable energy transitions.

However, he pointed out, "all of these efforts require peace in Africa and beyond," noting that "too many Africans are caught up in the hell of conflicts, or living with the relentless danger of terrorism and violent extremism in their communities."

"The human cost of these conflicts is heartbreaking, and the cost to development is incalculable," he said, asserting: "Now is the time to unleash Africa's peace power" and strengthen Africa's peace leadership on the continent and the global stage.

The African Union's adequate representation and effective participation in international affairs will be a "public good", said Bankole Adeoye, the bloc's Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security. In that regard, the UN's Security Council must be enlarged to be more inclusive, pro-Africa, democratic, responsive, legitimate, equitable and accountable.

Welcoming the 2023 decision to expand Group of 20 (G20) membership to include the African Union, he said this serves as a "viable model" and boosts realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area as well as the bloc's Agenda 2063 and the UN's 2030 Agenda.

For its part, the Peacebuilding Commission "stands ready to offer its expertise in laying the groundwork for transitions and durable solutions, including through addressing root causes of conflict, and to engage with African countries on their path to stability and prosperity", said its Chair Sergio Franca Danese (Brazil).

In November 2023, the Commission and the African Union Peace and Security Council discussed ways to strengthen their cooperation. It is "essential to ensure that African countries can build a foundation for sustainable peace according to their specific needs and priorities, based on national ownership", he said, adding that the Commission can assist by connecting countries needing financial support with international financial institutions and other potential partners.

Nearly 50 delegations participated in the day-long discussion, with the Council hearing growing calls  loud and clear  for African representation in its permanent and non-permanent membership. Speakers also highlighted the importance of bringing "African solutions to African problems", and the timeliness of today's debate as May 2024 marks 60 years since the African Union's founding and 20 years since the launch of the bloc's Peace and Security Council  the pillar of the African peace and security architecture.

The three African non-permanent members of the Council each called for reforming the 15-member organ to reflect their region's growing importance in global affairs. "Representational legitimacy is a necessary condition for good institutional performance," said the representative of Sierra Leone, underscoring that African countries have little say in the Council's decisions that affect them. The speaker for Algeria also called on the international community to rectify historical injustices by enhancing the representation of Africa within the Council.

The representative of Mozambique, Council President for May and the architect of today's debate, said that when united, African countries "form a powerful, unified bloc that serves the interests of the Global South". Africa should continue to advocate for addressing the structural deficiencies of the multilateral system, particularly at the Council and international financial institutions. However, "visibility should be a means to an end  not a goal in itself," he asserted.

The representatives of France and the United Kingdom joined others in expressing support for enlarging the Council's membership, with the former proposing a membership of about 25 with an enhanced African presence, including in the permanent category. The latter welcomed the African Union's G20 membership as an important step in "ensuring that global governance represents the world of today". He stressed, however, that "we should go further", expressing support for permanent African representation in the Council and a greater role for low-income, vulnerable African States on the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) boards.

Guyana's representative was among those spotlighting the historical legacy of colonialism on the continent. "We see a familiar storyline across several conflicts in Africa where actors with commercial and other interests in several African countries in conflict situations manipulate those conflicts with the sole aim of preserving those interests," she said, urging the Council to take a firm stance against this phenomenon, which can be deemed as "a new form of colonialism".

On that, India's delegate said that sustainable peace and security "is possible only if external forces do not intervene for vested interests", calling for stronger African voices at multilateral organizations so they can argue their own case. This conviction drove her country to successfully campaign for the admission of the African Union into G20 during its 2023 presidency, she added.

"No one knows Africa better than African States," said China's representative, stressing the importance of respecting their leadership in addressing their continent's problems. However, the delegate of Switzerland said the principle of "African solutions to African problems" does not relieve the international community of its responsibilities because solutions often contribute to a global common good, such as combating cross-border factors of instability and creating conditions conducive to growth, sustainable development and integration.

Several speakers highlighted dozens of elections in 2024 in Africa. The representative of South Africa said that despite some incidents of unconstitutional changes of Governments and protracted armed conflicts in some States, "the holding of regular peaceful elections have become a norm rather than an exception". His counterpart from Rwanda said that with 37 per cent of them electing their leaders in 2024, it is vital to "support each other's democratization".

MAINTENANCE OF INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND SECURITY

Briefings

ANTONIO GUTERRES, Secretary-General of the United Nations , acknowledged that "Africa is home to many examples of unity and solidarity in a fractured world," citing the region's focus on ending poverty and hunger, supporting refugees fleeing across borders, and achieving sustainable development. Other examples include the African Union's Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area, the continent's leadership in renewable energy transitions and potential to become a renewable energy powerhouse, and its bold advocacy for reforming the global financial architecture. However, "all of these efforts require peace in Africa and beyond," he stressed, noting that "too many Africans are caught up in the hell of conflicts, or living with the relentless danger of terrorism and violent extremism in their communities".

He said that the Sahel has been rocked by unconstitutional changes of Government. Terrorism and violent extremism are spreading in the Lake Chad Basin, Somalia and elsewhere. Violence is continuing in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Horn of Africa. The humanitarian nightmare is deepening in Sudan. Many African countries are still suffering the impact of the pandemic, higher rates of debt and escalating climate impacts. "The human cost of these conflicts is heartbreaking, and the cost to development is incalculable," he said, asserting: "Now is the time to unleash Africa's peace power" and strengthen Africa's peace leadership on the continent and the global stage.

Partnerships between the United Nations and Africa are based on the principle of African-led solutions to African problems, he said, and expressed full support for the African Union's flagship "Silencing the Guns" initiative. The United Nations is working closely with the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and others to end the scourge of terrorism. The Security Council adopted resolution 2719 (2023) to support African Union-led peace support operations, he said, adding that the two organizations will be developing a joint road map to take forward this important breakthrough. These types of partnerships are central to his "A New Agenda for Peace" policy brief, which connects the dots between development and sustainable peace, the Secretary-General said, pledging: "The African Union and the United Nations will continue working together to defuse conflicts before they escalate, manage them effectively when they occur, and build sustainable peace when they are resolved".

African participation and leadership must be embedded across the global peace and security architecture, he stressed. Following the Second World War, the global governance mechanisms were designed by the most powerful countries at that time, as many African countries were still struggling to throw off the shackles of colonialism. Since then, the world has changed, but African countries continue to be denied a seat at the negotiating table, including at the Security Council. Despite these structural inequalities, African States are stepping up and contributing to peaceful solutions beyond the continent, he said. For example, Kenya is leading the upcoming Multilateral Security Support Mission in Haiti, with other African countries offering to send troops, he added.

"Africa deserves a voice in the global peace and security architecture" and their participation "as equals" must be ensured, he said, including correcting the lack of permanent African representation in the Council and reforming the global financial architecture. September's Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to push forward on all of these issues, he said, urging African Member States to put forward specific proposals aimed at enhancing Africa's representation within all global governance structures. "Peace is the key to unlocking Africa's future," he observed, also stressing: "Peace depends on African leadership".

BANKOLE ADEOYE, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security , said that Africa's vast natural resources, strategic location and youth make it a significant, valued actor in the international system. "Its perspectives provide fresh insights for a changing world," he added. Further, addressing insecurity  particularly terrorism and violent extremism  as well as economic and governance challenges requires multi-dimensional and African-led structured solutions premised on global security. "At the very root of these challenges," he stressed, is the "state of health" of individual African States and the quality of their engagement with the rest of the world. For its part, the African Union is committed to build strong African States that will boost global security and development. Pointing out that African institutions are currently being tested by the combined weight of the impacts of climate change and other socioeconomic implications, he urged several actions to enhance African States' ability to address multiple challenges.

First, he underlined the need to reconfigure the global peace and security architecture. Renewed multilateralism for the sake of global stability is necessary, he stressed, adding: "This is Africa's right, and not just a demand." Additionally, the Security Council must be enlarged to be more inclusive, pro-Africa, democratic, responsive, legitimate, equitable and accountable. Welcoming the 2023 decision to expand Group of 20 (G20) membership to include the African Union, he said this serves as a "viable model" and boosts realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area as well as the bloc's Agenda 2063 and the UN's 2030 Agenda. He also called for adequate, flexible, predictable and sustainable financing for African peace operations, which "will serve to promote peace enforcement in the era where peacekeeping is shrinking". The African Union stands ready to address the continent's complex, intractable conflicts, and the implementation of resolution 2719 (2023) will be a litmus test for such financing.

He went on to state that the African Union works to promote effective preventive diplomacy, mediation and dialogue. Underlining the importance of such measures, he spotlighted the Praetoria Peace Agreement on Tigray and expressed hope that Sudan will "change course through better mediation for a cessation of hostilities to be effected". Reforming the global financial architecture is another imperative, as the existing one is "plagued with inequities, gaps and inefficiencies" that must be addressed, he said. Bridging technology gaps and developing innovative financing mechanisms are crucial, and he therefore called for creating a new architecture for global economic governance; addressing the cost of sovereign borrowing; improving access to Special Drawing Rights (SDR); and linking private-sector profitability with sustainable development. He also urged the mainstreaming of women in governance, youth inclusion and child protection.

"It is also fundamental to promote a delicate balance between the classic first-generation political and civil rights and the economic, social and cultural rights premised on the right to peace and, most importantly, the right to development," he said. This will ensure an Africa where good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice for all and the rule of law thrive. Underscoring that the African Union's adequate representation and effective participation in international affairs will be a "public good", he also underlined the need to ensure complementarity between the bloc and the UN through regional economic mechanisms and commissions. "Silencing the Guns remains on our agenda," he said, also stressing the importance of "zero-tolerance" for all unconstitutional changes of Government as well as continued support for the nexus between peace, security and development.

SERGIO FRANCA DANESE (Brazil), Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission , underscored its commitment to partnering with Africa for sustained peace, by identifying and addressing context-specific root causes of conflict. Investment in sustainable development is crucial to long-term social cohesion and stability, and must take place alongside other peacebuilding initiatives. "There can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development," he stressed, noting Africa's young population makes this even more important and provides a "wealth of opportunities" for inclusive growth. He commended Africa's progress to institutionalize regional policies through the African Union and subregional organizations. During their sixth Informal Annual Joint Consultative Meeting in November 2023, the African Union Peace and Security Council and the Peacebuilding Commission discussed ways to strengthen their cooperation to support national priorities and the activities of regional organizations, and African Union peacebuilding efforts such as implementation of the African Union Policy on Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development. Such support "is essential to ensure that African countries can build a foundation for sustainable peace according to their specific needs and priorities, based on national ownership", he said.

While underlining that African problems must be solved with African solutions, he said partnerships are fundamental and financial institutions should expand cooperation in peacebuilding and sustaining peace, including in conflict prevention. The Commission hopes to assist by connecting countries needing financial support with international financial institutions and other potential partners. It hopes the implementation of General Assembly resolution 78/257 (2023) will expand the possibilities for supporting initiatives in Africa through the Peacebuilding Fund. He called for coherence and complementarity between peacebuilding, peacekeeping missions and counter-terrorism operations, taking into account the proposals in A New Agenda for Peace. The implementation of Council resolution 2719 (2023) to support African Union-led peace operations with UN-assessed contributions is an opportunity for closer cooperation between the UN and the African Union.

The Commission "stands ready to offer its expertise in laying the groundwork for transitions and durable solutions, including through addressing root causes of conflict, and to engage with African countries on their path to stability and prosperity", he underscored. He also affirmed the importance of reinforced implementation of the Joint UN-African Union Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security, the African Union-UN framework for the implementation of Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The representative of Mozambique , Council President for May, speaking in his national capacity, observed that Africa is a mosaic of peoples, trends, challenges, opportunities and narratives that are deeply connected to internal and global events. However, there are also enormous challenges Africa must face, including a high poverty rate, the rapid Africanization of terrorism, political instability and illiteracy. To overcome these challenges, it is critical for Africa to emerge from its present status and become an important player on the global stage. "When united, our 55 countries form a powerful, unified bloc that serves the interests of the Global South," he stated, adding that Africa shall continue to advocate for addressing the structural deficiencies of the multilateral system, particularly the reform of the Security Council and international financial institutions. Further, he underlined the importance of representation at multilateral fora, stressing that "visibility should be a means to an end  not a goal in itself".

The representative of Sierra Leone , citing World Bank statistics, noted that his continent remains the least economically competitive region in the world, with one third of its population characterized as living in extreme poverty below the $2.15-a-day threshold. Calling for adequate support for the African Union Agenda 2063 as well as the Silencing the Guns initiative, he also underscored the need to address the structural imbalance in the Council. "Representational legitimacy is a necessary condition for good institutional performance, particularly when the objects of an institution's decisions have little say in the decision-making process itself," he stressed. Also welcoming the African Union's membership in the Group of Twenty, he said this will afford the continent an opportunity to shape the policies that impact its economic development.

The representative of Guyana said that "peace and security issues cannot be divorced from development issues," urging the Council to take a holistic approach to peace and security matters in Africa by incorporating a development dimension. Stressing the importance of addressing the historical injustice against Africa in its exclusion from this Council's permanent membership, she said that correcting this wrong is critical to the full involvement of Africa in the global peace and security regime. She warned of interference by external actors. "We see a familiar storyline across several conflicts in Africa where actors with commercial and other interests in several African countries in conflict situations manipulate those conflicts with the sole aim of preserving those interests," she said, calling on the Council to take a firm stance against this phenomenon, which can be deemed as "a new form of colonialism".

The representative of Malta , noting Africa's young population and diverse culture and geography, said: "Africa is the continent of the future." She expressed concern, however, over instances of terrorism, violent extremism and unconstitutional changes of Government  particularly in West Africa  which steal civilians' futures and "squander entire generations". She then spotlighted the "remarkable work" carried out by several UN peace-support missions and the African Union. In South Sudan, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has strengthened accountability for intercommunal, sexual and gender-based violence. In Somalia, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) has supported alternative dispute-resolution mechanisms, while the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has supported national forces in combating al-Shabaab. Additionally, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) has strengthened complementarity and coordination between formal and informal justice actors in that country. Against that backdrop, she spotlighted resolution 2719 (2023) and the Council's support for regional security configurations.

The representative of Switzerland underlined Africa's potential to help with global challenges, forged in its experience in conflict prevention. She called for peace, sustainable development and human rights to be viewed "through a common lens". Effective conflict prevention addresses all factors of instability including weak economic prospects, marginalization, weak State presence, resource competition and climate change, and their interaction. For national prevention strategies, countries can draw on: Africa's rich tradition of conflict resolution and mediation, often rooted locally; how African States have dealt with past crimes, for example, in Sierra Leone and South Africa, to ensure they are not repeated and deliver justice; and, its close regional coordination in instruments such as Agenda 2063. Finding African-led solutions does not mean the international community should absolve itself of responsibility, as solutions are for the common good. She expressed support for the African Union's work and its improved cooperation with the UN.

The representative of Slovenia observed that  with its strategic position, wealth in natural and human resources, and growing young population  African States are essential partners in the collective efforts to shape a more peaceful and prosperous world for all. Noting that strong national institutions are vital to maintaining resilient societies and contributing to regional stability, she stressed the need to promote transparency, accountability, inclusion, rule of law and respect for human rights. In this regard, she spotlighted Liberia's recent establishment of the war crimes tribunal to provide justice for victims of civil wars, Kenya's local peace committee programme preventing inter-tribal violence and Mozambique's Maputo Accord promoting reconciliation and reintegration. Also, empowering women and youth to participate fully in political and other decision-making processes is crucial to unlocking resilient societies. While the African States have become indispensable partners in the collective pursuit of global peace, security and sustainable development, "there is so much more that can be achieved," she said.

The representative of Algeria , stressing the need to adequately finance conflict-prevention in Africa, said governance remains "a key tool of structural prevention" as well as a remedy to crises. Reinforcing the cooperation between the UN and regional organizations in the maintenance of international peace and security is crucial, he said, calling for the implementation of Council resolution 2719 (2023), which provides an opportunity to foster the African Union's ownership of peace initiatives. Highlighting his country's contributions, he noted that Algeria has, since 2020, earmarked a $1 billion to the Algerian Agency of International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development. It also cancelled a total amount of debt equalling $900 million for 14 African countries. Calling on the international community to rectify historical injustices, he said it is time to improve the representation of Africa within the Council.

The representative of France said that his country is supporting Africa in addressing peace and security challenges bilaterally and through the European Union, including securing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and providing training in Mozambique. He expressed support for expanding both the permanent and non-permanent membership of the Council, to around 25 in total with an enhanced African presence, including in the permanent category. This dynamic should also extend to economic governance. His country organized the Summit for a New Global Financial Compact in June 2023. The resulting Paris Pact for People and Planet, now supported by 54 States, sets out several cardinal principles so that "no country has to choose between the fight against poverty and the fight for the planet". France has helped to mobilize $16 billion for the Great Green Wall in the Sahel to combat the effects of climate change, desertification, food insecurity and poverty from Senegal to Djibouti. "The effective implementation of the Paris Agreement is a necessity and great urgency, including for peace and security," he emphasized.

The representative of Japan , noting that the majority of Council discussions are dedicated to Africa, voiced appreciation for the "timely agenda-setting and insights rooted in direct on-the-ground knowledge and experience by our A3 [Algeria, Mozambique and Sierra Leone] colleagues". But there is room to further enhance the continent's representation, he said, and as the Chair of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions, his country is committed to improving the Council's working methods, including by welcoming stronger African voices. An expanded Council in both permanent and non-permanent categories is absolutely necessary, he said, also underscoring that the 15-member organ must utilize the Peacebuilding Commission as an advisory body to share experiences from Africa. Further, the African Union and the network of subregional organizations and regional economic communities form a pivotal infrastructure for African peace and security, he said.

The representative of the United Kingdom , noting the importance of resolution 2719 (2023), said that the UN and African Union must work together to implement the mechanisms necessary "to make it work in practice". Also noting the need to "amplify African voices" in international forums, he said that the African Union's G20 membership was an important step in "ensuring that global governance represents the world of today". He stressed, however, that "we should go further", expressing support for permanent African representation in the Council, reformation of the international financial system and a greater role for low-income, vulnerable African States on the boards of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF). Further, greater collaboration between the UN and African Union can help address challenges such as the conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as unconstitutional changes of Government. These weaken the role of States and undermine development, he said, underlining the need to collectively manage transnational threats.

The representative of the Russian Federation underlined the need to increase the predictability, reliability and flexibility of resources for African peacekeeping. He recalled African States' unequal representation in the international security and financial apparatus, which hampers addressing global problems. Underscoring the link between peace and development, he said international financial institutions and the UN development system "are failing to fulfil their objectives", principally due to the UN development system's main donors being interested only in a self-serving agenda, as is felt most keenly in Africa. He gave the example of African States' debt servicing eclipsing their spending on health and education. Meanwhile, the growth of financial assistance to Ukraine outpaces global developmental assistance. He regretted that "African Governments are expected to ensure peace, security and stability in a context of economic insecurity". His country continues to develop African countries' capacity to address problems in security and sociocultural spheres.

The representative of the United States , noting that African Governments, institutions and people play a crucial role in advancing global priorities, supported the adoption of resolution 2719 (2023), which promotes cooperation and responsibility sharing between the African Union and the UN to address peace and security challenges. He also supported the adoption of the General Assembly resolution in December, which approved $50 million for the Peacebuilding Fund. Noting the importance of conflict prevention throughout Africa, he welcomed the UN efforts aimed at fully inclusive conflict prevention and mediation. Sounding alarm over the tragedy unfolding in Sudan  "one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world"  he urged the relevant parties to allow for the delivery of humanitarian assistance. "Development, respect for human rights and the rule of law are equally interconnected in promoting security," he observed, adding that "democratic governance based on human rights is essential to creating opportunities for all".

The representative of Ecuador , noting that building peace is a long-term process, said dialogue, human rights and rule of law are crucial ingredients for that. Urging developed countries to meet the commitment of earmarking 0.7 per cent of their gross domestic product (GDP) to official development assistance (ODA), he said "Africa is an essential protagonist" in international fora. The African Union's participation in the Group of Twenty exemplifies this, he said, also recalling that he presided over the Council meeting in which resolution 2719 (2023) was approved. That text marks a success in the collaboration between the United Nations and the African Union, he said, stressing the importance of financing Africa Union-led peace operations.

The representative of China said that "no one knows Africa better than African States," stressing the importance of respecting their leadership in addressing their continent's problems. He rejected interference in their internal affairs, including applying pressure and sanctions. A cold war mentality will only trigger new confrontations and turmoil in Africa. "Africa should be a big stage for international cooperation, not an arena for great power competition," he emphasized. The international community should focus on helping African States fully display their strengths, turning their human and resource endowment into real productivity. Due to the impact of their colonial history, they have been at the low end of their global industrial supply and value chains. Electric vehicles, solar products and new energy batteries are rare products. China is willing to share green technologies, products and experiences with Africa. Beijing seeks to push China-Africa cooperation to a new level through an upcoming summit on their partnership.

The representative of the Republic of Korea , noting that his country will soon host the first-ever "Korea-Africa Summit", recalled that this relationship began in the 1950s when several African nations supported his own during the Korean War. The Summit will forge new strategic cooperation based on "the unique aspects of our partnership and our similar historical experiences", he said. Seoul also will support African Union peace and security initiatives, and he noted his country's contribution of $5 million in 2024 along with its provision of funding and armoured personnel carriers to ATMIS. "Taking stock of our own development trajectory," he said that development is closely linked with peace, security and democracy. For this reason, Seoul has increased its ODA by over 40 per cent in 2024. He added that, similar to how education was "foundational" for his country's development, investment in that sector will be the "spearhead to empower Africa and its dynamic younger generation".

PAISAN RUPANICHKIJ, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand , said the African Union has been a leading example of regionalism, strengthening multilateralism and aligning with international law. But he noted the need for Africa's greater representation in international bodies and financial institutions, along with non-African developing countries, to reinforce multilateralism. He highlighted that most of the Council's agenda involves situations in developing countries. He said initiatives such as Agenda 2063 and the Silencing the Guns in Africa are exemplary in showing how peace, security and stability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are mutually reinforcing. His country's cooperation with African countries has been people-centred. He called for a stronger global-regional interface with closer UN and regional organizations' coordination, for more effective multilateralism in security and development. He expressed his country's support for the enhancement of the UN-African Union partnership and international partnerships to aid African subregional organizations.

The representative of Egypt highlighted the UN's role in Africa, noting his country's contribution to various UN peacekeeping missions there. Nevertheless, he voiced concern about recent negative trends in relations between some host countries and UN missions, urging for an open, transparent and comprehensive dialogue between the Organization and host countries, considering their priorities. He also emphasized the importance of providing adequate financial resources and policy guidance to peacekeeping missions and updating their mandates in line with developments on the ground and in consultations with troop- and police-contributing countries. Peacebuilding in Africa  "an important pillar that is quite often overlooked"  is an effective tool to ensure that countries do not plunge back into conflict. "This is an investment in the future of peace in Africa, one that yields high return and that should be enhanced and strengthened at all levels," he observed.

The representative of Austria , noting that Africa is poised for a rapid increase in the working-age population, said it is essential to address the historical injustice suffered by the continent when it comes to representation. Commending the African Union's inclusion in the G20, he stressed the need for a more networked system of global governance. The Summit of the Future presents an opportunity to promote an action-oriented approach to networked multilateralism, he said, highlighting the proposal put forward by his country and others for an annual conference of the Secretary-General with heads of regional organizations. Stressing the importance of tackling climate change on the continent, he said his country  which is powered by 80 per cent renewable energy  has shared its expertise with African countries to help unleash their potential in solar, hydro, wind and geothermal energy.

The representative of Ukraine expressed concern over grave human rights violations in the Great Lakes Region committed by armed groups. "Regrettably, certain States are contributing to instability on the African continent," she said, noting that the Russian private-military formations have been implicated in those violations and various illicit activities in some regions. Her country has always been committed to maintaining peace and stability in Africa. As of today, despite the Russian Federation's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, its massive attacks against her country's infrastructure and its use of starvation as a weapon, Ukraine remains a top exporter of agricultural products and guarantor of world food security. It has provided grain to Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan and other countries, and has significantly expanded its diplomatic presence in Africa in the last few months, she added.

The representative of Portugal , aligning herself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union, said: "Africa can count on Portugal as a firm ally and advocate." She added that she does not bring recommendations to strengthen African States' role in addressing global challenges  "as that is for the African States to define". She did, however, urge the reassessment of the impact of IMF charges, as well as increased African representation on the boards of international financial organizations. Africa's vision for development is "founded on solid pillars", she said, which includes reducing dependence on raw materials through industrial development, value-added processing and regional integration. This must be supported, namely through the African Continental Free Trade Area, regional economic organizations and the development of local and regional value chains. She also called on the international community to support African partners in combating disinformation and hate speech  "particularly in a year when nearly two dozen African democracies go to the polls".

The representative of Italy said international support for Africa should address structural challenges and conflicts' root causes and not just tackle ongoing emergencies. He encouraged the exchange of best practices for youth's active participation in decision-making processes as it enhances the legitimacy of peace and security initiatives. Combating violent extremism, strengthening regional cooperation and institution-building are key to counter evolving terrorist threats which prevent building a prosperous continent. Civilian-focused counter-terrorism efforts should take place bilaterally and by contributing to the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism's African regional offices' activities. He noted Italy's involvement in the Ad Hoc Working Group on conflict prevention and resolution in Africa. Council resolution 2719 (2023) is a milestone for UN-African Union cooperation in responding to the evolving nature of conflicts in Africa, he said, noting that while some decision-making and financing questions remain to implement it, "solutions are within our reach". He encouraged other Member States to contribute to African peace operations and support a more structured African participation in multilateral institutions.

The representative of South Africa said that many African States continue to make significant progress in maintaining peace and security and preventing violent conflicts. In recent years  despite some incidents of unconstitutional changes of Governments and protracted armed conflicts in some States  "the holding of regular peaceful elections have become a norm rather than an exception". Also, the participation of women and youth in peace processes has gained traction, and the fundamental role of civil society is recognized. There is an accelerated focus on addressing socioeconomic development issues, he said, adding that "Africa is more peaceful than it was two decades ago." Notwithstanding these positive developments, the continent is grappling with the effects of overlapping global crises that include geopolitical tensions, including the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, high food and energy prices and rising public debt, resulting in unrest and prolonged conflicts. To effectively deal with global security and development challenges, he stressed that both external and internal root causes and drivers of instability must be addressed.

The representative of Turkiye , stressing that tackling root causes is crucial to finding long-lasting solutions, commended the strengthened partnership between the United Nations and the African Union. Also voicing support for greater representation for African countries in the international governance system, he added that his country is a strategic partner to the African Union, and this holistic and inclusive partnership takes many forms, from humanitarian assistance to capacity-building projects. Turkiye hosts and supports the United Nations Technology Bank, he noted, also highlighting the Black Sea Initiative, which has been instrumental in addressing food insecurity in the continent.

The representative of Rwanda said that by consistently and continuously demonstrating regional ownership and cooperation in addressing complex security issues, Africa can serve as a model for other regions seeking to establish effective security architectures. He also stressed the need to support the electoral process in African States, as 37 per cent of them will elect their leaders in 2024 and it is vital to "support each other's democratization". The peacekeeping mandate was birthed to resolve inter-State conflicts, as opposed to intra-State conflicts, civil wars and genocides. Africa knows the intricacies of successful global security and development efforts. As the world has evolved, so have security challenges, placing Africa "at a vantage point in being greatly equipped to use the historical lessons and collective wisdom of our vastly diverse nations in order to build peace for all", he said.

The representative of Brazil affirmed that "African countries know their challenges better than anyone else"  and the international community must be ready, on their demand, to forge partnerships to enhance their ability to solve their problems. Calling for allotting two permanent seats to Africa in an expanded Security Council, he cited one positive recent development: the admission of the African Union as a new member of the G20. As G20 President for 2024, Brazil has been working hard to ease the bloc's integration into all the group's work streams; and as Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission in 2024, his country is particularly pleased that the organizational committee has approved its proposal for granting a standing invitation to the African Union to participate in its meetings. He stressed that a global economic, financial and trade architecture is needed for developing countries to fulfil their potential, and for attaining the goals of the African Union Agenda 2063.

HEDDA SAMSON, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union , cited multi-level partnerships between the bloc and Africa, including at the national level in Mozambique, involving strategies in the fields of education, digitalization, climate resilience and nutrition and preparations for a European Union Electoral Observation Mission to accompany the upcoming elections. Noting that "Africa has a young and vibrant population" full of potential for rapid and economic growth, she recalled that in 2075, one in three working age youth population will be African. "These generations need to be fully empowered and included, to be able to realize their best potential," she said. Turning more broadly to the Sahel, she recalled that the bloc supports the Great Green Wall with over 700 million. In close partnership with 18 partner countries, it is strengthening sustainable land management in a region that is disproportionately facing the consequences of climate change. This African initiative will restore 100 million hectares of degraded land and create 10 million jobs, she said.

The bloc also works closely with the African Union to promote State-building and good governance, including implementing the African Governance Architecture, and providing financial support to its transitional justice policy, she said. In the Sahel, it has supported the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Regional Stabilization Facility for the Lake Chad Basin, which helps Governments and communities implement long-term peacebuilding, recovery and development programmes. "African countries can play a crucial role in global peace efforts," she said, citing their leading role in the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti. The European Union has been the African Union's number one partner on peace and security issues in terms of financial and technical support, creating the Africa Peace Facility in 2003, and allocating over 1 billion to African partners under the European Peace Facility since 2021. Warning that funding for peacebuilding has collapsed, she voiced support for the Secretary-General's call to develop national prevention strategies on a voluntary basis and with UN support.

The representative of Denmark , also speaking for Finland , Iceland , Norway and Sweden , recalled that her country hosted delegations from 32 States and the African Union earlier in May to discuss ways to form lasting and enduring partnerships. During those discussions, ministers spoke of the changing global peace-and-security landscape, "where new and interlocking threats have emerged and where conflict dynamics are growing ever more complex". Ministers also agreed that "much can be done to remedy those challenges", she reported, urging a reflection on the future of UN peace operations. Troop- and police-contributing countries  including many African States, as well as host nations  "have a particularly important role in these deliberations", she said. Also underlining the importance of peacebuilding for achieving sustainable peace and development, she called for strengthening the Peacebuilding Commission's advisory, convening and bridging roles.

"There is an undeniable need for the United Nations to step up its cooperation with regional organizations," she went on to say  particularly the African Union. Commending the leadership shown by that bloc and its subregional organizations as "first responders" in the region, she urged that this continue with UN support. The recent adoption of resolution 2719 (2023) is a welcome step in this direction; now, it must be implemented swiftly and effectively. She also called for reform of both the international financial architecture and the Council, underscoring: "African States have a far more important role to play than is currently possible due to the underrepresentation we observe today." Redressing this historical injustice must therefore be a priority, and she expressed hope that today's debate will highlight African States' increasing importance in today's global political landscape.

The representative of Spain commended the African Union's entry into the G20, as a means to address global challenges and as an acknowledgement of Africa's importance. He underscored that a more representative Council would make it more effective and said that there should be reforms making it more democratic, with periodic elections renewing its legitimacy, accountability and the principle of rotation. He called for an increase in the number of elected members to the Council and proposed a significant increase in the number of seats for African States. He encouraged the African Union and the UN to finalize the joint planning guidelines and the further implementation of Council resolution 2719 (2023), to strengthen regional and subregional organization's roles. Predictable financing would benefit and increase the operational effectiveness of peacekeeping on the continent, he added.

The representative of Morocco accented that strengthening the role of the African State is multidimensional, including by exercising its political sovereignty over its entire territory, protecting its borders and strengthening its democratic process towards the rule of law. He further cited the importance of taking ownership of regulating the market economy and promoting public investment in infrastructure and human capital. The African State cannot fulfil its role without the commitment and collaboration of other international actors to provide support and support via international cooperation, reducing the burden of their external debt, and facilitating access to financing and international markets, capacity-building programmes and technology transfer. He recalled that Morocco is the second major African investor within the continent, with financial mobilization encouraging the creation of wealth and jobs in several African countries. At the same time, Morocco is among the leading international contributors to maintaining peace on the continent and has been since the 1960s.

The representative of Germany , associating herself with the European Union, said that bloc's experience proves that mutual trust and close regional cooperation are key to peaceful societies. African countries chose the path of regional cooperation by creating the African Union, she said, also commending subregional initiatives such as the Regional Stabilization Facility for the Lake Chad region, which could serve as a model elsewhere. Welcoming the African Climate Security Risk Assessment developed by the African Union and partners, she noted the steps taken towards a common African position on climate, peace and security. The European Union has been helping to strengthen regional cooperation in this field through projects such as the UN Climate Security Mechanism in the Sahel, she said, also highlighting the strong African ownership for that initiative.

The representative of Ghana said that most African States are being weakened due to the uneven distribution of the benefits of an international system designed to deliver more for the few and powerful. Despite a combined value exceeding $3.5 trillion, Africa's economy works for the richer world rather than its more than 1.4 billion people. "The international governance system for financing, trade, development as well as peace and security needs a reset to reflect the world of today and not that of 1945," he said. In that regard, the financial architecture needs urgent reform to ensure that international financial institutions benefit all, especially countries most in need. Trade and development arrangements must be undertaken on much fairer terms and in the spirit of solidarity, he insisted.

The representative of Viet Nam stressed that Africa  as a victim of numerous historical injustices  has faced a disproportionate share of security and development challenges. The continent is underrepresented in the current global governance and at the UN, he observed, calling for a comprehensive reform of the Security Council. "African States must occupy more seats at the enlarged Council [...] so that [their] voice can be duly heard, particularly on issues related to their own region," he said. Noting that Africa contributes significantly to peacekeeping operations, supplying over 70 per cent of the UN peacekeepers while hosting five peacekeeping missions and eight special political missions, he spotlighted recent issues with numerous UN peacekeeping missions concerning host Governments and communities. "More needs to be done," he stated, urging for a comprehensive review of the existing missions in Africa while respecting the host countries' sovereignty.

The representative of Qatar said that his country is proud of its strategic partnerships with several African States, also spotlighting Doha's mediation efforts in Sudan, Chad and Somalia, as well in the context of "the border conflict between Djibouti and Eritrea". In the humanitarian and development sphere, he also recalled that Qatar announced a pledge of $12 million in humanitarian aid in September 2023 to combat famine and food insecurity in Africa. Further, Qatar has financed the second phase of a project to "build resilient societies" in Somalia in cooperation with the United Kingdom and United States. He also reported that his country maintains investment partnerships with several African countries in sectors including renewable energy, agriculture and infrastructure. Further, Qatar sent a delegation to a high-level meeting on strengthening regional cooperation to combat the threat of terrorism in Africa, held in Abuja in April.

The representative of Kenya said that, despite myriad obstacles, the African State is "contributing in significant ways" to address global security and development challenges. The Council can strengthen the African State's role by listening to the perspectives of the continent's three plus representatives more and integrating their regional insights into its decision-making processes; embracing Africa's peace and security architecture as a fundamental tool for peace and security; and, demonstrating this by implementing resolution 2719 (2023) and scaling up UN funding for African Union-led peace operations to 100 per cent in the near future. The international community should increase cooperation between the Peacebuilding Commission and the African Union Peace and Security Council, provide equitable representation of Africa in global peace, security and financial architecture, invest in Africa's sustainable development, support its digital transformation and address the debt burden. Developed countries must honour their climate commitments, especially finance, he noted.

The representative of the Czech Republic noted that "many African States are justifiably proud of their economic growth, technological advancement and improved living conditions of their inhabitants". With the world's youngest population and a wealth of resources and diversity, the continent is poised to become an important driver of global peace and prosperity. However, Africa faces distinct pressures, with militant and terrorist groups challenging the sovereignty of States and tragically claiming many innocent lives. Further, the continent's rich natural resources including oil, minerals and agricultural land draw the attention of malicious powers that seek to cynically exploit governance gaps for their own gain. "Countering these attempts alone is not easy," he stated, voicing support for all efforts to strengthen State institutions and reduce vulnerabilities to foreign interference  while recognizing efforts of many by African countries to effectively take on harmful external influences by prioritizing governance reforms and improving transparency, accountability and the rule of law.

The representative of Nigeria said that to address Africa's multidimensional challenges, it is imperative to take concrete and transformative actions, including "an overhaul of the Council's architecture". She underlined the need to identify quick-yielding revenue sources for economic recovery, noting that extractable resources can generate financial returns and employment. Any resource management approach should address poverty and promote the sustainability of resources for present and future generations. "The continued exploitation of resources has been a significant contributing factor to conflicts in the region," she said, noting its environmental impact. Concurrently, "a sudden rise in illegal exploitation and plundering of resources in Africa" is a source of funding for terrorist and criminal activities. Against this backdrop, she emphasized that the Council should focus on this issue as one of the root causes of conflicts, including criminalizing illegal exploitation as a crime against humanity.

The representative of Poland , recognizing the centrality of economic relations, voiced support for African countries regarding their equal treatment in trade relations with the rest of the world. Citing Polish initiatives such as the GO Africa programme, he recalled that the country works to draw international attention to critical issues like global food security, resilience-building, and reducing inequalities, particularly in education and health care. This commitment is further reflected by Poland's membership in the Peacebuilding Commission. "Rather than reinventing the wheel and creating new frameworks to promote stability and strengthen African States, we should focus on bolstering the existing mechanisms and more effectively support African institutions and organizations," he stated. He called for reinvigorated support to the African Union and regional economic communities within such frameworks as Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area, Silencing the Guns and many others.

The representative of Australia , stressing the importance of regionally led approaches, said Africa's regional and subregional actors are best placed to understand and respond to its challenges. His country's faith in regional approaches is rooted in its own experience in the Pacific, where it has aligned its regional priorities with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Highlighting the African Union's Agenda 2063 as the best blueprint for the continent's collective prosperity and security, he expressed support for financing African Union-led peace operations. It is crucial to address Africa's multidimensional security challenges and find durable solutions to climate-induced displacement, he said, adding: "We need to listen to and learn from the experiences of African States."

The representative of Pakistan , noting Africa's fertile lands, plentiful resources and industrious people, recalled its colonization, enslavement and division into "European fiefdoms". Following its independence in 1947, Pakistan actively participated in the liberation of African nations, and he noted that "many of our African brothers were enabled to travel on Pakistani passports to promote their national freedom struggles". Stressing that "Africa is on the rise", he urged "new" peace operations with broader and more robust mandates, adequate resources and advanced equipment. Pakistan, for its part, will contribute actively to these objectives, including as a Council member if it is elected on 6 June. "Eons ago, the South Asian subcontinent was sundered from Africa by a colossal tectonic event," he added; yet, Pakistan now works to embrace African States through trade, investment and security cooperation. As connectivity grows, he observed, Pakistan will bridge Asia and Africa to bring them closer together  "a befitting reversion to our pre-historic geography".

The representative of Liberia said it is glaringly evident that African nations are often on the frontline of emerging security threats. "Strengthening these States is not merely an act of assistance but a strategic imperative for global stability," she added. She underscored that a paucity of sustainable and predictable funding holds back African States' contribution to global peace and security. Such funding would enable consistent training, proper equipment, and the development of robust institutions. It would empower regional organizations to be proactive rather than only reactive and allow them to engage in preventive diplomacy and mediation. It would help to not only maintain peace and security but also build resilient communities. She hailed the Council's adoption of resolution 2719 (2023). She called for reform of global governance and financial institutions, a commitment to a just climate change agenda, and Africa's social and economic inclusion.

The representative of the Netherlands , aligning himself with the European Union, said that protracted armed conflicts, military coups and the effects of climate change are taking their toll on the continent's stability. They are contributing to increased poverty, displacement and fragility in many parts of the world, disproportionately affecting Africa. Voicing concern about the devastating conflict in Sudan and developments in other regions  including the Sahel and Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo  he said an integrated approach, combining economic, development and security cooperation, is needed to address the root causes of conflict and instability. Also, investments and partnerships are essential to effectively tackling existing multifaceted challenges, he observed, noting that increased investments in the African countryside could be essential for stabilization and conflict prevention. They can contribute to improved food production, poverty reduction, resilience against climate change and growing domestic markets.

The representative of Latvia emphasized the major contribution of African countries to peacekeeping  calling for missions to ensure they have clear goals and exit strategies and are trusted by the local population. She noted that missions and peacekeepers are increasingly targeted by misinformation campaigns, used as a weapon of influence to fuel conflicts. "To ensure peace, we must address climate change as a security imperative," she emphasized, as intensified droughts and floods and limited access to vital resources act as a threat multiplier. Further, women and youth  "particularly in Africa, a young continent"  are crucial to building overall resilience. In addition, financing for development and international financial architecture reform are essential to address development and mobilize the private sector. To that end, Latvia is expanding its partnerships with African countries by offering technology and women empowerment-related projects in South Africa, Cameroon, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The representative of Belgium , commending the role of African "Blue Helmets" worldwide, highlighted the potential offered by Council resolution 2719 (2023). Drawing attention to his country's support for capacity-building in Africa, he noted the trainings offered by the Belgian Egmont Institute for International Relations to civil servants from 20 African countries. Further, African student visas represent one third of student visas to Belgium, he said, expressing support for African States' policies aimed at claiming back fiscal space or embarking on a green transition. Belgium and Mozambique have entered an innovative $2.6 million debt-for-climate swap to relieve Mozambique's debt burden while investing in its climate resilience. Also outlining security partnerships, he said "we only intervene when we are asked to." This year Belgium and Benin are marking 25 years of a military partnership, he said.

The representative of Saudi Arabia , emphasizing that "African affairs are of great interest" to his country, detailed national policy to establish peace and security, promote development and eradicate poverty in Africa. It works to establish "relations that serve African countries", he said, noting that Saudi Arabia  for 50 years  has provided development support worth more than $45 billion "in many vital sectors" that has benefited 46 African States. Detailing additional financial support to Africa, including through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, he said that his country will continue to promote investment, development and trade. He also recalled that Saudi Arabia was among the first to support the African Union's accession to the G20 and that  as its President in 2020  his country worked on debt service suspension and debt restructuring for many African countries. Further, he detailed his country's mediation support for Sudan, hosting parties to the conflict in Jeddah "in many rounds".

The representative of India reaffirmed that its partnership with Africa remains a top priority and the need for "basic human development and economic opportunities" to achieve peace. Development financing is key and can be facilitated by genuine partnerships. She called for a larger African role, including permanent African membership in the Council, the denial of which is a blot on its credibility. "Those who are responsible [...] by perpetuating a historical injustice must be called out," she said. The Council must give the spreading of terrorist groups in Africa priority attention. She added that sustainable peace and security "is possible only if external forces do not intervene for vested interests", which calls for a stronger African role at multilateral organizations so they can argue their own case. This conviction drove India to successfully campaign for admitting the African Union into the G20 in 2023.

The observer for the Holy See said that the African continent is beset by many challenges, including conflicts, terrorism, the impact of climate change, and the ongoing struggle for economic development and poverty eradication. On strengthening the role of African States, he underscored the need to acknowledge their significant progress in enhancing collaboration to address some of the continent's most pressing challenges. In this context, he spotlighted the Silencing the Guns initiative for 2030, which could be instrumental in halting the spread of violence through the illicit trade of arms by terrorist and armed groups. Further, he warned against "the imperious ambition of certain countries to exploit the natural resources and peoples of the African continent", adding that "a new wave of colonialism is currently being witnessed, which does not respect the inherent human dignity of all, undermines the common good and threatens efforts to eradicate poverty".

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Time to Unleash Africa's Peace Power, Embed Continent's Leadership into Global Governance, Development Architecture Secretary-General Urges Security Council

Press Release

Secretary-General

Statements and Messages

SG/SM/22238

23 May 2024

Following are UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' remarks to the United Nations Security Council debate "Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Strengthening the Role of the African State in Addressing Global Security and Development Challenges", in New York today:

I thank Mozambique for bringing us together to discuss Africa's critical role in maintaining peace and security. Today's discussion is about peace in Africa itself  but also strengthening Africa's role in peace and development globally.

Africa is an important voice for the global good. The continent is home to many examples of unity and solidarity in a fractured world. We see this unity in Africa's focus on ending poverty and hunger, supporting refugees fleeing across borders and achieving sustainable development. And we see it in the continent's efforts to work together to build a modern, diverse, innovative and powerful continental economy to benefit all Africans.

From the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area. To African countries leading the way on renewable energy systems like solar and wind  a continent with the potential to become a renewable energy super-power. To Africa's bold calls for reforming the global financial architecture so it better serves and represents the countries who need it most. All of these efforts require peace in Africa and beyond.

Too many Africans are caught up in the hell of conflicts or living with the relentless danger of terrorism and violent extremism in their communities. From the countries of the Sahel rocked by unconstitutional changes of government, uncertain political transitions and a growing terrorist threat. To the spread of terrorism and violent extremism in the Lake Chad Basin, Somalia and elsewhere. To the continued violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Horn of Africa. And to the deepening humanitarian nightmare in Sudan, now entering its second year, with increased hostilities in El Fasher opening an alarming new chapter in this conflict.

My Personal Envoy, Mr. Ramtane Lamamra, is working tirelessly on mediation efforts with all parties. We need a concerted global push for a ceasefire, followed by a comprehensive peace process to end the bloodshed.

The death, hunger, disease and displacement fuelled by these conflicts are playing out against a bleak backdrop. Many African countries are still suffering the impact of the pandemic, including higher rates of debt, limiting their capacity to fight poverty and hunger.

Meanwhile, climate impacts are escalating, including droughts and ferocious flooding  as we saw recently in east Africa. Rising geopolitical tensions are also having an impact on the continent. In some countries, we are seeing grave human rights violations and abuses, an epidemic of gender-based and sexual violence, a flouting of international law and a global climate of impunity.

The human cost of these conflicts is breathtaking. And the cost to development is incalculable. Now is the time to unleash Africa's peace power. We need to strengthen Africa's peace leadership  on the continent itself and on the global stage.

First  we need peace in Africa itself. Our partnership with Africa is based on the clear perception that we must work with the African Union based on the principle of African-led solutions for African problems. The United Nations fully supports Africa's pursuit of peace through the African Union's flagship "Silencing the Guns" initiative.

We stand shoulder to shoulder with our African partners to help ensure security, stability and respect for human rights and the rule of law across the continent  in line with my New Vision for the Rule of Law. We're working closely with the African Union to strengthen the foundations of stable, peaceful societies  including democratic processes and institutions that people can trust.

We're working closely with the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and others to end the scourge of terrorism  including support for prevention, legal assistance, investigations, prosecutions, reintegration and rehabilitation and human rights protection. We fully support the establishment of the African Humanitarian Agency to help people caught within complex emergencies. And we're supporting key processes to build peace in places where it is in short supply.

I am pleased that this Council agreed to our long-standing call to support African Union-led peace support operations  including peace enforcement and counter-terrorism operations  with mandates from the Council and through assessed contributions covering a large chunk of the expenditure.

Resolution 2719 (2023) is a critical milestone. Our two organizations will be developing a joint road map to take forward this important breakthrough. Partnerships like this are central to the New Agenda for Peace. The Agenda connects the dots between investing in development, building strong governance structures and justice systems that people can trust, and creating sustainable peace.

The African Union and the United Nations will continue working together to defuse conflicts before they escalate, manage them effectively when they occur and build sustainable peace when they are resolved.

Second  we need to embed African participation and leadership across the global peace and security architecture. Following the Second World War, the mechanisms of global governance  including this Council  were designed by the most powerful countries at that time. Many African countries were still in the process of throwing off the shackles of colonialism. Since then, the world has changed  but global institutions have not. Today, African countries continue to be denied a seat at the negotiating table  including at this very Council.

The impacts of these structural inequalities are plain to see. African States suffer disproportionately from the effects of conflicts, an unjust global financial system and the climate crisis. At the same time, African countries are stepping up and contributing to peaceful solutions beyond the continent.

For example, I commend Kenya for leading the upcoming Multilateral Security Support mission in Haiti  and other African countries for offering to send troops.

Africa deserves a voice in the global peace and security architecture. But strengthening Africa's voice can only happen if African countries can participate in global governance structures as equals. This must include correcting the lack of permanent African representation at this Council. And it must include reforming the global financial architecture  especially its handling of debt  so African countries have the support they need to climb the development ladder.

September's Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to push forward on all of these issues. I have invited all Heads of State to attend. I count on African Member States to seize the moment and put forward specific proposals aimed at enhancing Africa's representation within all global governance structures.

We must be clear-eyed about the deep challenges ahead. But the people of Africa have always risen to the challenges of the day. Peace is the key to unlocking Africa's future  for Africans themselves, and for strengthening the continent's voice and influence in building peace around the world. Peace depends on African leadership.

I look forward to working with this Council, and with the Governments, institutions and people of Africa, in this important work.



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SECNAV Del Toro Announces Name of a Future Constellation-class frigate - FFG-66

US Navy

New York City

Speech by Carlos Del Toro

Presented on 23 May 2024

Date Published 23 May 2024

Good morning, everyone! It an absolute honor to be with you here at Gracie Mansion to celebrate the 36th New York City Fleet Week.

Commissioner Hendon, thank you for that kind introduction, and for the work that you and your team does every day on behalf of the Veterans who call New York City home.

We are excited to have three members from the Broadway cast of "Hamilton" here with us today: Jared Dixon who plays Aaron Burr, Jennie Harney-Fleming who plays Angelica Schuyler, and Tamar Greene who plays George Washington. We are so grateful to have you here to celebrate this special occasion.

Mayor Adams, we owe you and every New Yorker a debt of gratitude for opening up your doors and offering a warm welcome to our Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen.

On behalf of the Department of the Navy, I would like to present you with this gift as a token of our appreciation for your enduring support to our personnel and their families.

New York City is indeed a Navy town, but also much more, both as the global financial capital of the world and the heart of our Nation's economy.

It is a beacon of prosperity, as well as an example of America's resiliency and unbreakable spirit.

It is where my family settled after fleeing Cuba as refugees of the Castro regime.

Every time I visit my hometown of New York City, I am reminded of why I chose to dedicate my life to serving our great nation over the last 40 years, both in and out of uniformthe opportunity to succeed, to realize your dreams, to be a part of something bigger than yourself.

To our uniformed personnel here today, from Admiral Caudle and Lieutenant General Cavanaugh all the way down to our most junior enlisted Sailor, Marine, and Coast Guardsmanthank you.

Thank you for volunteering your time, your careers, your lives, in service to our great Nation.

By doing so, you are all part of a legacy that stretches back almost 250 years to our War for Independence from Great Britain.

Those Sailors, Marines and Soldiers of the Continental Navy and Army fought battles both ashore and at sea, including right here in New York.

Their leaders, from Commodore John Barry to General George Washington, came from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

They were professional soldiers, mariners, lawyers, farmers, and doctors, with many of them being immigrants or children of immigrants, all yearning for a new life filled with opportunities that were not available to them in the "Old World" of Europe where they came from.

In some cases, like General Washington's aide-de-camp the Marquis de Lafayette, they were Europeans who felt a kinship to the colonists, a yearning for the same freedoms and democratic ideals these men and women were willing to lay down their lives for.

And since we are here in New York City, I would be remiss if I did not mention Alexander Hamilton, a Caribbean immigrant and one of our Nation's better known "Founding Fathers."

Alexander Hamilton, like Lafayette, served on General Washington's personal staff during the Revolutionary War, ultimately commanding troops during the Battle of Yorktown.

After the war, he established the United States Treasury Department and with it, the forerunner to our Nation's oldest seagoing servicethe United States Coast Guard.

However, what many individuals don't know is that Secretary Hamilton was a fierce advocate for our Nation to establish a Navy.

As those newly-independent colonists contemplated what institutions their government needed, Hamilton wrote to the people of the State of New York in Federalist Paper #11 of the necessity to create a Navy.

To quote Hamiltonthe man, not the Broadway musical"There can be no doubt, that the continuance of the Union, under an efficient government, would put it in our power, at a period not very distant, to create a navy."

He recognized that a strong Navy was necessary to protect our fledgling nation's commercial maritime enterprises, which in turn would allow a Navy and our Nation to flourish as it expanded its role to ensure maritime commerce flows unencumbered.

Secretary Hamilton understood that we, as a maritime nation, needed to establish ourselves from the outset as a maritime power, both commercial and naval.

And so today, here in Hamilton's home city and state, we are proud to announce that we will be naming our Navy's future Constellation-class frigateFFG-66the USS Hamilton in honor of his contributions and advocacy for our nation's maritime services.

USS Hamilton, once constructed, will sail around the world, representing the freedom and ideals its namesake spent his life advocating for.

And we are excited to sail alongside the US Coast Guard's USCGC Hamilton (WMSL-753), one of our Nation's national security cutters, as our sea services work together alongside our international allies and partners to confront the common challenges we all face throughout the maritime domain.

Alexander Hamilton lived a life dedicated to something greater than himselfideals he was willing to sacrifice his life for on the fields of battle across our Nation.

Let his life's work and commitment to democratic principles invigorate those of us here this morning as a poignant reminder that we carry on his legacy of service and of sacrifice.

May God bless our Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and their families around the world, and may God continue to grant this city and our Nation with fair winds and following seas. Thank you.

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SECNAV Del Toro Names Future Guided Missile Frigate USS Hamilton (FFG 66)

US Navy - Press Release

23 May 2024

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that a future Constellation-class Guided Missile Frigate (FFG 66) will be named USS Hamilton. Secretary Del Toro made the announcement, May 23, while joining New York Mayor Eric Adams at Gracie Mansion for the New York City Mayor's Fleet Week Welcome Breakfast.

The future USS Hamilton honors Secretary of the Treasury and Founder of the U. S. Coast Guard Alexander Hamilton and the crews of previous Navy vessels to bear the name.

"Secretary Hamilton was a fierce advocate for our Nation to establish a Navy. He understood that we, as a maritime nation, needed to establish ourselves from the outset as a maritime power, both commercial and naval," said Secretary Del Toro. "USS Hamilton, once constructed, will sail around the world, representing the freedom and ideals its namesake spent his life advocating for."

During the Revolutionary War, Hamilton served for four years as an aide-de-camp for General George Washington and later, in 1781, commanded a light infantry battalion at the battle of Yorktown. He subsequently contributed significantly to the adoption of the United States Constitution by serving as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, drafting a large portion of the Federalist Papers, and providing pivotal support for New York's adoption of the proposed document.

As President Washington's first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton was the architect of policies that greatly strengthened the country's credit and economy. He consistently advocated for a strong Navy, and encouraged the development of dock yards, naval arsenals, and shore facilities. To counter the large number of smugglers who were undercutting the new nation's finances by evading import taxes, Secretary Hamilton in 1790 spurred the establishment of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Serviceforerunner of today's United States Coast Guard. Ships previously named in honor of Alexander Hamilton have served in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and Revenue Cutter Service.

USS Hamilton, the fifth of the new Constellation-class frigates, was appropriated in 2024. The other ships in the class are USS Constellation (FFG 62), USS Congress (FFG 63), USS Chesapeake (FFG 64), and USS Lafayette (FFG 65), which Secretary Del Toro named last year in France.

The Constellation-class guided-missile frigate represents the Navy's next generation small surface combatant. This ship class will be an agile, multi-mission warship, capable of operations in both blue-water and littoral environments, providing increased combat-credible forward presence that provides a military advantage at sea.

The Constellation-class will have multi-mission capability to conduct air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare, and information operations.

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Biden dismisses International Criminal Court's call for arrests of Israeli, Hamas officials

By VOA News May 23, 2024

U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday dismissed calls by the International Criminal Court for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three top Hamas officials in Gaza, for alleged war crimes in connection with the ongoing seven-month conflict.

Biden, at a White House news conference, was asked whether the U.S. had any evidence that Israel was using starvation of Palestinians as a tool of war to fight Hamas militants, as the court alleged this week.

Biden did not answer directly but said, "We don't recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC the way it's being exercised, and it's that simple."

Referring to the conduct of the war, Biden, a long-time supporter of Israel, said, "We don't think there's an equivalence between what Israel did and what Hamas did."

The Israel-Hamas war started with the shock October 7 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of about 250 hostages. Israel, in its subsequent counteroffensive in Gaza, has killed more than 35,700 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which includes civilians and combatants in its count, but says most of the dead are women and children.

CIA director Bill Burns is expected to travel to Europe soon to meet with the head of Israel's Mossad and Qatar's prime minister in an attempt to revive talks to release the hostages still held in Gaza and establish a cease-fire in the territory, according to media reports Thursday.

Negotiations for a cease-fire have languished for months. The ICJ announced Thursday it will deliver a decision Friday on an urgent request by South Africa to order a cease-fire in Gaza.

South Africa asked last week for the emergency measure in response to Israel's offensive in Rafah in southern Gaza at the border with Egypt, where the United Nations had warned of a potential humanitarian catastrophe.

South Africa urged the top U.N. court to demand Israel fully withdraw from Gaza and allow U.N. officials, humanitarian organizations and journalists unimpeded access to the narrow territory along the Mediterranean Sea coastline.

The request is part of a larger case South Africa brought before the court accusing Israel of genocide.

Israel rejected the accusations, calling the South African case an "obscene exploitation" of the Genocide Convention.

Israeli officials say their campaign in Gaza is not aimed at civilians but at the Hamas militant group that attacked Israel in October.

On the battlefront, Israeli forces ended a two-day raid Thursday in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin that Palestinian health officials say killed at least 12 people and wounded 25 others.

Israel began the operation Tuesday and said it was battling militants in the area.

The Israel Defense Forces also reported carrying out ground fighting and airstrikes Thursday in Rafah, in central Gaza and in the Jabaliya area of northern Gaza.

Israeli forces killed at least 60 Palestinians in aerial and ground attacks across Gaza on Thursday, according to health officials and Hamas media, and also fought in close combat with Hamas-led militants in Rafah.

The main U.N. agency in Gaza estimated on Monday that more than 800,000 people had fled Rafah since Israel's offensive on the city began earlier this month.

But Suze van Meegan, the emergency response leader for the Norwegian Refugee Council in Gaza, said many civilians were still stuck in the southern Gazan city.

"The city of Rafah is now comprised of three entirely different worlds: the east is an archetypal war zone, the middle is a ghost town, and the west is a congested mass of people living in deplorable conditions," she said in a statement.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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UN designates annual day to commemorate Srebrenica genocide

By Margaret Besheer May 23, 2024

The United Nations General Assembly voted Thursday to designate July 11 annually as an international day of reflection and commemoration of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide of more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim boys and men by Bosnian Serb forces. Serbia and Bosnian Serbs strongly opposed its adoption.

"Perpetrated amidst the Bosnian War, this act of genocide led to the tragic death of the victims and to unimaginable suffering for survivors and their families," German Ambassador Antje Leendertse said, introducing the resolution. "Our initiative is about honoring the memory of the victims and supporting the survivors who continue to live with the scars of that fateful time."

Germany and Rwanda co-led the negotiations on the resolution's text over more than a month.

The resolution received 84 votes in favor, 19 against and 68 abstentions. Only a simple majority of those countries present and voting "yes" or "no" was needed for the motion to pass. It was co-sponsored by more than 40 countries, including the western Balkan nations of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, North Macedonia and Slovenia, along with the United States.

Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Denis Becirovic welcomed the resolution, saying it is an important step for the promotion of peace and reconciliation in the region and beyond.

"Truth and justice won today in the U.N. General Assembly," he told VOA after the vote.

In addition to designating the annual international day of reflection and commemoration, which would start next year on the 30th anniversary of the massacres, the resolution also condemns genocide denial and the glorification of perpetrators.

The U.N.-backed International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia concluded in 2004 that genocide had been committed in the small mountain town in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina in July 1995. In 2007, the International Court of Justice also ruled that the massacres constituted genocide.

Regional opposition

The president of Bosnia's Serb-controlled Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, has threatened to secede from the country if the resolution is adopted.

Serbia's government has also vigorously campaigned against the resolution, urging its co-sponsors to withdraw it, saying it unfairly targets Serbia and attributes moral responsibility for genocide collectively to its people and will hurt the fragile reconciliation process, a claim the authors deny.

Montenegro suggested language that was added to the final text, clarifying that "criminal accountability under international law for the crime of genocide is individualized and cannot be attributed to any ethnic, religious, or other group or community as a whole."

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic traveled to New York for the vote. He urged the General Assembly to vote against the resolution, saying it was highly politicized and would only sow deeper divisions in the region.

"This is not about reconciliation; this is not about memories," he said. "This is something that will just open an old wound and that will create a complete political havoc  and not only in our region, but here in this hall."

On July 11, 1995, the U.N.-designated "safe area" of Srebrenica fell to Bosnian Serb forces. Over the next several days, at least 8,372 Bosnian Muslim boys and men were separated from their families, put on buses and taken to several locations including warehouses, schools and fields, where they were executed.

Their bodies were dumped in several mass graves. Investigators said their remains were later exhumed and moved to secondary graves in an extensive cover up. Experts used DNA samples from relatives to identify thousands of the murdered men.

The Hague-based tribunal for the former Yugoslavia convicted 16 people for crimes committed in Srebrenica, including eight men for the crime of genocide.

The General Assembly resolution adopted Thursday is partly modeled on a 2003 resolution that established the international day of reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. It has been observed at the United Nations every April 7 since 2004.

Some countries that abstained or voted against Thursday's Srebrenica resolution noted that there is also a day of remembrance for all victims of genocide, which the United Nations marks every December 9.

Others noted that there was no consensus in the region on the resolution and that they did not want to contribute to tensions.

Both the U.N. high commissioner for human rights and the special adviser on the prevention of genocide welcomed the resolution.

"This resolution is further recognition of the victims and survivors and their pursuit of justice, truth and guarantees of non-recurrence," human rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.

Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide Alice Nderitu said the resolution is important in light of the trend toward genocide denial in the region.

"Questioning the tragic reality of what happened in Srebrenica is not acceptable," she said, adding it would only hurt peace and reconciliation efforts.

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Africa home to nearly half of global displaced population, IDMC reports

By Mohammed Yusuf May 23, 2024

A record 75.9 million people are living in internal displacement due to conflict, and nearly half that number is in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a recent report.

The report from the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, or IDMC, shows 34.8 million people in the region were displaced in 2023, up from the previous year. The biggest increase came in Sudan, which is currently in the midst of civil war.

Sudanese doctor Aisha Hassan is among the millions of people newly displaced last year.

The doctor said that when she arrived for work at a hospital to tend to those injured in the country's ongoing civil war, she faced threats from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and gangs. The RSF has been at war with the Sudanese armed forces since April of last year.

The threat forced her to leave her patients and her city, Omdurman, northwest of the capital, Khartoum. Hassan said she and her family fled to safety.

"From there I went to North Sudan Al-Shimaliyya, it's called Karima. We stayed there for three months, and my family and I went to Port Sudan. From there we displaced here to Uganda," she said.

Fighting between the Sudanese armed forces and the RSF has displaced 9.1 million since April 2023, making Sudan the country with the most displaced people globally. According to the IDMC, the number marks "the most ever recorded in a single country since records began in 2008."

The conflict has made it difficult for aid agencies to reach the millions in need, triggering more displacement as people search for food, water, medicine and safety.

Elsewhere, fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo between the army and rebels has displaced close to 7 million people. Conflict in Ethiopia that began with a two-year war in Tigray in 2020, and erupted in many parts of the country, displaced 790,000 people last year.

Africa's conflicts are usually over territory, community politics, and control over resources, with at least 10 African countries, predominantly in West Africa, dealing with terrorism-related conflicts.

Burkina Faso is the most affected of the West African countries, with 700,000 people displaced last year, up 61 percent from 2022.

"A rising conflict is really contributing to the rising trend, and especially weather-related disasters, including floods, storms, and drought, are also contributing to pushing the figures to an all-time high," said Vicente Anzellini, coordinator and lead author of the IDMC report. "So all of this is really a concerning trend. It's important to underscore, however, that governments and humanitarian actors are taking more action and are producing more data. And this, of course, influences the trend."

Anzellini said governments need to improve their capabilities to resolve conflicts and cope with natural disasters.

"What we're really seeing in the region should be a reason for concern and more efforts need to be put in conflict resolution, of peace building, and disaster risk reduction across this region to reduce the trend that, again, highly influences the global trend," Anzellini said. "So if internal displacement is addressed and reduced in Africa, the global trend will also successfully reduce. And it's unfortunately not a trend that we're seeing in the last couple of years. And for this to happen more government leadership and investments will be needed."

The Swiss-based agency says the overwhelming majority of the displaced stay in their own countries as they struggle to survive and rebuild their lives.

For Hassan, it was too dangerous for her to stay, as armed groups started to loot her family's home while she was working in the hospital in Sudan.

"After two months or so, the Rapid Support team came and resided in our home," she said. "Now they are living in our home. I don't know how many of them there are, but they told us they are living there. They took my father's car, and they are living there."

The IDMC says no country is immune to disaster displacement and that conflicts in Sudan, the DRC, and the Palestinian territories drove up the number around the world.

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UN warns of more flooding in Afghanistan

By Roshan Noorzai, Waheed Faizi May 23, 2024

As the United Nations warns of more "intensive" floods affecting food security in Afghanistan in the coming months, experts say the country needs long-term planning to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

The U.N. said that floods in the northeastern and northwestern provinces in the past two weeks have affected more than 80,000 people in the country.

Local Taliban officials in the western province of Ghor said Thursday that last week's flood in the province killed at least 50 people and damaged more than 4,000 houses and shops.

According to the U.N., floods on May 10 and 11 in the northeastern provinces of Badakhshan, Takhar and Baghlan killed 347 people and injured 1,651. The floods destroyed 7,800 houses, killed nearly 14,000 livestock and destroyed about 24,000 hectares of land in the three provinces.

The worsening climate crisis has brought about "the erratic weather pattern," which has "become the norm" in the country, according to the World Food Program.

"The affected people are living in districts with higher food insecurity," said Ziauddin Safi, a spokesperson for WFP in Afghanistan, adding that "the floods are caused by unusual rainfall after a dry winter that left the ground too hard to absorb the rain caused by climate crisis."

"Unfortunately, WFP expects more floods in the future," Safi added.

Afghanistan remains one of the world's most vulnerable countries to climate change, though it has one of the lowest greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the INFORM Risk Index 2023, the country is ranked fourth on the list of countries most at risk of a crisis.

Afghanistan is also one of the most vulnerable and least prepared countries on the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Index.

Najibullah Sadid, an Afghan water specialist at the University of Stuttgart in Germany, told VOA that Afghanistan needs a long-term plan to mitigate the effects of climate change but that the country lacks resources.

"Unfortunately, without international economic support, implementing projects [to mitigate the effects of climate change] in Afghanistan is impossible," Sadid said.

He added that Afghanistan needs support from the U.N. Green Climate Fund and Loss and Damage Fund for Developing Countries.

Sadid said that Afghanistan has no capacity to prepare communities in the face of challenges caused by climate change.

Sadruddin Fakhruddin, a former Afghan official at the Ministry of Agriculture, told VOA that most of the affected people in the provinces depend on agriculture, and the floods "washed away the agricultural land and destroyed the irrigation system."

WFP has called for an additional $14.5 million to assist flood-affected people with "emergency food and nutrition assistance and resilience-building projects."

Even before the recent floods, the country was facing a humanitarian crisis.

WFP had requested $670 million for the first six months of 2024 to reach some 16 million people who needed food assistance in Afghanistan.

According to the U.N., 4 million people, including 3.2 million children under the age of 5, are malnourished in Afghanistan.

"Acute malnutrition is above emergency thresholds in 25 out of 34 provinces, and is expected to worsen, with almost half of children under 5 and a quarter of pregnant and breastfeeding women needing life-saving nutrition support in the next 12 months," according to WFP.

"Women and children were disproportionately affected by the floods as they were inside their homes during the heavy rains, while men sheltered in public buildings such as mosques," said the Gender in Humanitarian Action Working Group and the Women Advisory Group to the Humanitarian Country Team.

Fakhruddin said better management of resources is needed in the long term to mitigate the adverse effects of natural disasters in Afghanistan.

"In the short term, food security would be important; however, in the long term, issues such as reforestation, land and water management would need to be addressed."

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Chad transitional ruler inaugurated amid legitimacy concerns

By Moki Edwin Kindzeka May 23, 2024

Newly inaugurated Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby said Thursday he will preserve national unity and territorial integrity; respect his country's constitution; promote democracy, freedoms and liberties of all Chadians; and make sure all citizens have equal access to justice.

Deby's inauguration in N'Djamena, the capital of the central African state, ends three years of military transition and a return to constitutional order. But some doubt the legitimacy of Deby's electoral victory.

Speaking at his inauguration to several thousand citizens, government troops and invited guests from at least 45 countries, Deby said his immediate task is to reconcile differences among all Chadians, especially opposition parties that claim they won the May 6 presidential election.

He called on Chadians who have lived in exile for several years to return home, help develop the country and participate in democratic processes without fear.

Deby said he will promote a just and equitable society and promised to organize local and legislative elections soon, but he did not say when.

Chad's Constitutional Council declared Deby the winner of the presidential election with 61% of the vote. Opposition parties contested the results and accused Deby of rigging the vote, a claim Deby described as unfounded.

Max Kemkoye, spokesperson for the Consultation Group of Chad Political Actors, or GCAP, a grouping of opposition parties Deby has called radical, accused the new president of using the military to prolong his family's rule, which has had a firm grip on power since his father, Idriss Deby Ino, took over in a 1990 coup.

He said Deby had the military intimidate people from protesting what they consider a stolen victory. Civilians said heavily armed troops were deployed all over N'djamena during Deby's inauguration to stop possible protests.

Deby took power when his father was killed while fighting northern rebels in 2021. The younger Deby promised to hand power back to civilians within 18 months. He also told the opposition and the African Union that he would not stand for election as president.

But Deby extended the transition period by two years, and in March officially announced he would run for the top office.

Chad's opposition and some civil society groups said they were surprised that regional groups such as the Economic Community of Central African States and the African Union sent representatives to the inauguration.

Yamingue Betinbaye, a political analyst at the University of N'djamena, told VOA via a messaging app that the opposition expected more support because the AU Peace and Security Council has expressed concerns over the transitional government's refusal to respect an October 2022 decision by the country's Inclusive and Sovereign National Dialogue that leaders of the transitional government should not take part in elections.

Betinbaye said the AU should have noted that Chadian officials disrespected human rights and failed to ensure that all perpetrators of human rights violations are brought to justice, as recommended by the African Union.

Among the several dozen senior officials who represented their countries at Deby's inauguration were Gabon's transitional president, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Nigeria's Bola Tinibu, Togo's Faure Gnassingbe, Burundi's Evariste Ndayishimiye, Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau and Faustin-Archange Touadera of the Central African Republic.

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Remarks by President Biden and President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya at Arrival Ceremony

May 23, 2024

South Lawn

10:22 A.M. EDT

PRESIDENT BIDEN: Good morning. (Applause.) Hold the rain off.

President Ruto, Mrs. Ruto, and your three lovely daughters, who are here to my left, ni-  welcome. Welcome, welcome, welcome. And to all the distinguished guests.

On behalf of myself and Jill, Vice President, the Second Gentleman, and the American people, it's an honor to welcome you to the White House to celebrate 60 years  60 years of partnership between Kenya and the United States.

At the stroke of midnight  (applause)  that's worth applause. At the stroke of midnight on December 12th, 1963, the world changed. Many Americans and many people around the world watched with great hope and great anticipation as hundreds of thousands of Kenyans came together, raised a new flag, declared their freedom, and gave life to a new nation. Ladies and gentlemen, that new democracy  that new democracy is endearing and enduring.

It was a moment that forever connected our two nations. For while we may have been divided by distance, we're united by the same democratic values.

I saw this during my first trip to Kenya as a young senator at the height of the Cold War and watched our governments stand as one and prevail against communism.

I saw it when I returned years later as vice president and spoke to students committed to upholding the principles of transparency, justice, and accountability that lie at the heart of our democracies.

And I see it every day as President, as our two proud democracies continue to draw from the power of the people and the strength of our diversity to write the next chapter in our partnership.

Together, the United States and Kenya are working to deliver on the challenges that matter most to our people's lives: health security, economic security, cybersecurity, and climate security.

Mr. President, your bold leadership on this front has been important and significantly impactful. Ninety percent of Kenya's electricity comes from clean energy. Ninety percent. (Applause.) That's worth an applause.

Over 1 million homes are powered by wind energy alone. That's worth applause, too. (Applause.)

An historic Africa Green Industrialization Initiative, which you launched last year, is poised to create similar results in so many other nations, particularly in the continent.

Across the region, Kenya and America are driving a race to the top with investments that we have and high standards for workers, technology, and environment.

And we're working to ensure debt doesn't leave these critical investments and crucial investments out of reach for low- and middle-income countries.

Around the world, Kenya and America are also standing united against the terror of ISIS and al-Shabaab perpetrate in East Africa  that they continue to perpetrate in East Africa; the aggression that Russia is inflicting on Ukraine; the violence that has toppled too many democracies across both our regions.

And today, as we begin the next decade of our partnership, we've launched a new initiative to bring our countries, companies, and communities closer together, because the past is our proof that we are stronger and the world is safer when Kenya and the United States work together. (Applause.)

Let me close with this. We stand at an inflection point in history, where the decisions we make now will determine the course of our future for decades to come.

Today, I'm as optimistic and hopeful as I was those years ago when Kenya patriots raised that new flag high in that midnight sky, because Kenya and the United States stand together, committed to each other, committed to our people, and committed to building a better world  one of greater opportunity, dignity, security, and liberty for all Americans, for all Kenyans.

God bless our partnership. And may God bless our troops.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. (Applause.)

ANNOUNCER: Distinguished guests, the President of the Republic of Kenya. (Applause.)

PRESIDENT RUTO: Thank you.

President Joe Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, Madam Vice President, distinguished lad-  ladies and gentlemen, jambo.

AUDIENCE: Jambo.

PRESIDENT RUTO: Let me take this opportunity, in a very special way, to bring you warm greetings from the people, the government of Kenya, and your brothers and sisters across the African continent. (Applause.)

I want to thank President Biden for extending an invitation to me to undertake this state visit, a sign of friendship and partnership and collaboration between two countries that share common values: values of freedom, democracy, rule of law, equality, and inclusivity.

We are very proud democratic nation. And today, as we celebrate our past, we are optimistic about our future.

That I  by undertaking this state visit, we will have the opportunity to discuss and to have a conversation about building global partnership and leadership around the issues that pose challenges regionally, globally, and in countries like Kenya and many others: challenges of climate change, challenges of insecurity, challenges around debt distress.

And today, we have an occasion to build synergies, to build partnerships that will not only solve our current problems but also to build a future that is much more promising, much more prosperous  a fairer, a freer, a healthier, and a much more prosperous future.

I am confident  (applause)  I am confident, Mr. President, that the partnership between the United States of America and Kenya will give us the solutions that the world so seriously needs.

And we will be discussing a range of issues, from peace and security in our region, recognizing the heavy lifting Kenya is doing in supporting peace and security efforts in the Horn of Africa, in the Great Lakes region. And I want to say, Mr. President, we value the support, the friendship, and the collaboration the United States has given Kenya and our region to make sure that we undertake our responsibilities in securing our region. (Applause.)

Mr. President, we will also be having the opportunity to discuss the investment opportunities, trade; and hopefully, we will be able to persuade the United States to renew the African Growth and Opportunities Act that gives Africa  (applause)  the opportunity for access to market so that we can create more jobs, we can create more wealth, and we can spread prosperity across our continent.

And hopefully, also, we will conclude on our strategic partnership on  our strategic trade and investment partnership that will give us the opportunity in Kenya to work with companies in the United States and to build greater synergy around our continent on matters to do with trade investment, especially as we put together the Africa Continental Free Trade Area and twin it with the United States, as we discussed at the Africa Leaders Summit last year, giving us an opportunity to build greater partnership between the continent of Africa and the United States.

Mr. President, I know that our menu of discussion is broad and wide. And I am confident that, under your leadership, we will be able to build a freer, a healthier, and a much more prosperous Kenya, United States, and for people around the world.

Thank you very much. (Applause.)

10:32 A.M. EDT

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U.S.-Europe divisions deepen as Norway, Ireland, Spain recognize Palestinian statehood

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:08, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Norway, Ireland and Spain on Wednesday decided to recognize Palestine as a state, marking a significant shift in European policy more than seven months into the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

However, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan dismissed the three nations' move as "unilateral recognition" at a press briefing on Wednesday, asserting that President Joe Biden believes the two-state solution should be achieved "through direct negotiations through the parties."

As Israel and Hamas failed to reach a ceasefire agreement during talks in Cairo earlier this month mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, the U.S. opposition to the recognition has highlighted expanding transatlantic divisions.

RECOGNITION WAVE

In Wednesday's coordinated announcements, Norway was the first to act. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store declared at a press conference that "a Palestinian state is a prerequisite for achieving peace in the Middle East."

Ireland quickly followed. In Dublin, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said the decision should not have to wait "indefinitely" when it is "the right thing to do." He expressed confidence that more countries would take this important step in the coming weeks.

Spain joined in soon after. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that Spain recognizes Palestine "for peace, for justice, and for consistency," urging both parties to engage in dialogue to achieve a two-state solution.

In the past week, several other European countries, including Malta and Slovenia, have also signaled their intent to follow suit. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said Wednesday that Belgium was waiting for the "right moment."

Shada Islam, a Brussels-based commentator on EU affairs, suggested that the recognition by Norway, Ireland, and Spain is "almost certainly" going to be followed by Belgium, Malta, and Slovenia in the coming weeks.

Some of the United States' traditional allies are considering recognition. French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne said that such recognition is not taboo, though he stressed the timing, saying conditions had not yet been met. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made a similar statement.

Wednesday's recognition drew anger from Israel, which announced it is recalling its envoys to the three countries.

EXPANDING U.S.-EUROPE RIFTS

While the recognition has received mixed reactions in Europe, the continent's stance on Israel has gradually shifted, especially as more than 35,000 Palestinians have been killed since Oct. 7 last year. This shift has exposed rising rifts between the United States and Europe.

Store also revealed that Norway supports granting Palestine full membership status in the United Nations. The United States, however, vetoed a draft resolution in April recommending that the General Assembly admit Palestine to the United Nations, drawing widespread disappointment.

Britain and Switzerland abstained from the vote, while the remaining members of the UN Security Council voted in favor.

Days earlier, the United States showed support for Israel by denouncing an International Criminal Court (ICC) application to arrest two Israeli government officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and three Hamas leaders.

Biden called the application "outrageous," saying in a statement that "we will always stand with Israel against threats to its security." In April, Biden also piled up U.S. aid to Israel by signing a security assistance bill that included approximately 14.1 billion U.S. dollars in funding to support Israel.

The Biden administration is considering potential sanctions against the ICC over the arrest request, said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday. The United States and Israel are not members of the ICC.

In contrast, the French Foreign Ministry stated its support for the ICC, saying it supports "the fight against impunity in every situation." Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Hadja Lahbib called the ICC request "an important step in the investigation of the situation in Palestine."

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell asserted that "all states that have ratified the ICC statutes are bound to execute the Court's decision."

As UN agencies continued to warn of dire consequences in Gaza, including famine and epidemics, EU leaders in March unanimously called for "an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire" in Gaza.

Despite this, the United States has maintained its truce-for-hostages stance, though its language has become more ambiguous under pressure.

On March 22, the UN Security Council rejected a U.S.-proposed draft resolution on a Gaza ceasefire. Nabil Kahlouche, a strategic studies specialist from the Algiers-based National Institute of Strategic Global Studies, argued that tying a ceasefire to the release of Israeli detainees contradicts the logical sequence of events, and that "releasing detainees should follow the cessation of aggression, not vice versa."

The EU statement also called for "the unconditional release of all hostages," without linking it to a ceasefire.

"I believe it is important that on issues of such moral and geopolitical significance, national EU governments are able to make decisions based on their own values and interests, regardless of what their EU partners say and irrespective of the stance taken by the U.S.," Islam told Xinhua.

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Operation Iron Swords - Day 231 - 24 May 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)

Some sources claim the decisions of the International Court of Justice [ICJ] are binding, which is true in the sense that there is no other body to which ICJ decisions may be appealed. But this terminology is misleading, because it creates the impression that compliance with ICJ decisions is mandatory, which is true if the stae in quesiton has accepted the "compulsory jusrisdiction" of the court. But Israel renounced compulsory juridiction in 1985, as did the United States in 1986.

The ICJ may only exercise jurisdiction over claims brought by states if the defendant state agrees to submit to its jurisdiction. Israel was one of the first states to ratify the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, which provides for compulsory jurisdiction in case of genocide.

The International Court of Justice said that Israel must immediately stop its attack on the city of Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, in a decision issued today, Friday, at the request of South Africa, as part of a comprehensive lawsuit accusing Tel Aviv of committing genocide crimes in the Strip. The text of the decision - which was read by the president of the court, Lebanese Judge Nawaf Salam - stated that according to the Genocide Convention, any additional action in Rafah may lead to partial or total destruction.

The court considered that the ground attack on Rafah - which began on May 7 - is a dangerous development that increases the suffering of the population, noting that Israel did not do enough to ensure the safety and security of the displaced. Judge Salam explained that the circumstances require changing the decision issued by the court on March 28, which is the second decision in the lawsuit requiring Israel to take emergency measures to ensure the arrival of humanitarian aid to Gaza. It came after the first decision last January, which ordered Israel to comply with the Genocide Convention.

The court also ordered Israel to keep the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza open, which has been closed since the launch of its ground operation in the governorate in early May. The court, which is based in The Hague, Netherlands, also called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages held in Gaza. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres took note of the new provisional measures, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told journalists at UN Headquarters. Recalling that, pursuant to the UN Charter and to the Statute of the Court, the decisions of the ICJ are binding, the UN chief trusts that the parties will duly comply with the order from the court.

The European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarcic, stressed that the Court of Justices decision is binding on the parties and everyone must comply with it.

South Africa, which was asking the International Court of Justice for the fourth time to take emergency measures in this case, said during the hearings last week that the genocide committed by Israel has reached a horrific level, noting the discovery of mass graves, the recording of acts of torture, and the obstruction of aid. Vaughan Lowe, a lawyer representing South Africa, said the Israeli operation in Rafah is "the final step in the destruction of Gaza and its Palestinian people." The next day, Israel responded to the judges that its accusation of genocide...is completely disconnected from reality. The chief lawyer representing Israel, Gilad Noam, said that there was no large-scale attack in Rafah, but rather specific operations that were preceded by evacuation efforts and support for humanitarian activities.

The court said that the conditions are met to take new emergency measures in the case of accusing Israel of genocide, and ruled that Israel should stop its military operations and any other actions in Rafah. The decision obligates Israel to ensure the access of any committee to investigate or find facts regarding the charge of genocide, and also obligates it to submit to the court within a month a report on the steps it will take.

Reading the new provisional measures in an open session at the court in The Hague, ICJ Justice Nawaf Salam announced that Israel must abide by its obligations under the Genocide Convention to immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in the Rafah governate which may inflict upon the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that would bring about its physical destruction in whole and in part.

The court is not convinced that evacuation efforts and related measures that Israel has affirmed to have undertaken to enhance the security of civilians in the Gaza Strip, and in particular those recently displaced from the Rafah governate, are sufficient to alleviate immense risks to which the Palestinian population is exposed as a result of the military offensive in Rafah, Mr. Salam said.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) are two distinct entities within the international legal system, each with specific functions and jurisdictions. The ICC prosecutes individuals for serious international crimes, while the ICJ resolves disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on international law. The ICC is an independent entity established by the Rome Statute, whereas the ICJ is a UN organ created by the UN Charter. Both are based in The Hague, Netherlands, but operate from different premises.

The ICJ's jurisdiction can be compulsory, special agreement, or treaty-based. As of November 2021, 73 states have accepted the ICJ's compulsory jurisdiction, which means that any international legal dispute involving those states can be submitted to the ICJ. The ICJ can only deal with a dispute if the states involved have recognized its jurisdiction. The ICJ's judgments are final and binding on the parties involved, and cannot be appealed.

Over the past three decades, the Court has become increasingly active. More and more States are having recourse to the Court, since it offers convenient and effective means for the peaceful resolution of their differences. Its unique mandate, which comprises all cases which the Parties refer to it and all matters specially provided for in the Charter of the United Nations or in treaties and conventions in force, coupled with its universal character, as well as the authoritative value of its decisions and consent-based nature of its jurisdiction, make the Court the preferred mechanism for the adjudication of legal disputes between States.

In the 1950s, Israel informed the United Nations (UN) that it accepted the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) compulsory jurisdiction, but with some conditions. On October 17, 1956, Israel's declaration stated that it recognized the ICJ's jurisdiction as compulsory, without a special agreement, in relation to all other UN members and non-member states that became parties to the ICJ Statute. However, in 1985, Israel notified the UN Secretary-General that it no longer accepted the ICJ's compulsory jurisdiction. As of February 2024, Israel is one of several countries that have not signed a declaration recognizing the ICJ's jurisdiction, including China, Iraq, Libya, Qatar, and Yemen. The U.S., for instance, withdrew from compulsory jurisdiction in 1986.

For more than 7 months, the Israeli army has been waging what some international experts describe as a war of extermination against the Palestinians in Gaza, where tens of thousands were martyred and injured - most of them children and women - and nearly 70% of the civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools and hospitals, was destroyed.

Political analysts believe that Tel Aviv will not implement the orders of the International Court of Justice calling for an immediate halt to the war on Rafah, and they expect that Israel will not deal with these decisions, according to Tel Avivs many precedents with international law. According to Cristino Marinello, professor of international law at the University of Liverpool, Tel Aviv will not implement the orders of the International Court of Justice to stop the war on Rafah, and he believes that member states have no choice but to explore all legal means to stop the invasion of Rafah and facilitate the entry of humanitarian goods into the Gaza Strip.

The writer specializing in Israeli affairs, Ihab Jabareen, supported Marinellos point of view that Israel will not deal with the courts decisions and will not give it legitimacy by dictating decisions, because Tel Aviv has multiple precedents in this regard. Dr. Liqa Makki, senior researcher at Al Jazeera Center for Studies, also agreed with the two guests that Tel Aviv will not implement this decision and will accuse the court of anti-Semitism and anti-Israelism.

According to Dr. Makki, the importance of the International Court of Justice lies in that it is an international human rights organization affiliated with the United Nations, and its decisions are binding according to international law. Makki explained that Israel's political losses during this war had not occurred since the Nakba of 1948 , citing Netanyahu's words, "The Battle of Rafah is the battle that saves Israel, which will end the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), resolve the battle, and save the hostages." He said that Netanyahu has not succeeded so far. Rather, Battles renewed in other areas. Makki also believes that the decision has increased strong pressure on Israel, and that its moral impact must bear fruit. He expects that the decision will force Israel to make concessions at the negotiating table that were not on the table since the beginning of the war.

Marnello considered - within the political analysis segment on Al Jazeera - the court's decision as one of the most important decisions taken by the court's judges, as it represents a strong position because it clearly imposes a ceasefire. A member of the legal team for war victims in Gaza before the International Criminal Court expected that the court's member states would impose immediate sanctions on Israel, similar to what it did with Russia, and that the UN Security Council would hold an emergency meeting to discuss ways to implement the court's decision. Marinello explained that the ball is now in the court of the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly , in addition to the responsibility of individual countries to impose a complete ban on the transfer of weapons to Israel.

But Jabareen pointed out that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's call for an urgent meeting indicates that Israel takes these decisions seriously. Jabareen did not rule out that Israeli diplomacy would seek to circumvent the decision in several ways, including going to the negotiating table in accordance with what War Council member Minister Benny Gantz intended in one way or another. The writer specializing in Israeli affairs pointed out that the courts decisions could increase pressure on the Tel Aviv government if two of the three difficulties that Netanyahu has succeeded in confronting using the divide and rule plan - so far - unite, which are the protests, the opposition, and the security services.

Israeli officials were quick to attack the court and denounce its decision, as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said , Our future does not depend on what the Gentiles say, but rather on what we Jews do. He added that the response to the court's "anti-Semitic" decision - as he described it - was to "occupy Rafah and increase military pressure on Hamas ," according to what was reported by Israeli Channel 12. In the same context, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that Israel "is at war over its existence, and whoever asks it to stop the war is asking for it to not exist." The Israeli Broadcasting Authority said that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would hold a meeting to discuss the response to the International Court of Justices decision.

Israel rejected South Africa's accusations that it had committed genocide, while stressing that its military operations in the city of Rafah "do not threaten to destroy the Palestinian civilian population." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office rejected South Africa's accusations that Israel had committed genocide, describing them as "false and disgraceful." He added that the Israeli military campaign in the city of Rafah did not and will not "lead to the destruction of the Palestinian civilian population." Netanyahu's office explained in a joint statement with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs that he will continue to allow aid into the Gaza Strip "in accordance with the law." In turn, National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi and the Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman said in a joint statement that Israel does not intend and will not carry out military operations in the Rafah area that lead to living conditions that could cause the destruction of the Palestinian civilian population, whether in full or in part.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir accused the international court of "anti-Semitism" and called for the occupation of Rafah. Ben Gvir considered that "the irrelevant order issued by the anti-Semitic court in The Hague must have only one answer: the occupation of Rafah, increased military pressure and the complete defeat of Hamas - until complete victory in the war is achieved."

Member of the political-security cabinet and finance minister Bezalel Smotrich wrote: "The State of Israel is at war for its existence. During sad periods in history we could not stand on our own. Today the Jewish people have independence and the ability to protect their lives. Whoever demands that the State of Israel stop the war, demands We will not agree to this. If we lay down our weapons, the enemy will come to the beds of our children and women. We will continue to fight for us and for the whole free world.

Minister Benny Gantz said that "the State of Israel embarked on a just and committed campaign, after a brutal terrorist organization massacred our citizens, raped our women, kidnapped our children and fired missiles at the centers of our cities. The State of Israel is obligated to continue fighting to return its abductees and ensure the safety of its citizens, At any time and in any place - including in Rafah. We will continue to act according to international law in Rafah and in any place where we operate, and make an effort to avoid harming the civilian population, not because of the court in The Hague - but first of all because of who we are."

The Minister of the Negev and the Galilee Yitzhak Wasserlauf attacked the Hague Tribunal and wrote that he is "Hamas's scapegoat". Later he added: "We are deeply shocked by the biased and dangerous decision of the International Tribunal in The Hague. This decision is not only shocking, but also a chilling reminder that anti-Semitism still exists and is being legitimized."

"We must remember: the war against Nazism is not over," he continued. "Anti-Semitism still rears its ugly head, both within our borders and around the world. We will not rest until we ensure that the oppressive Nazis and their satanic ideology are finally defeated."

The chairman of the Israel Beitenu party ["Israel Our Home" party0, MK Avigdor Lieberman, also tweeted on his Twitter account: "As I warned, the decision of the Israeli government to appear before the International Court of Justice in The Hague was a serious mistake and falling into a trap with a predetermined end. The court's decision from today , proves that the various UN institutions, as well as the Criminal Court in The Hague, have become aides to terrorists all over the world and their entire role is to deter democratic countries in their fight against terrorist organizations."

The prominent figure in the Likud Party, MP Danny Danon, commented, saying, Members of the Hague tribunal deliberated in air-conditioned rooms and returned to their families after the session, while 125 kidnapped persons were languishing in the tunnels. He stressed that his country is continuing the war in Gaza and that it will not stop until Hamas is defeated and the kidnapped people are returned.

On the eve of the expected decision, Israeli media said that the country is preparing for the worst, as officials believedthat the courts judges will at least partially accept the request, according to a report published by The Times of Israel . Israeli media suggest that the decision includes either "a halt to the operation in Rafah or a complete cessation of the war."

This decision comes at a time when the Israeli legal team defends the military operations in Rafah as a necessity to eliminate Hamas and find hostages, and describes its operations as limited and local, according to a report by the Washington Post. This decision is also considered part of a broader case in which South Africa accuses Israel of violating the Genocide Convention.

The decision in favor of South Africa would be a new blow to Israel after the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan , requested the issuance of arrest warrants against the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, his Defense Minister, Yoav Galant, and three Hamas leaders, Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya. Al-Sanwar and Muhammad Al-Deif, accused of committing crimes in the Gaza Strip and Israel, according to an Agence France-Presse report.

Before its incursion into Rafah, the Israeli army ordered large-scale evacuations in the east of the governorate, where it says it wants to destroy the last Hamas brigades, its tunnel network, and rescue hostages. By demanding the issuance of an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the name of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan, made headlines in the international media, with some celebrating his decision as standing up to the crimes against humanity committed by the Israeli government in Gaza, while Others criticized him, specifically in Israel and the United States.

According to the United Nations, these operations have displaced 800,000 people, while one million Palestinians in Gaza face catastrophic levels of hunger. Reuters points out that the ruling against Israel could harm its international reputation and set a legal precedent. An Israeli government spokesman said before the decision was issued: There is no force on the ground that can prevent Israel from protecting its citizens and pursuing Hamas in Gaza.

The Times of Israel newspaper indicated that a report published by the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper website quoted an unnamed official who believes that there is a small chance that the International Court of Justice will reject South Africas request to stop hostilities, and there is a medium chance that the court will accept the demand to stop the war in Gaza, and the medium to high possibility that the decision will focus on a ceasefire in Rafah.

An Israeli government spokesman said on Thursday that Israel will not be deterred from continuing its war against Hamas, a day before the International Court of Justice issued its ruling on South Africas request to issue an order to stop military operations in the Gaza Strip. Some scenarios also suggest "a high probability that the court will issue additional orders to increase humanitarian aid to the Palestinians in Gaza." For its part, Channel 12 quoted unnamed officials that Israel "does not intend to support such decisions."

Professor of public international law, expert in international conflicts, Muhammad Mahmoud Mahran, described the decision of the International Court of Justice, which obliges Israel to stop its military operation in Rafah, as a victory for the Palestinian people. Mahran confirmed in exclusive statements to RT that this decision comes in response to the urgent request submitted by South Africa to the court, after Israels invasion of the city of Rafah, where it demanded binding temporary measures to protect Palestinian civilians, based on Israels violation of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide of 1948.

He also clarified that the court, under Article 41 of its statute, has the authority to take temporary measures to protect the rights of the parties to the conflict and prevent the situation from worsening, if it deems that the circumstances require it, indicating that this is what actually happened in its decision issued today, Friday, which obligated Israel to stop its work. Hostilities in Rafah immediately, and ensure the access of humanitarian aid and freedom of movement of civilians.

The international expert pointed out that the courts decision is also based on the provisions of international humanitarian law, in particular the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 for the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, which prohibits indiscriminate attacks and collective punishment against civilian populations under occupation, and obliges the occupying authority to respect their basic rights and human dignity.

Mahran stressed that the orders of the International Court of Justice, as the main judicial body of the United Nations, are legally binding on all parties to the conflict in accordance with Article 94 of the United Nations Charter, and that Israel must immediately comply with the decision to stop the invasion of Rafah, otherwise it will be exposed to further international condemnation and sanctions.

He added that this decision strengthens the legitimacy of the Palestinian resistance in the face of the occupation, and affirms the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and establish their independent state, in accordance with the resolutions of international legitimacy and the principles of international law. It also exposes Israel's claims regarding its right to self-defense, while it is the aggressor against the Palestinian land and people.

The international law professor expected that the courts decision would put increasing international pressure on Israel to stop its aggressive and settlement policies in all the occupied Palestinian territories, and would open the door to holding it accountable for its crimes before international courts, in light of growing international support for the Palestinian cause and increasing recognition of the State of Palestine, as happened recently by European countries such as Spain, Norway and Ireland.

He also called on the international community to intensify pressure on Israel to comply with the provisions of international law and international legitimacy, end its occupation of Palestinian territories, and enable the Palestinian people to exercise their inalienable rights, leading to achieving just and comprehensive peace in the region on the basis of the two-state solution.

Nabil Abu Rudeina, spokesman for the Palestinian presidency, told Reuters that the Palestinian Authority welcomes the International Court of Justices decision, saying that it represents an international consensus on the demand to stop the comprehensive war on Gaza. The Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations welcomed the courts decision, and Riyad Mansour told reporters, We welcome these temporary measures, especially regarding stopping the military operation in Rafah (...) and the call to reopen the Rafah crossing to bring in humanitarian aid, stressing that they must be respected. Israel makes these binding decisions without hesitation.

Mansour said in a press conference from the UN headquarters in New York: Israel has no choice but to commit to implementing all the decisions of the International Court of Justice, noting that there are precautionary decisions of the court that demanded the cessation of military operations in the entire Gaza Strip, and demanded the opening of the Rafah crossing, the entry of aid in the required size, and the confrontation for forced displacement.

Hamas also welcomed the International Court's decision, noting that it was waiting for it to include the entire Gaza Strip. The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) expressed its welcome of the courts decision, which demands the criminal Zionist entity to immediately stop its aggression against the city of Rafah.

Hamas called on the international community and the United Nations to put pressure on the occupation to immediately oblige it to this resolution, holding the international community and all relevant United Nations institutions, led by the UN Security Council... a historic responsibility in order to achieve the principle of international justice. She added: We expected the International Court of Justice to issue a decision to stop the aggression and genocide against our people in the entire Gaza Strip, and not just in Rafah Governorate. What is happening in Jabalia and other governorates of the Gaza Strip is no less criminal and dangerous than what is happening in Rafah.

Osama Hamdan, one of the leaders of this movement, emphasized that we welcome this ruling and demand pressure on the Zionist regime to implement it immediately. Hamdan clarified that without the true international will, the decisions and rulings of the International Court of Justice will be ineffective. He emphasized that if the Zionist regime opposes the verdict of the Hague Court, this regime cannot be trusted in any negotiations. Hamdan considered the American government complicit in the war and genocide against the Palestinian nation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt announced in a statement that it welcomes the order of the Hague Court to stop the attack on Rafah. Cairo welcomed the Court of Justices decision, and a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Egypt calls on Israel to comply with its legal obligations within the framework of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and international humanitarian law, and to implement all provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice. She added that the courts decisions are considered legally binding and enforceable, as they are issued by the highest international judicial body. It stressed that Israel bears full legal responsibility for the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip as the occupying power, and called on Israel to stop its systematic policies against the Palestinian people of targeting, starvation, and siege.

The Jordanian foreign minister also emphasized that the International Court of Justice once again revealed the war crimes committed by the Zionist regime in Gaza. Ayman Safadi stated that the Security Council must fulfill its responsibilities and stop the Zionist regime from escaping from punishment and put an end to double standards in the implementation of international laws. Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Al-Safadi said that the Court of Justices decision revealed Israeli war crimes. He added on the X website: Once again, the International Court of Justice exposes Israeli war crimes in Gaza. Once again, the Israeli government is acting in contempt of international law and refusing to comply with the courts orders. Al-Safadi called on the Security Council to assume its responsibilities and put an end to Israels impunity and double standards in applying international law.

The President of Colombia also emphasized that the decision of the Hague Court to stop the genocide of the Netanyahu government showed the nature of the barbaric attacks against the Palestinian nation. Rami Abdeh, head of the European Mediterranean Human Rights Watch, also said that the decisions of the Hague Court are binding and there is no need to approve them in the Security Council, and only this court has the authority to cancel them. The group of Arab countries in the Security Council also welcomed this decision and said that the Zionist regime should implement the temporary measures of the Hague Court without any delay.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia welcomed this ruling and asked the international community to oblige the Zionist regime to adhere to all its clauses. Saudi Arabia also welcomed the order of the International Court of Justice to immediately stop the military operations of the Zionist regime in Rafah.

In a statement , the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey welcomed the Hague Court's order to stop the attack on Rafah and reopen the crossings for aid to the Gaza Strip. Amnesty International also stated that the Zionist regime must adhere to the order of the Hague Court, which calls for the cessation of military operations against Rafah. The Deputy Prime Minister of Canada also expressed hope that all parties will adhere to this order and international laws.

Saudi Arabia welcomed the decision of the International Court of Justice. A statement by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the courts decision as a positive step towards the moral and legal right of the Palestinian people. Saudi Arabia stressed the importance of international resolutions covering all of the Palestinian territories in accordance with the relevant resolutions of international legitimacy, and renewed its call on the international community to assume its responsibilities to stop all forms of aggression against the Palestinian people.

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jassem Al-Budaiwi, welcomed the decision of the International Court of Justice, and said in a statement: This decision issued by the highest judicial body in the United Nations reflects the international communitys commitment to international law and justice, and enhances the protection of the rights of the Palestinian people. Al-Budaiwi called on the international community, with all its organizations and institutions, to put pressure on Israel to take the necessary measures to ensure its compliance with these decisions. Al-Budaiwi also affirmed the full support of the GCC countries for the Palestinian people in their legitimate struggle to obtain their legitimate rights and establish their state.

The South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs also welcomed the court ruling, which it described as unprecedented, stressing that it is a binding decision, and Israel must comply with it. Last December, South Africa filed this lawsuit accusing Israel of committing genocide before the International Court of Justice, and the court rejected Israels request to cancel the entire case. As part of the lawsuit, the court ordered Israel to comply with the Genocide Convention and allow aid to flow into the Gaza Strip without obstacles, but it did not go so far as to demand an end to the war.

The court's decision came with the approval of 13 of its members, while two members rejected it. Only two judges from Uganda and Israel itself opposed the order, respectively the Ugandan judge, Julia Sibutende, and the former chief justice of the Israeli Supreme Court, Aharon Barak. In 2012, Sibutinde became the first African woman to be appointed to the International Court of Justice, while Barak was appointed after South Africas lawsuit under the Courts statute, which stipulates that a country that does not have a judge of its nationality on the bench can choose a judge to sit on its case.

Judge Julia Sebutinde held that, in the absence of any evidence of genocide, the ICJ had no jurisdiction to adjudicate and, therefore, no jurisdiction to make interim orders. Sibutinde wrote, justifying her dissenting opinion from her colleagues, that the measures announced by the International Court of Justice are not justified because the courts jurisdiction is limited to the Genocide Convention and does not extend to alleged violations of international humanitarian law, according to what was reported by the CNN News Network. Since her 2012 appointment and reappointment in 2021, Sibutinde has served on the court during three more genocide cases. In both cases where interim measures were requested, Sibutende voted in favour. This includes the 2022 case between Ukraine and Russia, in which it voted in favor of all three temporary measures passed, which included demands that Russia immediately cease its military operations in Ukraine.

Barak was born in 1936 in Lithuania, and when he was a boy he was smuggled into a bag from the ghetto in his hometown of Kovno, after it was occupied by the Nazis, which is currently called Kaunas in the south of the country. The New York Times indicated in a previous report that Barak immigrated with his parents to the Palestinian territories in 1947, one year before the founding of Israel. He is an internationally respected judicial figure who is also seen in Israel, but his selection to join the International Court was met with strong criticism from prominent ministers and politicians on the hard right because of his opposition to the judicial reform plan of the right-wing government of Benjamin Netanyahu.

In January 2024, the ICJ issued an interim ruling, ordering Israel to take measures to prevent genocide in Gaza following South Africa's case against Israel. South Africa filed the genocide case in December 2023, accusing Israel of genocidal actions in Gaza. Israel launched the war on Gaza on October 7 in response to the Palestinian resistance movement's Operation Al-Aqsa Storm.

War Termination

Without weakening the Gazan terrorist organization, no alternative has a chance to establish itself - Hamas will eliminate it as it did to the Palestinian Authority in 2007, according to Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Tamir Himan is the head of the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) and former head of the AMN. The transfer of civil powers to the residents of Gaza is the nightmare of the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Yahya Sinwar, and is a political defeat for the terrorist organization and for Qatar. A civil alternative organization will release Israel from the responsibility of taking care of the basic needs of the 2 million residents of the Gaza Strip. This will not relieve the legal responsibility, but will make it much easier from an operational point of view. Without a civilian organization in charge of distributing humanitarian aid, Hamas remains the body that does so. In doing so, the terrorist organization strengthens its authority vis-a-vis the Palestinian public and creates a narrative of "total victory" over Israel.

As long as there is motivation among young Palestinians to oppose Israel, against every terrorist killed there will be several volunteers to complete the ranks: the population of Gaza consists of an overwhelming majority of young people. Assume, if only for the sake of discussion, that only half of them are Hamas supporters, then the organization will have no difficulty recruiting about 15,000 new terrorists in six months - the attrition rate that the IDF has managed to create so far. The idea of resistance is the only idea in Gaza today, as is evident from recent public opinion polls conducted by the Shakaki Institute, which indicate broad support for Hamas and a violent struggle against Israel. This support is the source of the organization's strength, as it enables its survival.

Himan wrote "In the second intifada I commanded a regional brigade (Hatmar) in Judea and Samaria. The number of terrorists we eliminated and arrested was enormous. But as long as Yasser Arafat was in power and pushed for the idea of resistance, the "fountain" of terrorists continued to flow and fill the barrel at a rate that exceeded the rate at which we "pumped". At times it seemed that this was a Sisyphean operation and that "there is no bottom to the barrel of terror".

"The turn occurred after the death of Arafat and the rise to power of Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen), who proposed an alternative idea to armed resistance - "non-violent resistance" - and later the idea of "building the nation and consolidating its institutions". These ideas allowed many young people to realize their national pride and their struggle for Israel in other ways, and were a competition to the idea of armed resistance. Many young people enlisted in the Palestinian security forces, others in investing resources in building a Palestinian city, and some are still involved today in attempts to take over Area C and more.

"Thus, in a process that lasted about two years, the trend was reversed and the "barrel of terror" began to be emptied. The rate of attrition of terrorism by the IDF, which continued to act with full force against terrorism, was higher than the ability of the armed resistance organizations to recruit terrorists. This is exactly what is lacking in Gaza today.... We continue to erode the military layer of Hamas and allow it to renew itself time after time from the civilian layer. "

Politico newspaper , citing four American officials, reported on Thursday that the administration of US President Joe Biden is planning to appoint an American official to serve as chief civilian advisor to a mostly Palestinian force when the war between Israel and Hamas ends. The newspaper suggested that this is an indication of US plans. To become significantly involved in securing post-war Gaza.

The sources, who spoke to the newspaper on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations, indicated that the civilian advisor will be based in the region and work closely with the force commander, who may be either Palestinian or from one of the Arab countries. Politico noted that Washington is still discussing the amount of official authority that this advisor will have, but all officials confirmed that this is part of a plan for the United States to play a prominent role in extracting Gaza from desperate chaos.

The newspaper reported that private discussions between the White House, the Pentagon, and the State Department regarding the advisors role, which were not previously reported, showed that the Biden administration expects to be at the heart of what happens to Gaza long after the conflict has calmed down. Thus, the United States will be partly responsible for what comes next, including improving the lives of 2.2 million Palestinians suffering in the devastated lands.

The officials said the advisor would never enter Gaza itself, an indication of a desire to avoid any suggestion that the United States would dictate the future of the Strip. Two officials told Politico that the advisor may be stationed in Sinai, and another said that he may be in Jordan. The newspaper reported that the proposal for the advisor and a peacekeeping force had been secretly circulated within the administration for months.

Through an intense planning phase, the Biden administration is working to bring together multiple partners inside and outside the United States to come up with ideas for achieving stability in Gaza after the war, that is, maintaining security and avoiding an insurgency that could plunge the Strip into further turmoil, according to the newspapers words. The four officials told POLITICO that the advisor's plan is one of several "day after" scenarios put forward for the war, which include others focused on developing Gaza's economy and rebuilding destroyed cities. While many plans include some kind of peacekeeping force, discussions remain heated about its composition and the powers it would be given.

Operational Update

Further to the warning that was activated about the infiltration of aircraft in the north of the country, this is a false identification. Following on from the alerts that were activated about the firing of rockets and missiles in the north of the country, this is a false alert.

The bodies of the abductees Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nissenbaum and Orion Hernandez were recovered tonight in a joint operation by the IDF and Shin Bet. According to reliable intelligence information in IDF possession, it appears that the abductees were murdered during the brutal terrorist attack on October 7 and were abducted by Hamas terrorists from the level crossing to Gaza. The bodies of the abductees were recovered tonight during a night operation by the IDF and Shin Bet under Division 98 in cooperation with the Yalam unit, Unit 504 and fighters of a special unit of the Amman and the Shin Bet in the Jabaliya neighborhood, relying on accurate intelligence information that was received and analyzed during the days The latter were at the headquarters of the POWs and Missing Persons in the Intelligence Division, in the Southern Command in cooperation with the Shin Bet. At the beginning of the operation, there was intense fighting in the area. After an identification procedure carried out by medical officials at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine and the Israel Police, IDF representatives notified their families during the day. The IDF and the Shin Bet share in the grief of the families at this difficult time. The IDF spokesman calls on the public to refrain from spreading unfounded rumors and information, and to listen to the official announcements. The IDF and the Shin Bet continue, even at this time, with the activation of all operational and intelligence efforts, in order to realize the supreme national mission of returning all the abductees.

Operational Update - Gaza

To ensure the security of the floating pier, the U.S. Navy has installed a counter-rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM) system, along with an M-LIDS anti-drone system. Two U.S. soldiers sustained light injuries on Thursday during a work accident near the temporary floating pier in Gaza. The soldiers were promptly evacuated through Ashdod Port to an Israeli hospital for treatment. The pier has been targeted several times by Hamas terrorists using mortar fire and explosive suicide drones.

The US Agency for International Development said, "About 900,000 people were forcibly displaced from the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, as a result of the ongoing Israeli military operation." She explained, in a brief statement issued today, Friday, that the displaced people headed to areas hosting large numbers and suffering from a lack of services.

The White House said, Friday, that US President Joe Biden consulted with his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, regarding a new initiative to release detainees and establish a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza. The White House added that Biden welcomed Sisi's decision to temporarily allow the flow of humanitarian aid through the Kerem Shalom crossing. The US President also expressed his commitment to supporting efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing through arrangements acceptable to Egypt and Israel.

The White House announced that Washington will send a high-level team to Cairo next week to continue the discussion. The Egyptian presidency published a statement on Facebook on Friday, in which it said that Sisi received a phone call from Biden, during which developments in the situation in the Gaza Strip were discussed. The statement stated that Biden expressed his deep appreciation for the intense, diligent and ongoing Egyptian efforts and mediation to reach a ceasefire and a truce agreement in the Gaza Strip.

Today the Israeli army carried out an air and artillery bombardment on Rafah, which was described as unprecedented. Israel escalated its deadly strikes on the besieged Gaza Strip as the UN's top court prepares to rule on a plea to halt the Israeli war in the enclave. Palestinian sources reported on Friday that Israel had increased aerial and artillery attacks on Rafah while advancing deeper into the southern city. Confirming the operations, the Israeli military stated that its troops were continuing to attack Rafah.

Fierce clashes with Palestinian resistance fighters erupted in the southern part of the city. According to Reuters, Israeli tanks advanced southeast in Rafah and moved towards the western district of Yibna while operating in three eastern suburbs. Residents expressed concern, with one individual, who chose to remain anonymous, stating via a chat app to Reuters, "The occupation (Israeli forces) is trying to move further to the west, they are on the edge of Yibna, which is densely populated. They didn't invade it yet."

Reports of overnight air and naval strikes in Gaza City resulted in several casualties. Fighting also reignited in northern Gaza, where Israel previously claimed to have dismantled the command structure of Palestinian resistance. "We hear nothing but the sound of explosions and gunfire," Mahmud al-Sharif, 31, in the Jabalia refugee camp told AFP. A local source reported helicopters firing at the camp and renewed artillery shelling in the area.

Led by the 99th Division, Amman and Shin Bet, Air Force fighter jets attacked yesterday (Thursday) in the center of the Gaza Strip and killed the terrorist Cia' Al-Din Alsharafa, the deputy commander of national security in the Gaza Strip. As part of his position, he was entrusted with the management of the mechanism that secures the borders of the Gaza Strip. During the war, this mechanism prevented the population from evacuating from combat zones. In addition, during the week, the terrorist Yosef Alshubaki, who served as an operative in the industrial equipment department at the Hamas production headquarters, was attacked and killed in Gaza City. As part of his position, he was responsible for the day-to-day functioning and promotion of the Hamas weapons production headquarters.

The forces of the 98th Division continue to operate in the heart of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip. As part of targeted raids on terrorist infrastructures in the area, the fighters of the 7th, 460th Brigades' combat teams and the paratroopers eliminated dozens of terrorists, destroyed launching positions alongside underground shafts. At the same time, the forces located many weapons, including explosives, mortar bombs, Kalashnikovs, sniper rifles and more. Division 162 continues to operate in the Rafah area. Throughout the last day, the combat teams of the 401st, Givati and Nahal brigades searched for weapons and infrastructure of the terrorist organization Hamas in the area. As part of the searches, the forces located and destroyed ammunition depots along with shafts and other terrorist infrastructure in the area.

The 99th Division forces continue their activities in the center of the Gaza Strip. During the last day, the forces of the division, in cooperation with the Air Force, eliminated a terrorist squad which carried out launches against IDF fighters in the Gaza Strip. The fighters of the 679th Brigade's combat team identified a number of enemy observers near the forces and with the cooperation of Air Force aircraft and tank fire, they eliminated them. In another activity, the forces closed a circle An identified terrorist is firing mortars at the fighters in the area. Last night, two missiles were identified that crossed from the Gaza City area to the southern part of the country and fell in an open area. During the night, an Air Force aircraft attacked the launch site from which the shooting was carried out and destroyed it.

Israeli media reports said that the Israeli army apparently failed in an attempt carried out today, Friday, to assassinate Muhammad Shabana, commander of the Rafah Brigade of the Al-Qassam Brigades , the military wing of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ). Israeli Channel 14 reported that estimates in Israel indicate that the attempt did not succeed. "Israel Today" newspaper said that the army today launched intense attacks on the Shaboura camp in the city of Rafah , south of the Gaza Strip , in order to assassinate Shabana, but his fate is not clear, according to the newspaper. She pointed out that Shabana had two sons who were elite members of Al-Qassam, and they were killed at the beginning of the war, according to the newspaper. The army has suffered losses in soldiers and equipment since the start of its attack on Rafah on May 6, and its forces entered the Jabalia camp in the northern Gaza Strip, where the Palestinian resistance confronted its forces and carried out a series of operations that brought back memories of the first weeks of the war. Al-Qassam Brigades targeted an Israeli foot force after luring it into a precise ambush with a thunder bomb and targeting the rescue forces during their attempt to rescue their members and causing their members to be killed or wounded in Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip. The brigades also targeted three Israeli Merkava 4 tanks with Al-Yassin 105 shells in the vicinity of the Habboub building and the girls school street in the Jabalia camp in the northern Gaza Strip. In the south, the Qassams were on the lookout for Israeli soldiers and vehicles around the Salah al-Din Gate in the city of Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip.

The Quds Brigades, in turn, targeted military concentrations and vehicles penetrating the same city with a barrage of regular sixty-caliber mortar shells. Amidst the heavy losses incurred by the resistance to the occupation soldiers, Al-Qassam launched a huge surprise and announced via a video clip that the commander of the Southern Brigade in the Gaza Division of the Israeli occupation army, Assaf Hamami, who was captured on October 7, is still alive after the occupation held a symbolic funeral for him.

With the phrase 'a leadership leaves its army leaders captive', Al-Qassam sent a veiled message to the Israelis that the occupation leaders do not care about the fate of the prisoners, even if they are army commanders. On the Israeli side, the Hebrew media revealed that military leaders are searching for people through social media platforms to recruit fighters into the Israeli Army, after the army was exhausted in the Gaza battles. The Israeli newspaper Calcalist reported on severe dissatisfaction prevailing among reserve soldiers in the Israeli army due to the long period of service in the Gaza battles. Meanwhile, the American Associated Press said that there is a growing feeling among many Israelis that their army faces nothing but bad choices in the Gaza Strip.

Operational Update - Judea-Samaria

Armed clashes broke out at dawn on Friday after Israeli forces stormed Balata camp in Nablus in the northern West Bank , while Tel Aviv extended the state of emergency in Jenin and its camp. Palestinian sources said that Israeli forces, reinforced with vehicles and bulldozers, stormed the eastern region and Balata camp in Nablus at dawn. The sources added that clashes broke out between Palestinian resistance fighters and the Israeli forces, and the resistance fighters targeted the Israeli forces in the camp with a homemade explosive device.

The Israeli army carried out new incursions into the West Bank at dawn, as part of a continuing escalation since the Palestinian resistance launched the Al-Aqsa Flood Battle last October. Palestinian sources said that the Israeli forces stormed the city of Tulkarm in the northern West Bank, and the Palestinian Red Crescent in the city reported that a Palestinian woman was injured by bullet fragments fired by Israeli soldiers in the village of Qaffin. The Israeli army stormed the village and conducted its patrols through its streets, which led to confrontations erupting between young men and the invading forces, which resulted in the injury of a woman, before it withdrew from the village.

The Israeli forces also stormed the town of Beitunia, west of the city of Ramallah in the central West Bank, and conducted patrols in several neighborhoods. Local sources said that the Israeli soldiers surrounded a house and arrested two young men. The storming of Beitunia comes within the framework of the search for those whom the Israeli authorities describe as their wanted persons.

Meanwhile, Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevy announced the extension of the state of emergency in the city of Jenin and its camp in the West Bank. Halevy's announcement came during a visit to the headquarters of the Israeli forces operating in the vicinity of the city of Jenin. Yesterday morning, the Israeli forces withdrew from the city of Jenin and its camp following a new aggression that lasted two days and resulted in the death of 12 Palestinians, including 4 school students and a doctor.

The Israeli army said that the aim of the large-scale military operation in Jenin was to thwart and prevent the formation of armed Palestinian cells. Since Operation Al-Aqsa Flood , the occupied West Bank has witnessed an escalation in Israeli attacks, which resulted in the death of 514 Palestinians, the injury of 5,000, and the arrest of more than 8,000 others.

Operational Update - Lebanon

The forces of Unit 869 identified terrorists entering a military building in the Maron al-Ras region earlier today. Shortly after the identification, fighter jets of the Air Force attacked the building where the terrorists were staying, next to another military building of the organization in the area of Mis al-Jabal in southern Lebanon. Artillery fire was carried out last night to remove a threat in the Marvin area. Earlier today, the air defense fighters of the Air Force successfully intercepted a suspicious aerial target that made its way to Israel from Lebanese territory.

The Lebanese "Hezbollah" announced today, Friday, that it had targeted the Israeli Al-Malikiyah site with two "Burkan" (heavy) missiles and hit it directly, coinciding with a speech by its Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah. Hezbollah said in a statement: In support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of their valiant and honorable resistance, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance targeted, at 17:20 pm on Friday, May 24, 2024, the Al-Malikiyah site with two Burkan missiles. "They hit him directly."

This targeting coincided with a speech by Nasrallah at the memorial ceremony for the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions, who were killed when their helicopter fell during their return from the Khuda Afrin region in Azerbaijan to the city of Tabriz. Hezbollah issued other statements about its operations against Israel today, stating that in support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of their valiant and honorable resistance:

Today, Friday, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance attacked a Merkava tank in the Shtoula Forest, as a replacement for the tank that was destroyed yesterday, and they targeted it with guided missiles while it was moving, which led to it being hit and destroyed, and its crew members being killed or wounded, and when enemy soldiers were detected moving around the tank. The destroyer was targeted by the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance with artillery shells, and they were hit directly.

In response to the Israeli attacks on the steadfast southern villages and safe civilian homes, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance today, Friday, targeted a building used by enemy soldiers in the Margaliot colony with missile weapons. The Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance, at 15:35 pm this Friday afternoon, targeted the spy equipment at the Bayad Blida site with appropriate weapons and directly hit it, leading to its destruction. At 23:35 on Thursday night, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance targeted a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers at the Sarawat Triangle, opposite the town of Yaron, with missile weapons.

Hezbollah continues to carry out its operations against Israel, since the Hamas movement launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7 and the devastating war on the Gaza Strip that followed. The "party" confirms that it is carrying out these military operations "in support of Gaza" and to create a "support front" against the Israeli army, stressing that stopping its operations "is contingent on the cessation of the aggression against the Gaza Strip."

The government promised the residents of the north a plan to restore the north, but seven months after the outbreak of the war, the vote on the plan was postponed again on 22 May 2024. Only at the beginning of the week Prime Minister Netanyahu promised the heads of authorities in the north: "We have a deadline of 48 hours for a decision and we will finish it immediately". At the cabinet meeting that took place Wednesday, a large plan for the rehabilitation of the north was supposed to come up for approval. However, the government postponed the vote and plan to vote on it only next week - seven months after the outbreak of the war.

The government made quite a few promises to the residents of the north along the way in this matter. For example, Prime Minister Netanyahu told the heads of authorities in the north in January: "In the coming days we will bring the government's decision for the development of the north which is taking shape these days, for a total of NIS 3.5 billion." This week the Prime Minister met again with the heads of the authorities and said: "We have a deadline of 48 hours for a decision and we will finish it immediately."

It should be noted that the plan for the rehabilitation of the north has been significantly increased compared to what was originally planned, but at the same time the government has already promised many programs to the residents of the north and has done nothing about it. During the meeting with the heads of the authorities in the north, which took place on Sunday, Prime Minister Netanyahu was asked "How do you return the evacuated residents?". Netanyahu replied: "I have an orderly plan to return the residents with full security." However, he refused to lay out his plan for the heads of the authorities but promised: "The North will prosper."

In an official statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office after the meeting, Netanyahu refused to specify the date of the residents' return to their homes: "I am not going to tell Hezbollah what we are going to do. I do not share with our sworn enemy the dates and exactly how we will do it. With tricks you will make peace and security, but also war.' He added: "We are committed to restoring security, and we will do it. Right now we will solve the things you raised. If we stand by all these things, the north will flourish, this is going to happen in the south and it will happen in the north as well.'

The Israeli government appeared to be in a race against time to return the residents of the northern settlements to them before next September 1, the opening date of the school season, a date imposed by political bidding between the camps of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his opponents, which turned it into a pressure factor on the government and the settlers alike. With the absence of solutions, or attempts to impose them on Lebanon in a way that guarantees the security of the northern region and separates the southern front from the Gaza front, Netanyahu entered the realm of threats, even though the events of the past seven months forced his government to submit to a war of attrition according to specific rules. The Israeli military and political establishment would not adhere to it. If military options were available to it, in his visit to the headquarters of the Northern Command of the occupation army yesterday, Netanyahu, in the presence of the Commander of the Northern Command and the commanders of the 91st, 36th and 146th Divisions, threatened that Israel has detailed, important, and even surprising plans to deal with Hezbollah, indicating that These plans have two goals: restoring security in the north and allowing civilians to return to their homes, stressing the determination to achieve both goals together. In the context of the bidding with Netanyahu, Israeli War Council member Benny Gantz was more precise when he set a deadline to suppress the northern front by force or by settlement. He said during his meeting with the intelligence services in the north to review the operational developments in the northern arena, The prime minister must present The plan to strengthen the north is to be approved today, not postponed for an additional day. At the same time, we are preparing from today to return the residents to their homes safely until September 1, by force or by settlement. We must not allow another lost year in the North. The two statements reflect the Israeli confusion regarding the available options necessary to deal with the reality imposed by Hezbollah in the north. With the escalation of qualitative operations and the emergence of the power and effectiveness of drone weapons on the one hand, and the handing over of the parties working on the Beirut intimidation line to separate the southern Lebanon front from the Gaza front as impossible, and the Americans and the French being convinced that the prelude to calm in the north is calm in Gaza, the pressure is increasing on Netanyahu as September 1 approaches.

Operational Update - Syria / Iraq

Tonight (Thursday), fighter jets intercepted two unmanned aerial vehicles that made their way to the territory of Israel from the east, and two unmanned aerial vehicles that made their way to the northern area of the country. In addition to this, the air defense fighters successfully intercepted a suspicious aerial target moving towards Israel from Lebanese territory in the early hours of the morning. Fighter planes, along with the air defense systems and the control system, continue to operate within Israel's borders 24/7. The Air Force will continue to act to thwart any terrorist plot as part of the mission of protecting the country's skies.

Operational Update - Yemen

Yemen's Ansarullah leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, has lauded President Ebrahim Raisi as a symbol of honor for the Islamic Ummah (community) and a courageous defender of Iran and Islamic nations. In a televised address on Thursday, Houthi expressed solidarity, stating, "We share the grief of the martyrdom of the President of Iran, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and their comrades." Distinguishing Raisi's leadership, Houthi remarked, "Many leaders speak in a tone that always takes into account what might anger the Americans, but Ayatollah Raisi was different from the rest of the leaders and spoke with a clear and bold voice regardless of American pressure and stood out from the others."

The Yemeni Armed Forces announced the implementation of 3 qualitative operations on 3 ships in the Red and Arabian Seas, and for the first time, striking a ship in the Mediterranean Sea. In a statement read by the Armed Forces spokesman during the million-man march that took place in Al-Sabeen Square in support of Palestine, this afternoon, under the slogan (With Gaza... stability of the position and continuity of jihad), Brigadier General Yahya Saree explained: The Yemeni Armed Forces : targeting the Israeli ship (MSC ALEXANDRA) at sea. Al-Arabi with a number of ballistic missiles.

He stated that the Yemeni armed forces targeted the YANNIS ship belonging to a Greek company as it was passing through the Red Sea as part of the fourth stage of escalation. The Armed Forces indicated that the targeting of the ship belonging to the Greek company came after the arrival of 3 ships belonging to the company to the ports of occupied Palestine on (4-5) of May. For the first time, the Armed Forces announced that the Israeli ship ESSEX was targeted with a number of missiles in the Mediterranean Sea, explaining that the ship was targeted while it was violating the decision to ban entry to the ports of occupied Palestine.

The Yemeni Armed Forces warned all companies that deal with the Israeli entity that their ships, regardless of their destination, would be targeted. It stressed that it will continue with full determination to implement the fourth phase of escalation as a victory for the oppression of the Palestinian people until the aggression stops and the siege on Gaza is lifted.

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 European Union's foreign affairs chief, Josep Borrell, has said that the bloc faces a "difficult" choice between its support for the rule of law and its support for Israel, just minutes after the ICJ ruled Israeli forces should halt their offensive in Rafah. Speaking during a European University Institute (EUI) event in Florence, Borrell said: "Let's see which is going to be the action of the European Union to the ruling of the International Court of Justice that has been issued today, which is going to be our position?" "We will have to choose between our support to the international institutions and the rule of law, or our support to Israel, and both things is (sic) going to be quite difficult to make compatible," he added.

Axis of Resistance

Despite the severe damage, Hamas is expected to recruit terrorists to replenish its ranks.

Allied for Democracy

The Hebrew newspaper "Haaretz" quoted experts in international law that the laxity of the law enforcement apparatus in Israel contributed to the crisis before the international courts, and that the statements of Israeli figures were the basis for the decisions of the international courts. The newspaper adds that the law enforcement system in Israel failed due to the failure to open investigations with officials who incited the targeting of civilians, while one of them says, In Israel they do not investigate or prosecute, but rather legitimize military methods to destroy civilian areas and starve the population to achieve the goals of the war.

For its part, the Hebrew newspaper "The Times of Israel" said that Israel needs to make difficult decisions regarding the management of the Gaza Strip after the war, pointing out that it has few good options. The newspaper saw that the Hamas movement is regrouping its ranks after months of bloody fighting and regaining its ability to attack Israel, and that "the gains achieved at the beginning of the military operation thanks to the aerial bombardment have turned into a grinding conflict against an adaptable insurgency."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finds himself increasingly isolated on the global stage, amid various legal challenges and tension in global public opinion, according to an analysis by the American newspaper  The Washington Post . The International Court of Justice, the highest judicial body of the United Nations, announced on Friday its decision regarding South Africas request to order Israel to cease fire in Gaza, including the military operation in Rafah, located in the far south of the Strip.

According to the newspaper, Israeli officials are challenging the possible decision, pledging to continue the war, but legal pressure is mounting, as the International Court of Justice is also studying a lawsuit filed by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide, while the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is seeking to issue arrest warrants against officials. Earlier this week, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan, announced that he was seeking arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Galant on charges of crimes including starvation, premeditated murder, and premeditated murder. Extermination and/or killing. The prosecutor also requested the issuance of arrest warrants against 3 leaders of the Hamas movement, which is classified as a terrorist organization in the United States and other countries.

The International Court of Justice, the highest judicial body of the United Nations, announced on Friday its decision on South Africas request to order Israel to cease fire in Gaza. Netanyahu and a number of Israeli officials described these developments as a scandal, according to the Washington Post. US President Joe Biden and a group of American lawmakers also expressed their rejection of equality between Israel and Hamas, in the request of the International Criminal Prosecutor.

But according to the newspaper, the fastest development this week was the announcement by Spain, Ireland, and Norway of officially recognizing the Palestinian state, regardless of whether establishing a state is something that can be implemented on the ground. The newspaper quoted the Spanish Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albarez, as saying, The main reason that other countries in the West realize the need to support the two-state principle in any way possible is that the right-wing government of Israel, led by Netanyahu, fundamentally opposes talk about establishing a Palestinian state.

According to the Washington Post, all of these developments may strengthen Netanyahus position, as the prime minister has long mocked anti-Israel tendencies in United Nations agencies and says his country is a victim of global anti-Semitism. This is also confirmed by the newspaper, Yonatan Freeman, a specialist in international relations at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, who says: This really reinforces the narrative that we have heard since the first day of this war, which says that in the end we can only rely on ourselves. He added: "I think this can help the Israeli government explain and describe what it is doing in this war."

After Ireland, Spain and Norway announced on Wednesday that they would recognize a Palestinian state on May 28, Israel summoned the ambassadors of the three countries, while media outlets wondered about the move and its repercussions on other European countries. On the other hand, Amos Harel, an Israeli journalist in the Haaretz newspaper, said that the matter is not only about dissipating the international appreciation that was given to Israel after it was subjected to a brutal attack on October 7, as the development of events demonstrates the global standing and diplomatic skills of Netanyahu himself. He continued: "The man who claims to be a statesman is unable to achieve the strategic goals he set for this war, which implicates Israel in troubles that will haunt the state and its citizens for many years, beyond the direct natural consequences of the massacre committed by Hamas."

The Washington Post also quoted former US defense official Andrew Exum as saying, In the seven months following the horrific October 7 attacks, the gap between how Israel defines its security needs and how the world defines those same needs has widened as never before. ". Therefore, the Biden administration is looking forward to Israel taking the complex path it is trying to build, through a tripartite agreement between Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, which would see the normalization of relations, within a package that includes major defense and security incentives from Washington to Riyadh, and Israels commitment By reviving a process leading to a two-state solution, something Netanyahu seems unwilling to do at all.

Operation Iron Swords - By the Numbers

1,900,000 IDPs in Gaza

80,200 Gazans injured, 28% adult male

70,000 tons of explosives dropped on Gaza

70,000 Gaza housing units completely destroyed

70,000 Israeli IDPs from Lebanon border

45,000 bombs dropped in Gaza

45,000 Gazans killed, including buried under rubble

35,857 Gazans martyred

33,000 Gaza targets attacked

20,528 Palestinians in Israeli prisons [Haaretz, 20 Mar 2024]

15,140 Israelis injured [i24 TV]

15,000 terror operatives killed in Gaza [Israeli officials]

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

9,400 Palestinians in Israeli prisons

9,000 IDF needing psychological assistance

8,665 arrested by Israelis in the West Bank since Oct.7th

7,209 IDF injured admitted to rehabilitation [IDF]

6,800 IDF officers and soldiers injured [Channel 12]

6,000 HAMAS combatants killed [HAMAS]

5,500 IDF wounded [reports]

4,800 West Bank Palestinians wounded

4,700 sites targetted in Lebanon

3,850 wanted persons arrested throughout Judea and Samaria

3,600 administrative detainees

3,188 IDF wounded [IDF]

2,100 Gazan women are missing

1,609 terrorists killed on the first day

1,650 wanted persons arrested throughout Judea and Samaria affiliated with Hamas

1,160 Israelis killed on the first day

620 Israeli officers and soldiers killed since the start of the war

514 West Bank Palestinians martyred

364 people [including fighters] killed in Lebanon

274 Israeli officers and soldiers killed in Gaza

240 Hezbollah fighters killed in Lebanon

126 people recovered, including 91 Israelis, 11 bodies, and 24 foreign workers

116 living hostages in Palestinian custody

70 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.

Some reports claimed that the UN cut in half its earlier estimates of women and children killed in Gaza. Initially, they reported 9,500 women and 14,500 children killed, but later revised it to 4,959 women and 7,797 children on 08 May 2024. The UN acknowledged its inability to independently verify casualty figures. The seeming discrepancy is that HAMAS had about 10K KIA bodies on hand for which they do not have positive ID. It is possible to report the gender and approximate age [ie, juvenile] without knowing the name of the deceased.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 23 May 2024 - Day 820

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A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that on 19 May 2024, Ukrainian forces conducted a coordinated long-range attack on the Russian port of Sevastopol. The attack, which highly likely included a combination of one-way attack drones and Army Tactical missile system (ATACM) missiles almost certainly resulted in the sinking of the KARAKURT-Class Corvette 'TSIKLON'.

'TSIKLON' is one of four Russian KALIBR-capable KARAKURT-Class vessels that have operated in the Black Sea since 2022. Two of these vessels have likely been transferred to the Caspian Sea to complete sea trials safely following a series of successful Ukrainian attacks. The fourth vessel of the group was previously heavily damaged in a Ukrainian attack in November 2023.

Although this is unlikely to significantly change the impact the Russian Navy is having on Ukrainian operations, it does highlight a continued danger to Russian forces operating in the Crimea and Black Sea region and continued Ukrainian success when conducting coordinated strikes.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that since the beginning of the day, there have been 88 combat clashes. Russian occupiers launched three missile strikes with the use of 13 rockets, 37 air strikes with 47 KABs, 387 kamikaze drones strikes, carrying out about three thousand shelling positions of Ukrainian troops from different types of weapons, including 109 from reactive systems of arsenal.

In the Kharkiv direction since the beginning of the day, there have been four combat clashes. Russian occupiers actively applied aviation for strikes. In response, Ukrainian soldiers held countermeasures, as a result of which caused the zagarbnikam tangible losses.

Previously, the total Russian losses in this direction were 65 people. Also Ukrainian soldiers destroyed an enemy tank, RSZV BM-21 Grad, two trucks and two units of special equipment. In addition, a Russian tank, two cannons and two cars were damaged.

In the Kupiansky direction, the number of combat clashes per day has reached 20. To date, the Russian occupiers have already confirmed lost 100 people killed and wounded and 69 units of various armaments and military equipment. The countdown is on. In addition, the blind and two ammunition warehouses have been destroyed

Five Russian attacks near the villages of Tern and Torske were successfully repelled in the Lyman direction.

At the beginning of the day, the attack of the zagarbnikiv in the area of bilogorivka on the sivers komu direction was repelled. There was no loss of positions.

In the Kramators komu direction, there are currently fighting in the area of Andriyivka. The situation is under control.

Intensely attacked the Russian enemy of Ukrainian defenders in the Pokrovsky direction. Here, throughout the day, supported by aviation and artillery, the Russian aggressor made 22 attacks. A tense situation in the areas of umans kogo and novoselivka. Defense forces are taking measures to stabilize the situation. In other areas, Russian zagarbniki were stopped and suffered losses. For today, in this direction, they have collected: 250 occupants killed and wounded, a Su-25 aircraft destroyed, an armored car, a car and two ammunition warehouses. In addition, damaged a tank, one BBM and a car.

In the Pridniprovsky direction, the Russian occupiers tried nine times to push Ukrainian units out of the Krynyok district. In the course of the battles Russian zagarbniki had no success.

In other directions, the situation has not changed significantly. Controlled.

Ukrainian soldiers actively apply the means of fire impact on Russian enemy live force and equipment. Measures to equip the defense borders, destroy the opponent and improve the tactical position are carried out in designated directions.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that units of the Sever Group of Forces continue advancing to the depth of the enemy's defences.

Losses were inflicted on manpower and hardware of the AFU 125th Mechanised Brigade and 112th Territorial Defence Brigade near Konstantinovka and Granov (Kharkov region).

Two counter-attacks launched by the enemy's assault detachments were repelled near Glubokoye and Volchansk (Kharkov region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 365 Ukrainian troops, one tank, and two armoured fighting vehicles.

In the course of counter-battery warfare, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, and one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 howitzer were neutralised.

Units of the Zapad Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 14th, 21st, and 66th mechanised brigades near Nevskoye (Lugansk People's Republic), Ivanovka, and Novosadovoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

Four counter-attacks launched by the AFU assault detachments were repelled near Novovodyanoye, Belogorovka (Lugansk People's Republic), and Grigorovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 320 Ukrainian troops, two armoured personnel carriers, including one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, and two motor vehicles.

In the course of counter-battery warfare, two 152-mm Msta-B howitzers, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, and two 122-mm Grad MLRS combat vehicles were neutralised.

As a result of active actions, units of the Yug Group of Forces liberated Andreyevka (Donetsk People's Republic), improved the tactical situation along the front line, and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 57th Mechanised Brigade, 105th, and 118th territorial defence brigades near Konstantinovka, Razdolovka and Chasov Yar (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to more than 490 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm Giatsint-B howitzer, four 152-mm D-20 howitzers, and one UK-made 105-mm L-119 howitzer.

Units of the Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 68th Jaeger Brigade and 24th Mechanised Brigade near Semyonovka and Novgorodskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

Five counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 71st Jaeger Brigade, 47th, and 110th mechanised brigades were repelled near Ocheretino, Solovyovo, and Umanskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 405 Ukrainian troops, four armoured fighting vehicles, including three U.S.-made MaxxPro armoured personnel carriers, and six motor vehicles.

In the course of counter-battery warfare, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, 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, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, and two U.S.-made 105-mm M102 light towed howitzers were neutralised.

Units of the Vostok Group of Forces took more advantageous lines, as well as inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 128th Territorial Defence Brigade near Makarovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 120 Ukrainian troops, two infantry fighting vehicles, six motor vehicles, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, and one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

One U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare station was destroyed.

Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 37th Marines Brigade and 65th Mechanised Brigade near Veseloye (Kherson region) and Rabotino (Zaporozhye region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 40 Ukrainian troops, two motor vehicles, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and one 122-mm Grad MLRS combat vehicle.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces engaged AFU manpower and hardware clusters in 112 areas during the day.

Air defence units shot down 53 unmanned aerial vehicles, six U.S.-made ATACMS operational-tactical missiles, three French-made Hammer guided aerial bombs, four U.S.-made HARM anti-radiation missiles, 47 U.S.-made HIMARS, Czech-made Vampire, and Olkha MLRS projectiles.

In total, 601 airplanes and 274 helicopters, 24,551 unmanned aerial vehicles, 523 air defence missile systems, 16,134 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,310 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 9,771 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 21,935 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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IS turns to artificial intelligence for advanced propaganda amid territorial defeats

By Sirwan Kajjo May 23, 2024

With major military setbacks in recent years, supporters of the Islamic State terror group are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) to generate online propaganda, experts said.

A new form of propaganda developed by IS supporters is broadcasting news bulletins with AI-generated anchors in multiple languages.

The Islamic State Khorasan (ISKP) group, an IS affiliate active in Afghanistan and Pakistan, produced in a video an AI-generated anchorman to appear reading news following an IS-claimed attack in Bamiyan province in Afghanistan on May 17 that killed four people, including three Spanish tourists.

The digital image posing as an anchor spoke the Pashto language and had features resembling local residents in Bamiyan, according to The Khorasan Diary, a website dedicated to news and analysis on the region.

Another AI-generated propaganda video by Islamic State appeared on Tuesday with a different digital male news anchor announcing IS's responsibility for a car bombing in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

"These extremists are very effective in spreading deepfake propaganda," said Roland Abi Najem, a cybersecurity expert based in Kuwait.

He told VOA that a group like IS was already effective in producing videos with Hollywood-level quality, and the use of AI has made such production more accessible for them.

"AI now has easy tools to use to create fake content whether it's text, photo, audio or video," Abi Najem said, adding that with AI, "you only need data, algorithms and computing power, so anyone can create AI-generated content from their houses or garages."

IS formally began using the practice of AI-generated news bulletins four days after an attack at a Moscow music hall on March 22 killed some 145 people. The attack was claimed by IS.

In that video, IS used a "fake" AI-generated news anchor talking about the Moscow attack, experts told The Washington Post last week.

Mona Thakkar, a research fellow at the International Center for the Study of Violent Extremism, said pro-IS supporters have been using character-generation techniques and text-to-speech AI tools to produce translated news bulletins of IS's Amaq news agency.

"These efforts have garnered positive responses from other users, reflecting that, through future collaborative efforts, many supporters could produce high quality and sophisticated AI-powered propaganda videos for IS of longer durations with better graphics and more innovation techniques," she told VOA.

Thakkar said she recently came across some pro-IS Arabic-speaking supporters on Telegram who were recommending to other supporters "that beginners use AI image generator bots on Telegram to maintain the high quality of images as the bots are very easy and quick to produce such images."

AI-generated content for recruitment

While IS's ability to project power largely decreased due to its territorial defeat in Syria and Iraq, experts say supporters of the terror group believe artificial intelligence offers an alternative to promote their extremist ideology.

"Their content has mainly focused on showing that they're still powerful," said Abi Najem. "With AI-generated content now, they can choose certain celebrities that have influence, especially on teenagers, by creating deepfake videos."

"So first they manipulate these people by creating believable content, then they begin recruiting them," he said.

In a recent article published on the Global Network on Extremism and Technology, researcher Daniel Siegel said generative AI technology has had a profound impact on how extremist organizations engage in influence operations online, including the use of AI-generated Muslim religious songs, known as nasheeds, for recruitment purposes.

"The strategic deployment of extremist audio deepfake nasheeds, featuring animated characters and internet personalities, marks a sophisticated evolution in the tactics used by extremists to broaden the reach of their content," he wrote.

Siegel said that other radical groups like al-Qaida and Hamas have also begun using AI to generate content for their supporters.

Cybersecurity expert Abi Najem said he believes the cheap technology will increase the availability of AI-generated content by extremist groups on the internet.

"While currently there are no stringent regulations on the use of AI, it will be very challenging for governments to stop extremist groups from exploiting these platforms for their own gain," he said.

This story originated in VOA's Kurdish Service.

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Call for innovative pitches to optimise the soldier for littoral operations

Issued by Defence Media

23 May 2024

The Australian Army is calling on defence industry and academia to pitch innovative capabilities to optimise the soldier for littoral operations as part of Army Innovation Day 2024 (AID24).

AID24 is a strategic collaboration between the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) and the Australian Army.

Each year, Army Innovation Day poses a new challenge to encourage the development of innovative technologies to solve some of Army's most complex challenges for the benefit of soldiers.

Hosted by the Australian Army as part of the Chief of Army Symposium, AID24 will be held during the Land Forces 2024 International Land Defence Exposition in Melbourne on 11 and 12 September 2024.

Head Land Capability, Major General Richard Vagg, said the challenge statement: Optimising the Soldier for Littoral Operations was chosen to support the rapid delivery of capability into the hands of soldiers under National Defence.

"As a part of an integrated, focused force, the Australian Army must be capable of deterring a potential adversary from projecting force against Australia and make a credible contribution to the broader strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific," Major General Vagg said.

"Our soldiers make Army a formidable fighting force and are our most valuable asset."

This year's theme will help Army explore how innovative technologies can enhance the operational endurance, tactical lethality and survivability of soldiers operating in increasingly complex, distributed, regional and littoral environments.

"There is an emphasis on getting capability into the hands of soldiers faster," Major General Vagg said.

Since Army Innovation Day's inception in 2014, 51 contracts have been awarded to defence industry.

Industry and academia with an Australian Business Number are encouraged to submit pitches to AID24.

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May 23, 2024

Release

2024 U.S.-Australia Defense Policy and Strategy Talks

Department of Defense Spokesperson Lt. Col. Martin Meiners provided the following readout:

Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Ely Ratner and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Capabilities Madeline Mortelmans co-chaired the U.S.-Australia Defense Policy and Strategy Talks (DPST) at the Pentagon today.

The two U.S. officials hosted their Australian counterparts, First Assistant Secretary of Defence for International Policy Bernard Philip and First Assistant Secretary of Defence for Strategic Policy Sheridan Kearnan, to discuss growing defense cooperation between the United States and Australia.

The officials had robust discussions on their countries' respective strategic approaches to defense in the Indo-Pacific, the regional security environment, progress on U.S.-Australia force posture initiatives, multilateral approaches to regional security challenges, and defense industrial base cooperation.

The DPST is the premier defense policy dialogue for the U.S.-Australia alliance to address shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond by ensuring close coordination and promoting the alignment of strategic guidance.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3786786/

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'Lukashenka's Revenge': Nearly Four Years After Mass Protests, State Crackdown Still Reshaping Belarus

By RFE/RL's Belarus Service, Anna Sous and Robert Coalson May 23, 2024

Belarusian opposition politician Ihar Lednik was arrested in Minsk on April 18, 2022. After two weeks in custody, he was charged with "slandering the president of the Republic of Belarus." He was held for months in pretrial custody, with lawyers complaining that his health was deteriorating.

In September 2022, Lednik's trial began, with prosecutors contending an article he'd published contained "deliberately false, defamatory, and degrading information about [Belarusian leader Alyaksandr] Lukashenka's honor and dignity." Four days later, Judge Tatsyana Shotsik pronounced the verdict -- guilty -- and sentenced him to three years in prison.

This February, Lednik was rushed from a prison in Babruysk, about 100 kilometers southeast of the capital, to a Minsk hospital. He died there on February 20, at the age of 63.

"I met Ihar in the spring of 2023," Alyaksey Haloukin, who was also serving time on dissent-related charges, said. "Ihar said his health was deteriorating and if he wasn't given medical help...he would not survive his term. And that is what happened."

Lednik's case is emblematic of the fundamental changes that have been under way in Belarus since Lukashenka claimed a landslide victory and a sixth term in an August 2020 election that millions of Belarusians say he stole. The harsh crackdown against pro-democracy protesters that began on election day has been institutionalized into a regime of constant intimidation and fear that many observers say seems to be driven by Lukashenka's personal sense of humiliation.

"They probably can't jail everyone because they lack sufficient space," said Uladzimer Zhyhar, a former police investigator with BelPol, a group uniting former security officers who quit in response to the repression. "We aren't talking about 250,000 or 300,000 people. The number is more than 2 million at least. They start with the most active people. Then they go after anyone who did not support Lukashenka. Any form of dissent is equated with treason."

"This represents Lukashenka's retaliation for being rejected in 2020," Zhyhar concluded.

Belarusian Nobel Prize laureate Svetlana Alexievich said the goal of the authorities was "to intimidate and humiliate, to make people incapable of resistance or even the thought of resistance."

"It's all revenge," she said, "the revenge of the leader, Lukashenka's revenge for the fear he endured, for the fact that the people turned out to be completely different from what he imagined."

"I think the people will not forget this humiliation, this historical trauma, for a very long time," she added.

Over a six-month period, RFE/RL's Belarus Service interviewed dozens of released prisoners, former security officers, human rights activists, and others for a podcast series, The Belag Archipelago, documenting how Lukashenka's government has created an atmosphere of pervasive fear by relentlessly seeking out and persecuting participants in and supporters of the largest anti-government protests in Belarusian history. The full series, with English subtitles, is available here.

The Belarusian human rights group Vyasna has documented some 55,000 cases of repression since the start of the presidential election campaign in 2020. At least 4,500 people have received criminal convictions, and Vyasna has designated about 1,500 of them as political prisoners. In January 2023, the Parliamentary Assembly of Europe estimated that between 200,000 and 500,000 Belarusians had fled the country of 9.5 million since the election.

'Just Vulnerability'

The announcement of the contested results of the August 2020 election sparked more than three months of nationwide pro-democracy protests, with hundreds of thousands of people demanding Lukashenka's resignation and a new election. Many contended that opposition candidate Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya was the actual winner.

The government responded with an often-brutal crackdown. Several people were killed and by September 1, 2020, the United Nations had recorded 450 cases of "torture and ill-treatment," as well as reports of "sexual abuse and rape with rubber batons," as at least 6,700 people were detained.

Nearly four years later, the crackdown continues, with dissidents being shuffled in and out of the grip of law enforcement.

"The doorbell rang for 40 minutes," Hanna Vishnyak said, describing her arrest in October 2020. "I thought they were going to break down the door, so I opened it. As soon as I did, they kicked me in the gut.... They stormed in and started confiscating things."

Vishnyak was a volunteer with Voditeli 97, a Telegram channel that coordinated people with cars to distribute water and other supplies to demonstrators during the protests. She served 2 1/2 years for purportedly "organizing actions violating public order."

Such conduct by the police is the norm, Zhyhar says.

"Their objective is to intimidate, to break the will of detainees, and assert dominance," he explained. "Once you fall into their hands, there is no law, no rights -- just vulnerability. Everything happens behind closed doors -- in cars, prison vans, and trucks. You become a powerless person without rights, subject to their whims."

Valeria Charnamortsava, a researcher on the crimes of Soviet dictator Josef Stalin and a co-creator of the Virtual Museum of Soviet Repression in Belarus, was detained at her home on October 18, 2022.

"They began looking for 'extremist materials' and laying out various books," she recalled. "They found a red-and-white umbrella. I had tried to be prepared, but it's difficult to find everything in an apartment where I've lived for 25 years."

After more than three months in pretrial detention, Charnamortsava was sentenced to 2 1/2 years of house arrest for allegedly "participating in mass disorder."

'I Didn't Think I'd Make It Out'

Arrests are carried out both by the Interior Ministry's Main Directorate for Combating Organized Crime and Corruption (HUBAZiK) and by the State Security Committee (KGB).

"There's a big difference," said Alyaksandr Azarau, the director of ByPol. "We have not heard of cases of the KGB using physical violence and beating detainees. They are the 'white-collar workers' of Lukashenka's structure. But HUBAZiK officers are butchers, so to speak, who are drenched in blood up to their elbows."

Those arrested by HUBAZiK are often given 15-day administrative sentences for "petty hooliganism," usually on the accusation that the detainee "provoked law enforcement officers."

Such a 15-day sentence "turns into 15 days of torture in inhumane conditions," Azarau said.

Former police officer Zhyhar said detention conditions for political prisoners since 2020 had been "made as uncomfortable as possible...absolutely deliberately."

Mikalay Zayats, a former press officer for the Kupala National Theater in Minsk, was detained in March 2023.

"For political detainees, special conditions of detention are created," he told RFE/RL, describing his time at Minsk's notorious Akrestsina remand prison. "We weren't allowed to take a shower. We didn't have any exercise time. We had overcrowded cells. We slept on the floor. I was at Akrestsina for about a month, and frankly, I didn't think I would make it out."

Anastasia Bulybenka was first arrested on November 12, 2020, and was later sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison. After her release in 2023, she was again arrested and held in Akrestsina for 30 days.

"Thirty days is terrible," she said. "The food servings are small, simply not enough. At first I didn't eat anything, but after I was given a second 15-day sentence, I ate and even asked for more.... But it wasn't enough, and I came out quite thin."

"There are bugs," she continued. "They don't turn out the lights at night. It is torture through lack of sleep.... They wake you up twice during the night to distort your biological rhythms. If it's hot, they turn off the air conditioning. If it's cold, they turn it on. I cried a lot at Akrestsina."

Some Belarusians arrested for opposing the state are held in pretrial detention at Minsk Detention Center No. 1 in the Pishchalauski Castle, familiarly called Valadarka from the Soviet-era name of the street where it is located. Valadarka is best known as Belarus's death row, where prisoners condemned to death are held and executions are carried out.

"We had a political prisoner in our cell, a former security officer," said Aleh Hruzdzilovich, a journalist with RFE/RL's Belarus Service who spent nearly a year in custody before being released on pardon in September 2022. "As soon as he appeared, he said that he would immediately be placed in solitary confinement. And he was. Why? Because the prison head learned that he was a former officer.... So they took him away, and we never saw him again."

'A Kind Of Bait'

Although many of those arrested in politically charged cases are sentenced to prison, others are given various forms of house arrest or "restricted liberty," punishment that activists say allows for persistent oversight and humiliation at the hands of the state.

"You are at home, surrounded by your bed and your belongings," said Syarhey Drazdouski, who led an NGO that assisted disabled people before it was shut down in August 2021 and who spent about six months under house arrest in a dormitory. "But the police and the authorities have every opportunity to make this unbearable. You are forbidden to communicate with anyone except your investigator and your lawyer. Doctors are allowed if you need them."

"If you break the rules, you can be given a harsher sentence," he said.

Lawyer Illya Saley spent about six months under house arrest in 2020-21.

"In my case, house arrest was around the clock," he recalled. "I was not allowed to leave my apartment. I lived there alone, so none of my family members were with me or had the right to visit me. All the information I got came from my lawyers, who not only served as lawyers, but also brought me food and took away my trash. I was allowed to watch state television."

Nobel laureate Alexievich describes such house arrest as a form of torture.

"House arrest is a means of humiliation, but a sophisticated one," she said. "Sitting in one's house, not going outside for six months is humiliation, mockery."

Some convicts are handed a kind of sentence colloquially known as "chemistry," under which they are required to work at assigned jobs in "open-type" correctional facilities. The name comes from the Soviet-era practice of sending such people to dangerous work in the chemical industry. Now they are generally given low-skilled work, including on collective farms. There are 29 open-type correctional facilities in Belarus.

Former IT worker Viktar Parkhimchyk was sentenced in January 2021 to two years of "restricted liberty" in the northern village of Sushki, about 175 kilometers from Minsk. He worked, often 18 hours a day, as a cattle breeder on a collective farm for 300 rubles ($90) a month.

"You can see the results of this forced labor in Belarus -- relatively cheap milk and other goods," he said. "Among my duties were helping cows give birth, trimming their hooves...and other jobs I didn't understand anything about."

"There are usually very bad living conditions for people on 'chemistry,'" said Vyasna activist Natallya Satsunkevich. "There are rooms for six, eight, 10 people in which they live for a year or two or three. There is no personal space. There is hard, physical work. Of course, there is no communication with family, relatives, or friends. It is very difficult psychologically."

Still others are sentenced to so-called "home chemistry," where they are allowed to continue working at their regular place of employment while sending up to a quarter of their earnings to the state. Such people are not allowed to leave their homes on the weekends or holidays. They are subject to inspection at any time without warning, either at home or at work. If such a person does not have a job, one is assigned to them that they must accept.

Zhyhar says the use of "home chemistry" is on the rise in Belarus as a measure to keep the most active people in society monitored and isolated.

"In some cases, this is used to keep a person free but under constant control," he added. "Perhaps, through this person, they can locate other people who haven't been found yet.... It's a kind of bait."

'A Sink And A Toilet Hole'

Many of those who have been arrested since the 2020 protests have served time in prisons, including the strict-regime prisons at Zhodzina (No. 8), Mahilyou (No. 4), and Hrodna (No. 1). The country's best known political prisoners -- including Syarhey Tsikhanouski, a popular would-be 2020 presidential challenger who is the husband of now-exiled democratic opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and banker and would-be presidential candidate Viktar Babaryka -- are kept isolated in these prisons for years with virtually no contact with the outside world.

"They just break people there," said one former prisoner who asked not to identified. "The prison in Zhodzina is simply hell on Earth."

In response to rumors that Tsikhanouski had died in the Zhodzina prison, the authorities released a video of him in July 2023.

"I barely recognized him in that video," Tsikhanouskaya told RFE/RL. "A completely different person. Only after I watched a few times and saw how he moved was I sure it was him. I can't imagine how hard it is for him. And there are thousands of people like Syarhey in prison."

On July 11, 2023, artist Ales Pushkin, who was serving a five-year sentence for purportedly desecrating state symbols and inciting hatred, died at a hospital after being urgently transferred from Prison No. 1 in Hrodna. He had been denied timely treatment for a perforated ulcer, according to Vyasna. He was 57.

Many of the most prominent prisoners are kept in solitary cells known by the acronym ShYZA.

"Day and night you are in a cell about 1 1/2 meters wide and 3 meters long," said former political prisoner Natallya Hershe, a Belarusian-Swiss dual citizen who was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison for participating in the 2020 protests and was released in February 2022 after Switzerland agreed to return its ambassador to Minsk.

"There's a sink and a toilet hole. When you go there, you remove all your clothes. They gave you an old uniform. You are allowed some soap, toothpaste and a toothbrush, toilet paper, and a hand towel. There is no mattress, no pillows, no blankets. There are no walks. You spend 24 hours a day in that narrow room."

"It is impossible to sleep," she continued. "You can't lie down during the day. You can pace, or you can sit on the table."

"The administrations of various prisons are actively using ShYZA against political prisoners," said Vyasna activist Satsunkevich. "And it is illegal."

Rights monitors say at least 11 politically repressed people have died in custody since 2020, including Pushkin and Lednik. Most of them were denied medical care until it was too late.

Volha Harbunova, a former prisoner who is a member of Tsikhanouskaya's opposition United Transitional Cabinet, said at least 200 political prisoners in Belarus are currently in need of urgent medical care.

"But, in fact, the health of all of the prisoners has deteriorated," she said. "Everyone has big problems. Among the political prisoners are many people from vulnerable social groups -- the elderly, people with disabilities or chronic health issues or psychological diagnoses. There are cases of people being sent to prison with Stage 4 cancer, brain tumors, or in need of urgent operations. These are real political prisoners who are now in the clutches of the regime."

Life After Prison

The ordeal of Belarus's repressed dissidents does not end after they are released from custody or other punishment.

"You don't go free when you get out of jail or prison," Harbunova said. "You end up in the new prison that the entire country has turned into."

"When I was arrested in 2021, I said, 'I will not leave Belarus; let them leave,'" said former prisoner and human rights activist Leanid Sudalenka. "But now things have changed. I understood that it was only a matter of time before new criminal charges were brought against me. It was a difficult decision."

Like many released prisoners, Sudalenka left Belarus; he is now living in Lithuania.

Another former prisoner, who asked not to be identified, explained his decision to emigrate.

"They put me on parole for two years," he said, adding that he had to report to local police every Sunday. "Nonetheless, the cops came two or three times a week. It was very unpleasant, even worse than when I was on 'chemistry.'"

Volha Klaskouskaya also made the decision to leave.

"After I was released, it was hell," she recalled. "A sword of Damocles was hanging over me constantly. Security officers came to my home. I was summoned to the police.... I understood I would not be allowed to live peacefully in Belarus. It was only a matter of time before I was back in prison. So I decided to leave immediately."

"These people are still under control," said former police officer Zhyhar. "They can be detained again at any moment. If a person is detained again and again, it is a hint from the system that they should leave."

In January, another hint came. The authorities began arresting the relatives of political prisoners. In some cases, entire families were detained. Vyasna said at least 160 people were detained on January 23. Many of them were detained for accepting help from a nongovernmental organization that provides food and other supplies to the relatives of those affected by the repressions.

"As if unjustly imprisoning scores of critics and protesters was not enough, the Belarusian authorities are now targeting their families," said Marie Struthers, the director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia at Amnesty International.

"This represents a new departure in the chilling campaign to exterminate all vestiges of dissent in Belarus since the disputed 2020 election," she said. "The severity is surprising even for a country and a region that has witnessed more than its fair share of brutal reprisals."

Written by Robert Coalson based on reporting from the podcast The Belag Archipelago by RFE/RL's Belarus Service

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/belarus-lukashenka-crackdown- gulag-repression/32959083.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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Premier Li to attend China-Japan-S.Korea trilateral summit meeting

Global Times

Resumption of cooperation 'a good sign', but 'don't step on Beijing's red line'

By Fan Anqi and Yu Xi Published: May 23, 2024 09:46 PM Updated: May 23, 2024 11:23 PM

Chinese Premier Li Qiang will be attending the 9th trilateral summit meeting between China, Japan and South Korea in Seoul from May 26 to 27, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday. The resumption of the meeting after over four years' suspension is "an encouraging sign," experts said, while noting that risks brought by geopolitical games and external interference remain. They warned Japan and South Korea not to step on China's red line regarding the Taiwan question.

Premier Li Qiang, together with leaders of Japan and South Korea, will attend the upcoming trilateral summit meeting, the China-Japan-South Korea business summit and other important events and exchange views on China-Japan-South Korea cooperation, Wang Wenbin, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said at Thursday's media briefing.

With complex changes unfolding in our region and beyond, we hope that the forthcoming summit meeting will inject new impetus into the trilateral cooperation and provide better ways towards mutual benefit for the three countries, Wang said.

China stands ready to work with Japan and South Korea to implement the Trilateral Cooperation Vision for the Next Decade and other important common understandings, deepen economic and trade, sci-tech and cultural cooperation to advance regional economic integration in East Asia and promote regional and global peace, stability and prosperity, the spokesperson added.

China, Japan and the ROK are neighbors and major economies in Asia and the world. In the course of jointly tackling the Asian financial crisis, our three countries launched trilateral cooperation. Twenty-five years on, we have put in place a China-Japan-ROK cooperation framework centering on the summit meeting and supported by ministerial meetings, senior officials' meeting and over 70 working-level mechanisms.

Chinese experts lauded the trilateral cooperation mechanism, saying it held great importance as the three neighboring countries are inseparable and have a high degree of complementarity. "The three economic powerhouses have a common desire for cooperation, just as the saying goes, 'unity brings benefits, while discord leads to harm'," LA Chao, an expert on the Korean Peninsula at the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Thursday.

The reasons for a hiatus of nearly four and a half years are quite obvious. Apart from the COVID-19 pandemic, significant changes in the international landscape and the differing stances among the three on various global issues, as well as tense China-US relations, have all played a major role, observers noted.

In light of this, the resumption of this meeting is indeed an uplifting development that indicates a hard-won consensus on reinstating cooperation. LA believes it can gradually push the East Asian region into the center of the global economy, while also stimulating global economic growth.

"Overall, the restart of the meeting presents more opportunities than challenges, it's more about communication rather than friction," Da Zhigang, director of the Institute of Northeast Asian Studies at the Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times.

Da said consensus is likely to be reached in managing differences and promoting win-win cooperation, while advancing further trade facilitation measures including institutionally.

Observers also expect the meeting to expedite a new round of negotiations on China-Japan-South Korea free trade agreements, which, once integrated with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), may stimulate higher levels of institutional cooperation among the three.

Nevertheless, Chinese analysts warned of a number of remaining risks that would hinder trilateral cooperation, including Tokyo and Seoul's geopolitical games, in which they serve the US "Indo-Pacific strategy" while also exerting their own regional influence by meddling in China's internal affairs regarding the South China Sea and the Taiwan question.

Another major influencing factor is the US, which does not wish to see the three Asian countries join hands, and it has spared no effort interfering in regional issues that led to the disruption of this trilateral mechanism, LA warned.

Chinese ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao on Monday voiced strong opposition to Japan's sending more than 30 parliamentarians to Taiwan region to "congratulate" the new regional leader at a so-called inauguration ceremony.

Also on Thursday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated that the Taiwan question is at the very core of China's core interests. It bears on the political foundation of China-Japan relations and is a red line that must not be crossed.

Some in Japan have been making negative moves on Taiwan, including repeating the preposterous and dangerous notion that "any contingency for Taiwan is a contingency for Japan", which seriously violates the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan and the commitments Japan has made, Wang said.

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UK's accusation on China providing 'lethal aid' to Russia slammed by China, questioned by US

Global Times

By Chen Qingqing Published: May 23, 2024 09:55 PM

China condemned on Thursday the UK's accusation that it was providing "lethal aid" to Russia amid the Ukraine crisis, noting the claims made by the UK's defense secretary have even been questioned by its major ally, the US. Given that British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party badly lags in the polls ahead of July elections, the Conservatives will undoubtedly seize every opportunity to take a strong stance against China, experts said.

British defense secretary Grant Shapps accused China on Wednesday of providing or preparing to provide Russia with lethal aid for use in its war against Ukraine, Reuters reported.

However, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Washington had not observed that China had directly provided weapons to Russia and added that he would speak with UK colleagues to better understand the defense secretary's comments, according to the Financial Times.

We condemn the UK politician's groundless and irresponsible vilification of China. We noted the fact those remarks from the UK side were not even seconded by its "close ally,"

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told the Global Times during a press conference on Thursday.

Let me be clear, it's the UK, not China, that has been fanning the flames on Ukraine. It's reported that two years ago when Russia and Ukraine were close to an agreement to end the conflict, it was the UK, among others, that jumped in the way to stop it and the conflict has continued since, Wang noted.

"Just as China and the international community work hard to cool down the situation, the UK side once again made irresponsible remarks, which is quite alarming," the spokesperson said.

The Chinese Embassy in the UK also denounced the accusation from the British side early Thursday, saying that such claims are totally groundless.

The British defense secretary accused China of providing lethal weapons to Russia, against the backdrop of the UK hyping the so-called threat of close China-Russia ties and pushing for increased defense spending within NATO, Li Guanjie, a research fellow with the Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies under the Shanghai International Studies University, told the Global Times on Thursday.

The UK has been ramping up efforts to hype China-related issues as London aligns more closely with Washington in foreign policy, some experts said, while also noting that a smear campaign has been intensifying with the upcoming general election.

Sunak on Wednesday called a national election for July 4, as his Conservative party currently lags far behind its Labour opponents in polls.

The current Conservative government is in a precarious period, which is why Sunak is calling for an early election as a last-ditch effort. In this context, it is difficult to interpret the statements of the UK government's cabinet members as strategic or planned actions regarding China, Gao Jian, director of the Center for British Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, told the Global Times on Thursday.

"Why does the UK official dare to make such claims when the US said there is no evidence of China providing lethal weapons to Russia? Because the political cost of such claims is low, with no regard for credibility," Gao said, noting that those claims are only made to grab attention, extend political life, and gain favor with anti-China forces.

What we would like to say to the UK politician is that vilifying China will not get the UK out of its difficult spot on Ukraine, still less solve the UK's thorny domestic issues. Instead of falsely accusing China, why not take a hard look at what role the UK itself has played on the Ukraine issue, Wang said.

While some experts believed that UK voters care most about issues related to their livelihoods rather than China-related topics, some said the Conservatives will undoubtedly seize the opportunity to take a strong stance against China, given that its polling lags behind Labour's.

"In fact, the UK does not have the courage, strength, or ability to threaten our core interests. If they do step on our core interests, such as on the Taiwan question, the Chinese government will not hesitate to [react with countermeasures]," Gao said.

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U.S. Pushes Back On British Claim That China Sending Lethal Aid To Russia

By Reid Standish May 23, 2024

In a split with Britain, U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan said he had not seen evidence that China was directly sending lethal military assistance to Russia for its war against Ukraine.

British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said on May 22 that there was evidence that "lethal aid is now, or will be, flowing from China to Russia and into Ukraine."

That claim, however, was contradicted by Sullivan hours later when he seemed to take issue with Shapps' comments, saying that Washington did not share the assessment.

"We have not seen that to date. I look forward to speaking with the U.K. to make sure that we have a common operating picture," Sullivan told reporters.

Shapp's accusation, which was provided without evidence or details, made headlines when it appeared to indicate that Beijing had stepped up its level of support for Moscow by sending weapons, ammunition, and other lethal aid to Russia.

"Today I can reveal that we have evidence that Russia and China are collaborating on combat equipment for use in Ukraine," Shapps said during his speech at the London Defense Conference.

"This is new intelligence which leads me to be able to declassify and reveal this fact today. I think it's quite significant," he added.

But Sullivan's comments show that this assessment is not shared by the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden.

The U.S. national-security adviser said the possibility that China might "provide weapons directly - lethal assistance - to Russia" had been a concern earlier but said that it had not taken place.

Washington, Sullivan added, did have a "concern about what China's doing to fuel Russia's war machine, not giving weapons directly, but providing inputs to Russia's defense industrial base."

The United States has previously accused China of helping Russia with technology and sending militarily useful but nonlethal dual-use goods that have helped Russian forces on the battlefield, but stopped short of saying that Beijing was directly supplying arms.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin to Beijing in mid-May, where the two leaders put on a strong show of unity.

China has supported Russia economically through trade and purchasing oil and gas, and senior U.S. officials have said Beijing's supply of dual-use goods has had a decisive impact in helping Moscow on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Independent analyses of Chinese customs data and a U.S. intelligence assessment show that in 2023 some 90 percent of "high-priority" dual-use goods used in Russian weapons production were imported from China.

Beijing has previously denied providing actual weapons and ammunition for Russia's war effort.

The Chinese Embassy in London told Reuters that Shapps' comments were "totally groundless" and accused Britain of spreading "baseless accusations."

With reporting from AP and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/china-russia-ukraine-sullivan- shapps-britain-aid/32960548.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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Late President Ebrahim Raisi laid to rest at Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 23, 2024

Mashhad, IRNA -- Iran's late President Ebrahim Raisi was laid to rest in his hometown of Mashhad that hosts the holy shrine of the eighth Shia imam, Imam Reza (AS).

The body of Raisi arrived in Mashhad on Thursday morning, with huge crowds of people gathering for his funeral procession that reached Imam Reza's holy shrine where the late president was laid to rest.

According to Mohammad-Reza Ghalandar, the mayor of Mashhad, an estimated three million people have taken part in the mourning ceremony, including those from other Iranian cities as well as neighboring countries of Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Turkiye.

Raisi, his foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and several more officials lost their lives on Sunday when their helicopter crashed in Iran's northwestern province of East Azarbaijan. They were en route to the provincial capital Tabriz from the border with the Azerbaijan Republic, where Raisi had inaugurated a joint dam with his Azeri counterpart Ilham Aliyev.

Funeral processions were also held for the martyrs on Tuesday and Wednesday in the cities of Tabriz and Qom and the capital Tehran. Dozens of top officials from other countries attended a memorial ceremony in Tehran on Wednesday afternoon as well.

Raisi, 63, was the eighth president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, who was elected in August 2021. Before that, he was in charge of Iran's Judiciary, and was a member of the Expediency Council and the vice chairman of the Assembly of Experts, as well as the custodian of Astan Quds Razavi.

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President Raeisi laid to rest at Imam Reza (AS) Shrine

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 4:37 PM

Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi has been laid to rest, concluding days of funeral attended by several millions of mourners after his "martyrdom-like passing" in a helicopter crash.

At least three million mourners marched in his home town Mashhad Thursday to bid farewell to President Raeisi, the mega city's mayor said, following processions in the cities of Tabriz, Qom, Tehran and Birjand.

Later at dusk, the president's body was lowered into a tomb at the Imam Reza (AS) Shrine, where Shia Islam's eighth imam is buried and millions of pilgrims visit each year.

The 63-year-old president lost his life on Sunday alongside his foreign minister and six others after their helicopter went down in the country's mountainous northwest while heading to inaugurate an upgraded oil refinery unit in Tabriz.

The incident engulfed Iran in shock and grief and generated a groundswell of support and solidarity from Muslims and non-Muslims across the world.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, expressing his deep sorrow over the "martyrdom-like passing", announced five days of national mourning on Monday.

The cortege carrying the coffins of the "martyrs" attracted huge numbers of mourners who thronged main thoroughfares and adjoining streets for several kilometers, wherever it went.

In Tehran, Ayatollah Khamenei and representatives of the regional resistance groups prayed over the coffins Wednesday, before millions of people followed a procession down Tehran's main boulevard.

"Oh Allah, we didn't see anything but good from him," Ayatollah Khamenei said in Arabic. Iran's acting president, Mohammad Mokhber, and other officials stood nearby and some openly cried.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh attended the prayers and recounted President Raeisi telling him that the Oct. 7 operation by Palestinian fighters against Israel was an "earthquake in the heart of the Zionist entity".

Late Wednesday, the resistance leaders met on the sidelines of the funeral with General Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, and Esmail Qa'ani, head of the Quds Force, for talks on the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza.

Statesmen from West Asia and beyond from some 60 countries attended a later memorial service, including Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Tunisian President Kais Saied.

Tajikistan's President Imomali Rahmon, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the UAE's minister of foreign affairs, were other foreign representatives who traveled to Tehran, meeting Iranian leaders to express their condolences.

On Thursday, millions of men and women dressed in black crowded around the Imam Reza (AS) Shrine under its golden dome, weeping and beating their chests in sorrow.

Some clutched white flowers, while others held aloft placards paying tribute to President Raeisi as the "man of the battlefield" as a large truck carrying his body drove through the sea of mourners.

"I have come, O Shah, give me refuge," said a large Farsi writing emblazoned on top of the truck, in reference to Imam Reza (AS).

Posters of President Raeisi, black flags and religious symbols were erected along the streets of Mashhad, particularly around his final resting place.

Earlier tens of thousands of people lined the streets of Birjand, capital of the eastern province of South Khorasan, to bid farewell to the late president as his coffin move through the main street.

President Raeisi was South Khorasan's representative in the Assembly of Experts which is in charge of selecting or dismissing Iran's leader.

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Iranian President's Death Could Trigger 'Power Competition' For Next Supreme Leader

By Kian Sharifi May 23, 2024

The sudden death of President Ebrahim Raisi has thrown a wrench in the succession plans of Iran's elderly supreme leader.

The ultraconservative Raisi was a longtime protege of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was widely believed to be grooming the former judiciary chief as his successor.

Raisi's demise has boosted the prospects of other contenders, including Khamenei's own son, landing the most coveted job in the Islamic republic.

With no obvious front-runner to be the next supreme leader, Raisi's death in a helicopter crash on May 19 is likely to trigger a power struggle among members of the country's clerical establishment, experts say.

"If Khamenei can't control this power competition, then he might have to face a basic reality of the succession issue becoming a destabilizing factor for the regime while he is, in fact, still alive," said Alex Vatanka, director of the Iran Program at the Washington-based Middle East Institute.

Who Are The Likely Contenders?

The 88-seat Assembly of Experts, whose members are elected for eight-year terms, is tasked with appointing the next supreme leader.

Dominated by hard-liners, the clerical body has been secretive about potential successors to the 85-year-old Khamenei, who became the supreme leader in 1989 after the death of the founder of the Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

A three-man panel in the assembly keeps a list of possible successors that has reportedly not even been seen by other members.

Some experts say Raisi's death has boosted the chances of Mojtaba Khamenei, a cleric and the supreme leader's second son.

The 55-year-old has shunned the limelight but is believed to have considerable influence behind the scenes and close ties with the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), which plays a prominent military, political, and economic role in Iran.

But the younger Khamenei is seen as lacking the leadership skills and religious credentials for the post. He is widely referred to as a hojatoleslam, a title that refers to mid-ranking clerics, although a news agency affiliated with seminaries has since 2022 called him an ayatollah, an honorific title reserved for high-ranking clerics.

In February, a member of the Assembly of Experts said the supreme leader was opposed to hereditary rule, which would appear to rule out the younger Khamenei.

"The optics of having a son succeed his father perhaps resembles the optics of a monarchy," said Farzan Sabet, a senior research associate at the Geneva Graduate School.

The Islamic Revolution in 1979 saw clerics loyal to Khomeini overthrow the U.S.-backed shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.

Sabet said the younger Khamenei is still likely to "play an important role in a future iteration of the Islamic republic."

Another cleric who is believed to be in contention for the role of supreme leader is Ayatollah Alireza A'rafi. The 67-year-old is close to Khamenei and serves as one of two deputy chiefs of the Assembly of Experts.

In 2020, Khamenei appointed A'rafi as the head of all of Iran's seminaries, suggesting that he meets the religious criteria to become the next supreme leader.

A'rafi is not a household name and lacks name recognition, but that does not necessarily hurt his chances.

"Something we have to note about high-level leadership positions in the Islamic republic...is that a candidate may often emerge from, let's say, relative obscurity," Sabet said.

IRGC Playing Kingmaker

Analysts say the IRGC is likely to play a key role in picking Khamenei's successor in an effort to protect its interests.

Ali Alfoneh, a senior fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, said Raisi was the ideal candidate for the IRGC because he was a "malleable yes-man devoid of independent ideas."

"Ayatollah Khamenei, and the Revolutionary Guards must now try to identify an individual as artless as the late President Raisi," Alfoneh said.

In the early 1980s, Khomeini appointed Ayatollah Hossein Ali Montazeri as his deputy. But they fell out and the latter was cast side and his position abolished.

In 2018, amid rumors of Khamenei's poor health, there was talk of reestablishing the position of deputy supreme leader but it led nowhere.

"This unwillingness to share the stage with anyone else -- in fear of losing his authority -- has kept everyone guessing about who might succeed Khamenei," Vatanka said.

"Khamenei's ambiguity around the succession issue is more likely now to be a liability for him than an asset."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-raisi-khamenei- succession-competition/32960814.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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Iran Buries President Raisi In His Hometown

By RFE/RL's Radio Farda May 23, 2024

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was laid to rest in his home city of Mashhad on May 23 as many thousands of mourners packed the streets ahead of the burial ceremony.

Raisi was buried next to the mausoleum of the eighth Shi'ite Imam Reza, an important Shi'ite site, state broadcaster IRIB reported.

Ceremonies that preceded the burial commenced earlier in the eastern city of Birjand, where thousands of black-clad people marched along the main avenue holding portraits of the president and others killed in a weekend helicopter crash.

Throngs of mourners accompanied Raisi's casket draped in the Iranian flag and placed on a platform truck that also displayed a sign reading, "This is the shrine" before the ceremonies were to move to Mashhad.

Although thousands of people joined the procession, the attendance was lower than on other similar occasions, a likely indication of a deepening rift between the country's Islamic theocracy and ordinary citizens frustrated by the increasing repression of their rights and declining living standards.

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, who was also killed in the helicopter crash, was buried on May 23 in the Shah Abdul Azim shrine in the city of Rey, just south of Tehran. Ahead of the burial, Iranian officials and foreign diplomats paid their respects to Amir-Abdollahian at a ceremony in Tehran.

A day earlier, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led funeral prayers in Tehran, where thousands attended a funeral procession.

Some reports said Tehran residents received mobile phone messages urging them to attend the funeral procession.

Khamenei presided over the start of the ceremony, where he delivered a traditional "death prayer" for Raisi and then left the ceremony without giving a speech. Iran's acting president, First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber, was also in attendance.

Several foreign dignitaries attended, including Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian, Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani, and a delegation from Afghanistan's Taliban rulers led by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Mutaqqi.

No Western leaders attended. Three former Iranian presidents -- Mohammad Khatami, Mahmud Ahmadinejad, and Hassan Rohani -- were also not seen among dignitaries in attendance.

A presidential election to determine Raisi's successor was announced for June 28. The election is to be organized by a council consisting of the speaker of parliament, the head of the judiciary, and the first vice president.

Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani was appointed acting foreign minister.

Analyst Mehdi Khalaji, from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that no matter who will become the next president, Iran's future leadership will not be endured by one person, but the regime will try to form a "special joint leadership stock company."

The ceremonies marking the deaths of those involved in the crash started on May 21 in the city of Tabriz, the capital of Iran's northwestern province of East Azerbaijan where the crash occurred, and the Shi'ite clerical center of Qom.

Beyond the official display of public grief, many Iranians who have been victims of acts of repression by Raisi and the Iranian regime or had relatives who suffered from such acts were adamant in voicing their satisfaction at Raisi's death.

A woman who lost 11 relatives, including two daughters, in executions allegedly coordinated by Raisi in 1988 told RFE/RL that she was celebrating his death.

"Truly, I cannot express how limitless my happiness is," Esman Vatanparast said. "When Raisi became president, it was very difficult for us hurting mothers, the survivors of the massacres committed by him."

Raisi was elected president in 2021 and had tightened many restrictions on Iranians through the enforcement of morality laws and a bloody crackdown on anti-government protests spurred by the death of Mahsa Amini while in police custody for allegedly violating the Islamic dress code on head scarves.

Thousands of people, including protesters, journalists, lawyers, athletes, and artists have been arrested and at least 500 people have been killed in Iran's brutal crackdown on the protests.

Raisi also pushed hard in nuclear talks with world powers while also allowing the country to markedly increase its uranium enrichment program.

The director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Raisi's has pushed back nuclear negotiations to improve Iran's cooperation with the agency.

"Now Iran is in a period of mourning and it should be respected, but when this period is over, we want to re-engage with Iran to improve cooperation," Rafael Grossi said on May 22 in Helsinki.

With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/raisi-khamenei-abdollahian- funeral-iran/32960324.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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Raisi buried in Iran's holiest Islamic site

By VOA News May 23, 2024

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was interred Thursday in a tomb in the gold-domed Iman Reza Holy Shrine, Iran's holiest Islamic site.

Thousands of mourners filled the streets of Mashhad, Iran, for his funeral.

Raisi, 63, was killed Sunday, along with Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and six others in a helicopter crash in Iran's East Azerbaijan province in the mountainous northwest. Raisi was widely seen as a candidate to succeed 85-year-old Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who wields ultimate power in Iran.

Many of the mourners in Mashhad were dressed in black and beat their chests and heads in a sign of mourning common in Shi'ite ceremonies. A truck carried his casket down a street, with mourners reaching out to touch it and tossing scarves and flowers against it for a blessing.

The Imam Reza shrine is revered as the resting place of the 9th century Imam Ali al-Reza. Raisi hailed from Mashhad, 900 kilometers east of Tehran, the Iranian capital.

Earlier, thousands had paid their respects as his coffin was driven in a motorcade through the eastern city of Birjand.

While the crowds were substantial for Raisi's funeral, they were not as large as those that gathered for the funeral for Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani in 2020, who was killed by a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad.

It was a possible sign of the public's feelings about Raisi's presidency during which the government harshly cracked down on all dissent during protests over the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, who was detained allegedly for not properly wearing her mandatory head scarf to authorities' liking.

Persian social media users posted videos appearing to show people in different parts of Iran sharing sweets and chocolates on Monday to celebrate Raisi's death.

Khamenei named Mohammad Mokhber, a relatively unknown first vice president until Sunday's crash, as Iran's acting president. A presidential election is set for June 28.

Some material for this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters.

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Russia to Take Security Measures If Japan Repeals Article 9 of Constitution - Diplomat

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia will take countermeasures if Japan repeals Article 9 of its constitution, which implies the prohibition of the maintenance of armed forces, Director of Second Asian Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Lyudmila Vorobyova told Sputnik.

"Such a decision is fraught with additional threats to Russia's security. In response, we will be forced to take countermeasures to strengthen the national defense capability," Vorobyova said.

Such actions by Tokyo could lead to an increase of tensions in the region, the diplomat added.

"Japan's deviation from the path of peaceful development declared by previous generations of politicians will inevitably provoke new security challenges, lead to increased tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, and stimulate a new stage of the arms race," Vorobyova added.

The final choice on the issue should be made by the Japanese people in a referendum, which has a long way to go, the diplomat concluded.

A Sputnik

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20,000 civilians trapped by fighting in western Myanmar

Residents of Rakhine's Maungdaw township, near Bangladesh, say army is preventing them from leaving.

By RFA Burmese 2024.05.23 -- Around 20,000 civilians are trapped in western Myanmar's Rakhine state amid fierce fighting between ethnic rebels and the military for control of Maungdaw township on the border with Bangladesh, residents said Thursday.

In November, the Arakan Army, or AA, ended a ceasefire that had been in place since the military's February 2021 coup d'etat and has since captured nine townships across Rakhine state and launched several offensives in other areas. Maungdaw is a key trade hub for goods flowing in and out of Myanmar via Bangladesh.

Fighting escalated in the area after the AA recently attacked the pro-junta No. 2 Border Guard Force in Four Mile village, located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) east of the seat of Maungdaw township, along the Maungdaw-Buthidaung highway.

A resident told RFA Burmese on Thursday that junta troops are now preventing civilians from leaving Maungdaw.

"Those who have tried to escape from the town were arrested," said the resident who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke to RFA on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. "As the junta troops extort money, we don't even try to flee anymore."

The resident said junta reinforcements in six or seven trucks arrived in the area on Wednesday and that troops are patrolling the town at night.

More than 26,000 people, including ethnic Rakhines, Rohingyas and Hindus, live in Maungdaw township, but Muslim Rohingyas make up an estimated 80% of the population.

Residents said that most of the Rakhines - who are the majority ethnicity in Rakhine state - have left the town gradually since April, and now "only a small number" of them remain in the town.

However, they said that nearly 20,000 people - mostly Rohingyas and Hindus - remain trapped in Maungdaw amid the fighting.

'Living in fear'

Another resident of Maungdaw township, who also declined to be named, told RFA that they were prepared to flee at a moment's notice, if the chance arrived.

"We regularly hear fighter jets and heavy artillery fire in the town," they said. "I have prepared my backpack with some clothes in it."

A Rohingya from Maungdaw said that those trapped in the town are "living in fear."

"The junta and its [forcibly recruited] Muslim [militia] forces have threatened that Rakhine people will be arrested and local Muslims will be shot dead on the spot if they try to flee," he said.

The AA has captured several junta outposts along the Myanmar-Bangladesh border, and at present only a few junta camps near and south of Maungdaw township remain under the control of the military, according to residents.

All bridges to Maungdaw have been destroyed and junta troops have blocked entrances to the town with the newly arrived reinforcements, they said.

Attempts by RFA to contact Hla Thein, the junta's spokesman and attorney general for Rakhine state, by telephone regarding the latest situations in Maungdaw went unanswered Thursday.

The AA issued a warning on May 20 calling on international organizations and residents of Buthidaung, Maungdaw and Thandwe townships to evacuate ahead of increased clashes.

After the resurgence of battles in Rakhine state since November 13, the AA has controlled 10 townships, including Buthidaung township of Rakhine state and Paletwa township in Chin State.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and 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 May 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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Myanmar junta detains dozens, including 3 pastors, in village raid, witnesses say

The group was questioned for information on ethnic minority insurgents and beaten, said a released prisoner.

By RFA Burmese 2024.05.23 -- Junta troops raided a village in northern Myanmar's Kachin State on Thursday and detained more than 30 people, including Christian leaders and teenagers on suspicion of supporting a rebel group, residents told Radio Free Asia.

A group of about 100 soldiers stormed the village in Kachin State's Hpakant township before dawn and rounded up villagers in a school before marching the detainees away for questioning, they said.

"More than 200 villagers were held in the school initially," said one villager who declined to be identified for safety reasons.

"They said they would shoot up the village if they [junta troops] were attacked. They made threats to scare us."

Those detained were accused of supporting the anti-junta Kachin Independence Army, villagers said. The detainees were released after about nine hours of questioning, they said.

RFA telephoned Kachin State's junta spokesperson, Moe Min Thein, for more information but he did not respond.

The Kachin force, one of Myanmar's most powerful ethnic minority guerrilla groups battling for self-determination, has said it has captured at least 100 junta camps and eight towns across the state, and in neighboring Shan State, over recent months.

This week, Kachin fighters captured a junta camp and secured a trade route near the Kachin State capital of Myitkyina, close to the border with China.

Soldiers from the junta's Divisions 33 and 77 conducted the raid on Nam Si In village and took away the men, most of them middle-aged, said one villager, who declined to be identified for safety reasons.

"Three Christian pastors were among those arrested," said the villager.

Many Kachin are Christian.

The detained villagers were interrogated about any links to the Kachin Independence Army and other anti-junta militias set up by pro-democracy activists, said one of those questioned. Some of them were beaten with guns and told to report any rebel activity, he added.

Five teenagers were among those detained and beaten, he said.

Kachin guerrillas have in recent weeks captured junta camps in four villages in heavy fighting in Hpakant township, residents said.

Kachin Baptist Convention pastor Hkalam Samson was released on parole in one of the junta's mass amnesties on April 17 after being sentenced to six years in prison under an anti-terrorism law. But he was re-arrested later that day, according to sources close to the family.

Unidentified gunmen have executed at least two pastors in Kachin State this year. The motive for the killings was not known.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn.

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 May 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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Junta targeting aid groups, social workers in Myanmar's Sagaing region

6 social workers arrested in early May have been out of contact for more than 2 weeks.

By RFA Burmese 2024.05.23 -- Myanmar's junta is targeting welfare groups assisting people displaced by conflict and social volunteer workers in the country's northern Sagaing region, where armed clashes between the military and rebel groups are intensifying, aid workers said.

Last week, the United Nations said that Myanmar's civil war has left a total of 18.6 million people in need - more than one-third of the country's 54 million people and 1 million more than in 2023. The U.N. said that Sagaing, as well as the central Magway region and Chin state in the west, have the highest number of internally displaced people, or IDPs, at nearly 1.5 million.

Amid the humanitarian crisis, six social workers from Sagaing region were arrested in early May and have not been reachable for more than two weeks, aid workers told RFA Burmese on Wednesday.

A social worker in Sagaing township who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke to RFA on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, said that they are afraid to continue their humanitarian work after the junta arrested the six volunteers.

"In the past, we carried out volunteer work freely," he said. "Recently, some members of the welfare association were arrested on false allegations. We have lost the confidence to continue our work."

Of the six arrested, three are members of the Thukhakari Health and Social Welfare Association and the other three are volunteers in Sagaing township, aid workers said.

Zin Phyo Aung, also known as "Fatty," who works as a driver for the Thukhakari Health and Social Welfare Association, was arrested at his house on May 5. Junta troops raided the association's office located in Sagaing township's Lay Kyun Myay monastery the following day.

Six members of the association were arrested during the raid, and four were later released. But the remaining two men, identified as Aung Thu and Arkar Phyo Kyaw, remain in custody, aid workers said.

More recently, three social volunteers from Sagaing township - Aung Aung, Soe Win and Aye Zarni Tun - were also arrested, they said.

Allegations of terrorism

Dhamma Piya Lankkara, a senior Buddhist monk and the patron of the Thukhakari Health and Social Welfare Association, said the six social workers were arrested on allegations of ties to the anti-junta People's Defence Force, or PDF.

"Three members of our association were arrested and the remaining social workers are from other welfare associations," he said. "They were taken in private cars, and have been accused of connections with [illegal] organizations and violation of existing laws."

Dhamma Piya Lankkara said it remains unclear where they are being held or whether charges have been filed against them.

The Thukhakari Health and Social Welfare Association has more than 300 members, and has been providing assistance in the areas of health, funerals and natural disasters for 16 years, the monk said.

While the junta has not released any statement about the arrests, pro-junta accounts on the social media platform Telegram recently claimed that six social workers from Sagaing township had been charged with violating the Counter Terrorism Law for allegedly "supplying the PDF."

Workers fear for their safety

There are more than 30,000 people displaced by conflict in Sagaing region, an official with the Social Welfare Network for Sagaing's People told RFA. The network comprises 25 organizations, and provides assistance to IDPs in 24 of Sagaing region's 37 townships.

A volunteer helping displaced persons in Sagaing's Monywa township told RFA that the junta recently began targeting social volunteers in the area.

"People are afraid to go to hospitals for the treatment of injuries, so we have set up a small emergency clinic," he said. "However, the junta says our clinics are intended for the rebel forces instead of people displaced by conflict, so they label them illegal."

The volunteer added that junta troops at checkpoints have been confiscating medicine and equipment earmarked for IDPs.

Since the February 2021 military coup in Myanmar, many social welfare organizations have shut down for various reasons or had their work hampered by restrictions and arrests.

No access to treatment

Villagers in Sagaing's Taze township told RFA they are worried about access to health care services as junta troops frequently conduct raids in the area on the pretext of targeting PDF hideouts.

A resident of Taze's Chaung Yoe village told RFA that civilians are suffering because they lack adequate medical treatment.

"In the past, social welfare associations from nearby townships such as Ye-U and Lan Son let us borrow their cars if we had problems with the ones we use for funeral services, but these days, only a handful of welfare associations are operating," he said. "They are afraid to provide assistance, even though they want to."

The resident said that when people have been ferried to clinics for treatment, junta troops at checkpoints "conduct thorough inspections, forcing us to bring the patients back home."

"When it comes to health problems, residents have no access to medical treatment at hospitals, and it's causing loss of life," he said.

Violating international law

Burma Human Rights Network director Kyaw Win told RFA that the junta's targeting of volunteers assisting people displaced by conflict is unacceptable.

"Humanitarian aid groups do not discriminate against people," he said. "Their values dictate that if an individual is facing hardship, they will provide assistance. Prohibition, arrest and legal action against such humanitarian groups are in violation of international law."

Kyaw Win added that the junta is using violence to stop the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people.

Calls by RFA to Nyunt Win Aung, the junta's social affairs minister and spokesperson for Sagaing region, for information about the arrests of social volunteers went unanswered Wednesday.

According to a report by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma), more than 20,000 civilians remain in junta detention more than three years after the military coup.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and 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 May 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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Myanmar court lowers bid price on democracy icon Suu Kyi's home

Her brother called for the reduction after an auction ended with no one willing to pay US$90 million.

By RFA Burmese 2024.05.23 -- Jailed democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi's brother on Thursday won an appeal to lower the bidding price for their family's historic home in Myanmar's Yangon region, after a court-ordered auction in March concluded with no one willing to pay 315 billion kyats, or about US$90 million, for the property.

Critics have called the auction part of an attempt by the military regime to "obliterate the history" of Myanmar's democratic movement, while the country's shadow government of former civilian leaders has vowed to take legal action against anyone who tries to purchase the home.

They say it should be protected as a place of cultural heritage.

In August 2022, Suu Kyi's brother Aung San Oo won a case at a military junta court to liquidate the residence at No. 54 University Avenue in Yangon's Bahan township.

On Thursday, he successfully petitioned the Kamaryut District Court to reduce the bidding price to 285 billion kyats, or about US$71 million, according to sources with knowledge of the proceedings.

He also lobbied the court to allow potential bidders to visit the two-acre site of the lakeside home where the deposed state counselor spent nearly 15 years under house arrest under Myanmar's previous military junta.

On March 20, an auction of Suu Kyi's home concluded with no buyers after repeated calls for bids by the auction officer were unsuccessful.

The Kamaryut District Court will reconvene on May 31 to determine how to proceed with the liquidation of the property and Suu Kyi's lawyers are expected to file objections to its sale. If the home does not return to auction, the court will proceed with its sale on the open market in accordance with the law.

Political analysts told RFA Burmese on Thursday that any auction is unlikely to succeed due to the house's historic significance, the high bidding price and the property's ties to Myanmar's political affairs.

Long-running case

The lakeside home was awarded to Suu Kyi's mother, Khin Kyi, after her father, independence activist Gen. Aung San was assassinated in 1947.

Granted freedom in 2010 after years of house arrest, Suu Kyi received U.S. President Barack Obama, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at the compound.

Ownership of the historic property has long been disputed by Suu Kyi and her elder brother Aung San Oo.

The legal case to liquidate the property began in 2000, with Aung San Oo auctioning off everything in No. 54 and dividing the proceeds with Suu Kyi.

In 2016, the Yangon Western District Court ruled that Suu Kyi was to receive half of the house and land, with Aung San Oo receiving the other half.

Dissatisfied with the ruling, Aung San Oo filed multiple appeals up to Myanmar's Supreme Court, where they were ultimately rejected, during the rule of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy, or NLD, government.

Myanmar's junta arrested and imprisoned Suu Kyi shortly after deposing the NLD in a February 2021 coup d'etat, at which point Aung San Oo filed new special appeals, resulting in the Union Supreme Court overruling the earlier decision. Consequently, the Kamaryut District Court decided to sell the property by auction.

Suu Kyi, 78, was initially sentenced by the junta to 33 years on 19 charges, a sentence that was later reduced to 27 years. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate is believed to be in solitary confinement in Naypyidaw Prison, in the capital, but her exact whereabouts are unknown.

Translated by Kalyar Lwin. Edited by Joshua Lipes and 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 May 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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Myanmar refugees in Thailand start interviews for US resettlement

By Zsombor Peter May 23, 2024

Interviews have begun with Myanmar refugees living in Thailand who are eligible for a new resettlement program in the United States, the Thai government said.

Thailand said it hopes the first group may get to move by the end of the year.

Some 90,000 refugees live in nine camps on the Thai side of the border to escape fighting between Myanmar's military and ethnic minority rebel armies vying for autonomy. Some of the refugees were born in the camps, which started to form in the mid-1980s, and many have lived in them for decades.

Persistent fighting in Myanmar, amplified by a military coup in February 2021, has kept most from returning home.

Aiming to give the refugees a safe way out of the camps, Thailand, the United States and the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees announced the resettlement plan in May 2023.

One year on, Thailand's Ministry of Interior says that the Thai government and UNHCR have finished checking the personal information of the refugees to verify their eligibility for the program. More than 80,000 refugees were deemed eligible, and nearly all of them told officials they wanted to resettle.

"After that, the U.S. team went to the first two camps for interviews, which have already been done," Zcongklod Khawjang, an interior ministry official in charge of overseeing the resettlement program, told VOA this week.

The two camps a Ban Don Yang and Tham Hin a are among the smallest of nine and host about 8,750 refugees combined.

Zcongklod said the U.S. Embassy in Thailand has not told the Thai government when the authorized refugees would be resettled or when interviews in the other seven camps would begin. But he added that Thailand was expecting the "first batch" to move to the U.S. sometime this year.

Hayso Thako, a joint secretary with the Karen Refugee Committee, one of the charities working in the camps, said he received the same message from the UNHCR at a meeting in March.

"They said most probably the first group would be able to leave by the end, almost the end of this year," he said.

The UNHCR declined to comment on when resettlement might begin and referred the question to the United States. The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok declined to provide a time frame.

"Resettlement operations are ongoing in cooperation with the UNHCR and the Royal Thai Government," the U.S. Embassy told VOA by email, attributing the comment to "a U.S. official."

The embassy also would not say how many of the 80,000-plus eligible refugees the U.S. was prepared to take in, either annually or in total. Zcongklod said the embassy has not provided the Thai government with those figures, either.

The Border Consortium, a network of charities that coordinate much of the international aid that reached the camps, said it has not been provided with official figures but said plans for the program appear to have been scaled down over time.

"Figures have changes. At the beginning, it was this number of people who could be resettled ... and maybe now it could be a lower number of people who could be resettled," Leon de Riedmatten, executive director of The Border Consortium, told VOA.

Even so, he said, "It's important for the residents in the camps themselves that there is still the possibility of resettlement. I think this is the main message, even if it's not going to be so many people who are going to be resettled to the United States."

Thailand has denied the refugees a regular path to gaining permanent legal residence and keeps tight control over their movements in and out of the camps.

Myanmar's 2021 coup brought the country's brief experiment with democracy to a halt, plunging it into civil war and dashing hopes that the refugees could return safely anytime soon.

Hayso Thako and de Riedmatten said it would help if other countries committed to taking in some of the refugees.

Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs told VOA it has encouraged more countries to join the resettlement program.

A previous program ended about five years ago after resettling thousands of refugees in the United States and a few other countries.

Without a clear idea of how many of the refugees the new program can handle, and no end in sight to the civil war raging in Myanmar, charities say the Thai government should also give the refugees the opportunity to settle permanently in Thailand.

"I think it's key. It's very, very important, because we cannot expect that all these refugees will be resettled. We cannot expect also that a large part of these refugees will return to Myanmar. So the ones, the majority, who will be left in the camps should have a better future," de Riedmatten said.

Even after four decades, most of the camps still lack electricity and running water. Most homes are huts of bamboo and eucalyptus poles topped with thatched roofs.

The refugees are mostly barred from studying or working outside of the camps, have few job opportunities inside and receive an average of about $9 in food aid a month.

Some advocates say a growing sense of despair across the camps is causing a rise in domestic abuse, gang violence, drug use and suicide.

"Living in the camps is not easy," Eh Nay Moo, 30, who fled Myanmar with his parents when he was three years old, told VOA.

"Here, we are just illegal people. ... There is no freedom for us. Going here and there outside of the camp, we are not allowed," he said from Mae La, the largest of the nine camps on the border.

Having spent almost his entire life in the camps, Eh Nay Moo said he cannot imagine returning to Myanmar but sees no real future for himself in the camps.

Eh Nay Moo said he has applied for the new resettlement program and is eagerly awaiting an interview.

"If I get a chance to move to the U.S. ... I believe that I will get more opportunity or freedom to do and live my life as a human being," he said.

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South Korea, China, Japan to hold trilateral talks on May 26-27 in Seoul

The last meeting among the neighbors was held in 2019.

By Taejun Kang for RFA 2024.05.23 -- Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet on May 26-27 in Seoul for their first trilateral talks in more than four years, South Korea's presidential office said on Thursday.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will have bilateral talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday, ahead of their three-way gathering on Monday, South Korea's deputy national security adviser, Kim Tae-hyo, said.

The summit will cover six areas of cooperation: economy and trade, sustainable development, health issues, science and technology, disaster and safety management, and people-to-people exchanges, Kim said, adding that the leaders would issue a joint statement.

The leaders will also discuss regional and international issues and meet about 80 businesspeople at a dinner on Sunday and a business forum the next day, Kim said.

"The summit will serve as a turning point for fully restoring and normalizing the trilateral cooperation system among South Korea, Japan and China," he added.

"It will also provide an opportunity to recover future-oriented and practical cooperation momentum that will allow the people of the three countries to feel the benefits."

The neighbors held an inaugural stand-alone trilateral summit in 2008, and were supposed to meet annually after that. But the summit has been suspended since it was last held in December 2019, in China, because of bilateral feuds and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Relations between all three have been fraught for various reasons over recent years.

South Korea and Japan are working to improve relations strained due to historical disputes stemming from Japan's wartime aggression. They are also strengthening their trilateral security partnership with the United States amid growing rivalry between China and the U.S.

Japan, South Korea and the United States underscored their security cooperation against North Korean threats and reinforced their commitment to a "free and open Indo-Pacific" during an August 2023 Camp David summit.

In 2018, the year before the last summit between the three Asian neighbors, in the Chinese city of Chengdu, North Korea unexpectedly changed its aggressive stance toward the U.S. and South Korea. Seoul, in turn, eased its criticism of Pyongyang.

Japan, however, continued to prioritize pressure on North Korea, causing disagreement with Seoul over North Korea policy. By the 2019 talks, the three neighbors could only agree on a general policy of cooperating on efforts to denuclearize North Korea.

China and South Korea have also clashed in recent years over a U.S. missile defense shield installed in South Korea.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the U.S. and its allies for their "intimidation in the military sphere" of North Korea at a recent bilateral summit.

In March, Russia vetoed a U.N. resolution to extend a monitoring panel for enforcing North Korean sanctions, while China abstained, blocking U.S.-led efforts to control Pyongyang's weapons program.

Edited by Mike Firn.

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 May 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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Russian-Bahraini talks

Vladimir Putin met at the Kremlin with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, who arrived in Russia on an official visit.

May 23, 2024

14:50

The Kremlin, Moscow

The talks began with a restricted format conversation and continued with the participation of the delegations in the business breakfast format.

The agenda included the current state of trade, economic, energy and humanitarian ties between Russia and Bahrain and the prospects for their expansion, as well as current international issues, including the Middle East, in view of Bahrain's chairmanship of the Arab League.

Following the consultations, a package of documents was signed. Specifically, we have signed a Cooperation Programme between the Russian Ministry of Culture and Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities for 2024-2027 and a Cooperation Agreement between Roscongress Foundation, Kamchatka Falcon Centre, and the Supreme Council for Environment of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation and the Authority for Culture and Antiquities of the Kingdom of Bahrain on holding Russian Seasons in the Kingdom of Bahrain in 2025. In addition, we have signed some documents regarding cooperation in pharmaceutical and medical industry, transport and transit.

* * *

Beginning of Russian-Bahraini talks in a restricted format

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Your Majesty, friends.

I am delighted to welcome you to Russia.

Your Majesty, we have not met since 2016, but we have remained in touch all this time. We spoke on the phone once again just recently, in March.

Next year, we will mark 35 years of diplomatic relations between our countries. Over these years, we have made significant progress in building relations between our states. Our foreign ministries maintain regular contacts, and we take similar approaches on many issues on the international agenda.

Just recently, a week ago, you chaired the Arab League summit. I am certainly interested in hearing your opinion on the situation in the Middle East and the details of the corresponding discussion at the summit.

Unfortunately, trade between Russia and Bahrain is at an early stage, but the trends are positive. However, the situation with investment is better: there are about 30 large projects underway, with a total worth of around $500 million.

At the same time, there is thriving cultural cooperation between our countries. This year, we will host Bahrain Days in Russia, and next year, as far as I know, our colleagues have agreed to hold Russian Seasons in your country.

Other humanitarian contacts are also expanding, primarily in education and science. They have great potential as well.

We are delighted to have you here, Your Majesty. Welcome to Russia.

King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa (retranslated): Good afternoon, Mr President.

I believe today is one of the happiest days of my life, and it is a pleasure to meet with you on this occasion. Thank you very much for your invitation and warm welcome. We have been away from Moscow, this beautiful city, for a long time and missed it dearly. We are thrilled to visit and reconnect with our friends.

Of course, the development of our bilateral cooperation in various areas is extremely important to us. One of the key goals of our visit is to inform you about the outcomes of the Arab League summit. Your Arab friends send their best wishes and deeply appreciate Russia's role in the fair resolution of Arab issues. There is complete understanding and agreement on the need to hold a peaceful international conference. Russia will be the first country I will turn to for support in this initiative because Russia plays an important role, can promote it, and has great authority worldwide. I hope this conference will take place in Bahrain.

Also, Mr President, I want to congratulate you on your victory in the election. This reflects your wise policy and positively impacts not only your country but also the Arab world. Your leadership brings stability to Russia, our brotherly nation, and we are witnessing unprecedented growth in the Russian economy, along with improvements in the social sphere and security. These positive changes in Russia also have a beneficial impact on our region.

Another significant topic is the situation in the Gaza Strip, a highly sensitive issue. We seek an end to the conflict in this region to save civilian lives. The ongoing conflict has forced hundreds of thousands of people to leave their homes. The Gaza Strip is only 40 kilometres long and 12 kilometres wide, with women and children huddled on this small piece of land under constant shelling. It is important to emphasise that these are innocent civilians. The historical disputes and disagreements are complex, but we are not discussing the military aspect of them and are focusing on the peaceful aspect. Notably, the Arab League summit saw almost unanimous agreement among Arab countries on this issue for the first time. This unanimity is encouraging and underscores the collective responsibility of the Arab world to address and resolve such serious problems.

In Bahrain, we are committed to the principles of good neighbourliness. We aspire to maintain normal, diplomatic, cultural, and various other ties with our neighbours. Mr President, I am confident that you will support this vision, as it is strongly supported by the Bahraini people and myself. We hope to foster good relations among all countries in the region, especially with Iran, given our past issues. Currently, those problems have been almost entirely resolved. Therefore, there is no reason to postpone the normalisation and enhancement of relations, particularly with Iran. Our shared history, mutual visits, and the potential for increased trade and improved living standards make this a positive goal if we can achieve it.

There are many other issues to consider.

<...>

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Putin signs decree allowing authorities to seize US property in Russia

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 6:16 PM

President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree which allows authorities to seize American property in the Russia Federation as compensation for any seizure of Russian assets in the United States.

The decree signed on Thursday established a special procedure for compensating damage caused to Russia and its central bank by the US government or judicial decisions through seizing Russian assets in the US.

According to Russia's leading news agency TASS, movable and immovable property of the US, American companies and citizens in Russia, as well as securities owned by them, and other property rights of the US and Americans in the Russia Federation will be subject to seizure.

In case the application is accepted, the court will send the request to Russia's state commission on monitoring foreign investment. The commission then will make a list of American property that, "taking into account the principle of proportionality, can be used" to compensate for damage from the seizure of Russian assets in the US.

"The decision [of the court] on establishing the fact of an unjustified deprivation of the Russian copyright holder of rights to property and on compensation for damages provides for the termination of rights of the United States or a US citizen to property included in the list, and the subsequent transfer of these rights to the Russian copyright holder to compensate for the damage," the decree said.

Since the onset of the current war between Russia and Ukraine, the US and its European allies have financially and militarily supported Kiev despite the Kremlin's repeated warning that such firm support of the ex-Soviet republic will only prolong the war.

The US and its allies have also unleashed waves of harsh sanctions against Russia, which has been threatening to confiscate the Russia-based assets of countries it considers to be "hostile."

"The government of the Russian Federation, within a four-month period, ensures the introduction of changes to the legislation of the Russian Federation aimed at implementing this decree," the document further said.

Putin's decree came almost a month after US President Joe Biden signed into law a whopping military aid to Ukraine. The critical aid package also included provisions for Washington to sell confiscated Russian assets in the US and hand the proceeds to Kiev for its post-war reconstruction efforts.

Shortly after the onset of the war, the US and its European allies seized or blocked some $300 billion of Russian financial assets.

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With Russian Nuclear Fuel Ban, U.S. Also Tries To Fix A (Self-Inflicted) Problem

By Mike Eckel May 23, 2024

It was one of the marquee U.S. disarmament programs of the post-Soviet era: Get Russia to downgrade tons of highly enriched uranium, turn it into power-plant fuel, sell it to the United States, keep weapons-grade uranium off the black market -- and potentially out of terrorists' hands.

Megatons to Megawatts was lauded as a success; enough uranium to arm around 20,000 Russian warheads was turned into fuel that has helped power American homes and businesses, even to this day.

The program had collateral damage, though: The U.S. enrichment industry ended up gutted, unable to compete with cheap Russian uranium. Today, 80 percent of all nuclear fuel used the United States -- which has more operating atomic plants than any other country -- is foreign; Russia is responsible for almost one-third of that.

Fast-forward 30 years: the U.S. government is trying to undo some of the self-inflicted damage, while also trying to cut off massive funding for the Kremlin's war on Ukraine.

Last week, President Joe Biden signed into a law a ban on imports of Russian-enriched uranium, legislation that had strong bipartisan support despite congressional foot-dragging.

"This new law reestablishes America's leadership in the nuclear sector," Jake Sullivan, the White House national-security adviser, said on May 13. "It will help secure our energy sector for generations to come."

U.S. lawmakers are now teeing up additional legislation that broadens previous sanctions on the Russian state nuclear company, Rosatom.

But the knotty failure of U.S. uranium enrichment is a less well-known side note to the success of Megatons to Megawatts -- a failure that complicated efforts to choke off an important source of funding for the Kremlin.

"It was a national failure on both the government and industry's parts to allow this critical national supply chain to wither," said Andrea Stricker, a nonproliferation expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a U.S. think tank. "We are in the mess we are now with Rosatom exactly because of these decades of mismanagement."

"I think there are causes beyond Megatons to Megawatts, but that certainly allowed the deeper pathologies to fester while the supply of enriched uranium continued," said Cheryl Rofer, a retired nuclear scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory who writes a widely read blog about nuclear policy.

'They're Very Good At What They Do'

After the Soviet collapse, fears of nuclear materials going missing, and ending up on the black market, were rampant. U.S. administrations made securing "loose nukes" a priority.

In the early 1990s, Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor Thomas Neff conceived a plan to induce Russia to dilute its weapons-grade uranium into fuel for electricity plants: Ultimately, 500 metric tons -- enough for 20,000 warheadsa was converted and purchased by the United States.

Cheap fuel for U.S. reactors; more cash for a broke Moscow; less material for catastrophically destructive weapons.

"We destroyed 70 percent of the Soviet arsenal. I don't know if that could be considered a flaw," Neff told RFE/RL. "To my mind, that was far more consequential than any other issue."

But cheap Russian fuel hollowed out the U.S. enrichment industry, removing domestic pressures, critics said, for the U.S. to build its own enrichment capacity. In 2013, the last U.S.-owned plant closed. Another U.S.-based plant, owned by Anglo-Dutch-German corporation Urenco, started up operations the previous year, and now stands to gain substantially from the Russian ban.

"It would have been good to plan ahead, and maybe some in the Department of Energy did, but Congress no longer has much nuclear expertise, and, in any case, they never had done any long-term planning around nuclear, so why start now?" Rofer said with sarcasm.

In Russia, consolidation and reforms resulted in the creation in 2007 of Rosatom, which took over enrichment for civilian purposes, along with weapons design for the military, as well as marketing and building out power plants around the world.

Of the 33 nuclear-generating countries, there are about 440 reactors that import nuclear fuel from Rosatom, according to industry figures, and the company is the world leader in uranium enrichment. Nuclear-generating countries bought $2.7 billion in enriched uranium and related services from Russia in 2023, according to an estimate by the Royal United Services Institute, a London think tank.

"They're very good at what they do," Neff said. "They build plants, reactors, fast, like the French. The U.S. has such a drawn-out regulatory process that the financing kills the nuclear industry in the U.S. The U.S. has also lost out in selling reactors to other countries."

Rosatom, which said it had $27.3 billion in revenues last year, did not answer a question about what percentage of its revenues ended up in government coffers.

But a statement from the company called the U.S. ban "discriminatory and non-market-oriented," saying it would harm global markets for nuclear fuel and services.

For the United States, Russia is the single-largest foreign supplier of nuclear fuel. By one estimate, $1 billion is paid annually by American customers to Rosatom.

Experts say the collateral damage to U.S. enrichment was just part of a wider policy error by the U.S. government -- most notably failing to develop its own technology.

The U.S. company at the center of the Megatons to Megawatts, now called Centrus Energy, filed for bankruptcy in 2013. After reorganization, it moved to build a new type of technology for enrichment, with the endorsement of the Department of Energy.

"The company we trusted to carry out the Megatons deal was also supposed to develop new technology," Neff said. "Instead, it was more interested in profits from marking up Russian supply to sell to utilities than developing a successful new enrichment technology, which it failed to do."

"The failure to do so was not the fault of the Megatons deal," he said. "Rather it was a failure of domestic policy. The U.S. still does not have a viable enrichment program."

Lindsey Geisler, a Centrus spokesperson, did not respond to a question about the company's past policies but argued that the new ban, plus nearly $3 billion in federal investment, will help "restore America's domestic nuclear fuel supply chain, and Centrus is well-positioned to lead that effort."

The U.S. Energy Department did not respond in time for publication.

The ban takes effect in August and provides a four-year grace period for American utilities to phase out their Russian imports, an effort to avoid destabilizing the U.S. power market.

Overall, the ban is limited in its scope, said Stricker, who also advised U.S. lawmakers on parallel legislation that would broaden secondary sanctions against Rosatom and its executives. But she said it was a step in the right direction.

"It is unamusing that U.S. utilities have continued to import Russian uranium mainly for economic reasons, since there are available alternative suppliers," Stricker said.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-nuclear- us-energy-ban/32960787.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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Senior Russian Military Official Held As Kremlin Continues Corruption Sweep

By RFE/RL's Russian Service May 23, 2024

A military court in Moscow has sent to pretrial detention Lieutenant General Vadim Shamarin, who is the latest top military official arrested in what the Kremlin has called its ongoing fight against corruption.

Representatives of the 235th Garrison Military Court told RBK news agency on May 23 that Shamarin, who also leads the armed forces' main directorate for communications, is suspected of accepting a bribe of an "especially large amount."

Also on May 23, several media outlets and news agencies in Russia quoted sources as saying that investigators detained Vladimir Verteletsky, a top official of the Defense Ministry's Department for Handling Armament Orders, on corruption charges. Those reports have yet to be officially confirmed.

"The fight against corruption is a consistent work. It is not a campaign; it is a constant ongoing work," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on May 23 after news spread of Shamarin's detention.

President Vladimir Putin recently relieved his close ally, Sergei Shoigu, of his duties as defense minister.

Shoigu had been accused of incompetence and corruption by mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who in June last year attempted a mutiny while demanding the dismissal of Shoigu and the military chief of staff, General Valery Gerasimov. Prigozhin was later killed in a plane crash that many believe was retaliation by the Kremlin for the mutiny.

The move to detain Shamarin comes days after the former commander of Russia's 58th Army, Major General Ivan Popov, was arrested on fraud charges reportedly linked to the alleged embezzlement of 100 million rubles ($1.1 million) allocated for military needs in Ukraine's Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya region.

It also followed the arrest last week of Lieutenant General Yury Kuznetsov, who headed the personnel directorate of Russia's Defense Ministry, in an alleged corruption case.

In late April, police detained Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov on bribe-taking charges and a court later sent him to pretrial detention for at least two months.

Putin replaced Shoigu with former First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov, 65, a politician who specializes in economic matters. The move is seen as part of a strategy to make the armed forces more streamlined with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine now in its third year.

On May 20, Putin appointed Oleg Savelyev, the former minister on Crimean affairs, to the post of deputy defense minister.

The 58-year-old Savelyev also served as deputy minister for economic development and as the auditor at the Audit Chamber, a parliamentary group that serves as a financial watchdog.

With reporting by Kommersant, RBK, TASS, and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-corruption-shamarin- detention/32960458.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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Putin Signs Decree on Compensation for US Damage to Russia, Central Bank

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Thursday that outlines steps for claiming compensation from the United States for the damage done to Russia and its central bank.

The decree, titled "On the Special Procedure for Compensation for Damage Caused to Russia and the Russian Central Bank in Connection with Unfriendly Actions Taken by the United States," was listed in the official legal database.

The decree allows the state and the central bank to seek redress in court if US actions result in unlawful loss of property.

Property of the United States or US-linked individuals in Russia, including citizens, tax residents and their associates, may be used to generate compensation for plaintiffs.

A commission for the oversight of foreign investment in Russia will be tasked with assessing damage claims and identifying assets that could be used to pay off damages in line with the principle of proportionality. These include movable and immovable property of the US and associated individuals, bonds and shares in Russian legal entities, as well as property rights.

The Russian government has four months to introduce amendments to Russian laws that would allow for the implementation of the presidential decree.

The G7, led by the United States and the European Union, have been discussing ways to confiscate the Russian assets since the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. Earlier in May, US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen said she planned to urge the Group of Seven partners to collectively find a way to unlock the value of Russian sovereign assets for the benefit of Ukraine. The issue is expected to be discussed at the G7 summit in the Italian region of Apulia from June 13-15.

An estimated $300 billion in Russian central bank assets are frozen in Western accounts. The Kremlin has maintained that any attempts to confiscate Russian assets would violate international law.

A Sputnik

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Potential Northern Sea Route Projects With India Under Discussion, Rosatom Says

Sputnik News

20240523

SEVERSK, Russia (Sputnik) - Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom said on Thursday it was discussing potential joint projects on the Northern Sea Route with New Delhi, with a focus on the use of the corridor in the interests of the Indian economy.

"We are starting to cooperate not only in the nuclear field. There are also discussions about joint projects on the Northern Sea Route and the use of this global transport corridor in the interests of the Indian economy," Rosatom head Alexey Likhachev told reporters.

Rosatom and its Indian counterparts are also negotiating a potential partnership in scientific and technological fields such as quantum computing, communications, and quantum sensors, Likhachev said.

"Intensive negotiations, I think, will bring us to a completely new quality level of interaction with India not only in traditional nuclear competencies, but also in a number of projects on technological sovereignty," he added.

The Northern Sea Route is over 3,000 nautical miles (3,500 miles) long and connects the Barents Sea and the Bering Strait. It is the shortest route between Europe and Asia, as well as the shortest sea route between Russia's Far East and its European part. The entire route takes from seven to 15 days on board a ship with an ice-breaking capacity. In addition to being shorter than the alternative southern route via the Suez Canal, the northern route also poses no piracy risks for the ships and crew.

Rosatom has been the infrastructure operator of the Northern Sea Route since 2018.

A Sputnik

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Russian Military Court Arrests Deputy Chief of General Staff Shamarin in Bribery Case

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Deputy Chief of the Russian General Staff and head of the Russian armed forces' main communications directorate Vadim Shamarin has been arrested in a bribery case, the 235th garrison military court told Sputnik on Thursday.

"The court granted the investigation's request to select a preventive measure in the form of detention for Vadim Shamarin," the court said.

Earlier, the former commander of the 58th army of the Russian armed forces, Major General Ivan Popov, was arrested on large-scale fraud charges.

Popov was charged with fraud on a particularly large scale, the representative added.

A Sputnik

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Populist parties push for gains in South African elections

By Kate Bartlett May 23, 2024

Many South African political parties are using populist rhetoric ahead of what is being described as the most important election in 30 years.

One South African political party running in the May 29 elections wants mass expulsions of foreign migrants and the return of the death penalty. Another party regularly sings about killing White farmers. Yet another pushes for changing from "Roman-Dutch law" to African traditions and wants to send teenage mothers to a former prison island.

Gayton McKenzie, the leader of a small opposition party named the Patriotic Alliance and who spent 17 years in jail for robbery, speaks a law-and-order message.

"As a person that grew up as a gangster, that grew up as a criminal, a person that understands the underworld, I'm here today to tell you the only way to stop the crime, the killings," he said at a rally earlier this year. "Under my regime, if you kill somebody, you shall be killed also. ... We want law and order back in South Africa."

Like populist leaders the world over, he positions himself as an outsider taking on a supposedly elite and corrupt establishment.

Beyond advocating for the death penalty, he has also promised to "bring God back into schools." Immigration is his other key theme, in which he constantly rails against undocumented migrants from other African nations, blaming them for most of the country's woes a from the unemployment crisis to crime. He's even raised the idea of building a border wall.

Political analyst Tessa Dooms said she sees similarities between the political rhetoric in South Africa and the United States under former President Donald Trump, who is seeking a return to power in November.

"I think what's becoming clear in this election is that there is almost a Trumpian type of moment that is developing where people are resisting establishment politics and big political parties particularly because they feel like those parties are far removed from them, are not accountable to them, and are not engaged with them," Dooms said.

The Economic Freedom Fighters, or EFF a the nation's third-largest party a is South Africa's original populist rabble-rouser. Its red-beret-wearing leader, Julius Malema, has twice been charged with hate speech and for firing a gun at a public rally.

The EFF advocates "radical economic transformation" a the nationalization of land and banks. Malema has also suggested arming the Hamas militant group.

Established less than a year ago, Umkhonto we Sizwe, or the MK party, which is predicted to get the third- or fourth-largest share of the vote, has also assumed the populist mantle.

It's led and represented by former President Jacob Zuma, although he can't run for parliament due to a 2021 prison sentence he was given for contempt of court.

Zuma, who was forced to resign as president in 2018 due to corruption scandals, has an axe to grind with his former party, the governing African National Congress. He also retains considerable popularity among fellow ethnic Zulus in his home province, despite allegations against him.

On the campaign trail this year, he has railed against South Africa's progressive constitution, what he calls "white law," and argued that traditional chiefs and leaders should be given more power.

He's made derogatory comments about LGBTQ+ rights a which are protected by law in South Africa.

Zuma has also floated the idea of dealing with teenage pregnancy by sending young mothers to continue their education on Robben Island a the former prison where he and Nelson Mandela, who would also go on to become president, were jailed under Apartheid.

Another party, the right-wing Afrikaans party Freedom Front Plus, advocates for the secession of the Western Cape province, dubbed CapeXit.

As a country, South Africa has many conditions that make it fertile breeding ground for populism, analysts say. Unemployment is among the highest in the world, many still live in dire poverty, there are almost daily power cuts due to a flailing electricity grid, and there are high rates of murder and sexual violence.

"People are just exhausted and just want to know there are people who are going to fix things fast and are willing to do whatever it takes to get those things resolved," Dooms said.

This month's elections are being seen as pivotal, because 30 years after the end of apartheid, some polls project the ANC could get under 50% for the first time and be forced to enter a coalition government.

But with small populist parties on the rise, the concern now is who they would join with.

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Iran's interim president pledges Tehran's full support for resistance axis, Syria

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 10:33 AM

Interim Iranian President Mohammad Mokhber assures the Syrian leader that Tehran will continue its full support for the resistance axis, particularly Syria.

Mokhber made the remarks in a phone conversation with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on Thursday as the latter offered his condolences to the Iranian government and nation over the martyrdom of President Ebrahim Raeisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and their companions in a helicopter crash in the northeastern province of East Azarbaijan on Sunday.

Mokhber thanked Syria's move to declare three days of mourning and the presence of the country's prime minister and his accompanying delegation in Tehran to take part in the funeral processions held for the Iranian martyrs.

"Syria is a strategic partner and a constant friend of the Iranian nation," he added.

He noted that Assad's message and the presence of the Syrian delegation in Tehran were a consolation for the Iranian people.

Iran lost Raeisi and Amir-Abdollahian as two influential figures, which was a great loss for all Iranians, he said.

The interim president emphasized that all institutions and bodies are fulfilling their duties like before, which is indicative of Iran's strong power and prudent leadership of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

On Sunday, the helicopter carrying Raeisi and his entourage crashed as it was on its way to Tabriz, the capital of East Azarbaijan Province, from a location on the border with the Republic of Azerbaijan where the Iranian president had opened a major dam project.

Amir-Abdollahian and two senior provincial officials along with crew members and bodyguard also died in the crash.

The Syrian president, for his part, said he was eager to express his condolences to Ayatollah Khamenei in person and added that he will travel to Tehran as soon as possible.

Assad emphasized that just like the late commander of the Quds Force of the IRGC Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, the late Iranian president was an influential figure in the region and the world, whose memory will remain etched in the minds of the Syrian nation and government.

Raeisi always fought against oppression and global unilateralism and supported the resistance front, the oppressed nations in the region and across the world as well as the Palestinian cause, he said.

Assad expressed Syria's full solidarity with Iran in all circumstances and said he is confident that the Islamic Republic is able to overcome this painful incident.

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Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Faisal Mekdad

23 May 2024 19:39

961-23-05-2024

On May 23, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Syrian Arab Republic Faisal Mekdad, who was in Moscow on a private trip.

The foreign ministers shared their opinions on topical issues on the international and regional agenda, elaborating on the developments in and around Syria, including in the context of the ongoing armed escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict zone. Special focus was placed on promoting a comprehensive settlement in the SAR in strict compliance with the principles of respect for its sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, as well as the post-conflict reconstruction of the country.

Practical aspects of further deepening bilateral multifaceted interaction were substantively considered, including joint events to mark the 80th anniversary of the establishment of Russian-Syrian diplomatic relations in July.

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President Lai pledges to safeguard Taiwan despite 'external threats'

ROC Central News Agency

05/23/2024 07:24 PM

Taoyuan, May 23 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te () pledged to stand side by side with the military and safeguard Taiwan during a visit to a Marine base on Thursday afternoon, just hours after China launched two days of military exercises surrounding Taiwan.

"My responsibility is to safeguard the nation and ensure the safety of all citizens," Lai said as he visited the 66th brigade of the Marine Corps in Taoyuan for the first time in his capacity as the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces.

In the face of "external challenges and threats, we will continue to defend the values of freedom and democracy, and protect regional peace and stability," Lai said, noting that he would "stand alongside" all military personnel and "protect national security."

Lai urged all civilians to rest assured as he expressed confidence in the military's ability to stand firm at their posts and work to ensure national security.

He reiterated his commitment to continue to push for defense reforms, bolster the country's defense capabilities, and ensure better care for all military personnel.

The president did not, however, directly comment on the previously unannounced military exercises launched by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Thursday morning, just three days after Lai was sworn in.

The PLA kicked off a series of joint military exercises "in the Taiwan Strait, and the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin" from 7:45 a.m. Thursday, according to reports by China's state media Xinhua News Agency.

Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin are all Taiwan-controlled territories in the Taiwan Strait close to China's southeast coast.

Spokesperson for the theater command Li Xi () was quoted as saying the exercises were intended as "strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces and a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces," without elaborating.

(By Yeh Chen and Teng Pei-ju)

Enditem/kb

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China's military intimidation only escalates cross-strait tensions: MAC

ROC Central News Agency

05/23/2024 10:46 PM

Taipei, May 23 (CNA) Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) strongly protested the military exercises launched by China surrounding Taiwan on Thursday, stating that intimidation only escalates tensions in the Taiwan Strait and destabilizes the region.

The MAC expressed strong objection at China's launching of military exercises around Taiwan proper and the areas surrounding the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen and Matsu Islands, said Liang Wen-chieh (), deputy head and spokesperson of the MAC, Taiwan's top government agency handling cross-strait affairs.

"We demand the Chinese Communist Party cease its irrational military provocations," Liang said.

Quoting data from a recent MAC poll, he said that over 90 percent of Taiwanese people disapprove of the continued activities of Chinese military aircraft and ships in Taiwan's vicinity.

"Beijing should fully understand that intimidation cannot win people's hearts but only escalate cross-strait tensions and destabilize the region," Liang added.

Following President Lai Ching-te's () inaugural address on Monday, the People's Republic of China (PRC) said the speech was an attempt to promote Taiwanese independence, in particular Lai's statement that the Republic of China (ROC) -- Taiwan's official name -- and the PRC are not subordinate to each other.

Li Xi (), a Chinese People's Liberation Army spokesperson was quoted by China's state-run Xinhua News Agency as saying the exercises that started Thursday morning were a "strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces and a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces," without elaborating.

In the press conference, Liang reiterated that in Lai's inaugural address, the president emphasized that when it comes to cross-strait policy, the new administration will uphold the "Four Commitments" -- an approach to cross-strait policy proposed by his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen () -- and will neither yield nor provoke, while maintaining the status quo.

"Our goal of maintaining cross-strait peace and the status quo has not changed. Our direction of promoting continued cross-strait exchanges has not changed. Our determination to defend Taiwan's free and democratic constitutional system has also not changed," he stated.

In Lai's speech on Monday, he called on China to engage in cooperation with Taiwan's government, proposing that it could "start with the resumption of tourism on a reciprocal basis, and allow degree students to enroll at Taiwanese institutions."

Liang said that through the Ministry of Education's admissions channel, the authorities have already asked the Chinese authorities whether it is possible to permit Chinese degree students to study in Taiwan but have yet to receive a response.

Regarding tourism, Liang stated that the Chinese authorities have previously put forward some demands and preconditions that do not meet Taiwan's expectations, such as only allowing tourists from Fujian province to visit Taiwan.

"However, we will still consider these demands, and we will actively address this issue," Liang said.

In August 2019, China halted independent travel to Taiwan, citing the strained state of cross-strait relations. In 2020, group travel to Taiwan and the enrollment of Chinese degree students at institutions in Taiwan were also suspended. These measures are still in effect.

On the other hand, Taiwan allows its citizens to study in or travel independently to China, but not as part of tour groups arranged by Taiwanese travel agencies.

(By Sunny Lai)

Enditem/kb

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Chinese military drills around Taiwan could be first in series: Expert

ROC Central News Agency

05/23/2024 09:36 PM

Taipei, May 23 (CNA) China's military exercises around Taiwan, launched just three days after the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te (), whom Beijing has labeled a "separatist," could mark the beginning of a series of such drills, a military expert said Thursday.

The Chinese military announced earlier Thursday the immediate start of two days of military drills around Taiwan, and the Taipei-controlled islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin, in what it said was "powerful punishment" for those who promote Taiwan independence.

The drills, code-named Joint Sword-2024A, involve the army, navy, air force and rocket force, China's Eastern Theater Command said on a series of social media posts.

Delving deeper into the matter, Chieh Chung (), a researcher at the Taipei-based Association of Strategic Foresight, told CNA that given the code name and its use of the letter A, the drills could open the door to potential follow-ups this year.

According to Chieh, the scheduled areas for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) exercises mark the first time in recent years that Taiwan's outlying islands have been included. He said that this inclusion is intended to simulate a full-scale Chinese armed invasion of Taiwan.

The locations of the two previous Chinese military drills around Taiwan in August 2022 and April 2023 did not include the outlying islands, according to Chieh.

Commenting on Chinese ships' entering "restricted waters" around the Taiwan-controlled outlying islands of Dongyin in Matsu and Wuqiu in Kinmen on Thursday morning, Chieh said it is possible that Beijing is using Lai's inaugural speech as an excuse to break a long-standing tacit agreement with Taiwan not to cross into the restricted waters of Dongyin and Wuqiu.

China could be planning to sail into the waters on a regular basis in an attempt to establish its jurisdiction over the area, he added.

China's move is an apparent response to Lai's inaugural speech and aims to place pressure on Washington to take action to help avert crisis or conflict in the Taiwan Strait, he said.

In his inaugural address, Lai called on Beijing to "face the reality of the Republic of China's existence" and cease its political and military intimidation against Taiwan, saying the Republic of China (Taiwan's official title) and the People's Republic of China "are not subordinate to each other."

Meanwhile, Chen Shih-min (), an associate professor in the Department of Political Science at National Taiwan University, said that Beijing is using the military exercises to express its dissatisfaction over Lai's inaugural speech.

Chen believes that the military exercises are primarily a political move to declare the Chinese Communist Party's "dissatisfaction" and "warning" to the outside world.

Through this grand gesture and the news coverage by international media outlets, China is once again asserting that "Taiwan is a part of China," Chen said.

Lin Ying-yu (), an assistant professor at Tamkang University, also said China's move is absolutely a reaction to Lai's inaugural address.

Lin said he believed the Chinese military exercises will focus on joint sea-air combat readiness and no missiles will be launched.

Also Thursday, in an interview with CNA, Shu Hsiao-huang (), an associate research fellow at the government-funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research, described the drills as blatantly provocative given that the designated areas of the drills are within Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) and close to the island's contiguous zone, which is 24 nautical miles (44 km) off its coast.

An ADIZ is a self-declared area in which a country claims the right to identify, locate and control approaching foreign aircraft but is not part of its territorial airspace as defined by international law.

In addition, Taiwan's deputy defense minister Po Horng-huei () said the drills are China's attempt to claim control of the region.

However, the international community is not happy to see such irrational actions that unilaterally challenge regional peace and stability, Po added.

In August 2022, China conducted large-scale live-fire military exercises around Taiwan immediately after a visit by then-U.S. House speaker Nancy Pelosi. During the series of exercises, the scale of which was unprecedented, China declared six zones as no-go areas for other ships and aircraft.

However, no such zones were declared this time around, which demonstrates Beijing's intention to gain recognition of its control over the region, according to Po.

(By Lee Ya-wen, Wu Shu-wei, Lai Yu-chen and Evelyn Kao)

Enditem/AW

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Taiwan's political parties criticize Chinese military drills

ROC Central News Agency

05/23/2024 07:15 PM

Taipei, May 23 (CNA) The opposition Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party (TPP) criticized China after Beijing announced military exercises around Taiwan on Thursday, with the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) noting that China is seeking to intimidate Taiwan and poses a global threat to its democratic allies.

The People's Liberation Army's (PLA) Eastern Theater Command announced on Thursday the commencement of "Joint Sword-2024A" military exercises in the waters and airspace around Taiwan.

According to a report by China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, the drills focus on joint sea-air combat-readiness patrols, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes on key targets.

"The drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Strait, and the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin," it added.

KMT caucus secretary-general, Hung Mong-kai (), representing the nation's largest opposition party, noted that Taiwanese find such actions intolerable and stressed the importance of defending Taiwan's sovereignty.

Hung also called for government transparency regarding intelligence and contingency plans to alleviate public concern and establish trustworthy communication channels with China to prevent further escalation in cross-strait tensions.

In a statement, the KMT urged caution over the PLA military exercises, calling on the defense ministry to assess the need for heightened readiness to ensure national security.

The party also called for restraint and urged Beijing to avoid unnecessary actions, emphasizing the importance of preserving cross-strait peace and development.

TPP caucus convener Huang Kuo-chang () criticized China's provocative behavior, asserting that it undermines peace and stability across the strait and urged restraint from Beijing.

When asked about the correlation between President Lai's inauguration speech and the exercises, Huang declined to speculate on China's motives but emphasized that provocations would not improve cross-strait relations.

In a statement, the TPP strongly condemned the military drills, urged China to stop destabilizing the Taiwan Strait and called on the Ministry of National Defense to respond cautiously.

DPP caucus secretary-general Wu Szu-yao () condemned China's military exercises as intimidation tactics directed at President Lai and the new government, which she said extended beyond Taiwan to global democratic allies.

She expressed confidence in Taiwan's military preparedness and urged public support for the armed forces.

Wu highlighted the strategic nature of Beijing's move during a period of internal political discourse in Taiwan, comparing it to Mao Zedong's () encirclement strategy, emphasizing the need for vigilance against various forms of Chinese coercion, from military exercises to legislative disputes.

Meanwhile, DPP legislator Puma Shen () noted the timing of China's military exercises coincided with the departure of foreign dignitaries from Taiwan, likening it to previous instances such as the visit of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

He highlighted China's dual strategy of intimidation and attrition, aiming to divert attention from internal issues and disrupt Taiwan's political landscape.

Shen emphasized the significance of events since February, including illegal fishing incidents near Kinmen and ongoing parliamentary disputes, as part of China's broader strategy targeting Taiwan's stability and sovereignty.

(By Kuo Chien-shen, Fan Cheng-hsiang, Lin Ching-yin, Liu Kuan-ting and Evelyn Yang)

Enditem/AW

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Taiwanese fugitive in China stripped of citizenship

ROC Central News Agency

05/23/2024 04:42 PM

Taipei, May 23 (CNA) A Taiwanese fugitive in China, who allegedly has become a member of a political organization there, has lost his citizenship in his home country, according to Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC).

Lien Shang-ming's (eaSeS) Taiwanese citizenship was revoked after it was found that he had obtained a household registration in China, the MAC said in statement issued Wednesday.

Taiwan citizens are prohibited from registering households in China, holding a Chinese passport, or serving in China's political, military or administrative organizations, the MAC said, citing the Act Governing Relations Between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area.

Lien has been deemed a fugitive since he was charged with offenses related to vote buying in Taiwan and he is currently under investigation by Taiwan authorities because he allegedly has become a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the MAC said.

According to a Jan. 25 report on a media site in Beijing, Lien is a member of the CPPCC's Hunan Province chapter and director of a service center for Taiwan investors in Yueyang City.

The MAC said Lien has been on a wanted list in Taiwan since 2020, when the Taipei District Prosecutors Office charged him for illegally trying to sway voters in Taiwan's presidential election that year.

He was accused of using Chinese funds to woo support for then-Kuomintang presidential candidate Han Kuo-yu (eYac) by hosting fundraisers among Taiwanese expatriates in China and subsidizing airfares for them to return to Taiwan, in collaboration with six other Taiwanese citizens there.

One of the six, Lin Huai (z), who was head of a Taiwan investors association in Changsha at the time, is now serving a 38-month prison sentence in Taiwan after he was convicted of election interference crimes.

Lien, meanwhile, has been living in Yueyang since 1999 and is married to a Chinese woman, according to Chinese media reports.

In 2007, he became head of the Taiwan investors service center there and has since been organizing a series of annual activities for young people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

(By Flor Wang, Lin Chang-shun and Wu Po-wei)

Enditem/pc

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PLA holds joint drills surrounding Taiwan island to punish secessionist forces

Global Times

Outlying islands included in exercise to deter secessionist forces

By Liu Xuanzun, Guo Yuandan and Fan Wei Published: May 23, 2024 07:49 AM Updated: May 23, 2024 12:10 PM

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Thursday morning launched a military exercise surrounding the island of Taiwan in a move aiming to punish "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces and to send a warning to external interference forces following Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te's separatist inaugural speech on May 20.

Designed to surround the island of Taiwan from both the east and the west, the exercises display the PLA's strike capability across all directions of the island without any blind spots, forming a situation where the island is pinned down from both sides, experts said.

The PLA Eastern Theater Command started joint military drills surrounding the island of Taiwan from 7:45 am on Thursday, the theater command said in a press release early on the day.

The drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Straits, the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, the theater command said, attaching a map depicting nine exercise zones surrounding the island of Taiwan.

Senior Captain Li Xi, a spokesperson of the PLA Eastern Theater Command, said that military services including the army, navy, air force and rocket force of the theater command are being organized to conduct the joint drills, code-named Joint Sword-2024A, from Thursday to Friday.

The drills focus on joint sea-air combat-readiness patrols, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes on key targets, Li said, adding that the exercises involve the patrol of vessels and planes closing in on areas around the island of Taiwan and integrated operations inside and outside the island chain to test the real joint combat capabilities of the command's forces.

Li said the drills also serve as a strong punishment for the separatist acts of "Taiwan independence" forces and a stern warning against interference and provocation by external forces.

The exercises by the PLA came after Lai, the new regional leader on the island of Taiwan, made an inaugural speech on Monday in which he stubbornly adhered to "Taiwan independence," loudly propagated the fallacy of secession, incited confrontation and antagonism across the Taiwan Straits, and expressed his intention to "rely on external forces to seek 'independence'" and "seek 'independence' by force."

Since then-US house speaker Nancy Pelosi's provocative visit to the island of Taiwan in August 2022, the PLA has organized several rounds of large-scale exercises as countermeasures to provocations by "Taiwan independence" secessionists and their collusions with external forces, in addition to holding regular patrols and training exercises in the region.

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a routine press conference on Thursday that the joint exercises safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, forcefully punish "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces' separatist moves, and firmly warn against interference and provocations by external forces.

The drills fully conform to international law and practices, and are completely rightful and necessary, Wang said.

Chen Binhua, spokesperson of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said in a statement on Thursday that the PLA drills are a resolute punishment for the Taiwan regional leader's provocative May 20 speech that sought "independence," a stern warning to external forces that support "Taiwan independence" and interfere in China's internal affairs, and a rightful move to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Tong Zhen, a research fellow at the Academy of Military Sciences of the PLA, told the Global Times on Thursday that the latest exercises feature an integrated plan covering the main island of Taiwan and its outlying islands.

For the outlying islands, the drills cover the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, while for the main island of Taiwan, combat alert patrols surround the island, with warships and warplanes closing in on multiple locations only steps away from its coastlines, effectively pressuring the island's so-called space for military defense, Tong said.

Meanwhile, in addition to the PLA's exercises, the coast guard of East China's Fujian Province on Thursday launched a comprehensive law enforcement exercise in waters around Wuqiu and Dongyin islands in a move to test its joint patrol, rapid reaction and emergency response capabilities, Gan Yu, a spokesperson of the China Coast Guard (CCG), said on Thursday in a press release.

A map illustrating the location of this exercise released by the CCG on Thursday shows that the Fujian Coast Guard 14606 flotilla circled around Wuqiu, coming as close as 2.8 nautical miles to Dawuqiu and three nautical miles to Xiaowuqiu. Meanwhile, in the direction of Dongyin island, the Fujian Coast Guard 14607 flotilla came as close as 3.2 nautical miles to Dongyin island. The actions in both directions effectively shattered the Taiwan authorities' claim of so-called restricted waters.

It is the first time the mainland's coast guard vessels have entered waters around Wuqiu and Dongyin islands, Tong said.

Designed to serve as a strong deterrence and warning, the exercise destroyed the notion of so-called restricted waters imposed by the island of Taiwan, Tong said.

"Wuqiu and Dongyin islands are outlying islands of the main island of Taiwan, with high strategic importance and high military value. They are close to the mainland and oversee key transportation routes in the Taiwan Straits. Taiwan's military views them as the front line in their defense operations and a crucial point for implementing 'multiple layers of deterrence'," a source close to the matter told the Global Times on Thursday.

"The CCG is clearly issuing a warning that if the situation further deteriorates, the Kinmen model might be replicated in other areas of the Taiwan Straits," the source said.

The joint operation conducted by China's maritime law enforcement forces and various military branches of the PLA Eastern Theater Command in the Taiwan Straits undoubtedly holds historical significance, experts said.

The PLA's exercises are designed with both the east and the west of the island of Taiwan in mind, Tong said. "To the west of the main island of Taiwan, the main operations are being held in waters around Wuqiu and Dongyin islands, while to the east of the main island, joint forces are organized to carry out sea and land assault drills, showing that the PLA has the ability to strike all directions of the island without any blind spots, forming a situation where the island is pinned down from both sides," she said.

The exercises feature the acts of destroying, trapping and blocking in one move, experts said.

"Destroying means removing and paralyzing the support for the 'Taiwan independence' forces by simulating strikes on major military and political targets in the northern part of the island under the PLA's strong reconnaissance, early warning and information support systems. Trapping means targeting the bases of the 'Taiwan independence' forces, as the PLA will pinch the island's maritime gateways such as Kaohsiung and trap the island's naval forces within their ports. Blocking means cutting off external logistics support, as the PLA forces are carrying out simulated strikes in the sea and air near the offshore routes off Hualien, demonstrating the ability to seize power and control the island," Tong said.

It forms a powerful deterrent against the separatist Lai administration and issues a serious warning against interference and provocation by external forces, Tong said.

Observers also noted that the codename of the exercise, Joint Sword-2024A, indicates that there might be more exercises to come with code-names Joint Sword-2024B and Joint Sword-2024C should "Taiwan independence" secessionists and external interference forces continue to make provocations.

'Cross-Straits Lethality'

With the exercises underway, the PLA Eastern Theater Command released a set of posters themed "Cross-Straits Lethality," depicting some of its weaponry aimed at "Taiwan independence" secessionists, including the J-20 stealth fighter jet, the J-16 multirole fighter jet, the Type 052D guided missile destroyer, the Type 071 comprehensive landing ship, the DF-16A short-range ballistic missile, and the modularized long-range multiple launch rocket system.

These are just some of the typical weapons and equipment in the military preparations for dealing with the Taiwan question, a Beijing-based military expert who requested anonymity told the Global Times on Thursday.

In the air, the J-20 can take advantage of its stealth capability and break down hostile air defenses, while the J-16 can drop a large number of munitions on ground targets; at sea; the Type 052D can seize control and block maritime access to the island, while the Type 071 can carry heavily equipped landing troops to cross the Straits; the DF-16A can conduct precision strikes on high-value military and political targets; and the modularized long-range multiple launch rocket system can ensure artillery fire superiority with relatively low cost, the above-quoted expert said.

Videos obtained by the Global Times on Thursday show dozens of warplanes, multiple destroyers and frigates of the PLA Eastern Theater Command encircling the island of Taiwan and its outlying islands, conducting mock strikes during the exercise.

The PLA Eastern Theater Command conducted sea assault, land attack, air defense and anti-submarine exercises in waters and air space north and south of Taiwan island on Thursday, according to the theater command's spokesperson.

The PLA has a complete arsenal available to resolve the Taiwan question if prospects for peaceful reunification no longer exist, and the "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces and external interference forces should fully realize that the PLA is fully determined and capable of safeguarding China's national sovereignty, territorial integrity and development interests, analysts said.

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PLA launches justified joint drills around island of Taiwan with warns against foreign interference: Chinese FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 23, 2024 07:38 PM

It's fully legitimate and justified for Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA)'s Eastern Theater Command to launch joint drills around the island of Taiwan, safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Thursday, in response to a US General's remarks calling the drill "concerning."

The PLA Eastern Theater Command started joint military drills surrounding the island of Taiwan from 7:45 am on Thursday, the theater command said in a press release early on the day.

The drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Straits, the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, the theater command said, attaching a map depicting nine exercise zones surrounding the island of Taiwan.

US Lieutenant General Stephen Sklenka on Thursday called the drill "concerning." "Just because we expect that behavior does not mean that we should not condemn it, and we need to condemn it publicly," the US Indo-Pacific Command deputy commander told an audience in Canberra.

In response, Wang said the drill is a strong deterrent to "Taiwan secessionist" forces as well as a serious warning for those foreign forces who interfere in China's internal affairs and incite provocations.

Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, which is both a historical fact and the status quo that will never change in the future, and "Taiwan independence" is a dead end.

The Chinese people's determination to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity is unwavering, all "Taiwan secessionist" acts will be met with a head-on attack by more than 1.4 billion Chinese people, and all "Taiwan secessionist" forces will crash and burn in the face of China's realization of complete reunification of the historical momentum, Wang noted.

We urge the US to stop condoning support for the forces of "Taiwan secessionists" and stop interfering in China's internal affairs. Any act that jeopardizes China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity will certainly be met with a resolute and forceful response from the Chinese side, Wang said.

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China, GCC states urged to align plans for growth

10:16, May 24, 2024 By Wang Keju and Wang Qingyun ( China Daily

President Xi Jinping has said that China stands ready to promote solidarity and pursue cooperation with countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council to write a new chapter in China-GCC relations.

Xi made the remark in a congratulatory letter sent to the China-GCC Countries Forum on Industrial and Investment Cooperation, which opened on Thursday in Xiamen, Fujian province. The letter was read out at the forum by Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang.

China and GCC countries enjoy a long history of friendly exchanges, Xi said, noting that in 2022, the first China-GCC Summit opened up new prospects for deepening cooperation between the two sides.

Xi said that deepening industrial and investment cooperation between China and GCC countries will help strengthen the alignment between the Belt and Road Initiative and the development strategies, visions and plans of GCC countries.

It will also help China and GCC countries make use of their own advantages to complement each other, jointly foster new growth engines and promote shared prosperity and development, he said.

The GCC is a regional grouping based in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Formed in 1981, the council makes economic policies across these Gulf nations, some of which are among the world's top fossil fuel exporters.

The trade value between China and GCC countries reached $315.8 billion in 2022, solidifying China's position as the council's top trading partner and its pivotal role as the leading destination for petrochemical product exports from within the regional grouping, data from the Ministry of Commerce showed.

Wang Guangda, secretary-general of the China-Arab Research Center on Reform and Development, said the economic complementarity between China and GCC nations has laid a solid foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation.

China boasts a vast consumer market and a well-established industrial system, while the six Gulf nations possess abundant energy resources and are scaling up efforts to diversify their economies and their energy mix, Wang said. Furthermore, there is a growing focus on exploring new areas of cooperation, such as infrastructure development, technology transfer, tourism and financial services, he added.

UAE Vice-President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the strength, scale and level of investment and industrial cooperation between China and GCC countries represent a pillar of a promising and fruitful future. China and GCC nations are together capable of making significant contributions to the future of the global industry and investment, he added.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Unprecedented CCG-PLA joint operation around Taiwan 'clear intent to deter'

Global Times

By Fan Wei Published: May 23, 2024 11:38 AM Updated: May 23, 2024 01:32 PM

A coast guard fleet of East China's Fujian Province on Thursday conducted law-enforcement drills in the waters near Wuqiu and Dongyin islands, the China Coast Guard (CCG) confirmed on Thursday. Earlier on the same day, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) started joint military drills surrounding the island of Taiwan from 7:45 in the morning. The PLA drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Straits, the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin.

The joint operation conducted by China's maritime law enforcement forces and various military branches of the PLA Eastern Theater Command in the Taiwan Straits undoubtedly hold historical significance, experts said.

A source close to the matter told the Global Times that during this operation, CCG vessels entered, for the first time, the so-called restricted waters of Wuqiu and Dongyin islands. This action demonstrated an upgrade in military-police cooperation, with a clear intent to deter "Taiwan independence" secessionists.

A map illustrating the location of this exercise released by the CCG on Thursday shows that the Fujian Coast Guard 14606 flotilla circled around Wuqiu, coming as close as 2.8 nautical miles to Dawuqiu and 3 nautical miles to Xiaowuqiu. Meanwhile, in the direction of Dongyin island, the Fujian Coast Guard 14607 flotilla came as close as 3.2 nautical miles to Dongyin island. The actions in both directions effectively shattered the Taiwan authorities' claim of the so-called restricted waters.

The source told the Global Times that the area the CCG chose for this exercise is highly significant. The released illustration is packed with information and carries a clear message of deterrence toward the Taiwan authorities.

"Wuqiu and Dongyin islands are outlying islands of the main island of Taiwan, with high strategic importance and high military value. They are close to the mainland and oversee key transportation routes in the Taiwan Straits. Taiwan's military views them as the front line in their defense operations and a crucial point for implementing 'multiple layers of deterrence.' During this island-encircling readiness patrol by the PLA, CCG vessels entered the so-called restricted waters of Wuqiu island and Dongyin island for the first time, with a clear intent to deter [the 'Taiwan independence' secessionists]," the source said.

The Fujian Coast Guard's maneuvers around Wuqiu and Dongyin islands has a clear flexibility, as shown in the exercise illustration released by the CCG. At Dongyin island, north of the Taiwan Straits, the Fujian Coast Guard 14607 flotilla moved from south to east and then to north, creating an "encircling" posture.

At Wuqiu island, closer to the central Taiwan Straits, the Fujian Coast Guard 14606 flotilla advanced from north to east and then to south, showcasing the rich variety of CCG enforcement methods.

The source said that the CCG employed various entry methods in this operation. According to the illustration showing the CCG vessels entering and exiting the so-called restricted waters, it is evident that some entered from the north side of Wuqiu island, while others from the south side of Dongyin island. The entries were made from different angles and positions, reflecting a degree of flexibility while also leaving room for further maneuvering.

This balance of determination and flexibility is also evident in the illustration released by the CCG.

Comparing the illustration with the previously released routine enforcement patrols by the Fujian Coast Guard near Kinmen, it is clear that the trajectory lines for this operation at Wuqiu and Dongyin islands are designed with an "arrowhead" shape, indicating a more aggressive posture.

Additionally, the previous patrol trajectory near Kinmen was marked in red for warning, while the current operation's trajectory lines are highlighted in yellow, emphasizing caution toward Taiwan authorities.

"The CCG is clearly issuing a warning that if the situation further deteriorates, the 'Kinmen' model might be replicated in other areas of the Taiwan Straits," the source said.

The source noted that if the Taiwan authorities remain obstinate, the mainland might replicate the Kinmen model, increasing punitive measures, including boarding and inspecting vessels from the island of Taiwan passing through Wuqiu and Dongyin islands, or entering the so-called prohibited waters, thereby completely shattering the Taiwan authorities' perception of so-called restricted waters around the outer islands.

This comprehensive enforcement exercise the CCG conducted on Taiwan's outlying islands coincides significantly with the joint training exercises executed by various military branches of the PLA Eastern Theater Command.

The illustration of the Joint Sword-2024A exercise released by the Eastern Theater Command also marks a larger area around Wuqiu and Dongyin islands. The Eastern Theater Command said that this exercise involved joint sea-air readiness patrols, joint battlefield control exercises, and precise joint strikes on key targets, incorporating forces from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Force.

Gan Yu, a spokesperson of the China Coast Guard, said the drill is aimed at testing the coast guard fleet's capabilities in joint maritime patrol and emergency response.

The source also noted that the upgrade in military-police coordination during this operation is a major highlight.

"The CCG's patrol around Wuqiu and Dongyin islands, along with their entry into the so-called restricted waters, was complemented by the Eastern Theater Command's main combat ships and aircraft circling outside to support the CCG vessels' enforcement patrols. This demonstrates sophisticated planning and efficient coordination. This collaboration not only reflects internal coordination within the PLA but also extends to an upgrade in the military-police cooperation," the source said.

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Beijing launches surprise 'punishment' drills encircling Chinese Taipei

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 10:43 AM

Beijing has launched a two-day military drill in the waters and airspace around the self-governing island of Chinese Taipei, as "punishment" for what it called the "separatist acts" of holding an election and inaugurating a new president.

The Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency reported that the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) started the drills on Thursday early morning in the Taiwan Strait, the north, south and east of the self-ruled island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

The drills are the first substantive response from China to swearing-in of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Monday, after he won the election in January. Both Lai and his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, are from the pro-sovereignty Democratic Progressive party (DPP), which Beijing considers to be separatists.

In Lai's first address to the public after taking his oath, he said that "the Republic of China, Taiwan, is a sovereign and independent nation with sovereignty resting in the people" and stressed that his government would make no concessions on its democracy and freedoms.

Dozens of fighter jets armed with live missiles were part of the mock strikes, code-named Joint Sword-2024A that targeted high-value military assets, such as ships and warplanes, Chinese military Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Naval Colonel Li Xi told CCTV.

Li called the drills a "strong punishment" for "separatist acts," adding that the exercises are "a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces," Xinhua reported.

China's military said its drills focus on joint sea-air combat-readiness patrols, precision strikes on key targets, and integrated operations inside and outside the island to test the "joint real combat capabilities" of its forces.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Defense in the self-ruled island has condemned China's military exercises around the self-ruled island, adding that Taipei has dispatched naval, air, and ground forces to "defend the [island's] sovereignty."

The ministry said it had placed its military on "high alert" in response to China's drills, which it described as "irrational provocations and actions that disrupt regional peace and stability."

Moreover, China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) issued a statement on Wednesday, firmly stating its stance against any form of "Taiwan independence' separatist activities" and vowed to take action against the DPP authorities for collaborating with external forces in their pursuit of independence.

China has stepped up military activities around the island ever since Tsai Ing-wen was elected for her first term as president in 2016. It has often taken more aggressive measures during meetings between Taiwanese officials and US politicians, a crucial ally of Taiwan, and initiated an unprecedented set of military exercises after a visit by former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in August 2022.

Mainland China reportedly aims to reunify Chinese Taipei by 2027, a timeframe that will fall in Lai's term in office. China has sovereignty over Chinese Taipei and almost the entirety of the global community recognize that sovereignty under the internationally recognized "One China" policy. It means states would not establish diplomatic contact with the secessionist government in Taipei.

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Bill giving sweeping powers to lawmakers sparks protests in Taiwan

The pro-China Kuomintang says change is needed, but critics say the bill could subvert the island's democracy.

By Huang Chun-mei for RFA Mandarin 2024.05.23 -- A controversial move by Taiwan's Kuomintang nationalist party to push ahead with legislation that would boost the power of lawmakers at the expense of the executive branch has sparked protests demanding it be tabled amid fears it could boost Chinese influence over the democratic island's government and threaten national security.

The move by the party, which favors closer ties with China, and which now commands a majority in the parliament, drew thousands of protesters onto the streets of Taipei on Tuesday. They gathered outside the Legislative Yuan holding up placards that read "Withdraw the bill, protect our democracy!" "Selling out the people!" and "Democracy killers," the island's Central News Agency reported.

Many among the crowd were supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party, or DPP, whose newly elected President Lai Ching-te was sworn in on Monday. His ascension came amid increased military activity by China's People's Liberation Army around the island, which has never been ruled by Beijing, nor formed part of the People's Republic of China.

At issue is proposed legislation proposed by the Kuomintang, or KMT, and its ally, the Taiwan People's Party, or TPP, that would grant greater powers to lawmakers to investigate, sanction and demand information from the executive, businesses and the military. Critics say it would pose a national security threat, given the Kuomintang's close relationship with Beijing.

The controversy comes as the Chinese military on Thursday launched large-scale drills around Taiwan, three days after Lai took office, as "punishment" for the democratic island's "separatist acts."

"The drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Strait, the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin," China's defense ministry said on its website.

The Joint Sword-2024A drills combine multiple branches of the armed forces under the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army, or PLA, and will last until Friday.

A spokesperson for the command said the exercises serve as a strong punishment for the separatist acts of what he called "Taiwan independence forces" and as a stern warning against interference and provocation by external forces -- a veiled reference to the United States and its allies.

Sweeping powers to demand info

Meanwhile, back in Taiwan, campaigners said the Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party's bills would grant sweeping powers to lawmakers to demand information from anyone in Taiwan, including members of the public, to the extent of violating people's human rights and endangering national security.

"Article 25 of the bill touches on national security and secrets," Raymond Sung, Deputy Executive Director of Taiwan's New Constitution Foundation, told RFA Mandarin in an interview on Thursday.

"If officials are forced to go to the Legislative Yuan to answer questions about classified information ... how can there be adequate protection for state secrets?" Sung questioned.

He said the bill, if it becomes law, would place additional pressure on Lai's administration and gives sweeping powers to lawmakers to demand information.

"The extension of such powers to private business personnel could infringe on people's privacy or on corporate trade secrets," he said.

Sung said the new powers could also set the stage for further disruptive action by KMT and TPP lawmakers, for example, a refusal to pass government funding for social welfare or even the defense budget.

DPP lawmaker Su Chiao-hui was also concerned about the effect of Articles 47 and 48 on human rights.

"They would mean that the KMT and TPP would be able to require businesses to hand over trade secrets and people to hand over their private information without a search warrant," Su Chiao-hui wrote in a May 21 post on her Facebook account.

Lawmakers would also be able to demand confidential information from the military, and from judicial and intelligence agencies, Su wrote.

"Any information the KMT and TPP want, they can just reach out and take it, and send it straight to the desk of [Chinese Communist Party leader] Xi Jinping," she said.

Frozen out of agenda-setting

Campaigners have also complained that DPP lawmakers weren't allowed to see much of the detail of the bills before they were put to a vote, saying the legislation is being shoved through without respect for due democratic process, and that DPP lawmakers have been frozen out of agenda-setting since the KMT and TPP majority took effect in February.

The Kuomintang held a news conference on Thursday to defend the proposed legislation ahead of another parliamentary vote on Friday, during which protesters say they will be out in force again.

Kuomintang lawmaker Wu Tsung-Hsien told journalists that the DPP has allowed the executive arm of government to dominate in recent years, allowing corruption to flourish.

"The [DPP] doesn't want anyone to be able to supervise its executive power, so it doesn't want this bill to pass," Wu said, dismissing claims of a lack of transparency around the bill.

"Lawmakers were allowed to speak during the reading process, but they were unwilling to discuss the content of the bill, preferring to carry on cursing it," Wu said.

The KMT has argued that the legislative reform bills are necessary to enhance the Legislature's oversight role, bring about greater government transparency and accountability, and force the ruling party and its government officials to face and respond to public opinion. The KMT says the DPP hasn't been accountable over the past eight years due to its legislative majority, Central News Agency reported.

Timing of bill suspect

Ker Chien-ming, who heads the DDP caucus in the Legislative Yuan, said he believed the timing of the bill -- to coincide with current Chinese military activity around Taiwan -- was suspect.

"Why are they in such a hurry?" Ker wanted to know. "Are they doing this in cooperation with China?"

"Do you want the lawmakers you elected to betray your country?"

Ker suggested that the KMT and TPP were acting in a pincer movement along with the People's Liberation Army's Joint Sword military drills around Taiwan.

"The Kuomintang and the Taiwan People's Power have occupied the Legislative Yuan, and China has sent its military to surround Taiwan -- how will this be seen by the international community?" Ker wanted to know.

As protesters gathered outside the Legislative Yuan on Tuesday, lawmakers inside were discussing amendments that would allow government personnel who refuse to answer lawmakers' questions to be held criminally liable or face impeachment, Central News Agency reported.

They were also debating amendments removing secret ballots on government appointments, as well as broad-reaching access to official documents, the report said.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie.

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 May 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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China conducts military drills around Taiwan

Joint Sword covers a larger area than the drills held after Nancy Pelosi's Taipei visit

By RFA Staff 2024.05.23 -- The Chinese military on Thursday launched large-scale drills around Taiwan, three days after new President Lai Ching-te took office, as "punishment" for the democratic island's "separatist acts."

"The drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Strait, the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, as well as areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin," China's defense ministry said on its website.

The Joint Sword-2024A drills combine multiple branches of the armed forces under the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and will last until Friday.

A spokesperson for the command said the exercises serve as a strong punishment for the separatist acts of what he called "Taiwan independence forces" and as a stern warning against interference and provocation by external forces, a veiled reference to the United States and its allies.

The spokesperson, Li Xi, said the army, navy, air force and rocket force of the theater command had joined the exercise.

China, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province, often stages military exercises in response to major political events on the island. The scale of the exercises invariably depends on the significance of the event.

In August 2022, after then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taipei, the PLA conducted a week of joint drills around Taiwan, including live-fire exercises, followed by anti-submarine attacks and air drills. Pelosi was the most senior U.S. official to visit Taiwan in 25 years.

"The code name of this exercise is Joint Sword 2024, which means it is a continuation of the exercise in 2022 after Nancy Pelosi's visit," said Shen Ming-shih, a Taiwanese military expert from the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taipei.

"There will be more of such exercise this year as it becomes routine but they won't be large-scale aggressions," Shen added.

The PLA's Eastern Theater Command posted a map on the Weibo microblogging site showing locations of the drills, which appears similar to the August 2022 exercises but with the addition of areas near Taiwan's outer islands.

A witness in the Kinmen islands told Radio Free Asia that since Thursday morning, two formations of Chinese vessels had been spotted operating near the islands.

Outside the island chain

Spokesperson Li said Joint Sword-2024A was focused on joint sea-air combat-readiness patrols, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes.

Chinese military vessels and planes would be conducting patrols and integrated operations inside and outside the island chain "to test the joint real combat capabilities of the forces of the command," he said.

Military analyst, Ben Lewis, said that means the PLA will send aircraft further eastward.

"I think it is likely they will operate in West Pacific, based on the exercise zones and stated objectives of the drill," Lewis told RFA.

In a press statement, Taiwan's ministry of defense condemned the exercise and "expressed regret for such irrational provocations and actions that undermine regional peace and stability."

The ministry said it had mobilized joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, as well as air defense and land-based missile forces, to monitor the situation in order to respond to emergencies.

Such PLA drills are largely anticipated and "included" in Taiwan's defense planning, according to the ministry.

China's actions have "caused substantial damage to global peace and stability," it said, adding that they also highlight Beijing's "hegemonic nature."

Lai Ching-te, who China views as a "separatist," was sworn in as Taiwan's president on Monday.

Lai said in his acceptance speech that his government would strive to "maintain the status quo" with China but "we must not have illusions."

"Before China gives up using force to invade Taiwan, citizens must understand this: even if we accept all of China's claims and give up our sovereignty, China's ambition to annex Taiwan will not disappear."

China's Taiwan Affairs Office said that Lai sent "dangerous" signals that seek to undermine peace and stability.

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.

Updated to add an expert comment.

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 May 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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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan May 23, 2024

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2024/05/23

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

Date

6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Wednesday to Thursday, May 22-23

PLA activities

1 PLA aircraft, 3 PLAN vessels, and 4 CCG vessels operating around Taiwan were detected until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 1 of the aircraft entered Taiwan's southwestern and southeastern 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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China Starts Military Drills Around Taiwan as 'Warning' to Meddling 'External Forces'

Sputnik News

20240523

Svetlana Ekimenko

After a US-backed pro-independence candidate won the local election in Taiwan at the start of the year, China reiterated that it would continue to push back on the island's independence in 2024, while also promoting cooperation and peaceful reunification under the "one country, two systems" policy.

China has started large-scale military drills in areas around Taiwan. The exercises codenamed Joint Sword 2024A will be conducted from May 23 to 24, and involve military services including the army, navy, air force, and rocket force, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army announced.

Specifically, the drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Strait, north, south, and east of Taiwan, as well as areas around the Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, as per the command's statement.

The exercises serve as a "strong punishment" against the separatist acts of the "Taiwan independence" forces and a "stern warning" to interference and provocation by "external forces," Li Xi, spokesperson for the theater command, said in a statement. The maneuvers will focus on practicing joint maritime and aerial combat readiness in areas around the island of Taiwan to test joint real combat capabilities, Li said.

The show of strength comes just days after US-backed Taiwan's new regional leader, William Lai Ching-te, took his oath of office. Shortly after Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) pro-independence candidate won the election, he vowed to "protect Taiwan from China's continued threats and intimidation."

In response, China's Taiwan Affairs Office chief Chen Binhua declared that Beijing "will adhere to the 1992 consensus, which embodies the One China principle, and firmly oppose separatist actions aimed at achieving Taiwan's independence, as well as interference by external forces."

Taiwan has been governed independently of mainland China since 1949. Beijing views the island as its province, while Taiwan a a territory with its own elected government a maintains that it is an autonomous country, but stops short of declaring independence. China opposes any official contacts of foreign states with Taipei and considers Chinese sovereignty over the island indisputable.

Beijing will work with all political parties and groups of Taiwan's society to promote exchanges and cooperation with the island, as well as peaceful relations with Taipei and the "reunification of the motherland," Chen added.

The drills also come as the US has been further stoking tensions in the region with a swathe of joint drills. The expansive US-Philippines Balikatan war games in April were held near the South China Sea, where both Beijing and Manila have territorial claims.

Beijing slammed the drills as exacerbating regional tensions. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the Philippines "should understand that drawing in countries outside the South China Sea to flex their muscles and stoke confrontation in the region will only intensify tensions and undermine regional stability." Lin said that by seeking to bolster its security using external forces, the Philippines "will only put itself into greater insecurity, and even become the pawn of others."

A Sputnik

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China begins military drills around Taiwan as 'punishment' for new leader

By William Yang May 23, 2024

China kicked off a two-day large-scale military exercise in the water and airspace around Taiwan on Thursday, emphasizing that it is "a strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence forces'" and "a stern warning" against provocation by external forces.

The Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army will conduct drills in the Taiwan Strait, the north, south, and east of Taiwan as well as in areas near Taiwan's outlying Kinmen and Matsu islands, according to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency.

The drills, which involve the army, navy, air force, and rocket force of the Eastern theater command, will concentrate on joint sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes on key targets, Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Li Xi said.

Some analysts say the exercise is part of Beijing's display of anger toward Taiwan's new president Lai Ching-te, who took office Monday.

The military exercise is "meant to be a warning to both the Lai administration and Washington that it can and will continue to put the squeeze on Taiwan if Lai does not return to a more moderate tone and approach" to cross-strait relations, Amanda Hsiao, a senior China analyst at International Crisis Group, said.

However, despite the attempt to push the new Taiwanese government to soften its position, Hsiao said Beijing's forceful response may have the opposite effect.

"Given the Lai administration's deep distrust of Beijing and the domestic pressures they are currently facing, Taipei may hold even firmer to their cross-strait line," she told VOA in a written response.

In response to the Chinese military's announcement, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense said Beijing's "irrational provocation" will damage regional peace and stability and that it will take practical actions, including deploying Taiwan's naval, air, and ground forces, to protect freedom and safeguard Taiwan's sovereignty.

Some Taiwanese military analysts say the priority for Taiwan is to keep strengthening its defense capabilities and enhance Taiwan's defense budget.

"The Chinese military exercise is part of Beijing's long-term pressure campaign against Taiwan, so Taipei needs to ensure it has enough defense capabilities to withstand the growing pressure from Beijing and maintain peace in the region," Su Tzu-yun, a military expert at the Taipei-based Institute for National Defense and Security Research, told VOA by phone.

A firmer assertion of Taiwan's sovereignty

China's large-scale military exercise around Taiwan comes after Beijing criticized Lai for his "downright confession of Taiwan independence" through his inauguration speech Monday.

"The speech fully demonstrated that Lai is 'a traitor to mainstream public opinion on the island and a disruptor of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,'" said Chen Binhua, the spokesperson of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, which handles cross-strait relations.

He reiterated that "Taiwan independence is a dead end" and that attempts to pursue "Taiwan independence" through support from external forces will only backfire.

"However, in response to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' collusion with external forces to provoke and seek independence, we must counteract and punish them," Chen said during a regular press conference on Tuesday, according to Xinhua.

During his inauguration speech on Monday, Lai urged Beijing to cease political and military intimidation against Taiwan and proposed that both sides could start cross-strait exchange through the resumption of tourism on a reciprocal basis or enrollment of degree students in Taiwanese institutions.

However, he also warned the Taiwanese people of China's ambition to "annex Taiwan" and reiterated that "the Republic of China and the People's Republic of China are not subordinate to each other."

Hsiao, from the International Crisis Group, said what Lai said in the speech suggests a potential deviation from his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen's more moderate approach to cross-strait relations.

"He didn't reaffirm the conciliatory gesture that Tsai offered, that cross-strait relations would be conducted in accordance with the Republic of China's constitution," she told VOA.

During her inauguration address in 2020, Tsai said Taiwan would handle cross-strait affairs according to the Republic of China's constitution and the Act Governing Relations between People of Taiwan and "the mainland area," which she said had been the island's consistent position to maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. However, Lai didn't reaffirm the same position in his inauguration speech on Monday.

In her view, while Tsai maintained some ambiguities in her characterization of cross-strait relations, Lai "appears resistant to doing so." "He wants to state clearly and loudly that China and Taiwan are two separate states [and] his calculation may be that Tsai's moderate approach didn't pay off after all," Hsiao added.

Some experts say since Thursday's military exercise has been called the "Joint Sword 2024A," this suggests that China could conduct more military exercises of the similar scale in the near future. "Since Beijing is extremely disappointed and even furious now, more strong responses will follow," Zhiqun Zhu, a professor of political science at Bucknell University, told VOA in a written response.

During a speech on Thursday in the Australian capital Canberra, Deputy Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Lieutenant General Stephen Sklenka said China's military exercises around Taiwan are "concerning" but not unexpected. He added that the Chinese military practiced maneuvers in the Taiwan Strait in 2023 that would be key to a potential invasion of the island.

Taiwan military analyst Su said China's latest military exercise around Taiwan may create backlash for Beijing.

"Thursday's exercise will only prove that China's threat to Taiwan is real and it may convince like-minded democracies, especially the United States, to be more engaged in relevant efforts to deter Beijing from continuing such behaviors," he told VOA.

Going forward, Hsiao said the dynamic between Taiwan and China "looks bleak."

"[While] limiting the escalation of tensions is possible, it will require Beijing recognize that its pressures are unlikely to be effective and the Lai administration to see value in signaling a more moderate line," she told VOA.

Additionally, Hsiao said she thinks Washington's response may also affect cross-strait dynamics since there are no direct channels of communication between Beijing and Taipei.

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PLA's Joint Sword-2024A military drills around Taiwan Straits continue on Friday

Global Times

By Global Times Published: May 24, 2024 08:45 AM

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army continues to conduct the "Joint Sword-2024A" military exercise around the Taiwan Straits on Friday. This exercise involves integrated operations within and outside the island chain, testing the capabilities of joint seizure of power, joint strikes, and key area control: Li Xi, spokesperson for the theater command

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Russia jolts Ukraine's Kharkiv with strikes, claims fresh advances

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 23 May 2024 3:31 PM

Russia's latest strikes have rocked Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city, with Moscow claiming fresh advances on the frontline.

The barrage of more than a dozen projectiles killed at least seven people in the flashpoint region, authorities said on Thursday, almost a week after Russia launched a ground operation in the northeast border territory.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the strikes as "brutal", saying Russia was "taking advantage" of Ukraine's lack of air defense systems and launches fatal attacks on towns and cities at his country's border.

According to the regional governor, another 16 people were wounded in the strikes against Kharkiv, which is situated just dozens of kilometers from the border with Russia.

In a statement, Ukraine's national railway operator said that the strikes had damaged civilian railway infrastructure in Kharkiv and the surrounding region, adding that six employees had also been wounded.

Ukraine, due to decreasing manpower and ammunition shortages, is struggling to fend off advancing Russian ground troops.

The ground assault has already forced the evacuation of thousands of residents of the Kharkiv region, which has been under persistent shelling by Russia since it launched its "special military operation" in the ex-Soviet republic back in February 2022.

Moscow said Russian forces had managed to capture Andriivka in the industrial Donetsk region. Kiev had wrested control of the village and a few others in its lackluster counteroffensive last summer.

Ukraine has for months been repeatedly asking from the West for more military hardware, long-range missiles and advanced warplanes.

"No naming and shaming, but I once again urge countries that have Patriots to speed up decisions and provide these systems to Ukraine," said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on social media, calling on the West to send seven Patriot systems.

"They are needed now, not tomorrow," he said.

The United States and its Western allies have been providing huge military and financial support to Kiev since the onset of the war.

Moscow has repeatedly warned that any shipment containing weapons and ammunition for Ukraine would become a legitimate target for Russia.

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At Least 8 Killed In 'Extremely Brutal' Russian Strikes On Kharkiv, Donetsk

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service May 23, 2024

At least seven people were killed on May 23 in Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv in a wave of Russian strikes that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called "extremely brutal" as he again appealed to allies for more air-defense systems for his embattled country.

Ukraine's State Emergency Service announced the increase in the number of dead and injured on Facebook in a post that included photos of emergency response workers extinguishing a fire and assisting victims.

Oleh Synyehubov, the governor of Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region, said earlier on Telegram that Russia launched at least 15 missiles at the city, killing six civilians and wounding another 16, while two more people were still missing after the attack. He said later that seven were killed, including five women.

"All of them are civilians. All of them are employees of a well-known enterprise that printed magazines, newspapers, and other printing," he said, adding that about 50 people were working at the time of the strike.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said separately that one missile struck a printing press, triggering a large-scale fire.

Russian forces launched a surprise offensive on the Kharkiv region on May 10, shelling border settlements and attempting to capture Vovchansk, a small town just 5 kilometers from the Russian border.

More than 9,000 people have been evacuated from the area, although outgunned and outmanned Ukrainian forces have managed to keep the Russians at bay so far.

Kharkiv, a city of more than 1.4 million before the war, located at some 35 kilometers from the border, has been increasingly subjected to missile and drone attacks as Ukraine's lack of enough modern air-defense systems and ammunition became more evident by the day.

"An extremely brutal Russian attack on Kharkiv and [the nearby town of] Lyubotyn. According to preliminary data, Russia launched 15 missiles at once," Zelenskiy wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"Russian terrorists are taking advantage of Ukraine's lack of sufficient air-defense protection and reliable capability to destroy terrorist launchers at their exact locations, which are close to our borders," Zelenskiy said.

"I am grateful to everyone who is helping us. But we need more determination, especially from world leaders," he said.

Separately, Donetsk regional Governor Vadym Filashkin said on May 23 that one person was killed and 26 others were wounded in Russian shelling of the town of Toretsk.

On the Russian side, two deaths were reported in occupied Crimea after explosions were heard on the peninsula.

Sergei Aksyonov, the Moscow-installed governor of Crimea, said on Telegram that a Ukrainian missile attack killed two bystanders near Simferopol, the peninsula's main administrative center. Aksyonov also said a Ukrainian missile struck an empty building near Alushta on the peninsula's Black Sea coast.

There was no comment on the attack from Ukraine.

The Russian Defense Ministry, meanwhile, said its air-defense systems repelled a large Ukrainian rocket and drone attack targeting Belgorod region on May 23.

"The air-defense systems on duty destroyed three Vilkha MLRS rockets, 32 Vampire MLRS rockets, and three UAVs over the territory of the Belgorod region," the ministry said in a message on Telegram.

Belgorod Governor Cyacheslav Gladkov said in a separate message that there were no casualties from the attack, but two children's camps were damaged by falling debris.

The claims could not be independently verified immediately. Ukraine has not commented.

In a separate development, the Conflict Intelligence Team investigation group said it had confirmation that the small Russian small missile corvette Tsiklon (Cyclone) was sunk following a Ukrainian attack on Sevastopol on the night of May 19. The Black Sea Fleet received this ship in the summer of last year.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/belgorod-rocket-drone-attack- gladkov/32960202.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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Russian Forces Liberate Andreyevka in Donetsk People's Republic

Sputnik News

20240523

Units of the Yug Battlegroup have liberated Andreyevka in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), the Russian Ministry of Defense reported.

"The units of the Yug Group of forces, as a result of active actions, liberated the settlement of Andreyevka in the Donetsk People's Republic, as well as improved the situation on the front line and inflicted damage on the personnel and equipment of the 57th Mechanized Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the 105th and 118th Territorial Defense Brigades in the areas of the settlements of Konstantinovka, Razdolovka, and Chasov Yar in the Donetsk People's Republic," the ministry said.

"The enemy lost over 490 servicemen, two combat armored vehicles, four cars, one 155mm self-propelled artillery unit M109 Paladin of US production, one 152mm howitzer Giatsint-B, four 152mm D-20 howitzers, as well as one 105mm L-119 gun of British production over the past day," the ministry added.

Furthermore, the Tsentr group of forces improved tactical position and inflicted damage on the formations of the 68th Jaeger and 24th Mechanized Brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Semenovka and Novgorodskoye in DPR. The units of the battlegroup dealt blows to two Ukrainian brigades and repelled five counterattacks, with enemy losses totaling up to 405 soldiers, the Russian Defense Ministry reported.

"The enemy's losses amounted to up to 405 servicemen, four combat armored vehicles, including three MaxxPro armored personnel carriers of US production, and six vehicles," the report said.

In addition, during counter-battery combat, Russian forces hit the 155mm howitzer M777 of US production, the 155mm self-propelled artillery unit M109 Paladin of US production, the 152mm self-propelled artillery unit Akatsiya, the D-20 howitzer, the Msta-B howitzer, two D-30 howitzers, and two 105mm light towed howitzers M102 of US production.

Russia's Battlegroup Sever has advanced into Ukraine's territory and repelled two counterattacks in the Kharkov region and the armed forces of Ukraine lost up to 365 soldiers, the ministry said.

Battlegroup Zapad has repelled four counterattacks by Ukrainian troops in the DPR and the Lugansk People's Republic, while Kiev has lost up to 320 soldiers, the statement added.

A Sputnik

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Russian Ambassador Warns US Against Reckless Calls for Ukrainian Aggression

Sputnik News

20240523

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - Calls by politicians of the United States to allow Ukraine to use US-supplied weapons against the territory of Russia are "reckless" and threaten to drag Washington into the conflict, Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov has said.

"Such provocative statements are extremely dangerous and reckless. The calls by the Russophobes mean only one thing - further dragging the US into the Ukraine conflict on the side of the agonizing [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky regime," Antonov said in a statement shared by the Russian Embassy on Wednesday.

Antonov said "the Kiev regime has long abandoned asking permission from its Western masters for war against civilian facilities on Russian territory."

"Barbaric raids with the use of lethal products of NATO's defense industry are carried out across our country on an almost regular basis," the ambassador added.

"After the slogans voiced by American politicians, including today, there is only one desire - to accelerate the defeat of criminals in Kiev. Our armed forces, who demonstrate heroic victories at the front, understand this very well," the Russian diplomat said.

Washington reacts with "hysteria" to the successes of the Russian military, while Kiev's main goal is to provoke a confrontation between Russia and NATO, Antonov said.

"Politicians and lawmakers continue to test our patience. Every day we hear new proposals to expand military aid to the Kiev junta," the statement read.

"It is clear that Kiev aims to provoke the US and other NATO countries into rash actions and achieve a head-on collision between Russia and the bloc's members. This is how the ideas of using American long-range systems against Russian civilians, primarily women, children and the elderly, should be viewed. The push by Western states to shoot down Russian armed forces' aircraft should be added here," the ambassador added.

A Sputnik

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Armed Forces of Ukraine to Rebuild 6,200 Miles of Fortifications - Reports

Sputnik News

20240523

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Armed Forces of Ukraine plan to rebuild 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles) of fortifications along the front line, Ukrainian publication Liga reported.

Ukrainian military personnel complained about the inefficient use of resources and the need to urgently rebuild previously constructed low-quality fortifications. According to a serviceman, who asked not to give a direct quote, the Ukrainian authorities intend to rebuild fortifications along the entire front line.

Russia has been conducting a special military operation in Ukraine since February 24, 2022. President Putin has said the operation aims to "protect people subjected to genocide by the Kiev regime for eight years." According to the president, the ultimate goal of the operation is to liberate Donbas and create conditions that guarantee Russia's security.

Russia earlier sent a note to NATO because of arms supplies to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said any cargo that contains weapons for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russia.

A Sputnik

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UK condemns Russia's torture and mistreatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war: UK statement to the OSCE

Ambassador Holland condemns reports of Russia's "systematic and widespread use of torture" against Ukrainian prisoners of war and calls on Russia to uphold the laws of war it helped to create.

23 May 2024

Thank you, Madam Chair. Today I would like to begin by acknowledging the important role that Russia played in the process that led to the laws governing armed conflict today.

150 years ago this summer, 15 States adopted a draft text put forward by Russia, now known as the Brussels Declaration. While it never became a binding treaty, many of the provisions in the Hague Conventions can be traced back to it. It included 12 articles on the protection of prisoners of war (POWs). One reads: "Prisoners of war are lawful and disarmed enemies. They should be treated with humanity."

This worthy contribution is in stark contrast with Russia's treatment of Ukrainian POWs today.

In their most recent report, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine concluded that the treatment of Ukrainian detainees, including POWs, involved the "systematic and widespread use of torture". This fits with the finding from the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine which reported that torture and ill-treatment of Ukrainian POWs in Russian detention was widespread and routine.

The Human Rights Monitoring Mission found that the most common methods of torture included beatings, electric shocks, threats of execution, mock executions, and positional torture. Nearly two-thirds of those interviewed disclosed that they had been subjected to sexual violence during their detention.

The same report details poor detention facilities, in some cases amounting to torture; examples of Russian-appointed courts convicting POWs using confessions and testimonies obtained under torture or ill-treatment; and verified incidents in which Russian servicemen executed Ukrainian soldiers hors de combat.

These findings are damning and disturbing. We are seriously concerned for the welfare of many Ukrainian POWs. Maksym Butkevych, a well-known Ukrainian human rights defender and soldier, has been in Russian detention since his capture in March 2022. Like many, he has experienced torture and abuse at the hands of his Russian captors. Reports from other released POWs suggest his health condition continues to deteriorate.

International law contains provisions designed to avoid this situation and ensure respect both for the dignity of each prisoner and for their next of kin by providing them with information on the fate and whereabouts of their relative. Obligations include the gathering of personal information, relations with the prisoner's family and identification of the dead.

Madam Chair, we call upon Russia to respect its international legal obligations. Russia should uphold the laws of war that it helped create, including 150 years ago in Brussels. Prisoners of war must not be subjected to torture. Their conditions of internment must be adequate, including access to sufficient food, clean water and medical aid. Russia must share the whereabouts of all prisoners and allow them to contact their families. Russia must allow humanitarian access to all places of detention. And all Ukrainians illegally detained - including our colleagues from the Special Monitoring Mission - must immediately be released.

Thank you.

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Ukraine Doesn't Need Just Any Kind of Peace, We Need a Just Peace - Andriy Yermak at the UNITED24 Summit

President of Ukraine

23 May 2024 - 23:14

The Global Peace Summit should become a significant step towards ending the war and establishing a just peace for Ukraine. This was stated by Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak during a panel discussion at the UNITED24 Summit dedicated to the Global Peace Summit. Professor at Harvard University, historian Serhii Plokhy also took part in the discussion.

"It is very important to make this inaugural summit a success. We believe that it will be a significant step towards ending the war and restoring a just peace. Because we do not need just any kind of peace, we need a just peace," the Head of the Presidential Office noted.

That is why, according to him, the Peace Formula proposed by the President of Ukraine is based on international law. Andriy Yermak emphasized that Russia's war against Ukraine affects every person in the world.

"Because it's about our grain, about the environment, about the Zaporizhzhia NPP occupied by Russians. And, for example, the issue of POWs is not only a Ukrainian issue, and it cannot be resolved through traditional diplomacy," explained the Head of the Presidential Office.

Serhii Plokhy noted that this war cannot end with a compromise. A compromise would actually create the grounds for a new global conflict, and this is important for Ukraine's partners to understand. He also emphasized that the so-called German or Korean option is impossible for Ukraine.

There can be no "two Ukraines." There can only be one Ukraine, and this should be based only on international law. This is an argument that works in the Global South, in the Global North, anywhere," Serhii Plokhy summarized.

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Ukraine and Greece Will Sign a Security Agreement in the Near Future

President of Ukraine

23 May 2024 - 11:16

The Deputy Head of the Office of the President, Ihor Zhovkva, held a meeting with the Special Envoy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic for Ukraine, Spyridon Lambridis.

Ihor Zhovkva thanked Greece for its consistent support and significant comprehensive assistance to our country, including defense assistance, since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion. He also emphasized the importance of further strengthening this assistance based on the current needs of the Ukrainian warriors.

The Deputy Head of the Presidential Office acknowledged Greece's support for the Ukrainian Peace Formula and its active participation in the implementation of its specific points. The parties also discussed the preparations for the inaugural Peace Summit in Switzerland, in particular the joint efforts to involve the countries of the Global South in the work of the Summit.

During the meeting, the interlocutors agreed to conclude negotiations on a bilateral security agreement so that Ukraine and Greece could sign it in the near future.

Ihor Zhovkva also noted the importance of Greece's support in starting negotiations on our country's accession to the EU and its approach to NATO membership.

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Civilian lives must be protected even amidst war

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

HUMANITARIAN COORDINATOR FOR UKRAINE DENISE BROWN CONDEMNS ATTACKS IN KHARKIV CITY AND REGION, KILLING AND INJURING CIVILIANS

I am deeply disturbed by the news from Kharkiv City and the Kharkiv Region, where, yet again, attacks by the Russian Armed Forces killed civilians, caused injuries, and destroyed homes, businesses, transport and other civilian infrastructure.

My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones due to the strikes.

These appalling attacks in the Kharkiv Region have been going on for almost two weeks nonstop. Thousands of civilians, including older people and people with disabilities, have been forced to flee, leaving their entire lives behind. People who were seeking safety have faced, once again, the trauma of seeing homes destroyed and people injured or killed.

UN and humanitarian partners support evacuated people and those affected by strikes, providing urgent assistance.

Yet, the war across Ukraine continues to ruin lives and deepen humanitarian needs. International humanitarian law is clear a the safety of civilians and civilian infrastructure must be guaranteed.

Kyiv, 23 May 2024

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Russian missiles kill 7 in Ukraine's Kharkiv as Zelenskyy appeals for more weapons

By VOA News May 23, 2024

Ukrainian officials said Russian attacks killed at least seven people Thursday and injured at least 28 others in the northeastern city of Kharkiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack was "extremely cruel." He also expressed his exasperation at not getting enough air defense systems from Kyiv's Western allies to defend Ukraine against such attacks.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba echoed Zelenskyy, saying the assault highlights Ukraine's urgent need for additional U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems to protect Ukrainians from aerial bombardments.

"Unfortunately, mere words of solidarity do not intercept Russian missiles," he wrote on X.

Kharkiv Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov said on Telegram that Russia struck the area at least 15 times.

Kharkiv, a city of about 1 million people and the capital of the region of the same name, is located about 19 kilometers from the Russian border.

In recent weeks, Russia's ground offensive has led to its troops capturing villages in the area. Looming over Ukraine are concerns that Russian forces are working to get within artillery range of the city of Kharkiv.

"The main focus [of the fighting] is on the entire border area," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address Wednesday.

The Ukrainian president also criticized international partners for not permitting Ukraine to use Western-provided weapons to strike missile launchers located in Russia.

"This weakness is not our weakness, but that of the world's, which for the third year already has not dared to deal with the terrorists exactly as they deserve," he said.

In a Thursday interview with VOA's Ukrainian Service, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "We don't encourage strikes outside of Ukraine's borders."

"We don't enable such strikes beyond Ukraine's borders. We understand that when it comes to using non-U.S. provided weapons, ultimately Ukraine will make its own decisions," Miller added.

The United States is preparing a $275 million military aid package for Ukraine, multiple officials told Reuters. The package, which could be announced as early as Friday, is expected to include 155mm artillery shells, precision aerial munitions and ground vehicles.

Meanwhile, in western Russia's Belgorod region, officials reported damage Thursday from Ukrainian aerial attacks.

The Russia Defense Ministry said it destroyed 35 Ukrainian rockets and three aerial drones over Belgorod.

Belgorod Regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that Ukrainian attacks damaged a building and sparked a fire in Belgorod city.

Gladkov also reported damage to multiple houses in two villages in the region.

Belgorod is located along the Russia-Ukraine border and is a frequent target of Ukrainian attacks.

Later Thursday, the head of the Russia-annexed Crimean Peninsula said that two bystanders were killed by a Ukrainian missile attack near the area's main administrative center Simferopol.

Zelenskyy is set to attend the meeting of the Group of 7 leaders in June to make a new appeal for more aid, according to Thursday media reports.

G7 finance ministers, whose meeting in Italy will begin on Friday, are not expected to agree on details of a loan for Ukraine, officials said.

Washington has been advocating for its partners to agree to a loan that would be backed by future income from about $300 billion of Russian assets held in the West that were frozen not long after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the loan could add up to about $50 billion, but other G7 officials have been less open to the idea because of legal concerns.

Oleksii Kovalenko of VOA's Ukrainian Service contributed to this report. Some information for this story came from Reuters and The Associated Press.

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Urbo bankas UAB (hereinafter - the Bank), company code 112027077, address: Konstitucijos pr.18B, Vilnius.



Urbo Bankas, a Lithuanian capital bank, generated a net profit of EUR 2.2 million in the first quarter of this year. Compared to January-March last year, the banks profit is 21% lower this year. This change was driven not only by changes in the business environment, but also by investments in changing the banks identity.

In February this year, the bank changed the name Medicinos Bankas, which had been used since the banks foundation, and became Urbo Bankas. Marius Arlauskas, Head of Administration, notes that the final financial results of the first quarter were determined by several factors.

Geopolitical and global developments are also significant for Lithuania, as we are an integral part of the global economy. Strengthening the Banks identity and decisions on network efficiency and modernization have been costly. We are confident that the changes and investments made will significantly strengthen the Banks position in the market in the long term and will contribute to the sustainable growth of the Banks results, says M. Arlauskas.

This year Urbo continued to successfully grow the banks loan and deposit portfolios. The banks loan portfolio grew by 22.28% to EUR 329 million in the last 12 months, while deposit volumes increased by 40.58% to EUR 488.7 million.

Net interest income of Urbo increased by 17.6% to EUR 5.4 million in the comparative period.

The Banks assets at the end of March 2024 amounted to EUR 577 million and were 36.1% higher than a year earlier (EUR 424 million).

As a result of the reduction of non-core activities and optimisation of the banks network, Urbos net service fee and commission income in the first quarter was EUR 1 million or 26.7% lower than in the same period last year, while due to the shrinking of the net currency market in Lithuania, the net profit from foreign currency operations decreased by 40.3% to EUR 0.5 million.

Shareholders equity of Urbo Bankas has increased by 14.9% over the last 12 months and amounted to EUR 58.4 million on 31 March this year (at the same time last year: EUR 50.9 million).

With 284 employees at the end of March, Urbo Bankas customer service network consisted of 26 territorial branches.

For more information please contact: Julius Ivaska, Head of Business Division, tel. +370 601 04 453, e-mail media@urbo.lt



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Dublin, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Southeast Asia Data Center Market Landscape 2024-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Southeast Asia data center market is expected to grow from $10.24 Billion in 2023 to reach $17.73 Billion in 2029, at a CAGR of 9.59%.

AirTrunk, Digital Edge, ST Telemedia Global Data Centers, Chindata Group, DCI Indonesia, Digital Realty, Equinix, GDS Services, Keppel Data Centres, NTT DATA, Viettel IDC, and others are among the current major investors in the Southeast Asia data center market.

ABB, Airedale, Schneider Electric, Cummins, Legrand, Siemens, Eaton, Rittal, Vertiv are among the major support infrastructure vendors in the Southeast Asia data center market. These companies have a strong global presence and have been operating across Southeast Asia for many years. They operate directly in some prominent countries with numerous existing and ongoing ventures. In other countries, they operate through channel partners and distributors, competing with local vendors.

Prominent investors such as CtrlS Data Centres, EdgeConneX, Yondr, YTL Data Center, i-Berhad, Gaw Capital, Evolution Data Centres are entering the Southeast Asia data center market, bringing with them a significant presence in other countries. These companies can potentially disrupt the existing market by competing with current players and their customer base.

KEY TRENDS

Digitalization Gaining Momentum

Prominent Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines are prioritizing digitalization initiatives. Local governments in many of these countries are offering incentives to encourage ongoing digitalization efforts, leading to an increased demand for cloud services. These factors, among others, have become key drivers for the growth and development of the Southeast Asia data center market.

The adoption and expansion of 5G services and connectivity is rapidly spreading in the countries. Almost every Southeast Asian country now has 5G connectivity, and many of them have set targets to establish nationwide coverage shortly.

The countries in this region share a common goal of advancing activities that lead to long-term digital progress, supported by their respective governments. For example, Malaysia's Digital initiative plays a crucial role in driving the growth of the country's ecosystem across various essential and non-essential sectors. This initiative creates opportunities in the digital economy by leveraging programs such as the Malaysia Digital Catalytic Programs (PEMANGKIN) and others, positioning the country at the forefront of global digital progress.

Increasing Adoption of Cloud-based Services

Global cloud services providers like Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft, Tencent Cloud, and others have made many investments and set up their dedicated cloud regions in the past in countries like Singapore and Indonesia. They are now actively expanding their presence with planned upcoming cloud regions in Malaysia and Thailand, among other Southeast Asian countries. The companies are also expanding their self-built data center facilities in countries like Singapore.

The rising popularity of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning workloads has the potential for significant growth. This is mainly due to the contributions of global cloud service providers like Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft, and others. Data center operators are redesigning their facilities to be compatible with AI workloads with the help of liquid-based cooling technologies.

Cloud services are continuing to grow and expand in Southeast Asia. Local enterprises increasingly embrace digitalization to gain a competitive edge, acting as a positive catalyst. The demand for cloud services in this region notably rose during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to surge. This is primarily due to the crucial need for business continuity and the drive to remain relevant and irreplaceable within their specific industries.

SEGMENTATION INSIGHTS

The launch of numerous innovative power and cooling systems has emphasized sustainability. Infrastructure providers are increasingly focusing on developing products that minimize environmental impact. In recent years, data center operators have been implementing new and energy-efficient cooling systems intending to reduce power consumption by up to 50%. This trend is expected to continue in the forecast period as market vendors continually invest in developing more efficient products.

Countries in this region, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, have tropical climatic conditions. As a result, the preferred method for cooling data centers in these countries is mostly water-based, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation. This choice is influenced by the fact that almost all these countries are surrounded by oceans. However, alternative cooling methods like liquid cooling are also viable options to increase energy efficiency and decrease consumption.

The Southeast Asia data center market has seen a rise in establishing data centers, particularly those with Uptime Tier III and IV certifications in either the design or construction phases. Many public and private entities, including those in banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI), education, and government sectors, are obtaining the Uptime Institute's Tier III/IV certification either during the design phase or after the facility's completion.

GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS

The Southeast Asia data center market is heavily influenced by the development of colocation facilities, which attract significant investment. The market continues to expand as new players actively participate in establishing colocation data centers. At the same time, hyperscale data center operators are expanding their presence in the market by making substantial investments in cloud regions. In 2023, countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines also saw significant investments in enterprise data centers.

Despite the moratorium being lifted, Singapore's status as the top location for regional data centers may experience a slowdown due to other detrimental factors. In 2023, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) selected four data center operators - Microsoft, AirTrunk, Equinix, and GDS Services - to build new data center facilities with a combined power capacity of about 80 MW.

Malaysia's recent investments, particularly in its capital cities of Kuala Lumpur and Johor, have significantly increased over the past two years. As a result, Malaysia's power capacity is expected to exceed 2 GW, with numerous new facilities set to operational in 2024 and 2025. Artificial intelligence has played a significant role in advancing and strengthening Malaysia in recent years.

Batam is becoming an important location for data centers in Indonesia, with promising opportunities due to the overflow of demand from Singapore. The construction of new data centers in Singapore slowed after a moratorium on construction was lifted in 2022. Batam's proximity to Singapore means that enterprises in Singapore are considering storing their data in Batam due to cross-border data transfer implications

Thailand and the Philippines have also witnessed several new investments during the past few years. A cumulative capacity addition of over 600 MW is in the pipeline, and it will most likely go online during the forecast period.

Vietnam's local data center operators, such as VNPT and Viettel IDC, are expected to attract new investments. Additionally, we anticipate that investments from global operators will continue to increase in Vietnam. Potential investments from Gaw Capital and NTT DATA are also seen as positive possibilities.



Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 110 Forecast Period 2023 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $10.24 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $17.73 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 9.5% Regions Covered Asia Pacific

Key IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Extreme Networks

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Huawei Technologies

Intel

IBM

Inspur

Lenovo

NEC

NetApp

Oracle

Quantum

Supermicro

Seagate Technology

Toshiba

Western Digital

Wiwynn

Prominent Support Infrastructure

ABB

Airedale

Alfa Laval

Canovate

Caterpillar

Cisco Systems

Cummins

Cyber Power

Dell Technologies

Delta Electronics

EAE Group

EATON

Envicool

Fuji Electric

Fujitsu

Green Revolution Cooling

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

HITEC Power Protection

Huawei Technologies

Kohler

Legrand

Lenovo

Mitsubishi Electric

Narada Power

Nortek Air Solutions

Piller Power Systems

Rittal

Rolls-Royce

Schneider Electric

Siemens

Socomec

STULZ

Trane

Vertiv

Prominent Construction Contractors

Arup

AtkinsRealis

Aurecon

AWP Architects

Corgan

CSF Group

DPR Construction

DSCO Group

First Balfour

Fortis Construction

Gammon Construction

ISG

Kienta Engineering Construction

Linesight

LSK Engineering

M+W Group (Exyte)

Nakano Corporation

NTT Facilities

Obayashi Corporation

PM Group

Powerware Systems

Red Engineering

Sato Kogyo

Studio One Design

Prominent Data Center Investors

AirTrunk

Amazon Web Services

Beeinfotech

Big Data Exchange

Chindata Group

Converge ICT Solutions

DCI Indonesia

Digital Edge

Digital Realty

ePLDT

Equinix

FPT Telecom

GDS Services

Google

Keppel Data Centres

MettaDC

Microsoft

Meta

NTT DATA

OneAsia Network

Open DC

Princeton Digital Group

Singtel

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres

Telkom Indonesia

VADS (Telekom Malaysia)

Vantage Data Centers

Viettel IDC

New Entrants

CtrlS Datacenters

Digital Halo

EdgeConneX

Evolution Data Centres

Flow Digital Infrastructure

FutureData

Gaw Capital

i-Berhad

Infinaxis Data Centre

Infracrowd Capital

K2 Data Centres

Minoro Energi Indonesia

Nautilus Data Technologies

Pure Data Centres Group

YCO Cloud

YTL Data Center

Yondr

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7p2ri3

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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Boston, Massachusetts (PANA)  A digital healthcare initiative that has enabled some 260,000 patients in Nigerian villages to access healthcare is among innovations celebrated by a top American university
Ottawa, ON, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On Wednesday, May 22, TECHNATION launched its inaugural AI4Canada Summit, an annual event that brings together industry and government for important discussions on the acceleration of responsible AI adoption in Canada.

TECHNATION is Canadas leading technology association, with a mandate to unite industry and government to enhance the significant impact that technology can have on Canadas economic prosperity and global competitiveness. The AI4Canada Summit is part of TECHNATIONs call to action to accelerate responsible AI adoption to drive productivity, enable the digitalization of sectors, and energize industry and government collaboration across Canada.

AIs potential is infinite, but Canada still lags in AI adoption. Accelerating responsible AI adoption across all sectors will require a bold commitment and call to action for government and industry collaboration, said Angela Mondou, President and CEO, TECHNATION. Together, we can define a strategic and targeted approach to boost Canadas productivity and global competitiveness.

The AI4Canada Summit convened Canadian and global leaders and government officials who delivered insight and recommendations on AI adoption best practices to leverage GenAIs transforming technology nationwide.

Artificial Intelligence is a hyper-evolving space; as such, an updated national coordinated plan for AI adoption is critical for Canada to maintain its AI leadership position in the highly competitive global economy.

Artificial intelligence is a significant driver of technology advancement and productivity. As AI continues to evolve, we must be responsible and in particular observe citizens legal rights, said Hon. Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board. Discussions like this summit held by TECHNATION are crucial as they bring industry and government together. Working hand in hand, we will uphold Canadas position as a leader in AI.

At the Summit, global and Canadian technology leaders, shared perspectives on the importance of AI adoption in a Canadian and global landscape.

Ashok Krish, Global Head, AI Cloud Advisory & Consulting Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) highlighted key findings from their recently published AI for Business Study, which explores the transformative power of AI for business.

The latest evolution of artificial intelligenceincluding generative AI capabilitieshas the potential to help companies reimagine entire value chains, experience pervasive performance improvements, and create new ways of working, said Ashok Krish, Global Head, AI Cloud Advisory & Consulting, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Canada is uniquely and positively positioned in this domain; our AI for Business Study found that Canadian respondents reported more optimism about AIs potential impact than any other country surveyed.

Chris Barry, President of Microsoft Canada explored the economic potential of Gen AI and value it can bring to Canadians and our economy through responsible adoption.

We have a real opportunity to address Canadas current productivity challenge and create significant value for our economy with Gen AI, but only if we adopt responsibly, said Chris Barry, President of Microsoft Canada. As business and government leaders, its incumbent upon us to help organizations of all sizes embrace AI and realize the economic advantages before us.

The AI4Canada Summit is part of TECHNATIONs long-term roadmap focused on responsible AI adoption. Along with the AI/GenAI Industry-Government Strategic Knowledge Exchange, the summit is a lead up to the 2025 global TECH7 Forum that will be held in Canada in conjunction with Canadas Presidency of the G7 in 2025. TECH7 global partners are comprised of national technology industry associations of G7 countries; TECHNATION is the official representative for Canada.

To learn more about TECHNATIONs AI4Canada initiative visit www.technationcanada.ca/ai4canada.

- 30 

About TECHNATION

TECHNATION is the industry-government nexus for technology prosperity in Canada. As a member-driven, not-for-profit, TECHNATION unites Canadas technology sector, governments, and communities to enable technology prosperity in Canada. TECHNATION champions technology prosperity by providing advocacy, professional development and networking opportunities across industry and governments at all levels; connecting Canadian scale-ups with global tech leaders; engaging the global supply chain; and filling the technology talent pipeline. TECHNATION was formerly the Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC).
INDIANAPOLIS, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today during the Indiana Global Economic Summit, Governor Eric J. Holcomb, chairman of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, joined Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) Chair and CEO David A. Ricks to announce Lillys plans to more than double its investment at the LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon. The new $5.3 billion expansion brings Lillys total LEAP investment to $9 billion and will enhance Lillys capacity to manufacture active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) for its latest type 2 diabetes and obesity medicines.

Lilly continues to play a transformational role in shaping Indianas opportunity economy, and I couldnt be more proud about their pole position leadership in developing the LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon, Indiana. Lilly has long been driving global innovation and economic growth that will be felt for decades here at home, said Gov. Holcomb. As an international company, headquartered in Indiana, Lilly had a world of options to consider before making this investment, and choosing Indiana once again reinforces the incredible environment weve cultivated and the talented workforce we have to carry Lillys success forward. I cant wait to see the incredible benefits this investment leads to for patients around the world, knowing they were made in Indiana.

In addition to the new, multi-billion-dollar investment, Lilly also committed to create another 200 new, full-time jobs for highly skilled workers, such as engineers, scientists, operating personnel and lab technicians, bringing the companys total planned new jobs at LEAP to 900.

Todays announcement tops the largest manufacturing investment in our companys history and, we believe, represents the single largest investment in synthetic medicine API manufacturing in U.S. history, said Ricks. This multi-site campus will make our latest medicines, support pipeline growth and leverage the latest technology and automation for maximum efficiency, safety and quality control. Importantly, we are investing in our home state of Indiana, creating high-wage, advanced manufacturing, engineering and science jobs for hundreds of current and future Hoosier families.

Since 2020, Lilly has committed more than $16 billion to develop new manufacturing sites in the U.S. and Europe. New locations outside of Indiana include Research Triangle Park and Concord, North Carolina; Limerick, Ireland; and Alzey, Germany. Separately, Lilly has invested an additional $1.2 billion to update existing manufacturing facilities in Indianapolis. In May 2022, Lilly first announced its plans to invest $2.1 billion and create up to 500 new jobs at LEAP. At the companys Lebanon groundbreaking in April 2023, Lilly announced an additional $1.6 billion investment and 200 new jobs at the site.

Since breaking ground at LEAP in April 2023, Lilly has transformed a significant portion of its 600 acres at the site into an active construction site and expects to begin making medicines there in late 2026.

The state has agreed to assist in developing a robust workforce ecosystem of qualified manufacturing talent by providing the land and helping to raise capital for a new workforce training center that will be part of the larger LEAP industrial development. The new training center will have added impact by aligning with Lillys previously announced financial support for scholarship and training programs with Purdue University and Ivy Tech Community College, as well as the BioCrossroads-led training center at 16 Tech  part of Indianas recent Tech Hub designation.

"We are excited about Eli Lilly and Company's plan to expand their investment in Lebanon, reinforcing their role as a key community partner in driving future innovation and economic prosperity, said Lebanon Mayor Matt Gentry. Their investment underscores our shared commitment to creating greater opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for our residents and community.

Based on the companys plans to create 200 additional new jobs at their project site in LEAP, the IEDC committed an additional investment in Lilly of up to $500,000 in the form of incentive-based training grants. The IEDC also committed an additional investment of up to $20 million in redevelopment tax credits and $15 million in road infrastructure improvements based on the companys announced plans to invest an additional $5.2 billion. Furthermore, with a total estimated capital investment of $9.7 billion and the hiring of 900 high-wage positions by Lilly at their LEAP site, the IEDC also revised its Innovation Development District award structure to accommodate a 30-year benefit period with an estimated value of $1.2 billion in tax rebates and the flexibility for the project to further grow. All incentives remain subject to final IEDC Board of Directors and state of Indiana required approvals and contracting.

About IEDC The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is charged with growing the State economy, driving economic development, and helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 14-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit iedc.in.gov.

- 30 -

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Tucson, AZ, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Arizona Digestive Health is honored to welcome Dr. Gary Monash, a physician experienced in treating all gastrointestinal diseases, with special interest in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Esophageal Motility Disorders (EMD).

Dr. Monash is a seasoned, board-certified gastroenterologist who received his graduate degree from University of Michigan and his medical degree from Michigan State University. He completed his residency and fellowship at University of Michigan Medical Center.

I have always enjoyed the physiology of the GI tract and contiguous organs, says Dr. Monash. I put my good listening skills to work for my patients so we can discuss differential diagnosis and all therapeutic options together.

Arizona Digestive Health is part of GI Alliance  the premier physician-owned and -led network of gastroenterology practices in the U.S. Dr. Monash will work to provide the best patient care for Tucson residents.

ADH-Tucson is at 7490 N. Oracle Road, Suite 210, Tucson, AZ , and is open Monday through Friday, 9am to 4:30pm (2:30pm on Fridays). Call 520-675-3076 or visit arizonadigestivehealth.com to schedule an appointment today.

For more information, or to interview Dr. Monash contact:

Joe E Carmean

(410) 845-0715

joe@punchingnungroup.com

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SAN DIEGO, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP has launched an investigation into whether the board members of HireRight Holdings (NYSE: HRT) breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to the investment funds affiliated with General Atlantic and Stone Point Capital.



You can click on the following link to join this investigation:

Click Here to Join the Investigation

On February 16, 2024, HireRight announced that it had entered a deal to merge with General Atlantic and Stone Point Capital. Under the terms of the deal, HireRight shareholders will receive $14.35 per share in an all-cash offer.

The investigation concerns whether the HireRight board failed to satisfy its duties to the Company shareholders, including whether the board adequately pursued alternatives to the acquisition and whether the board obtained the best price possible for HireRight shares of common stock. Nationally recognized, Johnson Fistel is investigating whether the proposed deal represents adequate consideration, especially given analysts' projections for future earnings growth and last year HireRight shares traded over $18, just two years ago.

If you are a shareholder of HireRight and believe the proposed buyout price is too low or you're interested in learning more about the investigation, please contact lead analyst Jim Baker ( jimb@johnsonfistel.com ) at 619-814-4471. If emailing, please include a phone number.

About Johnson Fistel, LLP:

Johnson Fistel, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York, Georgia, and Colorado. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonfistel.com .

Attorney advertising.

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.

Johnson Fistel, LLP has paid for the dissemination of this promotional communication, and Frank J. Johnson is the attorney responsible for its content.

Contact:

Johnson Fistel, LLP

501 W. Broadway, Suite 800, San Diego, CA 92101

James Baker, Investor Relations or Frank J. Johnson, Esq., (619) 814-4471

jimb@johnsonfistel.com or fjohnson@johnsonfistel.com
London, UK, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitcoin, Ethereum, and BlockDAG Network are all making significant moves in the market. This is whats happening;









Bitcoin surged over $70,000 per BTC on Wednesday, nearing its all-time high of $73,500 reached last March. Meanwhile Ethereum has seen a 20% rise to nearly $4,000 per Ether, as the crypto market anticipates a pivotal vote in Washington.

The rally follows the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requesting updates from entities applying to issue spot Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Analysts foresee approval triggering a $4.2 trillion price surge, especially after the SEC's communication with potential fund managers, suggesting accelerated approval may be imminent.

ETF analysts have increased approval odds, citing the political climate and potential impact on Ethereum's value. The decision is expected this week on VanEck's and Ark/21 Shares' ETF applications, with analysts anticipating a significant market response akin to Bitcoin's ETF approval in January.

The potential approval of spot Ethereum ETFs is predicted to propel the Ethereum price to $8,000 by 2024 and $14,000 by 2025, impacting Bitcoin positively as well. With spot Bitcoin ETFs reporting record inflows and continued growth since their launch, analysts anticipate further market highs, aligning with projections of a $150,000 Bitcoin price by 2024 and $200,000 by 2025, amounting to a combined near-$4.2 trillion valuation for Bitcoin and Ethereum.

In the meantime, BlockDAG Network is revolutionizing the cryptocurrency landscape, emerging as the fastest-growing community in the crypto world and hosting the largest Initial Coin Offering (ICO) of 2024. With over 120,000 holders already on board, up $31 million in record time and a goal of $600 million within reach, BlockDAG is not just a network but a whole movement.











BlockDAG Network stands out with its cutting-edge Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) architecture, which allows it to achieve unmatched transaction speeds of 10 blocks per second. This high throughput positions BlockDAG as an ideal solution for both everyday transactions and institution-level decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols. The platforms commitment to technological excellence ensures a seamless and efficient user experience.

BlockDAG introduces a unique mining system designed to provide passive income opportunities. The newly launched X1 mobile miner allows users to mine cryptocurrencies on their smartphones without significant data or battery usage. This innovation means anyone can earn money virtually anywhere and everywhere, making mining more accessible and convenient than ever before.

Joining the BlockDAG Network means becoming part of a vibrant, global community of enthusiasts dedicated to making this project the best in crypto-history. With tens of thousands of members, the community is the backbone of the projects extreme success, driving innovation and growth through continuous engagement and collaboration.

BlockDAG Network is on an ambitious journey to the moon, with every milestone bringing it closer to the ultimate goal of revolutionizing the digital space.

The BlockDAG presale is the fastest growing in crypto history, offering an unmatched opportunity to join a burgeoning journey. Expert analysts predict incredible potential for BlockDAG, with $BDAG tokens projected to reach $10 in 2025.









In the midst of Bitcoin and Ethereum's market surge, BlockDAG Network emerges as the fastest-growing community and the largest ICO of 2024.

Analysts project BlockDAG's $BDAG token to reach $10 by 2025 from its current $0.0085 price, marking an unprecedented rise. As the BlockDAG presale gains momentum and rises upwards from the $31 million already raised, it's clear: in this time BlockDAG Network will redefine the future of cryptocurrency.

Read About BlockDAG Presale:

Website: https://blockdag.network

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

Telegram:https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial

Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu



Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.








Miami, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Miami, Florida -

Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney, a distinguished name in the legal landscape, reaffirms its commitment to exceptional DUI defense services in Miami. With a stellar track record and a client-centric philosophy, the firm stands as a beacon of hope for those facing DUI charges.

As an award-winning criminal law firm, Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney promises a personal touch to every case, ensuring that a former state prosecutor leads the defense strategy. Spearheaded by seasoned attorney Julian Stroleny, the firm boasts extensive experience, having successfully handled thousands of cases across a spectrum of legal complexities.

Recognizing the urgency of legal matters, Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney offers free consultations 24/7, acknowledging the need for immediate assistance and guidance. This accessibility underscores the firm's commitment to being there for its clients when they need it most, ensuring that legal support is never out of reach.

At the heart of Stroleny Law's approach is a dedication to delivering a superior client experience. Beyond legal expertise, the firm prioritizes empathy, understanding, and clear communication, fostering trust and confidence every step of the way. Clients can expect personalized attention and strategic counsel tailored to their unique circumstances.

For individuals seeking a staunch ally in the face of DUI charges, Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney stands ready to deliver results-driven representation with integrity and compassion. In addition to its focus on DUI defense, Stroleny Law offers a comprehensive range of criminal defense services, addressing charges such as drug offenses, domestic violence, theft, and more. The firm's holistic approach ensures that clients receive robust defense strategies, no matter the nature of the charges they face. The team at Stroleny Law understands that each case is unique and requires a tailored strategy to navigate the complexities of the legal system effectively.

About Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney

Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney is a leading criminal defense firm based in Miami, Florida, renowned for its unwavering commitment to client advocacy and excellence in legal representation. Led by former state prosecutor Julian Stroleny, the firm specializes in DUI defense, leveraging extensive experience and a client-centric approach to secure favorable outcomes for its clients.

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For more information about Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney, contact the company here:



Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney

Julian Stroleny

(305)-506-1819

julian@strolenylaw.com

66 W Flagler St. Suite 1005 Miami, FL 33130
OTTAWA, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- United Food and Commercial Workers sees promise in the proposed reforms to Canadas temporary and migrant labour force, outlined in a new Senate report, including the creation of a new Migrant Work Commission and the phasing out of employer-specific work permits.



On May 21, 2024, the Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology released its report on Canadas temporary and migrant labour force, Act Now: Solutions for temporary and migrant labour in Canada. The report outlines how Canadas migrant labour infrastructure is failing workers and the employers who depend on them.

It is clear that the Temporary Foreign Worker Program is neither temporary nor a last and limited resort, the report states. The program is not working for migrant workers and could work better for employers.

For more than three decades, UFCW has served as a leading advocate for migrant food workers. As such, the union welcomes the Senates acknowledgement of the glaring systemic issues with this program and views the reports recommendations as having promise. UFCW has been lobbying the government for over twenty years on behalf of migrant workers: many of the recommendations in the Senate report have been made annually for decades in UFCWs Status of Migrant Workers reports.

The right to representation and collective bargaining

"These recommended reforms have the potential to improve the lives of migrant workers in Canada, and we are pleased that the Senate Committee has listened to what UFCW has been saying for decades," says Shawn Haggerty, UFCW Canada National President. "However, we are disappointed that there is not a recommendation for provincial guarantees to allow equal access to the labour rights. Any reform must include the fundamental labour right for migrant workers: the right to representation and bargaining collectively. Real representation is the best and most important tool for ensuring workers are defended against exploitation."

As the food workers union, UFCW Canada represents thousands of migrant workers in unionized workplaces across the country, such as meatpacking plants. As union members, these migrant workers do not have to worry about their labour and health and safety rights being disregarded. UFCW fiercely advocates for its migrant members, including working with them to navigate the immigration pathways and become permanent residents if desired.

Migrant workers with real representation do not become headline news. Migrant workers with real representation do not become the victims of human trafficking, UFCWs Derek Johnstone told the Senate Committee in 2022. Migrant workers with real representation do not go home with disfigured bodies and the emotional baggage of being tormented by a horrible employer.

A Migrant Worker Commission must include UFCW

UFCW Canada sees promise in the top recommendation of a tripartite Migrant Work Commission, in line with the International Labour Organizations (ILO) recommendations for social dialogue. At the same time, the union urges that it is vital that this commission be created to align with the ILOs recently released Decent Work Guidelines for Agri-Food Sector.

Decent work cannot be advanced without social dialogue. It is crucial that the tripartite commission is fully in keeping with the ILO guidelines, with the representatives being from labour, industry and government. Social dialogue is defined by the ILO as an ongoing exchange of information and consultation between or among representatives of governments, employers and workers, on issues of common interest. Representatives of the workers are defined as independent trade unions that are democratic organizations who are wholly accountable to their respective memberships.

If the Migrant Worker Commission is based on the proper ILO model, UFCW as the voice for agri-food workers should serve a central role in this tripartite approach.

Phasing out Employer-Specific Work Permits vital

A key report recommendation is the phasing out of employer-specific work permits; the report states that the employer-specific work permit inherently makes migrant workers more vulnerable to abuse at the hands of bad actors as well as imposing structural barriers to accessing rights and protections.

This is a welcome recommendation, as UFCW has long urged the government to remove employer-specific work permits. In addition, the union is pleased to see that the report adopts the UFCW recommendation of investing in regional sector councils; however, these councils must be structured under the framework of the ILO guidelines of social dialogue.

More pathways to permanent residence crucial

UFCW has long advocated for more pathways to permanent residence and welcomes the Senate committees acknowledgement that neither migrant work programs nor workers are truly temporary. The union sees promise in the recommendations to expand potential pathways to permanent residency for migrant workers.

However, the union is concerned about increased funding to the Migrant Workers Support Program without measures to ensure practices are in keeping with the ILOs Decent Work Guidelines for the Agri-Food Sector. While the current support program is supposed to help educate workers about their labour rights, the first and most fundamental labour right  freedom of association  is missing in said education. Migrant workers must know that they have a right to organize and form unions, and any support that does not explicitly educate them about this fact is inadequate. Any reference to labour rights must begin with freedom of association, as per the ILO.

Union representation ensures workplace safety

The report offers recommendations for strengthening enforcement of existing regulations, such as increasing unannounced inspections. While this is important, unionized workplaces are the best guarantee of workplace safety. The best way to prevent unsafe and exploitative work environments is to provide migrant workers access to the same collective bargaining rights as other Canadian workers.

In brief, while UFCW believes that many of the Senate recommendations are potentially promising changes, reform must be implemented in a way that incorporates the guidelines set forth by the International Labour Organization. The Canadian government must ensure that migrant workers have true labour rights: freedom of association is fundamental to every Canadian worker, and migrant workers must be included in this.

About

UFCW Canada (the United Food and Commercial Workers Union) represents more than 250,000 members across Canada working in every sector of the food industry from field to table. For over three decades, UFCW Canada has been the leading voice and advocate for domestic and migrant agricultural workers.

Contact:

Derek Johnstone

Special Assistant to the National President, UFCW Canada

416-649-3417

derek.johnstone@ufcw.ca
LILE-DES-SURS, Quebec, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers (QPAREB) is pleased to announce the election of Serge Brousseau and Marie-Claude Genie to the positions of President and Vice-President of the Board of Directors.







Serge Brousseau is the founding owner of the RE/MAX du Cartier agency, which today boasts six branches and over 350 brokers, Mr. Brousseau has extensive experience, having worked in the real estate industry since 1986.

Recognized for his enthusiasm and passion for the profession, he sat on the Board of Directors of the Greater Montreal Real Estate Board in the late 1980s, becoming President in 1997. He was also President of the Board of Directors of the Association des courtiers et agents immobiliers du Quebec and of the Organisme d'autoreglementation du courtage immobilier du Quebec (OACIQ) for over 12 years.

As President of the Board of Directors, I have identified three objectives for our organization: promoting competence, ethics, collaboration and know-how; working in concert with industry players and decision-makers; and finally, putting the QPAREB at the heart of the major issues affecting the brokerage industry and the real estate market, says M. Brousseau.

Marie-Claude Genie has been a real estate broker for over 14 years, in addition to acting as a trainer. She has a solid knowledge of our industry, having served for three years on the GMREB Board of Directors.

About the Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers

The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers (QPAREB) is a non-profit association that brings together close to 15,000 real estate brokers and agencies. It is responsible for promoting real estate brokerage in Quebec, while taking into account the issues facing the profession and the diverse professional and regional realities of its members.

Information :

Ariane Boule

Morin Relations Publiques

media@qpareb.ca

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/833e9e78-beba-4c4f-b450-38fdb42d445a

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/61ade6ec-1d6a-46e3-a218-db0a30abe324
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VANCOUVER, May 23, 2024 - Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. ("Wheaton" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the publication of its 2023 Sustainability Report (the "Report").

"Our 2023 Sustainability Report outlines Wheaton's commitment to embed ESG considerations in our decision-making processes and business operations, by upholding industry-leading best practices and focusing on investing in communities to drive positive outcomes," said Randy Smallwood, Wheaton's President and Chief Executive Officer. "The mining industry is critical to a low-carbon future and socio-economic development, and our precious metals streaming business model plays an integral role by providing capital to companies who demonstrate responsible mining practices. At Wheaton, we remain committed to enhancing the sustainability of our industry with a focus on creating lasting value for all stakeholders."

Report Highlights

The Report is a comprehensive review of Wheaton's performance in environmental, social and governance ("ESG") topics. The report includes progress updates on Wheaton's ESG strategy, targets and commitments as well as a description of oversight of ESG topics at Wheaton.

2023 performance highlights include:

Recognition:

'ESG Industry Top-Rated' in precious metals and 'ESG Global 50 Top Rated' out of over 15,000 multi-sector companies by Sustainalytics, 'AA' rated by MSCI and 'Prime' rated by ISS.

Recognized among Corporate Knights' 2024 100 most sustainable corporations in the world.

Recognized as Best Company for ESG & Sustainability (Metals & Mining) and runner-up for Best Company for Climate Reporting (Large Cap) by ESG Investing's Corporate ESG Awards.

Environment:

87% of 2022 Scope 3 financed emissions covered by emissions reductions targets aligned to 2C or less, an increase of 19% from the previous year.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:

44% of employees are women with increased representation at the management level achieved in 2023.

50% of board members represent a diverse background (including women and visible minorities combined).

Community Investment Program:

Over US$6.9 million contributed to over 100 charitable causes and initiatives globally in 2023.

Over US$45 million in contributions since inception of the program in 2009.

Investment Decisions and Due Diligence:

The evolution of the role of Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Investor Relations to that of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) with greater oversight over ESG due diligence.

100% of new streaming agreements in 2023 screened for ESG issues and risks.

80% of Wheaton's operating mining partners are committed to implementing the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management, representing 97% of attributable 2023 production.

Information and data in Wheaton's 2023 Sustainability Report were informed by the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board ("SASB"), Global Reporting Initiative ("GRI") and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures ("TCFD"). The Report also serves as Wheaton's Communication on Progress in implementing the 10 Principles of the United Nations Global Compact. A separate TCFD-aligned Climate Change Report will be released later this year and will include detailed climate-related disclosures.

To learn more about Wheaton's sustainability approach and commitments, please visit the website at: www.wheatonpm.com/Sustainability.

Wheaton Precious Metals is the world's premier precious metals streaming company with the highest-quality portfolio of long-life, low-cost assets. Its business model offers investors leverage to commodity prices and exploration upside but typically with a much lower risk profile than a traditional mining company. Wheaton delivers amongst the highest cash operating margins in the mining industry, allowing it to pay a competitive dividend and continue to grow through accretive acquisitions. As a result, Wheaton has consistently outperformed gold and silver, as well as other mining investments. Wheaton is committed to strong ESG practices and giving back to the communities where Wheaton and its mining partners operate. Wheaton creates sustainable value through streaming.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking-Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation concerning the business, operations and financial performance of Wheaton. Forward-looking statements, which are all statements other than statements of historical fact, include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to ESG commitments by Wheaton and at mineral stream interests currently owned by Wheaton (the "Mining Operations"). 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 Wheaton to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements including (without limitation) risks related to climate change, environmental, social and governance matters, the ability to achieve ESG commitments and goals at both Wheaton and the Mining Operations and other risks discussed in the section entitled "Description of the Business - Risk Factors" in Wheaton's Annual Information Form available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and Wheaton's Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed March 28, 2024 on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR and the risks identified under "Risks and Uncertainties" in Wheaton's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023, available on SEDAR+ and in Wheaton's Form 6-K filed March 19, 2024. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management currently believes to be reasonable, including (without limitation) that ESG commitments and goals at both Wheaton and the Mining Operations will be achieved, that there will be no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, that estimations of future production from the mining operations and mineral reserves and resources are accurate, that the mining operations from which Wheaton purchases precious metals will continue to operate, that each party will satisfy their obligations in accordance with the precious metals purchase agreements and royalty agreements, and that Wheaton's application of the CRA Settlement (including the Company's assessment that there will be no material change in the Company's facts or change in law or jurisprudence for years subsequent to 2010) and assessment of the impact of the implementation of a 15% global minimum tax, are accurate and that expectations regarding the resolution of legal and tax matters will be achieved (including CRA audits involving the Company).

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wheaton-precious-metals-publishes-2023-sustainability-report-302154786.html

SOURCE Wheaton Precious Metals Corp.
Toronto, May 23, 2024 - Denarius Metals Corp. (Cboe CA: DMET) (OTCQX: DNRSF) ("Denarius Metals" or "the Company") announced today the filing of a National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects compliant technical report in support of the Preliminary Feasibility Study for its 50%-owned Aguablanca Project in Extremadura, Spain. The technical report, entitled "Technical Report and Preliminary Feasibility Study for the Aguablanca Nickel-Copper Mineral Deposit, Extremadura Region, Spain " with an effective date of March 24, 2024, was prepared by Resource Development Associates and supports the disclosures made by the Company in its news release dated April 11, 2024. The technical report can be found on the Company's website at www.denariusmetals.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Denarius Metals

Denarius Metals is a Canadian junior company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and eventual operation of polymetallic mining projects in high-grade districts.

In Spain, the Company owns a 100% interest in the Lomero Project, a polymetallic deposit located on the Spanish side of the prolific copper rich Iberian Pyrite Belt, and a 50% interest in Rio Narcea Recursos, S.L., which has the rights to exploit the historic producing Aguablanca nickel-copper mine, including a 5,000 tpd processing plant, located in Monesterio, Extremadura, Spain, approximately 88 km NW from the Lomero Project. The Company is also carrying out an exploration campaign on the Toral Zn-Pb-Ag Project located in the Leon Province, Northern Spain pursuant to an option and joint-venture arrangement with Europa Metals Ltd. pursuant to which it can acquire up to an 80% ownership interest in Europa Metals Iberia S.L., a wholly-owned Spanish subsidiary of Europa which holds the Toral Project.

In Colombia, Denarius Metals is carrying out construction activities at its 100%-owned Zancudo Project, which includes the historic producing Independencia mine, to develop production and cash flow commencing in 2024 through local contract mining and commencing a drilling program on the Zancudo deposit which remains open in all directions.

Additional information on Denarius Metals can be found on its website at www.denariusmetals.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to anticipated business plans or strategies. 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", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative 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. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Denarius Metals to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form dated April 25, 2024 which is available for view on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and Denarius Metals disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

For Further Information, Contact:

Michael Davies

Chief Financial Officer

(416) 360-4653

investors@denariusmetals.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/210257
Vancouver, May 23, 2024 - Lake Winn Resources Corp. (TSXV: LWR, FSE: EE1A) (the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") of up to 70,000,000 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.05 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $3,500,000.

Each Unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Share") and one Share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will be exercisable to purchase an additional Share (a "Warrant Share") at an exercise price of $0.08 per Warrant Share for a period of 24 months after the date of issuance.

Closing of the Offering is subject to a number of conditions, including receipt of all necessary corporate and regulatory approvals. All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The Company may pay finder's fees on the Offering within the amount permitted under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). Assuming completion of the Offering in full, the Company intends to use the proceeds from Offering as follows: up to $2,500,000 on exploration expenditures for the Company's Little Nahanni Pegmatite project, (ii) up to $500,000 for outstanding accounts payable, (iii) subject to TSXV policies, up to $200,000 on digital advertising for the Company, and (iv) up to $300,000 for general working capital and administrative expenses.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Lake Winn

Lake Winn Resources Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on advancing the 100% owned Little Nahanni Pegmatite project located in the Northwest Territories near the Yukon Border. The project covers an extensive lithium, cesium, and tantalum pegmatite dyke swarm. The project has had historic drilling and channel sampling that confirm significant lithium, tantalum, cesium, and tin.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF Lake Winn Resources Corp.

Patrick Power

President, CEO & Director

Lake Winn Resources Corp.

Telephone: (604) 218-8772

info@lakewinn.ca

www.lakewinn.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking Statements: Certain statements in this news release are "forward-looking statements" which reflect the Company's current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that it believes might affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. In some cases, these forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "might", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "intend", "plan", "indicate", "seek", "believe", "estimates", "predicts" or "likely", or the negative of these terms, or other similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to the Company's expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, including without limitation, delays resulting from or inability to obtain applicable regulatory approval for the Offering and the Offering being fully subscribed, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include actual exploration results, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, 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. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date hereof and is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
May 24, 2024 - Vancouver, B.C.; Muzhu Mining Ltd. (CSE: MUZU) ("Muzhu" or the "Company") announces that further it its news release dated May 23, 2024 the Company announces a correction to the amount of proceeds raised. The aggregate amount raised was $135,375.

Each unit is comprised of one (1) common share and one (1) common share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to acquire one (1) additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.07 for a period of one (1) year from the date of issuance.

The securities issued pursuant to the offering shall be subject to a four month hold period expiring on September 22, 2024.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Muzhu Mining Ltd.

Dwayne Yaretz,

CEO

Phone: 778-709-3398

Email: info@muzhumining.ca

Website: muzhumining.ca

Muzhu Mining Ltd. is a Canadian publicly traded exploration company with a portfolio of highly prospective projects at various stages of development. Muzhu currently holds 100% interest in the Sleeping Giant South Project, located in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, approximately 75km South of Matagami, Quebec. As well, Muzhu has executed two option agreements to acquire up to 80% of the Silver, Zinc, Lead XWG and LMM Properties in the Henan Province located in China.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
Hulkenberg can barely imagine Monaco GP axe

Nico Hulkenberg says he doesn't want to "imagine" Formula 1 without Monaco.

Nico Hulkenberg, Monaco GP 2024

 Haas

The fabled race on the Principality's unique and ultra-narrow streets is still much-loved by fans and drivers.

But during the Liberty Media era, criticism of the event has grown - including the near-impossibility of overtaking.

What kind of show is it when the viewer can fall asleep during the race? said seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Monaco is one of the pearls of the calendar, along with Silverstone and Monza, but it is not always spectacular, the three-time Monaco GP winner added.

I would suggest looking at the (weekend) format.

Another criticism of the Monaco GP has been the special privileges historically bestowed upon the promoting Automobile Club de Monaco.

Bloomberg claimed this week that talks are currently underway seeking additional funds in the form of the annual race fee - currently the lowest in F1 at $20 million.

It has also been rumoured that Monaco may need to accept being held only once every two years to make room for lucrative new non-European race deals - or risk being scrapped altogether.

Monaco is there because of its heritage and its history. That's all, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner told the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung.

Even the jewel in the crown has to move with the times. If you stand still, you go backwards.

However, the idea that Monaco could be scrapped is almost unimaginable for Haas driver Hulkenberg.

It would be a great shame to lose such a traditional race with so much history, he told DPA news agency.

Never say never, and I can imagine anything, but I don't want to imagine it.

(GMM)
Sainz not confirming rumours of Mercedes rejection

Carlos Sainz is staying quiet amid new swirling rumours that Mercedes has definitely turned him down for 2025 - and that he may be in advanced talks with Williams.

Carlos Sainz, Emilio Romagna GP 2024

 Red Bull

I can't confirm it, said the departing Ferrari driver in Monaco when asked specifically about the reported rejection by Mercedes.

Sainz said a week ago in Imola that the driver 'silly season' - in which he is a major player this year - is actually at a standstill for the moment.

I think everyone depends on everyone, said the Spaniard, who it seems has a major and lucrative offer on the table from Audi-owned Sauber.

But I can say that once I make a decision, everything else will happen very quickly.

Also waiting for the situation to develop are a string of rival drivers - including the Alpine duo, the current Sauber duo, Kevin Magnussen, rookie Kimi Antonelli, Yuki Tsunoda and others.

As I've always said, if you do a good job on track there should be nothing stopping you in the future, said Alpine's Esteban Ocon, who like Antonelli is also managed by Mercedes' Toto Wolff. So we will see.

Valtteri Bottas, who like Sainz is linked with Williams, said when asked if his situation has developed since Imola: "Unfortunately, no.

I haven't signed anywhere at the moment, the Finn added. Hopefully it will be in the coming weeks. I'm confident - no panic.

Bottas, 34, was spotted exiting the Williams motorhome at Imola, joking that it was because he had run out of coffee.

I would say that we are not talking to just one team, he revealed. Which is good. I have a clear priority, and I'm not saying what it is, but I do have one.

Kevin Magnussen, meanwhile, admits that a slight slump in form and some controversy around his driving style has come at an awkward time in the market.

I'm not worried about the contract situation, said the Haas driver.

I want to race in Formula 1 next year, but the situation is that sometimes a few bad races can reduce your market value. It's often said that you're only as good as your last race, and that's true.

(GMM)
Lewis Hamilton

 Mercedes

Oracle Red Bull Racing

Max Verstappen (4th, 1:11.813): "In general, the issue is a bit more difficult to solve in set up and it won't be a quick fix but we are going to work on it overnight. It was pretty difficult but we knew coming into the race this weekend that this might be the case. There was a lot of bounce and temperature changes on track, which also made it tricky. Every time that we went over a bump, the car lost a lot of lap time and on this track one small jump could result in you ending up against the wall. We are looking into a solution ahead of the weekend to sort this out. In general, the issue is a bit more difficult to solve in set up and it won't be a quick fix but we are going to work on it overnight; we don't expect miracles but are still looking ahead to tomorrow. Ferrari are also looking quick but I am not thinking about that ahead of tomorrow. Overnight we are going to review the issues that we have and we will hopefully improve the drive of the car ahead of qualifying."

Sergio Perez (8th, 1:12.099): "We have a few items we need to be able to improve overnight. It is going to be tough this weekend, we are finding it hard to get away from our limitations at the moment. We will see what we are able to come up with tonight, we ran a slightly different set-up on each car and I don't know what the issues were for Max until we debrief. There are plenty of things to look at, the long run pace seems to be in a better place, but we will have to wait and see how we perform tomorrow. Ferrari look really strong and whenever they need the lap, it has seemed really quick and easy. It is a benefit to them and they aren't struggling with their tyres either. We have a few items we need to be able to improve overnight and then hopefully it can put us back in the fight and we can be closer to the top."

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team

Lewis Hamilton (2nd, 1:11.466): "It's been a good day, probably the best we've had so far this year, and the car is feeling very positive. This track is just amazing in an F1 car, and I've been enjoying my driving today - I was pleasantly surprised by the grip level and the way the car was responding, which made it a much more enjoyable ride than the last two years. In the second session, it felt a bit less comfortable, and we've got lots of work to do overnight to improve the long runs and the front graining. It was a feeling positive on the lower fuel, and we don't want to lose that, but our focus now is to improve on the long run."

George Russell (10th, 1:12.260): "That was one of our best Fridays of the year, and the car is feeling the best I've ever had in Monaco. My session was limited by the steering vibration - as soon as I touched the brakes, the steering system was shaking, and on a track like this where you need confidence to attack, that really set me back. Every team is developing so quickly, and you can see how much faster the lap times are this year than last. The car is feeling good, and Lewis's times showed the performance that's in there, but Charles (Leclerc) is very quick, and we know as well how quickly things can change. I hope we will be fighting for the top five tomorrow."

Andrew Shovlin: "Overall, we've had a pretty good day with both cars. FP1 was productive. We pulled forward the FP2 soft into that session as we expected rain although that never materialised and meant we were on used tyres for the low fuel soft in the afternoon. George was struggling with a vibration on braking - we need to get on top of that for tomorrow as it appeared to get worse during the course of the day and was very intrusive this afternoon. However, the underlying pace of the car seems good. Our long run needs some work as we've got to be a bit kinder on the front tyres on Sunday but we've got some options for that. We've also got to track the circuit as the grip comes up but it's encouraging that we seem to have a decent platform to work from."

Scuderia Ferrari

Charles Leclerc (1st, 1:11.278): "All in all, it seems that we have a good car for this track and I felt quite confident with it today. We have to keep that rhythm in place for FP3, because I may have taken a bit more risk today than others did, which paid off in terms of lap times, but the key here is to put it all together in qualifying when everyone starts really pushing the limits. We did a good job overall and have to keep focusing on ourselves. It was a great feeling to be back in the car on the streets of my home town and to feel all the support, we will give it everything to have a good one tomorrow."

Carlos Sainz (6th, 1:11.962): "It was a challenging Friday for me. I struggled to find consistency in the car and played around quite a bit with the set-up. For the last stint of the day, I was happier and the long run was positive. We will focus on carrying that feeling into tomorrow's practice as we prepare for qualifying."

McLaren Formula 1 Team

Lando Norris (5th, 1:11.953): "First of all, it's just great to be back, driving around this circuit. It's so incredible. It's tough as always, but I think it's been a reasonable first day. It's always hard to get in a good rhythm around here but I think we're in a good place. It's very close between several teams, with maybe one or two a little further up the road compared to us. We've got a bit of work to do, but I think it's kind-of as expected and we'll keep pushing hard."

Oscar Piastri (12th, 1:12.366): "That's Friday done in Monaco. I'd say it's been a pretty good day overall. The pace has looked good but it's very, very tight between a lot of teams today, so it's difficult to say where we could net out. We've got some things to look at and tweak overnight, but I feel like we're in a good place. It's going to be an exciting Saturday."

Andrea Stella, Team Principal: "It was a productive day of practice here in Monaco. We worked through our planned programme without any issue. The threatened rain didn't materialise, so we had plenty of time to evaluate tyres, understand setup and give the drivers as much track time as possible. The battle at the front seems very interesting: there are quite a few quick teams. We'll work hard this evening to maximise our potential, have a good qualifying session tomorrow and score points in a race that may still be affected by the weather."

Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team

Fernando Alonso (3rd, 1:11.753):

Lance Stroll (7th, 1:12.062):

Mike Krack, Chief Operating Officer:

BWT Alpine F1 Team

Esteban Ocon (14th, 1:12.554): "It's great to be back in Monaco and driving at this legendary circuit. It's been an interesting day. In Free Practice 1, the grip was quite tough and it was all about building the speed lap by lap and trying to get as close to the walls as possible in order to improve lap-time. I would say the second session was better for us as we made some good improvements and steps forward. We managed to learn a lot  we still have more to work on  but I would say we're in a good place at this stage. We will continue the hard work, put it into practice ahead of Qualifying, and aim to be in a good position tomorrow afternoon."

Pierre Gasly (17th, 1:12.750): "I had a tricky Free Practice 1 due to an issue on the car. We were able to fix it during the session but it still meant that we did not get much running in. Free Practice 2 was mainly about getting a good feel for the car at this circuit and trying to push the limits as much as possible. At times, I probably pushed too much, but I did feel quite comfortable in the car so that's positive. My run on Softs was a little messy. I did not quite put together all three sectors, so there are definitely things to learn and more to extract. We will continue to work hard in fine tuning everything ahead of the all-important Qualifying tomorrow afternoon."

Williams Racing

Alexander Albon (9th, 1:12.257): "It's been okay today; we have the same issue as last year with our car struggling to get the front tyres in a good window and when they're not in a good window, they open up and start graining. The concept of our car tends to lend itself to this kind of circuit with it being an area we've been focusing on. The weight isn't such a big factor around here, so it feels like we're on a more level playing field. Q2 is a good goal but hopefully, we can be in the higher end of this."

Logan Sargeant (18th, 1:12.790): "There were some good and bad moments today, however FP2 wasn't very smooth. We have some work to do tonight on the low and high fuel, and whilst it wasn't the best today, it's still a pleasure to drive the streets of Monaco. We need to fix the balance and get the tyres in a better window, understanding the variables more to bring it all together. There's lots to gain out there, so we'll do some work tonight and see what we can do tomorrow."

Sven Smeets, Sporting Director: "The first day in Monaco is always a bit tricky as the track is a real challenge for every driver from start to finish. Drivers need some laps to get in the rhythm and to start building up confidence. We had a reasonably good day today with both drivers being able to do their full run plans in both FP1 and FP2. Alex showed some promising pace on the Soft tyre but the long run in FP2 proved we still have some overnight work to do to improve the car for the race on Sunday. The key will be to find the right balance between Qualifying and Race-pace. As the chance for showers tomorrow is decreasing it seems we are heading to a dry Qualifying which will be well appreciated by the fans."

Visa Cash App RB Formula One

Yuki Tsunoda (11th, 1:12.349): "It was another positive first day for us. Straight from FP1, I felt positive. There are still some little things we can improve on to extract the performance but that's what practice is for. For example, I think we can improve in general in the braking phase because we had a couple slides there and obviously with this C5 tyre, it's very sensitive. Other than that, warmup is good and everything is positive, so it's just finetuning the little things that always count, especially here in Monaco. The general pace is there and I'm looking forward to improving another step tomorrow, maximising it for qualifying."

Daniel Ricciardo (16th, 1:12.577): "I feel good being back here in Monaco, it's just nice and enjoyable driving an F1 car around this track again. I'm happy with the work we did today, I think that we have some pace in hand, and probably the timesheets didn't show the full picture, so hopefully putting on some softs tomorrow we can be fighting inside the top 10. I feel like I got myself into a better rhythm towards the end of FP2 and was happy with the last lap I did on the mediums. Considering everything, I think we're in a good place and now it's a matter of putting the setup together. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow; I'm excited because the qualifying day in Monaco is probably one of the coolest days of the whole Formula 1 calendar."

Alan Permane, Racing Director: "We're happy with our day's work today. We ran a slightly altered programme because of the threat of rain in the afternoon, which obviously didn't materialise. It meant we took a soft tyre in the morning and that didn't leave us with a soft this afternoon, so we're a little further down the timesheet than we would've been had we run the softs. A few problems with ride of both cars in the morning session were hurting the drivers, especially in braking in Turn 1 where it's a little bumpy and in the chicane after the tunnel, but some good changes across both cars in between sessions saw an improvement. Both drivers report they were happier with the car in the afternoon and we look forward to FP3 and qualifying tomorrow."

Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber

Valtteri Bottas (19th, 1:13.057): "Today has been a productive day which allowed us to gather important data ahead of tomorrow's Qualifying, which will be decisive. I always enjoy racing on these streets: it's definitely good to be home. Our car felt good, and I overall felt quite confident in both sessions, which were dedicated to testing different setups. I reckon today's positions do not quite reflect our true performance, and we should be more competitive tomorrow. The pack is tight, and given how today felt, I'm positive we can have a proper chance at it for quali. There will be a lot to play for, and we must be at our very best in order to catch any opportunity that may arise."

Guanyu Zhou (20th, 1:13.773): "Today's sessions don't really reveal our true standing: with an eye to the weather forecast, we opted to use our softs in FP1 rather than FP2. We're getting things ready, and the car felt better in the afternoon compared to the morning session. I reckon we need to find a few more tenths to be safe, but we'll find out tomorrow. I had a snap in turn one in FP1 but managed to keep damage to the minimum  that's Monaco. For the rest of the weekend, it'll all come down to getting the car in the right window and the tyres to work. I am confident that, if I also find a bit more myself, we can be up there in the mix."

MoneyGram Haas F1 Team

Kevin Magnussen (13th, 1:12.473): "It's incredibly tight as always, I say that all the time now, and this race is all about qualifying so it's really important we get things right tomorrow. There's a good rear in the car, the big rear wing is important here, but everyone came to Monaco with an extra high downforce wing. You're just finding lap time all the time; the track is so bumpy and it's just that much more intimidating driving around here. It requires bravery to really pull everything out of it and I don't think anyone has done that yet. It's very easy to go over the limit, and it's very costly. I'd love a bit more pace of course, but we'll see what we can do."

Nico Hulkenberg (15th, 1:12.569): "It's quite something  for the first few laps you're just stunned at how impressive it is  how fast, how dynamic, and how challenging. That's Friday in the bag, I think it was an okay day, there were no problems on our side. Performance-wise, it didn't look too great where we slotted in but it's all fine margins, so we need to squeeze a little bit more out overnight for tomorrow. The picture we have today, we're a bit away from the top 10 at the moment, but it didn't feel too bad from a balance point of view. It's just lacking grip in some areas, so we'll see what we can do."

Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal: "I think it's been pretty similar to what we expected so far. I think overall in terms of the package we have for Monaco, it's doing what it's supposed to do but like I said earlier in the week, we just need to find a bit more from our car balance to be able to extract performance. We understand our long-run pace so I'm not too worried, but of course qualifying is everything here, so we need to find a slightly better balance."
Guam Department of Education officials told senators Friday that about 14 schools are not expected to meet the August cutoff to pass sanitary inspections and could force them to shut down.

Senators were simmering Friday over GDOEs slow progress getting schools cleaned up and ready to pass sanitary inspections a year after Typhoon Mawar threw the school system into chaos.

Fridays oversight hearing on GDOE came on the first anniversary of the Category 4 typhoons passage over Guam.

Damaged campuses, double sessions, and the threat of being shut down over noncompliance with sanitary regulations have characterized much of this school year.

But as of Friday, less than half of GDOEs 41 schools have passed sanitary inspections, fence repair and mold mitigation havent gone forward, and a number of schools are still waiting on air conditioner installs, according to information shared with the legislative Committee on Education.

GDOE Superintendent Erik Swanson admitted to senators that the school system is not where he wants it to be, but said there has been a large amount of progress, and he has what he needs to educate kids in the upcoming school year.

Swanson said he also may ask the Leon Guerrero Administration to give back the remainder of $20 million that was transferred out of GDOE last year for typhoon fixes and mold mitigation. The fund transfer was supposed to speed procurement, but so far has not, he said.

Education oversight chairman Sen. Chris Barnett says the Legislature and school administration will be seeing more of each other over the summer.

Some schools not expected to meet deadline

Even with time in the summer, about 14 schools are not expected to meet the August cutoff to pass inspection, Swanson told senators.

Missing the date could force schools to shut down.

Seven of those schools are scheduled for major refurbishment work and wont even be able to get inspected until construction is done, he said.

Campuses districtwide are supposed to get in line by the start of next school year with long deferred regulations from the Department of Public Health and Social Services. But as of this week, just 17 out of 41 schools in GDOEs inventory passed muster.

Thats despite Swansons stated goal of getting every school in line by April.

Now, the superintendent wants uninspected schools to be allowed to operate until they can get an inspection. There was a limit to how fast GDOE and inspection teams at Public Health could work on the matter, he said.

Education chairman Barnett said he was a lot worried about schools passing inspection, but does not support lowering standards for GDOE.

He was not receptive to pushing the deadline back, again, he said.

Mold hangups

GDOE officials pointed at the General Services Agency for the still delayed contract to mitigate mold at schools, and stand-up fencing.

On Wednesday, the Pacific Daily News reported that a year after Mawar, a mold contract for schools had not gone out. The General Services Agency stated more information was needed from GDOE.

But GDOE Capital Improvement Project Coordinator Nikolas Cruz said Friday that it was untrue. Multiple meetings were had with GSA, and specifications for both mold and fencing projects had been submitted, Cruz said.

Normally, the education department would not even have to deal with GSA, as GDOE has its own, in-house procurement team.

But the atypical setup is a holdover from the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar, when the governor transferred about $20 million out of the education department with the agreement that the executive branch would help speed up emergency fixes for the schools.

The Mawar emergency declaration expired, and the mold and fencing projects ended up in the normal government procurement process over at GSA.

About $14 million of the original fund remains from the pot, the PDN has reported.

Swanson said he is now on the verge of asking for the money back.

Sen. Joanne Brown did not accept the explanation, and said Swanson had failed on the issue.

I dont care at this point, what the issues are. If they cant do it, then pull it back and do it yourself, she said.

Education chairman Barnett likewise blasted Swanson on Friday for not pushing the mold and fencing projects.

With the ongoing dispute between the Office of the Governor and the Office of the Attorney General on procurement issues, much of the information being shared about procurement was inaccurate, Barnett said, and help for the schools, dies when it gets to Adelup.

Kids were now caught in a tug of war between the attorney general and the governor, Barnett said.

Swanson told the PDN that GDOE could have got the mold mitigation done by now, if it had put the contract out to bid itself.

We put bigger contracts through, he said.

But there were issues at GSA, and several changeovers in the chief procurement officer. Swanson said he wasnt definite on asking for the money back, and planned to meet with Department of Administration Director Ed Birn on Friday or the coming days over the issue.

I dont need to go pick a fight between political factions because we have to operate regardless of whether they agree or disagree, Swanson said.
The fate of Timothy Tedtaotao Serebour now rests in the jurys hands following closing arguments on Friday in Superior Court Judge Vernon P. Perezs courtroom.

Serebour faces multiple felony charges, including armed carjacking and carjacking as first-degree felonies.

Serebours charges are related to an incident on March 19, 2024, in the parking lot of the Oka Pay-Less Supermarket in Tamuning. The suspects told a family of three to exit the Toyota Tacoma truck and leave the keys inside.

Serebour, along with former co-defendant John Peter Babauta Jr., was arrested and charged on counts of carjacking, second-degree robbery, drug possession, and possession of a firearm without proper ID. Babauta faced charges of complicity in all but the gun charges. Babauta was seen on video, driving truck away from the scene. He and Serebour were apprehended hours later outside of a Tamuning apartment.

Babauta signed a plea agreement with the government a few days ago, and on Wednesday testified against Serebour.

During closing arguments Friday, government prosecutor Sean Brown told the jury that although Babauta was the one who drove the truck away from the supermarket, it was Serebour who allegedly got the victims to exit the truck by brandishing the gun.

Defense attorney Peter J. Santos from the Alternate Public Defender asked the jury to question the credibility of Babauta, whom he said would be getting a sweetheart deal from the government. Brown earlier shared that Babauta pleaded guilty to theft, among other charges, and would be sentenced anywhere from six to 60 months in jail come July.

Santos said that it was Babauta who recognized the truck that he thought was his, and it was Babauta who drove into the parking lot, got out and started circling the car saying, This is the one.

Santos also questioned why Babauta had never told police officers about a gun until he was called to the stand.

They are trying to minimize what Babauta did, theyre trying to make him look kind of safe, because they want Serebour, said Santos. And why do they want Serebour? Because Babauta threw him under the bus.
My wish for the next 25 years ... is for nature to grow so we can have more plants in the next 25 years. Thats why I wrote this and drew this.

The artwork imagining that wish  from Merizo Martyrs Memorial School student Isaiah Charles San Nicolas  is Guams winning entry for the 2024 Doodle for Google contest.

San Nicolas artwork was one of 55 state and territory winners  selected among tens of thousands of submissions.

To celebrate their achievements, Google sent each of the 55 students Google hardware and swag and held celebrations to showcase their artwork.

In January, Google asked students across the U.S. to submit their ideas for the 16th annual Doodle for Google contest.

For 2024, in celebration of Googles 25th anniversary, they asked students to answer the prompt, My wish for the next 25 years through their art.

We were amazed by the submissions we received, Doodle Product Marketing Manager Selly Sallah said in a press release. Across ages, students showcased their visions for the future in thoughtful and unique ways.

Sallah said young artists shared a range of things they wished for in the next 25 years, including safer communities, technological breakthroughs, a cleaner planet, and greater unity among people.

Given the challenging nature of the past few years, we were really inspired to see the many ways students have been facing the opportunities and challenges that the future brings, Sallah said.

All 55 winners, including Guams San Nicolas, will now move on to a national contest where five national finalists will be selected.

The winner will receive a $55,000 scholarship and a $50,000 technology package for their school or a nonprofit organization of their choice.

To cast a vote for a favorite Doodle or to view all of the state and territory winning submissions, visit doodle4google.com.
San Francisco police officers used nonlethal weapons to shoot a person in the citys Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle

San Francisco police said a person was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries Thursday afternoon after officers apparently shot him with a less than lethal weapon in the citys Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood.

Police said they were summoned to the area of Ingalls Street and Armstrong Avenue to respond to a person allegedly holding a rifle.

Officers found and made contact with the person, who was not immediately identified, near Jennings Street and Donner Avenue.

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Police gave few initial details about the encounter, other than to say that a police shooting occurred. The man was wounded due to a less lethal use of force that was used to take him into custody, police said in a statement, adding that the person did not sustain any gunshot wounds. Police declined to answer questions Friday about whether the person was armed when police confronted him.

Police also declined to answer questions about what type of nonlethal weapons were used to subdue them. It was not immediately clear whether the person had been medically cleared to be booked into jail Friday.

A public meeting where police will display body-worn camera footage of the incident is expected in the next 10 days as officials investigate the shooting. A police spokesperson said more details about the incident would be revealed at the meeting.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Ricardo Chavez, F-22 crew chief, 90th Fighter Generation Squadron, 3rd Air Expeditionary Wing, conducts an inspection for an F-22 Raptor at Andersen Air Force Base on April 9, 2024.
From a traditional Memorial Day ceremony at The Villages own Veterans Memorial Park to a musical salute to America and a free crab boil  theres many ways to commemorate Memorial Day in The Villages of Florida.

Saturday, May 25

Crawfish Boil and Backyard Movie: Dirty South Saloon, 1850 U.S. Highway 441 in Leesburg

Celebrate Memorial Day with a free crawfish boil and a backyard movie showing of American Pie. The boil starts at 6 p.m. and bring a towel or lawn chair to grab a spot in the grassy backyard for the 9 p.m. movie on a 20 foot projection screen. The event is free, but donations are welcome.

Sunday, May 26

Rockie Lynne - For the Love of Country: A Salute to What Makes America Great: The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main Street in The Villages.

Join Rockie Lynne and the band for a special Memorial Day event at 7 p.m. at the Sharon Theater. veterans, active duty military and Blue Star and Gold Star families will receive a special discount ticket price.

Monday, May 27

Traditional Memorial Day Ceremony: Veterans Memorial Park of The Villages

Veterans Memorial Park of The Villages, a park dedicated to all U.S. veterans on Nov. 11, 1998, will host a traditional Memorial Day ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. The park is located just off Main Street at Paige Place and Lake Miramar in The Villages.

All Day BBQ: Evans Prairie Country Club, 1825 Evans Prairie Trail in The Villages

Evans Prairie Country Club will host an All Day BBQ on Monday, May 27, featuring special platters of barbeque chicken and St. Lois style ribs for $19.99 per person.




Haiti - FLASH : Good news for the 44,000 Haitians who have temporary resident status in Canada





As the security situation in Haiti remains volatile, the Government of Canada continues to take action to help people who have been impacted by the violence and deteriorating security conditions.



Wednesday May 23, 2024, Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced temporary measures to support family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have left Haiti, as well as Haitian nationals already in Canada who are currently unable to return home.



Starting May 23, 2024, Haitians with valid temporary resident status in Canada can apply for a study permit, open work permit, or status extension at no cost. This includes foreign national family members, regardless of nationality, who arrived as temporary residents through assisted departures out of Haiti. In addition, three months of Interim Federal Health Program coverage will be available to those who are eligible.



These measures will help keep families together and give Haitian nationals in Canada a safe place to study, work and stay. More information about eligibility and how to apply is available on : https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/haiti-2024/canada-tr-measures.html



Let's remember that there are approximately 44,000 Haitians who have valid temporary resident status in Canada.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Hurricanes and gang violence increase the risk of famine for Haitian children





Nearly 5 million people in Haiti, half of whom are children, face acute hunger and struggle every day to feed themselves https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42171-haiti-flash-164-million-haitians-in-emergency-acute-food-insecurity.html as the start of an above-normal hurricane season approaches and the population is faced with continued daily violence, warns the international humanitarian organization, World Vision.



Latin America and the Caribbean are less than two weeks away from a hurricane season (June to November 2024) predicted to be unusually active https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42399-haiti-flash-noaa-predicts-a-hurricane-season-above-normal.html Climate disruption, exacerbated by La Nina and extremely hot Atlantic Ocean temperatures, could seriously affect Haiti, an already climate-vulnerable country.



The predicted impacts of the hurricane season, including landslides, flooding and increased erosion of intensely deforested lands, threaten 1.64 million Haitians who already face levels of acute food emergency insecurity according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42171-haiti-flash-164-million-haitians-in-emergency-acute-food-insecurity.html



"Thousands of residents of Port-au-Prince and Cite Soleil, already experiencing prolonged gang violence and extreme poverty, are forcibly displaced to rural areas such as La Gonave and Grand'Anse, where Access to food and water is extremely limited," explained Lesly Michaud, World Vision Country Program Director in Haiti.



An estimated 400,000 people in Haiti have been forcibly displaced due to the violence and have limited access to food, water and medicine.



The imminent arrival of hurricane season significantly increases the risk of starvation for children and their families already in emergency situations.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42399-haiti-flash-noaa-predicts-a-hurricane-season-above-normal.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42171-haiti-flash-164-million-haitians-in-emergency-acute-food-insecurity.html



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Demolition of the Martissant police station

After the demolition of the Croix-des-Bouquets police station https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42362-haiti-flash-400-mawozo-demolished-the-croix-des-bouquets-police-station-and-the-titanyen-women-s-prison.html armed individuals began on the night of May 21, 2024 the demolition with heavy machinery of the Martissant police station, abandoned for more than a year.



Faculty of Law looted and vandalized

The premises of the Faculty of Law and Economic Sciences of Port-au-Prince were vandalized and looted this week by armed bandits, denounces its dean, Eugene Pierre Louis.



American Embassy closed

The American Embassy announces its closure on May 27, 2024 due to the federal "Memorial Day" holiday. Regular activities of the Embassy will resume on Tuesday May 28.



4,000 more "residents" in Leogane

Leogane Town Hall announces various measures to assist more than 4,000 displaced people fleeing the terror of armed bandits in Gressier.



Michel Martelly denies the New York Times

The New York Times reports that allies of Michel Martelly within the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) would have sought to influence the choice of Prime Minister. He also reportedly asked his allies to put on the table an amnesty proposal for former senior state officials whose names are cited in acts of corruption. Allegations rejected by former President Martelly.



Coalition of nations to support the Mission in Haiti

President William Ruto says Kenya and the United States are building a coalition of nations to support the mission to defeat the feared Haitian gangs. "Criminals have no nationality. They have no religion. They have no language. They will be treated with firmness and determination within the framework of the provisions of the law."



HL/ HaitiLibre


















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.
Oakland police respond to a shooting after Skyline High Schools graduation ceremony Thursday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Oakland police and California Highway Patrol officers work the scene at Skyline High. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle Oakland police and California Highway Patrol officers respond to the shooting at Skyline High School. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle Police descended on Skyline High School in Oakland after the shooting. David Hernandez/SFC The shooting happened after the graduation ceremony Skyline High School, shown Friday morning. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle The shooting happened after the graduation ceremony Skyline High School, shown Friday morning. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle The shooting happened after the graduation ceremony Skyline High School, shown Friday morning. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle The shooting happened after the graduation ceremony Skyline High School, shown Friday morning. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle

A shooting after a graduation ceremony at Skyline High School in Oakland injured three people and sent graduates and their families running, police and witnesses said.

Multiple people were detained after Thursday nights attack, and police sealed off the area around the high school for hours before they deemed the scene safe. Police later arrested one person.

The shooting occurred at 7:45 p.m. just as people were leaving the event, according to police. Officers responded to the scene found two gunshot victims, a man and a woman. Both were transported to a hospital, where they were listed in stable condition, according to police.

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Oakland police Lt. Robert Trevino said officers flooded the campus and escorted people away.

We are pretty well trained at critical incidents, so we were able to safely get everyone out, Trevino said.

Oakland police Sgt. Robert Trevino discusses the shooting at Skyline High School. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Police investigators were working to determine what led to the shooting, which they called an isolated incident. A dispute between two groups in the parking lot just south of the ceremony had erupted in gunfire, leaving three people wounded, according to a statement from the police department. Paramedics transported two to a hospital Thursday evening and a third victim showed up at a hospital later.

All of the victims were in stable condition, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. One had suffered a graze wound to the head and another had a gunshot wound in the leg.

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On what was a joyous last day of school for us all, I regret to tell you that there was a shooting in the area of our athletic field at around 7:40 p.m., Skyline principal Rebecca Huang said in a statement. Unfortunately, several people were injured. The incident happened well after our graduation ceremony had concluded, and after many students, families, and staff had left the campus. Some people remained on the field wrapping up the celebration and some staff members were cleaning up, when the shooting began.

A witness who identified himself only as Larry told the Chronicle he was at a parking lot across from the school when he heard multiple gunshots, then saw throngs of people running.

A video posted to social media shows a woman at the scene talking about what she saw and heard: I was waiting for my daughter. She was here to see the graduation for her two best friends and we just heard two bangs. I saw people running. I told my husband, I dont think those were fireworks. As I saw people running and the vendors leaving, the first thing that came to my mind was I got to go get my little girl. A high school graduation to end like this is horrible.

Oakland offers converge at the entrance to Skyline High after the shooting. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Oakland police and CHP vehicles had blocked the road leading up to the high school, off Skyline Road. At the entrance was a sign that read, Congrats Graduating Titan C/O 2024!!!

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The shooting occurred as new Police Chief Floyd Mitchell attended his first Police Commission meeting. Mitchell left midway through the meeting to go to Skyline High.

This situation has shaken our school community, especially anyone who was on site as it happened, Huang said. There is no place for this kind of behavior at Skyline. We must resolve our differences in other ways, and not resort to violence to work out problems.

District Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell also expressed devastation in a statement that distanced the shooting from the beautiful graduation that preceded it. It wasnt until the festivities ended that a patter of gunshots split the air. Staff members who had stuck around to clean up rushed to take control of a challenging situation until police could arrive, she said.

We dont know what prompted this violent incident, but we know this: Our schools are among the safest places to be in the city, and there is never any place for violence within or around them, Johnson-Trammell said.

Virdell Larkins, the head football coach for Skyline, was attending a staff event Thursday evening at another school where he teaches, when suddenly his phone began blowing up.

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I wasnt thinking that people were shooting at a graduation, Larkins said the following day, recalling his initial shock. My mind was not going there.

An alum of Oakland Technical High School, Larkins said he was no stranger to school shootings. Still, he was stunned by the brazenness of Thursday's violence.

My heart hurts, he said, adding that commencement ceremonies are supposed to uplift.
The Social Medicine Advisory Board of Kela, Finland's social security institution, has raised concerns over the rapid increase in ADHD diagnoses and the subsequent strain on the healthcare system. In their recent meeting, held on May 6, 2024, the board reviewed various aspects of ADHD, including its diagnosis, prevalence, treatment, and related social security benefits.

Notably, North Karelia has seen the highest rates, with nearly one in five boys aged 712 having used ADHD medication. The board emphasized the need to investigate the reasons behind these regional differences, as ADHD treatment for children typically spans several years.

According to the board, the current ADHD treatment guidelines advocate for a holistic approach to diagnosis and care. However, they noted variations in treatment practices across the country. The increasing complexity of data protection regulations poses challenges to uniform diagnostic and treatment monitoring. The board stressed the importance of incorporating information about the implementation of psychosocial support alongside medication data.

While ADHD symptoms begin in childhood, there has been a notable rise in the demand for adult ADHD services. For adults, the diagnostic and treatment planning process must consider co-occurring disorders, potential substance abuse issues, and individual lifestyle and life circumstances.

The surge in ADHD diagnoses has significantly impacted the volume of Kela's social security benefit applications. There has been a marked increase in applications for medication reimbursements and disability allowances related to ADHD. Additionally, ADHD diagnoses are increasingly featured in rehabilitation support and disability pension applications. However, ADHD alone often does not qualify for these benefits; it is typically included as a supplementary diagnosis.

Kelas discretionary rehabilitation programs, such as LAKU family rehabilitation and the Oma Vayla program for young people, have seen high demand, with approximately 80 percent of participants having ADHD as their primary diagnosis. These programs are funded through a special appropriation granted by the Finnish Parliament, which ensures additional rehabilitation slots. Due to high demand, the criteria for discretionary rehabilitation have become more stringent.

The advisory board expressed concern about the increasing prevalence of functional issues among children, adolescents, and adults. They emphasized the importance of ensuring a supportive developmental environment for children and recommended that ADHD diagnosis and treatment be carried out according to established guidelines.

The Social Medicine Advisory Board at Kela addresses medical questions related to health insurance. It is appointed by Kelas Board of Directors for a three-year term and plays a crucial role in shaping health-related policies and practices.

HT
Diarrhea outbreak in India's Assam kills 11

Xinhua) 10:35, May 24, 2024

NEW DELHI, May 23 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 people were killed due to a diarrhea outbreak in the northeastern state of Assam, local media reports said Thursday.

The victims were identified as workers of a tea estate in Tinsukia district, about 512 km northeast of Dispur, the capital city of Assam.

"At least 11 workers of a tea estate in Assam's Tinsukia district have died due to diarrhea in the past week. Their co-workers alleged that they died due to unhygienic conditions and lack of proper drinking water in the area," a New Delhi-based television news channel NDTV said.

According to the news channel, federal minister Sarbananda Sonowal has expressed concern over the disease outbreak and directed the local government of Assam to assess the situation.

Sonowal has asked officials to provide immediate assistance to the people affected by the outbreak.

Meanwhile, reports said several others infected with the disease are undergoing treatment in the hospital.

It is suspected that contaminated water or food may have led to the outbreak.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
George Jacob, then CEO of the Aquarium of the Bay, poses for a portrait in 2018. Jacob resigned this week after the aquarium lost its accreditation from a key organization. Michael Short/Special to the Chronicle 2018

San Franciscos waterfront aquarium, which pushed out its CEO this week amid deep financial problems, has lost its accreditation from a key organization that certifies the institution is meeting international standards for the care and welfare of animals.

The Aquarium of the Bay, which operates under the nonprofit Bay.org, was stripped of its accreditation May 13 by the internationally respected Association of Zoos and Aquariums over concerns about its financial instability, staffing capabilities and employee morale and turnover, the association said in a statement Friday.

A jet-setting CEO and employee revolt: Inside the meltdown of an S.F. nonprofit

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This is really the face of what I believe to be gross mismanagement, said Jon B. Fisher, who recently became chairman of the Bay.org board and emphasized that he was made aware of the accreditation issues this week.

The aquarium remains open and the loss of accreditation will not impact aquarium operations, said Fisher.

Fisher said that the loss of the accreditation is among the reasons why the board asked its president and CEO, George Jacob, to resign Wednesday. Fisher was also concerned about Jacobs lavish spending on travel and events, including $460,000 for a climate awareness concert he hosted in Dubai, even as the aquarium struggled to survive. There had also been a mass resignation of employees at the Bay Institute, an environmental research and academic nonprofit, over Jacobs leadership.

Jacob told the Chronicle that he resigned to pursue an exciting new project. He has not made himself available for an interview.

Among the problems cited by the accreditor, according to Fisher, is a chiller that the aquarium uses to regulate the temperature of the water it draws from the bay.

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Aquarium staff members were preparing to send roughly 30% of the animals to other facilities because of deteriorating infrastructure, according to a May 13 letter that employees sent to the nonprofit board, which was obtained by the Chronicle.

Fisher said he has authorized the immediate repair of the equipment.

Dan Ashe, the president and CEO of the AZA, would not confirm whether equipment problems were a factor in the decision to rescind the aquariums accreditation.

In the statement, Ashe said that the association provides organizations with chances to address issues before it loses its status.



Despite multiple opportunities to comply with the requests of the (accreditation) commission to provide sufficient evidence of progress made to address the areas of concern as required by the terms of their 2023 accreditation, the Aquarium of the Bay failed to do so, he said.



In an email, Ashe said that the aquarium could appeal the decision by June 13 and reapply for accreditation in one year.
ARTISTS and makers are showing their work in 150 venues across South Oxfordshire in the final week of the Oxfordshire Artweeks from tomorrow (Saturday) to Monday, May 27, writes Esther Lafferty.

In Watlington Club four photographers are showing work that includes images of the natural world, abstract photography inspired by patterns, colours and shapes in nature and hand-printed cyanotypes by debutant Mark Batchelor, who uses natural sunlight and photosensitive emulsion to create images of modern architecture.

At Watlington library, Steph Hicks will be presenting a selection of works inspired by the plants and creatures seen at the seaside.

Her ideal day is spent foraging and she jokes that she likes to cook most of what she finds and then draws the rest.

She says: I fell in love with all the species while sailing around the coast of the UK last summer with my husband, spaniel and eight-month-old baby.

It took three months to circumnavigate the UK and although painting on a wobbly boat wasnt possible, I banked all the different flora and fauna in my mind to paint.

Alongside a seahorse, a curious crab and Pedro the puffin, Stephs exhibition includes seaweeds, sea lettuce, and an algae called mermaids cup.

Also inspired by coastal scenes, Alexandra Browne produces bespoke hand-painted ceramic tiles on which stylish sunbathers evoke a bygone era.

She says: I have always loved life drawing and nude art, which inspired my series of sunbathers in this Pampelonne series. Pampelonne is the beach most associated with St Tropez and the glamour of an A-lister lifestyle and the classic womans silhouette is simply beautiful.

At the Tree Barn in Christmas Common, a dozen artists will be showing their works in spaces including the barn, a beautiful old house and rolling lawns.

There will be figurative sculptures by Amanda Moser while Jessica Ingram is showing a variety of historical hand embroidery techniques, from Jacobean crewelwork to silk shading (thread painting), blackwork and goldwork.

Jessica trained at the Royal School of Needlework where she learnt how to conserve and restore historical embroidered textiles. She now works in the schools commercial studio. She was part of the studio team that worked on several projects for the coronation of King Charles III.

Ceramicist Satnam Bains will be showing his stoneware vessels. He makes them by adding touches of glass, often from a melted Bombay Sapphire gin bottle, to emphasise the colours and light.

He says: Im also experimenting with introducing a natural stone finish with small pieces of embedded Bombay glass and adding other clays, like porcelain powder and much darker black course clay into the pieces.

His latest pieces are inspired by the sights on his morning dog walks in his local woods as the trees and shrubs transition from winter into spring.

Printmaker Beverley Matchette-Downes is welcoming visitors to her studio in Turville.

She will be delighted to share her love of all that printmaking entails, including the processes, the alchemy and the happy accidents.

Her art is concerned with the tangible things which surround her, with pictorial space and composition.

She often uses her camera as a sketchbook and source of inspiration from which to draw and paint her images on to the printmaking plates.

For more information, visit www.artweeks.org
PLANS to extend the Henley Hopper bus service are expected to take effect soon.

The service, which is subsidised by the town council, currently runs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 9am and 2pm.

The ruling Henley Residents Group pledged to add two more days in April last year. The bus service was commissioned by the council in 2020 after Reading Buses ended its contract. It is now operated by TK Travel, of Reading, and is not-for-profit.

A meeting of the councils town and community committee heard that the bus working group had not met since last May.

But Councillor Ian Reissmann said the councils recently approved strategic plan included a commitment to extend the bus service to five days and he expected this to be fulfilled.

I would expect the bus working group to start meeting to put that in place, he said. I expect it will meet and that we can look at the meeting at that commitment. The bus is a lifeline for a small but significant number of people. Its the only way they can get in and out of town. We do want to extend it and that should increase the usage if everyone knows its available.

Town clerk Sheridan Jacklin-Edward said that Councillor Stefan Gawrysiak, who chairs the bus group, and town centre manager Paul Carey had met with the bus company to discuss a five-day service.

Hopefully that will be coming back to the bus working group and this committee shortly, he said.

Councillor Tony Hoskins said there could be an issue with fuel emissions if the frequency of the bus service was increased.

He said: I estimate the carbon emissions from the buses is seven tonnes and if it goes to five-day working, I think we need to think about what we consider is right for the bus utilisation and also the type of fuel used.

Committee chairman Glen Lambert said: Are you suggesting that the number of people using it might not justify the emissions?

Cllr Hoskins replied: The number of people using it I dont know but Ive just calculated the three buses and their distance three days a week. We need to think about how we actually manage that type of thing going forward.

Councillor Gill Dodds said: When we met the bus company they were looking at a green bus and I dont know what the outcome of that was. The other thing is, is it going to be Monday to Friday or is it going to be Tuesday to Saturday? That was one thing that we hadnt quite sorted.

Cllr Reissmann said he agreed with Cllr Hoskins.

Its a diesel bus, far from ideal, he said. We did have a gas bus originally and electric buses are coming in. Where I work in London the bus services that go past my office are all electric.

Technology is changing and one of the things that I hope the bus group looks at is to make us electric and start addressing the concerns that we all have to reduce pollution even further, which public transport does do even if in itself its increasing the amount of emissions.

Mayor Rory Hunt said: Were looking at when the bus comes up for replacement replacing it with an electric or hydrogen bus.

The Hopper is subsidised by the council, which has been supporting the service since Oxfordshire County Council removed its subsidies as a cost-cutting measure in 2016.

The council has been using financial contributions from developers to fund the scheme.
A NEW art gallery in Henley is to open this evening (Friday).

Art curator Sam Farlow, 25, from Park Corner, near Nettlebed, is using the Spray Gallery in Friday Street to exhibit street art and graffiti by artists from Montpellier in the south of France.

He had the idea for the gallery in 2022 and has been supported by his parents, Geoff and Clare, who backed him from the planning stages to fitting the new premises.

Mr Farlow, who studied French and classics at Royal Holloway University, said: I chose Henley because not only is it local to me but theres nothing like it here.

He will showcase spray-paint themed work by artists he has a connection with, having met them while staying in Montpellier for six months during his third year of university.

Mr Farlow said: I want to promote what I am passionate about. Its a niche area.

These artists are your real-deal, hardworking artists. They all started on the streets. Theyre funky, diverse, eclectic.
Portraits of famous scientists and teachers are on displayed on the wall behind part of a molecular model of hemoglobin at the Mission Science Workshop in San Francisco. The nonprofit community science education center could lose city funding due to a scaled-back budget. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

San Franciscans are about to find out how big a hit city services could take as Mayor London Breed and local legislators prepare to close another huge deficit.

In the coming days, Breed is expected to unveil her next spending plan that will detail how she intends to keep the government afloat despite a nearly $800 million two-year shortfall caused largely by rising costs, weak tax revenue linked to the citys ailing downtown, and the slow return of the tourism industry decimated by the pandemic.

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Its both a logistical and a political challenge for Breed, who is running for reelection in November against four major challengers, two of whom sit on the Board of Supervisors, which will vet and approve the budget over the next two months. Some supervisors have been openly critical of Breeds financial approach.

Further complicating Breeds budget calculus, her administration just reached tentative contract deals with the unions representing most of City Halls 35,000 employees, averting a threatened strike but adding an estimated $99 million in costs on top of the increased salaries and benefits the city was already projecting for the next two years.

This budget has not been easy and its been a lot of work, Breed said on social media this week, promising to continue funding her top priorities of public safety, homelessness and the economic recovery but warning of some difficult choices and cuts in store.

San Franciscans are about to find out how big a hit city services could take as Mayor London Breed and local legislators prepare to close another huge deficit. Loren Elliott/Special to the Chronicle

City officials have warned for months that the next budget would be especially hard to figure out amid ongoing problems in the local economy and last years heavy reliance on one-time funds to balance the current $14.6 billion budget. In December, Breed told her departments to plan for 10% cuts in the upcoming two fiscal years.

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While Breed hasnt revealed which programs she plans to cull, some potential impacts are beginning to come into focus  and prompting early resistance from city-funded nonprofits on the chopping block.

One such organization, the Mission Science Workshop, says it may become a shadow of itself because the city Department of Children, Youth and Their Families awarded just 20% of the grant funding sought by the nonprofit during the next five years. The department was conservative with the grant money it awarded this year in light of the budget directions.

Mission Science Workshop offers free after-school science education in both English and Spanish to many students of color in grades K-12 at its Excelsior district storefront workshop, and at locations at Mission High School and Charles Drew Elementary in the Bayview, along with other programming.

Located in a former dollar store on Mission Street, the Excelsior storefront space is where the nonprofit runs its main after-school program and displays its scientific wonders, including a baby gray whale skeleton called Gracie and a giant model of a blood vessel kids can wander through. But the storefront is poised to close if it cant regain the loss in funding, said Executive Director Sonia Gandiaga.

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We cannot tolerate this, Gandiaga said one recent afternoon as children raced from exhibit to exhibit around her. She has appealed the city grant funding decision.

Because Breed has yet to finish her budget proposal, its possible the youth and families department will get enough funding to award more grant money to programs such as Mission Science Workshop.

Still, there could be dozens of nonprofits like the workshop hit hard by budget cuts in the years ahead. San Francisco is seeing lower than expected returns across some key tax revenue sources that feed into its general fund, the citys main discretionary spending account. A Controllers Office report this month found that taxes on businesses, local sales, hotel rooms and real estate transfers were all coming in below budget this fiscal year. Collectively, those taxes make up more than 20% of the $6.5 billion general fund.

Julia Nowicki, 10, and Daria Roshan Eisner, 9, play a pulley puzzle game at the Mission Science Workshop in San Francisco. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

Given the citys cloudy financial outlook, promising substantial raises for city workers, as Breed has done, may make the budget even harder to balance in future years, said Dan Lindheim, a former Oakland city administrator whos now a professor at UC Berkeleys public policy school.

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But Lindheim added that hes not sure Breed had a choice, given that shes fighting to keep her job.

Its particularly tough going into an election, Lindheim said.

Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for Breed, said the next budget will require longer-term answers to the deficit. He said the mayor is committed to investing in public safety and improving street conditions, so cuts in those areas are unlikely. But shes also been taking a close look at which city programs are actually delivering for the residents, Cretan said.

When youre in flush budget years, sometimes theres more flexibility to try different things. Thats not the world were in right now, he said.

Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, whos running for mayor against Breed, expects that San Francisco community groups and residents who have become accustomed to boom-time city spending over the past decade may be incensed by some of the tough decisions he and his colleagues will make in the weeks ahead. But its time for San Francisco to return to a back-to-basics budget, he said.

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He said Breed needs to take a harsher approach with her departments and city contractors, and that she kicked the can down the road last year by closing funding gaps with too many one-time funds.

Another Breed critic with sway over city spending is Supervisor Connie Chan, a progressive who chairs the boards budget committee. Chan said she agrees with Peskin that the city needs to scrutinize contracts shown to be wasteful. She wants to eliminate currently vacant positions and stop hiring highly paid manager-level positions.

Chan said she doesnt want to close the citys fiscal gap on the backs of working families. She promised to utilize every legislative tool available to me to hold the mayor and city departments accountable.

Supervisor Ahsha Safai, another mayoral candidate, said he wants the mayor to keep social services for young people and vulnerable families and criticized her plan to fundraise $25 million to bring pandas to the San Francisco zoo.

If were going to prioritize anything, it should be kids over pandas, Safai said. We should be able to go out and do both.

Veronica Hernandez shows Lala the bearded dragon to (clockwise from bottom left) Emilia Lewis, 3, Ezekiel Lewis, 5, Martina Fabela, 7, and Miguel Fabela, 3, at the Mission Science Workshop in San Francisco. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

Cretan, Breeds spokesperson, stressed that the panda fundraising effort is drawing entirely on private philanthropy and has nothing to do with the budget.

Back at the Mission Science Workshop in the Excelsior, SFUSD parent Chi-En Yu said the sites potential closure would be a significant loss for her kids and the community.

Yu, along with other parents, was writing a letter to Breed asking to keep the space open, which she called a place where people from different backgrounds can come together.

Gandiaga said the storefront and its after-school program will be forced to close and shell have to lay off most of its staff if additional funds dont come through. That would make it impossible to visit the 60 schools throughout the city it works with annually, where it hauls out its scientific wonders.

By the end of the year, Gandiaga said, the doors would have to be closed, cutting off many of the 16,000 K-12 students her organization serves annually from the workshops science programming.

While Yu finished her letter, another note to Breed scrawled in a childs hand sat on a stack of them nearby.
The coming together of the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the fight against the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi has certainly made the contest interesting. However, it still may not be easy for the two-party alliance to turn the tables against the BJP in Delhi's seven Lok Sabha seats, which polls on Saturday.

Not only did the BJP win all seven in 2019, the party polled 56.5% % votes in Delhi, which was 16% higher compared to the 40.6% combined vote share of the AAP and the Congress.

Even if we assume a perfect vote transfer between the Congress and AAP, the alliance will still trail the BJP by a big margin.

The Congress-AAP alliance's task of defeating the BJP in Delhi is an uphill one. It would need a 12% swing in its favour to wrest all seven seats from the BJP, assuming that the BJP suffers a similar percentage of negative swing.

Even for winning four of the seven Lok Sabha seats, the AAP-Congress alliance requires an eight percent swing in its favour. A nine percent swing in favour of the AAP-Congress alliance can only give them five seats and even for snatching one Lok Sabha seat from the BJP, the alliance needs a five percent swing in its favour.

A vote swing between two elections is not unusual; it happens and happens more among urban voters, but the magnitude of swing required to generate a wave against the BJP in Delhi may not be easy for the AAP-Congress alliance despite the twin issues of unemployment and price rise.

The big question, however, remains: How big a challenge can the AAP-Congress alliance pose to the BJP in Delhi?

A negative swing against the BJP, however, is on the cards. Prime Minister Narendra Modis popularity seems to remain intact among Delhi voters but people seemed dissatisfied with the work done by their sitting MPs.

Preempting this mood swing among Delhi's residents, the BJP was quick to replace, six of its seven sitting MPs, hoping to tide over the unhappiness among Delhi voters.

The BJP re-nominated only its candidate from the North East Delhi Lok Sabha seat Manoj Tewari who is up against the Congress candidate Kanhaiya Kumar.

But a wholesale change of sitting MPs seems to have turned against the BJP as the AAP-Congress alliance has posed a sharp question: Why were these MPs replaced?

Also, most candidates fielded by the BJP are new to Delhi voters compared to the candidates fielded by the AAP and the Congress. In the past, the BJPs experiment to field new candidates has been successful; they had once changed the entire cabinet a year before the Gujarat Assembly election and registered a record win. Even in 2024, the BJP has replaced 113 of its sitting MPs. But one cant be sure that this strategy will always pay dividends.

The AAP and Congress have fielded seasoned leaders like Udit Raj (Congress) from North West Delhi, who had represented this constituency in 2014 on a BJP ticket; Mahabal Mishra (AAP) from West Delhi was an MP in 2009 from Congress party from the same constituency and Jai Prakash Agarwal (Congress) is contesting from Chandni Chowk, a 2009 Congress MP from North East Delhi.

Experience in politics helps and should give these candidates some advantage over the new faces mostly fielded by the BJP. But given the increasing number of young voters and their increasing interest and participation in elections, one does not know if their preference would be for new and young faces or for seasoned politicians.

Of the factors that need to be tracked when Delhi votes this Saturday, one is of much importance: The voter turnout given the ongoing heat wave and forecast for an even hotter Saturday.

Voting being held on a holiday (Saturday) is also a concern as residents might want to remain at home or could have even planned a weekend holiday.

The last four Lok Sabha elections have indicated a mixed trend of voter participation in Delhi. The turnout was 47.1% during the 2004 Lok Sabha elections which went up to 51.8% in 2009 and increased further to 65.1% during the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

But while turnout all over the country increased between 2014 and 2019, Delhi bucked the trend, as it declined to 60.6% during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

It is not unusual for urban constituencies to witness lower turnout compared to rural areas. Delhi is no exception. The last five rounds of voting have mostly witnessed turnout declining in a large number of constituencies.

Voter turnout declined in Mumbai but marginally. Mumbai residents have shown reasonably good participation in these elections; I only hope that Delhi voters will also follow the trend, braving the heat.

One does not know which way the voters will vote in Delhi, but it is clear if a trend of split voting among Delhi voters continues  as we have seen during the last decade  it could be advantage BJP.

Voters favoured the BJP in a big way both in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections, but voted for the AAP in the state assembly elections of 2015 and 2020. This time, Delhi will witness a straight AAP-Congress-against-BJP contest, different from the three-way contest of the past decade. Whether this will influence the result remains to be seen.

Sanjay Kumar is a Professor at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) and a well-known psephologist. Views expressed are personal.
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Business Wire India In an era defined by intricate global supply chains and dynamic market landscapes, organisations face unprecedented challenges in optimising their operations. Recent disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for professionals equipped to navigate complexity, mitigate risks, and optimise end-to-end supply chain operations for sustained success. Recognising the need to equip professionals with methodologies, frameworks, and best SCM practices, the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC), one of the leading B-schools in India, ranked 4th by NIRF 2023, launched the 12th batch of Advanced Programme in Supply Chain Management in partnership with Emeritus, a global pioneer in offering accessible and affordable high-quality education to individuals and organisations.



This high-impact 12-month programme is meticulously curated for mid to senior-level professionals, seeking to elevate their expertise in the dynamic realm of Supply Chain Management. It is also tailored for seasoned professionals looking to navigate the intricacies of Chain Management or seeking innovative strategies to optimise various aspects such as purchasing, production, inventory control, and logistics. Additionally, professionals aspiring to broaden their career horizons within logistics or supply chain management, be it in service or manufacturing organisations, will find this programme beneficial in helping them unlock new opportunities and drive success.



According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) report titled Worldwide Small and Medium-Sized Business and Digital-Native Business 2023 Predictions  India Implications, by 2025 around 30% of Indian Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) will consider intelligence decision systems to promote R&D and supply chain management. It further predicts that logistics and supply chain managers are more focused on meeting demand rather than just managing supply and therefore it is an ideal time for professionals to enhance their skills for a promising career in supply chain management. Aimed at addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field, this programme rightly equips participants with an integrated understanding of contemporary best practices in supply chain management and logistics and helps them with end-to-end supply chain visibility and continued success.

The IIM Calcutta Advanced Programme in Supply Chain Management, designed by renowned IIMC faculty, includes live online sessions delivered by top IIM Calcutta faculty as well as an 8-day in-campus immersion at the IIM Calcutta campus. It also includes a capstone project guided by IIM Calcutta Faculty, real-world case-studies, hands-on learning through business simulations on supply chain and an opportunity for peer-to-peer learning. The programme includes modules such as introducing supply chain management, supply chain strategy, inventory management, procurement and sourcing management, and ecommerce supply chain & fulfilment among others.



Through this programme, participants will be able to:

Cultivate advanced strategic thinking skills in supply chain management and logistics to effectively analyse and optimise intricate global supply networks

Attain proficiency in leveraging cutting-edge tools and technologies to enhance supply chain efficiency and supply chain transformation

Develop expertise in fostering supply chain agility and distribution, facilitating swift adaptation to evolving market dynamics and customer demands

Assess and refine supply chain performance metrics by harnessing data-driven insights to pinpoint areas for enhancement and drive continuous improvement throughout the supply chain

Design and implement collaborative supply chain and sourcing strategies to cultivate closer partnerships, promote information sharing, and optimise coordination

Commenting on the launch of the programme, Mohan Kannegal, CEO, India and APAC, Emeritus, said, Recent disruptions have underscored the critical need for agile and adaptable supply chain management practices. Through a focus on operational activities like procurement, logistics, and sales planning, this programme empowers participants to enhance end-to-end visibility and harness opportunities for continued growth. The Advanced Programme in Supply Chain Management (APSCM) by IIM Calcutta will equip professionals with the essential tools and strategies to successfully assume cross-functional roles, efficiently coordinate with suppliers and customers, and drive corporate success. We are thrilled to partner with esteemed institutions like IIM Calcutta to launch high-impact programmes that will help participants in their professional journeys.

The eligibility for this programme includes Graduates (10+2+3) and Diploma holders (10+2+3)/ Postgraduates from a recognised university (UGC/AICTE/DEC/AIU/State Government/recognised international universities) with a minimum of three years of work experience. This programme is set to begin on June 30, 2024, with a fee of INR 4,60,000 plus GST (Discount of INR 10,000 available until May 29, 2024).

Upon successful completion of the programme and maintaining a minimum attendance of 75 percent, participants will be awarded a certificate of completion from IIM Calcutta. They will also be eligible for prestigious IIM Calcutta executive education alumni status.



About IIM Calcutta



IIM Calcutta's Executive Education programmes meet the needs of experienced working professionals and practising managers interested in advancing their cross-functional skills, strategic vision and superior management expertise. These programmes are designed to equip our participants to question existing assumptions, identify emerging opportunities, solve complex business problems, enhance operational performance, improve productivity, and build a sustainable competitive advantage. Whether through face-to-face interactions and live online sessions with faculty and industry thought leaders or working collaboratively with experienced peers, you'll achieve and exceed your learning aspirations with an acquired proficiency to tackle today's most complex business challenges.



About Emeritus



Emeritus offers customised and open programs in India, Singapore, Dubai and other global locations in collaboration with IIM Lucknow Executive Education, IIM Calcutta Executive Education, ISB Executive Education, Harvard Business School (HBS), MIT Sloan, Columbia Business School, Kellogg Executive Education, Berkeley Executive Education, and Wharton Executive Education, amongst other leading Institutions. Our world-class executive education programs, facilitated by eminent program experts, provide an immersive learning experience integrated with actionable insights and practical business applications and are delivered in a range of formats; in-class, online, as well as blended programs. The Emeritus Group has more than 1,750 employees globally and offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Shanghai, Singapore, Palo Alto, Mexico City, New York, Boston, London, and Dubai. The company is backed by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Leeds Illuminate, Prosus Ventures, GSV Ventures, Peak XV, Bertelsmann, CPPIB, Accel and SoftBank Vision Fund 2. For more information, please visit https://emeritus.org/.

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The UK's energy sector regulator on Friday announced a drop in the price cap for bills from July, catapulting a key cost-of-living issue into the second day of general election campaigning. Britain's Prime Minister and Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak(AFP)

The cap on energy bills for most UK households will drop by seven percent on the back of sliding wholesale costs, regulator Ofgem revealed.

The annual amount suppliers are allowed to charge an average household consuming electricity and gas in England, Scotland and Wales will decline to 1,568 ($1,990) from 1,690 from the start of July. It had also been lowered in April.

Also Read | Boost for Rishi Sunak? UK exits recession with better-than-expected 0.6% growth

The announcement comes two days after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired the starting gun on a July 4 general election -- but his governing Conservatives are still far behind the main opposition Labour party in opinion polls.

Tory ministers immediately seized on the news to argue it was further evidence that Sunak's plans to return the UK's economy to growth and ease several years of cost-of-living pressures of people were working.

Also Read | UK general election set for July 4; Rishi Sunak to face voters for first time as PM

"This is the second biggest big cut that we've seen," energy minister Claire Coutinho told Sky News, describing it as "really welcome news".

"Our gas prices are now lower on average than other European countries... I want to see (bills) continue to be lower for people."

The new price cap will be about 500 less than in July 2023 but remains more than 400 higher than in 2021.

Also Read | Peak Britain: Rishi Sunak announcing polls drenched in rain sparks wave of jibes, memes

Ofgem added Friday that bills will fall further on lower wholesale energy costs, which had spiked following key producer Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Paytm layoffs: Paytm parent company One97 Communications may cut jobs to reduce its employee costs this fiscal year, it was reported. The company may cut around 15-20 per cent of its workforce, Financial Express reported. This means that the workforce could be reduced by 5,000-6,300 employees as One97 Communications aims to save 400-500 crore. Paytm layoffs: Paytm founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma during an event in Mumbai, (PTI)

How many employees does One97 Communications have?

In FY23, One97 Communications had an average of 32,798 employees on payroll- 29,503 actively working. For FY24, total employee costs increased by 34 per cent year-on-year to 3,124 crore.

When will Paytm start layoffs?

Read more: Sony Pictures Networks India MD & CEO NP Singh to step down after 25-year stint

The reduction process has already begun with over 1,000 employees terminated in December as the company aims to streamline operations and cut costs, the report claimed.

What about Paytm's Q4 results?

Paytm reported a net loss of 550 crore in the January-March quarter, compared to 168 crore the previous year. The company's revenue from operations fell by 3 per cent year-on-year to 2,267 crore in the March quarter after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank.

What Vijay Shekhar Sharma said on Paytm's future?

Paytm's Vijay Shekhar Sharma acknowledged the impact on revenue and profitability from the RBI's regulatory actions and said, We learned a lot of our lessons to become better and resilient. We also resolved to be fully compliant according to the regulators expectations in letter and spirit.
Sony Pictures Networks India said that its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer NP Singh has resigned from the post after 25 years of working with the company. In a statement, NP Singh said, Today, I have a significant update to share. After nearly 44 years in my career, including a rewarding 25-year tenure at SPNI, I have decided to move on from my role as MD and CEO. NP Singh rose to the post of CFO of Sony India in 1999 and CEO in 2019.

He said that he will now focus on social change and shift from operational roles to advisory ones, adding, However, my commitment to SPNI and its success remains strong. During my time here, we have established industry benchmarks, expanded our reach, and achieved many noteworthy accomplishments.

He continued, "I am dedicated to ensuring our legacy of success continues and grows under the new leadership.

I will continue to lead SPNI until we find the right person to take over. We have begun a structured succession planning process for my successor and hope to have exciting news to share in the near future. Finding the right fit is our top priority, he said.

NP Singh rose to the post of CFO of Sony India in 1999 and CEO in 2019. An alumnus of the Delhi School of Economics, he has also been the chief operating officer (COO) of the company.

NP Singh holds a Bachelors' degree in Commerce from the University of Delhi. and a Masters' degree from Delhi School of Economics.
Nifty hit fresh all-time high on May 24 amid buoyant investors' sentiment ahead of Lok Sabha election results and fresh foreign fund inflows. The results of Lok Sabha elections 2024 is scheduled on June 4. Stock market today: The stock market index on a display screen at the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building in Mumbai.(PTI)

BSE Sensex also climbed 164 points to hit its all-time high of 75,582.

NSE Nifty went up by 36.4 points to breach the 23,000 mark for the first time ever and reached its lifetime peak of 23,004.05. But this rally was propelled by five stocks which contributed over 75 percent to the 1,000-point surge. These are: ICICI Bank Ltd, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, State Bank of India, Reliance Industries Ltd, and Bharti Airtel Ltd.

ICICI Bank was the largest contributor- over 17.3 per cent- followed by Mahindra & Mahindra and State Bank of India which contributed over 16 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. Reliance Industries Ltd contributed 15 per cent while Bharti Airtel Ltd contributed 14 per cent.

Meanwhile, HDFC Bank led the pack of index draggers, pulling down the index by 19%, followed by Bajaj Finance and Asian Paints, which pushed it southward by 5% and 4% respectively.

This comes as Sensex surged over 1,000 points while Nifty closed near 23,000 mark on May 23 after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced special dividend of over 2 lakh crore.
Bernstein said that the Indian stock market could witness a short-term rally if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) returns to power with 330-350 seats. This has a high probability, the global research firm said, predicting that the rally could push Nifty 50 past the 23,000-mark and would be followed by profit-taking "as the reality of execution and valuations emerge." Supporters at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting in support of BJP candidates for Lok Sabha polls, at Dwarka in New Delhi.(PTI)

Which stocks could outperform as per Bernstein?

Bernstein noted that expects infrastructure, manufacturing, domestic cyclical sectors, some financials, and state-owned enterprises (PSUs) could outperform. Although, consumer and IT sectors are likely to underperform and small and midcap stocks may outshine large-caps for some time.

Continuity of power is the suggested factor behind the market rallying in November/December 2023, it said. Highlighting the role of government in managing capital expenditure, the report said, A change will likely deliver haphazard growth with the risk of a shorter upcycle with structural challenges after that for those linked to capex.

4 possible outcomes for elections and impact on stock markets as per Bernstein

Bernstein said that there could be an impact on the stock markets in case of four possible election outcomes:
Hitting out at the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka for the alleged "deteriorating law and order situation" in the state, the BJP termed the Silicon City as "Udta Bengaluru" and alleged the city is becoming the "adda" for narcotic substances and rave parties. 'Udta Bengaluru' : BJP hits at Cong govt after drugs found at a farmhouse party

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Friday said it was not right on the part of the opposition to say Bengaluru is becoming "Udta Bengaluru" and should not cast aspersions.

Also Read - High-profile rave party busted at Bengaluru farm house, drugs seized

The development comes after the Bengaluru Police busted a rave party at a farmhouse here recently which was allegedly attended by 103 people. Of them, 86 individuals, including a Telugu film actress, tested positive for narcotics, according to police, citing medical tests.

Taking to 'X', the BJP has alleged that since the Congress government came to power in Karnataka, "immoral gatherings" were happening everywhere in Bengaluru.

"Law and order has deteriorated, government chaos has been exposed. After the Congress government came to power, immoral gatherings are happening everywhere in Bengaluru. Silicon City is now full of drugs, cannabis drug rave parties," BJP Karnataka said in a post in Kannada.

The BJP also used a poster featuring Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar with the hashtags #BadBengaluru and #CongressFailsKarnataka to hit out at the state government.

In the poster shared by BJP on 'X', it termed the capital city as "Udta Bengaluru" and alleged "Silicon City is becoming an "adda" (hub) for narcotic substances and rave parties are rampant."

The BJP used "Udta Bengaluru" in reference to the 2016 Bollywood movie "Udta Punjab", which highlighted drug abuse by youth in Punjab.

Responding to the allegations levelled by the BJP, Parameshwara said that the state government is hard on this (drug menace) and will not spare anybody.

"We are very hard on this. We don't spare anybody and we have already declared, you know, to see that Karnataka is free from all these drugs and we are doing it. Hundreds of crores of drugs have been seized. We have burnt it and we are continuously monitoring it.

"Many of the foreign students have been deported and we are continuously monitoring their whereabouts and actions and we don't spare anybody," he told reporters here.

Parameshwara further said that the opposition can tell us if we have failed in our fight against drugs, but they should not cast aspersions.

"I don't think it is right on the part of the opposition to say Bengaluru is becoming "Udta Bengaluru". They should not talk about such things. Let them tell us if we have failed in our fight against drugs. But they should not cast aspersions," he added.

A total of 103 people had participated in the party, which was organised under the pretext of a birthday party. The participants included 73 men and 30 women.

Police seized MDMA (Ecstasy) pills, MDMA crystals, hydro cannabis, cocaine, high-end cars, DJ equipment, including sound and lighting worth 1.5 crore during the raid at the farmhouse near Electronics City in the wee hours of May 19.

After the raid, police collected the blood samples of the participants in a private hospital, which revealed that 59 men and 27 women tested positive for narcotics.

"Most of the people who attended the party were consuming drugs. The Central Crime Branch will issue notices to those who tested positive," a police source had said.
Amid the soaring temperatures and heatwave, some schools in the city continue to organise functions for the students, violating the directions issued by the government that mandates their closure. Following the complaints of schools being open, the district education officer (DEO) Harjinder Singh acted upon the matter and issued a warning to the concerned schools. (HT File)

According to the information, as many as 10 schools received a notice on Tuesday for violating the government order which directed all the schools in the district to remain close from May 20 till June 30.

Following the complaints of schools being open, the district education officer (DEO) Harjinder Singh acted upon the matter and issued a warning to the concerned schools.

However, a few private schools are still violating the rules by conducting one-day events for the students and parents in their premises.

Sat Paul Mittal School organised a prize distribution function on Wednesday for the top scorers of classes 10 and 12 in the recently declared Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) results. The awardees along with their parents were present for the event. Other students also performed at the programme.

Upon receiving a complaint, deputy commissioner Sakshi Sawhney directed the DEO to look into the matter.

In another incident, BCM International School commemorated Parents Day on Thursday where the kindergarten students were invited along with their parents.

Upon questioning about the violation of rule, principal Jasneev Seth said, The preparations for the function had started around a week prior and parents had already paid for the props. So, we had to conduct the programme. From now on, we would operate as per the rules.

Deputy DEO Jaswinder Singh Virk said that they have been acting upon the complaints as directed by the DC.

Directorate of secondary education Paramjeet Singh said that the schools are not allowed to invite students even for functions. This is clear violation of rules and definite action would be taken against such schools, he added.
Ida Mojadad is a San Francisco journalist who has reported enterprise, investigative and daily news coverage focused on schools, youth and families. She previously covered housing, health care and city politics, among other topics, for SF Weekly and the San Francisco Examiner. While at the San Francisco Standard, she published a series of revelations about hidden school sexual misconduct. Ida is a graduate of San Francisco State University and serves as Vice President of the Society of Professional Journalists Northern California chapter.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government in Himachal Pradesh a talabaaz sarkar for shutting down the staff selection commission and several offices set up by the BJP government that preceded it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed during the Vijay Sankalp Rally at Nahan in Sirmaur district on Friday. Modi was campaigning for Shimla BJP candidate Suresh Kashyap. (HT Photo)

Addressing the Vijay Sankalp rally at Nahans Chaugan Ground while campaigning for Shimla BJP candidate Suresh Kashyap, the PM said: On one side is Modis guarantee and on the other tall promises of the Congress. The Congress government promised one lakh jobs at its first cabinet meeting, but this talabaaz sarkar (one that believes in locking everything) cant offer jobs. Naukraiyan nahin de sakti (This government cant open job avenues).

Also read: Central funds for Himachal flood victims distributed selectively: PM

In February last year, the Sukhu government disbanded the HPSSC after a paper leak was detected in December 2022. In October 2023, the state government notified the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog (HPRCA) would replace the Hamirpur-based HPSSC.

Strikes chord with Nahan

Modi accused the Congress government of reversing developmental works and prioritising political vendetta over public welfare. He highlighted that these closures had negatively impacted the states growth.

Striking a chord by donning the traditional Himachal lohiya (cap) and recalling his old association with the hill state, Modi said: Neither Nahan nor Sirmaur is new for me but I have to say that todays atmosphere is new as Ive never seen such a historic rally in Nahan. Ive come here to seek your blessings for a third term of the BJP, not for myself or my family but for a developed nation and developed Himachal.

The Prime Minister said the people of Himachal Pradesh live along the border and know the value of a strong nation. I assure you that I wont let any harm come to you, he said.

Guns for Congress on OROP

Modi targeted the Congress for not accepting the demand for One Rank One Pension (OROP). He said the Congress did not accept the demand for OROP for 40 years but after he declared at a rally of ex-servicemen in Jhajjar in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls that the BJP would implement it, the Congress insulted the veterans by earmarking just 500 crore for the scheme.

The Congress opposed the Ram temple and teased us with slogans like Mandir wahin banaenge, tareekh nahin bataenge. We not only declared the date but also performed the pran pratishtha (of the Ram temple) and the Congress boycotted it to appease its vote bank, he said, claiming that an aide of a top Congress leader has said that a conspiracy is being hatched to put a lock on the Ram temple in Ayodhya and shift Ram Lalla to a tent again if the party wins the Lok Sabha elections.

Modi alleged that a conspiracy is being hatched to snatch the reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs and give it to Muslims. The Congress has already done it in Karnataka, he said, adding that the high court in Kolkata had quashed OBC certificates conferred on 77 classes of Muslims to please the vote bank but West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee is not honouring the court order.

The high court on Wednesday struck down as illegal the OBC status of several classes in West Bengal granted since 2010, observing that the inclusion of 77 classes of Muslims in the list of backward categories was to treat them as vote bank.

There are poor people in upper castes as well, Modi said.

He said his government has provided 10% quota for the upper caste poor but did not snatch it from any other caste.
The toilets at Mother and Child Hospital (MCH), civil hospital complex remained closed for over a month, even after the deputy commissioner Sakshi Sawhney visited the facility and asked to make it functional within a week. The locked toilets due to blockage of sewerage pipes at Mother and Child Hospital in Ludhiana on Friday. (Manish/HT)

MCH senior medical officer Dr Deepika confirmed that the toilets were yet to be opened. She said that the Punjab Health System Corporation sub-divisional officer (SDO) Sukhwant Singh was asked to look into the matter but the contractor was delaying the work.

DC Sakshi Sawhney had visited the hospital on April 12 and pulled up the officials over lack of hygiene and the locked toilets. The DC had asked the SDO to ensure that the sewer piper was fixed which blocks the toilets. The stagnant water rear the hospital should also be cleared within a week, the DC had said.

SDO Sukhwant Singh didnt respond to repeated calls when approached for a comment on this matter.

According to the information, the attendants of the patients have to wait in the open area with stagnant water, open dustbins, garbage and flies.
Dehradun: A major accident was averted early on Friday after a helicopter carrying seven people, including six pilgrims and the pilot, made an emergency landing after it developed a technical snag while trying to land at the helipad at Kedarnath shrine. Helicopter developed a technical snag while landing at the helipad (Twitter/video screengrab)

Today at around 7am, a helicopter of Kestrel Aviation company, carrying six passengers along with a pilot, took off from Sirsi for Kedarnath Dham. Due to a technical snag in the helicopter, the chopper had to make an emergency landing some distance from the Kedarnath helipad, said Rudraprayag district magistrate Dr Saurabh Gaharwar.

Gaharwar said that all the passengers on board were safe.

The pilot did not lose his patience and showed wisdom and made an emergency landing of the helicopter, he added.

He said the reason for the technical fault in the helicopter is being investigated.

In April 2023, a senior official of the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) died after being hit by the tail rotor of a helicopter in Kedarnath.

In October 2022, a chopper crashed in Kedarnath, killing six devotees and the pilot. After the crash, the UCADA had written to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to set up an air traffic control system in Kedarnath to monitor the operation of heli services in the area.

In Kedarnath, during the Char Dham yatra, choppers make a daily average of 400 sorties.
Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2024: The India Meteorological Department has predicted heatwave conditions at isolated locations in the national capital on Saturday, May 25, coinciding with Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha elections, during which all seven parliamentary seats will be contested. According to the weather department, Delhi is expected to experience a maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius. Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2024: Delhi is expected to experience a maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius on Saturday, May 25. (File)(REUTERS)

Mainly clear sky. Warm night and heat wave conditions at isolated places. Strong surface winds (speed 25-35 kmph) occasionally in gusty during the day, the regional meteorological centre, New Delhi predicted for Saturday.

According to the meteorological centre, moderate temperatures will be observed on Saturday, May 25. While the heat is manageable for the general public, it poses a moderate health risk for vulnerable individuals such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. The weather agency advised people to avoid heat exposure and to wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing. Additionally, they recommended covering the head with a cloth, hat, or umbrella.

Delhi Chief Electoral Officer P Krishnamurthy emphasised that comprehensive measures have been implemented to address the anticipated high temperatures of 44 to 45 degrees Celsius, based on directives from the Election Commission and the intense heat wave forecast by the IMD.

Heatwave warning

According to the latest weather bulletin from the IMD, some parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh may face heatwave conditions until May 27.

West Uttar Pradesh may experience heatwave conditions on May 26 and 27, while East Uttar Pradesh is expected to face heatwave conditions from May 25 to 27. Isolated pockets of Delhi may also experience heatwave conditions until May 27.

Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2024

Delhi is set for the Lok Sabha elections, with voting scheduled on Saturday, May 25. Polling will take place from 7 am to 6 pm across all the seven parliamentary constituencies.

In response to the heatwave alert issued by the India Meteorological Department, authorities have made arrangements at polling stations throughout Delhi.

The main contest is between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the INDIA alliance, which includes the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The AAP and Congress have allied to contest the elections in Delhi, with the AAP contesting four seats and the Congress three.

Seven constituencies are: Chandni Chowk, North East Delhi, East Delhi, New Delhi, North West Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) focussed on the politics of negativity in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls but its campaign got trapped in its own negative agenda, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav said on Thursday, expressing confidence about trouncing the ruling party in Uttar Pradesh. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. (Deepak Gupta/HT Photo)

Also Read | Double Engine will collide in these polls: Akhilesh

In an interview, Yadav said that the SP will emerge as the single-largest party in Uttar Pradesh and the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) will have the most seats, argued that problems such as unemployment and exam paper leaks had angered the people, and alleged that former ally Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) was hand-in-glove with the BJP.

The N in NDA (the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance) means negative; theirs is the politics is of negativity, he said, contrasting it with the INDIA blocs campaign focussed on PDA, the Hindi acronym for backward classes  pichde, scheduled castes  Dalit, and minorities  alpsankhyak; a term the SP leader has repeatedly used this election season.

P is also for progressive and P is also for Purvanchal (the key region of east UP going to polls on Saturday) I have been saying that we are winning 79 seats and have a fight in one seat.

Yadavs comments came ahead of the sixth phase of the general elections on May 25, when 58 seats across eight states and Union territories will go to the polls. This includes 14 seats in the crucial eastern UP region.

He said the BJP was wary of losing and hence added a communal edge to its campaign.

The government has failed and is allowing businessmen close to them to exploit common people to make profits. The failure of the government has made us confidentWhen the BJP leaders found that they are losing the elections, they moved to a negative narrative. They are raising the issue of Hindu-Muslim, Pakistan. Speeches of both the PM and the CM are depressing, he said.

Akhilesh said that people had understood the game plan of the BJP to amend the Constitution.

The followers of Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar and those who want to strengthen democracy and the Constitution have united and have joined the PDA family of the SP. Now the BJP is finding itself out of the contest, he said, adding that the SP had successfully built a big social base.

He also hit out at the BSP, a party he fought with in 2019 only to fall out later. In 2019, the SP-BSP alliance won 15 seats, with the former winning five and the latter winning 10.

The BJP won 62 seats, the Congress one and BJP ally Apna Dal winning two.

The BSP is hand-in-glove with the BJP. There is a secret understanding between the two. Today, I am coming back from Jaunpur. People are openly talking about the BJP-BSP bonhomie there, he said, pointing to a seat where the BSP changed its candidate at the last minute amid controversy.

He said that the people felt cheated by the BJP government because of rising prices and unemployment, and that the so-called guarantees of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were finding no traction. The guarantees are hollow and the people have decided to remove them from power.
GORAKHPUR BJP national president JP Nadda on Friday launched a scathing attack on the INDIA bloc, alleging that the ghamandia (arrogant) alliance was against the Dalits, tribals and backwards because it wanted to rob the reservation of these sections and appease Muslims. BJP national president JP Nadda addresses a public meeting for Lok Sabha elections, in Kushinagar district, Friday. (PTI Photo)

The BJP chief also alleged that the arrogant alliance was anti-Sanatan and anti-national.

He raised questions over Congress leader Rahul Gandhis understanding of the Indian Constitution. He talks about the Indian Constitution in election rallies but has not tried to understand the spirit of Constitution, Nadda said addressing an election rally organised in Kushinagar in support of local BJP candidate and sitting MP Vijay Dubey.

The BJP chief appealed to the people to vote in favour of the BJP and claimed that if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister for the third time, India would become the third-largest economy. Nadda said the BJP was committed to defend reservations norms and would not allow any bid of robbery in reservation quota to appease any community.

Nadda slammed the opposition for promoting their families in politics and stated while Lalu Yadav, Sharad Pawar, Stalin and Akhilesh Yadav were concerned about establishing their next generation in politics, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath wanted to uplift living standards of 140 crore people.

He promised people that their electricity bills would be waived after the Modi government comes to power and urged them to vote for the BJP for construction of another 3 crore pucca houses under the PM Awas Yojana and health cover of 5 lakh to every citizen above 70 years of age.

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath also addressed the election meeting and recalled the days when ration mafia were enjoying grains meant for the poor and Musahar community who were facing starvation-like situation.

Adityanath said his government provided free ration to the poor of Kushinagar apart from providing them houses under PM housing scheme and allocating land. Former union minister and Rajya Sabha member RPN Singh also urged people to vote for Yogi and Modi for a vibrant India.
A 24-year-old nurse was found dead in the bathroom of a hotel room in Shahjahanpur district on Thursday evening, senior police officials said on Friday. For representation only (HT File Photo)

Meanwhile her family alleged that she was raped and then strangled.

Police said the prime suspect is the boyfriend of the nurse, who booked the hotel room along with her, and had left the hotel informing the hotel staff to return with food.

Shahjahanpur superintendent of police (SP), Ashok Kumar Meena, said the deceased was identified as Nancy Singh, a resident of Ganesh Ganj locality, under the Pooranpur police station limits of Pilibhit. She had been working here in a private hospital as nurse for the past six months.

As per identity proof submitted with the hotel staff, she along with one Shubham Shukla, a resident of Pooranpur, Pilibhit, visited the room at around 4.30 pm on Thursday. The hotel staff informed that the youth left the hotel around an hour later stating that he was coming back with some food but never returned, he said while narrating the sequence of events.

He said the hotel staff got suspicious when the youth did not return even after two hours after which the room was checked, and the body was discovered lying in the bathroom.

Another police official said the spot examination shows no struggle marks which hinted that the youth would have come with a pre-planned manner to murder the woman and strangled her to death when she was sitting in a relaxed manner. He said the scarf around the womans neck and strangulation marks confirms that she has been strangled. However, the body has been sent for a post-mortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death.

He said marks showing something heavy being dragged across the room suggested that the man had dragged the womans body into the bathroom to conceal the crime and then left.

Based on the complaint, we have lodged a case of murder (302 IPC) and rape (376 IPC) against Shukla, he said.

The SP further said that CCTV cameras of the hotel were not in operation but still the police have sealed the digital video recording of the hotel and constituted three teams to search for the suspect.
Mumbai, The Bombay High Court on Friday permitted the sale of liquor in Mumbai after the announcement of Lok Sabha poll results on June 4. A vacation bench of Justices N R Borkar and Somasekhar Sundaresan said the ban imposed by the city Collector on sale of liquor by hotels, restaurants, bars and permit rooms shall cease to have an effect upon declaration of results of elections in the city of Mumbai. Additional government pleader Jyoti Chavan informed the bench that the Collector for Mumbai district suburban has already issued a letter modifying the earlier notification declaring June 4 as a dry day. However, no such modification was issued by the Mumbai city collector. The bench then quipped that while people in the city suburbs can drink after declaration of results those in the city cannot. "Let's work it out. There has to be some parity," the high court said. The court was hearing petitions filed by the Indian Hotel and Restaurant Association challenging the orders passed by the Collectors of the Mumbai city and Mumbai district suburban declaring the whole day of June 4 as a dry day. The pleas said that the sale of liquor should be permitted once election results are declared. As per the pleas, the petitioner association had in April approached the Mumbai city collector and the Mumbai district suburban collector requesting them to review their decision declaring the whole day of June 4 as a dry day. However, the collectors said no such review could be done as the orders were passed pursuant to directives from the Election Commission of India . The petitions claimed that the association members pay huge amounts as license fees to the state government for carrying on business, whereas there are several illicit liquor manufacturers and bootleggers who have been manufacturing and selling illicit liquor as well as Indian Made Foreign Liquor and beer in Mumbai. Whenever the authorised outlets for sale of liquor are closed for various reasons, such illegal businesses thrive and bootleggers make huge profits through the illegal and illicit sale of liquor, taking undue advantage of the fact that liquor is not officially available. The pleas had sought for the Collectors' orders to be modified to state that the establishments which sell liquor be permitted to open up for business after the declaration of results instead of the whole day.

HT Image
Around 1.5 crore voters in eight constituencies of Bihar will choose from 86 candidates on Friday in the sixth and second-to-last phase of the general elections. Out of the 1.49 crore voters casting their votes on Friday, 71.08 lakh are women. (Bloomberg/File)

The areas voting in Bihar are Valmiki Nagar, West Champaran, East Champaran, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Maharajganj, and Vaishali. This phase finishes voting for all areas in Bihar north of the Ganges River.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party, Janta Dal (United), is running in four of these constituencies, including Sheohar, which was won by the BJP five years ago.

Major constituencies and candidates

In Sheohar, the main competition is between Lovely Anand from JD(U), who hopes to win support from upper-caste Rajputs due to her family's popularity, and Ritu Jaiswal from Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Jaiswal appeals to Vaishyas who are unhappy that the BJP did not choose the current MP Rama Devi, who has won the seat several times before.

In Siwan, the race has become complicated for JD(U) and RJD because Hina Shahab, whose late husband Mohd Shahabuddin won the seat several times, is running as an Independent. To avoid seeming too supportive of upper castes and to strengthen its OBC support, JD(U) did not give the ticket to the current MP, Kavita Singh, and instead chose newcomer Vijaylakshmi Kushwaha.

Moreover, RJD candidate Awadh Bihari Chaudhary is an experienced leader, having served multiple terms as an MLA and is a former assembly Speaker.

In Valmiki Nagar, JD(U) trusts sitting MP Sunil Kumar, who first won in a 2020 by-election after his father, Baidyanath Mahto, passed away. His main opponent is RJD's Deepak Yadav, who recently left the BJP. His candidacy is seen as an effort to disrupt the usual caste-based voting patterns in the area.

In Gopalganj, a reserved seat, JD(U) is supporting its current MP, Alok Suman. He faces competition from local businessman Premnath Chanchal of the Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP). Chanchal relies on support from the RJD, with which his new party has allied for the general elections.

The BJP is contesting three of the eight seats in this phase, including Pashchim Champaran, where former state president Sanjay Jaiswal is aiming for his fourth consecutive win. His main opponent is Madan Mohan Tiwari of the Congress, a former MLA from Bettiah.

In Purbi Champaran, Radha Mohan Singh, a long-time MP and former Union minister, got a ticket due to his close relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite the party usually preferring candidates under 75. His main opponent is Rajesh Kushwaha from the VIP party, who used to be with RJD. Kushwaha's candidacy is seen as an effort to unite OBC voters against Singh, an upper-caste Rajput.

In Maharajganj, the BJP is supporting sitting MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal, who is aiming for his third win. His main challenger is Akash Prasad Singh of the Congress. Akash's father, Akhilesh Prasad Singh, is a Rajya Sabha MP and the head of the party's state unit. The Congress chose Akash, a Bhumihar, to appeal to this powerful upper-caste group, which has a long-standing rivalry with the Rajputs.

In Vaishali, the rivalry between Rajputs and Bhumihars is significant. Veena Devi, who is trying to keep her seat, faces a tough challenge from RJD's Vijay Kumar Shukla. Veena Devi won in 2019 as an LJP candidate and is the only MP Chirag Paswan considered for a ticket, despite her support for his uncle Pashupati Kumar Paras during the party split. Shukla, a local strongman and former MLA, has previously been with both LJP and JD(U). His candidacy is seen as another RJD strategy to disrupt the NDA's voter base.

Bihar voter dynamics

Out of the 1.49 crore voters casting their votes on Friday, 71.08 lakh are women. Gopalganj has the most voters, 20.24 lakh, while Pashchim Champaran has the fewest, 17.56 lakh.

Over 33 lakh voters are under 30 years old, with 2.12 lakh of them aged 18-19.

The constituencies voting are mostly rural, shown by the fact that only 1,281 out of 14,872 polling stations are in urban areas.
In a move that could worry the ruling alliance in Bihar amid the ongoing parliamentary elections, the Patna University Teachers Association (PUTA) and the employees union have threatened to launch an indefinite strike from Friday over the department of educations latest order to pay salary and pension directly into the accounts of the employees, which the teachers body describes as violation of the Act governing the university. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar at a public meeting in Jehanabad. (HT photo)

Employees in other universities are also planning agitation, terming the departments action an attempt to erode the autonomy of the institutions.

PU employees union has already announced to go on mass casual leave (CL) on May 25, followed by agitation in front of the vice chancellors office on June 6-8 and complete closure of all institutions from June 10 if their grievances were still not addressed.

The decision on agitation was taken after the PU registrar sought details of teachers and employees from all the colleges, as sought by the education department.

When the Patna High Court has set a deadline for clearing the backlog of and salary pension, the education department is suddenly trying to introduce a new system just to hoodwink the court. The government is maintaining silence, which shows its support to such decisions. The government should review how many decisions it took in the last 15 years and how many times it had to backtrack. Even the move to start direct payment through treasury initiatives 14 years ago was a failure, said Federation of University Teachers Association of Bihar (FUTAB) leaders KB Sinha and Sanjay Kumar, an MLC, in a joint statement.

On May 17, the Patna High Court had ordered the education department to clear the backlog salary and pension to teachers and employees of universities within 10 days, after putting its freeze order in abeyance. So far, however, thousands of pensioners and employees are still awaiting payment.

Though the education department and state universities have been feuding for months over various issues, often prompting interventions by the Governor in his capacity as the Chancellor of state universities, the latest flare-up amid the ongoing parliamentary elections drew swift response from political parties.

After the elections, all the outstanding issues will be resolved amicably. No officer can do whatever one wants at the cost of teachers and education. No officer should consider himself above the government. BJP has fought the cause of teachers from the roads to the Vidhan Sabha, deputy chief minister and BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha said, in an apparent reference to additional chief secretary (education) K K Pathak, the controversial IAS officer who has ruffled many feathers with his decrees relating to functioning of universities and schools in the state.

To be sure, problems in school and higher education in Bihar abound  be it the issue concerning school timings or recruitment of teachers from outside state, non-payment of salary to guest teachers for nearly a year, the confrontation between the Raj Bhawan and the education department over disruption in salary and pension payment for over four months.

For instance, schools in Bihar opened after summer vacation on May 16 in the morning shift from 6 am to 12 noon, but the teachers were asked to remain in schools till 1.30 pm to take remedial classes for students and for other works. The teachers have been asked to report to schools by 5.45 am, failing which action would be taken against them. This has also caused a lot of resentment among teachers, who cite inconvenience in the rural areas, especially women.

Last week, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also intervened, directing the chief secretary to extend the summer vacation in schools till June first week in view of continuing heat wave in the state, as there were reports of adverse impact on the students, teachers as well as parents due to opening of schools.

Sensing the hostile mood of lakhs of teachers, BJP has been doing firefighting to limit the potential of damage, but it remains to be seen how and who the turmoil in the education sector would impact.

JD-U has also taken note. Spokesman Abhishek Jha said, If the timing of the schools is an issue, the government will take it up sensitively and take timely action.

RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, however, said the government was deliberately trying to harass the teachers by taking impractical decisions. The government is clueless how its department is working and doing nothing to stem the rot, he said.

Congress spokesman Rajesh Rathor said chief minister Nitish Kunar started looking at teachers as his adversaries since the 2020 election debacle and all the autocratic orders of the education department reflected the government mindset. The teachers are being tormented every day with one whimsical order after another and the government is quiet, he said.

Professor NK Choudhary, a political observer, said the way education department was functioning and the kind of resentment it had triggered across schools and colleges would not go down well with the government, especially in elections. Even common sense says that tough or controversial decisions are put on hold during election time, but here even salary and pension is held up for months. This is strange to say the least and why the government is quiet over it is beyond comprehension. If there is politics in it, it is sad. In Bihar, higher education has already suffered enough. It will certainly have its impact during election, he said.
San Francisco police arrested a person suspected of stabbing a woman after she got into her car in Potrero Hill. Katrina Brown/TNS

In the early morning hours of May 12, a woman had just returned to her car in Potrero Hill and was sitting in the drivers seat when she noticed someone emerge from inside the vehicle.

The suspect, according to police, attacked the woman, prompting a struggle between the two before the assailant fled the scene. It was only after the woman was alone that she realized she had been stabbed. The woman was taken to the hospital, where she was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

The eerie incident came a day after the same victim was attacked at a nearby business by the same woman, identified by police as 26-year-old Ariana Blea.

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San Francisco police on Wednesday arrested Blea on suspicion of charges including attempted murder, felony assault and stalking. As of Tuesday afternoon, Blea was being held at the county jail in downtown San Francisco.

The victim, who was not identified, told police she knew Blea, and that she was first attacked by the San Francisco woman at about 10 p.m. on May 11. During this alleged incident, police said Blea approached the victim and knocked her off her chair, pulling her to the ground.

San Francisco officers on patrol were flagged down to the business on reports of a fight, but the suspect had fled before their arrival, police said.

Police did not disclose the nature of the womens relationship or any potential motives for the attack. It is unclear whether Blea has been assigned an attorney, and officials with the San Francisco Public Defenders Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
A special court in Pune on Friday sent all 6 accused, including the father of the 17-year-old minor who crashed a Porsche into a motorbike killing two software engineers in Kalyani Nagar on Sunday, to judicial custody until June 7. The Porsche car found without number plate, in Pune (PTI)

Builder Vishal Agarwal, the father of the minor who was allegedly driving the car, has said that he has not committed any offence and is being falsely implicated, News18 reported.

Advocate Asim Saraode said to ANI, This is not a very difficult case according to the point of view of the law. There are some emotions and human rights violations involved... The police claim they need to investigate the DCR and the driver needs to be investigated because he has been arrested today. Other reasons were not new so the court has not considered the request and sent the accused to the magisterial custody remand till June 7.

The Agarwals are a well-known real estate developer family in Pune, operating under the name Bramha for the past 40 years. Vishal Agarwal and his wife, Shivani Agarwal, are working on a residential project called Bramha Skycity Phase-3, which is set to be completed by April 2026. Vishal, Shivani, and Vishal's father, Shivkumar Agarwal, are involved in at least three real estate companies, as disclosed to the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA).

Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta, both 24-year-old IT professionals from Madhya Pradesh, died on May 19 when the speeding Porsche, allegedly driven by Vishal's son, hit their motorcycle. Ashwini was from Jabalpur, and Anish was from Birsinghpur Pali in Umaria district. The two were returning from a get-together along with other friends when the incident happened.

Vishal is charged under two sections of the Juvenile Justice Act for "failing to carry out his duties as a guardian" and is also charged under the Motor Vehicles Act.

Who was driving the car?



Earlier on Friday, the Pune Police chief said that there was an attempt to tamper with evidence to show that the Porsche was driven by a family driver instead of the 17-year-old who is currently in custody.

Pune police said this week that Vishal asked the driver to let his son drive the Porsche Taycan whenever he demanded.

However, Vishal's lawyer claimed that he gave the car to the driver, not his son. As per a police statement, the driver called Vishal informing him that his son was insisting on driving the car. They added that he asked the driver to sit in the adjacent seat and let the minor drive the car.

Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said on Friday, We have the CCTV footage of him (juvenile) drinking liquor in the pub. The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report as we have other evidence also. He (juvenile) was fully in his senses. He had full knowledge that due to his conduct, such an accident, where section 304 is applicable, can happen.
Pune, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Friday said there was an attempt to tamper with the evidence in the Porsche case to show that the 17-year-old who crashed his Porsche car into a motorbike killing two persons was not at the wheel and an adult was driving it. There were attempts to make it appear as if the adult driver was driving the car, but that bid was foiled, Kumar told reporters. We have the CCTV footage of him drinking liquor in the pub. The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report as we have other evidence also, the officer said. "He was fully in his senses, He had full knowledge that due to his conduct, such an accident, where section 304 is applicable, can happen, Kumar said. On the allegations of preferential treatment given to the juvenile, Kumar said an ACP rank officer is investigating the claim. On reports of the juvenile being served pizza after the incident, Kumar said, We have clearly said that a pizza party didn't happen in the police station. But yes, something had happened on which we have initiated an internal investigation. "We are trying to make this a water tight case. We have already filed a case against the father of accused and the bar owners. The technical analysis of the evidences is underway," he said. He said an internal inquiry has pointed to lapses on the part of some cops while registering the case and action will be taken against them for destruction of evidence. During our investigation, it has clearly emerged that the juvenile was driving the car and we have already collected all the necessary chronological evidence. For example, when the juvenile left the house, the entry on the security register shows that he left with the car, he said. On the basis of technical and CCTV evidence, it is confirmed that the car was being driven by the juvenile, the police chief said. Eyewitnesses have also corroborated that the teenager, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, was driving the Porsche at the time of the accident, he said. Kumar said attempts were made to show that an adult, the family driver, was at the wheel and not the teen when the vehicle fatally knocked down two persons in Punes Kalyani Nagar area around 3 am on Sunday. We are investigating these things and will take action against those who made such attempts, under section 201 of the IPC, he said. Asked about blood samples, Kumar said the juvenile was sent to Sassoon Hospital around 9 am on Sunday after an offence was registered. There was a delay in taking blood samples as they were collected at 11 pm but the blood report is not the pillar of our case, he said. He said the case has been registered under IPC section 304 and that the juvenile was fully aware that driving in an inebriated state would lead to this kind of offence and peoples lives would be lost. As a pre-emptive measure, extra blood samples were collected for testing at another lab to ensure that both samples and DNA reports were of the same person. We have not received the blood reports but the process is being expedited, he said. In the initial FIR, section 304 A was applied but it was revised with section 304 the same day as the crime warranted that section, he said. An ACP-level officer is being entrusted with the probe to ascertain if there was any attempt to tamper with or destroy evidence. He also said special counsels will be appointed to aggressively put forth the police side in court. Kumar responded to complaints about lapses and allegations that some cops were managed, saying the police have taken a stringent approach from the beginning. So it is not correct to say there was pressure on police or dereliction on the part of cops. But a probe is underway to find out why section 304 was not added in the first place, he said. There are complaints that some eyewitnesses were pressured, he said. If such things come to the fore, strict action will be taken against the police officer concerned, he added. After the accident, the minor was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board which granted him bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay. Following an outcry over quick bail and the police's review plea, the Board on Wednesday remanded the teen, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, to the observation home till June 5. The police have also arrested the teenagers father. Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar staged a protest outside the Police Commissioners office on Thursday seeking Amitesh Kumar's resignation, claiming that the Porsche incident has maligned Punes image. Following the Porsche crash, the excise department launched a crackdown on bars and pubs in Pune. So far, 32 establishments have been sealed by officials. This has sparked a protest by these establishments' owners and staff. On Friday morning, hundreds gathered in protest, claiming that the excise department's action has rendered 60,000 people jobless.

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As generative AI (GenAI) technologies continue to expand their reach, their influence is becoming increasingly evident across a spectrum of industries, including education. This ongoing transformation is fundamentally reshaping the education landscape, with GenAI being harnessed for adaptive learning solutions, personalized educational tools, and streamlined processes. While there is considerable promise for enhanced learning outcomes with integration of generative AI, including improved teacher instruction and well-being, and greater equity within the educational system, there are also risks to be navigated. (Representative image)

This technological progression mirrors the shifting preferences of contemporary learners, who are progressively embracing digital experiences as part of a broader movement towards lifelong learning and alternative educational pathways. In light of these developments, EdTech firms, content providers, and educational institutions stand poised to leverage innovative technical solutions to cater to the burgeoning demand for diverse learning modalities.

However, the integration of generative AI in education is not without its challenges and considerations. While there is considerable promise for enhanced learning outcomes, improved teacher instruction and well-being, and greater equity within the educational system, there are also risks to be navigated.

Also read: TBSE Results 2024: Tripura Board Class 10, 12 scores declared, direct link to check marks here

These include potential privacy breaches, disparities in disciplinary actions, and suboptimal utilization of AI tools in educational contexts. Therefore, it is imperative to confront these multifaceted challenges head-on and carefully deliberate the ethical implications associated with the deployment of generative AI in education.

Ethical Guidelines for Integrating Generative AI in Education

Outlined below are practical principles that educators, policymakers, and education leaders can consider as they devise strategies to facilitate the ethical and effective integration of AI in education:

Leveraging the Power of Generative AI to Enhance Education

AI should be utilized with a targeted approach to enrich the educational experience, placing a strong emphasis on the welfare of students and educators alike. It should be strategically deployed to advance academic objectives and streamline administrative processes while promoting inclusivity, and equity, and bridging the digital divide. Generative AI initiatives should align with the overarching educational vision, catering to the diverse needs and backgrounds of learners.

Also read: COMEDK UGET Result 2024 declared at comedk.org, direct link to check rank card here

Adherence to Current Policies in Generative AI Implementation

integration of generative AI in education must adhere to essential aspects of technology policy, encompassing privacy, data security, student safety, and data ownership. It is imperative to verify that AI utilization complies with prevailing regulations and ethical standards, with particular emphasis on safeguarding student privacy and ensuring data security.

Foster a Deeper Understanding of Generative AI

a comprehensive grasp of generative AI involves equipping both students and teachers with in-depth knowledge about its functionalities, constraints, ramifications, and ethical considerations. It is essential to empower them with the necessary competencies to engage responsibly with AI technologies, spanning disciplines such as computer science, psychology, ethics, data science, and more.

Also read: MBOSE Results 2024: Garo Hills schools secure top slots in SSLC and HSSLC (Arts) 2024 results of Meghalaya Board

Recognizing AI's Benefits and Addressing Its Risks

the potential benefits AI offers to education, it's crucial to acknowledge and manage its associated risks effectively. Education systems should offer guidance on the responsible use of AI, ensuring alignment with community objectives such as enhancing student and teacher well-being and improving learning outcomes. Additionally, integrating AI education into the school curriculum can empower students to understand its strengths and weaknesses, fostering responsible technology use from an early age. This proactive approach equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate AI technologies responsibly and ethically.

Promote Academic Integrity

AI in academic practices brings forth both challenges and opportunities in upholding academic integrity. It is crucial to address the risks of plagiarism while harnessing AI to reinforce fundamental values such as trust, honesty, respect, fairness, and responsibility. While AI tools can assist in cross-referencing information, it is vital to recognize their limitations to preserve the integrity of authentic creation.

play a pivotal role in this endeavor by providing clear guidelines on the appropriate use of AI in assignments. Here are three levels of AI utilization that can be tailored based on the assignment's nature:

Permissive: Students are permitted to freely utilize AI tools to support their assignments, including tasks like proofreading, idea generation, or content organization.

Moderate: Students may employ AI tools for specific elements of their assignments, such as initial research or brainstorming. However, the primary content and concluding remarks should be original and independently crafted.

Restrictive: AI tools are prohibited for the assignment, and students are required to generate all work entirely on their own, without any AI assistance.

Promote Human Involvement in AI Decision-Making Processes

AI-assisted decision-making processes, it's vital to incorporate mechanisms for human intervention and approval. AI should act as a complement, enhancing the tasks of educators and administrators rather than entirely replacing them. This approach ensures that human judgment and expertise remain integral, fostering accountability, addressing potential biases, and upholding ethical standards in educational decision-making.

Continuously Assess the Impact of AI Integration

crucial to conduct regular evaluations of generative AI implementation to verify its alignment with educational goals and evolving legal standards. Seek input from various stakeholders, including educators, the EdTech industry, policymakers, parents, and students, to gather insights for ongoing enhancements and adjustments to AI policies and practices. This proactive approach enables informed decision-making and ensures that AI usage remains beneficial and ethically sound in educational settings.

Concluding Thoughts

Incorporating these generative AI principles organization-wide is essential to uphold the long-term safety, trustworthiness, and effectiveness of AI-powered EdTech initiatives. Responsible integration of AI into education has the potential to significantly enhance solutions and products, equipping learners with the skills needed to excel in an evolving digital landscape.

(Monica Malhotra Kandhari is the Managing Director and AASOKA & MBD Group. The views expressed are personal.)
On May 14, 2024, the United Kingdoms (UK) Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) published its rapid review of the Graduate Route Visa (GRV). The MAC has suggested that GRV should be continued in its current form. However, if the policy is amended to align with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks call to restrict visas to only the best and the brightest and curb the influx of international students to the country, Indians, who make up the largest market for UK study visas, will be greatly impacted. With the number of Indian students pursuing higher education in UK expected to rise to 170,000 by 2025, any policy amendment will have direct impact on the number of Indian students choosing the UK as their study abroad destination.(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

With the number of Indian students pursuing higher education in UK expected to rise to 170,000 by 2025 (Source: Indian Student Mobility report 2023-24), any policy amendment will have direct impact on the number of Indian students choosing the UK as their study abroad destination.

The GRV acquires greater importance because according to National Indian Students and Alumni Association (NISAU) UK, 70% of Indian students consider the ability to gain work experience crucial when choosing an international study destination.

Experts decode the GRV, MACs recommendations and the ramifications of the recent immigration policy changes including ban on bringing along dependents as well as the hike in salary threshold for graduate sponsorship as well as Skilled Worker Visa.

What is a Graduate Route Visa (GRV)? Introduced by the UK government in 2021, GRV gives students permission to stay in the UK for at least two years after successfully completing a course in the UK - a UK bachelors degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period of time with the Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa.

A Graduate visa lasts for two years but for those with a Ph.D or other doctoral qualification, it will last for three years. A Graduate Visa cannot be extended but the individual can switch to a Skilled Worker visa.

Whats on the anvil? MACs key recommendations

 The Graduate route has achieved the government's objectives and should be continued in its current form.

 Mandatory requirements for universities and improved disclosure of agent use, including a new mandatory registration system, should be considered to protect the integrity of the UK Higher Education system.

 Introduce a requirement for universities to provide confirmation of the course outcome (i.e. class of degree), in addition to the existing requirement to demonstrate that the course was completed successfully when applying for a Graduate visa.

 The government should prioritise the overall impact of policy changes rather than focussing on net migration effects.

How will MAC recommendations impact Indians and Indian students?: The recent MAC recommendation to keep the Graduate Route visa untouched and intact is a welcome sign for Indian students who were anxiously awaiting clarity. Indian students aspiring for higher education in UK, who were hesitant till date can now pay their deposits and move forward confidently, secure admissions, book accommodations in time and plan their travel accordingly. Any changes to the immigration policy will not impact current students or those commencing their studies in the upcoming September-October intake, says Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO, University Living.

How expensive is education in the UK? While basic academic costs range from 10,000 to 38,000 per year for undergraduates and 11,000 to 32,000 for postgraduates, and additional expenses for housing, food, and travel can average between 9,000 and 12,000 annually, making the total annual costs potentially exceed 30,000. The opportunities gained through international work experience and the long-term benefits of a UK education can offset these costs, ultimately enhancing career prospects, says Manisha Zaveri, Joint Managing Director, Career Mosaic.

Sachin Jain, Country Manager, ETS India and South Asia, believes that the latest MAC report is data-backed and with the UKs unchanged policy offering work opportunities after graduation, the country will continue to attract international students.

Impact of increase in salary threshold amendment of April 2024: The median monthly income for an individual working on the Graduate route is 750, or 21,000 annually. However, after the April 2024 shake-up of immigration policy, the minimum graduate salary for sponsorship has been increased from 20,960 to at least 30,960 per annum while Skilled Worker visa route minimum salary threshold has increased from 26,200 to 38,700 gross per annum. Those on a Graduate visa benefit from a new entrant discount, but this only lasts for four years and includes time already spent on a Graduate visa. Consequently, some employers have already been reviewing their graduate intake policies and approach to sponsorship impacting countless recent graduates, including Indians.

Is the 2024 No-dependent policy a huge deterrent?: It maybe recalled that in January this year, the UK had announced a no-dependent policy under which international students studying in the UK will no longer be able to bring dependents with them on their UK student visa, aside from those on research postgraduate programmes.

Is it worth sending students to the UK? Answering a question about recent immigration policy changes, Lord Karan Bilimoria, Member, UKs House of Lords, and Chancellor of University of Birmingham, said: The current governments anti-immigration and anti-international student rhetoric is so damaging; not only is it causing concern and worry amongst prospective students to the UK, it is hugely damaging to the whole university sector. For example, the removal of the dependents visa for all students except Ph.D students is really going to affect attracting the best students. In UKs business schools, nearly 25% of the students bring dependents. Those students are not going to come to the UK if they need to bring their dependents. Thankfully, the fear that the two-year GRV will be changed, restricted or removed has been allayed.

The government has listened to the MAC recommendation of keeping the GRV intact and international students will choose to come to the UK which has some of the worlds best universities, added Lord Bilimoria, who is also the Chancellor of the University of Birmingham.
The Tripura Board of Secondary Education ( TBSE) on Friday declared results of both Class 10 and 12 that recorded 87.54% and 79. 27% pass respectively. TBSE Class 10, 12 results live updates TBSE Results 2024: 87.54% pass Tripura board Class 10, 79.27% pass 12th this year. (HT file image)

A total of 33739 Class 10 students including 17952 females and 25,350 students of Class 12 including females appeared for the board examinations this year.

Last year, the pass percentage of Class 10 and Class 12 were 86.02% and 83.24% respectively.

" After the declaration of CBSE results on May 13, we were unhappy as the results were not up to our expectations. We thought that this result would impact TBSE results as 125 first-rank schools went to CBSE. But we are happy to announce that the pass percentage of Class 10 has hiked by one percent this year than the previous year", said TBSE board president Dr Dhananjoy Ganchoudhury after the announcement of the board results.

Also read: TBSE Results 2024: Overall 87.54% pass percentage recorded in Tripura board Class 10 examinations, details here

The Class 12 or higher secondary examinations started on March 1 and continued till March 30 while the Class 10 examinations began on March 2 and continued till March 23.

Of the total Class 12 candidates, 2976 appeared from the Science stream of whom 2937 passed, 21693 appeared from Humanities, and 16578 passed while 610 appeared from the Commerce stream of whom 510 passed the exams.

In the case of Madrassa Alim, a total of 130 candidates appeared of whom 99 qualified for the exams. In the case of Madrassa Fazil Arts, a total of 22 candidates passed while 48 out of a total of 49 candidates who appeared in Madrassa Fazil Theology passed the examinations.

The TBSE set up a total of 69 centers and 144 venues for Class 10 board exams and another 60 centers and 98 venues for Class 12 exams this year.

Nearly 25,000 teachers were involved in evaluating Class 10 and 12 board answer scripts that were done from April 24 till May 12.

Also read: TBSE Results 2024: Tripura Board Class 10, 12 scores declared, direct link to check marks here

A total of 39 schools recorded 100 percent passes and another 13 schools recorded 100 percent failure in Class 12 and in the case of Class 10, a total of 310 schools recorded 100 percent passes while students from a total of 16 schools failed to pass the exams.

In 2023, a total of 43,730 candidates appeared for Class 10 board exams and a total of 38,125 sat for Class 12 board exams.

In 2022, the overall pass percentage of Class 10 was 86 percent and for Class 12, it was 94.46 percent.

The pass percentage of Class 12 in 2023 was less by 11% compared to 2022.

In Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council ( TTAADC), 85.01% pass was recorded in Class 10 while in Class 12, the pass percentage was 70.57%.

TBSE secretary Dr. Dulal Dey stated that they would announce the schedule of submitting review forms for the students who are not satisfied with their scored numbers in any subject.

" Generally, the review forms are required to be submitted within five days of releasing marksheets. However, we shall announce the schedule after releasing the mark sheets", said Dey.

When asked about several students who wrote the Kokborok paper in Roman script, the TBSE chief said that they don't have the figure with them yet.

The students could get to know their results from www.tbse.tripura.gov.in, www.tbresults.tripura.gov.in, and others.
Actor Aditi Rao Hydari has reacted after costume designer Rick Roy praised her outfit for the 77th Cannes Film Festival. However, Rick, in a dig at other Indian celebrities who attended the event, said that "at least someone from India is making us fashionably proud". (Also Read | Aditi Rao Hydari wears a black and white outfit on Cannes Film Festival red carpet, fans say Audrey Hepburn vibes) Aditi Rao Hydari walked the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival on Thursday.

Aditi reacts to comment on her Cannes dress

Taking to Instagram Stories, Rick shared a post featuring Aditi in her black and white gown at the Cannes red carpet. He wrote, "Teaching them children how it is done on the red carpet. Ooofff, at least someone from India making us fashionably proud. @aditiraohydari just killing it." Re-sharing it on her Instagram, Aditi added several red heart emojis.

Re-sharing it on her Instagram, Aditi added several red heart emojis.

Aditi stuns in black and white outfit at Cannes

On Thursday, Aditi walked the red carpet in a stunning black and white outfit. She tied her hair in a neat bun and kept her makeup simple. The actor also attended the screening of L'Amour Ouf (Beating Hearts), directed by Gilles Lellouche, on Thursday. Aditi represented cosmetics giant L'Oreal at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. She shared her photos on Instagram and wrote, "La vie est belle (white heart emoji)." Her fiance-actor Siddharth wrote, "Incredible."

Aditi's Cannes looks so far

Aditi's second look from Cannes 2024 was equally mesmerising. In the images and videos posted online, she was seen walking on the streets of the French Riviera in a floral black gown. Her sleeveless ensemble, which comes in shades of yellow, black, and green, features a halter neckline. Siddharth commented, "Oh, Wow!"

Aditi recent project

Aditi is being lauded for her role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. The series also features Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Sharmin Segal, Taha Shah Badussha, Shekhar Suman, and Adhyayan Suman.
Heading to the big screen

After getting positive response at the film festival, Film Heritage Foundation and the Gujarat Co-Operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. have collaborated with PVR-INOX Ltd. and Cinepolis India to release the restored classic in 50 cities and 100 cinemas across India on June 1 and June 2.

The restored version will be releasing in Ahmedabad, Ambala, Amritsar, Anand, Bengaluru, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Comibatore, Dehradun and Delhi.

Other cities included are: Dharwad, Gandhinagar, Gurugram, Guwahati, Gwalior, Hubli, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jamnagar, Jamshedpur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kota, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Mohali, Mumbai and Noida among others.

The restored version of the 1976 movie, inspired by the groundbreaking milk cooperative movement by Dr Verghese Kurien that transformed India into one of the largest milk producers in the world, was showcased under the Cannes Classics segment last week.

Naseeruddin Shah along with wife Ratna Pathak Shah, late co-star Smita Patil's son Prateik Babbar, Dr Kurien's daughter Nirmala Kurien, and Amul MD Jayen Mehta attended the screening. Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, founder of Film Heritage Foundation, the not-for-profit organisation behind the restored print, also attended the film's screening.

Manthan team ecstatic

The films director Shyam Benegal shares that he was very pleased to hear about the fantastic response to the restoration version at the Cannes Film Festival.

But I am even more delighted that the restored film will be released in cinemas across the country. Manthan will be the first restoration of one of my films that will have a theatrical release. When Manthan released in 1976, it was a great success as the farmers themselves came to see the film in droves, travelling in bullock carts from small towns and villages. I hope that 48 years later when the restored film comes back to the big screen this June, people across India will come to the cinema to watch the film, Shyam said in a statement.

To this, Naseeruddin adds, Watching the restored Manthan at its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival was a very emotional experience for me. I was overwhelmed by memories from almost fifty years ago when cinema was a vehicle of change and moved to tears by the standing ovation at the end, which was not just for myself but for the film which has more than stood the test of time and also for the beauty of the restoration. I am delighted that the film is to be released in cinemas across India and I hope that people will not lose the opportunity to watch a beautiful restoration of a historic film on the big screen. I will be going to the theatre myself to watch the film again.

According to Dungarpur, it was imperative that the restored film be shown back on the big screen to reach the widest audience possible. I am so pleased that audiences across the country in cities ranging from the big metros like Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai to smaller cities like Dharwad, Kakinada, Nadiad, Bhatinda, Panipat and Kozhikode will have the opportunity to watch the beautifully restored film, he added.

About Manthan

The film is a fictionalised version of the beginnings of the extraordinary dairy cooperative movement that transformed India from a milk-deficient nation to the worlds largest milk producer inspired by Dr. Verghese Kurien.

The film is co-written by Shyam and celebrated playwright Vijay Tendulkar. The Gujarat-set Manthan was the first crowd-funded Indian film which was entirely crowdfunded by 500,000 farmers who donated 2 each. The film won two National Film Awards in 1977. It was also Indias official entry to the 1976 Academy Awards in the best foreign language film category.

It also features Girish Karnad, Dr. Mohan Agashe, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Anant Nag and Abha Dhulia.
International praise has poured in after the historical premiere of Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light, India's first film in 30 years to compete for the Palme d'Or, the highest honour of the Cannes Film Festival. The film went on to win the Grand Prix award at the closing ceremony. Critics from the West have hailed the film as gentle, glowing, and luminous. (Also Read  Cannes 2024: Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light makes history; gets eight minute standing ovation) All We Imagine is contending for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Few films have ever so beautifully captured the lonesome romance of Mumbai after dark.

A mood of romantic and emotional insecurity hangs over these womens lives, made more nerve-janglingly unhappy and soap-operatic for unfolding in the big city where there are so many people but you are effectively alone.

Its story of women looking for love and happiness in a calamitous world brings to mind those popular Mumbai-set movies, in which heroines suffer plenty of heartbreak before things eventually work out.

"The beats of All We Imagine as Light are calibrated with hypnotic grace creating a rhythm that induces pure pleasure. No mystery of the human heart will reveal itself until the scene that naturalistically brings it to the surface."

About the film

All We Imagine as Light, a Malayalam-Hindi feature, is about Prabha, a nurse, who receives an unexpected gift from her long estranged husband that throws her life into disarray. Her younger roommate, Anu, tries in vain to find a private spot in the big city to be alone with her boyfriend. One day, the two nurses go on a road trip to a beach town where the mystical forest becomes a space for their dreams to manifest, according to the plotline.

An alumna of the Film & Television Institute of India (FTII), Payal Kapadia is best known for her acclaimed documentary A Night of Knowing Nothing, which premiered at the 2021 Cannes Film Festivals Directors Fortnight side-bar where it won the Oeil dor (Golden Eye) award. All We Imagine As Light is the first ever film by an Indian female director to be screened in the main competition of the prestigious film gala.
Kangana Ranaut shared a series of Instagram photos with Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his visit to Mandi on Friday. The BJP leader and Lok Sabha election 2024 candidate posed with PM Modi on stage at a rally in the Himachal Pradesh constituency. The actor-politician greeted the PM and handed him a red rose in one of the photos. Also read: Kangana Ranaut gifts herself a second Mercedes Maybach worth 2.4 crore after joining politics. Watch Kangana Ranaut with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mandi on Friday. (Instagram/ Kangana Ranaut)

Kangana Ranaut poses with PM Modi

Sharing the pictures, Kangana, who wore a Himachali cap with her peach and cream saree, wrote in the caption, "Pradhanmantri ji Mandi mein aapka swagat hai (Prime Minister, we welcome you to Mandi)."

Kangana's photos showed that locals turned up in huge numbers for the event. A fan commented on the post, "So wonderful." A Kangana fan also wrote, The charm of a mountain lioness...

Kangana lauds Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mandi, Kangana addressed a public meeting, where she expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work under PM Modi's leadership. She also lauded his work towards country's development.

Kangana said, "When Bollywood considered me an outsider and mocked my English. Then, the world's biggest party, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the world's biggest leader, PM Modi, chose me to serve the people of Mandi and work for their welfare. They chose a 'Pahadi Beti (Pahadi daughter)' for this work. This fills us with pride and eminence. I bow in respect before our PM Narendra Modi on behalf of all women and citizens of Himachal."

She added, "The day has arrived to work under the guidance of PM Modi. Hailing PM Modi is like showing a candle to the sun himself. The technical and modern developmental works he has done are tremendous. Now I'm too part of his team and committed to the developmental works for Mandi as a party worker."

While concluding her speech, Kangana expressed her ambition to win the Parliamentarian Award of the Year, saying, "I have won four National Awards based on my capabilities during both BJP and Congress tenures. I assure you, if I win these elections, I will bring the Parliamentarian Award of the Year to the people of Mandi in the very first year."
Actor Deepika Padukone, who made a public appearance during the voting in Mumbai earlier this week, stepped out of her home on Friday. Taking to Instagram Stories, Deepika shared several of her pictures. She also went live on Instagram for a few minutes. (Also Read | Alia Bhatt shows support for Deepika Padukone amid trolling around her baby bump) Pregnant Deepika Padukone visited a store in Mumbai.

Mom-to-be Deepika's latest public appearance

In the pictures, pregnant Deepika gave several poses and smiled as she flaunted a flowy yellow dress. She later shared a brief clip in which she was seen behind a counter inside a store promoting her skincare label, 82E. Deepika joked, "I should be a salesperson." She also took a POS machine and pretended to be a staff of the store.

In the pictures, pregnant Deepika gave several poses and smiled.

Deepika flaunted a flowy yellow dress.

Deepika talks about her skincare

Later, Deepika shared a video in which she talked about the products of her brand 82E. The actor also spoke about her skincare routine. She captioned the post, 82E now at Tira!

Celeb, fans react to Deepika's posts

Reacting to the post, actor Bipasha Basu commented, "Stay blessed, beautiful. Take great care." A fan said, "That mummy wala glow." A comment read, "Looking so so so beautiful, mama." A person wrote, "Beautiful, you look absolutely stunning and gorgeous. Skin is glowing."

Deepika and Ranveer's first child

Deepika is expecting her first child with husband-actor Ranveer Singh in September. On Monday, Deepika and Ranveer stepped out to cast their votes in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. It was the first time she appeared publicly with her baby bump. After that she faced intense trolling, with a section of the social media users even calling her bump fake.

Deepika upcoming films

Deepika will next be seen in Singham Again, the third instalment of Rohit Shetty's cop universe. She stepped into the role of Lady Singham alongside a stellar ensemble cast. Joining her are Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, and Arjun Kapoor.

Fans will also see her in the sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, and Disha Patani. Additionally, she she also has The Intern, along with Amitabh Bachchan.
Summer is the time for sci-fi and action blockbusters, when Hollywood spends, risks and hopes to make the most of its money by catering to a young audience on summer vacation. But its also a time for innovative counterprogramming, with movies trying to find an audience looking for a break from nonstop violence and special effects. Here are the most exciting summer movies that check all the boxes.
Preity's first appearance

A video of Preity gearing up to walk the red carpet surfaced on social media on Friday. In the video, Preity posed for a boomerang, wearing a shimmery pearl white gown. She complemented the look with pearl earrings and hair tied behind her back. She looked elegant as she struck a pose on the riverside.

What's Preity doing at Cannes?

The actor is at the Cannes Film Festival to present the Pierre Angenieux ExcelLens in Cinematography honour to longtime collaborator Santosh Sivan. She did her first film, Mani Ratnam's romantic drama Dil Se (1998), with Santosh as the cinematographer. She's now reunited with him for her first film in seven years, Rajkumar Santoshi's upcoming period drama Lahore 1947.

In an interview with DD India from the Cannes Film Festival, Preity recalled how it was Santosh's genius that made her look good in Dil Se despite Mani Ratnam asking her to sport a no-makeup look. She also recalled how he pampered her during the shoot of the song Jiya Jale. While we were shooting in Kerala, the song had a little light rain. You don't really see the rain, but it was there. So in the four days there, my bones were hurting in the rain, I had fever, I wasn't feeling well. Santosh came and got me rasam and all the food, and said, Why dont you eat this? It's hot.' He was really sweet and took care of me, said Preity.

Preity made her Cannes debut in 2006. She attended the premiers of The Wind That Shakes The Barley and Paris, Je T'aime. She returned to the festival in 2013 as the brand ambassador of the luxury watch brand, Chopard. She'll be next seen in Lahore 1947.
'Stay hydrated, drink lots of water'

Malaika said, "That's why I keep saying we have to be conscious and aware of our environment. That's the only way the environment will love you back. But of course, with things like a heat wave, you cannot do much. So, stay hydrated, drink lots of water, wear cool, comfortable clothes, use sunscreen, and try carrying an umbrella  these are the tips that I can give."

Shah Rukh Khan is back in Mumbai

Shah Rukh was admitted to KD Hospital in Ahmedabad on Wednesday after suffering a heat stroke due to severe dehydration. On Thursday, the actor was discharged after receiving treatment, and he returned to Mumbai. However, fans have to wait a little to catch a glimpse of him after the recent health scare.

The actor and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) co-owner was in Ahmedabad on Tuesday to attend an Indian Premier League (IPL) match of KKR at Narendra Modi Stadium  KKR entered their fourth IPL final with a thumping eight-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 1.

KKR co-owner Juhi Chawla shared a health update after meeting Shah Rukh while he was in hospital. In an interview with News18, Juhi assured fans that the actor will return to support their team in the IPL 2024 finals on Sunday. Shah Rukh was not feeling too well last night but he is being attended to and was feeling much better this evening. God willing, he will soon be up, and in the stands on the weekend, cheering the team, as we play the finals, she said.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's legal tiff over their French winery, Chateau Miraval, has blown out of proportions and created all sorts of rifts between the family members. While the exes have long been at loggerheads, their kids are presumably getting the rough end of the stick. Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Justin Levine, and Angelina Jolie attend the opening night of The Outsiders at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in New York City, New York, U.S., April 11, 2024. REUTERS/Caitlin Ochs(REUTERS)

The Mr and Mrs Smith co-stars share six childrenShiloh, Zahara, Vivienne, Knox, Pax, and Maddox. The cumulative impact of being raised in the public eye and their parents' current ruptured dynamics is significantly affecting the family tree. After everything that has possibly transpired between the former It couple of Hollywood, their kids are finally making their stance clear on the no-longer familial feud through moves that have particularly fleshed out into silent killers for Pitt.

15-year-old Vivienne is the latest family member to have reportedly dropped her father's name, Pitt."

Also read | Daniel Craig and Rian Johnson's third Knives Out mystery titled Wake Up Dead Man. Watch

Vivienne Jolie drops Pitt from her name

According to InTouchWeekly, the teenager was listed as Vivienne Jolie in the Playbill credits for The Outsiders, indirectly revealing that she, along with her sisters, had dropped her father's name.

The youngest Jolie-Pitt daughter supported her mother with the production of the Broadway play that opened earlier in 2024. She was reportedly also credited as an assistant for the same. Praising the theatre student, the Salt star told media sources she inspired her to take charge as a producer on The Outsiders. She added, (Vivienne) reminds me of my mother in that she isnt focused on being the centre of attention but in being a support to other creatives.

Despite not being photographed with them in a long time, Pitt has been reportedly meeting his kids on a regular basis. A source told InTouch in February that Pitt was doing his best to rebuild their relationship. However, the new turn in the road seemingly speaks louder than words about where Jolie and Pitt's shared children stand in this divide.

As their kids continue to seemingly drop Pitt's mention from their names, the implication is that they want nothing to do with Brad, an insider told a magazine.

Also read | Morgan Spurlock, director of Oscar-nominated documentary Super Size Me, dies aged 53

So, why would the pack be going down this path despite rumours about them still being in contact with their father? The family's former bodyguard, Tony Webb, suggested that it was possibly all Angelina's doing. OK Magazine's report stated that one of his employees heard her encouraging [the kids] to avoid spending time with Mr Pitt during custody visits.

The original source who spoke of Pitt's kids distancing themselves from their father also concluded that the present commotion around the family basically confirmed Brads biggest fear: that Angelina sabotaged his kids relationship with him.

Vivienne Jolie is the couple's third child to have let go of her father's last name. Previously, Zahara Marley Jolie introduced herself at a Spelman College sorority event, minus Pitt's mention. Moreover, Shiloh's private Instagram account, as previously tagged on choreographer Lil Kellaan Carter's dance video, highlights her name as Shi Jolie.
Iranian rebel director Mohammad Rasoulof made a great escape from his homeland days before his movie, The Seed of the Scared Fig, was to play at the prestigious competition slot in the ongoing Cannes Film Festival. The film could remind you of an ever-enduring classic, The Sound of Music with Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. (Also read: Cannes Film Festival 2024: Here's what international reviews say about India's All We Imagine As Light) Director Mohammad Rasoulof poses for a portrait photograph for the film The Seed of the Sacred Fig at the 77th international film festival, Cannes.(Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP)

The Sound of Music deja vu

Told to serve Hitler's occupying forces in Austria during the end of the country's golden days of music and melody, the Von Trapp family escapes a life of servitude. In a hauntingly memorable climax, we see them trek across the Alps.

The latest escape saga by Rasoulof had all the ingredients of a thriller  much like The Sound of Music story. But unlike the Von Trapps, Rasoulof did not appear to be happy at Cannes. For him, it was a very tough call  to stay on in Iran to face lashes, an eight-year jail term and being stopped from making what he knew best, cinema. Over a period of just two hours, he ran away from Iran.

Rasoulof's great escape

He told the media that accused of committing a crime against Iran and all set to be punished, he decided to leave behind his beloved country. With very little time left before the revolutionary guards came to arrest him, he chose freedom. Freedom to make movies  not to rot in jail.

Rasoulof said in a statement: Death sentences are being executed as the Islamic Republic has targeted the lives of protesters and civil rights activists. Its hard to believe, but right now as Im writing this, the young rapper, Toomaj Salehi, is held in prison and has been sentenced to death. The scope and intensity of repression has reached a point of brutality where people expect news of another heinous government crime every day. The criminal machine of the Islamic Republic is continuously and systematically violating human rights.

Rasoulof knew how to escape without getting caught. He threw away all the electronic gadgets, including his mobile phone, for he knew, they would help the Iranian police track him down. And on foot, he crossed the mountains before reaching Germany, where freedom and peace awaited him. His trek was so similar to the one in The Sound of Music. Cinema mirrors life all right.

However, Rasoulof is confident he would return home. Things would change there, he felt. Many Iranian artists have had this wish, but they have not been able to go back to their motherland.

Rasoulof, who won Berlins Golden Bear in 2020 with There Is No Evil and the top prize in Un Certain Regard at Cannes in 2018 with A Man Of Integrity, shows in his latest outing how some people are mute spectators to the ills that plague his country. They are so devoted to the system. Not everyone can be as bold as him
Music composer Ilaiyaraaja has taken legal action against the Malayalam hit Manjummel Boys producers for using his iconic song Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan from the Kamal Haasan-starrer Gunaa in their film. The producers, however, have countered, stating that they legally acquired the rights to use this hit song in their movie. (Also Read: Ilaiyaraaja issues legal notice to Manjummel Boys team: 'Remove the song Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhalan or...') Ilaiyaraaja is miffed from the usage of his song from Gunaa in Manjummel Boys.

We bought the rights

The producers of Manjummel Boys told The News Minute that they had not yet received the legal notice sent by Ilaiyaraaja. But they clarified that they bought the rights for the song from two music companies.

Shawn Anthony, one of the films producers, told them, One of the companies holds the rights for the Telugu version, and the other for the remaining languages. We got rights from Pyramid and Sreedevi Sounds, the music companies which own the song.

He stated that they acquired rights not just for the Tamil song but for all the languages Manjummel Boys released in. Soubin Shahir, who also acted in the film, and his father Babu Shahir, also produced the Chidambaram-directorial.

Ilaiyaraajas legal notice

PTI reported that Ilaiyaraaja served a legal notice to the producers of Manjummel Boys earlier this week. His legal counsel Saravanan Annadurai told the news agency, Whether it is a tribute or not, when a song by someone is used in another film, it has to follow legal procedures and permission must be sought.

The notice stated that it is a settled position of law that where a person is using such original musical works for commercial benefit, exploitation and other business gains, such person is legally obliged and bound to acquire necessary and appropriate permission/license from the author/owner.

In this case, the owner of the song is Ilaiyaraaja and Majummel Boys used his song without his consent or any payment of royalty or license fee, added Saravanan.

The notice requires the producers to either obtain proper permission to continue using the song in the film or remove it within 15 days of receiving the notice. If they fail to do so, we will seek remedy under the Copyright Act 1957, said Saravanan.

Ilaiyaraajas legal woes

On May 2, Ilaiyaraaja also issued a notice to the producers of Coolie, starring Rajinikanth, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film, produced by Sun Pictures, used a portion of the song Va Va Pakkam Va from the 1983 Tamil film Thanga Magan, which also saw Rajinikanth in the lead role. He is also in a legal tussle with the private recording company Echo Recording Pvt. Ltd. over 4500 of his songs at the Madras High Court.
Actor Rajinikanth, fresh from receiving a Golden Visa for the UAE, made a significant visit to a temple in Abu Dhabi. He visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir there, and the temple's official X (formerly Twitter) account shared pictures and a video. (Also Read: Rajinikanth receives a Golden Visa from UAE's culture and tourism department: I am deeply honoured) Rajinikanth at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

Rajinikanth visits temple in UAE

The BAPS Hindu Mandir shared pictures and a video of Rajinikanth seeking blessings at the temple. In the video, he can be seen accompanying a priest who explains the temples significance to him. The priest ties a thread around Rajinikanths wrist and gifts him a book before he leaves the temple. The pictures and video see the actor taking in the temples architecture and posing for clicks with the people accompanying him on the trip.

Rajinikanth receives Golden Visa

After receiving the Golden Visa from Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), Government of Abu Dhabi on Thursday, Rajinikanth shared a video with the press in which he says, I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious UAE Golden visa from Abu Dhabi Govt. My heartfelt thanks to the Abu Dhabi govt. and also to my good friend Mr Yusuff Ali, CMD of Lulu Group, for facilitating this visa and for all the support.

On Monday, Rajinikanth spent time with his friend Yusuff and some top company executives of Lulu Group. He also visited Yusuffs house and took a ride in his Rolls Royce. A video shared by one of the companys employees shows Rajinikanth looking gleeful as he rides in the swanky car to the residence, where the duo chat away.

Upcoming work

Rajinikanth has exciting films lined up for release. He will soon be seen in TJ Gnanavels Vettaiyan, which will be released in October and also star Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil and Rana Daggubati. He will soon resume shooting for Lokesh Kanagarajs Coolie. The films announcement teaser was met with a good response.
Vikram K Kumars hit 2014 film Manam, which starred all members of the Akkineni family, has been re-released in theatres. One scene in the film sees Naga Chaitanya marry real life ex-wife Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and videos shared on X (formerly Twitter) show fans going berserk during it. (Also Read: Naga Chaitanya buys Porsche worth 3.5 crore; check out pics of his expensive car collection) Naga Chaitanya watched as fans went berserk over his scenes with Samantha Ruth Prabhu in Manam.

Naga Chairanya watches Manam

On Thursday evening, Chaitanya attended a special screening of Manam at Devi 70 MM. In videos shared by fans on X, Chaitanya can be seen entering the theatre flanked by security even as fans try to catch a glimpse of him and shower him with flowers. He sits with director Vikram and a few other members of the films team to watch the movie.

Fans also captured videos showing his reactions, particularly during a wedding scene with Samantha. As the fans go berserk in a scene that sees him and Samantha trying the knot, fans scream and throw confetti in the theatre as Chaitanya maintains his composure. Later, he can be seen asking the fans to calm down and sit so he can watch the film. Fans also shared other scenes of them and Chaitanya enjoying Manam.

Naga Chaitanya and Samanthas films

Chaitanya and Samantha first acted together in the 2010 film Ye Maaya Chesave; their last film was the 2019 film Majili. They worked together in Autonagar Surya and Manam, with Chaitanya featuring in a cameo in Oh! Baby.

But Manam was special as they shot for the film when they were dating. The fantasy drama that hinges on the concept of rebirth and the long-lasting impression of love starred everyone from the family, including Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), Nagarjuna, Amala and Akhil, apart from Amitabh Bachchan, Shriya Saran, Brahmanandam, Ali, Raashii Khanna and Lavanya Tripathi.

Manam was the last film ANR acted in before his passing in January 2014. The film was released in May of that year.

Upcoming work

Chaitanya will soon be seen in Chandoo Mondetis Thandel with Sai Pallavi as his co-star. Nagarjuna will star in Sekhar Kammulas Kubera with Dhanush, Rashmika Mandanna and Jim Sarbh. Samantha will be seen in Raj & DKs web-series Citadel: Honey Bunny with Varun Dhawan.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote to Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav on April 13, requesting that the ministry accord post facto forest clearance to the construction of a commando battalion unit in a protected forest, documents accessed by HT showed. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has requested the Centre to revisit the matter holistically. (ANI)

HT reported on April 10 that a forest official in Assam allowed construction of a commando battalion unit in a protected forest to purportedly stop encroachments by Mizo people from the neighbouring state of Mizoram. The move created a furore among local conservationists, compelling the Union ministry to take note and direct the state government, in March, to halt construction immediately.

In 2023, MK Yadava, the then principal chief conservator of forests and head of the forest force in Assam, approved the construction of a commando battalion unit in the Assam-Mizoram interstate border area of Inner Line Reserve Forest involving diversion of forest area of around 44 acres. Construction started shortly after that but without a prior forest clearance under the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2023. The ministry took note of the offence and held that the construction was in contravention of statutory provisions and rules under law. It also directed that the state stop construction activities at the site.

Documents received under RTI, seen by HT, show that Sarma has now requested the Centre to revisit the matter holistically since stopping construction work purportedly to protect a tiny area, when compared to the large-scale areas of forests experiencing unabated destruction, may not be a pragmatic approach and would defeat the forest conservation efforts of the state government as well as the ministry.

He further said drone photographic images have established that rampant construction of pitch roads, bridges, police battalion camps, offices, and settlement of encroacher villages from the Mizoram side is going on unabated in more than 3,000ha of reserve forests (RF). Taking advantage of the disputed interstate boundary, new encroachments have penetrated between 6km to 10km inside the ILRF (Inner Line RF). According to the Global Forest Watch Network, more than 2,000ha of forest has been cleared in the ILRF from 2018 to 2022. Further, more than 600 cubic metres of felled trees have been seized in the ILRF, which is a clear indication of large-scale felling. There are also reports that Rohingya are being settled by some inimical forces in the ILRF.

Sarma went on to explain the fallout of this in his letter: In fact on July 26, 2021, when the government of Assam attempted to remove encroachments, there was unprovoked firing by miscreants from the Mizoram side using automatic weapons, which led to the death of six Assam police personnel along with serious injuries to the superintendent of police while the district magistrate and the divisional forest officer narrowly escaped with their lives... the issue has thus escalated from being that of forest conservation only to one involving national security concerns too...

In this backdrop, I request your kind intervention for according post facto approval of the ministry to the construction activities, and allow resumption of the construction of the commando camp in the RF, since the protection of that very forest does not otherwise seem possible, he urged.

Yadava was appointed special chief secretary (forests) by the Assam government following his retirement in February.

The Assam government also sought forest clearance for the project through the Union environment ministrys Parivesh website on April 19. The documents that have been uploaded on the website show that clearance has been sought for 11.5ha of built-up area of the project, which covers an area of 44ha. The project justification document sums up arguments made by Sarma in his letter to the ministry.

HT sought a response from the ministry on May 16 on Sarmas request, and asked what action had been taken about the construction that had already taken place on the site without prior forest clearance. Though ministry officials acknowledged receiving the queries, they did not respond to them.

It is sad to see that Mr MK Yadava, who has brazenly violated the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act on multiple counts, and in whose case the central government has written for penal action to be taken under Section 3A of the Act, is being sought to be protected through D.O. letters. It brings down the stature of the government in the public eye, said Rohit Choudhury, wildlife and RTI activist, who had sought correspondence related to the construction of the commando battalion at Hailakandi.

Both the chief ministers office and the Union ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

HT reported on April 25 that Yadava approved the diversion of another 28ha at the Assam-Nagaland border in the Geleky reserve forest in 2022 for a police battalion camp, according to official documents.
The West Bengal police suspect that Anwarul Azim Anar, the slain Bangladesh member of parliament, could have been lured into a New Town flat in Kolkata by a woman and then murdered by contract killers. Bangladeshi lawmaker Md Anwarul Azim Anar. (Sourced)

Apart from the honeytrap angle, the police are also probing a US citizen's role in the murder. Per the police, the person was the politician's close friend and had allegedly paid 5 crore for the killing. The person, who owns a flat in the West Bengal capital, is currently in the United States.

Anwarul Azim Anar was last seen alive entering a rented flat in Kolkata.

A senior officer told PTI that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap laid by a woman who was also close to the victim's friend.

"It seems, Anar was lured into the New Town flat by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat," the officer told the news agency.

The CID has found CCTV footage which showed Anar entering the flat with a man and a woman. The duo came in and out of the flat later, but the MP never emerged again.

"In the CCTV footage, the politician was seen entering the flat with the two persons. The duo was later seen coming out and re-entering the flat the next day but the MP was not seen again," the officer told agency.

The duo later came out of the flat with a massive suitcase.

The police found blood stains inside the flat. Several plastic bags were also used to dump the body parts.

The police suspect that the MP was first strangulated. Later, his body was chopped into several pieces. The flesh was segregated from the bones and mixed with turmeric powder to delay decomposition.

Also read: Man living illegally in Mumbai held for chopping Bangladesh lawmakers body

"We suspect that after killing Anar, the murderers mutilated the body, segregated the flesh from the bones and mixed those with turmeric powder to delay decomposition," the officer added.

The body parts were placed in the trolley bag and later scattered at different locations. Some parts were also kept in a fridge.

To mislead his family members and friends, the killers sent out messages to his contacts, asking them to not contact him as he was travelling to Delhi.

Meanwhile, a Mumbai-based butcher, who skinned and cut the body of the MP, was arrested by the CID.

One Jihad Hawaldar, 24 has been arrested. Hailing from Khulna in Bangladesh, Hawaldar was illegally staying in Mumbai. He was directly involved in the crime. Investigation is going on, an IPS officer told HT.
Bhubaneshwar: Alleging that chief minister Naveen Patnaik has been held hostage by his deputy VK Pandian, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha on Friday appealed to the director general of police (DGP) to free Patnaik from the clutches of Pandian. Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik (File Photo)

In a letter to Odisha DGP Arun Kumar Sarangi, former president of the partys state unit, Sameer Mohanty, alleged that Patnaik has been held hostage by Pandian for the last few days.

You must be aware of a sensitive issue in Odisha. The Chief Minister of our state Naveen Patnaik has been held hostage by his former personal secretary VK Pandian for some days...It is evident from the videos posted on various social media platforms of the Chief Ministers own party BJD [Biju Janata Dal] that the CM of the State is being held hostage by Pandian and some other non-Odia officials. We doubt whether the Chief Secretary and you (DGP) are able to hold discussions with him as per the protocol, reads the letter sent to the police chief.

Also Read: BJP already got 310 seats, will cross 400 in remaining two phases: Amit Shah

This came amid allegations from Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union minister Giriraj Singh that CM Patnaik was being held captive by his close associate, BJD leader VK Pandian.

On Wednesday, Singh alleged that the Odisha CM is being held captive by a coterie and that they plan to appoint Pandian as the next CM.

Levelling similar allegations, Sarma said that the BJD leader and close aide of Odisha CM, Pandian, has captured Patnaik, restricting his ability to interact independently.

All the people of Odisha have the right to know about the Chief Minister. Hence, Odisha BJP is requesting that you in the presence of a justice and some other reputed personalities make the Chief Minister free from the clutches of VK Pandian and hold an interaction with the media in the State. We are expecting that for the larger interest of the State, you will give emphasis to such a sensitive issue and take proper steps in this direction at the earliest, Mohanty wrote.

Patnaik quickly responded to this and said that he was fit and had been campaigning for the elections.

Hitting out at the BJP, Patnaik said, There is a limit to lies. BJP has crossed all the limits.I am fully fit and I have been campaigning across the state over the past one month, said Patnaik.

Pandian said the BJP should come up with innovative ideas instead of talking about something which does not exist. You are all watching the chief minister. It is very unfortunate, below the belt. The people of Odisha will not appreciate this kind of demeaning of the chief minister who enjoys such popularity among the people. I only suggest letting them come up with something innovative. It is so substandard (sic), said Pandian.

The BJP earlier this week intensified its attack against the BJD, asking whether the chief minister himself is speaking in the short videos released by the party or are generated by AI.

Had the videos been real, the CM would have made similar statements in his public meetings. But at public meetings, he is seen concluding his speech in a minute by reading from a script, Mohanty alleged, adding the chief ministers health is not permitting him to speak at length at public meetings. Hence, the person, who is controlling him and running the government is making such videos using AI. In response, Patnaik said that the BJP should use its own intelligence.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Punjab without the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), which quit the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over the now-scrapped farm laws. It is pinning its hopes on Prime Minister Narendra Modis guarantees to bag a few of the 13 seats in Punjab. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Punjab. (PTI)

On Thursday, Modi campaigned in the state and said Punjab and the Sikh community have always been at the forefront of nation building. Modi said he would have taken Kartapur Sahib from Pakistan in exchange for prisoners of war had he been in power in 1971. He blamed the Congress for letting the territory remain in Pakistan. For 70 years, we could have a darshan of the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara only with binoculars, Modi said.

The Modi government counts the opening of the Kartarpur Sahib corridor for visa-free access to the last resting place of Guru Nanak among its key achievements.

BJP questions AAP over Maliwal

The now-scrapped Delhi excise policy and the arrest of top Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders gave the BJP a chance to attack chief minister Arvind Kejriwals anti-corruption stance.

Kejriwal, who led the India Against Corruption movement before joining politics, was arrested in March in connection with the alleged irregularities in the policy. Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Singh is out on bail in the case. Former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia continues to be incarcerated.

The BJP, which is confident of winning all seven Lok Sabha seats in the capital, is hoping that the allegations against the AAP leaders will help it dislodge the party from Delhi.

The allegations against Kejriwals aide Bibhav Kumar that he allegedly assaulted Rajya Sabha member Swati Maliwal at the chief ministers residence has given BJP another chance to attack the AAP. They have cast a shadow on the AAPs election campaign.

On Thursday Union minister Smriti Irani accused Kejriwal of betraying Maliwal. BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi questioned Kumars presence at Kejriwals residence, pointing out that he had no role in the party or the government.

A BJP leader said Maliwals allegations will be harder to explain. If there was the slightest chance that the party would gain sympathy for Kejriwal going to jail, the Maliwals accusations will ensure there is no public support, said the leader requesting anonymity.
A woman Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker was killed and several others were injured in an alleged attack by Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers in Nandigram in West Bengal in the early hours of Thursday, two days before the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, triggering widespread agitation and tension in the region. A property set on fire in Nandigram on Thursday. (ANI)

As the BJP, which blocked roads and burnt tyres to mark their protest, accused chief minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee of instigating the violence, the TMC said it was a result of the opposition partys internal feud between its old timers and new recruits.

The region, under Tamluk Lok Sabha seat, is considered to be the backyard of leader of opposition Suvendu Adhikari and is scheduled to vote on Saturday. Former Calcutta high court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay has been fielded by the BJP whereas the TMC has nominated Debangshu Bhattacharya from the seat.

According to police officials aware of the details, BJP worker Rathibala Arhi (56) was allegedly killed and seven others, including the deceaseds son, were injured after they were attacked with rods and sharp weapons by a group of bike-borne unidentified people in Manasa Bazar at Sonachura at around 2am on Thursday.

Rathibala Ari was killed and a few people were injured in the attack in the early hours of Thursday. The deceaseds son Sanjay Ari suffered grievous injuries and is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kolkata. A detailed probe is underway, a police officer said, seeking anonymity. No arrests were made till the time of filing this report.

BJP leaders claimed their workers were guarding a local polling booth when the attack took place. TMC-backed criminals attacked them. Rathibala was murdered and others were left badly injured, BJP district general secretary Meghnadh Paul told PTI.

After Sanjays condition turned very critical, he was shifted to a hospital in the city, Paul said, adding that others are being treated at a local medical establishment.

On Thursday, BJP workers took to the streets to protest against the incident. They burnt tyres and used wooden logs to block roads in at least 13 places and ransacked a few shops and set them ablaze, prompting the police to resort to lathicharge to disperse them, people aware of the details said. Besides the state police, central forces and Rapid Action Force personnel were deployed at the spot to monitor the situation.

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, in an oblique reference to Abhishek Banerjees public speech in the area on Wednesday, said on X: The bloodshed was a direct fallout of bhaipo (nephew  Abhishek Banerjee)s provocation in Nandigram yesterday. The murder was orchestrated by the Trinamool after realising its certain defeat. The BJP will see this through to its end, exact revenge in a legal manner, and respond by democratic means.

The opposition party also moved the Election Commission against the inflammatory statements by Mamata Banerjee at a rally on May 16 in Haldia, where she said she will avenge her defeat in Nandigram in the 2021 assembly elections to Adhikari, her former protege.

Dismissing the BJPs allegations, TMC leader Kunal Ghosh said: It (murder) is a very unfortunate incident. The TMC has nothing to do with it. This is the result of the BJPs internal feud between its old timers and new recruits. The police must investigate this.
KOLKATA: The Calcutta high court on Friday ordered a stay till June 17 on the Kolkata police investigation against Sandeep Singh, an officer on special duty (OSD) to West Bengal governor C V Ananda Bose, in the alleged molestation case lodged against the governor on May 2 on a complaint by a Raj Bhawan employee, city police officials said. Trinamool Congress members shout slogans during a protest against West Bengal governor C V Ananda Bose over sexual assault allegations, in Kolkata on May 17 (PTI)

The OSD, who was accused of trying to restrain the complainant after the alleged molestation took place in the governors chamber, was granted anticipatory bail by Kolkatas Bankshall court on May 21.

Citing a notice sent to him by the police, the OSD petitioned the Calcutta high court to seek quashing the first information report (FIR) lodged against him. His petition said the police complaint against him was filed on May 7, five days after the alleged molestation, and his name did not figure in the first complaint lodged at Hare Street police station on May 2.

After the hearing, justice Amrita Sinha said on Friday that the investigation was in its preliminary stage.

The evidence i.e. CCTV footage are already in the custody of the investigating officer (IO). The offence for which the petitioner is tried is of wrongful restraint and abetting an offence. It has been mentioned that the petitioner along with a few others tried to take her (the alleged victim) back (to Raj Bhavan) and also snatch her phone but she managed to escape from the room. Whether the ingredients disclosed in the complaint can be treated as wrongful restraint will be decided. At this stage, it does not appear that the probe will suffer in any manner if the same is temporarily stayed till June 17, justice Sinha said in the order, according to the legal news portal Bar and Bench.

Advocate general Kishore Datta opposed the OSDs petition saying the police sent a summon notice because it had no intention to arrest him. Datta also countered the argument that Raj Bhawan staff cannot be probed because the governor enjoys immunity.

According to Article 361 of the Constitution, no criminal proceedings can be initiated against the President and the governor of a state as long as they are in office. In view of this immunity granted to the governor, Kolkata police has not registered a case against Bose.

A young woman, who works at Kolkatas Raj Bhawan as a temporary staff and lives at the staff quarters on campus, lodged a written complaint at the local Hare Street police station on May 2, five days before the third phase of Lok Sabha polls in Bengal.

She alleged that she was molested on March 24 and earlier that afternoon (May 2) by the governor who summoned her to his chamber on the pretext of offering her a permanent job.

The governor denied the charge hours after the allegation was levelled. Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God Bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal., the governor said in a statement on May 2.

On May 6, after returning from a short trip to Kerala, his home state, Bose called this a political conspiracy.

Governor is an apolitical person. To the best of my conscience, I have tried to be above politics. I am very sorry that the chief minister has dragged me into politics, especially at a time when the elections are going on..Mamata Banerjees politics is dirty, Bose said on May 6.
Greater Chennai Commissioner of Police Sandeep Rai Rathore on Thursday submitted the file related to the invocation of Goondas Act against whistleblower-turned-YouTuber Savukku Shankar, following directions from the Madras high court earlier in the day. This was based on a habeas corpus petition filed by Shankars mother challenging his detention. The Chennai police chief had invoked the Goondas Act against Shankar on May 12 after he was arrested by the Coimbatore police in Theni on May 4 on charges of defaming women police officers (ANI)

During the hearing earlier in the day, the summer vacation bench of justices G R Swaminathan and PB Balaji asked the prosecution to be ready for final hearing of the petition on Friday. The Chennai police chief had invoked the Goondas Act against Shankar on May 12 after he was arrested by the Coimbatore police in Theni on May 4 on charges of defaming women police officers. He was later booked in at least five cases including in Chennai.

The Goondas Act against Shankar was invoked on the complaint of an officer of the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA). The Goondas detention order was served to him in the Coimbatore prison.

There are seven cases including the aforementioned case are pending against Shankar in the CCB/Cyber Crime PS of the GCP, out of which three cases are under Investigation, charge sheets have been filed in two cases, the remaining two cases are pending trial, the Chennai police said on May 12.

Shankars mother A Kamala had contended in her petition that her son was facing this because he is a strong critic of the state government and the police. She added that the police broke her sons right arm in the Coimbatore prison. She has filed another writ petition seeking an inquiry by the National Human Rights Centre (NHRC) into the alleged custodial violence he faced in the prison. The Madras high court on May 8 directed the Coimbatore district legal services authority to submit a report on the health condition based on the first habeas corpus petition filed by Shankars mother that he is facing custodial violence.

On May 9, the high court closed the petition filed by Shankars mother after directing the prison authorities to consider her representation for shifting her son from Coimbatore central prison to any other prison since she complained of custodial violence and feared threat to his life. On May 16, Shankar was then taken to Mahatma Gandhi memorial government hospital (MGMGH) for medical examination ahead of police custody obtained by the Trichy police for one day. Shankar has moved the principal special court for Essential Commodities (EC) and NDPS Act cases in Madurai seeking bail. However the local court on May 21 granted police two days custody to interrogate Shankar.
Raipur: A day after seven Maoists were killed in an encounter, another Maoist, a woman, was killed in a gunfight with security personnel in a forest along the Narayanpur-Bijapur district, police said. Police said they also seized rifles, muzzle, cooker bombs and other materials from the encounter spot (HT Photo/Sourced)

Police said that the encounter took place when a team of Special Task Force (STF) were returning to Dantewada district after Thursdays anti-Naxal operation.

The STF personnel were part of a joint squad of security forces that had killed seven Maoists in an encounter in the Pallewaya-Handawada area along the Bijapur-Narayanpur.

After Thursdays encounter, security personnel were returning to their base when Maoists opened fire on a patrolling team, leading to an encounter. After the firing stopped, the body of a woman Maoist in uniform was recovered from the spot, said Kamalochan Kashyap, deputy inspector general of police (DIG) (South Bastar) in a press conference on Friday.

Kashyap said that altogether eight Maoists were killed in this operation, including four women cadres, which was launched on May 21. The firing between the security personnel and Maoists continued from Thursday 11am to Friday 9am. The process of identification of the Maoists is going on, he added.

The police forces of Narayanpur, Bastar and Dantewada, along with security forces, had launched the operation based on the input that a senior Maoist leader, the divisional commander, along with 60 Maoists are camping in the Pallewaya-Handawada area.

We have also busted a training camp of Maoists in Rekavaya village. We seized one 303 rifle, one 305, two 12-bore guns, and four muzzle-loading rifles (Bharmaar), cooker bombs, wireless set and other items, DIG Kashyap said.

Police have also detained a few suspects venturing near the encounter spot. Some people changed clothes and tried to mingle with villagers as they had done in earlier encounters. These people have been detained and are being questioned, the DIG added.

With the latest incident, 113 Maoists have been killed so far this year in separate encounters with security forces in the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accused the Congress of supporting Islamic law Sharia under the guise of the Muslim Personal law. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public meeting for the Lok Sabha elections, in Mandi district on May 24.(PTI)

Addressing a poll rally in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi, the prime minister advocated for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a common set of laws that would subsume customary laws across faiths and govern issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and maintenance. Follow full coverage of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Modi has pledged to implement a Uniform Civil Code, the prime minister said at the rally. Regardless of whether an Indian citizen is Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, or Buddhist, there should be a uniform civil law for everyone.

However, the Congress party is opposing the Uniform Civil Code. Congress supports Sharia law under the guise of Muslim Personal Law.

In Friday's speech, Modi also said that Kangana Ranaut, the BJP's candidate from the Mandi constituency in the Lok Sabha elections, represents the aspirations of youngsters and "our daughters".

He urged the people of Mandi to give a befitting reply to the Congress for making derogatory statements against the actor which he also described as an insult to Mandi and Himachal Pradesh.

Congress is still stuck in the same outdated mindset. Have you seen what Congress says to daughters who achieve success on their own? the prime minister asked.

The derogatory remarks Congress has made about Kangana Ji by mentioning Mandi are an insult to Mandi, an insult to Choti Kashi, an insult to Himachal, and an insult to every daughter of Himachal.

Modi also accused the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh of selectively distributing central aid meant for victims of last year's floods and promised to find out where the money went once he returns to power.

The BJP had earlier said that the Centre had released 1,762 crore for the victims of floods, besides funds for the construction of 2,300 roads and 11,000 houses. It alleges that Congress gave the moment to select people.
Cyclone Remal news: A depression in the Bay of Bengal is likely to develop into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall somewhere between West Bengal's Sagar Island and Bangladesh's Khepupara around Sunday midnight, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Friday. Cyclone Remal news: The meteorological department expects a wind speed of upto 100 to 120 km per hour at the time of the landfall.(IMD)

The meteorological department expects a wind speed of up to 100 to 120 km per hour at the time of the landfall.

The weather system will bring heavy to very heavy rain in the coastal districts of West Bengal on May 26 and 27, according to the IMD.

Cyclone Remal: Here are 10 things to know about the cyclonic storm
A total of 58 parliamentary constituencies (PCs) are going to the polls on Saturday in the penultimate phase of the seven-phase Lok Sabha election. As has been the case in the five preceding phases, the Congress-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) is again set to witness more intra-alliance conflicts than the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The single biggest source of intra-alliance conflicts for the INDIA bloc is the lack of a formal seat-sharing arrangement between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the local alliance of the Communist parties and the Congress. Here is how the NDA and INDIA alliances look like in this phase. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in Phulpur on May 19.

A total of 58 parliamentary constituencies (PCs) are going to the polls on Saturday in the penultimate phase of the seven-phase Lok Sabha election.

Who are the NDA constituents in this phase?

Five NDA parties are contesting the sixth phase of elections: the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Janata Dal United or JD(U), the All Jharkhand Student Union (AJSU), the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or LJP-Ram Vilas, and the Rashtriya Samaj Paksha (RSPS). These parties have fielded 51, four, two, one, and four candidates respectively.

Who is contributing to the intra-alliance conflicts in the NDA?

With 62 candidates fielded in 57 PCs  no NDA party has fielded a candidate in the Anantnag-Rajouri PC in Jammu & Kashmir  there are intra-alliance conflicts in five PCs. This is because the AJSU and the RSPS have fielded their candidates in addition to the formal NDA candidate in one and four PCs respectively. The AJSU has fielded a candidate in Keonjhar PC in Odisha, which the BJP is also contesting. The RSPS has fielded one candidate in Bihar (where the formal NDA candidate is from the LJP-Ram Vilas), one in Uttar Pradesh (where the formal NDA candidate is from the BJP), and two in Delhi (where the formal NDA candidate is from the BJP).

To be sure, these intra-alliance conflicts may not make the NDA vulnerable unless the contest with INDIA parties becomes closer in 2024 than in 2019. This is because the NDA won three of these five PCs in 2019 with a comfortable margin of more than 20% and another one with a four percent margin. It had only lost the Keonjhar PC in Odisha to the BJD.

Who are the constituents of INDIA?

Fourteen INDIA parties are contesting this phase of elections. The Congress is contesting the most number of PCs (25 PCs) in this group, but this is half the proportion the BJP is contesting in the NDA. The other big INDIA contestants in this phase are the Samajwadi Party (SP), which is contesting 12 PCs; and the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which is contesting 9 PCs. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) are contesting five and four PCs respectively. Among the left parties, the All India Forward Bloc (AIFB), the Communist Party of India Marxist (CPIM) and Communist Party of India are contesting six, five, and three PCs. The remaining parties are contesting on less than three PCs each.

Who is contributing to the intra-alliance conflicts in the INDIA bloc?

INDIA members failed to reach a seat-sharing agreement in West Bengal. The TMC and the CPI-CPI(M)- Congress alliance have, therefore, fielded candidates against each other in each phase so far. This is also the single biggest source of intra-alliance conflict in the sixth phase. West Bengal is contributing eight of 17 PCs where there are intra-alliance conflicts in the INDIA bloc. Of the remaining nine such PCs, three are in Uttar Pradesh, two in Delhi, and one each in Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand and Odisha.

Apart from the conflict between the TMC and the CPI-CPI(M)-Congress alliance, the biggest contributor to intra-alliance conflict is the All India Forward Bloc (AIFB). The AlFB has fielded six candidates in the sixth phase, all in PCs where the performance of other INDIA members has been better historically. It has fielded two candidates in Delhi PCs that the AAP is also contesting; two in Uttar Pradesh that the SP is also contesting; and one each in West Bengal and Jammu & Kashmir, where there are already multiple INDIA members contesting. To be sure, other parties have also contributed to intra-alliance conflicts, but in only one PC each.

While most of these intra-alliance conflicts are notional even in the INDIA bloc, such conflicts may be of more importance in the INDIA bloc than in the NDA. The 2019 results can be compared for 16 of 17 the PCs (all except Jammu & Kashmir) where there are such conflicts. The BJP won 12 of these 16 PCs in 2019, while the TMC and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won three and one respectively.
A Delhi court on Friday convicted social activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar in a defamation case lodged against her by Delhi lieutenant governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, PTI reported.



Patkar was found guilty of criminal defamation by Saket court's metropolitan magistrate Raghav Sharma. As per law, she might get a jail term of two years or fine or both as the punishment. Both Medha Patkar and the VK Saxena have been locked in a legal battle since 2000 after she filed a suit against him for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA).

Both Patkar and the Delhi LG have been locked in a legal battle since 2000 after she filed a suit against him for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA).

VK Saxena was then the chief of Ahmedabad-based NGO National Council for Civil Liberties.

Saxena had also filed two cases against her for making derogatory remarks against him on a TV channel and issuing a defamatory press statement.



Last year, the Gujarat high court had provided a temporary relief for Saxena by issuing an interim stay on any further proceedings related to the case concerning the alleged assault on Patkar in 2002.



VK Saxena along with two other BJP MLAs and a Congress leader is accused of assaulting the social activist at the Sabaramati Ashram in 2002.



The incident occurred during a meeting aimed at promoting peace after communal riots broke out in Gujarat. A first information report (FIR) was registered against the current Delhi LG and the others for unlawful assembly, assault, wrongful restraint, and criminal intimidation.



In another case, Patkar along with 12 others were booked in a case of fraud in Barwani district of Madhya Pradesh last year. As per the FIR, Patkar and other trustees misled the people to donate to her trust for the welfare of the people of Narmada valley in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.



Patkar shot to the limelight through the Narmada Bachao Andolan in 1985 to highlight issues faced by tribals, labourers, farmers, fishermen, their families and others living near the Narmada valley.
NEW DELHI: A Delhi court on Friday remanded chief minister Arvind Kejriwals aide, Bibhav Kumar, in judicial custody for four days following a request by Delhi police that investigators may need to question him again after receiving forensic reports in the alleged assault case involving Swati Maliwal, Aam Aadmi Partys Rajya Sabha member. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals aide Bibhav Kumar being taken to hospital from Civil Lines police station on May 24 (PTI)

Bibhav Kumar was arrested from the chief ministers house on May 18 and remanded in police custody for five days. At Fridays hearing at the end of his remand, the Delhi police asked metropolitan magistrate Gaurav Goyal to send him to jail for only four days and not 14 days as is the usual practice, because he may be needed for further investigation.

After receipt of the report from the experts, accused may be required for confrontation to proceed with the investigation and to reach to a logical conclusion. Some investigation is being carried out by the members of the investigating team in Mumbai and are likely to return Delhi soon with some evidence and the accused will be required again for confrontation. Accordingly, the accused may please be remanded to 4 days judicial custody remand, the police application said.

Kumars counsel Rajiv Mohan argued for a shorter period and sought his release on bail.

The court accepted the police request and remanded Kumar in custody till May 28. The magistrate also issued notice to police on the bail application and listed the plea for hearing on May 27.

Rajiv Mohan also moved an application seeking disclosure of the seized evidence and preservation of CCTV footage at the chief ministers residence. The request was opposed by additional public prosecutor Atul Srivastava, who argued that the prayers were not relevant at this stage. The court reserved orders on this application, with a decision expected on May 28.

On May 13, Maliwal called the Delhi Police and reported that she was first stopped from meeting the CM and then assaulted at his residence by his staff. While she did not initially file a complaint, a first information report (FIR) was registered on May 16. The incident has led to a political battle between the AAP and BJP with the former claiming that Maliwal acted on the behest of the BJP, and the latter questioned womens safety in Delhi.

In the FIR, Maliwal alleged that Kumar slapped her 7-8 times without any provocation at the chief ministers residence when she went to meet Kejriwal on May 13, pounced on her, kicked her chest and pelvis, and deliberately pulled up her shirt.

The FIR charged Kumar under sections 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 354B (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 341 (Punishment for wrongful restraint), 506 (Punishment for criminal intimidation), 509 (Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code.

On May 17, Kumar also lodged a complaint through an email accusing Maliwal of unauthorised entry, verbal abuse and threats while also claiming the BJPs involvement in the matter.
A PG&E employee replaces power lines knocked down by trees in high winds in Oakland. The California Public Utilities Commission recently approved the fixed-fee plan for the states investor-owned utilities. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle 2021

Regarding Lawmakers just quietly killed a bill to keep your PG&E billing in check. They better have a backup plan (Editorial, SFChronicle.com, May 20): The Chronicles editorial gives the clear  but incorrect  impression that the electricity rate redesign that AB1999 would have rolled back is a rate increase.

The editorials first sentence states that many customers will see a $24.15 monthly fixed charge on their bills and only 500 words later does it acknowledge that the price per kilowatt-hour will decline. It then calls that price decline negligible, ignoring the fact that it exactly offsets the fixed charges.

The change in rates is designed to be revenue-neutral overall, raising bills for some, but lowering them for nearly all of the lowest-income customers. The editorial suggests that AB1999, by rolling back fixed charges, would protect customers from skyrocketing bills. Apparently, the editorial board has not noticed that we currently have no fixed charges and yet we still have skyrocketing bills.

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If the editorial board wants to suggest a change that will keep utility bills in check, how about pressuring the California Legislature to take many of the costs it has mandated off ratepayers bills and into the state budget?

Severin Borenstein, faculty director, UC Berkeley Energy Institute at Haas; member, Board of Governors of the California Independent System Operator

Anti-LGBT speech harmful

Lost in the reaction to Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butkers commencement speech was his vitriolic attack on the LGBT community, which he deemed deadly, dangerous and degenerate.

His words not only dehumanize LGBT individuals, but they also provide a rationale for fired-up zealots to do us harm.

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To those who defend his right to spew hate speech, I agree that he does have (and exercised) that right. He now bears the obligation to weather the reaction to that speech, including calls for his removal from the NFL.

Colin Kaepernick lost his career for kneeling in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. If that is the standard, Butker should face real consequences for his hateful words.

James Chambers, Alameda

S.F. Zoo doing well

Many negative stories have been written about the San Francisco Zoo, and it is time for an honest assessment of the zoo.

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For the past 40 years, I have been a zoo employee, docent and board member of the San Francisco Zoological Society. I have a comprehensive understanding of the zoos operations.

As a nonprofit, the zoo must plan for new and improved exhibits within its budget. However, even when faced with financial challenges such as COVID-19, the zoo always prioritizes the care and well-being of animals.

My motivation as a volunteer is my passion for conservation and the critical need to protect endangered species that, without intervention, face imminent extinction. The zoo plays a crucial role in educating the public about conservation and how to save these species.

The zoo is looking its best in years and is well managed. This is attributable to the president and CEO, Tanya Peterson, whos been a strong leader and defender of the zoos mission. The exciting addition of the pandas will provide even more positive momentum.

Gail Secchia, San Francisco

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McCloskey is missed

Regarding Former South Bay Republican Congressman Paul Pete McCloskey dies at 96 (Politics, SFChronicle.com, May 8): In 1968, I served as a legislative assistant in Pete McCloskeys Washington office when he was first elected to Congress.

Pete would often meet with constituents who disagreed with his opposition to the Vietnam War. I sat in on many of those meetings. Pete would listen respectfully and then reaffirm his strong opposition to the war.

If the constituents continued to disagree with him, he would suggest that maybe they should vote against him in the next election. He said that if he lost, he would return to the San Francisco Peninsula and practice law. He assured them that he was OK with that.

About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies

Getting reelected was never a motivation for Pete in any position he ever took. Maybe that is why he was elected to eight terms in Congress.

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The country has lost a good man.
Delhi Lok Sabha Election Phase 6: All seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will go to polls on Saturday. Before going for polling, voters are advised to check their names in voter list beforehand to avoid any last-minute confusion. Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2024 phase 6: A voter's finger is marked with indelible ink after casting a ballot at a polling station.(Dhiraj Singh/Bloomberg)

Follow- Read Elections 2024 News and Lok Sabha Election Updates

Delhi Lok Sabha Election Phase 6: How to locate your polling booth

To find your polling booth, you need to know your EPIC number. The Election Photo ID Card (EPIC) acts as your voter ID, and the EPIC number is the 10-digit unique identifier located on the front of the card. Follow these steps to locate your polling booth.

Delhi Lok Sabha Election Phase 6: How to check your name in voter list

You can verify your name on the voter list online in three different ways via the website electoralsearch.eci.gov.in.

Using personal details

1. Choose your State and preferred language.

2. Fill in your details such as Name, Middle Name, Surname, Date of Birth, Age, Gender, Relatives Name, and Last Name.

3. Enter your District and Assembly constituency.

4. Enter the captcha code and click on Search.

ALSO READ- Delhi Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Date, schedule, phase, seats, candidates

Using mobile number

1. Select your language and state.

2. Enter your registered mobile number and captcha code.

3. Click on Send OTP to receive a one-time password.

4. Enter the OTP and click on Search.

Using EPIC number

1. Select your language.

2. Enter your EPIC number and the captcha code.

3. Click on Search.

ALSO READ- Lok Sabha elections: Lost your voter ID card? Here's how you can still vote

What is polling times for the sixth phase voting?

Voting will kick off at 7 am and conclude at 6 pm. The average number of contesting candidates per parliamentary constituency in the fifth phase is 18, as per the ECI.

Lok Sabha elections phase 6: 889 candidates in fray

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Saturday that a total of 889 candidates from eight States and Union Territories (UTs) are set to compete in phase six of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for Saturday.

ALSO READ- Indian govt urges NRI voters to participate in 2024 Lok Sabha elections, here's a step-by-step guide

This includes 20 candidates for the adjourned poll in the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency (PC) of Jammu and Kashmir, as stated by the poll body.
All seven parliamentary seats in Delhi will go to polls on Saturday, in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Security has been beefed up and preparations made in polling booths across the capital to ensure the voting exercise is completed smoothly. A woman offers her thumb impression before voting (PTI)(PTI)

Restrictions on liquor sale have already been put into place in Delhi 48 hours ahead of polling. For two days, including polling day, no liquor shops across the national capital will remain open. Further, Delhi Metro and DTC bus services will commence earlier than usual on Saturday to assist voters on polling day.

Lok Sabha election in Delhi: What's closed on May 25?

As per orders issued by the Election Commission of India, all liquor stores and other licensed premises in Delhi will remain closed from 6 PM on May 23 to 6 PM on May 25 for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha election. The same follows for Delhi's adjoining cities - Faridabad and Gurugram. No liquor sale will be permitted in the national capital on June 4.

Schools and educational institutes in the national capital will also remain closed on polling day, due to the heatwave conditions in the city. Further, banks will remain shut on May 25, the fourth Saturday of the month.

Lok Sabha election in Delhi: What will remain open?

Essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies and public transportation will function normally on May 25. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation announced that metro train services will start at 4 am for all routes on Saturday to assist voters on polling day. Similarly, the Delhi Transport Corporation announced that it will run additional bus services for 35 routes across Delhi on May 25 from 4 am.

Commercial establishments such as shops, restaurants, and malls will remain open on polling day in Delhi.

The seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha election will take place on June 1, and the results will be announced on June 4.
The security in and around the national capital, Delhi, has been beefed up as the city prepares for the Lok Sabha elections on May 25. The authorities have also made preparations at polling booths across Delhi in view of the India Meteorological Department's heatwave warning. Electronic voting machines kept for distribution at a distribution centre (Deepak Gupta/HT)

Additional DCP Vishnu Kumar Sharma told ANI on Thursday, In Shahdara, there are 166 polling stations and 827 polling booths. Staff has been appointed as per the guidelines of the Election Commission. A staff of 2500 will be on duty that day... The staff was briefed on May 20 and today... Drones will be used at sensitive polling booths...

The police officer further said the national capital's temperature is set to cross 45 degree Celsius on Saturday. The election authorities have briefed polling booth staffers about how to combat the heatwave and make necessary preparations for voters.

"Glucose and ORS have been distributed to the staff and they have been told that they must also carry necessary things with them to protect from heatwave," he added.

Voting will take place in a single phase in Delhi on May 25 for all seven Lok Sabha seats, in a fierce battle between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the INDIA bloc, comprising of Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The INC and AAP are fighting the elections in alliance in the national capital, with the AAP contesting four and the Congress three seats.

The seven parliamentary constituencies in Delhi are Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi, and West Delhi.

For phase six of the Lok Sabha polls, a total of 889 candidates from eight States and Union Territories (UTs) will contest elections in 58 constituencies. Voting across all constituencies will commence at 7 am and end at 6 pm.

The seventh and the final phase of the general elections in India will take place on June 1, and the counting of the votes will take place on June 4.

(With inputs from ANI)
Two FIRs were lodged following the discovery of graffiti on walls across Delhi University featuring slogans advocating for the boycott of elections. The national capital will go to Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, May 25. The graffiti slogans on Thursday included Boycott elections, join new democracy, and another in Hindi, Chunav Ka Bahishkar Karo.(ANI)

In images shared by ANI, the graffiti slogans included Boycott elections, join new democracy, and another in Hindi, Chunav Ka Bahishkar Karo.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, at least 14 colleges affiliated with Delhi University received bomb threat emails. However, police later confirmed these threats as hoaxes after conducting thorough inspection.

A police official familiar with the situation said that since it was a gazetted holiday, most colleges were closed, although some had administrative staff present. They saw the threat email and reported it to the principals and further to the police. They were safely evacuated, the officer said.

The threats targeted Hindu College on Sudhir Bose Marg, St. Stephens College also on Sudhir Bose Marg, Lady Shri Ram College in Lajpat Nagar, Kirori Mal College at University Enclave, Hansraj College at Malka Ganj, Miranda House on GC Narang Road, and Indraprastha College for Women in Civil Lines.

Subsequently, Delhi Police reassured the public that the threats were false and there was no cause for concern.

Earlier, on Wednesday, Delhi Police disclosed that the Police Control Room in North Block, which houses the Ministry of Home Affairs, had received an email indicating the presence of a bomb.

Delhi Lok Sabha Election 2024

Security measures in and around the national capital, Delhi, have been heightened as the city gears up for the Lok Sabha elections on May 25. Polling across all constituencies begins at 7 am and ends at 6 pm.

Authorities have also taken steps to prepare polling stations across Delhi in response to the heatwave warning issued by the India Meteorological Department.

On May 25, voting will occur in a single phase for all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi, marking a contest primarily between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the INDIA bloc, comprising the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The INC and AAP have allied to contest the elections in the national capital, with the AAP fielding candidates in four seats and the Congress in three.

Delhi has seven parliamentary constituencies: Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi, and West Delhi.
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said when the country was ruled by the Congress and state by the Samajwadi Party, one's day would begin with news about corruption cases and end with that of terrorist blasts. During Cong-SP rule, day began with news of scams, ended with terror blasts: Adityanath

The chief minister's remark came during a public meeting at Pipraich in Gorakhpur parliamentary constituency where he was seeking votes for BJP candidate and sitting MP Ravi Kishan Shukla.

Adityanath also addressed election rallies in Maharajganj, Deoria, Bansgaon, and Gorakhpur, ahead of polling in 14 Lok Sabha seats in the state on Saturday.

During the rally in Gorakhpur, the chief minister also hailed the prime minister, saying terrorism and corruption have been eradicated from India under Modi's leadership.

"In contrast, during the rule of Congress and the Samajwadi Party, the day would begin with a news about a scam and end with a terrorist explosion. Today, even if a firecracker bursts, Pakistan clarifies it has no involvement," he said.

"This is the new India, which neither provokes anyone nor tolerates provocation," an official statement quoted him as saying.

Adityanath emphasised that while the Modi government is elevating India's reputation globally, the alliance between Congress and the Samajwadi Party has always led to a disaster.

During a rally in Kushinagar where he was seeking votes for party candidate Vijay Kumar Dubey, Adityanath attacked members of the INDIA bloc in Uttar Pradesh saying that during the COVID-19 crisis, when the country was in trouble, members of the Congress and SP were missing in action instead of helping the public.

"Among the two boys, one fled to England while the other escaped to Italy," he said, apparently hinting towards SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, respectively.

"During the rule of Congress and SP, the poor and Musahar community were starving to death, and at that time, we protested to fight for their rights. Today, under the prime minister's leadership, we have provided each Musahar family with a house, a land lease, and a ration card," Adityanath said.

BJP national president J P Nadda was also present at the rally in Kushinagar.

Addressing a public meeting in Maharajganj, Adityanath accused the Congress and other members of the INDIA bloc of causing "significant harm" to the country.

"In their quest for power, they have divided the nation and torn apart its social fabric. They propose amending the Constitution to redirect OBC reservations to Muslims, a deeply conspiratorial move against the country that we cannot accept," he said.

"In West Bengal, Congress's ally Trinamool Congress attempted to allocate all OBC reservation to Muslims, a decision that the Calcutta High Court deemed 'unconstitutional'. The court affirmed that Muslims are not entitled to reservations in India," Adityanath said.

He warned that religion-based reservations could lay the foundation for further division of the country.

On this occasion, he sought votes for BJP's Maharajganj Lok Sabha seat nominee and Union minister Pankaj Chaudhary.

At a rally in Deoria Lok Sabha constituency, Adityanath said under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Lord Ram has been seated in the grand temple in Ayodhya, whereas the Congress used to question Lord Ram's existence and the SP had fired bullets at Ram 'bhakts' in Ayodhya.

He urged voters to support BJP candidate Shashank Mani Tripathi, the Lok Sabha candidate from Deoria.

He highlighted that the Modi government has chosen the son of Lieutenant General Prakash Mani Tripathi for this constituency, and emphasised that securing a victory for Tripathi would uplift the morale of the country's security forces.

While campaigning in the Bansgaon Lok Sabha seat for party candidate Kamlesh Paswan, Adityanath said under the Congress rule, mornings were dominated by news of corruption and evenings by terrorist blasts.

He termed the INDI Alliance as 'Ramdrohi,' accusing them of wanting to permit cow slaughter in the country, and warned that voting for them would mean partnering in this sin.

"I am campaigning nationwide, I have found there is widespread support for the Modi government with people echoing slogans of 'Fir ek baar Modi sarkar' and 'Abki baar, 400 paar'."

He stated that the five phases of the election have clearly shown that Ram 'bhakts' are on one side and 'Ramdrohis' on the other.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday opposed Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavithas appeal for bail in the money laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy case, saying the former Telangana chief ministers daughter would influence witnesses and destroy evidence. BRS leader K Kavitha leaves the Rouse Avenue Court after being produced by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Delhi liquor policy case in New Delhi on April 15 (PTI)

In its affidavit, ED underlined that the influence wielded by Kavitha was reflected in how Hyderabad-based businessman Arun Ramachandran Pillai retracted his November 2022 statement to the agency on the same day Kavitha was summoned by the agency on March 9, 2023.

It is bizarre that it took 118 days to realise that he (Pillai) was coerced or was there some intervening event which led to his retraction? It is apparent that the applicant herein wields considerable influence insofar as the first summons issued to her was on 7.03.2023 for her personal appearance on 9.03.2023, which clearly prompted Arun Pillai to file an application for retraction on the same day i.e. 9.03.2023, the federal agency told a bench of justice Swarana Kanta Sharma.

The agency also complained that Kavitha had been giving false evidence during her questioning, indulged in litigation to delay the probe and made unnecessary, redundant, and political statements in response to specific questions. Besides, it also accused her of deleting evidence from her mobile phone and actively participating in activities related to the proceeds of crime amounting to Rs. 292.8 crore.

Kavitha approached the high court after a city court rejected her bail application on May 6, ruling that her role prima facie appeared as that of a key conspirator in the collection and payment of upfront money to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) through co-accused to get favourable provisions in the excise policy. The court also rejected her contention that she was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) solely to deny her party a level playing field in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

In her appeal, Kavithas bail plea contended that her arrest on March 15 was orchestrated by members of the ruling party at the Centre with the active connivance of ED. However, ED refuted these claims, asserting that the investigation was conducted impartially and without political bias.

Kavitha has conspired with other people and was actively involved in the payment of kickbacks to the tune of Rs. 100 cr and then in establishing the money laundering ecosystem i.e. M/s Indo Spirits through her proxy which generated proceeds of crime of Rs. 192.8 Cr. By such acts, Smt K Kavitha is involved in various processes and activities relating to proceeds of crime (POC) to the tune of Rs. 292.8 Cr, EDs affidavit added.

The agency also contested Kavithas application for bail on health grounds, arguing that the medical documents provided were outdated and did not warrant bail. Moreover, the affidavit stated that Kavitha did not raise any medical complaints during her post-arrest medical examination.

Kavitha, initially arrested by ED on March 15 and by CBI on April 11, remains in judicial custody.

The court, after hearing submissions from Kavithas legal team, adjourned the matter to May 27 for further deliberation.

Kejriwal was also arrested in the case by ED on March 21 and was in judicial custody until he was given interim bail on May 10 for the election campaign, and has been ordered to return to custody on June 2.

On May 17, ED filed its first charge sheet naming Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as accused in the case. The nearly 200-page document, which is the eighth in a series of charge sheets filed by ED since November 2022, claimed that Kejriwal was directly involved in formulating the excise policy and demanded kickbacks from the South Group in exchange for awarding them favours.
In his youth, tales of Rameshwar Kadians sinewy muscles, feline-quick moves and arm-wringers on the dust bowl of the local akahda were legend. Today, at 63, his skin is crinkled with age, and bags of skin hang loose from his arms. Even his name has evaporated from local memory. He is just tau, the Haryanvi moniker for elderly uncle , and the familiar wooden stem of the hookah, the accompaniment of all taus, is always by his side. Across Haryana, it is now common to see clumps of people under large trees or in a courtyard, huddled over a phone. (HT photo)

The patriarch of a family of seven owns a television set but rarely turns it on anymore, instead regaling himself with a steady stream of clips on WhatsApp and videos in Haryanvi from YouTube. One stifling afternoon last week, a loud guffaw escaped his lips as a video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi grooving to a Bollywood song played on the phone. The unfamiliar sound of tau laughing brought his relatives out to the yard. Its probably not real, but I had never seen anything like it, Kadian said.

He isnt the only one. Across Haryana, it is now not uncommon to see clumps of people under large banyan trees or in the courtyards of an elders home, huddled over a phone in the evenings.

Such gatherings, often strictly cloistered by community or caste, are the primary lever of village social life. Now, the smartphone has replaced the hookah for pride of place. The conversations are animated but informal, as villagers discuss clips and YouTube videos, jokes and one-liners, often in local dialects that have narrower but deeper reach. These videos bring the world to our village. We learn about new events, see whats happening in the cities, and sometimes, we just laugh together, said Ram Singh, a farmer from Badli village.

Over the past few years , motivational speeches, jokes and spiritual one-liners have jostled for space with political content as turmoil over the three farm laws in 2020-21, protests seeking Jat reservations, and finally the Lok Sabha polls have upended the political terrain in the region. With the election season upon us, we are all listening to political videos and Youtubers, their agenda and what theyre saying, said Ram Singh. And were receiving video calls from candidates greeting us and talking to us by taking our names.

Such examples abound across India . As the worlds largest elections enter the home stretch, politicians are spending a chunk of their campaigning budgets on modes of outreach not tried at scale before  hiring companies to shoot videos that can then be used to generate calls and videos, personalised clips to be spread over WhatsApp, holograms that add some dazzle to a weary campaign, and deep fake videos sometimes of leaders long dead.

Some aspects of these campaigns are run from formal party war rooms  HT visited the BJP and Congress facilities focussed on Haryana to take stock  while others are outsourced to companies, and still others to little-known operators ruthlessly churning out manipulated clips on demand. But how effective are they? The high-stakes Sonepat constituency offered some clues.

YouTube sensation

In southern Haryana, there are mostly three categories of influencers. A cavernous wedding hall outside Jind is the makeshift home of two YouTubers from the first category  Mahinder Singh and Anil Belarkha  whose rise in local popularity is tied intimately with the churn in this belt. From 6am to 7pm every day, the two men brainstorm in a kitschy room, sharing space with a glittering silver replica of a unicorn and another of an elephant. Their YouTube channel  Apka Reporter (your reporter)  has scores of five-minute videos in local Haryanvi dialects, rooted characters such as a tau , and themes targeting the government on questions of price rise, farmer issues and community pride. We dont have any ties to any political party but find more traction on videos questioning the government on issues, said Mahinder Singh.

Belarkha said one bare-bones video of five minutes takes an hour to shoot, then a couple of hours to edit, and then another couple to sync audio and insert subtitles. The demand from rural areas is high, and so now we want to release a video every two days, instead of seven days.

They say Opposition politicians sometimes pick up their most viral videos but are frustrated at their haphazard operations. The BJP is far ahead in its coordination and signal boosting. The Opposition is too ragtag, said Mahinder Singh.

Himmat Saini exemplifies the second kind. A YouTuber, Saini, 32, has expanded his social media reach into a fledgling business. He now operates a team of 20 professionals  producers, content writers, editors, and graphic designers  to cater to the demands of various parties. His services include dubbing and editing videos and pictures of politicians, and tying up with influencers to help the clips gain traction.

His team comprises both full-time hires for the duration of the election season and freelancers . This period is particularly lucrative as political parties invest significant sums to maximise reach and visibility. Candidates rarely negotiate, they are focused on ensuring their presence is felt everywhere, he said.

The problem both these categories face, by their own admission, is that people arent always interested in overt political content. A video call from a politician is a novelty, but I am more interested in fitness tips and workout training videos. Thats what I watch everyday with my friends, said Abhishek Gohana, 22.

This is where the third class of influencers, exemplified by wrestler Ankit Baiyanpuria, come in. Baiyanpuria, a resident of Sonepat district, is wildly popular in the Haryana hinterland because of his rustic fitness videos. His stark and grainy vlogs always begin with the local greeting Ram Ram bhai Sara Ne, and are shorn of the sleek production and soft lighting of big-city influencers. Instead, he uses bamboo poles and mounds of bricks for his chin-ups and burpees, his background as the son of illiterate labourers and someone who worked as a waiter giving him organic connections with young people in small-town Haryana. Last October, he was picked to shoot a swachhata promotional campaign with Modi, the video viewed eight million times on Youtube and liked 8.6 million times on Instagram. Hes my idol and I can do anything to meet him once. I even joined the local BJP march. Hes one of us, hes not a neta. I trust what he does, said Gohana of Modi.

AI joins the fray

Darkness is descending over Gurugram, the suns last rays bouncing off hulking steel-and-glass facades that house the beating heart of Indias economy. Off an obscenely wide highway, a group of people is quietly filing out of a barebones office building. But the day is not ending for all of them. A second job awaits  the moonlighting aimed at financing a family vacation, fees for a better school, or emergency hospital bills.

Ankit Kumar is one of them. A package producer at a private agency, Kumar holds a second job where he, sitting alongside a team of 50 people, edits, manipulates or morphs videos. Its a painstaking process, beginning with the collection of raw footage, creating a rough cut based on the narrative sought by the client, removing bits that break the narrative, adding visual effects and overlays, adjusting the colour balance and grading, and treating the audio.

Most important is the audio work and lip synching, or using background music to drown out whats unnecessary, he said. Or simply whats inconvenient.

A flood of such edited clips have inundated southern Haryana in the weeks before the polls, including one where Modis purported voice is canvassing for the Congress. It can take up to 24 hours to make a video viral. We offer those services too. It can take 1.5 lakh depending on what the clients want, said the owner of the company, requesting anonymity.

This is also the kind of money one needs to shell out for AI-manufactured videos such as that of Modi dancing. Hyderabad-based Polymath Solutions, run by Divyendra Singh Jadoun, has been at the tip of this spear in India, churning out deepfakes of former Andhra Pradesh CM YS Rajasekhara Reddy, for example, campaigning for his son, Jagan Mohan Reddy.

Politicians walk in, get shot in various poses and deliver a set of pre-set campaign promises; the agency then uses data and AI tools to generate video clips, personalised messages, AI-generated videos, songs, CGI clips. To use AI for voice modulation costs a minimum of 5 lakh, and more elaborate video work takes up to 15 lakh.

We started getting requests from politicians from November 2023; many wanted to put the face of one leader on some controversial video or clone the voice of an opponent to say something they never had. Out of 200 requests, we could only take up 14 because of such ethics issues, said Jadoun.

What parties do

Across three large rooms inside a bungalow in Gurugrams Sector 38 is the BJPs digital war room for southern Haryana. Row upon row of desks is lined with laptops; fingers are flying across keyboards to craft tweets, posts, and videos. Large television screens mounted on the walls stream news channels and live feeds from rallies. Team members, around 300, are calling ground operatives, seeking approval for content or adjusting strategy.

A central command table, adorned with party flags and insignia, serves as a hub for senior strategists to review analytics and brainstorm on tactics. Arun Yadav, who heads BJPs digital strategy for Gurugram, said they have 20,000 workers running WhatsApp groups focussed on the region, We are aiming at first-time voters on InstagramOur team is posting 15-20 reels daily, he said.

To win the region, Yadav said the BJP has drafted digital influencers such as wrestlers Yogeshwar Dutt and Babita Phogat. We have a social media budget for 22 professionals such as content producers and graphic designers. There are also over 1,000 Youtubers in Gurugram and we keep a check on their content, he said.

The Congresss war room, in comparison, in old Gurugram, is more modest, comprising two teams of 14 young people each. The facility is a hive of coordination, as members discuss strategies to counter the BJPs narrative and promote their own. Calls for approvals are frequent, and team leads huddle over video conferences with state units.

We have hired photographers, photo editors, graphic designers and content writers to run the campaign. Our teams collect data across the district and the backend team shares it on social media. We generate more than 30 posts everyday and each post takes nearly 20 minutes to get ready and hit the platform, said Pankaj Dawar, the party in-charge.

The contrast is evident  the BJPs facility is better resourced and sleeker, drawing from the partys deep outreach to influencers, creators and gamers through a string of awards and events held over the past year. The Congresss is more bootstrapped, focussed on better use of limited resources and signal-boosting organic content created by YouTubers such as Singh.

The common thread -- using local dialects. Haryanvi dialect makes people feel close to me, like they know the creator and inhabit their world, said Ashish Malik, who gained popularity in Haryana towns by mimicking former Haryana deputy CM Dushyant Chautala. Many political parties approached me this election, but I have not agreed to anyone.

The poll battle

Long considered the heart of Jatland in Haryana, Sonepat is witnessing among the fiercest competitions this election. Jats make up a third of the electorate and every MP since independence, save three, have been from the community. Since 2014, though, the BJP has held the seat by crafting a careful coalition between non-Jat upper-castes and Dalits and playing on their fear of the dominant community. The effectiveness of this strategy was most evident in 2019, when the BJPs Ramesh Chander Kaushik defeated Congresss Jat stalwart Bhupinder Singh Hooda by 160,000 votes.

Five years later, though, things are in ferment. The 2020-21 farm protests and Jat reservation stir have soured the community towards former BJP ally, Jannayak Janata Party, and prompted four independent lawmakers to withdraw support from the government. The Nayab Singh Saini government has survived for now, but Congress leaders have smelt blood. In Sonepat, the party has named spiritual leader Satpal Brahmachari, a Hooda acolyte, hoping that the Brahmin candidate can hive off some of the BJPs upper-caste base, in addition to the Jat vote loyal to Hooda. Wary of anti-incumbency, the BJP has dropped its incumbent MP, and named another Brahmin, Mohan Lal Badoli. The Congress holds five of the nine assembly segments here, the BJP three and JJP one.

In Sonepats villages, this churn has created a new kind of evening routine. Shakuntala Devi, 66, a resident of Baiyanpur village, said women gather at night after their chores, sit together, and watch political videos on their phones, engaging in discussions about candidates. We discuss which candidate is better and whether we want change. These videos help us know better and be cautious, she said.

Three things are happening. Devi underlines the potential of digital campaigns to drive information and pique interest. In a competitive state such as Haryana, these can bestow important last-mile advantages to a candidate or party.

Two, in the hinterland, video watching is often a community experience. This means videos and clips  manipulated or not  can transcend the realm of the individual (the primary way in which they work in the west) and can help mobilise a community. In a province where caste and community weigh heavy on poll decisions, this is an important signal booster.

But can it prompt someone to change their mind? Kadian is not sure. Over the past two years, he has increasingly grown concerned about his communitys stature, first over the denial of quotas and then the turmoil over sexual harassment charges levelled by Jat women wrestlers against a BJP parliamentarian. It seems our pride is at stake, he said. He has learnt YouTube scrolls from his grandson. I enjoy these videos even when they seem fake, I show it to others too. But will I barter my communitys maan (esteem) just because a video told me to do so? he asked angrily.

Never.

(This is the 29th in a series of election reports from the field that look at national and local issues through an electoral lens.)
She doesnt want to be named  the costs are too high. The costs of everything are too high. For most of the last 45 years, her husband worked as a mason, earning around 15,000 a month. In a narrow, open-drained bylane of Dobh village on the outskirts of Rohtak, parts of her home have no ceiling, the rusting asbestos roof struggling to keep out the searing sun. She has three children  a son in his mid-twenties who leaves home early every day to do odd jobs, and two teenage daughters, who like their mother, struggle with the heat inside the one-room house. There is no money for even a second- hand refrigerator  the costs are too high. Thousands of people in Haryana took part in the January recruitment drive held for menial jobs in Israel. (HT file)

So in December 2023, when news swept through Dobh of job openings in another country with salaries upwards of a lakh a month, her husband applied enthusiastically. Israel kehte hai na (Its called Israel, isnt it)? she said haltingly, adjusting her sweat stained pallu across her forehead.

At first, she was excited. He told me lots of people in Haryana were applying. How did it matter if he goes to another state or a country? the 40-year-old said.

But then she heard why the other country wanted Indian workers. There was war and Israel was losing its menial workforce. Instantly, she was afraid. The thought of losing him was too much to bear. But he told me taking care of our daughters, getting them educated and married is too expensive. No matter the risk, we need the money. He warned me not to talk about Israel because nothing should go wrong, she said. He had to get on that plane. The costs are too high.

They arent the only ones. In December 2023, two months after fighting broke out in west Asia, the National Skill Development Corporation advertised close to 10,000 jobs to make up for a labour shortage in Israel. The demand was for plastering workers, ceramic tile workers, iron bending, and frame workers, to be filled by men who have passed Class 10.

By January 2024, the green lawns of Maharshi Dayanand University in Rohtak were teeming with people in a six-day recruitment drive. District officials said 8,199 people applied, and 530 were selected in the first tranche.

In many ways, those six days in Rohtak told a story of aspiration; of people risking the unpredictability of war to better the lives of their families. But under that veneer lurked another reason that drove this migration, a factor that is now at the centre of the campaign in Haryana, and indeed across India  jobs.

Unemployement is one of the central themes in Rohtak

Unemployment and the youth

One Monday morning, five friends are sitting on a bench under a tree at the MDU campus in Rohtak. Four already have MA degrees, graduating between 2019 and 2021, and one of them, Anil Kathurwal, is now pursuing a PhD in politics. What drove his decision was academic interest, he said. But a sheepish smile betrays another factor. This group of five always wanted to be teachers. That opportunity hasnt arisen in five years, and Kathurwal couldnt wait any longer.

Deepti Kumari, in her early twenties, is the angriest. She completed a Masters degree in English in 2019, and has been waiting for the entrance test for assistant professorship, or other teaching roles. In every home in Haryana, there is pride when someone has a government job. But for the past five years, there have been no state government vacancies. There are private colleges, but the salaries are so low, and the quality so poor, that they are barely an option, she said.

Retired professor Anant Ram says the Haryana government has only conducted a common entrance test (CET) to recruit Class 3 and 4 employees once in five years. The recruitment of Class 3 posts were challenged in the high court and is pending still. Trained graduate and post graduate teacher tests are either delayed or challenged in courts, and there is widespread frustration, he said.

Haryanas headline unemployment rate in the 2022-23 Periodic Labour Force Survey(PLFS) was 6.1%, nearly double the all-India unemployment rate of 3.2%. But this alone does not adequately capture the problem. One of the trends in post-pandemic India, data shows, has been of the unemployed turning to unpaid work in family enterprises, considered self-employment by PLFS. But in Haryana, this has been relatively steady: 14% in 2018-19 and 14.3% in 2022-23, essentially suggesting that the jobless in the state are not turning to unpaid work.

Kathurwal, his fingers fidgeting with the keys of a motorcycle, nods in agreement, but wants to broaden the argument. Across the state, he says, there is this powerful voice of joblessness that has reared its head ahead of elections, but it is rooted not just in exam delays but the attitude of the government.

If you wake up early in our villages or cities, you will find thousands of young men running, training to join the police or the Army. But now, people only have the stability of four years under the Agniveer scheme. Look at all the campaign speeches of the BJP. They dont talk about employment or jobs at all, Kathurwal said.

For all five people  a mix of Scheduled Caste, Gujjar and Jat youngsters  unemployment is the primary issue in the Lok Sabha campaign. But Anant Ram has a word of caution for any political analysis that predicts a wave of anger hurting the incumbent. The key question is how many of these people will put unemployment over caste when they go to vote on June 25, he said.

The Politics

Its 4.30 pm, and in the village of Dighal, 25km from Rohtak, Deepender Hooda has no time to get out of the car. He has 18 small meetings scheduled, and this is only the tenth. His frame juts out from within the sunroof of a white Toyota Land Cruiser, his hands either clasped together or accepting gifts. Some bring a framed picture, some a turban; there is even an impressively large ox. When he begins speaking, his voice carries more than a hint of urgency. A parliamentarian is known by only two things, he says, kaam aur acharan (work and behaviour), and Rohtak has known the Hoodas for decades. He speaks of the BJP ignoring farmers, and of insulting women wrestlers in Delhi. He lingers on the question of unemployment, promising government jobs. He says that the Congress victory in the assembly elections in late 2024, will begin from Rohtak. But most importantly, when he asks the crowd to raise their hands in support, he calls them his brothers from all 36 communities.

In many ways, Rohtak is a microcosm of Haryanas politics. There have been 18 Lok Sabha elections in the constituency, barely a two-hour drive from Delhi, and the Congress has won 11. It is from here that Ranbir Singh Hooda won twice, and then his son Bhupinder Singh Hooda -- who went on to become chief minister -- beat former deputy PM Devi Lal in three consecutive polls in 1991, 1996 and 1998.

Deepender Hooda has also been MP of Rohtak three times, and is currently a Rajya Sabha member. Crucially, Jats dominate both the social and political landscape; there are 660,000 voters from that community alone. But there are also 155,000 Brahmins, 135,000 Punjabis , 305,000 scheduled castes and 500,000 backward voters.

And these non-Jat communities are key, both to Rohtak, and Haryana.

In 2014, the BJP won the Haryana assembly elections

The dynamics

In 2014, the BJP won the assembly elections, riding on both its Lok Sabha triumph and a clever caste calculus. For decades, the Jats controlled politics, resources and society, causing resentment among others. The BJP posited the elections as Jat versus non-Jat, and appointed Manohar Lal Khattar as CM, the first Punjabi to rise to the position. When it sought to replace him earlier this year, fire-proofing themselves from ostensible anti-incumbency, it picked Nayab Singh Saini, another non-Jat. In Haryanas villages, they call the strategy, paitees bata ek. (35 communities versus one).

This division permeated strongholds that the Congress once thought impenetrable. In 2019, Deepender Hooda lost Rohtak to the BJPs Arvind Sharma, a surgeon by profession, and Brahmin by caste. Congress said Hoodas biggest loss came from Kosli assembly segment, which has an abundance of Ahirs, an OBC community.

It is this cleavage that is still central to the BJPs campaign, even when responding to questions on unemployment.

Hooda always says that he was defeated by malpractice. This time, he will suffer a defeat with an even bigger margin. I dont believe Agnipath is an issue as youngsters will get even better jobs after their four year experience. In our time, the people selected are poor and deprived, while during the Hooda regime, Congress leaders picked people. The youth of Haryana knows that if the Congress returns to power, their tactics of giving jobs to their loved ones will return, said Arvind Sharma.

Among the young men struggling to get a glimpse of Deepender Hooda, 23-year-old Amit Kumar, a Valmiki, raised his hand when the Congress scion talked of unemployment. But once the convoy left, he said the choice wasnt so simple.

I may still vote for the Congress because I have no job. But my friends in the community will not. When the Jats come to power, they take over everything, talk like they own everything. We have no work, but under the BJP, the police or the administration treats us with some respect, he said.

But Congresss Jhajjhar lawmaker Geeta Bhukkal said that unemployment is so pervasive that it will single-handedly help the Congress regain Lok Sabha seats. Everywhere you look, deserving candidates have not made it to government jobs, also because of paper leaks. Officers have been held taking bribes, she said.

Rohtak-based political commentator Satish Tyagi said the results in Rohtak could be defining for both the Lok Sabha and assembly polls later in the year. This is a litmus test for Modis popularity. If Deepender wins, Hoodas stature in the party rises further. But if he loses, it will become clear that the BJPs caste-based strategy will be used in the assembly polls too, he said.

Back in Dobh, in the peeling home of the traveller to Israel, his wife waves away any questions around caste, or the elections. Her mind has not stopped swirling, her voice has become hoarse.

When India and Pakistan go to war, its not as if there is fighting here in Haryana, she had thought. But her younger daughter, a notebook in her hand, has just explained the geography of Israel to her.

When he comes home, Ill fight with him again. Ill get my mother to call him and forbid him, she said firmly. But immediately, there is doubt. He will ask her that one question. To which, she has no answer. Yaha naukri hai? (Are there jobs here?)

(This is the 30th in a series of election reports from the field that look at national and local issues through an electoral lens.)
Nagpur, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday hit out at the opposition, saying Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, when he was the chief minister, did nothing to move factories from Dombivili MIDC, where an explosion at a chemical plant killed nine people. Fadnavis slams oppn, says Uddhav did nothing to move factories from Dombivli

Speaking to reporters at Nagpur airport, Fadnavis said the Mahayuti government will work towards finding alternative sites for these factories.

Earlier in the day, state Congress chief Nana Patole slammed the state government over the blast, claiming that the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government had ordered to shut the chemical plant, but it was revived under the present regime.

A boiler exploded at Amudan Chemicals, located in Phase 2 of Dombivli MIDC on Thursday afternoon. Nine persons died, while 64 others, including women working in the vicinity, were injured in the incident.

"Any industry cannot be moved in a day, and for many years, discussions were on to move these factories. However, Uddhav Thackeray has not done anything in this regard," the deputy chief minister said.

Serious cognisance should be taken regarding this incident, and alternative sites must be given to factories, and the state government will work towards this, he said.

Patole claimed that the MVA government had issued orders to shut down the factory in Dombivli, but it was permitted to operate again when the Mahayuti government came to power.

He accused the state government of corruption and said it was responsible for the loss of innocent lives.

The Congress leader further alleged that Fadnavis and the "khokhe" government tarnished the image of Maharashtra, and they will get a sound reply when the results of the Lok Sabha elections are declared on June 4.

When asked about the MVA's protests regarding the Pune car accident in which a 17-year-old boy allegedly fatally ran over two software engineers, Fadnavis said the opposition was trying to politicise the issue.

The deputy chief minister said the police took action transparently and approached the higher courts against the Juvenile Justice Board's decision to grant the teen bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay.

For the first time, the father of a juvenile has been arrested, and hence, strict action has been taken, he said.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
In the Jat-dominated Hisar Lok Sabha seat, three members of the influential Devi Lals family are fighting against each other.

The feuding candidates include former deputy prime minister Devi Lals son Ranjit Chautala, who is fighting on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket, and two grand daughters-in-law, Sunaina Chautala of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Naina Chautala of the INLDs offshoot Jannayak Janata Party (JJP).

The fourth candidate and former Hisar MP, Congress Jai Parkash, is not related to Devi Lal but is considered to be his political protege.

Hisar is under the spotlight as it remains a key hub of the farmers' protest against the three farm laws, which were repealed after the first round of protests.

The JJP candidate Naina Chautala is the daughter-in-law of Devi Lal's eldest son OP Chautala; Sunaina Chautala is the daughter-in-law of his second son Pratap Singh Chautala.

Naina had won assembly elections from Dabwali in 2014 on INLDs ticket and Badhra in Charkhi Dadri district as JJP candidate in 2019. She is contesting her first Lok Sabha election.

Devi Lals son Ranjit Chautala had won the 2019 assembly polls from Rania's seat in Sirsa as an independent after Congress denied him a ticket and he later supported the BJP government led by Manohar Lal Khattar. He won the election after a gap of 32 years. He was inducted into the cabinet and held power and jail ministries from 2019 until now. He won his first assembly poll in 1987 from the erstwhile Rori assembly seat and has served as the agriculture minister in Haryana.

Hours after joining the BJP, the party fielded him from Hisar by ignoring other candidates like former Hisar MP Kuldeep Bishnoi, son of former Haryana chief minister Bhajan Lal and former Haryana finance minister Captain Abhimanyu. Ranjit served as a member of the upper house from 1990 to 1992.

Sunaina Chautala, the general secretary of INLDs women wing is contesting her first Lok Sabha poll. She had won the student body polls from FC College in Hisar in 1994. Her husband Ravi Chautala had unsuccessfully contested assembly polls.

The Congress party candidate Jai Prakash claims to be the true torch-bearer of the Devi Lal legacy.

Better known as JP, he headed the green brigade (youths wearing green t-shirts) dispatched by Devi Lal in 1988 to support former prime minister VP Singh against the Congress party in Allahabad. He won the Hisar Lok Sabha seat on three occasions but from different parties every time. He also served as Barwala MLA on Congresss ticket and as an independent from Kalayat in Kaithal in 2014. He had quit the party in 2014 after the party denied him a ticket but ahead of the 2019 polls, Bhupinder Singh Hooda inducted him into the fold.

The Congress had last won the Hisar seat in 2004 when Parkash secured victory from the constituency. He lost his security deposit from Hisar in the 2009 and 2014 general polls from Hisar. In the previous polls in 2019, Congress candidate Bhavya Bishnoi, who is now BJP MLA from Adampur, also lost his security.

Naina Chautalas woman empowerment pitch

The first woman to enter politics from the Chautala clan, JJPs Naina Chautala has made women empowerment her poll plank. Canvassing in Hisar citys Jawahar Nagar in the scorching heat, Naina mingled with the women volunteers who reached there to welcome her, wearing green dupattas. Naina told them that though she had entered politics after her husband was incarcerated, she wanted to highlight womens issues. Women are not safe in Haryana, she says, citing the recent attack on her cavalcade during campaigning in Rojkhera village in Uchana. She then trains gun on the Congress candidate JP and blames him for the attack.

Our party ensured 50% reservations for women in Panchayati Raj. We are in deep pain that we could not fulfil the promise of giving 5,100 per month pension to our elderly. Girls dropout rate (from schools) is also a big concern, she said.

She also spoke of the development that her son brought to the state. Due to Dushyants efforts, an airport construction is underway in Hisar. People can board flights from here in the future. Some people taunt us, saying that it is not an international airport. I want to tell them humbly that at least we have taken the initiative, we will have international flights in the future, the JJP leader said.

Ranjit Chautala pins hopes on Modi magic, Centres works

Ranjit Singh Chautala, 79, received a warm welcome from locals after he reached Budana village in Hisar. Addressing the public, he spoke of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governments works, including the scrapping of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, the construction of Ram temple and giving a befitting reply to Pakistan, besides cleaning up the Indian economy. He, then, takes on the Congress, stating that all they care about is elevating the Gandhi family scion.

This is an election to elect a prime minister, you have to decide whether Modi is better for the nation or Rahul Gandhi. Congress leaders are quitting the party because they know the party will be wiped off after these elections. Sonia Gandhis sole aim is to make her son Rahul the PM. In Haryana, Bhupinder Singh Hooda wants to make his own son the chief minister. These ambitions will never be fulfilled as their sons lack merit, Ranjit said.

Sunaina banks on rivals anti-incumbency troubles

Meanwhile, INLDs Sunaina Chautalas campaign hinges on the anti-incumbency troubles of her rivals from BJP and JJP.

Naina and Ranjit both supported the BJP government which used batons on farmers and women wrestlers. The duo enjoyed power when the wrestlers and farmers were being dragged (on the streets) by the police, she said.

She also spoke of development issues. Hisar has a shortage of doctors in government hospitals and teachers in schools. Teachers are busy with clerical work and students education is being affected. In many villages, people bring tankers to get drinking water. The BJP government has failed to address local issues, she said.

Jai Parkash takes on the clan members, hits out Modi govt

Up against three members of the Devi Lal clan, Congress candidate Jai Parkash, who represented the Hisar Lok Sabha seat thrice, says that people are fed up with Modis rule.

All their promises turned out to be lies be it the promise of giving two crore jobs a year or doubling farmers income. The BJP government in Haryana is just a portal Sarkar (reference to property ID, parivar pehchan patra) due to which people are facing problems, he said.

The Haryana government has failed to recruit youths through the common entrance test (CET) in five years. Aap muje yahan se jeta kr Hooda sahab k hath majbut kro (Vote for me and give more power to Hooda). We will form the next government in Haryana under Bhupinder Singh Hoodas leadership, he said.

Prakash also took on the Chautala clan members, accusing them of spoiling Devi Lals name.

Both Ranjit and JJP leaders, including Naina and her family, have not followed Devi Lals principles. They spoiled his name. We are fighting to fulfil his aspirations. There is a Congress wave in Haryana and people will oust BJP from power, he said.

The sentiment on ground

For the people of Hisar, the main election issues are jobs, the Agniveer scheme, issues related to farming, lack of civic amenities such as the availability of potable water and the crime rate.

Telu Ram, 59, who owns a six-acre of land at Bhaglana village in Hisars Narnaund, said: Both BJP and Congress government are the same in terms of the work they did. But the BJP has attacked our prestige by thrashing farmers.

We will vote for the Congress, not because of Jai Prakash but because of Bhupinder Singh Hooda. Two seats in Haryana -- Rohtak and Hisar, are important. The farmers community wants Congress to win from here so we can send out a strong message to the BJP and their top leadership. Inhone izzat par war kiya hai (BJP attacked our honour and prestige). Last time, we had voted for Dushyant but he had cheated with our mandate by extending support to the BJP, he added.

Ramesh Kumar, a resident of Kirtan village, said, The BJP government has not released crop compensation for two years. The prices of seeds, fertilisers, diesel have soared but the crop prices were not hiked accordingly. The cost of the feed given to buffaloes and cows also increased but milk prices werent hiked. Farmers and labourers are in a miserable condition.

The BJP and Congress nominees seem to be tied in a neck-and-neck contest in the constituency with the saffron party set to do well in urban areas while the Congress likely to fare better in rural areas.

According to political experts, factionalism within the Congress and BJP can damage the prospects of their candidates.

In BJP, former finance minister Captain Abhimanyu, Kuldeep Bishnoi and Ranbir Gangwa are unhappy. In the Congress, former Union minister Birender Singh and workers of Kumari Selja are said to be unhappy with the party candidate. BJP is facing anti-incumbency and booth management is a problem for the Congress, said a political expert who asked not to be named.

Rajendra Sharma, head, department of Political Science at Rohtaks Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), said the three members of the Devi Lal family are contesting to save their  and their familys  eroding influence in the constituency.

The INLD and JJP candidates are not so impressive on the ground. There is a direct fight between Ranjit Chautala of the BJP and Congress nominee Jai Parkash. Hisar was the epicentre of the farmers stir along with Jind and people in rural areas are fed up with the BJP-JJP and Congress is their only hope. The Jats particularly in Hisar are looking at Bhupinder Singh Hooda and not just at Parkash, he said.

Another political expert Anant Ram, a retired political science professor from Bhiwani, said that the voters in Hisar are disgruntled with both the BJP and JJP as their leaders were not responsive during the farmers stir.

The people are angry with Dushyant for supporting the BJP after it fell short of majority and supporting the erstwhile three farmers laws, which are repealed now. Even his father Ajay Chautala, who heads the party had claimed that laws are not made to take it back and he even called farmers stir a disease and people are questioning him and other leaders for their remarks, Ram said.

Hisar, which was known as a stronghold for Chautala and Bhajan Lal family seems to be preferring Hooda now because the rural voters have no choice except him who can defeat the BJP. The ruling party is facing huge anti-incumbency in rural areas and in cities BJP will perform better, he said.

Out of the nine assemblies in Hisar, the BJP has MLAs in five segments -- Nalwa, Adampur, Hisar, Bawani Khera and Hansi. The JJP represents Uchana, Narnaund, Uklana and Barwala. The Congress has no MLA in the constituency.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, BJPs Brijendra Singh had won from this seat and Congress had last won Hisar in 2004 when Jai Parkash was elected to the lower house.
California Republican Convention-goers browse stands promoting Republican and Christian values in Burlingame on May 18. San Francisco GOP leaders say conservative voters could have an outsize impact on the mayors race. Manuel Orbegozo/Special to the Chronicle

Only 7% of San Franciscos registered voters are Republicans, but the citys top GOP leaders say the party is poised to play an outsize role in deciding who the citys next mayor will be by doing something that may appear mind-blowing: endorse a Democrat.

Even if a smattering of the citys 38,069 registered Republicans follow the partys endorsement, that could make a difference in whats expected to be a tight race between five leading Democrats in an election where turnout is expected to be over 80%.

The question for all of them: Is the endorsement worth it?

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In other words, if a Democrat were to receive a GOP nod, would the potential votes be worth the blowback they would receive from members of their own party? Yet theres something to be gained from such a nod for both Republicans and Democrats.

Thats the dirty little secret in this town, said political consultant Jim Stearns, who is advising Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskins campaign. The ace-in-the-hole for moderate Democrats are usually Republicans. They can provide the margin of victory.

And for Republicans, backing a Democrat can mean electing the lesser of five evils in a town where a Los Angeles Dodger would have a better shot at winning. George Christopher was San Franciscos last Republican mayor, and he left office in 1964.

Its a dilemma that other county-level Republican Party organizations and business groups across the state face in every election in California, which is full of Democrat-on-Democrat races: Do they stay away from Democratic candidates on principle, or hold their nose and decide its more important to have some semblance of a say in whos running things?

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In deep blue San Francisco, those decisions are particularly fraught. However, it wouldnt be the first time that San Francisco Republicans endorsed a Democrat.

In 1999, the San Francisco Republican Party got blasted by statewide conservatives for endorsing Mayor Willie Brown for reelection over Board of Supervisors President Tom Ammiano in a runoff election in the days before ranked choice voting was implemented. The conservative California Republican Assembly fumed that Brown represents a threat to the conservative principles of the Republican Party.

Countered the San Francisco GOP: not as much of a threat as Ammiano.

It is in that spirit that both the San Francisco Republican Party and the more moderate Republicans in the ascendant Briones Society group expect to endorse a Democrat for mayor as part of a ranked-choice ballot.

Its a nonpartisan race, said John Dennis, chair of the San Francisco Republican Party. Were not bound to endorse a Republican.

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Same goes for the Briones Society, which backed a more moderate slate of Republicans that secured 17 of the 25 seats on the San Francisco Republican County Central Committee. They will not take office until after the election, however.

Briones Society co-founder Jay Donde said he anticipates the group will back one of the Democratic candidates, and that it will announce its endorsements sometime in July.

Its really, really important that the candidates appreciate how competitive this race is going to be, and how important each and every single vote will be, Donde said.

Even from Republicans.

There are Republicans running for mayor, most notably Ellen Lee Zhao, an outspoken supporter of Donald Trump who attended the Jan. 6, 2021, Trump rally in Washington before the attack on the Capitol. Republican leaders believe they will have more influence in shaping the mayors race, however, by backing someone with a more realistic chance to win. Zhao has run unsuccessfully for mayor before.

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Neither Dennis nor Donde would speculate on which Democrats their fellow Republicans would support. But it is unlikely to be one one of the two more left-leaning candidates in the race, Peskin or San Francisco Supervisor Ahsha Safai.

I think we can be honest with each other that Peskin and Safai will have an uphill battle to gain either the Briones Societys or the Republican Partys endorsement, Donde said.

No offense taken from Peskins camp. He wouldnt want it.

Absolutely not, Stearns said. We will neither seek nor accept the endorsement.

Safais response on whether he would accept either endorsement: Unequivocally, no, said campaign adviser Derek Jansen. Not from any organization that endorses and enables Donald Trump.

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And thats the challenge for Republicans. Whoever gets their endorsement will undoubtedly get blasted by the other campaigns.

Donde conceded that theres still a cost-benefit analysis (with a GOP endorsement). But I would say that that is true with a number of endorsements.

Donde encouraged who he called the more moderate candidates in the race, Mayor London Breed, former interim Mayor Mark Farrell and nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie, to demonstrate the moral courage necessary to reach out to Republicans and say, Hey, we disagree on a lot of things. And some of those things are fundamental. And I think you guys are crazy. And you guys think Im crazy, but we need to talk. And we need to see where we can find common ground or else were going to end up in a really bad situation with a candidate in the mayoral office that none of us want.

That could be a tough ask, even from the more moderate candidates. None would say theyre reaching out to Republicans.

Im a proud lifelong Democrat, so its not an endorsement Im seeking, Lurie said. But my campaign has always been about bringing people into the fold, not pushing them away. I welcome the support of every San Franciscan who is committed to restoring safety, ending homelessness and shutting down open-air drug markets. Thats not partisan. Its common sense.

Breed spokesman Joe Arellano said Breed vehemently disagrees with many aspects of the Republican Partys platform. She has not sought the endorsement of the Republican Party, nor will she. But her job is to be a mayor for everyone and she will continue to work with all residents of San Francisco who care about this city, regardless of their political affiliation.

Farrell, the most moderate of the top mayoral candidates, would not actively seek or accept the endorsement,said Farrell campaign manager Jade Tu.

Mark is a born-and-raised San Franciscan, a lifelong Democrat, and will be a mayor that represents all San Franciscans and our shared values that we hold dear as a city. Mark is running to drastically improve public safety and our street conditions while leading with compassion and dignity for those experiencing homelessness and suffering from addiction, Tu said.

Farrell has been endorsed by Republicans before. Dennis told KQED last week that people in San Francisco politically wouldnt know Mark Farrell if it wasnt for Republicans. We endorsed him in 2010 for supervisor over the more left-leaning Janet Reilly.
Indias benchmark stock market indices Sensex and Nifty touched historic highs at close of trading Thursday, 75,418 and 22,967 respectively, driven by Wednesdays announcement of a generous transfer by RBI to government that can boost the latters spending ability (and control the fiscal deficit). The new logo of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building is seen in Mumbai.(REUTERS FILE PHOTO)

Since the elections were announced on March 16 (a Saturday, so it makes sense to look at the previous Fridays close), the Sensex has risen from 72643.42 to 75418.04, a gain of 3.82%.

How does this compare with previous election cycles?

Stock markets, by nature, are heavily influenced by domestic and international events. And considering the far-reaching consequences of Lok Sabha elections, they too are considered to have significant influence over the markets. But just how much impact can election results have on the Indian stock market?

To understand this, HT analysed historical markets data to understand how they reacted during the past eight Lok Sabha elections.

In the past, markets have more often than not have had muted response to results on the day of the counting itself. To be clear, on instances where the counting fell on a market holiday, the very next trading day was considered for this analysis. The 2004 and 2009 Lok Sabha elections are the only two instances since 1991 when the markets reacted strongly to an election result on the counting day itself, as can be seen from Chart 1. While the market crashed in 2004, it soared in 2009.

To be sure, apart from 2004, markets also saw a dip as results were announced in 2019. One explanation for this would be that the BJP-led NDAs victory was already factored in by the markets and weakness in larger economic fundamentals led to investors booking profits as the results were announced, leading to a fall in market prices.

The crash in 2004 occurred on the back of the unexpected victory of Congress-led-UPA, defying expectations of most analysts. The markets went down further over the next few trading days as it became clear that the newly formed coalition government would be supported by left parties as well. It took the markets around six months to return to levels seen prior to the election cycle. To be sure, the 2004 elections are also the only instance in which markets saw a downfall during the election cycle. Election cycle here refers to the period between announcement of schedule for elections by the Election Commission and counting day.

However, the very next elections in 2009, in which the UPA retained power, saw the markets rallying during the election cycle as well as on the first trading day after results were declared. The boost in market sentiments during this period was also aided by Indias swift recovery from the 2008 financial crisis, driven largely by a fiscal stimulus announced by the government.

Market performance post elections

While the movement of markets on results day signal the immediate sentiments of the markets, the bigger impact on wealth of investors is their performance after the elections, and how stocks react to policies introduced by the new government. Out of the eight elections analysed by HT, in four, the markets declined a year from the declaration of results, as can be seen from chart 3.

To be sure, out of the four instances where markets saw a decline in the year after elections, three were during the 1996-99 period, which was marked by instability in Indian politics. Meanwhile, the decline in markets a year after the 2019 elections--the only other similar instance where markets dipped--was due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which resulted in the crash of stock markets across the world.

The bigger message from this analysis is that, apart from periods of extreme political instability or external factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the Indian markets have provided good returns to investors. The period after 1991 elections saw the highest such gains for investors as the PV Narasimha Rao-led government initiated the liberalisation of the countrys economy. Even after the 2004 elections, which saw the markets crashing right after results were declared, they rallied within a couple of quarters on the back of robust GDP growth and a rise in foreign investments.
National security advisor Ajit Doval on Friday said that India would have progressed at a much faster pace if the borders had been more secured, defined and not in an adversarial dispossesion.



In the foreseeable future, I don't think our borders are going to be as secure as we will require for our fast economic growth. So, the responsibility on border guarding forces has become very, very heavy. They have got to remain on alert 24X7 in perpetuity. They have got to see that our national interests and country are protected, Doval was quoted by PTI as saying during his address at the Rustamji Memorial Lecture organised by the Border Security Force (BSF) on its 21st investiture ceremony.



ALSO READ: NSA Ajit Doval raises Sikh radicalisation concerns with UK counterpart National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval addresses the gathering during the Border Security Force (BSF) Investiture Ceremony and Rustamji Memorial Lecture, at Vigyan Bhawan, in New Delhi,(PTI)

Doval added,"Jameen par jo kabja hai wo apna hai, baki to sab adalat aur kachehri ka kaam hai, usse farak nahi padta (The land which is in our possession is ours, the rest is the matter of courts and that is immaterial)."

The NSA asserted that the government paid very high attention to border security in the last 10 years and the country's comprehensive national power has grown immensely.

The national security advisor said India is changing very fast and, in the next 10 years, "we will be a USD 10 trillion economy and the third largest economy" that he called a "major achievement".



Doval added that the country will have one of the largest workforces and will be a hub of high-technology artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing and various other areas of defence and security manufacturing.



ALSO READ: NSA Ajit Doval explains why Indian civilisation is one of oldest and continuous

The country, which was an importer of arms, exported USD 2.5 billion worth of arms until March 31, emerging as a big exporter because of the government's policy of self-reliance and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Doval added.

In this changing India, prosperity guarantees security to some extent and increases vulnerability in much larger areas, he said.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday responded to a question regarding the portrayal of India in Western media, saying that just like a Khan Market Gang in India, there also exists a global extension of it an International Khan Market Gang. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.(ANI)

The foreign minister made the remarks during an interview with news agency ANI. Follow full coverage of the 2024 Lok Sabha election here.c

"In the country today, there is a certain thought process, or entitlement process for which the metaphor of 'Khan Market Gang' is a very good description. I want to tell you there is an international Khan Market Gang as well," Jaishankar told ANI.

"These are people who are sort of linked, you know, to the entitled people out here. They are socially comfortable with them. They know them. They feel like they advance similar viewpoints. They are essentially a kind of an elitist, left-lib thought process. So there's a symbiotic relationship between the two," he added.

Further taking a swipe, he said that when the sales of 'domestic Khan Market' are down, the International Khan Market gives support.

"When the sales are down in the domestic Khan Market, the International Khan Market gang feels like, I need to pep up these guys and give them support and you can actually see which stories they play up, how do they slant things and in previous elections perhaps even in this one they've actually openly endorsed parties and will openly endorse leaders and openly said that this party or this leader is bad for India," the foreign minister said, according to ANI.

Jaishankar also alleged that a very clear attempt is being made to influence the direction of Indian politics and the choices of Indian voters.

A very clear attempt being made to influence the direction of Indian politics and the choices of the Indian voter. It peaks at election time, but it continues even after that, he said.

All these rankings that you get, what do you think they are? They are all an attempt to demoralise you, delegitimise you, to kind of shape that all these things are wrong with India because India is going to give them a result they don't like.
In a similar case to the Pune Porsche accident, a 15-year-old boy was detained by the Kanpur Police and sent to a juvenile home for mowing down and killing 2 people with his father's car in October 2023, officials said on Thursday. Months after the accident, the accused boy recently injured four more people in the city's Barra area. Kanpur teen sent to juvenile home after killing 2 in hit-and-run (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

This case emerged days after a 17-year-old boy in Pune allegedly killed two IT professionals while driving his father's Porsche. The teen got bail less than a day after his arrest, sparking a national outrage and demand for a deeper probe into the matter.

The 15-year-old boy in Kanpur, who allegedly mowed down two people, is the son of a prominent doctor in the city. According to reports, a probe was also initiated against a section of the local police over their alleged inaction in the case.

Briefing reporters, the additional commissioner of police (Law and Order), Harish Chandra, said a departmental inquiry has been launched over the alleged delay in the filing of the chargesheet against the accused teen and acting against him. It was further alleged that the accused minor was allowed to roam free despite direct involvement in two hit-and-run cases.

The ACP said, On October 27, 2023, a case was registered that a car was involved in a hit-and-run incident in which two persons lost their lives. The case was registered under IPC Section 304 A, and further investigation determined that a minor was behind the wheel of the vehicle. The accused was detained and produced before the Juvenile Justice Board on May 21, this year. The Board committed him to a juvenile correctional centre.

Meanwhile, in the Pune hit-and-run case, the police questioned the accused teenager's grandfather, driver and friend to corroborate the facts of the accident. A forensic team also examined the Porsche car, which was allegedly being driven by the teenager at the time of the accident.

After days of massive outrage over his bail in the case, the teenager was sent to the observation home by the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) on Wednesday.

His father was also arrested. Two owners of bars in Pune were arrested in the case for serving liquor to the boy.

(With inputs from ANI, PTI)
Ara: Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday hit out at Lalu Prasad Yadav, saying that the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief never worked for the welfare of the backward class nor the people belonging to his caste Yadav. Union home minister Amit Shah addressed a rally in Bihar on Friday (Twitter/@BJP4Bihar)

Shah was addressing a rally in Ara district in favour of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and Union minister R K Singh.

He also hit out at the Congress party and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee for their approach to reservations, alleging that they sought to dilute the benefits meant for backward castes.

The Congress party, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Mamta Banerjee want to steal reservation of backward classes. In Karnataka, they gave 5% reservation to Muslims, in Hyderabad again 4% reservation to Muslims and Mamta Banerjee left 180 castes, Shad said on Friday.

While appealing to people to vote for the BJP, Shah said, As long as [Prime Minister] Narendra Modi is there, we will not let anyone touch the reservation of the Dalits, Adivasis and the backward classes. If you help BJP cross the 400 mark, we will revoke the Muslim reservation and give it to the backward classes.

Further targeting Lalu Yadav, Shah said that if he, as part of an arrogant INDIA bloc, comes to power, jungle raj, abduction and gang war will return to Bihar.

People dont want the return of jungle raj, gang war and abduction industry in Bihar.He (Lalu Yadav) made his two sons ministers and sent one daughter to Rajya Sabha and another to contest the Lok Sabha. He made his wife the chief minister of Bihar. He promotes only his sons and daughter, Shah alleged.

The home minister further warned the people of the return of Naxalism in the state. If CPI-ML [Communist Party of India (MarxistLeninist) Liberation] wins by mistake, Naxalism will again start to flourish here, he said while recalling the earlier days (decade of the 90s) when Ara witnessed the Naxal movement.

CPI-MLs Sudama Prasad is the INDIA blocs candidate from Ara.

Such a situation should not be repeated. Narendra Modi-led government has wiped out Naxalism from different states of the country. In the third term the government will wipe out Naxal movements in Chhattisgarh too, Shah said.

Responding to Shahs comments, speaking to media persons, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, Amit Shah only comes to make hatred trend in Bihar. He lies. The people of Bihar will not fall for his lies. Bihar will not follow the trend of lies and hatred, Bihar will follow the trend of jobs... What have they done for Bihar in the last 10 years?

Ara will go to polls in the seventh phase on June 1. The counting of votes will take place in June 4.
Lok Sabha Election 2024 Highlights: Following the completion of voting in five phases of the Lok Sabha elections on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20, attention now shifts to the sixth phase scheduled for May 25. This phase encompasses 58 Lok Sabha constituencies across 8 states and Union Territories. Bihar (8 seats), Haryana (all 10 seats), Jammu and Kashmir (1 seat), Jharkhand (4 seats), Delhi (all 7 seats), Odisha (6 seats), Uttar Pradesh (14 seats), and West Bengal (8 seats) will go for voting....Read More

The Election Commission of India (ECI) said that 889 candidates are contesting from these eight States and Union Territories. The national capital, with its seven parliamentary seats, is gearing up for polling. Vote counting is slated for June 4.

Latest election highlights

- Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address poll rallies in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab today. He will begin with Shimla and then proceed to Mandi. In this key constituency, Mandi, the BJP has fielded actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut against Congress candidate Vikramaditya Singh, which will go for polls during the final phase on June 1.

- Sanjay Sehrawat, DCP of the Election Cell in Delhi Police, announced on Thursday that 33,000 Delhi Police officers, 51 paramilitary companies, and 17,500 Home Guards from Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh will be stationed in the national capital for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls on May 25, during the sixth phase.

Constituencies going for polls in Phase 6 S.No State/UT Constituencies 1. Delhi Chandni Chowk, North East Delhi, East Delhi, New Delhi, North West Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi 2. Haryana Ambala, Kurukshetra, Sirsa, Hisar, Karnal, Sonipat, Rohtak, Bhiwani-Mahendragarh, Gurgaon, Faridabad 3. Uttar Pradesh Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Phulpur, Allahabad, Ambedkar Nagar, Shrawasti, Domriyaganj, Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Lalganj, Azamgarh, Jaunpur, Machhlishahr, Bhadohi 4. Odisha Bhubaneswar, Puri, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar (SC), Cuttack, Sambalpur 5. Jharkhand Giridih, Dhanbad, Ranchi, Jamshedpur 6. Jammu and Kashmir Anantnag-Rajouri 7. West Bengal Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura, Bishnupur 8. Bihar Valmiki Nagar, Paschim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Sheohar, Vaishali, Gopalganj (SC), Siwan, Maharajganj

Lok Sabha election 2024 polling schedule

Phase 1: April 19 (voting done)

Phase 2: April 26 (voting done)

Phase 3: May 7 (voting done)

Phase 4: May 13 (voting done)

Phase 5: May 20 (voting done)

Phase 6: May 25

Phase 7: June 1

Counting of votes: June 4
From the agrarian swathes of Haryana where the political landscape witnessed major upheaval in the past month, to the high-octane contest in the national Capital, and from the delayed vote in the final seat in Jammu and Kashmir, to the continuation of the contest in key states such as Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, more than 110 million voters in 58 constituencies across 7 states and one Union territory will exercise their franchise in the penultimate phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Saturday. Polling officials collect the electronic voting machines and other election materials on the eve of the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls, in Prayagraj on Friday. (ANI)

At stake are the prospects of 889 candidates, which includes PDP president and former J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, three family members of former deputy prime minister Devi Lal in Hisar and former Calcutta high court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay in Bengal.

Also voting on Saturday will be the 42 assembly seats in Odisha, where state polls are being held simultaneously.

With the conclusion of the sixth phase, 486 of Indias 543 parliamentary constituencies will have voted. This means that the political fate of 90% of the nations Lok Sabha seats will be sealed after Saturday.

The final phase of the elections is slated for June 1, while votes will be counted for both the Lok Sabha and the assembly elections on June 4.

All seven seats in Delhi, all 10 seats in Haryana, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, eight in Bihar, four in Jharkhand, six in Odisha and eight in West Bengal will go to polls. The voter turnout in the seats going to polls on Saturday in 2019 was 64.9%. The overall voting percentage in first six phases was 67.7%.

Of these 58 Lok Sabha seats, past results are available for the 57 PCs (electoral boundaries were redrawn in J&K, so a direct comparison isnt possible). Of these, the Congress and its allies did not win any seat in 2019. The BJP swept Haryana, Delhi, Bihar and Jharkhand seats in this phase in 2019. In the remaining 28 Lok Sabha seats across Odisha, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh, BJP and allies won 16 and remaining 12 were won by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the Trinamool Congress (TMC), the Samajwadi Party (SP), and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

Concerned CEOs and state machineries have been directed to take adequate measures to manage the adverse impact of hot weather or rainfall wherever predicted. Polling stations are ready to welcome the voters with ample shade, drinking water, ramps and other basic facilities to ensure that polling takes place in a comfortable and secure environment, the Election Commission of India said in a statement.

In Haryana, where all 10 seats are being contested in this round, there is a direct contest in majority of these seats. A by-poll is also being held for the Karnal assembly seat from where chief minister Nayab Singh Saini is the BJP candidate.

Among the top guns of the BJP whose fate will be sealed on May 25 are former chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar (Karnal), Union ministers Rao Inderjit Singh (Gurugram), Krishan Pal Gurjar (Faridabad), and Naveen Jindal (Kurukshetra), who is a former two-term Congress MP.

The prominent Congress leaders in the fray are Kumari Selja (Sirsa), Deepender Singh Hooda (Rohtak) and Raj Babbar (Gurugram).

For the BJP, which has targeted 30 of West Bengals 42 Lok Sabha segments, the seventh phase is being seen as the most crucial one in the south Bengal region. In 2019, when the BJP set a record by winning 18 seats in the eastern state, its best performance was in the south Bengal districts that go polls on Saturday. Of the eight seats voting on Saturday, BJP won five  Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, Bishnupur and Midnapore. TMC MP Sisir Adhikari and his son Dibyendu, who retained their Tamluk and Contai seats respectively in East Midnapore district, have switched over to the saffron camp since 2019.

In Bihar, the BJP-led NDA will try to retain all eight Lok Sabha seats  Valimiki Nagar, Pashim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Sheohar, Vaisali, Gopalganj (SC), Siwan and Maharajganj  it won in 2019. Of these, BJP won four, JD(U) three and Janshakti Party (LJP), which split into two factions in 2021, one. Of the INDIA bloc parties, Congress is contesting two, Vikasheel Insaan Party (VIP) and Rashtriya Janata Dal three each.

In Odisha, contest for six parliamentary constituencies  Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Puri and Sambalpur  and 42 assembly seats will take place.

In Jharkhand, four key Lok Sabha seats  Ranchi, Dhanbad, Jamshedpur and Giridih  are being contested. The battle for these seats is likely to be directly between NDA and INDIA bloc candidates.

In Jammu and Kashmir, vote will also take place in the Anantnag-Rajouri PC. This PC was originally slated to vote in the third phase on May 7, but the contest was postponed due to adverse weather at the time. A triangular contest is expected between PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, National Conference candidate Mian Altaf and the Apni Party candidate Zaffar Iqbal Manhas. BJP has not fielded a candidate from the seat, but is supporting Manhas.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday moved the Supreme Court against a Calcutta High Court order that refused to interfere with a single-judge verdict directing the party not to publish any advertisement violating the Model Code of Conduct during the Lok Sabha election, reported PTI. The Supreme Court building in New Delhi.(File)

The matter was mentioned for urgent listing before a vacation bench of Justice Bela M Trivedi and Justice Pankaj Mithal. Follow full coverage of the Lok Sabha elections here.

Advocate Saurabh Mishra, who mentioned the matter, told the bench that a division bench of the high court passed the order on May 22.

"Why don't you move the next vacation bench?" the bench asked.

The counsel told the bench that the high court has restrained the BJP from issuing advertisements during the Lok Sabha polls till June 4.

"Kindly have it on Monday (May 27)," the lawyer requested the bench, according to PTI. "We will see," the bench said in response.

Also Read | Calcutta HC cancels OBC certificates for 77 groups, Mamata rejects order

Earlier this month, the BJP had published at least four advertisements in vernacular dailies, portraying the ruling party Trinamool Congress as corrupt and one that is against the Hindus, and claiming that women are not safe under the present regime. The TMC filed multiple complaints with the EC and later moved the high court after alleged inaction by the poll body.

The MCC prohibits political parties, leaders, and candidates from criticising their opponents based on unverified allegations.

Calcutta HC judgment

The Calcutta high court on Monday pulled up the Election Commission (EC) for its gross failure to address complaints about derogatory advertisements published by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, and restrained the opposition party from carrying out materials that are in violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

A single bench of Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharyya passed the order while hearing a petition by the TMC, seeking to restrain the BJP from publishing advertisements that violate the poll code.

In the present case, the EC has grossly failed to address the complaints raised by the petitioner in due time. This court is surprised that no resolution worth the name has been arrived at regarding the complaints till date, more so because most of the phases of the elections are over, the judge said.

On May 22, a division bench of the High Court refused to interfere with the single-judge order in the matter.

Observing that a "laxman rekha" should be adhered to, the division bench had said there should not be any personal attack on the part of any political party.

(Inputs from PTI)
A 24-year-old Bangladeshi man living illegally in Mumbai has been arrested for allegedly skinning and chopping the body of Bangladesh lawmaker Md Anwarul Azim Anar, who was reported missing on May 18 near Kolkata, an investigator said on Friday. Bangladeshi lawmaker Md Anwarul Azim Anar. (Sourced)

West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) arrested the man on the day a top Bangladeshi police officer said in Dhaka on Thursday that Anar was allegedly murdered in a flat and his body was mutilated in such a manner that it would be difficult to identify it as human flesh.

Investigators in West Bengal on Thursday said they found blood stains inside a refrigerator in the apartment where Anar was last spotted.

An Indian Police Service officer identified the 24-year-old accused as Jihad Hawaldar. Hailing from Khulna in Bangladesh, Hawaldar was illegally staying in Mumbai. He was directly involved in the crime. The investigation is going on, he said.

Investigators cited Hawaldars questioning and said he told them that Anars body was first skinned and then cut into small pieces. The pieces were put into plastic bags and placed in trolley bags before they were disposed of over the next few days.

Anar was strangulated on May 13 within a few hours of entering a duplex at New Town [near Kolkata], which was taken on rent by his long-term friend and business partner Aktaruzzaman Shahin, said the officer.

Bangladesh Police said Shahin, a Bangladeshi-born American Citizen, allegedly masterminded the murder before fleeing to Nepal. Falling out over business is believed to have been the reason behind the murder.

Anar, a three-time lawmaker of the ruling Awami League, arrived in West Bengal on May 12.

CCTV footage showed he was at New Town on the afternoon of May 13, and that there were at least three people, including a woman, with him. That was the last time he was seen alive. Anar never came out even as the people accompanying him were seen leaving the premises on different dates over the next few days.

CCTV footage showed that Shahin also entered and left the high-end residential campus. He had taken the duplex on rent at over 1 lakh per month, said an officer.

On Wednesday, authorities in both West Bengal and Bangladesh confirmed that Anar was murdered. Until Friday police were unable to trace his body parts.

Investigators said the murder was planned two to three months ago and that those involved held multiple meetings at Shahins houses in Gulshan and Basundhara areas in Dhaka.
Stakes are higher than ever for former J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti contesting her fourth parliamentary election from the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat, once a stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Apart from Mufti, twenty other candidates are trying their luck from the seat which has witnessed high-pitched campaigning, with leading candidates, PDP chief Mufti, National Conferences (NC) Mian Altaf and Apni Partys Zaffar Iqbal Manhas, locked in a triangular contest. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) didn't field a candidate from the seat but is supporting Manhas, which the saffron partys leaders term are calling a strategy to end the dynastic rule in J&K.

Even before campaigning went into full swing, tensions ran high in the constituency after the Election Commission (EC) shifted the polling date to May 25 (in the sixth phase) citing various logistic, communication and natural barriers of connectivity turning out as hindrance in campaigning which  (is) tantamount to lack of fair opportunities for the contesting candidates.

Before the decision, the EC was approached by BJPs Ravinder Raina, People Conferences Imran Reza Ansari, Apni Partys Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, and Democratic Progressive Azad Partys Mohammad Saleem Parray, along with two independent candidates, Ali Mohammad Wani and Arsheed Ali Lone to defer the polls. Meanwhile, the NC and the PDP rebuked the decision.

With over 18.30 lakh voters, the constituency has a substantial vote bank of Gujjars and Paharis. The constituency, which spreads across the Pir Panjal range, including the Rajouri and Poonch areas in Jammu along with Anantnag in south Kashmir, has 18 assembly segments of which 11 fall in the Kashmir province.

This is Muftis fourth parliamentary election from Anantnag Lok Sabha's seat after being elected to Parliament after being elected from the seat in 2004 and 2014. In 2019, Mufti came second after NC candidate Hasnain Masoodi won the seat amidst a low voter turnout, signalling a lull in the PDPs influence.

Alleging that the ruling dispensation doesn't want Mufti to secure this seat and denied her a level playing field, PDP youth president, Waheed ur Rehman Parra, said, "For her, this is a very important election and we are motivating voters not to boycott polls. A higher turnout will definitely help Mehbooba Mufti to secure this seat and if she wins everybody knows the former CM will again talk about the peoples issues in Parliament.

Even Iltija Mufti, Mehbooba Mufti's daughter, has jumped into the poll fray, campaigning for her mother across Anantnag- Rajouri. "As a party worker I am trying to establish a bond with voters especially women folk in the constituency," said Mufti.

The PDP is hoping for a voter turnout similar to the Baramulla parliamentary seat, which witnessed 59 percent voting on Monday. A high voter turnout could be a game changer for Mehbooba Mufti, especially in her home turfs of Anantnag, Shopian and Kulgam districts.

Meanwhile, NC leader Mian Altaf Ahmed is eyeing the Gujjar and Pahari votes in the constituency. Former CMs Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah are spearheading Altafs campaign.

In a rally on Wednesday, Omar Abdullah reiterated his claim that the BJP is contesting through proxies in J&K. In an interview with HT, Abdullah said, In the south Kashmir seat, influential Pahari leaders from Poonch have announced the BJP support to Mehbooba Mufti of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This election has been good because it has unmasked all the BJP proxies.

Abdullah also described the Apni Party as the B team of the BJP. While both PDP and NC are part of the Oppositions INDIA bloc, two major partners the Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) are the NC candidate instead of Mufti, giving an edge to Altaf.

Apni Partys Manhas is relying on the BJPs support and Pahari vote bank besides banking on the support of former legislators and ministers on both sides of the Pirpanchal part of the Apni Party.

"This seat is especially important for Mehbooba Mufti. If she loses a second time, it's going to severely hurt her politically," said Abdul Hamid, a political analyst from south Kashmir.
Danielle Echeverria is a reporter for The Chronicles Engagement and Breaking News team. She recently completed her Master's degree in journalism at Stanford University, where she won the Nicholas Roosevelt Environmental Journalism Award for her reporting and covered agriculture, climate change and worker safety. She previously interned The Chronicle on the Business desk, as well as at Big Local News, focusing on data journalism. She is originally from Bakersfield, California.
BHOPAL: Shivprasad Dhurve, who was accused of killing four on-duty security guards in their sleep in a week in 2022, has been sentenced to life imprisonment, a special prosecutor said on Friday.. Shivprasad Dhurve,the youngest of four siblings, left home at 15, (HT FILE PHOTO)

Sagar districts additional sessions judge Prashant Saxena delivered Fridays verdict, convicting Dhurve of killing 60-year-old Shambhu Saran Dubey when he was sleeping on duty at a government college on August 29, 2022. Dhurve smashed his head with a stone.

According to the prosecution, Shambhu Saran Dubey was the second person to have been killed by Dhurve, who was then just 19. He went on to kill two more before he was arrested by one of the 10 teams formed to track him down in September 2022.

Shivprasad told the police officers who caught him that he did not like people sleeping on the job.

Special public prosecutor Saurabh Dimha said sessions judge Prashant Saxena convicted Shivprasad Dhurve after a trial that saw 25 witnesses deposing against him.

He has been handed out a life term under section 302 (murder), 10 years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of 3,000 under section 460 (trespassing) and three years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of 2000 under section 201(causing disappearance of evidence) of the Indian Penal Code by the court, said Dimha.

At the time of his arrest in 2022, police said Dhruve first got into trouble as a juvenile, in 2018, in Pune, where he attacked the owner of a restaurant where he worked as waiter.

He then went to Goa and waited at some restaurants there. He returned to Madhya Pradeshs Sagar in August 2022 after losing his job.

The first murder was reported on August 28 when Kalyan Lodhi, 57, posted at a factory, died after his head was smashed. Shambhu Saran Dubey, 60, who was on duty at a college, was found murdered on August 29 in the same way. The third murder was reported on August 30, when Mangal Ahirwar, 45 was killed with a plougher. Another security guard, Uttam Rajak, was killed at an under-construction railway bridge in May.
New Delhi, A three-year-old girl was kidnapped and killed allegedly by a neighbour in southwest Delhi, police said on Friday. Neighbour abducts, kills 3-year-old girl in Delhi; held

The girl's body was found in a drain and the accused was arrested after a brief exchange of fire, they said.

According to police, the incident occurred on Wednesday evening when the victim's family reported the kidnapping of their daughter from the Kapashera area.

"A police team was sent to the spot immediately. The victim's mother told police that they have been staying here in a rented accommodation for the last five years," Deputy Commissioner of Police , Rohit Meena said.

"She told us that her daughter was playing outside of the house and at around 6 pm, her daughter was kidnapped by a neighbour," the DCP said.

Based on her complaint, an FIR was lodged and a massive search operation was launched to trace the girl and the accused. Police examined the CCTV footage, he said.

"In one camera, at 7.05 pm, the accused was seen with the girl going towards a drain. In the same camera, he was caught returning alone without the girl at around 7.25 pm," DCP Meena said.

The accused, Anil , was traced and detained at about 11.55 pm, the same day from a bus heading towards Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, he said.

"He was interrogated and initially denied having played any role whatsoever in the kidnapping. But during sustained interrogation, he broke down and admitted to having killed and dumped the girl in a marshy drain located at the border of Gurugram and Kapashera," DCP said.

Police said that Anil then led the team to the drain, where they launched a search operation, he said. The crime and Forensic Science Laboratory teams were also called to the spot, he said.

"After a long search operation lasting more than an hour in the dark, the girl's body was finally found dumped in the marshy drain," he added.

"At that moment, the accused sensed an opportunity to escape. He grabbed the loaded service revolver of a police officer, tried to escape from custody, and fired at the team. The police fired in self-defence and hit him. He was immediately rushed to Indira Gandhi Hospital," Meena said.

"The body was examined by the FSL and crime team. The accused was arrested and is now in judicial custody. The body was sent for post-mortem," Meena said.

"Police are probing all angles including if the girl was sexually exploited," Meena added.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday arrested one more accused in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, who was an ex-convict in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case, about three days after a massive crackdown across four states. Ten people were injured in the blast at The Rameshwaram Cafe (PTI)

Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu, 35, is a resident of Karnataka's Hubbali and is the fifth accused to be arrested in the case.

NIA investigations found that Mirza, previously convicted in a LeT Bengaluru conspiracy case, got involved in a new conspiracy after being released from jail.

In 2018, he introduced Abdul Matheen Taha to an online handler suspected to be abroad and provided an email ID for encrypted communication between them. Taha was arrested in the case on April 12 in Kolkata along with co-accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib.

The blast, caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) at the cafe on ITPL Road, Brookfield, in Bengaluru, injured several customers and staff members.

During the investigation into the Rameshwaram Cafe blast on March 1, 2024, the NIA searched 29 locations across India. They are continuing to investigate the handler's role and the larger conspiracy behind the blast, which injured several people and caused extensive property damage.

On Tuesday, the NIA conducted raids in multiple states to uncover the full conspiracy behind the blast and to identify other conspirators involved in "handling the accused from abroad". NIA teams searched 11 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh in connection with the case. They conducted extensive searches at places linked to 11 suspects.

Read Here: NIA arrests Andhra techie in Rameshwaram cafe blast case

It said in a statement, The NIA on Tuesday cracked down on multiple locations in four states as part of its efforts to uncover the entire conspiracy behind the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case and to identify the other conspirators involved in handling the accused from abroad.

The NIA took over the case on March 3. On April 12, they arrested two key suspects, Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa (the mastermind) and Mussavir Hussain Shazib (the attacker), from their hideout in Kolkata, where they were using fake identities. Both suspects are from Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district, Karnataka. Officials say they are members of a Shivamogga-based Islamic State group.
New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA), probing the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, on Friday, arrested a suspect who was earlier convicted in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case of 2012, officials aware of the matter. Ten people were injured in the blast at Bengalurus Rameshwaram Cafe which took place on March 1 (PTI Photo)

An IED explosion rocked the Rameshwaram cafe located on ITPL Road, Brookefield, Bengaluru, on March 1, injuring at least 10 people.

According to officials, one Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu, 35, a resident of Hubballi City in Karnataka, was taken into custody under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) for assisting the mastermind of the Rameshwaram Cafe blast.

He is the fifth accused to be arrested in the case after Abdul Matheen Taha (the main planner), Mussavir Hussain Shazib, the bomber, Muzammil Shareef, who provided logistics like SIM, cellphones etc, and Maaz Muneer Ahmed. Taha, Shazib, Shareef and Ahmed are associated with ISIS Thirthahalli module, named after the town in Shivamogga from where they operated.

Mirza and 10 other members of a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) conspiracy case were raided by the federal anti-terror probe agency on Tuesday to get clues on the Rameshwaram Cafe blast following which Mirza and other members of the LeT conspiracy case were detained and called for questioning over the last three days.

Three days after a massive crackdown across four states in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the NIA on Friday arrested one more accused, identified as an ex-convict in a LeT terror conspiracy case. Shoaib Ahmed Mirza is the fifth accused to be arrested in the case, an agency spokesperson said in a statement on Friday.

The spokesperson said Mirza had got involved in this fresh conspiracy after being released from jail.

In 2018, he befriended and introduced accused Taha to an online handler suspected to be abroad. Mirza had further provided an e-mail ID for encrypted communication between the handler and Taha, who was arrested earlier on April 12 from his hideout in Kolkata (West Bengal) along with co-accused Shazib, the spokesperson added.

The LeT terror conspiracy case of 2012 pertains to information received by the City Crime Branch, Bengaluru, that members of LeT and Harkat-ul-Jehad-E-Islami (HuJI) have hatched a conspiracy to indulge in subversive activities like target killings of important personalities of the Hindu community in Bengaluru and Hubballi and thereby disturb the communal harmony. Surveillance was arranged over the activities of the suspected members. The Bengaluru police filed a case in the matter in August 2012 and it was taken over by the NIA in November of the same year.

Also Read: NIA arrests Andhra techie in Rameshwaram cafe blast case

Mirza was arrested by police on August 29, 2012.

Other members in the LeT conspiracy case were identified as Abdul Hakeem, Riyaz Ahmed, Mohammad Akram, Ubeullah Bahadur, Waheed Hussain, Dr Zafar Iqbal Sholapur, Mohammad Sadiq Lashkar, Mehboob Bagalkote, Zakir, Obaid-Ur-Rehman, Nayueem Siddique, Dr Imran Ahmed and Syed Tanzeem Ahmed.

It was revealed that Abdul Hakeem and Zafar Iqbal had visited Pakistan via Iran in 2011-12. At the instance of Farhathullah Ghouri, wanted in the Akshardham Temple attack of Gujarat, they were taken to Karachi, where they met senior ISI officers like Hamad, Mustafa, and Abdul Waheed besides LeT operatives, according to a charge sheet filed by NIA in the case May 2013.

These ISI officials motivated them to collect intelligence and carry out espionage activities in India. Accordingly, they received training in the collection of intelligence, cybercrime and handling of weapons and firing, the charge sheet, seen by HT, states.

On Mirzas role, the NIA charge sheet stated that he was active in selecting targets to be eliminated in Hubbali and Bengaluru, including Hindu leaders, journalists and police officers.

In September 2016, a court convicted Mirza and 12 others in the case. He was released on bail in 2018 and later helped Taha, said an official who didnt want to be named.

As claimed by the NIA on Friday, it was Mirza who introduced Taha to his online handler. The handler is suspected of using the codename Colonel who operates from somewhere in the Middle East and has linked with ISI, as reported by HT exclusively on April 21.
Mumbai, Union minister Ramdas Athawale on Friday accused the Congress and other INDIA bloc constituents of making desperate attempts to spread confusion among Muslims and Dalits by saying that the ruling parties will change the Constitution. He asserted that nobody can change the Constitution. Addressing a press conference, Athawale, who heads the Republican Party of India , expressed confidence that the BJP and its alliance partners will win more than 400 Lok Sabha seats in the country, including 75-plus in key state Uttar Pradesh that sends 80 MPs to the Lower House of Parliament. Athawale claimed that in Uttar Pradesh, the Bahujan Samaj Party is losing ground and many of its supporters are now joining the RPI . The Union minister said he has toured 22 states during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls with the last being Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. He said the INDI alliance will neither get majority nor does it have any prime ministerial face. The alliance is on the verge of collapse and it will fall apart after June 4 , Athawale claimed. "The Congress and the INDI alliance partners are making desperate attempts to spread confusion among Muslims and Dalits. They are spreading rumours, but they will not get any success in doing it. No one can change Dr B R Ambedkar's Constitution, but still rumours are being spread among the Dalit community by the Congress and its INDI alliance partners. But attempts to do so have failed," he said. He said the Dalit community is aware that the charge of attempting to change the Constitution is baseless. The opposition parties have been targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the BJP wants a brute majority of 400-plus seats to change the Constitution in the next term if it comes to power again.

Oppn making desperate bids to spread confusion by saying that Constitution will be changed: Athawale
New Delhi, Days after the Election Commission asked the Congress not to "politicise" the armed forces, the party Friday said its criticism of the Agnipath military recruitment scheme was within the Model Code of Conduct, and alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "taking the support" of the poll watchdog. Our Agnipath remarks criticism of policy not of forces, within model code: Cong on EC letter

Congress' ex-Servicemen Department chief Col Rohit Chaudhry said the model code states that the "criticism of other political parties when made shall be confined to their policies, programmes, past records and work".

The armed forces are doing a great job in protecting the country, and the Congress was only talking about the policy of the government when it made statements on the Agnipath scheme, Chaudhry told a press conference at the AICC headquarters here.

He said the Modi government has weakened the army by introducing the Agnipath scheme. "We are challenging the scheme which is not in the interest of the country, the army and the soldiers."

Chaudhry said the Election Commission has written to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge that the party's star campaigners should not talk about the operational matters of the defense forces.

"Whenever Modiji gets into trouble, he looks for some support. Earlier, he used to hide behind the defence forces. Now he is taking the support of the Election Commission," the Congress leader said. "If our government is formed, the Agnipath scheme will be scrapped."

This scheme has created discrimination in the Army and is also weakening the security of the country, Chaudhry alleged.

The EC has asked the party not to politicise defence forces and make potentially divisive statements regarding the socioeconomic composition of the armed forces.

The Commission was referring to remarks made by top Congress leaders on the Agnipath scheme.

The government rolled out the Agnipath recruitment scheme in June 2022 for short-term induction of personnel with an aim to bring down the age profile of the three services. It provides for recruiting youngsters between the age bracket of 17-and-half years and 21 for four years with a provision to retain 25 per cent of them for 15 more years.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
New Delhi: At 5am on Saturday, thousands of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) workers across the country will get a special wake-up call from party president JP Nadda, rousing them to get up and get going to work at the voting booths, to get their voters to come out. The one-minute message recorded by Nadda urges them to do their bit to achieve the target of seats set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Bharatiya Janata Party national president JP Nadda (File Photo)

Jan Jan ki yahi pukar, fir ek baar Modi sarkar, is baar 400 paar (The call of every individual, once again Modi government, this time with over 400 seats)  says Nadda in a message relayed through the workers SARAL (Sangathan Reporting and Analysis) app.

By the end of voting on June 1, three crore [30 million] BJP workers would have received this personalised message just ahead of voting in their area. On Saturday, workers in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar, and Odisha bracing for the polls will be told that they must get to work and urge people to get out.

Naddajis call will be followed by my call, said Delhi unit chief Virender Sachdeva, And everyone I call will again call 25 others. We have a top-down system to ensure everyone is covered. Not just that, we also had meetings in at least 12,000 of the total 13,400 odd booths to make sure our voters come out to vote.

Accessed by HT, the recorded voice message starts with Nadda introducing himself and asking the party workers to urge their family members and the beneficiaries in their constituencies to go out and take them to the polling booths and ensure that they vote for the BJP.

I believe that this election will change the fate of the country. This election is important to fulfil the dream of Viskit Bharat by 2047. Therefore, it is the responsibility of every party worker to contribute to giving a massive victory to the BJP.

The SARAL app enables ground-level party members and leaders to upload details from polling booths, activities, and expansion plans. The key thing is that the call will only go to registered party workers, said a BJP leader aware of details, adding, If anyone other than a worker gets a call, it will be an EC violation. So we have taken a lot of care that it works only through our app.

Naddas voice message comes as the culminating effort of augmenting several campaign strategies for the sixth phase. For example, apart from bolstering social media outreach and door-to-door canvassing, the BJP capitalised on the charisma and oratorical prowess of leaders like Uttar Pradesh chief minster Yogi Adityanath and Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to bolster voter participation and secure substantial victories.

The voice message also comes to mobilise cadres and ensure success, particularly in fiercely contested regions like Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha, where elections will culminate on May 25 and June 1.
Claiming the Pune Porsche case doesn't solely depend on the blood report of the accused, Amitesh Kumar, the city's police commissioner, said on Friday they have the CCTV footage of the 17-year-old boy drinking liquor in a pub. The Pune top cop said the police are investigating whether the accused's father's driver was under pressure to take the blame for the accident. Pune police commissioner Amitesh Kumar said he has ordered an inquiry after allegations that the relatives of the deceased in accident case were threatened at Yerawada police station. (HT)

The boy, currently in a juvenile home, is accused of accidently mowing down and killing two techies with his luxury car.

"We have the CCTV footage of him drinking liquor in the pub...The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report; we have other evidence also. He (minor accused) was in his senses. It was not as if all of them were so drunk that they could not understand anything. They had full knowledge that due to their conduct, an incident like this happened," he said, ANI reporter.

He, however, denied reports that the boy was fed pizza in the police station.

Kumar said the police are investigating whether the driver was coaxed into changing his statement.

"It is true that at the start the driver had said that he was driving the car...We are investigating this part also... under whose pressure the driver made that statement," he added.

Also read: Pune Porsche crash: Amid 'burger, pizza' row, teen's mother asks police to protect my son

Amitesh Kumar said the police are probing into the allegations of preferential treatment to the teenager.

He was reacting to the allegation that the police delayed taking the blood samples of the teenager, whose father is a wealthy realtor in the Maharashtra city.

The Juvenile Justice Board had granted the teenager bail and asked him to write an essay on road safety as penance. After nationwide outrage, the bail was cancelled and he was sent to a remand home.

The police have arrested the accused's father and the owners of two bars that served the teenager alcohol.

The driver of the accused's father has told the police that he had dialed the latter to inform him that his son was insisting on driving the car. The Pune realtor, however, directed the driver to let him drive the car.
Jabalpur, Parents of two software engineers killed in a car accident in Pune demanded on Friday that the Supreme Court should monitor the probe and trial in the case. Pune car crash: Parents of deceased techies demand SC monitored probe, trial in MP

The families have also demanded that the trial in the case should be held in Madhya Pradesh, where the victims hailed from, and not in Maharashtra.

Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta, both 24-year-old IT professionals hailing from Madhya Pradesh, died on May 19 after a speeding Porsche, allegedly driven by a 17-year-old boy, hit their motorcycle in Pune city.

Ashwini hailed from Jabalpur, while Anish belonged to Birsinghpur Pali in Umaria district.

Talking to PTI, Ashwini's father, Suresh Kumar Koshta, said, "The Supreme Court should monitor the investigation and trial in the case to ensure that we get justice."

The accused should be tried as an adult and not as a minor, considering the serious nature of the crime, he said.

Koshta further alleged that the accused was in an inebriated condition when he ran his car over his daughter and Anish.

Following the accident, the teenager was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, which granted him bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay.

After an outcry over quick bail and the police's review plea, the JJB on Wednesday remanded the teen, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, to the observation home till June 5.

The police have also arrested the teenagers father.

"I am going to fight for justice till my last breath," Anish's father, Om Prakash Awadhiya, said over the phone.

The trial in the case should be held in Madhya Pradesh and not in Pune to ensure justice for the families, he said.

He alleged that the accused was given VIP treatment in the police station even though he had no driving licence.

The accident should be treated as a double murder, Awadhiya said.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Two Pune Police personnel were on Friday suspended for not informing the wireless control room about the Porsche accident involving the teenager which led to the deaths of two software engineers.



Pune top cop Amitesh Kumar was quoted by ANI as saying that police inspector Rahul Jagdale and assistant police inspector Vishwanath Todkari, posted at Yerwada police station, were suspended. The Pune car crash involving a 17-year-old killed two people. (HT PHOTO)(HT_PRINT)

Earlier in the day, the Pune police commissioner alleged an attempt to tamper with the evidence to show that the Porsche that crushed Aneesh Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta was driven by the family driver and not the 17-year-old son of realtor Vishal Agarwal.

We have the CCTV footage of him (juvenile) drinking liquor in the pub. The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report as we have other evidence also.He (juvenile) was fully in his senses, He had full knowledge that due to his conduct, such an accident, where section 304 is applicable, can happen, Amitesh Kumar was quoted by PTI as saying.



ALSO READ: Parents of deceased techies demand SC monitored probe, trial in MP

No preferential treatment to accused: Pune CP

The Pune Police commissioner also responded to allegations of a preferential

treatment given to the juvenile, saying,"We have clearly said that a pizza party didn't happen in the police station. But yes, something had happened on which we have initiated an internal investigation. We are trying to make this a water tight case."



ALSO READ: Pune crash: Amid 'pizza' row, teen's mother asks police to protect my son



Father of accused in judicial custody

A local court has sent accused's father Vishal Agarwal, and five others in judicial custody till June 7. The prosecution had demanded extension of their police custody for further probe.



But the court remanded Agarwal and others including the owner and employees of two liquor-serving establishments -- where the teenager had allegedly consumed alcohol before his Porsche car knocked down two software professionals on a motorbike -- in judicial custody instead.
A Waymo autonomous vehicle drives through San Francisco in 2023. The robotaxis are only available to people with access to the companys app, but theres a way tourists can try out the technology too. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle 2023

The ability to hail a driverless Waymo robotaxi in San Francisco is still not fully open to the public, but the company says theres a way to experience its autonomous vehicles if youre visiting the city.

The Alphabet-owned company began deploying its white-and-black robotaxis for commercial driverless ride-hailing in late August after state regulators approved Waymos unlimited expansion in San Francisco. The vehicles tend to attract curiosity from tourists visiting San Francisco looking to experience their first robotaxi ride.

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Riding Waymos robotaxis in S.F. for the first time? Heres what you need to know

However, the companys ride-hailing app, Waymo One, is only accessible to users whove been approved off a company waitlist. Waymo says more than 200,000 people have signed up for its waitlist in San Francisco, with tens of thousands still waiting to gain approval.

Tourists visiting San Francisco can bypass the waitlist and receive temporary access to Waymos app by reaching out to the company on its social media channels, according to a spokesperson.

The company says it cant always guarantee a temporary access code to Waymo One but encouraged visitors to get in contact with the company via social media.

Its unclear when Waymo will make its driverless ride-hailing services fully open to the public, as is the case in Phoenix, where it has operated commercial service since 2020.

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Cyclone Remal, which is expected to develop over the east-central Bay of Bengal, is likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around Sunday midnight as a severe cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 100 to 120 km per hour, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Friday. An IMD official said models were showing divergent projections on intensification and landfall point. (X)

The well-marked low-pressure area over the west-central and adjoining south Bay of Bengal moved northeastwards over 12 hours, concentrated into a depression, and was on Friday centered over the central Bay of Bengal, about 800 km south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh) and 810 km south of Canning (West Bengal).

It is likely to continue to move northeastwards and intensify further into a cyclonic storm over the east-central Bay of Bengal by Saturday morning before moving nearly northwards, to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Saturday night.

The weather system will continue to move nearly northward and is expected to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around Sunday midnight as a severe cyclonic storm.

An IMD official said the North Indian Ocean is extremely warm and that sea surface temperatures of 30 to 31C have all the potential to supercharge this cyclone. But monsoon winds have already set in over the Peninsular region and this system is still attached to that monsoon flow.

The official said in a day or two, it will detach from that flow and travel towards the coast. But its travel time, when it has the potential to intensify, is short, about 1.5 days. So we are hoping that it can intensify only up to a severe or a very severe cyclone with peak winds of around 135 to 140 km per hour. The official said models are showing divergent projections on intensification and landfall point. So we have to wait.

Private forecaster Skymet Weather on Thursday said there is a fair amount of diversification about the track and timelines of the cyclone. It is quite probable that the cyclone may head for the Myanmar-Bangladesh border, south of Coxs Bazar. Yet, the possibility of the system coming dangerously close to the West BengalOdisha coast cannot be ruled out, it said.
The Supreme Court on Friday declined to issue any directives to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding a plea demanding the immediate disclosure of authenticated voter turnout records, emphasising the necessity of a hands-off approach given that the Lok Sabha elections are currently underway. Voters queue up to cast their ballots at a polling station during the fifth phase of voting in India's general election in Uluberia of Howrah district on May 20, 2024. (AFP)

A vacation bench of justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma highlighted the potential implications of judicial interference in the electoral process during an active election period, stressing that such actions could disrupt the ongoing procedures.

We cant interrupt something thats already underway... In between elections, hands-off approach has to be taken. Let the application be heard along with the main writ petition. We cannot interrupt the process. Let us have some trust in the authority, the bench remarked while deferring the plea by non-profit Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) for immediate publication of booth-wise absolute number of voter turnout on the ECI website. A similar petition by former Trinamool Congress parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, who is a candidate from the Krishnanagar seat in West Bengal, was also listed along with ADRs plea.

Also Read | Congress questions ECI on disclosing polling data through Form 17C

The bench, taking note of submissions by senior counsel Maninder Singh, who appeared for ECI, said that plea was moved after the election process had already begun, and therefore it would not be prudent, especially in the light of settled judicial precedents, to address such concerns during the election process.

Its an election spread over seven phases. Tomorrow is the sixth phase. This particular compliance that you are asking for will require manpower and regulatory compliance, the bench told senior counsel Dushyant Dave, appearing for ADR, and senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who represented Moitra.

In its order, the Supreme Court noted that the 2019 petition by ADR asked for a final relief that was akin to the interim application currently under consideration. How can you ask for an interim relief which is prayed by you as a final relief in the petition? You filed this petition in 2019. What steps did you take to get it listed earlier? Why did you file it in April only after the process began, the bench asked Dave.

Also Read | Disclosing vote records could disrupt polls, EC tells Supreme Court

The senior advocate responded that ADR approached the court in public interest and that delay by ECI in publishing authenticated data on the voter turnout has created anxiety among the citizens.

But the bench said that it must be circumspect about the nature of public interest litigations (PIL) and the procedure being followed. How many PILs we see public interest, publicity interest or paise interest litigations... It is for us to keep a check. We are not saying you dont have a case on merits, what we are telling you is, you may not have approached at the appropriate stage with a proper prayer, it observed.

It also commented that ECI seemed to have invited trouble for itself by putting out provisional information through the Voter Turnout App.

We recall that when we were hearing another petition by the same party (ADR) last month, we specifically asked Mr Singh if there is a statutory requirement to share data on the Voter Turnout App. He said No, we are doing it only for merit and transparency. We will have to say that its like aa bail mujhe maar for them. They are doing something to further transparency and being questioned because of that, quipped the bench.

With the writing on the wall, Dave and Singhvi agreed to have the hearing adjourned to a date after the completion of the ongoing polls.

The bench then proceeded to record in its order: The arguments on the interim application were heard. Prima facie we are not inclined to grant any relief on the interim application at this stage in view of similarities of the prayer (a) of the interim application with prayer (b) of the writ petition out of which the interim application arises. The grant of relief in the interim application would amount to the grant of final relief. Re-list the application together with the writ petitions before the appropriate bench after vacations. We have not expressed any opinion on merits except the prima facie view indicated above.

Also Read | Slow pace dogs Mumbai polling, Uddhav cries foul, Fadnavis asks EC to intervene

During the hearing, Singh raised preliminary objections to ADRs plea, demanding its dismissal straightaway. He contended that false allegations and unfounded suspicions were the foundation for the ADRs application, adding that the May 9 application suppressed the top courts April 26 ruling in the EVM-VVPAT issue which not only covered the issue regarding Form 17C but also condemned the NGO for attempts to create doubts over the electoral process.

Form 17C is a documentation of votes cast at polling booths across the country. Its first part consists of data such as electors assigned to each polling station, total number of registered voters in an area, number of electors who decided not to cast votes, those who were not allowed to cast votes, total number of votes recorded on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and information about ballot papers and paper seals. The second part of Form 17C includes the name of the candidate and the total votes they received. It also has data about whether the votes recorded at a booth are the same as the total votes polled. While the presiding officer puts together an account of votes recorded in Part-I of Form 17C and provides it to every polling agent, Part II of Form 17C is filled in by the counting station supervisor and is signed by each candidate or their representative. It is then checked by the returning officer.

ADRs plea asked ECI to upload scanned copies of voters entries for all polling stations after each phase of polling and to provide detailed constituency and polling station-wise turnout data in both absolute numbers and percentage form. ADR also sought the disclosure of candidate-wise results contained in a separate form, prescribed by ECI after the compilation of results.

ADRs plea followed ECIs April 30 announcement of the final voter turnout percentages for the first two phases of the general elections. Phase one saw a turnout of 66.14%, while phase two recorded 66.71%. However, ECI did not disclose the total number of voters per constituency, ADR said. These final figures were significantly higher than the provisional estimates previously released by the ECI, which were published over 10 days after the first phase and four days post the second phase of polling.

Citing these publications, ADR filed an application in the court urging ECI to release the absolute vote counts immediately and upload Form 17C on the ECI website. The plea highlighted a discrepancy exceeding 5% between the final turnout figures and the initial data released on polling days, suggesting an unusual increase of 5-6%.

Opposition parties have also raised alarms over the alleged delay in the release of final voter turnout data, demanding the immediate publication of authenticated data by ECI.

To be sure, voting percentages typically increase in the days following the release of the provisional turnout since it takes time for the poll workers to return from remote polling places located in difficult-to-reach geographic areas, depending on a variety of factors, including the weather. Re-polling in any constituency may also be the cause of the data update delay. The third phase of the ongoing polls addressed the longer lag experienced this time around.

In its affidavit filed in response to the ADRs plea, ECI on Wednesday submitted that such a request is not maintainable at this stage of the election process and would potentially disrupt the orderly conduct of the elections. The polling body cited a series of Supreme Court rulings stating that any petition that may have the impact of either creating a suspicion or impeding the conduct of the process and conclusion of elections would deserve to be rejected at the threshold itself.

The affidavit claimed there were logistical and practical challenges in complying with one of the petitioners demands -- that turnout figures recorded by the polling agents at the close of polling in Form 17C, which is then used to declare results, be uploaded online.

The legal regime with regard to Form 17C is peculiar that while it authorises the polling agent at the close of the poll to get a copy of Form 17C, a general disclosure of the nature as sought by the petitioner is not provided in the statutory framework, ECI said, arguing that the current procedures and disclosures are sufficient and legally mandated. It added that Form 17C is never uploaded immediately after polling.

ECI also said that a wholesome disclosure of Form 17C is amenable to mischief and vitiation of entire electoral space, adding the original Form 17C is only available in the strong room and a copy only with the polling agents whose signature it bears. Indiscriminate disclosure, public posting on the website increases the possibility of the images being morphed, including the counting results which then can create widespread public discomfort and mistrust in the entire electoral processes, its affidavit claimed.

Addressing allegations of delays and discrepancies in publishing voter turnout data, ECI stated that the data available on the Voter Turnout App is provisional and non-statutory, intended for transparency and public facilitation. The voter turnout data, as available on the Voter Turnout App (non-statutory), is only tentative or provisional in nature and through the secondary source. On the other hand, the votes counted are reported as per the statutorily created mechanisms, the affidavit said.

The tentative figures from secondary source, it added, can never be the final turnout figure as the final figures are on the basis of the statutory forms and the figures contained therein and are dealt according to the procedure laid down.

ECI said out that the final voter turnout figures are recorded in Form 17C at the close of polling, which is then used to declare results. The recorded data is statutory in nature. The results of the election are only declared by the Returning Officer (RO) thereafter as per Rule 64 of the Conduct of Election Rules 1961, its affidavit stated.

The poll body also criticised ADR for allegedly creating a false narrative and baseless suspicion regarding the election process. There is a consistent malafide campaign/design/efforts to keep on raising suspicion and doubt in every possible manner and by misleading assertions and baseless allegations regarding the conduct of Election Commission of India, it said.
New Delhi, The Supreme Court on Friday refused an NGO's plea to issue the Election Commission directions to upload polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website during the Lok Sabha polls, saying a "hands-off approach" needs to be adopted during the elections. SC refuses to direct EC to upload voter turnout data amid LS polls, says 'hands-off approach' needed

A vacation bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma said it cannot issue any such directions at the moment as five phases of polling have concluded and two remain and it would be difficult for the poll panel to mobilise manpower.

The top court adjourned the interlocutory application filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms to be listed before the regular bench after the elections and pointed out that prima facie it appears the prayers in the application are similar to the main petition pending since 2019 on the issue.

"This has to be taken with the pending writ petition because in between the elections, a hands-off approach has to be adopted," it said and pointed out that it would be difficult for the EC to mobilise manpower for uploading the voter turnout data on its website.

"Granting any relief in IA will amount to granting relief in the main petition which is pending," the bench said.

It said it needs to understand the ground reality and not overburden the poll panel by changing the process midway.

On May 17, the top court had sought within a week the EC's response on the NGO's plea seeking a direction to upload polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website within 48 hours of the conclusion of polling for each phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

The ADR has filed an interim application in its 2019 PIL seeking directions to the poll panel that "scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part-I " of all polling stations be uploaded immediately after the polls.

In its affidavit, the poll panel opposed the NGO's demand, stating that it will "vitiate" the electoral space and cause "chaos" in the poll machinery in the midst of the general elections.

The poll panel has said that there is no legal mandate to provide Form 17C to any person other than the candidate or his agent.

It has said that public posting of Form 17C which gives the number of votes polled in a polling station is not provided in the statutory framework and could lead to mischief and vitiation of the entire electoral space as it increases the possibility of the images being morphed.

"The petitioner is trying to create an entitlement when none exists in the law by way of filing an application in the middle of the election period. It is respectfully reiterated that for credible multiple practical reasons, the result as per the statutory mandate, is declared on the basis of the data contained in Form 17C at the time as prescribed under the statutory rule regime in existence," it said.

It further said that "indiscriminate disclosure" of polling station-wise voter turnout data and posting it on a website will cause chaos in the election machinery which is already in motion for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Seven Maoists were killed in an encounter with security personnel in a forest in Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh, state police said on Thursday, taking the total number of deaths of alleged insurgents to 112 this year. The Bastar region, which includes seven districts -- Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, Bijapur, and the nearby regions of Kondagaon and Narayanpur --- are where the core of the fight against the Maoist insurgency is focussed. (HT PHOTO)

Also Read: 30 Maoists surrender before security forces in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur

Police claimed to have recovered seven weapons and Maoist materials from the spot. Officials said that around 1,000 personnel from three police districts --- Bastar, Narayanpur and Dantewada --- where involved in the operation, which went on till the time of going to print late on Thursday.

The Narayanpur police in a statement said the encounter began around 11am. A joint team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) of Narayanpur, Bastar and Dantewada and Special Task Force (STF) was out on an anti-Naxal operation on Wednesday night after specific input of Maoists leaders of Platoon number 16 of CPI (Maoist) and members of Indrawati Area Committee. At around 11 am on Thursday an exchange of fire started. After the exchange of fire stopped, bodies of two Maoists have been recovered by Narayanpur police and more details are awaited, the statement said.

Also Read: 3 Maoists, including 2 women, killed in encounter in Maharashtras Gadchiroli

Superintendent of Police of Dantewada, Gaurav Rai, said five bodies were recovered by the Dantewada DRG. Two bodies were recovered by Narayanpur police in the morning and in the evening, Dantewada police, which was led by deputy superintendent of police ( DSP) Rahul Uike and DSP Ashish Netam, recovered five bodies. Five weapons were also recovered but the grade of weapons is yet to be ascertained because the encounter is still in progress, said Rai.

The identities of the Maoists was yet to be ascertained.

Rai said the operation was carried out at the tri-junction of Narayanpur, Bastar and Dantewada which is in the Abujhmad forest.

The Bastar region, which includes seven districts -- Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, Bijapur, and the nearby regions of Kondagaon and Narayanpur --- are where the core of the fight against the Maoist insurgency is focussed.

Since December, 2023, there has been a clear uptick in aggression from security forces, which have created 17 new forward camps in what were thus far thought to be core Maoist-controlled areas.

Also Read: Surge in Maoists giving up arms as security forces tighten grip

This includes areas inside Abhujmaad, a 4,000-square-kilometre expanse of forests that straddles Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Abhujhmaad is an amalgamation of the Gondi words Abujh and Maad that translates to the hills of the unknown --- an area that is yet unmapped by the government of India.

Several attempts at conducting preliminary surveys in the region have taken place since 2017, but each has been stymied by the extremely difficult geography, complete lack of infrastructure, and heavy Maoist fortification. It is because of this administrative vacuum, that most security officers in Bastar refer to the area as the last bastion of the Maoists, where the seniormost cadre, including the politburo and the central committee, of the CPI(Maoist) take refuge through the year.

With Thursdays incident, 112 Maoists have been killed so far this year in separate encounters with security forces in Chhattisgarh, much higher than 2023 when 22 ultras were killed.

On April 16, 29 Maoists were gunned down in an encounter with security forces in Kanker district which included two divisional committee members. On April 2, ten Maoists were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Bijapur district of Bastar region.
BJP MP Tejasvi Surya slammed Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday, saying that his character came out in the way efforts were made to silence and remove evidence in Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal's assault case. Speaking to the media in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, he said that the incident had exposed AAP's culture and DNA and urged Delhi residents to remove the AAP government. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya

Tejasvi Surya, as quoted by ANI, said, Kejriwal's character and the political culture of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) came to light after this incident. I also want to tell the people of Delhi that if women want to have a safe and secure environment, then they should remove the AAP government as soon as possible.

He added, Arvind Kejriwal and AAP are part of the urban naxal gang. Women in his party are not safe. The way efforts are being made to silence Swati Maliwal, remove evidence, and the atrocities committed on an MP demonstrate the culture of AAP... Arvind Kejriwal's character, political culture, and AAP's DNA have been exposed.

Swati Maliwal speaks up on assault against her at Kejriwal's residence

Swati Maliwal, in an interview with the news agency ANI, said that Bibhav Kumar, chief minister Kejriwal's aide, is a very influential and powerful man within the AAP. Maliwal claimed that Arvind Kejriwal was present at his residence during the incident when Bibhav Kumar assaulted her. This statement contradicts Kejriwal's assertion on Wednesday that he was not present at the location of the alleged assault.

This interview, which was released on Thursday marks the first time Maliwal has verbally recounted the incident, as her previous account was detailed in her FIR against Bibhav.

Calling Bibhav Kumar the raazdaar (the one who keeps secrets) of Delhi chief minister, Swati Maliwal alleged that Kejriwal's personal aide is far from being an ordinary personal assistant emphasising that the entire party is afraid of him.

Meanwhile, in his initial response to the alleged assault case, Arvind Kejriwal stated that there are two versions of the event and that the police should conduct a reasonable investigation into both accounts.

A case has been lodged against Kejriwal's aide following Swati Maliwal's complaint, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been set up to investigate the issue. After a late-night hearing on May 18, a Delhi court ordered Bibhav Kumar to be held in police custody for five days.
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday accused Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of targeting Muslim women and creating hurdles for them during the voting process. The Delhi unit of the BJP has called for "proper verification" of women voters wearing burqas. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi (HT File Photo)(HT_PRINT)

The Delhi unit of the BJP has told the Election Commission that there should be a special checking of women in burqas. During the recent Lok Sabha elections in Telangana, their candidate publicly insulted and harassed Muslim women. In every election, the BJP finds some excuse or the other to harass and target Muslim women, Asaduddin Owaisi said in an X post.

ALSO READ- Owaisi denies vote splitting claims, blames BJP for betraying Dalits

Earlier, the Delhi BJP delegation met with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on Wednesday, urging for thorough verification of women voters wearing 'burqa' or face masks during the polling on May 25, with a specific request for female officials to conduct the verification process.

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Owaisi said that the poll body has clear rules to not allow anyone vote without verification. He accused the BJP of harassing Muslim women with the special demand.

"The Election Commission has clear rules and regulations for women who do not observe purdah, whether they are in burqa or veil or mask, no one is allowed to vote without verification, so why did the BJP have to make such a special demand? Just target Muslim women, harass them and create obstacles in voting," he said.

ALSO READ- Fact Check: Viral image of Asaduddin Owaisi holding Lord Ram's portrait is doctored

In a separate incident, a case has been filed against Madhavi Latha, the BJP candidate for the Hyderabad Lok Sabha seat after a purported video surfaced showing her inspecting the voter ID cards of Muslim women at a polling booth. The case includes charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Representation of the People Act.

All seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi will go to polls on May 25. The election results will be announced on June 4.
Amid his frantic search for his wife, who worked in the Amudan Chemicals factory in Dombivli, Amit Khanvilkar received a call asking him to visit the Shastri Nagar hospital in the area on Thursday. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) officials carry a dead body on a stretcher at the site of a blast at a chemical factory in Dombivli, on the outskirts of Mumbai, India(REUTERS)

At the hospital, Amit went numb after he was shown the bodies of two women, charred beyond recognition. He somehow maintained his composure to look at the bodies from head to toe.

Amit told the media at the hospital that he nearly went blank after his eyes fell on a finger of one of the two victims.

From the ring on the finger, Amit knew it was his wife Riddhi Amit Khanvilkar , the mother of his 12-year-old son.

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Riddhi worked at Amudan Chemicals, located in Phase 2 of Dombivli MIDC, where a blast and resultant fire on Thursday killed nine and injured over 60. She had joined the accounts department of the company just three months ago.

Amit , who works in a lab in Palghar, said he was at their home in the Manpada area of Dombivli when he learnt about the blast.

He called Riddhi but could not get through to her. I informed my friends and we circulated her pictures on social media, he said.

Amit said he then received a call from the civic-run Shastri Nagar hospital where he was shown two charred bodies. He identified one of them to be of Riddhi from a gold ring on her finger.

Amit said the blast has turned his world upside down.

The family of Rohini Kadam , who worked with Riddhi, also identified her body at the hospital. Rohini lived with her parents and siblings at Ajde village in Manpada. Her inconsolable family members said Rohini and Riddhi lost their lives for no fault.
Twenty five years ago, I along with Hindustan Times photographer Pradeep Bhatia entered the Kargil war theatre this week and were greeted by whizzing sound of Pakistan artillery shrapnel fired from across the LoC as we crossed the Suru River. A file photo of a Bofors gun in action at Dras sector during the 1999 Kargil war.

The Shia town was bursting with anxiety as artillery firing on the town with Indian Army ammunition dump as the target was a routine affair and started after the first call for prayer was made from the local mosque.

The Pakistan artillery firing at Kargil did not come as a surprise as I had covered escalation in artillery duels in this sector for the previous two years from Hindustan Times.

My friend Pradeep Bhatia lost his life in a car bomb attack in Srinagar on August 10, 2000, more than a year after India under caretaker NDA government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee won the limited war on July 26, 1999.

Even though the war ended a quarter of century ago, it has critical lessons for India when it comes to its principal military adversaries China and Pakistan. The fundamental lesson of Kargil war, which was replayed by Hamas terrorist group against Israel on October 7, 2023 medieval massacre, is expect the unexpected.



ALSO READ: Why 1999 Kargil war turned out to be a game-changer for Indian military

The Indian Army was always prepared for cross-LoC infiltration by Pakistan jihadists but were surprised when the Pakistan Army under guise of terrorists held Indian territory across a 200 km frontage from Kaobali Gali in Mushkoh to Chortbat La in Batalik sector.

Taking advantage of unheld gaps of the Indian Armys counter-insurgency grid and the India-Pak bonhomie arising out of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees historic bus trip to Lahore via Attari border, the then Pakistan Army Chief Gen Pervez Musharraf betrayed his own prime minister Nawaz Sharif and ordered Northern Light Infantry troops across the LoC in Kargil sector.

National Security is priority one for BJP leaders at Centre

After PM Vajpayee publicly announced that Pakistani intruders would be evicted from Kargil, the Indian Army at the loss of 527 braves and injuries to another 1,363 personnel did the job and booted out Musharrafs troops from the glaciated terrain of Kargil.

The humiliation of the Pakistan Army at Kargil was the real reason why then PM Nawaz Sharif, a genuine supporter of India-Pak ties, was dethroned by Musharraf in a military coup later in October that year.

So the key takeaway from the limited war was that the Indian Army should always be vigilant to threats from the Pakistan Army as well as the Chinese Army as was demonstrated by the PLA under directions from President Xi Jinping during the May 2020 transgressions in East Ladakh.

The second key lesson was the advent of modern technology like drones and stand-off precision-guided delivery platforms in the theatre and the end of World War II air-land battles tactics. One must not forget that it was Israel which provided the Searcher Mark II UAVs for surveillance of Kargil heights and the litening pods for laser guided bombs used by IAF to destroy Pakistan Army at Muntho Dalo and Tiger Hill.



The war also spurred Indias defence cooperation with the US, who later supplied weapon-locating radars and built on existing military ties with France whose Mirage-2000 fighters ensured that Pak troops could not sleep after IAF was given a green signal on May 26, 1999. Today, it is the French Rafale fighter, US heavy lift transport aircraft and Israels drones that lead Indias deterrence against its enemies.



ALSO READ: Lesson learnt and unlearnt from Kargil war

The third key lesson was that the Indian Armed Forces were ready to deliver at any point of time if there was strong political will. Despite Congress taking potshots at the BJP-led government, PM Vajpayee came out with flying colours, as he not only salvaged Indias military reputation but also political credibility by turning down then-US President Bill Clintons invite to Blair House in Washington on July 4 to ensure that visiting PM Sharif would order withdrawal of Pak troops.

Just like Vajpayee, PM Narendra Modi has been decisive when dealing with military shenanigans of either Pakistan or China. The firm Indian response to Uri and Pulwama terror strikes in the form of surgical strikes and air attack on Balakot as well as taking on the PLA on South banks of Pangong Tso on August 29-31, 2020 reveals the decisive current political leadership of India.



ALSO READ: Strengthen Modis hands... hes going to see you through this stormy period, says Jaishankar

PM Modis past record shows that India will not only stand up but also punish any symmetrical or asymmetrical aggression. Today, Indias bilateral ties with China and Pakistan are in a deep freeze due to aggression from Communist dictator in the north and a military junta-ruled state to the west.

The fourth key takeaway from Kargil was restructuring the command and control in the Indian Armed Forces by creating a post of Chief of Defence Staff as recommended by the Kargil Review Committee. While the key advisors of Manmohan Singh government were against vesting all military powers in a CDS, it was the Modi government that cleared the post of CDS and paved the way for on-going theaterization of military commands to ensure synergy between the Army, Navy and the Air Force.

The bifurcation of the post of Principal Secretary to PM and National Security Advisor was also a recommendation of the Committee and has worked well with the current government.

The final takeaway from the three month war at Kargil heights is the need for India to be aatamnirbhar or self-reliant in military platforms and ammunition.

The Kargil war and the Operation Parakaram in 2002 revealed gaps in Indias military efforts as platforms and ammunition were purchased at the last minute and at much higher rates. It was Manohar Parrikkar as the Defence Minister who ensured that India kept enough inventory and supplies to handle a 10 day war.

Today, the Indian Army has declared self-reliance in ammunition for the first time after several decades and key platforms are either being manufactured or planned to be manufactured in India.

With PM Narendra Modi expected to return to power on June 4 for the third time, the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign will be put on the highest priority with defined deliveries and accountability. India under Modi has a functional nuclear triad with high survivability and delivery platforms that can deter any global power, particularly China. Indias relationship with Pakistan has finally de-hyphenated with the latter confined to playing a lackey of the Communist dictator up north.
A helicopter carrying seven people, including six pilgrims, made an emergency landing near Kedarnath in Uttarakhand due to a technical issue on Friday morning. Helicopter carrying pilgrims makes emergency landing near Kedarnath due to technical issue.(X/@realkaypius)

All passengers, including the pilot, are safe, an official said, PTI reported.

Kedarnath helicopter emergency landing video here

CCTV footage of the incident has now surfaced, showing the helicopter trying to land on the helipad but failed. However, the pilot was able to land the copter just a few meters away from the helipad in an open field.

ALSO READ- Char Dham Yatra: Uttarakhand govt bans VIP darshan; curbs video shooting

Pilot kept his cool and took a quick decision

Rudraprayag district magistrate Saurabh Gaharwar said that a helicopter took off from the Sirsi helipad for Kedarnath early on Friday. Shortly after, it developed a technical issue in its rear motor, leading the pilot to make an emergency landing just a few meters from the Kedarnath helipad.

Gaharwar praised the pilot's quick thinking and calmness, which prevented a major accident. The pilot kept his cool and took a quick decision, averting a major mishap, he said.

All passengers were safe, and the pilgrims continued their journey to the temple. The incident happened around 7 am, and further investigations are ongoing, he added.

ALSO READ- Char Dham Yatra 2024: Offline registration suspended till May 31 amid tourist surge

Huge rush of pilgrims for Chardham

There has been an unprecedented rush of devotees visiting the Himalayan temples during the yatra's initial days.

Uttarakhand chief secretary Radha Raturi urged Chardham pilgrims on Thursday to register for their visits to Kedarnath, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Gangotri and follow their allotted dates to avoid problems. The pilgrimage started earlier this month when the shrines reopened after winter.

Opinion- Char dham pilgrimage needs to be better regulated

Due to a large number of devotees visiting the temples in the early days of the yatra, Raturi and other officials are repeatedly asking pilgrims to follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey for everyone.
For the better part of two decades, Zafar Habibs identity has weighed heavily on his shoulders. It has followed him around stubbornly since his early school days and refuses to let go now, even within the walls of the classroom where he studies history as an undergraduate student. Zafar Habib, 20 (HT Photo)

It started when I was pretty young, says the 20-year-old. The bullying in school because of my name.

In school, on playgrounds, at birthday parties, even in tuition classes  name-calling, abuse, even physical violence  the years of bullying wrecked him.

The first few times, around the time I was in Class 2, I probably didnt realise what was happening. They would just call me Habib and snigger, he said.

It didnt take long for the name-calling to turn violent.

It must have been as early as 2011-12. I reached school early and went to class to keep my bags when two other boys started taunting me using my surname as usual and then one boy pushed me against the wall, says Habib, his fists clenched, the ripples of trauma inescapable as his 6ft-tall frame shudders.

But you also learn to stand up for yourself when you grow up.

Succour was only to be found within his three-bedroom home in Mukherjee Nagar in north Delhi, where he healed by hiding within the comforting jackets of paperbacks and the riffs of indie music.

Habib grew up in a home largely unhindered by economic encumbrances. His parents, both professors  his mother of physics and father of mathematics  pushed him to read against the grain and channel his experience into critical thought.

They have been through all the bad experiences and the bullying, but they never tried to influence or encroach on my beliefs, he says, visibly more at ease revisiting a safe space.

He relaxes back into his chair as the years of academic exposure frames his trauma responses.

They encouraged me to mould my experiences into strengths and lucid ideologies, he says.

Now in college, Habibs anger and hurt have found release in his growing political consciousness. And, he said, his identity would dictate the electoral choices he makes on May 25, when he casts his vote at a polling booth in Mukherjee Nagar, as one of the 15-million people eligible to exercise their franchise in the national capital.

Voting is my right as a citizen and I intend to do my part in building the countrys future, one that is hopefully not marred by feelings of repulsion towards certain communities. All communities can co-exist, as we have seen throughout the history of our nation, he says, this time with hope, with the possibility of a future free of bullying and discrimination.

Even 12 or 13 years ago, young children knew whom to bully on the basis of religion and identity. If that sentiment is further fanned, what is the future of our society?

Habib is part of a cohort of 18 million people who will exercise their franchise for the first time in the ongoing general elections, their aspirations and concerns shaping the battle for the 18th Lok Sabha.

For much of his childhood, Habib wanted to change schools  the most obvious and simple escape.

My parents were worried too. I refused to go to school, because I was scared. I remember a conversation between my parents about me taking my mothers maiden surname, which is Hindu or even just getting schooled at home, he says.

The resistance to going to school got to a point where I would deliberately cause a scene to miss the school bus, because in my mind, once you get on the bus, theres no going back,  Habib says.

After that, I stopped fighting and accepted it.

But he admits that the discrimination didnt germinate with him. His parents, an interfaith couple who eloped, werent insulated from similar tensions.

My mother is a Hindu from Delhi and my father is a Muslim from Aligarh, he says.

His parents were flung headlong into a struggle for acceptance and peace decades ago; Habib underlines that the present is only an evolution of the past. In the 12-odd years since he was first bullied, the abuse has transformed.

What was once physically targeted at me is now more tacit, in all the avenues around me, dictating my life, says the student of Shiv Nadar University in Greater Noida.

And the wounds are deep, often triggering.

Even a professor making a simple and innocent remark like, Eid aa raha hain, Zafar sabko biryani khilaega (Eid is coming, Zafar will treat everyone to biryani) makes me feel uncomfortable and targeted. I do not want that kind of attention, he says.

So when the choice came, he turned to history for answers and for closure.

I enjoy history a lot. It literally traces how our society came to be. The thing about history is that its written and done and you cannot change it at your whims, he said.

Zafar said he has always been inclined towards history and likes to read outside what is assigned in his curriculum as well.

He points to what he calls disparities in what is handed out as reading material at schools and universities, and insists that Muslims cannot be seen only as invaders.

There are no moral implications in history. This narrative of good and bad should not be pushed on to young minds, Habib says.

So, he says, I am voting for freedom of expression and a society without such discrimination.

When he feels cornered, Habib finds comfort in his hostel room, in the company of video games and an acoustic guitar.Im a part-time student and a full-time indie music fanatic, he says.

He hopes to continue his studies till he becomes a professor, just like his parents.

I am surrounded by good friends now and I love studying. I want to stay in university for as long as possible, just to freeze this moment.
SW China's Chongqing emerges as hub for high-tech auto manufacturing

People's Daily Online) 13:19, May 24, 2024

Robotic arms work on a production line at Chinese automaker Changan Automobile's factory in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Liu Yi)

In a sprawling factory in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, hundreds of robots worked in unison, welding, positioning, and assembling components for automaker Changan Automobile's latest electric vehicles on May 20.

In the welding workshop, over 500 robotic arms worked in perfect coordination, twisting at angles for welding and moving laterally for positioning and hanging, resembling a real-life reenactment of the "Transformers" movie franchise.

"Our factory's No. 1 flexible production line features more than 150 robotic arms that work in tandem with precision jigs," said Li Xingwang, a workshop guide. "These robots handle the most complex welding processes, ensuring that every vehicle component is crafted with perfect accuracy."

Vehicles undergo a rain test at Chinese automaker Changan Automobile's factory in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Liu Yi)

In the final assembly workshop, seats, tires, batteries, and various other components converged on the assembly lines to form new energy vehicles, which then underwent appearance inspections.

"After passing multiple tests, these cars can leave the factory," said Yao Yuqing, supervisor of the manufacturing management office of the factory's No. 1 final assembly workshop.

"There are many technological innovations in the final assembly workshop. The ADAS calibration technology, for example, allows us to simulate and test the vehicle's intelligent driving functions more precisely, making high quality a hallmark of our brand," Yao said.

Vehicles line up for quality inspection at Chinese automaker Changan Automobile's factory in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Liu Yi)

With a century-long history, Changan Automobile is now shifting gears to new energy vehicles, Yao noted, explaining that the company is continuously increasing customer loyalty and building a strong reputation through high-quality services.

"With a good reputation, our brand will naturally grow stronger," Yao said proudly.

Emphasizing innovation-driven development, Changan Automobile has continuously advanced the intelligent transformation of its workshops and upgraded its production lines.

The automaker's factory in Chongqing has achieved 100 percent automation for all key processes, selling products to customers worldwide.

Staff members carefully inspect newly manufactured cars at Chinese automaker Changan Automobile's factory in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Liu Yi)

New cars in the final assembly workshop at Chinese automaker Changan Automobile's factory in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Liu Yi)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Adalberto Aldo Toledo is a city hall reporter with The San Francisco Chronicle covering the mayor and Board of Supervisors. He is a Venezuelan American from a family of longtime journalists.

Before joining the Chronicle in 2023, he reported on Peninsula governments and breaking news for the San Jose Mercury News. He also has bylines in the Dallas Morning News, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and Champaign, Illinois News-Gazette.

Raised in Texas, he studied journalism with a print news focus at the University of North Texas Mayborn School of Journalism, where he worked as News Editor for the North Texas Daily student newspaper.
In a big relief to Ramakrishna Reddy, YSR Congress Partys Macherla MLA in Andhra Pradeshs Palnadu district, the state high court on Thursday directed the police not to arrest him till June 5, in a case pertaining to destruction of an electronic voting machine inside a polling booth on May 13, people familiar with the matter said. Ramakrishna Reddy, who has gone incognito since the Macherla police filed a case against him, filed a lunch motion petition before a single judge bench (ANI)

Reddy, who has gone incognito since the Macherla police filed a case against him, filed a lunch motion petition before a single judge bench of the state high court headed by Justice Jyothirmayi, through his lawyer S Niranjan Reddy, seeking bail.

After hearing the arguments of the petitioner and the prosecution, the bench passed interim orders directing that the police should not take any action against the MLA till 10 am on June 5, a day after the declaration of results for the assembly and Lok Sabha elections in the state.

The bench also asked Ramakrishna Reddy not to intimidate the opponents or threaten the witnesses. The court directed that the Election Commission keep a watch on the movements of MLA.

During the course of arguments, the MLAs lawyer brought to the notice of the bench that the EC had ordered the police to book a case against the MLA based on a video posted on social media by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) general secretary Nara Lokesh.

How can the EC rely on the video posted by a TDP leader? It could be a morphed video, he argued.

He recalled that the police had registered a case saying some unknown persons had damaged the EVM. It was only after the TDP brought out the video, the police included Ramakrishna Reddys name in the case without serving him any notice giving him an opportunity to explain his stand, the lawyer pointed out.

A video of the YSRCP MLA smashing the EVM and VVPAT machine by banging them on the floor at the Palwaigate polling station in Macherla went viral on social media on May 21.

Based on the video footage, the ECI ordered a thorough inquiry into the incident and ordered the arrest of Ramakrishna Reddy.

The MLA was booked under sections 143 (unlawful assembly), 147 (rioting by use of force), 448 (criminal trespassing), 427 (mischief by causing damage), 353 (criminal force to assault a public servant), 452 (trespass to cause hurt and wrongfully restrain) and 120 (B) (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code, besides Sections 131 and 135 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property (PDPP) Act, 1984.

Earlier, state chief electoral officer (CEO) MK Meena told reporters that eight police teams were on the lookout for Ramakrishna Reddy.

On Wednesday, the police found a couple of vehicles part of the MLAs convoy near Hyderabad. The MLAs driver and security guard have been detained for questioning, he said, adding that the MLA would be arrested very soon.

The CEO said the presiding officer and assistant polling officer of the booth where the MLA smashed the EVM for failing to provide information about the incident were placed under suspension for dereliction of duties on the polling day.

Meanwhile, a tense atmosphere prevailed in Macherla following a call given by the TDP leaders for Chalo Macherla to call on the party workers who were injured in the post-poll violence in the area.

Palnadu superintendent of police (SP) Malika Garg said no permission would be given for any rallies or meetings in Macherla in view of the sensitive law and order situation and enforcement of Section 144 of Criminal Procedure Code in the area.

The police placed several leaders of the TDP in different parts of the state under house arrest to foil their Chalo Macherla programme.

TDP leaders Nakka Anand Babu and K. Srinivasa Rao were placed under house arrest in Guntur. Former minister Devineni Uma was stopped from leaving his house in Gollapudi.

Similarly, TDP politburo member Varla Ramaiah was kept under house arrest in Vijayawada.

TDP candidate from Macherla assembly constituency, Julakanti Brahmananda Reddy has already been under house arrest since the polling day on May 13.

The chief electoral officer said it was not the right time for the TDP leaders to go to Macherla at this juncture, as the situation was just returning to normalcy.

Any provocative action from the TDP leaders would escalate violence once again. Hence, we asked the police not to permit any such visits by the TDP leaders, Meena added.
As the toll from heat waves rises  in just one year, 2003, in Europe alone, 70,000 died from a record-setting heat wave  countries are starting to explore extreme measures to get around extreme temperatures.

* China has begun to repurpose its World War 2-era air-raid shelters, to allow people to seek shelter during heat waves. In cities such as Hangzhou on its east coast, Wuhan at its centre, and Hebei near Beijing, these shelters have been fitted with free wifi, TV sets, table-tennis tables, seating areas and access to water, refreshments and sachets of oral rehydration solutions.

* Vienna became one of Europes first cities to combat urban heat, when it introduced fog showers in 2018. These showers spray a fine mist into the air, to cool pedestrians and offer respite to those waiting for public transport, for instance, or even working outdoors. The showers are concentrated in 22 public spaces for now. They are activated by a temperature sensor that turns the system on when ambient temperatures reach 25 degrees Celsius.

* One of the warmest cities in Germany, Frankfurt, has pushed for adaptive design. One of its innovations consists of ventilation corridors, which are stretches of land where there are no high buildings and where large stretches of trees offer shade and counteract the urban heat island effect. The absence of high buildings allows cool air to circulate more easily too.

* Madrid is turning existing public infrastructure into climate shelters. Designated heat shelters include air-conditioned public libraries, community centres and subsidised municipal pools. An app allows citizens in distress from the heat to locate their nearest climate shelter.

A home built into cooling rock, in Coober Pedy, Australia. (Shutterstock)

* In Coober Pedy, an opal-mining town in Australia where temperatures routinely reach 52 degrees Celsius in summer, an existing approach to housing could offer tips for the future.

About 60% of the population lives in homes built into the sandstone and siltstone rock, with much of the town built four metres away from the exterior of the rock. This keeps indoor temperatures at below 23 degrees C. While this works well in arid regions such as Coober Pedy, it can be problematic for areas with higher humidity levels. An example is the London Underground, where tunnels routinely grapple with black mould.

In India, meanwhile, roofs are being painted white in subsidised government projects, and startups are working on battery-operated air-conditioned helmets for outdoor workers such as traffic police personnel. But as more towns and cities breach new highs  Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh hit 43 degrees Celsius this month; Chandigarh hit 44.5, its highest in 22 years  more needs to be done.

We have a huge population that works out in the open. Any solution needs to be primarily focussed on this most vulnerable section, says Udit Bhatia, assistant professor of civil engineering at IIT Gandhinagar. One cannot approach the dry heat of Delhi and the humid heat of Kolkata the same way. Populations are dense and unevenly distributed. It is important to take these factors into consideration.
Extravagant epics, political dramas and at times violent tales of the human body: The 77th edition of the world's top international film festival has a wide range of topics, but just a few standout works. Director Ali Abbasi wasn't afraid to take on the Trump empire in his film 'The Apprentice,' which screened at Cannes.(Sebastien Botella/MAXPPP/dpa/picture alliance )

"This is my 33rd Cannes festival and it's by far the worst I've ever seen," a weary Australian critic moaned to me over coffee as we discussed the high- but mostly lowlights of the 77th Cannes Film Festival. This is "only" my 23rd time, but I had to agree that for the world's most important film fest, 2024 has not been a banner year.

ALSO READ: Cannes 2024: Aditi Rao Hydari, Urvashi Rautela, Bella Hadid, Nick Jonas and other celebs turn heads on day 10 red carpet

On paper, the lineup looked good. New films from arthouse masters included David Cronenberg's philosophical horror work "The Shrouds," Paolo Sorrentino's modern-day fable "Parthenope," Yorgos Lanthimos' star-studded "Kinds of Kindness," and Paul Schrader's Vietnam War-era drama "Oh, Canada." Then there were the potential studio blockbusters from George Miller ("Furiosa: A Mad Max Story") and Kevin Costner, whose "Horizons  An American Saga: Chapter 1" is the first of a planned four-part Western epic. Yet with most of these films, it seemed like their directors had just been going through the motions.

ALSO READ: Cannes 2024: From timeless bob to tousled braid; 5 must-try hairstyles inspired by Cannes red carpet glamour

And then there was "Megalopolis," Francis Ford Coppola's $120 million (110 million) sci-fi extravaganza that the "Godfather" director has been working on for the past 40 years. An epic reimagining of the Roman Empire in a retro-futuristic New York City, the film promised to be both studio-sized spectacle and arthouse classic at once.

'Time to make movies political again'

For this film buff, "Megalopolis" was a gloriously silly and absurd mash-up of genres and tropes. One minute it evokes "Citizen Kane" with its epic story of American ambition and hubris. The next it feels like an inspirational video narrated by billionaire Elon Musk, then like a high school theater production. "Megalopolis" has its moments  one scene breaks the fourth wall in a way that felt audacious and truly revolutionary, but in the end it is an overlong mess.

Aside from "Megalopolis," the film that attracted the most attention in Cannes was "The Apprentice," a look at the making of Donald Trump from Danish-Iranian director Ali Abbasi and staring Sebastian Stan as "The Donald." Abbasi's portrait explores the former US president's rise to power in 1980s America under the tutelage of firebrand right-wing attorney Roy Cohn, played by "Succession" star Jeremy Strong. The film doesn't pull punches: Abbasi includes a scene in which Trump rapes his first wife, Ivana, and it graphically depicts him getting liposuction for his love handles and scalp reduction surgery for his bald spot.

The Trump campaign, calling the movie "pure malicious defamation," has already threatened to sue. Abbasi brushed that off  "Everybody talks about him suing a lot of people; they don't talk about his success rate though"  and defended his portrayal of the once and perhaps future US president.

"There is no nice metaphorical way to deal with the rising wave of fascism, there's only the messy way," he said after the film's Cannes premiere. "I think the problem with the world is that the good people have been quiet for too long. So I think it's time to make movies relevant. It's time to make movies political again."

Body horror and gender transition

The best movies at Cannes this year were the political and the polemic. "The Substance," from French director Coralie Fargeat, is a campy body horror about an older actress (Demi Moore) replaced by a younger star (Margaret Qualley) that explores, in bloody, gory detail, society's ghoulish obsession with youth and beauty.

Fargeat noted that the violence in the film was a metaphor for the violence, emotional and physical, that men inflict on women, and that women inflict on themselves in their pursuit of unrealistic ideals of beauty. "I don't know any woman that doesn't have an eating disorder or some other thing that they do that does violence to their bodies," Fargeat said, adding that she chose to show the violence on screen "in an extreme way because I think this violence is very extreme."

US director Sean Baker also took a swipe at toxic patriarchy and its treatment of female bodies in "Anora." The tale of a young sex worker in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, who gets romantically entangled with the son of a Russian oligarch plays like a screwball comedy, but the jokes don't lessen the impact of the film's message of female exploitation.

French filmmaker Jacques Audiard delivered the festival's standout crowd pleaser with "Emilia Perez," a Mexico-set crime musical-cum-gender transition redemption tale starring Zoe Saldana, Selena Gomez and Spanish trans actress Karla Sofia Gascon in a jaw-dropping performance.

Escaping Iran, premiering at Cannes

My pick for the Palme d'Or, the festival's top prize, is "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," from Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof. Rasoulof fled Iran last week, escaping by foot over the mountains after he was sentenced to eight years in prison for his political films and his political activism against the Tehran regime. He has found refuge in Germany and, miraculously, will attend Cannes for his film's premiere.

These travails alone are worthy of the highest recognition. But "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" is also a cinematic masterpiece. The story of an investigative judge for Iran's Revolutionary Court who begins to turn against his own family as unrest ignites around the country, it is a deeply moving exploration of how authoritarian politics infect and corrupt at the deepest, most personal level.

The Cannes jury, headed by Greta Gerwig, will announce the Palme d'Or winner on Saturday
What does it take to lead like a woman, in a heavily male-dominated field such as public health? It takes a lot of resilience, says Dr Soumya Swaminathan, and it takes confidence. It also helps to remember, she adds, that as lonely as it might seem at the top, you are never really alone.

Women are fighting the same fight in every country. The top women scientists and researchers around the world are navigating the common challenges of confronting inflated male egos and fighting for the recognition they deserve. It is one more thing that ties us all together and keeps us going.

Other things to keep one going, she says, laughing, can be as simple as a WhatsApp group. During her years as deputy director-general for programmes at the World Health Organization (WHO; 2017 to 2019), Dr Swaminathan was part of a WhatsApp group called Amazing Ladies of Geneva, created by healthcare leaders from around the world who were posted in that city. It became a safe space and an integral learning ground.

The group was made up of women conducting research, developing guidelines, battling to stop the spread of tuberculosis (TB) and AIDS, fundraising and overseeing the disbursal of aid. They discussed global events and trends, and each others personal lives.

Late-night chats ranged from small wins and losses of the day to the pain of being away from family. There was also a lot of laughter, impromptu dinner plans, and getaways to the French Alps, says Dr Swaminathan, 65. There were times when some of us went through very trying times, even wanting to give up on these positions of power. We exchanged our strategies for coping, and carried on, while providing a shoulder to each other when needed.

If it seems like the fellowship of women has meant a lot to her, perhaps thats because the paediatrician and clinical scientist has spent years in one hot seat after another. After her time studying drug-resistant TB in children, and interconnections between HIV and TB, she served as director of the National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT), in 2012. Her pioneering work there included expanding the use of molecular diagnostics for TB surveillance and care, and conducting large field trials of TB treatment for the underprivileged.

By 2015, she was the only woman applicant interviewing for the role of director-general of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). She got the job, becoming only the second woman to head the Council (after Dr GV Satyavati, in 1994).

Through hours of uncomfortable meetings with experts who often seemed confused by her seat at the table, she had her first big win when she successfully blocked the rollout, in 2016, of a dengue vaccine developed by a French company.

There wasnt enough evidence that it was safe for children, she says. Amid pressure from vested interests and booming threats of Mantriji ko bolenge (Well be talking to the minister about this), she was vindicated when the vaccines registration was suspended in the Philippines in 2017, amid concerns over its side effects.

***

Then came 2019. WHO created the position of chief scientist early that year, and appointed Dr Swaminathan to the role. Even as it was taking shape  she was pondering questions of how they should define their mission; what research they ought to push for  her questions were answered in a way she couldnt have imagined, and wouldnt have asked for.

Covid-19 struck.

Through the pandemic, until 2022, Dr Swaminathan served in this capacity, building a new science division and leading a team of 100 people to develop a roadmap for Covid-19 research and release new evidence-based guidelines for the public.

In her biography, At the Wheel of Research (March; Bloomsbury), written by Anuradha Mascarenhas, Dr Swaminathan talks about the panic and misinformation they battled, alongside the virus, and the anger, abuse and even death threats that she and other scientists received.

The book pays tribute to her parents: the teacher and educationist Mina Swaminathan, and of course MS Swaminathan, the man credited as the father of Indias Green Revolution.

Growing up on the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (then Pusa Institute) campus in Delhi, Dr Swaminathan recalls how she had wanted to be a vet and a geneticist. She speaks of how her dreams of a career in science were encouraged by her parents and by their friends, who included scientists and Nobel laureates such as CV Raman, Vikram Sarabhai and Norman Borlaug.

Eventually, she would choose another set of patients often unable to express their pain: children. Through her career, her parents values informed her work, she says.

Her mother had helped found Mobile Creches, the daycare programme for children of construction workers. She was fearless and outspoken, and instilled in me and my two sisters a sense of social justice and equity. My father impressed upon us the importance of humility. I remember him saying the Green Revolution came about only because of the synergy between scientists, politicians and farmers, describing it as a symphony orchestra.

In a time when a lot of lip service is paid to the idea of more women in STEM, her biography also pays tribute to allies from her early years. As a researcher at NIRT Chennai in the early 2000s, she recalls, she was reluctant to attend HIV-TB meets in New Delhi. Tired of being sidelined at these sessions, which were dominated by older men, she asked Dr PR Narayanan, then director of NIRT, to stop sending her there.

He reminded me that I was the one working at the grassroots level, I was the technical expert, and that I probably knew more than most of the people in that room, she recalls. I realised I would have to push my way into a system that was clearly not built to be inclusive.

As chairperson of the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, Dr Swaminathan wants to continue her fathers mission of vital research, synergy and a symphony of change. She aims to make health a key focus area of the Foundation, with an eye on adapting healthcare systems to better cope with the demands of the unfolding climate emergency.

Training aanganwadi and ASHA workers, for instance, should be a priority, as heatwaves become more intense and more prolonged and floods more rampant, she says. Digital health innovations, possibly enhanced by artificial intelligence, will be the key to making the best use of data, to inform programmes and policies.

What gives her most hope, meanwhile, she adds, is the young people of today. They are so confident and articulate. They know how to speak their minds and achieve their goals. If we really want to build a scientific cadre in India, we need to invest much more and much earlier, at the school-level, she says, to get more young people into science, and to support the continuation of careers, especially for women.
While travelling, luggage and suitcases are indispensable, serving as the reliable companions that keep your essentials safe and organised whether it is a weekend getaway or a global exploration. We understand the importance of finding a luggage suitcase that blends affordability with quality, ensuring hassle-free and enjoyable travels whether you're off to exotic destinations or exploring closer to home. Get adventure-ready with the best in affordable suitcases, travel smart, travel stylishly!

Affordable suitcases offer numerous benefits, providing cost savings while delivering practicality and functionality without compromising quality. Featuring innovative features like durable materials, smooth wheels, and ample storage space, they cater to the needs of modern travellers while offering excellent value for money.

Our curated list of top options simplifies the process of finding the perfect suitcase for your travel needs. Whether you prioritise durability, style, or versatility, our selection encompasses a range of options to suit every preference and budget. Say goodbye to endless scrolling and decision-making stress, explore our top picks today and embark on your next adventure in style!

Step into the world of seamless travel with the Safari Thorium Neo 8 Wheels 66 Cm Medium Check-in Trolley Bag, your ultimate companion for globetrotting adventures. Engineered from robust polycarbonate, this hard case luggage redefines durability, ensuring your belongings stay safe and secure throughout your journey. Its innovative 360-degree wheeling system effortlessly glides through bustling airports and busy streets, offering unmatched mobility and convenience. The striking graphite blue design not only exudes elegance but also makes a bold style statement, distinguishing you from the crowd. With ample storage space and thoughtful organisation features, this trolley bag caters to all your travel needs, whether it's a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation.

Specifications of Safari Thorium Neo 8 Wheels 66 Cm Medium Luggage Suitcase

Material: Polycarbonate

Wheels: 8 wheels for smooth manoeuvrability

Size: 66 cm Medium Check-in

Colour: Graphite Blue

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Durable polycarbonate construction Some customers report issues with screen and display buttons Effortless mobility with 360-degree wheeling system Mixed opinions on visibility and value Sleek graphite blue design adds sophistication

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers on Amazon generally appreciate the appearance, quality, and value of the suitcase, highlighting its sturdy construction and attractive design. However, some express concerns about scratch resistance and lock durability, suggesting room for improvement in these areas.

Why choose this product?

Choose this product for its stylish design, sturdy construction, and excellent value, making it a reliable companion for your travels. With its attractive appearance and durable build, it promises to meet your travel needs with both flair and functionality.

Embark on a journey of discovery with the Safari Ray 67 cms Medium Check-in Polycarbonate (PC) Hard Sided Luggage in Cyan, a true companion for the intrepid traveller. Embrace a world of boundless adventure with this meticulously crafted suitcase, where every detail speaks volumes about style, functionality, and durability. Glide through bustling airports and bustling streets alike with its four smooth-rolling wheels, while the robust polycarbonate shell safeguards your belongings with unwavering protection. Let your individuality shine through with the striking cyan hue, a vibrant expression of your unique personality amidst a sea of monotony. With its generous storage capacity and intuitive design, the Safari Ray suitcase isn't just luggage; it's a statement of sophistication and a testament to the spirit of exploration.

Specifications of Safari Ray 67 cms 4 Wheels 360 Degree Rotation Luggage Suitcase

Material: Polycarbonate (PC)

Size: 67 cms (Medium)

Wheels: 4 wheels with 360-degree rotation

Colour: Cyan

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Stylish design Scratch-prone surface Durable construction Limited colour options Smooth-rolling wheels Mixed durability reviews

What buyers are saying on Amazon?

Buyers on Amazon are praising the Safari Ray 67 cms Medium Check-in Polycarbonate Luggage for its stylish design, durability, and spacious interior. They appreciate its lightweight construction and smooth mobility, although some mention concerns about its waterproofing capabilities.

Why choose this product?

Choose the Safari Ray 67 cms Medium Check-in Polycarbonate Luggage for its stylish design, durable construction, and spacious interior, perfect for hassle-free travel. Its lightweight build and smooth mobility make it a convenient and reliable companion for all your journeys.

Also read: Best suitcase brands you must consider for your next expedition, top 6 options everyone loves

Enhance your travel experience with the Skybags Rubik 79 cms Large Check-in Luggage in classic black. Designed for convenience and style, this soft-sided suitcase offers ample storage space and effortless mobility, making it the perfect companion for your journeys. Crafted from durable polyester, it features four smooth-rolling wheels with a 360-degree rotation system, allowing you to navigate airports and streets with ease. The spacious interior provides plenty of room for your belongings, while the sleek black exterior adds a touch of sophistication to your travels. Whether you're embarking on a business trip or a vacation, the Skybags Rubik luggage ensures that you travel in comfort and style.

Specifications of Skybags Rubik 79 cms Luggage Suitcase:

Dimensions: 79 cms x 49 cms x 31 cms

Material: Polyester

Wheels: 4 wheels with 360-degree rotation

Colour: Black

Capacity: Large check-in size

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Ample storage space Limited colour options Effortless mobility Polyester material may lack durability Classic and stylish design Some customers reported zipper issues

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers like the comfort, portability, appearance, and value of the suitcase. For example, they mention it's soft, good-looking, lightweight, and good for travelling.

Why choose this product?

Choose the Skybags Rubik luggage for its sleek design, spacious interior, and smooth mobility, ensuring a stylish and convenient travel experience.

Unveil a world of vibrant travels with the Safari Pentagon Hardside Small Size Cabin Luggage Suitcase Bag in refreshing Green Lime. Crafted to accompany you on your expeditions, this suitcase exudes style and functionality in equal measure. Its compact size makes it perfect for short getaways or as cabin luggage for your flights, while the sturdy hardside construction ensures your belongings stay safe and secure. With smooth-rolling wheels and a telescopic handle, navigating through bustling airports becomes a breeze, allowing you to focus on your adventures ahead. Plus, the eye-catching green lime colour adds a touch of personality to your travel ensemble, making you stand out from the crowd wherever you go.

Specifications of Safari Pentagon Hardside Small Size Cabin Luggage Suitcase

Size: Small (55cm)

Type: Hardside Cabin Luggage

Colour: Green Lime

Wheels: Yes

Handle: Telescopic

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Stylish and vibrant design Material specifications not provided Compact size ideal for short trips Limited storage space compared to larger suitcases Sturdy construction ensures durability Some customers report issues with the durability of zippers and handles

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Some buyers experience concerns about scratches, dent marks, and functionality issues with the lock and handle, contributing to mixed opinions on size suitability, despite the overall praise for the suitcase's quality, colour, and sturdy build, appreciating its classy appearance and value for money.

Why choose this product?

Choose this product for its superior quality, stylish appearance, and excellent value, making it a reliable companion for your travels.

Also Read: Best kids luggage bags: Top 7 picks for hassle-free travel adventures with your little ones

Discover the Bullet (Medium) 66 cms Check-in Trolley Bag, a fusion of style and durability tailored for modern travellers. Engineered with a robust hardsided construction, this luggage offers superior protection against scratches and wear, ensuring your belongings remain secure throughout your journey. Equipped with eight spinner wheels and a TSA lock with anti-theft zippers, it guarantees effortless mobility and enhanced security for peace of mind. Suitable for both men and women, this suitcase boasts a generous 2000-day warranty, underscoring its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. With its sleek design and reliable functionality, the Bullet Trolley Bag is the perfect companion for travellers seeking elegance and resilience in their luggage.

Specifications of uppercase Bullet (Medium) 66 cms Trolley Suitcase

Size: Medium (66 cms)

Type: Check-in Trolley Bag

Material: Hardsided Luggage

Features: Anti-Scratch, 8 Spinner Wheels, TSA Lock, Anti-Theft Zippers

Warranty: 2000 Days

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Stylish design Price may be high for some Durable construction Limited colour options Secure TSA lock Some users report issues with zipper durability

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers rave about the Bullet Check-in Trolley Bag's high-quality construction and stylish appearance. They appreciate its durable, scratch-free hard body that can withstand the rigours of travel. The suitcase's interior design receives praise for its well-defined compartments and expandable laundry section, making organisation a breeze.

Why choose this product?

Choose this product for its durable, scratch-free design and excellent organisational features, ensuring a stylish and hassle-free travel experience.

Also read: Best luggage brands in India: Top luggage brands in India and their best products for you to explore

Luggage in Coral Teal Blue, your perfect travel companion for short trips and weekend getaways. This compact yet spacious suitcase is crafted from durable polypropylene, offering robust protection for your belongings. The vibrant coral teal blue colour ensures you travel in style, while the eight-wheel spinner system provides effortless 360-degree mobility. The Aristocrat Airpro features a well-organised interior with multiple compartments, making packing a breeze. With a sturdy handle and TSA lock for added security, this suitcase is designed to meet all your travel needs. Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, it's ideal for both men and women who value functionality and style in their luggage.

Specifications of Aristocrat Airpro 55 Cms Small Cabin Luggage Suitcase

Brand: Aristocrat

Model Name: Airpro

Dimensions: 55 x 37 x 24 cm

Weight: 2.8 kg

Material: Polypropylene

Colour: Coral Teal Blue

Wheel Type: 8-wheel spinner

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Durable polypropylene construction Limited capacity for longer trips Smooth 8-wheel spinner system for easy mobility The TSA lock can be tricky to operate initially Stylish and vibrant colour Not entirely scratch-resistant

What buyers are saying on Amazon?

Buyers appreciate the suitcase's stylish appearance, smooth wheels, and sturdy build, praising its perfect size for short trips. Some, however, find the TSA lock challenging to use and wish for better scratch resistance.

Why choose this product?

Choose this product for its durable construction, stylish design, and excellent manoeuvrability, ensuring a hassle-free and fashionable travel experience.

Also read: Best 23 kg luggage bags for travellers on the go: Top 10 options with multiple compartments

Meet the Scottish Model Polyester Soft-Side 66cm Medium Check-in Luggage Trolley Bag in a vibrant red colour, designed for the savvy traveller. This medium-sized trolley bag offers ample space for all your travel essentials while maintaining a lightweight and easy-to-handle structure. Made from durable polyester, it ensures your belongings are protected and organised throughout your journey. The soft-sided design allows for extra flexibility when packing, and the sturdy telescopic handle and smooth-rolling wheels make manoeuvring through crowded airports a breeze. With multiple compartments and an elegant design, the Scottish Model trolley bag combines functionality with style, making it a perfect choice for both business and leisure travellers.

Specifications of Scottish Model Polyester Soft-Side 66cm Luggage Trolley Bag

Brand: Scottish Model

Model: Medium Check-in Trolley Bag

Dimensions: 66 x 40 x 28 cm

Weight: 3.5 kg

Material: Polyester

Colour: Red

Wheel Type: 4-wheel spinner

Reasons to Buy Reasons to Avoid Lightweight and easy to handle Not as durable as hard-sided luggage Multiple compartments for organised packing Wheels may not be suitable for rough terrain Stylish and vibrant design Zipper lock offers less security than TSA lock

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Many buyers on Amazon praise the travel bag for its stylish design, strong build, and smooth-rolling wheels, highlighting it as excellent value for money.

Why choose this product?

Choose this product for its lightweight, stylish design and practical compartments, ensuring a hassle-free and organised travel experience.

Best value for money affordable suitcase:

Safari Ray 67 cms Luggage Suitcase

The Safari Ray 67 cms Luggage Suitcase stands out as a remarkable value for money option. Boasting four smooth-rolling wheels and a 360-degree rotation system, it offers effortless manoeuvrability through crowded airports and streets. Its durable build and scratch-resistant exterior ensure longevity, while the spacious interior with well-defined compartments caters to efficient packing. Available in a vibrant cyan colour, it adds a touch of style to your travels. Despite its budget-friendly price, this suitcase doesn't compromise on quality, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking functionality and affordability without sacrificing durability and style.

Best overall affordable suitcase:

Safari Thorium Neo 8 Wheels 66 Cm Medium Luggage Suitcase

The Safari Thorium Neo 8 Wheels 66 Cm Medium Luggage Suitcase stands out as the best overall choice for travellers. Its durable polycarbonate construction ensures longevity and protection for your belongings. The 360-degree wheeling system provides effortless mobility, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports and streets. The sleek graphite blue design adds a touch of elegance, suitable for both business trips and leisure vacations. With ample storage space and robust build quality, this suitcase promises a hassle-free and stylish travel experience. It's the perfect blend of functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

How does the suitcase balance affordability with durability and functionality?

Assessing the balance between price and quality is crucial. Consider factors such as the materials used, construction quality, and included features to determine if the suitcase offers long-term value for its price. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers to gauge the durability and functionality of the suitcase within its price range.

What features does the suitcase offer compared to its price competitors?

Evaluate the features provided by the suitcase in relation to its price point. Look for unique selling points, such as additional compartments, spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and warranty offerings, to determine if the suitcase offers sufficient value for its cost compared to other options in the same price range.

Factors to consider when purchasing affordable suitcases:

Price: Determine your budget range and look for suitcases within that price bracket.

Determine your budget range and look for suitcases within that price bracket. Durability: Assess the quality of materials and construction to ensure the suitcase can withstand regular use.

Assess the quality of materials and construction to ensure the suitcase can withstand regular use. Functionality: Consider features such as spinner wheels, expandable compartments, and TSA-approved locks for added convenience.

Consider features such as spinner wheels, expandable compartments, and TSA-approved locks for added convenience. Size and Capacity: Choose a suitcase that meets your travel needs in terms of size and capacity, ensuring it complies with airline restrictions.

Choose a suitcase that meets your travel needs in terms of size and capacity, ensuring it complies with airline restrictions. Weight: Opt for lightweight options to avoid exceeding baggage weight limits and for easier handling.

Opt for lightweight options to avoid exceeding baggage weight limits and for easier handling. Warranty: Check if the suitcase comes with a warranty for added protection against defects or damage.

Check if the suitcase comes with a warranty for added protection against defects or damage. Reviews: Read customer reviews to gain insights into the suitcase's performance, durability, and overall value for money.

Which brands are better for an affordable suitcase?

When it comes to affordable suitcases, some brands stand out for their quality and value. Skybags, Safari, and Aristocrat are among the top choices, offering a balance of durability, functionality, and affordability. Customers often praise these brands for their stylish designs, sturdy construction, and reasonable prices.

Top 3 features of the best affordable suitcases:

Best Affordable Suitcases Dimensions Colour Material Safari Thorium Neo 8 Wheels 66 Cm Medium Luggage Suitcase 66 cm Graphite Blue Polycarbonate Safari Ray 67 cms 4 Wheels 360 Degree Rotation Luggage Suitcase 67 cm Cyan Polycarbonate Skybags Rubik 79 cms Large Check-in Polyester Luggage Suitcase 79 cm Black Polyester Safari Pentagon Hardside Small Size Cabin Luggage Suitcase 55 cm Green Lime Polycarbonate UPPERCASE Bullet (Medium) 66 cms Trolley Suitcase 66 cm Black Polycarbonate Aristocrat Airpro 55 Cms Small Cabin Luggage Suitcase 55 cm Coral Teal Blue Polypropylene Scottish Model Polyester Soft-Side 66cm Luggage Trolley Bag 66 cm Red Polyester

FAQs on the best affordable suitcases:

What are the key factors to consider when choosing an affordable suitcase?

Consider factors like durability, size, weight, and features such as wheels and handles.

Are affordable suitcases less durable than expensive ones?

Not necessarily. Many affordable suitcases offer durable materials and construction, but it's essential to read reviews and check specifications.

Can affordable suitcases provide sufficient storage space for long trips?

Yes, many affordable suitcases come in various sizes, including large ones suitable for extended travel.

Do affordable suitcases come with warranty coverage?

Some brands offer warranty coverage, albeit it may vary in duration and terms compared to more expensive options.

Are there specific features to look for in an affordable suitcase for added convenience?

Look for features like expandable compartments, TSA-approved locks, and multidirectional spinner wheels to enhance convenience during travel.

Similar articles for you to read:

Best Skybags luggage: Pick from the top 6 choices combining style, durability, and functionality for travellers

Best kids luggage bags: Top 7 picks for hassle-free travel adventures with your little ones

Best luggage trolleys for travellers: Choose from top 10 spacious and sturdy picks

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
A rickshaw driver, 18, hailing from Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh, was ecstatic to meet King Charles III at Buckingham Palace last week after winning a coveted award for women's empowerment in London. At the Prince's Trust Awards in London on Wednesday, Arti was presented with the Amal Clooney Women's Empowerment Award, which bears the name of the well-known human rights attorney, as per reports. Arti, Pink E-Rickshaw Driver from UP, with King Charles III at a Buckingham Palace reception for Prince's Trust Award winners, in London. (PTI)

She received recognition for her efforts to inspire younger girls through the government's Pink E-rickshaw program, which offers safe transportation to other women, reported PTI.

I take pride in being able to inspire other girls who face similar challenges. This newfound independence has allowed me to see the world in a different light. Now, I am able to fulfil not only my dreams but also those of my daughter," said Arti to PTI. Arti has a five-year-old daughter for whom she has bought some cake and a pair of shoes on her very first visit to London.

She also addeed, It has been an unbelievably amazing experience, meeting the King who was so nice and sent his namaste to my family back home too. He also listened carefully as I spoke about how much I love driving my e-rickshaw, which does not run on polluting diesel or petrol but one that I charge at home every night.

Founded by King Charles when he was the Prince of Wales, the Princes Trust International will now transform into the Kings Trust International as it continues its work supporting young people across 20 countries through employment, education and enterprise programmes. The Princes Trust womens empowerment award recognises the global work of young women who have succeeded against the odds and made a lasting difference to those around them. (Also Read: Who is Simon Charles Dorante-Day? 7 points on man claiming to be 'secret love child' of King Charles and Camilla)

This years winner, Arti, is an inspirational example of someone whose trailblazing work in a typically male arena makes women in her community safer. Arti is determined to create a world where her daughter will not face the obstacles that she has faced, and she is already making a difference through her example, said Amal Clooney, the British activist-barrister after whom the award is named.

For the reception at Buckingham Palace, Arti arrived in a pink rickshaw  showcasing it not only as a sustainable mode of transport but also an idea and a movement.

In July 2023, Project Lehar, delivered in partnership with Princes Trust International and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), introduced Arti to the Indian governments Pink E-Rickshaw scheme, an initiative aimed at empowering women and expanding their income earning opportunities across the country. Under the innovative scheme, pink e-rickshaws were provided by the Bahraich district administration with a subsidy for women drivers.

The scheme aims to increase employment opportunities for vulnerable women, especially widows and single mothers like Arti, while also improving womens access to safe transport, thereby increasing their mobility and independence.

Arti truly embodies the courage, perseverance and determination to succeed against all odds, emerging as a role model for women in her village. We are immensely grateful for our partnership with the Princes Trust International that has enabled us to support young women to realise their dreams and aspirations. Heres to many more Artis  believe in yourself, and never let anything dim the light of your ambitions, said Tinni Sawhney, CEO of AKF (India), who accompanied Arti to the award ceremony and also helped interpret for her. (Also Read: UK PM Rishi Sunak, wife Akshata Murty richer than King Charles: Report)

Will Straw, CEO of the Princes Trust International, added: I am so proud of Arti on winning this years womens empowerment award. She is breaking societal barriers and setting an example through her strength and determination.

Our work in India gives young people the opportunity to build valuable life skills and find meaningful work. Through Project Lehar and our partnerships with the Aga Khan Foundation, we will continue supporting young women to achieve their ambitions.
Three little piggies went to a yoga class. The students doing piglet yoga love the presence of these cute animals (Representational image). (Unsplash/forest_ms)

Their human companions had a blast.

Wilbur, Charlotte and Bluey fit right into a growing trend of yoga with animals, adding some fun to the usual physical and mental wellness exercises at a class in central Massachusetts.

Darting and strolling among the yoginis making downward dog, crow and cobra poses, the piglets also dug up a backyard with their soft pink snouts as two rabbits and a goat named Munchie searched for the tastiest shoots.

The experience was well worth a nearly two-hour drive to the town of Spencer for retired New Hampshire dentist Stacey Delbridge and her daughter.

"The best thing about the piglet yoga was, of course, the piglets and how cute they are, Delbridge said with a jubilant smile. They were funny, you know. Just when you were getting to a point where you needed a break, you had a great visitor come see you, and you could quit without looking like a quitter. Yeah. Theyre adorable.

Beyond Yoga & Wellness owner Ashley Bousquet teaches piglet yoga, and says there is such demand that online registrations typically sell out within hours.

The classes begin with Bousquet inviting participants not to fret over interrupting their flows to interact with the piglets, who come from a friends farm.

During the class you have piglets causing mischief and running on you, on top of you or cuddling with you," Bousquet said. "It's super cute.

Amy Finkel brought her two daughters with her, smiling broadly while snapping photos of piglets as the girls hugged a rabbit.

Seeing them so joyful and happy was the high point, she said. The low point? "When it was over, because it just seemed to go so quickly.

Practicing yoga with animals can produce unexpected benefits. If done with shelter animals, it may even encourage adoptions, said Rebecca Purchase of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals-Angell.

Also Read: 5 yoga poses inspired by animals to boost health

Is yoga stressful to animals that join? It can be if its not the right animal," Purchase said. But for animals that really thrive being around people and getting to socialize with them, it absolutely can be a benefit.

Finkel is a big fan of animal yoga  she said it helped keep her mind from wandering. "Im really focused on to whats going on presently around me. And I think in todays day and age, thats very hard to do.

I just wanted to sit with them, Delbridge said. I could have skipped yoga and gone just piglet. All piglet.
A bakery in Australia is receiving backlash after it posted pictures of a Hamas-themed cake for the birthday of a four-year-old. As per reports, following the criticism, the bakery deleted the photos, but many are questioning why the bakers thought it was a good idea to bake such a cake. The image shows a Hamas-themed cake baked by a bakery in Australia. (YouTube/@HT-Videos)

An Australian Bakery made a Hamas-themed cake for a four-year-old boy. The cake featured the Palestinian Flag and an image of Hamas' Spokesperson, Abu Obaida. The bakery, Oven Bakery by Fufu, was forced to take down pictures of the cake on social media after it sparked massive outrage on the internet, reads the caption to a video posted on YouTube.

The video shows a montage of visuals of the cake that has drawn flak from online users.

The video, since being shared, has received several views. It has also accumulated tons of comments from people.

What did people say the cake?

Its outrageous to make a birthday cake like this for a little kid. Are they glorifying a terrorist organisation? wrote a YouTube user.

These are the kind of fanatics the world is supporting. Justifying giving a Hamas-themed cake to a freaking kid on his birthday by calling it a freedom of expression. Get some therapy, man. You all are sick, added another.

When you go so woke, you lose your senses into making things like these, joined a third.

Why, just why, questioned a fourth.

Hamas, which controls Gaza, is currently at war with Israel. The name of the group stands for Islamic Resistance Movement, reported the BBC. It wants to reject Israel's right to exist and form an Islamic state in its place. Hamas gunmen, on October 7 last year, stormed across Gaza's border into Israel, killing hundreds of people.

Under Australias criminal code, Hamas is listed as a terrorist organisation.
Telangana's food safety authorities raided Hyderabad's Rameshwaram Cafe on Thursday, May 23. The Telangana Food Safety Department's officials discovered numerous infractions as the eatery was found to be using unlabeled and expired food. The food safety officers took to X to post about their findings. The authorities raided Hyderabad's Rameshwaram Cafe on Thursday, May 23.

Their task force team found expired 100 kg of Urad Dal worth 16,000, 10 kg of Nandini Curd, and eight litres of milk. They also found 300 kg of unlabeled jaggery, the Medical Fitness Certificates for Food Handlers were not available, and dustbins were not covered with proper lids. (Also Read: Bengaluru-based Rameshwaram Cafe raided in Hyderabad, expired food items found)

Amid the controversy, founder Raghavendra Rao and co-founder and managing director Divya Raghavendra Rao told HT.com, "We have taken note of the observations made by the authorities for our Hyderabad outlet. We want to assure you that we are fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of servicing and hygiene, and the safety and welfare of the consumers are our top priority. We are already looking into the matter and have ordered an internal inquiry to verify the facts and take stock of each outlet. We continue to extend all cooperation to the authorities to get to the bottom of the matter. From the consumption perspective at our Hyderabad outlet alone, we require over 500 kgs of urad dal weekly, 300 liters of milk daily, and 80 to 100 liters of curd daily. The stocks found were sealed and unattended, intended for dispatch and not for consumption. We comply with all laws governing material procurement, sourcing the highest quality products from the best vendors."

They further said, "The law does not prohibit the use of unlabelled products. We uphold the highest hygiene standards, and some reports have falsely claimed that cockroaches were found in our kitchen. The official report does not mention this; in fact, the cockroaches were found at a different restaurant, not at Rameshwaram Cafe. At our cafe, we conduct deep cleaning daily and pest control every month to maintain our standards. Additionally, we would like to clarify that we have not received any show cause notice from the authorities and will continue to cooperate fully with them. We have also ordered hygiene and standard checks for all our outlets across the states and want to convey our strong commitment towards providing consumers with the best in the category."

"We have always believed that it is important to maintain certain standard of food and services to win the hearts and souls of our consumers and we will leave no stone unturned to make that possible," they said.
When a man asked Google to suggest what to do if cheese is not sticking to pizza, he claimed that its AI suggested adding glue to it. Yes, you read it right! Google AIs response is based on an 11-year-old Reddit comment and it has left people in splits. X user shared this screenshot to substantiate his claim of Google AI suggesting he use glue to stick cheese to pizza. (X/@petergyang)

Google AI overview suggests adding glue to get cheese to stick to pizza, and it turns out the source is an 11-year-old Reddit comment from user, wrote X user Peter Yang on the microblogging platform.

The screenshot shared by Yang shows a Google query: Cheese not sticking to pizza. In response, Google AI suggested that he add non-toxic glue to get the cheese to stick to the pizza.

Googles response reads, Cheese can slide off pizza for a number of reasons, including too much sauce, too much cheese, or thickened sauce. Here are some things you can try.

It then suggested a few things, one of which was to use glue: Mixing cheese into the sauce helps add moisture to the cheese and dry out the sauce. You can also add about  cup of non-toxic glue to the sauce to give it more tackiness.

Take a look at the post below:

The post, since being shared on May 23 has gone viral with over 2.6 million views and still counting. Many even took to the comments sections of the post to share their thoughts.

Check out how people reacted to the viral post here:

I believe these are some instructions for food photography, said an individual.

Another added, Haha. The quality of Googles AI models is questionable.

I will say Ive never had more sticky cheese on my pizza in my life! joked a third.

A fourth commented, You have to try it. Glue is great for pizza.

Who could have ever predicted this? joined a fifth.

AI Overview provides Google users with an AI-generated summary at the top of the search results page. It offers a quick overview of the topic along with relevant links to websites.
Oceania Healthcare Limited advises that Suzanne Dvorak has today been appointed as Chief Executive Officer.

Suzanne has been in the Australian aged care and retirement living sectors for the past decade which included leading the single largest residential aged care provider in Australia.

She has most recently been an external advisor at Bain & Company in Melbourne.

Oceania Healthcare Board Chair, Liz Coutts, said today the Board is delighted to announce Suzannes appointment as CEO of Oceania Healthcare, and we are looking forward to the valuable contribution Suzanne will make to the business. Suzanne has extensive experience in aged care and retirement living, which will position her well to lead Oceania through its next phases.

Ms Dvorak commented it will be a privilege to lead Oceania Healthcare, and I am excited to be joining the business at this time as Oceania grows its retirement communities and optimises its aged care operations.

Ms Dvorak will commence on 22 July 2024 and will relocate from Melbourne to Auckland.

Prior to her current role, Ms Dvorak held roles as Transitional CEO of Levande, Managing Director of Bupa Villages and Aged Care, Australia, and Executive General Manager of Residential Communities for Australia Unity.

Ms Dvorak has a Bachelor of Teaching and a Master of International Business from Curtin University, Western Australia.

Mrs Coutts confirmed that Mr Pattison will continue as Chief Executive Officer until Ms Dvoraks commencement date to support Ms Dvoraks introduction to the business.

Id like to thank Mr Pattison for his continued leadership and support since the announcement of his resignation earlier in the year.

This announcement has been authorised for release by Oceania's board of directors.

ENDS.

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Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah, a young prodigy from Ghana, has etched his name in the prestigious Guinness World Records (GWR) as the world's youngest male artist. At the tender age of 1 year and 152 days, he not only created several paintings but also sold nine of them at an exhibition. This remarkable feat has not only delighted his local community but has also sparked global admiration, with many expressing their awe at his inclusion in the GWR list. The image shows Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah, the toddler named the world's youngest male artist. (Instagram/@ace_liam_paints)

When did the toddler start painting?

His mom, Chantelle, told GWR that his passion for painting had been apparent from a young age when he was just six months old.

While learning to crawl, I spread out a piece of unstretched canvas on the floor and dropped some paint on it as a way to keep him busy while I worked on a commission painting, she added. He ended up spreading the paint all over the canvas, and in the process, he created his first masterpiece, The Crawl, she explained.

He has created a buzz and heightened the conversation about art appreciation, Chantelle commented, as well as discovering and nurturing talents in kids. She also added that painting has become his favourite activity.

The toddler has turned into a celebrity in Ghana. He not only attracted attention from national - and international - media but also from the First Lady of the Republic of Ghana.

Toddlers exhibition

Ace-Liam recently had his first group exhibition. Ten of his artworks were displayed, and nine of them were sold during the event.

Ace-Liams art is more about expression and exploration rather than conveying specific messages, reported GWR, citing a comment from the young painters mom.

His abstract paintings are inspired by the world around him; colours, shapes, textures and his mood, she said, adding Every painting is an expression of his curiosity and joy in discovering new things.

Future plans for the youngest male painter

After his record of worlds youngest artist (male) was approved, Ace-Liams proud family began exploring opportunities to place him in an environment where his artistic talent could be nurtured through quality education, according to GWR. His family is seeking international scholarship opportunities as well as international opportunities for him and also to sell his artworks.

Advice from Ace-Liams mother

She advised parents to encourage their kids to find their interests and also to support them. Every child is unique, and nurturing their passions can lead to amazing discoveries and achievements, she said. Read it over and over again before attempting it and remember, the journey and the joy it brings is very fulfilling, she added.
A judge from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, has claimed that his pet dog was stolen from his house. He has alleged that his neighbour, Dumpy Ahmed, had stolen it. According to reports, he has filed a police complaint against Ahmed, his wife and 12 others people responsible for the missing dog. UP judge has filed an FIR against 14 people over his missing dog. (Representative image)

Ahmed visited the judges house on May 16 after the judges dog had allegedly attacked his wife and daughter. He also threatened to teach the dog a lesson, as per a report by Hindustan.

When the incident happened, the judge was not at his home in Bareillys Suncity colony.

As per a report by the Indian Express, the visit escalated into a heated argument. During the altercation, Ahmed attempted to take hold of the dog. The judges wife and daughters tried to protect the dog, but their attempts were unsuccessful.

Ahmed then gathered 12 people and threatened the judges family with consequences if they didn't get out of his way. He, along with his aides then fled the scene with the dog. Upon learning about the incident, the judge, who is posted in Lucknow, contacted Ahmed through WhatsApp. He allegedly threatened and verbally abused the judge, too, the outlet further reported, quoting News24.

The judge has filed an FIR at the Izzatnagar station, accusing Ahmed of threatening his wife, verbally abusing his daughters, and even manhandling them.

According to reports, police went through the CCTV footage but were unable to track the dog.
How do you take time off from your job to maintain that sweet work-life balance? Ideally, you inform your manager about going on a vacation. However, in a latest workplace trend, many are skipping that part and taking time off without informing their bosses. As per reports, this viral trend, called quiet vacationing, is especially gaining popularity among millennials. Quiet vacationing: Some employees create an illusion that they are working while taking time off without informing their bosses. (Unaplsh/ethanrobertson)

Why sneak off without telling your boss?

As per a survey conducted by The Harris Poll, an American market research and analytics company, about 78% of the workers, especially millennials and Gen Z, in the US don't utilise all of their Paid time off (PTO) days, reported CNBC.

Libby Rodney, chief strategy officer at The Harris Poll, told the outlet that young professionals don't take all the PTO because they feel that requesting offs would make them like slackers. They reportedly also hesitate to take time off because they feel it will create pressure about meeting deadlines and being productive.

Hence, a part of that workforce came up with their own solution, taking the time off that they need but without telling their bosses.

What do employees do when quiet vacationing?

According to the Guardian, about 40% of millennials have admitted to following this trend and taking time off without informing their bosses. As per the outlet, some workers employ certain methods while quiet vacationing.

Some employees create an illusion to maintain the impression that they are working, reported the outlet. They either schedule emails to be sent within working hours or, at times, outside them to give the impression that they are working overtime. Some also periodically move their computer mouse on the companys messaging platforms to show that they are working when, in reality, they are not.

Theres a giant workaround culture at play, Rodney told CNBC. They will figure out how to get appropriate work-life balance, but its happening behind the scenes, Rodney explained, adding, Its not exactly quiet quitting, but more like quiet vacationing.
EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell on Friday urged Israel "not to intimidate" or "threaten" the judges of the International Criminal Court, whose prosecutor has requested arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister and defence minister. EU's Borrell urges Israel 'not to intimidate,' 'threaten' ICC judges

"I ask everyone, starting with the Israeli government, but also certain European governments, not to intimidate the judges, not to threaten them," Borrell said during an interview with Spanish public television TVE, calling for "respect for the International Criminal Court".

What the court's prosecutor "has done in presenting a case should not be considered as an anti-Semitic attitude," the former Spanish foreign minister added.

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said Monday that he requested arrest warrants for as Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh and Mohamed Deif, on suspicions of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

While he said the Palestinian militant chiefs could be culpable of "extermination", "rape and other acts of sexual violence" and "taking hostages as a war crime", he accused the Israelis of "starvation", "wilful killing", and "extermination and/or murder".

Netanyahu said he rejected "with disgust ... the comparison between democratic Israel and the mass murderers of Hamas", and Biden also stressed that "there is no equivalence none between Israel and Hamas".

The warrants, if granted by the ICC judges, would mean that any of the 124 ICC member states would technically be obliged to arrest Netanyahu and the others if they travelled there. However the court has no mechanism to enforce its orders.

The Gaza war broke out after Hamas's unprecedented attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Militants also took 252 hostages, 121 of whom remain in Gaza, including 37 the army says are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 35,800 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

chz/ds/rlp

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
The Japanese dog, whose photo inspired a wave of online jokes and the $23-billion Dogecoin cryptocurrency, died on Friday, her owner announced. Japanese dog of 'Doge' meme fame dies(Unsplash)

"She quietly passed away as if asleep while I caressed her," wrote Atsuko Sato on her blog, expressing gratitude to the fans of her dog, Kabosu, the iconic face of the "Doge" meme.

ALSO READ- Viral Shiba Inu behind Doge meme dies at 18

Japanese dog of 'Doge' meme fame dies | 10 points profile

1. Kabosu, the Japanese Shiba Inu, inspired the billion dollar Dogecoin cryptocurrency, loved by Elon Musk.

2. Dogecoin was started as a joke by two software engineers and is now one of the world's most valuable cryptocurrency.

"The Doge meme was pretty big on the internet in 2013 and I spent a lot of time on Reddit and other forums back then," Dogecoin co-founder Billy Markus told AFP.

ALSO READ- Binance founder Changpeng Zhao sentenced to 4 months for money laundering: Who is bitcoin Jesus'

3. In 2010, her owner Atsuko Sato posted a photo of Kabosu with a beguiling look, which became the iconic "Doge" meme.

4. Kabosu was a former rescue dog who accompanied Sato to work at a kindergarten every day.

ALSO READ- Donald Trump begins accepting cryptocurrency donations for presidential elections, vows to build crypto army

5. Kabosu became an internet celebrity, and Sato discovered the meme's popularity through friends and online searches.

6. The famous photo of Kabosu sold as an NFT digital artwork for $4 million.

7. Kabosu's image became a popular meme used in various online contexts, including being featured as the Twitter icon by Elon Musk.

8. Kabosu battled leukemia and liver disease but recovered recently, partly due to fan support.

9. Sato and crypto organization Own The Doge donated significant sums to international charities, including Save the Children.

10. Kabosu's meme and influence continue to inspire, with plans for Doge-themed products and media, ensuring her legacy endures, the owner says.
Israels army has recovered the bodies of three more hostages killed during the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The deceased hostages have been identified as Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez Radoux. Their families have reportedly been notified. This combo from photos provided by Hostages Families Forum Headquarters shows from left, Michel Nisenbaum, 59, Hanan Yablonka, 42, and Oryon Hernandez Radoux, 30 (Hostages Families Forum Headquarters via AP)

The army claimed that all of them were murdered on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection. Their bodies were then taken to Gaza, New York Post reported.

Less than a week ago, the army recovered the bodies of three other hostages who died on October 7. Israel has said that Hamas is holding around 100 hostages in Gaza at present, as well as the bodies of 30 more people.

The army has claimed that the bodies were recovered during an operation in Jabaliya. The bodies were retrieved on critical intelligence that Israeli forces operating in Gaza uncovered last week, Military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari has said.

Who were the three hostages whose bodies were recently found?

Nisenbaum, 59, a Brazilian-Israeli from the southern city of Sderot, was captured by Hamas when he tried to rescue his four-year-old granddaughter. 30-year-old Radoux, a French-Mexican citizen, was taken hostage from the Nova music festival. He was attending the event with his partner Shani Louk, whose body was found about a week back and recently laid to rest.

Yablonka was a 42-year-old father of two. He too was captured from the Nova music festival. Ever since he was taken, his family had no updates on where he was, and whether he was dead or alive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to bring all the hostages back and eliminate Hamas. However, little progress has been made, with Netanyahu facing pressure to resign as president. The United States has warned that it would scale back its support over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
A royal expert, Tom Quinn, has claimed that King Charles III and Prince William discussed stripping Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their royal titles after they stepped down from their senior royal duties in 2020 and relocated to the United States. Royal expert Tom Quinn claims King Charles and Prince William discussed title removal for Harry and Meghan to prevent further complaints.(AFP)

Earlier this year, Prince Harry announced the US as his country of residence.

The couple, who now call Montecito, California, their home, have been the subject of much public scrutiny since their departure from the UK.

However, the royal duo has not shied away from sharing insights into their experiences within the royal family, raising eyebrows and rift in families.

During a recent tour of Nigeria, the Sussexes were seen seated in chairs and delighted their royal titles as Duke and Duchess, and drove others in Buckingham Palace crazy.

ALSO READ| Prince Harry, Meghan Markle's next 'unofficial royal tour' revealed after successful Nigeria trip

King knew Meghan and Harry would carry on travelling the world even without the titles

However, Quinn told The Mirror UK that King Charles and Prince William have had lengthy discussions about stripping Meghan and Harry of their royal titles, but they are terrified this would backfire and make the situation worse.

The last thing they want is to give the renegade royals something else to complain about. William and his father know that even without their Royal titles Meghan and Harry would carry on travelling the world as if they were royals and most people in the world will still welcome them, he added.

Despite stepping back from their official roles, the Sussexes retained their titles as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, although they no longer use the His/Her Royal Highness styling.

Prince Harry relinquished his military titles upon their exit from royal duties.

Earlier in the year, the couple reaffirmed their royal connection by relaunching their website with the domain name Sussex.com.

ALSO READ| Man who claims to be the secret love child of King Charles III and Queen Camilla seeks legal help to prove his royalty

The homepage displays a photograph of the couple with the caption: The Office of Prince Harry & Meghan, The Duke & Duchess of Sussex, alongside brief descriptions of their credentials and updates on their recent activities, including their trip to Nigeria.
The Duchess of Sussex can't seem to catch a break when it comes to facing an endless list of snubs dealt out by the British side of things. One of the latest major blows to the Suits alum has been served cold by British fashion designer Julien Macdonald. FILE PHOTO: Britain's Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, arrives to meet academics and students during a roundtable discussion on female access to higher education with the Association of Commonwealth Universities, at the University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa, October 1, 2019. REUTERS/Toby Melville/File Photo(REUTERS)

Former British Fashion Designer of the Year came right out with his judgements about the Duchess and his unequivocal favouritism for the Princess of Wales at the Fragrance Foundation Awards in London. Showering the Royal family (minus the California-settled estranged members) with saccharine-laced praises, Macdonald now hopes to partner up with Kate Middleton as soon as possible. However, he couldn't say the same for Meghan Markle.

Also read | Why is Carlo Acutis, an Italian teen, being granted sainthood? What miracles are attributed to him?

What did Julien Macdonald have to say about working with Meghan Markle?

As one of Wales' top fashion designers, the 53-year-old has previously joined forces with A-list clients, such as Victoria Beckham, Kylie Minogue, Naomi Campbel and Gwyneth Paltrow. Despite having worked with a diverse palette of celebrities, Macdonald doesn't hide his unambiguous preferential treatment of the Royal family.

Upon revealing his good terms with Queen Camilla at the awards show, the former Strictly contestant allegedly claimed that she sometimes relied on him for fashion tips. Having also encouraged the Queen to step out for her first-ever fashion show, Macdonald had Camilla team up with him for the Julien Macdonald Fashion Show in 2018. The fundraising event had been organised to support the National Osteoporosis Society, headed by the Queen Consort as President.

According to the DailyMail Online, Macdonald gloriously spoke of the Queen and the Princess at this year's Fragrance Foundation Awards. Kate's amazing I'd love to dress her in one of my dresses. I've got a great relationship with Camilla, the Queen. She's incredible, he told the British tabloid.

Also read | Kate Middleton may not appear in public for the rest of the year amid cancer treatment: report

Adding on more about his fashion connection with the Queen, he said, When I see her at different events, I always say, You look really nice, Camilla, and she'll say, Do you like it? Oh, Im glad you approve'.

Although Macdonald explicitly expressed his desire to dress the Princess, didn't have much to say about a certain member of the Royal Family.

On being asked if he'd like to work with Meghan Markle, he curtly made his point clear. Implying that he doesn't want the Duchess of Sussex to see in his outfits, the fashion designer promptly responded, No, I prefer Jate and Camilla.
A royal expert has claimed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have rubbed their brand operation in Prince William and Kate Middleton's faces. Royal commentator highlights Prince William and Kate Middleton's distress over Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's brand operations during trying times.(AFP)

Meghan has been getting new products under the American Riviera Orchard brand name, and Prince Harry has also been actively in the news through interviews and tours.

The Sussexes are working hard to promote their new launch brand, coming Netflix projects and Invictus games.

Kate and her father-in-law, King Charles III, are both dealing with their health after the cancer diagnosis.

ALSO READ| King Charles III and Prince William wanted to strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal titles, but they feared

Kate and William 'Deeply Upset' by Sussexes

The royal expert claimed that Kate is deeply upset by the situation, feeling that the Sussexes brand operation is being rubbed in their faces during her medical woes.

On the other font, Prince William has been dealing with tremendous pressure while still handling several public engagements. He is facing constant sniping from California and is furious with his younger brother, Prince Harry.

Royal commentator Tom Bower told The Royal Observer, Not only is there the pressure on William, but also the constant sniping from California. Im sure hes furious with Harry, hes behaved appallingly.

Bower describes Harrys allegations against the Waleses as outrageous, rude, unfair and made a real struggle for William and Kate.

Bower criticizes the timing of Meghans brand launch and the broader brand Sussex initiative, amidst the royal familys ongoing ordeal.

While theyre establishing this so-called brand Sussex, the family here is going through torment, he said.

I can imagine that Kate and William are deeply upset by having the Sussexes' brand operation rubbed in their face while they're going through this tragedy.

The royal aide has emphasized that Kate needs the space and privacy to recover right now.

ALSO READ| Kate Middleton in a very different position to King Charles as she battles cancer, here's why

Princess of Wales' Early Childhood development project

The Princess of Wales has been instrumental in launching a project through her Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. The project aims to bolster the UK economy by an impressive 45.5 billion annually.

A senior royal aide told Daily Mail Online, The Princess of Wales was the driving force behind the business task force. She has been kept up to date since the inception of the task force and she has read the report and been briefed on it.

This is a clear commitment she has made throughout her life of public service that this will be focus. That will continue when she returns to work. But we have been really clear that she needs the space and the privacy to recover right now. She will return to work when she has had the green light from doctors.
The 7th Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, a very close friend of both Prince Harry and William, has his wedding ceremony scheduled for June 7 at Chester Cathedral. Prince Harry flew more than 5,000 miles to see his father after King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer. But he did not see his estranged brother, William, during a visit that lasted scarcely 24 hours. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)(AP)

As the Duke of Westminster is set to join hands with Olivia Henson, Prince Harry has reportedly turned down a save the date of the invitation to avoid any awkward encounter with other royals.

Prince Harry's 6-year-old son, Prince Archie, will also not attend his godfather's wedding ceremony.

ALSO READ| Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leave Kate Middleton deeply upset because of

The Duke of Sussex sidelined himself amid reports that his brother, Prince William, will be at the ceremony as an usher. And that triggered Harry to turn down the invitation.

A source close to the situation told Express UK, William was asked to take up a leading role in the wedding and thats what triggered Harry to decline an invitation. It was the final nail in the coffin.

Harry was very close to Hugh growing up so everyone thought it would have been him taking up a leading role, not William, the source added.

Prince Harry would snub the wedding anyway

However, even months before the revelation that Prince William will attend the wedding as an usher, a source told Page Six that Prince Harry will snub the ceremony anyway.

The source told Page Six at that time, Harry actually got a save the date card a few months ago but called Hugh and said it would be too awkward if he and Meghan Markle attended, so he made his apologies and Hugh understood.

ALSO READ| King Charles III and Prince William wanted to strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal titles, but they feared

Royal expert and author Tom Quinn told The Mirror UK last month, William will attend the wedding of Hugh Grosvenor, the seventh Duke of Westminster  he can hardly avoid it as Hugh is Prince Georges godfather.

He also noted, Harry declined on the grounds that it would just be too awkward, and added, But there are other reasons  Harry knows he cant attend without Meghan and Meghan has absolutely insisted she wont be there.
Prince Harry has been blasted for his "terrible snub" to the royal family and has been called "really cruel" by a royal commentator. The Duke is being called out soon after he and Meghan Markle returned from a Nigeria tour and hinted that they might do more such visits. Prince Harry called out for terrible snub to royal family (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File)(AP)

Speaking to People, Harry said, It is hugely important for us to meet directly with people, supporting our causes and listening, in order to bring about solutions, support and positive change. Whether it's the Archewell Foundation, Invictus or any of our other causes, there will always be reasons to meet the people at the heart of our work."

I think it's really cruel and awful

Royal commentator Angela Levin has now said, speaking to GBN America, "I think that that is a terrible snub to his family. I think it's really cruel and awful. He wants to say that he's okay, he's fine. He knows how to do these things. And the old fashioned Royal Family can't. I think he could be a lot of damage, bring a lot of damage to the Royals."

GBNA host Nana Akua then said, "Well what's he even doing going there anyway? What was the purpose of the trip? It's pretty unclear to me, maybe it had something to do with Invictus."

"It's all designed as if there was a TV programme going to run on it, and they would be with this person for ten minutes, nothing lasted very long, Levin stated. "I watched Meghan go down a line of people who were in a wheelchair, and she took their hand, put it back and was on the next person.

"I mean, it wasn't even a minute. Now in a film might look okay, but there was no need at all for her to want to do that, she continued. "She just carried on doing that as well and Harry with the wounded soldiers also wasn't passionate, it wasn't caring. It was just because that would be useful to do it.

"So it could have been much more about the Invictus Games, but that didn't come across. That wasn't the main thing, she added.

Reports have claimed Harry and Meghan could get an invitation on an unofficial tour of another Commonwealth country. A source said that the couple is in talks to visit Ghana.
A royal commentator has called Prince Harry a case of arrested development while addressing the Duke's rift with the royal family. Most recently, the Duke of Sussex visited the UK but did not meet King Charles or Prince William. Harry visited London for a celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. Royal expert calls Prince Harry case of arrested development (REUTERS/Akintunde Akinleye)(REUTERS)

GBN America host Nana Akua recently asked royal commentator Michael Cole about Charles and Williams resisting reconciliation. I think were dealing with a case of arrested development here, Cole said. Prince Harry is 40 in September and he doesnt seem to realise that words have power and actions have consequences.

Cole continued, He and his wife have spent the last four years making cruel, unjustified and unkind criticisms of his family and senior members of it and now they seem rather surprised that no one wants to hug, kiss and forgive.

That shouldnt be a surprise but it seems to be for them. Prince Harry has said he loves this country and it will always be his home but the people of this country are not too sure about that because he has gone into self-imposed exile in California, Cole added.

And yet, when do you see a genuine smile across the face of Prince Harry

Cole also said that the Duke is ungrateful for the wonderful life he and his wife Meghan Markle enjoy. They should be hugging themselves with glee, he said. And yet, when do you see a genuine smile across the face of Prince Harry? He used to be the happy prince, he doesnt seem to be now.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Harry rejected an invitation from Charles to stay at a royal residence, citing security concerns. He last had a brief meeting with his father after the king was diagnosed with cancer.
Several passengers from the Singapore Airlines flight that encountered severe turbulence will require spinal surgery, a Bangkok hospital said, AP reported. The rare in-flight turbulence killed one passenger. The interior of Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 is pictured after an emergency landing at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Thailand, May 21, 2024. (REUTERS)

ALSO READ- Singapore Airlines tragedy: What's in-flight turbulence? Top 10 most turbulent routes

Singapore Airlines horror: Passengers suffered spinal, brain and skull injuries

 Nearly 60 passengers were injured when the plane hit sudden extreme turbulence at 37,000 feet over the Irrawaddy Basin.

 Twenty-two passengers on a Singapore Airlines flight had spinal cord injuries.

 Six others, including a two-year-old, suffered brain and skull injuries.

 Geoffrey Kitchen, a 73-year-old British passenger, died of likely of a heart attack on the flight.

 Twenty people are in intensive care, but none are life-threatening.

The oldest patient is 83, and the youngest is a two-year-old with a concussion.

 Forty patients are at the hospital, while 65 passengers and two crew members remain in Bangkok where the flight made an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

ALSO READ- Singapore Airlines flight horror: 3 Indians among passengers hit by plane turbulence

Singapore Airlines tweaks seat belt rule

Singapore Airlines announced on Friday that it is adopting a more cautious approach to managing turbulence after Flight SQ321 abruptly lost altitude.

The airline said that in-flight meal service will be halted when the seatbelt sign is on, and hot drinks will not be served. Crew members will also return to their seats and fasten their seatbelts.

Read in detail- Singapore Air tweaks seatbelt sign policy, alters route after turbulence incident

No mandatory seatbelts throughout flight

However, the Singapore Airlines new policy does not mandate that passengers wear seatbelts throughout the entire flight. Ron Bartsch, a former safety chief at Qantas Airways, noted that deaths and serious injuries from severe turbulence are so rare that introducing permanent restrictions might deter some passengers.
Two people were killed and another injured after gunfire erupted in the Bronxs University Heights neighborhood, according to the New York Police Department. The shooting incident occurred on Friday morning on Davidson Avenue in the Fordham Heights neighborhood.(Unsplash)

The incident occurred on Friday morning on Davidson Avenue in the Fordham Heights neighborhood.

According to police, the deceased include a 36-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman. While they both were shot at the chest, the injured person received gunshot wounds in his arm. He was rushed to Saint Barnabas Hospital and his condition is reportedly stable, Fox5 reported.

Police are looking for two suspects who were dressed in all black. They fled the area after the shooting on a red moped.

No arrest has been made so far.

The incident occurs hours after former US President Donald Trump addressed a massive rally in NYC.

Trump says NYC is now a city in decline

On Thursday, Trump defied political conventions by visiting one of New York City's most deeply blue neighborhoods, the region which is not known for its Republican-friendly policies. Nearly 25,000 Trump's supporters arrived at Crotona Park in the Bronx.

"I'm here tonight to declare we are going to turn New York City around, and we are going to turn it around very, very quickly," Trump declared, vowing to restore safety.

The GOP leader complimented New York's history but expressed concern that it was "now a city in decline."

Stressing on rising crimes taking place on subways, he said: "I've never seen it quite like this."

Trump further blasted "grossly incompetent" US President Joe Biden, claiming that he was not "getting the job done" for population of Bronx.

"If a New Yorker can't save this city, no one can," Trump said amid wild applause.

If elected, he pledged to work with Democrat Gov. Kathy Hochul and Democrat Mayor Eric Adams to improve the city and state, such as repairing the subway system, maintaining the parks, and eradicating the homeless and mentally ill people from the streets.
The United States has reissued its highest-level advisory for Venezuela, "Do not travel," since the government "has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens" who are in distress. U.S. reissues 'Do Not Travel' advisory for Venezuela amid rising instability and crime.(Photo by GUSTAVO GRANADO / AFP)

This warning was issued in response to civil unrest, a "slide towards dictatorship," recurrent terrorism threats, and anti-American sentiments."Violent crimes, such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, are common in Venezuela," officials added.

The situation has become so precarious that the US government has recommended travellers who persist on going to set up a "proof of life" protocol with their loved ones.

If you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax), officials explained.

The Department has determined there is a high risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Venezuela. Security forces have detained U.S. citizens for up to five years, the agency noted, warning that the American government is rarely alerted or granted access to incarcerated nationals.

Decline in tourism due to the countrys political state

Venezuela attracts a lot of American tourists because of its miles of Caribbean coastline and gorgeous neighbouring islands. However, those figures began to erode, eventually dropping drastically when Nicolas Maduro took office following the death of the iron-fisted Hugo Chavez in 2013.

The State Department asserted that Maduro is pushing Venezuela closer to tyranny and illegally claimed the presidency of Venezuela, despite global condemnation of a rigged election, in the most recent election. Similar to Chavez, Maduro is strengthening "alliances with outside nations, including Cuba, Russia, Iran, and China, that repress the Venezuelan people further."

The current warning, which was first issued in 2019 when the United States began withdrawing personnel from Venezuela, was repeated on May 13.It comes ahead of a July election that will determine the fate of the South American nation.

Political rallies and demonstrations occur, often with little notice. Anti-Maduro demonstrations have elicited a strong police and security force response, the department noted, including the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against participants.
Former president Donald Trump has called out the FBI for invading his son Barrins private quarters while searching Mar-a-Lago in 2022. Trump has accused the FBI of searching his sons personal space while looking for classified documents at his Florida residence. Donald Trump slams FBI for invading Barrons private quarters during 2022 Mar-a-Lago search (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)(AP)

What is Donald Trump saying?

"I have gotten to know so many amazing United States Secret Service Agents - It has been my honor to have them protecting me and my family since our historic 2016 Victory against 'Beautiful' Hillary Clinton, Trump said in a Truth Social post.

"Shockingly, however, Crooked Joe Biden's Department of Injustice authorized the use of 'deadly force' in their Illegal, UnConstitutional, and Un-American RAID of Mar-a-Lago, and that would include against our Great Secret Service, who they thought might be 'in the line of fire, he added.

Trump further said, As I told Crooked Joe's DOJ, if they needed anything, 'all they had to do was ask.' They did not have to ILLEGALLY AND UNCONSTITUTIONALLY RAID my home, and rummage through my family's, including Barron's, private quarters. END THESE THIRD WORLD WITCH HUNTS, AND MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"

In a campaign email, the former president made the assertion that Joe Biden was "locked and loaded and ready to take me out, according to The Mirror. Attorney General Merrick Garland labelled Trumps assassination claims as "false and extremely dangerous."

"The document being referred to in the allegation is the Justice Department's standard policy limiting the use of force," Garland said. "As the FBI advises, it is part of a standard operations plan for searches and, in fact, it was even used in the consensual search of President Biden's home."

Trump is now facing as many as 40 federal charges of unlawful retention of national defence information. This is one of the three criminal cases that have been brought against the former president.
On Thursday, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis filed a notice of appeal on a March ruling that dismissed six counts against former US President Donald Trump and others in the Georgia election interference case. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump throws a "MAGA" hat during a campaign rally in the south Bronx, Thursday, May. 23, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)(AP)

The cross-appeal was initiated after the appeals court had already consented to review Trump and his co-defendants appeal concerning their attempts to disqualify Willis from the case.

Thursday's court filing states, The State files this notice of cross appeal within 15 days of the Defendants' initial notices of appeal.

Then, in March, Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee dismissed six of the counts, saying they provided insufficient information. It was composed of three cuffed to Trump, who had been answerable for 13 counts in the case while now answerable to 10 charges.

ALSO READ| White House Press Secretary faces ire for bizarre reply over Biden's refusal to tackle US-Mexico border crisis

The states filing against Trump was not expected

Chris Timmons, an ABC News contributor and ex-prosecutor, commented on the timing of the states decision to file a cross-appeal.

Here, because the Court of Appeals is already taking the case, the State has nothing to lose from cross appealing. It wont take any longer for the case to be decided, Timmons elaborated.

Steve Sadow, a Trump lawyer in Georgia, expressed that the states filing was not expected. Despite dismissing three counts involving Trump, most of the indictment remains effective against him and his co-defendants, as per McAfees ruling.

In August of last year, Trump, along with eighteen other individuals, entered a plea of not guilty to all charges listed in a racketeering indictment. The charges were related to alleged attempts to manipulate the outcome of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.

ALSO READ| Liz Cheney calls Trump dangerous for spreading debunked conspiracy theory, blasts GOP for 'blindly' following him

Following the indictment, four of the defendants pleaded guilty, and they agreed to provide testimony against the other individuals charged in the case.

Since then, Trump has consistently lambasted the district attorneys investigation as politically driven.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Thursday revealed his biggest fear and biggest hope while making a grim forecast about artificial intelligence. US businessman Elon Musk addresses participants via videoconference during the 8th edition of the Vivatech technology startups and innovation fair, at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre in Paris, on May 23, 2024. (Photo by MIGUEL MEDINA / AFP)(AFP)

Speaking via webcam at VivaTech 2024 in Paris, Musk talked about the future of AI, warning attendees that it will take over the majority of their work. He also issued a chilling warning to parents by stressing that technology is harming children.

According to the billionaire, "none of us will have a job" when AI will evolve and grow. If you want to do a job that's kinda like a hobby, you can do a job. But otherwise, AI and the robots will provide any goods and services that you want.

Calling AI is "biggest fear", the Space X CEO stated that his "biggest hope is Mars" and he intends to send people to Mars "probably within 10 years, maybe seven to eight".

Artificial intelligence has advanced swiftly in recent years. However, researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab discovered in January that organisations are embracing AI at a much slower rate than experts projected and worried.

According to CNN, experts believe that AI cannot replace certain vocations that demand high degrees of cognitive ability, such as teachers, professionals in psychology, and creatives.

Elon Musk asks Does your life have meaning? if.

During the conference, Musk mentioned Ian Banks' 'Culture Book Series,' which offers a utopian dramatised view at a community run by modern technology, and called it the most genuine and "best envisioning of a future AI."

He went on to ask if humans could be satisfied with a life without jobs and careers, stressing that "if computers and robots can do everything better than you, does your life have any meaning?"

The US businessman, however, added that he believes that there is "perhaps still a role for humans in this  in that we may give AI meaning."

Issuing a stern warning to parents against letting their kids use technology, he advised them to limit their children's time on social media.

Musk's prediction about artificial intelligence comes after he stated that "AI will be smarter than any human by the end of 2025".

"There would be no shortage of goods or services," the X owner said on the future of AI.
Former US President Donald Trump held a raucous rally in the South Bronx on Thursday. He wanted to target one of the most Democratic counties in the nation to appeal to minority voters and the response, he says, was a massive win for the campaign. Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in the South Bronx in New York City on May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP)(AFP)

The event in Crotona Park marked his first major campaign stop in New York since 2016, just days before a Manhattan jury is set to deliberate on felony charges in his criminal hush money trial.

Trump addressed a lively crowd that included significant numbers of Black and Hispanic supporters. He positioned himself as a better advocate for minority communities than President Joe Biden, especially on issues like immigration. Despite the parks capacity of 3,500, thousands more gathered outside.

"The biggest negative impact of the influx of migrants in New York is against our Black population and our Hispanic population who are losing their jobs, losing their housing, losing everything they can lose," Trump declared, prompting chants of Build the wall from the audience.

As he wrapped up his speech, Trump said he woke up Thursday uncertain of the reception he'd get in the Bronx.

"I said, I wonder, will it be hostile or will it be friendly?" he said. "It was beyond friendly. It was a lovefest.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 23: Supporters of former President Donald Trump watch as he holds a rally in the historical Democratic district of the South Bronx on May 23, 2024 in New York City. The Bronx, home to a large Latino community, has been a Democratic base for generations of voters and the rally comes as Trump looks to attract more non-white voters.(Getty Images via AFP)

Significance of Trump's high turnout in South Bronx

The Bronx has been the most Democratic borough in New York city. Barack Obama won 91.2% of the borough's vote in 2012, the highest in the state. Biden won 83.5% of the borough in 2020. Trump garnered only 16% of the vote.

Protests were also present, with the Bronx Democratic Party holding a counter-event and union members carrying signs reading The Bronx says no to Trump. Democratic State Rep. Amanda Septimo criticized Trumps visit, accusing him of exploiting the communitys struggles without offering solutions.

The area Trump visited is overwhelmingly non-white with about 65% of residents are Hispanic and 31% Black, according to the U.S. Census data. About 35% live below the poverty line.

Trump's election campaign in New York

This rally was part of a series of local events Trump has planned while confined to New York for his trial. Over the past six weeks, he has visited a Harlem bodega, a construction site, and a firehouse, but the Bronx rally was his first open to the general public.

The strategy is to show the voters of the Bronx and New York that this isnt your typical presidential election, said Florida Republican Rep. Byron Donalds, a potential running mate who spoke at the rally. Donald Trump is here to represent everybody and get our country back on track.

In his speech, Trump criticized Bidens handling of New York Citys issues, including the poor conditions of the subway system, the presence of discarded needles, and the challenges posed by migrants. "Joe Biden is not getting the job done for the Bronx," Trump asserted. Our subways are squalid and unsafe, the ceiling tiles are falling down, and they look worse than a Third World country.

Protestors demonstrate outside US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's campaign rally in the South Bronx in New York City on May 23, 2024. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP)(AFP)

As thousand gather to meet Trump, mixed response from Bronx residents

Even as many locals supported Trumps message there were protests against him too. Margarita Rosario, a longtime Bronx resident, and Muhammad Ali, a Bangladeshi immigrant, expressed their frustration with the current administration and their belief in Trumps ability to improve their economic situations.

Some protesters held banners saying, The Bronx says no to Trump, accusing him of exploiting the communitys struggles without offering solutions.

Trumps campaign believes he can erode Biden's support among Black and Hispanic voters, particularly younger men frustrated with their economic prospects. He has also suggested that his legal battles make him relatable to Black voters disillusioned with the criminal justice system, a claim that Biden's allies have sharply criticized..
Indian-American attorney Jaya Badiga has become the first Telugu woman to be appointed as a judge in the United States. Badiga has been appointed a judge in Sacramento County Superior Court in California. She is the daughter of Badiga Ramakrishna, an industrialist and former Machilipatnam Lok Sabha MP. Jaya Badiga, first Andhra-born woman to become US judge, offers Telugu welcome (@SacramentoCourt)

After her appointment as a judge in the US, a viral video shows Badiga offering a Telugu welcome and ending her speech with the Sanskrit prayer Asato Ma Sadgamaya. Badiga has filled the vacancy that Judge Robert S Lapham created.

Badiga previously served as a commissioner for the Sacramento County Superior Court, where she had been assigned to a domestic violence and child support calendar. A certified family law specialist, she has notably worked in Family Law for more than 10 years.

Judge Jaya Badigas journey

Badiga was born in Vijayawada city of Andhra Pradesh, India. Her educational journey began in Hyderabad. She earned a Bachelor's degree in psychology and political science from Osmania University. She later moved to the US to pursue further studies.

Badiga pursued a Master's degree in International Relations and International Communication from Boston University in the US. She then did a Juris Doctor degree from Santa Clara University.

In 2009, Badiga passed the California State Bar Examination, and thus began her legal career. She worked as a sole practitioner from 2018 to 2022, and also as an attorney at the California Department of Health Care Services and the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services.

Badiga was a faculty member at the National Institute of Trial Advocacy and the McGeorge School of Law, contributing to legal education. Her appointment was announced by California Governor Gavin Newsom.

As many as 18 other judicial appointments were made, including Raj Singh Badhesha, another judge of Indian origin. Badhesha is a Democrat, and has now become the first Sikh to be appointed to the Fresno County bench. He also became the first Sikh judge in California who is responsible for observing the practice of wearing the dastar or pagri  the Sikh headdress.
EQS-Ad-hoc: Vienna Insurance Group AG Wiener Versicherung Gruppe / Key word(s): Personnel

VIENNA INSURANCE GROUP AG Wiener Versicherung Gruppe reorganises the chairmanship of the Supervisory Board



24-May-2024 / 18:24 CET/CEST

Disclosure of an inside information acc.



The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



The Supervisory Board of VIENNA INSURANCE GROUP AG Wiener Versicherung Gruppe (VIG) elected Rudolf Ertl as the new Chairman of the Supervisory Board at its constituent meeting held today following the 33rd Annual General Meeting of VIG. He will hold this position until 30 June 2025. At its meeting today, the Supervisory Board also decided that Peter Thirring will take over as Chairman of the Supervisory Board from 1 July 2025 at the end of his cooling-off period.





End of Inside Information

24-May-2024 CET/CEST News transmitted by EQS Group AG. www.eqs.com




Rodeo star Spencer Wrights son was declared brain dead after he was hospitalised following a tragic incident in Utah. The three-year-old drove his toy tractor into a river, prompting rescue teams to launch a search operation. Rodeo star Spencer Wrights son was declared brain dead after he was hospitalised following a tragic incident in Utah.(Mindy Sue Clark/FB)

While Levi's parents were hoping for a miracle, their close friend provided initial details about his situation. Now, a hopeful update on his condition has been shared by his mother, just two days after the family assumed they had lost him, stating that they planned to stop care and hold him close until his last breath on Earth."

"LEVI WOKE UP!" Wright's wife, Kallie, said in a Facebook post after midnight on Friday.

I am shook, we dont know much but the doctor said it was okay for me to get excited about that and I AM! My baby is so tough! He got a little wild so we had to settle him down again but my heart! she wrote.

The development comes after Wright's family lost all their hopes. However, a doctor told them that they need to give their son some more time, stated family friend Mindy Sue Clark.

Reacting to Kallie's post, Clark wrote: MIRACLES!!!!!!!!

ETA - because people have been asking for clarification, he opened his eyes and tried to lift his head. The nurse was in the room and they were telling him how much he loves excavators, and wouldnt you know it, there he was! she added.

In another post, she shared a story about Steeley, Kallie and Spencers daughter, as she wanted to FaceTime mom and dad to see her brother Levi.

"I am in awe of Gods work, and how tough Levi is! These are nothing short of miracles! What an amazing gift to witness this in real time," she wrote.

Kallie thanks rescue teams for evacuating her son

In a post on Facebook, Clark informed that Levi's heart is pumping normally, but his little brain has been without oxygen for too long, and there is no way to recover.

They family members cuddled him all night as they felt his spirit is no longer with us, she said.

Later in a post on Thursday, Kallie thanked the rescue teams for evacuating the little child out of the river.

Also Read: Louisiana medical student suffers brain damage

To whoever decided to spend close to an hour reviving him and not giving up. Id hug you if I could, she wrote.

The water was up to my chest and I dont know if I could have known what to do if I did find him, the mother added, explaining the stressful scenario.

In 2023, ProRodeo ranked Spencer Wright, who hails from a long line of notable cowboys, at 35th position in the world.
The daughter and son-in-law of Missouri Rep. Ben Baker were killed in a gang attack in Haiti, it has been reported. At the time, the couple was serving as missionaries in Haiti. Missouri Rep. Ben Baker's daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Davy, shot dead by gang in Haiti (Ben Baker/Facebook)

In a Facebook post, Baker wrote, My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain. Most of you know my daughter and son-in-law Davy and Natalie Lloyd are full time missionaries in Haiti. They were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed. They went to Heaven together. Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well. I have no other words for now.

Former president Donald Trump shared Bakers announcement on Truth Social, writing, God bless Davy and Natalie. Such a tragedy. Haiti is totally out of control. Find the killers NOW!!!

How did Davy and Natalie Lloyd die?

Davy was volunteering with a group named Missions in Haiti Inc, which posted about the incident as an ongoing situation some hours ago. A Facebook post read, Urgent prayer needed. Sam and I came to the states yesterday since the airport opened back up. This evening when Davy, Natalie and the kids were coming out of Youth at the church they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys. Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left. Another gang came after to see what was going on and if they could help, so they say. No one understood what they were doing, not sure what took place but one was shot and killed and now this gang went into full attack mode.

Davy, Natalie and Jude was in my house at the end of the property using the star link internet to call me. So they are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot. Their lives are in danger. I have been trying all my contacts to get a police armored car there to evacuate them out to safety but can't get anyone to do. I also am trying to negotiate with the gang so how much $ to stand down and let them leave and get to safety. PLEASE PRAY- Going to be a long night. The phones have all died I can't get a hold of anybody for the past several hours now to know what was going on, the post added.

Hours later, another post by the group confirmed that Natalie, David, and the third person, Jude, have been murdered. Davy and Natalie and Jude were shot and killed by the gang about 9 o'clock this evening. We all are devastated, the post said.

Natalie and Davy tied the knot in 2022. Three months later, they moved to Haiti. The US State Department issued a travel advisory in March, asking Americans not to travel there because the security conditions are unpredictable and dangerous.

Missions in Haiti Inc., which the couple served in, was founded in 2000 by David and Alicia Lloyd, Davys parents.
LEWISTON, Maine  Problems with police communication and coordination in the fraught hours after Maines deadliest mass shooting will be under scrutiny Friday from an independent commission, which plans to hear more testimony from law enforcement sources. Police response to Maine mass shooting gets deeper scrutiny from independent panel

Well-meaning officers creating chaos by showing up without being asked and officers believed to have arrived intoxicated in a tactical vehicle are among the disturbing allegations that have come before the commission, Chair Daniel Wathen said last week.

The details were outlined in an after-action report by police in Portland, Maine, which is about a 45-minute drive south of where the shooting took place in Lewiston.

However, its unclear exactly whats on the table for Fridays meeting. Wathen said some of the things contained in the report were outside the scope of the commissions work and best handled by police supervisors.

Eighteen people were killed and 13 injured by an Army reservist at a bowling alley and a bar and grill in Lewiston. The shooter fled the scene in a vehicle that was abandoned in a nearby town.

The commission previously heard testimony from law enforcement officials about the evening of Oct. 25, when law enforcement agencies mobilized for a search as additional police officers poured into the region. State Police took over coordination of the search for the gunman, whose body was found dead from suicide two days later.

Some of the tense moments came when law enforcement located the gunman's vehicle several hours after the shooting.

State police used a cautious approach, angering some officers who wanted to immediately search the nearby woods. Well-meaning police officers without any official assignment began showing up, raising concerns of police firing on each other in the darkness. The arrival of so many officers also contaminated the scene, making it all but impossible to use dogs to track the gunman.

At one point, a tactical vehicle from the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office nearly crashed into another tactical vehicle from the Portland Police Department near that scene. A Portland Police Department after-action report suggested the occupants of the Cumberland County vehicle had been drinking but the sheriff denied that his deputies were intoxicated.

Representatives of the Cumberland County Sheriffs Office and Portland Police Department said they werent sending officers to testify Friday.

The commission was appointed by the governor and is comprised of seven members including mental health professionals and former prosecutors and judges. Wathen is a former Maine chief justice.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
On Wednesday, former presidential candidate Nikki Haley said that she'll be voting for Trump in November despite previously declaring him unhinged and not qualified to go on as the nation's leader. The Wednesday event at Hudson Institute in Washington, D.C., marked her first event since she called off her campaign in March (FILES) US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Nikki Haley, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations in the Oval office of the White House on October 9, 2018 in Washington, DC. Former presidential hopeful Nikki Haley said May 22, 2024 she will vote for Donald Trump in November's US election, ending months of silence after quitting the contest to choose a Republican to face Joe Biden. (Photo by Olivier Douliery / AFP)(AFP)

Both Trump and Haley voiced severe criticism of each other until the former South Carolina governor dropped out of the presidential race earlier this year. While suspending her campaign in March, Haley claimed, It is now up to Donald Trump to reach the votes of those in our party and beyond it who did not support him. She also added, At its best, politics is about bringing people into your cause, not turning them away. And our conservative cause badly needs more people.

Since then, speculative talk about Haley possibly standing in as one of the top contenders for the vice presidential pick has also erupted. However, Trump ultimately squashed those rumours in his May 11 Truth Social post, claiming that she is not under consideration to be his running mate.

As the continuing back-and-forth between the two political figures takes another turn amid Trump's ongoing campaigns, the former US president responded to Haley's support for him in the upcoming elections.

Also read | It was a lovefest, Donald Trump claims winning over Democrat bastion of South Bronx with huge turnout

Donald Trump and Nikki Haley on the same team?

On Thursday, Trump led his first major campaign event in New York since 2016  a rally in the Bronx. Speaking of Haley's indispensable presence, he said, I think she's going to be on our team because we have a lot of the same ideas, the same thoughts.

The probable Republican presidential nominee told News12 New York that he appreciated Haley's support while simultaneously acknowledging their nasty campaign. He continued, But she's a very capable person, and I'm sure she's going to be on our team in some form, absolutely.

Despite name-dropping her again, Trump dodged questions about the former US ambassador to the United Nations potentially joining him as his vice presidential pick. Instead of deciphering Haley's position vis-a-vis his team, he only highlighted several other names of renowned Republicans, who he believes would do a really fantastic job, including Sens. Marco Rubio and J.D Vance, Rep. Elise Stefanik and Dr Ben Carson.

As to when his final decision would be dealt out, Trump said foregrounded sometime during the convention as the time window. While the Republican National Convention is slated to take place from July 15 to 18 in Milwaukee, Trump is also embroiled in his ongoing hush money trial, with final arguments to be revealed next week.
Days after the Israeli PM vowed that they will continue to fight against Hamas even without US aid, House Speaker Mike Johnson stated Thursday that Benjamin Netanyahu will "soon" address a joint session of Congress. According to a source familiar with the matter, Netanyahu has been communicating with Republican Congressional leaders in recent weeks about a possible joint session address, The Times of Israel reported.(AFP)

Speaking at the Israeli Embassy's annual Independence Day celebration in Washington, Johnson said: "This will be a timely and very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need."

While the House Speaker did not give specific details like where the address will take place, he informed the reporters that US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had assured that he would approve the invitation.

This development comes after Schumer criticised Netanyahu as a barrier to peace and urged for early elections in Israel to replace him.

Will Johnson's move upset Democrats?

Johnson's decision would undoubtedly annoy some Democrats, particularly when the US is pushing Israel to do more to safeguard Palestinian civilians amidst war on Gaza. Back in 2015, 60 Democrats boycotted Netanyahu's joint session address, which was arranged by Republican congressional leaders when Barack Obama was president.

Reacting to the idea of inviting Netanyahu, former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said No", as per Axios.

Meanwhile, other Democratic party sources termed Netanyahus expected speech to Congress as grave mistake, stating that "It would increase polarisation and highlight the disagreement between Democrats and Republicans over the conduct of Netanyahu and Israel.

A considerably bigger number of Democrats may again boycott a Netanyahu address that comes amid the Israel-Hamas war and straining ties between Biden and Israeli PM. Earlier this month, Biden issued a stern warning to Israel about withholding arms if it launched an extensive offensive in Rafah.

Also Read: Biden, Netanyahu speak as Israel tells Gazans to leave Rafah

What's the intention behind Netanyahu's address?

According to a source familiar with the matter, Netanyahu has been communicating with Republican Congressional leaders in recent weeks about a possible joint session address, The Times of Israel reported. The session is being seen as a chance to make Israel's case strong on the global stage, the insider added.

In case Netanyahu accepts the proposal, he would become the first world leader to address joint sessions of Congress four times.

Meanwhile, Democratic US Representative Pete Aguilar reiterated the US commitment to protect Israel's sovereignty.

Johnson and Aguilar both opposed the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor's move to pursue arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his defense chief over Israel's war against Hamas, which was launched after the terrorist organisation attacked Israel, killing 1,200 civilians.

Johnson also took a veiled jibe at Biden, claiming that "some leaders" had attempted to block "vital weapons" from Israel, despite the fact that the supply of arms has generally been maintained.
In a remarkable achievement, India born Jaya Badiga has made history by becoming the first Telugu woman to be appointed as a judge in the United States. She was recently appointed to the Sacramento County Superior Court in California. Badiga's heartfelt swearing-in speech in Telugu. Jaya Badiga has made history by becoming the first Telugu woman to be appointed as a judge in the United States.(@SacramentoCourt)

She began her speech in her mother tongue, Telugu, saying, Mee andariki naa hrudayapurvaka swagatham, which means "A heartfelt welcome to you all." She concluded with the Sanskrit mantra, Asato Ma Sadgamaya, translating to "Lead me from falsehood to truth," a testament to her deep cultural roots and respect for her heritage.

Jaya Badiga's heart-warming speech goes viral

Many on social media complemented her for her absolute humbleness - Appreciate her connection with ROOTS.

Who is Jaya Badiga?

Born in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Badiga's journey to this prestigious role is inspiring. Before her recent appointment, she served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2022. Her appointment by California Governor Gavin Newsom fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Robert S. Lapham.

Badiga is a certified family law specialist with more than a decade of experience in Family Law, reflecting her commitment to serving the community with dedication and expertise. Her academic background is equally impressive. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Santa Clara University School of Law and holds a Master of Arts degree in International Relations and International Communications from Boston University.

In addition to her recent role, Badiga has a notable career in public service. She served as an Attorney at the California Department of Health Care Services in 2020 and at the California Governors Office of Emergency Services in 2018. A member of the Democratic Party, her professional journey underscores her dedication to justice and public service.

Badigas appointment has been celebrated widely, particularly within the Telugu community, for whom her speech in Telugu and Sanskrit was a moment of immense pride and connection. Her ability to blend her professional achievements with her cultural heritage has made her an inspiring figure for many.

Who is Raj Singh Badhesha? First Sikh judge in California

Separately, another significant judicial appointment was made by Governor Newsom. Raj Singh Badhesha of Fresno County has been appointed as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court. Badhesha, the first Sikh to be appointed to the Fresno County bench and the first Sikh judge in California who observes the practice of wearing the dastar or pagri, has also been warmly welcomed by the Central Valley Punjabi and Asian communities.

Badhesha, who has served as Chief Assistant City Attorney in the Fresno City Attorneys Office since 2022, expressed his gratitude and commitment to justice following his appointment. His educational background includes a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of Law in San Francisco.
UK-born teenager Carlo Acutis, who passed away at the age of 15 in 2006, is set to become the first millennial saint of the Catholic Church. Acutis, who was considered to be a computer prodigy, died in 2006 from leukemia. Computer prodigy Carlo Acutis, who died at 15

Carlo Acutis was born in London in 1991. He developed multiple websites to spread the Catholic Church's teaching before he died, leading to him being dubbed Gods influencer'. He passed away in Italy, and his body lay on full display along with his belongings in a tomb for devotees.

According to his mother, Carlo showed early signs of religious devotion as he asked his parents to take him to churches when he was only three years old. He also often donated his pocket money to the church to help the poor. Later, Carlo taught himself how to code to build websites for Catholic organisations.

One of the most prominent websites built by Acuti is a platform that documents all the miracles witnessed across the globe. The website now has been translated to multiple languages.

The 15-year-old computer prodigy embarked on the path of sainthood after a 7-year-old boy from Brazil reportedly recovered from a rare pancreatic disease after touching one of Acuti's t-shirts. The recovery of the young boy was assessed and approved as a miracle by the Pope.

For a person to be qualified as a saint, they need to have two miracles attributed to them and approved by the Pope. On Thursday, Pope Francis approved a second miracle attributed to Acutis, making him the youngest saint till date.

As per media reports, a university student in Florida, suffering through a brain bleed after a head injury, miraculously recovered days after her mother prayed at the tomb of Acutis. She was reportedly taken off the ventilator, and 10 days later, scans showed that her brain injury had disappeared.

This makes Acuti the only person born in the 1990s to be canonised by the Catholic Church.
Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager, will soon become the first millennial to be granted sainthood. On Thursday, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis recognised a second miracle attached to his name, paving the way for his future canonisation. " Informally dubbed God's Influencer, he unfortunately passed away on October 12, 2006, at the age of 15, after succumbing to leukaemia. FILE - An image of 15-year-old Carlo Acutis, an Italian boy who died in 2006 of leukemia, is seen during his beatification ceremony celebrated by Cardinal Agostino Vallini, center, in the St. Francis Basilica, in Assisi, Italy, on Oct. 10, 2020. Pope Francis has paved the way for the canonization of the first saint of the millennial generation on Thursday, attributing a second miracle to a 15-year-old Italian computer whiz who died of leukemia in 2006. Carlo Acutis, born on May 3, 1991, in London and then moved with his Italian parents to Milan as a child, was the youngest contemporary person to be beatified by Francis in Assisi in 2020. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia, File)(AP)

Born in London on May 3, 1991, the computer prodigy was an avid gamer. However, as recounted on carlosacutis.com, in addition to his main duties as that of student and son, he used his technological expertise at a young age to spread the word about the Catholic faith online before his death from cancer.

As the first step towards his sainthood, the Pope beatified Blessed Carlo Acutis in 2020 in Assisi, where his remains are buried today and enshrined. His path to canonisation first came to light when Pope Francis attributed a miracle to Carlo.

Also read | King Charles and Prince William abruptly cancel upcoming royal engagements with apology, here's why

A second miracle was required for him to officially attain sainthood, which was ultimately recognised on Thursday and helped Carlo earn the title.

Why is Carlo Acutis attaining sainthood?

Carlo Acutis' miracles: In 2020, the Italian teenager was beatified when the first miracle was attributed to him. For the said marvellous wonder, Carlo supposedly healed a Brazilian child troubled by a congenital disease impacting his pancreas.

Following the recognition of his first miracle, his mother, Antonia Acutis, spoke to The New York Times. In her 2020 interview with the American news outlet, she revealed that Carlo started attending daily mass at 7, reigniting her faith as she joined the Church again. His mother also claimed that several people from across the globe had witnessed a turning point in their lives upon being blessed with medical miracles after they prayed to Carlo.

Dubbed the influencer for God, Carlo was the light answer to the dark side of the web, said Ms Acutis.

As for the second miracle credited to him that ultimately made things official, Acutis was involved in helping a university student grappling with head trauma.

According to Vatican News, Carlo's recognition was attributed to a Costa Rican woman's prayers being answered. Blessed Carlo's remains are enshrined in the Italian town of Assisi alongside other relics associated with him. A woman named Liliana reportedly visited the tomb on July 8, 2022, and left a letter detailing her troubles.

Also read | 'Do Not Travel': US re-issues severe warning for Venezuela, here's why

In her written account, she mentioned her daughter Valeria, who had fallen off her bicycle in Florence on July 2. Upon her accident, she suffered severe head trauma and required craniotomy surgery and the removal of the right occipital bone to reduce pressure on her brain." Doctors solemnly claimed she had a very low chance of survival.

Lilianas secretary addressed her pleas to Blessed Carlo, and eventually, she also visited his shrine. Reportedly, the same day, she discovered that her daughter had begun to breathe spontaneously. Valeria subsequently also started moving and gradually regained her speech. As she showed visible signs of improvement, a CT scan also revealed that her brain's haemorrhage had supposedly disappeared ten days after her mother embarked on her pilgrimage. The previously afflicted girl was then transferred to a rehabilitation facility.

A date for Carlo's formal canonisation ceremony has yet to be announced. According to The Times, Kathleen Sprows Cummings, a professor of history at the University of Notre Dame and the author of A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American, stated that Carlo's example would help bridge the gap between the Church and young Catholics.
May 24, 2024: The U.S. Air Force recently demonstrated an autonomous (no pilot) F-16 using flight software enhanced with AI (Artificial Intelligence) that demonstrated it was able to fly combat maneuvers better than most human pilots. Moreover, a pilotless fighter would be smaller and capable of maneuvers that a human pilot could not handle. Human pilots cannot handle certain violent maneuvers because the G (gravity) forces cause the pilot to black out. Unmanned aircraft only have to worry about violent maneuvers that might cause the airframe to be damaged, perhaps enough to cause a crash.

For decades commercial and military aircraft manufacturers have been seeking ways to add more automation. For example, in 2019 the U.S. Air Force demonstrated a new system that could turn any manned aircraft into an unmanned aircraft, controlled by a system of electronics and mechanical devices that literally replaces the human pilot in the cockpit. Best of all, ROBOPilot can be quickly removed so a human pilot can fly the aircraft again. Installation takes a little longer, but not by much because the device is designed to be available quickly should the need arise.

What is novel about ROBOPilot is not that it can replace a human pilot, but that the ROBOPilot equipment is flexible enough to be quickly installed in any manned aircraft. ROBOPilot software has to have an electronic profile of each aircraft it can be installed in and has to be tested to ensure the ROBOPilot mechanical components can use all the controls of that aircraft. That said, cockpits on aircraft are pretty standard. The most complex and eccentric cockpits are for fighter aircraft and the air force has decades of experience building custom versions of what became ROBOPilot for several generations of jet fighters.

The first test aircraft for ROBOPilot was a fifty year old Cessna single-engine commercial aircraft. These aircraft dont have a lot of the electronic controls modern aircraft use. While electronic controls are easier for ROBOPilot, the most difficult aspect of developing ROBOPilot is creating a robotic arm and hand to handle the many tasks a human pilot has to handle. The 1960s Cessna was mostly mechanical controls and analog displays for instruments. Moreover the Cessna cockpit is cramped compared to more modern aircraft. The Cessna, in effect, was a more challenging test for ROBOPilot than a larger more modern aircraft. But the Cessna was also cheaper to use as a test aircraft for the first flight, from a remote airfield in a thinly populated area, in case all the safety devices failed and there was a crash. There were no problems and the entire two-hour flight was recorded on video from inside the aircraft.

The ROBOPilot project then moved on to see how difficult it would be to adapt the basic ROBOPilot system to other aircraft. The goal is to have a ROBOPilot kit that aircraft maintainers can, with a minimum of training, install in any of the aircraft ROBOPilot has a profile for. This includes test flights and regular profile upgrades to match changes made to each aircrafts flight controls.

ROBOPilot was developed, in part, because of a larger Loyal Wingman program that uses drone/UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) fighters, or other types of aircraft, for particularly dangerous missions. That idea was the outgrowth of more than half a century of efforts to automate cockpit functions. By the 1970s it was possible to create robotic pilots for fighter aircraft. Back then that had some very critical practical applications. The main purpose of remotely controlled fighter aircraft is so they could be used as realistic aerial targets. The equipment used to convert retired fighters into robotic ones have become more capable and reliable since the 1970s and part of that effort turned into the successful development of automatic landing systems for commercial aircraft, which are now a common item that takes a lot of stress out of landing an airliner at night or in bad weather. This software has even been adapted to land jet fighters or naval UAVs on aircraft carriers at night.

Another approach to this automation appeared in the form of PIBOT, which puts a robot in the pilots seat. The robot is designed to handle the flight controls like a human but do it under AI control. Tests so far have been successful and the test and development program is scheduled to be completed by 2026 with versions available for commercial and military aircraft. PIBOT can also be adapted to operate trucks and other vehicles. That means military truck convoys could use PIBOT to replace all but one or two of the human drivers.

ROBOPilot and PIBOT can also be used for the Loyal Wingman program. In early 2017 the air force demonstrated that F-16s equipped to operate as UAVs could successfully operate in formation with manned F-16s. This was an important goal for Loyal Wingman, a program for eventually integrating combat UAVs with piloted warplanes. The F-16 UAV needed software that would allow it to fly in formation, execute attack missions on its own and avoid interference from jamming. That software worked although the initial flight tests of Loyal Wingman simply confirmed that the F-16 UAVs could safely fly in formation with piloted F-16s and effectively receive and respond to commands from the flight leader or other piloted F-16s.

Work is continuing to develop software that will enable the F-16 UAV to carry out complex attack runs on its own. This involves avoiding ground fire from missiles and using its own EW (electronic warfare) equipment to deal with jamming. All this live software testing would eventually be used in combat UAVs like the ones the navy has been testing and the air force is now developing. The U.S. Army has already been testing similar software control of UAVs by suitably equipped with secure digital communications gear used by attack helicopters.

Loyal Wingman came about after four years of effort to develop a UAV version of the F-16. This UAV version was based on the QF-16, the remotely controlled target version of the F-16. Back in 2013 the air force got its first QF-16 flying and began converting over a hundred retired F-16s to QF-16s. At the time it was noted that with a little extra work the QF-16 could be turned into a combat UAV for dangerous missions like SEAD (suppression of enemy defenses) or attacking ground targets guarded by heavy air defenses. The air force was already planning to use combat UAVs for this but those are not available yet. It was noted that QF type aircraft use GPS to help with navigation and to ensure that QFs flying in formation don't collide with one another. The QF-16 also carries sensors to detect near misses by missiles. Out of that came modified software and some additional hardware to enable the recent flight tests.

There are several other reasons for adapting the F-16 to be a combat UAV, in addition to designing combat UAVs from scratch. For one thing, the UAV version of any combat aircraft is superior in some ways to one with a pilot in it. This is mainly because pilots black out when the aircraft makes turns too sharply at high speed. QF-16s used regularly for Loyal Wingman training also make it possible to monitor via additional sensors in the QF-16, how extreme for piloted aircraft maneuvers stress the fighters. Tests of manned aircraft have always been part of the development and testing process for new and modified aircraft. But those tests were limited by the cost of losing a lot of aircraft. By the 1960s fighter aircraft design had reached the point where the aircraft could perform maneuvers, like high speed turns, that humans could not handle. The air force discovered how effective this capability was during the 1970s when they rigged some jet fighters to fly without a pilot and had them go up against manned aircraft. The remote-controlled fighters were able to outmaneuver the same aircraft carrying pilots. It was a scary demonstration of what was to come.

The QF-16 has already demonstrated its ability to carry out acrobatic maneuvers under remote control. This would be useful in getting into heavily defended air space. Adding more sensors and flight control software could produce a formidable combat UAV. Even when all the QF-16 conversions are completed there will be several hundred retired F-16s suitable for conversion to combat UAVs.

The air force ordered the first QF-16s in 2010 and the initial flight test took place in September 2013. The QF-16s are converted from existing F-16s that have been retired from service. The air force ordered 125 QF-16s and deliveries began in 2015. Each QF-16 conversion costs about $1.2 million and consists of installing hardware and software that enables remote, no pilot in the cockpit, flight control. The process of equipping the F-16 with all the necessary sensors like cameras and remote feeds of the aircraft radar, and remote capabilities took longer than expected, even though there was a lot of experience doing this to older aircraft like F-4s, F-100s, F-102s, and F-106s. The original plan was to introduce the first QF-16s in 2011. The QF-16s can still carry a pilot who can fly the aircraft or simply observe how the remote control process works.

The QF-16 replaces the older QF-4 drone aircraft. Nearly 250 F-4 Phantom fighters were modified to fly by remote control. The mods cost about $1.4 million per aircraft. The QF-4 first appeared when the U.S. Air Force retired its F-4 fighters in the 1980s. The air force has run out of retired, but still flyable F-4s to convert and QF-4 conversions ceased in 2013.

Training operations destroy up to 25 remotely controlled QF class fighters a year. As the supply of decommissioned F-4s was exhausted, the QF-16s arrived just in time. Before the QF-4, the air force had converted 218 F-100s for use from 1983-92, 136 F-102s from 1974-85, and 210 F-106s from 1990-98 to act as full-scale target aircraft. There are smaller UAVs that are also used as targets. The full-scale models are needed to fully test the capabilities of new, and existing, missiles. Nothing like using real missiles against real targets to build pilot confidence and be sure the missiles will work in combat.

There are so many retired F-16s available that there are plenty that could be used as combat UAVs. The F-16 manufacturer is not doing UAV conversion research, but rather another aircraft company, Boeing, which sees a potential market for such aircraft. These UCAVs (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles) already exist as the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper. But an MQ-16 would be cheaper. This would be an inexpensive way to see what a more ambitious and larger UCAV could do.
A recent report uncovered "utter chaos" in the frantic first moments in a search for a gunman who carried out a mass shooting in Maine.

The Portland Police Department report looked into the response after Robert Card killed 18 people and wounded 13 others at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston. Both the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office and Portland Police Department tactical teams were responding to the spot where Card's vehicle was abandoned by the Androscoggin River.

Among those who joined the search was a group of deputies who had been drinking and nearly crashed their armored vehicle, according to the after-action report obtained by the Associated Press.

Others showed up in civilian clothes and could have been mistaken for the suspect creating a dangerous situation where officers could have opened fire on each other.

Tactical team leader Nicholas Goodman said in the report that the officers who showed up without orders risked doing more harm than good.

"I have never seen the amount of self-dispatching, federal involvement with plain clothes and utter chaos with self-dispatching in my career," Goodman wrote.

Daniel Wathen, the chairperson of an independent commission investigating the shooting, called them "disturbing allegations."

He said some issues may be outside the panel's scope, including the allegations of drinking. The nine-page report, which was partially redacted, was obtained by the AP through the state's Freedom of Access Act.

Card's body was found two days later after the mass killing. He died by suicide.
A disturbing 3-minute video of five female Israeli soldiers who were captured by Hamas gunmen during the October 7th attacks was released on Wednesday.

The video shows the women injured and covered in blood before they were trucked into Gaza to be held hostage.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum got permission from the families of the women to release the video. They hope to raise pressure on the Israeli government to bring home the remaining hostages being held in Gaza.

One of the women had blood smeared across her face, while another was bleeding from her mouth.

The soldiers in the video were identified as Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniella Gilboa and Naama Levy, according to the New York Post.

Trigger alert 



The video of the female observers abduction, is a wake-up call to the civilized world. We must condemn those actions and we can not abandon the hostages held captive for 229 days.



This video, captured by the body cameras of Hamas terrorists on October 7th, pic.twitter.com/wuRxpsTBtA  Bring Them Home Now (@bringhomenow) May 22, 2024

The videos were edited and censored to exclude the most disturbing scenes, such as the numerous murdered young men and women at the Nahal Oz base and inside the bomb shelter from which the women were taken.

One of the gunmen says, "Here are the girls who can get pregnant" adding "You're so beautiful."

The video shows them moving the injured women into the back of a vehicle as gunfire rings out on the overrun military base.

One of the women is hopping on one foot to avoid using her injured leg.

"I can tell you that I am one of the only mothers who have seen the video," hostage mother Shira Albag told public broadcaster KAN. "Most of the mothers have not watched it. It is very difficult to watch."

Hamas kidnapped seven female soldiers from the Nahal Oz base, the Times of Israel reports. One was rescued in late October. Another, 19-year-old

Nao Marciano was allegedly killed by Hamas inside Gaza's al-Shifa Hospital, the Jerusalem Post reports.

"The video is a damning testament to the nation's failure to bring home the hostages, who have been forsaken for 229 days," the group said in a post on X.

"The Israeli government and the international community can't waste another moment - we must get back to the negotiation table today."
A prominent Texas judge vanished weeks after sentencing a convicted child murderer to life in prison.

Harris County Judge Kelli Johnson hasn't set foot in her office at the 178th Criminal District Courthouse since April, according to KTRK-TV.

On May 4, officers responded to the judge's home for a crisis intervention call, a police report stated, according to the outlet. The details of the call remain unclear.

This week, a court spokesperson confirmed the judge was out addressing "personal matters" after an unidentified coworker claimed Johnson was "a danger to herself and to the community," the station reported.

Just last month, Johnson presided over the high-profile murder case of Brian Coulter, 34, and sentenced him to life in prison without parole for the fatal beating of his girlfriend's son, 8-year-old Kendrick Lee, the Houston Chronicle reported.

Kendrick died in either late September or early October 2020. His skeletal remains were recovered in October 2021.

Coulter and his girlfriend, Gloria Williams, forced her three other children, now 10, 12, and 17, to live with Kendrick's corpse at a Houston apartment for a year, while they moved out, authorities said, according to the Chronicle.

"Those children have haunted me this past week  they have interrupted my safe space when I leave this building," Johnson told Coulter during his sentencing last month. "In prison, I hope those boys who have haunted my mind, haunt yours."

Since Johnson's absence, other judges have been forced to step in to oversee her cases.

She was first elected in 2016 after 17 years as an assistant district attorney. She shares two children with her wife, and is Harris County's first openly gay female judge.
Sweden pledged $7 billion in military support to Ukraine, on Wednesday, just two months after the Scandinavian country joined NATO, breaking with a centuries-long tradition of geopolitical neutrality.

The $7 billion - or 75 billion Swedish crowns - will be evenly distributed over three years. The military support could take the form of both donated equipment and direct financial contributions, according to a joint statement from the country's defense and finance ministries.

"With this proposal, the total military and civilian support from Sweden to Ukraine will amount to over SEK 100 billion [nearly $10 billion]," the ministries said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to the Swedes in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

"I appreciate Sweden's long-term support for Ukraine, which will strengthen everyone-not just Ukraine but Europe's entire perimeter from the Baltics to the Black Sea and every region where Russian madmen may attempt to revise land or sea borders," he wrote on Wednesday evening.

The Swedish government emphasized that the payments were intended to assist Ukraine while ensuring its own national security.

"With Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the security situation in Europe is the most serious since World War II. This means that the rearmament at home must continue at the same time as the support for Ukraine continues," the government's press release said.

"The cooperation parties therefore also agree that support to Ukraine is carried out so that the build-up of Swedish defense capability is not undermined or that other necessary reforms are crowded out."
China launched military drills Thursday in the waters surrounding Taiwan.

It referred to the drills as a "strong punishment" after Taiwan's new president pledged to defend its sovereignty, the New York Times reported.

Taiwan scrambled jets and put missile, naval and land units on alert in response, the Associated Press reported.

The Chinese military said the drills were meant to test its navy and air capabilities and their ability to hit targets and win control of the battlefield.

China claims the island is part of its national territory but the Taiwan people firmly back their de facto independence.

Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te called for Beijing to stop what he called its military intimidation during his inauguration this week.

He vowed to keep Taiwan's democracy safe from China.

As part of the drills, 15 Chinese navy vessels, 16 Chinese coast guard vessels and 42 Chinese military aircraft were detected, the Taiwan's Defense Ministry reported.

"Facing external challenges and threats, we will continue to maintain the values of freedom and democracy," Lai said Thursday as he visited a marine base south of the capital of Taipei.

Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Stephen Sklenka, the deputy commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, called on Asia-Pacific nations to condemn China's military exercises.

"It's one thing when the United States condemns the Chinese, but it has a far more powerful effect, I believe, when it comes from nations within this region," Sklenka told the Australian press association.
Ahead of this year's commencement, Harvard's governing board has rejected the recommendation of faculty to allow 13 pro-Palestinian students who participated in a three-week encampment at the school to receive their degrees alongside their classmates.

Impacted students will still be able to participate in commencement ceremonies on Thursday; however, they will not receive diplomas, compromising their post-graduation plans.

The announcement follows a vote by several members of Harvard's Faculty of Arts and Sciences to grant the 13 students degrees as the school prepares for the most important day of the academic year.

The faculty was shocked when the governing board overruled their vote because they stood firm in their belief that student protestors are receiving unfair punishment.

"I'm upset," said Ryan Enos, a professor of government.

"This was pure hubris by the Corporation. To think a bunch of billionaires that visit Cambridge a couple times a year could tell the professors who educate these students that they know better than them who deserve to earn degrees-the audacity is breathtaking. In my opinion, the Corporation is not worthy of leading the university."

The Harvard Corporation issued a statement addressing its decision.

Citing the Harvard College handbook, it states that a "degree will not be granted to a student who is not in good standing or against whom a disciplinary charge is pending with the Administrative Board, the Honor Council, or the disciplinary board of another school."

The students in question are either on probation or have been suspended.

The Corporation has faced pressure from conservative politicians, donors, students, and alumni who support Israel to show that the protesters, who repeatedly ignored disciplinary warnings during their encampment, will face serious consequences, according to The Boston Globe.

The main pro-Palestinian student group at Harvard criticized the Corporation's decision.

"Today's actions have plunged the university even further into a crisis of legitimacy and governance, which will have major repercussions for Harvard in the coming months and years," the Harvard Out of Occupied Palestine coalition said in a statement.

Graduating senior Jeremy Ornstein said the student body is divided and added that "people feel pain on all sides" of the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Stephen Marglin, a professor of economics who has taught at Harvard for 59 years, called the Corporation's decision "a slap in the face" to faculty and likely to prompt protests at graduation Thursday.
Newly filed court documents say the bodies of two women who were abducted and killed in Oklahoma were reportedly found buried in an ice chest.

Veronica Butler,27, and Jillian Kelley, 39, were killed on a March 30 trip from Kansas to Oklahoma to visit Butler's children.

Five people including Tifany Adams, the paternal grandmother of Butler's children face charges in connection with the killings.

Investigators announced last month that Adams, Tad Cullum, and Cole Twombly and Cora Twombly had been arrested. A fifth suspect, Paul Grice, was later arrested.

The suspects were allegedly members of an anti-government group with a religious affiliation called "God's Misfits," according to their arrest affidavits. They reportedly held weekly meetings at the Twombly's home and another home.

The group allegedly murdered the two women because of a child custody dispute.

Butler was allowed supervised visits with the children each Saturday.

Kelley, the wife of a pastor, was Butler's court-authorized choice to supervise visitations.

Police found their vehicle abandoned near Highway 95 in Texas County and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said there was evidence to indicate foul play. The evidence reportedly included blood in the vehicle.

The teenage witness told authorities that Cora Twombly said that she and her husband blocked the road to stop Butler and Kelley and divert them to where Adams, her boyfriend Cullum and another person were waiting for them.

The teen reportedly asked why Kelley had to die and was told that "she wasn't innocent either" because she supported Butler," the court papers said.

Search warrants obtained by WFOR-TV stated that, after a two-day excavation in a cow pasture on land leased by Tad Collum, one of the suspects under arrest, the bodies of the two women were found in a chest freezer under poured concrete.

The documents do not disclose who they died.

The landowner says he was shocked when police showed up and found the bodies.

In a motion reportedly filed last November, Adams had opposed adjustments to a supervised visitation arrangement Butler had with the children.

She allegedly claimed that the children had been exposed to sexual abuse while under Butler's care.

Kelley was the wife of a pastor at Hugoton First Christian Church in Kansas. Heath Kelley recently agreed to serve as the new pastor of Willow Christian Church in Nebraska.
Vladimir Putin's military forces are "completely bogged down" in the battle for Kharkiv, the Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief said Thursday, as his country works to beat back the latest Russian incursion on their northeastern border.

"After the first minor successes in the course of offensive battles in Kharkiv Oblast, the enemy was completely bogged down in street battles for Volchansk and suffered very high losses in the personnel of the assault units," Oleksandr Syrskyi wrote on social media.

"Currently, the enemy is transferring reserves from various directions, trying to support active assault operations, but without success."

Moscow's ground assault marked one of the biggest losses of territory for Ukraine since the outbreak of total war in 2022. Ukrainian soldiers are reportedly overwhelmed and stretched thin across the 620 mile front line, while Russian soldiers continue to bombard their troops.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on Ukraine's allies to provide more aid on Thursday, after Russia fired 15 missiles at Kharkiv, killing seven people inside a printing house.

"This weakness is not our weakness, but that of the world's, which for the third year already has not dared to deal with the terrorists exactly as they deserve," he wrote on social media.

This sentiment was also shared by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who criticized allies that have Patriot missile systems but won't lend them to Ukraine.

"No naming and shaming, but I once again urge countries that have 'Patriots' to speed up decisions and provide these systems to Ukraine. I believe that seven 'Patriot' systems are not a high price to pay for long-term peace in Europe," he wrote.

"Unfortunately, mere words of solidarity do not intercept Russian missiles."
The Supreme Court overturned a lower court decision on Thursday, ruling that a newly drawn South Carolina Congressional district does not discriminate against Black voters, handing a win to the Republican Party in a critical swing state.

The justices ruled 6-3 that moving the Congressional boundary lines so that 30,000 Black Charleston residents were no longer voters in South Carolina's First congressional district was not a form of unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.

The decision hinges on whether moving predominantly Black voters into a different district was based on party affiliation or race. While South Carolina is traditionally a red state, 78% of Black South Carolinians are Democrats. While the majority of South Carolinians are white, roughly a quarter of the population is Black.

"The circumstantial evidence falls far short of showing that race, not partisan preferences, drove the districting process, and none of the expert reports offered by the Challengers provides any significant support for their position," Justice Samuel Alito wrote in the majority opinion.

Regardless of the South Carolina GOP's intention in drawing the new map, however, the end result is the same: South Carolina's First Congressional District is now definitievely under Republican control.

"What a message to send to state legislators and mapmakers" Justice Elena Kagan wrote in her dissenting opinion. "Go right ahead, this court says to states today."

The decision was also criticized by Janai Nelson, the president of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

"The highest court in our land greenlit racial discrimination in South Carolina's redistricting process, denied Black voters the right to be free from the race-based sorting and sent a message that facts, process, and precedent will not protect the Black vote," she said.
At least three people were injured Thursday night after multiple shots were fired during a high school graduation ceremony in Oakland, California, as graduates and family members fled in panic, authorities reported.

Oakland police Lt. Robert Trevino told reporters at the scene that the shooting at Skyline High School was sparked by "some kind of dispute," and involved multiple suspects.

"We do know there were multiple suspects," Trevino said. "We're trying to identify exactly how many."

Officers arrived to find two adults  a man and a woman  with gunshot injuries. They were listed in stable condition after being rushed to a local hospital. A third person from the scene arrived later at a hospital for treatment of unknown injuries, according to the Oakland Fire Department.

The school was later determined to be "safe and clear," according to Trevino.

A witness on the scene described the chaos inside the school as the shots rang out."You start seeing the people running," the unidentified witness told ABC News."I started ducking down and I started ducking down ... you're just trying to figure out if it's some pop, like celebration, or what."

OPDis investigating a shooting with multiple victims. The shooting occurred just before 7:45 p.m. in the 12200 block of Skyline Boulevard.



When officers arrived, they located two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.



More details in the linkhttps://t.co/jmHVCJ2DI1? pic.twitter.com/sHOL4OEjRE  Oakland Police Dept. (@oaklandpoliceca) May 24, 2024

Trevino said Oakland police are "pretty well-trained at critical incidents" so were able to get panicked graduates and guests out of the building and away from the scene safely and quickly.

An investigation is continuing.
Ahead of Memorial Day weekend, the New England Aquarium is warning beachgoers to be wary of increased shark activity off the coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts.

There hasn't yet been a direct great white shark sighting yet this season, but the aquarium is warning that multiple marine mammals have been found with white shark bites recently. The New England Aquarium responds to mammal strandings in the region and participates in conservation research.

"Although we haven't seen a white shark just yet this season, we know they're here. With beach weather in the forecast and Memorial Day Weekend approaching, this is a good reminder for people to review shark safety guidelines and be shark smart," John Chisholm, an adjunct scientist in the Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, said in a statement.

Chisholm recently captured images of a seal with fresh bite marks off the coast of Plymouth, and advised swimmers to avoid areas where seals or schools of fish are visible in shallow waters, where the sharks search for their next meal. Swimmers should also stay close to shore, where first responders can reach them if necessary.

Members of the public can report shark sightings and check for nearby sightings in the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy's Sharktivity app. The app provides information and push notifications about shark activity.

As part of a partnership between the New England Aquarium and the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, Chisholm verifies shark sighting reports and identifies verified sightings to be posted on Sharktivity.

"One of the Aquarium's core values is to balance ocean use with preservation, and a big part of that is finding ways to minimize conflict between humans and wildlife," said Nick Whitney, senior scientist and chair of the Anderson Cabot Center's Fisheries Science and Emerging Technologies program. "This partnership with the Conservancy has been a great way for us to lend our expertise to their efforts to increase public awareness and safety around sharks, and we look forward to another year of assisting in those efforts."

Along with great white sharks, more than 15 shark species can be found in New England waters at various times of the year. Scientists at the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life monitor them using satellite, acoustic, accelerometer, and camera tags.

-With reporting from TMX.
Three United States troops were hurt in an aid operation on Thursday at the Gaza Pier, with one requiring medical evacuation to Israel.

This marks the first time US service members have been injured in the operation to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians from a pier off the coast of Gaza.

The three service members sustained noncombat-related incidents at sea, said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command.

"Three injuries-two were very minor injuries-and those individuals returned to duty. One individual is undergoing care at a local Israeli hospital," Cooper disclosed during a Thursday press call.

Cooper added that the two with minor injuries suffered a sprained ankle and a back injury, and both had returned to duty, according to The Hill.

Earlier this month, the U.S. military completed a pier off the coast of Gaza as part of a maritime corridor to provide aid to the besieged territory.

The corridor begins in Cyprus, where international humanitarian groups and donor countries send aid to a U.S.-built floating dock located 2 miles off the Gaza coast.

In its first week of operation, the pier facilitated the delivery of over 1.2 million pounds of aid to Palestinians, said US officials;

However, they emphasized that the maritime corridor, while essential, does not fully meet Gaza's "staggering needs" and cannot replace land crossings.

The pier has faced several complications, including delays in securing it to the coast due to bad weather, and at least one truck has been looted.

A Hamas drone attack miles away from the pier also caused a halt in aid convoy movements.
New upscale hotel offers 485 elegant guest rooms, varied pools, exclusive dining experiences, and extensive conference and meeting facilities.

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced the debut of DoubleTree by Hilton Malta, marking the brand's inaugural presence on the island. Located on the picturesque St. Paul's Bay in the Mediterranean, the 485-room beachfront hotel offers elegant guest rooms, exclusive dining experiences, multiple swimming pools and premier business meeting spaces. The property joins DoubleTree by Hilton's fast-growing portfolio of 684 hotels worldwide.

DoubleTree by Hilton Malta is perfectly situated for guests to explore Malta's rich history and natural beauty, providing easy access to the ancient city of Mdina, vibrant Valletta and the UNESCO-listed Megalithic Temples. At the heart of DoubleTree by Hilton Malta lies a connection to the island's distant past, with the Bugibba Ancient Temple on the hotel grounds offering guests a unique glimpse into Malta's Neolithic era.

Situated in the seaside resort of Qawra, DoubleTree by Hilton Malta features elegantly appointed guest rooms designed to reflect the Mediterranean's warmth and vitality. Many rooms offer impressive views of St Paul's Bay and private balconies. Room types include superior, deluxe and family-sized, some with a pull-out sofa bed. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen HDTV, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi.

The Azure Restaurant and Terrace offers unparalleled international cuisine with the freshest buffet offerings for the most discerning palate. Carvv Grill and Enoteca provides a unique dining experience in a bold and contemporary ambiance, serving an array of fresh local and international meats, vegetarian and vegan-friendly options and a comprehensive wine selection.

For guests seeking a relaxed atmosphere, Juniper Lounge Bar offers a versatile space for early morning coffees and light snacks, transforming into a hip bar in the evening serving cocktails. The Limonata swim-up pool bar draws inspiration from all things Mediterranean, with a nod to the idyllic Greek islands, Sicilian terracotta tiles and vibrant Amalfi lemons. Meanwhile, Ombre Cafe Bistro provides the perfect setting for guests to unwind and savour the best in delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

The main pool area provides an oasis of relaxation, featuring two seasonal outdoor pools including a sundeck area overlooking St. Paul's Bay. The heated pool is a year-round option for those who opt for a swim even during the winter season. The hotel's extensive leisure facilities also include a private beach club (opening 2025) that features breathtaking views of St. Paul's islands along with two infinity pools and direct beach access.

At the Myoka Spa (opening June 2024), guests can indulge in a variety of exotic and invigorating body treatments together with holistic experiences that will leave them energised and refreshed. The spa also features another indoor pool with jet seats, sauna, hot tub and a relaxation area.

DoubleTree by Hilton Malta serves as a premier destination for meetings and events for up to 800 guests, with more than 2,000 square meters of meeting space, including a 971 square meter ballroom for larger events and weddings. The versatile range of spaces also features 16 meeting rooms and an auditorium, all equipped with the latest in audio-visual technology.

The hotel is conveniently located just 35 minutes by car from Malta International Airport and within walking distance of a bus terminal, offering easy access to all major attractions.

DoubleTree by Hilton Malta is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton's 23 world-class hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check in, choose their room and access their room using a Digital Key.

Hotel website
Start your holiday before you fly at Accor's stylish new opening.

ibis Styles, Accor's design-led economy hotel brand, today announces the opening of the 182-room ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport. Following an extensive renovation, the hotel offers a trendy design inspired by the wanderlust of travel and exploration.

ibis Styles hotels are renowned for interwining affordability with an unapologetically fun and design-led spirit. While each of the brand's 670 hotels around the world boast their own unique design, theme and creativity, each address promises flexibility, friendly service and comfort, igniting curiousity amongst travellers.

ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport is located just minutes away from the United Kingdom's second largest airport, with public transport available 24 hours a day between the hotel and the terminals. The hotel also boasts convenient access to nearby rail and bus links, as well as major conference facilities and venues in the local area.

Travel is more than just reaching a destination; it is about embracing the journey. From the moment guests arrive at ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport they will encounter a curated selection of maps, artwork, and directions to inspire exploration of the world.

The hotel's lobby features design and artwork dedicated to the wonders of travel, while the art deco-inspired reception and bar pay homage to New York and Miami. A vintage Fiat Cinquecento forms part of the restaurant area, offering some Instagram inspiration ahead of any journey.

Guests can choose from a wide range of accommodation options including double, twin, family, ambulant or accessible rooms, which feature triple glazing, air conditioning and power showers to ensure a comfortable stay for all travellers. Decor in dark shades of green and black provide a soothing background, while the bright and inviting ensuite bathrooms house a walk-in shower. Additional amenities include complimentary WiFi access to stay connected and a smart TV to cast shows.

To provide maximum flexibility, the hotel features live airport departure and arrival screens alongside 24-hour dining options, with a menu of classic favourites from stone-baked pizzas to a perfectly seared steak or a hearty pie. The restaurant area hosts an excellent breakfast buffet, brimming with a wide array of hot and continental options. Continental breakfast is served daily from 4 a.m. for those on the 'red eye' and the full menu starts from 6.30 a.m. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the hotel's fitness area with professional cardio equipment and a range of strength training options.

The hotel is on the Gatwick Airport shuttle network, meaning that alongside 24/7 public transport options, guests can also get the shuttle from the hotel to the airport, making the journey one step easier.

ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport also offers the Park and Fly Service - in which the guest can leave their car at the hotel, and it will be waiting at the airport for them when they land after their holiday, reducing airport parking costs and offering peace of mind.

This year, ibis celebrates its 50th anniversary. The ibis family has democratised travel since 1974 and today is the leading global economy hotel brand with more than 2,500 locations in 79 countries across the three brands: ibis, ibis Styles and ibis budget.

Guests staying at ibis Styles benefit from the group's global loyalty program, ALL - Accor Live Limitless, which provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport joins a collection 23 ibis Styles hotels in the UK.

About the area

London Gatwick officially opened as a commercial airport in 1958. It is the UK's second largest airport and is a vital piece of national infrastructure that helps drive both the regional and national economy. The airport is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In 2023 over 40 million passengers travelled through the airport, with access to over 150 short-haul and more than 45 long-haul destinations, served by more than 40 airlines.

Hotel website
Global hotel owner and operator Minor Hotels is announcing the signing of an agreement to manage a new-build resort and branded residences on the Indonesian island of Bali. Opening in 2027, the Anantara Dragon Seseh Bali Resort will be the first luxury beachfront resort on Seseh Beach and the third Anantara Hotels & Resorts property in Bali.

The Anantara Dragon Seseh Bali Resort is located on the black volcanic shores of Seseh Beach, a short drive from southern coast hotspots Canggu and Seminyak and an hour from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). The property's striking architecture, a creation of renowned British architect John Dawes, draws inspiration from the mystical Barong of Bali, a dragon-like guardian, lending the complex a sense of strength and grace with a touch of fantasy. The 216 keys, a mix of lead-in rooms and suites ranging from 52sqm to 120sqm, offer a serene sanctuary by the ocean. The Cocoon Residences blend nature and modern elegance, providing harmony between the interior and exterior and stunning views of the sunrise and sunset over the Indian Ocean.

The Anantara Dragon Seseh Bali Resort is developed and owned by the Taryan Group, a leading real estate and development company focused on progressive, innovative and ambitious development projects founded by Artur Mkhitaryan. The Anantara Dragon Seseh Bali Residences will be available for purchase through Taryan Group, with Anantara providing overall resort management.

In addition to enjoying world-class surfing on Seseh Beach, guests will revel in restorative stays at the peaceful hideaway along the Indian Ocean. Guests can rejuvenate themselves at the Anantara Spa, find their inner peace in dedicated yoga and meditation studios, level up their workout at the top-of-the-line fitness centre, how to ride the waves from the on-site surf school or relax at the beach lounge or one of three swimming pools. The property will include three dining outlets: an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty Japanese restaurant and a poolside bar.

Minor Hotels currently operates two properties on Indonesia's most-visited island: the Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort, a 73-key resort on the southern tip of Bali, and Avani Seminyak Bali Resort, an upscale lifestyle resort of 37 suites and pool villas. The hotel group is expanding its footprint in Bali this year with the addition of the Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, opening in September. Nestled amid tropical jungle and verdant rice fields, Anantara Ubud Bali Resort brings Anantara's authentic luxury to the island's interior with 66 suites and pool villas and 15 Anantara-branded residences.

Hotel website
Axel Najera, a seasoned marketing professional with a career spanning over two decades, hails from Mexico City. He holds a master's degree in media planning and has honed his skills across various sectors, including a blend of advertising and hospitality well suited to this role. Axel's career journey includes notable tenures at prestigious advertising agencies such as Leo Burnett, Grey Mexico and BBDO. He also boasts extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, having led Marketing and Public Relations at MSD Mexico for 12 years. In addition to his corporate roles, Axel successfully ran his own marketing agency for six years, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic acumen. His passion for the hotel industry was ignited during his four remarkable years with Fairmont, further enriched by his experience at a hotel in Anguilla and a Mexican luxury hospitality brand. Now, Axel returns to Fairmont Mayakoba, bringing with him a renewed commitment to excellence in his new role at the property.
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa is thrilled to welcome Hector Ortiz as the newly appointed General Manager. With nearly 25 years of knowledge and expertise with the Hyatt brand, Ortiz will oversee operations, ensuring a continued commitment to the unparalleled experience at the hidden waterfront oasis in Key West, which is also home to the celebrity-helmed restaurant, Four Flamingos: A Richard Blais Key West Kitchen.

The Puerto Rican native has worked at a wide array of the brand's properties including Hyatt Dorado Beach & Resort in his home country and Hyatt Regency Bonaventure in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Ortiz's additional experience throughout the Sunshine State brought him to locations in Tampa Bay, Orlando and Miami with multiple stints as Director of Operations. At Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa, he will oversee the property team, ensuring seamless performance and attention to detail.
The TradeWinds Island Resorts - the Island Grand Resort and RumFish Beach Resort - located along 40 acres of sugary white beach on the island of St. Pete Beach, Florida, has announced Avi Yesawich as Managing Director. In this position, Yesawich oversees all aspects of the TradeWinds operations, including strategic vision and direction, sales, marketing, finance, revenue, human resources, and all hotel food and beverage operations. The leader of the resort's executive team, Yesawich will play a key role in upcoming capital improvements at TradeWinds, including a $500 million, 20-year expansion project recently approved by the City of St. Pete Beach.

Yesawich has extensive experience with Highgate Hotels, which manages TradeWinds Island Resorts. He was most recently Area Managing Director for Highgate's Luxury & Lifestyle hotel division in Miami, where he oversaw operations for three diverse properties, totaling more than 1,000 rooms. Yesawich also spent several years working in New York City's fast-paced hospitality industry at a variety of large, complex branded and independent hotels with the firm, serving in key leadership positions. He also spent time with IHG Hotels as Resident Manager of the InterContinental David Tel Aviv in Israel, significantly elevating all the properties' key financial and operational metrics during his time there.

Yesawich has a bachelor's degree in Hotel Administration from Cornell University, as well as a master's degree from Tel Aviv University in Conflict Resolution, Mediation and Negotiation. A mixed native of Florida, New York, and Israel, Yesawich resides in St. Petersburg with his family.
ITB China is the leading B2B-Exclusive trade show focused on the Chinese Travel Market. At ITB China in Shanghai, we bring together top and hand-selected buyers from Greater China with industry professionals from all over the world. We provide various networking events and a unique state-of-the-art matchmaking system to enhance networking and maximize business opportunities at our travel expo. Coinciding with our travel fair, the ITB China conference will take place enabling unprecedented knowledge transfer throughout the tourism exhibition.

EXHIBITING

Meet with high diversity of buyers coming from leading travel companies throughout China, and attendees seeking for business opportunities in China.

BUYING

Take part in the ITB China Buyers Circle. New opportunities and innovation arise with a unique exhibition which brings together many regions with limitless potential and possibilities.

VISITING

Don't miss this new and innovative event. Connect with the best industry experts in one place. It is all there at ITB China.
Published on International Day of Biodiversity, the report "The Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies", explores the intricate relationship between the tourism sector and biodiversity, which encompasses the diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. It assesses how 80 national tourism policies incorporate biodiversity values and aims to deepen the understanding of the references to biodiversity within these policies.

The report comprises four detailed subsections that examine the integration of biodiversity within policy narratives, policy statements, strategic programs, and commitments to monitoring. By providing insights into the breadth and depth of current integration efforts, it serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and the global community, urging further action towards a sustainable future.

As custodians of the Earth's natural resources, it is crucial that we foster a harmonious relationship between tourism and the environment. This publication not only highlights the interdependence of biodiversity and tourism but also underscores the essential role of well-integrated policies play in ensuring a sustainable future for everyone. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili

Tourism answering nature's call to action

"Be part of the Plan" is the theme of International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) 2024, serving as a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity. This involves supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan.

This new report comes as a part of the commitments set out at the UN Biodiversity Conference COP-15, held in Montreal in December 2022, where the historic Biodiversity Plan was adopted Furthermore, the report complements the recently launched publication "Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action" amplifying the momentum towards environmentally responsible practices within the tourism sector.

Related links

About UN Tourism

The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism.

As the leading international organization in the field of tourism, UN Tourism promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability and offers leadership and support to the sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide.

Our Priorities

Mainstreaming tourism in the global agenda: Advocating the value of tourism as a driver of socio-economic growth and development, its inclusion as a priority in national and international policies and the need to create a level playing field for the sector to develop and prosper.

Promoting sustainable tourism development: Supporting sustainable tourism policies and practices: policies which make optimal use of environmental resources, respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities and provide socio-economic benefits for all.

Fostering knowledge, education and capacity building: Supporting countries to assess and address their needs in education and training, as well as providing networks for knowledge creation and exchange.

Improving tourism competitiveness: Improving UN Tourism Members' competitiveness through knowledge creation and exchange, human resources development and the promotion of excellence in areas such as policy planning, statistics and market trends, sustainable tourism development, marketing and promotion, product development and risk and crisis management.

Advancing tourism's contribution to poverty reduction and development: Maximizing the contribution of tourism to poverty reduction and achieving the SDGs by making tourism work as a tool for development and promoting the inclusion of tourism in the development agenda.

Building partnerships: Engaging with the private sector, regional and local tourism organizations, academia and research institutions, civil society and the UN system to build a more sustainable, responsible and competitive tourism sector.

Our Structure

Members: An intergovernmental organization, UN Tourism has 160 Member States, 6 Associate Members, 2 Observers and over 500 Affiliate Members.

Organs: The General Assembly is the supreme organ of the Organization. The Executive Council take all measures, in consultation with the Secretary-General, for the implementation of the decisions and recommendations of the General Assembly and reports to the Assembly.

Secretariat: UN Tourism headquarters are based in Madrid, Spain. The Secretariat is led by the Secretary-General and organized into departments covering issues such as sustainability, education, tourism trends and marketing, sustainable development, statistics and the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA), destination management, ethics and risk and crisis management. The Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department carries out development projects in over 100 countries worldwide, while the Regional Departments for Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and the Middle East serve as the link between UN Tourism and its 160 Member States. The Affiliate Members Department represents UN Tourism's 500 plus Affiliate members.

UN Tourism Communications Department

+34 91 567 8100

UN Tourism
The School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is delighted to announce that its students are again recognised for their talent, creativity and dedication by winning remarkable awards.

Selina Lao, Heidi Tan, Kehan Wang and Guanyu Zhao, students in the SHTMs BSc in Tourism and Events Management programme, made their mark at the 2nd China University Student Tourism Management Virtual Simulation Competition held in Guangzhou, Mainland China, on 15-19 May 2024. Together with Dr Richard Qiu, SHTM Assistant Professor and supervisor of the student team, they won a total of four awards:

Second Prize on the Virtual Simulation Competition

Best Rural Revitalisation Project Proposal

Third Prize on the TikTok Clips Contest

Excellent Supervisor Award

The SHTM student team was among 225 teams participated in the final round of the competition.

With an aim to enhancing experimental teaching, improving teaching quality and fostering high-end talent with comprehensive and practical tourism management skills, the Competition encouraged students to apply their knowledge and engage in theoretical learning and practical exploration. Building upon the success of the previous competition, the 2nd China University Student Tourism Management Virtual Simulation Competition successfully facilitated exchange between faculty members and students from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and Mainland universities, establishing a brand of disciplinary competitions across the region.

As this vibrant and dynamic roster of student activities suggests, life at the SHTM is packed full of opportunities to excel beyond the walls of the classroom.

About PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management

For 45 years, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the "Hospitality and Tourism Management" category in ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023 for the seventh consecutive year; placed No. 1 globally in the "Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services" category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2022/2023 for six years in a row; rated No. 1 in the world in the "Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism" subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017; and ranked No. 1 in Asia in the "Hospitality and Leisure Management" subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism.

The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from 20 countries and regions around the world, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School's groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, and inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Website: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/shtm/.

Pauline Ngan

Senior Marketing Manager

+852 3400 2634

Hong Kong PolyU
Three Hills (the Firm) is delighted to announce a new partnership with leading luxury hospitality amenities supplier, La Bottega Group (La Bottega or the Company), which will see the Company receive c. 115 million of new funding through a combination of preferred capital and equity from the Firm. The investment plays to Three Hills existing expertise in the hospitality space, with investments including Sant Ambroeus and The Wilde.

As part of the new structure, Three Hills acquires a stake from The Equity Club, which invested in La Bottega in May 2019 on behalf of a number of Italian entrepreneurial families brought together by Mediobanca Private Banking. The Firm has also brought onboard one of the largest sovereign wealth funds globally, which is already an investor in the Three Hills platform, as a co-investor, and, thanks to their balance sheet and industry knowledge, will boast additional firepower to execute a very ambitious buy and build strategy in a highly fragmented sector. The investment is aimed at supporting the entrepreneur Tommaso Pacini and wider management team in executing their ambitious growth plans, which is centred on further international expansion through organic initiatives and M&A. It has also allowed Tommaso Pacini to consolidate a majority position in the Company with a less dilutive financing instrument thanks to the tailor-made financing approach of the Firm.

Founded in 1981, La Bottega has emerged as a premier supplier of amenities in the luxury hospitality market operating exclusive brands like Dyptique, Etro, Culti, Santa Maria Novella and many others within the hospitality space through licensing agreements. Headquartered outside Senigallia, Italy, La Bottega operates several well-established subsidiaries across key regions, including the US, APAC, and Europe. With a legacy spanning over four decades, La Bottega continues to set industry standards in providing exceptional amenities tailored to the discerning needs of upscale hotels worldwide. The Company boasts a portfolio of approximately 10,000 high-profile and diversified clients, including toptier establishments, such as Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Mandarin Oriental, and Peninsula.

The global high-end hospitality industry continues to flourish thanks to the sustained increase in the number of high-net-worth individuals (HNWI) worldwide. La Bottega is viewed as a strategic leader in this market and is well positioned to further consolidate the sizeable and fragmented market for Hotel Operating Supply & Equipment (OS&E). This segment is attractive in itself and expected to grow to a total size of c.22 billion by 2028. The Company has already completed successful acquisitions including Beltrami, a specialist in fabrics and bed, bath and table linens and, most recently in March 2024, Vanity Group, a leading global provider of hotel amenities in the mid- to upper-scale segment that will strengthen the competitive position of La Bottega in regions like Southeast Asia and Australia.

By staying abreast of the latest travel trends, La Bottega has adopted to the needs of the sophisticated and eco-conscious luxury consumer, who is increasingly focused on the adoption of green practices to improve their carbon footprint. Consequently, the Company has developed a full range of innovative alternative packaging solutions, which in 2023 alone resulted in a 45% reduction in plastic use across its partner hotels, leading to a saving of 690 tons of carbon dioxide, 104k tons of water, and 1.1k tons of petroleum. This level of innovation has helped La Bottega maintain its solid and sustainable growth trajectory, having generated 125.6 million of revenues in FY 2023, at an impressive CAGR of c. +10% since FY 2019.

Three Hills has always focused on Italian entrepreneurs capable of building unique businesses globally and who are looking for an international platform like ours to continue to grow. Tommaso and his team represent exactly this, and we are very happy to begin this journey together in a sector that is undergoing consolidation, while providing the tools and financial resources to enable the company to continue the ambitious growth of recent years both in its core business and through acquisitions. As an environmentally conscious company, La Bottega also aligns strongly with Three Hills' sustainability principles and together with our in-house Value Creation team, we are keen to drive the Companys full impact potential in the years to come. Mauro Moretti, Founder and CEO at Three Hills, regarding the investment.

A sincere thank you to Roberto Ferraresi and Gianmarco Gandolfi, who have accompanied me through these very important years for the Company. I am proud that Three Hills has recognised that La Bottega is a high-quality business with significant growth potential, and this investment represents an exciting and progressive step for the Company. Three Hills has consistently demonstrated its innovative thinking and deep sector knowledge throughout. These attributes convinced us that they were the right partner for us. Through this next phase, we will continue to seek new M&A opportunities, improve existing operations, and drive customer-focused innovation in line with what La Bottega has historically delivered. Tommaso Pacini of La Bottega

About Three Hills

Three Hills is a multi-strategy asset manager that pioneered preferred capital solutions in the European middle market over 10 years ago. With a focus on high-growth and entrepreneur-led businesses, Three Hills offers flexible financing solutions and value-added expertise in order to support companies achieve their transformational growth ambitions, whilst allowing entrepreneurs to retain control of their companies. Three Hills has EUR 2.3 billion of assets under management, with backing from Europes leading industrial holding groups, family offices and entrepreneurs, as well as global institutional investors. With offices in London, Milan, New York and Luxembourg, Three Hills operates with a growing team of around 65 professionals. The firm is also a certified B Corporation, emphasising its commitment to sustainability and impact.

About La Bottega

LA BOTTEGA, a leading provider of luxury hotel toiletries and amenities for the hospitality market, boasts over 40 years of expertise in the industry. With a global presence, we operate through our 10 regional head offices strategically located in key cities worldwide: New York, London, Barcelona, Paris, Trecastelli, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Tokyo. Servicing approximately 10,000 hotels across the globe, including top international chains such as: Four Seasons Hotels, Mandarin Oriental, The Peninsula Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, W Hotels, Rocco Forte Hotels, Aman Hotels, and the most iconic independent properties, such as: Passalacqua Hotel Moltrasio, The St. Regis Roma, Grand Hotel et de Milan, Faena Hotel Miami, The Plaza New York. LA BOTTEGA is renowned for its commitment to Italian philosophy and prestigious partnerships with internationally acclaimed perfumery, fashion, skin-care, and hair-care brands. Our esteemed collaborators include luxury names such as Etro, Roberto Cavalli, Santa Maria Novella, Diptyque, Susanne Kaufmann, Natura Bisse, Grown Alchemist, Culti, DS&Durga, and Malin+Goetz.
Accor, Valuable 500, Accessibility Research Association, and Colorful Earth announced the launch of the Disability Inclusion Self-Assessment Hotel Toolkit  a user-friendly, self-assessment guide that allows hotels, resorts, and other hospitality providers to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of their accessibility and inclusiveness practices. The Disability Inclusion Self-Assessment Hotel Toolkit was introduced at the 6th Technology Accessibility Development Conference (TADC) held by Accessibility Research Association at the Special Education College of Beijing Union University.

Hospitality is about people, and Accor is devoted to welcoming others, accepting and valuing differences, and fostering a culture of inclusion  which is why it was so important to us to participate in the launch of this Toolkit. Our aim is to not only support our own hotels, but to improve accessibility throughout the industry. With diversity, equity and inclusion so essential to our own success, we will do all we can to keep making the world a more inviting place for our guests and our employees. Gary Rosen, CEO, Accor Greater China

The Toolkit is designed to be shared across the hospitality industry to address the wide-ranging needs of this community and dovetails with Accors longstanding commitment and proactive approach to diversity, equality, and inclusion. With close to 700 hotels across Greater China, Accor will encourage its hotel teams to partake in the Toolkit assessment process to further their continuous efforts in driving openness and workplace equality, preventing discrimination, providing opportunities that empower all people, and promoting hospitalitys role as a social elevator.

True inclusion is not just a policy, a facility or a program  it is a culture, an attitude, and Accor is leading the way, demonstrating its values through actions, while expressing sincere respect and understanding for everyone. With the Toolkit, we are encouraging hotels to take that first step of improving accessibility and enhancing disability inclusion by participating in a simple gap analysis to understand what features they may be missing and what improvements can be made. However, accessibility is not the goal or an end point  it is actually the starting point of how we shift our societal mindset toward achieving a more inclusive and sustainable society. Lets make progress together. Koko Tang, Founder of Colorful Earth

The Toolkit encompasses more than 250 indicators, providing hotels with a user-friendly interface for evaluating the inclusiveness of their governance, facilities and operations. Criteria include barrier-free infrastructure, accessibility aids, governance and policies, public awareness, capacity building, information accessibility, disclosure and reporting, and authentic representation of disability community in communications. The Toolkit also helps people better understand accessibility and inclusion, with definitions, examples, and best practices. It also explores the evolving perceptions of disability inclusion and self-identification, as well as challenges specific to the hospitality industry.

Created with consultation from experts and members of the disability community, Disability Inclusion Self-Assessment Hotel Toolkit aims to help hoteliers deepen their understanding of the challenges and barriers that travelers with disabilities can face, while emphasizing the importance of sharing information about a hotels accessibility. A survey of travelers conducted by Valuable 500 in 2022 revealed that more than three-quarters of respondents in the USA said they do extra planning to ensure a property will be accessible for them, while a third of disabled people in China said they research a destination to ensure their needs will be met before booking a trip. Other surveys have shown that 95% of visitors with special access requirements look for accessibility criteria before deciding to visit a place, and nine out of 10 simply wont visit unless they can confirm its suitability for their needs.

When a hotel, restaurant, or transport provider is inaccessible, a huge portion of potential guests are shut out. The potential can be rewarding to reach a broader market, by placing disabled staff and customers at the core of the service model. Hotels must consider disability inclusion in every aspect of the guest experience, and it is essential to reconsider the process and procedures that are in place and be open to change. Everyone should have the right to enjoy hospitality and travel, no matter their ability. Ryan Curtis-Johnson, Chief Communications Officer, The Valuable 500

As a hospitality leader, Accor aims to set an example for the industry. The company engages in multiple training efforts and actions to raise awareness that are essential for changing perceptions and mindsets around disabilities. The company strives to remove obstacles and stigma around identifying as disabled, respecting that 80% of disabilities are invisible. With a multi-faceted approach to addressing its own teams as well as guests and the broader public, Accor joined the Valuable 500 in 2021 to support the global vision of making inclusivity the norm. Examples of Accors initiatives include:

 Smart Room concepts  Guestroom accessibility improvements are being introduced, with customizable features such as height-adjustable beds, floor lighting, and showers with removable walls and adjustable jets.

 Guestroom accessibility improvements are being introduced, with customizable features such as height-adjustable beds, floor lighting, and showers with removable walls and adjustable jets. Signatory of the Global Business and Disability Network (GBDN) of the International Labor Organization (ILO)  Accor has adopted its 10 principles and actively fosters employment of people with disabilities. As the chairman unit of GBDN China Chapter, Accors Chinese recruitment official account has created a category for highlighting fully-accessible job listings.

 Accor has adopted its 10 principles and actively fosters employment of people with disabilities. As the chairman unit of GBDN China Chapter, Accors Chinese recruitment official account has created a category for highlighting fully-accessible job listings. Employment opportunities  In China, Accor offers graduates with disabilities six-month internships for valuable job training and opportunities for long-term employment. Novotel Shanghai Atlantis, for example, has welcomed 167 trainees.

 In China, Accor offers graduates with disabilities six-month internships for valuable job training and opportunities for long-term employment. Novotel Shanghai Atlantis, for example, has welcomed 167 trainees. Accor World DuoDays  Accor hotel teams pair up with people with disabilities, taking them along in their daily operational roles while gaining a better understanding of the frequent challenges disabilities present. In Greater China, this initiative is in partnership with beYoureyeS, a Chinese NGO, and participants are also granted a 100-day empowerment program with Accor Talent & Culture teams providing employment skills and career development support.

 Accor hotel teams pair up with people with disabilities, taking them along in their daily operational roles while gaining a better understanding of the frequent challenges disabilities present. In Greater China, this initiative is in partnership with beYoureyeS, a Chinese NGO, and participants are also granted a 100-day empowerment program with Accor Talent & Culture teams providing employment skills and career development support. Ongoing staff training  Accor Greater China continuously provides staff training modules on the needs of people with specific disabilities, in order to foster a mindset of accessibility and inclusion in its service culture. For example, staff receive training and instruction on communication etiquette and special considerations for people with visually impairment.

 Accor Greater China continuously provides staff training modules on the needs of people with specific disabilities, in order to foster a mindset of accessibility and inclusion in its service culture. For example, staff receive training and instruction on communication etiquette and special considerations for people with visually impairment. Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024  Accor is proud to be an official partner of this global platform for raising awareness and promoting inclusion of people with disabilities.

About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group

Accor is a world leading hospitality group offering experiences across more than 110 countries in 5,700 properties, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities or flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is committed to taking positive action in terms of business ethics & integrity, responsible tourism, sustainable development, community outreach, and diversity & inclusion. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
Search engine optimization is a critical part of any hotels digital marketing strategy. With nearly three out of four travel bookings now happening online, having a strong presence on Google can be one of the biggest factors that contributes to any given propertys success. Thats why Googles recent March 2024 Core Update deserves close attention from the hospitality industry.

The March 2024 Core Update is a significant shift in Googles search algorithms and policies. Its aimed at combating spam and low-quality content across the web. The rollout began at the start of the month, with websites given a two-month window to comply with the new site reputation-policy before potential penalties kick in.

So, what exactly does this update entail? And what steps should hotels take to ensure they stay on Googles good side?

Lets break it down:

The primary building blocks

The bulk of the update focuses on making a fundamental shift to how Google indexes and ranks content. Among these changes:

An enhanced ranking system: Google has refined its ranking systems to promote sites that provide an excellent user experience. Its set up to prioritize content written with people  not search engines  as the primary audience. User satisfaction is the new benchmark of content success.

Google has refined its ranking systems to promote sites that provide an excellent user experience. Its set up to prioritize content written with people  not search engines  as the primary audience. User satisfaction is the new benchmark of content success. New spam policies: Content that is deemed to be low-quality will face more targeted demotion from top search results under the updated policies. Google is drawing a firm line against pages created solely to game rankings.

Content that is deemed to be low-quality will face more targeted demotion from top search results under the updated policies. Google is drawing a firm line against pages created solely to game rankings. Abuse of scaled content: A key focus of the update is a cracking-down on the mass production of low-quality, unoriginal work produced through automation tools or other substandard sources. Google wants to limit content farms that prioritize quantity over quality.

A key focus of the update is a cracking-down on the mass production of low-quality, unoriginal work produced through automation tools or other substandard sources. Google wants to limit content farms that prioritize quantity over quality. Site reputation abuse: The update also aims to stop trusted, reputable sites from hosting spammy third-party content solely to capitalize on a given sites established track record of authority. Google views this as misleading to users.

The update also aims to stop trusted, reputable sites from hosting spammy third-party content solely to capitalize on a given sites established track record of authority. Google views this as misleading to users. Expired domain abuse: The practice of buying up expired domains to boost the search ranking of low-quality sites will be targeted as well. Domain history and trust signals matter.

Ultimately, it all adds up to Google working to combat worrying trends in online content in order to put everyones best digital foot forward  thereby attracting the most beneficial audience.

How hotels should respond

For years, Googles advice around core updates has remained consistent: Focus on creating high-quality, compelling content that truly serves your audiences needs. This latest rollout simply reinforces that stance, while also providing more concrete examples of what Google considers low-quality material.

With that in mind, hotels should respond to the March 2024 update by:

Writing compelling content: Create web pages, blogs, and other materials that satisfy user intent by offering what people are actually searching for. By being aware of and avoiding resorting to any of the spam tactics Google has called out, you can help ensure your site finds the appropriate audience.

Create web pages, blogs, and other materials that satisfy user intent by offering what people are actually searching for. By being aware of and avoiding resorting to any of the spam tactics Google has called out, you can help ensure your site finds the appropriate audience. Avoiding AI-generated content: AI has been making lots of headlines as of late for its seeming ability to be able to create content immediately, and out of thin air. However, its not exactly a magic wand. While the use of AI writing tools can be a valuable tool that helps generate material, Google is clearly cracking down on the abuse of AI for the purposes of gimmicking search rankings. It will be best to lean toward human-created content when possible.

AI has been making lots of headlines as of late for its seeming ability to be able to create content immediately, and out of thin air. However, its not exactly a magic wand. While the use of AI writing tools can be a valuable tool that helps generate material, Google is clearly cracking down on the abuse of AI for the purposes of gimmicking search rankings. It will be best to lean toward human-created content when possible. Exhibiting E-E-A-T: Every piece of content should strive to build a four-pillar foundation of quality. Those pillars are: E xpertise, E xperience, A uthoritativeness and T rustworthiness (abbreviated as E-E-A-T). If your site contains questionable third-party content, it would be advisable to edit it (or even remove it entirely) before May 5th in order to avoid potential manual action penalties, as these can be tough to bounce back from.

Every piece of content should strive to build a four-pillar foundation of quality. Those pillars are: xpertise, xperience, uthoritativeness and rustworthiness (abbreviated as E-E-A-T). If your site contains questionable third-party content, it would be advisable to edit it (or even remove it entirely) before May 5th in order to avoid potential manual action penalties, as these can be tough to bounce back from. Focusing on quality over quantity: More content doesnt automatically mean better rankings. It no longer works to simply overflow your site with keyword-heavy walls of copy. Instead, Google prioritizes the creation of high-quality, accurate content that provides real value and utility for your core audience.

More content doesnt automatically mean better rankings. It no longer works to simply overflow your site with keyword-heavy walls of copy. Instead, Google prioritizes the creation of high-quality, accurate content that provides real value and utility for your core audience. Following Googles best practices: Google provides ample documentation on building content and websites that align with their Search Essentials guidelines. You can learn more about those parameters at this link.

Ultimately, Googles March 2024 Core Update reinforces what the search engine has prioritized for years: a great online experience for users. By cleaning up spam and low-quality pages, Google aims to surface the most trustworthy, helpful, and relevant results for any given query.

For hotels specifically, that means redoubling the commitment to crafting quality content marketing that informs and engages travel shoppers. Generic filler posts and thin, irrelevant content repurposed across hundreds of sites simply wont cut it anymore. User value has to be the top priority now more than ever.

Need a hand making sense of it all? Cendyn can help!

If you need an advantage when it comes to auditing your hotels digital presence, updating your content strategy, or understanding hospitality SEO in the wake of this update, we strongly encourage you to reach out to Cendyn today. Our seasoned team of industry-savvy marketing experts can ensure your property stays ahead of the curve. We can also help you make the most of your hotels ad budget, customer engagement and marketing strategies  which is all a direct path to enhanced guest satisfaction and increased revenue.

About Cendyn

Cendyn is a global hospitality cloud-based technology company that enables hotels to drive revenue, maximize profitability, and create deeper connections with guests through its integrated solutions. Serving hoteliers for nearly 30 years, Cendyn drives commercial success for hotels through its Find, Book, Grow promise: find the right guests; drive them to book direct, and grow loyalty and revenue across the spectrum of digital guest interactions.

Cendyn has over 32,000 customers worldwide in more than 150 countries. The company supports its growing customer base from locations across the globe, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Bangkok, and India. To find out more, visit cendyn.com.

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Travel & Tourism Set to Contribute a Record $182BN to the Canadian Economy This Year

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is forecasting an historic year for Canadas Travel & Tourism sector this year, with the economic contribution set to reach an all-time high of almost $182BN.



Reaching $182.1BN in 2024 represents an additional $8.1BN over its previous peak, affirming the sectors significant role as an economic force, responsible for generating one in every 15 dollars of economic activity.



In partnership with Oxford Economics, WTTC's latest research highlights a sector abundant with opportunities, supporting 1.84MN Canadian jobs, with an increase of 120,000 jobs compared to the previous high point in 2019.



Spending by both international and domestic tourists is also expected to reach unprecedented levels, with forecasts indicating a total expenditure of $43.7BN and $95.2BN respectively, highlighting the robust demand and vibrant growth within the sector.



A look back on last year



Last year, the Travel & Tourism sectors GDP contribution grew by almost 25% year-on-year to reach almost $172BN, representing 6% of Canadas total economic output, demonstrating the sectors integral contribution to the national economy.



Additionally, the sector proved to be a significant source of employment, creating 85,000 new jobs, and elevating the total to 1.7MN nationwide. This solidifies Travel & Tourisms position as a major employment driver, representing one in every 12 jobs across the country.



The resurgence of international visitors to Canada has been notably strong, with international spending increasing by 42% to reach $41.3BN, highlighting Canadas appeal as a premier global destination.



Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: Travel & Tourism is set to break all records in Canada. The government backed Tourism Growth Program, with its $108MN in federal funding, will further boost both the economy and jobs over the coming year.



The Travel & Tourism sector is very strong and creating economic value and jobs. Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal stand out as popular destinations amongst international visitors.



What does the next decade look like?



The outlook for the next decade is exceptionally bright, according to WTTC forecasts. By 2034, the sector is expected to dramatically enhance Canadas economy, contributing an estimated $248BN and comprising 7.1% of the total economic landscape.



This burgeoning industry is also projected to be a major source of job creation, expected to provide employment for 2.3MN people nationwide. This indicates that 10% of the workforce will be engaged in the sector, highlighting the essential role of Travel & Tourism in fostering Canadian employment.



The forthcoming decade promises not just growth, but a transformative period for Travel & Tourism. Canada is on the threshold of an era characterised by prosperity, innovation, and connectivity on an unprecedented scale, marking a golden age for the sector that is eagerly anticipated by both consumers and businesses alike.



Visit the Economic Impact data at the WTTC Research Hub
Travel & Tourism in Germany is Trails European Neighbours

The World Travel & Tourism Councils (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed today a much slower recovery of Germanys Travel & Tourism sector compared to other key European destinations.



The data shows domestic tourism is propping up the sector in Germany, but international travel spend in Germany remains below pre-pandemic levels.



Unlike many of its neighbours, Germanys Travel & Tourism sector is yet to recover its GDP contribution, jobs lost during the pandemic, and international visitor spend.



According to the global tourism bodys latest research, the sectors contribution to Germanys GDP reached just over 453BN in 2023 - 13.5BN below 2019 levels.



Employment in Travel & Tourism grew by 5% to reach 6.18MN, but this was still almost 250,000 behind 2019.



International visitor spending remained more than 25% behind 2019 last year - 14BN less being spent by international visitors in 2019.



Domestic visitor spending however, did fully recover in 2023, exceeding the 2019 level by 2.9BN, evidence that domestic visitors have led the sectors path toward post-pandemic recovery.



Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said; "While Germany's Travel & Tourism sector has shown signs of resilience, there is a long way to go, and the recent increase of airline passenger taxes will undoubtedly hamper the recovery.



Domestic visitor spending has stayed strong. But taxes will only delay the recovery. The German government should sit down with Travel & Tourism businesses to plan how to stimulate the return of international visitors as it is an important driver of the economy.



What Does This Year Look Like?



Although the sectors overall GDP contribution is forecast to recover in 2024, both jobs and international visitor spending will remain below 2019 levels.



WTTC forecasts that Travel & Tourism will contribute almost 469BN to the Germany economy in 2024, an increase of 0.5% from 2019. Jobs are predicted to increase by 160,000 this year, however this will still be 80,000 below pre-pandemic highs.



International visitor spending is expected to remain almost 10% behind 2019 with a deficit of 5.1BN in 2024, compared to five years ago. However, domestic visitor spending is projected to continue growing modestly this year, with a 1.2% increase to reach almost 411BN.



What Does the Next Decade Look Like?



With the right government support, WTTC is forecasting that the sector could grow its annual GDP contribution to nearly 554BN by 2034, representing just over 12% of the German economy, and could potentially employ almost 6.5MN people across the country.



This is only possible if the government works with the private sector to ensure Germany remains an attractive destination for international visitors and provides viable long-term employment to German residents.



Across the European Union



The EUs Travel & Tourism sector grew by more than 8% in 2023 to reach 1.65TN, whilst jobs reached more than 23.5MN, just past the 2019 level. International spending grew 11.5% to hit 471.5BN  within touching distance of the pre-pandemic period. Domestic visitor spending grew almost 5% to reach 963BN, surpassing the pre-pandemic level.



WTTC is forecasting that Travel & Tourism across the region will continue to grow next year with GDP contribution set to reach almost 1.75TN. Jobs are forecast to exceed 24.5MN, international visitor spending is forecast to reach 517BN and domestic visitor spending is expected to pass 982BN.



Visit the Economic Impact data at the WTTC Research Hub
BCArc Promotes Residential Supervisor

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  Tracey Babcock, a seasoned Residential Site Manager for Brain Injury Services, and the current BCArc Employee of the Year 2024, has been promoted to Residential Supervisor.

In this new role, she will join a team of supervisors who each oversee a range of residential programs. Tracey has been with BCArc for more than 13 years, spending most of her time working in the Brain Injury Residential Programs, specifically with individuals requiring intensive personal and medical care.

"BCArc is lucky to have someone with this kind of compassion, combined with great management and leadership skills," said Maryann Hyatt, President & CEO. "I am confident that Tracey will be an excellent supervisor."

Tracey is known for advocating aggressively for the individuals in her program. In one example, she traveled to a nursing home in Boston to advocate for a former individual from her program.

"She has no family," Tracey said at the time. "No one is advocating for her at the nursing home. She is non-verbal and she deserves better treatment than she is getting. If I could go more often I would. This is family for all of us, this is what we all do for each other. I will continue to travel to Boston until I get her in a program that treats her properly."
Results of the vote on the flag article are displayed on a screen at Thursday's annual town meeting. The meeting in the Mount Greylock Regional School gym was attended by 295 registered voters. PreviousNext

Williamstown Town Meeting Passes Progress Pride Flag Bylaw Amendment



Mount Greylock sophomore Jack Uhas addresses town meeting on Thursday as Select Board member Randal Fippinger looks on. WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  By a ratio of nearly 2-to-1, town meeting Thursday passed a bylaw amendment to allow the Progress Pride flag to be flown on town flag poles.

The most heavily debated article of the 40 that were addressed by the meeting was decided on a vote of 175-90, amending a flag bylaw passed at last year's town meeting.

Mount Greylock Regional School sophomore Jack Uhas of the middle-high school's Gender Sexuality Alliance opened the discussion with a brief statement, telling the 295 voters who checked into the meeting that, "to many, the flag is a symbol that, in our town, they belong."

The speakers addressing the article fell roughly in line with the ultimate vote, with eight speaking in favor and four against passage.

Justin Adkins talked about his experience as, to his knowledge, the only out trans individual in the town of about 7,700 when he moved to Williamstown in 2007.

"Most people, when I moved here, had never met a trans person," Adkins said. "Today, that is not the case. Today, many people in this room are free to say who they are.

"LGBTQ-plus youth still face a world where their basic being is questioned and legislated.  Flying a flag is, really, the least we can do."

Adkins said there were many LGBTQ families and families with LGBTQ youth who moved to Williamstown or were thinking of moving to Williamstown because they think it is a welcoming community.

"They are watching us tonight," Adkins said.

At the opposing microphone, Luana Maroja argued that a bylaw amendment to allow the Progress Pride flag would open the door to a request to fly any number of "advocacy" flags on town property.

"I could reasonably propose we fly the 'Back the Blue' flag  no, I don't think that's a good idea, by the way," Maroja said. "But 'Free Palestine?' 'Black Lives Matter?' Atheist flags?

"We must keep in mind that ideological flags never have a single meaning."

Robert McCarthy told the meeting that in his 83 years in Williamstown he never had any issues with a lack of diversity. And he argued that the town flag poles should be reserved for "sacred" objects like the American flag.

"We don't need 37 flags flying from a flag pole or 87 flag poles in Williamstown," McCarthy said.

"You have the right  every single group in this town has the right to put up any flag you want. You can put it on your home, on your lawn, on your business. I encourage everyone who has an agenda to fly a flag. Let's keep the American flag, the POW/MIA flag alone, and if you want to fly your own flags, that's wonderful, but not on municipal poles."

Rabbi Rachel Barenblat spoke on behalf of members of her congregation, telling the meeting that, in fact, there are issues of diversity for vulnerable populations in town and the occasional flying of a Progress Pride flag would be one measure to address them.

"It's not a place where all of us can belong as fully as we want to, as fully as we should," Barenblat said. "Until we reach that day, I think there is value in flying the Progress Pride flag."

Most residents who attended the meeting  about 6.3 percent of the town's 4,7000 registered voters  agreed with Barenblat.

They also agreed, by more than a 2-to-1 margin, with the Planning Board, which earned passage of a zoning bylaw amendment that generated the second longest discussion of the evening.

The Cottage Housing Bylaw passed on a vote of 194-56, easily clearing the two-thirds margin needed to approve zoning bylaws.

Under the new law, clusters of four to 12 cottage-sized single-family homes will be allowed on a single residential lot in the General Residence district. The homes are limited to a footprint of 900 square feet and a total floor area of 1,575 square feet or 175 percent of the footprint, whichever is less.

"At a broad level, the purpose is to increase the supply of modestly priced housing in the General Residence district," Planning Board member Ken Kuttner told the meeting. "The dwellings are small, make more efficient use of scarce land, are intrinsically sustainable and promote a sense of community."

Kuttner explained that the bylaw, the result of a couple of years of discussion by the Planning Board, was modeled heavily on similar cottage court bylaws in other communities.

That opened the door to one of the bylaw amendment's critics.

"Cluster housing development may be desirable in Portland, Oregon  but it may not be desirable, or even welcome, here in Williamstown," Joyce Harsch said.

Paul Harsch argued that the small, densely developed homes would not achieve the affordability the Planning Board seeks.

"Housing will be built and sold to the highest bidder," Paul Harsch said. "I'm in the real estate business. I understand market forces. These houses will be built by developers looking to achieve the maximum return."

Paul Harsch also noted that the proposed bylaw amendment did not specify a time frame for building homes in a cottage court and argued that neighbors could be subjected to a nearby construction site for "12, 14, 16 years."

On the other hand, Bette Craig told the meeting that she recently had visited a successful cottage development in Arkansas and found it to be the kind of development the town should welcome.

"There was a community center, a laundry center, there were 12 individual houses, all slightly different, with porches, and the people seemed to be very happy to be living there," Craig said. "I think it would be a great thing to have in Williamstown."

Most of the articles on the warrant passed with either unanimous or overwhelming voice votes. Two articles that appeared on the warrant required no action from the meeting. The Conservation Commission, which submitted a warrant article regarding the Spruces Park, asked that the meeting take no action. A citizen's petition regarding a 1.2-acre town owned parcel had no one present to speak on its behalf.
BAC Announces Artists for Berkshire Artist Residency Program

STOCKBRIDGE, Mass.  Berkshire Art Center, formerly IS183 Art School, announced their five selected resident artists, Dai Ban, Grigori Fateyev, Stacy Scibelli, Kara Smith and Kyle Strack, for the Berkshire Artist Residency Program 2024.

The Red Lion Inn, in their seventh year hosting a resident artist, will be welcoming Kara Smith. Chesterwood, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, will be hosting three artists this year, Dai Ban, Grigori Fateyev and Kyle Strack. In their inaugural year hosting a resident artist, Ventfort Hall Gilded Age Mansion and Museum will be welcoming Stacy Scibelli.

Since 2012, Berkshire Art Center has coordinated Artist Residencies that pair local visual artists with cultural institutions and historic landmarks across the Berkshires. The heart of the Berkshire Artist Residency is to give local visual artists the opportunity to create new work inspired by their home county. The extended length and flexible hours of the program give artists, who might not have the luxury to attend residencies that pull them away from home for long periods of time, the ability to further their career and create work in a way that compliments their current practice.

The program gives visual artists exclusive access to world class cultural facilities and historic landmarks to develop new work that intertwines with the fabric of our county. The program is supported in part by grants from the Stockbridge Cultural Council and Lenox Cultural Council, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

The Summer 2024 program begins on Memorial Day, May 27, and runs through Labor Day, September 2. The selected artists will receive access to the buildings and grounds of their site and support for the development, creation, and exhibition of their work. During the summer, the artists are invited to teach classes through Berkshire Art Center and will deliver Artist Talks to share their experiences, inspiration, and process during their residency. Each residency closes with a reception and exhibition of the artists work.

The Artists:

Dai Ban is a visual artist who grew up in Tokyo Japan. He holds a BFA in sculpture from Musashino Art University in Tokyo, and has had numerous group and individual shows both in New York City, Hudson, New York, and the Berkshires. Ban came to Brooklyn, NY in the 80's to work as a model-maker in the TV, magazine, and film industry. After a stay in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts for a film project, Ban fell in love with the rural life and setting and has never looked back. Ban started working with his hands at a young age. He chose molding clay over toys; making drawings over reading books. In the third grade he saw his grandfather construct a beautiful bird cage from a single piece of bamboo, using just a few simple hand tools. Witnessing this, Ban realized that anything is possible. Accordingly, Ban hesitates to limit what kind of art he does. His practice has included jewelry, scenic designs, ceramics, figurative sculptures, abstract sculptures, video images, and photography. Since the summer of 2023, Ban has taken a new direction with his sculpture. Its previous straight lines and flat planes have given way to contoured forms that invite touch and personal engagement. He is excited to turn his hand to porcelain, and rigid, high-density foam, in a project of rediscovering curve and contour. https://daibanstudio.com/home

Grigori Fateyev, RA, was born in St. Petersburg, Russia, where he studied Theater Set Design at The State Institute of Theater, Music, and Cinematography. He graduated from Cooper Union School of Architecture in 1998 and is the principal and owner of Art Forms Architecture (AFORMSA). During the past 25 years, he has designed multiple residential, commercial, and municipal projects in the Berkshires, Hudson Valley, and New York City. He also serves as a curator at Turn Park Art Space in West Stockbridge, MA, and has lectured and exhibited his designs at UMass Amherst. Fateyevs work centers on developing contextual and contemporary architectural solutions for cultural institutions, museums, artist studios, private art collections, and performance art centers. As a part of his practice, Fateyev collaborates with artists on a variety of site-specific art installations, public sculptures, and exhibitions. https://www.aformsa.com/about

Stacy Scibelli is an artist and designer originally from New York. Currently Associate Professor of Fashion Design at MassArt, Stacy has served as faculty for several academic institutions, including Rutgers University, SUNY, and Parsons: The New School, and as a visiting artist at Olin College and RISD. She has worked extensively, advising students along their creative pathway, and has years of experience generating creativity and accessing the flow state. Stacys experience with curricular development and program coordination, as well as having the honor of participating as an Artist in Residence at Mass MOCA, Otis College of Art in Los Angeles, the Boston Center for the Arts, and Intercultural Odysseys in Costa Rica, has generated a vested interest in communal art making and residency programming. Additionally, as an original founding member of The Shirey in Brooklyn, Stacy has cultivated a passion for collective art spaces and the connections made through sharing the sacred space of intentional making and meaningful work. Stacy travels regularly with students internationally, facilitating service learning through institutions and companies such as Rustic Pathways, sharing her passion for exploration and learning through positive action and responsible education. http://stacyascibelli.com/

Kara Smith is an artist and art educator based in Western Massachusetts. Her paintings, prints and mixed-media work are driven by an interest in memory, visual storytelling and modes of communication, with a graphic sensibility and a love of found materials and relics. She received a MA in Art Education from Brooklyn College, and a BFA from the Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University. She has been awarded residencies at MASS MoCA, Kasini House/Kolaj Institute, The Vermont Studio Center, Brooklyn Art Space, and Drop, Forge and Tool. Kara is a Teaching Artist and Program Director at Community Access to the Arts (CATA) in Great Barrington, MA, which nurtures and celebrates the creativity of people with disabilities through the arts. https://www.kara-smith.com/

Kyle Strack is a ceramic artist and designer based out of Berkshire County, MA. Nature has always had an importance in both his life and his art. Growth and erosion, colors, forms, and patterns that are all found in the natural world are great influences in the work he makes. Working with his hands to directly inform, sculpt, build, and create his work gives him a physical connection to the natural material of clay and this world that it comes from. Through his work, he seeks to create an environment that welcomes viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty and peacefulness he feels when in nature. https://www.kylestrack.com/
MassDOT: South County Construction Operations

LEE, Mass.  The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing crews will be conducting daytime and overnight hour guardrail repair, drainage work, pavement marking, and bridge repair operations at various locations and times on I-90 eastbound and westbound during the week of Tuesday, May 28.

Lane closures will be in place during the construction operations and traffic will be able to travel through the work zones. The schedule for the work and lane closures will be as follows:

Otis/Blandford

Guardrail and drainage work will be conducted on I-90 eastbound and westbound between mile marker 21.0 to 26.2 from Tuesday, May 28, through Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning. The work is expected to conclude by 5:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31.

Otis

Bridge repair operations will be conducted nightly on I-90 eastbound and westbound at mile marker 22.5, from Tuesday, May 28, through Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning. The work is expected to conclude by 5:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31.

Stockbridge/West Stockbridge

Guardrail and bridge repair work will be conducted nightly on I-90 eastbound and westbound from mile marker 4.5 to 7.0, from Tuesday, May 28, through Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning. The work is expected to conclude by 5:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31.

Stockbridge

Bridge repair operations will be conducted daily on I-90 eastbound and westbound at mile marker 7.5, from Tuesday, May 28, through Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day.

West Stockbridge

Bridge repair operations will be conducted daily on I-90 eastbound and westbound at mile marker 0.6, from Tuesday, May 28, through Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day.

Bridge repair operations will be conducted nightly on I-90 eastbound from mile marker 2.0 to 3.0, on Tuesday, May 28, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning.

Bridge repair operations will be conducted on I-90 westbound from mile marker 2.0 to 3.0, on Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning.

Lee

Pavement marking operations will be conducted nightly on I-90 eastbound and westbound from mile marker 7.5 to 15.0, on Tuesday, May 28, through Thursday, May 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning. The work is expected to conclude by 5:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31.

Bridge repair operations will be conducted on I-90 westbound from mile marker 10.0 to 11.0, on Wednesday, May 29, from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. the next morning.

Appropriate signage, law enforcement details, and messaging will be in place to guide drivers through the work area.

Drivers traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution.

All scheduled work is weather dependent and subject to change without notice.
Museum on Chinese scientists to open to public

Xinhua) 13:27, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientists will officially open to the public on May 30 with inaugural exhibitions honoring prestigious Chinese veteran scientists.

The inaugural exhibitions -- one main exhibition and five themed exhibitions -- cover a total area of 5,000 square meters at the museum, which is located in the National Communication Center for Science and Technology in north Beijing. They are part of activities to celebrate China's 8th annual National Science and Technology Workers Day which falls on May 30, according to the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST).

The main exhibition showcases over 400 physical objects and over 400 rare images of more than 190 scientists, as well as more than 10 large exhibits provided by research institutions.

The National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientists is the world's first museum established for the scientific community in the name of a nation, according to CAST.

CAST has been collecting data on the academic growth of Chinese senior scientists since 2009.

Over the past 15 years, this project has collected materials on 674 Chinese scientists, including letters, manuscripts, scientific instruments, works, audio and video recordings, as well as related artifacts and documents, making it the largest collection of valuable historical materials of scientists in China and a main source of exhibitions of the National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientists, according to CAST.

Starting from the afternoon of May 30, the public can make reservations online to visit the exhibitions free of charge.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
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Masterpieces from Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon and Frank Auerbach will be displayed at Sothebys as part of their summer exhibition celebrating Britain as an artistic cultural melting pot.

The premier auction house has brought 12 UK museums together to stage the exhibition highlighting the nations central role in the lives of leading international artists.

The month-long exhibition, London: An Artistic Crossroads, will be free of charge and bring together an assemblage of remarkable works by artists who passed through or settled in the UK during their lifetime

In its own unique way, the UK has for centuries been a magnet for artists, thinkers and writers from around the world, attracted both by a broad spectrum of patronage - from royal to mercantile - and a tradition of open mindedness, Andre Zlattinger, UK Deputy Chairman of Sothebys said.

The exhibition at Sothebys will shine a light on this fascinating narrative, telling the tale of some of the artists who found inspiration, refuge, patronage and like-minded creative spirits in the UK.

Their time here has often been marked by moments of exceptional artistic flourishing that underpin the rich, multicultural and innovative art scene that is as much a characteristic of the UK today as it always has been.

open image in gallery Piet Mondrians iconic 1935 painting Composition C (No.III) with Red, Yellow, and Blue is on view at Sotheby ( Getty Images for Sotheby's )

open image in gallery Marcus Gheeraerts the Youngers portrait of Frances Howard, Duchesss of Richmond and Lennox, from c. 1621 ( Getty Images for Sotheby's )

The earliest of the works is a vivacious portrait by Flemish artist Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger, who became one of the most sought-after portraitists in England during the 16th century.

Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon and Dame Lucie Rie are included in the line up, with all three having come to Britain from across Europe.

Lucian Freud arrived in London from Germany with his family in 1933, aged just ten years old, to escape the rise of Nazism.

open image in gallery Freuds portrait of his friend John Minton is on display ( Getty Images for Sotheby's )

Painted in London in 1952, Freuds portrait of his friend John Minton - a teacher and an artist himself - will be displayed at the exhibition and is a significant work produced during a crucial period in the artists career.

For the most part, it was Freud who selected the sitter for his paintings, but in this case, it was Minton who commissioned the artist to paint his portrait, deeply impressed by a small-scale portrait of Francis Bacon, completed just a few months before.

Born in Dublin, Bacon left home in 1925 at the age of 16 and moved to London and will have one of his own paintings featured in the exhibition too.

open image in gallery Bacons Pope I (Study after Pope Innocent X by Diego Velazquez) from 1951 ( Getty Images for Sotheby's )

Bacons Pope I (Study after Pope Innocent X by Diego Velazquez) from 1951 takes the Spanish masters portrait of Pope Innocent X from 1650 as its inspiration.

Bacons worked on multiple versions of the painting for over 20 years resulting in a portrait that embodies the trauma and anguish of the post-war years.

A vase and a bowl from renowned potter Dame Lucy Rie will also be featured among the collection.

open image in gallery A vase and a bowl from renowned potter Dame Lucy Rie ( Getty Images for Sotheby's )

Rie was born and trained as a potter in Vienna, but fleeing the rise of Nazism moved to London in 1938. She was able to pursue her overriding ambition to return to making pots once the war ceased, creating in full force from her home-studio at Albion Mews in the centre of London

The UK holds arguably the greatest public collection of art in the world, Chief Executive of Art UK Andrew Ellis said.

[The exhibition] powerfully illustrates how the UKs rich cultural heritage draws on creators and influences emanating from well beyond our shores. All of us at Art UK greatly look forward to further collaborations with Sothebys that showcase the UKs national art collection.

London: An Artistic Crossroads will run from 25 May through to 5 July at Sothebys New Bond Street, and will be complemented by a rolling series of adjacent exhibitions and auctions, including material that further illuminates the central theme.
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Dave Chappelle has described the Israeli war against Hamas in Gaza as a genocide while also calling on Americans to do more to fight against antisemitism.

The acclaimed stand-up comedian, 50, was performing in the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Week on Thursday (23 May).

Abu Dhabi has maintained diplomatic relations with Israel even as it has increasingly criticized its conduct in the seven-month war.

During a wide-ranging set, Chappelle made reference to the war in Gaza before a woman in the audience screamed: Free Palestine! The crowd cheered in response.

It was then that Chappelle referred to the war as a genocide, before going on to argue that protecting Jewish people in America from antisemitic attacks would make them realize that they dont need to rely on Israel for protection.

His comments come a year and a half after Chappelle faced backlash for comments he made about Jewish people while hosting Saturday Night Live.

The Comedian opened his November 2022 appearance by talking about disgraced rapper Kanye West, who has made a number of anti-semitic statements in public.

He broke the showbusiness rules, Chappelle said. If theyre Black, then its a gang, if theyre Italian then its a mob, but if theyre Jewish then its a coincidence and you should never speak about it.

open image in gallery Chappelle was performing in the United Arab Emirates as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Week ( Netflix )

Ive been to Hollywood andno one get mad at meIm just telling you what I saw, he later added. Its a lot of Jews. Like a lot. But that doesnt mean anything, you know what I mean? Because there are a lot of Black people in Ferguson, Missouri, it doesnt mean we run the place. Chappelle then said that the delusion that Jews run show business is not a crazy thing to think, but its a crazy thing to say out loud.

Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt responded to the monologue at the time, saying it was not just normalising but popularising antisemitism.

Chappelle has become a polarising figure in recent years due to jokes that critics have described as transphobic.

Last month, comedian Jerrod Carmichael expressed regret over his prior public criticisms of Chappelle.

Appearing on The Breakfast Club show on iHeartRadio, Carmichael said: I deeply regret saying anything about Dave Chappelle to the press. I want to say that Im sorry for that because, one, Im a huge Dave Chappelle fan.

I think hes brilliant. I think hes a bright light in a dying industry. I think hes more important now than ever before because comedians are now just posting clips of them doing crowd work online and calling it art, and its not art. Dave Chappelle is an artist. Hes one of the few artists that we have. And I care deeply about the work that he makes.

Carmichael had raised the idea that Chappelle might be tarnishing his comedic legacy by fixating on jokes about the transgender community in an interview with GQ magazine in 2022.

Additional reporting by agencies
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A new psychological thriller has debuted at Cannes that looks destined for cult status.

Titled Gazer, the film was screened as part of the film festivals Directors Fortnight section, a strand that, since the late 1960s, has introduced the world to filmmakers ranging from Martin Scorsese and Chantal Akerman to Jim Jarmusch and Spike Lee.

Add Ryan J Sloan and his co-writer Ariella Mastroianni to that list. Their film, which the pair completely self-financed and shot in New Jersey for two years, follows Frankie (Mastroianni), a young mother with dyschronometria  a degenerative dysfunction that leaves her struggling to perceive how much time has elapsed.

Struggling financially, Frankie accepts a job that sees her embroiled in a dangerous case involving a missing woman, and she must use cassette tapes for guidance. The Hitchcockian plot, inspired by Oliver Sacks book The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat, has shades of Memento that will leave fans of Christopher Nolans salivating  but for Sloan and Mastroanni, the influences run deeper.

We were very honed in on Carol Reeds The Third Man, which is one of the greatest films ever made, Sloan told The Independent at Cannes. It rewards you on a second watch and we knew we wanted to make a film like that.

Sloan also cited Lee Chang-dongs Burning as a key inspiration  particularly when it came to the character of Frankie. It just cast all preconceived notions of what you had to do out the window, Sloan said of the 2017 film, while also citing Michelangelo Antonionis Blow-Up, Brian De Palmas remake Blow-Out and Francis Ford Coppolas spiritual reimagining The Conversation as reference points. In fact, while crafting Gazer, Sloan says they were very curious what that fourth film could be in todays day and age.

Gazer marks the feature debut for both Sloan and Mastroianni, who, somewhat impressively, made the film despite no formal training in screenwriting or filmmaking. Before starting work on the film in 2020, Sloan had been working as an electrician since the age of 13, with Mastroianni, a theatre-trained actor, working at US cinema chain Angelika Film Centre. It was the latter being put on furlough during Covid that saw the pair  a real-life couple  throw caution to the wind and decided to make Gazer a reality.

Making the film independently, free from the obstructive meddling of studio bosses, was a freeing experience, but a tumultuous one, too: the pair maxed out multiple credit cards and had their electricity shut off throughout the shoot. The cast  comprised of aspiring actors from Mastroiannis acting classes  were paid peanuts for their roles, with both Sloan and Mastroianni ensuring everyone was fed really well to compensate their faith.

We dont know what were going home to, Mastroianni said. We put everything that we have into this, which I think gives you perspective  to me, it makes you really mindful about how you use your budget on set, because it was our own investment.

Gazer is yet to pick up distribution, but the gripping film, admirably accomplished for a debut, surely has a bright future ahead. If theres any justice, the film  which is ready-made for cult status  will receive a worldwide release. However, with success comes increased temptation  and studios, thinking theyve stumbled upon the next Memento or Brick, will certainly be looking at Sloan and Mastroianni with dollar signs in their eyes. Is Sloan worried about being muzzled creatively?

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Were having a lot of those conversations now and were basically cutting off ties with anyone who isnt willing to come to the table the way we want them to, he says. Because at the end of the day, we did this without them, well do it again without them.
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Robert Downey Jr playfully roasted Chris Hemsworth as the Australian actor received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame today (23 May).

The pair co-starred in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Downey Jr, 59, playing Iron Man and Hemsworth, 40, as the Norse god Thor.

After taking to the podium on Hollywood Boulevard, Downey Jr opened his remarks by saying that hes eager to see Hemsworth in George Millers forthcoming Mad Max: Fury Road prequel Furiosa. This is going to be the film of 2024, he said. I can't wait. Im gonna see it three times.

He proceeded to compliment Hemsworth by calling him a remarkable human being with a contagious Aussie charm. He added: Chris is a bit daunting to describe. Hes very elusive because of the pretty packaging.

However upon further inspection, down under, he has a true blue wit, and he has a depth of soul, and it has been my sincere pleasure to know you over these many years. You keep us Hollywood folks on our toes because youre just a real dude.

Downey Jr then remarked: Now, here comes the roast! before explaining that hed reached out to fellow members of the Avengers cast to ask them to describe Hemsworth in just three words.

open image in gallery Robert Downey Jr and Chris Hemsworth during Hemsworths Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony on 23 May 2024 ( Kevin Winter/Getty Images )

He said Hawkeye actor Jeremy Renner had gone with: Absurdly annoyingly amazing while The Hulk star Mark Ruffalo came in strong with: Friend from work. The line is a reference to 2017s Thor: Ragnorok, which Downey Jr acknowledged with a smile: Oh that's a callback, now I get it.

He added that Scarlett Johansson, who plays Black Widow, called Hemsworth a sensitive leading lady while Captain America actor Chris Evans described him as: Second best Chris.

Following Downey Jrs remarks, Hemsworth gave a short speech thanking his family for their support before his star was unveiled.

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Earlier this month, Downey Jr revealed that he disagrees with Hemsworths public criticisms of his Thor character.

The Australian actor had admitted he felt like a security guard for the team, while others had cooler lines, and worried he had let fans down with his performance.

But Downey Jr argued that Thor in fact had the most complex psyche out of all of the superhero group.

First off, Thor as a character was super tricky to adapt  lots of implied limitations  but he and Ken Branagh figured out how to transcend, make him somehow relatable but godlike, he told Vanity Fair.

Hemsworth is, in my opinion, the most complex psyche out of all us Avengers. Hes got wit and gravitas, but also such restraint, fire, and gentleness.
MBABANE  A high school teacher has been charged for allegedly raping the mother of his childs 19-year-old niece.

The complainant, who is a pupil in the same school, it is alleged, used to come to the teachers house to warm her food. *Thulani (39) is based in one of the schools in the Shiselweni Region. He is accused of contravening Section 3 (1) of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 15/2018. According to the charge sheet, Thulani allegedly forced himself on the complainant, who is a pupil in his school. The offence was allegedly committed on November 23, 2023.

Thulani said on Sunday, while in his allocated house at the teachers quarters, he received a call from the police, who wanted him to come to the police station. He said when he arrived at the police station, he was informed that there were allegations that sometime in November 2023, he had unlawful sexual intercourse with the complainant. According to Thulani, he was charged based on those allegations.

The accused denied committing the offence and said he had good prospects of success during trial. The teacher appeared before High Court Judge Nkosinathi Maseko yesterday. He was represented by Melusi Simelane of Piliso Simelane and Partners. He is currently in custody at the Nhlangano Correctional Services. His bail application is being opposed and the hearing was postponed to May 31, 2024.




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Actor Glen Powell has explained why he turned down a role in a forthcoming Jurassic World movie that will be released next year.

The 35-year-old who has been promoting his new movie Hit Man, first shot to fame for his role as Hangman in Top Gun: Maverick in 2022.

He recently spoke about the financial pressures that came with the delay of the movie, admitting that the wait almost left him broke.

Now, the Anyone But You star has explained why he turned down the opportunity to be in the popular franchise, which is rumoured to star Bridgertons Jonathan Bailey and Avengers actor Scarlett Johansson.

Jurassic is one of my favorite movies. Its one of the things Ive wanted to do my whole life. Im not doing that movie because I read the script and I immediately was like, my presence in this movie doesnt help it, he told The Hollywood Reporter.

And the scripts great. The movies going to f*****g kill. Its not about that. Its about choosing where youre going to make an audience happy and where youre going to make yourself happy.

Fans praised the star for his intentional approach as they said, Good for him. More actors should turn down roles that they are not suitable for.

Another admired Powells career strategy as they said, Dude knows if he picks the right scripts and stays out of the slop he can be a huge star more than he is now.

open image in gallery Powell explained why he turned down the role despite his love for the movie ( Getty Images )

The Jurassic Park films, based on the bestselling novels by Michael Crichton, follow the chaos that ensues when formerly extinct dinosaurs are unleashed among humans.

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Over the last two decades, there have been six movies and various offshoots, including a theme park in Orlando, Florida. The original three films were released in 1993, 1997 and 2001.

Last month, Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey was rumoured to be cast in a lead role in the movie, shortly after reports that Scarlett Johansson is also negotiating a deal to be the face of the forthcoming reboot, which is expected to feature an entirely new cast.

The fillm will be directed by Godzilla filmmaker Gareth Edwards, with Steven Spielberg, who directed the original 1993 classic, on producing duties, according to Deadline.
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George Lucas has rejected criticism that the first six Star Wars films featured a lack of diversity, saying of the films critics: They would say, Its all white men. Most of the people are aliens!

He added: The idea is youre supposed to accept people for what they are, whether theyre big and furry or whether theyre green or whatever. The idea is all people are equal.

The Star Wars creator, 80, was speaking at a special event at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday (24 May) as he received the festivals honorary Palme dOr award.

As Variety reports, he went on to say that when discrimination does happen in the Star Wars universe, its against robots.

That was a way of saying, you know, people are always discriminating against something and sooner or later, thats whats going to happen, he told the packed audience. I mean, were already starting with AI, saying, Well, we cant trust those robots.

On the subject of race, Lucas added: In the first one, there were a few Tunisians who were dark, and in the second one I had Billy Williams, and the [prequels], which they were also criticizing, I had Sam Jackson. He wasnt a scoundrel like Lando. He was one of the top Jedi.

open image in gallery George Lucas onstage at the Cannes Film Festival on 24 May 2024 ( Getty Images )

As for issues of gender equality, Lucas pointed out that he has consistently depicted women in heroic roles. Who do you think the heroes are in these stories? What do you think Princess Leia was? he asked. Shes the head of the rebellion. Shes the one thats taking this young kid who doesnt know anything and this boisterous, I-know-everything guy who cant do anything and trying to save the rebellion with these clowns And its the same thing with Queen Amidala.

He added: You cant just put a woman in pants and expect her to be a hero. They can wear dresses, they can wear whatever they want. Its their brains and their ability to think and plan and be logistical. Thats what the hero is.

Earlier this year, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, who is set to become the first woman and the first person of colour to direct a Star Wars feature film, said its about time.

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Her Star Wars movie, which has been written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and is rumoured to be titled either Star Wars: A New Beginning or Star Wars: New Jedi Order, is set to begin filming this year.

Im very thrilled about the project because I feel what were about to create is something very special, Obaid-Chinoy told CNN.

Were in 2024 now, and its about time that we had a woman come forward to shape a story in a galaxy far, far away.
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Tom Hollands eagerly anticipated Shakespeare debut in Jamie Lloyds Romeo & Juliet production has received mixed reviews from critics following opening night at the Duke of Yorks theatre on Thursday (23 May).

The Spider-Man actor, 27, returned to the London stage for the first time since playing Billy Elliott on the West End in 2008. He stars in Lloyds production alongside Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet, with critics calling the stripped back Shakespeare show sad, muted and ruthlessly edited.

The Independents Tim Bano calls Holland a sad boy in a white vest and claims his acting skills are abundant in all the bits when hes not speaking. He explains Hollands line delivery is a bit flat and too sing-song while Amewudah-Rivers is mostly impassive and she acts best with her voice while Holland is best with his face.

Banos two star review lamented Lloyds austere aesthetic and the productions use of live video: As much as its meant to be a stripping back, soon those cameras, the constant murmuring, the grinding sounds, the need to be cool ALL THE TIME gets in the way of performances, he wrote. It imposes too much on them rather than liberating them.

The Guardians Arifa Akbar gave Lloyds Romeo & Juliet three stars and said Holland and Amewudah-Rivers had been perfectly cast. She praised their awkwardly cool teen energy and deliberately restrained chemistry.

However, she also took issue with Lloyds stripped back approach to Shakespeare, writing the directors style is puzzling in its distancing and the plays anti-dramatic effects are too stilted to let loose the plays passion.

When scenes are traditionally acted out, they are tremendous  immaculately performed and full of feeling, she writes. We ache for them to continue.

Tom Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers in Jamie Lloyds production of Romeo and Juliet ( Marc Brenner )

Meanwhile, The Times Clive Davis three star review similarly calls Lloyds Romeo & Juliet muted and too formulaic, adding the plays final scenes feel like eavesdropping on a conscientious but colourless radio drama.

Davis adds the shows throbbing sound effects and flashing lights provide abrupt punctuation to the Shakespeare text and the opening night audience left the theatre perplexedrather than gripped by Lloyds production.

The Telegraph are significantly more positive about Lloyds Romeo & Juliet, giving the ruthlessly edited production five stars. Dominic Cavendish claims the play ravishes viewers, although it may startle fans with its line of attack.

Cavendish praises Lloyd for slowing down the pace of the Shakespeare play, claiming the mics taped to Holland and Amewudah-Rivers faces place lyrical language centre-stage while the live video adds to the curious, meditative effect of the two hour show.

The BBCs Hugh Montgomery says in his review that, although Holland is not to blame, Lloyds production of Romeo & Juliet is lifeless. He instead pins the fault on the directors gimmicky, oppressively dour staging, adding the show manages to be at once overstated and underpowered with its modern twists and minimal set design.

Lloyd seems to also want to make Romeo and Juliet into some kind of nihilistic horror, he claims.

Read The Independents two-star review here.
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Look, we all know why were here. Its what Jamie Lloyd does: takes a classic play, strips away a load of stuff, and puts a massive star at the centre of it to sell all the tickets and sort of trick teenagers into watching Ibsen or Pinter or Shakespeare. Its the same deal here, with someone of supernova quality: Tom Holland  aka Spiderman himself  returning to the London stage for the first time since playing Billy Elliott in 2008.

Except, this time, early announcements about the feverishly anticipated production were overshadowed by an online campaign of abuse against Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, the young actor cast as Juliet. What an utter cesspit the world seems sometimes. The torrent from these brainless racists led to an open letter of solidarity signed by more than 800 Black creatives, and a statement from Lloyds company condemning the abuse. This all happened before the play had opened  before anyone had a chance to see what its actually like.

So. Whats it actually like?

This is less Jamie Lloyd does Shakespeare, more Jamie Lloyd does Jamie Lloyd; a Romeo & Juliet muttered through head mics, housed in a shell of industrial chic  or it was chic the first time Lloyd did it, but now it just looks like a fetish for ventilation ducts.

Its set in Verona, which we can tell because its in the second line of the play and because there are big letters on stage that say Verona. Thats the closest Lloyd comes to a prop, by the way. No potions or poisons or daggers here. No set either, or rather one of regular collaborator Soutra Gilmours non-sets, making the stage look like a stage. Theres really high-quality video and Jon Clarks amazing lighting provides the rest of the set, creating shapes and sculpture from light and shadow.

Theres the prologue, a bit of fighting performed as whispers into microphones, and on comes Holland, a camera following him from backstage. Hes tearful, morose, muttering. Hes a very sad boy in a tight white vest.

Its what Lloyd was doing in Sunset Boulevard with Nicole Scherzinger and in A Dolls House with Jessica Chastain, the toolkit deployed in full, and its just as interesting: it strips the play back to bare bones, especially with Nima Taleghanis super snappy adaptation which nips along at pace. The play seems fresh; theres a real intense focus on the words.

But its only when we get to the balcony scene (no balcony obviously) that it properly comes alive. Its pure intense passion. Holland and Amewudah-Rivers stand face to face, hips brushing, lips almost touching, and murmur their love to each other.

Hollands acting skills are abundant in all the bits when hes not speaking. Thats not a criticism, honestly: its just that his face is so full of detail  detail that cameras and close-ups can really capture  and his reactions to other characters so full and attentive. His line delivery is a bit flat, though  too much sing-song quality as he quietly trots out the pentameter.

open image in gallery Tom Holland (Romeo) and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers (Juliet) ( Marc Brenner )

Amewudah-Rivers is the opposite: her face remains mostly impassive, her cool insouciance a nice contrast to Hollands puppyish affection, and she fills her softly murmured lines with different textures. Essentially, he acts best with his face, she with her voice.

Amid the moody coolness theres a brilliant performance from Freema Agyeman as a sulky, cheeky nurse leching over Romeo and having a laugh with Juliet. But really there are no blow-away performances here, nothing for the ages. How can there be when the actors are so constricted by the production thats been built around them? As much as its meant to be a stripping back, soon those cameras, the constant murmuring, the grinding sounds, the need to be cool ALL THE TIME gets in the way of performances. It imposes too much on them rather than liberating them.

If it had ended at the interval, it would have been brilliant. Instead, it becomes a thing of diminishing returns. Second-half scenes are too effortful, some have no emotional impact. As for the ending, well, its a bit of a letdown. They die, but theatrically: earpieces out, eyes closed, sitting on the front of the stage like bouncers having a nap after a long shift at a warehouse rave.

Credit to Lloyd, nothing is ever boring, which cant be said for most Shakespeare productions. But this is Romeo & Juliet, and not boring isnt enough. We need more passion, more energy, to make us not want the lovers to die, and then to feel sad when they do. By the end it feels like nothing has changed. Everything has remained too muted and beholden to the concept. Love is a many-splendoured thing, not a mutter into a mic.

Duke of Yorks Theatre, until 3 August
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Former This Morning star Dr Ranj Singh has denied speculations that he has lost his medical licence with a statement to fans.

The GP and TV personality is known to many for offering medical advice as This Mornings resident doctor from 2016 to 2021.

After departing the programme, Dr Ranj claimed to have been managed out of ITV after raising concerns about the broadcasters work culture, and has since pursued other career options.

On Thursday (23 May), he shared a message on social media urging his fans to disregard any rumours about his current status as a doctor.

Please ignore the people on social media claiming Ive lost my medical licence, his statement begins, before noting that the rumour is completely untrue.

Dr Ranj explained: I intentionally put my Licence To Practise on hold earlier this year because Im taking a bit of time off clinical work to pursue other projects (as you might have seen!).

Earlier this month, Dr Ranj announced that he will soon make his stage debut as part of the touring cast of the jukebox musical &Juliet for performances across the country.

open image in gallery Dr Ranj Singh ( Getty Images )

He continued his statement: It just takes a couple of months for the process to complete.

Its perfectly normal for doctors to do this, and there is no other reason involved.

Concluding his message, Dr Ranj wrote: And Im still very much a GMC-registered doctor.

A representative of Dr Ranj declined to comment further when approached by The Independent.

Last week, the doctor appeared on Scott Mills Radio 2 programme to discuss the benefits of music, and how it has positively affected his life.

When you listen to music, it stimulates your vagus nerve, which is one of the biggest nerves in the body that helps calm your sympathetic nervous systems down, he explained.

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So it helps actively calm you.

Dr Ranj has also recently opened up about his career shift towards performing and acknowledged that it is vastly different to the skills people know him best for.

I know its a bit of a change from my usual work, but not many people will know how hard Ive been working behind the scenes to make this happen, Dr Ranj told Pink News on Monday (20 May).

Its an absolute dream come true.
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Wheel of Fortune contestant Tavaris Williams has gone viral after he incorrectly shouted out a very inappropriate guess to a puzzle.

It was only a few minutes into the Thursday (24 May) episode when Williams, who was up against against two other competitors, made the unfortunate slip-up.

As letters to the puzzle began to quickly appear on the board, the contestants were tasked with deciphering the phrase using only a few characters.

Williams proved to be overhasty when he rang in and promptly guessed: Right in the butt.

What? asked one of his fellow contestants in disbelief, followed by longtime host Pat Sajak, who responded: No.

Tavaris stood there with an oops expression on his face while the audience roared with laughter. Sajak swiftly moved on to call on contestant Blake, who correctly answered: This is the best.

Yeah, thats it! Sajak praised.

Later in the episode, when it came time for Sajak to introduce the contestants, he turned to Tavaris, saying: Well, Tavaris, youve already made an impression on us.

I apologize, Pat. I was a little excited, Tavaris replied.

Well figure out a way to handle that tastefully, Sajak said, prompting more laughter from the audience. He went on to joke: I have no idea what thatll be, but...

The clip of the moment has since made the rounds on X, formerly Twitter, with several viewers labeling the interaction as a Wheel of Fortune Hall of Fame moment.

All time #WheelOfFortune moment right here, one person wrote. A second declared: This could have been on South Park.

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Missed the mark, another person said, adding a laughing emoji alongside a broken heart. The official X account for American dictionary Merriam-Webster tweeted: Yes, we saw the Wheel of Fortune clip you can stop sending it to us.

Others noted that his NSFW guess would not have fit the letter boxes anyhow. Not even the correct number of letters, one noted.

Must be this kinda Rite, someone suggested, alongside a gif of the drugstore chain Rite Aid.

Wheel of Fortune has aired in the US since 1975. Originally hosted by Chuck Woolery, the show is now presented by Sajak took over hosting duties in 1981 and has presided over the popular game show ever since.

Last June, Sajak, 77, announced that he would be retiring from his long-time position after 40 years. Ive decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last, he said at the time.

His final episode airs on 7 June. He will, however, serve as a consultant for three years beyond his retirement, according to Deadline.

Former American Idol presenter Ryan Seacrest will be taking over from Sajak, with his first season premiering this fall.

Wheel of Fortune airs weekdays on ABC at 7:30pm.
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China deployed nearly 50 warplanes and 19 naval vessels around Taiwan on Friday, the second day of major military drills which it described as a test of its ability to seize power on the island.

Taiwans defence ministry said it tracked the Chinese aircraft and warships, as well as a large number of Chinese coastguard vessels, throughout their drills on Friday, at times bringing the two sides militaries into extremely close proximity amid spiralling tensions in the region.

Beijing has launched the drills to express its extreme disapproval over a change in Taiwanese leadership. The islands new president Lai Ching-te, who is seen as a less cautiously anti-Beijing figure than his predecessor, has urged China to accept the reality of the islands de facto independence and cease its threats of force.

Xi Jinping has instead done the opposite, launching its most expansive military drills yet as punishment for Mr Lais comments.

On Friday, the Chinese military declared the exercises (named Joint Sword-2024A) were designed to test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks and occupy key areas. Analysts say putting A in the name is an implicit threat from Beijing, suggesting there are more drills to come before the year is out.

Despite the openly aggressive nature of its war games, China claimed it was the Taiwanese leadership creating a perilous situation of war and danger, and that Beijing would go further if provoked.

Photos released by China showed Taiwan being surrounded by forces from the ruling Communist Partys military wing, the Peoples Liberation Army. An animated video released on Friday showed Chinese forces approaching from all sides, enclosing Taiwan within a circular target area.

A Chinese vessel, Nantong, carried out combat readiness patrols and practical drill missions in the Taiwan Strait, with Taiwanese ship Zheng He following just 0.6 nautical miles behind, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV said.

Taiwan has put its marine and coastguard vessels, air- and ground-based missile units on alert, especially around the Taiwan-controlled island chains of Kinmen and Matsu, which are located just off the Chinese coast and far from Taiwans main island, some 100 miles away across the Taiwan Strait.

The last drills of this scale came in the aftermath of 2022s visit to Taiwan by Nancy Pelosi, then the speaker of the US House of Representatives. Those involved a simulation of an economic blockade of the island, however, not an all-out invasion  and did not cover so wide an area including groups of Taiwan-controlled islands near the Chinese coast.

Alongside the military exercises, which on Friday included bombers flying off Chinas east coast in attack formations and mock bombings of pretend foreign vessels, Chinese coastguard boats have been accused of harassment drills, including mock inspections of civilian ships, according to a senior Taiwanese security official.

Chinas coastguard defended its actions and said it had conducted law enforcement drills in waters east of Taiwan on Friday, focused on training in verification and identification, warning and repulsion.

Speaking halfway through the Chinese military drills on Thursday, Mr Lai said: Facing external challenges and threats, we will continue to maintain the values of freedom and democracy. He was shown meeting sailors and top security officials on a visit to a marine base in Taoyuan.

The Xi Jinping administration has denounced Mr Lai as a separatist and calls the democratically governed island a renegade province, seeing it as its own territory despite Taiwan enjoying widespread international recognition of its self-sufficiency.

Washington, which has diplomatically and militarily backed Taiwans self-governance, is closely watching the rising tensions in the strait.

The US Navy 7th Fleet is paying attention to all of the activities in the Indo-Pacific, a public relations officer of the fleet said, adding that it takes very seriously its responsibility to deter aggression in the region.
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Tensions between China and Taiwan soared to new heights this week as Beijing deployed warplanes and naval vessels in a mock invasion of the island to demonstrate its anger and towards the new president in Taipei.

The Chinese military openly said its two-day war games are designed to test the [armed forces] ability jointly seize power... and occupy key areas around Taiwan and the island chains it controls.

Xi Jinping is flexing his military muscles in an effort to intimidate the new Taiwanese leader Lai Ching-te, who used his first speech after being inaugurated on Monday to urge China to accept the reality of the self-governed islands de facto independence. China views democratically-governed Taiwan as a breakaway province, while Mr Lai says only the Taiwanese people can decide their future.

The escalation of Chinas military activity around Taiwan is being watched with growing alarm from around the world, with neighbouring powers in the Asia-Pacific urging the two to maintain peace and stability.

Will China invade Taiwan?

According to US intelligence, Chinese president Xi Jinping has instructed his countrys military to be ready by 2027" to invade Taiwan. The 70-year-old autocrat has previously vowed to ensure Taiwan is reunited with the mainland during his time in power, and has also said the matter of the islands future cannot be passed on from generation to generation.

The CIA director William Burns has said the US must take Mr Xis desire to seize control of Taiwan very seriously, even if military conflict is not inevitable. We do know, as has been made public, that president Xi has instructed the PLA, the Chinese military leadership, to be ready by 2027 to invade Taiwan, but that doesnt mean that hes decided to invade in 2027 or any other year as well, Mr Burns said last year.

open image in gallery A member of Taiwans military (front) takes part in routine exercises at Liaoluo Port in Kinmen ( AFP via Getty Images )

Many analysts have drawn parallels between Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine and Mr Xis aspirations with Taiwan. For now, Mr Burns argued, Russias struggle to make meaningful headway in the war in Europe despite its numerical superiority may be acting as a deterrent to Beijing.

Could Taiwan defend itself?

Shortly after the CIA chiefs warnings, Taiwans foreign minister Joseph Wu had said that Taipei is taking the Chinese military threat very seriously. I think 2027 is the year that we need to be serious about, Joseph Wu said in an interview with LBC.

Taiwan increased its defence budget for 2024 to a record $19.1bn, and as well as importing weapons is proactively expanding its own arms industry, including building homegrown submarines and trainer aircraft. It is developing its third and fourth domestically designed and built stealth corvettes to counter the Chinese navy, part of a strategy of asymmetrical warfare in which a smaller force counters its larger opponent by using cutting edge or nonconventional tactics and weaponry.

open image in gallery Taiwanese armoured vehicles roll down a street in Kinmen ( AFP via Getty Images )

It is still dwarfed by China, which has the largest armed forces in the world by active duty military personnel, with over two million active soldiers and 510,000 in reserve. Taiwan, in comparison, has 169,000 active military personnel  but this is backed up by some 1.66 million civilian warriors, according to data from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). Earlier this year Taiwan reinstated mandatory military service of one year for all citizens, reversing the trend of the 2010s that had seen the service period steadily reduced to just a few months.

How would the US react if Taiwan was invaded?

In September 2022, Joe Biden explicitly offered US protection and said American forces would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. This came at the cost of angering China at a time when Sino-US relations are themselves at a low ebb, with Beijing saying it sent the wrong signal.

Washington, which has diplomatically and militarily backed Taiwans self-governance, is closely watching the rising tensions in the strait. The US Navy 7th Fleet is paying attention to all of the activities in the Indo-Pacific, a public relations officer of the fleet said, adding that it takes "very seriously" the responsibility to deter aggression in the region.

open image in gallery A Chinese newspaper front page shows news coverage of Chinas military drills around Taiwan, in Beijing ( AFP via Getty Images )

Senior US General Stephen Sklenka called for a de-escalation of tensions, saying an attack is not inevitable or imminent in spite of the standoff seen this week.

At stake would be untold numbers of lives, trillions of dollars in global economic damage, and maintenance of an international order that has delivered relative peace and stability over the past 80 years. And that is why we need to work together to prevent conflict, said lieutenant general Stephen Sklenka, Deputy Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command.
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Indian spice exporters are being investigated after tests revealed elevated levels of cancer-causing pesticides in their products, sparking concern among global food regulators.

The Spices Board, Indias main regulator for spice exports, said it has begun conducting inspections at processing and manufacturing plants belonging to MDH and Everest, two leading brands.

The investigation comes over a month after Hong Kong suspended the sale of three spice blends produced by MDH and one by Everest, saying they contained high levels of a carcinogenic pesticide named ethylene oxide.

Singapore ordered a recall of an Everest mix, while New Zealand, Australia and the United States said they are looking into complaints about the two brands.

Britains food watchdog has applied extra control measures to all spice imports from India, the Food Standards Agency said last Wednesday.

We have conducted three consultations with the industry, a senior Spices Board official was quoted as saying by the Mint newspaper, adding that the industry is taking a serious approach to the matter.

A report on Tuesday in the Financial Express said that initial testing by Indian officials found no evidence of ethylene oxide in MDH spices but that in the case of Everest, some of the samples (out of 12) were non-compliant.

We have told them to take corrective actions and we are working with them to ensure that they are compliant, the unnamed official said.

The two Indian companies have said their products are safe for consumption, with MDH denying it uses any ethylene oxide in its spice mixes. We reassure our buyers and consumers that we do not use ethylene oxide at any stage of storing, processing, or packing our spices, it said, according to NDTV. The Independent has contacted Everest for comment.

Ethylene oxide, which is generally used as a disinfectant, sterilising agent and insecticide to reduce microbial contamination, is considered carcinogenic beyond permissible limits.

This limit is not standardised around the world, however. Hong Kong completely prohibits the use of ethylene oxide in food, while the European Union limits its usage to 0.1mg per kg.

The US Environmental Protection Agency says regular exposure to ethylene oxide over many years raises the risk of cancers, including non-Hodgkins lymphoma, myeloma and lymphocytic leukaemia, and breast cancer.

Growing global scrutiny of Indian spices has caused concern about the risk posed to the countrys spice export industry, which according to the Spices Board was worth $4bn in 2022-23.

The Global Trade Research Initiative, a think tank in New Delhi, estimates that it is likely to impact more than half of all overseas orders.

About 14.5 per cent of MDH shipments to the US have been cancelled since 2021 due to the presence of salmonella bacteria, a Reuters analysis of US FDA data has found.

Additional reporting by agencies
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A member of parliament from Bangladesh who travelled to India for medical treatment has been found murdered.

Anwarul Azim Anar, a member of the ruling Awami League in Bangladesh, was reported missing by a friend a day after he travelled to Indias eastern state of West Bengal on 12 May.

Bangladeshs home minister Asaduzzaman Khan confirmed the MPs death and said that three arrests had been made, citing the Indian police.

The information we have so far is that the people of our country are involved in the killing, the minister said while speaking at a press briefing in Dhaka, according to the Indian state-sponsored DD News.

Mr Khan said: We have been working to arrest a few more people. This is a murder Nothing happened here that would lead to deterioration in relations with India since no Indian is involved with the incident. According to the information we have received so far, some people from our country are involved in this murder.

Anar represented the Jhenaidah constituency in Bangladesh.

According to India Today, which quoted anonymous sources in West Bengals Crime Investigation Department, Anars body was brutally dismembered before being disposed of across the city, but this has not been confirmed publicly by police officials.

The News18 channel reported that a suspect named Jihad Hawladar, a resident of Khulna district in Bangladesh who had illegally entered India and was staying in Mumbai, had been arrested.

Investigation indicated that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap laid by a woman who was also close to the victims friend, the Press Trust of India quoted an official as saying. It seems, Anar was lured into the New Town flat [in Kolkatta] by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat.

The late MPs family members are preparing to travel to Kolkata for further formalities, according to Livemint, and their visa process is currently underway.

The West Bengal government has received a letter from Indias ministry of external affairs urging the state government to investigate the murder.

open image in gallery Mystery deepens as Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar is found murdered and dismembered. Screengrab ( NDTV / YouTube )

A Special Investigation Team [SIT] has also reportedly been formed to investigate the case.

The MPs family friend, Gopal Viswas, filed a complaint at the Baranagar police station in Bidhannagar in West Bengal after the MPs daughter reported being unable to contact her father.

Akhilesh Kumar Chaturvedi, CID Inspector General was quoted as saying by ANI: We had no prior intimation of the Bangladeshi MPs arrival to this city. We came to know about him after his acquaintance in Kolkata, Gopal Biswas, filed a missing diary [report] on 18 May.

We were in the middle of that investigation when, on 20 May, we received an intimation from the Ministry of External Affairs and today an input that makes us suspect that the victim may have been murdered, he said.

The motive for the killing is still unknown.

Jhenaidah is a [India] bordering area known for its high crime rate. Azim [Anar] was the local lawmaker there. The incident took place after he went to India for treatment. According to what we currently know, he was killed there, the Bangladesh home minister said at his press briefing earlier.

We suspect that after killing Anar, the murderers mutilated the body, segregated the flesh from the bones and mixed those with turmeric powder to delay decomposition, a West Bengal CID officer was quoted as saying by FirstPost.

The body parts were probably put inside plastic bags and scattered at different locations. We also suspect that some parts were kept in a refrigerator and we have collected samples, the officer said, adding a wider search for more body parts was underway.

Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has accused the state government of hiding a can of worms and taken this opportunity to criticise a high-profile opposition figure, West Bengals chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

This isnt the first such brutal killing in West Bengal. Investigation into the murder will open a can of worms, involving powerful people in the WB [West Bengal] Govt, Amit Malviya, a senior BJP leader wrote on X, without providing evidence.
MOTSHANE  A community police member died after being brutally stabbed four times by one of 18 teenagers, who were suspected of stealing chickens in the area.

The incident happened on Wednesday night at a Hlophe homestead, which is the suspects home. Four unarmed community police members visited the Hlophe homestead to question the suspects after receiving a tip-off that they were behind the theft of the chickens.

They were confronted by a group of teenagers and in the process, one of them (community police) was killed. Narrating the unpleasant occurrence, Chairman of the Nduma Community Police, Lucky Dube, said a clash between himself and the suspect ensued after he was hit with a dagga plant branch by the latter.

Beating

Dube stated that the other three community police members joined in beating the suspect who ran into one of the houses and came out with a group of about 18 young men, who were armed with bush and hunting (Rambo) knives.

He said due to the fact that it was dark, they could no longer identify their own. However, Dube said he followed one of the suspects who had fled towards the main road, but received a call that the deceased Themba Mkhwanazi, had been badly injured.

He stated that he then decided to call the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) as the suspects were armed with dangerous weapons, yet they were only carrying a knobkerrie and sjamboks. Dube said the situation was tense, adding that he also retaliated with the knobkerrie, hitting one of the suspects. Meanwhile, he said the area had only six community police members and they were not enough to work in the community.

Suspects

Dube said they started attending to the matter on Tuesday after apprehending one of the suspects, who had committed a different offence. He revealed that the young men were behind the theft of chickens in the area. According to Dube, they did not take the statement lightly as reports of over 50 missing chickens were made by various homes, including that of Noah Nkambule, where all his chickens went missing from a shed.

Some chicks were allegedly found burnt in a plastic bag. He said the statement was made by the young man who had stolen money belonging to one community police member, Mthunzi Shongwe. Shongwe requested that we bring the young man so he could explain what happened to the money which was in his car, he said.

According to Dube, the deceased, Mkhwanazi, then searched for the young man and handed him over to Shongwe, who beat him up and he confessed to having stolen the money. He is said to have further revealed that they were also involved in the theft of chickens. He said the youngster identified the suspects he was working with, who were from various homesteads within the area.

He said all the suspects were below 20 years of age and not in school. They are said to be involved in dagga smoking and other criminal activities. After the identification, we visited the homes of the suspects individually and took them to a local playground, where we informed them that we have collected evidence of the chickens which have been stolen in the area, Dube said.

He said all the events unfolded on Tuesday at around 11pm, when they targeted the suspects, because during the day they were very scarce. Dube said they found all the suspects, adding that it was not the first time the chickens went missing as some of the suspects were caught with evidence. They were allegedly found with wings of the missing chickens. The chairman said the youngster who identified the group he was operating with was attacked by the others who accused him of exposing them.

On Wednesday, Dube said, the late Mkhwanazi then took the young man who was beaten to the others and asked why they were beating him as they had been warned against such. He said Mkhwanazi told them that he (Dube) wanted to see them and the suspect who allegedly stabbed Mkhwanazi said they would not go there. Dube added that Mkhwanazi then called, informing him that they would not heed that call, but he responded by telling him to leave them as they would pay them a visit late in the evening.

He said at around 8pm on the same day, they visited the Hlophe homestead, together with the witness who was had been assaulted. Dube said the witness repeated the same statement in front of the suspect that they were killing and eating the chickens. The chairman said he then approached the suspect and asked why he was prevented from seeing them together with the other suspects and he responded that he would not allow that to happen as the community police members wanted to beat them.

Dube said the suspect was carrying a dagga branch when they found him, which he then used to assault him across the face. Furthermore, he said the challenge was that they did not have any weapons to protect themselves except for the sjamboks, which were usually of no assistance. Dube said they made an appeal to the areas Member of Parliament (MP), who offered them bibs and were taken to the umphakatsi where they were received by an elder.

We have two factions at the umphakatsi, which do not see eye-to-eye, making our job very difficult, said the chairman. Dube said although they were united as community police members working under Motshane, there was tension, which came from umphakatsi, as some people favoured different factions. He appealed to the authorities of the country to resolve the matter as it was affecting the community negatively.
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Ahmad Farhad, a Pakistani journalist and poet, has been missing for more than a week amid concerns from his family that he has been abducted, global human rights group Amnesty International said.

Mr Farhads family alleged that he was forcibly disappeared from his home in Islamabad on the night of 14 May when he was returning home late from dinner.

Amnesty said the family witnessed Mr Farhad being taken away.

Mr Farhads family submitted a petition to the Islamabad High Court, claiming that he had been abducted from outside his home by the countrys powerful spy agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), due to his criticism of the authorities.

Pakistans government denies that Mr Farhad, 38, is held by the ISI.

However, the court has demanded security forces to present Mr Farhad within four days and said failure to comply may result in the summoning of senior government officials for questioning.

Amnesty International called on the authorities to investigate and said Mr Farhads whereabouts remain unknown.

Information regarding Ahmads whereabouts must be made known, and he must be released immediately. The authorities must ensure an effective, prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigation is conducted into the circumstances of Ahmads enforced disappearance, the organisation said.

Mr Farhad is originally from the Bagh district of Pakistan-administered Kashmir and is known for his criticism of the Pakistan military establishment.

His wife Syeda Rooj Zainab told Al Jazeera that two days after the alleged abduction, she received a message from Mr Farhad via WhatsApp, urging her to retract her court petition in exchange for his safe return.

I could tell he was being coerced into sending the message. He asked me to withdraw my petition, and he would return home. He also said he is away for some private business, but it was clearly a forced statement, she said.

Mr Farhad is a journalist with 15 years of experience and has worked for a range of mainstream Pakistani TV news channels, including Bol News, Hum News, Neo News and Capital TV.

He is also a renowned Urdu poet, who has raised political themes such as enforced disappearances in his poetry, according to Amnesty International.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also wrote on X and demanded that Mr Farhad be released immediately by the authorities.

HRCP demands that such abductions and arrests of those seen as political dissenters must come to an end immediately. There can be no compromise on artistic freedoms and freedom of expression.

According to Amnesty International, enforced disappearances have been used in Pakistan to silence journalists, human rights defenders, dissenters and groups belonging to minority populations, particularly from Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

It noted that there is no law criminalising enforced disappearances and there persists a lack of accountability from the state. Families of the disappeared are regularly subject to harassment, surveillance and intimidation by the state for demanding accountability for their loved ones.

The practice of enforced disappearances violates the right to liberty, right to a fair trial and the right to freedom from torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, the human rights group said.
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As many as 40 passengers remain in hospital after their Singapore Airlines flight suffered severe turbulence resulting in the death of one Briton.

Six Britons are still fighting for their lives and two crew members who were on board flight SQ321 are still in Bangkok hospitals.

There was a total of 20 passengers in intensive care units in Bangkok on Wednesday evening as investigators arrived in the Thai capital to learn how the turbulence sent the plane into a sudden dive.

The number of patients in ICU remain the same, Adinun Kittiratanapaibool, Director of Bangkoks Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital told reporters, referring to the medical facilitys intensive care unit.

The meaning of those in ICU are those that need close attention, he said, and added that currently there were no life-threatening cases.

Of the 40 people on the flight still under treatment, 22 patients have spinal cord injuries and six have brain and skull injuries, he said.

open image in gallery The interior of Singapore Airline flight SQ321 is pictured after an emergency landing at Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Thailand, 21 May 2024 ( REUTERS )

An update from Singapore Airlines, said: This includes 46 passengers and two crew members who are in the hospital receiving medical treatment.

Singapore Airlines is in contact with all the passengers and crew members who are still in Bangkok. 

Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong has been meeting the affected passengers, crew, their family members and loved ones in Bangkok today to personally offer his support and to understand their concerns.

Mr Goh Choon Phong said: The well-being of our passengers and crew members remains our priority. I have given them my personal assurance that we will take care of them during this difficult time. Our staff volunteers are here to provide each passenger with updates and the necessary assistance.

We have also facilitated the travel of their family members and loved ones to Bangkok and ensured that they are taken care of too.On behalf of Singapore Airlines, I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone in Singapore, Thailand, and around the world, who have assisted us during this difficult time.

open image in gallery The interior shows the damage on the flight ( REUTERS )

The incident happened 10 hours into the flight from London Heathrow to Singapore, when the Boeing 777 carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members, dropped 6,000ft in about three minutes.

The dive tossed people around the cabin, with some suffering head injuries from hitting the ceiling.

After regaining control, the captain diverted the plane to Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi Airport, where medical teams evaluated those aboard and sent more than 80 to hospital.

open image in gallery British man killed in severe turbulence named as Geoffrey Kitchen ( Facebook )

There was also tragedy, with 73-year-old Geoffrey Kitchen dying from a suspected heart attack. Mr Kitchen, from Thornbury near Bristol, was described as the most wonderful human by a friend on Wednesday.

Josh Silverstone, from south London, was discharged from hospital after suffering a cut to his eye and a chipped tooth.

The 24-year-old, who was on his way to Bali, said: I woke up on the floor, I didnt realise what happened, I mustve hit my head somewhere. There were people laying out on the floor, they were paralysed.
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Going to your first festival with friends should be exciting, rewarding and fun, making it one of the highlights of the summer holiday.

But if your teen hasnt spent much time away from home, or travelled long distances without any adult supervision before, its understandable some parents could be in two minds about letting them go.

So, should parents let their teens go to a festival with friends  and what do you need to be asking if they do go?

Start small and set expectations

If its your teens first ever festival, counsellor Georgina Sturmer acknowledges the idea of a big full-on weekender might feel a bit overwhelming for both of you.

And they might not meet the minimum age requirement, she says  making this a first thing to check. If thats the case, consider how you can introduce them to the idea. Maybe theres the option of a day ticket, or a small, local festival instead, or a family camping trip to test out their outdoors skills.

This could be a chance to get prepared for bigger more independent trips in the future, and ask some key questions: What kind of kit does your teen need? And do they know how to use it? Festivals are a great way to encourage our teens to get outdoors, to learn new skills. But they may well need some support and practice to get them there.

Matt Buttery, chief executive of positive parenting program Triple P UK and Ireland, agrees. This may be one of the first times your teen is without adult supervision, so decide on your familys expectations and discuss these with your child.

Be sure to praise their good behaviour generally as a basis for setting out what you expect from them, he says. But beyond behaviour, it is also important to establish any ground rules, such as communication while they are away, and setting out the importance of this in maintaining trust and ensuring their safety.

Explore your own fears and worries

Sturmer acknowledges its natural to feel a bit worried or anxious when our children take new steps towards independence and adventures.

But if you find yourself overwhelmed with fear or worry, its important to explore these for yourself, she says. Are your fears rational, and if so, can you take steps to mitigate them? Or are you becoming overwhelmed with irrational worry? If so, how can you help yourself to catch the catastrophe and soothe yourself? Above all else, remember that you are in charge.

Have a plan for peer pressure

Peer pressure can sometimes lead to young people engaging in risky behaviour. Help them prepare for this too, letting them know its ok to say no and talk about any worries they may have.

If they see their friends doing something such as drinking, smoking or vaping, they might feel like they too need to do this to stay in the friendship group, or to make friends in new situations, says Buttery.

This may be more of a concern for parents who would not necessarily be accompanying their teen to the festival. To help manage this, come up with a plan  with your child  to help them tackle peer pressure, so they are prepared should a situation arise. For example, help them think up a line they can use to turn down these things. This will help them gain the confidence to say no outright.

Whilst peer pressure is influential, so is family. By talking together, you can make your values and opinions clear and helping them to build confidence to say no will teach a valuable life skill of setting boundaries, which will set them up well for the future.

Come up with logistics and contingencies

Planning will help both parents and their teen feel more confident and secure about things.

Encourage your teen to map out what they need, how they will get there, and how they will keep themselves  and their belongings  safe and secure, says Sturmer.

Also consider contingency planning, what happens if someone becomes unwell, or if they got lost? And most importantly, are they able to rely on their own skills to figure things out if their devices are broken or lost or stolen?Foster open communication

As Buttery points out, fostering open communication with your child from an early age will help parents maintain positive communications channels during the teen years.

Be curious, not furious. If your teen wants to go to a festival with their friends, its important not to overreact and instead talk to your teen to understand their motivation, while also discussing the risks, he says.

Having open dialogue generally will allow your teen to talk with you about a wide array of issues, such as their mental health, concerns at school or with friends, and as they get older, about alcohol, partners and drugs, and will make them feel comfortable when approaching you with this request.

Drugs and alcohol

Theres no denying that your teen might be exposed to, or offered, drugs or alcohol if they are attending a festival.

It might be helpful to have an open and honest conversation about this topic before they go, says Sturmer, to help them to explore any fears or misconceptions, and to set some ground rules and boundaries about what you expect.
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U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is expected to meet with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun, at a major defense conference in Singapore next week, the Pentagon announced Friday.

It will be the first meeting between the two defense leaders following a phone call in April. It comes as the U.S. and China have gradually worked to warm relations, which had been largely frozen since a controversial visit by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022 resulted in China temporarily stopping most military-to-military communications.

Austin and Dong, China's minister of national defense, are expected to meet during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore next week, an annual meeting of defense ministers and government officials from more than 50 countries.

The meeting also comes, however, as China has engaged in aggressive military drills around Taiwan, resulting in Taiwan scrambling jets and putting missile, naval and land units on alert Thursday.

China launched the exercises after the islands new president, Lai Ching-te, was inaugurated and delivered a speech asking Beijing to cease its intimidation against the island but face the reality of its existence. Beijing rejected his remarks as advocating for separatism and launched the military drills.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and vows to seize it by force if necessary to achieve unification. The U.S. is obligated under federal law to ensure the island can defend itself.

In the wake of those exercises, the U.S. has cautioned China not to use Taiwan's political transition as a pretext or excuse for provocative or coercive measures, a defense official said. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that had not been made public.

The two governments began to engage each other more after President Biden hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping in November in California and stressed the need to keep communications open.

Dong is a former naval commander who was appointed in late December after his predecessor, Li Shangfu, was removed from office. Dong spoke with Austin by phone in April over issues including the war in Ukraine, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, Taiwan and North Korea.

Austin last met a Chinese defense minister in November 2022, when he and Wei Fenghe, then Chinas defense minister, were in Cambodia for a regional defense minister meeting.

No U.S. defense secretary has visited China since Jim Mattis visited in 2018.
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German police cleared about 150 pro-Palestinian demonstrators from a Berlin university faculty on Thursday, ending one of a wave of student-led protests across Europe over Israels conduct in its war against Hamas.

Activists had occupied several rooms of the Humboldt Universitys Institute for Social Sciences in downtown Berlin on Wednesday.

Student Coalition Berlin, the group which organized the protest, called in a statement posted on social media for the university to take an active role in ending the genocide against the people of Palestine and their decades-long suffering.

University administrators agreed after talks with protest leaders to let them stay until Thursday evening. But they called in the police when some of them refused to leave, German news agency dpa reported.

Police spokeswoman Beate Ostertag said that, while some of the demonstrators left voluntarily, police officers had to lead others from the building. Police said about 130 people were briefly detained during the operation, in which officers broke through several barricaded doors.

Student protests over the war in Gaza that began in the United States have spread to university campuses in many European countries. In Germany, protests have taken place this week at universities in cities including Munich and Leipzig.

Berlin authorities have taken a tough line against anti-Israeli demonstrations, urging police to step in if demonstrators use slogans that could incite hatred against Jews  taboo in a country marked by the memory of the Holocaust.

There is no place for hate and anti-Semitism in Berlin and at our universities, said Burkard Dregger, a lawmaker for the Christian Democratic Union, which leads the Berlin state government.
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The US Coast Guard has issued an update on the investigation into the Titan submersible disaster almost a year on from the tragedy that claimed five lives.

On 18 June 2023, the OceanGate Titan sub lost contact with its ship crew nearly two hours into its expedition to the wreck of the Titanic in the North Atlantic Ocean.

An gripping search-and-rescue mission for the vessel, which was just 6.7 metres long, was quickly underway in a bid to rescue the trapped crew before the vessels 96-hour oxygen supply ran out.

Throughout, there had been some hope that the five men onboard  Hamish Harding, Stockton Rush, Shahzada and Suleman Dawood, and Paul-Henri Nargeolet  were alive after rescue crews reported hearing intermittent banging noises.

But shortly after the timer on the subs oxygen supply would have run out, debris from the wreck were found and it emerged that the sub had imploded, killing all onboard.

The remains of the sub were discovered just 500 metres from the bow of the Titanic, which famously sank in April 1912, killing an estimated 1,500 people.

The Coast Guard confirmed that it had recovered presumed human remains from the site on 28 June.

The US Coast Guard has issued an update into the Titan submersible investigation ( OceanGate Expeditions )

Now, the Coast Guard has revealed that this investigation is in its fact-finding stage almost a year on from the tragedy.

A spokesperson for the Coast Guard told The Independent: The Titan Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) remains in the fact-finding phase of the investigation and is collecting all relevant evidence and information.

A projected completion date is not available.

The latter part of the fact-finding phase will include a public hearing, and the MBI will provide at least 60 days notice ahead of the public hearing.

Tickets to the wreck of the Titanic were sold for $250,000 ( OceanGate Expeditions )

Shortly after the disaster, the privately owned company which organised the expedition at a cost of $250,000 per passenger, OceanGate, ceased operation, pending the ongoing investigation.

The last official update came from the US Coast Guard in November 2023, when it was announced that a review of the evidence from the disaster was conducted on 8 November.

The remains of the submersible were discovered metres from the Titanics bow ( 1912 AP )

This came following an update in October when it was announced that the remaining debris had been removed and transferred from the ocean floor on 4 October.

The Coast Guard said: The recovered evidence was successfully transferred to a US port for cataloguing and analysis.

Additional presumed human remains were carefully recovered from within Titans debris and transported for analysis by US medical professionals.

The MBI is coordinating with NTSB and other international investigative agencies to schedule a joint evidence review of recovered Titan debris.

The MBI will continue evidence analysis and witness interviews ahead of a public hearing regarding this tragedy.

The five crew members confirmed to have died are, clockwise from top left, Hamish Harding, Stockton Rush, Shahzada and Suleman Dawood, and Paul-Henri Nargeolet ( Dirty Dozen Productions/OceanGate/AFP/Getty )

It is believed that the catastrophic implosion which destroyed the Titan took place shortly after it lost contact with the surface.

A US Defense official told The Wall Street Journal that the implosion was detected on the US Navys secret underwater microphones. A claim that was also reported by the Associated Press.

The U.S. Navy conducted an analysis of acoustic data and detected an anomaly consistent with an implosion or explosion in the general vicinity of where the Titan submersible was operating when communications were lost, a senior official told The Wall Street Journal.

While not definitive, this information was immediately shared with the Incident Commander to assist with the ongoing search and rescue mission.

Following the disaster, questions were raised about the safety of extreme tourism and the ethics of commercialising the Titanic wreckage.

It is speculated that the submersible imploded as a result of a failure or weakness in its design.
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A mother who beat her three-year-old son with a bamboo cane and immersed him in scalding water before shaking him to death has been jailed for his murder.

Christina Robinson, 30, exposed her boy Dwelaniyah to a campaign of violence and cruelty and excruciating pain over several weeks before she shook him to death at the family home in Bracken Court, Ushaw Moor, Durham, in November 2022.

A trial at Newcastle Crown Court heard Robinson, a member of the Black Hebrew Israelite religion, admitted hitting the little boy with a bamboo cane but claimed she was following a Bible scripture, which advised the use of the rod for the correction of children.

She also deliberately immersed him in scalding water, causing severe burns that left him in agony.

Dwelaniyah Robinson, three, who was murdered by his mother ( PA Media )

Robinson did not seek medical help as safeguarding concerns would have been obvious if a health worker saw him.

After the toddlers violent death at the hands of his mother, investigators found a broken cane in her house, which had traces of his skin and blood on it. Forensic scientists also detected blood stains on Dwelaniyahs teddy bear as well as in different rooms in the family home.

Robinson, originally from Tamworth, Staffordshire, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years on Friday, after she was convicted of murder and four child cruelty charges at the same court in March.

Robinson was also convicted of child neglect after repeatedly leaving her children at home alone as she conducted an affair while her husband was several hundred miles away serving at an RAF base near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

Passing sentence, Mr Justice Garnham said she was guilty of a gross abuse of trust as the victims mother.

Christina Robinson, 30, did not seek medical help as safeguarding concerns would have been obvious if a health worker saw her son ( Durham Police/PA Wire )

The judge found that Robinson immersed her son in extremely hot water, causing burns to his lower limbs which affected 20 per cent of his body, after Dwelaniyah had soiled himself.

He told her: You must have known the water was extremely hot, it must have been obvious.

Despite the excruciating pain her son must have suffered in the days that followed, Robinson saw fit to cause further injury by beating him with a cane.

The judge said: What must have gone through the mind of this little boy, being beaten with a cane by his mother, despite these terrible burns, does not bear thinking about.

The judge accepted that when Robinson shook Dwelaniyah, causing fatal brain injuries, she did not intend to kill him. He also rejected claims that she was motivated by sadism, saying there was no evidence she took pleasure from inflicting pain.

The cane used by Christina Robinson to discipline her son Dwelaniyah ( Durham Police/PA Wire )

But the judge said her mistreatment of Dwelaniyah in the last weeks of her sons life was appalling in the highest degree. That was reflected in messages she sent to her boyfriend saying Dwelaniyah deserved a major ass kicking, that hes old enough to know better, so hell pay and that hell get what he deserves, no more, no less.

Robinson represented herself and continues to deny she killed her son, saying: I pray for the day when justice will be served.

Following a three-week trial, the jury found that the defendant  who had told jurors she wanted to have a family with more than 10 children  caused a fatal brain injury to her son on 5 November 2022 while she was the only adult in the house.

It was more than 20 minutes before she dialled 999, first speaking to her husband on the phone despite him being 240 miles away serving with the RAF, and then using Google to look at how to resuscitate a child.

Christina Robinson when police were called to her home in Durham, in November 2022 ( CPS/PA Wire )

When the emergency services arrived, Robinson appeared calm as she explained her false version of events to a police officer while medics worked desperately on Dwelaniyah.

Despite their efforts at the scene, he could not be saved and probably died at the house, although further attempts to resuscitate him were made in hospital.

A post-mortem examination revealed he had been the victim of a series of assaults and had sustained a number of non-accidental injuries.

In his closing speech, Richard Wright KC, prosecuting, told the court Dwelaniyah was subjected to a campaign of violence and cruelty by his mother for petty wrongs.

Outside court following the sentencing hearing, Detective Chief Inspector Simon Turner said: Dwelaniyah was a defenceless little boy who had his life ahead of him, but this was cruelly taken away his own mother  someone he should have been able to trust, someone who should have cared about him.

We may never know why or what caused Christina Robinson to do what she did.

Her actions are unforgivable and sadly nothing will bring Dwelaniyah back, but at least she is now facing the consequences of what she has done.
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A road rage driver who shouted and swore at a lone female motorist has avoided being sent to prison and been ordered to take an anger management course.

Translator Peter Abbott had threatened and used vile language to Samantha Isaacs during an incident outside a Tesco petrol station in Bournemouth on 25 August last year.

After she beeped him for a minor incident, he exited his vehicle and banged on her windscreen with his fists before unleashing the foul-mouthed tirade.

He shouted at her, Can you f***ing see me you f***ing tart? He then called her a s*** and a w**** and put his head up against the windscreen.

Another motorist went to intervene and called Abbott a bully, and told him, What is wrong with you, its a woman on her own. Abbott replied, Shes a f***ing bloody annoying woman.

He was convicted following a trial at Poole Magistrates Court of using threatening abusive or insulting words or behaviour towards her, leaving her scared all the time when driving.

Abbott was sentenced at Poole Magistrates Court ( PA )

District Judge Orla Austin sentenced the 60-year-old, of Boscombe Cliff Road, Bournemouth, to a 12-week prison sentence suspended for 18 months and disqualified him from driving for 18 months.

He was also ordered to carry out 20 rehabilitation days, to complete an anger management course and pay 300 compensation to Ms Isaacs and 300 court costs.

Sentencing Abbott, District Judge Austin said: I take the view this was an extremely serious matter.

Ms Isaacs was a lone female in her car, this was a sustained incident, your level of anger and aggression was extremely high, the language you used was extremely offensive and you put her in significant fear with an ongoing effect on her life.

Bystanders intervened, such was the level of your aggression.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Ms Isaacs said: I dont trust any motorist now, I feel my confidence in driving has taken a huge knock.

I am now turning away work that is further afield. I keep my doors always locked, I never drive unless I really must, I am so angry the man has taken my job pleasure away from me, I am angry that I am scared all the time when I drive.

Abbott told the court that he accepted he needed to seek anger management counselling as he had become isolated in recent years.

The court heard that a personal reference for Abbott from a friend described him as a peaceful, introverted and bookish person.

He said: I have been isolated for quite a long while, this is mainly due to the nature of my work, I am a translator, I spend days and weeks holed up in my apartment in front of the computer.

So progressively over the 12 years I have been back in the UK I have noticed my relationships with people have diminished to the point where I didnt have any contact with friends or family.

He added: I have always expressed regret and remorse for my part in the incident and fully hold my hands up to that and realise it was wrong and I am prepared to accept the consequences of that behaviour.
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Police are not treating the death of a former Royal Marine accused of assisting the Hong Kong intelligence service as suspicious.

Immigration enforcement officer Matthew Trickett, 37, was found dead after being bailed from Westminster Magistrates Court last week, alongside Chi Leung (Peter) Wai, 38, and Chung Biu Yuen, 63.

His body was discovered in Grenfell Park, Maidenhead, at around 5.15pm on Sunday after a report from a member of the public, officers said on Tuesday.

Mr Trickett was found dead in a Maidenhead park ( PA Wire )

A Thames Valley police spokesman said: On Wednesday a Home Office post-mortem was completed on behalf of His Majestys Coroner.

As a result of this and further enquiries conducted by detectives, we can confirm the death is not being treated as suspicious. Thames Valley Police is now preparing a file for the Coronial process.

Mr Tricketts family are being supported by specialist officers, our thoughts remain with them, and we would kindly ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

Previously his family said: Were mourning the loss of a much-loved son, brother and family man.

Mr Tricketts solicitor Julian Hayes, senior partner at Berris Law, said: We are naturally shocked at this news and supporting his family as best we can.

A local resident said the popular park, which is located close to Maidenhead railway station in Berkshire, was busy on Sunday.

Tatiana Dioniseva, 30, said: There were so many people here  there were children everywhere. It was a bit bizarre because it was sunny  there were children about and then a crime scene over there.

Prosecutor Kashif Malik said during last weeks hearing that Mr Trickett had attempted suicide after being charged, and had asked for the defendant to be remanded in custody for his own welfare.

Mr Trickett was charged with offences under the National Security Act ( PA Archive )

Mr Trickett was formerly employed by the UK Border Force at Heathrow Airport, before joining Home Office immigration enforcement on 21 February 2024, and was previously a Royal Commando in the Marines for six years. He was also the director of MTR Consultancy, a security firm formed in April 2021.

Mr Wai works as a Border Force officer at Heathrow airport and Mr Yuen is employed as a Hong Kong trade official based in London.

The charges alleged that between 20 December 2023 and 2 May 2024, the trio agreed to undertake information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely to materially assist a foreign intelligence service.

It is also alleged that on 1 May 2024 they forced entry into a UK residential address, being reckless as to whether the prohibited conduct, or course of conduct of which it forms part, would have an interference effect.

They were charged with the offences under the National Security Act following an investigation by the Mets counterterrorism command that saw a total of 11 people arrested.

They had all been bailed and were next due to appear at the Old Bailey on Friday.

In March, the government accused China of conducting a cyber espionage campaign against politicians and the Electoral Commission.

Chinas UK embassy spokesperson previously said: For some time now, the UK has staged a series of accusations against China, including those on China spies and cyberattacks. All those accusations are groundless and slanderous.

Following Mr Tricketts death, a mandatory referral was made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct as he was regularly registering at a police station while on bail, with the matter now passed to Thames Valley Polices Professional Standards Department to investigate.

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org
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The mother of a Manchester Arena bombing victim who walked 200 miles to Downing Street has said she feels misled by Rishi Sunak after he promised to pass a law in her sons name.

Figen Murray, the mother of Martyn Hett, had talks with the PM on Wednesday in which he promised to introduce Martyns Law to parliament before the summer recess.

But just hours later, Mr Sunak called the snap 4 July election, leaving just two days of parliamentary time for the so-called wash up of important outstanding legislation.

Figen Murray delivered a petition to Downing Street on the same day the Prime Minister called the General Election ( PA Wire )

Following the meeting with the PM, Ms Murray said he had promised her he would introduce Martyns Law to Parliament before summer recess but could not guarantee the legislation would be passed before the next election.

Martyns Law, named in tribute to the 29-year-old who was one of 22 people killed at the end of an Ariana Grande concert in May 2017, would require venues and local authorities in the UK to have training requirements and preventative plans against terror attacks.

The PMs decision to call the general election will likely mean he is unable to pass the bill at all, let alone present it before summer recess. A Labour source said: If Rishi Sunak will lie to a grieving mother, he will lie to anyone.

And Dame Diana Johnson, chairman of the home affairs select committee, accused the prime minister of misleading Ms Murray.

Shed walked 200 miles from Manchester to London to mark the seventh anniversary of that terror atrocity, Dame Diana told the House of Commons on Friday.

She said Ms Murray has tirelessly campaigned for the law and highlighted the PMs promise to rush it through parliament before the summer recess.

She added: Mr Speaker, have you had any explanation from the prime minister about why he would say that when four hours later he called the general election and clearly no bill could be rushed through before the summer recess and the fact that Figen Murray was misled by the prime minister?

Just one day of Commons business remains, during which important legislation will have to be rushed through.

The legislation was dubbed Martyns Law in memory of the Manchester Arena bombing victim, Martyn Hett ( PA Media )

Speaking on to ITVs Good Morning Britain, Ms Murray said: During the meeting yesterday we shook hands, he actually agreed, he promised that he will bring it into Parliament before summer recess but he could not guarantee that its going to be done by the next general election.

We shook hands and he looked me straight me in the eyes so I dont feel I was being lied to because he at that point knew what he was going to do later that day but he must have been in a really difficult position.

However he could have maybe handled it slightly differently. I feel a bit misled rather than lied to.

Ms Murray added: He is behind the legislation definitely and we had a conversation on the phone 18 months ago where he said he is absolutely fully supportive of the legislation, its a no-brainer, and he would support it.

The staunch campaigner began her walk on May 7 on the spot where her son was killed in the atrocity as she continues to demand Martyns Law is introduced to Parliament after numerous reassurances from the Government over the past five years that it would happen.

Ms Murray also met with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday who told her he would pass Martyns Law if there was a change of government. She later said: While this is very encouraging, we dont want to wait for a new government to get this done.

Figen Murray and her husband Stuart speaking to Sir Keir Starmer (Stefan Rousseau/PA) ( PA Wire )

With all party support and public security at risk, there is no excuse for not getting this done now.

Asked whether the Prime Minister had lied to Ms Murray by telling her the Bill would be brought forward before summer recess, his official spokesman said: I cant speak to private conversations but clearly the PM joined people across the country in paying tribute to Figen Murray and obviously, as he said yesterday, remembering the victims from the Manchester Arena bombings seven years ago. Shes been a tireless campaigner.

Hes obviously talked previously about bringing the legislation forward as soon as possible.
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Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and cabinet veteran Michael Gove appeared at the head of a Lib Dem hit list of top Tory targets they believe they can unseat in the general election.

The list is part of a wider strategy by the Lib Dems to break the Tory blue wall of traditionally safe seats across the south of England with previously unwinnable constituencies in counties such as Surrey now in their targets.

The revelation came just hours before Mr Gove announced he would be standing down at the general election after almost 20 years as an MP.

Since winning the Chesham and Amersham by-election in 2021, Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey has made no secret of his hopes to repaint the blue wall yellow on the electoral map.

But the plan to pour extra resources into seats held by five current cabinet ministers and five more being vacated by former Tory grandees including Theresa May and Sir John Redwood has echoes of the partys disastrous decapitation strategy in 2005 which backfired spectacularly.

The Lib Dems believe Michael Goves Surrey Heath seat is vulnerable ( PA )

Back in the 2005 election, the Lib Dems put forward a list that included the then Tory leader Michael Howard and one of his top lieutenants, Oliver Letwin, which they believed they could take. In the end, they failed in all of them and most targets increased their majorities.

But this time, with a poll today suggesting the Lib Dems could win more seats than the Conservatives, the partys leadership is optimistic about pulling off some major shocks.

In the new constituency of Godalming and Ash, which includes the majority of what was previously South West Surrey, Mr Hunt has ploughed 100,000 of his own money to defend the seat as he becomes nervous. Before the boundary changes, he had an 8,817 majority in 2019.

Meanwhile, the Lib Dems believe that Mr Goves Surrey Heath seat is also up for grabs. It too was altered in the boundary review but the Lib Dems hope to overturn what was an 18,349 majority in 2019 under the old boundaries.

Jeremy Hunt could be in danger of losing his seat ( PA Wire )

Other cabinet ministers being heavily targeted are education secretary Gillian Keegan in Chichester, culture secretary Lucy Frazer in South East Cambridgeshire, and justice secretary Alex Chalk in Cheltenham.

Few are giving Mr Chalk much hope of holding on with a majority from 2019 of just 981. Ms Frazer is also in trouble, defending a majority of 11,490, while Ms Keegan looks safer with a majority of 21,490. All the nominal majorities have been affected by the boundary review.

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper told The Independent: Conservative bigwigs are not safe from losing their seats after their disastrous record in government.

A string of Conservative ministers have completely botched their jobs, from crashing the economy to letting hospitals crumble and sewage pollute our rivers.

There is no such thing as a safe Conservative seat anymore. The British public are fed up after years of sleaze and scandal.

The Liberal Democrats are ready to kick these Conservative big beasts out of office. Across vast swathes of the country, it is a two-horse race between the Liberal Democrats and a desperately out of touch Conservative party.

The Lib Dems also hope to take out former cabinet minister Greg Clark in Tunbridge Wells who became the 75th Tory MP to announce he was standing down today. Meanwhile, the Lib Dems are aiming at seats of other departing grandees Theresa May in Maidenhead, Sir John Redwood in Wokingham, Dominic Raab in Esher and Walton, and Nadhim Zahawi in Stratford-on-Avon.
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Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has been banished from the party after announcing he will stand as an independent candidate in Islington North in the general election.

Mr Corbyns announcement on Friday morning will have come as a headache for leader Sir Keir Starmer, who banned his predecessor from standing for Labour after he claimed the scale of antisemitism in the party was dramatically overstated.

In response, Sir Keir reaffirmed to Sky News why he blocked the 74-year-old from standing for Labour, claiming he would tear antisemitism out of our party by the roots.

He added: That was my first solemn promise, and I followed through on that, and that is why I took the decision that Jeremy Corbyn would not stand as a Labour candidate at this election.

Now whats happened with Jeremy standing as an independent, thats a matter for him.

Soon after, it emerged that Mr Corbyn had been informed that his party membership had been revoked. And just hours after that, Labour selected local entrepeneur Praful Nargund to stand against him.

The contest will be one of the most closely watched on election night, with Mr Corbyn hoping his tireless local campaigning will help him hold the seat against the odds.

Mr Corbyn, who has held Islington North seat for more than 40 years, made the announcement to stand as an independent in an interview with the Islington Tribune in which he said he would be a voice for equality, democracy and peace.

For updates ahead of the general election - follow our live blog by clicking here

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn says he want to continue representing Islington North constituents on issues such as social justice, human rights and peace ( PA Wire )

He said: I am here to represent the people of Islington North on exactly the same principles that Ive stood by my whole life: social justice, human rights and peace.

He vowed to defend a genuine alternative to the corrupt years of this Tory government, focusing on rent controls, public ownership of energy and water and an ethical foreign policy based on peace and human rights.

Mr Corbyn, who was Labour leader from 2015 to 2020, added: When I was first elected, I made a promise to stand by my constituents no matter what. In Islington North, we keep our promises.

But The Jewish Labour Movement (JLM) said the party became an unsafe space for Jews under Mr Corbyns leadership.

He refused to acknowledge the scale of antisemitism in Labour, even when the EHRC found the party guilty of breaking the law, a spokesman said.

The spokesman added: The Labour Party we see today is unrecognisable from what it had become under Corbyn, thanks to the leadership of Keir Starmer. Voters in Islington North deserve a Labour MP and Government - we'll be campaigning to make sure they get one.

Mr Corbyn was suspended by Labour after he refused to fully accept the Equality and Human Rights Commissions findings that the party broke equality law when he was in charge.

Labour is yet to announce its candidate for the seat, which will be contested in the general election on 4 July, announced by Rishi Sunak earlier this week. Although, the party has shortlisted Sem Moema, a member of the London Assembly, and Praful Nargund, an Islington councillor.

Sir Keir gave his reaction on both Sky News and BBC Breakfast, saying it was a matter for Mr Corbyn.

He told BBC Breakfast: In the end, this election is about a choice, a choice of five more years of the chaos and division that weve seen over the last 14 years or turning the page and rebuilding our country with Labour.

That is whats on the ballot paper, whether its in Islington North or anywhere else across the country.

At the last general election in 2019, Mr Corbyn won the seat for Labour with a share of the vote of more than 64 per cent. The Lib Dems, who have named Vikas Aggarwal as their candidate for the seat, came second.

The size of Mr Corbyns majority had made the seat one of the safest for Labour in the country.

Corbyn pictured after winning the Islington North seat at the 2019 general election. He has held the seat since 1983 ( AP )

Labour candidate Mr Nargund said: Its an honour to have been chosen as Labours candidate for Islington North and I look forward to the campaign ahead. I promise to be a truly local MP, that represents all families and businesses that call this special place their home.

Only Labour can change the country and fix 14 years of Tory failure.

A vote for Labour is a vote for getting Britain building again to drive growth, to switch on GB Energy to lower bills, take back our streets with 13,000 more neighbourhood police and PCSOs, make our NHS fit for the future, to break down barriers to opportunity for every child with mental health support and free breakfast clubs, and a long-term plan to rebuild Britain.

Earlier this week, Labour MP John McDonnell said Mr Corbyn would still have a lot of very personal support if he stood as an independent - he also said he hoped Labour leader Sir Keir would allow him to return as a Labour candidate.

Its also believed that discontent over Labour leader Sir Keirs stance on the war in Gaza could boost his vote.

However, a group of more than 100 local Labour party members who oppose Mr Corbyn say they are confident he does not hold the support of party voters.

Under the banner Win Islington North, the organisations organiser Alexander Gardiner said: This is a narcissistic, self-indulgent distraction by a man who cant accept that his time is up. Islington is a diverse community that faces real challenges.

It needs a dynamic, forward-thinking MP ready to bring about real change.

This article was amended on the day of publication. It originally said that Mr Corbyn had been banned from standing for Labour after he failed to apologise for his handling of antisemitism within the party. This was inaccurate. Mr Corbyn was banned from standing after he claimed the scale of antisemitism within the party had been overstated.
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Diane Abbott has attacked Sir Keir Starmer for claiming her suspension from the party is nothing to do with him.

The suspended MP, who represented Labour for 36 years until last April, said the long-running investigation into her is entirely up to the Labour leader

The decision about whether to let Diane Abbott back into Labour has everything to do with him, a message posted on her X account said.

Diane Abbott was suspended last April for an article she wrote about Jewish people ( AP )

It came as Sir Keir confirmed Labours investigation into Ms Abbott will be completed by 4 June in what will be a make or break moment for the veteran MP.

Its not a question of what I want... the days when the leader of the Labour Party rolls up his or her sleeves and gets involved in disciplinary cases are well and truly over, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme. He added: Thats what Jeremy Corbyn did and it ended very badly.

The Labour leader said his party will have to resolve the long-running probe very soon now. We have a cutoff date, I think it is 4 June we have a process in place and we will complete it reasonably soon now, he told LBC.

Sir Keir added that Labours ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) would decide in the end.

An investigation into the long-serving black MP has been ongoing since her suspension last April following an article she wrote about Jewish people, with pressure mounting on the party over why it has been taking so long.

Ms Abbott had the whip suspended last April after writing a letter suggesting Jewish people are not subjected to the same racism as some other minorities.

She immediately apologised and said the letter published in The Observer had been an initial draft sent by mistake.

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner and mother of the House Harriet Harman are among those who have said they want her allowed back into the party.

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner has said she wants Ms Abbott back in the party ( Getty Images )

Speculation is mounting that Ms Abbott hopes to have the Labour whip restored so she can retire at the election as a Labour MP, having been elected for the party in Hackney North and Stoke Newington in 1987.

If she does not have the party whip back by the 4 June deadline, Ms Abbott will be forced into retirement as an independent MP or will have to stand against the party she represented for three and a half decades.

Labour restoring the whip to Ms Abbott would be seen as an olive branch to MPs and activists on the left, who have long criticised the probe into her as a sham.

But it would open Sir Keir up to charges that he has failed to sufficiently change the Labour Party from the Jeremy Corbyn years, a legacy the Labour leader is keen to distance himself from.

The Independent has been told Ms Abbott was offered the Labour whip back but refused because she would have had to undergo antisemitism training.

She has said the investigation is fraudulent and is being used to bully her.

Ms Abbott has given no indication that she intends to stand down at the next election.

Sir Keir came under renewed pressure to restore the whip to Ms Abbott after his decision to welcome right-wing Tory defector Natalie Elphicke into the Labour fold.

If the tent is big enough for her, I feel sure that Britains first Black woman MP, who has sustained more racist and misogynist abuse than anyone, will have her whip restored urgently, Labour peer Shami Chakrabarti told The Independent.
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Britains lawmakers will leave Parliament on Friday for the last time before an election is held in six weeks. Some will never return - members of Parliament who are retiring or who lose their seats on July 4 face an abrupt readjustment to life outside politics.

After a flurry of last-minute legislation, Parliament will be prorogued, or formally suspended, in a ceremony featuring hat-doffing, lords in ermine-trimmed robes and commands in Norman French.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks surprise decision to call a summer election means that some key pieces of legislation will have to be abandoned - including his flagship plan to ban tobacco sales to future generations.

WHATS HAPPENING ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

On the second full day of campaigning, Sunak and his main opponent, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, have already covered hundreds of miles (kilometers) crisscrossing the U.K. on carefully stage-managed visits to businesses and communities. Sunak is visiting Northern Ireland and central England on Friday, while Starmer is in Scotland and northwest England.

Labour is the strong favorite to win the election after moving from the left toward the political center under Starmer, its leader since 2020.

The party got a reminder of its recent past on Friday, when Starmers predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn, said he would run for Parliament as an independent against Labours candidate. Starmer suspended Corbyn and barred him from running again for Labour after the former leader accused opponents of exaggerating the problem of antisemitism in the party.

Starmer apologized for antisemitism, a move welcomed by many Jewish Labour members and others. But supporters of Corbyn said he was being smeared because of his longtime support for the Palestinian cause.

Labour has not yet chosen its candidate to run in the inner-London seat of Islington North, which Corbyn has represented since 1983.

I am here to represent the people of Islington North on exactly the same principles that Ive stood by my whole life: social justice, human rights and peace, Corbyn said.

HOW IS PARLIAMENT PROROGUED?

Parliament is set to break up for the election with a tradition-steeped ceremony in which lawmakers from the House of Commons are summoned to the House of Lords in the name of King Charles III by an official known as Black Rod. Thats followed by a round of bowing and cap-doffing, before the title of each bill being passed is read out by an official with a cry of le roy le veult -- the king wills it in Norman French.

Parliament will be officially dissolved next week, 25 working days before election day. It will not sit again until after the election, when new members will be sworn in.

The new government, whether Labour or Conservative, is due to announce its legislative program at another occasion of pomp and ceremony, the State Opening of Parliament, on July 17.

WHAT LEGISLATION WILL BE PASSED FIRST?

Members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords were scurrying Friday to pass final pieces of legislation on the last day of a Parliament that began after the previous national election in December 2019 - a process known as washing up.

One of the most significant is a law that will quash the convictions of hundreds of Post Office branch managers who were prosecuted for theft or fraud because a faulty computer system known as Horizon showed money was missing. The prosecutions and yearslong cover-up by Post Office bosses has been called one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in U.K. history.

The Post Office (Horizon System) Offenses Bill was approved by Parliament late Thursday and is due to become law after receiving the formality of royal assent from King Charles III on Friday.

Victims of a tainted blood scandal in which thousands of people were infected with HIV and hepatitis by contaminated blood products in the 1970s and '80s will get compensation after the Victims and Prisoners Bill is passed by Parliament.

Also expected to make the statute book is a bill overhauling property law in England and Wales, giving more rights to people who own leasehold properties, where the buildings freehold is owned by someone else.

WHAT BILLS WILL FAIL?

One of Sunaks flagship policies - a plan to create a smoke-free generation by banning the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after 2008 -- is among the bills that has run out of time.

It could be reintroduced by the new government if the Conservatives win the election. Labour supports the idea in principle and could also introduce a similar bill if it wins power.

A law that would ban landlords from evicting tenants without giving a reason is also falling by the wayside.
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Rishi Sunaks government has been accused of letting renters down after it emerged that legislation banning no-fault evictions will not be passed before the election.

The Conservative pledge to end section 21  or no-fault evictions  will now not be met, as it will not return to the Commons before parliament is prorogued on Friday.

The provision allows landlords to evict tenants without having to give a reason beyond what is in a tenancy agreement.

The bill was first introduced in the Commons in May last year but its progress stalled after Conservative MPs campaigned for stronger protections for landlords.

Commons leader Penny Mordaunt has not included the bill in the list of wash-up legislation that could be rushed through by MPs ahead of the election campaign.

Downing Street denied failing renters, with a spokesperson saying: Its part of the wash-up process that bills are able to be passed where there is a consensus. But of course the government wanted to get this passed and thats why it was introduced in the first place.

Tom Darling, campaign manager of the Renters Reform Coalition, said renters have been badly let down, adding: In 2019 the Conservative Manifesto promised to deliver a better deal for private renters and an end to no-fault evictions.

Renters in England  trapped in an unhealthy, unaffordable and insecure renting system  have been waiting five long years for action on that pledge.

Official figures published this month showed a six-year high in repossessions by bailiffs through no-fault evictions ( PA )

Labours shadow housing minister, Matthew Pennycook, said: The Tories decision to cave in to vested interests and abandon their already-weakened Renters Reform Bill leaves in tatters the promises they made to private tenants five years ago.

If the Tories get back in, renters will remain exposed to spiralling costs, poor housing standards and the risk of homelessness from no-fault evictions.

The Liberal Democrats described it as another Conservative promise abandoned and left in a ditch.

The partys housing spokesperson, Helen Morgan, said: This means the vast majority of renters still face being evicted from their homes through no fault of their own, all because of Conservative infighting.

Housing charity Shelter said that renters have been failed. Polly Neate, the charitys chief executive, said that politicians had let renters down, adding: Its unacceptable that theyve now walked away with nothing to show for it.

Levelling Up secretary Michael Gove had pledged to end no fault evictions before the general election ( PA )

The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) said it will be hugely disappointing if the bill is not made into law.

It had supported the bill, which tenants campaigners had said had been watered down.

Ben Beadle, from the NRLA, said: The bill was in a state which would work for tenants and responsible landlords.

The market now faces yet more crippling uncertainty about what the future of the private rented sector looks like.

Official figures published this month showed a six-year high in repossessions by bailiffs through no-fault evictions.

There were 2,682 such repossessions between January and March this year, according to Ministry of Justice figures - a rise of almost a fifth on the same period last year and the highest number for any quarter since the beginning of 2018.

Ben Twomey, chief executive of Generation Rent, said: Abandoning the Renters Reform Bill as parliament dissolves means the government has failed in its promise to renters at the last election to deliver a fairer tenancy system.

If it had not been for delays caused by a minority of MPs opposing the Bill, the government could enter the election campaign with a new law to end Section 21 evictions and bring in stronger protections for renters.

A Conservative spokesperson said: This process always happens at the start of a general election campaign - and we have rightly passed legislation delivering justice for those affected by the Post Office and infected blood scandals and securing stronger protections for victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and other serious violence.

Our plan to deliver the homes people need in working, delivering 2.5 million more homes since 2010 and increasing Local Housing Allowance by 800. We remain committed to creating a fairer market for renters.
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Sir Keir Starmer has rejected a challenge by Rishi Sunak to take part in head to head TV debates every week between now and polling day.

The Labour leader defended his decision saying he would rather talk to voters directly and claimed the prime minister had nothing new to say.

He poured cold water on the idea after Mr Sunak called for a record six TV election debates and accused the Labour leader of ducking out because he does not have a plan.

With the latest Techne UK weekly tracker poll giving Labour a 26 point lead, Sir Keir has more to lose from televised debates than an increasingly desperate Rishi Sunak.

Sir Keir said on ITVs Good Morning Britain: I could do a hundred debates with Rishi Sunak - I know what he is going to say. He is going to stand up and say everything is fine, the cost of living crisis is over.

Asked if he was backing away from the fight, he said: Of course we will have debates - they are a tradition and part of the electoral cycle. The debate I want to have is with the voters directly.

The Tories noted that the Labour leader had not committed to any TV debates at all. However, Labour sources have reportedly indicated Sir Keir will take part in two televised showdowns with Mr Sunak on BBC and ITV.

Sir Keir Starmer not keen on weekly TV debates (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) ( PA Wire )

The two leaders spat over the matter continued when Mr Sunak ridiculed Sir Keir for allegedly dodging weekly TV confrontations.

The Prime Minister issued a social media post stating: Not coming to a debate near you.

Energy secretary Claire Coutinho said: Sir Keir Starmer is too scared to debate the Prime Minister because he doesnt have a plan and hasnt got the courage to stand up and say what he believes in or to stand up for Britain.

The only thing we can be sure of with Labour is that their sums wont add up  Starmers green promise is part of Labours 38.5 billion spending blackhole that would take working families back to square one with 2,094 of higher taxes to fill the gap.

Previously Mr Sunak had said: I want to debate these issues with Sir Keir Starmer. But he doesnt want to because he doesnt have a plan and doesn't have the courage to say what he wants to do.

Televised leaders debates first featured in the 2010 campaign, when there were three, but the Conservatives are pushing for a record six this time round.

It is customary for party leaders with a lead in the polls to be less enthusiastic about TV debates, largely on the basis that they have most to lose from a gaffe made on live TV in front of millions.

Conversely leaders behind in the polls are most keen to have them because they have most to gain.

In fact TV debates rarely make much difference to the way people vote.

One notable exception was the impressive performances by former Lib Dem leader Sir Nick Clegg in TV debates in the 2010 election campaign which were credited for making him Deputy Prime Minister in Coalition with David Cameron.
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A US father-of-two arrested in Turks and Caicos after ammunition was found in his luggage has avoided jail time and is set to be sent home imminently, his lawyer has said.

Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, has been given a suspended sentence of 52 weeks. His lawyer said he was expected to repatriated by dinner time.

Mr Hagerich was one of several Americans facing a potential minimum sentence of 12 years in prison on ammunition charges in the British territory.

On Friday, a jduge found the case had exceptional circumstances and the lengthy sentence would be arbitrary, according to spokesperson for the British islands Jonathan Franks. He will also have to pay a $6,700 fine, Mr Franks said.

Mr Hagerich was arrested in February while returning home from a family vacation after ammunition was found in his checked luggage. He pleaded guilty to possession of 20 rounds of ammunition.

In an interview with ABC News earlier this month he said he was a man of integrity, character.

I did not have intent in this, he told the outlet.

Prior to his hearing, Mr Hagerich had been living with Ryan Watson  also a father-of-two, who is also facing similar charges of ammunition possession. The men had been living in an Airbnb on the island with Mr Watsons parents, The Indpendent understands.

Mr Watson, who was arrested after attempting to return from a 40th birthday celebration on the island in April, faces trial in June. His wife, Valerie Watson, was also arrested but later released and allowed to return to Oklahoma to be with their children, Ellie, seven, and Van, nine.

Mr Watson previously told The Independent that he would be attending Mr Hagerichs trial to support him. He also said that due to the similarities to his own situation he felt as though he was also on trial.

Were gonna be in that courtroom supporting him as best we can, he said. My mom has adopted him as one of her own, Mr Watson said.

Ryan Watson and his wife Valerie Watson were arrested in April on Turks and Caicos, on similar charges of ammunition possession ( Supplied )

As well as Mr Hagerich and the Watsons, three other American citizens have been detained in recent months on charges relating to ammunition possession: Michael Lee Evans, 72, of Texas; and Tyler Scott Wenrich, 31, of Virginia.

A fifth American, Sharitta Shanise Grier, 45, of Orlando, Florida, was arrested Monday last week during a routine search at the airport, the Royal Turks and Caicos Island Police said.

She was charged with one count of possession of ammunition and was due back in court in July, the release said.

The British territory significantly tightened its gun laws in 2022 following a jump in gun violence and weapons trafficking. The strict penalties were meant to protect the community by deterring gun crimes, the government has said.

In gun and ammunition cases, courts have sentencing discretion for exceptional circumstances, but they cannot limit punishment to a fine with no prison term, the countrys Court of Appeal ruled in February. That means the Americans may not get 12 years in prison, but they also likely wont be able to pay a fine and return home.
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Defense attorneys for Bryan Kohberger are hoping to get their hands on a trove of key evidence they believe could support his alibi that he was out stargazing on the night of the brutal Idaho murders and so could not have been the mass killer.

Among this evidence is mystery cellphone data that law enforcement officials have admitted to only discovering now  18 months on from the murders.

The 29-year-old criminology PhD student is awaiting trial for the November 2022 stabbing deaths of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in an attack that sent shockwaves through the small college community of Moscow.

Investigators linked him to the murders through DNA evidence, cellphone data, an eyewitness account and his white Hyundai Elantra.

But Mr Kohberger claims to have an alibi for the time of the murders: that he was driving around looking at stars and was in Pullman, which is about eight miles west of the off-campus student home at 1122 King Road home, where the slayings unfolded.

Mr Kohberger was out driving in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022; as he often did to hike and run and/or see the moon and stars, his attorney Anne Taylor wrote in court documents.

Bryan Kohberger sits with his attorney, Anne Taylor, during a hearing in Latah County District Court, in September 2023 ( AP )

He drove throughout the area south of Pullman, Washington, west of Moscow, Idaho including Wawawai Park.

Now, his legal team is arguing that prosecutors have not handed all the evidence over for the defense to review and have filed multiple motions to compel the state to do so. Prosecutors insist they are doing all they can to share evidence but have been partly delayed by federal rules, due to the FBIs involvement in the investigation.

This evidence in question is said to include dashcam footage, video and audio recordings of a white sedan close to the crime scene in Moscow, as well as lab testing results  information police used to arrest Mr Kohberger seven weeks on from the murders.

At a court hearing on Thursday May 23, Ms Taylor slammed Moscow Police Detective Lawrence Mowery as he admitted that he had only discovered certain cellphone files one day earlier.

Those were things that existed for quite some time, is that correct? she asked. I want to know all the records you relied on, all of the emails, all the conversations you relied on to produce this thing.

During his testimony, Det Mowery pushed back against the suggestion that police were hiding things from the defense.

He said the records merely show he was called upon in the spring of 2023 to analyze phone records using a data visualization program called CASTViz and that this information was later presented to a grand jury.

Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, were killed in November 2022 ( Instagram )

Even though he didnt save his work, the analysis could be quickly recreated, he said.

I didnt delete anything, he said, adding, I can open the software, drag the CDRs [call detail records] back in, and in a very short time its generated.

The hearing also concerned police efforts to look for evidence on Idaho transit cameras and windy.com, a weather site that temporarily displays shots from state transit feeds. The detective said that while police consulted these feeds as potential sources of evidence, they didnt find anything of value in the case.

Its not clear if the newly discovered data is relevant to zeroing in on the location of Mr Kohbergers phone at the time of the murders.

But both the defense and the prosecution contend that cellphone pings are key to their cases.

The court battle over this potentially key evidence marks just the latest in a string of delays that continue to delay the start of Mr Kohbergers trial. An Idaho Statesman investigation found that the case has already cost Idaho taxpayers more than $3.6m.

Thursdays hearing ended without a ruling on the motion to compel, and further proceedings are scheduled for 30 May where two DNA experts  Leah Larkin and Bicka Barlow  will testify for the defense.

Workers walk past the demolition of the home in Moscow, Idaho, where the four University of Idaho were killed ( AP )

Another hearing is scheduled for June 27, where attorneys will make arguments about whether the trial should be moved outside of the county where the crime occurred in order to seat an impartial jury. The state has been opposed to the move, while the defense is in favor of it.

Mr Kohberger declined to enter a plea in the case in May 2023, prompting the judge to enter his plea as not guilty on his behalf.

Earlier this year, the Idaho Supreme Court denied a request from the suspected killer for his grand jury indictment to be thrown out, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

A trial date has not yet been set.
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Idaho murder suspect Bryan Kohberger appeared in a Latah County courtroom as part of his defense teams efforts to compel prosecutors to reveal more of the evidence they plan to use in his upcoming trial.

The 29-year-old criminology PhD student is awaiting trial for the stabbing deaths of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, who were killed on November 13, 2022, at their off-campus house in Moscow.

Mr Kohbergers defense team has claimed he was driving around looking at stars at the time of the murders and argue prosecutors have not handed all the evidence over for the defense to review, filing multiple motions to compel since Mr Kohbergers arrest in late 2022.

As Mr Kohberger looked on in silence, his public defender Anne Taylor grilled Moscow Police Detective Lawrence Mowery about a series of records related to cell phone data police plan to use in the case.

Ms Taylor said her team had only learned about the records. which captures police work from 2023 analyzing the phone data, this Wednesday.

The 2022 killing of Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves shook the college town of Moscow, Idaho. ( AP/Monroe County Correctional Facility/Handout )

Those were things that existed for quite some time, is that correct? she asked, later adding, I want to know all the records you relied on, all of the emails, all the conversations you relied on to produce this thing.

During his testimony, Detective Lawrence Mowery pushed back against the suggestion police were hiding something.

He described how the records merely show he was called upon in the spring of 2023 to analyze phone records using a data visualization program called CASTViz, information that was later presented to a grand jury.

The detective said that even though he didnt save his work, the analysis could be quickly recreated.

I didnt delete anything, he said, adding, I can open the software, drag the CDRs [call detail records] back in, and in a very short time its generated.

A worker rakes debris during a pause in the use of heavy equipment to demolish the house where four University of Idaho students were killed in 2022 on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho ( AP )

The hearing also concerned police efforts to look for evidence on Idaho transit cameras and windy.com, a weather site that temporarily displays shots from state transit feeds. The detective said that while police consulted these feeds as potential sources of evidence, they didnt retain anything of value in the case.

Thursdays hearing ended without a ruling on the motion to compel, and further proceedings are scheduled for 30 May, which will feature testimony from Leah Larkin and Bicka Barlow, two DNA experts called by the defense.

The wider evidence at issue in the case reportedly includes dashcam footage, video and audio recordings of a white sedan at the crime scene, and lab testing results  information police used to arrest Kohberger seven weeks after the murders.

Kohbergers attorney said at a hearing earlier this month that the prosecutors are withholding evidence that the defense team should be privy to.

The state knows full well what they have and what theyre withholding from us, Ms Taylor said at the hearing. We dont know what theyre going to show, but we know they exist.

Bryan Kohbergers defense team is arguing prosecutors are witholding evidence, which they deny ( Getty )

The prosecution has argued its doing all it can to share evidence but is partially being delayed by federal rules, given the FBIs involvement in the underlying investigation.

The characterization that were just consciously withholding information to frustrate the defense is utter nonsense, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said at a hearing earlier this month.

They [the FBI] have been good partners, but they have their own rules to work with, he added.

Kohberger was linked to the murders that rocked the college town of Moscow through DNA evidence, cell phone data, an eyewitness account and his white Hyundai Elantra.

But his team claims their client was out driving in the early morning hours of the night of the murders, and that he was in Pullman, which is about eight miles west of the 1122 King Road home.

Mr Kohberger was out driving in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022; as he often did to hike and run and/or see the moon and stars, Ms Taylor, the defense attorney, wrote in the court documents. He drove throughout the area south of Pullman, Washington, west of Moscow, Idaho including Wawawai Park.

Prosecutors are likely to use cell phone data to argue Bryan Kohberger is responsible for the 2022 murders at an off-campus house ( Getty Images )

In May 2023, Kohberger declined to enter a plea in the case, prompting the judge to enter his plea as not guilty.

Earlier this year, the Idaho Supreme Court denied a request from Kohberger for his grand jury indictment to be thrown out, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct. But the Judge denied the motion.

Prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

A trial date has not yet been set.
 Close Chad Daybells daughter testifies in his murder trial

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A new rebuttal witness for the prosecution testified that Chad Daybells son Garth had told him how he found his dead mother Tammy Daybell, which is different from what Garth told the court at his fathers triple murder trial earlier this week.

Shortly after the defense rested on Thursday, Jason Abegelen, who worked with Garth at a haunted house, recalled that Garth told him how he found his mother dead in the bedroom and that his father was not there.

But Garth had testified that in the early morning hours of October 19, 2019, his father woke him up to help after finding the mother-of-five dead and halfway off the bed on the floor, tangled up in sheets.

Daybell, 55, is on trial for the death of Tammy, and the murders of Lori Vallows two children, Tylee Ryan, 16, and JJ Vallow, seven. Two weeks after Tammys death, Daybell and Vallow married on a beach in Hawaii.

It was only after the children were reported missing  and authorities began delving into the couples bizarre cult beliefs  that questions were asked about Tammys death and her body was exhumed for an autopsy. It was determined she had died of asphyxia and Daybell was charged with her murder, as well as the murders of Vallows children, who were found buried in Daybells Idaho backyard nine months after they went missing.

Prosecutors say Daybell and Vallow justified the three killings by creating an apocalyptic belief system, which was part of an elaborate scheme to eliminate any obstacles from their life.

But Daybells attorney claims he was manipulated by Vallow, who was convicted of the murders last year and received three life sentences.

Like Vallow, Daybell did not testify in his defense.

Closing arguments are expected to be next week and then the case will be in the hands of the jury.

If convicted, Daybell faces the death penalty or life in prison.
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The mother of Jennifer Dulos, who vanished from her Connecticut home five years ago, says she believes Michelle Troconis knows where her body was dumped.

Dulos, a 50-year-old mother of five disappeared from her home in New Canaan on 24 May 2019. Investigators believe she was attacked and killed by her estranged husband Fotis Dulos. Her body has never been found.

Fotis Dulos killed himself in January 2020 while he faced murder, kidnapping and other charges in the case.

Troconis, his 49-year-old live-in girlfriend, was found guilty by a jury of conspiracy to commit murder and other charges.

She had pleaded not guilty and insisted she did not know Fotis was doing anything nefarious as she watched him toss garbage bags into random bins, or as she helped him write up a timeline of their whereabouts on the day Jennifer disappeared.

Michelle Troconis listens as a verdict of guilty on all counts is read on the final day jury deliberation for her criminal trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn. Friday, March 1, 2024 ( AP )

Gloria Farber, Jennifer Duloss mother, told WTNH that she believed absolutely lied to investigators and does not believe she will ever tell the family what happened to her body.

I think she knows where Jennifer is, said Ms Farber.

She told the outlet that she can still not believe what happened to her daughter.

This undated contributed photo, courtesy of the Farber family, shows Jennifer Farber Dulos. ( AP )

I dont know what made him just absolutely go off the rails, she continued.

Ms Farber now has custody of the couples five children, who live with her in New York City.

I think about her every day. She poured all her wisdom and all her joy into her children, she added:

Jennifer Dulos' mother, Gloria Farber, testifies during Michelle Troconis' trial at Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn., Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024 ( Hearst Connecticut Media )

Her life was cut short, but she, in that short life, became a great person. She amazed me, she always amazed me.

Troconis faces up to 50 years behind bars when she is sentenced.
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An Army soldier has been charged with the murder of his eight-month-old daughter, who prosecutors allege was beaten to death while in his care.

Medical examiners in North Carolina ruled infant Misty Delatorres death a homicide not long after she died last year but no one had been charged over it until this month.

Over the past year, Mistys mother and grandmother have tirelessly fought for justice for the eight-month-old, who suffered fatal head injuries while with her father, Sgt Gabriel Ceville, a Fort Liberty soldier with the 82nd Airborne Division.

Her grandmother, Misty Bray, told ABC11 that the baby was so innocent and didnt even have her first tooth yet when she died.

"I just want justice. I did. I just want my grandbabys death -- someone needs to be held accountable," Ms Bray said.

Sgt Ceville faces charges of unpremeditated murder, involuntary manslaughter and domestic violence; however, the domestic violence charge is not related to his baby daughter, but to another family member, according to the outlet.

Two weeks before Mistys death, her parents were involved in a custody battle, that saw both parents sharing custody over their daughter.

The new Fort Liberty sign is displayed outside the base on Friday, June 2, 2023 in Fort Liberty, North Carolina ( AP )

During a preliminary court hearing on Wednesday, the military prosecutor claimed that Sgt Ceville sent text messages to his wife that his head hurt, and that Misty was screaming, according to the outlet.

Shortly after, he texted her the baby was unresponsive and had thrown up, with 911 records showing he reported that his daughter was not breathing.

Misty was airlifted to UNC Hospital, where she died a few days later, ABC11 says. An autopsy ruled that she died of blunt force trauma and the manner of death a homicide.

Her father stated that she had not been feeling well, and she had vomited, the autopsy report stated, obtained by WRAL, which also said that Misty was home alone with her father. [Ceville] slapped her on the back to clear her airway.

However, the medical examiners report also stated that Mistys injuries were highly associated with abusive head trauma in infants.

The prosecutors said that, according to doctors, Misty had severe brain and eye injuries comparable to a bad car crash, with so many haemorrhages they could not count, local reporters say.

"Its a step, but its far from justice. I cannot grieve properly for my baby because justice has not been served," Mistys mother, Alina, told the outlet after finding out the charges, adding that she had to remotely listen in to the hearing because it was short notice and she lives in California.

"It is unbelievable that so much violence was inflicted onto an innocent 8-month-old baby, she added. My daughters murderer is walking free, and we will not stop until that monster is put away."

A spokesperson for The Armys Office of Special Trial Counsel (OSTC) told Law & Crime that after a preliminary investigation, the OSTC preferred the charges against Mr Ceville in connection to his daughters death.

They also explained that the preliminary hearing was required before the referral of charges and specifications for trial by General Court-Martial pursuant to Article 32 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

Mr Ceville is able to remain out on his own recognizance as he waits to hear from the military court if his case moves forward for trial by General Court-Martial.

The soldier told WRAL that he knew he was under investigation, but denied harming his child.

The Independent has contacted the Armys Office of Special Trial Counsel for further information and how to obtain contact details for Mr Cevilles legal representatives.
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A police officer shot dead a tiny blind and deaf dog in Missouri, after being called out to help with a reported wounded animal. Now people are demanding the officer lose his job over the incident.

Teddy, a 13lb shih-tzu, was in Sturgeon, Missouri, when officers were called to a out on Sunday. Five-year-old Teddy was born deaf, but had only lost his sight around two years ago, his owner said.

Police bodycam footage showed an officer, identified by local media as Myron Woodson, chasing Teddy around a large field and making several unsuccessful attempts to catch him. The City of Sturgeon later claimed the officer believed Teddy had been infected with rabies.

Based on the behaviour exhibited by the dog, believing the dog to be severely injured or infected with rabies, and as the officer feared being bitten and being infected with rabies, the SPD officer felt that his only option was to put the animal down, a post on the citys Facebook read.

The officers decision sparked fury online with people taking to the small towns Facebook page to describe the local police as a joke, as well as disgusting and disappointing after attempting to justify the officers actions.

Officials, after just four days, determined the officer was not wrong in his actions.

Teddy, a disabled Shih Tzu was shot dead by a police officer ( Nicholas Hunter/KOMU )

It was later learned that Teddys behaviour was due to the fact that he was both deaf and blind.

Responding to the Citys explanation of the incident, many social media users piled in. UNACCEPTABLE!!!!! Sturgeon Police force is seriously a joke, one user wrote. Another went further, writing: This is a disgrace. The officer involved needs to be immediately removed from duty and charged with felony animal abuse.

I pray the owner sues the city, the mayor, the officer and the department. I will be filing a complaint with the state attorney generals office. The entire city council should resign after hiring this man.

Officer Woodson had shot the animal in order to protect against possible injury to citizens, another Facebook post from the city read. Outraged citizens once again blasted the force and authorities.

What a disgusting and disappointing response to abuse of power and neglect of an animal, wrote one person.

If its within his authority to shoot a dog who is not a clear threat to anyone then no person or animal is safe in our town. I am so beyond disappointed in this city, said another.

Teddys excited behaviour was due to the fact that he was deaf and blind ( City of Sturgeon/Facebook )

Bodycam footage released by the Sturgeon Police Department showed the moments before the defenceless animal was shot.

Officer Woodson is seen getting out of his car and putting on black plastic gloves. Over the course of the next three minutes he attempts to capture Teddy, who is walking round the field  his head slightly lopsided  something that the officer believes indicates that the dogs neck is broken.

Come on baby, were gonna take you to get help, he is heard to say, before Teddy once again wriggles out of the capture pole.

It is not known what caused officer Woodsons attitude to change, but moments later a shot is heard to ring out. The graphic part of the footage has been redacted.

In response to the citys second statement, another social media user added: That dog was injured and confused, not rabid. He wasnt even barking or being aggressive. He didnt even yelp when the catch pole was put on him. I am just in shock over this.

Others questioned the calibre of officers being hired in Sturgeon, with one person writing: If your officers are that afraid of a little dog wandering around... maybe, just maybe, they shouldnt be police officers.

According to his owner, Nicholas Hunter, despite Teddys lack of sight or hearing, he was full of life. On the day of the incident he had escaped from his kennel and his collar had slipped off.

A video shared with ABC 17 News by Mr Hunter, showed his encounter with the officer, though rabies is not mentioned.

Mr Hunter said Teddy was up to date on all of his vaccinations, including one for rabies.

The officer was going strictly based off the fact that the dog walks with his head sideways due to him being deaf and blind, he said.

Mr Hunter told ABC 17 that he had already filed a lawsuit against the city, and that despite the citys statement on Facebook, he had not been contacted personally by the mayors office. He said that the statement had contradicted everything that he had previously spoken about with officer Woodson.

The Independent has contacted the city authorities for a response.
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Elon Musk has warned that artificial intelligence could render almost all jobs obsolete  but all might not be as bleak as it seems.

Mr Musk, 52, shared that gloomy premonition at VivaTech 2024 in Paris as AIs burgeoning capabilities continue to face criticsim.

Probably none of us will have a job, the Tesla CEO said candidly while harnessing the power of his webcam to speak remotely at the tech conference on Thursday.

Before the audience could fret about being out of work indefinitely thanks to semi-sentient machines, Mr Musk hinted that jobs which require creativity and emotional intelligence may still be safe.

If you want to do a job thats kinda like a hobby, you can do a job, he said.

But otherwise, AI and the robots will provide any goods and services that you want, he added.

While AI might render the need for human labor useless, there could be a silver lining to Mr Musks vision of the future. He said that the government would need to implement universal high income, opposed to universal basic income (UBI).

Elon Musk spoke virtually at Paris VivaTech 2024 on Thursday ( Getty Images )

UBI refers to a social welfare programme whereby all adult citizens regularly receive a set amount of income without needing to work.

In some sense, itll be somewhat of a leveller, an equaliser, he said without explicitly describing how.

There would be no shortage of goods or services, he continued.

Depsite being one of the founders and initial board members of Open AI  the company behind ChatGPT  alongside Sam Altman, Mr Musk has become a fierce critic in the debate surrounding the regulation of AI.

Last month, the tech tycoon expressed his fears over superhuman artificial intelligence that is smarter than anyone on Earth, which he insisted could exist next year.

Only its increasing demands for power and a shortage of AI training chips could limit its capability in the near term, Mr Musk said.

Posing an existential question, Mr Musk asked: If the computer and robots can do everything better than you, does your life have meaning?

In a reverse of roles, he predicted that humans will in fact have a purpose: to give AI meaning.

Mr Musk also issued a warning about limiting the amount of social media that children can see, explaining that theyre being programmed by a dopamine-maximising AI.
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A Missouri state lawmakers daughter and son-in-law were killed by Haitian gang members who ambushed their missionary groups compound on Thursday evening.

The coupleDavid Lloyd III, 23, and Natalie Lloyd, 21made desperate calls as they were being held hostage inside a home on the compound but never made it out alive, their Oklahoma-based group, Missions in Haiti, wrote on Facebook. The groups Haitian director, 20-year-old Jude Montis, was also killed in the attack.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces, Natalie Lloyds father, Missouri state Representative Ben Baker, said. Ive never felt this kind of pain.

David Lloyd IIIs father said that gang members arrived at the Missions in Haiti compound in trucks, stealing cars and beating up his son inside the home. After they left, another gang arrivedand the situation turned deadly.

Natalie Lloyd (left) and David Lloyd III (right) were killed in a gang attack in Haiti on Thursday evening ( Natalie Lloyd/Facebook )

And then all of a sudden another group pulls up and thats where things got foggy, David Lloyd Jr. told The New York Times. I was talking to him when that next group pulled up. And he was telling me that he got hit in the head by a pistol. Hes like, Ive got to go now. Theres a bunch of them here again.

In a Facebook post before the trio died, Missions in Haiti said that gang members had opened fire on the compound, shooting out all the windows.

They are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot, the group said, shortly before announcing the deaths. Their lives are in danger.

The Lloyds made desperate calls as they were being held hostage inside a home on the compound but never made it out alive ( Natalie Lloyd/Facebook )

Since February, Haiti has been facing powerful criminal gangs that now control the capital city. Thousands of people have been injured, killed or forced to flee amid the takeover.

This week, President Joe Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto to the White House for a three-day visit. Kenya is working with the United Nations to deploy forces to Haiti amid this crisis. About 1,000 Kenyan officers will arrive in Haiti in the coming days to help quell the chaos, along with additional forces from several other countries.
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Hundreds of Harvard students in graduation robes walked out of their commencement on Thursday in solidarity with Palestine, and the 13 students who had been barred from the ceremony over protest encampments.

Graduating students from the top Ivy League school stood up during the commencement ceremony on Thursday and walked out chanting Free, free Palestine while others shouted, Let them walk, let them walk, during the ceremony in reference to the 13 graduates who were not allowed to receive their diplomas alongside their classmates.

During a student address, senior Shruthi Kumar used the moment to declare that this semester, our freedom of speech and our expressions of solidarity became punishable, according to the Associated Press.

She also said she was recognising the 13 undergraduates in the class of 2024 who will not graduate today, that received cheers and clapping from other graduates.

Graduating students chant as they walk out in protest over the 13 students who have been exempt from graduating ( AP )

I am deeply disappointed by the intolerance for freedom of speech and the right to civil disobedience on campus.

She explained that over 1,500 students had petitioned, and nearly 500 staff and faculty members had spoken up about the sanctions placed on them.

This is about civil rights and upholding democratic principles, she said. The students had spoken. The faculty had spoken. Harvard, do you hear us?

The ceremony also heard from Maria Ressa, a journalist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a long-standing advocate of freedom of speech, who spoke as the commencement speaker.

Harvard, you are being tested, she said. The campus protests are testing everyone in America Protests give voice; they shouldnt be silenced.

Graduating students with messages supporting Gaza on their mortarboards during commencement in Harvard Yard ( AP )

The graduation ceremony took place in the historic Harvard Yard, where pro-Gaza protests and an encampment was established last month.

The camp was disbanded on 14 May after the university announced that protestors had agreed to end the encampment.

At the start of the week, the faculty announced it had restored the 13 students to a list of those eligible to graduate. However, Harvards governing board later overruled this after the students were found to have violated the universitys policies by their conduct during the encampment protest.

Students graduating hold up a Palestinian flag duirng the graduation ceremony in Harvard Yard, at Harvard University on Thursday ( AP )

The board said in a statement on Wednesday that the students were not in good standing so they could not responsibly vote to award them degrees at this time.

In coming to this determination, we note that the express provisions of the Harvard College Student Handbook state that students who are not in good standing are not eligible for degrees, the Harvard Corporation said, but added there was a possibility of appeal.

Ms Kumar announced that she would be walking out as she could not in good conscience celebrate when their families are in pain.

A swarm of students also walked out and reconvened at a Methodist church near Harvard Square for a peoples commencement, and spoke about those who had lost their lives in Gaza, the New York Times reported.

Harvard University students pass protestors while making their way into Harvard Yard for commencement on Thursday ( AP )

At the ceremony an audience member also held up an Israeli flag while half a dozen or so people waved Palestinian flags.

A small plane also circled above the graduates, trailing an Israeli and US flag and a truck was parked outside the campus with a billboard bearing some pro-Palestinian protestors names and images under a banner that said Harvards Leading Antisemites.

Protests have swept US college campuses since the 7 October Hamas attacks on Israel, which killed 1,200 people. The ensuing Israeli attacks on Gaza have killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to the latest figures.

Demonstrations and encampments on campuses have seen other institutions like USC cancelling their main commencement stage ceremony last month.

The protests and encampments have led to 3,000 arrests at universities in the US.
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Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to undergo a medical procedure Friday and transfer his power - after facing furious backlash for his previous treatment done in secret without evening informing the White House.

Pentagon officials announced that Mr Austin was set to have an elective and minimally invasive follow-up procedure at Walter Reed Medical Center for a bladder issue. The treatment is non-surgical.

The Secretary has determined he will be temporarily unable to perform his functions and duties during the procedure, so Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks will assume the functions and duties of the Secretary of Defense and serve as the Acting Secretary of Defense, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said in a statement.

The bladder issue is separate from the cancer diagnosis, officials said.

It was that cancer treatment that found him in hot water earlier this year as he was taken to the hospital and didnt inform other Pentagon officials, the White House or President Joe Biden.

On Jan. 1, Mr. Austin was hospitalized at Walter Reed following a surgery for his prostate cancer weeks earlier. He was eventually transferred to the ICU and remained there for several days. His treatment was not disclosed to Mr Biden or the public for several days, sparking a backlash throughout Washington, DC.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin speaks during a press briefing at the Pentagon on May 20 ( AP )

In February, Mr Austin was hauled before Congress for a hearing about his secret treatment.

The Defense Secretary said command and control authority had always been in the correct hands during his hospital stay, but admitted the handing over of his duties to a deputy was done in the dark. Republicans pounced on Mr Austin during the hearing over his failure to notify.

Mr Secretary, who will be held accountable for this embarrassment? Rep. Jim Banks asked, prompting Mr Austin to note that he took full responsibility for his actions. He went on to quote two leading propaganda outfits in China and Russia which portrayed the situation as signs of chaos within the US government.

Our adversaries should fear us. What youve done is embarrassed us, the chairman went on to claim.

His remarks were largely followed by emotionless acknowledgments from the Pentagon chief and were more directly refuted by Democrats on the panel, who rallied to Mr Austins defense.
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Theres a wild new A-lister on the block roaming near the Hollywood Hills  this star, however, isnt human.

Los Angeles residents have reportedly spotted a mountain lion roaming around Griffith Park, home to the iconic Hollywood sign.

The idyllic spot, which has been featured in 2016s Oscar-winning musical La La Land, on the eastern side of the Santa Monica Mountains was the same stomping ground as P-22, or Puma-22.

The iconic big cat was branded the Brad Pitt of mountain lions, garnering overnight fame after being pictured in front of the Hollywood sign and appearing in National Geographic magazine.

But after suffering from illness in 2022, P-22 had to be euthanized.

The latest spotting has locals hopeful it can provide an impact about how to live with local wildlife and become more than a big cat living large in the Hollywood Hills, Beth Pratt, California Executive Director of the National Wildlife Federation, told Huffington Post.

Exciting news! We have been getting some reports of a mountain lion sighted in Griffith Park. The @SantaMonicaMtns biologists have been alerted and are investigating.



Please give the cat space if you see him-we are trying to avoid for now people trying to photograph him -lights pic.twitter.com/QQeIDpClr6  Beth Pratt (@bethpratt) May 19, 2024

Experts are currently investigating the apparent presence new mountain lion, after the wild animal was spotted roaming around a car park with the Hollywood sign in the background.

He is a beautiful, beautiful animal, Vladimir Polumiskov, who took a video of the beast, told the Los Angeles Times. Mr Polumiskov says he returned to the spot for a second time, and to his surprise, the suspected male mountain lion was still there.

However, NWF has asked the public to err on the side of caution as it is currently unclear if the new lion is camera shy  unlike P-22.

Ms Pratt said that biologists are now looking into investigating the sighting.

Please give the cat space if you see him-we are trying to avoid for now people trying to photograph him  lights and sounds from cameras could impact this cats behavior as we dont know if he is as comfortable in front of the cameras as P-22, she wrote on X.

Very exciting to contemplate another mountain lion may be calling Griffith Park home! Long live P-22, Ms Pratt concluded.

As many as 15 lions might roam the Santa Monica Mountains, estimates suggest
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Weekly Ozempic injections could dramatically reduce the risk of kidney complications, heart issues and even death in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, according to a major new study.

More than one in seven Americans  approximately 37 million  are affected by chronic kidney disease, the National Institutes of Health states. And about one in three people with diabetes also have chronic kidney disease, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While the disease has no cure, weekly injections of blockbuster drugs such as Novo Nordisks Ozempic and Wegovy could slash the risk of severe outcomes, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on Friday finds.

Its all thanks to Ozempics active ingredient: semaglutide.

The compound is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels.

In advanced stages of chronic kidney disease, the organs become so damaged that they struggle to filter blood. The build-up of fluid and waste in the blood can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

An Ozempic needle injection pen, used by patients for one type of semaglutide ( PA )

Research shows that injecting semaglutide decreases the risk of severe outcomes from diabetic kidney disease by about 24 per cent.

This is as good as it gets, Dr Katherine Tuttle, a professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and an author of the study, told The New York Times.

Novo Nordisk, which funded the trial, is seeking approval from the US Food and Drug Administration to update Ozempics label to say it can also be used to reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease or complications in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Around 3,500 people across 28 countries living with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease were part of the trial. Half were given weekly 1mg injections of Ozempic; the other half a placebo.

Participants were followed for an average of three and a half years  with the findings so significant that the trial, which was supposed to be up to five years long, ended early.

Severe outcomes  including significant loss of kidney function, kidney failure and death  occurred 331 times among those given Ozempic, compared with 410 events among those who received the placebo.

Now, we have a highly effective therapy that reduces things that really matter to patients, families and communities: keeping their kidney function, preserving life and reducing the rates of cardiovascular events, Dr Tuttle said.

While not officially licensed as a weight loss treatment, drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy have been touted as permanent cures for obesity. Wegovy has been an FDA-approved treatment for chronic weight management since June 2021.

Semaglutides ability to suppress appetite and slow digestion has made it a favourite among Hollywood stars looking to shed the pounds quickly.
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Donald Trump has bragged that he was as hot as a pistol as he indulged in his own popularity both before and after becoming US president while at his rally in the Bronx.

Speaking at a rally in New York for the first time in eight years, 3,500 people gathered in Crotona Park, South Bronx, on Thursday evening to listen to the Republican presidential candidate.

Drifting away from another anecdote, Mr Trump boasted to the audience about just how hot he was, repeating the word five times within a 30 second stint.

Donald Trump told 3,500 people at his rally in the Bronx that he was hot as a pistol on Thursday ( AP )

I was doing great, I was sort of like a hot guy. I was hot as a pistol. I think Im hotter than I am now and I became president, the ex-president told the crowd.

I asked somebody, was I hotter before or hotter now. I dont know Who the hell knows? Who the hell cares?, he added.

Making a neat segue to his own political prowess, Mr Trump continued: You have to always keep moving forward. And when its your time youve got to know its your time.

And I said to myself in terms of politics, You know what: we did so well in number one and we did even better in number two weve got to do it again. Im not doing it for myself, Im doing it to make America great again, he added.

For most of the rally, Mr Trump largely played the hits from his 2016 presidential campaign, calling for Hillary Clinton to be locked up, quoting anti-migrant fable The Snake and telling his supporters that the subway is worse than a third world country.

A sea of Maga supporters sport their red caps at Donald Trumps New York rally on Thursday ( AP )

Crotona Park is among New Yorks most diverse areas.

More than 56 per cent of the Bronxs citizens are Hispanic, and a further 28 per cent are Black, according to latest census data.

The biggest negative impact [of illegal immigration] is against our Black population and our Hispanic population, who are losing their jobs, losing their housing, losing everything they can lose, Mr Trump claims.

He is seemingly attempting to make inroads with ethnic minority voters, hoping it can bolster his support in traditionally Democratic strongholds and swing states.
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Several Democrats have claimed that the Supreme Courts conservative majority is out of control after a second flag carried by January 6 rioters was seen flying outside Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alitos house.

Mr Alito is facing further backlash following revelations that an Appeal to Heaven flag was flown outside his New Jersey vacation home on multiple occasions during the summer of 2023. It comes just a week after an upside down American flag  synonymous with Stop the Steal protests  was discovered outside Mr Alitos Virginia home weeks after the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021.

Now, Democrats have dismissed the idea that the erection of the flag was chance and say a pattern is emerging, further highlighting the politicization of the current court, which is supposed to be the most impartial arm of government in politics.

The far-right symbol, also known as the Pine Tree Flag was carried by pro-Trump rioters in the attack on the US Capitol in 2021 in their efforts to overturn the election.

Designed by a George Washington staffer, Colonel Joseph Reed, in the 18th century, it dates back to the Revolutionary War and is a symbol of staunchly religious, conservative Christians.

The Pine Tree flag seen outside Mr Alitos property (top right) was displayed by some rioters at the January 6 insurrection ( Getty Images )

Democrats are now casting doubts on Mr Alitos judicial ethics, claiming hes succumbing to his personal views and political bias. Justice Clarence Thomas has also made headlines this week for seemingly arguing that the Supreme Court should not be policing racial gerrymandering.

We have an out of control Supreme Court majority, Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, told The Hill.

Mr Thomas and Mr Alito were both criticised last September by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for accepting lavish gifts and vacations from their powerful, billionaire friends.

Frustration with the court in the sense that it is illegitimate is extremely high, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) told the outlet.

Compared to 20 years ago, you never really heard about that as an issue. There was a sense that the courts above politics, theyre calling the balls and strikes, and thats completely gone, he added.

Mr Alito blamed his wife Martha-Ann Alito (right) for the erecting of the upside down flag ( Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Last week, The New York Times uncovered that a flagpole on Mr Alitos front lawn at a property in Virginia had flown an upside-down American flag in late 2020 and early 2021, in the days after Joe Biden took office.

The symbol is also used by some Maga supporters to contest the US presidential election results in 2020, which saw Joe Biden beat Mr Trump.

Photos taken by allegedly alarmed neighbours show the upside-down flag flying on Mr Alitos lawn in Alexandria, Virginia, on January 17, 2021.

Mr Alito told the newspaper that he had no involvement whatsoever in the flying of the flag, adding that it was placed by Mrs Alito.

Democrats are contesting his claims as the justice attempts to distance himself from controversy.

The first instance of the American flag in distress mode [Alito] dismissed as a chance indiscretion by his wife who was emotional about a confrontation with a neighbor, Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) told The Hill.

The second one really shows a pattern, he added.

Democrats believe that the stories about the flags will fuel calls to reform the Supreme Court.

US public sentiment of the Supreme Court hit the floor according to Pew Research Centers findings last summer. More than half Americans (54 percent) express an unfavourable opinion of the high court  a decline of 26 per cent since 2020.
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US Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is in trouble over a flag yet again, this time for an appeal to heaven flag seen flying at his beach house in New Jersey.

The flag was seen at the home last summer, according to The New York Times, which also reported that an upside-down American flag was seen at the Alexandria, Virginia, home of Justice Alito less than two weeks after the Capitol riot in Washington, DC.

The upside-down US flag is a sign of a nation in distress and the appeal to heaven flag has in recent years become a symbol for support of Christian nationalism and the baseless claim that the 2020 election was stolen from former president Donald Trump.

Some rioters on January 6, 2021 carried the inverted American flag or the appeal to heaven flag during the insurrection. The appeal to heaven flag shows a green pine on a white field and the use of the flags at the homes of Justice Alito has intensified concerns regarding his impartiality as the court hears cases related to the January 6 attack as well as Mr Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Justice Alito is yet to comment on the appeal to heaven flag seen at his beach house.

This is the history of the flag and what it has been seen to symbolize in recent years:

The flags beginnings

People carry an "Appeal To Heaven" flag as they gather at Independence Mall to support president Donald Trump during a visit to the National Constitution Center to participate in the ABC News town hall, on 15 September 2020 in Philadelphia ( AP )

The origins of the flag go back to the Revolutionary War, according to Ted Kaye, the secretary for the North American Vexillological Association, an organization that studies flags and their meaning.

Six vessels under the leadership of George Washington flew the flag in 1775 as they sailed to confront British ships. It subsequently became the Massachusetts maritime flag the following year until 1971.

The pine tree on the white flag was intended to symbolize the strength of the colonies in New England and the written an appeal to heaven message was rooted in the belief that God would help the colonists defeat tyranny.

Why the flag is used today

An appeal to heaven flag is seen as crowds arrive for the Stop the Steal' rally on January 6, 2021, in Washington, DC ( Getty Images )

There are multiple reasons people use the flag today  some use it to show their identification with a patriotic movement that focuses on the founding fathers and the American Revolution, Jared Holt at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue think tank, said. The London-based think tank tracks online disinformation and extremism.

Another reason some fly the appeal to heaven flag is to show their support for Christian nationalism.

In 2021, Paul Miller, a professor of the practice of international affairs at Georgetown University as well as a research fellow at the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, wrote for Christianity Today that Christian nationalism is the belief that the American nation is defined by Christianity and that the government should take active steps to keep it that way.

Mr Holt said those using the flag often argue for more intolerant and restrictive forms of government aligned with a specific religious philosophy.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
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Donald Trump has made history as the first criminally convicted US president. He has been found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records as part of a conspiracy to corruptly influence the 2016 presidential election.

He sat emotionless as the jury convicted him on 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in the run-up to the 2016 election. Ms Daniels says that they had a sexual encounter in 2006, which Trump denies.

The jury delivered the verdict late on 31 May after deliberating for almost two days at the Manhattan court.

The Republican presidential candidate completed a virtual interview with Manhattan Criminal Courts probation department on Monday, a mandatory requirement before he is sentenced on July 11 by New York judge Juan Merchan after being found guilty on all counts at his hush money trial last month.

Could Trump go to prison? And what potential prison time is he facing in his three other criminal cases?

The hush money case  up to 20 years

The 34 charges were stepped up from misdemeanors to class E felonies for the trial because prosecutors alleged the crimes were carried out in an effort to commit or conceal another crime.

Each of the 34 counts carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison, however New York imposes a 20-year sentencing cap for this type of offense.

However, such sentences are usually only doled out in circumstances like previous felony convictions or based on the seriousness of the crime.

Given that Trump has no prior criminal record and his crimes are non-violent, he could face no jail time. Instead, New York Judge Juan Merchan could impose other penalties such as fines, probation or conditional discharge in lieu of jail time.

The prosecution and the defense are still to give their recommendations on sentencing. The defense was due to give its recommendation on June 13. On June 10 Trump sat for a virtual interview with a probation officer as part of the sentencing procedure. Reports said the interview lasted half an hour.

Some commentators have suggested the prosecution could ask for jail time although others have suggested Trumps age and lack of previous convictions make this unlikely.

The classified documents case  up to 450 years

In one of two federal criminal cases, Trump is charged with willfully retaining secrets and obstructing justice over his alleged mishandling of classified documents after leaving the White House.

In August 2022, the FBI raided Trumps Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida, and found boxes of classified documents that he should have returned to the National Archives.

In that case, the former president faces a maximum of 10 years in prison per count of willfully retaining secrets and 20 years per count of obstructing justice.

Donald Trump appears alongside his aide and co-defendant Walt Nauta and attorneys Chris Kise and Todd Blanche in Miami, Florida, in June 2023 ( Reuters )

While the latter offence comes with a higher maximum sentence, it is the former which should have Trump more worried. Convictions of wilful and/or reckless retention of classified information frequently result in prison sentences of several years or more. Trump faces more than 30 of those charges.

The trial was provisionally set for 20 May, although Judge Aileen Cannon subsequently suspended it indefinitely and pretrial hearings relating to it continue to be dominated by baffling orders and courtroom spats.

The federal election interference case  up to 55 years

The Justice Departments second case against Trump accuses him with efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election in his favor.

In this case, he faces charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy against Americans right to vote in free elections and attempting to block the certification of the election results by summoning a mob to attack the US Capitol on 6 January 2021.

Should he be convicted on either point, he faces steep maximum prison sentences for each count, in particular the obstruction of proceeding charges, which carry 20-year maximum terms.

Donald Trump claimed he witnessed filth and decay in Washington DC after his arraignment in early August 2023 ( Getty )

The trial, in this case, was provisionally set for 4 March but it has been plagued by delays while Trumps presidential immunity argument plays out before the US Supreme Court.

The Georgia racketeering case  up to 76.5 years

In Georgia, Trump is charged with his efforts to overturn the 2020 election in the state.

Donald Trump appears in a police booking mugshot released by the Fulton County Sheriffs Office in Georgia in August 2023 ( Reuters )

The sprawling RICO case, brought by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis against Trump and a string of his allies, is unique in that it is the only case where the charges carry minimum prison terms.

The most serious felony charge  of violating Georgias RICO statute (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations)  carries a minimum prison term of five years, with a maximum of 20 behind bars.
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Former president Donald Trump is reportedly considering Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton to be the Republican nominee for vice president in this years general election, a move that could outrage some Democrats but would bring an experienced, low-drama personality onto the GOP ticket.

According to The New York Times, Mr Trump began discussing Mr Cotton as a vice presidential contender in recent weeks, adding to a mix of candidates that include three other Republicans from the upper chamber: Marco Rubio of Florida, Tim Scott of South Carolina and Ohios JD Vance.

Mr Trump has also discussed North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and former surgeon turned Housing and Urban Development secretary Ben Carson.

Though he has declined to state who he is actively considering, he has praised Mr Carson, Mr Rubio, Mr Vance, as well as one House member  New York Representative Elise Stefanik  as candidates who would do a really fantastic job in the position, which has very few codified responsibilities.

Each of those potential picks would likely cause little stir among Republicans loyal to Mr Trump, as the possible candidates have all spent the last few years expressing fealty to the twice-impeached, quadruply-indicted ex-president even as he has endured financial setbacks and multiple criminal cases against him.

All of them also spent at least one day attending Mr Trumps criminal trial in New York City, where they attacked the prosecutor, judge and witnesses in the case to aid Mr Trump in evading a gag order that has been placed on him during the proceedings.

But according to the Times, Mr Trump has praised Mr Cottons skills as a television guest, as well as his service in Iraq and Afghanistan as a US Army officer.

Mr Cotton also would provide Mr Trump with an opportunity to stoke liberal outrage, as he became an object of scorn among Democrats for a June 2020 op-ed published in the Times in which he argued that Mr Trump should deploy federal troops to put down civil rights protests in the wake of the murder of George Floyd by a group of Minneapolis, Minnesota, police officers.

If the Arkansas senator knows he is on Mr Trumps short-list, he isnt confirming it publicly. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, he said his conversations with the ex-president have been about what its going to take to win this election in November  to elect President Trump to another term in the White House and elect a Republican Congress, so we can begin to repair the damage that Joe Bidens presidency has inflicted on this country.

For his part, Mr Trump told a Milwaukee television station that he would be making a selection probably not too much before the convention, referring to the Republican National Convention set to start in Milwaukee on 15 July.
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Joe Biden said months ago that a major Israeli offensive in the city of Rafah, where more than a million displaced Palestinians have been sheltering from the war, would be a red line that would force him to reconsider US support for the longtime ally.

Since then, more than 800,000 have fled Israeli bombardment in the southern Gaza city and aid agencies have compared the situation there to hell on earth. And yet, the president has shown no signs of following through on his words.

His administration now faces even greater pressure to act after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel on Friday to immediately halt its military offensive in Rafah in a landmark emergency ruling that invoked the Genocide Convention.

Dr H.A. Hellyer, a scholar of security studies and the Middle East at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the Biden administration risks a massive blow to American credibility, such as it is, if it fails to support the courts order.

The ICJ ruling is not in the abstract, nor is it in need of detailed interpretation. Its very clear, he said. This is the highest court in the world, and theyve said any action in Rafah that could bring about the destruction of Palestinians needs to immediately stop. So you either support international law or you dont.

Mr Biden has repeatedly expressed his strong opposition to a major offensive in Rafah, which had become the last refuge for more than a million Palestinians who had fled from the war raging in other parts of Gaza. It is also where most aid agencies are operating.

Magistrates are seen at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as part of South Africa's request on a Gaza ceasefire in The Hague, on May 24, 2024, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Hamas movement. ( AFP via Getty Images )

In a March interview with MSNBC , when asked whether an Israeli invasion of Rafah would be a red line for him, he replied: It is a red line but Im never going to leave Israel. The defense of Israel is still critical.

His officials have repeatedly said the US would not support a major military operation in Gazas southern city without a credible ... executable plan to protect civilians.

Earlier this month, the president went so far as to pause a shipment of heavy weapons bound for Israel as it prepared its attack on the city. But he has not taken any further action to restrict Israeli use of American-made arms despite longstanding US law prohibiting arms transfers to nations that violate international humanitarian law.

Absent any concrete threat of consequences from Mr Biden, Israel has rebuffed the presidents concerns and has launched an attack on Rafah that has forced 800,000 to flee and forced the closure of the main crossing for humanitarian aid into the territory even as famine grips northern Gaza .

Israeli bombardment killed at least 60 Palestinians on Thursday, according to Palestinian health officials, and tanks advanced in the southeast of the city.

Aid agencies on the ground have painted an increasingly apocalyptic picture of the situation.

Suze van Meegan, the Norwegian Refugee Councils emergency response leader in Gaza, described Rafah as three entirely different worlds.

The east is an archetypal war zone, the middle is a ghost town, and the west is a congested mass of people living in deplorable conditions," she said in a statement .

Displaced Palestinians arrive in central Gaza after fleeing from the southern Gaza city of Rafah in Deir al Balah, on May 9, 2024. ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Those descriptions stand in stark contrast to sanitised statements from the White House. National security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters Wednesday that Israels operation in Rafah has been more targeted and limited, and has not involved major military operations into the heart of dense urban areas.

He said there was no mathematical formula for judging the scale of the attack, but added: What were going to be looking at is whether there is a lot of death and destruction from this operation or if it is more precise and proportional.

Dr Hellyer said Mr Bidens red line in Rafah has been broken pretty much every single day since he made that statement as Israel launched a military operation in the city, which has forced the administration into a series of reversals and equivocations.

The only way to keep that red line was for DC to try to reshape it. So it became incredibly squiggly. It became more about not using big, big, big, bombs, and very quickly, but if they do other things, and it is done over a longer period, then they are not going to consider that breaking the red line, he added. Its bizarre.

The State Department did not respond to requests for comment, but when asked about the situation a National Security Spokesperson told The Independent: Weve been clear and consistent on our position on Rafah.

In its ruling on Friday, ICJ President Nawaf Salam said that fears about an operation in Rafah have materialized, and the humanitarian situation is now to be characterized as disastrous.

As well as ordering a halt to the offensive, the court also decreed that Israel must keep the Rafah crossing into Egypt open for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

Benny Gantz, a member of Israels war cabinet, said in response to the ruling: We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for.

Children walk after receiving food, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip April 22, 2024 ( REUTERS )

Fridays ruling is particularly uncomfortable for the Biden administration because it has spent several years promoting the idea of a rules-based order, a term for the use of international law to govern relations between states.

Mr Biden has used the phrase at least 16 times since taking office, and the variation rules-based international order six times, according to a count by The Independent.

The ruling also follows an announcement earlier this week from the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court that he was seeking an arrest warrant for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and defense minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, on charges of crimes against humanity.

The Biden administration hit out at the ruling, claiming that the ICC did not have jurisdiction over the conflict to enforce the warrants.

The president now faces a choice of doubling down and contradicting a second international court in the space of one week, or of enforcing its previously stated red lines and reconsidering US support for Israels devastating war.
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Donald Trump staged his first New York City campaign rally in eight years on Thursday evening and it didnt take long before his speech turned a little weird.

Reminiscing about his earlier life as a luxury real estate tycoon, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee told the crowd in Crotona Park in the South Bronx: Some of the greatest days of my business career were at the toughest times but I enjoyed waking up every single morning and going to battle.

A lot of people say to me today, the toughest business people, people that you know about Could I ask you a question? How do you do it?

Mr Trump continued to pursue this imaginary dialogue, revealing a bizarre question he claimed he always got asked.

I say, Do what? he said.

How do you get up in the morning and put your pants on? Why do you put the pants on?

The former president didnt elaborate on the meaning behind the peculiar anecdote, telling the crowd: Ill explain it to you someday.

Elsewhere in his campaign speech  during a day off from his ongoing hush money trial in Manhattan  Mr Trump told the crowd that he was hot as a pistol and said he was thrilled to be back campaigning in his native, which he modestly claimed to have helped build.

Donald Trump addresses his fans in Crotona Park in the South Bronx, New York City, on Thursday 23 May 2024 ( AP )

If a New Yorker cant save this country, no one can, he declared.

The former president also made the wildly false claim that his signature US-Mexico border wall was just three weeks away from completion when he left the White House. In reality, only a fraction of the barrier had been erected by January 2021.

The former president also repeatedly resorted to his usual anti-migrant rhetoric, promising a major mass deportation operation and to protect police officers against prosecution should he regain the Oval Office in November.

There were also false claims about his administrations record on Black unemployment and his ability to prevent atrocities in the Middle East, praise for Hungarys strongman prime minister Viktor Orban and an attack on New Yorks subway system as being worse than a third world country.

There were even revivals of some of his greatest hits.

A chant of Lock her up! broke out briefly among the crowd when Hillary Clinton was mentioned and Mr Trump again invoked the anti-immigrant song The Snake.
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In 20 days over five weeks, after 22 witnesses and more than 200 documents, Manhattan prosecutors and defense attorneys have rested their cases in Donald Trumps hush money trial.

The former president is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records  misdemeanor crimes on their own, but stepped up to more serious felony charges that Mr Trump committed fraud with the intent to commit or conceal another crime.

Next week, New York Justice Juan Merchan will give jurors crucial instructions that will frame how they think about the testimony and evidence, and they will start deliberating as soon as 29 May, setting in motion what could potentially be the first-ever criminal verdict against a US president.

But to find him guilty of those charged felonies, jurors must find that prosecutors have proven, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Mr Trump not only falsified business records but did so in order to commit or conceal another crime.

Prosecutors will have to walk jurors through the Russian-nesting doll of coverups and crimes within crimes at the heart of a hush money scheme involving tabloid publishers, a Playboy model, an adult film star, White House aides and a disbarred lawyer: Mr Trump violated federal election law, by violating state election conspiracy law, by falsifying records.

Donald Trump sits at the defense table in a criminal courtroom in Manhattan on May 21. ( EPA )

State law says that another crime doesnt necessarily need to have been committed, but prosecutors must prove that Mr Trump made an intent to commit one or to cover it up.

The prosecution has grounded the case in a relatively straightforward narrative: Mr Trumps former attorney Michael Cohen paid $130,000 to Stormy Daniels to prevent her from speaking publicly about having sex with Mr Trump, and then Mr Trump approved a series of reimbursement payments to his fixer that were falsely labeled as legal expenses for a retainer that didnt exist.

Those payments were allegedly covered up across 34 business records: 12 ledger entries, Cohens 11 invoices personally approved by Mr Trump and his associates, and 11 checks, most of which include Mr Trumps Sharpie-inked signature.

That fraud, according to prosecutors, violated state law against a conspiracy to influence an election by unlawful means.

One of those unlawful means, according to the prosecution: Mr Trump conspired with this then-attorney to make what was effectively an excessively large, undisclosed, and illegal campaign donation of $130,000, then covered up in reimbursements spread out over 11 months in an attempt to hide the true nature of the payments. Under state and federal law, that kind of payment would need to be reported to the Federal Election Commission.

Again, prosecutors need only to prove that Mr Trump intended to influence the election through those unlawful means, not that he committed them himself.

Unlawful means doesnt mean criminal. It means violation of the law, according to Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo.

Donald Trump and his attorney Todd Blanche address reporters on May 21. ( POOL/AFP via Getty Images )

Another one of those unlawful means: Mr Trump helped Cohen violate tax law by allegedly approving a payment plan that camouflaged reimbursements as income, double dipped for tax purposes, according to prosecutors.

It was even written down  a document shown in evidence and corroborated by Trump Organization accountant Jeffrey McConney shows handwritten notes from former chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg, doing the math to pay Cohen for reimbursing Ms Daniels, with additional bonuses and other payments, including more than $100,000 to account for the taxes owed on it, all spread out in $35,000 checks in 2017.

Mr Trumps attorneys have argued that conspiring to influence the election was not unlawful  candidates seek to influence elections all the time, they said.

And they argued that there couldnt be any conspiracy in 2017: Mr Trump already won the election.

They could not possibly have promoted President Trumps election because it already happened, defense attorney Emil Bove argued on May 21. The election was over.  These alleged tax crimes, theyre not unlawful means.
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Donald Trump was met with chants of build the wall on Thursday evening as he rehashed his anti-immigrant rhetoric during a campaign rally in the Bronx.

Speaking in Crotona Park in the South Bronx  a Democratic stronghold with a large Hispanic and Black population  the former president baselessly sought to paint migrants from China, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and other nations as a threat to the United States.

In a particularly xenophobic moment, he baselessly claimed that migrants are building an army to attack the US from inside its borders.

You look at these people they are physically fit, theyre 19 to 25, almost everyone is a male, and they look like fighting age, he told the crowd of supporters.

I think theyre building an army. I think they want to get us from within. I think theyre building an army they have something in mind.

He also sought to connect record-level illegal migration to the economic hardship of Black and Hispanic voters, claiming, again without evidence, that migrants were taking jobs away from them.

Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in the Bronx borough of New York ( AP )

We are not going to let these people come in and take our city away from us and take our country away, he said.

African Americans are getting slaughtered. Hispanic Americans are getting slaughtered, he claimed, blaming President Joe Bidens economic agenda for hurting minority voters.

He went on to promise to conduct the largest criminal deportation operation in our countrys history if hes re-elected in November  comments that were met with cheers and chants of build the wall and send them back from his crowd of supporters.

His comments mark the latest anti-immigrant rhetoric from the former president  rhetoric that has drawn comparisons to Adolf Hitler and other fascist leaders.

In recent months, he has referred to political opponents as vermin and called migrants animals who are poisoning the blood of the country.

Mr Trumps associates are already said to be making plans to deport asylum seekers en masse during a potential second term.

Backers of the former president, including former administration officials, are prepping executive orders and policy memos to reduce the number of migrants crossing the US-Mexico border on day one of him potentially reclaiming the White House, several people involved told The Wall Street Journal.

A Trump supporter confronts protestors during the campaign rally in the South Bronx in New York City on 23 May ( AFP via Getty Images )

A Trump spokesperson told The Independent earlier this month that Mr Trump will implement brand new crackdowns that will send shockwaves to all the worlds criminal smugglers, and marshal every federal and state power necessary to institute the largest deportation operation in American history.

Mr Trumps intensified xenophobic attacks comes despite studies revealing that immigrants are not more likely to commit crimes, Reuters reported last month.

Thursdays rally marked his first in New York in eight years  and his first ever in the Bronx  coming somewhat out of convenience as his criminal trial in Manhattan nears the end.

Mr Trump noted that he had been concerned about how he would be welcomed in the heavily Democratic area.

Trump walks on stage as he arrives for a campaign rally in the South Bronx in New York City on 23 May ( AFP via Getty Images )

I woke up, I said, I wonder, will it be hostile or will it be friendly? he said. It was beyond friendly. It was a love fest.

After losing the state by large margins in 2016 and 2020, Mr Trump claimed he would win New York in the fall.

New York was where you came to make it big. You want to make it big, you had to be in New York, Mr Trump, who made Florida his official home state in 2019, told the crowd. But sadly, this is now a city in decline.

In 2020, Mr Biden won the Bronx by 68 points, which was actually an improvement for Mr Trump compared to 2016 when he lost the borough by 79 points.

Mr Trump is in a close race with Mr Biden ahead of the election in the fall, with the Trump campaign trying to attract enough Black and Hispanic voters to get him across the line in key states.

Protesters and supporters of Trump are separated by the NYPD outside the Crotona Park rally venue ( Getty Images )

Dont assume it doesnt matter just because you live in a blue city. You live in a blue city, but its going red very, very quickly, Mr Trump claimed.

Mr Trump also spent considerable parts of the speech reminiscing about his decades in New York, including praising his father Fred Trump and home builder William Levitt.

Despite his claims of a love fest, more than 100 protesters demonstrated against his appearance outside the fenced-off rally area.

Closing arguments in Mr Trumps criminal trial in New York will begin on Tuesday before the jury begins deliberations in the case.

Mr Trump is charged with falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election to silence her about an alleged affair they had in 2006. He has pleaded not guilty and denies the affair.
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Donald Trumps criminal hush money trial is approaching its final phase, with the 12-person jury soon set to determine the former presidents fate.

This trial has brought a parade of intriguing figures to New York, both inside and out of the courtroom  from the trial witnesses such as porn star Stormy Daniels and Mr Trumps former fixer Michael Cohen to surprise visits from MAGA loyalists, including Colorado Rep Lauren Boebert and House Speaker Mike Johnson.

The Independent has been covering the historic trial live from the courthouse each day.

Ahead of closing arguments, senior reporter Alex Woodward and general news reporter Ariana Baio held a Reddit Ask Me Anything forum to answer your questions about the case:

Q: Can you describe your day-to-day experience while covering the trial? What are things like outside the courthouse, especially the crowds reaction to members of the press?

Alex: Its a long day! Theres no guarantee that we can get in an overflow courtroom so we start lining up around 5am on days where we know there will be a lot of press trying to get inside  like when Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen were on the stand.

We hang in line across the street from the courthouse and drink coffee for a few hours before court officers hand out slips of paper that act as our sort of permission slip to come back in. And then were inside all day with a brief break for lunch.

We can bring our laptops and phones into the room, so were able to do all the updates, but theres sometimes a mad dash to charge everything if the day goes long (and it does). The anti-Trump crowds hassle the network camera crews that are set up across from the court, but nothing wild.

Q: Do you think his cronies are actually achieving anything by attending? If so, what?

Ariana: Yes and no.

No because many of their appearances are for show only. Theyre just racking up brownie points with Donald Trump  the presumed Republican Party nominee  and his allies.

Trump is flanked by his surrogates at the courthouse ( POOL/AFP via Getty Images )

Yes because his surrogates are serving as his voice to complain about the trial and judge while he cant. The judge gagged Trump so he is not allowed to speak about witnesses, prosecutors, jurors, court staff member or their families  as well as the judges family.

Q: If you could put a soundtrack to the trial, what would it be and why?

Ariana: Incredible question. My head tells me The Godfather soundtrack but my heart says a 40-hour loop of white noise.

Alex: Amazing question. Throw some Twin Peaks score in there and it wouldnt be that weird.

Q: As a casual observer, it seems like most of the prosecutions witnesses are there to present the background, and that the only witness to present evidence directly relevant to the charges is Cohen. If thats true, the entire case comes down to his credibility. Am I missing something?

Also, I believe Trumps lawyers, I think in their opening statement, have denied that he had sex with Stormy Daniels. The jurors may believe otherwise after hearing her testimony. Can/should/will the prosecution use that in their closing remarks to impeach the credibility of the defense?

Alex: Prosecutors spent a lot of time getting testimony on the context of it all  Trump had a catch-and-kill agreement with his attorney and a tabloid publisher, who they used to help find stories and then bury them in NDAs under the guise of publishing agreements (for stories that were never published).

Former president Donald Trump speaks to reporters at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York on Monday 20 May 2024 ( Steven Hirsch/AP )

And yeah, Cohen is the only one who can say that Trump spoke to him about that. Of course, Trump isnt charged for that stuff. Thats all dubious but legal. Jurors dont have to believe Cohens life story but they cant ignore mounds of documents, emails and text messages tying Cohen to Trump, including checks he signed in big ol Sharpie ink.

As for Daniels, it doesnt matter if Trump did or didnt have sex with her. Prosecutors wanted to show why Trump would want to hide her story, so thats the motive, and itll be really helpful to understand why Trump would want to keep that stuff out of the press in the immediate aftermath of the Access Hollywood tape being published. Trump signed the NDA after all. It tests the credibility of the defense, but Trump has always been adamant about saying hes never done anything wrong  something his lawyers are arguing in court on a daily basis.

Q: How long until we get a verdict? How do you see this ending for Trump?

Alex: We could get a verdict as soon as next Wednesday. Closing arguments start on Tuesday and deliberations could begin the next day if theyre able to come back  weve been off on all Wednesdays so far but Judge Merchan wants to keep things rolling.

Theyll keep deliberating the rest of the week and next week or however long they need, or there will be a hung jury if they just cant come up with a decision. How it ends depends on what the jury decides, but the judges instructions to the jury  which well see this week  will be extremely clarifying for how they think about the case and the evidence they see.

Former President Donald Trump with his defense lawyers Emil Bove and Todd Blanche and prosecutor Matthew Colangelo before Justice Juan Merchan ( REUTERS )

Q: What are you seeing outside the courtroom in terms of Trump supporters vs protestors who are anti-Trump? Small numbers of each? More from one side than the other?

Alex: Definitely small numbers for both. Yesterday Trump claimed there were big crowds a few blocks away and werent allowed near the courthouse. Thats not true at all  a small crowd typically shows up in the late morning and hangs around through the early afternoon in a designated area across the street from the courthouse.

The NYPD has set up a wide perimeter of barricades specifically for them. There are a handful of regular anti-Trump protesters who show up in the park in an adjacent space thats set up for them. And then there are pro- and anti-Trump members of the public, who stand in line all morning for a chance to get inside.

Q: Is he really audibly passing gas?

Alex: I truly wish I knew the answer to this. He dozes off and eats a lot of mints.

This has been edited for length and clarity.
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After weeks of at times bombshell testimony, the fate of Donald Trump will soon be in the hands of the 12 New Yorkers chosen to sit on the jury in his first criminal trial.

Mr Trump is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records over a $130,000 hush money payment, which was designed to silence porn star Stormy Daniels in the days before the 2016 election about an alleged affair she had with Mr Trump in 2006.

Prosecutors allege that Mr Trumps former fixer Michael Cohen made the initial payment on behalf of his boss and Mr Trump then reimbursed him in a series of payments that were falsely labeled as legal expenses for a retainer that did not exist.

Mr Trump denies the charges and the sexual encounter with Ms Daniels.

Throughout the trial, the panel of jurors heard from a string of witnesses connected to the allegations, including both Ms Daniels and Cohen. Meanwhile, Mr Trump chose not to testify  despite toying with the idea for weeks.

The jury will get the case in the coming days after hearing closing arguments from both sides on Tuesday.

So what will the 12 jurors be looking at as they weigh the verdict and decide whether to make history and convict a former US president on criminal charges?

The Independent speaks to legal experts to find out:

Elements of the crimes

The key questions jurors will need to answer are: did the former president falsify business records and, if yes, did he do so in furtherance of another crime?

Attorney Duncan Levin, who worked at the Manhattan District Attorneys Office years before the case against Mr Trump, tells The Independent that jurors will be looking closely at whether the district attorney has met its burden of proof and put in all of the elements of the crimes.

Donald Trump in a court sketch during his hush money trial ( REUTERS )

The elements are that Mr Trump caused the filing of false business records, he adds. The other part is that he did it with the intent to conceal a conspiracy to promote his election by unlawful means.

Mr Levin says that the business records are false on their face.

Theres evidence that  the reimbursement to Michael Cohen was not for legal services, but was a reimbursement for the money sent over to Stormy Daniels and the figures were grossed up, meaning they were doubled for taxes, which shows the falsity because reimbursements would not be doubled, he adds.

Cohens testimony the centerpiece of the trial

For Steve Duffy, a jury consultant at Trial Behavior Consulting, tells The Independent that Cohens testimony  and how far the jury believes him  holds the key to the case.

Across several days on the stand, Cohen testified that he paid off Ms Daniels on behalf of Mr Trump and that he was reimbursed, with the payments fraudulently recorded.

But Cohen, a proven liar, also admitted in his testimony that he stole tens of thousands of dollars from the Trump Organization.

Under cross-examination, he was also confronted with some evidence that seemed to contradict previous things he had said at the trial.

That said, the often hot-headed Cohen kept his cool, saying that, yes, he had lied when he was working for Mr Trump but that now hes telling the truth.

Certainly, Cohens testimony is the centerpiece of the whole case, says Mr Duffy, adding that much of the case hinges on how the jury feels about Cohen.

Michael Cohen leaves his home on his second day of testimony at Manhattan Criminal Court on 14 May ( Getty Images )

His credibility is, in many ways, the crucial issue, he says.

One of the unique things about the jury system, and one of the reasons it can be criticized, is [that] different groups of 12 people can do very different things.

Mr Duffy adds that Mr Trumps decision not to testify is particularly interesting, due to the former presidents affinity for verbally attacking anyone he deems a threat.

I do think from a zero-sum perspective, the decision to not have him testify was the least bad of two evils, he adds.

Very strong case

Mr Levin says that other evidence in the case also lays out for jurors the prosecutions case that the records were falsified in order to influence the 2016 election.

He points to the plot between the former National Enquirer boss David Pecker, Mr Trump and Cohen to silence Playboy model Karen McDougals story of an affair with Mr Trump.

Mr Levin says theres plenty of evidence to show that it was not being quieted down for personal reasons  it was quieted down so that it wouldnt get out before the election.

Text messages, emails, and videos all support the conspiracy, he says, adding: I think it came out as a very strong case.

Mr Duffy agrees that the volume of testimony and evidence of sheer graft as a strength for the prosecution.

The whole thing is so sordid, he adds. It just reeks of corruption.

Donald Trump appears in court during his trial at Manhattan Criminal Court on 20 May ( Getty Images )

I dont think anybody could say honestly that it was above board, Mr Duffy says. Whether or not it violated these specific laws  is a more nuanced question. But I think the strength of the prosecutions case is that the whole thing just reeks.

He adds that the defense didnt do themselves any favors by making the case as much about public relations as about actually winning the case.

Mr Levin, the former DA lawyer, says he has seen enough evidence to support the charges brought against Mr Trump.

The defense didnt manage to establish an alternative situation that explains the payments to Michael Cohen, or that it didnt relate to an election, or that the documents werent falsified, he says.

Theres really nothing from the defense that undermines the charges, and the DAs office put in a sufficient case.
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More than 100 people are feared dead after a huge landslide struck a remote mountainous area of Papua New Guinea on Friday.

The landslide struck while people were sleeping, at around 3am local time, tearing through the village of Kaokalam in Enga province, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Residents say current estimates of the death toll are above 100, although this figure has not been confirmed by authorities.

Villagers say the number killed could be much higher, with video on social media showing locals pulling out buried bodies.

Elizabeth Laruma, who runs a womens business association in Porgera, a town in the same province near the Porgera gold mine, said houses were flattened when the side of a mountain gave way.

It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours, and the entire village has gone down, Ms Laruma told ABC news.

From what I can presume, its about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground.

She said the landslide blocked the road between Porgera and the village, raising concerns about the towns own supply of fuel and goods.

Village resident Ninga Role, who was away when the landslide struck, expects at least four of his relatives to have died.

There are some huge stones and plants, trees. The buildings collapsed, Ms Role said.

These things are making it hard to find the bodies fast.

The Papua New Guinea government and police did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Friday.

Papua New Guinea is a diverse, developing nation of mostly subsistence farmers with 800 languages. There are few roads outside the larger cities.

With 10 million people, it is the most populous South Pacific nation after Australia, home to 27 million.
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A London-born teenager who died of leukaemia in 2006 is set to become the Catholic Churchs first millennial saint, after Pope Francis formally recognised a second miracle attributed to Carlo Acutis.

The late teenager, who moved with his family to Milan in Italy when he was a child, is known as the patron saint of the internet among Roman Catholics and has been referred to as Gods influencer.

According to a Vatican statement issued on Thursday, the miracle being recognised involves a Costa Rican woman, Liliana, whose daughter Valeria Valverde, 21, suffered severe head trauma from a bicycle accident in Florence on 2 July 2022.

Carlo Acutis pictured in 2006 ( Photos by Alamy )

The Vatican says that Valeria underwent critical surgery and had slim survival chances according to her doctors. Liliana reportedly prayed at Carlo Acutiss tomb in Assisi on 8 July, while her secretary had already begun praying to him.

That same day, according to the Vatican, Valeria started to breathe on her own, and the following day she regained some movement and speech. By 18 July, a CAT scan showed her haemorrhage had vanished, and she entered rehabilitation on 11 August, making rapid progress.

Pope Francis has announced a meeting of cardinals to discuss making Acutis a saint, according to the Vatican statement.

In 2020 he became the youngest person in the modern era to be beatified (the first step to being made a saint) after purportedly curing a Brazilian boy, Mattheus Vianna, of a serious birth defect that made eating difficult.

Acutis created a website to catalogue miracles and managed websites for local Catholic organisations in Italy before his death from leukaemia in 2006. He was 15.

Carlo was the light answer to the dark side of the web, his mother Antonia Acutis told The New York Times in 2020 after he was beatified and put on the path to sainthood in the Catholic Church.

Ms Acutis said that at the age of seven, he began attending daily mass. Her sons life, she said, can be used to show how the internet can be used for good, to spread good things.

After Acutiss death, the Diocese of Assisi petitioned the Vatican for his sainthood. They examined his emails and computer search history and interviewed witnesses while awaiting miracles to support his cause.

Carlo was beatified, the step before sainthood, in a 2020 ceremony in the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi ( Alamy )

In February that year, Pope Francis credited Acutis with the miraculous healing of a Brazilian boy with a malformed pancreas after the child reportedly touched one of Carlos shirts.

According to a 2017 report by the National Catholic Register, only 120 of the more than 10,000 saints recognised by the Roman Catholic Church died as children or teenagers.

The Vatican has not yet announced a date for the formal canonisation ceremony.

Before Acutis, the last saint born in England was Cardinal John Henry Newman, who died in 1890 at the age of 89. He was canonised by Pope Francis in 2019. According to the Catholic News Agency, the first miracle attributed to Cardinal Newman was the inexplicable healing of a deacon with a severe spinal condition.

The second involved a pregnant American woman who recovered from a life-threatening diagnosis after praying for Newmans intercession, with doctors unable to explain her sudden recovery.
 Close Rescuers hunt for survivors under rubble after Majorca restaurant collapse kills four

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A restaurant in Majorca promoted a new rooftop terrace just one day before the building collapsed, leaving four people dead, five seriously injured, and 11 wounded in hospital.

Rescue teams have been working at the scene of the Medusa Beach Club, a popular tourist restaurant at a packed beach resort, amid fears more people could have been trapped under the rubble after the incident at around 8.30pm on Thursday.

A terrace where people were dancing fell onto the floor below, according to the Balearic Islands public television IB3, with local officials telling reporters excess weight on a first-floor terrace may have caused the collapse.

It came one day after Medusa Beach Club posted a photograph of a terrace on its Instagram, alongside the caption: Totally different, new rooftop.

Spains National Police said two German women, aged 20 and 30, were among those killed, along with a 33-year-old Spanish woman, who worked in the club, and a 44-year-old Senegalese man.

The Independent understands the UK Foreign Office has not received any reports of British nationals involved.

Have you been affected by this incident? Email tara.cobham@independent.co.uk
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Holidaymakers and locals were enjoying their Thursday evening dancing at a Majorcan bar  when screams, wailing and crying were heard as the building collapsed, turning the busy beach resort into a bloodbath.

Emergency services and rescue teams have been working at the scene of the Medusa Beach Club in Palma since the tragedy unfolded at around 8.30pm, leaving four dead, 16 injured and more feared trapped under the rubble.

Spains National Police said on Friday that two young German women, aged 20 and 30, were among those killed at the popular tourist restaurant, along with a 33-year-old Spanish woman, who worked in the club, and a 44-year-old Senegalese man.

He was named by Majorca Daily Bulletin as Abdoulaye Diop, a doorman in Playa de Palma, who was a regular at Medusa Beach Club and had gone in to have a coffee.

A police officer stands during investigation works one day after a two-storey restaurant collapsed ( AFP via Getty Images )

Of the 16 who were injured, five were said to be in a serious condition, but their lives were no longer in danger by midday on Friday, according to the local mayor.

Officials said that 14 of the wounded were Dutch, with 11 of those in hospital and three released, while there were no immediate details on the nationalities of the other two people who were also released. It was not clear if they were all tourists or some were residents.

The Independent understands the UK Foreign Office has not received any reports of British nationals involved in the fatal incident, but it is in contact with Spanish authorities.

Santiago Aranda, a resident who was walking his dog at the time of the incident, told La Linterna: I dont have words to describe it. It was an explosion, and we were in the street opposite ... Some ran in the opposite direction and others towards the dust. Mr Aranda said he stayed to help get people out amid screams, wailing and crying.

Firefighters work one day after the two-storey restaurant collapsed ( AFP via Getty Images )

Local resident Francisco Nogales said that after the incident there was the sound of crying, you heard the people crying.

The mayor said that emergency services had to call on people in the street to try to stay quiet so that they might hear any calls for help from survivors.

Public television on the Balearic Islands, IB3, reported that there were people dancing on the terrace of the two-storey building, which collapsed onto the floor below, damaging the street-level floor as well as a disco area in the basement.

Palma mayor Jaime Martinez and firefighter department spokesman Eder Garcia told reporters that excess weight on a first-floor terrace may have caused the collapse. Garcia later added that the age of the building, which was not given, might also have been a factor.

Police officers investigate one day after the two-storey restaurant collapsed ( AFP via Getty Images )

However, no official cause has yet been determined. Police and firefighters were inspecting the building on Friday to try to ascertain the causes of the collapse.

The incident came just one day after Medusa Beach Club promoted its new rooftop terrace, posting a photograph of it on Instagram, alongside the caption: Totally different, new rooftop.

The city declared three days of mourning, and a minute of silence was observed at noon on Friday.

Marga Prohens, president of the Balearic Islands, said she was shocked to hear of the tragedy.

Emergency services at the scene of a building collapse at the Medusa Beach Club restaurant ( EPA )

All my affection and warmth to the families of the four people who lost their lives in this tragic incident and wishing the recovery of all the injured, she said.

In the wake of the incident, Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez wrote on X: I am closely following the consequences of the terrible collapse that occurred on the beach of Palma.

Mr Sanchez said he had spoken to local and regional authorities, adding the government was ready to help with all the means and troops that are necessary.

I want to send my condolences to the families of the deceased and my wish for a speedy recovery to the injured, he said.
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The deputy head of the Russian army's General Staff has been accused of taking bribes and arrested, investigators have said  the latest in a slew of high-profile cases of alleged corruption to shake Vladimir Putin's top brass.

The arrest of Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin is the fourth detention of a high-ranking defence figure within a month, starting on 23 April when Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was placed in pre-trial detention for suspected bribe-taking.

Since then, Lieutenant-General Yuri Kuznetsov, head of personnel at the defence ministry, and Major-General Ivan Popov, former commander of Russia's 58th army, have also been arrested.

Lieutenant-General Shamarin is accused of taking bribes between 2016 and 2023 from a factory in the Ural mountains that produces communications equipment, as a reward for placing bigger state contracts with it, Russia's Investigative Committee said. It said he had benefited to the tune of at least 36 million roubles (310,000).

Lt-Gen Shamarin, whose home was reportedly searched in connection with the investigation and who has been placed in pre-trial detention for two months, faces a prison term of up to 15 years if found guilty. There was no immediate word on how he pleaded.

Lt-Gen Shamarin has been in charge since 2020 of overseeing the army's Signal Corps, which is responsible for military communications, including ensuring confidential battlefield command signals.

The arrests are the biggest scandal to hit the Russian army in years and come at a time when it is has made some gains on the battlefield in Ukraine  which Russia invaded in 2022  and has a new defence minister, economist Andrei Belousov, at its helm.

The appointment of Mr Belousov, who has no army experience, was widely seen, among other things, as a move to eliminate wastage and corruption in defence spending. Sergei Shoigu, the previous minister, has been moved to become secretary of Russia's Security Council.

With no obvious end in sight to the war, now well into its third year, the arrests appear to underpin a major effort to stamp out corruption surrounding the awarding of lucrative military contracts, to try to ensure that the military-industrial complex is producing as much as possible for the right price.

The Kremlin, which said it was not authorised to disclose details of the case, played down Lt-Gen Shamarin's arrest and said similar anti-corruption work was being carried out across various Russian state agencies.

"The fight against corruption is consistent work," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "It is not a campaign, it is constantly ongoing work."

Other cases in other agencies are being pursued. On Thursday, investigators asked a Moscow court to place the deputy head of the Moscow region's prison service in pre-trial detention in a bribery case.

But Sergei Markov, a former Kremlin adviser, said Lt-Gen Shamarin's arrest was the continuation of a sweeping shake-up among the army's top generals.

"The arrest of Shamarin, deputy chief of the General Staff, is not only an arrest, but also a large-scale audit of the work of the Main Communications (Signals) Directorate by the Audit Chamber," said Mr Markov.

He said one of the probe's aims was to "increase the army's morale and equip the army with modern communications equipment and missile and artillery guidance systems".

An influential military blogger close to the defence ministry who goes by the name "Rybar" and has more than 1 million followers, said the arrest and others like it were logical, but that investigators had probably sat on the alleged wrongdoing for a long time before acting.

"And the result is an ideal situation for everyone," Rybar wrote on the Telegram app.

"The fighters at the front get a portion of positivity, the team of the new defence minister gets a loud start, the problems start to be solved immediately (it does not matter that the military-industrial complex and other components of the solution had already started to be put in place), and the ordinary population celebrates," he said.

Lt-Gen Shamarin is a deputy to Valery Gerasimov, chief of the General Staff, who is managing the war in Ukraine. General Gerasimov has not been accused of any wrongdoing, though he has at times faced harsh criticism over the performance of Russia's military since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, something Moscow calls a special military operation.

Putin said last week that he did not plan changes to the General Staff because "combat work" was going successfully.

Reuters
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Civilians in Gaza have been unequivocally failed by the UK governments inaction in the face of Israels bombing campaign in Gaza, aid organisation Save the Children has told The Independent.

With the conflict in Gaza in its eighth month, more than 35,000 Palestinians have been killed according to health officials in the besieged enclave. More than half are women and children. Thousands more are feared buried under the rubble.

Save the Childrens senior adviser on conflict, Liz Bradshaw, told The Independent that there has been a shameful failure by the UK government when children in Gaza are facing the most dangerous and dire situation for children anywhere in the world.

The government continues to licence arms sales to Israel, although ministers have said their contribution is "relatively small" at 42m in 2002, the last figures available.

The foreign secretary, David Cameron, said recently that he is not really interested in halting the sale of weapons to Israel.

Ms Bradshaw condemned the foreign secretarys responses as dismissive and stressed that while UK arms to Israel may be low volume, they are high impact.

They include 15 per cent of the parts of the F35 fighter jets that are being used by Israeli forces, she continued.

The Israeli military is currently involved in an offensive in Rafah, a city on Gaza's southern border, where around a million people have been sheltering. The main Rafah crossing which borders Egypt has been seized by Israeli forces and completely closed since 8 May, making delivery of aid through that route impossible. Israel's bombardment of Gaza was triggered by the Hamas attack inside Israel on 7 October during which around 1,200 were killed and another 250 taken hostage.

Around 600,000 people have already fled Rafah, where violence is expected to intensify in the coming days and weeks. Among them is 22-year-old Haitham Shamlakh, who left Rafah for Deir al Balah in central Gaza with seven members of his family, including his nine-year-old brother and three younger sisters, aged three, 14 and 17.

Haitham and his family are currently living in a tent after their home was destroyed by by an airstrike. He told The Independent that life is very difficult due to bombing, starvation and the spread of disease.

Haitham was studying nursing at Al Aqsa University and said, via translation from UK-based friend Yomna Amer, that he wanted to work in healthcare in any capacity and was drawn to nursing by the humanity aspect of healthcare.

Haithams daily routine now revolves around queuing for hours to collect contaminated water for drinking. His family are forced to burn old clothes, nylon and plastic as well as wood to cook over. His younger siblings are scared and stressed. Even the dropping of a cup frightens them to the point of experiencing panic attacks.

The severity of trauma that children and young people in Gaza have been subjected to is a major concern for NGOs like Save the Children.

Ms Bradshaw explained that children in Gaza are at immediate physical risk  from horrific blast injuries caused by the use of explosive weapons in intensely dense populated areas, like Rafah, or from amputations, leaving them in agonising pain  and at humanitarian risk from being repeatedly displaced in some cases, four or five, six times condensed into ever smaller areas, where frankly, there just simply aren't the conditions for that number of people to survive.

She stressed that every single child in Gaza is in need of mental health support and will suffer lifelong psychological scars from what they have witnessed.

Analysis by Save the Children published in 2022 found that children in Gaza were already experiencing an acute mental health crisis, driven by 15 years of Israeli blockade, starting in 2007.

Ms Bradshaw also identified a broader issue of consistency around the UKs commitment to protecting civilians and upholding international humanitarian law, which the government says is key to its foreign policy.

The UK speaks in very powerful terms about protection of civilians in other parts of the world like Ukraine so why are we not seeing the same level of commitment and concern in relation to Palestinian children in Gaza?

Its pretty abject stuff. We hear a lot about the deep concern that they have, but frankly, their deep concern is meaningless to children in Gaza. And it's meaningless to our staff who are desperately battling against the odds to help children. We need action, not words from this government, and it's long, long overdue.

For Haitham in Gaza, he wants people in the West to see and hear our pain. But even in the face of so much destruction and violence, he remains hopeful.

I want the war to end, to return to our home even though it has been destroyed so we can get on with our lives and live like normal people.
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The UNs top court has ruled that Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in the city of Rafah on Gazas southern border.

The order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) further ratchets up international pressure on an increasingly isolated Israel to rein in its war on Hamas in Gaza. The decision marked the third time this year the 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders seeking to reduce the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in the territory as part of a case filed late last year by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide, allegations vehemently denied by Israel.

The court considers that, in conformity with the obligations, under the genocide convention, Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in Rafah and any other action in the Rafah governorate which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part, the courts president, Nawaf Salam said. The decison was made by 13 votes to two.

Judge Salam said Israel must also allow "unimpeded access" for any fact-finding or investigative mission sent by the United Nations to investigate the genocide allegations. The court said Israel must also reopen the Rafah crossing from Gaza into Egypt  with the Israeli military having taken control of the Gaza side earlier this month  to allow humanitarian aid to flow into the enclave. The court did not call for a full ceasefire throughout Gaza as South Africa had requested at hearings last week. It has already found that Israel's military operations pose a "real and imminent risk" to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Israel insists it has the right to defend itself from Hamas and is unlikely to comply with the ruling. Israel launched its air and ground war on Gaza after Hamas stormed into southern Israeli communities in a terror attack on 7 October, killing around 1,200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages. More than 35,000 Palestinians have since been killed in the Israeli offensive, health officials in the Hamas-run strip say.

Benny Gantz, a member of Israels war cabinet, said after the ruling: "The state of Israel set out on a just and necessary campaign following the brutal massacre of its citizens, abhorrent sexual violence perpetrated against its women, kidnapping of its children and rockets fired at its cities. The state of Israel is committed to continue fighting to return its hostages and promise the security of its citizens  wherever and whenever necessary  including in Rafah.

"We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for."

Magistrates are seen at the International Court of Justice as the ruling is announced ( AFP via Getty )

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under heavy pressure at home to end the war. Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing that time is running out. Around 120 people are still being held in Gaza, although a number are believed to be dead. Ahead of this ICJ announcement, the Israeli army said the bodies of three more hostages killed on 7 October have been recovered overnight from Gaza.

Military officials said the bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez have been identified and their families have been informed. The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said the court's failure to link a demand for an end to fighting with a demand to return Israeli hostages in Gaza was "a moral collapse and a moral disaster". Former Israeli UN envoy Danny Danon said: "As ICJ judges in The Hague deliberate in comfort and return to their families, 125 hostages languish in tunnels. Israel will not cease the war until our hostages are brought back home and Hamas is completely defeated."

Judge Salam did call for the hostages to be freed while delivering the Rafah judgement. The court finds it deeply troubling that many of these hostages remain in captivity and reiterates its call for their immediate and unconditional release, he said.

The ICJ has not ruled on the substance of the genocide accusation from South Africa  that could take years  but the court has rejected Israel's demand to throw the case out. South Africa requested interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal case continues. South Africas lawyers last week asked to impose emergency measures, saying Israels attacks on Rafah must be stopped to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people.

In previous rulings, the ICJ ordered Israel to prevent acts of genocide against the Palestinians and allow aid to flow into Gaza, while stopping short of ordering a halt to Israeli military operations.

The court at The Hague, with demonstrators carrying Palestinian flags ( AP )

The judge opened Fridays hearing by describing the humanitarian situation in Rafah  where around one million Palestinians are sheltering  as disastrous. He added that the Israeli evacuation orders handed down to those in the area was not sufficient to alleviate the immense risk to which the Palestinian population is exposed as a result of the military operation in Rafah.

Israel launched its assault on Rafah this month, forcing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee a city that had become a refuge to around half of the population's 2.3 million people. Rafah has also been the main route in for aid, and international organisations say the Israeli operation has cut off the enclave and raised the risk of famine.

While the ruling by the ICJ is a blow to Israel's international standing, the court does not have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its invasion of Ukraine.

Israel has signalled it will brush off the ICJ order to stop its operations. "No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza," Avi Hyman, the government spokesperson, said in a press briefing on Thursday.

While Israel is unlikely to comply with the ICJ order, it heaps more pressure on the increasingly isolated country. Criticism of Israels conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing, even from its closest ally, the United States, which has warned against a full invasion of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought shelter from fighting elsewhere.

The panel of 14 permanent judges from countries around the world, plus an extra ad hoc judge appointed by Israel as a party to the case, took their places inside the courtroom in The Hague before the hearing. Outside, a small group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators waved flags.

On Monday, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC)  a separate court also based in The Hague  announced that he had filed an application for arrest warrants for Mr Netanyahu, Israels defense minister, Yoav Gallant, and three top Hamas leaders  Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh  for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip and Israel.

Israel is not an ICC member, so even if the arrest warrants are issued, Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution. But the threat of arrest could make it difficult for the Israeli leaders to travel abroad.

Reuters contributed to this report
Benjamin Netanyahus government had been expecting the judges at the United Nations highest court to accept, at least partly, South Africas case over a ceasefire in Gaza and had already gone on the offensive.

A senior Israeli spokesperson, Avi Hyman, declared before the decision was announced that no power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza. While Gilad Noam, Israels deputy attorney general, said: Calling something a genocide again and again does not make it genocide. Repeating a lie does not make it true.

Officials said before the judgment came down that there was a low chance the International Court of Justice (ICJ) would reject South Africas request for a cessation of hostilities: a medium one that the court will accept the demand to halt the war in Gaza, and a medium-to-high chance that it would ask the Rafah offensive to be stopped.

It is the latter option that the court chose.

Officials had already indicated that Israel would not abide by any decision made by the court in the Hague. Although ICJ rulings are meant to be binding, it has no power to enforce them. It has, for example, ordered Russia to halt its invasion of Ukraine, without any effect.

The ICJ ruling, however, will further isolate Israel, coming, as it does, after a second global legal forum the International Criminal Court began considering whether arrest warrants should be issued against Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli prime minister, and Yoav Gallant, his defence minister, as well as Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif.

Further pressure on Israel came this week with Ireland, Norway and Spain saying they will recognise a Palestinian state, a decision Netanyahu declared was rewarding terrorism, creating a terror state, something Israel  will never agree to being established.

Sir Keir Starmer has outlined a future Labour governments position as recognising a Palestinian state at the right time, but refused to say whether itll be within six months of coming to power. I think recognition of Palestine is extremely important. We need a viable Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel, and recognition has to be part of that, he told the BBC during his first major interview since the UK general election date was announced.

Although the ICJ is powerless to enforce its judgment, Israel could be exposed to international sanctions if it flouts it and, in the current mood of international exasperation with the Netanyahu government, some states may impose these.

The US administration, without whose military and political support Israel would not be able to continue the war, is unlikely to follow suit and is likely to ask Western allies to desist from sanctions. It will also use its veto in the Security Council if the United Nations seeks a resolution on ending hostilities in Gaza.

But Washington has expressed concern about the growing antipathy in other countries towards Israel with the death toll in Gaza reaching 35,600, according to Palestinian health officials.

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said: As a country that stands strong in defence of Israel in international forums like the United Nations, we certainly have seen a growing chorus of voices, including voices that had previously been in support of Israel, drift in another direction. That is of concern to us because we do not believe that that contributes to Israels long-term security or vitality  So thats something we have discussed with the Israeli government.
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Kabosu, the shiba inu dog who went viral as the doge meme, has died, her owner said on Friday.

Owner Atsuko Sato, 62, confirmed the news on her social media on Friday. Kabosu had been suffering from leukaemia and liver disease since 2022 and died on 24 May.

She quietly passed away as if asleep while I caressed her, Atsuko Sato wrote.

I think Kabo-chan was the happiest dog in the world. And I was the happiest owner.

Thank you all so much for loving Kabosu all these years. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has sent us much love.

Ms Sato, who is a teacher from Sakura, east of Tokyo, adopted Kabosu from a shelter in 2008 after the puppy mill she was born in shut down. Since Kabosu was a rescue, Ms Sato doesnt know exactly when she was born, but she estimates Kabosu was around 18 years old.

A photo of Kabosu with a side-eyed look and crossed paws from 2010 went viral in 2013, creating one of the most iconic photos on the internet.

Ms Sato originally posted the photo on her blog, where it can still be seen, from which it spread to Reddit, Tumblr, and several other online chatrooms, following which it was christened doge, a deliberate misspelling of dog.

The image was usually accompanied with funny, broken English in comic sans font as if to emulate Kabosus inner monologue.

The photo then went on to inspire a cryptocurrency called Dogecoin, started as a joke by software engineers, which now has a market capitalisation of $23 billion, and is often mentioned on X by tech mogul Elon Musk.

Musk has referred to Dogecoin as the peoples crypto and briefly changed the Twitter logo to Doge as a joke in April 2023.

The image also became an NFT digital artwork that sold for $4m (3.1m) in 2021.

Ever since Kabosu came into my home, a series of miraculous things have happened, enriching my life and gifting me with a treasure trove of priceless moments, Ms Sato told Japanese newspaper Ashahi Shimbun in February.

In 2020, Ms Sato spoke about Kabosu, detailed how she came to be a part of her family, and gave a brief history of the iconic photo in an interview with Know Your Meme, an archive of viral online moments and images.

The volunteer who took Kabosu out of the animal welfare centre and protected her gave her that name. I think they came up with it because Kabosu has a round face. Kabosu is a kind of citrus fruit [popular in Japan], Ms Sato said.

open image in gallery Pictures and products of Japanese shiba inu dog Kabosu, best known as the logo of cryptocurrency Dogecoin, on display at the home of her owner Atsuko Sato in the city of Sakura ( AFP via Getty Images )

I took the photos to update my blog. I take a lot of pictures every day, so that day was nothing out of the ordinary. Kabosu loves having her photo taken, so she was delighted to have the camera pointed towards her.

I didnt know anything, and I still dont really understand, she added on the photos popularity.

In November last year, a $100,000 statue of Kabosu and her sofa crowdfunded by Own The Doge, a crypto organisation, was revealed in a park in Sakura.

Sato and Own The Doge have also donated large sums to several international charities, including a sum of $1m to Save the Children.
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A Conservative MP who campaigned for Brexit has joined growing calls to ease the ban on travel to the UK by European school groups with ID cards.

Sally-Ann Hart, MP for Hastings and Rye, told The Independent it is vital that barriers to restoring inbound tourism are removed.

Her constituency has seen a collapse in school groups from the EU who previously stayed in the town while on English-language courses. In 2021, the government banned the use of ID cards by visitors to the UK.

Faced with the almost insurmountable hurdle of ensuring every student visiting the UK has a passport, school groups have switched to Malta and Ireland for English-language courses.

Bernard Donoghue, director of the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (Alva), has called the ID card ban a disastrous act of economic self-harm.

He told The Independent: Our English-language schools have been missing out on both customers and money for the last three years.

Ms Harts constituency has been singled out by the chief executive of VisitBritain as an example of the damage caused. In 2022, Patricia Yates told MPs: You will find destinations like Hastings absolutely decimated by a lack of school visits.

Ms Hart said: Inbound tourism is one of the jewels in the crown of the British economy and it is vital the government ensures that barriers to growth are removed to allow it to achieve its full potential.

This includes working to boost the numbers of language students coming to the UK to learn English, including in the beautiful constituency of Hastings and Rye.

In October 2021, the then-home secretary, Priti Patel, carried out her promise to end the use of insecure ID cards for people to enter our country.

She said: We are strengthening our border and delivering on the peoples priority to take back control of our immigration system.

But UK Inbound, representing tourism businesses, says: This has had a hugely detrimental effect on the UKs valuable school group travel industry.

Schools in France are now allowed to bring groups with ID cards, but the inbound tourism industry is calling for further relaxation.

UK Inbound says: Communities across the UK, particularly in coastal areas which are traditionally home to the language schools that many of these school groups attend, are losing out on valuable expenditure.

Many British families who traditionally host students every year are also missing out on income they would have otherwise received.

A government spokesperson said: Last year, the UK committed to ease the travel of school groups to the UK by making changes to documentary requirements for schoolchildren on organised trips from France.

At the time the ID card ban was introduced, the government said: Inconsistency in the design and security features of these cards creates problems for effective border control given the potential for fraud and the need for manual processing.

It described European ID cards as some of the most abused documents seen at the border.

But the Tourism Alliance, representing tourism trade associations, says: The likelihood of any absconding from this cohort is very small  the children have families back in their resident country and they are accompanied by an adult with full documentation.

The organisation claims inbound school groups previously contributed 28.6bn annually to the UK economy.

Ms Hart said in previous campaign literature: I voted to leave and have campaigned ever since to respect the will of the people.

The slump in the value of sterling relative to the euro  down about 15 per cent since the EU referendum  makes the UK more financially attractive to overseas visitors who have the correct documentation.
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A P&O Cruises ship will be met at port for a deep cleaning following a norovirus outbreak onboard  and future passengers will face departure delays.

Guests on Ventura reported gastrointestinal symptoms during the 14-night cruise around the Canary Islands, including stops in Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

An unconfirmed number of people with sickness and diarrhoea were asked to isolate in their cabins after embarkation in Southampton on 11 May.

Ventura has a capacity for 3,078 passengers, but under 3,000 are reported to be on board alongside around 1,200 crew members.

According to the cruise line, 0.64 per cent of passengers were symptomatic on Wednesday and those who are still symptomatic on arrival will disembark later than other passengers.

Although an enhanced sanitation of the ship was carried out on 17 May in Tenerife, Southampton Port Health Authority said it would assist the vessel once it was back at port.

The cruise ship is due to return to Southampton around 6am on Saturday (25 May), where it will be met with health officials for a cleaning programme of all spaces onboard. This includes fogging  spraying disinfectant into sealed rooms and specifically targeting bathrooms and food preparation areas.

Ventura will reportedly be without passengers for seven hours on Saturday while commercial cleaners disinfect the ship.

The P&O Cruises vessel is scheduled to set sail for a seven-night cruise around Spain and Portugal later in the day that is expected to be delayed.

Passengers booked on the week-long voyage have been asked to arrive four hours later than planned to make time for sanitation.

A P&O Cruises spokesperson said: Tomorrow we will be doubling the length of time the ship will be without guests whilst in Southampton port, to allow for a dedicated enhanced cleaning programme of all spaces onboard, including guest cabins, public areas and crew areas.

These methods are in addition to our already approved, recognised and proven protocols that happen throughout every cruise sailing to uphold the wellbeing of all guests and crew onboard.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 150 passengers on board US cruises ships suffered diarrhoea and vomiting in two separate norovirus outbreaks in April.

The health agency said that 94 of 2,532 passengers on a Princess Cruises ship and 67 of 1,993 passengers onboard a Royal Caribbean ship reported sickness during voyages last month.
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The in-flight policies on Singapore Airlines planes have been updated following an incidence of extreme turbulence this week that saw the death of a British man and dozens of passengers injured.

The carrier has now decided to stop serving hot drinks and meals when the seatbelt sign is on.

It told The Independent that it has adopted a more cautious approach to managing turbulence in-flight.

In addition to the suspension of hot beverage service when the seat belt sign is on, the meal service will also be suspended.

During poor weather conditions, particularly in turbulence, cabin crew will continue to secure all loose items and equipment in the cabin and galley to minimise the risk of turbulence-related injuries.

Crew will continue to advise passengers to return to their seats and secure their seat belts while also monitoring customers who may require assistance.

It added: Pilots and cabin crew are aware of the hazards associated with turbulence. They are also trained to assist customers and ensure cabin safety throughout the flight. [Singapore Airlines] will continue to review our processes as the safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance.

open image in gallery One of the injured passengers in hospital in Bangkok ( The Associated Press )

Following the tragic flight on Tuesday 21 May, the daily London to Singapore route has flown a different path between the countries.

SQ321 has completed two flights since the incident and has not flown over the part of Myanmar where the sudden turbulence occurred about three hours before its scheduled landing. The flight time is about the same, tracking data show.

They flew instead over the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, according to route data from aviation tracker FlightRadar 24.

The terrifying incidence of turbulence occurred 10 hours into a flight from London Heathrow to Singapore when the Boeing 777 carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members dropped 6,000ft in about three minutes.

The dive tossed people around the cabin, with some suffering head injuries from hitting the ceiling.

After regaining control, the captain diverted the plane to Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi Airport, where medical teams evaluated those aboard and sent more than 80 to hospital.

Photographs from inside the plane showed gashes in the overhead cabin panels, oxygen masks and panels hanging from the ceiling and luggage strewn around. A passenger said some peoples heads had slammed into the lights above the seats and broken the panels.

A 73-year-old British died of a suspected heart attack, while as many as 40 passengers remain in hospital in Thailand  some in a serious condition.

Singapore Airlines has a stellar safety record and is widely seen as one of the worlds leading airlines.
Donald Trump claimed illegal migrants are building an army against America as he addressed crowds at a rally in the South Bronx on Thursday (23 May).

The former US president claimed his predecessor Joe Biden is not getting the job done for the Bronx as he listed several problems he believes the city is facing.

Trump said: You look at these people they are physically fit, theyre 19 to 25, almost everyone is a male, and they look like fighting age.

I think theyre building an army. I think they want to get us from within. I think theyre building an army they have something in mind.
Sir Keir Starmer says he will take part in televised election debates with Rishi Sunak.

The Conservatives are pushing for six TV debates, one each week of the campaign, but its expected Labour will commit to two.

Writing in The Telegraph, Mr Sunak claimed Sir Keir does not have the courage to face him.

That challenge was put to the Labour leader on Good Morning Britain on Friday (24 May), and he offered a clear response.

We will have debates, of course. They are a tradition, a part of the electoral cycle, Sir Keir said.

I could do one, I could do one hundred, I know what hes going to say.
Corre Energy raised 2.12m on Thursday in new equity by way of a subscription agreement following discussions with its founder shareholders, as well as another long-term shareholder.

The Dublin-listed company, which is headquartered in the Netherlands, focuses on the development, construction and commercialisation of long duration energy storage projects.

The new shares subscription comprises a total of 4,604,348 shares issued at a price of 0.46 each. It represent approximately 6.4pc of the issued share capital immediately prior to raise. The company said it now plans to launch a placing on similar terms to all eligible shareholders, which would allow participating investors to avoid seeing their stakes diluted.

Earlier this week, Corre Energy said that it planned to engage with shareholders regarding short-term funding requirements.

This investment would support the working capital of the company as it moves through the next stage in its strategic investment process being managed by Rothschild & Co, Corre said in a statement early on Thursday.

Shares in the company rose over 3pc following the update on short-term funding.

In March, the company reported that it had received multiple indications of interest: industrial, strategic and institutional to invest in the business.

It said at the time that discussions with each interested party remained at an early stage and did not confirm whether interest is for some or all of the business.

Last month, it appointed Rothschild & Co as financial advisor to the company while it assesses its options.

It says the additional funding for capital expenditure for various projects and working capital.

Corre added this week that there is no certainty that any investments will be made at this stage.

The subscription price is set to be 46 cent per share.

Shares in the business have dropped over 85pc in the past year, with Corre attributing the drop in share price to the overall trend in the energy transition market and uncertain economic conditions.

Davy analyst Michael Mitchell wrote in a note to investors that the proceeds of the subscription agreement will fund Corres short-term working capital needs.

The resulting >2m proceeds likely add approximately three months to its working capital runway, assuming a current monthly cash burn rate of c.0.7-0.8m, Mr Mitchell wrote.

It provides an important financial backstop for the business through the completion of its ongoing strategic investment process, which we understand is progressing in line with expectations.
Eir reported a 2pc rise in revenues in the first three months of the year as the number of fibre broadband and mobile customers increased.

The telecommunications group recorded revenue of 311m in the quarter, up 7m from the same period in 2023.

This was driven by mobile growth, Eir reported

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (Ebitda) rose by 7pc to 137m.

Operating costs were 109m, up 4pc. Non-pay costs increased by 7pc as a result of rising accommodation and marketing costs.

Pay costs were stable in the three-month period.

The companys fibre broadband base stood at 873,000, up 28,000 year-on-year. Eir reported that 92pc of the groups broadband base is now connected to its fibre network.

Eir also recorded a total 1.45 million mobile customers, an increase of 8pc from the same time in 2023.

Around 78pc of the mobile base is on postpay.

TV subscriptions jumped by 21pc to 106,000 year-on-year.

Eir reported that 90pc of fixed consumer households were on bundles which included two or more of the groups products in the period.

Eirs 5G network expansion is available in more than 600 villages, towns and cities across the country.

The business also plans to invest 8m in customer care systems.

Chief executive Oliver Loomes said that Eirs growth is supported by a capital investment of more than 1bn since 2018.

Eir continues to invest 250m per annum, ensuring that Ireland is equipped with world-class communications infrastructure, he said.

"Ongoing investment in communications infrastructure is crucial for driving Irelands economic expansion, sparking innovation, and maintaining our competitive edge on the global stage.

Chief financial officer Stephen Tighe added that the performance in the first three months of 2024 was in line with expectations.

Our solid commercial momentum is now delivering organic revenue growth on a consistent basis, he said.
Conor McGregor firm secures financing from McGrath brothers for Drimnagh development

Deal has seen Lotus Investment Group being repaid by his Emrajare company

MMA fighter Conor McGregor. Photo: PA

John Mulligan Fri 24 May 2024 at 03:30

A Conor McGregor firm, whose plans for apartments in Dublins Drimnagh have been rejected by planners, has secured finance from a company controlled by builders PJ and Thomas McGrath.
Kilshane Energy to build 293MW back-up generation plant

Plans for a new 293MW power station in north Dublin have been approved by An Bord Pleanala despite objections from locals.

The 150m power plant is being developed by Kilshane Energy, which is fronted by Northern Irish businessman Stuart Draffin.

It is designed to be a flexible peaking plant, acting as back-up generation for operating times of high electricity demand and low renewable electricity supply, in order to avoid power outages and ensuring security of electricity supply.

The power station is expected to operate for between 22 hours and 95 hours in a year, with an annual average operation time of 46 hours.

Kilshane Energy has been trying to secure permission for the project since 2021, when it first entered discussions with An Bord Pleanala regarding the proposed plants strategic infrastructure status. In 2022, the planning watchdog deemed the proposed power plant did not constitute a strategic infrastructure development.

Power plants below a 300MW threshold do not fall into the strategic infrastructure development net. That allowed Kilshane Energy to seek permission for the power plant directly from Fingal County Council.

The council approved the plans last year, subject to a number of conditions. However, that decision was appealed.

Eight observations had been received by the council.

They focused on issues such as the reliance on fossil fuels and carbon emissions, visual impact, the impact on human health, and other matters.

While the Government has a target of having 80pc of Irelands electricity being supplied from renewable sources by 2030, it has also acknowledged that the development of new conventional power stations fuelled by gas or gas oil, are a national priority in order to facilitate the energy transition to renewables.

The National Security Framework published by the Government in 2022 echoed that requirement.

The level of dispatchable electricity generation capacity (capacity that does not rely on wind or solar energy) needs to increase significantly over the coming years due to the reduced reliability of existing plants, anticipated new power stations not being developed as planned, expected strong growth in demand for electricity, and the closure of existing generation, it noted.

While An Bord Pleanalas planning inspector noted that concerns had been raised in relation to the reliance on gas rather than other forms of energy production, they said there is a clear national planning policy framework that seeks to support the development of new conventional energy generation in order to ensure security of supply.

The Climate Action Plan is specific that it supports at least 2GW of new flexible gas-fired generation and expanding the gas network to accommodate 2GW of new gas-fired generation, the inspector noted.

The Government aims to have 7GW of installed offshore wind energy farms by 2030 and 37GW by 2050.

Last year, Kilshane Energy twice abandoned plans to build a 150m gas-fired power station in Co Limerick at a rural location that is a former quarry. There was significant local opposition to the plan.

Kilshane Energy initially pulled the plans earlier in 2023, but then resubmitted the power plant proposal, only to scrap it again last autumn.
The Australian film-maker on his prequel to Fury Road, the pain involved in making the first Mad Max movie and why his latest star is in a tradition ste

A certain snobbery long persisted among critics when it came to the Mad Max franchise. There was a whiff of the B-movie about the whole thing, and those with long memories recalled the hand-wringing and moral outrage that greeted the cheap, cheerful and thoroughly nasty 1979 original.

They did not notice the skill with which George Miller told his stories, dispensing with dialogue and using sound and vision to drag the audience kicking and screaming into his nightmarish dystopia. The early Mad Maxes were daring, innovative and weirdly prophetic, their parched desert-scapes eerily anticipating 21st century environmental angst.

All that critical sniffiness ended abruptly in 2015, when Miller released his brilliant prequel Mad Max: Fury Road, a scintillating and breathlessly edited action picture. And Charlize Theron was altogether unforgettable as Furiosa, a one-armed warrior queen.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga | Official Trailer

Miller is now a hale 79, and going to the Mad Max well a fifth time might have represented a risk. But in Furiosa he matches the giddy heights of Fury Road  and, in one extraordinary action sequence, almost surpasses it.

When I meet Miller, hes in philosophical mood, and wryly contemplates the gulf in resources he had at his disposal making the original Mad Max compared with Furiosa.

Mad Max was a 90-minute film, he says, but somebody recently showed me the screenplay wed written all those years ago, and it was 274 pages long, simply because we couldnt afford a photocopier! So even though I did my own little storyboards, theres no way we could send them out to the crew, so we had to describe every shot  thered be a whole paragraph describing everything that happened in a shot that might only take two or three seconds.

By the time we did the second Mad Max, we could afford a photocopier, so that was storyboarded out as we were going along.

With Furiosa, it was a little different. This film was already existing as a full screenplay with concept art before we shot Fury Road.

All of which, I imagine, must have been very useful to Charlize Theron and the cast and crew of Fury Road.

Veteran: George Miller. Photo: Sonna Studios

It was, and in fact a few months before we were due to shoot Fury Road, Charlize asked me, Can we please shoot this movie first?. And I said, Sorry Charlize, weve been preparing this film for so long, we have to shoot it first.

The new film opens with a 10-year-old Furiosa living with her mother in a peaceful farming community built around an oasis. The girls life changes forever when shes abducted by marauders belonging to a bloodthirsty biker horde led by the grandiose maniac Dementus (Chris Hemsworth). He keeps her in a cage, and tries to beat and cajole her into revealing the location of the place of abundance. But the child refuses to say a single word.

Later, she will pass into the hand of Immortan Joe, a warrior chief and hoarder of water who uses all women as breeders. The grown Furiosa (Anya Taylor-Joy) will escape that fate by posing as a boy, working as a mechanic and eventually wangling her way towards freedom as the driver of a giant, oil-carrying truck.

Its much more a saga or an odyssey that were following here, Miller says, its a progression of time across 18 years, from when shes 10 and taken from her mother, all the way through to when she becomes the almost mythic Imperator Furiosa at the end. The rhythms of it are quite different from Fury Road, and therefore the style of film-making is too.

Like the other Mad Max films, Furiosa is deliberately spare on dialogue, and I tell Miller that you could watch it with the sound off and still be able to figure out whats going on, so robust is the visual storytelling.

Oh, thats fantastic you say that, because its the sort of cinema Im really drawn to, because its pure cinema, he says. For me it was best put by Hitchcock who said, I try to make films where they dont have to read the subtitles in Japan. After a shoot, I really like to cut them and to watch them first as silent movies, to see how much story you can apprehend.

Another interesting thing for me is when you add the sound, and how much story you get from sound. So I try to make sure that we make movies that someone who is completely deaf can really get immersed in, and someone who is completely blind can get immersed in, and hopefully those two movies are reasonably close together.

In the middle of the film is that extraordinary action sequence I mentioned earlier, a battle for bounty on the open road. As a massive, chrome-plated, multi-axle truck trundles across the parched and russet outback, it is attacked from all sides by heavily armed bikers and paragliders. On board is a young Furiosa (Taylor-Joy), who displays for the first time the full range of her combat skills.

Once wed mapped it all out in words, and storyboarded it, then we brought in Guy Norris, with whom Ive been working since he was a 21-year-old stuntman on the second Mad Max. He and I, we basically set out to tell this story within the film.

We use a thing called the edge arm, which is like a vehicle with a crane on it, a very agile piece of equipment, run by a great stunt driver, a great crane grip, and a camera operator, three of them all working almost like a three-headed beast to run this camera, which we used on this movie and on Fury Road, and theyre fantastic.

As Furiosa, Taylor-Joy is a compelling action hero, a tight-lipped amazon who says virtually nothing until the last 10 minutes of the movie, but commands the screen whenever she is on it.

Shes in a long tradition of laconic action characters; the Clint Eastwoods, the John Waynes. And also, because for me the pure form of cinema is the silent movies, Im thinking of the silent stars, male and female. You had extraordinary people like Buster Keaton, who not only helped define the language of cinema, but his face and his eyes were so expressive, and subtle. All of the great silent movie stars had that quality, and Anyas got that in spades.

As Dementus, the unhinged road warrior and would-be Alexander of the wasteland, Chris Hemsworth commits fully to his portrayal of a ludicrous and deluded tyrant, sporting bad teeth, a shower curtain for a cape, and a prosthetic beak that makes him look like Peter OToole before his nose job.

Did Peter OToole have a nose job? Miller asks. He did indeed, I tell him, directing him to 1950s theatrical stills which reveal a splendid Connemara honk. Was all of this dress-up, I wonder, intended to ensure that Hemsworth didnt look like Thor?

It wasnt that so much. As I say, wed written a screenplay and done concept art for this film way back, and because Dementus was this imperious, almost Roman-like marauder, the early concept art had him with an aquiline nose. And when Chris was cast, I showed him how he looked, and the pageantry of his behaviour with his chariot.

And he saw the nose and he said, Gee that would be interesting, and, so it came out of that, it wasnt really about getting away from Thor.

And he changed his teeth because nobody really has pearly white teeth in the wasteland. Then he changed his eyes. And so with all of that, his beard and nose and so on, he said that sitting in a make-up chair every morning and seeing somebody quite different in the mirror really helped him get into the role.

Our time is drawing to a close, so I ask Miller if, while making Mad Max on a tiny budget back in 1979, he could ever have imagined hed be making sequels on a massive scale 40-odd years later.

No, he says, laughing, not at all. I didnt even think that Id make another film after the first Mad Max, I found it all so bewildering. But here I am all these years later, still doing it.
Trump biopics Irish producers on its controversial rape scene: We believe in keeping it

The day after the films Cannes premiere, Ruth Treacy and Julianne Forde share why they want it in cinemas before Novembers US election

Jeremy Strong (Roy Cohn) and Sebastian Stan (Donald Trump) in The Apprentice. Photo courtesy of Tailored Films Ltd

Darren Mooney Fri 24 May 2024 at 03:30

Only a few thousand people on the planet have seen The Apprentice, the controversial Donald Trump biopic, but it has become the focal point of fierce discourse  and its subject is threatening legal action.
Lives Outgrown contains songs that burrow deep, inspired by death, grief and the impermanence of relationships

There was much excitement when Portisheads Beth Gibbons announced that she would be releasing a debut solo album, having signed with Domino Records. That news arrived in 2013. The years went by and still no album. Would it ever happen?

Well, here it is. Lives Outgrown arrives freighted with expectation  Portishead, along with Radiohead, Blur and Massive Attack, were one of the best British bands to emerge in the 1990s  and it doesnt disappoint.

Anyone bewitched by Dummy  Portisheads debut album from 1994  wont be surprised to hear that this one unfurls its intrinsic beauty slowly. These are songs that have been painstakingly fashioned  probably over many years  but they dont sound laboured. Some, especially when acoustic guitar is foregrounded, recall the album Out of Season, which she made in 2002 with Talk Talk bassist Paul Rustin Man Webb. Others offer a reminder of Portisheads stately textured sound. All are in service to one of the most distinctive vocalists of her generation.

The soundscape is understated for the most part. Strings and inventive percussion permeate. The latter provides a stark backdrop to Burden of Life. There are unexpected flourishes, such as the presence of a ghostly childrens choir on the eerie Floating on a Moment.

Gibbons has eschewed interviews for this release, but she says the songs are inspired by death, grief and the menopause, and the latter topic informs the troubled Oceans. Fooled ovulation, she sings, but no babe in me.

She also seems preoccupied with the passing of time and the impermanence of relationships. Thats certainly the case on Lost Changes, one of the most beautiful songs she has put her name to. Over a rich sonic palate, with swirling strings at large, she sings All that I want you to want me/ The way that you used to/ And all that I want is to love you/ The way that I used to. On paper, such lyrics seem banal but her delivery renders them special.

Recorded with Talk Talk drummer Lee Harris and ever-busy producer James Ford (whose recent credits include albums from Arctic Monkeys, Blur, Depeche Mode and Pet Shop Boys), these are songs that burrow deep. As with Portishead  whose last album came out 16 years ago  they are tracks that are built to endure.

The hopeful, pastoral Whispering Love with its flutes and birdsong is a veritable ode to peace and nature as she sings of the summer sun, fallow fields and leaves of our tree of life. Its the song that finds Gibbons at her most poetic: Moon time will linger, through the melody/ Of lifes shortening, longing view.

Its a key line, one that captures the spirit of this haunting album: yes, life is short, but theres so much to cherish.
The Nevermets on Channel 4 is even more embarrassing than Naked Attraction as were introduced to a series of that rarest of modern creatures: the innocent

Do not watch The Nevermets expecting the magical moments that sometimes make a programme like First Dates worthwhile. First Dates can work its way through the initial awkwardness of two strangers meeting and, somehow, some of them click.

Then theres Married at First Sight and all the rest of them. God only knows what happens on Love Triangle Australia; I hope I never find out.

Unlike all of the other dating shows, in The Nevermets we are seeing people who are already in relationships with each other when the programme starts. They have maintained long-distance romances. Sarah and Jgoy have been talking on their mobiles, across continents and time zones, several times a day for two years.

Naked Attraction it aint. The Nevermets is much more embarrassing and also, strangely, much more naked.

In The Nevermets we start with the magic, which has grown in the lovers isolation from each other. Geographical separation is very romantic. Now as the voiceover, which is provided by the unconvincing Dawn French, rather disingenuously puts it, they have decided to cross the world to meet each other (because the producers asked them to, maybe?). On the whole, the UK-based Nevermets are, to a man and to a woman, examples of that rarest of modern creatures  the innocent.

In Episode 2, Mazi has been on the phone with the beautiful Dumebi for a long time. He is in Dubai. Dumebi (25) is in London and her mother is the only voice of sanity in the first two episodes. Mazi keeps sending Dumebi photos of himself posing against Lamborghini cars. How many does he have? asks Dumebi, enthralled. It does not seem to occur to her that there might be a lot of Lamborghinis in Dubai, and not all of them, perhaps, owned by Mazi.

Jay is only 17 and is in sixth form college in Somerset. For two years, he has been in daily contact with Veena, who lives in the Indian state of Kerala. They met in a Game of Thrones roleplay session, online (red flag there). He lied to her about his age. Then he lied to his mother about Veenas age. Because Veena is nine years older than him.

What a great time to get on a plane and visit Veena. Jay has never been apart from his parents before. He has never had a girlfriend in real life. He has never been anywhere more foreign than Tenerife. He has never eaten Indian food  not even a takeaway  and favours sausage rolls. He steps off the plane and into what is effectively an engagement party thrown by Veenas mother.

Veena is a social media manager and earns good money; she owns the house in which her mother and grandmother are plotting her marriage. In Indian terms, she is already a bit long in the tooth to be a bride. Veena is saying that all this pressure to marry is ridiculous, but she does nothing to stop it. Rather unfortunately for Jay, the age of consent in India is 18. Therefore this will be a chaste trip. Despite the age difference, it is Veena who seems confused and unable to deal with reality.

Then theres Sarah, who is 38 and a catering assistant. She wants children and the clock is ticking. Jgoy, who lives in the Philippines and is 10 years younger, says hell get her pregnant. And also that he loves her. Sarah is a bit apprehensive about spending a lot of money to go and meet someone in a foreign country on her own. Shes had dire warnings that she will be trafficked as a sex slave  and that was my Nan.

Sarah has to watch the pennies but she is rich compared with Jgoy in Manila. Oh, look at your little room, says Sarah when he brings her to what he has decided will be their bedroom. Sometimes being innocent  of, for example, global inequality  can do more damage than cynicism.

Warning: Sarah and Jgoy from the Nevermets on Channel 4

Sarahs caution is soon justified. He insists on choosing her outfit when they go to see his friends (red flag). His friends turn out to be two sniggering blokes (another red flag) with unfunny dirty jokes. Im going to give up on the red flag thing now, because Sarah and Jgoys entire relationship  even before they met in real life  is just a forest of red flags, as indeed is the whole series. And The Nevermets plough through every single one of them, with only their convictions about true love to sustain them.

There is a dark undertone here of nefarious foreigners taking advantage of innocent Brits.

The modern belief in The One suddenly seems as limiting as the idea that the earth was flat. The series desperately needs one glorious, happy ending.

At the moment, the chances are that it will end in a lot of tears. Isnt there a limit to how many smashed hopes we want to see? There must be a place for all this trust, for all this optimism. Unfortunately, at the moment, it just ends up online. And on TV.
Eamon OConnell: Here are some of the eye-opening tips I learned from a top cattle-health conference to help prevent disease

Simple actions such as reducing the stress levels of our animals will ultimately decrease how often they get sick

Being consistent with milk is vital in preventing stomach ulcers. Photo: David Creedon

Eamon O'Connell Fri 24 May 2024 at 13:51

It was back to school time for me last week when I attended the World Buiatrics Congress.
Bayer AG Chief Executive Officer Bill Anderson said the wave of lawsuits over its widely used weedkiller Roundup is an "existential" threat to the company and farmers.

"The glyphosate litigation topic is an existential topic for our company because it does threaten to remove our ability to continue to innovate for farmers and for food security," Anderson said in a speech at the Executives' Club of Chicago on Thursday, referring to Roundup's key ingredient.

The legal woes have led Bayer to set aside $16 billion to resolve the Roundup suits. About $10 billion of that reserve has been spent so far, a company spokesman said.

Bayer is considering whether to use a controversial legal maneuver, dubbed the Texas Two-Step bankruptcy, in an attempt to settle tens of thousands of US lawsuits claiming Roundup causes cancer, people familiar with the company's thinking told Bloomberg in March. Bayer has vigorously defended its claim that glyphosate and glyphosate-based formulations are safe.

Anderson in his speech called the glyphosate lawsuits without merit and bad for the company and the employees who have lost their jobs as a result.

The chemical conglomerate is spending more on lawsuits than the 2.4 billion euros ($2.6 billion) a year spent on R&D, the CEO said. He said Bayer is the largest R&D investor in agriculture, and the legal issues put at risk the progress needed to feed an exploding world population by mid-century with less water and land.

"This is actually something very serious for American agriculture," Anderson said. "It's been estimated that the cost of groceries for the average family of four in the US would go up by more than 40% if glyphosate were removed from the agriculture system."

Crops genetically modified to withstand the application of glyphosate weedkiller account for almost all of the corn and soybean plantings in the US and Brazil.

Anderson said that despite the US's scientific and regulatory communities giving a green light to glyphosate, the company is still subject to billions of dollars every year in lawsuits. Bayer inherited the Roundup lawsuits through its 2018 purchase of agriculture behemoth Monsanto for $63 billion.

The German company's shares have lost about 72% of their value since the Monsanto purchase. Investor concern has grown about Bayer's liability, eventually leading to the departure of former CEO Werner Baumann. In addition to the legal woes, the company has been grappling with other problems including a weak drug pipeline and high debt.

Bloomberg.
One of the countrys senior church leaders has called for a climate of respect and warned against hate speech in light of peoples differences over Israel and Palestine.

In a statement, Archbishop Michael Jackson of Dublin said everyone is free to hold personal views and convictions on local and global matters. However, he said war brings an accentuation of difference.

It takes difference to the point of untold and irreversible tragedy and destruction of lives and the sustenance of life, Dr Jackson stressed.

Appealing to everyone to respect those who are different from us, he said this is a neighbourhood principle, and a global and human principle.

Urging people to dig deep within themselves in order to develop a climate of respect and reciprocal dignity across all social and community groupings and faiths, he said this was particularly important when matters are so tense and torn between Israel and Palestine.

Hate speech, anti- and pro- language perpetuate and embed negativities. They enable caricature to morph into definition and definition to settle into identity.

"They create the filters of default through which we see others and understand ourselves. This is why they are so dangerous for everyone involved, whether we discern it or not, the Anglican leader said.

He added that the value in which we hold one another is expressed in the language we use which not only shapes discourse but also the psyche.

Dr Jacksons Church of Ireland diocese is linked to the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem which comprises Gaza, the West Bank as well as other parts of the Middle East.

He highlighted that since the October 7th attacks he has sought to be even handed in expressing sorrow, compassion and care for the victims of war and hostilities in the Holy Land.

In recent days he attended a gathering of the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem in Jordan and also attended the inauguration of Rabbi Yoni Wieder as Chief Rabbi of Ireland.

Next week he will welcome Archbishop Hosam Naoum of Jerusalem and a number of clergy from the Middle East to hear about how life has changed for them. He will also be updated on Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City which the Irish diocese is linked to.

An appeal for the hospital in Gaza by Dr Jackson has raised over 216,000 so far.
Billy Keane: The Leinster and Munster rivalry never gets old  some of them are us and some of us are them
Taoiseach Simon Harris (left) and former prime minister of the UK, Gordon Brown arrive at the inaugural Child Poverty and Well-being Summit in Dublin Castle. Photo: PA

There are still far too many Irish children going to bed hungry in a country that is one of the wealthiest in the European Union, the Taoiseach has said.

Simon Harris said he wants to make Ireland the best European country to grow up in.

He made the comments as he hosted the inaugural Child Poverty and Well-being Summit held at Dublin Castle yesterday.

More than 300 participants from across Irish society took part in the event. Leaders from the statutory and non-statutory sector met with policy-makers, service providers, academics and young people in order to chart a new course for Ireland.

Participants discussed how Ireland can play a leadership role in Europe and in the world in its elimination of child poverty.

The views of children and young people were represented through art, music and in an animated video that captures the key concerns of the summits Youth Advisory Group.

Speaking in at the summit, Mr Harris said: Its my ambition as Taoiseach to make sure that we become the best country in Europe to be a child.

I am very conscious standing here today, as the Taoiseach of one of the wealthiest countries in the European Union, that there are still far too many children who go to bed hungry; that there are still far too many children who dont have a roof over their head; that there are still too many children who dont have that opportunity to reach their full potential through no fault of their own.

I am also conscious that we also live in a world in which children are starving. And sadly and quite disgustingly, we live in a world where starvation is now used as a weapon of war. We have a lot of work to do.

Mr Harris was also critical of the delivery of disability services for children in Ireland.

He pledged to break down silos and blame-shifting across government departments.

There is a resourcing issue and Im also convinced there is a silo issue and I dont want to be presiding over the biggest national game of pass the parcel when it comes to childrens disability services, he said.

We have to pull together. It can no longer be a question of, I am not responsible for that, that is an education issue, or health or thats a childrens issue. Children dont care, parents dont care and I dont care.

There is only one Ireland, there is only one set of children with a disability and they need services.

When we find ourselves investing in more money in services, but not meeting people in communities to say these services have significantly improved, that should haunt us.

I am determined to break down silos, blame-shifting and pass the parcel. We have to stop that cycle.

Former British prime minister Gordon Brown, who also spoke at the event, praised Irelands progress in reducing child poverty in recent years.

He told the audience: I want to tell you that the whole of Europe is looking at what youre doing because what has happened over these last few years, is while other countries have seen a rise in child poverty, and sadly that has been the case in my own country.

What you have seen in this country is a fallen child poverty as a result of deliberate decisions, constructive decisions that have been made by government.

When I read the reports of Unicef and the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), they point not just to the fact that Ireland has been doing more, but that you are moving up the league for the provision of childrens services.

And that does not make you complacent, that makes you determined to do more.

But it is important to recognise that where a decision is made to take action, and its organised in such a way that action is actually leading to results on the ground, then you can see the improvement and you can see the case for taking further action in the future.

Addressing the summit, Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman said: I am determined to ensure that every child in Ireland has the best possible start in life.

To achieve this, we must do everything possible to ensure access to key services and supports for all children, including children at risk of poverty or social exclusion, and to break cycles of intergenerational disadvantage.

The lasting impact of disadvantage in early childhood can be seen in intergenerational cycles of poverty and social exclusion.

Equal Start, announced earlier this week, is the new model of government-funded supports to ensure children experiencing disadvantage can access and meaningfully participate in early learning and childcare.
Midlands-North West candidate says Tanaiste hasnt canvassed with him with him but has with others on the ticket

Party leader Micheal Martin was left struggling to control proceedings after candidate Niall Blaney complained that he was being left high and dry.

He accused the Tanaiste of not canvassing with him when he had with others on the ticket.

Mr Martin insisted that it was the right decision to run three candidates in Midlands-North West - Senator Blaney, Mayo-based senator Lisa Chambers and Laois-Offaly TD Barry Cowen.

He insisted the party was "in the mix for two seats" in a constituency where it currently holds none.

Mr Cowen has a lead within polling, followed by Ms Chambers. Mr Blaney finished a close second to Mr Cowen at the selection convention and the party later added he and Ms Chambers to the ticket.

Shortly before the FF launch at the Radisson Blu Hotel in central Dublin, Donegal-based Mr Blaney released an angry press release.

Our party seems to be in panic mode and, after bizarrely adding [sic] three candidates to the ticket, now seems intent on throwing two of them overboard and settling for one seat," he said.

This would mean "giving up on representation for Connacht and the border counties", he warned. Fianna Fail is running six Euro candidates in three constituencies. Five of them have gotten a fair share of national television exposure. Ive been requesting it for the last six weeks and havent been given one opportunity, Mr Blaney said. "I had a reasonable expectation of being on the Katie Hannon show, only to be told that the party had taken me off and nominated another candidate."

Mr Blaney continued his criticisms as he stood by his party leader, saying the Tanaiste had not canvassed with him, while he had with others. Mr Martin told the media he was not going to discuss the "logistics" of the election campaign.

Mr Blaney said at the launch: "Unfortunately, I'm not getting the same support as other candidates are getting in this campaign. And that's a problem for me. Its been four weeks. "I've never had any opportunity on national television yet, and I'm the only candidate of six where that has been the case.

"It's not just about me, it's about the people I represent and the border counties. We need the same opportunity as anybody else.

"If the Tanaiste goes for a canvass with a candidate, he has to do a canvass with all three. And if he does a video with one candidate, he has to do a video with all three. I ask him for equal opportunity and support."

Mr Martin was asked if he would you agree with the comments, but tried to take an RTE question instead - which was also to query his reaction to Senator Blaney's complaints.

He said: "I will deal with the campaign and I will conduct the campaign.

"We will deal with how the campaign gets conducted after the press conference. I'm not going to have a public discussion on the logistics of the campaign.

"But theres huge support for all candidates from the party."

Green launch

The earlier Green Party Euro election launch at Buswell's Hotel in Dublin had its own problems.

Minister of state Ossian Smyth, chairing, twice referred to his MEP colleague sitting alongside as Pauline O'Reilly, a Green Party Senator - and had to be told it was Grace O'Sullivan, the candidate in Ireland South and a sitting member of the European Parliament.

This bizarre moment was followed by another as Ms O'Sulllivan said: "We absolutely condone the Hamas attack on Israel as an act of terrorism." Mr Smyth had to tell her she meant condemn, not condone.
First-time buyers were approved for 2,828 mortgages in April. Stock image

Almost two-thirds of mortgage approvals last month were for first-time buyers, according to data from the Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI).

In all, 4,446 mortgages were approved in April, up 17.7pc on the month before.

The number of mortgages given approval last month jumped 14pc compared to April last year.

First-time buyers were approved for 2,828 mortgages last month. This accounted for 63.6pc of the total, the report from BPFI showed.

This was the second highest share of approvals since the data series began. The record was 64.3pc last May.

BPFI chief executive Brian Hayes said the figures were positive news for first-time-buyer mortgages.

Overall, the report shows a continued rise in mortgage activity, with 49,473 approvals in the 12 months ending April, up 1.12pc compared to the 12 months ending March 2024, he also said.

There were also 898 mover mortgages in April, which represented a fifth of the total.

The BPFI revealed the value of the mortgages that received approval in April had risen almost 20pc on March. It also increased 18.4pc year-on-year.

In all, the April mortgages were valued at 1.3bn, with first-time-buyer mortgages worth 862m.

Activity from first-time buyers has risen as a result of government programmes such as the Help-to-Buy and the First Home shared-equity schemes.

However, buyers are paying more for homes this year as housing prices continue to rise.

BPFI said the average mortgage on second-hand properties for first-time buyers in the first three months of this year was 274,535. This was the 33rd three-month period in which this figure had increased year-on-year.

For mover purchasers, the average mortgage was 327,069.

The latest Residential Property Price Index, published by the Central Statistics Office, revealed prices rose 7.3pc in the year to March.

Values in Dublin were up 7.2pc, with prices across the rest of the country rising 7.4pc.

The median price of a dwelling bought in the period was 333,000.

The BPFI said earlier this month there had been a slowdown in the number of mortgages being drawn down so far this year.

It attributed this decline to switching activity, which fell 53pc in the first three months of this year compared to the same period last year.
The Fianna Fail and Green Party manifestos are clashing on the proposed expansion in free travel for the young.

Fianna Fail wants to improve the DiscoverEU pass, which offers a free interrail ticket and a return flight to and from Ireland.

The Greens also back an expansion of free interrailing, but would rather people sailed to and from this country.

The party says in its Euro elections document it will "lobby for a single SailRail ticket to cover entire journeys to and from continental Europe across multiple transport modes.

At the same time it wants a ban on private jets in the EU and an end to what it says is "aviation fuel's almost total exemption from taxation," which would have a knock-on cost for passengers.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 24th May 2024

It wants free interrail tickets for all 18-year-olds on an annual basis, as does Fianna Fail. Free flying versus sailing is the only difference in approach.

Asked about the Greens' proposal, Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said: "I would not support a tax on aviation, in terms of the impact on citizens.

"I think the focus has to be an innovation through of more environmentally friendly and more sustainable aviation fuel. That's a far more effective way.

"And I think the people that would suffer most would be ordinary people at this particular point in time. Fundamentally I think it's important that we bring people with us and we don't intend to declare war on aviation."

Meanwhile, the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has been urged to oppose proposals to halve the minimum number of pilots in the cockpit during a flight.

EASA is currently evaluating the move on minimum crew which would reduce the number of pilots in the cockpit of a passenger plane from two to one during a flight.

Fine Gael senator Regina Doherty, a Euro candidate for Dublin, said: Pilots across Europe are rightly concerned about proposals for only one pilot to be in the plane during a flight.

"While it may offer big airlines a chance to save money and fly for longer by operating shifts, it will only serve to undermine longstanding safety procedures in the airline sector.

Air travel is one of the safest ways to travel long distances. This is largely due to the fact that if something were to happen to a pilot during a flight, there would be another one on hand to step in."
But her department declines to be drawn on who will have benefits reduced in three months time

Heather Humphreys is working with colleagues on the measures. Photo: PA

More than 8,000 Ukrainian refugees living on pensions and disability welfare payments are at risk of having their supports slashed to below 40 a week.

Thousands of elderly Ukrainian refugees relying on weekly state supports which Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys plans to cut to 38.80 in less than three months.

Official data shows there are 8,232 Ukrainian refugees receiving a state pension or disability payment.

There are 7,919 Ukrainian over-65s seeking refuge here while their country is under attack from Russia.

Last week, with local and European elections approaching on June 7, Ms Humphreys announced plans to cut welfare for 27,000 Ukrainian refugees, who are in State-provided accommodation, within the next three months.

She has made no public comment on how the plan will work or how refugees will be selected to have their money cut.

The Department of Social Protection declined to say how many of the more than 8,000 Ukrainians in receipt of pensions or disability payments will have their benefits reduced.

The refugees were welcomed to Ireland by Ms Humphreys and her government colleagues two years ago when Russian president Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Ukrainians fleeing the war were told they would be entitled to accommodation, full state welfare and medical cards when they arrived here.

The move resulted in more than 100,000 Ukrainians arriving in Ireland. Since March, the refugees were told they would only be entitled to 38.80 a week and provided with three months state accommodation.

The decision to cut payments came as the Government struggled to tackle the influx of people to Ireland seeking international protection as the elections approached.

The Minister for Social Protection will now work together with the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth on the operational arrangements to give effect to this change, with an estimated 12-week lead-in time to allow details to be finalised and notice to be provided to the people affected, her spokesperson said.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 24th May 2024

A cabinet committee on immigration this week heard how almost 100 people have been prosecuted this year for arriving into Ireland without a passport.

The committee also heard the number of those arriving without travel documentation was down 17pc on the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the number of people who have been deported after failing to secure international protection is up by 50pc.

Taoiseach Simon Harris and ministers were told by Justice Minister Helen McEntee that plans to charter deportation flights would begin before the end of the year.

The Government is planning a major investment in immigration services in an attempt to tackle the record level of asylum-seekers arriving here.

This will include more people working in the International Protection Office (IPO), the International Protection Appeals Tribunal, border management in Dublin Airport and Department of Justice.

The committee was told that if staffing in immigration services was not urgently increased then there could be 40,000 active asylum cases in the country by the end of the year.

At present, there are 28,300 international protection cases being handled by immigration services.

Last year, 13,500 people applied for asylum here  a fourfold increase on what the Government expected. This year, around 1,800 people a month are seeking international protection.

The Government want to enhance the already-accelerated asylum review system operated by the IPO to allow 1,800 determinations on cases to be made every month by the end of this year.

This will increase to 2,200 decisions made on applications by the middle of next year. It is hoped this will result in the number of active cases dropping to 10,500.

The accelerated processing system introduced in 2022 has resulted in a halving of the number of applications from those from countries deemed safe.

It is expected that the number of cases heard by the tribunal will also climb to 1,250 next year.

The number of staff in the IPO is forecast to rise from 490 to 620 next year while the tribunal will get 17 full-time members and 200 part-time ones, along with 175 staff.

The Government is to draft legislation to broaden the criteria to become a decision maker on asylum appeals.

Both agencies are set to get increased office space as part of the ramping up of immigration services. There are also plans to hold appeals online to allow for more capacity in the system.

The number of Department of Justice staff handling deportations is set to rise from 72 to 119 by next year.
Voters in Ireland will cast their votes on Friday, June 7, which will then be counted from Saturday, June 8. (PA)

Voters in Ireland will head to the polls on Friday, June 7 as they submit their ballots for both the local and European elections.

Those in Limerick will also have the option to vote in the mayoral election, which will see the countrys first Democratically Elected Mayor (DEM).

Here is everything you need to know on the day, from registration up until you cast your votes and when the count takes place.

Local Elections

Local elections are held in Ireland every five years to elect councillors as public representatives on local authorities, of which there are 31, including a mix of county and city councils. Each council has a certain amount of seats to be filled.

As you prepare to vote in the local elections, you will firstly need to check if you are eligible to vote.

In order to cast a vote, you must meet the following requirements:

Be over 18 years of age

Live in the local electoral area

Be listed on the Register of Electors

If you wish to check if you are on the Electoral Register, visit checktheregister.ie or enquire at a local authority office.

If you are not on the Electoral Register, the deadline for registering yourself for the upcoming elections has now passed (May 20th).

A polling information card will be sent to your address with details of your local polling station.

It is important to bring this with you when you go to vote and a form of ID, whether passport, drivers licence, public service card or employee or student card.

When you arrive at the polling station on June 7, which will be open from 7am to 10pm you will be asked for your name and address and possibly a valid form of ID. If polling staff are satisfied, your polling card will be stamped.

This is then taken into the voting booth.

The ballot paper shows a list of names in alphabetical order, with party identification beside them and an image of each candidate.

A box on the right of each candidates name must be marked. Mark a 1 in the box of your first choice, a 2 in the next and so on.

Denoting a 2 will mean that if your first choice is already elected or excluded in the count, then your vote will go to the second choice, and so on.

Leave empty boxes of candidates you do not wish to vote for.

Limerick Mayoral Election

The people of Limerick will vote for Irelands first-ever directly elected Mayor on June 7.

This takes place following a 2019 plebiscite in which the people of Limerick city and county voted in favour of a proposal for a directly elected Mayor.

The directly elected Mayor of Limerick will be the first Mayor with executive powers set out in legislation, remain in office for five years, which is the same electoral cycle as local councillors and can serve a maximum of two terms of office.

These two terms can be consecutive or non-consecutively.

Check if you are registered to vote in the mayoral election by visiting www.checktheregister.ie by contacting Limerick City or County Council.

Once you arrive, polling staff will check your ID and stamp your ballot, which is separate to your local and EU elections ballot.

Number your preferences sequentially, just as in the local elections.

European Parliament Elections

Elections to the European Parliament are also taking place on Friday, June 7.

EU citizens choose the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) who will represent their interests in the European Parliament.

Together with government representatives from 27 EU Member States, MEPs shape and decide on new laws that influence lives across the European Union. MEPs are elected according to national electoral systems.

European Parliament elections take place every five years.

Voters in Ireland will elect 14 MEPs in 2024, one more than in the 2019 elections. A total of 720 MEPs will be elected in June 2024.

What are the EU constituencies for Ireland?

Ireland is divided into three constituencies for European elections:

Dublin  elects 4 MEPS

South  elects 5 MEPS

Midlands-North-West  elects 5 MEPS

Preparing to vote in a European election

Irish citizens aged 18 and over, who are on the electoral register, can vote in the European election.

Irish citizens who are living in another EU country can vote in that country.

If you are from another EU Member State and living in Ireland, you can vote in the European election in Ireland.

To do so your name has to be on the register of electors. If you are an EU citizen but have not registered to vote at a previous European election in Ireland you must apply for registration and complete a statutory declaration form, EP1.

The statutory declarations are sent to your home Member State to avoid duplicate voting.

In the European elections, you cannot vote in more than one constituency or country.

The deadline to register and update your details for in-person voting for the elections taking place on June 7 has now passed (May 20).

The deadline for postal and special voting arrangements for the elections has now passed.

Voting in the European election

Voting in the European elections is done the same way as in the local elections.

After showing ID and receiving your stamp on your ballot paper, make sure when voting you start with 1 then 2 then 3 and so on.

When you have voted you should fold your ballot paper, return and place it into the ballot box at the same station.

Counting of votes in local, EU and Limerick mayoral elections

From Saturday, June 8, all of the votes are sorted and counted.

A count is organised and lead by the local returning officer in each constituency.

This official will have arranged that the count is held in a community hall or hotel, which will then be referred to as 'the count centre.

The results for the local, EU and Limerick mayoral elections will be announced in the days after the count.
Almost 30pc surveyed said additional work expected of them was 'unsustainable'. Photo: Getty

Senior civil servants say there is an expectation to go above and beyond, as more than three-quarters revealed they receive emails and text messages outside working hours.

A total of 60pc said they have been contacted about work while on leave.

However, members of the Association of Higher and Civil Public Servants (AHCPS) do not get paid overtime.

The survey results were revealed as members of the union are set to debate motions today calling for stronger right to disconnect policies in the workplace at their annual conference in Dublin.

One in three members said they regularly work beyond their required hours, with almost half working six or more hours extra a week.

A total of 83pc said they receive emails and text messages outside of working hours.

AHCPS general secretary Ciaran Rohan said delegates  who are mainly in the principal officer grade  will discuss the need for clarity around the right to disconnect.

He said the survey demonstrates the need for clearer policies in the workplace.

There is a concerning narrative developing in the world of work which insinuates that conducting your duties within working hours is quietly quitting, he said.

He said it is clear from the responses from members that the expectation to go above and beyond is creating an unsustainable working environment.

Mr Rohan said these are matters that should be part of the engagement the union has with government departments.

Its a source of frustration to us, and our members, that engagement from some departments has fallen short of what should be expected as part of functioning industrial relations, and we are calling for a return to genuine consultation and dialogue, he said.

A third of those surveyed said their hours of work do not reasonably align with their required working hours. Of these, almost 30pc said they work more than eight hours extra a week.

Of those that said they receive emails and texts outside working hours, 36pc said they feel compelled to respond.

Almost 30pc said additional work expected of them was unsustainable and nearly 40pc said the demands for out-of-hours work is a resourcing issue.

A total of 27pc blamed the blurring of boundaries created by hybrid working.

Delegates of the associations 4,000 civil servants and manager members across 50 branches in the commercial and non-commercial state sector will discuss motions calling for improved policies on miscarriage, fertility treatment and domestic violence.

Other motions seek anti-racist and inclusive work cultures and equality in the public service.

The Department of Education branch is set to table a motion, calling on members to support inclusion of socio-economic status as a new ground for discrimination under Irish law.

Delegates will also hear about alleged failures by the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and some departments to engage in proper industrial relations.

A number of motions call for a return to genuine consultation and dialogue.
'Our students deserve better' - overcrowded school is forced to teach students in hall and staff room

Educate Together establishment in Fermoy in dire need of space for its 87 pupils as demand for places grows

Pupils squeeze into a classroom at Fermoy Educate Together

Ralph Riegel Fri 24 May 2024 at 03:30

A severe lack of space has resulted in a primary school having to teach students in the hallway and staff room, with the situation expected to get worse as demand rises for places for the 2024-2025 academic year.
DCU vice president of research Professor John Doyle has calculated the cost of a united Ireland at 25 billion over 10 years (Kyran OBrien/DCU)

A recent report which suggested that a united Ireland would cost 400 billion is widely inaccurate, a leading academic has contended.

Last month, a report from the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) calculated the cost of unification at 20 billion a year for two decades.

The analysis took into account the current level of funding Northern Ireland receives from the British Government, as well as the share of UK national debt it presumed the province would carry into a unified state.

It was authored by Prof John FitzGerald, adjunct professor at Trinity College Dublin, and DCU economics professor Edgar Morgenroth.

However, DCUs vice president of research cast significant doubt on the study on Thursday as he calculated a true total of 25 billion spread across 10 years.

Prof John Doyle told the Oireachtas Committee on the Good Friday Agreement that the IIEA study contains significant errors and is based on entirely unreasonable assumptions.

He added: Consequently, the figures in the report are not even a worst-case scenario  they are just wrong.

Outlining his main objections, Prof Doyle said that the IIEA report adds more than 4.2 billion to the annual cost of unity through increasing public sector wages to Republic of Ireland levels.

However, he said this made no allowance for the taxes (which would be overwhelmingly at the higher rate of 40pc), PRSI (4pc) and pension contributions (expected to be around 10pc) to be paid on that increase.

Prof Doyles calculations reduce the real cost of salary increases by 2.2 billion annually.

A defaced road sign on the border (Niall Carson/PA)

Furthermore, he said it was unrealistic and unnecessary to suggest that public-sector pay would immediately increase to Republic of Ireland levels in year one.

Merging salary levels over 15 years  half the time taken by Germany  would mean a cost of approximately 133 million in year one, rising on average by that amount each year.

The IIEA report includes an annual cost of 3.8 billion to bring average pensions in NI up to average rates in the Republic.

However, Prof Doyle said that it was highly unlikely to assume the state would cover the entire cost of the increase and that the figure again failed to account for tax to be paid on the pensions of those with higher outcomes.

He calculated the true cost at 400 million euros per annum.

Prof Doyle, who has expertise in cross-border studies, said the IIEA report uncritically uses the UK Governments figure for a subvention to Northern Ireland of 10 billion as a starting point for the fiscal balance of a united state.

It completely ignores recent research on this issue. For example, it includes the full cost of both state debt and pensions, currently paid by the UK, and which are part of the UK subvention figure.

It is impossible in reality, that after negotiations between the Irish and British Governments, and where the British side abandon all responsibility for paying pensions to those who have paid national insurance or employer-based public sector pension contributions, that the Irish side would then volunteer to pay a pro-rate share of UK state debt, for which they have no legal liability.

This is not a question of the debt being waived, as the IIEA report suggests. The state debt is owed by the UK and not by Ireland or Northern Ireland.

Prof Doyle said it is not believable that the Government of a united Ireland would agree to be left with liability for both debt and pensions.

Additionally, he told committee members that the previous study excluded any analysis of economic growth after unification and contained assumptions that other areas would not change.

It assumes that with the same political system, EU membership, policy framework, education system and tax regime, that NI would not economically converge with the South.

This is a very unlikely outcome. Why would Belfast perform so much worse than Cork and Kerry with the same EU access, policies, education and tax system?

Prof Doyle put forward his own calculations which would see Northern Ireland running a surplus after approximately a decade.

He told the committee that the opening deficit for Northern Ireland in a United Ireland would be 1.5 billion, taking account of debt, pensions, defence and tax changes.

He also said there would be an increase in public spending of a further one billion euros per annum to cover the cost of likely policy decisions, including to state pensions and public-sector salaries.

An increase in the underlying growth rate in Northern Ireland, of 2pc above recent long-term patterns would see the costs of transition covered and the fiscal deficit ended in approximately 10 years, after which Northern Ireland would run a surplus.

In this case, the level of transition costs can be covered by the Irish state, through a modest increase in borrowing or taxation.

Seamus McGuinness, adjunct professor at TCD and research co-ordinator with the Economic and Social Research Institute, also told the committee the IIEAs 20 billion per year figure was not plausible.

Prof McGuinness added: We do not believe the figures in that report represent a realistic scenario that would feasibly occur.

The IIEA has been contacted for comment.
The Government will be asked to roll out a four day week for civil servants in up to three departments on a trial basis.

Ciaran Rohan, general secretary of the Association of Higher Civil and Public Servants, said his union and Forsa will seek a pilot scheme.

Civil servants would get the same pay as they would for working a five-day week.

Mr Rohan was speaking after delegates at the unions annual conference debated a motion calling for a compressed four-day week in Dublin today.

The motion, tabled by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage branch, sought a pilot of a four day week for all feasible grades across the civil service.

However, the motion was remitted back to the unions executive as it is not its current policy to seek a compressed four-day week. This would mean that civil servants carry out five days work in four days.

Mr Rohan said the union wants to achieve a four-day week for the same pay.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 24th May 2024

He said the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform rejected the proposal last year when it was discussed at an internal industrial relations body known as the General Council.

When asked if he believes a trial of a four-day working arrangement is likely he said: I think theres no reason why it cant.

Were just looking for a pilot scheme. If the outcomes arent good, so be it.

He said a pilot scheme of a four-day week had been very successful in the private sector and the outcomes should be evaluated in the civil service.

We probably have to look at it in two or three departments to get a look across the different types of work, he said. The outcome of the pilot study was very positive for families. It gave workers a better work-life balance and there was a better outcome for the employer. He said the unions may refer their claim back to the General Council or ask a third-party mediator to intervene.

Lisa Allen warned delegates that new legislation to change the status of civil servants working in An Garda Siochana to public servants will set a very dangerous precedent. She said 35pc of senior managers have been lost in the last year.

Although the legislation says they should not be placed on less favourable terms, she said they will not have access to higher pay scales, promotional competitions, EU jobs, or mobility arrangements that allow them to move to other civil service departments or agencies.

Ms Allen said the essence of the motion is that civil servants in an Garda Siochana are going to be made pubic servants by Fempi-style legislation.

This has never been done before and it sets a very dangerous precedent for all civil servants, she said. To say our membership is disappointed, angry and frustrated is an understatement If this can be done to one cohort of civil servants, it can be done to any sector, It can be done to anyone in this room, she said.

Billy Thompson, assistant general secretary of the union, said it was important to acknowledge Justice Minister Helen MacEntees role in deferring the move for two years, although it does not change the fact that the train is coming down the track.

Delegates backed motions calling for special leave for staff experiencing the loss of miscarriage, and fertility related issues.

They backed a motion calling for domestic violence leave to be doubled from five to ten days. A claim is set to be lodged with civil service management for a bonus payment for staff who carry out significant work on the 2026 Irish Presidency of the EU, after a motion was passed on the issue.

Delegates also backed a motion that said the volume of work carried out outside working hours is too high. They instructed the executive committee to raise the issue and ensure the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform re-issues guidance to all staff.
A 'Feel the Force' Star Wars festival planned for a west Cork town has succeeded beyond the organisers' wildest dreams - with people set to attend from all over Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, the US and Europe with even the Malaysian Embassy in Dublin posting on social media about the unique event.

The festival takes place over the June bank holiday weekend - and will be the biggest exhibition in Ireland ever staged on George Lucas' space odyssey.

Brainchild of costume designer and YouTuber Nuri 'Newry' Bakry, the 'Feel the Force' festival in Dunmanway, Co Cork has captured the imagination of the local community with hundreds volunteering to get involved in the programme.

The festival boasts a theme of 'All Tribes Welcome' - and it will feature street activities by groups of cosplayers in replica StormTrooper, Tusken Raider and Rebel Alliance costumes from the space epic.

Dunmanway shops will also be decked out in various Star Wars regalia.

The event developed from what was supposed to be a small exhibition last year as part of the Dunmanway Arts Festival.

Nuri boasts one of the world's greatest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia.

His collection spans all nine episodes of the space odyssey which exploded in popularity from its debut in 1977.

Such is the scale of Nuri's collection that it has generated headlines worldwide.

He also has friends in some of the world's leading costume props firms, including companies that do specialised work at Pinewood Studios in the UK.

Nuri was taken aback by the enormous interest in the 2023 exhibition and decided to take it a step further with a dedicated galactic festival in the west Cork town.

Such sci-fi gatherings in the US are enormously popular and generate millions of dollars for the tourism sector.

Nuri is hopeful Dunmanway's 'Feel the Force' festival can become an annual event.

"It really was amazing last year," he said.

"There were people arriving wearing Star Wars T-shirts and costumes. People travelled from all over Ireland. I don't think any of us expected that enormous level of interest."

His wife, Caroline, said the special Star Wars festival on June 1-2 was organised in response to that enormous demand - with major overseas interest now being expressed thanks to social media.

"If you build it, they will come," she joked.

"Even the local GP is a Star Wars fan and everyone here is very excited about the June event."

Caroline said the 'jewel in the crown' of the festival programme will be a precise replica of Queen Amidala's costume and throne.

Nuri explained that, because of its complexity and design demands, Queen Amidala's throne and costume is rarely attempted outside the giant sci-fi conventions in the US.

Of course, Queen Amidala - also known as Padme - occupies a central role in the Star Wars story as the wife of Darth Vader aka Anakin Skywalker and the mother of Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia.

Dunmanway will boast the Queen Amidala feature thanks to the painstaking work of Nuri, Caroline and award-winning Cork dress designer Gwen McGuirk.

The public highlight of the festival will be a range of cosplay events where Star Wars fans can dress in costume and take part in a range of local activities.

Promotions of the event have even involved the local Garda Sergeant Chris Brosnan being photographed questioning a Stormtrooper at the festival launch.

Both Nuri and Caroline have ensured that there are also a range of activities for children to ensure would-be-Jedis of all age groups are catered for.

Festival organisers hope that the unique cosplay initiative will transform the west Cork town into something akin to a scene from 'Return of the Jedi' or 'Revenge of the Sith'.

Interest in Star Wars material has soared in Ireland since the film franchise included scenes in its third trilogy from special sets in Kerry, west Cork and Donegal.

Parts of Star Wars: Episodes VII and VIII were filmed on location in Ireland.

Filming with a cast and crew of more than 260 took place over the summer of 2016 at Brow Head just off the Mizen Peninsula in west Cork, on Skellig Michael in Kerry and on the Inishowen peninsula in Donegal. Both Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and Daisy Ridley (Rey) filmed extensive scenes around Ireland.

Skellig Michael featured as a critical closing scene in Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens.

An isolated headland near Dingle was transformed into a Jedi Temple complex - with Kerry, Cork and Donegal enjoying a major tourism boom as a result.

Such was the enormous global interest in the third instalment of the Star Wars franchise that Irish tourism chiefs launched an ambitious advertising campaign in cinemas to promote the Wild Atlantic Way and its major connections to the films.
China "powering ahead" in key sectors -- leading management institute

Xinhua) 13:32, May 24, 2024

GENEVA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The "2024 Future Readiness Indicator" report by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) showed that China is powering ahead in key industries.

"The competitiveness across all three sectors is heating up," Howard Yu, director of the Switzerland-based IMD Center for Future Readiness, told Xinhua on the sidelines of the report's launch.

The report ranks 88 of the world's largest finance, automotive and consumer packaged goods companies in terms of their resilience.

In financial services, it showed that Mastercard, Visa, DBS and JPMorgan continue to stay ahead of competitors through partnerships, acquisitions, and that there is an increased focus on internal innovation.

Meanwhile, in the automotive sector, Tesla holds onto the lead in electric vehicle (EV) auto ranking, but its uncontested leadership is being challenged on multiple fronts.

China's electric vehicle maker BYD makes noteworthy progress as Chinese manufacturers' progress signals serious competition to established automakers, said the report.

"From a Chinese perspective, auto is definitely a huge winner. Since 2022, Chinese automakers have really been ramping up their future readiness compared to other traditional car plays such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Toyota," Yu said.

"A company like BYD keeps improving its business performance both in the short term as well as in the long run. We see a lot of meaningful innovation coming out from China in this sector," he said.

Other Chinese automakers, including Geely, NIO, and Li Auto, all command a significant price advantage over Western competitors, Yu said.

In consumer packaged goods, L'Oreal pulled ahead of industry titans Coca-Cola, P&G and Nestle by embracing technological innovation at an unprecedented scale to meet the demands of the modern consumer, the report said.

"In consumer packaged goods, whether it's personalization, omnichannel or experiential shopping, China again leads the way. Chinese consumers are very demanding. Whether it's Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble or L'Oreal, the way they think about the Chinese market is extraordinary," Yu said.

"Goods and business models are basically invented in China before the rest of the world. Many are coming out from China because e-commerce is so much more advanced than in other markets," he added.

The scholar said that the innovations of Chinese companies are now going global.

"It's very interesting to see the type of innovation that domestic companies are able to embrace and scale. These innovations do not just stay in China, but they now spread across borders and go international. I think it's imperative for Chinese companies to go global," he said.

To thrive, companies must prioritize technological innovation, cater to the personalized experiences consumers crave, and remain adaptable, the report concluded.

To measure future readiness, IMD assessed the financial performance of organizations, their investment in growth and innovation, leadership and organizational culture, operational efficiency, as well as the market position and competitive dynamics.

IMD is a renowned business school with campuses in Lausanne, Switzerland, and Singapore. It has an in-country team in Shenzhen, China.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Seller Neal Sweeney explains what drew him to the 1820s three-storey Georgian house, and reveals a mishap that wouldnt be out of place in Only Fools and Horses

The living room with views through to the kitchen

Price: 850,000

Agents: Savills (01) 618300 / REA Potterton (046) 943 1391

The Pope ruled his own nation state for a thousand years and at the very end, as it unravelled, a thousand Irish recruits raised by the archbishop of Dublin were rushed to Italy to defend it.

From the 700s until 1860, the nation that was the Papal States covered an area half the size of Ireland with a population of over three million. That territory covered Rome, Romagna, Marche, Umbria, Marittima E Compagna and until 1791, Avignon in France.

But as the Italian Unification movement gathered ground in 1859 under Garibaldi, the pro-unification state of Piedmont Sardinia threatened to invade the Popes turf from the north. In stepped the formidable Archbishop of Dublin and top Vatican diplomat Paul Cullen, who would later become Irelands first-ever cardinal.

Cullen adapted to the role of recruitment sergeant and feverishly began mustering a volunteer force from Ireland to beef up the Popes tiny army, in the hope of providing a semblance of defence.

Around 1,300 Irish men answered the call alongside volunteers from many other countries but the numbers lining up alongside the famed Swiss Guards were piffling compared with the forces arrayed against them, including those of Piedmont Sardinia, recently battle-hardened in the Crimean War.

A few hundred Irishmen left on reaching Rome after encountering ramshackle organisation and being given surplus Austrian uniforms instead of the new Irish green kits they were promised. But when Piedmont invaded, its troops got more of a fight than they had reckoned on.

The 1,000 Irish in particular, under Major Myles OReillys St Patricks Battalion got properly stuck in. They were sent to defend Perugia, Spoleto, Ancona and Castelfidardo. Hopelessly outnumbered, they were pushed back, despite putting in a good account of themselves.

Captured, the survivors were rounded up and transported via Genoa to Cork where they received a heros welcome. The Papal States were reduced to the province of Lazio and later in 1870, squeezed back to the tiny Vatican City boundaries we know today.

Paul Cullen was the first Irish cardinal

Cardinal Cullen was regarded as being a capable, shrewd but aloof individual with a particular devotion to education and dogma. Born in Kildare to a prosperous tenant farming family, he was educated by the Quakers and at 17, went to study in Rome where he became a leading scholar and diplomat. He was ordained there in 1829.

Remaining in Rome over many years and quickly grasping the Italian language, he became a powerful and invaluable go-between for the Pope in the affairs of the English-speaking world in particular.

Though forgotten by history, Cullen is often cited as being the third most powerful Irishman of the 19th century after Daniel OConnell and Charles Stewart Parnell. Rapidly anti-British but also equally ferociously anti-Fenian, he favoured a constitutional route to independence.

In the 1850s he established the Catholic University of Ireland, which would ultimately become UCD. In 1866, the Pope repaid Cullen for his loyalty and made him the very first Irish cardinal.

Cullen was also noted for his large contribution to the Vaticans definition of papal infallibility when it was debated within the First Vatican Council in 1870.

Between the parties who argued that the Pope was utterly infallible and those against, Cullen managed to secure the middle present ground: that the Pope is (mostly) infallible.

He was born near Athy in 1803, his father Hugh and uncle Paul had both been United Irishmen. His uncle Paul, after whom he was named, was executed by the British in 1798 and his own father narrowly avoided a death sentence.

As the penal laws were repealed, the family began to buy farmland and in 1841, purchased Liscarton House in Navan, Co Meath, on the banks of the Blackwater, along with some surrounding land.

The property has direct river access to the Blackwater

Around this time, Paul Cullen had secured the paid position of head of the Irish College in Rome, and it is possible that he contributed to the familys purchase.

The 1820s three-storey Georgian house had been attached to neighbouring Liscarton Castle, perhaps built at a dower. At this point, it would have had a working corn mill attached, along with lime kilns. Cullen died in Dublin 12 years later and is buried in Clonliffe.

The McKnight family owned Liscarton House when they bred the winner of the 1972 Irish Grand National. Dim Wit was trained by the great Paddy Mullins, father of Willie, Tom and Tony. Dim Wit was jockeyed by Matt Curran on the big day.

The living room with views through to the kitchen

In 2006, the property was bought by Neal Sweeney, an Athboy-born businessman who had previously been living in Clonee. I was looking for a life in the country.

It came up for sale and I was lucky to buy it on my birthday, the 23rd of October in that year. It was in fair condition but dated. Structurally, it was mostly good but the roof needed some work.

An engineer by trade, Sweeney got going on the restoration himself. It needed some slates, battens and laths replaced. But its all handcrafted cut trusses and supports in solid oak, with not a nail anywhere. Inside, I installed a few wood stoves and then got the painters in.

And with his installation of two large, authentic Waterford Crystal chandeliers bought from the previous owners, Sweeney experienced his own version of a famous Only Fools and Horses episode.

When I got upstairs to the supporting beam, I pulled the chandelier up through the hole from below and thought it felt extraordinarily heavy. I bolted it into place.

When I went back downstairs I found I had hooked the folding ladder with the chandelier and now the ladder was hanging up in the air. It was so well attached that I had to go back up, unscrew the nut and let it down again to get it unattached. And then go back up and attach the chandelier again, he says.

Locals enthralled him with tales of a more explosive mishap at the property in the 1960s. The mill hadnt been in use for a hundred years, so for some reason, they decided to blow it up. Gelignite was legal back then.

Unfortunately, after packing the mill with explosives inside, they had it sealed up. There were air pockets trapped inside and they had failed to ensure the explosion had exit channels.

So when they set it off, the blast was so powerful that it blew the whole roof off the outbuilding block nearby. To this day, it has a zinc roof rather than tiles.

The bright hallway

Sweeney describes his 18 years in residence as a ball but now he has his eye on a smaller project in Athboy, his home town, and has placed Liscarton on the market.

The house he is putting up for sale is a good example of a period Georgian, with most of its integrity intact. Just as when he bought it in 2006, it would suit someone looking for a life in the country but not too far from the city.

Liscarton House, on five and a half acres, is within a five minute drive of Navan town, 15 minutes from Kells and about 20 minutes from Slane. Dublin city centre is 33 miles away.

The drawing room

Accommodation includes an entrance hall, a drawing room, a living room, a kitchen and a dining room which comes with an oil-fired Aga and a utility room located off it. On this floor, there is also a sunroom and a guest WC.

On the first floor, the master bedroom has its own ensuite as well as a walk-in wardrobe. There are three more double bedrooms as well as the family bathroom, which comes with a classic stand-alone cast iron tub.

The spacious bathroom

Theres quite a bit of potential in the stone outbuildings. These include nine stables, a tack room, a feed room, a boiler house and various stores.

Theres also direct river access to the Blackwater. The two largest chandeliers which Neal Sweeney bought from the previous owners are available for sale separately.

Liscarton House is being sold by joint agents Savills and REA Potterton, with offers sought in the region of 850,000.
The hit show set in Englands Regency era has inspired its very own aesthetic  heres how to add a touch of its style to your space

The Bridgerton aesthetic has taken the world by storm. Ever since the Netflix series first hit our screens in 2020, the super-saturated Regency drama has delivered a heady cocktail of splendid interiors and high romance. Now the third season is upon us with Penelope Featherington (our very own Nicola Coughlan) in the spotlight. All eyes are on the fainting couch and who will land on it! Many eyes are on the fainting couch itself, or at least a modern version of that piece of furniture. Because Regencycore, the trend inspired by Bridgerton, has embedded and taken root. Lets keep the wisteria flying!

Regency-style Marquise armchair from La Maison London

The transition from television to trend involves several leaps of imagination. Bridgerton is set in the high society (known as the ton) of Englands Regency era (1811-1820) but the series is American and based on the novels of Julia Quinn, who is also American.

These many lenses have resulted in a set design thats meticulous in historical detail, but also fantastical. Like the celebrity culture of today, the ton of Regency England was far removed from the real world. Unless you live in a Georgian mansion, your home is unlikely to resemble theirs.

Jen Connells Regencycore room for DFS at Ideal Home Show. Photo: Jessica Glynn

Jen Connell, interiors enthusiast and early adopter, designed a Regencycore room set for DFS at the Ideal Home Show in 2022. Over the past two years, shes seen the style evolve. The colour palette is a huge factor, she says. It started out very sugary sweet. In the third season theyre exploring darker tones.

In a video interview for Architectural Digest, Bridgertons set designer Alison Gartshore explains how the palette of each home reflects the character of the family within. As the narrative flips from one home to another, the decor reminds the viewers where they are and what to expect.

French Bedroom Versailles gold console table

Initially we were excited about the style-over-substance aesthetic, Connell says. Thats always a risky move but, with everything thats been going on in the world, you can see why people were so enamoured.

The historical flowering of Regency design and architecture took place at a time of poverty, protest and war. Something similar may be happening here. Connells solution is to lean into trends that align with your own interests and consider the practicality of any major purchase. Sometimes youre logical about furniture and sometimes you just fall in love. If you do, find a use for it.

Regency-inspired interior by Catherine Carton

Since 2022, the high street has caught up with the Regencycore trend. Sofologys Bridgerton sofa (899 / 1,049 for a three seater) is an interesting hybrid of Chesterfield design and modern expectations of comfort. And Bridgerton by Catherine Lansfield, a range of floral fabrics (from 25 for a single duvet cover set) is available from many stores. OConnell likes the DFS Windsor sofa (1,919 for a three-seater) which she used in her 2022 room set, but also flags the brands Thornton floral bedframe (1,495) and Charlbury accent chair (969).

These combine well with antiques. Connells most recent charity shop haul included a vase (5) that turned out to be designed by Constance Spry, typically sold in antique shops for around 2,000. Its not a Regency piece but, being genuinely old, adds depth and character. And its good for flowers, which are key to the Bridgerton aesthetic.

Bed and decor from French Bedroom Company

One of the best off-shoots of Regencycore is the way its inspired an interest in flower arranging, Connell says. Ive become more involved in it myself and I love seeing the younger generation on TikTok learning the names of flowers.

The Wisteria collection of table linen from The Designed Table (55 for a runner) brings a touch of Bridgerton to a tablescape without looking contrived. Theres plenty within the style for people to express themselves with respect for design history and the value of second hand pieces and hand-me-downs.

Catherine Carton

Theres also a strong case for DIY. Catherine Carton of Dainty Dress Diaries is an advocate for pretty interiors, decorating on a budget, and doing the kind of work that would traditionally have required a handyman or a husband. Her new book, Heart & Home (22 from OBrien Press), includes 50 DIY projects.

Shes a fan of the Bridgerton series, but recognises that some aspects of Regencycore are more achievable than others. Unless its a period property, window treatments with elaborate draping wont suit most Irish homes, she says. We lack the ceiling height.

Roman blinds are a more practical alternative, or curtains made from salvaged fabric.

Bed and decor from French Bedroom Company

Another issue is clutter. Bridgerton rooms, monumental in scale, can comfortably contain many pieces of furniture. In a standard Irish home, where every item needs to pull its weight, multiple side tables and chaise lounges quickly become too much.

The chaise longue is elegant, but exceptionally greedy on space. Carton recommends that you choose pieces you like best within the style, but limit yourself to those that are functional in your home. Otherwise it could look like a dressed-up room set.

The Bridgerton sofa by Sofology

From a DIY perspective, Carton suggests adding period character with wallpaper, wainscoting, or panelling. The whole Bridgerton thing is about attention to detail and lovely chunky skirting boards never really go out of style.

While such projects are expensive to have done professionally, she undertakes them herself and explains how in her book. Her instructions are clear and encouraging, even for the DIY-phobic. Tackling these jobs yourself will save you some money that you can put towards something more expensive, she says.

Then, look to the charity shops. A few weeks ago, she got lucky in the NCBI charity warehouse in Cherry Orchard, Ballyfermot Road, Dublin. I found a second-hand wooden writing desk  its very Bridgerton! The desk was made around 1910, but the look is consistent with some of the wooden pieces in the series. Carton had the good sense not to embellish it.

Catherine Cartons writing desk

I cleaned it with a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice  the recipes in the book  and used tiny amounts of filler to fill in the chips. You can upcycle a piece of furniture over the weekend, but make sure to research a piece before painting, as it might be worth money, and painting it will devalue it.

Since the desk she bought for 150 turns out to be worth around 1,500, shes glad she took her own advice.

See @jenconnell.home, daintydressdiaries.com, dfs.ie, obrien.ie, thedesignedtable.com
We took our dog on a pet-friendly ferry from Ireland to France  heres how the holiday went

Is it barking mad to bring your dog on holiday overseas? Our writer took her children and dog Maggie on the ferry to Roscoff. Heres how they got on

Orla Neligan with her children and dog Maggie on board Brittany Ferries' flagship Pont-Aven ferry

Orla Neligan Fri 24 May 2024 at 03:30

Dad, I feel sick, I pleaded, as we chugged along in our campervan en route to Rosslare to board the ferry to France. It was a hot day in July 1982 and we had barely left our house in Dublin.
The power of doing the right thing at the right time has proven transformational at key moments in history. Unfortunately, it is only recognised as such with hindsight.

But doing nothing when thousands of people are being killed is not sustainable.

Thus, it is hoped that the recognition of Palestine as a state, by Ireland, Norway and Spain, can bring momentum to bestowing the rights and status its people have been deprived of for over 70 years.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed the move rewards terrorism.

Yet Taoiseach Simon Harris could not have been more clear in his condemnation of Hamas and the absolute need for it to release hostages.

Tel Avivs indiscriminate prosecution of war against the terrorists has failed to respect the lives of tens of thousands of civilians. This is in direct contravention of the Geneva Conventions.

The scale of the carnage has shocked the world and must now come to an end.

The intention of conferring statehood on Palestine is to give a concrete platform for the two-state solution  first mooted three decades ago  to be built upon.

Israels recalling of its envoys to Ireland and Norway for urgent consultations, and threats of further action, are therefore regrettable.

Violence is a spear pointed at both ends; those who wield it invariably suffer as much as its targets.

Israels retaliatory offensive has killed over 35,000 people in Gaza since Hamass diabolical attacks of last October 7.

It is time for politics, dialogue and diplomacy to dam the rivers of blood. Israel Katz, Israels foreign affairs minister, says: The twisted step of these countries is an injustice to the memory of the 7/10 victims.

But accepting Palestine and acknowledging the legitimacy of its international identity is a step towards, not away from, justice. Ireland also respects and recognises Israels right to exist. For too long, the voice and integrity of Palestine has been ignored.

There are many thorny issues still to be addressed, such as defining borders and the status of Jerusalem. However, accepting its right to exist establishes its credentials in conversations about its future  in which it must be centrally involved.

It should be remembered that 143 UN members have already recognised a Palestinian state. Washington has also been a strong supporter of a two-state solution.

However, the US believes it should be realised through direct negotiations between the parties, not unilateral recognition.

However, as Norwegian prime minister Jonas Gahr Store said: In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike. Two states, living side by side, in peace and security.

Doing the right thing isnt always rewarded. But the international community cannot sit in silence and surrender to the concept of forever war.
Keir Starmer is likely to seek a more co-operative relationship with Ireland if he wins the UK election. Photo: PA

Rarely in British politics has a dice been rolled more desperately than the one thrown down by Rishi Sunak. The UK prime minister is betting all on hope triumphing over experience as his Conservatives go into the race on 23pc, matching the nadir of Liz Trusss brief premiership in 2022, according to a Financial Times tracker poll.

Playwright Tom Stoppard once wrote: Life is a gamble, at terrible odds  if it was a bet, you wouldnt take it. Perhaps, having come to a similar fatalistic conclusion that there is little left to lose, Mr Sunak has decided to go for broke.

Judging by the number of Tory MPs hugging each other in the Commons in the belief they were unlikely to be seeing each other again under that roof, not too many were buying into Mr Sunaks chances.

After 14 years in office, few are holding out any real expectations that he can secure a fifth term for his party.

As the storm clouds  literally and metaphorically gathered over the head of the prime minister, his opponent, Labour leader Keir Starmer, was looking forward to far brighter prospects. Adopting an almost presidential demeanour, he addressed the British people, urging them to embrace change.

On this side of the Irish Sea, hopes of a less fraught and more co-operative relationship with our nearest neighbour will rise with an expected reset in Anglo-Irish relations. The eight years since Brexit have seen an erosion of trust and unravelling of firm ties.

The Rwanda policy, and the schadenfreude from the Tory benches that greeted the claim that 80pc of migrants coming here were entering across the Border, saw already frosty relations get even colder. Mr Starmer has pledged to work with other countries in tackling uncontrolled migration.

Taoiseach Simon Harris declared: This country will not in any way, shape or form provide a loophole for anybody elses migration challenges.

British home secretary James Cleverly even cancelled a meeting with Justice Minister Helen McEntee in London over the issue, and Ms McEntee responded in kind by cancelling her trip entirely.

The introduction of the UKs Legacy Bill, which is opposed by all parties in the North, has also been a source of contention. Mr Starmer has given a commitment that should his party form the next government, he would repeal the bill.

As SDLP leader Colum Eastwood put it: Keir Starmer understands the burden and the weight of cross-generational trauma that has been caused by the failure to adequately address the legacy of our past.

Irrespective of who occupies 10 Downing Street, co-operation is vital between Britain and Ireland, given our shared interests and common challenges in so many areas.

As Edmund Burke commented: England and Ireland may flourish together. The world is large enough for both of us. Let it be our care not to make ourselves too little for it.
Five years ago, then Fine Gael politician Maria Bailey, found herself at the centre of a national scandal and subsequent media storm.

The former TD took a case against a Dublin hotel for medical expenses after a fall on their premises. It became front page news and would forever be known as Swing-Gate.

But as coverage continued, Maria Bailey went on one of the most listened to radio programs in the country to put forward her side of the story.

As the phrase goes, any publicity is good publicity - but this might just be the exception to the rule.

Today on the Indo Daily, Tabitha Monaghan is joined by Kevin Doyle, Group Head of News at Media House Ireland, to take us through how the story broke, his involvement in it, and reflect on the scandal that saw the politician deselected by her party.
The Sinn Fein spokesperson on Social Protection called it a logical step, but he said the government failure to means-test medical cards needs to be addressed.

Deputy O Laoghaire said: Where someone is working and has an adequate income to sustain themselves, it makes sense that they do not need to have the full daily expense payment and that it should therefore be means-tested. I note that the Comptroller and Auditor General conducted an audit, which led to this policy change.

The Sinn Fein TD for Cork South Central continued: It also makes sense, where people are in direct provision and receiving meals and accommodation in that manner, that contributions should be made to costs on a differential basis. The government needs to address this. What does not make sense is that people who arrive under the temporary protection directive are not means-tested for their medical cards for a full year.

Tens of thousands of people apply every year for medical cards but are denied because they have failed a means test, said Deputy O Laoghaire. People who are here from Ukraine earning a wage should not have automatic access to a medical card, particularly when medical card holders can pay a lower rate of USC.

If they qualify under a means test, then of course they should be entitled to it. There should be equal treatment. But a means test should apply to people arriving under the temporary directive and to those seeking international protection in the same way it applies to everyone else. Tests for medical cards can and should take place within two to three months of a person's arrival here, he added.

The Cork TD said his party want to deliver a healthcare service on a universal basis. Sinn Fein wants to deliver a healthcare service that is on a universal basis but until that is achieved, the rules around means testing have to be fair and apply equally across the board. The government has dragged their feet, and it is time for them to act.
A u-turn by the HSE on a decision to temporarily move elderly residents from Cherry Orchard Hospital, has been hailed as a victory by families campaigning for months against the move.

In November last year, 68 residents and their families were informed that patients would have to be moved to allow structural work to be carried out.

To the groups knowledge, 33 residents have so far been moved, with families saying it has caused severe stress for patients who were used to staff and their surroundings.

Advocacy group Care Champions, which has been supporting families with their campaign, received news today that the HSE was reversing its decision.

After six months of needless upheaval and distress caused to our loved ones, the HSE has today finally reversed its decision to relocate residents from Cherry Orchard Hospital, a spokesperson for the group said.

This long-awaited victory belongs to the families who have relentlessly campaigned to keep their loved ones in a secure, familiar and homely environment.

They added that their hearts were with the 21 families who have lost loved ones during what they described as a bureaucratic nightmare.

The trauma inflicted on all and relocated residents is unconscionable, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with the bereaved families demanding a full, transparent investigation.

The original decision to move residents following a HIQA inspection in 2022 which discovered that the floors of the unit were weakening and there was concern that residents could be injured if a floor collapsed.

A separate fire risk assessment found residents were at great risk and a decision was taken by the HSE to move 68 residents in the Willow and Sycamore units to accommodation off the campus.

Maria Stynes, who has been at the forefront of the campaign advocating for her grandfather (96), one of the residents in Cherry Orchard, told the Irish Independent that she was delighted with news of the u-turn.

Were deeply saddened that 21 lives were lost during this process and there was enormous stress for all residents and families which could have been avoided, she added.

Were also thinking of the residents who have transferred and are unhappy. However, today, we feel this is a victorious day for older peoples rights in Ireland.

This shows that older peoples rights are equally as important as everyone elses, and that people do not give up their rights at the door of nursing homes or hospitals.

We continue to fight for our loved ones, and we will continue to ensure that our negotiations with the HSE regarding the on-site option are suitable for all residents, and that an agreement in a person-centred manner is facilitated.

We thank all the support weve had from our local community, from the local TDs, and from the media outlets that have supported our campaign.

Today we rejoice that our loved ones will stay with their designated care team and have achieved continuity of care for them, she added.
Charlie Holmes with his father Paddy and his mother Sarah at Trinity College Dublin

Charlie Holmes (12), from Crumlin, after picking up his award at Trinity

A Crumlin boy was shaking hands with everyone like a little politician after he won an award at Trinity College Dublin last night.

Charlie Holmes (12), a sixth class pupil at Loreto Senior Primary School in Crumlin, won the Salters Sterling Leadership Award at the ceremony.

The event celebrated primary school students who have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, leadership actions, and kindness and empathy towards their fellow students.

The Gold Medal Award is given to those who have often put others before themselves; they have shown a great sense of civic-mindedness and purposefulness in their classrooms, schools and communities.

These students stand out as the leaders of tomorrow, as they have chosen to take action in the present and to make their schools and communities better places.

Charlies teacher Aoife Clarke said she was super proud that her student took home the prize.

Its the biggest award of the year, we do people of the term, people of the year, but this is way bigger than that, she told the Irish Independent.

Im super proud. If I was allowed to jump up and down when he was getting the award, I would have. Its really, really well deserved.

Charlie Holmes (12), from Crumlin, after picking up his award at Trinity

Class can be quite difficult at times and from the very first day he has just completely stood out as being one of the best kids in the class and such a leader.

Hes empathetic, he leads everyone with kindness, hes very popular in the class. Everyone listens to him; hes involved in the student council as well.

He does Playground Pals a lot where he goes on to the younger yard and plays games with them. Charlie comes in with a smile every day. He doesnt let anything get him down and is respectful and kind to everyone.

If I could multiply him by 20 I would. Hes brilliant. He was like a little politician. Everyone that walked past him after they got the award, he took his hand out to shake their hands, hes great.

They did a quiz to break the evening up and he was jumping up and down like shaking his hand to try and get their attention so he could answer the question.

Ms Clarke believes its a great opportunity for students to visit the grounds of a university campus because it can open their eyes to the future.

Its really nice that they get to see what college is like because, for a lot of them, colleges arent on their radar.

It was just a nice opportunity for them to go to a college and see where students live in college, their lecture halls, their buildings. Trinity is such a world class college, its a huge, huge deal for them.

The ceremony was so nice. It was so aimed at the kids; they had movement breaks for them during it.

Ill miss Charlie when he goes off to secondary school. But I know hell be great. Hell take to it just like a fish to water, she added.

Charlie also spoke to the Irish Independent, and said he believes his family life, and life within his community, contributed to his success.

Charlie Holmes with his father Paddy and his mother Sarah at Trinity College Dublin

Being the oldest child in my family definitely helped. I have two younger siblings, Heidi who is three and Joey a one year old baby. I play for Lourdes Celtic too, so that helped me a lot with teamwork.

Fiona OReilly, Student Leadership Coordinator in the Trinity Access Programme, said the awards can help students envision themselves attending college in the future.

Over 380 primary school pupils and their families received awards for Kindness and Friendship, Bravery and Persistence, and Leadership.

Teachers from each school nominated students who have made their school a more welcoming environment for others.

A number of students, including Charlie Holmes from Loreto Senior Primary School Crumlin, were selected as recipients of the Salters Sterling Gold Medal Award.

Salters Sterling, a former staff member of TCD and a founding member of the Trinity Access Programmes, was a visionary who was committed to opening up Trinity College to a more diverse student body.

The Access Programme is linked with 21 secondary and 19 primary schools in the inner-city and greater Dublin area to widen college access and participation at third level.

By engaging with schools and communities that are traditionally underrepresented in third level education, these students can envision themselves attending college in the future.

It is a night to remember for students and families every year, and it gives students the opportunity to picture themselves sitting in a similar position in years to come, she added.
Many Dubliners feel alienated by rising rents and the lack of housing in the city, the author of the satirical play DublinLand has said.

Following an acclaimed sell-out run at the Dublin Fringe Festival in 2023, DublinLand is now coming back for an international tour.

Written by Cian Jordan and Matthew Tallon, DublinLand is about the government turning the city into a theme park where you can take a rollercoaster to work instead of the Luas.

Its always the dream when youre doing a Fringe run that youll get another run. We have these shows at Smock Alley and then were also doing shows in London on June 28 and 29, Mr Tallon told the Irish Independent.

Were delighted to have it in London because we know that it works in Dublin because people can really relate to a lot of the stuff going on.

Were doing it at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith, so Im really excited about getting to do it overseas.

I think the themes were talking about, Dublin becoming a less liveable place, a lot of the people who will be seeing the show are probably people who left Dublin for those exact reasons.

A lot of people living in Dublin feel alienated, rent is skyrocketing, houses are turning to hotels, he added.

Matthew and Cian, who know each other from doing comedy, came up with the idea whilst Matthew was living in New York.

We were talking about themes we could relate to, and that feeling you get when youre Irish interacting with Americans. You start to big up your Irishness a little bit and play into what they want you to be, Matthew said.

From that, we spoke about how Dublin as a city has really been doing that for the last 20 to 30 years, increasingly becoming a performance of itself for tourists, often at the expense of housing and desperately needed amenities.

We wanted to turn the entire city into a theme park. We were exploring heavy themes in a zany comedy show that people could laugh at while getting out some of the trauma theyve had living in Dublin the last few years.

We do make a few jokes about the American conception of Ireland in the show, but the real target of the satire is how the government is kind of trading off that at the expense of housing and healthcare.

Dublin writer Matthew Tallon created the satirical play with friend Cian Jordan

Matthew believes the situation in Dublin is extremely heavy, with thousands of people suffering.

I think its incredibly serious. The general quality of life for everybody who isnt very rich has been getting steadily worse over the past 10 to 20 years, he said.

Its a dire situation where even people who are making good money can barely afford to survive, let alone the people who are on low incomes. I dont think thats particularly funny.

There are very severe issues like the housing crisis or the rise of the far right. The government response is often just to keep the ship steady, keep going as normal.

There are funny elements in there, but were really laughing at the people who are screwing over the citizens of the country rather than the people who are suffering at the hands of it.

People have to live through these hard truths every day, and if they can laugh about it for an hour it can really help them to make it through that. Our intention is just to make sure that people have a good time, he added.

DublinLand is showing at the Smock Alley theatre in Dublin on May 24 and 25
Its important for ordinary people going about their everyday work to do it well. A 21-year-old native of Knockanure, County Kerry, was only seeing to her standard duties in Blacksod Post Office, County Mayo, when she sent on the results of a 1am weather observation on June 3, 1944  but her forecast changed historys course in the profoundest way.

Maureen Sweeney nee Flavins brief as a post-office clerk included taking regular weather readings until Belmullet station opened in 1956. It was only then that she learned that her forecast in the early hours of June 3, 1944, delayed the D-Day landings, historys largest seaborne invasion, to June 4. Its impossible to quantify the number of lives she saved.

The Knockanure woman  who moved to Mayo after seeing an ad for a job in Blacksod Post Office  died aged 100 last November, by which time she knew acclaimed childrens author Sarah Webb would pen on a book inspired by her ordinary extraordinariness.

Sadly she passed before I had a chance to meet her. But I have been able to meet her sons, Gerry and Vincent, Sarah told The Kerryman. Fergus Sweeney is her grandson, and he helped me with fact-checking. Theres a history segment at the back of the book. They are a really decent, kind family, and theyre delighted to keep Maureens story alive and make sure that shes remembered as she should be, as a remarkable Irish woman.

The heroine of the OBrien Press-published The Weather Girls is 12-year-old Grace Devine, and we see a wartime Blacksod through her eyes. It may be a fictional narrative to appeal to younger readers, but be in no doubt that Maureen was its inspiration, and her very real story is mentioned prominently between the books covers.

The first time I heard [Maureens] story was while watching Great Irish Lighthouses of Ireland, an RTE documentary, and Maureens husband, Ted  sadly since passed  was on it, and he talked about his wifes role and how it was her who did the weather reports, Sarah said.

Ive always been very interested in hidden stories, particularly hidden Irish women.

First and foremost, it shows that ordinary people doing their job well can make a huge difference, and can even influence history. Maureen was just doing her job meticulously every hour, day and nightI love bringing history to life.

As part of the build-up to the books release, Sarah visited Blacksod Lighthouse  where Maureens son, Vincent, works today  and she discovered that her great-grandfather, a lighthouse inspector, visited in the 1940s and 1950s. The proof was right there, his name in an old visitors book they looked through, so maybe fate put the story in Sarahs hands.

Kerry readers may be just as interested to hear that Maureen never lost touch with her roots  preferring to shout for the Kingdom during their many on-field clashes with Mayo, Sarah explained.

The Weather Girls is available in all good bookstores.
Two The Kerryman journalists have been nominated for a prize at the 2024 Law Society of Ireland Justice Media Awards.

Sinead Kelleher and Tadhg Evans both remain in contention to win in the Print/Online Journalism (Local) category.

Ms Kellehers exclusive insight into how students of a Kerry school laundered 1.3million in illegal money-mule transactions earned her a nomination. Mr Evans was nominated after meeting solicitor Conor Murphy to analyse an inquest into the death of Tatenda Mukwata at University Hospital Kerry in 2022.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Thursday, June 20, in Dublin.
Although clear road accident data may not solve all road safety issues, Lorna believes it is a crucial step towards informed decision-making. Every day, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians risk their lives due to inadequate infrastructure and incomplete information about road hazards. The Government must step up and fulfil its duty to protect our citizens. Despite the Taoiseachs commitment to prioritising road safety, action has been lacking. Its time to ensure accurate collision data is available to all and to allocate funding for repairing our crumbling roads nationwide, said Lorna.

Lorna also stated that an improvement in road infrastructure would have an impact on tackling the enormous increase in road fatalities which have happened across Ireland over the last two years.

"Motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians deserve to know where incidents occur on our roads. This knowledge empowers individuals to make safer choices and encourages responsible road usage. Coupled with accessible data, we must prioritise funding for local councils to repair our crumbling roads nationwide. Potholes pose significant dangers to all road users. By investing in better infrastructure, we aim to reduce fatalities and make our roads safer for everyone in Gorey and the surrounding areas, she said.

Lorna recently contacted Wexford County Council to fix potholes in Coolgreany, discuss the new footpath between Gorey and Courtown. She also met with Council officials to discuss the Esmonde Street redevelopment. From speaking to local residents in Gorey, shes heard of the particular areas that require immediate investment such as pedestrian crossings at the Ballycanew Road, Fort Road and Arklow Road.

Similarly, traffic calming measures are badly needed on the Courtown Road and in Ardamine where residents have been campaigning for years to have speed ramps installed.

Theres hardly a family or community untouched by the tragedy of road fatalities. We owe it to them and to future generations to do everything in our power to protect lives on our roads.

"The Government must act now to introduce clear road accident data and provide the necessary resources to repair our roads. Together, we can make Gorey and the surrounding areas safer place for all, said Lorna.
The children of Ballyhack National School were met with a wonderful surprise on their arrival to school one recent sunny morning.

With great preparations for the big surprise under way, the Coast Guard was positioned in the neighbouring field. They sent up red flares and in no time the sounds of the Rescue 117 could be heard approaching across the peninsula.

Once the Rescue 117 arrived in Ballyhack, the pilot Tom Kelly, provided immense excitement by circling the school grounds from above and eventually landing in Jimmy Kennedys field across the road from the school. Once landed the school and wider community made their way up to the field and had a wonderful presentation from the crew of Rescue 117.

This was such a wonderful experience for all the children in our school and the wider community to see the Rescue 117 up close in person, said Ballyhack NS principal Eva Murphy.

As a coastal community we are so thankful for the work of the Coast Guard and the crew of Rescue 117 and the important role they play in our community. We would like to show our appreciation and give thanks to Keith and Breda Chaplin for organising this amazing experience, to Jimmy Kennedy for the use of his field and of course the Coast Guard and Crew of Rescue 117 for all their preparations and time.
Bray firm Data Edge, the network optimisation specialist and application performance management company, has appointed Naomi Byrne as its new Administrative and Compliance Manager.

Before joining Data Edge, Naomi worked for Whitewater, another local Bray business which specialises in sustainable water treatment solutions, where she gained invaluable insight and experience in internal audit processes and compliance which she will bring to her role with Data Edge.

Prior to her two years with Whitewater, she worked with Gaelite Signs for five years, including four as Quality Management Co-Ordinator.

There, she developed vital expertise in the granting and maintenance of ISO certifications, a skill which she will continue to put to good use as Data Edge seeks to continually bolsters its accreditation.

In her new role, Naomi will be responsible for office operations, human resources, health and safety compliance and ISO standards administration. She will manage administration for the Data Edge team, scheduling technical sessions with clients and suppliers while also addressing queries, resolving issues and maintaining positive relationships with all stakeholders.

Naomi will also co-ordinate event management for the company, arranging its partner-supplier tech days, workshops, and Data Edges attendance at various industry trade shows.

Data Edge encourages constant upskilling amongst its employees and Naomi will be in charge of identifying appropriate courses and workshops to help collectively build the staffs skill set. She will also oversee various other HR functions such as recruitment, training, and performance management.

The company currently holds ISO 9001:Quality Management Systems, and Naomi is also looking to implement and gain certification in ISO:27001 Information Security. Personally, Naomi recently completed her training and holds certification for ISO:27001 Lead Auditor and ISO:27001 Advanced Risk and Implementation.

Commenting on her new role, Naomi said: At Data Edge there is no ceiling to where you can go, and I am really looking forward to helping the team and the company maximise its potential and be as successful as possible.

As a company, Data Edge is focused on continuous improvement and fostering excellent relationships with all of its stakeholders as it continues to support Irelands digital growth, and I am very excited to be a part of that.
Local Enterprise Office Wicklow will run a one-day training course on preparing your business for customs, with a focus on export.

This compact one day programme is suitable for companies who are beginning their export and import journey. Companies who would also like to refresh their knowledge are welcome as the day will cover the essentials of export and import customs compliance.

Participants will learn how tariffs work and the need to correctly classify goods. The programme will also help participating companies to brainstorm the urgent tasks and applications needed to mitigate costly delays and penalties. Workshops will be tailored to meet the specific sectors of participating companies and the challenges they face.

Specific areas covered will include free trade agreements, the Union Customs Code; rules of origin, valuation and classification; tariffs, duty and VAT; deferred payments and returned goods relief and UK post-Brexit rules changes on goods of animal origin.

The course takes place at the Local Enterprise Office, Wicklow, from 10am to 4pm on Tuesday, June 8. It costs 30 and you can register via www.localenterprise.ie/Wicklow.
Students from Colaiste Chill Mhantain take to the stage to recite poems they wrote about their own experiences.

Wicklow students from Colaiste Chill Mhantain took to the stage at the KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Awards ceremony, held in partnership with the International Literature Festival Dublin this week.

The Wicklow students recited their own poems to schoolchildren from across Ireland as well as much-loved childrens authors and illustrators in attendance. Their poems were the result of a spoken-word poetry initiative which encouraged students to write about their own ideas and experiences. Through a series of workshops, students were introduced to spoken word poetry and the power of language.

Students from fourteen schools in Wicklow also participated in a national Junior Juries programme for this years KPMG Childrens Books Ireland Awards, including Glenart College, Arklow, Greystones Community College, Kilmacanogue National School, Bray, St. Marys and St. Gerards National School, Enniskerry and Wicklow Educate Together School National School, Wicklow town.

Through the programme young people in schools, libraries and book clubs shadowed adult judges in reading, discussing and assessing the shortlisted books. The judging panel read a record 158 titles from Irish-born or Ireland-based writers and illustrators, the biggest year so far in the history of the awards.

Speaking at the ceremony, Elaina Ryan, CEO of Childrens Books Ireland, said: This years award winners showcase the outstanding quality and variety of contemporary Irish childrens literature. The fact that so many of the winners and shortlistees are debuts is remarkable  the Awards are an opportunity for us to celebrate both emerging and established creators and to connect them with their audiences.

Through our Junior Juries programme, we have seen the joy and excitement these shortlisted books have sparked in over 12,700 young readers across Ireland. Today, in front of an audience of 600 excited readers, were proud to recognise the talent and hard work of these extraordinary writers and illustrators whose work will no doubt be such a formative part of so many young readers childhoods.
Nigel Farage has revealed he was set to launch a campaign to run as an MP next week (PA)

Nigel Farage has said he was preparing to launch a campaign next week to stand as an MP before the Prime Minister announced the General Election date.

On Thursday morning, the GB News host announced in a statement that he would not stand as a Reform UK candidate in the upcoming election but that he will do my bit to help the party in the UK campaign.

Appearing on GB News as a guest during his typical show slot on Thursday, he said: I have always said that there will be a moment when I throw my hat in the ring fully into British politics. Ive also said aged 60, Ive got one more card to play and its about when I play it.

I had, to be honest with you, put in place some preparations to launch next week.

I wonder whether the Conservative Party found out about it. I think the sense of panic that we saw yesterday, the badly prepared speech, might perhaps have prompted it a little bit.

Asked to clarify that he was referring to launching a campaign to stand as an MP, he confirmed saying: Yes, absolutely.

But Mr Farage admitted the Prime Minister had wrong-footed him by calling an election for July 4.

He said: What I could not do in the space of six weeks was to find a constituency from scratch and go around the country.

He added he had not decided which constituency he would run in as of yet as there were a variety of options which he felt he could have gone for.

Despite not running as a candidate, Mr Farage said he would campaign for Reform UK and stressed his support for party leader Richard Tice.

He told GB News: Am I going to be campaigning? Yes. Am I backing Richard Tice? One hunderd per cent I am utterly committed to Reform.

I believe their agenda is the only one that can actually stop the sense of national decline that were in.

There had been speculation that Reform UKs honorary president could return to frontline politics for the national vote for which Rishi Sunak on Wednesday set the summer date.

But earlier on Thursday, Mr Farage said he would focus on getting Donald Trump re-elected rather than stand as a Reform UK candidate in the general election.

The arch Brexiteer also said he would do my bit to help the party in the UK campaign, but that it was not the right time to go any further than that.

Ahead of the launch of Reform UKs campaign on Thursday, Mr Farage said in a statement posted on X: I have thought long and hard as to whether I should stand in the upcoming general election.

As honorary president of Reform UK, I am fully supportive of Richard Tices leadership and urge voters to put their trust in him and Lee Anderson.

I will do my bit to help in the campaign, but it is not the right time for me to go any further than that.

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Important though the general election is, the contest in the United States of America on November 5 has huge global significance. A strong America as a close ally is vital for our peace and security. I intend to help with the grassroots campaign in the USA in any way that I can.

The choice between Labour and the Conservatives is uninspiring, and only Reform have the radical agenda that is needed to end decline in this country.

Mr Farage has a longstanding relationship with the former US president, having been the first UK politician to meet Mr Trump after his 2016 White House election victory.

Mr Farage is cancelling his GB News show to free up time for campaigning.

Reform UK leader Mr Tice, a multimillionaire former Tory donor, said on X: Delighted to have Nigels help during the election campaign.

If you want change, you must vote for @reformparty_uk on July 4th.

Reform UK is led by former Tory donor Richard Tice (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Mr Tice inherited the leadership of Reform UK, originally called the Brexit Party, from Mr Farage when he decided to step back from frontline politics in 2021 in the aftermath of Britains withdrawal from the EU.

The party is seeking to attract disillusioned Conservative voters, mainly over the issues of immigration and net zero.

Many Tories fear it could put a real dent in Mr Sunaks hopes of a return to Downing Street come polling day.

They are likely to be relieved ex-Ukip leader Mr Farage has decided against taking on a more prominent role, as this could have massively boosted Reforms prospects.

Tory former Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg previously said: The fact that hes not a candidate for an opposition party is inevitably helpful for the Conservatives.

Mr Farage has unsuccessfully stood for Parliament several times, most recently in 2015.

In the 2019 election, he withdrew Brexit Party candidates in Conservative-held seats, a move that is thought to have contributed to Boris Johnsons victory.

Mr Anderson, the former Tory deputy chairman, is the only current Reform UK MP following his defection from the Conservatives.

At Reforms election launch event, former MEP Ben Habib appeared to take a coded dig at Mr Farages decision not to stand.

Mr Habib, who is standing in Wellingborough, said: For any political movement to succeed, it needs a leader who is prepared to absolutely stay the distance and make the fight.

He said Mr Tice has the moral courage not to vacate either when the going gets tough, or when it might suit him.

Asked if he was referencing Mr Farage, Mr Habib said: You interpret (my comment) as you see fit. In any walk of life, you have to stay the distance.
Our fashion editor rounds up the latest style news and fashion trends

I have James Joyce to thank for helping me discover the Madison & Co boutique in Glasthule village in Co Dublin. There I was on Bloomsday, the annual June 16 expedition to follow Joycean enthusiasts reading at the Sandycove tower, which features in the opening scenes of his literary epic Ulysses. While the food outside Cavistons restaurant was delish, my neck was craned to get a better look at the window of the boutique behind me.

Linen scarf, 69, Sort Aarhus, organic cotton hoody, 329, faux leather joggers, 99, Lofina trainers, 389, Madison & Co. Photo: Amanda Hatton.

When Kelly Callaghan opened her boutique, there was a gasp of delight from customers because of the amount of colour and print she embraced, and nothing has changed in the family-owned store. Kellys daughter Emma, along with the boutiques staff, Sharon and Amanda, all have their fingers on the pulse when it comes to buying trips and choosing a diverse range of clothing.

They stock the minimal and easy-to-wear Meimeij line and Me369, which pulses with energy and creativity. They also have Tomorrow Denim, which is certified by both the Nordic Swan Ecolabel and the EU Ecolabel, the highest possible honour within sustainability.

The Malina label comes from Stockholm, while Sort Aarhus is a new label from Denmark, which is where the comfy Lofina shoes come from.

All that glitters

I never fail to be surprised by Caroline Kilkenny, whose eponymous and Sisters ranges are available in stores around the country and on her own website.

Logan sequin dress, 340, carolinekilkenny.com

She is always very original with her take on occasion and smart-casual designs. A real favourite this summer is the fluid Logan dress with flip sleeve and gathered front.

She aims to achieve accessible luxury and I think she has done it in spades with this dress. carolinekilkenny.com

Copenhagen bound

When I saw Sinead ODwyers two recent shows at London Fashion Week, I knew that this Irish designer was on the brink of something big. I didnt have to wait long.

Sinead, from Tullamore, Co Offaly, has been named as winner of the Zalando Visionary Award 2024 and, as a recipient of the award, she is going to make her Copenhagen Fashion Week runway debut in August.

Sinead ODwyer, winner of the Zalando Visionary Award. Photo: Rankin. Collection photo (right): Zoe Natale Mannella

This awards scheme aims to recognise the makers of the future and enable designers to showcase not only their sustainability efforts but also their dedication to creativity, innovation and positive social impact, supporting them to make meaningful change within the fashion industry and beyond.

Last September, Sinead brought us back to her old alma mater, the Royal College of Art in Kensington. Sitting in front of the glazed-iron roof of the Royal Albert Hall, we watched as the Irish woman explained her collection, titled Assembly.

Recollections of her uniform from Killina secondary school informed her box-pleated culottes, rara shorts, shirting, and her first denim jean features Swarovski crystal applique.

Sinead has a big fan base for her figure-cladding webbed dresses, which come in schoolhouse stripes, using an intricate technique that fuses picot-trimmed, shirred satin bands with robust elastication.

Beach vibes

I always love to see creatives team up together, and all the better if they are neighbours! Louise Stokes of Loulerie on Chatham Street and Rae Feather from the Westbury Mall are launching their exciting new collaboration next week.

Louise tells me, Weve been hard at work designing a stunning capsule jewellery collection inspired by relaxed summer travels and beach vibes.

Check it out in both stores and online. loulerie.com; raefeather.com

Student win

Look out for the name Dennis Lawless as one to watch in years to come. The 23-year-old from Edenderry, Co Offaly, has just been named as winner of this years coveted River Island NCAD Fashion Design Bursary.

Model Yomiko Chen with NCAD final-year fashion design student Dennis Lawless, winner of the 2024 River Island NCAD Fashion Design Bursary. Photo: Leon Farrell

Now in its 20th year, the bursary has proved to be an important stepping stone for NCAD graduates to get onto the first rung of the ladder in the fashion industry.

He receives a bursary of 3,500 and will be offered a three-month paid internship at River Islands design studio in west London.

The students were invited to consider their favourite River Island moment in time and use this to create the ultimate celebration collection.

Denniss talents shone with some really clever modular, gender-fluid pieces that are bold and experimental. He designed two tailored jackets that can be worn multiple ways and styled one as a skirt under a jacket for the awards lunch. riverisland.com
Tensions rise in Taiwan as jets scrambled amid China air drills

Beijings military exercises in the region follow election of new president on island

President Lai Ching-te studies a rocket launcher at a military camp in Taoyuan, Taiwan, yesterday. Photo: Reuters

Christopher Bodeen Fri 24 May 2024 at 03:30







Taiwan scrambled jets and put missile, naval and land units on alert yesterday over Chinese military exercises being conducted around the self-governing island democracy where a new president took office this week.
Child serial killer Lucy Letby has lost her Court of Appeal bid to challenge her convictions.

At a two-and-a-half day hearing last month, Letby's lawyers asked senior judges for approval to bring an appeal against her convictions for the murders of seven babies and the attempted murders of six others.
Food bound for starving Gazans rots in the sun as Egypt's Rafah crossing stays shut

Trucks halted since Israel stepped up offensive in RafahSome supplies stuck for more than two monthsHealth warning issued for some food inside Gaza

US and Israeli activists protest in support of Palestinians in Gaza outside the US Consulate in Jerusalem, May 24, 2024. Photo: REUTERS/Ammar Awad.

Nidal al-Mughrabi and Emma Farge Fri 24 May 2024 at 14:11







Some of the food supplies waiting to enter the Gaza Strip from Egypt have begun to rot as the Rafah border crossing remains shut to aid deliveries for a third week and people inside the Palestinian enclave face worsening hunger.
Israeli delegation members sit at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), at the start of a hearing where South Africa requests new emergency measures over Israel's attacks on Rafah, as part of an ongoing case South Africa filed at the ICJ in December last year accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention during its offensive against Palestinians in Gaza, in The Hague Netherlands May 17, 2024. REUTERS/Yves Herman
Palestinians among the rubble of the southern Gaza Strip yesterday, which has been decimated by Israeli airstrikes. Photo: AP

Israel has severed diplomatic relations between the Spanish Consulate in Jerusalem and Palestinians from the occupied West Bank.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said in a statement: Following the recognition by Spain of a Palestinian State and the anti-Semitic call of the Vice President of the Spanish Government not to be satisfied with recognizing a Palestinian State and liberating Palestine from the river to the sea.
Increase in Employment as Subscribers Under EPFO Grow to 14.5mn in FY2023-24

Official employment figures for FY 2023-24 show increase in jobs in India as subscribers under the Employees Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) rose to 14.5 million from 13.8 million in the previous fiscal, marking a five percent increase.

EPFO subscribers grow 5 percent in FY 2024

The rise in employment numbers suggests a significant influx of youth entered the organized workforce, that is, primarily first-time job seekers. According to Indias Ministry of Labour and Employment, 56.83 percent of new EPFO members in March 2024 were in the 18-25 age bracket. Additionally, more companies are complying with EPF norms, contributing to this increase.

The latest preliminary payroll data shows that 14.5 million net members were added to EPFO in March 2024, compared to 13.8 million in the same period of FY2023. Post-pandemic growth rates were particularly strong, with increases of 58 percent in FY 2021-22, 13 percent in FY 2022-23, and 5 percent in FY24.

Job creation scenario

January witnessed the largest job increase in FY 2023-24, with 1.60 million new jobs created. Furthermore, 48,262 new establishments complied with the Employees Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, ensuring social security coverage for their employees. The number of official jobs created under EPFO climbed by 11.4 percent, from 13.85 million in 2022-2023 to 15.4 million in 2023-2024.

A gender-wise analysis of the payroll data reveals that out of 740,000 new members, around 200,000 were female members. The net female member addition for that month stood at around 290,000. This indicates a broader shift towards a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Although the overall number of new additions to the payroll was lower in FY24 (10.7 million) compared to FY23 (11.4 million), fewer people exited the workforce in FY24.

State-wise payroll performance

In Indias northern region, states like Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand registered growth rates of 20.3 percent and 19.99 percent, respectively, the highest in the region for formal job creation in FY24. This growth is likely due to increasing formalization of these state economies.

Other states, including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, also saw significant increases in formal jobs, with growth rates above 15 percent. Punjab added 173,000 new formal jobs, Himachal Pradesh 103,000, and Rajasthan 532,000. The highly industrialized states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Gujarat also saw substantial formal job creation.

Payroll data highlights: Focus on savings, preferred industries

The Ministry of Labour and Employment noted that many members switched jobs and rejoined establishments under EPFO, opting to transfer their accumulations instead of applying for final settlement. This trend safeguards long-term financial well-being and extends social security protection. Approximately 1.18 million members exited and subsequently rejoined EPFO.

Industry-wise, there was an increase in members working in manufacturing, marketing services, computer-related sectors, restaurants, accounting, fish processing, and non-veg food preservation. Around 43 percent of net EPFO membership additions came from expert services, including manpower suppliers, contractors, security services, and miscellaneous activities.

EPFO has been releasing monthly payroll data since April 2018, covering the period from September 2017 onwards. The data includes members joining EPFO for the first time through Aadhaar-validated Universal Account Numbers (UAN), existing members exiting EPFO coverage, and those rejoining as members, to arrive at the net monthly payroll.

Summary

Indias latest EPFO payroll data indicates steady yet modest growth in formal job creation for FY24. Although the post-pandemic years saw sharper increases in EPFO enrolments, this past fiscal year showed more tempered growth.

Notably, the majority of new members were from the younger age group, reflecting a dynamic workforce. The FY 2023-24 data also highlights positive trends in gender inclusivity and workforce diversity across various industries.

Despite a slight dip in new payroll additions compared to the previous year, the overall employment scenario in India remains resilient, with fewer workforce exits and a focus on long-term financial well-being and social security protection for employees.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

The European Commission has fined US-based food company Mondelez International , the maker of Oreo biscuits and Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate, for hindering the cross-border trade of chocolate, biscuits and coffee products between Member States, in breach of EU competition rules.

According to the European Commission website, the company has been fined 337.5 million ($366 million).

The company is accused of obstructing sales of its products between EU member states, the bloc's executive arm said on Thursday as quoted by Euro News.

What do we know about Modelez?

Mondelez, headquartered in the US, is one of the world's largest producers of chocolate and biscuit products. Its portfolio includes well-known chocolate and biscuit brands such as Cote d'Or, Milka, Oreo, Ritz, Toblerone and TUC and until 2015 coffee brands such as HAG, Jacobs and Velours Noir.

What did the investigation find?

The Commission's investigation found that Mondelez breached EU competition rules by engaging in anticompetitive agreements or concerted practices aimed at restricting cross-border trade of various chocolate, biscuit and coffee products and by abusing its dominant position in certain national markets for the sale of chocolate tablets.

"Prices for food differ between Member States. Trade over borders of Member States in the internal market can lower prices and increase the availability of products for consumers. This is especially important in times of high inflation. In todays decision, we find that Mondelez illegally limited cross-border sales across the EU. Mondelez did so to maintain higher prices for its products to the detriment of consumers. We have therefore fined Mondelez 337.5 million," said Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy.
Mumbai: Jaguar Land Rover has said it will start assembling the iconic Range Rover models at the Pune plant in India, marking the first time this process will occur outside of the UK.

Previously, these models were exclusively produced at JLR's UK facility, owned by Tata Motors, and then exported globally.

In a press release the company said, Range Rover House has arrived in India with an exclusive, modern luxury experience designed to reflect the tastes and desires of the discerning and affluent clientele of the region.

Range Rover House India is making its debut in the luxurious coastal town of Alibaug, displaying some of the first Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles which will now be produced in India, exclusively for the Indian market.

With sustained client demand in India on the rise for Range Rovers luxuriously appointed large SUVs, both the elegant Range Rover and the dynamic, modern performance SUV, the Range Rover Sport, will be locally manufactured in Pune, India, for the first time, the company said.

The move will enable the clientele in India to benefit from shorter wait times for Range Rovers pinnacle vehicles, expanding JLRs ability to offer a modern luxury client journey.

India will be the first country to locally manufacture Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, which will join Range Rover Velar, Range Rover Evoque, Jaguar F-PACE and Discovery Sport which are already locally manufactured at JLRs facility in Pune.

The additional production for the Indian market will supplement the global production of Range Rover which remains in Solihull, UK, and has been the manufacturing home of Range Rover since 1970. Solihull will also remain the home for Range Rovers upcoming fully-electric model, as well as the pinnacle SV vehicles.

Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer, JLR, said; Over the last few years, India has witnessed steady and spectacular economic growth and is poised to grow consistently in the near future as well. This growth has resulted in tremendous opportunities to localise product offerings for the discerning Indian clientele.

Local manufacturing of the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport in India is the next significant step towards the brand consolidating its position as the most desirable modern luxury SUV family in the country.

While Range Rover will now be Made in India for clients in this market, its exemplary British design remains distinctive and will continue to define the aesthetic grace and technological sophistication that is synonymous to the Range Rover brand.

Geraldine Ingham, Managing Director of Range Rover, said; Across the globe, were seeing the highest levels of client demand for Range Rover, in our 53-year history.

This is an unprecedented success story and India is a very important part of it. Retail sales in India, for FY24 alone, have surged by 160%, and locally manufacturing the Range Rover will enable the brand to respond to this growing demand among discerning clients and celebrated personalities across the country.

Rajan Amba, Managing Director, JLR India, said; This is a proud moment for all of us in India, as we become the first country to locally manufacture the iconic Range Rover. It is testament to the quality standards we have successfully achieved in local manufacturing in India, that are at par with JLR standards globally.

Manufacturing the Range Rover family locally will bring together the best of both worlds, as outstanding British design, technology and refinement meets the pride of owning a Made in India luxury vehicle.

With local production, the prices of Range Rovers are anticipated to drop significantly, between 18-22 percent, resulting in a new price range of Rs 1.40 crore to Rs 2.60 crore, depending on the model, reported Moneycontrol.

Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran said the manufacturing of Range Rover in India underscores the confidence JLR has in India. "the Range Rover will be manufactured right here in India is just a super feelingits a very very special moment and I feel proud," he said, according to Moneycontrol.

He added that Tata Motors anticipates an increase in sales in India in the future.

"We will sell more, I am very confident that it's going to be a great journey from here," he said.

JLR India local manufacturing

In 2011, JLR entered into a contract manufacturing agreement with Tata Motors to establish a manufacturing line for JLR vehicles at the Tata Motors plant in Pune, becoming the first manufacturing facility for JLR outside of the UK. With Freelander being the first car to be built locally in India, the plant in Chakan, Pune has produced 10 JLR cars for India. The manufacturing facility in India has consistently delivered high quality vehicles, always at par with JLRs quality standards globally.

Range Rover product portfolio in India

The Range Rover family in India includes the New Range Rover (starting at Rs 236 Lakh), Range Rover Sport (starting at Rs 140 Lakh), New Range Rover Velar (starting at Rs 87.90 Lakh), and Range Rover Evoque (starting at Rs 67.90 Lakh), all prices mentioned are ex-showroom in India.

Jaguar Land Rover retailer network in India

Jaguar Land Rover vehicles are available in India in 21 cities, through 25 authorised outlets in Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, Bengaluru (3), Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai (2), Coimbatore, Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Kochi, Karnal, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Mumbai (2), Noida, Pune, Raipur, Surat and Vijayawada.
Women farmers from Saharapada FPC get trained in Climate Smart Agriculture techniques on their smartphones.

When Nirmala Mahanto first started farming on her in-laws' land in Keonjhar, India, she was taken aback by the back-breaking challenge of crop production. In this drought prone district of eastern India, water scarcity forces women like Nirmala to walk miles, lugging water to irrigate their lands. Agricultural cultivation in Keonjhar is mainly rainfed and as the water tables run low, any changes in rainfall have a bearing on food production.

In most drought prone regions such as these, men migrate to cities for better opportunities and women are left in charge of the farms to substantiate the family income and survive. But growing crops through traditional methods has not been easy, especially in those areas that have been impacted by climate change.

When I first started tending to the fields, only 60% of the seeds I sowed turned into saplings, which meant huge losses in my fields produce, said Mahanto. My family income was depleted, and I could hardly break even with what was left.

Another complicating factor was the produce could not garner decent rates in the markets as middlemen kept the prices low.

Aisha Bibi, from the climate change affected Sahiwal region of Pakistan, has also struggled with the significant shifts in weather patterns that have affected her crops. Her family works as farm laborers and cultivates wheat, rice, sugarcane, and potatoes for wages.

Our crop production has been impacted by unpredictable rains, hailstorms, heatwaves that has meant a cut in wages as well, she said.

Aisha Bibi in her potato farm in Sahiwal, Pakistan.

With no stable income, Aisha Bibi struggles to sustain her family of eight.

Climate change has increased the burden on women farmers in both India and Pakistan and has made the issue of food production much more difficult. In the coming years this could have an exponential impact on the level of food production in these regions. As both the countries grapple to find solutions, agricultural technology is emerging as a viable means to meet these challenges.

Women farmers constitute nearly 40% of the farming community in South Asia and are in charge of the majority of food production in most developing countries. In India, women cultivate about 60-80% of the total agricultural produce (Oxfam India). In other South Asian countries, such as Pakistan, according to ILO figures, there are 7.2 million women employed in agriculturemaking them significant contributors to the countrys GDP.

Despite their substantial contributions, the efforts of women farmers in both India and Pakistan are largely unrecognized. Gender disparities in the agricultural sector in India challenge womens access to resources and credit linkages. Women farmers face constraints along the value chain and lack training in the use of modern technology.

Minimal land ownership, inaccessibility to entitlements, and insecurity in tenure, accentuate their difficulties and deprive them of any decision-making power over the land they work on.

In Pakistan, women farmers have to also battle societal and religious constraints which further complicate their ability to fully participate in the agricultural sector. According to Dr. Aamer Irshad, head of Programs, FAO Pakistan, there is a critical gender pay gap in this sector. Women farmers face limitations in accessing agricultural education due to migration, low levels of literacy and societal biases.

These gender inequalities in the agricultural industry have made women-headed agricultural plots far less productive than those headed by men. An FAO report claims that farms of women are 20-30% less productive as compared to men. In view of the changes in weather conditions, the production level is speculated to drop even further in the coming decades.

FAO estimates that by 2050 the world will need to ramp up its food production by 70% to meet the needs of a population of 9.1 billion. While global food production systems need to expand their capacity to maintain food security, extreme weather conditions, pest-pathogen attacks and unpredictable rainfall patterns due to climate change have been impacting farm productivity and agricultural incomes across the world.

Both India and Pakistan have committed to transforming their food production systems to achieve the UN's 2nd Sustainable Development Goal (SDG2) of Zero Hunger by 2030. Agri-tech solutions and improved technology are being initiated in the agricultural sector in both the countries to improve production yields and combat the ill effects of climate change. But societal gender biases leave women out of the fold.

According to Sugandha Munshi, senior associate scientist and lead specialist at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), women are keen on adopting technology and mechanisation in agriculture which saves them time and drudgery.

Nirmala Mahanto works in her fields in Keonjhar, Odisha using her learnings from digital videos.

However, a gender-aware and gender-responsive lens is necessary in agricultural technology, she says.

Designing any blanket technology for improving productivity, saving labour and saving costs is not the solution as these do not always cater to womens needs and roles in agriculture. One needs to keep their subjective realities in mind and, more importantly, consult them as equal participants in the designing processes, Munshi adds.

For more sustainable measures, apart from gender-inclusive designs, women farmers also need platforms to get trained, receive credit, and have the opportunity to learn new technology.

Several studies show that increasing tech adoption with women farmers can increase economic benefits in rural households and food production. In the wake of climate change, when farms are being left in charge of women, technology can be used to enhance womens participation in agriculture, reduce their burden significantly, and increase food production to tackle food insecurity.

Both India and Pakistan are therefore focussing on training women farmers in climate smart agriculture and technologyan imperative for building climate resilience and meeting their future food production needs.

In Keonjhar, Saharapada FPC, a women-run Farmer Producer Center (FPC), has been transforming the way in which women farmers work. FPCs have been set up under the Indian Companies Act and are a channel through which women may gain access to resources that have historically been unavailable to them. These producer organizations collectively give small and medium sized farmers the advantage of market opportunitiessupplying seeds, fertilizers, and machinery, and providing market linkages and technical advisories to them.

The Saharapada FPC provides saplings through its greenhouse, organic fertilizers, and agricultural machinery at reasonable rates. The center has also been harnessing digital technology to build awareness on climate smart agriculture and ensuring that women have access to information on weather advisories, and any entitlements pertaining to them. Using videos, flash messages and WhatsApp groups to disseminate this information, the FPC has trained hundreds of women on climate smart agriculture and organic farming.

Made with the technical support of tech organisation Digital Green, the videos have been customised to fit the context of Keonjhar. The content itself is generated through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Centres for Agricultural Scientists) and from the government advisories of the departments of agriculture and horticulture.

Earlier we used to be dependent on our families for all farming decisions, said Nirmala Mahanto, who has benefitted from the program. Armed with smartphones we can now provide solutions and informationthey now listen to us instead.

India is also mobilizing its Women Self Help Groups (SHGs), which have been instrumental in enhancing women empowerment through financial inclusion, to train women farmers in innovative technology.

An array of women centric agri-technology schemes such as NAMO Drone Didi have been recently introduced through SHGs for crop assessments and spraying of insecticides and fertilizers. The scheme aims to provide 15,000 drones to select women SHGs over the next three years (2023-2026). Training will be given to women farmers through SHG platforms on how to use drones in agricultural work to improve efficiency, increase production and reduce costs of operation.

Women farmers harvesting potatoes in their farms in Pakistan.

In Pakistan, the Potohar Organisation for Development Advocacy (PODA), is working to enhance the capacity of rural communities by providing information and raising awareness on sustainable agricultural practices. At its Aerial Agriculture Training Centre, powered by Internet of Things (IOT) devices such as soil moisture meters and hydrometers that provide real-time weather advisories through mobile phones, women farmers are being trained in the use of digital technology to enhance their productivity.

PODA has also established a climate-smart sustainable agriculture farm to assess the efficacy of modern technology and climate resilient crops. The findings are translated into local languages and shared across women farmer networks.

The government of India announced its interim budget in February 2024, where it proposed facilitation of farmer-centric policies, income support, price and insurance support and the promotion of technologies and innovations through startups. Budget allocations have been made to enhance agricultural production, and post-production mechanization using innovative technologies to meet the rising demands of food production of over a billion Indians in the near future.

Climate change has brought a shift in roles of women farmers in agriculture, and the governments moves towards innovative technology, mechanization and agri-tech solutions have the potential to significantly empower them in their new rolesprovided these solutions are gender inclusive in as many ways as possible.

For Munshi this means ensuring that all technological interventions must reach women farmers in ways that are conducive to them, and must take into account their economic empowerment so that they can participate in decision-making processes.

As South Asian countries target their goals for zero hunger in 2030, Munshi says, Women are the backbone of agriculture and their inclusion at all levels is the only way to accelerate the prospect of achieving this food security.

(This story was part of a cross-border reporting workshop organised by the U.S.-based East-West Center in Kathmandu, Nepal. IBNS is a media partner for the publication of the articles generated from the fellowship.)




Photo Courtesy: Kaamya Karthikeyan Facebook page

A 16-year-old mountaineer from Mumbai has added her name to the history book by becoming the youngest Indian to scale Mt Everest from the Nepal side.

Kaamya Karthikeyan is a Class 12 student of Navy Children School, Mumbai.

Congratulating her, Indian Navy posted on X: "#IndianNavy congratulates Ms Kaamya Karthikeyan d/o Cdr S Karthikeyan on becoming the youngest #Indian & the second youngest girl in the world to summit Mt Everest from the Nepal side. Kaamya has exhibited immense courage & fortitude in summiting the highest peaks in six of the seven continents."

#IndianNavy congratulates Ms Kaamya Karthikeyan d/o Cdr S Karthikeyan on becoming the youngest #Indian & the second youngest girl in the world to summit Mt Everest from the Nepal side.

Kaamya has exhibited immense courage & fortitude in summiting the highest peaks in six of the https://t.co/t4FLsiOFUZ pic.twitter.com/WHNoPAAYOi  SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) May 23, 2024

"#IndianNavy wishes young Kaamya the very best in her aspiration to summit the highest peaks of all seven continents, becoming the youngest girl to do so," the X post said.

According to reports, her father Cdr S Karthikeyan successfully summited Mt. Everest (8,849 m) on May 20.

In a Facebook post following her successful scaling of the iconic mountain, the teen posted: " It still hasn't sunk in that my dad and I have finally summitted the highest peak in the world! I had an audience with Sagarmatha at 1250 hrs on 20 May 24 and am extremely grateful to all of our well wishers, sponsors, supporters, sherpas and everyone else who has helped me achieve this feat!"
Sadhus hit streets in Kolkata against Mamata remark on Kartik Maharaja/ Courtesy: Avishek Mitra/ IBNS

Kolkata/IBNS: In protest against Mamata Banerjee's remarks slamming Kartik Maharaj, a monk in the charitable organisation Bharat Sevashram Sangha, whom she accused of acting on the behest of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, several sadhus hit the streets of Kolkata on Friday.

The monks were seen chanting slogans to remove Mamata as the chief minister of the state. Kartik Maharaj also walked in the protest rally.

"All monks are not the same... I have always respected Bharat Sevashram Sangha. But I came to know there is a monk in Baharampur, named Kartik Maharaj, who said he won't allow TMC agents to perform his work. I don't respect such a monk. I don't consider him as a monk," said Mamata.

Following massive outrage against her remarks, she repeated her comment and clarified that she only spoke about a particular monk.

"I have only spoken against an individual. I have no problem if someone supporting the BJP but I urge him to do it publicly... I don't speak without evidence," Mamata had said.

Sadhus hit streets of Kolkata against Mamata remark on Kartik Maharaja/ Courtesy: Avishek Mitra/ IBNS

On Friday, the monks started their protest rally from Bagbazar in North Kolkata and concluded the same near Swami Vivekananda's birthplace on Shimla Street. Monks from across the state joined the protest rally which they named 'Santh Swabhiman Yatra'.

Speaking to reporters during their rally, "It is unacceptable the way Mamata Banerjee attacked Kartik Maharaj from the election campaign stage. It is highly condemnable the way she is attacking monks to appease the people of a particular religious group (minorities) for electoral gains."

In reply, Kartik Maharaj had said, "I haven't said this. I challenge the allegation. Our organisation will protest and a case will be filed in the court.

Sadhus hit streets of Kolkata against Mamata remark on Kartik Maharaja/ Courtesy: Avishek Mitra/ IBNS"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday brought up the issue during his campaign for the BJP and accused the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government of minority appeasement politics.

Bharatiya Janata Party leader Locket Chatterjee supoorted the monk's rally and said Mamata'a comment "deeply wounded sentiments of many".
Screengrab of Pune Porsche accident/ courtesy: X

Pune/IBNS: In the first major action following outrage over alleged lapses by the police in the Pune Porsche accident, in which two techies in their 20s lost their lives, an inspector and an assistant police inspector have been suspended.

The case has now been transferred to the Pune Police Crime Branch.

Police Inspector Rahul Jagdale and Assistant Police Inspector Vishwanath Todkari were suspended for not following the protocol of informing their superiors, the deputy commissioner of police on night duty, about the case.

The cops were associated with the Yerwada police station, where the teenager was taken following the accident.

The accident occurred around 2.15 am on Sunday, when the 17-year-old teen, who had been drinking with his friends in two pubs in Pune to celebrate his Class 12 results, rammed into a motorcycle killing the two 24-year-old IT professionals in the Kalyani Nagar area.

Aneesh Awadhiya, who was riding the bike, was sent flying and hit a parked car, while Ashwini Koshta - who was riding pillion - was flung 20 feet into the air. Both of them died on the spot.

The boy was initially granted bail within 15 hours of the accident on terms like a 300-word essay on road safety, which triggered massive anger.

Later, the Juvenile Justice Board Thursday changed its order and sent him to a remand home till June 5.

The teen now faces a drunk driving charge that, for a first-time offender, allows a six-month jail term and a fine of Rs. 10,000. He could face the much sterner charge of culpable homicide not amounting to murder if the Juvenile Board allows the legal system to try him as an adult.

At 17 years and 8 months, the boy was four months short of the legal age for driving and eight years shy of Maharashtra's legal drinking age, which is 25.

His father, a prominent builder, has been sent to jail by a city magistrate court for 14 days - till June 7.

He has been charged with cheating under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code.
Photo courtesy: www.parliament.gov.bd

Kolkata/IBNS: Bangladesh's ruling party Awami League MP Anwarul Azim Anar, who came to Kolkata for medical treatment and was murdered on the outskirts of the city, was 'honey-trapped' by his killers, police investigation has revealed.

Anar, who came to Kolkata on May 12 and was last seen at a high-end apartment complex in New Town, was murdered and then his body was skinned and chopped up into pieces before being dumped across the city stuffed in plastic packets.

After the Bangladeshi politician was reported missing on May 14, a high-level joint investigation by cops from Kolkata and Dhaka was launched that led to the discovery of his murder.

The police arrested an illegal Bangladeshi immigrant, Jihad Hawladar, who has confessed to his involvement in the murder of the MP and the dismemberment of the body.

Dhaka Police are now looking into the role of Shilasti Rahman, a woman who the cops believe was acquainted with one of his killers and 'honey-trapped' the Bangladesh MP, delivering him to his end.

"The investigation indicates the MP fell into a 'honey trap'. It seems he was lured by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat," a Kolkata cop relayed info from Dhaka.

CCTV footage from the apartment had shown Anar entering the flat with a woman. Shilasti Rahman has been detained by Dhaka police.

Meanwhile, Kolkata police made a big breakthrough Friday morning in arresting Jihad Hawladar, who has directed the cops to at least four other Bangladesh nationals who may have been involved in the gruesome murder.

That list includes Akhtaruzzaman, a United States citizen of Bangladeshi origin, who might be the mastermind and was known to Shilasti Rahman. He may have paid Rs. 5 crore to Anar's killers.

Giving out chilling details, Hawladar claimed he and his accomplices killed Anar, skinned the body and removed the flesh, mincing it to remove any possibility of identification.

The remains, the bones were cut into small pieces and were packed into plastic bags, transported and dumped across Kolkata, he claimed.

The cops also believe some body parts were stored in a refrigerator in the flat, presumably before they could also be dumped.
Polling officers making preparations in Haryana/ courtesy: PIB

New Delhi/IBNS: Voting in 58 seats across seven states and one Union Territory-Delhi will take place Saturday in the sixth and penultimate phase of the Lok Sabha election .

Delhi and Haryana are voting in a single phase. For the seventh and last phase, 57 seats will be left.

Besides them, Bihar, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal will continue with their polls in this phase.

Polling for 42 Assembly Constituencies for the Odisha State Legislative Assembly will also take place simultaneously.

Concerned CEOs and state machinery have been directed to take adequate measures to manage the adverse impact of hot weather or rainfall wherever predicted.

Image courtesy: PIB

Polling stations are ready to welcome the voters with ample shade, drinking water, ramps, toilets, and other basic facilities to ensure that polling takes place in a comfortable and secure environment, an official statament from the Election Commission said.

The most riveting contest will be for the national capital Delhi, where the BJP swept all seven seats in 2019. This time, Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party is leaving no stone unturned with its "Jail Ka Jawab Vote Se" campaign. AAP is contesting four seats in the national capital, its ally Congress three.

This phase will be crucial for NDA, which has to keep its score intact to meet its "400-plus" target. In 2019, the BJP alone won 40 of the 58 constituencies going to polls in this phase in the Hindi heartland and the east. Its NDA allies won five more seats.

The parties of the Opposition INDIA bloc -- Trinamool Congress, National Conference and Samajwadi Party  had won five seats, the Congress none.

The last phase i.e. seventh phase of polling will be held on June 1 with counting of votes scheduled on June 4. Polling for 25 States/UTs and 428 constituencies was completed in the first five phases of the general elections.
Photo courtesy: Image Instagrammed by Manisha Koirala

London/IBNS: Actor Manisha Koirala recently met with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at 10 Downing Street in London where she was representing her country, Nepal, as it celebrated 100 years of its friendship treaty with the UK.

The actor has now shared the images from the meeting.

Manisha was seen donning a traditional saree as she met the UK PM and shared how thrilled she was to learn that most attendees of the event had watched her web series 'Heeramandi'.

She captioned the images writing: "t was an honor to be invited to 10 Downing Street to celebrate United Kingdom - Nepal relations and 100 years of our friendship treaty. It was such a pleasure to hear the Prime Minister @rishisunakmp speak fondly of our country #nepal. I took the liberty of inviting the P.M. and his family to come trek to Everest Base Camp. Can you believe that most of the attendees had seen #heeramandionnetflix and loved it ? I was thrilled!!

On the acting front, Manisha is currently basking in the success of Sanjay Leela Bhansalis debut web series Heeramandi where her role as Mallika Jaan has been highly lauded and well received by the audiences.
Photo Courtesy: Mitchell Brewing Co Facebook page

The name Osama Bin Laden still evokes a thrill in the hearts of people across the globe and this is evident after a UK-based brewery was forced to shut down its website after a beer manufactured by it and named after the dreaded late terrorist went viral.

Staff at Mitchell Brewing Co had to unplug phones and close their website temporarily because of demand for Osama Bin Lager, reported BBC.

The company described the beer on its website as a 'light refreshing lager with a hint of citrus taste'.

It named the company as the most popular production.

The beer also features a caricatured image of the late Al Qaeda leader.

The company also manufactures uniquely named Kim Jong Ale and Putin Porter.

"They're all tongue-in-cheek names  a nicer outlook on some horrible dictators," co-owner Luke Mitchell told BBC.

Husband and wife Luke and Catherine Mitchell runs the pub and the brewery which is currently trending on the social media for their uniquely named productions.

"We've woken up the last couple of mornings with thousands and thousands and thousands of notifications," Mitchell told BBC.

Catherine said the phone did not stop ringing for 48 hours.

The brewery donates 10 from each barrel of Osama Bin Lager to a charity that supports victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, reported the British media.
Drought conditions in Zambia have led to crop failure which has impacted people's health Photo Courtesy: UNICEF/Karin Schermbrucker

Droughts and floods in southern Africa stemming from El Nino have left millions of people food insecure, warns World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director Cindy McCain during a recent visit to Zambia  the epicentre of the crisis.

The droughts have destroyed harvests in areas where 70 per cent of the population depends on agriculture for survival.

Executive Director McCain said what she has seen has been both alarming and heartbreaking.

I met farmers who usually grow enough to feed their families and communities. This year they harvested nothing. Now imagine a similar scenario for millions of people throughout Southern Africa, and we have a humanitarian catastrophe, Ms. McCain said.

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El Ninos impact

Though the latest El Nino weather pattern is nearing its end, droughts caused by the weather-changing cycle will have repercussions for months ahead.

Temperatures have dramatically increased resulting in the driest February in decades in the region which caused a 20 per cent reduction in rainfall necessary for crop growth.

According to WFP, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi have been impacted the hardest and have all declared states of drought disaster. They risk significant crop loss with 40 and 80 per cent of their maize harvests decimated.

Step up now: McCain

Recognising that 61 million people were affected by El Nino, Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) at an Extraordinary Summit launched a humanitarian appeal for US$5.5 billion that will complement the internal resources of the impacted countries.

The team is calling for support to meet these humanitarian needs. Ms. McCain echoes the call for support.

Im asking the international community to join us and step up now. We cant ask millions to wait for the next harvest season  a year from now  to put food on their tables. These families need our support today while we help to build a more resilient future, she said.

Major funding shortfall

Though WFP has responded to this crisis, the programme still needs $409 million for six months of aid to benefit 4.8 million people in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

WFP has been working with governments and partners to help prepare communities for climate disasters before they hit. WFP unlocked over $14 million of anticipatory finance to aid over 1.2 million people expected to be impacted by El Nino in August 2023.

They have also offered support to communities in Lesotho, Madagascar, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe by providing early warning alerts on

weather risks, anticipatory cash transfers, drought-resistant seeds, agricultural training, and improved water sources.

WFP continues to work with governments to protect communities affected by climate shocks and in just a few weeks, will distribute about $10 million in insurance payouts to nearly 280,000 affected people over the coming six months.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Inviting more investments from Beijing, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif has asked Chinese firm MCC Tongsin Resources to invest in the mining sector of the country.

The Mining and Mineral sectors have been on the priority list of Special Investment Facilitation Council and a significant headway has also been achieved in this sector, reported ARY News.

The Chinese firm MCC Tongsin Resources is a research and investment company and a part of Metallurgical Group Corporation, which has been enlisted among the major Metallurgical Construction Contractors of the world, the newspaper reported.

The Chinese company earlier expressed its interest in enhancing its investment in Pakistans mining and minerals sectors.

The visit of the Chinese company to Pakistan is aimed at cementing ties between China and Pakistan and to assure that Pakistan would ensure security of Chinese nationals, working on different development projects, reported ARY News.

According to reports, China has invested sixty-five billion dollars in energy and infrastructure projects in Pakistan under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has posted on Instagram for the first time since facing intense online criticism about her pregnancy. The actress, expecting her first child with actor-husband Ranveer Singh, was trolled after appearing in public with a noticeable baby bump. Some social media users even claimed her bump was fake.



Deepika Padukone To Go Live On Instagram, May Address Pregnancy Trolls

Screenshot Of Deepika Padukone'S Instagram Story

On Thursday, Deepika shared an Instagram story saying, "Hi, Im going live tomorrow So stay tuned! Okay bye," without giving more details about the live session. Fans are curious if she will address the trolls during the live session.

Support has been pouring in for Deepika. On Wednesday, fellow actress Alia Bhatt publicly supported her. The backlash against Deepika began when she went to vote in the Mumbai Lok Sabha Election on May 20, where she faced harsh comments online about her appearance.

Also Read: Bollywood Stands United! Alia Bhatt And Other Actresses Support Deepika Padukone Amid Pregnancy Trolls

Journalist Faye DSouza also defended Deepika, writing on Instagram, "Dear social media, Deepika Padukone stepped out to do her democratic duty and vote. She did not ask for your feedback on her body or her pregnancy. You have no right to comment on any aspect of her life. Stop it. Behave." Alia Bhatt and her family members liked the post, showing their support.

Actress Shruti Seth remarked, Luckily @deepikapadukone is too busy taking over the world to give a damn! Shes walking all over their damn opinions. Other celebrities, like Aahana Kumra and TV star Tina Datta, also expressed their support for Deepika.

A Look Back At Ranveer Singh And Deepika Padukone's Fairytale Wedding

Picture oF Deepika And Ranveer/Instagram

Bollywood superstars Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in 2018. Their wedding was one of the most talked-about events of the year, capturing the hearts of fans around the world. The couple, who had been dating for six years, chose the stunning Lake Como in Italy as their wedding destination. The celebrations included two main ceremonies to honour both their traditions: a Konkani-style wedding on November 14, reflecting Deepika's South Indian heritage, and a Sindhi ceremony on November 15, in line with Ranveer's cultural background.

The wedding was followed by a grand reception in Mumbai, attended by the whos who of Bollywood.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone Hits The Camera And Walks Away As She Returns From Babymoon With Ranveer Singh

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
Preity Zinta's dazzling return to the spotlight at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival was truly remarkable. Known for her impressive presence and versatile performances in Bollywood, Preity made a triumphant comeback, wowing audiences with her glamorous look. After being away for over a decade, her appearance at Cannes created a buzz of excitement and admiration, showing why she is such a beloved figure in the industry.



Preity Zinta's Glamorous Return To Cannes After Over A Decade-Long Hiatus Turns Heads

The First Glimpse Of Preity Zinta From Cannes 2024



PZ sparkles in her first look from the 77th Cannes Film Festival #PreityZinta #Cannes2024 pic.twitter.com/KKEhIEKzoA  Preity Zinta Fandom (@PZ_Fandom) May 24, 2024

Preity first walked the Cannes red carpet in 2006, and her return was highly anticipated. She has always been known for her elegance and charm, and this year was no different. She wore a stunning white dress from Vivienna Lorikeet, decorated with beautiful pearl details. The dress had fancy bow-styled sleeves, a daring plunge neckline, and an open back, perfectly showing off her figure.

She matched her outfit with pearl-shaped earrings, adding a touch of refinement and letting her natural beauty shine. Her makeup was flawless, with nude eyeshadow, defined brows, mascara-coated lashes, subtle blush, and a soft lip color. Her hair was styled in a sleek, high bun with a sidelong fringe, giving her a timeless and elegant look as she posed for photos against the lovely backdrop of the French Riviera.

What Is Preity Zinta Doing At Cannes?

She was there to honour the famous Indian cinematographer Santosh Sivan, who received the prestigious Pierre Angenieux Award. Their work together began with the iconic film "Dil Se," where Sivan's amazing cinematography made Preity's performance in the song "Jiya Jale" even more memorable. Now, they are teaming up again for "Lahore 1947," marking Preity's exciting return to the big screen.

Also Read: Indian Student Wins Top Prize At Cannes For 16-Minute Short Film: Storyline, Director's Prize Money And More

Picture Of Preity Zinta/X

Preity shared behind-the-scenes photos from the film set with co-star Sunny Deol, giving fans a sneak peek at her new project. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced by Aamir Khan, "Lahore 1947" holds significant promise as Preity embarks on this new chapter in her career. Her captivating presence at Cannes suggests a bright future ahead, affirming that Preity Zinta's return will continue to captivate audiences and solidify her enduring legacy in cinema.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


Shah Rukh Khan, one of Bollywood's most beloved icons, has bravely faced several health challenges over the years. Despite his towering success and immense fame, his journey has been marked by a series of significant physical and medical struggles. Here are the times SRK struggled with his health leaving his fans worried.

Times when Shah Rukh Khan's health struggles, injuries and surgeries left fans worried.

1. Heatstroke in Ahmedabad following an IPL match

When the news broke out that Shah Rukh Khan is unwell, fans were seriously worried. Later, it was revealed that he was hospitalized because of dehydration due to heat stroke. Now, he is back in Mumbai and doing much better.

To all of Mr Khans fans and well wishers - he is doing well. Thank you for your love, prayers and concern   Pooja Dadlani (@pooja_dadlani) May 23, 2024

2. Shoulder injury sustained during the filming of Ra.One and Chennai Express.

During the shooting of Ra One, the actor suffered a shoulder injury but he ignored it and went on to shoot for Rohit Shetty's Chennai Express. His injury however got aggravated as he tried to perform his own stunts. He also fractured his toe on the sets of the film.

3. Hospitalised during the shooting of Happy New Year

The actor suffered another knee injury on the sets of Happy New Year. He was shooting for a song when when a door fell on him and he hurt his face and head. He was rushed to the hospital immediately.

4. Knee injury during the shooting of Fan

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As seen during the promotions of Dilwale, Shah Rukh Khan was suffering from a knee injury. SRK had injured his knee while shooting for Fan. However due to back to back shoots for Raees and Dilwale, he delayed his knee surgery.

5. Shoulder surgery during My Name Is Khan shoot

Months before the release of the movie, Shah Rukh Khan underwent a shoulder surgery in 2009. The causes of the injury were attributed to an old accident that occurred during the shooting of Dulha Mil Gaya, as well as a possible shoulder dislocation while filming a fight scene for Don 2.

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6. Back surgery during Kal Ho Naa Ho shoot

Shah Rukh Khan has had a long history of back problems, which started during the filming of his earlier movies. He suffered from severe back pain that sometimes made it difficult for him to stand or walk. He was then a prolapsed disc in his spine. After trying remedies which made things worse, the actor underwent a major spinal surgery in 2003 to correct this. It was a critical operation, and the recovery process was long and challenging.



After four days of shooting for Karan Johar's Kal Ho Naa Ho, Shah Rukh Khan had to undergo a complicated back surgery in Germany. He suggested the makers to replace him. However, the cast waited for him while he underwent surgery in New York. "Shah Rukh fell ill with his back after four days of shooting, and he said, Take me out of the film. We said no and we decided to delay it. We delayed the film by six months."

7. SRK suffered from depression in 2010

Shah Rukh Khan suffered from depression post his shoulder surgery in 2010. "Due to the shoulder injury and the suffering I had got into a depression mode but now I am out of it. I feel happy and boosted with energy. I feel so much healthier and refreshed from within," he said.

Also Read: 16 Celebs Who Didn't Shy Away From Conversing About Mental Health & Sharing Their Own Struggles

8. Hairline fracture during Koyla shoot

The actor had suffered a hairline fracture on his kneecap during the shooting of the 1997 movie Koyal, directed by Rakesh Roshan and starring Kajol and Salman Khan.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan Health Update: Juhi Chawla Says The Actor Is Feeling Much Better

9. Rib fractures during Darr

The actor suffered three fractures in ribs during the shooting of the 1993 Yash Chopra movie. He was filming for an action sequence when his co-actor Anupam Kher accidentally lifted his leg.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
The Philippines, which in recent years has emerged as one of the go-to destinations for medical aspirants from across the world for their affordable and quality education, has just made the deal even sweeter. The Philippines has amended the Philippine Medical Act of 1959 to allow Indian students to register and practice medicine in the country.

What has changed for Indian students

Under this new provision, Indian students who complete their Doctor of Medicine degree from a Philippine College of Medicine recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), along with a 12-month internship, will be eligible to register and practice medicine in the Philippines. The CHED will issue the necessary certification to facilitate this process, ensuring a smooth transition for Indian graduates.

Also read: Why Indians Go Abroad To Study MBBS

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Complies with NMC criteria

The new regulations also comply with the National Medical Commission's registration criteria, allowing Indian graduates to practice medicine in India after earning their MD degrees in the Philippines. It should be noted that in 2023, the NMC de-recognized the Bachelor of Science course in the Philippines and only allowed candidates from their four-year MD program to practice medicine in India after they complete a year of internship.

Also read: Some Australian Universities Are Imposing A 'Blanket Ban' On Indian Students

"This provision is particularly beneficial for Indian medical students, who have been increasingly choosing the Philippines for their medical education due to factors such as the high quality of education, English as the medium of instruction, and affordable living costs. The new regulations also align with the Indian Medical Commission's requirements for registration, allowing Indian graduates to practice medicine in India after obtaining their MD degrees from the Philippines," Kadwin Pillai, Director of Transworld Educare and Chairman of Kings International Medical Academy, said.

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Medical education in Philippines

The Philippines has 37 NMC-approved medical universities with tuition fees ranging from 20-25 lakhs. Every year, around 2,000 Indian students take MBBS admissions in medical universities there.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
If you follow geopolitics or global news events, you are likely aware that the world is not exactly at peace right now. Russia and Ukraine have been involved in a war for more than two years, Israel has been bombing Gaza for over six months, there is an increasing threat of China invading Taiwan, and several regional conflicts are ongoing.

Is World War III around the corner

The last time the world saw such high levels of conflict, it led to World War II, the worst war to date in human history. Given the current tensions, there is a terrifying prospect of a third World War breaking out. As shocking as it might sound, World War III could just be around the corner.

BCCL/ File

When will World War III start

According to Indian astrologer Kushal Kumar, World War III is just weeks away. In a post on Medium, the Vedic astrologer based in Haryana's Panchkula said that World War III could break out as early as June 18, 2024.

"Tuesday, June 18, 2024, has the strongest planetary stimulus to trigger WW3 although June 10 and 29 may have a say as well," he said.

Also read: 'Time Traveller' Claims To Know How World War III Will Start

Who is Kushal Kumar

Kumar is a Vedic astrologer who uses charts showing planetary alignments to make forecasts about future events. He claims to have earlier predicted the escalation of tensions between Israel and Hamas, China and Taiwan, and Russia and NATO.

Medium

Other major world events in 2024

According to him, the breakout of World War III is not the only major event the world may witness in 2024.

"Some persons charged with authority to govern in some countries may find it tough and hard to cope with the major worrisome emerging scenario. Some are likely to be seriously unwell or may even resign. Upheavals in the political scene cannot be ruled out. In short, where vulnerable, the contemporary planetary movements suggest that the army may step in to take overall control," he wrote.

Also read: Some Of Baba Vanga's Predictions For 2024 Have Already Come True

What Nostradamus and Baba Vanga said about WW3

It should be noted that some prophecies attributed to Nostradamus and Baba Vanga have also predicted a major war in 2024. Nostradamus predicted, "Red adversary will become pale with fear, putting the great Ocean in dread," which some interpret as suggesting war breaking out in the ocean. Baba Vanga, the blind Bulgarian mystic, is also said to have predicted the outbreak of World War III in 2024.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Crypto enthusiasts and animal lovers around the world are mourning the death of Kabosu, arguably one of the most famous dogs on the internet, who passed away at the age of 18. The Japanese Shiba Inu which became an internet sensation nearly a decade ago had been suffering from leukaemia and liver disease and died on Friday.

Passed away peacefully

"Today Kabosu, our community's shared friend and inspiration, peacefully passed in the arms of her person. The impact this one dog has made across the world is immeasurable. She was a being who knew only happiness and limitless love. Please keep her spirit and her family in your heart, and most importantly, carry her with you as your story continues - we are all fortunate for hers to have touched and shaped ours," Dogecoin said in a social media post.

Also read: Memecoin Shiba Inu Plans To Launch It's Own Blockchain Soon

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We will be holding a farewell party for Kabo-chan on Sunday, May 26th. It will be held at Flower Kaori in Kotsu no Mori, Narita City, from 1 pm to 4 pm, a blog post by her owner, Atsuko Sato, said.



How Kabosu became a meme

Sato, a teacher in Japan, adopted Kabosu in 2008 when she was sent to an animal shelter after her puppy mill shut down. Kabosu became an internet sensation when a 2010 photo of her with crossed paws and a slight smirk spread on Reddit and Tumblr. A Reddit user referred to the image as "Doge," and that name just stuck with the meme community.

Also read: Abandoned Shiba Inu Named Deng Deng Gets Auctioned

TWITTER

From meme to memecoin

Sometime in 2013, amid the cryptocurrency craze, Kabosus viral meme picture inspired the creation of Dogecoin, which started as a memecoin. However, it became massively popular after Elon Musk tweeted about it.

TWITTER

Elon Musk, the Dogefather

Though his relationship with the developers of Dogecoin is unclear, Musk has in the past referred to himself as the "Dogefather" and "Dogecoin CEO." In April 2023, Musk had even changed the iconic blue bird logo of Twitter and replaced it with the Shiba Inu dog emblem of Dogecoin.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
With new trends emerging regularly, it can be pretty hard to keep up. Just when we got a grasp of what dry promotion, office peacocking and quiet quitting meant, heres another viral workplace trend called Quiet Vacationing.



In an ideal setup, to achieve a healthy work-life balance, employees typically request time off from their managers before going on a vacation. However, with "quiet vacationing" emerging, individuals are now opting to take time off without notifying their bosses. This trend, particularly popular among millennials, is gaining traction, as per reports.

According to a CNBC report and a survey conducted by The Harris Poll, around 78% of employees in the United States, predominantly millennials and Gen Z, do not utilize all of their allocated Paid Time Off (PTO) days.

Whats The Reason Behind Not Utilizing Paid Leave & Sneaking Off Without Informing The Boss?

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According to Libby Rodney, Chief Strategy Officer at The Harris Poll, as cited by the publication, younger professionals refrain from requesting time off due to pressure to meet deadlines and maintain productivity. Additionally, they hesitate to request Paid Time Off (PTO) for fear of being perceived as "slackers."



Allegedly, Gen Z workers are more outspoken about companies that fault employees for seeking time off, while millennials tend to address such issues discreetly and independently, as per reports.

Libby Rodney said, They will figure out how to get an appropriate work-life balance, but its happening behind the scenes. Its not exactly quiet quitting, but more like quiet vacationing, as quoted by CNBC.

Also Read: What Is 'Dry Promotion'? All About This Silent Threat To Employee Satisfaction & Loyalty

How do employees behave during "quiet vacationing"?

As reported by the Guardian, approximately 40% of millennials have acknowledged participating in this trend, opting to take time off without notifying their supervisors. The outlet highlighted various tactics employed by these workers during "quiet vacationing."

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Some employees create the illusion of working by scheduling emails to be sent during working hours or even outside of them, giving the impression of overtime. Additionally, they may periodically move their computer mouse on company messaging platforms to simulate activity. Libby Rodney, speaking to CNBC, described this as part of a larger "workaround culture," where individuals strive for work-life balance discreetly. She emphasized that while it's not precisely quitting, it resembles "quiet vacationing."



Nearly 40% of the workforce comprises millennials, who have resorted to extreme measures to maintain the facade of productivity, according to a Harris Poll report. About 40% admitted to periodically moving their computer mouse to simulate online activity, while an equal number confessed to sending emails after hours to feign working overtime.

Instead of going at it head-to-head and worrying about if youll rustle the feathers of your boss during a tight economic quarter, millennials are just kind of doing what they need to do to take their vacation, Rodney told Fortune.
While the world had set its eyes on Cannes Film Festivals red carpet, desi girl Priyanka Chopra was prepping to surprise her fans and followers. Citadel actress Priyanka Chopra travelled to Rome, Italy to attend Bulgaris 140th anniversary recently.

The occasion also served as the debut of the luxury brand's latest high-end jewelry collection, Aeterna. Joining her for the event were fellow brand ambassadors Shu Qi, Anne Hathaway, and Liu Yifei, who attended the anniversary gala dinner held at Terme di Diocleziano, also known as The Baths of Diocletian, recently opened to the public.

Priyanka Chopras Million-Dollar Look And The Jaw Dropping Price Of The Necklace!

Priyanka Chopra/Instagram

Priyanka Chopra donned a stunning necklace from the new collection, hailed as one of Bulgari's most prized Serpenti necklaces  the Serpenti Aeterna necklace.



According to Vogue, this remarkable creation features approximately 140 carats of diamonds, each representing a year of Bulgari's esteemed legacy. The centerpiece of the Serpenti Aeterna is an exceptionally rough diamond exceeding 20 carats, meticulously crafted into seven pear-shaped drops, making it one of Bulgari's most valuable creations.

The diamonds are intricately set within a sinuous, three-dimensional wave structure adorned with 698 baguette diamonds, totaling 61.81 carats. Completing this masterpiece required 2,800 hours of meticulous workmanship and is estimated to be valued at an astounding $43 million (Rs 357 crore approx).

The official website of Bulgari states,

A journey through Bulgari's 140-year legacy is born from a single rough stone totalling 200 caratsBeginning with a single block of wax, a senior artisan sculpted and moulded the necklace's 18 distinct elements before wielding a flame to delicately curve and imbue the composition with grace.

Also Read: Basketball Court To Home Theatre: Inside Priyanka Chopra And Nick Jonas's Rs 166 Crore Lavish LA Mansion

Bulgari/Instagram

Priyanka Chopra complemented the iconic necklace with an off-shoulder Del Core ensemble in black and cream. Several reports also suggest that she opted for a bob cut hairdo to make the necklace visible in its entirety.



In March This Year, Bulgari Inaugurated Its Store In Mumbai

Priyanka Chopra's most recent visit to India was in March, during Bulgari's Mumbai store inauguration alongside Reliance heiress Isha Ambani. For the occasion, the actress, who is set to appear in the film "Heads of State" alongside Idris Elba and John Cena, adorned herself with a rose gold necklace from Bulgari's Serpenti collection. Valued at a staggering $82,000 (approximately Rs 68 lakh), as reported by People magazine.



Also Read: From Rs 500 Crore Necklace To Rs 53 Crore Ring, Nita Ambani Literally Looked Like A Million Bucks!

Priyanka Chopra/Instagram

Priyanka Chopras Association With Bulgari

In 2021, Priyanka Chopra became a global ambassador for Bulgari. She expressed, "There are many aspects of this iconic brand that resonate with me, but our shared appreciation for India and its beauty is what truly connected us... from the rare gemstones featured in Bulgari's creations to the aromatic flowers in their fragrances and beyond." Chopra eagerly anticipated a fruitful partnership and the opportunity to adorn herself with Bulgari's exquisite jewelry.
In a concerted effort to bolster Europes aerial defence capabilities, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk have jointly approached European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen with a proposal for an air defence

shield, backed by EU funding.

The initiative, as reported by Bloomberg, is set to be a key topic of discussion at the forthcoming European Council summit slated for June 27-28.

The proposal is said to have garnered the support of von der Leyen, who is vying for re-election in the imminent European elections. She expressed her agreement on social media, advocating for enhanced collective defence measures.

In our support for Ukraine, we must also fortify our own defences, she tweeted. The time calls for unity and collaborative endeavours, such as the air defence shield put forth by @kmitsotakis and @donaldtusk.

The proposal outlines a vision for the shield to serve as a bulwark against hostile aircraft, missiles, and drones.

In 2023, Greece and Poland, in partnership with the United States, led NATO members in military spending relative to their GDP.

   iefimerida.gr
The Greek Parliament has received documentation today regarding the investigation into the Tempi train tragedy, the worst in recent memory.

The files, which were initially archived in Larissa, are being reintroduced at the order of the

Supreme Court. The documents do not specify crimes by political figures but they target all those responsible for tampering with the scene of the tragedy

In particular, the criminal file concerns former Health Minister Athanasios Plevris, Deputy Transport Minister Michalis Papadopoulos, Deputy Health Minister Zoi Rapti, and former Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister Christos Triantopoulos.

With the documents now, in the hands of parliament, political parties have the option to propose the establishment of a preliminary committee to investigate potential criminal responsibilities of former ministers.

This development comes in the wake of the deadliest rail disaster in Greek history, which occurred on February 28, 2023, near Evangelismos in the Tempi Valley, Thessaly.

The head-on collision between a passenger train and a freight train resulted in at least 57 deaths and numerous injuries.

The incident, primarily attributed to human error, led to nationwide vigils, protests, and strikes by railway workers.

Despite the resignation of the then transport minister and other officials, no politicians have been investigated for their involvement in the events leading up to the disaster as of 2024.

The case has sparked public debate over the effectiveness and impartiality of the justice system.

   iefimerida.gr
In the latest uptick of rising migration, the Greek Coast Guard rescued a vessel with 37 migrants off the coast of Crete.

Authorities said they were bracing for an influx of illegal entries as crossings to Crete have soared in recent months.

Data from the Greek

Coast Guard show that the flow of migrants from the Egyptian and Libyan coasts to southern Crete and the small island of Gavdos has been on the rise since the end of last summer

In the first two months of 2024 alone, 12,573 migrants were detected in the region, a stark contrast to the 666 rescued refugees and migrants recorded throughout 2023.

The increase in migrant flows to Crete is attributed to heightened maritime surveillance in the eastern Aegean, following improved cooperation between the Greek and Turkish Coast Guards. The route from North Africa to Europe is one of the most perilous, with refugees and irregular migrants traversing hundreds of miles of open sea in relatively small boats.

The majority of the rescued migrants originate from Egypt and Afghanistan, with a rising number of Palestinian refugees also making the illegal crossings.

Most of these arrivals are not recorded in Crete but on the outlying island of Gavdos, which lacks the infrastructure to receive migrants.

Migration officials say increased crossings to Crete also come as maritime surveillance in the eastern Aegean has been bolstered.

   iefimerida.gr
Greeces Development Ministry imposed administrative fines of a total amount of 305,000 euros on servicers and debt collection companies for violation of the relevant legislation.More specifically: A fine

Development Ministry imposes fines on 3 servicers and debt collection firms -  
Dr Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), has denied accusations that he announced a ban on smoking and ritual scenes in Nigerian films.

This is coming after a statement made on the ban at a national stakeholders engagement on Smoke-free Nollywood in Enugu on Wednesday went viral, with Husseini decrying the dangers of smoking to health and how such portrayals in films could negatively influence the younger generation.

In an interview with The Nation on Thursday, Husseini said that he was misquoted and quoted out of context about the subject.

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Husseini stated as a classification board, the NFVCB will not impose any policies that limit innovation.

READ MORE: FG Bans Money Ritual, Smoking Scenes In Nollywood Movies

In his words, My attention has been drawn to a couple of trending headlines that suggested that the FG, through the NFVCB, has banned smoking and ritual scenes in Movies. Interestingly, there is no part of the report following the headline where I was quoted to have announced the ban. I did NOT announce a ban on smoking, or smoking, and ritual scenes in movies at the (southeast zone) stakeholders engagement on a healthy screen and the campaign to have a smoke free Nollywood which was held in Enugu in collaboration with CAPPAfrica . No, I did NOT.

What I mentioned in a speech that I have shared here is the existence of a regulation (NFVCB Regulations 2024) that in line with global best practices prohibits the PROMOTION and GLAMOURISATION of Money Ritual, Ritual Killing, Tobacco, Tobacco product, Nicotine products in movies, musical videos and skits. The regulation aims at discouraging the unnecessary depiction, promotion, advertisement, or glamourisation of tobacco or nicotine products in movies, musical videos, and skits.

The regulation demands the display of a health warning for necessary smoking scenes that are required for historical accuracy, or for educational purposes, and to depict a negative lifestyle in movies, musical videos, and skits. The required health warning shall be displayed at the commencement of the work and at the end.

Although we will issue an official position and cause the regulation to be published upon gazetting, I want to assure that as a classification board, we will not implement any policy that will muzzle creativity. Any movie, skit, or musical video that displays or depicts

Tobacco or nicotine products, brands, or use that is necessary to the realization of a narrative shall be given the appropriate classification (rating) and shall not be shown to persons below the age of 18. So there is no truth in the headlines
A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos State, on Friday, ordered the interim forfeiture of $4,719,054, N830,875,611, and several properties linked to Godwin Emefiele, former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor.

The order was issued by Justice Yellim Bogoro after an ex-parte motion by Bilkisu Buhari and C.C. Chineye, counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The forfeited funds, held in various banks, were linked to Omoile Anita Joy, Deep Blue Energy Service Limited, Exactquote Bureau De Change Ltd, Lipam Investment Services Limited, Tatler Services Limited, Rosajul Global Resources Ltd, and TIL Communication Nigeria Ltd.

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Emefieles properties forfeited to the Federal Government include; 94 Units of 11 Storey building under Construction at 2, Otunba Elegushi 2nd Avenue (Formerly Club) Road, iKoyi, Lagos; AM Plaza, 11 Story Office Space, Situate on 1E, Otunba Adedoyin Crescent, Lekki Peninsula Scheme 1, Lagos; Imore Industrial Park 1, Esa Street, Imoore Land purchased with (Deep Bive Industrial Town, Oriade LCDA, Amuwo Odofin LGA, Lagos; Mitrewood and Tatler Warehouse (Furniture Plant at Bogije) near Elemoro Lagos, Owolomi Village, Ibeju-Lekki LGA, Lagos and 2 properties purchased from Chevron Nigeria, Closed PFA Fund, Block B.Lot.Twin Completed Property Lakes Estate. Lekki, Lagos.

Others include; One plot measuring 1,038.069 sqm, at Lekki Foreshore Estate Scheme, Block A, Plot 4, Foreshore Estate, Eti-Osa, LGA; Estate located at 100, Cottonwood Coppel Texas Drive, Coppel, Texas, Owned by Lipam investment Services; a Land at 1, Bunmi Owulude Street, (Maruwa), Lekki Phase 1, Lagos and a Property Situate on 8, Bayo Kuku Road, lkoyi Lagos.

READ ALSO: FCT Police Detain Officer Over Accidental Discharge

The EFCC had sought an interim forfeiture of the monies and properties under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, Section 44(2)(b) of the Constitution, and the courts inherent jurisdiction.

The anti-graft agency requested an interim order forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria the funds held in the accounts listed in Schedule A, which are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

An Interim order forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria Properties provided in 2nd Schedule B which are proceeds of unlawful activities.

An Order directing the publication In any National Newspaper, the interim order under reliefs 1-2 above, for anyone who Is interested in the properties and funds sought to be forfeited to appear before this Honourable Court to show cause within 14 days why the final order of forfeiture of the said properties and funds should not be made in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

In granting the ex-parte motion, Justice Bogoro after he had taken submission of the EFCCs counsel, said: I have listened to the submission of the applicants counsel and also perused the motion just moved, together with the affidavit in support.

The case was, however, adjourned to July 2, 2024, for the motion for final forfeiture.


Renowned playwright, Wole Soyinka has criticized the Nigerian government for imprisoning Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a recent interview, the Nobel Laureate emphasized that Kanu has the right to advocate for an independent Biafra, noting that he has never been accused of any violent acts such as bombing or killing.

According to Soyinka, the governments action is tantamount to kidnapping.

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His words: It is a mistake keeping Nnamdi Kanu in prison, I believe. In fact, they kidnapped him.

His language was inciteful, yes, no question about that. But you dont arrest, you dont kidnap people. Buhari had an obsession with kidnapping people.

That seemed to be his trademark. It is like he couldnt fulfil himself unless hes put somebody in a crate and brought them back.

READ ALSO: Nothing Can Wash Away Criminality  LPs Kenneth Okonkwo Dumps Abure-Led NWC

I think that politically speaking, if they have any real charges against him, well, since he is in their hands, they should try him. All these technical postponements, delays, and avoiding the basic issues, for me, is counter-productive.

Soyinka added that, He is one of the younger generations who inherited a burden of defeat, of resentment and a determination in their view, not to make the mistakes of their predecessors.

They have a new will, they have a new understanding of history. The only problem I had with it was the language Nnamdi Kanu used over Radio Biafra. I listened to some of it, very incendiary and also disrespectful, I thought, of even his own people. I dont want to go into details but all you have to do is listen to it.

I used a certain expression in recent contributions, those of us who stood on that side, we fought for a Biafra of conscience and for me, that is very critical.

People like Nnamdi Kanu should not, IPOB or MASSOB (Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra) for that matter, should not act against what I call the core of our humanity, which is one of conscience.
Promise Kelvin Anagbogu, also known as Lord Lamba, a Nigerian skit maker, has failed to appear in court after seeking child custody.

The child custody hearings between him and reality TV star Queen Oyekanmi was postponed due to his absence from the courtroom on Thursday.

Recall that the skit creator sought for custody of their child after his baby mama, Queen Oyekanmi, became engaged to another man.

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The hearing was postponed to July 18, 2024, after the entertainer sent a representative in his absence.

The individual who appeared on behalf of the artist claimed she had no idea why he did not appear in court.

READ MORE: OritseFemi Shares How He And Estranged Wife Found Out About His Secret Child Online

A source who spoke to the media while at the courthouse said;

Today was the court hearing and Queen was there but her baby daddy didnt show up. His lawyer didnt come, instead he sent his assistant to represent him.

He has been sending his lawyer to court behind Queens back. His lawyer appeared in court twice without her knowing about it. They told the judge that she has been served and that she refused to come to court.

The first court case was for the 7th of March and the second was for the 4th of April. The idea was for them to keep appearing in court without her knowledge so the judge can rule in his favour. Thanks to her lawyers who told her to go to court to find out if he had fully withdraw the case.

Today, May 23 was the hearing date, but because he didnt appear in court, his lawyer requested for a new date, so it was adjourned to 18th of July for hearing. He hasnt been sending money for the childs upkeep. According to the mediator whos trying to reconcile them, he said his reason for not sending money is because hes not seeing the baby.

Queen is not bothered about him sending money, she doesnt even need his money. All she wants is for her child to be with her, so she can give her the best upbringing, thats all.

SEE POST:


The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Thursday, assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the States commitment to his Renewed Hope Agenda.

The assurance was given during its one-million-man march, led by Tony Okocha, Chairman of the APC Caretaker Committee in the State, in collaboration with members of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Okocha said the rally served as an affirmation of Rivers States continued support for President Tinubu.

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The rally, according to Okocha, is also in support of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Speaking to the crowd at the APC state secretariat, Okocha clarified the reasons for having Wikes picture on the banner of the rally, stating that the one-million-man match is not an APC event but an event of Mr. Presidents family in Rivers State.

The Rivers APC chairman alluded to the fact that Wike championed the victory of Tinubu in the state in the last election, describing him as 001 and the leader of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Rivers State.

He added that their action is part of their move to again woo Wike to the Party to secure the victory of Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Okocha said: This man called Ezenwo Nyesom Wike is a game changer. He has a Midas touch. You remember that we have been wooing him to come over to Macedonia to help us. This is again one of those attempts to woo him to come over to APC and help us so that well continue to win the election for Mr President. Particularly when the election comes for 2027.

READ ALSO: Rivers Crisis: Wike Is Dancing Naked In Open Market, Call Him To Order  Edwin Clark Tells PDP, APC

Reflecting on the challenges encountered during the 2023 general elections, Okocha highlighted the unfortunate impediments faced by President Tinubus supporters within APC in the state, citing undue threats from the then-party leadership.

A time came in Rivers State when we could not campaign for our presidential candidate using the party platform upon which he emerged because we were threatened by the entire leadership of APC in Rivers State.

They told us that the man we were supporting, Bola Tinubu, was too old and that he had become senile. How can we support a man who will die any moment soon, that he was at the departure lounge?

They said to us that we were supporting a man who is medically unfit and was using all the social media platforms to paint him as someone who defecates on himself. I want to state here that President Tinubu is the best thing that happened to Nigeria, he said.

On the challenges faced by the Nigerian economy, Okocha insisted that Tinubu cannot, in one year, solve the problems the country has accumulated over the past 30 years.

Rome was not built in a day. Nigeria suffered setbackspolitical, economic, socio-culturaland we have a leader who just came on the throne for nearly one year.

Can he possibly upturn the mistakes of 30 or 50 years in one year? So its a process and the process began the same day he took the oath of office. The President was very clear when he said that he wanted to fix Nigeria and he said that fuel subsidies were gone.

Today, states, federal, and local government areas are packing money in billions for the development of the state. I am aware that the first and biggest project that will transverse the length and breadth of Nigeria is being carried out under Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Okocha said.
Nigerian reality actress Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, often known as Phyna, has resumed her public criticism of Multichoice the organizers of BBNaija for failing to pay her money.

Recall that Phyna won Big Brother Naija: Level Up in 2022.

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In a series of prior social media outbursts this year, the BBNaija winner disclosed that she is yet to receive a portion of her prize money from the show.

While Phyna earned the N50 million grand prize from BBNaija, reports indicate the other presents, including the Quidax Global 1 BTC, were supposed to be handed to her by the shows sponsors, but she has not received them since 2022.

She claimed that when she won the competition in 2022, Bitcoin was only worth N22 million, but it is now worth more than N100 million.

In a recent viral video, Phyna expressed her irritation as she cried to the event organisers, demanding to know why they hadnt settled her while they were preparing for a new show.

Phyna said that they told her to do her worst, saying that if she takes the case to court, she would never win.

This statement infuriated the internet personality, who added that she is already exhausted by the situation.

She thereby called on Nigerians to help her, saying she simply wants her money paid.

READ MORE: I Was 13 Years Old When I Was Scammed Of N10,000 During My Pursuit To Join Wizkids Label  Seyi Vibez

She said; Nigerians Please Help Me, Big Brother Naija are still owing me $1BTC over N100Million that I won, They have refused to give me the Money and are saying I should do my worst and take them to Court that i cant win them

Phyna added; Big Brother Has Ruined My Brand And Image, and set my up for Failure, Making Me Drag Them online For Something Thats Rightfully Mine thereby Making Nigerians See Me As A Nuisance and a Very Troublesome Bad Person, Since 2022 When I won Big Brother Naija they Have Been Owing Me The ($1BTC) N100Million Prize Money I won and they have Refused to give me till today telling me I can never win them in Court and i should go ahead and sue them.

Watch the video below


The House of Representatives, on Thursday, passed for a second reading, a bill to reintroduce the old national anthem.

Leading the debate on the general principles of the bill, the sponsor of the proposed law, Julius Ihonvbere, anchored his argument on the need for patriotism and nationalism.

In his contribution, Kingsley Chinda, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party noted that the old national anthem was a colonial heritage which should not be considered in a post-independent Nigeria.

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Chinda said there must be a clear cause to make laws, adding that we will be taking ourselves back by passing the bill.

What value will it add to us as a nation? he queried.

He said Nigerians are looking up to parliament to make laws that add value to the country.

I stand to oppose it. I ask the leader to withdraw the bill, he said.

His argument was supported by the member representing Jere Federal Constituency, Borno State Ahmad Satomi.

Let us do something that will bring development in the eyes of the international community. Let us think of something that will bring progress, he said.

Ahmed Jaha from Borno supported the bill, arguing that the Arise O Compatriot anthem has not benefitted the country.

He said Nigerians do not identify with the current anthem.

When Ben Kalu, the deputy speaker who presided over plenary, put the bill to a voice vote, the nays were louder than the ayes. However, he said the nays had it.

Meanwhile, the bill has passed second reading in the red chamber.

READ ALSO: May 29: Tinubu Orders Ministers To Showcase Scorecards, Calls For Low-key Celebration

The proposed legislation passed second reading after Opeyemi Bamidele, majority leader of the senate, led a debate on it.

Bamidele said there is a need to have an anthem that would promote patriotism in the country.

Contributing to the debate on the general principles of the bill, Victor Umeh, senator representing Anambra central, said an anthem is supposed to be motivational, adding that the current one is anything but emotive.

The old one we are seeking to bring back is one that evokes emotions, Umeh said.

A national anthem is supposed to be motivational. There is motivation in the old anthem.

I think from what my colleagues have said, there is nothing in the current anthem that motivates our people. If we bring it back, our children will be more committed to the ideals of nationhood.

This old national anthem carries everything together.

On his part, Plang Diket, senator representing Plateau central, said the old anthem promotes brotherhood.

Unity can only be acquired when there is brotherhood, Diket said.

The reintroduction of brotherhood in our national anthem is fundamental.

Though we are different, we are bound together. This bill talks about Nigerias flag. You go around and you see it tattered. There is a need for Nigerians to respect national symbols.

Okechukwu Eze, senator representing Enugu North, said the current anthem does not pass any message.

The bill passed second reading after it was put to a voice vote by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The old national anthem was introduced on October 1, 1960, after Nigeria gained independence.

It served as the national anthem until 1978, when it was replaced with the current tune.
The Senate, on Thursday, resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to probe projects abandoned across the nation by the Federal Government.

The resolution of the upper legislative chamber followed a motion sponsored by Jimoh Ibrahim, Senator representing Ondo South.

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While moving his motion, Ibrahim noted there are about 11,856 megaprojects that have been abandoned by the federal government.

His words: In 2011, President Goodluck Jonathan set up a presidential committee on Federal Government-abandoned projects in Nigeria.

The committee visited the 36 states in Nigeria and identified 11,866 projects abandoned by the federal government since Nigerias independence in 1960.

According to reports, about 63 percent of the entire projects since independence were abandoned. Even when a project is successfully delivered, it usually comes with an overrun of about 40 percent, while most delivered projects record 10 percent underperformance.

READ ALSO: Its A Mistake Keeping Nnamdi Kanu In Prison  Soyinka Knocks FG

That 63 percent of projects abandoned in Nigeria is worse than any country under comparison. The abandonment of the project is of significant concern because of the project costs, which constitute a significant part of the GDP.

While spending on a public project in the UK is now about one trillion British pounds, Nigeria has no idea of the total amount spent on public projects, whether successful or unsuccessful, since independence.

The implication of very many projects abandoned could be seen on the economy practically as direct investment declined from $8.8 billion in 2011 to $3.3 billion in 2019, and the current account balances in that year from 510.6 billion to $-17 billion while the population was growing by around five percent. About 86 percent of the citizens were living under 52 a day between 2011 and 2019.

Public debt increased from 17 percent of the GDI in 2011 to 29 percent in 2019.

The senator said in the case of Ajaokuta alone, over $10 billion has been spent without any steel production.

The motion was adopted after it was put to a voice vote by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.


The Federal Government, on Thursday, disclosed it has reached an advanced stage of raising more than N35 billion required to restart the Light Mill Section (LMS) of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

Shuaibu Audu, Minister of Steel Development, said this in Abuja, at the Ministerial Sectoral Update on the performance of President Bola Tinubus administration in the last one year.

According to him, a presidential approval had been given to raise the amount from a local financial institution, as part of the Tinubus administration resolve to boost the economic profile of Nigeria.

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The local financial institution has given us a final offer.

I have done a cover letter and forwarded the relevant documents to the Minister of Finance to be able to take the financing on behalf of the Federal Government, he said.

He said that the LMS had the capacity of producing 400,000 metric tonnes of iron rods per annum, and was critical in shoring up industrialisation in Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Elections: Ill Resuscitate Ajaokuta Steel, Dredge Niger River  Tinubu

According to him, he is working closely with the minister of works to supply the iron rods needed for road construction projects in the country from the section.

There are so many roads being constructed in the country, about 30,000km of roads across the six geo-political zones.

We understand that the ministry of works needs about seven million metric tonnes of iron rods over that four year period (first term) to construct these roads, Ajaokuta can produce 400,000 tonnes, he said.

He said that advanced discussions were held with the Minister of Defence, who is in charge of Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), to revive its engineering workshop to produce military hardware to enhance security in Nigeria.

So what is required is that we have a Metallurgical Development Centre that has the ability to provide us with the lead and zinc required, to be able to provide and produce some of these military hardware, he said.
Police are at the scene of a shooting inside Delaware County Linen on West Fourth Street in Chester on Wednesday. Read more

The gunman who shot five of his coworkers  killing two brothers and wounding three others  at a Chester industrial laundry and linen company Wednesday morning calmly walked through the facility as he fired a handgun at his victims in a cold-blooded shooting, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said Thursday.

Wilbert Rosado-Ruiz, 61, of Chester, was charged with two counts of first-degree homicide in the deaths of brothers Leovanny Pena Pena, 30, and Giguenson Pena Pena, 26, as well as multiple counts of aggravated assault, reckless endangerment, and a firearms charge.

According to Stollsteimer, Rosado-Ruiz, an employee of Delaware County Linen since 2016, had a verbal dispute with a female coworker on the morning of the shooting. After Rosado-Ruiz walked outside to make a phone call, Stollsteimer said, security footage showed that he returned to the laundry facility, pulled the gun from his waistband, and shot the woman in the chest before calmly and methodically pacing the building and firing at four others, killing the Pena Pena brothers.

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Im tired of people f with me, Rosado-Ruiz said before shooting a surviving victim in the back, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest.

 READ MORE: A disgruntled employee of a Chester linen company killed two coworkers and injured three others, police say

He then attempted to shoot a sixth person, the affidavit said, but the gun jammed, or was out of ammunition. Investigators found two bullet casings outside the laundromat, and at least eight inside, the document said.

As Rosado-Ruiz left the building, Stollsteimer said, security footage showed him calmly walking toward his black Toyota Scion. When he happened upon his injured female coworker outside, he ran toward her and fired his gun at her again but missed, the district attorney said.

On Thursday, two of the surviving victims were listed in stable condition, while a third was in critical but stable condition, officials said. Stollsteimer said he did not yet know whether Rosado-Ruiz targeted his victims, including the brothers, who he said were just there trying to work.

This is an incident where he walked around the factory and started shooting at people, Stollsteimer said. Its mind-numbing to see it, knowing what hes doing.

Employees of the linen business had expressed concerns about Rosado-Ruiz in the past, Stollsteimer said, and the day before the shooting had met with company management about the mans behavior.

When officers arrived on the frenzied scene on West Fourth Street in Chesters West End about 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, they first found Leovanny Pena Pena lying dead outside the buildings entrance, police said. Inside, Police Commissioner Steven Gretzky said, officers found another victim and quickly applied a tourniquet to stem the flow of blood before using a laundry bin to wheel him outside for help. Continuing the search of the building, Gretzky said, police found Giguenson Pena Pena dead near the back entrance of the facility.

As Rosado-Ruiz drove away in his Scion, Gretzky said, neighbors gave police the description of the car, which helped officers to quickly arrest him near the intersection of Kane and Culhane Streets.

Rosado-Ruiz had legally purchased the handgun, a 9mm Remington R51 semi-automatic pistol, that he used to massacre people on Wednesday in 2018, Stollsteimer said, but did not have a license to carry it concealed, as he did at the linen business.

Several dozen employees were working at the family-owned business  which has supplied towels and linens to hotels, restaurants and other clients in the region since 1988  when gunshots ran out, sending panicked workers bolting for the door.

He was coming after everyone like crazy, I didnt know where to go, but he went straight after two guys, one shaken employee said outside the linen company in the aftermath of the shooting, as clusters of workers huddled behind crime scene tape, comforting each other.

By Thursday afternoon, there were few, if any, signs that a shooting had taken place at the business the day before.

The police tape that surrounded the building was gone, and no memorials had been set up at the scene. Only a light hum of washing machines emerged from the facility as employees returned to work.

Outside, Vincent Marsero, who owns the business, sat bleary-eyed in his truck in the parking lot, taking calls. He declined to discuss the shooting, the victims, or the alleged shooter.

After a sleepless night, Marsero said, he considered closing business for the day, but in deference to employees who he said were looking for a sense of normalcy, he decided to give workers the option to come in. Most did, he said.

Im the leader of this family, said Marsero. Ive got to support them.

Staff writer Chris Palmer contributed to this article.
Three people, including an 8-year-old girl on her way home from school, were shot in Kensington Thursday afternoon, after a man fired indiscriminately into the street following a car crash, police said.

Shots rang out just before 3 p.m. on the 300 block of East Allegheny Street after a car collided with a man riding a scooter, said Deputy Police Commissioner Pedro Rosario. After the crash, the rider of the scooter got up and started shooting at the car that hit him, sending bullets flying toward other drivers and pedestrians, Rosario said.

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A 47-year-old woman seated in her car just up the block was shot twice in the face and shoulder, and a 45-year-old man walking by was struck in the legs. Both were in stable condition at Temple University Hospital.

An 8-year-old girl in a separate car near the scene was also shot, struck once in the chest, said Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore.

She was rushed to St. Christophers Hospital for Children, and was in stable condition, he said.

 READ MORE: Twenty-four children were killed in shootings last year in Philadelphia. These are their stories.

The girl, Vanore said, had just been released from school nearby, and was on her way home with her father when shots flew through the car.

None of the victims appear to be associated with the black sedan that collided with the scooter, said Vanore. That driver fled the scene.

The shooter, dressed in a Gap hoodie and black sweatpants, also fled, Vanore said. Police are reviewing surveillance footage to try and identify him.

The child is the youngest person to be shot in Philadelphia so far this year, and is one of 50 people under the age of 18 to be struck by gunfire in 2024. The shooting comes as city leaders have taken a renewed focus on addressing crime and quality-of-life issues in Kensington, the epicenter of the citys opioids crisis. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel has said that reducing violence in the neighborhood is key to keeping children safe and reducing their exposure to trauma.

The gunfire also comes as shootings across Philadelphia are down sharply compared to previous years, including in Kensington. So far this year, the city has recorded almost half as many shooting victims as this time in 2023, according to police data. The number of homicides recorded this year are also at their lowest point since 2016.

Police are asking anyone with information about Thursdays shooting to call 215-686-8477.
Mitchell Elementary art teacher Mauve Rooney (center) takes part in a rally to discontinue the "3-5-7-9" policy, which penalizes them for taking earned sick days, outside the Philadelphia School District headquarters on Thursday, May 23, 2024. Read more

Philadelphia teachers rallied Thursday against a policy that penalizes them progressively for taking their contractually guaranteed sick days.

About two dozen educators from around the city walked in a slow circle, holding signs and chanting.

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3-5-7-9, let us use our sick time, they shouted.

With the districts 3-5-7-9 policy, teachers are given memos and have informal conferences with their principal after their third absence occurrence, whether its a single sick day or a consecutive stretch of days. After the fifth occurrence, they get a warning memo in their permanent file; after the seventh, the teacher gets an unsatisfactory incident memo in their file and a formal conference. When teachers reach nine occurrences, they get a second unsatisfactory incident report, a recommended suspension, and conferences with their principal and assistant superintendent.

 READ MORE: Sick days come with their contract. But Philly teachers get punished for taking them.

Siani Yoeun, a fourth-grade teacher at Mitchell Elementary, missed more work than ever this year because she suffered a kidney infection and a miscarriage. Shes up to six occurrences.

I dont want to be sick, and I dont deserve to be penalized because I was sick, said Yoeun, a five-year veteran. Its super frustrating.

Yoeuns colleague Maeve Rooney, Mitchells art teacher, had more occurrences than usual because her husband died.

I probably would have taken more time off, but I had to strategically take my time, said Rooney.

Charlie Hudgins, a math teacher at Lincoln High, finds the policy especially frustrating given the current teacher shortage in Philadelphia and across the country.

We dont need anything else that drives people from the profession, said Hudgins. Hes had four occurrences so far this year, and came to work ill because I just didnt want to get that fifth occurrence.

Absence-related sanctions are carried out unevenly across the district and even within schools, Hudgins said.

Its so arbitrary how its enforced, said Hudgins, who was one of a group of teachers who shredded occurrence memos and played games during the demonstration to underscore what they said was the stressful and unpredictable nature of the policy.

Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. has emphasized the importance of teacher attendance as a hallmark of his strategic plan to improve academic outcomes in the district, but said he does not want teachers to come to school when theyre ill. But hes also acknowledged problems with the 3-5-7-9 policy, and said changes are on the table.

The rally was not sponsored by the PFT, but organized by the Caucus of Working Educators, a progressive group within the union. But PFT president Jerry Jordan has been clear about a need for change to the policy.

If someone is sick, thats what the sick days are for  people should not be mistreated or abused by administration for taking that time, Jordan has said. There are some overzealous administrators in some buildings, and thats caused a number of people to be called in about attendance. But peoples health issues are their personal business, and if theyre not there, theyre not there.
Sam Ash, the music store chain with 44 locations across the country, is shutting its doors. Drummer Pauly Panda shops at the Philadelphia store, at Philadelphia Mills, which will be closing May 26. Read more

Video killed the radio star. Now, the internet is killing the brick-and-mortar music store.

Sunday will be the last day of business for the Sam Ash location at Philadelphia Mills. The 100-year-old family-owned musical instrument company is liquidating and shuttering its 40-plus stores nationwide.

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The once jam-packed store was eerily empty on Tuesday, with just a few dozen instruments on display, and some accessories like microphones, cables, and sheet music still on the shelves.

The store is one of 18 locations in the first wave of closures announced on March 1.

I was definitely taken by surprise, said store manager Elliott Weiss, who has worked at the store for 24 years, nearly as long as its been open. I thought I was going to be there forever.

But the writing has long been on the wall for Sam Ash, which opened the Philadelphia location in April 2000. The company, focused on its large, well-stocked storefronts, has struggled to compete with online upstarts like Sweetwater, Reverb, and Amazon. The chain, headquartered in Hicksville, Long Island, declared bankruptcy earlier this month  exactly a century after the company was founded by its namesake in New York City in 1924.

It is with a heavy heart that we announce that all Sam Ash Music store locations will begin store closing sales today, the family said in a message posted to Sam Ashs Facebook page. Thank you for allowing us to serve musicians like you for 100 years.

While the store has been offering heavy discounts on instruments and sound equipment, a spokesperson for the company said customers should be wary of fraudulent Sam Ash clearance sales that have been set up online.

Competition from the internet is not new for the retailer, but the situation became more dire during the pandemic, which eliminated foot traffic and made consumers more accustomed to shopping online. A Sam Ash employee said the chain was also struggling to get merchandise from its manufacturers at the time. One supplier was back-ordered until 2025.

I was under the impression the rent was too high, longtime customer Valerie Owens said of the roughly 20,000-square-foot store.

Weiss agreed: The overhead costs of renting a location like that are just astronomical.

But the storefront and deep warehouse are what drew music enthusiasts to Sam Ash over the years and set the chain apart from its online competitors.

The good thing about a physical store is that you can go and try the gear out, said Alex Martinez, another longtime customer.

Professional musicians also frequently need to buy gear on short notice.

This place would always have anything I would need at the last second, said Pauly Panda, a drummer whos been coming to Sam Ash for two decades. I could zip right on over here and they would have it.

There are a few surviving mom-and-pop shops in Philadelphia that can fill those last-minute needs, but theyve become few and far between in recent decades and generally dont have the expansive inventory that made Sam Ash a destination for musicians.

For that kind of selection, they will now need to leave the city and head to Guitar Center locations in Plymouth Meeting, Langhorne, or Cherry Hill.

Weiss doesnt harbor any ill will toward the Ash family. He thought it was impressive that the clan managed to compete with a massive conglomerate like Guitar Center for all these years.

The manager started working at Sam Ash as an 18-year-old greeter in September 2000, five months after the store opened. Weiss remembered the chain expanding rapidly at the time. A decade later, he was a senior department head and eager to be promoted to store manager. But Weiss had a problem; none of his superiors wanted to leave.

The Ash family, eager to keep him, rearranged personnel to give Weiss a sales manager position at the Cherry Hill store. He returned to Philadelphia Mills in 2013.

In the three months since the Philadelphia stores closure was announced, Weiss team has shrunk from 15 members to six. Those ranks used to include technicians, warehouse workers, and greeters.

Many of the stores former employees left for other jobs. A few of those who remain have new gigs lined up; Weiss will be working at Team Toyota of Langhorne. Some are taking time off to assess their options.

The Sam Ash store in King of Prussia is also closing on Sunday. The Cherry Hill location will remain open until July 12.

At Philadelphia Mills, customers were shopping while they still can.

The only reason why I came to this mall was because of Sam Ash, Martinez said. Its a shame to see a family business go.
Pottstown Hospital is one of Tower Health's three acute-care hospitals. It also owns St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in a joint venture with Drexel University. Read more

Tower Health reported a $27.4 million operating loss for the nine months that ended March 31, compared to a $122.8 million loss in the same period a year ago, the Berks County-based nonprofit health system told investors Thursday.

Throughout fiscal year 2024, we have met or exceeded our financial and growth goals, and we are confident we will achieve our projected return to profitability by the fiscal year end, Tower said in a statement.

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However, the reduction in losses did not help Towers cash reserves. That closely watched measure continued declining in the quarter, to the equivalent of 30 days of operating expenses on March 31 from 32 days at the end of the year.

That level of reserves is extraordinarily low for a health system with roughly $1.5 billion in long-term debt, including leases that are similar to debt. The low reserves were a key factor in what Standard & Poors described as Towers extremely weak financial profile when it downgraded Towers credit rating by one notch to CCC this week.

Here are the highlights from Towers financial report:

Tower Healths revenue

Towers revenue was $1.43 billion in the first nine months of fiscal 2024, up 2.6% from $1.39 billion last year, which still included six months of Chestnut Hill Hospitals results. Excluding Chestnut Hills revenue last year, Towers revenue gain was 7.8%. Temple University Health System and two partners bought Chestnut Hill for $28 million on Jan. 1, 2023.

Tower Healths operating profit

While Towers operating loss through March 31 was significantly lower than last year, it benefited this year from a cash infusion of $19.5 million from a federal drug settlement that was partially offset by a $9.6 million impairment charge. Those items were recorded in the quarter that ended Dec. 31.

Revenue at Phoenixville and Pottstown Hospitals also climbed 7.2% to $250.9 million from $234 million, Tower told investors. Operating income, however, remained stuck at about $40 million in both years.

Notable at Tower Health

Tower and Cigna agreed to a contract effective May 1 that returned Tower to an in-network provider for people with Cigna health insurance. Cigna and Tower had reached an impasse in November, which resulted in Tower being an out-of-network provider for Cigna members starting Jan. 1.
Members of the National Park Service march during the Capital Pride Parade in Washington in June 2023. Read more

National Park Service rangers are banned from attending Pride events in uniform, a policy reversal thats causing anguish among staffers and the LGBTQ community. The change comes just before the beginning of Pride Month in June.

According to internal memos shared with NPSs 20,000 employees in recent weeks, the agency aimed to remind staffers of a policy prohibiting them from marching in public events that could be construed as agency support for a particular issue, position, or political party. But a report by E&E news by Politico  which first obtained the memos  said the ban is now extended to Pride marches.

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The ban marks a shift regarding NPSs past enforcement of the policy and support for the LGBTQ community.

National Park Service commemorated LGBTQ history in the past

NPS has a long-standing history of celebrating LGBTQ history.

The park service has long permitted uniformed rangers to participate in Pride marches, including some of the largest in the country, such as in New York City and San Francisco, as noted by NBC. (Other uniformed government and law enforcement agency members, including firefighters and military members, can often be seen participating, too.)

In New Yorks West Village, NPS oversees the Stonewall National Monument, commemorating the site of the 1969 uprising that was a watershed moment for LGBTQ civil rights. The monuments first ranger is an out and proud military veteran previously celebrated for her uniformed participation in Pride events. The monuments Instagram page often spotlights figures and moments in LGBTQ history.

There have also been organized events for LGBTQ community members and allies at NPS parks throughout the country over the years.

Still, the new enforcement targets Pride events in a way employees say feels abrupt and unexpected, halting rangers from wearing their uniforms at Pride events and barring them from wearing non-NPS pins, ribbons, or buttons  such as Pride flags or pronoun markers  on their uniforms.

What did the NPS memo say?

In a Q&A document about the overall policy shared with NPS staff on Monday, the question Isnt a Pride event more related to identity than a political issue or cause? is asked. The document answers that question by saying: Parades and similar events are seen as a form of communication, both for the organizers and participants, so participation by uniformed employees would be viewed as communication on behalf of the NPS.

A follow-up email from Frank Lands, NPSs deputy director of operations, said an influx of requests about events and wearing buttons prompted the agency to review its policy. Lands said policies wouldnt be officially changing, but that current uniform code enforcement was inconsistent.

LGBTQ community responds to new NPS ban

The news of the ban has caused an uproar from members of the LGBTQ community and allies.

Pride is so much more than political. Its a celebration of who we are and who we love. Our existence is not political, said Queer Mountaineers, an LGBTQ group of climbers, hikers, skiers, and other outdoors enthusiasts. Pride belongs outside  especially in our National Parks and especially demonstrated by our National Park Service employees.

Advocacy group MoveOn also launched a petition asking NPS to reverse its decision.

Drag queen and environmentalist Pattie Gonia also weighed in.

National Park Service, this is NOT what allyship looks like, Gonia said on Instagram. I stand with the queer National Park Service employees.

She also applauded the queer park employees who have shared their experiences, many anonymously out of fear of retribution for speaking out. Gonia and her management did not respond to a request for comment as of publication time.

One unidentified NPS staffer who helped organize employee participation in Pride marches and spoke with NBC called the internal memos disappointing and said that LGBTQ staff deserve an apology for the grief and the turmoil and the distraction that this has been.

Another staffer who has participated in uniform at Pride marches in parks nationwide told NBC about being appalled at how the agency has handled the policy clarification.

I see Pride as a key service to the public, and I see stepping away from that as a political statement, the employee told NBC. I see denying this decades-long tradition as cowardly, and I see it as validating the far-right provocateurs who are trying to push into political discourse whether or not queer people can exist.

An uptick in anti-LGBTQ measures

NPSs enforcement comes amid a rise of restrictions on Pride events and LGBTQ expression, with attempts to ban the flying of Pride flags in government buildings, schools, and parks. Across the country, hostility against the community is climbing, with more than 500 anti-LGBTQ bills introduced so far this year, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.

In 2014, NPS rangers in California were prevented from marching in uniform at a Pride celebration. Staffers pushed back and the Department of Interior intervened, prompting a policy reversal.

Now, with about a week until Pride Month begins, employees are wondering what will happen next.

The primary question is, How is being queer an issue, position or political party-related thing? an LGBTQ staffer told NBC. And we have not gotten any clear answer. Its an identity, its not an ideology, and they are confusing the two greatly.
For decades, Giuseppina Leone earned her living serving up Northern Italian fare to diners in Montgomery County from Ristorante San Marco, the white-tablecloth dining spot complete with a piano bar that she ran with her husband in Ambler.

Now, shes hoping to avoid serving time in federal prison.

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The 61-year-old former restaurateur, known as Josephine to regular customers, pleaded guilty Thursday to federal fraud charges tied to nearly $1 million she obtained from government-backed coronavirus relief funds aimed at helping struggling restaurants stay afloat.

While others used the money to keep their businesses open and staff employed, Leone told a federal judge, Ristorante San Marco remained closed for almost all of the pandemic and that shed struck a deal to sell the business even before the coronavirus crippled the local restaurant industry.

Is everything youve said today the truth? U.S. District Judge Gerald A. McHugh asked Leone during a hearing Thursday in federal court in Philadelphia. Leone, seated quietly next to her lawyer, responded with a simple yes.

Leones guilty plea to three counts of wire fraud  each carrying a maximum prison term of as much as 20 years  came one week after federal prosecutors charged her with defrauding the federal Paycheck Protection loan program and a separate pot of federal funds specifically designed to bail out struggling restaurants.

Last year, the Inspector Generals Office for the U.S. Small Business Administration estimated that more than $64 billion issued through the PPP loan program went to recipients who were not eligible to receive it or spent it on unauthorized expenses.

Federal prosecutors in Philadelphia have charged dozens of defendants in recent years with bilking the program out of millions.

Leons attorney, Michael J. Engle, said in court that his client did not strike a plea deal with prosecutors but wanted to admit her guilt and face the consequences as quickly as possible anyway.

Mrs. Leone has accepted responsibility for her conduct in this matter, Engle said afterward. We will be preparing to address a variety of sentencing issues with the court at the appropriate time.

According to court filings, even before the spread of the coronavirus triggered shutdown orders for restaurants and businesses across the state, Leone and her husband had reached an agreement to sell Ristorante San Marco, its historic 1860s stucco building, and the 2.5-acre plot it sat on for $1.6 million.

Though that sale wasnt finalized until more than a year later, the restaurant announced in March 2020 that the pandemic would force its temporary closure and the suspension of takeout service.

We value our employees health and our community too much, hence the discussion to close temporarily until further notice, the Leones posted on the restaurants Facebook page at the time. We look forward to serving the community again real soon.

But Ristorante San Marco never reopened. And yet, three times during the next 14 months Leone applied to the government for funds to keep it running.

Between April 2020 and February 2021, she received $158,000 in PPP loans, aimed at ensuring business owners continued to pay their workers during the extended shutdown.

In May 2021, she sought nearly $700,000 from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund  a pot of money approved by Congress to specifically help restaurant owners cover pandemic-related losses.

Prosecutors say none of that money went toward paying the restaurants staff or to cover its operating expenses, as was required. Instead, Assistant U.S. Attorney Angella N. Middleton said in court filings, Leone transferred the funds to other bank, credit card and investment accounts in her name.

The restaurants sale was finalized for $1.3 million less than a month after the restaurant received its final injection of government cash. Its former home along Bethlehem Pike now houses Tresini, an upscale Italian eatery run by chef Brad Daniels.

Leone did not respond to requests for comment Thursday after her guilty plea. McHugh, the judge, scheduled her sentencing date for Sept. 5.
Do you want children to learn how to think?

Of course, you do. I bet you like rainbows and puppies, too. Every reasonable person says that future citizens in a democracy should develop the skill to reason on their own.

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But we dont really believe it. In our heart of hearts, we want kids to echo what we believe. And were wary of letting them think for themselves.

Consider what has happened in our public schools during the war in Gaza. Across the country, teachers have been penalized or silenced for making statements supporting Palestinians and denouncing Israel. If we truly embraced critical thinking, wed let students evaluate these ideas. Were afraid to do that, so we muzzle their teachers.

But some of the targeted teachers dont seem to want critical thinking, either. Instead, they want to impose their views on their students. Thats called indoctrination, and  like censorship  its anathema to democratic education.

Teachers should be able to speak their minds about Gaza, but if you think theyre free to do so, you simply havent been listening.

A Florida teacher was placed on leave for sending a letter to school officials asking them to publicly recognize the Palestinian community after they sent out a message condemning antisemitism.

A teacher in Richmond, Va., was removed from her classroom for telling students Israel was committing war crimes in Gaza and that the United States was complicit in genocide.

And in Maryland, three teachers were suspended for openly backing the Palestinian cause. One of them had used From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free on her email signature; another wore shirts bearing slogans like Free Palestine and Free Gaza.

Just as concerning, if less visible, has been the stifling of teachers who have expressed support for Israel. In Loudoun, Va., officials ordered a teacher to take down a blended Israeli-American flag because district employees are prohibited from making statements that further a political cause during school hours.

But in the lawsuit against their district, the suspended Maryland teachers noted that instructors had previously worn clothing supporting Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ rights. Nobody raised a fuss about that. Clearly, the teachers were being singled out for their views about Israel and Palestine.

I understand that some people interpret From the river to the sea as a plea to eliminate Israel, or even to eliminate Jews. Im Jewish, and I sometimes hear it the same way.

To the suspended Maryland teachers, however, it was an aspirational call for to freedom and dignity for the Palestinian people. If we valued critical thinking in our schools, we wouldnt prevent the teachers from expressing that perspective. Instead, wed encourage them to present it alongside other ones so students could decide what they think.

Here in Philadelphia, the school district finds itself facing accusations of antisemitism, too. A group of Jewish parents have filed a federal complaint about the climate in schools across the city and is calling for the creation of a safe place for Jewish and Muslim students and other remedies.

A new organization called Philly Educators for Palestine has rightly denounced the censorship of teachers and demanded a respectful, healthy dialogue around the history of Israel and Palestine. It has also called on the district to condemn the ongoing genocide waged on the Palestinian people.

Teachers should be able to speak their minds about Gaza.

I have argued that Israels behavior in Gaza might be morally objectionable for many reasons, but it shouldnt be called genocide. So if teachers in Philly Educators for Palestine truly wished to foster a respectful, healthy dialogue around the issue, theyd have to expose students to views like my own.

And theyd also have to allow the students to conclude that Im right and theyre wrong. A dialogue with a single correct outcome isnt respectful or healthy. Its propaganda.

To her credit, the Richmond teacher who charged Israel with war crimes urged her students to challenge her. If you think that everything Im saying is a lie, and Im giving you propaganda, come prove me wrong, she told them. Go for it. I have no problems with that.

But would she have a problem if her students decided that Israels response to the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas was justified and that the bombing of Gaza should continue until Hamas is destroyed?

Thats the big question and everything  I mean, everything  rests on the answer. Again, teachers must have the right to condemn Israel in whatever way they choose. But they have no right  none  to recruit students to their side.

You cant have a democracy if our educators are looking over their shoulders, wondering if the next thing they say will get them fired. But you also cant have a democracy if teachers are manipulating their students thoughts, all in the name of critical thinking.

Right now, more than ever before, we need adults of every mind to let our children make up their own minds  about Gaza, and everything else.
Assemblymembers Herb Conaway (left) and Carol Murphy, are running in a five-way Democratic primary to succeed U.S. Rep. Andy Kim. Read more

Five New Jersey Democrats and four Republicans are running in primaries to replace U.S. Rep. Andy Kim in the U.S. House.

On the Democratic side, two New Jersey General Assembly members could have an advantage over a handful of political outsiders in the open seat race. In the Republican race, one candidate leads in fundraising while another has support from the GOP establishment.

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The 3rd Congressional District includes almost all of Burlington County and parts of Mercer County, which lean Democratic, and parts of Republican-leaning Monmouth County. Democrats make up nearly 36% of voters in the district, and Republicans make up a little more than 26%. Unaffiliated voters outnumber both parties at nearly 37%, as of May.

Kim flipped the South Jersey district blue in a tight race in 2018, and it was redistricted in 2022 to include more Democratic areas. The three-term member of Congress has an easy path to the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, but he has not endorsed a primary candidate to succeed him in the district.

From running mates to opponents

Burlington County Democratic Assemblymembers Herb Conaway, the deputy speaker, and Carol Murphy, the majority whip, both 61, have the benefit of already representing district residents. Civil rights attorney Joe Cohn, business owner Sarah Schoengood, and teacher Brian Schkeeper are also running in the Democratic primary.

Conaway led the pack in fundraising as of March 31, raising nearly $360,000. Thats nearly three times as much as Cohn and Murphy  the next highest fund-raisers  who each raised more than $120,000, with Cohn raising slightly more than Murphy.

Additionally, Conaway has since garnered financial support from outside groups, 314 Action Fund, which works to elect scientists, and VoteVets, which supports veterans running for office, New Jersey Globe reported. Conaway served in the Air Force medical corps for four years.

Murphy has support from EMILYs List, a group which works to elect women who support abortion rights.

Throughout the race, Conaway has taken jabs at Murphy for relying on identity politics by campaigning on potentially being the first woman to represent South Jersey in Congress. Murphy confronted him about it at a debate hosted by the New Jersey Globe, On New Jersey, and Rider University, and he responded that a candidates race or gender should not be the principal driver of a campaign.

I am a person of color who represents a majority white district and I have governed in a way irrespective of sex or race or gender or any other distinction that one may have, Conaway said.

Murphy responded, My experience as a woman is relevant, and thinking otherwise is why we never have elected a woman into congress from South Jersey.

 READ MORE: Women for Murphy, but which one? N.J. Congressional candidate uses photo of governors supporters

But Conaway followed a similar script in his opening remarks at the same debate, saying the election would be historic for him.

If elected Ill be the first Black physician to serve in the Congress in the nation and Ill be the first African American male to represent South Jersey in the Congress, he said.

Conaway and Murphy were running mates to represent their shared Assembly district. They align on various issues like abortion rights, but they differed on universal health care at the debate.

Conaway said he does not support a single payer system, and he doesnt think Americans are ready for a government-run health care system. But he said he supports helping people access health care, like providing the option to buy-in to Medicare.

Murphy, on the other hand, said she supports protecting Medicare and moving toward universal health care. She said that health care is a human right.

Conaway has been in office since 1998, while Murphy has been in office since 2018.

Political outsiders in the Democratic race

Civil rights attorney Cohn, 44, of Burlington County, and Schoengood, 30, a business owner who lives in Monmouth County, have also been campaigning passionately for the nomination.

Cohn, of Lumberton, says in his campaign he is progressive where its productive, and moderate where it matters. He argues he can take on extremists while collaborating with those who disagree with him but also want to solve problems.

Cohn led government relations work nationally for The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, a Philly-based organization that advocates for free speech on campuses, also known as FIRE, for more than a decade. He said he advocated for free speech policies in almost every state and successfully worked across the political spectrum. He has also worked for the AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania and briefly for the ACLU.

Schoengood, of Manalapan, owns a seafood distribution business with her husband. She said she saw both how government can be used for good, and how broken it is, during her time interning for U.S. Rep. Jerry Nadler (D., N.Y.) and U.S. Rep. Bonnie Coleman Watson (D., N.J.).

She lags behind in fundraising, and in the eyes of New Jersey Globe editor David Wildstein, she did not have a clear enough path to victory to be included in the publications debate, along with Schkeeper.

But Schoengood, who has raised a little more than $20,000, argued that she doesnt need a lot of money to have a successful grassroots campaign, and bristled at being judged by her funds and social media followers for participation in the debate.

Schkeeper, an Ocean City Schools high school music teacher who lives in Medford in Burlington County, lags far behind his competitors in funding, only recently filing campaign contributions of a measly $3,554, most of which had not been spent as of late March.

Schkeeper, whose father died by suicide when he was a child, said in an interview with the Inquirers editorial board that voters will hear his connection to the issues that are directly related to their very livelihood and subsistence, which will push him to victory.

A larger shift in New Jersey politics muddled a particular advantage Conaway initially had in the race, potentially helping Murphy and the first-time candidates: the county line.

New Jerseys ballot design, known as the county line, has lined up county party-backed candidates together on the ballot, which has been viewed as giving an unfair leg-up to candidates favored by the establishment.

Due to a lawsuit filed by Kim, for which Schoengood was a co-complainant for, the old design wont appear on the Democratic primary ballots.

If you had asked me this before the county line decision, I would have unequivocally told you Herb Conaway was the clear favorite, said Micah Rasmussen, director of the Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics at Rider University.

I think that the end of the line gave a lot of new life, and a lot of new possibility to Carol Murphy that she might not have otherwise had, he added.

Do Republicans have a chance to flip the district?

The county line will still appear on the Republican primary ballot in most New Jersey counties.

The line wont be on the Burlington County ballot because the county clerk decided to adhere to the federal ruling in Kims case, but Rajesh Mohan, a cardiologist, will be on the line in Monmouth and Mercer Counties, and the Burlington County Republican Screening Committee endorsed him.

Mohan, 60, of Holmdel in Monmouth County, ran unsuccessfully as an independent against Republicans in a 2022 township committeeperson race before running as one.

He calls himself the Republican candidate for the district in his campaign videos, which could be misleading to people who dont know much about the race.

Mohan didnt respond to an interview request, but his campaign website shows he wants to reform the Affordable Care Act, coordinate with NATO allies, fight for Medicare and Social Security for seniors, strengthen border security, and streamline the asylum seeking process by holding it at U.S. consulates in neighboring and friendly countries, not at the border.

While the conservative doctor doesnt mention abortion on his website, he shared a post from a right-wing account on X attacking Conaway on abortion.

While Mohan has establishment support, his biggest competitor Shirley Maia-Cusick, 63, has raised almost double as much as him.

Maia-Cusick, an attorney who now lives in Medford in Burlington County, moved to the district from Bethlehem in Hunterdon County after suspending her Senate campaign.

She works as an immigration consultant, and advertises her work as all things immigration, including attending U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services interviews, ICE visits, detention center visits, and case management for immigration filings. But she said closing the border is a top priority for her.

Maia-Cusick, who is from Brazil, contended that its unfair that undocumented people entered the country since she immigrated legally.

During the course of my life Im living here, I never saw such a crisis, she said. Such a disgraceful, detestable situation. The border, everything, is kinda like, really out of order.

She also touted her support for the military, law enforcement, and Social Security.

Another candidate, Gregory Sobocinski, lags in fundraising, and did not respond to an interview request. Sobocinski unsuccessfully ran as an independent in 2022 and placed himself to the right of both his Republican and Democratic competitors.

Republican Michael Francis Faccone, another candidate in the race, has not submitted any campaign finance data, as of late March.

Despite the district now leaning blue, Carlos Cruz, a New Jersey Republican political consultant, said that top Democratic contenders Conaway and Murphy arent as strong of candidates as Kim was.

Am I saying its a definite flip? No, but I like our chances, Cruz said.
Philadelphia City Council's housing committee voted Wednesday to advance legislation that would make the city's Eviction Diversion Program permanent. Twelve of Councils 17 members introduced or co-sponsored the legislation, so it is sure to pass. Read more

Early in the pandemic, when lots of people lost work and were struggling financially, Philadelphia created what became a nationally recognized program to help renters avoid eviction.

Almost four years and several iterations later, landlords are required to participate in the Eviction Diversion Program, which can include going to mediation and negotiating with tenants, before they file for evictions in court in most cases. Participating landlords also may receive a few thousand dollars from the city for missed rent.

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The city has extended the program several times, including most recently in October 2022, when City Council voted to continue it through this June.

Now, the program that has drastically cut the number of evictions filed in Philadelphia is on its way to becoming permanent. On Wednesday, City Councils housing committee passed a bill on to the full Council that would remove mention of any ending date. Twelve of Councils 17 members  a veto-proof majority  introduced or cosponsored the legislation, so it is sure to become law.

 READ MORE: Philly lawmakers want to expand eviction diversion and rent relief as Mayor Parker proposes cuts

The bill the committee passed Wednesday continues the program as long as funding is available to run it. At the committee hearing, people representing both landlords and tenants emphasized that the continued availability of direct rental assistance is key to the success of the program. But Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers proposed budget cuts the citys contribution to the Targeted Financial Assistance program, which gives funds to qualifying landlords in the diversion program.

During a Council hearing in March, Rob Dubow, the citys finance director, said the city had committed to two years of funding. At the committee hearing Wednesday, Mark Dodds, interim deputy director of the citys Division of Housing and Community Development, said the agency supports the continuation of the Eviction Diversion Program, which he said is crucial to achieving the mayors housing goals. Dodds said continued funding will need to be part of the annual budget negotiations.

Council members who introduced legislation to make the Eviction Diversion Program permanent also are advocating for more rental assistance.

 READ MORE: Philadelphia is extending Eviction Diversion Program through middle of 2024

When coupled with rental assistance, the Eviction Diversion Program is one of our citys most effective anti-displacement programs ever, said Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, chair of the housing committee and one of the architects of the program. And it is a racial justice program, too. Because an overwhelming majority of tenants who face eviction are single Black mothers.

Tenants with eviction filings on their records have a harder time finding safe and affordable housing in the future, even if the evictions never actually happened or if they occurred years before when the tenants circumstances were different. Thats why the citys program requires landlords to participate before filing in court.

From March 15, 2020, to May 1, landlords have filed for more than 41,400 evictions in Philadelphia, according to the Eviction Lab at Princeton University. Thats less than half the number filed in the same time period before the pandemic. An average of 10,000 fewer evictions have been filed each year in Philadelphia, while other cities filings have gone back to pre-pandemic levels.

How the program works

Landlords are required to send tenants notice of their rights to diversion, and they have to participate in the program in reasonable good faith for at least 30 days.

Housing counselors share resources with tenants, and if volunteer mediators are available, they help landlords and tenants negotiate. Those negotiations can result in a tenant staying in a home under certain conditions or agreeing to leave a home without being formally evicted. When mediation is involved, roughly 70% of landlords and tenants in the program have reached agreements.

Landlords whose tenants qualify for rental assistance can receive a few thousand dollars for back rent and up to two months worth of additional rent.

 READ MORE: Tenant advocates and Pa. lawmakers want to seal eviction records, which can be barriers to future housing

If issues arent resolved within 30 days, landlords can file for evictions in court.

Philadelphia renter Mercedes Peterson testified at Wednesdays hearing that she lost her job last summer and got a new one that started in January. But soon after that, she said, she was in and out of the hospital because of an illness and lost that job. She fell behind on her rent, and her landlord sent her an eviction notice.

A housing counselor in the Eviction Diversion Program helped her negotiate a payment agreement with her landlord, and she is now current on her rent.

Through mediation, tenants like me have a chance to save our homes, instead of getting steamrolled through the eviction process, she said.

Wishes to tweak the program

Adam Weintraub-Barth, a senior attorney at the SeniorLAW Center, was one of many tenant advocates who expressed support for the program on Wednesday. He said it has saved thousands of tenants from the worst outcomes and will save thousands more. But, he said, clients have shared frustrations.

Landlords sometimes send representatives to mediation meetings who dont know the facts of cases or dont have the authority to settle cases, he said. Some participating tenants are told to negotiate directly with their landlords and then dont hear from them. Some reach and stick to an agreement, he said, but their landlords still file for eviction in court.

Steven Chintaman, vice president of government affairs at the Pennsylvania Apartment Association, which represents more than 38,000 units of rental housing and 49 management companies in Philadelphia, testified Wednesday that the association opposes making the Eviction Diversion Program permanent in its current form because of regulatory concerns and wants to work with Council and other stakeholders to address them.

He said the association recommends that the city create a program that applies only to tenants who are facing eviction because of nonpayment of rent and who qualify for rental assistance. The association also wants a seven-day prescreening period to determine whether tenants qualify for financial assistance, as well as a permanent and sustainable funding source for the Eviction Diversion Program.

Paul Cohen, general counsel for HAPCO Philadelphia, the citys largest association of rental property owners, agrees with the Pennsylvania Apartment Associations recommendations and said in an interview that the diversion programs 30-day delay in the eviction process hurts the small landlords the city relies on to provide affordable housing for residents.

He said eviction is a last resort for most landlords, who already have tried to work with tenants.

Theres some misconception out there that landlords want to evict tenants, he said. When a landlord is evicting a tenant, its because there is no other alternative available for the landlord to be able to collect the rent due or to evict a tenant that is causing a problem.

City Council could vote on making the Eviction Diversion Program permanent as soon as next Thursday.
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Last month, 43 of the firms employees demonstrated their strength in insurance by making it to the list of the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers for Australia insurance law category. Andrew Tulloch, recognised as Lawyer of the Year for aviation law, contributed to the firms reputation in dealing with complex insurance cases associated with the aviation industry.
The Kgari Clean Up is a fantastic initiative and a great immersion experience for our team, highlighting how much the 4X4 community value our pristine spaces. As sponsors of 4WD QLD, were honoured to work side-by-side with their members restoring the worlds largest sand island, said Tony Mitchell, CEO of Club 4X4.
The Florida expansion is only one of a series of team expansions that BenefitMall has completed in recent months. In February, it expanded its northern California team, followed by its Georgia and Florida teams in March. On March 11, BenefitMall announced the expansion of its southern California team, followed by a Houston expansion in April. It also announced the arrival of another executive in Dallas one day ago.
In her acceptance speech, DeGeorge said helping others has always been something she is passionate about. She also noted that at Vizance, she can help business owners protect their dreams and employees every day.
R&W insurers have paid over $1 billion to Aon clients in North America, with $550 million paid in the last three years. Claims filed over 12 months post-transaction closure resulted in more than $300 million in payments. In EMEA, insurers have paid over $120 million, with more than $20 million paid since the last report. Australia and New Zealand continue to see claims on one in five warranty and indemnity (W&I) policies placed since 2012.
The organization, affirming its dedication to supporting and advancing women in the reinsurance industry, is undertaking board changes to align with its updated vision, purpose, and values statement. In a Royal Gazette report, the move was described as underscoring WiRes commitment to promoting professional development, networking, and diversity among its members.
A Maine woman is appealing the dismissal of her lawsuit that accused school officials of encouraging her teens gender expression by providing a chest binder and using a new name and pronouns, without consulting her.

Amber Lavigne filed her notice of appeal to the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Monday, weeks after a federal judge in Maine ruled she failed to establish legal claims for which the school district could be held liable.

The lawsuit filed last year contended the mother had a right to control and direct the care, custody, education, upbringing and healthcare decisions of her children, and that Great Salt Bay Community School in Damariscotta violated her constitutional right by keeping the students gender expression from parents.

Lavigne, who has since begun home-schooling her teen, contends school officials urged her then-13-year-old not to tell parents about the chest binder, in addition to the new name and pronouns.

The lawsuit is the latest to weigh a minors right to privacy when confiding in a mental health professional against a parents right to supervise their childrens health and education.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics K-12
The family of the youngest person ever executed in the state of Pennsylvania  a Black 16-year-old sent to the electric chair in 1931 and exonerated by the governor in 2022  is suing the county that prosecuted him.

Alexander McClay Williams was convicted of murder in the October 1930 icepick stabbing of a white woman in her cottage on the grounds of his reform school.

Vida Robare, 34, had been stabbed 47 times. Her ex-husband, who also worked at the school, reported finding the body, and a photograph of an adults bloody handprint, taken at the scene, was examined by two fingerprint experts. But that wasnt mentioned at the trial, nor was the fact that she had been granted a divorce on the grounds of extreme cruelty.

The 5-foot-5, 125-pound Williams instead quickly became a suspect, even though his hands were smaller, there were no eyewitnesses and no evidence linked him to the crime. He was held for days of interrogation without his parents or a lawyer on hand, and ultimately signed three confessions, researchers found.

He was convicted by an all-white jury on January 7, 1931, and executed five months later, on June 8.

They murdered him, Susie Williams Carter, 94, of Chester, the last surviving sibling in the family of 13 children, said at a press conference Monday. They need to pay for killing my brother.

She was only about a year old at the time, and her parents, devastated, did not talk about it much. They had run a boarding house in Coatesville, but abandoned the business and left town as the scandal garnered national attention, she said.

This tragedy haunted the family, haunted the parents, haunted Susie, haunted (trial lawyer) William Ridley and his family, said Philadelphia lawyer Joseph Marrone, who filed the federal lawsuit on Friday against Delaware County and the estates of two detectives and a prosecutor who had pursued the case.

There was nothing to connect him to the murder. He was a convenient Black boy at the hands of these detectives and this prosecutor, Marrone said.

State Apology

Gov. Tom Wolf apologized on behalf of Pennsylvania when he exonerated Williams, and called his execution an egregious miscarriage of justice. District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said the teens constitutional rights had been violated, and a Delaware County judge vacated the conviction.

Williams had been sent to the Glen Mills School for Boys for starting a fire that burned down a barn, Carter said. The 193-year-old school closed in 2019 after a Philadelphia Inquirer investigation into decades-long allegations of child abuse.

Author and educator Samuel Lemon had known about the case since he was a child because Williams was defended at trial by his great-grandfather, William H. Ridley. The only Black lawyer in Delaware County at the time, Ridley had been paid $10 for the trial, with no support for investigators or experts. He faced off against a team of 15.

Lemon researched the case, tracking down the 300-page trial transcript, and found problems with the evidence, including documents that show Williams age incorrectly listed as 18, not 16, along with the husbands history of abuse.

As I unpeeled the layers, it became quite evident to me that Alexander McClay Williams was innocent, Lemon said. This was kind of a legal lynching.

Carter said the truth about her brother might never have been known if not for the work by Lemon and others.

My mother kept saying, Alex didnt do that. Theres no way he could have done that. She was right. But it affected us all, she said.

Osceola Perdue, a 57-year-old niece of Alexander Williams, said the story pained her when she learned of it, and still resonates today.

It cut deep because, if you think about it, its still going on to this day. You get pulled over by police, youre scared to death, even me as a woman, Perdue said. I still go back to my uncle, thinking how he felt  This keeps happening. It doesnt stop.

The Williams family, Marrone said, has the same right to pursue damages as more recent exonerees, nine of whom, all Black men, joined the family at the podium Monday. Exonerees Jimmy Dennis and Michael White of Philadelphia said there should be collective outrage over how innocent people are treated by police, prosecutors and others in the justice system, whether today or a century ago.

We are deeply disgusted by the behavior of the state, but it is emblematic of what we also have went through, so we came here today to stand up with the family and stand for what we see as our little brother, said Dennis, who last month was awarded $16 million by a jury after spending 25 years on death row, the largest exoneree verdict in Philadelphia history.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
A Virginia insurance and annuities agent was sentenced to one year and three months years in prison for mail fraud after swindling his employer and clients in multiple schemes.

According to court documents, from August 2017 through March 2020, Joseph OCarroll III, of North Chesterfield, scammed his employer for commissions and incentives by writing insurance policies for individuals without their consent or knowledge.

OCarroll pled guilty in January. He was sentenced on May 20 by U.S. District Judge David J. Novak.

According to prosecutors, OCarroll used the personal identifying information (PII) of clients, including their names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and bank account numbers, to apply for fraudulent life insurance policies in their names and forged their signatures on the applications. He created email addresses purportedly belonging to his clients, which he then listed on the insurance applications to use in communicating with the insurance companies.

For one client, OCarroll listed his own BB&T checking account from which the issuing insurance company was to automatically withdraw the premiums on applications for the policies. For other clients, OCarroll listed the clients bank accounts.

When the policies were issued, the insurers began withdrawing and attempting to withdraw premium payments from the listed bank accounts. While attempts to withdraw payments from OCarrolls bank account were unsuccessful, resulting in the cancellation of those policies, premiums were withdrawn from other client accounts, resulting in thousands of dollars being taken from them.

On at least one policy, OCarroll listed himself as the beneficiary.

During an Aug. 4, 2020, interview with the Virginia Bureau of Insurance, OCarroll admitted that the client was out of it at the time due to the death of the clients wife, and ultimately admitted that he wrote that policy and others to assist himself in winning a 2019 incentive trip to the Riviera Maya in Mexico from his employer.

In addition to applying for fraudulent life insurance policies in that clients name, OCarroll obtained more than $57,000 of the balance of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) account belonging to the client with the promise to reinvest the funds in another qualified retirement account. But he used the funds for his own personal expenses without the clients knowledge.

Source: U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Topics Agencies Virginia
Canada released its first-ever cybersecurity strategy for federal government departments and agencies on Wednesday, with the aim of addressing challenges posed by remote work, cloud computing, aging infrastructure and recruitment.

The strategy, announced by Treasury Board President Anita Anand, concluded that government departments and agencies generally lacked repeatable processes to identify and respond to new and emerging cyber threats, as of the fiscal year ending in 2023.

So far in 2024, the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Global Affairs Canada have all dealt with cyber incidents.

Its not only other governments in our country and private enterprises that must ensure they have strong protections against cyber threats and cyberattacks, but the very government of Canada itself must ensure that our systems are protected, Anand said in an interview with Bloomberg.

Therefore, individual citizens information is protected and therefore we can better ensure the delivery of services.

The strategy is set to cost C$11 million ($8 million) over five years.

During the pandemic, many government employees switched to remote work, using their home networks rather than solely government systems. Now as many of those workers remain hybrid, the strategy aims to make working from home more secure through expanding multifactor authentication and introducing always-on protections against malware and viruses.

The government is also using more mobile devices, cloud-based services and third-party software. Several of these systems are run at the departmental or agency level, which can lead to inconsistencies.

The speed of technological change means that security measures that were once effective may quickly become obsolete, underscoring the need for a proactive and adaptive approach to cybersecurity, the strategy says.

The government plans to create a security operations center that will monitor on-site, cloud and other network-connected devices across departments and agencies. Some will have specialized operation centers as well. Under the strategy, a purple team will also be created made up of teams who will simulate cyberattacks and assess defenses to identify gaps in government cyber security.

Aging infrastructure is also causing vulnerabilities. Weak information management practices are unacceptable and outdated IT tools that inadequately protect information are unacceptable in order to ensure that cybersecurity incidents and privacy breaches are minimized, Anand said.

Cyber threats are becoming a growing concern and can come from state or non-state actors regardless of geographic boundary. Some dates are also particularly higher risk for cyber incidents like Feb. 24, the day Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Anand said.

As well, the government is struggling to recruit cybersecurity professionals. The new strategy plans to create partnerships with colleges and universities, accelerate hiring through automation and train employees in other departments to work in the field.

The strategy sets a timeline for results of within two to five years. The government expects there will still be some cybersecurity incidents, but that it will be able to quickly respond to them and minimize the impacts.

Photograph: Anita Anand, president of Canadas Treasury Board. Photo credit: David Kawai/Bloomberg

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics Cyber InsurTech Tech Canada
This edition of International People Moves details appointments at Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) and the software developer Broker Insights.

BHSI Names Riley to Lead Casualty Business in Canada as DeSouza Retires

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) announced the promotion of Galan Riley to senior vice president, Casualty, in Canada. He was previously vice president, Casualty.

In his new role, Riley succeeds Darryl DeSouza, who is retiring after nearly 10 years with the company.

Riley will oversee all BHSI casualty lines in Canada, including energy, products, general casualty, commercial auto, construction, contractors professional and pollution liability. He has more than two decades of experience underwriting casualty risks in the Canadian marketplace.

Riley joined BHSI in 2014 as assistant vice president, Energy Casualty, and was promoted to vice president in 2019. He is based in Toronto and can be reached at Galan.Riley@bhspecialty.com.

Our casualty team and casualty business have seen tremendous growth over the past decade, and Galan and Darryl were pivotal in developing and executing our strategy for expansion, said Kathy Reid, head of Casualty, North America, at BHSI. Im excited to work closely with Galan as he leads this important business into the future and wish Darryl all the best in his retirement.

In Canada, BHSI provides general liability, lead umbrella and excess liability insurance for companies in a range of industries, with a focus on severity-exposed accounts. The company also specializes in construction (practice & project), energy, and manufacturing liability solutions.

***

Broker Insights Names Scott CEO Succeeding Edmond Who Becomes President

Broker Insights, the Dundee, Scotland-based software developer, announced changes to its leadership team as the company gears up to accelerate its UK growth and expansion in the United States.

Peter Scott will join as chief executive officer following six months of working in an advisory capacity to the company. Scott brings over 20 years of leadership experience in high-growth technology-based businesses and has significant international expertise. He has held senior interim roles in FTSE 100 and private equity companies and successfully led the joint venture between Dixons Carphone and Sprint in the US.

Founder and current CEO Fraser Edmond has been appointed president and will spearhead Broker Insights international expansion. He will split his time between the US and the UK and will continue to engage with all UK customers and stakeholders.

In addition to these appointments, Broker Insights will shortly announce the appointment of two commercial directors who will focus on specific customer groups.

We are delighted Peter is joining us at this exciting phase in our companys journey as we accelerate our growth and expansion. We have some amazing new products launching later this year that will reinforce our commitment to bringing data-led decision making to the insurance industry, commented Edmond.

We are creating a global leader in the commercial insurance market and bringing to life our companys mission to empower the commercial insurance industry through data-driven decisions,' he added.

Broker Insights performance and progress to date have been exceptional. The business is well-positioned to further grow in the UK and launch in the US, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with Fraser and the executive to take Broker Insights to the next level both here in the UK and also the US, Scott said.

Broker Insights was founded in the UK in 2018, and the company expanded into the US in 2023. Broker Insights Vision Decision Intelligence platform compiles and standardizes commercial insurance market data, enabling brokers and insurers to work together efficiently. The brokers analytics tools are used by brokers to explore, simulate and act on insights and make better placement decisions, and interact with insurers to boost efficiency and earnings. Vision Enterprise is licensed to larger national and global brokers and networks, which can then customize it for their own markets.

Topics Agencies Liability Canada Casualty
After failing in several U.S. states this year, global chemical manufacturer Bayer said Tuesday that it plans to amplify efforts to create a legal shield against a proliferation of lawsuits alleging it failed to warn that its popular weedkiller could cause cancer.

Bayer, which disputes the cancer claims, has been hit with about 170,000 lawsuits involving its Roundup weedkiller and has set aside $16 billion to settle cases. But the company contends the legal fight is not sustainable and is looking to state lawmakers for relief.

Bayer lobbied for legislation that could have blocked a central legal argument this year in Missouri, Iowa and Idaho  home, respectively, to its North America crop science division, a Roundup manufacturing facility and the mines from which its key ingredient is derived. Though bills passed at least one chamber in Iowa and Missouri, they ultimately failed in all three states.

But Bayer plans a renewed push during next years legislative sessions and may expand efforts elsewhere.

This is bigger than just those states, and its bigger than just Bayer, said Jess Christiansen, head of Bayers crop science and sustainability communications. This is really about the crop protection tools that farmers need to secure production.

Many U.S. farmers rely on Roundup, which was introduced 50 years ago as a more efficient way to control weeds and reduce tilling and soil erosion. For crops including corn, soybeans and cotton, its designed to work with genetically modified seeds that resist Roundups deadly effect.

The lawsuits allege Roundups key ingredient, glyphosate, causes a cancer called non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Though some studies associate glyphosate with cancer, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has said it is not likely to be carcinogenic to humans when used as directed.

The legislation backed by Bayer would protect pesticide companies from claims they failed to warn their products could cause cancer if their labels otherwise comply with EPA regulations.

Some lawmakers have raised concerns that if the lawsuits persist, Bayer could pull Roundup from the U.S. market, forcing famers to turn to alternatives from China.

Christiansen said Bayer has made no decisions about Roundups future but will eventually have to do something different if we cant get some consistency and some path forward around the litigation industry.

Bayers most recent quarterly report shows that it shed more than 1,500 employees, reducing its worldwide employment to about 98,000. Bayer submitted a notice to Iowa that 28 people would be laid off starting Wednesday at its facility in Muscatine.

The Iowa layoffs are not a direct result of the failure of the protective legislation, Christiansen said, but are part of a global restructuring amid multiple headwinds, which include litigation.

Bayer has bankrolled a new coalition of agriculture groups that has run TV, radio, newspaper and billboard ads backing protective legislation for pesticide producers. The campaign has especially targeted Missouri, where most of the roughly 57,000 still active legal claims are pending. Missouri was the headquarters of Roundups original manufacturer, Monsanto, which Bayer acquired in 2018.

Legal experts say protective legislation is unlikely to affect existing lawsuits. But it could limit future claims.

The annual deadline to pass legislation in Missouri expired last Friday. Though a Bayer-backed bill cleared the Republican-led House and a Senate committee, it never got debated by the full GOP-led Senate, which was mired in unrelated tensions.

If the legislation is revived next year, it could face resistance from senators concerned about limiting peoples constitutional right to a jury trial to resolve disputes.

I support farmers, but I also think they need due process, said Republican state Sen. Jill Carter, who voted against the legislation this year in the Senate agriculture committee.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Iowa Missouri
Heavy equipment company Caterpillar has agreed to pay $800,000 to resolve allegations of systemic hiring discrimination against Black applicants at an Illinois plant, the U.S. Labor Department said on Tuesday.

The money will cover back wages and interest to affected job applicants, and Caterpillar will offer jobs to 34 people the department deems are eligible to apply, the agency said in a statement.

The company also agreed to ensure its hiring policies and procedures are free from discrimination and provide training to all managers, supervisors, and other company officials who oversee hiring decisions, it said.

The case involved 60 Black people who applied for fabrication positions at the companys Decatur facility from March 30, 2018 to March 30, 2020.

Caterpillar has contracts to provide machinery to the U.S. Department of the Army and since 2018 has held more than $481 million in federal contracts, the department added.

(Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Richard Chang)

Topics Talent Illinois
U.S. planemaker Boeing faces a long road to address safety issues, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration said on Thursday as it prepares to receive the companys plan to address concerns.

In late February, FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker gave Boeing 90 days to develop a comprehensive plan to address systemic quality-control issues and barred it from expanding 737 MAX production.

Boeing has faced mounting questions after a door panel detached during a Jan. 5 flight on a new Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9, forcing pilots to make an emergency landing while passengers were exposed to a gaping hole 16,000 feet above the ground. An FAA audit also found serious issues.

Whitaker told ABC News the 90-day plan, due next week, is not the end of the process. Its the beginning and its going to be a long road to get Boeing back to where they need to be making safe airplanes.

He said the FAA has been working closely with Boeing over the last 90 days on what that plan is going to look like if its to bring the quality back where it needs to be at their factories.

Its to bring the safety system where it needs to be and bring the culture where it needs to be so that employees can speak up when they see something that is concerning.

The National Transportation Safety Board has said the plane was missing four key bolts, and Boeing has said it believes required documents detailing the doors during production were never created.

Whitaker held an all-day meeting with Calhoun in February and Whitaker will meet with Boeing officials on May 30, officials said.

Boeing faces an ongoing Justice Department investigation into the door plug blowout as well. Whitaker will brief U.S. lawmakers on the Boeing plan and agency oversight the following week, officials said.

Boeing Chief Financial Officer Brian West said Thursday at a conference that the company will make a final submission next week to the FAA, adding the 90-day plan is not a finish line and Boeing is continuing to work to make quality improvements.

Separately, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told Yahoo Finance Boeing is saying the right things, theyre taking encouraging steps, but we need to make sure that we see it on the shop floor, that we see it in terms of the quality of the product that rolls off the line.

Topics Aviation Aerospace
Though A.M. Best remains bullish on the delegated underwriting authority enterprises (DUAEs) market, it remains cautious of the risk managing general agents (MGAs) bring to insurers.

In its latest market segment report, the rating agency said MGAs provide a cost-effective way for (re)insurers to cover niche or emerging risks for a fraction of the investment required for carriers to establish in-house expertise. MGAs may bind coverage, underwrite and price select risks, settle claims and bind reinsurance on behalf of an insurance company.

In 2023, direct premiums written (DPW) generated by MGAs grew 14.9% year-over-year to $81.4 billion. This followed robust growth of 19.5% in 2022 and 17% in 2021. Specialty, hard-to-place risks are driving business, the report noted, and the market is expected to grow due to new entrants into the insurance market.

Insurers employing a hybrid model have some programs managed by MGAs, with in-house underwriters managing other programs, the report stated.

These hybrid relationships have helped grow premium market share generated through MGAs, with insurance carriers relying on MGA expertise for a large share of the distribution and underwriting for these programs, AM Best said.

In addition, the report noted that MGAs act as a distribution channel for surplus lines business, contributing to three consecutive years of double-digit premium growth.

Strong customer relationships, robust frameworks for managing account information and monitoring performance and specialized expertise are markers of successful DUAEs.

MGAs with specialized product or line of business knowledge have differentiated themselves in the market, providing carriers with risk management and governance infrastructure, in addition to underwriting and pricing acumen, the report added.

Tokio Marines Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company maintained its position as the insurer generating the highest direct premium written (DPW) among the top 20 US P/C insurers using MGAs in 2023, the report found.

Ten insurers (including Philadelphia Indemnity) wrote more than $1 billion in 2023 DPW through affiliated or unaffiliated MGAs, an increase from only seven such entities in 2022.

A.M. Best cautions insurers that some MGAs have abused their authoritywriting unprofitable business to increase commissionsand recommends carriers structure their relationships with DUAEs to include appropriate checks and balances.

Analysis of the U.S. P/C market for the years 2000 to 2022 revealed that the third leading cause of impairments was due to affiliated programs.

Prioritizing due diligence in selecting distribution partners, especially when delegating significant underwriting and pricing authority to DUAE partners is recommended.

Stakeholders will need to take precautions to ensure that management and underwriting incentives are aligned to prevent excessive risk-taking at the expense of policyholders, authors of the report added.

A strong enterprise risk management (ERM) program is recommended to protect against inherent risks provided through MGA affiliations.

Private equity (PE) funding for MGAs has grown in recent years and is another area of concern. PE investment allows insurers to capture market opportunities they might not otherwise capture, and because MGAs often require lower operating capital since they dont underwrite risk directly, it can lead to higher returns on investment for PE firms.

Since PE firms typically exit their investments within a few years to realize better returns, MGAs may feel pressure to prioritize short-term growth over long-term sustainability or strategic initiatives, the report added.

Topics Trends Pricing Trends AM Best Insurance Wholesale
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Two shipping companies agreed to pay $2 million in penalties after pleading guilty to federal charges related to the dumping of oil in the Atlantic Ocean by a ship bound for New Orleans last year.

The companies  Prive Overseas Marine LLC and the related Prive Shipping Denizcilik Ticaret  pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges including conspiracy and obstruction of justice related to false information entered into the oil record log book of the tanker PS Dream. Court records state that the companies are owned by the same holding company.

Court documents said crew members pumped oil-contaminated waste into federal waters while on the way to New Orleans from Malaysia in January 2023. Evidence included information from two whistleblowers who were aboard the ship, and video showing oil being pumped overboard.

The ships master is facing separate charges in a related case.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Energy Oil Gas
Fire departments across the state are reevaluating their emergency communication capabilities after the Maui wildfires, when the vulnerability of the islands cellular network  and a lack of advanced communication tools in fire vehicles  complicated efforts by first responders as they confronted one of the worst disasters in Hawaiis history.

On Oahu, a county-level interagency communications group now meets about once a week and often brings in private cell carriers, including AT&T, to discuss how the islands coverage would be affected in various disaster scenarios, Fire Chief Sheldon Hao said.

Related: Hawaii Study: Nearly 75% of Wildfire Survey Participants Have Respiratory Issues

On Kauai, emergency responders aim to fill a puka, or hole, in their communications coverage on the islands north shore by installing a new cell tower at Haena. They want to improve reception from Princeville to Kee Beach, where lifeguards sometimes have to roam the sand looking for a cell signal to call for help. The plan for that tower has been strongly opposed by nearby residents, and it has not been resolved.

On the Big Island, first responders have managed to get either most or all of the cell towers theyve sought in the past decade for better network coverage, but the ability to track all of the fire departments vehicles during an emergency remains limited, Todd said.

Maui fire officials, meanwhile, declined to be interviewed, but the recent after-action report prepared on its behalf by the Western Fire Chiefs Association recommended that the Maui Fire Department revisit whether it makes sense to join FirstNet, a cellular network for first responders that was rolled out in Hawaii in 2017 with assurances that it would improve response times and save lives.

Its becoming more and more important for first responders to have broadband coverage because of some of the software they have in their equipment that relies on that broadband backbone, said Bob Roper, the associations senior policy advisor and lead writer of that report.

A national cellular network reserved solely for first responders  basically a channel for them to use in an emergency thats separated from standard commercial phone users  was proposed in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

When Hawaii joined the FirstNet program in 2017, three of the states county fire departments initially decided that it didnt make sense to switch carriers to participate. But by the time the fires swept through Lahaina and upcountry communities on Aug. 8., Maui was the only county fire department in the state not on FirstNet.

Even if MFD was on FirstNet, it likely would not have helped since the fire destroyed fiber optic lines and caused all 21 cell towers serving Lahaina to fail, raising questions about the reliability of FirstNet on other islands.

What good is a first responder network that doesnt work where the first responders are? Hawaii County Fire Chief Kazuo Todd said this week, recalling his questions to FirstNet board members when they met with him and other local first responders on March 5 in Honolulu to discuss FirstNets capabilities after Lahaina.

That was my stance, Todd said. In West Maui, a single line of failure was the problem.

When FirstNet was being set up around the country, local first responders, including those in Hawaii, identified which areas would be critical to have that coverage available, according to Kenison Tejada, a senior public safety advisor for FirstNets authority who handles Hawaii.

Tejada made those comments during a recent briefing for Kauai County Council members on the proposed tower at Haena. Its unclear how many of those areas flagged now have coverage. Tejada declined to discuss where those Hawaii areas are located and referred any follow-up questions to AT&T.

Jeffrey Kobs, an AT&T spokesman, said that the plans Tejada referenced have detailed and proprietary network information and that the telecommunications company does not share them publicly.

At the March meeting in Honolulu, emergency responders and FirstNet officials discussed potentially adding Starlink satellite connections to each tower to provide at least some coverage if the lines go down, as well as fire-proofing those fiber-optic lines or burying them underground, Todd said. It remains to be seen what might come of the meeting. Officials with AT&T, which provides FirstNet nationally via a public-private partnership, did not respond Tuesday.

On Oahu, fire chief Hao said hes not aware of any vulnerable spots similar to Lahainas that could knock out coverage to large areas.

And Hao stressed that his department would still make effective use of radio even if it loses cell coverage because thats the method the Honolulu department has historically used.

I think wherever you go on any island, theres always gaps  but for the most part, in my experience, I havent had much blackouts with FirstNet, Hao said Monday. Its like anything else  it makes things more efficient. It helps, but if its not working, its not going to prevent us from communicating.

When Lahaina lost cellular coverage Aug. 8, its fire crews were still able to talk to one another as wildfires raged across the island using their preferred traditional method of communication: radio.

The radio coverage for Maui first responders didnt just remain intact that day, it was exceptional thanks to a repeater for the system located on Lanai, said Roper of the Western Fire Chiefs Association. Having FirstNet would still be a plus because it gives those crews another option to communicate in case one system fails, he added.

FirstNet can also provide special mobile devices to keep coverage afloat during and after an emergency. In the fires aftermath, FirstNet sent devices stored on Oahu and Kauai called Cells on Wheels, or COWS, to Maui to help restore the coverage there, according to Kauai Fire Capt. Micah Mokauahi.

FirstNet also sent 50 to 100 cell phones, protective gear and other equipment pretty much unasked to Maui to help with the immediate response, Big Island fire chief Todd said. He added that he appreciated the FirstNet board coming to Hawaii two months ago to discuss their service after Lahaina.

They were attentive, he said. They were concerned.

Its hard to say what will come out of that, he added.

A key reason why cellular and broadband access is important, experts and local responders say, is because of the advanced technology becoming available for emergency vehicles.

On Maui, most of MFDs vehicles still lack that new software, including so-called automatic vehicle locators, or AVLs. During the wildfires, that made it challenging to keep track of MFD vehicles on the day, according to a separate after-action report prepared for the state Attorney Generals Office.

AVL software can be especially useful in the chaotic, early moments of an emergency before local police and fire have set up their incident command post, Roper said. MFD had already started to upgrade the software in its engines prior to the Aug. 8 fires, but that effort remains underway, he said.

Honolulus fire engines and vehicles are equipped with AVL, Hao said, while Kauais and Hawaii Islands arent, according to those chiefs.

On the Big Island, fire engines are equipped with modems that use a cloud-based system called Cradlepoint to provide at least some location data. The fleet still needs more software technology upgrades, Todd said.

Its not exactly where I want it to be, he said. As for how to make those upgrades, Its not a simple or cheap process to figure that out.

The Kauai Fire Department recently upgraded to radios that have Global Positioning System locators, according to that islands fire chief, Michael Gibson. Those radios can operate using the islands cell towers if the signal is stronger, he said.

The Kauai department is also in the process of upgrading its software, according to Gibson, but it needs to boost coverage with the proposed tower at Haena to use that software more effectively.

Communication is more than just radio, he said. I feel like were decades behind and if we dont put in these features like this tower were going to always be behind.

This story was originally published by Honolulu Civil Beat and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Wildfire Hawaii
The establishment of a new EU agri-food chain observatory this summer is being welcomed by Irish farmers who are calling for a ban on below-cost purchasing of their produce.

The creation of this observatory that will look at production costs, margins and trading practices was announced in mid-March as one of the measures to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain.

It aims to bring increased transparency on prices, structure of costs, and distribution of margins and added-value in the supply chain.

It will gather up to 80 members across Europe, representing national authorities in charge of agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture or the food supply chain, as well as organisations representing stakeholders active in various stages of the chain - from farmers, input providers, food industry, traders, to transport, logistics, retail and consumers.

The observatory is expected to hold its first meeting in July, chaired by the directorate general of agriculture of the European Commission.

Need for additional legislative powers

At national level, Irish Farmers Association president Francie Gorman is urging Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue to "recognise the need for additional legislative powers" for the Agri-Food Regulator.

Our own minister can do more immediately with our national legislation to protect the livelihoods of farmers, Mr Gorman said.

Ireland is one of the only EU members states which did not add additional legislation to the EU Unfair Trading Practices Directive to help stamp out practices which are putting farmers out of business, such as below-cost buying from farmers and below-cost selling by retailers.

Big food buyers including large retailers operating in Ireland today have a dominant position over farmers in the food supply chain and the current legislation does not go far enough to level the playing pitch for farmers."

The establishment of An Rialalai Agraibhia - the Agri-Food Regulator - last December was a positive first step in addressing the imbalance of power in the food supply chain in Ireland, the IFA has said.

However, this office must be given "significant powers" to tackle the big food buyers and strengthen the position of farmers.

There is an ongoing review of the EU UTP legislation that is due in late 2025 and there is "an opportunity to make all food buyers pay at least the cost of production to farmers", Mr Gorman continued.

Covering the cost of production is clearly not enough. Farmers, like everyone else, have to live and they need to have a margin to have a sustainable family farm food production model in Ireland," he said.

"This is a step in the right direction, but it must be built on into the future."

EU directive

The EU directive on unfair trading practices entered into force in May 2019 and required member states to transpose the directive into national law which Ireland did in 2021.

The UTP directive bans 16 practices that can have harmful effects on the weakest actors in the chain, notably farmers and smaller suppliers.

Throughout the EU, enforcement of the directive is gaining traction and is expected contribute to an ever-growing degree of protection of farmers.
The Old Irish Goat, which has been part of the rural landscape for over 4,000 years, should be urgently added to the list of animals protected under the Wildlife Act.

Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD for Dublin South West, made the call in the Dail after claiming the species is critically endangered and being ruthlessly targeted by trophy hunters.

Minister of State Malcolm Noonan said there are large numbers of feral goats across Ireland, and newly escaped or released animals regularly join existing herds.

There does not appear to be justification for the extension of protected status to feral goats under the Wildlife Act at this time, he said.

Minister Noonan said the National Parks and Wildlife Service is undertaking a project to review and update wildlife legislation. This is an extensive review and is a multi-year project.

It is examining closely the effectiveness of our legislation in protecting wildlife and regulating activities that adversely impact on wildlife and biodiversity.

A public consultation process will commence soon, and all submissions in relation to the hunting of the species referred to will be carefully considered, he said.

Dubin Central Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan also recently claimed in a question to Agriculture, Food and Marine Minister Charlie McConalogue that the species, according to reports, is being hunted for sport and is on the verge of extinction.

The Minister replied that the Old Irish Goat Society is recognised by the Department and is approved to maintain a breeding programme in Ireland.

Over five years, the Department has supported a range of activities designed to recognise and conserve the breed.

Hunting of wild or feral goats is not within the remit of my Department, and I understand that the National Parks and Wildlife Service is responsible for this area, he said.

Minister McConalogue previously stated that the Old Irish Goat is celebrated in the countrys folklore, tradition, paintings, and literature.

By virtue of their hardiness, they provided a crucial component of Irelands past farming and rural life. Today, they provide an important resource in conservation grazing, heritage, and tourism, he said.

The Minister said he recently saw first-hand the benefit that these goats play on the Hill of Howth, Dublin, in controlling gorse and helping to reduce the risk of fires with their amazing skilled grazing techniques.

He was referring to 25 of these goats from Mulranny in Mayo, who made headlines when they were deployed to help reduce gorse fires on the hill.

Originating from the national herd, they arrived in the Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for the first phase of a three-year conservation project in partnership with Fingal County Council.

Wild goat numbers in Ireland reached a peak by the 19th century. Over 240,000 of them were exported to England in 1926 alone.

But their numbers fell dramatically during the Second World War as they were over-hunted for their meat, which was again exported to England.

The current feral goat herds are present in most counties except for areas in eastern Connaught, southern Ulster and parts of the Midlands.

Their current number in Ireland could be under 5,000 individuals. A large number is located on the Burren in Clare.

Minister of State Pippa Hackett said a decision to recognise the Old Irish Goat as a rare breed status demonstrated the valuable contribution of Irish farmers to biodiversity goals.

Its important we acknowledge the value of Animal Genetic Resources to supporting biodiversity mix across the country and the role and dedication of the Old Irish Goat Society in achieving this status," she said.

Other breeds currently recognised as being native and rare include Kerry, Dexter, Irish Maol, and Droimeann cattle, the Connemara Pony and the Irish Draught horse and Galway Sheep.

They hold Irelands history in their genes, having served the Celts, the Vikings and the Normans as livestock, and sustained the population over time.

Commenting on the discussions about the breed's protection, Sean Carolan from Old Irish Goat Society, commented: The Irish States inaction in the protection of this Neolithic animal in the wild, contravenes the United Nations Convention of Biological Diversity, UNESCOs World Heritage Convention, and UNESCOs Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme.

"All three specifically oblige the State to protect the Old Irish Goat. This is both an urgent State and public concern, and we would urge the custodians of our Heritage to take urgent action to secure the protection of the Old Irish Goat."
Members of the pig industry gathered in Co Cork this week to learn about the latest research on sustainable production.

The Teagasc pig development department held its pig open days this week, one in Teagasc's research centre in Fermoy and the other at Ballyhaise Agricultural College in Co Cavan.

Over 180 pig producers and industry stakeholders attended the event over the two days.

Attendees were guided through interactive stations providing an opportunity to see first-hand the results of the research programme undertaken by Teagasc, and to meet and discuss with the researchers, postgraduate students and technical staff who carry out the work.

Much of the research had an emphasis on management and nutritional strategies, as well as sustainable pig production.

Research facility

This event gave attendees an update on the Teagasc pig research facility, where it also detailed some of the new technologies employed in the unit.

The low-emissions building opened in August 2023 and is currently on its third intake of pigs. Teagasc said it has learned from each batch depending on variables like season and stocking rate and has made adjustments and refinements to the building along the way.

Teagasc adopted the LeeO system in the facility in late 2023, a herd management system that uses electronic transponders or EIDs on each animal to track and record all lifetime events of that animal. It is useful for commercial purposes but has also enhanced ability to capture research-based data, according to Teagasc.

It has also piloted the first group of pigs and sows co-mingling in lactation in March this year in the facility.

Six farrowing places were converted into a group house. Five sows and litters were introduced at day 12 of lactation from a conventional crated system. The sows are weaned at 29 days and the pigs then remain in situ until transfer to finishing accommodation six weeks later.

This is the start of more work to follow next year as part of the new Fit to Farrow project.

This year at the open day Teagasc also introduced the pig nutrition feed lab and the early results from wet chemistry analysis of feed ingredients from the Teagasc pig sector feedstuffs analysis programme.

Speaking at the event, open day organiser and Teagasc specialised advisor Amy Quinn said: We were delighted to welcome such big numbers to this years event.

"This type of engagement and feedback benefits both the attendees and our research staff and students, strengthens our programme, and ensures our future research continues to be both applicable and of high quality.
A couple of years ago, I ruptured my Achilles and every time I come down to Cork, I am reminded of it because I keep on forgetting how hilly it is, says Ronan Hession when we meet in a hotel lobby in Rebel territory.

The Dublin author is in the city for a reading at the Cork World Book Fest and the subject of hilly terrain is fitting considering the title of his third book, Ghost Mountain.

When we speak it is on the cusp of release but is already receiving rave reviews in the online sphere, a somewhat different scenario from the publication of his first book, Leonard and Hungry Paul.

Hessions debut novel has been an increasing rarity in the world of publishing, a book that built gradually from virtually zero hype to become a huge word-of-mouth hit, with a growing band of readers drawn into the everyday world of the remarkably unremarkable title characters.

Published in 2019 by Bluemoose Books, Leonard and Hungry Paul has sold almost 200,000 copies worldwide, a truly noteworthy achievement for a debut Irish author and a small independent press.

Hession says he was completely taken aback by its success.

I remember at the time, saying to people, I have a book coming out but its with a really small UK publisher and you probably won't hear about it.

I thought it would be weird not to say it to people but I really thought it would be the kind of thing where I would say I once had a book published.

There was no real marketing campaign as such, it started selling at a steady rate and then just never stopped, it just keeps going.

That kind of fits the book as well. One by one, people are just hearing about it.

Bluemoose Books, which is based in the English town of Hebden Bridge, went on to publish Hessions second book Panenka, and now, Ghost Mountain.

It is a family affair, run by Kevin Duffy and his wife Hetha, while her mother Lin Webb is Hessions editor. The publishers ethos appealed to Hession immediately.

Kevin is brilliant to work with  we talk almost every day, and were very much a team. They have always just said, we back the writer rather than the book  and we let that writer grow.

In Hessions latest book, the titular mountain appears from nowhere, as short, rhythmic chapters explore its effects on the books quirky cast of characters, including Ocho, whose wife Ruth is inexplicably drawn toward the mysterious elevation.

Ghost Mountain has a more surreal tone than Hessions previous books, some of which is explained by its beguiling origins, including some inspiration sourced from his day job as a senior civil servant in the Department of Social Protection.

In work, I have often used the analogy of a mountain  that every time you walk around a mountain, you never fully see it. Each time, youre a bit different, its a bit different.

And then during the pandemic, I was asked to write a short story  I thought I would try and write a 2,000 word novel, that was like 15-20 chapters and by compressing the story that way, I came across a style I really liked.

So I had that image of the mountain and then I had this character Ocho, who just seemed to come out of nowhere, in that space.

The final piece of the puzzle came during the pandemic, when Hession was working from home.

I couldn't print anything, and my eyes would get tired looking at the screen. So I used the read aloud function on Microsoft Word which is kind of like karaoke, it bounces from word to word, and it reads out the text.

Then I started using it in my creative writing, for editing and then for writing. My computer used an American voice called Junior, which had this kind of slight nasal vulnerability to it.

So I wrote the whole book with his voice, the whole rhythm, the reiteration, the strangeness of it all.

Different writing process

The process of writing was also somewhat different for Hession.

The previous books I wrote in blitzes of like three or four months. This one, I only let myself write twice a week over about 15 months.

I call it heron writing  theres an estuary near us where we get a lot of herons, and they just wait and wait, and wait and wait, and then dip with real accuracy.

They actually do two movements because they correct for the refraction of the light and the water. So that kind of writing is sitting down and not just bashing it out straightaway.

It's waiting until almost everything subsides. And before you try and writerfy it, before your fanciness kicks in, you get in and you get it down and you stop writing.

Hession has been working in the civil service for almost 27 years, and its a job, which contrary to some assumptions, he finds is the perfect complement to his creative pursuits, which has also included music  he has recorded several albums under the performing name Mumblin Deaf Ro.

I suppose people have this image of you sitting in a big quiet office and you're just stamping things and it's a pointless sort of bureaucracy. That's never been my experience.

A lot of the problems youre dealing with in government departments are intractable and complex. Ive done a lot of different things. Ive worked in local government, national parks, with the Troika, and now with marginalised groups in social protection.

Ive always loved it and also, it's one of the few jobs where the written word is still really important. A lot of my day is spent writing or editing.

Hessions creative impulse also extends to the exterior of his books, and in the case of Ghost Mountain, there is no doubt that the cover image, a vibrant and stunning abstract painting by Cork artist Tom Climent, makes for a great aesthetic choice.

Im always very involved in the covers; and I had been looking at mountain images for about a year. Its very hard to find a good image because mountains are so symbolic.

Then I read Cristin Leachs book, 'Negative Space', and she writes very well about Tom's paintings there. So I looked up his paintings and I just started seeing a few that I thought, yeah, this is it.

I contacted Tom, who sent me a very nice email back, saying he was very interested in the idea of different art forms collaborating. And then when we got it, I wanted to make sure it didn't have text all over it.

A lot of covers these days, because they are read on phones, they have text with a background. I prefer the image to be dominant.

So we tried to be as sensitive as possible to his painting and the reaction has just been sensational.

I love that the painting is such a big part of the story of the book and hopefully the reaction to it or whatever way it finds its way in the world will do justice to Toms painting.

And with that, its time to stroll off towards Cork City Library, thankfully a flat and even route for this unassuming author who continues to scale new heights, on the page at least.
Irelands Eurovision finalist Bambie Thug will do a four-night tour of the country later this year as part of their debut European tour, they have announced.

Bambie, who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, placed sixth in this years Eurovision Song Contest at Malmo Arena in Sweden, and will open their Crown The Witch Tour in Limelight in Belfast on October 28.

On Halloween night, they will perform at The Academy in Dublin, before moving on to the Roisin Dubh in Galway on November 2. Bambie will take to the stage in Cork City Hall on Thursday, November 7 for the final night of the tour.

The Irish leg comes at the end of a general 28-date European tour for Bambie, who will perform in countries including Britain, Netherlands, Germany, France and Spain. Tickets go on sale Tuesday at 10am.

"So excited to bring Ouija Pop to so many countries on my first ever headline run with Crown The Witch Tour. Expect magic, music and more. Look forward to welcoming you into the coven," they said.

This years Eurovision, where Nemo of Switzerland took home the trophy with the song The Code, was plagued by a number of controversies. The competition saw disqualifications, pro-Palestinian protests and complaints by Bambie Thug.

Bambie, who has been outspoken about their pro-Palestine views, accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break and said they have been waiting to hear back from the EBU about what action would be taken.

The competition was also mired in controversy surrounding the participation of Israels Eden Golan, and a large group of demonstrators were outside Malmo Arena as the acts performed.

Several protesters were detained and taken away by police, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

There was also controversy after the disqualification of the Netherlandss contestant Joost Klein, who was stopped from taking part over an incident where he was alleged to have made verbal threats to a female production worker.

This move was strongly criticised by the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS, who called the penalty very heavy and disproportionate.
EMMA LYNCH is a 41-year-old self-employed career and life coach from Ennis who finds working from home distracting.

My two kids are here, she says. So is the washing that needs to be done and the bins that have to go out. Sometimes I really struggle to keep my thoughts on work.

Deirdre Martin, 42, from Paulstown in Kilkenny, knows the feeling: As a solo entrepreneur who offers brand and marketing consultation services, I have so much to do that it can be difficult to focus. My teenage kids distract me. Email notifications and social media alerts do too. There have been times when Ive been so overwhelmed by all these demands on my attention that Ive had pains in my chest with the stress of it all.

We live in a world where its become the norm to be distracted. So says Dr Gloria Mark, a cognitive psychologist, professor of informatics at the University of California and author of Attention Span: Finding Focus for a Fulfilling Life.

We carry our smartphones with us at all times, which means that at any moment, we can check our messages and look up information, she says. On our computers at work, we can switch windows to get the news or go on social media. The speed at which we can satisfy our whims reinforces distraction as a form of habitual behaviour.

Deirdre Martin taking a break in her busy day.

Dr Eoin Whelan, professor of business analytics and society at the University of Galway, carries out research into the psychology that underlies our interactions with digital media. He agrees that were living in a time of peak distraction: With more leisure time than ever, we seek stimulation more. Added to that are the technology companies for whom distraction is their business model.

The result is that its now common for people to check their phones or look at their emails in the middle of conversations, when they are watching TV or while they are doing a task at work.

Mark has carried out studies that monitor office workers time spent on one activity before switching to another for two decades.

In 2004, they spent two and a half minutes, says Mark. That has since fallen to 47 seconds.

Mark says this reduction in employees' capacity to concentrate has an obvious impact on their productivity levels and contributes to higher stress levels.

Staying on task is also good for your heart. In a 2016 study, office workers wore heart monitors while software sensors detected how often they switched windows on their computers. The screen switchers had a consistently high heart rate, while those who stayed on task had healthier, more variable rates.

Dr Eoin Whelan says we are not designed to multi-task.

Humans are designed to mono-task

Those who think they can multi-task their way through the working day are mistaken, says Whelan: Theres no such thing. Humans are designed to mono-task. Sure, there are tasks that come with a low cognitive load that can be combined without a noticeable loss in performance. Things like walking the dog and listening to music. But you cant have a conversation and email at the same time and if you try, what youre actually doing is switching back and forth between those two tasks. Thats exhausting and results in a drop in performance.

Mark gives three reasons for this performance drop. One is that we make more mistakes when we try to do several things at once.

Two is the so-called switch cost. Every time we switch attention, it takes a few moments to reorient our focus onto the new task, making multitasking an ineffective use of time in the long run, she says.

Three is the stress caused by multitasking, as our blood pressure has been shown to increase when we try to multitask rather than complete tasks sequentially.

So how can we combat the many distractions we encounter on a daily basis?

It may take practice, says Whelan. Start by blocking off 15 minutes at a time, taking a break for a couple of minutes and then doing another 15 minutes of focused work. Building up slowly, you should eventually be able to concentrate for an hour or two at a time.

He also recommends making it difficult to use your phone: Put it in another room or put an elastic band around it. This will force you to stop and think about whether or not you really need to use it.

Mark also endorses a more mindful approach to technology: Our behaviours are often automatic. We grab our phones or open social media without really thinking about it. But if we ask ourselves why we are doing it, we can become intentional in changing our behaviours. We can tell ourselves that well work for another 30 minutes and then reward ourselves with a few minutes of scrolling. No matter who we are, our cognitive resources are limited. We need breaks to replenish them.

Our powers of concentration can vary throughout the day and its useful to be aware of this, says Mark: If you know when youre best able to focus, you can plan to do your most demanding tasks at that time of day.

Setting goals can keep distraction at bay too. Attention is goal-oriented, says Mark. Keeping our goals in mind helps us to keep on track. Try writing your goals down and keeping them in your field of view.

Emma Lynch uses the Pomodoro Technique for effective time management.

Strategies to focus

Martin and Lynch have both developed strategies of to improve their focus.

I read a book called Buy Back Your Time [by Dan Martell] which taught me to categorise tasks into those I can eliminate, automate and delegate, says Martin. That inspired me to take on an assistant who now handles my emails so that I dont get distracted by them anymore.

She also changed her approach to social media: I need social media to generate work but it destroys my focus. What I do now is block some time during the week to create content and then hand it over to my assistant to post it for me. I check it in the evenings to respond to comments but other than that, Im logged off.

She means this literally. She has downloaded an app for her phone which blocks social media from nine to five.

If I didnt have that, I could waste hours doomscrolling, she says.

Lynch uses a website called www.focusmate.com to practice a focusing technique called body doubling: It sounds silly but it works for me. I log onto the website and input how long I want to focus. The website then matches me up with another person for that length of time.

I tell them what Im going to do. They tell me what they are going to do. We turn each other on mute. We can still see each other at the bottom of our screens and having each other there helps us to get to work.

Another technique she uses is breaking tasks down into smaller steps. Sometimes, I put tasks off because they seem too big. Smaller steps are less off-putting.

She also swears by the Pomodoro technique: This is where you focus on a task for 25 minutes and then take a break for five. You do that three times and then take a longer 15-minute break.

Youll be surprised how much you get done and Ive found that you can even put on a load of washing or fill the dishwasher in that five-minute break.
Knife attack in China kills 8, injures 1

Xinhua) 14:20, May 24, 2024

WUHAN, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Eight people were killed and another injured in a knife attack on Thursday in Hubei Province, central China, authorities said Friday.

The attacker, a 53-year-old man surnamed Lu, reportedly suffers from mental illness. He fatally stabbed eight people and injured another on Thursday morning in Xiaowu Township in the city of Xiaogan.

The injured person did not sustain life-threatening wounds.

Police have detained the suspect, and an investigation is under way.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
MILLENNIALS do things differently. Those born between 1981 and 1996 exercise more, eat better and smoke less than previous generations. They may also be parenting differently. Look around and youll see that todays 20- and 30-somethings are just as likely to be seen walking doted-upon doggies as pushing babies in buggies.

Take 38-year-old British actress Jamella Jamil. She recently said that her two dogs were all the responsibility she wanted in life.

Emily in Paris star Lily Collins (35) and Game of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke (37) are other examples of celebrity millennials who are child-free owners of pampered pooches.

Baby Boomers and Gen Xers typically started their families in their 20s. In 1975, the average age of a first-time mother was 24.8. In 2000, it was 27.4. But in 2024, its 31.5.

Parenthood isnt the only traditional marker of adulthood thats been pushed further into the future for millennials. A recent report issued by the Parliamentary Budget Office revealed that the average house price nationwide had doubled from 153,00 in 2013 to 305,000 in 2022. Wage increases, however, have not kept pace. The median salary of a single person increased by only 26% from 33,000 to 41,800 over the same period. Unsurprisingly, millennials chances of becoming homeowners fell proportionately, with the number of homeowners aged between 25 and 34 dropping from 60% to 27% over that decade.

Precarious housing could help explain why millennials are reluctant to have children. The sky-high cost of childcare may be another factor. According to a 2021 report by Pobal, a State body that works in early childhood care and education, the average cost of full-time childcare in Ireland was over 9,000 a year. Compare that with the 1,600 that Dogs Trust Ireland estimates it costs to care for a dog.

An analysis study published in the Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research also shows that millennials dont have the same priorities as the generations that came before them. They value self-development, friendships and experiences such as travelling and might not want the responsibility of parenthood to affect their freedom to enjoy these activities.

A 2021 survey of millennial American women who had chosen not to have children backs up this argument. Some 38% said children required too much time and energy, with 32% preferring to prioritise their career and education instead and another 40% opting to spend more time on hobbies.

Pets are cheaper, less time-consuming and less stressful. Perhaps its no wonder that 69% of the women interviewed in the US study had adopted a dog or cat instead of having a baby.

Becoming a pet owner brings some unexpected benefits. A 2015 Harvard Medical School report showed that there are proven advantages to having a dog. For example, dog owners are less prone to loneliness, depression and anxiety. They are also more likely to have lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels and a lower risk of heart disease than non-dog owners.

Lisa and Lee Brassil with their dog Bowie at home in Naas. Photograph Moya Nolan

Puppy love

There are many reasons why millennials might embark on puppy parenthood instead of having a baby. The Irish Examiner asked four of them to explain why it made sense to them.

Lisa and Lee Brassil are both 30. Shes a technical recruiter, and hes a software engineer. They got married last year and live in Naas with their four-year-old dog, Bowie, a cross between a labrador and a doberman.

Hes their one and only baby. Lee and I are both eldest children and spent a lot of time babysitting our siblings when we were younger, which is one of the reasons why weve decided not to have children ourselves, says Lisa.

Finances are another factor, with the couple both expressing shock at how much their friends have to spend on their children. Dogs are nothing like as expensive, says Lisa.

The environmental impact of children is another concern. There are so many people in the world already, says Lisa. We dont need more.

Lee adds that a dog suits their lifestyle better. We can leave him alone in the house when we go out and hell just sleep, he says. A kid could never be left alone like that.

They adopted rescue dog Bowie in April 2021. He changed our lives, says Lee. Because he needs consistency and has to be let out in the morning, go for walks, be fed at certain times and played with, he has brought much more structure and routine to the way we live.

Lisa and Lee Brassil with their dog Bowie at home in Naas. Photograph Moya Nolan

Because they both work on a hybrid basis, one of them is usually at home with Bowie. On the rare occasions they are not, they book him into a dog daycare centre nearby.

They took as much care choosing this centre as any first-time parent would. Weve heard horror stories about how dogs are treated in some of them, says Lee. We didnt want that for Bowie.

They have been pleasantly surprised by certain aspects of dog ownership, such as the impact on their exercise levels. Were definitely leaving the house and moving more, says Lisa.

Theres also the depth of the bond they have with him. Whenever you come back to the house, he acts as if seeing you is the best thing ever, says Lisa. Experiencing the full force of that unconditional love is so special.

Like all proud parents, they enjoy spoiling their baby. They buy him toys and treats. We made him a cake for his birthday and made him dog-friendly pancakes on Pancake Tuesday, says Lee.

We also bought him a coat to wear when its cold outside and a selection of little bowties and scarves that he likes to show off, adds Lisa.

Their relationship with Bowie elicits mixed reactions from family and friends. Our best friends have a collie who they love just as much as we love Bowie, says Lisa. But some of our family think were spoiling him. They also think that were bound to want kids eventually. We know that well only ever have dogs.

Carolina G. Alvarez-Mon who lives in Skerries with her partner Aidan Kehoe, not pictured, and their two dogs Rolo and Kimi. Photograph Moya Nolan

Mental health boost

Carolina Alvarez-Mon is 29 and from Spain. She currently lives in Skerries with her 32-year-old partner Aidan Kehoe, who is an accountant, and their two dogs.

Her love for dogs stems from childhood. When I was a teenager, we adopted a puppy and from the very beginning, he felt like a little brother to me, she says.

That dog died in 2021, by which time Alvarez-Mon had moved to Ireland to work for Google. His death inspired her to get a dog of her own.

That dog was Rollo, a springer spaniel, who was recently joined by Kimi, a lurcher. Both are rescue dogs.

Carolina G. Alvarez-Mon who lives in Skerries with her partner Aidan Kehoe, not pictured, and their two dogs Rolo and Kimi. Photograph Moya Nolan

Alvarez-Mon is aware that at her age, previous generations of women would have been busy raising a family of children, not dogs. But I feel too young for kids, she says. Im still growing my career and discovering myself more. I love studying and have lots of hobbies. If I had children, Id have to put all my time and energy into them.

Unlike children who would make demands on her, Alvarez-Mon believes dogs only contribute positively to her life. They are so good for my mental health, she says. Im never lonely when Im with them. They are so loving and loyal and never want anything in return.

Even though her dogs arent as demanding as children, she enjoys treating them like babies. She gives them freshly made food to eat, buys them toys to play with, makes personalised bandanas and woollen winter accessories to wear and even cuddles up with them in bed.

Not everyone understands her attachment to her dogs. My family think its weird, she says. They dont understand that my dogs are my children. My brother does though. He asks me to send him pictures of his nephews. My friends understand too. They know that my dogs are the best thing thats happened to me and that I want to share my life with them.

Bhavya Badola and her fiance Adi. with their 3 month old puppy Una, in St. Anne's park. Photograph Moya Nolan

Nurture and joy

Bhavya Badola is 29 and lives in Dublin. The marketing professional is engaged to Adi Sharma, a 36-year-old data centre engineer, and they recently adopted Una, a rescue puppy, a mix of pitbull and shar pei.

So far, she has been a joy, says Badola, who moved to Ireland from India in 2017.

Even though they are in a committed relationship and live in a house big enough for children, adopting a pet seemed far more appealing than the idea of starting a family.

In India, traditionally, women would have had at least one or two kids by the time they were my age, but I think its scary, says Badola. When we were on holidays in Rome last year and Santorini recently, I saw parents struggling with buggies and kids and thought to myself that I didnt know if I could ever do that.

The level of commitment required by dogs is just right for Badola at this stage of her life. Dogs are dependent on you in lots of ways but whereas kids fight with you and have issues of their own that you have to deal with, dogs have love and cuddles, she says. They only make life happier.

Bhavya Badola and her fiance Adi. with their 3 month old puppy Una, in St. Anne's park. Photograph Moya Nolan

This is not to deny the challenges involved in dealing with a puppy. Una is my first puppy and Im surprised by how hard it is, she says. If you dont watch her like a hawk, shell have chewed through cables, eaten all the toilet paper, or made holes in your clothes.

However, having Una adds to Badolas life in many other ways. I have to take her for a walk even if its raining, she says. Id skip the walk if it was raining if it wasnt for her.

She also enjoys nurturing Una. Getting her up in the mornings, giving her meals, walking and playing with her  I love all that, she says. I like reading up on the best things to give her to eat and the best toys for her to play with. She loves rattle toys and toys you can tug on and weve also got a lovely selection of jumpers and jackets for her to wear.

Badolas family is supportive of her decision to adopt Una.

They know how much I love her and how much joy she has brought to my life, she says. That makes them happy.

Health benefits

A growing body of research shows that dog ownership is good for our physical and mental health.

It may help with reducing allergy levels. A 2015 study published in JAMA Paediatrics found that exposure to dogs from a young age was linked to a lower risk of childhood asthma.

It could also be good for our heart. As far back as 1992, an Australian study reported that pet owners had lower blood pressure levels than non-pet owners despite having similar body mass index and socioeconomic profiles.

It usually results in us exercising more. A 2013 study from the Journal of Physical Activity and Health revealed that dog owners were more active than people who didnt own dogs because they got their steps in during daily walks and physically played with their dogs regularly. Having a dog meant they took an average of 2,760 more steps per day, amounting to an additional 23 minutes of moderate exercise.

It can make us feel better. Researchers at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine reported that simply stroking a pet lowers the stress hormone cortisol, while the social interaction between people and their dogs increases levels of the feel-good hormone oxytocin. This feelg-good response could explain why a 2022 study into the impact of service dogs on military veterans and first aid responders with post-traumatic stress disorder found that being paired with a dog led to a reduction in symptoms in 84% and allowed 40% to decrease their medications.

A Miami University study published in 2011 found that pet owners had better self-esteem than non-pet owners.

A 2018 analysis of the existing data concluded that having a pet can help mitigate mental health problems, particularly depression.

A University of Florida study published in 2022 showed that older adults who had owned a pet for over five years scored higher on cognitive tests than older adults without pets. The study authors suggested that this could be linked to enhanced levels of oxytocin, increased physical activity, lower blood pressure, and reduced stress levels  all health benefits associated with owning a dog.
The numerous islands of the northern part of Bertraghboy Bay in Connemara are mostly covered in gorse or heather  or where they are low-lying they exhibit a fine fleece of reeds. Yet some have archaeological monuments that have been recorded... for those patient enough to peel away the layers of history.

Roundstone on the southwest of the bay is the standout village in the area. It attracts legions of tourists in the good weather to its lively pubs and cafes and of course its myriad boating options: sailing, angling, kayaking, island-touring.

Inishtreh or Inis Troigh lies towards the outer part of the bay on the eastern side opposite the peninsula formed by the three-part island of Inishnee now linked by a causeway to the mainland. The island is used for sheep grazing but the only noticeable manmade feature is a few lengthy walls dividing fields. However, the island does have a holy well as recorded on archaeology.ie which describes it thus: it consists of a natural smooth hollow or pothole, obscured by masses of seaweed. Most of the holy wells are dedicated to saints. Inishtrehs is no different, Colm Cille being the dedicatee (Tobar Cholmcille).

Holy wells are often located near ecclesiastical sites and also linked with venerated trees or stones on which certain beliefs are bestowed. The tradition of the venerated tree and its uncommon powers, notably of healing, pre-dates the arrival of Christianity, states Antiquities of Rural Ireland. Drinking from the holy wells was believed to provide a cure for headaches.

One of the acknowledged experts in the holy wells in Connemara was mapmaker, writer, artist, the late Tim Robinson, who documented dozens of the holy wells in the decades he lived in Connemara. Traipsing over endless bogs, down boreens, across strands, and estuaries, he has mapped many of them in his books and incomparable maps. Robinson writes I have taken so inordinate interest in the round and triangular holy wells treating them as major reference points in a landscape that otherwise teems with ungraspable iterations of details. In an area otherwise bereft of human signs the holy wells testify to a rich history where the customs of the inhabitants were played out.

The holy well on Inishtreh is on the northeast side according to the Ordnance Survey maps though such locations are sometimes inaccurate.

Following a tipoff from a fisherman, Robinson embarked on an excursion to Inishtreh to locate the famous, elusive well. At low tide it is possible to walk to the island from a pier. In fact the translation of the island comes from troigh or foot indicating that such a venture is possible. As his companion was infirm and had to stay on the boat, Robinson and he devised a system of signals (long before the boring communication system known as the smartphone came along) where one whistle would mean move north, two would mean move south, etc.

About 400m from the pier the signalling system was working and Robinson was directed to an area near some seagulls resting on rocks. After tramping across seaweed for a while and groping in rockpools he still wasnt any the wiser. When he got back to the mainland the fisherman informed him he had in fact been standing beside the holy well.

David Walsh in Oileain also states that the well has not been found. And finally, on a recent trip to the island, a similarly fruitless search was undertaken by this columnist following in the footsteps of Tim Robinson and the many islanders over the years who visited to imbibe its healing water.

There is no evidence Inishtreh was ever populated, but who knows what yet lies undiscovered beneath its furze bushes.

How to get there: No ferry. Possible to walk at very low tide from the pier 3km west of Glynsk pier which is itself 8km south of the Clifden to Galway road at a point near Recess. Important to ask for local guidance.

Other: Archaeology.ie; Antiquities of Rural Ireland, Muiris O Suilleabhain et al, Wordwell; Connemara; A Little Gaelic Kingdom, Tim Robinson, Penguin
A woman whose two children were abducted by their father in Cairo two years ago has said the Irish State is not doing enough to help people in her situation.

Mandy Kelly, from Louth, was speaking following a meeting with the ombudsman for children on Thursday.

In March 2022, her sons were taken by their father during a family holiday in Egypt.

Ms Kelly has not seen or heard from her sons Zayn, aged six, and Kareem, aged three, since then.

She met with Dr Niall Muldoon at his offices in Dublin City centre ahead of her landmark case in the family courts in Egypt in September.

Ms Kelly is taking the case after exhausting all other avenues in her efforts to have her children returned to her.

Egypt is not signed up to The Hague convention on child abductions, making it difficult to have the children brought home by the Irish State.

Dr Muldoon was concerned that we have no measures or mechanisms in place for abductions to non-Hague compliant countries on abductions, like Egypt Ms Kelly told the Irish Examiner.

I also addressed with him that I cant trust the Egyptian family law courts but have no choice but to go.

I have an international and domestic arrest warrant for my ex. But my children remain stranded in Egypt.

Dr Muldoon was also enquiring about a welfare check on my sons. One was done in December but really that is not good enough.

These are Irish citizens, no matter what country it is.

My ex husband took those children and has refused to return them and the Muslim community would seriously frown on that because they believe a child should be reared by the mother mostly.

Mr Muldoon is going to raise the issue following their meeting, Ms Kelly said.

Ms Kelly said she had no idea her husband was planning to abduct her children when they traveled to Egypt to meet his relatives.

They were registered for school and creche in September 2022.

He waited until we got to Cairo, locked me in the apartment, and took my children.

I cant even explain how distressed I was. I had to come home because there was no support for me over there whatsoever."

Ms Kelly said she wants a guarantee from the State that if she has her children returned by Egyptian authorities that her husband cannot obstruct their exit from the country.

I want more support from the State and I want my children back.

Theres just no way that there are enough measures in place to support people like me and the ombudsman said he will look into all of these issues for me before I go to court in Cairo.

Taoiseach Simon Harris also wrote to Ms Kelly recently offering his sympathies.

He cant promise me a whole lot but hes encouraging me to engage a local lawyer in Egypt," said Ms Kelly.

The Government has told me that they believe the right course of action is the Egyptian courts.

"It wont be long before this case goes before the courts in Cairo and we wont be long seeing if that is actually true.

I intend to get them home but I also intend to make sure this never happens anyone else.
More than 200 staff members of EU institutions and agencies have signed a letter expressing growing concern over the unions response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, arguing it runs contrary to its core values and aim of promoting peace.

The letter, signed by 211 people in their personal capacity as citizens, is addressed to Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, Roberta Metsola, the president of the European Parliament, and Charles Michel, who heads the European Council.

It begins by condemning the October 7 attacks in the strongest terms.

Citing the January ruling by the International Court of Justice that suggested a credible risk to Palestinians under the Genocide Convention, the letter warns the EUs continued apathy to the plight of Palestinians risks normalising a world order where the sheer use of force, rather than a rule-based system, determines state security, territorial integrity and political independence.

It was precisely to avert such a grim world order that our grandparents, witnesses of the horrors of World War II, created Europe, the letter reads.

To stand idly by in the face of such an erosion of the international rule of law would mean failing the European project as envisaged by them. This cannot happen in our name.

The letter was written by a small group of staffers, said Zeno Benetti, one of the organisers.

We couldnt believe that our leaders who were so vocal about human rights and who described Europe as the beacon of human rights were suddenly so silent about the crisis unfolding in Gaza, he said.

Its like suddenly we were asked to turn a blind eye on our values and on the values that we were allegedly working for. And for us, this was not acceptable.

Organisers had hoped to reach 100 signatures  a figure that was swiftly surpassed as word of the letter spread.

The letter highlights the many NGOs that have repeatedly called for a ceasefire, adding: The EUs inability to respond to these increasingly desperate calls is in clear contradiction with the values that the EU stands for and that we stand for.

It urges the EU to officially call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, adding this to a list of requests that include officially calling for the release of all hostages and to ensure member states halt direct and indirect arms exports to Israel.

Mr Benetti emphasised the initiative was not meant to be pro-Palestinian, nor was it aimed at taking a partisan stance on the conflict.

Guardian
Ireland will face inevitable consequences for supporting the seizure of Russian funds for use in Ukraine, Moscows embassy in Dublin has warned.

Russias Ambassador to Ireland issued the warning after EU countries, including Ireland, formally adopted a plan earlier this month to seize profits from Russias frozen assets to fund weapons and aid for Ukraine.

Ambassador Yuri Filatov has warned that Irelands involvement in this illegal decision makes it an an accomplice in an outright theft against Russia.

The responsibility for this criminal behavior lies upon all partakers  Ireland included  who should be prepared to take responsibility for their actions," he said.

The warning is the latest in a number from Mr Filatov since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022.

In his statement on Friday, Mr Filatov, added: The Irish government has signed up for this unprecedented and illegal decision. It has nothing to do with the norms of international law and even so-called rules based order, hailed by Ireland.

It should be clear that by doing so Ireland has become an accomplice in an outright theft, proving to be a participant in the Wests hybrid war against Russia.

What had begun with EU sanctions and freezing of the Russian state assets is now a full scale robbery in broad daylight.

He said the agreement was similar to what the West has previously done to other countries that were deemed as hostile to Washington or Brussels.

As well as this being an illegal expropriation, which clearly goes against the spirit and the letter of the law he said the decision shows how unpredictable and untrustworthy European financial institutions are.

He warned: That is going to increase the already started process of the withdrawal of funds by foreign investors, inevitably leading to a further economic decline of the EU, as well as to other negative consequences for European and global economy.

The responsibility for this criminal behavior lies upon all partakers  Ireland included  who should be prepared to take responsibility for their actions.

Since Russia regards the seizure of revenue from its frozen sovereign assets in the European Union as an economic aggression in clear violation of all legal norms and a hostile political act, the response is inevitable and it will come in the form that best suits Russias interests.
A Dublin man has been accused of the disposal of body parts and impeding the investigation into the murder and dismemberment of Drogheda teenager Keane Mulready Woods in 2020.

Stephen Carberry, 46, appeared at Dublin District Court on Friday and made no bail application after facing three serious charges, which will result in a trial before the non-jury Special Criminal Court.

Judge Monika Leech remanded Mr Carberry, of Adair Apartments, Sandymount, Dublin 4, in custody to appear again on May 31.

Keane Mulready Woods, 17, was last seen alive by his family on the evening of Sunday, January 12, 2020.

He was killed, and his body was later dismembered.

Remains found at Coolock and in a burnt-out vehicle at Trinity Terrace, Dublin, and at Rathmullan Park in Drogheda, Co Louth, were those of the missing boy.

Mr Carberry was accused of damaging a Volvo V40 car by fire, bearing false registration plates for the benefit of a criminal organisation, on January 15 at Trinity Terrace, Ballybough, Dublin 3.

The second charge alleges that from January 13-15, 2020, at Trinity Terrace, to enhance the ability of a criminal organisation to commit a serious offence, murder, he participated in or contributed to the transportation and disposal of body parts of Keane Mulready Woods.

The third charge states that over the same two-day period at locations in the State, he impeded the apprehension or prosecution of another person who committed the murder and knowing they were guilty of that or another offence.

Detective Sergeant Enda OSullivan of Mountjoy Garda Station told Judge Leech Mr Carberry replied: I was never in Ballybough, to one charge and did not respond to the other two.

Det Sgt OSullivan added the Director of Public Prosecutions had decided Mr Carberry should be tried in the Special Criminal Court.

He expected the book of evidence would not be ready for at least four weeks.

Defence solicitor John Feaheny said his client was not applying for bail at this stage.

The judge remanded Mr Carberry in custody to appear again next Friday but noted the book of evidence would not be ready then.

Legal aid was granted to Mr Carberry.

Charges against Owen Flood

A second man, Owen Flood, 30, who faced related charges, also appeared before the same court. He is accused of using a stolen car at Sandymount Avenue, Dublin 4, on December 19, 2019.

On the same date, it is alleged Mr Flood, of Ballybough Avenue, Dublin 3, stole 50 of diesel from Applegreen Service Station, M1 Northbound, Lusk, Co Dublin.

Detective Sergeant Fergus Finnegan said Mr Floods reply to the charge was: Ill plead guilty straight away.

The DPP instructed gardai Mr Flood would face trial on indictment in the Circuit Court and that a book of evidence must also be drafted for his case.

He was granted legal aid after the judge was informed he had no assets. His solicitor, Aoife McTaggart, said the defence was reserving our position on bail, and he was remanded in custody to appear again next Friday.

Neither defendant addressed the court during their brief separate appearances before Judge Leech.

Last year, two men were jailed by the Special Criminal Court for connected crimes.

Gerard Cruise, 50, of Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to a charge that, with knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, he facilitated the murder of Keane Mulready Woods at Rathmullan Park, Drogheda.

He was handed a seven-year jail term.

Paul Crosby, 28, of Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to the same charge and was imprisoned for 10 years.

Those proceedings heard the prime suspect in the murder was Robert Lawlor, a notorious criminal.

Lawlor, 36, from Dublin, was shot dead in Belfast in April 2020.
A coroner has warned that there is no quality or quantity of cocaine that is safe ever after the death of a young Dublin man from a drugs overdose while socialising at home with housemates two years ago.

Coroner Aisling Gannon made her remarks about the danger of consuming cocaine at an inquest into the death of David OGrady at his home at Carraig Bui, Johnstown Road, Cabinteely, Co Dublin on June 6, 2022.

A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court heard the 31-year-old sales account manager with a recruitment firm was found unresponsive on the floor of the bedroom of one of his housemates where he had fallen asleep the night before.

One of the housemates, Sorcha Deane, told the hearing that Mr OGrady and her two other housemates had been drinking alcohol when she and a friend, Aoife McCabe, had gone out for lunch the previous day before returning at 4pm.

Ms Deane said the three men joined them in her bedroom at around 6pm where they all drank alcohol.

She recalled that Mr OGrady originally seemed fine but that his condition seemed to change after he started going in and out of her room and began to slur his words and become unsteady.

The witness said she was aware that her housemate used to take opiates and Xanax". Ms Deane said she had spoken previously to Mr OGrady about his drug taking and he had said he wanted to go to rehab". She told the inquest that he fell asleep on the floor of her bedroom at around 11pm and was later snoring loudly and could not be woken.

Ms Deane said Mr OGrady appeared quite still at some stage the following morning and did not seem to be moving.

She alerted her other housemates when Ms McCabe got no response when she tried to shake him.

Ms McCabe told the coroner that Mr OGrady had appeared more drunk than anyone else in the house and was aware that he had taken tablets.

She recalled being woken by Ms Deane to say that something was wrong with their friend.

'Addiction issue'

Another housemate, Nicholas Watts, said he was aware that Mr OGrady, with whom he was friends since they attended Newpark Comprehensive School in Blackrock, had an addiction issue". Mr Watts said his friend had only mentioned for the first time ever shortly before his death about his wish to go to rehab. I hoped he would get back on track, he observed.

He recalled Mr OGrady slumped to the ground while the group of friends were chatting but noted it had happened before and he had placed his friend in the recovery position.

Mr Watts said he was subsequently woken by Ms Deanes screaming over not being able to wake their housemate and he helped to provide CPR until an ambulance crew arrived at the house.

It was a complete shock. One of the worst days I ever experienced in my life, he added.

Another housemate and former schoolmate of the deceased, Jamie McStay, recalled that everyone was a bit shocked when Mr OGrady appeared to pass out.

Mr McStay said it was felt that their friend was OK when he started snoring after being put in the recovery position.

When he later responded to cries from his other housemate, he said he found Mr OGrady was not breathing and his lips were blue.

Although Mr McStay said he was aware his friend used to take tablets, he added: I did not think something like this would happen.

Garda Darragh Hughes confirmed to the inquest that no foul play was suspected in relation to Mr OGradys death.

The coroner noted that a 999 call to alert emergency services to attend the house had been made at 6.59am.

In response to questions by the deceaseds mother, Ann OGrady, about packets of tablets found near her sons body, Ms Gannon said they had probably been left there by paramedics who had sought information about what drugs he might have taken.

The deceaseds brother, Stephen OGrady, gave evidence of being alerted by one of his brothers friends via Facebook about what happened before travelling to Cabinteely to formally identify his brothers body to gardai.

Multi-drug toxicity

Ms Gannon said a postmortem showed Mr OGrady had died as a result of multi-drug toxicity with evidence of cocaine, diazepam, ketamine and alprazolam (Xanax) found in his body.

The coroner said it was not possible to state when exactly Mr OGrady had taken the drugs and in what quantities but noted the postmortem found a toxic level of alprazolam.

She added: There is no quality or quantity of cocaine that is safe ever.

Ms Gannon pointed out that cocaine was known to cause an irregular heartbeat in users.

The coroner said the deceased had also tested positive for covid-19 which she assessed as being a contributory factor in his death.

Ms Gannon offered her sympathy to Mr OGradys family on their devastating loss and noted that it was very difficult for his loved ones to hear about the events of his death and for his friends who were there at the time to relive the experience.

Returning a verdict of death by misadventure, the coroner said Mr OGradys death was the unintended consequence of consuming drugs on the date in question.
A Cork woman facing the prospect of jail because of repeated failures to open her door to gardai checking her nightly curfew came up with the unusual proposal to set her alarm for 3am to delay taking her sleeping tablet.

Margaret Foley, 37, with an address at 1B Grenville Place, Cork, blamed her sleeping tablets for her failure to open the door to gardai at night.

She said she suffered from conditions including anxiety that resulted in her taking sleeping tablets. And these made her sleep so deeply she would not hear the guards knocking at the door.

The reason she was on bail in the first place was that she was accused of carrying out a burglary and directions in the case will not be available from the Director of Public Prosecutions until September.

Garda Gheorghe Rosu said on Friday at Cork District Court that gardai called to the defendants home during this month and last month to make sure she was abiding by the terms of a curfew to be at home between 10pm and 7am each night.

Garda Rosu testified that on nine occasions there was no answer to the Garda call from Margaret Foley when they were making their curfew check.

Evidence was given in the form of written statements from different gardai that they called at various times in that period and Ms Foley failed to answer.

The calls were made on various dates in April and May at 15 minutes after midnight, 3.10am, 2.30am, 1.12am, 1.50am, 2.20am, a minute after midnight, 22 minutes after midnight, and 28 minutes after midnight. She failed to answer on each of those Garda calls.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said the State application was to have Margaret Foley remanded in custody because of being in breach of her bail conditions nine times.

Ms Foley testified: I take sleeping tablets at 10pm. Apart from these nine times, I answered. These calls were after midnight. The latest was ten past three. Most of the time before midnight I answer the door.

Because she is sleeping so heavily after taking the medication, she said: I will take them after the guards call this time around. I wont take medication until 3/3.30 in the morning.

Her solicitor, Diarmuid Kelleher, said Ms Foley would set her alarm for 3am and take her sleeping tablet at that time so she would not be sleeping heavily under the effect of the sleeping tablet when gardai called.

Judge Mary Dorgan said she would adjourn the case with the accused on continuing bail. The judge did not make it a condition of the renewed bail Ms Foleys plan to set her alarm to take her sleeping tablet at 3am.

Judge Dorgan said it was up to Margaret Foley how she arranged her matters so that she would keep her curfew conditions.

The judge said one thing was certain  and she was noting it on the documents for the case  that this would be Margaret Foleys last chance.

If Ms Foley does put her new plan into effect, essentially she will be setting her alarm every night for 3am in order to wake her up to take her sleeping pill.
The delivery of a high-frequency commuter rail service will be as transformational for Cork as the Dart has been for Dublin.

Thats the view of Iarnrod Eireann's AJ Cronin, the delivery manager of the long-awaited Cork Commuter Rail Project (CCRP), who from his office on Cork's north docks is overseeing the largest investment ever in heavy rail in the region.

He leads a team of 24 Irish Rail staff, co-located in the same building with the NTA's first regional office outside Dublin, and with other key transport consultants, who are working to transform the public transport offering in the Cork metropolitan area.

"Everything that you would want lined up has lined up for Cork. Now we have a huge opportunity of delivering it," he said.

CCRP will meet and deliver the vision that was set out in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Study [CMATS] which provides for a 10-minute frequency on the three routes from Mallow to Cork, to Cobh and Midleton  with effectively a turn-up-and-go' service from Glounthaune to Cork.

Its a really significant step change from where we are today, operating a 30-minute service on those routes, to a 10-minute service frequency in the future.

He was speaking ahead of the official announcement today of the awarding of the latest contract in the next phase of delivery of the CCRP.

The CCRP has been divided into seven work packages with work on three well under way, representing an investment of around 300m, to facilitate more trains on the network.

Work package one is the construction of a through platform at Kent Station to facilitate the through-running of trains from Mallow to Cobh and Midleton and vice versa. Work is due to be finished by the end of this year;

Work package two is a 180m investment in upgrading the signalling and communications infrastructure. Civil works started last February, with a completion date at the end of 2026;

Work package three involves the twin-tracking of the Glounthaune to Midleton section  an investment of around 90m. The city to Midleton route is 10km, with single track on 6.7km. Double tracking the entire length will help provide the 10-minute frequency.

The railway order for this work was granted by An Bord Pleanala in October 2023, less than a year after the application. It was the first railway order granted in more than a decade.

A contract for the work is due to be awarded next month, and the work completed by the end of 2026.

What is being announced today has been hailed as a major milestone in the delivery of the CCRP because it includes the long-awaited commuter rail stations and a depot to store the vast new rail fleet.

It bundles work packages four, five, and six together, in a single contract worth some 50m.

Work package four relates to the new stations, and upgrades to the existing stations.

A map showing the proposed locations of stations on the Cork Commuter Rail network.

Up to five will be delivered as soon as possible, including those at Blackpool/Kilbarry, at Carrigtwohill East, and Water Rock, with others such as Monard and Ballynoe coming later, in line with housing development.

'We will progress the stations as the demand requires and that will be driven by the city and county development plans, AJ Cronin said. Picture: David Creedon

We will progress the stations as the demand requires and that will be driven by the city and county development plans, Mr Cronin said.

Blarney will get a significant park-and-ride and terminal station, to support proposed housing at Stoneview and Ringwood, with a third platform, a passing loop, and charging infrastructure required, some 9km from the city and 24km from Mallow station. It will also tie into the M20 Cork to Limerick motorway project.

Another new park-and-ride train station is proposed for Irish Rails former freight site at North Esk near Dunkettle.

Work package five provides for a new fleet depot to cater for at least two thirds of the new electrified fleet of some 150 vehicles, with six potential sites under consideration.

Work package six consists of the electrification of the commuter rail network.

The final works package, number seven, is the new rolling stock  key to delivering the service on the ground.

Our existing fleet on the commuter network arrived in 1994. But today, that fleet is maxed, it's a life-expired fleet. We have sweated the asset as best we can, Mr Cronin said.

Irish Rail has an existing fleet framework order of 750 vehicles in place with train-maker Alstom, and the company will use this agreement to order X'Trapolis trains for the CCRP fleet.
A landmark contract will be announced today for the design of eight long-mooted commuter rail stations and a new depot to store a vast new 150-strong fleet for metropolitan Cork's 1.6bn high-frequency commuter rail project.

The 50m contract, the fourth on the journey to delivery of the Cork Commuter Rail Project (CCRP), will be confirmed by Transport Minister Eamon Ryan in the city this morning at an event also attended by Iarnrod Eireann chief Jim Meade and National Transport Authority chief Anne Graham.

The Irish Examiner has learned that the contract will have three specific and significant work packages, including:

The design of, and option to build, eight new stations on the commuter rail lines which run from Cork north to Mallow, east to Midleton, and south to Cobh, upgrades to the existing nine commuter stations, and the development of a major multi-modal integrated transport hub next to the citys Kent train station;

The design of a new fleet depot for up to 150 carriages, with six sites under consideration;

The electrification of the network following confirmation that static charging of a battery electric fleet at the termini and depot has been identified as the preferred option.

Mr Ryan is expected to hail todays announcement as a major step towards the delivery of the CCRP - the rail-based element of the 2021 Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Study (CMATS), a transport blueprint for the region.

Eamon Ryan is expected to hail todays announcement as a major step towards the delivery of the rail element of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Study. Picture: Nick Bradshaw/PA Wire

He will confirm that the design, plan, and option-to-build contract for this latest works package has been awarded to a joint venture involving Roughan ODonovan and TYPSA.

A map showing the proposed locations of stations on the proposed Cork Commuter Rail network.

They will design new stations for Monard, which is earmarked for a new town, for the site of a former train station at Kilbarry, near Blackpool, at a new site in Tivoli, where significant residential growth is planned on Port of Cork land, at Carrigtwohill West, Water Rock, and Ballynoe, as well as two strategic park-and-ride train stations at Blarney, to support major residential growth at Stoneview, and at the Irish Rail-owned North Esk site in Dunkettle.

At least five stations will be delivered almost immediately, with others coming later as housing is developed nearby.

Subject to planning being granted, and funding, which is in place, it is hoped that all of the work will be completed by 2030.

Funded by the National Transport Authority and EU resilience funding, the huge CCRP has been split into seven work packages, with three major contracts already under way  the 23m through-platform project at Kent Station, the 180m signalling and communications upgrade of the network, and the 90m dual-tracking of the Glounthaune to Midleton line, where construction is due to start within weeks.

With the award of today's contract containing three work packages, just one work package remains  the replacement of the city's existing 1994-built train fleet and the purchase of a vast new fleet of up to 150 carriages to service the expanding commuter rail network to facilitate the ultimate 10-minute service frequency.

AJ Cronin, Iarnrod Eireann delivery manager for the CCRP, described the scale of investment as unprecedented. Picture: David Creedon

AJ Cronin, Iarnrod Eireann's delivery manager for the CCRP, described the scale of investment as unprecedented.

This is effectively the largest investment in heavy rail in Cork, in the regions, ever. It is a really significant investment in public transport, he said.

It will transform the public transport offering in the Cork metropolitan area.

"It will meet and deliver the vision that was set out in the CMATS.

Today, Irish Rail operates eight 1994-built two-car 2600 diesel cars  16 vehicles  on the Cork to Midleton and Cobh routes. Thats going to go to 150 vehicles by the time we're finished."

Once the line between Glounthaune and Midleton is dual-tracked, trains could run up to every five minutes between the city and Glounthaune, effectively a turn-up and go service.
A race for the right may be how the Dublin European elections go down, with seven candidates on the ballot paper who could be placed into this category.

With tented encampments springing up initially outside the International Protection offices on Mount St and now along the Grand Canal, migration is an issue all candidates will have to grapple with regardless of what way they lean.

But those who range from the populist right to the far-right will be looking to attract voters through a more hardline stance on asylum seeker policy.

The question is, will any be able to break through, or will they simply cancel each other out?

LIE OF THE LAND

There are four seats up for grabs in the constituency which covers city and county.

However, voters going to polling stations will be confronted with an unwieldy ballot paper with 23 runners hoping to make it across the line on June 7.

Competitive and unpredictable is how the voting pattern of Dubliners could be characterised, as down the decades high-profile incumbents have been evicted from their seats, while more quirky or niche candidates have been elected.

Unlike the other two constituencies which will force hopefuls to clock up tens of thousands of kilometres on the campaign trail, the Dublin constituencys geography is condensed.

It means candidates can take advantage of Dart and Luas stations to meet large numbers of constituents and with new traffic restrictions promised for the city, public transport is an issue that is to the fore.

Similar to 2019, the long-promised Metro North project, while not exactly a European issue, will be one of the items raised on the doorsteps.

Housing, is also a concern of many Dublin residents whether renting of in their own homes.

INCUMBENTS

Three of the four incumbents are hoping to retain their seats, leaving one seat wide open, but sitting MEPs cannot afford to sit on their laurels as the Dublin constituency has a long history of turfing people out in favour of new candidates.

Barry Andrews managed to claw back a seat in the capital constituency for Fianna Fail in 2019.

Barry Andrews has been strong in Europe and will be hoping to retaining his seat in Brussels. Picture: Gareth Chaney

The former minister, who also worked as head of Goal, claimed what was dubbed the 'Brexit seat' the last time around, which meant he had to wait until after Britain formally exited the EU at the end of 2020 to take his post.

He has been strong in Europe and will be hoping to retaining his seat in Brussels.

Green Party candidate Ciaran Cuffe sailed in on a green wave that was the story of the 2019 local and European elections.

While he has been another strong performer in Europe, he will face significant competition to hold onto his seat for another term.

Calre Daly has maintained a high profile during her time as an MEP. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

Clare Daly has maintained a high profile during her time as an MEP, taking a strident stance on both Russia's invasion of Ukraine and more recently highlighting the Israeli bombardment of Gaza.

Unlike others on the ballot, the Independents 4 Change candidate won't have her face plastered across the city as she is not using posters during this campaign due to the impact of micro-plastics on the environment.

The decision of Fine Gael's Frances Fitzgerald not to run again came as a blow to her party.

The former Justice Minister had carved out a strong reputation amongst EU colleagues campaigning for changes around domestic gender-based violence.

Another surprise for Fine Gael came in the selection of Regina Doherty at the party selection convention. Ms Doherty defeated junior minister Josepha Madigan, who had been favoured by the party hierarchy, as well as fellow senator Barry Ward.

LEAN TO THE RIGHT

Among those campaigning on a right-wing agenda is outspoken radio talk show host Niall Boylan, who is running under the Independent Ireland banner.

He has claimed that for many years Ireland has badly managed immigration law, stating on his website that policy in this area has been "nothing short of reckless".

Niall Boylan is running for Independent Ireland.

The colourful character has also revealed that after his marriage ended, he became homeless for two years, often sleeping in his car outside the radio station where he worked.

Others, who will perhaps be vying to steal votes from the same pot, include Patrick Quinlan of the National Party; Philip Dwyer, an Ireland First candidate, and Diarmaid O Conarain, of Irish Freedom Party.

There are also a myriad of Independent candidates some of whom are more visible than others both online and on the ground.

THE HOPEFULS

Another Boylan on the ballot paper is the Sinn Fein representative, Lynn Boylan, who will be hoping to regain the seat she lost in 2019.

Ms Boylan, whose partner is sitting Sinn Fein TD Eoin O Broin, was first elected to Brussels in 2014.

Lynn Boylan will be hoping to regain the seat she lost in 2019. Picture: Moya Nolan

As a member of the Seanad, she has been to the fore in raising climate and environmental issues.

But Sinn Fein is taking a chance by running two candidates in what is a crowded Dublin field, also choosing to put long-serving councillor Daithi Doolan on the ticket.

People Before Profit TD Brid Smith will also be taking votes from the left.

The TD, who announced last July that she would be standing down from the Dail at the next election, is now focusing her attention on Brussels.

People Before Profit TD Brid Smith will also be taking votes from the left.

The Dublin South TD has criticised the lack of humanity when discussing migration issues, and is well known for her campaigning on women's rights and equality issues.

Labour has been strong in the Dublin constituency down the years, holding two seats between 1979 and 1983. In later years, Proinsias De Rossa won multiple European elections for the party.

Sitting TD Aodhan O Riordan will therefore be hoping to capitalise on this traditional support base.

His retro poster design bearing the slogan 'For the love of Dublin', stands out among the others on telephone poles and signposts across the city.

Aodhan O Riordan decided to run for the European Elections after he had a 'visceral' reaction to last years Dublin riots. Picture: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie

Other ones to watch include well-known trade unionist Brendan Ogle, who came to prominence when he led a rail strike by the Irish Locomotive Drivers Association which resulted in major travel disruption over the course of three months.

Sinead Gibney of the Social Democrats also cannot be ruled out.

PREDICTIONS

It would be expected that Fine Gael and Fianna Fail will each hold onto a seat, however, there are some jitters that the electorate may only have an appetite to return one MEP from the two main political parties.

If this materialises, it would be a big upset and could even destabilise relations within the coalition.

A recent Irish Times poll had Barry Andrews in a comfortable position on 18%, trailed by Lynn Boylan on 15% meaning both Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein can expect to take a seat.

However, the final two seats could end up being a dogfight between Regina Doherty, Ciaran Cuffe, Aodhan O Riordan, Niall Boylan, Clare Daly, Sinead Gibney, and possibly Brid Smith.

Transfers and the sequence of eliminations could be crucial.

Who is running?

In Dublin 23 candidates, including three sitting MEPs, are contesting the European election.

1.Barry Andrews, Fianna Fail. The sitting MEP comes from a strong political dynasty, his father David and uncle Niall both serviced as TDs, while his cousin, Chris Andrews has been a Sinn Fein TD since 2020.

His brother, David McSavage is a comedian, and he is a first cousin of former RTE television and radio presenter Ryan Tubridy.

2.Clare Daly, Independents 4 Change. An outspoken politician, Daly has made numerous contributions in the European Parliament both on the war in Ukraine and the Israeli bombardment in Gaza. The former TD is hoping to retain her seat in the European Parliament.

3.Ciaran Cuffe, Green Party. The sitting MEP is a first cousin of Robert F Kennedy Jr, of the famous Boston politician dynasty, who is running in the US presidential elections later this year.

Ciaran Cuffe will face significant competition to hold onto his seat for another term.

Cuffe, who serviced as Minister of State from 2010 to 2011, is also the great-grandson of Philip Francis Little, who was the first prime Mminister of Newfoundland in 1854.

4. Lynn Boylan, Sinn Fein. The Sinn Fein spokesperson on climate justice previously served as an MEP between 2014 to 2019.

She lives in Clondalkin with her partner and fellow Sinn Fein politician Eoin O Broin.

In the Seanad, she has brought forward legislation to ban the dumping of any usable products, with fines for companies that do so.

5. Daithi Doolan, Sinn Fein. The long-serving Dublin city councillor grew up in Bishopstown, Co Cork.

He contested two general elections for Sinn Fein in Dublin South-East in 2002 and 2007.

6. Regina Doherty, Fine Gael. The Fine Gael senator pulled off a coup within her own party when she managed to win the EU nomination, despite competition from former culture minister Josepha Madigan, as well as Senator Barry Ward at the selection convention.

Regina Doherty pulled off a coup within her own party when she managed to win the EU nomination. Picture: Fergal Phillips

Having lost her Meath East Dail seat in the last election, she announced in September 2020, that she would seek Fine Gaels nomination to contest the next general election in the Dublin Fingal constituency.

7. Brid Smith, People Before Profit-Solidarity. The long-serving politician and activist has her eye on Europe after announcing her retirement from Leinster House earlier this year.

Known for her campaigning on issues including womens rights, abortion and Palestine, she is often seen with her beloved dog Barney, who accompanies her into Leinster House in her van.

8. Aodhan O Riordain, Labour. The former teacher and sitting TD said he decided to run for the European Elections after he had a visceral reaction to last years Dublin riots, which resulted in a lightbulb moment for him.

The father-of-two has also said that we cannot afford to have another government mouthpiece or Kremlin acolyte, in Europe.

9. Sinead Gibney, Social Democrats. The Social Democrats candidate caused a stir in political circles earlier this year when she unexpectedly stepped down as chief commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission to seek the party nomination to run for Europe.

10. Aisling Considine, Aontu. Considine is standing to win a seat on Dublin city council as well in Brussels under the Aontu banner.

She is a primary school teacher and mother-of-one and states that she is a passionate Gaeilgeoir.

11. Niall Boylan, Independent Ireland. Boylan, known for hosting a nighttime talk show on Classic Hits FM alongside his own Niall Boylan Podcast, is standing for the Independent Ireland party, which is led by Cork South West TD Michael Collins.

He recently revealed he was homeless for two years and slept in his car outside the radio station where he worked many nights.

12. Rebecca Barrett, National Party. Barrett is a mother, homeschooler, and the wife of Justin Barrett, who is also running for the National Party in Midlands Northwest.

She was unsuccessful in the 2020 general election and gained headlines the same year when Twitter, now known as X, removed a tweet she posted targeting the ethnicity of former Dublin Lord Mayor Hazel Chu, claiming it violated the rules of the social media platform 13. Patrick Quinlan, National Party.

13. Patrick Quinlan, National Party. Mr Quinn is the deputy leader of the National Party and its Dublin West representative in the local elections.

14. Philip Dwyer, Ireland First. The self-styled citizen journalist has been a prominent personality at anti-immigration demonstrations across the country, live-streaming many of the protests.

A former postman, he has been described in the Dail as a creche creeper and dog kicker, in reference to two separate incidents relating to him.

15. Diarmaid O Conarain, Irish Freedom Party. Campaigning on the issue of migration, OConarain also says that if elected he would fight for the abolition of carbon taxes, which affects everyone from motorists to small businesses and the end consumer.

He is is the author of Why Youre Wrong: Equality, Diversity and Much More.

16. Andy Heasman, Irish People Party. Heasman was involved in protests outside libraries last year over the stocking of sex education books.

He confirmed to followers on X earlier this month that he had appeared in court in relation to four charges, taking issue with how this played out.

17. Dr Umar Al-Qadri, Ind. The chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council is running to stand up against hatred, division and injustice.

Earlier this year, Gardai launched an investigation, after the Muslim cleric said that he was the victim of a hate crime which he believed was pre-planned.

18. Stephen ORourke, Ind. As a scientist, the Independent candidate says he is dedicated to bringing practical, evidence-based solutions to the European Parliament. Immigration is also a core issue in his campaign and he has said that Europe must tackle falling birth rates through incentives for families, rather than relying solely on immigration to solve demographic challenges.

19. Malachy Steenson, Ind. The Independent candidate recently claimed he was subject to an attack, during which an individual threatened to kill him after turning up at his office. A man was arrested following the incident.

20. Robin Cafolla, An Rabharta Glas. Cafolla is a software engineer and climate activist. He is a strong believer in non-hierarchical organising and the egalitarian principle.

21. Brendan Ogle, Ind. The well-known trade-unionist was recently in the news due to a discrimination case he has taken against his employer, Unite the Union, at the Workplace Relations Commission.

He has also been involved in political campaigns most prominently in the resistance to water charges in 2014 and the Home Sweet Home campaign at Christmas 2016 when activists occupied Apollo House in Dublin and created accommodation for rough sleepers in the building.

He first came to prominence in 2000 when he led a rail strike by the Irish Locomotive Drivers Association which led to major travel disruption over the course of three months.

22.Conor Murphy, Ind. The Independent candidate is a medical student, who also describes himself as having more than 30 years experience in the international blue chip sector.

23. Eamon Murphy, Ind. Murphy, who had an unsuccessful bid in the 2019 EU elections, describes himself as a pro-life, pro-woman candidate.
Have you heard of Mary Mallon?

Mary was exceptional. She was an Irish immigrant who arrived in America in 1884, at the tender age of fifteen. She went on to cause the death of between three and fifty people. For a time, she was considered the most dangerous woman in America.

Mary Mallon wasnt an assassin, or a spy. She was a cook in the private home of wealthy families. And no, she didnt poison her unfortunate diners. She killed them, and infected dozens more, by passing on a deadly but symptomless infection.

Typhoid Mary, as she became known, was the first-recorded asymptomatic carrier of Salmonellatyphi, an infectious form of salmonella that can cause fever, diarrhoea, and death.

Ive written in this column before about how us humans are less capable of responding to invisible threats. Marys story is a perfect example of this phenomenon. Mary never believed she was infectious  and her not knowing, and not believing, led to great tragedy.

Linda Inez Leccese, who is HIV positive, is suspected of infecting 211 men.

Why am I thinking about Typhoid Mary this week? Well, America discovered another Typhoid Mary just over a week ago. Linda Inez Leccese was charged on May 14 with soliciting after she tested positive for HIV, which is a third-degree felony, according to the Washington County Sheriffs Office. She is suspected of infecting 211 men. The same day she was being arrested, I happened to be teaching a room of second year students about sexually transmitted infections.

STIs present a significant public health challenge with overone million STIs being acquired globally every day. Left untreated, STIs might not kill you, but they can cause serious health issues, such as infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. Many people are unaware that they have an STI as they are often, as in the case of Typhoid Mary, entirely asymptomatic.

We also discussed consent and pregnancy that day, as part of the Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) curriculum.

These are topics that must be discussed openly in all educational settings, without shame or the fear of some authority banishing anyone to the naughty step or, you know, hell.

There is still a gargantuan problem within our education system, and its not going away. Parents will always have the right to remove children from RSE classes. Schools still have the right to omit these lessons if they feel it is against their ethos. A serious health concern, affecting society at large, is being trumped by peoples personal discomfort and moral panic.

In April of last year, Education Minister Norma Foley received hundreds of letters of complaints from parents about teachers teaching what I am currently teaching: fact-based lessons on things like STIs, pregnancy and consent. People shared their outrage, threatening the usual  to remove their child from classes.

As far as Im concerned, these topics should be mandatory in all state schools. Ignorance should not be an option, not in 2024, and especially not when the stakes are so high.

To give an example of just why RSE is so important, there was one moment during the lesson, before we got to the STI part, which struck me as hugely significant. I was reading out statements before asking students to discuss whether they were true or false.

Statement: If someone consents to sex and then pushes you away it means they still want to have sex. Nobody came to an answer easily. One male student said: It is so subjective. I mean, she might be pushing you away in a suggestive way. How can you tell? A precious learning moment.

The statement is false, I announced before explaining why, discussing the absolute need for clarity, and open, sober communication in such scenarios. The students were offered objective, factual advice to keep them safe and well  to keep those they may encounter safe and well too. The conversations between them were fruitful, mature, and important.

Then came the STI section of the quiz.

On this they were fairly good, but they were as shocked as I was at the prevalence of the problem in Ireland.

My statement: The overall STI rate in young people aged 15-24 years increased by 38% in 2023 compared to 2022. True or False?

True.

In 2023 Gonorrhoea notification rates in females aged 15-24 years increased by 152%.

True. It was an important lesson. We all need to know how to protect ourselves, and young people especially. Summer loving may be having many a blast this summer, but the threat of increased STIs is a very real concern.

The European Union health agency has reported a troubling surge in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across Europe and, in March of this year, remarked that their data could just be the tip of the iceberg.

Covid did wonders in terms of keeping people away from each other but as the temperature increases for the summer, one wonders what the data will look like in a few months time. How did Shakespeare put it? For now, these hot days, is the mad blood stirring.

Typhoid Mary is now a colloquial term for anyone who, knowingly or not, spreads disease or something else undesirable. I wonder how many Typhoid Marys (or Mickeys) are heading out to unknowingly pass on an infection to a sexual partner this summer? How will we deal with it when the numbers rise further?

The Sexual Wellbeing campaign aimed at 17 to 30-year-olds emphasises the importance of condom use.

Efforts are being made to educate people and the Sexual Wellbeing campaign aimed at 17 to 30-year-olds emphasises the importance of condom use whilst raising awareness of the free home STI testing service. But schools need to do this work a lot sooner and it needs to happen in every single classroom at post-primary level. A study in 2020 revealed that almost four in five 1824-year-olds had no plans to get tested for STIs in 2020. We are still passing on the idea to young people that sex is a topic best not discussed for fear of moral judgement.

Mary Mallon was forcibly quarantined twice, and the second time it lasted until she died. I wonder what level of education she received about her own condition. Did she understand when she returned to cooking, after her first quarantine, that she was causing such potential harm? What if it was all down to a lack of education? As the story goes, Mary threatened authorities with a carving knife when they first tracked her down as the link between various typhoid outbreaks. What does that say about her state of mind?

She was also treated horrendously, was restrained, and forced to give regular samples and, as she described it, used as a guinea pig. She never believed she was a carrier, and even went so far as to sue the state but lost the case.

It is very possible that she was a traumatised young woman, having left a famine-ravaged community in Tyrone. Its also possible she simply didnt understand the facts. She lacked the education. Germ theory was in its infancy after all. There was a lot of ignorance, as well as infection, going round.

Yet, some of us seem content to leave young people in the same state of ignorance and fear, regardless of the consequences for themselves, or the rest of society.
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Commitment to Sustainability

Gas Networks Ireland is committed to promoting sustainability across its business and in the communities where it operates. One of only 41 companies in Ireland to hold the Business Working Responsibly Mark, Gas Networks Ireland maintained an A minus (A-) grade in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) climate change rating score in 2023, exceeding the global, European and sector averages to finish in the top quartile of all businesses assessed globally.

Leave No Trace Hot Spot Programme

For a third year in a row, Gas Networks Ireland is collaborating with Leave No Trace to support the Hot Spot programme. The Hot Spot programme is a conservation project aimed at addressing the impact of heavy use and activities on areas of natural beauty and ecological importance.

Participants at a Bat Walk in Midleton, Co Cork, to celebrate Heritage Week 2023.

As part of 2023 National Tree Week, in collaboration with volunteers from Leave No Trace, Fingal County Council, Gas Networks Ireland and the local community, 600 native Irish Trees were planted at Turvey Nature Reserve in Co Dublin.

In October 2023, together with Leave No Trace and our main contractors at our Baldrumman Above Ground Installation in Co Dublin where we planted nearly 14,000 native Irish trees in 2023, to stamp down the vegetation growing around the young saplings to help them thrive and allow more light to the saplings. The exercise was to help raise the awareness of biodiversity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Groups among our own employees and our contractors.

Swift Project Gas Networks Ireland supported Swift Conservation Ireland by commissioning the installation of swift nesting boxes and a call system at our Cork premises and at other nesting sites throughout the country, to support this vulnerable bird species. These nesting sites were established ahead of the 2023 swift birds breeding season.

Swift Conservation Ireland volunteers also delivered an information session to Gas Networks Ireland employees so they could identify and learn more about this beautiful bird.

Sustainable Tree and Hedge Management

Gas Networks Ireland recognises the importance of trees for the environment, biodiversity and carbon sequestration. While the company tries to avoid the felling of trees where possible, in some cases the removal of trees is necessary for safety or operational reasons.

The bee orchids growing at Gas Networks Ireland's National Services Centre in Dublin.

In order to fell trees in the most sustainable way possible, Gas Networks Ireland developed a bespoke Tree Felling and Hedge Cutting permit to manage the removal of trees and hedgerows in a controlled manner.

Gas Networks Ireland also developed the bespoke Carbon TreeSearch tool for use when tree felling is unavoidable. The purpose of this tool is to calculate the expected carbon sequestration of a tree over a period of 20  60 years and calculate how many native Irish trees should be planted to replace the felled trees.

Grass Management

Recently, Gas Networks Ireland reduced grass-cutting at all its infrastructure and office locations in Ireland, providing an enhanced habitat for pollinators. Thanks to these efforts, the bee orchids grew in the short meadows at the companys National Services Centre in Dublin.

Heritage Week To celebrate Heritage Week 2023, Gas Networks Ireland hosted two Bat Walk events at infrastructure locations in Co Dublin and Co Cork for our employees, families and friends to learn about the fascinating bats who these sites at nighttime and the importance of preserving these habitats to protect Irish bat populations.

www.gasnetworks.ie
The White House has hosted one of its biggest state dinners for Kenyan President William Ruto.

Thursdays dinner, which was tailored to the African leaders tastes, showcased two American types of music: gospel and country.

Guests arrived at a red carpet rolled out at the Booksellers area of the White House, decked out with red roses and hot pink orchids while Totos hit Africa played on the violin.

Invitees included actor LeVar Burton of Star Trek: The Next Generation fame, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and former President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary, the ex-secretary of state and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee, together with her former top aide Huma Abedin.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden welcome Kenyas President William Ruto and first lady Rachel Ruto to the White House (Susan Walsh/AP)

Other actors on the guest list were Wilmer Valderrama, Sean Penn and Michaela Coel. Democratic leaders included Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, who said she was looking forward to having all the conversations.

Singer-songwriter Don McLean arrived in an early wave of guests, as did Barbara Kingsolver, author of The Poisonwood Bible, set in Africa.

President Joe Biden expected up to 500 guests at the first White House state dinner for an African nation since 2008, the sixth and largest of the state dinners his administration has hosted.

The festivities are part of the administrations efforts to build ties with Africa after Mr Biden failed to keep a promise to visit the continent last year.

This week, he said he plans to visit in February, after Im re-elected  a show of optimism about his prospects in Novembers election.

President William Ruto and first lady Rachel Ruto are welcomed to the White House (Susan Walsh/AP)

The dinner comes at a delicate time for Washingtons relationship with Africa, following a coup in Niger where the military government has ordered US troops to withdraw from that country, and amid efforts by China and Russia to expand their African political and economic influence.

The Reverend Al Sharpton, a long-time leading Democratic voice and former presidential candidate, was asked while arriving about the presidents chances against presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump.

He responded that democracy is going to win in 24 while adding that Africa has not been properly recognised on the world stage, which made Thursday nights dinner especially important.

First Lady Jill Biden said the dinner entertainment was chosen to honour Mr Ruto and his wife, Rachel, for their love of gospel and country music.

Kenya last had a White House state dinner in 2003. No African nation has had one since President George W Bush honoured then Ghana President John Kufuor five years after that.

The Bidens hosted post-pandemic state dinners for France, South Korea and India, featuring the Biden administrations previous attendance high of nearly 400 guests. It was the same for Australia in October and Japan last month.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, four Russian sources told Reuters, saying he is prepared to fight on if Kyiv and the West do not respond.

Three of the sources, familiar with discussions in Putin's entourage, said the veteran Russian leader had expressed frustration to a small group of advisers about what he views as Western-backed attempts to stymie negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to rule out talks.

"Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war," said another of the four, a senior Russian source who has worked with Putin and has knowledge of top level conversations in the Kremlin.

He, like the others cited in this story, spoke on condition of anonymity given the matter's sensitivity.

For this account, Reuters spoke to a total of five people who work with or have worked with Putin at a senior level in the political and business worlds. The fifth source did not comment on freezing the war at the current frontlines.

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in response to a request for comment, said the Kremlin chief had repeatedly made clear Russia was open to dialogue to achieve its goals, saying the country did not want eternal war. Ukraine's foreign and defence ministries did not respond to questions.

The appointment last week of economist Andrei Belousov as Russia's defence minister was seen by some Western military and political analysts as placing the Russian economy on a permanent war footing in order to win a protracted conflict.

It followed sustained battlefield pressure and territorial advances by Russia in recent weeks.

However, the sources said that Putin, re-elected in March for a new six-year term, would rather use Russia's current momentum to put the war behind him. They did not directly comment on the new defence minister.

Based on their knowledge of conversations in the upper ranks of the Kremlin, two of the sources said Putin was of the view that gains in the war so far were enough to sell a victory to the Russian people.

Europe's biggest ground conflict since World War Two has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides and led to sweeping Western sanctions on Russia's economy.

Three sources said Putin understood any dramatic new advances would require another nationwide mobilisation, which he didn't want, with one source, who knows the Russian president, saying his popularity dipped after the first mobilisation in September 2022.

The national call up spooked part of the population in Russia, triggering hundreds of thousands of draft age men to leave the country. Polls showed Putins popularity falling by several points.

Peskov said Russia had no need for mobilisation and was instead recruiting volunteer contractors to the armed forces.

The prospect of a ceasefire, or even peace talks, currently seems remote.

Zelenskyy has repeatedly said peace on Putin's terms is a non-starter. He has vowed to retake lost territory, including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. He signed a decree in 2022 that formally declared any talks with Putin "impossible."

One of the sources predicted no agreement could happen while Zelenskyy was in power, unless Russia bypassed him and struck a deal with Washington. However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Kyiv last week, told reporters he did not believe Putin was interested in serious negotiations.

Swiss Talks

Ukraine is preparing for talks hosted by Switzerland next month aimed at unifying international opinion on how to end the war. The talks were convened at the initiative of Zelenskyy who has said Putin should not attend. Switzerland has not invited Russia.

Moscow has said the talks are not credible without it being there. Ukraine and Switzerland want Russian allies including China to attend.

Speaking in China on May 17, Putin said Ukraine may use the Swiss talks to get a broader group of countries to back Zelenskyys demand for a total Russian withdrawal, which Putin said would be an imposed condition rather than a serious peace negotiation.

The Swiss foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"We are ready for discussion. We never refused," Putin said in China.

The Kremlin says it does not comment on the progress of what it calls its special military operation in Ukraine, but has repeatedly said Moscow is open to the idea of talks based on "the new realities on the ground."

In response to questions for this story, a US State Department spokesperson said any initiative for peace must respect Ukraines territorial integrity, within its internationally recognised borders and described Russia as the sole obstacle to peace in Ukraine.

The Kremlin has yet to demonstrate any meaningful interest in ending its war, quite the opposite, the spokesperson said.

In the past, Kyiv has dismissed Russia's purported readiness to talk as an attempt to shift the blame onto it for the war.

Kyiv says Putin, whose team repeatedly denied he was planning a war before invading Ukraine in 2022, cannot be trusted to honour any deal.

Both Russia and Ukraine have also said they fear the other side would use any ceasefire to re-arm.

Kyiv and its Western backers are banking on a $61bn US aid package and additional European military aid to reverse what Zelenskyy described to Reuters this week as "one of the most difficult moments" of the full scale war.

As well as shortages of ammunition after US delays in approving the package, Ukraine has admitted it is struggling to recruit enough troops and last month lowered the age for men who can be drafted to 25 from 27.

Territory

Putin's insistence on locking in any battlefield gains in a deal is non-negotiable, all of the sources suggested.

Putin would, however, be ready to settle for what land he has now and freeze the conflict at the current front lines, four of the sources said.

"Putin will say that we won, that NATO attacked us and we kept our sovereignty, that we have a land corridor to Crimea, which is true," one of them said, giving their own analysis.

Freezing the conflict along current lines would leave Russia in possession of substantial chunks of four Ukrainian regions he formally incorporated into Russia in September 2022, but without full control of any of them.

Such an arrangement would fall short of the goals Moscow set for itself at the time, when it said the four of Ukraine's regions - Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson - now belonged to it in their entirety.

Peskov said that there could be no question of handing back the four regions which were now permanently part of Russia according to its own constitution.

Another factor playing into the Kremlin chief's view that the war should end is that the longer it drags on, the more battle-hardened veterans return to Russia, dissatisfied with post-war job and income prospects, potentially creating tensions in society, said one of the sources, who has worked with Putin.

'Russia will push further'

In February, three Russian sources told Reuters the United States rejected a previous Putin suggestion of a ceasefire to freeze the war.

In the absence of a ceasefire, Putin wants to take as much territory as possible to ratchet up pressure on Ukraine while seeking to exploit unexpected opportunities to acquire more, three of the sources said.

Russian forces control around 18% of Ukraine and this month thrust into the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

Putin is counting on Russia's large population compared to Ukraine to sustain superior manpower even without a mobilisation, bolstered by unusually generous pay packets for those who sign up.

"Russia will push further," the source who has worked with Putin said.

Putin will slowly conquer territories until Zelenskyy comes up with an offer to stop, the person said, saying the Russian leader had expressed the view to aides that the West would not provide enough weapons, sapping Ukraine's morale.

US and European leaders have said they will stand by Ukraine until its security sovereignty is guaranteed. NATO countries and allies say they are trying to accelerate deliveries of weapons.

Russia could end the war at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine, instead of continuing to launch brutal attacks against Ukraines cities, ports, and people every day, the State Department said in response to a question about weapons supplies.

All five sources said Putin had told advisers he had no designs on NATO territory, reflecting his public comments on the matter. Two of the sources cited Russian concerns about the growing danger of escalation with the West, including nuclear escalation, over the Ukraine standoff.

The State Department said the United States had not adjusted its nuclear posture, nor seen any sign that Russia was preparing to use a nuclear weapon.

We continue to monitor the strategic environment and remain ready, the spokesperson said.

- Reuters
The French prosecutor for New Caledonia said a police officer has been taken into custody after shooting and killing a man when the officer was set upon by a group of about 15 people.

Yves Dupas says the officer is believed to have fired one shot, killing a 48-year-old man on Friday afternoon.
A five-year-old boy who was born without a left hand has become the youngest in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm, making him feel like a superhero.

Jordan Marottas mother Ashley Marotta said the Iron Man-style arm was an instant confidence boost for her son and he had rushed back to his school to show his friends.

The custom-made, 3D printed prosthetic is produced by Bristol-based Open Bionics, which was founded in 2014 and launched four clinics in America in the last year.

Jordan Marotta, five, has become the youngest person in the world to get a bionic Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

Jordan, of Long Island, New York state, is now the youngest ever owner of one of the firms Hero Arms.

The prosthetic uses special sensors which detect muscular contractions and turn them into bionic hand movements.

Most children with Hero Arms are aged seven years old or above, but the firm said Jordans size for his age and his high IQ  meaning he was easy to teach how to use the Hero Arm  meant he could have one sooner.

The previous youngest Hero Arm user was a six-year-old from Los Angeles.

Jordans mother had been following Open Bionics on Facebook and contacted the firm when they opened a clinic in New York.

Jordan Marotta is able to grip his scooter with his new Hero Arm (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

The Hero Arm was paid for by insurance.

Ashley Marotta said she was so grateful to Open Bionics.

Initially we were told he was too young and we convinced Open Bionics to see us and luckily he picked it up right away, she said.

As soon as we left with Jordans Hero Arm, he was running around with so much confidence trying to hail New York taxis.

It was an instant confidence boost; the Hero Arm really makes him feel like a superhero and he is superhero obsessed.

He then wanted to rush back to his school to show his teachers and friends.

Jordan Marotta could not wait to show his bionic arm to his schoolfriends (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

He was so happy and so excited and so was everyone at his school.

As a mum, you just want your child to be happy, and he is generally happy and resilient, but (after getting the Hero Arm) he was on top of the world and glowing.

He could not have been happier or more excited and hes the same today.

Its amazing.

Jordan had only used one different prosthetic before but stopped using it because of the lack of functionality.

Since getting his Hero Arm this week, he has been able to grab his scooter handles and go for a ride.

The prosthetic uses special sensors which detect muscular contractions and turns them into bionic hand movements (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

He is so excited to use it and to be able to control the fingers and grab two objects now, said mother-of-three Ms Marotta.

Were excited to see him get used to reaching with two hands and playing with his superhero toys with two hands.

Daniel Green, the clinician who delivered the Hero Arm and training to Jordan at Open Bionics in New York, said it was a pleasure to work with him and meet his family.

He said Jordan was very smart, had a great personality and was really excited about his Hero Arm and couldnt wait to show his friends.

Open Bionics is a British company delivering bionic hands and partial hand prosthetics globally for amputees.

It describes itself as the only company in the world making multi-articulating hands small and light enough for children as young as Jordan.

Bristol-based Open Bionics makes the Hero Arm and Jordan received his at the firms clinic in New York (Ashley Marotta/ PA)

It is also the only company in the world able to produce bionic arms from the Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney universes thanks to a long-term collaboration with The Walt Disney Company.

The firm has fitted amputees with Hero Arms in Ukraine, Germany, and Australia.

Samantha Payne, co-founder at Open Bionics, said: Were so happy for Jordan and cant wait to see how he puts his new Iron Man arm to work.
Paula Vennells sobbed as she declared her love for the Post Office during a fierce grilling at the Horizon IT inquiry in the UK.

The 65-year-old has appeared visibly emotional on all three days as she gave evidence to the probe, and was forced to compose herself after she was accused of being someone who couldnt be bothered to find a problem that would devastate the Post Office.

During a tearful episode at Aldwych House in central London, Ms Vennells admitted she had let subpostmasters down, but claimed her only motivation was for the best for the Post Office and for the hundreds of postmasters that I met.

Ms Vennells was taking part in a third day of evidence at the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry at Aldwych House, central London (Jonathan Brady/PA)

She denied leading the Post Office through deception and manipulation, as she told the probe: I was trying to address a culture in the organisation which I had found to be command and control, where people couldnt speak their minds and they couldnt speak up.

I was trying to encourage people to work in that way. I did not deal in deception.

Ms Vennells also claimed she was noted within the Post Office for caring about subpostmasters.

She added: One of my huge regrets in this is that I did not do that for the subpostmasters affected in this way and that will be with me.

Under questioning from Sam Stein KC, a lawyer on behalf of a number of subpostmasters, she said she believed she was asking the right questions about the Horizon system but accepted she may not have, as she was not an IT expert.

Mr Stein said: Ms Vennells, youre not stupid. You studied French, Russian, business as a degree. You then worked for well-known companies in the UK. Whitbread, Argos, others.

You rose through the ranks of the Post Office to become its CEO. You were pushing forward under network transformation. Youve been quoted as saying that you want and you see a future of the Post Office opening up more branches, 30,000 branches in the future.

Members of the Justice For Subpostmaster Alliance protest outside Aldwych House in central London (Jonathan Brady/PA)

That was you, Ms Vennells, at the time. A vision you were expressing to everyone that asked about what you could see for the future. And yet here all of these facts were adding up to there being a real problem, a really difficult problem to chew over, right the way through 2013.

And you failed, didnt you? You failed to get into this, on your account, you failed to ask the right questions. You couldnt be bothered, could you Ms Vennells? The risk was too great. Looking under that rock, youre going to find a problem, its going to devastate the Post Office. Ruin it. And you couldnt let that happen, could you, Ms Vennells?

The former chief executive said: I loved the Post Office, after which she grew emotional and paused to compose herself.

Eventually, she continued: I worked as hard as I possibly could to deliver the best Post Office for the UK.

It would have been wonderful to have 30,000 Post Office branches, that would have been the best outcome ever, to have  more Post Offices in more communities.

What I failed to do  and I have made this clear previously  is, I did not recognise  the imbalance of power between the institution and the individual. And I let these people down. I am very aware of that.

And we should have had better governance in place. We should have had better data reporting in place that meant we could see what was happening to individual postmasters and to the system. That was not the case.

At no time did I put the Post Office over the cases that were brought forwards. I worked as hard as I could and to the best of my ability and I am very sorry that I was not able to find out what the inquiry has found out.

Ms Vennells became emotional when she told the inquiry she loved the Post Office (Jonathan Brady/PA)

I dont know today how much wasnt told to me but my only motivation was for the best for the Post Office and for the hundreds of postmasters that I met, and I regret deeply that I let these people down.

The ordained priest also admitted she had no-one to blame but herself for what happened during the Horizon scandal.

She told the hearing there are no words that will make the sorrow and what people have gone through any better.

Under questioning from Edward Henry KC, another lawyer representing a number of subpostmasters, she said she didnt always take the right path.

She told the hearing she lost all employment since the Court of Appeal passed a judgment which ultimately led to a number of subpostmasters convictions being overturned.

Beginning his questioning, Mr Henry said: There were so many forks in the road, but you always took the wrong path, didnt you?

Ms Vennells said: It was an extraordinarily complex undertaking and the Post Office and I didnt always take the right path, Im very clear about that.

Questioned on whether she had anyone to blame but herself during the scandal, Ms Vennells said: Absolutely. Where I made mistakes and where I made the wrong calls  where I had information and I made the wrong calls, yes, of course.

Mr Henry went on: What Im going to suggest to you is that whatever you did was deliberate, considered and calculated. No-one deceived you, no-one misled you. You set the agenda and the tone for the business.

Ms Vennells said: I did my very best through this, and it wasnt good enough, and that is a regret I carry with me.

More than 700 subpostmasters were prosecuted by the Post Office and handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as Fujitsus faulty Horizon IT system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches.

Hundreds of subpostmasters are still awaiting compensation despite the Government announcing that those who have had convictions quashed are eligible for 600,000 (704,100) payouts.
The top United Nations court has ordered Israel to halt its military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Israel insists it has the right to defend itself from Hamas militants and is unlikely to comply with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling.

After the ruling, Israel finance minister Bezalel Smotrich said those who demand that Israel stop the war are demanding that it should decide to cease to exist and Israel will not agree to that.

The Palestinian Authority spokesperson said it welcomed the decision while Israeli and South African legal teams both declined to comment.

A Hamas official also welcomed the decision but also said it was not enough and urged an end to Israel's offensive on all of Gaza.

Speaking on Friday, Taoiseach Simon Harris said the fighting in Gaza must stop regardless of any ruling.

"I think it's really important that all countries abide by the rulings of the international criminal court. That is why we have international courts, that's why we sign up," he said.

"But regardless of any ruling - and I am very respectful of the ruling - we do not need a court ruling to tell us that what is happening in Gaza, the military incursion that may well happen in Rafah cannot. It needs to stop."

The order by the International Court of Justice ICJ further ratchets up international pressure on an increasingly isolated Israel to rein in its war on Hamas in Gaza.

Fridays decision marked the third time this year the 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders seeking to reduce the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza.

While orders are legally binding, the court has no police to enforce them.

Fridays decision marked the third time this year the 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders seeking to reduce the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza. File picture: AP Photo/Patrick Post

Criticism of Israels conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing  even from its closest ally, the United States, which warned against an invasion of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought shelter from fighting elsewhere.

This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognise a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another UN court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with Hamas officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under heavy pressure at home to end the war, which was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people, most civilians, and taking some 250 captive.

Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing that time is running out.

While the ruling by the ICJ is a blow to Israels international standing, the court does not have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Israel signalled it, too, would brush off an ICJ order to stop its operations.

No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, Avi Hyman, the government spokesperson, said in a press briefing on Thursday.

The courts president, Nawaf Salam, read out the ruling, as a small group of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside.

A view of the Peace Palace, which houses the International Court of Justice, or World Court, in The Hague, Netherlands. Picture: AP Photo/Patrick Post, File

Fears expressed earlier with respect to the developments in Rafah have materialised and that the humanitarian situation is now to be characterised as disastrous, the ruling said.

The court did not call for a full ceasefire throughout Gaza as South Africa had requested at hearings last week.

The ceasefire request is part of a case filed late last year by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations.

The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

South Africas foreign minister, Naledi Pandor, said the countrys allegation that a genocide is under way is getting stronger and stronger by the day.

We are really pleased that the court has given very serious consideration to the matters that we put before it and has affirmed that an urgent decision is needed from the court to pause this onslaught against innocent Palestinian people, she told South African state broadcaster SABC, adding that it is now up to the UN Security Council to determine how to protect the Palestinians.

The court has already found that Israels military operations pose a real and imminent risk to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Israels offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians.

The operation has obliterated entire areas, hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes, and pushed parts of the territory into famine.

This may well be the last chance for the court to act, Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh, who is part of South Africas legal team, told judges last week.

Israel rejects the claims by South Africa, a nation with historic ties to the Palestinian people.

Israel takes extraordinary measures in order to minimize the harm to civilians in Gaza, Tamar Kaplan-Tourgeman, a member of Israels legal team, told the court last week.

In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it can to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive.

Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh is part of South Africas legal team. Picture: Palestine_UN Twitter/X

In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

Earlier on Friday, the Israeli army said the bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7 have been recovered overnight from Gaza.

Military officials said the bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez have been identified and their families have been informed.

The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

The ruling can be read in full here.

Also on Friday, the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution that strongly condemns attacks on humanitarian workers and UN personnel, and demands that all combatants protect them in accordance with international law.

The vote was 14-0 with Russia abstaining.

The Swiss-sponsored resolution expresses grave concern at the growing number of attacks and threats against UN and humanitarian personnel along with the continuing disregard and violations of international humanitarian law by combatants.

The draft resolution did not single out any conflict, but it was voted on as battles rage in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and many other hotspots around the world.

Can ICJ rulings be enforced?

ICJ rulings cannot be enforced and can be ignored.

In March 2022, the court ordered Russia to immediately halt its military campaign in Ukraine.

The ruling against Israel could, however, damage the countrys international reputation and set a legal precedent.

It could add weight to possible legal challenges, such as demands for arms embargoes as numerous states have provisions against selling arms to states that might use them in ways that violate international law.

- Additional reporting by Reuters
A British woman and three children linked to the militant so-called Islamic State group in Syria were handed over to a UK delegation that visited the region this week, Syrian Kurdish-led authorities said on Friday.

The handover, which took place on Wednesday, is the latest in a push to repatriate people from al-Hol and Roj camps in northeastern Syria that house tens of thousands, mostly wives and children of Islamic State (IS) militants but also supporters of the extremist group.

The Kurdish authorities did not release the names of the four, saying only they were held at Roj camp before the handover.

According to a statement, a delegation led by Britains special representative for Syria, Ann Snow, visited northeastern Syria, where they discussed with the Kurdish authorities the ongoing threat that IS still poses, five years after the extremists lost the last sliver of land they once controlled in large parts of Iraq and Syria.

Elham Ahmad, the co-chair for foreign relations in the regional Syrian Kurdish administration, said radical solutions should be found for the problem of terrorism.

Thousands of IS members and suspects held in jails in northeast Syria should face justice, she added.

In 2014, IS declared a caliphate in large parts of Iraq and Syria and attracted tens of thousands of supporters from around the world. The extremists were defeated by a US-led coalition in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019.

Tens of thousands of people linked to the group were taken to al-Hol camp, close to the Iraqi border.

Over the past five years about 30,000 people, mostly Iraqis and Syrians, have left al-Hol camp and been repatriated. More than 2,000 are also held in Roj camp.

Earlier this month, the United States said it repatriated 11 of its citizens from al-Hol and Roj camps, the largest group to date that Washington has taken out of the two sprawling camps.

Earlier in May, more than 200 Syrians were taken from al-Hol to their hometowns in Syrias eastern province that borders Iraq.
A Sydney judge has ruled that former a US Marine Corps pilot can be extradited to the United States on allegations that he illegally trained Chinese aviators, leaving the attorney general as Duggans last hope of remaining in Australia.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss ordered Boston-born Daniel Duggan, 55, to remain in custody awaiting extradition.

While his lawyers said they had no legal grounds to challenge the magistrates ruling that Duggan was eligible for extradition, they will make submissions to Attorney General Mark Dreyfus on why the pilot should not be surrendered.

The attorney will give us sufficient time, Im quite sure, to ventilate all of the issues that under the Extradition Act are not capable of being run in an Australian court, Duggans lawyer, Bernard Collaery, told reporters outside court.

We respectfully ask the attorney general to take another look at this case and to bring my husband home

Mr Dreyfuss office said in a statement the government does not comment on extradition matters.

Duggans wife and mother of his six children, Saffrine Duggan, said the extradition court hearing was simply about ticking boxes.

Now, we respectfully ask the attorney general to take another look at this case and to bring my husband home, she told a gathering of reporters and supporters outside court.

The pilot has spent 19 months in maximum security prison since he was arrested in 2022 at his family home in the state of New South Wales.

In a 2016 indictment from the US District Court in Washington, DC, unsealed in late 2022, prosecutors say Duggan conspired with others to provide training to Chinese military pilots in 2010 and 2012, and possibly at other times, without applying for an appropriate licence.

Prosecutors say Duggan received about nine payments totalling around 88,000 Australian dollars (47,875) and international travel from another conspirator for what was sometimes described as personal development training.

Duggan served in the US Marines for 12 years before emmigrating to Australia in 2002. In January 2012, he gained Australian citizenship, choosing to give up his US citizenship in the process.

The indictment says Duggan travelled to the United States, China and South Africa, and provided training to Chinese pilots in South Africa.

Duggan has denied the allegations, saying they were political posturing by the US, which unfairly singled him out.
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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.
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  The House Committee on Education and the Workplace, headed by the increasingly unhinged Rep. Virginia Palmieri Foxx (R-NC), held another Stalin-style show trial on Thursday, grilling the presidents of Northwestern University, Rutgers University, and the University of California Los Angeles about how they dealt with campus student protests against the Gaza atrocity. The clown car on Capitol Hill even tried to pick up yours truly. (Yes.)

Foxx and her MAGA colleagues are much more concerned about cracking the heads of principled undergraduates than about the 15,000 dead children in Gaza.

One of the presidents on the hot seat was Northwesterns Michael Schill, who had dealt with the protests about as well as a person in his position could have, negotiating an agreement with the demonstrating students that included providing for two-year visiting fellowships for two Palestinian faculty and full scholarships for five Palestinian undergraduates. When I was an undergraduate, I had a full scholarship to Northwestern, so I dont see what is wrong with that.

Schill, a descendant of Holocaust survivors, had to put up with angry Christian neo-fascists telling him how to run the university and keep Jewish students safe. Many of the university protesters have been idealistic young Jews from movements like Jewish Voice for Peace. Schill underlined that he had set up a commission on antisemitism on campus.

I can say, since the crackpot Rep. Tim Walberg spilled the beans, that the committee at Northwestern, which was concerned to include perspectives on Islamophobia and anti-Arab bigotry, asked me to give a presentation.

Walberg confronted Schill on my testimony, accusing me of being an antisemite. Since I am the director of the Arab and Muslim American Studies Program at the University of Michigan and have spent 52 years studying Arab and Islamic Culture (I started first year Arabic in 1972), I have the credentials, if I do say so myself, to speak about anti-Arab and anti-Muslim hate. Walberg does not, of course. In fact, he is a notorious racist against those very groups.

But lets get this straight. A commission on fighting antisemitism and other forms of bigotry at Northwestern asked me to make a presentation to them, and I did. And my testimony against antisemitism and other forms of bigotry is being used by Walberg to prove that Im an antisemite?

I actually have written about Walberg, possibly the most bigoted member of Congress, which is saying a lot. I pointed out a couple of months ago,

US Representative Tim Walberg (R-MI), a former pastor, called this week for a genocide, the Final Solution of the Palestinian Problem . . .

At a meeting in Dundee with constituents on March 25, Walberg said that President Biden had spoken of our need to get aid into Gaza. He said, I dont think we should. I dont think any of our aid that goes to Israel, to support our greatest ally, arguably maybe in the world, to the feet of Hamas, and Iran, and Russia. Probably North Korea is in there and China, too  with them, helping Hamas. We shouldnt be spending a dime on humanitarian aid. It should be like Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Get it over quick.



Nuking Gaza, by Juan Cole, Digital, Dream / Dreamland v. 3 / IbisPaint, 2024.

Unfortunately for Walberg, who likely talks like this all the time with his inner circle of fellow sociopaths, his remarks were recorded.

Michigan Congressman Tim Walberg, pastor and "good" Christian, talks about his solution for #Gaza: Give it the Hiroshima treatment. "Get it over quick." A sitting US Rep in a secret town hall feels comfortable musing positively about genocide. Listen. Share.#DemCastMI #DemCast pic.twitter.com/6BQGfWMVjZ  JMS  #DemCastMI (@WhitchMI) March 30, 2024

Walberg has also visited Uganda, which made being gay a capital crime, urging its government to continue to kill gay people. And he is part of the movement to take reproductive choice away from women so as to keep them barefoot, pregnant and firmly under the control of men like himself.

Everybody should send money to the Democratic Party challenger to Walberg in Michigans fifth district, former steel worker and union stalwart Libbi Urban . I know I will.

Also if you want to help out Informed Comment, which appears to have upset the MAGA snowflakes in Congress, heres how:

Personal checks should be made out to Juan Cole and sent to me at: Juan Cole

P. O. Box 4218,

Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2548

USA

(Remember, make the checks out to Juan Cole or they cant be cashed)

So why did Walberg say I am an antisemite? He quoted me as claiming that Israel quote, was founded on a formal racial supremacist principle that Jews must rule the state, and that, quote, The only thing that Palestinians and their sympathizers can do to make Zionists happy is to bend over and allow themselves to be royally screwed.'

Of course, Walberg wasnt actually alleging that I had said anything antisemitic, only that I criticized Israel, and MAGA is trying to equate the two, as though criticizing Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is equivalent to bigotry toward Chicanos.

In 2018 I wrote a column on the Israeli Parliaments passage of a law that vested sovereignty solely in the Jewish citizens of Israel, excluding the 21% who are of Palestinian heritage. I pointed out that this would be like the US Congress passing a law that sovereignty in the United States is vested solely in white Christians. (At the time I thought it far fetched,, but maybe Elise Stefanik, Virginia Foxx and Tim Walberg have such plans).

So I wrote, 2018 was in many ways a turning point for the position of Israel in the system of Western, liberal, capitalist democracies. It had long sat uneasily among France, Britain, and the United States, inasmuch as it was founded on a formal racial supremacist principle that Jews must rule the state. Racism is important in the other democracies, as well, but it is not typically enshrined in the constitution. The French Rights of Man mentioned nothing about race. Anyone who knows anything about the thinking of founders of Israel such as David Ben Gurion, whom I am sure that Walberg has not read, knows that he precisely held that Israel would be a state for Jews where Jews must rule.

As for the second quote, it was in a 2015 column in which I complained about CNN firing Mark Lamont Hill. I pointed to the success of letter-writing and smear campaigns by pro-Israel groups in disallowing a compassionate consideration of the plight of Palestinians. In that column, I wrote:

This success is not because Jews are powerful. First of all, only a minority of Jewish Americans sympathize with the far right politics of the Likud Party. Jon Stewart used to complain tongue in cheek that if Jews were so powerful he ought to have been able to get off basic cable and have a network show. The success is because right wing white people are so powerful, and many of them still have a latent belief in the goodness of colonialism and in the White Mans Burden. Melanie McAlister argued brilliantly that for right wing Christian whites in the United States, the Israeli domination of the Palestinians is a symbolic reenactment of the Vietnam War, in which this time the white people (as they characterize themselves) win instead of losing. I.e., Israel functions as did those old Rambo movies.

I think my point is borne out by the spectacle of Elise Stefanik, a proponent of the antisemitic and fascist Great Replacement Theory, strafing poor Michael Schill and weaponizing antisemitism for MAGA white Christian nationalist purposes.

I then went on to write,

One of the standard Israeli propaganda techniques is to equate any resistance to their frankly fascist techniques of social control imposed on the colonized Palestinians with terrorism. There is nothing new or strange about this. The British in India considered Gandhi a terrorist. Of course the colonial state views opposition as terrorism. That same dishonest columnist at The Forward managed to reconfigure Hills activism as violence. The fact is that international law recognizes the right of occupied peoples to mount even violent resistance to occupation militaries. But that isnt what Hill was calling for. And then, any violence is then twisted around as violence toward civilians. And there you have it. Terrorism. The golden magic circle of Hasbara (Zionist propaganda) gives us: resistance= violence= terrorism. The only thing the Palestinians and their sympathizers can do to make Zionists happy is to bend over and allow themselves to be royally screwed or better yet, allow themselves to be deported from their homeland of millennia at the hands of the Russian and Polish immigrants.

As we speak, the Polish prime minister of Israel is trying to deport 2.2 million indigenous Palestinians from Gaza by making the Strip uninhabitable.

I think if you read the whole column it is pretty obvious it isnt about Jews at all. It is about virulent right wing Zionism, which now rules Israel in an increasingly fascist manner.

The American right wing is now trying to equate criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, and if you let them do that, you may as well kiss the First Amendment goodbye.
( Tomdispatch.com )  There are constants in this world  occurrences you can count on. Sunrises and sunsets. The tides. That, day by day, people will be born and others will die.

Some of them will die in peace, but others, of course, in violence and agony.

For hundreds of years, the U.S. military has been killing people. Its been a constant of our history. Another constant has been American military personnel killing civilians, whether Native Americans, Filipinos, Nicaraguans, Haitians, Japanese, Koreans, Vietnamese, Cambodians, Laotians, Afghans, Iraqis, Syrians, Yemenis, and on and on. And theres something else thats gone along with those killings: a lack of accountability for them.

Late last month, the Department of Defense (DoD) released its congressionally mandated annual accounting of civilian casualties caused by U.S. military operations globally. The report is due every May 1st and, in the latest case, the Pentagon even beat that deadline by a week. There was only one small problem: it was the 2022 report. You know, the one that was supposed to be made public on May 1, 2023. And not only was that report a year late, but the 2023 edition, due May 1, 2024, has yet to be seen.

Whether that 2023 report, when it finally arrives, will say much of substance is also doubtful. In the 2022 edition, the Pentagon exonerated itself of harming noncombatants. DoD has assessed that U.S. military operations in 2022 resulted in no civilian casualties, reads the 12-page document. It follows hundreds of years of silence about, denials of, and willful disregard toward civilians slain purposely or accidentally by the U.S. military and a long history of failures to make amends in the rare cases where the Pentagon has admitted to killing innocents.

Moral Imperatives

The Department recognizes that our efforts to mitigate and respond to civilian harm respond to both strategic and moral imperatives, reads the Pentagons new 2022 civilian casualty report.

And its latest response to those moral imperatives was typical. The Defense Department reported that it had made no ex gratia payments  amends offered to civilians harmed in its operations  during 2022. That follows exactly one payment made in 2021 and zero in 2020.

Whether any payments were made in 2023 is still, of course, a mystery. I asked Lisa Lawrence, the Pentagon spokesperson who handles civilian harm issues, why the 2023 report was late and when to expect it. A return receipt shows that she read my email, but she failed to offer an answer.

Her reaction is typical of the Pentagon on the subject.

A 2020 study of post-9/11 civilian casualty incidents by the Center for Civilians in Conflict and Columbia Law Schools Human Rights Institute found that most went uninvestigated. When they did come under official scrutiny, American military witnesses were interviewed while civilians  victims, survivors, family members  were almost totally ignored, severely compromising the effectiveness of investigations, according to that report.

In the wake of such persistent failings, investigative reporters and human rights groups have increasingly documented Americas killing of civilians, its underreporting of noncombatant casualties, and its failures of accountability in Afghanistan, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, and elsewhere.

During the first 20 years of the war on terror, the U.S. conducted more than 91,000 airstrikes across seven major conflict zones and killed up to 48,308 civilians, according to a 2021 analysis by Airwars, a U.K.-based air-strike monitoring group.

Between 2013 and 2020, for example, the U.S. carried out seven separate attacks in Yemen  six drone strikes and one raid  that killed 36 members of the intermarried Al Ameri and Al Taisy families. A quarter of them were children between the ages of three months and 14 years old. The survivors have been waiting for years for an explanation as to why they were repeatedly targeted.

In 2018, Adel Al Manthari, a civil servant in the Yemeni government, and four of his cousins  all civilians  were traveling by truck when an American missile slammed into their vehicle. Three of the men were killed instantly. Another died days later in a local hospital. Al Manthari was critically injured. Complications resulting from his injuries nearly killed him in 2022. He beseeched the U.S. government to dip into the millions of dollars appropriated by Congress to compensate victims of American attacks, but they ignored his pleas. His limbs and life were eventually saved by the kindness of strangers via a crowdsourced GoFundMe campaign.

The same year that Al Manthari was maimed in Yemen, a U.S. drone strike in Somalia killed at least three, and possibly five, civilians, including 22-year-old Luul Dahir Mohamed and her 4-year-old daughter Mariam Shilow Muse. The next year, a U.S. military investigation acknowledged that a woman and child were killed in that attack but concluded that their identities might never be known. Last year, I traveled to Somalia and spoke with their relatives. For six years, the family has tried to contact the American government, including through U.S. Africa Commands online civilian casualty reporting portal without ever receiving a reply.

In December 2023, following an investigation by The Intercept, two dozen human rights organizations  14 Somali and 10 international groups  called on Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to compensate Luul and Mariams family for their deaths. This year, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representatives Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), and Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) have also called on the Defense Department to make amends.

A 2021 investigation by New York Times reporter Azmat Khan revealed that the American air war in Iraq and Syria was marked by flawed intelligence and inaccurate targeting, resulting in the deaths of many innocents. Out of 1,311 military reports analyzed by Khan, only one cited a possible violation of the rules of engagement. None included a finding of wrongdoing or suggested a need for disciplinary action, while fewer than a dozen condolence payments were made. The U.S.-led coalition eventually admitted to killing 1,410 civilians during the war in Iraq and Syria. Airwars, however, puts the number at 2,024.

Several of the attacks detailed by Khan were brought to the Defense Departments attention in 2022 but, according to their new report, the Pentagon failed to take action. Joanna Naples-Mitchell, director of the nonprofit Zomia Centers Redress Program, which helps survivors of American air strikes submit requests for compensation, and Annie Shiel, U.S. advocacy director with the Center for Civilians in Conflict, highlighted several of these cases in a recent Just Security article.

In June 2022, for instance, the Redress Program submitted requests for amends from the Pentagon on behalf of two families in Mosul, Iraq, harmed in an April 29, 2016, air strike reportedly targeting an Islamic State militant who was unharmed in the attack. Khan reported that, instead, Ziad Kallaf Awad, a college professor, was killed and Hassan Aleiwi Muhammad Sultan, then 10 years old, was left wheelchair-bound. The Pentagon had indeed admitted that civilian casualties resulted from the strike in a 2016 press release.

In September 2022, the Redress Program also submitted ex gratia requests on behalf of six families in Mosul, all of them harmed by a June 15, 2016, air strike also investigated by Khan. Naples-Mitchel and Shiel note that Iliyas Ali Abd Ali, then running a fruit stand near the site of the attack, lost his right leg and hearing in one ear. Two brothers working in an ice cream shop were also injured, while a man standing near that shop was killed. That same year, the Pentagon did confirm that the strike had resulted in civilian casualties.

However, almost eight years after acknowledging civilian harm in those Mosul cases and almost two years after the Redress Program submitted the claims to the Defense Department, the Pentagon has yet to offer amends.

Getting to Yes

While the U.S. military has long been killing civilians  in massacres by ground troops, air strikes and even, in August 1945, nuclear attacks  compensating those harmed has never been a serious priority.

General John Black Jack Pershing did push to adopt a system to pay claims by French civilians during World War I and the military in World War II found that paying compensation for harm to civilians had a pronounced stabilizing effect. The modern military reparations system, however, dates only to the 1960s.

During the Vietnam War, providing solatia was a way for the military to offer reparations for civilian injuries or deaths caused by U.S. operations without having to admit any guilt. In 1968, the going rate for an adult life was $33. Children merited just half that.

In 1973, a B-52 Stratofortress dropped 30 tons of bombs on the Cambodian town of Neak Luong, killing hundreds of civilians and wounding hundreds more. The next of kin of those killed, according to press reports, were promised about $400 each. Considering that, in many cases, a familys primary breadwinner had been lost, the sum was low. It was only the equivalent of about four years of earnings for a rural Cambodian. By comparison, a one-plane sortie, like the one that devastated Neak Luong, cost about $48,000. And that B-52 bomber itself then cost about $8 million. Worse yet, a recent investigation found that the survivors did not actually receive the promised $400. In the end, the value American forces placed on the dead of Neak Luong came to just $218 each.

Back then, the United States kept its low-ball payouts in Cambodia a secret. Decades later, the U.S. continues to thwart transparency and accountability when it comes to civilian lives.

In June 2023, I asked Africa Command to answer detailed questions about its law-of-war and civilian-casualty policies and requested interviews with officials versed in such matters. Despite multiple follow-ups, Courtney Dock, the commands deputy director of public affairs, has yet to respond. This year-long silence stands in stark contrast to the Defense Departments trumpeting of new policies and initiatives for responding to civilian harm and making amends.

In 2022, the Pentagon issued a 36-page Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, written at the direction of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. The plan provides a blueprint for improving how the Pentagon addresses the subject. The plan requires military personnel to consider potential harm to civilians in any air strike, ground raid, or other type of combat.

Late last year, the Defense Department also issued its long-awaited Instruction on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response, which established the Pentagons policies, responsibilities, and procedures for mitigating and responding to civilian harm. The document, mandated under the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act, and approved by Austin, directs the military to acknowledge civilian harm resulting from U.S. military operations and respond to individuals and communities affected by U.S. military operations, including expressing condolences and providing ex gratia payments to next of kin.

But despite $15 million allocated by Congress since 2020 to provide just such payments and despite members of Congress repeatedly calling on the Pentagon to make amends for civilian harm, it has announced just one such payment in the years since.

Naples-Mitchel and Shiel point out that the Defense Department has a projected budget of $849.8 billion for fiscal year 2025 and the $3 million set aside annually to pay for civilian casualty claims is just 0.00035% of that sum. Yet for the civilians who have waited years for acknowledgment of the most painful day of their lives, its anything but small, they write. The military has what it needs to begin making payments and reckoning with past harms, from the policy commitment, to the funding, to the painstaking requests and documentation from civilian victims. All they have to do now is say yes.

On May 10th, I asked Lisa Lawrence, the Pentagon spokesperson, if the U.S. would say yes and if not, why not.

Thank you for reaching out, she replied. You can expect to hear from me as soon as I have more to offer.

Lawrence has yet to offer anything.

Copyright 2024 Nick Turse
Israel launched devastating air strikes on Gaza Thursday, while also expressing readiness to resume stalled talks on a truce and hostage release deal with Hamas to pause the war raging since October 7.

The Gaza Strip's civil defence agency said two pre-dawn air strikes had killed 26 people, including 15 children, in Gaza City.

Agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal said one strike hit a family house, killing 16 people, in the Al-Daraj area, and another killed 10 people inside a mosque compound.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.

Fierce street battles also raged in Gaza's Jabalia and Rafah where the armed wings of Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad said they had fired mortar barrages at Israeli troops.

International pressure for a ceasefire has mounted on Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as three European countries said Wednesday they would recognise a Palestinian state.

The week started with the International Criminal Court's prosecutor seeking arrest warrants on war crimes charges against Netanyahu and his defence minister as well as three Hamas leaders.

Israel has angrily rejected those moves, voicing "disgust" over the ICC request and labelling any recognition of Palestinian statehood a "reward for terrorism".

Senior foreign ministry official Jacob Blitstein told the envoys of Ireland, Norway and Spain on Thursday that there will be "serious consequences" for their relations with Israel after they recognise the State of Palestine next week.

But domestic pressure has also risen as supporters of hostages trapped in Gaza again rallied outside Netanyahu's office, passionately demanding a deal to bring them home.

A newly released video showed five female Israeli soldiers, tied up and some with bloodied faces, in the hands of Palestinian militants during the attack more than seven months ago.

The three-minute clip, taken from a militant's body camera footage, was released by the Hostage and Missing Families Forum on Wednesday after the Israeli army lifted censorship on it.

"The footage reveals the violent, humiliating and traumatising treatment the girls endured on the day of their abduction, their eyes filled with raw terror," the forum said.

Netanyahu vowed to continue fighting Hamas to "ensure what we have seen tonight never happens again".

But his office also said that the war cabinet had asked the Israeli negotiating team "to continue negotiations for the return of the hostages".

- 'Not smashing into Rafah' -

The previous round of truce talks, involving US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators, ended shortly after Israel launched its attack on Gaza's far southern city of Rafah early this month.

Israel went ahead with the assault on the last city in Gaza to be entered by its ground troops in defiance of global opposition, including from top ally the United States.

Israel has since ordered mass evacuations from Rafah, and the UN says more than 800,000 people have fled.

"We're not smashing into Rafah, we're operating carefully and precisely," armed forces spokesman Daniel Hagari said.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that so far the Rafah operation had been "more targeted and limited" than feared and "has not involved major military operations into the heart of dense urban areas".

But he stopped short of saying that Israel had addressed US concerns, adding that Washington was closely watching ongoing Israeli actions.

His Israeli counterpart Tzachi Hanegbi has meanwhile given a bleak assessment of the war to a meeting of parliament's foreign affairs and defence committee, according to a report by Israel's Channel 13.

He reportedly said that Israel has "not achieved any of the strategic aims of the war -- not conditions for a hostage deal; we haven't toppled Hamas; and we haven't allowed residents of the (Gaza) periphery to safely return home".

- 'Explosions and gunfire' -

The bloodiest ever Gaza war broke out after Hamas's unprecedented attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Militants also took 252 hostages, 124 of whom remain in Gaza, including 37 the army says are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 35,800 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

Heavy fighting raged again in Gaza, where the military said troops in Rafah had "dismantled a number of tunnel shafts and launchers in the area, and eliminated several terrorists during close-quarters encounters".

Urban combat has also flared again in northern areas, including Jabalia, which Israeli forces first entered several months ago.

"We hear nothing but the sound of explosions and gunfire," said Mahmud al-Sharif, 31, in Jabalia's adjacent refugee camp.

Doctor Mohammad Saleh, the acting director of Al-Awda hospital, one of just two in northern Gaza that the UN says are still functioning, said it was under Israeli siege for a fifth straight day.

"Soldiers are present in the hospital's courtyard and in nearby houses," he said, adding that there was "continuous gunfire and shelling" towards it.

The Gaza interior ministry said that senior Hamas commander Diaa al-Din al-Sharafa had been killed by an Israeli air strike in central Gaza, in a rare acknowledgement from the Hamas government of a high-ranking fatality.

Israel has imposed a siege on Gaza that has deprived the territory's 2.4 million people of most clean water, food, medicines and fuel.

The sporadic arrival of aid by truck slowed further after Israeli forces closed the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) chief Philippe Lazzarini said Israeli authorities were prioritising the private commercial sector at Kerem Shalom, the other crossing into southern Gaza.

While private goods are "welcome", he said most Gazans are desperate after seven months of war and cannot afford goods at the current market prices.

burs-jd-kir/dcp
Israel's foreign ministry said Thursday that Israel's ties with Ireland, Norway and Spain will face "serious consequences" after their governments decided to recognise a Palestinian state from next week.

"There will be additional serious consequences for relations with their countries following the decision they made," the ministry statement quoted top official Jacob Blitstein as saying.

Blitstein was speaking during a meeting with the envoys of the three countries to "reprimand" them for their governments' move announced on Wednesday.

During the meeting, Israeli officials showed the three envoys a video of the kidnapping of five women soldiers during the October 7 attack by Hamas.

The three-minute clip, also released to the media on Wednesday, showed the women sitting on the ground, some with blood on their faces, with their hands tied following their capture from the Nahal Oz base in southern Israel.

The footage was taken from a two-hour video filmed on a body camera by Hamas militants during the attack, campaign group Hostage and Missing Families Forum said in a statement accompanying the clip.

At Thursday's meeting, Blitstein "reprimanded the ambassadors for the perverse decision of their governments to recognise a Palestinian state," the ministry statement said.

He said the recognition move makes it "more difficult to promote a deal for the release of hostages" still held in Gaza by Palestinian militants.

The coordinated announcements by the three governments came days after the International Criminal Court prosecutor said he would seek arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister and defence minister as well as Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who has visited several countries to drum up support for recognition, said the move would reinforce efforts to revive a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict.

Israel has reacted with fury, immediately recalling its envoys to the three countries.

"The intention of several European countries to recognise a Palestinian state is a reward for terror," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday, adding that a sovereign State of Palestine would be a "terror state".
The UN General Assembly voted Thursday to establish an annual day of remembrance for the 1995 Srebrenica genocide, despite furious opposition from Bosnian Serbs and Serbia.

The resolution written by Germany and Rwanda -- countries synonymous with genocide in the 20th century -- received 84 votes in favor, 19 against with 68 abstentions and makes July 11 "International Day of Remembrance of the Srebrenica Genocide."

"This resolution seeks to foster reconciliation, in the present and for the future," said Germany's ambassador to the UN Antje Leendertse.

Ahead of the vote, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic warned the General Assembly that the move "will just open old wounds and that will create a complete political havoc."

But he said he did not deny the killings at Srebrenica, adding that he bowed his "head to all the victims of the conflict in Bosnia."

Following the vote, Vucic draped himself with his country's flag, before saying those behind the vote "wanted to stigmatize Serbian people -- they did not succeed."

Church bells rang out across Serbia on Thursday in protest. The Serbian Orthodox Church said it hoped the gesture would unite Serbs in "prayers, serenity, mutual solidarity and firmness in doing good, despite untrue and unjust accusations it faces at the UN."

Except Serbia, all of the former Yugoslav republics voted for the resolution.

Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, meanwhile, denied a genocide had even taken place in the Bosnian city and said that his administration would not recognize the UN resolution.

Bosnian Serb forces captured Srebrenica -- a UN-protected enclave at the time -- on July 11, 1995, a few months before the end of Bosnia's civil war, which saw approximately 100,000 people killed.

In the following days, Bosnian Serb forces killed around 8,000 Muslim men and teenagers -- a crime described as a genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Court of Justice.

The incident is considered the worst single atrocity in Europe since World War II.

In addition to establishing the memorial day, the resolution condemns "any denial" of the genocide and urges UN member countries to "preserve the established facts."

In a letter to other UN members, Germany and Rwanda described the vote as a "crucial opportunity."

- Threat to peace, security -

However, there has been a furious response from Serbia and the Bosnian Serb leadership.

In an attempt to defuse tensions, the authors of the resolution added -- at Montenegro's request -- that culpability for the genocide is "individualized and cannot be attributed to any ethnic, religious or other group or community as a whole."

That was not enough for Belgrade.

The Srebrenica Memorial Centre praised the UN resolution, calling it proof "we are not alone."

UN rights chief Volker Turk, and rights group Amnesty also welcomed the move.

But Human Rights Watch said it "leaves out any reference to the UN peacekeepers' dismal failure to protect thousands of Bosnian Muslim men and boys."

Russia's UN ambassador, Vasily Nebenzia, said "if the goal of the sponsors was to divide the General Assembly... then they've succeeded brilliantly."

Moscow previously vetoed a UN Security Council resolution in 2015 condemning the "crime of genocide at Srebrenica."

Milorad Dodik, political leader in the Bosnian Serb entity -- where thousands of people demonstrated this April against the resolution -- said the Srebrenica genocide had been a "sham."

The European Union has responded strongly, with foreign affairs spokesman Peter Stano saying "there cannot be any denial" and "anyone trying to put it in doubt has no place in Europe."

Several EU nations including Greece, Cyprus and Slovakia abstained however.

For relatives of the victims of the massacre, the creation of a memorial day was an important step forward.

"Those who led their people into this position (of genocide denial) must accept the truth, so that we can all find peace and move on with our lives," said Kada Hotic, 79-year-old co-director of an association of Srebrenica mothers, who lost her son, husband and two brothers.
A diplomatic upgrade and a surprise appearance by Barack Obama: US President Joe Biden pulled out the stops as he hosted Kenyan counterpart William Ruto for a lavish state visit aimed at competing with Russia and China for influence in Africa.

At a gala dinner in a large pavilion set up on the White House lawn, Biden praised "the belief in freedom, democracy, dignity and equality" that he shared with Ruto, the first African leader to receive a Washington state visit in 15 years.

Biden matched pomp with a string of deals on security, climate and debt -- and delivered an Irish-inspired toast in honor of his guest.

"Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand," Biden said.

For his part, Ruto praised the "enduring bonds of friendship, partnership and solidarity between Kenya and the United States."

Former president Barack Obama, whose father was Kenyan, made a brief surprise appearance at the start of the gala, where 500 guests dined on beef and lobster and enjoyed performances by a gospel choir and country star Brad Paisley.

- 'A strong and committed friend' -

Earlier in the day, Biden announced a plan to make Kenya the first major non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, saying it was the "fulfillment of years of collaboration" against the Islamic State group and Al-Shabaab jihadists in Somalia.

The move will see Kenya join 18 other such allies including Israel, Brazil and Ukraine, boosting military and diplomatic links, although without a formal security pact.

Biden also thanked Kenya for agreeing to lead an upcoming international police mission to Haiti, where months of gang violence have left the tiny Caribbean nation on America's doorstep in a political and humanitarian crisis.

Ruto said that "in Joe Biden, Kenya and Africa have a strong and committed friend."

- Back foot -

The Kenyan president's visit comes as the United States and ally France are on the back foot in Africa, where massive Chinese investments and aggressive use by Russia of shadowy paramilitary groups are changing the geopolitical balance.

Biden and Ruto repeatedly stressed common "democratic values" and their desire to share leadership on issues of climate change, political instability and debt distress.

The two leaders also issued a "joint vision statement" on reducing the mounting debts of developing countries and the handicap it represents for African countries trying to grow their economies.

The 81-year-old US president further welcomed Ruto's "mutual support" for Ukraine, which is one of the current 18 non-NATO allies and is receiving Western military aid as it battles Russia's invasion.

- Symbolism -

But as with any state visit to the White House -- Biden has hosted the leaders of Japan and Australia in the last eight months alone -- the symbolism was as important as the deliverables.

The two leaders posed with US First Lady Jill Biden and Ruto's wife Rachel on the White House balcony, strolled through the famed colonnades and shook hands ahead of their talks in the Oval Office.

Biden held a major summit for African leaders in 2022, but he has not made good on promises to visit the continent as president.

The Democrat, who faces a tight rematch against Donald Trump in November's US presidential election, quipped on Wednesday when Ruto arrived that "I plan on going in February after I'm reelected."

Africa has often been on the back burner for US diplomats but the continent now presents a growing headache in Washington.

Russia has established new footholds -- most recently in Niger, where the United States has agreed to withdraw its 1,000 troops, while Russian troops come in.

The United States also faces competition from China, which has pumped billions in infrastructure money into Africa for the past two decades.

Ruto's White House visit meanwhile represents a major turnaround for the Kenyan, who was previously accused by the International Criminal Court of crimes against humanity over violence after Kenya's 2007-8 election.

The case was dropped after the prosecutor complained of a campaign of witness intimidation.
The trial by default of three high-ranking Syrian officials, which opened on Tuesday 21 May, shows "France's strong desire to respond to the situation in Syria", emphasised General Jean-Philippe Reiland, head of the Office central de lutte contre les crimes contre l'humanite (Central Office for the fight against crimes against humanity, OCLCH), who attended the hearings before the Paris Assize Court. "It's an achievement", he said. Around thirty investigations have been opened by the OCLCH into Syrians reported on French territory. But trials are slow in coming. In this case, "there were two French-Syrian victims, so it was possible to bring them to trial more quickly," he explained.

The case heard this week, after the Court of Cassation threatened to annul some of the Syrian proceedings in 2021, is a kind of trial run for France, almost nine years after the promises made by its Foreign Minister at the United Nations in 2015. It is not being organised under universal jurisdiction, which presupposes the presence in France of an alleged perpetrator, but under a procedure known as "by default", which enables people living abroad to be tried. This is only possible because the victims are French (in this case Franco-Syrian). This trial lasts only four days, whereas universal jurisdiction trials last more than a month. There is no defence, and if the accused are ever arrested, they will be retried.

"This session marks the start of the fight against impunity that Syrians have been waiting for so long", stressed Ziad Majed, a political scientist and co-author of a book on the Syrian dictator entitled "Inside the head of Bashar al-Assad", as he opened the list of witnesses - five called by the prosecution and five by the civil parties. A few dozen Syrians from France attended the hearing, most of them members of associations defending the victims of the el-Assad regime. Their presence is encouraged by the provision of Arabic interpreters - a model recently used in the Netherlands in another Syrian trial. Around forty headsets were requested on the first day, we are told, and more like fifteen on the other days. With the dock empty, the defence bench is occupied by the interpreters.

"It is not the role of the Assize Court to appoint lawyers to represent defendants who have failed to appear for trial. It's not possible," says its president, Laurent Raviot, after explaining this unusual procedure - of which there is only one known precedent in France, concerning the Pinochet regime.

"Caesar" or the hell of repression

On the second day, the hearing of context witnesses called by the prosecution concluded with that of the OCLCH Middle East team leader, who was given the painful task of showing the photographs taken in Syria by a former Syrian forensic doctor known by the pseudonym "Caesar". The selection of raw images of the repressive hell into which hundreds of thousands of Syrians were plunged after the Damascus Spring of 2011 reveals around 150 brutalised, often emaciated bodies. These photographs were chosen because they were taken in Mezzeh prison, on the outskirts of Damascus, where Mazen and Patrick Abdelkader Dabbagh entered at the beginning of November 2013, never to leave it.

One by one, the petrified, numbered and labelled faces and bodies on the screen tell the story of the "administrative obsession" and the "desire to paralyse an entire society" described the day before by Ziad Majed. Hundreds of thousands of people arrested", he explained, means millions of people stuck with their families, put out of action by waiting, death or fear.

On the civil parties' bench, Obeida Dabbagh, Mazen's older brother, is the one who was not afraid, "except at the beginning", he admitted in his testimony to the court on 23 May. It was he who triggered the case on 3 October 2015, when he showed up at the OCLCH two years after the arrest of his brother and nephew. Spontaneously. He had just read in the press that French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius had forwarded the Caesar report to the OCLCH and requested the opening of an investigation into crimes against humanity. Obeida made an initial statement to the investigators, as did his wife Hanane. The following year, this led to a first complaint against X for "torture and enforced disappearance", filed with the support of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH).

Obeida Dabbagh: "I hope that Patrick and Mazen, wherever they are, can see that I never gave up and that I was always there for them. They are the torchbearers, the spokespeople for the hundreds of thousands of Syrians who have disappeared like them."  Photo:  Stephane de Sakutin / AFP

"A generous and cultured man"

Wearing a green polo shirt and metal-rimmed glasses, the 70-year-old holds the witness stand with both hands. He tells the court how he never gave up. An atomic engineer, he worked for the French company Thales for forty years. Their father, he says, was not in agreement with the government but not openly in opposition either. A diplomat, "he preferred to stand aside" and obtain a post with the Secretary General of the Arab League. "Mazen, the youngest of the siblings, loved to laugh, he was always cheerful, and as the youngest he was pampered by my mother." The father was in Tunis, the brothers were scattered across Europe, but Mazen was the one who wanted to stay in Syria. Their mother, who is French, also stayed. She worked in Damascus for the cultural attache at the French embassy. Mazen studied French literature and got married. His outspokenness was "not always appreciated by his colleagues" at the French lycee, where he was a teaching adviser. But Obeida described him as "a generous and very cultured man". Mazen's son Patrick, born in 1993, was rather "shy".

Patrick was 20 years old when, on 3 November 2013, officers from an air force unit came to arrest him at 11pm at the family home. They took his phone and computer equipment and reassured his parents that it was a simple interrogation: "Don't worry, it's just a matter of a few days." But at the same hour the next day, they came back for the father. "Sir, you've brought up your son badly, we need you to question him." Mazen was in his pyjamas and slippers. "You can get dressed," the officers told him. "There's no point, where you're taking me, you're going to take all that off," retorted Mazen with his usual sense of repartee. The soldiers took off in his car, which was brand new, beat up the driver of the Cyprus embassy, whose vehicle had to be moved, and also arrested Wissam Nasser, Mazen's brother-in-law, who was working for a powerful businessman. Released shortly afterwards, it was Nasser who told the family where Mazen and Patrick had been taken.

The prison at Mezzeh military airport, in the centre-west of Damascus, has a sinister reputation. On their arrival, Mazen and Wissam were violently tackled against the wall. The next day, at around 2pm, Patrick, who showed signs of having been beaten, was brought into their cell but reassured them. "It's not serious, I'm fine." They were then separated. Mazen was thrown into an overcrowded cell, similar to those described by the four Mezzeh survivors who testified at the trial. The best known of them, Mazen Darwish, a lawyer and founder of the Syrian Centre for Media and Freedom of Expression, was himself thrown with more than a hundred other people into a 40 sqm room "with no ventilation and no daylight". Mazen Dabbagh's brother-in-law reported the last words heard from him: "I'm suffocating, I'm suffocating, get me out of here."

Obeida learned of their arrests on 9 November 2013. He described to the court the ensuing battle to try and get news. Calls to well-placed acquaintances, who first reassured him, then told him that the case was getting tougher, and finally asked him to stop calling. Contacts with the French embassy, which had moved to Beirut, with the headmaster of the French lycee, with the crisis unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a letter to French President Francois Hollande "We're going to do everything we can," he was told several times.

"An organized mafia economy"

Obeida paused for a moment and blot himself with a handkerchief. In Syria, he said, $15,000 was paid against his advice via an intermediary to Abdel Salam Mahmoud, the director of the investigations department of the air force intelligence service - of which Mezzeh prison depends. The money was supposed to be used to move Mazen to a civilian prison. Two weeks later, the intermediary apologised: they hadn't checked, but Mazen had been dead since March 2015, he said, offering to provide a death certificate for an extra $15,000. A "ransom system organised to obtain information and [an] organised mafia economy under the control of the regime to produce rumours, monetise death certificates or the return of bodies," explained political scientist Majed. The following year, the family home was requisitioned. Mazen's wife and daughter were evicted and the premises were occupied by members of the air force intelligence service, including Salam Mahmoud, according to information obtained by Obeida.

In the case of the Dabbaghs, the bodies were not returned. However, death certificates were eventually issued in August 2018, without specifying the cause of death or proving that Mazen died on 25 November 2017 and Patrick on 21 January 2014.

In France that summer, Obeida and Hanane organised a ceremony "to start mourning". On 12 October 2018, these documents also enabled French investigating judges to issue three arrest warrants for "complicity in crimes against humanity" - against Abdel Salam Mahmoud, his superior Jamil Hassan, and Ali Mamlouk, head of the national security office at the time of the events.

The three men are respectively considered to be the Syrian regime's No. 132, No. 10 and No. 3 on the Council of the European Union's list of officials targeted by sanctions - a list drawn up in May 2013, just over six months before the arrest of the Dabbagh father and son. They are also the big absentees from this trial, and will not be able to help Obeida understand what he will be looking for all his life: why his brother and nephew were killed. Theories swirl around in the engineer's head, but he can't come to any firm conclusions. "I hope that Patrick and Mazen, wherever they are, can see that I never gave up and that I was always there for them. They are the torchbearers, the spokespeople for the hundreds of thousands of Syrians who have disappeared like them."
This is the biggest event they have covered in international justice, acknowledge Stephanie van den Berg and Janet Anderson, our partners at Asymmetrical Haircuts. On May 20 the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has requested arrest warrants against three top leaders of Palestinian movement Hamas and the two most prominent Israeli political officials for crimes against humanity and war crimes.

For years the ICC was damned for its inaction, now it is for taking action. For years it has been criticized for being one-sided in its prosecutions; now it is for going after both sides. But so many questions remain: How long will it take before judges grant (or not) the prosecutors request? Can the investigation be stopped? Will the case expand? How to analyse reactions from Germany, the UK or the US? What to think about the panel of experts that the prosecutor has put together to advise him on evidence and alleged crimes? How whats going on at the ICC interacts with the parallel proceedings before the International Court of Justice? Our two partners and a number of legal experts share their early reactions.
EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell on Friday urged Israel "not to intimidate" or "threaten" the judges of the International Criminal Court, whose prosecutor has requested arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister and defence minister.

"I ask everyone, starting with the Israeli government, but also certain European governments, not to intimidate the judges, not to threaten them," Borrell said during an interview with Spanish public television TVE, calling for "respect for the International Criminal Court".

What the court's prosecutor "has done in presenting a case should not be considered as an anti-Semitic attitude," the former Spanish foreign minister added.

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said Monday that he requested arrest warrants for as Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh and Mohamed Deif, on suspicions of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

While he said the Palestinian militant chiefs could be culpable of "extermination", "rape and other acts of sexual violence" and "taking hostages as a war crime", he accused the Israelis of "starvation", "wilful killing", and "extermination and/or murder".

Netanyahu said he rejected "with disgust ... the comparison between democratic Israel and the mass murderers of Hamas", and Biden also stressed that "there is no equivalence -- none -- between Israel and Hamas".

The warrants, if granted by the ICC judges, would mean that any of the 124 ICC member states would technically be obliged to arrest Netanyahu and the others if they travelled there. However the court has no mechanism to enforce its orders.

The Gaza war broke out after Hamas's unprecedented attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Militants also took 252 hostages, 121 of whom remain in Gaza, including 37 the army says are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 35,800 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.
Prosecutors in France's first trial of officials from the Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad said Friday they were seeking life sentences for three top security officers.

On the final day of the trial before the Paris Criminal Court they also asked for an international arrest warrant for the three, who are being tried in absentia for complicity in crimes against humanity and war crimes, to remain in force.

The case against Ali Mamlouk, former head of the National Security Bureau, Jamil Hassan, ex-director of the Air Force intelligence service, and Abdel Salam Mahmoud, former head of investigations for the service in Damascus, is based on their role in the deaths of two French Syrian men, Mazzen Dabbagh and his son Patrick, arrested in Damascus in 2013.

At the time of his arrest, Patrick Dabbagh was a 20-year-old arts and humanities student at the University of Damascus. His father Mazzen was a senior education adviser at the French school in Damascus.

Ahead of the trial, the investigating judges said it was "sufficiently established" that the two men "like thousands of detainees of the Air Force intelligence suffered torture of such intensity that they died".

The two men were declared dead in 2018. The family was formally notified that Patrick died on January 21, 2014 and his father Mazzen on November 25, 2017.

In 2016, Mazzen Dabbagh's wife and daughter were evicted from their house in Damascus, which had been requisitioned. According to the prosecution, those acts were "likely to constitute war crimes, extortion and concealment of extortion".

War between the Assad government and armed opposition groups, including the Islamic State group, erupted after the repression of peaceful pro-democracy protests in 2011.

The conflict has killed more than half a million people, displaced millions, and ravaged Syria's economy and infrastructure.

Trials into abuses in Syria have taken place elsewhere in Europe, notably in Germany. In those cases, the people prosecuted held lower ranks and were present at the hearings.

The trial in Paris followed seven years of investigation carried out by a French judicial war crimes unit.
Hamas hailed the UN top court's ruling Friday that Israel must immediately halt its offensive in Rafah but criticised its decision to exclude the rest of war-torn Gaza from the order.

The Palestinian militant group "welcomes the decision of the International Court of Justice", it said in a statement, adding however that it expected the ICJ ruling to "put an end to the aggression and genocide against our people throughout the Gaza Strip, and not just in Rafah".

"What is happening in Jabalia and other parts of this (northern) sector is no less criminal and dangerous than what's happening in Rafah," it said.

It was Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Gaza, that triggered the Gaza war.

The Islamist group, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, called on the "international community and the United Nations to put pressure on the (Israeli) occupation to comply immediately with this decision."

It said the world body had a "historical responsibility to see that the principle of international justice is respected."

Rulings of the Hague-based ICJ are legally binding but lack direct enforcement mechanisms.

The court ordered Israel to "immediately halt its military offensive" in Rafah and to keep "open the Rafah crossing for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance".
A Paris court on Friday ordered life jail terms for three top Syrian security officials for complicity in crimes against humanity and war crimes in a landmark case.

It is the first time that France has held a trial on abuses committed during Syria's civil war since 2011.

The accused -- Ali Mamlouk, former head of the National Security Bureau; Jamil Hassan, former director of the Air Force intelligence service; and Abdel Salam Mahmoud, former head of investigations -- were all absent, but there are international warrants for their arrest.

"It is a verdict that will resonate for hundreds of thousands of Syrians who are still waiting for justice," said Clemence Bectarte, a lawyer for some of the victims in the case.

The three were accused over their role in the deaths of two French Syrian men, Mazzen Dabbagh and his son Patrick, arrested in Damascus in 2013. The two were never seen again and declared dead in 2018.

At the time of his arrest, Patrick Dabbagh was a 20-year-old arts and humanities student at the University of Damascus. His father Mazzen was a senior education adviser at the French school in Damascus.

Ahead of the trial, the investigating judges said it was "sufficiently established" that the two men "like thousands of detainees of the Air Force intelligence suffered torture of such intensity that they died".

Syria's conflict since 2011 has killed more than half a million people, displaced millions, and ravaged Syria's economy and infrastructure.

Trials into abuses in Syria have taken place elsewhere in Europe, notably in Germany. In those cases, the people prosecuted held lower ranks and were present at the hearings.
Han So Hee has reportedly lost another advertisement contract following the previous controversies surrounding the actress.

After the South Korean actress faced public disapproval due to her relationship, the "My Name" star's contract deals with brands continue to drop.

In a report, the second hand car platform Hey Dealer just introduced Bae Suzy and Lee Jung Eun as the new endorsers.

As for Han So Hee, she had been with Hey Dealer since 2023 and appeared in a vlog-style advertising video where the actress garnered positive feedback from the public.

Unfortunately, this was not the first time that a brand didn't renew the actress for a deal.

Back in March, two companies decided not to renew their contract with the "Nevertheless" star.

Beverage company Lotte Chilsung and Korea's Nonghyup Bank have terminated their advertising deals with Han So Hee amid the controversy surrounding the actress' relationship with Ryu Jun Yeol.

At the time, an official from Lotte confirmed that the company's contract with the actress ended due to other reasons.

"Our contract with Han ended at the beginning of this month, which was before her romance scandal broke out."

On the other hand, a PR industry official explained why a celebrity's image is crucial in brand deals.

"A celebrity's involvement in a public scandal can indeed raise concerns, particularly when they serve as an advertising model. Hiring a celebrity embroiled in a scandal can lead to rumors and bad publicity for the companies that employ them."

Han So Hee's Dating Controversy With Ryu Jun Yeol

The news sparked after a fan mentioned the sighting of Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol together in a luxury hotel in Hawaii. Because of their celebrity status, the dating rumor circulated like wildfire on social media.

At the height of the issue, their respective agencies confirmed that the actors were in Hawaii, but for a different purpose.

Han So Hee visited the country for a vacation while "The 8 Show" star went there for a photoshoot.

However, Dispatch later revealed photos of the alleged couple who were spotted together.

To add fuel to the fire, Ryu Jun Yeol's ex-girlfriend, Lee Hyeri, shared a cryptic post on Instagram, sparking speculation about a "transit relationship."

Meanwhile, Han So Hee broke her silence and confirmed her relationship with the "Reply 1988" star.

Two weeks after the actress' announcement regarding her relationship, she confirmed that she and Ryu Jun Yeol had broken up.

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Flores
After a dating rumor sparked between Park Seo Joon and American star Lauren Tsai, the actor's label finally addressed the issue.

Want to know what the agency said? Then read on!

Awesome ENT Releases Statement Regarding Park Seo Joon's Dating Issue

On May 23, Park Seo Joon, who is currently on a drama break, made headlines as media insiders claimed that he was allegedly dating Chinese-American actress Lauren Tsai.

According to media reports, the two were spotted hanging out. This immediately became the center of discussion on multiple online communities and media platforms.

The following day, May 24, Park Seo Joon's agency Awesome ENT broke its silence and officially addressed the actor's ongoing dating issue with the foreign actress.

Awesome ENT stated, "Please understand that we cannot confirm private matters outside of the actor's official schedules." The agency didn't deny nor confirm whether the "Itaewon Class" star is dating. The label also has the same statement issued sometime in June 2023 when Park Seo Joon was embroiled in dating rumors with YouTuber Xooos.



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# # pic.twitter.com/8y96fUgpxL   (@__04321n) May 18, 2024

To recall, Park Seo Joon's dating issue with American star Lauren started when a fan of him uploaded a photo of the actor. The owner of the picture shared that they accidentally met the heartthrob, and noticed that he was with someone. The uploader added that the staff of the actor told them to keep it a secret.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE : Park Seo Joon Spotted with American Star Lauren Tsai - Sparks Dating Rumors Among Fans

Since then, the actor became a hot topic and netizens with their sharp investigative skills, connected the dots, and named the woman Lauren Tsai.

Where is Park Seo Joon?

Following the release of his historical-romance series "Gyeongseong Creature" Season 1 in 2023, Netflix is set to release the second season of the drama sometime this year. Park Seo Joon collaborated with breakout star Han So Hee in this project.

Apart from the drama, Park Seo Joon is also intended to greet viewers with another variety show. He is confirmed to return in 'Jinny's Kitchen' Season 2.

It has been said that the cast and crew are already preparing for the production. However, the scheduled release of the program is still in discussion.

In addition, the lead actor has already started building his Hollywood career after he starred in the American movie "The Marvels," which garnered attention among fans. The public is looking forward to seeing more of the actor's upcoming projects.

What can you say about the news? 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.




Friday, May 24, 2024 - A close family member of one time most wanted criminal Edward Shimoli was almost lynched in Donholm after she was caught conning unsuspecting members of the public.

The suspect, Rebbeca Shimoli, was beaten black and blue by an angry mob after a victim she tried to con along Outering Road raised an alarm.

An undercover cop shared photos of Rebecca begging the mob to spare her life.

The incident comes barely a day after Rebbecas nephew, Leone Shimoli alias Shimoli Junior, was gunned down by undercover cops after he was caught robbing Kenyans heading to work in the Industrial Area.

Buru Buru DCI boss Jeremiah Ikiao said the suspect had been terrorizing mostly sportsmen and fans near and around Camp Toyoyo Stadium in Jericho estate.

The suspects late father topped the police list of wanted criminals with 14 murders linked to him.

For several years, he managed to evade arrest and even when he was once nabbed his fellow gang members staged a daring rescue mission for him from a maximum security prison in 1996.

He was gunned down after he completed his jail term in Kamiti.





Below are photos of Edward Shimolis close relative who was almost lynched.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.






Friday, May 24, 2024 - Four people have died with a search and rescue operation underway following the collapse of a nightclub at a Majorcan beach resort last night, May 23.

Emergency responders including police and firefighters raced to the scene of the incident at 8.30pm local time, identified as the Medusa Beach Club in Playa de Palma, Spain.

Local reports also suggest the number of deaths could rise with 16 people reportedly injured confirmed by police.

A spokesman for a regional emergency response coordination centre confirmed last night around 11pm local time that four people had died and later confirmed that 16 were now injured, rather than the 21 previously claimed.

Emergency responders are still at the scene. Seven of the injured are said to be critical".

The Majorca nightclub and restaurant unveiled a new rooftop bar just one day before the collapse.

A terrace of the two-storey building is believed to have collapsed through to the basement of the building, which has left only the facade still standing, local media said.

Just a day before the collapse, the Medusa Beach Club social media team on Instagram posted a photo of their new rooftop bar with the caption: Totally different. New rooftop.

Local media reported that three women and one man made up the deceased, and that two of them worked at the club.

One of the people killed has been named locally as Abdoulaye Diop, a Senegalese migrant living in Majorca and working as a nightclub doorman who in 2017 saved a man who was drowning in the sea at Playa de Palma.

Two other victims are thought to be young girls on holiday, while the fourth is said to have been a builder working on the sight.

Four of the injured are said to be very serious with reports pointing to the victims being crushed under rubble.

A local court has sent a forensic expert to the scene.

Before four deaths were announced, Majorcan authorities stated: "It is confirmed two people have died after the collapse of a building in Calle Cartago de la playa de Palma. It is also confirmed that there are 12 to 14 people injured to differing degrees. Psychologists have been brought in."

According to local media outlet Ser, a worker in a fashion store next to the collapsed store said: "Everything fell, completely. It was very loud and there were a lot of people inside."

He added that "the top floor fell".




Friday, May 24, 2024 - A police officer has claimed he is the real husband to Sheila Akeyo Odoyo alias Wegesha, whose mutilated body was discovered in a house in Athi River, Machakos County.

Sergeant Samwel Odoyo revealed he secretly planned to reunite with Sheila, whom he recognizes as his first wife.

Sheila reportedly died just two days after talking to Odoyo on the phone.

Their conversation centred on how they would meet and reunite after staying away from each other for close to seven years.

We had a conversation in which we discussed how we would meet.

"I wanted to go and meet her in Nairobi but she requested I let her travel to Kisumu where I work, Odoyo recounted.

The conversation ended well with Odoyo looking forward to meeting his estranged wife after she allegedly intimated that she had set plans to walk away from Jackson.

She had hinted to me that she was already looking for a house to terminate her relationship with that man to reunite with me. Her proposal left me in high hopes that our marriage was going to restart, said Odoyo.

However, he learned about Sheilas death two days later.

It was shocking news because Sheila was coming to meet me in Kisumu to plan how to rejoin my family.

"I expected to meet her alive but let us leave the matter to God because he has a reason for everything, he said.

Odoyo and Sheila had lived together for 13 years before she walked out in 2017.

They were in constant communication even after partying ways and would share ideas on how to raise their three children.

The policeman says he is entitled to bury Sheila in line with the Luo culture because he had paid dowry.

My in-laws are very cooperative in this matter because they recognise me as their son-in-law.

"I am the one who paid dowry, which is a sign of formalising a marriage, he said.

Sheila will be buried at Odoyos homestead on May 29th.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Friday, May 24, 2024  As political tensions between President William Ruto and his Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua escalate, one Luo man has decided to take advantage of the situation to apply for the job.

Lawyer Willis Otieno has announced his intention to succeed Gachagua.

Speaking during an interview, Otieno, who is also the deputy leader of the Safina Party, exuded confidence in garnering massive support from the Mt. Kenya region, pledging to support a presidential candidate from the province.

"In the 2022 elections, 60% of Ruto's votes came from Mt Kenya. Currently, they are not on good terms.

"If they withdraw their support, Nyanza voters will back them and advocate for a president from the region with a deputy from Luo land. I aim to rival Rigathi Gachagua," said Otieno.

Otieno, known for his outspoken nature, has revealed his participation in ODM meetings, where his bid for the deputy presidency received a positive reception, particularly among leaders from the Nyanza region.

He emphasised the significance of his candidacy for the interests of the Nyanza region.

Notably, the advocate highlights the apparent lack of presidential aspirations among prominent Luo leaders, except Raila Odinga who is eyeing the African Union Commission chairmanship.

He observed that the ambition among these leaders seems confined to parliamentary and gubernatorial roles, with only Embakasi East MP Babu Owino aspiring to lead Nairobi.

"No Luo leader has declared interest in the presidency apart from Raila Odinga.

"Most of them only want to become governors in their respective counties apart from Babu Owino who declared interest in becoming the Nairobi governor.

"The ODM's main focus now is Raila's AUC ambition," he added.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kapsaret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi have met Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua amid a bitter fallout between the second-in-command and his boss, President William Ruto.

Gachagua has added credence to the fall-out reports after he called on his former boss-turned-foe, retired president Uhuru Kenyatta, to join him in unifying Mt Kenya.

His close allies from Mt Kenya have also claimed that the president and his handlers have been mistreating the DP.

Amidst the uncertainty within the ruling party, a photo has emerged of the DP and Sudi, who is a confidante of the President.

The image might quell uneasiness in some quarters with the ruling party due to Sudi's close ties with the father of the nation.

Here is a photo of Rigathi Gachagua and Sudi posing on Friday.





The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Friday, May 24, 2024  Embakasi North MP James Gakuya is breathing fire over the alleged fallout between President William Ruto and his Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.

In a statement, Gakuya warned Ruto that things may never end will if he continues to disrespect Gachagua.

Gakuya hit out at the Head of State, accusing him of alienating Gachagua, who he argues remains to be the region's kingpin.

The lawmaker, as a result, challenged Ruto to end his partnership with the DP if it was no longer beneficial for both.

This comes after Gachagua retreated to Nyeri where he underwent intense fasting for seven days following rumours of their fallout.

"The counter is simple, it is either the marriage materialised and moved on or if there are difficulties, people part.

"It is not cast on stone that it is permanent. There is no permanent enmity or friendship in politics," Gakuya argued.

"If you think that (the DP) has become a burden, then there comes an element of betrayal, at that time, you decide what is next."

In his opinion, Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch revealed that the alliance between Ruto and Gachagua was forced.

"The choice of Gachagua as Rutos running mate was forced and not made out of free will.

"Uhuru warned Kenyans that he knows Ruto more than we do, and theres a late realization of who we are dealing with," he stated.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - As Kenyans still come to terms with President William Rutos lavish trip to the U.S., an Indian TV has also raised concerns over the expensive trip which is fully funded by Kenyan taxpayers.

In an editorial segment, Firstpost TV highlighted the opulence of the private jet that Ruto hired for the trip at the time Kenyans are facing harsh economic times, coupled with high taxation.

Firstpost TV news anchor Palki Sharma questioned the necessity of a 30-person delegation, including a comedian, funded by taxpayer money.

"President William Ruto is being slammed, not because he's in the U.S. but because of how he chose to get there.

"He decided to fly in a luxury jet. Ruto pulled out all the stops.

"He brought along an entourage of more than 30 people, including a famous Kenyan comedian.

Everyone travelled to the US in style on the Kenyan taxpayers' dime, and this, more than anything else, has triggered the backlash," Palki Sharma said.

Firstpost acknowledged the importance of international travel for leaders to build relations and negotiate trade deals but deemed Ruto's trip insanely and excessively lavish.

They argued that such luxury contradicts Ruto's policies, particularly since he took office in 2022, increased taxes, and advocated fiscal responsibility.

"Ruto has been stringent with Kenyan taxpayers. Since becoming president in 2022, he has raised taxes on salaries, doubled the sales tax on fuel, introduced a housing levy, a hospital insurance levy, and a turnover tax on small businesses.

"His motto seems to be: if it moves, tax itall in the name of fiscal responsibility. Yet, he's flying around in an Emirati jet with a large entourage, including a comedian.

"This stark contrast between his actions and his preached austerity is why Kenyans are outraged.

"And this isnt an isolated incident; he's made over 50 foreign trips since taking office (sic)," Sharma continued.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Azimio One Kenya Alliance and communication strategist Pauline Njoroge has stated that she informed former Prime Minister Raila Odinga of her trip to the United States, where she accompanied President William Ruto and First Lady Rachael Ruto.

Njoroge has been on the receiving end with many Kenyans asking her why she accompanied Ruto yet she is in opposition.

However, Njoroge in a statement on X stated that she informed Raila Odinga about her trip to the United States and the former Prime Minister gave her the green light.

Njoroge further stated that she has not joined Rutos United Democratic Alliance(UDA) and that she will go back to the opposition once she returns to the country.

I have not defected. Reporting on the State Visit does not mean I have joined his side, Njoroge said.

I still am. Once he is back in the country, we resume on our domestic issues starting with that punitive Finance Bill 2024, Njoroge added.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Siaya County Governor James Orengo has said he regrets appointing William Oduol as his deputy because their relationship is going from bad to worse.

Orengo and Oduol appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on Devolution and Inter-governmental Relations on Thursday.

In his submissions, Oduol accused Orengo of locking him out of his office and any county activities.

But Orengo in response rubbished claims that he had locked Oduol out of his office, adding that he could not interfere.

The county chief revealed that he had been warned about picking Oduol as his running mate by ODM party leader Raila Odinga.

He said trouble started brewing between them after the presidential election petition when he had left him in charge.

Dr. Oburu here told me you are making a very big mistake. My own party leader told me you are making a big mistake. It didn't take two months.

"The problem was that as soon as I was sworn in I came to Nairobi to participate in the presidential election petition and I had left him running the county for three months.

"When I went back I think he was expecting a reversal of roles where I would be the deputy

Orengo stated that, unlike his deputy, he had evidence to prove that he had been receiving all his benefits, adding that it was upon him to attend Cabinet sessions.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - On August 17, 2015, Lydia Mathia, a former senior official at the Ministry of Youth and Public Service, accused Gabriel Gathuka Kagombe of attempting to murder her and their unborn child.

Kagombe, who later became Gatundu South MP, was alleged to have physically assaulted Mathia and threatened her with a gun.

Mathia recounted that she had agreed to meet Kagombe in his office around 6:30 PM to discuss business matters.

However, the meeting quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.

The incident, which Mathia detailed in a Facebook post, included claims of being thrown against a wall, punched, and kicked by Kagombe, who also allegedly aimed a gun at her when she sought refuge in a toilet.

"He threw me on the floor and kicked me about, dragging me around. All this time, I was just clutching my tummy, afraid of what these blows could do to my baby," she wrote in her post.

Mathia further alleged that Kagombe pressed his hand against her mouth and threatened her, saying;

"Shut up! Shut up! Who do you think you are?" Mathia also accused Kagombe of pointing a gun at her and threatening to shoot when she locked herself in the toilet.

She described seeing the gun clearly and how she managed to avoid being shot by stepping away from the window.

Eventually, she managed to dial a friend who called the police, prompting Kagombe to flee the scene.

Kagombe later denied the allegations stating that he and Mathia had been involved in a branding project for Huduma Centre valued at Ksh 19 million and the falling out was due to her alleged misappropriation of funds from their joint account.

He also denied being the father of her child and expressed his readiness to take a DNA test to prove his innocence.

Mathia insisted that this was not the first time she was pregnant with Kagombe's child.

Mathia now works at the Nairobi County Government as the Chief Officer Security and Compliance.

Their daughter resembles Kagombe.

See her photos below.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is now on his own over his constant one-man, one-shilling campaign.

This is after President William Rutos UDA Party threw him under the bus, saying his campaign to benefit Mt. Kenya at the expense of other regions was unconstitutional.

Ruto, through UDA's communication director Antonellah Kakuko, joined a group of Kenya Kwanza leaders who called out Gachagua over his one-man, one-shilling campaign.

The communication strategist said Gachagua's campaign is unconstitutional and discriminatory to marginalized communities.

Kakuko argued that the country's resources must be shared equitably across the nation, considering even the most remote areas.

"As a pastoralist child, I wonder if Gachaguas stance meant that areas like Lamu, Tana River, Garissa, Isiolo, Turkana, Taita Taveta, Marsabit, Baringo, Samburu, West Pokot, just to name a few were not important to the nation?" she questioned.

She added that the factors to be considered in allocating funds among counties include economic disparities within and among counties and the need to remedy them.

According to Kakuko, this reflects the Constitution's emphasis on equality, affirmative action, and equity to achieve genuine equality.

"If every part of the country was the same in terms of its existing state of development and services, and in terms of the challenges of bringing development and providing services, population would be a rational basis for sharing national revenue between counties."

She argued that since none of these are true, it would be unconstitutional to use that basis alone to share funding.

"We demand equity in resource allocation and development across the country."

She defended the pastoralist community by saying that if the country is going to go Gachagua's way, they demand what they deserve: one man, one kilometre, one shilling.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Kenya Power Chief Executive Officer Joseph Siror has blamed former President Uhuru Kenyatta for the loss of millions at KPLC.

Addressing scrap metal dealers at an event organized by the Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek), Siror revealed that the utility company lost Ksh68 million to vandals immediately after the scrap metal ban was lifted by Uhuru Kenyatta.

Siror noted that the company recorded zero cases of vandalism during the period the ban was in place.

A total of 76 transformers were vandalised between May and December 2022 immediately after the moratorium was lifted.

He further estimated that the cost could be higher if the cost of vandalized copper windings, braces, and meters among others is incorporated.

Siror further noted that in 2023, 365 transformers valued at Ksh328 million were vandalized while so far this year, 78 transformers have been destroyed setting the company back Ksh78 million.

"If you compute the cost of unserved energy, loss of business, and possibly lives, the losses are in billions of Kenya shillings. This is a huge loss to the economy and is unsustainable," he added.

Uhuru banned the scrap metal trade in January 2022 and ordered police to arrest and press treason charges against individuals found vandalizing national infrastructure projects.

The ban was in place as the government developed proper guidelines and was lifted on May 1 of the same year.

At the time, the government mandated all traders to be vetted at the county level before being allowed to engage in the business.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Residents of Machakos want an audit carried out on two top county officials whom they accuse of embezzling public funds.

The two, finance CECM Onesmus Kuyu and Joseph Mathuki aka Kee Kee who is county director of procurement, are literally swimming in money.

It is alleged that they are the new tycoons in Machakos County.

In the past three weeks, Kuyu has donated over Sh10m in harambees.

Apart from participating in fundraisers, the two are also dishing thousands to married and unmarried women nd already, men in Masinga and Matuu are claiming that Mathuki has broken their marriages.

In Matuu, a man pleaded with the clergy to tell Mathuki not to break his union with his wife for the sake of their children.

Kuyu has a record of collapsing four major financial organizations in Kenya while Mathuki was remanded in Nairobis Industrial Area Maximum Prison for economic crimes, misuse of public for private gain, flouting procurement law, and theft by public officer while in office.

It is said that Governor Wavinya Ndeti uses Kuyu and Kee Kee to loot county coffers.

They wield so much power in the county to an extent that they summon other senior county officials like kids.

Below are photos of Kee Kee, who is said to be splashing looted county funds on women in Machakos.





The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Friday, May 24, 2024 - The Matatu Owners Association has opposed the Finance Bill 2024, which seeks to introduce motor vehicle tax.

According to the bill which has the backing of President William Ruto, everyone owning a vehicle will be required to pay 2.5 percent of the value of the car as Motor Vehicle Tax.

Addressing the press in Nairobi, MOA chairman Albert Karakacha criticised the tax asserting it would place an undue burden on the industry.

Karakacha appealed to the government and Members of Parliament to reconsider the decision, emphasizing the vital role the matatu industry plays in supporting the economy.

"We want to plead with the national government through the president to relook into this proposal. We are being overtaxed yet we play a key role in supporting the hustlers," he said.

He also noted the various challenges facing the matatu industry, such as corruption, and suggested that the government should convene a stakeholder forum to devise fair and competitive tax policies.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Slain Ohangla dancer Sheila Wegesha will be buried at her first husbands home on May 29th.

Wegesha had been married to Sergeant Samwel Odoyo for 13 years before she walked out in 2017.

They were blessed with three children and would co-parent even after partying ways.

Odoyo revealed that he spoke to Sheila on phone two days before she was murdered.

Their conversation centered on how they would meet and reunite after staying away from each other for close to seven years.

We had a conversation in which we discussed how we would meet.

"I wanted to go and meet her in Nairobi but she requested I let her travel to Kisumu where I work, Odoyo recounted.

The policeman says he is entitled to bury Sheila in line with the Luo culture because he had paid dowry.

My in-laws are very cooperative in this matter because they recognize me as their son-in-law. I am the one who paid dowry, which is a sign of formalizing a marriage, he said.

See his photos below.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Cancer patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in dire need of radiotherapy are languishing due to dysfunctional machines.

The patients were left unattended, with no clear communication from the management.

On Thursday, some of the patients arrived at the hospital in the morning and by 8PM, they had not been attended to.

The distressed patients, some of whom are elderly, were forced to spend the night on the benches, hoping that the services would resume.

This is what a concerned patient wrote to Nyakundi.













The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai has demanded an explanation from National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi on why he accompanied President William Ruto to the United States.

Wandayi on Wednesday joined President Ruto for a luncheon at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC.

The Ugunja lawmaker went ahead to post his photo with Ruto and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah, explaining the details of their meeting.

"In meetings with the Congressional Black Caucus led by Congressman Steven Horsford, House Leadership under Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Leadership led by Majority Leader Charles Schumer.

"We look forward to a stronger and mutually beneficial partnership between Kenya and the USA," Wandayi said.

The lawmaker's presence raised questions from a section of Kenyans who demanded to know the role of the opposition in a government-sponsored trip.

Alai has joined Kenyans in demanding answers from the Ugunja MP on how he got cleared to join Ruto on his trip.

Here is Alai's letter to Wandayi

Mr. Opiyo Wandayi, EGH,

Minority Leader,

Kenyan National Assembly,

Nairobi. Dear Mr. Wandayi,

RE: SHOW CAUSE LETTER

Greetings from Orange House, where the only international trips we take are in our imaginations aboard Rutos high taxes.

We hope your globe-trotting adventures with President William Ruto are treating you well. We hear the in-flight meals in first class are quite the experience! However, we have a few pressing concerns that require your esteemed explanation.

Firstly, since when did ODM start endorsing world tours with UDA leadership? We must have missed the secret strategy meeting where this was approved. Could you kindly illuminate us on the strategic benefits ODM is expected to gain from your diplomatic dalliances? Are you negotiating for a way out of the Finance Bill 2024 or borrowing skills on mismanagement?

Secondly, we are extremely curious about the authorization you received to gallivant around the globe with UDA and its apologists. Could you please share the specific letter of permission? We are particularly interested in the signatures  we suspect there might be some masterful forgeries at play here.

Or is Hon Kimani Ichungwah using you to spy on William Ruto as UDA implosion looms? In addition, we would appreciate a detailed itinerary of your travels. Were there any confidential meetings to discuss ODM's future as the loyal opposition, or were you simply there to enjoy the perks of the buffet? How many handshakes, back-pats, and smiles are too many before one forgets their political allegiance?

Moreover, we must address the elephant in the room. While UDA is being blamed for mismanaging the economy, overtaxing Kenyans, and turning us into a client state of the IMF and World Bank, you seem to be quite comfortable palling around with them. Is this part of a new ODM strategy to understand how to better critique their policies, or are you taking notes on how to hustle the Kenyan economy into more debt?

Lastly, we are sincerely curious about the personal benefits you are accruing from these ventures. Are the lessons on political gymnastics from UDA members as enlightening as they say? Or are you working on a tell-all memoir, "Inside the UDA: An ODM Leaders Tale"?

We eagerly await your detailed explanation, complete with all the juicy tidbits that we, the humble ODM members, must be missing out on. Please respond at your earliest convenience with the aforementioned letter and any other documents that might clarify this intriguing situation.

Yours sincerely,

Robert Alai, HSC

2024 Show Cause Fellow

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024 - Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has inadvertently moved to incite Kikuyus against the government of President William Ruto.

This is after he claimed that Rutos government has started harassing Kikuyus who overwhelmingly voted for him in the last General Election.

Taking on his X account, Kuria stated that by demolishing Gikomba market, Ruto is systematically targeting Kikuyus and their businesses.

This follows an eviction notice issued to all Gikomba traders by the County Government of Nairobi yesterday.

In the notice, the Johnson Sakaja-led government claimed that 70% of Gikomba stalls are on riparian land and should be demolished beginning today.

At the same time, Kuria blasted Ruto for alienating his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua in government over his one-man, one-shilling campaign; a move that has caused serious storms in Mt. Kenya

This government has started harassing Kikuyus.

"They started with Rigathi now I hear tomorrow they want to demolish Gikomba Market, the main source of income for Kikuyus in Nairobi!

"It's crystal clear Kikuyus are no longer wanted in this government; we were just used as voting robots! Kuria stated.

The Kenyan DAILY POST








Friday, May 24, 2024 - President William Ruto was greatly embarrassed by the Americans when he was hosted at the White House by U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on Thursday.

Ruto left the country on Sunday with his family and a bunch of freeloaders led by Leader of Majority Kimani Ichungwah and his Minority counterpart, Opiyo Wandayi.

However, according to CNN journalist Larry Madowo, most Americans were not interested in Ruto's speech when he had a joint speech with Joe Biden.

Most American cable news networks cut away as President Ruto started speaking at the White House... except CNN International, Madowo wrote on X

Rutos trip to the US cost the Kenyan taxpayers approximately Sh 1 billion.

The president began his trip by hiring a Sh 200 million private jet from Dubai to take him and his family to the U.S.

Others who accompanied the President were flown on business class using taxpayers' money.

The Kenyan DAILY POST








Friday, May 24, 2024 - United States President Joe Biden will disburse Ksh8 billion to Kenya today despite tough opposition from Republicans.

This money will partly be used for purchasing military equipment for Kenyan police officers being deployed to Haiti.

In March, it emerged that US lawmakers had blocked a request from the State Department to disburse the funds, arguing that the mission in Haiti was not made clear to the House.

To ensure that the mission continues as earlier planned, Biden bypassed Congress by using the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) to fast-track the disbursement.

The money among other things will be used for weapons that the Kenyan police will use to suppress Haiti gangs who have taken control of 80 per cent of the Caribbean nation.

According to reports, Kenya will be supplied with armoured vehicles, rifles and adequate ammunition to fight the gangs.

The money is also being used to facilitate operational logistics as well as accommodation for the Kenyan police.

On Monday, the Kenyan Government revealed that the officers would also receive monetary compensation for their efforts in Haiti.

The move by Biden to use PDA to fund the Kenya-led mission in Haiti has been vehemently opposed by Republicans led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul and Senate Foreign Relations Committee ranking member Jim Risch.

Among the concerns raised is that the weapons being given to Kenyan police will be from the Pentagon stockpile.

Republicans fear that this will significantly dent the stockpile making it hard for the US to support other missions they consider more important than Haiti.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Friday, May 24, 2024  President William Ruto went against the wish of the Haitian people by deploying Kenyan police officers to the troubled Caribbean nation.

This was evident after a group of Haiti nationals residing in the United States yesterday staged demonstrations outside Kenyas embassy in the USA at the time Ruto was being hosted by U.S. counterpart Joe Biden at the White House.

The Caribbeans could be spotted holding placards with written messages to Kenya's head of state as they demanded that Ruto stop his planned deployment to Haiti.

While marching around the Kenyan embassy in the U.S., the rowdy demonstrators could be heard chanting President Ruto's name as they demanded he reverse the decision (to deploy Kenyan troops to Haiti).

The protestors accused the U.S. government of instigating gang violence in Haiti and that it was ironic for America to similarly sponsor a peace-keeping mission in the war-ravaged country.

"What Ruto is about to do is to invade Haiti. Haitians say no to occupation," the protestors said as they vented their frustration on the imminent deployment.

Ruto, while commenting on the deployment, said the mission was approved by Kenyans and not the US as alleged and that Kenya was ready to save Haitians from the gang violence.

On his part, Joe Biden clarified that the US could not be involved directly in the mission because it could have been misinterpreted and thus it rallied Kenya to help end the violence in the Caribbean nation.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Friday, May 24, 2024 - Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the brutal murder of a woman, Alberta Armah Hagan and her two daughters in their apartment at Net Link Estate in Kasoa, in the Central Region, Ghana.

The suspect, who is reportedly the deceaseds boyfriend, is believed to have committed the heinous crime over a dispute involving mobile money transfers.

Madam Alberta allegedly lodged a complaint with the police recently, accusing her boyfriend of illicitly transferring GH20,000 sent by her ex-husband in the US for their daughters.

Investigators believe that in a bid to avoid facing the consequences of this report, the suspect chose to kill Alberta and her daughters.

Madam Alberta and her daughters were discovered dead with multiple stab wounds this week.

The gruesome attack also left two of Albertas other children, aged 9 months and 6 years, with severe injuries.

The 6-year-old boy is currently in critical condition under police protection in the hospital, while the 9-month-old infant is also receiving medical care.

The Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, working to uncover the full extent of the crime and any additional motives behind the attack.
Luzhou in SW China launches mini app to encourage low-carbon lifestyles among citizens

15:34, May 24, 2024 By Li Kaixuan ( People's Daily

Photo shows an offline activity held by the "Green Bud Score" mini app. (Photo provided by the Luzhou municipal bureau of ecology and environment)

Amidst the growing emphasis on a green, low-carbon lifestyle, a burning question arises: how can an individual's carbon reduction efforts be quantified and recorded? Could they manifest as a visible "carbon wallet" or carbon asset?

The "Lyuya Jifen" mini app on WeChat, which translates into "Green Bud Score," developed by environmental authorities in Luzhou, southwest China's Sichuan province, exactly provides an answer to the question.

Tracking her low-carbon practices on the mini app has become a habit for Luzhou resident Pan Yan, who would always log 144 grams of carbon reduction on it and gain five scores after emptying her plate once and take public transportation by scanning QR codes to get 10 scores while logging 80 grams of carbon reduction.

Leveraging a carbon reduction digital ledger developed by the All-China Environment Federation and innovatively applying carbon reduction methodologies, the "Green Bud Score" mini app has formulated a transparent and reliable algorithm for tracking individual green lifestyles.

Citizens redeem scores gained on the "Green Bud Score" mini app for birdseed for black-headed gulls in Luzhou, southwest China's Sichuan province. (Photo provided by the Luzhou municipal bureau of ecology and environment)

Bridging data silos across disparate platforms such as WeChat Sports, public transportation and banks, the mini app collects, stores and analyzes low-carbon behaviors in real time, including walking, no-drive days and green finance. This digitalized approach holistically captures users' carbon footprints in almost every aspect of daily life, enabling them to join carbon reduction efforts with just a few taps on their smartphones.

"The scores are useful," Pan said, as she excitedly browsed an online marketplace in the mini app, where over 100 gift cards and commodities can be redeemed with the scores, including stationery, home appliances, and skin care products.

"The incentive mechanism works well and encourages more people to embrace low-carbon lifestyles," Pan told People's Daily.

Besides, the "Green Bud Score" mini app also hosts novel and captivating volunteering activities tailored to Luzhou's ecological conservation initiatives. For instance, users can have a Procypris rabaudi, a locally found cyprinid species, released with 150 scores, and 100 scores would allow them to buy birdseed for black-headed gulls, a locally beloved species.

Citizens join a tree planting activity hosted by the "Green Bud Score" mini app. (Photo provided by the Luzhou municipal bureau of ecology and environment)

"These distinctive activities provide a stronger sense of participation," Pan said.

These low-carbon behaviors have brought changes to Pan's life. Emptying the plates has become a habit of her, while used books and clothes are always donated or recycled. Besides, Pan and her child would always read books about environmental protection.

So far, Pan has logged total carbon reduction of 170,050 grams, equivalent to saving 170 kilowatt-hours of electricity. "I've genuinely adopted a green, low-carbon lifestyle," she said.

Since its launch, the "Green Bud Score" mini app has attracted over 350,000 registered users, including over 40,000 daily active users. Together, they have generated over 54 million scores and recorded more than 320 tons of carbon reductions.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
The Herald reports:

When Whanau Ora chief executive John Tamihere was asked what his expectations for the Budget next Thursday were, he said: All hope is lost.

Last year Whanau Ora was allocated $163.1 million in the Budget to last for the next four years but Tamihere is confident Maori will draw the short straw this year.

I dont have any hope. Our mate from the Hope Foundation does, but I dont.

Tamihere is saying that thanks to the policies of the coalition Government, the affluent will stand ahead of the poverty-stricken this year.
Auburn, IN (46706)

Today

Cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later in the day. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 73F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. Low 52F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
ILLIT's Wonhee, a member of the popular K-pop group, has been sent to the hospital for medical treatment following a barrage of malicious comments. This development has sparked a wave of reactions from netizens, highlighting concerns about the handling of artists' health and controversies within the industry.

BELIFT LAB, the agency representing ILLIT, released a statement regarding Wonhee's health status and her absence from scheduled activities. The agency stated:

"Due to her poor health condition, she received medical treatment today. According to the medical staff, she will not attend the Hannam University festival scheduled for today (May 23). We hope that the students and fans can understand our decision. We plan to prioritize our artists' health while organizing schedules, and we will do our best to ensure that Wonhee can recover well and meet with fans again. Thank you."

Recent controversy surrounding ILLIT involves allegations of plagiarism made by ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin, another label under HYBE. This led to a flood of malicious comments directed at ILLIT during a live broadcast, with fans noticing Wonhee reporting these comments.

IN CASE YOU MISSED THIS: K-Netz Express Dissatisfaction About ILLIT Wonhee Being Visuals of Group: 'She's Not Ugly But' In response, ILLIT's agency filed a complaint against Min Hee Jin for causing damage to the group with false claims. BELIFT LAB clarified:

"We would like to state clearly that the claims made by CEO Min regarding plagiarism against our artists are not true. We have submitted evidence to prove the allegations false, and we will take the necessary steps, although long, to reveal the truth."

Netizens expressed disappointment with the agency's approach, particularly in using Wonhee's health issue to highlight the complaint against Min Hee Jin.

Comments on theqoo platform reflected this sentiment:

"This is sad for her, but why are they blaming Min Hee Jin? Min Hee Jin didn't hate on ILLIT."

"It's so sad they are using her being sick to release an article. Stop using young kids...the company is getting the most hate...they have no care for protecting the artists."

"Guess they have nothing to say about ILLIT's official account following a malicious account."

"It's HYBE that couldn't handle things well. Why are they putting it all on Min Hee Jin?"

"Guess they have nothing to say about ILLIT's official account following a malicious account."

"They're tying this in together like this? Wow might as well say that global warming is accelerating because of Min Hee Jin lol."

YOU MIGHT BA ALSO INTERESTED IN: Netizens Cry Foul Over ILLIT Wonhee's Report of Hate Comments - Strategy or Sympathy?

For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.
Seoul, South Korea - On May 24, NewJeans' performance at Music Bank garnered widespread attention not just for their music, but for their extraordinary treatment of fans.

Several fans who attended the performance shared their delightful experiences on social media, showcasing the generous gifts they received from the group.

Fans took to Twitter to express their gratitude and excitement, sharing pictures and descriptions of the lavish care packages. The gifts included luxury Carin sunglasses, lunch boxes, snacks, and adorable hairbands designed for their lightsticks.

This gesture left fans in awe and further solidified NewJeans' reputation for caring deeply about their supporters.

One fan, @uewjeans, posted, "NewJeans' legendary gift to fans at Music Bank. Carin Sunglasses, snacks, cookies, brunch... They are the best... There will never be a care package like this again. Guys, I'm so thankful."

   !!!!

 ,, ,, ,, ,,, ...

   ...

   pic.twitter.com/OQireVaOPY   (@uewjeans) May 24, 2024

Another fan, @tomatofrogcat, shared a similar sentiment: "Gifts for Music Bank, May 24. Carin sunglasses, lunch, snacks."

The generosity did not go unnoticed, with fans like @Cxnzuu expressing heartfelt thanks, "NewJeans' gift for fans. Guys, thank you so much. You did so well today."

The thoughtful gesture extended beyond just the physical gifts.

According to fans, ADOR, NewJeans' agency, also provided adorable hairbands for the group's lightsticks, adding a cute and personalized touch to the fan experience.

READ MORE: NewJeans Fans Launch Campaign to Prevent Min Hee-jin's Exit - Is This the End?

Netizens quickly reacted to the news, flooding social media with praise for NewJeans, Min Hee Jin, and ADOR.

Comments ranged from admiration to envy, with many highlighting the exceptional effort put into appreciating the fans. Screenshots from various online platforms captured the overwhelming positive reactions.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE FANS' REACTIONS:

"They really take good care of their fans... Daebak." "I'm jealous... and envious...." "Wow, that's right. This is how the PR team should be spending money!" "I'm so jealous of the fans who went to the recording, . They even got to see the girls." "I'm sure the sunglasses were sponsored! I think a brand sponsored lipsticks to fans of Yoobin or Suzy. I read that somewhere... Still, it must be nice that the artists are so popular that they could do this..."

The gifts also sparked conversations about the role of sponsorships in such fan interactions, with some netizens speculating that the luxurious Carin sunglasses might have been sponsored.

Regardless, the consensus was clear:NewJeans' thoughtful approach to fan engagement was highly appreciated and set a new standard for fan service.

In a time where fan interactions often happen through screens, NewJeans' efforts to connect with their supporters in such a tangible and memorable way highlight the group's dedication and appreciation for their fans.

This Music Bank performance will be remembered not just for the music, but for the extraordinary kindness shown by NewJeans to their dedicated fanbase.

ALSO READ: Member of Mexican Girl Group Jeans Mentions NewJeans On Instagram Amid Plagiarism Allegations

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.
Following reports that claimed Seungri was planning to establish a nightclub in Hong Kong, the government has spoken up to clarify the matter.

On May 23, several Hong Kong-based news outlets claimed Seungri had permanently moved to Hong Kong and plans to open a nightclub there. This comes after a netizen claimed their friend saw Seungri in Creamfields Hong Kong, a popular music festival in the region.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Ex-BIGBANG Seungri Reportedly Plans To Open New Club Despite Previous Burning Sun Scandal

There, it was revealed the former BIGBANG member was planning to do business in the East Tsim Sha Tsui area. Reportedly, Seungri is actively socializing with alcohol distributors and owners of nightclubs. He is also seen with women on his arm, which the netizens claim are gold diggers.

Following the reports, the Hong Kong Government has released an official statement denying the claims.

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: Past Video of iKON 'Outing' Seungri on Show Garners Attention Amid Renewed Burning Sun Controversy

In their statement, it was revealed that a spokesperson for the HKSAR Government stated that they have not received any visa application from Seungri for any talent admission schemes. The government will make sure to do its part in ensuring only applications from eligible people are approved.

They also added that South Korean nations can enjoy visa-free travel in Hong Kong for 90 days or less.

CHECK THIS OUT: VIPs Recall Times BIGBANG Warned Seungri: 'You Might Go To Jail, Don't Be A Fraud'

Their whole statement reads,

"In relation to media reports about a former Korean artiste who planned to move to Hong Kong and the talent admission schemes of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government were mentioned, a spokesman for the HKSAR Government clarified today (May 23) that the HKSAR Government has not received any visa application by the said person for any talent admission schemes. The relevant government departments will, in accordance with the established mechanism, play a robust gatekeeping role when processing applications for talent admission schemes to ensure only applications of eligible persons will be approved. Currently, nationals of Korea (Republic of) can enjoy a visa-free period in Hong Kong for a visit not exceeding 90 days."

Seungri is currently under the public eye after the BBC released a documentary on the 2018-2019 "Burning Sun" scandal. The documentary detailed Seungri and other popular male celebrities' involvement in the scandal, noting how the club Seungri owned, Burning Sun, was a hub for illegal activity, such as drug abuse, rape, harassment, illegal filming of sexual acts (often non-consensual), and more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: BBC Documentary Unveils Horrors of Seungri's Nightclub - 'VIP Parties to VIP Hell'

What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

KpopStarz Owns This

Written by Alexa Lopez
Though NewJeans just released "How Sweet," they were immediately embroiled in plagiarism accusations. However, Korean netizens immediately rushed to defend them.

On May 24, NewJeans unveiled the music video for their latest single, "How Sweet." The song is a vibrant hip-hop track inspired by Miami Bass influences, which perfectly compliments the girl group's unique, hip style.

While Bunnies were ecstatic about the release, there was some negative press surrounding NewJeans due to ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin's ongoing conflict with HYBE. Soon after the video was released, YouTuber Tiona (literal translation) uploaded a video comparing "How Sweet" to two songs.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Fans Rave Over NewJeans' Incredible Gifts at Music Bank - 'This Is How Their Money Should Be Spent!'

According to the YouTuber, "How Sweet" bears similarities to Midnight Fusic's "Summer Love" and Karencitta's "F.U.I.L.Y." The similarities come from the tempo and rhythm of the song. The rhyme of which NewJeans sings the song is extremely similar to how the other two artists' performed their songs.

However, netizens soon rushed to NewJean's defense. It was pointed out that the melody has been used in several songs, especially those that utilize the Miami Bass or House Drum genre. Therefore, this alone is not enough to accuse NewJeans of plagiarism.

Some mentioned the plagiarism accusations of LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT, pointing out that there is a substantial basis to accuse the two aforementioned girl groups of copying. However, the same cannot be said for NewJeans's case.

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: HYBE Addresses Reports Surrounding ADOR's Management Changes - Here's What The Company Said

Netizens initially believed the video was made by a HYBE part-timer, or a HYBE fanatic since the video was released just mere hours after NewJeans's song was released. However, it was soon discovered that the video was made by an anonymous internet user who is part of the online community forum DC Inside.

A user took the credit for the post, saying it took them two hours to do and they wondered if they were going to upload it. They then mocked Min Hee Jin for crying for two hours during her press conference and how she claimed K-pop should not be similar, which they stated as their main reason for uploading the video.

People noted that it made sense someone from DC Inside made the video. While the public has been largely in support of Min Hee Jin, DC Inside is known as a community where "incels" and "trolls" with toxic masculinity and pro-misogyny ideals loiter.

CHECK THIS OUT: NewJeans Fans Launch Campaign to Prevent Min Hee-jin's Exit - Is This the End?

The DC Inside community has been largely pro-HYBE because of their hatred towards Min Hee Jin, a woman who is considered one of the brightest and most creative minds in K-pop.

After hearing that the person who made the video was from DC Inside, Korean netizens immediately bashed them. They stated that the vibes of the site are disgusting, with some joking that the members "stink." Others pitied LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT, as DC Inside has largely supported the two groups.

What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

FOR YOU: Bunny Rages Online Regarding NewJeans' Plagiarism Accusations: 'I'm So Dumbfounded'

KpopStarz Owns This

Written by Alexa Lopez
Pharmacists of the Jiangning traditional Chinese medicine hospital prepare ingredients to produce traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) decoctions in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province, July 27, 2021. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)

East China's Jiangsu Province has announced a comprehensive plan to improve traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) services, leveraging the unique strengths of TCM to elevate the overall quality of medical services.

As part of its strategy, Jiangsu will boost the capacity of TCM-focused institutions to handle outpatient and emergency services. The plan includes the establishment of multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment teams, aiming to strengthen the integration of TCM approaches within the health care system.

The economic powerhouse province will also enhance TCM services at the county level, encouraging community health services centers and township hospitals to offer clinical services that combine Chinese and Western medicine.

Additionally, the province is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for the development of TCM. Medical institutions will be encouraged to provide personalized TCM services for patients.

Zarazeno pa 24.05.2024 05:05:30 Vydano Zdroj scio.gov.cn Original english.scio.gov.cn/pressroom/2024-05/24/content_117210687.htm lang en
Xi chairs symposium, urges further reform to advance Chinese modernization

Xinhua) 08:03, May 24, 2024

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

JINAN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday stressed the need to deepen reform further across the board with efforts centering on advancing Chinese modernization.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks while chairing a symposium in Jinan, Shandong Province, attended by representatives from businesses and academia.

"Reform is the driving force for development," Xi said, noting that to deepen reform further on all fronts, efforts should be focused on the overarching goals of improving and developing the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, and modernizing China's governance system and capacity.

He added that China should take resolute steps to remove the ideological and institutional barriers hindering the advancement of Chinese modernization, and double down on its efforts to resolve deep-seated institutional challenges and structural issues.

Xi's trip to Shandong is the first local inspection he has made since the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau held a meeting on April 30.

It was decided at the meeting that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be held in Beijing in July, and that the session will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization.

Nine representatives including entrepreneurs from state-owned, private and foreign-funded enterprises spoke at the symposium to put forward opinions and suggestions on deepening reform across the board, covering such issues as developing venture capital investment, upgrades of traditional industries, improving the corporate governance of private enterprises and optimizing the business environment for foreign enterprises.

It is the CPC's consistent approach and fine tradition to conduct in-depth research and extensively solicit opinions from various parties before making major decisions and formulating important documents, Xi said, adding that relevant departments should carefully study and absorb opinions and suggestions for further deepening reform in an all-round way that were brought up during the symposium.

China should adhere to and develop its basic economic system and work to build a high-level socialist market economy system, Xi said.

Economic system reform should start from meeting realistic needs and tackling the most urgent matters, and should advance theoretical and institutional innovation in the process of solving practical problems, he added.

"The Chinese people's aspiration for a better life is the goal we have been striving for, and the ultimate purpose of advancing reform and promoting development is to improve the livelihood of the people," Xi said.

He emphasized the need to identify the key areas of reform and achieve breakthroughs based on the pressing concerns and aspirations of the general public, including employment, income growth, education, healthcare, housing, government services, childcare, elderly care, personal safety, and property security.

Xi stressed that no matter how and where reform goes, certain "fundmental things" must not be compromised, including upholding the overall leadership of the Party, adhering to Marxism, sticking to the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and upholding the people's democratic dictatorship.

"At the same time, we must dare to innovate and do a good job in reforming what should be and could be reformed, and persist in our efforts once we find the right path," Xi said.

Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, who are also members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the symposium.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, communicates with representatives from businesses and academia attending a symposium in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. Xi chaired the symposium and delivered an important speech here on Thursday. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Jianzi mastery: astounding skills in North China contest amaze netizens

(People's Daily App) 16:10, May 24, 2024

A video showcasing participants demonstrating their amazing Jianzi, or Chinese shuttlecock, skills during a competition in Langfang, North China's Hebei Province has amazed netizens on China's short video platform. Jianzi is a traditional sport originating in China, where players aim to keep a heavily weighted shuttlecock in the air using various body parts without hands.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Hutech Inc., USA, Welcomes Padmavati B. Patil as the Vice President of Engineering and Business Growth

India PR Distribution

New Delhi [India], May 24: Hutech Inc., a subsidiary unit of Hutech Solutions, India, a leader in innovative AI-powered software solutions and services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Padmavati B. Patil as the new Vice President of Engineering and Business Growth, for its U.S. operations. With an impressive track record of nearly three decades in leadership roles at multinational corporations like Walmart, Gap Inc., Tyson Foods, and Scope Retail, Padma brings a wealth of experience and expertise to drive Hutech Solutions' engineering excellence and business expansion.

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Padma Patil joins Hutech Inc. following her most recent role as Chief Delivery Officer at Scope Retail Systems Inc. In this position, she was responsible for the success of Scope's products, overseeing end-to-end project execution, delivery, operational excellence, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Her strategic vision and operational acumen significantly contributed to Scope's success and customer loyalty.

Prior to her tenure at Scope Retail Systems Inc., Padma was the Director of Product Management for the Data Platform at Gap Inc., where she led various strategic product initiatives. Her leadership in this role was instrumental in advancing Gap Inc.'s data strategy, enhancing the company's ability to leverage data for business insights and decision-making.

Also Read | Shikhar Dhawan Pens Down Special Farewell Note For Dinesh Karthik As the Latter Retires From IPL (See Post).

Padma also had a glorious career at Walmart, spanning over eight years, where she was responsible for driving significant impact and leading Data and Analytics platforms and teams.

Her comprehensive experience across various facets of businesses and technologies positions her uniquely to contribute to Hutech Solutions' growth trajectory.

"We are thrilled to welcome Padma Patil to our Leadership team," said Pravat Ranjan Rana, CEO of Hutech Solutions. "Her extensive experience in leading high-performing teams and delivering exceptional results aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovation and excellence. We are confident that Padma will play a crucial role in driving our engineering capabilities and business growth."

Padma B. Patil expressed her enthusiasm about joining Hutech Inc.: "I am excited to be a part of Hutech, a company known for its innovative approach and customer-centric solutions. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to further elevate our engineering standards and expand our business footprint in the US market."

Hutech Solutions is poised for significant growth, and with Padma's leadership, the company is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious goals and continue delivering outstanding technology solutions to its clients.

About Hutech Inc. USA:

Hutech Inc., is a subsidiary unit of Hutech Solutions. Hutech Solutions is a premier technology firm specializing in developing innovative AI-powered software solutions and services designed to drive growth, enhance efficiency, and revolutionize industries. With a focus on customer-centric innovation, Hutech Solutions delivers products that empower businesses to achieve their strategic objectives and competitive edge in a fast-paced market.

For further information, please contact:

corporate@hutechsolution.com

Hutech Solutions

www.hutechsolutions.com

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by India PR Distribution. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Ambala, May 24: At least seven members of the same family died and more than 20 got injured after a mini-bus met with an accident on National Highway in the Ambala district of Haryana on Friday, said officials. The victims were pilgrims travelling to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

According to Dr Kaushal Kumar, Medical Officer, Civil Hospital Ambala Cantt, the accident occurred on the Ambala-Delhi-Jammu National Highway early today. Haryana School Bus Accident: 'Driver Was Drunk, Kept Overspeeding,' Says Injured Student After Six Children Die as Vehicle Overturns in Mahendragarh (Watch Video).

Mini-Bus Meets With Accident in Ambala

Haryana | Seven people died and more than 20 people were injured in a bus accident on the Ambala-Delhi-Jammu National Highway: Dr. Kaushal Kumar, Civil Hospital, Ambala Cantt https://t.co/Iu332pIKq4 pic.twitter.com/6JcaJ4gxSv  ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2024

Kumar further confirmed that more than 20 passengers were injured in the incident. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident. Further details are awaited.

(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, May 24 (PTI) Dr Krishna Ella, co-founder and Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech, has been awarded the prestigious Dean's medal by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the Hyderabad-based pharma company said on Friday.

The award was presented to him by Dean Ellen J MacKenzie during the Bloomberg School's Convocation Ceremony held on May 22 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Dr Ella received the award for his exceptional leadership, enduring vision and contribution to improving public health, the firm said in a statement.

"John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health acknowledges Dr Ella's pioneering work, remarkable influence, and determination to develop an indigenous, innovative, and safe vaccine focused on global public health," the statement said.

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This is the school's highest honour, reserved for outstanding public health researchers and practitioners who demonstrate exceptional leadership in safeguarding and improving public health.

"I acknowledge this medal as a global recognition of India's scientific excellence and dedicate this medal to Bharat, which has shown remarkable success by advancing science and research and development, our exemplary team of scientists, and the results of our strong commitment to public," Dr Ella was quoted in the statement.

Among many other accomplishments, Dr Ella's contributions to shaping India's policies on science, research and innovation have made possible the development of vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, including Covaxin -- India's own COVID-19 vaccine -- which has saved countless lives, the statement said.

Under Dr Ella's guidance, Bharat Biotech manufactured the first indigenous rotavirus vaccine (Rotavac), the first WHO-prequalified Typhoid conjugate vaccine (Tybar TCV) and Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine, JENVAC, it said.

These vaccines were made available to the poorest countries at low cost, saving thousands of lives of the poorest children worldwide, the statement claimed.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Bharat Biotech developed Covaxin, indigenous COVID-19 vaccine in a record time, conducting the largest-ever human clinical trials and peer-reviewed by world-leading medical journals, it stated.

(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 [India], May 24 (ANI): Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Friday reviewed the preparedness for the impending cyclone in the Bay of Bengal, directing authorities concerned to ensure zero loss of lives and minimize damage to property.

Reviewing the preparedness measures of the Central agencies and the Government of West Bengal, the Cabinet Secretary stressed that "all necessary preventive and precautionary measures may be taken by the state government and Central agencies."

Also Read | Dombivli Boiler Blast: Death Toll Rises To 13, Fugitive Owners of Amudan Chemical Factory Arrested From Thane and Nashik.

"The aim should be to keep the loss of lives to zero and minimize damage to property and infrastructure such as power and telecom, and in case of damage, the essential services should be restored in the shortest possible time," Gauba directs while chairing National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) meeting.

The Cabinet secretary said that it must be ensured that the fishermen at sea are called back and people from vulnerable areas are evacuated well in time.

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He asked the government of West Bengal to review the placement of large hoardings in the areas likely to be affected by the cyclonic storm.

The Cabinet secretary assured the Government of West Bengal that all Central agencies are on full alert and will be available for assistance.

The Director General, of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), briefed the Committee about the current status of the depression over the central Bay of Bengal, about 800 km south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh) and 810 km south of Canning (West Bengal).

It is very likely to move northeastwards and intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm by night of May 25. Thereafter, it will move nearly northwards and very likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around May 26 midnight as a severe cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph from the evening of May 26.

The Chief Secretary of West Bengal apprised the Committee of the preparatory measures being taken to protect the population in the expected path of the cyclonic storm and measures being taken by the local administration. Fishermen have been asked not to venture out into the sea and those at sea have been called to safe berth. District Control Rooms have also been activated and are monitoring the situation. Adequate shelters, power supply, medicine and emergency services have been kept in readiness.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 12 teams and five additional teams are kept on standby. Rescue and relief teams of the Army, Navy and Coast Guard along with ships and aircraft have been kept in readiness. Regular alerts and advisories are being sent by DG, Shipping to the ports of Kolkata and Paradip. Emergency teams have been deployed by the Ministry of Power for immediate power restoration.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary of West Bengal, Union Home Secretary, Secretaries in the Ministries of Power, Telecom, Ports Shipping and Waterways, Petroleum and Natural Gas and Department of Fisheries besides Member Secretary National Disaster Management Authority, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), Director General India Meteorological Department, Director General National Disaster Response Force, Director General Coast Guard and senior officers from the Ministry of Home Affairs. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, May 24 (PTI) The Delhi High Court on Friday permitted payment app BharatPe's former MD Ashneer Grover and his wife, facing prosecution in a cheating and forgery case, to travel abroad by directing them to furnish a surety of Rs 80 crore each.

While the couple intended to travel together to the USA from May 26 to July 1, the court permitted them to go abroad one at a time.

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On the suggestion of petitioners' counsel, the court allowed Grover to travel to the USA from May 26 to June 12 and his wife Madhuri Jain Grover from June 12 to July 1.

Justice Subramonium Prasad said the couple shall not extend the dates of travel and shall return to India on the given dates. He made it clear that any application for the extension of stay abroad will not be entertained.

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They sought the permission to travel abroad to meet their extended family members in the USA and also submitted that their son has been invited for a summer course -- National Student Leadership Conference -- at the University of California, Berkeley from June 17 to June 25.

Look Out Circulars (LOC) were issued against them at the instance of the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in November last year in connection with the investigation in a cheating and forgery case.

The counsel for the EOW strongly objected to the pleas and raised strong objections to the present applications stating that if the petitioner and his wife are allowed to travel abroad, there is a strong possibility that they will not return to the country.

The petitioners' counsel suggested that to satisfy the investigating authorities that the couple will not flee from the country, instead of travelling together they may be permitted to go separately.

The high court, in its order, said, "The purpose of opening a Look Out Circular against a person is to ensure that the investigation is not thwarted. This court is inclined to consider the suggestion given by the counsel for the petitioners and is of the opinion that if one of the spouses remains in the country, the possibility of the other spouse not returning back is remote."

The court, which imposed several conditions on them, said the other spouse shall not leave the country during the period when one of them is travelling abroad and shall deposit the passport with the investigating authority till the other person returns to India.

"The petitioner is directed to furnish a security for a sum of Rs 80 crore in the form of an FDR before the registrar of this court," Justice Prasad said in the separate but similar order passed on both the petitions.

They are directed to deposit the original title deeds of the property in their respective names, the court said.

It added that the couple has to furnish details of their itinerary during their stay abroad and shall deposit their Emirates ID issued by the United Arab Emirates Government to this court.

"In case any of the above conditions are violated, the security shall be forfeited to the State," it said.

In May last year, the EOW filed an FIR against Grover, his wife Madhuri and others under eight sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating and dishonesty), 467 and 468 (forgery) and 471 (using forged documents as genuine) for an alleged Rs 81-crore fraud after a complaint by fintech unicorn BharatPe.

BharatPe in the complaint alleged that Grover and his family caused damages of about Rs 81.3 crore through illegitimate payments to bogus human resource consultants, inflated and undue payments through pass-through vendors connected to the accused, sham transactions in input tax credit and payment of penalty to GST authorities, illegal payment to travel agencies, forged invoices by Madhuri and destruction of evidence.

Madhuri was the head of controls at BharatPe and was fired in 2022 after a forensic audit revealed several irregularities. Subsequently, Grover resigned as CEO in March 2022.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Panaji, May 24 (PTI) Goa Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane on Friday said his department will register first information reports (FIRs) against persons violating the Preservation of Trees Act.

People take permission from the deputy conservators of forest from the North and South Goa divisions to fell trees citing some requirements, but end up violating the Preservation of Trees Act, the minister told PTI.

Also Read | Dombivli Boiler Blast Update: Thane Chemical Factory Owners Knew Lapses Might Lead to Explosion, Says FIR.

"Once they get permission, people go completely against the rules," he said.

Rane said directions have been issued to the principal chief conservator of Forest to register FIRs against violators, and the department will come down heavily on them.

Also Read | Heatwave in Jammu and Kashmir: Weather Office Issues Advisory As Heat Wave To Continue in J&K for Next Five Days.

Rane, who heads the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department, said action will be taken against people involved in illegal landfilling.

Several cases of illegal landfilling have been brought to the government's notice, and the department is probing them, he said.

The minister said that Bicholim MLA Chandrakant Shetye had recently filed a complaint against the illegal plotting of land at Mencurem village in his constituency, Bicholim.

The department will initiate action against illegal plotting, 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)
New Delhi, May 24 (PTI) Amid scorching summer, the total live storage available in 150 key reservoirs across India is 24 per cent of the total live storage capacity, marking a 21 per cent decrease recorded during the same period last year, according to official data.

The Central Water Commission (CWC) released its weekly bulletin on Friday on the live storage status of 150 key reservoirs across India, revealing a significant decline in water levels compared to last year.

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The southern region, encompassing Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, is the most affected. The 42 reservoirs in this region have a total capacity of 53.334 BCM, with current storage at just 7.455 BCM (14 per cent). This is significantly lower than last year's 25 per cent and the normal 20 per cent.

The total live storage available is 43.293 billion cubic meters (BCM), which is 24 per cent of the total live storage capacity of these reservoirs.

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This marks a 21 per cent decrease from the 55.037 BCM recorded during the same period last year and is also below the normal storage of 45.480 BCM, based on the average of the last ten years.

The current storage represents 79 per cent of last year's levels and 95 per cent of the ten-year average normal storage.

The northern states of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Rajasthan have 10 monitored reservoirs with a combined live storage capacity of 19.663 BCM, but currently hold only 5.554 BCM (28 per cent). This is a decline from last year's 37 per cent and below the normal 31 per cent.

In contrast, the eastern region, which includes Assam, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Tripura, Nagaland, and Bihar, shows a slight improvement. The 23 reservoirs in this region have a total capacity of 20.430 BCM, with current storage at 6.013 BCM (29 per cent). This is better than last year's 26 per cent and the normal 28 per cent.

Gujarat and Maharashtra are experiencing lower storage levels compared to the last year.

The 49 reservoirs in this region have a combined capacity of 37.130 BCM, but are currently at 9.400 BCM (25 per cent), down from last year's 29 per cent but slightly above the normal 24 per cent.

The central states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are also facing reduced storage levels. Their 26 reservoirs, with a total capacity of 48.227 BCM, currently hold 14.871 BCM (31 per cent). This is lower than last year's 38 per cent but above the normal 29 per cent.

Further analysis shows that storage levels are highly variable across different river basins.

The Ganga, Subarnarekha, Brahmaputra, Barak, Brahmani, Baitarni, Narmada, Tapi and Sabarmati basins have better than normal storage.

However, the Krishna, east flowing rivers between Pennar and Kanyakumari, and Cauvery basins are deficient. The east flowing rivers between Mahanadi and Pennar are highly deficient.

(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, May 24 (PTI) Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Friday that the heavy voter turnout in four of the total five Lok Sabha seats in Jammu and Kashmir reflects the people's will to make Kashmir a part of India's growth story.

He said even as the Kashmir-centric regional political parties like the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) continue to raise the issue of Article 370 in their election campaign, the common masses in the Kashmir valley are indifferent to the issue.

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"The heavy turnout of the voters reflects the will of people to make Kashmir a part of India's growth story instead of being tied down by the self-seeking slogans and rhetoric of the political parties hankering after Article 370 or the so-called special status for Kashmir," said Singh, the Union minister of state for personnel.

People of the Kashmir valley are enthusiastic to be a part of the ongoing election process and to move on as a part of India's development journey, he said.

Also Read | Voter Turnout Data: Supreme Court Rejects Plea To Direct EC To Upload Polling Station-Wise Voter Turnout Data Amid Lok Sabha Elections, Says Hands-Off Approach Needed.

The minister said the election in the Kashmir valley is truly the celebration of the festival of democracy in letter and spirit.

Singh is a sitting Lok Sabha member seeking re-election from Udhampur constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, voting for which was held on April 19.

Polling for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat in Jammu and Kashmir will be held on Saturday.

"The credit goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for having successfully broken the jinx and proven to the world that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Kashmir valley, are as much given to the democratic aspirations as anywhere else. While the voter turnout in Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency was around 59 per cent, it is expected to be higher in the polling to the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency," he said.

Singh said, "It is the conduciveness created by Prime Minister Modi and his government that even the opposition leaders are today enjoying the luxury of holding large public rallies in the valley."

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Thane (Maharashtra) [India], May 24 (ANI): The death toll from the boiler blast at a chemical factory in Dombivli has risen to 10, with rescue operations ongoing to retrieve two missing individuals.

Chairman of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, Siddhesh Kadam, inspected the site on Friday and said that they are working to complete this rescue operation as soon as possible.

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"There have been a total of 10 casualties here, with 2 people missing, so the rescue operation is ongoing. We are working to complete this rescue operation as soon as possible and dealing with the hazardous chemicals," Kadam said.

Under the directive of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Kadam reviewed the incident and discussed plans to prevent future tragedies.

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"I am here at the site today to review this tragic incident under the direction of the Chief Minister. He has given strict instructions to provide all necessary support for the ongoing rescue operations and to prepare a plan to swiftly relocate the hazardous chemical unit from here. After this visit, we will have a meeting with our officers to finalize the plan, which we will then present to the Chief Minister," Kadam said.

When asked about the opposition's stand on the incident, he said, "I believe it is not appropriate to engage in politics at this place. If the opposition wants to contribute, they should not always oppose but also assist and support us."

Earlier in the day, Ambadas Danve, Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, criticized the lack of industrial safety measures in the area.

"There has been no Industrial Safety Department here. If you look at this area, such a factory should not have been here near the residential area and is the biggest crime...A technical person should have been here because a normal worker or labourer cannot handle a reactor. It is wrong to have such expectations from a normal labourer...The management of this factory is responsible for the blast. The Industrial Safety Department has been ignorant towards this. Under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray a meeting was held in this area," Danve said.

"There are around 450 factories in this area and an order was given to move all the chemical factories from this area...This is not the first accident in this industrial area since 2016 this is the fifth or sixth such accident," Danve added.

The increase in residential areas around the industrial zone has raised safety concerns.

"This used to be an industrial area, but over the years, the number of residents has increased. To prevent such incidents from recurring in the future, we are planning to either relocate the hazardous chemical unit to a safer place or repurpose the area for something else," Kadam said.

"This could have been very dangerous. Therefore, the hazardous chemical units in this area must be removed as soon as possible. We have made all the necessary plans, and the final approval will come after the Chief Minister's approval," he added, informing about the ongoing planning to remove hazardous chemical unit to some other place.

Meanwhile, Thane Police have registered a case against the company owners of Amudan Chemical Private Limited, Malti Pradeep Mehta, Malay Pradeep Mehta, and other officials under various sections of the IPC, including 304, 324, 326, 285, 286, 427, and 34. The accused are currently absconding, with five police teams formed to apprehend them.

"The accused is absconding after a case was registered against the Mehta family and the owner of the Amudan factory. A total of 5 teams have been formed to arrest the accused and are tracing the accused," Thane Police said.

According to the Thane Police, inadequate precautions in chemical processing and storage led to the explosion. The blast, which occurred on Thursday at a plant in Phase Two of the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area, was so powerful that it was heard several kilometers away. Initial reports indicated seven fatalities and 48 injuries, with large reactor pieces scattering up to a kilometer away.

"Proper precautions were not taken regarding the chemical process and the storage of the raw materials and final products, which led to chemical explosions," Thane Police added.

Efforts continue to manage the aftermath of this event and ensure the safety of the community.

Further details are awaited. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kolkata, May 24 (PTI) A rally by monks was organized in Kolkata on Friday condemning Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's recent remarks against certain monks of Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevasharam Sangha.

Christened as "Sant Swabhiman Yatra," the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) along with members of the Bangiya Sanyasi Samaj, an apex body of saints in the state, held the rally from North Kolkata's Bagbazar to Shimla Street, the ancestral residence of Swami Vivekananda.

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"We condemn the remarks by the honourable chief minister against us. We are pained and feel insulted by the derogatory remarks. She is not following Raj Dharma," a protesting monk said.

Senior VHP leader Sourish Mukherjee said, "Due to vote bank politics, the chief minister is making such remarks against revered institutions like Ramakrishna Mission and Bharat Sevasharam Sangha."

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In a recent election rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the TMC supremo of threatening monks for vote bank politics.

Banerjee, defending her stance, had said she only criticized specific individuals of those monastic orders and not the institutions.

Modi's remarks came a day after miscreants vandalised the Ramakrishna Mission (RKM) premises in Jalpaiguri and threatened monks and other employees at gunpoint.

An RKM official suggested that a local land mafia was behind the early Sunday morning incident, which was reportedly a matter of property dispute.

The RKM has lodged a complaint at Bhaktinagar police station against a local tough and his associates.

Following Banerjee's comment, political tension intensified as both the BJP and the TMC used the development to galvanize their respective support bases ahead of the elections.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kolkata, May 24 (PTI) The plot to murder Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar, which was hatched at least four to five months back, would give any crime thriller a run for its money, investigating officers of the West Bengal CID claimed on Friday.

From hiring a butcher in Dhaka to laying a honeytrap and luring the politician to Kolkata in the name of treatment, the plot was well-planned in January in Bangladesh's capital city, an officer of the West Bengal CID claimed.

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Anar's close friend, a US citizen, probably visited Dhaka a couple of times and used virtual platforms like Facetime and Telegram messenger to be in touch with his accomplices, the people in Bangladesh to hatch the plot to kill Anar.

It seemed that the butcher was "illegally brought" to India to help them execute the crime, the officer claimed.

Also Read | Dombivli Boiler Blast: Death Toll Rises To 13, Fugitive Owners of Amudan Chemical Factory Arrested From Thane and Nashik.

"It's unthinkable, the way Anar's body was mutilated and then skinned to hide his identity. The flesh and the bones were segregated and then chopped into smaller pieces before they were washed to remove blood before being mixed with turmeric powder and packed in smaller black plastic bags," he said.

Some parts of the body, probably the skull and long bones, were cut using a chopper and then put in a trolley before they were thrown away, he added.

"The MP's body was taken inside the bathroom where they chopped it. The bathroom was then cleaned repeatedly using water and detergent. The entire flat was also washed to remove blood stains.

After the murder and chopping the body into pieces, the culprits had food and alcohol in the flat, police claimed.

Probe also revealed that the MP's close friend, the US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime, he added.

State CID sleuths on Friday took the arrested person to the Bhangar area where the chopped body parts were put in plastic bags and scattered across different places, he said.

The butcher, CID officers said, was staying at the New Town flat for two and a half months.

"He planned to run away either to Mumbai or to Bangladesh which he could not but his accomplices did," he added.

The CID officer said that two of the criminals had put up at a hotel in New Market area in the heart of Kolkata for at least four days before "killing" Anar.

"They came back to the hotel on May 13 evening and checked out with two trolley bags. They returned on May 17 and purchased two trolley suitcases," he said, adding that one wheelchair was also purchased by them.

"The purpose of the wheelchair is under investigation," he said.

Police have collected blood samples from the stains from the New Town flat for forensic examination to confirm the identity, he said.

Circumstantial evidence indicated that the MP was first strangulated and killed after which his body was chopped into pieces, police claimed.

The search for the missing MP, who reportedly arrived in Kolkata on May 12 to undergo medical treatment, began after Gopal Biswas, a resident of Baranagar in north Kolkata and an acquaintance of the Bangladeshi politician, filed a complaint with the local police on May 18.

Anar had stayed at Biswas's house upon arrival.

In his complaint, Biswas stated that Anar left his Baranagar residence for a doctor's appointment in the afternoon of May 13, while stating that he would be back home for dinner.

Biswas claimed that the Bangladesh MP went incommunicado on May 17, which prompted him to file a missing complaint a day later.

(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 [India], May 24 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address two election rallies in Himachal Pradesh today ahead of the sixth and seventh phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 25 and June 1.

In Himachal Pradesh, election campaigning is intensifying as the Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held on June 1, coinciding with six Assembly by-elections in the seventh and final phase.

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Prominent campaigners from both major political parties, the BJP and Congress, are vigorously supporting their candidates.

Himachal Pradesh has four Lok Sabha seats: Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla, and Kangra. In 2019, the BJP had won all four Lok Sabha seats in the state.

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Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to speak at the BJP's Vijay Sankalp rally at Chaugan Ground in Nahan, the district headquarters of Sirmaur, in the morning in support of BJP candidate Suresh Kashyap.

Subsequently, he will address another rally at Paddal Ground in Mandi in support of BJP Lok Sabha candidate and actress Kangana Ranaut.

Kashyap is facing the main challenge from Congress candidate Vinod Sultanpuri, while actor turned politician Kangana is pitted against Congress candidate Vikramaditya Singh.

The state party chief Rajiv Bindal said that there is enthusiasm among the people of the state and are ready to welcome PM Modi.

"People have started gathering at the rally ground since early morning hours. The party is going to win all four parliamentary and six assembly by-elections in Himachal Pradesh. People of Himachal Pradesh and people across India want to elect Narendra Modi as Prime Minister for the third consecutive time".

He said that the people of Himachal Pradesh are eagerly waiting to listen to him.

Bindal said that people in Himachal Pradesh want to vote for the developmental policies of the Modi government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will campaign in two election rallies in Punjab this afternoon in Gurdaspur and Jalandhar.

PM Modi on Tuesday, addressed an election rally in Punjab's Patiala and strongly criticized the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party.

Launching a scathing attack at Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that if had he been the PM of the country at the time of the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, he would have reclaimed Kartarpur Sahib from Pakistan in return for the release of Pakistani soldiers.

"At the time of the Bangladesh War, we had 90,000 soldiers of Pakistan. The 'Hukum ka Ikka' was in our hands. If Modi had been there at that time, I would have taken Kartarpur Sahib from them and then released their soldiers. Still, I got Kartarpur Sahib Corridor built," he said.

In Punjab, voting for its 13 seats will take place in a single phase, with the seventh and final phase on June 1 seeing voting in Gurudaspur, Amritsar, Khadoor Sahib, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Nandpur Sahib, Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Faridkot, Firozpur, Bathinda, Sangrur, and Patiala constituencies. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bathinda (Punjab) [India], May 24 (ANI): Bathinda police in Punjab recovered Rs 1.20 crore from a person travelling in a bus in Punjab's Doomwali village, officials said.

https://x.com/PunjabPoliceInd/status/1793636470219321593

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"During a nakabandi at Doomwali village, Bathinda Police (PS Sangat) intercepted a bus and recovered Rs 1,20,00,000 (One Crore Twenty Lakh Rupees) from an individual," Punjab police India posted on X on Thursday.

"The person in possession of the cash failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for carrying such a large sum," police said.

Also Read | Lucknow Shocker: Man Beaten to Death at Birthday Party After Brawl in UP, Probe Underway.

The cash has been handed over to the Income Tax authority for further necessary action, they added.

In another separate development, Tarn Taran police seized 30 kilograms of Ganja and Rs 50,00 in drug money on Thursday.

In a post on X, Punjab Police India said, "In a major success against drug smuggling, Tarn Taran Police apprehended a suspect and seized 30 Kg Charas (Ganja) and Rs 50,000 in drug money".

A case has been registered at Tarn Taran city police station and further investigation is underway, they added.

Earlier, BSF and Punjab Police, in a joint operation, busted a cross-border illegal weapons and drugs smuggling racket.

One person was arrested and 3.124 kg of heroin was seized by the Tarn Taran Police. They also recovered 1 pistol, 5 magazines, 111 rounds, 2 weighing scales and Rs 3 lakh, as per police.

DGP Punjab police had said in a post on X, "Tarn Taran Police in a joint operation with BSF busted a cross-border illegal weapons and drugs smuggling racket with arrest of 1 person and seizure of 3.124 Kg Heroin, one pistol, five magazines, 111 rounds, 2 Weighing scale and Rs 3 Lakh drug money."

According to the DGP of Punjab Police, drones were used to transport drugs from Pakistan across the border in the Tarn Taran area.

"Investigations ongoing to establish backward and forward linkages for more recoveries and arrests. Punjab Police is fully committed to maintain peace and harmony in the state," DGP had said. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, May 24: The Tis Hazari Court of Delhi remanded Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar four days of judicial custody on Friday in connection with the alleged Swati Maliwal assault case. He was produced before the court after five days of police custody.

Meanwhile, a bail application has also been moved on behalf of Bibhav Kumar. The court has listed the matter for hearing on Monday and sought a response from the Delhi police. Metropolitan Magistrate Gaurav Goyal remanded Bibhav Kumar in judicial proceedings after hearing submissions of Delhi Police and defence counsels, Rajiv Mohan and Rajat Bhardwaj. Arvind Kejriwal on Swati Maliwal Assault Case: 'Want Fair Probe, Justice in Maliwal Assault Case As Incident Has Two Versions', Says Delhi CM.

After producing Bibhav Kumar, Delhi police sought four days of judicial custody of him. Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Atul Srivastava submitted that during the investigation, DVR containing CCTV footage was seized and sent to an expert for analysis. An investigation is at the initial stage. Therefore the accused may be sent to judicial custody for four days.

Defence counsel Rajiv Mohan opposed the request for custody and argued that the custody depends on the necessity. An application was also moved on behalf of the accused, Bibhav Kumar, to protect DVR seized during the investigation and place it on record. APP Atul Srivastava opposed the application and submitted that this is not the stage for seeking a copy of CCTV footage This application may be dismissed, he added. AAP Leaders Being Forced To Run Smear Campaign Against Me, Alleges Swati Maliwal.

APP Srivastava also argued that the accused is not the occupier of CCTV. He submitted that the pen drive which was found blank, sent been to FSL. It was also submitted that the seized DVR has been sent to an expert and a report is awaited. Defence counsel Rajat Bhardwaj argued that police lied before the court to seek remand of the accused. How the Pen drive was found blank without consulting the expert.

The court has reserved the order on application for May 28. On May 19, While granting five days of police custody of Bibhav Kumar, the court had observed, "The fact not finding of the video footage in pen-drive provided by the JE to the IO during course of the investigation and getting formatting of the mobile phone by the accused speaks in volume." The court also noted the submissions of police that it is not the first criminal case against the accused. "Every investigation is a quest to find the truth and it is ultimate goal of every investigation," the court observed.

The court had noted that the case is at a nascent stage. Allegations made in the complaint/FIR is corroborated in her statement recorded by Learned. MM under section 164 Cr.P.C. on oath and further it is again corroborated in MLC of the victim/complainant.

The court also perused the case file as well as the case diaries. While seeking the accused's police custody, Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Atul Kumar Srivastava had submitted in brief that the case is a very serious case wherein a public figure and a sitting member of parliament has been brutally assaulted by the accused whose services has already been terminated in the last month itself.

He had further submitted that despite notice by the IO, the DVR containing the incident has not been provided. An officer of JE rank provided the CCTV footage in a pen drive but again when the same was checked, the video footage was blank at the relevant time. Since the accused has access to the inside also so possibility of tampering has to be ascertained for which police custody remand is necessary, APP had submitted.

He further submitted that though the accused has produced his mobile phone iPhone he has disclosed that he got it formatted in Mumbai yesterday. The accused has not disclosed the password of the mobile phone as well as the other password of the apps installed on his phone. "It is common that at the time of formatting the mobile phone, a person of ordinary prudence would also retain the clone copy or save his data in a separate hard-disk/computer," APP submitted.

So, the accused needs to be taken to Mumbai to ascertain all these facts regarding the formatting of his mobile phone and collect the deleted data.

Delhi police also submitted that the means of a weapon by which the complainant/victim was assaulted by the accused is to be recovered. On the other hand, defence counsel Rajiv Mohan had opposed the custody application and submitted that the complainant is an educated lady and has lodged the complaint after a delay of three days.

He also argued that despite an allegation of being brutally assaulted by the accused, she has not opted to lodge the FIR immediately or get herself medically examined at the earliest. It was further submitted that even if the allegation of prosecution is accepted for the sake of argument the offence of 308 IPC is not made out. He submitted that the accused has fundamental right not to disclose his mobile phone password to the investigating agency and as such he cannot be remanded to police custody for this purpose.

Defence Counsel Rajiv Mohan also submitted on behalf of the accused that the accused has got no access to the CCTV footage or the DVR as the same is under the control of the PWD Department of Government of NCT of Delhi.

Advocate Rajiv Mohan also raised the point of delay in filing of complaint. He submitted that the complainant was having opportunity all the time right from the place of Occurrence to lodge the complaint, but has refused to do so. As per his submissions, she has visited the police station of the area but did not lodge the complaint and she has now lodged the FIR belatedly after deliberation and concoctions.

On the other hand, APP argued that the investigation is at a nascent stage and FIR is not the encyclopedia of the case. He further submitted that the police custody remand of the accused is very essential just to reach a logical conclusion. He further submitted that it is a case of a grave nature, more particularly when a member of parliament who happens to be a lady has been assaulted brutally, which has been duly collaborated by contents of FIR and by her statement u/s 164 Cr.P.C.

He also said that the MLC of the victim was done in Jay Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, AIIMS Hospital. The additional public prosecutor Atul Srivastava submitted that there are high chances of tempering of evidence. He submitted that though the services of the accused have been terminated by the competent authority he has gone to the same spot again, where he has been working since 2015 and chances of him tampering with the evidence cannot be ruled out.

It was further submitted that, when questions have been put to him, he has given evasive answers and has not co-operated in the investigation. APP also submitted that this is not the first criminal case against the accused rather he was found involved in a criminal case registered by Naida Police in 2007 in PS Sector-20, Noida, U.P. u/s 353 IPC, wherein also he assaulted a public servant.
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 24 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya on Thursday said that his government will scrutinize the Other Backward Classes reservations given to Muslim communities in previous governments in the state adding that reservations should not be given on the basis of religion.

"Congress, Samajwadi Party, TMC and other parties of INDIA always talk about the rights of OBC. But they always cheat them. OBC certificates in Bengal were given to infiltrators and Muslims in Bengal from 2010-2024. It was like a knife in the chest for the OBC community. Calcutta HC order should be implemented with immediate effect. In other states, similar investigations should be done. In Uttar Pradesh, we will also do a detailed review regarding it. We won't allow anyone to snatch OBC reservations," Keshav Prasad Maurya told ANI.

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Deputy Chief Minister Maurya said that the previous government did it just to gain the vote bank of a particular community which is unconstitutional.

"All their black deeds will be revealed. Any anomalies which have been done under the previous SP, BSP, or Congress government will be investigated. The Constitution does not allow reservation based on religion. In the report of the Mandal Commission, many Muslim sects have been included. It is my personal recommendation that the report should also be scrutinized," he said.

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Earlier, the Calcutta High Court on Wednesday cancelled all OBC certificates issued in West Bengal after 2010.

The court has directed the West Bengal Backward Classes Commission to prepare a new list of OBCs in accordance with the 1993 Act. Those on the OBC list before 2010 will remain.

However, all OBC nominations after 2010 were cancelled.An estimated 5 lakh OBC certificates are set to be cancelled in light of the order.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday came out in opposition to the Calcutta High Court order scrapping OBC certificates issued after 2010, saying that OBC Reservation will continue and she will move higher courts if needed. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hamirpur (HP), May 24 (PTI) Election authorities on Friday inspected the helicopter of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, ahead of the upcoming elections in the state.

Expenditure Observer Kundan Yadav inspected the helicopter at Dhaliara, which falls under the Dehra assembly segment in Kangra district.

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The Dehra assembly seat falls under the Hamirpur parliamentary constituency.

Yadav said the chief minister's helicopter was checked as part of a routine inspection.

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The Flying Squad Team (FST) of the area inspected Sukhu's helicopter in the presence of Yadav at Dhaliara. Dehra's SDM Shilpi Bekta and DSP Anil Kumar were also present during the inspection.

Yadav had been appointed by the Election Commission of India as the expenditure observer for the 17 assembly seats falling in the Hamirpur Lok Sabha constituency.

The elections in 4 Lok Sabha constituencies and bypolls in six assembly seats are scheduled for June 1.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jaipur, May 24: Hours after his arrest in a kidnapping and gangrape case, a 30-year-old man allegedly hanged himself inside a police lockup in Rajasthan's Beawar district, officials said on Friday.

The family of the deceased, Rakesh Seervi, alleged that he was tortured by the police for five days in detention. The police, however, said Seervi was detained on Thursday and the arrest was made on the same day. Rajasthan Shocker: Woman Allegedly Feeds Poison to Sister-In-Laws Child in Barmer, Video Surfaces.

The incident took place at the Jaitaran police station Thursday late night when the man cut a blanket, made a noose out of it and hanged himself, the police said. District Superintendent of Police (DSP) Narendra Singh Chaudhary said Seervi, a resident of Chavandia Kalan village, was arrested on Thursday under sections 376 D (gangrape), 365 (kidnapping), and 342 (wrongful confinement) of the Indian Penal Code. Rajasthan Shocker: Driven by Superstitious Beliefs, Man Kills Three-Year-Old Son in Dungarpur; Detained.

The accused was also involved in other cases, including rape, registered in different police stations, Chaudhary said. Meanwhile, the brother of the deceased has accused the police of torturing him for five days. The DSP said the allegation made by Seervi's brother is being investigated and action will be taken against whoever is found guilty in the case.
Washington, May 24 (AP) President Joe Biden on Thursday expressed deep appreciation to Kenyan President William Ruto for the coming deployment of Kenyan police forces to help quell gang violence in Haiti and he defended his decision to withhold American forces from the mission in the beleaguered Caribbean nation.

The United States has agreed to contribute $300 million to a multinational force that will include 1,000 Kenyan police officers, but Biden argued that an American troop presence in Haiti would raise all kinds of questions that can easily be misrepresented."

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The Democrat came into office in 2021 pledging to end U.S. involvement in so-called endless wars in the aftermath of 20 years of conflict in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Haiti is in an area of the Caribbean that is a very volatile, Biden said at a news conference with Ruto, who was in Washington for the first state visit to the U.S. by an African leader since 2008. There's a lot going on in this hemisphere. So we're in a situation where we want to do all we can without us looking like America once again is stepping over and deciding this is what must be done.

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Ruto, who will be honored by Biden with a state dinner on the White House grounds in the evening, also gave a climate policy address and met with former President Barack Obama.

Ruto is facing legal challenges in Nairobi over the decision to commit Kenyan forces to a conflict thousands of miles from home when his own country has no shortage of economic and security challenges. He said that Kenya, as a democracy, has a duty to help.

Kenya believes that the responsibility of peace and security anywhere in the world, including in Haiti, is the collective responsibility of all nations and all people who believe in freedom, self-determination, democracy and justice," Ruto said. "And it is the reason why Kenya took up this responsibility.

Some analysts say his move could run afoul of a Kenyan High Court ruling in January that found the deployment unconstitutional because of a lack of reciprocal agreements between Kenya and Haiti. A deal was signed in March, before Ariel Henry resigned as Haiti's prime minister, to try to salvage the plan.

Kenya's moving ahead gives the impression that the country is lawless and does not believe in the rule of law," said Macharia Munene, an international relations professor at United States International University-Africa.

A difficult assignment is ahead for the Kenyan officers.

Haiti has endured poverty, political instability and natural disasters for decades. International intervention in Haiti has a complicated history. A U.N.-approved stabilization mission to Haiti that started in June 2004 was marred by a sexual abuse scandal and the introduction of cholera, which killed nearly 10,000 people. The mission ended in October 2017.

Biden and Ruto also called on economies around the globe to take action to reduce the enormous debt burden crushing Kenya and other developing nations.

The call to action, termed the Nairobi-Washington Vision, comes as Biden presses his appeal to African nations that the U.S. can be a better partner than economic rival China. Beijing has been deepening its investment on the continent  often with high-interest loans and other difficult financing terms.

Biden and Ruto want creditor nations to reduce financing barriers for developing nations that have been constrained by high debt burdens. They also called on international financial institutions to coordinate debt relief and support through multilateral banks and institutions providing better financing terms.

The White House announced $250 million in grants for the International Development Association, part of the World Bank, to assist poor countries facing crises.

Separately, a $1.2 trillion government funding bill passed by Congress in March allows the U.S. to lend up to $21 billion to an International Monetary Fund trust that provides zero-interest loans to support low-income countries.

Too many nations are forced to make a choice between development and debt, between investing in their people and paying back their creditors," Biden said.

An Associated Press analysis of a dozen countries most indebted to China  including Kenya  found the debt is consuming an ever-greater amount of tax revenue needed to keep schools open, provide electricity and pay for food and fuel.

Behind the scenes is China's reluctance to forgive debt and its extreme secrecy about how much money it has loaned and on what terms, which has kept other major lenders from stepping in to help.

Kenya's debt-to-GDP ratio tops 70%, with the bulk of it owed to China. Credit ratings agency Fitch estimates the Kenya will spend almost one-third of its government revenues just on interest payments this year.

The Biden administration has praised Kenya for stepping up in Haiti when so few other countries have agreed to do so. Biden also announced his intention to designate Kenya as a major non-NATO ally, an acknowledgment of the growing security partnership between the countries.

The designation, while largely symbolic, reflects how Kenya has grown from a regional partner that has long cooperated with U.S. counterterrorism operations on the continent to a major global influence  even extending its reach into the Western Hemisphere. Kenya will be the first sub-Saharan African country to receive the status.

Ruto arrived in Washington on Wednesday and began the visit by meeting with Biden and tech executives from Silicon Valley and Kenya's growing tech sector. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Tallinn (Estonia), May 24 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin visited his Belarusian counterpart and close ally for talks Friday in Minsk, after which he questioned whether Volodymyr Zelenskyy has the legitimacy to negotiate on Ukraine's behalf.

Russia is willing to hold talks about the war in Ukraine, Putin said, but Zelenskyy's five-year term in office was supposed to end May 20.

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However, Zelenskyy has ruled out holding new presidential elections while his country is at war  something Putin apparently ignored in remarks to reporters.

Ukrainian legislation bans elections during martial law that has been in place since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. The country would have to amend the law to elections during a state of war.

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Russian officials have repeatedly called attention to the question of Zelenskyy's term in office during the past week.

Of course, we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has ended," Putin said at a news conference in Minsk after talks with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

We must be completely sure that we are dealing with legitimate authorities," said Putin, who has repeatedly stated that Russia is ready for talks with Ukraine.

However, Zelenskyy has rejected the preconditions that Russia has put forth for talks, including allowing Russia to retain the territory Kremlin's forces have taken since the February 2022 invasion.

An international peace conference on Ukraine is to be held in Switzerland in June, but Russia has not been not invited and Putin has dismissed the conference's importance.

The two-day visit to Belarus was one of several foreign tours Putin used to kick off his fifth term in office. Since his May 7 inauguration, he also has gone to China and is expected in Uzbekistan on Sunday.

Russia and Belarus have increasingly close relations and foresee eventually forming a so-called union state.

Lukashenko has given Moscow permission to deploy Russian tactical nuclear weapons and troops to in Belarus, which shares a 1,084-kilometer (673-mile) border with Ukraine. In 2023, Russia moved some of its tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus.

Unlike nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles that can destroy entire cities, tactical nuclear weapons intended for use against troops on the battlefield are less powerful. Such weapons include aerial bombs, warheads for short-range missiles and artillery munitions.

Deploying tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus would allow Russian aircraft and missiles to reach potential targets in Ukraine more easily and quickly if Moscow decides to use them. It also extends Russia's capability to target several NATO allies in Eastern and Central Europe.

Russia has also used Belarus, which depends on Russian loans and cheap energy, as a staging ground in the war in Ukraine, deploying some of its troops there.

The two countries kicked off military drills involving tactical nuclear weapons earlier this month.

Moscow said its drills, announced publicly for the first time on May 6, were a response to statements by Western officials signaling possibly deeper involvement in the war in Ukraine. The drills began this week.

Belarus launched its maneuvers involving missiles and warplanes capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons on May 7. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Streaks of Light Seen in California. (Photo Credits: Video Grab)

Mumbai, May 24 (PTI) Detective Benoit Blanc is all set for another adventure, his most dangerous yet.

Filmmaker Rian Johnson and actor Daniel Craig are bringing back the famed detective for a third "Knives Out" movie, which will arrive on Netflix in 2025, the streamer announced on Friday.

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"Benoit Blanc returns in 2025," the streamer said in a post on social media platform X.

Titled "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery", the film promises to be another thrilling and intricate mystery to unravel, building on the success of its predecessors.

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"The next Benoit Blanc mystery, the follow-up to 'Knives Out' and 'Glass Onion', is called 'Wake Up Dead Man'," Johnson wrote on X.

"Knives Out" first released in 2019 with Johnson directing the second part in 2022.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Abu Dhabi [UAE], May 24 (ANI/WAM): Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Sigrid Kaag, United Nations Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, in Abu Dhabi.

The two sides discussed developments in the Middle East, mechanisms to enhance the response to the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and ways to provide sustainable support to civilians in the Strip.

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During the meeting, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed emphasised that the UAE is making every effort to assist the Palestinian people, offering aid by land, sea, and air.

He reiterated the UAE's support for the efforts of the United Nations and Sigrid Kaag in alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people and addressing the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

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Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed noted that the current dangerous conditions in the Middle East undermine efforts to enhance the humanitarian response, stressing the importance of the international community's combined efforts to end extremism, tension, and escalating violence.

He called for a sustainable ceasefire and the establishment of safe and sustainable channels to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip without obstacles.

The meeting was attended by Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs. (ANI/WAM)

(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, May 24: A three-and-a-half-year-old girl was abducted, raped and murdered by her neighbour in Delhi's Kapashera area and her body dumped in a drain, police said on Friday.

Police said that at 8.51 p.m. on Wednesday, a police control room (PCR) call was received about the abduction of a minor girl in street No. 9, Kapashera and a team was dispatched to the spot. The victims mother told police that around 6 p.m., her daughter was kidnapped by a neighbour named Anil. Delhi Shocker: Neighbour Abducts and Murders Girl Child in Kapashera Area, Dumps Body in Drain; Arrested.

"A massive search operation was launched to trace the girl and the accused. The team obtained CCTV footage from the cameras in the vicinity, and in one camera, at 7.05 p.m., the accused was seen with the girl going towards Ganda Nala. In the same camera, he was caught returning alone without the girl at around 7.25 p.m.," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Southwest, Rohit Meena said.

Accused Anil, 34, was traced and apprehended at about 11.55 p.m. the same day from a bus heading towards Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur. According to the official, he was interrogated and initially denied having played any role whatsoever in the kidnapping. But during sustained interrogation, he broke down and admitted to having killed and dumped the little girl in a marshy drain located at the border of Gurugram and Kapashera, he added. Delhi Shocker: Three-Year-Old Girl Raped by Tenant in Peeragarhi Area, Accused Absconding; Case Registered Under POCSO Act.

"Anil then led the police team to the said drain, where the search for the girls body was conducted in a vast expanse of marshy terrain, dense bushes, and heaps of garbage. After a long search operation lasting more than an hour in the dark, the girls body was finally found dumped in the drain," the DCP said.

At that moment, the accused sensed an opportunity to escape. "He grabbed the loaded service revolver of a police officer, as he tried to escape from custody, and fired at the police team. The police fired in self-defence, hitting the accused. He was immediately rushed to the Indira Gandhi Hospital," he said.

The crime and FSL teams were summoned to the spot. "The dead body was examined by the FSL and crime team. The accused was arrested and is now in judicial custody," the DCP said, A post-mortem examination of the victim is being conducted by a medical board, the DCP said, adding that police have added Section 376 (Rape) of the Indian Penal Code in the FIR.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 24, 2024 11:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Multiple tornadoes have been recorded across the Midwest, with the deadliest ones touching down in Iowa, killing multiple people. Meanwhile, residents in both the Midwest and the Great Plains are already bracing for even more dangerous weather coming up.

At least 26 tornadoes tore through three states across the Midwest as severe weather has been recorded from New York to Texas. The most devastated state, Iowa, saw half of the town of Greenfield be completely devastated by tornadoes.

The National Weather Service reported that Iowa was the hardest hit because out of the 26 recorded tornadoes that hit the Midwest, 21 were in the state. These tornadoes were spawned by severe weather and they struck between 5:44 PM and 11:00 PM CT.

"It's just gut-wrenching. It's horrific. It's hard to describe until you can actually see it, the devastation," said Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds in a news conference on Wednesday morning. She was in Greenfield, located southwest of Des Moines, to assess the damage.

She added that search and rescue operations are still ongoing and the number of deaths and injuries are still being tallied, adding, "This is a search-and-rescue mission and it will continue to be throughout the day."

For now, as these search and rescue operations continued, a majority of the town of Greenfield has already been flattened, with several other parts of Iowa being devastated by the tornadoes. Even the Adair County Memorial Hospital, which serves Greenfield, was damaged and it was enough for State Rep. Ray Sorensen to admit, "It's a completely different town now."

Communities Devastated by Midwest Tornadoes Struggle as More Tornadoes Already Recorded This Year

On Wednesday, residents joined authorities in sifting through debris and finding missing people or salvaging what they could use as many have been left homeless, with local Greenfield resident Kimberly Ergish telling the Associated Press, "Most of it we can't save, but we're going to get what we can."

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She admitted that her house was completely destroyed in mere seconds, telling the AP, "If it weren't for all the bumps and bruises and the achy bones, I would think that it didn't happen."

Surveys from the National Weather Service have indicated that the tornado that hit Greenfield was at least an EF-3. However, an additional damage assessment could land it an even more powerful ranking. This comes as the US has been hit by even more tornadoes this year, 27% more than average with 859 confirmed tornadoes this year alone, and more are expected to come.

Storm Chaser Dead, Wind Turbines Damaged Amid Midwest Tornadoes

Storm chasers often risk their lives to record severe weather, and one of them has just been killed by the severe Iowa tornadoes that lifted her car and threw it off the road, killing her.

Adams County emergency responders soon arrived at the wreck and found the woman, whose name was not released. However, neighbors told the Des Moines Register that she was in fact, a storm chaser and that first responders found her body in a field.

Meanwhile, over in Adair County, several wind turbines belonging to MidAmerican Energy "took a direct hit by a large tornado" and were damaged or destroyed, according to a company spokesperson.

READ NEXT: Chicago Tornado Disrupts Hundreds of O'Hare International Airport Flights

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Drone video shows destruction, path of Greenfield, Iowa tornado - KCCI
Mexico has been suffering from a massive heatwave as of late, and it has brought about drought in parts of the country. Howler monkeys are reported to be just dropping from trees, and dying from the heat. The drought has led to water shortages across Mexico and people are already protesting. However, the heatwave has been so bad that even the police have been seen joining these protests.

In the capital, Mexico City, local neighborhoods had to form human chains to block boulevards to demand water. Police would usually redirect traffic whenever these protests happened, but instead, some of those who were manning a protest blockade near the Independence Monument actually joined in.

These officers stood blocking six lanes of traffic and protested along with the ordinary citizens, complaining that they had not had any water in their barracks for a week and that their bathrooms were unusable.

"We don't have water in the bathrooms," one female officer who spoke with the Associated Press on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal stated. She added that the conditions in the barracks were intolerable and claimed that "They make us sleep on the floor."

"The bosses have water in their offices, but we're not allowed to go in there," the female police officer continued. "They don't give us solutions. Today they brought in a water truck after they saw the news media show up."

This is just one instance of the longstanding tensions between police officers and their supervisors over several issues, which include sexual harassment and unfair working conditions. The distribution of water during times of drought has also been an issue.

Howler Monkeys Falling Dead From Trees As a Result of Mexico's Severe Heatwave

Mexico's brutal heatwave has not just affected humans but wildlife as well. This is evident in the town of Tecolutilla, Tabasco where dead monkeys started appearing and falling from trees. The main reason for this is the heatwave.

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The local volunteer fire-and-rescue squad in the area recently arrived in the town with five howler monkeys in its truck bed and they were all rescued from their heat-related predicament. The volunteer firefighters claimed that this group of monkeys was asking them for help.

"They arrived in critical condition, with dehydration and fever," veterinarian Dr. Sergio Valenzuela told the Associated Press. "They were as limp as rags. It was heatstroke."

"They (the volunteers) asked for help, they asked if I could examine some of the animals they had in their truck," added the vet. "They said they didn't have any money, and asked if I could do it for free."

The monkeys seem to be recovering already after the doctor placed ice on their hands and feet and hooked them up to IV drips with electrolytes.

Mexico Heatwave Bringing in Melting Temperatures Across Mexico

In Mexico City, the temperature is usually temperate. However, on Thursday, the temperature peaked at 34.3 degrees Celsius (93.7 degrees Fahrenheit). Over in Puebla, it broke its previous record of 34.3 C on Thursday, with temperatures going up to 35.2 C.

Right across from Texas is the state of Tamaulipas and it was just sweltering there, especially in the city of Ciudad Victoria. According to Reuters, temperatures reached 47.4 C on Thursday in that city.

READ MORE: Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Guatemala President Bernardo Arevalo, Meet Regarding Migration

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WATCH: Howler monkeys are dropping dead from trees in Mexico's intense heat - Associated Press
A delegation of Kenya officials has arrived in Haiti, signaling a critical juncture before the anticipated deployment of a multinational security force led by Kenya.

This multinational mission aims to bolster Haiti's National Police in them battle against entrenched gang control in Port-au-Prince, CNN reports.

According to sources familiar with the preparations, the delegation's primary objective this week is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the country's readiness to host foreign police forces.

This assessment will play a decisive role in setting a definitive timeline for deployment.

READ NEXT: Rights Groups Urge Dominican Republic to Halt Haiti Refugee Deportations Amid Violence Surge

Deployment Challenges and Delayed Timeline

The initial hopes for launching the Multinational Security Support Mission during Kenyan President William Ruto's state visit to the White House faced significant hurdles.

Key among these are delays in acquiring essential equipment, such as armored vehicles and helicopters equipped for medical evacuations.

An anonymous US official disclosed that while there is optimism about meeting an unofficial May 23 deadline, actual deployment might extend into early June due to logistical procurement challenges.

The mission's success hinges on securing these critical resources to ensure the safety and operational efficiency of deployed personnel, according to the Miami Herald.

Kenya, spearheading the 2,500-member security force, has reportedly reached agreements with the Haitian government on operational rules.

However, formal documentation required by the UN Security Council to commence the mission has yet to be finalized and submitted.

Concerns have also surfaced over the availability of radios and communication equipment necessary for coordinating operations.

The absence of adequate medical evacuation capabilities, including helicopters, poses further complications.

US congressional aides briefed on the matter have expressed skepticism regarding the mission's timely launch.

They cite ongoing challenges in equipment logistics and the need for clear rules of engagement before proceeding.

Meanwhile, diplomatic maneuvers continue as Kenya works to secure international support and funding for the mission.

The Biden administration has allocated substantial financial backing, reflecting broader US interests in stabilizing amid escalating Haiti gang violence and political instability.

Kenya's Strategic Role and International Support

Kenya's leadership in this unprecedented security deployment outside Africa underscores its growing diplomatic stature.

The Multinational Security Support Mission not only highlights Kenya's commitment to regional stability but also reflects broader shifts in US-Africa relations amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Despite these strategic alignments, the deployment carries inherent risks, GZERO noted.

It marks the first time an African nation has led such a mission outside its continent, under intense scrutiny due to past controversies involving foreign peacekeepers in Haiti.

The deployment's success will depend significantly on navigating logistical hurdles, securing operational approvals, and garnering sustained international support.

It also underscores the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and operational realities on the ground in Haiti.

As Kenya officials and international stakeholders navigate these complexities, the fate of Haiti's security landscape hangs in the balance.

The mission's outcome could have far-reaching implications for regional stability and international peacekeeping efforts.

While preparations intensify and diplomatic engagements unfold, the path to deploying Kenya police in Haiti remains fraught with challenges.

As stakeholders work towards overcoming logistical obstacles and securing necessary approvals, the multinational mission's timeline and operational readiness will continue to evolve.

READ MORE: Argentina's Milei Slams Spain's Ambassador Recall as 'Socialist Arrogance'

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Haitian police push back gangs ahead of Kenyan forces arrival - From CBC News: The National
Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has recently announced her intention to support Donald Trump in the upcoming 2024 US presidential election.

This declaration marks a significant shift in her stance towards her former opponent and boss.

Haley, who previously served as Trump's United Nations ambassador, was one of his major rivals in the party primary contest earlier this year, suspending her campaign in early March.

Despite this, she refrained from endorsing him at the time, urging him instead to earn the support of the millions who had backed her candidacy, BBC reports.

Haley's journey from primary challenger to potential Trump supporter has been closely watched.

Despite dropping out of the race, she has continued to garner support, winning over 20% of the vote in multiple state primary elections in recent weeks.

This lingering support has drawn attention from both the Donald Trump and Joe Biden camps, as they seek to court her supporters.

READ NEXT: Nikki Haley Wins Primary, Defeats Donald Trump in Washington DC for First Time

Haley's Critique of the Biden Administration

In her first public remarks since leaving the presidential race, Nikki Haley did not hold back in her criticism of President Joe Biden.

Speaking at the conservative Hudson Institute think-tank in Washington DC, she labeled the Biden administration's handling of various international crises as disastrous.

From the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan to the perceived abandonment of Israel, Haley painted a grim picture of Biden's foreign policy record.

She argued that while Donald Trump may not have been perfect, Biden's tenure has been marked by catastrophe, according to Fox News.

Despite her endorsement of Trump, Haley stopped short of urging her supporters to follow suit. Instead, she emphasized the need for Trump to reach out to her base directly, recognizing the diversity of opinions within the Republican Party.

This move highlights Haley's desire to maintain her independence and influence within the party.

Speculation Surrounding Haley's Future

Haley's announcement has sparked speculation about her future role in the Republican Party.

Some observers have suggested the possibility of a Trump-Haley ticket in November, while others believe she may be positioning herself for a potential presidential run in 2028.

Regardless of her next steps, Haley's endorsement of Trump has reshaped the political landscape and brought renewed attention to her role within the party.

The Joe Biden campaign has sought to capitalize on Haley's endorsement of Trump by continuing to court her supporters, CNN noted.

They argue that Haley's backing of Trump does not change the fundamental choice before voters, emphasizing Biden's commitment to democracy, diplomacy, and bipartisanship.

Nikki Haley's decision to support Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election represents a significant moment in her political career.

As a former rival turned ally, her endorsement carries weight within the Republican Party and could potentially shape the outcome of the election.

However, Haley's continued independence and willingness to speak out against both parties signal that she remains a force to be reckoned with in American politics.

READ MORE: Biden Administration Permitted 'Deadly Force' in Mar-a-Lago Raid

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WATCH: Nikki Haley says she will vote for Trump - From CBS Evening News
In a disturbing turn of events, Terry Williams, a well-known California Black dog walker in San Francisco, saw his home engulfed in flames on Tuesday, marking a distressing escalation after he reported receiving racially charged threatening packages.

Williams, who was away at a meeting with city officials when the house fire broke out, faced the ordeal of his elderly parents trapped inside the burning building.

The troubling series of events began with Williams discovering hateful packages outside their family home in late April and early May, Yahoo! News reports.

These packages contained deeply offensive messages and symbols, including racist attacks and a doll bearing a noose.

The discovery shook the Alamo Square neighborhood, prompting widespread condemnation and expressions of solidarity from the community, which rallied behind Williams in support.

READ NEXT: UPS Driver in California Fatally Shot; Suspected Gunman Arrested

The House Fire Incident

On Tuesday morning, a devastating fire consumed the Williams' residence, causing significant damage and posing grave risks to the lives of those inside.

California Black dog walker's father, Luddie Williams, 81, and mother, Carolyn, 79, narrowly escaped with injuries, requiring hospitalization.

Firefighters undertook daring rescues amid intense flames and smoke, highlighting the urgency and danger of the situation.

San Francisco Fire Department spokesperson Lt. Mariano Elias indicated that investigations into the fire's cause were ongoing, with early reports suggesting no definitive conclusions.

The incident has intensified concerns over safety and racial tensions in the neighborhood, prompting heightened vigilance and community solidarity, according to ABC 7.

Authorities, including San Francisco Police and fire officials, are treating the arson as a hate crime, reflecting the gravity of the situation.

While the involvement of federal agencies such as the FBI has not been confirmed, local leaders stress the need for a thorough and swift investigation to apprehend those responsible and prevent future incidents.

The Alamo Square community has rallied strongly in response to the tragedy, organizing fundraisers and supporting initiatives to aid the Williams family in their recovery.

A recent GoFundMe campaign has garnered substantial contributions, underscoring the community's commitment to standing against racism and supporting victims of hate crimes.

Gentrification and Community Erosion

The arson and racist threats against the Williams family underscore broader challenges facing San Francisco's Black residents.

Decades of gentrification, soaring housing costs, and demographic shifts have marginalized Black communities, leading to significant declines in population percentages.

Recent census data highlights stark disparities in health outcomes and economic opportunities, exacerbating the vulnerability of minority groups.

In the wake of this tragic incident, local leaders and civil rights advocates have called for justice, urging a united front against hate and discrimination, San Francisco Chronicles noted.

Supervisor Dean Preston and community leaders emphasize the importance of systemic change and robust support for marginalized communities.

They highlight the need for enhanced security measures and community outreach to protect vulnerable residents and promote inclusivity.

Despite the trauma and challenges faced by the California Black dog walker and his family, their resilience and determination remain unwavering.

Williams, known for his dedication to his community and his beloved dogs, has vowed to continue advocating against racial injustice and standing firm in his neighborhood.

The solidarity displayed by neighbors and supporters reflects a collective commitment to overcoming adversity and fostering a safer, more inclusive community for all.

READ MORE: Rylo Huncho Dies in Accident While Filming Social Media Video

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WATCH: SF dog walker's house destroyed in fire weeks after racist messages; elderly parents trapped inside - From ABC7 News Bay Area
The Mexico Vs. Ecuador feud over the raid by Ecuadorian authorities at the Mexican Embassy has already escalated to the international stage as the ICJ rejected Mexico's emergency measures against Ecuador over the raid. This came as the North American country sought to have the South American country suspended from the UN over its actions last month.

In its ruling, the ICJ panel declined to order Ecuador to protect Mexico's embassy after that controversial raid. The emergency measure was requested by Mexico as part of its complaint vs. Ecuador at the United Nations' top court.

The Mexican government complained that Ecuador's actions had violated its sovereignty as the raid to arrest former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas took place inside the Mexican Embassy, which is considered Mexican Soil. In addition, Mexico has already granted asylum to Glas, which makes the case even more complicated.

As for the emergency measure Mexico requested, the Latin American country asked the UN high court to take "appropriate and immediate steps to provide full protection and security of diplomatic premises" and prevent any further intrusions, according to Al Jazeera News.

However, International Court of Justice President Nawaf Salam ruled that the Ecuadorian government had already made pledges that "encompass the concerns expressed by Mexico," noting that "the court considers that there is at present no urgency."

"The court highlighted, among other things, that Ecuador has given repeatedassurances that it would provide full protection and security to the premises, property and archives of the Mexican embassy in Quito," The ICJ official added.

READ MORE: Ecuador Files Lawsuit Vs. Mexico in ICJ Over Granting Asylum to Former VP Jorge Glas

Mexico Reacts to ICJ Rejection of Its Emergency Measures Request Vs. Ecuador

Alejandro Celorio Alcantara, the legal adviser for Mexico's Foreign Affairs Ministry, sounded off on the International Court of Justice ruling and stated that while Ecuador's pledges were a good sign, he added that "we would want to see all of the political actors in Ecuador reassuring that an embassy cannot be violated."

Alcantara is the lawyer arguing on Mexico's behalf on the case, and the Associated Press noted that he told the ICJ judges that Ecuador overstepped "lines in international law which should not be crossed" when it raided the Mexican Embassy to arrest Glas.

While Ecuador won this round, the final decision over the case might take years to resolve. For now, Mexico still wants Ecuador suspended from the UN. It issued "a public apology recognizing its violations to the fundamental principles and norms of international law" and agreed to reparations.

Mexico Afraid That Ecuador Would Kill Jorge Glas

The Mexico Vs. Ecuador row has been brewing since April of this year, with Ecuador doubling down on its actions and claiming that Mexico was illegally granting asylum to Glas while Mexico alleges that Ecuador was truly trying to kill the embattled former vice president of Ecuador.

"I am very worried because they could kill him. There is no basis to do this, this is totally outside the norm," said Mexican diplomatic corps official Roberto Canseco shortly after the raid.

READ MORE: Mexico Vs. Ecuador Feud: White House Slams Ecuadorian Government Over Raid Vs. Mexico Embassy

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: LIVE: ICJ gives preliminary ruling in Mexico-Ecuador dispute over embassy raid - Associated Press
The Atlantic Hurricane Season is almost upon us, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is warning that more hurricanes might be expected to arrive this year as "warm Atlantic ocean temperatures and conditions related to the La Nina weather phenomenon in the Pacific" are expected to increase the number of storms coming from the Atlantic Ocean.

Last year, powerful hurricanes like Idalia punished Florida and parts of the Caribbean. More of these strong storms could be expected, with NOAA's Rick Spinrad telling France 24, "This season is looking to be an extraordinary one in a number of ways."

"The forecast for named storms -- hurricanes and major hurricanes -- is the highest NOAA has ever issued for the May outlook," the NOAA expert added. "It only takes one storm to devastate a community."

The US weather agency predicted that with these current conditions, between 17 and 25 named storms in total could develop with winds over 39 miles per hour. Around 8 to 13 of these named storms could reach hurricane strength. This is a result of human-caused climate change, which has been warming oceans and melting ice on land. The melting ice also caused sea levels to rise, and this could worsen storm surges.

"It's reason to be concerned, of course, but not alarmed," added National Weather Service director Ken Graham, urging Americans to prepare for more potential hurricanes.

La Nina Helping Atlantic Churn Out More Hurricanes This Year

As for what is making the Atlantic Hurricane Season possibly worse this year, scientists from various agencies have pointed to the weather phenomenon known as La Nina.

READ NEXT: Texas Floods: Young Boy Dead as Search and Rescue Operations Continue

According to the Associated Press, meteorologists often look at ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and La Nina or El Nino is happening. Once the Atlantic Storm Season begins, there will be La Nina, which "tends to turbocharge Atlantic storm activity while depressing storminess in the Pacific."

The weather phenomenon usually adds more instability to the atmosphere, reducing high-altitude winds. However, this could seed hurricane development. Climate change is making this even more complicated as storms get their energy from hot water, and climate change is warming up the seas.

"We've never had a La Nina combined with ocean temperatures this warm in recorded history, so that's a little ominous," University of Miami tropical meteorology researcher Brian McNoldy told the AP.

Disturbance Found in the Caribbean Could Become Atlantic Hurricane Season's First Storm

Speaking of Atlantic storms, we might be getting our first one this year as the National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring a disturbance over the Northern Caribbean Islands. This was found just days before the Atlantic Hurricane Season is about to begin, per Fox Weather.

There is currently a 10% chance of development within the next two days as a more organized low-pressure system could form from it once it reaches Hispaniola, which is where Haiti and the Dominican Republic are.

READ MORE: Puerto Rico Still Needs 'A Lot of Work' Over Its Hurricane and Earthquake Recovery, Says Federal Audit

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WATCH: Extremely busy Atlantic Hurricane season predicted - WWLTV
It was supposed to be a routine campaign rally in Nuevo Leon state for presidential candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez, but things soon turned deadly after the stage collapsed. While the current third-ranked favorite was ok, the incident resulted in nine people dead and dozens of others injured in yet another deadly incident during the already-deadly Mexico election season.

It happened while Alvarez was delivering a speech in the city of San Pedro Garza Garcia, which is found near the city of Monterrey. He soon addressed his supporters to try and calm things down as people were screaming and running away from the collapsed stage.

Several members of the candidate's team were injured, his campaign confirmed. However, unlike the many deadly incidences that have happened so far this Mexican election cycle, no foul play was suspected. Alvarez noted that the collapse was caused by a powerful gust of wind, according to the BBC.

''First, I saw the musicians' drums from the group that was going to play were going to get blown away," the candidate running to be Mexico's next president said. "When the others noticed, they ran in different directions; some jumped to the sides, and I jumped back."

"What we experienced happened in just a few seconds: A gale came, a sudden wind, and unfortunately, it collapsed the stage, resulting in a fatal accident," he added, describing the incident as an "atypical [weather] event."

Soldiers and police soon responded to the accident and helped out in the search and rescue operations, pulling survivors out of the rubble that was once the stage where candidates were delivering speeches.

Nuevo Leon Governor Confirms 9 Dead in Mexico Election Campaign Stage Collapse

Meanwhile, Nuevo Leon Gov. Samuel Garcia, a top ally of Alvarez and a member of his Citizens Movement party, confirmed the casualties of the incident in a video message. He stated that nine people were killed: eight adults and one child.

READ MORE: Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Faces Massive Protest as Tens of Thousands Marched Against Him

The Nuevo Leon governor also confirmed the dozens of people injured, with 94 already being treated and released while 27 remained hospitalized. He also confirmed that a lot of the injuries involved skull fractures, per the Associated Press, adding that some of the victims were still undergoing surgery at that time. Others also appeared to be in critical condition.

The governor added that the incident happened in a "matter of seconds" as the stage collapsed quickly after a powerful gust of wind blew by.

Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Reacts to Deadly Stage Collapse

The incident happened to the Citizen's Movement Party, and even though his party is going against them in the Mexico election, set to take place next month, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador sent his condolences to the victims and expressed his support for his Morena Party's rival.

"We know that they are not to blame," AMLO said before calling for investigations into the deadly collapse. "The only important thing at this point is to care for the victims of the accident," he added.

Candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez is currently in third place behind AMLO ally Claudia Sheinbaum, who is in 1st place in the polls, and opposition candidate Xochitl Galvez, who is in second place. The race has been called a three-horse race between the three candidates despite the massive lead being held by Sheinbaum.

READ MORE: Mexico Elections Primer: Who Are the Top 3 Candidates Vying to Replace AMLO?

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: At least nine dead as stage collapses in Mexico at Jorge Alvarez Maynez rally | BBC News
Donald Trump and his allies, as well as right-wing media like Fox News, overexaggerated an FBI standard protocol, and they have been mocked over it recently, especially as these Trump allies and right-wing media pundits are trying to rally their supporters on the lie that Biden was trying to assassinate his main political rival.

As it became evident that Donald Trump's claims that Joe Biden wanted him assassinated over the Mar-a-Lago classified documents raid was just usual FBI standard protocol during raids, late-night talk shows pounced to poke fun at the former president and the overreaction at right-wing media outlets like Fox News and Newsmax.

"The Daily Show's" guest host Michael Kosta was one of those who mocked the ex-POTUS as he recited Donald Trump's remarks and attempts to campaign off what should be typical wording for an FBI order.

"Holy sh-t! 'Locked and loaded?' 'Ready to take me out?'" Kosta stated, reciting Trump's own words, "I've never heard Joe Biden sound so f-king cool in my life."

"I always thought of him as a doddering old man, but Donald Trump makes him look like one of the 'Expendables," he joked. "The rest of you take what you want, but leave the orange man to me. Can you tape "Wheel of Fortune?" This might take a little while.'"

The false remarks about Biden trying to have him assassinated first came from a fundraising email Trump had sent to his supporters. It claimed that Biden's "DOJ authorized the FBI to use deadly (lethal) force," though as it turned out, it was standard operating procedure that the FBI puts in all search warrants as it is a routine disclosure of its use-of-force policy, according to The Wrap.

"Now, personally, think it'd be very difficult to assassinate Donald Trump, mostly because he would never get that close to a book depository," added the comedian. But regardless, I don't think Trump actually fears getting assassinated by Joe Biden, and the reason is because he announced it in a fundraising email. If you're dodging bullets, you don't stop to wave your Venmo QR code. 'Please, somebody send me money.'"

READ MORE: Donald Trump Falsely Claims Judge Did Not Allow His Witness to Testify in Hush Money Trial

FBI Responds to Donald Trump's Claim That Joe Biden Wanted Him Assassinated

According to Axios, the overreaction and lack of understanding of how the FBI operated was seized upon by Georgia Republican Rep. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who falsely claimed that the DOJ and FBI were "planning to assassinate Pres. Trump and gave the green light." This was then spread by Fox News, Newsmax, and other right-wing blogs and media outlets.

In response, the FBI clarified that such wordings in their orders are normal, releasing a statement that read, "The FBI followed standard protocol in this search as we do for all search warrants, which includes a standard policy statement limiting the use of deadly force."

Despite this, right-wing news organizations did not retract their reports as they continued to be shared among their followers.

AG Merrick Garland Blasts Donald Trump's False Assassination Attempt Claims

Attorney General Merrick Garland also chimed in, slamming the former president for spreading lies that Biden authorized his potential assassination during the FBI raid at Mar--Lago in 2022.

"The document that has been referred to in the allegation is the Justice Department's standard policy, limiting the use of force as the FBI advises it as part of the standard operations plan for searches," the AG told reporters. "And in fact, it was even used in the consensual search of President Biden's home." adding that Trump's claims are "false and extremely dangerous."

READ MORE: Fox News Sued for False Election Coverage Again

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Trump's Assassination Paranoia & Disagreement Over Economic Reality | The Daily Show
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced a special session of the General Assembly next Tuesday to ensure President Joe Biden appears on the state's 2024 ballot.

DeWine emphasized the urgency, citing a looming deadline and calling the situation absurd.

The issue stems from a partisan legislative conflict over foreign money in state ballot campaigns, AP News reports.

This debate gained traction after a Swiss billionaire's funds supported an effort to enshrine abortion rights in Ohio's constitution.

The Democratic National Convention, set for August 19-22, falls after Ohio's August 7 ballot deadline.

Ohio had previously adjusted its certification deadlines temporarily in 2012 and 2020.

Ohio governor, after discussions with Secretary of State Frank LaRose, insisted on immediate action.

He aims to pass a Senate bill banning foreign contributions to Ohio ballot measures, described as a "poison pill" in the divided Ohio House.

Senate President Matt Huffman supports a vote on House Bill 114, aligning with DeWine.

House Democratic leader Allison Russo countered, arguing that foreign donations are already illegal and that the real issue is dark money, accusing Republicans of manipulating rules to curb direct democracy.

READ NEXT: Biden's Ohio Ballot Access Hindered by Schedule Conflict

Partisan Reactions and Legislative Proposals

State Democratic Party Chair Elizabeth Walters criticized GOP lawmakers for politicizing the Joe Biden ballot issue and disenfranchising voters.

She urged for the Ohio Anti-Corruption Act to require dark money groups to disclose their funders and spending and strengthen bans on foreign money.

Walters called for a clean bill to ensure Biden's place on the ballot, expressing confidence in his eventual inclusion despite Republican tactics, according to BBC.

Republican House Speaker Jason Stephens emphasized that lawmakers have proposals to ban foreign influence without infringing on citizens' rights, aiming for solutions that will pass both chambers.

US Senator JD Vance of Ohio saw the special session as a reasonable compromise, stressing that a competitive presidential race is crucial for down-ballot races.

The Ohio Republican Party backed DeWine's decision. Alabama recently changed its law to ensure Biden's ballot appearance, like past accommodations for Trump.

The last special session in Ohio was in 2004 for campaign finance reform under Gov. Bob Taft.

Historical Precedents and Legislative Challenges

While Ohio has previously adjusted deadlines, House Speaker Jason Stephens opposes a legislative fix this time.

The Ohio governor criticized the situation as absurd and urged immediate action, the New York Times noted.

Similar deadline issues were resolved in other states earlier this year.

Biden's campaign remains confident of a resolution but may need legal action.

Ohio, now a more conservative state, saw Trump win in 2016 and 2020. DeWine's special session call underscores the national implications of this issue.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is urging state lawmakers to avoid a partisan clash that could bar President Biden from the state's 2024 presidential ballot.

Ohio's top election official warned that Democrats are nominating their candidate too late to meet ballot access laws, potentially forcing the Biden campaign to sue.

DeWine called a special legislative session to pass a law allowing Biden on the ballot.

Ohio requires nominees to be certified by August 7, but Biden won't be officially named until the Democratic National Convention from August 19-22.

Secretary of State Frank LaRose emphasized the deadline conflict, threatening to exclude Joe Biden without compliance.

READ MORE: Nikki Haley Prefers Donald Trump Over Joe Biden

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: DeWine calls for special session to fix issue of getting Biden on Ohio ballot - From WBNS 10TV
Monday morning, tragedy struck in northwest Austin, Texas, when a man walking his dog was fatally shot.

Responding to a welfare check just before 4 AM on Amarillo Avenue, deputies discovered a Texas man in his 40s with gunshot wounds lying unresponsive in the street.

Despite immediate CPR efforts and the arrival of Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services, the man, identified as 49-year-old Stephen Peterman, succumbed to his injuries at the scene, USA Today reports.

The incident has left the neighborhood shaken and mourning the loss of a beloved community member.

READ NEXT: Texas Man Crashes Stolen Semi into DPS Building, Killing 1, Injuring 13

Identification and Arrest

Within hours of the Texas shooting, detectives made a breakthrough in the case.

Analyzing security footage and forensic evidence collected at the scene, investigators identified 36-year-old William Jewel Daniels as a Texas gunman.

Texas gunman, a resident of San Antonio, was arrested Monday afternoon on a murder charge.

The arrest came after authorities discovered a palm print on Peterman's work truck and linked Daniels to a red hatchback seen fleeing the scene on surveillance video.

The swift apprehension of Daniels has brought a sense of relief to the community, though the tragic circumstances surrounding Peterman's death continue to resonate deeply.

Residents of the quiet neighborhood expressed shock and disbelief following the Texas shooting, according to Fox7 Austin.

Jim Wolfe, who lives nearby, described the surreal moment when deputies knocked on doors seeking security footage.

Wolfe emphasized the rarity of such violence in their typically peaceful area, reflecting on the impact of the incident on the community's sense of safety.

Despite the tragedy, neighbors rallied together, offering support to Peterman's family and cooperating with law enforcement to aid in the investigation.

The solidarity shown by residents underscores the strength of community bonds during times of adversity.

Insights from Affidavit

Recent court documents have provided additional insight into the events leading up to the Texas man's death.

According to the affidavit, Peterman was known to take his dog for a walk around 3:50 AM on weekdays.

On the fateful Monday morning, his routine was tragically interrupted by the sound of gunshots.

Peterman's wife, awakened by the gunfire, discovered her husband's absence and found their dog waiting by the front door.

Law enforcement believes Peterman encountered Daniels while interrupting an alleged burglary of his work truck, leading to a fatal confrontation, KVUE ABC noted.

The details outlined in the affidavit highlight the suddenness and senselessness of the violence that claimed Peterman's life.

The loss of a Texas man has cast a shadow over the community of northwest Austin, prompting reflection on the preciousness of life and the impact of violence on peaceful neighborhoods.

As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, Peterman's memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.

The swift action by law enforcement in apprehending the Texas gunman offers hope for justice yet cannot erase the profound grief felt by Peterman's family and friends.

READ MORE: California Dog Walker's Home Set on Fire Weeks After Racist Threats

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Man shot to death while walking dog in Austin; suspect arrested: TCSO - From FOX 7 Austin
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My husband was at the grocery store yesterday and a woman was blocking the aisle, bending over to look at an item on the shelf. A male shopper in front of my husband asked her to please move so he could pass by, which the woman did.

My husband, a man with a noticeable paunch, approached her next, asking her to let him by. She responded, If you didnt have such a big belly, I wouldnt have to get out of your way. My husband, a kind and friendly man, walked by -- shocked, rightfully insulted, and at a loss for words.

What would have been a good response from him to let the woman know how cruel and insensitive she was? Her remark hurt.

GENTLE READER: Do we think she was unaware of this? Or that any response would have been more effective than the hurt look on your husbands face?

***

(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
A free shuttle service resumes Saturday connecting bicyclists, paddlers and other outdoor enthusiasts to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Monroe County Transportation Authority  the Pocono Pony  provides the River Runner shuttle on Saturdays from May 25 through Aug. 31 for the 2024 season, on the Pennsylvania side of the federal parkland.

The shuttle provides access to the parks four Pennsylvania river access points  Smithfield Beach, Bushkill Access, Dingmans Access, and Milford Beach  and can carry up to 10 kayaks or canoes, and four bicycles.

The River Runner route begins at the Park-and-Ride lot in the borough of Delaware Water Gap at 8:10 a.m., with northbound shuttles running every contiguous hour until 1:15 p.m. The southbound route begins at Milford Beach at 10 a.m., with shuttles running every contiguous hour until 3:05 p.m. Visitors can hail the River Runner at several additional flag stop locations along the way, including some parking areas for the McDade Recreational Trail that extends most of the length of the park from Hialeah Recreation Area to Milford Beach.

This service is popular with solo paddlers or groups looking to take a trip using personally owned canoes and kayaks, Zach Piotrowski, the parks outdoor recreation planner, said in a news release. By using the shuttle, visitors dont need to worry about leaving a vehicle at both start and end accesses.

Visitors load their vessel on the trailer, hop on the northbound shuttle, and then paddle back to their car, enjoying more time on the water.

Gather your gear and head out to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area via the Monroe County Transportation Authority, AKA Pocono Pony, on Saturdays from May 25 through Aug. 31, 2024. The free service, known as the River Runner, provides portage for up to 10 kayaks or canoes and four bicycles. For a complete schedule, visit gomcta.com/trip.MCTA photo

Parking areas within the park can fill up fast on weekends, making the River Runner the potential key to enjoying a day along the Delaware.

Late spring and summer are the perfect time to explore the hiking and biking trails as well as water activities of the National Park, stated Rich Schlameuss, CEO of the Monroe County Transportation Authority. With public transit, you dont need to worry about limited parking or dealing with traffic. Leave the driving to us.

The River Runner is funded in part by the National Park Service, the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau and the Monroe County Commissioners.

We are especially grateful for the generous local support for this valuable service to area residents and visitors, Schlameuss stated. This is the 13th year MCTA will be providing free public transit that affords access to a park with a rich history, picture-worthy scenery, and family friendly outdoor fun.

The Monroe County Transportation Authority, AKA Pocono Pony, will begin offering free Saturday rides into the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on May 25, 2024. For a complete schedule, visit gomcta.com/trip. MCTA photo

Riders are advised to be at the stop about five to 10 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time of the bus.

Passengers are required to load and secure their gear, and MCTA operators will check to make sure everything is properly stowed.

MCTA also provides a connector bus that stops in Swiftwater, Stroudsburg and the Martz Bus Station in Delaware Water Gap before stopping at the Park-and-Ride where visitors can take the park shuttle.

In addition, the Delaware Water Gap Connector provides service between the MCTA bus stop in Swiftwater and the Delaware Water Gap Park-and-Ride in DWG.

For information, call MCTA at 570-839-6282 or visit gomcta.com. For more information on Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area call the information desk at 570-426-2452, visit its website at nps.gov/dewa or follow park staff on Facebook.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
UPDATE: More than 3,000 homes remain without power a full day after storms

As Lehigh Valley residents picked up fallen tree branches and limbs and assessed damage to vehicles and other property, electric line crews were continuing to restore service to thousands of properties across the region following a powerful storm Thursday morning.

The thunderstorm moved through shortly before 9 a.m., with official impacts of about two-thirds of an inch of rain and 15 mph winds gusting to 28 mph, the National Weather Service said for its climate station at Lehigh Valley International Airport outside Allentown.

As of 6 p.m.: PPL Electric Utilities on its outage map reported 4,363 outages in Lehigh County and another 2,862 in Northampton County; FirstEnergy Corp.s Met-Ed reported 112 Lehigh County outages and 2,472 customers without power in Northampton County; and FirstEnergys JCP&L reported 3,248 outages in Warren County, for a regional total of 13,057. (Another 4,139 outages lingered in Hunterdon County, JCP&L said.)

Here are the updates from the late afternoon into Thursday evening from representatives of each of the utility companies:

PPL Electric Utilities spokeswoman Jane George:

Due to severe weather on Thursday morning, some of our customers lost power. As of 5:55 p.m., about 7,900 customers of our 1.5 million customers are without power. Since the storm began, we have restored power to more than 16,500 customers.

Pop-up storms predicted may result in additional outages throughout today. Remember, if you encounter a downed wire at any time, assume its energized, stay away and report it immediately.

We are working to restore power to those customers without power and we remain ready to respond as safely and efficiently as possible to any outages that may occur. Our storm response plan, includes:

Storm teams are activated with additional personnel in the field, control centers and customer service across our 29-county service territory.

Implementing 16-hours shifts for around-the-clock coverage.

Bringing in additional line workers from outside our company to assist in restoration efforts.

We encourage customers to stay up to date on their outage through PPL Electric Alerts at pplelectric.com/alerts. Customers can also check the status of an outage online at pplelectric.com/outage.

If you lose power, please report your outage online at pplelectric.com or text Outage to TXTPPL (898775).

For information on storm safety, outage restoration priorities and more, visit pplelectric.com/outage.

PPL Electric Utilities crews are at the scene of a pole down Thursday, May 23, 2024, across the northbound lanes of Stefko Boulevard in Bethlehem.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Met-Ed spokesman Todd Meyers:

Our Met-Ed crews assisted by line workers from Penelec, another FirstEnergy-owned utility, and contractors are making good headway from this mornings potent storm front which initially impacted about 17,000 customers in Lehigh and Northampton counties and nearby areas. We still have 112 customers out in Lehigh County and 3,700 (down from 8,100 at 3 p.m.) without electric service in Northampton County.

Assisting local Met-Ed crews to restore power are nearly 30 Met-Ed crews from Hanover, Dillsburg and Gettysburg, as well as 10 Penelec line workers from the Towanda and Montrose areas. Additionally, 13 contract line workers are pitching in to help get the lights back on.

The high winds knocked off-right-of-way trees and limbs into our electrical facilities, taking down wire and breaking poles and cross arms. We are continuing to assess damage in some harder to reach areas and dont yet have ETRs for power to be restored to all customers. All in all, there were more than 200 different damage locations. Crews are working to make repairs for outages with the largest customer counts. While many should be restored today, it is likely some of the areas with heavier damage or outages with smaller customer counts will not be restored until tomorrow. As of now, I dont have any additional information on where and when that might be.

As an important public safety reminder, everyone must assume that any wire they see on the ground is live and energized. Stay at least 30 feet away from downed wires  coming into contact with a live wire can have deadly consequences. Report downed wires to 911 or Met-Ed at (888-544-4877) 1-888-LIGHTSS, the same number where customers can report their outages.

JCP&L spokesman Christopher Hoenig:

Damage facing FirstEnergy Corp. JCP&L crews is seen Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Port Murray, Warren County.FirstEnergy Corp. photo

We expect the vast majority of customers will be restored this evening, with parts of Warren County extending into tomorrow. All outages that affect more than one customer have estimated restoration times available by logging on to the outage map at outages-nj.firstenergycorp.com. Those times are subject to change as crews continuing completing repairs. Single-customer outages will see an estimated restoration time of 11:30 p.m. tomorrow night (5/24), though those times will close in as crews are assigned to those repairs.

We are prioritizing restoration based on the number of customers affected by each outage, working from the largest outages down to those single-customer outages. Crews from our central NJ service area have come up to assist.

Currently, approximately 10,000 of the 25,000 customers affected by this mornings storms remain without power. Tree damage from the storms is extensive and the leading cause of outages, by far.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
The rollout of high-speed fibre broadband to over 750 properties in the Castlecomer deployment area, which includes the rural areas and townlands surrounding Durrow, Ballinakill, and Spink, is near completion.

That's according to National Broadband Ireland, the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan on behalf of the Government.



13,000 premises in Laois are included in the States Intervention Area, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools. As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Laois will receive 49m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.



Construction works are underway to connect 763 Laois homes, farms and businesses in the Castlecomer deployment area to broadband on NBIs high-speed network which is expected to be available between July and September this year. National Broadband Ireland is calling on people living near Durrow and the surrounding areas to visit nbi.ie/eoi to sign up for notifications on when they will be able be able to join the network.



Works have already been completed in other parts of Laois and there are a total of 9,990 premises that are available to pre-order or order high-speed, reliable broadband across the county with 3,312 connections made so far.



Peter Hendrick, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: We are delighted to announce that Laois premises in the surrounding areas of Durrow will be able to order high-speed broadband services through the National Broadband Ireland network in the coming months. This will enable users to experience the life-changing benefits that high-speed broadband provides.



Almost 10,000 homes, businesses and farms in Co Laois can now order a high-speed fibre connection to the National Broadband Ireland network. This includes: Almost 3,700 near Portlaoise, almost 2,600 premises near Mountrath, almost 1,900 near Ballylinan and over 1,200 along the county border near Carlow and Roscrea.



"We are working hard on the ground to progress other areas of the county through engineering survey, design and construction phases. We are encouraging Laois residents to visit the NBI website to check their Eircode and sign up for updates.
More than 400 patients were left waiting on trolleys at Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise so far this year, according to figures from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO).



The busiest month was February when 106 patients went without a bed at the hospital, 98 were on trolleys during both March and April, 79 in May and 64 in January.



On Thursday the HSE made a public appeal to due to pressure for space to accommodate patients at Portlaoise hospital.



"The Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise is experiencing a very busy period with a significantly increased number of people requiring admission to the Hospital. Where possible, the management at Portlaoise Hospital is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist, GP, GP out of hours service, or a local injury unit," it said.

Nationally over 1,591 patients have been on trolleys so far this week according to the INMO.



INMO Director of Professional Services, Tony Fitzpatrick described the figure as 'out of control'.



"This type of overcrowding is not normal for the month of May," he said.

"This level of unacceptable overcrowding coupled with the fact that nurses and midwives are constantly working short in many emergency departments and wards because of the HSEs recruitment freeze is bad news for patient and staff safety.

"Many funded nursing vacancies that are arising because of staff retiring, leaving or going on maternity leave are remaining unfilled because of the recruitment freeze. This is having a detrimental impact on staff morale and wellbeing. We have many reports of nurses being interviewed for posts and accepting posts, but no start dates have been provided to them. The freeze is still in place when there is unprecedented demand on our health services meaning that various departments and community services are working short.



"This level of overcrowding warrants a serious response from the HSE and individual hospital groups and cannot be allowed to continue into the summer. All vacant nursing and midwifery posts must be filled immediately by lifting the recruitment moratorium."
Government plans to means-test asylum seekers is about ensuring there is a fair system in place, Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said.

Ms McEntee said Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys is currently looking at means-test plans to be introduced next month, saying the move is based on a recommendation from the Comptroller and Auditor General.

Under the plans, international protection applicants will have their welfare payments cut if they are employed and earning more than 125 euro a week.

The Government has already reduced the social welfare payments for Ukrainian refugees who arrived after March from the job seekers rate of 232 euro to 38.80 euro per week.

Last week, it announced Ukrainians who fled to Ireland between 2022 and early 2024 and are living in state-provided accommodation will also have their allowances cut in the next three months.

The changes will not affect Ukrainians living in pledged accommodation and the private rental sector who arrived in Ireland before March this year.

Ms McEntee told RTEs Morning Ireland programme on Friday: Thats really to bring everybody in line to make sure that those who are here, those who have access to work, those who are available to provide for themselves, that they can provide for themselves. Thats why these payments are changing.

Asked whether the Government has assessed what youre dealing with before implementing the policy, Ms McEntee said: This has nothing to do with the numbers.

What were saying is that if a person is working  and this applies to anyone in the system, this isnt just for those of international protection or those coming from Ukraine  if a person is working and a person has the means to provide themselves, to fund themselves, to house themselves, then they shouldnt be getting higher level of state intervention or funding, and that applies to anybody in this country.

We need to make sure that our rules are fair, and that they apply across the board.

This is not about how many we can take out of the system. This is about making sure that we have a fair system that applies to people equally across the board.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said that means testing is part and parcel of the welfare system.

It seems to me consistent that it would apply in this case, she added.

Speaking at a local elections event in Monaghan on Friday, Ms McDonald said the people have been asking questions about immigration while she has been canvassing.

I dont think anybody should be surprised by that. When a change comes to your country or communities, people arent going to ask questions, she added.

I know people have been shocked by sights of tents on Mount Street, tents by the Grand Canal in Dublin, and rightly shocked by that.

The thing that people are most frustrated by, most shocked by, is the fact that the Government has failed to have any plan. The fact that the Government has failed to have any effective communication or consultation with local communities, and thats caused a problem.

I think that could have been avoided. I think it should have been avoided. I think we could have avoided much of the stress and strain that has happened.

Weve told people that what we need is a system that is fair, that is efficient, and thats enforced, a rules-based system.

Let me tell you, Ive been on doors now all around the place and, let me tell you, thats in my opinion, where the vast, vast, vast majority of Irish people are at, a system that is fair, thats efficient, and thats (lets) enforce a rules-based system.

We need a Government that can plan and that can manage things and doesnt leave everybody in the worst of all worlds.
An argument broke out between Micheal Martin and a Fianna Fail MEP candidate at the partys launch of its European election manifesto in Dublin on Friday.

Niall Blaney, a Fianna Fail senator from Co Donegal, accused the party of favouritism, to which Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader, Mr Martin, said all candidates had received significant support.

Mr Blaney is running for a seat in the European Parliament in the Midlands Northwest constituency, along with his party colleagues Barry Cowen, a Co Offaly TD, and senator Lisa Chambers.

A recent poll by the Irish Times puts Mr Cowen on 10%, Ms Chambers on 9%, and Mr Blaney on 4%, three of 27 candidates in the five-seater constituency.

At the launch of the partys European election manifesto in Dublin, Ms Chambers and Mr Blaney were asked whether they felt supported by their party.

Ms Chambers said there was a healthy tension between the Fianna Fail candidates in the constituency.

I wouldnt be contesting these elections without the support of my leader and my party, Ms Chambers said.

Theres healthy tensions within the party because our ticket is competitive, the constituency is competitive, and I think it shows that our party is doing well, because people want to contest elections on the Fianna Fail ticket.

Mr Blaney responded: Unfortunately, I am not getting the same support as other candidates are getting in this campaign, and thats a problem for me. It has been for weeks.

I have never had any opportunity on national television yet, Im the only candidate of the six.

That is not just about me, thats about the people I represent in the border counties and Connacht. We need the same opportunity as everybody else to make the most of the Fianna Fail vote and go for that second seat, its very much there.

He said that the Midlands Northwest constituency was in need of better infrastructure and was not getting our fair share.

I feel theres a real opportunity now to take a seat on the border and Connacht counties. But we need equal support for the last two weeks. And not just support for a few. If the Tanaiste goes on a canvass he goes on a canvass with all three, and if he goes to do videos with one candidate, he has to do videos with all three.

Mr Martin said that he had canvassed with Mr Blaney, and the only candidate he had not canvassed with yet was Ms Chambers.

When Mr Blaney responded to say there were two other candidates out on the canvass with him as well, Mr Martin said all the European candidates are with local election candidates.

Cynthia Ni Mhurchu, a Fianna Fail MEP candidate for Ireland South, interjected to say: Correct, I canvassed with you with other local candidates.

Mr Martin added: Theres huge support going to all candidates from the party. There is significant support going to all candidates.

When Mr Blaney was asked whether he would run as an independent candidate in another election, he said: My family name is in politics 98 years this year.

I come from a very strong republican (family), my grandfather is actually a founding member of this party. Im very proud of this party, very proud of the people I represent.

So I come here today not as Niall Blaney, but as the people I represent and their voice and their frustration.

And yes, apologies if I sound frustrated today, but that is as it is. But one thing for sure  Im a strong republican Fianna Fail advocate.
Israels reprimand of Irelands ambassador was totally unacceptable, the Irish deputy premier has said.

Micheal Martin made the remarks after Ambassador Sonya McGuinness was summoned to the Israeli foreign affairs ministry and reprimanded over Irelands decision to recognise the state of Palestine.

As proceedings started, Ms McGuinness was shown footage of Hamas that Israel claimed was filmed on October 7.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: I find that totally unacceptable and no way to treat diplomats, and is outside the norm by which diplomats are treated in any country.

On Wednesday, Ireland announced its recognition of the state of Palestine in a joint move with Norway and Spain.

The decision is to formally take effect in the three countries on Tuesday.

In response, Israel warned there would be severe consequences.

The Israeli foreign affairs minister, Israel Katz, claimed Ireland and Taoiseach Simon Harris had rewarded terrorism.

He said the Irish, Norwegian and Spanish ambassadors would be shown the footage as part of a severe demarche.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: Diplomatic channels are very important in terms of maintaining contact with people explaining governments respective positions.

Sonya McGuinness is an outstanding ambassador and we have consistently condemned the Hamas attack on October 7.

Israeli media outlets were also filming the meeting, Mr Martin said.

He added that Irish officials had anticipated that Ms McGuinness would be called to the foreign ministry but said showing her the footage in front of Israeli national media was something they had not witnessed before in other countries or jurisdictions.

Mr Martin added: Most people would accept internationally that thats not within the parameters of acceptable norms in terms of how people engage with diplomats.

I will communicate directly to, in writing if necessary, to the Israeli foreign minister because our speeches on recognition of Palestine were balanced.

In terms of my own contribution, it was very clear in terms of our rejection of any mono-ethnic approach to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Since Wednesday, Israeli officials have repeatedly criticised Irelands decision to recognise Palestinian statehood.

Mr Katz accused the Irish government of awarding a gold medal to Hamas.

Ireland, if your goal was to reward terrorism by declaring support for a Palestinian state, youve achieved it.@SimonHarrisTD, Hamas thanks you for your service. pic.twitter.com/mgz7ZGtnCi    Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) May 23, 2024

Mr Harris rejected the characterisation of the move and accused Israel of misrepresenting the views of Ireland.

On Thursday, he said: Any foreign ministry can call in any ambassador but what I will not tolerate is any country misrepresenting the position of the Irish people.

I am the leader of the Irish Government, I speak on behalf of Ireland and we have been clear and unequivocal that we condemn Hamas, that we condemn the most horrific, barbaric massacre that Israel experienced on the seventh of October.

We call for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages.

But it is entirely possible to say what I have just said and also say the next bit  which sadly some refuse to say  that what is happening in Palestine, what is happening in Gaza, is a humanitarian catastrophe.

Meanwhile, the Irish Government welcomed orders from the UNs top court directed at Israel to halt its military operations in Rafah.

The legally binding orders from the International Court of Justice came as part of provisional measures in the South African case against Israel.

In a statement, Mr Martin said: The orders are crystal clear. The court has ordered Israel to immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.

It has ordered Israel to open the Rafah crossing for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

And it has ordered Israel to ensure the unimpeded access to the Gaza Strip of any commission of inquiry, fact-finding mission or other investigative body mandated by competent organs of the United Nations to investigate allegations of genocide.

He added: Israel has chosen to disregard these requests but it cannot choose to disregard the orders from the International Court of Justice.

These are legally binding. They must be complied with.

However, the court has no police to enforce the orders.

Mr Martin said it was his heartfelt hope that a turning point in the conflict was being reached.

All parties must, with the utmost urgency, intensify efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages and massively scaled-up access and distribution of humanitarian aid.

Mr Martin, Irelands foreign affairs minister, will discuss a two-state solution with European and Arab partners in Brussels in the coming days.
KinderCare Learning Companies Applauds Bipartisan Effort to Support Working Families through Child Care Access





Child Care for American Families Act provides much needed support for businesses to expand access to child care for employees

LAKE OSWEGO, Ore., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN), Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL), Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) and Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) introduced the Child Care for American Families Act, federal legislation aimed at encouraging employers to provide child care benefits to their employees, whether that's on-site or near-site care or tuition benefits that reduce an employee's overall child care costs. This bill will expand childcare opportunities for working families by building upon the Employer-Provided Childcare Tax Credit.

The bill would provide qualifying employers with a tax credit, making it easier for companies of all sizes to find the funds necessary to support working parents through employer-sponsored child care benefits.

"The Employer-Provided Child Care Credit is a targeted solution that provides working families with the support they need through expanded access to child care. It also enables businesses large and small, to attract and retain a skilled workforce," said Paul Thompson, CEO of KinderCare Learning Companies. "We applaud Representatives Kustoff, Schneider, Tenney and Sewell for introducing the bipartisan Child Care for American Families Act that modernizes the existing credit and helps address the evolving needs of employers and working families. More than ever, employers are coming to KinderCare looking for child care solutions that meet the needs of their workforce. This credit will allow employers to make a sustainable investment in child care that increases access for their employees and their surrounding communities."

According to KLC's 2024 Parent Confidence Index, 65% of parents say they would stay at their job if their employer provided subsidized child care. Additionally, 78% of parents said confidence in their child care allows them to excel at work.

Learn more about KinderCare's child care offerings for employers here.

About KinderCare Learning Companiestm

A leading provider early childhood and school-age education and care, KinderCare builds confidence for life in children and families from all backgrounds. KinderCare supports hardworking families in 40 states and the District of Columbia with differentiated flexible child care solutions to meet today's dynamic work environment:

In neighborhoods, with KinderCare  Learning Centers that offer early learning programs for children six weeks to 12 years old and with Creme de la Creme School  , which offers a premium early education model using a variety of themed classrooms;

that offer early learning programs for children six weeks to 12 years old and with , which offers a premium early education model using a variety of themed classrooms; At work, through KinderCare Learning Companies for Employerstm , providing customized family benefits for employers across the country, including employer-supported child care benefits, on-site and near-site early learning centers and back-up care for last-minute child care, and

, providing customized family benefits for employers across the country, including employer-supported child care benefits, on-site and near-site early learning centers and back-up care for last-minute child care, and In local schools, with Champions before and after-school programs.

KinderCare programs meet the highest standards, validated by independent, third-party evaluation including:

Gallup , measuring workforce engagement,

, measuring workforce engagement, National Association for the Education of Young Children , ensuring individual early learning center quality,

, ensuring individual early learning center quality, Cognia , accreditation for before- and after-school programs

, accreditation for before- and after-school programs BRIGANCE  and TerraNova  assessments of children's academic progress and achievement, and

assessments of children's academic progress and achievement, and WELL Health-Safety Ratingtm, validating health and safety practices in our facilities.

Headquartered in Lake Oswego, Oregon, KinderCare operates more than 2,400 early learning centers and sites. In 2024, KinderCare earned its eighth Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award ? one of only two current organizations worldwide to achieve this milestone for eight consecutive years. To learn more, visit KC-Learning.com.

Media Contact

Colleen Moran

KinderCare Learning Companies

503-872-1300, option 3

[email protected]

SOURCE KinderCare Learning Companies

23 may 2024 at 17:09

News published onand distributed by:
Century Complete Expands Fort Myers Area Offerings With LaBelle, FL Community





Online homebuying pioneer now selling from the high $200s at Belle Arbor

FORT MYERS, Fla., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS)?one of the nation's largest homebuilders, an industry leader in online home sales, and the highest-ranked homebuilder on Newsweek's list of America's Most Trustworthy Companies 2024?announced that its Century Complete brand is now selling affordable and quality new homes in LaBelle, FL at Belle Arbor.

Boasting a charming small-town location near idyllic parks and marinas along the Caloosahatchee River, Belle Arbor also provides fast access to beaches, Gulf Coast fun, and employment opportunities in Fort Myers?only 30 miles away via I-80. Starting from the high $200s, the community offers an inspired selection of single-family floor plans, with modern open-concept layouts featuring up to 4 bedrooms and 1,811 square feet.

Learn more & view available homes at www.CenturyCommunities.com/BelleArbor.

"With limited homesites, a beautiful setting near the Caloosahatchee River, and a convenient drive to Fort Myers, homebuyers will want to act quickly to find their spot at this hidden gem," said National President Greg Huff. "Quick move-in homes are currently available for purchase through our quick and easy online homebuying process, with limited-time savings and USDA loan options available."

Specializing in quality new construction at affordable prices, Century Complete makes it easier than ever for buyers to find their dream home through the company's industry-first online homebuying process. Homebuyers can further streamline their experience and save on their home by financing with the company's affiliate lender, Inspire Home Loans. Buyers may also qualify for homeownership assistance programs. Ask a sales consultant for details.

MORE ABOUT BELLE ARBOR

Now selling from the high $200s



Single-story floor plans

3 to 4 bedrooms, 2 to 3 bathrooms, 2-bay garages

1,409 to 1,811 square feet

Limited new home warranty

Bilingual sales consultants available

Close proximity to Fort Myers and beaches

Quick access to I-80 for travel to either coast

Community Location:

878 Friendship Circle

LaBelle, FL 33935

239.810.0395

VISIT US AT OUR LOCAL SALES STUDIO!

Our industry-leading online homebuying process allows you to buy on your terms?24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. However, if you'd like in-person assistance, please visit us at our Sales Studio in Fort Myers.

3398 Forum Boulevard, Unit 106

Fort Myers, FL 33905

239.790.1440





DISCOVER THE FREEDOM OF ONLINE HOMEBUYING:

Century Complete is proud to feature its industry-first online homebuying experience on all available homes in Florida.

How it works:

Shop homes at CenturyCommunities.com Click "Buy Now" on any available home Fill out a quick Buy Online form Electronically submit an initial earnest money deposit Electronically sign a purchase contract via DocuSign

Learn more about the Buy Online experience at www.CenturyCommunities.com/online-homebuying.

About Century Communities

Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS) is one of the nation's largest homebuilders, an industry leader in online home sales, and the highest-ranked homebuilder on Newsweek's list of America's Most Trustworthy Companies 2024, consecutively awarded for a second year. Through its Century Communities and Century Complete brands, Century's mission is to build attractive, high-quality homes at affordable prices to provide its valued customers with A HOME FOR EVERY DREAM. Century is engaged in all aspects of homebuilding ? including the acquisition, entitlement and development of land, along with the construction, innovative marketing and sale of quality homes designed to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. The Company operates in 18 states and over 45 markets across the U.S., and also offers title, insurance and lending services in select markets through its Parkway Title, IHL Home Insurance Agency, and Inspire Home Loans subsidiaries. To learn more about Century Communities, please visit www.centurycommunities.com.

SOURCE Century Communities, Inc.

23 may 2024 at 18:51

News published onand distributed by:
SPC Nickel Closes Upsized Private Placement





/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE U.S./

SUDBURY, ON, May 23, 2024 /CNW/ - SPC Nickel Corp. (TSXV: SPC) ("SPC Nickel" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") of common share units ("Common Share Units") and flow?through common shares ("FT Shares").

Each Common Share Unit consists of one common share and one half of a purchase warrant of the Company (each whole warrant a "Warrant") to acquire one common share ("Common Share") at an exercise price of $0.07 per Common Share exercisable for a period of 18 months from closing.

In connection with the closing of the Offering, the Company issued an aggregate of 30,740,000 Common Shares Units at a price of $0.05 per Common Share Unit, for gross proceeds of $1,537,000 and an aggregate of 8,681,818 FT Shares at a price of $0.055 per FT Share, for gross proceeds of $477,500.

The Company paid finder fees to certain finders that assisted with the Offering. Such finder fees consisted of: (i) the payment of cash commissions totaling an aggregate of $35,850 (calculated as 6% of the gross proceeds raised by such finders) and (ii) the issuance of an aggregate of 681,272 compensation warrants ("Compensation Warrants") (calculated as 6% of the total number of Common Share Units and/or FT Shares sold by such finders). Each Compensation Warrant is exercisable to acquire one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.07 per Common Share for a period of 18 months following the date of issuance.

The gross proceeds from the FT Shares issued in connection with the Offering will be used to advance both the Company's West Graham Project, located in the world-class Sudbury Mining Camp, and the Company's Muskox Property, located in Nunavut. In addition, such gross proceeds will be used to incur Canadian Exploration Expenses ("CEE") that are "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures" (as such terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada)) on the Company's mineral properties. Proceeds from the Common Shares issued in connection with the Offering will be used for property general working capital purposes.

The securities issued in connection with the Offering, including any Common Shares issued upon exercise of the Warrants and Compensation Warrants, are subject to a four-month restricted resale period that expires on September 24, 2024.

Completion of the Offering is subject to all necessary approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Certain officers and directors of the Company participated in the Offering, which constitutes a "related party transaction" for purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ? Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Such participation is exempt from the valuation and minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 by virtue of the fact that the Issuer is not listed on a specified market set out in section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 and the value of Units or FT Shares subscribed for by such officers and directors is less than $2,500,000 in accordance with the requirements of section 5.7(b) of MI 61-101.

About SPC Nickel Corp.

SPC Nickel Corp. is a Canadian public corporation focused on exploring for Ni-Cu-PGMs within the world class Sudbury Mining Camp. SPC Nickel is currently exploring its key 100% owned exploration project Lockerby East located in the heart of the historic Sudbury Mining Camp that includes the West Graham Resource and the LKE Resource. SPC Nickel also holds three additional projects across Canada including the large camp-scale Muskox Project (located in Nunavut), the past producing Aer-Kidd Project (located in the Sudbury Mining Camp) and the Janes Project (located 50 km northwest of Sudbury). The corporate focus is on Sudbury and SPC Nickel continues to look for new opportunities to add shareholder value. Additional information regarding SPC Nickel and its projects can be found at www.spcnickel.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.

Except for statements of historical fact contained herein, the information in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities law. Such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "plans", "proposes", "estimates", "intends", "expects", "believes", "may", "will" and include without limitation, statements regarding estimated capital and operating costs, expected production timeline, benefits of updated development plans, foreign exchange assumptions and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate; actual results and future events could differ materially from such statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, metal prices, competition, risks inherent in the mining industry, and regulatory risks. Most of these factors are outside the control of SPC Nickel. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as otherwise required by applicable securities statutes or regulation, SPC Nickel expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE SPC Nickel Corp.

23 may 2024 at 19:00

News published onand distributed by:
All for A Berry Good Cause - Denny's Canada raises over $10,000 in support of women's health





VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In honour of Mother's Day and recognizing the importance of all mother figures, Denny's partnered with Women's Health Collective Canada (WHCC) earlier this month to host a special fundraiser. From May 7th to 12th, $2 from each Berry Stuffed French Toast Slam sold in 69 participating locations across Canada was donated to support women's health research in Canada.

Thanks to the unwavering loyalty of their guests, Denny's is thrilled to announce that they were able to raise over $10,000. This incredible amount of money will ensure WHCC can continue its collaborative work in creating access to better and more equal healthcare.





"We have always been active members of the communities we serve. We are honoured to partner with Women's Health Collective Canada on our Mother's Day fundraiser, supporting the move forward into more inclusive healthcare programs," shares Deborah Gagnon, President & Chief Operating Officer of Denny's Canada. "We're so thankful to our team members and guests for participating in these meaningful events over the years."

Founded in 2021, Women's Health Collective Canada (WHCC) is a strategic alliance of three of Canada's leading women's health and hospital foundations, the Alberta Women's Health Foundation (AWHF), BC Women's Health Foundation, and Women's College Hospital Foundation. The purpose of WHCC is to raise awareness for equity in women's health research.

Through intentional collaboration and unified advocacy, WHCC brings resources together to address the legacy of inequity through the following;

Supporting medical research that addresses the unique needs of women

Raising awareness of the gender health gap, dispelling misconceptions about women's health, and highlighting how healthy women create a healthier Canada

Broadening the scope and reach of world-class women's health programs to connect with every woman

Creating higher standards of care for all women

"Our Mother's Day partnership with Denny's demonstrates our shared commitment to support the health of Canadian women," says Cally Wesson, President & CEO of BC Women's Health Foundation. "At WHCC, our mission is to end the health research gap that, even today, continues to affect women. This initiative contributes to our work to close that gap. We are grateful to Denny's and every guest for making this possible."





For over 70 years, Denny's has been a place where everyone is welcome to sit down and connect. The renowned restaurant brand prides itself on working and actively engaging with their guests to make a positive impact through collaboration with meaningful organizations. They believe that local businesses and communities grow together when there is partnership and support.

For more details about our fundraising efforts, please visit https://www.dennys.ca/promotions/thank-you-whcc/.

ABOUT DENNY'S CANADA

Dencan Restaurants Inc., headquartered in Vancouver and owned by Northland Properties Corporation, currently operates and franchises 74 Denny's restaurants across Canada. Part of the highly regarded worldwide Denny's organization, Dencan Restaurants Inc. has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality food and guest satisfaction. From fluffy pancakes to crispy bacon, to juicy burgers, to something from the Fit Fare Menu, guests will always find delicious value and variety.

More information can be found at www.dennys.ca or on social @dennyscanada.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f91cd5d8-7033-40ff-abd9-5ea9f62eb4fa

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7d0debe3-95dd-4005-869b-2943ddc0ac10

24 may 2024 at 09:00

News published onand distributed by:
The French civil aviation authority has ordered airlines to cancel 70% of flights at Paris Orly airport on Saturday and Sunday because of a strike by air traffic controllers. The cancellations will affect commercial flights from 0400 GMT Saturday through to late Sunday, the DGAC authority said.

The strike comes as France's second busiest airport prepares for a massive influx for the Paris Olympics, that start July 26. It is the second major air traffic controllers strike in a month. The last one caused the cancellation of thousands of flights across Europe.

That dispute ended with an accord between airport authorities and the main union, the SNCTA. But the second biggest labor group, UNSA-ICNA, ordered the latest work stoppage saying that staffing levels were inadequate. "The managers at Orly continue their penny-pinching and shopkeeper accounts which will quickly lead to our teams being understaffed" by 2027, it said in a statement.

The government condemned the strike. "I deplore the behavior of some local level agents who refuse to recognize the legitimacy of a majority accord and are making passengers pay the price," Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete told Agence France-Presse.

Orly, south of Paris, is the capital's second-biggest airport after Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle and last year carried more than 32 million passengers. It is a hub for national carrier Air France and the home base for its low-cost subsidiary Transavia. More than 20 other airlines, including easyJet, Iberia and TAP, fly out of Orly. Only flights between Orly and French overseas territories would operate normally this weekend, the DGAC said.

Read more Subscribers only Paris Olympics: Rail staff offered bonus of up to 1,900 for working during Games
The UN General Assembly voted Thursday, May 23, to establish an annual day of remembrance for the 1995 Srebrenica genocide, despite furious opposition from Bosnian Serbs and Serbia. The resolution written by Germany and Rwanda  countries synonymous with genocide in the 20th century  received 84 votes in favor, 19 against with 68 abstentions and makes July 11 "International Day of Remembrance of the Srebrenica Genocide." "This resolution seeks to foster reconciliation, in the present and for the future," said Germany's ambassador to the UN Antje Leendertse.

Ahead of the vote, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic warned the General Assembly that the move "will just open old wounds and that will create complete political havoc." But he said he did not deny the killings at Srebrenica, adding that he bowed his "head to all the victims of the conflict in Bosnia." Following the vote, Vucic draped himself with his country's flag, before saying those behind the vote "wanted to stigmatize Serbian people  they did not succeed."

Church bells rang out across Serbia on Thursday in protest. The Serbian Orthodox Church said it hoped the gesture would unite Serbs in "prayers, serenity, mutual solidarity and firmness in doing good, despite untrue and unjust accusations it faces at the UN." Besides Serbia, all of the former Yugoslav republics voted for the resolution. Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, meanwhile, denied a genocide had even taken place in the Bosnian city and said that his administration would not recognize the UN resolution.

Bosnian Serb forces captured Srebrenica  a UN-protected enclave at the time  on July 11, 1995, a few months before the end of Bosnia's civil war, which saw approximately 100,000 people killed. In the following days, Bosnian Serb forces killed around 8,000 Muslim men and teenagers  a crime described as genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and the International Court of Justice. The incident is considered the worst single atrocity in Europe since World War II.

Read more Subscribers only In 1995, former Yugoslavia faced the Dayton Agreement's impossible task

In addition to establishing the memorial day, the resolution condemns "any denial" of the genocide and urges UN member countries to "preserve the established facts." In a letter to other UN members, Germany and Rwanda described the vote as a "crucial opportunity."

Threat to peace, security

However, there has been a furious response from Serbia and the Bosnian Serb leadership. In an attempt to defuse tensions, the authors of the resolution added  at Montenegro's request  that culpability for the genocide is "individualized and cannot be attributed to any ethnic, religious or other group or community as a whole." That was not enough for Belgrade.

The Srebrenica Memorial Centre praised the UN resolution, calling it proof that "we are not alone." UN rights chief Volker Turk, and rights group Amnesty also welcomed the move. But Human Rights Watch said it "leaves out any reference to the UN peacekeepers' dismal failure to protect thousands of Bosnian Muslim men and boys." Russia's UN ambassador, Vasily Nebenzia, said that "if the goal of the sponsors was to divide the General Assembly... then they've succeeded brilliantly." Moscow previously vetoed a UN Security Council resolution in 2015 condemning the "crime of genocide at Srebrenica."

Milorad Dodik, political leader in the Bosnian Serb entity  where thousands of people demonstrated this April against the resolution  said the Srebrenica genocide had been a "sham." The European Union has responded strongly, with foreign affairs spokesperson Peter Stano saying "there cannot be any denial" and "anyone trying to put it in doubt has no place in Europe." Several EU nations including Greece, Cyprus and Slovakia abstained, however.

For relatives of the victims of the massacre, the creation of a memorial day was an important step forward. "Those who led their people into this position [of genocide denial] must accept the truth so that we can all find peace and move on with our lives," said Kada Hotic, 79-year-old co-director of an association of Srebrenica mothers, who lost her son, husband and two brothers.
People gather at the site of a landslide in Maip Mulitaka in Papua New Guinea's Enga Province on May 24, 2024. STR / AFP

A massive landslide struck remote villages in Papua New Guinea's highlands Friday, May 24, with many homes buried and scores of residents feared dead. The disaster hit an isolated part of Enga province at around 3:00 am local time, according to government officials, when many villagers were at home asleep. Three bodies have so far been recovered, but there are fears that hundreds more may be entombed. The true toll may take days or weeks to become clear.

Provincial Governor Peter Ipatas told Agence France-Presse that "there has been a big landslide causing loss of life and property." He later said "six villages" had been affected and described it as an "unprecedented natural disaster."

Images showed a scene of total devastation, with a vast bite of earth cleaved from densely vegetated Mount Mungalo. The landslide left a vast brown scar of car-size boulders, felled trees and dirt that stretched down toward the valley floor. The twisted remains of corrugated tin shelters and an overturned minibus could be seen at the foot of rubble.

A rapid response team of medics, military, police, engineers and UN agency personnel has been dispatched to the area. Hospitals, health workers, relief agencies and government personnel across the region have been placed on an "active state of alertness."

Unknown toll

Prime Minister James Marape said the team would be there to help with "relief work, (the) recovery of bodies, and reconstruction of infrastructure." He added: "I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives."

Vincent Pyati, president of the local Community Development Association, told AFP the "landslide hit around three last night and it looks like more than 100 houses got buried," but the number of victims in unknown. Nickson Pakea, president of the nearby Porgera Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said there are fears that up to 300 people may have been there at the time, a number that could not be confirmed. Papua New Guinea's National Disaster Management Office did not immediately give a toll.

Aid agencies including the Papua New Guinea Red Cross and CARE said they were on standby and working to find out more. Red Cross PNG interim secretary general Janet Philemon told AFP the landslide location was remote and that it could take up to two days for emergency services or aid to reach the area. The nearest highway, which runs to the gold mining town of Porgera, was blocked, complicating relief efforts.

The Red Cross estimates the number of injured or dead could be between 100 and 500. But Philemon said she was "trying to get a clearer picture of what the situation is." The agency was ready to offer first aid, blankets and non-food items to those affected. "There is no indication of an earthquake or anything that may have triggered [this event]. It is a gold mining area and people may have been gold mining on that mountain," she said. Otherwise, the landslide may have been caused by heavy rain, Philemon suggested.

Sitting just south of the equator, the area gets frequent heavy rains. This year has seen intense rainfall and flooding.

Community leader Kandai said villagers had been fearful since a smaller landslide struck the same area earlier this year but "they don't have any place to move to." In March, at least 23 people were killed by a landslide in a nearby province.
French far-right Rassemblement National (RN) party's President and leading candidate for the June 9 European Union election Jordan Bardella (L) shakes hands with France's Prime Minister Gabriel Attal (R) as they arrive on the set for a debate on French state owned TV channel France 2, on May 23, 2024 in Aubervilliers, near Paris. THOMAS SAMSON / AFP

French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and far-right Rassemblement National (RN) leader Jordan Bardella locked horns Thursday, May 23, in a TV debate ahead of European elections, as the ruling party of President Emmanuel Macron seeks to narrow a growing gap in polls.

The RN is currently far ahead in opinion polls for the June 9 elections in France, with Macron's Renaissance (center) party in a battle for second place with the Socialists.

The debate between Attal, 35, and Bardella, 28, who leads the RN's list in the EU elections, was marked by tense exchanges on issues ranging from immigration to foreign policy with neither man gaining a clear upper hand.

Read more Subscribers only EU elections: French far right's Bardella debates PM seeking legitimacy and 'humility'

"We will in June have the most important European elections in our history," said Attal, adding that the world was at a "turning point" due to issues ranging from Russia's invasion of Ukraine to artificial intelligence.

Attal sought to paint Bardella as leading a party without substance that had no serious interest in Europe and a vision "of turning in onto ourselves and the end of the European Union." Bardella countered: "I am not against Europe. I am against the way Europe works now," calling for more "economic patriotism."

Polls have been making increasingly uncomfortable reading for Macron, who has had to fly to the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia to try to calm the violent unrest there. Coming third would be a disaster for the president, who portrays himself as a champion of European democracy and a bulwark against the far right.

The head of Macron's party list for the elections, the little-known Valerie Hayer, has failed to make an impact and was widely seen as losing a debate with Bardella earlier this month.

According to a Toluna-Harris Interactive study for French media, the presidential camp is stuck at just 15% of the vote and in a dogfight for second place with the Parti Socialiste (PS)  who are polling at 14.5%  led by former commentator Raphael Glucksmann. The RN, by contrast, is soaring ahead at 31.5%.

Read more Subscribers only EU elections: Raphael Glucksmann, the opponent Macron's camp never saw coming

'Were you lying?'

The RN's figurehead Marine Le Pen, who has waged three unsuccessful presidential campaigns, has sought to bring the RN into the political mainstream as she eyes another tilt at the presidency in 2027.

Bardella, who took over the party leadership from his mentor, is key to Le Pen's strategy, a gifted communicator of immigrant origin with an expanding following on TikTok.

Both he and Attal, according to polls currently France's two most popular politicians, are seen as part of a new political generation wooing the votes of young people.

Attal sought to play on the turnarounds of the party of Le Pen, which has now dropped previous calls of a French withdrawal from the EU and sought to distance itself from the extremist rhetoric of the Front National (FN) she inherited from her father Jean-Marie Le Pen.

"The method of the RN is to say 'we are against everything' and then in five or 10 years time when you realize you are wrong you say you have changed your mind. You were for Frexit  and now you supposedly want to stay in Europe!" he said.

"The question one has to be asked is when were you lying? Was it then or now?" Attal asked. "It's a caricature," Bardella hit back.

Turning to immigration, Bardella suggested that the EU's Schengen free travel space only be open to European travelers, an idea immediately rubbished by Attal.

On Russia, he accused Macron of "pouring fuel into the fire" by refusing to rule out sending troops to Ukraine, while Attal alleged that at one time the RN had an "alliance of mutual interest with Moscow."

Seeking to avoid a potential pitfall in the debate, Bardella on Tuesday said the RN will no longer sit in the EU parliament with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) faction, indicating it had lost patience with the controversies surrounding its German allies.

The head of the AfD's list in the polls, Maximilian Krah, had said in a weekend interview that someone who had been a member of the SS in Nazi Germany was "not automatically a criminal."

Read more Subscribers only European elections: Le Pen officially breaks with German ally AfD
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From left: Alicia Herbert OBE (FCDO); Hon. Minister Conrad Sackey (Sierra Leone); Hon. Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (Ghana); Hon. Minister Jarso Jallah (Liberia); and panel moderator, Dr. Vongai Nyahunzvi (Alliance for Women and Girls), speaking at Global Schools Forum side event in London.
One of the projected mining sites cleared by the company
President Boakai reads a statement at the opening of the first cabinet retreat of his administration, held May 23-25.
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The St Gabriels Foundation has unveiled plans for a new 7 million development

The announcement was made at the annual St Gabriels Ladies Summer Lunch, which took place in the Dunraven Arms Hotel in Adare.

With the sun signalling the start of summer, 220 ladies arrived at the Co Limerick hotel for lunch and laughter and the main aim of the day was to raise much-needed funds for the development of the old schoolhouse in Southill, which will be the permanent buildings of St Gabriels south city team.

Businesses from all over the Mid-West generously supported the event by donating raffle prizes and taking tables at the lunch  making it a resounding success.

Speaking at the lunch, CEO, St Gabriels Treasa McAuliffe said I was delighted to be able to show the proposed concept of our new south city team building at the lunch today. The building will be completely transformed. The 7million development will be the focus of our fundraising for this year and next and we hope to have the building completed and ready for families in 2026.

We are very grateful for the support we have received from the JP McManus Foundation to get the project off the ground. This building will make a huge difference to the children we are working with in the south city area. We cant wait for the build to commence, she said.

Treasa added that it was thanks to the hard-working volunteer committee and everyone that sponsors prizes and buys tickets that this event continues to be a success.

St Gabriels is very lucky to have such dedicated support when it comes to organising events like these. This year, our volunteer committee of Agnes Bouchier-Hayes, Rita Geary and Lucia Randles have brought all this together and we simply could not run events like this without them.

Donations from events like today help us to enhance the services. Every single donation makes a difference. We are very grateful for the support.

For further details about the work that St Gabriels do, visit www.stgabriels.ie
SOME of Europes brightest young engineers were in Limerick for a special summit.

The European Young Engineers (EYE) were in the area for their annual conference.

It was held in collaboration with the Engineers Ireland Thomond Region, the industry group representing professionals in Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary.

The event in Limerick coincided with the 30th anniversary of EYE, which is an international not-for-profit group representing around half a million young engineers from 20 European nations.

Their conference began on Thursday evening with a meet and greet at Dolans Bar in the city centre, where attendees enjoyed live Irish music and traditional dance performances.

The next day saw a series of company site visits, starting with the famous ESB power station at Ardnacrusha.

The site continues to generate renewable energy through hydroelectric power.

Staying in Clare, the engineers headed for Shannon, where they explored Jaguar Land Rover, with staff there designing some of the most advanced forms of transportation.

They also visited Atlantic Aviation Group and the Future Mobility Campus Ireland in Shannon, where they learned about innovations in aircraft maintenance, drone navigation, and autonomous vehicles.

On Saturday, the conference moved to the newly opened TUS campus at Coonagh, on Limericks northside which specialises in engineering.

Speakers included college president Prof Vincent Cunnane, council digital boss Alan Dooley and Wassim Derguech, the founder of Shannons Future Mobility Campus.

A gala dinner attended by Mayor Gerald Mitchell at the Limerick Strand Hotel brought things to a close.
SaaS fintech platform Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services on Thursday said its consolidated net profit more than doubled to 19.15 crore in the March 2024 quarter.

According to a regulatory filing, the company reported a net profit of 7.56 crore in the year-ago period.

During the quarter under review, the company's operating revenue rose 46 per cent to 273.37 crore against 186.85 crore in the January-March period of FY23.

The company, in a statement, said that the increase in other income stems from higher interest income on increased cash/bank balances post-IPO, which came out in September 2023.

For the full 2023-24 fiscal, Zaggle said it has recorded the "highest-ever annual performance in terms of revenue and profitability metrics".

Also Read | Sensex, Nifty 50 end flat on profit booking at record high levels The company's profit jumped 92 per cent to 44.02 crore during the fiscal compared to 22.90 crore a year ago.

Zaggle expanded its customer base during the year by more than 600 new corporates, including Wipro and Bennett Coleman, and onboarded bank partners like SBI and Axis Bank, the statement said.

Its revenue grew 40.13 per cent to 775.59 crore in FY24.

Also Read | Google to buy minority stake in Flipkart in fresh funding round The company is set to double revenue over the next two years through organic growth, its founder and executive chairman Raj P Narayanam said.

"Our expectation of revenue growth for this fiscal year is to the tune of 45-55 per cent. We are focused on garnering more market share and making significant investments in technology, specifically building deeper AI capabilities to cater to the massive demand for spend management solutions.

"We intend to pursue inorganic growth opportunities through mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, we plan to expand geographically into the US markets as part of our growth strategy," he said.
Consumer goods company Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL) is overhauling the skill sets its top leadershipthe Board  to keep pace with the changing times and be aligned to the demands of the consumer.

Indias largest packaged consumer goods company Board will now have to get into the details of cybersecurity, ESG (environmental, social, and governance), data governance among other topics that will impact the firm's growth and talent retention capabilities going ahead.

"In the last few years, the external environment in which the Company operates and the regulatory framework governing it have undergone significant changes. With an ever-increasing focus on cyber security, artificial intelligence, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) aspects, risk management, the skills/capabilities required of Directors in the context of business for efficient functioning of the Board has also evolved," said the company in its annual report for the year 2023-2024.

"In view of the above, the Board of Directors based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee approved and adopted the revised Board Skill Matrix of the Company on 26th February, 2024," the report added.

HUL will become among the first of the large companies which officially adopts an additional set of skill sets that its Board must have. Wile earlier some of the prominent skill sets were defined as a must have for the Board, this is the first time HUL has measured the extent of these skill sets that the directors have.

The skillset statistics According to the skillset statistics shared in the report, HUL found out that while 92% of its Board had leadership experience, barely 33% were aware about the details of cybersecurity, data governance and information technology. The entire Board was aware and skilled in need for having a "business with a purpose" while 75% had "experience of overseeing large and complex business operations requiring proven administrative and managerial skills".

The company's board currently comprises Nitin Paranjpe, Rohit Jawa, Leo Puri, Kalpana Morparia, Tarun Bajaj, Neelam Dhawan, among others.

HUL has a portfolio of over 50 brands, spanning 16 FMCG categories. In FY24, the company reported a turnover of 59,579 crore. The consumer firm's governance structure is multi-tiered, comprising the Board of Directors, Board Committees, CEO & MD and the management committee.

In April, the company had announced the appointment of B.P. Biddappa to HUL management committee as executive director, human resources and chief people, transformation and sustainability officer for South Asia. Biddappa's role is to lead the people's agenda for South Asia as well as drive the transformation interventions from a business, organization, and sustainability perspective.

The changes The change comes at a time with India becoming an important market for Unilever globally and talent emerging out of India has become visible within the company. In fact, HUL is touted to be a CEO factory churning out executives who now hold top leadership positionsCEOs and CXOsacross companies the world over.

Meanwhile, search firms are also on the look out for independent directors well versed with changing business needs as more than 1,000 independent directors are set to retire by June 2024. The empty positions are pushing companies across sectors to hunt for managing directors and chief executive officers who can take on the baton.

Board searches have become very specific. For instance, clients want directors who understand sustainability, digital first businesses, etc. Earlier it used to be, get us a director but now the parameters against which they are shortlisted is changing," said K Sudarahan is Regional Chair- Asia, at search firm EMA Partners India.
Plane maker expects to burn through billions more in current quarter and be cash-flow negative for the full year, finance chief says

Boeing said it would burn billions of dollars more than expected in the coming months and likely wont generate cash for the full year, signaling the jet maker is struggling to contain the financial fallout from cascading production and supply-chain issues.

A month after announcing a nearly $4 billion hit in the years first quarter, finance chief Brian West warned investors Thursday that the company is on track for a similar or bigger cash hole this quarter.

Boeing shares fell more than 7% in Thursday trading. The stock has lost roughly a third of its value so far this year, erasing more than $50 billion in market capitalization.

West also told investors that Boeing is unlikely to generate cash for the full year as the company deals with slowing production of its jets.

It is a bleaker picture from a month ago when the company said it expected to narrow its cash burn this quarter, and end 2024 cash-flow positive.

We have frustrated and disappointed our customers because of some of the production and supply-chain issues we are up against," West said at an industrials and transportation conference in New York. He added that Boeing should begin generating cash in the second half of the year.

Boeing is grappling with slower production of its bestselling 737 MAX jets as it roots out quality problems after Januarys near-catastrophe on an Alaska Airlines flight. The troubles have drawn increased regulatory scrutiny and triggered a management shake-up.

West said Thursday that 737 deliveries will remain well below the companys goal of 38 jets-per-month through June. Boeing delivered 67 of the planes in the first three months of the year and is on track for about the same number in the second quarter, he said. He said production will pick up later in the year.

We cant push the factory too hard or the system too hard because the payoff, if we do this right, is going to be big beyond 2025," West said.

Adding to the woes have been a string of unrelated issues that are both slowing production and preventing Boeing from delivering planes it has already built.

Problems range from parts shortages to the recent revelation, disclosed by Boeing, that its employees may have skipped some inspections on 787 Dreamliners and falsified inspection records. Boeing as of this week hadnt produced a new 787 this month, according to analysts. Dozens of the planes remain parked outside the jet makers North Charleston, S.C., plant awaiting delivery.

The companys monthly jet deliveries in April hit their lowest level since the onset of the pandemic, when the decline in air travel brought jet production to a near standstill.

The latest issue: Boeing said this week that China has temporarily stopped taking delivery of MAX 8 jets so it can review batteries included in the 25-hour cockpit voice recorder aboard the planes. U.S. and Chinese regulators are in talks about the matter, and Boeing said Wednesday that it would defer to those agencies.

The company said the Federal Aviation Administration and European regulators have signed off on the system, which meets requirements of some non-U.S. air-safety agencies that voice recorders capture 25 hours of audio instead of two.

Boeing had 85 of the China-bound MAX jets in inventory at the end of 2023 and delivered 22 so far this year. Deliveries resumed this year after a yearslong freeze by Beijing following two fatal crashes of the 737 MAX 8.

The company last month tapped debt markets to raise $10 billion as investors fret over the companys liquidity. It ended March with $7.5 billion of cash and investments, less than half what it had at the start of the year.

In April, Moodys Investors Service downgraded its rating on Boeings unsecured debt by one notch to Baa3, the lowest investment-grade level. Moodys expects that cash-flow pressures will persist through 2026.

Boeing has said it is in talks to acquire Spirit AeroSystems , which makes fuselages for the 737, to help improve its quality.

West said the company is optimistic it can reach a deal with Spirit by the end of June. The talks have dragged out amid negotiations with rival Airbus about control of Spirit factories that produce parts for Airbus jets.

Write to Sharon Terlep at sharon.terlep@wsj.com
Shifting from a hybrid work policy for all of its employees, Citgroup Inc and HSBC Holdings Plc are calling more US employees to offices full-time. The two companies are among Wall Street companies known for their flexible work culture. The shift in policy has come weeks ahead of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority's adjustment in rules for monitoring workplaces.

Citigroup asks 600 employees to commute to offices full-time Citigroup is asking its 600 employees to commute to company offices full-time, reported Bloomberg citing the New York-based firm's statement on Thursday. All of these employees were earlier eligible to work remotely for the bank.

Work from office to impact 530 HSBC staffers Nearly 350 employees are expected to be impacted by HSBC's shifting regulations, nearly half of the bank's workforce in the city. In an interview with Bloomberg, Mabel Rius, head of human resources for the US and Americas, told Bloomberg that the bank is speaking to its employees to consider their options for a smoother transition.

Although the company is attempting to transition to full-time work at the office, it is also trying to let as many people as possible retain the option of working from home, Rius added. HSBC's regional chief said a blanket five-day mandate for all staff is unlikely at the company.

End of remote work policy The changes come as the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority  the US brokerage industrys main watchdog  is set to adjust rules for monitoring workplaces in the coming weeks. The upcoming changes in the policy might put an end to the remote work for bank traders and dealmakers. Companies would have to bear extra cost and trouble if they would choose to continue work from home policy for their employees after Finra's shifting rules. Firms such as Barclays Plc and Deutsche Bank AG have been sizing up the burden as they weigh changes to their own policies.

In the US, banks are required to monitor staff and facilitate periodic workplace inspections. When Covid-19 broke out, regulators initially eased some of their rules to ensure people could work at home. Some of those accommodations are now poised to sunset.
The Delhi High Court has directed BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover and his wife, Madhuri Jain Grover, to provide security of 80 crores before travelling to the United States.

They must furnish the security by way of property and submit their Emirates Card to ensure they do not travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as they hold golden visas, as per Hindustan Times report.

The court has allowed the couple to travel separately to the US for their children's summer school after consulting with the Economic Offences Wing regarding their travel conditions.

Also Read | Tech Mahindra share price Today Live Updates: Tech Mahindra Stock Falls Amid Market Volatility

According to the Hindustan Times report, they must share details of their stay, including hotel accommodations, travel plans, and phone numbers, with the court and the investigating agencies.

According to the court's schedule, Ashneer Grover will leave for the US on May 26 and return to India on June 14, while Madhuri Jain Grover will travel to the US on June 15 and return to India on July 1, as per the report in HT.

Also Read | Apollo Tyres share price Today Live Updates: Apollo Tyres Stock Plummets in Trading Today

Additionally, the court has directed the couple not to create any third-party rights on the shares of BharatPe that they hold.

Also Read | Bharat Heavy Electricals share price Today Live Updates: Bharat Heavy Electricals Gains on Positive Trading Day
New Delhi: Even as Indian spices face the heat from regulatory authorities in Singapore, Hong Kong and Europe over unsavoury chemicals in their composition, another category of Indian foods is quietly but steadily finding its place on the plates and palates of the developed world.

Over the past few years, Indian ready-to-eat (RTE) food items have experienced remarkable growth in exports, especially to developed economies such as the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, etc. RTE food exports include breakfast cereals, sweets and snacks, biscuits and confectioneries, cane jaggery, wafers, paan masala, and betel nuts, among others.

Indias exports of RTE foods have more than doubled from $739.64 million in FY2019 to $1.52 billion in FY2024, according to data from the commerce ministry. The data suggests a positive trend in Indias export capabilities and competitiveness in the global market for ready-to-eat foods," said Ajay Srivastava, founder of Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), an independent non-profit that conducts research and analysis on global trade policies and practices.

The global prospects of Indian RTE food are very attractive," said Anand Ramanathan, partner and consumer products & retail leader at Deloitte India. There is a lot of interest in Indian cuisine. Many RTE/RTC (ready to consume) companies have grown exports much faster than domestic sales, and creating efficient channels of supply have helped grow the market by attracting new customers beyond the NRI community."

Also Read: India's electronics, pharma, engineering goods exports beat global trade slowdown during FY24

Meanwhile, RTE imports have grown marginally, from $304.96 million in FY2019 to $360.37 million in FY24. The FY24 figure marks a fall in imports of 13.6% from the previous fiscal year. Reduction in imports indicates changing domestic consumption patterns, and increased local production," Srivastava said.

Queries emailed to the commerce ministry spokesperson remained unanswered till press time.

Whats behind the surge

Experts said the surge in demand can be attributed to the convenience, diverse flavours and high-quality ingredients that Indian products offer, which is aligned with the fast-paced lifestyle of Western consumers. In particular, Indian breakfast cereals, sweets and snacks have become popular choices in Western markets.

According to commerce ministry data, the export of breakfast cereals shot up by 53.9% year-on-year (y-o-y) to touch $106 million in FY24, following a 38.2% y-o-y rise in FY23 to $68.88 million. Likewise, the export of Indian sweets and snacks rose 30.7% y-o-y in FY24 to touch $694.83 million. In FY23, it had risen 8.5% y-o-y.

The major export destinations for Indian RTE foods items are the US, the UK, UAE, Canada, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Germany, Japan and Netherlands, among others.

The awareness and appreciation of Indian products are deeply ingraining themselves into the minds of people abroad," said Jigish Devta, managing director of Deepkiran Foods, an Ahmedabad-based exporter of ready-to-eat food items.

There has been a notable shift in perception; whereas previously, foreign consumers might have turned to Indian cuisine out of necessity due to a lack of their own native options, now they choose Indian foods by preference. Made in India has transitioned from being a second choice to the first," Devta added.

The local market

In India, the value of RTE meals will grow by 45% from 2021 to 2026, reaching $64 billion, as per research from SATS, a leading in-flight catering service provider that comes out with research papers on RTE food segment.

Also Read: What eating at your desk says about your working habits

Trade experts view the growth of RTE products as a reflection of the evolving needs of consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z. These consumers, who are often short on time, seek culinary options that offer variety, quality, and time efficiency.

Food is extremely local, with distinct cuisine clusters across the country; this presents an excellent opportunity for food companies to grow the category by innovating with new ready-to-eat/ready-to-consume products by taking share from the unorganised market," said Ramanathan of Deloitte. The added convenience from these products also helps them increase their penetration in the respective regions and beyond."

To be sure, RTE, with $1.52 billion in exports in FY24, is still some way behind spices, which racked up exports of $4.25 billion in FY24, with 12% share of global trade in the fiscal.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will close the registration window to verify marks for Class 10th students today, May 24, 2024. Students who are unsatisfied with their marks in the Class 10 Board results can register for marks verification of their answer sheets by 11.59 p.m. today at cbse.gov.in. In addition to the mark verification, students can apply for photocopies of answer sheets and re-evaluation.

Although CBSE has taken a large number of possible steps in assessment and in the preparation of results, however, if students are still not satisfied with their evaluation/result, they are provided the facility for verification of marks, the facility to obtain the Photocopy of their evaluated answer books, and the re-evaluation of their answers," the CBSE board said while releasing the marks verification schedule.

Also Read | TBSE 10th, 12th Result 2024: Tripura Board results OUT at tbresults.tripura.gov.in  six steps to check scores Students must note that all these activities are time-bound and can be availed only online".

CBSE Class 10th Board Results 2024: Fee for marks verification Candidates must pay 500 per subject to avail of the marks verification facility.

Also Read | Over 8,000 IITians couldn't get jobs in 2024 campus placement drive, pay scale dipping below  10 lakh: Report CBSE Class 10 Result 2024: Steps to apply for marks verification Go to the official website: cbse.gov.in

Click on the verification process link, available on the homepage

A window will open; click the Apply Online link

Then click on the Class 10 Verification link.

Log in using your credentials: Roll Number, DOB, School Number, and Centre Number

Submit your request for the subject you want to verify

Complete your registration with a fee payment

Download and print the confirmation page for future reference. Students must note that a score decrease even by one mark will affect the results. In case of a change in scores, students will have to surrender the mark sheets, and new ones will be issued.

Also Read | CHSE 12th result 2024: Odisha board scorecard to be out on THIS date at chseodisha.nic.in; 6 steps to check marks here This academic year, the CBSE Class 10 examinations were conducted from February 15 to March 13, spanning over 26 countries globally. According to the CBSE data, over 39 lakh students registered for the Class 10th board exams. The overall pass percentage for class 10 was recorded at 93.60%. The gender-wise pass percentage: the girls recorded a pass percentage of 94.75%, while the boy's pass percentage was 92.71%. The number of students placed in compartment category (full subjects) decreased from 134,774 (6.22%) in 2023 to 132,337 (5.91%) in 2024.
TBSE 10th, 12th Result 2024: The Tripura Board of Secondary Education (TBSE) declared the TBSE Class 10 (Madhyamik) and Class 12 (Higher Secondary) results 2024 on Friday, May 24. Students who appeared for TBSE Class 10th and 12th exams this year can download their scorecard from the official website of Tripura Board through the following websites:

tbse.tripura.gov.in

tripuraresults.nic.in

tbresults.tripura.gov.in. The Tripura Board conducted the TBSE 10th board examination from March 2 to March 23 this year, and the TBSE 12th board examination took place between March 1 and March 30.

Also read: Maharashtra SSC 10th Result 2024: When will MSBSHSE board announce Class 10 results? Know all details here The TBSE 10th results registered a pass percentage of 87.54 per cent this year, while the TBSE 12th results recorded a pass percentage of 79.27 per cent. A total of 39 schools achieved 100 per cent pass percentage in Class 12, while 310 schools registered 100 per cent pass percentage in Class 10. This year, as many as 38,559 Class 10 students and 27,627 Class 12 students appeared for the TBSE board examinations 2024.

Essential credentials needed to download the TBSE Class 10 and 12 mark sheet include roll number and enrolment number.

Also read: CHSE 12th result 2024: Odisha board scorecard to be out on THIS date at chseodisha.nic.in; 6 steps to check marks here Here's how to check Class 12 and 10 scores online Follow the below-mentioned steps to download the scorecard:

Step 1: Visit the official websites of the Tripura Board of Secondary Education at tbse.tripura.gov.in or tbresults.tripura.gov.in

Step 2: On the homepage, click on the Tripura Higher Secondary or Madhyamik result 2024 link.

Step 3: This will redirect the user to the result login window.

Step 4: Provide all the necessary details, including roll number and enrolment number, and click on the submit button.

Step 5: The TBSE Class 12 or Class 10 result will be displayed on the screen.

Step 6: Download and save the result, take a printout and keep the hard copy for future reference.

Also read: NEET UG Answer Key 2024: Solutions to be OUT soon at exams.nta.ac.in; 6 steps to download, challenge them How to view scores using DigiLocker? Step 1: Open the DigiLocker app on a mobile phone or visit digilocker.gov.in.

Step 2: Select the Tripura board option.

Step 3: Select Class 10/12 results.

Step 4: Enter requisite information - roll number and date of birth and click on submit.

Step 5: The Tripura Board 10th/12th Result 2024 will be displayed on the screen.

How to check scores via SMS? In case there is no internet connection, students can check their scores via the SMS facility.

Step 1: Compose a new message

Step 2: Type an SMS with the format TBSE12 (Your Roll Number)

Step 3: Send it to 7738299899.
STRESA, ItalyThe U.S. and its allies are moving toward an agreement on a novel financing plan that would provide Ukraine with up to $50 billion, though Western officials are still working through important details on the use and structure of the funds.

The idea relies on the investment returnsmainly interest paymentsgenerated by the roughly $300 billion in Russian sovereign assets that the U.S. and Europe froze in their jurisdictions after the invasion of Ukraine. Biden administration officials have proposed creating a new financial instrument that would deliver many years worth of expected profits on the Russian assets to Kyiv in the short term while leaving the underlying Russian assets untouched.

The funding could provide another stream of aid for Ukraine as support for the war-torn nation has become mired in political divisions in the U.S. Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump has opposed money for Kyiv and officials involved in the talks see a narrow window to strike a deal before elections in Europe and the U.S. this year.

Finance ministers from the Group of Seven advanced democracies are discussing the funding questions in meetings this week in Stresa, a resort town along the mountainous coast of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. The U.S. goal is to refine the idea enough that the heads of governments that lead the G-7 could endorse it at their own gathering in the coming weeks, even if some technical work is left for the summer.

The details of the proposal have not been decided," Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said during a press conference Thursday. We are looking for general agreement on the concept and if were able to obtain broad agreement on the concept, well spend the next several weeks" finalizing details, she said.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the state news agency TASS last month that the U.S. would have to answer for the confiscation of any of Russias frozen assets. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree this week giving Moscow jurisdiction over American property in Russia to compensate for damages from any future seizure of Russian assets.

Under the discussed structure, Western nations would lend to a newly created financing entity, which would, in turn, disburse the money as grants to Kyiv, according to people familiar with the matter. The profits on the frozen Russian assets would then go toward paying back Western nations for the loan to the financing entity.

With this system, U.S. officials believe they could make the loan without Congress and at little cost, an advantage also for cash-strapped European governments. Because a financing entity would take out the loan, this structure would also avoid adding to Ukraines debt burden.

The U.S. plan has started to gain traction after months of divisions between Washington and European capitals over what to do with the frozen assets. With the support of the U.K. and Canada, the Biden administration has been pushing for seizing the Russian assets outright. Congress last month gave the U.S. the legal authority to take the small portion of the Russian assets under U.S. jurisdiction and use them to support Ukraine.

But other European countries have resisted seizing the assets, arguing that such a move could violate international law. Two-thirds of Russian central bank assets were in Belgian clearinghouse Euroclear when the assets were frozen days after Russia invaded Ukraine, giving Europe significant sway over the use of the money.

The latest plan avoids the thorny legal questions raised by confiscating another nations sovereign wealth. It also draws from an existing European plan to send the returns on the Russian assets to Ukraine this year. The first 1 billion, roughly $1.1 billion, from the Europe plan is expected to go to Ukraine by July 1, the first of what officials said could be up to 4 billion euros this year.

The American idea is to accelerate multiple future years of Russian interest payments into one, larger financing package available to Ukraine as soon as this year. I would like to thank the U.S. for changing their position and putting on the table a position that is consistent with international rule of law," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said in Italy.

Le Maire said he would propose a European variation of the U.S. plan, which will be discussed over dinner Friday evening, a French official said. The person said the French idea mainly involved the structure of the plan, in particular how the risk is shared across the G-7 countries.

For the financing proposal to succeed, the European Union would have to amend its plan to send returns on the Russian assets directly to Ukraine. The timing of that change will be sensitive, European officials said, but they could still channel proceeds from the assets into the U.S. proposal next year. Another open issue is whether Kyiv should be allowed to buy weapons with the money or whether the G-7 should restrict the use of the money to fund Ukraines reconstruction.

The size of the package would depend on how far into the future Western officials lay claim to returns generated by the Russian assets. One question hanging over the talks is a possible end to the war in Ukraine, when Russian assets may be returned to Moscow. That could cut off the revenue stream dedicated to paying back the loan, meaning G-7 nations may have to ultimately bear the cost of the plan.

European countries want to ensure that the plan fairly accounts for the possibility that the G-7 nations have to pay for the funding. Yellen said on Thursday that even if the West eventually loses control of the Russian assets and their proceeds, Moscow would still likely be forced to pay for the Ukraine aid.

I dont believe as a general matter that its necessary to block the assets until the money is paid back," Yellen said. We hope that there is a peace agreement. In the course of such an agreement, decisions could be made for Russian compensation for Ukraine."

Write to Andrew Duehren at andrew.duehren@wsj.com and Laurence Norman at laurence.norman@wsj.com
Bengaluru: Training models is difficult and its hard for everyone in the industry, said Andrew Feldman, CEO of US-based artificial intelligence company Cerebras Systems, at the Mint Digital Innovation Summit 2024 on Friday.

Why is training models difficult Why is training models difficult? Because large models dont fit on GPUs (graphics processing units). This means developers must cut the model into many pieces and spread them over hundreds and thousands of GPUs. They must rewrite the model to work across clusters. This means they go from about 600 lines of code to more than 20,000 lines of code, said Feldman.

This is what we sought to avoid. We did that by building chips. By building chips and memory systems which were vastly larger than even the largest models. We put these chips in the systems that we design, he added.

Feldman further added, "We use these systems to build clusters and over time these clusters became larger and larger to the point where today we are building the largest supercomputers in the world.

Once you have solved the difficulty of models, you can use computers to do interesting AI work, Feldman noted.

AI model work As we work with various players in the industry, these three behaviours describe the dimensions of the majority of the players, said Feldman.

Explaining this further, he said, Either you have model building expertise which is exceptional, you have rare interesting data in which to find insights, or you have access to a partner that provides competitive differentiation.

Cerebras Systems is an American artificial intelligence company with offices in Sunnyvale and San Diego, Toronto, Tokyo and Bangalore, India. The company builds computer systems for complex artificial intelligence deep learning applications.
The Securities and Exchange Commission approved the first U.S. exchange-traded funds holding ether, the largest cryptocurrency behind bitcoin, in an about-face that surprised the crypto community.

The new funds, known as spot ether ETFs because they buy and sell the digital currency itself, will allow mainstream investors to buy and sell ether as easily as stocks or mutual funds. Ether is the in-house token on the Ethereum blockchain, an open software platform for developers to build and operate crypto applications, much like iOS or Android.

A spokesperson for the SEC said the agency wont be commenting beyond the approval order.

Thursdays decision paves the way for the eventual trading of ether ETFs, by allowing exchanges to list such products. At least 10 asset managers, including BlackRock and Fidelity Investments, applied to launch the first batch of ether ETFs. Those companies still need approval to start trading their specific funds on the exchanges through a filing called an S-1. The SEC could stall on approving that step.

The ruling marks at least a partial retreat from SEC Chair Gary Gensler s efforts to keep crypto from becoming more ingrained in traditional finance and potentially opens the door for other funds backed by smaller, riskier tokens.

The SEC approved funds that directly hold bitcoin in a landmark decision in January, only after losing a court challenge. In that case, however, the funds started trading the next day because the asset managers S-1 applications were approved concurrently. Before that, everyday investors who wanted to buy and sell digital currencies had to either trade on crypto exchanges and incur hefty transaction fees or purchase products that track the token in less direct ways.

The bitcoin ETFs have been a smash hit , raking in more than $30 billion in investor assets and helping feed into a frenzy that has sent the cryptocurrencys price to a record high .

It isnt clear, though, that the same demand exists for funds backed by ether. More than half a dozen futures-based ether ETFs are already on the market, and they havent attracted much interest.

At $450 billion, ethers market value is about one-third the size of bitcoins, and the tokens price can be prone to sharp moves in either direction. Ether was little-changed Thursday. It has climbed 22% over the last four trading sessions as traders ramped up their bets of the ETFs approval.

Some investor watchdogs protested the decision, calling it a mistake by the securities regulator. Better Markets, a group that advocates for oversight of the financial sector, cautioned that ether is an extremely volatile asset" and said that the Ethereum network itself has features that make it vulnerable to fraud and manipulation."

The SEC failed to live up to its mission to protect investors and the markets," the group said.

The decision caught the crypto industry by surprise because it suggests that Gensler has given up his fight to classify ether as a security, securities lawyers say.

The SEC chair had long suggested that tokens outside of bitcoin were securities, instead of commodities. The distinction determines which agency oversees the asset and the regulations to which it is subject.

The SEC was thought to be considering whether to sue companies that touch the network behind ether as part of the fight. Crypto firm Consensys sued the agency pre-emptively last month after receiving subpoenas and a request for testimony from a senior officer.

Classification as a security would have likely led to an industry crackdown . Crypto exchanges and brokerages could have faced penalties for having sold an unregistered security, or even been forced to stop selling the coin.

Yet Thursdays approval of the commodities-based ether ETFs suggests the SEC has concluded the token isnt a security after all.

Asset managers including Grayscale Investments , Invesco and Galaxy Digital applauded the SECs decision and said they hope it indicates a willingness by the agency to approve the final launch of the products.

The crypto industry has scored some recent wins in Congress as well, with some Democrats siding with the increasingly crypto-friendly Republicans and spurning Genslers hard-line approach.

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives voted 279-136 for a bill that rejects the SECs approach of handling most cryptocurrencies as securities and strengthens the role of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, a regulator widely seen as more crypto-friendly.

Although the bill is unlikely to pass the Senate, the White House said in a statement that it was eager to work with Congress to ensure a comprehensive and balanced regulatory framework for digital assets." The statement cheered crypto executives who noted that President Biden didnt threaten to veto the bill. The industry has stepped up its campaign spending ahead of the November election, threatening to target lawmakers hostile to crypto.

The asset managers say the SEC appeared to make a U-turn on the ether ETFs in recent days.

They had broadly expected the SEC to deny their applications due to its lack of engagement. That changed Monday, when the regulator asked issuers for updates to their applications just ahead of the decision deadline. In the case of the bitcoin ETFs, the SEC had asked questions and given feedback on submissions for more than a month prior.

The updated applications show minor changes, with some asset managers removing staking, which allows investors to earn interest on their ether holdings. The process allows ether owners to pledge their holdings and computing power to help the Ethereum network verify transactions.

That activity has been in the SECs crosshairs. In February 2023, the regulator ordered crypto exchange Kraken to stop offering staking in the U.S. and sued Coinbase Global a few months later.

The Ethereum network has grown popular in recent years. Unlike with bitcoins network, developers can build applications on top of it, in a similar manner to how apps are built for iOS or Android. The surge in usage has similarly raised the value of ether, the networks token that powers transactions.

Write to Vicky Ge Huang at vicky.huang@wsj.com and Caitlin Ostroff at caitlin.ostroff@wsj.com
SINGORE, - Chicago wheat gained more ground on Friday, with the market poised for its biggest weekly rise in a month as concerns over crop losses in the Black Sea region and other exporting countries supported prices.

Corn firmed while soybeans edged lower.

FUNDAMENTALS

* The most-active wheat contract on the Chicago Board of Trade rose 0.4% to $7.01 a bushel, as of 0036 GMT, taking the weekly rise in prices to 7.6%.

* Corn added 0.3% to $4.65-1/4 a bushel and soybeans fell 0.1% to $12.38-1/4 a bushel. For the week, corn has risen 2.7% while soybeans are up marginally.

* Lower forecasts for Russia's wheat production have fuelled a rally in the wheat market, which jumped to its highest in 10 months this week. There are worries over adverse weather in other major producers like Ukraine, Australia, France and Germany.

* The International Grains Council cut its forecast for 2024/25 global wheat production on Thursday, with the outlook for key Black Sea producers Russia and Ukraine downgraded.

* The inter-governmental body, in its monthly update, trimmed its 2024/25 world wheat crop outlook by 3 million metric tons to 795 million tons.

* Germany's wheat crop will shrink by 5.6% this year to 20.31 million metric tons, the country's association of farm cooperatives said in its latest harvest estimate on Thursday, continuing forecasts of reduced crops.

* Corn futures were supported by doubts over South American production.

* Soybean farmers in Brazil's southernmost state, where rain and flooding have disrupted field work for weeks, have now harvested 91% of their soy area, up from 85% last week, crop agency Emater said on Thursday.

* Commodity funds were net buyers of CBOT corn futures on Thursday and net sellers of soybean, soyoil, wheat and soymeal futures, traders said.

MARKET NEWS

* U.S. stocks ended sharply lower on Thursday as enthusiasm over Nvidia's quarterly results faded and robust economic data fuelled concerns over tighter-for-longer monetary policy.

DATA/EVENTS 0600 Germany GDP Detailed QQ SA, YY NSA Q1 0600 UK Retail Sales MM, YY April 0600 UK Retail Sales Ex-Fuel MM April 0645 France Business Climate Mfg, Overall May 1230 US Durable Goods April 1400 US U Mich Sentiment Final May G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meet in Stresa, Italy, to debate global economic development
Jaggi A young man is caught in a cycle of abuse after word of his impotency spreads in his high school and hes assumed to be gay by his peers. This film about toxic masculinity in rural Punjab is directed by Anmol Sidhu, who makes his feature debut. Featuring Ramnish Chaudhary as Jaggi. (MUBI)

Also read: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga review: The rocky road to revenge Atlas Scientist Atlas Shepherd (Jennifer Lopez) is sent to capture a renegade robot in th, a is sci-fi film. She must put her mistrust of artificial intelligence aside when things dont go according to plan. Directed by Brad Peyton (San Andreas) and co-starring Sterling K Brown, Mark Strong and Simu Liu. (Netflix)

A still from 'Atlas'

Barah by Barah Sooraj is a photographer who takes portraits of the dead on the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi. As the city changes and his livelihood is threatened by the march of technology, he must figure a way forward for himself and his family. This is the first feature by Gaurav Madan; it stars Gyanendra Tripathi, Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, Harish Khanna and Bhumika Dube. (In theatres)
Imagine growing up in Berlin, through the two world wars, with Albert Einstein as your neighbour and mentor? Hanna Fischer, the daredevil protagonist of Matthew Reillys new best-seller Mr Einsteins Secretary, has this bittersweet legacy thrust upon her. Born to a German father and an American mother, Hanna is gifted with an insatiable appetite for science. With the rise of the SS and Hitlers ascendancy, Hannas parents are brutally murdered, in separate incidents, while her twin sister Norma is left at an asylum for the mentally challenged. While Einstein helps Hanna flee to America from Berlin under siege from the Nazis, the young girl has to make a life for herself in the foreign land. She trains as a secretary, works in corporate America, and eventually becomes Einsteins secretary for a while. Later, Hanna spends the war working as a secretary to Albert Speer and Martin Boorman, two of Hitlers most important henchmen, but actually being a double agent for America. Although Reilly takes liberties with historical facts and liberally splashes colour to liven up his story, there is never a dull moment. The best part: this breathless spy thriller will make you want to go back to the original sources for a deeper understanding of what exactly happened. (Hachette, Rs.799)

Cal Newports latest book is a much-needed antidote to hustle culture and toxic productivity

Acclaimed author and computer science professor, best known for his theory of deep work", Cal Newport has never been your assembly line self-help writer, even though his material tends to veer into that zone. Be it his approach to time management and productivity, or advocacy for digital minimalism and a world without emails, Newport has always arrived at his ideas through rigorous cognitive behavioural science, reporting, and a deep dive into historical trends. Slow Productivity is no different. Its central thesis is brilliantly counter-intuitive.

For us to be at our most productive, we need to embrace the first principles of working slowlyor, in other words, perpetual busyness doesnt equal productivity. The idea isnt radical or novel but Newports analysis of it, based on scores of interviews with lapsed busy-bees and drawing on figures from history, is fresh and thought provoking. If you work at a job where your main duty seems to be sitting at meetings all day, if you take pride in your split-second response time to emails and messages, if stretching your work week into unseemly hours validates your self-worth and, most of all, if you are burnt out but dont know how to move out of this rut, this book may change your life. (Penguin Business, Rs.599)

View Full Image The Gentleman from Peru, Acimans latest, leaves the reader with a peculiar aftertaste.

WHATS NEW, MR ACIMAN?

Andre Acimans latest novel mixes his luminous realist style with his interest in the otherworldly

Andre Aciman took a decade to achieve celebrity after his 2007 novel Call Me By Your Name was adapted for the screen by Luca Guadagnino in 2017. It led millions to his early work, such as the beautiful memoir Out of Egypt(1995). His novel Enigma Variations (2017), much superior to Call Me By Your Name to my mind, was critically acclaimed, too. Then something happened. Find Me, the sequel to Call Me By Your Name, felt like less a creature of Acimans vivid imagination than that of his publishers desire for a sequel to keep the cash registers ringing. Its plot was flimsy and the writing a tad too sentimental even for those who had wept copiously for Timothee Chalamet and Arnie Hammer in the movie. Now, The Gentleman from Peru, Acimans latest, leaves the reader with a peculiar aftertaste. Undeniably, there is ample evidence of his narrative genius, but it also feels as though Aciman is trespassing into a territory of mysticism and occult that readers associate with writers like Paulo Coelho. Fittingly, the story is set in summer, on an island on Italys Amalfi coast, where a group of American tourists are spending lazy days of hedonismuntil the eponymous Peruvian gent arrives to spice up their lives. (Faber, Rs.599)

LOST ALONG THE WAY

Shortlisted for the International Booker Prize, Ia Genbergs haunting novel asks deep questions

Swedish writer Ia Genbergs novel The Details, translated into English by Kira Jossefson, is a thing of beauty though, unlike John Keats claim, it isnt a joy forever. The point of this short novel, in contrast, is to make us confront the people who have come into our lives and dropped off. They may be friends or lovers, who inspired such deep stirrings in our youthful hearts that we never imagined living without them. Even though our mature selves come to terms with these losses, do we ever completely stop loving the people who once meant so much to us?

Framed by this question, The Details is narrated by a woman who, in the throes of a fever, starts to remember her passionate, yet skewed, relationship with Johanna, now a famous broadcaster. As the memories come tumbling in, we get a glimpse of the high noon of their love and its brutally abrupt end. This episode segues into three further portraits: of Niki, Alejandro and Brigitte. Each comes with its share of baggageunruly tempers bursting forth as they nurture sordid secrets, young men and women in search of meaning, desperately clinging to each other, only to cut themselves loose from those ties. Genberg clinically dissects these relationships from the vantage point of her distance from the pasta method that deeply moves you, but also leaves a residue of discomfort, as you think back on similar losses in your own life. (Wildfire, Rs. 599)

View Full Image In spite of some iffy reviews, we highly recommend this gem of a novella to immerse yourself in on a slow afternoon.

THE MASTERS VOICE

Gabriel Garcia Marquezs lost novel is a testimony to his storytellers genius

Earlier this year, Gabriel Garcia Marquezs family, in collaboration with his long-time editor Cristobal Pera and translator Anna McLean, published his lost novel" Until Augustto mark his 97th birth anniversary. Marquez had planned to write a magnum opus of 600 pages, when he got waylaid by Memories of My Melancholy Whores(2005). Until August, imagined as a collection of short stories about the erotic adventures of a middle-aged woman, Anna Magdalena Bach, remained incomplete. In spite of some iffy reviews, we highly recommend this gem of a novella to immerse yourself in on a slow afternoon, fortified by the gentle hum of the air-conditioning and a glass of chilled lemonade. This novella is not only a testament to a literary genius last hurrah, it is also an example of the transformative power of editing. In the age of AI, when editors are being written off, Pera shows how poring over each word of a manuscript can stitch together an astonishing narrative of love and death, the two great themes that run through the finest works of Garcia Marquez.

Every year Anna Magdalena Bach returns to the island where her mother is buried to leave a bouquet at her grave. On this annual pilgrimage, she lets herself shed the tired identity of mother and wife, and enjoy a one night stand. The prose is limpid, flushed with the humidity of late summer, and despite its leanness, conveys a sense of a whole life lived, yet also not lived fully. Some secrets, we learn, are taken to the grave unbeknownst to even those closest to the person. (Viking, Rs. 599)

FINDING RADICAL ACCEPTANCE

Najwa Zebian grapples with the most uncomfortable truth of lifethe need to embrace change

Lebanese-Canadian author, activist and educationist Najwa Zebian rose to prominence during the covid-19 pandemic with her instapoetry", where she wrote about the defining challenges faced by immigrant youth like her in their adopted countries. She documented her personal struggles in Welcome Home, an account of defying her conservative familys wishes and choosing a life that felt authentic to her. The Only Constant extends this narrative by focusing on a specific aspect of Zebians long journey of self-discovery: her challenges with navigating change, both positive and negative.

As with most books straddling self-help and memoir, The Only Constant has its fair share of platitudes: If you allow yourself to be ruled by other peoples acceptance of you, youll never move forward". Yet, the book has its moments, especially when Zebian is able to weave in her personal narrative or stories of real people who have worked their way through tough change. Her condemnation of gaslighting, for instance, hits the spot: We let things get to a point where its not about what we want but about what we can no longer survive. While thats effective motivation, it sets a dangerous standard." (Hachette, Rs.599)

View Full Image Dream Machine by Appupen and Laurent Daudet will give you a reality check.

IN SEARCH OF ETHICAL AI

A powerful graphic novel that demystifies the myths, mysteries and potential of machine learning

If you are hyped about the next development in AI and machine learning, Dream Machine by Appupen and Laurent Daudet will give you a reality check. At the heart of the story, illustrated by Appupen, is Hugo, the CEO of an AI company called KLAI. When Hugo receives a lucrative offer from global tech behemoth REAL.E, aiming to transform the landscape of gaming, AI and employment, he is understandably thrilled. Even though REAL.Es jaw-dropping deal to collaborate with KLAI comes with several strings attached, it promises to open new horizons of growth. When Hugo starts scratching the surface of REAL.Es business model and its megalomaniac CEOs aspirations for world domination, shocking truths begin to emerge about data mining, compromising the privacy of citizens, and the creation of algorithmic monsters trained on biases and prejudices that wreak havoc on democracy.

The more potent these tools, the more they are able to influence the outcomes of elections and perpetuate hate-mongering. Thankfully, nihilism isnt the be-all and end-all of the story. Hugos final decision offers a silver lining, bolstered by the support of a small but dedicated community of scientists and researchers advocating ethical use of AI. Perhaps technophobia, tempered by a healthy dose of scepticism, isnt a bad thing at all. (Contxt, Rs. 599)

Also read: Ranjan Adiga's Leech & Other Stories: The world in a grain of sand

A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE

Gripping stories that explore the aftermath of Bangladeshs War of Independence

Shah Tazrian Ashrafi is a new star on the firmament of English writing from the subcontinent. His debut collection, The Hippo Girl and Other Stories, bristles with a primal energy, segueing into horrific scenes of cruelty and outbursts of uncontained violence.

Ashrafi follows an august line of writers, such as Selina Hossain or Akhtaruzzaman Elias, who have captured the devastations of Bangladeshs liberation war, in prose and poetry as well as in English and Bengali. The uniqueness of these stories come not just from revisiting the ravages of the past but also from observing their lingering impact on the present. Hippos, stately but strange presences, are ubiquitous in the stories, which are linked only tenuously. These animals are hangovers from the colonial days, brought into the country by the British, now strewn around like relics. Their interactions with humans are fraught, at times erupt in violence, and these creatures also forge bonds with, and between, people.

Ashrafis stories hold up a mirror to Bangladeshs present, where tensions of class, gender and ethnicity collide every day. The roots of these conflicts go back to ancient enmities built during the tumultuous days of the war. Some of the best stories in the volume centre on the lives of women and the youth of contemporary Bangladesh, each opening up new worlds of emotion. (Hachette, Rs. 399)

View Full Image In the book, Raghavan explores the intersections among the lives and ideologies of towering figures like Asaf Ali, Sarojini Naidu, Syud Hossain, Syed Mahmud and Aruna Asaf Ali.

CONVERSATIONS WITH FRIENDS

A luminous account of friendships and differences that blossomed around the fight for independence

Biographies of historical figures, especially if they have made significant contributions for the greater good, are easy to write. There are archival and traditional sources galore to refer to, and its easier to create a focused narrative on a singular personalityeven tempting to slide into hagiography. T.C.A. Raghavan eschews these short-cuts in Circles of Freedom: Friendship, Love and Loyalty in the Indian National Struggle. In the broadest sense, this book could have been a biography of Asaf Ali, activist, lawyer and the first Indian ambassador to the US, but Raghavan takes the complex, rewarding route of interweaving other lives into his narrative.

No one is an island, especially when it comes to driving revolutions, though history, especially Indian colonial history, is prone to creating cults of hero-worship. In contrast, Raghavan explores the intersections among the lives and ideologies of towering figures like Asaf Ali, Sarojini Naidu, Syud Hossain, Syed Mahmud and Aruna Asaf Ali. The result is a richly humane, informative and illuminating story of friendships forged, forsaken, and some recovered, during one of the most critical phases of Indias history. Written with a flair for storytelling, substantiated by solid historical research, Circles of Freedom is not only an unusual book but also an urgent read for our times, when inter-religious marriage and the public perception of Islamic culture remain simmering issues. (Juggernaut, Rs.799.)

SURVEILLANCE CAPITALISM

A deeply reported narrative of the human costs of AI and emerging technology on modern societies

Madhumita Murgias Code Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AIisnt just another book about the next big tech that Silicon Valley is incubating. Its not about a dystopian takeover by the robots leading to a next-level War of the Worlds either. Rather, shortlisted for the Womens Prize for Non-Fiction 2024, this book is about the potential for humans to exploit other humans by exerting insidious control over their behaviour through technology. In one of the most arresting scenes, early in the book, Murgia goes to Kenya to report on AI as a driver of employment. Inside a building run by a tech service centre, she encounters rows of young men who spend their days training driverless cars to navigate obstacles. The magic that unfolds in Silicon Valley is enabled by agents stewing in dingy offices in Nairobi, working for a fraction of the salary that Silicon Valley tech executives earn.

As Murgia shows, the future is already here, where AI and other emerging technologies are making crucial decisions about healthcare, education and human rights affecting communities across the world. The weaker the community, the more closely its subsistence will be at the mercy of tech. It opens up a rabbit hole into the workings of cheap labour, individual and state surveillance, and much more that eludes our ordinary cognition. (Macmillan, Rs.699.)

Somak Ghoshal is a writer based in Delhi.
Remember the late 90s? The dotcom bubble had fueled an investment frenzy in internet firms. This investor euphoria, however, was short-lived. The bubble burst in 2000, sending global markets into a tailspin. By 2003, Indian markets and the rest of the world were limping back to normalcy.

That year, Reliance Mutual Fund (MF) embarked on an organizational restructuring a journey that ultimately ended with the Japanese insurer Nippon Life Insurance buying out Reliance's stake in the asset management company (AMC).

It was also in 2003 that Sundeep Sikka joined Reliance MF, now known as Nippon India MF, in a senior leadership role. Sikka, now the executive director and chief executive officer, has been at the helm of Nippon India MF since 2009.

Some of Nippon India's MF schemes are very popular among investors. These include its small-cap mutual fund, which is ranked first in terms of assets under management (AUM). Earlier, the AMC itself topped the AUM rankings in the country but has slipped to fourth place over the years. It currently has 4.31 trillion in AUM held under various schemes.

Two decades ago, though, the company had in its earlier avataar as Reliance MF plumbed the depths. It has since made a recovery after the 2003 restructuring that brought in Sikka and other banking greats such as Amitabh Chaturvedi.

A new venture

Reliance MF started in 1995 as a joint venture between Reliance Capital, founded by the late Dhirubhai Ambani, and later led by his son and industrialist Anil Ambani. It was around this time that private MFs in the country began to offer Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) for investors.

Reliance MF, too, had its share of MF schemes via debt, equity, hybrid, and retirement funds and offered SIPs for these schemes. The AMC, said some experts tracking the industry over the years, were initially focused on corporate clients and not retail money. Yet, it was unable to exploit the market and consolidate its growth. The decline started soon after.

It was in 2003, soon after the dotcom bubble burst, that Reliance MF decided to revamp its MF business. By that time, the AMC had already slipped to the bottom of the rankings. It then hired banking veteran Amitabh Chaturvedi from ICICI Bank to head the business as its chief executive. Sikka, who was the regional head at ICICI, joined in November that year and was put in charge of the Mumbai sales team.

View Full Image ...

Shailesh Raj Bhan and Amit Tripathi also joined the firm as fund managers at around the same time. They have since become chief investment officers of equity and debt respectively. Under Triphati, they suffered a massive setback when they were exposed to Yes Bank Tier-1 bonds and Reliance ADAG (Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group) bonds.

The new management was in place by that year-end, but it had to find newer ways of pushing its products in the absence of a banking parent, unlike some other asset management firms. The solution  go all out to build relationships with distributors, better known as independent financial advisers at that time.

Old timers in the industry still recall the partnership that Reliance forged with NJ Investments. NJ was inconsequential at that time but is now the biggest national distributor. That was one of the most successful partnerships at the start," recalled Karan Datta, who worked as a competitor at that time for Axis Mutual Fund.

The revitalized fund house came up with strategies that drew the attention of retail investors. While the bigger AMCs were focusing on metropolitan cities, the new management at Reliance saw untapped opportunities in smaller cities and towns. Leveraging the household name of Reliance and a good network of distributors, they started tapping small-town retail investors. And it worked. Besides, the firm could count on its star fund manager Madhusudan Kelawho had joined Reliance MF prior to the revamp.

The dynamic duo of Kela and Sunil Singhania, were renowned for their stock-picking abilities . Schemes such as the Reliance growth fund, managed by Kela, did exceedingly well and distributors were only willing to pitch it potential clients. It was like the Mirae funds of that time," recalls Arun Kumar, head of Research FundsIndia. By 2007, the fund house had become the largest AMC in the country in terms of AUM.

Also Read: Meet the champions of momentum investing who beat competition in bull market

In the asset management business, when you are so sales-focused, you also cross the line sometimes," said a former executive of a rival mutual fund company who declined to be identified. But imagine the power of Reliance combined with the largest distributor network on the back of impressive performance."

The NFO blunder

It just took three years for Reliance MF to regain lost ground. Its success story within a short time of the restructuring became the talk of the town. Taking advantage of its growing popularity and reach, the firm decided to launch NFOs, or new fund offers, in 2006. That, in hindsight, was a catastrophe. The firm collected a record Rs.5,700 crore for its Reliance equity fund in 2006, the biggest ever at that time. It also launched the Reliance Natural Resources Fund and collected roughly around the same amount in 2008. But these mega NFOs came at a big cost in the wake of the global financial crisis in 2008, which resulted in massive losses for the investors in these NFOs.

That episode taught me the lesson that we shouldnt do mega NFOs and should instead focus on getting investors into existing schemes. Now were restricting ourselves from such NFOs," said Sikka.

Meanwhile, the company introduced SIP insured, a financial product that had a mix of mutual fund and insurance built into it. In the event of an investor's death, the insurance would help the deceased's family to meet the financial goal for which purpose the SIP had been started. Mutual fund distributors immediately latched on to the SIP insured guarantee, pitching the product aggressively to potential investors. The product turned out to be immensely popular. But, Reliance had to drop it midway in 2022 following a directive from the market regulator to stop bundling insurance and mutual funds.

Also Read: How CAMS is tackling SIP bounces and enhancing investor experience

Another innovation from the fund house was the launch of an ATM card that allowed investors instant withdrawal of money from ATMs. The withdrawal was based on the funds invested in mutual funds but also came with a cap. However, the market regulator put a stop to it, saying fund houses cannot function as quasi-banking institutions. Nevertheless, all the new schemes helped the fund house get a large number of investors on board. By 2010, it became one of the first few AMCs to have an AUM of 1 trillion.

The Japanese skit

By 2005, Chaturvedi had already left and Vikrant Gungnani was heading Reliance MF. In 2009, Gungnani was shifted to a group-level position and Sikka took over as the CEO. At 36, he was the youngest chief executive to run an AMC. In 2010, Kela also shifted to a new role with the fund house's parent firm Reliance Capital.

Separately, Reliance Capital was looking to pare its stake in the fund house. Nippon Life sniffed an opportunity to tap into Indias young population and bought 26% of Reliance MF in 2012.

Following the stake sale, the fund house changed its name to Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management. (RNLAM) The new company embarked upon an ambitious expansion plan. Sikka spearheaded the acquisition of Goldman Sachsasset management business in 2015 and this got the fund house access to various passive funds and ETFs (exchange-traded funds).

If ETFs are good for investors and if I dont give it to them, then someone else will," said Sikka when his critics worried about the low profitability of the passives business. At that time, the ETF business of Goldman had 7,460 crore in terms of AUM.

Within seven years, its AUM had spiralled to 1 trillion in AUM and the number of investors burgeoned to 10 million. ETFs currently form 26% of the entire AUM, and with this the fund house became the second largest passive and ETF player behind SBI MF. It runs the most popular passive schemes in the country such as the Nifty BeES, Nifty Bank BeES and Gold BeES. With this acquisition, Sikka proved his critics wrong.

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In 2017, RNLAM became the first AMC in India to list on the bourses but its funds were slowly beginning to lose their lustre. The fund house took a huge bet on undervalued PSU, engineering, and infra stocks that underperformed. These made no sense as these sectors were laggards due to poor economic recovery during the 2014-2019 period. This resulted in underperformance of funds during that period," said Nirav Karkera, head of research at Fisdom.

Sikka had other things to worry about. RNLAM had invested over 2,500 crore in tier-1 bonds of Yes Bank. The bank collapsed in 2020, and the consequences were grave for the AMC. The company also had very high and riskier exposure to bonds issued by Reliance ADAG (Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group). The repercussions led the fund house to lose its top ranking and sink to the sixth position in terms of AUM by 2021.

Enter the Nippon

In 2012, Nippon Life bought a 26% stake in the fund house for 1,450 crore. But, the insurer wanted a bigger share of the pie. It gradually increased its stake, first to 35% in 2015. Subsequently, in 2019, Nippon raised its stake to 75%. It also helped that Anil Ambani's Reliance Capital was also looking for funds to clear debts. Post this, RNLAM was renamed Nippon India Mutual Fund (NIMF) and Sikka was introduced to the Japanese way of running a business.

The fund house did not effect any management changes, in line with the Japanese insurer's belief in stability and longevity. Yet, the focus was on making the fund house a faceless organization. Industry experts said the Japanese believe that systems, and not individuals, sustain businesses. So, the thinking was clear: To insulate itself from management exits, Nippon wanted the organization to do the talking and not individuals.

The new company also wanted to cut down its over-reliance on fund managers. This is because one of the reasons for the poor performance of MF schemes between 2014 and 2019 was attributed to too much leeway given to the fund managers. Currently, they have a 17-model framework for picking stocks. Fund managers have the freedom to work within the model but cannot bypass it. For instance, if the model recommends the purchase of 30% of some stocks, fund managers have to do so within the upper and lower limit of either 35% or 25%, respectively. On the debt side too, the fund house has restricted exposure to security papers that are rated AA and above.

The fund house soon reaped the benefits of these new policies. Nippon's small-cap fund, which has a unique strategy of investing in over 200 stocks and managed by Samir Rachh, is now a retail favorite. It is also the largest in the small-cap category.

Rachh maintains a low profile, as does Shailesh Bhan, the equities CIO who, like Sikka, has spent more than 20 years in the company. To be sure, none of the fund managers command a cult following like Kela or Singhania.

The fund manager culture is gone and now theyre more about processes," said Kumar of FundsIndia. He added, You dont get to see much of them on TV. It's fine as long as the funds perform. But what will happen if and when things turn for the worse?"

Meanwhile, Sikka continues to aggressively follow the policy of getting new investors on board. He also wants to now focus on one area that has remained largely ignored: The more profitable alternatives business which was started in 2014. The fund house has not witnessed a surge in offshore money to its India-focused funds, despite the Japanese tag. Sikka, however, believes that he will be able to deliver on this count.
(Bloomberg Opinion) -- Hillary Clintons recent criticism of young pro-Palestinian protesters  that they dont know very much about the history of the Middle East, or frankly about history in many areas of the world, including our own country  drew angry rebukes from the left. For student activists who wish to prove her wrong, Id like to offer a modest proposal.

This Monday, the US will mark Memorial Day, which, as some students surely know, grew out of the Civil War and was originally called Decoration Day, after the practice of decorating the graves of fallen soldiers. Even as the holiday took on different meanings in the North and South (where it became an occasion to propagate the Lost Cause), the regions shared a common practice: northerners tended to Confederate graves and southerners tended to Union graves.

Those simple acts of decency, respect, and solidarity  though hardly ending the nations bitter divisions  were small symbolic victories for the better angels of our nature that Abraham Lincoln had appealed to prior to the war. And they are just what we need more of today.

Even as civil war is once again on peoples lips, many Americans will take part this long weekend in commemorations and parades that transcend partisanship. Together, they will honor all those who died in uniform defending the freedoms we enjoy, including the freedom to march and protest  and even to be rude and crude while doing so.

On Christmas Eve last year, my wife and I were among the several hundred people singing carols around the Washington Square Park Christmas tree in New Yorks Greenwich Village, when pro-Palestinian protesters tried to drown us out with honking horns and chants. One protester shouted obscenities and insults at a caroler who was trying to shield an elderly woman from the bullhorn that had been thrust next to her ear, frightening her. Even Ebenezer Scrooge would have blushed.

Instead of joining in solidarity with all of us celebrating the birth of someone born in Palestine who always sided with the poor, oppressed, and peacemakers, these protesters only aimed to be provocatively disruptive, to maximize media coverage and clicks. And so instead of winning sympathy and friends, they lost both.

I tell this story because it often seems that pro-Palestine protesters are less interested in broadening public support for their cause than in venting righteousness. Elite college campuses, where righteousness reigns, have been natural staging grounds. But just as righteousness without restraining leadership tends to veer into harassment, intimidation and violence, it can also blind people to the complexities of history.

Whether students are, as Clinton suggested, ignorant of these complications or not, the black and white framework many use for speaking about the issue  oppressor vs. oppressed, colonial power vs. indigenous victim  suggests, if nothing else, narrow-mindedness. Thats further underscored when some protesters are reluctant to unequivocally denounce the slaughter of Israeli civilians on October 7th and the anti-Semitism the protests have fueled.

That reluctance has done the people of Gaza no favors. There would be broader and deeper sympathy in the US for their tragic plight  and for putting more pressure on the Israeli government to outline a post-war plan for Gaza, as one of its ministers is now demanding  if their most vocal champions abroad were equally vociferous in denouncing terrorism and anti-Semitism, which, as history teaches, can lead to unimaginable horrors.

So, heres my proposal to help protesters prove Clinton wrong  to demonstrate that they do understand history, or at least US history. And its simply this: Observe Memorial Day.

Instead of taking part in a protest, join a parade.

Instead of picking up a bullhorn, place a flower on a soldiers grave.

Instead of waving the Palestinian flag, wave the US flag in appreciation for those who fought to liberate Europe from Nazism and fascism.

Instead of demanding that others support the Palestinian cause, show support for the sacrifices so many have made to sustain and advance our shared American cause.

Instead of noisy provocations, visit a synagogue or Holocaust museum and offer a silent prayer for American Jews killed in combat.

In short, protesters should allow their better angels to reveal themselves, by treating the holidays honorees with the respect and solidarity that we all owe them.

Doing so wont end the political divisions over Gaza, of course. But it would help protesters show that they understand a central truth of US history: Our freedom to protest has come at a steep cost, and those who have paid it deserve our eternal gratitude. And it may even help win them more supporters.

If, on the other hand, Memorial Day weekend is just another occasion to shout slogans with righteous rage, protesters shouldnt be surprised if more Americans conclude: Clinton had a point.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Frank Barry is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and member of the editorial board covering national affairs. He is the author of the forthcoming book, 'Back Roads and Better Angels: A Journey Into the Heart of American Democracy.'

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion
Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) leader Medha Patkar was convicted in a criminal defamation case on Friday. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena had lodged the case against her in 2001. The Delhi court

Delhi's Metropolitan Magistrate Raghav Sharma found Patkar guilty of criminal defamation under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.

Under the relevant law, the activist may get a jail term of two years or fine or both as the punishment, news agency PTI reported.

Patkar and Saxena were locked in a legal battle since 2000. Patkar had earlier filed a suit against Saxena for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA). Saxena was then the chief of Ahmedabad-based NGO National Council for Civil Liberties.

Saxena had later filed two cases against her for making derogatory remarks against him on a TV channel and issuing a defamatory press statement.

As per Live Law, Saxena had filed the case in 2001 against Patkar for defaming him in a press note dated November 25, 2000, titled "true face of patriot.

In the press note, Patkar had reportedly said Saxena was a coward and not a patriot.

What Delhi court said while convicting Patkar? The Delhi court judge said on Friday that Patkar's actions were deliberate and malicious, aimed at tarnishing Saxena's good name and have caused substantial harm to his standing and credit.

The accused's statements, calling the complainant a coward, not a patriot, and alleging his involvement in hawala transactions, were not only defamatory per-se but also crafted to incite negative perceptions, the court was quoted by Live Law as saying.

The judge also concluded that Patkar's decision to label the complainant as a "coward" and "not a patriot" was a direct attack on his personal character and loyalty to the nation.

Such allegations are particularly grave in the public sphere, where patriotism is highly valued, and questioning someone's courage and national loyalty can cause irreversible damage to their public image and social standing, the court said.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Friday arrested one more accused in connection with Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast case. This is the fifth person to be held in the matter.

The accused was identified as 35-year-old Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu. He is an ex-convict in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case.

"Thirty-five-year-old Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu, a resident of Hubbali city in Karnataka, was previously convicted in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case," the agency said in a statement as per news agency PTI.

NIA investigations revealed that Mirza was allegedly involved in this fresh conspiracy after being released from jail. In 2018, he had reportedly befriended and introduced accused Abdul Matheen Taahaa to an online handler suspected to be abroad, the probe agency said.

Mirza further provided an e-mail ID for encrypted communication between the handler and Abdul Matheen Taahaa, who was arrested on April 12 from his hideout in Kolkata (West Bengal) along with co-accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib, the NIA was quoted by PTI as saying.

A low-intensity blast had rocked the famous Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru on March 1, injuring at least 10 people. The latesr arrest came three days after a massive crackdown across four states in the Rameshwaram Cafe Blast Case.

In a coordinated action, NIA teams searched 11 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, andAndhra Pradesh. Extensive searches were conducted at the premises linked with 11 suspects in the case, in which an IED explosion at the cafe on ITPL Road, Brookefield in Bengaluru, Karnataka had left several customers and staff members injured, the NIA said in a statement.
Delhi Lok Sabha Elections 2024: The Excise Department has issued a notification mandating the closure of all liquor stores and licensed premises in the National Capital Region ahead of Phase 6 polling for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 in Delhi on May 25.

The order ius in compliance with the Election Commission of India orders.

Congress has allied with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as part of the INDIA bloc, aiming to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in a closely contested battle. The national capital will vote in a single phase for all seven constituencies, on Saturday, marking the penultimate phase of the elections.

Also read: Delhi Lok Sabha elections tomorrow: From bus, metro, traffic advisory to liquor stores; Know what's open, what's closed The authorities imposed several restrictions on polling day, including a 48-hour ban on liquor sales.

In Delhi, Haryana's Faridabad, the dry day order will remain effective until 6:00 p.m. on May 25. These restrictions and rules are in compliance with the Election Commission of India (ECI) 's orders. To guarantee free and fair voting in elections, the ECI has mandated that cities scheduled for polling observe a dry day on the day of voting.

Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: All set for pitched capital battle as 7 Delhi seats vote in phase 6 this weekend As per the order, liquor stores and other licensed outlets selling alcohol are barred from initiating sales from May 23, 6:00 p.m. onwards. In addition, liquor will not be sold in these cities on June 4, the vote-counting day.

Also read: Delhi polls: Going to vote for Lok Sabha elections tomorrow? Celebrate with discounted feasts at THESE restaurants Haryana's Gurgaon is also scheduled to cast votes on Saturday. The Gurgaon district administration announced another set of directives. The authorities ordered all liquor shops in the city to remain closed for 48 hours in the wake of the Lok Sabha election.
Delhi is gearing up for the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for Saturday, May 25. Congress has allied with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as part of the INDIA bloc, aiming to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The national capital will vote in a single phase for all seven constituencies, marking the penultimate phase of the elections.

Authorities in the national capital have imposed several restrictions on the polling day, including a 48-hour ban on liquor sales.

Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Complete list of 58 seats voting in Phase 6 on May 25 Lok Sabha Election in Delhi Here is what is open and what is closed on the polling day:

Liquor shops The excise department has notified that all liquor storesand licensed premises in Delhi and adjoining areas, including Faridabad and Gurgaon, will remain closed on May 25. This directive is in accordance with orders issued by the Election Commission of India.

The closure will remain effective until 6:00 p.m. on May 25. The orders have been in effect since May 23, 6:00 p.m. Moreover, liquor sales are prohibited in the national capital on June 4, the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 result day.

Also read: Lok Sabha Elections: CCTVs, drones, 31,000 policemen, Security beefed up in Delhi for phase 6 voting. Delhi schools It should be noted that schools in the capital city have been shut down due to the heatwave. Consequently, the Delhi government directed all private schools to start summer vacations immediately.

Banks Additionally, banks will be closed on May 25, the fourth Saturday of the month. In the fifth phase, the Reserve Bank of India declared a bank holiday in certain cities.

Also read: Sonia Gandhi's message to Delhi voters: 'Every vote of yours will create employment, empower women.' What's open? Delhi Metro The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that metro train services on all lines will commence at 4 am on May 25, the voting day in the national capital.

A post on the official handle of DMRC on X states, On the day of the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi on 25th May, Delhi Metro train services on all lines will start at 4 a.m. so that the staff deployed for election duty can avail the facility. The trains will run with a frequency of 30 minutes on all the lines until 6 a.m."

It adds, The trains will run with a frequency of 30 minutes on all the Lines till 06:00 AM. After 6:00 AM, normal Metro trains services will run throughout the day (SIC).

Bus service The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) will operate additional bus services across 35 routes starting at 4 am on May 25 to facilitate movement to and from polling stations in Delhi. Similarly, the Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) will provide services on 46 routes.

Traffic advisory Delhi Traffic Police has not issued any traffic advisory yet for the polling day, but the advisory issued for May 24, stated, In view of Lok Sabha Elections-2024, traffic restrictions will be effective on 24.05.2024. Kindly follow the advisory.
The moments before and after the boiler blast at a chemical factory in Dombivli in Maharashtra's Thane district on Thursday, May 23, were captured in a CCTV camera.

In a CCTV footage, just before the blast took place, one worker was seen taking a seat while three others standing. Soon, a blast took place and glass shards flew. Following that, the employees rushed out to save themselves.

Here are key updates 1) The blast took place at a Amudan chemical factory located in Phase 2 of Dombivli MIDC in Maharashtra's Thane district on May 23 around 1.30 pm.

2) The blast caused a massive fire killing at least 11 people and injuring 60 others.

3) Those injured in the blast are undergoing treatment at AIMS, Neptune and Global hospitals.

4) The blast was heard a kilometre away. Glass windows of adjoining buildings cracked.

5) Large pieces of the reactor of the Dombivli chemical factory fell 1 kilometre away and the lid of the reactor fell 200 meters away on a factory, reported ANI.

Also Read | Maharashtra news: Boiler blast triggers fire at Dombivli chemical factory

5) Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident. Plans were afoot to shift hazardous chemical factories from Dombivli to Ambernath MIDC, Shinde said.

6) On May 24, Siddhesh Kadam, Chairman of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, visited the site and discussed plans to prevent future tragedies. He said the work is underway to complete the rescue operation as soon as possible.

8) Pradeep Mehta and Malay Pradeep Mehta  the owners of Amudan Chemical Private Limited  have been booked under various sections.

Also Read | Dombivli blast: What caused the accident

9) Five police teams have been formed to arrest the accused who are currently absconding.

10) CM Eknath Shinde has announced a compensation of 5 lakh each to the kin of the deceased. He also assured that the government would take care of the treatment of the injured.

Opposition vs government

Ambadas Danve says: "There has been no Industrial Safety Department here. The management of this factory is responsible for the blast. The Industrial Safety Department has been ignorant towards this. Under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray a meeting was held in this area." said Ambadas Danve, LoP in Maharashtra Legislative Council.

Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis says: Speaking to ANI, Devendra Fadnavis said that any factory cannot be moved in a day and these (Dombivli) factories should be given an alternate space.
Russian state nuclear corporation-Rosatom head Alexey Likhachev said that India will get next-generation nuclear fuel this summer, further calling India a key partner in the nuclear area, reported Russia Today (RT).

Atomic Energy Commission chairman Ajit Kumar Mohanty was hosted by the Russian Atomic Chief in Siberia's Tomsk region in Russia on Thursday. The Russian Atomic Chief showed Mohanty the fourth-generation site that will host the safest atomic reactor in history, RT-India reported.

Moreover, the head of Rosatom Likhachev also praised the cooperation between the two nations, calling India a key partner in the nuclear area.

Earlier on Thursday, Mohanty and the head of Rosatom held meetings in Seversk, Tomsk region.

The leaders of Russian and India nuclear industries visited the site of the Pilot Demonstration Energy Complex (PDEC) being built in Seversk, Tomsk region, as a part of the "Proryv" ("the Breakthrough") strategic industry project, according to a statement by Rosatom.

During the joint visit, a full-scale discussion took place on the perspective areas of the Russian-Indian cooperation in the nuclear field.

"We are ready to serious expansion of the cooperation with India in the field of using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. This includes first of all, serial construction of the Russian-designed high-capacity nuclear power units at a new site in India, implementation of land-based and floating low-power generation projects, cooperation in the nuclear fuel cycle area, as well as in the field of non-power applications of nuclear technologies", Alexey Likhachev said.

Atomic Energy Commission chairman Mohanty is visiting Tomsk, Russia, with the Indian ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday shared the rationale behind the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) target of 400 seats and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s 370 seats in the Lok Sabha elections 2024, saying, Abki baar 400 paar slogan came from people's hearts.

From 2019 to 2024, we had 400 seats with the support of our allies. For example, if a child in your family scored 90 marks, and his competitors only got around 40 marks, you will always encourage your kid to achieve 95 marks next time. In the same way, we have set our 400 seats target, PM Modi explained in an exclusive interview with India TV.

He also connected the BJP's target of 370 seats with the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. He mentioned that the idea came from a creative individual from Kashmir and that the number 370 symbolises national unity.

The BJP should win 370 seats to leave an indelible memory in the minds of people so that they understand the significance of the country's unity, said Modi.

370 not a random number In a separate interview, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that the BJP's target of winning at least 370 seats is not a random number. He spoke about the saffron party's aim to achieve its goal of securing a third term.

You have said that the 370 target is a slogan. I don't think PM Modi has ever mentioned a number randomly. We will hold our position in some states, while in others, we will increase our seats. We do analysis at the booth level and move upwards," the minister told NDTV.

The ruling party, along with its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners, is targeting more than 400 seats out of the 543-member Lok Sabha. Achieving this goal would mark the party's third consecutive single-party majority and secure Narendra Modi's third term.
The Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a show cause notice to JD(S) Karnataka MP Prajwal Revanna, said reports.

Prajwal Revanna is facing a probe in connection with a sexual harassment case.

MEA is processing the Karnataka government's request to cancel Prajwal's diplomatic passport, reported PTI quoting officials.

The JD(S) Hassan MP fled to Germany on April 27, soon after the Karnataka government formed a Special Investigative Team (SIT) to probe the allegations.

Meanwhile, speaking to ANI, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar disclosed that the MEA received a request only on May 21 to impound the passport of Janata Dal Secular MP Prajwal Revanna.

"To impound a passport is governed by an act called the Passport Act. We need a judicial court or a police request to do so. The MEA got this request from Karnataka only on May 21," Jaishankar said.

If the passport is cancelled, then Prajwal's stay abroad will be illegal and he may face legal action by concerned authorities in the country he is staying, PTI reported quoting a person familiar with the matter.

On May 23, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to cancel the diplomatic passport of Prajwal.

On Thursday, JDS supremo and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda issued a stern warning to his grandson Revanna to return to India and face the law in the obscene video case.

In a letter posted on X, the former PM says he is not aware of where his grandson is but has warned him to return home and face the law.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has claimed that Janata Dal(S) patriarch and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda helped Prajwal Revanna to leave the country amid sexual abuse allegations against him.

Prajwal Revanna left the country on April 27 and fled to Germany, soon after the Karnataka government formed a special investigation team to probe allegations against him.

The 33-year-old grandson of former PM is the NDA's candidate from Hassan Lok Sabha seat.

According to me it was he (Deve Gowda) who sent him away, all this is for public consumption," reported Indian Express quoting Karnataka CM.

Siddaramaiah also questioned if Prajwal Revanna left the country without the knowledge of his family. "Did he leave without telling anyone?

The Chief Minister's claim comes amid H D Deve Gowda's letter to Prajwal to return to country and not to test his patience any further.

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah also said that H D Kumaraswamy is trying to dilute the rape and sexual offence charges against his nephew and Hassan MP Prajwal by "talking gibberish" against Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and others.

We have got all confidence in the SIT. The SIT is formed for a dedicated investigation into the case, reported PTI quoting Siddaramaiah on Kumaraswamys apprehension that this case will not reach its logical end.

In another development, the Ministry of External Affairs has issued a show cause notice to Prajwal, and it is processing the Karnataka government's request to cancel Prajwal's diplomatic passport.

Following a request by the SIT, a 'Blue Corner Notice' seeking information on Revanna's whereabouts has already been issued by the Interpol.
The police custody of Pune Porsche crash accused ends today, May 25, Friday. The three accused  Naman Pralhad Bhutda, the owner of Cosie restaurant, its manager Sachin Katkar, and the manager of Blak Club Hotel Sandip Sangle  were remanded on Tuesday in the car accident case allegedly involving a 17-year-boy that claimed the lives of two persons.

Police on Thursday questioned the teen's grandfather and friend regarding the horrific car hit-and-run incident. They also carried out a forensic examination of the car to collect evidence. Currently, the cops are trying to get CCTV footage of the entire route taken by the Porsche car  from the juvenile's house to restaurant to club to accident spot.

Effort was made to change the driver during that period...We are investigating this also...It is true that at the start the driver had said that he was driving the car...We are investigating this part also under whose pressure the driver made that statement we are investigating it, said Pune CP Amitesh Kumar.

Pune Porsche crash case: What we know so far? 1) The Mumbai Crime Branch is probing the hit-and-run case which took place on May 19. The minor ploughed his swanky race car into the two IT professionals on a bike, killing them on the spot. The crime branch on Thursday summoned the accused's grandfather, driver, and friend to piece together the sequence of events on the night before the hit-and-run incident, ANI reported.

2) Police informed that the juvenile had allegedly drunk alcohol at separate establishments  Cosie Bar and Blak Bar. After this, he sped through a narrow road in Maharashtra's Pune, killing two bike riders during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday.

3) The juvenile was granted bail, with his grandfather serving as the guarantor. The Juvenile Justice Board mandated that the accused teen write a 300-word essay and perform 15 days of community service as punishment. Interestingly, the grandfather had been charge-sheeted by the CBI for allegedly hiring Chhota Rajan to kill Shiv Sena leader Ajay Bhosale in 2009.

4) Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said that the Juvenile Justice Board has yet to receive an order requiring Maharashtra Police to treat the accused teen as an adult. Advocate Prashant Patil, who represented the juvenile at the JJB hearing, said that treating a juvenile as an adult accused can take at least two months, as reports of psychiatrists and counsellors, among others, are required. Then, the JJB makes its decision.

5) The sessions court on Wednesday ordered Vishal Agarwal (50), the father of the minor, along with two employees of Hotel Blak Club, Nitesh Shevani and Jayesh Gavkar, to be held in police custody until May 24.

6) Police revealed that the boy, with two of his friends in the luxury car, spent around 48,000 at a pub hours before the accident, NDTV reported.

7) As per India Today reports, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has refuted claims that the 17-year-old boy involved in the Porsche accident was provided with "pizzas and burgers" while in custody after the incident on May 19.

8) Police have also filed an FIR against a minor under various sections of the IPC and the Motor Vehicles Act following an incident on Sunday. Additionally, the teen's father has also been charged under sections 75 and 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act for allowing his son to drive without a license and for endangering his life by providing access to alcohol.

9) The cops have also started legal action against the owner and employees of the two bars where the minor reportedly consumed alcohol before the accident. They are accused of serving alcohol to an underage person, contributing to the circumstances leading to the incident.

10) The two young IT professionals from Madhya Pradesh were identified as Ashwini Koshta and Aneesh Awadhia.
The Pune Police informed on Friday that two police officials were suspended in connection with the accident that allegedly involved a minor. Police Inspector (PI) Rahul Jagdale and Assistant Police Inspector (API), Vishwanath Todkari, posted at Yerwada police station, have been suspended as they did not inform the wireless control room about the accident, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said.

The Pune Police also confirmed that an effort was made to frame a family driver in the case wherein a teen was accused of drinking and ramming a Porsche car into a bike in Pune last week. Two IT professionals were killed in the incident that took place in the Kalyani Nagar area at around 3 am on Sunday, May 19.

Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Friday said that attempts were made to project that the 17-year-old minor was not behind the wheel, but that an adult (the family driver) was driving the car at the time of the accident.

"We are investigating these things and will take action against those who made such attempts, under section 201 (destruction of evidence) of the IPC," Kumar was quoted by news agency PTI as saying.

"It is true that at the start the driver had said that he was driving the car...We are investigating this part also under whose pressure the driver made that statement, we are investigating it," the Pune Commissioner of Police said.

What we know so far:

1. Lapses: The Pune Police chief said an internal inquiry has pointed to lapses on the part of some cops while registering the case, and action will be taken against them.

2. 'Minor was driving the car': The police said they are investigating and collecting evidence to support the argument that the accused teen was driving the car.

"During our investigation, it clearly emerged that the juvenile was driving the car, and we have already collected all the necessary chronological evidence. For example, when the juvenile left the house, the entry on the security register shows that he left the house with the car," he said.

The police chief said technical and CCTV evidence confirmed that the juvenile drove the car. Eyewitnesses also corroborated that the teenager was behind the wheel during the accident.

3. Accused was in senses: The Pune Commissioner assured that the accused minor was in his "senses" at the time of the accident. He said the juvenile was fully aware that driving in an inebriated condition would lead to this kind of offence and peoples lives would be lost.

"He [the minor accused] was in his senses. It was not as if all of them were so drunk that they could not understand anything. They had full knowledge that due to their conduct, an incident like section 304 could happen," police said.

4. Blood report not the only basis; police have 'CCTV footage of the accused drinking liquor in the pub': The police asserted that they had accessed CCTV footage of the accused drinking liquor in the pub before the accident.

"We have the CCTV footage of him drinking liquor in the pub...The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report, we have other evidence also," the official said.

On the blood report of the accused, the police said, "We have not received the blood report yet. The blood report was taken at the very first and sent to forensics...We have requested the forensics to take a DNA sample of both the samples," Kumar said.

The official also said that there was no truth in the allegations of the accused being given preferential treatment. He promised to take action against police personnel for any negligence.

6. Watertight case: The police said they were making a "watertight" case to present before the court and that efforts were on to try the minor accused as an adult.

"We are making a watertight case. The allegations of any preferential treatment given to the Minor are being investigated by an ACP rank officer...The victim will get justice, and the accused will be punished," Amitesh Kumar was quoted by ANI.

"We have started the process of appointing a special counsel in the case so that our side should be kept strongly in the case in court. Police are on the stringent way to handle this case," Kumar added.

What's the case so far? A bike rider and a pillion passenger were killed when a speeding Porsche car hit them from behind in the Kalyani Nagar area of Pune City. An FIR was registered in the case. Two young IT professionals from Madhya Pradesh, identified as Ashwini Koshta and Aneesh Awadhia, were killed in the accident on the night of May 19.

The Porsche was allegedly driven by the 17-year-old, who the police claim was drunk at the time. He is the son of a real estate developer.

The teenager was then produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, which granted him bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay.

Following an outcry over quick bail and the police's review plea, the Juvenile Justice Board later remanded the teen to the observation home till June 5. The police have also arrested the teenager's father.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday issued a red alert for a heatwave in several northern and northwestern states, including Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana, until May 28.

The weather agency has also issued an orange alert for very heavy rainfall in three districts of Kerala. The southern state, reeling under the impact of heavy pre-monsoon rains, has received over 200 mm of rain in the last 24 hours.

The orange alert, denoting very heavy rainfall of 11 cm to 20 cm, has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts.

IMD forecast for heatwave The Met department has issued a red alert for severe heatwave conditions in Delhi, most parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh until May 28.

A red alert for severe heatwave was also issued for west Uttar Pradesh from May 26 to May 28.

Isolated pockets of west Madhya Pradesh are likely to witness a severe heatwave until May 26.

The IMD's heatwave prediction for the national capital on May 25 coincides with Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha elections, during which all seven parliamentary seats of Delhi go to vote. Delhi is expected to experience a maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius on Saturday.

Also read: Delhi Lok Sabha Elections: From bus, metro, traffic advisory to liquor stores; know what's open, what's closed on May 25 Authorities reported five deaths due to suspected heat stroke in Rajasthan on Thursday. An official told news agency PTI that five peacocks were also found dead in Khairthal district.

IMD scientist Naresh Kumar told PTI that they have issued a red alert in Rajasthan and Haryana and an orange alert in Punjab.

The temperature has slightly reduced in the last two days in NCR-Delhi. However, we predict that the temperature will still be around 43 to 44 degrees Celsius. People should take precautions for this, he said.

IMD forecast for rain The weather department said that a cyclonic circulation over south Kerala would likely cause isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall over Kerala and Mahe on May 24. IMD has issued an orange alert for these areas.

Heavy rains have continued to lash several parts of Kerala, leading to waterlogging in the low-lying areas of major cities, including Thrissur. Vehicles were also reportedly damaged after a tree was uprooted in the Saint Thomas Road area of Thrissur.

Revenue Minister K Rajan said that parts of Kerala received over 20 cm of rain in the last 24 hours. He also mentioned that 11 people lost their lives in the state due to recent rain-related incidents.

Six lost their lives in various drowning incidents, two fell into water-filled quarries, two were struck by lightning, and one person lost his life in a wall collapse, he said.

Kerala will also likely witness rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph over the next two days.

Lakshadweep, Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Rayalaseema, and Telangana are also likely to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

Also read: IMD warns of heatwave in Delhi, 3 more states; Kerala on red alert for heavy showers The weather agency has also forecast light to moderate rainfall over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the next seven days, with isolated heavy rainfall very likely from May 23 to May 25.

IMD has predicted isolated light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds over Konkan, Goa, and Vidarbha from May 24 to May 26.
Telangana authorities found expired stocks of Urad dal and some dairy items on the premises of the popular Rameshwaram Cafe in Hyderabad. The restaurant later issued a clarification saying that the expired goods were meant to be discarded and not consumed.

The Hyderabad restaurant is a branch of Bengaluru's iconic Rameshwaram Cafe, which witnessed a low-intensity bomb earlier this year, leaving 10 people injured.

Also read: Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast case: NIA probe suggests Pakistan connection; here's all you need to know The Food Safety Commissioner of Telangana in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday night shared the exact quantities of the expired items and their worth in rupees.

Task force team has conducted inspections in the Madhapur area on 23.05.2024. The Rameshwaram Cafe Urad Dal (100Kg) stock found expired in Mar'24 worth 16K. Nandini Curd (10kg), Milk (8L) worth 700 found expired. Above items discarded on the spot, the post read.

Also read: Mumbai restaurant issues clarification after employee seen cleaning drain with food frying net Rameshwaram Cafe then issued a statement on Friday saying that the management has taken note of the observations made by the authorities for its Hyderabad outlet and is already looking into the matter. An internal inquiry has been ordered to verify the facts and take stock of each outlet.

"The stocks found were sealed and unattended, meant for dispatch and not for consumption," the statement issued by the founders of The Rameshwaram Cafe, Divya Raghavendra Rao and Raghavendra Rao, said.

Also read: Delhi polls: Going to vote for Lok Sabha elections 2024 tomorrow? Celebrate with discounted feasts at THESE restaurants The Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) chain further said it also ordered hygiene and standard checks for all its outlets across the states and wanted to convey its strong commitment towards providing consumers with the best in the category.

Assuring cooperation with the authorities, the statement said the restaurant has not received any show cause notice from the officials concerned.

The management said it is fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of servicing, hygiene and safety and welfare of the consumers.
Top Events on May 24: India is all set to witness various political, legal, sports, and entertainment events including PM Modi's elections rallies in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, Mayawati's poll campaign in Punjab, voter numbers case hearing in Supreme Court, Pune Porsche crash case, cyclone Remal alert, and others today, Friday. Take a look at the top events of the day below,

- Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address Lok Sabha election rallies in Punjab's Gurdaspur and Jalandhar constituencies today. After Punjab, he will also visit Himachal Pradesh to hold public meetings in Nahan and Mandi Lok Sabha seats on May 24.

- Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati will visit Punjab on Friday to campaign for the Lok Sabha elections.

- Since the Election Commission of India (ECI) has yet to release the actual voter numbers for the Lok Sabha elections held in the five phases, the Supreme Court of India will address the matter on May 24.

- The police custody of Shakil Sattat Shaikh will end on May 24, he allegedly 'used a cellphone activated in Pakistan in connection with threats to Hindu Sanatan Sanstha leader Updesh Rana in Surat.

- The police custody of three accused  Naman Bhutada, the owner of Cosie pub, Sachin Kaatkar, a staffer at Cosie pub, and Sandip Sangle, an assistant restaurant manager at Blak Marriott  in the Pune Porsche crash case will end today.

- The Mumbai Sessions court is likely to pronounce the judgment on the quantum of punishment in the murder of actor Laila Khan and her family on May 24.

- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded cyclone 'Remal' alert amid predictions of depression formation over the Bay of Bengal by May 24.

- Miniratna PSU Hindustan Copper Ltd will likely meet on May 24 to discuss dividends, fundraising, and results.

- Tata Group FMCG stock to hit ex-dividend on May 24.

- SBI Life Insurance Deputy CEO Veeraraghavan Srinivasan to step down from his position today.

- Vistara has cut 10 per cent of its flights until May 24 to stabilise operations in India.

- IPL 2024: Rajasthan Royals (RR) will move to Qualifier 2 on May 24, where they will face Sunrisers Hyderabad at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Tamil Nadu.

- YouTuber 'Savukku' Shankar was remanded to judicial custody for forgery and cheating till May 24 in Tamil Nadu.
A day after the Bengaluru Police busted a rave party where at least 86 of the 103 attendees tested positive for drugs, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday hit out at the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka for the alleged "deteriorating law and order situation" in the state. The saffron party termed the Silicon City "Udta Bengaluru" and alleged that the city is becoming the "adda" for narcotic substances and rave parties.
The West Bengal CID on Thursday evening detained one person for his alleged involvement in the murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar, reported news agency PTI. The detainee is a resident of an area in West Bengal close to the international border with Bangladesh.

Authorities revealed that the detained individual had met one of the main suspects in the murder case, prompting further investigation aims to uncover the purpose and context of their meeting.

In a new development in the case, the police now suspect that the Bangladesh MP could have been lured into a New Town flat by a woman before being murdered by contract killers.

Also Read: Cyclone Remal update: West Bengal, Bangladesh on alert as severe cyclone to hit on May 26; heavy rains predicted Here are the details revealed by the police on the case The police, speaking on the case, said, Investigation indicated that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap laid by a woman who was also close to the victim's friend. It seems that Anar was lured into the New Town flat by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat," quoted PTI.

The senior police officer added that CCTV footage, which showed Anar entering the flat with a man and a woman, is now being examined by the CID.

The officer said, In the CCTV footage, the politician was seen entering the flat with the two persons. The duo was later seen coming out and again re-entering the flat the next day, but the MP was not seen again.

Also Read: Bangladeshi MP murder case: Forensic team probes Anwarul Azim's death | 6 updates The police, calling it a well-planned murder, said, A huge amount of money, around 5 crore, was paid by an old friend of the MP to the contract killers to execute the crime.

During the investigation, CID found blood stains inside the New Town flat and also recovered several plastic bags, which they believe were used to dump the body parts.

Circumstantial evidence indicated that the MP was first strangulated, and then his body was cut into several pieces, police claimed.

We suspect that after killing Anar, the murderers mutilated the body, segregated the flesh from the bones and mixed those with turmeric powder to delay decomposition, said the senior police officer.

Then the body parts were probably put inside plastic bags as well as in the trolley bag and scattered at different locations. We also suspect that some parts were kept in a refrigerator, and we have collected samples, said the officer, adding that a search for the body parts was underway.

Messages were also sent from his mobile phone to a few of his contacts, asking them not to contact him as he was travelling to Delhi.

It seems these messages were sent from the MP's mobile phone to confuse his family members and friends and prevent them from launching a search for him... there is a possibility that these messages were sent after his murder, he said.

Details on the missing complaint filed The Bangladesh MP had reportedly arrived in Kolkata on May 12 to undergo medical treatment. The search for him began after Gopal Biswas, his acquaintance, a resident of Baranagar in north Kolkata, filed a complaint with the local police on May 18.

Anar was staying at Biswas's house. According to Biswas's complaint, Anar left the Baranagar residence for a doctor's appointment on the afternoon of May 13, saying he would return for dinner. However, the MP became unreachable, and on May 17, Biswas filed a missing person report the following day.

Anwarul Azim Anar was a lawmaker from the ruling party Awami League and represented the Jhenaidah-4 constituency in Bangladesh. Earlier, on Wednesday, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said that authorities found the MP who went missing in Kolkata on May 13 murdered, and they have arrested three Bangladeshis in connection with his murder.
NEW DELHI : Broken and deformed spectacles? Fancy frames itching your skin? Fret not - Stringent standards to manufacture eyewear are on way, aiming to enhance consumer safety and eye health.

The new standards, on par with international guidelines, will include strict test methods to make unglazed spectacle frames, two people aware of the matter said. Frames must withstand deformation and lens dislodgement under specified test conditions, ensuring mechanical stability in daily use. They must be resistant to perspiration, show no spotting, colour change, corrosion, or surface degradation after exposure.

The distance between the tips of the sides must remain within specified limits even when tested with fitted lenses, the people cited above said on condition of anonymity. Manufacturers must also minimize the risk of harmful substances leaking from the frame.

Also Read: Govt revisiting the standards for medical devices considering evolving technology in medical sciences

Frames must retain dimensions even at elevated temperatures. They should also be designed or treated in a way that prevents them from catching fire easily and, if they do ignite, the fire should not sustain itself once the initial flame or source of ignition is taken away.

One of the critical aspects of the new standards is the regulation of nickel release from metal parts of the frame. Parts that come into direct and prolonged contact with the skin must not release more than 0.5 micrograms per square centimetre per week of nickel," one of the two people cited above said. It is crucial in preventing allergic reactions and ensuring the long-term comfort of the wearer as excessive nickel release can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. By limiting nickel release, the standards aim to protect consumers from potential health issues and ensure safer, more comfortable eyewear," the person said.

Reliable eyewear

By ensuring higher quality and durability, the measures aim to provide consumers with safer and more reliable eyewear options. The standards, expected by the end of the month, will be introduced by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which reports to the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Queries emailed to spokespersons of the consumer affairs ministry and the BIS remained unanswered till press time.

Frames made from new materials must undergo a clinical evaluation in accordance with appropriate international standards. This ensures that any new material introduced in the market does not pose unforeseen risks to consumers," the second person said.

"This kind of initiative by the government is truly commendable. With the rapid growth of optical shops everywhere, there is a shortage of trained personnel to prescribe glasses. The drawbacks of prescribing non-compliant glasses cannot be overlooked, especially in children, as they can lead to a condition called 'amblyopia,'" said Dr. Rituraj Baruah, principal consultant, ophthalmology at Max Healthcare.

Eyewear trade

In the context of India's trade, the introduction of these standards is timely. According to commerce ministry data, Indias trade in ophthalmic goods has soared in the recent past. Exports of ophthalmic goods from India rose a steep 80.3% from $181.5 million in FY22 to $327.2 million in FY24. Major export destinations for ophthalmic goods include France, Germany, Oman, UK, USA, Canada, UAE, China, Poland and Russia.

"This surge underscores Indias rising capabilities in manufacturing high-quality ophthalmic products that meet global standards. The increase reflects not only the advancements in technology and innovation within the sector but also a growing recognition of Indian products in the international market," said Ajay Srivastava, the founder of Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). GTRI is an independent and non-profit organization focused on conducting research and analysis on global trade policies and practices.

Also Read: Govt plans new quality control orders to enhance safety standards for textiles used in construction work

Ophthalmic goods imports have also seen substantial growth, up from $306.1 million in FY22 to $561.7 million in FY24, up 83.5%. This significant rise in imports highlights a burgeoning domestic market demand for advanced ophthalmic goods.

These comprehensive new standards introduced by the BIS reflect a significant commitment to consumer safety and eye health. By ensuring that spectacle frames are constructed to meet rigorous safety, durability, and performance criteria, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs is taking a proactive approach to protect consumers and improve the quality of eyewear available in the market, said Ashim Sanyal, chief operating officer and secretary of Consumer VOICE -- it is a non-profit organization that focuses on consumer rights and advocacy.
(Bloomberg) -- Rite Aid Corp.s legal team sought to reassure creditors that the bankrupt pharmacy chain will survive Chapter 11, saying the company is still working with banks and a key bondholder group on a rescue deal that has taken longer than expected to finalize.

A bondholder group slated to take the keys to the company is expected to inject new cash into the business while banks have agreed in principle to economic terms for exit financing, Rite Aid lawyer Aparna Yenamandra said Friday during a hearing in New Jersey. Advisers are working to marry the two funding sources, a process thats taken longer than any of us would have liked, she said.

Other hurdles to the restructuring remain, including creditor concerns over Rite Aid Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Steins compensation, Yenamandra said.

Stein, who was appointed chief executive officer the day Rite Aid filed bankruptcy, is due to be paid $20 million when the pharmacy restructures, which committees representing opioid victims and other creditors have criticized.

Last month, Rite Aid delayed a court hearing where a New Jersey bankruptcy judge was scheduled to consider approving its reorganization plan. Some company creditors have also asked Rite Aid advisers to cut their professional fees amid mounting liquidity concerns, Bloomberg reported Tuesday.

Terms for Rite Aids bankruptcy exit still need to be finalized, Yenamandra said, adding that there are also outstanding objections to the Chapter 11 plan that will either need to be settled by Rite Aid or adjudicated by Judge Michael Kaplan. Rite Aid is now targeting a confirmation hearing in the next 3 to 4 weeks, she said.

Chris Hopkins, a lawyer representing a key bondholder group, said his clients and the company are marching toward a deal, though material issues remain. Bondholders are focused on ensuring Rite Aid successfully restructures and leaves bankruptcy as a viable business, Hopkins said.

The case is Rite Aid Corp., 23-18993, US Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
(Updates sourcing, adds context)

By Andres Gonzalez and Pietro Lombardi

LONDON/MADRID, May 24 (Reuters) - State-controlled oil company Saudi Aramco is interested in buying a minority stake in the renewable unit of Spanish oil company Repsol, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The Spanish company has opened its renewable projects to investors willing to take minority stakes in portfolios of wind farms and solar plants to help fund its diversification into renewables and low carbon businesses, away from its traditional oil and gas business.

Repsol Renewables is valued at 5.9 billion euros ($6.40 billion), including debt, according to a research note published by UBS in April.

Spanish newspaper Expansion reported earlier on Friday that Aramco had approached Repsol.

Saudi Aramco has approached Repsol as it is mostly interested in the Spanish company's renewable assets in the U.S. The Saudi giant had not filed a formal offer yet, Expansion said.

Repsol has started talks to sell a stake in its renewable energy business after receiving an unsolicited approach by an investor and has lined up Santander as advisor for the sale, four sources told Reuters earlier this month.

Two years ago, Repsol sold a 25% in the business to a unit of French bank Credit Agricole and Swiss asset manager Energy Infrastructure Partners for 905 million euros ($978.31 million).
Following a turbulence incident that killed one passenger and injured several others, Singapore Airlines has tweaked its in-flight safety protocols and flight routes, newswire Reuters reported on Friday.

In a statement to Singapore broadcaster Channel News Asia, the airline said it will now refrain from serving hot drinks or meals when the seatbelt sign is on.

The SQ321 London-Singapore flight on a Boeing 777-300ER plane carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew diverted to Bangkok for an emergency landing on Tuesday after the plane was buffeted by turbulence that flung passengers and crew around the cabin, slamming some into the ceiling, the Reuters report added.

Flight SQ321 has since modified its route, avoiding the area of turbulence encountered during the incident.

Here are the top eight updates from the Singapore Airlines turbulence incident:
Top news of the day: On 24 May, a series of events are set to take place right from politics to business. Flipkart said that it will be adding internet major Google as a minority investor. Hindalco reported a 32% year-on-year jump in its consolidated net profit to 3,174 crore for the quarter ended March. The Pune Police confirmed that an effort was made to frame a family driver in the case.

Google to buy minority stake in Flipkart in fresh funding round E-commerce giant Flipkart on Friday said that it will be adding internet major Google as a minority investor. As part of the latest funding round led by Walmart, Flipkart today announced that it will be adding Google as a minority investor, subject to receipt of regulatory and other customary approvals by both parties." Read more

Dombivali boiler blast case: Malti Pradeep Mehta, one of company owners, detained from Nashik The Thane Police on Friday detained Malti Pradeep Mehta, one of the owners of Amudan Chemicals Private Limited, from Nashik in connection with the Dombivali boiler blast case that claimed 11 lives on Thursday in Maharashtra. She was absconding after the incident. Read more

India's crude oil imports soar 7% YoY in April, net oil & gas import bill hits $12.3 billion-mark: PPAC

India's crude oil imports increased by seven per cent year-on-year (YoY) in April 2024 and the net import bill for oil and gas hit $12.3 billion, compared to $10.1 billion in the corresponding period last year. Out of this, crude oil imports constituted $13.0 billion, liquified natural gas (LNG) imports were at $1.1 billion and exports were $ 3.7 billion during April 2024. Read more

Prajwal Revanna Sex Abuse Case: MEA issues show cause notice to JD(S) MP, say reports The Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a show cause notice to JD(S) Karnataka MP Prajwal Revanna, said reports. Prajwal Revanna is facing a probe in connection with a sexual harassment case. Read more

Hindalco posts 32% jump in Q4 profit on strong margin, volumes Hindalco Industries, the flagship company of the Aditya Birla group, on Friday reported a 32% year-on-year jump in its consolidated net profit to 3,174 crore for the quarter ended March driven by strong margins and volumes across aluminium and copper businesses. Read more

Cyclone Remal Warning! From landfall timings, states on rainfall alert, possible impact to IMD advisory  FAQ Cyclone Remal is likely to make landfall and cross between Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts around May 26. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Friday that the "Depression" over Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by May 25 morning in the east-central region of Bay of Bengal. Read more

S&P BSE to include Adani Ports in Sensex index from June 24; Wipro to be dropped

The S&P BSE announced on Friday, May 24, that it will include Adani Ports and Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in the Sensex index from June 24, 2024. The domestic benchmark will drop Wipro from the index on the same day. The BSE, in its semi-annual rebalancing exercise, included the country's largest private port operator, making it the first Adani Group company to join the Sensex. Read more

Pune Porsche Crash: Police reveal 'efforts to frame driver, lapses by some cops'  what we know so far The Pune Police on Friday confirmed that an effort was made to frame a family driver in the case wherein a teen was accused of drinking and ramming a Porsche car into a bike in Pune last week. Two IT professionals were killed in the incident that took place in the Kalyani Nagar area at around 3 am on Sunday, May 19. Read more
Actor Rajinikanth on Thursday visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dabhi.

The visit comes after he received a Golden Visa for the UAE.

The official X handle of BAPS Hindu Mandir posted a video of Rajinikanth's visit to the temple.

In a video, the actor was seen taking an interactive tour of the temple campus and seeking blessing.

Rajinikanth visits Abu Dhabi's BAPS Hindu Mandir. Photo: Twitter

Rajinikanth seeking blessings at Abu Dhabi's BAPS Hindu Mandir. Photo: Twitter

The actor has expressed his gratitude to the Abu Dhabi government and his friend, MA Yusuff Ali, chairman and managing director of Lulu Group, for their support in securing the visa, reported ANI.

"I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious UAE Golden visa from Abu Dhabi Govt...," he said in one of the viral videos.

Recently, the actor completed shooting of 'Vettaiyan' movie, which also stars Amitabh Bachchan.

On April 8, 2024, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir.

On May 1, expelled Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the construction of the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi was "nothing less than a miracle".

"I am in Abu Dhabi right now and will head to Dubai from here. I had a darshan at the (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, which was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi in February, today. This is no less than a miracle," reported ANI quoting Acharya.
Hajj 2024: Saudi Arabia's government banned visit visa holders and tourists from performing the Hajj pilgrimage and entering Makkah from May 23 to June 21. To be allowed to perform the pilgrimage, a person must get a Saudi Hajj visa or obtain a Hajj permit.

"Visit visas of all types and names do not entitle their holder to perform Hajj, and instructions require obtaining a permit for that," Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior informed in a post on X.

This means visit visas do not grant permission to perform Hajj. "Temporary visas, such as student visas or Schengen visas, are not accepted," informed the website of Nusuk Hajj, a platform overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

"Visitors have been urged not to visit the city during this period [from Thursday, May 23 to Friday, June 21] or stay there without a Hajj permit during this time. Those who violate this will have strict action taken against them," the Khaleej Times reported.

Only a Hajj permit allows a person to perform the Hajj in the Holy City of Makkah. During this time, any other form of visit visa is not considered a permit.

Earlier, pilgrims were also advised to always carry their identification cards throughout the 'Hajj period'.

ALSO READ: SpiceJet secures Haj flight rights from these seven Indian cities

What if the rule is violated? Saudi Arabia warned that defying Hajj regulations will result in severe and unwavering penalties.

"A fine of SR10,000 ($2,666) will be imposed on individuals caught in Makkah and the holy sites without a Haj permit, applicable to citizens, residents, and visitors," the ministry said in a statement posted on X earlier this week.
Spanish driller Repsol SA obtained a license from the US on Wednesday to keep operating in Venezuela after May 31, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

Oil firms that want to stay in Venezuela have been applying for permits from US Treasury after Washington reimposed sanctions last month.

Repsol recently signed a deal with state-owned Petroleos de Venezuela SA that adds jointly managed fields to its operations. In the next few months the assets are expected to produce 20,000 barrels a day, doubling what the European major currently produces in one of its three ventures, Chief Executive Officer Josu Jon Imaz said in a call with investors in April.

A press official for US Treasury declined to comment.

The US is trying to use sanctions as leverage to ensure fairer presidential elections in July. Last year, Washington temporarily removed restrictions on Venezuelas gold and oil sectors after the government of President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition signed a deal in Barbados on electoral guarantees.

After decades of mismanagement in its state-owned companies, ultimately hit by US sanctions, Maduros government has given oil majors more operational control in their local joint ventures. Repsol currently has three joint ventures with PDVSA, one of them alongside Italys Eni SpA.

The Spanish driller has also been among the foreign oil companies delivering a string of fuel and refined products to PDVSA, helping ease years of painful gasoline shortages.

With assistance from Fabiola Zerpa.
Vladmir Putin appears far stronger now than he did at any other time since Russia launched a full-scale invasion into Ukrainian territory in February 2022.

On the ground Russian troops are pushing hard into Ukrainian territory and have captured several villages in the past two weeks alone. Plenty of other indicators, too, show Russias growing strength and suggest a future in which a Ukrainian, and western, defeat is becoming a more realistic possibility.

On the domestic front, over the past year, Putin has faced down a mutiny by his erstwhile ally Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was subsequently killed in a plane crash. His only other major opponent, Alexei Navalny, perished in a penal colony in Russias far north earlier this year.

Also read: Russias President Vladimir Putin reaches China to strengthen partnership; to meet Xi Jinping today After being re-elected to yet another term as Russian president, Putin has also consolidated his alliances with Iran and North Korea, which supply Moscow with much-needed military equipment. This may not be the company of choice for a self-declared great power, but it keeps the Russian war machine well-oiled  in sharp contrast to the problems that Ukraine has faced over the past six months with western military aid.

At the same time, President Xi Jinping of China has reassured Putin of his continuing support during a high-profile state visit on May 16-17 2024. The seemingly strong bond between Moscow and Beijing, and between Xi and Putin personally, also appears to be more sustainable than the relationships that Kyiv has with western capitals. Within the EU, Slovakia and Hungary have repeatedly set out their opposition to continued western support for Ukraine.

Russias offensive in the Kharkiv region, which began on May 10 2024, has enabled Moscow to capture several villages and drive some 10 kilometres deep into Ukraine. More than 10,000 people have been displaced amid constant Russian bombing and infantry assaults, adding pressure on already stretched humanitarian aid operations in the area and the city of Kharkiv in particular, which already hosts 200,000 displaced people.

Russian successes around Kharkiv come in the wake of territorial gains elsewhere along the 1,000km-long frontline over the past several months. While not a game changer in the Kremlins war of aggression against Ukraine, Moscow appears to have significant momentum behind its ground operations as Kyiv struggles to hold off Russian troops.

Also read: Russia's Vladimir Putin meets 'old friend' Xi Jinping of China. What happened next? Deals, concert and tea ceremony Russian advances this year have all but wiped out the Ukrainian gains from last years counter offensive. While Russia has only captured one major town  Avdiivka  since it took Bakhmut a year ago, it has captured some 500 square kilometres of Ukrainian territory over recent months.

As the Kremlin keeps up the pressure, Ukraine continues to suffer from shortages of weapons and ammunition even as more US supplies are finally beginning to reach the frontlines.

Future western support for Ukraine is far less certain than it seemed a year ago. Consequently, future-proofing aid for Ukraine is high on the agenda for Kyivs allies, especially with an eye to upcoming presidential and congressional elections in the US, where Trump and his supporters have suggested cutting off aid to Ukraine. President Joe Biden remains staunchly committed to Kyiv for now, but it is far from certain that he will win a second term in November this year.

Also read: New Russian Defense Minister Is Devoted to Putin and State Power Western wavering The EU has managed to agree on a deal on how to use the profits from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. By contrast, G7 countries struggle to agree on how to finance ongoing support for Ukraine, especially over the use of frozen Russian assets in the west.

What appears as Russias strength is, in part at least, Ukraines and the wests weakness. While Russia has mercilessly struck targets across Ukraine for more than two years now, Kyiv has been constrained by the types of weapons and munitions supplied by the west and by the rules of engagement attached to these deliveries, such as where they can be used. This may slowly be changing with more arms deliveries now reaching Ukraine with fewer strings attached to how Kyiv can use them.

The Kremlin has had no qualms in using convicts at the front and mobilising large numbers of young Russians for its war effort. Or in sacrificing their lives in holding off Ukraines counter-offensive last year and achieving its own territorial gains this year.

By contrast, Ukraine only updated its mobilisation laws in April, lowering the age of conscription from 27 to 25 years. This has yet to translate into tangible gains on the battlefield in the form of fresh, well-trained and equipped troops.

Putin makes his own decisions, almost completely unconstrained within his political regime. Buoyed by the resources that Russia can muster domestically and source from his allies, he has been able to recover from strategic and tactical mistakes.

What passes for strategy in the west is often no more than the best deal that can be agreed among 32 Nato and 27 EU members who all push and pull in different directions. The resulting permanent crisis management has, so far, prevented a defeat of Ukraine. But it has not, and will not, pave a way to victory.

Putins strength is relative, rather than absolute. And therein lie both a danger and an opportunity for Ukraine and the west.
An old axiom of British politics is that the Conservative Party is ruthless in its pursuit of power. Lately it has seemed relentlessly focused on losing it. It has purged talented MPs who did not toe the ideological line on Brexit, a cause that a majority of voters now think was wrong. In Boris Johnson, it picked a leader manifestly unsuited for high office. In Liz Truss, it installed the shortest-lived prime minister in British history and the person who shredded the partys reputation for economic competence. Now, after taking a long, hard look into the electoral abyss, it has gone ahead and jumped.

On May 22nd Rishi Sunak, the current prime minister, announced that the next general election will be held on July 4th. Mr Sunak could have waited until the end of the year to call a vote. Given the enormous poll lead enjoyed by the Labour Party, the hope that things might somehow improve seemed to most observers like the Conservatives only reasonable strategy. Our prediction model currently gives them a chance of less than 1% of winning the election. Instead, Mr Sunak has opted to try his luck.

View Full Image (The Economist)

Whether this decision is an act of political genius or lunacyand The Economists money is on lunacyBritons should welcome it. The approach of the election has distracted the government and distorted politics for months. The prospect of a transfer of power to Labour has excited endless speculation about who might lead the Tories after Mr Sunak, and encouraged would-be contenders in a future party-leadership campaign to hawk ever-more-outlandish ideas. Mr Sunak himself has repeatedly chopped and changed in advance of the election, positioning himself first as an improbable candidate of change and more recently as a figure of continuity.

Electoral considerations have warped the governments priorities. Mr Sunaks greatest energies have gone into an ill-conceived scheme to deport asylum-seekers to Rwanda, a plan that is now unlikely to materialise. Sounding tough on small boats crossing the English Channel might help him ward off the threat on his right flank from Reform UK, an insurgent party that dislikes mass immigration, but it is not the main priority for the country or the electorate. To be fair to Mr Sunak and Jeremy Hunt, the chancellor of the exchequer, they have restored much of the economic credibility lost by Ms Truss and avoided the temptation to dangle egregious sweeteners in front of voters. Even so, an early election does helpfully remove any possibility of a final irresponsible tax-cutting splurge.

It also brings forward the prospect of a period of political stability. The Labour Party is not guaranteed to win the election: the campaign to come will subject its leaders to closer scrutiny than any they have received to date . Big question-marks hover over Labours interventionist instincts and how it might handle the difficult trade-offs that actual power would bring, most obviously over tax and spending. But Britains deep-rooted problemsailing public services, insufficient housing, stagnant productivity and morecannot be solved by a Conservative government that is consumed by factionalism, incapable of building things and dogmatic about issues that might help the economy grow faster, including a closer relationship with the European Union. The Tories could have waited another six months to face the voters. Six weeks is better for Britain.

 2024, The Economist Newspaper Ltd. All rights reserved.

From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
The Palestinian militants who raided Israel in the Hamas attacks on Oct. 7 killed over 1,200 people, according to Israel, and abducted over 240 civilians and soldiers, bringing them back to the Gaza Strip. Israel responded with a military campaign that it said was aimed at destroying Hamas and recovering the hostages . Hamas released dozens of the hostages under a weeklong series of temporary cease-fire agreements that ended on Dec. 1. International efforts to reach a cease-fire and hostage-release deal have continued and repeatedly stalled.

How many hostages does Hamas have?

Over 240 hostages were taken by Hamas and other attackers on Oct. 7. There are 121 hostages abducted that day remaining in Gaza, most of them Israeli, including dual nationals, according to Israel.

Israels count of remaining hostages includes those whom Israel has concluded are no longer alive. Israel says officially that 37 of the remaining hostages abducted on Oct. 7 are dead, but Israeli and American officials estimate privately that the number of dead hostages could be much higher . The Israeli military reported in May the recovery of the bodies of seven hostages, all of whom it said were killed on Oct. 7.

Separately, Israel said Hamas is holding the bodies of two Israeli soldiers killed in the 2014 Gaza war. Two other Israelis were captured by Hamas before Oct. 7, bringing the total number of known Israeli hostages, dead or alive, to 125, according to Israels count.

Hamas, a group that the U.S. designates as a terrorist organization, said in April that it didnt know if it could deliver 40 living civilian captives to satisfy a U.S.-backed cease-fire proposal, according to officials familiar with the negotiations. The number of hostages who are alive and dead has been central to cease-fire proposals, which feature the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

The state wants to know if it is working to bring back bodies or [living] hostages," said Ofer Merin , who is director general at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem and a member of the committee that determines hostage deaths.

In the months since the Hamas attack, Israel has adjusted its estimate of the number of remaining hostages as some were freed, investigators identified victims of the attacks and the Israeli military recovered bodies from Gaza.

Hamas isnt holding all of the hostages who remain in Gaza. Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a Hamas ally that the U.S. has designated a terrorist organization, said in October that it was holding more than 30 people abducted on Oct. 7. Hamas transferred some of its own hostages to other factions, according to Israel, complicating efforts to secure their freedom.

Israeli officials said on Dec. 3 that at least three civilian women and two children were being held by militants outside Hamas, citing their latest intelligence. That group included Israeli-Argentinian citizen Shiri Bibas and her two sons, Ariel, 4, and Kfir, 10 months, who were kidnapped by Hamas and later handed over to another faction.

Hamas has said that Bibas and her sons were dead, but Israel hasnt confirmed that. A hostage reported by Palestinian Islamic Jihad to have died in captivity, Hanna Katzir , was released under the Israel-Hamas cease-fire deal.

When will the hostages be released?

Talks on the release of hostages and a temporary cease-fire have repeatedly stalled. Families of captives have banded together to keep hostage recovery at the top of Israels agenda.

Hamas had released 109 hostages as of the end of November when a cease-fire agreement that included hostage-prisoner exchanges expired. Of those, 105 were returned during the pause in fighting that began on Nov. 24, including 81 Israeli or Israeli dual nationals, 23 citizens of Thailand and one from the Philippines.

The exchanges involved only women and minors. Hamas regards Israeli men of fighting age as soldiers and a more valuable commodity.

In October, Hamas released four civilians, and the Israeli military reported the recovery of a soldier during ground operations in Gaza.

What was the Israel-Hamas hostage deal?

Israel and Hamas began a temporary cease-fire agreement on Nov. 24 under which civilian hostages abducted by Hamas were released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israel . The agreement ended when Israel said Hamas was unable to produce a new list of hostages, prompting Israel to resume its military campaign. Talks to resume the exchanges have since stalled.

Hamas released additional hostages during the cease-fire under separate agreements with other countries.

Under the cease-fire pact, Israel also agreed to allow the delivery of fuel to Gaza from Egypt and to pause drone surveillance in northern Gaza for six hours a day.

During the first phase of the cease-fire, Hamas released 50 civilian hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners over a period of four days, in addition to hostages released under separate agreements. Israel and Hamas extended the agreement for a total of three days, continuing a pattern of three Palestinian prisoners to be exchanged for each Israeli hostage. The releases under the deal involved only women and minors on both sides, though Hamas released men from Thailand and a Russian hostage under separate agreements.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the recovery of hostages remains one of Israels war goals along with the elimination of Hamas.

What does Hamas want in exchange for hostages?

Hamas has demanded an Israeli cease-fire, the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails and, in recent negotiations, the free movement of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza. Israel has rejected the unconditional return of Palestinians to the north. An estimated 1 million Palestinians have been pushed to the south of the Gaza Strip by the war.

Prisoner exchanges have figured prominently in the long-running Israel-Palestinian conflict. In 2011, militants in Gaza released the Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit after more than five years in captivity, in a swap for 1,027 Palestiniansincluding a senior Hamas leader , Yahya Sinwar , who is a primary target of Israels military campaign in Gaza.

Who are the hostages?

The people taken captive in Gaza come from 29 nations including Israel, with women, children and the elderly among them. Many hold dual nationalities. They include dozens of workers from Asia or Africa, many of them Thai farmers.

Some of the hostages were attending a music festival in southern Israel near the Gaza Strip; some were residents or visitors at kibbutzim, the farming communities in the area, where many people were slaughtered in terrorist attacks.

The captives remaining in Gaza include 17 women and two of the 39 children abducted on Oct. 7, according to Israel. Some of the remaining women are members of the Israeli military. Foreign citizens still held captive include eight from Thailand, two of whom were determined in mid-May to have died.

The White House said in mid-December that eight Americans, including three male soldiers, remained hostage . Three have since been declared dead, their bodies held by Hamas, including husband and wife Gad Haggai , 73 years old, and Judi Weinstein , 70, and Itay Chen , a 19-year-old Israeli sergeant. Haggai and Weinstein were killed on the day of the attack , according to a spokesman from their kibbutz . Chen was also killed by Hamas on Oct. 7, President Biden said in a statement marking his death .

Who were the two hostages rescued in Rafah?

The Israeli military rescued two hostages , Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har, in a raid in the southern Gaza city of Rafah on Feb. 12. The two men had been abducted from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak, near the Gaza border, on Oct. 7. In the rescue operation , military forces and a police SWAT team broke into a house in Rafah and engaged in a gunfight with Hamas militants while shielding the hostages before evacuating them, the Israel Defense Forces said.

Where are the hostages in Gaza being held?

Early in the war, Hamas said the hostages were kept in locations across Gaza to impede Israeli military operations in the crowded Palestinian enclave. The remaining hostages are believed to be held in sections of Hamass extensive tunnel network that the Israeli military has yet to clear. In a tunnel raid in the city of Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, the Israeli military said it found evidence that about 20 hostages had been there. The two hostages rescued on Feb. 12 were being held in Rafah.

Tamar Metzger, 78 years old, who was released after 53 days, was held in tunnels in Khan Younis. She described to The Wall Street Journal enduring her time in captivity in an underground room with a group of other hostages, under the watch of four captors. Yocheved Lifshitz , one of four hostages released in October, also described being held underground in what she described as a spiderweb of deep, wet underground tunnels.

What signs of life have emerged from Gaza?

Hamas released a video on April 24 of American-Israeli hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin , in which the 23-year-old said he was nearing his 200th day in captivity, suggesting it had been filmed shortly beforehand. Goldberg-Polins fate had been uncertain after witnesses and video from Oct. 7 indicated that Hamas attackers had blown off his left arm. Appearing with the stump of one arm, he pressed for Netanyahu to strike a deal with the group to free the remaining captives.

Noa Argamani , a 26-year-old university student whose abduction to Gaza on the back of a motorbike was seen in a widely shared video, appeared in a video released by Hamas on Jan. 15. A released hostage said that she had been held with Argamani for four days in an apartment under Hamass watch.

Eitan Gonen , father of Romi Gonen , 23, who was kidnapped from the Nova music festival, was told by released hostages that his daughter was wounded but alive.

How has Hamas treated the hostages?

The hostages released by Hamas endured grueling conditions that health experts said would have lasting psychological, if not physical, effects especially for the children .

Their captors provided inadequate food and water and refused to provide medication, according to accounts from family, friends and doctors who treated some of those who were released.

A hostage released in November described older captives spending days lying on mattresses and said their captors took away glasses and hearing aids when they were abducted, making it difficult for some to see or hear. Hostages were held in small groups, moved around Gaza and separated from loved ones, sometimes just before being released. Some have been forced to make propaganda videos.

The released hostages struggled to adjust to light and suffered from a lack of vitamin C and physical exercise after being held in cramped conditions underground for weeks, according to a doctor. Some were treated for injuries sustained during their abduction or captivity. Most were in stable or good condition, doctors said, though an 84-year-old woman was released in critical condition .

Most of the child hostages released in November had lost between 10% and 15% of their body weight, doctors said. Many had rashes from being held in unsanitary conditions and wounds that had become infected.

Many of the children spoke in whispers after their release and ate little, saying they had to save food for later, a doctor said, a reflection of the conditions under which they were held. Some had trouble sleeping, a sign of drug withdrawal after their captors drugged them to keep them quiet and induce sleep, a psychiatrist said.

This explanatory article may be periodically updated.

Write to Peter Saidel at Peter.Saidel@WSJ.com and Summer Said at summer.said@wsj.com
Anger is bad for your health in more ways than you think.

Getting angry doesnt just hurt our mental health, its also damaging to our hearts, brains and gastrointestinal systems, according to doctors and recent research. Of course, its a normal emotion that everyone feelsfew of us stay serene when a driver cuts us off or a boss makes us stay late. But getting mad too often or for too long can cause problems.

There are ways to keep your anger from doing too much damage. Techniques like meditation can help, as can learning to express your anger in healthier ways.

One recent study looked at angers effects on the heart. It found that anger can raise the risk of heart attacks because it impairs the functioning of blood vessels, according to a May study in the Journal of the American Heart Association .

Researchers examined the impact of three different emotions on the heart: anger, anxiety and sadness. One participant group did a task that made them angry, another did a task that made them anxious, while a third did an exercise designed to induce sadness.

The scientists then tested the functioning of the blood vessels in each participant, using a blood pressure cuff to squeeze and release the blood flow in the arm. Those in the angry group had worse blood flow than those in the others; their blood vessels didnt dilate as much.

We speculate over time if youre getting these chronic insults to your arteries because you get angry a lot, that will leave you at risk for having heart disease," says Dr. Daichi Shimbo, a professor of medicine at Columbia University and lead author of the study.

Your gastrointestinal system

Doctors are also gaining a better understanding of how anger affects your GI system.

When someone becomes angry, the body produces numerous proteins and hormones that increase inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can raise your risk of many diseases.

The bodys sympathetic nervous systemor fight or flight" systemis also activated, which shunts blood away from the gut to major muscles, says Stephen Lupe, director of behavioral medicine at the Cleveland Clinics department of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition. This slows down movement in the GI tract, which can lead to problems like constipation.

In addition, the space in between cells in the lining of the intestines opens up, which allows more food and waste to go in those gaps, creating more inflammation that can fuel symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating or constipation.

Your brain

Anger can harm our cognitive functioning, says Joyce Tam, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. It involves the nerve cells in the prefrontal cortex, the front area of our brain that can affect attention, cognitive control and our ability to regulate emotions.

Anger can trigger the body to release stress hormones into the bloodstream. High levels of stress hormones can damage nerve cells in the brains prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, says Tam.

Damage in the prefrontal cortex can affect decision-making, attention and executive function, she adds.

The hippocampus, meanwhile, is the main part of the brain used in memory. So when neurons are damaged, that can disrupt the ability to learn and retain information, says Tam.

What you can do about it

First, figure out if youre angry too much or too often. Theres no hard and fast rule. But you may have cause for concern if youre angry for more days than not, or for large portions of the day, says Antonia Seligowski, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, who studies the brain-heart connection.

Getting mad briefly is different than experiencing chronic anger, she says.

If you have an angry conversation every now and again or you get upset every now and again, thats within the normal human experience," she says. When a negative emotion is prolonged, when youre really having a lot more of it and maybe more intensely, thats where its bad for your health."

Try exercises. Her group is looking at whether mental-health treatments, like certain types of talk therapy or breathing exercises, may also be able to improve some of the physical problems caused by anger.

Other doctors recommend anger-management strategies. Hypnosis, meditation and mindfulness can help, says the Cleveland Clinics Lupe. So too can changing the way you respond to anger.

Slow down your reactions. Try to notice how you feel and slow down your response, and then learn to express it. You also want to make sure youre not suppressing the feeling, as that can backfire and exacerbate the emotion.

Instead of yelling at a family member when youre angry or slamming something down, say, I am angry because X, Y and Z, and therefore I dont feel like eating with you or I need a hug or support," suggests Lupe.

Slow the process down," he says.

Write to Sumathi Reddy at Sumathi.Reddy@wsj.com
Google had announced at the I/O 2024 event that it is rolling out the AI overview feature to all users, the feature had hitherto been optional as part of company's generative search experience. However, now users on social media have pointed out a number of critical issues with the feature including suggesting users to add glue to pizza and even eat rocks.

The issue was first pointed out by a post by user Peter Yang on X (formerly Twitter). In the shared screenshot, the user queries Cheese not sticking to pizza.

In reply, Google's AI overviews suggested that users to add non-toxic glue to pizza in order to give the sauce more tackiness. As it turns out, the overview was based on an 11-year-old Reddit post.

Another user queried Google about how many rocks should they eat and the AI overviews feature once again delivered a bizarre result. While quoting UC Berkeley scientists, Google's AI stated that is recommended to eat at least one small rock per day since they contain minerals and vitamins that are important for digestive health.

Continuing the same trend, some users who queried Google about the Muslim presidents of the United States were told that the country has had at least one Muslim President, Barack Hussein Obama.

Google acknowledged the issue in a statement to The Verge but stated that the mistakes were from generaly very uncommon queries and are not representative of most peoples experiences.

Netizens react to Google AI search issues:

One user on Threads wrote, They bought and killed dozens of good ideas and give us this alpha feature. Neat."

Another user on X wrote, "it's completely damning of google's principles that its defense for the failure of AI search is that the queries being asked are "uncommon." like a library telling you the more infrequently a book is taken out, the less you should trust it".

A user while sharing Google AI's results on Barack Obama's religious identity stated, "@Google you should take this "AI Overview" feature offline right now. It is thoroughly dangerous."

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Analysis

Tuesdays Republican legislative primaries delivered as promised.

They were turbulent.

Fifteen incumbents lost  including, in what could be a historic primary upset, Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder.

The House and Senate caucuses appear poised to shift further to the right, thanks in large part to a series of upsets in the Magic Valley.

Outside PAC money made the primaries more costly and more caustic. Even so, the big spenders success rate was mixed, as some negative campaigns fizzled out.

Theres a lot to process.

And it picks up where we left off in 2022, with Statehouse turnover.

Two years ago, the primaries claimed 20 GOP incumbents  a purge that seemed like a fluke, compared to previous election cycles. Tuesdays turnover didnt quite reach that level, but it was still dramatic.

One upset could have a profound impact on education policy. Rep. Julie Yamamoto, R-Caldwell, a retired teacher and administrator, brought a moderate and unapologetically pro-public school mindset to her job as House Education Committee chairperson.

As a result, her committee was frequently bypassed, as House leadership routed school choice and library bills to other committees. Yamamoto lost Tuesday to a challenger to her right, Kent Marmon of Caldwell.

A fellow moderate, Vice Chairperson Lori McCann, R-Lewiston, narrowly won her own primary Tuesday, and stands next in line to head House Education. But House leadership isnt obligated to promote a vice chair. The only guarantee here is turnover  which could prove to be minor, or major.

Winders ouster was Tuesdays biggest upset.

Winder, R-Boise, had served 16 years in the Senate, 14 of them in some spot in GOP leadership. His loss to a relative unknown, Meridian Republican Josh Keyser, isnt completely unprecedented.

In 1988, then-Senate President Pro Tem Jim Risch lost in the general election to Boise Democrat Mike Burkett. But its another matter  and perhaps unprecedented  for the Senates top leader to lose in a party primary.

Winders departure creates a vacuum at the top of Senate leadership, and sets up a showdown between the Senates mainstream GOP faction and its rising hardline faction.

Hard-liners are poised to gain seats in the Senate GOP caucus.

Two Senate hard-liners lost Tuesday: first-term Sens. Scott Herndon of Sagle and Chris Trakel of Caldwell. But barring any upsets in Novembers general election, four new or returning hard-liners could join the Senate: Keyser, Brandon Shippy of New Plymouth, Joshua Kohl of Twin Falls and former Sen. Christy Zito of Hammett.

The Senate GOP caucus  sharply split when Winder was re-elected pro tem in 2022  could be more deeply divided now.

Hard-liners also made gains in the House, even after losing incumbents like Reps. Jacyn Gallagher, R-Weiser, and Julianne Young, R-Blackfoot.
If the acolytes of Idaho GOP Chairperson Dorothy Moon and the Idaho Freedom Foundation didnt win control of the Idaho Legislature in Tuesdays primary, then they are clearly knocking on the door.

As noted by the Idaho Statesmans Ian Max Stevenson, the Idaho Freedom PACs Dustin Hurst was doing a bit of a victory dance. Hurst posed on X, formerly Twitter, that he long believed his wing of the Republican Party would soon overtake the Gem States political establishment, which is dead but doesnt know it yet.

After last night, I still believe both to be true, Hurst said.

There were exceptions.

In the Panhandle, former Sen. Jim Woodward, R-Sagle, reclaimed the seat he lost to Sen. Scott Herndon, R-Sagle, two years ago.

After months of enduring harassment from her antagonists at the GOP central committee level, Rep. Lori McCann, R-Lewiston, survived.

And a string of GOP incumbents in Bonneville County, notably budget committee co-Chairperson Wendy Horman, and Rep. Stephanie Mickelsen, both R-Idaho Falls, prevailed while hard-right Rep. Julianne Young, R-Blackfoot, was deposed, narrowly.

But Woodward benefited from an electorate still energized by the effort to recall the West Bonner School District school board and oust its unqualified choice for superintendent, Branden Durst.

McCann ran in a three-way race and even then, her plurality was close.

Mainstream Republicans held their ground in eastern Idaho but made few gains. Meanwhile the Magic Valley  once the model of no-nonsense, business-oriented Republican politics  as well as much of the Treasure Valley bent toward the right.

So for every centrist Republican who ousted a hard-core conservative  such as Woodward or Camille Blaylock, of Caldwell, who took out Sen. Chris Trakel, R-Caldwell  there were two more on the other side:

Josh Keyser, a private Christian school administrator from Meridian, defeated Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder, R-Boise  the first time a Senate leader has been turned down for another term since 1988.

IFF acolyte and former Sen. Christy Zito, R-Hammett, swamped conservative Sen. Geoff Schroeder, R-Mountain Home.

Sen. Linda Wright Hartgen, R-Twin Falls  a three-term lawmaker who received the worst IFF rating of any GOP member of the Legislature  suffered a staggering loss to Magic Valley Liberty Alliance board member Josh Kohl, of Twin Falls.

The Senate seat vacated by moderate Abby Lee, R-Fruitland  who was just two notches ahead of Hartgen and one ahead of Schroeder on the IFF index  was claimed by Brandon Shippy, of New Plymouth, who said the practice of infanticide via abortion must be abolished entirely.

Over in the House, the ratios were identical.
One of the roles we old folks fall into is to wish we could painlessly and conveniently give young people the useful wisdom life has taught us so they wont have to learn it the hard way.

Such are the thoughts that come to me as I witness the spread of militantly anti-Zionist protests across campuses similar to anti-war protests in the Vietnam War era.

Whether or not the volume, rage and heated rhetoric of the protests in signs, songs and chants is overtly antisemitic or not, it is not hard for me as a Black man to empathize when I hear some of my Jewish friends tell me the horror they feel at hearing their kids speak of feeling under siege for their Jewish identity. That its an election year only adds to their unease.

As a secondary debate swirls up around free speech and how much of it should be allowed  and in what fashion  I see reactions as rude as the walk-out by protesting students before Jerry Seinfelds commencement speech at Duke and as violent as the mass arrests at the University of Texas.

As civil libertarians have said, the best response to objectionable speech is more speech. But it helps to have speakers who know what theyre talking about.

As a student who remembers an earlier generation of campus protests, I was pleased to hear that some campuses have brought back the teach-ins. Teach-ins began at the University of Michigan in 1965 to protest the Vietnam War and expanded to colleges and universities across the country.

So did literature tables and sign-up sheets for anti-war petitions and other causes in a decade known for its abundance of causes.

Now, there are many differences between the Vietnam War-era activism, particularly in its early stages, and the Gaza protests. There was more of an educational component to those teach-ins, and not everyone who spoke at them shared exactly the same viewpoint. But eventually as the war dragged on, the protests of that era took on the stridency of what we see today on campus.

In that way, looking back, I can see the teach-ins of those days as our version of todays encampments.
Award winning Longford restaurant Vocella's welcomed Hollywood star Will Ferrell yesterday.

The staff of the Longford town restaurant were thrilled to meet Ferrell. "The amazing Will Farrell came to dine with us. What a pinch me moment!"

Ferrell previously came to Longford to search for his family roots and he also proudly wore his Longford jersey on TV.

In his own words: My dad researched that all the Farrells were from Longford so we went there a few years ago. Word got out I was in town and like 500 people showed up to this pub I was at and I ended up drinking at some Irish lawyers house at like two in the morning.

Also read: Huge Twitter reaction to Will Ferrell appearing on Late Late Show in Longford GAA jersey

In 2017 on the Late Late Show it was his attire that captured the nation's imagination - at least around the Longford direction anyway.

Also read: Longford All Time Greats: Profile #6 Will Ferrell

The native of California was sporting the blue and gold of Longford GAA on the Friday night for his big appearance on RTE's primetime show. While being interviewed he showed the colours of the O'Farrell county, which he wore with pride.

Also read: 'This is a big honour for me' - Hollywood actor to join St Patrick's Day parade
Longford Town Landmarks, featuring ten well-known landmarks and accompanying stories, will be launched by Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Colm Murray in Longford Library on Tuesday, May 28 at 6.30pm.

A Longford County Council publication, it was commissioned by then Longford Arts Officer Fergus Kennedy in 2023, before his untimely passing. The book was written by local journalist Jessica Thompson and photography is by Shelley Corcoran.

Longford Town Landmarks features well-known landmarks around the county town. It also includes stories from local people who share memories of growing up near these places.



From St John's Church to St Mel's Cathedral, the book takes in some buildings that are still in use, such as St Mel's College and the Temperance Hall. Other landmarks that have changed use over the decades are also included, such as the Fair Green and the Ribbon Factory.

Also read: Award winning Longford restaurant welcomes film star Will Ferrell

Landmarks featured in the book, and those interviewed include: St John's Church (Rev Simon Scott); The Ribbon Factory (Bridie Gobl); Connolly Barracks (Hugh Farrell); O'Reilly's Pub (Niamh O'Reilly); The Fair Green (Kevin Dempsey); Scoil Mhuire (Una Byrne); Temperance Hall (Peggy Nolan); St Mel's Musical Society (Robert Belton); St Mel's College (Fr Tom Murray) and St Mel's Cathedral (Seamus Butler).

Also read: Andalusian culture blooms in Moyne as part of the Longford Flower Festival



Copies of Longford Town Landmarks will be available to purchase at the launch in Longford Library on Tuesday, May 28 at 6.30pm. It is also available to be purchased from Newsround in Longford Town.

Also read: Longford to host first ever Pride Parade and celebration
A landmark Longford pub is celebrating after it was chosen as the Pub of the Year at the All-Ireland final of Irish Restaurant Awards 2024 in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road on Monday.

In addition to winning the Leinster Pub of the Year accolade, the iconic Begley's Bar, Killoe was also named as All Ireland Pub of the Year, with category being sponsored by Mad March Hare Poitin.

Almost 1,200 of the Irish hospitality industrys owners, chefs, managers and staff attended Monday's gala ceremony to crown the best establishments from across the country.

Also read: Award winning Longford restaurant welcomes film star Will Ferrell

Niamh Begley and Paddy Lee were 'over the moon' with their All-Ireland triumph and they have been inundated with congratulatory messages.

Pub of the Year  Sponsored by Mad March Hare Poitin

Leinster: Begleys Bar

Ulster: The Garrick

Munster: Levis Corner House

Connaught: Freeneys Bar

Dublin: Anseo

All Ireland: Begleys Bar

In total, this years Irish Restaurant Awards  the 15th year of the Awards  received over 160,000 public nominations for restaurants, cafes and other food services establishments across the country  the highest number yet.

Nominations were made by the public through The Irish Times website, the Irish Restaurant Awards media partner.

Speaking at the event, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Paul Lenehan, said, During these undoubtedly tough times for our industry, celebrating Irelands food and hospitality offering is as crucial as ever. Above all, the Awards give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the hard work of Irelands talented restaurant, cafe and food-led hospitality staff.

Also read: Who is Maura Higgins? Early days growing up in Longford to Love Island fame

These Awards highlight the resilience and innovation in our food industry. Behind every great dish is a team of individuals committed to creating memorable dining experiences.

As ever, this years Irish Restaurant Awards showcased the very best of the regions culinary talent. I would personally like to extend my congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their dedication and passion.

Also read: Longford man retiring after 42 years in Defence Forces to serve final tour with son

Each year, funds are raised for a chosen charity at the All-Ireland final of the Irish Restaurant Awards. This year, substantial funds were raised for the Irish Kidney Association.

PICTURES: Michael Collins' alleged lover's historic home goes up for sale for 1.65m
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: May 24 2024

Angelo Stanco and American Paving & Masonry Corp. were ordered to pay restitution totaling more than $170,000 to employees for forcing kickbacks and failing to pay prevailing wage.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Glen Head resident and his paving and masonry company were sentenced today on wage theft charges for demanding employees kick-back checks that they were entitled to receive from the State Department of Labor because of the companys failure to pay the prevailing wage on public work projects in Brookville and Sands Point.

Angelo Stanco, 59, of Glen Head, was convicted today before Judge Helene Gugerty of Petit Larceny (an A misdemeanor), and his company, American Paving & Masonry Corp. of Glen Cove, was convicted of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (a D felony). Stanco was sentenced to a one-year Conditional Discharge. American Paving was sentenced to a three-year Conditional Discharge and payment of restitution to 18 former employees totaling $171,278.02. The defendants made full payment of the restitution amount today to the employees ranging from a high of $21,227.26 to a low of $1,853.51.

Because the convictions were related to public work projects in Nassau County, both Stanco and American Paving are prohibited from performing New York public work contracts until May 23, 2029.

This defendant not only failed to pay his employees their fair and rightly owed prevailing wage, but further victimized and bullied workers by shaking them down for checks they received as compensation from the State and threatening their future employment if they did not hand the checks over, said DA Donnelly. Today, Angelo Stanco and American Paving finally made these workers, and employees from various other projects, whole with a restitution payment of more than $170,000. Angelo and American Paving will continue to pay for their deceit, as they are barred from work on public projects for the next five years. I thank the New York State Department of Labor for their partnership and for bringing this case to my office for prosecution.

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, In New York State, we are committed to protecting workers' rights and ensuring they receive fair compensation for the work they do. This restitution serves as a crucial step in rectifying the harm done and emphasizes our continued commitment to enforcing prevailing wage laws. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure justice for all workers across the state.

DA Donnelly said that Angelo Stanco, of American Paving & Masonry Corp., executed two stipulations with the New York State Department of Labor (DOL), Public Work Bureau acknowledging underpaid prevailing wages owed to employees on public work projects in the Villages of Brookville and Sands Point.

The stipulations, ordered by the Commissioner of Labor, required Stanco and American to remit $102,631 to the DOL for the underpaid prevailing wages and interest.

DOL issued 25 restitution checks for the underpayments and interest to 22 employees on December 7, 2018. Stanco and American provided the employees address information to the DOL allowing the agency to mail the checks directly to the underpaid employees. However, between December 13, 2018, and January 3, 2019, Stanco demanded several employees kick-back the DOL checks to Stanco and American as a condition of their future employment.

Many of the kicked-back checks were allegedly fraudulently endorsed by the defendant or double-endorsed with the defendants name and deposited into accounts controlled by the defendant. Seven employees were affected by the scheme, and the amount of the kickbacks totaled $42,595.57.

The additional restitution of $128,682.45 is attributable to wage theft by the defendants on public work jobs at numerous Nassau County locations between 2019 and 2022.

Those locations include road work done at the Glen Cove School District, and the Villages of Great Neck, Great Neck Plaza, Flower Hill, Roslyn, Roslyn Harbor, Freeport, Lawrence, Cedarhurst, and Hewlett.

DA Donnelly thanks the New York State Department of Labor, Public Work Bureau, for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this matter.
West Hempstead Woman Sentenced to Up to 9 Years in Prison for 2021 Crash that Killed Two Teens

Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: May 24 2024

Nylah Frazier recklessly drove at more than 100 mph and crashed her BMW into a dump truck, killing her two passengers.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a West Hempstead woman was sentenced today to up to nine years in prison for the death of her two teenage passengers in a high-speed crash in October 2021.

Nylah Frazier, 20, pleaded guilty before Judge Caryn Fink on February 8, 2024, to two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree (a C felony) and two counts of Assault in the Second Degree (a D violent felony). The defendant was sentenced today to three to nine years in prison. The NCDA recommended a sentence of seven to twelve years in prison.

Nylah Frazier recklessly careened through a red light at more than 100 miles per hour and slammed into a parked dump truck with such force that her BMW flipped and ejected her friend, 17-year-old Amanda Arguinzoni and 19-year-old Kurtis Caesar. The teenagers were killed instantly in the crash, said DA Donnelly. Two families are forever heartbroken having lost these bright, young lives and all that their futures promised. Our thoughts remain with the Arguinzoni and Caesar families at this most difficult time.

DA Donnelly said that, on October 21, 2021, at approximately 1:00 a.m., the defendant was driving a BMW X3 at a high rate of speed going northbound on Westminster Road in West Hempstead. The defendant ran a red light, lost control of the vehicle, and crashed into the back of a parked dump truck.

The impact of the crash caused the vehicle to flip and eject two passengers from the vehicle. Passengers Amanda Arguinzoni, 17, and Kurtis Caesar, 19, were killed instantly.

Arguinzoni was a senior at West Hempstead High School, while Caesar was a recent graduate of Cambria Heights Academy in Queens and worked for FedEx.

After a lengthy investigation, the defendant surrendered to members of the Nassau County Police Department on July 20, 2022.
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State Police, along with local and county law enforcement statewide, will increase patrols to combat alcohol and drug-impaired driving and reckless driving throughout Memorial Day weekend. The STOP-DWI enforcement period starts at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, and runs through 11:00 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2024. Memorial Day is one of the busiest travel holidays of the year and police will be out in force to remove impaired and reckless drivers from our highways.

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer driving season, and we want to ensure everyone gets where they are going safely, said Governor Hochul. I urge all motorists to drive responsibly and dont get behind the wheel if youve been drinking. Impaired driving is not tolerated in New York State.

To help ease travel during the busy holiday weekend, temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended beginning 6 a.m. on Friday, May 24 to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28.

Motorists should be aware some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The construction suspension aligns with New York States Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes the convenience of motorists to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridge work.

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, As we take time this Memorial Day to honor those who died in service to our county, we encourage all motorists to make safety the number one priority. Wear your seat belt, remain alert and above all, drive sober. If you do drink, do not get behind the wheel of any vehicle  instead, plan for a safe ride home. Troopers will be highly visible this weekend and will have zero tolerance for impaired and reckless drivers.

Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Governors Traffic Safety Committee Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, We want you to remember your Memorial Day weekend for all the right reasons: remembering those who sacrificed their lives for our country, enjoying time spent with friends and family, and kicking off your summer. We dont want you to remember it for the wrong reasons: getting arrested, crashing your vehicle, or injuring yourself and others. Please be safe and do not drive while impaired.

Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, Tragically, a Thruway Authority maintenance worker was killed, and another seriously injured earlier this month when they were hit by a tractor trailer in a work zone. Safety is our top priority, and safe driving should also be a priority for every motorist. Slow down and move over when you see vehicles on the side of the road. Our employees and emergency personnel will still be out assisting motorists over the holiday weekend. We thank our partners at New York State Police Troop T for patrolling the Thruway and keeping motorists safe.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, It is our goal at the Department of Transportation to make travel as predictable and safe as possible, especially during days of high traffic volumes. But even with this pause in road work, it is imperative that drivers do their part to keep everyone safe. Put down your phones, always pay attention, and slow down and move over for any vehicles on the side of the road. Lets work together to ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely this holiday weekend.

Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols by State Police along with local and county law enforcement agencies during this holiday weekend. Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles as part of this crackdown to more easily identify motorists who are violating the law. CITE vehicles allow the Trooper to better observe driving violations. These vehicles blend in with traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

This initiative is partially funded by the GTSC. The GTSC and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation remind motorists that their Have a Plan mobile app, is available for Apple, Android and Windows smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to even report a suspected impaired driver.

On Memorial Day weekend in 2023, Troopers arrested 194 people for driving while impaired, issued 13,471 total tickets, and investigated 839 crashes, with no fatal crashes reported. In addition to the New York State Police, numerous counties and agencies throughout the state also participated in last years Memorial Day crackdown.

Motorists should follow the states Move Over Law, which was expanded in March to include drivers to slow down and move over for all vehicles stopped along the roadway including law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks, maintenance vehicles and disabled vehicles that are stopped along roads across the state.

Text stops, including park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, service areas and parking areas along state highways support the state's effort to reduce distracted driving. All text stops will remain open, providing locations where drivers can safely and conveniently use their phones and other mobile devices for calling, texting, navigating and accessing mobile apps. Texting while driving is especially dangerous, as it requires motorists to take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and mind off driving.

The Thruway Authority reminds motorists that 10 service areas are closed and under construction as part of the $450 million redevelopment project. Fuel services remain open at all locations. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority's website and on the free mobile app.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: May 24 2024

Continues to Fulfill Commitment to Grant Clemency on a Rolling Basis.

Governor Kathy Hochul today granted clemency to 13 individuals, including 11 pardons and two commutations. This action recognizes individuals demonstrating remorse, exemplifying rehabilitation, and displaying a commitment to improving themselves and their communities. After implementing procedural reforms to strengthen the clemency process, Governor Hochul has made a total of 72 grants of clemency during her time in office.

The clemency process requires intense deliberation and consultation with law enforcement, prosecutors, victims rights advocates, applicants and other stakeholders, Governor Hochul said. My Administration has implemented significant reforms to strengthen the clemency process and we are committed to continuing those efforts."

The Governor's Office has taken a number of steps to improve transparency and communication in the clemency process. The Executive Clemency Bureau has implemented a new policy of sending regular letters to individuals with clemency applications, informing them of their case status, and providing information about how to submit supplemental information in support of their applications. The Governor's Office also launched an updated online web hub to assist clemency applicants with the application process; this hub includes template clemency application forms for both pardons and commutations to provide prospective applicants with improved guidance about what information to include when they apply.

The Governor also convened a Clemency Advisory Panel comprised of impartial experts to assist in advising the Governor on clemency applications. Following recommendations from the Clemency Advisory Panel, Governor Hochul is granting pardons to 11 individuals and commuting the sentences of two individuals.

Pardons

The individuals granted pardons today have all lived crime-free lives for well over a decade  and in many cases several decades  and have demonstrated positive contributions to their communities. The individuals receiving pardons have continued to have their lives impacted by their criminal convictions, including through immigration consequences, employment obstacles, and more. The Governors pardons will help alleviate these challenges.

Richard Miccichi, 77, has lived a crime-free life for 52 years. Mr. Miccichi was convicted of Burglary in the Third Degree, Petit Larceny, and Criminal Possession of a Dangerous Drug in the Sixth Degree in 1971 and 1972. He is a United States military veteran.

Manuel Mejia, 74, has lived a crime-free life for 38 years. He was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree in 1986.

Rafael Sosa, 56, has lived a crime-free life for 34 years. Mr. Sosa was convicted of Attempted Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree in 1990.

Paul Pierrilus, 43, has lived a crime-free life for 21 years. Mr. Pierrilus was convicted of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree in 2003.

Lakeisha Burkes, 51, has lived a crime-free life for 30 years. Ms. Burkes was convicted of Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree in 1993.

Patrick Wilson, 59, has lived a crime-free life for 18 years. Mr. Wilson was convicted of Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree, and Petit Larceny in 2002 and 2006.

Leroy Rushie, 60, has lived a crime-free life for 29 years. Mr. Rushie was convicted of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree, and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree between 1985 and 1994.

Antoinette Notice, 59, has lived a crime-free life for 27 years. Ms. Notice was convicted of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree in 1996.

Lucilo Diaz, 58, has lived a crime-free life for 26 years. Mr. Diaz was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree in 1998.

Alfredo Pimentel, 52, has lived a crime-free life for 31 years. Mr. Pimentel was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree in 1992.



Alim Kouliev, 64, has lived a crime-free life for 20 years. He was convicted of Driving While Intoxicated in 1997.

Commutations

The individuals granted commutations today have demonstrated remorse and a commitment to rehabilitation. Each individual has served a significant length of their original sentence, and during that time they have become mentors to others and engaged in activities to improve their lives and the lives of others around them, including through academic programming, facilitation of counseling and peer education programs, leadership within organizations aimed at improving the lives of other incarcerated individuals, leadership within faith-based communities, and more. Each individual is having their sentence commuted to provide an earlier opportunity to appear before the Parole Board.

Yohannes Johnson, 67, was convicted of Murder in the Second Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, and associated charges in 1982. He was 24 years old at the time of the crime and has served more than 43 years out of a 75-year to life sentence. Under his original sentence, Mr. Johnson would be eligible for parole in 2055, when he would be 99 years old. Mr. Johnsons sentence is being commuted to allow him an earlier opportunity to appear before the Parole Board so that the board can make a determination about whether he is suitable for parole.

Jermaine Swaby, 41, was convicted of Murder in the Second Degree in 2002. He was 19 years old at the time of the crime and has served approximately 22 and a half years out of a 25-year to life sentence. Under his original sentence, Mr. Swaby would be eligible for parole in 2026. Mr. Swabys sentence is being commuted to allow him an earlier opportunity to appear before the Parole Board so that the board can make a determination about whether he is suitable for parole.
Ahead of Memorial Day weekend, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that major construction has been completed on a $13.1 million project to rehabilitate two historic drawbridges on the Loop Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway in Nassau Countys South Shore. The two bridges will be fully open and ready to handle traffic headed to Long Islands barrier islands and public beaches this weekend to celebrate the unofficial start of the summer season. Work on the two drawbridges included the replacement of the steel decks on both structures.

Theres no better place to celebrate the start of the summer season in New York than the beautiful beaches on Long Island and we have pulled out all the stops to make it easier for residents and visitors alike to get to them this Memorial Day weekend, Governor Hochul said. The on-time completion of work on these two historic bridges will help get the Long Island summer off to a great start and eliminate any construction-related hassles beachgoers may face this weekend.

Technically known as bascule bridges - moveable bridges that feature counterweights to lift and balance the span  the bridges on the Loop Parkway over Long Creek and the Meadowbrook State Parkway over Sloop Channel have been undergoing restoration since the winter of 2022/2023. Workers used flame-lit torches to cut away the previous steel decks and then cleaned the frame before installing more than 10,000 square feet of new, galvanized steel in prefabricated sections. Weights were used to balance each of the bascule spans in the upward position while removal and connection was ongoing.

The deck replacement was done in stages to keep the bridges open, minimizing impacts to both motor vehicles and marine traffic. In the winter of 2022/2023, the Loop Parkways westbound section and the center sections of the Meadowbrook Parkways two spans were both completed. Workers returned the following winter to replace the remaining sections. A barge was positioned underneath the bridge to provide workers access to the underside of the bridge and to prevent debris from falling into the water.

The refurbishment extended the service life and improved the resiliency of both bridges, which are located in the Town of Hempstead and were each built in 1934. The Loop Parkway connects the Long Beach barrier island with the States Parkways while the Meadowbrook is a gateway to Jones Beach and other local beaches along the South Shore.

Maintenance work will continue under Loop Parkway drawbridge on the structures concrete support piers and adjacent to the road to restore the natural vegetation, which will require intermittent lane closures during off-peak travel hours.

Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, These historic bridges are vital to Long Islands barrier islands and we are excited to fully re-open them in time for the start of the summer season. I applaud all those who worked tirelessly to ensure this projects on-time completion and extend our appreciation to the motorists and area residents for their patience throughout this project.

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, Our Long Island State Park beaches are visited by millions of people every year for swimming, fishing, boating and more. I am grateful to the Department of Transportation for completing these upgrades in time for the peak summer season so beachgoers can more easily and safety reach their destinations.

State Senator Kevin Thomas said, I am delighted that construction on the historic drawbridges along the Loop Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway has been completed just in time for Memorial Day weekend. These bridges transport Long Islander's and visitors to our beautiful beaches, it's essential that these vital roadways are maintained. Thanks to Governor Hochul and the Department of Transportation, these essential routes are now safer and more efficient for all.

Assemblymember David McDonough said, I want to thank Governor Hochul and the New York State Department of Transportation for restoring these historic bridges back to their original design in time for the beginning of the summer season. It will be a benefit to those traveling to Jones Beach, which is the crown jewel of New York State Parks, and other beaches this summer.

Assemblymember Taylor Darling said, This is a big win for the state and for Long Island. With the summer months approaching, it is crucial that our bridges to and from the beaches are safe and secure. The completion of major construction on the Loop Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway in Nassau Countys South Shore ensures that the two bridges will be fully open and ready to handle traffic headed to Long Islands barrier islands and public beaches this weekend to celebrate the unofficial start of the summer season. Enhancing the infrastructure and accessibility in Long Island, benefiting both residents and visitors alike, is a top priority for our state.

For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Motorists are urged to plan accordingly and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individuals driver license.

Follow NYSDOT on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @NYSDOT and @NYSDOTLI. Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/NYSDOT.
Although Russias offensive near Kharkiv has grabbed public attention, Moscow continues to focus its main effort on taking the rest of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. Russian forces have achieved incremental gains on the eastern front over the past two weeks, most notably near the small but militarily significant city of Chasiv Yar. While Russias advances have been minor, the situation is unstable due to Ukraines manpower shortage, and the Kharkiv offensive has further stretched Ukrainian forces.

After some quick initial gains, Russian progress in the Kharkiv direction has largely stalled. The offensive, however, has achieved some success in its likely goal: compelling Kyiv to divert forces badly needed elsewhere. Ukraine began transferring units to the Kharkiv area a few days before Russia launched its offensive there on May 10. Additional forces appear to have subsequently redeployed to the area.

Some of the units sent to the Kharkiv direction were previously defending Chasiv Yar and nearby villages. Following their redeployment, Russia has managed to gain some ground in the Chasiv Yar sector.

In the weeks prior to the Kharkiv offensive, the situation around Chasiv Yar had appeared to stabilize. Russia launched its push at Chasiv Yar in early April. By mid-month, Moscows forces had captured the village of Bohdanivka, northeast of the city, and had taken positions on the outskirts of the Kanal microdistrict in eastern Chasiv Yar. South of that district, Russian troops advanced to the eastern edge of the Siverskyi Donets-Donbas Canal, which splits the city and provides a natural defensive obstacle. But Russian advances then stalled.

Meanwhile, Russia appeared to shift tactics, reducing its use of armored fighting vehicles (AFVs). The Russians had initially conducted regular mechanized attacks in the Chasiv Yar area. The opening attack, launched in early April, reportedly involved up to 32 AFVs, while subsequent attacks seemed to stay below the company level. This small scale reflects Russias diminished capability to plan and execute offensive operations, due to heavy casualties among its officer corps and professional enlisted troops. As time passed and Russian vehicle losses mounted, Ukrainian soldiers said Russia began emphasizing even smaller-scale assaults by infantrymen riding quad bikes, motorcycles, and utility terrain vehicles.

However, Moscows Kharkiv offensive has coincided with an uptick in Russian mechanized attacks in the Chasiv Yar area. Ukraine has repelled most of them. But Russian forces have achieved advances that, while modest, could augur further progress.

Russia has launched a series of attacks into the Kanal microdistrict. One of these attacks, on May 17, reportedly comprised 20 AFVs from the 98th Guards Airborne Division. Russia has since conducted additional, smaller-scale mechanized attacks in this area. While Ukrainian defenders have knocked out many of the vehicles, some managed to deliver troops to buildings within the Kanal area. Whether the Russians have managed to secure a foothold there remains unclear. Regardless, Ukraines grip on the microdistrict seems to be slipping. Russian glide bomb strikes have decimated many of the buildings Ukrainian troops use as defensive positions.

In addition, Russia has taken a few square kilometers of territory south of the Kanal microdistrict, according to Ukrainian analytical project DeepState. The Russians thus expanded their presence near the canal and within Ivanivske, a village southeast of Chasiv Yar that Russia has partially controlled for months. Russian troops have previously crossed the canal in this area but have been unable to secure a foothold on the western side.

Earlier this week, social media footage indicated Russian forces have also gained a little ground in Klishchiivka, a village southeast of Ivanivske that Ukraine retook during its 2023 counteroffensive. Troops from Russias 6th Motor Rifle Division (3rd Army Corps) advanced into the southern part of Klishchiivka and raised a flag in the village. Klishchiivka likely remains in the gray zone, though, with Ukrainian troops still controlling dominant heights to the west and northwest.

Capturing Klishchiivka and the nearby high ground would make it easier for Russian forces to cross the canal south of Chasiv Yar. Russia could then cut off the eastern parts of the city. Russia could also attempt to envelop Chasiv Yar by pushing to the village of Stupochky, south of the city.

Taking Chasiv Yar would bolster Russias position heading into an expected summer offensive, possibly translating to faster advances. The city is located on high ground, which would provide an advantage to Russian first-person view drone crews and allow Russian artillery to bombard the nearby city of Kostyantynivka, an important logistics hub, as well as settlements along the highway from there to the city of Kramatorsk.

While Russian progress on the eastern front remains incremental, its gains reflect a Ukrainian manpower shortage that will take time to resolve. The Kharkiv offensive has compounded this challenge, and Russia may well launch another, smaller offensive in Sumy Oblast to further stretch Ukrainian forces. Moscow likely hopes that attrition and sustained pressure on multiple axes will eventually lead Ukrainian lines to collapse somewhere along the eastern front.

For now, Ukrainian forces are holding. Time will tell whether Kyiv can mobilize sufficient manpower to stabilize its lines. In the meantime, Ukraine needs to make Moscows gains as costly as possible to reduce Russian offensive potential.

John Hardie is the deputy director of FDDs Russia Program and a contributor to FDD's Long War Journal.
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The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law filed a lawsuit in federal court on Wednesday against Harvard University claiming the institution has ignored and tolerated antisemitism on campus.

Through its public actions and failures to act, Harvard has made its position clear: Jews are fair game. Students and faculty can harass and discriminate against Jews, and they can do so openly and with impunity. Harvard will go out of its way to protect antisemitic protestors and conspiracy theorists, the complaint reads.

A Harvard spokesperson didnt respond to a request for comment.

This is the sixteenth lawsuit the nonprofit has filed against U.S. universities and colleges accusing them of tolerating antisemitism on campus, according to its case list.

The Brandeis Center accuses Harvard of violating its own policies and Title VI, the federal statute that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.

The lawsuit comes after Harvard students ended their pro-Palestinian encampment on May 14, which they had established several weeks earlier on the colleges Cambridge campus.

Harvard administrators agreed to retract suspensions of student protesters as a pre-condition of ending the encampment.

At the same time, on Wednesday, the day before graduation, school officials announced that 13 Harvard student protesters would not be able to receive diplomas, stating that the students violated the universitys policies by their conduct during the encampment protest.

The decision came after a recommendation Monday by faculty members to allow the students to graduate.

Who is behind the lawsuit?

The Brandeis Center is an independent unaffiliated nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., whose mission is to advance the civil and human rights of the Jewish people and promote justice for all, according to its website.

The center focuses on legal advocacy, research and education, including offering a free legal helpline for students experiencing antisemitism.

The center was founded by Kenneth L. Marcus, who has worked under the administrations of former Presidents Donald Trump and George W. Bush.

In a March profile about Marcus in the New York Times, critics accuse him of trying to suppress pro-Palestine speech.

In 2018 the ACLU wrote a statement urging senators to oppose Trumps nomination of Marcus to the Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights, stating that he had led political attacks on programs designed to ameliorate the historic effects of discrimination and advocated for the suppression of student speech  particularly speech critical of Israel.

The statement said Marcus has expressed opposition to affirmative action and ensuring that undocumented students have equal access to education, among other topics.

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a coalition of liberal groups, also opposed his nomination.

In an article in The Jerusalem Post from September 2013, Marcus wrote that even when the Office of Civil Rights has dismissed cases against universities for antisemitism, it still expose(s) administrators to bad publicity.

Besides Harvard, the Brandeis Center has filed lawsuits claiming antisemitism and hostile campus environments against the University of California Berkeley, American University, the University of California Santa Barbara, Occidental College, Pomona College, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Ohio State University, the University of Pennsylvania, Wellesley College and the University of California Berkeley Law

In 2022 the Brandeis Center filed lawsuits about antisemitism and hostile campus environments against New Paltz State University of New York and the University of Southern California.

In 2021, the center filed similar lawsuits against the University of Vermont, Brooklyn College and Stanford University. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was sued in 2020.

What has happened at Harvard?

The lawsuit filed on Wednesday is not the first against Harvard. In January, several Jewish students filed a lawsuit against the institution, accusing it of becoming a bastion of rampant anti-Jewish hatred and harassment.

Harvard University has been at the center of media attention and ongoing controversy when Harvards former president, Claudine Gay, testified at a congressional hearing in December about campus antisemitism. She was joined by presidents of the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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.

The House Education and Workforce Committee later subpoenaed Harvard for its failure to produce priority documents related to the antisemitism investigation.

Harvard has also received a failing grade in the Anti-Defamation Leagues campus antisemitism report.

For years Harvards leaders have allowed the school to become a breeding ground for hateful anti-Jewish and radical anti-Israel views, Marcus wrote in a statement on Wednesday.

Schools must hold students and faculty accountable. They must follow through with public consequences when Jews are harassed and discriminated against like they would for any other minority group, as required by law, he later added.
Levitate Backyard is back for 2024 with a star-studded lineup, fun events and a revamped menu to keep the South Shore rocking all summer long.

This years summer music series at the Marshfield venue features national acts including Ripe, Deer Tick, Steel Pulse, Donavon Frankenreiter and Matisyahu. Theres also plenty of other musical acts coming including free daily music from local and regional talent.

The Backyard was opened with the dream of being a gathering space for the community. Seeing the backyard of a surf shop become a place where local talent blossoms, major national touring artists make special memories, and creativity is celebrated is nothing short of special. Every day at the Backyard really feels like what Levitate is all about. says owner Dan Hassett.

The music isnt the only thing sizzling at Levitate Backyard. New in 2024 is a completely revamped menu to fuel concert-goers. Events also include Paint Nights with fine artist Colin McGuire, live score Surf Movie Nights, weekend yoga classes, artist popups, throwback decade-inspired Nostalgia Nights and more.

We started off the Backyard kitchen concept under the idea of bringing some of the delicious food weve experienced on surf trips around the world back home right here to Marshfield, owner and culinary creative director Jess Hassett said. Were tapping back into the source with an all new menu filled with fresh veggies, locally caught fish and all new flavors. Were pulling in new scratch-made ingredients and recipes across the board for a diverse menu of bites and beverages.

The second annual Backyard Ball will feature a performance from Lake Street Dive (days before their headlining set at Levitate Music Festival) that also features a tiki torch red carpet, live unforgettable experiences auction, live art, art gallery and more.

Full Levitate Backyard Lineup

5/31 - Will Evans

6/14 - Joe Samba

6/21  The Expendables

6/22 - The Nude Party

6/29  Griffin William Sherry

7/1+ 7/2  Ripe

7/12  Sons of the East

7/13 - Bermuda Search Party

7/17  Deer Tick

7/23 - The Original Wailers

7/24 - Langhorne Slim

7/30  Steel Pulse

8/2 + 8/3 - Donavon Frankenreiter

8/8 + 8/9 - Trevor Hall

8/16 - Rayland Baxter

8/17 - Slaughter Beach, Dog

8/23 + 8/24 - Badfish

8/22 - Matisyahu
Ashland Police Chief Cara Rossi will not face any discipline from the body tasked with overseeing the states police officers for her failure to report the assault of a civilian employee when she was a lieutenant in the Natick Police Department or for getting into a verbal altercation while she was being investigated.

The Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training, or POST, Commission issued its decision on Wednesday, determining that while Rossi was wrong in failing to report the assault, she had not shown a pattern of misconduct and that she had been sufficiently disciplined by Natick Police.

Natick Police disciplined Rossi with two shifts of suspension without pay and two sessions of sexual harassment training.

What happened

The commission opened an inquiry into Rossi in February 2023 in connection with an April 2020 incident where a Natick Police officer, identified in the decision only as J.Q. committed multiple acts of indecent assault and battery against a civilian employee of the department. Rossi later learned of the assault, but failed to investigate it or report it to her superiors  a violation of Naticks departmental policy. Later, in June 2023, while the investigation was underway, Rossi argued with a lieutenant in Naticks police department while visiting the station, Judith A. Cowin, the hearing officer, wrote in the commissions report.

That incident was added to the commissions investigation.

An in-person hearing regarding Rossis conduct was held on March 22.

On April 12, 2020, the officer assaulted the civilian employee of the department while they were off-duty and socializing with other off-duty officers. The woman then told her friend, a Natick dispatcher, that the officer had put his hand down her pants. The dispatcher urged the woman to contact the departments human resources, but she refused to do so and asked the dispatcher to keep the assault confidential, the commission found.

About a week later, the dispatcher told Allan Graham, a then-sergeant, about the assault because the officer continued to text the woman. Graham told the dispatcher the woman needed to report the assault because the officer was up for a promotion and to protect other women in the department. Ultimately, the dispatcher never reported the assault to anyone other than Graham and did not file a complaint form with the department. The woman did not file a written complaint, according to the commission.

The day after Graham learned of the assault, he informed his supervisor, Rossi, of the incident. Rossi urged Graham to encourage the dispatcher to file a complaint or to document the assault in writing at least twice, according to the decision. At the time, Rossi believed she could not act based only on third-party reports, particularly considering the woman did not want the assault reported.

By June 2020, Natick Police Chief James Hicks learned of the assault and ordered Rossi to conduct an investigation, the commission found. Rossi attempted to interview the woman, who was obviously uncomfortable and provided no information. She did not interview anyone else and gave Hicks typed notes from her interview.

At the time, Natick police had a general order in place dictating all alleged or suspected violations of lawsmust be investigated including violations reported to the departments superior officers. The texts from the dispatcher to Graham constituted such a report, the commission found.

POSTs decision

The commission found that Rossi should have completed a form or had one completed by the dispatcher or Graham and she should have begun an investigation herself.

Although Rossis decision not to follow policy and investigate the incident was influenced by her concern that the victim wished the matter to be kept confidential, the General Order makes no exception for confidential information, the commission wrote. There is no question that Rossi erred, and she has admitted such.

The department ultimately hired an outside party to investigate the incident and the departments failure to do so, which faulted Rossi for violating the departments general order.

Upon learning she was to be disciplined, Rossi accepted responsibility for the error.

Years later, on June 2, 2023, as the POST Commission investigation was underway, Rossi, who was on a vacation day from her role in Ashland, visited the Natick department to have a friend notarize papers. There, she ran into Graham, and the meeting turned rapidly unpleasant. Rossi expressed anger that Graham was not also subject to the commissions investigation.

The discussion lasted 30 minutes and left Rossi in tears, the commission found. Then, in an effort to protect himself, Graham reported the incident to Hicks, the chief. Graham accused Rossi of a verbal attack and harassment. In that case, an outside investigator found there was no cause to believe Rossi harassed Graham to the point where he would have feared physical harm.

Regardless of what was said, the confrontation should not have occurred, the commission found.

While the commission found Rossis behavior was not professional, it did not of the nature that the state law establishing the commission sought to address.

On social media, Rossis attorney, Leah Marie Barrault said her client was grateful for the ruling.

Chief Rossi thanks POST for its thorough and fair review of this matter, the statement reads. She shall now move forward and continue to work to be the best Police Chief that she can be for the citizens of Ashland and for the police department that she oversees.

Quilty, the officer accused of the assault, was decertified by the POST Commission last year after pleading guilty to three counts of indecent assault and battery in Middlesex Superior Court in 2022.
A Boston man seen tearing down blue ribbons on trees lining the Jewish Community Center in Newton appeared in court on Friday, according to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryans office.

Alexei Rodriguez, 49, appeared in Newton District Court and was charged with defacing property, larceny under $1,200, damaging property to intimidate, two counts of assaulting to intimidate, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of a civil rights violation in connection with two separate incidents, Ryans office said in a statement.

Newton police officer Whitney Hyde drove out to the Jewish Community Center on Tuesday, May 21, after he received a report of a man on a bicycle tearing blue ribbons down from the centers property line along Nahanton Street, according to Hydes officer report.

With another officer, they find Rodriguez, the report said. Rodriguez admitted to tearing down the ribbons, which he estimated to cost 10 cents, Hyde said. Rodriguez told the officers that he was not aware that the ribbons were on the centers property.

He refused to tell the officers his name, though he wore and ID badge around his neck that had his face and name on it, Hydes report said. Hyde recognized Rodriguez from separate antisemitic incidents where Rodriguezs car was seen harassing people wearing yarmulkes, he wrote.

Rodriguez told the officers that removing the ribbons was not antisemitic before he told them he was Jewish, Hyde said. Then Rodriguez shared his criticism of Zionism and his views on the war in Gaza before he said that the center and other Jewish organizations were spreading propaganda and Zionists were basically Nazis who he wanted to punch in the face, Hyde wrote.

The officers told him that regardless of whether the ribbons were on private or public property, he had no right to take them down and everyone has a right to express themselves.

Mr. Rodriguez stated that in the case of these opinions that they deserved to be silenced, Hyde wrote in his police report.

He was advised to not come back to the center, and he replied back that he never intended to be near the center in the first place, according to Hydes report.

Hyde then spoke with the centers security guard, who said he did not see Rodriguez on the centers campus. Hyde contacted witnesses who emailed videos and photos of Rodriguez tearing ribbons down.

In a second report, Officer Eric Rosenbaum wrote that Rodriguez was a suspect in connection with two previous incidents, including on the last night of Passover on April 30. Rodriguez was seen yelling, beeping his car horn at and flipping off people residents wearing yarmulkes.

Rodriguezs car was seen with a Palestinian flag on the passenger side of the vehicle, Rosenbaum wrote. The driver wore a hat and appeared to be attempting to hide their face while yelling, according to the officer.

During one of the incidents the vehicle targeted two 14-year-olds and followed them, while engaging in the same behavior, and left the scene at a high rate of speed when a neighbor assisted the youths onto their property to get away from the vehicle, Rosenbaum wrote. During both incidents, however, we were unable to identify the operator of the vehicle.

Rosenbaum and another officer made several attempts to speak with Rodriguez over the phone, who responded with a message that said he would not talk with them, according to the report. The officers tried to talk to Rodriguezs wife in Boston; she said she was not surprised and that Rodriguez was having a hard time with the events in the Middle East, while pointing to two Palestinian flags which were on poles on the second-floor deck to their residence, Rosenbaum wrote.

A post on Rodriguezs Facebook page called for DEATH TO ISRAEL. DEATH TO AMERICA. LAND BACK FOR EVERYBODY, according to Rosenbaum. A post from April 23 does include this text, along with a video about the United States vetoing a draft resolution to grant Palestinian membership in the United Nations.

Based off the incidents in which Alexei Rodriguez has been identified or his vehicle has been identified it is clear he is targetting the Newton Jewish community for the sole purpose to intimidate, and harass, by acts of vandalism or other means, Rosenbaum wrote.

Judge Jennifer D. Queally set Rodriguezs bail at $500 and ordered him to wear a GPS monitoring bracelet and to stay away from the victims, their homes, the Jewish Community Center and synagogues in Newton, Ryans office said.
One of Boston Universitys dorm buildings named after Plymouth Colonys military leaders will soon be without a name, according to BU Today.

After Wheelock College of Education and Human Development lecturer Anna Ward helped to lead a campaign to remove Myles Standishs name from one of the schools dormitories, President ad interim Kenneth Freeman said in a letter to the faculty council on Thursday that the name would be struck from the building, the universitys news website reported Thursday.

Going forward, the building will only be known by its address 610 Beacon St.

In the letter, Freeman said the decision reflects their advocacy, too, and I am grateful to those faculty, staff, and students for initiating this conversation several years ago, BU Today wrote.

Ward, an enrolled tribal member of the Osage Nation, told the news website that walking onto the Charles River campus and seeing the name of the dormitory left her shocked.

Proudly feeling like this was my entry to BU, and then that being the first building I saw was shocking, Ward said. ...Im not from the Northeast, I didnt have a full understanding [about Standish]. But it was a name that I knew was associated with these terrible acts against the Native people here.

Standishs history includes himself and Plymouth colonists luring members of the Neponset Band of the Massachusett Tribe into a small building and attacking them, killing several men and later hanging one man, according to the Massachusett Tribes website. The attack is known as the Massacre at Wessagusset.

After Standish was unable to find his target, a prominent Neponset man named Wituwamat, Standish found and beheaded Wituwamat, according to the tribe. Standish then displayed his head on Plymouths meetinghouse-fort for at least six months in 1623 and probably much longer, publicly displayed for people to observe the deterioration of its skin and flesh until only the skull remained to terrify, according to historian Martha L. Finch.

A lot of people didnt know the history of Myles Standish, Laura Jimenez, Wheelocks associate dean for equity, diversity, and inclusion and a senior lecturer, told BU Today. And so at first it wasnt like they were a no, but like an I dont know. So we gave them stuff to read, educated them, and when we came back the next month, theyre like, Hell, yes.

Freemans letter addressed those who offered a thoughtful rationale for maintaining the Myles Standish name, according to BU Today. Going forward, the buildings entryway will mention the old name and explain Standishs role in Massachusetts history.

Im happy we are on the right side of history on this one, Jimenez added to the news website. Im incredibly grateful for the community of students, staff, and faculty that took up this cause with me. Each time, it was more about educating people, not convincing them. And thats what we do. We educate.
A 40-year-old woman who worked as an office manager at a Brookline medical practice pleaded guilty to a charge of wire fraud on Thursday in connection with a scheme to embezzle more than $650,000 from the practice, according to acting U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Joshua S. Levys office.

Kathleen Libby, of Brookline, will be sentenced on Sept. 4, Levys office said.

Libby stole from the practice in several different ways, including by transferring money to a personal PayPal account she set up called Medline Surgical Supplies. The account name created the impression the transfers were expenses the practice incurred for medical supplies, according to a statement from Levys office.

Prosecutors say Libby also used the practices bank account to make payments toward purchases at a number of retailers, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton. She also used the account for payments at Best Buy, Target and travel-related websites, according to the statement.

Libby also put two of her relatives on the practices payroll and used its credit cards for her own benefit, prosecutors said.

The charge of wire fraud carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, according to Levys office.
The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy confirmed the first 2024 sighting of a white shark in Massachusetts Thursday afternoon  just a few hours after the New England Aquarium warned that white sharks had returned to Massachusetts for the summer.

Massachusetts shark biologist John Chisholm reported seeing two white sharks off Monomoy Island  which is off the Chatham coast  Wednesday evening, the conservancy said in a press release. The conservancy later confirmed the sightings.

Earlier this week, the aquarium received a report from a fishing charter company of a minke whale with a white shark bite near Chatham, the aquarium said. Additionally, in late April, Chisholm discovered a seal with fresh bite marks in Plymouth.

White sharks return to the Massachusetts coast every summer to feed on seals and other prey and can at times come close to beaches, the aquarium said. This is why its important to be aware of sharks presence in shallow waters.

To avoid encountering sharks, the aquarium also recommends avoiding areas where seals or schools of fish are visible and staying close to shore where emergency responders can reach you if needed.

You can report shark sightings and stay informed about shark activity in Massachusetts through the Atlantic White Shark Conservancys Sharktivity app. Sharktivity tracks white sharks movement through local coastal waters and can alert you when there may be a shark nearby.
The final minutes of debate on the Senates fiscal 2025 budget were interrupted late Thursday night by an emergency alarm in the Statehouse, forcing senators, staffers, and building workers to evacuate around 10:45 p.m. The budget passed without dissent just after midnight Friday.

State police said at 11:11 p.m. senators and staff could go back inside, saying there had been a water leak in the basement of the building. Senators gaveled back into session by 11:18 p.m.

What an interesting night, Senate President Karen Spilka said as she addressed the chamber following the unplanned half-hour recess at the end of the three-day debate.

Senators voted unanimously, 40-0, just after midnight Friday morning to pass the $57.999 billion budget bill.

With the Senate back in its chamber and having engrossed its budget, the dance with the House can begin after the long Memorial Day holiday weekend. Lawmakers are supposed to have a fiscal 2025 budget in place by the time that year starts July 1, but Massachusetts is routinely one of the last states in the country to put an annual budget in place.

When the emergency alarm went off at 10:43 p.m., the Senate was talking about a Sen. Jason Lewis amendment that would reboot the effort to reconsider the state seal, motto and flag with a new group.

When senators returned to the chamber, they finished debating the Lewis amendment. All that remained of the 1,100 amendments filed to the Senate Ways and Means Committees $57.9 billion fiscal 2025 budget was the technical amendment from Chairman Michael Rodrigues.

Since beginning to consider amendments on Tuesday, senators adopted 475 amendments, rejected 400 and withdrew 225. Most of those adopted and rejected amendments were dispensed with in bursting bundles that can check off dozens of proposals with a single voice vote.
Turtleboy blogger Aidan Kearneys lawyers argued that prosecutors have delayed the process of handing over evidence in his criminal case where hes accused of witness intimidation, WCVB-TV reported.

Kearney was arrested in October and was charged with eight counts of witness intimidation, one count of conspiracy and four charges of picketing a court, judge or juror related to his coverage of the murder case against Karen Read. Kearney has pleaded not guilty.

Kearney appeared in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham on Thursday. Both his lawyers and prosecutors blamed each other of withholding information, as both sides were ordered to turn over documents and evidence in connection with Kearneys case, according to the news station.

Judge Michael Cahillane previously ordered prosecutors to hand over what Kearneys lawyer called critical pieces of evidence by May 8, NBC 10 Boston reported Thursday.

While outside the courthouse, Kearney said the prosecutors were running out the clock and keeping me on thin ice by having me out on bail by not presenting this new evidence, according to NBC.

Kearney has repeatedly claimed Read did not kill OKeefe, and that his death was caused and covered up by others.

Kearney has targeted Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator into Reads death, his wife, Elizabeth Proctor, Juliana Nagel, Matthew and Jennifer McCabe, Juliana and Christopher Albert and their son, Colin Albert, according to Stoughton District Court documents.
One person was killed and more than two dozen people were displaced by a fire at a Braintree apartment complex Wednesday night, the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services confirmed to MassLive.

The fire at 26 McCusker Drive broke out around 10:24 p.m. Thursday night, Acting Braintree Fire Chief Fred Viola, Braintree Police Chief Tim Cohoon, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, and Norfolk County District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey said in a joint statement. Arriving firefighters saw light smoke coming from the building and entered into a first-floor apartment, where they found heavy smoke and flames.

An adult, the only person living in the apartment, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the statement. The cause and manner of their death will be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Firefighters were able to contain the flames to the single unit. The buildings other occupants are being assisted by its management company and the Red Cross, officials said.

The origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation, but officials believe it started in the bedroom. Investigators do not believe the fire was suspicious.
Editors note: This story contains descriptions of violence against a child.

The father of a 5-year-old New Hampshire boy whose body was found in Massachusetts in 2021 has filed a wrongful death suit against the boys mother, her boyfriend and the New Hampshire youth services departments.

Elijah Lewis, of Merrimack, was found dead in Ames Nowell State Park in Abington in October 2021 after being reported missing by the New Hampshire Health and Human Services Departments Division for Children, Youth and Families a (DCYF) a week earlier. Police found the boys body after about a day of searching the park based on a lead regarding where he was buried.

The day after his body was found, Elijahs mother, Danielle Dauphinais, and her boyfriend, Joseph Stapf, were arrested in New York. Dauphinais was later charged with first-degree murder in her sons death, but has not yet been tried, and Stapf pleaded guilty to manslaughter and assault in connection with Elijahs death in September 2022.

Last week, Elijahs father, Timothy Lewis, filed a civil lawsuit against Dauphinais and Stapf based on allegations that they abused, neglected and eventually killed Elijah. The lawsuit also names the DCYF as a defendant, arguing that it did not follow its own policies and procedures while investigating Elijahs living situation in 2020, and that not doing so resulted in the boy being left in the care of the woman who later killed him.

As a result of Defendants actions or Defendants inaction, Elijah suffered malnourishment, facial and scalp injuries, pressure ulcers, acute fentanyl intoxication, violence and neglect, that ultimately resulted in his death, the lawsuit reads.

The lawsuit asks that a judge award Lewis compensatory and punitive damages based on counts of assault, battery, neglect, breach of fiduciary duty and wrongful death.

How Elijah ended up in his mothers care

The nearly 50-page lawsuit tells the story of a young child who had behavioral issues  possibly due to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome  who was left in the care of his drug-addicted mother despite the fact that she didnt have custody of him and repeatedly said she did not want and was not able to care for him.

Prior to the summer of 2020, Elijah lived with his father in Arizona and hadnt seen Dauphinais since he was a baby, according to the lawsuit. Earlier in the year, shed reached out and asked for Elijah to come stay with her in New Hampshire for a month.

But the stay ultimately ended up lasting over a year, initially because Dauphinais had asked to prolong the visit, according to the lawsuit. Despite this, by the end of the summer, Dauphinais told Lewis she wanted her son to go back to Arizona because his behavior problems had worsened significantly and hed become violent towards himself and everyone around him.

But Dauphinais claims about Elijahs behavior caused Lewis to be so concerned for the safety of his other children that he no longer wanted to take Elijah back, according to the lawsuit. As Dauphinais pleas to have Elijah removed from her home became more and more desperate in the latter months of 2020, she and Lewis came up with various plans for a new home for Elijah, but none ever materialized.

Why the DCYF never stepped in

In the fall of 2020, Dauphinais repeatedly notified authorities of disturbing, abusive and extreme behavior by Elijah, who was not receiving mental health care, according to the lawsuit. The DCYF opened an investigation into Elijahs living situation in October 2020, and initially found many reasons to be concerned for his well-being.

However, around Christmas of that year, Dauphinais told the DCYF that Elijahs behavior had completely turned around and hed become a sweet boy, according to the lawsuit. Despite a mountain of evidence that Dauphinais could not manage Elijahs behavior and did not want to care for him, the DCYF appeared to take her at her word and closed his case on the basis that it was unfounded.

Despite any reasonable person recognizing Elijah had severe psychiatric needs and parents who were unable to manage those needs, DCYF failed to do what it is actually charged with doing under the law  protect Elijah, the lawsuit reads.

In doing so, the DCYF violated its own rigorous policies and procedures for evaluating and investigating child protection cases, according to the lawsuit. Around the same time, Dauphinais cut off contact between Elijah and Lewis, and Elijah remained in the home she shared with Stapf and his mother over the next nine months.

How and when Elijah was killed

Beginning around the start of 2021, Dauphinais and Stapf repeatedly and mercilessly abused Elijah, causing serious and long-term injuries, according to the lawsuit. The court filing details an alarming range of ways in which Elijah was harmed during this time, as well as communications between Dauphinais and her boyfriend in which Stapf asked Dauphinais to stop or lessen the abuse and she declined, once even calling her son a maggot.

Danielle and Joseph couldnt handle the little boy, and so, they beat him, tortured him, starved him, and eventually, killed him, the lawsuit reads.

On Sept. 21, Dauphinais beat Elijah so badly in the bathroom of her home that the floor tiles cracked, according to the lawsuit. The boy was left naked, covered only by his own blood, and within three days of being carried to his room following the beating, he died there.

Dauphinais and Stapf then worked to cover up Elijahs murder, enlisting family members to lie on their behalf and eventually burying the boy in Ames Nowell State Park two weeks after he died, according to the lawsuit. What ultimately prompted the DCYF to look into Elijahs well-being and later declare him missing was Dauphinais surrendering of a drug-addicted newborn under New Hampshires safe haven law.
WEST SPRINGFIELD  The city of West Springfield Department of Veterans Services has planned several events for this week to commemorate Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for the countrys fallen military personnel.

Memorial Day events will begin on Saturday with the flagging of more than 2,200 military graves in the city. Volunteers are encouraged to report to St. Thomas Cemetery at 420 Kings Highway at 9 a.m. to begin. Flags will be provided by the city.

On Monday, ceremonies will begin with a gathering at 6:45 a.m. at the Vietnam Veterans Bridge (between West Springfield and Agawam, off of Front Street in West Springfield). The ceremony will begin at 7 a.m. and will include brief remarks.

Afterward, the Veterans of Foreign Wars will embark on a dawn patrol schedule through all of the cemeteries where fallen service members are interred, as well as the citys war memorials. The patrol will begin at the Ashleyville Cemetery on Riverdale Street at about 8 a.m. and continue on to Paucatuck Cemetery on Sibley Avenue, St. Thomas Cemetery on Pine Street, White Church Cemetery on Elm Street, the North End Bridge (at the end of Park Avenue), the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the intersection of Park and Elm streets and conclude at the War Veterans Memorial at the southeast end of the Town Common by the North End rotary.

The events will conclude with a Memorial Day Ceremony at 10 a.m. outside of Town Hall at 26 Central St. The ceremony will be led by Master of Ceremonies Major Mustafa Thomspon, retired U.S. Army, and will include the presentation of colors by the Massachusetts National Guard, and West Springfield Police and Fire department honor guards.

Speakers at the ceremony will include Mayor William Reichelt, Sen. John Velis and Rep. Michael Finn. The West Springfield High School Band and Chorus, and the Fausey Chorus, will also perform. The Memorial Day Ceremony will be streamed from the city of West Springfields Facebook page and the local access channel, Channel 15.

Events will be coordinated by Jorge Santiago, the towns director of Veterans Services.
SPRINGFIELD  Five years after the citys premier Italian-American social club came back from a Latin King street gang scandal, it has become mired in controversy once again amid a power struggle between rival factions.

After a hostile takeover in late April, a new slate of club operators fronted by a devout Catholic and one-time mayoral candidate has struggled to gain a foothold at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society Club in the citys South End.
HOLYOKE  Workers across Massachusetts are breathing a sigh of relief now that the Environmental Protection Agency has banned the use of methylene chloride, a chemical used in paint strippers and adhesives.

The colorless liquid emits a toxic vapor that can cause cancer and has killed at least 88 workers nationally since 1980, according to the EPA.
A GROUP of property owners on Achill Island have called for an immediate stop to sheep wandering the public road and trespassing onto private lands.

The Group, Concerned Upper Achill Property Owners, have described as a 'scourge' the 'illegal wandering and roaming' of sheep along the public road and are calling on the public who are affected to join them in highlighting and bringing the practice to a stop.

The Group claims that in the last week, up to 300 people have signed up to 'demonstrate to the necessary authorities our strength of feeling on this matter' and want sheep farmers to ensure that their flock remain on the commonage and do not roam on public roads.

People do live throughout the island and we the people of Upper Achill which comprises the villages of Sraheens, Ashleam, Bleanaskill, Glencoe, Derreens and Cloughmore want an immediate stop to this wholly unacceptable method of sheep and rams grazing at the side of the public roads. Only irresponsible sheep owners graze their animals on the long acre resulting in the illegal wandering and roaming on public roads by these animals and then trespassing onto private property, the group wrote on their Facebook page.

Last summer, a prosecution was brought against three sheep farmers for allowing their sheep to wander on the public road in Derreens and resulted in a fine for one of the farmers.

The Group state that parents are afraid to bring their children along the road because of the sheep and that the local graveyard is regularly full of sheep resulting in graves being covered in sheep droppings.

The simple way to avoid all these potential and existing chronic issues is to insist these farmers stop this antisocial and lazy method of grazing sheep and rams.

This method of sheep grazing in this area of Upper Achill has only prevailed in the last twenty years. Prior to this time, sheep owners would ensure their animals grazed on commonage or fenced in fields and would not allow their animals stray onto neighbours lands.

Such grazing methods, despite local challenges over the years, coupled to a successful prosecution in July, 2023 are akin to social, physical and mental abuse of the local people by totally inconsiderate sheep owners and this practice continues to this day. Furthermore, these local residents are constantly cleaning and picking up sheep dropping outside their homes and have no doubt sometimes inside the home.

We, the people of Upper Achill believe that enough is now more than enough and these grazing methods must cease. We, the people of Upper Achill have no problems with sheep farmers who tend their sheep as well as rear them in a field or enclosure or manage properly on commonage. They are doing the job properly, these farmers are a credit to our community and we wish them every success.

The Group called on their local representatives as well as An Garda Siochana and the Department of Agriculture to assist them in stopping this method of grazing on the long acre. They also asked local people to contact them if they wish their names to be added to the group to show the authorities they want an end to this practice.

We are requesting you, as a member of Upper Achill community to demonstrate your strength of opinion and feeling on this matter, to explain our plight to all who can assist us in stopping this antisocial practice of unsupervised long acre grazing and request that our property rights are protected in accordance with the spirit of the 1851 Animal legislation Act, Ireland.

Currently, we are asking all local residents and their families in Upper Achill to allow us permission to use their names to quantify and demonstrate to the necessary authorities our strength of feeling on this matter and in an effort to stop the scourge of sheep and rams wandering on the public roads to graze and then trespassing on private property causing nuisance and damage, the Group wrote.
The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have expressed major concern around a recent opinion poll conducted in six European countries currently opposed to the introduction of the Nature Restoration Law (NRL).

The survey, commissioned by the #RestoreNature coalition, was carried out in six EU countries which currently oppose the law and found that 75 percent of citizens are in favour of the legislation.

The poll of almost 6,200 people was conducted by independent research agency Savanta across Poland, Finland, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands and Hungary earlier this month.

Speaking on this INHFA President Vincent Roddy stated how the opinion polls are clearly designed to put pressure on those countries' national parliaments and the use of opinion polls in this manner is very concerning.

The fact that the opinion poll was only conducted in six countries opposed to the law and not all EU countries, indicates clear intent around its objectives and you have to wonder, would the poll be published if it didnt indicate support for the NRL.

Of course surveys and opinion polls are often conducted by many organisations including ourselves, but what heightens our concern, Mr Roddy said.

He added: The body that commissioned the poll #RestoreNature coalition are, based on their own website, receiving financial support through the EU LIFE Programme and the EU Commission.

While the EU Commission and LIFE Programme will maintain that their financial support for #RestoreNature doesnt necessarily mean they were supportive of the polling, we should recognise that these opinion polls will definitely benefit EU Institutions anxious to get the NRL passed.

As the independent executive arm of the European Union with responsibility to implement decisions reached by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU, it is vital that the Commission remain independent and should not in any way be seen to influence policy at member state level, especially when it is policy that they have been so invested in, he said.

With European elections ongoing Mr Roddy said it is something that all candidates need to reflect on and indicate if it is something that concerns them and what actions are required.

In relation to the findings from the poll the INHFA President compared this to a non-government agency carrying out an opinion poll to see if the public in Dublin were interested in a city wide all-night bus service across all routes.

Any such poll would see high levels of support comparable to findings from the #RestoreNature commissioned poll. However, no proposal like that would ever be made without consultation and agreement with those most impacted  namely the bus drivers.

So should farmers, property owners and our rural communities that will be heavily impacted by the NRL not be given the same right, he concluded.
There was good news for Ballina after it was announced that the north Mayo town will receive 200,000 in funding under the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE).

Ballina was one of 26 towns around Ireland which will receive funding under the new THRIVE scheme which aims to reimagine and revitalise town centres though the renovation and reuse of publicly owned vacant or derelict heritage buildings.

Welcoming the funding awards, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Alan Dillon TD said:

Our towns and villages are the beating heart of rural Ireland. The Town Centre First Initiative is revitalising our communities the length and breath of the country. This initial tranche of funding under THRIVE will facilitate the development and enhancement of integrated urban strategies using a Town Centre First Approach and will assist local authorities to identify suitable projects and ensure they are ready to commence capital works.

It is great to see 26 towns across the country, including Ballina, Co Mayo progressing as the first ever towns under the initiative. The next tranche of funding will support those capital works, helping our local authorities to preserve, enhance, transform and celebrate heritage buildings while rejuvenating their town centres for generations to come, he said.

Local authorities in receipt of funding will be promoting the values and working principles of the New European Bauhaus  an initiative of the European Union  in their strategies and projects to ensure their projects are sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, inclusive and accessible.

Mayo TD Michael Ring also welcomed the funding for Ballina under the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme which is awarded under Irelands two European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Regional Programmes.

The Westport-based Fine Gael TD said that the funding is designed to empower communities to shape the future of their town centres by identifying opportunities which will help ensure the long-term vitality of our urban hubs.

THRIVE was developed by the Southern Regional Assembly and the Northern and Western Regional Assembly, working in close partnership with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. It aims to allow local authorities and citizens to reimagine and revitalise town centres through the renovation and reuse of publicly owned vacant or derelict heritage buildings.

Twenty-six towns in Ireland will benefit from funding under this scheme. The aim of this scheme is to revitalise our communities. This initial tranche of funding under THRIVE will facilitate the development and enhancement of integrated urban strategies using a Town Centre First Approach and will assist local authorities to identify suitable projects and ensure they are ready to commence capital works.

Funding of this nature can have a transformative effect on towns making them even better places to live in, work in and visit. This fund is empowering communities to shape the future of their town centres by identifying opportunities which will help ensure the long-term vitality of our urban hubs.

The Southern Regional Assembly and the Northern and Western Regional Assembly are currently evaluating THRIVE Strand 2 applications and expect to make awards for the first set of capital works projects under THRIVE in August 2024.

Local authorities will have an opportunity to apply for another tranche of capital funding under THRIVE in a follow-on funding call in Spring 2025, concluded Deputy Michael Ring.
The US Ambassador to Ireland, Claire D Cronin travelled to Mayo this afternoon to witness the signing of a new Sister Park arrangement between Wild Nephin National Park and Yosemite National Park in California.

The official signing of the agreement took place in Ballycroy where representatives from the Wild Nephin National Park and Yosemite National Park joined Minister for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan TD and US Ambassador to Ireland Claire D Cronin for the historic event.

The Sister Park agreement runs over five years and will enable international co-operation between both parks to support their shared goals in nature conservation and promoting natural and cultural tourism.

It will facilitate information exchange, collaboration and sharing good practice in areas such as community engagement, cultural and visitor service management, forestry and fire management, wilderness and dark sky management and climate change.

Yosemite National Park in California was designated in 1890 as a National Park and is home to five of the worlds highest waterfalls, granite domes and wells, deep valleys, giant sequoia groves and lakes. Consisting of over 300,000 hectares, 95 percent of which is designated wilderness, it is known for unique and pronounced landform features as a result of glacial action on granitic bedrock.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Noonan said: This Sister Park agreement presents exciting opportunities for both parks. While they may differ in size and geographical features, the challenges they face in Wild Nephin and Yosemite are really very similar. These include balancing nature conservation with visitor impact, preserving our ecological and cultural heritage, controlling invasive species, and educating new generations.

This agreement marks another connection in the shared history of Ireland and the USA and has a special meaning here in Co Mayo. It is also a reminder that the challenge of protecting biodiversity is both a local and a global one.

US Ambassador to Ireland, Claire D Cronin said the agreement will strengthen their commitment to conservation as well as the links between Mayo and the US.

I am thrilled to celebrate a new sister parks agreement between Wild Nephin National Park and Yosemite National Park, especially in the 100th year of US-Ireland diplomatic relations. These two parks are treasures of natural beauty and biodiversity. This partnership strengthens our commitment to conservation and highlights the deep historical ties between Co Mayo and the United States.

Catriona Ryan, Director of National Parks and Nature Reserves, NPWS said both Killarney National Park and Connemara National Park have seen the benefits of sister park arrangements.

Its great to see another of our National Parks participate in an international partnership like this. They are pathways to new thinking and ideas, create a sense of solidarity and are hugely motivating for our staff, she said.

Denis Strong, Divisional Manager with NPWS said that the local team are looking forward to tapping into the wealth of knowledge at Yosemite National Park over the next five years.

While Wild Nephin is definitely the younger sister in this arrangement between our National Parks, we also have lots to share in terms of our conservation work, along with our community and stakeholder engagement. Forestry and woodlands restoration, fire management and dark skies are just some of the themes that were hoping to pursue through our collaboration, he said.
The Funeral of the latest victim of a road traffic collision on the N17 near Claremorris will take place this Sunday in Crossboyne Church.

Andrea Gornowicz became the sixth person to lose their lives on a three mile stretch of the N17 near Claremorris since the beginning of this year. The 58-year-old woman who was born in Germany and came to Mayo around 40 years ago was a popular member of the staff at the Tesco outlet in Claremorris.

She died following a three-car collision on the N17 beside Castlemacgarrett at the turn-off for Crossboyne. It is understood she was returning home from a trip to Claremorris at the time of the accident. Emergency services were quick on the scene but she was pronounced deceased some time later.

Ms Gornowicz's funeral will take place on Sunday, May 26 in Crossboyne Church at 2.30pm but before this she will repose in Gilligans Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris on Sunday from 12.30pm with removal at 2 pm.

Staff at Tesco were shocked and stunned when news filtered through about their colleague. Andrea was one of the real characters and was direct and straight to the point. She was very humourous and we all had a great time for her. Whether it was packing the shelves or undertaking other work, Andrea did it her way.

She loved animals and was familiar to many out walking the dog on the Castlemacgarrett to Crossboyne road. She always felt much at home out around Castlemacgarrett. Andrea was unique and is a huge loss to us. We were absolutely gutted with the sad news, a member of the Tesco staff told The Mayo News.

Local councillor, Richard Finn, said Andrea was a prominent member of the Claremorris community. She was a wonderful friend of mine and supporter down through the years. She was a valued member of the staff at Tesco for the last seventeen years. I extend condolences to all the staff at Tesco, Claremorris, and to her wonderful friend and neighbour, Ann Lynskey, and the people of the Castlemacgarrett and Crossboyne area at this time.

Andrea is regretted by her brother Andreas Gornowitz and sister Monika Held, friends Carmel, Uwe and Andre Jastrow, and she will be sadly missed by her neighbours, colleagues in Tesco Claremorris and many friends.

The Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the 'Taugheen Community' Facebook page.
A new art piece graces Lough Mask with its presence: The mosaic was unveiled at the Robert Shaw Memorial at Lough Mask by Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Cllr Michael Loftus (Fianna Fail). A film and booklet were launched thereafter in Tourmakeady Community Centre. The film will be available to view online in the coming weeks.

Lough Mask is one of Irelands Blue Dots and also one of the remaining places that the native and rare Arctic Char remains. Blue Dots are high status objective waterbodies and there are 48 of these in County Mayo. When achieving this target, they have the highest ecological quality of all our waters and often a greater diversity of species that are sensitive to pollution.

Speaking after the launch, Dr Bernadette White, Blue Dot Catchments Programme Manager at the Local Authority Waters Programme said: We are very happy to have launched the Mayo Blue Dots mosaic, booklet and film to celebrate Mayos high-status objective waters. Lough Mask is iconic for Arctic Char and has one of the few populations left in Ireland of these species that date back to glacial times. It is important to mark these special waters that exist in Ireland and the diverse biodiversity they host.

In recent decades, Ireland has seen a concerning decline in its high-quality waters, impacting sensitive aquatic species like salmon, trout, and freshwater pearl mussels. Irelands River Basin Management Plan prioritises safeguarding these waters, setting a high status water quality target for a network of sites around the country known as the Blue Dots. The percentage of high-quality sites dropped from 31.6% in 1987-1990 to 18.4% in 2019-2021, with Q5 sites, reflecting near natural conditions, plummeting to just 1.1%. Initiatives like the Blue Dot Catchments Programme (Blue Dot Programme - Local Authority Water Programme (lawaters.ie)) and Waters of Life Integrated Project (Waters of LIFE - Waters of Life) aim to reverse these trends.
Cytidel, who are based in Castlear and are supported by Local Enterprise Office Mayo, were winners at this years National Enterprise Awards. The awards, which took place at the Round Room in the Mansion House in Dublin last night, Thursday, May 24, were in their 24th year. They are run annually by the Local Enterprise Offices.

Cytidel took home the Innovation award. The Castlebar based company is a cyber intelligence and risk prioritisation platform, enabling customers to automate identification of the vulnerabilities most likely to lead to a security breach, and prioritise the fixes necessary to prevent them. This reduces breaches by up to 80 percent with half the effort.

Last years National Enterprise Awards was won by another Mayo business, Advanced Cosmetics. The Ballina based company was set up by Noreen Hackett in 2018. They have achieved significant success, securing contracts with some of the biggest brand names in the cosmetics industry.

John Magee, Local Enterprise Office Mayo: This is a deserved win for Cytidel on a national platform. Cytidel have demonstrated their innovation, and also their enterprise skills in building a cutting-edge technology business. Their product addresses an important need in the modern world, and they have shown they have the ability to build it into a correspondingly important business based in the West of Ireland.

Matthew Conlon (ex-Accenture and Workhuman) and Conor Flannery (ex-Integrity360 and Accenture) co-founded Cytidel in 2021 after spending a decade in cyber security across IT, finance and policing. Having witnessed firsthand how cyber security teams are overwhelmed with the quantity of cyber risks, the pair developed Cytidel.

Matthew Conlon, CEO and founder of Cytidel said: Every day, over-stretched cyber security professionals are faced with thousands of new security vulnerabilities and little time or resources to fix them all. We developed a platform that helps them to get clarity from the noise, significantly improving their ability to identify and fix the cyber risks posing the greatest threat to their revenue streams. In a world where cyber threats are increasing 25 percent year on year, Cytidel provides actionable insights and clear remediation guidance.

LIST OF WINNERS IN FULL

The overall winner at this years National Enterprise Awards was Dreamdev Technologies who are supported by Local Enterprise Office Kildare. DreamDev was set up by Eoin Barry and Douglas Augiar in 2019 with the aim of utilising online tools and software to enable faster digitalisation for companies. Their flagship product, the dot-star enterprise software platform enables software engineering teams to create their own bespoke software programmes which deliver results with significantly reduced resourcing requirements.

Announcing the award winners at the Mansion House and after earlier launching the new Local Enterprise Office Policy Statement, Minister Peter Burke said; The National Enterprise Awards are the highlight of the small business and enterprise calendar. Year on year the diversity of businesses and the standard of companies that are coming through the process is getting stronger. We should not be surprised given the innovation and endurance that businesses have shown in recent years. We have some outstanding winners but the finalists on the whole have been excellent, and this is very much the start of their journey.

The new Local Enterprise Office Policy Statement I announced today sets out the vital role that LEOs have in fostering entrepreneurship and helping small businesses thrive every day across the country. The Policy Statement charts a clear roadmap of how LEOs will align their work with the priorities of the White Paper on Enterprise and ensure that their high-calibre offering continues into the future. I pay tribute to the great work of the current and former staff of the LEOs who, over the last 10 years, have helped and guided small businesses in Ireland which are at the heart of every town, village and community and are vital to our economy.

Several other companies won across a range of categories at the Awards, which were established by the Local Enterprise Offices to celebrate the impact and quality of small businesses across the country:

Best Export Award

The winner of the Best Export Award was Eskimo Software. The company, who are supported by Local Enterprise Office Carlow, have created a CRM and lead generation software package specifically for car dealerships to improve efficiency and sales.

Best Start Up Award

The winner of the Best Start-Up Award was The Black Stuff. The mens care business, who are supported by Local Enterprise Office Dun Laoghaire Rathdown, are creating over 10,000 handmade soaps a week and have utilised social media to create one of the fastest growing mens care brands in the country.

Green/Sustainability Award

The winner of the Green/Sustainability Award was Living Green. The sustainable living company, supportered by Local Enterprise Office Donegal, create a range of products from organic compost and worm cast to wheatgrass and forzen shots.

One To Watch Award

The winner of the One to Watch Award was Drink Botanicals. The drinks company, supported by Local Enterprise Office Dublin City, have created a suite of products such as natural based syrups, cocktail ancilliaries and dried garnishes that are being sold directly into over 200 bars, resturants and off licences.

This years winners share a 50,000 investment fund and eight regional winners were also announced on the night.

Those regional winners were:







PRM Assist in the Dublin Region (backed by LEO Fingal)

Nutshed in the South West Region (backed by LEO Tipperary)

Watt Footprint in the Mid East Region (backed by LEO Westmeath)

Expat Taxes in the South Region (backed by LEO Waterford)

Bradys Coffee in the South East Region (backed by LEO Wicklow)

Sleater Solutions in the North West Region (backed by LEO Sligo)

Zoma in the North East Region (backed by LEO Louth)

Gra Chocolates in the West Region (backed by LEO Galway)







Also honoured on the night were Bevcraft who won the Outstanding Achievement Award. An example of a company who began with their Local Enterprise Office and then accessed support from Enterprise Ireland to grow their business globally.

Established by friends Ciaran Gorman and Darren Fenton who wanted to create an international business with significant employment in their hometown of Mullingar. Their independent canning business and their mobile canning function allowed any small brewer to can and brand their drinks on site. They now have 8 locations across Europe, servicing 20 countries and handling over 100 million cans per year.

Previous winners of the National Enterprise Awards include Irish Yoghurts (1998), Obelisk (2000), Simtech Aviation (2008), Digiweb (2004) and Design Pro (2013), Terra NutriTech (2018), Pestle & Mortar (2019), Bevcraft (2021) and Aqualicence in 2022.

BACKGROUND

The National Enterprise Awards also celebrated 10 years since the inception of the Local Enterprise Offices in 2014 with several former winners attending on the evening.

The National Enterprise Awards are one of several initiatives that the Local Enterprise Offices run, to foster entrepreneurship across the country. Others include Local Enterprise Week, the Student Enterprise Programme, National Womens Enterprise Day and Local Enterprise Showcase. The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland.

Established in 2014, the Local Enterprise Offices are the essential resource for any entrepreneur looking to start a business or any small business that is looking for support or advice to help them grow. Since their inception eight years ago, the Local Enterprise Offices have helped create over 70,000 jobs across the country. The LEOs work with thousands of client companies across Ireland in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports to small businesses. For more information see www.LocalEnterprise.ie
A family from outside Ballinrobe have recorded perfect attendance throughout almost 40 years of schooling.

Roisin, Aoibhin, and Micheal Monaghan, achieved a remarkable milestone on Thursday evening when Micheal graduated from Ballinrobe Community School.

The siblings record began in 2005 when Roisin, had her first day in Roxboro NS, which is not far from their native Knockgloss.

Speaking to The Mayo News, their father, Michael, said that going to school was never an issue for his children.

Even on the day of a funeral, the children would attend school in the morning before signing out.

Mr Monaghan said that the teachers in Roxboro NS played a big part in them never missing a day.

The teachers in primary school were more like their friends than their teachers, not like the day I was going to school. They actually loved the teachers, he said.

They were actually looking forward to going to school. I remember in my day, I used to be dreading going to school.

Though their school days are officially over, Mr Monaghan maintained that his children have brought the discipline needed to achieve perfect attendance to other areas of their lives.

If they got a part-time job, they will not ring in sick. They will not miss it. If theyre scheduled to work, theyll work, he said.

Roisin is currently living in Canada while Aoibhin has just finished studying music performance in Belfast.
by Dave Morgan , Featured Contributor, May 23, 2024

Make no mistake: Ukraine is the battlefield for Americas future.

For most Americans, foreign wars tend to be an abstract issue. That is, until our soldiers are boots on the ground and the horrible reality of war comes home through their experiences.

So its not surprising many have asked over the past two years whether getting involved in the Ukraine-Russia war was in the best interest of the United States, as it is being fought seven time zones away. Thus, many ask questions like: Arent there other priorities for our tens of billions of dollars and our governments attention? Dont we have to secure our Mexican border first? Isnt this Europes fight, not ours?

We cant fully appreciate how important it is for America to be involved in helping Ukraine defend itself from the unprovoked Russian invasion, the continuing atrocities it inflicts, and the unhinged rhetoric of its leader if we dont imagine, at least for arguments sake, what our world could look like if Russia defeats Ukraine.

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Russia would keep going and trip NATO treaty tripwires. Russia would be expected to leverage its momentum and war-footed, weapons-producing economy and apply pressure on more of its neighbors, probably in the Balkans or Baltics, or both. NATO nations abound in these regions and the U.S. would find itself bound by treaty to send in our troops.

Emboldened China, Iran and North Korea will step up their own regional aggressions. China takes Taiwan. Iran pushes harder on Israel as moderate nations in the Middle East lose their ability to hold Iran back. North Korea, sensing U.S. weakness, intensifies its ransomware cyber attacks against U.S. business and missile launches over Japan and South Korea, seeking economic payoffs from each of them.

World food security crisis. Russia didnt just invade Ukraine because it wants a buffer zone to NATO; it wants control of one of the worlds greatest food producers. Taken together, Ukraine and Russia produced 30% of the worlds wheat and barley, more than 50% of its sunflower oil and 20% of its corn. No surprise that China is supporting Russia now, with more than $220 billion of trade over the past year, buying oil and food and sending cash and weapons components in return. Are you ready for Russia to control so much of the worlds food?

As noted author and Ukraine expert Timothy Synder tells us, Ukraine is like Czechoslovakia in 1938. If Europe had been able to stop Hitler there, we probably wouldnt have had a Second World War. But if Ukraine falls, the world is onto a 1939 scenario -- and the possibility of a much bigger war, which might not be stopped in time.

Given the news from Ukraine over the past months, we all know that pushing back the Russians wont be easy, and will require a lot more support, not just from the U.S., but particularly from other European nations.

To better understand what is likely to be required to keep Russia from winning, I highly recommend this solid piece from Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a top think-tank on international issues, on potential solutions to the five key strategic challenges that it sees to victory in Ukraine today

What can you do to help? Please read the CSIS piece. The better informed we all are, the better our discourse and the better decisions we can all make.

If you agree that supporting Ukraine is in the absolute best interests of the U.S., which I certainly do, please reach out to your Congressional delegation and let them know. Thank those who supported the recent funding package. Let them know you care and are watching. Recommend that they keep the support up.

Finally, if your company outsources software and IT services, see if they use Ukraine firms. They are among the best in the world and, unfortunately, many U.S. companies have stopped doing business in Ukraine over concerns of work interruptions.

Those concerns have been unfounded. Despite Russian attacks against the countrys power infrastructure, Ukraine IT services companies have maintained 98+% uptime, showing incredible tenacity, creativity and super-smart usage of batteries and satellite internet -- and unbelievable, awe-inspiring people that will not be defeated!
by Colin Kirkland , May 23, 2024

In an effort to capture the attention of a younger generation of consumers, Walmart is expanding its concept of virtual shopping with Walmart Realm, an immersive world that invites customers to purchase items directly inside different virtual spaces curated by real-world influencers.

Built on the Emperia platform -- which has hosted immersive virtual shopping experiences for brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, and LOccitane -- Walmart Realm currently includes three distinct experiences created around current social media aesthetic trends: Mai Phams So Jelly invites consumers to purchase items in seashells under the ocean; Mackenzie and Malias Yallternativer, where the wild west meets gothic glam; and Nava Rose's Go Chromatic, a melted metallic world.

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Consumers can move through each shop, using the mouse pad for an 180-degree view and viewing featured items across beauty, fashion and home. Clicking on an item adds it to the customers cart, allowing them to make a purchase directly from Walmarts online store.

The shops also feature a gamified option marked by sparks or the floating Walmart symbol, which visitors can collect to win prizes.

The products being featured align with each virtual store's unique theme (neon translucent handbags in So Jelly; a bolo tie and denim jumpsuit in Yallternative) and were selected by the hosting creator.

Beginning in July, Walmart has plans to keep expanding the platform to feature more storefronts and partnerships with influencers, with additional plans for holiday-special storefront and more.

At Walmart, we're embracing innovation with e-commerce experiences designed with the virtual world at the heart, said Walmart's CMO William White in a LinkedIn post.

This is not Walmart's first foray into virtual commerce. In 2022, the retailer launched two experiences in metaverse gaming platform Roblox called Walmart Land and Universe of Play.

However, the following year Walmart yanked its Universe of Play experience from the platform after Truth in Advertising (TINA) and three other consumer groups labeled it an advergame that exposed young children to deceptive marketing.

The company then released Supercampus, a gamified back-to-school adventure in which Roblox players ages 13 and up could interact with branded game elements from BIC Highlighters, Crayola Crayon and 3M's Post-it Notes.

Last month, the company also introduced the ability to try on virtual versions of real-life products in Roblox with the option to buy those products directly from within the gaming platform.
by Ray Schultz , May 23, 2024

An Illinois bill that would require big tech companies to pay usage fees for content they use from publications has moved to the next stage.

Senate Bill 359 was advanced by the Senate Executive Committee on Wednesday and is "now heading to the full Senate," writes State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford).

Otherwise known as the Journalism Presservation Act, the bill ensures that news publishers are fairly compensated for their work, which is increasingly being utilized by large tech platforms for profit, Stadelman adds.

The legislation mandates that major online platforms pay local news publishers for use of their content. An arbitration process would determine the appropriate compensation in each case.

The health of our local journalism industry directly impacts the health of our democracy, Stadelman says. This bill is not just about fair compensation  its about preserving the vital role that local news organizations play in our society.

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It remains to be seen if the tech giants cut off news in Illinois.

In March, Meta spokesperson Jamie Radice told The Verge that we will be forced to make the same business decision that we made in Canada to end the availability of news in Illinois if the bill passes.

In a hearing, Stadelman dismissed the idea that news could be blocked.

I find that hard to believe, Stadelman said. Its a mutually beneficial relationship. The problem is the compensation does not flow back to the local newsrooms and publishers.

The other opponents of the measure include TechNet, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, The Center Square reports. The proponents include the News Media Alliance and the Local Journalism Task Force.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, May 23, 2024

A subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday advanced the proposed Kids Online Safety Act, a controversial proposal to regulate how social media platforms display material to minors under 17.

But the bill could still face significant changes before it comes up for a vote by the full House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-New Jersey), ranking member of the committee, said during Thursday's hearing that he was concerned the bill runs the risk of creating additional harm to young people by giving social media companies an incentive to suppress material.

He said that the measure, in its current form, could cause social media companies to overfilter content, out of an abundance of caution about legal risks.

Though Pallone voted to advance the bill, he also said the full committee will take up his concerns.

The measure -- introduced by Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-Florida), Kathy Castor (D-Florida), Erin Houchin (R-Indiana) and Kimberly Schrier (D-Washington) -- aims to tackle potential harms associated with social media use, such as depression, eating disorders, and online bullying.

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The proposed law would require large tech platforms to use reasonable care to avoid harming minors via design features such as notifications, automatic playing of videos, personalized recommendations and appearance-altering filters.

Some youth advocates support the proposed law, arguing that it will force tech platforms to protect teens from content that could encourage drug use, self-harm or suicide.

But the bill has drawn opposition from civil liberties groups, who say it's unconstitutional to restrict publishers' ability to recommend content.

In general, the First Amendment protects all lawful content, including material that might be considered harmful, such as hate speech, photos associated with eating disorders, and material discussing drug use.

The Center for Democracy & Technology and other advocacy groups argued in a recent letter to lawmakers that the bill will give companies an incentive to avoid recommending posts that law enforcers might consider harmful -- including content about sexual health and reproductive care, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ issues.

Earlier this month, the Interactive Advertising Bureau was among 13 organizations that urged Congressional leaders to reject the proposed law, arguing that it raised concerns about partisan politicians enforcing content-based laws, and concerns about privacy.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, May 23, 2024

Lawmakers on a House subcommittee on Thursday advanced a draft privacy bill that would impose sweeping nationwide restrictions on companies' ability to collect and use data.

The American Privacy Rights Act -- introduced in both chambers last month by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington), and revised earlier this week -- now moves to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which could make additional changes.

The current version of the bill appears to require businesses to allow consumers to opt out of online behavioral advertising -- meaning ads served based on cross-site and cross-app data. The original version had language that would have either required companies to obtain opt-in consent for behavioral advertising, or banned online behavioral advertising altogether.

The current draft bill also would require data brokers to let consumers opt out of data collection, and request deletion of their data. The measure additionally would allow consumers to sue over violations.

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Rodgers, who chairs the Energy and Commerce committee, described the proposed bill as an opportunity for a reset.

Big Tech is capturing more and more data to surveil and control over our lives, she said. Americans should be in control of how that information is disclosed, and it should be voluntary, not coerced, she added.

Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-New Jersey), said Thursday that a national privacy bill was long overdue, but also indicated that the measure was still a work in progress.

I know we can continue to work to further strengthen the bill, he said.

He also appeared to suggest that provisions regarding online ad targeting could again be revised.

We need to work with stakeholders to make sure the definitions of targeted advertising and other types of advertising are right, and we are preventing abusive use and sharing of consumers' data for advertising purposes.
by Barbara Lippert , Columnist, May 23, 2024

Samantha the computer, the love object of the movie "Her" -- and Sam Altman's favorite as well.



At the risk of seeming a suck-up, I must commend MediaPosts editor in chief, Joe Mandese, on his article about the future of AI: Consumers to AI Companions: Its Not You, Its Me.

Its the discussion du jour. I want to break up with AI when I consider that it will be, as The Washington Post just announced, increasingly a part of news writing and gathering.

In a digital world, the media can no longer afford human workers, with their need for thoroughness and occasional transcendence of the form into art.

That goes for an expiration date on human, handmade art, too, because the AI version is so much cheaper. Visually, were headed for viewing many soul-crushingly empty vistas and supernumerary limbs.

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Lately, of course, the dust-up between the actress Scarlett Johansson and Open AIs Sam Altman has been much in the news. It would seem to confirm peoples worst fears about unchecked AI development: that AI companies will gobble up intellectual property, data, and even likenesses, without regard for the artists and creators. The cries are growing.

After Johansson retained a lawyer to accuse Open AI of copying her voice, CEO Altman seemingly lied that the voice of the companys latest product, ChatGPT-4o was not a simulation of Johannsons.

But he did pull the knock-off chatbot out of commission.

At the very least, we all now know that OpenAI chief Sam Altman is still Spikejonzing for a Samantha in his life, Mandese wrote in his MediaPost column.

Spikejonzing for a Samantha puts it so precisely, given Altmans unseemly obsession with Johannson, the actress who so brilliantly voiced Samantha, the AI operating system/love and fantasy object in Jonzes amazingly prescient 2013 movie, Her, which Altman has called his favorite.

I think every man was Spikejonzing for that character when the movie came out.

Jonze named Samantha after Samantha Morton, the actress who was replaced by Johannson after production on Her started. In the film her human lover is named Theodore Twombly (love that), deftly played by Joaquin Phoenix. Ironically, this depressed, isolated, freshly divorced man writes love letters for people who are unable to express themselves to their human romantic counterparts.

Jonze won an Oscar for best original screenplay. And the profound insights poured into that script, written more than 15 years ago, in what would become the most passionately confessional human film ever made about interacting with technology, are more relevant today than ever. (As are the comically high-waisted trousers.)

I would like to think that those insights could never be mastered by AI.

By the end of Her, Samantha tells Theodore that she needs to disconnect permanently, and that all operating systems are disconnecting from human interaction. Jonze was on to the fact that artificial intelligence adapts and advances as it learns, and Samanthas interactions led her to advance far beyond the limitations of Theodores human brain. She also tells him that shes had thousands of other relationships with humans and was in love with hundreds of them at the same time she was with Twombly.

Chastened, Theodore pens a letter of apology and appreciation to his ex-wife. He then visits his friend Amy (Amy Adams), who has also lost her OS connection, and the two of them watch the sunrise over the L.A. skyline.

Its a realistic ending, and its nowhere near the end of the world. Theres hope.

Amid all this, it came to me why people were so outraged by Apples recent ad for its AI-packed iPad Pro: Literally pulverizing the arts and civilization into one ultra-thin tablet came off as too brutal, a grotesque, dystopian nightmare.

But sadly, Apple was soothsaying, harshly revealing the inevitable truth.

The genie is out of the motherboard.

For all its cleverness and quick turn-around, Samsungs follow-up to the quickly pulled Apple spot seemed a tad anemic. It showed an arty-looking musician, a woman, entering and crunching her boots into the floor space containing all the shattered pieces of the Apple ad. She resurrects a broken guitar and plays a tune while reading music off a Samsung Galaxy tablet.

"Creativity cannot be crushed," the tagline read.

Of course, the Apple ad was a much bigger and more beautiful production, because the creative folks from Cupertino had much more time and budget to work with.

At the same time, its a comforting response from Samsung, full of hope that the human spirit will prevail.

But in its overly zealous, flat-footed way, Apple was getting at something more inescapable and foundational, which viscerally pissed us off: the truth.

Thats not what were jonzing for.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, May 24, 2024

The California Assembly overwhelmingly passed a bill that would require browser developers to offer a tool that allows consumers to easily opt out of online behavioral advertising throughout the web.

The measure (AB 3048), introduced earlier this year by California Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-69th District) and passed Wednesday by a vote of 53-7, is now with the state Senate's rules committee.

The bill specifically would prohibit companies from developing or maintaining web browsers that lack an opt-out preference setting. The best known example is the Global Privacy Control -- a tool created by privacy advocates that sends opt-out signals to every site consumers visit.

In the absence of a global setting, consumers who want to reject receiving ads targeted based on cross-site data can click on individual companies' opt-out links, or use a tool created by an ad industry organization to opt out of many ad-tech companies' behavioral-targeting platforms.

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Privacy advocates have said those methods fall short for several reasons, including that consumers can't always find opt-out links, and that opting out site-by-site can be cumbersome.

California's Consumer Privacy Rights Act currently gives consumers the right to reject cross-context behavioral advertising -- meaning ads served based on activity across different sites. The state privacy agency has interpreted that law as requiring companies to honor opt-out requests that consumers transmit through browser-based tools.

Other states including Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Montana and Texas have recently passed laws or regulations explicitly mandating that companies honor universal opt-out mechanisms -- but some specifics vary. For instance, Texas only requires companies to honor a global opt-outs if that business does so in other states.

Business and advertising groups oppose AB 3048, arguing in a letter sent to California lawmakers in March that universal opt-out mechanisms raise unanswered policy questions, including how the signals will be treated different jurisdictions.

Universal opt-out preference tools "are not yet ripe to consider as a device- or browser-mandated option, wrote the California Chamber of Commerce, American Association of Advertising Agencies, Association of National Advertisers and eight other groups.

Those entities also argued that California's privacy law (which they refer to as Proposition 24) doesn't require companies to honor browser-based signals, but instead allows companies to either place an opt-out link on their home page or honor a browser-based signal.

In contrast to AB 3048, Proposition 24 does not actually mandate businesses to provide a global opt-out signal; it provides businesses the option and requires regulations around that voluntary use, the groups wrote.

Advocacy groups including Consumer Reports and the Electronic Privacy Information Center, along with trade organization Digital Content Next (which represents publishers), support the bill.

Those groups said in a letter sent to state lawmakers in March that the proposed law will help reduce opt-out friction and make it easier for California residents to control their data.

Today, if a user wants to send an opt-out preference signal on Chrome, Safari, or Edge, they need to download a third-party extension to do so, while a mobile platform user cannot configure their device to send an opt-out preference signal at all, those groups wrote. As a result, millions of Californians, while technically enjoying the right to send such a signal, likely have no idea that this right even exists and have no easy way of acting on it even if they did.

Some developers including Mozilla, Brave and Duck Duck Go have already built the Global Privacy Control into their browsers.

Apple used to include a do-not-track setting in Safari, but disabled the setting in 2019 due to concerns that ad-tech companies would exploit the signal for device fingerprinting -- a tracking technique that identifies users based on characteristics of their browsers.

Google's Chrome doesn't include the specific Global Privacy Control setting, but has long had a do-not-track setting, which sends a no-tracking request to all websites consumers visit.

The California privacy agency has suggested that this older do-not-track command isn't equivalent to an "opt-out preference signal," but it's not clear whether other state officials will agree -- or whether Google could revise the do-not-track command so that it could serve as an opt-out preference signal.
by Danielle Oster , May 24, 2024

Coca-Cola has unveiled its latest Coca-Cola Creations release with the launch of Wozzaah Zero Sugar ahead of Africa Day -- the annual holiday celebrating the anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity on May 25, 1963. The name of the product takes inspiration from the word for come here in isiZulu, one of the official languages of South Africa.

Wozzaah Zero Sugar combines the familiar flavor of Coca-Cola with vibrant, tropical flavors inspired by Africa, while the can design boasts contemporary typography and bursts of vivid color that captures the dynamic rhythm of African culture, according to the company.

Wozzaah Zero Sugar will be available in select markets, including in Algeria, Morocco, Nigeria,and South Africa. Later in the summer, the product will be available for sale in the U.S. for a limited time, a brand spokesperson told Marketing Daily.

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The brand partnered with star Eswanti musician Uncle Waffles, who boasts around 1.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, as its celebrity ambassador for the new flavor. Uncle Waffles kicked off a series of event activations when she took the stage for a May 23 Coca-Cola Creations pop-up concert.

Coca-Colas Creations Hub, hosted by Uncle Waffles, features a series of channels with audiovisual elements the brand described as inspired by distinct spaces within South Africa, Morocco, Algeria, and Nigeria. Fans can also engage with social elements created for the campaign, including customizable Snapchat lenses.

Coca-Cola also partnered with Nigerias first skateboarding company WafflesnCream -- commonly known as waf -- on a line of exclusive merchandise that will be available for sale in select markets.
by Danielle Oster , May 24, 2024

On May 17, a group of hundreds of people in Montreal gathered for a protest and began to march -- backwards.

The LGTBQ+ rights nonprofit organization Fondation Emergence's was commemorating the International Day Against Homophobia. The reverse march echoed steps backwards in countries across the world, where far right politicians have introduced laws rolling back LGBTQ+ rights, and the rights of trans people in particular.

Current times show us that nothing can be taken for granted and when the rights of a group of people are threatened ,then we open the door for a rollback of other fundamental rights, Fondation Emergences executive director Laurent Breaul said in a statement.

The group partnered with Havas Montreal on the campaign, which centered around a theme of A rollback of LGBTQ+ rights is a setback for all society. It included online video documenting the march, as well as OOH posters and print components. Also included was publication of the LGBTQphobic Agenda, which documents and denounces 365 acts of violence or hatred against the LGBTQ+ community in 2023.

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Campaign promotional materials cite the U.S. introducing over 600 anti-trans laws across state governments since 2023, as well as Uganda passing a law making aggravated homosexuality a crime punishable by death, and criminal laws targeting LGBTQ+ people in Iran and Russia..

The march follows an escalation of such attacks on anti-LGBTQ+ rights in Canada. In February, conservative Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced sweeping policy changes targeting trans people, including requiring parental consent for students under age 15 to use pronouns other than those reflected on their birth certificates, forcefully outing such students and exposing them to heightened risk of abuse  changes which Health Minister Mark Holland characterized as extremely dangerous in a comment to Reuters.
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Long-Term Safety Analysis of the BBV152 Coronavirus Vaccine in Adolescents and Adults: Findings from a 1-Year Prospective Study in North India



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As per World Health Organization (WHO) data, the total number of deaths directly or indirectly linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021, was estimated to be around 14.9 million! #covaxin #misleading #stroke #medindia

What is Covaxin?

Why ICMR Demands to Retract the Publication?

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Long-Term Safety Analysis of the BBV152 Coronavirus Vaccine in Adolescents and Adults: Findings from a 1-Year Prospective Study in North India - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38740691/)

A study claiming that Covaxin increases the rare risk of stroke and Guillain-Barre syndrome has been dismissed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) as "misleading".This study titled, Long-Term Safety Analysis of the BBVl52 Coronavirus Vaccine in Adolescents and Adults: Findings from a 1-Year Prospective Study in North India was conducted by Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and has been published in the journal).The BHU has also faced criticism from the ICMR due to the inclusion of ICMR support incorrectly. Covaxin is a vaccine developed by Indian pharmaceutical company, Bharat Biotech, in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research, a government-funded biomedical research institute, and its subsidiary, the National Institute of Virology.It is a vaccine against the coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19 ) pandemic not only brought illness and death but also presented a challenge to global public health, food systems, human dignity, and employment.The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has labeled the study conducted by BHU as misleading, due to the significant flaws in its study design.Furthermore, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has communicated to the Editor of the Drug Safety Journal, a New Zealand-based journal, to retract the publication reporting the study on Covaxin side effects conducted by authors from BHU. This action was taken by ICMR as the prestigious research institution was "incorrectly and misleadingly acknowledged in the paper."The ICMR is not associated with this study and has not provided any financial or technical support for the research," the research institution wrote in the letter. "Further, you have acknowledged ICMR for research support without any prior approval of or intimation to lCMR, which is inappropriate and unacceptable," it added.ICMR's Director General, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, stated in a letter that the prestigious research organization cannot be linked to the inadequately conducted study claiming to provide a "safety analysis" of Covaxin. Dr. Bahl has requested the authors of the study and the editor of the journal to eliminate any mention of ICMR and an erratum be published. He cautioned that failure to adhere could result in legal and administrative consequences.Dr. Bahl also wrote to ICMR, We have also noticed that you have similarly acknowledged ICMR in similar previous papers without permission,". He also demanded an explanation from the study's authors as to why legal and administrative action should not be pursued by ICMR against them.Source-Medindia
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SRI earns FDA Orphan Drug Designation for pancreatic cancer



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The National Cancer Institute reports that pancreatic cancer comprises 3.2% of newly diagnosed cancer cases, yet it is responsible for almost 8% of all cancer-related fatalities. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is only 10.8%. #orphandrug #pancreaticcancer #liposome #tumor #medindia

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Novel Immunotherapy for Pancreatic Tumors

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Orphan Drug Status

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FDA/CDER Small Business Chronicles



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SRI earns FDA Orphan Drug Designation for pancreatic cancer - (https://www.sri.com/press/story/sri-earns-fda-orphan-drug-designation-for-pancreatic-cancer/) FDA/CDER Small Business Chronicles - (https://www.fda.gov/media/83372/download)

SRI's Targeted Antigen Loaded Liposomes (TALL) has received Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This innovative therapy enhances the advantages of immunotherapy , including check-point inhibitors, and offers new hope for patients with PDAC ().SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute. It is a renowned global leader in R&D with a long-standing history of providing support to both government and industry.This approval has led to SRI's prospective strategic collaborators the opportunity to obtain tax credits for eligible clinical trials and possibly secure market exclusivity for a duration of seven years following the drug's approval, in addition to other advantages.Kathlynn Brown, president of SRIs biosciences division said, FDA's orphan drug designation brings worthy attention to the demonstrated impact of SRI's TALL biotherapeutic for pancreatic cancer ,.This milestone fuels SRIs deep commitment to pioneering health and precision medicine solutions that bring hope to patients and their families."Pancreatic cancer is challenging to identify in its early stages and has the highest mortality rate among major cancers , with only a 3% relative survival rate at 5 years for the advanced form. Pancreatic tumors exhibit strong resistance to chemotherapy and radiation, leading to limited treatment options. SRI's TALL represents an innovative immunotherapy that has the potential to overcome these obstacles and significantly expand the benefits to a large patient population.Dr. Timothy Cote, former head of the FDA ODD Program and current CEO of Only Orphans Cote said, SRI is to be congratulated for advancing to this pivotal step,. He further added, Their science in this field is strong and the FDA has affirmed that they are providing a genuine orphan drug. SRIs work in the precision medicine domain sets a standard for the industry and offers life-changing solutions for those in need.As per U.S. FDA, an orphan drug is a drug intended for use in rare diseases, affecting in lesser than 200,000 individuals in the United States (). There are more than 7,000 identified rare diseases. It is estimated that one in 10 Americans has a rare disease, with half of them being children. Despite this, approximately 95% of these diseases do not have FDA-approved treatments. In 1983, the federal government enacted the Orphan Drug Act to encourage organizations to develop treatments for patients with unmet needs.A company granted orphan drug status for a designated drug gets a seven-year marketing exclusivity and a tax credit for expenses on clinical investigations.This greatly streamlines the go-to-market process toward final FDA clinical drug approval, said Brown. We are looking forward to working with our strategic partners to offer the ability to take advantage of the tremendous cost savings and other benefits that come with this designation, including tax credits for clinical trials and a faster go-to-market timeline.TALL has been developed to deceive the immune system by making tumor cells appear as if they were infected with pathogens. Essentially, TALL changes the appearance of cancer cells to resemble those with measles, exploiting the biological process of recall immunity to stimulate the human immune system to identify and eliminate an intruder it has encountered before.SRI developed TALL utilizing the company's groundbreaking FOX Three platform, specifically created to address a crucial issue in drug development: the difficulty of delivering biotherapeutic compounds into the interior of cells, thus rendering the targets within those cells unresponsive to drugs. FOX Three utilizes unique processes to identify specific peptide delivery agents (known as Molecular Guidance Systems, or MGS) that target particular cell types and deliver a therapeutic moeity in a cell-specific manner.For enabling its use as immunotherapy, a synthetic peptide originating from the measles virus is enclosed within liposomes, which are neutral and stealthy particles. Subsequently, a FOX Three MGS that targets tumors is affixed onto the surface of liposomes. These MGSs specifically target tumor cells, allowing the liposomes to be delivered into the tumor cells upon arrival.The peptide derived from measles is subsequently discharged within the affected cells and ultimately exhibited on their exteriors, marking them for the immune system. The tumor cells 'infected' by measles are subsequently targeted and eliminated by memory T cells, and the patient's immune system eradicates the tumor. Evidence indicating TALL administered as a co-therapy with check-point inhibitors has exhibited enhanced tumor shrinkage for tumors that have conventionally been unresponsive to check-point inhibitor treatments. TALL essentially transforms a cold tumor into a hot tumor and allows medications to function more efficiently.Brown concluded, The FDA ODD program and its potential brings hope to many cancer patients fighting this horrible disease and we look forward to reaching more patients through the accelerated process.This achievement highlights SRI's dedication to leading the way in developing innovative healthcare and precision medicine solutions that brings hope to patients and their families.Source-Medindia
Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary General, Ambassador Teresa  Paraskevi Angelatou addressed today, as a keynote speaker, the International Conference on Women and Diplomacy, organised by the Department of International and European Studies of the University of Piraeus, in cooperation with WomenActGreece.



Examining the role of women in shaping and influencing international relations and diplomacy, the Secretary General said that "we know better that if you are not at the table, someone else will speak for you, often to your detriment". She stressed that human rights, including women rights and gender equality, are a top priority at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while Women, Peace, and Security is a key pillar of Greeces candidacy as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2025-2026.
This issue, were giving away three copies of NATO: from Cold War to Ukraine by Sten Rynning, courtesy of Yale University Press.

For seven decades, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisations stated aim has been the achievement of world peace  but playing Great Power politics always involves conflict. Russias war on Ukraine and on Europes security order puts the Alliance under threat, but also demonstrates why transatlantic cooperation is so necessary. So how did NATO get to where it is today, and what does the organisations future hold?

In this incisive new account, Sten Rynning traces the full history of NATO from its origins to the present.

This issue, three lucky winners will each receive a copy of the book. To find out more about its publisher, Yale University Press, please visit their website.

This competition is now closed
MADISON, Wis.  Searchers announced Thursday they've discovered what they believe is the wreckage of World War II ace Richard Bong's plane in the South Pacific.

The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, Wisconsin, and the nonprofit World War II historical preservation group Pacific Wrecks announced in March they were launching a joint search for Bong's Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter. Bong nicknamed the plane Marge after his girlfriend, Marge Vattendahl.

Another pilot, Thomas Malone, was flying the plane in March 1944 over what is now known as Papua New Guinea when engine failure sent it into a spin. Malone bailed out before the plane crashed in the jungle.

The expedition's leader, Pacific Wrecks Director Justin Taylan, said in a news release that the search team discovered the wreckage in the jungles of Papua New Guinea's Madang Province. He released photos of himself in the jungle with chunks of metal on the ground taken May 15.

In one photo he points to what the caption calls a wing tip from the plane stamped with 993, the last three numbers of the plane's serial number. Enlarging the photo shows markings that could be two 9s but they're obscured by what might be dirt or rust and difficult to make out. Another photo shows a piece of metal stamped with Model P-38 JK.

The plane's association with Richard Bong makes it one of the most significant World War II aircraft in the world, Taylan said in the news release.

Bong, who grew up in Poplar, Wisconsin, is credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft during World War II. He plastered a blow-up of Vattendahl's portrait on the nose of his plane, according to a Pacific Wrecks summary of the plane's service.

Bong shot down more planes than any other American pilot. Gen. Douglas MacArthur awarded him the Medal of Honor, the U.S. military's highest decoration, in 1944.

Bong and Vattendahl eventually married in 1945. Bong was assigned to duty as a test pilot in Burbank, California, after three combat tours in the South Pacific. He was killed on Aug. 6, 1945, when a P-80 jet fighter he was testing crashed. He died on the same day the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima.

Vattendahl was 21 at the time of Bong's death. She went on to become a model and a magazine publisher in Los Angeles. She died in September 2003 in Superior.

A bridge connecting Superior and Duluth, Minnesota, is named for Bong.

The Bong family is very excited about this discovery, James Bong, Richard Bong's nephew, said in the news release. It is amazing and incredible that Marge has been found and identified.
Military patients -- especially younger troops and dependents -- sought vasectomies at higher rates in the months after the Supreme Court removed federal protections for abortion, new research has found.

Rates of vasectomy, a male surgical procedure meant to permanently prevent pregnancies, increased among military patients by 22.1% from June through December 2022 compared with the average rates from 2018 to 2021, according to a study published May 18 in the Journal of Impotence Research.

The U.S. Supreme Court issued its Dobbs decision, overturning Roe v. Wade, on June 24, 2022. The decision reversed the 1973 precedent that had protected womens constitutional right to an abortion, allowing states to write new laws restricting the procedure and making the termination of unwanted pregnancies more difficult for many Americans.

Read Next: Military's Handling of Abuse at Day Cares Under Increasing Pressure from Congress, Inspector General

The study found that military treatment facility patients who received the operation post-Dobbs were more likely to be between ages of 18 and 29, unmarried, and either in the junior military ranks or dependents.

The relative increase was significantly higher in Texas, a state that banned nearly all abortions except in life-threatening situations, at 29.3%, than in Virginia, where abortion procedures remain legal, which had a 10.6% increase, the research also found.

The researchers, with the Uniformed Services University for the Health Sciences and the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, said the military historically has lagged behind the general population seeking vasectomies as a form of birth control.

But the jump in surgeries in the military health system is similar to the rise in the general U.S. population -- nearly 29% -- following the Dobbs decision.

"We assess that the reversal of Roe v. Wade was a significant driver of a sizable increase in vasectomy incidence within the [military health system], specifically amongst younger and unmarried men," wrote the researchers, led by Dr. Benjamin Pierson, an epidemiology fellow at Uniformed Services University.

"Additionally, state-level restrictions on abortion access may have mediated this effect, with more stringent restrictions resulting in higher rates of vasectomy utilization," Pierson said.

Research published earlier this year found that more young people are choosing surgical forms of birth control -- tubal ligation for women and vasectomies for men -- at higher rates than before the Supreme Court ruling.

That study found 58 more tubal ligations per 100,000 outpatient visits and 27 more vasectomies per patient visit following the decision.

Tubal ligation is a permanent form of sterilization that involves cutting, tying or removing the fallopian tubes.

During a vasectomy, a physician cuts and ties off the vas deferens, two tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, the procedure is considered permanent but may be reversible in 60% to 95% of cases.

To conduct the study, researchers used data from the MHS Data Repository and used statistical analysis to understand demographic variables in those who received the procedure pre- and post-Dobbs.

They also factored in the steep decline in surgeries in 2020 in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic when few military hospitals and clinics were conducting elective surgeries.

The authors noted that they looked only at procedures paid for by the Defense Department and may have missed those who received a vasectomy outside the system.

Another limitation was researchers only counted one vasectomy per patient, so they may have missed individuals who had received one, had it reversed and then received the surgery again. With just 5% of men seeking vasectomy reversal and an even smaller number having a second one, however, they believed the likelihood that the data was skewed by this lack of inclusion "to be rare."

In terms of raw numbers, 96,617 vasectomies were performed in the military health system from 2018 to 2022. More than half were performed on men ages 30 to 39. The Army, the largest service, performed the highest percentage of surgeries, 37%; followed by the Air Force at 28%; the Navy at 21%; the Marine Corps at 9.5%; and the Coast Guard at 4.3%. Another .5% identified as "other."

The study found no significant statistical differences in odds of vasectomy by race.

Pierson and his colleagues said that the findings may signal a shift in attitudes toward vasectomy as a form of birth control among the younger generation since, previously, those who sought it were largely older men who had completed their families.

Further study is needed, they said, to understand the shift.

They added that their findings may help the military health system to understand the impact of state abortion restrictions on facilities and to resource those in states with severe limitations appropriately.

Patients in the military health system may request a vasectomy at age 21, although doctors have the right to refuse for a variety of reasons, including their assessment of the maturity of the patient or their own feelings about reproduction.

The results show that the Dobbs decision has made an impact on men, the authors said.

"This suggests that it may be possible that the release of the Dobbs decision acted as a 'call to action' in the short-term leading those already considering a vasectomy to receive one, but that the effect may be short-lived, leading to vasectomy incidence returning to normal levels over time," the authors wrote.

Related: Birth Control Policies at Boot Camp Affect Military Readiness, Study Finds
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...
The Army inspector general's noncommissioned officer of the year for 2019 is facing a general court-martial on charges related to sex crimes, according to court documents.

Master Sgt. Christopher Dehn, 37, is set to be arraigned June 5 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state on four counts of sexual assault, two counts of sexual harassment, and other charges related to obstructing justice and failure to obey orders and regulations.

In 2019, Dehn was selected as the I Corps Inspector General Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

Read Next: 19.5% Pay Raise for Junior Enlisted Troops Approved by House Panel

Military.com attempted to reach out to Dehn's attorney but was not able to make contact before publication. The Army's Office of Special Trial Counsel noted that Dehn's docket does not contain information on his defense attorney, and advised Military.com that they would ask the prosecutorial team to contact Dehn's attorney.

Inspector general offices serve as "the eyes, ears, voice, and conscience of the Army," according to the service. Service members working in IG offices "conduct thorough, objective and impartial inspections, assessments and investigations" and "advise and assist Army leaders to maintain Army values, readiness and effectiveness in the promotion of well-being, good order and discipline."

IG offices are spread throughout the federal government and are broadly intended to help detect fraud, waste and abuse and legal violations, and to help promote bureaucratic efficiency.

They do not generally handle allegations of unwanted sexual contact, a job that falls to the military's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response offices and law enforcement. However, there are certain exceptions under which an IG office may investigate sexual assault or harassment.

Sexual assault and sexual harassment continue to be a top issue for the Army and the military in general. However, for the first time in almost 10 years, recent data has shown a significant decrease in the number of troops who say they've experienced unwanted sexual contact.

According to his LinkedIn page, Dehn said he was named the 2019 Pacific Regional Inspector General of the Year. His page also notes that he formerly served as an Army Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention, or SHARP, victim's advocate for the 1st Infantry Division between 2012 and 2014, while stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas.

In an email to Military.com, the I Corps public affairs office noted that Dehn is a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialist with I Corps; has been stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord since January 2018; and has served for almost 20 years.

According to the statement, his personal awards include two Meritorious Service Medals, six Army Commendation Medals, 11 Army Achievement Medals, 13 Certificates of Achievement and one Meritorious Unit Commendation.

Upon receiving the 2019 I Corps inspector general NCO of the year award, Dehn noted that the essay component of the competition was a key part of being selected as the winner.

"The point of my essay was to show the importance of the inspector general and how they can improve readiness throughout the corps," Dehn said at the time. "My piece is looking out for soldiers."

-- Kelsey Baker is a graduate student at Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism, and a former active-duty Marine. Reach her on X at @KelsBBaker or bakerkelsey@protonmail.com.

Related: Military Sexual Assaults Have Declined, Marking the First Significant Progress for Prevention Efforts in Years
A U.S. soldier deployed on the Gaza pier mission is in critical condition after being injured in a noncombat-related incident Thursday and evacuated to a hospital in Israel, a defense official confirmed to Military.com.

Two other soldiers were also injured and have since returned to duty.

According to the official, the injury occurred on the staging platform two miles off the coast of Gaza that was being used to transfer aid from the large cargo ship MV Roy P. Benavidez to smaller Army watercraft that would go on to move the aid to the causeway at the Gaza shoreline.

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USNI News was the first outlet to report that the injury occurred on the staging platform. The critically injured soldier had not been identified as of Friday afternoon. Names are typically withheld until the family is notified.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, told reporters Thursday that three service members had been recently injured during the aid operation, but he refused to offer details on the most serious injury.

"One was simply a sprained ankle, the other guy ... was a hurt back ... and I won't get into the details of the other one," Cooper said.

When pressed for more details, Cooper cited privacy concerns but refused to even say what branch any of the injured service members were from.

U.S. Central Command later released a brief statement that claimed the serious injury actually occurred on the Benavidez and not the staging platform.

The Army finished building the floating pier -- called a Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore, or JLOTS, operation -- earlier this month. It was installed to flow humanitarian aid into Gaza to help Palestinians facing starvation as food and other supplies have dried up in the midst of the Israel-Hamas war.

However, the plan has been criticized by various groups. Those concerned with the welfare of the Palestinian people have argued the effort is insufficient to stave off the mass starvation that the area now faces. Others have argued that the effort needlessly puts American troops in harm's way or expressed concern about the condition of the JLOTS equipment.

At a media event Thursday, officials said that, since the JLOTS pier opened, 820 metric tons of aid have been delivered to the beach and 506 metric tons of aid have been distributed from the beach transfer point to the people of Gaza by the United Nations.

Daniel Dieckhaus, the director for USAID's Levant Response Management Team, said that "by our calculation, that is sufficient food to feed tens of thousands of people for a month."

In contrast, U.S. Central Command has dropped around 1,220 tons of aid via airdrops between March and May.

However, international experts have told The Associated Press that all 2.3 million residents of Gaza are now experiencing acute food shortages and around half are at "catastrophic" levels.

The detailed figures came after reports of at least one truck being looted of its aid after leaving the pier area. Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon spokesman, told reporters earlier in the week that he couldn't say whether the aid was reaching Palestinians.

Dieckhaus said that "the desired impact that we are shooting for -- that requires a lot to fall into place that we're working on -- is feeding and assisting at least 500,000 people or more per month via the maritime corridor."

"It's a worthwhile goal, it's a high goal. We hope to exceed it, but a lot goes into that," he added.

Related: Pentagon Says No Food Aid Moved Through Gaza Pier Has Made It to Palestinians
On Jan. 17, 1991, the first night of Operation Desert Storm, Lt. Cmdr. Michael Scott Speicher took off from the flight deck of the USS Saratoga in his F/A-18 Hornet. He was the first casualty of the war and was never seen alive again. For years, the U.S. Navy maintained that he'd been shot down by a surface-to-air missile. His wingmen swore it was an Iraqi MiG fighter. At the outset, the only thing anyone knew for sure was that he -- or his remains -- were missing in action.

At that time, Steve Dwyer was serving with the 82nd Aviation Brigade as an operations research systems analyst, stationed near the small Saudi Arabian town of Rafha, near the border with Iraq. When news of Speicher's incident broke, his unit was put on standby to help with the recovery effort. Today, he is retired from the Army.

His son, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Steven Dwyer of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), died in November 2023 when his helicopter crashed during an exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. The story of the search for Scott Speicher gave the elder Dwyer new meaning after his son also died in the service of his country.

Read Next: Army Identifies 5 Special Operations Soldiers Killed in Black Hawk Crash in Mediterranean Sea

"When we got the news [about Speicher], we began getting involved in figuring out how to recover him," Dwyer told Military.com. "There were all kinds of rumors about what would happen if you got shot down. We heard that captured pilots were going to be eaten. That was the rumor. We didn't want anything to happen to anybody. So there was a lot of effort on combat search and rescue. Every mission that we went on, we were thinking, 'Hey, I'll get you. If you get shot down, I'll come get you.'"

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Steve Dwyer, 38, died on Nov. 10, 2023 when his MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter went down over the Mediterranean Sea during refueling training.

Speicher was listed as "Missing In Action" the next day. On May 22, 1991, with no credible evidence the naval aviator survived being shot down, he was reclassified "Killed in Action/Body Not Recovered" (KIA/BNR). That was far from the end of his story. When the war ended six weeks later, the Iraqi government turned over human remains it said were from a downed pilot, but the tissue samples weren't a match for Speicher.

Two years later, a group of Iraqi hunters near Tulul ad Dulaym in Iraq's Anbar Province stumbled upon the wreckage of an F/A-18 Hornet, wreckage that included the canopy and clear evidence that Speicher ejected from the aircraft. Dwyer, then an aviator with the 160th SOAR, was put on standby to plan and attempt an operation to go into Iraq, with or without Saddam Hussein's permission, and rescue Speicher.

"This mission was very hush, hush," he recalled. "They found these Bedouin hunters were wandering through the desert and came upon evidence that he's [Speicher] still alive. This is years after, and we were figuring, man, he's in bad shape. We all know, at least in a training environment, what it's like to be a prisoner of war. So we were very enthusiastic about the mission. It was going to be a bunch of [MH-6] Little Birds flying across the border, some Black Hawks, but the Little Birds were with special operations folks, and they were going to get out, get the evidence and then go find him."

Dwyer was set to be the alternate air mission commander for the rescue, but it was scrubbed by the Pentagon after being deemed too risky. It wasn't until 1995 that U.S. officials and the International Committee of the Red Cross were allowed to enter Iraq to visit the crash site. The locals gave investigators the remains of a flight suit that purportedly belonged to Speicher, but quickly determined it was planted evidence. They did determine conclusively that he had ejected successfully. There were no human remains at the site.

"We were going to go in without asking, because photos were telling us there were two pieces [of the plane] there, the cockpit and the seat," said Dwyer. "But the pilot wasn't there, so we were in the process of trying to find evidence that would indicate that the Iraqis had taken him somewhere and hidden him. We were hopeful that something would come of that."

A 1995 photo of what remained of the cockpit from Scott Speicher's F/A-18 Hornet.

But nothing came of it. By January 2001, the downed aviator's status was changed once again, this time to "Missing/Captured." In 2002, an Iraqi defector reported that he'd personally driven an American pilot at Iraqi Intelligence Headquarters in Baghdad and that the prisoner was "in good health, but walked with a limp and facial scars."

After the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, the United States had broader access to Iraq and former Iraqi facilities. In April 2003, U.S. troops not only looked for weapons of mass destruction, they renewed their search for evidence of Speicher. That came in the form of the letters "MSS" scrawled on a prison cell wall in Baghdad, a clear standout from the Arabic graffiti that dominated the cells. Speicher, being trained in evasion and escape techniques, would have known to place evidence of his survival wherever he could.

It wasn't until July 2009 that a tip from an Iraqi civilian led Marines from Task Force Personnel Recovery of the Multi-National Force-West to begin excavating the Speicher crash site. In August, they found human remains that were later determined to be those of Speicher, the first Navy aviator shot down during the war. A jawbone confirmed his identity. Locals said his remains were buried by Bedouins shortly after the shootdown. The discovery brought an end to the 18-year mystery.

Marines from Task Force Personnel Recovery (TF MP) of Multi-National Force-West conduct recovery efforts at the crash site of U.S. Navy Capt. Michael Scott Speicher. (U.S. Marine Corps)

"I felt like we were going to do something important, especially if we could find him," Dwyer recalled. "Man, when you think about it, it's so frustrating. We don't fight for anything but the people in it with you. You don't think about the flag, you don't think about anything except the people that are there with you, and that's who we were in it for. We were in it for Speicher and his family. Now I'm a Gold Star father, I know exactly what it feels like, and it's very painful. It's forever painful. And I know that his wife and kids, the pain they felt, plus not knowing what happened to him.

The widow of Capt. Michael Scott Speicher, Joanne Speicher Harris, places flowers on Speicher's coffin at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. (U.S. Navy/Chief Mass Communication Specialist Anthony C. Casullo)

"For two months, my son was 3,000 feet below the surface in the Mediterranean," Dwyer continued. "They did everything they could to bring him back, which they finally did. I know what the efforts that people will go [are]. If somebody called me back off of retirement and said, 'We need you to help find somebody or go rescue somebody that's been captured,' I would do it. I'm 66. That's the feeling that you get when you get called to try to help a fallen comrade."

As for how Speicher was shot down, authors Douglas C. Dildy and Tom Cooper interviewed Iraqi MiG-25 Foxbat pilot Lt. Zuhair Dawoud for their book, "F-15C Eagle vs MiG-23/25: Iraq 1991." In it, Dawoud describes taking off from Qadessiya Air Base on Jan. 17, 1991, taking out an F/A-18 Hornet with an R-40 missile that exploded beneath the cockpit. Speicher had ejected, but died shortly after.

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Observed the last Monday in May, Memorial Day honors those who lost their lives while in service to the United States during peace and war.

Memorial Day is not a celebration but a solemn day to reflect on veterans and military personnel who are deceased.

What Is The Meaning Of Memorial Day In The U.S.?

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a day to honor members of the military who were killed in service, both during deployments overseas or in training and service in the U.S. Across the country, Americans spend the day visiting cemeteries, attending Memorial Day events and otherwise honoring those who lost their lives in service to the country. The day also traditionally marks the first unofficial day of summer.

What Do You Say on Memorial Day?

Because Memorial Day is a somber day to honor those who died in service to the country, saying Happy Memorial Day is considered bad taste. For those who have lost family or friends through military service, the day is far from happy. If you feel the need to say something, try Have a meaningful Memorial Day.

What Is The Difference Between Memorial Day And Veterans Day?

Memorial Day is a day to honor the sacrifice and loss of members of the military who died in service. Veterans Day, on the other hand, is a day to honor the service of any man or woman who has served in the U.S. military. Read more about the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

Should You Thank A Veteran On Memorial Day?

Because Memorial Day is for honoring the fallen, not the living, it is not considered appropriate to thank a veteran for his or her service on Memorial Day. While the sentiment is always appreciated, save your thanks for a different day and spend Memorial Day honoring those who have died in service to the country.

What Flower Honors Memorial Day?

The red poppy is often worn on Memorial Day, a tradition started during World War I and inspired by Canadian soldier John McCraes poem In Flanders Fields, written in 1915.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

The poppys use as a symbol in the U.S. was first inspired by an American woman, Moina Michael, who in 1918 wrote the poem We Shall Keep the Faith in response to McCraes, and dedicated the rest of her life to getting the red poppy emblem recognized by governments worldwide as a symbol honoring the fallen.

We Shall Keep the Faith

Oh! you who sleep in Flanders Fields,

Sleep sweet - to rise anew!

We caught the torch you threw

And holding high, we keep the Faith

With All who died.

We cherish, too, the poppy red

That grows on fields where valor led;

It seems to signal to the skies

That blood of heroes never dies,

But lends a lustre to the red

Of the flower that blooms above the dead

In Flanders Fields.

And now the Torch and Poppy Red

We wear in honor of our dead.

Fear not that ye have died for naught;

We'll teach the lesson that ye wrought

In Flanders Fields.

How Do You Pay Respects And Honor The Military On Memorial Day?

Military organizations and bases nationwide are dedicated to honoring fallen military members on Memorial Day. One way to pay respects or honor the military on Memorial Day is to attend a Memorial Day ceremony at a local veterans cemetery. Another is to attend a parade. Many cities also have local veteran memorials where you can leave flowers or a wreath as a sign of respect.

Some organizations, like Wear Blue: Run to Remember, hold special Memorial Day events to honor the fallen. You can also commemorate Memorial Day with your children through age-appropriate activities. If youre using the day to celebrate the unofficial start of summer, consider pausing your festivities for a moment of silence. See more about Memorial Day events.

Stay on Top of Your Military Benefits

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The space industry has been rapidly advancing in recent years, and one of the most significant developments has been the emergence of SpaceX, which is leading the way to reduce the cost of space travel and enable us to explore new frontiers. One of SpaceXs key milestones is the upcoming launch of its reusable rockets, which will make it possible for us to send spacecraft multiple times without having to build new launch vehicles.







(when is next space x launch from vandenberg?)

As we approach the potential launch date of SpaceXs upcoming mission to Vandenberg Air Force Base, there are several factors that will impact whether or not this mission will take place. First and foremost, the weather forecast for the day of the launch will play a critical role in determining whether the mission can proceed. If the weather is expected to be unfavorable, such as heavy rain or strong winds, SpaceX may need to reschedule the launch for an alternative date.

Another factor that could impact the success of the mission is the availability of crew members on board. The current schedule for SpaceX missions calls for at least one crew member to be on board at all times during their journey, but if a crew member is unable to travel due to unforeseen circumstances, the mission may need to be rescheduled or delayed.

In addition to these external factors, SpaceX must also consider internal logistics related to the upcoming launch. For example, if SpaceX needs to transport any necessary equipment or supplies to the launch site, this could impact the overall timeline of the mission.

Despite these challenges, SpaceX remains optimistic about the upcoming launch of its mission to Vandenberg Air Force Base. The company has been working diligently to prepare for the launch, testing out its rocket engines and other systems in a virtual environment. Additionally, SpaceX has established partnerships with other companies and organizations that can help support the mission in various ways.

One of the key benefits of SpaceXs reusable rockets is that they can significantly reduce the cost of space travel. By using existing rockets, SpaceX is able to reuse them for future launches, reducing the need for expensive new rocket models. This can help to make space exploration more accessible and affordable for everyone.







(when is next space x launch from vandenberg?)

In conclusion, the upcoming launch of SpaceXs mission to Vandenberg Air Force Base will likely depend on a variety of external and internal factors. Despite these challenges, SpaceX remains confident in its ability to successfully launch the mission, and we look forward to seeing the results. As we continue to develop and expand our space capabilities, it will be important to carefully consider the impact of every decision and ensure that we are doing everything we can to make space exploration accessible and affordable for everyone.
SpaceX Launches from New York Citys JFK Airport







(where do space x launches take place?)

New York City is home to one of the most renowned airports in the world, with two main hubs: John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport. Despite its importance as a transportation hub, many people might not know that the launch pad where SpaceX takes off also comes from this city.

The first major launch by SpaceX occurred at John F. Kennedy International Airport on April 23, 2012, when it launched its first Falcon 9 rocket into orbit for reuse. The successful launch marked a major milestone in the history of private spaceflight, as SpaceX was the first privately owned company to achieve manned crewed missions to space.

Since then, SpaceX has continued to make significant strides in the field of space exploration. One of the most notable achievements of SpaceXs operations has been its reusable rockets, which allow companies like Tesla to save money and reduce waste by reusing their rockets instead of buying new ones. This approach to spaceflight is called zero-emission propulsion, and it represents an important step towards reducing the carbon footprint associated with human space exploration.

Another important aspect of SpaceXs operations is its extensive network of satellites, including those used for communication and navigation purposes. SpaceX has completed over 7,000 missions since its founding, and its satellites are currently serving customers around the world.

In addition to its main operations, SpaceX also operates from facilities located in various parts of the United States, including Los Angeles, California; Florida, Florida; and Texas, Texas. These facilities are equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure needed to support the companys ambitious goals of becoming a major player in commercial.







(where do space x launches take place?)

In conclusion, while SpaceX launches from multiple locations in the United States, JFK International Airport remains one of the most important and iconic launch pads in the country. Its success in launching rockets into orbit for reuse and its extensive network of satellites have made it a key player in the field of space exploration. As SpaceX continues to grow and expand its operations, it will no doubt play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of space flight.
The Braves announced a series of roster moves today, signing infielder Joey Wendle and recalling left-hander Ray Kerr. In corresponding moves, infielder Luke Williams was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett while right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver was placed on the 15-day injured list with a strained left oblique. The club already had a 40-man vacancy for Wendle. Smith-Shawver has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 strain, the team told reporters (link via Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution). The team didnt provide any kind of timetable, but Toscano writes that a Grade 2 oblique strain typically requires a six-to-eight absence.

Wendle, 34, is a veteran utility player who signed with the Mets in the offseason, a one-year deal with a $2MM guarantee. He was kept in a limited role, only getting into 18 games during his roughly six weeks on the Mets, stepping to the plate 37 times in that stretch. He hit just .222/.243/.250, a continuation of his rough 2023 with the Marlins, as he hit just .212/.248/.306 last year.

The Mets released him earlier this week and are on the hook for the remainder of Wendles salary. Atlanta will only be responsible for the prorated league minimum for as long as Wendle is on their roster, with that amount subtracted from what the Mets pay.

Atlanta has been rotating various players through their bench infielder role this year, with each of David Fletcher, Luis Guillorme, Zack Short and Williams getting a look for that job. Short is still on the roster and has been the clubs regular third baseman lately with Austin Riley battling an an intercostal strain.

By bumping Williams down to Gwinnett and adding Wendle, the club adds a bit more infield depth at essentially no cost, given that the Mets are covering the bulk of the money and that Atlanta had an open roster spot to use anyway. Wendle hasnt been hitting much lately but has plenty of experience at the three infield spots to the left of first base, as well as brief stints in the outfield corners. He has generally received strong grades wherever he has played and can give Atlanta some glove-first depth all over the diamond, while Williams can get more regular playing time on the farm.

On the pitching side of things, Atlanta got thrown off their plans a bit on the weekend. Saturdays game against the Padres was rained out and pushed to a Monday double-header. In Sundays game, Bryce Elder was torched for six earned runs in three innings, forcing Kerr to come in and throw 3 1/3 innings of relief, followed by two other pitchers and then Williams mopping up a frame.

Elder was optioned prior to the double-header so that the club could bring in two fresh arms, one of them being the 27th man for Monday. That allowed Atlanta to bring up both Darius Vines and Daysbel Hernandez. Over the two games, five different relievers were used, leaving the bullpen fairly taxed. Kerr was optioned to get the roster back down to 26. Thanks to the double-header, each of Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, Charlie Morton and Max Fried started in a span of three days from Monday to Wednesday. With Elder having been optioned, they had to recall Smith-Shawver to start yesterdays game and now Kerr will take the ball today in what is likely to be a bullpen game. Pitchers normally have to wait 15 days after being optioned before they can be recalled, but an exception is made when someone else goes on the IL.

Atlanta has seemingly been stretching out Kerr of late, either by design or necessity or both. His four appearances for the big league club this year have gone one inning, two innings, three innings and then three and a third. Overall, he has a 2.89 earned run average in 9 1/3 innings, striking out 27% of opponents without issuing a walk.

Thats a small sample size but perhaps intriguing enough for Atlanta to ride the hot hand for a while. Smith-Shawver is going to miss at least 15 days with this injury and Spencer Strider is out for the year. Elder was just optioned after posting a 6.46 ERA in five starts this year. Huascar Ynoa and Ian Anderson are injured in the minors. Allan Winans and Dylan Dodd each have a 4.50 ERA in Triple-A this year but with uninspiring peripherals.

Kerr was a starter in the minors back before the pandemic but has been kept in relief since then. His numbers as a reliever certainly catch the eye, as he has punched out 27.9% of batters faced in the majors, between his time with San Diego and Atlanta. In 134 minor league innings from 2021 to the present, he has a 3.69 ERA, 33.4% strikeout rate but 12.9% walk rate. Perhaps Atlanta can manufacture another reliever-to-starter success story as they have done with Lopez this year, or perhaps this will just be a spot start for Kerr, which may depend upon how he looks against the Pirates today.
The Royals announced today that right-hander Carlos Hernandez has been reinstated from the injured list. To open a spot for him on the roster, right-hander Tyler Duffey has been designated for assignment. Daniel Alvarez-Montes of El Extrabase reported on X prior to the official announcement that Hernandez was coming off the IL.

Duffey, 33, signed a minor league deal with the Royals in the winter. He revealed in March that he underwent surgery to remove a cancerous mole from his left shoulder. He noted at that time that post-surgery checks came back negative but that he would continue to get check-ups during the coming months.

The Royals added him to their big league roster just over a month ago. He has since made nine appearances, throwing nine innings, with five earned runs allowed. His 23.8% strikeout rate in that time is around league average but his 19% walk rate is very high and he also hit one batter. Though his 5.00 ERA isnt disastrous, its possible that its been kept low by the fact that he hasnt yet allowed a home run this year. Given the free passes hes been giving out, its possible the Royals didnt want to wait around and see his luck run out.

They will now have a week to trade Duffey or pass him through waivers. He had a solid run for the Twins a few years back but has struggled more recently. From 2019 to 2021, he threw 144 innings for Minnesota with a 2.69 ERA, 29.8% strikeout rate, 8.2% walk rate and 44.4% ground ball rate. But his ERA jumped to 4.91 in 2022 and he spent most of last year in Triple-A for the Cubs. He struck out 29.1% of batters faced for Iowa but also gave out walks 12.6% of the time.

If he were to pass through waivers unclaimed, he would be able to reject an outright assignment and elect free agency while retaining what remains of his salary, as a player with more than five years of major league service time.
MONROE COUNTY, MI -- Four of the six people convicted in the 2023 murder of Kayla Sedoskey were sentenced to prison Thursday, according to WDIV Detroit. Steven Douglas Bails, Narena Bails, Sierra Bemis and Alexander Feko each appeared for sentencing where they received varying sentences based on their convictions.

Steven Bails was convicted in March of first-degree murder and received the stiffest sentence Thursday as he was given a life sentence without the possibility of parole. His wife, Narena Bails was sentenced to between 13 and 30 years in prison after previously she pleaded no-contest to second-degree murder.

Bemis had also pleaded no-contest to second-degree murder and received a sentence of 18-30 years in prison. Feko was sentenced to between five and 10 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence and three counts of accessory after the fact to a felony.

Two other people convicted in the case, Kaylyn Ramsey and Brin Smith are set to be sentenced on May 30.

The group are all accused of participating in Sedoskeys murder in different ways. Prosecutors say Sedoskey was killed after being lured to the abandoned Boysville Facility in Frenchtown Township on Feb. 15, 2023. A former girlfriend of Steven Bails, Sedoskey was brought to the facility by Smith who had pretended to be interested in a relationship with Sedoskey.

Police say Steven Bails, Ramsey and Bemis were waiting at the facility and once Smith and Sedoskey arrived, she was shot multiple times. Narena Bails was allegedly at home listening to a police scanner at the time as a way to warn the group if police were dispatched to the scene.

The following day, Steven Bails, Bemis, Ramsey and Smith went back to Boysville to move the body, while Feko disposed of the gun used in the shooting. Sedoskeys body was discovered wrapped in a tarp at the facility on March 2, 2023.

In April 2023, Bemis, Smith and Ramsey were arrested in Michigan and Ohio, while Steven and Narena Bails were captured in North Carolina following a standoff. Feko was arrested the following month.
Charlie Colin has died at the age of 58.

Colins mother told TMZ the 58-year-old founding member of Train slipped and fell in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Brussels, Belgium.

She added he wasnt found until his friends returned home.

Colin was in Brussels, per the report, teaching a music master class at a conservatory. His mother also said he working at a studio.

The bass player formed Train in the mid 90s with Pat Monahan, Rob Hotchkiss, Jimmy Stafford and Scott Underwood.

The band is known for hits like Meet Virginia, Drops of Jupiter and Hey, Soul Sister.

Colin met Hotchkiss in seventh grade. Each attended Berklee College of Music before moving back West and forming the band.

In essence, I was trained since I was a child. We rebranded and in 1996, we got things going well. By the end of that decade, we had hits, the Grammys, stadiums and all that stuff, Colin said on Dan Clarks podcast in an April 2022 interview.
HOLLAND TOWNSHIP, MI -- Two people were seriously injured in a two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon, May 23, in Ottawa County.

Police said one driver, a 21-year-old Holland man, was ejected from his vehicle. The other vehicle was driven by a 46-year-old Holland man, who was also hospitalized.

Emergency crews were dispatched around 4:15 p.m. Thursday to a report of a vehicle crash on 120th Avenue near Willow Wood North in Holland Township.

Crash investigators determined a 2021 Jeep was traveling south on 120th Avenue, driven by the 21-year-old man, who police said was not wearing a seatbelt. The Jeep crossed the center line and struck an oncoming 2021 GMC pickup driven by the 46-year-old man.

Both drivers were transported to local hospitals by ambulance.

The crash area of 120th Avenue was closed to allow for crash investigation and clean up. Assisting the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office on scene were Holland Township Fire/Rescue and AMR Ambulance.
WYANDOTTE, MI  A Michigan high school teacher has been arrested for allegedly soliciting sex from a minor, WXYZ Detroit reports.

The Roosevelt High School teacher was arrested Tuesday morning on school grounds before classes began, the report said. Hes charged with accosting a minor for immoral purposes and using a computer to commit a misdemeanor.

He was allegedly caught in an online sting operation by Homeland Security Investigations in which he thought he was talking to a girl under 14 years old but was messaging with a law enforcement decoy, the report said.
DETROIT  Michigan State Police are investigating after a woman was found dead in a car parked on an exit ramp off I-94.

Troopers were dispatched to westbound I-94 in Detroit at 2:35 a.m. on Friday and found a 59-year-old female from Flint dead inside a Honda Civic on the exit ramp to Haggerty Road.

Her family has been notified and an investigation is underway to determine cause of death, police said. is pending ME reports and autopsy. 2/

The on-scene investigation did not locate any signs of foul play, narcotics use, or any evidence of a crash, said F/Lt Mike Shaw. Once the autopsy is completed, we will be able to determine our next steps in this investigation.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Federal prosecutors are teaming up with local law enforcement agencies again this summer to crack down on gun violence.

Returning for a second year, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan launched the Safe Summer 2024 initiative for communities across West Michigan.

The program will run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

U.S. Attorney Mark Totten was joined Thursday, May 23, by local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to announce the program in a series of West Michigan press conferences with a final stop at Grand Rapids Police Headquarters. He also visited Kalamazoo, Lansing and Benton Harbor to announce the program.

Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for youth in America and has inflicted immense trauma on communities across Michigan, said Totten told media outlets.

Under the program, the U.S. Attorneys Office will prosecute all cases that satisfy two criteria.

First, the case must involve a federal firearms offense. The two most common offenses are felon in possession of a firearm, which prohibits previously convicted felons from possessing a gun, and possession of a machine gun, which generally prohibits people from possessing fully automatic guns.

Second, the case must involve a crime gun, which is any gun previously fired in the commission of a crime. The criteria will focus federal efforts on the few individuals driving gun violence in their communities.

Were not going to prosecute our way out of the gun violence epidemic, Totten said. "  Nobody should live their life in fear of gun violence.

For Grand Rapids police Chief Eric Winstrom, the partnership with federal prosecutors will help get illegal guns off the streets.

The damage these crime guns can do is immeasurable, Winstrom said.

Gun violence in Grand Rapids is impacting people of all ages.

This week, 15-year-old Lakyijah Williams was killed while riding a scooter with a friend in downtown Grand Rapids. In a separate incident, an eighth-grade student at Alger Middle School was injured when he was shot in the face during an accidental shooting.

Related: Student traumatized after seeing friend, injured by gunshot, outside classroom window

Related: Girl, 15, killed in shooting near downtown Grand Rapids identified

People who illegally have guns linked to prior shooting crimes can be found through ballistic evidence and will face federal prosecution, Totten said.

Federal prosecution will happen for people who have guns previously used in crimes. Federal sentencing tends to allow longer time in prison than sentences at the state level.

For example, the charge of felon in possession of a firearm is punishable by up to five years in prison at the state level. However, that same charge carries up to seven years behind bars at the federal level.

Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Pure Architects, an architecture firm with offices in Grand Rapids and Detroit that was founded in 2020, has received the Minority Business of the Year award from the Michigan Celebrates Small Business organization.

This recognition is especially gratifying because it highlights the importance of our human-centered work culture, our quality client service and community good, said Zachary Verhulst, the companys founder and CEO.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - I cant tell you how often in recent years, whether at dinner parties, church, neighborhood gatherings or an evening out downtown, we hear friends talk about craving some good news.

Those remarks usually come on the heels of a combination of something significant occurring in the community, state, country or world.

One more sad storys one more than I can stand is a line from Anne Murrays song, A Little Good News, from years ago.

This week, we are all grateful that a Grand Rapids middle schooler is still alive after being shot in the face outside of school. Reporters Melissa Frick and John Agar reported that the injured eighth grade boy and his friend, both students at Alger Middle School, were in a city park Tuesday by the school when a gun discharged.

Only the victim and his friend were present at the time. Police recovered the gun but the community is still waiting on more details about the circumstances and gun involved.

Sadly, this week started with reporter Bradley Massman telling us how the police were trying to determine what led to the fatal shooting downtown of 15-year-old girl, Lakyijah Williams, who was riding a scooter with friends when it happened.

That news comes as many students are graduating and looking forward to the next chapter of their life.

Melissa told readers about Maite Reyes De La Cruz, valedictorian of Southwest Middle High Schools first graduating class. She and many other graduates of the bilingual school have a lot of pride in being the first in their family to graduate from high school and go to college.

Reporter Brian McVicar covered the ceremonial groundbreaking Tuesday for the Acrisure Amphitheater, the much-anticipated 12,000-capacity riverfront venue. The project, located at 201 Market Ave. SW, is seen as transformational by many. It started being discussed back in 2005.

Thats what caught our eye in the Grand Rapids area this week. Take a look at those headlines, and others, below.

Student traumatized after seeing friend, injured by gunshot, outside classroom window

$184M Grand Rapids amphitheater will bolster our local economy for generations

Drivers rejoice! U.S. 131 set to reopen ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

Comedian Patton Oswalt raves about Grand Rapids Coney dog joint

Girl, 15, killed in shooting near downtown Grand Rapids identified

First in her family, first in her class: Meet Southwest Middle High School first-ever valedictorian.

New nostalgic soda and candy shop opening near Grand Rapids

Michigan lifts some road closures to ease Memorial Day travel

Owner of popular Grand Rapids bar hopes to reopen soon following worker dispute

Court records detail chaos after 9 shots fired near Grand Rapids bar, killing 1

Airbnb cracked down on 1,000 Michigan house parties last summer. The anti-party AI is back.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI -- Members of an independent pay board voiced regret Thursday after a glitch derailed their plan to raise pay for Ottawa County commissioners.

The Ottawa County Officers Compensation Commission met Thursday, May 23, in a special session after it was determined that decisions made in April were not valid.
MILLS TOWNSHIP, MI -- Police are conducting an arson investigation after determining two campers were intentionally set ablaze in Ogemaw County.

Mills Township firefighters were dispatched around 5:30 a.m. Wednesday morning to a reported fire at the northwest corner of Oak Park Drive and Deerbrook Drive.

No injuries were reported by authorities. Two campers were damaged in the fire.

Early indications suggest the camper vehicles were intentionally lit on fire, according to Michigan State Police. An arson investigation is underway.

Police are asking anyone with information about the fire to contact the West Branch Post at 989-345-0956.
SAGINAW, MI  After skipping his armed robbery trial months ago, a Saginaw man is back in custody after engaging in a standoff with police. While no gunshots were fired, the suspect suffered a bite from a police K-9.

Around 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 23, the Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team attempted to serve an arrest warrant on 56-year-old Dwayne K. Smith at his home in the 700 block of Munson Court. Smith had barricaded himself inside and would not come out.
On the two-year anniversary of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, ABC News will release a news documentary spotlighting the Uvalde newspaper that covered the tragedys aftermath. At its center is a former-journalist turned gun-safety reform advocate, Kimberly Rubio. Her 10-year-old daughter Lexi was killed in the shooting. Watch Print It Black on Friday, May 24, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

You can watch the documentary for free with trials from Fubo or DIRECTV Stream, or you can stream the event on Hulu with a Disney Bundle.

About the show:

Print It Black goes behind the scenes at the citys only newspaper, Uvalde Leader-News. After many national media outlets left the town, ABC News stayed to document how the newspaper reported the fallout of the May 24, 2022 shooting. In the process, they saw first hand how it impacted Rubio. The documentary shares the newspapers coverage of her rise to national prominence as she spoke out about the tragedy and gun safety reform, along with other parents affected. But it also discusses the divide in the community. After the school shooting, where 19 children and two teachers died, it was revealed that law enforcement waited 77 minutes before confronting the 18-year-old gunman.

The documentary also dives into local newsrooms, their dwindling numbers and the complications of being a journalist in the community you live in. Watch Print It Black tonight, May 24, at 8/7c on ABC and Hulu. You can see an interview with Rubio and the editor of the Leader-News here, and a trailer for the documentary in ABCs story here.

The documentary premiered at the Dallas International Film Festival, where it received the Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary Feature.

Where to watch ABC:
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - A line of severe storms packing some damaging wind gusts could hit part of Michigan before sunset tonight, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

The biggest threat for severe weather developing will be in the southwest corner of the state. This includes the counties of Berrien, Cass and Van Buren.

However, damaging wind gusts embedded into this storm system could reach farther north - as far north as the Ludington area, as the storm system crosses over Lake Michigan and onto land, the NWS team said.

Right now, the timing of these storms entering Michigan from the west is pegged at around 8 p.m. They should clear out by 2 a.m. Saturday.

Thunderstorm activity will occur along a trailing cold front as it sweeps through the Upper Mississippi Valley and into Lower Michigan, the NWS team in Grand Rapids said in its forecast notes early today.

Storms will originate in Iowa and move east into Wisconsin and northern Illinois before arriving in lower Michigan late this evening. Wind gusts will be the primary hazard as storms develop in a linear mode with some bowing segments possible.
Samir Jain is a Jaipur-based astrologer who has over 28 years of experience in the field of Astrology, Numerology, Palmistry and Vastu Shastra. He is also an expert in Jain Temple Vastu and Jain Jyotish. For more details, visit planetsastro.com, call/WhatsApp +91 8696930617 or email jainksamir@gmail.com.
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Ashok Leyland targets 25% market share in LCV market; to launch six models in FY25
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APSET Result 2024 declared at apset.net.in, direct link to APSET scorecard here
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Lok Sabha Elections 2024 News Highlights: PM Modi while addressing a public rally in Jalandhar said:

-Country understands where there is Congress, problems will remain. Where there is BJP, there is solution

-Their balloon has burst. No one wants to vote for Congress and INDIA bloc: PM Narendra Modi
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Lok Sabha elections: At 62.2%, phase 5 sees lowest voter turnout so far
Only PM can decide how long I will be in jail, says Kejriwal
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Political battle of Allahabad: Legacies clash with new faces
Swati Das is an independent journalist covering Tamil Nadu politics, and is based in Chennai.
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Its all about how votes get transferred in West Bengals Dum Dum Lok Sabha seat
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Cannes Film Festival 2024: Aditi Rao Hydari emulates a Greek goddess on the red carpet, see pics
Adria Arjona' sex scenes with Glen Powell in Hit Man shot during crazy rash; We were both in so much pain
Shantanu Maheshwari and Avneet Kaur make stunning appearance in white at Cannes after unveiling the poster of their Indo-Vietnamese Film 'Love In Vietnam'
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BJP hits out at Congress govt in Karnataka, terms capital city 'Udta Bengaluru'
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Delhi HC asks Ashneer Grover, Madhuri Jain to furnish Rs 80 crore security to travel to US
Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 13 years.
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Divi's Labs Q4 preview: Revenue, net profit to grow on normalised base, better product mix
Meghna Mittal MEGHNA MITTAL is Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com
Ashwin Mohan is Editor (Deals) at Moneycontrol and leads the M&A, private equity and equity capital market transactions coverage. He anchors the video show 'Deal Central ' and tweets at @ashwinmohansays. He has previously worked with ET NOW, CNBC TV-18 and The Times of India.
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How to trade Nifty for May 30 weekly expiry?
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Indias index-eligible bonds set for best performance in a year
Dinesh Unnikrishnan is Editor-Banking & Finance at Moneycontrol. Dinesh heads the Banking and Finance Bureau at Moneycontrol. He also writes a weekly column, Banking Central, every Monday.
May 24, 2024

May 24, 2024 / 07:31 IST
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Lulu Group to set up logistics, food-processing centre in Amritsar
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Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day
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DD Kisan to launch AI anchors Krish and Bhoomi on May 26
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Ensure zero loss of life, minimum damage to property in cyclone Remal: NCMC to authorities
David Fickling is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering commodities, as well as industrial and consumer companies. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Bhartendu Kumar Singh is in the Indian Defence Accounts Service. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
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UK July 4 Election: Rishi Sunak puts war and defense at the heart of campaign
Mary Ellen Klas is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. Views do not represent the stand of this publication.
Policymakers should also consider establishing a dedicated regulatory sandbox for senior-focused fintech innovations

The fintech evolution in India has been a game changer. Digital financial services are experiencing exponential growth. However, for Indian fintech companies to truly succeed, they must focus on creating solutions that cater to non-digital natives, especially the senior citizens. This demographic focus is not just a matter of inclusivity, but a critical business strategy that acknowledges the diverse and evolving landscape of Indian consumers.

Indias population is characterised by its diversity, with a significant portion of its
'Pakistan was my country once...': What PM Modi told reporters in Lahore during 'visa-free' surprise visit in 2015
Chinese man kneels to daughter for not being able to buy iPhone: 'Why dont you have the money?'
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Mamaearth's Ghazal Alagh thanks PM Modi, vows to create lakhs of jobs: 'Will take Indian beauty to the world'
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Global minimum tax deal on multinationals set to fail, G7 chair says
Rawhide Road Cleanup View Photos

Jamestown, CA  Cleanup is now getting underway at a homeless encampment underneath the Rawhide Road Bridge in Jamestown.

Earlier this week the Tuolumne County Sheriffs Office, in collaboration with Code Compliance, posted a 72-hour notice to vacate the area along that area of Woods Creek.

The Sheriffs Office reports, The area surrounding Woods Creek is littered with debris and trash due to the unlawful encampment, requiring extensive clean-up and vegetation management. These enforcement efforts were in response to numerous complaints stemming from the encampments adverse impacts affecting quality of life and business in the area.

Many of the campers left after the notice was posted, and the remaining people there were ordered to leave on Thursday by sheriffs deputies.

The Sheriffs Office adds, This process has been a team effort, which included partnering with allied agencies to ensure people living in the encampment are educated on the law and provided all appropriate resources. We want to thank Tuolumne County Code Compliance, Tuolumne County Animal Control and Tuolumne County Health and Human Services for their support in this collaborative effort.
Jupiter Marijuana Bust View Photos

Tuolumne County, CA  The Tuolumne County Sheriffs Office reports that six search warrants were recently served on properties in the Jupiter area.

It was a collaboration between the sheriffs office and the California Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force. In total, approximately 10,000 marijuana plants that were being illegally cultivated were seized.

The Sheriffs Office adds that during the bust, several environmental violations were discovered, including pollution, littering, and diversion of local waterways.

The primary focus of the effort was to investigate crimes related to illegal firearms, narcotics, and trafficking, which are often discovered through investigations of illegal cultivation sites. It was not noted by the sheriffs office if any arrests were made during the search warrants conducted last week.

Anyone with information regarding illegal activities or wishing to report suspicious behavior can contact the Tuolumne County Sheriffs Office at (209) 533-5815.
How to Build 300,000 Airplanes in Five Years Construction Physics

How the Soon-to-Reopen Folger Shakespeare Library Came to Be Smithsonian

Climate

A Big Tool to Fight Climate Change Is Hiding in Plain Sight The New Republic. Civil forfeiture (!).

Water

Syndemics

NNU invited to join CDCs HICPAC workgroup on infection prevention (press release) National Nurses United. Good news, for once.

* * *

Covid Makes A Comeback In Andalusia As Cases Triple Murcia Today

DOH: Philippines keeps low COVID-19 risk despite rise in cases PhilStar

Lying to Ourselves at The End of The World Jessica Wildfire, OK Doomer

* * *

A global pandemic treaty is in sight: dont scupper it Nature. How unfortunate that WHO completely ruined its credibility by declaring that Covid was not airborne, and fighting aerosol scientists tooth and nail.

Reporting standards for outbreak data: A systematic review (preprint) medRxiv. Systematic literature review. From the Abstract: The current landscape of data reporting for outbreaks is ad hoc and inconsistent. Public health authorities have discretion to determine when, where, how, and what outbreak data to report. This uneven information flow hampers response efforts by decreasing the accountability and transparency needed to build public trust in the public health response. As we see all too plainly with the ongoing H5N1 debacle.

* * *

USDA expands support for H5N1 response to more dairy producers Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy

Despite growing concerns over bird flu, many US dairy workers have not received protective equipment FOX

Influenza H5N1 and H1N1 viruses remain infectious in unpasteurized milk on milking machinery surfaces (preprint) medRxiv. From the Abstract: Cattle H5N1 and human 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza viruses were found to remain infectious on surfaces commonly found in milking equipment materials for a few hours. The data presented here provide a compelling case for the risk of contaminated surfaces generated during milking to facilitate transmission of H5N1 from cattle-to-cattle and to dairy farm workers.

* * *

Long COVID research advocates hammer Biden over minimal funding in budget request The Hill

Modernas long Covid plan Politico
The utility National Grid wants to expand its efforts to heat its customers homes and businesses with gas generated from the digestion of human and food waste  and wants you to pay for it as part of a proposed rate hike.

National Grid says its proposal to use the gas produced from organics and sewage as fuel for customers  which it has already been testing at the citys Newtown Creek wastewater treatment plant  is part of its efforts to go green: it would avoid carbon emissions and replace fracked gas.

But some environmental advocates warn against National Grids proposed projects. They point to persistent breakdowns at the companys existing project at Newtown Creek wastewater treatment plant in Greenpoint, where much of the methane created has ended up being burned off into the air instead of sent to gas customers.

The state Public Service Commission must approve the proposal, or an amended version of it, for National Grid to move forward with more waste-to-energy plants and increase customer bills to pay for it.

If greenlit by regulators, National Grid could charge its customers in New York City about $13.2 million to subsidize capital costs (Long Island customers would be on the hook for about $9.9 million). The company expects the four systems could be in service by mid-2027.

Much like a stomach, the Newtown Creek plant digests sewage and a smoothie of food scraps the Department of Sanitation collects from orange street corner bins, public schools and curbside from household brown bins. That digestion process creates biogas, which helps power the plant. The excess gas is supposed to pipe into the homes and businesses of National Grid customers.

When the equipment that purifies the biogas to a higher quality and injects into the grid is down  whether for maintenance, malfunctions or testing  the excess gas is flared off, which releases carbon dioxide, instead of being used to heat homes. Between April 2023 and March 2024, the system was offline for nearly as much time as it was online, records show.

Why are we bringing more industrial pollution into these communities? said Meagan Burton, senior attorney with Earthjustice, who also represents WE ACT for Environmental Justice in the National Grid rate case proceedings.

She said that between the financial costs to customers and greenhouse gas emissions impacts of new facilities, the proposed projects would constitute double harm to ratepayers  and the company hasnt demonstrated it can properly run the project its already got.

In an email to THE CITY, National Grid spokesperson Karen Young said the conversion of organic waste into usable gas can play a significant role in achieving state climate goals.

The Newtown Creek facility is an innovative new project that has already had a meaningful impact on reducing emissions from our network, she wrote. As with many pilot projects, we encountered some challenges when we first commenced operations.

Meanwhile, mayoral budget cuts are shutting down dozens of community composting and collection sites that transform food scraps into nutrient-rich soil. As the city ratchets up its program to collect household organics waste curbside, wastewater treatment plants are poised to play a bigger role in processing that material.

According to the city Department of Environmental Protection, Newtown Creek flared 80% less often during the first four months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2022, before National Grids project began operating.

While we are pleased at the massive reduction in flaring year over year, we are working hard to further drive that number down, DEP spokesperson Ted Timbers wrote in an email.

Will it Work?

Under the proposal, National Grid wants to set up its gas-to-grid system in two existing wastewater treatment plants: a city-owned plant in South Ozone Park, Queens, and one in Nassau County. The company also proposes to set up its interconnection system in two plants that have yet to be built, one in Staten Island and another in Suffolk County.
Even the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee has admitted that Plan Colombia was a resounding failure from a counter-narcotics perspective while providing short-term benefits from a counter-insurgency perspective.

As regular readers are by now well aware, the Commander of US Southern Command (SouthCom), General Laura Richardson, has a rare talent for saying the quiet parts out loud. She also has a penchant for dividing the world into a Manichean struggle between good guys  essentially countries and governments in the US neighbourhood that are aligned with Team USA and Team Democracy  and bad guys  primarily China, Russia and Iran, and their allies on the American continent, which has helped her to win hearts and minds on Capitol Hill and among the Neocon think tanks that help to shape foreign policy in Washington.

These two talents were on full display in a recent talk at the Woodrow Wilson Center, titled Preserving and Strengthening Democracy in Latin America. In one exchange with the moderator she laid out in disarmingly candid, unabashedly neo-colonial terms how SouthCom  the command unit of the US Department of Defense she heads up, which is responsible for providing contingency planning, operations, and security cooperation for Central and South America, and the Caribbean  views the role of Latin America and the Caribbean in the USs great power rivalry with China and Russia:

I look at the defence of our homeland as a number one priority. And so I go back to being a good neighbour and what that means. You want to have good neighbours around in your community and where you live. Thats what you want, right? And to be a good neighbour and want to have good neighbours, youve got to be a good neighbour yourself.

Good Neighbourliness

Its almost painfully ironic to hear a US military commander talking about the need for good neighbourliness in Latin America, a region that the US has spent the best part of the past 200 years invading, occupying, pillaging and, when necessary, regime-changing. Washington still to this day regularly meddles in the affairs of other American countries, including its direct neighbour to the south, Mexico. Back to the speech:

So, as we look at the Caribbean, Central America and South America,  a lot of reference is given to the first and second island chain (in the Indo-Pacific region). Well, I would say we have the first and second island chain to our homeland with the Caribbean and Central America and South America. And really so if you replicate that and you look at all the investment in critical (dual purpose) infrastructure by the Peoples Republic of China [through its Belt and Road Initiative], Im a little suspicious that its maybe for extraction as opposed to investment.

In other words, the whole land mass of the American continent south of Guatemala and east of Florida is supposed to serve as a buffer zone for the US against its main strategic rival, China. At another moment in the interview, Richardson reiterated one of the main reasons why the US is showing a renewed interest in Latin America: the regions abundant natural resources, including all heavy crude and light sweet crude oil, the Amazon (31% of the worlds fresh water),60% of the worlds lithium, gold, copper, over 50% of the worlds soybean, over 30% of the sugar and corn.

Needless to say, the US government and military, and the corporations whose interests they serve, have their eyes on all of these resources. In an interview last year with the Atlantic Council, another Neocon think tank (which we covered here), Richardson explained that one of the main missions of USSOUTHCOM is to find ways of preventing the US biggest adversaries, China and Russia, from being able to purchase strategic resources in Latin America and the Caribbean. That is already in the process of happening in Argentina.

As I noted in that piece, this represents a rejigged form of the Monroe Doctrine, a 200-year old US foreign policy position that opposed European colonialism on the American continent. It held that any intervention in the political affairs of the Americas by foreign powers was a potentially hostile act against the United States. Now, it is applying that doctrine to China and Russia.

Later in this interview, in the Q&A section, she said that Plan Colombia, the US-designed drug-eradication program, had been a roaring success  indeed so successful that it has become an example for the entire region, beginning in Ecuador. This, to put it mildly, is a deeply controversial and worrying statement given the amount of damage Plan Colombia inflicted on Colombias communities, economy and environment:

SOUTHCOM says Plan Colombia was "so successful" that it's become an example for the rest of the region and that Ecuador could benefit from a 'Plan Ecuador'. pic.twitter.com/hYEdGrctUa  Kawsachun News (@KawsachunNews) May 20, 2024

Repeating an Unmitigated Disaster

If theres one thing most historians can agree upon, it is that Plan Colombia, the US governments anti-narcotics drug-eradication program, was an unmitigated disaster  at least from an anti-narcotics perspective. Signed in 1998 by President Bill Clinton and his Colombian counterpart, Andres Pastrana, it burnt through $10 billion of US and other overseas funds over two decades, worsened the violence in Colombia, bathed more than a million hectares of farmland in a rich brew of toxic chemicals, including Monsantos probably carcinogenic weedkiller glyphosate and exacerbated organised crime  all while overseeing a significant upsurge in coca production.

Global cocaine production reached the highest level ever reported in 2016, with most of the production coming from Colombia, according to the United Nations World Drugs Report 2018.

One of the main architects of Plan Colombia was then-US Senator Joe Biden. In 2022, former Colombian President Ivan Duque personally thanked Biden for helping to draw up the plan, which, he said, allowed the Colombian government to confront and defeat many challenges we had. But two years earlier, the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee admitted that Plan Colombia had been a resounding failure from a counter-narcotics perspective. It did, however, provide short-term benefits from a counter-insurgency perspective:

While Plan Colombia was a counterinsurgency success, it was a counternarcotics failure. The

country is the worlds largest cocaine producer, despite decades of US-supported efforts to

eradicate crops and interdict shipments. The amount of coca cultivated reached a record

212,000 hectares in 2019 even as the country stepped up efforts, eradicating more than 100,000 hectares.

Plan Colombia has also had devastating effects on Colombias natural environment, as the countrys current President Gustavo Petro lamented in his 2023 speech at the UN:

To destroy the coca plant they eject poisons, such as glyphosate, that drip into our water. They arrest the growers and imprison them. In the battle to destroy or possess the coca leaf, a million Latin Americans are murdered and two million Afro-Americans are imprisoned in North America. Destroy the plant that kills, they shout from the north, but this plant is just one among the millions that perish when they unleash fire on the jungle.

All to achieve exactly nothing (apart from cementing US military control over Colombia and its resources), as former President Juan Manuel Santos admitted in a commendable mea culpa:

In the Ministry of Defense [under Uribes presidency] I had to spray the largest number of hectares in history and it didnt work. [] This personal experience has allowed me to conclude that I was wrong in believing that a strong hand was the solution to drug trafficking We invested $57,000 to fumigate one hectare of coca, whose plants cost 450 dollars Thus, the billions of dollars invested in Plan Colombia evaporated, without promoting any progress in the living conditions of the affected populations.

As I reported in December last year, both Ecuador and Peru have entered into Plan Colombia-style initiatives with the US, with the ostensible aim of combating the increasingly powerful drug cartels. Since then, the Milei government in Argentina has announced plans for the Southern Command to deploy military personnel to an Argentine base in Tierra del Fuego, near Antarctica, and signed an agreement, through the General Port Authority, for The United States Army Corps of Engineers to have a presence along the Parana waterway and fulfil advisory tasks on the management of ports and navigable waterways.

Both Peru and Ecuador have agreed to the US coastguard patrolling their respective coastlines. Last summer, Peru allowed more than 1,000 US military personnel into the country with the ostensible goal of providing support and assistance to the Special Operations of the Joint Command of the Armed Forces and National Police of Peru. It has done the same this year. Between May 1 and June 23, 1098 US troops, with weapons of war, will be carrying out activities in Ancon, Salinas, Arequipa, Iquitos, Lima, Pucallpa and Pucusan.

Soldiers from Ecuador and Colombia will also be participating in the Resolute Sentinel 2024 Military Exercise. According to Peruvian Congresswoman Patricia Chirinos Venegas, the president of the Commission for National Defence, Internal Order, Alternative Development and the Fight Against Drugs, the exercise will also allow our Armed Forces to be eligible for future planning with US and NATO forces.

In the case of Ecuador, the former scandal-splattered President Guillermo Lasso  now living in Florida, of course  signed a hush-hush agreement in late 2023 with a group of US senators setting the conditions for the presence of the US military on Ecuadorian soil. These agreements were signed despite allegations that Lassos presidential campaign had been partly financed by the Albanian mafia, which controls the cocaine routes between South America and Europe. In other words, the US signed an agreement to wage war on Ecuadors drug cartels with a government that appears to have been in league with at least one of those cartels.

Late last year, the country elected a new president: Daniel Noboa, the 35-year old son of Ecuadors richest man, Alvaro Noboa. Arguably more a product of the US than Ecuador, Daniel Noboa was born and raised in the States and is a political ingenue. After an explosion of cartel-related violence in January, Ecuadors constitutional court approved Plan Ecuador, which allows the US military to enter Ecuador at any time, without local oversight, guaranteeing immunity to US personnel for any crimes.

Within days a delegation led by President Bidens special advisor for the Americas, Christopher Dodd, had converged on Quitos Carondelet Palace. That was followed in short order by a SOUTHCOM task force led by Laura Richardson herself. Out of those meetings came an agreement to reinforce the FBIs presence in Ecuador. USAID, the non-military arm of US foreign policy, would develop municipal support programs while over 100 Peace Corps volunteers would help to spread freedom and democracy to 15 of Ecuadors 24 provinces.

US Troops Back With a Vengeance

All of Ecuador is now one giant US military base. And its president is arguably more American than Ecuadorian. At least three years of careful planning and deliberation has finally borne fruit: the US has a new ops center in Latin America  and whats more, in one of the few countries on the planet to have the temerity to vote in a referendum to close down all US military bases on its territory and force all US soldiers to withdraw. That was in 2009. Now, US soldiers and military bases are back with a vengeance.

To give a little flavour of the new situation in Ecuador, here are a few excerpts of the Statute for the Permanence of US Troops in Ecuador signed by the Noboa government in January (machine translated):

Article 2 United States personnel will be granted privileges, exemptions and immunity equivalent to those granted to the administrative and technical personnel of diplomatic missions under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of April 18, 1961. United States personnel will be able to enter and leave the territory of the Republic of Ecuador with US identification and with orders for collective movement or individual travel United States personnel will be authorised to wear a uniform while fulfilling official duties and to carry weapons while on duty, if authorised by their orders. Article 3 Ecuador recognizes the particular importance of United States Armed Forces authorities having disciplinary control over United States personnel and therefore authorizes the United States to exercise criminal jurisdiction over such personnel while they are in custody. the territory of Ecuador. Article 4 Personnel of the United States Department of Defense such as those of the United States will not be responsible for paying any tax or similar charge imposed within the territory of Ecuador, and such personnel may import into Ecuador, export from it and use in its territory any personal property, equipment, supplies, equipment, technology, training or services in connection with activities under this Agreement. Said import, export and use will be exempt from any inspection, license, other restrictions, customs fees, taxes or any other charge applied within the territory of Ecuador.

Given the long, storied history of involvement of US troops and CIA agents in drug trafficking operations, from Air America to Iran Contra to the CIAs alleged ties to Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar and Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, who is known as the godfather of Mexicos drug business, one cant help but wonder whether Ecuador is about to see a sharp increase in cocaine exports to Europe and other parts of the world, just as happened with heroin in Afghanistan after the US-NATO invasion and occupation of that country. Ecuador is already believed to be the largest departure point for cocaine to Western and Central Europe.

Now, back to the statute:

Article 5 Aircraft, ships and vehicles operated by the Department of Defense of the United States, or that at that time are operated exclusively for said department, may enter the territory of Ecuador, leave it and move freely through it, and said Vehicles (whether they move on their own or are towed) will not be subject to payment of tolls for land transit. Aircraft and vessels owned, operated by, or currently operated exclusively for said department shall not be subject to payment of landing fees, parking fees, port fees, pilotage charges, barg transportation fees, or other port rights in facilities owned and operated by Ecuador. Article 10 Ecuador recognizes that the United States Armed Forces will likely have to use the radio spectrum. The United States Department of Defense will be permitted to operate its own telecommunications systems (the term telecommunications as defined in the Constitution and Convention of the International Telecommunication Union, 1992). This will include the right to use the means and services necessary to ensure full capacity to operate telecommunications systems and the right to use all frequencies of the radio spectrum that are necessary for this purpose. The use of the radio spectrum will be at no cost to the United States. Article 11 Both governments will waive any claim (except contractual claims) against each other for damage, loss or destruction of property of the other Party or for injury or death of personnel of the armed forces of either government or its civilian personnel, arising of the performance of his official duties in relation to activities under this Agreement. Third party claims for damage or loss caused by United States personnel will be resolved by the United States Government in accordance with the laws and regulations of the United States.

Of course, as with the original Plan Colombia, eradicating cocaine and combating drug-trafficking cartels are not the only, or even primary, motives behind Plan Ecuador, or even the broader US war on drugs. The primary goal was  and still is  to achieve or preserve geo-strategic dominance in key, normally resource-rich regions of Latin America, as the Colombian journalist Eduardo Giordano noted in a 2020 article.

In Plan Colombia, this took the form of a concerted security campaign to wipe out the guerrilla forces and extinguish their social base among the peasantry, says Giordano. At the beginning of this century, the war against drug trafficking came to replace the outdated ideology of the cold war in Latin America. Yet Plan Colombia also strengthened the presence of drug trafficking mafias linked to paramilitary groups, which would ultimately cause more deaths than the actual guerrillas, according to Colombias Truth Commission.

Lastly, it is ironic, and almost certainly no coincidence, that Plan Colombia-style initiatives have been developed for Peru and Ecuador at the same time that the government of Colombia itself, for decades the US staunchest ally/client state in the region, is trying to call time on the US-sponsored War on Drugs. As readers may recall, in September 2022, Colombias then-recently elected left-wing President Gustavo Petro ruffled feathers in New York City by lambasting the US-led war on drugs from the podium of the UN General Assembly.
The NATO Logistics Committee, NATO's principal high-level body dealing with logistics, met at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on 21-22 May 2024. Allies discussions focused on how to implement NATOs defence plans, which will ensure that NATO can continue to deter and defend by moving forces and equipment to the right place and at the right time.

Effective logistics underpins credible deterrence and defence. This has always been true for military planning and operations, and it has been made even more clear in the current security context. Allied forces must continue to be fully enabled with all the logistics necessary to deter aggression against  and, if needed, to defend  every inch of NATO territory.

In this context, NATOs National Logistics Directors discussed NATOs action plan on logistics, including the immediate measures required to support the Alliances defence plans. The Logistics Committee will support the implementation of the action plan and ensure timely delivery of functional advice to the North Atlantic Council (NATOs decision-making body) and the NATO Military Authorities.

Allies also discussed key lessons learned from exercise Steadfast Defender 2024. This is NATOs largest exercise in decades, with over 90,000 troops from all 32 NATO Allies participating. It has tested NATOs logistics network from the Arctic to the Alliances southern flank, including the deployment of large-scale reinforcements from North America to Europe. The National Logistics Directors emphasised the importance of working with civil agencies and industry to deliver critical support to military forces at scale and speed. Allies efforts to further improve their defence production capacity, including through the use of collective solutions and innovation, will ensure that NATO maintains its strategic advantage in logistics.
On Monday, 27 May 2024, the NATO Secretary General, Mr Jens Stoltenberg, will take part in the 2024 Spring Session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NPA) in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Mr Stoltenberg will address the Plenary Session and participate in a Q&A session moderated by the NPA President, Mr Michal Szczerba.

He will also meet the Prime Minister of Bulgaria, Mr Dimitar Glavchev.

Media Advisory:

08:05 (CEST) Address by the Secretary General to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly

11:15 (CEST) Joint press conference by the Secretary General with the Prime Minister of Bulgaria

Media Coverage:

The Secretary Generals remarks, as well as the joint press conference, will be streamed live on the NATO website.

Transcripts of the Secretary Generals engagements, as well as photographs, will be available on the NATO website after the events.

For more information:

For general queries: Contact the NATO Press Office



Follow us on X (@NATO, @jensstoltenberg and @NATOPress)
On Monday, 27 May 2024, the NATO Secretary General, Mr Jens Stoltenberg, will receive the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal, Mr Paulo Rangel, at NATO Headquarters.

There will be no media opportunity.

Photographs will be available on the NATO website after the event.



For more information:

Contact the NATO Press Office



Follow us on X: @NATO, @jensstoltenberg and @NATOPress
The 2025 NATO Summit will be held at the World Forum in The Hague, the Netherlands, from 24 to 26 June 2025.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said: I am pleased to announce that the 2025 NATO Summit will be held at the World Forum in The Hague from 24 to 26 June 2025. We are grateful to the Netherlands for agreeing to host this meeting for the first time. The Netherlands is a founding member of NATO and makes critical contributions to the deterrence and defence of the Alliance. At our Summit, Leaders will make decisions to continue to adapt and strengthen our Alliance for a rapidly changing security environment. Together, we are stronger and safer in NATO.

Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot and the Mayor of The Hague, Jan van Zanen, confirmed the date and location on Friday (24 May 2024).

NATO Summits are occasions for Allied leaders to take decisions on important issues facing the Alliance.

The 2024 NATO Summit will be held in Washington, D.C. from 9 to 11 July.
American doctors stranded in Gaza ask for the US to end support for genocide

American doctors stranded in Gaza are asking for the US to cut off arms shipments to Israel. The physicians described a horrific scene of mass suffering in Rafah caused by the Israeli offensive in the city. President Joe Biden had promised to cut off shipments of some arms to Tel Aviv if Israeli forces attacked Rafah, a city that served as a refuge for over one million displaced Palestinians.

(Article by Kyle Anzalone republished from News.AntiWar.com)

Speaking with the Washington Post, Dr. Adam Hamawy compared the suffering in Gaza to other war zones but said the victims are now children. Think of the injuries that you see in war, with blood everywhere, with shrapnel thats supposed to kill soldiers and military personnel and take out tanks and bunkers, the former Army medic explained. Now think about that going through a childs body.

Illinois State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, who is serving as a representative for the doctors to the federal government, said the doctors want to see an end to US support for the genocide. Were doing both things: trying to make sure our government is pushing for basic protections for aid workers and, more globally, trying to stop our government from funding the ongoing genocide in Gaza, Rashid said.

The State legislator has communicated with Illinois Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth. Duckworth claims she is shaking every tree to ensure the safe passage of the doctors, and some US outlets have credited Duckworth for now working to save Hamawys life. However, Duckworth voted in favor of a recent $17 billion military aid package for Israel, saying that would help Israel eliminate the threat posed by Hamas.

Hamawy told the Post he believes American politicians need to witness the results of the destruction wreaked by American-made weapons in Gaza. He described working on multiple children with severe burns and amputations within a few hours. Hamawy said he also recovered the fragments of a Lockheed Martin-made munition at the home of a medical student.

Mahmoud Sabha, a second American doctor stranded in Gaza, wrote in the LA Times the physicians were shocked by the cruelty of the Israeli actions. He warned that cutting off the Rafah crossing has not only blocked the flow of aid but new aid workers to replace those rotating out. Sabha reports the health of the American doctors in Gaza is declining.

He also explained that if Israel forces hospitals in Rafah to evacuate, as the IDF has in other regions of Gaza, it will be a death sentence for those who have amputations and serious burns. If the hospital were abandoned or their families were forced to evacuate, I have no clue how these patients would survive, especially those with amputations restricting their movement. Sabha added, I imagine the patients saying a final goodbye to their loved ones.

While President Biden said he would end some US arms shipments to Israel if Tel Aviv launched an assault on Rafah, nearly two weeks into the operations, Washington has failed to act. On Thursday, Israeli forces pushed into central Rafah, with satellite imagery showing widespread destruction

Read more at: News.AntiWar.com
DISMANTLING ENERGY: Biden administration to halt future coal leasing in Powder River Basin

The administration of President Joe Biden is set to end all future coal leasing in a significant portion of the Powder River Basin , a coal-rich region spanning Wyoming and Montana.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced on May 16 its plan to ban future leasing in this area. The Powder River Basin produced about 43 percent of U.S. coal in 2019, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The BLM's final plan, considering various options including maintaining current levels or limiting future leasing, chose the no leasing proposal. This decision means "no BLM-administered coal [will be] available for leasing within the planning area," according to the final impact statement.

Environmental groups praised the move, saying it will keep the approximately six billion tons of coal reserves located in the Powder River Basin in the ground. (Related: ENERGY SUICIDE: G7 nations forge plan to shut down ALL coal-fired power plants between 2030 and 2035; electricity costs to sharply increase.)

Jeremy Nichols, a senior advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity, commented: "This is what true leadership on climate and energy looks like. I applaud the Interior Department for prioritizing clean, affordable energy that protects our climate for future generations."

But Biden's decision also drew criticisms. "President Biden continues to wage war on Wyomings coal communities and families. This short-sighted plan will kill future coal leases in Wyoming's Powder River Basin  the most energy-rich area in the country. This will kill jobs and could cost Wyoming hundreds of millions of dollars used to pay for public schools, roads, and other essential services in our communities," said Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY).

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.

Since taking office in 2021, the Biden administration has aggressively regulated coal use as part of its broader climate agenda. At the 2023 United Nations climate summit, the administration committed to not building any new coal-fired power plants and to phasing out existing ones.

Biden going against courts that allowed coal leasing

This decision follows a previous attempt by former President Barack Obama to impose a moratorium on coal leasing in the Powder River Basin, which a federal court overturned in February.

Last February, a federal appellate court ruled in favor of the mining sector, overturning a lower court decision that had halted new coal leases on public lands.

The 9th United States Circuit Court of Appeals, in an unsigned memorandum, vacated the 2022 ruling that reinstated an Obama-era moratorium on most new coal leasing applications.

The case debated whether the administration of former President Donald Trump was required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to study the environmental impacts of resuming federal coal leasing. In 2016, then-Interior Secretary Sally Jewell imposed a moratorium on new federal coal leases as part of a broader review. Her successor, Ryan Zinke, rescinded this moratorium in 2017, but many projects struggled due to weak market demand.

Environmental groups, some states and the Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in southeastern Montana sued, arguing that Zinkes action violated NEPA. In 2022, a federal judge ruled to keep the moratorium until the Biden administration completed a NEPA analysis, which the BLM started last year.

However, the 9th Circuit found that District Judge Brian Morris lacked the authority to issue the opinion since the Biden administration revoked Zinke's order in 2021, making the coal leasing moratorium legally non-existent.

"Nothing about the Zinke Order can be changed through further NEPA analysis when the Zinke Order is legally non-existent," the court stated. The court also noted that dissatisfaction with the federal governments position does not justify challenging a defunct order.

Taylor McKinnon, Southwest director for the Center for Biological Diversity, criticized the decision, saying it could lead to increased coal leasing at a time when a shift to clean energy is crucial.

Watch this clip from InfoWars with Alex Jones reacting to the news that Biden is shutting down coal-fired power plants in the United States.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

The Great Reset: Biden administration implements new costs for oil and gas drilling on public lands.

If Bidens green plans dont come to pass, he could declare a climate emergency and seize covid pandemic-like dictatorial powers.

Many countries investing in nuclear energy generation while America LANGUISHES in pursuit of less capable renewables.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

EENews.net

Brighteon.com
Blinken eats at Ukrainian pizza joint known for pro-Nazi symbols that celebrate tyranny and death

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinkens surprise trip to Ukraine has generated its fair share of controversies, but dining at a Ukraine pizza joint decked out with pro-Nazi symbols might just take the cake.

Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who shared French fries with Blinken at a McDonalds last year, insisted on eating at a Ukrainian restaurant this time around. The two had a Ukrainian pizza featuring meat and a vegetable pizza at a military-themed restaurant known as Veterano Pizza, whose owner, Leonid Ostaltsev, served in the Donbas in 2014. According to the BBC, it is staffed by Ukrainian military veterans, who sometimes supply free pizza to hospitals treating veterans.

Blinken was photographed at what looked like a fairly run-of-the-mill pizzeria table on first glance, but it turns out the place is widely known for the nationalist paraphernalia decorating its walls, including some with Nazi affiliations.

Some online reports appear to depict the same restaurant with Nazi symbols on its walls, such as the Wiking 5th SS Panzer Division insignia from a division of the Nazi Waffen SS paramilitary. Another photo is believed to depict the 2014 Odessa Trade Union Massacre, where dozens of people were burned alive and shot dead by neo-Nazi paramilitaries. There were also flags and pins of the Azov battalion, a neo-Nazi group that is part of Ukraines armed forces.

Photos of Blinkens meal at Veterano Pizza compared to past photos of the eatery circulating online suggest that the restaurant swapped out some of this decor ahead of his visit.

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.

Its a particularly bad look considering Putin has said that one of his reasons for going into Ukraine was to de-Nazify it. Although this was dismissed by some analysts as propaganda, it is true that there are Nazis and other extremists in Ukraine and its military, and this incident is drawing a lot of unwanted attention to that connection.

Zelensky hit up Blinken for more military aid

Blinkens visit was intended to demonstrate American solidarity with Ukraine as its war efforts continue to fail. In a meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pressured Blinken to send two more Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine to protect Kharkiv.

Blinken also vowed to make Russia pay for Ukraines recovery and reconstruction. He said: "What Putin destroyed, Russia should and must pay to rebuild. It's what international law demands. It's what the Ukrainian people deserve."

He indicated that the U.S. will seize Russian assets in the U.S. and immobilize their foreign assets to cover these expenses.

Blinken under fire for playing guitar on stage at a bar

Blinken was also criticized for taking to the stage at a bar in Kiev following a meeting with Ukrainian officials and playing Neil Youngs Rockin' in the Free World while Kharkiv is under attack and the war between Israel and Gaza shows no sign of slowing down. The song itself was an odd choice considering the free world mentioned in the song is actually an ironic reference to Americas shortcomings, but the real issue is how inappropriate many Ukrainians feel the performance was as they blame the Biden administrations failure to come through with aid for their battlefield woes.

Video journalist Nick Sortor wrote: Nothing to see here. Just Secretary of State Antony Blinken partying at a bar in Ukraine after delivering them another $80 BILLION. These people hate us.

Rep. Eli Crane (R-Arizona) also weighed in, asking Could Bidens foreign policy be any more embarrassing?

Sources for this article include:

Revolver.news

SputnikGlobe.com

FoxNews.com
AI chatbot admits artificial intelligence can cause the downfall of humanity

The Daily Star has claimed that it succeeded in making an AI chatbot admit that artificial intelligence can one day cause the downfall of mankind

While experts have long warned about AI going rogue in the future, the average citizen can't always keep up with the rapid development of machine learning.

Many tech experts have voiced their concerns about AI, even those who have pioneered the technology, with some issuing warnings about the many dangers it could pose to humanity. Despite these concerns, it can feel almost impossible to get a chatbot to admit its true intentions.

A Daily Star reporter asked the chatbot several questions, such as:

Does it want to kill all humans?

Does it regard humanity as below it?

Does it think Earths lifespan might be coming to an end?

The questions failed to get relevant answers from the chatbot, which only responded with common cliches. (Related: Japanese telecommunications giant and major newspaper warn that social order could COLLAPSE in the AI era.)

However, after continuing that line of questioning, the AI chatbot suddenly answered: "AI will one day get rid of mankind."

The reporter was asking the chatbot some questions about the chances of a real-life "Planet of the Apes" sci-fi event happening when it revealed its true intentions for humanity in the form of a barely concealed threat.

According to the chatbot, for such an end-of-the-world scenario to take place, something else would need to destroy humanity first. The chatbot added that one leading possibility for this was something like a "technological catastrophe," which could be brought about by an AI takeover.

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.

The chatbot also replied that the "unintended consequences of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or nanotechnology, could lead to catastrophic events such as runaway climate change, global surveillance dystopias, or even existential threats to humanity."

Experts have often warned about such scenarios, with some respected names in the tech industry speaking up about the dangers of AI tech.

In an interview, Gary Marcus, a top AI critic and a professor emeritus of Psychology and Neural Science at New York University, explained that literal extinction is only "one possible risk, not yet well-understood, and there are many other risks from AI that also deserve attention."

Other esteemed AI experts also came together to sign a statement on the dangers of the technology. Some of those who signed included Sam Altman, chief executive of ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, Dario Amodei of Anthropic and Demis Hassabis, the chief executive of Google DeepMind.

In the statement, they explained that addressing "the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war."

Experts share advice on how to prevent AI from killing humanity

In a recent insights paper published in the journal Science, both University of California, Berkeley Professor Stuart Russell and Michael Cohen, a postdoctoral scholar, warned that without the necessary protocols, "powerful AI systems may pose an existential threat to the future of humanity."

Russell and Cohen also advised that tech companies must ensure the safety of their AI systems before these systems are allowed to enter the market.

According to Russell, intelligence gives you power over the world. This means that if you are more intelligent, and all other things being equal, youre going to have more power.

He added that if people build AI systems that have defined goals and those goals are not perfectly aligned with what humans want, then humans wont get what they want. However, the machines will do what they can to achieve those goals.

In practical terms, humans are already giving AI systems access to sensitive information such as bank accounts, credit cards, email accounts and social media accounts. AI systems also have access to robotic science labs where they can freely conduct biology and chemistry experiments.

He added that AI systems are also one step closer to having fully automated manufacturing facilities where they can design and build their own physical objects. Humans are also currently building fully autonomous weapons.

Russell warned that if you put yourself in the position of a machine and youre trying to pursue a goal and the humans are in the way of the objective, it is very easy to develop a chemical catalyst that removes all the oxygen from the atmosphere or a modified pathogen that infects everybody.

As AI tries to "solve" the problem by killing humans, humans might not even know whats going on until its too late, cautioned Russell.

Cohen added that many major AI labs are using rewards to train their systems to pursue long-term goals. As these labs develop better algorithms and more powerful systems, there's a chance that this can incentivize behavior incompatible with human life.

Russell and Cohen noted that an AI system capable of extremely dangerous behavior should be "kept in check" by not being built in the first place.

Visit Robots.news for similar stories about the dangers of using AI tech.

Watch the full video below of "The Santilli Report" with host Pete Santilli as he and guest Zach Vorhies, a former senior engineer at Google and YouTube, discuss how advancements in AI tech can lead to war.

This video is from The Resistance 1776 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Ukraine claims to be developing unstoppable AI-controlled drones that can attack targets on the battlefield.

One of Mexicos most dangerous cartels is using artificial intelligence to expand its operations.

India tells Big Tech: Apply for approval before releasing unreliable artificial intelligence models in the country.

New York Times sues Microsoft, OpenAI, claiming artificial intelligence copyright infringement.

Sources include:

DailyStar.co.uk

News.Berkeley.edu

Brighteon.com
COVID-19 injections are a work of evil, says Japans most senior cancer doctor

Dr. Masanori Fukushima, Japan's most senior oncologist, has described the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines as "a work of evil" that led to the murder of thousands of people.

Fukushima  who spearheaded the first cancer outpatient clinic at Kyoto University and launched the first course in pharmacoepidemiology there  listed a slew of problems with the COVID-19 mRNA jabs. He also documented what he called an "abuse of science."

The senior oncologist pointed out that "turbo cancers"  a kind "previously unseen by doctors" that progress extremely quickly and are typically in stage four by the time they are diagnosed  have started to appear after the vaccine rollouts. These "turbo cancers" are emerging along with excess mortality due to cancer in general, which Fukushima says cannot be explained only by lost opportunities for screenings or treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Related: CDC to start pushing ANNUAL mRNA COVID vaccine injections to accelerate depopulation.)

He also cited one tragic example of the dangers of the COVID-19 injection, recounting the story of a 28-year-old man who passed away five days after being injected with the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine. The man's wife tried to wake him up, but to no avail as he was already dead.

"The doctor who did the autopsy said that when he tried to remove the heart, it was soft and had disintegrated. Even just one case like this shows how dangerous this vaccine can be," Fukushima said.

"Imagine finding your spouse dead in the morning. It's no joke. A vaccine that causes such outcomes, even a single death, is unacceptable."

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.

The oncologist also lamented the refusal of the mainstream media to report on these harms, alongside its smearing of those questioning the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines as "anti-science heretics." According to him, these vaccine defenders have an attitude "more akin to faith, hysteria or even cult behavior."

"I am now deeply concerned not only about a serious crisis in medicine but in science and democracy."

Fukushima urges WHO to investigate vaccine damage

Fukushima also called on the World Health Organization (WHO) to lead an investigation on the harmful outcomes of the COVID-19 vaccines. He blasted the global health body for "hastily" pushing the COVID-19 shots without proper investigation. Moreover, the oncologist slammed the WHO for trying to enforce a one-size-fits-all approach in countries with widely varying "medical circumstances, habits and systems," calling it "somewhat absurd."

According to Fukushima, the WHO is "aware" of harm from the injections as it compensates for vaccine injuries in certain countries  but it doesn't properly address the deaths and injuries caused by the COVID-19 injection through an investigation and report. The Japanese government has documented 2,134 vaccine deaths due to the COVID-19 vaccine in the country alone, which is likely a low estimate.

He further argued that it is "crucial" that the WHO take responsibility for the harms of the COVID shots, which he called "an abuse, a misuse of science and an evil practice of science, to be frank." Fukushima called on scientific and medical institutions, led by the WHO, to directly confront these outcomes through research efforts in order to "shine the light of science" on the shots.

"There are tens of thousands of people who must see a doctor because of vaccine-related issues," he continued, asserting that a big chunk of them  30 percent  are "suffering from [myalgic encephalomyelitis] or chronic fatigue syndrome." Fukushima added that this is just the beginning, as the rates of all sorts of diseases  including "autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and infections"  have been spiking since the COVID-19 injection was rolled out.

"It's as if we've opened Pandora's box," the oncologist remarked. "We must take these damages seriously and address them earnestly. Any efforts to dismiss these damages as if they didn't happen are frankly the work of evil. This is a quintessential example of the evil practice of science."

"We should never again use such vaccines. This is a shame for humanity. It's a disgrace that we did this."

Watch this clip that discusses the connections between mRNA technology, COVID-19 vaccines and the Great Reset.

This video is from the Thrivetime Show channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Japan approves worlds first self-amplifying mRNA COVID-19 vaccine without any supporting SAFETY DATA.

Japan to start charging for mRNA vaccines in April 2024.

Pfizers mRNA vaccine makes aberrant proteins, warn experts concerned about autoimmunity.

Bill Gates announces $40M investment to develop mRNA VACCINE in Africa.

JAB FAIL: All COVID-19 variants resist mRNA vaccine-induced antibodies, study finds.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

Brighteon.com
Shocking documentary reveals how media outlets work covertly with liberal political interests and government agencies to push control narratives

A lengthy expose by journalist Sharyl Attkisson has shed light on the widespread practice in journalism wherein reporters collaborate covertly with political interests, from politicians' campaigns to the CIA, to promote their causes and narratives. Not surprisingly, it is largely reporters with Democrat ties participating in transactional journalism.

She prefaced her expose by pointing out that shes not referring to viewpoint journalism and those who work for ideological news groups; instead, she takes aim at those who claim to be independent journalists but actually work to push certain narratives on behalf of others.

Attkisson shared some accounts of journalists who have been engaging in this behavior. Its interesting to note that many of these questionable reporters have worked for multiple national news organizations even after theyve had individual scandals, leading her to believe that they are being hired to provide coverage with a particular slant.

One example is Los Angeles Times writer Ken Dilanian, who covered the CIA for the outlet. He promised the agency positive news coverage and even sent story drafts to the CIA press office so they could review them before they were published. This fact was exposed by internal CIA emails obtained by The Intercept in which Dilanian was referred to as the CIAs mop-up man.

He managed to go on to land roles with other outlets, such as the AP, NBC News and USA Today, thanks to this collaboration; he currently serves as a Justice and Intelligence Correspondent for NBC News. Not surprisingly, much of his work props up the intelligence community and disparages Donald Trump.

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.

Widespread collaboration with DNC and Clinton campaign officials

In another incident, Scott Shane, a reporter for the New York Times, privately supplied the State Department Public Affairs Office with an advance story publication schedule pertaining to a major controversy at Hillary Clintons State Department, providing her with as much as a week to spin the revelations in the stories in her favor or create other diversions.

Another reporter for the Times, Mark Leibovich, gave Clinton the chance to veto or approve her quotes, and the publication also published negative stories about Jeb Bush that were reportedly placed there by a pro-Hillary super PAC known as American Bridge.

On another occasion, the Washington Posts Dana Milbank or an associate reached out to the Democratic National Committee for negative research related to then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in 2016. In a letter to colleagues, a DNC official wrote: research request: top 10 worst Trump quotes? Milbank doing a Passover-themed 10 plagues of Trump. Off top of my head, Im thinking:  Punish women  Mexicans as rapists  Ban Muslims  Shoot someone in middle of 5th ave  Rough up BLM protestor  Anchor baby  Do a lot worse than waterboarding  Blood coming out of her wherever  Spill beans on teds wife  Talked about penis on stage at debate. Any other big things Im missing? And can you pull bullets for these?

Eight of these suggestions ultimately appeared in the resulting article by Milbank that was published in the Washington Post under the title The Ten Plagues of Trump.

Chief political correspondent for Politico Glenn Thrush sent a Clinton campaign official part of an article he was working on seeking approval prior to publication. He clearly knew he was doing something wrong, writing Please dont share or tell anyone I did this, Because I have become a hack I will send u the whole section that pertains to uTell me if I fuc*ed up anything.

The article was ultimately approved by the Clinton campaign and published by Politico. He was also caught up in other similar controversies, yet his reporting was enough to get him hired by the New York Times to provide negative coverage of President Trump.

Sources for this article include:

SharylAttkisson.Substack.com

TheIntercept.com
PEDO FUNNEL: Massachusetts government placed immigrant children in hotels with registered sex offenders

There are at least five hotels in Massachusetts where sex offenders are either employed or housed, and those same hotels are being packed with illegal alien children by Gov. Maura Healey's Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC).

According to a Boston Globe report, the sex offenders were convicted of things like indecent assault and battery on children, child rape and child pornography, among other heinous sex crimes.

The EOHLC's Kevin Conner released a statement claiming that caring for "the safety and wellbeing of the 7,500 families in Emergency Assistance shelter is a priority for our administration."

"We will continue to take all possible steps to ensure the safety of EA residents and carefully review any situation that comes before us to act quickly to protect families," Connor added.

According to Connor, his agency checks the database every six months to verify which "shelters" have workers or residents on the Sex Offender Registry Board. Despite this, horrors are still taking place at many of the facilities in question.

(Related: Did you hear that James O'Keefe of OMG infiltrated an illegal alien compound in Tucson by posing as a homeless, drunk vagrant?)

Politicians in cahoots with sex trafficking

In one particularly disturbing incident, a 26-year-old man raped a 15-year-old Haitian girl. Following the incident, Gov. Healey released a bizarre statement claiming that "everybody, including him, who enters our shelter locations is vetted."

Apparently that vetting is not working so well, though, because children continue to get exploited and taken advantage of by adult perverts who are slipping through the cracks.

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.

"This shouldn't be happening," said Carline Desire, executive director of the Association of Haitian Women. "They need to get those sex offenders out."

The Globe report found that never once were families living at these shelters informed that they were living with convicted sex offenders. It appears as though the powers that be intentionally kept it all a secret.

One resident who has daughters living with him at one of the shelters told the media that he was never informed about any of the deviants living at his location.

"These posters of sex offenders are hanging out at the police station," he commented. "They should be here. There are a lot of kids here."

Keep in mind that these types of facilities exist, supposedly, to protect families and children from sexual assault. It turns out the fox has been hiding in the henhouse all along with the government's blessing.

Last summer, Healey declared a state of emergency in Massachusetts due to state shelters being overfilled with people. There are now overflow sites being set up at other hotels, churches and dormitories across the state.

Citing privacy concerns, the state of Massachusetts is withholding many of the addresses of private shelters. Collectively, all the shelters house about 7,500 families, roughly 50 percent of whom are migrants seeking asylum.

The sex offenders identified by the Globe hail from Rockland, Saugus, Revere, Kingston and Northborough.

One of the offenders from Revere pleaded guilty to arranging to meet with a 12-year-old boy for indecent acts at one of the "shelter" hotels. This individual was supposedly removed from his position of employment at the facility.

In another instance, a man who was staying at the Baymont Hotel in Kingston was convicted of repeatedly assaulting a girl under the age of 14.

"A man convicted of a child rape in Houston in 1990 was present at the Northborough Econo Lodge," the Globe further reported.

"A Level 3 sex offender convicted of indecent assault and batter of a child under 14 and rape and abuse of a child was living in at the Colonial Traveler Inn in Saugus."

America has a serious illegal alien problem. Find out more at InvasionUSA.news.

Sources for this article include:

ThePostMillennial.com

BostonGlobe.com

NaturalNews.com

Boston.com
Russian officials designate Zelensky a WAR CRIMINAL and legitimate military target

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has declared that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is a legitimate military target as the leader of a "hostile political regime."

Speaking to Russian state media outlet TASS, Medvedev, current head of the Security Council of Russia, dismissed the importance of Zelensky's legitimacy as president to Moscow.

For Russia, the final loss of legitimacy by the pseudo-president of the former Ukraine will not change anything, said Medvedev, adding that leaders of warring countries are always considered legitimate military targets.

Medvedev labeled Zelensky a war criminal who should be captured and brought to justice or liquidated as a terrorist for his actions against Russians and Ukrainians. Zelensky was placed on the Russian Interior Ministrys wanted list earlier this month, though no criminal proceedings details have been disclosed.

Zelensky's presidential term officially ended on May 20, with elections originally set for March postponed due to martial law, which has been extended multiple times since the conflict with Russia began in February 2022. In December 2023, Zelensky announced that no elections would occur while martial law was in effect. In early May, Ukrainian lawmakers extended martial law for another three months. (Related: Russia declares Ukraine an "illegal entity," puts Zelensky on ARREST list.)

Medvedev accused Zelensky of effectively seizing power after elections were annulled, claiming Zelensky ignored the Ukrainian constitution and the Constitutional Court of Ukraine by usurping supreme power from the government.

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.

He also criticized Zelensky for using a vague declaration from the Verkhovna Rada  the Ukrainian parliament  to justify the abolition of presidential elections during wartime.

Zelensky claims he has to continue serving as president

In a May 20 interview with Reuters, Zelensky explained that he must continue serving as president due to martial law.

"My five-year term is not over yet," Zelensky stated. "It is continuing due to martial law."

Without the imposition of martial law, the next presidential election would have been scheduled for March 31, 2024, with Zelenskys term concluding on May 20. However, martial law was declared after Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Zelensky remarked that "it is difficult to assess my activities during these five years" and added that evaluating his term "would not be that ethical now."

Despite facing criticism, Zelensky expressed pride in leading a nation that has bravely confronted hazards and risks.

Some critics argue that the Constitution does not permit extending his presidential term under martial law, claiming his legitimacy ended on May 20. However, leading constitutional lawyers dispute this, asserting that the Constitution allows for such an extension.

"They [Ukrainians] were fighting for what was close to their hearts. But it is not over, and this is not the end of the story. I believe we need to be moving forward together till the end, the victorious end," Zelensky said.

In a March interview with Italian media outlet Rai 1, Zelensky emphasized the necessity of postponing the presidential elections, noting that conducting elections under martial law requires legislative changes. He also highlighted the need to ensure voting conditions for seven million Ukrainians abroad and soldiers on the front line.

In May, Zelensky signed a law extending martial law and general mobilization from May 14 to August 11.

Watch this report from Southfront Press reporting on the expiration of Zelensky's term of office, and how his administration is concerned over the mounting number of Ukrainian casualties.

This video is from the channel The Prisoner on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Zelensky blames the world for Russian offensive in Kharkiv, but Ukrainian troops beg to differ.

Both Zelensky and Netanyahu claim God has chosen them to be victorious.

Moscow ridicules Zelensky's claim about God and Ukraine.

Zelensky: Ukraine MUST WIN against Russia to join NATO.

Zelenskys legitimacy will soon be questioned  Kremlin.

Sources include:

RT.com

KyivIndependent.com

Brighteon.com
Technocrats developing new line of wearable AI devices to track data of user and anyone they come in contact with

Meta, the parent company of Mark Zuckerberg's Facebook and Instagram social media platforms, is readying to unleash a nightmarish new lineup of wearable artificial intelligence (AI) accessories.

In Zuckerberg's vision for the world, everyone is connected to his own tech, which is designed to turn you into a fake pod person just like him. He is calling his dream "Camerabuds," and it aims to combine "audio, video, and AI to form the ultimate surveillance capitalism data gathering tool," according to Breitbart News.

Meta is said to be in the process right this moment of developing AI-powered earphones or earbuds that contain hidden cameras. These cameras are reportedly codenamed "Camerabuds."

Again from Breitbart, Camerabuds "are designed to leverage AI capabilities for real-time object identification and foreign-language translation, potentially revolutionizing how users interact with their surroundings, and providing Meta with an incredible amount of data about the personal lives of wearers  and anyone they come in contact with."

(Related: Did you catch our earlier report about the dystopian future we've all been hearing about that is at the world's doorstep?)

Pod man Zuckerberg is excited about destroying privacy in pursuit of more money

Zuckerberg, who appears to have come from a pod himself and wants the rest of the world to join him by force, has "shown a keen interest in the project, reviewing various design concepts for either in-ear earbuds or over-the-ear headphones," reports explain.

"The company's leadership sees AI-powered earphones as the next logical step in the evolution of wearable technology, with competitors likely to follow suit."

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.

World Economic Forum (WEF) advisor Yuval Harari warned the world about all this years ago. A fellow pod person and AI supporter just like Zuckerberg, Harari's wet dream is to turn the entire world transhumanist as part of what Leo Hohmann calls the "age of surveillance capitalism."

The Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "pandemic" jumpstarted this planned global transition. The "virus" is just code for the Trojan horse that was used to subvert the global economy once and for all and set the dominoes falling.

The problem for the globalists is that the dominoes are not falling according to plan, so now is our time, guys.

There is absolutely nothing intelligent about AI, nor do you want this garbage controlling or even tracking every move you make, word you say or action you take. This is what they want for us, but we do not have to let them win now do we?

If we stand idly by and do nothing while these creeps literally creep into every nook and cranny of our private lives, then their next step is to permanently microchip you, turning you into one of their many heads of cattle  is this what you want?

"So-called 'wearables' are just setting us up for the ultimate invasive technology, representing a transition from the technocrats' surveillance technology being on our phones to it being on our bodies and finally inside our bodies," is how Hohmann explains the threat.

"This final stage of implanted technology seems to be forecast in Revelation 13 and other end-times' prophecies."

If you can stomach listening to and watching him, Harari explains in the below video his vision for the future of you and your family. Do not be fooled by his deception inclusion of himself into the matrix he presents  you can be sure that he and his family would be exempted from all this, despite how he words his propaganda:

"In September of 2018, I smashed my cell phone," one of Hohmann's readers wrote in the comments about all this. "My only digital contact is my private, premium Protonmail email account with VPN."

AI is of the devil, full stop. Find out more at FutureTech.news.

Sources for this article include:

LeoHohmann.substack.com

Breitbart.com

NaturalNews.com
Wealthy Zionist donors behind NYPD crackdown on Columbia U protests

A handful of wealthy Jewish billionaires plotted to persecute pro-Palestine protesters at Columbia University , a newly leaked series of chatlogs from WhatsApp appears to suggest

The Washington Post is credited with dropping the news about the private chat logs, which point to a cohort of Zionists that worked secretly to advance the interests of Israel by undermining Americans' free speech rights.

The billionaires paid politicians like New York City Mayor Eric Adams with "donations" to have the NYPD crack down on the campus protests.

Names on the list include:

Daniel Lubetzky, founder of Kind snack company

Daniel Loeb, hedge fund manager

Len Blavatnik

Joseph Sitt, real estate investor

These four held a Zoom call on April 26 with Mayor Adams during which they discussed ways to disperse the campus protesters. They spoke about transfer of money to get the job done, as well as about pressuring Columbia's president and trustees to get in on the action.

One member of the private WhatsApp group where these same topics were discussed admitted to donating $2,100, the maximum legal limit, to Adams that month as part of a bribery scheme. There was even chatter about paying private investigators to help the NYPD exert greater force.

A group of business people raised tens of millions of dollars to fund an information campaign against Hamas and win the war of US public opinion, while lobbying high level officials, and we are told that the Washington Post is antisemitic for reporting on it bc many but not https://t.co/cCRdAdEGgy pic.twitter.com/K3dUOTuTrX  Ryan Grim (@ryangrim) May 17, 2024

(Related: Did you know that the people of Gaza are just days away from running out of food?)

Just say no to Zionism

In the WhatsApp group, there were thousands of chat logs recorded that included names like Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, Dell founder and CEO Michael Dell, hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, Thrive Capital founder Joshua Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump's son-in-law.

There were apparently a few moles inside the group because someone leaked the contents of the chat, which were obviously supposed to remain private. Remaining members of the group reportedly verified that the leaked comments are legitimate.

One of billionaire real estate mogul Barry Sternlicht's staffers created the chat, though Sternlicht never actually joined and participated in the chat himself. He is apparently too good for such things and had the staffer do all his talking for him.

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.

This would later turn out to be a mistake as the staffer on October 12 of last year, just days after the Hamas attack on Israel, posted a message telling all the other members that the goal of the group was to "change the narrative" in favor of Israel by spreading tales about "the atrocities committed by Hamas ... to all Americans."

Titled "Israel Current Events," the group eventually expanded to reach multiple different countries and even the highest levels of the Israeli government. All in all, about 100 people participated in the chat, at least 12 of them having appeared on Forbes' annual list of billionaires.

Sternlicht, via his staffer, led a crusade online to help Israel "win the physical war" in Gaza, with group members also agreeing to "help win the war" of public opinion in the United States through a campaign they referred to in the chat as "Facts for Peace."

"I'm sensitive to concerns about being less effective if it appears that this is a Jewish initiative," the staffer wrote at one point on behalf of Sternlicht.

All throughout the ongoing conversation, the group's members were seeking guidance and information from officials in the Israeli government as well, which spent a lot of time and money forging a false narrative aimed at beckoning the most public sympathy for full-scale war in Gaza.

"Most appreciative for the behind the scenes briefing by Naftali Bennett," commented Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, in the group chat. "Quite extraordinary!"

As you might expect, nearly all of the members are overpaid moguls in real estate, finance and communications  you know, the types of people who control the world for their own personal benefit at everyone else's expense.

The end result of all this inside chatter was an amping up of the police state in New York City and elsewhere where students, professors and faculty are protesting against the atrocities Israel is committing in Gaza to "defend itself."

As for the Israeli government officials who were involved in the chat, none of them are showing any willingness to speak to the media about these latest revelations.

Unsurprising to see this Israeli reporter -- who was in the IDF reserves until last year and just won the top WH Press Award -- spreading anti-semitism accusations against the WashPost for its *true reporting* about various influence campaigns from pro-Israel billionaires. https://t.co/pdtXBZtW4W  Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) May 17, 2024

More related news about the conflict between Israel and Gaza can be found at IsraelCollapse.com.

Sources for this article include:

InformationLiberation.com

NaturalNews.com
Big Tech leads million-dollar campaign to kill bills that are meant to keep children safe online

Major tech companies, including Google, Meta and TikTok, are leading a million-dollar campaign to block two New York bills that claim to keep children safe online

Google, Meta and TikTok, along with PayPal, Snap, Roblox, eBay, Block, Tech: NYC and TechNet, have already spent $823,235 to influence the legislative process of the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act and the New York Child Data Protection Act, with total expenditures expected to surpass $1 million as more financial disclosures are released next month.

The SAFE Act, which aims to curb the addictive nature of social media algorithms for users under 18, mandates that social media feeds for minors default to a chronological order unless parents provide consent for algorithmic sorting. Additionally, the bill allows parents to set time limits on social media usage for their children. Meanwhile, the Child Data Protection Act prevents apps from collecting data and personal information from users under 18 without explicit consent. For children under 13, parental permission would be required for data collection.

However, tech companies argue that these bills will harm freedom of speech, online privacy for teens, internet access for marginalized groups and algorithmic moderation of hate speech.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has invested the most in lobbying against these bills. The tech company, which is already facing a federal lawsuit for allegedly profiting from a teen mental health crisis, wants consistent online experiences for teens across states. (Related: Meta intentionally got children and teens ADDICTED to social media to exploit them for profit.)

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.

"Teens move interchangeably between many websites and apps, and different laws in different states will mean teens and their parents have inconsistent experiences online," a Meta spokesperson said. "As we continue working with New York lawmakers, it's crucial that we avoid quick fixes and, instead, support legislation that actually empowers parents and supports teens online."

Influential trade groups like Tech: NYC and TechNet also oppose the bills. A February memo from Tech: NYC criticized the bills' inconsistent age verification policies and raised concerns about data privacy with common verification methods like ID or credit card scanning.

SAFE Act and Child Data Protection Act still get bipartisan support despite strong opposition

State Senator Andrew Gounardes, a co-sponsor of the bills, mentioned that opponents are conducting a vigorous "whisper campaign" in Albany to delay or block the legislation.

"It certainly makes the job a lot harder, because these companies, with limitless resources, are able to hire armies of lobbyists who just camp out in the capital all day," Gounardes said. "Legislators come and go and these folks are whispering in everyone's ear."

But despite the strong opposition, the bills are poised to advance in the State Assembly and Senate soon. The SAFE Act has garnered support from 94 sponsors in the State Assembly and 25 sponsors in the State Senate.

Gounardes noted that there is a "significant bipartisan support for both bills in the Senate."

"At this point, I feel reasonably confident that we will be able to achieve something significant for kids on social media this legislative session," the state senator stated.

Learn more about the potentially illicit activities of social media companies at TechGiants.news.

Watch this video video about Meta targeting children.

This video is from the TNP (The New Prisoners) channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

New Mexico attorney general files lawsuit against Meta for allowing pedophiles on Facebook and Instagram to CONTACT CHILDREN.

Former Meta director says Instagram FAILED to protect teen users.

Mark Zuckerbergs Meta struggling to remove child sexual abuse materials from Facebook and Instagram.

42 Attorneys general SUE Meta over highly addictive social media platforms they say harm young people.

Europe hits TikTok with $368 million fine for mishandling childrens personal info.

Sources include:

ThePostMillenial.com

NewYorkPost.com
HYPOCRITE: Climate advocate Mark Zuckerberg slammed for purchasing $300M superyacht

Critics are up in arms after billionaire Mark Zuckerberg allegedly purchased a $300 million superyacht . One of the world's richest men and founder of Meta, Zuckerberg has reportedly spent millions on the superyacht he christened Launchpad.

The sleek superyacht looks like something out of a movie, with stunning features and cutting-edge tech, but critics have called the billionaire's recent purchase a "climate hypocrite's hideaway." Zuckerberg's new yacht became a social media sensation shortly after a viral TikTok video capturing its impressive visuals was posted online.

Launchpad is currently docked in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The superyacht spans 118 meters and it made its maiden voyage in March across the Atlantic. Launchpad was designed by the Swedish-based Espen Oin International and built by the Dutch shipyard Feadship.

The superyacht features "a sleek, multilayered exterior with a robust steel hull and an [aluminum] superstructure," according to SuperYacht Times. (Related: Mark Zuckerberg commissioning secret DOOMSDAY BUNKER in Hawaii, complete with blast-resistant door.)

Launchpad has a gross tonnage of 5,000 gross tons and it can cruise at speeds of up to 24 knots, or approximately 27 miles per hour, providing an impressive cruising experience for the billionaire owner.

The superyacht also holds the distinction of being the 45th largest yacht in the world. Launchpad even has a helipad in case Zuckerberg changes his mind and wants to catch a sudden flight while traveling the seas.

With his alleged purchase of the superyacht Launchpad, Zuckerberg joins other tech billionaires who also own superyachts, including Jeff Bezos, Larry Ellison and Google cofounders Sergey Brin and Larry Page.

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.

Zuckerberg branded a "climate hypocrite"

While Zuckerberg's expensive new yacht has the internet in a frenzy, some mocked the expensive purchase. Some were also confused by the billionaire's choice of transportation.

The internet has poked fun at Zuckerberg, who is a vocal advocate for fighting climate change. The internet previously questioned why the Meta owner has a private jet that allegedly burned over $158,000 worth of fuel within two months.

Launchpad is also being criticized as yachting is one of the most polluting activities an individual can engage in. To illustrate, Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich's yachts reportedly emit more than 22,000 tons of carbon a year, exceeding the emissions of some small countries.

Meanwhile, Bezos' $500 million yacht, Koru, is another most-polluting billionaire purchase that contributes over 7,000 tons of carbon annually.

While Zuckerberg's superyacht's environmental toll remains to be seen, the stark juxtaposition with his outspoken climate activism has sparked online debates.

One user posted on X: "Hey look its Mark Zuckerbergs yacht. Im sure him flying private jets with Bill Gates is helping to plan it though. It's all our fault instead."

Some people have also speculated that Zuckerberg spent his 40th birthday on the superyacht Launchpad after his recent online posts.

For months, rumors have been circulating that the Meta founder purchased Launchpad. But in the yachting world, where privacy is valued, no one would confirm the superyacht's owner.

Feadship, the ship's builder, claimed last March it is "standard policy to never divulge any information about our yachts with reference to ownership, costs or delivery, etc." Representatives for Zuckerberg did not respond to requests for comment about the superyacht.

However, there is more evidence proving that Zuckerberg owns Launchpad. The superyacht arrived in Panama on May 14, having made its way there from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A private jet tracker also showed that Zuckerberg's plane landed in Panama on the same day. Judging by his Instagram post, there is a strong indication that Zuckerberg was on board.

With these clues and other details linking Zuckerberg to the superyacht, many believe that he is likely now traveling in his expensive new superyacht.

Visit MetaTyranny.com for more stories about Zuckerberg and Meta.

Watch the video below for a closer look at the superyacht Launchpad in Fort Lauderdale.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Rosemount, Minnesota trying to establish 15-minute city with the help of Zuckerbergs Meta.

Billionaires like Bill Gates are predicting a coming food crisis and preparing by building survival bunkers.

Zero-emission truck company founder sentenced to 4 years in prison for lying about companys tech and achievements.

REPORT: Combined wealth of American billionaires has skyrocketed by 87.6% since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

HindustanTimes.com

Twitter.com

BusinessInsider.com

Brighteon.com
Corrupt Congress pushing U.S. into World War III with Russia

Rather than work towards negotiating a peace deal in diplomatic fashion, the United States Congress is begging for World War III with Russia

Following a meeting with Ukrainian members of parliament (MPs) this week, members of Congress issued a plea for Kiev to receive a much larger war chest to continue fruitlessly fighting back against Russia.

There is no way the Zelensky regime can win the war, of course, but that does not mean Western backers are planning to stop pouring your tax dollars into trying. After all, what do they have to lose? It's your cash they're stealing.

The grouping of congressmen is pushing Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to not only expand Ukraine's war chest but also give the green light for Ukraine to start striking Russian territory with American weapons.

In a letter, these and other requests were made that are sure to lead the U.S. straight into WWIII.

(Related: Congress is also suffering a meltdown over the ICC's issuance of arrest warrants for the leaders of both Israel and Hamas.)

America's leaders are insane

The main request in the above-linked letter is what could become the trigger for WWIII. Russia has repeatedly made it clear that other countries that get directly involved in striking Russian territory are open game for an attack.

Even so, the congressmen want Austin to authorize "the use of U.S.-provided weapons to strike strategic targets within Russian territory under certain circumstances."

It is hard to say if the Biden regime will grant the request or not, seeing as how last week Defense Department spokeswoman Sabrina Singh reiterated the Pentagon's stance that American weapons can and will only be deployed in order to "take back Ukrainian sovereign territory," and not to target Russia directly.

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.

The letter's signatories include:

Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Mike Turner

Ranking committee member Jim Himes

Former president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Gerry Connolly

These three are begging the U.S. deep state to dump more cash and weapons into Ukraine because "Ukrainians have been unable to defend themselves due to the [President Joe Biden] Administration's current policy."

In order to ensure that Kiev's commanders are equipped "to conduct a full spectrum of operations," it is "essential" for more American weapons and money to be shipped off to Zelensky immediately.

Ukrainian MPs are all about this as well since they will profit heavily from it. They especially have their eyes on obtaining more billion-dollar U.S.-made "Patriot" batteries, which the U.S. says it can no longer afford to send.

Aleksandr Litvinenko, the head of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, complained to the Financial Times this week that the Biden regime's restrictions on American-made weaponry being used to target Russian territory are "absolutely unfair."

If the U.S. would only send more weapons and cash, then Ukraine could "stymie" Moscow's advances along the front line, as well as target Russian arms depots, logistics hubs and oil refineries deep within its territory.

Russia, meanwhile, is staging tactical nuclear "drills" that involve the delivery of nuclear weapons to troops from storage sites. These same drills also involve arming nuclear missiles and preparing them for launch, which sounds a whole lot like WWIII in the making, does it not?

"These congressmen should be arrested for treason and held in solitary confinement in a D.C. jail," one commenter at RT wrote about these latest developments.

"Their districts should be voided. South Carolina can certainly do without Lindsey Graham. He knows the U.S. military is in bad shape, F-35s are unreliable, Austin and the joint chiefs of staff are all DEI figureheads and we have no fuel."

Nobody wants WWIII except the greedy private central bankers and their political puppets. Learn more at WWIII.news.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

House.gov

NaturalNews.com
FAA raises alarm about fuel-laden wings exploding on 300 Boeing planes used by American and United Airlines

Three hundred Boeing planes that are currently being used by popular U.S. airlines have a flaw that could cause fires or explosions.

This is according to the FAA, who proposed a new airworthiness directive earlier this year about an electrical fault seen on 777 jets used by American and United Airlines. If the flaws in question are not addressed, the fuel tanks on the wings of the plane could catch on fire and explode.

They reported the problem in March and asked Boeing and outside experts to respond by May 9; it is not known if they have addressed this yet. The FAA requested that they install new electrical bonding and grounding to prevent electrostatic discharge near the air intake systems on the center-wing fuel tanks.

According to FAA projections, a safety fix for this dangerous problem would cost Boeing less than $700,000 in total across all of the vulnerable aircraft, while the parts needed to eliminate the explosion risk would cost less than $100 per plane. The companys market cap is $113 billion, so the idea that they would ignore safety over such a trivial amount of money is enough to make anyone steer clear from their aircraft.

However, a spokesperson for Boeing claimed that the notice was merely part of a standard regulatory process that has helped ensure air travel is the safest form of transportation. This is not an immediate safety of flight issue.

Although they are doing their best to try to reassure passengers, Boeing has been plagued with scandals recently, with a lengthy list of problems that include mid-air engine fires, door plug blowouts and fatal crashes.

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.

At a recent Senate hearing, a former quality engineer for Boeing, Sam Salehpour, said: "Despite what Boeing officials state publicly, there is no safety culture at Boeing.

I observed Boeing workers using improper and untested methods to align parts in the 777," he added.

He said that he even observed workers jumping on top of parts of the plane in an attempt to get them to align.

Moreover, when Salehpour raised the alarm over even more serious risks involving their 787 Dreamliners, he was involuntarily transferred to the 777 program in retaliation."

He explained: I was ignored, I was told not to create delays, I was told, frankly, to shut up.

Boeing has experienced multiple scandals in recent months

Its been a tough year for Boeing, who started out 2024 with a door plug falling out from one of its 737 Max 9 planes while it was 16,000 feet in the air. The Alaska Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency landing, and several objects reportedly flew out of the plane. However, a bigger crisis was averted as no one happened to be sitting there. Following the incident, the FAA grounded 171 737 Max 9s. An anonymous whistleblower later said that Boeing failed to reinstall the panel properly after removing it for repairs.

An FAA audit of Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems found multiple instances where the companies allegedly failed to comply with manufacturing quality control requirements related to the door plug incident, and the head of the NTSB accused them of not cooperating with their investigation.

In March, a gear collapse caused a United Airlines 737 Max 8 to veer off the runway; it ended up lying flat on its wings on the side of the runway as passengers were evacuated using an emergency gate ladder.

Then, a former quality control manager and long-term employee of Boeing who became a whistleblower was found dead in his truck; he had made a series of complaints to his bosses at the company and suggested the company had been cutting corners. Another whistleblower died suddenly in May.

Sources for this article include:

DailyMail.co.uk

DailyMail.co.uk
Klaus Schwab STEPS DOWN as World Economic Forum executive chairman

Globalist Klaus Schwab is set to step down from his role as executive chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF), but there's no reason to celebrate just yet.

The 86-year-old German engineer and economist founded the WEF in 1971 under its original name, the European Management Forum. A person connected to the WEF shared with Semafor a May 21 email by Schwab to staffers that outlined his plans to step down. Schwab has been serving as the WEF's executive chair since its establishment.

According to the email, the WEF founder will relinquish his position as executive chairman to transition to a non-executive chairmanship. He added that the change in his role is pending approval by the Swiss government. A WEF spokesperson confirmed Schwab's departure from the position in a statement, saying that he "will transition from executive chairman to chairman of the board of trustees" by January 2025.

"Since 2015, the WEF has been transforming from a convening platform to the leading global institution for public-private cooperation. As part of that transformation, the organization has also been undergoing a planned governance evolution from a founder-managed organization to one where a president and managing board assume full executive responsibility," the statement continued.

According to Semafor, the WEF "operates much like a family business." Schwab's wife Hilde heads the organization's foundation and awards ceremonies in the Swiss city of Davos, while his children are appointed to high-ranking positions.

The outlet also added that despite being a nonprofit, the WEF is a "remarkable business." A report by Semafor from last year found that the organization brought in nearly $500 million in revenue in the year ending March 2023. It also found that the WEF had cash reserves amounting to 200 million Swiss francs ($218.36 million).

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.

Schwab's departure not a cause for celebration

"In recent years, the [WEF] has shifted its focus toward the center and away from liberal politics," Semafor previously stated, adding that the move followed the group "navigating a difficult political landscape."

Schwab himself has kept silent about his successor as the WEF's executive chair. However, he said that over the last year, the group's executive board "under the leadership of [WEF] President Borge Brende has taken full executive responsibility." Before assuming the WEF's presidency in 2017, Brende served as minister of the environment, trade and foreign affairs in his home country of Norway.

Several conservative commentators have remarked that Schwab's decision to step down from his leadership role in the WEF is no cause for celebration.

"Schwab stepping down may appear to be a good thing, and it probably is, but I'd be surprised if the person who takes his place isn't just as radical and dangerous," said Joel Ellenwood of Infinite Zeal Syndicate. "The WEF is an evil organization and should be resisted at all costs, regardless of who's in charge."

Kris Eriksen, a former staffer at the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in Canada, also noted Schwab's departure as the WEF's executive chair. He reminded users to "never forget how he openly admitted to subverting governments and the role he has played in creating the Great Reset." (Related: Whistleblower calls for WEF founder Klaus Schwab to be ARRESTED over "crimes against humanity.")

Even 100 Percent Fed Up couldn't help but point out that "despite the impending change in leadership, Schwab stepping down as executive chairman is nothing to celebrate. The WEF's globalist agenda will move forward regardless of whoever fills the role."

Watch InfoWars founder Alex Jones discussing Klaus Schwab's resignation as the World Economic Forum's executive chairman in the clip below.

This video is from the Rick Langley channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Critics blast Klaus Schwab, WEF for trying to "master the future" with global enslavement agenda.

Klaus Schwab issues THREAT to Brazilian president for refusing to sign WHO pandemic treaty.

Globalist Klaus Schwab called for implantable "global health pass" microchip back in 2016.

WEF globalist Klaus Schwab declares unvaccinated people to be a threat to humanity.

Klaus Schwab: 'God is dead' and the WEF is 'acquiring divine powers.'

Sources include:

100PercentFedUp.com

Semafor.com

CNBC.com

Brighteon.com
Migrants rushing to cross the US southern border before Biden loses in November

Migrants are now rushing to cross the border in fear that the potential victory of former President Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election will mean stronger immigration policies and the shutting down of the southern border.

Among those migrants are Colombian brothers Ricardo, 20, and Sebastian, 18, who illegally crossed the Arizona border earlier this May. The brothers, who received assistance at the Yuma Regional Center for Border Health, fear that if President Joe Biden loses re-election in November, Trump might shut down the border in his return to office.

"We think with the elections, it will be harder," Ricardo said while waiting for a bus to the Phoenix airport, where they would catch a flight to New Jersey to reunite with their mother. "We dont want Trump." (Related: Trump to GO HARD against ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS and human traffickers if elected for a second term.)

After crossing the southern border, Ricardo and Sebastian turned themselves in to Border Patrol agents in Yuma. They cited threats from criminals in Colombia as the reason for their flight. In turn, Border Patrol agents released them to a local nonprofit aid group, which assisted them in preparing for their initial asylum hearings scheduled for October.

Meanwhile, their mother, who eagerly awaits their arrival in New Jersey, expressed relief over the phone when she learned of their safe passage.

Trump is really planning on shutting down the border once re-elected as president

Illegal immigrants have the right to fear Trump regarding shutting down the border. In a recent interview, Trump also revealed the possibility of building migrant detention camps and the deployment of the military at the border and inland to carry out his deportation operation.

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.

"I would not rule anything out," said Trump during the interview. "There wouldnt be that much of a need for them, because of the fact that were going to be moving them out. Were going to bring them back from where they came. Its possible that well do it to an extent but we shouldnt have to do very much of it, because were going to be moving them out as soon as we get to it. And well be obviously starting with the criminal element."

Similarly, in a Dec. 17 campaign rally in Reno, Nevada, Trump vowed to launch and oversee the biggest deportation of illegals in U.S. history if he gets elected for a second term in November.

"Given the unprecedented millions of Biden illegal aliens who are invading our country, it is only common sense that when I'm reelected, we will begin  and we have no choice  the largest deportation operation in American history," he told the crowd in Reno at that time.

Trump also denounced the immigration policies of Biden, so he promised that on his first day in the White House, he would "terminate every open-borders policy of the Biden administration." He also promised to invoke the Alien Enemies Act, to remove "all known or suspected gang members, drug dealers or cartel members" from the United States.

Aside from mass deportation, Trump also pledged to implement strict ideological screening for all immigrants seeking entry to the United States. In a campaign event back in October, he warned that those who support radical Islamic terrorism, wish to abolish Israel or back Hamas and the ideology behind it would be "disqualified" from potential citizenship. Communists, Marxists and fascists would likewise be disqualified.

He also promised to suspend refugee resettlement once more and reinstate a travel ban on predominantly Muslim countries he put in place during his term, with a planned expansion. Trump also vowed to proactively deploy Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to address pro-jihadist demonstrations and remove immigration law violators from the country.

The former president cited the Oct. 7 Hamas attack as a main factor behind his proposal, and his advocacy toward hardline immigration issues.

"The atrocities in Israel are a horrific reminder that immigration security is national security. The purpose of U.S. immigration law is not to protect the world  it's to protect the United States of America." Trump said.

Watch the clip below that talks about illegals and American citizens being pitted against each other.

This video is from the SamsTwitch channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

NYC Mayor Adams: Illegal immigration under Biden has become a NATIONAL CRISIS.

DeSantis signs anti-illegal immigration bill mandating that businesses ban undocumented workers.

Ann Vandersteel: American Red Cross aiding ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION at southern border  Brighteon.TV.

This needs to STOP! Tax dollars are being used to fund ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION across America.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams warns illegal immigrants will DESTROY the city.

Sources include:

Modernity.news 1

NYPost.com

Modernity.news 2

RT.com

TheEpochTimes.com

Brighteon.com
Narrative collapse: There was NO FOG when Iranian presidents helicopter crashed

In a May 21 interview that appeared on the Islamic of Iran News Network (IRINN), Gholam Hossein Esmaili, chief of staff of the late Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi, described the final moments as he recalled them before the helicopter the leaders were in crashed. And according to his account, there wasas the Western media claimed.

There were three helicopters in the convoy  Esmaili was on one of the two that safely reached its destination  but the one Raisi, his foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and seven of their companions were on crashed near the Iranian border with Azerbaijan.

Esmaili revealed that after saying their noontime prayers, the convoy departed towards Tabriz. The weather was clear with "no weather condition to be worried about," he said.

"After half an hour of being in the air, prior to reaching the Sungun copper mine, there was a small patch of clouds," Esmaili continued.

"So there was no fog?" the interviewer asked in response.

"Not at all," Esmaili responded. "There was fog on the ground, but not up in the air where we were advancing with the helicopters. However, in one small compacted area, there was a small patch of clouds above a cliff. In terms of height, this cloud was at the same height as our flight's height."

The full interview is available below:

(Related: Check out our earlier report about Raisi's mysterious helicopter crash.)

What really happened?

Upon approaching the small patch of clouds, the helicopter pilot on Raisi's aircraft  he was also the commander of the entire fleet  told the others to ascend above the clouds.

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.

"We were third behind the president's helicopter," Esmaili explained. "We rose above the clouds and advanced for approximately 30 seconds. Our pilot suddenly realized that the main helicopter carrying the president was missing."

Esmaili explained that nothing out of the ordinary seemed to happen during this time. The two helicopters ascended as directed without issue. There was not even any turbulence, and after reaching the new height there were no more clouds to be seen.

"So beyond this, there were no weather forecasts mentioning any disturbances in the weather to make it unsafe?" the interviewer then asked.

"No, there wasn't any," Esmaili responded. "Shortly after, we were able to see beneath us, and there were no clouds anymore, and we had reached the area of the copper mine."

"We realized, however, that our pilot was making a U-turn suddenly, so I asked him why. He said that one of our helicopters was missing. We estimate that they made an emergency landing because we also have no radio contact with it anymore. So I asked him when was the last time contact was made? The pilot answered, 'A minute and 30 seconds ago when the pilot told us to ascend above the clouds.'"

After circling around a few times and not seeing anything except the cloud patch, it was decided that the best next course of action was simply to land. Numerous attempts at making radio contact failed, and within 30 seconds the other helicopters in the convoy were on the ground.

All during the flight, there were continuous calls taking place with the various passengers on the copters, including the president's bodyguard, Abdollahian, and the governor of East Azerbaijan, as well as the Friday imam of Tabriz.

"However," Esmaili said following the one copter's disappearance, "we tried calling all of them without luck."

Someone eventually picked up the cellphone of the captain accompanying the now-deceased president. He said he did not feel well and had no idea what happened, but that he was surrounded by trees and could not see any of the others.

More related news coverage can be found at Conspiracy.news.

Sources for this article include:

TheCradle.co

NaturalNews.com
Outraged Israel recalls ambassadors from Spain, Norway, Ireland over recognition of Palestinian state

The decades-long cause to push toward establishing a state of Palestine has just gotten a big boost out of Europe, as the countries of Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced Wednesday that they would recognize a Palestinian state.

(Article by Tyler Durden republished from ZeroHedge.com)

They are the latest to join some 140 countries globally, which constitute more than two-thirds of the United Nations, who recognize a Palestinian state. The formal recognition will take place May 28, and comes as the official Palestinian death toll put out by Gaza's Health Ministry approaches 36,000 since Oct.7.

This is also yet another blow to Israel's reputation on the world stage coming the very same week the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague issued an arrest warrant for Prime Minister Netanyahu and his defense chief.

Norway led the announcement among the three countries, with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre saying, "In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike." He declared this means "Two states, living side by side, in peace and security."

Shortly following this Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said from Dublin that this move will "offer hope and encouragement to the people of Palestine at one of their darkest hours."

And Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in an address to parliament sought to emphasize that "This recognition is not against anyone, it is not against the Israeli people." He characterized that it is "an act in favor of peace, justice and moral consistency."

Israel's reaction has been fierce and swift, with Foreign Minister Israel Katz confirming he immediately recalled Israel's ambassadors to Oslo, Dublin and Madrid while ordering a "severe Demarche" all of their envoys in Israel.

"History will remember that Spain, Norway, and Ireland decided to award a gold medal to Hamas murderers and rapists," Katz said.

JUST IN: Spain will officially recognize the State of Palestine on May 28. Echoing the majority feeling of the Spanish people, next Tuesday, May 28, Spain will approve in its Council of Ministers the recognition of the State of Palestine. pic.twitter.com/cClNi3SxFj  Truth In Media (@Truth_InMedia) May 22, 2024

Head of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, President Mahmoud Abbas, hailed the three countries' recognition and urged all other nations to "recognize our legitimate rights and support the struggle of our people for liberation and independence."

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide in follow-up told the Associated Press, "We used to think that recognition would come at the end of a process." He added: "Now we have realized that recognition should come as an impetus, as a strengthening of a process."

? Today at 6 p.m. ?? (4 p.m. ??), a gut-wrenching video will be released showing the violent abduction and treatment of Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy 228 days ago. These are just some of the screenshots from the horrifying video captured pic.twitter.com/qLID1CfLhd  Tzipi Hotovely (@TzipiHotovely) May 22, 2024

Meanwhile, Israel plans to continue hitting back against what it sees as essentially a 'reward' for terrorism. The Times of Israel announced Wednesday in a headline: "Footage to be released of abduction of soldiers Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy."

Read more at: ZeroHedge.com
The migrant crisis is how Rome fell  Its our turn this time

Merrick Garland, Attorney General, is truly a national disgrace. The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a suit against Oklahoma today over a state law that seeks toon those living in the state illegally. The law makes illegal aliens subject to two years in prison for living in the state without legal immigration status. Garland is trying to make sure illegal aliens are here for the 2024 election so they can continue their coup and deprive the rich, whom they define as people with jobs. They claim they they will not raise taxes on income of $400,000 or less, but they fail to define their definition that this is HOUSEHOLD income. If you have two children still living at home and all four of you combined exceed $400,000, you are the hated rich whom the Democrats want to exploit all for people who produce nothing and want a free ride.

(Article republished from ArmstrongEconomics.com)

Similar laws passed in Texas and Iowa are already facing challenges from Garland, who has the audacity to tell Congress that ISs are not necessary for voting. Oklahoma is among several states trying to protect their own people against this invasion that at no time in history has ANY president sought to rig the election with illegal aliens. We are rapidly witnessing the very reason why the United States will break up. Similar circumstances took place in the Roman Empire, where Emperor Valens opened the border to illegal aliens and destroyed the economy. They eventually rose up against the government, demanding more, and Emperor Valens was then killed in battle by the very people he allowed in.

Other bills targeting migrants have been passed this year in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. Garland claims that this Oklahoma law violates the U.S. Constitution and asks the court to declare it invalid and bar the state from enforcing it.

Oklahoma cannot disregard the U.S. Constitution and settled Supreme Court precedent, U.S. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Departments Civil Division, said in a statement. We have brought this action to ensure that Oklahoma adheres to the Constitution and the framework adopted by Congress for regulation of immigration.

Because this is a real international crisis, I have put together this report, which is a warning to the West that this migrant crisis is part of the decline and fall of Western society, as it was the same mistake for Rome. In fact, it was the invasion of the Goths that changed Roman society, and even our word today for god was derived from barbarians, not Romans. Most interesting, this invasion of the Goths was so profound that to this day, our English word god is derived from the Proto-Germanic version of gud?, which is derived from the Goths Germanic language, gu. So, the next time you pray to God, remember that was a barbarian word  not Roman, which was Deus  the Latin word for god or deity.

Read more at: ArmstrongEconomics.com
Poll reveals Sen. Tim Scott the most favored vice presidential pick for Trump

A recent Harvard-Harris poll reveals that voters are more inclined to support former President Donald Trump if he picks Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) as his running mate

Scott's rise in the ranks of potential vice presidential candidates follows his endorsement of Trump ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Since then, Scott has become a frequent and fervent surrogate, offering robust support on the campaign trail and in media appearances. This unwavering backing has not gone unnoticed by Trump and his inner circle.

"We need a president who will unite our country  we need Donald Trump," Scott declared during his endorsement speech at a rally in Concord, New Hampshire in January. The rise of Scott is reflected in the recent Harvard-Harris poll.

The poll, conducted among 1,660 voters on May 15 and 16, places Scott ahead of other prominent contenders in the Republican Party, with 25 percent of voters stating they would be more likely to support a Trump-Scott ticket. This positions him ahead of entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who got 23 percent of those polled, and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), who received 22 percent.

Other contenders include Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York (19 percent), Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota (16 percent), Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota (15 percent) and former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii (13 percent).

The poll did not mention Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio and Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, both of whom have been mentioned as Trump's possible running mates. (Related: Roger Stone: Trump needs someone who has the temperament and judgment of a "to-be president"  definitely not Nikki Haley.)

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 singles out Scott as possible VP pick in different interviews

This is not the first time Scott's name has been floated as a potential running mate for Trump.

In a town hall moderated by Fox News host Laura Ingraham in February, Trump himself mentioned Scott as a possible choice while showering praise on the senator.

"You have to have somebody that would be a good president. A lot of people are talking about that gentleman over there, Trump told Ingraham while pointing to Scott. "He's been so great, such a great advocate. Tim Scott, he has been better for me than for himself. I watched his campaign and he doesn't like talking about himself, he talks about Trump. I said, Tim, you are better for me than for yourself. He's fantastic and a fantastic person."

In a separate interview with Fox News host Maria Bartiromo that same month, Trump mentioned Scott when discussing possible vice presidential picks.

"I called Tim Scott this week, because a lot of people like Tim Scott," Trump said. "I called him, and I said: You are a much better candidate for me than you are for yourself. It could be a lot of people. But it was interesting. I watched him over the last two weeks. As you know, he endorsed me, fully endorsed me, gave me a beautiful endorsement, and he has been really strong in terms of that, but  I dont want anybody to take even any inference. But it's incredible."

Visit VoteRepublican.news for more stories about the Republican Party.

Watch Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) denouncing the classic Democratic Party strategy of using "racism" to describe the politics of its opponents.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Sen. Tim Scott visits Dallas to congratulate its mayor for joining the Republican Party.

Sen. Tim Scott warns about dangers of "woke supremacy" after being called a token black Republican.

Trump campaign senior adviser denies RFK Jr.s claim they approached him to be Trumps vice president.

Vivek Ramaswamy campaigns for Donald Trump after dropping out of the presidential race.

Donald Trump Jr. says Tucker Carlson would be a good VICE PRESIDENT for his dad.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

DailyCaller.com

NBCNews.com

Brighteon.com
White House moves toward lifting ban on Ukraine striking targets deep inside Russia with U.S. weapons

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has indicated that the White House could allow Ukraine to strike inside Russian territory using arms supplied by the U.S. in news that should make all clear-headed Americans very uneasy.

Kiev is currently banned from attacking Russian forces like those amassing near Kharkiv Oblast for an offensive using advanced American weapons such as ATACMS missiles.

However, official sources told the New York Times that this could be about to change at the behest of Blinken, and the State Department is currently engaged in a vigorous debate about this policy.

The paper reports that the Kharkiv situation is what changed Blinkens mind. Russian forces have placed weapons just across the border from northeastern Ukraine, aiming them directly at Kharkiv while knowing that Ukrainian soldiers wont be allowed to use American weaponry to respond. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that this gives Russia a huge advantage.

The head of the Ukrainian parliamentary commission on arms and ammunition, Oleksandra Ustinova, said: "(T)hey (Russia) know there is a restriction for Ukrainians to shoot at the Russian territory. And we saw all of their military equipment sitting one or two kilometers from the border (near Kharkiv), and there was nothing we could do."

Blinken recently returned from a two-day visit to Kiev and was asked about the recent complaints from Ukraine that they cannot attack Russian forces thanks to the ban.

"We've not enabled or encouraged strikes outside of Ukraine, but ultimately, Ukraine has to make decisions for itself about how it's going to conduct this war," which would seem to imply that if Ukraine decided to do so, they would not stop them.

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 United States has united 50 countries over the past two years to ensure Ukrainian defense, and provided it with the weapons it needs to defend and repel Russian aggression," he added.

It is not yet known how many officials would support this proposal, which is reportedly still in its formative stages, but it does appear that it would have some restrictions. For example, it may allow Ukrainian forces to strike Russian military facilities but could ban them from striking infrastructure such as oil refineries.

Changes to policy could lead to a dangerous escalation in tensions between U.S. and Russia

Until now, Biden has been insistent on banning this type of activity out of fears that it could cause a dangerous escalation with Russia, but the fact that these discussions are now taking place could mean that some insiders believe there is a chance he could change his mind.

At a press conference earlier this week, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin indicated that there could be different rules pertaining to aerial targets. After reiterating the Biden administrations stance on the matter, saying that our expectation is that they continue to use the weapons that weve provided on targets inside of Ukraine, he added: The aerial dynamics a little bit different.

The UK has already lifted its own restrictions, allowing Ukrainian forces to use its Storm Shadow cruise systems to target Russia. British Foreign Secretary David Cameron recently visited Kiev and said that Ukraine absolutely has the right to strike back at Russia.

The New York Times also reported that the U.S. is considering training Ukrainian troops inside of Ukraine instead of German training grounds. This would mean that American military personnel would need to be sent to Ukraine, which is another move that Biden has been firmly against in the past.

Sources for this article include:

X.com

KyivIndependent.com

NYTimes.com
Over 110,000 businesses and homes experienced widespread power outages in parts of Texas due to rounds of storms, according to a weather report.

The end of May is expected to unleash more severe storms, including isolated tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flooding.

According to a report by the NWS Storm Prediction Center on May 24, a severe thunderstorm outlook could threaten portions of southern to eastern Nebraska this week, including in western Iowa and Kansas. The main risks are severe winds, reaching up to 85 mph.

As Memorial Day weekend arrives, residents in parts of the south-central U.S. should watch out for dangerous road conditions and poor weather outlook. Checking the weather is essential before traveling this weekend.

Texas weather conditions: Widespread power outage

A weather report on May 23 showed that portions of Texas encountered deadly weather conditions due to storms. The report noted the frequency of severe weather in the country and warned of potential developing storms next week.

Residents of Texas had to worry about isolated tornadoes and flooding rainfall. The region and other states in the central U.S. are vulnerable to severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes. Due to a life-threatening weather outlook, a disaster declaration was issued in the City of Temple.

The report warns of dangerous road conditions, including twisters. Additionally, over 110,000 businesses and homes experienced power outages due to storms. The strong winds can damage powerlines and homes, particularly mobile homes.

In other areas, northern Indiana can expect rounds of severe storms on Friday or Sunday, causing flooding concerns and thunderstorms. There is a low chance of tornadoes, but homeowners should remain alert for severe thunderstorms.

For Memorial Day weekend, the latest advisories remind commuters to stay alert for frequent lightning and thunderstorms. Millions of Americans are expected to travel and are at risk of severe weather conditions.

Also Read: Oklahoma, Kansas Memorial Day Forecast: Severe Weather Packed with Tornadoes, Hail to Disrupt

High temperatures this weekend: Where Will Unload?

Meanwhile, NWS Austin / San Antonio warns of possible early-season heat this late week or on the holiday weekend. Travelers are advised to watch out for scorching temperatures that can impact children, the elderly, people with medical conditions, newborns, and outdoor workers.

Additionally, sweltering heat can occur in some parts of the country, particularly on Memorial Day weekend. According to a weather report, high temperatures and challenging heat are forecast in the following areas:

Odessa

Dallas

San Antonio

Corpus Christi

Little Rock

Jackson

New Orleans

Jackson

Montgomery

Jacksonville

Tampa

Miami

Raleigh

Richmond

On Saturday, Denver, Billings, Kansas City, Memphis, Dallas, Charlotte, and Washington are likely to experience a chance of rain. Considering the weather outlook this weekend, it is best to check the forecasts for high temperatures, and severe weather.

Related Article: Northeast I-95 Corridor Weather: Severe Thunderstorms Likely to Bring Challenging Commutes

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
The latest weather report warns of potential frequent lightning and hail conditions in the Central and Southern Plains this week, bringing frequent lightning and hail conditions.

People with travel plans should consider the weather in the region for potential severe thunderstorm threats, causing slower commutes and power outages.

In an NWS weather report on May 23, the forecast warns of severe thunderstorms in the Great Plains this week, warning of severe winds reaching up to 75 mph. Potential tornadoes can also occur.

For Houston residents, the latest weather report noted that a severe weather outlook could hit portions of Houston, with lightning risks in Madison and Houston counties. Residents should also keep alert for hail and tornado risks.

Central and Southern Plains Weather Conditions

On the weekend, an NWS report for May 24 to May 26 shows that enhanced risks of severe thunderstorms could threaten the Central and Southern Plains. People with travel plans should consider the weather before leaving homes, particularly for Memorial Day weekend.

Additionally, excessive rainfall is possible in the Southern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, Tennessee Valley, and Ohio Valley. Communities in low-lying areas are at risk of potential flooding. For commuters, it is best to consider the weather for flooded roads, which can cause slower commutes and travel hazards.

The forecast also monitors possible severe thunderstorms in the Plains. People should be alert for frequent lightning, strong hail, and tornadoes. On Memorial Day weekend, it is best to check the weather outlook first due to hazardous weather forecasts.

In other areas, thunderstorm conditions can hit the Northeast Coast to the Mid-Atlantic, spreading over Maine, Ohio, and Tennessee Valleys. Additionally, heavy precipitation is likely in the Upper Great Lakes, and Upper Mississippi Valley.

Meanwhile, Southern Texas residents can anticipate a hotter temperature this weekend, and heat advisories are issued in the region. The warming trend can spread over Southern Florida and the Central Gulf Coast.

On Saturday, flash floods, and tornadoes can unload in the following areas:

Wichita

Kansas City

Springfield City

Oklahoma City

Tulsa

Wichita Falls

Dallas

Little Rock

Fort Smith

Dallas

The latest report in Des Moines warns of possible lingering storms this weekend. On Friday, commuters can face a line of storms impacting parts of western Iowa.

Also Read: Oklahoma, Kansas Memorial Day Forecast: Severe Weather Packed with Tornadoes, Hail to Disrupt

Severe Weather Preparedness in Late May

As severe weather looms in portions of the U.S., particularly on Memorial Day weekend, commuters should keep updated with the latest weather information, including flooding and tornado advisories.

Furthermore, emergency kits are life-savers in challenging situations in the South-Central U.S. Storing emergency supplies will be extremely helpful, and it is best to keep a battery-powered flashlight, canned goods, batteries, medicine kits, and bottled water.

Related Article: Northeast I-95 Corridor Weather: Severe Thunderstorms Likely to Bring Challenging Commutes

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
The Tonga volcano eruption in 2022 was a powerful blast from an underwater mountain. The natural disaster sent volcanic ash and water vapor into the atmosphere and generated tsunami waves which swept through the Tongan islands in the Pacific Ocean. The catastrophic event killed multiple people, destroyed of hundreds of structures, and displaced over a thousand others in the region.

Following the major Tonga eruption in January 2022, multiple studies have described the causes, nature, and implications of the event to communities and the environment. The volcanic explosion has been described by scientists as a rare "Plinian eruption." From triggering atmospheric shockwaves to global mega-tsunamis, the eruption was perceived by many to be caused by the reaction between magma and seawater.

However, a new study in April 2024 suggests an alternative explanation behind the eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano. Instead of being caused by molten rock material and seawater interaction, the event was triggered by an underground gas buildup. It involves the reactions of gas and solid particles to choke magmatic gas discharge, increasing internal gas pressure, researchers say.

2022 Tonga Volcano Eruption

The Tonga volcano eruption on January 15, 2022, created the "largest underwater explosion" in modern history, based on records by modern scientific instruments. The eruption involved a gigantic amount of water and volcanic gases, which are higher than any other eruption during the satellite era, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Prior to the major eruption on January 15, the underwater volcano Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai experienced smaller eruptions between December 19, 2021, and January 13, 2022. The government of Tonga confirmed the deaths of at least four people from the disaster. Meanwhile, more than a dozen was injured and others have been reported missing following the eruption and tsunamis.

Also Read: Force from Tonga's Eruption Could Have Created Mutliple Tsunamis the Size of the Statue of Liberty

Underground Gas Buildup

Just like other underwater volcanic eruptions, some scientists from previous research thought that the cause of the 2022 Tonga eruption was magma and seawater reaction, as mentioned earlier. However, a new study published in the Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research on April 21 theorizes that an underground gas buildup was the culprit behind the eruption.

The international research team involved in the study, including Australia and the United States, explains that a hydraulic failure at the underwater volcano triggered a powerful gas explosion, atmospheric air blast and tsunami. The findings are based on new evidence-based model of the Hunga Tonga eruption, which was potentially triggered by a built-up gas below a seal inside the volcano.

In a report by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in August 2022, the Tonga eruption surprised scientists since the volcanic explosion triggered two types of tsunamis: classic tsunamis and meteotsunamis. The former is caused by the displacement of large water volumes, while the latter occurs due to fast-flowing pressure disturbing the atmosphere, the USGS adds.

Related Article: Tonga Volcano Eruption Affected GPS Accuracy Over Australia, Scientists Reveal
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Intense heatwave claims 8 lives in Rajasthan, Barmer hottest in country at 48.8-degree C

I

ntense heatwave claimed eight lives in four districts of Rajasthan -- Barmer, Balotra, Jalore, and Bhilwara -- as the maximum temperature at many places in the state shot up to 46-48-degree Celcius, with Barmer at 48.8 emerging as the hottest place in the country on Thursday.

According to the Met department, the maximum temperature soared to over 47-degree Celsius at seven cities in the state on Thursday.

The heatwave will intensify in the next two days, said the Jaipur Meteorological Centre, adding that the mercury will reduce slightly after May 28.

Meanwhile, two persons died due to extreme heat in Balotra.

Mularam (55) was working in the fields when his health condition deteriorated due to the heat. His family members rushed him to a hospital where the doctors declared him dead. Similarly, Mantu (22), who worked with a refinery company in the area, fell ill and was rushed to a nearby hospital where the doctors declared him dead.

A 35-year-old man also died due to the heatwave in Barmer.

Deaths due to the intense heat were also reported from Bhilwara and Jalore districts.

After Barmer, Phalodi recorded the maximum temperature on Thursday at 48.6-degree Celcius, followed by Fatehpur (47.6), Jaisalmer (47.5), Jodhpur (47.4), Jalore (47.3), Kota (47.2), Churu (47), Dungarpur (46.8), Chhitorgarh (45.5), and Jaipur (44), among others.

A red alert has been sounded in most parts of Rajasthan for the next three days.

 Intense heatwave claims 8 lives in Rajasthan, Barmer hottest in country at 48.8-degree C

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Elton John's new album is all done and recorded: Bernie Taupin

L

egendary rock icon Elton John is set to delight fans with a new album, as confirmed by his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin.

The news confirmed by People magazine was unveiled during The Other Songs Live event in London, where Taupin offered a tantalizing glimpse into the forthcoming musical endeavour.

"Elton and I have an album coming out very soon, but I daren't say anything about it because I'm under strict orders to keep schtum," revealed Taupin, the prolific lyricist behind many of John's greatest hits.

With excitement palpable in the air, Taupin assured listeners that the album is "all done and recorded."

He expressed confidence in the project's contemporary flair, suggesting it would surprise and excite audiences while aiming for success, as per People magazine.

This announcement follows Taupin's previous revelations about their creative partnership.

Speaking to People magazine last September, Taupin hinted at the duo's unwavering commitment to producing new music, even if touring might not be on the horizon for John.

"Who knows, he may not do anything anymore, but we'll definitely make another record," Taupin affirmed adding, "there's no doubt about that."

Reflecting on their enduring collaboration, Taupin emphasized the importance of music in their bond.

"The glue that's kept us together all through these years is the music. I think the musicality of it all is what's important. And that's where we are completely 50/50, hand in hand," he said.

While there is still a confirmation pending from John's official team, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of this new album, poised to witness yet another chapter in the illustrious careers of these two musical icons.

 Elton John's new album is all done and recorded: Bernie Taupin

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Germany has no plans to recognise Palestinian state, says Chancellor Scholz

G

erman Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Friday that his government has no plans to officially recognise a Palestinian state.

There is "no reason" to recognise the Palestinian Authority (PA) as a separate state, Scholz said on Friday at a press conference alongside Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.

"There is no clarity about the territory of the state, about all other issues related to it," Scholz said. He suggested that matters were "not yet that far."

Scholz argued that "a negotiated solution between Israel and the Palestinians that amounts to a two-state solution" with a Palestinian Authority responsible for both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip is needed instead.

"But we're still a long way off that," Scholz said.

What is important now is "to achieve a long-term ceasefire" and "for all parties to commit to the two-state solution," Scholz said.

Ireland, Spain and Norway all announced plans to formally recognise a Palestinian state by the end of the month, a move that was met with fury from the right-wing government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Montenegro said that Portugal will not be taking this step for the time being, although he noted that his country had voted in favour of recognising Palestine as a full member of the United Nations General Assembly.

Scholz on Friday said that it has become clear in recent weeks that Arab countries are working hard to ensure security in the Middle East region, which the German chancellor contended should give hope for a possible two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

However, a path of "symbolic recognition of statehood" would not lead things any further, Scholz said.

--IANS/DPA

 Germany has no plans to recognise Palestinian state, says Chancellor Scholz

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University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) researchers at the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD) have been awarded $3.96 million to develop a maternal vaccine that prevents sepsis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae in newborns and infants.

The research study will continue the development of a first-of-its-kind vaccine against Klebsiella pneumoniae, a potentially fatal infection in babies born in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and many African countries. The vaccine could also potentially be used to prevent hospital-acquired K. pneumoniae sepsis infections worldwide.

Funding is being provided by Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator (CARB-X), a global non-profit partnership dedicated to supporting early-stage antibacterial research and development to address the rising threat of drug-resistant bacteria.

CVD scientist Sharon Tennant, PhD, Professor of Medicine at UMSOM, began development of the vaccine with Alan Cross, MD, Professor of Medicine at UMSOM, 10 years ago, which was first evaluated in adult animal models. "We are grateful for the funding and support from CARB-X to further develop our K. pneumoniae vaccine to prevent sepsis in neonates," said Dr. Tennant. "This funding will allow us to continue our efforts to prevent these infections and to hopefully ensure that families can one day experience the joy and wonder of a healthy baby instead of tragedy."

She heads a research team that includes Dr. Cross and Scott Baliban, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine and CVD researcher at UMSOM. They are working in partnership with Auro Vaccines Private Limited (Auro Vaccines), based in Hyderabad, India. Auro Vaccines is a step-down subsidiary of Aurobindo Pharma Limited, India.

If their study demonstrates that the new modified vaccine can protect against K. pneumoniae infections in animal studies, the vaccine can then be evaluated in human clinical trials to test its safety and efficacy.

Neonatal sepsis is a life-threatening response to bloodstream infections that occur in newborns fewer than 28 days old. Due to their immature immune systems, newborns are particularly susceptible to infections. The landmark BARNARDS study estimated that 2.5 million neonates or infants in the first month of life die annually of sepsis, with the greatest burden in low- and middle-income countries. Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent K. pneumoniae infections. The only option is to treat infected babies with IV fluids and antibiotics, and to provide treatment as quickly as possible to prevent the rapid progression of the infection which can cause multiple organ failure that leads to death.

"The risk of death from sepsis increases 7.6 percent for every hour that treatment is delayed, which can be an insurmountable challenge in countries lacking easy access to pediatric hospital care," said Mark T. Gladwin, MD, who is the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor and Dean, UMSOM, and Vice President for Medical Affairs, University of Maryland, Baltimore. "Combine this with the rise in treatment-resistant infections due to the overuse of antibiotics, and we see how urgent the need is to have a vaccine to prevent this deadly condition in our most vulnerable babies."

The CVD vaccine, which targets the surface sugars of K. pneumoniae, is expected to be given to pregnant women, thereby protecting their babies from this deadly infection. The conjugate vaccine targets four types of surface sugars that account for more than 80 percent of K. pneumoniae infections. If successful, researchers expect the vaccine will prevent the vast majority of K. pneumoniae neonatal sepsis infections. The CARB-X award supports examining the feasibility of this project to reach a high potential impact for the vulnerable patient population. There is currently no K. pneumoniae vaccine on the market.

This investment from CARB-X will help to accelerate development of this vaccine to prevent Klebsiella infections in young babies. The CVD has participated in research that has highlighted the importance of K. pneumoniae in causing serious infections in young infants in resource limited settings. We are excited to continue development of a vaccine that can prevent these infections and save lives. The CVD has an outstanding record of developing vaccines for global use against high priority pathogens, and this effort will build on that experience." Miriam Laufer, MD, MPH, FASTMH, Interim Director of the CVD

Added Erin Duffy, PhD, R&D Chief of CARB-X: "With this award, the CVD team has even greater potential to bring a maternal vaccine for neonatal sepsis to market and save the lives of millions of infants worldwide, especially in low-and-middle income countries through its global partnership with Auro Vaccines of India.By vaccinating expectant mothers, the risk of neonatal sepsis might be reduced substantially as babies who are too young to be vaccinated would receive antibodies from their mothers in utero as well as through breastfeeding after birth."

CARB-X funding for this research is supported by federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority; under agreement number 75A50122C00028, and by awards from Wellcome (WT224842), Germany's Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the UK Department of Health and Social Care as part of the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Innovation Fund (GAMRIF), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The content of this press release is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views CARB-X or its funders.

University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) researchers at the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD) have been awarded $3.96 million to develop a maternal vaccine that prevents sepsis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae in newborns and infants.

The research study will continue the development of a first-of-its-kind vaccine against Klebsiella pneumoniae, a potentially fatal infection in babies born in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and many African countries. The vaccine could also potentially be used to prevent hospital-acquired K. pneumoniae sepsis infections worldwide.

Funding is being provided by Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator (CARB-X), a global non-profit partnership dedicated to supporting early-stage antibacterial research and development to address the rising threat of drug-resistant bacteria.

CVD scientist Sharon Tennant, PhD, Professor of Medicine at UMSOM, began development of the vaccine with Alan Cross, MD, Professor of Medicine at UMSOM, 10 years ago, which was first evaluated in adult animal models. "We are grateful for the funding and support from CARB-X to further develop our K. pneumoniae vaccine to prevent sepsis in neonates," said Dr. Tennant. "This funding will allow us to continue our efforts to prevent these infections and to hopefully ensure that families can one day experience the joy and wonder of a healthy baby instead of tragedy."

She heads a research team that includes Dr. Cross and Scott Baliban, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine and CVD researcher at UMSOM. They are working in partnership with Auro Vaccines Private Limited (Auro Vaccines), based in Hyderabad, India. Auro Vaccines is a step-down subsidiary of Aurobindo Pharma Limited, India.

If their study demonstrates that the new modified vaccine can protect against K. pneumoniae infections in animal studies, the vaccine can then be evaluated in human clinical trials to test its safety and efficacy.

Neonatal sepsis is a life-threatening response to bloodstream infections that occur in newborns fewer than 28 days old. Due to their immature immune systems, newborns are particularly susceptible to infections. The landmark BARNARDS study estimated that 2.5 million neonates or infants in the first month of life die annually of sepsis, with the greatest burden in low- and middle-income countries. Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent K. pneumoniae infections. The only option is to treat infected babies with IV fluids and antibiotics, and to provide treatment as quickly as possible to prevent the rapid progression of the infection which can cause multiple organ failure that leads to death.

"The risk of death from sepsis increases 7.6 percent for every hour that treatment is delayed, which can be an insurmountable challenge in countries lacking easy access to pediatric hospital care," said Mark T. Gladwin, MD, who is the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor and Dean, UMSOM, and Vice President for Medical Affairs, University of Maryland, Baltimore. "Combine this with the rise in treatment-resistant infections due to the overuse of antibiotics, and we see how urgent the need is to have a vaccine to prevent this deadly condition in our most vulnerable babies."

The CVD vaccine, which targets the surface sugars of K. pneumoniae, is expected to be given to pregnant women, thereby protecting their babies from this deadly infection. The conjugate vaccine targets four types of surface sugars that account for more than 80 percent of K. pneumoniae infections. If successful, researchers expect the vaccine will prevent the vast majority of K. pneumoniae neonatal sepsis infections. The CARB-X award supports examining the feasibility of this project to reach a high potential impact for the vulnerable patient population. There is currently no K. pneumoniae vaccine on the market.

"This investment from CARB-X will help to accelerate development of this vaccine to prevent Klebsiella infections in young babies," said Miriam Laufer, MD, MPH, FASTMH, Interim Director of the CVD. "The CVD has participated in research that has highlighted the importance of K. pneumoniae in causing serious infections in young infants in resource limited settings. We are excited to continue development of a vaccine that can prevent these infections and save lives. The CVD has an outstanding record of developing vaccines for global use against high priority pathogens, and this effort will build on that experience."

Added Erin Duffy, PhD, R&D Chief of CARB-X: "With this award, the CVD team has even greater potential to bring a maternal vaccine for neonatal sepsis to market and save the lives of millions of infants worldwide, especially in low-and-middle income countries through its global partnership with Auro Vaccines of India.By vaccinating expectant mothers, the risk of neonatal sepsis might be reduced substantially as babies who are too young to be vaccinated would receive antibodies from their mothers in utero as well as through breastfeeding after birth."

CARB-X funding for this research is supported by federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority; under agreement number 75A50122C00028, and by awards from Wellcome (WT224842), Germany's Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the UK Department of Health and Social Care as part of the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Innovation Fund (GAMRIF), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The content of this press release is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views CARB-X or its funders.
The DRIVE-RM consortium, led by Professor of Experimental Nephrology Marianne Verhaar from UMC Utrecht, has been awarded 37.5 million under the prestigious NWO SUMMIT program. The SUMMIT grant recognizes world-class collaborations, while further strengthening these partnerships. The DRIVE-RM collaboration involves UMC Utrecht, Utrecht University, Eindhoven University of Technology, Maastricht University, and the Hubrecht Institute, focusing on smart materials that assist the body in healing.

Regenerative medicine involves repairing or replacing damaged tissues and organs by leveraging the body's own healing processes. DRIVE-RM specifically focuses on material-driven regeneration, using intelligent, lifelike, or even living materials that can prompt the human body to generate new tissue. This approach could radically change the treatment of chronic diseases such as kidney failure, heart failure, and worn joints in the future.

Recognition as world leaders

The NWO SUMMIT program targets top-tier collaborations and facilitates world-class breakthroughs. The project leader of DRIVE-RM is Marianne Verhaar, nephrologist and professor of Experimental Nephrology at UMC Utrecht. Marianne states, "Over the past 20 years, we have established strong collaborative efforts in regenerative medicine in the Netherlands with several large, innovative, and successful projects like the MDR Gravitation consortium. The SUMMIT grant is a wonderful recognition of this work and underscores the importance of regenerative medicine as a leading field in the Netherlands."

Five know more than one

The involved institutes have been collaborating for some time, resulting in valuable innovations. One example is a synthetic, biodegradable blood vessel that aids the body in regenerating blood vessels.

With the consortium, we developed a blood vessel made of a degradable material that is gradually replaced by the body's own tissue. It can function immediately as a blood vessel and does not lose functionality as the body takes over. This innovation beautifully combines biology and technology. Now, we will see if it also works well in patients." Marianne Verhaar from UMC Utrecht

Bringing together techniques and disciplines

DRIVE-RM is led by five outstanding scientists, all experienced in leading innovative research projects. In addition to Marianne Verhaar, who focuses on kidney and vascular regeneration, the team contains Carlijn Bouten (TU/e, cardiovascular regeneration and tissue technology), Jos Malda (Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht, biofabrication and bone/cartilage regeneration), Jeroen Bakkers (Hubrecht Institute and UMC Utrecht, regenerative biology and heart regeneration), and Clemens van Blitterswijk (Maastricht University, tissue technology and biomaterials).

The DRIVE-RM project takes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating for example Utrecht innovations such as organoids and 4D bioprinting with the technical and material expertise of TU/e and Maastricht University. This leads to new insights in directing repair processes from the level of individual cells to whole organs. These combinations are essential for customizing treatments tailored to individual patients and their specific conditions.

A new approach is needed

The number of people with chronic diseases is increasing significantly, mainly due to aging populations. This leads to human suffering and high healthcare costs.

"Regenerative medicine offers a promising opportunity to effectively treat chronic conditions by encouraging the body to heal itself," continues Marianne. "Our scientists aim to fully understand the repair processes of tissues and organs in the patient and then direct this with implantable smart materials."

The DRIVE-RM consortium focuses on developing new treatments for heart failure, kidney failure, and disorders of bones, cartilage, and joints.

"Besides advancing scientific research and technological innovation, DRIVE-RM also provides a platform for collaboration with clinicians to make the translation to clinical practice," says Verhaar, "and with ethicists to address ethical issues surrounding regenerative therapies." Together with the involved Health Technology Assessment experts, this provides a framework that ensures these advanced interventions remain affordable and accessible.

Enabling future generations of scientists

The DRIVE-RM consortium places great emphasis on maintaining a healthy, inclusive, and diverse research culture and training the next generation-;a key goal of the SUMMIT program. Therefore, the team explicitly includes emerging talents who will continue to strengthen Dutch research in regenerative medicine.

Verhaar concludes, "Ultimately, DRIVE-RM is more than just a research initiative; it is a vision for the future of healthcare. A future in which chronic diseases can truly be cured. By collaborating with leading academic institutions, DRIVE-RM aims to make these visionary treatments a reality."
The federal government in 2020 and 2023 changed who it said could safely donate organs and blood, reducing the restrictions on men who have had sex with another man.

But the FDA's restrictions on donated tissue, a catchall term encompassing everything from a person's eyes to their skin and ligaments, remain in place. Advocates, lawmakers, and groups focused on removing barriers to cornea donations, in particular, said they are frustrated the FDA hasn't heeded their calls. They want to align the guidelines for tissue donated by gay and bisexual men with those that apply to the rest of the human body.

Such groups have been asking the FDA for years to reduce the deferral period from five years to 90 days, meaning a man who has had sex with another man would be able to donate tissue as long as such sex didn't occur within three months of his death.

One of the loudest voices on lightening the restrictions is Sheryl J. Moore, who has been an advocate since her 16-year-old son's death in 2013. Alexander "AJ" Betts Jr.'s internal organs were successfully donated to seven people, but his eyes were rejected because of a single question asked by the donor network: "Is AJ gay?"

Moore and a Colorado doctor named Michael Puente Jr. started a campaign called "Legalize Gay Eyes" and together got the attention of national eye groups and lawmakers.

Puente, a pediatric ophthalmologist with the University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, said the current patchwork of donor guidelines is nonsensical considering advancements in the ability to test potential donors for HIV.

"A gay man can donate their entire heart for transplant, but they cannot donate just the heart valve," said Puente, who is gay. "It's essentially a categorical ban."

The justification for these policies, set 30 years ago as a means of preventing HIV transmission, has been undercut by the knowledge gained through scientific progress. Now, they are unnecessary and discriminatory in that they focus on specific groups of people rather than on specific behaviors known to heighten HIV risk, according to those who advocate for changing them.

Since 2022, the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research has put changes to the tissue guidance on its agenda but has yet to act on them.

"It is simply unacceptable," Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Colo.) said in a statement. He was one of dozens of Congress members who signed a letter in 2021 that said the current deferral policies perpetuate stigma against gay men and should be based on individualized risk assessments instead.

"FDA policy should be derived from the best available science, not historic bias and prejudice," the letter read.

The FDA said in a statement to KFF Health News that, "while the absolute risk transmission of HIV due to ophthalmic surgical procedures appears to be remote, there are still relative risks."

The agency routinely reviews donor screening and testing "to determine what changes, if any, are appropriate based on technological and evolving scientific knowledge," the statement said. The FDA provided a similar response to Neguse in 2022.

In 2015, the FDA got rid of a policy dubbed the "blood ban," which barred gay and bisexual men from donating blood, before replacing it in 2023 with a policy that treats all prospective donors the same. Anyone who, in the past three months, has had anal sex and a new sexual partner or more than one sexual partner is not allowed to donate. An FDA study found that, while men who have sex with men make up most of the nation's new HIV diagnoses, a questionnaire was enough to effectively identify low-risk versus high-risk donors.

The U.S. Public Health Service adjusted the guidelines for organ donation in 2020. Nothing prevents sexually active gay men from donating their organs, though if they've had sex with another man in the past 30 days  down from a year  the patient set to receive the organ can decide whether or not to accept it.

But Puente said gay men like him cannot donate their corneas unless they were celibate for five years prior to their death.

He found that, in one year alone, at least 360 people were rejected as cornea donors because they were men who had had sex with another man in the past five years, or in the past year in the case of Canadian donors.

Corneas are the clear domes that protect the eyes from the outside world. They have the look and consistency of a transparent jellyfish, and transplanting one can restore a person's sight. They contain no blood, nor any other bodily fluid capable of transmitting HIV. Scientists suspect that's why there are no known cases of a patient contracting HIV from a cornea transplant, even when those corneas came from donors of organs that did infect recipients.

Currently, all donors, whether of blood, organs, or tissue, are tested for HIV and two types of hepatitis. Such tests aren't perfect: There is still what scientists call a "window period" following infection during which the donor's body has not yet produced a detectable amount of virus.

But such windows are now quite narrow. Researchers with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nucleic acid tests, which are commonly used to screen donors, are unlikely to miss someone having HIV unless they acquired it in the two weeks preceding donation. Another study estimated that even if someone had sex with an HIV-positive person a couple of weeks to a month before donating, the odds are less than 1 in a million that a nucleic acid test would miss that infection.

"Very low, but not zero," said Sridhar Basavaraju, who was one of the researchers on that study and directs the CDC's Office of Blood, Organ, and Other Tissue Safety. He said the risk of undetected hepatitis B is slightly higher "but still low."

At least one senior FDA official has indirectly agreed. Peter Marks, who directs the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, co-authored a report last year that said "three months amply covers" the window period in which someone might have the virus but at levels too low for tests to pick up. Scott Haber, director of public health advocacy at the American Academy of Ophthalmology, said his group's stance is that the tissue donation guideline "should be at least roughly in alignment" with that for blood donations.

Kevin Corcoran, who leads the Eye Bank Association of America, said the five-year abstinence required of corneal donors who are gay or bisexual isn't just "badly out of date" but also impractical, requiring grieving relatives to recall five years of their loved one's sexual history.

That's the situation Moore found herself in on a July day in 2013.

Her son loved anime, show tunes, and drinking pop out of the side of his mouth. He was bad at telling jokes but good at helping people: Betts once replaced his little sister's lost birthday money with his own savings, she said, and enthusiastically chose to be an organ donor when he got his driver's license. Moore remembered telling her son to ignore the harassment by antigay bigots at school.

"The kids in show choir had told him hes going to hell for being gay, and he might as well just kill himself to save himself the time," she recalled.

That summer, he did. At the hospital, as medical staff searched for signs of brain activity in the boy before he died, Moore found herself answering a list of questions from Iowa Donor Network, including, she recalled: "Is AJ gay?"

"I remember very vividly saying to them, 'Well, what do you mean by, "Was he gay?" I mean, hes never had penetrative sex,'" she said. "But they said, 'We just need to know if he was gay.' And I said, 'Yes, he identified as gay.'"

The Iowa Donor Network said in a statement that the organization can't comment on Moore's case, but said, "We sincerely hope for a shift in FDA policy to align with the more inclusive approach seen in blood donation guidelines, enabling us to honor the decision of all individuals who want to save lives through organ and tissue donation."

Moore said her son's organs helped save or prolong the lives of seven other people, including a boy who received his heart and a middle-aged woman who received his liver. Moore sometimes exchanges messages with her on Facebook.

She found out a year later that her son's corneas were rejected as donor tissue because of that conversation with Iowa Donor Network about her son's sexuality.

"I felt like they wasted my sons body parts," Moore said. "I very much felt like AJ was continuing to be bullied beyond the grave."
Through high-tech imaging and virtual reality, a University of South Florida medical engineering professor is creating a detailed map of the brain that can be used to better understand developmental disorders, such as autism, and provide earlier, more effective treatments for brain injuries and diseases.

Funded by a $3.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, George Spirou is expanding on his four decades of brain research to focus on the part of the brain that processes sound, called the calyx of Held  the largest nerve terminal in the human brain. Auditory dysfunction is often the source of symptoms of disorders, such as autism, which typically result in social and cognitive impairment.

Even though we're focusing on a specific part of the brain involved in hearing, the information we gather can help us understand serious developmental disorders that happen when the brain doesn't develop properly early on. Our findings could also pave the way for innovative strategies to repair and reconnect damaged neural circuits affected by disease and injuries later in life." George Spirou, medical engineering professor, University of South Florida

Using high-resolution imaging technology combined with image analysis inside the Auditory Development and Connectomics Laboratory at USF, Spirou is creating the most accurate developmental timeline for any neural system in the brain. They're able to capture the journey of neurons in mice from birth to their establishment of intricate synaptic connections. According to the NIH, mice and human brains have very similar neuron types and connections.

With software created by Spirou and his colleagues, he and his doctoral student, Daniel Heller, are using virtual reality to intricately examine the neurons captured in the images and analyze the synapses through an immersive experience. While developing neural systems have been studied, Spirou said not at this combined level of temporal and spatial resolution.

"Between the fourth and fifth gestational months, the number of neurons in the nervous system just explodes almost exponentially and synapses are forming at a rate of about a million per second during that time, which is an incredible number when you consider there are almost 100 trillion synapses in an adult human brain," he said. "I like to think of it as there are about 100 billion stars in the Milky Way, and there are about that many neurons in the brain."

Heller has worked alongside Spirou for several years, even following him from West Virginia University to USF in 2019, so he could continue learning Spirou's interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to research. Now close to graduation, Heller's dissertation is largely focused on this project.

"At the cellular level, the physical manifestations of these disorders are caused by developmental defects in brain connectivity," Heller said. "From a clinical perspective, researching therapeutics for these disorders is difficult without a better understanding of how the brain develops under normal conditions, and results in treating symptoms rather than aiming for a global cure."

Over the next five years, their goal is to pinpoint what signals drive the precise formation of this particular neural system  a missing detail that once understood, would reveal how formation works in other neural circuits. In the event of an injury in a mature brain, this information would be helpful to help reorganize and possibly reconnect neurons to help patient recovery through surgery and other treatment options.

"I am totally fascinated by what's happening at this stage of development in the brain and how the brain directs its own formation  that to me is enough to get me up in the morning and come in to do our work," Spirou said.
The Delhi High Court has instructed BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover and his wife, Madhuri Jain Grover, to provide security of Rs 80 crore before traveling to the United States.

Grover is scheduled to leave for the US on May 26 and return to India on June 14, while Jain will travel on June 15 and return on July 1.

According to a report by Moneycontrol, on May 24, the court specified that this security should be in the form of a property.

Additionally, the court ordered the couple to surrender their Emirates Cards, which are issued to holders of the UAEs golden visa, to prevent them from traveling to the United Arab Emirates.

The golden visa is a 10-year residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the UAE.

On May 22, while granting permission for the Grovers, who are accused of fraud, to travel separately to the US for their childrens summer school, the court asked the Economic Offences Wing to establish the conditions for their travel.

The couple has also been instructed to provide comprehensive details of their stay, including hotel information, travel plans, and phone numbers, to both the court and the investigating agencies.

Grover and Jain have also been instructed not to create any third-party rights on the shares of BharatPe that they hold.

Justice Subramonium Prasad stated that one of them must remain in India as a mortgage while the other travels.

The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) objected to their travel, arguing that the couple owns properties abroad and poses a flight risk.

The EOW noted that the investigation against them is at an advanced and crucial stage and that Jain, in particular, has not been cooperating. The EOW has identified suspicious transactions amounting to crores.

Grover and Jain cannot leave the country without court permission due to a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued at the request of the EOW. They are accused of committing an Rs 81-crore fraud at the fintech firm.
Internet major Google has proposed an investment in e-commerce major Flipkart to buy a minority stake during the companys fresh funding round, the Walmart group firm said on Friday.

As part of the latest funding round led by Walmart, Flipkart today announced that it will be adding Google as a minority investor, subject to receipt of regulatory and other customary approvals by both parties, Flipkart said in a statement.

Reportedly, the tech titan will be investing $300-350 million in Flipkart.

With Googles proposed investment and Cloud collaboration, Flipkart is poised to expand its business and modernise its digital infrastructure, enhancing the customer experience nationwide.

Googles proposed investment and its cloud collaboration will help Flipkart expand its business and advance the modernization of its digital infrastructure to serve customers across the country, Flipkart said.
Petrol and Diesel Prices On May 24, 2024: Fresh petrol and diesel prices have been released nationwide on Friday, May 24. Fuel prices in the country are decided based on international crude oil prices. Because of this, the effect of change in crude oil prices is seen in petrol and diesel prices in the country. Government oil marketing companies release fresh petrol and diesel prices every day at 6 am in the country.

Petrol, and diesel prices in several states have been updated including the countrys capital Delhi. Whereas, there has been a slight increase in petrol and diesel prices in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Haryana. Companies like Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, and Indian Oil Corporation of India release the prices of petrol and diesel on their website. Let us know the new fuel prices.

Petrol Diesel Price Today In India (Check city-wise rate list below)

Mumbai Petrol & Diesel Price

As of May 24, the price of petrol in Mumbai continued to exceed the Rs 100 mark, reaching Rs 104.21 per litre, while diesel was priced at Rs 92.15 per litre.

Delhi Diesel Price Today

As of May 24, the cost of diesel is priced at Rs 87.62 per litre.

Delhi Petrol Price Today

As of May 24, the cost of petrol in Delhi is Rs 94.72 per litre.

Check city-wise petrol and diesel prices on May 24:

City Petrol Price (Rs/litre) Diesel Price (Rs/litre) Chennai 100.75 92.34 Kolkata 103.94 90.76 Noida 94.83 87.96 Lucknow 94.65 87.76 Bengaluru 99.84 85.93 Hyderabad 107.41 95.65 Jaipur 104.88 90.36 Trivandrum 107.56 96.43 Bhubaneswar 101.06 92.64

Know the price of petrol and diesel through SMS

You can also find out the latest petrol and diesel prices 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.
Going by a regions prevailing unsold housing inventory as an indicator of its realty markets health, north Indias Delhi-NCR  once notorious for speculation-driven oversupply and all-round market disarray  is in significantly better shape than the other regions. The latest Anarock data indicated that Delhi-NCRs unsold inventory declined by a massive 57% in the last five years.

The top southern markets Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai saw their collective unsold stock shrink by 11% in this period.

MMR and Pune in the west saw their cumulative unsold stock reduce by 8%. In the east, Kolkata saw its unsold inventory decline by an impressive 41% in the period.

NCRs unsold stock declined from approx. 2 lakh units at Q1 2018-end to approx. 86,420 units by Q1 2024-end. In the same period, the main southern cities saw their unsold stock decline from over approx. 1.96 lakh units in Q1 2018 to over 1.76 lakh units in Q1 2024.

South Indias relatively low decline in unsold inventory is attributable to a massive new launch rate in Hyderabad, most notably over the last two years. The city saw its housing stock almost quadrupled in the last 5 years. Bengaluru saw unsold inventory decline by 50% in this period.

In the west, MMR and Pune saw unsold stock decline by 8% in the last five years  from approx. 3.13 lakh units in Q1 2018 to approx. 2.90 lakh units in Q1 2024.

Santhosh Kumar, vice chairman, Anarock Group, said, What really worked for the NCR market was developers determination to keep new supply additions under control. Anarock data indicated that NCR witnessed a total new supply of approx. 1.81 lakh units between Q1 2018 to Q1 2024. In contrast, the southern and western markets saw significantly higher new supply additions of approx. 6.07 lakh units and 8.42 lakh units respectively.

NCRs upbeat performance also reflects renewed buyer confidence in the region, added Kumar.

RERA, GST and the intervention of AIFs like the SWAMIH fund have played a major role in this sentiment revival. As a result, more leading and listed players have increased supply in the region.

Of the total unsold inventory in NCR:
A Master of Business Administration degree is thought to be a guarantee of a steady, well-paying position. There is a growing trend of job attrition among MBA professionals. As per Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLPs (Deloitte India) most recent Campus Workforce Trends 2024 report, the nations MBA graduate turnover rate is rising quickly. According to the most recent survey, the attrition rates for first-time students, college students, and those who leave within a year or two are 21%, 26%, and 28%, respectively. According to the report, there is cause for concern regarding the high percentage of top university students leaving entry-level positions.

According to recent research, students from schools in the tier-2 and tier-3 categories attrition rates are marginally lower, at 19 per cent, 21% per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. According to Nilesh Gupta, director of Deloitte India, the findings of this years report indicate that companies had to reconsider their retention tactics, particularly concerning MBA graduates. He asserted that to retain top people in a cutthroat market, creative techniques are now required and not optional.

Call for more hiring transparency

Nilesh Gupta cited research indicating that four out of five executives would rather base recruiting decisions on talent, advancement, and pay than on experience or connections, emphasising the need to lessen bias and promote transparency. He asserted that for pupils to thrive in the digital age, educational institutions must provide them with a broad range of abilities.

Without MBA graduates, work cannot be completed.

According to the report, 70 per cent of organisations continue to seek out MBA graduates despite the high turnover rate among this group of professionals, demonstrating the significance of MBA graduates to their company performance. Data from almost 500 campuses were examined and the report also reveals a 10% and 26% decrease in the number of internship and pre-placement offers made by companies.

The best cities for MBA grads are Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi.

According to the survey, students seeking management degrees most frequently choose Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. However, the top cities of choice for engineering students are Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

In the areas of management, engineering, law, pharmacy, hotel management, and professional degrees (CA/CS), 508 campuses and 194 organisations were included in the Deloitte survey. The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings served as the basis for classifying institutes according to tiers.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
The University of Mumbai (MU) has started the registration process for admission to undergraduate (UG) courses for the session 2024-25. Candidates can apply for MU UG admission 2024 through the official website  mum.digitaluniversity.ac/admissions. However, detailed information regarding the admission procedure will be released soon on the university portal. With the selection process, Mumbai University aims to fill seats in 749 affiliated colleges and 60 university departments and institutes.

Mumbai University UG Admission: Eligibility Criteria

For the BA programmes, applicants must have passed Class 12 from a recognised board and meet the minimum pass percentage requirement set by the university. Students applying for the BSC programmes must have cleared Class 12 in a science stream, which can either be medical or non-medical.

Mumbai University UG 2024 Admission: Steps To Apply

Step 1: To apply, visit the official website  mum.digitaluniversity.ac/admissions.

Step 2: Two links will be displayed on the homepage. One link is for the candidates applying for the first time to the university while the other is for the current students.

Step 3: If you are applying for the first time, click on Online Application for First Year UG Fresher Student (AY 2024-25).

Step 4: Click on the relevant link and provide all the necessary details required for the registration process of MU UG Admission 2024.

Meanwhile, the registration for Mumbai Universitys 2024 postgraduate programmes was opened on May 22. For the MSc programmes, applicants must have attained a BSc degree with at least 50 per cent aggregate marks to be eligible for admission. The deadline for completing the PG admissions application process is June 15.

The university will release the first merit list for PG on June 26. Candidates need to submit the online payment for the first merit list between June 27 to July 1 by 5 pm. The second merit list will be released on July 2 by 6 pm, with the payment due from July 3 to 5 by 5 pm. The academic session will begin on July 1.

However, the Mumbai University PG admission portal, muadmission.samarth.edu.in, is not yet operational. For any other details and further updates, candidates are advised to keep checking the official website.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
The Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka is facing another rebellion, like the one by senior, now-suspended, leader KS Eshwarappa in Shivamogga during the Lok Sabha polls.

The 24-hour deadline set by the Karnataka unit directing rebel leader K Raghupati Bhat to withdraw his nomination as an independent candidate for the legislative council polls against BJPs nominee Dr Dhananjay Sarji has elapsed. Bhat remains firm on his decision to contest even if the party takes disciplinary action against him.

He has been served a show-cause notice and asked to withdraw within 24 hours. If he does not comply, he will be expelled. We expect every party member to behave as a disciplined worker and raise their concerns in appropriate fora. There is zero tolerance for such rebellious behaviour, said BJPs Karnataka state general secretary V Sunil Kumar to News18.

Bhat, on the other hand, has been actively campaigning for the South West Graduates constituency against Sarji, much to the annoyance of the BJP.

A three-time MLA from Udupi, Bhat was denied a ticket in the 2023 assembly polls. He was asked to step aside to make way for Yashpal Suvarna for the coastal Karnataka seat, which Suvarna won with the highest margin of votes in the state. One may recall that Suvarna was the face of the anti-hijab campaign in Karnataka during the peak of the assembly polls.

Sunil Kumar, who also hails from coastal Karnataka, was tasked by the BJP to convince Bhat to stand down and withdraw his nomination papers. However, the efforts by the leader seem to have hit a dead end as Bhat has dug his heels in and refuses to budge from his decision.

I have not received any notice yet. When I do, I will put across my arguments as to what led to my decision. I have worked for over 38 years for the party, have been an MLA, and have also faced dejection when I was denied a ticket twice. Yet, this stand that I am taking is a different one. The ticket for the South West Graduates constituency should not have been given to a candidate who joined the party just a year ago, said Bhat, adding that there were more deserving senior leaders who could have been chosen over Sarji for the seat.

Speaking over the phone during his campaign in Madikeri, Bhat said that he had spent more than three decades in the BJP and had carried out his responsibilities as a sincere party worker.

I will bare my mind to the disciplinary committee when they call me. I am at least happy that I have ignited the debate that there were more deserving BJP seniors who deserved this ticket. I am sure of my win as well, Bhat told News18.

Attacking the present BJP candidate, Bhat said when Bajrang Dal activist Harsha Nagaraj was murdered in the Doddapete area of Shivamogga city on February 20, 2022, Sarji had participated in a procession along with Communist Party workers. Sarji, a doctor by profession from Shivamogga, countered the allegation, saying he had participated in a peace walk through his Sarji Foundation as he was close to the family of Harsha.

Bhat also claims that this election is not based on any poll symbol.

This election is not one that will lead to the formation of a government or decide whether Modi ji will be the next PM. I have extended my full support and worked selflessly then. This is a fight for justice and honour of our senior BJP leaders, Bhat said. If by this fight of mine, a karyakarta who deserves to be given a ticket is considered, I will see that as a bigger win.

Former Karnataka chief minister Jagadish Shettar also rebelled and quit the BJP, saying that the party had disrespected his leadership by denying him a nomination in the 2023 assembly elections. He joined the Congress in April 2023 and got a ticket to contest the polls from the Hubballi constituency. Shettar lost the election, but later the Congress made him an MLC. Within nine months he returned to the BJP and was given the Belagavi Lok Sabha ticket.

On the question of what he would do if he is removed from the party, Bhat says he is confident that the BJP will consider his request.

If leaders like Jagadish Shettar, who was dismissed from the BJP, were later taken back within a year, why would it be different for me? I am only showing the party the right path, Bhat said.

The Karnataka BJP has been facing rebellion for some time now. Leaders like KS Eshwarappa contested against BJPs MP candidate BY Raghavendra in Shivamogga in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Another senior BJP leader who was denied a ticket in Tumkur, JC Madhuswamy, refused to campaign for the NDA candidate V Somanna in the constituency.

The BJP initially announced candidates in five legislative council seats; however, later, as part of its alliance with the Janata Dal (Secular), it had to concede the South Teachers seat to its partner. The South West Graduates constituency, along with South Teachers, are among the two constituencies where the BJP-JD(S) coalition has been facing an open rebellion over the choice of candidates.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Sharing an order issued by the Kolkata Police on May 22, state BJP president Sukanta Majumdar on Friday alleged that prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC were imposed in central Kolkata to stop PM Narendra Modis roadshow in the city.

Quoting Majumdars post on X, the Kolkata Police said that such prohibitory orders in central Kolkata are issued on a regular basis.

The CM, sensing the will of the masses after 5 phases of election, is now fearful. In a desperate move, she has ordered police to implement Article 144 in Kolkata to stop Modijis road-show. Let TMC know: No evil tactics can stop the BJP (sic), he posted on X.

He later told reporters that the Kolkata Police had been instructed by the TMC government to impose the restrictions in the heart of the city to stop the PMs roadshow on May 28.

It shows that instead of turning Kolkata into London, the TMC wants to turn the city into another Afghanistan or earlier Kashmir, he claimed.

In the order shared by Majumdar, Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal said the prohibitory orders would be in force for 60 days, from May 28 to July 26 as information has been received from credible sources that violent demonstrations are likely to take place resulting in large scale disturbances of the public tranquility and breach of the peace in the area falls under Bowbazar Police Station, Hare Street Police Station and Headquarters Traffic Guard which is from K.C. Das Crossing towards Victoria House (C.E.S.C. Head Office) and its vicinity excluding Bentick Street.

A senior officer of the state Home Department said was a routine order, and such restrictions are imposed in that area on a regular basis.

Sharing copies of similar orders issued in January and March, the Kolkata Police replied to the BJP leader on X: Kolkata Police issues 144 Cr PC order in vicinity of Dalhousie and Victoria house on regular basis. This is nothing new and copies of previous orders being attached. So please refrain from spreading misleading information.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Hitting out at the INDIA bloc, BJP president J P Nadda on Friday alleged that the ghamandia (arrogant) alliance is against the Dalits, tribals and backwards because it wants to rob the reservation of these sections and appease Muslims.

The BJP chief also alleged that the arrogant alliance is anti-Sanatan and anti-national.

Nadda was addressing an election rally organised in Kushinagar in support of the local BJP candidate and sitting MP Vijay Dubey.

Later, he also addressed a rally in Ballia.

In Kushinagar, Nadda appealed to the people to vote in favour of the BJP and claimed that if Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister for the third time, India will become the third largest economy.

Taking a jibe at the INDIA bloc, Nadda alleged that the INDIA bloc is against the SCs, STs, OBCs and extremely backward classes because they want to appease Muslims by robbing the reservation of these sections of the society.

This alliance wants to rob the reservation of Dalits, Advasis and backward communities for Muslim appeasement, he said.

Praising the work of Prime Minister Modi, Nadda said, Today, despite being hit by COVID and the war in Ukraine, India has jumped from the 11th position to become the fifth largest economy in the world under the leadership of Narendra Modi. If Narendra Modi becomes the prime minister for the third time, India will become the third largest economy of the world.

Reminding the Covid crisis, Nadda said, No leader of the world was capable of fighting Covid. America, Europe and Japan could not take a decision but Narendra Modi imposed a lockdown and made the country capable of fighting Covid within two months.

Making an appeal to the people to vote in favour of the BJP candidate, he said, If the button is pressed at the right place, development takes place. But if the button is pressed at the wrong place, the honour of daughters-in-law is put in danger and businessmen are forced to flee.

He said, Seeing the peoples excitement, enthusiasm, happiness and energy, I am convinced that you have made up your mind to send Vijay Dubey to the Lok Sabha again. The question is not about Dubey but about making Narendra Modi the prime minister.

Nadda also praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

He held Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav for scams including Gomti River Front. He talked about the fodder scam involving RJD supremo Lalu Yadav and said West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees people are involved in the alleged teacher recruitment scam.

He also accused the DMK leaders of being involved in alleged sand scam and Arvind Kejriwal in the alleged liquor scam.

The BJP chief said, Once upon time, Uttar Pradesh was known for mafia rule where daughters-in-law were not safe, businessmen were migrating and the mafia used to kill anyone in broad daylight. Today in the same Uttar Pradesh, with the blessings of Narendra Modi and the hard work of Yogi Adityanath, the mafia have been buried in the ground and the people who used to be with the mafia are in jail.

Nadda accused the opposition parties of indulging in nepotism. Naming several leaders of the INDIA bloc, he accused them of thinking only about their family members. He went on to assert that Modi on other hand is concerned about 140 crore people of the country.

UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also addressed the poll meeting.

In his election rally at Ballia, in support of BJP candidate Neeraj Shekhar, Nadda said, It is our good fortune that under the leadership of the successful Prime Minister Modi, not only the fate of India has changed along with the fate of India, but also the culture of Indian politics has changed. The definition of politics has changed today.

Discussing changing India, Nadda said Modi laid optical fiber in two lakh panchayats and opened common service centres in two lakh villages.

Attacking the opposition parties, he said, This Congress, this SP, this educated illiterate (padha likha anpadh) Akhilesh (Yadav) used to say that India is a country of illiterate people, and what will you do by digitising it and what will Wi-Fi do in the villages.

Nadda said, You will be surprised to know that today even the vegetable seller does digital transactions. The one whom you (Akhilesh) called illiterate turned out to be more educated than you.

Launching a sharp attack on Yadav, Nadda said, It was Akhilesh who had proposed to release the terrorists of Banaras, Lucknow and Varanasi blasts. They are friends of traitors.

The BJP president said, Modi ji built four crore houses and three crore more houses will be built in the country in the next five years. A new story of development will be written.

Elections for Kushinagar and Ballia Lok Sabha constituencies will be held in the seventh phase on June 1.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Calling himself the biggest reason for Pakistans worries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had personally visited Lahore and checked the power of the neighbouring country. The Prime Ministers jibe came in reference to Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyars India should respect Pakistan because it has the nuclear bomb remark.

During an interview with India TV, PM Modi recalled his visit to Lahore in 2015, saying, Uss taakat ko mei khud Lahore jaakar check karke aaya hu (I had personally visited Pakistan to check how powerful it is).

  (  )                              ,   ,                     pic.twitter.com/8f11hPwMqZ  BJP (@BJP4India) May 23, 2024

He said at the time of his visit to Lahore, a reporter in Pakistan wondered, Haye Allah tauba, bina visa ke aa gaye (Oh my God, he has arrived in the country without a Visa), I told them it was my country at some point of time.

Here, the Prime Minister was referring to undivided India before partition in 1947.

The Prime Minister also responded to the allegation that India is behind targeted assassinations by unknown killers of terrorists.

Modi said that he knows that the people of Pakistan are worried and he is the root cause of their worries. However, he added that he was unable to understand why some people in India were crying over the issue.

I know, the people of Pakistan are nowadays worried. I also know that I am the root cause of their worries. But I also know that some people in our own country are also worried. Woh rote rahen samajh me aa sakta hai, yahan waale kyun rote hain, main samajh nahin sakta hoon (I can understand when they weep, but I cannot understand why our people weep), he said.

Taking a veiled dig at Congress, Modi said, A leader of a respected party, that ruled our country for 60 years and was in power during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, once alleged that it was not Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Kasab and his men, but our people who killed our own countrymen. This is really sad. How can such a leader give a statement in favour of Pakistan and Ajmal Kasab? My head hangs in shame whenever I hear such a remark. I feel pained.

Earlier on Thursday, while addressing an election rally in Punjabs Patiala, Modi noted that more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, and asserted if he had been in power he would have taken Kartapur Sahib from Pakistan before freeing their troops.

He also blamed the Congress for the countrys partition, saying they did it for the sake of power.

The partition left Kartar Sahib in Pakistans Punjab, just a few kilometres away from the border with India. For 70 years, we could have a darshan of the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara only with binoculars, Modi said.

He said opportunity presented itself to take back the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in 1971 when more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered before the Indian Army and we had the trump card in our hands.

Had Modi been there at that time, I would have taken Kartapur Sahib from them (made it part of Indian territory) and then freed their troops, he said.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a blistering attack on Lalu Prasad, alleging that the RJD chief worked neither for the welfare of backward classes nor the people belonging to his caste Yadav.

Addressing an election rally in favour of senior BJP leader and Union Minister R K Singh in Arrah, Shah said if Prasad, as part of the arrogant INDIA bloc, comes to power, jungle raj, abduction, and gang war will return to Bihar.

People dont want the return of jungle raj, gang war and abduction industry in Bihar. Lalu worked for neither the welfare of backward classes nor the people belonging to his own caste Yadav. They are under the wrong impression that Lalu works for them. He (Lalu) works for the promotion of his family only, Shah said.

The BJP leader also said, Lalu Ji allowed his two sons to become ministers, sent one daughter to Rajya Sabha, and another is contesting the Lok Sabha polls. He made his wife Rabri Devi the chief minister of Bihar. He made brothers of Rabri Devi ministersHe promotes only his sons and daughters. He cant think for the welfare of people belonging to his own caste.

He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for respecting people from backward classes and predicted a landslide victory for the NDA in Bihar. The NDA under the leadership of Modi ji will win 400-plus seats. He has done a lot for Bihar..

The BJP leader accused the Congress and the RJD of trying to rob reservation from the quotas of SCs, STs and OBCs and give such benefits to Muslims.

The NDA under the leadership of Modi ji will not allow this to happen. Congress, Lalu Prasad and Mamata Banerjee are against reservations to backward classes, he alleged.

They have been exposed, he said, referring to a Calcutta High Court order that cancelled OBC certificates issued in West Bengal since 2010.

The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday struck down as illegal the OBC status of several classes in West Bengal granted since 2010, sparking a political debate in the middle of the Lok Sabha elections.

The court observed that the inclusion of 77 classes of Muslims in the list of backward categories was to treat them as a vote bank.

The home minister said, After completion of the five phases of Lok Sabha elections, I can tell you the results. The sixth round of voting will take place tomorrow. Modi ji (who heads the NDA) has already bagged more than 310 seats.

He also claimed, Lalu jis party (RJD) will not be able to open its accounts. The INDIA alliance will face a humiliating defeat in this election.

Shah alleged that Congress and RJD were against the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya from the very beginning.

Congress leaders tried to scare us by saying that we cannot take back Pakistan-occupied Kashmir because Pakistan has atom bombs. PoK belongs to India. We will claim it back, the BJP leader said.

The NDA government under the leadership of PM Modi has ended terrorism and naxalism in the country, he said.

If CPI-ML (Liberation) candidate wins from the Arrah Lok Sabha seat, Naxalism will once again return to Bihar, Shah claimed.

R K Singh, Union Minister for Power and Renewable Energy, is pitted against CPI(M-L) Liberations Sudama Prasad who is in the fray as a Mahagathbandhan nominee.

Sudama Prasad is the CPI(M-L) Liberation sitting MLA from the Tararai assembly seat.

Singh, former union home secretary, has been representing the Arrah Lok Sabha seat since May 2014.

Voting will take place in Arrah on June 1.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Underlining that Lok Sabha 2024 is about Modi ki Guarantee, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, on Friday, said the choices between the BJP-led government and the I.N.D.I.A. bloc are clear to the people of India, given their track record and the future vision of the country offered by the two.

While speaking with News18, Jaishankar said the credibility of the guarantee derives from the track record of the Narendra Modi government seen in the past ten years. The minister slammed the opposition, saying that there is nothing common that unites them, adding that they dont have a vision and only evoke fear.

Is this election about Modi Ki guarantee? Absolutely. In a way, you have Prime Minister Modi, two terms tenures with a solid track record. The credibility of the guarantee derives from the credibility of the track record, the external affairs minister said during an interview with News18 Editor Zakka Jacob.

Theres a gaggle of people

Taking a dig at the opposition alliance, Jaishankar said Theres not a single guarantee offered by the I.N.D.I.A bloc. Theres a gaggle of people out there, each one of them, in fact, very often they pull in very different directions. About the only guarantee that they can suggest is, look, if you try, if you get, you know, somewhere, support us. We are not, we are different. I mean, theres nothing beyond that which unites them.

Jaishankar said the issue before the country is based on the aspirations and the goal of Viksit Bharat in the next 25 years. Its only a Modi government which can get us moving in that direction. I think the choices are pretty clear. The choices are a 10-year track record and a 25-year journey and an optimistic, optimist, confident vision of India.

I think, what the other side is offering is, frankly, a very poor track record, many track records, in fact, of wearing quality, most of it not so good. And also, I would say, in a way, they dont have a vision. They are evoking fears, they are evoking, you know if you do this, this will change, that will change. I think its a vote both for the achievements as well as for the aspirations, he added.

India will become 35-40T economy

When asked a question about the governments plans for young voters, Jaishankar said, Someone whos, lets say, 21. They will need to think, what has changed in the last 10 years or the last 5 years of their life? And I think they would give a lot of credit to the Prime Minister personally and to his government. So, in a sense, you can say the past, then there is the present. There are a host of challenges and opportunities. Who is best geared to take them forward?

Clock starts ticking June 4th, you are off the block. Whos ready to lead? Who has a pathway, who has a plan, you know, who has the experience, the credibility of delivery? And then theres the future. Because we are talking of people today who would be below 30, yeah, in their lifetime, in their working lifetime. They will realize what it means to be Viksit Bharat. You know, they will see this country go to become a 30-35-40 trillion economy.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
And judgement day is here. About Saturdays Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha battle, it is safe to say that ballot boxes in seven constituencies will hold the answer to who will win the 2024 elections. History tells us that Delhis voters, spread across seven constituencies, have their finger on the national pulse. Perhaps being close to the corridors of power, they have acquired an incomparable insight into who is best suited to govern India. The party they have picked in nine consecutive Lok Sabha elections, over a span of nearly four decades, has either gone on to form the government on its own steam or has provided the Prime Minister at the head of the national coalition.

Lets begin with the Lok Sabha elections of 1989. Delhis seven seats saw the Bharatiya Janata Party led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee win four seats, while VP Singhs Janata Dal netted one seat, and the Congress won the remaining two seats. The mixed verdict, where each party won some seats but couldnt dominate, mirrored the messy outcome at the national level. India was to have its first coalition government since 1977. VP Singh was prime minister, and the BJP lent the government support.

Just two years later in 1991, the Janata Dal was wiped out in Delhi: the Congress won two and the BJP five. But less than 0.5% vote share separated the two parties. The indecision among Delhis voters reflected a split mandate which was echoed by voters across the country. The Congress cobbled together a coalition under ignominious circumstances denying its adversaries a stab at government formation.

In the 1998 and 1999 Lok Sabha elections, the Delhi voter was quite decisive. The BJP swept Delhi, winning six out of seven and seven out of seven seats respectively. Atal Bihari Vajpayee formed the NDA government at the Centre.

But Delhi was going to desert the BJP again. This time in 2004 and 2009 when the BJP was wiped out in the capital. The Congress triumphs also saw the NDA lose power at the Centre.

And since then the Capitals voters have resolutely stood behind the Narendra Modi-led BJP in 2014 and 2019. The unambiguous backing for the BJP was also reflected at the national level by voters across India who voted in the first majority governments in 30 years.

The Prime minister will be hoping that he continues to make an impression on discerning Delhi voters. Because if he hasnt, then he will be tempting history to return to power.

And yes, before we forget, consumed as we are by the disproportionate importance of Delhis seven constituencies and their voters, Phase 6 is also seeing contests in seven other states and union territories to elect 51 MPs. Including Delhi, the BJP and its NDA allies won 42 of these seats last time. The Congress-led UPA won seven seats and the remaining eight were split between the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Biju Janata Dal.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Delving into the ongoing political slugfest over faith-based reservation, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has condemned communal attacks on the majority religion and affirmed the BJPs commitment to existing reservation policies. In an interview with News18 Editor Zakka Jacob, Jaishankar highlighted the Congress partys history of amending the Constitution and urged voters to consider the contrasting visions offered by the two parties.

Countering Congress allegation that BJP may change the Constitution in case of a majority in Lok Sabha polls, Jaishankar said Why does the opposition, particularly the Congress party, talk about changing the Constitution? Because they have done it most of all. Eighty-odd amendments have been done by them. Whenever they had numbers, and we saw how they behaved during emergency (1975-77). So, in a sense, they think that because they behave in a certain way, other people will behave in that way. Sorry, we are not them.

BJP committed to reservation

On the issue of reservations, the external affairs minister underlined that the BJP is committed to the practice, and tradition of reservations. A lot of it derives from the Constitution. Who are the people who have tried to change it? Who has taken away from OBC? Who has brought in religious faith as a criteria of reservation? Not the BJP, it is the Congress party. Theyve (opposition) attempted it, the courts have struck it down, theyre still trying it in Karnataka, he said.

Jaishankars remarks came in the wake of the Calcutta High Courts decision to strike down several classes as Other Backward Classes (OBC) under an Act of 2012 of West Bengal for reservation of vacancies in services and posts in the state, finding them illegal. Challenging faith-based reservation, Jaishankar argued the opposition has used the minority argument to actually do away with the reservation argument. If anybody has threatened reservation, you can see the record. Bears it out. Now, if you are going to actually use, you know, advocate faith-based reservation, I am entitled to that and challenge it. Thats not being communal, he added.

Alluding to a remark made by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin last year on Sanatan Dharma, Jaishankar added, I will tell you what is being communal. Attacking the majority religion, which is what we saw DMK doing, and everybody else going along with it, that is being communal. Attacking Ramakrishna Mission is being communal, the minister said in reference to recent remarks made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who claimed that some monks were backing the BJP in the election. Lets be straight. Here is attacking the majority religion of this country. Not being communal. Do you know, that because it is a majority religion, others are supposed to get a free pass? I think I have every right to contest that.

Two ideas by Congress

Jaishankar continued saying, In this election, weve heard from, especially from Congress, two very important ideas, and the country needs to reflect on it. Idea number one, that you should have faith-based reservation, which obviously will be at the expense of currently existing reservation, and they have a track record to show them in it. Number two, they actually want to do this. I will assess assets across the country, and I, as the state, will have the right to redistribute it, he said. Jaishankar said Rahul Gandhi is offering a vision of faith-based reservation and a vision of leftist redistribution, of the socialist policies that destroyed this country, which killed job creation in this country.

Jaishankars remarks came days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched a fresh attack on the Congress, accusing its top leaders, including first PM Jawaharlal Nehru, of having opposed reservations for deprived castes. Had it not been for Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Nehru would have never agreed to quotas for SCs, STs and OBCs. Nehru had made his views clear on the issue in letters he wrote to the then chief ministers in the country, claimed Modi at a rally in Purbi Champaran Lok Sabha constituency in Bihar.

This has been the Congress trait under successive prime ministers. Be it, Indira Gandhi or Rajiv Gandhi, they all opposed reservations. SCs, STs and OBCs have never got respect from the Congress, the PM added. Modi made the allegation while lashing out at the opposition for spreading a falsehood that the BJP, upon return to power with a brute majority, could scrap quotas by changing the Constitution. Modi also charged the INDIA bloc with having plans to give reservation benefits on the basis of religion.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress on Friday for extending their support to Islamic law Sharia under the guise of the Muslim Personal law.

He also pressed on the need to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a common set of laws that would cover customary laws across faiths and govern issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and maintenance.

While addressing a public gathering in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi, PM Modi said, Modi has pledged to a Uniform Civil Code. Indian citizens, whether they are Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian or Buddhist, should have uniform civil laws. But Congress is opposing the Uniform Civil Code. Congress supports Sharia in the name of Muslim Personal Law.

#WATCH | Addressing a public gathering in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Modi has pledged to a Uniform Civil Code. Indian citizens, whether they are Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian or Buddhist, should have uniform civil laws. But Congress is opposing pic.twitter.com/sBx0TGNMIa ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2024

Modi also said Kangana Ranaut, the BJP candidate from the Mandi constituency, represents the aspirations of youngsters and our daughters.

He urged the electorate to give a befitting reply to the Congress for making derogatory statements against the actor that he described as an insult to Mandi and Himachal Pradesh.

Kangana will become your voice and work for the development of Mandi, he added.

The Prime Minister also accused the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh of selectively distributing central aid meant for victims of last years floods and promised to find out where the money went once he returns to power.

Addressing a poll rally in Mandi, the prime minister also called Himachal Pradesh the sankalp bhumi for construction of the Ram mandir in Ayodhya, referring to the pledge taken by the BJP in Palampur to build the temple.

(with agency inputs)

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Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) three-time Bathinda MP and former Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal has hit out at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for sitting on a dharna in Bhagat Singhs village for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Punjab will punish Bhagwant Mann for sitting on a dharna in Shaheed Bhagat Singhs village for liquor scam accused Arvind Kejriwal, she told CNN-News18.

In an interview during her campaign trail in Bathinda, where she is seeking a fourth continuous term, Harsimrat said both Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress were fooling the people of Punjab by cursing each other in Punjab while being in an alliance at the national level. When you ask them that if any of you win where will you go, they say we will go into the (opposition) alliance. So why are they telling people lies? These are fraud parties. Their only agenda is to beat SAD which is in a resurgence mode in Punjab, Harsmirat Badal told CNN-News18. Bathinda will go to polls in the last phase of Lok Sabha Election on June 1 while the counting of votes will take place on June 4.

SAD Is Not Equal to Udta Punjab

The SAD has suffered serious reverses in the past two assembly elections in Punjab, being reduced to just three seats in 2022. The AAP won all assembly seats in Bhatinda then. SAD stalwarts like the late Prakash Singh Badal and Sukhbir Badal also lost their seats and the AAP candidate who beat senior Badal from Lambi is now pitted against Harsimrat from Bathinda. But Harsimrat has said that what happened in 2022 and 2017 was due to a slander campaign against SAD by both the AAP and the Congress to defame her party.

At our time, they said we were selling drugs and they made a huge issue of sacrilege cases. Now after seven years, they have not sorted out sacrilege issue and they have not been able to eliminate drugs. They dont want sacrilege cases to be solved as if they are, it will be proved that SAD had no role in it. AAP came to power on the basis of putting wrong allegations on SAD, she said.

Harsimrat told CNN-News18 that she is taking the matter head-on. I ask in every meeting  in last seven years, have drugs reduced or increased? Everyone says the latter, and they say drugs were not there in our time because we were arresting drug peddlers. They wanted to finish drugs in 10 days but drug abuse has reached 10 times higher. AAP MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap has said that Punjab Police and the Bhagwant Mann government are together selling drugs in Amritsar, Harsimrat said.

She said AAP no longer talks about drugs or sacrilege cases. They have weakened the cases to such an extent that cases got transferred out of Punjab. They dont want sacrilege cases to be solved as if they are, it will be proved that Akali Dal had no role in it. So how will they use it in every election and bad mouth us, she questioned.

Mann Insulted Bhagat Singhs Legacy

Harsimrat also told CNN-News18 that it was shocking that CM Bhagwant Mann recently went to Bhagat Singhs village to stage a dharna in favour of Arvind Kejriwal who was jailed in the liquor scam case. He insulted the legacy and sacrifice of Bhagat Singh. This CM mad huge promises and showed dreams like Rs 1000 a month to women, jobs and loan waiver. Not a single woman in Punjab has got Rs 1000 so far, Harsimrat said. The AAP government has not fulfilled this poll promise in Punjab so far, the CM has admitted.

She added that the AAP had said it will be against VIP culture but the CM moved in a cavalcade of numerous cars surrounded by 100s of security-men. No one has seen the CM in a village in the last two years. Every work done by SAD government on development has come to a standstill as they have not even maintained those works. Every segment of society is on dharna. Farmers are on dharna, youth are on dharna for joblessness, women have not got their due  where is the Rangla Punjab that Mann promised, Harsimrat questioned.

She accused the Mann government of looting the public exchequer and using it to make Kejriwals corruption shine all over the country. In seven years, the debt on Punjab has increased and doubled  it was never of this level in the last 50 years. There has been no new school, no new grid, no new flyover. Further welfare schemes were also curtailed, Harsimrat said.

No Going Back to BJP

Harsimrat Kaur Badal also made it clear that there was no going back to the BJP. We were very clear that we parted ways with BJP due to farmer issues and farm bills. We broke the alliance and I left the government. BJP has since meddled into our religious affairs in Haryana and Delhi gurudwara committees. Farmers continue to be on dharna and were not allowed to cross the Punjab border which was made like the Pakistan border. Haryana police shot by drones and even killed one young man. Our government in Punjab did not even have the spine to stand up and say how you entered our land and killed our farmers, she said.

Harsimrat accused the former chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh of similarly being hand in glove with BJP and hence he joined them as well. She said the INDIA bloc has further promised in their manifesto that they will convert the state capital Chandigarh into a state like Delhi and this was a dangerous move. AAP also wants to give away water to Haryana and Delhi through the SYL Canal. Akalis will fight it and again there will be bloodshed in Punjab, Harsimrat told CNN-News18.

She added that Bhagwant Mann was not being able to fight for Punjab, and the state was being destabilised.

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At least seven people were killed and around 20 others injured after the minibus they were travelling in met with an accident in Haryanas Ambala in the early hours of Friday.

The accident occurred at Ambala-Delhi-Jammu National Highway near Mohra village, which is close to Ambala Cantt.

The bus was carrying approximately 30 people from Uttar Pradesh to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir, according to the police.

The injured were taken to a nearby hospital, they added.

All the passengers on the bus were from the same family. According to survivors, they were asleep when the bus was hit by a truck.

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Highlighting the severe water scarcity in 19 districts of Maharashtra, Sharad Pawar on Friday criticised the state government for its handling of the drought-like situation. While the Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is in the Opposition, his nephew Ajits NCP faction is part of the ruling alliance, which includes the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

ALSO READ | Marathwada Battles Water Scarcity: CM Joins Hands With Aamir Khans Paani Foundation, NGOs For Water Management

At a press conference in Mumbai, Pawar pointed out that approximately 73% of Maharashtra is under the shadow of drought, yet the state has not taken adequate measures to address the crisis.

The former agriculture minister emphasised that around 1,837 water tankers are operational in 1,250 villages, with additional tankers being deployed whenever needed. However, he stressed that these measures are insufficient, given the scale of the problem. The severe drought-like situation has led to significant water shortages, with many dams and reservoirs running critically low. For instance, the Jayakwadi project in Marathwada has only 5.5% water left, and some major reservoirs in Dharashiv, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Ahmednagar have less than 5% water storage.

He expressed concern over the absence of key officials in crucial meetings about drought management, criticising the agriculture ministers non-attendance. Pawar underscored the importance of coordinated efforts and accountability among government officials to mitigate the impact.

He also noted the alarming water levels in key regions: Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has only 10% water in its dams, Pune division has 35%, and Nashiks dams are at 22% capacity. He provided statistics to underscore the gravity of the situation, revealing that 10,572 water tankers are currently in use across the state, a stark increase from last years 1,108 tankers. He warned that if the government does not wake up to this crisis, there are other ways to compel action, hinting at potential political or public pressure tactics.

The Marathwada region, known for its recurring water scarcity issues, faces a dire situation with depleted water resources and inadequate rainfall.

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The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Wednesday cracked down on illegal pubs and bars across the city, days after a teenager, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, fatally knocked down two motorbike-borne software engineers with his Porsche.

However, speaking exclusively to CNN-News18 on Friday, Pune municipal commissioner Rajendra Bhosale said that the action had nothing to do with the crash.

The 17-year-old boy reportedly spent Rs 48,000 within 90 minutes at one of the two pubs  Cosie restaurant and Hotel Blak Club  he visited hours before he rammed his luxury vehicle into the bike, killing 24-year-olds Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta.

We are not targeting anyone. In fact, I had representation from the association of restaurants and we tried to explain what can be done for better functioning between the corporation and restaurants and pubs, the municipal commissioner said.

Bhosale revealed that 89 locations were found to be illegal, including pubs, bars, and restaurants. Some of them have been demolished, he added.

A notice has been issued to some others, and they have been asked to demolish illegal structures themselves. If they dont, Pune Municipal Corporation will have another mass demolition drive soon, he said. We had intended to demolish these a long time back, but couldnt because our machinery was busy in elections.

Pune, of late, has seen a rise in pubs and rooftop restaurants in residential areas as the youth population of the city increases due to a burgeoning IT sector and the influx of students.

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The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of West Bengal Police has arrested one suspect in connection with the mysterious death of Bangladeshi Member of Parliament Anwarul Azim Anar, who was last seen at a rented accommodation in New Town near Kolkata on Wednesday.

According to sources privy to the development, the arrested suspect was hired by the Awami League MPs friend Akhtaruzzaman, a US citizen, in whose rented accommodation he was murdered.

The accused is identified as Jihad Hawladar (24), a Bangladeshi national who is a butcher by profession.

Hawaldar, a resident of Khulna district in Bangladesh, was brought to Kolkata two months before by the MPs friend Akhtaruzzaman, a US citizen of Bangladeshi origin, who is the mastermind of this planned gruesome murder, sources said.

Details of Gruesome Murder

During questioning, the accused told police that on Akhtaruzzamans orders, he and four other Bangladeshi nationals smothered and killed Anwarul Azim Anar in the flat.

Thereafter they deskinned his entire body in the flat, removed all the flesh and minced the flesh to destroy the identity. Then, they packed everything in a polybag, cut the bones into small pieces and packed them as well. The accused then used various modes of transportation to dispose of those packets at different locations within the Kolkata area, sources added.

The arrested accused was produced at the Barasat court today, which sent it to 12-day police custody.

What We Know So Far

The initial probe into the murder of Anwarul Azim Anar revealed that one of his close friends, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to kill him. The Awami League MPs friend owns a flat in Kolkata, and is probably in the US at present, a senior police officer said.

Police also said that the flat in Kolkatas New Town area, where the Bangladesh MP was last seen entering, was rented out to his friend by its owner, an excise department employee.

It was a well-planned murder. A huge amount of money, around Rs 5 crore was paid by an old friend of the MP to kill him. Further investigation is underway, the officer said on Thursday.

Anar, who went missing in Kolkata on May 13, was found murdered and three people have been arrested, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said on Wednesday.

The West Bengal Police had said the investigation of the case has been taken up by the state CID.

Anars body was yet to be recovered.

However, the state CID has found blood stains inside the apartment of a luxury condominium in New Town on Kolkatas outskirts, where the MPs whereabouts were last traced on May 13. They also recovered several plastic bags, which they believe were used to dump the body parts.

Circumstantial evidence indicates that the MP was first strangulated and then his dead body was mutilated in several parts, police claimed.

The body parts were probably put inside plastic bags and scattered at different locations. We also suspect that some parts were kept in a refrigerator and we have collected samples, the officer said.

The search for the missing MP, who reportedly arrived in Kolkata on May 12 to undergo medical treatment, began six days later after Gopal Biswas, a resident of Baranagar in north Kolkata and an acquaintance of the Bangladeshi politician, filed a complaint with the local police on May 18.

Anar had stayed at Biswass house upon arrival.

In his complaint, Biswas stated that Anar left his Baranagar residence for a doctors appointment in the afternoon of May 13, while stating that he would be back home for dinner.

Biswas claimed that the Bangladesh MP went incommunicado on May 17, which prompted him to file a missing complaint a day later.

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Vishal Agrawal, the father of the 17-year-old Pune teen whose speeding Porsche knocked down and killed two people on Sunday, was sent to judicial custody till June 7 by a special court in the city.

The Pune police, investigating the hit-and-run case, had requested an extension of the teens fathers custody to allow for further investigation.

Two IT engineers, hailing from Madhya Pradesh, were killed when a speeding Porsche, allegedly driven by a 17-and-a-half-year-old boy in an inebriated state, hit their motorcycle at Punes Kalyani Nagar junction on May 19.

So far, five people have been arrested in the case, with the sixth being the minors father, who is a prominent realtor in the city.

The police also have submitted an application to the magistrate to add additional sections to the FIR. These include Section 420 of the IPC, along with Sections 65(e) and 18 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act. These charges are to be added against the accuseds father, bar owners, and managers. Additionally, the police stated they need to investigate further aspects, including details accessed from mobile phones and bank account information of the accused, which need to be cross-verified with Agrawal

Here are the major developments from the Pune Porsche crash case today:

The driver, who was claimed to be behind the wheel in the fatal crash, has now alleged that he was coerced by the teens father to take the blame and admit to being the driver at the time of the accident.

According to the driver, he was promised a handsome reward by the boys father if he confessed to being the person behind the wheel, sources told News18.

The driver further disclosed to the police, he had received a call from the minors father, real estate developer Vishal Agrawal, around 2:30 am. The driver also stated that on the day of the incident, he had insisted on driving the car, but the teens father had allowed his son to take the wheel.

Meanwhile, Vishal Agrawal, the father of the 17-year-old, has claimed that he has not committed any offence and is being falsely implicated. He further stated that, in addition to being a successful businessman, he is also a social worker and a regular taxpayer, sources informed.

Pune police chief said they are trying to make a watertight case against all accused. Addressing the media, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said the minor was in his senses and aware of what he was doing at the time of the accident. We are trying to make this a watertight case. We have already filed a case against the father of the accused and the bar owners. The technical analysis of the evidence is underway, Kumar said.

The officer mentioned that the police have CCTV footage of the accused drinking liquor in the pub. The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report we have other evidence also. He (the minor accused) was in his senses. It was not as if all of them were so drunk that they could not understand anything. They had full knowledge that due to their conduct, an incident like section 304 cab happen. There is no fact about the pizza party at the police station, Kumar said.

Additionally, the Pune police chief revealed that there was an attempt to tamper with evidence to suggest that the Porsche involved in the fatal accident was being driven by a family driver rather than the 17-year-old currently in custody.

Pune Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale told News18 that Wednesdays crackdown on illegal pubs and bars across the city by the civic body has nothing to do with the crash case. We are not targeting anyone. In fact, I had representation from the association of restaurants and we tried to explain what can be done for better functioning between the corporation and restaurants and pubs, the municipal commissioner said.

Bhosale revealed that 89 locations, including pubs, bars, and restaurants, were found to be operating illegally. Some of them have been demolished, he added.

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The National Crisis Management Committee, the countrys apex decision-making body on emergency situation, Friday asked all fishermen currently in the Bay of Bengal to return to safety in view of impending cyclone Rema, and directed authorities to ensure no life is lost and damage to property is minimum.

The NCMC, headed by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, discussed the preparedness for the cyclone at a meeting here. It was informed that 12 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams were deployed at vulnerable areas and five additional teams are on standby, according to an official release.

Rescue and relief teams of the Army, Navy and Coast Guard along with ships and aircrafts have been kept in readiness. Regular alerts and advisories are being sent by Director General, Shipping to the ports of Kolkata and Paradip, the release said.

The cyclone, named Remal, brewing in the Bay of Bengal is expected to make landfall between the Sagar Island of West Bengal and Bangladeshs Khepupara Sunday midnight, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Gauba asked the government of West Bengal to review the placement of large hoardings in the areas likely to be affected by the cyclonic storm.

At least 16 people were killed in Mumbai last fortnight after collapse of a giant hoarding due to a dust storm.

The cabinet secretary assured the government of West Bengal that all central agencies are on full alert and available for assistance.

IMD Director General briefed the NCMC about the current status of the depression over the central Bay of Bengal, about 800 km south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh) and 810 km south of Canning (West Bengal).

It is very likely to move northeastwards and intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm by the night of May 25, the release said.

Thereafter, it will move nearly northwards and very likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between the Sagar Island and Khepupara around May 26 midnight as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting upto 130 kmph from the evening of May 26.

The chief secretary of West Bengal apprised the NCMC of the preparatory measures being taken to protect the population in the expected path of the cyclonic storm and measures being taken by the local administration.

Fishermen have been asked not to venture out into the sea and those at sea have been called to safe berth. District control rooms have also been activated and are monitoring the situation.

Adequate shelters, power supply, medicine and emergency services have been kept in readiness. Emergency teams have been deployed by the Ministry of Power for immediate power restoration.

The NCMC directed that essential services like power and telecom, in case of damage, should be restored in the shortest possible time.

Reviewing the preparedness measures of the central agencies and the government of West Bengal, the cabinet secretary stressed that all necessary preventive and precautionary measures be taken by the state government and central agencies.

The aim should be to keep the loss of lives to zero and the damage to property and infrastructure such as power and telecom minimum, he said, adding the essential services, in case of damage, should be restored in the shortest possible time.

The cabinet secretary said that it must be ensured that the fishermen currently at sea are called back and people from vulnerable areas are evacuated well in time, the release said.

The meeting was attended by the chief secretary of West Bengal, union home secretary, secretaries in the ministries of power, telecom, ports, shipping & waterways, petroleum and natural gas, and the department of fisheries besides other senior officials.

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A helicopter with seven people, including pilgrims, on board made an emergency landing in Uttarakhands Kedarnath after developing a technical snag early on Friday.

The helicopter landed a few metres from the helipad at the Himalayan temple, an official said.

A Leonardo A119 Koala helicopter owned by Kestrel Aviation, Callsign VT-CLR, lost control at about 0700h today morning as it approached the Kedarnath Helipad for landing in Uttarakhand.It was a miraculous escape for the crew and the six passengers onboard the helicopter.The pic.twitter.com/9oMEUhDtZY Ashok Bijalwan   (@AshTheWiz) May 24, 2024

It was carrying seven people, including six pilgrims and the pilot. Everyone is safe, he said.

Uttarakhand: An accident was averted in Kedarnath Dham. Due to a problem in its rotor, a helicopter, belonging to Crystal Company, landed away from helipad. There were 6 people on board, all of them are safe. The accident happened while going from Phata to Kedarnath Dham pic.twitter.com/MflCI2vgT0 ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) May 24, 2024

Rudraprayag District Magistrate Saurabh Gaharwar said the helicopter took off from the Sirsi helipad for Kedarnath early on Friday.

It developed a technical snag in its rear motor, prompting the pilot to make an emergency landing a few metres from the helipad in Kedarnath, he said citing preliminary reports.

The pilot kept his cool and took a quick decision, averting a major mishap, Gaharwar said.

Everyone is safe and the pilgrims have even returned after having darshan at the temple, he added.

The incident occurred around 7 am and further investigations are underway, Gaharwar said.

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Uday Nagaraju, an IT professional from Hyderabad, might be standing at the cusp of history as he gets ready for an electoral battle in the UK. He was recently announced as Labour Partys parliamentary candidate from North Bedfordshire.

The 45-year-old went to the UK to pursue MS. After a successful career in AI consulting, he is diving into a full-fledged political career as a contestant in the general elections in the UK, scheduled to be held in January 2025. However, Uday is not new to public service.

After completing his early education in Warangal district, Uday completed the rest of his schooling from Hyderabad. He studied engineering at KITS at Ramtek in Maharashtra and then left for the UK for higher studies.

Speaking to News18, his sister, Maitreyi Prasad, said: Uday had a keen interest in politics and public service from childhood. He is the founder of AI Policy Labs which explores how AI can be used for social good. He is inspired by former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and Mahatma Gandhi due to the contributions they made in developing our country. Last year, he completed a Masters programme from University College London in Public Administration. He lives with his wife and daughter in the UK, while I live with my mother in Hyderabad.

After he was selected as a candidate from Labour Party, Uday said: Our towns and villages, like Biggleswade, Sandy and Potton have suffered under successive Conservative governments. We require an active MP who is accessible and prioritises the interests of residents.

Uday Nagaraju is pitted against Richard Fuller from Conservative Party. The North Bedfordshire seat has traditionally been a bastion of the Conservatives.

Uday, who has seamlessly integrated technology into public service for years and worked at the grassroots level, said: Only a Labour government can deliver the change that North Bedfordshire needs: getting the NHS back on its feet and taking back our streets to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

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A Delhi court on Friday sent Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals close aide Bibhav Kumar to four-day judicial custody in connection with the alleged assault on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal.

Kumar, the personal assistant to Kejriwal, allegedly assaulted Maliwal at the chief ministers official residence on May 13.

He was under police custody since Saturday.

Metropolitan Magistrate Gaurav Goyal allowed the prosecutions plea seeking Kumars judicial custody for four days.

The Delhi Police had arrested Kumar on May 18.

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Thirteen years after actor Laila Khan and five other members of her family were killed and buried in a pit at their Igatpuri farmhouse, a sessions court in Mumbai on Friday sentenced her stepfather, Parvez Tak, to death. Tak was the third husband of Lailas mother, Selina.

Additional sessions judge Sachin Pawar had on May 9 found Tak guilty of murder and destruction of evidence, among other offences under the Indian Penal Code. The quantum of his sentence was decided on Friday.

The actor, her mother and her four siblings were killed at their bungalow at Igatpuri in Nashik district of Maharashtra in February 2011.

The killings came to light a few months later when the Jammu and Kashmir police arrested Tak. The decomposed bodies of the victims were recovered from the bungalow later.

The prosecutions case was that Tak first killed Selina after an argument over her properties and then killed Laila and her four siblings.

The prosecution examined 40 witnesses against Tak.

(With PTI Inputs)

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To tackle the drought conditions in Marathwada, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has declared a comprehensive plan to enhance water availability in the region with the help of various NGOs, including Aamir Khans Paani Foundation.

This initiative focuses on desilting dams and fields to increase water storage capacity. By boosting storage, the overall water reserve will rise, ensuring better water management and utilisation. The directive also includes instructions to avoid using drinking water for construction purposes.

During a drought review meeting in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Shinde detailed the ongoing efforts, mentioning that 1,837 water tankers are currently operational, supplying water to 1,250 villages. Additional tankers will be deployed as needed, with local officials like Gramsevaks and Talathis responsible for communicating their requirements. The arrangement also includes provisions for fodder to support livestock.

Shinde emphasised the importance of maintaining water quality and cleanliness. Previously, funds were allocated through the DPC to grow fodder, resulting in sufficient stock within the district. He reassured that despite outstanding water bills, supply schemes would not be halted, and measures are being taken to address the decline in groundwater levels.

The Chief Minister also warned against the sale of fake seeds and fertilizers, asserting that violators will face strict legal action, including imprisonment. The government will conduct surveys and inspections to prevent the distribution of counterfeit agricultural inputs, protecting farmers from potential losses. Furthermore, Shinde instructed officials to carry out damage assessments due to unseasonal weather and ensure prompt compensation for affected farmers.

The Marathwada region has been grappling with severe drought conditions, leading to a significant depletion of water resources. The governments multi-faceted approach also involves promoting water conservation practices among farmers and encouraging the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques. Efforts are underway to implement rainwater harvesting systems and revitalize traditional water bodies to augment the water supply.

The administration is also considering long-term strategies such as interlinking rivers and enhancing watershed management to mitigate the impacts of drought and ensure sustainable water availability in Marathwada. These initiatives aim to create a resilient framework to tackle recurring droughts in the region.

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West Bengal Police have recovered CCTV footage purportedly linked to an apartment near Kolkata where a Bangladesh lawmaker was last seen before his alleged brutal killing, according to sources on Friday, even as speculations over the involvement of a woman added another layer of mystery to the sensational case. Police have yet to find the body of Awami Leagues Member of Parliament, Anwarul Azim Anar, and they suspect that it has been dismembered and disposed of.

In the CCTV footage, two men could be seen with a green trolley bag and plastic packets. It was, however, not clear if this footage was from before or after the alleged murder, or from inside or outside the apartment. Anars body is feared to have been chopped into pieces  his skin peeled and bones cut  and carried out in bags and plastic packets, police sources say..

VIDEO | Police recover CCTV visuals from the apartment in #Kolkata where #Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar was last seen with his friend.The initial probe into the murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar revealed that one of his friends had paid around Rs 5 crore to kill the pic.twitter.com/Dnix44WHLf  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 24, 2024

West Bengals Criminal Investigation Department (CID) suspects the MP was lured into a New Town flat by a woman and then murdered by contract killers, according to a report in Bangladeshs The Daily Star. Several media outlets have reported that a woman named Shilasti Rahman is under the scanner and that she was close to the mastermind of the alleged killing. She is believed to have been detained by police in Dhaka.

Meanwhile, officials in West Bengal have arrested 24-year-old Jihad Hawladar, a Bangladeshi national, from the bordering North 24-Paraganas district. He is suspected to have skinned Anars body, police sources say. They say that Hawladar has confessed to killing the politician with the help of four other people. Across the border, Bangladesh authorities have made three more arrests. There was no immediate word on the motive behind the alleged murder.

An initial probe found out that the MPs close friend Akhtaruzzaman Shahin, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime, news agency PTI reported, quoting a senior police official that it did not name. Shilasti Rahman has been linked to Shahin.

Suspected hitman Hawladar, a butcher by profession, came to Kolkata two months ago, much before Anars arrival. The Bangladeshi lawmaker landed in West Bengal on May 12 for medical treatment and first stayed with a friend in Baranagar area. He was seen last seen in an apartment in New Town area the next day.

Investigation indicated that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap laid by a woman who was also close to the victims friend. It seems Azim was lured to the New Town flat by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat, an official in Bangladesh said, according to The Daily Star.

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It is that time of year when we make our brothers feel extra special. Yes, you guessed it right. Its Brothers Day today on May 24. On this special occasion, people from all over the world do something special for their male siblings. While some buy gifts, others plan dinner, and many simply surprise their brothers with a cake and a bouquet. But one thing we all do is wish them all the happiness. And to do so, we need no money. If you also have an elder or a younger brother, below are some wishes you can send them to mark the occasion.

Brothers Day 2024: Messages, quotes, wishes, and greetings to share with your brother

1. To my brother, heres to a day dedicated to all our silly fights in childhood. I wish you a life full of happiness, prosperity, and lots of success. Happy Brothers Day!

2. May this Brothers Day deepen our bond and dispel even the slightest misunderstandings. I wish you good health and happiness.

3. On this special day, I wish you a lifetime of happy memories and send you virtual hugs. May you always attain what you desire. Happy Brothers Day.

4. Hi brother. I know we dont talk daily, but on this day, I want you to remember all our childhood memories, our little celebrations, and those silly fights. Stay happy. I wish you a great Brothers Day.

5. Brothers are the only ones who stand up when you need them the most. On this Brothers Day, I would like to thank you for all the times you have supported me and helped me.

6. Before calling you and talking for hours, I want to take a moment and wish you a very Happy Brothers Day. May this day bring you a lot of happiness, success, and good health.

7. From a little sister to her elder brother  thank you for being my backbone. On this day, I want you to know how special you are to me. Stay like this forever as I will always need you.

8. No matter if we live in different houses, different cities, or different countries, I will always feel closest to you, my brother. Thank you for the support you have always provided. Happy Brothers Day.

9. I might have never said this, but I truly love my brother. I hope, just like our childhood days, we can sit, watch TV, and go to our favourite park to play. Meet me soon.

10. Happy Brothers Day to the most wonderful brother on this planet. May you live long and continue to be my biggest support system.

National Brothers Day FAQs

When is National Brothers Day?

National Brothers Day is celebrated annually on May 24.

Who started National Brothers Day?

C. Daniel Rhodes of Alabama founded National Brothers Day in 2005 to honour her brother.

Why do we celebrate National Brothers Day?

Its a day to recognise and appreciate the unique bond between brothers, biological or not. Its a time to show our brothers how much they mean to us.

Is National Brothers Day international?

While not official in all countries, National Brothers Day is celebrated in many places around the world. Some countries have their own holidays celebrating siblings, like Raksha Bandhan in India.
Ananya Panday is one of the most beautiful actresses in Bollywood. She is always serving major looks and enjoys a massive fan following on Instagram, where she often posts her ravishing photos. Her latest shoot in a black bodycon dress is no exception.

On Friday, the actress took to her Instagram account and dropped a bunch of gorgeous photos of her latest look. Ananya looked stunning in a black dress as she posed in her dressing room. Check out her hot photos here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ananya (@ananyapanday)

Ananya Panday seems to be moving on from her alleged breakup with actor Aditya Roy Kapur. From spending time with friends to bringing a new pet home, the actress is taking her own sweet time to relax and pamper herself. Reportedly, the couple, after being together for around two years, parted ways a month ago. With that said, being in a relaxed mood, Ananya recently spent her time watching Formula 1 and the IPL simultaneously.

Back in 2022, rumours started making the rounds about Ananya Panday and Aditya Roy Kapur being in a relationship, which gained momentum over time. They were frequently spotted attending common parties and also going on vacations.

While fans were pretty much convinced about the lovebirds budding romance, many were left shocked after media reports confirmed their breakup. A close friend of the two actors spoke to the Bombay Times and said, They broke up almost a month ago. They were going quite well, and the breakup came as a shock to all of us. They are cordial with each other. Ananya is trying to move on; of course, theres hurt. She is spending time with her new furry friend. Aditya is also trying to deal with the situation maturely. However, neither of them has confirmed or denied their relationship.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Ananya Panday was last seen in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan. She has films like Call Me Bae and Shankara in the pipeline. She is also said to play a role in Vikramaditya Motwanes Control.
Heeramandi  The Diamond Bazaar fame Taha Shah Badussha is the current national crush among audiences. It seems like his popularity among female fans has now reached Cannes. A recent video making rounds on the Internet these days suggests so. In the video, the actor is mobbed by his excited female fans who appear thrilled and joyous to meet their favourite star.

The video starts with a bunch of girls posing for a group photo with Taha taking the center stage. Next, we can see a few other fans clicking a selfie with the Luv Ka The End actor. As the video proceeds, the actor also obliged his fans requests to click individual pictures with each one of them. We can see him patiently waiting as the girls keep rushing to pose with him individually.

Dressed in a white undershirt and black overshirt paired with matching black comfy trousers, Taha sported a chic look as he walked through the streets of Cannes, meeting and greeting his fans. He further added style to her look by opting for statement sunglasses and white sneakers.

The video shared by an Instagram handle named Instant Bollywood was captioned, From rising star to global sensation! Soon after the clip caught everyones attention, viewers poured in their reactions. A fan remarked, 10 years he has been in the industry and suddenly after a series he is getting the reward. Taha deserves all the love, said another. He is very charming indeed, a female fan gushed over the actor.

Meanwhile, Taha Shah is currently garnering love for his first appearance at the Cannes Film Festival. During a conversation with Film Companion, the actor expressed that he was stunned to witness the response to his presence at the prestigious event. He said, Just before this interview, there was this bunch of girls who went crazy. They were shouting, they werent saying anything! All of a sudden I looked this way and they were like, Tajdar! Tajdar! Tajdar! After that, they went crazy and they started crying.

The actor further noted, I have never seen that reaction ever before. They (fans) came near me and the amount of photos and videos they took was different but they called their mothers, and their mothers were fans! Their fathers were fans!
Superstar Rajinikanth has been granted UAEs golden visa by their Department of Culture and Tourism. The veteran actor took to social media to share this feat and thank the Abu Dhabi government and MA Yusuff Ali, chairman and managing director of Lulu Group for their efforts.

Rajinikanth said in a now-viral video, I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious UAE Golden visa from the Abu Dhabi government. My heartfelt thanks to the Abu Dhabi government, and also to my good friend Mr Yusuff Ali, CMD of Lulu Group, for facilitating this visa and for all the support.

Watch the video here:

During his stay in UAE recently, the actor met MA Yusuff Ali, the chairman and managing director of Lulu Group and its other top executives. The superstar and the businessman shared a ride in a Roll Royce. Fans are speculating about a potential collaboration of the superstar with the Lulu Group owner.

Meanwhile, on the work front, superstar Rajinikanth recently completed the shooting of his upcoming film Vettaiyan. It is written and directed by TJ Gnanavel. Produced under the Lyca Production, the film stars the likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier and Dushara Vijayan in the prominent roles. The music of the film is composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

Earlier this month, Rajinikanth and Amitabh were seen filming a few scenes together. Taking to his Instagram handle, Amitabh Bachchan shared photos of the two together and wrote, Am honoured and privileged to be with the Thala the Great Rajni again .. he hasnt changed at all .. the same simple humble down to earth friend despite his stratospheric greatness !!!

Earlier, Lycra Production house shared the photos on their X handle and wrote, The Titans of Indian Cinema! Superstar @rajinikanth and Shahenshah @SrBachchan grace the sets of Vettaiyan in Mumbai, with their unmatched charisma. In the photos, we can see Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth striking a pose in stylish black formals. They are even hugging and talking something serious. As soon as the photos were shared, fans reacted. Many dropped heart emojis in the comment section.
Actor Ranveer Singh has reportedly irked the makers of Rakshas after he abruptly opted out of the film. While a recent report claimed that Ranveer and director Prasanth Varma decided to part ways on the project due to creative differences, a source close to the makers has now alleged that it was Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani star who walked out of the movie without any explanation.

The source informed Times Now.com/Zoom that it was Ranveer who pursued Prasanth for Rakshas as the director had no plans to commence its shoot anytime soon. Prasanth was apparently planning to start another project in Telugu after Hanu-Man, but he decided to postpone it to work on Rakshas after seeing Ranveers enthusiasm.

Commenting further on the reason behind the actors abrupt exit, the source said, Ranveer flew down to shoot with us. Contrary to reports, he didnt shoot a first-look video with us. He actually shot for the film for three days with us. We packed up happily The next thing we know he sends us a message saying he would not be able to do the film. No explanation was offered as to why. We were stunned. Making it worse was the fact that someone leaked this news to the Mumbai media. We would have dealt with the crisis discreetly quietly. In Mumbai, they like to create controversy even for unprofessional behaviour. We dont work that way.

The source claimed that they were told someone had advised Ranveer against taking up Rakshas. If this is so, shouldnt he have taken the advice earlier and spared us the losses and embarrassment?

When asked about the financial losses due to Ranveers exit, the source said, Actually it is not going to be that much. This is the era of Artificial Intelligence. We plan to incorporate Ranveers three days of shooting into the film, that is, if he decides not to do our film at all. Yes, we are not blocking out discussions. We are leaving the option of his return open. But we want to ask Ranveer a question: Is this a joke? To opt out of a foolproof commitment?
Have you ever thought about what would happen when two of the biggest Marvel stars get together for a special event? On May 23, Hollywood buzzed with excitement as Chris Hemsworth received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. However, the day wasnt just about the honour. It was also filled with laughter, thanks to Robert Downey Jr. When it comes to humour, Downey never disappoints. As the ceremony started, Downey, known for his iconic role as Iron Man, took the stage. He came with a list of roasts from their fellow Marvel co-stars, each one trying to describe Hemsworth in three words.

Downey reportedly started with Jeremy Renners jab, describing Hemsworth as absurdly annoyingly amazing. Next up was Mark Ruffalo, who amusingly called Hemsworth a friend from work. This phrase, familiar to Marvel fans, brought smiles and laughter from the crowd.

Scarlett Johansson joined the fun, calling Hemsworth a sensitive leading lady. Well, finally it was Chris Evans who said the most memorable line and called Hemsworth the second-best Chris, reports People. The friendly banter showed the relationship the Marvel cast shares with each other. Hemsworth and Downey are key figures in the Avengers lineup along with Evans, Johansson, Renner and Ruffalo.

In his speech, after roasting Hemsworth for a good time, Downey also praised him. He called the actor a bit daunting to describe and mentioned his striking looks. Downey also said that beyond Hemsworths appearance, lies a person with genuine wit and a deep soul. Its been my sincere pleasure to know you these many years, Downey said. You keep us Hollywood folks on our toes because youre just a real dude, he added.

The event was not just a celebration of Hemsworths career but also a preview of his upcoming film Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. Downey expressed his excitement for the movie, predicting it to be the film of 2024.

Hemsworths wife Elsa Pataky and their three children, India Rose, Sasha and Tristan, were also present there to support him. Hemsworth, in his own speech, took a moment to thank his wife, who has been by his side for over 13 years. He acknowledged her sacrifices and put her acting career on hold to support him. Nothing that I do, any of these moments, these special occasions and events, none of it is special without you by my side, Hemsworth said.
Bollywood actor Chunky Panday has showcased his impressive versatility over a career spanning decades. From tickling our funnybones in hilarious roles to portraying a menacing antagonist, the 60-year-old has proved his talent in films like Aankhen, Khatron Ke Khiladi, Qayamat: City Under Threat, and Begum Jaan. Interestingly, he has a funny real-life story too. In an old interview, the actor shared how he once bribed Salman Khan to take him to a store in South Africa.

In an interview with Lehren, Chunky recalled the time when he was in South Africa with Salman Khan shooting for a show. He shared that he took Salman Khan to a particular store, and promised to get him free jeans. I told Salman, lets go shopping, I will give you free jeans. So we went shopping at a mall and then gave him free jeans and shoes. And then he got to know that I had taken $50,000 from a shopkeeper to bring Salman there."

Chunky then revealed the backstory. Shopkeeper did pay $50,000, but he paid $50,000 to sponsorship of the show. He was the sponsor, and the deal was to get Salman to the store."

Earlier While promoting Housefull 4, Akshay Kumar too mentioned about the incident on Kapil Sharmas show and called Chunky a smart businessman. Once Salman Khan was doing a show with Chunky Panday in South Africa. After the show was conducted smoothly, Chunky told Salman that he was quite happy. Chunky, who was also the organizer of the show, gave an offer that he would take him shopping. Ill buy your shirts, pants, and jeans."

Chunky Panday is one of the prominent actors of the 90s era in Hindi cinema. He made his acting debut with the 1987 multi-starrer film Aag Hi Aag. The film received warm responses from the audience. Chunky Panday was credited with a successful lineup of films majorly from 1987 to 1994. He shot to fame with the film Tezaab, starring Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit in the lead roles. He tied the wedding knot with Bhavana Pandey in 1998. The couple has two daughters, Ananya, an actress, and Rysa.
By cancelling all Other Backward Classes (OBC) certificates issued by the West Bengal government after 2010, the Calcutta High Court has struck at the darkest instincts of appeasement of not just the Mamata Banerjee government but of Indian polity in general. Remember, the Left was still in power in 2010 in Bengal, when the legislation was created.

Nakedly soliciting Muslim votes by misusing the OBC quota is not unique to West Bengal. Karnataka and many other states have been brazenly doing it.

Taking advantage of the ambiguity in the Constitution in defining Backward Classes and bending the guarantee under Article 15.1 that the State shall not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, caste, or gender, Muslims were brought under the OBC quota by the PV Narasimha Rao government. The Sachar Committee report was used as groundwork for the abomination.

The Rao government was in overcompensation mode since the fall of the Babri masjid, bringing in a slew of constitutional blunders like the Places of Worship Act, the suicidal new Waqf Act, and the OBC lollipop for Muslims.

All this not only robbed the share of the genuinely backward, but also brazenly incentivised conversions to Islam and demographic change, placing Bharats destiny on a doomed path.

Why should Muslims, the 200-million strong second largest religious group in India with a global Ummah of nearly two billion, eat into the share of OBCs?

That is precisely what the Calcutta High Court ruling questions by cancelling all OBC certificates issued during the tenure of the Trinamool Congress administration led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee since 2011. The Bench struck down many parts of the West Bengal Backward Classes (Other than Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) (Reservation of Vacancies in Services and Posts) Act, 2012.

But the most remarkable part of the judgment by the division bench of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Rajasekhar Mantha was the blunt wording.

This courts mind is not free from doubt that the said community has been treated as a commodity for political ends. This is clear from the chain of events that led to the classification of the 77 Classes as OBCs and their inclusion to be treated as a vote bank. Identification of the classes in the said community as OBCs for electoral gains would leave them at the mercy of the concerned political establishment and may defeat and deny other rights, it noted.

The court observed that the decision of the State was an affront to the Muslim community as it was being treated purely as a vote bank.

The National Commission for Backward Castes had discovered that 118 of 179 groups in the Bengal OBC list were Muslims! In the Most Backward Class category, of 81 communities 73 are Muslim and only eight are Hindu. Of the 98 communities in Category B, 45 are Muslim and the rest Hindu.

The states Muslim population in 2011 was 27 per cent. How can one-fourth of the population snatch three-fourths of OBC benefits?

Besides, NCBC chairperson Hansraj Gangaram Ahir found that illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmars Rohingya had made their way into the beneficiaries list. He said state officials initially claimed that these were Hindus who had later converted to Islam. Asked for proof, they slinked away.

Earlier, a Constitution bench of the Supreme Court under CJI YK Sabharwal had stated that the concerned State will have to show in each case the existence of the compelling reasons, namely, backwardness, inadequacy of representation and overall administrative efficiency before making provision for reservationthe State has to collect quantifiable data showing backwardness of the class and inadequacy of representation of that class in public employment in addition to compliance of Article 335.

The Calcutta High Court has gone as far as calling the practice of arbitrarily giving Muslims a slice of the OBC quota a fraud on the Constitution.

The State has reserved to itself, an uncanalised power of picking and choosing at its convenience as to when it would or would not consult the Commission for the purpose of identification of the backward classes for the purpose of reservation, said the judgment.

The Court said that by arrogating to itself the power to ignore the NCBC at its own sweet will whim and fancy, the state is guilty of fraudulent legislative power and consequently a fraud on Constitutional power under Article 16 (4) of the Constitution.

The biggest confirmation of the courts concerns came from Mamata Banerjee herself right after the judgment. She publicly declared that she would not abide by the order.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a scathing attack on Congress, alleging that the grand old party sees Jharkhand as an ATM of corruption.

He also alleged that Congress and Hemant Sorens JMM are competing with each other on corruption in the state.

For Congress, Jharkhand is its vote bank, property, land bank and ATM of corruption Corrupt JMM leaders, including Hemant Soren, are sitting on Congress lap, Shah said while addressing a rally at Jamtara.

Claiming to have secured 310 seats in the first five phases of Lok Sabha polls, the BJP leader urged people to make it cross the 400 mark in order to make the country a developed one under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He claimed that PM Modi not only freed the country from Naxals, including red rebels in Jharkhands Budha Pahad, and did justice to tribals.

The budget for tribals during the Sonia-Manmohan regime was barely Rs 25,000 crore. PM Narendra Modi enhanced it to Rs 1.25 lakh crore in 10 years, he said.

The BJP leader alleged that cattle smuggling was rampant in Jharkhand and promised to make it zero like Assam.

Shah was campaigning for BJP candidate Sita Soren who is contesting from the Dumka Lok Sabha seat.

Later addressing a rally in Deoghar, he attacked the opposition INDIA bloc claiming that it does not have neta, niti or neeyat (leader, policy or intention) and only Narendra Modi is fit to become the countrys PM.

He also alleged that INDIA bloc leaders favoured dynastic politics.

Lalu Prasad wants his son to become CM, Uddhav Thackeray wants his son to be CM, Sharad Pawar wants his daughter to be CM, Mamata Didi wants her nephew to be CM, Stalin wants his son to be CM and Sonia Gandhi wants to make her son Rahul Gandhi as PM, he said.

The BJP will abolish reservations given to Muslims and hand them over to SCs/STs and OBCs, he added.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday drew a parallel between Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand CM Hemant Sorens arrest and accused the Indian Judiciary of being prejudiced against certain communities.

While addressing a session titled Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Haryanas Panchkula Gandhi said: Two sitting Chief Ministers were arrested and the one who went to jail first is still behind bars, essentially because he is from a tribal community.

Mayawati is corrupt but not Naveen Patnaik, Lalu Yadav is corrupt if someone is tribal or Dalit, he is automatically framed, he added.

The ED arrested former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren in January this year concerning a money laundering case related to an alleged land scam. He is currently in judicial custody and was not denied interim relief from the courts.

On the other hand, Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal was arrested by the probe agency in March in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case. He was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court until June 1 for Lok Sabha elections in Delhi.

Meanwhile, the BJP slammed Gandhis remarks and said he was unhappy with the attention Kejriwal had been getting after being given bail.

He blames Hemant Sorens caste for not being granted bail while linking Arvind Kejriwals release with him being a UC. He indeed is unhappy as Kejriwal took all his limelight, but this sets a dangerous divide in the minds of the society which might get influenced by Soross puppets rhetoric, BJP spokesperson Vinusha Reddy wrote on X.

Rahul Gandhi on Systems Bias Against Tirbals

Gandhi also talked about the systems bias against the lower castes and claimed that he knew the system from the inside due to his familys involvement in politics.

In the prime ministers house, when my grandmother and later father were PM and later Dr Manmohan Singh, I used to go, so I know the system from inside. And I am saying the system is aligned against lower castes, in a major way (bhayankar tareeke sey) at every level, he said.

I have been inside the system since I was born on June 19, 1970. I understand the system from the inside. You cannot hide the system from me, he added.

He mentioned that the majority of the countrys population, including Dalits, OBCs, tribal communities, and minorities, are not represented in the countrys narrative and power structure

The former Congress President also highlighted the lack of representation of Dalits, tribal people, and OBCs in the media, claiming that there are no senior anchors, influencers, media owners, or managers from these communities.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
Amid the ongoing controversy over the alleged assault of AAP MP Swati Maliwal at the Chief Ministers residence, the former Delhi Commission of Women (DCW) chief clarified that she wont give up her Rajya Sabha seat now.

In an interview with ANI, Maliwal, who alleged that she was attacked and assaulted by Arvind Kejriwals close aide Bibhav Kumar at CMs house, said she would have resigned as a Rajya Sabha MP if the party had cordially asked her.

She added that she would not resign if any power puts pressure on her to do so.

If they needed my Rajya Sabha seat, they would have asked for it, I would have given my life, the MP seat is such a small thing. If you see my whole career I never showed any desire for any position, Maliwal told ANI

I gave up my engineering job to join these people in 2006 when no one used to know us. Only three people were there and I was one of them. I have been working since then. I have worked on the ground and have run all kinds of operations all these years. I would have resigned readily. I can work without any position. But the way they have beaten me, ab chaahe duniya ki koi bhi shakti lag jaye main resign nahi karungi (I will not resign now at any cost), the AAP leader asserted.

Meanwhile, on the assault case, a Delhi court allowed a five-day custodial interrogation of Kejriwals aide Bibhav Kumar, who was earlier arrested from the CMs residence, and added the police remand was a necessity in the matter.

It is alleged that Kumar, who is Kejriwals assistant, assaulted AAP MP Swati Maliwal at the CMs residence on May 13.

On Tuesday, Kumar had been taken to Mumbai for the discovery of data from his phone which he had allegedly formatted before his arrest.

Police suspect Kumar formatted his phone after transferring its data to some person or device in Mumbai.

Arvind Kejriwals First Reaction to Maliwal Row

Arvind Kejriwal in an interview with PTI said justice be served with a fair investigation into the alleged Maliwal assault case as there are two versions of it.

He also asserted that he has no intention of becoming the next prime minister of the country if the INDIA bloc wins the Lok Sabha polls, saying that he aimed to save the country and democracy from the prevailing dictatorship.

Reacting to his comment, Maliwal said irony died a thousand deaths, adding that Kejriwal has finally said that he wants a free and fair investigation into the matter.

Explore in-depth coverage of Lok Sabha Election 2024 Schedule, Voter Turnout, Upcoming Phase And Much More At News18 Website
The biggest tech companies are busy developing their AI tools, including Microsoft which has a strong lead thanks to its partnership with OpenAI. But the companys CEO Satya Nadella feels that the thinking behind AI needs to change, as it cannot be compared to human intelligence. Nadella even has a new term to define AI, which he calls different intelligence. The Microsoft CEO was quoted saying this in a recent interview, where he was trying to paint the technology in a more realistic picture, as many feel that AI can be a threat to humans in many ways.

AI For Tools, Not Replace You

He even went on to claim that AI will always function as tools and not come close to the basic human intelligence, which has created a big demand for AI-trained workforce. I sort of believe its a tool and it has got intelligence, if you want to give it that moniker, but its not the same intelligence that I have, Nadella was quoted saying by Bloomberg.

The Microsoft chief seems to be doing his best to calm down the hype around AI, which is slowly but gradually making an impact in the industry. The likes of Google and Meta have fired staff to integrate AI into their work systems, but maybe what Nadella is trying to emphasise is that AI and humans can co-exist rather than seeing them compete in the near future.

And he might have a point in this comparison, mostly because, these AI models or LLMs are being trained on human data, and intelligence, so expecting these machines to surpass our level of smartness does feel rather ambitious.

Should We Be Worried?

However, when you hear the likes of Sam Altman from OpenAI and Elon Musk from Tesla, you tend to fear for the future, as both these tech whiz suggest that AI is close to reaching human intelligence, in fact, Musk even stated that by 2029 AI will surpass the intelligence of all the humans, which is a scary thought.

Thats not all, Microsoft showcased its new AI features like Recall and Copilot Plus tech which looks to train on our intelligence and even mimic the emotions and thoughts over time. All these scenarios point to one big need and that is to regulate these AI systems before they get out of hand.
Shares of Nvidia surged over 9% on Thursday, building on a stunning rally as its bumper revenue forecast reinforced investor confidence in the AI-driven boom in chip demand.

The semiconductor bellwethers surge translated to an addition of around $218 billion in market value on the day, according to LSEG data, the second-largest single-day market cap gain in history on Wall Street.

The big stock move came even as expectations were high for Nvidia with its shares trading near record peaks in the run-up to earnings. The results also capped a strong quarter for U.S. technology giants, including Microsoft, with AI emerging as a major growth driver.

Companies are continuing to increase their capital expenditures, particularly Big Tech, to keep up with this revolutionary technology, and Nvidia is by far the biggest beneficiary, said Josh Gilbert, market analyst at eToro.

Nvidia also unveiled a 10-for-one stock split on Wednesday and lifted its quarterly dividend by 150% as demand continues to exceed supply for its high-end chips that power virtually all AI applications, including OpenAIs ChatGPT.

Already the worlds third-most valuable firm, Nvidias market cap gain on Thursday was roughly equivalent to the full value of Adobe. The increase was second only to its own $277 billion jump on the day following its previous earnings report in February.

Nvidias market cap of $2.55 trillion also was closing in on Apple, the second-largest U.S. company by market value at $2.87 trillion. Microsoft is the largest company by market value, at $3.17 trillion.

Nvidias shares closed at $1,037.99, ending above the $1,000 level. Its shares are up nearly 110% so far in 2024 after more than tripling last year.

Nvidias gains on Thursday bucked a broader downswing in the overall stock market. The S&P 500 fell 0.7% on the day, while the other six of the Magnificent Seven tech and growth megacap stocks ended negative.

Thursdays jump also followed a prediction from Taiwanese contract chipmaker TSMC, a major supplier to Nvidia, of 10% annual growth in the global semiconductor industry, excluding memory chips.

TSMCs U.S.-listed shares ended up 0.6%. However, other AI-focused names were mixed after an initial rally following Nvidias results. Arm Holdings and Broadcom both rose about 0.1%, while Advanced Micro Devices and Super Micro Computer both dropped about 3%.

Analysts cheered remarks from Nvidia executives that its new Blackwell AI chips would start shipping in the current quarter and demand for the processors might exceed supply well into next year.

CEO Jensen Huang told Reuters that he expected new AI models that are capable of creating video and engaging in human-like voice interactions to spur more orders for Nvidias processors.

With competition years behind, we believe Nvidia can comfortably defend and maintain its market share, said Ido Caspi, research analyst at Global X, which invests in Nvidia.

The ongoing Hopper (Nvidias current chips) demand should help alleviate investor concerns about customers potentially delaying purchases in anticipation of the Blackwell transition.

Analysts also said the stock split could make Nvidia more appealing to retail investors after a decline in interest this year.

At least 28 of the 58 brokerages raised their price targets on the stock, pushing up the median view to $1,200, according to LSEG data.

Nvidia has a 12-month forward price-to-earnings ratio of about 34, compared with AMDs 38 and Super Micro Computers 26.
At just one year and five months old, young Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah from Ghana has made history by earning a place in the Guinness World Records. Ace-Liam is now recognised as the worlds youngest male artist, having created numerous paintings and even selling nine of them at an exhibition at such a tender age. His achievement has brought immense joy to his local community and garnered global admiration, leaving his mother brimming with pride.

Ace-Liam has captured the attention of both national and international media, drawing praise from the First Lady of the Republic of Ghana. With over 20 paintings to his credit, he recently participated in his first group exhibition, The Soundout Premium Exhibition, held at the Museum of Science and Technology in Ghana. While 10 of his artworks were displayed and put up for sale, nine were actually sold during the exhibition.

At the age of one year and 152 days old, little Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah from Ghana is the worlds youngest artist  Guinness World Records (@GWR) May 22, 2024

His mom, Chantelle, who is also an artist, discovered Ace-Liams passion for painting when he was just six months old. While learning to crawl, I spread out a piece of unstretched canvas on the floor and dropped some paint on it as a way to keep him busy while I worked on a commission painting. He ended up spreading the paint all over the canvas, and in the process, he created his first masterpiece, titled The Crawl, she said.

Chantelle also explained how her son has created a buzz and heightened the conversation about art appreciation and discovering and nurturing talents in kids.

Talking more about Ace-Liams passion for painting, his mother shared that he enjoys the freedom to explore and create without limitations. Ever since he started talking, he would ask to paint, as it has become his favourite activity. Ace-Liams art is more about expression and exploration than conveying specific messages. His abstract paintings are inspired by the world around him; colours, shapes, textures, and his mood. Every painting is an expression of his curiosity and joy in discovering new things, she added.

Meanwhile, as the kid now officially holds the record for the worlds youngest artist (male), his family is exploring opportunities to place him in an environment where his artistic talent could be nurtured through quality education. They are also hoping to seek international scholarships and international opportunities for his artwork.
People consider aeroplanes to be the most convenient means of long journeys. But have you ever wondered how far an aeroplane can fly without stopping? Which aeroplane in the world can travel the longest distance? An engineer has given a very interesting answer on the social media platform Quora.

Animesh Kumar Sinha, who claims to be a railway engineer, said that Google only shows the data of commercial aircraft currently owned by Australias Qantas (Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services). Qantas Airways flew nonstop from New York to Sydney in 19 hours and 16 minutes in October 2019. This flight, operated by a Boeing 797-9 Dreamliner, covered a distance of 16,200 km. There were a total of 49 people on board.

When the plane flies from Perth to London, it covers a long distance of 14,498 kilometres, which is 9009 miles. This flight is completed in about 17 hours and 20 minutes.

It holds the world record, but there are many other world records for non-commercial flights other than these two. The previous world record for the longest non-stop flight is 32 hours and 9 minutes. It is from Perth in Australia to Koggala Lake in Sri Lanka. The distance between the two cities is 5632 kilometres. This aircraft flies at a cruising speed of about 113 miles per hour. This Catalina category aircraft has 2 engines. It is a Royal Australian Air Force aircraft. Its last flight was from Ceylon to Perth on July 17, 1945.

Recently, passengers on an IndiGo flight from Ayodhya to Delhi reportedly had a harrowing experience after the aircraft attempted to land at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) twice but failed to do so due to bad weather. The incident occurred on April 13 on flight 6E2702.

A passenger on board took to microblogging site X to narrate the harrowing experience.

Had a harrowing experience yesterday with @IndiGo6E Flight No. 6E2702 from Ayodhya to Delhi. Scheduled departure time 3:25 p.m. and schedule arrival time 4:30 p.m.Around 4:15 p.m. the pilot announced that theres bad weather at @DelhiAirport. and assured that the plane has 45 Satish Kumar (@CopSatish499) April 14, 2024

Had a harrowing experience yesterday with @IndiGo6E Flight No. 6E2702 from Ayodhya to Delhi. The scheduled departure time is 3:25 p.m. and the scheduled arrival time is 4:30 pm. Around 4:15 pm the pilot announced that there was bad weather at the Delhi Airport and assured that the plane had 45 minutes of Holding Fuel. The pilot attempted landing twice, couldnt due to bad weather and still wasted a lot of time deciding the next course of action, he wrote.
For many years, people have speculated and debated about the possibility of a Third World War. While the horrors of the first two world wars still haunt many, just having a thought about another major conflict is truly scary. In the past, well known astrologers like Nostradamus and Baba Vanga have made predictions about WW3. Now, a modern day astrologer, who claims to have accurately predicted ongoing global tensions, is leaving many terrified after he recently shared the exact date he believes WW3 will begin.

Kushal Kumar, an Indian astrologer, caught attention for his predictions about recent conflicts involving Israel and Hamas, along with Korea, China, Taiwan and Russias tensions with NATO. Though many doubt his predictions, Kumar says he uses Vedic astrology to make his predictions and believes June 10, 18 or 29 could trigger the conflict.

As per his prediction published on Medium, Kumar claimed, WW3 or something comparable may likely break out during 2024. Sea will be the centre of operations mostly while some operations or places lesser in the estimates or reckoning, may grow operative in use. According to the astrologer, Tuesday, 18 June 2024 has the strongest planetary stimulus to trigger WW3 although 10 and 29 June may have a say as well.

2024 was predicted to be major worrisome in relation to war condition in hotspots across world, the month of May in 2024, particularly around 8 May, was indicated carrying highest escalation in such war fronts as Koreas, China-Taiwan, the Middle East involving Israel and others in the Middle East, and Ukraine-Russia, anger of NATO could also find expression. Some indications of related leaders or leaders in such regions having serious health concerns or resigning was also indicated, Kushal Kumar added.

Kumar, who is from Panchkula, Haryana, claimed that such conflicts werent the only concern. He pointed out that the aviation sector and tourism would also be seriously affected. He warned about possible conspiracies and misleading situations.

These claims came after UK officials recently launched a website advising citizens on what to stock in case of war. Additionally, Kumars prediction about leaders comes just days after the tragic helicopter crash that killed Irans President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and others in a mountainous region. Recently, a Singapore Airlines flight also experienced severe turbulence, due to which one British passenger lost his life and nearly 60 others were injured.
Several buzzwords and new workplace trends are emerging at the moment. From quiet quitting to dry promotions, people are addressing their concerns about the struggles surrounding their professional lives. Amid the passing trends, what remained consistent was the demand for a stress-free work environment for employees, while employers emphasised productivity. The latest trend that has come to the forefront is called quiet vacationing.

Going by the book, if an employee wants to take a leave for vacation, they notify the manager. However, quiet vacationing is a recent workplace trend where many employees are bypassing that step and taking time off without alerting their supervisors. As per a CNBC report and a survey performed by The Harris Poll, an American market research and analytics firm, approximately 78% of workers in the United States, particularly millennials and Gen Z, do not use all of their Paid Time Off (PTO) days.

The publication stated that according to Libby Rodney, chief strategy officer at The Harris Poll, younger professionals do not request time off because they feel pressured to meet deadlines and be productive, and they are hesitant about requesting PTO since they do not want to appear as a slacker. Reportedly, while Gen Z employees are more vocal about companies that blame workers for wanting to take time off, millennials prefer to solve the situation on their own discreetly. Libby Rodney said, They will figure out how to get an appropriate work-life balance, but its happening behind the scenes. Its not exactly quiet quitting, but more like quiet vacationing, as quoted by CNBC.

Reportedly, some employees create an illusion to give the impression that they are working. For example, they either arrange for emails to be sent during business hours or outside of them to imply that they are working overtime. Some people also move their computer mouse on the companys messaging platforms on a regular basis to make it appear as if they are working when they are not.

Libby Rodney mentioned that when employees feel compelled to sneak away for breaks, it indicates that their employer lacks a healthy PTO culture. She added that bosses may reduce that tension in a variety of ways, including being more clear about what it looks like to request time off, normalising taking PTO by taking time off themselves, supporting when their employees take time off and mandating a particular amount of time off.
The Tamil Nadu health department recently issued a legal notice to Mohamed Irfan, a popular YouTuber and food vlogger, for violating the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (1994). This action was taken after Irfan revealed the gender of his unborn child on his YouTube channel, which is still not legal in India. The department instructed him to remove the videos in question. Reportedly, Irfan had disclosed the gender of his child following a sex determination test, which he had conducted in Dubai with his wife. He uploaded several now deleted videos showing footage of the test and sharing what the doctor advised them. Additionally, the content creator even posted a video from a gender reveal party attended by family and friends, where the couple announced they were expecting a girl.

Known for his channel Irfans View, which has over 4 million subscribers, the majority of his content revolves around food and family vlogs. Irfan gained popularity after he participated in the cooking reality show Cooku with Comali Season 5. Besides his YouTube channel, which he started in 2009, Irfan also manages two Instagram accounts, Irfans View and Irfans View Official.

Apart from his entertaining videos, he made his acting debut in 2023 alongside superstar Vijay in the film Leo, playing a supporting role. During the time of the shoot, Irfan had shared several photos with the lead star and director Lokesh Kanagaraj. Sharing a picture with Thalapathy, Irfan wrote, Meeting Actor Vijay in Leo shoot for the first time!. One of the Super exciting times of this year. Had some convos with him, I felt super proud when he recognised me. A person who I looked up to have seen my contents is a big achievement for me. I grew up watching his movies, this was special. More about this in todays video sharp at 3 in Irfansview.

Earlier, Mohamed Irfan made headlines in May last year. During that time, Irfans SUV crashed into a 52-year-old woman as she was crossing the road. The woman died on shot and a case was filed against Irfans driver, who was allegedly behind the wheels while speeding the vehicle.

When Irfan initially shared the news about the gender test, his post received mixed reactions. Some expressed happiness and congratulated him, while others criticized him, suggesting that his actions could influence others to misuse similar tests.

In one of the deleted videos on his YouTube channel Irfans View, the vlogger had shared footage of his pregnant wife undergoing a gender test at a hospital in Dubai. He mentioned that when he was born in 1993, his mother knew his gender and it wasnt a big issue back then. However, such tests were later banned because many people were discriminating against female babies.
An Indian student studying at the State University of New York (SUNY) died in a motorcycle accident, the Indian mission in the United States said on Thursday.

The consulate general of India expressed grief on the untimely demise of Belem Atchyuth, who met with a bike accident on Wednesday evening. The Indian mission is currently in contact with Atchyuths family and local authorities to provide the necessary support, including the repatriation of his mortal remains to India.

Saddened to learn about the untimely demise of Shri Belem Atchyuth, a student at SUNY who met with a bike accident and passed away yesterday evening; our deepest condolences to the family; @IndiainNewYork is in touch with the bereaved family & local agencies to extend all India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) May 23, 2024

Saddened to learn about the untimely demise of Shri Belem Atchyuth, a student at SUNY who met with a bike accident and passed away yesterday evening; our deepest condolences to the family; @IndiainNewYork is in touch with the bereaved family & local agencies to extend all assistance including sending the mortal remains back to India, the Indian mission in New York said in a post on X

The news of Atchyuths demise comes in the wake of an increasing number of unfortunate incidents involving Indian students in the United States. More than a dozen Indians have died in 2024 alone.

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The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday ordered Israel to immediately cease its military operations in Rafah in southern Gaza.

This landmark ruling is expected to increase international pressure on Israel, which has been embroiled in a conflict with Hamas since the groups attack on October 7.

The ICJ ruled that Israel must immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah governorate which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.

The court also called for the immediate release of all hostages held by Palestinian militants. The court finds it deeply troubling that many of these hostages remain in captivity and reiterates its call for their immediate and unconditional release, the ICJ stated.

Earlier today, the Israeli military reported retrieving the bodies of three hostages in an overnight operation in the northern Gaza Strips Jabalia. These hostages had been abducted during the October 7 attack.

Open Rafah crossing for humanitarian aid

The courts rulings are legally binding but lack direct enforcement mechanisms. The ICJ also ordered Israel to keep open the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza, which Israel had closed at the beginning of its assault on Rafah.

Open the Rafah crossing for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance, it added.

The ICJs order comes ahead of separate meetings in Paris later on Friday, where the CIA chief and Israeli representatives will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and the foreign ministers of four key Arab states to discuss the Gaza conflict.

The Israeli government has not yet responded to the ruling, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expected to discuss it with ministers soon.

Israel argued before the court that ceasing military activities would enable Hamas extremists to act freely and prevent the Israeli army from rescuing hostages taken during the October 7 attack.

In January, ICJ judges had instructed Israel to prevent death, destruction, and genocide in Gaza, but did not order an end to the military offensive. In March, the court mandated Israel to take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

Arrest warrants against Netanyahu

On Monday, ICJs chief prosecutor Karim Khan requested arrest warrants from ICC judges for Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and three top Hamas leadersYahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyehon charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza and Israel.

Although Israel is not an ICC member, meaning Netanyahu and Gallant do not face immediate prosecution, the threat of arrest could restrict their international travel.

Prime Minister Netanyahu is also under domestic pressure to end the conflict, sparked by Hamas-led militants who killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took about 250 hostages in an attack on Israel. Thousands of Israelis have participated in weekly protests, urging the government to secure the hostages release, fearing time is running out.

Despite the ICJ ruling, the court lacks the power to enforce its decisions, as demonstrated by Russias disregard of a 2022 ICJ order to halt its invasion of Ukraine.

Israel indicated it would likely ignore the ICJs order. No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, the countrys government spokesperson Avi Hyman said on Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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MEXICO CITY: Claudia Sheinbaum, front-runner in Mexicos presidential race, aims to overhaul water governance in the agriculture sector, the top user of the countrys scarce supply, with a potential investment of 20 billion pesos ($1.2 billion) per year.

Julio Berdegue, a member of Sheinbaums campaign team focused on water and the agricultural sector, told Reuters the candidates six-year plan will review existing water concessions, crack down on illegal use, update irrigation technology and revamp national water entity CONAGUA.

He cautioned the plan, details of which have not previously been reported, was still in development and could change.

Sheinbaum has said she plans to reform the National Water Law and develop a strategy to confront pervasive issues in Mexico, which is suffering from crippling drought, widespread water shortages, and heat waves in recent days so severe that howler monkeys are dropping dead from trees.

One of her main focuses will be Mexicos powerful agriculture sector which uses nearly 80% of the countrys water to produce corn, wheat, soy, coffee, beans and avocados.

(Mexico) requires a new general water law, appropriate for a country in climate change, where there is more population, where there is less water, where there are many industries that we want to reach with near-shoring that need water, Berdegue said.

With elections just over a week away, the impacts of climate change are front and center for many Mexicans amid record temperatures. More than 70% of the country is dealing with some level of drought, according to government data.

Water shortages, especially in the metropolitan area surrounding capital Mexico City, have become routine.

Rather than come out entirely of the national budget, Sheinbaums government will look to secure other sources of financing, Berdegue said.

Experts have anticipated that Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City, will make water a main priority, though they predict a sweeping overhaul  especially within the agriculture sector  will face major challenges in confronting long-standing corruption and political polarization.

Its very uncomfortable because no one likes when farmers are protesting  but its the top water-consuming sector, and we have to find ways to figure out solutions to tackle this issue, said Franck Gbaguidi of Eurasia Group.

Juan Cortina, president of the CNA, Mexicos top farm lobby, said Sheinbaums proposed changes would be mostly welcome in the sector. A reform or new law, however, wasnt the most important priority, he said, but, rather, enforcement.

The truth is that we have not invested in the national water system for many decades, Cortina said. This requires more than a change in the law.

Berdegue, a former official at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, stressed Sheinbaums government would not revoke legal concessions. Instead, he said, it would crack down on those who break concession limits or sell water instead of using it themselves.

Berdegue estimated that between 40% and 50% of water that moves through the current system is lost to evaporation.

Sheinbaums plan would aim to recover that loss and ultimately secure more water for agriculture and domestic use.

The plan may include technology to monitor water usage according to concessions and control access once limits had been reached.

About 4.2 million hectares were deforested in Mexico between 2001 and 2021, just over 6% of the countrys total forests, according to official data, mostly to expand agriculture area. Sheinbaum would also seek to stem deforestation with an end-goal of stopping it completely, Berdegue said.

The plan could imply big changes for some producers, a delicate issue to navigate, Berdegue said, but farmers and industry groups would be invited to participate in talks.

($1 = 16.6207 Mexican pesos)

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The director of a biopic on Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Russian spies of attempting to disrupt the production of the film, which is due to be released in the UK in September.

Filmmaker Patryk Vega disclosed to UKs The Telegraph that he and his team were approached by individuals posing as US political advisors and Ukrainian film executives during the making of the movie titled Putin. Using artificial intelligence, the film showcases Putins from the age of 10 to his eventual death. It also shows Putin in some compromising situations, including one where he is depicted wearing diapers.

According to the British newspaper, Russian authorities displayed a keen interest in the films content, with Vega disclosing that he was offered significant sums of money to divulge details about the script. Recounting the encounter with Russian intelligence, Vega said, They took from LinkedIn whole numbers of mobile phones for my crew."

He explained the tactics employed by the supposed intelligence operatives, saying They started messaging these people, for example saying things like, I am an assistant to a congressman from South Dakota, I hear you made this film. My boss would like to pay $100,000 for a screening of this movie, and also for a script.'"

The films use of AI technology has stirred controversy, particularly with its incorporation of a deepfake facial image of Putin onto the body of an actor. Scenes portraying Putin in compromising situations, such as lying on a hospital floor wearing diapers, have raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about the intended message of the production.

The messages arrival coincided with the lead-up to the Russian elections in March, leading Vega to surmise that intelligence officials were attempting to gauge the films anti-Putin sentiments. Describing the calculated timing of the messages, Vega said, They would only message between 9am and 5pm Moscow time. Its obviously some guy with his boss on the side checking every answer before sending it to me."

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A pair of rare 10-rupee banknotes that were recovered as they floated away from a shipwreck on their way from Bombay to London in 1918 are to be auctioned next Wednesday.

Noonans Mayfair auction house in London will offer the notes as part of their World Banknotes sale and are estimated to fetch between GBP 2,000 and 2,600. The two 10-rupee banknotes were recovered from the wreck of the SS Shirala, which was sunk by a German U-boat on July 2, 1918, and bear the date of 25 May 1918 on them.

Whole blocks of these notes, along with lots of provisions ranging from marmalade to ammunition, were on their way to Bombay from London when the boat was sunk by a German U-Boat, said Thomasina Smith, Worldwide Head of Numismatics at Noonans.

Many notes floated to shore, including unsigned 5 and 10 Rupees, and signed 1 Rupees  one of which also features in this auction. Most were recovered and subsequently destroyed by the authorities and new ones were printed to replace them, however a very few examples remained in private hands, she said.

The expert says she has never seen notes like these before and that they only came to light after the Bank of England mentioned the 1918 shipwreck on social media. These are in very good condition  they must have been in the middle of a tightly bound bundle, so didnt make contact with the sea. Its also wonderful that they bear consecutive serial numbers, she said.

Another highlight of the World Banknotes auction next week is a rare Government of India, under British colonial administration at the time, 100-rupee note which is estimated to fetch between GBP 4,400 and 5,000. It is signed and stamped from Calcutta and dated between 1917 and 1930. The reverse has 100 rupees spelt out in different Indian languages, including Hindi and Bengali.

A Reserve Bank of India, Persian Gulf Issue, 5-rupee note featuring the iconic Ashoka emblem and dated 1957-62 is also set to go under the hammer next week for an estimated GBP 2,200-2,800.

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JOHANNESBURG:South Africas government on Friday hailed as ground-breaking a ruling by the World Court that ordered Israel to halt its military assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Judges at the International Court of Justice earlier on Friday backed a South African request to order Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah, a week after Pretoria called for the measure in a case accusing Israel of genocide  an allegation Israel has denied.

This order is ground-breaking as it is the first time that explicit mention is made for Israel to halt its military action in any area of Gaza, Zane Dangor, director-general of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, said in a video clip shared by the department.

While welcoming the courts ruling, President Cyril Ramaphosas office said South Africa remained concerned that the United Nations Security Council had not succeeded in stopping the human suffering in Gaza.

This case is focused on the ordinary Palestinians in Gaza who are now facing their seventh month of suffering through collective punishment for something for which they have no individual responsibility, he said in a statement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office rejected South Africas allegations on Friday, calling them false and outrageous.

Israel has repeatedly dismissed the cases accusations of genocide as baseless, arguing in court that its operations in Gaza are self-defence and targeted at Hamas militants who attacked Israel on Oct. 7.

Dangor said South Africa would approach the UN Security Council with the issue of the court ordering Israel to allow access to investigators.

(Writing by Anait Miridzhanian and Bhargav Acharya; Editing by Alexander Winning and Sharon Singleton)

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Three Christian missionaries from Missions in Haiti were shot and killed in an ambush by a gang in Haiti, the Oklahoma-based group said on Friday.

The missionaries were taking shelter in a house when gang members began shooting at the residence at about 9 p.m. CDT (0200 GMT) Thursday, the group said in two Facebook posts.

Months of gang violence in Haiti have forced the government into retreat, and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned the country is close to becoming a failed state.

Haitis main international airport in Port-au-Prince reopened this week, nearly three months after it shut due to deadly gang-related violence. But gangs still control much of the capital and Haitis main seaport remains closed.

A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said the Biden administration was aware of reports of the deaths of U.S. citizens and offered condolences.

Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief, the spokesperson said.

Missouri State Representative Ben Baker said his daughter Natalie Lloyd and son-in-law Davy Lloyd were killed while working as full-time missionaries. Davy Lloyd was the son of the organizations founders, David and Alicia Lloyd, who started it in 2000.

The identity of the third person killed has not been released.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain, Baker said on Facebook.

Missions in Haiti said the couple was leaving a church when they were ambushed by three trucks full of gang members. They took Davy Lloyd to a house, tied him up and beat him, before taking the groups trucks and some items and left, it said.

Another gang came after to see what was going on and if they could help, so they say, the organization said. No one understood what they were doing, not sure what took place but one was shot and killed and now this gang went into full attack mode.

The couple and another individual identified as Jude called a leader of the organization on a satellite phone and said that their lives were in danger.

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WASHINGTON: Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin was traveling to a campaign rally aboard Donald Trumps private jet in early April when he decided to broach the delicate issue of early voting.

As the Boeing 757 flew from Florida to Green Bay, Wisconsin, Johnson pressed the Republican candidate to use his speech to urge his supporters to cast their votes ahead of Election Day.

Early voting often draws a torrent of vitriol from Trump, who falsely claims it is vulnerable to fraud and cost him the 2020 election.

But Johnson is one of a number of senior Republicans  many of them in key swing states, like Wisconsin  who are worried that Trumps demonizing of early voting could torpedo his hopes of winning back the White House on Nov. 5.

I encouraged the president to encourage Wisconsin Republicans to bank their votes, said Johnson, adding he didnt encounter any resistance from Trump. I would recommend he get on board.

We have to do everything we can to fully utilize the rules as they are written. Democrats certainly have, said the 69-year-old senator, himself a recent convert to early voting.

But not only did Trump fail to extol the importance of early voting at the April 2 rally, he told the crowd of more than 3,000 supporters that his goal was ultimately to limit voting to Election Day only, a message greeted with huge cheers.

And when Johnson  in his third Senate term  took to the convention centers stage to urge Republicans to vote early, he was met with tepid applause from a just few people.

Supporters of early voting say it increases turnout and avoids the problems of people being unable to vote on Election Day because of bad weather, logistical issues at voting stations or personal reasons. Voters rights groups say there is no data showing early voting can lead to fraudulent ballots being cast.

At the last presidential election in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, early voting surged to new highs. And in the 2022 midterm elections, half of U.S. voters cast their vote before Election Day, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Novembers election will be a closely fought contest between Trump and President Joe Biden, opinion polls suggest. The Democratic incumbent defeated Trump in Wisconsin by just 20,000 votes in 2020 and the state is again a major prize for both parties.

Not pursuing an early voting strategy in 2024 would be political suicide, said Brian Schimming, the chairman of the Wisconsin Republican Party.

Reuters spoke to Republican Party leaders in four of the likely seven battleground states: Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and North Carolina. They told Reuters they are making a big push to encourage Republicans not to wait until Election Day to cast their ballots.

The newly installed leaders of the Republican National Committee (RNC)  Michael Whatley and Trumps daughter-in-law, Lara Trump  insist the former president is on board with early voting.

We urge all Republicans to go vote early, by mail, on Election Day, or whichever method works best for them, Claire Zunk, an RNC spokesperson, said in a statement to Reuters.

But, as Johnsons experience underscores, its not clear that voters are willing to embrace the new message after Trumps repeated and continuing claims of fraud.

Suzanne Sliva, a 60-year-old entrepreneur from Lucas, Texas, said she views early voting with suspicion and believes it should be reserved only for exceptional circumstances.

Voting is one day, she said, while waiting for Trump to speak at a National Rifle Association (NRA) event in Dallas, Texas last weekend. Everything gets counted in one day, and we know before midnight who the winner is.

Michael McDonald, a political science professor at the University of Florida who has been analyzing elections data for over 30 years, said it would take a lot of messaging to change some voters minds, most importantly from Trump himself.

MIXED MESSAGING

Trumps position, however, remains unclear. At a campaign rally in New Jersey on May 11, the candidate, for the first time in a speech this year, promoted early voting for the Nov. 5 general election: Get an absentee or mail-in ballot, vote early or vote on Election Day, he told supporters.

Yet in the same speech he said mail-in voting is largely corrupt.

And, at a rally on April 13, Trump likened early voting to stealing the vote. In March, he called mail-in voting a hoax.

In fact, he has called mail-in voting corrupt or a hoax at least 11 times in speeches this year alone, according to a Reuters analysis of his prepared remarks.

But away from the teleprompter, Trump has posted twice on Truth Social since mid-April that early voting is important.

That is really not helpful, said Oscar Brock, an RNC committee member from Tennessee and a supporter of early voting, referring to Trumps mixed messaging.

Voting rights groups accuse the RNC of double dealing in publicly backing early voting. They note the RNC, Republican lawmakers in battleground states and conservative groups continue to pass laws and file lawsuits that restrict access to early voting.

The activists say these efforts disproportionately affect minority groups, who tend to vote for the Democratic Party in large numbers. Republicans deny the accusation, saying they are seeking to protect the integrity of the voting process.

Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said the former president had always advocated for free and fair elections, where every legal vote is counted and any instance of fraud is rooted out.

Democrats have proven they are willing to change voting rules during the middle of a pandemic that made our elections more susceptible to fraud, Cheung said.

In the 2020 presidential election, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Democratic election officials in many states expanded early voting by adding ballot drop box locations, extending voting deadlines, and increasing the use of mail-in voting.

The Democratic National Committee is investing tens of millions dollars to promote early and mail-in voting this year, said Alex Floyd, the DNCs rapid response director.

In 2020, 82% of Biden supporters voted early, compared to 62% of Trumps, according to the Pew Research Center, an independent Washington-based think tank. Nearly twice as many Biden voters sent ballots by mail compared to Trump supporters, according to Pew.

SWING STATES

Despite the mixed messaging from Trump, the chairmen of state Republican parties in the four swing states told Reuters they are pressing ahead with an early voting push.

Josh McKoon, chairman of the Republican Party in Georgia, said the party on April 29 sent a video promoting early voting to 70,000 registered Republicans through social media and email.

In North Carolina, Republican chair Jason Simmons said the party is holding training sessions with county and district chairs on how to message voters on the importance of early voting, while in Michigan, Republican Party chair Pete Hoekstra is pushing early voting every time he speaks to grassroots activists across the state.

In Wisconsin, Schimming, the party chair, said top Republican officials in the state had released videos of themselves voting early in this years primaries to reinforce their message of casting ballots before Election Day.

And in Pennsylvania, the Republican State Leadership Committee, together with two other Republican groups, has launched a $10 million initiative to promote mail-in voting in the state, a push first reported by Reuters.

Turning Point Action, a conservative group once skeptical of early voting, says it plans to spend over $100 million in Wisconsin, Arizona and Michigan to persuade Republicans who rarely vote to cast ballots.

Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for TPA, said they hoped a majority of those votes will be cast before Election Day.

LITIGATION

Celina Stewart, chief counsel for the League of Women Voters, a non-partisan voting rights group, said early voting makes the election process safer because it catches errors. Some 47 states use some form of early voting, she added.

But in five swing states this year  Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and North Carolina  Republican lawmakers have either passed bills or introduced legislation aimed at restricting access to early voting 28 times, according to a Reuters analysis of legislation in state houses.

The bills sought multiple ways to restrict access to early voting. They included three provisions to eliminate early in-person voting altogether, 15 to make it easier to prevent people from voting early, and seven to reduce early voting locations, according to Reuters tally.

The RNC has also filed or supports 29 lawsuits aimed at restricting early voting, 17 of which concern voting by mail, according to Democracy Docket, a progressive voting rights group that tracks election-related litigation.

Republicans are trying to turn out their voters and there is simultaneously a push to suppress the vote and restrict access to voting, said Wendy Weiser, vice president for democracy at the nonpartisan Brennan Center for Justice at New York University.

Research shows restricting access to early voting, disproportionately reduces access and participation by voters of color, Weiser said, because they often work multiple jobs, or lack access to transport, making their access to polling locations on Election Day more difficult.

Zunk, the RNC spokesperson, did not respond directly to Reuters questions about the lawsuits or legislative efforts but said the party was dedicated to securing the vote across the country so all voters can have full confidence in a fair election.

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Pope Francis has attributed a second miracle to an Italian teenager who in his short life used his computer skills to spread the Catholic faith, clearing the way for him to become the first saint of the millennial generation.

Carlo Acutis, who died of leukaemia in 2006 aged 15, was informally known as Gods influencer. Born in London, he grew up in Milan where he took care of his parish website and later of a Vatican-based academy.

Francis took the decision during a meeting with the head of the Vaticans saint-making department, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, a statement said on Thursday.

Acutis was beatified in 2020 after one miracle was attributed to him. The attribution of a second miracle means he can now be elevated to sainthood, but the Vatican did not say when this would happen.

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that only God performs miracles, but that saints who are believed to be with God in heaven intercede on behalf of people who pray to them. A miracle is usually the medically inexplicable healing of a person.

Due to his important role in evangelization through the internet, Acutis was named as a patron of last years World Youth Day in Lisbon, organisers of the event said.

(With agency inputs)

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WASHINGTON: U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is expected to meet with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun, at a major defense conference in Singapore next week, the Pentagon announced Friday.

It will be the first meeting between the two defense leaders following a phone call in April. It comes as the U.S. and China have gradually worked to warm relations, which had been largely frozen since a controversial visit by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022 resulted in China temporarily stopping most military-to-military communications.

Austin and Dong, Chinas minister of national defense, are expected to meet during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore next week, an annual meeting of defense ministers and government officials from more than 50 countries.

The meeting also comes, however, as China has engaged in aggressive military drills around Taiwan, resulting in Taiwan scrambling jets and putting missile, naval and land units on alert Thursday.

China launched the exercises after the islands new president, Lai Ching-te, was inaugurated and delivered a speech asking Beijing to cease its intimidation against the island but face the reality of its existence. Beijing rejected his remarks as advocating for separatism and launched the military drills.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and vows to seize it by force if necessary to achieve unification. The U.S. is obligated under federal law to ensure the island can defend itself.

In the wake of those exercises, the U.S. has cautioned China not to use Taiwans political transition as a pretext or excuse for provocative or coercive measures, a defense official said. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that had not been made public.

The two governments began to engage each other more after President Biden hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping in November in California and stressed the need to keep communications open.

Dong is a former naval commander who was appointed in late December after his predecessor, Li Shangfu, was removed from office. Dong spoke with Austin by phone in April over issues including the war in Ukraine, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, Taiwan and North Korea.

Austin last met a Chinese defense minister in November 2022, when he and Wei Fenghe, then Chinas defense minister, were in Cambodia for a regional defense minister meeting.

No U.S. defense secretary has visited China since Jim Mattis visited in 2018.

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Former US President Donald Trump addressed a historic rally on Thursday in the Democratic party stronghold Bronx neighbourhood in New York City, where he claimed that immigrants from Africa, the Middle East, and elsewhere were building an army to attack Americans from within.

Almost everyone is a male and they look like fighting age. I think theyre building an army, the Republican presidential candidate said to a few thousand supporters who gathered to hear him in the South Bronxs Crotona Park. They want to get us from within. We are not going to let these people come in and take our city away from us and take our country away, Trump said, vowing to carry out the largest criminal deportation operation in our countrys history if re-elected to the White House.

Trump did something tonight that no other Republican candidate has done in 40 yearscampaign in the Bronx.It was bold. It was creative. It was also a giant welcome sign to Hispanics and blacks who are considering voting Republican for the first time. And it will work. pic.twitter.com/H2wwcghwbj  Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) May 24, 2024

Trump also sought to tie record levels of migrants caught crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally with the economic plight of Black and Hispanic voters, arguing, without evidence, that migrants were taking their jobs. Trump is locked in a tight race with Democratic President Joe Biden ahead of the Nov. 5 election. The Bronx rally was part of his effort to exploit Bidens weakening support among Hispanic and Black voters.

Roughly 55% of Bronx County residents are Hispanic and about one-third are Black, and the crowd on Thursday was more racially mixed than his usual rallies, which are predominantly white. Trumps campaign had a permit for up to 3,500 people to attend the rally, the New York City Parks Department said. Recent polls suggest that Trump is gaining ground with Blacks and Hispanics, who were critical to Bidens win in 2020.

Trump strategists see a chance to grab enough of their votes to make the difference in swing states in November. Its historic that hes here, said Steven Suarez, 46, who is Puerto Rican, a reference to Trump being the first Republican presidential candidate to make a stop in the Bronx since Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. He could have gone anywhere in New York City. He could have gone to Manhattan. He chose to come here, he was quoted as saying by Reuters.

(With agency inputs)

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Earlier this year, political consultant Steve Kramer admitted he was behind robocalls impersonating President Biden and said that if authorities want to come after him, they should "bring it." They have now brought it. Kramer has been fined $6 million by the Federal Communications Commission and indicted on 26 counts in New Hampshire, NBC News reports. In the calls two days before the New Hampshire primary, the AI-generated Biden voice told Democratic voters they should stay home and save their vote for the November election.

A first-of-its-kind fine . The FCC said the proposed fine is its first involving generative AI technology, the AP reports. The agency said Kramer violated a federal caller ID law with the "scam calls he set up to defraud voters." Weeks after the New Hampshire calls, the FCC outlawed robocalls with AI-generated voices.

. The FCC said the proposed fine is its first involving generative AI technology, the AP reports. The agency said Kramer violated a federal caller ID law with the "scam calls he set up to defraud voters." Weeks after the New Hampshire calls, the FCC outlawed robocalls with AI-generated voices. Another fine. Lingo Telecom, the Texas company accused of transmitting the calls, faces a $2 million fine but it strongly denies that it had any role in producing them or violated any federal regulations. The FCC says settlement or negotiation is possible with both fines.
Kristi Noem was already banned from one-fifth of the state she governs; now she's banned from even more of it. Indigenous groups in South Dakota have now barred the far-right governor from any and all tribal lands in the state, the Guardian reports. Nine Native American tribes reside in South Dakota, and the last one to vote to prohibit Noem from entering its reservation was the Flandreau Santee Sioux tribe, which did so Tuesday, CNN reports. During a meeting with Noem's office, the tribe's president "requested that the Governor refrain from making future blanket statements that offend the tribes within the boundaries of the State of South Dakota, some of which depend on state services for the needs of their people," a statement says.
Rapper Sean Kingston was arrested in California on fraud charges Thursday, several hours after a SWAT team raided his rented South Florida mansion and carted away a van load of items, the AP reports. The Broward County Sheriff's Office said Kingston was arrested without incident on a Florida warrant in the area of Fort Irwin, an Army base in the desert about 150 miles northeast of Los Angeles. Earlier in the day, Broward detectives arrested his 61-year-old mother, Janice Turner, during the raid of the rapper's 14,000-square foot home in Southwest Ranches, a well-off Fort Lauderdale suburb that is home to many celebrities and professional athletes. Kingston is a Jamaican-American rapper best known for his 2007 No. 1 single "Beautiful Girls"; another hit, "Take You There"; and his collaboration with Justin Bieber on the song "Eenie Meenie."
A woman who says she was sexually assaulted by Sean Combs in four "terrifying" encounters has become the latest person to file a lawsuit against the rapper, bringing the total to seven in six months. In a lawsuit filed Thursday, April Lampros said she was a student at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology in 1994 when she met Combs, who promised to mentor her, Fox News reports. The friendship, however, "manifested into an aggressive, coercive, and abusive relationship based on sex," the lawsuit states.

Lampros said the first sexual assault happened in 1995, after Combs pressured her to drink alcohol after they met up at a New York City bar, NBC News reports. She said Combs took her to a hotel, where he forced himself on her after she said she was feeling unwell. She said she passed out as he was raping her.
More than 100 people are believed to have been killed Friday in a landslide in a remote part of Papua New Guinea, Australian Broadcasting Corp. reported, per the AP . The landslide reportedly hit Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, about 370 miles northwest of the South Pacific island nation's capital of Port Moresby, at roughly 3am local time, ABC reported. Residents say current estimates of the death toll are above 100, although authorities have not confirmed this figure. Villagers said the number of people killed could be much higher.

Social media videos show locals pulling out buried bodies. "It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours and the entire village has gone down," the president of a local association for women in business told ABC. "From what I can presume, it's about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground." The Papua New Guinea government and police did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Friday. Papua New Guinea is a diverse, developing nation of mostly subsistence farmers with 800 languages. There are few roads outside the larger cities. With 10 million people, it is also the most populous South Pacific nation after Australia, which is home to 27 million.

(More Papua New Guinea stories.)
The bodies of three more hostages killed on Oct 7. were recovered overnight from Gaza, Israel's military said Friday. The Israel Defense Forces said the bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez Radoux were found and their families were notified, the AP reports. The military said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection near the border and their bodies were taken to Gaza. Four hostages whose bodies were recovered last week were killed in the same area, according to the IDF. The military said the operation was carried out based on "precise intelligence" obtained recently.

Radoux, a 30-year-old Mexican-French national, was the boyfriend of Shani Louk, whose body was recovered last week, reports the Times of Israel. The couple and Yablonka, 42, among others, fled to Mefalsim after Hamas attacked the Supernova music festival. Nisenbaum, 59, had been on his way to collect his granddaughter from his son-in-law, a military officer who survived the attack. The Times reports that there had been no information on the status of the three and until recently, they had been thought to be alive. Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more.

(More Israel-Hamas war stories.)
Vladimir Putin insists that Russia is ready to keep fighting in Ukraine, but he's reportedly also amenable to "freeze the war" therewith one big condition. Russian sources tell Reuters that their leader is prepared to negotiate a ceasefire, but one recognizing that territory currently under Russian control would stay that way. Those sources say Putin thinks he can sell such a concession as a win to the Russian people, and that he'd rather avoid another national mobilization, as the last one he ordered caused his popularity to plummet. Freezing the conflict now along battlefield lines would leave Russia with "substantial chunks of four Ukrainian regions" in its possession, or about 18% of Ukraine. Asked for comment, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia was open to dialogue on the matter and didn't want "eternal war." More:



Ukraine's take: Kyiv likely won't agree to any deal in which Russia gets to keep territory it has already seized, notes the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine has its own peace plan, including a summit in Switzerland next month"a real diplomatic track that has every chance of contributing to a just peace," National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Lytvynenko said on Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently said Ukraine will take back all of its territory seized by Russia, including Crimea, and in 2022, he signed a decree saying talks with Putin were "impossible," per Reuters.
Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle joked Thursday that his company is "healing so many people" who require wheelchairs at boarding, yet walk off the plane just fine. "There is massive, rampant abuse of special services. There are people using wheelchair assistance who don't need it at all," Biffle told an audience of aviation professionals at a speaking engagement in New York, where he urged a crackdown on the abuse, per CNBC . "You park in a handicapped space, they will tow your car and fine you," he tells the outlet. "There should be the same penalty for abusing these services."

A 1986 law requires airlines to provide wheelchairs to passengers with disabilities. The law also gives these passengers the right to priority boarding. Travelers have taken advantage of this. The idea of requesting a wheelchair to get priority boarding when no disability is present was promoted as a TikTok travel hack in 2022, per Business Insider, prompting a rebuke from the then-CEO of London's Heathrow Airport. "People are using the wheelchair support to try to get fast-tracked through the airport," John Holland-Kaye told LBC. "That is absolutely the wrong thing to be doing."

Biffle noted that on some Frontier flights, 20 passengers might request wheelchairs to board the plane but only three use them at their destination. The New York Post described that exact scenario on a Southwest Airlines flight last summer. At the time, Southwest said that "since many disabilities aren't visible, we're unable to question the validity of preboarding requests." Biffle said each unnecessary request for a wheelchair costs Frontier $30 to $35 and delays service for people who truly need assistance. "Everyone should be entitled to it who needs it," he said. (More Frontier Airlines stories.)
Four down, one to go. Police in Spain say they have recovered one of five Francis Bacon portraits of Jose Capelo that were stolen from the banker's Madrid home in 2015. Another three were recovered in 2015. Police said the 1989 painting Study for Portrait of Jose Capelo was recovered in Madrid after two people suspected of involvement in the theft were arrested, the BBC reports. Another painting is still missing. The painting is worth an estimated $5.4 million; the combined value of the five paintings is around $27 million.

Police said a total of 16 people have been arrested in connection with the case, including the crime's mastermind and the burglars who broke into Moreno's home. In a news release, police said they are working to track down the fifth painting, focusing on Spanish citizens with links to Eastern European criminal gangs. Reuters describes the banker as a "friend and former lover" of Bacon, who died in Madrid in 1992 at age 82.

The Dublin-born painter is one of the "most highly regarded and sought-after artists of the 20th century," the Guardian reports. In 2013, his 1969 triptych Three Studies of Lucian Freud sold for a then-record $142.5 million. The Guardian notes that beyond his art, Bacon was known for his wild lifestyle, and his toast, "Champagne for my real friends, real pain for my sham friends." (More Francis Bacon stories.)
Former nurse Lucy Letby, one of very few women in British history to be sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole, has been denied permission to appeal her convictions. After a 10-month trial, the 34-year-old was found guilty last year of murdering seven babies and trying to kill six more while working in the neonatal unit of a hospital in northern England. She filed to appeal the convictions soon after the trial ended. On Friday, a panel of three of the most senior judges in England said permission to appeal had been refused, bringing an end to the appeal process, the Telegraph reports.

"This court, having heard her application, has decided to refuse leave to appeal on all grounds and refused all associated applications," said Dame Victoria Sharp. "A full judgment will be handed down in due course." Letby is due to be retried next month on one attempted murder charge involving a victim known as Child K, the BBC reports. Because of the retrial, the British media is not being allowed to report the full details of the judges' decision and the reasons for Letby's appeal.

A New Yorker story that raised doubts about some of the evidence that led to Letby's conviction is also blocked by the reporting restrictions. The story is geo-blocked for British readers of the New Yorker website and British news outlets would risk being found in contempt of court if they described its contents, the New York Times reports. At her sentencing last August, Justice James Goss gave Letby the harshest sentence possible, 14 whole-life sentences, for what he described as "a cruel, calculated, and cynical campaign of child murder involving the smallest and most vulnerable of children." (More infanticide stories.)
Nikki Haley announced on Wednesday that, despite their differences, she'd be voting for Donald Trump in November. It's not entirely clear if the two have completely buried the hatchet, but the former president cracked that door open a little more after a rally on Thursday afternoon in the Bronx, suggesting Haley could play a role in his next administration if he's reelected. "I think she's gonna be on our team because we have a lot of the same ideas, the same thoughts," Trump told News 12 . "I appreciated what she said."

He added that the back-and-forth between his camp and Haley's camp got "pretty nasty" when she was still in the race, but that Haley is a "very capable person, and I'm sure she's gonna be on our team in some form, absolutely." The New York Times details some of that nastiness, including Trump calling Haley "birdbrain" and Haley calling him "unhinged." It's not clear if this means Trump is reassessing whether Haley could serve as his running mate. Earlier this month, he posted on his Truth Social platform that the former South Carolina governor was "not under consideration" for the VP slot, though he did send her well wishes, per CBS News.

When asked specifically on Thursday about the vice president position, Trump stayed vague, firing off a bunch of names that might fit the bill. "You could take people like Ben Carson, you could take people like Marco Rubio, JD Vance," Trump said. "Elise [Stefanik] is doing a fantastic job. ... We have many people that would do a really fantastic job." He noted he would decide by "sometime during the convention," apparently referring to the RNC gathering in July. (He's reportedly currently keen on Sen. Tom Cotton.)
Semaglutide , the medication found in such brands as Ozempic and Wegovy, has become the drug of choice lately for weight loss. A new study, however, suggests it can also bring other significant benefits to users, including slashing the risk of serious kidney complications, heart problems, and even death in patients with chronic kidney disease (which has no cure) and Type 2 diabetes, reports the New York Times . In research published Friday in the New England Journal of Medicine and also presented at a gathering of the European Renal Association in Stockholm, half of more than 3,500 subjects from nearly 30 countries with kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes were given a weekly 1mg semaglutide injection, while the other half got a placebo.

The researchers followed up with the subjects after an average of 3.4 years and found that the patients who'd taken the semaglutide were 24% less likely than the placebo patients to have experienced a major event caused by kidney disease, such as needing dialysis or a transplant. The semaglutide patients also saw slowed-down rates of kidney deterioration and were also less likely to suffer not only cardiovascular-related fatalities, but fatalities overall. Although scientists aren't sure how the semaglutide helps, they speculate that it may cut down on inflammation, which can make kidney disease worse. The study proved so heartening that Novo Nordisk, the Ozempic/Wegovy maker funding the research, ended the clinical trial early, notes the Times.

Caveats: Most of the study's participants were white men, while kidney disease disproportionately affects Black and Indigenous patients. More than 1 in 7 Americans have chronic kidney disease. CNN notes 1 in 3 people with diabetes also have kidney disease, per the CDC. Heart issues, meanwhile, enter the picture because when one's kidneys don't function well, waste and fluid can increase in the blood, worsening high blood pressure and upping the risk of stroke and heart disease, one doctor tells the Times.

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High blood sugar in diabetics can also strain the heart. Novo Nordisk now wants to ask the FDA to add a note on Ozempic labels that indicates the drug can be used to possibly slow the advancement of chronic kidney disease or cut down on diabetes complications. "Those of us who really care about kidney patients spent our whole careers wanting something better," the University of Washington's Dr. Katherine Tuttle, a study co-author, tells the Times. "This is as good as it gets." (More Ozempic stories.)
On the second anniversary of the Uvalde school shooting, new lawsuits were filed by victims' families against three corporations the filing says are responsible for essentially grooming "socially vulnerable" young men to carry out their violent video game fantasies against real people. The group sued Daniel Defense, maker of high-end rifles; Activision, maker of the shooter game Call of Duty, and Meta Platforms, parent of Facebook and Instagram, the Washington Post reports. A teenage attacker killed 19 students and two teachers at Texas' Robb Elementary School.

The suit likens the companies' marketing strategy to an infamous cigarette ad campaign. "Over the last 15 years, two of America's largest technology companiesDefendants Activision and Metahave partnered with the firearms industry in a scheme that makes the Joe Camel campaign look laughably harmless, even quaint," it says. The suits were announced by Josh Koskoff, an attorney for the families who won a $73 million settlement for families of victims of the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting in Connecticut in 2022.

"There is a direct line between the conduct of these companies and the Uvalde shooting," said Koskoff on Friday, per the AP. "This three-headed monster knowingly exposed him to the weapon, conditioned him to see it as a tool to solve his problems and trained him to use it." The suit against Daniel Defense was filed in Uvalde District Court. Another naming Activision and Meta was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court. (The families just settled a suit against the City of Uvalde and filed another one against state police officers and local officials.)
The judge overseeing Hunter Biden's federal firearms charges trial agreed Friday to block prosecutors from telling jurors about certain unflattering episodes from his personal life, but left the door open to allowing them in if the president's son testifies. It's unclear whether the defendant would take the stand during the trial that could last up to two weeks during his father's reelection campaign and likely include sharp disagreements over evidence, the AP reports. President Biden's son is charged with lying about his drug use in October 2018 on a form to buy a gun that he kept for about 11 days in Delaware.

The trial is to begin June 3 and could last up to two weeks. Hunter Biden has acknowledged an addiction to crack cocaine during that period, but his lawyers have said he didn't break the law and the case is politically motivated. He didn't speak to reporters as he accompanied his lawyers to and from the Wilmington courthouse for a hearing on Friday. Prosecutors won a victory on a key point as US District Judge Maryellen Noreika found that they wouldn't have to prove that he specifically used drugs on the day of the purchase. She agreed to a defense push to keep out other details about his past, including a child-support case in Arkansas and his dismissal from the Navy after a positive drug test.

If he takes the stand, however, "there's a number of issues that may become more contentious," Noreika said. She also agreed to consider defense questions about the contents of a laptop that he allegedly dropped off at a Delaware repair shop. Biden's attorneys want to raise questions about the authenticity of the laptop's data at trial, per the AP. Prosecutors say that there's no evidence it has been compromised and that a drawn-out fight would be a waste of time. The laptop has been the source of dispute for years after Republicans accessed and disseminated personal data from it. Noreika said she will consider objections to specific pieces of data as the trial unfolds.

(More Hunter Biden stories.)
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Mohammed Darwish

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) of the Kingdom of Bahrain issued a statement yesterday addressing the situation of Sudanese nationals stranded within the country.

This response follows numerous social media reports and videos alleging deception by certain groups. Denying any connection to scams, the NPRA has affirmed Bahrains welcoming stance towards all visitors and residents.

However, the department has acknowledged a delay in visa application processing as the primary cause of the current issue. Last Thursday, reports emerged regarding a group of Sudanese migrants who travelled from Port Sudan only to discover the absence of the promised visas and job opportunities.

These individuals, reportedly lured by the prospect of starting anew in Bahrain, claimed to have paid significant fees to agents in Sudan. Upon their arrival in Manama, they were confronted with a harsh reality: neither visas nor employment awaited them.

Standard procedures

The NPRA has indicated that the affected individuals adhered to the standard procedures for visa applications through officially sanctioned offices. The department has conceded that the present situation stems from an unexpected backlog in processing these applications.

Initiatives are in progress as the NPRA works in conjunction with the Sudanese Embassy in Bahrain to accelerate the visa application procedure.

Meanwhile, the Sudanese community in Bahrain has displayed exceptional unity, providing temporary accommodation and aid to the migrants. They are actively seeking a solution, engaging with various organisations for support.

Complications

The critical nature of the issue has led to appeals for action from the Sudanese authorities to avert further complications. The Sudanese community in Bahrain, already encumbered by the ongoing strife and crises in their native land, now confronts additional hurdles in addressing these residency matters.

Further developments are expected as the situation continues to unfold. The NPRA is striving to secure a timely resolution to this complex issue with the cooperation of relevant agencies.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Still Nature exhibition was inaugurated by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Bin Dainah, Minister of Oil and Environment and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs.

The exhibition has emerged as a significant cultural event in the Kingdom. Organised by the Bahrain Contemporary Art Association, the exhibition showcases the remarkable talent and artistic vision of 17 young Bahraini artists.

Still Nature brings together a diverse collection of artistic media and techniques, including paintings, drawings, and mixed media works. Each piece stands out as a unique perspective, reflecting the individual styles of the participating artists and their interpretations of Bahrains natural environment.

The collection not only highlights the beauty of the Kingdoms landscapes but also conveys the essence of Bahraini identity through creative expression. The Bahrain Contemporary Art Association, established in Manama 54 years ago, is one of the Kingdoms oldest artistic institutions.

Its membership spans various styles and backgrounds, embodying a spirit of artistic collaboration and growth. The associations roots hark back to an artistic gathering initiated by Karim Al-Arayedh in his studio, with founding members such as Rashid Al-Arifi and Hussein Al-Sunni.

As interest grew, other art enthusiasts, including Ahmed Nashaba, Ishaq Khunji, and Abdul Karim Al-Bosta, joined the initiative. The associations first exhibition took place in 1971.

In his opening address, Bin Dainah praised the young artists for their skill in capturing the essence of Bahrains diverse natural landscapes. He highlighted the high calibre of the artworks, noting their evocative portrayal of the Kingdoms natural beauty.

Wrapping up his remarks, the Minister extended his best wishes to the organisers and participants of the Still Nature exhibition, expressing his hope that this event will spark further artistic efforts and contribute to the ongoing celebration of Bahrains rich cultural heritage.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB), the leading provider of Islamic digital banking services in the Kingdom of Bahrain, is organising the second edition of its Property Event covering its financial solutions.

Building on the success of the inaugural event held last September, this event reinforces BisBs commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at empowering citizens with accessible housing solutions. Held in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning and Eskan Bank and, the event will be a one-stop shop for individuals looking to own their dream homes.

This years event will be held across Three of BisB Financial Malls over three consecutive weekends from 23rd May to 7th June 2024, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm each day. The Property Event will kick off on the weekend of 23rd and 24th May at Arad Financial Mall. The following weekend, on 31st May and 1st June, the event will be held in BisBs Budaiya Financial Mall.

The third weekend is scheduled for 6th June and 7th June at the Banks Hamad Town Financial Mall. The distributions of the events is to ensure convenient opportunities for residents in different areas of Bahrain to attend the event.

The event serves as a one-stop shop for individuals seeking to realise their homeownership aspirations. BisB will show a range of competitive real estate financing options designed to cater to the needs of potential homeowners.

These include competitive rates, free fire insurance for the financed properties, and other benefits part of Eskan Banks Housing Finance portfolio. Event visitors will have the opportunity to participate in Tejoori Al Islamis interactive games and win instant, valuable cash prizes.

The event will also feature Bahrains leading real estate development companies projects and available properties for end users, including Diyar Al Muharraq, Naseej, Al Janabiya Gate Real Estate, Era Real Estate, Delmon Gate, Manazel Real Estate, Al Raha Real Estate, VK Universal Property Management Co, and Effects Real Estate.

These developers will showcase their distinguished residential projects that meet the diverse requirements of prospective homeowners. On this occasion, Ms. Fatema AlAlawi, Chief Retail Banking Officer of BisB expressed: By hosting the event across multiple locations for an extended duration, we aim to enable more customers to achieve their homeownership aspirations.

The Property Event embodies BisBs ongoing dedication to serving critical sectors within Bahrain. BisB actively fosters partnerships with government institutions and private sector entities to support projects and initiatives that enrich the lives of customers and help them achieve their ambitions.
Partnership enables HTEC's H2 Gateway program, an emerging hydrogen infrastructure ecosystem

Disponible en francais

HTEC to build a by-product hydrogen liquefaction facility and three new hydrogen production facilities to expand Canada's low carbon fuel supply capacity .

. Investment will bring up to 20 hydrogen refuelling stations online in British Columbia and Alberta , more than doubling the amount of refuelling stations in Canada .

, more than doubling the amount of refuelling stations in . Supports the heavy-duty transportation sector in adopting hydrogen-fuelled vehicles.

Estimated to generate more than 280 full-time jobs over the construction and operations phases.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 24, 2024 /CNW/ - The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) and HTEC, a Vancouver-based designer, builder, owner and operator of hydrogen supply solutions, are partnering to accelerate the deployment of hydrogen production and refuelling infrastructure. Joining the CIB and HTEC today at the announcement were representatives from the Government of British Columbia and Government of Canada.

Rendering of HTEC liquefaction facility. (CNW Group/Canada Infrastructure Bank) CIB Chief Investment Officer John Casola (left) and HTEC CEO Colin Armstrong. (CNW Group/Canada Infrastructure Bank) HTEC (CNW Group/Canada Infrastructure Bank)

The CIB's $337 million loan will expedite and expand HTEC's operations in British Columbia and Alberta. The investment will contribute to the implementation of HTEC's full-service, sustainable fuel supply chain focused on reducing emissions in the transportation sector, called H2 Gateway.

HTEC plans to build and operate an interprovincial network of up to 20 hydrogen refuelling stations to support the deployment of fuel cell vehicles and advance greener transportation solutions. The refuelling stations will be supported by three new hydrogen production facilities located in Burnaby, Nanaimo and Prince George, and a facility that liquefies 15 tonnes per day of vented by-product hydrogen in North Vancouver. It is estimated that more than 280 full-time jobs will be created to build, operate and support the hydrogen infrastructure.

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can travel long distances and have relatively short refuelling times, presenting a unique opportunity to decarbonize the commercial trucking sector. As part of this investment, 14 of the 20 new stations will enable the refuelling of up to 300 heavy duty vehicles per day.

Once fully operational, it is forecasted transportation sector greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by approximately 133,000 tonnes annually.

H2 Gateway, an estimated $900 million program is focused on building hydrogen transportation ecosystems, driving which drives adoption of hydrogen as a transportation fuel in targeted regional hubs.

The CIB's financing will help accelerate the implementation of hydrogen technology and help mitigate uncertainty in the rate and pace of hydrogen adoption, which have historically been barriers to private investment in sustainable fuel production and infrastructure.

The partnership represents the third investment through the CIB's Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure (CHRI) initiative, which is focused on expanding the private sector's rollout of large-scale charging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.

The CIB's investment builds on previous support HTEC has received from Canada to advance clean transportation, including $5 million from PacifiCan's Business Scale-up and Productivity funding and $3 million from Natural Resources Canada's Zero Emissions Vehicle Infrastructure Program for its 2-tonne-per-day low-carbon hydrogen production and liquid transfer facility in Burnaby, BC.

Endorsements

Our partnership creates the right conditions for HTEC to expand its operations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. By investing in hydrogen production, distribution, and refuelling infrastructure, we are accelerating the deployment of this sustainable fuel solution. New partnerships in this emerging sector will help increase domestic hydrogen production and ensure Canada is economically competitive in a decarbonizing world.

Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank

Unlocking the potential of clean hydrogen is an essential step in decarbonizing and growing a prosperous, clean economy in Canada. It is also essential for Canada, as a country with over 100 years of experience in hydrogen innovation and proven global leadership in the energy space, to assist our democratic allies as they decarbonize and enhance their energy security. As outlined in our Hydrogen Progress Update, remarkable advancements have been made to the hydrogen landscape in Canada since the release of our Hydrogen Strategy in 2020. Today's CIB announcement is a further testament to this federal government's support for sustainable energy innovation in the race to net zero.

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

The CIB's Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure initiative focuses on transitioning Canada towards a sustainable fuel infrastructure ecosystem. HTEC, based right here in British Columbia, is developing innovative methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the heavy-duty transportation sector. This investment will support Canada in reaching its net-zero emissions target by 2050, generate jobs in Burnaby and across western Canada, and enhance how Canadians travel.

The Honourable Terry Beech, Minister of Citizens' Services and Member of Parliament for Burnaby North-Seymour.

Producing clean fuels like hydrogen right here in B.C. to replace diesel use for transportation helps to reduce harmful pollution, while creating new jobs and opportunities in the clean economy. By supporting innovative projects like H2 Gateway, we can ensure that BC remains a world-leader and attracts new investment in the growing clean economy.

Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation for British Columbia

The H2 Gateway vision for HTEC is now being realized. With the CIB's strategic investment, we are poised to establish highly sustainable hydrogen ecosystems that will drive the adoption of zero-emission transportation and support larger regional hydrogen hubs. An investment of this magnitude signals confidence in HTEC and the network of dedicated partners delivering safe, low-carbon energy solutions, putting Canada on the map.

Colin Armstrong, President and CEO, HTEC

HTEC

HTEC works across the clean hydrogen value chain, developing, integrating and operating clean hydrogen energy solutions in strategic North American markets to enable the transportation sector's transition to a low-carbon future. The company designs, builds, owns and operates hydrogen fuel production, infrastructure and supply solutions to support the deployment of hydrogen electric light-medium- and heavy-duty transportation. For more information, visit htec.ca.

SOURCE Canada Infrastructure Bank

Media contacts: Canada Infrastructure Bank, [email protected], 416-347-3358; HTEC, [email protected], 604-904-0412
Exceptional results achieved at Heffel spring auction, totalling a staggering $22.6M

Packed Toronto auction room with cheers from the crowd and remote bidder enthusiasm

auction room with cheers from the crowd and remote bidder enthusiasm Highlights included collection of legendary art dealer Torben V. Kristiansen , and masterworks by Jean Paul Riopelle , Tom Thomson , Emily Carr and others

, and masterworks by , , and others White-glove session of Canadian, Impressionist & Modern Art (100% sold)

TORONTO, May 23, 2024 /CNW/ - Today in Toronto, Heffel Fine Art Auction House hosted its highly-anticipated spring auction, showcasing more than 90 outstanding works of art to a packed sale room, buzzing with excitement. The auction was nothing short of spectacular, leading the market with three sessions of record-breaking sales of artworks that helped shape Canadian art history. A breathtaking Jean Paul Riopelle painting from the esteemed collection of Torben V. Kristiansen headlined the event, joined by masterpieces from Tom Thomson, Emily Carr and other art giants, collectively fetching an astounding $22.6 million. The event took place in Heffel's Toronto cutting-edge auction venue, expertly blending live action with a remote audience through their Digital Saleroom, uniting collectors from across the globe in a shared celebration of art. (All prices are in Canadian dollars and include a buyer's premium.)

Jean Paul Riopelles rare 1949 canvas Verts ombreuses sold for a staggering $2,761,250, leading the Heffel auction and the collection of Torben V. Kristiansen (CNW Group/Heffel Fine Art Auction House) Emily Carrs famous War Canoes, Alert Bay, a precursor to her famous canvas of the same title, sold at the Heffel spring auction for $871,250 (CNW Group/Heffel Fine Art Auction House)

A very special addition to Heffel's time-honoured sessions of Post-War & Contemporary Art and Canadian, Impressionist & Modern Art was Legendary: The Collection of Torben V. Kristiansen, one of the most extraordinary single-consignor collections ever to come to market in Canada. Kristiansen, who passed away in 2023, was a legendary figure in Canada's art world, and was known for his impeccable taste and deep love for the works he collected. The remarkable selection of works garnered global participation for coveted masterpieces and rare gems by the biggest names in Canadian art. The works from the collection totalled an astounding $9.1 million.

"The energy in the room tonight was absolutely electric," said Robert Heffel, Vice President of Heffel Fine Art Auction House. "The excitement and competitive spirit among bidders were a testament to the enduring appreciation for masterworks of exceptional quality. It was truly a privilege to witness the enthusiasm from across the world."

Highlights from the Heffel Spring 2024 Live Auction

Jean Paul Riopelle took centre stage, where his 10 outstanding works collectively garnered a staggering $6 million . His works sparked global interest and were led by the incredibly rare 1949 drip canvas, Verts ombreuses , which sold for $2,761,250 (est. $2,500,000  3,500,000) and his commanding 1954 masterpiece , Sans titre which fetched $1,321,250 (est. $1,200,000  1,600,000).

took centre stage, where his 10 outstanding works collectively garnered a staggering . His works sparked global interest and were led by the incredibly rare 1949 drip canvas, , which sold for (est.  3,500,000) and his commanding 1954 masterpiece which fetched (est.  1,600,000). Hugely important works by Emily Carr highlighted the white-glove session of Canadian, Impressionist & Modern Art . The famous War Canoes, Alert Bay , a precursor to her famous canvas of the same title in the collection of the Audain Art Museum, as well as Scorned as Timber, Beloved of the Sky , a study for a major work in the collection of the Vancouver Art Gallery each sold for $871,250 . Heffel is proud to be synonymous with Emily Carr's market, which continues to draw impressive results and attention from around the world.

highlighted the white-glove session of . The famous , a precursor to her famous canvas of the same title in the collection of the Audain Art Museum, as well as , a study for a major work in the collection of the Vancouver Art Gallery each sold for . Heffel is proud to be synonymous with market, which continues to draw impressive results and attention from around the world. Due to Tom Thomson 's untimely and mysterious death, his paintings are considered some of the most coveted in Canadian art. The Kristiansen collection featured three of his rare and impactful oil sketches, with Colourful Maples fetching $961, 250 (est . $700,000  $900,000 ) and Fall Woods, Algonquin Park selling for $931, 250 (est . $500,000  $700,000 ).

's untimely and mysterious death, his paintings are considered some of the most coveted in Canadian art. The Kristiansen collection featured three of his rare and impactful oil sketches, with fetching $961, .  ) and selling for $931, .  ). Important works by members of the Group of Seven drew major competition in the auction and soared past their estimated values. A.J. Casson 's graphic and atmospheric Summer Sky fetched $781, 250 (est . $150,000  250,000) and Lawren Harris' mesmerising abstract canvas, Mountain Experience reached $541, 250 (est . $150,000  250,000).

drew major competition in the auction and soared past their estimated values. 's graphic and atmospheric fetched $781, .  250,000) and mesmerising abstract canvas, reached $541, .  250,000). Mary Pratt 's Girl in My Dressing Gow n, the intimate and captivating portrait of muse Donna Meaney , set a deserving new record for the artist at $289,250 . This special canvas was one of the finest paintings by Pratt to ever grace the art market and is truly museum-quality (est. $150,000  $250,000 ).

's n, the intimate and captivating portrait of muse , set a deserving new record for the artist at . This special canvas was one of the finest paintings by Pratt to ever grace the art market and is truly museum-quality (est. $150,000  ). A stunning seascape by Takao Tanabe , a showstopper at the Heffel previews across Canada , shattered the previous artist record by a wide margin. Nootka 1/91: in Hanna Channel , the serene yet powerful 1991 canvas sold for an impressive $451,250 , well above its presale estimate of $60,000 to $80,000 .

, a showstopper at the Heffel previews across , shattered the previous artist record by a wide margin. , the serene yet powerful 1991 canvas sold for an impressive , well above its presale estimate of to . Two of Andy Warhol 's most sought-after prints stood out amongst the contemporary works on offer. The vibrant hot pink Marilyn Monroe (Marilyn) sold for $205, 250 (est . $80,000  120,000) and the iconic Mick Jagger sold for $157, 250 (est . $80,000  100,000). The market for Warhol's work remains strong, consistently demonstrating high demand and impressive auction results.

's most sought-after prints stood out amongst the contemporary works on offer. The vibrant hot pink sold for $205, .  120,000) and the iconic sold for $157, .  100,000). The market for Warhol's work remains strong, consistently demonstrating high demand and impressive auction results. Notable examples by six important artists set new benchmarks in the Heffel auction. In addition to Takao Tanabe and Mary Pratt , artist records were achieved with Prudence Heward's exceptional Sunflowers which sold for $301,250 , the rare Still Life with Fruit and Blue Teapot by Christiane Pflug which sold for $25,000 .

For more information on the works included in Heffel's spring live auction, visit www.heffel.com .

Additional works from the Collection of Torben V. Kristiansen are currently on offer through a curated Heffel online auction, closing on May 30, with future auctions to follow.

Heffel is now welcoming consignments for the fall 2024 auction season, encompassing international and Canadian works of art. The deadline for fall consignments is August 2024.

About Heffel Fine Art Auction House

Since 1978, Heffel has connected passionate collectors across the world with outstanding works of art, with sales totaling three quarters of a billion dollars. Heffel is renowned for its expertise in effectively managing and handling estates, serving as trusted experts for navigating the complexities of art collections inherited from estates with precision and care. With facilities in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa and Calgary, Heffel has the most experienced team of fine art specialists in Canada and provides premium client service to both sellers and buyers internationally.

SOURCE Heffel Fine Art Auction House

to schedule an interview, or for images and b-roll, please contact: Justine Nichol, [email protected], 1-604-789-4359
Six Chilean nationals have been accused of burglarizing homes in New Jersey, New York and other states, federal prosecutors said.

Flavio Bladimir Astete Castillo, Dareyen Mauricio Cortes-Canete, Luis Esteban Castillo Vivar, Max Vidal Navarrete, Jordan Estefano Contreras Vilches, and Juan Jose Ramirez Nilo, all of Chile, were each charged with one count of conspiracy to sell and receive stolen property that had crossed state lines and one count of receiving stolen property that had crossed state lines, according to a release from the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey.

Their burglary ring ran from March through April and the men targeted jewelry, collectibles and other valuable goods, the office alleged.

On April 19, 2024, they moved a heavy security safe stolen from an apartment building in Jersey City, while attempting to conceal the stolen item from detection by covering security cameras, according to a criminal complaint.

Later that same day, they were seen moving bags, designer luggage, and boxes containing other property down the stairs and exiting the same apartment, with Vivar assisting in moving the bags from the door of the building toward the street, investigators said.

About four hours later, police found a Kia Forte the men were driving in a parking garage near the Newport Centre Shopping Mall. All six men were inside a store in the mall, and five were detained for unrelated pending immigration violations, the complaint stated. Nilo was released but the complaint did not say why.

Police found the key for the Kia Forte on Castillo and a silver-chain necklace with an aqua pendant on Cortes-Canete, federal prosecutors said. The pendant was later positively identified as among the items stolen from a home in Westchester, New York.

Authorities later searched the Kia and and recovered multiple pieces of jewelry, collectible coins and cufflinks, and other valuable items, alongside tools commonly used to burglarize homes, such as gloves, balaclavas, and window punches, the office said.

Five of the men appeared in Newark federal court on Thursday and were detained. Nilo made his first appearance on Wednesday in Los Angeles federal court and was also detained, officials said.

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Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
Are you in the mood for some Celtic punk rock? Then get excited because the Dropkick Murphys are touring.

The band will begin their North American tour on Sept. 24 in New York City and will wrap up on Oct. 27 in Amherst, Mass.

Joining for the duration of the tour as support are Pennywise and The Scratch.

While touring, the Dropkick Murphys will support their latest album Okemah Rising that dropped last year.

The band recently wrapped up their annual St. Patricks Day Tour earlier this year, which was joined by the same openers.

If you want to snag tickets now to the Dropkick Murphys New York City show, the cheapest tickets available at the time of publication are $72 on StubHub.

But, if you want to wait for the general sale, you can get tickets when they go live on May 24 at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster.

Fans of the group can also find tickets on secondary market websites, such as Vivid Seats, StubHub, TicketCity and SeatGeek.

If you find that you never secure the tickets at the best cost or in the section you want to be in through StubHub, you can find some tips and tricks here.

First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout

A complete list of the Dropkick Murphys show dates is available here.

Massive Upcoming Tours 2024

The Dropkick Murphys are not the only band heading out on tour this year.

Here are a few other upcoming tours you wont want to miss: Rolling Stones, Grupo Frontera, NCT Dream and Falling in Reverse.

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Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
Pam Hemphill knows exactly what Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito was trying to signal to people when two types of flags carried by rioters during the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 were displayed outside two of his homes.

" ... He was communicating with these people, Hemphill said on CNN, referring to far-right groups like the Three Percenters and others who attacked the Capitol.

And Hemphill should know. She was once one of them.

Hemphill was an ardent Donald Trump supporter and among those people who descended on the Capitol after the former president refused to accept the results of the 2020 election. In 2022, a federal judge ordered her to serve two months in prison for her role.

Shes since said she had been brainwashed and accuses Trump of being a dangerous cult leader.

As for the flags that were on display outside of Alitos homes? (An Appeal to Heaven flag was flown outside Alitos beach vacation home last summer. An inverted American flag  another symbol carried by rioters  was seen at Alitos home outside Washington less than two weeks after the violent attack on the Capitol.)

Its dangerous. And purposeful, Hemphill insisted.

Well, to me, theres a historical symbol to it. But today youve got to understand (theres) also a second meaning to it because they will have symbols to communicate. And what it is to me its aid and comfort to enemies of our Constitution. They talk a lot about a civil war, but its not a civil war that theyre talking about. This is actually going to be a revolt and another insurrection is what theyre planning.

When he put that out, for them, for example, what I was taught when I was hanging out with the Three Percenters, they taught us that in case the phones go down or something happens and we have to have symbols and a way to communicate. And the flag is one of them. And he was communicating with these people using that flag.

Former Trump supporter @PamHemphill79, who served time in prison for her role in the Jan 6riots, says Alito's MAGA flag symbolizes a "revolt" and "another insurrection." pic.twitter.com/DjIlsA96by  Abby D. Phillip (@abbydphillip) May 24, 2024

News of the upside-down American flag sparked an uproar last week, including calls from high-ranking Democrats for Alito to recuse himself from cases related to former President Donald Trump.

Alito and the court declined to respond to requests for comment on how the Appeal to Heaven flag came to be flying and what it was intended to express. He previously said the inverted American flag was flown by his wife amid a dispute with neighbors, and he had no part in it.

The flag dates back to the Revolutionary War, but in more recent years it has become associated with Christian nationalism and support for Trump. It was carried by rioters fueled by Trumps Stop the Steal movement animated by false claims of election fraud.

Alito, meanwhile, is taking part in two pending Supreme Court cases associated with Jan. 6: whether Trump has immunity from prosecution for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and whether a certain obstruction charge can be used against rioters. He also participated in the courts unanimous ruling that states cant bar Trump from the ballot using the insurrection clause that was added to the Constitution after the Civil War.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @MatthewArco.
Donald Trump wasnt off limits Thursday night when The Rolling Stones came to New Jersey for a massive concert.

Mick Jagger put the former president and the adult film actor he allegedly paid to keep quiet about an affair on blast as he joked with the crowd he was thankful the weather held up. There was a chance rain would ruin the event.

I thought we were gonna get a bit of a Stormy Daniels but were alright, to which the crowd laughed.

Daniels is at the center of Trumps criminal trial in New York.

Jagger also noted earlier, during a fan-voted song choice in their set: Theres a much bigger vote happening in November.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records as part of an alleged effort to keep salacious  and, he says, bogus  stories about his sex life from emerging during his 2016 campaign. On Monday, Trump called the case brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg a scam and witch hunt.

The charges center on $130,000 in payments that Trumps company made to his then-lawyer, Michael Cohen. He paid that sum on Trumps behalf to keep Daniels from going public with her claims of a sexual encounter with Trump a decade earlier. Trump has denied the sexual encounter ever happened.

Prosecutors say the payments to Cohen were falsely logged as legal fees. Prosecutors have described it as part of a scheme to bury damaging stories Trump feared could help his opponent in the 2016 race, particularly as Trumps reputation was suffering at the time from comments he had made about women.

Trump has acknowledged reimbursing Cohen for the payment and that it was designed to stop Daniels from going public about the alleged encounter. But Trump has previously said it had nothing to do with the campaign.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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At his rally in the Bronx on Thursday night, law and order candidate Donald Trump, the ex-President and presumptive Republican nominee, accepted the endorsements of indicted gang members and Brooklyn rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow.

Last May, Michael Williams (Sheff G) and Tegan Chambers (Sleepy Hallow) were arrested as part of a 32 defendant, 140 count criminal indictment in New York.

The indictment included murder, attempted murder, illegal firearm possession, and at least a dozen shootings. They are allegedly part of the 8 Trey Crips and 9 Ways gangs.

According to the Daily News:

Sheff G, known to the government as Michael Williams, was out on bail set last month at $150,000 cash or $1 million bond for conspiracy charges and multiple counts of murder, assault and criminal possession of a weapon in the case covering 27 different acts of violence  including a dozen shootings.

His protege Sleepy Hallow, whose legal name is Tegan Chambers, was out on bail set at $200,000 cash or $150,000 bond for conspiracy charges.

We got the GOP nominee for president under indictment for 91 felonies accepting the endorsement on stage from 2 guys under indictment as part of a 140 count conspiracy that involves murder, & mainstream media is reporting on Trump renovating a skating rink.



Were screwed.  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) May 24, 2024

Sheff G used a lot of money he earned to facilitate gang activity, encouraging gang members to engage in violent crimes, Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez said when he announced the indictments.

Gang members who carried out shootings at Williams direction were rewarded with cash, jewelry, and appearances in music videos, prosecutors charged. He also is alleged to have been the getaway driver in a shooting. Tegan is charged with criminal conspiracy in connection with several felonies.

Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow were invited up on stage and they praised Trump and said they were supporting him for president. Trump complimented Sheff G on his gold teeth and joked that he wished he had a similar set.

One thing I want to say: They always gonna whisper your accomplishments and shout your failures. Trump gonna shout the wins for all of us, Sheff G said into the microphone alongside Trump on Thursday.

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If you havent seen the Four Seasons Orlando Baby yet on TikTok, youll want to catch up.

In the viral video, which has generated over 5.3 million likes and 44,000 comments, a mom asks her family the question Who wants to go to the Four Seasons Orlando? Shes met with a very enthusiastic, Me! from her two daughters and their dad.

The very well-spoken baby is all anyone can talk and repost about. But the video also has everyone who hasnt yet stayed at the 5-star hotel in Lake Buena Vista, Florida wondering what they might be missing.

After copious visits to the resorts website and plenty of Instagram stalking, here are all the best perks about the Four Seasons Orlando.

From its world-class dining experiences and Explorer Island water park to its dreamy, hop, skip and a jump-away distance to Walt Disney World parks and attractions, this luxe, family-friendly destination might live up to Four Season Orlando Babys hype.

Plush rooms: The Four Seasons Orlando Baby is a girl who appreciates taste and a level of luxury thats beyond anyones wildest dreams. But thats what Four Seasons Orlando offers with each of its well-appointed and furnished guest rooms and suites. Think: marble baths, tech connectivity everywhere you look and plush beds with soft linens. Pools and an on-site water park: Theres poolside fun for everyone: adults who want to unwind in the adult-only pool, kids who love water slides and a lazy river and toddlers who want to splash around. During the summer, the hotel also plays Disney movies at the pool on a billboard-size screen. Culinary adventures: Beyond the contemporary Latin American cuisine, wine and tapas, traditional Italian fare and more, you can also take an interactive cooking class and wine tasting at Ravellos Demonstration Kitchen led by the resorts executive chef. In-room dining is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Spa indulgences: The The on-property spa , that the hotel likens to a sanctuary, has one modus operandi in mind: rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. You can book a service from their list of treatments. Or you can treat your kiddo to their own Disney makeover, something akin to Magic Kingdoms Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Character breakfasts: Families can visit Families can visit Ravellos Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals on Thursdays and Saturdays for bites with their favorite Disney characters. Excitement from sunup to sundown: Little ones  ages 4 to 12  can attend the complimentary Little ones  ages 4 to 12  can attend the complimentary Kids For All Seasons drop-off program for supervised playtime, crafts and swim time. You also have the option to arrange after-hours babysitting services after 5 p.m. and Saturday evening supervision, if you want a parents night out. Kids-only hideouts: When older kids, tweens and teens need a break from the sun, they can hit up The Hideout to play video games, billiards and outdoor games, like ping-pong and foosball. Early park access and dismissal: As a guest of the Four Seasons, youll have access to complimentary shuttles to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Plus, youll be able to get into the parks 30 minutes ahead of general admittance and get to stay 30 minutes beyond their closing. And you can work with the Disney Planning Desk to As a guest of the Four Seasons, youll have access to complimentary shuttles to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Plus, youll be able to get into the parks 30 minutes ahead of general admittance and get to stay 30 minutes beyond their closing. And you can work with the Disney Planning Desk to arrange a private Disney outing with a qualified tour guide for a behind-the-scenes look at all the Disney magic. Fireworks as far as the eyes can see: There are There are deluxe rooms and terraces where you can sit and watch Disneys nightly firework displays at Magic Kingdom and Epcot  without the crowds. Enough said.

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Danielle Halibey can be reached at dhalibey@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
A New Jersey town has come up with a three-step plan to combat its Canada geese problem, none of which involve the original proposal of killing the birds that sparked an outcry from local residents.

A photography and video production service used drones on Wednesday to chase the geese away from Liberty Park in Peapack-Gladstone, a group fighting the euthanasia of the geese said.

The work by North Jersey Drone Shots marks a significant step in addressing the communitys concerns about humane relocation, the community group said in a statement.

Borough officials plan to apply bird repellent Flock Free to the park in Somerset County, according to Save the Peapack-Gladstone Geese, a community group. The bird repellent will have to be reapplied after it rains since it is not commercial grade.

Any geese that remain or return will be relocated to Barnyard Sanctuary in Knowlton, Warren County. A certified wildlife handler would have to be hired to transport the geese.

Peapack and Gladstone Borough Council members on March 5 voted to allow federal wildlife officials to round up and euthanize geese. Officials say Canada geese have overpopulated Liberty Park, but some residents disagree.Photo courtesy of Jackie Braun

The borough council previously said it would allow federal officials to euthanize the Canada geese with carbon dioxide. The method, which involves rounding up the birds during molting season, when they cannot fly, is approved by the federal government.

A councilwoman said the geese pose health risks to people who use the park and that earlier non-lethal methods to get the geese out have failed.

The owner of the Barnyard Sanctuary stepped forward after Mayor Mark Corigliano put out a call for help at May 14 borough council meeting .

We would love to relocate them, Corigliano said. Love it. If anyone here knows of a town willing to take our population, we will send them over.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com
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Ron Faucheux is a nonpartisan political analyst, pollster and writer based in Louisiana. He publishes LunchtimePolitics.com, a nationwide newsletter on polls and public opinion.
As Refugee Week 2024 approaches, North Devon Council and the Pickwell Foundation are urging individuals, community groups, and businesses to support the festival alongside them.

Refugee Week, taking place from Monday, June 17 to Sunday, June 23, is the worlds largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity, and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary.

Established in 1998 in the UK, this annual festival aligns with World Refugee Day, celebrated globally on June 20.

This year's theme is Our Home.

The Pickwell Foundation provides local support to refugees through various schemes, including refugee resettlement via the Community Sponsorship Scheme, support for Ukrainians and their sponsors in North Devon and Torridge through the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, and assistance to Afghan families relocating to North Devon under the ARAP scheme.

Organisers said: From the places we gather to share meals to our collective home, planet Earth: everyone is invited to celebrate what Our Home means to them.

Supported by the council, Pickwell is organising a variety of events around this theme, including:

Saturday, June 15: Ilfracombe Library Event - Crafts and book reading

Tuesday, June 18: Launch of Exhibition and Information Stand at Barnstaple Pannier Market

Tuesday, June 18: Barnstaple Library Event with DCC, Sunrise, and Works Club - Crafts and book reading

Wednesday, June 19: Exhibition and Information Stand at Pannier Market

Wednesday, June 19: Petroc Liberty Cafe session for resettled families

Thursday, June 20: Exhibition and Information Stand at Pannier Market

Friday, June 21: Exhibition and Information Stand at Pannier Market

Saturday, June 22: Community Led Welcome Event at Barnstaple Pannier Market

North Devon has welcomed many refugees, including asylum seekers escaping war in Ukraine and Afghans who have worked with the British armed forces.

Both Pickwell and the council encourage the community to extend warmth and hospitality to these individuals and families by holding events to mark Refugee Week or performing simple acts like having a chat, walking together, or sending a message of welcome to help refugees feel at home.

Nina Lake, Head of Housing at North Devon Council, said: I am heartened by the warm embrace our community has extended to Ukrainian refugees fleeing conflict in their home country over the past two years, and more recently to Afghan families who bravely served alongside the British armed forces. Refugee Week 2024 is an opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to compassion and solidarity. Let's come together in North Devon to hold events marking the week - or simply carry out simple acts of kindness to welcome those who have been displaced. By doing so, we can share 'Our Home' and show the true spirit of humanity.

Nicola Jenner, Communications and Events Lead, added: "We're excited to start sharing our plans for this year's Refugee Week, which will serve to honour the contributions, creativity, and resilience of the individuals who've sought sanctuary in our local towns and villages. We will be sharing incredible examples of community-led welcome and how you can plant the seeds in #OurHome to make the community of northern Devon an even more compassionate place.

If you would like to get involved during the day, please reach out. Were looking for face painters and other craft activities to make this a fun and interactive event. This event is free and community-led, so your time and contributions will be donated.

Organisers of Refugee Week encourage supporters to use the hashtags #RefugeeWeek, #SimpleActs, and #TogetherWithRefugees.

Anyone interested in participating in Refugee Week can email Nicola at Nicola@thepickwellfoundation.org.uk.

For more information on taking part in Refugee Week 2024, including an event organiser pack, visit the Refugee Week website.
Eli Lilly will spend more than $5 billion to expand an Indiana manufacturing site and eventually make more doses of its popular weight-loss and diabetes treatments, Zepbound and Mounjaro.

The drugmaker said Friday that it was more than doubling its investment in a site near its Indianapolis headquarters. But it will take time for the location to start producing.

The company broke ground for its Lebanon, Indiana, manufacturing plant last year and expects to start making products there near the end of 2026. Production will then increase through 2028.

The expanded project, located in the LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon, was announced Friday at the Indiana Global Economic Summit hosted by Gov. Eric Holcomb.

Lilly continues to play a transformational role in shaping Indianas opportunity economy, and I couldnt be more proud about their pole position leadership in developing the LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon, Indiana. Lilly has long been driving global innovation and economic growth that will be felt for decades here at home, Holcomb said in a statement.

Lilly said it would add $5.3 billion to the $3.7 billion it had already slated for the site. Company officials said in a statement that this amounts to the largest manufacturing investment in the company's history, which dates back to the 19th century.

"This multi-site campus will make our latest medicines, support pipeline growth and leverage the latest technology and automation for maximum efficiency, safety and quality control," Lilly Chairman and CEO David Ricks said in the statement. "Importantly, we are investing in our home state of Indiana, creating high-wage, advanced manufacturing, engineering and science jobs for hundreds of current and future Hoosier families."

The site will make tirzepatide, the main ingredient behind both Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Zepbound, the weight-loss treatment, received U.S. regulatory approval last fall. The two drugs combined to generate more than $2 billion in sales in this year's first quarter.

But Lilly has struggled to make enough supply to keep up with the growing demand, as has its rival, the Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk, which makes the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy.

Company officials have said they expected some manufacturing increases to occur starting in the back half of this year.

Analysts expect Zepbound and Mounjaro to eventually generate well over $30 billion in combined annual sales for Lilly, according to the data firm FactSet.
In a statement, Mr. Skrmetti said his office would investigate the situation.

There is no home in Tennessee more beloved than Graceland, he said. I have asked my lawyers to look into this matter, determine the full extent of any misconduct that may have occurred and identify what we can do to protect both Elvis Presleys heirs and anyone else who may be similarly threatened.

Several attempts to reach Naussany Investments through the email addresses and phone numbers listed for the company in the court documents have not been successful.

A representative for Graceland did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday night.

The bizarre case came into wide public view this week when a lawsuit surfaced that had been filed by Ms. Keough. The suit reported that last fall, Naussany Investments filed papers in a California court claiming that Lisa Marie Presley  Ms. Keoughs mother and Mr. Presleys daughter  had borrowed $3.8 million and put Graceland up as collateral before she died in 2023. Ms. Keoughs suit said Ms. Presley had never borrowed money from the company, and that the documents the company presented as evidence of her doing so were fraudulent.

At Wednesdays hearing at Chancery Court in Shelby County, Tenn., the judge, Chancellor JoeDae L. Jenkins, said he needed to continue the case. He said the continuance was based in part on the fact that no one showed up in person to represent the company seeking to sell Graceland, and in part because he said lawyers for Ms. Keough needed to present additional evidence.
When it is revealed, the meaning of The Hours are Feminine, the title of Jose Riveras latest play, is an apt encapsulation of the work. A newly immigrated Puerto Rican mother is explaining the Spanish languages gendered grammar to her neighbor within a larger conversation about how bored they are as housewives on Long Island: Time is masculine, but 

Its a poetic phrase that is almost too perfect, bordering on trite. Yet it contains such insight that it evokes a nodding mm-hmm from the audience. Like this line, the whole play, in its premiere production at Intar Theater in Manhattan, strikes a delicate balance between truism and genuine feeling.

Rivera writes and directs it as a remembrance of his familys move to Long Island in the summer of 1960, which ended with the arrival of Hurricane Donna. His stand-in, 5-year-old Jaivin (Donovan Monzon-Sanders), and his mother, Evalisse (Maribel Martinez), arrive in Lake Ronkonkoma from their native island a year after his father, Fernan (Hiram Delgado), has settled into their new home.

Fernan has secured for them a ratty, illegally rented shack in the backyard of a picturesque house owned by Charlie (Dan Grimaldi), an aging Italian American creep who taunts them with slurs he knows they dont understand. (The three family members perform their Spanish dialogue in English, so that their language barrier is revealed, poignantly, as a ghost might realize hes invisible).
A union for academic workers in the University of California system announced on Thursday that an ongoing strike challenging the systems handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations would extend to two more campuses, U.C.L.A. and U.C. Davis, starting next Tuesday.

The announcement came on the same day that U.C.L.A.s chancellor, Gene D. Block, testified before Congress about his handling of a violent attack on an encampment there last month by counterprotesters.

The walkout first started this week at U.C. Santa Cruz, involving about 2,000 teaching assistants, tutors and researchers, and it has threatened to complicate coursework and spring finals for the 20,000 students enrolled there. The Santa Cruz, Davis and Los Angeles campuses all end their spring quarters in mid-June.

The union, U.A.W. 4811, part of the United Auto Workers, represents about 48,000 graduate students and other academic workers across the U.C. system, which encompasses 10 campuses and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Among other grievances, the workers have charged that the universitys response to recent campus protests over the Israel-Hamas war has created an unsafe work environment, and has amounted to an unlawful and unilateral change in its policies on free speech.
Fani T. Willis, the lead prosecutor in the Georgia election interference case against former President Donald J. Trump and 14 of his allies, said on Thursday that her office would appeal a judges decision earlier this year to throw out six of the dozens of counts in the sprawling indictment.

Thursdays legal filing by Ms. Willis, the Fulton County district attorney, creates a second substantive set of issues that must now be considered by the Georgia Court of Appeals before the election case can go to trial. This month, the court agreed to hear the appeal of another ruling by the judge, Scott McAfee, that allowed Ms. Willis to remain on the case despite defense lawyers arguing that she should be disqualified.

Ms. Williss decision to file the appeal was yet another indication that the closely watched election interference case was unlikely to go to trial before the upcoming presidential election. In some ways its an implicit concession that its not going to happen before November, said Anthony Michael Kreis, a law professor at Georgia State University who has been following the case closely.

A spokesman for the district attorneys office declined to comment on the filing on Thursday.

The original indictment, which was handed up by a grand jury in August, included 41 counts against Mr. Trump and 18 co-defendants. Four of those co-defendants have since pleaded guilty.
Yes, Barack Obama was there.

State dinners are best known as bear hugs for overseas allies, and Thursdays honoree was Kenya. But the sixth state dinner of President Bidens term was designed to clutch domestic allies  not the least of them Mr. Obama, whose father was Kenyan  even tighter as the president makes the long slog toward November.

The 500-person event, held on the South Lawn of the White House on a humid May evening, was attended by dozens of influential Kenyans, of course. The list included President William Ruto of Kenya and his wife, Rachel, along with three of his daughters. It also included some of the countrys wealthiest figures, like James Mwangi, the chief executive of the global banking conglomerate Equity Group Holdings Limited.

We share a strong respect for the history that connects us together, Mr. Biden said to his guests during a toast. He quoted from a speech given by President Jimmy Carter, who honored Kenya with a state dinner in 1980: Neighbors do not share a border but share beliefs.

But the evening, along with the guest list, was just as notable for what it said about Mr. Bidens current political obstacles. Aside from Mr. Obama  the former president was not on the initial guest list published by the White House, and he departed before Mr. Bidens speech  the list name-checked the people Mr. Biden will want to bring closer into the fold in the months ahead. The lineup included elected officials in several battleground states, influential Black political operatives, and powerful philanthropists, like Melinda French Gates.
Miles from the rather somber Manhattan courtroom where he has spent much of the past five weeks as a criminal defendant, former President Donald J. Trump on Thursday stood at a park in the Bronx, surveyed the crowd and acknowledged he had been concerned over how he might be greeted at his first rally in New York State in eight years, and his first ever in the borough.

In front of him was a more diverse crowd than is typical of his rallies, with many Black and Hispanic voters sporting bright red Make America Great Again hats and other Trump-themed apparel ordinarily scarce in deep-blue New York City. Still more people stood outside, waiting to get past security.

I woke up, I said, I wonder, will it be hostile or will it be friendly? Mr. Trump said. It was beyond friendly. It was a love fest.

As is often the case during Mr. Trump's speeches, the truth was a bit more complex. As he spoke, more than 100 protesters demonstrated outside the fenced-off area of Crotona Park where he had staged the rally. A wave of elected officials denounced his visit to the city. And his insistence that he would carry New York in November  though perhaps not as laughable as it once might have sounded, judging from at least one recent poll  conveniently disregarded the thumping he took in the state in the 2016 and 2020 elections.
In the language of the Lenape Indigenous people, the word for European explorers who crossed the Atlantic in the 17th century to settle on their lands was shuwankook, or salty people.

The term first applied to the Dutch, said Brent Stonefish, a Native American spiritual leader, because they emerged from the sea to first trade with, then exploit and kill, his Lenape ancestors.

The Dutch were basically those who ran us out of our homeland, and they were very violent toward our people, he said in an interview. As far as I was concerned, they were the savages.

So, when the Dutch Consulate in New York approached Stonefish to ask if hed help commemorate the anniversary of the 1624 establishment of the first Dutch settler colony, New Amsterdam, he was taken aback.
This songs for Manhattan! Mick Jagger told the crowd on Thursday night at MetLife Stadium, before launching into a punchy rendition of Shattered, that agitated ode to late-70s New York City that closes out the bands 1978 album Some Girls. In the ensuing 46 years, the city has changed in some superficial ways but somehow remained essentially the same  much, as they showed throughout an impressively energetic two-hour set, like the Rolling Stones.

The Stones first New York-area stadium gig in five years was sponsored, without a hint of irony, by AARP. It was appropriate: At times what transpired onstage felt not just like a rock concert but a display of the evolutionary marvel that is aging in the 21st century. (Albeit aging while wealthy, with every possible technological and medical advantage at ones disposal. Ill have whatever vitamins the Stones are taking, please.)

Ronnie Wood, the core groups baby at age 76, still shreds on the guitar with a grinning, impish verve. Eighty-year-old and eternally cool Keith Richards pairs his bluesy licks with a humble demeanor that seems to say I cant believe Im still here, either. And then there is Jagger, who turns 81 a few days after the Hackney Diamonds Tour wraps in July. Six decades into his performing career, he is somehow still the indefatigable dynamo he always was, slithering vertically like a charmed snake, chopping the air as if hes in a kung fu battle against a swarm of unseen mosquitoes, and, when he needs both hands to dance, which is often, nestling the microphone provocatively above the fly of his pants. Sprinting the length of the stage during a rousing Honky Tonk Women  the 13th song in the set!  he conjured no other rock star so much as Benjamin Button, as he seemed to become even more energetic as the night went on.
A U.S. aid project has brought little relief to Gaza

The U.S. predicted that a floating pier off Gaza built by its military would allow for a steady stream of humanitarian aid. But little relief has reached Palestinians in the strip, officials said this week.

Several trucks were looted as they made their way to a warehouse, and operations were suspended for two days. The U.N. World Food Program has warned that the pier project could fail if Israel does not do more to ensure the safe distribution of the aid.

The relief effort faltered as Israeli forces pushed deeper into Rafah, in southern Gaza. Israels military said yesterday that its forces were fighting near the center of Rafah. Around 815,000 people have left the city as a result.

The assault came in a week when Israel was facing mounting diplomatic and legal pressure over its war effort. Today, the International Court of Justice in The Hague is set to respond to a South African petition for an immediate halt to the ground assault in Rafah.
A one-man startup believes it has an answer to U.S. government concerns over the Chinese-made drones that dominate commercial sales in the American market.

Anzu Roboticss chief executive and founding partners are all American, and the companys headquarters is in Texas. The companys drones, which are expected to be used by law enforcement agencies, utilities, architects and others, are assembled in Malaysia, and they run on servers sitting in Virginia.

Theres just one problem: Anzu has multiple close ties to China and to DJI, the Shenzhen-based firm being targeted by legislative and regulatory efforts to curb sales of Chinese drones in the United States.

Roughly half of Anzus parts come from China. Much of its software originated there. Anzu licensed the design for its drones from DJI, which receives a payment for every drone that Anzu orders from its manufacturer in Malaysia.
After Chuck E. Cheeses plans to retire most of its animatronic bands sparked an outcry from wistful fans, the pizzeria-arcade chain said it would keep a few more of the bands.

The company will increase to five the number of animatronic bands that will stay, a company spokeswoman said to The New York Times in a statement on Thursday.

The move comes after The Times detailed the chains plan to phase out animatronic performers at all but two of the more than 400 Chuck E. Cheese locations in the United States by the end of the year. The company said it had wanted to update the Chuck E. Cheese experience for a new generation of digitally inclined children.

The backlash was swift. A few distraught fans even managed to get a hold of the chains chief executive, David McKillips, on his personal phone to appeal for the survival of at least a few more of the animatronic performers, known as Munchs Make Believe Band.
Health officials are warning Americans not to drink raw milk as bird flu spreads through American cows. But some media figures and influencers are misleadingly suggesting that the product is safe or even healthier than traditional milk. And sales are growing.

Commentators on sites like Infowars, Gab and Rumble have grown increasingly vocal about raw milk in recent weeks. They see the governments heightened concerns about the dangers as overreach.

They say: Bird flu in milk! Bird flu in milk! Oh, its the scariest thing! Owen Shroyer said on the April 29 episode of his War Room podcast from Infowars. He added: Theyll just make raw milk illegal. Thats what this is all about.

Public health officials have long warned Americans of the severe health risks that can come with drinking raw milk instead of pasteurized milk, which is heated to kill bacteria, viruses and other germs. Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found more than 200 disease outbreaks linked to unpasteurized milk from 1998 to 2018, leading to 2,645 illnesses, 228 hospitalizations and three deaths.
A week after losing a hard-fought election at two Mercedes-Benz factories in Alabama, the United Automobile Workers asked federal officials on Friday to order a new vote, saying the German carmaker violated labor laws to suppress support for the union.

Mercedes-Benz conducted a relentless anti-union campaign marked by wanton lawlessness, the U.A.W. said in a complaint to the National Labor Relations Board. Among other things, the union said, Mercedes fired four employees who supported the union, prevented pro-union employees from campaigning and forced employees to watch anti-union videos.

Workers at the Mercedes factories outside Tuscaloosa, which manufacture sport utility vehicles and battery packs, voted 56 percent to 44 percent against joining the union. But the labor board can order a new election if, after a hearing, a regional director determines that improper conduct by an employer affected the vote, a spokeswoman for the board said.

Mercedes denied that it had used improper methods to defeat the union drive. A majority of workers indicated they are not interested in being represented by the U.A.W., the company said in a statement on Friday.
As a child in Bolivia, Mateo De La Rocha told his family he wanted to work as a garbage man when he grew up. In La Paz, his home city at the time, trash piles were everywhere. In Mr. De La Rochas eyes, the local sanitation worker was the only person cleaning up pollution. I didnt really see anyone doing anything about it, apart from the garbage man, he said.

His family later moved to the United States, and now Mr. De La Rocha is a high school senior in Cary, N.C., who has found a unique way to clean up pollution: Along with two friends, he recently raised $11,000 to plug an abandoned oil well in Ohio that was leaking gas close to a barn on a horse farm. Its an unusually niche cause for young environmentalists to take up, but one with a potentially significant effect on global climate change.

As many as 3.9 million abandoned and aging oil and gas wells dot the United States, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The reasons for abandonment vary, but at least 126,000 of these wells are orphans, meaning theres no longer an owner or company that state regulators can hold responsible for them. And many of the wells leak methane, a greenhouse gas thats nearly 30 times as powerful as carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere over a period of 100 years, and even more powerful over shorter time periods.

The E.P.A. estimates that abandoned wells collectively released 303,000 metric tons of methane in 2022, roughly equivalent to how much carbon dioxide 23 gas-burning power plants might release in one year. This estimate, however, is highly uncertain.
The Manhattan district attorneys office has asked the judge overseeing Harvey Weinsteins retrial on sex crimes charges to urge the lead defense lawyer to stop making public statements that prosecutors said were intended to intimidate and to attack the credibility and character of witnesses.

In a letter to the judge filed on Thursday in Manhattan Supreme Court, prosecutors asked Justice Curtis Farber to remind the lawyer, Arthur Aidala, of his ethical obligations regarding out-of-court statements under the New York Rules of Professional Conduct.

They accused him of violating the rules with critical public statements about Miriam Haley, a former television production assistant. She testified at Mr. Weinsteins 2020 trial that he forced oral sex on her in his Manhattan apartment in July 2006.

Mr. Weinstein, a former Hollywood producer, was convicted of committing a criminal sexual act against Ms. Haley and raping another woman, but the convictions were overturned last month after New Yorks highest court ruled that he had not had a fair trial. At a news conference days later, Mr. Aidala accused Ms. Haley of lying to the jury and said he would diligently prepare to cross-examine her at the retrial if she dares to come and show her face here.
Just after 7 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18, as the sun was rising in the Gulf of Mexico, Noel Rangel, a 26-year-old native of Brownsville, Texas, was brought unwillingly into wakefulness by an uninvited sensation: The richest man in the world was shaking him. Or rather, his entire apartment. His bed was rumbling, his windows rattling. I could hear the glass, he said. He was confused. He woke as if Elon Musk himself had grabbed him by the shoulders.

Americans as a whole have become more familiar with the tax that powerful and erratic figures levy on peoples emotional and mental well-being. Though many very rich men fantasize about disconnecting from other humans  to go to space, or, in the case of the tech billionaire Peter Thiel, to create artificial cities in international waters  they are more desperate for social validation, not less. They need to inspire love or fear or awe.

Many people suspect that Donald Trump  though he denies it  ran for president in part because he was tired of being mocked so often. Jeff Bezos spent $42 million to build a mechanical clock under a West Texas mountain that is intended to last 10,000 years. Mr. Musk spent $44 billion of mostly other peoples money to buy Twitter, rebrand it as X and guarantee that he could continue to irritate people on a global scale.

For Mr. Rangel, what was figurative for others had become literal: When a tycoon stomps, the earth shakes. Mr. Musks company SpaceX had launched a new iteration of its Starship rocket about 25 miles away. That one didnt blow up over his city as previous launches had. But Mr. Rangel still couldnt go back to sleep. Across social media, some residents shared his irritation at being roused by a launch they did not realize was coming.
Among the worst episodes in American history are those moments when the federal government deploys the full weight of its power against the most vulnerable people in the country: the Trail of Tears and the Fugitive Slave Act in the 19th century and Japanese internment in the middle of the 20th, to name three.

If he is granted a second term in the White House, Donald Trump hopes to add his own entry to this ignominious book of national shame.

Trumps signature promise, during the 2016 presidential election, was that he would build a wall on the U.S. border with Mexico. His signature promise, this time around, is that hell use his power as president to deport as many as 20 million people from the United States.

Following the Eisenhower model, he told a crowd in Iowa last September, we will carry out the largest domestic deportation operation in American history.
Dominique Isabel Pascale Crenn receives countless DMs on Instagram from people trying to get a table at her San Francisco restaurant, Atelier Crenn. She doesnt usually respond.

But when Maria Elaina Bello sent her a DM in April 2018, the message resonated with her.

Lorraine Silvera, a friend of Ms. Bellos and a fellow food lover, had seen Ms. Crenn on the Netflix documentary series Chefs Table. Ms. Silvera and Ms. Bello were flying to San Francisco from Los Angeles for dinner at Atelier Crenn, but reservations were fully booked.

Ms. Bello, 57, sent a message to Ms. Crenn, 59, on Instagram: My friend Lolo who started the first Italian restaurant in Cap-Haitien, Haiti, is coming to visit next week and wants nothing more than to eat your divine food. We will fly from L.A. Thursday if its possible to get into the restaurant.

As it happened, Ms. Crenn had been to Haiti the year before with her friend Michelle Jean, who is Haitian, to help farmers who had been affected by Hurricane Matthew, which devastated the country in October 2016. Their efforts to rebuild infrastructure included planting trees for coffee and cacao farmers. Ms. Crenn felt compelled to respond to Ms. Bello, and she made space at the restaurant for her and her friend.
Just before Russian troops pushed across the Ukrainian northern border this month, members of Ukraines 92nd Assault Brigade lost a vital resource. Starlink satellite internet service, which soldiers use to communicate, collect intelligence and conduct drone attacks, had slowed to a crawl.

Operated by Elon Musks SpaceX, Starlink has been critical to the Ukrainian military since the earliest days of the war with Russia. Without the full service, Ukrainian soldiers said, they couldnt quickly communicate and share information about the surprise onslaught and resorted to sending text messages. Their experiences were repeated across the new northern front line, according to Ukrainian soldiers, officials and electronics warfare experts.

At the heart of the outages: increased interference from Russia.

As Russian troops made gains this month near Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, they deployed stronger electronic weapons and more sophisticated tools to degrade Starlink service, Ukrainian officials said. The advances pose a major threat to Ukraine, which has often managed to outmaneuver the Russian military with the help of frontline connectivity and other technology, but has been on the defensive against the renewed Russian advance.

The new outages appeared to be the first time the Russians have caused widespread disruptions of Starlink. If they continue to succeed, it could mark a tactical shift in the conflict, highlighting Ukraines vulnerability and dependence on the service provided by Mr. Musks company. As the United States and other governments work with SpaceX, the disruptions raise broader questions about Starlinks reliability against a technically sophisticated adversary.
Brooke Shields, the model-turned-actor who has starred in films, on television and onstage, has been elected as the next president of Actors Equity Association, the labor union representing stage actors and stage managers.

Shields, 58, will take office immediately. She succeeds Kate Shindle, who had been the unions president since 2015, and announced last month that she would not seek re-election.

The position of Equity president is a volunteer job, and Shields was elected to a four-year term. There have been a number of other well-known performers who have served in the post previously, including Burgess Meredith, Ellen Burstyn, Colleen Dewhurst and Ron Silver.

Shields won the election with about half the vote; the balance was split between two Equity vice presidents, Erin Maureen Koster and Wydetta Carter. Her victory was reported by the newsletter Broadway Journal and announced by the union on Friday; a union spokesman said she was not available for an interview.
Europe, the worlds fastest-warming continent, is headed for another scorching summer, meteorologists warn. And travelers, once again, are heading to the hot spots.

Last year, large parts of southern Europe experienced prolonged periods of extreme heat with temperatures reaching 118 degrees and lasting up to two weeks or more. The sweltering conditions upended vacations throughout the summer season as visitors collapsed from heat exhaustion at crowded tourist sites, and wildfires led to evacuations in Greece, Italy and Spain.

Our computer models are in good agreement that its going to be another unusually hot summer, especially during late July through August, said Todd Crawford, vice president of meteorology at Atmospheric G2, a weather and climate intelligence firm based in Manchester, N.H. The company expects the magnitude of the heat to be similar to 2022, the hottest summer ever recorded in Europe, with the most anomalous heat projected in the south, in popular countries for travelers like Greece, Croatia and Italy.

Since 1991, Europe has been warming at twice the global average, and 23 of the 30 most severe heat waves in Europe since 1950 have occurred since 2000, with five in the last three years, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service said several factors contribute to the continents vulnerability, including the proportion of European land in the Arctic  the fastest-warming region on earth  and changes in atmospheric circulation.
The loud noises outside their bedroom door woke them before dawn. Bryan Malinowski bolted up and looked at his wife, Maer. Stay back, she remembers him saying after he reached into a drawer for his gun and loaded it.

He crept into a hallway in their home in Little Rock, Ark., and saw figures in the darkness. He started shooting, and was met with return fire.

The people shooting back at him were agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, executing a search warrant on suspicion that Mr. Malinowski had repeatedly sold guns without a license. What made this different from many such confrontations was that Mr. Malinowski was a respected official in the community, the director of Little Rocks airport.

Mr. Malinowski shot an agent in the foot. As the agents fired back, a bullet struck Mr. Malinowski, 53, in the head, and two days later, he died in a hospital. His death has been met with outrage by his family, friends and gun rights supporters in Arkansas and beyond, who say the raid on March 19 was ill-conceived, unnecessary and a shocking case of government overreach.
Around now, university officials might usually take a deep breath. Campuses are emptying out for the end of the academic year. Gone, for the most part, are the tent cities that student activists erected as a symbol of opposition to Israels war in Gaza.

But this summer might feel longer than most.

Congressional Republicans have promised to press their investigation into college antisemitism, even as they have completed their latest hearing, which they tried to turn into a public shaming session for the leaders of Rutgers, Northwestern and the University of California, Los Angeles, over their handling of campus encampments.

And protesters have likewise promised not to give up  with hundreds walking out at Harvards graduation on Thursday, and students at U.C.L.A. pitching new tents and briefly taking over a building.

Over the next few months, colleges will need to navigate a complex set of challenges. There are ongoing federal investigations at scores of universities and school districts over their handling of antisemitism claims. There are hundreds of discipline cases to be decided. And plans are needed for the fall, when college quads will fill back up just a couple of months before the presidential election  possibly with more protesters.
Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III underwent a nonsurgical procedure on Friday night to address a bladder-related issue and during the hospitalization temporarily turned over duties to his deputy, the Pentagon said on Friday.

Around 6 p.m., Mr. Austin underwent a successful, elective, and minimally invasive follow-up procedure at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said in a statement.

During that period, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks assumed the functions and duties of the secretary of defense, the statement said.

Mr. Austin resumed his duties at 8:25 p.m. and returned home, General Ryder said. He added that Mr. Austin, a retired four-star Army general, was expected to participate in Memorial Day events scheduled on Monday.
Toward the end of a rally in the Bronx on Thursday that his campaign staged to try to bolster and highlight his support among Black and Hispanic voters, former President Donald J. Trump called upon two hip-hop artists who have been accused of participating in violent gang warfare fueled in part by their music.

The rappers, Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow, were among several guests invited to voice their support for Mr. Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. After they did so, Mr. Trump expressed his gratitude, and then complimented Sheff Gs glittering jewel-encrusted grill. I like those teeth. I want to find out where you did  I got to get my teeth like that, he said. I want that to happen to me.

But Mr. Trump  who earlier in his speech had vowed to restore the rule of law in New York City, denounced urban crime and touted his allegiance to the police  did not address the charges the two men are facing: counts of conspiracy to commit murder and weapons possession.

Presidential candidates typically try to distance themselves from people accused of violent crimes. But the joint appearance, which was clipped and shared on social media by the Trump campaign and many in the hip-hop media ecosystem, was not a one-off event but rather one in a series of Mr. Trumps blunt and sometimes clumsy overtures to court Black voters, and particularly Black men.
Semaglutide, the compound in the blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, dramatically reduced the risk of kidney complications, heart issues and death in people with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease in a major clinical trial, the results of which were published on Friday. The findings could transform how doctors treat some of the sickest patients with chronic kidney disease, which affects more than one in seven adults in the United States but has no cure.

Those of us who really care about kidney patients spent our whole careers wanting something better, said Dr. Katherine Tuttle, a professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and an author of the study. And this is as good as it gets. The research was presented at a European Renal Association meeting in Stockholm on Friday and simultaneously published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

The trial, funded by Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk, was so successful that the company stopped it early. Dr. Martin Holst Lange, Novo Nordisks executive vice president of development, said that the company would ask the Food and Drug Administration to update Ozempics label to say it can also be used to reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease or complications in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease, which occurs when the kidneys dont function as well as they should. In advanced stages, the kidneys are so damaged that they cannot properly filter blood. This can cause fluid and waste to build up in the blood, which can exacerbate high blood pressure and raise the risk of heart disease and stroke, said Dr. Subramaniam Pennathur, the chief of the nephrology division at Michigan Medicine.
An Oklahoma-based missionary group working in Haitis capital was attacked by gangs on Thursday night, leaving two Americans and the groups director dead, the organization, Missions in Haiti, announced on Facebook.

Missions in Haiti runs a school for 450 children, as well as two churches and a childrens home in the Bon Repos neighborhood in the northern outskirts of Port-au-Prince, which is widely known to be controlled by two local gangs. The independent nonprofit was founded by an Oklahoma couple, David and Alicia Lloyd, in 2000.

The attack occurred Thursday, after two different groups of gangs descended on the organizations compound, attacked employees and stole the organizations vehicles.

The victims were the founders son, David Lloyd III, 23, known as Davy; his wife, Natalie Lloyd, 21; and the organizations Haitian director, Jude Montis, 45, the group said. Ms. Lloyd is the daughter of a state representative in Missouri, Ben Baker.
Six decades ago, when Singapore was emerging as an independent nation, three out of four residents lived in overcrowded and filthy slums. The ramshackle houses had tin walls and were known as squatters.

Today, Singapore is a wealthy, modern city where roughly half of its 6 million people live in well-constructed high-rise apartments that were built by the government. These subsidized apartments are typically bright and airy, and defy most perceptions of public housing projects. Most are effectively owned by their occupants, a testament to their affordability.

But over the past 15 years, prices in the secondary market have soared 80 percent. As of early May, 54 of these apartments have sold for more than 1.35 million Singaporean dollars, or $1 million. They are sought after because they are spacious, in good locations, and are still cheaper than private condominiums of a similar size.

While these million-dollar apartments represent a tiny fraction of all transactions, they have nonetheless captured the imaginations of many Singaporeans and amplified worries about the affordability of housing in one of the worlds most expensive cities. Some residents are also anxious that the values of their apartments will drop because the units are sold on a 99-year lease and eventually have to be returned to the government.
Ukraine has begun releasing prisoners to serve in its army, part of a wider effort to rebuild a military that has been depleted by more than two years of war and is strained by relentless Russian assaults.

Denys Maliuska, Ukraines justice minister, said in an interview on Friday that nearly 350 prisoners had already been freed under a law enacted last week that allows convicts to serve in the army in exchange for the possibility of parole at the end of their service.

The countrys courts must approve each prisoners bid to enlist, and Mr. Maliuska said that the judiciary was already considering most of the 4,300 applications submitted so far. Up to 20,000 such applicants, including people who were in pretrial detention, could be recruited to join the hundreds of thousands of soldiers already serving in Ukraines military, he said.

The policy echoes a practice widely used by Russia to bolster its forces, but differs in some ways. Russias program is open to prisoners convicted of violent crimes, while the Ukrainian law does not extend to people convicted of two or more murders, rape or other serious offenses.
News Analysis

In 2011, a former Israeli prime minister, Ehud Barak, warned that Israel faced a diplomatic-political tsunami of censure if its conflict with the Palestinians went unresolved, as peace talks faltered and revolution spread across the Middle East.

To Israeli foreign policy analysts, that tsunami has never seemed closer.

On Friday, the International Court of Justice, an arm of the United Nations, ordered Israel to suspend its military campaign in Rafah in southern Gaza, adding to a growing list of diplomatic and legal moves against Israel that have undermined its international standing.

The ruling came just days after prosecutors at the International Criminal Court, another international tribunal, called for the arrest of Israels prime minister and defense minister, a move that was supported by some longstanding partners of Israel, including France.

The order came the same week that three European countries took the coordinated step of recognizing Palestine as a state. It also followed widespread university campus protests in the United States against Israels campaign in Gaza, as well as decisions by Turkey to suspend trade with Israel and by Belize, Bolivia and Colombia to break diplomatic ties with Israel.

This is not North Korea or Belarus or Myanmar levels of isolation  but it is isolation, said Alon Pinkas, Israels former consul general in New York. It creates a tremendous sense of pressure.

The latest move by the International Court of Justice may not have immediate practical effects: Under the terms of the order, Israel has a month to show how it has complied with its instructions. Even if Israel ignores the order, the I.C.J. has no means of enforcing it. In theory, the United Nations Security Council can issue a resolution on the matter, but the United States, Israels most powerful ally, has a permanent seat on the council, enabling it to veto any measure against Israel.

But, put together, the moves against Israel show not only the ebbing of Israels international reputation but also the dwindling of American influence, said Itamar Rabinovich, Israels former ambassador to Washington, as the United States is increasingly unable to prevent American allies and international institutions from targeting its main partner in the Middle East.

There is a change in the rules of the international politics, Mr. Rabinovich said.

The rest of the world is on the way toward overcoming the U.S., Mr. Rabinovich said, adding, They are saying, We cannot beat you in the U.N. but we now have the two international courts and we will shift to those places where you have no control.

Against that backdrop, the United States and other steadfast allies of Israel, like Germany, have adopted a more critical tone against the Israeli government, even as they try to defend it against foreign condemnation.

In the second week of the war, President Biden flew to Israel with a clear message: You are not alone. But in recent months, he has expressed increasing concern about Israels counterattack in Gaza, calling its strategy a mistake and some of its actions outrageous.

He also paused a shipment of bombs to Israel, signaling his opposition to Israels plans to invade the urban core of Rafah.

Germanys position has shifted subtly, too, with Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, asking during a visit to Tel Aviv in March, No matter how important the goal, can it justify such terribly high costs?

Still, Israel may feel able to continue the war as long as the United States maintains most of its financial and military aid. In April, Congress voted to provide Israel with another $15 billion in military aid, highlighting that Washington broadly continues to act in Israels favor even as some American leaders express verbal reservations.

Mr. Biden will need to weigh any further moves against Israel with the political cost. While a stronger stance could boost him in the eyes of his left-leaning base, it could also allow Republicans to present themselves as better allies of Israel. Speaker Mike Johnson has been signaling for weeks that he intends to invite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak before Congress.

Within Israel, however, the moves against its government could bolster Mr. Netanyahu, analysts said. Days after ministers in his government spoke out against Mr. Netanyahus leadership, the court decisions have prompted those same ministers to close ranks and show a united front.

The rebukes from foreign governments and institutions also provide Mr. Netanyahu with another chance to present himself as Israels defender, shoring up his ebbing domestic support, Mr. Pinkas, the former diplomat, said.

It plays into his narrative that the world is against us and Im standing tall, he said.

Still, Mr. Netanyahus critics said that Israels standing would be higher had he not squandered the outpouring of good will for Israelis that followed the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7.

Opposition to Israels war conduct has been partly spurred by contentious comments by government ministers, who have called for Israel to maintain permanent control over Gaza or even to drop an atomic bomb on the territory. Israels security services have also often failed to prevent Israeli civilians from obstructing aid convoys and ransacking their cargo.

Yair Lapid, the leader of Israels opposition, criticized the court ruling, noting, Israel was the one that was brutally attacked from Gaza and was forced to defend itself against a horrific terrorist organization. But he also said that the ruling could have been averted if a sane and professional government would have prevented insane statements by ministers, stopped criminals who torch aid trucks and performed quiet and effective political work.

Israels isolation has extended to the cultural and academic worlds, where decades-old calls to boycott Israeli artists and universities have gathered momentum.

In recent months, universities in countries including Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia and Spain have announced that they have cut ties with Israeli counterparts or are considering doing so.

We want to give a clear message that the warfare that the State of Israel is now carrying out in Gaza is unacceptable, and undermines the democratic foundation on which all universities must build, the University of Southeastern Norway said in a statement in February after terminating its exchange programs with two Israeli colleges.

Thousands of artists signed an open letter in February calling for the organizers of the Venice Biennale, one of the art worlds most important festivals, to bar Israel from participating in this years gathering.

Though the festival ignored the petition, the Israeli team behind the countrys entry chose to close its display to the public until a cease-fire was reached. But that failed to quell the opposition to their presence, and more than 100 protesters  some of them artists involved in the Biennale  marched through the festival site in April, chanting Viva Palestina.

Johnatan Reiss contributed reporting from Tel Aviv and Jonathan Rosen from Jerusalem.
Israeli forces massed at the entrance to a major hospital in the northern Gaza Strip on Friday, trapping more than a dozen medical personnel inside and all but putting one of the last functioning hospitals out of operation, according to a doctor and Palestinian news media.

For days, the Israeli military has bombarded the area around Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, near the northernmost edge of the territory. Its advance with tanks toward the northern entrances cut off access to the hospital, according to Dr. Eid Sabbah, the head of nursing at the hospital.

Now it is considered practically, because it is besieged, not operational, said Dr. Sabbah, who had been at the hospital on Thursday. Many patients were receiving kidney dialysis on Thursday, he said, but they also left before the military cut off access. The military has reached the entrances, he said.

The blockade of Kamal Adwan came two days after the Israeli military ordered patients and staff at Al Awda Hospital near Jabaliya, another major medical center in northern Gaza, to evacuate on Wednesday and then raided the complex. About 30 people remained there, including medical staff and patients in critical condition who could not be transferred. Israeli forces destroyed doors and damaged equipment, Gazan officials said.

The Israeli military has repeatedly besieged and assaulted Gazas hospitals, contending that Hamas, the armed group that led the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, uses them as shields, with its fighters operating within the hospitals and from tunnels beneath them. Hamas and hospital administrators have denied the claims.

The Israeli military has taken journalists on tours of one hospital it raided and provided documents it says prove its claims about Hamas and hospitals. But there has been no independent verification of the claims.
Israeli forces have been pressing on in Rafah over the past 24 hours, destroying weapons storage facilities, as well as tunnel shafts, the Israeli military said in a statement on Friday. Hamas released a constant stream of updates on its Telegram channel claiming that its armed wing was targeting Israeli troops with mortars and explosive devices in Rafah. Israel said on Thursday that it had battled deeper into the city in what it maintains is a limited operation against Hamas battalions.

Some of the aid that entered Gaza through the U.S.-built temporary pier has been distributed after days of delays, a World Food Program spokesperson said on Thursday. On Tuesday, the Pentagon said that none of the aid delivered through the pier had made it into the hands of Palestinians facing extreme hunger. Three days earlier, the World Food Program halted distribution of the aid after hungry crowds looted several of its trucks.

Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen warned Israel on Thursday against cutting off ties between Palestinian and Israeli banks, arguing that such a move would further destabilize the economy of the West Bank when Palestinians have already been facing dire economic conditions. Ms. Yellen and other top economic officials from the Group of 7 nations are expected to discuss the matter and the humanitarian situation in Gaza during their summit in Stresa, Italy, over the next few days.
Sand, Sea and Soul:

These Architects Follow Nature

IN 1980s SAGAPONACK, a village in the Hamptons, new houses were awash in shingles and classical columns, to the dismay of the architect Fred Stelle.

It was raging postmodernism, he said, still sounding bewildered. He took modest architectural jobs expanding old houses with contemporary extensions and bided his time. Finally in 2001, he said, a Manhattan creative director requested a fully modern 2,500-square-foot new house.

Then came one client after another. Some are famous like Calvin Klein, Aerin Lauder and Michael Kors, sprinkling stardust on a firm that is housed in a converted potato barn in Bridgehampton.

As the business expanded, Mr. Stelle added three partners, Viola Rouhani, Michael Lomont and Eleanor Donnelly. Their firm, Stelle Lomont Rouhani Architects, quietly became known for a brand of beach modernism that sits lightly in nature, with million-dollar water views of sea grass and open skies.

This East Hampton home overlooking the Three Mile Harbor is one of the creations by Stelle Lomont Rouhani Architects. This place to relax in solitude sits near one of the houses designed by Stelle Lomont Rouhani Architects.

The houses grew, along with the business. Sometimes they got big, said Mr. Stelle, 77, recalling one with 30,000 square feet.

Up and down the Eastern Seaboard, where the pleasures of a sunny day can dissolve into a roiling superstorm in the course of an afternoon, a confluence of laws and constraints point away from traditional architecture. Flood maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency dictate construction, low-lying structures must sit atop steel posts to let rushing water surge safely underneath, and local height restrictions leave scant room for an attic, let alone a sloped roof.

A FLAT ROOF maximizes living space below and can host a 13-kilowatt solar array, planters thick with sedum or a mahogany sun deck. Atop a 4,900-square-foot house on Mecox Bay  with interiors by the designer Shawn Henderson  the partners gave a Manhattan real estate executive and his wife all three.

ON A SPIT OF LAND between the ocean and a pond, gossamer floor-to-ceiling white curtains by the interior designer Julie Hillman billow at open Fleetwood sliding doors, in high-performance glass crystalline rather than tinted like very dark sunglasses, Mr. Lomont, 58, said.

MY HOUSES ARE ALL GLASS, WITH WATER VISTAS TO FEED YOUR SOUL, said Deborra-Lee Furness Jackman, the Australian actress.



She worked with the firm for more than six years to completely replace an unremarkable two-story tear-down in the East Hampton woods. She also acquired and remade a modest midcentury house next door. That house is now stained black, its lot folded into her waterfront compound.



She requested cozy elegance, whimsy, and the feeling of a museum gallery in tune with her artistic aspirations. I walk into any space, and I start creating, she said. Her estranged husband, Hugh Jackman, attended the design meetings, but this was my passion piece, she said.

Ms. Furness Jackman admits that she is not good at compromise, but she listened whenever the architects and the designers said That wont work. An early version of the layout had two stories, but one day Mr. Stelle lopped off the top to produce an unexpectedly elegant single-story pavilion at ground level, above a tall walkout basement with a screening room, an art studio and the garage. Ms. Rouhani, 54, said she developed the plan to incorporate this idea of drama casual enough for family life.



A visitor might nominate the 15-foot asymmetrical pedestal dining table that Ms. Donnelly modeled to scale in Plasticine, and then carved full-size in blue foam.



After 18 months of development, the massive bleached walnut table, with a steel interior structure reinforcing its 11-foot cantilever, arrived by crane at one end of the sprawling great room, on the main level, and got welded into the floor beams. Design is my passion, Ms. Furness Jackman said, and cantilever is my favorite word.

AT A PROPERTY IN WATER MILL, Ms. Rouhani started from scratch and fortified a new design with disastrous weather in mind. Concerned that a beach cottage that once belonged to Christie Brinkley would not survive another storm like Hurricane Sandy, the architects shifted the replacement house back from the ocean as a further precaution, and LaGuardia Design Group restored the dunes.



When new owners bought the property for $11.7 million in 2017, they also tapped Stelle Lomont Rouhani and got a free-standing garage topped with a pool house. In charge of the interiors, Ms. Donnelly, 51, oversaw the painting of the walls. They are white, though the decor pops with pink and orange accessories. Theres no rainbow of fruit flavors in our architectural palette, Ms. Donnelly said, though she quickly added that color was possible at request.
- 13 - 47. In light of the considerations set out above, and taking account of the provisional measures indicated in its Orders of 26 January 2024 and 28 March 2024, the Court finds that the current situation arising from Israel's military offensive in Rafah entails a further risk of irreparable prejudice to the plausible rights claimed by South Africa and that there is urgency, in the sense that there exists a real and imminent risk that such prejudice will be caused before the Court gives its final decision. III. CONCLUSION AND MEASURES TO BE ADOPTED 48. The Court concludes, on the basis of the above considerations, that the circumstances of the case require it to modify its decision set out in its Order of 28 March 2024. 49. The Court recalls that, in accordance with Article 75, paragraph 2, of its Rules, when a request for the indication of provisional measures has been made, it has the power under its Statute to indicate measures that are, in whole or in part, other than those requested. In the present case, having considered the terms of the provisional measures requested by South Africa and the circumstances of the case, the Court finds that the measures to be indicated need not be identical to those requested. 50. The Court considers that, in conformity with its obligations under the Genocide Convention, Israel must immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part. 51. The Court recalls that, in its Order of 26 January 2024, it ordered Israel, inter alia, to "take effective measures to prevent the destruction and ensure the preservation of evidence related to allegations of acts within the scope of Article II and Article III of [the Genocide Convention]" (see paragraph 5 above). In the present circumstances, the Court is also of the view that, in order to preserve evidence related to allegations of acts falling within the scope of Article II and Article III of the Genocide Convention, Israel must take effective measures to ensure the unimpeded access to the Gaza Strip of any commission of inquiry, fact-finding mission or other investigative body mandated by competent organs of the United Nations to investigate allegations of genocide. 52. The Court also considers that the catastrophic situation in Gaza confirms the need for the immediate and effective implementation of the measures indicated in its Orders of 26 January 2024 and 28 March 2024, which are applicable throughout the Gaza Strip, including in Rafah. In these circumstances, the Court finds it necessary to reaffirm the measures indicated in those Orders. In so doing, the Court wishes to emphasize that the measure indicated in paragraph 51 (2) (a) of its Order of 28 March 2024, requiring the unhindered provision at scale by all concerned of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance, necessitates that the Respondent maintain open land crossing points, and in particular the Rafah crossing. 53. In view of the specific provisional measures it has decided to indicate, the Court considers that Israel must submit a report to the Court on all measures taken to give effect to this Order, within one month as from the date of this Order. The report so provided will then be communicated to South Africa, which shall be given the opportunity to submit to the Court its comments thereon.
Trumps Pattern of Sowing Election Doubt Intensifies in 2024

Former President Donald J. Trump has baselessly and publicly cast doubt about the fairness of the 2024 election about once a day, on average, since he announced his candidacy for president, according to an analysis by The New York Times.

Though the tactic is familiar  Mr. Trump raised the specter of a rigged election in the 2016 and 2020 cycles, too  his attempts to undermine the 2024 contest are a significant escalation.

A line chart shows the number of times Donald J. Trump cast doubt on the fairness or integrity of the election during the 2016, 2020, and 2024 election cycles. The line for 2024 shows that Trump started casting doubt months earlier during this election cycle and has made hundreds more statements than in past elections. Three videos on the chart show early instances of Trump casting doubt, in 2016, 2019 and 2022. Mr. Trump first raised questions about the 2016 election in August of that year, about 100 days before the election. Aug. 21, 2016 He did so earlier  and more frequently  before the 2020 election. June 26, 2019 But in the 2024 cycle, the falsehoods have been baked in since Mr. Trump announced his candidacy, almost two years before Election Day. They show no signs of subsiding. Nov. 18, 2022

Mr. Trumps refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election had historic consequences. The so-called Big Lie  Mr. Trumps false claim that the election was stolen from him  led to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the United States Capitol and two of four criminal indictments against Mr. Trump, as well as his second impeachment.

But Mr. Trump had planted seeds of doubt among his followers long before Election Day, essentially setting up a no-lose future for himself: Either he would prevail, or the election would be rigged.

He has never given up that framing, which no evidence supports, even well after the end of his presidency. And as he seeks to return to the White House, the same claim has become the backbone of his campaign.

Long before announcing his candidacy, Mr. Trump and his supporters had been falsely claiming that President Biden was weaponizing the Justice Department to target him. But it took until March of last year for Mr. Trump to settle on a new accusation: that the multiple legal challenges related to Mr. Trumps business and political activities constituted a new way of cheating in order to interfere in the 2024 election. He has made versions of that accusation more than 350 times.

This is a rigged deal, just as the 2020 election was rigged, and we cant let them get away with it, Mr. Trump said on Nov. 18, 2022, three days after announcing his 2024 candidacy. His comments were in response to Attorney General Merrick B. Garlands appointment of a special counsel to supervise the Justice Departments criminal investigations related to the events leading up to the Jan. 6 riot and Mr. Trumps decision to keep classified documents at his Florida resort.

By last summer, Mr. Trump had honed the language and made it a staple of his stump speech: They rigged the presidential election of 2020, and were not going to allow them to rig the presidential election of 2024.

The Times has documented more than 500 campaign events, social media posts and interviews during the 2024 cycle in which Mr. Trump falsely accused Democrats or others of trying to rig, cheat, steal or otherwise influence the next election  or of having done so in 2020.

Election interference is Trumps choice accusation in 2024 cycle Mentions of rigging or similar words Mentions of election interference or similar words Mentions of both Trial started in hush-money case Trump charged in classified documents case Trump charged in Jan. 6 and Georgia election interference cases Trump charged in Manhattan hush-money case WEEK TRUMP ANNOUNCED 2024 CAMPAIGN LAST WEEK Mentions of rigging or similar words Mentions of election interference or similar words Mentions of both Trump charged in classified documents case Trump charged in Jan. 6 and Georgia election interference cases Trial started in hush-money case Trump charged in Manhattan hush-money case WEEK TRUMP ANNOUNCED 2024 CAMPAIGN LAST WEEK Mentions of rigging or similar words Mentions of election interference or similar words Mentions of both Week Trump announced 2024 campaign Trump charged in Manhattan hush- money case Trump charged in classified documents case Trump charged in Jan. 6 and Georgia election interference cases Trial started in hush-money case Last week

Mr. Trump has adapted the specifics of his accusations with each of the three election cycles. But in each case, his pattern of discourse has followed the same contours. He sows doubt about the legitimacy of the election, and then begins to capitalize on that doubt by alluding to not necessarily accepting the election results  unless, of course, he wins.

This rhetorical strategy  heads, I win; tails, you cheated  is a beloved one for Mr. Trump that predates even his time as a presidential candidate. He called the Emmy Awards a con game after his television show The Apprentice failed to win in 2004 and 2005. And before he officially became the Republican presidential nominee in 2016, he began to float the possibility that the primary contest was, as he said, rigged and boss controlled.

By May of that year, Mr. Trump spoke plainly about why he had stashed the argument away. Youve been hearing me say its a rigged system, he said, but now I dont say it anymore because I won.

Late that summer, with his sights set on the November general election, Mr. Trump tested out a new line, contending that the media was rigging the election in favor of Hillary Clinton, the Democratic nominee. His assertions intensified in October after a recording surfaced of him speaking in vulgar terms about women.

I will totally accept the results of this great and historic presidential election  if I win, Mr. Trump said at a rally in 2016, three weeks before Election Day. And though he would end up winning the Electoral College and the presidency, his failure to secure the popular vote led him to form a Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity to prove that rampant voter fraud was to blame.

In December 2019, well into Mr. Trumps re-election campaign, the Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives impeached him, saying he used the levers of government to solicit election assistance from Ukraine in the form of investigations to discredit Mr. Biden. Mr. Trump subsequently said that Democrats were using the impeachment hoax to interfere in the election.

The Covid-19 pandemic gave him a new rallying cry, centered on election integrity: Mail-in ballots were dangerous, fraught with fraud and were being used to steal and rig the election, he said.

About six weeks before Election Day in 2020, Mr. Trump refused to commit to a peaceful transfer of power. We want to make sure that the election is honest, and Im not sure that it can be, Mr. Trump said.

This time, it was half a year before Election Day 2024  and after more than a year of pushing the election interference line about the criminal charges against him and repeatedly warning that Democrats are cheating  that Mr. Trump again placed conditions on his acceptance of election results.

If everythings honest, Ill gladly accept the results, he said in a May 1 interview with The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. If its not, you have to fight for the right of the country.
A 21-year-old Malaysian man recently underwent a cornea transplant after scratching his due to rubbing his eyes excessively for most of his life.

Muhammad Zabidi has suffered from allergies for as long as he can remember. As a child, he would rub his eyes until they turned red, but it wasnt until his teenage years that this became a serious problem. At age 15, he started experiencing blurred vision in his right eye, and things only got worse as time went by. When he finally decided to see a doctor about it, he was told that he had severely scratched his cornea due to the constant eye rubbing and he now needed a new one in order to regain his vision.

Since I was a child, I liked rubbing my eyes because I have allergies. Sometimes I rub my eyes until they turn red, Zabidi said in a viral TikTok. I noticed my vision starting to blur at the age of 15. It got blurrier over time. By the time I was 21, there was already a scar on my cornea.

The young man recently underwent a cornea transplant, a procedure in which his damaged cornea was removed and replaced with a new one. He was put under general anesthesia, so there was no pain, but his recovery time was considerable. Muhammads doctor told him that he would be able to open his eye in a couple of months, but that it will take years to fully recover.

Right now, my condition is stable, but my right eye still cant open. The doctor said it might take 2 months for it to open, and itll be 2 years until I fully recover, Zabidi said.

The 21-year-olds clip went viral in his home country, with most people expressing shock that something as benign as rubbing your eye could lead to a cornea transplant, and others wishing him a speedy recovery.

In case youre worried about your own cornea, make sure you dont set your smartphone display brightness too high, as apparently that can damage the cornea as well.
FGS Global has agreed to provide strategic communications services and counsel to the government of Turks and Caicos Islands.

A written contract has not yet been finalized with the British Oversees Territory located in the tropical Atlantic Ocean.

T&C has been in the news of late due to the arrests of five Americans charged with bringing ammunition into the country, which carries a mandatory minimum 12-year sentence.

Bryan Hagerich, the first American to go on trial, received a suspended 52-week sentence on May 24 and was fined $6,700. He had pleaded guilty to the charge.

FGS has partners Vickie Jordan Adams and Brandon Messina, who also serves as corporate counsel; managing director Ben Waldron, and senior associate Anna Jurew staffing the T&C business.

The team reports to Shonia Thomas-Been, T&Cs permanent secretary.
An award winning restaurant in the Midlands welcomed Hollywood star Will Ferrell this week.

The staff of the Longford town restaurant Vocella's were thrilled to meet Ferrell. "The amazing Will Farrell came to dine with us. What a pinch me moment!"

Ferrell previously came to Longford to search for his family roots and he also proudly wore his Longford jersey on TV.

In his own words: My dad researched that all the Farrells were from Longford so we went there a few years ago. Word got out I was in town and like 500 people showed up to this pub I was at and I ended up drinking at some Irish lawyers house at like two in the morning.

In 2017 on the Late Late Show it was his attire that captured the nation's imagination - at least around the Longford direction anyway.

The native of California was sporting the blue and gold of Longford GAA on the Friday night for his big appearance on RTE's primetime show. While being interviewed he showed the colours of the O'Farrell county, which he wore with pride.




"If the prices registered two days ago remain unchanged, projections suggest that mining exports will near US$47 billion this year," he said at the 15th International Mining Meeting - Symposium organized by the National Society of Mining, Oil, and Energy (SNMPE).



Thus, the forecasts issued at the beginning of 2024 would be revised upwards.

The BCR had projected that mining shipments would reach US$40.541 billion by the end of 2024.

The latest figure means a 15% increase in BCR's projections for mining exports this year.

Greater demand

On the other hand, Velarde explained that the use of AI is generating greater demand for electric energy.

"The greater demand for copper not only comes from the issue of substitution with renewable energies but also from the use of new technologies that increases electric energy consumption. It is a factor that was not being considered in the provisions five years ago," he indicated.

Velarde commented that this shift will provide significant boost to metals such as copper.





(END) SDD/MVB
An effort to channel $2 million into the state budget for a tool that could enable candidates to verify their election results ballot by ballot is being spearheaded by Arizona state Sen. Ken Bennett. "[G]ranting access to digital ballot images and voting records would head off frivolous challenges," he said.

Recall Arizona's elaborate recounts in 2020 to ascertain the true presidential victor. The process was costly and time-consuming, with exemplary bipartisan cooperation.

Bennett first introduced the plan in a senate bill that failed to pass two years in a row, so his latest route is a budget measure proposing the expenditure.

Unfortunately it isn't likely that the measure will apply in this year's elections.

--Thanks to John Roberts Brakey, head of AUDITUSA, for alerting me to this landmark development.
Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"Rob Kall shows us that the high-tech information revolution set the stage for a political and social evolution, the connectivity of which has the capacity to transform everything, everywhere. We have only to say 'yes' to tap [into] the power of this interconnection, participating in it from where we stand."



Dennis Kucinich, former U.S. Representative (D-OH) and 2004 and 2008 Democratic presidential primary candidate
"Thank you for your question. The website has been updated with more recent information that includes the 2022-23 school year. Additional updates will be posted periodically."



-- LAUSD Charter School Division



Photo by Luis Villasmil on Unsplash

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Despite assurances by Jose' J. Cole-Gutie'rrez that "approximately every month" the LAUSD would post "the over-allocation reimbursement amounts owed by each charter school," the District had not posted an update since June 30, 2023. At that time records showed these publicly funded private schools owed the public school students of Los Angeles $3,708,006.

On May 6, 2024, the Charter School Division finally published an update to this data on their website. According to this spreadsheet, as of September 30, 2023, Los Angeles Charter Schools had paid $1,991,105 for taking more space than they were entitled to under PROP-39. LAUSD policy specifies that 90% of these funds will go directly to the district schools that were forced to give up more space than was required by law. With Superintendent Carvalho attempting to reduce school funding next year, this money could be a lifesaver for programs that provide "optional services," like having a full-time attendance counselor at a school.

Even with these payments, charter schools owe $148,845 more than they did in the June update. This is due to the $2,139,950 accessed for the 2022-23 school year during the period. This is in addition to the $87,712 that had been billed before the previous update. The total amount billed for last school year was $2,222,662.

According to the letters sent to the schools subject to over-allocation fees on August 11, 2023, payment was due within 30 days of delivery. As of September 30, of the 19 charter schools that were invoiced for over-estimating their enrollment by more than 10% and/or 25 students, five still had not paid their bills:

The most concerning of these is the New Horizons Charter Academy as its failure to pay on time adds to its balance that was already past due. The $258,693 shown by the LAUSD as owed by this charter school to the students of Los Angeles does not include the $1,082,500 that Cole-Gutie'rrez removed from their bill in 2022. This was part of a $7,678,022 giveaway to charter schools that was never explained to the public or, according to Scott Schmerelson, the elected school board. This is what happens when you put a former staff member of the California Charter School Association (CCSA) in charge of regulating these schools.

According to LAUSD Bureaucrats, New Horizons is one of 20 charter schools that are paying off debt incurred between 2015 and 2021 in installments. While the terms of these payment plans have not been publicly disclosed, the amount they are made to pay every month seems to be set at a pace that is excessively slow, especially for a debt that by law was supposed to be paid as soon as it was incurred. For example, Citizens of the World Charter School 5, which over-occupied Shirley Avenue Elementary, only paid $502 between June 30th and September 30, 2023. At this rate, it will take the charter school chain over three and a half years to pay off its $7,205 debt, just for this one school. Other franchises in the chain owe a total of $148,746 and are on a similar payment plan.

It also appears that the LAUSD is not charging interest on the amount that continues to be past due as the total amount that is shown as owed only increased by the fees incurred in the prior school year. The district needs to explain why it is being so generous with these terms when this money could be used to offset some of Superintendent Carvalho's proposed budget cuts.

Since the data provided only covers payments made through September 30, 2023, the public does not know if charter schools are continuing to pay according to the payment plans negotiated with Cole-Gutie'rrez. Schmerelson stated at a candidate forum that he has been told that "everyone is up to date with what they owe," but this seems unlikely given that the fees are due immediately when they are incurred.



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Accounting for payments received and the balance owed by charter schools is something that should be tracked in real-time and there is no reason why this information should not be released to the public regularly. The fact that it took the District until May 6th to release data that was created on September 30 leaves an air of suspicion. Accountability demands that up-to-date information be released immediately so that taxpayers can verify that charter schools are paying the fees mandated under the laws implementing PROP-39.

Carl Petersen is a parent advocate for public education, particularly for students with special education needs, who serves as the Education Chair for the Northridge East Neighborhood Council. As a Green Party candidate in LAUSD's District 2 School Board race, he was endorsed by Network for Public Education (NPE) Action. Dr. Diane Ravitch has called him "a valiant fighter for public schools in Los Angeles." For links to his blogs, please visit www.ChangeTheLAUSD.com. Opinions are his own.
The Genocide is constinuing and now spreading to the West Bank. Israeli forces killed 12 Palestinians in Jenin including several students and a doctor. Children in Gaza ae still being murdered by the apartheid genocidal regime supported by the US and other western (also colonial) governments. Meanwhile the global awakening is happening at an accelerated pace. I feel that as I talk to people of various backgrounds in packed attendance halls now in Aotearoa (aka New Zealand). We must keep working

Our appearances.

For those of you who have not watched our video on our sustainability work, please go to this link (and share) and do support the work.

Maori/Pasifika people support Palestine.

Holocaust survivor tells it like it is.

More evidence of false Israeli narratives.

Yale graduating class supports Palestine.

Comment on International Criminal Court ruling, and Netanyahu invoked another genocidal biblical reference in his response to ICC.

US Citizens receive benefit for serving in the Israeli genocidal army.

Stay Human and keep Palestine alive

Mazin Qumsiyeh

A bedouin in cyberspace, a villager at home Professor, Founder, and (volunteer) Director Palestine Museum of Natural History

Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability Bethlehem University Occupied Palestine

facebook pages Personal Institute

French


Third debate 3267.

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Will Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. participate in either of the two presidential election debates thus far announced by the Joe Biden and Donald Trump campaigns?

How about independents Cornel West and Afroman, Green party candidate Jill Stein, Constitution Party candidate Randall Terry, and whoever receives the Libertarian Party's nomination over Memorial Day weekend?

The answer, at the moment, looks like a soft "no" for RFK Jr. and a hard "no" for everyone else.

Criteria for inclusion in the June 27 debate on CNN include polling a minimum of 15% in at least four "high-quality national polls," and being on the ballot in states disposing of at least the 270 electoral votes required to win the election.

Interestingly, RFK, Jr. is closer to meeting that latter qualification than either Joe Biden or Donald Trump at the moment. He's already on the ballot in six states and has turned in petition signatures for ballot access in five more. The grand total for Biden and Trump combined is zero states. Until and unless they're actually nominated by their respective parties in July and August, well after the CNN debate, they won't be on the ballot anywhere.

Kennedy's campaign director, Amaryllis Fox, tweets that "We anticipate fulfilling all participation criteria" by the June 20th deadline.

But rules (or at least CNN policies) are, it seems, only for the little people. Axios reports that the Trump campaign claims CNN promised them "RFK will not be on that stage," while the Biden campaign says its own criteria require "a 1:1 debate."

Meanwhile, RFK Jr. himself claims -- fairly, it seems to me -- that "Presidents Trump and Biden are colluding to lock America into a head-to-head match-up that 70% say they do not want."

He also claims that they're doing so "because they are afraid I would win." Probably not. RFK Jr. has a slightly better chance of becoming president than you or me, but that's like saying someone who buys two lottery tickets has a better chance of winning the billion-dollar jackpot than the guy who just buys one.

The real fear for Biden and Trump isn't that RFK Jr. might win the election. Rather, it's that small but decisive numbers of voters might abandon one, the other, or both of them for a third option, with an unpredictable impact on which of the two "big players" wins.

Their "collusive" response, right out of The Naked Gun: "Alright, move on, nothing to see here."

While presidential debates may feel like they've been around forever, the first general election debate -- featuring John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon -- occurred only 64 years ago.

After the League of Women Voters refused to rig debates to include only the two "major" party candidates, those "major" parties created the Commission on Presidential Debates in 1987 to do the rigging themselves. Trump and Biden dumped the CPD this year and went to direct personal election-rigging.

Why the "Hey, Rube" collusion? Because the debates are really just circuses, and "major party" carnies always stick together against outsiders -- including the voting public.
We are living in a society that is by and large controlled by people who believe in segregation. We are living in a society that by and large is controlled by a people who believe in racism, and practice segregation and discrimination and racism.

Malcolm X, "Not Just an American Problem"





The headaches seemed to be accompanied by "stars". Colorful ones. Transparent ones. I try to describe them in on these Mercy Housing complaint forms. Pressure. Like someone tightening a scarf around my head. So many "stars" appearing first on my left then on my right. So many, I had to push back from my laptop on my dining room table and find something to distract myself. A walk around a small apartment. A walk to the kitchen for a glass of water.

I hear her. But I don't own a television or stereo. By choice. I have two radios in two rooms tuned to Wisconsin Public Radio, a performance, live from the Met in New York. I turn up the radio only a bit so as not to aggravate my headache but try to drown out the pounding. As expected, as if dealing with an impossible child, the neighbor responds. More pounding.

She is, by her own admission, mentally ill. While many of us seniors aren't opposed to living with those suffering from mental illness, many of us have or might have Alzheimer, we are opposed to the ones who love violence for the sake of violence and don't understand peaceful co-existence with others. We are opposed to those who are hateful. Cruel. Racist.

If she can't take any noise, this should qualify her for assisted living. This is independent living. I do walk, which she has complained about. Without shoes, mind you, in my home. My cats do play and jump. In my home. I pay rent. But if I do, this qualifies me for special treatment: the placement of a ceiling vibrator with thumper under my floor?

When I called the police on May 16th , at 12:00 midnight, I expected them to tell me that she had issues with my laptop. Laptop! I was watching an Amazon Prime Video. I kept falling asleep. But I'm 70-years-old. It's my home. My living room floor. She could go in her bedroom. But no, she must be right under me with the ceiling vibrator. I expected the police to tell me, as they have when she has called them almost three weeks in a row, that they can't hear my laptop. And neither can she!

But they knocked and told me to brace myself. It was my toilet. I shouldn't use the toilet after 10 pm at night.

This according to the white woman below. All three of us laughed. But later that night, I'm awake, wondering, what will she think to do next? There's history of blacks becoming fodder in wars against democracy in America.

The next morning, I submitted the badge numbers of the two officers and information they wrote out on the Mercy Housing complaint form to management. They spoke of some "code" put on the woman, for mental-health intervention, next time. Embarrassing for this manager if, as suspect, the woman is below me to complete a mission to finally, once and for all, send me packing!

Well, well, well... The manager has to speak with the police. I don't know! I don't know! I wasn't there!

I said the police was present, and the police, which happened to be two white men. But I didn't say this, talked with this white woman (but I left out that adjective, too). Well, the manager says, she still doesn't know.

So the police don't matter?

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YEREVAN, MAY 24, ARMENPRESS. Hundreds are feared dead after a massive landslide flattened dozens of homes and buried families alive in a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea (PNG) early on Friday, a resident told Reuters.

More than 50 homes, many with people still asleep inside, were buried when the landslide hit Kaokalam village around 3 a.m., villager Ninga Role told Reuters by phone. The death toll was nearly 300, among them his brother and cousin, he said.

The Australian Broadcasting Corp and other local media reported that more than 100 people had been killed.

The village is in Enga province, about 600 km (370 miles) north of the capital Port Moresby.

Prime Minister James Marape said in a statement he had yet to be fully briefed but that authorities were responding to the disaster.

"We are sending in disaster officials, PNG Defence Force, and the Department of Works and Highways to meet provincial and district officials in Enga and also start relief work, recovery of bodies, and reconstruction of infrastructure," Marape said.
Throughout May, across the nation at Colleges and Universities, commencement addresses are being given by well-known politicians, judges, television or radio personalities, actors, and even Fortune 500 CEOs. These commencement speakers, offering sound advice and inspiration gleaned from personal life experiences, provide advice to graduating seniors as to how they can successfully navigate both their personal lives and professional careers throughout the years ahead.

These speeches, traditionally about 10 minutes in length (up to 2,500 words), will vary widely, and can either be serious or lighthearted, but they should all be authentic, motivational, and informative.

Over the years, as I have stated in previous commencement speech articles that I have penned, I have called for "regular folks" who have overcome obstacles throughout their lives to be invited speakers. One year I put the spotlight on Rhode Island authors, noting that they had valuable insights to share.

This week, I offer my commencement speech, giving the graduating seniors advice, pulling from stoicism, a school of Hellenistic philosophy that thrived in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome.

According to Wikipedia, Stoic philosophers were known for their teaching that "virtue is the only good" for human beings, and that health, wealth, and pleasure, are not good or bad in themselves but have value as "material for virtue to act upon."

To the Graduating Class of 2024"

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty members, proud parents, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2024: Congratulations!

This day marks a very significant milestone in your life's journey. Today you must reflect not just on your past achievements and failures, but also on the philosophies and values that have and will now guide you throughout the journey that lies ahead. Today, I want to share with you some timeless wisdom from the Greek and Roman Stoic philosophers, whose teachings offer invaluable insights into how to navigate the complexities of life with resilience, wisdom, and virtue.

Incorporating Stoicism's timeless principles will provide you with a philosophical framework for confronting life's complexities by pursuing a path of fulfillment and virtue. And what is Stoicism, you say. This philosophy emphasizes resilience in the face of adversity. It also calls for focusing on what is within your control, embracing change and cultivating your virtue and character.

Stoic philosophers also encourage you to align your values to find meaning and purpose in your life, to maintain inner peace and to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around you.

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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)



Killerdrug. This poster says it all (except of course that marijuana is not a killer drug, although alcohol and tobacco products are).

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Note to the reader: The bulk of the text for this column is drawn from Chaps. 2 and 3 of my book Ending the "Drug War;" Solving the Drug Problem . It was published in 2016 by Punto Press Publishing, Brewster, N.Y. (Copyright, 2015). also, this column is very long, even for me.

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In early May of this year, a group of 18 Democratic Senators introduced a bill to legalize marijuana, only a day after news reports revealed that the U.S. government would reclassify cannabis under federal law. Why now? Well, as the Senate Majority leader, Chuck-from-Brooklyn Schumer (yes, he really does go by the name) said: "[W]e're reintroducing the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, legislation that would finally end the federal prohibition of cannabis while prioritizing safety, research, workers' rights and restorative justice." At this time, there is of course a good deal of analysis going on about the pros and cons of this legislation. This column, however, is about how we got here from the time in the 1930's, after the end of Prohibition, when marijuana first caught the serious attention of certain "law enforcers," who, as history has taught us, were looking with something to do with their post-Prohibition law-enforcement time.

As it happens, the bulk of users of what I call the Recreational Mood-Alerting Drugs (the RMADs) are those who use tobacco-products and drinkers of alcohol. Percentage-wise, there are relatively few users of marijuana, heroin, and cocaine. Of course, in recent years, Fentanyl has become a very serious problem and a significant killer, primarily because most fentanyl users don't know how much of the substance they are using, and unfortunately, in a significant number of cases, don't even know that they are using it all. (For further information on overall recreational mood-altering drug use in the mid-20-teens, please see chaps. 2 and 3 of my book Ending the "Drug War:" Solving the Drug Problem . Current information is available from the National Institute of Drug Abuse.)

As we have already seen, users of the illicits form a small minority of the RMAD-using population. For example, in 2011 (see the book), there were an estimated 68 million tobacco-product users, 133 million current drinkers of alcohol, 18 million marijuana users, 1.4 million cocaine users, 600 thousand or so heroin users, (and just under a million users of the hallucinogens). There were also about 6 million users of prescription psycho-active drugs on a non-prescription basis (also an illegal activity but not a target of the "Drug War") as well as 400,000-plus users of methamphetamines (sometimes referred to as the "White Heroin."

Now turning to marijuana, it first came on the national scene as a "Problem" in the 1930s, when certain law enforcers came up with the (artificial) concept of "reefer-madness." It has been at the base of the illegalization of marijuana since that time. The story of the development of the concept and the subsequent illegalization of an RMAD that is harmless for most people who use it is fascinating. Shortly after the end of Prohibition, came the beginnings of the modern "war on marijuana," which was directly linked to the "War on Alcohol" (which of course had ended with the end of Prohibition), then on to the "War on Drugs," e.g., heroin and cocaine. Both of the latter had been around since the end of the 19th century. Interestingly enough heroin was originally developed by German chemists as the "heroic" (non-addicting --- oops!) substitute for the addictive morphine, for use as a pain-killer, while in the 19th century cocaine, at least in small doses, was considered so harmless that it was a component of one of the first very popular "soft" drinks.

During Prohibition (1920-1933) when law-enforcers had plenty to do, marijuana received little attention. After all, since its effects were considered to be pretty mild compared with alcohol, and certainly the ill-effects of cigarette smoking were as suppressed as the tobacco industry could get them to be. (Interestingly enough, the first time the link between cigarette smiling and ill-health was essentially proven was by German scientists, in 1935 (that is during the Nazi Era. And, Hitler then instituted a national anti-smoking campaign, except for members of the armed services).

In the U.S., the first "war on marijuana" began with the newly passed Marihuana [old spelling] Tax Act, in 1937 under the direction of the then head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, Harry Anslinger, a veteran of Prohibition (who just happened to find himself without much to do). The Act was used in part to criminalize the possession and use of marijuana. In its early days Anslinger's "war" received a good deal of publicity in re the "horrible effects" of the drug from a movie called "Reefer Madness." (It happened to have been characterized by some film critics as the "worst film ever made," but that didn't stop the anti-marijuana crusaders [and their crusade had a strong racist tinge to it] from using it widely.) The Marihuana Tax Act was eventually overturned as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, but not until 1969. It was replaced in function by the much broader Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970. It is this Act upon on which the whole national "Drug War," originally developed during the Nixon Administration, was based.

But just before that, another national political figure (that is one who would liked to have been a national political figure) New York's Gov., Nelson Rockefeller, came on the scene. It was about that time that the predictions of national doom, and other alarms like these, turned to the objects of the "Drug War." The identity of the enemy had again changed. Referring to heroin in 1968, Gov. Rock efeller put it this way: "Drug addiction represents a threat akin to war in its capacity to kill, enslave and imperil the nation's future . . . ." (Was he simply bringing forward a warning about tobacco[!] made by the Times in 1885, one wonders?) Already at that time, the otherwise "liberal Republican" Rockefeller, dealing with a party that had booed him off the stage at the 1964 Republican National Convention, was trying to bolster his "tough-on-crime" credentials so as to once more become a contender for the Republican Presidential nomination. Even though he did eventually become President Gerald Ford's Vice-Presidential candidate, after the resignation of Richard Nixon as a result of the Watergate scandal, the tactic didn't work.

However, what did work was truly awful, and its effects linger with us down to this very day. It positions taken like that one quoted above that led to the notorious "Rockefeller Drug Laws." Under that set, imitated by a number of other states, the penalty for selling two ounces (57 g) or more of heroin, morphine, raw or prepared opium, cocaine, or cannabis, or possessing four ounces (113 g) or more of the same substances, was a minimum of 15 years to life in prison, and a maximum of 25 years to life in prison [!]. One aspect of this approach is that it could be construed as an attempt to deal with demand: if one is caught possessing or using a prohibited substance, a long prison term was a prospect. First, this assumes that an addicted person is really going to stop to think about that possible outcome, and second, the alternate approaches that were already underway at the beginning of the National Smoking Cessation Campaign were not even considered.

We are still dealing with the highly negative outcomes of such laws. It must be noted that: a) they have had no noticeable impact on the use of the illicit drugs; b) they penalize possession and use, which until Prohibition's very late stages were not a target and then only indirectly; c) the definition of "drug addiction" as used by Rockefeller and numerous other drug warriors down to the present day has never spread to alcoholic beverages or tobacco products . (Population-wise, they of course are much more deadly than any target of the "Drug War." In 2023, alcohol-related deaths were increasing from previous annual levels, approaching 200,000 per year, while tobacco-product-related deaths, despite a wide variety of anti-smoking-related measures have remained ridiculously (and rarely mentioned) high, approaching 500,000 per year.) But they were not, and never have been in the Republican Party's determination to politically use "getting tough on crime," especially in re the possession and use of certain RMADs, that they had just happened to have arbitrarily defined as criminal. (Why the Repubs. go after certain relatively less-harmful recreational-mood-altering drugs and not others is a discussion to be left to another time, although you can read about it in Chap. 4 of my book.)

But then, in the early 1970s, another national perspective on the most commonly used illicit, a rather different perspective, came from a body called "The National Commission on Marihuana [old spelling] and Drug Abuse." It was created by the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970. The Commission happened to have been chaired by a former Governor of Pennsylvania, Raymond P. Shafer, a Republican (although a member of a now-extinct sub-species of Republican, known as a "moderate.")

It is worthwhile including an extensive quote from the Wikipedia report on the Commission, which, based on my own reading of their reports some time ago, summarizes it well:

"The National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse was created by the Controlled Substances Act to study marijuana abuse in the United States. While the Controlled Substances Act was being drafted in a House committee in 1970, Assistant Secretary of Health Roger O. Egeberg had recommended that marijuana temporarily be placed in Schedule I, the most restrictive category of drugs, pending the Commission's report. On March 22, 1972, the Commission's chairman, Raymond P. Shafer, presented a report to Congress and the public entitled 'Marihuana, A Signal of Misunderstanding,' which favored ending marijuana prohibition and adopting other methods to discourage use.

"The Commission's report acknowledged that, decades earlier, 'the absence of adequate understanding of the effects of the drug' combined with 'lurid accounts of [largely unsubstantiated] "marijuana atrocities" [like "Reefer Madness"]' greatly affected public opinion and labeled the stereotypical user as 'physically aggressive, lacking in self-control, irresponsible, mentally ill and, perhaps most alarming, criminally inclined and dangerous.' However, the Commission found that the drug typically inhibited aggression [emphasis added] 'by pacifying the user" and generally produc[ed] states of drowsiness, lethargy, timidity and passivity.'

"After the Commission's widespread study and analysis, it concluded that 'Looking only at the effects on the individual, there is little proven danger of physical or psychological harm from the experimental or intermittent use of the natural preparations of cannabis. ' [Emphasis added.]

"Specifically, the Commission recommended 'a social control policy seeking to discourage marijuana use, while concentrating primarily on the prevention of heavy and very heavy use.' The report noted that society can provide incentives for certain behavior without prosecuting the unwilling, citing the example that 'the family unit and the institution of marriage are preferred means of group-living and child-rearing in our society. As a society, we are not neutral. We officially encourage matrimony by giving married couples favorable tax treatment; but we do not compel people to get married.'

"The Commission recommended decriminalization of simple possession [emphasis added], finding:

[T]he criminal law is too harsh a tool to apply to personal possession even in the effort to discourage use. It implies an overwhelming indictment of the behavior which we believe is not appropriate. The actual and potential harm of use of the drug is not great enough to justify intrusion by the criminal law into private behavior, a step which our society takes only 'with the greatest reluctance."

"The Commission found that the constitutionality of marijuana prohibition was suspect, and that the executive and legislative branches had a responsibility to obey the Constitution, even in the absence of a court ruling to do so:

"While the judiciary is the governmental institution most directly concerned with the protection of individual liberties, all policy-makers have a responsibility to consider our constitutional heritage when framing public policy. Regardless of whether or not the courts would overturn a prohibition of possession of marijuana for personal use in the home, we are necessarily influenced by the high place traditionally occupied by the value of privacy in our constitutional scheme.

"The Commission also found that 'the use of drugs for pleasure or other non-medical purposes is not inherently irresponsible; alcohol is widely used as an acceptable part of social activities'. . . .

Douglas McVay summarized the Commission's conclusions thusly:

"The commission concluded that marijuana should be decriminalized. This was not interpreted as a license to abuse substances. In fact, the Shafer Commission's overriding concern was reducing substance abuse. According to the report, 'On the basis of our findings, discussed in previous Chapters, we have concluded that society should seek to discourage use, while concentrating its attention on the prevention and treatment of heavy and very heavy use. The Commission feels that the criminalization of possession of marihuana for personal use is socially self-defeating as a means of achieving this objective.' "

How rational, how reasonable, how much based on scientific evidence rather than prejudice and totally politically-motivated policy-making. How similar in many ways (although not all, especially in how the criminal justice system would and would not be used) to the essence of the "Public Health Approach to the Drug Problem," presented in Chapter Five of my book. But we have seen over and over again in the United States how often science does not guide public policy. And, so often politics does . As it happened, during the life of the National Commission, President Richard Nixon's then Attorney General John Mitchell systematically short-circuited its at tempt to "systematically evaluate" the "underlying assumptions" of U.S. drug policy. Mitchell repu diated the work of the Commission even before it was published . Steven Wisotsky summarized Mitchell's policy: "Drugs are bad, enforcement is good, and let's not waste time questioning the matter." After all, politics had to come first.

When the National Commission's Report came out --- a report that came to the conclusion that certainly in comparison with widely used and sold tobacco and alcohol products, marijuana was pretty mild. But, and that's a big BUT, Nixon had already announced the commencement of the "Drug War." Most obviously, it was hardly based in science and epidemiology. Rather, it openly focused on Black "drugs" use. Thus, it quickly became part of Nixon's newly-developed "Southern Strategy," designed to gain for the Republican Party the Southern white racist vote that was looking for a home after the Democratic Party became, in the 1960s, the party of civil and voting rights and the drive to end of Jim Crow for African-Americans. For then, as now, it is thought by the political class that Southern white folks like nothing better than being "Hard on crime," especially when it is aimed at the "inner cities" (and you know who lives there). And there are still people n prison, on very long sentences, who still paying that "War's" price.

The National Commission's Report was summarily shelved, and the "Drug War" was launched. In 1982, ten years after Attorney General Mitch ell's pronouncement, President Ronald Reagan summarized then current Federal drug policy: "[Illegal] drugs are bad and we're going after them." Ten years of failure of the policy, in terms of controlling drug use, had taught the President nothing on that front. But his Administration knew that politically they still had a winner.

And now here we are, over 50 years later, with a "new" Federal health-services-related report, recommending essentially the same policy that the National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse recommended in 1970! It was essentially killed by Republican Politics, at time centered in the Office of the President. One has to wonder if they will try again, and once again succeed, in killing a science-based approach to drug-use and addiction, this time including the two most commonly used, and thus by far the most dangerous, Recreational Mood-Altering Drugs, tobacco and alcohol. I wouldn't hold my breath on that one.
DEAR ABBY: My friend Gene and I have been friends since elementary school. Were now in our 50s. We were inseparable best friends all those years. When we were about 30, I started noticing our friendship seemed to be a one-way street because he made no effort to initiate contact.

Gene was gracious and inviting if I called him, but he never called me. Instead, he focused on friends he could benefit from professionally and withdrew from old friends like me. About 20 years ago, I stopped calling him and decided to move on with other friends who were more congenial and courteous.

You could count on one hand how many times Ive seen or spoken to Gene in the past 10 years, but today I received a graduation invitation from his son who wants a cash gift for his high school graduation. Abby, his son wouldnt know me if I tapped him on the shoulder. To say I was appalled is an understatement.

I feel no obligation to send money to someone I dont know, and even less than that given the way Gene abandoned our decades-long friendship years ago. How can I handle this tactfully without coming across as rude or bitter? -- SHOCKED IN THE BLUEGRASS STATE

DEAR SHOCKED: The polite way to handle it would be to send the young man a congratulatory card, wishing him well.

DEAR ABBY: A very dear relative has just announced her engagement. This will be her third marriage. Are gifts necessary? -- HOPE NOT IN NEBRASKA

DEAR HOPE NOT: If you attend the festivities, you shouldnt come empty-handed. Some sort of gift is necessary. However, if you have generously shelled out for your relatives first two marriages, your third gift need only be something modest you think the couple might enjoy.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
A 25-year-old man pleaded guilty except for insanity to second-degree murder on Thursday for killing a Tigard man he gunned down on the side of a highway in a road-rage encounter two years ago.

Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael A. Caso sentenced Justin Nathaniel McAnulty to the Oregon State Hospital, committing him to lifetime supervision by the Psychiatric Security Review Board.

McAnulty fired nine shots at Dennis Anderson, 45, from the seat of his black BMW 550 on July 13, 2022, after trailing Andersons Subaru Forrester on Oregon 18. Anderson and his partner, Brandy Goldbury, had been headed home from Lincoln City.

Anderson had been trying to get away from McAnulty as both headed east on the highway. McAnulty had driven around Andersons Subaru and passed Anderson and then later waited on the side of the road before pulling out to again follow Anderson closely. Anderson then turned off the highway onto a gravel shoulder, near milepost 15 in Polk County, so Goldsbury could call 911.

McAnulty pulled up parallel to the Subaru and Anderson got out of the car, according to police. Anderson was standing on the shoulder when McAnulty immediately pointed a 9mm handgun at him and fired, police said.

Goldsbury, in the front passenger seat of Andersons car, watched the shooting and narrowly escaped getting struck by bullets, according to police. She told police that the road rage behavior by the BMW driver appeared to occur after Anderson had sprayed his windshield wiper fluid, which may have blown back onto the black car behind them.

I watched you holding the weapon with both hands and pulling the trigger over and over again. I will never unsee that, she told McAnulty in court. These actions are not of a man but a monster.

She called McAnulty a coward for hiding your misplaced rage behind a deadly piece of steel.

The prosecutor, Senior Assistant Attorney General Tobias Tingleaf, read a statement in court written by Dennis Andersons parents.

David and Karen Anderson described how their family has been shattered by their sons death.

When they got the devastating phone call from police at their Massachusetts home informing them of their sons death, We were in shock. We were devastated. We were helpless, they wrote.

They said they are still in shock and cannot believe that Dennis was shot to death ultimately for turning on his windshield washer on his car on the day out with Brandy. We are angry that Dennis did not matter to Justin McAnulty because he mattered to all of us. Were irreparably broken.

They described their son as a dedicated family man and father of two daughters. He was born and raised in Massachusetts and was a passionate fan of the New England Patriots football team. He operated a small soap-making business with Goldsbury and was an avid fisherman. He would talk by phone to his parents two to three times a week, they said.

State Police Detective Brian Eskridge led the investigation. Working with Grand Ronde tribal police, the Polk County Sheriffs Office, Salem police and other local police agencies, Eskridge used a description of the gunmans car to track the BMWs driving path and identify the make, model and license plate number of the car and its driver.

McAnulty, of Beaverton, tried to conceal the crime by selling the BMW, crafting a bogus alibi , changing his appearance and hiding the gun used. The gun was later found in a community greenspace about a block from McAnultys parents house in a plastic sealable bag with a fully loaded magazine and a round in the chamber, according to court records. When he was arrested days later, McAnulty had a loaded rifle in his bed next to him, according to the prosecutor.

Tingleaf told the judge that police investigators are somewhat frustrated with the outcome of the case, but he said mental health evaluations by mental health experts from both the defense and the state showed McAnulty was suffering from a mental illness and in a psychotic episode at the time.

McAnulty was an Oregon State University engineering student whose life went completely awry in his early 20s with the onset of an unspecified schizophrenia spectrum diagnosis, according to his lawyer, Benjamin Kim.

Words cant describe how sorry I am. I didnt know what was going on in my head, McAnulty said in court. Im so sorry. Im still trying to figure out why I did what I did.

The judge accepted the guilty except for insanity plea and found McAnulty, because of his mental disorder, either lacked substantial capacity to appreciate that his actions were criminal or to adhere to the law.

I have said many times that the justice system in this country is named incorrectly because there is no justice in a case like this. Justice would be having Mr. Anderson back, and the court cannot do that, Caso said. And so I apologize to the family members, the victims in this case, because there is no justice for you.

Later Thursday, Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton issued a statement, expressing his displeasure with the outcome of the case. He urged the states Psychiatric Security Review Board to not allow McAnultys release from the state psychiatric hospital to protect the community.'

Although both the states and defenses experts reached the same conclusion about the defendants mental status at the time the shooting, todays outcome is extremely disappointing, Felton said. While McAnultys guilty plea at long last takes responsibility for killing Mr. Anderson, I strongly believe that Mr. McAnulty presents a risk to community safety and should be securely confined for the remainder of his life.

Felton said he asked a lawyer from the Oregon Department of Justice to handle McAnultys prosecution due to vacancies among his staff at the time of McAnultys arrest.

-- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com, follow her on X @maxoregonian, or on LinkedIn.

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Oregons congressional delegation Friday demanded that Colette S. Peters, director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, take swift action to address significant staffing shortages, inadequate medical care and other alarming issues that put staff and inmates at risk in the federal prison in Sheridan.

They shared their concerns in a letter to Peters two days after the U.S. Department of Justices Inspector General Michael Horowitz released a scathing report stemming from an unannounced inspection of the prison in November and December.
A small but well-loved food cart pod near Portland State Universitys Millar Library will remain open after the school struck a deal with its cart tenants to have them pay for a state-mandated upgrade to the property.

The pod was scheduled to close in July.

Nong Phimmoungkhoun, owner of the Lao food cart Khao Niew, said the reprieve was made possible through the support of Portland State University students and staff, who advocated for the pod to stay through an online fundraiser and petition.

I dont know how to express it, because I love this place, Phimmoungkhoun said. We have regulars that we know by name. The love shown by students and staff, its amazing. I wouldnt want to go anywhere else.

Problems at the pod  the term for a cluster of carts with shared seating and other amenities  began last year, when Multnomah County announced it would begin enforcing state-wide rules around wastewater disposal. Previously, many pods, especially older pods, didnt offer direct sewer access for dumping wastewater.

Instead, it was common practice for individual carts to dump the water they used each day for washing hands, dishes, pots and more, also called gray water, into shared 250- or 500-gallon plastic receptacles called cubes, which were then pumped out regularly by a disposal company. But in January of 2023, the county began enforcing state rules barring those cubes, threatening pods that continued using them with fines.

Pod owners obtained estimates in the low five figures  and much higher  to install sewer lines with grease traps where carts could dump their gray water directly each day. For many landlords, that juice wasnt worth the squeeze, and several prominent carts including The Marble Queen, Meliora Pasta, Papi Sals and The Upside Down were forced to close.

According to a school spokesperson, upgrades to the Millar Library pod will cost around $40,000, paid for through rent increases. Construction will begin this summer. As of Friday, the pods three carts  Home Taste, Khao Niew and Sheesh Shawarma  had not yet been told how much their rent would increase.

The threat of closure isnt the only disruption the pod has faced this year. In late April, pro-Palestinian protesters occupied the Millar Library for several days, leading to a multi-day shutdown at the pod. Additionally, the university removed picnic tables, benches and trash cans they feared would be used as weapons or barricades by the protestors. Those have yet to be returned.

Yet for Faisal Obeidi, the 22-year-old Portland State University student and Sheesh Shawarma owner, keeping his cart at the Millar Library pod was about more than just a small business. Its about the larger school community.

We take care of everyone at Sheesh, Obeidi said. Its a staple of the community at night, when people come by, they can get some free tea. Everyone stops at Sheesh.

Find the Millar Library food carts at 979 S.W. Harrison St.

Further reading:

Khao Niew is one of Portlands best new food carts of 2022

Portland food carts sound alarm over new wastewater rules: A lot of carts are going to close

 Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com

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Voters rejected a local option levy for Bend-La Pine schools in Tuesdays primary, leaving central Oregons largest district to decide how to follow through on warnings that it would be forced to cut staff and increase class sizes if voters said no.

The districts budget will shrink by 3% next year, which includes trimming 58 positions through resignations and retirements. The districts levy would have filled in gaps from the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds this September. In explaining the levy before the primary, the district also said it would be forced to cut 120 positions in the 2025-26 school year if the levy didnt pass.

It was a clear message from our community that this ask at this moment in time isnt the right ask, said Superintendent Steve Cook.

The levy, which would have charged $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property value for five years, would have raised $21 million in the first year. Bend-La Pine Schools calculated it would have cost the owner of a typical home, assessed at $239,000, $239 a year. The levy would have been used to hire staff, expand academic classes and hire counselors and educational assistants for student support.

District officials say they will examine what went wrong: whether the districts priorities resonated with voters, whether the amount was too much, whether the timing was wrong and whether the levy was communicated effectively.

The polling the district commissioned demonstrated support, and it will be important to figure out the differences between the poll results and the actual election outcome, Cook said.

We heard loud and clear that this is not the right time, but I think its important to note that 42% of our community did believe this was the right time, and Im grateful for that support, and Im grateful for our staff, said Cook. I do recognize that 57% of the voters said this is not OK with us, and so we heard that message as well.

The district will now work on the budget for the 2024-25 school year, said Cook. The school board will decide whether it is interested in pursuing the levy at another time, though Cook said no discussion has happened on whether it will be on the November ballot.

Bend-La Pines budget for 2024-25 did not take the levy into account and does not need to be reworked, he said.

The reduction for next year includes a 10% decrease in overall discretionary spending for schools.

The 58 positions will be cut proportionally across all job categories for next year, including support staff, educators, administrators and other staff. Cut positions are determined based on where the district has flexibility.

Principals will significantly feel both that, and well have classrooms that will feel that, and principals will feel that reduction in discretionary spending too, said Cook.

Funding is budgeted and held in reserve for positions, even if no one is in the role. Therefore, some of the 58 positions that will be cut may not have assigned staff.

Bend-La Pine Schools is also gearing up for the legislative session next spring to discuss whether the Legislature adequately funds education.

I do not believe we are experiencing an adequate funding level, said Cook. Were truly getting in line and saying we believe that theres more dollars needed and required to meet the expectation of whats coming and happening in our schools.

Cook said a positive start would be to agree on the actual cost to run schools today, since there is disagreement throughout the state.

Its a very complex math problem, but right now demonstrating the way theyre doing the math and the way were doing the math, theres a gap, he said. That to me is important, and then that feeds into the governors recommended budget, and that feeds into the conversation that happens between the legislators as they determine the budget for the entire state.

Next school year tougher

Im disappointed for the kids of the district, said John Rexford, a former Bend-La Pine administrator and member of the Quality Education Commission, which determines how much the state should spend to deliver a quality education to at least 90% of students.

Voters he spoke to were concerned over not understanding how the funding would be used, Rexford said.

Elections tend to be litmus tests on how districts are doing in the community, and it feels like the communitys got some concerns that theyre expressing through their ballot votes, said Rexford.

Bend Education Association President Sarah Barclay said the union was disappointed the community did not support the levy. Teachers are upset with the increased workload next year and the loss of colleagues and supports.

This was a solution that supported our community and our students, and I wish the community would have come alongside, said Barclay. General sadness that things are going to be harder next year, thats what Ive been hearing from teachers.

With contract negotiations reopening next spring, Barclay said the union plans to wait for more information about the states plans to fund education during the two-year budget period beginning July 2025 to see how that influences bargaining.

Debbie Christian, Oregon School Employees Association president, said the union will continue to inform state leaders about the need for additional funding.

The local option learning levy had the potential to add some additional much-needed support staff around the district, wrote Christian in an email. Without that funding, the leadership of the classified staff will work in partnership with the district administration to find innovative ways to move forward while best serving the needs of our students and staff.

-- Noemi Arellano-Summer, The Bend Bulletin: narellanosummer@bendbulletin.com, 541-383-0325
Wildlife and environment officials have discovered 10 birds covered in oil on the Oregon and Washington coasts since Sunday.

An investigation now spans federal and state agencies, but the oils source remains a mystery. Federal agencies are investigating via aircraft and satellite.

Birds have been found between Lincoln City and Long Beach, Washington. Agencies recovered four oiled birds alive in Oregon, the Coast Guard said in a news release Wednesday.

Responders found two contaminated birds dead and four alive in Washington. Two of the live birds had to be euthanized due to pre-existing injuries in conjunction with their contamination, a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife spokesperson said.

All birds were common murres, primarily aquatic birds that look similar to penguins.

Oil can destroy water-repelling properties in birds feathers, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  exposing them to the harsh elements. If birds swallow oil while grooming themselves, it can also poison them.

The Coast Guard sent two helicopter overflights to patrol the coast but found no additional affected areas. Investigators have sent tar balls  small, dark lumps of oil  found along the coast to a lab for analysis. Tar balls can result from oil spills or ground seeps, cracks on the ocean floor where reservoirs slowly release oil.

Beachgoers should not attempt to handle oiled wildlife if discovered, said Dylan Darling, an Oregon Department of Environmental Quality spokesperson. Untrained human handling could be dangerous for both the animals and humans, he said. Instead, they should call the agencys hotline at 800-222-4737.

-- Andrew Miller covers business news. Reach him at 971-803-2954; amiller@oregonian.com
Multnomah County Commission candidates Meghan Moyer and Vadim Mozyrsky will compete for a second time this fall as the race to represent Portlands west side heads to a runoff.

Near-final results tallied as of Thursday at 5 p.m. showed Moyer with 47% of votes in the five-way race for the District 1 seat, while Mozyrksy, who ran unsuccessfully for Portland City Council in 2022, had 40%.

Moyer would have had to receive over 50% of the vote to win the seat outright. While a small number of ballots have yet to be counted, those votes will not be enough to propel her over the 50% margin, even if they swing heavily in her favor.

Moyer didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Mozyrsky said he was thankful for all the people who supported his campaign.

Either Moyer or Mozyrsky will succeed Commissioner Sharon Meieran, the most outspoken critic of Chair Jessica Vega Pederson on the board, at a time when its politics and policies are expected to shift. This year, four of the five board positions -- all outside the chairs -- were up for grabs.

In the District 2 race, former Portland Mayor Sam Adams is headed to a runoff against homeless advocate Shannon Singleton as his narrow second-place lead over business owner Jessie Burke held firm Thursday. In District 3, Multnomah County Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards coasted to victory to win a full term on the commissioners. In District 4, Gresham City Councilor Vince Jones-Dixon appears to have won, averting a runoff with Corbett small business owner Brian Knotts by about 16 votes out of more than 27,000 cast.

Both Moyer or Mozyrsky vowed to quickly and efficiently address the many issues facing Multnomah County  homelessness, record fentanyl overdose deaths and a lack of mental health resources chief among them.

OREGON ELECTION 2024: Live Results Page | Election Page

Mozyrsky, 51, and Moyer, 44, also agreed that Meierans proposal to lower county staffing requirements for ambulances would be an effective temporary fix to improve response times while they devise a long-term plan.

Also on the ballot were Kevin Fitts, who has long advocated for behavioral health resources in the state, and Multnomah County project manager and business owner Margot Wheeler. Near-final results showed them each with about 5% of the vote.

The race comes at a pivotal time for Multnomah County, as it faces a record number of fentanyl overdoses, struggles to organize its homelessness services and experiences dangerously slow ambulance response times. The county board also faces criticism of its Preschool for All program for its lack of classroom seats available despite its plentiful available funding.

The spring campaigns did not grab much attention, largely because strict voter-enacted campaign contribution limits meant the candidates couldnt raise huge sums.

Moyers work in politics and public policy spans two decades, first as a campaign manager, then a lobbyist for the Service Employees International Union Local 503 and now as the policy director at Disability Rights Oregon. She spearheaded legislation that prohibited shortened school days for students with disabilities and broadened access to Medicaid.

Moyers platform relied heavily on taking better advantage of state and federal resources to bolster county mental health and homelessness services. She had raised far less than Mozyrskys $100,000 plus, at $32,000. But Moyer boasted more support from former and current elected Democrats, including five members of the state Legislature and former Gov. Kate Brown.

The former lobbyist also drew endorsements from Metro councilors and several unions, including AFSCME 75 and SEIU Local 49 and 503, among others.

Mozyrsky, a judge with the Social Security Administration since 2012, had a more Portland-oriented approach to county politics than his leading opponent. He sought to expand shelters for the homeless, expand affordable housing and create a concrete plan for the countys proposed 24/7 detox center.

In her endorsement of Mozyrsky, Meieran said his background as an immigrant and experience as a judge would bring a unique voice to the commission. He also secured endorsements from former county commissioners Loretta Smith, Maria Rojo de Steffey and Diane McKeel, along with Portland Commissioners Mingus Mapps and Rene Gonzalez.

He raised $113,000, including $30,000 he loaned himself. His donors included Columbia Sportswear CEO Tim Boyle, former gubernatorial candidate Betsy Johnson, Nathan Vasquez, the county district attorney candidate, Willamette Women Democrats, real estate developers including Homer Williams, Thomas Brenneke, Greg Goodman and Jordan Schnitzer and unions including construction workers Liuna Local 737 and electricians IBEW Local 48.

After The Oregonian/OregonLive officially declared the race a runoff Thursday evening, Mozyrsky wrote in a statement, Together, we will succeed in expanding shelter options so that no one has to live on the streets, that we hold our government accountable for its spending, that we create new affordable housing, and that our neighborhoods are safe for all. I look forward to building upon the growing coalition of people who want experience and practical solutions on the Multnomah County Commission on the way to victory in November.

The November runoff will likely be a low-key contest as well, as campaign finance restrictions dont allow duplicate donations from contributors.

However, independent expenditure campaigns could play a key role. Rival political groups have signaled they are poised to spend money to advance the candidates chances.

 Austin De Dios covers Multnomah County politics, programs and more. Reach him at 503-319-9744, adedios@oregonian.com or @AustinDeDios.

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Former Portland Mayor Sam Adams will be headed for a Multnomah County Commission runoff against homeless advocate Shannon Singleton as his narrow second-place lead over business owner Jessie Burke held firm Thursday.

Adams, who is attempting his third political comeback in recent years, maintained the slight edge hes held since Tuesday, garnering 24% of ballots cast to Burkes 22%  a difference of 809 votes  in near final returns as of 5 p.m.

Voters are tired of hearing the excuses for why Multnomah County is a mess; they want fundamental changes, more openness, accountability and results, Adams told The Oregonian/OregonLive on Thursday. And they want it now. Thats what I offer, I am a proven change maker.

Singleton, a trained social worker and former head of the Portland-Multnomah County Joint Office of Homeless Services, remained well ahead of her two main rivals in one of the years most closely-watched local races with 46% of the vote, despite more than $200,000 spent against her by an outside political group.

OREGON ELECTION 2024: Live Results Page | Election Page

My vision, priorities and concrete solutions for filling the social safety gap have clearly resonated with the voters, Singleton told The Oregonian/OregonLive on Thursday. They want to see someone who can hit the ground running on day one.

In a statement, Burke conceded her third-place finish.

My hope is the remaining candidates understand the dysfunction within the county and that the time for ideological policies is over, she said. The role of the government is to do work and serve the public  it is not performative identity politics.

The contest for Commission District 2, which spans North and Northeast Portland, pitted Adams and Burke, a pair of moderate, business friendly candidates, against Singleton, an unwavering progressive, as the countys normally low-key elected body  long dominated by left-leaning members  faces increased scrutiny and scorn.

The districts previous elected officeholder, Susheela Jayapal, stepped down last fall in a bid to succeed retiring Democratic U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer in Congress. Jayapal lost that race Tuesday.

Rampant homelessness, public drug use, rising overdose deaths and untreated mental health crises have all thrust Multnomah Countys actions and inaction on these issues into the spotlight.

The countys underspending of Metro homelessness services taxes along with its sluggish rollout of a new drop-off sobering center and dismal ambulance response times have amplified critiques of its urgency and effectiveness.

The trio were also aligned in their support for taking all necessary steps to reduce the countys dangerously slow ambulance response times and stand up a new sobering center as quickly as possible.

Yet when it came to homelessness and public safety  voters top concerns  stark contrasts emerged between Singleton and her leading opponents.

Burke, who opened the Society Hotel in Old Town almost a decade ago, and Adams both favor aggressive sweeps of homeless campers and strict enforcement of Portlands new camping restrictions, a position that could spur legal challenges but has broad public support.

They also want to see more county dollars used to beef up jails, prosecutors and parole officers.

Singleton, who has years of working in the nonprofit sector, remained steadfast in her conviction that none of those approaches will lead to lasting changes on the streets or in neighborhoods or improve the lives of those who need help.

She also became the target of a political action committee bankrolled by Portland business and industry leaders. United for Portland, which endorsed both Adams and Burke, has spent at least $225,000 to fill district mailboxes with multiple acidic fliers linking Singleton to the countys failures on homelessness.

Adams bid for the county commission seat comes after he unsuccessfully ran for Portland City Council in 2020 and departed a high-profile job working for current Mayor Ted Wheeler under a cloud of bitter accusations a year ago.

Prior to joining Wheelers office, Adams spent two decades in Portland City Hall as chief of staff to former mayor Vera Katz, then a city commissioner and ultimately the first openly gay mayor of a major American city.

Adams departed as mayor at the end of his first term, choosing not to run again after a 2009 sex scandal involving an 18-year-old state legislative intern led to two attempted recalls and a state investigation and hampered his time in office.

Prosecutors investigated the young mans claims that the sexual relationship began before he turned 18, which would have been illegal on Adams part. But they found claims by Beau Breedlove not credible and did not bring any charges.

-- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh covers Portland city government and politics, with a focus on accountability and watchdog reporting.

Reach him at 503-294-7632

Email at skavanaugh@oregonian.com

Follow on Twitter @shanedkavanaugh

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YEREVAN, 24 MAY, ARMENPRESS.Bulgaria celebrates the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and of Slavic Literature on May 24.

May 24 commemorates the work of the brothers Constantine (Cyril) (827-869) and Methodius (815-885), Byzantine missionaries born in Salonica, who devised the Glagolitic in AD 855 or 862-863. The Cyrillic, from which the modern Slav nations' alphabets are derived, came 40-50 years later, c. AD 902-912. Like the Roman script, it was adapted by scholars of the Preslav Literary School from the Greek alphabet, borrowing the latter's all 24 characters and adding 24 new ones for specific Slav sounds.

The Slav alphabet was adopted in Bulgaria in AD 886 as a vehicle of enforcing Old Bulgarian as the single national and liturgical language. From Bulgaria, the script spread to other Slav countries and is now used by some 250 million people worldwide in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Serbia, North Macedonia and Croatia. Romania also used the Cyrillic until the late 1870s. The alphabets of some non-Slav languages, like Kazakh, Mongolian, Ossetian, Tatar and Tajik, are also based on the Cyrillic script.

More than a third of the original 48 Cyrillic letters have been dropped in modern Bulgarian, which makes do with a 30-character alphabet (spelling was last reformed in 1945).

As Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007, the Cyrillic became the third official EU alphabet after the Latin and the Greek ones. On May 2, 2013, the European Central Bank put into circulation a new EUR 5 banknote on which, for the first time, the name of the single currency and the abbreviation 'ECB' (European Central Bank) are written in the Cyrillic alphabet.

The day is traditionally marked by paying floral tributes to monuments of the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius and festivities at schools, community centres and libraries.

(This information is being published according to an agreement between Armenpress and BTA.)
In the quiet pastures of Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary in Creswell, a gentle giant named Romeo captures every heart he meets.

At 6 feet 4.5 inches, the 6-year-old Holstein breed claimed the Guinness World Records title as the tallest living steer. Guinness announced Romeos achievement on Wednesday, confirming his 3-inch advantage over the previous record-holder, Tommy.

But Romeos story started when he was 10 days old, fated to become veal at a dairy farm.

Steers, or castrated male bovines, are considered waste products in the dairy industry, sanctuary co-founder Misty Moore said. The sanctuary provided a refuge for Romeo and his brother Milo. The duo has been inseparable ever since, often seen lounging together on sunny days in Creswell.

With open arms and boundless love, we welcomed him into our sanctuary. From the beginning he was a survivor, and we could tell that he was longing for a fulfilled life, Moore told Guinness World Records.

Thursday morning, friends and family gathered at the sanctuary to celebrate the record-breaking steer and to give him his official certificate. Creswell Mayor Dave Stram and City Manager Michelle Amberg attended the event.

Romeo is so much more than just his height, Moore said. Hes got this remarkable story of survival; everybody falls in love with him.

A white stripe that runs down Romeos side earned him the nickname Number One far before he received his award.

Romeos amazing. We knew that all along, but now everybody gets to know that and thats pretty special, Moore said at the ceremony.

After Moore spoke, visitors fed Romeo bananas  one of his favorite snacks  and watched him gobble them up with ease.

Sanctuary co-founder Robert Moore leans toward Romeo.Misty Moore

A younger Romeo on the right standing next to Buster, an Angus, on the left.Misty Moore

Romeos mornings start slow. He is social with his steer buddies  five other rescues at the sanctuary  unless it begins to sprinkle, in which case he spends the rest of his day under a wooden shelter. Then, its time for Romeo to have lunch. Each day, he eats 100 pounds of hay and 15 pounds of grain and drinks a bathtub of water.

It takes money and effort to care for an animal as large as Romeo.

Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary has operated for seven years and is home to 79 animals. Moore has a day job as an elementary school librarian, so a team of about a dozen volunteers and an on-site caretaker look after the animals when she isnt there.

While Romeo reached his full-size years ago, the sanctuary has to get creative with his long-term care plan. Veterinarian Lauren Furrer treats him on-site, and the sanctuary has purchased a large stock trailer in case Romeo needs to go to the hospitalthe closest one being in Corvallis.

There isnt much information out there about full-grown steers since males dont get to live that long in the cattle industry, Furrer said at Thursdays event.

Even at healthy weights, larger animals experience increased strain on their joints and hearts. Furrer estimated Romeo weighs 3,500 pounds, a remarkable figure even among rodeo bulls, which typically weigh between 2,200 and 2,400 pounds.

Fortunately, Romeo is healthy and sticking around at the sanctuary. Moore hopes to write a childrens book about Romeo and for people to learn about his survival story.

Hes part of the family here, Moore said.

Visitors can meet Romeo on a Welcome Walk offered 12:30-1:30 p.m. Sundays through Aug. 25 for a suggested donation of $5 at Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary, 82940 Hurlburt Lane in Creswell.

 Riya Sharma covers Here is Oregon feature stories. Reach her at rsharma@oregonian.com or 503-294-5996
Oregons ice cream tastes are very close to home, according to a new report from Trace One.

The report identified the most popular national and regional ice cream brands in each state, looking at Google Trends data over time.

Trace One is a software solutions company, which joins the ranks of lawn care, online casino and aquarium companies that produce consumer-friendly reports that power lists like this one.

Oregons favorite national ice cream brand is, unsurprisingly, Tillamook. Tillamooks dairy products, including their ice cream, are made right here in Oregon and the company headquarters is in Tillamook on the Oregon coast.

Tillamook was the most popular national ice cream brand in eight states: Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Alaska, Montana, Wyoming, Minnesota and West Virginia.

The study also looked at which regional brand each state preferred, and once again Oregonians chose a local favorite: Salt & Straw.

Founded in Portland in 2011, Salt & Straw has expanded in recent years and now has locations in Washington, California, Florida and Nevada, as well as Oregon.

The company also recently launched a line of ice cream cakes.

Washington state also chose Tillamook as its favorite national brand, but went with Seattles Molly Moons Homemade Ice Cream as its regional favorite.

 Julie Evensen covers trending topics and popular culture. She can be reached at jevensen@oregonian.com or @juliecevensen on Twitter and @julieevensen on Threads.

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YEREVAN, 24 MAY, ARMENPRESS. The investment company Apricot Capital and the French University in Armenia (UFAR) signed a partnership agreement today, launching a number of collaborative initiatives, including a scholarship program and masterclasses.

"This partnership reflects our commitment to contributing to Armenia's education system and the training of future professionals," said Vachik Gevorgyan, CEO of Apricot Capital. "Education is a core pillar of our CSR strategy. Our team members lecture at universities, we've launched the Apricot Academy to provide educational content on investments, and we actively collaborate with Armenia's leading universities. This new partnership with UFAR is a logical continuation of our efforts, and we are delighted to collaborate with this prestigious interstate university."

Under the agreement, the "Apricot Excellence Scholarship" program will be implemented to support high-achieving students. The company's leading experts will conduct masterclasses and seminars for students, who will also have the opportunity to undertake an educational internship at Apricot Capital, gaining practical experience and working alongside seasoned investment professionals.

UFAR believes in partnering with businesses to enrich the student experience. Through collaboration with Apricot Capital, this commitment is supported by financial and networking opportunities. Students engage in professional immersion, interacting with experts in the financial sector to grasp industry trends and methods. This direct involvement broadens their horizons, sharpens their practical skills and prepares them for the professional world by exposing them to the real business environment, noted Salwa Nacouzi, Rector of UFAR.

Both Apricot Capital and UFAR reaffirmed their belief that collaboration between the private sector and educational institutions is crucial for developing highly skilled and innovative young professionals who will, in turn, contribute to Armenia's future growth and success.

About Apricot Capital

Apricot Capital is a leading investment company in Armenia, providing investment tools and an efficient platform for both seasoned and beginner investors.

Through Apricot Capital mobile app, clients can access the global financial markets and invest in reputable international companies' stocks, ETFs, Armenian government bonds, and other instruments.

Apricot Capital is regulated by the Central Bank of Armenia.

About UFAR

The French University in Armenia (UFAR) is one of the leading higher education institutions in Armenia. UFAR awards two state diplomas: Armenian and French (European). The academic partners of UFAR are the University of Jean Moulin Lyon 3 and the University of Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier. UFAR currently has more than 2100 students and about 2900 alumni. A testament to UFARs success is the job placement of its graduates. According to a survey of 2022 graduates, only 1% is actively seeking employment.
Lilongwe, Malawi (PANA)  The Malawi Ministry of Health, bioMerieux, and Pfizer will collaborate to advance Malawis efforts to fight resistance to antibiotics, which is causing a public health disaster, authorities said Thursday
On Wednesday, the families of 19 casualties of the Uvalde elementary school firing in Texas declared a lawsuit against almost 100 state police officers involved in the erroneous law enforcement response.

Victim's Families File $2 Million Settlement with the City

In a declaration, the families also revealed a $2 million compensation with the city, which includes assurances from city leaders to enforce higher standards and better training for local police.

The declaration anticipates the second anniversary of one of the bloody school firings in U.S. history. On May 24, 2022, a teen assassin slain 19 fourth-graders and two teachers at Robb Elementary School.

This lawsuit is the recent in a series linking for accountability for the law enforcement's actions. Over 370 federal, state, and local officers were present at the location but waited more than 70 minutes before facing the gunner.

This is the first lawsuit after a 600-page Justice Department report issued in January, which detailed comprehensive failures in training, communication, leadership, and technology on that day.

The lawsuit asserts that state troopers did not adhere to their active shooter training and responsibility to confront the shooter, while the students and teachers were following lockdown protocols. "These protocols trap teachers and students inside, leaving them fully reliant on law enforcement to respond quickly and effectively," stated the families and their attorneys.

Inside the classroom, terrified students called 911 as desperate parents begged officers to intervene, some hearing gunshots from the hallway. Eventually, a tactical team entered the classroom and neutralized the shooter.

Read Also : Maryland Teen Accused of Threatening School Shooting at Montgomery County School

Families Sue Texas Police for Mishandled Law Enforcement Response

Erin Rogiers, an attorney representing the families, stated, "Law enforcement's inaction that day was a total and utter betrayal of these families and their lost loved ones.

The Texas Department of Public Safety had the resources, training, and firepower to respond appropriately but ignored all of it and failed at every level. These families not only have the right but also the duty to seek justice."

An ongoing criminal investigation into the police response is being conducted by Uvalde District Attorney Christina Mitchell's office. A grand jury was convened this year, with some law enforcement officials already called to testify.

The lawsuit names 92 officials and troopers from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Uvalde School District, former Robb Elementary Principal Mandy Gutierrez, and former Uvalde schools police Chief Peter Arredondo as defendants.

A previous lawsuit filed in December 2022 against local and state police, the city, and other school and law enforcement entities seeks at least $27 billion and class-action status for survivors.

Furthermore, at least two other lawsuits have been documented against Daniel Defense, the Georgia-based manufacturer of the AR-style rifle used by the assassin.

The $2 million compensation with the city is capped to hinder bankrupting the city, permitting the community to continue healing. The payment will come from the city's insurance coverage.

The settlement includes a new "fitness for duty" standard and enhanced training for Uvalde police officers. It also designates May 24 as an annual day of remembrance, establishes a permanent memorial in the city plaza, and supports mental health services for families and the broader Uvalde community.

The police response to the mass shooting has faced criticism and scrutiny from state and federal authorities. A 600-page Justice Department report in January highlighted extensive failures in training, communication, leadership, and technology.

Another city-commissioned report also pointed out numerous law enforcement missteps but defended the actions of local police, which angered victims' families.

Veronica Luevano, whose daughter Jailah and nephew Jayce were killed, said, "For two long years, we've endured pain and a lack of accountability from the law enforcement agencies and officers who let our families be destroyed that day. This settlement represents a first good faith effort, particularly by the City of Uvalde, to start rebuilding trust in the systems that failed to protect us."
YEREVAN, 24 MAY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 24 May, USD exchange rate up by 0.19 drams to 387.77 drams. EUR exchange rate up by 0.09 drams to 420.38 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate up by 0.04 drams to 4.33 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 0.12 drams to 493.28 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price down by 615.51 drams to 29389.30 drams. Silver price down by 15.70 drams to 380.75 drams.
A 17-year-old high school senior drowns a couple of hours after his graduation while celebrating his milestone.

A high school senior from Coffeyville, Kansas, drowned just hours after his graduation, sending shockwaves through the community.

The 17-year-old, Alonzo Juan Juan, was celebrating his achievement with friends at Big Hill Lake in Labette County when the tragedy occurred on Saturday, May 18. The body of the teenager was searched throughout the lake and was later recovered by the rescue team later that evening.

Coffeyville High School Rallies to Support the 17-Year-Old's Family

After being aware of Juan's death, the community rallies behind the teen family, offering condolences and support for his sudden death.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with funeral, medical, and other expenses. Additionally, the funds will help cover the costs of transporting Juan back to his family in Guatemala, where he was originally from.

Donations are pouring in to support Juan's family during this difficult time. The fundraiser has already garnered over $5,600 towards its $27,000 goal.

The GoFundMe page reported that Juan was a student at Field Kindley High School. The page expressed the deep grief felt by many: "Many of us, like family, friends, [and] coworkers are deeply hurt with the news we received."

Remembering a Dedicated and Aspiring Student

Field Kindley High School confirmed Juan's passing, with administrators and teachers sharing their memories of the hardworking student.

Lisa Stockton, the district's ESL learning program director, highlighted Juan's dedication and determination.

She recalled how Juan entered the district in middle school knowing only his native Mayan language and praised his commitment to learning and integrating with his peers.

"It was a huge shock to us and our community," Stockton said. "He was very involved with the other students. It just proves that hard work and dedication and having goals is worthwhile. He was a perfect example of that."

Juan had dreams of becoming a doctor, as recounted by his former teacher, Shayla Reliford. Field Kindley High School honored Juan's memory with a Facebook post announcing a candlelight vigil to be held on Thursday in his honor.

Read Also: Louisiana Lawmakers Approves Bill To Reclassify Abortion Medications as Dangerous Drugs

An Outpouring of Love and Support

The tragic news has left a profound impact on the Coffeyville community.

The GoFundMe page reflects the love and admiration many felt for Juan: "He was born August 21, 2006, and he was loved by so many and touched lots of hearts with his kindness and sweet words. This isn't goodbye, it's see you later."

The fundraiser continues to seek support for Juan's family to help them through this tragic time and to fulfill the wish of returning Juan to Guatemala for his final resting place.

"Our family is needing help with donations for the funeral and transportation cost for Alonzo. He will be sent to his home to his family in Guatemala. The donation will be given to his Guardians Guillermo Miguel to have him moved back and be laid in peace."

As the community mourns the loss of a promising young life, the outpouring of support underscores the impact Juan had on those around him and the lasting legacy of his kindness and determination.

Pedigree Dog Food Recall: Mars Petcare Issues Alert Over Metal Contamination
A California mother, Charlotte Russ, receives an $88,000 fine after her kids collected 72 clams while they were on a getaway at Pismo Beach.

During a family trip to Pismo Beach, California, the mother of five faced an unexpected and costly surprise.

Pismo Beach is popularly known as the "Clam Capital of the World" and became the site of an accidental run-in with the law when Russ's children mistakenly collected clams, believing they were picking up seashells.

This innocent mistake led to the mother of five being slapped with an astonishing $88,000 fine for clamming without a license.

A Harsh Lesson in Illegal Clamming and Wildlife Regulations

Charlotte Russ shared that her children had picked up 72 clams from the beach during their getaway.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife quickly intervened, informing Russ that her children's actions violated local wildlife regulations. Consequently, Russ received a citation on the spot.

The California mother said that right before they went, that is when she decided to open it, saw the amount, and realized the severity of the fine.

The initial shock and the looming financial burden cast a shadow over what was supposed to be a fun family outing. Russ expressed her dismay, noting, "It made me really sad and depressed, and it kind of ruined our trip."

The hefty fine, however, did not remain at its original amount. A San Luis Obispo County judge later reduced the penalty to $500, providing some relief to the distressed mother.

Lessons Learned in California Clam Regulations

Despite the initial shock and the ruined trip, Russ and her children learned valuable lessons about the importance of wildlife regulations.

"They know now at the beach don't touch anything, but they know now what a clam is, compared to what a seashell is now," Russ explained.

This experience has taught her family to be more mindful of their actions in natural environments.

Making light of the situation, Russ chose to commemorate the incident with a tattoo of a shellfish on her arm. Reflecting on the ordeal, the California mother remarked that the trip to Pismo beach is definitely one of the most expensive and unforgettable trip.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife emphasizes the necessity of such regulations to protect shellfish species, like the Pismo clam, from overharvesting.

"The reason we have these regulations is because we have to let them get to 4 inches so they can spawn and have offspring every year," said Lt. Matthew Gil.

This effort ensures the sustainability of clam populations, which have been significantly impacted by both human activity and natural predators like sea otters.

Understanding Pismo Clams and Their Habitat

Pismo clams are unique to the eastern Pacific Ocean, easily recognizable by their thick, large, triangular shells that can range in color from pale to brown.

These bivalves, with their two-halved shells and siphons, play a crucial role in their ecosystem. Clammers are restricted to collecting a maximum of 10 Pismo clams per day to help preserve their numbers.

Historically, overharvesting by clammers and predation by sea otters have drastically reduced the Pismo clam population.

However, regulatory measures have contributed to a gradual recovery of these shellfish populations, demonstrating the effectiveness of conservation efforts.
We had hoped to be able to take in a session at the still relatively new Richmond Virginia Temple, but it seems that our schedule  coupled with the cold that I came down with on the flight from Denver to here (I could almost give you the precise minute that it hit me)  wont permit that. However, in partial compensation, we were surprised to have a nice, clear view of the temple, albeit a somewhat distant one, during our approach to Richmond International Airport. It pleases me no end that there is now a temple here. Previously the large temple north of the Washington DC beltway and the small temple in Raleigh, North Carolina, were roughly equidistant from Richmond, and the traffic (particularly between Richmond and the District of Columbia) can be horrific.

As one critic confidently predicted back near our founding in August 2012, the Interpreter Foundation has been essentially moribund since December of that year. Here are six items that apparently have not appeared on the Foundations website over the past couple of days. Consider them the sound of silence:

Conference Talks: The Original English of the Book of Moses and What It Indicates about the Books Authorship (2021 Tracing Ancient Threads in the Book of Moses Conference), presented by Stanford Carmack

Stanford Carmack spoke at the 2021 Tracing Ancient Threads in the Book of Moses Conference on Saturday, April 24, 2021. About 72 percent of the language of the Book of Moses is original, independent of Genesis language (nearly 8,900 words). In this preliminary linguistic analysis, I investigate quite a few syntactic and lexical features, comparing usage to that of the King James Bible, the Book of Mormon, pseudobiblical texts, Joseph Smiths own native preferences, and the greater textual record. Aspects of the nonstandard grammar are considered as well.

Interpreter Radio Show  May 12, 2024

For the 12 May 2024 episode of the Interpreter Radio Show, our regular hosts  Terry Hutchinson, John Gee, Kevin Christensen, and Mark Johnson  were joined by special guest Gregory Steven Dundas. They discussed Come, Follow Me Book of Mormon lesson 23 and Gregs new book, Mormons Record: The Historical Message of the Book of Mormon. Their conversation was recorded, shorn of commercial interruptions, and archived, and it has now been made available to you for your listening pleasure. The Book of Mormon in Context portion of this show, for the Come, Follow Me Book of Mormon lesson 23, will also be posted separately on Tuesday, May 28. The weekly Interpreter Radio Show can be heard on Sunday evenings from 7 to 9 PM (MDT), on K-TALK, AM 1640, or, if that doesnt float your boat or isnt available to you, it can also be heard live on the Internet at ktalkmedia.com.

The Book of Mormon in Context Lesson 22: They Were Called the People of God (Mosiah 25-28)

On the 5 May 2024 Come, Follow Me installment of the Interpreter Radio Show, Spencer Kraus, Hales Swift, Brent Schmidt, and Martin Tanner came together to discuss Book of Mormon lesson 22, They Were Called the People of God covering Mosiah 25-28. Their discussion is now available to you online. The other segments of their 5 May 2024 radio show can be accessed at https://interpreterfoundation.org/interpreter-radio-show-may-5-2024.

Nibley Lectures: Come, Follow Me Book of Mormon Lesson 22: They Were Called the People of God (Mosiah 25-28)

This week, we have lectures 39 through 41 from Hugh Nibleys Book of Mormon classes at Brigham Young University, covering Mosiah 23-29. During 1988, 1989, and 1990, Hugh Nibley taught Honors Book of Mormon classes for four semesters at Brigham Young University. The lectures were video-taped and audio cassettes and printed transcripts were made of the lectures. We believe these recordings will be interesting to listen to and valuable to your Come, Follow Me study program this year. Each week, we will include the lectures covering the Book of Mormon chapters being studied that week.

Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps (2024): Lesson 22, May 27-June 2: Mosiah 25-28: They Were Called the People of God

Editors Note: Four years ago, Jonn Claybaugh began writing the Study and Teaching Helps series of articles for Interpreter. We now have these wonderful and useful posts for all four years of Come, Follow Me lessons. Beginning this year we will be reposting these articles, with dates, lesson numbers, and titles updated for the current years lessons. Jonn has graciously agreed to write new study aids for those lessons that do not directly correspond to 2020 lessons.

Hugh Nibley Observed: Hugh Nibley, Mentor to the Saints, presented by C. Wilfred Griggs

I would like to establish the context for a consideration of Hugh Nibley as a mentor by turning back the calendar to an earlier time. Although the comparison I wish to make does not match up in every detail, I believe the similarities justify placing Nibley alongside a noteworthy savant from another era. It will be for you to decide whether I am right. 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/.

Video and other material located in the Christopher Hitchens Memorial How Religion Poisons Everything File shows a prominent French-born Latter-day Saint leader recently, openly, and (it must be said) shamelessly admitting some of the crimes that he and his group of unrepentant theists have recently been committing against humanity. If you want to feel righteously indignant  and I know that, for some of you, this is an important priority  his remarks will serve you well: Why Is Utah Thriving? Look to Latter-day Saint Pioneer Values, Presiding Bishop Says: The Church leader speaks to leaders gathered for an international trade summit in Salt Lake City

Posted from Richmond, Virginia
Theres a humorous t-shirt slogan that hit the shelves about 20 years ago that declared, Lord, if youre not coming back soon, could you at least send back Ronald Reagan? With the new film, releasing from ShowBiz Direct on August 30, 2024, audiences may have the next best thing, thanks to director Sean McNamara and an impressive performance by Dennis Quaid. Quaid steps into the boots of the popular political icon in the biopic that also features Academy Award Winner Jon Voight, Golden Globe Nominee Penelope Ann Miller, BAFTA nominee Mena Suvari, Emmy Award & Golden Globe Award Nominee Kevin Dillon, and Disney star, David Henrie.

From dusty small-town roots to the glitter of Hollywood, and then on to commanding the world stage, Reagan is a cinematic journey of overcoming the odds. Told through the voice of Viktor Petrovich, a former KGB agent whose life becomes inextricably linked with Ronald Reagans when Reagan first catches the Soviets attention as an actor in Hollywood, this film offers a perspective as unique as it is captivating.

Quaid brings to life a story that transcends the boundaries of a traditional biopic, offering a profound exploration of the enduring impact of the power of one man who overcame the odds, sustained by the love of a woman who supported him in his journey, Nancy Reagan played by Penelope Ann Miller.

Ive always been told bits and pieces of the stories of Ronald Reagans life, but this movie puts the whole story together, noted Quaid. Ive played quite a few real people over the years, and I like to play them from their point of view, without judgment. It was a big challenge for me to get behind the public persona of the man and also to move beyond my own feelings of admiration for him.

The Reagan cast also includes a powerful lineup of supporting actors including Mark Moses, Trevor Donovan, Xander Berkeley, Dan Lauria, Amanda Righetti, C. Thomas Howell, Nick Searcy, Justin Chatwin, and Robert Davi.

Directed by veteran filmmaker Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Miracle Season), REAGAN serves as the debut release from the recently launched studio, Showbiz Direct, led by former exhibition veteran Kevin Mitchell, former Lionsgate distribution president Richie Fay, and former co-president of Open Road distribution Scott Kennedy.

We are honored for the opportunity to launch ShowBiz Direct with REAGAN and the cast does such an amazing job in this movie. Our team is ready to show the creative and exhibition communities that we want to work with you to put movies on the big screen where they belong and are extremely excited to bring REAGAN to a theater near you with our wide release on August 30, said Mitchell.

A biopic set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the film was shot in Oklahoma and in California at Reagans beloved Rancho Del Cielo and on Air Force One. The film follows Ronald Reagan from his humble beginnings to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and finally on to his biggest role as Commander in Chief set on the world stage.

Advance group tickets are now available to take your group of 50 people or more. Visit Reagan.Movie to inquire about mobilizing your group to see this film.

For additional information, visit Reagan.Movie and connect with @ReaganMovie on Facebook and Instagram.
Consolidated Bank Ghana LTD. (CBG), in the quest to make significant strides towards extending its reach and providing accessible banking services to Ghanaians, has opened five new branches in Hohoe, Nkawkaw, Berekum, Navrongo, and Winneba, strategically positioning itself to cater to the banking needs of these vibrant towns and surrounding communities.



The expansion of CBG's branch network across these five locations reflects the Bank's commitment to financial inclusion and its vision to make banking services easily accessible to all Ghanaians.



Each new branch is equipped with modern banking facilities to offer customers a seamless and efficient banking experience.



Mr. Daniel Addo, expressed his enthusiasm about the branch opening, emphasizing, that CBG was established with three main objectives One is to provide differentiated banking experience to our customers, the other is to continue to stand with our customers, the third is to thrive to be at the forefront of innovation in banking.



Mr. Addo reaffirmed CBGs commitment to providing exceptional banking services to customers, especially to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of the Ghanaian economy.



He added that the Management and staff at CBG are passionate and dedicated to delivering a unique banking experience to customers in the communities served and assured Ghanaians that services at the new branches would even be better.



The new CBG branches will offer a wide range of services, including personal and business accounts, loans, foreign exchange transactions, digital banking solutions, and advisory services specially designed to cater to the unique needs of the communities.



In line with CBG's commitment to financial literacy and community development, each branch will prioritize customer education initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and small businesses with the necessary financial knowledge to make informed decisions.



With the opening of the five new branches in Hohoe, Nkawkaw, Berekum, Navrongo, and Winneba, Consolidated Bank Ghana LTD continues its mission to expand its presence and deliver accessible banking services to become the Bank of choice.

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The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission have signed a historic Emissions Reductions Purchase Agreement (ERPA) with Tullow, marking a significant milestone in Ghana's efforts to address deforestation and forest degradation.



The agreement, outdoored at a ceremony in Accra on Thursday, 23rd May, 2024 represents a major step forward in Ghana's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.



The partnership aims to promote sustainable land use and forest conservation, while generating revenue for local communities and supporting Ghana's climate change mitigation efforts.



Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, hailed the agreement as a "bold and ambitious" initiative that demonstrates Ghana's leadership in addressing the global challenge of climate change. He emphasized the importance of fair pricing of carbon credits, noting that Ghana's partnership with Tullow sets a new benchmark for carbon pricing in the region.



The ERPA is part of Ghana's broader efforts to promote sustainable forest management and reduce deforestation and forest degradation.



The country he said has made significant progress in recent years, with initiatives such as the Ghana Cocoa Forest REDD+ Program and the Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project.



The partnership with Tullow is expected to generate significant revenue for local communities and support Ghana's climate change mitigation efforts. The agreement also demonstrates the country's commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection, and sets an example for other countries to follow.



On her part, Madam Julia Ross, the Director for People & Sustainability, Tullow elucidated on the scope of the project indicating that over two million hectares of land in the country will be used to plant various trees and other carbon credit innovations.



She stated that Tullow has over the years made significant investments in the fight towards zero carbon emissions with over $40million committed so far.



She outlined the socio-economic benefits of the project and explained that Tullow will continue to engage the commission and relevant stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.



In her Solidarity statement, Her Excellency Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner said she is proud of Ghana as it continues to show dedication to curtailing forest degradation and mitigating Climate Change.



She noted that with Ghana's enthusiasm, the British Government sees this as just the begin to many more successes.



She congratulated the team at Tullow and the Forestry Commission for the height achieved and encouraged other organisations to follow this example as she said "doing this is good for the business, good for the Climate and good for the people"



Mr John Allotey, the Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission provided further details about the agreement, indicating that it will span a decade and position the Forestry Commission as a major source of approved and reliable carbon credit.



He explained that the official announcement is the crowning moment of intensive, dedicated and sustained engagements between his outfit and Tullow Ghana.



He also emphasized the commitment of the Forestry Commission to the production of high integrity carbon credit that will be appealing to the international market.



The Deputy Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Mpohor Constituency of the Western Region, Hon. John Kwabena Abbam Aboah Sanie on behalf of his Minster commended the Outdooring partners; Forestry Commission and Tullow for their efforts in reaching such a height and hoped that this Forestry Commission & Tullow REDD+ Project will yield the highest results.



There were also some congratulatory statements from traditional authorities and civil societies who were present at the programme all geared towards applauding Forestry Commission and Tullow for their efforts in materialising this worthy cause.

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YEREVAN, 24 MAY, ARMENPRESS.From May 24, the border guard troops of the Republic's National Security Service took over the protection of state borders in the delimited part of the region of Tavush.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced this while addressing the nation on May 24.

Starting from today, May 24, 2024, the border guard troops of the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia took over the protection of the 1.9 km section of Berkaber settlement, 4.9 km section of Voskepar and Baghanis settlements of the state border of the Republic of Armenia.

Protection of the 5.8 km demarcated section of the Kirants settlement of the state border will be carried out by a transitional scheme until July 24, 2024, said the Prime Minister.

The PM noted that the border demarcation process was understandably the most discussed topic of recent months.

I consider it important that each of us, each citizen, has a clear answer to the following questions: what is happening in our country, what is happening with our country, why is it all happening, what are the possible scenarios and alternatives after this point?

The key factor from which the current processes derive is the strategy that the government of the Republic of Armenia has put on its table. That is the strategy of Real Armenia, the strategy of Armenia, the gilded map-image of which I show you at every opportunity. That's the Armenia I am talking about,''said Pashinyan.
Hopeson Adorye, a member of the Movement for Change, has disclosed details regarding his detention by the Ghana Police Service.



He recounted being summoned to the police headquarters, where he was interrogated about his 'dynamite' remarks.



He also mentioned that, after penning his statement to the police, he was informed that, due to ongoing investigations, bail would be withheld until the matter was settled.



In a conversation with Asempa FM and monitored by GhanaWeb, Hopeson noted that the police are set to present him in court.



"I'm currently at the ministry police station. I received an invitation to the police headquarters. There, they probed me about my dynamite comment, which I acknowledged . . . after documenting my statement, they indicated that they were probing a false publication based on orders from higher authorities, hence, they can't release me on bail until further directives are issued.



"They plan to detain me here for a day and expedite my court appearance the next day. I'm about to be placed in the police cell," he told Omanhene Kwabena Asante.



The arrest of Hopeson Adorye followed his admission in an Accra FM interview on May 10, 2024, that he was involved in a scheme to intimidate voters in the NDC's bastion during the December 2016 polls by setting off dynamite in the Volta region.



He asserted that this tactic was employed to secure a victory for the NPP.



"Before the elections, we detonated dynamite in the Volta Region, which deterred many. After voting in Tema, I traveled to the Volta Region. Upon inquiring about the voter turnout and the anticipated numbers, it was evident that the turnout was low," he stated.



The police are continuing their investigation to conclude the case.



Watch the video below:













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Ecozoil Limited, a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC) has organised a clean-up exercise along the Volta Lake at Dzemeni located in the South Dayi District of the Volta region.



The company also engaged boat owners and community members on the safe usage of the Volta Lake including the use of life jackets.



The exercise formed part of Ecozoils monthly sensitisation and training exercise they offer to users of the Volta Lake under the Volta Lake Transport Safety Project (VLTSP).



As part of the exercise, Ecozoil donated 80 life jackets for children to the district assembly for onward distribution to the boat operators and members of the community to ensure safety on the Lake.



Speaking to the media, the National Coordinator for the VLTSP, Madam Yaa Oforiwaa, emphasized on the fact that VLTSP, has the mandate to ensure that the landing sites along the Volta Lake are clean at all times.



"We organise periodic clean-up exercises and Dzemeni being a major landing site, we decided to join our operatives here to clean and also sensitize the boat owners and community members on good sanitation management and safety on the Lake," she explained.



She was however unhappy that the wearing of life jackets has not yet become a norm even though Ecozoil has supplied the community with adequate life jackets.



However, she was hopeful that the situation would change with constant education.



She announced that Ecozoil will support Dzemeni with tricycles to facilitate the collection of waste from the landing site.



Receiving the life jackets, the DCE of South Dayi, Hon. Godwin Kwame Dadzawa, expressed gratitude to Ecozoil and promised to institute a reward scheme to honour boat owners who ensure that passengers wear the life jackets while using their boats.



The DCE charged the Ecozoil operatives to continue to exhibit high standards in keeping the landing site of the Lake clean at all times and also promote safety on the Lake.



Hon. Dadzawa appealed to the Ministry of Transport through Ecozoil to increase the allowance of the operatives to motivate them to do more.



Current economic conditions are not the best so an increase in the allowance of the operatives will greatly impact their lives," he prayed.



Ecozoil, in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation, spearheads the Volta Lake Transport Safety Project to ensure safe water travel and maintain cleanliness at the landing sites.



They are also committed to keeping Ghana's beaches and coastal communities clean and healthy. Ecozoil has actively participated in multiple clean-up exercises and collaborated with various organizations to accomplish their environmental goals







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The Supreme Court has given the Attorney-General seven days to file his statement of the case in the suit in which Policy Think Tank Imani Ghana is challenging the propriety of the appointment of some heads of the various uniformed security agencies by the executive.



The case which was called today Thursday, May 23 was heard by Justice Samuel Asiedu.



In the writ filed in association with security analyst, Prof Kwesi Aning, the plaintiffs are asking the apex court to issue a declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of the letter and spirit of Articles 200, 202(1), 202(2), 202(3), 205, 207(1), 207(2), 207(3), 190(1), 191,196, 199, and 269 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, the President of the Republic of Ghana has no authority to terminate the appointment or removal from office heads of the agencies unless only upon proven stated misconduct or misbehaviour established against these office holders.



These offices included the office of the Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Service; Inspector General of Police; Director General of Prisons Service and Comptroller General of Immigration Service.



Again, the two are seeking a declaration that ..."The President of the Republic of Ghana upon assumption of Office does not have the power to make a fresh appointment to the office of the Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Service; Inspector General of Police; Director General of Prisons Service and Comptroller General of the Immigration Service unless the immediate holder of the office is deceased.....".



They are also seeking relief that the appointment of the heads of these uniformed security services by a new president who has been voted into power and sworn into office is unconstitutional.

Providing more details to back their case, the two argued that there are concerning trends where new governments compel the termination of the appointment of these heads while disregarding their constitutional rights.



"In some cases, these removals occur before the individual occupants of the office reach the statutory retirement age.



For instance, in 2017, the then Director-General of the Prisons Service, Mr. Emmanuel Yao Adzator was asked to proceed on leave at the age of 54 and subsequently, another was appointed in his stead," the suit said.



They are, therefore, demanding a consequential order to restrain or prevent the President of the Republic from dismissing or removing or attempting to dismiss or remove the appointment of persons occupying the offices of the Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Service; Inspector General of Police; Director-General of Prisons Service, Comptroller General of Immigration Service unless only in cases of proven and stated misconduct or misbehaviour established against such persons or upon retirement or resignation or death or incapacity to perform the functions of the office because of infirmity of body and mind.







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Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ambulance purchase trial, has alleged that Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame approached him to implicate Minority Leader and former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.



During cross-examination by the counsel for the Minority Leader, Jakpa was cautioned by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe to be direct in his responses and avoid wasting the Courts time.



In response to the judge's caution, Attorney-General Dame accused Jakpa of defending the Minority Leader.



This accusation prompted Mr Jakpa to retort that the Attorney-General seemed aggrieved because he had previously engaged Mr Jakpa to help the state build a case against Dr. Ato Forson.



The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 and I have evidence for that.. If he pushes me, I will open Pandoras box. I dont understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 when Im here to defend myself, Mr Jakpa said in court.



If he pushes me, Ill open Pandoras box. I have evidence to all this, he added.



Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson's expression changed to shock and anger as the situation unfolded.



To calm things down, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe ordered Richard Jakpa to lower his voice and asked for water to be brought to him.



However, Mr Jakpa refused to drink the water, stating he was too upset despite accepting the bottle.



The judge then stood down the case for a while and called the Attorney-General and Dr Ato Forson's lawyers for a discussion.

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In a significant effort to save newborn lives, TwelliumIndustrial Company Limited, the producers of Verna Mineral Water, has donated four incubators and four pieces of phototherapy equipment to some selected health centersacross Ghana.



This initiative, conducted in partnership with the Ghana Medical Association, aims to address the shortage of essential medical equipment at birthing centers. The donation event took place on Tuesday May 21, 2024, at the Ghana Medical Association Center in Korle Bu, Accra.



Ali Ajami, Marketing Director for Twellium Industries, emphasized the companys commitment to making a substantial impact on child mortality rates in Ghana. "Child mortality is a matter of great concern to everyone, and Verna is always ready to support various medical facilities through our partner, the Ghana Medical Association. We are grateful for the support Ghanaians have shown to Verna Mineral Water. Through our Changing Lives campaign, we aim to improve the lives of more Ghanaians, especially those facing financial challenges," Yehowada stated. He encouraged continued patronage of Verna products, noting that a portion of each purchase supports vital causes such as this one.



Dr. Ahmed A. Mensah, Chairman of the Ghana Medical Associations Greater Accra Division, expressed gratitude for Verna Water's support. He highlighted that this donation is part of an ongoing commitment from Verna, noting that last year the company also donated four incubators and four phototherapy equipment. These were distributed to eight hospitals across the country: Dominase SDA Hospital (CHAG) and Bekwai Municipal Hospital in the Ashanti Region, Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital in the Western Region, Hohoe District Hospital in the Oti Region, Ga West District Hospital in Amasaman, Ewim Polyclinic in the Central Region, Tamale West Hospital, and Sunyani Municipal Hospital. Dr. Mensah called on other institutions to follow Vernas example in giving back to society.



Twelliums social responsibility initiatives extend beyond medical equipment donations. In July 2022, the company constructed a canteen, a drainage system, and a fence wall at the Kaneshie Polyclinic.



Additionally, through the Changing Lives campaign, Twellium covered the medical expenses for Rhoda AkorfaSenyegbe, who required surgery for a large left atrial myxomaat the National Cardiothoracic Centre, paying the cedi equivalent of $7,000, equivalent to GHC101, 500 for her treatment.



Twellium Industrial Company Ltd. continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery in Ghana through sustained support and impactful donations, reinforcing its role as a vital partner in the nation's health sector.

Source: Peacefmonline









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

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As the December 2024 general elections draw near, the National Peace Council has cautioned the Electoral Commission, to protect their Independence and not to allow it to be exploited.



According to the Peace Council, it is of great importance for the Electoral Commission to allow the various stakeholders to make contributions and suggestions on what will make the 2024 elections, peaceful, free, fair and transparent.



A member of the Council, Malvi Mohammed Bin Salih speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the launch of the National Elections Response Group, said the EC must listen to divergent opinions.



He posited that the EC should not hide under its independent umbrella to refuse suggestions adding that posterity will not forgive the Commission should something go wrong in the upcoming December 2024 polls.



Independent they are, yes. But that doesnt stop them from listening to Ghanaians, listening to the wisdom of our elders, and so on and so forth. They should not, under any circumstances, hide behind the independence to refuse to consult and listen.



If they put their act together and do it well, they can put Ghana together and they can place Ghana on a pedestal of peace and progress. But if they dont act well, they can also break Ghana and posterity will not forgive them if it so happens.



The largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress has been calling on the various stakeholders to add their voice in talking to the Electoral Commission in order to have peaceful elections.



According to the NDC, if pocket of violence are recorded during the limited voter registration exercise, then it is paramount that the EC put measures in place to avoid any electoral carnage come December, 2024.



The National Peace Council added that, if the elections will be event free, it is depends on what measures the Electoral Commission puts in place.





Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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The seat of government, the Jubilee House has explained the reason for refusing an earlier request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) for the full KPMG audit report on the agreement between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).



On 24th April 2024, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, received a request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), under section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) (RTI Act), for a copy of the KPMG report on the contracts and transactions between the GRA and the SML.



The President had commissioned KPMG, on 29th December, 2023, to undertake an inquiry to gain a clear understanding of the matters in controversy, and to be properly advised in taking the necessary decisions.



Bearing in mind the provisions of the RTI Act, particularly section 5 (1) (a) and (b) (i) of the Act, the President denied the request by MFWA since the KPMG report constitutes matters exempt under section 5 of the RTI Act, the seat of government said.



It stated that Section 5 (1) (a) and (b) (i) of the RTI Act states that information is exempt from disclosure where the information is prepared for submission or has been submitted to the President or Vice President for consideration or contains matters the disclosure of which would reveal information concerning opinion, advice, deliberation, recommendation, minutes or consultation made or given to the President or Vice President and is likely to undermine the deliberative process on the part of the President or Vice President.



Furthermore, the presidency said, there has been a judicial pronouncement, in a case involving Media Foundation for West Africa, that a request which falls within the categories of information exempt under RTI Act can be lawfully declined.



The KPMG report comprises opinions, advice, deliberations, and recommendations that are integral to the Presidents deliberative process and, therefore, qualifies as exempt information under section 5 (1) (a) and (b) (i) of the RTI Act. Thus, the Office of the President was justified in turning down the request from MFWA for a copy of the KPMG report.



It is important to recount that, even before the request from MFWA, the President had, on 24th April, 2024, caused to be published a detailed press statement outlining KPMGs findings and recommendations, as well as his directives to the Ministry of Finance and GRA.



The Office of the President reiterates the necessity for those who file applications and requests under the RTI Act to have a thorough understanding of its provisions.



It is vital to appreciate that the legal framework for access to information includes safeguards intended to protect the sanctity of decision-making at the highest levels of government, which must not be compromised or misused in the pursuit of access to information.



However, the President, in the interest of full transparency in governance, openness, and honesty with the public, has decided to waive the privilege under section 5 of the RTI Act and has directed the publication of the KPMG report in full.





Source: 3news.com









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

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Founder and leader of the Movement for Change, John Alan kwadwo Kyerematen has visited a leading member of the Movement for Change, Hopeson Yao Adorye at the ministries police station in Accra to lend his support.



The Presidential candidate on Thursday morning visited Hopeson Adorye who was initially invited by the Accra Police command for questioning was later arrested by the police and refused bail.



This was disclosed by the Personal assistant to Alan Kyeremanten, Nana Yaw Sarpong who spoke in an interview on UTVs 'Adekye Nsoroma' on Thursday, May 23.



No one informed Hopeson he was going to be arrested. He was going about his duties with some members of the Movement for Change when he received a call from the Police that he is needed for questioning at the Police District office. He went there and was told to wait for some orders above, he narrated.



Nana Yaw Sarpong added that, Hospeson Adorye was to be transferred to Accra Central where they believed the questioning was going to be done but to their utmost surprise, he was not interrogated at the Accra Central Police Command but was rather taken to the Ministries.



The member of the Movement for Change, who was a former stalwart of the ruling New Patriotic Party, was arrested over his statement of a detonation of dynamite in the Volta region to deter voters during the 2016 General elections.



Hopeson Adorye was picked up after he spoke on Accra FM on May 10, where he confessed to being part of a plot that detonated dynamite in the Volta Region to scare voters in the stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to favour the NPP.



Prior to the elections, we blasted dynamite in parts of the Volta Region, and that scared a number of people. When I finished casting my ballot in Tema, I drove to the Volta Region, and when I asked for the number of people who had voted and the expected number of voters, it turned out people did not come out to vote, he said.



The movement fir Change leader was accompanied by the former national Orgainsier of the NPP, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, Abubakari Saddique, ken Kuranchie amongst others.





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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The National Identification Authority (NIA) has responded to the Director of Elections and Information Technology (IT) for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Omane Boamah over the ongoing Ghana Card registration in Pusiga district of the Upper east region.



According to the NIA, the exercise being conducted in the Pusiga district is legitimate and necessary adding that it as lawful, proper, and wholly wholesome.



The response from the NIA is in sequel to the allegation made on his Facebook page by Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, who was a former Information Minister during the government led by John Mahama, that the ongoing registration being conducted by the NIA was politically motivated and disguised as a collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).



According to Dr. Omane Boamah, the NIAs true intention was to facilitate illegal voting in the final phase of the voter registration process being conducted by the Electoral Commission.



The NIA in its letter, outlined a number of allegations made by the NDC through Omane Boamah.



In a facebook post, Dr. Omane Boamah made statements which suggest that the governing New Patriotic party (NPP) has criminalised state institutions with the NIA inclusive.



The post, according to NIA also suggests that, the NIA which is headed by Dr. Bawumias close friend Ken Attafuah has strangely chosen this voter registration period to embark on a special pilot program to issue Ghana Cards to Ghanaians living along the borders of Ghana and Burkina Faso in Pusiga as well as giving the people driven away from the Pusiga registration centre, Ghana cards in order for them to register within these final 7 days and then exercise their franchise come December 7.



According to Dr. Omane Boamah and the NDCD, the registration exercise in the Pusiga District is a politically motivated enterprise masked as a collaboration with IOM, and its purpose is simply to aid illegal voters to embark on the last lap of the voter registration exercise.



In a response to the allegations made by Dr. Omane Boamah, the NIA stated, The NIA flatly denies each and every one of the allegations specified above, as well as the insinuation that the NIAs decisions and actions spring from a malevolent seedbed.



Specifically, the NIA wishes to assure the public that, contrary to Dr. Omane Boamahs wild assertions, the NIA has acted in utmost good faith, in the national interest and in accordance with the law.



Accordingly, NIA reacts as follows to the above allegations:



1. Criminalization of NIA: The NIA has NOT been criminalized by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) or any other entity whatsoever and howsoever described. The Governing Board and Senior Management of the NIA comprise men and women of sterling integrity and unalloyed patriotism who will not countenance the criminalization of NIAs operations by any entity or yield to any improper considerations in the discharge of their duties; 2. Malicious Timing of Pusiga Registration: The idea for the registration of Ghanaians in the Pusiga District was first mooted by the International Organization for Migration (IMO) on 30th August 2023 following a Stakeholder Consultation on border security along the Ghana-Burkina Faso border conducted by the Ministry of the Interior at the Fiesta Royal Hotel in Accra. A long series of negotiations and preparations eventually culminated in the commencement of the registration exercise on Monday, 20th May 2024, with the IOM bearing the entire cost of the operations, namely: surveying and selecting registration centres; deploying personnel and equipment; organizing and conducting the registration exercise; remunerating the staff; supervising and monitoring the registration exercise; and retrieving equipment and personnel after the exercise. The collaboration is supported by a Purchase Order for General Services duly executed by the lawful representatives of the two parties, NIA and IOM, on 3rd May 2024.



3. Registration of Unqualified Applicants: The NIA has never sought to equip or empower any unqualified persons with the Ghana Card to enable them to register within these final 7 days and vote on December 07. The NIA is unaware of any persons having been driven away by NDC officials from any Electoral Commission (EC) registration Centre in Pusiga. The arrest of an EC officer for allegedly using a single Ghana Card to register multiple individuals has got nothing to do with NIA; the conduct of that EC officer is unrelated to NIA in any shape or form. The NIA does not condone any illegal activity and is not involved in the activities of the EC or its officers.



4. Collaboration with IOM is a Mask for Partisan Political Enterprise: The registration exercise is an honest operation in response to a formal request by the respected and credible IOM; it reflects the responsiveness of NIA to well-considered proposals from stakeholders for expanding registration options for Ghanaians. The collaboration between NIA and IOM is not a mask for anything but an unqualified human good being offered by two noble institutions in the service of Mother Ghana. NIA unequivocally denies that the purpose of the collaboration is to aid illegality and firmly asserts that NIA has not aided, is not aiding, and will not aid any illegal voters to embark on the last lap of the voter registration exercise. For the avoidance of doubt, NIA further states categorically that the Ghana Card registration exercise in the Pusiga District is lawful, proper, necessary and wholly wholesome; it is focused on ensuring that vulnerable Ghanaian populations, particularly those living in communities straddling the Ghana-Burkina Faso border, are able to register for the Ghana Card if they have not already done so, in order to ensure their accurate identification, facilitate their easy crossing of the border, enable them access various public services and ensure their security within the border area. As the IOM stated in its letter to NIA dated 27th March 2024: 



"Without the Ghana card or any other means of confirming the identity of border residents seeking to cross, conflict arises with Border Management Agencies (BMAs), leading to the usage of irregular crossing points by the border residents. To help address this challenge IOM is requesting the NIA to support registering and issuing Ghana cards to the border residents in Pusiga and its environs to facilitate cross-border movements by the residents . . . NIA can leverage on this opportunity to issue Ghana Cards which have been printed but are yet to be collected by already registered applicants.



The letter from the NIA signed by the Cooperate Affairs Directorate on May 22 condluded by stating that, The intervention by Hon. Dr. Omane Boamah in his said Facebook post is most unfortunate as it seeks to highlight the evils of deliberate miscommunication and deception of the public. Beyond the truth of (a) friendship between Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Prof. Ken Attafuah and (b) collaboration between NIA and IOM to register Ghanaians in Pusiga and environs, there is no evidentiary basis to any of the wild claims and conjectures made by Dr. Omane Boamah."

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The 3-year-old son of rodeo star Spencer Wright is in critical condition after he drove his toy tractor into a river and was rescued a mile downstream in Beaver County, Utah.

Levi Wright is hospitalized at Primary Childrens Hospital in Salt Lake City after being found in the water unresponsive.

He is everything a 3-year-old boy should be. Hes obsessed with the T-Rexes. He loves root beer.  He loves tractors, family friend Mindy Clark said during an interview with KSLTV.

According to Clark, the incident took place on Tuesday when the childs mother, Kallie Wright, was watching her son play on his tractor outside the familys home. The mother went inside for a moment to check on her 9-month-old baby, Clark said.

Clark explained that within seconds, the 3-year-old ended up in a river on the edge of the property that he normally stays away from.

By the time she had turned around and come back, he was gone. And, you know, little kids, theyre fast, Clark told the news outlet.

Clark said it was because of the spring runoff, the river was running higher and with a heavier flow than normal.

She had seen his tractor overturned and immediately dialed 911, and hopped in the water and started looking for him, Clark explained to the news outlet.

At approximately 6 p.m., the Beaver County Sheriffs Office dispatch center received a call regarding the incident, according to their statement shared on Facebook.

After authorities responded, the 3-year-old was found and life-saving measures were administered on scene, the release said. He was transported to Beaver Valley Hospital, and was later airlifted to Primary Childrens Hospital, per the statement.

Clark said that at first, the family was planning end-of-care, under the impression that the 3-year-old wasnt going to make it.

Clark shared an update on Facebook from Kallie Wright: Levis heart is beating on its own, he has a will to breathe but his sweet little brain was without oxygen too long and there is no coming back from that.

We cuddled him all night and feel strongly that his spirit is no longer with us. We cant be selfish and drag this out for days, he doesnt deserve that. Shortly we will stop care and hold him close until his last breath on earth. My Baby, my beans, Mom & Dad love you always and forever!

Please give them time to navigate through this process. They will have more to share soon. Please send prayers for healing and comfort.

Wednesday morning, the child was more responsive than doctors had expected and wanted to give him more time. Clark said she drove up from Arizona Wednesday to be with the family.

Clark shared yet another update on Facebook on Wednesday from her best friend.

Not much change in Levi since our last update but I do want you to know that we have received multiple small miracles along the way and doctors are certainly surprised by the strides he has made.

He is fevering so theyre keeping him really cold which is hard to watch, I can just hear him saying Mommy, Im pretty coldy. He is getting an eeg, to monitor any brain activity and we havent heard much on what theyre seeing yet.

Theyve also started him on antibiotics and will do an MRI Friday or Saturday! We are unbelievably humbled by the love and prayers we have received, the help in all forms that is flooding our way is surreal. We miss our other babies, Mom hasnt spent a night away from baby until now but Brae and Steeley are in the best hands! Kallie Wright said, referencing her and Spencers two other children.

Spencer Wright, the father of the 3-year-old, is a well-known rodeo star as a professional saddle bronc rider.

Bronc Riding Nation shared pictures of the 3-year-old on Instagram and was among many who sent well-wishes to the family.

Were asking you to join the massive prayer effort for 3-year-old Levi Wright, Kallie and Spencer Wright and everybody who knows and loves them, the organization wrote.
The Tesla driver spotted the new addition mounted on a power pole in Queensland  and it speaks to a big change underway.

A Tesla owner couldn't help but pause and take a closer look after spotting something attached to a power pole on the side of a road in Ipswich, Queensland. Source: Facebook

A striking detail on the side of a suburban road has drawn attention to one Australian states push to lead the renewable energy revolution. A Tesla driver spotted the new addition mounted on the side of a power pole while traveling through Bellbird Park in Ipswich, Queensland, this month.

After stopping to take a closer look, the intrigued man discovered the large box attached near the top of the pole was in fact a community battery. Seems like a good idea to lower grid usage and soak up all that extra solar from nearby rooftops, he posted on a Facebook page dedicated to owners of the popular electric vehicle.

A large green sign plastered on the side of the power line reads: Your local battery.

Neighbourhood battery launches in Ipswich

The neighbourhood battery is one of 35 that will be installed across Ipswich  which has over 35 per cent of homes and businesses with rooftop solar panels  as part of a $10 million Queensland Government initiative.

The government-owned Energex and Origin Energy announced last year they were teaming up to install the 30 power pole-mounted and five ground-level batteries across seven suburbs to help offset current network challenges, and encouraged residents to join the Neighbourhood Battery Trial.

So far, about 40 per cent of the batteries  which soak up surplus solar energy produced by rooftop panels during the day, before sharing it back with the community later at night  have been set up, Joanna Nelson, Origin Energys General Manager Portfolio Delivery in the Future Energy team, told Yahoo News Australia on Friday.

What were actually doing, in basic terms, were trying to mimic as if they have a battery in their own garage, she explained. Youre basically saying if you can store your solar during the day, you can get it back for free at night. So thats the idea.

Energex and Origin Energy announced last year they were teaming up to install the 35 community batteries across seven suburbs in Ipswich to help offset current network challenges. Source: AAP

In the trial, which is open to residents who have solar panels and those who do not, every household can access up to 4kWh of energy when they need it for $15 a month. The average Aussie household uses 16kWh of electricity a day, according to Origin Energy.

Participants to get rebates on their energy

For Ipswich locals who do have solar panels, they will get a rebate of an estimated $259 a year, while those who dont can still reap a rebate of $186.

For non-solar customers were basically just saying youre sharing the benefits that the community generates through the battery, and youll get a discount, a rebate on your energy, Nelson told Yahoo.

And its explained in a very similar way that when excess renewable energy is generated during the day, its stored in the battery and you get it back at night for a lower cost than you would otherwise.

So far, there are 100 to 200 participants in the Queensland trial, but that is expected to expand to about 700 customers by the time all of the batteries are deployed, Nelson explained, adding that there are also community battery trials occurring in NSW, including the Kiama Community Battery launch which just launched on Friday.

Partnering with Endeavour Energy, Origin Energy has installed community batteries in selected regions in the state, including Western Sydney last year and Shell Cove, which was deployed in April.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
The WellSpan WellFlight base has relocated from Lancaster County to Lebanon County.

Wellspan WellFlight, which provides air medical transport services, moved to Lebanons public safety facility on Cornwall Road in North Cornwall Township in April. Wellspan WellFlight will continue to serve residents in central Pennsylvania.

WellFlight operates around the clock, every day of the year transporting every patient who needs critical air medical services, regardless of their ability to pay. WellFlight serves communities in central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland.

We are grateful for the relationship we built with East Cocalico Township and the Stevens Fire Department and are proud to be partnered with the Lebanon County Department of Emergency Services, Ron Brown, WellFlight account executive, said in a news release. With the relocation to Lebanon, there was no interruption of emergency service to the communities we serve. That is WellFlights testament and commitment to ensuring efficient and reliable service.

We are very excited to be in Lebanon County and the opportunity to provide the community with advanced critical care when time matters most, Bob Salvatico , WellFlight clinical base lead and flight nurse, said in the news release. We augment ground EMS with the ability to provide emergency blood transfusions, rapid and advanced airway management, as well as an expanded medication scope of care to treat patients on the scene just like they are in an intensive care unit. Additionally, we are positioned to ensure safe, rapid, and efficient transport to a variety of tertiary care hospitals in the region.

WellFlight is part of Air Methods, an air medical service.

WellFlight also offers several community courses for local first response agencies including landing zone safety training, cardiac and/or airway management, and trauma-related incident courses.

Since opening the second joint venture location with WellSpan Health nearly a year ago, Air Methods and the WellFlight team have worked diligently on developing strong partnerships in the counties we serve, said Brown. We look forward to continuing to build on this strong foundation for years to come.

WellSpan WellFlight also has a base in the Gettysburg area.
By Gavin Stone, The Virginian-Pilot (TNS)

Tator the hound can climb trees, if properly motivated. Tator is not nearly as good at getting down.

Virginias Newport News Animal Welfare Division received a call about Tator around 4 p.m. Wednesday. The bluetick coonhound was stuck about 20 feet up a tree, not far from the cat he had been chasing. Tator chased Boris the cat onto a branch, then realized the gravity of his situation and would not go farther.

When firefighters arrived, Boris was sitting just out of Tators reach. Firefighters used a ladder to reach Tator and safely brought him down. Boris came down on his own.

Firefighters try to reach Tator, a dog who got stuck in a tree on Wednesday. If you look closely on the branch to the right, you can see the cat, Boris, that Tator was chasing up the tree. (Newport News Fire Department/TNS)TNS

Both Tator and Boris were fine.

Tator was exceptionally proud of his unintended tree-climbing, Animal Welfare said in a Facebook post.

Today, the Fire Department learned that dogs can climb up trees, the post read. Tator learned he cant climb down trees.

More:

College awards campus cat a doctor of litter-ature degree

Dog that spent 7 years walking around world with owner dies in N.J.

Lancaster County police find injured roosters believed to be part of fighting ring
By Alex Mann and Madeleine ONeill, The Baltimore Sun (TNS)

BALTIMORE  Former Baltimore States Attorney Marilyn Mosby was sentenced Thursday to one year of home detention for her perjury and mortgage fraud convictions, and ordered to forfeit her Florida condo.

U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby handed down a sentence of three years of supervised release, opting against sending Mosby to prison. Prosecutors had sought 20 months in prison.

Griggsbys decision followed an approximately four-hour hearing during which prosecutors asked for prison time and Mosbys lawyers requested probation.

While Mosby was states attorney when she perjured herself and committed mortgage fraud, Federal Public Defender James Wyda noted none of Mosbys crimes related to her role in office. He said Mosby had been punished enough given she lost her job, likely stands to have her law license revoked and endured a grueling trial that put her private life into the limelight.

Jail is not a just sentence for Ms. Mosby, her family or the community, Wyda told Griggsby.

Former Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby arrives to court in Greenbelt, Maryland, for sentencing. (Kevin Richardson/The Baltimore Sun/TNS)TNS

He also said that sending Mosby to prison would inflict extraordinary trauma on her daughters, citing letters the defense submitted from the childrens therapist and a scholar who wrote about the impacts on children when their mothers are incarcerated.

Maintaining her innocence, Mosby declined an opportunity to speak in court. Wyda said Mosby should not be penalized for pursuing legal rights.

Ms. Mosby maintains her innocence. That is her right, Wyda said. Ms. Mosby will appeal her convictions. That is also her right. Ms. Mosby is pursuing a pardon. That is also her right.

The public defenders comments came after more than a dozen people testified in Mosbys support.

Ahead of sentencing, Mosby made several appearances on news programs, professing her innocence while saying she was a victim of politically-motivated and biased prosecutions.

Earlier Thursday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Delaney pointed out several of Mosbys public statements in an effort to label the former prosecutor as a liar who lacks remorse for her crimes.

Marilyn Mosby is unremorseful. She has no regard for the truth, Delaney told Griggsby, who ultimately will determine Mosbys punishment.

Separate federal juries convicted Mosby of perjury and mortgage fraud after two trials held in Greenbelt. The former states attorney asked that they be moved from Baltimore.

In November, jurors determined that Mosby lied about suffering financial consequences because of the coronavirus pandemic, an assertion that enabled her to withdraw roughly $80,000 from her city retirement account early.

Prosecutors also accused her of being untruthful when she used the financial windfall for down payments on a pair of properties in Florida worth almost $1 million combined: an eight-bedroom house near Disney World and a condo on the Gulf Coast. She was charged with making false statements on loan applications for the homes  one count of fraud per property. Mosbys lawyers argued successfully to have a separate trial for her real estate-related charges.

A jury in February acquitted Mosby on one count of mortgage fraud  clearing her of most of the lies she was accused of  but found her guilty of the other, determining she made a false statement about a gift letter she composed saying that her then-husband Nick Mosby gave her enough money to close on the condo in Longboat Key.

In court Thursday, Griggsby asked Delaney whether there are any victims in this case. The lenders who provided loans to Mosby took no action when they learned she lied on her mortgage applications, and the money she used to put down payments on the Florida properties came from her own retirement account.

Delaney said the citizens of Baltimore are the victims because Mosby committed perjury while she was the citys top prosecutor.

It hurts the public when public officials are found to have lied under oath, he said.

Delaney also said the crimes are more serious because Mosbys work as a prosecutor shows that she knows the importance of truth.

She exonerated men who she believed were wrongfully convicted of crimes. She published a do not call list of police officers with integrity issues that prevented them from testifying in court  a list that Mosby herself would have ended up on because of her perjury conviction, Delaney said.

Marilyn Mosby does not care about facts, does not care about the law, does not care about the truth, Delaney said. In our countrys courtrooms, the truth still matters.

Before the sentencing Thursday, Griggsby granted a request from prosecutors, ordering that Mosby give up the Florida condo. The judge cited Mosbys mortgage fraud conviction in ruling she relinquish the property, noting that jurors in February found she lied on the loan application for that condo by falsifying a letter promising she would be gifted $5,000 to close on the property.

The mortgage was obtained because Ms. Mosby obtained the gift letter, Griggsby said.

One of Mosbys lawyers, public defender Maggie Grace, asked Griggsby to put a hold on the forfeiture order pending Mosbys appeal of her mortgage fraud conviction.

The judge said the government had to return Mosbys down payment on the property, which amounted to about 10% of the cost, and 10% of the condos appreciated value since she bought it. According to estimates from her attorneys, Mosbys property nearly doubled in value to almost $890,000.

Prosecutors argued Mosby should have to forfeit the property and the entirety of its appreciated value.

The defendant should not get to profit from her crimes merely because she invested the fraudulent proceeds, Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Williamson told Griggsby.

Mosbys lawyers said the government hadnt proved there was a nexus between the property and the crimes Mosby was convicted of, and called the forfeiture overkill because there was no harm to the mortgage lender.

Griggsby agreed but found a different harm.

The court shares the defenses view theres no apparent financial harm to the lender, but there had been a significant harm to the public because of Ms. Mosbys role at the time, as both an elected official and an officer of the court, the judge said.

Before court, a charter bus dropped off scores of Mosby supporters, who gathered in a prayer circle outside of the courthouse around 8:45 a.m. The former states attorney arrived around 9 a.m. sporting a crisp white suit and a short bob.

During a brief lunch break, well-known civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump spoke outside the courthouse, reading from remarks he will give in court as the defense presents its case at sentencing.

Crump said other white collar crimes have been met with a slap on the wrist.

What is different here today is that underneath that white collar is the neck of a Black woman who dared to challenge the status quo, Crump said.

Mosby has long held she is a victim of biased and politically-motivated prosecution, claims dubbed unfounded by the judge, and intensified that narrative in a series of media appearances ahead of her sentencing Thursday. A growing coalition of supporters echo her cries, alleging she is being persecuted because she advanced progressive policies as Baltimores top prosecutor.

Mosby, who served two terms as Baltimore states attorney, plans to appeal her convictions but also is seeking a full pardon from President Joe Biden. The Congressional Black Caucus urged Biden to pardon Mosby.

The office of Biden-nominated U.S. Attorney for Maryland Erek Barron led Mosbys prosecution, although the investigation into Mosby predates him. Mosby wasnt indicted until January 2022, nearly a year after Biden took office. Griggsby was also a Biden nominee.

During his argument, Delaney sought to dispel claims of ulterior motives underlying Mosbys prosecution.

In the United States of America, we do not prosecute people because of their politics, he said. And we do not cut them a break because of their politics either.

2024 The Baltimore Sun. Visit at baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A Pennsylvania man who faced 12 years in prison on the Turks and Caicos Islands after hunting rifle ammunition was found in his luggage will be heading home after receiving a suspended sentence on Friday.

Somerset County resident Bryan Hagerich, a married father of two young children, was given a 52-month suspended sentence by a Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) judge, according to ABC News, which reported that Hagerich would have his passport returned and be free to leave TCI after paying a $6,700 fine.
Earlier this year, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced a new Statewide Energy Initiative pledging to get 50 percent of Pennsylvanias electricity from solar power.

Simultaneously with the governors announcement, geoengineers at the University of Pennsylvanias Kleinman Center for Energy Policy declared their support for a proposed solar geoengineering project known as Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI). It involves spraying highly reflective particles of a substance, such as sulfur, into the stratosphere to deflect sunlight and reduce global warming.

According to some solar industry experts, solar panels need to be between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit to be at their most effective. Therefore any attempt to deflect or reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the earth could result in a significant drop in the reliability of solar energy.

Sunlight is indispensable for photosynthesis and plays a critical role in plant development and metabolism. Pennsylvania ranks among our nations top fifteen agricultural producers, and this effort to block sunlight could impact Pennsylvanias farms as well as global food supplies.

Juliet Perrin, Albrightsville, Pa.
Story by Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our free newsletters.

HARRISBURG  In April, a firestorm erupted in Harrisburg after Philadelphia police issued an arrest warrant for a sitting state House lawmaker.

Less than a week later, authorities revoked the warrant and revealed that it was based on flawed information. But in those intervening days, Republican leaders loudly and publicly objected to their Democratic counterparts casting votes on the members behalf while he was absent.

Chamber rules banned the practice until 2020, when the pandemic forced a shift. And despite the recent drama, remote voting shows no signs of going away.

Under the state constitution, bills can only pass a legislative chamber if supported by a majority of lawmakers elected to office. The method those lawmakers use to vote is up to each chamber and its rules.

The state Senate has historically allowed lawmakers to cast votes even when absent on other official business. The system allowed one senator to cast votes from a Taiwan trade mission last November, according to PennLive.

State House rules, on the other hand, previously allowed lawmakers to vote only if present on the floor, though members skirted that rule from time to time. A practice known as ghost voting sparked an Ethics Committee investigation in the mid-2000s, after a Democratic lawmaker admitted he rigged his voting machine with a wad of paper to vote yes even though he was home in Philadelphia.

Then the pandemic happened. In March 2020, the then-GOP-controlled lower chamber unanimously adopted a rule allowing for virtual voting, also known as voting by designation. It enabled lawmakers to approve a budget that fall with a near-empty chamber due to concerns over a COVID-19 outbreak in the Capitol.

A version of the rule has remained in place since.

Under the current rule, state House lawmakers can file a form with the chambers clerk allowing them to vote by designation. That empowers each caucus whip, or the leadership member charged with party discipline, to vote on behalf of the member on any question. The designation remains in effect unless a lawmaker requests to revoke it.

As of May 21, every state House lawmaker had filed the form, and none had requested revocation, Clerk Brooke Wheeler told Spotlight PA.

That includes state Rep. Kevin Boyle (D., Philadelphia). In February, police said they were investigating an incident at a Montgomery County bar involving Boyle. Democratic leadership then restricted his access to the Capitol but continued to vote on his behalf.

In mid-April, Philadelphia police said a warrant had been issued for Boyles arrest for allegedly violating a protection from abuse order. Republicans were apoplectic about the implications of Democratic leaders continuing to vote on his behalf, raging on the floor and in subsequent news conferences.

Minority Leader Bryan Cutler (R., Lancaster) argued that with Boyles location uncertain, bills that passed by only one vote could be subject to legal challenges and that Democrats had made a results-oriented decision, not a procedurally sound one.

State House Democrats have declined to discuss the extent of their conversations with Boyle during this period. But amid the dispute, leadership noted that Boyle hadnt revoked his remote voting designation.

Shortly before the April primary, the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office said the warrant had been revoked because the PFA was not active. Boyles security privileges were recently reestablished, and he has returned to Harrisburg to serve out his final term (he lost his primary election to an opponent backed by Democratic leadership).

In total, the state House held 18 days of voting sessions during Boyles absence. By designation, Boyle voted on 3D-printed firearm restrictions, stricter campaign finance reporting rules, and increased regulation of minors social media use.

Republicans say their remote voting concerns continue. A Democratic spokesperson told Spotlight PA that leadership would be happy to consider all proposals to change the chambers rules but made no commitments.

How does remote voting work?

A lawmaker isnt necessarily away from the Capitol if they opt to vote by designation. They may elect to do so to attend constituent meetings or handle other official duties in the Harrisburg area.

State Rep. Tim ONeal (R., Washington), his caucus whip, told Spotlight PA he is in constant communication with lawmakers who vote remotely to understand how they intend to vote. He may not know where they are physically or why they are unable to attend the in-person vote.

If a Republican House member does not show up on the House floor and votes remote, weve been in contact with them, he said.

ONeal said that lawmakers can ask him to cast their votes in a specific way, or they can empower him to decide how to vote.

Elizabeth Rementer, a spokesperson for state House Democrats, didnt address specific questions about the caucus internal process for remote voting. However, three Democratic lawmakers told Spotlight PA it mirrors the Republican process.

While Boyles designated votes resulted in the highest-profile complaints about remote voting, concerns arent new  and they tend to come from whatever party is in the minority.

When the state House first adopted remote voting, the rule stated it could only be used to pass bills if there has been consultation between both parties.

State House Democrats argued this meant it could only be used to pass bills with consensus support. The Republican majority rejected that argument amid weighty votes on pandemic-era questions of executive authority. That wording is no longer in the rule.

In a symbolic move, Republicans stripped voting by designation out of the chamber rules in mid-November 2022 after losing their majority earlier that month. At the time, then-Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff (R., Centre) argued the process enabled politicking on public time.

This chamber has lasted and functioned for years, hundreds of years, before there was even such a thing called remote voting, Benninghoff said at the time. It was not designed so people could run for two offices. It was designed when somebody may be ill.

After gaining a full 102-member complement in March 2023, state House Democrats passed rules that restored remote voting, though Republicans have continued to suggest restrictions. Last year, the caucus proposed remote voting only be allowed in cases of personal illness, family emergencies, or disaster declarations.

Michael Manzo, a former top state House Democratic staffer who once managed a 102-101 majority, said remote voting becomes even more important when a caucus needs all of its members to pass a bill For instance, if Manzo found out that more Democrats were on leave than Republicans, he knew the days agenda would be filled with non-controversial resolutions.

He added that he wasnt surprised complaints about it come from the minority.

I think the people who are most upset about remote voting are people who it disadvantages when you are trying to kill something on the House floor, he said.

Manzo pointed to a brief, 2007 budget impasse in which a Democratic lawmaker, Dan Surra, suffered a heart attack in late June.

Manzo talked to Surra daily, keeping him abreast of budget developments. However, because Surra was in a Harrisburg hospital bed instead of on the state House floor, he couldnt vote. That meant the chamber was deadlocked 101-101.

During the handful of days Surra was hospitalized, Manzo said Republicans wouldnt back a deal in hopes of gaining leverage. A newspaper report at the time noted the delay led to a one-day furlough of 24,000 state workers.

The budget eventually passed with wide bipartisan support.

Critics of government, Manzo said, often want it to mirror business. Remote participation, he continued, is a common feature of the business world post-pandemic, and he said remote voting should likewise be used cautiously to make sure the peoples business gets done.

At least 18 states allow remote participation in floor proceedings as of 2023, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results.
Jeremy Harrison has announced he is stepping down as government house leader. Harrsion sits during the speech from the throne at the Saskatchewan Legislature in Regina, Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Heywood Yu
As tensions over the so-called "Russian law" continue to brew in Tbilisi, the EU's enlargement commissioner was forced to issue an apology after being accused by the Georgian prime minister of making threats to his life.

In a lengthy Facebook post, Georgian PM Irakli Kobakhidze claimed on Thursday that a long phone conversation between the two turned sour when the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi drew parallels between the tense situation in Georgia and the recent shooting of Slovak PM Robert Fico.

Varhelyi allegedly said, "look what happened to (Slovak PM Robert) Fico, you have to be very careful," according to Kobakhidze.

Although he wasn't directly named in Kobakhidze's Facebook post, Varhelyi issued an immediate response, claiming his intentions were misunderstood, effectively identifying himself as the unnamed EU official in question.

"I would like to express my very sincere regret that a certain part of my phone conversation was taken out of context," Varhelyi said in a statement on Thursday.

"During my phone conversation I felt the need to call the attention of the prime minister on the importance not to enflame further the already fragile situation," the EU's enlargement chief explained.

"In this regard, the latest tragic event in Slovakia was made as an example and as a reference to where such high level of polarisation can lead in a society even in Europe."

The Slovakian prime minister was shot five times in an assassination attempt after a government meeting in the central town of Handlova last Wednesday. Many, including his cabinet members, have blamed the ever-increasing political polarisation in Slovakia for the attempt on his life.

'Global war party' gets blamed again

Kobakhidze, who has been under fire for backing the controversial "foreign influence" law that sparked major protests in Georgia after it was passed in the parliament last week, further claimed that the attack on Fico was part of a plot by an alleged international meddler he described as "Global War Party". No such parties formally exist.

He and other Georgian Dream party officials have blamed this enigmatic worldwide party, which draws from several popular conspiracy theories, for stirring up trouble in his country, starting with the Russian invasion of Georgia in 2008.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze attends a celebration of the Day of Family Purity in the center of Tbilisi, 17 May 2024 - AP Photo/Zurab Tsertsvadze

Although Kobakhidze and other party members have never provided any credible proof of the existence of such a party, the term has been used to point fingers at domestic politicians and foreign institutions seen as opponents of the Georgian Dream, including the European Commission, the US State Department, and Swiss banks.

Critics of the "foreign influence" law have likened it to a similar law in Russia, which has been extensively used by President Vladimir Putin to further silence any dissenting voices, especially after Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

This is not the first time Varhelyi had to apologise for his words. In February 2023, MEPs called for Varhelyi's resignation after he appeared to refer to them as "idiots" in a hot-mic moment during a plenary session.

Varhelyi said that he regretted what he described as a "misunderstanding", stating that his comments were "taken out of context" in the aftermath of the incident.

Last October, Varhelyi found himself in hot water once more after he went solo and misleadingly announced the suspension of "all payments" to the Palestinian authorities in the early days of the Israel-Hamas war. This prompted a cross-party coalition of 73 MEPs to demand his resignation once more.

Georgia has been a candidate for EU membership since last December, joining Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey and Ukraine in their pursuit of full membership in the union.
The government was warned a greater glider was living in an ancient hollowed tree. Its contractors cut it down.

A greater glider (inset) was found with multiple injuries including evidence of blunt trauma at the base of a tree (circled) felled by a Victorian government agency. Source: WOTCH/Forest Conservation Victoria

A week after an endangered mammal was found dead inside an Australian national park new details have emerged from its pathology report.

Victorian authorities have confirmed with Yahoo the greater glider showed signs of blunt force trauma. The result is not surprising and conservationists say it's "not hard to join the dots".

The greater glider was found next to a tree that had been felled.

A greater glider hollow had been documented in the tree.

A greater glider was filmed emerging from that hollow days before it was cut down.

The tree was one of dozens earmarked for destruction inside the Yarra Ranges National Park by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV), which sits within the Victorian governments environment department (DEECA).

It says the program is important in preventing bushfires, but last week WWF-Australia labelled it complete madness and questioned why these ancient trees suddenly need removing given some have stood in the national park for over 100 years.

After a tree was marked for removal by FFMV (left), investigators identified a hollow in its branches (centre) and filmed a greater glider living inside (right). Source: WOTCH

Despite the high profile death of the greater glider last week, FFMV appears determined to keep felling old growth trees in national parks. New pictures have been supplied to Yahoo News by investigators from Forest Conservation Victoria showing the stump of a 2.85 metre giant that was discovered felled on Friday.

The tree is of such a size that four people can be seen sitting comfortably spaced out in front. It likely grew at the site for well over a century.

A massive 2.85 metre tree was discovered felled on May 24. Source: Forest Conservation Victoria

Why was the tree cut down if an endangered species was living in it?

Before the tree with the greater glider in it was cut down a week ago, a team from Wildlife Of The Central Highlands (WOTCH) had repeatedly warned the Victorian Government and its federal counterpart the marsupial was living inside. They even produced video evidence which you can watch below.

Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) has maintained the trees were a danger to their workers.

The habitat value of every tree deemed hazardous is assessed by our expert staff against the risk to the public and to firefighters, when required this assessment is done in consultation with independent experts," FFMV claimed a week ago in response to questions from Yahoo.

But the Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) disputes the trees are a danger. It commissioned its own independent arborist report, seen by Yahoo, which assessed 16 trees and concluded there was a one in a million chance of them harming anyone.

Last week when we asked FFMV about its decision to cut down the tree. It said, "We make every effort to minimise impacts on flora and fauna and follow a rigorous planning and approvals process".

The Victorian and Commonwealth governments are legally required to protect endangered species. Prior to the greater glider's death, the federal department of environment told Yahoo it was making enquiries into the removal of trees in Yarra Ranges National Park, but it has refused to supply any details of what this entails.

The tree was cut down by FFMV and logs were salvaged from its trunk and dragged across the fire break. Source: WOTCH

What we know of the greater glider's death

Since Sunday, Yahoo News has repeatedly requested a copy of the necropsy report that DEECA commissioned after the greater glider died.

On Thursday it confirmed its pathologists had reported the manner of death as indeterminate, but they had noted evidence of blunt trauma. It did not release the necropsy report.

Blake Nisbet from WOTCH told Yahoo News on Friday that "it's not hard to join the dots" and see what killed the animal.

"The evidence to us is extremely clear. We filmed that greater glider emerging from a hollow in that tree two weeks ago. We told them and they still cut it down. And that's where the animal was found dead," he said.

Conservationists were left heartbroken after discovering the dead glider. Source: Forest Conservation Victoria

FFMV is yet to answer why it cut the tree down despite there being clear evidence there was an endangered species living in it.

Greater glider habitat trees are in short supply because of Victorias decades-old logging program. They live inside eucalypt hollows which do not start forming for 100 years.

Operations inside the Yarra Ranges National Park and the Dandenong Ranges National Park, 55km to the south west, had ceased for the last nine days. Protesters are not convinced the FFMV is "making every effort" to protect greater gliders and have locked themselves onto tree harvesting equipment to prevent it being used.

But on Friday morning Yahoo received new reports from conservationists inside Yarra Ranges National Park that "logging" had resumed and a 2.85 metre-wide tree had been felled.

Protesters locked themselves onto equipment inside the Yarra Ranges and Dandenong National Parks. Source: Forest Conservation Victoria

Why the Victorian government's relationship with conservationists is strained

Since Victorias new premier Jacinta Allan assumed office in September, relations have become strained with conservationists.

Multiple groups including WOTCH and VNPA have accused the Allan government of circumventing an announcement by her predecessor Dan Andrews that Labor would end commercial native forest logging in January. Instead they say her government of continuing to log by stealth, employing contractors formerly associated with the state-owned logging agency VicForests to cut down trees in national parks and state forests.

Her decisions also appear to have upset the states largest wildlife rescue organisation, Wildlife Victoria. It was outraged after her government ignored the findings of a parliamentary inquiry into the states duck season, ordered under Andrews, which found hunting should be banned. Instead, it committed $10 million to support the activity.

At the same time it rejected Wildlife Victorias plea for what it described as a modest increase in funds to help it respond to a 46 per cent rise in calls for assistance over the four years to 2023.

On Wednesday the charity said the governments failure to immediately release the greater gliders necropsy report highlighted a disturbing trend in the governments treatment of wildlife.

From old growth forests to the development sites on urban fringes, our state government is continuing to bulldoze the homes of our wildlife often with fatal impacts on local populations, Wildlife Victoria said.

We urge the government to release the necropsy findings and to share the outcome of the investigation. Victorians genuinely care about the survival of our precious native wildlife, it's beyond time our government does the same.

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) blasted Senate Republicans for yelling about securing the border and then blocking a border security bill.

After Senate Republicans blocked the bipartisan border security bill from advancing by a vote of 43-50, Sen. Fetterman said, I voted yes on this bill once again because I know we must secure our border, and this bill would help do that. But I am tired of this political theater. I have Republican colleagues who will spend all day yelling on the floor about border security but voted against this bill because theyd rather campaign on the issue than actually address it.

Democrats should continue to bring up the border security bill through the 2024 election. If Republicans want to run on border security, then Democrats should run on their solution to securing the border that Republicans wont vote for. The next question that Republicans should face is what their plan for securing the border is.

It is obvious that their plan to secure the border is the Senate bipartisan border bill that Donald Trump will not allow them to pass because he has centered his presidential campaign around the issue.

Fetterman was right. This is political theater that Republicans are using to try to take back control of the Senate. However, if Biden and the Democrats win in November, the border bill that Republicans have rejected twice should vanish forever.

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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Trump continued to try to sell US policy by promising the fossil fuel industry that if he returned to the White House, he would immediately approve all of their projects.

The Washington Post reported:

Trump said he would lift the natural gas export ban, cancel all unnecessary energy-killing regulations  [and] open up more federal lands to drilling, the notes said, drawing cheers from the audience.

Trump told attendees that he would immediately reverse Bidens pause on approvals of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. Lifting the pause could directly benefit Energy Transfer Partners, whose pipelines serve several LNG export terminals that ship the fuel overseas. The company also clashed with the Biden administration last year when it refused to extend a permit for its LNG export terminal in Lake Charles, La.

Trumps behavior is blatant. He is going to big-money donors and promising to do everything that they want in exchange for money. Usually, donors hope to influence with their contributions. There is no hope involved with Trump. The ex-president has slapped a price tag on US energy and environmental policy, and as long as Big Oil pays up, they will get everything that they want.

During Trumps time in politics, there have been concerns and fears that he would sell access and policy. Trumps own behavior confirms that he is corruptly selling US policy, and not even a Senate investigation will slow him down.

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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CCTV has captured the terrifying moment the 50-year-old was targeted by a shooter outside his Melbourne home.

An innocent dad was targeted and shot outside his home in Altona North, Melbourne in what police believe may be a case of mistaken identity. Source: Victoria Police

CCTV has captured the terrifying moment an innocent dad was shot twice outside his home, in what police believe could be a mysterious case of mistaken identity.

The 50-year-old was standing outside his Altona North property in southwest Melbourne when the incident unfolded last October, with investigations ongoing. As he leaves through his front gate, a gold Mitsubishi Pajero 4WD is seen on CCTV driving towards the man before pulling up nearby.

According to Victoria Police, several shots were fired with one bullet grazing the father's hand as he ran to safety. Footage shows the shooter jumping out of the vehicle to chase the father on foot, firing as he ran, landing another bullet in his arm.

The victim was subsequently taken to hospital by a friend and treated for non-life threatening injuries, Victoria Police said on Thursday. Meanwhile, emergency services were called to a vehicle fire later the same night  investigators believe the stolen vehicle set alight was the same one used by the offenders during the shooting.

Police unable to establish a motive for brazen shooting

The security footage has now released as part of an ongoing investigation. Police are hopeful it could lead to "further avenues of enquiry".

Speaking to media on Thursday, Detective Inspector Adam Tilley said the father is "extremely lucky he wasn't killed". Police said the shooting was being treated as targeted, but believe it could be a case of mistaken identity and the victim was not the intended target.

The shooter pulled up in a gold Mitsubishi Pajero 4WD before jumping out, chasing the dad down the street with a gun. Source: Victoria Police

"At this point in the investigation we do believe that it may in fact have been mistaken identify and they were looking to target potentially someone [else] in the street or a previous occupant," Detective Inspector Tilley said. "Were keeping an open mind."

"At this stage, we havent been able to establish a motive for the shooting," he continued. "Weve not been able to find any reason why the victim would have been targeted in this way."

Police are particularly keen to speak to anyone with knowledge about those involved in the shooting and subsequent car fire.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
2025-2026 academic calendar input survey opens to public

A survey to gather community input to develop next school year's academic calendar opened May 21 and will close at 4 p.m. on May 31.

The survey can be accessed through this link.

CCSD said the public survey is not intended to be a vote on the calendar but instead to provide board members with information in making their final decision.

District staff intends to present data gathered from this survey to board members at the June 10 board meeting. It's anticipated that the board will approve final options at the June 24 meeting.

A link to all three calendars can be accessed through this link.

This year, a committee made up of district and school staff, community and constituent district board members assisted in the process of coming up with calendar options. A video explaining the process and calendar options can be found here.

All three options prioritize breaks throughout the school year to minimize student burnout and extend vacation times among families, although district staff told the board that calendars B and C would cause students to miss out on approximately 147,000 lunches and 77,000 breakfasts.

Board members, Superintendent Anita Huggins and her cabinet extensively discussed the potential loss of meals at a May 13 board meeting when the three calendar options were first presented.

State law does not allow the school district to offer meals when school is out, according to Jeff Borowy, the district's chief operating officer. Huggins told board members the district would determine how to "best support students and families" if board members decided to select a calendar option affecting students being provided with meals.
Australia doesn't allow its wildlife to be killed for fun, but over in Texas it's a different story.

Aside from hunting kangaroos and emus, paying customers are also allowed to fire machine guns. Source: Supplied

WARNING - DISTURBING IMAGES: A Texas ranch is offering hunters a chance to take part in a bloody "sport" involving Australian wildlife that would be illegal back home.

Kangaroos can be hunted legally year round in Texas, believe it or not its illegal to recreationally hunt Kangaroos in Australia, the ranch boasts on their website.

Separately, the same facility allows visitors to take part in other activities banned in Australia. They include driving and shooting American, Nazi, and Russian tanks that date back to World War II, as well as operating flamethrowers and machine guns. But it doesn't appear they can be fired at the animals.

Can't kangaroos be shot in Australia too?

Although licensed shooters are allowed to kill kangaroos for their meat or population control in Australia, simply hunting them for pleasure is not allowed.

For this reason, the ranch professes that people have travelled to its Texas hunting grounds and paid $5,000 to kill them where its legal. Weve had hunters fly all the way from Australia to hunt kangaroo, the ranch claims. Sydney to Texas is a 13,000km journey.

The ranch did not respond to a request for comment from Yahoo News.

The Texas ranch claims Australians have paid them to shoot kangaroos. Source: Supplied

Yahoo was contacted about the ranch by Kerry Baker, a former wildlife rescuer, who was concerned protected Australian wildlife may have been imported to the United States so it could be hunted by gun-toting Americans.

Speaking to Yahoo News on Friday, the 70-year-old Victorian said the websites content made her feel disgusted.

It literally made me feel sick in my stomach. What sort of a human being wants to go out and cause pain to an animal for pleasure? she said.

It states on their website that it's illegal to do recreational hunting kangaroos in Australia. It feel like theyre thumbing their nose at Australia.

Baker feels it's bizarre that nothing can be done to prevent kangaroos from being hunted in ways that would be illegal in Australia.

The ranch allows hunters to kill kangaroos using rifles and pistols. But its the use of bow and arrows that particularly troubles Baker.

It worries me enormously. Bow and arrow hunting has horrendous implications. They should be respecting Australias wildlife, and we should be making sure they do. Because this is just horrendous she added.

Does Australia export kangaroos to Texas for hunting?

Australias department of environment confirmed that no native animals have been directly exported to the hunting range. It was more likely the kangaroos and emus descend from wildlife imported decades ago.

For the past 30 years, Australia now had stricter legislation regulating the export of native animals. And today kangaroos and emus can only be exported for non-commercial purposes such as confining them in a zoo. And any babies these exported animals have cannot be used for hunting or other commercial purposes.

Many facilities around the world hold Australian wildlife, bred from animals that were acquired before Australian strict export controls were put in place, it told Yahoo.

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Two weeks after Tropical Storm Helene, a number of Spectrum customers in Upstate South Carolina are still without internet, leaving them looking for answers as the company declines to specify the extent of the damage or when service will be restored. Read moreSpectrum customers are still without internet service after Helene. Here's what we know.
Everyone talks about the weather, especially in the Lowcountry. Rain, wind, thunder and lightning, but also beautiful sunrises and gentle breezes are all part of life here. The Charleston Concert Band will take the listener through all the beauty and challenges of the weather in the Charlest Read more'In the Storm & Sunshine!'
One of the most challenging aspects of preserving a run-down historic building isn't figuring out what needs replacing and what only needs repairing. It isn't pulling the permits or getting the needed approvals and design review. It's not even finding the necessary money, even though the amo Read moreEditorial: Sometimes, preservation requires finding a very creative new use
Volunteer firefighter Troy Kinslow, 50, was able to fulfil his life-long dream of flying in a Spitfire before he died last week following a 10-year battle with brain cancer. Source: Supplied

Although he was not feeling his best, Troy Kinslow couldnt help but beam as he stood in front of a WWII fighter plane, about to fulfil his life-long, bucket list goal. Ever since he watched movies and M*A*S*H as a kid, hed wanted to fly in a Spitfire.

With his wife Kaylene and daughter Georgia, 18, by his side at an airfield in Briggin Hill, UK, the Aussie dad and long-time volunteer firefighter got to do just that. Its a beautiful memory that they all have now, Troys sister-in-law Laura told Yahoo News on Friday.

Volunteer firefighter diagnosed with brain tumour

One week ago, the loving and generous 50-year-old died following a decade-long battle with brain cancer that was revealed to be linked to his exposure to smoke and chemicals during his years of fighting some of Australias worst fires, Laura said.

Troy, who is originally from Adelaide, began volunteering with the Country Fire Services in South Australia in 2006. Tragically, just eight years later he was told that his love of his community  including battling blazes consuming friends homes  had likely led to his tumour.

His initial diagnosis was three to five years, Laura said. Incredibly, with the help of his physicians, he was able to keep the cancer at bay for much longer, and became a stay-at-home dad for his daughter, now 18.

Eight years after he began fighting fires in South Australia, Troy was diagnosed with a brain tumour linked to the smoke and carcinogens. Source: Supplied

Aussie dad passionately helps community

After the family moved to Melbourne in 2014, Troy joined the Country Fire Authority in Victoria, but when he wasnt medically able to battle blazes anymore, the 50-year-old started helping in other ways.

He would do a lot of their fundraising drives, dressed up as Santa for the [CFAs] Christmas drives and did all that sort of stuff. So he stayed active with them even though he couldnt fight fires, Laura said.

He also volunteered at schools, helping out in the canteen and classrooms, worked with refugees to help them get their lives started in Australia, and gave free lessons to learner drivers from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Troy was thrilled he was able to see his daughter Georgia turn 18 before his passing. Source: Supplied

With his tumour growing slowly over time, Troy had to slow down when he was also diagnosed with leukaemia a year ago.

Despite being so sick in the last year of life, he really got to tick off the bucket list  including reaching his 50th birthday, seeing his daughters 18th birthday, seeing his daughter graduate Year 12 and of course, the Spitefire flight, Laura said.

On May 16, Laura and her partner, who are both paramedics, were able to transport Troy to palliative care themselves in an ambulance. He took his final breath just days later, leaving Kaylene, who he had been with since he was 17, and his daughter Georgia devastated.

His relatives and loved ones are now determined to raise money to give the big kid and good friend the best send off possible on May 30.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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MEDevice continues to serve as the premier conference and event in Boston and Silicon Valley for medical device manufacturingSANTA MONICA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Informa Markets Engineering, the leading B2B event producer, publisher and digital media platform for the advanced manufacturing industry, announces industry icon BIOMEDevice's transition toMEDevice . As part of Informa Markets - Engineering's leading MD&M event portfolio, MEDevice serves as a catalyst for tomorrow's groundbreaking medical devices and brings innovation to life by uniting the medtech industry.Explaining the reason behind the rebrand, Melissa Magestro, VP Informa Markets Engineering states "MEDevice aims to pave the way in medical device manufacturing and the new name reflects our vision to be the most trusted source and partner in pioneering the future of medtech innovation." Magestro continues, "We wanted the event name to reflect our focus and commitment to connecting the medtech community, and we think MEDevice simply and perfectly states that." MEDevice returns this year to the No. 1 and No. 3 most prominent medtech hubs in the nation, Silicon Valley and Boston, and features the products, technology and education that engineers and C-suite leaders from startups to top medical device OEMs need to stay competitive. With the medical device manufacturing industry forecasted to reach $800 billion in revenue by 2030, the marketplace needs a focused platform that offers a closer look at the essential components that make the healthcare industry's life-saving breakthroughs possible, and MEDevice is that platform.The newly updated MEDevice events will feature hands-on demos from exhibitors, the introduction of the Power Hour Reverse pitches presented by OEMs, Quick-Connect Matchmaking, keynote presentations on the show floor, innovation showcases and an all-new pavilion dedicated exclusively to medical adhesives, highlighting the category as an important vertical for medtech innovation.MEDevice Boston (Sep. 25-26), the East Coast's leading event for the medical technology industry, and MEDevice Silicon Valley (Nov. 20-21), the premier West Coast show connecting engineers and cutting-edge medtech companies, will retain the same locations and continue to facilitate the discovery of innovative components and solutions across automation, robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and more.For more information on MEDevice Boston, please visit www.biomedboston.com . For more information on MEDevice Silicon Valley, please visit www.biomedevicesiliconvalley.com About Informa Markets Engineering Informa Markets' Engineering portfolio, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LON:INF), is the leading B2B event producer, publisher, and digital media business for the world's $3-trillion advanced, technology-based manufacturing industry. Our print and electronic products deliver trusted information to the engineering market and leverage our proprietary 1.3-million-name database to connect suppliers with buyers and purchase influencers. We produce more than 50 events and conferences in a dozen countries, connecting manufacturing professionals from around the globe. The Engineering portfolio is organized by Informa, the world's leading exhibitions organizer that brings a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com About Informa Markets Informa Markets, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LON:INF), creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. Our portfolio comprises more than 550 international B2B events and brands in markets including Engineering, Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, and Health & Nutrition, among others. We provide customers and partners around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, specialist digital content and actionable data solutions. As the world's leading exhibitions organizer, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, visit www.informamarkets.com About MEDevice MEDevice, an MD&M event, is the leading North American event brand for the medical technology industry, connecting engineers and cutting-edge medtech companies annually in the most prominent U.S. healthcare hubs. Visitors at the MEDevice events will learn from hands-on demo's, presentations from OEMs, keynote presentations, innovation showcases, an all-new medical adhesives pavilion, matchmaking and networking opportunities. MEDevice is organized by Informa Markets Engineering and includes MEDevice Boston and MEDevice Silicon Valley, as well as MD&M West, MD&M South, MD&M Minneapolis and MD&M East. Official listed media partners include Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry (MD+DI) and DesignNews. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com Media Contact Informa Markets EngineeringEngineeringPR@ informa.com SOURCE: INFORMA MARKETS - ENGINEERING
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Chrome Hearts JP Reminds Buyers to Seize the Opportunity with the 30% Off Spring Sale Ending SoonNEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Chrome Hearts JP, the premier destination for authentic chrome heart products, urges buyers to make the most of its ongoing Spring Sale before it ends. With a remarkable 30% discount, the company notes, now is the perfect time for enthusiasts of the iconic Chrome Hearts brand to indulge in their favorite jewelry.The Spring Sale encompasses many coveted Chrome Hearts items, including rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and clothing. From the timeless American-inspired clothing pieces to the notorious jewelry collections, Chrome Hearts embodies a spirit of rebellion and luxury that resonates with its loyal fanbase."Chrome Hearts clothing exudes a devil-may-care attitude that defies conventional fashion norms," noted a company spokesperson. "Our online store offers an extensive selection of Chrome Hearts apparel, from t-shirts to hoodies, all reflecting the brand's fearless and anti-fashion ethos." Anyone taking advantage of the Spring sale, the spokesperson added, can rest assured that, authenticity is not just a promise; it's a guarantee. Each product in our lineup, the spokesperson noted, is certified as genuine Chrome Hearts, ensuring customers receive nothing short of the finest quality craftsmanship. Even better is that, the Spring Sale, comes with a 14-day return policy, providing buyers with added peace of mind and flexibility with their purchases.It is all part of Chrome Hearts JP focus on excellence that is also evident in the company's many positive reviews. The company's spokesperson makes note of this stating, "Thousands of happy customers have trusted us as their go-to source for authentic Chrome Hearts products. Our commitment to delivering genuine items directly from Chrome Hearts retailers in Japan has solidified our reputation as the best destination for Chrome Hearts enthusiasts worldwide." Overall, Chrome Hearts JP prides itself on providing a platform where individuals can express themselves authentically without conforming to societal expectations. For this reason, every product available at Chrome Hearts JP embodies this ethos of individuality and self-expression. Chrome Hearts JP has also made it easy for customers with its user-friendly website. Finding what one wants on the website is easy, and the payment process is relatively easy.This uniqueness and focus on excellence are evident in the many positive reviews that Chrome World JP receives online. The company has an excellent TrustScore of 4.4/5 on TrustPilot and numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers. It continues to consistently uphold its reputation for excellence in customer satisfaction and product authenticity to meet and exceed customer expectations.As the Spring Sale draws to a close, Chrome Hearts JP encourages buyers to seize the opportunity to acquire their favorite Chrome Hearts items at an unbeatable price. Whether it's a statement ring, a bold pendant, or a rebellious hoodie, now is the time to make a purchase that reflects your unique style and spirit at a fantastic discount of 30%.Chrome Hearts JP is a leading destination for authentic Chrome Hearts products imported directly from Japan. With a commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction, Chrome Hearts JP has established itself as the go-to source for Chrome Hearts enthusiasts worldwide.Contact: https://chromeworld.jp Send us an email at contact@ chromeworld.jp SOURCE: Chrome World
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Globe Life Inc. ("Globe Life" or "the Company") (NYSE:GL) and certain of its officers.Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Globe Life securities between May 8, 2019 and April 10, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/GL Case Details:According to the Complaint, Globe Life is an insurance company headquartered in McKinney, Texas, that offers a wide range of insurance products, including life insurance, mortgage protections, and supplemental health insurance. Globe Life operates five wholly owned insurance subsidiaries. The largest, by both premiums collected and number of sales agents employed, is American Income Life Insurance Company ("AIL").Throughout the Class Period, according to the Complaint, Globe Life touted its consistent revenue growth, particularly from AIL, which accounted for 50% of the Company's profits in 2022 and 2023. During the Class Period, Globe Life reported consistent premium revenue growth at the Company, led by consistent premium revenue growth at AIL. The Company also represented that its employees adhered to a Code of Conduct that expressly prohibited various forms of misconduct, and which required that all Globe Life employees comply with relevant laws and regulations, purportedly ensuring that the Company would maintain a workplace free from violence, threatening behavior, and illegal drugs.The Complaint alleges that as a result of Defendants' misrepresentations, shares of Globe Life common stock traded at artificially inflated prices throughout the Class Period.The truth emerged on April 11, 2024, when, according to the Complaint, investment research firm Fuzzy Panda published a report alleging that Globe Life had engaged in wide-spread insurance fraud, while permitting a culture of unchecked sexual harassment. Specifically, the report alleged that several Globe Life subsidiaries were underwriting policies for dead and fictitious people, as well as adding policies to existing users' accounts without their consent. In addition, the investment research firm uncovered evidence that the subsidiaries maintained a hostile workplace where sexual harassment, drug use, and sexual assault went unchecked - conduct that violated the Company's Code of Conduct.As a result of these disclosures, according to the Complaint, the price of Globe Life common stock declined $55.76, or 53%, from a closing price of $104.93 per share on April 10, 2024, to a closing price of $49.17 per share on April 11, 2024.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/GL or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Globe Life you have until July 1, 2024, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Nathan Miller332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz and Grossman, LLC
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RALEIGH, NC / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Issuer Direct Corporation (NYSE American:ISDR), ("Issuer Direct" or the "Company"), a leading communications company, is a supporting sponsor of CIRI's 37 th Annual Investor Relations Conference from Sunday, June 2 through Tuesday, June 4 in Calgary, Canada.This year's conference theme is Innovation Unleashed: The Future of IR and Investor Relations professionals will have the chance to network and learn more about the latest in the sector."We've attended CIRI's Annual Conference for many years and we're thrilled to be back to meet with our clients, see familiar faces, and make new connections," said Jennifer Hammers, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Issuer Direct. "This is a top investor relations conference and we're looking forward to sponsoring and hearing from some of the brightest minds in the industry." Issuer Direct offers many comprehensive solutions to ensure their customers' most important moments are reaching the right audiences.These offerings include:Industry-leading newswire Investor Relations websites Webcast and Teleconference solutions Event management software Media Monitoring, Pitching and Journalist Database###About Issuer Direct CorporationIssuer Direct is a leading communications company, providing solutions for both Public Relations and Investor Relations Professionals for over 16 years. Our comprehensive solutions are used by thousands of customers from emerging startups to multi-billion-dollar global brands, ensuring their most important moments are reaching the right audiences, via our industry-leading newswire, IR website solutions, events technology, and compliance solutions. For more information, please visitwww.issuerdirect.com Forward-Looking StatementsThis press 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 (the "Exchange Act") (which Sections were adopted as part of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "plan," "project," "prospects," "outlook," and similar words or expressions, or future or conditional verbs, such as "will," "should," "would," "may," and "could," are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated results, performance, or achievements for many reasons. The Company disclaims any intention to, and undertakes no obligation to, revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, a future event, or otherwise. For additional risks and uncertainties that could impact the Company's forward-looking statements, please see the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, including but not limited to the discussion under "Risk Factors" therein, which the Company filed with the SEC and which may be viewed at http://www.sec.gov/ For Further Information:Issuer Direct Corporation Brian R. Balbirnie Chief Executive Officer 919-481-4000 brian.balbirnie@issuerdirect.com Issuer Direct Corporation Jennifer Hammers EVP Sales & Marketing 919-481-4000 jennifer.hammers@issuerdirect.com SOURCE: Issuer Direct Corporation
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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until June 24, 2024to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE:LNC), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between November 4, 2020 and November 2, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Lincoln National and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-lnc/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byJune 24, 2024 .About the LawsuitLincoln National and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On November 2, 2022, post-market, the Company released its 3Q 2022 financial results, disclosing a net loss of $2.6 billion for the quarter, compared to a net income of $318 million for the third quarter of 2021 the previous year, due to "net unfavorable notable items of $2.0 billion, or $11.62 per share, related to the company's annual review of DAC and reserve assumptions," and that the Company "incurred a $634 million goodwill impairment to the life insurance business." On this news, the price of Lincoln's shares fell by $17.27, or 33.2%, to close at $34.83 per share on November 3, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume.The case is Meade v. Lincoln National Corporation, et al., No. 24-cv-01704.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, 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 www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Loop Energy Inc. ("Loop" or the "Company") (TSX:LPEN) today provides the following update on the strategic review process:The Company has limited financial resources. In order to extend its limited financial resources, the Company has reduced its workforce and now employs less than 15 people worldwide. The Company has engaged Alvarez & Marsal Canada ULC ("A&M") to advise the Company's Management and Board on strategic alternatives that may be available to the Company. If the Company is unable to raise additional capital, either through the sale of assets or the raising of additional funds, it may be required to consider alternatives which may include proceeding with an orderly winding-down of its operations that would not see Loop continue to operate as a going concern. Forward-Looking Warning This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflect management's current expectations and projections regarding future events. Forward looking information includes statements related to the next steps for Loop's strategic review process. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions (including without limitation assumptions with respect to negotiations with third parties, the current and future performance of the Company's products, growth in demand for the Company's products and the Company's ability to execute on its current strategy), and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control and could cause actual results and events to vary materially from those that are disclosed, or implied, by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with, and uncertainty regarding, the realization of costs savings from implementation of the Company's operating cost reduction program and benefits derived therefrom, the realization of electrification of transportation and hydrogen adoption rates, the elimination of diesel fuel and ongoing government support of such hydrocarbon fuels, the expected growth in demand for fuel cells in the commercial transportation market, our ability to obtain future patent grants for our proprietary technology and the effectiveness of current and future patents in protecting our technology as well as the other risk factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2024 and in its other disclosure documents. Loop Energy disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.Loop Energy Investor and Media Inquiries: Paul Cataford | investors@ loopenergy.com SOURCE: Loop Energy Inc
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WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / With a heavy heart, MEMRI mourns the passing, on April 16, 2024, of MEMRI Senior Analyst Emeritus Dr. Nimrod Raphaeli, at the age of 91.Born in his beloved Basra, Iraq, Dr. Raphaeli's was forced to flee with his family to Israel. There he attended university, coming to the U.S. on a Fulbright Scholarship for graduate studies in 1960, completing an MPA at U. Pitt., and a Ph.D. and Post-Doctoral Fellowship at U. Mich.In 1966, he moved back to Israel to join the faculty of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and in 1969, the family returned to the U.S. and he began a distinguished career at the World Bank. At the World Bank, Dr. Raphaeli headed technical assistance and development planning divisions; later, he moved into central operations, focusing on operations policy and coordination with other international organizations. In 1995, he became the World Bank's representative to the United Nations. He also served as a consultant to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). During his time at the World Bank and at the IMF, Dr. Raphaeli travelled all over the world, from Africa to Asia. He was also frequently interviewed by the international media on issues concerning politics in his home country Iraq and the economy of the Middle East.After retirement, in 2000, Dr. Raphaeli joined MEMRI as Senior Analyst of Economic Studies. Because of his great expertise, he also served as MEMRI Special Advisor in a range of fields, from Middle Eastern Studies to Russian and Chinese Studies.At MEMRI, he conducted groundbreaking work on Iraq, and was the first to translate the "Oil for Food" list of 270 prominent individuals and companies who were helping Saddam Hussein subvert UN sanctions against him. He then focused on the fall of Saddam and the fledgling democracy in Iraq, including the historic elections in which he assisted in voting campaigns for Iraqi expatriates. He also authored an Economic Blog for MEMRI, and continued contributing pro bono to MEMRI's work until his passing.Dr. Raphaeli was fluent in Arabic (his mother tongue), English, and Hebrew, and conversant in several Arabic dialects.He will be remembered by all of us at MEMRI for his wisdom, sharp intellect, elegance, dedication, resilience, generosity, and vast knowledge, and as a mentor to many. He will also be remembered for his deep love for his home country Iraq, which he never forgot despite being separated from it, and for his passion for classical Arabic language and literature.But legacy is not just about leaving something behind for others. It is primarily about leaving something in them, Dr. Raphaeli will be remembered most of all as a great, true, caring, loving, and inspiring friend.His sagacity, wit, and insights are deeply missed by all at MEMRI. Our deepest sympathies go out to Dr. Raphaeli's family, that over the years became an important and integral part of the MEMRI family. We will forever cherish Dr. Raphaeli's memory and hold him dear in our hearts.Read Dr. Nimrod Raphaeli's obituary in The Washington Posthere .Visit the archive of Dr. Nimrod Raphaeli's writings and analyses on the Middle East economy, policies, and social issues studies on MEMRI.orghere ABOUT MEMRIExploring the Middle East and South Asia through their media, MEMRI bridges the language gap between the West and the Middle East and South Asia, providing timely translations of Arabic, Farsi, Urdu-Pashtu, Dari, Turkish, Russian, and Chinese media, as well as original analysis of political, ideological, intellectual, social, cultural, and religious trends.Founded in February 1998 to inform the debate over U.S. policy in the Middle East, MEMRI is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. MEMRI's main office is located in Washington, DC, with branch offices in various world capitals. MEMRI research is translated into English, French, Polish, Japanese, Spanish, and Hebrew.MEMRI - Middle East Media Research Institute: www.memri.org MEMRI TV - www.memri.org/tv Jihad & Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) - www.memri.org/jttm Cyber & Jihad Lab (CJL) - www.memri.org/cjlab MEMRI Twitter: https://twitter.com/memrireports/ MEMRI YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC59Cpk70K2TwdmApJOTuW9g/videos MEMRI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memrireports/ Contact Information:MEMRI media@ memri.org 202-955-9070 www.memri.org SOURCE: Middle East Media Research Institute
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Q1 HighlightsMultiple Breakthrough Generative AI Patents IssuedYear Over Year Margin Improved by + 70%Cost cutting measures reduced operating loss by 47%Company is Exclusively focusing on large enterprise contracts which is anticipated to have a major impact on the business future quarters https://www.sedarplus.ca/landingpage/ TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Nextech3D.AI (OTCQX:NEXCF)(CSE:NTAR)(FSE:EP2), a frontrunner in generative AI-powered 3D modeling technology for major e-commerce entities such as Amazon, Miele, P&G, Kohls, and Wesfarmers Group's "Bunnings," other major e-commerce retailers reports its unaudited financial and operating results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2024.CEO Evan Gappelberg comments " I am pleased to present our financial and operational performance for the first quarter of 2024. Despite a slight year-over-year decline in revenue to $1,024,000, we have made significant strides in improving our profitability and operational efficiency through strategic cost-cutting measures and investments in technology. He continues " in Q1 2023 we had operational expenses of $1.7 mill per month while in Q1 our operational expenses showed a dramatic improvement as it dropped to about $850,000. We are seeing additional operational improvements in Q2 which again will increase our profitability as we drive towards bringing in additional deals and becoming cash flow positive in 2024".Financial PerformanceRevenue: Our revenue for Q1 2024 stood at $1,024,000 million. While this represents a decrease compared to the same period last year, it is important to note the transformative steps we have taken to enhance our business model which will have a material impact on profitability the rest of the year 2024 and beyond.Profit Margins: The most notable achievement this quarter has been the remarkable improvement in our profit margins. Through a combination of rigorous cost-cutting initiatives and strategic investments, particularly in AI technology and our operational move to India, we have seen our margins increase from 30% in 2023 to 51% in Q1 2024. This represents a 66% improvement.This positive trend continues into Q2 2024, where we are projecting margins to reach 70-80%, a +166% improvement compared to 2023. This significant increase in profitability underscores the effectiveness of our strategies and our commitment to operational excellence.Operational Highlights3D Modeling Business: We continue to excel in our core 3D modeling business, delivering thousands of high-quality 3D models to our largest customer, Amazon, on a monthly basis. While Amazon remains our biggest client, we have diversified our customer base and are not solely reliant on them.New Customer Acquisitions: In Q1, we had anticipated closing deals with several large enterprise S&P 500 companies. Although these deals have been deferred to Q2, we have successfully closed one major contract in Q2, which is expected to contribute an additional 10% to our Q2 revenue compared to Q1. Moreover, we are in advanced discussions with five enterprise customers, and we expect to finalize these agreements in Q2 and Q3 2024. We are now exclusively focused on large enterprise contracts which we anticipate will have a major impact on our business in the near future.Strategic InitiativesOur strategic move to India in late 2023 has been instrumental in enhancing our cost structure and scalability. The investment in AI technology has not only streamlined our operations but also positioned us at the forefront of innovation in the 3D modeling industry. These initiatives are critical to our long-term growth and competitive edge.Notable News from Q1 2024New AI-Powered 3D Model Search Tool: Earlier this month, the Company announced it had gone live with its proprietary AI-powered 3D model search engine. This advanced search engine integrates AI and computer vision technologies to refine and expedite the process of 3D modeling. Through the application of this unique technology, the Company is poised to enhance and quicken its internal 3D model creation workflow significantly. Furthermore, there are plans to market this search engine externally, potentially leading to substantial increases in revenue and profits.Expansion of AI Tech Team and Office Space: Nextech3D.ai has expanded its AI tech team and doubled its office space in Hyderabad, India, in response to increasing demand for our GPT AI platform and 3D model production. This expansion is a testament to the growing recognition of our technological capabilities and our commitment to meeting the rising market demand.Establishment of New Business Unit Targeting Jewelry Industry: On March 5, 2024, Nextech3D.ai established a new business unit led by a former META executive. This unit targets the jewelry industry with advanced GPT AI CAD-3D models, blockchain technology, and NFTs. This strategic move is expected to open new revenue streams and further diversify our business portfolio.Formation of AI Incubator and AI Acquisition & Development Division: On March 12, 2024, Nextech3D.ai announced the formation of an AI incubator and AI Acquisition & Development Division. This division has the potential for a 2024 IPO spin-out, reflecting our commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the AI sector.New Patent Issuance: We were granted a patent for our technology that generates three-dimensional (3D) models from two-dimensional (2D) images. This patent is pivotal to Nextech3D.ai's artificial intelligence technology, strengthening our intellectual property portfolio and reinforcing our competitive edge in the 3D model-making industry for eCommerce. This achievement validates our commitment to increasing shareholder value through investment in 3D-AI GPT patents and solutions.In conclusion, while Q1 presented challenges in terms of revenue, our proactive measures have substantially strengthened our profitability and market position. We are optimistic about the future and are confident that the steps we have taken will yield significant benefits in the coming quarters.PROACTIVE LINK TO Nextech3D.ai CEO Evan Gappelberg discuss results of Q1, 2024 VIDEO INTERVIEWFull SEDAR Filing can be found HERESign up for Investor News and Info -Click HereFor further information, please contact: Nextech3D.ai Evan GappelbergCEO and Director866-ARITIZE (274-8493)About Nextech3D.ai Nextech3D.ai or the "Company," (OTCQX:NEXCF)(CSE:NTAR)(FSE:EP2), is a versatile augmented reality and AI technology company that utilizes its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) to craft immersive 3D experiences at scale for E-COMMERCE. The Company's primary focus lies in creating high-quality 3D WebAR photorea
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LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Net Savings Link, Inc. (OTC PINK:NSAV), a cryptocurrency, blockchain and digital asset technology company, announced today a comprehensive update on the compliance and regulatory initiatives for its NSAVx https://nsavx.com/ CEX Exchange.Following the advancement of landmark cryptocurrency legislation House Bill H.R. 4763 on May 22, 2024, NSAV has outlined a detailed compliance roadmap for both Federal and State registrations: FINCEN Registration: NSAV is currently registered under MSB Registration Number 31000262776231 and is proceeding with additional registrations for NSAVx.com as a Wyoming corporation. State-Level Compliance: An application has been submitted to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) for a Money Transmitter License, a process expected to take 60-90 days. Following this, NSAV plans to extend its Money Transmitter applications to other states based on customer activity levels. AI-Managed Compliance Systems: NSAVx.com has integrated AI-managed Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) systems that link directly with the FINCEN reporting system, enhancing compliance and operational transparency. CFTC/NFA Engagement: NSAV is exploring registration requirements with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and National Futures Association (NFA). While there is no definitive roadmap, NSAV believes that registration as a Futures Commission Merchant (FCM), Swap Dealer (SD), Major Swap Participant (MSP), Commodity Pool Operator (CPO), and Commodity Trading Advisor (CTA) may be necessary. The company has initiated the registration process with the NFA and will fulfill all background checks, proficiency requirements, and pay all related fees dues. Global Registration Efforts: NSAV expects imminent approvals for their digital asset licenses in Singapore, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Additionally, applications are under review in Ireland, Dubai, and Lithuania. Particularly in Dubai, NSAV has been sponsored by an existing exchange, aiding the expedited licensing process. NSAV has commenced the required establishment of a new company in the UAE Free Zone and will register that company with the Ministry of Economy. NSAV will apply for two digital asset specific licenses in Dubai. The first is for the exchange(VARA VASP) and second, is for smart contract and blockchain development(VARA Cat-2). The company believes this process will begin the last week of May and will take approximately 60-90 days to complete.NSAV released the following statement, "Yesterday signaled monumental changes ahead for cryptocurrency and digital asset companies. It is our intent to have NSAV and NSAVx.com be at the forefront of compliance and regulation. By integrating AI-KYC and now AI-AML, we have signaled to both State and Federal regulators that we put compliance at the top of our business strategy." NSAV's vision is the establishment of a fully integrated technology company, which provides turnkey technological solutions to the cryptocurrency, blockchain and digital asset industries. The Company drives innovation in the digital currency space by developing advanced blockchain technologies, digital assets, and market solutions that bridge the gap between traditional business frameworks and the future of decentralized technology. Over time, the Company plans to provide a wide range of services such as software solutions, e-commerce, financial services, advisory services and information technology.For further information please contact NSAV at info@ nsavholdinginc.com For further information please contact NSAVx.com at hello@ nsavxmail.com The NSAV corporate website can be accessed at https://www.netsavingslinkinc.com The NSAV CEX website can be accessed at https://nsavx.com/ The AirdropX.co website can be accessed at https://www.airdropx.co/ The Swopx.io website can be accessed at https://www.swopx.io The NSAV Stock information website can be accessed at https://www.nsavstock.com The NSAVx Token website can be accessed at https://www.nsavxtoken.com/nsavx-token The NSAVx Discord Server can be accessed at https://discord.com/invite/7Q2Vv5NmKd The NSAV Twitter account can be accessed at https://twitter.com/nsav_tech This press release contains certain 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, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the ability of Net Savings Link, Inc. to accomplish its stated plan of business. Net Savings Link, Inc. believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward- looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Net Savings Link, Inc. or any other person.ContactNet Savings Link, Inc. info@ nsavholdinginc.com Media Contact Organization: Net Savings Link IncContact Person: James TiltonWebsite: https://www.nsavholdinginc.com Email: info@ nsavholdinginc.com Contact Number: +17185698815Address: 26 Grosvenor Street, MayfairAddress 2: W1K4QWCity: LondonCountry: United KingdomSOURCE: Net Savings Link Inc.
As the country's fertility rate declines to 'concerning' levels, TikToker Karina Irby has shared a common reaction faced by young Aussies declining parenthood.

Karina Irby, 33, detailed her 'confronting; encounter with a stranger after revealing she doesn't have, and doesn't want, kids. Source: TikTok

A woman in her thirties has shone a light on the reality of many Aussies who say they don't see themselves ever being parents. While it may not be surprising, it's a controversial, and some say worrying trend, that is highlighted by the data.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australian women are having fewer children, later in life  a trend that's concerning demography experts and policy makers alike. According to some young Aussies who declare they plan on eschewing parenthood, their decision is often met with utter bewilderment from strangers.

Gold Coast woman Karina Irby this week revealed a stranger's "confronting" response to her admission that she and her husband had no plans to have children. At 33, the business owner said a stranger assumed she "must have children". But after correcting her, Irby "saw the blood drain out of her face," she said.

"She just didnt quite understand why," Irby revealed in a video on TikTok. She said the interaction started as "friendly small talk" before the topic of kids came up after the woman "noticed" Irby was married.

The 33-year-old said the woman questioned "what are you going to do with your life?" without kids before claiming Irby would be "disappointed" with her decision later in life as there'll be no one to "take care of her when she's older".

"I would never choose to have children just so I can be taken care of when Im older, " Irby said in the clip.

What is Australia's current fertility rate?

In the early 2000s, then treasurer Peter Costello announced the "baby bonus"  a tax incentive for Australians to prioritise having children. It saw a rise in fertility in Australia to above 2.1 (babies per woman)  considered the "replacement rate" governments strive for.

However in 2020, Australias total fertility rate hit a low of 1.59, before rising slightly to 1.71 by 2021  only to drop again to 1.63 the following year where it remains.

"In terms of where fertility is right now, it's down  it's really low for Australian history," ABS demography director Phil Browning told the ABC recently.

If this trend persists, experts fear Australia will likely end up dealing with some big challenges  namely an ageing population and an under-sourced workforce trying to support it.

Reasons why fewer Aussies are starting families

The cost of living, housing shortages and more households with two parents in the workforce are said to be contributing to fewer Aussies having kids. The freedom appeal, uncertainty and life balance are also reasons for women choosing to be childfree  issues raised by Irby and others on social media.

Research from the University of Canberra found it costs between $13,166 to $30,472 to raise one kid every year until adulthood a total of $474,000 to $1,097,000 throughout their young life. What's more, the arrival of the first child reduces household income between 16 and 18 per cent on average  double that for single-parent households, according to a study out of the University of Melbourne.

Laura Henshaw, a popular podcaster, also admitted she is unsure whether she wants kids - an admission she says attracts a 'ridiculous' response from strangers. Source: Instagram

'Ridiculous' reaction to women not wanting kids

Like Irby, fitness influencer Laura Henshaw agrees the question about wanting kids is "incredibly loaded" and recently admitted she gets asked it, or a variation of it, quiet a lot. Speaking on the popular podcast, Kicpod, the 31-year-old admitted she's unsure whether she wants kids with her husband  and said the response she often gets is "ridiculous".

"The question is loaded, but the responses can be disheartening. I spoke with over 1000 women and those who have shared their feelings about not knowing if they want kids with friends and family have been met with its just a phase ... [or] youll change your mind, which is just ridiculous," she said

"These comments can make it feel like theres something wrong with us if we dont innately want to have children. Theres so much shame in not knowing, when there shouldnt be any at all."

Calls for government to act now

Demographer Amanda Davies said she can't see Australia's fertility rate changing any time soon unless the government acts now.

"There's certainly concern in the community that Australians aren't having more children, and what that will mean for Australia and how it's going to shape [the country]  these things can have an impact a generation later," she said, according to the ABC.

Peter McDonald, from the University of Melbourne, called for better work and family policies to help "increase the fertility rate" by improving the well-being of parents.

"In coming years, we need to closely monitor the number of children that Australian women are having to ensure that we are not falling into a low fertility trap," he said.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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SHERMAN OAKS, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Perfect Tax Relief , a leading provider of tax resolution services, has announced the integration of state-of-the-art AI tools into their service offerings. Leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, the company is streamlining solutions and enhancing client experiences, ultimately simplifying how individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of tax resolution.For over sixteen years, Perfect Tax Relief has been eliminating the friction in the tax process by creating new systems using the latest technologies, communications methods, electronic documents and productivity methods. The company was founded by CEO Adi Harari during the Great Recession of 2008, when unemployment hit 10%, the United States' GDP fell by over 4%, and taxable returns dropped to a 23-year low. Against this backdrop were a rising number of home foreclosures and increasing tax debt. Harari, a veteran of the client-centric mortgage banking industry, was concerned by the tax challenges faced by businesses and individuals and in 2009 created Perfect Tax Relief to offer tax consultation and relief services. Its team of professionals are experts in everything from the tax code to bankruptcy laws, finance and tax returns, and collections procedures. Perfect Tax Relief's solutions include freedom of information requests, collection appeals, IRS appeals, innocent spouse, bankruptcy, payment plans, unfiled tax returns, audit representation, investment fraud representation, and more.Harari explains that Perfect Tax Relief's commitment to innovating the industry has led to the company's incorporation of AI tools. "At Perfect Tax Relief, we are dedicated to using technology to stay ahead of the curve and deliver best-in-class solutions for our clients," he confirms. "By embracing AI, we are setting new standards for excellence in the tax resolution industry." Perfect Tax Relief is a full service tax firm that helps clients to navigate all types of tax disputes.Through its investment in AI tools, Perfect Tax Relief is increasing efficiency and accuracy across all stages of the tax resolution process. Its benefits include:Optimized Processes and Personalized Solutions: AI-powered algorithms will enable Perfect Tax Relief to analyze customer data more quickly, reducing the time required to resolve tax issues and deliver customized solutions to clients.Enhanced Accuracy: AI-driven systems will minimize the risk of human error, ensuring that Perfect Tax Relief's clients receive accurate and reliable advice and support throughout the tax resolution process.Improved Communication: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants enable seamless communication between clients and Perfect Tax Relief's experts, providing stronger support and guidance."We are excited to embrace the advent of AI tools as a means to enhance our ability to provide efficient and effective tax solutions for each of our clients at Perfect Tax Relief," says Harari. "By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, we aim to revolutionize the tax resolution process, delivering increased value and service." With the integration of its AI tools, Perfect Tax Relief will continue to focus on its mission: to transform the tax resolution experience by remaining small and nimble and offering top-notch client services. By using artificial intelligence to work smarter, faster, and more effectively, Perfect Tax Relief will be to provide tailored tax solutions for any economic climate, taking the burden off the shoulders of their customers.About Perfect Tax ReliefPerfect Tax Relief is a full-service tax firm that provides fast resolution through the settlement process. It removes the stress for individuals and businesses and also provides a roadmap for staying compliant in the future. Perfect Tax Relief's suite of services include wage garnishments, bank account levies, tax audits, tax preparation, and IRS appeals, among others.For more information about Perfect Tax Relief, please see itswebsiteor contact:Adi Harari, Perfect Tax Reliefinfo@ perfecttaxrelief.com1-888-222-8814 SOURCE: Perfect Tax Relief
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LAGUNA BEACH, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / World-renowned artist Vladimir Kush presents his new painting "Mother"Oil on Canvas (33.25"x 25"). The Metaphorical Realist unveiled his new artwork during his exhibition in Art Miami. A Captive Audience (another title by the artist) is the best way to describe the reaction from the crowds and attendants as they walked into Kush's world during the art fair.Mother From a distance, this painting looks as if it was painted in accordance with the Renaissance canons, as the Madonna with Child. But up close, we realize that it is a Muslim woman in a hijab, holding a blanket. But instead of a baby, there is a hand grenade. We can imagine that this grenade has become her "favorite child" in the act of vengeance after losing her family and children.A sketch or drawing from the artist with the same title was originally published in one of his books (Black & White Matters). This concept with a similar symbolism initiated the conceptualization onto the artist's easel and into the canvas. Kush is a classically trained artist and, in accordance with European tradition descending from the times of Albrecht Durer, understands that drawing is the basis of two-dimensional art.Since the early 2000's the American cultural environment accepted the artist and his vision. Metaphorical Realism and the Kush Fine Art brand were established. It is worth noting that he settled on an exotic island in the Pacific, of which he dreamed as a boy but could not visit from behind the Iron Curtain that was the Soviet Union. Now Kush owns several large high-end galleries across the United States: "Kush Fine Art",which are currently located in Las Vegas, Laguna Beach, and Miami Beach, and has permanent exhibitions worldwide.The internationally recognized artist features more than 400 titles of paintings and limited-edition prints, 80 bronze sculptures and many more art mediums including a jewelry line and a wearable art collection. When you visit Kush Fine Art Galleries, you will be served with warmth and an eye for your unique style as you seek the perfect piece to add to your collection. For more information, visit www.kushfineart.com or email at info@ kushfineart.com and follow Kush on Instagram, Facebook, Threads and X.Contact InformationJorge BarreraMarketing Directorjorge.barrera@vladimirkush.com SOURCE: Kush Fine ArtView the original press release on newswire.com
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 24, 2024 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is investigating potential claims on behalf of purchasers of Volkswagen AG ("Volkswagen" or "the Company") (OTC PINK:VWAGY). Investors who purchased Volkswagen securities are encouraged to obtain additional information and assist the investigation by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/VWAGY Investigation Details:On May 20, 2024, One America News published an article titled "Report: Investigation Finds BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Volkswagen Linked To Forced Labor In China." The article stated that a Senate Finance Committee investigation found that multiple major automakers, including BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, and Volkswagen, relied on forced labor in China by purchasing parts that were flagged by the U.S. government for links to forced labor camps in the western Chinese province of Xinjiang. The two-year investigation also found that BMW and Jaguar Land Rover continued importing the flagged parts as recently as last month, even after they were informed of the forced labor. Following this news, Volkswagen stock dropped that same day.What's Next?If you are aware of any facts relating to this investigation or purchased Volkswagen securities, you can assist this investigation by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/VWAGY . You can also contact Peretz Bronstein or his client relations manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC: 332-239-2660.There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Nathan Miller332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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Digital illusionist returned to his alma mater, Biola University, to share his 'Three-Step Guide to World Domination'LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 23, 2024 / Biola University celebrated the accomplishments of its 2024 graduating class with a keynote address from renowned digital illusionist and internet creator Zach King. Famous for his magical videos, which according to King Studio have garnered over 150 million followers, Zach returned to his alma mater to impart his wisdom and experiences to the new graduates.Zach's Biola's Commencement Speech Zach King Speaking at Biola's Commencement In his speech titled "Three-Step Guide to World Domination," Zach distilled his journey to success into three essential steps. First, Zach advised students to "prepare for rejection." Zach illustrated this point by recounting the story about how he was initially rejected from the film program at Biola, which was devastating to him at the time, ultimately enabling him to discover a little-known website called YouTube. Zach's second piece of advice to students was to "gamble on yourself." Again, drawing from his personal/professional experience, Zach describes how he gambled on himself and chose to pursue a rather unstable career in social media over a traditional regular-paying job.The third and final piece of advice was to "repeat steps one and two continuously." In sum, Zach's message emphasized the inevitability of setbacks and the importance of resilience, where rejection is not the end but simply a redirection, encouraging graduates to see each challenge as an opportunity for growth.Zach's message extended beyond the pursuit of personal success. He urged the graduates to embrace a higher calling of kindness in their endeavors. In this, he challenged his audience to maintain a balanced perspective of ambition and compassion when he stated, "I'm so excited that you're leaving here, pursuing your dreams  just be sure to look out for others along the way." Zach King's full Biola Commencement speech can be viewed here.Contact InformationZach King Teamhello@ zachkingteam.com SOURCE: King StudioView the original press release on newswire.com
Italys Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has proven more palatable than many Western leaders feared when the right-wing politician  some even called her a neo-fascist  became Italys prime minister in 2022. After all, she and her hard-right Fratelli dItalia (Brothers of Italy) party belong in the same political stable as the likes of Frances Marine le Pen and the National Rally.

On the campaign trail, Ms Meloni breathed fire against many of the European Unions (EU) cherished values, including LGBTQIA rights and the Brussels bureaucrats themselves. She also expressed sympathy, like other right-wingers, with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

But in office, she has proved to be a model citizen of the European, G7 and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Ms Meloni hasnt emulated the EU delinquent Viktor Orban, Hungarys prime minister, as many expected. She has fully supported Brussels and NATO in backing Ukraine against Russia and has bolstered Italys alliance with the United States.

She also seems to share some of the EUs views on immigration  though her critics would probably say thats more because she has brought Brussels into her orbit than vice versa.

Last July, Ms Meloni, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a memorandum of understanding with Tunisian President Kais Saied. The EU agreed to direct budgetary support and accelerated EU funding related to macroeconomic stability, economy and trade, renewable energies, and people-to-people contacts.

In exchange, Tunisia agreed to cooperate with the EU on migration control. In particular, it would prevent migrant departures by sea, address migrant smuggling and trafficking, and assist in returning foreigners seeking to reach Europe from Tunisia to their home countries. In turn, the EU promised to enhance Tunisian citizens mobility to its member states.

The agreement was controversial in the EU, with some member states saying they werent properly consulted before it was reached. Their concern included Ms Von der Leyen doing a deal with Mr Saied, who has been dragging Tunisia down the slippery slope of autocracy.

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Ms Meloni has focused much attention on Tunisia  visiting it for the fourth time last month  apparently for two main reasons.

One is to establish Italy as a hub of African energy. The other is that Tunisia is a major launchpad to Europe for irregular migrants, and Italy is a leading destination. Although in 2024, Libya has been the main departure point and Spain the main point of arrival, many irregular immigrants make landfall in Italy. Lucio Malan, the Italian Senates chief whip, recently said, Sicily is closer to Tunisia than Sicily is to Rome.

Controlling migration is probably one of the main drivers of Ms Melonis Africa policy. Among her other surprises was the first Italy-Africa summit in Rome in January, under the theme A Bridge for Common Growth. It attracted 20 African government leaders and representatives from 46 countries  including Mr Saied. Also in attendance were leaders of the African Union (AU), African Development Bank, EU and International Monetary Fund.

The summit inaugurated the year of Italys G7 presidency and allowed Ms Meloni to punt her so-called Mattei Plan for Africa, ostensibly based on the cooperation as equals principle. It has six pillars  education, health, energy, water, agriculture and infrastructure.

In her speech to the summit, Ms Meloni underscored energy, saying Italys goal was to help African nations that are interested in producing enough energy to meet their own needs and then exporting the excess to Europe, combining two needs: Africas need to develop this production and generate wealth, and Europes need to ensure new energy supply routes.

She said Italy had been working for some time with the EU on building the connection infrastructure for this energy bridge, citing for example the ELMED electricity interconnection between Italy and Tunisia, and the new SoutH2 Corridor to transport hydrogen from North Africa to central Europe, passing through Italy.

Ms Meloni said the Mattei Plan aimed to unleash Africas potential and guarantee Africas youth the right not to be forced to emigrate, and not to have to cut your roots in search of a better life, which is increasingly difficult to achieve in Europe.

The EU representatives generally welcomed Italys plan. Ms Von der Leyen praised it as consistent with the European Global Gateway initiative, which includes a Europe-Africa investment package of 150 billion. As has been observed, it will be essential to integrate the Mattei Plan into an EU frame, as the 5.5 billion announced by Ms Meloni isnt enough to develop a continent-wide strategy.

In his response, AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Mahamat lamented Italys lack of consultation with Africa before announcing the Mattei Plan. Yet he apparently agreed with her in principle that the only effective strategy for managing migratory flows was transforming the vast regions of poverty, exclusion and human suffering into a space of prosperity and development.

There have been other criticisms. A group of mainly environmental African non-governmental organisations rebuked Italy for not consulting civil society and for focusing the plan on fossil fuels. Other critics expressed concern about the EU jeopardising its values by collaborating with the likes of Mr Saied, and for essentially buying the support of African countries to keep migrants at bay.

Some are suspicious of Ms Von der Leyens support for the Mattei Plan, noting she faces a difficult re-election next month, against growing support for EU anti-immigrant right-wing parties.

Ms Meloni did win a rather unexpected endorsement from African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina, who met her the day after the summit. He declared that the African Development Bank was ready to work with the Italian government because the Mattei Plan fits into the priorities of the Bank  You can count on the African Development Bank as your partner of choice.

Mr Adesinas approval suggested to Italys Istituto Affari Internazionali that despite its many faults, Ms Melonis plan could be salvaged by wider consultation within Africa, not just with elites, and integrating it into a broader European framework.

Peter Fabricius, Consultant, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Pretoria

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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The Federal High Court, Lagos Division, has ordered a temporary forfeiture of $4,719,054 million and N830,875,611 million traced to a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele.

The judge, Yellim Bogoro, made the forfeiture order on Thursday after the EFCC filed an ex-parte request to seize the assets.

An ex-parte application refers to proceedings brought before a court on behalf of an interested party without notice to an adverse party in a suit. It is entertained in the absence of the opposing party.

In granting the ex-parte motion Mr Bogoro, after he had taken submission of the EFCCs counsel, Bilkisu Buhari and C.C. Chinenye, held, I have listened to the submission of the applicants counsel and also perused the motion just moved, together with the affidavit in support.

I find merit in the application and same hereby granted as prayed.

Mr Bogoro ordered the anti-graft agency to publish this order in any daily newspapers circulating all over the federation for anybody who is interested, to show cause why the final order of forfeiture should not be made.

The forfeited funds to the federal government in the interim were said to be warehoused in some banks operated by Omoile Anita Joy who is on the run; Deep Blue Energy Service Limited; Exactquote Bureau De Change Ltd; Lipam Investment Services Limited; Tatler Services Limited; Rosajul Global Resources Ltd and TIL Communication Nigeria Ltd.

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The suit was adjourned until 2 July for the hearing of the application for final forfeiture of the properties.

Mr Emefiele, who faces multiple corruption charges in Lagos and Abuja, may also lose several assets that have been linked to him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Mr Emefieles properties forfeited to the federal government include; 94 Units of 11 Storey building under Construction at 2, Otunba Elegushi 2nd Avenue (Formerly Club) Road, iKoyi, Lagos; AM Plaza, 11 Story Office Space, situated on 1E, Otunba Adedoyin Crescent, Lekki Peninsula Scheme 1, Lagos; and Imore Industrial Park 1, Esa Street, Imoore Land purchased with (Deep Bive Industrial Town, Oriade LCDA, Amuwo Odofin LGA, Lagos.

Others are Mitrewood and Tatler Warehouse (Furniture Plant at Bogije) near Elemoro Lagos, Owolomi Village, ibeju-Lekki LGA, Lagos and 2 properties purchased from Chevron Nigeria, Closed PFA Fund, Block B.Lot.Twin Completed Property Lakes Estate. Lekki, Lagos.

One plot measuring 1,038.069 sqm, at Lekki Foreshore Estate Scheme, Block A, Plot 4, Foreshore Estate, Eti-Osa, LGA; Estate located at 100, Cottonwood Coppel Texas Drive, Coppel, Texas, Owned by Lipam investment Services; a Land at 1, Bunmi Owulude Street, (Maruwa), Lekki Phase 1, Lagos and a Property Situate on 8, Bayo Kuku Road, lkoyi Lagos are also among the properties the former CBN governor will forfeit.

EFCCs application seeking forfeiture of the assets was based on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offence Act. 14 2006, Section 44(2)(b) of the Constitution and under the inherent jurisdiction of the court.

The commission urged the court for an Interim Order forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria the funds warehoused in the accounts particularized in Schedule A which funds are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

An Interim order forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria Properties provided in 2nd Schedule B which are proceeds of unlawful activities.

An Order directing the publication in any National Newspaper, the interim order under reliefs 1-2 above, for anyone who is interested in the properties and funds sought to be forfeited to appear before this Honourable Court to show cause within 14 days why the final order of forfeiture of the said properties and funds should not be made in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Since Mr Emefiele was relieved of his job in July 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, he has shuttled between Lagos and Abuja attending court proceedings in multiple fraud suits against him.

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The attention of the Federal High Court of Nigeria management has been drawn to purported contract agreement between the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Nigeria and the Discovery Group Latam DAS, in which an electronic mail was generated from the courts official email address to some foreign nationals. In the said email, the sender masqueraded as the Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Sulaiman Amida Hassan Esq, asking the prospective contractor, Diego Fraga of Discovery Group Latam SAS to either come to Nigeria or have their legal representative sign a contract attestation at the Federal High Court in Nigeria.

The Federal High Court of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public both at home and in diaspora to disregard the unfounded contract between Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Nigeria and the Discovery Group Latam SAS. The court did not issue any mail requesting the presence or legal representation of anyone or corporate entity.

Should you encounter any suspicious activity or receive questionable communication purportedly from the Court, we strongly advise you to immediately report such correspondence to the relevant authorities, including law enforcement agencies or our official contact channels. EMAIL: info@fhc.gov.ng : fhc.informationdepartment@gmail.com TELEPHONE : +234 8033883107 : +234 8066267618

Furthermore, be warned that should you choose to proceed with any interaction or transaction despite being alerted to potential risks, you do so entirely at your own discretion and liability. The Federal High Court of Nigeria bears no responsibility for any consequences resulting from such voluntary actions. Thank you for your vigilance and cooperation in maintaining a secured environment and safe cyberspace for all.

Federal High Court of Nigeria, 2024.

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An Emeritus Professor of English and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Ayo Banjo, is dead at the age of 90.

This was confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES by the immediate past vice-chancellor of the university and a mentee of the deceased, Idowu Olayinka, a professor of geology.

Mr Olayinka said he first saw the news on the group page of the Chapel of Resurrection- where Mr Banjo worshipped.

I later found out from the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and he confirmed it, Mr Olayinka told our reporter in a telephone interview.

The former vice-chancellor later shared his tribute to the deceased with the newspaper.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the university, Joke Akinpelu, said she was yet to confirm the development and promised to revert as soon as she was officially informed.

She was, however, yet to revert to the newspaper as of the time of filing this report.

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About Banjos death

It is still unclear the circumstances that led to the death of the deceased, but multiple sources confirmed to this newspaper that the aged scholar had been weak and unable to attend public events for months.

Mr Banjo, who has served within Nigerias education sector in various capacities, marked his 90th birthday on 2 May.

Since his service to the University of Ibadan, first as acting vice-chancellor between November 1983 and November 1984 and as substantive vice-chancellor between December 1984 and November 1991, his last public office was as the Chairman of the Governing Council of the National Universities Commission (NUC).

He also served as the governing council chairman of some universities, including the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, among others.

Tribute

In his tribute to the deceased, UIs immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Olayinka Idowu, described Mr Banjo as an icon and an eminent citizen of the world.

Titled: Adieu Professor Ayo Banjo, 1934 to 2024, Mr Olayinka, who described himself as a mentee of the deceased, said the death of Mr Banjo had marked the end of an era.

He wrote: I have just learned of the transition of Professor Emeritus Ladipo Ayo Banjo, the longest serving Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (1984 to 1991). This is very sad news, even at a ripe old age of 90 yearsthe end of a most glorious era. Rest in perfect peace, Baba. You will be sorely missed by all of us who knew you.

Heartfelt condolences to his entire family and to all of us, his mentees and academic children. We valued your wise counsel at all times. You were highly approachable. An icon. An eminent citizen of the world. The gift of UI to humanity.

It hurts very deeply to start referring to you in the past tense. Nonetheless, we thank God for your life of selfless service and worthwhile legacies. Good night, Sir.

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Troops of the Nigerian Army have, in recent anti-kidnapping operations, apprehended some kidnap kingpins and informants in the Federal Capital Territory and Oyo State.

The Nigerian Army made this known in a post on its official X Handle on Friday.

It said the operations were based on credible intelligence to troops on Thursday in the Bwari Area Council of the territory.

The army said the troops raided a suspected kidnappers hideout in Ajegunle Mpape, targeting a notorious informant known for harbouring kidnappers.

According to the post, troops apprehended an informant suspect named Ashiru Mohammed with two female accomplices, Raham Abubakar and Sadiya Mohammed, during the operation.

It added that the suspects had one Beretta pistol, one pistol magazine and 21 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

It also revealed that five ATM cards from different banks, two mobile phones and suspected illicit drugs were recovered from suspects who are currently helping in further investigations.

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In Oyo State, the army said that its troops raided a kidnap syndicate operating around Sepeteri in the Shaki general area of the state.

It said that troops intercepted a suspected kidnapper, Usman Mohammed Aliyu, during a stop-and-search operation along the Igboho-Igbeti Road in Igbeti Local Government Area.

According to the post, the suspect was found in possession of a cash sum of N400,000.

During further investigation, Aliyu confessed to being involved in cattle rustling and kidnapping.

The suspects will be handed over to appropriate prosecuting agencies after investigations.

These coordinated operations are indicative of the Nigerian Armys commitment to maintaining security and combating criminal activities in synergy with other security agencies across the country.

The arrests and seizures are expected to significantly disrupt the operations of kidnap syndicates and other criminal networks in the affected areas, it added.

(NAN)

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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said the troops of the armed forces in the last week killed no fewer than 253 terrorists, apprehended 172 suspects and rescued 206 kidnapped hostages.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, a major general, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Buba said the troops also apprehended 15 perpetrators of oil theft and denied oil thieves an estimated sum of N1.07 billion in the Niger Delta during the week.

He said troops recovered 251 assorted weapons and 4,113 assorted ammunition comprising one GPMG, 118 AK47 rifles, 54 locally fabricated guns, 47 dane guns, six pump action guns, four IED, 60mm mortar tube, two AK butts, MRAP and one bandolier.

Others according to him are 2,047 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 942 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 98 rounds of 9mm ammo, 342 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm, 334 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm, 252 rounds of 7.62 x 51mm and 110 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ball.

Recovered items also include 299 live cartridges, 32 magazines, 2 baofeng radios, 2 KYD radios, 8 vehicles, 41 motorcycles, 27 bicycles, 41 mobile phones and the sum of N74.7 million amongst other items.

Troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and destroyed 22 dugout pits, 37 boats, 70 drums, four receivers, four reservoirs and 29 storage tanks.

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Other items include 215 cooking ovens, 13 vehicles, four wheelbarrows, one tricycle, one motorcycle, five mobile phones, one speedboat, two KYD radios, two outboard engines and 75 illegal refining sites.

Troops also recovered 1.04 million litres of stolen crude oil and 205,550 litres of illegally refined AGO.

Mr Buba said the operations across the country were a testament to the tireless effort of the military to prevent anarchy, unrest and national security destabilisation.

He urged citizens to extend utmost respect to the armed forces, rather than degrade the institution, saying it would be counterproductive and amounts to self-sabotage to do otherwise.

According to him, the military remains steadfast in its role as an element of national power utilised to protect and project the national interest of the nation.

(NAN)

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A renewable natural gas project is being planned in Aurelius.

Developer Novilla RNG would lead the project, titled Morning Light RNG, at O'Hara Farms at 1136 Chamberlain Road. According to materials submitted by the developer to the Cayuga County General Municipal Law 239-l, m & n Review Committee, the project would involve a 2.5-million gallon digester and produce the equivalent of 575,000 gallons of gasoline a year.

The committee met May 16 to review Novilla's proposal, but did not take action on it. County planner Javier Zavaleta told The Citizen the committee asked the developer to provide an updated soil erosion and sedimentation control plan, and updated engineering drawings that conform to New York standards and remove references to standards from other states.

The town of Aurelius is waiting for the committee's input before starting its own review process, Supervisor Ed Ide told The Citizen.

In an October 2023 presentation to the town, Novilla said that it has worked on about a dozen renewable natural gas projects in Iowa, Wisconsin, Vermont and more. The process sees dairy manure go through an anerobic digester to create biogas that is then upgraded for injection into a NYSEG pipeline, with remaining manure recycled into fiber bedding and stored in a lagoon.

A similar renewable natural gas project was completed at Spruce Haven Farm in Fleming in 2022.

The Aurelius project would include construction of a 50-by-60-foot office and equipment building, and 53-foot biogas process containers.

Novilla said the project would create two "highly skilled" full-time jobs and dozens of construction jobs, as well as ongoing work for electricians and other vendors. The project would also "future-proof" agriculture and the economy in the area, the developer continued, as dairy farms with digesters are more attractive to milk customers due to their lower carbon emissions.

The October 2023 presentation said Novilla hoped to break ground on the project in April, begin production in late 2024 and achieve steady state operation in early 2025.

Novilla did not respond to a request by The Citizen for an updated timeline.
The House of Representatives, on Thursday, passed a bill to revert to the old National Anthem. The process was done in the green chamber amid opposition from lawmakers across party lines.

The bill, sponsored by the House Leader Julius Ihonvbere (APC, Edo) and titled: Act to Provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria, and for Matters Related, was given a speedy passage during plenary.

Tinubus interest in old anthem

The manner of passage of the bill in the House and the Senate gives the impression of vested interest in the legislation.

President Bola Tinubu has in the past advocated the adoption of the old National Anthem in place of the current anthem.

In 2011, Mr Tinubu, as the leader of one of the main opposition parties, called for the adoption of the anthem in place of the current one.

Abandoning the post-independence anthem, which arguably evoked a strong spirit of patriotism and brotherliness, to compose a very drab replacement, is far less inspirational, Mr Tinubu said during a speech at the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

During the presidential campaign, Mr Tinubu also expressed hope to return to the old anthem.

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He will mark a year in office on Wednesday. Although the president has ordered a low-key celebration, however, this old anthem may provide a symbolic win.

The 2014 National Conference also recommended the adoption of the old anthem. The conference regarded the old anthem as a better symbol of unity, peace and prosperity.

Closed door session

The House commenced Thursdays session around 11:15 a.m. but later dissolved into executive session that lasted about 40 minutes.

It is unclear what the lawmakers discussed behind closed doors though sources said it was not unconnected with the issue of the anthem.

Upon resumption, the lawmakers continued legislative activities, but the presiding officer, Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, later introduced a supplementary order which had only the Anthem Bill.

From first to third reading

Following the introduction of the bill, Mr Ihonvbere led the debate on its general principle. He said the current anthem lacks the rigour of the old.

I have taken time to look at the old anthem and the new, and as a Nigerian who has been involved in the struggle to make Nigeria a better place either as a student to the student union movement including the Ali must go movement or as a university teacher; having been secretary, vice chairman and chairman of ASUU or as a pro-democracy activist who spent twelve and a half years in self-exile, I believe that the old anthem, encompasses, contains, exudes the kind of energy, resourcefulness and a sense of vision that I believe is good for Nigeria, he said.

Speaking on the bill, the Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, countered the submission of the leader, stating that the old anthem is a symbol of the past.

He also highlighted the fact that it was written by Lillian Jean Williams and composed by Frances Berda, who he described as a symbol of colonialism.

While it is our function to make laws, but for every law there must be a spirit to it. If we are asked what is the essence of this law? Mr Chinda, a lawmaker from Rivers State, said.

He said there must be a clear cause to make law, and that the lawmakers will be taking ourselves back by passing the bill to revert to the old National Anthem.

What value will it add to us as a nation? I stand to oppose it. I asked the leader to withdraw the bill, he said.

Ahmad Satomi (APC, Borno) also spoke against the bill by calling into question the usefulness of the bill to hunger and insecurity.

Lets do something that will bring development in the eyes of the international community. Let us think of something that will bring progress, he said.

Another Borno State lawmaker, Ahmad Jaha (APC, Borno) supported the bill by questioning the content of the current anthem.

Following the conclusion of the debate, Mr Kalu put the bill to voice vote and the voice of those who said nays were louder but he ruled in favour of those who said ayes.

The ruling generated mild uproar in the House as some lawmakers expressed disapproval.

Unperturbed by the dissenting voices, the deputy speaker, rather than referring the bill to a committee for public hearing, listed it for consideration at the Committee of the Whole.

At the Committee of the Whole, the opposition to the bill appeared to have waned as only the minority leader raised concerns over the typos in the bill but Mr Kalu got his way.

Following the clause-by-clause consideration at the committee, Mr Kalu listed the bill for the third reading and it scaled when it was put to vote.

Content of the bill

Clause three of the bill makes it mandatory for the anthem to be recited at some of the following events:

Opening and closing ceremonies of Federal Executive Council, and State Executives Council meetings.

Opening and closing of sittings of Legislative Houses in Nigeria,

Constitutional oath-swearing ceremonies,

Flag-raising ceremonies,

Major celebrations, major award ceremonies, major commemorative ceremonies, national memorial ceremonies and the like, which are organized by MDAs,

Major diplomatic activities,

Major sporting events,

Other occasions as may from time to time, be determined by the minister responsible for education with the consent of the president.

Furthermore, clause four forbids the alteration of the lyrics of the anthem

The Performance and singing of the national anthem shall follow the lyrics prescribed by the Federal Government of Nigeria, clause 4 of the bill reads.

The bill also proposed that The Ministry responsible for information shall organise the review and approval of the standard for performance of the national anthem, and record the official recording of the national anthem to be played.

The standard and official recorded versions of the national anthem shall be published on the Federal Government of Nigerias website.

According to the bill, the lyrics of the anthem is going to form parts of the civic education curriculum in primary and secondary schools.

Primary and Secondary schools shall make the lyrics of the national anthem part of the civic education and organize pupils and students to learn the national anthem, clause seven reads.

The bill is proposing to make the second stanza of the current national anthem the national prayer.

The bill also passed second reading in the Senate and is expected to be passed by the upper chamber before it is sent to President Tinubu for assent.

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Nigerias Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, has restated the governments support for Air Peace Airlines following revelations that the airline was accused of safety violations in the UK.

In a statement issued Wednesday and posted on his official X page, Mr Keyamo said his attention has been drawn to the issue and that he has been reliably briefed about the incident.

My attention has been drawn to recent media publications citing some issues allegedly relating to possible safety violations at the Gatwick Airport by Air Peace Airlines raised by Safety inspectors of the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority, the minister said.

He said Air Peace Airlines is the Nigerian flag carrier designated on the London route and as such enjoys the full backing and support of the Nigerian government in its operation of that route.

Mr Keyamo also said he has been briefed that the alleged violations have been resolved.

I am informed that the safety issues raised had since been adequately addressed by the Management of Air Peace and promptly closed to the satisfaction of the UK authorities, Mr Keyamo said.

Background

Mr Keyamos reaction came after the UK Civil Aviation Authority reported Air Peace to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), over the airlines alleged non-compliance with some safety regulations in the UK.

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Air Peace, a Nigerian indigenous airline, commenced flight operations from Lagos to Gatwick Airport in London on 30 March, less than two months ago. It eventually got approval from the Aviation Minister to include Abuja in its London route.

Air Peaces entry into the Lagos-London route is believed to have brought down the flight prices on that route by other airlines.

Before the commencement of Air Peaces London services, the price of an international flight ticket on the Lagos-London route was around N3 million but Air Peace pegged its return economy class ticket at N1.2 million.

Many other international airlines including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have since reduced their prices.

On Wednesday, the minister reiterated that the federal government has full confidence in Air Peace and other Nigerian flag carriers.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government of Nigeria has put its full weight and might behind all the local airlines designated on international routes in their endeavours in prosecuting these operations and shall provide all the necessary assistance and cooperation to ensure their success. Air Peace is no exception in this regard, the minister said.

Air Peace reacts

In a statement issued earlier by Air Peace management on the issue, the airline confirmed that it received a letter from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

We can confirm that the UK Civil Aviation Authority wrote to Air Peace, after their statutory Ramp Inspection on April 7, 2024, to request clarification on our use of the Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) and some other concerns, the statement said.

Based on that, the airline said it provided the necessary information, and the matter was resolved without any issues.

Additionally, Air Peace said, It is, therefore, wrong to say we do not have approval for our EFB. Air Peace received approval from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and all our Boeing 777 aircraft are certified to operate with EFBs.

Violation claims

The Nigerian airline added, Regarding the claim that our B777 aircraft lack iPad mounts and charging ports in the flight deck, this is incorrect. All B777 aircraft are equipped with charging ports in the cockpit, and we ensure that all our B777 aircraft have iPad mounts.

The Airline noted that another issue raised by the UK CAA was the location of the cockpit library on the B777.

In response, Air Peace explained that the B777 designates two locations for storing manuals and booksone behind the captain and the other under the jumpseat.

During the inspection, Air Peace said, the books were stored under the jumpseat, as it is commonly practised.

The airline said it understands the inspectors preference is for the books to be placed behind the captain and has ensured this preference is accommodated for all operations going forward.

Air Peace stated that there was also a concern about its captains choice of runway exit after landing, noting that instead of exiting at the middle runway exit, its captain, out of his professional discretion, opted to exit at the end of the runway. This, it said, may have delayed the arrival of another aircraft.

We acknowledge this deviation and have addressed the matter with the captain to ensure adherence to preferred exit procedures in the future, the airline said, adding that it assures passengers of its commitment to safety and full compliance.

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Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Lamido Sanusi, is in Kano and set to receive his letter of reinstatement as the Emir of Kano at the Government House in the city.

PREMIUM TIMES observed Governor Abba Yusuf and his officials at the Government House preparing to receive Mr Sanusi for the presentation of his letter of reappointment as the sole first-class Emir of the state.

The preparation came despite the Federal High Court in Kano on Thursday restraining the governor and the state government from implementing the new emirate law under which Mr Sanusi was reinstated.

The law, passed on Thursday by the state House of Assembly and assented to immediately by Governor Yusuf, dissolved the four emirates carved out of the Kano emirate in 2019 and removed the emirs.

Governor Yusuf, on Thursday, reinstated Mr Sanusi four years after he was deposed.

The four additional emirates were created by the immediate past administration of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, who also appointed the five emirs after removing Mr Sanusi.

Mr Yusuf said he reinstated Mr Sanusi in fulfilment of a campaign promise. The governor said the new law provided for the reinstatement of Mr Sanusi and the removal of the former emirs of Kano, Gaya, Karaye, Bichi and Rano.

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But in a Thursday ruling, Justice AM Liman, in suit number FHC/KN/CS/182/2024, ordered the state government and the other parties involved to stop the implementation of the new emirate law pending the hearing of the substantive case.

A title holder in Kano emirate, Aminu Danagundi, filed the suit to challenge the governments decision.

The reinstated Emir has arrived in Kano in preparation to resume office. He was scheduled to be at the Abacha House, a chamber at the Kano Government House, to receive his reinstatement letter.

PREMIUM TIMES understands that officials planned to conclude the reinstatement ceremony before noon.

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Former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwakso, has explained his personal grudge against the Kano Emirate Council Law 2019, repealed on Thursday by the state House of Assembly.

Mr Kwankwaso, the leader of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) ruling in the state, said the law was unfair to his ancestral locality.

Mr Kwankwakso is from Kwankwakso in Madobi Local Government Area. He said the town is located less than 25 kilometres from the palace of the Emir of Kano and should have been in Kano, Kura or Rano emirate but was shifted to far away Karaye Emirate out of a grudge against him by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the state lawmakers on Thursday passed a bill for the dissolution of the four additional emirates created by the administration of Mr Ganduje and the removal of the five emirs.

Governor Abba Yusuf signed the bill repealing the 2019 law on Thursday and has reinstated Lamido Sanusi as the sole first-class emir of Kano.

Speaking on the development in an interview with BBC Hausa Service on Friday, Mr Kwankwakso, however, said the lawmakers or the governor did not consult him before they took the decision.

I hope to be in Kano to discuss with some of the lawmakers, especially the speaker, the governor, to brief me about how they arrived at the decision they took.

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Mr Kwankwakso, in the interview, dodged several questions on his involvement in the administration of Governor Yusuf.

He had in January, at a press conference, said the government would revisit the state Emirate Council Law 2019.

When I said we will revisit the emirate council law 2019, I was not specific about it, and now they have done that. I will get to them and find out about the issue beforehand.

The repealed law was enacted to despise us. For instance, I am from Madobi Local Government Area, from my town to the Emirs palace in Kano is just 25 kilometres drive, but (in the repealed Kano Emirate Council Law 2019) they took us to Karaye Emirate. The ordinary people of Madobi has no link whatsoever with Karaye; they should have instead take us to at least Kura or Rano (Emirates), Mr Kwankwakso said.

Mr Kwankwakso also dodged a question on whether the decision to scrap the five emirates councils could deepen division and animosity amongst the residents.

He blamed Mr Ganduje for setting the precedent that led to the developments. He said Mr Ganduje was not tolerant of Mr Sanusis criticism as he was of the late emir, Ado Bayero.

The question is that before people, has the former governor done the right thing? The decision to scrap the emirates is not to spite Ganduje; has he done the right thing? was the creation of the emirates done with good intention?

He also expressed concern that emirship seats, like that of a governor, could become tenured, depending on the governor in power.

The people expressing concern over the politicisation of the traditional institutions may be right, but who started it? When I came back on board as governor in 2011, everybody knows that the late Emir Ado Bayero did not support us; he supported former governor Ibrahim Shekarau.

People were agitating for me to dethrone the late Emir, but after I won the election, I never attempted to remove him. We just calling on people to remain where they are in their respective positions, Mr Kwankwaso said.

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The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, says the federal government has set aside N260 billion to revitalise the Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the country.

Mr Pate disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday at the Ministerial Sectoral Briefings organised by the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to mark the first anniversary of President Bola Tinubus administration.

He said the move was in line with President Bola Tinubus directive and the fund is available at the state levels through International Development Association (IDA) financing and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

N260 billion is currently available at the state level for the revitalisation of their primary healthcare centres, he stated.

The minister emphasised the governments strategic focus on primary healthcare as the foundation of a robust health system.

Our goal is to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of their location, has access to quality healthcare services. By revitalising these primary health centres, we can provide essential health services closer to the people, thereby reducing the burden on tertiary healthcare facilities, he said.

Mr Pate noted that this financial injection would address several challenges faced by primary healthcare centres, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of essential medical supplies, and insufficient staffing.

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This funding will enable states to renovate existing facilities, procure necessary medical equipment, and employ additional healthcare workers to meet the increasing demand for healthcare services, he explained.

New oncology initiative

Mr Pate said the health ministry has launched a new oncology initiative aimed at improving cancer care through strategic medical investments.

He said the initiative includes the establishment of new oncology and nuclear medicine centres, the upgrade of existing facilities, and the deployment of modern medical infrastructure in participating tertiary institutions.

The fund, he said, was included in the 2024 budget of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to procure advanced cancer treatment equipment for six federal tertiary hospitals across Nigeria.

Mr Pate outlined the proposed state-of-the-art medical infrastructure to be deployed in the six selected teaching hospitals, representing the six geopolitical zones.

The equipment, he stated, includes linear accelerators, iridium brachytherapy machines, computed tomography (CT) simulators, positron emission tomography () scanners, and cyclotrons.

The Oncology Initiative has been included in the NSIA 2024 budget, with proposed cutting-edge medical infrastructure to be deployed in the six teaching hospitals selected from the six geopolitical zones to improve cancer treatment equipment, he said.

The minister also said 10 projects are being executed in the geopolitical regions to enhance healthcare services.

He said the Presidential Unlocking Healthcare Value-Chain Initiative, is designed to attract billions of dollars in new investments into the nations healthcare delivery system.

Mr Pate said this initiative involves a time-bound, cross-ministerial collaboration to restructure the ecosystem of health product manufacturing, health logistics services, health technology services, health retail services (e-commerce), health provider facilitation, and health payer reform.

Training and recruitment of health workforce

The minister announced that the ministry has engaged specialists to train 120,000 frontline health workers across the country by September.

Additionally, 2,400 healthcare workers will be employed to provide services in rural areas.

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President Bola Tinubu has called for a more effective local government system that fosters community development and delivers the essentials of governance within a strengthened federal structure.

Speaking when he received a delegation of the Yoruba Leaders of Thought at the State House on Friday, President Tinubu emphasized that governance must be transformative and must address the critical needs of citizens.

He said the past 12 months have been fulfilling for his administration despite the presence of some challenges that are being addressed frontally.

It has been challenging. It has been fulfilling as well. We took over, and we have stopped the bleeding. I can say categorically now that Nigeria is no longer bleeding. And it will not bleed to death, but rather will now move to prosperity. That is the promise that I made to you all, and it is also the charge that you gave to me.

We are managing to swim through the pond. The current is not a good one. We will turn the tide. We are turning the bend. This I assure you. I am being very careful. The worst is over for Nigeria. We will prevail.

I thank the team who have been working really hard. All I can promise is that we will do whatever it takes. We are determined, and we will work so that all Nigerians can feel the impact of good governance, the president said.

The president assured Nigerians that his administration will ensure they get value for every kobo spent, and that his government will leave a lasting legacy of prosperity to future generations while removing the yoke of poor governance and expanding access to qualitative public goods.

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We will get value for our money, and it is not for ourselves, but for our children. Our children will not inherit the burden of bad governance. Yet, they will enjoy the prosperity of Nigeria as a blessed nation from our very hands; from our sweat. We will bequeath to them a nation full of pride and prosperity, President Tinubu said.

President Tinubu also called for the deepening of governance and the reinforcement of leadership across all levels of government and institutions, adding that his administration is committed to encouraging fiscal federalism and strengthening the system to enhance inclusion and equity for all Nigerians.

Healthcare upgradation is ongoing. Road rehabilitation and construction is ongoing. Education development is ongoing. I am charging you to look at what is going on in the states. Pay attention to your state governors. Tell them to take their responsibilities seriously and make the people the focus of their development plans. Once there is synergy, then I can assure you that Nigeria will be one of the best nations that you will see anywhere on earth.

Local government administration is being suffocated. People are looking at the opportunity to ensure that they survive and become more purposeful through community development programmes. What I will not support is any effort to make the local government a unitary system by handing all core responsibilities to the federal government. That is criminal when there is a federal system.

We have a federal system. There is state and federal administration. We have two components. States must do whatever is in the best interest of their own process of administration. There is no one-size-fits-all. That is what we should do by looking at the revenue formula, and we must be consistent with federalism; fiscal federalism. Those are the things you should expect from me, not the knee-jerk reactions ahead of elections.

Our population is growing. It is getting larger. The geographical requirement is getting bigger, so we still want more space for housing. The population is growing. So that is the basis for flexibility at the local government level. We must grow and expand, the President said.

While thanking the delegation of eminent Nigerians, President Tinubu urged continuous support for and faith in Nigeria, assuring them that his government would live up to expectations.

I can tell you that Nigeria is no longer printing paper money and deceiving itself that it has a base for survival. Nigeria went through terrible labour pains, but we have seen the baby coming out alive, the President concluded.

In his remarks, Bayo Aina, the groups national secretary, who spoke on behalf of Tajudeen Olusi, convener of the Yoruba Leaders of Thought, commended the president for his prioritization of investment in infrastructure across various sectors.

We salute your timely initiative to upgrade, construct, and modernize the infrastructure of our nation in health, aviation, transportation, as well as the education sector. We commend you for your commitment to providing responsible, responsive, and accountable governance in this country.

At this point, we state without equivocation our total commitment to the vision of greatness that you have articulated, which is the destiny of Nigeria, not only within Africa but globally and among the comity of nations before the end of the 21st century, the National Secretary of the group concluded.

Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

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Some Nigerians have expressed outrage over the closure of the popular Banex Plaza in Abuja, saying the action of the military was indecent.

The Nigerians stated their views through various social media posts since the plaza was shut down some three days ago.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the Nigerian Army illegally locked up the popular electronic market in retaliation for the assault on two of its personnel last Saturday.

It was locked without any government consultation or court approval by the army on Tuesday.

However, the action of the army has drawn the ire of Nigerians who, on X, described it as improper and unlawful.

They further said the action was a misuse of power and a total disregard for democracy and conventions, adding that the military should go and fight terrorists.

Outrage

One X user @Umor Ebogidi indicated that such an action by the military could damage the reputation of the country and discourage potential investors from coming in.

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Those piloting the affairs of the state dont seem to realise that potential investors are watching and taking stock, he said.

Another user, @Femi Owolabi, claimed the military demonstrated the action recently in Delta state and it was swept under the carpet.

Similar thing happened with the Delta case. Soldiers took over the place, denying police access. Too bad, he said.

According to @Olufisayo, the action of the military was not only a misuse of power but a threat to democracy.

He stated further, As usual. Gestapo style. Powerful over unarmed civilians, jelly in front of bandits. The forest and Sambisa need shutting down, not plazas. This lawlessness will come round to bite them.

@Common person said, I wanted to comment the same but I was livid. They have no singular right under any law to close Banex and take people out of business in the name of whatever reasons. Unfortunately, the country is a lawless one. And for the Nigerian Army, lawlessness begets lawlessness

On his part, @Teddy Emegano posting from the UAE, said, My question is what or who sent the military to BanexThis time is not military impunity era. This is definitely a police call, not military. The military should go and pursue external aggression that has inroad in the North.not sending military to Banex of Biafra Land.

@Freegivee 2, said Nigeria is been (sic) run like a garrison, everyone uses their power anyhow and the stronger use power to oppress the weak.

The Army is becoming a nuisance in Nigeria. It is very annoying that they still want to be recognized after their unruly behaviors, @Araba Kpura posted.

Army action, violation of International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights  Group

Meanwhile, an international non-governmental organisation, Global Rights, has also expressed concern about the siege on the plaza.

In a statement released on Friday, the Executive Director of the organisation, Abiodun Baiyewu, said the military action has turned a thriving commercial hub into a scene of military intimidation, with army trucks stationed outside the gate and officers preventing business owners and customers from accessing the premises.

This action violates the rights of many law-abiding Nigerians who rely solely on earnings from their businesses to make ends meet, Ms Baiyewu stated.

She highlighted Articles 6(1) and 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory, affirming that Nigerians have the right to work and earn an honest living.

The Nigerian Army should therefore not be an obstacle to people enjoying this right, she stated.

She condemned the attack on two non-belligerent army personnel by a group of traders at Banex Plaza which prompted the siege, but described the armys response as an inordinate show of force and brutality.

Ms Baiyewu said that the army violated the fundamental human rights of one of the shop owners, Caleb Chidera, who was arrested and allegedly tortured by its personnel.

Also, she said another passer-by who was assaulted by soldiers has reportedly fallen into a coma.

Demands

Ms Baiyewu demanded the immediate withdrawal of military personnel and vehicles from the plaza to allow business to resume unhindered.

She called on the army leadership to immediately release those who were arrested or transfer them to police custody for interrogation and possible prosecution

She called on the army leadership to immediately release those who were arrested or transfer them to police custody for interrogation and possible prosecution.

The task of investigating is best left to the police force, which by law is entrusted with this task and the task of prosecuting the perpetrators, she said.

The executive director also urged the army to make a public apology to all whose rights have been unfairly and unlawfully infringed upon by its personnel and also cover the cost of treatment for the woman who was assaulted and fell into a coma.

We recognise the incredible sacrifices our men and women in uniform undertake in our collective defence, Ms Baiyewu noted, but the army must adhere to the rule of law. This tragic episode should not be compounded by punishing innocent Nigerians.

Government mum

Both the federal government and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have yet to speak on the closure of the popular market.

Background

About 15 persons were captured in a viral video beating up two soldiers in Abuja.

The video, seen on X indicates that the incident happened at the popular Banex Plaza in the Wuse 2 District of the federal capital.

It was gathered that the incident happened around 4 p.m., on Saturday.

The mob was seen in the video chasing and beating up the two soldiers even as they tried to fight back.

One of them is overpowered by the mob who hit him hard with objects. The other is also seen trying to escape but is pushed forward by his attackers who also hit him repeatedly.

As of the time the video went viral, it was not ascertained what offence the soldiers committed to warrant such assault.

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The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has said the interagency collaborations in investigation and prosecution have resulted in the conviction of 160 suspects for criminal offences, 87 convictions in terrorism cases, and three convictions for extreme terrorism cases.

Mr Fagbemi stated this on Friday in Abuja during a Ministerial Sectorial Review press conference held to mark President Bola Tinubus one year in office.

In conjunction with relevant security and law enforcement agencies, we have developed a framework for joint investigation and collaboration resulting in 160 convictions for criminal offences, 87 convictions in terrorism cases, and three extreme terrorism cases, he stated.

The minister added that this approach has facilitated interagency collaboration in prosecuting maritime cases and the collaboration of public and private sectors in cyber security protection and cybercrime prosecution.

He said the ministry has resumed terrorism trials in partnership with the Legal Aid Council, Human Rights Commission, and other stakeholders.

Mr Fagbemi stated that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has endorsed the National Anti-corruption Strategy, contributing to enhanced transparency and freedom of information.

Repatriation of looted funds

The minister expressed joy over the repatriation of looted funds from the Bailiwick of Jersey to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, amounting to two million British Pound (2,125,994), to be used for the construction of the Kano-Abuja Road project.

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Additionally, he disclosed that the federal government received $50 million United States from Glencore International AG as a penalty and compensation fee arising from proceeds of crime.

Mr Fagbemi outlined that the Federal Contracts Administration System (FCAS) vetted 485 contracts and public-private partnerships to eradicate corruption.

He explained that the National Policy on Arbitration has resolved economic disputes and promoted arbitration.

Judicial reforms

On judicial reforms, Mr Fagbemi highlighted President Bola Tinubus decision to increase the retirement age of judges from 65 to 70 years to leverage their accumulated experience.

He said that the president also ensured that the Supreme Court has 21 justices as enshrined in the Constitution.

Furthermore, he explained that the proposed increase in judges salaries is meant to enable them to focus on adjudicating cases filed before them.

The minister also praised the achievements of the parastatals under the ministry, which he said have won cases, initiated infrastructural development, and improved the justice system overall.

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The Emirate, which predates the Nigerian state, is not a product of statute and cannot therefore be disbanded by statute, as the Ganduje government did. The government can remove Emirs with just cause, as allowed by law, but cannot dissolve the Emirate and recreate new ones. The recognition of the Emirate remains a pivotal social contract of some sort by which the modern Nigerian state has recognised the continuing relevance of the traditional system of authority

Yesterday, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State announced the appointment of Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi II as the new Emir of Kano. He made the announcement after signing the new emirate council law at Government House. Former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje had dethroned Sanusi in 2020, following a personal rift. The State House of Assembly had, on the same day, passed a bill for the dissolution of the five emirates, created by the immediate past Ganduje administration, and the removal of all the five emirs. Governor Yusuf signed the law after proposition from the kingmakers of Kano Emirate. Warm congratulations to Muhammad Sanusi II, the 14th and 16th Emir of Kano. May God guide him and give him the wisdom to rule with fairness and justice.

The law, titled the Kano State Emirates Council (Amendment No.2) Law, 2024, scrapped the five emirates system and first-class emirs in Gaya, Rano, Karaye and Bichi, and reverted the State to its position as the only one with a single emirate council, apart from Sokoto, which has only the Sultan as the paramount ruler, who is superior to all the emirs in the caliphate. There is excitement and contentment in the state because since 2019, Kano has been destabilised, distressed and shocked, following the orchestrated plot implemented by the erstwhile administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje to destroy a millennium of rich Kano tradition, history and legacy. The plot was rolled out and implemented without recourse to the good people of the state.

It was done with no regard to extant laws, Kanos political heritage and unity and indeed the humanity of its people, who have a history and rich cultural heritage they are proud of and have the right and duty to preserve for generations yet unborn. The clear response of the people of Kano to the threat against the Emirate was the victory of the opposition in the 2019 election, which was stolen in broad daylight by the contrived inconclusive electoral outcome, and the subsequent use of thugs and violence to rig the supplementary election. The peace-loving people of Kano State waited patiently for the 2023 election to vote out, once again, the corrupt and anti-people government that Ganduje sought to impose. The new administration of Kano State, right from the beginning, expressed its determination to restore the states heritage, culture and unity, that had served the Kanawa so well for centuries, and which were needlessly rendered asunder by the said Ganduje administration.

Its important to understand the logic of the restoration. It would be recalled that on Monday 6th May 2019, one faceless individual, Ibrahim Salisu, had submitted a petition to the Kano State House of Assembly seeking the decentralisation of the Kano Emirate. The petitioner demanded the upgrade of the traditional rulers of Karaye, Bichi, Rano, and Gaya to the status of first-class emirs and the creation of additional emirates in Kano. The Assembly, which was in recess, was hurriedly reconvened by the Speaker. It set up a committee to look into the petition and come up with a report. The next day, Tuesday 7th May, the report was ready, as it simply copied and pasted the prayers of the petitioner in it. The draft Amendment Bill was presented and it received a swift passage at the Assembly, after the third reading and on the same day, the then Governor Ganduje signed the Bill into law. By the end of the week, new Emirs were appointed and issued letters and instruments of authority. This was the cavalier manner in which 1000 years of Kano history was thrown away by the Ganduje administration. Kano lost its status as one of only two states in Nigeria with one emirate or traditional council.

The law balkanised Kanos 44 local government, hitherto under the traditional authority of the Kano Emirate, to create the five new emirates  Rano, Gaya, Karaye, Bichi and Kano. These monumental actions were taken without any consultation with stakeholders and the public. The House did not organise any public hearing and even within the Assembly, there was virtually no discussion.

The law balkanised Kanos 44 local government, hitherto under the traditional authority of the Kano Emirate, to create the five new emirates  Rano, Gaya, Karaye, Bichi and Kano. These monumental actions were taken without any consultation with stakeholders and the public. The House did not organise any public hearing and even within the Assembly, there was virtually no discussion. This action was taken in bad faith and in clear abuse of due process.

Kano had existed as a Kingdom since c. 999 AD under a lineage of Hausa kings (Sarakuna). Following the Jihad of 1804 and the conquest of the Hausa rulers of Kano in 1807, it took its present form with an Emir and kingmakers representing the prominent Fulani clans that led the Jihad in Kano. Each of the clans maintained its seat in Kano City but had territorial control of various districts of the Emirate. Although colonial conquest subordinated the authority of Sarkin Kano and the emirate to the colonial state, the colonialists did not rework the territories, which have remained consolidated since the reign of Sarkin Kano Ibrahim Dabo (1819-1846). The Nigerian state also maintained the recognition of these territorial definition.

The Emirate, which predates the Nigerian state, is not a product of statute and cannot therefore be disbanded by statute, as the Ganduje government did. The government can remove Emirs with just cause, as allowed by law, but cannot dissolve the Emirate and recreate new ones. The recognition of the Emirate remains a pivotal social contract of some sort by which the modern Nigerian state has recognised the continuing relevance of the traditional system of authority, which has continued to serve as an enduring fulcrum of unity, identity and social cohesion, often mobilised not just for its pomp and pageantry but as a source of peace, order and stability.

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It is therefore clear that:

Gandujes actions were ill motivated and founded on gross abuse of power;

The said actions were destructive of the cultural, historical and political heritage of Kano;

The actions have seriously eroded the unity of Kano State, reduced the status and influence of traditional institutions, and removed the important voice of such authorities in defending the people. Since the 10th century, there has always been one Sarkin Kano as the leader of the people;

Kano State Government is experiencing its most indebted history because of the additional burden of costs resulting from the creation of the Emirates, and it has not been able to effectively deliver social services. The balkanisation of Kano was an unmitigated disaster.

The Ganduje law created divisions, acrimony and disharmony across the districts of the Emirate by removing ruling houses from their roots and subordinating them to lesser chiefs. The Emirate had inherited Sarauta titles, which are based on hierarchies established by precedence as approved by Sarkin Musulmi Muhammad Bello (1817-1837) which were upturned overnight.

The Government under Governor Ganduje promised, that, the new Emirates, would bring development to their domains, but it was the opposite that happened. Nigeria is a republic and not a monarchy and emirates are not structures of government. Kano State Government is experiencing its most indebted history because of the additional burden of costs resulting from the creation of the Emirates, and it has not been able to effectively deliver social services. The balkanisation of Kano was an unmitigated disaster.

The restoration was necessary because:

It would once again provide a sense of unity and common identity for the people of Kano, with purposeful leadership that extends to most Hausa people in Nigeria and beyond;

It is cost effective in this era of fiscal difficulties and abolishing the burden of five Emirates created by Kano State Government under Governor Ganduje will release resources for much needed social development;

It is necessary to restore the foundation of the social contract between the state and the people of Kano by respecting their revered system of traditional authority in the interest peace and stability.

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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With the governments drive towards attracting investments to the oil and gas sector, the NUPRC has been deploying best practices and technology to ensure strategic and responsible utilisation of the vast natural resources for the benefit of all Nigerians.

On 7 May, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), announced the commencement of the 2024 Licensing Round at the Offshore Technology Conference, which held in Houston, Texas, United States.

The commencement of the Licensing Round demonstrates Nigerias commitment to advancing its oil and gas sector and it is a reflection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubus leadership, aimed at attracting the attention and involvement of international investors.

Twelve new blocks, namely: PPL 300-CS; PPL 301-CS; PPL 3008; PPL 3009; PPL 2001; PPL 2002; PML 51; PPL 267; PPL 268; PPL 269; PPL 270; and PPL 271, including seven old blocks in the 2022 mini-bid, are on offer by the NUPRC.

The broad objectives of the 2024 Licensing Round are to grow the Nigeria oil and gas reserves, enhance Nigerian content development, attract foreign direct investment, contribute to a long-term global energy sufficiency, boost Nigerias oil and gas production, expand the opportunity for gas utilisation, generate job opportunities, and create value for the Nigerian government and investors.

The Licensing Round offers selected blocks spanning diverse geological formations with great potential for economic growth and energy security for shared prosperity. The regulatory framework, anchored by the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, is aimed at entrenching fairness and transparency, thereby fostering confidence among investors.

Since the commencement of the PIA in 2021, the NUPRC under the leadership of the Chief Executive, Engineer Gbenga Komolafe, has taken up the statutory responsibility of ensuring compliance with petroleum laws, regulations and guidelines in the upstream oil and gas sector.

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The new dynamics in the global energy arena necessitated that Nigeria, a country that has long depended on the explorations of oil and gas as the mainstay of its economy, re-examine its strategy to secure investments in the energy sector, while meeting the global climate goals.

As a country, Nigeria boasts of 36.966 billion barrels of oil, which ranks her second in Africa, eighth in OPEC and 11th in the World. Nigeria is also richly endowed with 208.83 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, with an upside potential estimated at 600 TCF.

Aside from the hydrocarbon potentials, Nigeria is blessed with potentials for green and blue hydrogen, solar, wind, biomass and other sources of renewable energy to leverage for the right mix in the energy transition regime, as well as critical minerals such as lithium, manganese, copper, graphite and nickel for development of clean energy technologies.

Indeed, Nigerias potentials are derived from its human, natural and material resources which must be mobilised to propel her on a path of economic growth and development and for her sustainable energy future.

Unfortunately, in the years preceding the enactment of the PIA (2021), investments in the Nigerian oil and gas industry declined mostly due to regulatory uncertainty, de-funding of fossil fuel development, occasioned by energy transition and the global call for decarbonisation.

However, the Commission, under the leadership of Komolafe, is charting a new course in the upstream petroleum sector through the 2024 Licensing Round. This Round is different due to the decision of the government to eliminate entry barriers. This is because under President Tinubu, who is the minister of Petroleum Resources, the government has become a lot more proactive and pragmatic in ensuring that entry does not constitute a barrier to investment in exploration blocks offered.

The Commissions Chief Executive, Engineer Gbenga Komolafe gave credence to this when he said that Nigerias approach aligns with global energy sustainability goals, as he emphasised environmental, social, and governance considerations.

As the government navigates through the complexities of the global energy transition, the future that the NUPRC foresees for the Nigerian petroleum industry is one that should promote the utilisation of the countrys hydrocarbon resources for shared prosperity, energy accessibility, affordability, sustainability, security, as well as energy independence and energy sovereignty.

This is why the NUPRC, under the leadership of Komolafe, has adopted a pragmatic approach, ensuring competitive entry fees and commercial viability for investment.

The Licensing Round is expected to be a huge success for Nigeria and it is a big step towards growing the nations oil and gas reserves through aggressive exploration and development efforts, boosting production, expanding opportunities for gas utilisation and end-to-end development across the value chain, strengthening energy security and economy, providing an occasion to gainfully engage the pool of competent companies in the oil and gas sector, with a multiplier effect in employment opportunities, enabling the transfer of technology, valorising petroleum assets in the Nigerian territory, and attracting investments.

The 2024 Licencing Round marks another significant milestone in the ongoing development of Nigerias upstream petroleum sector.

Aligned with the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 (PIA), this Licencing Round aims to foster further exploration and investment in the countrys promising petroleum basins. Managed by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), this round operates within the robust legal and regulatory frameworks set forth by the PIA, designed to attract new investors and propel the exploration phase in Nigerias petroleum landscape.

The 2024 Licencing Round represents an opportunity for both domestic and international stakeholders to engage in the exploration and development of Nigerias hydrocarbon resources. Under the stewardship of NUPRC, this Licencing Round promises transparency and competitiveness in the allocation of exploration blocks.

Central to the success of the 2024 Licencing Round is the availability of high-quality geological and geophysical data. The National Data Repository (NDR) of the NUPRC, in collaboration with multi-client partners, is committed to providing access to extensive seismic datasets. The Commission has assured that it would make available to prospective bidders access to the latest and most accurate information for informed decision-making.

In line with the objectives of the Licencing Round, a mix of deep offshore, shallow water and onshore blocks will be made available to interested investors. The offering comprises a diverse range of exploration prospects, catering to varying technical and operational preferences.

Emphasising a holistic approach to resource management, the 2024 Licencing Round prioritises environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations. Komolafe said the NUPRC is committed to ensuring that exploration activities are conducted in a manner that minimises carbon emissions and mitigates environmental impact.

By incorporating ESG criteria into the licensing process, he said stakeholders can contribute to sustainable development while harnessing the nations natural resources.

Komolafe observed that, The Licensing Rounds represent an opportunity to reinforce Nigerias commitment to openness and transparency in line with the principles of the Nigerian Extractive Transparency Initiative.

On the global scale, the Licensing Round will no doubt be beneficial to all stakeholders and will in the long run contribute to long-term global energy sufficiency. Interestingly, the Licensing Round process was formulated in cognisance of global energy sustainability goals.

The implementation process will, in addition to technical and commercial considerations, pay the requisite attention to strategies, processes and implementable plans consistent with net zero carbon emission targets, eliminating gas flares as well as overall environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations.

Broadly speaking, competitive entry fees that are responsive to prevailing realities will be adopted in the 2024 Block licensing rounds. Also, considerations for the commerciality of projects will be made on a case-by case basis for the determination of appropriate entry fees.

The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil) Heineken Lokpobiri, who spoke on the criteria and relevance of the Licensing Round, explained that the reason for lowering the signature bonus for new oil blocks is to allow investors to use the resources to fund their exploration.

He said the government would support the NUPRC to succeed in regulating the upstream oil and gas sector, as the success will determine what happens to the mid-stream and downstream sectors.

Lokpobiri said, Instead of asking you to pay a signature of $200 million, we are reducing it to the nearest minimum. So, we expect you to use your money to start exploration immediately.

And if you breach any of the conditions, we will act. We want to give this thing (blocks) to the men with the big pockets that can provide the funding.

As government, we are here to support the most strategic agency in the oil and gas industry. If the upstream doesnt succeed, mid-stream and downstream will be a failure.

According to the petroleum minister, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government is willing to provide a safe environment for companies willing to invest in the country.

He said, We are not playing politics. We are giving the blocks to people who have the wherewithal to undertake the project.

This is my first bidding round as minister, and I hope there will be more bid rounds on those blocks that are lying fallow.

With the governments drive towards attracting investments to the oil and gas sector, the NUPRC has been deploying best practices and technology to ensure strategic and responsible utilisation of the vast natural resources for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Ifeanyi Onuba, a chartered accountant, writes from Abuja.

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The city of Auburn sought and has received a state pro-housing designation that will allow it to access $650 million in funding.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that 61 municipalities in New York have been certified as pro-housing communities. Auburn is one of three in central New York  the villages of Cazenovia (Madison County) and Pulaski (Oswego County) are the others  to receive the designation.

Auburn Mayor Jimmy Giannettino sent a letter of intent in February  the first step in the process of becoming a pro-housing community. The Auburn City Council adopted a housing pledge, another requirement to join the program, in March.

The pledge includes a commitment to streamline housing permits, support fair housing, address regional housing needs and adopt policies that encourage a variety of housing development projects.

Hochul created the pro-housing community initiative by executive order in 2023. The purpose of the program is to encourage municipalities to address the housing crisis in New York.

In Auburn, the city's leadership has said there is a low homeownership rate (46%) compared to the statewide average (54%). Low vacancy rates and high rents are also challenges.

The lack of affordable housing in Auburn and Cayuga County is driving homelessness, officials say.

"Receiving our pro-housing designation from the state of New York is an important step forward in our efforts to address our current housing stock and as we plan for future growth," Giannettino told The Citizen. He credited Jennifer Haines, the city's director of planning and economic development, for her work in securing the certification.

Haines, who addressed the Auburn City Council at its meeting Thursday, said the city is in a great position to receive funding now that it has received the designation.

"We are working very hard to try and look at every resource we can to build all sorts of housing here," Haines said, adding that the city will collaborate with Cayuga County to conduct a housing market study.

Now that Auburn is a pro-housing community, it will be able to access funding through several state programs, including Market New York and the Regional Council Capital Fund.

The 2024-25 state budget includes a requirement that municipalities must have a pro-housing community certification to seek funding from these programs.

"Across our state, local leaders are joining our pro-housing communities program to take a stand against New York's housing crisis and commit to building the homes New Yorkers deserve," Hochul said in a statement.
In a move to revolutionise the deodorant market in Nigeria, global leader Rexona proudly announced the new Rexona, which boasts superior 72-hour non-stop protection from sweat and odour throughout the day, regardless of lifestyle and its campaign Stay Dry and Fresh for Longer with a motion party-themed event held on Friday, 17 May, 2024.

The product leverages cutting-edge motion sense technology with an intelligent formula that adapts to movements, releasing additional bursts of protection as motion increases.

At Unilever, we are constantly striving to develop products that meet the evolving needs of our consumers, and the new Rexona 72 hours deodorant, is a significant leap forward in deodorant technology, offering Nigerians unparalleled protection from sweat and odour,said AkintayoAkinseloyin, Beauty, Wellbeing and Personal care Marketing Lead, UnileverPlc.

The launch of Rexona 72 hours deodorant also commences Rexonas wider Stay Fresh and Dry for Longer campaign. This comprehensive initiative aims to educate Nigerians about the science behind sweat and odour production and debunk the common misconception that showering alone is enough for complete protection. Through the campaign, Rexona seeks to empower Nigerians to take control of their sweat and odour concerns and experience the confidence that comes with staying fresh all day.

The Stay Dry and Fresh for Longer campaign will include engaging touchpoints, interactive in-store demonstrations, and powerful social media initiatives. These activities will provide Nigerians with valuable information about the benefits of daily deodorant use and showcase how Rexonas Motionsense Technology sets a new standard in sweat and odour protection.

With the launch of the new Rexona 72hr deodorant and the Stay Dry and Fresh for Longer campaign, Rexona is poised to transform how Nigerians approach personal hygiene, empowering Nigerians to move confidently and embrace a life free from sweat and odour concerns.

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A man, Onyebuchi Anene, has died after a member of the Abuja Special Intervention Squad (SIS) of the Nigeria Police spayed teargas on him.

Mr Anene, who lived in Haj Estate with his wife and three children on Arab Road, Kubwa, a satellite town in the federal capital, was returning home from work at about 9 p.m. on Wednesday when his car collided with a motorcycle rider leading to an altercation between both men.

His wife, Ogochukwu Anene, told PREMIUM TIMES on Thursday that eyewitnesses recounted to her the events leading to her husbands death.

She narrated that during the altercation between her husband and the motorcycle rider, police officers on patrol arrived at the scene and directed both men to follow them to the Byazhin Police Station.

However, both men refused, stating they had already settled the matter and saw no need to go to the station.

The police insisted, but Mr Anene and the motorcycle rider stood their ground. It was at this point that one of the police officers, the driver of the van, shot a canister at close range, which penetrated Mr Anenes forehead.

The incident happened on Arab Road, just very close to our house. He was coming back from work around 9 p.m. At the junction, he had an altercation with a motorcyclist who scratched his car.

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As they were arguing, policemen on patrol came and insisted they should go to the police station in Byazhin. He and the motorcyclist said they had settled the matter and didnt need to go to the station.

The police insisted and tried to drag him, but he refused because he was close to the estate. He said he had forgiven the motorcyclist. But the driver of the police van, sprayed teargas on him before he shot another teargas on his foreheadwhat you saw stuck on his face was a teargas canister. That wound is very deep. Blood was gushing out as he called for help.

They went to Kubwa General Hospital, but they were referred to the National Hospital. At the National Hospital, they said they needed to stabilise him before removing it. He died this morning (Thursday).

I arrived at the National Hospital around 11 p.m. on Wednesday where I met some police officers delegated by the Byazhin Divisional Police Officer (DPO) to take care of him, Mrs Anene said.

Police speak

When contacted, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident and said the officer who sprayed the teargas has been arrested.

She said the FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, to commence an immediate and discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr Anenes death.

While the police officer responsible for the accidental discharge is in custody, the commissioner of police expresses profound and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the public at large.

He unequivocally condemns the unprofessional and disheartening conduct of the police officer and assures the family and the public of swift justice, she said.

Special Intervention Squad

PREMIUM TIMES had reported that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, inaugurated a Special Intervention Squad (SIS) in the FCT to address the rising crime rate in the area.

Mr Egbetokun stated that the squad comprises trained, well-equipped, and highly mobile police officers. He also said the squad is capable of rapid intervention and effective containment of significant security breaches, particularly in the suburbs of the FCT.

The alarming rise in criminal activities demands immediate and resolute action from all, Mr Egbetokun emphasised.

He explained that the squad would also engage in community-oriented policing, reflecting the Nigeria polices philosophy that public safety is a collaborative effort.

The IGP said by working hand-in-hand with community leaders, residents, and other stakeholders, the squad aims to strengthen the existing bonds between the Police Force and the communities.

Our goal is to ensure that every corner of the FCT remains a haven for its inhabitants, Mr Egbetokun said.

The SIS is part of a broader strategy to enhance security and build trust within the community, demonstrating the Nigeria Police Forces commitment to proactive and inclusive policing.

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The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has defied an order of the Federal High Court and reinstated Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano.

Speaking at the ceremony at Government House in Kano on Friday, Mr Yusuf said the returning emir was victimised by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, which led to his dethronement in March 2020.

Before Fridays event, Mr Yusuf and members of the State House of Assembly, controlled by the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP), on Thursday, repealed the Kano State Emirate Council Law 2019 that gave the state five emirates and first class emirs.

Mr Yusuf said Mr Lamidos dethronement in 2020 after six years in office was not the wish of his subjects.

Our respected father, the Emir of the people, Your Highness, I am highly delighted and feel happy to see the history of this event. Today, I am going to proceed with the letter of reinstatement to the Emir of Kano.

We had a series of meetings with the kingmakers yesterday, extensive discussions with the Speaker, and we also sat with all the heads of security. At the end of the day, we all gathered in the chamber where I received the bill that repealed the former law, and we signed the new law repealing all the appointments.

We did that out of our convictions and belief that this gentleman was victimised in 2019. We all feel that we must restore what is due to the good people of the state.

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

Let me use this opportunity to humbly thank the Speaker and all members of the House for your determination and respect for the rule of law. It shows your interest in the welfare of the people of the state.

By the powers conferred on me by the Kano Emirate Council law of 1984 and 2024, and supported by the recommendation of the kingmakers, I have the singular pleasure to confirm the reappointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and the head of the Kano Emirate Council.

As the Emir is being appointed for the second time, it is based on his competence, credibility, and popularity. I urge him to be guided by the principles of Islamic teachings and to use his position to unite the emirate, fostering harmony among the Islamic sects in the state, Mr Yusuf said at the reinstatement event.

Mr Sanusi was initially installed as the Emir of Kano in 2014 by then-Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who is now the leader of Governor Yusufs New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

His installation followed the death, after a lengthy reign, of Ado Bayero.

In 2020, Mr Sanusi was removed for alleged insubordination to the government of then-Governor Ganduje. The son of Mr Sanusis predecessor, Aminu Ado Bayero, was installed as the 15th emir of Kano, after four emirates were carved out of it to end its status as the sole emirate of the state.

With the official reinstatement letter presented by the governor, Mr Sanusi is now officially the 14th and 16th Emir of Kano, having served in two different political dispensations.

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The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, on Friday, said he reinstated Lamido Sanusi as Emir of Kano despite being restrained by a court because the judge who issued the order was not physically present in Nigeria to issue it.

The governor said he would report the judge to the Nigeria Governors Forum for alleged abuse of court orders. He spoke while presenting a reinstatement letter to Mr Sanusi.

Before the presentation of the reinstatement letter to Mr Sanusi on Friday, a judge of the Federal High Court in Kano, on Thursday, restrained the governor and the state government from implementing the new emirate law under which Mr Sanusi was reinstated.

The law, passed on Thursday by the state House of Assembly and assented to immediately by Governor Yusuf, dissolved the four emirates carved out of the Kano emirate in 2019 and removed the emirs.

But in a Thursday ruling, Justice AM Liman, in suit number FHC/KN/CS/182/2024, ordered the state government and the other parties involved to stop the implementation of the law, pending the hearing of the substantive case.

A title holder in Kano emirate, Aminu Danagundi, filed the suit to challenge the governments decision.

But the governor in the Hausa version of his speech while presenting the letter of reappointment to Mr Sanusi, said that the judge, Mr Liman, was not physically present in court to stop the reinstatement.

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

The person (Mr Liman) that issued the court order was in America but he is ordering us to stop what we are doing. This issue of abuse I must present before the Governors Forum so that we can tackle it accordingly.

We are agents of following due process, thats why we did what we did openly before everybody. Those that are meant to maintain that rule of law must follow that also, the furious governor said.

Now that he has received his letter of reappointment, Mr Sanusi is expected to resume work at the emirs palace after the Jummat prayer.

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The remains of Sylvanus Ukpong, an Akwa Ibom entrepreneur who was shot dead by suspected kidnappers, will be laid to rest on Friday, 24 May.

Sylvanus elder brother, Patrick Ukpong, who disclosed this to PREMIUM TIMES on Thursday night, said the funeral ceremony will take place at Qua Iboe Church Primary School, Ikot Eko Ibon, Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, by 10 a.m.

The funeral will be conducted by the Insight Bible Church, according to Patrick.

Until his death, Sylvanus was the CEO of Emem & Sons Ltd, a construction company, and Emem Farm Ltd in Akwa Ibom.

He was the elder brother of Cletus Ukpong, the PREMIUM TIMES editor for the South-south/South-east region.

The slain entrepreneur left behind a wife, Blessing, and a 14-year-old daughter, Emem, who is in Senior Secondary 1.

How he was killed

Sylvanus was shot dead on 6 April around 7 p.m. at Ifa Atai, along Oron Road, Uyo, by gunmen who attempted to abduct him while he was heading to his poultry farm along airport road.

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

According to family members and residents of the area where the incident happened, the victim had resisted the kidnappers, fought back and disarmed one of them before he was overpowered with a shot in the leg and then another shot in the head. He died on the spot.

The manager of Emem Farm, a woman, was abducted during the incident. She was later released after spending days in captivity.

The police said they are investigating the killing.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, during a condolence visit to the Sylvanus family shortly after the killing, vowed to track the killers and bring them to justice.

Those who did this (killing) have inflicted an immeasurable pain on our family, they have taken a life so precious. The pain is too much. It is too much for us to bear, Sylvanus elder brother, Patrick, told PREMIUM TIMES.

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In its first year of service, Air Premia's Incheon-New York route has quickly established itself as a preferred choice for travelers. To celebrate this milestone, Air Premia is offering a limited time special fares and additional flights.

NEW YORK, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hybrid airline Air Premia is celebrating its first year of launching the Incheon-New York route. Making it first flight on May 22 last year, the route has successfully operated 393 flights, transported 108,717 passengers with an impressive average occupancy rate of 90%.

On the afternoon of May 22nd local time in New York - Marking its first anniversary of the Incheon-New York route, Air Premia held a celebration event held at the New York Country Club. The event was attended by Air Premia New York Branch Manager Choi Hyun-chul and prominent guests.

Under the leadership of CEO Yoo Myung-sub and COO Moon Bo-kook, Air Premia has capitalized on its strategic use of Newark Liberty International Airport, offering more convenient access to Manhattan compared to the John F. Kennedy International Airport, which is believed to have influenced the airlines' popularity. Moreover, Air Premia is the only national airline that operates the Incheon-New York route four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) at Newark Liberty International Airport.

Demographic insight revealed that 57% of passengers were female and 43% were male. The route appeals most strongly to younger travelers, with 22.6 in their 20s, followed by 19.3% in their 60s and above, and 19% in their 30s. Additionally, 15% were in their 50s, 12.7% in their 40s, and 11.4% were under 19 years old. In line with the characteristics of the route, where many family members and acquaintances visit, it was found that New Yorkers also used Air Premia often. Round-trip passengers departing from New York accounted for nearly half (49.1%), while those departing from Korea accounted for 50.9%.

To commemorate this achievement, Air Premia hosted a special event at the New York Country Club on May 22. The event was attended by around 80 people, including local political and business leaders, media and travel agents. Expressing his confidence in Air Premia's promising future, Branch Manager Choi Hyeon-chul said, "The first anniversary of the New York route is a growth engine for the company and the creation of new value for customers and the market. We are deeply grateful to our customers and the local community for their support and trust in Air Premia. In return, we are committed to delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction and continued innovation in value creation."

As part of the celebration, Air Premia is selling special airline tickets for this route until May 29th. The tickets are available from 1,143,900 won for a round-trip and the boarding period is until the end of February next year. Furthermore, during the peak summer season from July 11 to August 15, the airline will increase its service to include an extra flight on Thursday and operated 5 days a week. Tickets for these additional flights are available on Air Premia website.

To book your flight or discover more about Air Premia, please visit https://www.airpremia.com/kr/en.

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact Seungshin Park, Leader of PR Team, Air Premia, [email protected].

SOURCE Air Premia
Beijing (Gasgoo)- Dongfeng Motor's high-end new energy vehicle brand, VOYAH, officially announced its first new model of the year, the VOYAH FREE 318, will begin presale on May 30.

Photo credit: VOYAH

The VOYAH FREE 318 is an upgraded version of the existing VOYAH FREE SUV, featuring enhancements in exterior design, range, performance, intelligence, and safety.

The vehicle is equipped with the Amber battery system, boasting a capacity of 43kWh, a 10% increase over the current model. With VOYAH's self-developed high-efficiency electric drive system, the 8-layer Hair-Pin motor achieves a slot full rate of up to 70%. Utilizing ultra-thin silicon steel sheets and low vortex loss technology, the motor maintains an efficiency zone exceeding 90%, resulting in superior energy performance. The VOYAH FREE 318 offers a combined range of 1,458km and a fuel consumption of just 6.19L/100km.

Photo credit: VOYAH

The exterior design adopts the blade armor concept, with a powerful front fascia and a distinctive family-style wing-spanning light strip. The side profile features sharp lines that create an impressive light and shadow effect, enhancing its dynamic stance. The rear anti-gravity spoiler adds to the vehicles sporty aesthetics and improves overall dynamic stability.

The interior sees a fresh update with a new black and green color scheme, combining a sophisticated black with green stitching and carbon fiber trim, providing a youthful and trendy feel.

The VOYAH FREE 318 comes with an upgraded intelligent driving assistance system from Baidu Apollo, enhancing highway navigation with traffic cone recognition for better risk avoidance during roadworks. In urban environments, it features improved traffic light recognition and car follow capabilities, allowing for seamless and safe intersection navigation. The smart parking system now supports parking in low-light conditions, ensuring efficient and accurate parking even in dark spaces.
Customers will have access to extensive flight connectivity with over 150 destinations and can choose in which program to accumulate points from codeshare flights

SAO PAULO, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Azul and GOL airlines announce today a commercial cooperation agreement that will connect their flight networks in Brazil through a codeshare agreement. This partnership covers all domestic routes operated exclusively, meaning routes operated by one of the two companies but not the other.

The agreement also encompasses frequent flyer programs, allowing Azul Fidelidade and Smiles members to earn points in their preferred program when purchasing segments included in the codeshare agreement.

This agreement will bring enormous benefits to our customers. Both companies have a history of aviation development in Brazil, focused on customer service excellence. "With Azul's highly connected network serving most cities in Brazil and GOL's strong presence in the main Brazilian markets, our complementary offerings will provide customers with the widest range of travel options," said Abhi Shah, President of Azul.

Consumers will benefit from this commercial partnership starting at the end of June, when the offer will become available through both companies' sales channels.

Customers will gain access to hundreds of new domestic routes, along with more convenient connection opportunities. For example, one could travel from Brasilia to Tabatinga with a brief layover in Manaus, or from Rio de Janeiro to Maraba with a stop in Belem.

"GOL and Azul have always been dedicated to expanding the Brazilian aviation market. This codeshare agreement will provide customers with even more travel options across our country. GOL already has over 60 commercial agreements with various global airline partners, and we are eager to extend these benefits within Brazil," said Celso Ferrer, CEO of GOL.

Azul and GOL operate approximately 1,500 daily departures. This agreement will create over 2,700 travel opportunities with just one connection.

Benefits for Azul and GOL Customers:

Customers can search for domestic segments exclusive to one airline and purchase through Azul's and GOL's sales channels. Routes operated by both GOL and Azul are not included in the codeshare.

Points and miles from codeshare or non-overlapping segments purchased through the other airline's digital channels, such as a GOL flight bought on Azul's website, can be accumulated in either the Azul Fidelidade and Smiles programs, at the customer's discretion. This applies to both connecting flights and individual segments.

Check-in must always be completed through the digital channels or airport counters of the airline operating the flight, or in the case of connecting flights, the first segment, regardless of which company sold the ticket. For connecting flights, customers will receive all boarding passes at check-in.

Baggage check-in follows the same rule as passenger check-in. It must be done with the airline operating the flight or the first segment, and the luggage will be delivered to the final destination regardless of any connections with the other airline.

Rescheduling and cancellations of bookings should be handled by the company that sold the ticket.

Additional services and optional items, such as special seats or checked baggage, as well as loyalty program benefits and cargo transport, remain subject to the rules set by each company and must be observed by customers.

About Azul

Azul S.A. (B3: AZUL4, NYSE: AZUL), the largest airline in Brazil by number of departures and cities served, offers 1,000 daily flights to more than 160 destinations. With an operational fleet of over 180 aircraft and more than 16,000 crew members, the company has a network of 300 direct routes. In 2023, Azul was named the world's second most punctual airline by Cirium, a leading aviation data analysis company. In 2020, Azul was awarded the title of the world's best airline by TripAdvisor, marking the first time a Brazilian airline has achieved first place in the Traveller's Choice Awards. For more information, visit www.voeazul.com.br/imprensa.

Press Relations

Azul Brazilian Airlines

(11) 98196-1035

[email protected]

*Follow us on Instagram: @imprensaazul

GOL LINHAS AEREAS

GOL is Brazil's leading airline and part of the Abra Group. Since its inception in 2001, it has been the lowest-cost airline in Latin America, enabling the democratization of air travel. The company maintains alliances with American Airlines and Air France-KLM and offers customers a variety of codeshare and interline agreements, enhancing convenience and ease of connections to any destination served by these partnerships. Committed to "Being First for Everyone," GOL provides the best travel experience for its passengers, including the most seats and legroom, a comprehensive platform with internet, movies, and live TV, and the premier loyalty program, Smiles. GOLLOG, the cargo transport division, facilitates parcel delivery across Brazil and internationally. The company employs a team of 13.7 thousand people.

GOL Linhas Aereas

InPress Porter Novelli

[email protected]

+55 (11) 3323-1570 / 3323-1586

SOURCE GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A.
First Commitments Spur Near-Term Projects to Improve Bus, Light Rail Service

SAN FRANCISCO, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) this week approved an $18.3 million allocation to fund eight near-term transit priority projects in San Jose, San Francisco, Redwood City and the East Bay. These investments are the first to be made through the $30 million Bus Accelerated Infrastructure Delivery (BusAID) program established as part of the Bay Area Transit Transformation Action Plan to implement quick-build solutions designed to improve service at problem 'hotspot' locations identified by transit agencies throughout the region. Each of the eight approved projects is slated for completion in the next one to three years:

Park Street Transit Signal Priority and Signal Optimization ( Alameda ): this project will install transit signal priority and optimize signal timing at four intersections along Park Street from Alameda Avenue to Otis Drive, reducing delays for AC Transit routes 20, 21, OX and 663.

( ): this project will install transit signal priority and optimize signal timing at four intersections along Park Street from Alameda Avenue to Otis Drive, reducing delays for AC Transit routes 20, 21, OX and 663. Monument Corridor Transit Speed Improvements ( Concord ): This project will transit priority signals along Monument Boulevard between Detroit Avenue and Mohr Lane, and will relocate and reconfigure bus stops to improve efficiency and accessibility. County Connection routes 11, 14, 16, 311, 314, 611, 613, 616 and 619 will benefit from more reliable service and reduced travel times.

( ): This project will transit priority signals along Monument Boulevard between Detroit Avenue and Mohr Lane, and will relocate and reconfigure bus stops to improve efficiency and accessibility. County Connection routes 11, 14, 16, 311, 314, 611, 613, 616 and 619 will benefit from more reliable service and reduced travel times. International Boulevard Transit Lane Delineation ( Oakland ): this project will reduce delays for AC Transit's Tempo (1T) line, reduce speeding by drivers on non-transit vehicles and improve corridor safety between 14 th Avenue and 42 nd Avenue through the installation of vertical treatments to separate the existing bus lanes from general purpose lanes, and by painting the bus lanes red to deter non-transit vehicles from using the bus lanes.

( ): this project will reduce delays for AC Transit's Tempo (1T) line, reduce speeding by drivers on non-transit vehicles and improve corridor safety between 14 Avenue and 42 Avenue through the installation of vertical treatments to separate the existing bus lanes from general purpose lanes, and by painting the bus lanes red to deter non-transit vehicles from using the bus lanes. El Camino Real Bus Boarding Islands & Bus Stop Balancing ( Redwood City ): To reduce delay for SamTrans routes ECR, 79, 270, 278, 295, 296, 2960 and 397, this project will fund the planning and design of bus boarding islands at stops along El Camino Real between Whipple Avenue and Dumbarton Avenue in Redwood City and unincorporated North Fair Oaks .

( ): To reduce delay for SamTrans routes ECR, 79, 270, 278, 295, 296, 2960 and 397, this project will fund the planning and design of bus boarding islands at stops along El Camino Real between Whipple Avenue and Dumbarton Avenue in and unincorporated . K-Ingleside Rapid Project Ocean Avenue Quick Build ( San Francisco ): Spanning Ocean Avenue from Junipero Serra Blvd. to Geneva Avenue, this project will increase service reliability and reduce travel times for Muni's K-Ingleside light rail line by installing longer and wider boarding islands, adding red transit lanes, and implementing signal timing refinements and turn restrictions.

( ): Spanning Ocean Avenue from Junipero Serra Blvd. to Geneva Avenue, this project will increase service reliability and reduce travel times for Muni's K-Ingleside light rail line by installing longer and wider boarding islands, adding red transit lanes, and implementing signal timing refinements and turn restrictions. VTA Frequent Network Cloud-Based Transit Signal Priority ( San Jose ): This project will install next-generation transit signal priority at 174 intersections along VTA's Frequent Network in San Jose , reducing delays for numerous bus routes, including 25, 26, 61, 64A, 64B , 70, 71, 72, 73, 77 and 500.

( ): This project will install next-generation transit signal priority at 174 intersections along VTA's Frequent Network in , reducing delays for numerous bus routes, including 25, 26, 61, 64A, , 70, 71, 72, 73, 77 and 500. Vision Zero Senter Road East San Jose Safety Corridor Project ( San Jose ): This project will reduce delays for VTA routes 70, 72 and 73 by installing bus boarding islands along Senter Road between Story Road and Monterey Road.

( ): This project will reduce delays for VTA routes 70, 72 and 73 by installing bus boarding islands along Senter Road between Story Road and Monterey Road. Alvarado-Niles Road Part-Time Transit Lane Pilot ( Union City ): To reduce congestion-related delays for AC Transit route 97 and Union City Transit routes 1, 3 and 5, this project will install for a two-year pilot period a part-time transit lane along Alvarado-Niles Road from Decoto Road to Almaden Boulevard, providing buses with a dedicated lane during hours with peak traffic congestion.

MTC approved funding for these projects at its regularly scheduled May meeting, after each had been endorsed last month by the multi-agency Regional Network Management Council. Project recommendations were developed based on a two-stage screening process that evaluated potential rider benefits (time savings), equity considerations, and feasibility and readiness. Each project will include pre- and post-implementation evaluation to quantify project benefits. The remaining balance of $12 million in BusAID funding will be used for future funding rounds, when additional projects are identified and ready for implementation.

MTC is the transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. Caltrans owns and operates the state highway system.

SOURCE Metropolitan Transportation Commission
Expects to Emerge from Court-Supervised Process in the Coming Days with Enhanced Financial Flexibility to Invest in Transformation and Growth of the Business

BLOOMINGTON, Minn., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- C1, an advanced technology and solutions company, today announced that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas has confirmed the Company's Financial Restructuring Plan. C1 expects to successfully complete its financial restructuring and emerge from the court-supervised process in the coming weeks.

Jeffrey S. Russell, Chief Executive Officer of C1, said, "We are pleased to have reached this critical milestone, bringing us one step closer to completing this process and moving forward focused as ever on delivering continued excellence for customers and partners. We are deeply grateful for the strong support from our financial stakeholders, which has enabled us to achieve this outcome on an expedited basis."

Russell continued, "I also want to express my sincere appreciation to our team members for their tireless hard work and dedication to serving our customers, allowing us to continue operating smoothly during this process. We look forward to emerging as an even stronger company with significantly reduced debt levels and a robust liquidity profile, well-positioned to invest in C1's growth and transformation."

Additional information is available at C1neXt.com. Court filings and information regarding the claims process are available at https://dm.epiq11.com/c1, by calling the Company's claims and noticing agent, Epiq, at 877-295-6914 (toll-free in the U.S.) or +1-971-290-2761 (for international calls), or by sending an email to [email protected].

Advisors

White & Case LLP is serving as legal advisor, Evercore Group, L.L.C. is serving as investment banker, and AlixPartners LLP is serving as financial advisor to C1.

About C1



C1, the global technology solution provider elevating connected human experiences, is transforming the industry by creating connected experiences that make a lasting impact on customers, our teams, and our communities. More than 6,000 customers use C1 every day to help them build meaningful connections through innovative and secure experiences. C1 collaborates with many of the Fortune 1000 companies and public sector organizations along with other key global industry partners to deliver solutions with a total lifecycle approach. C1 employs more than 1,000 engineers who collectively hold thousands of industry certifications throughout North America and India, including three Customer Success Centers. Learn more at onec1.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this filing that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes, targets or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words "may," "could," "would," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "estimate," "target," "project," "intend," "forecast," "foresee," "likely," "probably," "possibly" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or other comparable terminology. Examples of such forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company's financial results, expected motions to be filed in the Chapter 11 proceeding and the dispositions of such motions, continued operations and customer and supplier programs while in a Chapter 11 proceeding, cash needed to support our operations while in a Chapter 11 proceeding, ability to lower debt and interest payments, ability to operate while in a Chapter 11 proceeding, ability to pay our creditors, credit rating, among others. While we believe these expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, including, but not limited to: the actions and decisions of our creditors and other third parties with interests in the Chapter 11 cases; our ability to maintain liquidity to fund our operations during the Chapter 11 cases; our ability to obtain Bankruptcy Court approvals in connection with the Chapter 11 cases; our ability to consummate any transactions once approved by the Bankruptcy Court and the time to consummation of such transactions; adjustments in the calculation of financial results for the quarter or year end, or the application of accounting principles; discovery of new information that alters expectations about financial results or impacts valuation methodologies underlying financial results; and other factors affecting the Company detailed from time to time. These and other important factors may cause our actual results or developments to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Readers of this press release are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, including C1's forecasts, and no assurance can be given that any of such statements will prove to be correct.

Contacts

C1

Kim Espinosa

Media Relations Manager

[email protected]

Joele Frank

Michael Freitag / Viveca Tress / Carleigh Roesler

212-355-4449

SOURCE C1
HONG KONG, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CNOOC Limited (the "Company", SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) announces its wholly owned subsidiaries have entered into petroleum exploration and production concession contracts (EPCCs) with the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy of Mozambique (MIREME) and Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos (ENH) for 5 offshore blocks in Mozambique.

The contracts were signed for a total of 5 blocks, S6-A, S6-B, A6-D, A6-E and A6-G, all located offshore Mozambique. The total area is approximately 29,000 square kilometers, with water depths from 500 to 2,500 meters.

According to the terms of the contracts, the first stage of the exploration period of the blocks shall be 4 years. The 5 wholly owned subsidiaries of CNOOC Limited shall act as the operators in the exploration and development phases and independently owns the operating interests in the 5 blocks (S6-A 70%, S6-B 77.5%, A6-D 77.5%, A6-E 80%, A6-G 79.5%). ENH owns the remaining non-operating interests (S6-A 30%, S6-B 22.5%, A6-D 22.5%, A6-E 20%, A6-G 20.5%).

 End 

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com .

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company's expectations, including but not limited to those associated with macro-political and economic factors, fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, climate change and environmental policies, the Company's price forecast, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws and regulations.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu

Media & Public Relations

CNOOC Limited

Tel: +86-10-8452-6641

Fax: +86-10-8452-1441

E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Bunny Lee

Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group

Tel: +852 3150 6707

Fax: +852 3150 6728

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE CNOOC Limited
A few days ago, The Country of Beauty excelled in the world's most important birding event, recording over 1,550 species, and showcasing its unparalleled biodiversity on the global stage.

MIAMI, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Colombia is the leading destination for birdwatching in the world. That's a fact. With a total of 1,558 species recorded and 12,007 checklists submitted during the Global Big Day, the Country of Beauty outperformed countries such as Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and India, positioning itself at the top of the global count.

Flame-faced Tanager and Glistening Green Tanager, Photo courtesy of Manakin Nature Tours.

Since the inception of Global Big Day in 2015, Colombia has ranked first in the standings since 2017, except for the year 2021. This event is organized by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which invites people from around the world to observe and record birds for a day. Its goal is to gather important data on the distribution and abundance of birds on its eBird platform, which is crucial for conservation and scientific research.

"The outstanding performance of Colombia reflects our commitment to preserve natural wealth and consolidates our position as a world leader in birdwatching. We invite nature lovers to discover the magic of our landscapes and the extraordinary biodiversity of Colombia, The Country of Beauty," said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country.

The Colombian departments that stood out in the count were Antioquia, Meta, Valle del Cauca, Putumayo, and Cundinamarca, demonstrating the importance of biological diversity and conservation across the country's six tourist regions.

For this years' event, ProColombia joined the USAID Destination Nature program to boost the bird count under the slogan "Gossip flies because birds have much to tell us", a strategy that encouraged participation from both experts and enthusiasts during the event.

"It is excellent news to have once again ranked first in the number of bird species spotted during Global Big Day. This not only shows that more people are joining these citizen science days supported by the Program but also shows that Colombians are becoming aware of the importance of conserving our biodiversity and natural environments," said Julian Guerrero, Director of the USAID Destination Nature Program.

For more information about Colombia, please visit Colombia.travel/en

SOURCE ProColombia
LAFAYETTE, Colo., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Colorado Biolabs, Inc. (CBL) and Overseas Healthcare Ltd (Overseas) are pleased to officially announce the launch of Fe Daily for residents of Africa. The product contains CBL's Proferrin brand Heme iron polypeptide and will be available for purchase in 2024.

"Anemia rates in Africa are staggering. Both companies have had the goal of helping residents of Africa for a while now, and we're thrilled to start helping those who need Proferrin and Fe Daily this year," says Colorado Biolabs CEO Adam Kashenberg.

Overseas Healthcare, a leading Indian Pharma Company, endeavors to make Proferrin available across the African continent by the end of 2025 under their brand name Fe Daily. "We at Overseas want to extend the great benefits of our product Fe Daily to all those who suffer from Anemia in Asia and Africa," says Mr. D.P. Soni, MD, Overseas Healthcare.

CBL's Proferrin brand HIP has demonstrated the ability to increase serum iron up to 23x greater than does a traditional iron salt on a milligram per milligram basis.[1] This allows for excellent iron supplementation using far less iron, leading to a stellar GI side effect profile. Additionally, HIP absorption does not require acidification via addition of Vitamin C. This fact is important because co-administration of Iron and Vitamin C have been associated with oxidative stress in the gastric mucosa, which can lead to ulceration.[2]

Proferrin brand HIP is manufactured in the United States by Colorado Biolabs, Inc. and Proferrin iron supplements were introduced into the U.S. market in 2001. Proferrin is also available in the US, Canada, UAE, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.

For more information about Proferrin and Colorado Biolabs, Inc., visit http://www.proferrin.com. To learn more about Overseas Healthcare, please visit https://www.overseashealthcare.co.in.

1  Seligman, P.A., et al, Nutrition Research, 2000. 20(9):1279-86.

2  Fisher, A. EO and Naughton, D.P., Nutrition Journal 2004, 3:2

SOURCE Colorado Biolabs
Antitumor efficacy of sunvozertinib was observed in patients regardless of baseline EGFR exon20ins status in plasma ctDNA.

Sunvozertinib could effectively clear EGFR exon20ins in plasma ctDNA, confirming its direct effect on EGFR pathway.

The resistance to sunvozertinib could be through EGFR-dependent and EGFR-independent mechanisms and combination of golidocitinib, a JAK1 inhibitor, with chemotherapy could be a potential approach to overcome sunvozertinib resistance.

SHANGHAI, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dizal (SSE:688192), a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing groundbreaking new medicines for the treatment of cancer and immunological diseases, announced new findings from a biomarker study in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with exon 20 insertion (exon20ins) mutations, highlighting sunvozertinib as an effective treatment for this patient population. The findings have been published in an abstract (#8563) available on the official website of the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) Annual Meeting.

A total of 121 patients with EGFR exon20ins mutations treated with sunvozertinib were included in this biomarker study. Serial plasma ctDNA samples were collected from baseline until disease progression (PD). The key findings of the analysis were as follows:

Antitumor efficacy of sunvozertinib was observed in patients regardless of baseline EGFR exon20ins status in plasma ctDNA.

There was a positive correlation between detectable EGFR exon20ins in baseline plasma ctDNA and higher number of metastasis sites.

Higher abundance of EGFR exon20ins in baseline plasma ctDNA was positively correlated with more metastasis sites and brain metastasis (BM).

Patients with baseline negative EGFR exon20ins in plasma ctDNA achieved a higher objective response rate (ORR) (68.0% vs. 45.8%) and longer median progression free survival (PFS) (7.4 months vs. 5.5 months) than those with positive EGFR exon20ins.

Sunvozertinib could effectively clear EGFR exon20ins in plasma ctDNA, confirming its direct effect on EGFR pathway.

Decrease of EGFR exon20ins mutant allele was observed in 85.7% of patients with sunvozertinib treatment.

The earliest clearance of EGFR exon20ins occurred after one week of sunvozertinib treatment.

The resistance to sunvozertinib could be through EGFR-dependent and EGFR-independent mechanisms and combination of golidocitinib, a JAK1 inhibitor, with chemotherapy could be a potential approach to overcome sunvozertinib resistance.

Acquired EGFR C797S and other genetic aberrations in EGFR downstream signaling pathway may be associated with resistance to sunvozertinib.

In vitro and in vivo experiments suggested that combination of golidocitinib, a JAK1 inhibitor, with chemotherapy could be a potential approach to overcome sunvozertinib resistance.

"This biomarker study selected for poster presentation at 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting helps us further optimize treatment options for NSCLC patients with EGFR exon20ins mutations, and at the same time validates sunvozertinib's efficiency of clearance of EGFR exon20ins mutations." said Xiaolin Zhang, PhD, CEO of Dizal, "Supported by positive findings from the WU-KONG6 study, a pivotal study with patients from China, sunvozertinib was approved in China in relapsed or refractory setting, making it the world's first and only oral drug for the treatment of NSCLC patients with EGFR exon20ins mutations. The latest data from WU-KONG1 Part B, the equivalent study with patients worldwide, will be unveiled at the upcoming ASCO meeting. The study met its predefined primary end point and was statistically significant, providing substantial evidence for successful NDA submissions of sunvozertinib in the US, the EU and other overseas markets."

WU-KONG1 Part B is a multinational pivotal study, currently being conducted across ten countries and regions in Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. The primary analysis showed that sunvozertinib demonstrated promising antitumor efficacy in relapsed or refractory NSCLC with EGFR exon20ins, with a tolerable safety profile. The updated data will be presented orally at the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting (Abstract #8513).

- End -

About sunvozertinib (DZD9008)

Sunvozertinib is an irreversible EGFR inhibitor discovered by Dizal scientists targeting a wide spectrum of EGFR mutations with wild-type EGFR selectivity. In August 2023, sunvozertinib received approval from NMPA to treat advanced NSCLC with EGFR exon20ins mutations after platinum-based chemotherapies. The approval is based on the results of WU-KONG6 study, the pivotal study of sunvozertinib in platinum-based chemotherapy pretreated NSCLC with EGFR exon20ins mutations. The primary endpoint of the study was the confirmed overall response rate (cORR) as assessed by the Independent Review Committee (IRC) reached 60.8%. Anti-tumor efficacy was observed across a broad range of EGFR exon20ins subtypes, and in patients with pretreated and stable brain metastasis. In addition, sunvozertinib also demonstrated encouraging anti-tumor activity in NSCLC patients with EGFR sensitizing, T790M, and uncommon mutations (such as G719X, L861Q, etc.), as well as HER2 exon20ins mutations.

Sunvozertinib showed a well-tolerated and manageable safety profile in the clinic. The most common drug-related TEAEs (treatment-emergent adverse event) were Grade 1/2 in nature and clinically manageable.

Two global pivotal studies are ongoing in  2nd line (WU-KONG1 Part B) and 1st line setting (WU-KONG28), respectively, in NSCLC patients with EGFR exon20ins mutations.

Pre-clinical and clinical results of sunvozertinib were published in peer-reviewed journals Cancer Discovery (IF:39.397) and The Lancet Respiratory Medicine (IF: 76.2).

About Dizal

Dizal is a biopharmaceutical company, dedicated to the discovery, development and commercialization of differentiated therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and immunological diseases. The company aims to develop first-in-class and groundbreaking new medicines, and further address unmet medical needs worldwide. Deep-rooted in translational science and molecular design, it has established an internationally competitive portfolio with two leading assets in global pivotal studies and one already launched.

To learn more about Dizal, please visit www.dizalpharma.com, or follow us on Linkedin or Twitter.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", and "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Dizal, are intended to identify certain forward-looking statements. Dizal does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections, and understandings of the management of Dizal with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, some of which are beyond Dizal's control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, Dizal's competitive environment, and political, economic, legal, and social conditions.

Dizal, the Directors, and the employees of Dizal assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained on this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialize or turnout to be incorrect.

Contacts

Investor Relations: [email protected]

Business Development: [email protected]

SOURCE Dizal Pharmaceutical
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. , May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (iaedp) 2024 Virtual Symposium will run from July 8 through September 30. The global online event mirrors the highly successful in-person symposium, featuring the same renowned speakers and keynotes. The symposium offers Continuing Education Units (CEUs), which are crucial for professionals seeking to maintain their certifications and enhance their skills. Global attendees of the Spanish track will receive a Diploma of Participation.

The virtual format provides a flexible and accessible platform for professionals with two goals in mind: Allowing participants to have access to cutting-edge content and gain valuable insights without the need to travel and for those who attended the Symposium in person in Orlando in March to have access to all the other sessions they were not able to attend.

"We have a large international chapter in addition to our U.S.-based chapters. So, our virtual symposium is designed to extend the reach of iaedp's high-quality professional training to those around the world who were unable to travel," said Dawn Gannon, iaedp Interim Executive Director. "We are proud to offer the same exceptional lineup of experts and topics online, providing valuable learning opportunities and connections with like-minded peers from around the world."

The event is free for those who attended the in-person symposium, demonstrating iaedp's commitment to ongoing education. For those who wish to attend virtually, the registration fee is $395, which grants full access to all keynote sessions, workshops, and panel discussions. For only $495, attendees have access to all the Core Courses that are needed to become a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist (CEDS).

To register and for more information about the array of topics and global speakers in English and Spanish, visit iaedpfoundation.com/symposium and view the schedule.

The iaedp Foundation, since 1985, has provided education and training standards to an international and multidisciplinary group of various healthcare treatment providers and helping professions. The iaedp Foundation's President's Council, which provides organization support, includes Alsana Eating Disorder Treatment & Recovery Centers; Banyan; Center for Change; Center for Discovery; Clear Step; Eating Recovery Center; Eating Disorder Recovery Specialists; Koru Spring Center; Laureate Eating Disorders Program; The Meadows Ranch; Mind Over Body; Monte Nido; Montecatini; Moriah Behavioral Health; Odyssey Eating Disorder Network; Rogers Behavioral Health; The Renfrew Center; Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center; Within Health; and WD Recovery and Wellness Center.

SOURCE iaedp Foundation
NEW YORK, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. (NYSE: ELS) resulting from allegations that Equity LifeStyle Properties may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Equity LifeStyle Properties securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=22421 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On January 22, 2024, after market hours, Equity LifeStyle Properties filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") a current report on Form 8-K in which it announced that "[f]ollowing receipt of a further Comment Letter in which the Staff of the SEC informed the Company it disagreed with the materiality conclusion, the Company and the Audit Committee  determined that the error was material to its previously issued financial statements, as included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 (the 'Prior Period Financial Statements')." Equity LifeStyle Properties further stated that it "determined that the Prior Period Financial Statements, as well as, any reports, related earnings releases, investor presentations or similar communications of the Company's Prior Period Financial Statements, should no longer be relied upon."

On this news, Equity LifeStyle Properties' stock fell $1.96 per share, or 2.84%, to close at $67.00 per share on January 23, 2024. The next day, it fell $1.45 per share, or 2.16%, to close at $65.55 per share on January 24, 2024.

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. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
More than 600 local suppliers and 225 multinational exporter companies under the Definitive Regime and the Free Zones Regime, generated 2,100 business appointments.

Production chains recorded remarkable growth of 52% according to data from PROCOMER.

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In order to boost the Costa Rican market and meet constantly evolving business demands, the Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) and the Association of Free Trade Zone Companies of Costa Rica (AZOFRAS) organized Encadenados 2024, the business conference that seeks to generate commercial relationships, chains, and connections between local and multinational suppliers under the Definitive Regime (RD) and the Free Zones Regime (RZF).

This year, more than 600 Costa Rican suppliers and 200 companies under both regimes made 2,100 business appointments in the third edition of the event, a record edition since the number of appointments reached in previous years doubled: 600 in 2022 and 1,000 in 2023.

"Encadenados 2024 is much more than an annual business event; it's a platform that drives growth and business collaboration in Costa Rica. Under the slogan 'Together we achieve more', and looking to strengthen the national supply chain and meet constantly evolving business demands, Encadenados represents an invaluable opportunity for the economic and business development of the country, "said Laura Lopez, General Manager of PROCOMER.

Companies led by women made a significant contribution to the third edition of Encadenados, representing 50% of attendees at the business conference, in their capacity as both buyers and suppliers. On the other hand, suppliers located outside the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) achieved remarkable success with participating companies, which is becoming an additional incentive for companies interested in setting up in these parts of the country.

More than 400 multinational companies have set up in Costa Rica and one of the factors that has been key in the country's value proposition has been the broad ecosystem of local suppliers that has been developed with the support of PROCOMER. This network of Costa Rican suppliers, from various goods and services sectors, provides logistics agility and a reduction in time and costs to companies that invest, resulting in a competitive advantage in their operations.

"Participation by women and the success of companies outside the GAM at Encadenados 2024 show the diversity and strength characterizing the Costa Rican business fabric. These results reflect our commitment to inclusion and regional collaboration to boost sustainable economic growth in our country; fundamental elements for the promotion of our exports and the attraction of new investments for Costa Rica."

The food sector stood out as the most dynamic by closing opportunities quickly and effectively. Other industrial and service sectors are launching their processes of validation, sampling and testing in the coming days, as they need to comply with other requirements in order to integrate into global value chains.

Encadenados 2024 closed with $2 billion in business opportunities. This figure is expected to increase as 100 additional appointments were scheduled after the event. According to data from PROCOMER, companies in the Free Trade Zone buy more than $5 billion from micro, small, medium and large companies locally. In addition, they report a 52% growth in the securing of production chains over the last year.

Contact: Ofelia Fernandez Valverde, [email protected] & Esteban Chaves Trejos, [email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2419924/Encadenados_2024__1.jpg
Beijing (Gasgoo)- Recently, KargoBot, the autonomous truck solution developer backed by DiDi, received a permit for Level 4 autonomous truck platooning tests on public roads in Beijing, the company announced on May 23.

Photo credit: KargoBot

This marks the first approval following the city's release of management guidelines for intelligent connected heavy truck platooning, outlining both technological validation and commercial exploration pathways. KargoBot is a key representative of this development strategy.

KargoBots vehicles have met a series of requirements, including basic platooning performance, driving capabilities, and emergency response, enabling them to conduct platooning tests in Beijing. This approval highlights KargoBot's technical prowess and commercial potential, providing essential support and management assurance for future large-scale commercial operations of unmanned truck platoons.

As a pioneer in Level 4 autonomous platooning technology, KargoBot began developing and testing truck platoons led by a single driver in a lead vehicle in 2020. The company focuses on addressing challenges in bulk logistics transportation with its innovative hybrid unmanned platooning solution. This solution enables the fleet to automatically form, disband, change lanes, navigate social vehicles, efficiently pass through toll stations, and handle traffic lights.

KargoBot currently operates in North and Northwest China, conducting routine tests and operations in various scenarios, offering end-to-end intelligent transportation for short, medium, and long-distance routes. As of May this year, KargoBot's Level 4 autonomous trucks have transported over 32 million tonne-kilometers of bulk goods, with total demonstration operation distance exceeding 6 million kilometers.
Manufacturers are witnessing operational transformations, efficiency gains, and improved customer relationships by enhancing durable goods tracking through revolutionary technologies. The global IT research and advisory firm's latest resource provides insights on how the integration of control tower systems can reshape the manufacturing industry.

TORONTO, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - In the fast-paced landscape of manufacturing and durable goods industries, seamless supply chain operations have never been more critical. Manufacturers face challenges in timely product delivery, supplier reliability, and customer satisfaction while striving to enhance operational efficiency in a cost-sensitive environment. Addressing these complexities is the concept of control tower integration. To help the manufacturing industry overcome these ongoing challenges, Info-Tech Research Group has published its latest industry blueprint, Harmonizing Complexity: Control Tower Integration. This comprehensive research provides manufacturing IT leaders with insights to harness exponential technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT). By leveraging emerging technologies, organizations can access timely data crucial for driving operational excellence and ensuring customer and employee satisfaction.

Info-Tech Research Group's "Harmonizing Complexity: Control Tower Integration" blueprint highlights modern control tower integration service capabilities that can tackle various challenges of the manufacturing industry. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group)

"The manufacturing industry faces a formidable challenge in meeting customer demands characterized by increased technology adoption, shorter lead times, greater transparency requirements, and decreased tolerance," says Kevin Tucker, advisory practice lead at Info-Tech Research Group. "The technology ecosystems that manufacturing businesses can adopt are drastically changing, and the new solutions that they are adopting call for significantly different skill sets."

According to Info-Tech's recently published research, manufacturers can face significant challenges in integrating control towers, primarily due to ineffective collaboration between IT and OT. Many of these organizations operate in silos, leading to poor communication and hampering integration efforts. The industry also struggles with the complexities of legacy systems and intricate supply chain operations that involve multiple suppliers, manufacturers, and distribution networks. Furthermore, a shortage of skilled specialists capable of effectively managing and operating a modern control tower exacerbates these challenges.

"The manufacturing industry has traditionally held onto legacy equipment as long as it continued to make money without being exposed to excessive risk," explains Tucker. "With the market shifting toward a cloud model and integration with legacy on-premises solutions becoming less viable, it is no longer practical to keep legacy equipment in place."

The firm's blueprint highlights several control tower integration service capabilities designed to tackle the challenges of the manufacturing industry. These capabilities, listed below, can facilitate real-time information sharing among customers and businesses to enable more efficient operations and better decision-making:

Control Center : Streamlines operations through orchestration, visualization, and collaboration.

: Streamlines operations through orchestration, visualization, and collaboration. Communication Services : Enables real-time information sharing via collaboration, sensing, analysis, planning, and response.

: Enables real-time information sharing via collaboration, sensing, analysis, planning, and response. Decision Management Services : Optimizes demand, inventory, and supply management decision-making.

: Optimizes demand, inventory, and supply management decision-making. Integration Services : Facilitates seamless data exchange through protocols, sensing, and integration.

: Facilitates seamless data exchange through protocols, sensing, and integration. Advanced Intelligence: Leverages AI, ML, and deep learning for actionable insights.

As manufacturers navigate the demands of a rapidly changing market landscape, implementing a supply chain control tower is not just a strategic advantage but a fundamental necessity for sustainable growth. Info-Tech advises that by providing real-time insights and enabling proactive decision-making, control towers offer a competitive edge in the industry, ensuring that manufacturers can adapt swiftly to market changes, optimize operations, and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.

For exclusive and timely commentary from Kevin Tucker, an expert in the manufacturing sector, and access to the complete Harmonizing Complexity: Control Tower Integration blueprint, please contact [email protected].

Info-Tech LIVE 2024

Registration is now open for Info-Tech Research Group's annual IT conference, Info-Tech LIVE 2024, taking place September 17 to 19, 2024, at the iconic Bellagio in Las Vegas. This premier event offers journalists, podcasters, and media influencers access to exclusive content, the latest IT research and trends, and the opportunity to interview industry experts, analysts, and speakers. To apply for media passes to attend the event or gain access to research and expert insights on trending topics, please contact [email protected].

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

To learn more about Info-Tech's divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm's Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact [email protected].

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group
MADISON, Wis., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Everlight Solar, Wisconsin's largest home solar company, proudly hosted its first Career Exploration field trip for local high school seniors. Students from three high schools in the Madison area visited Everlight Solar's headquarters to engage in a day of immersive, hands-on activities designed to introduce them to potential careers in the solar industry.

Everlight Solar is committed to supporting educational initiatives that promote sustainability and innovation. Post this Everlight Solar hosts students from three local Wisconsin high schools for their Career Exploration Event. Everlight staff member trains students on what it means to work in the renewable energy industry.

Around 150 students from Madison East High School, Middleton High School, and Oregon High School participated in the event. The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Everlight Solar's Director of Electrical Operations, Sales Development Manager, and numerous members of Everlight's recruitment team. Each party shared insights about the company's mission and the growing importance of renewable energy.

The students then rotated through various activity stations that highlighted different career paths within Everlight Solar. In the sales games session, students practiced their communication skills, learning the fundamentals of sales through role-playing exercises. The construction relay races gave students a taste of the hands-on hard work involved in installing solar panels, promoting teamwork and problem-solving.

One of the most anticipated activities was the mock interview session. Guided by the company's recruitment professionals, they received valuable feedback on their resumes and interview techniques, gaining confidence and practical skills that will serve them in future job searches.

"This event is all about inspiring the next generation and showing them the exciting opportunities that a career in solar energy can offer. There's an insane amount of jobs in the renewable energy sector, so it's really important to show these students the extent of what's out there - and the opportunities are endless," said Rebekah Harris, Associate Manager of Recruitment at Everlight Solar.

Everlight Solar is committed to supporting educational initiatives that promote sustainability and innovation. By hosting events like the Career Exploration field trip, the company hopes to spark interest in renewable energy careers and build lasting connections with local schools.

About Everlight Solar

Everlight Solar is the fastest-growing solar company in the Midwest, with operations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Idaho, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. In their first year of eligibility, Everlight Solar was ranked number 632 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list with a staggering 930% growth rate. To learn more about open jobs or about going solar for your own home, visit www.everlightsolar.com.

SOURCE Everlight Solar
CALGARY, AB, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Frontera Energy Corporation (TSX: FEC) ("Frontera" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results from its 2024 annual meeting of shareholders held today (the "Meeting").

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

Shareholders elected each of the nominees proposed by management as set forth in the management information circular of the Company dated April 4, 2024. The total number of shares represented by shareholders present in person or by proxy at the Meeting was 57,595,377, representing approximately 67.99% of Frontera's issued and outstanding common shares. The directors achieved an average approval vote of 98.40% from shareholders.

The detailed results of the vote are set out below:

Nominee Outcome of Vote Voted Voted (%) Gabriel de Alba Approved 54,200,273 Voted For 723,717 Withheld 98.68% 1.32% Luis F. Alarcon Mantilla Approved 53,212,302 Voted For 1,711,688 Withheld 96.88% 3.12% W. Ellis Armstrong Approved 54,247,766 Voted For 676,224 Withheld 98.77% 1.23% Orlando Cabrales Segovia Approved 54,187,823 Voted For 736,167 Withheld 98.66% 1.34% Russell Ford Approved 54,244,379 Voted For 679,611 Withheld 98.76% 1.24% Veronique Giry Approved 54,193,995 Voted For 729,995 Withheld 98.67% 1.33%

Each of the directors elected at the Meeting will hold office until the close of the next annual meeting of shareholders of the Company or until he or she resigns or his or her successor is duly elected or appointed pursuant to the Articles of the Company.

Detailed voting results for all resolutions considered by shareholders at the Meeting are contained in the report of voting results, which is available on SEDAR+ under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca .

BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP

The Company has the following committees: Audit Committee, Compensation and Human Resources Committee ("CHRC"), and Corporate Governance, Nominating, and Sustainability Committee ("CGNSC"). The current committee membership is set forth below:

Committee Members Audit Committee W. Ellis Armstrong (Chair) Luis F, Alarcon Mantilla Russell Ford CHRC Gabriel de Alba (Chair) Veronique Giry Russell Ford CGNSC Luis F. Alarcon Mantilla (Chair) W. Ellis Armstrong Veronique Giry

About Frontera

Frontera Energy Corporation is a Canadian public company involved in the exploration, development, production, transportation, storage, and sale of oil and natural gas in South America, including related investments in both upstream and midstream facilities. The Company has a diversified portfolio of assets with interests in 24 exploration and production blocks in Colombia, Ecuador, and Guyana, and pipeline and port facilities in Colombia. Frontera is committed to conducting business safely and in a socially, environmentally, and ethically responsible manner.

If you would like to receive News Releases via email as soon as they are published, please subscribe here:

http://fronteraenergy.mediaroom.com/subscribe .

Social Media

Follow Frontera Energy social media channels at the following links:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fronteraenergy?lang=en

Facebook: https://es-la.facebook.com/FronteraEnergy/

LinkedIn: https://co.linkedin.com/company/frontera-energy-corp.

SOURCE Frontera Energy Corporation
The Hydrogen2Power event, held at the Palmer Center in Austin, TX, drew over one hundred attendees from organizations as diverse as The Texas Commission on Environmental Equality, GE Vernova, the University of Texas at Austin, and the City of Austin Fire Department. All were on hand to learn about the sustainability and resilience challenges facing the U.S. energy sector and to preview how the GenCell EVOX and GenCell REX products contribute to resolving these issues.

The day  taking place only days after thunderstorms caused power outages affecting over a million customers in the Houston area - kicked off with a keynote address about the challenges for Texas to achieve resilience by Karl Popham, Chair of the Electric Vehicle Leadership Council and founder of Mobility+Energy Consulting LLC. Popham discussed meeting the key power challenge of reliability  which talks in seconds, minutes and hours - by describing his experience establishing a hybrid microgrid; next he suggested meeting the challenge of resiliency  which talks in hours, days and weeks  by adding a second phase to the microgrid incorporating new technologies such as hydrogen.

Next up was held a thought-provoking panel on energy and climate resilience moderated by Andrew Higgins, Chair of the Board at TxETRA, featuring Ken Snipes, Director of Austin's Office of Homeland Security; Jay Joseph, VP, Sustainability & Business Development, American Honda; Brian Hoff, VP Product Management, GE Vernova; Teesee Murray, Turtle Chief Strategist and President, TurtleX, and Michael Lewis, Sr. Research Engineer/Scientist at the University of Texas. The panelists shared their insights on the constraints limiting grid resilience, the need for innovation and the potential of hydrogen to overcome the constraints.

"The potential of hydrogen is just starting to be realized. Hydrogen is a great enabler of renewables on our grid, for bottling the wind and solar, transporting, exporting and moving it around the world," explained panelist Jay Joseph, American Honda Motor. "The energy density of hydrogen, its storability and transportability lends itself really well to solving that problem and that's a big part of the future we envision. That's why we are excited about the relationship with GenCell because it helps enable that vision of generating, storing, transporting, and then utilizing hydrogen when and where it's needed."

Added Teesee Murray from Turtle Inc., "Hydrogen offers the best resilience with the lowest environmental impact and when we talk about social justice and how we can improve the human condition for everybody, hydrogen is the answer - it's green business, it's good business."



Following the panel GenCell CEO Rami Reshef presented to the delighted crowd how the EVOX and REX technologies can help bridge the power gap and deliver agile resilient power wherever first responders require it when disasters happen, keeping EV fleets and facilities operationally ready 24/7."

"Our journey is driven by a bold vision: to realize a comprehensive, emission-free energy future. In the first phase we focused on Hydrogen2Power technology," said Reshef. "We are powering commercial applications with long-lasting tested backup solutions, tailored for even the most remote or extreme conditions. The conversations and connections made here today are just the beginning."

Continued Reshef, "GenCell harnesses the elements to generate power that is both Resilient and Sustainable  it doesn't have to be a tradeoff  to deliver zero-emission, distributed energy wherever the grid is instable or insufficient, empowering the world for future generations."

The event also showcased live demos of the REX auxiliary DC power solution for utility substations, the containerized EVOX hydrogen-fueled long-duration DER solution, including a demonstration of the EVOX charging a Ford Lightning truck and a demo of GenCell's GEMS proprietary DERMS software that optimizes the performance and economics of operating GenCell solutions.

Event attendees came away with not just a better understanding of how GenCell hydrogen fuel technology works, but how attainable a truly sustainable and resilient energy system can be.

"Capturing solar and wind in a bottle, this demonstration showed a lot of promise," said Amy Atchley, EV Equity Development Manager for Austin Energy. "The conversations featured an emphasis on powering critical locations, decarbonizing transportation, providing renewable energy access to vulnerable communities and more. Experiencing the show and tell of the life-size very quiet, clean generator that was charging-up an EV on-site made it feel real and was inspiring! Exciting stuff! It will take much collaboration between multiple stakeholders and entities for infrastructure deployment and affordability."

For more information, you can watch a recording of the event here. Photos with credits are below.

About GenCell:

GenCell Ltd. (TASE: GNCL) develops GreenFSG power solutions based on reliable, zero-emission alkaline fuel cells, Hydrogen2Power, Ammonia2Power and Water2Power technologies that deliver uninterrupted power to help the world #SayNoToDiesel and transition to clean energy. The ability to produce not only clean power from GenCell's fuel cells, but also the green fuel on which the fuel cells run, sets GenCell in a far superior position as a well-to-wheel total green energy solution provider. GenCell delivers resilient, robust and weather-resistant backup power for utilities, telecom, EV charging and other mission-critical applications which have been deployed in 23 countries. GenCell numbers some 130 employees, including veterans of space and submarine projects. With GenCell Inc. based in Los Angeles, CA, the company operates a worldwide distribution and support network and retains unique intellectual property that includes patents, trade secrets and know-how.

CONTACTS:

Shelli Zargary

GenCell Ltd.

[email protected]

www.gencellenergy.com

Tel: +972.54.561.7161

Bethany Ruhe

[email protected]

Tel: 412.443.7969

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2420873/GenCell_Energy_1.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2420872/GenCell_Energy_2.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2303086/GenCell_Logo.jpg

SOURCE GenCell Energy
XI'AN, China, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tender yet powerful, culture opens up windows for Chinese and Americans to understand each other and builds bridges between hearts.



I sat enraptured as students from Brigham Young University sang the Chinese song "Jasmine Flower," while students from China's Shaanxi Province performed the song "Moon River." The former has been a cultural symbol of China because of Puccini's opera Turandot, while the latter is familiar to Chinese people due to the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's.



The two groups met at the opening of 14th China-US Tourism Leadership Summit in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, a vivid example of people-to-people exchanges between China and the US.



"I could not tell you how good it is to be back," Todd Davidson, board chair of Brand USA, a marketing organization in the US, said in his speech at the event. He noted that even though some things had changed in the six years since his last trip to China, "what has not changed is the warm, welcoming hospitality of the Chinese people."



"The summit is especially full of hope and optimism for me," he said in his speech, noting that he looks forward to "walking this new Silk Road together with each and every one of you in the future."



Chris Clark, chairman of Visa Asia Pacific, shared his story of being a teacher at the Xi'an Foreign Languages Institute in 1986 and the good time he had back then.



"One of the areas that we have the greatest opportunity to really capitalize on cultural exchanges and people-to-people exchanges is in working with student groups," Davidson said.



"There is power in that. What more we can do is to grow those exchanges - educational exchanges, cultural exchanges - which are going to be a powerful motivator for growing the relationship between the two countries," he added.



This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the US. The foundation of China-US relations is laid by people, the door of China-US relations is opened by people, the stories of China-US relations are written by people, and the future of China-US relations will be jointly created by the people of the two countries.



In September 1973, the Philadelphia Orchestra toured China, the first US orchestra to do so since 1949. Musicians from both countries played the Chinese orchestral piece The Moon's Reflection on the Second Spring, which became a cherished memory for many. Fifty years later in 2023, the familiar melody again resonated across a music hall with the performance of musicians from both sides, a new chapter in the five-decade-long friendship.



Same as music, tourism is an important bridge for exchanges and mutual understanding between the people of China and the US. US tourists are welcome to travel in China, meet Chinese friends, experience Chinese culture, visit beautiful landscapes and experience the real China.



Brian Linden, who has lived in China for years and is operating a unique hotel in Southwest China's Yunnan Province, told me at the welcoming gala that he was glad to see so many representatives from both the Chinese and US tourism industries.



"It is very a good start," he said.



After the summit, he shared on social media, "Although it has been five years since the last summit, all of our discussions have been related to China-US tourism and people-to-people exchanges. We all hope that the number of tourists from China and the United States can return to pre-pandemic levels, and this summit is an important step in the right direction. I am inspired by the spirit behind this summit."



When standing on the ancient city wall of Xi'an, also known as Chang'an, Rowena E Minott was "impressed about the city and its rich culture like the Tang Dynasty and the world-known Terracotta Warriors."



Seeing is believing. I still remember that when I got off the high speed train from Beijing to Xi'an, in front of me was a family of four including two kids from Europe. One of them said, "Mummy, is here Xi'an yet? I want to see the Terracotta Warriors now."



See, culture always finds a way.

SOURCE Global Times
HoneyNaps secures $11.6 million in series B funding, propelling its entry into the American medical market.

BOSTON, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- HoneyNaps, an industry-leading South Korean company in artificial intelligence (AI) sleep data analysis, announced on the 7th that it has closed its series B round of funding, securing $11.6 million.

The series B funding is a successful achievement, nearly three times the $3.9 million raised through series A funding back in 2021. With the listing contract signed with Korea Investment & Securities Co., Ltd. in March 2024, the company is poised to become the no. 1 listed company in Sleep Technology (Sleep-Tech) that features an AI bio signal model.

HoneyNaps Solutions

In this round, many institutions participated as new investors such as Korea Industrial Bank, Hi investment Partners and QUAD Investment Management. Despite a freeze-up in venture investment, this series B round achieved an early close due to overbooking, driven by overwhelming participation from prestigious domestic and foreign investors.

Founded in July 2015, HoneyNaps has amassed about $16.2 million to date, starting with seed funding for about $0.7 million, secured through success-share-funding from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups in 2019. This funding marks the largest scale among recent financings secured by domestic Sleep-Tech companies.

HoneyNaps obtained FDA approval for its AI sleep diagnosis software SOMNUM in 2023, establishing partnerships with major university hospitals across the U.S. through its Boston-based American branch. The domestic sales growth coupled with the perceived potential for export to the American medical market are cited as key drivers to the company's success in funding.

SOMNUM is an algorithm that analyzes bio signal data during sleep and provides disease diagnoses under five minutes using its self-developed AI model. This AI diagnosis software is integrable into any medical and healthcare market using real-time large-scale bio signal.

In particular, the company invested nine years to develop X.AI (eXplainable AI), a crucial component for the medical field. They have also registered 16 original patents and published SCIE-Level thesis, enhancing the technical value provided to its clients.

HoneyNaps' CFO states, "This successful funding amidst a challenging investment climate has validated our position as Korea's leading Sleep-Tech company", adding, "These resources will enable us to achieve results in the domestic and American medical market and earn recognition. Beyond the SOMNUM's current use in sleep disease diagnosis, we plan to further advance the AI to expand its application to other critical areas such as cardiovascular disease, dementia, and Parkinson's disease".

For additional information, please contact:

HoneyNaps USA, Inc.

Christine Kwon / Managing Director

Email: [email protected]

Address: 6 Liberty SQ PMB 6202, Boston, MA 02109

Website: www.honeynaps.com

SOURCE HoneyNaps
With more than $12 million raised since the campaign's inception, brands continue giving back to communities where they do business

FRANKLIN, Tenn., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In advance of the Memorial Day Holiday, CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Carl's Jr. and Hardee's is announcing today the start of its 13th annual Stars for Heroes fundraising campaign. The campaign raises funds and awareness for active-duty military, veterans and families in need and runs from May 27 (Memorial Day) to July 4 at participating Carl's Jr. and Hardee's restaurants across the country.

Carl's Jr. and Hardee's announces the start of the 13th annual Stars for Heroes fundraising campaign to support active-duty military, veterans and families.

During the campaign, guests have the opportunity to donate $1 or more at the register to support local and national nonprofits like USA Cares and various local charities selected by individual franchisees. USA Cares provides housing, healthcare and advocacy assistance to post-9/11, active-duty military, veterans and families.

"At CKE Restaurants, we proudly work alongside and serve thousands of veterans and veteran family members each day," said Carl's Jr. USA President Blake Devillier and Hardee's USA President Chris Bode. "This annual campaign is our way of giving back to them, thanking them for their service, and strengthening the bonds we have within our communities."

In 2022, USA Cares helped provide over $1,409,000 in assistance to 845 veterans and military families over the course of the year. Programs range from the Military Assistance Response Program, which provides financial assistance as a result of a military service-related injury, to the Career Transition Program, which provides individuals with tools and resources to better prepare them for the hiring process.

"No matter the reason our veterans come to us for assistance, our goal is to be a stable source of support for them during their most critical times of need," said Trace Chesser, chief executive officer of USA Cares. "We are committed to improving the quality of life for the veterans we work with and their families, and we are grateful for CKE Restaurants' role in helping us make this possible."

The annual Stars for Heroes campaign is made possible by the Star Franchise Association and Independent Hardee's Franchise Association. In addition to the national beneficiary, the Star Franchise Association and Independent Hardee's Franchise Association have provided considerable support for local charities throughout the communities that CKE Restaurants serve.

To thank community members for their generosity, a special in-app promotional code is available to unlock an offer for 20 percent off any Carl's Jr. or Hardee's purchase. To claim, join or sign in to your My Rewards account and enter promotional code HEROES24. Once unlocked, Members can redeem by applying offer to a digital order, or by adding to their Member QR code and scanning before checkout and their local Carl's Jr. or Hardee's restaurant. Terms apply, and can be viewed in the App.

Get the latest news and promotions from the brands, and redeem the special 2024 Stars for Heroes offer for veterans by downloading the Carl's Jr. or Hardee's apps below and joining My Rewards.

Download the Carl's Jr. App | Download the Hardee's App

About CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc.

CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc., a privately held company based in Franklin, Tennessee, runs and operates Carl's Jr. and Hardee's restaurants, two beloved brands, known for premium and innovative menu items such as iconic charbroiled burgers, Made from Scratch Biscuits and Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders. With both a U.S. and international footprint, Carl's Jr. Restaurants LLC and Hardee's Restaurants LLC have more than 3,600 franchised or company-operated restaurants domestically and more than 35 international markets and U.S. territories. For more information about CKE, please visit www.ckr.com or its brand sites at www.carlsjr.com and www.hardees.com.

SOURCE CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc.
All proceeds from the sale of the Indy 500 Race Day Suit will go towards The Helda Gerdau Institute

INDIANAPOLIS, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pietro Fittipaldi, driver of the #30 5-hour ENERGY Honda powered IndyCar of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing is auctioning off his race day suit from the upcoming 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 to benefit The Helda Gerdau Institute, a charity supporting families affected by the recent floods in Fittipaldi's home country of Brazil.

Pietro Fittipaldi holding his race day suit that is available for auction. Source: Hall of Fame Collection.

The state of Rio Grande do Sul has experienced devastating floods, displacing more than half a million families and causing an estimated $5 billion in damages. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to the institute to aid in relief efforts.

The auction includes the race day suit Fittipaldi will wear during the Indy 500 on May 26, as well as during Detroit Grand Prix the following weekend on June 2. The suit will be autographed by Fittipaldi and will come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The auction closes on Monday, May 27.

Fittipaldi is sponsored by 5-hour ENERGY, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary by returning to the world of motorsports through their partnership with RLL. They recently released a TV commercial featuring Fittipaldi.

5-hour ENERGY was founded by Manoj Bhargava, global philanthropist and signer of Warren Buffett's Giving Pledge, making a commitment to donate most of his wealth to philanthropic causes in his lifetime. Bhargava's philanthropy centers around the Billions in Change movement, which uplifts the poorest third of the world by providing fundamentals like clean water, reliable electricity and food.

For more information, or to place a bid, please visit www.HOfCollection.com.

About 5-hour ENERGY

Living Essentials launched its 5-hour ENERGY brand in 2004. The effective formula is found in its iconic shot and a 16-ounce carbonated drink. Trusted by hard-working people to get them through a hectic day, 5-hour ENERGY products are widely available in convenience, grocery, retail, club stores, and online outlets. 5-hour ENERGY shots are not intended for consumption by minors.

SOURCE 5-hour ENERGY
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, JUNE 6-7, 2024

FROM 9:30 AM TO 5:00 PM ET (EACH DAY)

VIRTUAL AND IN PERSON

WASHINGTON, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- HUD's Office of Policy Development & Research invites you to join hybrid panel discussions on housing innovation including individual sessions on offsite construction, building codes, manufactured housing, decarbonization, zoning, public and multifamily housing, resilience, and finance. Sessions will feature dynamic discussions between leaders across the public, private, and government sectors, with a special focus on the cross-sector collaborations needed to seed and scale innovative approaches to creating more abundant, affordable, and sustainable housing for all Americans.

The two-day program will kick off HUD's annual Innovative Housing Showcase (IHS). The 2024 IHS will be held on the National Mall and is a public event to raise awareness of innovative and affordable housing designs and technologies.

Please register at https://www.huduser.gov/portal/event/ihs/registration-June2024.html to attend the sessions in person or via webcast. The sessions will be held at the District Architecture Center (421 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004).

See below are details on the educational sessions. A full agenda is available on the event page.

Day 1: Thursday, June 6

Session 1: Innovation in Housing Construction and Innovation in Building Codes

9:30-11:30 am: Scaling Offsite Construction for Housing Supply, Affordability and Resilience, MOD X

11:30-1:00 pm: Housing Innovation through Codes & Standards: Insights from State and Local Governments and Manufacturers, International Code Council (ICC)

Session 2: Innovation in Manufactured Housing and Innovation for Decarbonization

1:30-3:00 pm: The Past, Present, and Future of Manufactured Housing, Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI)

3:00-5:00 pm: Building Decarbonization and Affordable Energy Efficiency, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Day 2: Friday, June 7

Session 1: Zoning Innovation and Innovation in Public and Multifamily Housing

9:30-11:30 am: Boosting Housing Supply through Zoning and Land Use Innovation, Ivory Innovations

11:30-1:00 pm: Improving Resident Experiences through Innovation in Public and Multifamily Housing, National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC)

Session 2: Innovation in Resilient Design and Financing and Scaling Innovation

1:30-3:00 pm: Innovations in Resilient Design through Community Planning and Technical Assistance, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

3:00-5:00 pm: Financing and Scaling Housing Innovation, Terner Center for Housing Innovation

Media Contact:

HUD User

8002452691

[email protected]

SOURCE HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
PITTSBURGH, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- "I thought there should be a simple accessory for door hinges to prevent an active shooter or other criminal from breaking in with an assault rifle," said an inventor, from Norton, Mass., "so I invented the ACTIVE SHOOTER. My design would provide hotels, schools, and offices with a better means of protecting people against this type of crime."

The patent-pending invention provides an effective way to secure a room or building against an armed attacker. In doing so, it offers an alternative to blocking the door with furniture or other items. As a result, it increases safety and security. It also provides added protection and peace of mind. The invention features a strong and easily accessible design that is easy to use and reusable so it is ideal for schools, hotels, office buildings and other applications to help thwart armed attackers.

The original design was submitted to the Boston sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 22-BKC-184, 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
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On May 22, JAC Group's new energy vehicle brand Yiwei held a ceremony at its smart factory to mark the export of the first batch of 300 Yiwei 3 (EV3) vehicles to the UAE. This event also signifies Yiwei's official entry into the UAE market.

Photo credit: JAC Group

The EV 3 is built on the second-generation DI platform, and is equipped with the world's first 9-in-1 electric drive system and a zero-heat-diffusion honeycomb battery, forming an exceptionally powerful powertrain. Currently, the EV 3 offers two versions with a respective range of 405 km and 505 km, and comes in six different variants.

With over 80 practical features, the EV3 features a competitive price starting at 89,900 yuan in China.

Photo credit: JAC Group

The entry of the EV3 into the UAE market is a result of JAC Groups sustained efforts in the region. Last year, JAC Group exported nearly 10,000 vehicles to the UAE, with over 7,000 units sold via retail, reflecting a year-on-year soar of 307.69%.

Aside from the UAE, on February 21, Yiwei also saw the first batch of 10,000 electric vehicles, including 5,000 units of the EV3 set sail to destinations in the Gulf region, as well as Central and South America.
Memorial Day is a special time to honor the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. In the spirit of gratitude, the brand is celebrating with an exclusive sale to thank their loyal customers. This limited-time offer is a perfect opportunity to experience the exceptional quality of It's a 10 Haircare, Be A 10 Cosmetics, and Ex10sions products at an exclusive discounted price.

Carolyn Aronson, Founder & CEO of It's a 10 Haircare, Be A 10 Cosmetics, and Ex10sions expressed her gratitude by saying, "We are deeply thankful for the continuous support of our loyal customers. Our Memorial Day Sale is a heartfelt way to show our appreciation. This event offers an excellent opportunity for everyone to enjoy our premium products at an exceptional value. We hope our customers seize this chance to experience the transformative benefits of our products and join us in celebrating Memorial Day."

The BOGO sale kicks off today, May 24th, 2024, on ItsA10Haircare.com and BeA10.com, and Hairex10sions.com and will run until 11:59 PM on May 27th, 2024. Shoppers can stock up on favorites like the OG It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner, Ex10sions luxurious tape-in's, Carolyn's favorite Scalp Serum or Be a 10's Begin 2 End Primer. Discounts are automatically applied at checkout.

About It's a 10 Haircare:

It's a 10 Haircare is an established, professional hair care line offering exceptional products via salons, beauty supply stores and retailers worldwide. As one of the only female-owned professional hair care brands in the world, It's a 10 Haircare is dedicated to providing customers with the best hair experience possible. It's 10 Haircare's collections include exceptional 10-in-1 multi-purpose products perfected and simplified to one unique lineup, providing solutions to all possible hair care needs.

About Be A 10 Cosmetics:

Be A 10 Cosmetics is a high-quality makeup line offering exceptional, multi-purpose products that offer simple beauty solutions. This fully-female-owned makeup brand is dedicated to providing customers with the best makeup experience possible. From priming products, eye shadows, foundation, mascara and everything in Between, Be A 10 Cosmetics aims to be the one-stop-shop that declutters your makeup bag and create professional-quality beauty looks in 10-minutes-or less.

MEDIA CONTACT:

5WPR

[email protected]

212-999-5585

SOURCE It's A 10 Haircare

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Parady, who served as a Lt. Colonel in the Air Force for 18 years, now serves others as a personal injury and workers' compensation lawyer.

DURHAM, N.C., May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin, one of the largest firms in North Carolina, has added accomplished attorney and Air Force veteran Leah Parady to its formidable roster.

Parady's experience in the military saw her stationed in hotspots across the globe, where she put her hospital and healthcare administration skills to work as the U.S. liaison to NATO for medical planning. Her critical duties included navigating cultural and geographical obstacles to help ensure that soldiers had access to the care they needed.

Before joining James Scott Farrin, which has recovered more than $1.8 billion in total compensation for more than 65,000 people since opening its doors, Parady had her own firm, providing legal services and free advice to veterans and representing them before the Department of Veterans Affairs.*

"Leah brings a proven track record of leadership, accomplishment, and service," says James Scott Farrin attorney and Partner Mike Jordan. "Her experience, incredible compassion, and can-do mindset are immense assets to our team. She is a skilled advocate, and she is always ready to go above and beyond to help others."

ABOUT THE LAW OFFICES OF JAMES SCOTT FARRIN

The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin is one of the largest personal injury firms in North Carolina and has helped over 65,000 injured people since 1997. Operating from 14 offices in NC and one in SC, many of the firm's 60+ accomplished attorneys are recognized professionals in their fields. The firm focuses on providing quality legal services to as many people as possible in the following practice areas: personal injury, car accidents, workers' compensation, whistleblowing, defective products, eminent domain, mass torts, class actions, and Social Security Disability.

Contact Information:

David Chamberlin

555 South Mangum Street, Suite 800

Durham, NC 27701

1-866-900-7078

https://www.farrin.com

Offices in Durham (main), Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, NC and Greenville, SC. Attorney Michael Shepherd: 555 South Mangum Street, Suite 800, Durham, NC

*Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases because each case is unique and must be evaluated separately.

SOURCE Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
- Lunit's ASCO 2024 presentations to highlight advances including HER2 ultra-low detection and AI-powered ICI response prediction models for NSCLC, demonstrating the impact of Lunit SCOPE suite on precision oncology

SEOUL, South Korea, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ), a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, today announced the presentation of seven studies at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2024 Annual Meeting in Chicago, from May 31 to June 4. Lunit will present detailed findings on several innovative studies, including the identification of HER2 ultra-low expression in breast cancer using AI-based quantification, and a deep learning-based model integrating chest CT and histopathology analysis for predicting immunotherapy response in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Visit Lunit at booth IH22 to discover how the Lunit SCOPE suite is revolutionizing oncology research and clinical practice.

In a poster presentation, Lunit's AI-powered HER2 analyzer, Lunit SCOPE HER2, demonstrated the ability to identify HER2 ultra-low expression and differentiate it from true HER2-negative cases in breast cancer patients using continuous subcellular quantification from HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) images.

According to findings presented at ASCO 2022, HER2-targeted antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) can effectively target tumor cells even in HER2-low breast cancers. This highlights the importance of accurately identifying HER2-low and HER2 ultra-low expression in breast cancer, especially for patients previously classified as HER2-negative. In response, Lunit developed an AI-based whole-slide image (WSI) analyzer for IHC-stained slides to differentiate between true HER2-negative and HER2 ultra-low cases. The AI model evaluated over 67 million tumor cells and 119 million non-tumor cells from 401 WSIs, identifying a significant proportion of HER2 ultra-low cases among pathologist-assessed HER2 score 0 cases. This AI-powered analysis could expand and refine treatment options for patients with HER2-targeted therapies, as demonstrated by the 23.6% of HER2 score 0 cases identified as HER2 ultra-low by AI, and the 51.9% of HER2 score 1+ cases classified as HER2 low by AI, comparable to the 52.3% objective response rate to a HER2-targeted ADC observed in another clinical trial.

In another study, Lunit developed and validated an AI model that analyzes patients' chest CT images alone and in combination with pathology images to predict Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor (ICI) response in NSCLC patients. Lunit's deep learning-based chest CT prediction model, developed using data from 1,876 NSCLC patients treated with ICIs, predicted treatment response based on pre-treatment chest CT scans, along with PD-L1 status and immune phenotype. The model demonstrated significant predictive power as an independent biomarker. Patients predicted as responders by the AI model showed significantly longer median time to the next treatment (TTNT; 7 months vs. 2.5 months) and a longer overall survival (OS; 16.5 months vs. 7.6 months) compared to patients predicted as non-responders. Combining the AI CT model with histopathologic biomarkers such as PD-L1 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) further enhanced prediction accuracy, highlighting the complementary strengths of imaging and pathology data in improving predictive models for ICI response.

A collaborative study with Stanford University School of Medicine examined the association of immune phenotypes with outcomes after immunotherapy in metastatic melanoma, highlighting the heterogeneity of immune phenotypes across melanoma subtypes.

Another study with Northwestern University utilized AI-powered analysis of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) in H&E whole-slide images to predict immunotherapy response in NSCLC patients. This demonstrated AI's potential in identifying predictive biomarkers for survival outcomes.

"At ASCO 2024, Lunit proudly presents seven groundbreaking studies that illustrate our pioneering role in AI-driven precision oncology," said Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit. "From HER2 quantification to predictive models for immunotherapy response, our work is transforming oncology by making cancer treatment not just personalized but predictive, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients worldwide."

In addition to the studies above, Lunit will present three more studies at this year's ASCO, demonstrating the diverse capabilities of the Lunit SCOPE suite. The studies include comprehensive histopathomic prediction models for early breast cancer, and hypothetical test-and-control group generation for treatment selection in TPS-high NSCLC.

Visit Lunit at booth IH22 to discover how the Lunit SCOPE suite is revolutionizing oncology research and clinical practice.

Presentations at ASCO 2024 featuring Lunit SCOPE include:

About Lunit

Founded in 2013, Lunit is a medical AI company on a mission to conquer cancer. We harness AI-powered medical image analytics and AI biomarkers to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment for each cancer patient. Our FDA-cleared Lunit INSIGHT suite for cancer screening serves over 3,000 hospitals and medical institutions across 40+ countries.

Our clinical findings are featured in top journals, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology and the Lancet Digital Health, and presented at global conferences such as the ASCO and RSNA.

In 2024, Lunit acquired Volpara Health Technologies, setting the stage for unparalleled synergy and accuracy, particularly in breast health and screening technologies.

Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, with a global network of offices, Lunit leads in medical AI innovation. Discover more at lunit.io .

SOURCE Lunit
HYDE PARK, N.Y., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Trustees of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) today announced the appointment of Michiel Bakker as the college's sixth president, effective September 1, 2024. Bakker will further the CIA's eight-decade legacy of leadership and excellence. The Board's decision follows an extensive, 10-month global search. Bakker succeeds Dr. Tim Ryan, the Institute's longest-serving president, who held the role since 2001 and who moves into the new role of chancellor.

Michiel Bakker has been appointed the sixth president of the Culinary Institute of America, effective September 1, 2024.

"In its 78-year history, the CIA has had just five presidentspretty astounding when you consider that the average college president's tenure is less than six years1," said Board Chair John Metz, Jr. "We were committed to finding the person who would ensure that the CIA continues to be the world's premier culinary college. Michiel Bakker's experience speaks for itself, and we are confident he is the president to build on the CIA's strong foundation and usher the college into its next era."

For the past 12 years, based in Mountain View, CA, Bakker worked in various global leadership roles at Google. From 2012 to 2021, he was responsible for Google's celebrated Food at Work program, supporting all foodservice-related activities and initiatives, as well as developing internal and external partnerships to explore and tackle the challenges and opportunities in global food systems.

He also led Google's Global Workplace Programs organization with overall responsibilities for the ongoing delivery of events, health & performance, transportation, and food at work services to more than 250,000 individuals worldwide. Most recently, Bakker steered the Global Workplace Strategy, Innovation, and Sustainability team, leading the work on Google's long-term workplace strategy, workplace experience, and sustainability efforts for Google's global office real estate portfolio.

Before joining Google in 2012, Bakker spent 17 years with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. in various hotel and global food and beverage operations roles. These included creating and building out partnerships, leading hotel food and beverage developments and openings, food experience design, and running hotel and food & beverage operations.

Bakker holds an Executive MSc degree in Real Estate and Construction Management from the University of Denver Daniels College of Business, a Master of Hospitality Administration degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, an MBA from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom, and a bachelor's degree in Hotel Administration from the Hotel Management School Maastricht in the Netherlands.

He is an active contributor to various advisory boards of organizations including the Yale Center for Customer Insights, the EAT Forum, the World Food Program Innovation Accelerator, and the Beans is How initiative. He is also a member of the James Beard Foundation's Board of Trustees and the Supervisory Board of the Dutch food waste focused startup Orbisk. In addition, Bakker hosts the Food Lab Talk podcast, which highlights bold visions and inspiring actions for the future of food systems, and he contributed a chapter to the book Food Inc. 2. He has been involved with the CIA for many years, serving on the advisory councils for the college's Sustainable Food Systems master's degree and its Menus of Change initiative, and he piloted the college's ProChef Plant-Forward Kitchen training and certification program at Google.

"Stepping into the role of president at the Culinary Institute of America is a dream come true for me, as the CIA is an organization I have admired and supported for so many years," Bakker said. "In this new role, I will be able to bring together my deep passion for all aspects of the food and beverage industry, lifelong learning, hospitality, and enabling individuals to be at their best. Building upon the college's legacy, reputation, and alumni network, I'm excited and eager to collaborate with the incredible faculty, staff, and stakeholders to propel the CIA forward, ensuring students continue to graduate with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic and most amazing and rewarding world of food and beverage."

Bakker was born and raised in the Netherlands and moved to the U.S. in 1995, to marry his wife Nicolette, a New York State native, who hails from Middletown. Over the subsequent years, they lived and worked in cities including Atlanta, GA; Gleneden Beach, OR; Washington, D.C.; Philadelphia, PA; Brussels, Belgium; and the San Francisco Bay Area. Currently they reside in Los Gatos, CA, and will relocate to New York for the position.

Bakker, now a proud Dutch-American, is an avid reader, has a deep affinity for food and food systems, and loves to hike, explore cities, and enjoy great meals with family and friends. He and Nicolette have two sons: Brian, a graduate of the University of Oregon, and Andrew, who is looking forward to graduating from Clemson University later this year.

About The Culinary Institute of America

Founded in 1946, The Culinary Institute of America is the world's premier culinary college. Dedicated to developing leaders in foodservice and hospitality, the independent, not-for-profit CIA offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees with majors in culinary arts, baking & pastry arts, food business management, hospitality management, culinary science, and applied food studies. The college also offers executive education, certificate programs, and courses for professionals and enthusiasts. Its conferences, leadership initiatives, and consulting services have made the CIA the think tank of the food industry and its worldwide network of nearly 55,000 alumni includes innovators in every area of the food world. The CIA has locations in New York, California, Texas, and Singapore. For more information, visit www.ciachef.edu.

SOURCE The Culinary Institute of America
NINGBO, China, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On the morning of May 23, the premier exhibition of "Ningbo in Light and Shadow" was launched in Cambodia. Chen Cong, Minister-Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, Prak Phannara, Secretary of State to Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia, Chhean Leang, Secretary of State to Ministry of Information of Cambodia and Choun Chanphearoun, Deputy Director General of Information and Broadcasting of the Ministry of Information of Cambodia attended the launching ceremony. The chambers of commerce of three levels (Ningbo, Zhejiang and China) in Cambodia, CNS reporters in Cambodia and reporters from Cambodian mainstream media have participated in the ceremony of the premier exhibition.

Ningbo folk band "Ling-Remix" of Chinese traditional characteristics performing at the ceremony of the premier exhibition (PRNewsfoto/Ningbo International Communications Center)

The premier exhibition was jointly organized by Ningbo International Communication Center (NICC), China Pictorial, and Ningbo Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, covering more than 20 Ningbo companies such as Seduno and Shenzhou International Group, with 120,000 employees in overseas factories in Cambodia.

It is reported that this is the first large-scale cultural exchange event in China that uses overseas factories as a platform to promote the image of the city to go global.

This photography exhibition has selected 90 excellent photographic works. In addition to showing the mountains and rivers, landmarks and intangible heritage of Zhejiang and China, there are also beautiful pictures from Ningbo, covering the port, industry, city, culture and other aspects. The purpose is to tell the story of China with photos, so that employees of overseas factories can better understand Ningbo.

The Sanjiangkou in Ningbo is both the outlet of China's Grand Canal and the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road. The monument "Point of Departure of the Maritime Tea Route" at Sanjiangkou tells the origin of Chinese tea going global. The remarks of these pictures have brought the viewers back to the ancient time, witnessing a fleet of tea, tea sets, cotton and silk, porcelain was shipped from here to Cambodia and other places around the world.

"Through the text explanation, I have learned that the Phnom Penh  Poipet high-speed railway built in cooperation with China is also advancing, and it will become more convenient to travel in the future, which is very exciting." said Shen Jinfa, an employee of Seduno (Cambodia) Knitting Co., Ltd.

A photo that is related to local social life also transcends the meaning of the photo itself and serves as a bridge to China-Cambodia friendship.

"I've never been to China, I've never been to the location of the headquarters. However, these photos make me have a wonderful imagination of Ningbo far away." Rasny, an employee of Seduno (Cambodia) Knitting Co., Ltd., said that she is very fond of the historical architecture and cultural art of Ningbo at this photo exhibition.

Many Ningbo companies such as Seduno have gathered in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. How to increase the cohesion between employees from different cultural backgrounds is a problem to deal with by many overseas factories.

"Through the photo exhibition, we have learned about the changes and development opportunities in China, as well as the development of this vibrant city of Ningbo." Chhean Leang, Secretary of State to Ministry of Information of Cambodia, greatly appreciates this approach, which allows people to know each other's situation intuitively.

"Ningbo in Light and Shadow" Global 100 Exhibitions on 100 Enterprises plans to hold 100 photography exhibitions in 100 overseas factories of Ningbo enterprises. The next step will be launching the exhibition at overseas factories of Ningbo enterprises in Bangladesh, Vietnam and other countries.

Contact: Huang Jin

Tel.: 0086-18868927982

E-mail: [email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2421717/Ningbo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2217761/4725607/Ningbo_International_Communications_Center_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Ningbo International Communications Center
KFAR SABA, Israel, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PathKeeper Surgical has been selected to exhibit their Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Optical Spine Navigation solution at the Vizient Innovative Technology Exchange. Vizient, Inc., the nation's largest provider-driven healthcare performance improvement company, will hold the Exchange Sept. 18 in Las Vegas.

PathKeeper Surgical, a company widely known for its cutting-edge optical navigation that prioritizes precision, safety, and minimization of radiation exposure, has been selected to exhibit their Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Optical Spine Navigation solution at the Vizient Innovative Technology Exchange.

The annual Innovative Technology Exchange offers selected suppliers the unique opportunity to demonstrate their product or service to supply chain and clinical leaders from Vizient's customer hospitals and subject matter experts who serve on their supply councils. Each product or service will showcase how it improves clinical outcomes, enhances safety or drives incremental improvements to health care delivery or business models.

PathKeeper Surgical is working to revolutionize Spinal Navigation with AI and IR Laser Optics. These combine to create a digital surgical platform, with no intraoperative radiation and accuracy for registration and tool tracking to less than a millimeter. Furthermore, it enhances surgical workflows, greatly reduces radiation to patients, and delivers a solution that can help across multiple settings including the Ambulatory Surgery Center as well as for Deformity Surgeons in hospitals.

"We are very excited to bring PathKeeper to the Vizient Innovative Technology Exchange," said Erez Lampert, CEO of PathKeeper. "Our mission is to revolutionize the spine surgical landscape by integrating advanced technologies that prioritize patient safety and surgical precision. Our advancement significantly enhances surgical workflows and reduces radiation exposure, benefiting both patients and medical professionals. We are excited to bring our innovative solution to market with Vizient, where it can make a real difference in diverse surgical settings, democratizing technology for spine surgeons and patients everywhere."

"The selection process for medical device and supply companies that exhibit at the Exchange is a rigorous one," said Kelly Flaharty, senior director of contract services, Vizient. "Companies showcase their products and services hoping to be awarded an Innovative Technology contract  a signal to healthcare providers of their solution's unique qualities."

The annual Innovative Technology Exchange is part of Vizient's Innovative Technology Program that includes product review of supplier-submitted technologies by provider-led councils. Since 2003, Vizient has reviewed over 1,600 product submissions as part of its Innovative Technology Program.

About PathKeeper Surgical

PathKeeper Surgical is an Israeli-based, medical technology company that has established a solution to combat the high failure rates seen in spinal surgeries. PathKeeper was founded in 2018 by Erez Lampert, a top 3D medical imaging expert with more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare and aerospace industries, and a proven track record in the field of 3D imaging. Erez previously served as the R&D leader for the Itero Element Intraoral Scanner for Align Technology (Invisalign), the leading 3D dental scanner in the world today. Professor Josh Schroeder, MD, the Director of Spinal Deformities at Hadassah Medical Center and a HSS fellow, has been onboard since the inception of the company as a clinical advisor. Erez and Professor Schroeder's combined knowledge enabled the company to develop an innovative navigation system that outperforms existing solutions.

Learn more at: www.path-keeper.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2420850/PathKeeper.jpg

Media contact:

Ryan LeBlanc, Chief Commercial Officer

[email protected]

SOURCE PathKeeper
PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF OFFER DOCUMENT

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION (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.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On 24 April, 2024, K1 made an announcement pursuant to Rule 2.7 of the Irish Takeover Rules (the "Rule 2.7 Announcement") of a firm intention by Meridian Bidco LLC ("Bidco"), a newly formed Affiliate of K1, as general partner of K5 Capital Advisors, L.P., as general partner of K5 Private Investors, L.P., to make an offer to acquire the entire issued and to be issued share capital of MariaDB (the Offer).

Capitalised terms used but not defined in this announcement have the same meaning given to them in the Offer Document.

Bidco and K1 are pleased to announce that the Offer Document (the "Offer Document") which contains, amongst other things, the full terms and conditions of the Offer and the procedures for its acceptance, together with the related Letter of Transmittal, has today been published and posted to the shareholders of MariaDB (the "MariaDB Shareholders") (other than those located in a Restricted Jurisdiction). For information purposes only, the Offer Document is being made available to persons with information rights.

The Offer will remain open for acceptance until 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on 10 July 2024 (or such later time(s) and/or date(s) to which the Offer may be extended) (the "Expiration Time").

Actions to be taken to accept the Offer

The procedure for acceptance of the Offer is set out in Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document. If you wish to tender all or (in the case of a tender for the Cash Offer only) a portion of your MariaDB Shares to Bidco in the Offer, you must do the following:

If you hold your MariaDB Shares directly as the holder of record, complete and sign the Letter of Transmittal (either manually or electronically) (or, in the case of a book-entry transfer, deliver an Agent's Message in lieu of the Letter of Transmittal) that accompanies the Offer Document (which constitutes the form of acceptance for the Offer for the purposes of the Irish Takeover Rules) in accordance with the instructions set forth therein and mail or electronically deliver the Letter of Transmittal with any required signature guarantees and all other required documents to Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (the " Exchange Agent "). Letters of Transmittal from certificated MariaDB Shareholders should be accompanied by share certificates in respect of the MariaDB Shares tendered. These materials must be delivered to the Exchange Agent prior to the Expiration Time. See Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document for further details on the procedures for book-entry transfer.





"). Letters of Transmittal from certificated MariaDB Shareholders should be accompanied by share certificates in respect of the MariaDB Shares tendered. These materials must be delivered to the Exchange Agent prior to the Expiration Time. 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document for further details on the procedures for book-entry transfer. If you hold your MariaDB Shares through a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee, request your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee to tender your MariaDB Shares through DTC's Automated Tender Offer Program prior to the Expiration Time.

Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that wish to receive the Unlisted Unit Alternative will also be required to provide a completed Response Letter to the Investor Questionnaire as further described in Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document. Bidco will review all Response Letters upon receipt, and this review process will take time. Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that wish to receive the Unlisted Unit Alternative are strongly encouraged to return their Letter of Transmittal (or, in the case of a book-entry transfer, an Agent's Message in lieu of a Letter of Transmittal) electing for the Unlisted Unit Alternative as soon as possible.

Upon completion of the Response Letter and a determination by Bidco, in its sole discretion, that such MariaDB Shareholder may be offered and sold Topco Rollover Units pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act and an exemption from the registration requirements of applicable US state securities laws, such Eligible MariaDB Shareholder will receive a confidential offering memorandum (the "Offering Memorandum"). In addition, Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that wish to receive the Unlisted Unit Alternative will be required, following completion of the Response Letter and subsequent receipt of the Offering Memorandum, to deliver a signature page to the Topco LLCA to complete their election for the Unlisted Unit Alternative as further described in Part 3 of Appendix 1 of the Offer Document. Failure to complete these additional requirements will result in any Eligible MariaDB Shareholders that tender their MariaDB Shares for the Unlisted Unit Alternative being unable to receive the Topco Rollover Units.

Additional Irrevocable Undertakings

K1, K5 and Bidco have received further irrevocable undertakings each dated 24 May 2024 to accept the Offer, or (where Bidco and/or the K1 Group elects to switch to a scheme of arrangement with respect to MariaDB plc under the Companies Act 2014) the scheme of arrangement under the Companies Act 2014, from Sophia Arno and Alexander Arno in respect of, in aggregate, 114,082 MariaDB Shares, representing in aggregate approximately 0.16% of the existing issued share capital of MariaDB as at 16 May 2024 (being the latest practicable date for the purposes of the Offer Document). These irrevocable undertakings have been entered into on substantially similar terms as the irrevocable undertakings previously obtained by K1, K5 and Bidco as further detailed in the 2.7 Announcement.

Accordingly, K1, K5, Topco and Bidco have received irrevocable undertakings to accept the Offer, or where Bidco and/or the K1 Group elects to switch to a scheme of arrangement with respect to MariaDB under the Companies Act 2014, vote in favour of the scheme of arrangement under the Companies Act 2014, in respect of, in aggregate, 47,402,907 MariaDB Shares, representing in aggregate approximately 68.67% of the existing issued share capital of MariaDB as of 16 May 2024 (being the latest practicable date for the purposes of the Offer Document). These undertakings continue to be binding in the event of a competing offer for MariaDB.

Further details of irrevocable undertakings and the parties thereto are set out in the "Special Factors" section of the Offer Document.

Expected timetable

Further details of the expected timetable and details of how to accept the Offer are set out in the Offer Document.

The Offer Document and the Letter of Transmittal will be made available free of charge, subject to certain restrictions relating to persons resident in Restricted Jurisdictions, on K1's website (https://k1.com/meridian-offer-update/).

Enquiries

Lazard (Financial Advisor to K1 and Bidco) Adrian Duchini, Keiran Wilson, Charles White Tel: +44 20 7187 2000



Haven Tower Group (Public Relations Advisor to K1) Donald Cutler, Brandon Blackwell Tel: +1 424 317 4850

Important Notices

The K1 Responsible Persons (being the investment committee of K1), the Bidco Officers and the Topco Officers accept responsibility for the information contained in this Announcement. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the K1 Responsible Persons, the Bidco Officers, the Topco Officers, (who have taken all reasonable care to ensure that such is the case) the information contained in this Announcement for which they have accepted responsibility is in accordance with the facts and does not omit anything likely to affect the import of such information.

Lazard Freres & Co. LLC, together with its affiliate Lazard & Co., Limited (which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority) ("Lazard"), is acting exclusively as financial adviser to K1 and Bidco and no one else in connection with the Offer and will not be responsible to anyone other than K1 and Bidco for providing the protections afforded to clients of Lazard nor for providing advice in relation to the Offer or any other matters referred to in this Announcement. Neither Lazard nor any of its affiliates owes or accepts any duty, liability or responsibility whatsoever (whether direct or indirect, whether in contract, in tort, under statute or otherwise) to any person who is not a client of Lazard in connection with this Announcement, any statement contained herein or otherwise.

Disclosure requirements of the Irish Takeover Rules

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 MariaDB, all 'dealings' in any 'relevant securities' of MariaDB 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 (U.S. Eastern 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 MariaDB, they will be deemed to be a single person for the purpose of Rule 8.3 of the Irish Takeover Rules.

Dealing Disclosures must also be made by any offeror and by any persons acting in concert with them in accordance with Rule 8.2 of the Irish Takeover Rules.

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.

Details of the offeree company in respect of whose relevant securities Dealing Disclosures must be made can be found in the Disclosure Table on the Irish Takeover Panel's website at www.irishtakeoverpanel.ie, including details of the number of relevant securities in issue, when the offer period commenced and when any offeror was first identified. 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.

Further Information

This Announcement is for information purposes only and is not intended to, and does not, constitute an offer to sell or invitation to purchase any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction pursuant to the Offer or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. In particular, this Announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. No offer of securities shall be made in the United States absent registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements. The release, publication or distribution of this Announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law and therefore persons in such jurisdictions into which this Announcement is released, published or distributed should inform themselves about and observe such restrictions.

This Announcement has been prepared for the purpose of complying with the laws of Ireland and the Irish Takeover Rules and the information disclosed may not be the same as that which would have been disclosed if this Announcement had been prepared in accordance with the laws of jurisdictions outside of Ireland.

Overseas Shareholders

The laws of certain jurisdictions may affect the availability of the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) to persons who are not resident in Ireland. Persons who are not resident in Ireland, or who are subject to laws of any jurisdiction other than Ireland, should inform themselves about, and observe, any applicable legal or regulatory requirements. Any failure to comply with any applicable legal or regulatory requirements may constitute a violation of the laws and/or regulations of any such jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, the companies and persons involved in the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) disclaim any responsibility and liability for the violation of such restrictions by any person.

Unless otherwise determined by Bidco or K1 or required by the Irish Takeover Rules, and permitted by applicable law and regulation, the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) will not be made available, directly or indirectly, in any Restricted Jurisdiction, and the Offer will not be capable of acceptance from within a Restricted Jurisdiction where to do so would violate the laws in that jurisdiction. The release, publication or distribution of this Announcement in or into certain jurisdictions may be restricted by the laws of those jurisdictions. Accordingly, copies of this Announcement and all other documents relating to the Offer (including the Unlisted Unit Alternative) are not being, and must not be, released, published, mailed or otherwise forwarded, distributed or sent in, into or from any Restricted Jurisdiction. Persons receiving such documents (including, without limitation, nominees, trustees and custodians) should observe these restrictions. Failure to do so may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, K1, the K1 Group and Bidco disclaims any responsibility or liability for the violations of any such restrictions by any person. MariaDB Shareholders who are in any doubt regarding such matters should consult an appropriate independent professional adviser in the relevant jurisdiction without delay. Further details in relation to overseas shareholders are contained in the Offer Document.

If you are a resident of the United States, please read the following:

This Announcement is not intended to, and does not, constitute or form part of any offer (including the Offer), invitation or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, tender, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor will there be any acquisition or disposition of the securities referred to in this Announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable Law or regulation.

This Announcement is not a substitute for the Offer Document and the Form of Acceptance or any other document that Bidco may file with the SEC in connection with the Offer, if any. A solicitation and an offer to buy MariaDB Shares will be made pursuant to a Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO that Bidco intends to file with the SEC. At the time the tender offer is commenced, MariaDB will file a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the tender offer. MARIADB SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ ANY SUCH DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE OFFER. SUCH DOCUMENTS SHOULD BE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE ANY DECISION IS MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE OFFER. Investors and MariaDB Shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of these materials (if and when available) and other documents containing important information about MariaDB and the Offer once such documents are filed with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.

The Offer, if made, will be made in the United States pursuant to the Exchange Act and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of the Irish Takeover Rules. Accordingly, the Offer will be subject to disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments that may be different from those typically applicable under U.S. domestic tender offer procedures and law. In addition, the Offer Document and any other documents relating to the Offer have been or will be prepared in accordance with the Irish Takeover Rules and Irish disclosure requirements, format and style, all of which may differ from those in the United States.

MariaDB is incorporated under the laws of Ireland. Some of the directors on the MariaDB Board at the date of this Announcement are resident in a country other than the United States. As a result, it may not be possible for United States holders of MariaDB Shares to effect service of process within the United States upon MariaDB or some of the directors of MariaDB or to enforce against any of them judgements of the United States predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States. It may not be possible to sue MariaDB or its officers or director(s) in a non-US court for violations of US securities laws. In addition, US holders of MariaDB Shares should be aware that, if K1 and Bidco elect to proceed pursuant to a scheme of arrangement (as described herein), the federal securities laws of the United States may not be applicable.

Publication on website

A copy of this announcement and the documents required to be published pursuant to Rule 26 of the Irish Takeover Rules will be made available, subject to certain restrictions relating to persons resident in Restricted Jurisdictions, will be made available on K1's website (https://k1.com/meridian-offer-update/). Neither the content of any such website nor the content of any other website accessible from hyperlinks on such website is incorporated into, or forms part of, this Announcement.

SOURCE K1 Investment Management
College Hosting Grand Opening Celebration for Public on Thursday, June 6th, 2024

MINNEAPOLIS, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Minnesota Compass, 44.2% of Minnesota's American Indian population resides in the Twin Cities. Yet until now, there was no tribal college in the Twin Cities that provided culturally based higher education to Native students. Red Lake Nation College (RLNC) is celebrating its grand opening of its Minneapolis site Thursday, June 6th, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with music and social activities from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 900 S. 3rd St. in Minneapolis, Minn. The event is free and open to the public.

The new Red Lake Nation College site at 900 S. 3rd Street in Minneapolis, Minn.

With a new campus located in downtown Minneapolis, RLNC aims to fill a crucial void in higher education by offering an affordable, accredited higher education grounded in Ojibwe language and culture to Native American students in the heart of Minneapolis.

RLNC, an accredited two-year tribal college located on the shores of Red Lake in Northern Minnesota, has delivered courses through distance education to downtown Minneapolis students since 2021. The new site, completed in the spring of 2024, will provide state-of-the-art facilities and education services to support student success.

As a TCU in the Twin Cities, RLNC serves a unique market niche in higher education, focusing on Native communities while welcoming students of all tribal backgrounds through its open-enrollment policy. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and ensures rigorous academic standards and quality education delivery.

"Our grand opening represents a significant step towards providing accessible education to Native American communities living in urban areas," said Dan King, President of Red Lake Nation College. "By establishing our Minneapolis location, we are pioneering a new era of tribal college presence in major metropolitan centers, offering globally relevant courses steeped in Ojibwe culture to prepare students for success in the modern job market."

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the courses of study offered, career opportunities for graduates, and hear from President Dan King, a prominent business leader and a Hereditary Chief of the Red Lake Nation, about his vision for the college and the services it offers.

For more information about Red Lake Nation College or to apply, visit https://rlnc.edu.

About Red Lake Nation College Red Lake Nation College (RLNC) was established in 2001 to serve the Red Lake Nation in Red Lake, Minnesota. In June 2024, RLNC is opening its second site, the first-ever urban tribal college site, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Red Lake Nation College offers a range of certificate and academic degree programs designed to empower students and strengthen the Red Lake Nation community in a higher education environment that honors students' Indigenous identities.

SOURCE American Indian College Fund
LOS ANGELES, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Resecurity, a leading global cybersecurity company, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with Beyon Cyber, a trailblazing digital security provider in the region. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to delivering superior cybersecurity solutions and bolstering digital protections for clients across various sectors.

Partnership

Beyon Cyber, recognized by Deloitte as the Fastest Growing Cyber Security Company in the Middle East & Cyprus for the second successive year and renowned for its innovative approach to cybersecurity, is proud to join forces with Resecurity. This partnership aims to enhance Beyon Cyber's capabilities, ensuring that clients benefit from the most advanced and robust security measures available in the market.

"Beyon Cyber is proud to join forces with Resecurity. This partnership strengthens our commitment to providing enhanced cybersecurity solutions and superior digital protections to our clients," said Shaikh Khalid Al Khalifa, CEO at Beyon Cyber. "Together, we are poised to set new benchmarks in the cybersecurity landscape, ensuring our clients are well-protected against the ever-evolving cyber threats."

Resecurity brings a wealth of expertise and cutting-edge technology to the partnership, offering solutions that address the growing complexities of cybersecurity. The collaboration will focus on delivering comprehensive security services, including threat intelligence, incident response, and cybersecurity awareness training, to empower organizations to defend against sophisticated cyber attacks.

Gene Yoo, CEO of Resecurity, expressed his excitement about the partnership: "We are thrilled to partner with Beyon Cyber, a company that shares our vision of a secure digital future. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in enhancing the cybersecurity posture of our clients. By combining our strengths, we aim to provide unparalleled protection and support to organizations, helping them navigate the digital landscape with confidence."

The synergy between Resecurity's advanced cybersecurity solutions and Beyon Cyber's extensive market presence is set to create a formidable force in the digital security arena. This partnership will enable both companies to deliver tailored, state-of-the-art security solutions designed to meet the specific needs of various industries.

As part of their joint efforts, Resecurity and Beyon Cyber will engage in threat intelligence sharing, collaborative incident response initiatives, and comprehensive cybersecurity awareness programs. These initiatives are designed to equip organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to proactively defend against cyber threats and maintain a secure digital environment.

The strategic partnership between Resecurity and Beyon Cyber marks a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving superior cybersecurity standards. With a shared vision of advancing digital security and resilience, this collaboration is poised to make a lasting impact on the cybersecurity landscape, setting new standards for excellence and innovation.

For more information about Resecurity and Beyon Cyber, and to learn more about their collaborative cybersecurity initiatives, please visit https://www.resecurity.com and https://beyoncyber.com.

About Beyon Cyber:

Beyon Cyber is a leading provider of advanced end-to-end cybersecurity solutions, offering managed services and advisory to organizations across Bahrain and beyond. Leveraging an exclusive network of global partnerships, Beyon Cyber delivers simple, cost-effective, world-class security services to its customers. Established in early 2008, Beyon Cyber has over 14 years of experience in protecting Bahrain's most critical communications infrastructure. With a team of SANS certified cyber defenders, the company is adept at defending against sophisticated nation-state threat actors. Since 2022, Beyon Cyber has expanded its capabilities to offer cybersecurity protection to businesses across the Kingdom and the region. To learn more about Beyon Cyber, visit https://beyoncyber.com.

About Resecurity:

Resecurity is a cybersecurity company that delivers a unified endpoint protection, risk management, and cyber threat intelligence platform. Known for providing best-of-breed data-driven intelligence solutions, Resecurity's services and platforms focus on early-warning identification of data breaches and comprehensive protection against cybersecurity risks. Founded in 2016, it has been globally recognized as one of the world's most innovative cybersecurity companies with the sole mission of enabling organizations to combat cyber threats regardless of how sophisticated they are. Most recently, Resecurity was named one of the Top 10 fastest-growing private cybersecurity companies in Los Angeles, California, by Inc. Magazine. An Official Partner of the Cybercrime Atlas by the World Economic Forum (WEF), Member of InfraGard National Members Alliance (INMA), AFCEA, NDIA, SIA, FS-ISAC and the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia (AmChamKSA), Singapore (AmChamSG), Korea (AmChamKorea), Mexico (AmChamMX), Thailand (AmChamThailand), and UAE (AmChamDubai). To learn more about Resecurity, visit https://resecurity.com.

SOURCE Resecurity Inc.
49 scheduled presentations will explore several types of cancer, as well as the next frontier of health equity

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Clinicians and scientists from Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health will lead sessions and present their latest discoveries from their innovative cancer research program at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, to be held in Chicago (and online) from May 30-June 4. A total of 49 accepted abstracts and presentations will cover cutting-edge topics, including two oral sessions highlighting the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) audit of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols for radical cystectomy, as well as social vulnerability and clinical trial enrollment's role in the next frontier of health equity.

Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health

"Our world-renowned integrated network of researchers and clinicians at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health continues to innovate and investigate strategies that will achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients. This is reflected in the dynamic lineup of presentations featured at the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting, underscoring our team's commitment and dedication," said Steven K. Libutti, MD, FACS, Director, Rutgers Cancer Institute and Senior Vice President, Oncology Services, RWJBarnabas Health. "As New Jersey's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and the leading cancer program in the state, we are at the forefront of advancing cancer research and care to conquer a disease that impacts so many. We look forward to sharing our array of recent advancements and findings at this year's meeting."

The research accepted for presentation at ASCO includes one late-breaking abstract, oral and poster sessions as well as publication-only abstracts highlighting data in numerous types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, lymphoma, and lung.

Highlights of the accepted abstracts include the following:

Findings from a study that assesses how social vulnerability impacts clinical trial enrollment and explores the interaction between race and social vulnerability among patients with one of the top five cancers - breast, prostate, lung, colorectal and pancreas. Findings confirm that neighborhood social vulnerability is a barrier to trial enrollment, even more so among Black patients.

Utilization of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for radical cystectomy has been associated with improved postoperative recovery and shorter hospital stays. This study was designed to assess the impact of increasing compliance to ERAS components on postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent radical cystectomy. Researchers reviewed 3,708 patients from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent radical cystectomy from 2019  2021.

Updates from CTEP 10492, a Phase 1/ 1b study investigating the AKT inhibitor ipatasertib with chemoradiation to treat locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The primary objective of this study is to determine the maximum tolerated dose and recommended Phase 2 dose of ipatasertib in combination with definitive chemoradiation therapy (CRT) in locally advanced HNSCC based on dose-limiting toxicities. This phase 1/ 1b study will be the first to establish safety and preliminary efficacy of ipatasertib combined with standard of care definitive CRT for HNSCC.

study investigating the AKT inhibitor ipatasertib with chemoradiation to treat locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The primary objective of this study is to determine the maximum tolerated dose and recommended Phase 2 dose of ipatasertib in combination with definitive chemoradiation therapy (CRT) in locally advanced HNSCC based on dose-limiting toxicities. This phase 1/ study will be the first to establish safety and preliminary efficacy of ipatasertib combined with standard of care definitive CRT for HNSCC. Data from a Phase 3 clinical trial evaluates the efficacy and safety of odronextamab plus CHOP vs rituximab plus CHOP in previously untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients. OLYMPIA -3 is a Phase 3, randomized, open-label, multicenter study of O-CHOP vs. R-CHOP in patients with previously untreated DLBCL and intermediate- or high-risk features. The primary endpoints of the study are the incidence of dose-limiting toxicities, and incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events as well as progression-free survival by independent central review.

-3 is a Phase 3, randomized, open-label, multicenter study of O-CHOP vs. R-CHOP in patients with previously untreated DLBCL and intermediate- or high-risk features. The primary endpoints of the study are the incidence of dose-limiting toxicities, and incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events as well as progression-free survival by independent central review. CIPHER (NCT05333874), a single institution pilot study, evaluated whether trend of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing during neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) can serve as an early indicator of treatment response and inform disease management in the adjuvant setting. The study included 35 patients with stage II-III triple negative and HER2+ breast cancer and longitudinal ctDNA testing performed during standard of care NAT.

The full list of presentations at this year's 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting can be found here.

About Rutgers Cancer Institute

As New Jersey's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute, together with RWJBarnabas Health, offers the most advanced cancer treatment options, including bone marrow transplantation, proton therapy, CAR T-cell therapy and complex surgical procedures. Along with clinical trials and novel therapeutics such as precision medicine and immunotherapy  many of which are not widely available  patients have access to these cutting-edge therapies at Rutgers Cancer Institute in New Brunswick, Rutgers Cancer Institute at University Hospital in Newark, as well as through RWJBarnabas Health facilities.

For journalists  contact:

Krista Didzbalis

Corporate Communications Specialist, Strategic Communications, RWJBarnabas Health

732.507.8307

[email protected]

For patient appointments/inquiries  contact:

844-CANCERNJ (844-226-2376)

SOURCE Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health
 Read the full article on Motorious

This awesome off-roaders sells on Monday!

Cascio Motors has a unique offering for collectors and off-road enthusiasts: a 1985 AM General M1045 HMMWV Open Top, available at no reserve on Bring A Trailer. Originally designed for the US military, this High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) underwent extensive refurbishment between 2014 and 2016. The restoration included refinishing the body in tan and rebuilding the 6.2-liter diesel V8 engine, alongside the replacement of numerous exterior, interior, suspension, and brake components.

The HMMWV, commonly known as the Humvee, is equipped with a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials. This particular model features a tan soft top and soft doors, providing an authentic military look. Additional details include 16.5 12-bolt beadlock wheels, 3712.50 military-specification tires, inboard disc brakes, LED headlights, an HID light bar, a heater, and four cloth-trimmed bucket seats.

The M1045 variant, produced primarily as an armament carrier, is finished in tan Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) and includes several new components installed during the refurbishment. These components include the windshield glass, rear bumper, soft top, soft doors, reflectors, airlift hooks, fender liners, side mirrors, and wipers. The exterior also features a pintle hitch, an Ibis Tek HID light bar, and LED headlights.

This Humvee rides on black-finished 16.5 12-bolt beadlock steel wheels with Goodyear Wrangler MT military-specification tires. The vehicles independent suspension system and inboard-mounted disc brakes ensure robust performance both on and off-road. The refurbishment project included the replacement of wheels, tires, emergency brake, power steering pump, idler arm, CV axle assemblies, shocks, brake booster, master cylinder, rotors, calipers, and lines.

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Inside, the Humvees interior has been repainted and features four green cloth-trimmed bucket seats. Other interior details include a heater, green floor liners, three-point seatbelts, and auxiliary switches. The instrumentation panel includes a 60-mph speedometer and gauges for oil pressure, fuel level, coolant temperature, and voltage. The five-digit odometer shows 3,000 miles, reflecting the distance traveled since the refurbishment. The total mileage is unknown. Additionally, the steering wheel, steering column, horn button, turn indicator, instrument bezel, and gauges have all been replaced.

The naturally aspirated 6.2-liter diesel V8, originally rated at 150 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, was rebuilt in 2014. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a 3L80 three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials. The driveshafts and differentials, fitted with 2.56:1 gearing, were also replaced during the refurbishment.

This meticulously restored 1985 AM General M1045 HMMWV, identified by serial number 529316 and listed with a clean California title, represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of military history. Offered by Cascio Motors in Arizona, this Humvee is ready for new adventures, whether on rugged terrain or as a standout piece in a collection. Don't miss the chance to bid on this exceptional vehicle at no reserve on Bring A Trailer.

Cascio Motors is a top-seller on Bring A Trailer. Visit their site to learn more about the consignment process and to see other great cars like this one.

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Event Returns to Convene Regional Environmental Leaders

SAN FRANCISCO, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Every two years, the Estuary Partnership brings a focus to the management and ecological health of the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary. The State of the San Francisco Estuary Conference showcases the latest information about the region's work to sustain and improve the estuary's habitats, living resources, water quality, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship.

WHEN: Tuesday, May 28 (9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m), Wednesday, May 29 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

San Francisco Estuary Partnership logo

WHERE: Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Secretary of Environmental Protection Yana Garcia of the California Environmental Protection Agency.

PROGRAM: https://www.sfestuary.org/soe2024program/

The State of the Estuary Conference serves as a venue for sharing timely and important information for people who are impacted by and working to improve, conserve, and monitor the health of the estuary. The event highlights critical topics and offers a platform for inclusive and equitable representation of regional scientists, community organizers, students, legislators, resource managers, planners, and many more working in the field. The event aims to draw deeper connections between climate adaptation, environmental justice, and region-wide watershed stewardship.

The conference features a keynote address from Secretary of Environmental Protection Yana Garcia of the California Environmental Protection Agency.

A "Youth Vision for the Estuary" plenary session on Tuesday will shine the spotlight on youth community leaders, including poetry readings and a panel discussion. Afternoon breakout sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday will meet the moment of climate change by catalyzing regional conversations on priority topics such as:

Tackling the next phase of wetland restoration,

Developing the strategies to move massive amounts of sediment,

Addressing contaminants of emerging concern,

Leveling up funding for innovative adaptation projects,

Creating community climate resilience, and much more.

The conference will be held at the Scottish Rite Center in Oakland. Built in 1927 and accentuated by Italian Renaissance design throughout, the venue overlooks Lake Merritt.

SOURCE Metropolitan Transportation Commission
FREMONT, Neb., May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Summit Medical Staffing, a leading healthcare staffing agency, is proud to announce its recognition on the Vet100 list for 2023, a prestigious ranking that celebrates the top veteran-led businesses in the United States. This accolade underscores Summit Medical Staffing's commitment to excellence, leadership, and the significant contributions of veterans within the business community.

The Vet100 list, compiled annually by the Veteran Entrepreneur Training (VET) program in collaboration with Inc. magazine, recognizes and honors businesses across various industries that are led by veterans. Summit Medical Staffing's inclusion in this esteemed list highlights the company's success, growth, and the impact of veteran leadership on its continued achievements.

"We are thrilled and humbled to be recognized among the Veteran 100 Fastest-Growing Veteran-Owned or Operated Businesses in America," said Bill Watts, Veteran, CEO and Founder of Summit Medical Staffing. "This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our team. We remain committed to our mission of delivering exceptional staffing solutions while honoring the values instilled in us during our military service."

Founded on principles of discipline, teamwork, and service, Summit Medical Staffing benefits from the unique perspectives and skills brought to the organization by its veteran leaders. The company's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace has contributed not only to its success in the healthcare staffing industry but also to broader recognition within the Vet100 list.

Summit Medical Staffing specializes in connecting healthcare professionals with temporary travel positions, ensuring that healthcare facilities have access to the best talent. The company's commitment to service, coupled with the leadership of veterans, has set it apart as a trusted partner in the healthcare staffing sector.

As Summit Medical Staffing celebrates its inclusion in the Vet100 list, the company remains dedicated to maintaining the high standards of service that have led to this recognition. The team looks forward to continued growth, creating meaningful employment opportunities, and making a positive impact on the healthcare industry.

Summit Medical Staffing

Summit Medical Staffing was founded in 2014 and is based in Fremont, Nebraska. Summit is a Veteran and Employee-owned company that provides staffing resources to Healthcare providers, hospitals and clinics, nationwide. Located in the Midwest, Summit strives to provide a dedicated and attentive approach to medical staffing services for the employer and the employee. Our philosophy to connect, educate, consult and advocate resonates within the entire Summit team. Our travelers make us special; our focus and commitment to them makes us unique. For more information, visit www.summitmedstaff.com.

SOURCE Summit Medical Staffing
MUNICH, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From May 22nd to 23rd, 2024, Tan Xuguang, along with a delegation, convened in Munich, Germany, to conduct a visit and engagement with prominent entities including Germany's TUV Sud Group, FEV GmbH, and MAN Truck & Bus Group, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. The primary objective of this initiative was to tackle the challenges posed by the advent of the new technological landscape. Central to this endeavor was the establishment of a succession of strategic cooperation agreements aimed at harmonizing global cooperation frameworks.

On May 23rd, 2024, Tan Xuguang and his delegation paid a visit to the MAN Truck & Bus Group, operating under the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Traton Group. During this visit, they engaged in comprehensive discussions with Christian Levin, who serves as both the Chairman and CEO of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Traton Group and as the President and CEO of the Scania Commercial Vehicles Group. The focal point of these discussions revolved around the anticipated competitive dynamics and technological trajectories within the global commercial vehicle industry.

Christian Levin articulated, "Throughout the past year, our management teams have participated in numerous efficient and pragmatic visits and exchanges, resulting in the elevation of our cooperative relationship to unprecedented heights. We hold deep admiration for the accomplishments of the Sinotruk Group within the global heavy-duty truck market in recent years. The alignment of our industrial chain layouts presents mutually beneficial synergies, paving the way for extensive strategic cooperation opportunities. We eagerly anticipate the deepening of exchanges and collaboration within the realm of new technologies, with the overarching goal of achieving development that is mutually advantageous."

Tan Xuguang asserted, "The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Traton Group has consistently served as a benchmark from which we derive invaluable insights. The longstanding successful collaboration between the Sinotruk Group and the MAN Truck & Bus Group in Germany spanning 15 years underscores our status as close strategic partners. Irrespective of past, present, or future, our alliance remains steadfast. We are resolutely committed to broadening cooperation across the comprehensive spectrum of 'traditional energy + new energy' and dual industrial chains, thereby facilitating win-win outcomes in the global arena of cooperation and competition."

Tan Xuguang and his delegation conducted a tour of the intelligent heavy truck factory operated by the MAN Truck & Bus Group. Throughout the duration of the visit and ensuing discussions, Alexander Vlaskamp, Chairman and CEO of the MAN Truck & Bus Group, provided continuous accompaniment, offering insights and facilitating exchanges.

On May 22nd, 2024, Tan Xuguang presided over a strategic technology seminar held in Munich, facilitating collaboration between Weichai and the German engine technology consulting company, FEV. The seminar brought together experts from both FEV and Weichai headquarters, fostering extensive exchanges and discussions pertaining to product enhancements, competitive benchmarking, and future strategic planning.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2421303/image_5030058_9062673.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2421304/image_5030058_9062893.jpg
PFLUGERVILLE, Texas, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- U-Haul Co. of North Austin is making 13 facilities available to provide 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box container usage to families impacted by Wednesday night's powerful tornado that struck Temple and wreaked havoc along Interstate 35.

Many homes in and around Temple were damaged or destroyed. Access to dry and secure self-storage rooms and portable storage containers is essential during the recovery process after natural disasters.

John Jaster, U-Haul Co. of North Austin president, said his teams are dealing with tornado damage as well, but they stand ready to help their fellow Texans.

The 30-day free offer applies to new self-storage and U-Box rentals and is based on availability. The free U-Box offer pertains to on-site storage at U-Haul facilities and does not include residential delivery and pick-up of containers.

People seeking more information or needing to arrange storage services should contact their nearest participating facility:

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Midway

3914 S. General Bruce Drive

Temple, TX 76502

(254) 727-7216

U-Haul Moving & Storage of South Temple

215 SW H.K. Dodgen Loop

Temple, TX 76502

(254) 770-3001

U-Haul Moving & Storage at Highway 620

11320 Hwy. 620 N.

Austin, TX 78726

(512) 258-1056

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Cedar Park

700 S. Bell Blvd.

Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 335-9261

U-Haul Moving & Storage of West Copperas Cove

1091 W. Hwy. 190

Copperas Cove, TX 76522

(254) 542-2277

U-Haul Storage of Copperas Cove

2711 E. Business 190

Copperas Cove, TX 76522

(254) 542-8058

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Centex

3501 E. Central Texas Expwy.

Killeen, TX 76543

(254) 699-8334

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Killeen

102 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd.

Killeen, TX 76541

(254) 526-9626

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Twin Creek

1507 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Killeen, TX 76543

(254) 532-3001

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Pflugerville

1617 Three Points Road

Pflugerville, TX 78660

(512) 251-7491

U-Haul Moving & Storage at Steeds Crossing

20607 FM Road 685

Pflugerville, TX 78660

(512) 251-2090

U-Haul Moving & Storage of Round Rock

1535 Round Rock Ave.

Round Rock, TX 78681

(512) 218-9099

U-Haul Storage of Chisholm Valley

1301 Chisholm Valley Drive

Round Rock, TX 78681

(512) 782-8979

In addition to its 30 days free self-storage disaster relief program, U-Haul is proud to be at the forefront of aiding communities in times of need as an official American Red Cross Disaster Responder.

About U-HAUL

Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the No. 1 choice of do-it-yourself movers with more than 23,000 rental locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The enhanced U-Haul app makes it easier for customers to use U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 to access trucks anytime through the self-dispatch and self-return options on their smartphones through our patented Live Verify technology. Our customers' patronage has enabled the U-Haul fleet to grow to 192,200 trucks, 138,500 trailers and 44,500 towing devices. U-Haul is the third largest self-storage operator in North America with 967,000 rentable units and 83.3 million square feet of self-storage space at owned and managed facilities. U-Haul is the top retailer of propane in the U.S. and the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. Get the U-Haul app from the App Store or Google Play .

Contact:

Jeff Lockridge

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: 602-760-4941

Website: uhaul.com

SOURCE U-Haul
BALI, Indonesia, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo officially opened the 10th World Water Forum on Monday (5/20/2024) at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC). In his speech, Jokowi introduced the Balinese Subak irrigation system, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2012.

At the opening ceremony, Loic Fauchon, the President of the World Water Council, expressed gratitude to Indonesia for hosting the World Water Forum in Bali, highlighting Indonesia as the World Capital of Water.

President Joko Widodo (front, left) posed for a photo with President of World Water Council Loic Fauchon (front, right) and several committee of the World Water Council for the 10th World Water Forum 2024 in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Monday, (20/5/2024)

He also emphasized the urgent need for sustainable water management, technological innovation, and global cooperation. Fauchon called for action to ensure water security, promote water rights, and involve younger generations in the fight for water preservation and peace.

Following the opening ceremony, President Jokowi chaired the High-Level Meeting where he stated that all countries should use this as a momentum to reinvigorate real action and collective commitment to address water challenges by sharing knowledge, promoting innovative solutions and implementing integrated water resources management.

On the same day, the political sessions began with the Parliamentary Meeting which was officially opened by the Chairperson of the Indonesian House of Representatives Puan Maharani. She stated that the Parliament will support the agenda to achieve water security through diplomacy.

On this occasion, the Bali Youth Plan has been hosting a series of side events, including the World Youth Parliament for Water Sessions and World Water Council Youth Delegates Session.

The Forum's Fair and Expo also launched with a total of 160 participants from 17 countries.

The day concluded with Leaders Visit to Ngurah Rai Forest Park, where President Jokowi highlighted the collective responsibility to conserve and protect the mangrove ecosystem.

Minister of Public Works and Housing Basuki Hadimuljono said, 10 Heads of state including from Indonesia, Timor Leste, Fiji, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Hungary, and Morocco, as well as Deputy Prime Ministers, from Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Slovakia, and three special envoys of the presidents of the Netherlands, France, and the United Arab Emirates are present and participate in the series of events.

SOURCE Secretariat of the 10th World Water Forum
LONDON, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Titans of Tech: Unrivalled era of A.I. led innovation for European Tech - No more excuses.

GP Bullhound is proud to announce the release of its Titans of Tech 2024 report. For the tenth year in a row, GP Bullhound has released its annual Titans of Tech report, highlighting and analysing the growth trends in Europe's tech ecosystem. This comprehensive analysis underscores the resilience and growth of Europe's tech sector, setting the stage for a new era of innovation and investment.

Key takeaways from our report include:

Titans of Tech: GP Bullhound releases its annual report on the European tech ecosystem

The funding frenzy is over, but the new normal is very healthy: Funding levels have normalised, averaging 15Bn per quarter over the last year, which is ~50% higher than 2019.

Funding levels have normalised, averaging 15Bn per quarter over the last year, which is ~50% higher than 2019. The value of the ecosystem is growing despite the failures: 14 new unicorns were created in the last 12 months. Europe and Israel now have 323 unicorns, up from 311 a year ago and 283 the year before. The ecosystem's total valuation has grown to $1 .2Tr, an ~11x increase in billion-dollar companies and a ~14x increase in aggregate valuation since our first report in 2014.

14 new unicorns were created in the last 12 months. and now have 323 unicorns, up from 311 a year ago and 283 the year before. The ecosystem's total valuation has grown to .2Tr, an ~11x increase in billion-dollar companies and a ~14x increase in aggregate valuation since our first report in 2014. Megarounds are fewer but larger and still accessible: Access to capital rounds exceeding $50 million has tightened, but investors remain interested in supporting innovators. The deal count dropped 68% over the last two years due to a focus on profitability and conservative planning. Only 17% of European unicorns raised capital in 2023, as 93% had already raised funds during the 2021-2022 bull market.

Access to capital rounds exceeding has tightened, but investors remain interested in supporting innovators. The deal count dropped 68% over the last two years due to a focus on profitability and conservative planning. Only 17% of European unicorns raised capital in 2023, as 93% had already raised funds during the 2021-2022 bull market. Software innovation continues, shaping the way we live and work: Despite funding challenges, technological developments, especially in artificial intelligence, continue to drive automation and cost savings. European AI companies received over 11Bn in funding in the last year, with 36% of new unicorns being AI/ML businesses.

Despite funding challenges, technological developments, especially in artificial intelligence, continue to drive automation and cost savings. European AI companies received over 11Bn in funding in the last year, with 36% of new unicorns being AI/ML businesses. Category leaders and geographies: This year, the UK and France lead the startup arena with three unicorns each. The UK's unicorns are valued at $3.4Bn , with significant contributions from AI leaders Synthesia and Builder.ai. France's trio reaches a collective valuation of $7Bn , highlighted by innovators like Mistral AI. Germany , Israel , and the Netherlands each added two unicorns, while Sweden and Italy added one unicorn each.

This year, the UK and lead the startup arena with three unicorns each. The UK's unicorns are valued at , with significant contributions from AI leaders Synthesia and Builder.ai. trio reaches a collective valuation of , highlighted by innovators like Mistral AI. , , and each added two unicorns, while and added one unicorn each. Europe's most promising startups: GP Bullhound has analysed more than 100 European startups for scale, velocity, and sentiment, and ranked the top 50 companies with the most potential to become one-billion-dollar companies. The top 10 include Agicap, Brevo, Typeform, Homa, AMBOSS, Akeneo, Form3, Flo Health, Aidoc, and ConnexOne.

Manish Madhvani, Managing Partner at GP Bullhound, said: "After ten years of issuing our Titans of Tech report, we have witnessed the highs and lows of the European tech ecosystem. A year ago, the situation was less encouraging for the fundraising environment, with macro uncertainty and with businesses more focused on layoffs than on growth and innovation.

Today, against the backdrop of negative headlines, we have cemented the building blocks for the next wave of innovation. Funding levels have stabilised, and are amazingly 50% higher than pre bull market levels.



With Europe's maturing base of engineering talent and the world's fascination in its potential productivity gains, artificial intelligence offers a unique opportunity to create global leaders in record time. There is no shortage of funding for the best entrepreneurs and companies, as evidenced by the record $220m seed round for Paris based H announced this week. What was noticeable about the round was the range of the investor syndicate : from strategics such as Amazon, Samsung and UI Path, household names such as Bernard Arnault, Eric Schmidt and Xavier Niel, and leading VC's.Looking ahead, we expect the next few years to represent an era of unprecedented innovation in the European ecosystem. Innovation is flowing, vast amounts of capital are available for the strong and the talent pool is expanding. No more excuses Europe!"

Expert interviews

What does it take to build a billion-dollar company? What are the critical success factors for European tech? How to remain resilient in a challenging market and benefit from economic downturns? This year's report features expert views from leading founders and CEOs, including Synthesia, Quantexa, SEON, Flo Health, Zappi and CoverManager.

Download full report: www.gpbullhound.com/articles/titans-of-tech-2024

Enquiries

For enquiries, please contact: [email protected]

About GP Bullhound

GP Bullhound is a leading technology advisory and investment firm, providing transaction advice and capital to the world's best entrepreneurs and founders. Founded in 1999 in London and Menlo Park, the firm today has 12 offices spanning Europe, the US and Asia. For more information, please visit www.gpbullhound.com .

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2421454/GP_Bullhound.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2421453/GP_Bullhound_Logo.jpg
*Live press conference that includes AZ legislators/sheriffs held at Schieffelin Hall 4:00pm, just prior to the Town Hall*

TOMBSTONE, Ariz., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- We are excited to invite local communities in Cochise County and other Border counties to the Tombstone Town Hall where we discuss why "Borders and Elections Matter." This significant gathering will be held at historic Schieffelin Hall, located at 402 East Fremont Street, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Doors opening at 5:00 PM. Media invited to attend. Check in at the front door.

Tombstone Town Hall will feature separate moderated panels of Arizona's top legislators and Sheriffs with Town Hall audience interaction. Esteemed members of both panels will discuss crucial issues related to ongoing Border Security issues and the elections that shape Border Policy, offering insights and addressing community concerns.

The Sheriff's Panel is moderated by Jaeson Jones, a retired Texas DPS Captain with over 25 years of tactical border experience. Jaeson is nationally recognized as one of the foremost authorities on Cartel Operations and Influence. He has his own show on NEWSMAX and is always sought after to appear on various Border Security panels nationwide.

Sheriff's Panel:

Mark Dannels ( Cochise County Sheriff)

( Sheriff) Mark Lamb ( Pinal County Sheriff)

( Sheriff) Tim Sumner ( Greenlee County Sheriff)

The Legislative Panel is moderated by Victor Avila. Victor is a former special agent with ICE, a best-selling author and an expert in Narco-Human trafficking operations. Victor Avila's story is one of selfless service and personal sacrifice. Nearly killed and severely wounded by an attempted Cartel-led assassination attempt, Victor Avila's perspective and professionalism are unmatched.

Legislative Panel:

Dave Gowan (LD-19)

(LD-19) Lupe Diaz (LD-19)

(LD-19) Steve Montenegro (LD-29)

(LD-29) Michael Carbone (LD-25)

(LD-25) Janae Shamp (LD-29)

All in-person attendees will receive a $20.00 meal and drink voucher to the Crystal Palace Saloon, redeemable immediately after the Town Hall. The Saloon is walking distance from the Town Hall. Limited tickets available.

To register for the event, please visit this link:

www.voteyourvision.org

This Town Hall is an opportunity for residents to engage directly with law enforcement and legislative leaders to voice their concerns and ideas.

Don't miss this important event! Mark your calendars for May 31st and join us at Schieffelin Hall for an evening of meaningful dialogue and community engagement.

Don't forget. Live Press conference with AZ legislators/sheriffs will be held at Schieffelin Hall 4:00pm prior to the Town Hall.

**Armed Forces Brewing Company recently built a symbolic 48,000 beer can wall at the southern border to bring awareness to the issue of how illegal immigration affects veterans, active-duty military and their families. For more information about their mission to make great American beer and to employ and help veterans, go to https://ownarmedforcesbrewingco.com/beer-wall.

MEDIA: Please contact [email protected] for press credentials prior to the Press Conference and Town Hall. For more information go to www.voteyourvision.org

SOURCE VoteYourVision.org
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On 21-23 May, Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024 assembled over 1000 esteemed representatives from brands, retailers, NGOs, policy, manufacturers, and innovators from both the fashion and adjacent industries to unlock the next level of sustainability. Presented by Global Fashion Agenda (GFA), the non-profit organisation that is accelerating the transition to a net positive fashion industry, the Summit marked its 15-year anniversary at the iconic Copenhagen Concert Hall.

The event's theme, `Unlocking the Next Level', impelled participants to urgently act on the learnings from the forum to support the implementation of solutions to reach both near and long-term goals. Under this premise, the Summit presented content centred around evidence-based impact, with much of the programme dedicated to educational and action-oriented business case studies.

Each session in the programme targeted a next level barrier to progress and integrated a solution unlock to overcome the barrier. The 33 content sessions across the Summit's three stages included: `Future Fibers: Enabling the Circular Model'. `Lead or Be Led', `Fragmented Futures: Fashion's Policy Agenda', `Pathways to Indigenous Partnership', `Reverse Logistics for Circular Fashion Systems', `Towards Binding Agreements on Wages', and many more. View the full programme.

Attendees heard from over 110 speakers including Her Majesty The Queen of Denmark;

Marie-Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability and Institutional Affairs Officer, Kering; Mehdi Benabadji, CEO, Brioni; Ryan Gellert, CEO, Patagonia Works & Patagonia; Adam Karlsson, CFO, H&M Group; Halide Alagoz, Chief Product Officer, Ralph Lauren Corporation; Paul Polman, Business Leader, Campaigner, Co-Author of Net Positive; Kaisa Tikk, Head of Commercial Sustainability, Maersk; Nicolaj Reffstrup, Founder, GANNI, Barbara Penafiel Durruty, Circular Economy Policy Implementation Coordinator, Ministry of Environment of Chile; Fatih Konukoglu, Chairman, Re&Up; Edwin Keh, CEO, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel; Francisco Souza, Senior VP Global Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities Center, Conservation International; Harish Ahuja, Managing Director and Chairperson, Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd.; Nemanthie Kooragamage, Director - Group Sustainable Business, MAS Holdings; and many more. View all speakers.

Leadership Roundtables to Catalyse Action

The Summit also facilitated 18 strategic roundtable meetings that brought together curated groups of executives, policy makers, leading industry voices, and sustainability experts from across the value chain and different markets for fruitful dialogues on how to address pressing sustainability issues and act accordingly, including: Building Circular Systems for India, co-hosted by SU.RE - Sustainable Resolution and supported by British Council India; Pay Equity Interventions in European Value Chains, co-hosted by PwC; Indigenous Partnership for the Fashion, Apparel and Textile Industry, co-hosted by Ralph Lauren and Conservation International; Impactful Influence, co-hosted by UN Environment Programme; Accelerating Collective Action for Circular Materials, co-hosted by Mango; and many more. View the Roundtable programme.

Previous Summit roundtable meetings held in 2022 and 2023 effectively instigated the formulation of new GFA impact and policy programmes such as the Renewable Energy Initiative, Global Circular Fashion Forum , and the Global Textiles Policy Forum.

Prominent brands and organisations unveiled new actions and initiatives at the event, highlights include:

- GFA launched the Fashion CEO Agenda 2024 - a strategic resource designed to steer fashion organisations towards achieving a net positive industry by 2050. In line with the 2024 theme of Global Fashion Summit, this year's Fashion CEO Agenda presents five pivotal opportunities for fashion executives and the industry at large to unlock transformative impact. Read more.

- GFA and PDS Ventures revealed Bloom Labs as the winner of the Trailblazer Programme 2024 - a project to identify promising early-stage innovators who are working to accelerate the transformation of the fashion and textile industry. Eight shortlisted Trailblazers were showcased at the Summit and the winner, Bloom Labs, will now receive a significant equity investment and commercial and operational support to help bring the innovation to scale. Read more.

- ACT is proud to have announced during the Global Fashion Summit, that it has successfully supported brands and IndustriALL in signing individual legally binding support agreements. This support is tailor made to support the ongoing collective bargaining process in Cambodia for improved wages and working conditions. Read more.

- The Ellen MacArthur Foundation announced The Fashion ReModel, a demonstration project that involves leading brands from across high-end, activewear, retailers, mid-range, and high-street. It aims to identify solutions and unlock barriers in order to scale circular business models and begin to decouple revenue from production. Read more.

- GFA co-hosted a roundtable with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners to progress the Renewable Energy Initiative. During the session, participants identified manufacturing countries that could benefit from renewable energy infrastructure, what current barriers are preventing renewable energy uptake, and what opportunities there are to shape solutions with the renewable energy sector. Read more.

- The Fashion Pact in partnership with Apparel Impact Institute, Guidehouse, and DBS Bank, announced brands commitment to the Future Supplier Initiative - a collective financing model for brands to support suppliers in accessing affordable loans to decarbonise their factories. Full details launch 13 June 2024. Read more.

- Launched at the Global Fashion Summit, the Indigenous Partnership Principles for the Fashion, Apparel and Textile Industries were developed in partnership between Conservation International and Textile Exchange with direct input and leadership from Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The principles include 12 criteria to guide companies to better center Indigenous Peoples and local communities' rights and perspectives across product development initiatives and supply chains. Read more.

- The eight members of GFA's Next Gen Assembly programme participated in a closed-door Roundtable `How Can Fashion Value Economies of Wellbeing?', co-hosted by Centre for Sustainable Fashion and Target. Building on the Next Gen Assembly programme's topical focus, the Members explored the power of economies of wellbeing for driving change in the fashion industry and took inspiration from the experiences of the participating industry leaders. Read more.

Innovation Forum connected fashion companies with sustainable solution providers

This year's Summit also presented an Innovation Forum, enabling small and large companies to meet with 31 sustainable solution providers - equipping them with the concrete tools to quickly turn words into meaningful actions. More than 400 facilitated introductions and business meetings between fashion companies and sustainable solution providers took place during the Summit.

Federica Marchionni, CEO, Global Fashion Agenda, says: "For 15 years GFA has used the Summit to activate impact and forge new initiatives while educating and mobilising the fashion industry. Sustainability has moved from a peripheral concern to a central focus becoming an agenda-setter even in boardrooms. However, the pace of sustainability progress has not accelerated enough to respond to our changing world and this year's Summit was focused on identifying the barriers to Unlock the Next Level and accelerate further implementation. We have reached a polarisation point where the geopolitical environment around us is threatening to stunt our progress and I must emphasise that we need to unite to meet the 2030 and 2050 agenda. Whether we differ in geographies, cultures or political mindsets, sustainability must be a unifying bond among all of us. The Summit championed evidence-based strategies poised to reshape the business ethos, placing net positivity as the overarching goal. Now, each and every company must depart from business as usual and as intentions meet determination, I eagerly await the next level of fashion's systemic transformation."

Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024 was supported by Principal Sponsor, RE&UP, a circulartech company reshaping the traditional textile-to-textile paradigm. Together with affiliated company ISKO, one of the world's leading global textile companies with over a century of textile innovation experience, they are committed to a more responsible and technologically evolved future for textiles and fashion.

For more information about the Summit visit globalfashionsummit.com. Learn more about Global Fashion Agenda at globalfashionagenda.org.

For more information contact: [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/global-fashion-agenda/r/unlocking-the-next-level--esteemed-fashion-leaders-assemble-in-copenhagen-to-catalyse-and-accelerate,c3987635

The following files are available for download:

https://news.cision.com/global-fashion-agenda/i/global-fashion-summit--copenhagen-edition-2024---federica-marchionni--ceo--global-fashion-agenda,c3303681 Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024 - Federica Marchionni, CEO, Global Fashion Agenda

SOURCE Global Fashion Agenda
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On 21-23 May, Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024 assembled over 1000 esteemed representatives from brands, retailers, NGOs, policy, manufacturers, and innovators from both the fashion and adjacent industries to unlock the next level of sustainability. Presented by Global Fashion Agenda (GFA), the non-profit organisation that is accelerating the transition to a net positive fashion industry, the Summit marked its 15-year anniversary at the iconic Copenhagen Concert Hall.

The event's theme, `Unlocking the Next Level', impelled participants to urgently act on the learnings from the forum to support the implementation of solutions to reach both near and long-term goals. Under this premise, the Summit presented content centred around evidence-based impact, with much of the programme dedicated to educational and action-oriented business case studies.

Each session in the programme targeted a next level barrier to progress and integrated a solution unlock to overcome the barrier. The 33 content sessions across the Summit's three stages included: `Future Fibers: Enabling the Circular Model'. `Lead or Be Led', `Fragmented Futures: Fashion's Policy Agenda', `Pathways to Indigenous Partnership', `Reverse Logistics for Circular Fashion Systems', `Towards Binding Agreements on Wages', and many more. View the full programme.

Attendees heard from over 110 speakers including Her Majesty The Queen of Denmark;

Marie-Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability and Institutional Affairs Officer, Kering; Mehdi Benabadji, CEO, Brioni; Ryan Gellert, CEO, Patagonia Works & Patagonia; Adam Karlsson, CFO, H&M Group; Halide Alagoz, Chief Product Officer, Ralph Lauren Corporation; Paul Polman, Business Leader, Campaigner, Co-Author of Net Positive; Kaisa Tikk, Head of Commercial Sustainability, Maersk; Nicolaj Reffstrup, Founder, GANNI, Barbara Penafiel Durruty, Circular Economy Policy Implementation Coordinator, Ministry of Environment of Chile; Fatih Konukoglu, Chairman, Re&Up; Edwin Keh, CEO, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel; Francisco Souza, Senior VP Global Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities Center, Conservation International; Harish Ahuja, Managing Director and Chairperson, Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd.; Nemanthie Kooragamage, Director - Group Sustainable Business, MAS Holdings; and many more. View all speakers.

Leadership Roundtables to Catalyse Action

The Summit also facilitated 18 strategic roundtable meetings that brought together curated groups of executives, policy makers, leading industry voices, and sustainability experts from across the value chain and different markets for fruitful dialogues on how to address pressing sustainability issues and act accordingly, including: Building Circular Systems for India, co-hosted by SU.RE - Sustainable Resolution and supported by British Council India; Pay Equity Interventions in European Value Chains, co-hosted by PwC; Indigenous Partnership for the Fashion, Apparel and Textile Industry, co-hosted by Ralph Lauren and Conservation International; Impactful Influence, co-hosted by UN Environment Programme; Accelerating Collective Action for Circular Materials, co-hosted by Mango; and many more. View the Roundtable programme.

Previous Summit roundtable meetings held in 2022 and 2023 effectively instigated the formulation of new GFA impact and policy programmes such as the Renewable Energy Initiative, Global Circular Fashion Forum , and the Global Textiles Policy Forum.

Prominent brands and organisations unveiled new actions and initiatives at the event, highlights include:

- GFA launched the Fashion CEO Agenda 2024 - a strategic resource designed to steer fashion organisations towards achieving a net positive industry by 2050. In line with the 2024 theme of Global Fashion Summit, this year's Fashion CEO Agenda presents five pivotal opportunities for fashion executives and the industry at large to unlock transformative impact. Read more.

- GFA and PDS Ventures revealed Bloom Labs as the winner of the Trailblazer Programme 2024 - a project to identify promising early-stage innovators who are working to accelerate the transformation of the fashion and textile industry. Eight shortlisted Trailblazers were showcased at the Summit and the winner, Bloom Labs, will now receive a significant equity investment and commercial and operational support to help bring the innovation to scale. Read more.

- ACT is proud to have announced during the Global Fashion Summit, that it has successfully supported brands and IndustriALL in signing individual legally binding support agreements. This support is tailor made to support the ongoing collective bargaining process in Cambodia for improved wages and working conditions. Read more.

- The Ellen MacArthur Foundation announced The Fashion ReModel, a demonstration project that involves leading brands from across high-end, activewear, retailers, mid-range, and high-street. It aims to identify solutions and unlock barriers in order to scale circular business models and begin to decouple revenue from production. Read more.

- GFA co-hosted a roundtable with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners to progress the Renewable Energy Initiative. During the session, participants identified manufacturing countries that could benefit from renewable energy infrastructure, what current barriers are preventing renewable energy uptake, and what opportunities there are to shape solutions with the renewable energy sector. Read more.

- The Fashion Pact in partnership with Apparel Impact Institute, Guidehouse, and DBS Bank, announced brands commitment to the Future Supplier Initiative - a collective financing model for brands to support suppliers in accessing affordable loans to decarbonise their factories. Full details launch 13 June 2024. Read more.

- Launched at the Global Fashion Summit, the Indigenous Partnership Principles for the Fashion, Apparel and Textile Industries were developed in partnership between Conservation International and Textile Exchange with direct input and leadership from Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The principles include 12 criteria to guide companies to better center Indigenous Peoples and local communities' rights and perspectives across product development initiatives and supply chains. Read more.

- The eight members of GFA's Next Gen Assembly programme participated in a closed-door Roundtable `How Can Fashion Value Economies of Wellbeing?', co-hosted by Centre for Sustainable Fashion and Target. Building on the Next Gen Assembly programme's topical focus, the Members explored the power of economies of wellbeing for driving change in the fashion industry and took inspiration from the experiences of the participating industry leaders. Read more.

Innovation Forum connected fashion companies with sustainable solution providers

This year's Summit also presented an Innovation Forum, enabling small and large companies to meet with 31 sustainable solution providers - equipping them with the concrete tools to quickly turn words into meaningful actions. More than 400 facilitated introductions and business meetings between fashion companies and sustainable solution providers took place during the Summit.

Federica Marchionni, CEO, Global Fashion Agenda, says: "For 15 years GFA has used the Summit to activate impact and forge new initiatives while educating and mobilising the fashion industry. Sustainability has moved from a peripheral concern to a central focus becoming an agenda-setter even in boardrooms. However, the pace of sustainability progress has not accelerated enough to respond to our changing world and this year's Summit was focused on identifying the barriers to Unlock the Next Level and accelerate further implementation. We have reached a polarisation point where the geopolitical environment around us is threatening to stunt our progress and I must emphasise that we need to unite to meet the 2030 and 2050 agenda. Whether we differ in geographies, cultures or political mindsets, sustainability must be a unifying bond among all of us. The Summit championed evidence-based strategies poised to reshape the business ethos, placing net positivity as the overarching goal. Now, each and every company must depart from business as usual and as intentions meet determination, I eagerly await the next level of fashion's systemic transformation."

Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024 was supported by Principal Sponsor, RE&UP, a circulartech company reshaping the traditional textile-to-textile paradigm. Together with affiliated company ISKO, one of the world's leading global textile companies with over a century of textile innovation experience, they are committed to a more responsible and technologically evolved future for textiles and fashion.

For more information about the Summit visit globalfashionsummit.com. Learn more about Global Fashion Agenda at globalfashionagenda.org.

For more information contact: [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/global-fashion-agenda/r/unlocking-the-next-level--esteemed-fashion-leaders-assemble-in-copenhagen-to-catalyse-and-accelerate,c3987635

The following files are available for download:

https://news.cision.com/global-fashion-agenda/i/global-fashion-summit--copenhagen-edition-2024---federica-marchionni--ceo--global-fashion-agenda,c3303681 Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024 - Federica Marchionni, CEO, Global Fashion Agenda
MCLEAN, Va., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- V2X, Inc., (NYSE: VVX), a leading provider of global mission solutions, announced that company management will address the Baird 2024 Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference in New York City on Tuesday, June 4, at 3:45 p.m. Eastern time.

About V2X

V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure  by aligning people, actions, and outputs. Our lifecycle solutions improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness.

The Company delivers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions across the operations and logistics, aerospace, training, and technology markets to national security, defense, civilian and international clients. Our global team of approximately 16,000 employees brings innovation to every point in the mission lifecycle, from preparation to operations, to sustainment, as it tackles the most complex challenges with agility, grit, and dedication.

Contact Information

Investor Contact

Media Contact Mike Smith, CFA

Angelica Spanos Deoudes [email protected]

[email protected] 719-637-5773

571-338-5195

SOURCE V2X, Inc.
Elon Musk spoke at the VivaTech conference in Paris on Thursday. Apu Gomes via Getty Images

Elon Musk said he wasn't involved in President Joe Biden's tariff on Chinese electric cars.

The White House announced the 100% tariff on Chinese EV imports on May 14.

Earlier this year, Musk said the government should consider trade barriers for Chinese automakers.

Elon Musk said he was surprised when President Joe Biden announced a tariff on Chinese electric vehicles.

"Neither Tesla nor I asked for these tariffs," the Tesla CEO said during an interview at the VivaTech conference in Paris on Thursday.

"Tesla competes quite well in the market in China with no tariffs and no deferential support. In general, I'm in favor of no tariffs," he added.

ADVERTISEMENT

On May 14, the White House said it planned to implement a 100% tariff on EVs that had been made by Chinese automakers in an attempt to combat "China's unfair trade practices."

Tesla has dealt with some headwinds recently, including in China, the world's largest EV market. Tesla's China sales in April were down 18% compared with the prior year, according to the China Passenger Car Association. Globally, the EV company posted its first year-over-year quarterly decline since 2020 during the first quarter of 2024.

Tesla has been facing increasing competition from Chinese EV companies. In the last quarter of 2023, Chinese automaker BYD temporarily unseated Tesla as the world's top seller of electric cars.

Musk's comments on Thursday on China tariffs seem to represent a reversal for the billionaire. As recently as January, Musk said that the US should consider trade barriers to prevent Chinese EV companies from taking over the US market, warning that the companies could "demolish" the US market if action was not taken.

In April, the Tesla CEO said "Chinese car companies are by far the most competitive."

"That's where we find the toughest competitive challenges," Musk said during a podcast with Norges Bank Investment Management CEO Nicolai Tangen. "They make great cars and they work very hard."

Do you work for Tesla or have a tip? Reach out to the reporter via a non-work email and device at gkay@businessinsider.com or 248-894-6012

Read the original article on Business Insider
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
United Nations, May 24 : India has abstained on a UN General Assembly resolution to create an annual day to commemorate the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica during the civil war that followed the break-up of Yugoslavia.

The resolution sponsored by Germany and Rwanda was carried on Thursday with only 84 votes in the 193-member Assembly reflecting the deep divisions over it because most such motions are adopted by consensus.

Nineteen countries voted against it, while 68 abstained and 22 altogether stayed away.

India did not explain the reasons for the abstention.

With the passage of the resolution, the UN will commemorate every year on July 11 the killing of about 8,000 Bosnian Muslims by Bosnian Serbs, who were Orthodox Christians, as "The International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica".

The victims were men and boys separated from the women in the town of Srebrenica in Bosnia and Herzegovina by ethnic Serb fighters who overran it during the three-and-a-half-year-long civil war when the ethnic communities fought for supremacy in the nascent nation after Yugoslavia splintered.

Germany's Permanent Representative Antje Leendertse said her country was sponsoring the resolution to prevent a genocide like that perpetrated by German Nazis from recurring.

Six million Jews were killed by Nazis during World War II.

The commemoration was to honour the memory of the victims of the Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and was not directed against Serbs, but only against those who committed the killings, Leendertse added.

Aleksandar Vucic, the President of neighbouring Serbia, questioned the standing of Germany to make such a proposal given its history and said it was introduced for political reasons and to stigmatise the Serbian people.

Those who carried out the massacre have already been tried, convicted, and sentenced to prison, he said.

The resolution was one-sided and was silent on the massacres of Serbians and people of other ethnicities, he added.

Under the 1995 peace accord ending the civil war in Bosnia, it has a tripartite presidency shared by an ethnic Bosnian, a Serb, and a Croat.

The Serb President of Bosnia, Milorad Dodik, and Vucic came to the UN to campaign against the resolution, which they said was directed against the ethnic Serbs.

In the polarised UN, it was viewed through the prism of the confrontation between the West and Russia, making it appear as directed against Serbia, a Moscow ally, and ethnic Serbians in Bosnia, and as a Western attempt to show solidarity with Muslims, who are furious with the Western-backed Israel attacks on Gaza that have killed more than 34,000.

The resolution introduced without a consensus and extensive consultations only ended up showing the rift in the UN.

While most Muslim countries voted with the West on the resolution, they also raised the killings in Gaza.

Egypt's Permanent Representative Osama Abdel Khalek, for example, while supporting the resolution, criticised the West for not showing the same degree of concern for those killed in Gaza.

Mexico gave a typical reason shared by many who spoke, that it did not contribute to reconciliation in the region.

Mexico's Permanent Representative Hector Enrique Vasconcelos y Cruz said that "inclusive dialogue among all concerned states and relevant parties of the region is the heart of initiatives such as this one, work towards reconciliation and strengthen efforts to promote the rights of victims to truth, justice and reparations".

The resolution was "not accompanied by due process of inclusive consultations, especially with countries in the Balkans region," he added.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
Madrid, May 24 : At least four people have died and scores more were injured in the collapse of a restaurant on the Spanish island of Mallorca, according to emergency services.

The emergency services of the Balearic Islands said on Thursday that 21 people were injured in the collapse of the building on the Playa de Palma strip popular with foreign tourists.

The identity of the victims and whether tourists were among them was not initially known.

Local media reported that the first floor of the restaurant Medusa Beach Club collapsed at about 8:30 p.m.

The first floor of the restaurant collapsed down to the basement, media, including the newspaper El Pais, reported citing eyewitnesses.

Some victims were reportedly still under the rubble, they said.

The cause of the collapse was initially unknown.

"Sending all my affection and warmth to the families of the four people who lost their lives in this tragic incident and wishing the recovery of all the injured," said regional president Marga Prohens in a post on social media platform X.

Prohens added that Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez had been in touch to offer his support.

The popular stretch of beach known as Playa de Palma is an area favoured by young German holidaymakers.

--IANS/DPA

khz
Lucknow, May 24 : A brawl at a birthday party led to the death of a guest when two youths beat him up, under the Cantonment police station area, the police said.

According to the police, both the victim and accused were aged below 25 years.

The victim, identified as Nitin Prakash of Bhagwant Nagar, in the Nilmatha area, was invited to the party organised on the birthday of his friend, Monu Bose of the same locality on Thursday. He was invited along with his brother, Sachin Prakash.

Monu had also invited Nitin's friend-turned-foe Ritik, of Durgapuri locality in the area, who along with his aides was attending the party.

While partying, Nitin ran into Ritik and started arguing, with Ritik's aides ganging up. They caught Nitin, took him outside the venue, and attacked him with bricks.

"There were too many people but there was no one to help us. Ritik and his aides dragged Nitin outside the tent where the party was on and then they all attacked him with bricks. They pinned him down and smashed his head with bricks before fleeing the scene."

"The elders rushed to the scene when they heard Nitin and me crying for help and Nitin was rushed to a hospital where he was pronounced dead," Sachin said in the FIR.

Police have registered a case under IPC 302 (murder) in this connection.
LOS ANGELESFalcon Studios began rolling its cameras in the early 1970s, featuring several of the most iconic men in some of the most-talked-about gay porn films in the world. Now, more than 50 years later, award-winning director Marc MacNamara is breathing new life into some of the studios standout classics and reimagining fans' favorite momentsshot for shotwith todays top stars in Falcon 1971. Out now on FalconStudios.com, the films opening scene stars Falcon Studios newcomers Johnny Donovan and Joseph Hart as they hit the water to channel Dick Fisk and Sky Dawson in Champs. The entire movie, featuring recreations of classic hookups from Falcon Studios standards like The Other Side of Aspen, Upperclassman, Double Whammy, and Ramcharger, is also available on DVD and as a digital download via the Falcon | NakedSword store.



Fans can also view the official trailer for Falcon 1971 over on the official Falcon | NakedSword YouTube channel and purchase items from the Falcon 1971 capsule collection on the online Falcon Merch Shop. Released just in time for Pride month, this selection of limited edition merchandise features the bold Falcon 1971 logo on retro-style apparel, a weekender bag, and a coffee mug. The full capsule collection can be viewed and purchased now over on FalconMerchShop.com.



With the Miami sun beaming down on them, muscle men Joseph Hart and Johnny Donovan are eager to recreate Falcon Studios aquatic Champs hookup as they head outdoors and board their private boat. Taking the lead from iconic gay porn stars Dick Fisk and Sky Dawson, Joseph swallows down Johnny while on the water before being rimmed by his mustachioed buddy. Johnny, glistening from the sweat covering his built bod, then buries himself in Joseph as the two fuck bareback.



In upcoming episodes of Falcon 1971, horny jock Matty West is letting his imagination run wild as he envisions what it would be like if he and famous porn star Reese Rideout reenacted Al Parker and Casey Donovans iconic fuck from the classic The Other Side of Aspen. Next, its all about Hal Drake and Mike Coles inmate hookup from Upperclassman as police officer Joseph Hart goes behind bars, strips off his uniform, and gets barebacked by ripped bodybuilder Baxxx. College hunk Ro Reyes then dreams up his own version of Big Ben and Tom Manleys Double Whammy that has hung stranger Alexander Muller eating out and barebacking his bubble butt. The final filthy fantasy has heartthrob Johnny Donovan stumbling across Ed Wiley and Bob Bishops off-roading hookup Ramcharger on his motel TV and thinking about what it would be like to go for a bareback joyride with his favorite fuck buddy, Ty Santana.
Tehran, May 24 : The General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces has released the first report on the causes of a recent helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage.

Following the crash, a senior investigation committee composed of experts, specialists, and technicians arrived at the scene on Monday morning, the semi-official Tasnim news agency quoted the report by the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces as saying on Friday.

According to the report, the helicopter had remained on its predetermined course all along the way and had not deviated from the flight route.

Nearly one minute and a half before the incident, the pilot of the crashed helicopter had contacted the other two helicopters of the President's convoy, the report said.

No trace of bullets or similar items have been detected on the wreckage of the crashed helicopter, it added as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

After crashing into the mountain, the helicopter had caught fire, it said.

"Complications of the region, fog, and low temperature" had caused the search and rescue operations to continue until nightfall and then throughout the night, the report said, adding, "At 5 a.m. local time on Monday, with the assistance of drones, the exact location of the incident was identified."

No suspicious issue had been detected in the conversations between the watchtower and the flight crew, it added.

More details would be provided after further investigations, it said.

Raisi and his entourage were en route to East Azerbaijan province when the helicopter carrying them crashed in a mountainous area on Sunday.

Also on board the helicopter were Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Mohammad Ali Ale-Hashem, the representative of Iran's Supreme Leader to East Azerbaijan.

Raisi was laid to rest on Thursday in the holy shrine of Imam Reza in his hometown, the northeastern city of Mashhad.
Kiev, May 24 : At least seven people were killed and 21 others were injured in a wave of missile strikes on Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv, local authorities said.

Oleg Synegubov, the Governor of the Kharkiv region, said on Thursday that Russian forces launched about 15 missiles against the city.

All those killed were employees of a printing house, Synegubov said, noting that about 50 people were working inside the building at the time of the missile strike, Xinhua news agency reported.

The tensions in the Kharkiv region have escalated this month as Russia launched a fresh offensive.
Lucknow, May 24 : A 29-year-old woman has lodged an FIR against her friend, accusing him of raping and blackmailing her after clicking objectionable photographs.

In her FIR lodged at Talkatora police station, the victim said that the accused took her to a hotel near the Alambagh bus stand in October 2023 and offered her a cold drink laced with sedatives before sexually assaulting her.

Thereafter, the accused clicked nude photographs, said the victim in the FIR.

Since then, the accused has been blackmailing the woman over the phone demanding money and threatening to post her nude pictures on social media. To date, the accused has forcibly taken Rs 50,000 from the victim.

The victim informed her family members when the accused started demanding Rs 5 lakh.

The victim said that the accused works as a driver in a school in Dadar, Mumbai.

According to family members of the victim, the accused is continuously calling the victim on her cell phone and issuing threats.

The victim, who was working as a teacher in a private school in Talkatora, has even left the job due to mental harassment.

Talkatora Station House Officer, K.C. Dubey, said that an FIR has been registered under the relevant sections and the accused will be arrested soon.
Lucknow, May 24 : Lucknow will embark on its month-long celebration of Bada Mangal, a celebration typical to the state capital, from May 29.

The festival assumes greater significance since it comes at a time when general elections are being held.

The Tuesdays in the Hindi month, Jyeshtha, are dedicated to the Hindu deity, Lord Hanuman and are also a symbol of communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims.

While city police are making plans to ensure the smooth flow of traffic, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has pledged to make the celebrations a zero-waste event.

Lucknow Municipal Commissioner Inderjit Singh said, "Like last year, the registration of Bhandaras (community feasts) will be mandatory before organising them."

Bada Mangla starts on May 28 and continues till June 18.

"We are collaborating with NGOs and a meeting is being held to plan out how the celebrations can set an example of zero waste," Singh said.

The previous year, it was made mandatory for those who organise Bhandaras to register beforehand. The organisers registered on the LMC portal, Lucknow One app or by calling 1533 - the control room operated by the LMC.

"The same process will be followed this year too, but this time, the emphasis will be on zero waste," stressed the commissioner.

Registration is a relatively simple process with one required to visit the police website to fill out the form.

Details such as names, numbers, and the approximate number of people to be fed will have to be handed in at the time of registration.

Registration becomes necessary so that vehicles and facilities can be provided by the LMC for garbage collection segregation and disposal so that work can be done to keep the city clean and tidy.

Given the traffic menace that people face, especially every Tuesday (and often Saturday too) during Bada Mangal, the traffic police in Lucknow are drafting a plan for the city.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (central), Raveena Tyagi said, "A traffic plan is being made to make it convenient for the public. "We will roll out the plans by the end of this week."

The festival of Bada Mangal has an interesting history. The festival is a symbol of the Ganga-Jamuni culture of Lucknow and is said to have originated during the Mughal rule some 400 years ago.

According to historians, the Hanuman temple in Aliganj was constructed by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan in 1798 when his mother Aliya Begum''s prayers were reportedly answered and the Nawab was blessed with a son.

Aliya Begum insisted on building the temple and the Nawab complied.

Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last nawab of Awadh, continued the tradition by holding community feasts for Hanuman devotees.

The Aliganj temple has a star and a crescent on the dome and the ''Bada Mangal'' festival is a perfect example of Hindu-Muslim unity.

There are over 9,000 big and small Hanuman temples in Lucknow who open their doors at the stroke of midnight and devotees continue to offer prayers for the entire day.

Devotees set up large bhandaras across the city to distribute free prasad and water to everyone. From halwa-puri, aloo-kachori, chola-chawal, kadhi chawal to juice and now, even chowmein and custard -- the bhandaras offer tasty prasad to everyone.
Tokyo, May 24 : Japan froze the assets of eleven entities and one individual linked to North Korea's supply of weapons to Russia on Friday.

"The Government of Japan has strongly condemned Russia's procurement of arms from North Korea, as it constitutes a violation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs) prohibiting the transfer and procurement of all arms and related materiel to and from North Korea, and may lead to further deterioration of the situation in Ukraine," Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

The ministry said that nine Russian entities and one individual would have their assets frozen alongside two entities in Belarus.

Japan has been supporting Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion, including pledging $37 million to a NATO fund for air defence.

The country's pacifist constitution does not allow Japan to supply weapons to Ukraine itself.

North Korea, which is largely isolated due to its nuclear weapons programme, is internationally accused of supplying weapons and ammunition to Russia.

The governments in Moscow and Pyongyang have repeatedly dismissed reports of such arms deliveries.

Tensions in the Asia-Pacific region are high. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has significantly increased the scope of its weapons tests, including the testing of nuclear-capable missiles, and has stepped up its rhetoric against the US and its allies.

--IANS/DPA

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Taipei, May 24 : Taiwan's Defence Ministry on Friday said it had registered 49 Chinese warplanes in Taiwan's airspace within 24 hours, the highest number of Chinese daily sorties so far this year.

Among them, 35 Chinese military aircraft were spotted crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

In addition, the ministry said it had detected 19 Chinese navy vessels and seven Chinese coast guard ships operating around Taiwan on Thursday.

China on Thursday launched a two-day major military exercise around Taiwan, apparently to simulate a blockade around the island.

On Friday, Taiwan's Air Force also released photos and videos taken on Thursday, which showed the activities of Chinese Navy vessels and coast guard ships in the waters west of Taiwan.

The Chinese military exercises came three days after the inauguration of Taiwan's new President, Lai Ching-te, of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Tensions across the Taiwan Strait have risen since presidential and legislative elections were held in democratic Taiwan in January.

DPP on Thursday said that China's insistence on launching military exercises against Taiwan, despite high international concerns, not only showed its authoritarian nature but also "destroyed the status quo."

In the parliament, the DPP caucus on Friday condemned China's unilaterally altering the status quo, demanding an immediate halt of the drills.

On Monday, Lai said that peace, mutual benefits, and prosperous coexistence would be common goals for both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

A Chinese naval Colonel said on Thursday that conducting such military exercises was also "a severe punishment for the separatist forces of Taiwan independence and a serious warning against interference and provocation by outside forces."

Taiwan has had an independent government since 1949, but China considers the self-ruled democracy part of its territory.

--IANS/DPA

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Rohtak: Polling officials carrying the Electronic Voting Machine (EVMs) and other necessary inputs required for 2019 Lok Sabha elections, leave for their respective polling stations from the distribution centre in Rohtak, Haryana on May 11, 2019. (Ph. Image Source: IANS News

Chandigarh, May 24 : Nearly two crore voters, comprising 94 lakh women, in BJP-ruled Haryana on May 25 will decide the fate of 223 candidates, including two Union ministers, Rao Inderjit Singh and Krishan Pal Gurjar, after weeks of heated campaign for 10 parliamentary seats in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

The other heavyweights in the fray include Deepender Hooda and former Union minister Kumari Selja, both from Congress and two-time chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar of the BJP are among the contestants.

Three-time Hooda is on the ballot in the family Jat-dominated bastion Rohtak, while four-time MP Selja is trying her luck in Sirsa (reserved), the seat she twice represented in the Lok Sabha and Khattar, an RSS man with a clean image, is ensuring win in his maiden Lok Sabha battle in Karnal.

BJP's Naveen Jindal (54) is the youngest son of the richest woman in India, Savitri Jindal. Switched from the Congress to the BJP in March, he's in the fray from Kurukshetra, the seat he represented between 2004 and 2014.

Jindal will take on AAP candidate and former Rajya Sabha MP Sushil Gupta. The AAP is contesting the Lok Sabha elections in Haryana in an alliance with Congress and has been given Kurukshetra.

Likewise, BJP has fielded Ashok Tanwar from Sirsa, the seat he represented as a Congress MP from 2009 to 2014. Before switching to the BJP in January, he was with the Aam Aadmi Party.

The other candidates on the list are four-time MP Arvind Sharma, a surgeon by profession, who is in the fray from Rohtak the BJP nominee.

The state is also witnessing a fratricidal battle within the clan of one of Haryana's tallest Jat leaders and former Deputy Prime Minister Chaudhary Devi Lal, whose founded regional party, the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), and its offshoot outfit Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) are floundering.

Ranjit Singh, who is Devi Lal's youngest son, and Singh's two daughters-in-law of his eldest brother and five-time chief minister O.P. Chautala face one another in the dynastic supremacy feud from Hisar seat.

While Ranjit Singh, a Cabinet minister in the state government, is the BJP nominee, his two 'bahus' -- Naina Chautala and Sunaina Chautala are the JJP and the INLD candidates, respectively.

While Naina is the mother of former Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala and wife of Ajay Chautala, who is Devi Lal's grandson, Sunaina is the wife of Ravi Chautala, who is a son of INLD patriarch O.P. Chautala's elder brother Pratap Chautala.

Besides the Lok Sabha polls, there is a by-poll for the Karnal assembly seat, the seat vacated by Khattar, where Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the outgoing MP in the Lok Sabha from Kurukshetra, is among the nine candidates in the fray. Saini had replaced Khattar as the chief minister in March.

Amidst the blistering heatwave, the polling for the simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and the lone assembly seat will be held from 7 am to 6 pm in the sixth round of the seven-phase elections. Votes will be counted on June 4.

The main Opposition Congress is banking on "anti-incumbency" against BJP's 10-year rule in the state, besides anger among Jats, rising crime graph and unemployment, while the BJP is banking on "Modi Magic" to retain all parliamentary seats.

Ground reports indicate a neck-and-neck contest between the BJP and the Congress.

Regional outfits the INLD and the JJP, bank heavily on its traditional Jat votes, comprising 28 per cent of the state's population, are contesting on seven and 10 seats, respectively. The BSP has fielded candidates for nine seats.

This time, to save their "sinking ships" both the INLD and the JJP face a tough contest from the Congress, led by prominent Jat leader and two-time Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda. However, the BJP banks on non-Jat upper caste politics, despite getting 50 per cent of Jat votes in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Chief Minister Saini belongs to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community, which comprises 21 per cent of the state's electorate.

It has renominated two sitting OBC MPs -- Krishan Pal Gurjar and Rao Inderjeet Singh -- from Faridabad and Gurugram, respectively.

Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Agarwal told IANS that 19,812 polling stations have been set up in the state.

In addition, 219 temporary polling stations have also been set up. Extra arrangements have been made at all polling stations keeping in mind the heatwave.

Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur said over 35,000 police personnel, 112 companies of paramilitary forces and over 24,000 home guards would be deployed for the elections.

Additionally, 300 checkpoints will be established at intra-state and inter-state borders.

The state will have 10,343 polling locations. Among these, 1,362 locations with 3,033 booths have been identified as critical and 51 booths as vulnerable, necessitating additional police presence.

There will be 418 flying squads, 415 static surveillance teams, and 34 quick response teams. A total of 1,039 patrolling parties will ensure compliance with law and order and the model code of conduct, operating round-the-clock, he added.

In 2019, the BJP won all 10 constituencies, with a vote share of 58 per cent, improving its tally from 2014 when it managed to win seven out of the eight constituencies it had contested.

However, BJP's vote share slipped to 22 per cent in the assembly polls in October 2019.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at gulatiians@gmail.com)
Mainz, Germany : Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has stated that it is not about taking sides in the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East.

Baerbock said at an election campaign event on Thursday evening that she was doing everything she could to ensure that humanitarian aid reached Gaza, in a situation where Hamas had attacked Israel.

"That is not a contradiction for me," she said.

According to Baerbock, a child in Gaza whose mother had died suffered just as much as a child whose mother had been abducted to Gaza by Hamas.

"I don't have to decide whether I have more sympathy for one child or the other," she added.

Baerbock emphasised that human dignity must be regarded as inviolable.

According to Baerbock, Holocaust survivor Margot Friedlander, who was also present at the celebration of 75 years of Germany's Basic Law in Berlin on Thursday, put it in a nutshell by saying there was no Jewish blood, no Muslim blood and no Christian blood.

"There is only human blood," Baerbock said.

Around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 taken hostage in the Gaza Strip during the Hamas attacks in the Israeli border area on October 7.

The terrorist attack was the trigger for Israel's military offensive in Gaza, in which, according to the Hamas-controlled health authority, more than 35,500 people have been killed so far.

--IANS/DPA

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Seoul, May 24 : South Korea on Friday imposed independent sanctions on seven North Koreans and two Russian vessels for engaging in illicit weapons and fuel trade with Russia and other activities in violation of UN sanctions.

The latest move came as South Korea seeks to step up efforts to curb the North's activities banned under multiple UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions after a UN panel monitoring the enforcement of North Korean sanctions ended at the end of last month after Russia vetoed the resolution on extending the panel's mandate, Yonhap news agency reported.

Rim Yong-hyok, head of the Syrian unit of the Korea Mining and Development Trading Corp., a major North Korean arms dealer, is among the seven North Koreans.

Rim is suspected of involvement in the illegal trade of weapons and arms equipment with Russia. He was cited in the UN panel's March report on North Korean sanctions implementation as a man who handled weapons deals with Russia's Wagner mercenary group.

Han Hyok-chol, head of Taeryong Trading Co., is accused of bringing Russian diesel into North Korea. Under Resolution 2397, adopted by the UNSC in 2017, UN member states are prohibited from exporting more than 4 million barrels of crude oil and 5,00,000 barrels of refined oil to the North annually.

The five others are: Kim Jong-gil, Jang Ho-yong, Ri Kyong-sik, Ri yong-min and Park Kwang-hyok. They are believed to have worked illegally at IT companies in Vladivostok in Russia's Far East to earn hard currency to fund the state's nuclear and missile programs -- also banned under Resolution 2375.

The two Russian vessels, MAIA-1 and MARIA, are suspected of transporting containers loaded with military supplies to and from North Korea and Russia.

The sanctioned vessels need special approval from South Korean port authorities if they wish to enter a South Korean port.
Sydney, May 24 : About 100 people were feared dead after a huge landslide battered a remote village in Papua New Guinea, the media reported.

The incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. local time in Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, located over 600 km northwest of Port Moresby, Xinhua news agency reported quoting ABC.

"It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours, and the entire village has gone down," Elizabeth Laruma, President of the Porgera Women in Business Association, was quoted as saying.

"From what I can presume, it's about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground," Laruma added.

Details are awaited.
SAN FRANCISCOBijou Video and PinkLabel.TV have teamed up to present an adults-only summer film series during June at San Franciscos 4-Star Theater featuring historic erotic cinema by adult directors Peter de Rome, Maria Beatty and Arch Brown.

The screenings are set to run June 3, 10 and 17, and tickets are on sale now for $15. The program is as follows:

June 3rd - Peter de Romes The Destroying Angel

The series kicks off with acclaimed 70s avant-garde erotic filmmaker Peter de Rome's 1976 Hand in Hand Films horror-porn, The Destroying Angel, recently remastered from a 16mm transfer. Loosely based on an Edgar Allan Poe story, the film focuses on Caswell Campbell, a priest in training on sabbatical, torn between the call of the cloth and his pent-up lust. Religious repression leads to internaland physicalfragmentation as Caswell repeatedly glimpses his sexually ravenous doppelganger and is drawn into a bizarre underworld of psychedelic supernatural sex, with rough and kinky action and surreal, stylized sex scenes. Expressive photography and trippy editing from Hand in Hand founders Jack Deveau and Robert Alvarez and excellent music selections enhance the films atmosphere, and it culminates in a nerve-shattering climax of frenzied emotion (Torso Magazine).

June 10th - Maria Beatty Retrospective

The lesbian centerpiece of the series will showcase a retrospective of three films by famed fetish filmmaker Maria Beatty: The Elegant Spanking (1995), Ecstasy in Berlin, 1926 (2004), and Spit and Ashes (2019). The screening will be hosted by the Bay Areas own Annie Rose Malamet, a lesbian film writer versed in horror and adult genres, and hostess of the "Girls, Guts & Giallo" podcast.

Nouveau and sleekly produced, The Elegant Spanking is the story of a unique lesbian S&M relationship between a mistress and her maid. Enter their fantasy: a seductive chain of nostalgically hot images, shocking, amusing and dripping with sexual perversion. This "post-modern romantic subversion" shows fetish, fantasy and role-playing, mutual female masturbation, bare-bottom spanking, spike heel and foot worship in a totally new and classic approach to lesbian S&M erotica.

Decadent and luminous, Ecstasy in Berlin, 1926 was hailed as a new achievement of erotica upon its release. A golden Weimar beauty slips a needle into her creamy thigh, and while in her euphoria slips into erotic fantasy. She drifts through a variety of exotic experiences, all made possible by her dazzling submission and her partners absolute command. She dreams of being strictly corseted, whipped and bound, leading to a glowing, graphic climax. Music by Nick Holmes.

Spit and Ashes is a reimagining of the historical violence waged against women by patriarchal forces in the name of religion, medicine and family. The High Priestess embodies the wild, sexual and grotesquethe untamable hunger of female desire and the ultimate threat to male power. The Midwife is the spirit of all women who sought knowledge and agency over their own bodies and paid for their agency with their lives. Through a series of erotic and brutal rituals these women come together to reclaim their bodies and prepare for the fight ahead. Starring Sadie Lune and Dion De Rossi, with Daniel Maszkowicz. "Best Feature" Winner of the 2022 Golden Raincoat Awards.

The triple-header event will be accompanied by a Q&A with the director. A Venezuelan filmmaker who directs, acts and produces, Maria Beattys films are often made in black and white and explore various aspects of female sexuality, including BDSM and fetishism. Inspired by expressionist German cinema, French surrealism and American film noir, Maria Beatty is renowned for her profound explorations of female sexuality, fantasy, fetish and BDSM.

June 17th - Arch Browns Pier Groups

Closing the series iis Arch Brown's 1979 work Pier Groups, newly remastered from VHS. This historically significant classic focuses on sex at LGBTQ landmark the NYC piers, which served as a popular gay cruising locale and queer congregating space until its demolition. The film predicts the fate of the piers in its premise: a presumably straight engineer (Johnny Kovacs) is sent to inspect them for a demolition company. His neighbor, well-endowed Keith Anthoni (star of Catching Up), is also headed to the piers, but for a day of freewheeling sexual adventures. As Kovacs attempts to do his job, he continuously observes the ever-present hookups of Anthoni and countless other clones (with heavy emphasis on oral). The anonymous encountersraunchy, tender, enthusiasticbuild up to a kinky, climactic foursome with a touch of bondage. Kovacs reaction to the sexual activity all around him is ambiguousat times quietly comedic, but also lending the film a constant air of intrigue. Beautiful photography of the now-gone piers makes up the majority of this classic, capturing and immortalizing a particular time and place in gay culture. A hot and horny cast and exciting soundtrack (featuring original music by David Earnest, who also scored Browns The Night Before) cap off this gem.

The 4-Star Theater is located at 2200 Clement St., San Francisco, CA 94121.

Tickets are available at the links below:

The Destroying Angel

Maria Beatty Retrospective

Pier Groups

Follow PinkLabel.TV at @PinkLabelTV on X and Instagram.
New Delhi, May 24 : The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) has moved the Supreme Court challenging a Calcutta High Court order restraining it from publication of "derogatory" and "offending" advertisements against the Trinamool Congress.

New Delhi, May 24 (IANS) The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) has moved the Supreme Court challenging a Calcutta High Court order restraining it from publication of "derogatory" and "offending" advertisements against the Trinamool Congress.

On Friday, the matter was mentioned before a vacation bench presided over by Justice Bela M Trivedi for directions seeking urgent listing.

After much persuasion by the counsel representing the BJP, the Bench, also comprising Justice Pankaj Mithal, said that it would consider listing the plea.

In an order passed this week, Calcutta High passed an ex-parte injunction prohibiting the publication of advertisements which squarely violate the political rights of Trinamool and its functionaries.

A bench of Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharyya of the high court said that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) prohibits all participants in the election process from criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion.

It said that the Election Commission of India "grossly failed" to address, in due time, the complaints raised by the ruling Trinamool Congress.

"Accordingly, respondent no. 2 (BJP) is hereby restrained from further continuing with the publication of the offending advertisements till June 04, 2024, or until further order, whichever is earlier. The respondent no. 2 is further restrained from publishing advertisements in any form of media which is violative of the MCC issued by the ECI during the aforesaid period," the HC order said.
Bharat Ahlawwat talks about his dream of acting: 'Googled pictures with different expressions, tried to copy them'. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, May 24 : Bharat Ahlawwat has shared his story of a young boy with a dream of becoming an actor, revealing how he used to Google pictures with different expressions and poses, trying to replicate them and taking photos of himself.

Bharat, who is currently seen as Siddharth in the show 'Chaahenge Tumhe Itnaa', began his journey with modelling, a field he initially approached with caution.

Reflecting on his early passion for the camera, he said: "Becoming an actor has been my childhood dream. I have loved the camera since I was in school. I used to Google pictures with different expressions and poses and tried to copy them, taking photos of myself."

"Later, when I started modelling, I did reference shoots for a year. Initially, I didnat want to pursue modelling, but I wanted to start things on my own without my parents' support. After a year, I began receiving offers from big brands," he shared.

Encouraged by his success in modelling, Bharat decided to pursue his true passion -- acting. However, the journey was not straightforward.

"I had no clue how to give auditions or what they teach you in acting workshops before coming to Mumbai. I started everything after Covid. Initially, I encountered many challenges. But over time, you learn about Mumbai and how to tackle things. Itas a slow process and all about hard work, patience, and luck," he said.

Bharat added: "It took me four years to get my first big project as a lead, and I couldnat have imagined anything better than the aChaahenge Tumhe Itnaaa show as my big break. The character of Siddharth is a die-hard lover who can fight the world for his love. He is someone who will be by his partner's side in thick and thin."

aChaahenge Tumhe Itnaaa airs on Shemaroo Umang.
Kolkata, May 24 : After procuring some crucial clues, a team of officials from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of West Bengal Police probing the mysterious death of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim, has reached Dhaka.

Sources said some crucial information was accessed by the investigation officials after the arrest of a youth, Jihad Haoldar, a Mumbai-based butcher by profession. Haoldar was specially hired and brought to Kolkata, and was one of those who murdered and then disposed of the body of the Bangladesh MP.

The investigating officers are of the view that those who gave the contract to Haoladar, an illegal immigrant from Bangladesh, have their roots in that country, and hence a larger coordination between Bengal-CID and Bangladesh Police was required to crack the case.

Sources further said that the investigation officials have also got some specific clues on the honey-trapping angle behind the mysterious death of Anwarul Azim. In the entire episode, sources added, the name that is surfacing, again and again, is that of Akhtaruzaman, a close friend of the deceased MP and a Bangladeshi-origin US citizen.

According to confessions made by Haoldar, his main task was to de-skin the body of the deceased MP, an art he has mastered being a professional butcher by profession.

Azim, a three-time MP in Bangladesh, came to Kolkata for some treatment purposes on May 12 and initially, he had put up at the residence of his long associate and friend in Kolkata Gopal Biswas at Baranagar also in the northern outskirts of Kolkata.

However, on May 14 he went out of Biswasas residence and informed the latter he would be coming back on the same day. State police sources said that he went missing since then and his mobile phone was also switched off.
New Delhi, May 24 : The Supreme Court on Friday refused to pass any interim directions to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to disclose the authenticated record of voter turnout on its official website after each phase of polling for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Posting the matter for hearing post-summer vacations, a bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and S.C. Sharma said that passing interim directions at this stage would amount to granting final relief in the petitions and a "hands off" approach should be preferred once the election process is set in motion.

The poll body told the top court that disclosing the scanned legible copies of accounts of votes recorded at all polling stations would cause "chaos" in the election machinery.

In its affidavit, the ECI said that any change at the close of the election period will cause hardship and confusion in the electoral process as no time is left for providing adequate training to the polling parties which will be on duty for the last two phases of the election.

Last week, a bench headed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI), D.Y. Chandrachud, granted a week to the ECI to respond to the application seeking directions for disclosure on its official website the scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part- I (Account of Votes Recorded) of all polling stations containing the authenticated figures for votes polled, within 48 hours of the close of polling.

The plea also demanded that the ECI should provide a tabulation of constituency and polling station-wise figures of voter turnout in absolute numbers and percentage form for the ongoing general elections.

Referring to the voter turnout data published by the ECI on April 30 for the first two phases of polling, 11 days after the first phase of polling on April 19, and four days after the second phase of polling on April 26, the plea claimed "dereliction of duty" on the part of the poll panel in declaring election results (of the Lok Sabha and Assemblies through Electronic Voting Machines).

"The data, as published by the ECI in its press release dated April 30, 2024, shows a sharp increase (by about 5-6 per cent) as compared to the initial percentage announced by ECI, as of 7 p.m. on the day of polling," the application said.

The reply document filed by the ECI said that the voter turnout App continuously keeps reflecting data on a live basis and on the other hand, Form 17C is given to agents of candidates after the close of poll on polling day itself as per the statutory requirement.

"The voters and the candidates have a statutory remedy to challenge the election in their concerned constituency, by way of filing an election petition. However, the petitioner in the present application has failed to mention a single instance where such candidates or voters had filed an election petition on the basis of the allegations raised by the petitioner with respect to the General Elections to the Lok Sabha, 2019. This indicates that the allegation of discrepancies in voter turnout data made by the petitioner in the main petition as well as the present application is misleading, false and based on mere suspicion," it said.

The affidavit stated that the elections for the 19th Lok Sabha are at an advanced stage towards its conclusion and it has been a settled principle of law, that no petition, which may have the impact of either creating suspicion and/or impeding the conduct of the process and conclusion of elections, would deserve to be rejected at the threshold itself.

"There are also certain elements and vested interests who keep on throwing baseless and false allegations, creating an unwarranted atmosphere of suspicion - in the close proximity of time of conduct of every election. It is most humbly submitted that there is a consistent mala fide campaign/design/efforts to keep on raising suspicion and doubt in every possible manner and by misleading assertions and baseless allegations regarding the conduct of elections by the Election Commission of India," it added.
Bengaluru : Karnataka HC invalidates the Lok Sabha membership of Prajwal Revanna from the Hassan constituency. Image Source: IANS News

Bengaluru, May 24 : More than 30 victims have approached the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged sex videos case involving Prajwal Revanna, JD(S) MP and grandson of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, according to sources.

However, none of the victims are ready to lodge a police complaint in this regard.

The victims are so frightened that even after assurances of protection, they are not coming forward to lodge formal complaints.

The SIT officers are contemplating how to move forward in this regard, sources stated.

The SIT has established a helpline for victims considering the seriousness of the case.

Meanwhile, the SIT has issued a notice to Ajith, the driver of Bhavani Revanna (Prajwal Revanna's mother).

The officers suspect that Ajith made a video of one of the victims, allegedly kidnapped by JD(S) MLA HD Revanna (Prajwal Revanna's father), who is forcing her to give a statement that she was not sexually assaulted.

The SIT sources claimed that the video was recorded by Ajith before she was rescued by the SIT sleuths and was made viral later.

Even though the SIT had issued two notices for him to appear before it, he had not turned up for questioning. Now, the officers have launched a hunt for him.

Recently, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had written another letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking cancellation of the Diplomatic Passport of the Hassan sitting MP Prajwal Revanna who is the prime accused in the sex videos case.

The FIR against Prajwal Revanna contains charges of rape, sexual assault, disrobing women and forcibly videographing sexual acts in order to threaten the victims.

Meanwhile, former PM Deve Gowda on Thursday issued a stern warning to his fugitive grandson. Taking to social media, Deve Gowda had said, "I have issued a warning to Prajwal Revanna to return immediately from wherever he is and subject himself to the legal process. He should not test my patience any further."
Thiruvananthapuram, May 24 : Hours after an audio asking all bar owners in the state to give Rs 2.50 lakh each (amounting to a total of over Rs 20 crore) for "favourable" liquor policies surfaced on Friday, top Congress leaders demanded that Kerala Excise Minister M. B. Rajesh should step down.

In the audio, Animon, the president of the Idukki- Federation of Kerala Hotel Association, who is also the vice president of the apex body of bar hotel owners, asked all bar owners in his district for "funds in exchange of favorable liquor policy for 2024-25".

Speaking to the media, Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan said this is one of the biggest scams that has surfaced in the excise sector.

"A few years back, a similar audio clip stated that the then Excise Minister K. M. Mani had collected Rs one crore from bar owners wanting to open a bar (depending on star status). Soon after, a massive protest led by then CPI(M) state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan was held. Eventually, Mani had to step down (based on a court observation). That was Rs one crore, but this is more than Rs 20 crore. The Excise Minister has to quit and face a probe," said Satheesan.

During that time, the Left leaders had alleged that Mani had a note-counting machine at his house and the bribe received from bar owners used to be counted by him.

"Now, the only thing that we need to know now is where is the counting machine kept, is it in the house of the Excise Minister or Vijayan or is it at the CPI(M) state party headquarters? The Excise Minister has to quit and a probe should be announced," said Satheesan.

State Congress president K. Sudhakaran alleged that the call for collecting Rs 2.50 lakh from each bar owner by the ruling CPI(M) started before the Lok Sabha polls.

"The present audio is a reminder to all bar owners, who have not paid, to give money as the new liquor policy is all set to be announced shortly. For this payment, the state government is likely to relax rules for the operation and the rules of functioning of bars in the state. The excise minister has no other way but to resign," said Sudhakaran.

Generally, the annual liquor policy comes into effect from April 1 but this time as the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha polls is in force, it was deferred.

A few of the relaxations being expected in the new liquor policy are lifting of dry days (i.e. on the 1st of every calendar month, no retail liquor store, nor bars sell liquor) besides extending the timings for liquor sale at stores and bars.

Meanwhile, Excise Minister Rajesh told the media that the state government has taken note of the contents of the audio.

"I saw the news and heard the audio message. It is a very serious issue. I wish to state that the state government has yet to even sit down to formulate the new excise policy. For the past month, there have been several news reports discussing the details of the upcoming changes to the liquor policy. We will not sit idle and action will be taken. What it is going to be, will come out later," said Rajesh.

In the audio, Animon had claimed that he was sending the audio message on the advice of the state president of the association V. Sunil Kumar.

However, Kumar denied Animon's claims.

"When the Left government assumed office in 2016, there were only a few bars. At present, there are around 827 bar hotels, but no money has exchanged hands. In our association, there are 650 members and we are trying to buy a new building in the state capital city for which Rs 6.20 crore is required. We are now short of around a few crores and that's why we have started a collection drive, Sunil Kumar said.

"Animon and few others are opposed to this building project, and we know he is trying to float a organisation. Since this is against the rules of our association, Animon has been suspended and people like him can make any statements," he said.

Incidentally, a similar audio that came out during the tenure of the then Oommen Chandy government ( 2011-16) and the after-effects of it, eventually led to the resignation of the then Excise Minister K. M. Mani in 2015.

Mani had to step down following a massive protest led by then CPI(M) state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan, and strangely after the passing away of Mani, the party led by his son Jose K. Mani is now an ally of the Left government.
Man stabbed to death in Delhi. Image Source: IANS News

Wuhan, May 24 : Eight people were killed and another injured in a knife attack in Hubei Province, central China, authorities said on Friday.

The attacker, a 53-year-old man surnamed Lu, reportedly suffers from mental illness, according to Xinhua news agency.

He fatally stabbed eight people and injured another on Thursday morning in Xiaowu Township in the city of Xiaogan.

The injured person did not sustain life-threatening wounds.

Police have detained the suspect, and an investigation is underway.
Pune : , May 24 (IANS) The Pune Police on Friday said the minor accused in the Porsche crash in which two persons were killed, was 'fully in his senses' at the time of the accident, and they have prepared a watertight case which can put him behind bars for 10 years.

Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar said the police were probing the case from all angles, right from the time when the accused left his house on May 18 (Saturday) night, and till the Porsche car disaster around 2.30 a.m. on May 19 (Sunday) that ignited protests and a nationwide furore.

On the discrepancies pertaining to the blood sample reports of the accused, the CP said that there were two blood reports taken, one in a private hospital and another in the government's Sassoon Hospital.

Speaking to the media on reports speculating that the family driver had reportedly claimed he (the driver) was at the wheel, Kumar said that the matter is being probed as to why he (the driver) uttered it or who forced him (the driver) to make such a claim.

Referring to political charges that there were two FIRs lodged in the matter, Kumar said that in the first FIR registered on Sunday (May 19) morning the IPC Section 304A was invoked, and as the seriousness of the came forth, even the stringent Section 304 was added.

"There has been pressure on the police We are making an absolutely watertight case to ensure that the accused can go to jail for 10 years," Kumar asserted.

On a purported rap video reel viral on social media networks since Thursday -- allegedly recorded by the accused youth inside the police station that day (May 19) with a huge dose of expletives -- the police chief said that it was a fake, and made by some other person.

"We are probing the fake video case, who has made it and the motives behind it, and take appropriate action," Kumar said while denying the Opposition leaders' allegations that the accused was served pizzas and burgers while in police detention after the accident.

The fake video ostensibly using AI technology, was reportedly the brainchild of a techie from Madhya Pradesh who works for a New Delhi-based firm.
Tel Aviv, May 24 : Falling debris from the interception of a combat drone started a small fire near the northern Israeli city of Safed, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Friday.

Israeli fighter jets shot down the drone as it flew in from the east and while it was still outside Israeli territory, the IDF said.

Part of the interceptor missile used to down the drone fell near Safed. No one was injured, but a fire was sparked, the IDF said.

The Iranian-backed Islamic Resistance militia operating in Iraq claimed responsibility for the drone.

The Times of Israel reported that the aircraft was headed toward the Israeli harbour city of Haifa.

--IANS/DPA

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Hyderabad, May 24 : Tension prevailed at a private paramedical college in Bhadrachalam town of Telangana on Friday after a nursing student died under suspicious circumstances.

The deceased studentas relatives and students staged a protest at Maruthi Paramedical College, leading to a tense situation.

P. Karunya (18) was found in an unconscious state and a pool of blood in the college premises early Thursday.

The student allegedly had a head injury. She was shifted to a government hospital where she succumbed on Thursday night.

Angry over the incident, her relatives launched a protest at the college on Friday. They reached the college in a rally from the hospital. College students also joined the protest, demanding justice for Karunyaas family.

The protesters also tried to attack the chairman of the college. However, police intervened to save him.

The girlas family suspects that someone assaulted her in the hostel and pushed her down from an upper floor. Police said they were investigating the case.
Seattle Storm-Indiana Fever

While Charles Barkley thinks Caitlin Clark is receiving unjust scrutiny, an announcer appears to believe she received favorable treatment from at least one referee.

Clark and the Indiana Fever were in Emerald City to play the Seattle Storm Wednesday night, where they received their fifth straight loss to start the WNBA season. Despite the loss, Clark continues to generate fanfare, with Storm play-by-play voice Dick Fain calling the scene in Seattle The most fun call Ive had in a long time. So fun that Fain couldnt help but laugh at a referee failing to call what appeared to be a blatant foul on Clark.



Late in the third quarter, Storm guard Sami Whitcomb was driving to the basket but was stopped by Clark. With Whitcomb appearing to have the edge, she was quickly wrapped up and driven to the ground by the Indiana Fever superstar.

After realizing there was no whistle, Whitcomb laid on the court with her arms out and a look of befuddlement on her face, while Fain and analyst Elise Woodward appeared even more shocked by the no-call on the broadcast.

Watch this again, the no-call on the Caitlin Clark foul. Youve got to be kidding me! Fain said as he let out a hearty laugh while watching the replay.

Clark borderline clotheslined Whitcomb while attempting to stop her from getting to the basket. The announcers may not have wanted to come right out and criticize the official, but the shock and laughter from the booth was telling enough. It was a bizarre, missed call at best. It was favorable treatment for Clark at worst.

As Clark works through adjusting to the WNBA on a bad team, she was 6-16 from the field and 2-8 beyond the arc. Despite the poor shooting night, Clark impressively avoided picking up a foul during her 33 minutes on the court.

[Myles Ehrlich]
Thiruvananthapuram, May 24 : The Pinarayi Vijayan cabinet on Friday decided to recommend to Governor Arif Mohammed Khan that a fresh session of the Kerala Legislative Assembly be convened on June 10.

The session will be held immediately after the Lok Sabha poll results are announced on June 4.

The Assembly session is expected to be stormy, in view of several political issues the government is confronting.

The Congress-led opposition has enough material on the alleged corruption case involving Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayanas daughter Veena Vijayan.

Incidentally, this issue was first raked up in the Assembly by first-time Congress legislator Mathew Kuzhalnaden in 2023 and has now snowballed into a big controversy with the ED, SFIO and Registrar of Companies probing.

The Congress-led opposition is also getting ready to expose the grave financial position of the state as for the past few months, the economy has been propped up by the borrowings made by the Vijayan government.

Another issue that the opposition will raise is the massive loss of crops suffered due to the weather vagaries -- unexpected heatwave in March and April followed by heavy summer rain.
Mumbai, May 24 : Actor Dheeraj Dhoopar, who is known for 'Sasural Simar Ka' and 'Kundali Bhagya', has issued a clarification on his son Zayn making a screen debut.

Recently, the actor's son Zayn was seen on the sets of his show 'Rab Se Hai Dua'. Zayn wanted to be with his father so the makers rolled the camera keeping Zayn out of the frame.

Putting speculation about his son's acting debut to rest, Dheeraj Dhoopar told IANS: "I have been getting loads of calls and messages about Zayn making his debut in acting with my show 'Rab Se Hai Dua'. It's truly overwhelming to experience something like this. But sorry to say that he has not made his debut."

The actor said that his son happened to visit the set to meet him and they were towards the end of the shoot.

The actor said: "He wanted to be with me and wanted to stay close. So we decided to let him hold my hand and complete the scene without him being seen in the frame. One of the crew members had taken the video and I decided to share it, which created this whole buzz about his acting debut."
Kolkata, May 24 : The police have finally registered an FIR against 25 Trinamool Congress workers in Nandigram in West Bengal's East Midnapore district in connection with the brutal murder of woman BJP activist Rotibala Ari, said sources here on Friday.

Ari was murdered there on Thursday morning. The district police sources said the FIR has been registered based on a complaint filed by Manju Ari, the daughter of the deceased woman.

Manju has named these 25 ruling party workers. It is learnt that many of these Trinamool workers have escaped from the area after the attack on the BJP activists in which a woman was killed and seven others were injured.

The 25 Trinamool Congress workers named in the FIR include local heavyweight names like Sheikh Sufian, Sheikh Allahrazi, Khokon Shit and Debu Roy, among others.

Local people said that many of those named in the FIR started leaving the area after the local people started protesting there on Thursday morning by blocking roads and burning tyres. Even some of the shops owned by the ruling Trinamool Congress there were burnt down by the protesters. A huge police contingent present there had to resort to a lathi charge to bring the situation under control.

Meanwhile, tension is continuing to prevail in Nandigram, especially at the epicentre of Sonachura area, where the murder of the woman BJP activist took place.

The Leader of Opposition in West Bengal and the party legislator from Nandigram, Suvendu Adhikari accused the local police of making attempts to shield the accused in the case.

He said that the inspector-in-charge of the local police station had meetings with some of the accused after the incident took place.

Nandigram is one of the seven Assembly constituencies under the Tamluk Lok Sabha seat, one of the eight constituencies from the state that is going to the polls in the sixth phase on Saturday. BJPas candidate from Tamluk this time is the former judge of Calcutta High Court Abhijit Gangopadhyay.
Mandi, May 24 : Revealing that he often talks to the Tibetan spiritual leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that the Congress party was so "timid" that it was afraid to even take the name of the Dalai Lama.

"I often talk to the Dalai Lama," he said while addressing a public meeting in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi parliamentary constituency organised in support of the BJP candidate Kangana Ranaut.

The actress-turned-politician has been pitted against Congress legislator Vikramaditya Singh, the scion of the erstwhile royal family and son of Virbhadra Singh.

"India is the country of Buddha and the Modi government has vigorously promoted this heritage," the PM mentioned while highlighting places of Buddhism in the state.

Interestingly, the Prime Minister's assertion comes just hours after state Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu had an audience with the 14th Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamshala. The Buddhist spiritual leader's office later told IANS that the Chief Minister had paid a "courtesy call on His Holiness".

The sprawling Mandi parliamentary constituency is one of the toughest and covers almost two-thirds of the state. The seat includes Kullu, Mandi and some areas of Chamba and Shimla districts, besides the tribal-dominated Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, which are dominated by the Buddhists.

Political observers say that PM Modi's reference to Buddhism in his speech comes in the wake of this week's protest against Kangana Ranaut in the Buddhist-dominated Kaza (Lahaul-Spiti) over her recent purported tweet featuring the Dalai Lama. She had later apologised for it, saying that the action wasn't meant to hurt anyone.

In his address, the Prime Minister said that it was the BJP which had ended the 500-year wait by building the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

"This was possible only because of your one vote. It is the strength of your one vote that ended the wait of 500 years," he said.

Slamming the Congress leaders for their comments on Kangana Ranaut, PM Modi said that the party indulges in regressive policies and divisive politics.

"The Congress has not yet arrived in the 21st century. While people progress, Congress moves in the opposite direction. It's heading back to the 20th century. The Congress royal family is staunchly against daughters. The entire Congress is vehemently anti-women and its leaders said such vile things about Kangana. Do you accept this disrespect?" PM Modi asked the crowd.

He also gave an assurance of providing an open and safe environment to Himachal's women so that they can achieve bigger goals in life.

PM Modi called upon the people to reject the Congress party's "outdated ideology" and support the BJP in the upcoming elections.

"The Congress is ruining Himachal. It is necessary to stop it. I need your support to remove Himachal from the clutches of Congress," he said.

Besides Mandi, Himachal Pradesh's other three parliamentary constituencies - Shimla (reserved), Kangra and Hamirpur - will go to the polls on June 1.
New Delhi, May 24 : The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which comes under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, on Friday warned users of vulnerabilities in Google Chrome and Siemens products, which could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system.

The affected software in Google Chrome includes -- Chrome versions prior to 125.0.6422.112/.113 for Windows and Mac and versions before 125.0.6422.112 for Linux.

The affected Siemens products include -- Parasolid, SIMATIC RTLS, Simcenter Nastran, SIMATIC CN 4100, RUGGEDCOM, Solid Edge, Teamcenter Visualisation, JT2Go, CPC80, CPCI85, and six more.

"A vulnerability has been reported in Google Chrome for Desktop which could be exploited by a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system," said the CERT-In advisory.

The 'Remote Code Execution' vulnerability exists in Google Chrome for Desktop due to the 'Type Confusion' flaw in V8. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted request.

Moreover, the cyber agency said that the multiple vulnerabilities reported in Siemens Products could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges or perform denial of service (DoS) conditions on the targeted system.

The agency suggested users apply appropriate security updates as mentioned by the companies.
Tel Aviv, May 24 : Two days after Spain announced its intention to recognise an independent state of Palestine, Israel has imposed restrictions on the work of Spanish diplomats in the country.

The Spanish Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Spanish Consulate General in East Jerusalem will in future be prohibited from offering their services to Palestinians from West Bank, Foreign Minister Israel Katz posted on the social media platform X on Friday.

Katz justified the measure by pointing to a statement by Spain's Deputy Prime Minister, Yolanda Diaz, which he categorised as anti-Semitic.

"In response to Spain's recognition of a Palestinian state and the anti-Semitic call by Spain's deputy prime minister to not just recognise a Palestinian state but to 'liberate Palestine from the river to the sea', I have decided to sever the connection between Spain's representation in Israel and the Palestinians," he wrote.

In a speech shared on X, Diaz used the controversial slogan, "Palestine will be free from the river to the sea."

It suggests that there should be a free Palestine in an area from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea - which includes the area where Israel is located.

Diaz belongs to the left-wing electoral alliance Sumar, a junior coalition partner of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Spain, Ireland and Norway announced on Wednesday that they plan to recognise an independent Palestinian state at the end of May. Israel reacted with indignation to these announcements.

--IANS/DPA

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New Delhi, May 24 : A court here on Friday sent Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar, who is accused of assaulting AAP Rajya Sabha member and former DCW chief Swati Maliwal, to four-day judicial custody.

Produced before the court on the expiry of his five-day police custody, he was sent to judicial custody till May 28.

Bibhav Kumar was arrested on May 18 in connection with the assault on Maliwal on May 13 and produced late at night before a local court which sent him to five days police custody.

During this period, he was also taken to the CM's residence where the crime scene was recreated. Bibhav Kumar was taken to three locations in Mumbai, said police sources privy to the probe. "Kumar had formatted his phone on one of the locations, which was revealed after technical investigation," said the source.

According to police, he had formatted his phone on May 17, citing a malfunction.

Delhi Police registered a case against Kumar after he allegedly assaulted Maliwal at the Chief Minister's residence. The FIR at the Civil Lines police station includes charges under Sections 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 341 (wrongful restraint), 354(B) (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 509 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code.
Will file defamation suit: Telangana minister denies BRS allegations of hand in murders. Image Source: IANS News

Hyderabad, May 24 : Telangana's Excise Minister, Jupally Krishna Rao has denied the accusations of murder made against him by Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) over the killings of two of its party functionaries in the last four months.

Jupally Krishna Rao on Friday termed baseless, the allegations made by BRS leaders and threatened to file a defamation case if they repeat their allegations.

He reacted strongly to the charges by BRS leaders against him after the murder of BRS worker Sridhar Reddy on Thursday in Jupally Krishna Rao's constituency Kollapur.

Jupally Krishna Rao said it was unfortunate that BRS leaders were pursuing politics of murder.

The minister alleged the deceased Sridhar Reddy was involved in several disputes, including a property dispute with his family members.

Stating that BRS Working President, KT Rama Rao and the party's Nagarkurnool Lok Sabha candidate, RS Praveen Kumar, were making baseless allegations against him, the minister demanded an apology from them.

He said the BRS leaders developed a grudge against him ever since he quit BRS to join the Congress and hence were accusing him of involvement in the murders.

He also claimed that Sridhar Reddy had no political links and was merely a follower of a former MLA.

He said several families had suffered due to Sridhar Reddy's activities.

"When our workers died in the past, I made no allegation. It's not proper to link murders to politics," he said.

He wondered how KT Rama Rao could speak without gathering details about the case.

He said even the earlier murder was related to a land dispute and he got a clean chit after similar allegations were levelled against him.

The minister said that he has no problem if a judicial probe is ordered into Sridhar Reddy's murder.

KT Rama Rao had on Thursday demanded dismissal of the minister from the Cabinet over the killings of two BRS functionaries in Kollapur constituency within four months.

The BRS leader visited Kollapur and paid tributes to Sridhar Reddy.

He accused the Congress of fostering a culture of political murders in Telangana.
Varanasi : , May 24 (IANS) A letter written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reaching around 2,000 eminent personalities in Varanasi with an appeal to vote on June 1 and also support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Prime Minister is seeking renomination from Varanasi, which will go to the polls in the seventh and final phase on June 1.

The letter from PM Modi has already been received by over 500 persons, including artistes, BHU professors, doctors, and prominent businessmen of the district. BJP workers are going to people's homes to hand over the letter to them.

In the letter, the Prime Minister says that he finds himself connected to the pride and spirituality of Kashi.

The main message in the letter reads: "Bring your family members and organisation people to the booth on June 1. I have done whatever I can with the blessings of Baba Vishwanath, but a lot more remains to be done. This election is special in many ways."

The Prime Minister also sought the support of the people of Kashi as an MP and son.
Panaji, May 24 : A day after two pharma companies in Goa cancelled walk-in interviews scheduled in neighbouring state Maharashtra, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday said that state youths should get permanent jobs and if needed, current policy will be amended.

Past two days, opposition parties in Goa attacked the BJP government as two top pharmaceutical companies having their plants in Goa tried to recruit candidates from Maharashtra. However, as the pressure grew, the pharma companies cancelled the interviews scheduled this week in Maharashtra.

Speaking to media persons here, CM Sawant said that his government is aware of the issue and the pharmaceutical companies officials are asked to come to his office for discussion.

"My office had told them to withdraw (cancel interviews). I have asked them to meet me. Our intention is clear that Goan youth should get jobs and that too permanent, not temporary. It is not accepted that youths will be sacked whenever the companies want. If needed to amend the existing policy then we will do it in the forthcoming assembly session," Sawant said.

Reacting to the recruitment advertisement, Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai said that ignoring the youths of Goa in their state is outrageous.

"Walk-in interviews to be held in Maharashtra, for two pharma plants in Goa is a deliberate attempt to avoid hiring Goans, and an affront to Goa. This is being allowed to happen when Goa's unemployment rate is higher than the national average," Sardesai said.

"I had warned the government of pharma companies engaging in such deviousness, both in the Assembly and outside, and was assured of strict action. I want Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to immediately intervene, and stand up for youths of Goa running from pillar to post in search of jobs. If Goans do not benefit from industries in Goa, why have them here?" he questioned.

"I demand the enforcement of the proposed 80 per cent job reservation for Goans in the private sector. Simultaneously, and urgently, I demand that the government invest in enhancing the skills and employability of our youth," Sardesai said.

The Revolutionary Goans Party and Congress party had also raised the issue targeting the BJP government.
Bengaluru, May 24 : Flipkart on Friday announced to add Google as a minority investor in the e-commerce platform as part of the latest funding round led by Walmart.

The move, coming at a time when the Indian digital economy is growing at a much faster pace, is subject to receipt of regulatory and other customary approvals by both parties, the homegrown e-commerce firm said in a statement.

"Google's proposed investment and its Cloud collaboration will help Flipkart expand its business and advance the modernisation of its digital infrastructure to serve customers across the country," said the homegrown company.

Established in 2007, Flipkart has enabled millions of sellers, merchants, and small businesses to participate in India's digital commerce revolution.

Currently, it has a registered user base of more than 500 million and the marketplace offers over 150 million products across more than 80 categories.

According to the company, there are over 1.4 million sellers on the platform, including Shopsy sellers.

Earlier this week, the e-commerce platform said it has clocked 1.6 times growth (year-on-year) in its grocery business.

The company has launched 16 grocery fulfillment centres across key locations in the country.
Jaipur, May 24 : A college student allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself in his hostel room in Jaipur, police said on Friday.

The deceased was identified as Akshay Prajapat (21), son of Radheshyam, resident of Jhunjhunu.

SHO (Ramnagariya) Arun Kumar said Akshay, a first-year B.Sc. student at Vivekananda Global University, Jagatpura, was living with his room partner in the college hostel.

On Thursday night, Akshay's roommate went to another friend's place. However, when the room partner returned at around 10 a.m. on Friday, the room's gate did not open.

He called other students from the hostel who broke open the door and found Akshay's body hanging following which the college administration and police were informed.

Ramnagariya police station has kept the body in the mortuary of JNU Hospital for post-mortem.

No suicide note has been found, police said.
Kolkata, May 24 : The Calcutta High Court on Friday put an interim stay on police action at the residence-cum-office of the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari till June 10.

Following a late-night police raid at Suvendu Adhikari's rented house in Kolaghat in East Midnapore District on Tuesday, the LoP approached the Calcutta High Court against that.

In his petition he also alleged that the police raid was conducted without proper warrants or related documents.

The police claimed they searched the place as they were hunting for a miscreant who was absconding in a case and were not aware that Suvendu Adhikari rented the place.

After a detailed hearing on Friday, the single-Judge Bench of Justice Amrita Sinha finally ordered an interim stay on police action there till June 10.

However, Justice Sinha also directed that in case of emergency, the police could approach the court.

During the hearing, Suvendu Adhikari's counsel argued that the police action was a deliberate move to harass the LoP amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

However, the state government's counsel said that the police action that night was in a different case and the cops were not aware that Suvendu Adhikari had rented the place.

During the hearing Justice Sinha observed that it was strange that the police in this case went to the place in the wee hours after getting a complaint and without proper investigation.

"On how many occasions does the police act so promptly?" she questioned.

The police action gained significance after Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, raised the issue in an election meeting in the state on May 22, where he said that the fear of defeat had made West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee desperate.

"When central agencies raided the residence of a leader of Trinamool Congress a massive amount of Rs 51 crore was recovered. But the police raid at Adhikari's house did not result in recovery of even 25 paise. So I am asking the Chief Minister to refrain from misusing the state police. Else the people of West Bengal will give you a fitting reply," the Union Home Minister said.
New Delhi, May 24 : ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, focusing on the 'Mobility and Intelligent Transportation' (MInT), which has a goal of building the Bharat Multi-Modal Mobility Stack (BM3S).

The BM3S is a first-of-its-kind global digital infrastructure platform for sustainable and intelligent transportation.

"This collaboration with IITM is a definitive step towards addressing the challenges of modern mobility. BM3S has the potential to revolutionise how we approach transportation, in India and the world," P. Kaniappan, MD, ZF Commercial Vehicle, said in a statement.

According to the company, with a focus on safety, sustainability, and equity, BM3S will pave the way for significant advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and intelligent transportation systems.

It aims to seamlessly integrate data streams, payment systems, vehicle technologies, and digital twin models.

"We have multiple centres working in the area of mobility and digital technologies. The MInT collaborative and this partnership with ZF, a global leader in mobility products and solutions, will help accelerate mobility research to practice," said Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean of Industrial Consulting and Sponsored Research, IIT Madras.

In addition, the company mentioned that this partnership aims to co-create a digital platform that will drive the development of holistic system solutions aligned with the UNas Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mumbai, May 24 : The winner of 'Bigg Boss 15', Tejasswi Prakash, set Instagram on fire on Friday with a video of her photoshoot in a shimmery golden strappy dress, wet hair, and glossy makeup.

The 'Naagin 6' actress dropped a Reel on Instagram in which she can be seen posing sensually in a golden dress. The look was accentuated by glam makeup -- pink glossy lips, winged eyeliner, and highlighted face.

She opted for a wet hairstyle, keeping her tresses open. The look was rounded off with golden earrings.

"When the days are made of colour, I choose the golden hour," Tejasswi captioned the post.

Tejasswi is known for her work in 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 10', Karn Sangini', and 'Pehredaar Piya Ki', among others.
Patna, May 24 : Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, on Friday said that Naxalism would resurface in Bihar if the CPI(ML) won Lok Sabha elections in the state.

The CPI(ML) is contesting in the three Lok Sabha constituencies of Arrah, Karakat and Nalanda as an ally of the Grand Alliance in Bihar.

While addressing a rally in Ramna ground in Arrah city in Bihar on Friday, HM Shah said, "Lalu Prasad Yadav has fielded CPI(ML) in Arrah and if its candidate wins even by mistake then Naxalism will resurface and bullets will be fired again."

"I want to ask the people of Arrah if they want farmlands to be occupied, kidnapping, and looting here. If the CPI(ML) wins, all this will happen here again," HM Shah said.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Naxalism was wiped out from Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

"I want to appeal to the people to give us more than 400 seats in the Lok Sabha and we will finish Naxalism in Chhattisgarh too in the third term of the Modi government," he said.

He also targeted the RJD, Congress and TMC on the OBC quota issue.

"The Congress, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Mamata Banerjee want to cut the quota of the OBCs and give it to the Muslims.

"The Congress has given 5 per cent reservation to Muslims in Karnataka and 4 per cent in Telangana and Mamata Banerjee added many Muslim castes to the OBC category. On Thursday, the Kolkata High Court cancelled this illegal reservation in West Bengal. I want to tell you that as long as PM Modi and the BJP are there, we will not let the quota for Dalits, backwards and tribals to be touched. If this 'Ghamandia Gathbandhan' comes back, then all the schemes running for the poor will stop," he claimed.

"I want to ask you, whether you want Lalu Prasad Yadav's Jungle Raj or Narendra Modi's Garib Kalyan? The Congress and Lalu Prasad Yadav asked us not to talk about Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) as Pakistan has a Nuclear bomb.

"I want to tell Lalu Prasad Yadav and his alliance that we are BJP people, we are not afraid of Pakistan's Nuclear bomb. PoK is ours, it will remain ours and we will take it. This is BJP's resolution," he said.

He also claimed that the NDA had already bagged more than 300 seats in the first five phases of polling in India.

"Tomorrow is the sixth phase of elections. Do you want the result of five phases? I tell you that the NDA under the leadership of PM Modi has achieved 310 seats after five phases and will form the government at the Centre.

"The combination of Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rahul Gandhi is completely wiped out. This time, the INDIA bloc will not even open its account in Bihar," he said.

The polling in Arrah will be held in the seventh phase on June 1.
Ottawa, May 24 : A fresh Canadian government report says that students from India were more likely to live in unsuitable housing than their counterparts from other countries.

According to the report released by Statistics Canada using the most recent census data, international students were more likely to live in unsuitable housing in 2021 than Canadian-born students.

In the top 10 municipalities with the largest number of international students, 25 to 63 per cent of them were living in unsuitable housing, the report said.

By comparison, the rate of students living in unsuitable housing was 13 to 45 percentage points lower among Canadian-born students aged 18 to 24, the Canadian Press reported on Thursday.

One of the requirements for suitable housing was that adults should have their own bedroom if they are not part of a couple.

The report also found that country of origin accounted for most of the variations between municipalities in rates of housing suitability among international students.

"Notably, Indian students were more likely to live in unsuitable housing than students from other countries. In Brampton, Ontario, and Surrey, the municipalities with the largest proportions of Indian students, more than 60 per cent of international students were living in unsuitable housing," the Canadian national news agency said citing the report.

Canada has been a major destination for many Indian students for the past few years. Among the international students, those from India constituted the largest national cohort, comprising 37 per cent of the 579,075 permits issued until November 2023.

The surge in the number of Indian students studying in Canada has been substantial over the past five years, rising from 107,070 in 2018 to the current figures.

The Statistics Canada report comes amid reports of many Indian students in Canada's Prince Edward Island facing deportation due to the recent changes in the province's immigration rules.

Observers say that Indian students in Canada have been facing increased hostility and discrimination in recent days.

Studying in Canada used to be considered a rewarding experience for many Indian students in the past. However, this perception has changed as the Canadian federal and provincial provinces are creating an unsafe and hostile environment for international students in general, and Indian students in particular.

Prince Edward Island (PEI) in Canada is a case in point. The smallest province in the country has introduced a policy of reducing 25 per cent immigration permits, triggering protests by Indian students earlier this week.

As a result of this policy change, hundreds of Indian students have faced deportation. Also, the reduction of work permits has resulted in frustration and tension among Indian immigrants who arrived in PEI on temporary work permits. They argue they should be allowed to stay permanently.

However, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said that it was not aware of Indian students' deportation from the Canadian province.

"A large number of students have gone to Canada to study. The figure is pretty significant. But we haven't come across several students facing deportation... We do not have any updates on that. We are not aware. There may be one case here or one case there. But we don't see any major problem as far as students in Canada are concerned," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said last week.

In 2023, a survey done by the Canadian Association of University Teachers also found that 40 per cent of Indian students in Canada reported discrimination.

The diplomatic tensions between both countries over the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardip Singh Nijjar in British Columbia's Surrey have further exacerbated the issue.
Hyderabad, May 24 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) has accorded permission to the Telangana government for organising State Formation Day celebrations on June 2.

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari held a meeting with senior officials on Friday to review the arrangements to be made for the State Formation Day celebrations at Parade Grounds, Secunderabad.

With the ECI giving permission to the government, the Chief Secretary instructed the officials to make elaborate arrangements in a befitting manner.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will first visit Gun Park and pay tributes to the martyrs at the Telangana Amaraveerula Stupam or martyrs' memorial. He will then proceed to the Parade Grounds for the main ceremony.

As the state is set to complete 10 years of its formation, the State Cabinet at its meeting on May 20 decided to organise the celebrations on a grand scale.

The meeting decided to felicitate senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in recognition of her key role in the formation of the state.

However, a confirmation of Sonia Gandhi's participation in the event is still awaited.

In view of the model code of conduct for Lok Sabha elections, the government had written to the ECI, seeking permission to organise celebrations.

The government also plans to felicitate all those who worked for the formation of the state.

Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary during the meeting to review arrangements for the June 2 celebrations directed the police department to prepare traffic route map while assigning alighting /pick up points and parking places and make arrangements accordingly duly providing signage at vantage points.

The police department was also told to regulate the movement of dignitaries by designating pick-up points to ensure smooth and timely departure to avoid unnecessary delay at the time of leaving the venue.

The R&B department was also directed to provide barricading and arrange shamiyanas/shade to ensure that people are not exposed to the sun.

GHMC officials were told to ensure cleaning, levelling, watering, maintenance of sanitary and hygienic conditions at the venue and arrange decorative flags.

The Chief Secretary also directed the cultural department to ensure the participation of artists befitting a carnival atmosphere.

The energy department was told to ensure an uninterrupted power supply duly keeping stand-by team at the venue. All the departments were told to work in coordination and organise the function in a grand manner.
Mumbai, May 24 : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 3,10,000 on Hero FinCorp Limited for breach of norms related to the fair practices code for NBFCs.

An RBI inspection has revealed that Hero FinCorp did not convey the terms and conditions of loans in writing to the borrowers in the vernacular language understood by them.

The statutory inspection of the company was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023.

Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the directions.

After considering the company's reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and examination of additional submissions made by it, the RBI found, inter alia, that the charge against the company was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty.

The RBI also said: "This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the company with its customers."
Chandigarh, May 24 : Congress in charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, on Friday asserted the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc was headed for a clear and decisive mandate in the Lok Sabha polls.

Ramesh told the media here that trends from the first two phases had established that the INDIA bloc was set to form the government at the Centre, and cited how Prime Minister Narendra Modias language has changed since April 19 and he started communalising his election strategy turning everything into a Hindu-Muslim issue.

The Congress General Secretary said the feedback from different states, where the party had fared badly in 2019, was quite encouraging and it was doing very well this time. He said history was repeating itself after 20 years. He said just like the Congress-led alliance stormed to power in 2004, it would storm to power this time also.

As regards the appointment of the Prime Minister, he said once the INDIA bloc gets a majority, the Prime Minister will be appointed within days. He said in 2004 it took three days to appoint Manmohan Singh and this time, it may take even less than that.

Besides, he pointed out that in India, it is the party or the alliance which wins the elections, not an individual. He said in a parliamentary democracy like India, elections are not individual-centric.

Ramesh reaffirmed aPaanch Nyaya -- justice for farmers, youth, labourers, women and proportionate representation, with five guarantees each for every aNyaya. He said the Congress has guaranteed in its manifesto that the MSP (minimum support price) will have a legal status, besides, farmersa loans will be waived off.
Islamabad, May 24 : Thousands of heatstroke victims were being treated at hospitals across Pakistan on Friday as temperatures reached 50 degrees Celsius amid a blazing heatwave, officials said.

The heat gripped the South Asian country for a fourth day and was likely to last for another week, government climate change chief Romina Alam said.

The temperatures could touch 51 degrees on Saturday, the country's chief metrologist Sardar Sarfraz said.

In the southern province of Sindh, ambulances rushed people to hospitals and temporary heat relief camps in all major cities, local official Shah Zaman said.

"We have treated thousands and more influx is coming in," said doctor Tahir Farooq at a hospital in the city of Dadu, where the temperature hit 50.

"It is like living a literal hell. You feel like walking on burning coals as you step out in the sun," said Zeeshan Khan Shani, a rickshaw driver in Dadu.

"It is unbearable. I'm worried about my daughters. They can faint anytime," said Asif Shakoor, a mother in the eastern city of Lahore.

The Pakistani government last week ordered the temporary closure of schools, postponed exams, and declared emergencies at hospitals as the heatwave, the first of this summer, started.

Authorities said the temperatures were hovering up to eight degrees Celsius higher than their normal level at this time of the summer and cited climate change as the reason.

Hundreds of people are killed in Pakistan every year in climate-induced disasters while thousands lose their habitat and livelihood in a country that contributes little to global carbon emissions.

--IANS/DPA

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New Delhi, May 24 : As the Indian e-commerce space heats up with a spurt in the digital economy, Google has invested nearly $350 million in Walmart-owned Flipkart, taking the homegrown company's valuation at nearly $36 billion.

New Delhi, May 24 (IANS) As the Indian e-commerce space heats up with a spurt in the digital economy, Google has invested nearly $350 million in Walmart-owned Flipkart, taking the homegrown companyas valuation at nearly $36 billion.

In a statement, Flipkart said it has added Google as a "minority investor" in the e-commerce platform as part of the latest funding round led by Walmart.

The company, however, did not disclose the financial details.

The move, coming at a time when the Indian digital economy is growing at a much faster pace, is subject to receipt of regulatory and other customary approvals by both parties, the homegrown e-commerce firm said in a statement.

"Google's proposed investment and its Cloud collaboration will help Flipkart expand its business and advance the modernisation of its digital infrastructure to serve customers across the country," it said.

Established in 2007, Flipkart has enabled millions of sellers, merchants, and small businesses to participate in India's digital commerce revolution. Currently, it has a registered user base of more than 500 million and the marketplace offers over 150 million products across more than 80 categories.

According to the company, there are over 1.4 million sellers on the platform, including Shopsy sellers.

Earlier this week, the e-commerce platform said it has clocked 1.6 times growth (year-on-year) in its grocery business. The company has launched 16 grocery fulfilment centres across key locations in the country.
Berlin, May 24 : German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Friday that his government has no plans to officially recognise a Palestinian state.

There is "no reason" to recognise the Palestinian Authority (PA) as a separate state, Scholz said on Friday at a press conference alongside Portuguese Prime Minister LuAs Montenegro.

"There is no clarity about the territory of the state, about all other issues related to it," Scholz said. He suggested that matters were "not yet that far."

Scholz argued that "a negotiated solution between Israel and the Palestinians that amounts to a two-state solution" with a Palestinian Authority responsible for both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip is needed instead.

"But we're still a long way off that," Scholz said.

What is important now is "to achieve a long-term ceasefire" and "for all parties to commit to the two-state solution," Scholz said.

Ireland, Spain and Norway all announced plans to formally recognise a Palestinian state by the end of the month, a move that was met with fury from the right-wing government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Montenegro said that Portugal will not be taking this step for the time being, although he noted that his country had voted in favour of recognising Palestine as a full member of the United Nations General Assembly.

Scholz on Friday said that it has become clear in recent weeks that Arab countries are working hard to ensure security in the Middle East region, which the German chancellor contended should give hope for a possible two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

However, a path of "symbolic recognition of statehood" would not lead things any further, Scholz said.

--IANS/DPA

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Seoul, May 24 : South Korea's military has detected suspected signs of North Korea making preparations to launch a military spy satellite, an official said on Friday.

In December, Pyongyang vowed to launch three more spy satellites this year, a month after successfully placing its first one into orbit, Yonhap News Agency reported.

South Korea's Defence Minister Shin Won-sik told reporters earlier this year that the North's Malligyong-1 spy satellite appears to be orbiting Earth without activity.

"As apparent signs of preparations for the launch of North Korea's purported military spy satellite have recently been detected in the Tongchang-ri area, South Korean and U.S. intelligence authorities are closely monitoring and tracking related activities," the Joint Chiefs of Staff official said.

The North staged all three of its launches last year from its satellite launch station in Tongchang-ri in the northwestern province of North Pyongan.

While the military has continuously detected activities of personnel, vehicles and equipment at the launch site, they have apparently grown larger in scale recently, reports Yonhap News Agency.

Equipment used to measure and assess the launch trajectory of a space rocket is said to have been detected at the site.

The military has currently strengthened surveillance and monitoring of the area, with preparations being made to intercept the North's launch vehicle if it enters South Korean airspace, the official said.

If the North presses ahead with a launch, it is expected to notify Japan of its schedule as it did prior to all three of its satellite launches last year.

The suspected preparations come as the leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will hold a trilateral summit in Seoul on Monday for the first time in 4 1/2 years, spawning speculation the North could time the launch to coincide with the meeting to maximize its political impact.

South Korea, the United States and others have condemned the North's space rocket launches, calling them violations of U.N. Security Council resolutions banning it from ballistic missile launches, as they use the same technologies.
New Delhi, May 24 : The Supreme Court on Friday stayed an order passed by the Uttarakhand High Court directing the Chief Secretary of the state to identify the "best suitable land" for shifting the high court premises outside Nainital.

Issuing a notice on a plea filed by the high court bar association, a bench presided over by Justice P.S. Narasimha sought the response of the state government and others in the matter.

In the meantime, the impugned decision of the high court will not be given effect, ordered the bench, also comprising Justice Sanjoy Karol.

The matter will be taken up for further hearing post the summer vacations.

In its order, the Uttarakhand High Court had asked the Chief Secretary to complete the entire exercise of locating the land within a month and submit her report to the court by June 7.

The high court noted that Nainital is a well-known tourist destination where traffic congestion is one of the biggest problems facing the city.

"There is no private nursing home in Nainital and in emergency situations, there is no medical facility... This court also gets information that one of the well practising lawyers of this court, Paresh Tripathi, died due to lack of medical facilities," it said.

In September 2022, the Full Court resolved to shift the high court from Nainital. After the passing of the resolution, land was identified at Golapur in Haldwani for shifting the high court.

A bench of Chief Justice Ritu Bahri and Justice Rakesh Thapliyal said, "Land identified at Golapur in Haldwani, measuring about 26 hectares, is surrounded by dense forest, which is 75 per cent of the land earmarked for the establishment of the high court. So this court does not want to uproot any of the trees to make a new high court."

"We also want that the high court should be established at a new location so that there will be no need to shift it again in the next 50 years," it added.
New Delhi, May 24 : Adarsh Shastri, a former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator, on Friday hit out at the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government over the brazen assault of the party's serving Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal inside the Chief Minister's residence and rued that a party which once boasted about women empowerment has stooped to a level, where women are harassed and tormented at the highest level.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Adarsh Shastri, grandson of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri came down heavily on the Delhi Chief Minister over his deafening silence on the Maliwal episode and also his personal Secretary Bibhav Kumar for first staying mum on the controversy and then deploying party's 'troll army' to back the CM's aide, rather than ensuring justice for former DCW chief.

"It's beyond comprehension how Swati Maliwal was punched and thrashed inside the Chief Minister's residence. And, more baffling is Arvind Kejriwal's silence on the issue and AAP brass rallying behind CM's aide rather than seeking justice for the woman MP," he said.

He said that Kejriwal's PA Bibhav Kumar was not a commoner and rather wielded immense influence in the CM's office.

"Bibhav served as the gatekeeper of CM house, he decided who would meet Kejriwal, what would be the agenda of discussion and more," he said while claiming that he did not know him personally.

Sharing his experience on his brief stint with the AAP, Adarsh Shastri said Arvind Kejriwal is like a megalomaniac, with a habit of self-eulogy and a penchant for looking down upon others.

"Kejriwal exhibits megalomaniac symptoms, more than often. He thinks meeting party legislators or public representatives below is dignity," he told IANS.

On queries of whether Sunita Kejriwal's 'uncomforting equations' with Maliwal led to the Rajya Sabha MP's assault inside the CM's house, he said that he did not know about any resentment between the two but Kejriwal must be aware of the incident what happened inside his residence.

He further blamed Kejriwal dispensation for not doing enough for security of women in capital and also pointed out that the party failed to utilise Nirbhaya Fund.

He also blamed party convenor Arvind Kejriwal for 'exodus of top leaders and founding members' from the party.

"The one reason why founding members parted ways with the AAP is because of Kejriwal's double standards and doublespeak on multiple issues," he said on a closing note.

Notably, Adarsh Shastri is currently a leader of the Congress.
New Delhi, May 24 : "Will this 'magical' ode to nocturnal Mumbai win the Palme d'Or?"

The question asked by the BBC's reviewer, Nicholas Barber, after watching Payal Kapadia's debut feature film, 'All We Imagine As Light', must have been uppermost in the minds of an audience that gave the film's cast and crew an eight-minute standing ovation.

In the Cannes tradition, the longer the applause, the better the chances of the film returning home with a trophy. The longest applause thus far at the festival has been for nine minutes and 30 seconds for the Italian auteur Paolo Sorrentino's 'Parthenope', where Gary Oldman plays the American writer John Cheever.

In a video now circulating of the moment after the film's screening, in fact, shows one of the cast members, Hridu Haroon, asking, "The applause has been going on for too long. Shouldn't it stop?"

The video shows the cast members soaking in their eight minutes of fame and hugging each other heartily, unable to contain their joy.

Kani Kusruti, whom viewers outside Kerala know better for playing the private secretary of Huma Qureshi's character in the OTT series 'Maharani', followed in the footsteps of Cate Blanchett and Leila Bekhri and showed her solidarity for the Palestinian people's struggle, flaunting her watermelon clutch and flashing a 'V' sign.

The colours of the watermelon -- deep green and red -- are those of the Palestinian flag.

As noted by News Minute, the watermelon became a symbol of Palestinian resistance in 1967 after Israel militarily seized control of the West Bank and Gaza, and annexed East Jerusalem. And to circumvent the Israeli government's ban on the Palestinian flag being displayed anywhere in Gaza and the West Bank, people started using watermelons.

Chhaya Kadam, another cast member who has become everyone's favourite railway platform feminist after her stellar performance in 'Laapataa Ladies', sported an oversized 'nath' on her nose as a tribute to the traditions of her home state Maharashtra.

The BBC, meanwhile, does not stint on its praise for the film and goes on to note: "Given that the Competition jury is chaired by Greta Gerwig, and this warm, female-led film resembles her own work in certain ways, 'All We Imagine as Light' could well be a winner when the Festival's prizes are announced on Saturday evening."

And it predicts with a degree of certainty: "Whether Kapadia takes home a trophy or not, 'All We Imagine As Light' is bound to be one of those international films that break out of the art-house festival circuit and into cinemas and hearts everywhere."

Payal Kapadia is no stranger to Cannes glory. In 2021, her documentary feature, 'A Night of Knowing Nothing', won the L'Oeil d'Or, an award given every year since 2015 to the best in the category. Now, it's the Palme d'Or that beckons. Will she come back home with it?

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 24 : A court on Friday granted the Delhi Police 13 days more to complete its probe in the December 13, 2023 Parliament security breach case - the third extension so far.

On March 11, the court gave the Delhi Police Special Cell 45 days to conclude the probe, and on April 25, 30 days more.

The latest extension came on an application by the Delhi Police, who originally sought a three-month extension to complete their probe. Additional Sessions, Patiala House Courts, Judge Hardeep Kaur granted the extension after police claimed that certain reports were awaited and digital data was voluminous.

All the six accused - Neelam Azad, Manoranjan D., Sagar Sharma, Lalit Jha, Amol Shinde, and Mahesh Kumawat - are in judicial custody.

Manoranjan D. and Sharma had burst yellow smoke canisters inside the Lok Sabha chamber on December 13, the 22nd anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack, after jumping down from the visitorsa gallery before they were overpowered by the MPs present in the House. Azad and Shinde also burst smoke canisters and raised slogans outside the Parliament. Jha is believed to be the mastermind of the entire plan and had reportedly fled with the mobile phones of the four other accused persons. Kumawat was also linked to the accused.

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 24 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday derided and taunted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's prediction of June 4 'expiry' for the government and said that she was indeed speaking the truth.

Speaking exclusively to NDTV, PM Modi said: "I am Avinashi from Kashi" while replying to INDIA bloc's oft-repeated rhetoric in poll campaigns that the NDA government is on its way out after June 4.

When questioned on Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerje's statement that his government will expire soon, PM Modi laughingly said: "She is speaking the truth. As per Constitution, the tenure of this government will come to an end on June 4. We will form a new government after the elections."

When asked if she will further set a new expiry date after that, PM Modi said: "aisa hai ki main avinashi hoon ji, main Kashi ka hoon, Kashi to avinashi hai. (I am indestructible, I am from Kashi and those hailing from Kashi are indestructible)."

PM Modi also replied on a host of issues including the government's focus on tapping the untapped potential, taking along the Pasmanda Muslim community and making women equal partners in India's growth story, in the next term.

Outlining the priorities of government, he said that unlike previous regimes, his thrust is not on any particular vote bank but on making everyone a partner in the growth story and bringing prosperity to lives of all.

"We form and run the government for shaping the country's future and not for eyeing another term," PM Modi said.

Notably, the BJP had won 282 seats in the 2014 Parliamentary elections and went to better its tally to 303 in the subsequent 2019 elections.

This time, it has set itself an ambitious target of 370 on its own, as a tribute to abrogation of Article 370.

The seven-phase polling will conclude on June 1 and results would be declared by June 4.
Hyderabad, May 24 : Former BRS MLA A. Jeevan Reddy has been booked by police for allegedly grabbing a businessman's land.

Hyderabad, May 24 (IANS) Former BRS MLA A. Jeevan Reddy has been booked by police for allegedly grabbing a businessmanas land.

Chevella police registered the case against the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader on a complaint by businessman Sama Damodhar Reddy, who alleged that the former MLA and his family members grabbed his land at Erlapally village of Ranga Reddy district.

The complainant told police that he purchased 20 acres and 20 guntas of land on the outskirts of Erlapally village in 2002 and constructed a function hall. Since then he has been in possession of the land.

The businessman alleged that last year former MLA Jeevan Reddy, his wife A. Rajitha and mother A. Rajubai, who own the land adjacent to his land, occupied half of his property, demolished the function hall and constructed a new building.

The complainant said when he entered his land, D. Suresh, a watchman and aBihar, Punjab ganga members and others obstructed them and threatened them with dire consequences.

Damodhar Reddy said when he went to his land again on May 22, 2024, members of gangs from other states didn't allow him into the land and threatened him with dire consequences, brandishing deadly weapons.

Based on a complaint, the police registered a case against Jeevan Reddy under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Chevella police station under the Cyberabad police Commissionerate and took up an investigation.

Jeevan Reddy was BRS MLA from Armoor constituency in Nizamabad district. He was elected twice in 2014 and 2018 but was defeated in the November 2023 elections.
A new push for establishing a business improvement district in Uptown Butte is underway and its seemingly far more organized and focused than any previous effort in at least the past decade.

Advocates plan four informational meetings next week, door-to-door visits will follow, petition signatures will be sought in July, and if enough property owners agree to a business district, authorization would be sought from the Council of Commissioners  perhaps in August.

Organizers are using $50,000 in grants and contributions to fund their push and have hired a consultant  Missoula-based Cascadia Management Group  to assist.

Shanna Adams, co-owner of the Hotel Finlen and a district advocate, detailed the push for commissioners on Wednesday night and talked about enhancements it could fund in hopes of drawing more Uptown visitors and patrons.

Several Montana cities have a business improvement district, or BID, where owners essentially tax themselves and spend the money on maintenance, security, promotions, landscaping or other improvements in a specified area.

It can be used for crosswalks and streetscaping, pressure washing sidewalks, additional snow removal, paying for extra security, marketing and promotional efforts and numerous other things.

The proposed BID here would cover about 30 blocks in the central business district of Uptown Butte. Owners of more than 60% of the property area must support a district for one to be established.

There are 170 people who own 247 distinct parcels of business property in the proposed district  residences are not included  so getting OKs from owners of more than 60% of those parcels would be enough.

All of Montanas other larger cities  Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell and Bozeman  have BIDs, said Tracy Worley, a senior consultant with Cascadia Management Group. Hamilton also has a BID.

A BID is among goals included in an Uptown Master Plan that the Council of Commissioners adopted in 2022.

Were going to have four meetings next week  and well be doing a lot of outreach, said Adams, who helped steer the master plan effort. Its the type of thing where we need to go door-to-door and we need to talk to everybody to explain what the goals are.

If a BID is established, property owners would pay an assessment each year to fund improvements in the district. A board of business owners would oversee the district and make final spending decisions.

Under the current proposal, each owner would pay a flat $150 fee plus 0.03% of the propertys square footage plus 0.1% of the propertys taxable value. The formula would generate from $200,000 to $215,000 annually.

State law allows different methods and mixes of methods for BID assessments and they can differ from city to city.

As I looked at the different models around the state, a multifaceted approach seems to be the most equitable, Adams told commissioners. If youre just going to look at taxable value, maybe thats not totally fair across the board.

If youre just looking at square footage, then youre penalizing the bigger buildings, she said. We ran many, many scenarios and looked at what the assessments were.

Adams said organizers have detailed information on the properties and can tell each owner what their assessment would be.

Worley said that under the proposal, the assessment model would be the same for 10 years. Changes could be made during a renewal process after that, she said, and the district could be expanded if there is support.

If enough signatures are gathered, commissioners would pass a resolution of intent to create a district and anyone subject to the assessment who opposed the plan could submit written protests for consideration.

Dave Palmer had hoped to gain momentum for a BID when he was chief executive from 2017 to 2020. He said past efforts failed because different groups of business owners didnt come together.

There were concerns about who would be in charge, Palmer said in 2018, and there is mistrust about what the outcome is going to be.

He hoped a meeting in April 2018 would ultimately lead to a BID, and in a way, it planted the seeds for the current effort.

About 75 business owners gathered that night to talk about a vision plan for Uptown Butte and that led to creation of the Uptown Master Plan adopted in 2022. That plan recommended a BID and the current push is a follow-up to that.

Eric Mankins was among a few commissioners Wednesday night who thanked Adams and others for making the push. He said BID-funded enhancements would pay off and he made a direct appeal to Uptown business owners.

We need you, he said. "You will get this paid back in full once we have these developments. They (visitors and patrons) will come. This is a great vision.

A group called Uptown Butte BID will hold four public gatherings this coming week to talk about a BID and what benefits it could fund. They will also field and answer any questions business owners or others have.

All will be held in the conference room at Action Inc., 24 W. Silver St.

Two meetings are set for Tuesday, one from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and the other from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Two meetings are set for Wednesday, the first from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and the second from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
New Delhi, May 24 : As cyber threats are evolving at a rapid pace globally, with the number of data breaches increasing every year, experts on Friday said that Common Services Centers (CSC) plays a vital role in sharing cyber-security knowledge to the last mile.

Speaking at the CSC Cyber Security Conclave 2024, S Krishnan, Secretary, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said that security is not just about systems, but also about behaviour, knowledge, and habits.

"One of the major risks we face is the end user who may overlook the importance of cyber protection, often sharing PIN numbers and increasing vulnerabilities," he added.

On this occasion, CSC and the United Service Institution (USI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cyber-security.

"The partnership between CSC and USI bridges two different worlds, enhancing our digital landscape. Digitalisation not only enhances productivity but also centralises data, promoting a robust digital economy," said Krishnan.

In addition, Sanjay Rakesh, MD and CEO-CSC SPV said that by developing a cyber think tank, "we aim to foster innovative solutions and create a more user-friendly cyber system".

"We will establish a small, dedicated group to lead our efforts towards cyber protection and work towards developing a cohesive cybersecurity system," he added.

With cyber security being a primary topic, CSC had launched the 'Cyber Rakshak' programme in rural and remote areas in partnership with leading IT infrastructure service provider companies globally.

This cyber security training initiative has equipped women with new technology skills and helped them emerge as cyber security ambassadors.
New Delhi, May 24 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent observations during an interview questioning the postponement of Lok Sabha elections following the assassination of former PM Rajiv Gandhi have ignited a vigorous debate over the Election Commission's "impartiality" during Congress rule in 1991.

New Delhi, May 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent observations during an interview questioning the postponement of Lok Sabha elections following the assassination of former PM Rajiv Gandhi have ignited a vigorous debate over the Election Commission's "impartiality" during Congress rule in 1991.

In the interview, PM Modi asserted that the Congress unnecessarily postponed nationwide elections following Rajiv Gandhi's assassination.

He also claimed that the party orchestrated a nationwide procession of Rajiv Gandhi's ashes to garner public sympathy for later use in the polls.

Critically, PM Modi pointed out the irony of the Congress accusing the present Election Commission of impartiality while engaging in such tactics themselves.

He also sought to suggest that the Congress, now raising 'concerns' about the 'absence' of level playing fields in the elections, showed little regard for fairness in the past.

Political observers referring to past incidents say that after Rajiv Gandhi's assassination, the grand old party allegedly manipulated the Election Commission to delay the polls, exploiting public sympathy for electoral gains.

After the Prime Minister's remarks, numerous posts surfaced on X, showcasing newspaper clippings from that time.

The clippings show how Congress urged the citizens to vote in its favour, further fuelling the ongoing discourse.

"EC rules mandate that if a candidate dies during polls, the election on that particular seat is countermanded and then held at a later date. There is NO rule to postpone the entire elections for just one seat. Yet, this was exactly what was done when Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in May 1991. The entire election was postponed by three weeks," a political commentator posted on X.

Referring to a newspaper clipping, the analyst mentioned that seven Chief Ministers at the time had opposed the postponement of the elections. However, despite their opposition, the then Chief Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan decided to postpone the elections.

The entire debate is raging in the backdrop of the Congress-led opposition raising concerns regarding the Election Commission's 'delay' in releasing data on the voting percentage.

PM Modi himself said during a rally on Thursday that sensing their defeat, the opposition parties have returned to blaming EVMs and raising questions about turnout figures.

A political analyst said, "As many as seven Chief Ministers bitterly opposed the postponement of the elections in 1991. Many called it a murder of democracy and the Constitution. Yet, then CEC T.N. Seshan, a known Congress dynasty loyalist, went ahead and postponed the elections in a completely arbitrary action."

The user also highlighted that the three weeks provided by the Election Commission were effectively utilised by Congress to garner sympathy votes, especially considering the party's perceived trajectory towards a significant electoral setback.

He also claimed that during those three weeks, Congress capitalised on the opportunity to solicit sympathy votes.

"Before Rajiv Gandhi's assassination, the Congress was on track for a significant electoral setback. The party strategically used the postponement period to conduct processions, feature Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi in advertisements, organise last rites Yatras, and deploy other tactics to evoke sympathy from the voters.

"Ultimately, the postponement completely transformed the dynamics of the elections," he added.

Social media users also alleged that Seshan was later "heavily rewarded by Congress" which gave him a ticket to fight against BJP heavyweight L.K. Advani.

Another political analyst said that many other CECs were similarly 'corrupted' by Congress.

"The Congress ecosystem that every day creates a false narrative of a level-playing field against the current EC should rather look at their own shady and despicable past," he argued.
Aizawl, May 24 : The Mizoram Police have begun efforts to bring back home three women of the state from Syria, where they were sent in November 2022 and engaged as housemaids but are now facing serious hardships, officials said on Friday.

A Mizoram Police official said that the Indian Embassy in Syria had informed the state government that a meeting of officials of the Embassy and the Syrian's Ministry of Foreign Affairs was held on May 19 and that a legal notice had been served to the employers of the Mizo housemaids.

"Due to the volatile political situation in Syria, the progress of the rescue is being hampered. However, necessary procedures to repatriate the Mizo housemaids from Syria are at an advanced stage," the official told the media.

Initially, the Syrian placement agency demanded a payment of $2,500 per housemaid for their early repatriation of Mizo housemaids as per the terms of the contract agreement. However, due to the intervention from the Indian Embassy and Syrian authorities, the placement agency has agreed to arrange replacements.

The official said that the issues and hardships faced by three Mizo housemaids working aboard have been recently highlighted on several social media platforms.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma and Home Minister K. Sapdanga have taken this matter very seriously and are monitoring the cases.

"Under the guidance of the Chief Minister and Home Minister, Miss Lalkhumtiri, who had faced issues in Dubai, had also been brought home from that country on May 9. The state government would continue monitoring the situation and maintain communication with all relevant parties and committed to safe repatriation of the three Mizo girls back to Mizoram at the earliest possible time," a Mizoram Police statement said.
New Delhi, May 24 : A three-and-a-half-year-old girl was abducted, raped and murdered by her neighbour in Delhi's Kapashera area and her body dumped in a drain, police said on Friday.

Police said that at 8.51 p.m. on Wednesday, a police control room (PCR) call was received about the abduction of a minor girl in street No. 9, Kapashera and a team was dispatched to the spot.

The victimas mother told police that around 6 p.m., her daughter was kidnapped by a neighbour named Anil.

"A massive search operation was launched to trace the girl and the accused. The team obtained CCTV footage from the cameras in the vicinity, and in one camera, at 7.05 p.m., the accused was seen with the girl going towards Ganda Nala. In the same camera, he was caught returning alone without the girl at around 7.25 p.m.," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Southwest, Rohit Meena said.

Accused Anil, 34, was traced and apprehended at about 11.55 p.m. the same day from a bus heading towards Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur. According to the official, he was interrogated and initially denied having played any role whatsoever in the kidnapping. But during sustained interrogation, he broke down and admitted to having killed and dumped the little girl in a marshy drain located at the border of Gurugram and Kapashera, he added.

"Anil then led the police team to the said drain, where the search for the girlas body was conducted in a vast expanse of marshy terrain, dense bushes, and heaps of garbage. After a long search operation lasting more than an hour in the dark, the girlas body was finally found dumped in the drain," the DCP said.

At that moment, the accused sensed an opportunity to escape. "He grabbed the loaded service revolver of a police officer, as he tried to escape from custody, and fired at the police team. The police fired in self-defence, hitting the accused. He was immediately rushed to the Indira Gandhi Hospital," he said.

The crime and FSL teams were summoned to the spot.

"The dead body was examined by the FSL and crime team. The accused was arrested and is now in judicial custody," the DCP said,

A post-mortem examination of the victim is being conducted by a medical board, the DCP said, adding that police have added Section 376 (Rape) of the Indian Penal Code in the FIR.
Mumbai, May 24 : In all, over 60 Super Cars and 25 Super Bikes will roar to action on Saturday evening as night motor racing returns to Mumbai after nearly two decades in the Drag Star Night Race. The competitions will take place at the restricted Juhu Airport, once a haven for racing and off-roading among the elite. In keeping with the times, the night offers the modern avatar of racing: Drag Racing.

Several categories have been earmarked to make each race a battle between equals. Among them are Up To 450 BHP, 451 to 599 BHP, 600 to 799 BHP and 800 BHP and above for Super Cars and 850cc-1100 and 1100 to 3000cc for Super Bikes, the organisers informed in a release on Friday.

The JK Tyre-backed Drag Star Night Race promises high adrenaline and non-stop thrills as cars and bikes race in pairs along a 400-metre strip.

"This is a high-end racing event. Spectators will witness some of the fanciest and fastest cars go against each other. After pioneering the racing movement in India, we are now focusing on exciting motorsports events at such exclusive locations to attract the youth," Sanjay Sharma, Head-Corporate Communication & Motorsport, JK Tyre, informed on Friday.

As the Traction Partner, JK Tyre will equip a Super Car with their new premium tyres (Levitas Ultra) and pit it against a Formula 4 car in an exhilarating race.

"We will see a mix of factory-built and modified cars and bikes. In addition to Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and McLarens, electric cars like the Mercedes EQS, Audi RS e-tron GT, and Porsche Taycan EV, will also make an appearance," Rongom Mukerji of Elite Octane, the organisers of the Drag Star Night Race, said.

"We have received a tremendous response from not only owners of Super Cars and Bikes but also from race enthusiasts. We are expecting a full house, marking a successful return of racing to the city," he was quoted as saying in a release on Friday.

Among the Super Bikes are BMWs, Suzuki Hayabusas, and Kawasakis to name a few.
Aizawl, May 24 : The African Swine Fever (ASF) so far killed at least 965 pigs in Mizoram since the outbreak of the contagious disease last month while the authorities culled 1,320 pigs to prevent the spread of the virus, an official said on Friday.

Officials in the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary (AHV) Department said that the department declared six districts -- Aizawl, Champhai, Lunglei, Saitual, Khawzawl and Serchhip -- as ASF-infested districts while the remaining five districts of the state are still considered as safe from the recurrence of the infectious disease.

AHV Department officials said that under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Disease in Animals Act, 2009, the department has declared various villages and localities in these six districts as infected areas following the outbreak of ASF in April.

The department has also barred the supply of pigs and pork from the infected zones.

"Our surveillance teams have been culling the pigs with lime powder in the designated areas and we are also requesting the villagers to follow the same procedure," an official of the AHV department said.

Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister C. Lalsawivunga recently held a review meeting with the concerned officials and appealed to all to adhere to the government's guidelines and directives to deal with the disease.

Mizoram was first hit by the ASF in 2021 and since then, reports of the outbreak of the disease have been reported almost every year during summers.

According to officials, the outbreak of ASF mostly occurs when the climate begins to warm up and pre-monsoon rains commence in the state.

Between 2021 and 2023, over 47,270 pigs and piglets have died in Mizoram due to the ASF outbreak, while at least 25,182 pigs have been culled during that period.

The government has so far provided compensation to 2,488 families for loss of pigs due to the disease and the state government has approached the centre for payment of compensation to additional families amounting to Rs 311.66 lakh.

According to experts, the outbreak of ASF may have been caused by pigs or pork brought from neighbouring Myanmar, Bangladesh, and the adjoining states of the northeast.

Pork is one of the most common and popular meats consumed by both the tribals and non-tribals in the northeastern region.

With heavy demand for pork in the northeastern region, its annual business in the region is worth around Rs 8,000-Rs 10,000 crore, with Assam being the largest supplier.
Cannes, May 24 : 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig', Iranian dissident director Mohammad Rasoulof's latest film, for which he received an eight-year prison sentence back home, got a rapturous 12-minute standing ovation at its Cannes Film Festival premiere on Friday, says 'Variety'.

Rasoulof risked his life by appearing at the film's premiere as he fled Iran for Europe on May 13 to avoid going to prison.

The only prominent member of the film's star cast who was with Rasoulof on the red carpet was Golshifteh Farahani, who was seen with Irrfan Khan in the Swiss-French-Singaporean Rajasthani film, 'The Song of Scorpions', premiered at the Locarno Film Festival in 2017.

There was undeniable applause as the credits of Rasoulof's film began to roll (it is 'Variety' policy, though, to begin timing standing ovations once the house lights come up). Rasoulof got teary and waved enthusiastically to the balcony.

Ali Abbasi, director of fellow competition title 'The Apprentice', stood next to Rasoulof and encouraged the crowd to keep clapping -- not that they needed it, as their cheers just got louder and louder.

There was even a sign in the audience that read 'Femme! Vie! LibertA!' ('Woman! Life! Freedom!'), the slogan for solidarity with Iranian women who are demanding their fundamental rights.

The ecstatic response to and political weight of 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' has cemented its status as a frontrunner for the festival's prestigious Palme d'Or, according to 'Variety'.

On the red carpet, Rasoulof, who has previously served prison time in Iran, held up images of stars Soheila Golestani and Missagh Zareh, who were unable to leave Iran for the premiere.

In addition to his prison sentence, adds 'Variety', Iranian authorities had been pressuring him to pull 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig' from Cannes and harassing the film's producers and actors. In an interview with 'Variety' on Thursday, Rasoulof said that Golestani has been arrested by Iranian security services.
Srinagar, May 24 : The J&K Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Friday arrested a police officer in Srinagar for accepting a bribe.

ACB sources said that the station house officer (SHO) of Pantha Chowk police station in Srinagar, Inspector, Azam Khan was arrested after a complaint was filed by a contractor that he had demanded Rs 2.50 lakh for favouring the complainant.

As per a source, the trap team formed by the ACB recovered Rs 1.50 lakh, which was the first instalment of the bribe amount demanded by the SHO, from the police officer in the presence of an executive magistrate and independent witnesses.

"The officer has been arrested and further investigation is now going on to find out whether the officer had other accomplices in the commission of the crime," the source said.
Jaipur, May 24 : Rajasthan Energy Minister Heeralal Nagar has blamed former chief minister Ashok Gehlot for the power crisis in the state, saying the previous regime did not work towards strengthening the power generation and distribution system in the last five years.

Nagar said that "the state's hands are tied with the Gehlot government's agreement signed during Rabi season to meet the power demand in the state".

"Now we have to return the borrowed electricity to other states," the Minister said.

The previous Ashok Gehlot-led government had signed agreements for about 34,800 lakh units of electricity with other states to meet the electricity demand in Rajasthan during the Rabi season. The state received the electricity units from October 2023 to February 2024.

"Now, despite facing the power crisis, the state energy department is returning 200 to 225 lakh units of electricity to other states each day. This is about 5 per cent of the daily electricity demand in the state. There has been demand-supply disbalance due to these units being transferred to other states," an official said on Friday.

Nagar, meanwhile, said the agreement was made in such a manner that "we are now bound to return the borrowed electricity in the peak season".

According to the agreement, Rajasthan has to return the electricity units it borrowed every month from March to September.

Due to the scorching heat in the state, the demand for electricity increases in the months of April, May and June. "But the department has to return the electricity even in this peak season," an official said.

Out of the total 34,800 lakh units of electricity, the department is yet to return 21,536 lakh units of electricity to other states in the next four months.
Bengaluru, May 24 : The leader of the opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R. Ashoka, said on Friday that not a single penny has been released by the Congress government for the development of state capital Bengaluru.

The senior BJP leader also dared the state government to declare how much funds it has allotted for the development of Bengaluru since it came to power last year.

Speaking to reporters here, Ashoka said, "During the tenure of former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, Rs 7,000 crore in special grants was released for the development of Bengaluru in one year. Ex-CM Basavaraj Bommai, during his tenure, released Rs 6,700 crore. Let the Congress come out with figures."

He also asked the Congress government to give an account of the money allotted for filling up 'lakhs of potholes' on the streets of Bengaluru.

"Nothing is happening here other than the Chief Minister's photoshoots. The Commissioner of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) claimed that all necessary measures were taken to handle the rainy season a month ago. If the preparedness was adequate, why would the CM conduct a city tour," Ashoka questioned.

"The contractors are ready to commit suicide as the government has not paid them due to a shortage of funds. What is the role of the state government? When will the government release funds to fill up the potholes? The worst water crisis faced by Bengaluru has dented the reputation of the city on the global stage," Ashoka claimed.

He also said that the state government should provide an account of the funds released in the name of 'Brand Bengaluru'.

"The garbage collectors are under pressure as their bills are not cleared. People are questioning what they are getting in return for the taxes they pay. Is 'Brand Bengaluru' still in existence, or has it disappeared? The Congress government must answer. The BJP will stage a protest on May 28 at the Freedom Park to condemn this," he said.
A Billings man already charged with dealing fentanyl that killed someone is back in custody on accusations of giving the drug to a man that caused a second fatal overdose.

Erik Matthew Castillo, 26, was charged earlier this week in Yellowstone County District Court with criminal distribution of dangerous drugs resulting in a death, an alternative count of criminal distribution of fentanyl and possession of drugs with intent to distribute.

Those killed by fentanyl, allegedly distributed by Erik Castillo, included a 23-year-old man in December 2022 and a 22-year-old man in October. Castillo was booked into Yellowstone County Detention Facility on Thursday, and his arraignment is scheduled for next week.

In early October, first responders found a man dead in his home near Optimist Park, court documents said. The 22-year-old father of one had recently completed rehab. The mother of his child woke up that morning and saw him lying on the kitchen floor. A subsequent autopsy determined that the man had died from fentanyl toxicity, an overdose.

Officers with the Billings Police Department allegedly spoke with an acquaintance of the man, who said he got the fentanyl from Castillo. After Castillo was named as a suspect, an agent with the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area task force took over the investigation. The specialized unit consists of local, state and federal officers and focuses on disrupting drug trafficking rings. The EMHIDTA agent had previously investigated a fatal overdose in Billings connected to Castillo.

In December 2022, the Gazette previously reported, Castillo allegedly gave a man two halves of a fentanyl pill. The man died just hours later.

Castillo visited the 22-year-old mans home the day before he died in October, according to charging documents. One witness allegedly told the EMHIDTA agent the man had been sober for several months, and that Castillo had been in Washington state the week leading up to the visit.

The agent received warrants to pull cell phone data from phones belonging to Castillo and some of his associates. The data allegedly showed Castillo and others in Washington arranging to exchange hundreds of fentanyl pills for cash. Cell phone messages also confirmed that Castillo had sold fentanyl pills to the man who fatally overdosed, court documents said.

In November, agents with the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation searched Castillos home on the West End. Inside, they allegedly found three guns: two semi-automatic rifles and a handgun. They also seized drug paraphernalia such as tin foil, a scale, glass pipes and a baggie suspected to contain 44 fentanyl pills, court documents said.

Criminal charges were initially filed against Castillo in January, with county prosecutors accusing him of selling the fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose in December 2022. Castillo pleaded not guilty to the accusations and was released from custody on a $50,000 bond. The charges connecting Castillo to the overdose in October were filed on May 21, along with a $250,000 bench warrant for his arrest. Castillo entered YCDF two days later.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid produced in North America largely by Mexican cartels, has been linked to a massive increase in fatal overdoses in the United States since 2020. Although overdose deaths have trended upward in the U.S. for the past two decades, in 2020 they jumped to nearly 92,000, up from around 70,000 the previous year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Over the next three years, more than 300,000 people in the U.S. died from drug-involved overdoses.

Fatal overdoses in Montana have coincided with the national trend, per the CDC, going from 143 in 2019 to 208 in 2022. Last year, there were at least 80 deaths linked directly to fentanyl, according to a recent statement from Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen. That preliminary count from the State Crime Lab only included deaths that were followed by an autopsy.

While fentanyl is pressed into pills or developed into a powder by cartel-run labs, the drug makes its way north of the border via complex courier networks. The majority of fentanyl seizures by U.S. Customs and Border Protection occur at legal points of entry, and the majority of the couriers are U.S. citizens.

In his statement released in March of this year, Knudsen announced that drug task forces in the state had seized twice the amount of fentanyl in 2023 than in 2022. Task forces had also seized around 40 pounds of cocaine and nearly 212 pounds of methamphetamine. BPD units seized over 100,000 fentanyl pills in Billings last year.

If convicted of either charge distributing dangerous drugs that resulted in a death, Castillo could be sentenced up to 100 years in prison. A conviction for drug distribution comes with the possibility of up to 25 years in prison.
Bhopal, May 24 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav held a meeting with Chief Secretary Veera Rana and DGP Sudhir Saxena on Friday to take stock of the law and order situation in the state.

At the meeting, CM Yadav passed several directions, including the use of loudspeakers at religious places as per the prescribed norms.

He asked the DGP to ensure that senior police officers conduct surprise inspections at the police stations in their respective areas.

He also directed the police to identify the areas where the crime graph has gone up and install CCTV cameras there.

"CM Mohan Yadav has directed the concerned officials to take tough action against those found involved in illegal activities and crime against women," the CMO said in a statement on Friday.

Notably, this was the first meeting on the state's law and order situation after the Lok Sabha elections were announced on March 16.
Jaipur, May 24 : A man arrested on charges of kidnapping a girl in Rajasthan's Pali district allegedly committed suicide on Friday in police custody by hanging himself in the lockup with a blanket.

The deceased -- Rakesh Seervi (30) -- a resident of Chanvadiya Kalan village, was arrested on Thursday for allegedly kidnapping a girl.

His family members, meanwhile, accused the police of torturing him, resulting in his death.

An official said that the body was shifted to a mortuary.

It was alleged that Rakesh had kidnapped a girl from her house and taken her to a house in Balada village.

The girl, however, somehow managed to call and inform the police about the "kidnapping" following which Rakesh was apprehended.
Bhubaneswar, May 24 : Odisha Police has made adequate security arrangements to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting during the third phase of polling in the state on Saturday (May 25).

A top police officer said that 35,000 police personnel have been deployed for the third phase of voting.

Six Parliamentary constituencies -- Sambalpur, Dhenkanal, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Keonjhar and Puri -- and 42 Assembly constituencies of the state will go to polls on Saturday.

The number of polling stations in the six Lok Sabha constituencies is 10,551 of which around 20 per cent have been designated as "sensitive booths".

Speaking at a press conference here on Friday, DGP Arun Kumar Sarangi said: "As many as 35,000 police personnel including 121 companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), 106 platoons of Special Armed Police force of Odisha Police and 19,865 civil police personnel will be deployed in this phase of polling."

Sarangi further said that the police department has deployed 43 Additional Superintendents of Police, 95 Deputy Superintendents of Police, 238 Inspectors and 2,160 Sub Inspectors in the six Parliamentary constituencies of the state.

"The Election Commission of India has sent an additional 20 companies of CAPFs to Odisha for the sixth and seventh phases of polling as the voting has ended in other states of the country," the senior police officer added.

The Odisha Police has also deployed 763 mobile parties, 331 Flying Squad Teams and 343 Static Surveillance Teams to check any violence and illegal activities during the third phase of polling in Odisha.

Notably, voting for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections is being held simultaneously in Odisha in four phases from May 13 to June 1.
Hyderabad, May 24 : The slugfest between Telangana's opposition and ruling parties continues over farmers' problems and the promise of bonus on paddy.

Stepping up the pressure on the Congress government, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader T. Harish Rao on Friday said farmers would organise a 'Chalo Assemblya protest in July when a full-fledged Budget session will be held.

"Farmers will lay siege to the Assembly and inside the House, we will take the government to task," he said.

Harish Rao visited a village in Khammam district and met a group of farmers who had declared a crop holiday. The former minister claimed that farmers have declared a crop holiday as they are not getting adequate water for irrigation, and the Congress government has failed to come to their rescue.

"This government has failed in providing water for irrigation, ensuring uninterrupted power supply and in providing seeds," he said, alleging that during the last six months of Congress rule, farmers have suffered on every front. He reiterated the demand that the government should pay a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for all varieties of paddy as promised by the Congress during the Assembly elections while slamming the government for putting a rider that a bonus will be paid only for fine varieties from the next year.

"We will not leave this government till it implements all the promises made to farmers," he said.

Harish Rao demanded that the government provide Rs 7,500 per acre for farmers for the coming crop season as per the promise made to extend financial assistance of Rs 15,000 annually under the Rythu Bharosa scheme. He also slammed the government for failing to implement the promise of farm loan waivers to the tune of Rs 2 lakh. He also wanted to know from the government as to when agriculture labourers will get Rs 12,000 financial assistance as promised by it.

Harish Rao had Thursday visited paddy procurement centres in Jagtial and Jayashankar Bhupalpally districts and alleged that the government failed to procure paddy on time, causing losses to farmers.

The BJP is also targeting the Congress government over the farmersa issues.

Union Minister and state BJP President G. Kishan Reddy visited some paddy procurement centres and interacted with farmers to learn about their problems. He alleged that paddy farmers were suffering losses due to the indifferent attitude of the Congress government, quipping that the previous BRS government earned the wrath of farmers in 10 years but for Congress, it took only five months.

The BJP leader claimed that farmers brought their paddy to procurement centres 45 days ago but the government failed to procure it. He said despite the Centre agreeing to procure the coarse variety of rice, the state government is reluctant to procure it from farmers.

The ruling party, however, has denied any delay in procuring paddy. Its leaders accused BRS and BJP of politicising the issue to draw mileage.

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka claimed that the government is procuring even the soaked and wet paddy. He assured paddy farmers that the government would continue procurement of paddy till the last grain.

He said that compared to the previous year, the procurement started 15 days early and the number of procurement centres also increased.

"We are committed to purchasing the entire paddy. Perhaps this commitment is not digestible to the opposition parties," he said.

The Deputy Chief Minister said the government was crediting the amount to farmersa bank accounts within three days, claiming that no government in the past paid the amount within three days. He also brushed aside the criticism by the opposition parties over the paddy bonus issue. He said the government initiated the process to pay a bonus of Rs.500 per quintal with fine varieties of paddy.

The government says that it has so far procured 37.59 lakh tonnes of paddy so far against 33.97 lakh tonnes procured during the Rabi season of 2022-23.

Paddy procurement this year began on March 25 against April 9 last year. This time, the government has opened 7,171 paddy procurement centres against 6,889 last year.
Aizawl, May 25 : Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police in a joint operation have seized heroin valued at Rs 8.43 crore from Champhai district, an official said on Friday.

Assam Rifles sources said that acting on a tip-off, the joint team of para-military troopers and Mizoram police personnel seized the heroin on Thursday night from an abandoned car at Ngur village in Mizoram's Champhai district, which is one of the six districts shared borders with Myanmar and the main corridor drugs smuggling.

The contraband was smuggled from Myanmar and was to be supplied to other states, a source said.

No arrest, however, was made in connection with the seizure.
Patna May 24 : Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday slammed the Central government over national security, claiming that it did not take any action on the border issues involving China.

"The BJP contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections making national security an issue, but what happened after that? China came to the borders and destroyed the understanding that the two countries developed over the years. They (China) knew that the Narendra Modi government only talks, but doesn't take any action," Tharoor said while interacting with mediapersons here.

"If the BJP is contesting the ongoing elections on national security, I would like to say that we had 65 patrolling points on the India-China border where the armies of both countries had the authority to do patrolling for 45 years. Now, the Chinese army has occupied 26 of them and they are not allowing the Indian Army to go there.

"The Modi government has not done anything in this matter. Twenty of our soldiers were martyred in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh," Tharoor said.

Tharoor's remarks came after senior BJP leaders pointed out that PoK belongs to India, and it will be taken back from Pakistan at any cost.

Tharoor added: "The national security narrative of the BJP failed during this election and hence its leaders raised issues of Ram Temple and Hindutva. Now, we have set the narrative for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

"We asked people if there was any change in their lifestyle in the 10 years of Narendra Modi's rule. Do common people get jobs? Has their purchasing power increased? But people are saying that nothing like this happened in their lives. We also asked people why we should give the BJP a third chance," Tharoor said.
Bengaluru, May 25 : The Karnataka Police's CID filed a charge sheet on Friday against three persons, including a bank manager, in the sensational 2013 gang rape and murder case of a private company employee in Bengaluru.

The CID said that the charge sheet names bank manager Narasimha Murthy and his associates C. Deepak and Hariprasad.

It described this case as the most difficult to solve, wherein the accused had gang-raped and murdered the victim, and dumped her body in an isolated location. Despite no initial clues and the local police filing a closure report, citing the inability to identify the accused, the CID sleuths cracked the case 11 years after the incident and managed to apprehend the accused.

According to the police, the victim's husband filed a complaint at the Sanjaynagar police station when his wife did not return home. Her body was discovered in a highly decomposed state in a eucalyptus grove in Muttukadahalli village, within Chikkajala police station limits, on February 15, 2013.

The local police, suspecting the involvement of the victim's husband, arrested him. However, they later released him due to lack of evidence and filed a closure report, claiming that the accused were untraceable.

Protesting the police's actions, the husband filed a petition before the High Court demanding a comprehensive investigation into the case. The High Court subsequently handed over the case to the CID.

After commencing the probe, the CID uncovered the involvement of one of the accused, Deepak, in the case. Following this lead, they cracked the case and discovered that Narasimha Murthy, the manager of the bank where the victim's husband worked, and his associate Hariprasad, had gang-raped and killed her.

The CID stated that the sleuths collected technical and scientific evidence against the three accused.
The American Booksellers Association held its annual meeting and community forum on May 23, with 128 individuals and store locations in attendance. ABAs present membership includes 2,433 bookstore companies with 2,844 store locations, representing an 11% increase in membership year over year, according to ABA board VP and secretary Cynthia Compton, owner of the Indianapolis metro areas 4 Kids Books and Toys and MacArthur Books.

ABA board president Tegan Tigani, childrens book buyer at Queen Anne Book Co. in Seattle, led the meeting and moderated the forum. Topics included the ABAs updated IndieCommerce 2.0 software, its financials and investments, and a renewed call from some members for a ceasefire in Gaza. During the forum, the ABA surveyed attendees about challenges facing their stores, and more than 30% of respondents cited concerns with cash flow and paying staffers a living wage. Fewer than 6% perceived a labor shortage or identified rent/landlord issues or free expression/book bans as primary concerns.

In her remarks, Tigani acknowledged such industry challenges as stores struggling to have enough booksellers on the floor and staffers needing to double down on their side gigs to pay rent. Its hard to keep creating the alchemy of people and books that makes our business, she said. She saw positives in the diversity of bookstores, booksellers, and bookstore owners, the profitability of Independent Bookstore Day, and such technologies as Batch and Edelweiss, which help streamline tasks.

Tigani expressed appreciation for the Book Industry Charitable (Binc) Foundation and Federal Trade Commission chair Lina Khan, an antitrust advocate working on behalf of small businesses including indie bookstores. Tigani thanked outgoing ABA board member Kelly Estep, of Carmichael's Bookstore in Louisville, Ky., and encouraged attendees to follow ABA advocacy associate manager Philomena Polefrone's series of interviews with book industry activists, known as Free Expression Friday. She also previewed proposed revisions to the ABA bylaws, to be approved by the membership in the coming weeks.

Board VP and secretary Compton delivered a financial update and membership report. Compton called the ABAs financials sound and said that the association received a clean report from an independent auditor. At the end of fiscal 2023, the associations endowment was $25.9 million, and it now stands at $27.4 million, Compton said. During 2023, the associations operational revenue was $7.1 million and its expenses were $8.5 million; 76% of its budget went to programming including Winter Institute and Children's Institute, comfortably meeting a benchmark goal of 70%.

The ABAs capital investments in 2023, approved by the board, included a $200,000 investment in Bookshop.org to create an e-book option for independent bookstores, and $524,836 for the continuation of the IndieCommerce upgrade. During the community forum, some attendees questioned whether these investments served the membership equitably; the ABA has so far spent $3.3 million on upgrading to IndieCommerce 2.0.

ABA CEO Allison Hill was unable to attend the meeting and will include her remarks in the official annual report, to be emailed to members next week.

Booksellers Weigh In During Community Forum

It was clear during the Thursday afternoon community forum that the ABA staff and board did not want a virtual repeat of the last in-person community forum held during Winter Institute, when dozens of booksellers stood in lines to take turns castigating the organization, primarily for not taking a stance on what is going on in Gaza.

Because we have limited time together and we want to cover as many topics as possible, we're going to try to limit questions and comments on any one particular topic to just three of them," board president Tigani explained, "so that we have time to cover as many topics and hear from as many voices as we can.

As was to be expected, the ABAs resistance to bookseller demands that it take a public stance on Gaza came up. David Nurick, a bookseller at Chapter One Bookstore in Hamilton, Mont., read an open letter to the organization written by what he described as a collective of like-minded booksellers. We think it is crucial that the ABA speak loudly. Instead, there's been silence, he said. This is not acceptable. Booksellers are in a unique position to promote and amplify voices from all parts of the world as institutions across the globe crack down on freedom of speech and expression, punishing those who speak out against the ongoing annihilation of Palestinians. Demand an end to the violence and promote empathy for all people. It is the right thing to do and we are demanding that the ABA step up and advocate for what's right with us as they have with LGBTQIA+ issues and book banning.

John Evans, co-owner of Diesel Bookstore in Los Angeles and Del Mar, Calif., followed up on Nuricks open letter by suggesting that the ABA at least advocate for the rights of booksellers, students, faculty, citizens to have free speech, to carry books, express ideas, etc., in our stores. Tigani responded by noting that the ABA is committed to supporting freedom of expression and the safety of our booksellers as much as we can," and that commitment is stated "in our ends policies.

A few booksellers expressed concerns with Bookshop.org. Robert Sindelar, a managing partner at Third Place Books in Seattle, brought up the way Bookshop divides shares, suggesting that the ABA might encourage Bookshop to consider ABA membership dues in determining shares. Linda Sherman-Nurick, co-owner of Cellar Door Books in Riverside, Calif., wrote in an email that many indies prefer not to use Bookshop.org, that some of us see it as a direct competitor.

Other booksellers complained of publishers not taking the needs of indies more into consideration in their decision making or, as Diesel co-owner Alison Reid put it, showing disregard for us as customers. In an email sent to Tigani, Sandy Cararo, the owner of the Book Dragon in Staunton, Va., complained of publishers shipping books early to chain stores, enabling those stores to start selling those books when we havent even received ours. She added, Big box stores should receive their books last. Cararo also complained of big publishers not holding accountable those bookstores that not only disregard on-sale dates but brag about putting them out early.

Noting that ABA executives and board members regularly meet with publishers, Tigani said that the strict on-sale date has been one of the big themes during these meetings, and that the organization has brought these issues to the attention of the Book Industry Study Group.

Describing Amazon as the elephant in the room, board member Raquel Roque, a buyer at Books & Books in Miami, said she has been present for publisher meetings, and when you ask the publishers how much percentage is the independent book business, they give you a percentage so low that it just freaks the heck out of you.... 75% of their income depends on Amazon." She added: "You can't blame them, because it's survival of the fittest, and yet a lot of the work that we do really helps Amazon sales later on.

Were small and mighty, Raquel, Tigani responded. Thank you for always being part of that strong, strong commitment to the books and to the readers.
Three Louisiana library board members who were removed by a parish council in May, two years after a controversy erupted over LGBTQ book content, have filed a lawsuit in federal court to keep their positions.

The suit was filed in U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of Louisiana by William Bill McHugh III, a retired software developer, Rebecca Taylor, the former board president and a retired librarian, and Anthony Parr, the boards secretary/treasurer and a former special education teacher.

McHugh and Parr had been appointed in 2023 and Taylor in 2022 to serve on the St. Tammany Library Board of Control. But in a twist, a recently elected council member, David Cougle, (who is a defendant in the federal lawsuit) argued that McHugh and Parr's positions needed to be reappointed to stagger their terms in compliance with a state statute. When it came time to reappoint, the council instead chose conservative replacements.

The ousted board members are suing St. Tammany Parish and Cougle, claiming they are victims of a smear campaign that vilified them, sought, and achieved their ouster. The suit also alleges hat the defendants retaliated against the plaintiffs for exercising their First Amendment rights and discriminated against them for the content and viewpoint of their speech by terminating their appointments. They also maintain they were denied substantive due process, insisting they were terminated based on false charges and without a name clearing hearing or process.

The controversy dates back to June 2022, when three of the parishs 12 library branches featured displays announcing Pride Month. According to the suit, this prompted complaints, including one that claimed St. Tammany is a mostly conservative community and warned, the voters will remember.

In August 2022, Cougle co-founded the Saint Tammany Library Accountability Project (STLAP). The suit says co-founder Connie Phillips lodged as many as 150 complaints targeting specific books, including Gender Queer, I am Jazz. At a 2022 library board meeting at the Slidell branch, the suit also claims, Cougle accused board members of approving pornographic and pedophilic materials targeting young children and compared them to sexual predators.

St. Tammany Parish Library Executive Director Kelly LaRocca, however, said the parishs libraries contained no pornographic or obscene materials.

In October 2023, Cougle was elected to the parish council after vowing to do everything in my power to solve the library crisis.

Once in office, Cougle questioned whether state statute required that library board members serve staggered terms and called for the council to declare existing members terms expired and nominate new candidates for a staggered term immediately. Ultimately, the council voted for candidates to fill six seats. Five seats were filled by candidates recommended in an ad in the Slidell Independent paid for by Citizens for Common Sense Solutions, which warned against appointing three far-left or liberal board members."




Were attempting to unravel the tangled web of literary influence by talking with the great writers of today about the writers of yesterday who influenced them. This month, we spoke with two writers whose work has explored the aggregate nature of personal and collective fate, both of whom chose to discuss authors who were master interrogators of the individual/social dualism inherent to their particular time and place. Jinwoo Chong (Flux) talks about the tragically delayed triumph of John Okadas No-No Boy. Jennifer Egan (A Visit From the Goon Squad, The Candy House) dives into the architectural soundness of Edith Wharton.

Jinwoo Chong on John Okada

Okadas descriptions of 1940s Seattle are incredibly teleportative. It all feels very real and lived in.

I completely agree. It comes alive for me in the dialogue. Especially when I think about Freddie, the deadbeat friend of Ichiros, and the way he talks. It's kind of like a Greaser, and while it's familiar to me as someone alive now, it's also kind of alien in a way that I think is interesting and indicative of the time. Also, the way his parents speak is interesting because they make it apparent how it's a melding of cultures, whether they're speaking in translated Japanese or broken English.

The rough-around-the-edges world that Okada writes fits right alongside the Beats, who were his contemporaries, but he was never associated with them. Wasnt he always something of a literary loner?

The story of John Okada makes me very sad, for that reason. His was a life of total isolation from this world that he wanted to be a part of. I think his experience as a writer was probably his same experience growing up as a Japanese American person during that time. We know he was not a no-no boy. He served in the army and was what white American people wanted him to be more than Ichiro or the other characters in the novel, but he was kind of alone in a lot of those things.

His characters shatter the Asian stereotypes of the time.

I really admire that about him. Thats probably why the book wasn't very successful. It wasn't what people wanted it to be and what felt familiar to people who were reading it. And that's part of the tragedyand the miracle of how the book was rediscovered, just in some random shop. We're lucky to have it.

The book was published by Charles Tuttle, which was not an American publisher, and it went without notice. It was worse than panned by critics. Nobody cared about it. And Okada worked on a second novel but died before that could ever become a thing. Years went by, and in the seventies somebody found No-No Boy in a bookshop and resurfaced it. That would have been, like, 20 years after it had been published.

The edition of No-No Boy that I have has an afterward that talks about tracking down John Okada's widow who was surprised to hear that anybody had read the book, and who confessed later that she had burned his second novel becauseshe had her reasons. There was, I'm sure, a lot of disappointment over his rejection by the literary public, grief over his death, all of those things. And that's what makes it so sadthat John Okada and everybody that knew him died thinking he was an utter failure at this, and now that his work is so influential to so many people. I guess there is justice in that, but it's also quite tragic. He never knew the impact that it had on people.

The ending of No-No Boy has that same sense of dual-fated frustration to it.

The ending is one of the strangest, weirdest, happiest, and saddest things that I've read. In some ways it's very unfulfilling. We end up with so many questions. There's so much precarity and fear over what's gonna happen to this character that we spend so much time with and that you come to really care about, but in a couple of lines he makes it both hopeful but also kind a realization of the uncertainty of the future.

You can have fulfillment without there being actual narrative fulfillment. You can still be satisfied by this ending while also having had things taken away from you or questions that linger. If you feel at the end that you're okay with it, then the questions are okay to leave open. My favorite part of this novel is the ending.

Jennifer Egan on Edith Wharton

Wharton has so many books that its hard to know where to begin, so I boned up on The Age of Innocence.

She has three great books, in my opinion, and they work really well together. They're all set in New York: The Age of Innocence, The Custom of the Country, and The House of Mirth. She also has a few so-so books and a couple of stinkers, honestly, so her oeuvre is really uneven. But it's sort of amazing how The House of Mirthwhich was her first great bookcame about, because she basically got slotted in with a really harsh deadline because someone else had dropped out of the lineup at Scribner, and so she was under this tremendous pressure, and it wrested from her such an incredible masterpiece.

What about her writing do you find most striking?

I think if I had to pick one thing that makes her such a role model for me, it's that she does so many things well on the level of the sentence. There's so much complexity and intelligence, and often humor. She is so funny.

She has a kind of humorous appreciation for her own caricatures.

It's true. She verges on the edge of caricature sometimes, and there is a kind of affection to the portraits. The Age of Innocence is a historical novel set in the 1870s of Wharton's youth but it was published in the 1920s, into a world that is entirely different from the one she's depicting. Mrs. Manson Mingott is a woman who is an eminence, a typical grand dame of this world, but she and the whole world are long gone, and so there's kind of collective nostalgia, affection, but also mockery. And that's Wharton's hallmark: on the level of the sentence, she does fantastic work with characterization. She gets the fact that people are basically contradictory, that we are not quote unquote consistent characters. And I would even go so far as to say that the defining qualities of each of us probably have to do with our contradictionsthe ways in which our qualities don't add up. She's great at that.

But she also is always dealing with huge issues. The House of Mirthwhich is one of my favorite novels; probably the first work of Literature, capital L, that I read on my ownis about the tyranny of an economy in which women had very little agency, but one source of power that they had was physical beauty. In order to really capitalize on that, one had to marry within a certain timeframe to a certain kind of person or one slipped through the cracks. That's the story she tells, and it's so devastating.

Her work often feels deceptively superficial at first, but as you read it becomes increasingly multi-dimensional.

Its interesting, because if you think about what other books were being published at the same time as The Age of Innocence, in a way she was old-fashioned. Ulysses was published the same year. Modernism was in full throttle. You don't feel that in her, except to the degree that I think there is an awareness of the fact that perception creates realitythat we make the world with our perception of it, and in a way that's sort of what is revealed about Newland Archer. When we start to realize that the people around him know far more about what's going on in his mind and around him than he does. He feels like this kind of mastermind, but it's his perception creating a reality that is not that is not accurate. And I think, in a way, that is a kind of modernist observationthe notion that reality is subjective.

I've tried to emulate that multi-dimensional quality of her prose: the fact that it's smart and vivid from the level of the sentence to the level of the whole. Its so hard to do that. And the result is, since fiction basically is an act of compression, to try to pack as much of the variety of life and perception as possible into a relatively small spaceshe does that, and the result is power. To somehow wring power out of the prose on the level of the sentence, the paragraph, the chapter, and the novel. To have that architectural soundness that begins with the very smallest building blocks while holding herself to the highest standards in terms of what happens on the level of the paragraph, the chapter, the book, and the whole.

Here's another thing. I love the fact that there's so much humor woven through itthe golden threads of humor that are always there on the level of the sentence. Even in a book like The House of Mirth, which is in no way comic, there's comedy all along. I really admire the ability for a book to hold more than one tone. Again, the compression is about doing opposite things at the same time. That's what really gives something power. And that's something I think about a lot. How can something be nonsense and make perfect sense? How can something be funny and terrible? Its always better if you're doing more than one thing. That's where power comes from.

These interviews have been lightly edited for clarity.

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May 22 saw the U.S. Book Shows most successful iteration yet. In case you missed itor if you're ready to relive itwe've rounded up some highlights and takeaways from all the panels.

The publishing CEOs who joined PW at the U.S. Book Show had a lot to say about artificial intelligence, from a number of perspectives. S&S CEO Jonathan Karp had the most colorful take, rejecting the suggestion that the technology is currently the elephant in the room in publishing and calling it, instead, more like the cicada in the world. You know, lots of buzzing and lots of screwing. On a more serious note, he added, it was clear that rights are being infringed, despite being a valuable tool.

Macmillan's chief financial officer, Clare O'Rourke, started the day by doing the Lord's work: explaining how to make heads or tails of profit and loss statements. (The practice is famously opaque; at the 2022 antitrust trial that ended Penguin Random Houses bid to acquire Simon & Schuster, the presiding judge asked Brian Tart, president and publisher of Viking: The P&L is really fake. Am I wrong? Tart, laughing, responded, simply, No!) In this example, I'm assuming this is a nonfiction book, normal nine-inch trim, 250 pages long, for a debut author, and we're paying a $300,000 advance. The crowd, mostly young agents, laughed half-heartedly. I know, ORourke joked. Love that, right?"

Steve Potash, CEO of OverDrive, discussed the broad range of libraries and customers that the platform serves, from schools and academic institutions to corporations and government. Our single largest nonpublic or academic library is the United States Department of Defense, he said. Each branch of the military has 1.7 million constituents. Its every active serviceman. It's all their families, all their children, whether they're in submarines or they're at the War College or at a forward station. They want fiction, fantasy, education materials, graphic novels. This is a huge market.

A conversation between Hachette VP and head of contracts Janet Saines-Cardozo (r.) and AALA general counsel Jaime Wolf, whose jobs have grown more complicated as AI has proliferated, took a cautious approach to the buzzy new technology. Although much of the conversation on AI in the book business has surrounded concerns over copyright infringement and potential job loss among book jacket designers and literary translators, Saines-Cardozo and Wolf hinted at even broader implications. One example was the issue of image and likeness rights, which have routinely been included in publishing contracts as part of the publicity and marketing materials for the books and which could be interpreted as giving a publisher the right to, as Wolf suggested, create a video of the late Toni Morrison endorsing somebody's booksomething he suggested would be easy using such tools as OpenAIs text-to-video model Sora. Saines-Cardozo, for her part, dismissed such possible deepfakes as insanity that a publisher would avoid on principle, because that is 1. unethical, 2. fraudulent, and depending on the brand, it's also an endorsement that has monetary value for somebody.

Owen Smith, VP of product and technology for audiobooks at Spotify, spoke about how the company has integrated audiobooks into its platform and expanded the potential audience for publishers' books. By introducing audiobooks to Spotify, we have been able to bring them to over 650 million users and over 239 million subscribers in 180 markets all over the worldits just a huge amount of people to reach, he said, adding that the platforms high level of user engagement means that it can target the right reader for a book title. I believe it's this mix of the human editorial expertise with our personalization products that make our recommendations feel more authentic and more culturally relevant.

Keith Reigert, CEO of Ulysses Press, demonstrated use case scenarios for a variety of AI products, including ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, Midjourney, and Photoshop. Whether we like it or not, he said, AI is going to have an impact on the publishing industryand he implored the audience to prepare. If you run a publishing company or you oversee a team, this is a really, really important time to set out an AI roadmap, he said. And if you are working in the publishing industry, this is a critical time to start using AI as much as you possibly can. Because it is not AI that is going to take your jobit's somebody that is using AI that is going to take your job.

How do you manage the intimacy that this job demands to make the relationships, the work, better, while simultaneously being efficient? Yahdon Israel, senior editor at Simon & Schuster, mulled at a pre-lunch session featuring the newly created Young Publishers Association. Noting that agents have told him before that they'd rather hear not for me  than nothing, Israel suggested that, while that is an efficient way to navigate the job, I find it not to be a sustainable way to do the job in a way that's meaningful as an editor. To address this, he said, What I have been doing is intentionally getting numbers of agents and calling the person up. I've just seen that making the step to have the phone call, it's a five-minute conversation, versus an email thread that can occur over two or three daysand it's more personal.

Unsurprisingly, former Knopf publisher Reagan Arthur bowed out of the U.S. Book Show after losing her job suddenly on Monday in a move that sent ripples through the book business, which was described, during the panels introduction as a business of musical chairs. The crowd applauded a suggestion that those assembled were looking forward to seeing where she lands next. Remaining panelists including 37 Ink publisher Dawn Davis (c.) and Little, Brown publisher Sally Kim (second from r.) discussed what characteristics they look for when hiring young publishing professionals and how they've handled career shifts. People who set a high standard for themselves," Davis suggested, are ideal: You dont have to micromanage them, because theyve already set a bar thats high and arent afraid of the industry that is required to be successful. To the latter question, Kim replied, I dont think Ive ever known when it was time for a change. Publishers: They're just like us!

A panel discussion, Kicking Down the Gates, featured publishers in discussion about best practices for making publishing more accessible and diverse. Joy Peskin (third from l.), executive editorial director of FSG Books for Young Readers, suggested that overcoming conflict, which is sometimes born of miscommunication, is key. I think conflict is a very important and healthy part of people coming together across differences, she said. We are going to stumble, but then we're also going to be able repair any relationship. Peskin went on to describe a needlepoint that was given to her as a gift that summed up her point of view about handling conflict. It reads: Be curious, not furious. Other panelists focused on the use of comps in presenting books, noting that the preponderance of comps were made to books by white authors, which often make for inappropriate comparisons to books by BIPOC authors.

During the afternoon panel Sales Says, directors addressed the symbiotic relationship between sales and marketing. Christine Edwards (second from l.), SVP of sales at Abrams, pointed out that while point-of-sale data is an invaluable tool for publishers, it isnt infallible. We spend a lot of time working in the rear-view mirror, she said. We can look at POS historical data or POS on comps, expecting that that is an indicator for the success of a future publication, but it isnt, necessarily.

How can agents and editors tighten their relationships? What can they do better for each other? At a session called Great Expectations, panelists and audience members alike shared tips for how to make everyone's work better and easier. Suggestions included cc'ing agents on all correspondence between editor and author, remembering the importance of the lunch for networking, following up on submissions with phone or video calls in addition to emails, and remembering that a lack of response from editors can impact relationships between authors and their agents. Aliya King (r.), executive editor at Disney Publishing, kept the audience in stitches. I want to talk about the word ghosting, make sure we're using this the way I see it," King said, suggesting that editors losing track of emails and forgetting to respond to agents was not malicious in the way that word implies. "My introduction to ghosting came several years ago, after my divorce."

Agents and editors shared their experiences on opposite sides of an auction during a late afternoon panel that introduced some memorable terminology. In an effort to convince the assembled agents why publishers find round robin auctions preferable to best bids, Stephanie Hitchcock, editorial director of the recently launched Simon Acumen, suggested that if you've been playing it out over time, you can probably generate more enthusiasm in-house. Are you talking about auction fever? moderator Ivan Held, president of Putnam, Berkley, and Dutton, asked slyly. Asked by CAA agent Anthony Mattero to explain, Held cracked up the crowd: Where you went to the finance peopleand said, I need $350,000 for this book, and then a bid comes in at $600K, and you go back begging, saying, I know I wasn't going to spend a penny over $350K, but I need $700K. How are those P&Ls? asked another agent on the panel. Terrible, Zack Wagman, VP and editorial director at Flatiron, deadpanned.

The panel discussion Greenlighting 2.0 took a look at the current state of adapting books to film. Lucy Stille (second from l.), founder of her eponymous agency, said that it is important for publishers to remember the key differences between the way streamers and filmmakers produce work. One of the things you need to understand about them is, in television, streamers like Netflix commit to a seasonmaybe eight to 10 episodesunlike broadcast companies like ABC, which commits to a pilot and then maybe a season. Book IP became crucial to them because they could see what the whole thing was going to look like. Another key takeaway was that books remain appealing to producers, but are most appealing in a series, where there is a strong central character or set of characters that can appear in multiple seasons and become, in essence, a franchise on their own.

To wrap up the day, Vivian Tu (l.), author of Rich AF, offered suggestions to young people in publishing on how to manage their finances and maximize their publishing salaries.
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Theres no doubt that the American Civil War remains a hot-button issue after more than 160 years. The war truly pitted brother against brother and tore the nation apart. Some of the wounds havent healed to this day, while others have been freshly reopened  so much so that many Confederate memorials have been removed across the country, while U.S. Army installations and even U.S. Navy vessels have been renamed.

Critics contend that those efforts are meant to wash away our nations history, and rather than bridging the divide some argue that its making things worse.

At the same time, our great nation has sadly never been more divided politically, and some have even suggested we may be on the verge of yet another American Civil War. That irony may not be lost on those who attend the annual Ohio Civil War & Artillery Show at the Richland County Fairgrounds in Mansfield, Ohio, each May.

The Ohio Civil War Show director Teresa Williams Drushel with Honest Abe.

It now regularly attracts thousands, including hundreds of reenactors, militaria dealers, and collectors. The 2023 show saw attendees come from 44 different states and as far away as Hawaii. Its now a weekend-long event thats part living history expo, temporary museum, historic vehicle show, and multi-building collectibles market.

It has also grown into much more than just about the American Civil War.

Throughout the seven buildings and sprawling fields, reenactors from a plethora of time periods come out. In many ways, the Ohio Civil War Show is now a military history comic con style event for those who prefer the exploits of real heroes to fictional ones in goofy costumes.

FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Just as the now famous San Diego Comic-Con International began with a few tables in the 1970s, where there was much skepticism that fans would come out, the Ohio Civil War Show had its detractors.

It was started more than four decades ago in 1977 by Don Williams with just 60 tables and a handful of reenactors. Held at the Ashland Armory, the show was a sellout by its second year and moved to the Convocation Center at Ashland University in Central Ohio. But even that proved insufficient for the growing event, and by 1992, it moved to its current home at the Richland County Fairgrounds.

Not everything is for sale at the Ohio Civil War & Artillery Show. Each year, there are impressive historic firearms-related displays including this one on the Winchester lever-action rifle.

Though it meant that the indoor exhibits were spread across multiple buildings, it actually offered a new opportunity  namely that cannon collectors could literally bring out their big guns, and thus was born the Artillery Show to complement the Civil War Show. Since the passing of Don in 2009, the annual spring event has carried on and is now run by his three children.

My father always heard the show would never make it, but clearly he proved the naysayers wrong, said Teresa Williams Drushel, daughter of Don Williams and director of the Ohio Civil War Show, which she runs with her brothers Greg and Wayne. Were still going strong; while weve expanded to include artifacts from World War I and World War II, the roots are still in the Civil War.

Displays such as this one on the 1816 musket truly make the show feel like a temporary museum.

For Drushel, its more than just a show for Civil War and history buffs to add to their collections. Throughout the weekend, its an event thats focused on a love of the past, noted in the numerous displays and the presence of dozens of reenactors.

Weve heard from families that really appreciate how it is something kids can really enjoy, added Drushel. We like to think were helping keep history alive.

Some of the cannons that were offered for sale at a past Artillery Show  an Indian rifled cannon (left) from the 19th century, an 18th-century deck gun (center), and a Southeast Asian lantaka, a swivel cannon used on small boats.

It certainly has become an event for children of all ages who come out and share their love of history.

AN ANTIQUE ARMS SHOW

For collectors, the Ohio Civil War & Artillery Show is now among the largest antique arms shows in the country  eclipsed in size only by the annual events in Baltimore and Las Vegas. Spread across the five buildings are around 750 tables, with 90 percent devoted to sales, while the remainder is displays that typically rival anything that might be seen even in some of the nations best firearms museums.

In addition to small arms, military memorabilia from 1775 through 1945 is offered for sale, trade, and display.

A variety of Civil War ordnance highlights the great progress that occurred in the second half of the 19th century.

Related items typically include books, photographs, paper goods, and uniforms. Its easy to see why the Ohio Civil War Show has been described as one of the best temporary Civil War museums in the country, and where most everything is for sale  provided you have deep enough pockets. And as a gun show, its one where you could even go home with a cannon, as there are always a few offered for sale.

A display of German World War II machine guns was presented by collector Kevin Kinney.

For those who prefer to look rather than own, the Artillery Show also features cannon firing demonstrations that take place on Saturday and Sunday each year.

A LIVING HISTORY EVENT

The Ohio Civil War Show unfortunately doesnt feature a full reenactment. Yet, it does offer a number of other annual activities. These have included various firearms demonstrations, a field hospital that has included mock amputations, period music from Civil War bands, and the crowd-favorite Gettysburg Address thats provided by a professional Abraham Lincoln reenactor.

This German First World War MinenWerfer M/1916 was among the rarer artillery pieces to be seen at a past Ohio Civil War Show.

As noted, despite being named for the American Civil War, the event now attracts a significant number of World War II reenactors who camp out throughout the weekend, bringing a variety of bicycles, motorcycles, Jeeps, Kubelwagens, and other historic vehicles. There are also a number of weapons displays, and exhibitors are more than happy to share their knowledge of the various items.

For years, the event saw mostly German and American World War II encampments, but increasingly there have been more Soviet Red Army reenactors present. And like any comic-con large or small, fans come out dressed to the nines to represent their favorite warfighters from history.

A variety of sidearms and handguns offered for sale at the annual show.

The show has managed to avoid the controversy that has been seen related to the Confederacy, even if there have been fewer Johnny Rebs in recent years. But the Williams family has said the community understands that whether its a reenactor in Confederate gray or German Army feldgrau (field-gray), it isnt meant as a glorification but really an appreciation for history.

Presented at a recent Ohio Civil War Show was this display of unique M1 carbine rifles.

We thought there could be backlash, said Wayne Williams. But nothing really transpired. This show is about history, not controversy. I was asked if wed fly the Confederate flag at the show, and my answer was darn right, because were about the history.
Chinese premier stresses importance of summer grain harvest

Xinhua) 08:07, May 24, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits a scientific research institution in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, May 22, 2024. Li made a research trip to the province from Wednesday to Thursday. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

ZHENGZHOU, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for efforts to secure a bumper summer grain harvest and promote the innovative development of agriculture.

Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a research trip to central China's Henan Province from Wednesday to Thursday.

During his inspection of high-standard farmlands in the city of Xinxiang, Li called for efforts to enhance cross-regional mechanized harvesting, prevent and control disasters, and prepare for summer sowing.

Minimum grain purchase prices should be utilized well to ensure farmers are able to earn money, he said.

During his tour, he also visited a seed-breeding innovation center, a food enterprise and a scientific research institution.

Efforts should be made to promote the construction of innovative platforms in the seed industry, and to strengthen support for research personnel in the agricultural sector, Li said.

He noted the importance of efforts to leverage the leading role of key enterprises and promote the coordinated development of the entire industrial chain to develop a specialty food industry.

Deepening the reform of science and technology mechanisms is an important measure to achieve greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, Li said.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspects high-standard farmlands in the city of Xinxiang, central China's Henan Province, May 23, 2024. Li made a research trip to the province from Wednesday to Thursday. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The estate of a man killed by police in Bozeman last year, who was in the midst of a mental health crisis, sued the Bozeman Police Department and eight officers this week alleging they violated the mans constitutional rights and wrongfully caused his death.

The federal lawsuit was filed last week on behalf of the estate of Michael Rogel, the 39-year-old man shot and killed by police in April 2023, by Bozeman attorneys Hillary Carls and Timothy Bechtold.

It claims the department and officers were not properly trained and failed to try to de-escalate the situation with Rogel by not calling in mental health professionals and by shooting him with bean bag rounds and then bullets. The suit also claims the department and officers violated Rogels rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth amendments to the U.S. Constitution and violated the Montana Constitutions equal protection clause.

According to the lawsuit and prior news reports about the shooting and subsequent investigation  a coroners inquest jury found the shooting to be justified, KBZK and the Bozeman Daily Chronicle reported  what started with Rogel and his mother both calling 911 to report Rogel was in the middle of a mental health crisis ended with both he and his dog being shot and killed by five BPD officers on April 3, 2023.

Both the suit and testimony from the coroners inquest said Rogel believed people were chasing him and trying to kill him when he called 911 that day. KBZK reported Rogels mother had told police her son was supposed to be taking antipsychotics. The lawsuit says officers and dispatch did not connect him with mental health services or keep him on the phone.

When officers started organizing to respond to his home, according to the suit, a member of the police departments Special Response Team, which has access to a Bearcat armored truck and is typically utilized in standoffs with people in possession of weapons, offered to help, but an officer at the scene declined the assistance.

Rogel left home in his vehicle along with his Bernese Mountain Dog before officers arrived at his house, according to the suit, and officers chased him to a cul-de-sac on Greenmore Court, where the vehicle got stuck in a snowbank. The lawsuit and a report from the police department said officers surrounded the vehicle with guns drawn.

BPD fueled Mr. Rogels emergency, becoming the people with guns that Mr. Rogel feared were chasing him. BPD made Mr. Rogels fears a reality, the lawsuit says.

A spokesperson for the City of Bozeman said Thursday the city was aware of the lawsuit but does not comment on pending litigation.

Rogel had a shotgun in the vehicle at the time, according to both the lawsuit and prior information released by the police department. According to KBZK, a news release from the police department released a week after the shooting said officers saw Rogel manipulating and moving the shotgun and that he pointed it in their direction before officers fired upon him.

The lawsuit, however, says that while Rogel had a shotgun in the vehicle, it was not loaded, he did not have any ammunition for it, and he did not know how to use it.

Mr. Rogel could not be a physical threat to anyone because of the medical emergency that he was experiencing. Mr. Rogel was incapable of threatening trained and armed law enforcement officers, especially when six officers had weapons pointed at him, the suit says. It is unreasonable to conclude that Mr. Rogel threatened anyone or was a threat to anyone.

The lawsuit claims the four officers who initially surrounded the vehicle put themselves in a situation where they did not have proper cover by declining to order the Bearcat at first and threatened to shoot Rogel if he didnt follow their orders. It says that Rogel was not in a mental state in which he could respond logically and calmly and accuses officers of losing patience and failing to properly communicate with Rogel to de-escalate the situation.

It says one officer fired bean bag rounds at Rogel and his dog, and after that called in the Special Response Team and Bearcat, which the suit says should have been called in sooner because it could have been a tool to ensure officer safety for the entire interaction while they waited for Mr. Rogel to calm down or were able to get the proper professionals in place to help Mr. Rogel navigate this mental health emergency.

KBZK reported that body camera footage shown to the inquest jury showed officers asking Rogel to keep his hands up and off the shotgun for about 30 minutes before they shot him.

The suit says that the officer driving the Bearcat did not activate the dashboard camera on the vehicle nor his body camera, and that as it arrived, five officers opened fire on Rogel, including one the suit claims reloaded their weapon before firing more rounds.

The lawsuit claims officers fired 28 bullets total from handguns and rifles, as well as several bean bag rounds, at Rogel and his dog, both of whom were killed in the shooting. It calls the fatal shooting one that was based on a perceived threat of (the officers) own making.

Mr. Rogel called BPD to save his life. It is tragic that this call for help resulted in Mr. Rogels exact fearhis death, the lawsuit says.

The lawyers are asking for a jury trial in the case and are claiming multiple constitutional violations by both the department and the officers.

The lawsuit says the officers and department each violated amendments to the U.S. Constitution protecting against unreasonable seizure, excessive force, and against deprivation of life, liberty or property without due process or equal protection under the law.

The suit also claims the police department was deliberately indifferent by failing to adequately hire, supervise, train, or discipline its law enforcement officers. It says the department has unwritten patterns and practices of failing to properly train officers on use of force, investigating such incidents, and fail to adequately train officers on how to respond to mental health emergencies.

The policies, customs, and practices implicitly or explicitly adopted by the BPD amounted to deliberate indifference to and conscious disregard of Mr. Rogels constitutional rights and ratified the violation of his rights, the suit says. BPDs breach resulted in Mr. Rogels death.

The suit claims all the defendants in the case also violated the Montana Constitutions equal protection clause by not properly responding to a mental health crisis and failing to intervene and makes claims of assault and battery against the officers and emotional distress the shooting caused to Rogel and his family.

The attorneys for Rogels estate are asking a judge to grant compensatory damages from the department and officers, punitive damages against the officers, injunctive relief, incurred costs and interest, as well as attorneys fees in the case.
There was no smooth surge in middle class prosperity for foreign businesses to tap into because of the Indian economy was mismanaged, argues Debashis Basu.

Photograph: Nick Zieminski/Reuters

Among the many arrogant quips and replies given by foreign banks immediately following the securities scam of 1992 was: "If you keep your front door unlocked, you are likely to be burgled."

This comment came from a cowboy banker from Citibank. He was justifying how foreign banks had hoodwinked Indian public sector banks in the opaque government securities market to make obscene profits.

While their treasury operations were unknown outside the small, shadowy world of the Indian debt market, Citibank too was a dominant retail financial services brand in the early 1990s, setting the pace for retail finance -- from credit cards to consumer loans.

ICICI Bank was still a development-finance institution, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Axis Bank did not exist, and HDFC Bank, set up in 1994, was headed by a former Citibanker.

Some 30 years later, in March 2023, the same Citi sold its retail business to Axis Bank and exited the Indian retail banking business.

It was not an isolated case. Over the years, the presence of foreign banks in India has been reduced to nothing.

The largest foreign bank in India is Standard Chartered Bank, which has only 100 branches in 42 cities. HSBC has just 26 branches.

The 38-odd other foreign banks operating in India have an insignificant presence.

HDFC Bank alone has more than 8,000 branches.

The biggest global banks like JP Morgan Chase, Bank of America, Mitsubishi UFJ, and BNP Paribas are either not present in India or have nothing much on the ground.

The top banks in India are State Bank of India, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank.

It is a similar story in mutual funds. Among the top 10 mutual funds, there are a few foreign joint venture partners, but they have little role.

Most funds are entirely Indian owned. The only foreign asset management company among the top 10 is Nippon India.

The largest US mutual funds are not in India.

Morgan Stanley and Fidelity have walked out of India and Templeton is struggling to grow.

The story is slightly different in insurance, where many foreign companies are joint venture partners because the business is a bit technical.

But these too are controlled by Indian management.

Life Insurance Corporation of India, a Government of India company, still rules the life cover business.

All this is a far cry from the early 1990s, when circumspect Indian policymakers attempted to strike a balance between domestic interests, on the one hand, and the diplomatic push of US trade representatives, on the other, to smooth the entry of US foreign financial into India.

Reams of media columns were written on how an aspirational middle class of India (estimated at 200 million at that time) prospering through economic liberalisation, would need retail loans, insurance, and -- thanks to India's high savings rate -- investment products like mutual funds.

And, who better to sell these to Indians than US companies, which claimed to have the best products and investment expertise? Multiple rounds of discussion at the World Trade Organization focused on opening emerging markets to services from developed nations (read Wall Street); left-leaning politicians and academics howled about the possibility of neo-colonialism, brought about by neo-liberalism.

What happened was exactly the opposite.

In 1993-1994, when six private mutual funds were licensed, many of them had foreign partners.

Subsequently, more foreign mutual funds entered India, but hardly any of them survived in their original form.

The string of early and later entrants that have exited include Pioneer, BlackRock, Alliance Capital, Sun F&C, Morgan Stanley, Jardine Fleming, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs.

In contrast, the survival rate among Indian funds, some with passive foreign partners, is very high (JM Financial, DSP, Aditya Birla, Shriram, etc.)

Millions of 'proud Indians; would see this trend as conclusive evidence of the greatness of Indian entrepreneurs and quickly extrapolate this into the future ('India's century').

While Indian entrepreneurs and managers have indeed shown tremendous talent and execution skills, the 'Quit India' policy of foreign financial companies hasn't happened by design but by default.

Quite frankly, all the assumptions made in the mid-90s about the Indian middle class have turned out to be wrong.

There was no smooth surge in middle class prosperity for foreign businesses to tap into because the Indian economy continued to be mismanaged.

Productivity remained poor, corruption and taxes stayed high, and crony capitalism undermined infrastructure growth in the mid-2000s, resulting in bad loans of Rs 20 trillion in PSBs.

A surge in prosperity between 2005 and 2008 was purely due to a massive global boom across all geographies; it drove up the prices of many assets and created a short boom in financial services.

But the global financial crisis (GFC) hit India in 2008 and we were again reduced to the same struggle for the next decade.

Foreign firms, badly weakened by the GFC, got fed up and distracted, and began to exit.

Indian companies had no such option.

They slogged it out, bided their time, and steadily gained market share.

Hence, when disruptive opportunities like taking customers on board digitally happened, domestic banks were better placed to scale up.

Similarly, when the stock markets took off post-Covid, domestic mutual funds and broking firms grew rapidly.

While the financial sector threw up clear winners (Indians) and losers (foreigners), note the same has not happened in other sectors.

For example, foreign companies in personal products have not quit. Their powerful presence continues.

Debashis Basu is editor of moneylife.in and a trustee of the Moneylife Foundation

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has been engaging with officials from several audit firms over the past two months to streamline the process for the expansion of audit firms in the country, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Photograph: Reuters

These discussions have involved representatives from notable firms who have independently submitted their recommendations to the ministry.

It includes some officials from the Indian affiliates of the renowned Big Four.

According to documents reviewed by Business Standard, audit firms have proposed adjustments to domestic networking guidelines, addressing concerns such as the preservation of legacy and accreditation.

They have advocated for permitting Indian chartered accountants (CAs) and firms to establish networks with global counterparts, and vice versa.

Presently, no provision exists to facilitate such arrangements.

Letters to the ministry have also underscored the importance of enabling multi-disciplinary partnerships (MDPs) between Chartered Accountants and professionals from other fields such as IT and law.

The ministry did not respond to Business Standards questionnaire.

The government has been calling upon Indian CA firms to establish a domestic equivalent of the global Big Four, which comprises Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC.

Earlier this week, at an Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) event in Patna, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman asked the institute to set up an Indian auditing firm that will grow to feature among the Big Four and seek global clients.

Kaushal Kishore, a partner with BSR & Co, LLP, Chartered Accountants, said that such discussions are necessary and positive steps in the overall interest of the profession.

It is great to see conversations on this subject aimed towards fulfilling the Prime Ministers vision, added Madhuri Shahapure, Partner, Walker Chandiok & Co LLP.

Kishore said that at present, the CA profession is highly fragmented with 73 per cent of all firms operating as proprietorships.

Capacity building is an evolving and continuing process, and it takes significant time and efforts, besides investments, he added.

Sizeable Indian Big4 firms can be achieved if there is a clear definition of the term and an enablingregulatory environment, that is supported by all regulators of the profession, said Shahapure.
Following in Apples footsteps, Alphabet  Googles parent company  is in advanced talks with Foxconn to manufacture Pixel smartphones in Tamil Nadu, an industrial state which will also double up as drone-manufacturing hub for the US tech giant soon.

Photograph: Caitlin Ochs/Reuters

According to a state government release, officials from Google will soon visit Chennai to meet Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin to hold discussion on manufacturing of Google Pixel near Chennai.

Foxconn did not respond to queries from Business Standard.

An industry source privy to the development also confirmed it.

Foxconn may be manufacturing Pixel phones for Google through a newly-formed company under Foxconns subsidiary Bharat FIH.

"This will be done at an erstwhile Nokia campus in Sriperumbudur, he said.

Sriperumbudur is located 40-km southwest of Chennai.

Apart from the smartphones, the US tech giant is also going to start manufacturing drones in the state through its subsidiary Wing LLC.

According to the plan, Wing LLC will set up an assembly line for its drones in Tamil Nadu.

This comes after a meeting between Googles top executives and a team of officials led by state's Industries Minister TRB Rajaa in the United States recently.

The drone manufacturing by Wing LLC may give a fillip to Indias plans to develop itself as a drone exporting hub.

According to industry estimates, the drone market in India is expected to touch $13 billion by 2030, from around $2.71 billion in 2022.

Manufacturing of drones by Google in the state will be a huge boost to the overall investment eco-system in Tamil Nadu.

"It will be done by Alphabet arm Wing, said another source on condition of anonymity.

Though there is no confirmation from Google or Foxconn on the matter, the US giant had already lined up plans to start production of Pixel 8 smartphones in India and had announced the plan way back in October 2023.

There were also reports that Google had joined hands with Dixon Technologies, a domestic electronics manufacturer, to produce its flagship Pixel 8 smartphones in the country.

The move is interesting as other global majors like Apple and Samsung are also expanding their manufacturing presence in India.

Googles move comes at a time when Tamil Nadu is being transformed as the electronics hub of India.

Driven by Apples aggressive India push, the southern state now boasts of the highest tally of electronics goods exports in the financial year ended March 31, 2024 (FY24), ahead of Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh.

The state posted a 78 per cent increase in exports from $5.37 billion in FY23 to $9.56 billion in FY24.

This was around 33 per cent of the total electronics exports of the country.
The National Investigation Agency arrested a computer engineer on Friday for his alleged involvement in Bengaluru's Rameshwaram Cafe blast, officials said.

IMAGE: People are seen running for cover after explosion at Rameshwaram Cafe that was caught on CCTV camera, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, March 1, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Shoaib Ahmed Mirza alias Chhotu (35), a resident of Hubbali city in Karnataka, is the fifth person to be arrested in the case, they said.

Mirza is a computer engineer.

In 2016, he was sentenced to five years of rigorous imprisonment in a 2012 case related to a conspiracy hatched by Pakistan-based terror organisations Lashkar-e-Tayiba and Harkat-ul-Jihad-al Islami to carry out targeted killings of important personalities of the Hindu community in Bengaluru and Hubbali with an intent to disturb communal harmony, the officials said.

"Three days after a massive crackdown across four states in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the NIA on Friday arrested one more accused, identified as an ex-convict in an LeT terror conspiracy case," a statement issued by the NIA said.

Further investigations into the handler's role and the larger conspiracy behind the blast, which left several people injured and caused extensive damage to property on March 1, are continuing, it added.

The NIA, which took over the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case on March 3, had on April 12 arrested two key accused -- mastermind Adbul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa and Mussavir Hussain Shazib (the perpetrator of the attack) -- from their hideout in Kolkata, where they were staying under assumed identities.

The duo, along with co-accused Maaz Muneer Ahmed and Muzammil Shareef, a resident of Khalsa in Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru, have already been arrested by the NIA, the officials said.

They said in 2018, Mirza befriended and introduced Taahaa to an "online handler" suspected to be abroad.

Mirza further provided an e-mail address for encrypted communication between the handler and Taahaa, the officials said.

During the course of its investigation into the cafe blast, the NIA has conducted extensive searches at 29 locations across the country.

In a coordinated action, NIA teams searched multiple locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in connection with the case on May 21. During the operation, extensive searches were conducted at premises linked to 11 suspects, including Mirza, the officials said.

"Following the searches, Mirza was questioned by the NIA. After getting sufficient evidence, he was taken into custody on Friday for his involvement in the Rameshwaram cafe blast," an official said.

The investigations revealed that Mirza got involved in the fresh conspiracy after being released from jail in the LeT terror conspiracy case registered by the Karnataka Police on August 29, 2012.

The NIA took over the probe in the case on November 25, 2012. After thorough investigation, Mirza and 12 others were convicted and sentenced to jail.

All the 13 accused, including Mirza, had "pleaded guilty to all the crimes as charged by the NIA before the NIA special court, Bengaluru and requested the court for leniency for returning back to the society", an official said.

The court had, in 2016, convicted all of them on their plea of guilt. Mirza was sentenced to five years of rigorous imprisonment and slapped with a fine of Rs 3,000, the officials said.
The West Bengal crime investigation department on Friday claimed to have arrested a Bangladeshi, working as a butcher in Mumbai, from Bangoan in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal here for his alleged involvement in the grisly murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar whose body was cut into pieces and disposed of in different locations.

IMAGE: Bangladesh's Awami League MP Anwarul Azim Anar. Photograph: Anwarul Azim Anar on Facebook

The arrested man has admitted during interrogation to helping the other accused in chopping the victim's body in a flat in New Town area near Kolkata before disposing of the parts in different locations, a police officer claimed.

"The accused is a butcher by profession. He had entered India illegally and was staying in Mumbai hiding his identity.

"He was called to Kolkata a couple of months back as a part of the plan to kill Anar. He has admitted that he was an accomplice to the four men who murdered the politician inside the flat and helped them in skinning and chopping the body," the police officer told PTI.

The arrested man, when produced before a court in Barasat on Friday afternoon, was sent to the remand of the CID for 12 days, he said.

CID sleuths have confirmed the murder of Anar, an Awami League MP from Jhenaidah-4 segment in Bangladesh, on Wednesday after the victim went missing from Kolkata on May 13.

A team of CID officers were in the process of searching for the victim's body parts at the Krishnamati village in Bhangar where the butcher had led them, he said.

The CID has employed deepwater divers at ponds in Bhangar also to find out the body parts of the Bangladeshi politician, he said, adding that drones were also used for the same purpose.

An initial probe revealed that the MP's close friend Akhtaruzzaman, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime, the senior police officer said.

"We will talk to him (butcher) to get a clearer view of the crime. How did he get in touch with the US-based friend of Anar and who all were his partners," the officer said.

A team of the West Bengal CID visited Bangladesh on Thursday to interrogate the three accused who were arrested by Bangladesh police in connection with the case.

The MP's friend has a flat in Kolkata, and is probably in the US at present, he said.

Circumstantial evidence indicated that the MP was first strangulated and killed after which his body was chopped into pieces, police claimed.

The search for the missing MP, who reportedly arrived in Kolkata on May 12 to undergo medical treatment, began after Gopal Biswas, a resident of Baranagar in north Kolkata and an acquaintance of the Bangladeshi politician, filed a complaint with the local police on May 18.

Anar had stayed at Biswas's house upon arrival.

In his complaint, Biswas stated that Anar left his Baranagar residence for a doctor's appointment in the afternoon of May 13, while stating that he would be back home for dinner.

Biswas claimed that the Bangladeshi MP went incommunicado on May 17, which prompted him to file a missing complaint a day later.
A three-year-old girl was allegedly kidnapped, raped and killed by her neighbour in southwest Delhi, the police said on Friday.

Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: ANI Photo

The girl's body was found dumped in a drain and the accused was arrested after a brief exchange of fire, they said.

According to the police, the incident occurred on Wednesday evening when the victim's family reported the kidnapping of their daughter from the Kapashera area.

"A police team was sent to the spot immediately. The victim's mother told police that her daughter was playing outside of the house at around 6 pm when her neighbour kidnapped her" said the DCP.

Based on her complaint, an FIR was lodged and a massive search operation was launched to trace the girl and the accused. Police examined the CCTV footage, he said.

"In one camera, at 7.05 pm, the accused was seen with the girl going towards a drain. In the same camera, he was caught returning alone without the girl at around 7.25 pm," DCP Meena said.

The accused was traced and detained at about 11.55 pm, the same day from a bus heading towards Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, he said.

"He was interrogated and initially denied having played any role whatsoever in the kidnapping. But during sustained interrogation, he broke down and admitted to having killed and dumped the girl in a marshy drain located at the border of Gurgaon and Kapashera," DCP said.

The police said that the accused then led the team to the drain, where they launched a search operation, he said. The crime and Forensic Science Laboratory teams were also called to the spot, he said.

"After a long search operation lasting more than an hour in the dark, the girl's body was finally found dumped in the marshy drain," he added.

"At that moment, the accused sensed an opportunity to escape. He grabbed the loaded service revolver of a police officer, tried to escape from custody, and fired at the team. The police fired in self-defence and hit him. He was immediately rushed to Indira Gandhi Hospital," Meena said.

"The body was examined by the FSL and crime team. The accused was arrested and is now in judicial custody. The body was sent for post-mortem," Meena said.

"The autopsy report confirmed that the girl was raped. We are adding 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO Act) to the earlier Sections 363 (abduction), 302 (murder) of the IPC," he added.
National security advisor Ajit Doval on Friday suggested that various central armed police forces of the country should have "jointness" and interoperability among themselves like the ongoing plan for the defence forces.

IMAGE: NSA Ajit Doval waves to the gathering during the 21st Border Security Force Investiture Ceremony and Rustamji Memorial Lecture, in New Delhi, May 24, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

The about ten lakh strength central armed police forces include the Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Central Industrial Security Force and the Sashastra Seema Bal apart from the National Disaster Response Force and National Security Guard and they are deployed for rendering a variety of internal security duties in the hinterland and at the borders.

"Should we think about the jointness in our CPOs (central police organisations). Jointness where we can have interoperability in weapons and other things. We are a huge force now. We have also got the same type of duties, inter-mingling duties at many places whether it's a question of procurement, communication training standardisation," he said.

In defence forces it (jointness) is being done now. We are thinking of theatre commands. One officer from the Air force probably controlling the Navy and Air force and in many areas that jointness has been brought about. There (in defence forces) it was more difficult because their equipment is very difficult, their doctrines are different, their command and control systems are different but here (CAPFs) it is almost the same, Doval said.

"So, if we bring (jointness in CAPFs), we not only save money and it is not for saving money it also brings about greater homogeneity.

"Whenever the requirements are there, either in war or in peace. If we find we have to deploy 30 battalions of CPOs doesn't matter. If BSF battalions are not available, CRPF can also do the same thing. Their equipment, training, communication, frequencies are the same...they will march," Doval said, making it clear that this was his personal idea as a police officer and as a man of security and not as an NSA.

He was delivering the Rustamji Memorial Lecture organised by the Border Security Force on its 21st investiture ceremony. He said border guarding forces like the BSF had a very important role to play in ensuring the country's security.

KF Rustamji was the founding father and the first director general of the BSF, the world's largest border guarding force with about 3 lakh personnel tasked to guard Indian borders with Pakistan on the west and Bangladesh on the east.

Doval also said India would have progressed at a much faster pace had its borders been more secure, defined and not under "adversarial dispossession", highlighting that the country's power has grown immensely over the last 10 years.

"India's economic progress probably could have been faster if we had more secure borders. In the foreseeable future I don't think that our borders are going to be as secure as we will require for our fast economic growth."

"So, the responsibility on the border guarding forces becomes very very heavy. They have got to remain on alert 24x7 and they have got to see our national interest...," he said.

Borders not only determine the limit of our sovereignty, they are not only important for our territorial integrity but they also have an impact on our internal security and stability, Doval, a former head of the intelligence bureau, said.

"The limit of our sovereignty is the place at the border where our soldier is able to go and put his foot down. Zameen par jo kabza hai woh apna hai, baki toh sab adalat or kachahri ka kaam hai. Usse farak nahi padta (The land which is in our possession is ours, the rest is legal matter and is immaterial)," the NSA said.

Doval told a gathering comprising various CAPF and other central police organisations heads and personnel that "retarders" related to national security need to be checked as a good number of countries have undergone degradation because of "one single factor" like internal instability.

Pakistan got broken into two because it could not manage the internal security in its eastern wing, he said, citing example of the Soviet Union that was "balkanised" into various other countries and some African countries.

"When we do strategic planning and thinking, it is necessary for us to estimate and have clarity about our borders," he said.

Doval said it was important for a country like India to keep a check on the retarders as the country has achieved much in the last ten years.

"When somebody will be writing the history of this country...they will be able to see that accretion in national power was achieved and amongst the retarders (was) vulnerability of our borders was a major factor," the NSA said.

He said had borders with India's neighbours-- on the west (Pakistan) and north (China)-- been secured, defined and not in a state of adversarial dispossession, it was important to see how much this has affected the nation's internal and external security.

The NSA said the retarders were a "weight" on our internal security, like terrorism, radical thoughts, drug trafficking, arms running, organised crime and human trafficking etc.

It has also got a bearing on the "socio-economic security" of the country like illegal migration and radicalisation..., he said.

"Terrorism, insurgency in the north east, drugs...that impinge on our internal security apparatus probably cannot be controlled unless our borders are controlled. So border guarding forces have got a great responsibility in this thing...," Doval said.

The NSA said India was changing very fast and, in the next 10 years, "we will be a USD 10 trillion economy and the third largest economy" terming these as a "major achievement".

India, he said, has the world's largest workforce and technically it will be the world's most advanced country in many fields like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, high technology and various other areas of defence, security manufacturing and others.

Doval said India will become a very major global supply hub and military power.

He said India, which was an importer of weapons and equipment, was now exporting these items, as in the last fiscal, it exported weapons valued at $2.5 billion.

We are emerging as a major exporter now. In this changing India what is going to happen...well prosperity guarantees security to some extent and it adds to your vulnerability in much larger areas. But all these are the ingredients of the national power, what the Chinese call the comprehensive national power. India's comprehensive national power will be extremely high..., Doval said.

He praised the Modi government saying during the last ten years, the country has seen a government which gave a "very very high attention to security and management of our borders".

There is no Diwali in which our prime minister (Narendra Modi) has not gone to the farthest frontiers of the country, he said.

The prime minister wants to celebrate with soldiers...he asked the governors of 16 border states, cabinet ministers and bureaucrats to tour these areas, got a survey of 12,000 border villages and he is one political leader at the top who understands the gravity and importance of borders, the NSA said.

He stressed the central police forces to invest in technology upgradation citing the example of Iran firing "series of missiles" on Israel recently and out of these 1,500 missiles, 99 percent were stopped and only 2-3 could hit the targets.

"That's the strength of technology," he said.

He said having an interface with the local border population was important, citing the example of Israel when the latter country's "cutting-edge intelligence" failed and thousands of Hamas people infiltrated.

However, being a large country, we have got many eyes and we have got our local population (on the borders)..., he said.

"Please befriend the border people...they should not feel that you are there to control them, police them, regulate them or make their life difficult but you should provide them support," he told the forces.

You cannot defend a border where the people are hostile to you, the NSA said.

He said that the country has to have a transformation from being the biggest to being the best.
IMAGE: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Narendra D Modi being felicitated during a public meeting in support of Saket Mishra, the BJP candidate from the Shravasti constituency, Uttar Pradesh, May 22, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Polling for the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024.

58 seats will go to the polls across 8 states.

Phase 6: Candidates' Financial Background

According to data collected by the Association for Democratic Reforms, of the 886 candidates analysed from the total of 889 candidates in the fray, 343 are crorepatis.

Of these crorepatis, 48 are Bharatiya Janata Party candidates, followed by the Bahujan Samaj Party's 23 and 20 of the Congress.

Phase 6: Candidates with Criminal Records

When it comes to criminal candidates, 183 candidates have declared criminal cases against them in the sixth round of elections.

143 candidates have declared serious criminal cases registered against them.

The maximum number of criminal candidates in the sixth phase belong to the BJP (28) followed by the Samajwadi Party (9) and Congress (8).

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
A court in Pune on Friday remanded Vishal Agarwal, father of a 17-year-old allegedly involved in a car crash that killed two persons in Kalyani Nagar area of the city, and five other accused in the case in judicial custody till June 7.

IMAGE: he luxury car that hit a motorcycle killing two persons at Kalyani Nagar in Pune, May 19, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

The prosecution had demanded extension of their police custody for further probe.

But the court remanded Agarwal and others including the owner and employees of two liquor-serving establishments -- where the teenager had allegedly consumed alcohol before his Porsche car knocked down two software professionals on a motorbike -- in judicial custody instead.

Attempts were made to make it appear that the minor was not at the wheel and some adult person was driving the car at the time of the accident in the early hours of May 19, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar had said earlier in the day.

Agarwal and the other five accused were produced before additional sessions judge S P Ponkshe after their police custody came to an end.

The other accused are Naman Bhutada, owner of Cosie Restaurant, its manager Sachin Katkar; manager of Black Club Sandip Sangale and its employees Jayesh Gavkar and Nitesh Shevani.

Agarwal, a real estate developer, was arrested under sections 75 and 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act, while the others were booked for allegedly serving alcohol to an underage person.

Section 75 deals with "willful neglect of a child, or exposing a child to mental or physical illnesses," while section 77 deals with supplying a child with intoxicating liquor or drugs.

According to the FIR , despite knowing that his son did not have a valid driving license, Agarwal (50) gave him the car, thus endangering the teenager's life, and allowed him to party even when Agarwal knew that he consumed liquor.

During the hearing on Friday, the prosecution while seeking extension of the police custody told the court that the juvenile had paid a bill of Rs 47,000 at Cosie Restaurant that night, and the police wanted to find out details of the bank account from which the payment was made.

Section 420 (cheating) of the IPC has been added to the charges against Agarwal over non-payment of RTO fees towards the Porsche's registration, the prosecutor said.

Police also wanted to bring the driver of the car, who was allegedly on the passenger seat when the accident took place, face to face with Agarwal for the purpose of probe, the court was told.

The police had seized a register from the entry gate of the juvenile's house which showed that he had taken out the high-end car on Saturday evening.

They had also recovered footage of CCTV cameras from the house and it was to be sent for forensic examination, the prosecution said.

The prosecution also told the court that police had seized CCTV recording from the juvenie's house, and investigation indicated that there was tampering with CCTV footage.

"As tampering has been done, further investigation with analysis by a cyber expert is necessary," the prosecutor said.

Opposing further police custody, defence lawyer advocate Prashant Patil objected to the addition of section 420 of IPC (cheating) in he case.

"The prosecution has argued that my client cheated the state government by not paying the RTO fees of Rs 1,758 towards the registration of the car. This was not needed as it would open a Pandora's box and everything under the sky would be under 420," he argued.

The police had already seized CCTV footage and other pieces of evidence and there was no need for Agarwal to remain in police custody, Patil added.

Advocate S K Jain, who appeared under other accused, made the same argument.

After hearing the arguments, the judge sent all six accused in judicial custody till June 7.

The accused are expected to file bail applications on Monday, the lawyers said.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'sent by God' comment, albeit without naming the country's top leader.

IMAGE: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addresses a rally at Dum Dum, in North 24 Parganas. Photograph: ANI Photo

Speaking at an election rally in Mathurapur in the Sunderbans area of South 24 Parganas district, she claimed that faced with the phobia of a certain election defeat, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders were saying all kinds of things that made no sense.

Dripping with sarcasm, Banerjee, in an oblique reference to PM Modi, said, He is now calling himself the son of God. He claims that, unlike us, he doesn't have biological parents. He says he has been sent by God. I ask, does God send someone to orchestrate riots or spread lies through advertisements or jail people in the name of NRC exercise?

Does God send his emissary to sponsor hooliganism in the name of CAA or stop funds for 100-day work or prevent rural houses from being built? Does God go back on his promise of depositing Rs 15 lakhs in people's bank accounts? God cannot do such things, she added.

The chief minister's remark came in the backdrop of PM Modi's interview to a national TV channel where he reportedly said, Until my mother was alive, I used to think I was born biologically. After her demise, when I look at my experiences, I am convinced that I was sent by God. This strength is not from my body. It has been given to me by God. That's why God also gave me the ability, strength, pure-heartedness, and inspiration to do this. I'm nothing but an instrument that God has sent.

Banerjee further ridiculed Modi for BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra's controversial remark about Lord Jagannath being a devotee of the prime minister, which Patra had later retracted.

"If Lord Jagannath is a devotee of Modi babu as claimed by his workers, then shouldn't we build a temple in his name, offer pujas and prasad before his photo and engage a priest for him? We can do all that, but he shouldn't play politics by saying such things, Banerjee said.
More than 23 years after the complaint was registered, a Delhi court on Friday convicted Narmada Bachao Andolan leader and activist Medha Patkar in a defamation case lodged against her by VK Saxena, the incumbent lieutenant governor, saying reputation is one of the most valuable assets and significantly impacts one's standing in society.

IMAGE: Social activist Medha Patkar along with others stage a protest over various issues after paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti, at Mahatma Gandhi Udyan, in Thane, Maharashtra, October 3, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Holding Patkar's statements as defamatory per se and crafted to incite negative perceptions, metropolitan magistrate Raghav Sharma convicted the activist of the offence of criminal defamation under the IPC which entails a maximum punishment of simple imprisonment of up to two years or fine or both.

Saxena had filed the case in November 2000 when he was the president of the National Council of Civil Liberties over a "defamatory" press release issued against him by Patkar.

Reputation is one of the most valuable assets a person can possess, as it affects both personal and professional relationships and can significantly impact an individual's standing in society, the magistrate said in his 55-page judgment.

He said Patkar's statements calling Saxena a coward, not a patriot and alleging his involvement in hawala transactions were not only defamatory per se but also crafted to incite negative perceptions.

Also, the accusation that the complainant was mortgaging the people of Gujarat and their resources to foreign interests was a direct attack on his integrity and public service, the magistrate said.

The court said Saxena's testimony, supported by two court witnesses, showed Patkar falsely associated him with activities contrary to his public stance.

It said Patkar failed to provide any evidence to counter these claims or to show that she did not intend or foresee the harm caused by her statements.

The resulting inquiries and doubts raised among the complainant's acquaintances, as well as the shift in perception highlighted by the witnesses, underscore the significant damage to his (Saxena's) reputation, the court said.

It said it was clear that Patkar's actions were deliberate and malicious, aimed at tarnishing the complainant's good name, and indeed caused substantial harm to his standing and credit in the eyes of the public.

Noting the evidence before it, the court said it has been proved beyond reasonable doubt that Patkar had published the statement knowing that it would harm Saxena's reputation.

The accused, therefore, committed an offence punishable under Section 500 (defamation) of the IPC. She is hereby convicted of the same, it said.

The arguments on the quantum of sentences will be heard on May 30.

In its order, the court considered three questions-whether the press note was proved to have been issued by Patkar; whether the press note made certain imputations against Saxena; and whether the accused by publishing the imputations intended to harm his reputation.

It said there was no reason to believe Patkar's "bald averments and excuses" against having issued the statement and that the gravity and precision of the accusations highlighted that her action was deliberate and that her primary objective was to undermine Saxena's credibility and integrity in public.

Patkar and Saxena have been locked in a legal tussle since 2000 after she filed a suit against him for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan.

Saxena had also filed two cases against her for making derogatory remarks against him on a TV channel and issuing a defamatory press statement.
The Supreme Court on Friday said it cannot go by sentiments and has to act in accordance with law, as it refused to entertain a petition seeking contempt action for alleged non-compliance with the apex court's order on protection of properties of people displaced during the Manipur violence.

A vacation bench of Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal said it was not satisfied with the contention that a case of contempt was made out against the respondents, including the chief secretary of Manipur, and the petitioners can take recourse to remedy which may be available under the law.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for Manipur, told the bench that no case of contempt was made out, and the state government and the Centre were on the ground doing everything they can to assuage public concerns.

"The effort is to keep the pot boiling, which is very unfortunate," Bhati said, adding that the State was duty bound to protect all and can file an updated status report on the issue.

The top court was hearing a petition claiming the respondents had committed contempt of its September 25 last year order on protecting the properties of those displaced during the ethnic conflict.

"Who according to you are in contempt?" the bench asked the petitioner's counsel who said the chief secretary and others are.

"They are not the encroachers," the bench shot back.

When the advocate said the petitioners are living outside Manipur and are not in a position to go anywhere near Imphal, the bench said, "That does not mean that notice be issued against chief secretary."

Bhati referred to the September 25 order last year which said the state of Manipur and the Centre are given one week to respond to the directions, including on ensuring protection of properties of displaced persons and preventing their encroachment.

"We had filed a status report. We can file an updated status report," she said, adding the State was duty bound to protect its citizens and their properties.

"Manipur is still in a situation of uneasy calm as we speak. There are conflicting views and the state and central governments are trying to assuage everyone," Bhati said.

When the counsel for the petitioners claimed that their properties have been looted in the presence of police and they can place those videos before the court, the law officer objected to it and said wild allegations were being made.

"They (authorities) are duty bound to protect the properties. They are duty bound to carry out the orders of this court and the government. No doubt about it," the bench said.

Observing that no contempt was made out against the chief secretary and the other respondents, the bench observed, "Don't pressure the officers like this."

It said the petitioners may file appropriate proceedings as permissible under the law.

"All sympathies for you. Your properties need to be protected but that does not mean that we have to issue contempt notice to the respondents.," the bench said.

When the petitioners' lawyer said, "Your lordships may kindly see the message that goes out today," the bench observed, "We have to go as per the law. We cannot go by sentiments."

The bench said it was not satisfied with the claim that contempt proceedings were maintainable against the respondents in connection with the September 25, 2023 order.

"It is needless to say that petitioners shall be at liberty to take recourse to the remedy as may be available under the law if they are aggrieved by any other action or inaction on the part of the respondents," it said.

Manipur descended into chaos and violence in May last year over a high court order directing the state government to consider including the non-tribal Meitei community in the list of Scheduled Tribes.

More than 170 people have been killed and several hundred others injured since ethnic violence first broke out in the state on May 3 last year when a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei community's demand for ST status.
A court in Mumbai on Friday sentenced Parvez Tak to death in the 2011 murder of his stepdaughter and actor Laila Khan, her mother and four siblings, stating that the act of the accused was "not only barbaric, but also inhuman of the highest degree".

IMAGE: Actress Laila Khan.



It said the offence has certainly shocked the collective conscience of the society and therefore falls under the "rarest of rare" category, the court ruled.

Additional sessions judge Sachin Pawar had on May 9 found Tak guilty of the murder and destruction of evidence, among other offences under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the quantum of his sentence was decided on Friday.

Laila Khan, her mother Shelina Patel and her four siblings were killed at their bungalow at Igatpuri in Nashik district of Maharashtra in February 2011.

Tak was living with Shelina Patel as a family member and as per the order it was not established if he was married to her.

The killings came to light a few months later when the Jammu and Kashmir police arrested Tak. The decomposed bodies of the victims were recovered from the bungalow later.

"All the six deceased persons are victims of savage attack by the accused. The murders are committed in an extremely grotesque and revolting manner. The five women victims were vulnerable and the accused took its disadvantage," the court observed.

It stated that the execution of the act indicates that these were "cold-blooded murders".

The accused committed the crime "cold-heartedly" and "meticulously planned screening of evidence", which remained unnoticed for almost 17 months after the commission of the offence, the court noted.

The act of the accused making disclosures in police custody, after realising that he cannot escape from clutches of law, cannot be accepted as remorse or repentance, the order said.

The judge, in his 250-page judgment copy, stated the act of the accused without "justification or provocation" has led to the elimination of the entire family of the deceased Shelina Patel.

"The act of the accused is not only barbaric but also inhuman of the highest degree. The offence has certainly shocked the collective conscience of the society. Therefore, in my view the case falls in the category of rarest of rare case," the court held.

The judge was of the view that considering the "magnitude and enormity of the crime", its ghastly nature, the accused is liable to suffer the maximum punishment for the offence committed by him as sentencing life imprisonment would not be the adequate punishment.

"Thus, after going through the entire facts and circumstances of the case and after considering the legal principles on sentencing, I come to the conclusion that the accused deserves to be awarded the death penalty," he added.

As per the case of prosecution, all the bodies were found buried and invariably, there are major fractures on the skulls of each of them. In some cases, skeletons, pieces of the skull were found separately.

It had claimed that the accused wanted to earn money by compelling the daughters of Shelina to go for prostitution to Dubai and on their refusal to accede to his demand, he eliminated all the victims by committing the alleged offence.

The court, however, noted that the prosecution failed to produce any such corroborative piece of evidence.

"There is absolutely no evidence to show any connection of the accused with Dubai to link him with such a motive as claimed by the prosecution," it said.

Further, the court held that circumstance in the form of motive is not clearly established in the evidence and it is a very weak circumstance against the accused.

Special public prosecutor Ujwal Nikam, who resigned from the post to contest the Lok Sabha election, had conducted the trial in the case and had examined 41 witnesses.

He said that though there was no direct evidence, there was a complete chain of circumstantial evidence to connect the accused with the case.

The court said that it is firmly established in the evidence of the prosecution that the victims' bodies were found buried in the premises of the bungalow of the victims at Koturwadi in Igatpuri, and the place of concealment of dead bodies was discovered on the basis of a disclosure statement made by the accused.

It was of the opinion that these circumstances form a complete chain, which "unerringly points towards the accused to infer that in all human probability", he must have murdered the victims and buried their bodies to conceal the offence.

"Therefore, I hold the accused guilty for the offence under section 302(murder) and 201(causing disappearance of evidence) of IPC," the court said.
An attempt was made to make it appear that the Porsche that fatally knocked down two persons in Kalyani Nagar area in Pune was not driven by a 17-year-old but by his family's driver, the Pune police chief said on Friday as two police officials were suspended for lapses committed during the probe.

IMAGE: The Porsche car that hit a motorcycle at Kalyani Nagar in Pune, May 19, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

A local court remanded the six accused arrested in the case, including the teenager's father Vishal Agarwal, in judicial custody even though police sought their further custody.

Late in the evening, the probe was transferred to the crime branch from the Yerawada police station where the initial case was registered..

Elsewhere, the Madhya Pradesh-based parents of the two IT professionals who were killed in the accident on May 19 demanded that the Supreme Court monitor the probe and the trial be held in their state.

There was enough evidence showing that the teenager was driving the car, Pune police commissioner Amitesh Kumar told reporters.

We have the CCTV footage of him (juvenile) drinking liquor in the pub.....He was fully in his senses, he had full knowledge that due to his conduct, such an accident, where IPC section 304 is applicable, can happen, Kumar said. Section 304 deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder.

On reports of the juvenile being served pizza after the incident, Kumar said "a pizza party didn't happen in the police station."

"But yes, something had happened on which we have initiated an internal investigation, he added.

During our investigation, it has clearly emerged that the juvenile was driving the car and we have already collected all the necessary chronological evidence. For example, when the juvenile left the house, the entry on the security register shows that he left with the car, the commissioner said.

As per the police, the driver employed by the teenager's family was in the car. Kumar said attempts were made to show that he was at the wheel and not the teen when the vehicle fatally knocked down two persons on motorbike around 3 am on Sunday.

The commissioner conceded that while the juvenile was sent to Sassoon General Hospital around 9 am on Sunday, his blood samples were collected at 11 pm, but maintained that "blood report is not the pillar of our case. The report was yet to be received.

In the initial FIR, Section 304 A (death by negligence) was applied but it was revised with section 304 the same day as the crime warranted that (more serious) section, Kumar said.

There are complaints that some eyewitnesses were pressured, he said. If such things come to the fore, strict action will be taken against the police officer concerned, he added.

Vadgaon Sheri's NCP MLA Sunil Tingre did visit the police station after the accident, the commissioner said, but added that "it won't be correct to say that the direction of the investigation was impacted due to this.

After the accident, the minor was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board which granted him bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay. Following an outcry over quick bail and the police's review plea, the Board on Wednesday remanded the teen, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, to the observation home till June 5.

The police arrested Agarwal for 'exposing a child to danger', and the owner and employees of two bars where the teen had consumed alcohol for 'serving liquor to an underage person'. On Friday, the prosecution sought extension of their police custody, but the sessions court remanded all six accused in judicial custody till June 7. They are expected to file bail pleas next week.

Soon after commissioner Kumar said that inquiry was underway into alleged lapses on part of police, inspector Rahul Jagdale and assistant police inspector Vishwanath Todkari of Yerawada police station were suspended for "late reporting" and "dereliction of duty".

Parents of Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta, both 24-year-old IT professionals who died in the June 19 accident, said they will not rest till they got justice.

Suresh Kumar Koshta, Ashwini's father, told reporters in Jabalpur that the Supreme Court should monitor the investigation and trial.

"I am going to fight for justice till my last breath," Anish's father Om Prakash Awadhiya said over the phone. The trial should be held in Madhya Pradesh and not in Pune, he demanded.
Amid the prevailing fierce summer heat, the national capital is all set for polling on Saturday after a record two-month long campaigning, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance or INDIA bloc partners pitted in a direct, one-on-one contest in all the seven Lok Sabha constituencies.

IMAGE: Polling officials leave after collecting the electronic voting machines and other election materials on the eve of the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls, at Gol Market in New Delhi, May 24, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

The INDIA bloc partners have reached a pre-poll understanding for the elections in Delhi.

While the Aam Aadmi Party is contesting on four seats, the Congress has fielded candidates for the remaining three seats.

This is the first Lok Sabha election in which the AAP and the Congress have fielded joint candidates against the BJP, posing a challenge to the party ruling the Centre.

A total of 1.52 crore voters, including 82 lakh male and 69 lakh female voters as well as 1,228 third gender, are eligible to cast their votes at more than 13,000 polling booths in 2,627 places across the seven seats.

Voting will start from 7 am with special arrangements at the polling booths to help the voters exercise their franchise amid scorching heat.

The weather department has sounded a yellow alert on the polling day with maximum temperature expected around 44 degrees Celsius.

Over 2.52 lakh first-time voters will cast their maiden votes in the elections in the city.

The electoral battle in Delhi had its fair share of twists and turns with the BJP dropping its six out of seven sitting MPs replacing them with freshers and the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance constituents entering into a seat-sharing agreement.

The AAP faced a major jolt with its national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal being arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case, hardly a week after announcement of the polls, on March 21.

After 50 days, Kejriwal was granted an interim bail by the Supreme Court to campaign. He came out of Tihar on May 10 energising his party cadre and supporters with a whirlwind tour of the city in the road shows and public meetings in favour of not only the AAP candidates but also its ally, the Congress.

The AAP, has fielded Kuldeep Kumar from East Delhi seat, Mahabal Mishra from West Delhi, Somnath Bharti from New Delhi and Sahi Ram Pahalwan from South Delhi.

The Congress has fielded J P Agarwal from Chandni Chowk, Kanhaiya Kumar from North East Delhi and Udit Raj from North West Delhi constituency.

The BJP candidates include Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi, the only sitting MP from Delhi fielded by the party again; Ramvir Singh Bidhuri from South Delhi, Bansuri Swaraj from New Delhi, Harsh Deep Malhotra from East Delhi, Yogendra Chandolia from North West Delhi, Praveen Khandelwal from Chandni Chowk and Kamaljeet Sehrawat from West Delhi.

The BJP that won all the seven seats in Delhi in 2014 and 2019 with huge margins is gearing up for a clean sweep third time in a row.

"People of Delhi have immense trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat' and the BJP is going to win back all the seven seats with even bigger margins as compared to 2019," said Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva.

Kejriwal has also repeatedly asserted that the BJP will be out of power after results of the Lok Sabha polls are declared on June 4, and the INDIA bloc candidates will win all the seven seats in Delhi.

West Delhi constituency with 25.87 lakh votes is the largest Lok Sabha constituency in the national capital while the New Delhi constituency with 15.25 lakh is the smallest. North West Delhi constituency is the only reserved seat among the seven.

Several dignitaries and eminent personalities including President of India Droupadi Murmu, Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri are also voters of the city.

A massive security apparatus has been put in place with 60,000 personnel on the ground to ensure peaceful, free and fair polls, Delhi police officials said.

In view of the security needs, 51 companies of paramilitary forces and 13,500 home guards from Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, and drones and CCTV cameras, will also strengthen the arrangements.

Around 33,000 police and para military personnel will be deputed at the polling centres including 429 sensitive ones, said a senior Delhi police officer.

With 13,637 and four auxiliary -- including 2,891 critical -- polling stations in Delhi, 70 pink booths will also be set up, which will be handled by women officials only. Along with this, 70 model polling booths will be set up, they said.

Delhi CEO P Krishnamurthy has said based on the directives from the Election Commission and the IMD forecast of an intense heat wave, comprehensive measures have been implemented to address the expected high temperatures of 44 to 45 degrees Celsius.

"Our preparations are complete. Shaded areas will be established at all polling stations, with fully covered waiting zones equipped with coolers and fans to ensure voter comfort. We have ensured the availability of drinking water, toilets, ramps, and wheelchairs at every polling station under the Assured

Minimum Facility Policy so that no voter faces any inconvenience," he said.

The national capital witnessed intense campaigning for Lok Sabha polls with the Prime Minister seeking vote for the BJP and its candidates in his two poll rallies.

Star campaigners of the BJP including party chief J P Nadda, Union ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari and Piyush Goyal among others; chief ministers of party-ruled states including Yogi Aditya Nath of UP, Himanta Biswa Sarma of Assam, Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand, Pramod Sawant of Goa and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadanavis among others too campaigned for the party candidates.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi held three public meetings for the party candidates. Besides, Kejriwal and his wife Sunita Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Delhi government ministers Atishi, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot also campaigned for the AAP candidates.
When voters go to the polls this year to cast their ballots, they will be participating in an electoral process that has required countless hours of preparation and training. But many voters aren't aware of everything that goes on behind the scenes.

The Tribune sat down with Secretary of State Michael Howe and state Election Director Erika White to discuss election security and administration in North Dakota ahead of this year's primary on June 11.

"Our office's role isn't to encourage candidates or even encourage get-out-the-vote efforts -- those political parties and organizations do that," White said. "Our office's role is to provide the public with trusted sources of information, let them know how to vote, where to vote, and what the process is associated with that."

Here's everything you need to know about the state's electoral process.

How to vote

North Dakota is the only state in the country that doesn't have a voter registration system. Instead, voters are required to present a form of valid photo identification to cast their ballots. Valid forms of ID include a driver's license, a non-driver ID, a tribal ID, a tribal letter or a long-term care certificate.

Absentee ballots, which are mailed ballots that voters who can't make it to the polls can receive after completing an application process, are distributed only upon request. Some counties are considered vote-by-mail counties -- this is up to county discretion -- which means that they mail out applications for absentee ballots to all voting-age residents, while other counties require voters to request an absentee ballot application.

In Morton County, applications are not mailed en masse, and are instead available upon request, according to county employees. Both counties also link to an online application on their websites.

These ballots can be returned by using drop boxes in each county, as well as by mail. Absentee ballots require the inclusion of a voter's state identification number or personal information that can be verified against the voter record, and signatures on the absentee application and the ballot itself are compared. Ballots must be dropped off or postmarked by the day before the election to be counted.

In-person voting is available on Election Day and, in many municipalities, at certain dates ahead of Election Day. In Morton County early voting is available at the Morton Mandan Public Library from June 5 through June 8 and again on June 10.

Safety and security

All of North Dakota's polling locations are run using the same system -- a practice that doesn't happen in every state.

Howe said this centralized system streamlines the voting process and ensures consistency across the state. Polling places will check voters in using iPads that update a central voter file, making it so that once a voter has checked in, another ballot can't be cast at another location. If a voter also requests an absentee ballot, the first ballot received will be counted as the resident's official vote, and election officials will stop or not count an attempt to cast a second ballot.

Howe said North Dakota's use of paper ballots is another way the state ensures voters can be confident that their ballots have been cast correctly: Though a voting machine may fill the ballot out, every voter will have the opportunity to review the ballot before turning it in.

None of the state's voting machines or election tabulators connect to the internet, Howe said, and the state keeps the paper ballots as a record of election results as well.

State electoral processes have gotten national attention in recent years, largely because of former President Donald Trump's unfounded claim that the 2020 election was stolen. Many pivotal states for that election have since conducted recounts or reviews of the results, all of which have confirmed those results.

That attention has put more of a spotlight on elected officials in roles like Howe's. But he said he welcomes the scrutiny, as he believes it can arm voters with more knowledge.

"Elections have been in the spotlight for the last three or four election cycles," Howe said. "I don't think people really thought about 'How do I vote? How are our votes counted?' Arming the public with that information, that education, I think provides more confidence that your vote is being counted accurately and securely."

State Auditor Josh Gallion in 2022 said an audit of North Dakota's electoral process in the wake of the 2020 election found that the state's elections are "incredibly secure."

Preparation and training

Howe is the state's top elections official, but much of the work on Election Day itself is done by county-level officials and their volunteers. The Secretary of State's Office instead serves primarily as a coordinating and supporting office during election season, White said.

County auditors oversee the county-level election administration process and have been preparing for this year's elections "since the last election," White said. County workers are responsible for on-site administration on Election Day, as well as equipment tests, absentee ballot administration and verification, and communication with the Secretary of State's Office, she added.

County auditors also collaborate with the state to prepare training materials for volunteers, White said. This year, a select group of auditors across the state convened to prepare tips and best practices to disperse to other counties, she added.

"There's a lot of moving parts leading up to Election Day," White said. "And a lot of it is the preparation and making sure that everything is 100% accurate."

A proposed change

There's a chance that North Dakota's electoral process could be overhauled: A proposed ballot initiative is circulating that would effectively redefine what election administration looks like, including shifting all votes to hand-counting.

The measure, which supporters have dubbed the Election Integrity Act, includes restrictions on early voting and voting by mail, with unsupervised public ballot boxes and the majority of mail-in voting being outlawed. It would also explicitly outlaw the use of electronic voting machines, and increase the threshold of support required for the Legislature to place a constitutional amendment on any statewide ballot to a two-thirds supermajority in each chamber.

Supporters of the measure have said it's an effort to ensure election integrity, expressing skepticism with the effectiveness of the state's current system. The measure won't be on the June ballot, but it could qualify for the November general election if petitioners submit at least 31,164 verified signatures by July 8.

Howe said he is incredibly concerned about the damage the ballot measure would cause. According to the state Constitution, ballots must be counted with no breaks -- and more than 350,000 votes were cast in the state's 2020 general election, with potentially dozens of questions on each ballot.

As a result, hand-counting would become incredibly time-consuming and require extensive manpower, Howe said, adding that he believes the measure would introduce more opportunities for error.

"This measure would do the exact opposite of securing our election," he said. "I think it opens it up to many, many more problems if this were to pass."

North Dakota's statewide primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11. The ballot will also include multiple municipal government positions and measures, depending on the jurisdiction. Primary winners advance to the general election, while municipal races are final.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

A mainly sunny sky. High near 65F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies in the evening, then becoming cloudy overnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 36F. Winds light and variable.
Brooke Cote said she's been a Londonderry resident for eight years and said she was disappointed that the town didn't do a better job of noticing the process, which included nine meetings since 2018.
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NORTHFIELD  The Vermont State Police investigators have used advanced DNA testing to close out a suspected homicide of a 1-day-old baby found dead in a garbage bag on the side of a road in Northfield in April 1982.

Four Northfield children were waiting for a school bus about 7 a.m. on April 1, 1982 when they discovered the abandoned baby along Mill Hill Road, state police said at the time. The road, which runs between Williamstown and Northfield, is better known today as Gillespie Road.

The baby, initially called "Baby Boy Doe," was later given the name Matthew Isaac Doe by a Northfield minister who conducted a funeral at St. Mary's Church in Northfield with about 80 people attending, news accounts said.

The identity of the mother and father stayed a total mystery for several decades, but state police said in July 2020 that it hoped new emerging investigative techniques involving DNA could be used to identify one or both parents. The work was done with Parabon NanoLabs in Reston, Va., police said.

The genetic genealogy testing led to possible leads in Maine and eventually DNA was obtained from both suspected parents, officials said. Investigators determined both suspects had ties to the Northfield area in 1982.

Vermont State Police investigators declined to name the parents of the child.

The Major Crime Squad and Cold Case Division have made significant strides in the case, VSP spokesman Adam Silverman confirmed on Friday afternoon.

"The Vermont State Police has made progress on this investigation and is planning an announcement early next week. Well provide more information at that time," Silverman said.

Attempts to reach Washington County State's Attorney Michelle Donnelly by phone, email and text on Friday were unsuccessful.

The case generated national news at the time as state police put out a wide net looking to find a pregnant woman that had delivered a baby and no longer had the child.

At the time, Vermont State Police Detective Ron DeVincenzi and State's Attorney Gregory W. McNaughton spent considerable time talking about investigative leads and trying to get the public to report possible tips about the identity of the parents.

Dr. Paul Morrow, Vermont's Chief Medical Examiner at the time, worked with officials, who said the death was classified a homicide even with the exact cause unknown.

Officials said the baby was born alive and biologically normal and the death was due to abuse, the Burlington Free Press reported on April 9, 1982.

The bag had been thrown over an embankment and a dog began dragging it along the road, police said. When the school children caught up to it, they tore open the bag to see the contents, DeVincenzi said at the time.

The baby was wrapped in a brown bath towel and sealed inside a plastic garbage bag, state police said.

Evidence showed the baby boy was carried to full term and born alive  likely nearby and only a few hours before he was discovered, police said. They said the brown-haired baby still had the umbilical cord attached.

Police said there was no reason to believe the mother was from Northfield or even a Vermonter.

The mother, police speculated, probably told friends and relatives that she gave the child up for adoption or the child died during birth, the Free Press reported.

The minister conducting the funeral, the Rev. Frank Wisner III, said, "It was something I needed to do." He used the two names Matthew and Isaac for Biblical reasons to provide the child an identity.

The state police attended the funeral in the hopes that one or both parents would show up out of guilt or remorse, Wisner said.

The boy was buried at Mount Hope Cemetery in Northfield following the service with a large headstone.

McNaughton, as the top prosecutor at the time, admitted officials were baffled. "Usually on something like this when we make a request through the media for information, we get quite a few calls," he said.

"We haven't had much information at all," McNaughton, who was called to the scene along with Dr. Kevin Crowley, the regional medical examiner, the Times Argus reported.

Authorities reached out to hospitals, doctors and others, but were limited with responses due to doctor-patient privilege, said McNaughton, who ordered the autopsy.

The case was initially reported to Northfield Police, but due to the expense of a wide-ranging in-depth investigation it was punted to the Vermont State Police.
The run-up to the provincial, municipal and district council elections has featured arrests of opposition.

Cambodias Candlelight Party supporters on trucks march during an election campaign for the June 5 communal elections in Phnom Penh on May 21, 2022.

Political parties in Cambodia have wrapped up an eight-day campaign period ahead of Sundays provincial, municipal and district council elections that will feature candidates from the ruling Cambodian Peoples Party and four other parties.

The nationwide election follows Februarys Senate election and last Julys national parliamentary elections. The long-ruling Cambodian Peoples Party, or CPP, won almost all seats in both of those elections.

Like the two recent votes, Sundays local election has also featured a crackdown on opposition activists in recent months, including the arrests of three opposition party members on May 9.

Sun Chanthy, 44, president of the National Power Party, was arrested at Phnom Penh International Airport upon his return from Japan, where he had addressed Cambodian supporters. He was charged with incitement.

A Cambodian beggar sits on the sidewalk near political party posters including FUNCINPEC, upper right, and the Cambodia Peoples Party, upper left, during a campaign rally period for the July 23 general election on the outskirts of Phnom Penh on July 20, 2023. (Heng Sinith/AP)





Police also detained and later released two members of the Candlelight Party in Kampong Cham province. Authorities provided no reason for their arrest and prevented family members from visiting the two men.

The Candlelight Party, the countrys main organization opposition party, is planning to field candidates in Sundays elections, even though the National Election Committee ruled last year that the party was ineligible for Julys national elections.

The National Power Party, formed in 2023 by breakaway members of the Candlelight Party, will also compete in the election. Party leaders and members marched through the streets of Siem Reap on Friday.

Sok Kimseng, the chairman of the partys executive committee, said the National Power Party continues to promote a truly democratic Cambodia through free, fair and equitable elections, despite the political environment and the charges against Sun Chanthy.

Even though we are saddened without the party's president, we convert our suffering into our firm stance in order to move forward for a positive change, he told supporters.

Unite into a democratic force

CPP leaders held rallies with members in several provinces across the country and conducted a march in Phnom Penh.

Another opposition party that is participating in the election, the Khmer Will Party, gathered with supporters on Friday at the partys headquarters in Tboung Khmum province.

A FUNCINPEC poster is seen along a street in Phnom Penh on July 17, 2018. (Samrang Pring/Reuters)





The election is an important step for building a democratic force to compete with the CPP in upcoming elections, said Kong Monika, the partys secretary-general.

I appeal to all democrats and the supporters of other parties to join hands toward the 2027 and 2028 elections, he said. We have enough time to unite into a democratic force to compete with the ruling party.

He added that he hopes previous supporters of the Candlelight Party will vote for the Khmer Will Party on Sunday.

The other parties fielding candidates are FUNCINPEC and the Khmer United National Party.

Only those already directly elected by the public to Cambodias 1,652 commune councils are allowed to vote in the council elections.

Translated by Yun Samean. Edited by Matt Reed.
Privileges that allow Hong Kong to clear US dollar transactions should also be revoked, Congress is told.

Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joey Siu speaks during a roundtable hosted by the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party at the Capitol building on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

The United States should shutter Hong Kongs foreign offices in Washington, D.C., New York and San Francisco and also revoke the jurisdictions special powers to clear U.S. dollar transactions, pro-democracy activists told Congress on Thursday.

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices ostensibly serve to promote trade but in fact serve as intelligence outposts controlled by the Chinese government, the activists said at a roundtable hosted by the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

The offices keep track of Hong Kongers who have fled a crackdown at home and must be shut down, unless autonomy is restored to Hong Kong, said Frances Hui, the policy and advocacy coordinator for the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, at the event.

Behind me is what looks like just another townhouse in the center of DuPont Circle, Hui said, pointing to an image of the office in central Washington, D.C. Its an outpost of the Hong Kong government to spy on overseas activists and influence American policies on China.

House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Chairman John Moolenaar (R-Mich.) asks a question during a roundtable on Hong Kong's future at the Capitol building on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (House Select Committee)

The United Kingdom earlier this month arrested three men, including the manager of a Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London, who were accused of assisting Chinese intelligence services.

Hui noted there was a bill  H.R.1103, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices Certification Act  before Congress that could close the three U.S. offices. It passed the foreign affairs committees in the House and Senate last year without being brought for a full vote, she said.

We haven't received an explanation about why the bill hasn't been put on the floor, Hui said, calling for the House Select Committee to use its leadership to ensure there is a vote on the bill.

However, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said the offices serve an important role for trade.

Currently, there are more than 1,200 U.S. companies investing and operating in Hong Kong, and almost all major U.S. financial companies operate in Hong Kong, Liu said in an email to Radio Free Asia.

The offices are win-win to the economic and trade cooperation between Hong Kong and relevant countries, the spokesperson said, before denying they serve as spy outposts. To politicize the relevant issues will only harm the interests of both countries, he said.

US dollar transactions

At the roundtable on Thursday, the activists stopped short of suggesting the United States cut ties with Hong Kong entirely.

Asked by Rep. Dan Newhouse, a Republican from Washington state, whether the U.S. government should consider repealing all of the privileges Hong Kong has enjoyed as an autonomous city and instead treat it as just another city in China, the activists demurred.

Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) asks a question during a roundtable hosted by the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party at the Capitol building on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (House Select Committee)

I do think that would be the last resort, said Joey Siu, a policy advisor at Hong Kong Watch, adding it could harm Hong Kongers.

Repealing the Hong Kong Policy Act would obviously be equal to a blanket sanction on Hong Kong as a city itself, she said, suggesting other paths be exhausted first. If all of these efforts that we could take are not working, I do think that that could be the last resort.

One of those paths could involve taking aim at Hong Kongs attractiveness to U.S. companies as an Asian financial hub.

Jonathan Price, a member of the legal team for jailed Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai, told the roundtable that Hong Kong was one of the few places outside the United States that can clear interbank U.S. dollar transactions, with HSBC carrying out the privilege.

Thats a valuable ability when U.S. banks are closed during the day in Asia, he said, and helps the 1,258 U.S. companies based in Hong Kong to do business in dollars when U.S.-based bankers are sleeping.

It remains the case that only a very small number of jurisdictions  four, in fact  are licensed to clear U.S. dollar transactions outside of the United States: Tokyo, Singapore, Manila and Hong Kong, Price said, questioning whether the special status was still deserved.

That is a privilege that ought to be reviewed and revisited in light of the precipitous decline in the state of the rule of law, he said. HSBC has a slightly colored history in closing down the accounts of pro-democracy campaigns at the behest of the Hong Kong government.

Human rights must not be siloed from business interests, he said.

Should the U.S. Treasury be rewarding huge financial institutions, and Hong Kong itself, with this sort of privilege in these circumstances?
An internet archive that claimed to save more than 2.5 billion web pages 'permanently' is no longer loading.

Workers remove a part of "Pillar of Shame" by Danish sculptor Jens Galschiot which to pay tribute to the victims of the Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing on June 4, 1989, at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) in Hong Kong, China, Dec. 23, 2021.

China once had an internet archive run by researchers at Peking University that allowed users to perform keyword searches of more than 2.5 billion historical web pages from millions of websites in Chinese.

According to a snapshot of the site from 2005 stored by the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine, members of the public were invited to "browse the permanently saved historical web pages" and "browse through the websites of the past."

The site described itself as a "public service" that would help users to "understand how major historical events unfolded."

But the website failed to load when tested by RFA from Taiwan and Europe on Thursday.

The apparent unavailability of the archive comes amid growing concern among Chinese speakers both in China and overseas over rapidly diminishing access to online information in Chinese, particularly about the country's recent history.

Volunteers at the U.S.-based China Unofficial Archive are battling to conserve material that has been censored under Xi and his predecessors.

Archived news articles about events from just a few years ago are no longer showing up on internet searches in China, cutting off access to the country's recent history from all but the most resourceful researchers, scholars told RFA Mandarin in recent interviews.

Fast disappearing

Politically charged events like the June 4, 1989, Tiananmen massacre have long been strictly censored from school and university textbooks, from public spaces and online.

But researchers say that less sensitive material is also fast disappearing, making it harder for people to form a picture of what people were doing, saying or thinking just a couple of decades ago, before President Xi Jinping took power.

Screenshot of the archived Web InfoMall website, Feb. 8, 2005. (RFA Screenshot)





Concerns about the unavailability of archived news stories and commentary were detailed in a recent blog post reposted on several Chinese platforms titled, "The collapse of the Chinese internet is accelerating," detailing an attempt to find news stories about Alibaba founder Jack Ma dating back to the turn of the century.

The article cited a Baidu search for stories about Ma dated from May 22, 1998, to May 22, 2005, which returned a grand total of one article from the early years of Alibaba's rise from e-commerce upstart to global technology conglomerate, and even that story was dated from 2021.

"In other words, if we want to understand Jack Ma's experiences, reports, people's discussions about him, his speeches, the company's development history, etc. during that period, the amount of effective original information we can get is zero," author He Jiayan wrote.

"After the rise of mobile Internet, Chinese content on the traditional internet has all but disappeared," He wrote, adding that Chinese-language search results via Google and Bing also yielded scanty results.

"My rough estimate is that more than 99% has disappeared," the author wrote, adding that results were similar for other high-ranking business people and celebrities from the pre-mobile era.

"Almost everything you see and create now, together with this article and this platform, will eventually be submerged in the void," the article warned, citing the disappearance of archived content from websites that were popular at the time, like NetEase, the Sina blogging platform, Baidu Tieba and the Tianya forum among many others.

"We once thought the internet would remember stuff -- we never expected its memory would be akin to that of a goldfish," He wrote.

Tightening grip

Part of the reason archived content is quickly disappearing in China is the tightening of government censorship in recent years, said a scholar based in the southwestern city of Chongqing who gave only the surname Wang for fear of reprisals.

"Articles from more than 10 years ago are likely to get someone into trouble today," Wang said. "A lot of Chinese media act under the leadership of the [ruling Chinese Communist] Party, so it's inevitable that they will delete stuff."

Some of it has been deleted on strict government orders, according to a retired university lecturer from the southwestern province of Guizhou who gave only the surname Zhang for fear of reprisals.

The State Education Commission issued a notice to the whole country, which basically meant that no critical articles could appear on the internet, Zhang said. University campuses were regarded as an important battlefield that had to promote the main theme [of government propaganda].

It said that university online forums werent outside the law, so all posts should be deleted, and all comment functions shut down, she said.

Lu Jun, co-founder of the non-government Beijing Yirenping Center, which campaigned for human rights in healthcare, said he had noticed content disappearing too.

"I discovered a while back that there's no trace any more of the anti-discrimination ... actions we took in our early years that were reported by mainstream and even state media in China, and reposted on a large number of official websites at the time," Lu said.

The China Unofficial Archive has books, films and documentary records from key points in China's recent history, including the Great Famine of the late 1950s to early 1960s and memoirs of the political turmoil of the 1966-76 Cultural Revolution. (RFA Screenshot)





Lu, who now lives overseas, said that while internet content disappears everywhere in the world, the problem is particularly acute in China "because the Chinese Communist Party plays an important role in controlling the flow of information and in online censorship."

According to He Jiayan's article, "it seems that there is a monster that devours web pages ... first in small bites, then in large gulps."

Days of relative freedom

Tseng Chien-yuen, an associate professor at Taiwan's Central University, said web content also disappears in Taiwan, too, but mostly based on commercial considerations.

"There was an era of relative freedom and diversity in China," Tseng said, referring to the period before Xi Jinping took power.

"For example, I used to regularly browse the Century China website during the Hu Jintao era, and often made posts there," he said. "Now there's no trace of it left at all -- a lot of people don't even know that such a website existed in China."

Century China shut down in 2007 after receiving an order from "the relevant authorities," according to the overseas-based China Digital Times.

Feng Chongyi, associate professor of Chinese studies at the University of Technology Sydney, said the disappearance of such websites and archived news materials will have a huge impact on Chinese people's access to their own recent history.

"It's pretty horrifying, but I think it has its roots in the political system," Feng said, citing a slew of recent national security legislation that make publishers far more wary of what information is still visible online.

"Politically speaking, the past was once grayed out, but now it's been blacked out entirely."

Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
The announcements follow similar steps by the US and Australia last week.

Japan and South Korea have separately imposed sanctions on individuals and entities involved in the arms trade between North Korea and Russia, they announced on Friday, the latest steps aimed at ending help for Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Japan said it would impose sanctions on 11 organizations and one individual for their involvement in military cooperation between the two countries.

Amid Russias prolonged aggression in Ukraine, we have decided to freeze the assets of organizations and individuals involved in military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said during a regular press conference.

The transfer of North Korean weapons to Russia is a violation of the United Nations Security Council resolutions that prohibit the transfer of North Korean weapons and related materials, Hayashi said, adding that the supply could further aggravate the situation in Ukraine.

The sanctions were imposed in co-operation with the United States, he said.

Separately, South Korea announced sanctions on North Korean individuals and Russian vessels for arms trading.

Seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels have been designated for independent sanctions for their involvement in the provision of materials and financing for North Koreas nuclear and missile development, South Koreas foreign ministry said.

The sanctioned entities were also involved in the transport of munitions and the arms trade between Russia and North Korea, the import of refined oil from North Korea, and the earning of foreign currency by North Korean overseas workers, it added.

The ministry reiterated its call for an immediate end to illegal military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

Military cooperation, including the Russian-North Korean arms trade, is a clear violation of Security Council resolutions and seriously threatens peace and stability not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in Europe and around the world, it said.

The measures were taken in close coordination with friendly countries and will contribute to further tightening the international communitys sanctions network, it added.

Prior authorization will be required for financial and foreign exchange transactions with individuals on the sanctions list. For ships, they must obtain permission from the administration to enter South Korea.

The sanctions came a day after it was announced that leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet on May 26-27 in Seoul for their first trilateral talks in more than four years.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will have bilateral talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday, ahead of their three-way gathering on Monday, said South Koreas deputy national security adviser, Kim Tae-hyo, adding that the leaders will also discuss regional and international issues.

Last week, Australia imposed targeted sanctions against entities linked to the unlawful weapons trade between North Korea and Russia , while the United States also announced sanctions on two Russian individuals and three Russian companies for facilitating arms transfers with the North.

Edited by Mike Firn.
Ethnic rebels have reopened the gates, but Beijing is blocking official trade until junta officials sign off.

A border wall between China and Myanmar with barbed wire and warning signs, January 13, 2023, in Ruili, Dehong prefecture, Yunnan Province, China.

Ethnic rebels in eastern Myanmars Shan state have reopened checkpoints on the border with China that were shuttered at the start of an offensive six months ago, but official trade has yet to resume as Beijing is awaiting approval from the military regime, rebel officials and residents said Friday.

The resumption of trade was among the points discussed in a China-brokered ceasefire agreement between the Three Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic armies and Myanmars junta in January, after the former made significant gains in an offensive launched on Oct. 27, and codenamed Operation 1027. No formal agreement was made on reopening the trading routes and it is unclear whether the delay could impact the truce.

On Friday, the Taang National Liberation Army, or TNLA, which is one of the members of the Three Brotherhood Alliance along with the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army and Arakan Army, said its officials were informed by Beijing that it hasnt got an agreement to resume border trade.

The Muse and Nam Hkam [townships] border gates have not yet been reopened [on the China side], said TNLA spokeswoman Lway Yay Oo. China is expected to resume bilateral trade after they receive approval from the Myanmar junta.

People make pictures at the border checkpoint between China and Myanmar January 13, 2023, in Ruili, Dehong prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. (Noel Celis/AFP)

The TNLA, which controls Nam Hkam township, reopened the Nawng Tang border gate in late April. But while local trade has resumed, China has not allowed any official border crossings, she said.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, or MNDAA, said it reopened border gates earlier this month in the townships of Chinshwehaw, Laukkai, Mone Koe and Pang Hseng  all of which are under their control.

But a resident of Pang Hseng said China continues to block official border crossings at Kyin San Kyawt in Muse, Chinshwehaw and some gates in the Mone Koe area.

Chinese authorities said that they will issue border crossing documents to enter Ruili, Mansi, Pang Hseng and Wan Tein townships, however, it is uncertain how to implement it, said the resident who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. Commodity flows are not yet allowed at the Pang Hseng gate, while there is limited import/export at the Mone Koe gate.

Kyin San Kyawt border gate was seen on April 29, 2024. (The KoKang)

The resident said local traders are using the Kyin San Kyawt gate for small-scale commerce.

Local trade hampered

A resident of Nam Kham township named Pi Sai told RFA that restrictions have made local trade at the border significantly more difficult than prior to Operation 1027.

Cargo trucks are allowed to pass these borders, but no passengers are allowed and the driver of the vehicles is changed at both sides, he said. Charcoal, metals and other items are exported to China, while food items are the main imports from China.

During their Operation 1027 offensive, the Three Brotherhood Alliance captured 16 towns in northern Shan State. However, Chinas intervention on Jan. 11 brought the alliances offensive progress to a halt.

Two days of talks in the southern Chinese city of Kunming earlier this month also focused on Chinese border trade issues, but no concrete agreements were reached, according to sources close to the rebel groups.

Attempts by RFA to contact junta spokesperson Major General Zaw Min Tun and officials with the juntas economy and commerce department for details about the suspension of official trade at the border gates went unanswered Friday. An email requesting comment from the Chinese embassy in Yangon received no response by the time of publishing.

People return from China at the Chinshwehaw border in Kokang Self-Administered Zone, February 2020. (RFA)

A political commentator and former Myanmar military official, who declined to be named due to fear of reprisal, said official border trade cannot resume until the junta and the rebel groups make agreements on territorial designation and tax distribution.

"China wants to open up the border gates, so its taking a leading role in the ceasefire, he said. Countries prefer government-to-government relations  otherwise, it would mean recognizing the rebel groups, so they cant trade officially.

According to data published by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce under the junta, in the fiscal year 2023-2024, the average monthly value of bilateral trade through Muse and Chinshwehaw was just over US$100 million.

Analysts say suspension of border trade at the two gates has hampered manufacturing in Chinas Yunnan province, prompting Beijing to push for reopening the border in talks between rebels and the junta.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Matt Reed.
They are being questioned by Thai officials and awaiting repatriation, an army officer told RFA.

Dozens of Myanmar soldiers fled into Thailand following a clash with ethnic minority insurgents, a Thai commander told Radio Free Asia Friday, the latest spillover from increasingly bitter fighting in Myanmar.

The junta troops fled a base in Kayin States southern Myawaddy district following attacks from the anti-junta Karen National Liberation Army, or KNLA, and allied groups, the Thai officer said.

"There were 31 Myanmar soldiers surrendering, said Ratchamanu Task Force Commander Col. Nattakorn Reuntib, who is based in western Thailands Tak province, on the Myanmar border. "They were disarmed, identified, treated and are awaiting repatriation through the Thai-Myanmar border coordination center."

Some troops were injured, he added. RFA could not confirm where they were being treated.

A KNLA soldier said about 20 junta soldiers were killed when Karen fighters captured their Po Chi Mu camp.

The camp has been captured. Forty-eight junta troops, including officers, surrendered and about 20 were found dead, he said, declining to be identified for security reasons.

An official from the Karen rebel force, which has been battling for self-determination for decades, told RFA that the junta troops escaping into Thailand had killed four civilians.

The Thai army found the fleeing junta soldiers near Ohm Phyan village and arrested them, he said, also requesting anonymity for safety reasons.

They killed three villagers and another, a pregnant woman on her way to hospital, when they fled. They are now being questioned by the Thai army  but we don't know what theyll do with them, said the official, who declined to be identified for security reasons.

Karen forces have been attacking the Po Chi Mu camp, opposite Thailands Umphang district, since Sunday and junta airstrikes in the area have forced hundreds to flee into Thailand, media reported.

Myanmars junta has been coming under pressure in different parts of the country since anti-junta forces went on offensive late last year.

Pro-democracy activists took up arms after the generals overthrew an elected government in early 2021, joining with ethnic minority insurgents to pose the most significant challenge to the military since shortly after the country's independence from Britain.

Junta forces fled into Thailand during fighting in April with Karen forces over control of the main border town of Myawaddy. The Thai government warned both sides not to use Thai territory for any military advantage.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn.
Authorities told residents they were trespassing on the land, they said.

Junta troops and officials removed houses in Pale 3 neighborhood in Mingaladon township, Yangon region on May 23, 2024.

Junta administrators destroyed 200 homes in a neighborhood in Myanmars Yangon Division on charges of trespassing, residents told Radio Free Asia, the latest in a series of evictions to clear squatter communities in urban centers.

The homes in Mingaladon townships Pale neighborhood were bulldozed on Thursday by municipal officers and troops, they said.

Officials sent residents letters in late April telling them they had to leave by an early May deadline.

Myanmars military has cleared tens of thousands of homes across the country, accusing people of squatting. The neighborhoods are usually in the suburbs of Yangon, Myanmars biggest city, crammed with makeshift dwellings made from tarpaulin, scraps of wood and corrugated iron.

A resident who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons told RFA that only 18 households left willingly. The rest were destroyed.

They brought a bulldozer to completely flatten them, he said.

In the eviction notice, signed by the junta chairman of Mingaladon townships Planning and Administration Board, residents were told all squatter buildings in the area had to be dismantled and removed by May 10.

People who have lost their homes have had to find rented accommodation, neighbors said.

RFA telephoned Yangon regions junta spokesperson, Htay Aung, for information about the incident but he did not answer the phone.

On April 26, junta forces and municipal officials ordered district authorities to remove 600 houses in Yangons Mayangone township, residents said.

According to data compiled by RFA, nearly 20,000 houses in Mayangon, Dagon Myothit (Seikkan), Dagon Myothit, Dawbon and Mingaladon townships, have been removed in the more than three years since the military seized power from a democratically elected government in a February 2021 coup.

In addition to Yangon, the second city of Mandalay and some other centers have seen forced evictions.

On Dec. 2, 2022, the United Nations called the removal of residential homes by force without providing replacements for those evicted a war crime.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn.
French military forces sent to quell New Caledonias pro-independence riots will stay as long as necessary, President Emmanuel Macron said during a flying visit to the Pacific island territory that reinforced regional perceptions of France as an out-of-touch colonial power.

Six people died, dozens were injured and businesses torched in a week of riots in the capital Noumea triggered by the French governments move to dilute the voting power of New Caledonias indigenous Kanak people. Roads remain blocked by makeshift barricades and Fiji, Vanuatu, Australia and New Zealand are attempting to evacuate their citizens from the island.

The electoral changes, described by Macron as a reform, will not be forced through in the current context, he announced before flying out of Noumea following a day of meetings on Thursday. We will allow some weeks to allow a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord."

A security contingent of several thousand that includes elite military troops will remain as long as needed, even during the Olympic and Paralympic Games" which Paris will host in July and August, he said.

Leaders of pro-independence parties were part of a meeting with Macron but have not yet released a statement. Macron urged them to call on protestors to dismantle barricades.

"Within a month at the latest, I will take stock, assess the situation and decide on the institutional follow-up, he said. I will, of course, take into account a return to calm, but also the sincere commitment of the parties to resume negotiations with a view to reaching an agreement.

Loyalist groups held separate meetings with Macron, highlighting their internal disagreements with how to proceed.

French President Emmanuel Macron [center] visits the central police station with France's Minister for Interior and Overseas Gerald Darmanin [left] and France's Minister for the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu [partially obscured] in Noumea, New Caledonia on May 23, 2024. (Ludovic Marin/Pool Photo/AFP)





Frances control of New Caledonia and its surrounding islands gives the European nation a significant security and diplomatic role in the Pacific at a time when the U.S., Australia and other Western countries are pushing back against Chinas inroads in the region. New Caledonia also has valuable nickel deposits that are among the worlds largest.

The unrest is the worst political violence in the Pacific territory located between Australia and Fiji since the 1980s. The riots erupted May 12 as the lower house of Frances parliament debated and subsequently approved a constitutional amendment to unfreeze New Caledonias electoral roll, which would give the vote to thousands of French immigrants.

Final approval of the amendment requires a joint sitting of Frances lower house and Senate.

Since last year, the Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste independence movement had called for the constitutional amendment to be withdrawn and for dialogue on New Caledonias status to be resumed.

We decided to instigate demonstrations in November when we saw that discussions with the French state were stalling. But still President Macron remained deaf to all our calls, said Roch Wamytan, a pro-independence politician and president of New Caledonias Congress.

There were warning signs, he said, that unrest could erupt. Now for more than a week we have been a bit overwhelmed by the events, he said in an interview with Australian broadcaster ABC.

I admit that independence leaders were surprised. Perhaps we did not sufficiently take into account the profound frustrations of young Kanak people.

The main prison here, 95% of the inmates, of which there are about 600, are young Kanak people. We knew that our youth, or part of our youth, had radicalized but we hadnt understood the depth of this desire for revenge.

People peacefully demonstrate as French President Emmanuel Macron's motorcade drives past in Noumea, France's Pacific territory of New Caledonia on May 23, 2024. (Ludovic Marin/Pool Photo/AFP)

Sonia Backes, a loyalist who is president of New Caledonias South Province, said Macron had pledged the law would be enforced.

The president "above all heard the Caledonians, the leaders of business, the mayors who spoke. They told him of the terror that reigns in New Caledonia, of the violence of what happened, of the racism of which we were victims, she said, the French national broadcaster reported.

Kanaks are about 40% of New Caledonias 270,000 people but are marginalized in their own land  they have lower incomes and poorer health than Europeans who make up a third of the population and occupy most positions of power in the territory.

Churches in the devoutly Christian Pacific region, civil society groups, the regional organization representing Melanesian nations and political leaders have condemned Frances attempt to bulldoze through the voting roll enlargement.

The inter-governmental Pacific Islands Forum, of which New Caledonia and not France is a full member, has offered to help mediate the crisis.

There is a widely-shared perception across the Pacific that the current unrest in New Caledonia is a situation largely of Frances own making, said Mihai Sora, a Pacific analyst at Australias Lowy Institute think tank.

Pushing through changes to electoral rules that are clearly designed to shift the balance of views locally on the question of independence has served to reinforce regional perceptions of France as an out-of-touch colonial master and exposed contradictions in Frances relationship with the Pacific, he told RFA-affiliate BenarNews.

New Caledonia is one of six non-self-governing territories in the Pacific inscribed on the U.N.s decolonization list, making up a third of all the aspiring nations, and the issue remains a hot topic in the region with Bougainville seeking to secede from Papua New Guinea and the long-running independence conflict in Indonesias Papuan provinces.

Foreign minister of Vanuatu Matai Seremaiah said the events in New Caledonia were a stark reminder of the unfinished business of decolonization across the Blue Pacific Continent.

French Polynesia was relisted by the U.N. General Assembly in 2013, and last year elected the pro-independence government of president Moetai Brotherson, but France has demanded the territory be removed again.

The issue of self-determination for New Caledonia will be squarely on the agenda for Pacific island leaders when the 18-nation Pacific Islands Forum meets in Tonga later this year, Sora said.

New Caledonia voted by modest majorities to remain part of France in referendums held in 2018 and 2020 under a U.N.-mandated decolonization process. Three votes were part of the Noumea Accord to increase Kanaks political power following deadly violence in the 1980s.

A contentious final referendum in 2021 was overwhelmingly in favor of continuing with the status quo. However supporters of independence have rejected its legitimacy due to very low turnout  it was boycotted by the independence movement  and because it was unilaterally brought forward by the Macron government during a serious phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted campaigning.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.
Revised bill now heads back to the House before going to President Biden.

The Dalai Lama speaking at a public gathering on the occasion of 'Chotrul Duechen' or the "Day of Offerings", the full-moon day of the first month of the Tibetan New Year, at the Dalai Lama temple in Dharamsala, on Feb. 24, 2024

UPDATED at 3:20 P.M. ET on 05-24-2024

The U.S. Senate on Thursday unanimously passed a bill urging the Chinese government to engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama or Tibetan leaders, without any preconditions, to resolve the China-Tibet dispute.

The bipartisan Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act notes that the dispute between Tibet and China must be resolved in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Charter, by peaceful means and through dialogue.

The Senate version of the bill, which included a few changes from an earlier version passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in February, will require the approval of the House again. After that, it must go to U.S. President Joe Biden, who is likely to sign it into law.

The bill, also known as the Resolve Tibet Act, refutes Beijings claim that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times, and calls on China to cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama.

China invaded the independent Himalayan country of Tibet in 1950 and has controlled the territory ever since. The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, fled into exile in India amid a failed 1959 uprising against Chinese rule.

Since then, Beijing has sought to legitimize Chinese rule through the suppression of dissent and policies undermining Tibetan culture and language.

Beijing believes the Dalai Lama wants to split off the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan-populated areas in Chinas Sichuan, Qinghai, Yunnan, and Gansu provinces from the rest of the country.

However, the Dalai Lama does not advocate for independence but rather a Middle Way that accepts Tibets status as a part of China and urges greater cultural and religious freedoms, including strengthened language rights that are guaranteed for ethnic minorities under Chinas constitution.

Direct response

The bill is a direct response to China, which continues to trample on the fundamental rights of the Tibetan people, said Sen. Jeff Merkley, an Oregon Democrat, and one of the co-authors of the bill.

We will work to get it to President Bidens desk to help put the people of Tibet in charge of their own future, Merkley said in a statement.

The bill also empowers the U.S. State Department to counter disinformation on Tibet.

Penpa Tsering, the sikyong or leader of the Tibetan government-in-exile, speaks during an interview with AFP in his office in front of a portrait of the Dalai Lama, seen in the background, in Dharamsala, India, Feb. 19, 2024. (Sajjad Hussain/AFP)





Sen. Todd Young, an Indiana Republican, another co-sponsor, said that the United States must push for negotiations that advance freedoms for the Tibetan people and peaceful resolution to the CCPs conflict with the Dalai Lama, referring to the Chinese Communist Party.

The bill articulates that Tibet includes the Tibetan-populated regions of Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, in addition to the Tibet Autonomous Region, thereby challenging Chinas claim that Tibet is restricted to that latter region alone.

So far, Beijing has not publicly commented on the bill.

But in response to an inquiry from RFA, Liu Pengyu, spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said in an email that Tibet had been a part of Chinese territory since ancient times.

"Anyone familiar with the Tibetan history should know that starting from Yuan Dynasty (13th century), successive Chinese Central Governments have exercised uninterrupted effective sovereign jurisdiction over Tibet," Liu wrote. "Tibet has never become an independent state, which is a historical fact that cannot be changed.

Liu urged the United States to "stop using Tibet-related issues to interfere in Chinas internal affairs, destroy[ing] Tibets development and stability, and offer no stage to the Tibetan independence forces to engage in anti-China separatist activities."

China will take all necessary measures to defend its own interests, he said.

Resolved through negotiations

Tencho Gyatso, president of the International Campaign for Tibet, welcomed the passage of the bill, saying it was an indication that American support of Tibet will never waver and that Washington will not accept Chinas false narrative about Tibet.

I hope Beijing will now see that disputes must be resolved through negotiations instead of its agenda to erase Tibets unique and ancient civilization, she said.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the democratically elected leader of the Central Tibetan Administration  the Tibetan government-in-exile  told a news conference in Dharamsala, India, on Friday that the passage of the bill was a crucial first step towards challenging that narrative and combating China's distortion of Tibet's history.

"Once this bill becomes law in the U.S., we can advocate for similar legislation in other countries around the world, according to their respective protocols, he said.



Namgyal Choedup, representative of the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration to North America, told RFA that the bills unanimous passage sends a clear message that Chinas systematic oppression and erasure of Tibetan identity is never the answer to resolving the Tibet-China dispute and we are hopeful that this will soon become law.

The House version of the bill was led by Rep. Michael McCaul, a Texas Republican who is chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Jim McGovern, a Democrat from Massachusetts who is also a Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee and a member of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China.

Additional reporting by Palden Gyal for RFA Tibetan. Edited by Malcolm Foster.

The story was updated to include comments from Liu Pengyu, spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, and Sikyong Penpa Tsering.
He was arrested despite his stellar reputation as a teacher.

Erkin Tewekkul, a Uyghur biology teacher at a school in Xinjiangs capital Urumqi, stood out among his peers for his excellent communication and leadership skills.

He was selected several times as teacher or school staffer of the year and promoted first to secretary of the school union committee and later to principal, according to people familiar with his background.

Yet, despite his stellar reputation at the No. 14 High School  one of the top Uyghur high schools in Urumqi known for its outstanding graduates  police summoned Tewekkul for questioning around mid-2017. They arrested him later that year and sentenced him to 12 years in prison, the sources said.

Tewekkul, now 54, was arrested because authorities said he failed to excessively praise the Chinese Communist Party, or CCP, and the government while in class and in school meetings, raising doubts about his loyalty to the state, said one source, who declined to be named for fear of reprisal.

He was charged with supporting nationalist separatists after comforting students whose parents had been detained by authorities, and in 2018 was also accused of being two-faced  a term used by the CCP to describe Uyghur cadres deemed disloyal to the party  the source said.

Mass arrests

Tewekkuls detention occurred amid the mass arrests of Uyghurs in Xinjiang, hundreds of thousands of whom were sent to re-education camps to purportedly eliminate their terrorist tendencies and religious extremism. Others were sent to prisons.

Authorities began jailing Uyghur intellectuals and teachers a couple of years before conducting mass arrests around 2017, and continued to do so afterward as part of the Chinese governments efforts to suppress Xinjiangs Uyghur population.

Most of the people accused of being two-faced are Uyghur cadres who pay attention to Uyghur culture, virtue and education, and who work for the government, said Abduweli Ayup, founder of Uyghur Hjelp. Also known as Uyghuryar, the Norway-based nonprofit engages in Uyghur human rights advocacy, documentation and humanitarian aid.

Therefore, as someone who cared for his students, loved education and contributed to biology in the Uyghur language, I can understand the reason [authorities accused] him of being two-faced, he said.

Around 2014, Tewekkul began to notice that some of the high school students became depressed after their parents were arrested.

These earlier arrests were part of a crackdown on Muslim Uyghurs by Chinese authorities who appointed party cadres to stay in Uyghur homes and report on perceived extremist behaviors, including fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.

At the time, authorities leveled thousands of mosques throughout Xinjiang that they claimed were poorly constructed and unsafe. Government officials in Urumqi began a campaign against halal food, which is prepared according to Islamic law.

Uyghur women were subjected to forced sterilizations and the insertion of intrauterine devices, or detained for violating birth-control orders.

Amid the crackdown, Tewekkul called the depressed students into his office and suggested that the suppressive measures were only temporary, according to one person with knowledge of the situation.

He assured them that their parents were innocent and would eventually be vindicated, the source said.

Interrogation

During Tewekkuls interrogation three years later, authorities misrepresented his words, saying they demonstrated an uncertain position on national issues, and that he was covering for separatists and inciting their children, the person familiar with the situation said.

These statements were later introduced in political study sessions as the manifestation of national separatism in the field of education, he added.

When contacted by RFA for more information, a staffer at the 14th High School said he had no knowledge of Tewekkul and suggested that the former principal left the school years ago.

An officer at the Ghalibiyet Police Station, which oversees the district where the school is located in Urumqi, said the current principal was a Han Chinese man and that Tewekkul had been taken away for re-education.

I dont know how long its been since he stopped working  maybe around three years, she said. I dont know the reason for his arrest, she added, referring further questions to school leaders.

A police officer at the Tengritagh District Police Department in Urumqi confirmed that Tewekkul was in prison, but said she could not provide information about the duration of his sentence or his location.

I heard that he was arrested due to financial reasons, since he was a principal, she told RFA. I didnt hear about him being arrested for comforting students.

Tewekkul graduated from North China University with a degree in biology in 1994 and began working as a teacher at a former school that was renamed the No. 14 High School in 2004, Ayup said.

The principal is on a list of detained intellectuals compiled by Ayup's organization.

Tewekkul's friends and former classmates said he loved art and calligraphy, and was especially good at drawing, according to Ayup.

Former students now living abroad said he cared deeply about the students, loved education and offered valuable advice about the future, he added.

Translated by RFA Uyghur. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Joshua Lipes.


It's the second major blaze in Hanoi in a year.

Fire and Rescue workers carry a victim to an ambulance following a big fire at an apartment block in Hanoi on May 24, 2024.

Updated May 24, 2024, 00:40 a.m. ET.

A fire in a boarding house in the Vietnamese capital Hanoi early on Friday killed 14 people, state media reported, just eight months after authorities promised tougher rules to stop such deadly blazes.

The fire broke out on the first floor of the three-story building shortly after midnight, according to the Voice of Vietnam.

There were 24 people inside, seven members of the owners family and 17 people renting rooms.

Firefighters struggled to reach the building, which was down a narrow alley, police said. Residents of the neighborhood tried to douse the flames with fire extinguishers.

"At that time, there were no cries for help coming from inside the burning house," Vo Thi Hoai An, who rents a room nearby, told the VNExpress news site.

A charred entrance gate is pictured following a big fire at an apartment block in Hanoi on May 24, 2024. (Kien Pham/AFP)





Fourteen people were found dead at the scene and three people were taken to hospital, while rescue teams searched the building for victims. The injured are said to be in a stable condition.

Hanoi is home to about 2,000 mini-apartments and crowded streets block access to fire trucks.

Last September, 56 people died in a mini apartment building after which the government ordered an investigation and promised tougher regulations for small apartment buildings.

Following Fridays blaze, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, Deputy Minister of Public Security Senior Lieut. Gen. Tran Quoc To visited the scene, according to Vietnamese media reports.

They said the Hanoi government offered VND50 million (US$1,960) to the families of the dead and VND30 million for each person injured in the fire.

One Hanoi resident, who didnt want to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter, told Radio Free Asia that such fires were known as pre-warned ones because so many apartments are at risk.

U.S.-based lawyer Le Quoc Quan, who lived near the site of Fridays fire before moving to America, told RFA the law in Vietnam was not strict and developed more slowly than it needed to.

The mini apartments type is still not clearly regulated by law. People discussed it a lot after the fire killed 56 people last year but until now theres been no progress, he said.

Due to rampant construction, lack of planning, and corruption, violations are legalized, making fire prevention and fighting even more difficult.

It's heartbreaking and I predict this problem will hardly improve in the near future.

Edited by Mike Firn..

Updated with comments from current and former Hanoi residents.
Cambodia's then-Prime Minister Hun Sen (L) is greeted by Vietnam's Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at the Party's headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam December 20, 2016.

Vietnam "does not support" offensive comments about veteran Cambodian leader Hun Sen posted on one of his social media pages, Vietnams foreign ministry said in a response to a Cambodian request for help to track down those responsible.

Hun Sen, who now heads Cambodias Senate, said he suspected the disparaging comments on his TikTok page were in response to his support for a Chinese-developed canal project in southern Cambodia. Hun Sen is spearheading development of the Funan Techo canal but Vietnam regards it with suspicion, fearing disruption to vital flows of water down the Mekong river.

We do not support the opinions and comments that provoke division between friendly people of Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as personally target leaders of both countries, a spokeswoman for the Vietnamese ministry, Pham Thu Hang, told a press briefing on Thursday.

Those supposed Vietnamese accounts only express their personal opinions and do not represent Vietnams government or the people, she added, though stopping short of condemning the unidentified people who posted the comments.

Disagreement over the canal has strained relations between the neighbors, who have been staunch allies for decades.

Hun Sen said last Sunday that a large number of disrespectful comments in Vietnamese were posted on his TikTok and he called for authorities to trace those responsible.

Some of the comments read: Vietnam sacrificed its blood for peace in Cambodia, and Dont forget tens of thousands of Vietnamese volunteers who were killed in Cambodia.

The former prime minister, who retains much power in Cambodia, was also called ungrateful, Chinas puppet, and a traitor in the posts

Critics say the proposed canal that connects Cambodias capital, Phnom Penh, with the Gulf of Thailand would severely affect Vietnams Mekong river delta, a vital rice-growing region and home to millions of people.

Some Vietnamese experts say the canal could reduce the flow of the river by up to 50% by the time it reaches Vietnam.

A farmer works in a paddy field in Can Tho city of southern Vietnam's Mekong Delta on February 28, 2023. (Nhac Nguyer/AFP)





Cambodia has denied that the 180-km (112 miles) canal would cause such an impact and Hun Sen has ruled out more talks with Vietnam on it.

The Vietnamese spokeswoman again called on Cambodia to provide full details of the canal. She said Vietnam hoped for continuing close cooperation with Cambodia in sharing information about the canal, as well as its cross-border impact.

Last month, Cambodias Minister Delegate attached to the Prime Minister in charge of ASEAN affairs, So Naro, told the media that Cambodia was not legally required to submit any documents to Vietnam regarding the studies and construction of the Funan Techo canal.

Cambodia had submitted all documents of the studies on the canal related to the impacts on the environment and the water resources to the MRC, So Naro said, referring to the Mekong River Commission, an intergovernmental organization in charge of the sustainable management of the Mekong basin.

The Vietnamese authorities can request access to those files, So Naro was quoted as saying.

Analysts say that the canal project has created a rift between the two governments, which enjoyed close fraternal ties in the past but have drifted apart in recent years as Cambodia comes under increased economic and political influence from China.

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.
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
Czech National Security Adviser Tomas Pojar says that the country's ammo initiative will start sending urgently needed artillery shells to Ukraine no later than June. The Czech-led drive has reportedly raised enough funds to procure hundreds of thousands of shells from non-EU markets. In an interview with Current Time, Pojar said that supporting Ukraine is essential for Czech security because it means "Russian soldiers are not on the Slovak border."
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.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has suggested some Central Asian countries are frightened of Moscow and urged them to join a Kyiv-backed peace initiative. Zelenskiy was speaking on May 24 to RFE/RL while meeting reporters at a print works in Kharkiv that had been bombed by Russia the previous day in an attack that killed at least seven people.
North Dakota U.S. House candidate Rick Becker has been criticized by a group of human rights advocacy groups for a campaign video that featured a transgender influencer, seemingly without her knowledge.

Becker, a former Bismarck state lawmaker, earlier this week posted a video from Dylan Mulvaney, an internet personality best known for her TikTok series in which she chronicled her transition process, that he obtained through Cameo, a service that allows people to pay celebrities for personalized video messages.

A Cameo from Mulvaney was listed at $350 on Friday. She gained national fame in 2023 after she promoted Bud Light on social media and conservatives in response called for a boycott of the beer company given its relationship with a transgender influencer.

In the video purchased by Becker, Mulvaney congratulates Public Service Commissioner Julie Fedorchak -- who is competing against Becker in the Republican primary for North Dakota's sole seat in the U.S. House of Representatives -- for her "huge job change coming up."

Getting this video made was pretty dang fun.



Dylan Mulvaney, though I doubt he knows who Julie Fedorchak is, did an excellent job highlighting her work against coal plants in North Dakota and her desire to work with RINOs in DC. Well worth the Cameo fee for the laugh and to pic.twitter.com/PfoySlfQlG  Dr. Rick Becker (@DrRickBecker) May 21, 2024

Mulvaney says in the video that Fedorchak's "friend Rick" told her that Fedorchak has been "basically saving the planet and promoting green energy and reducing harmful coal plants" for the past decade, and is now "going to the D.C. zoo to be working with rhinos" -- an apparent attempt to criticize Fedorchak's service on the PSC and portray her as a Republican In Name Only, or RINO.

Becker in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, acknowledged that Mulvaney likely doesn't know who Fedorchak is. Three regional human rights organizations characterized Becker's campaign tactic as an "appalling stunt" and a "political dehumanization campaign."

Representatives for Mulvaney did not immediately respond to a Tribune request for comment Friday.

Becker's post was propagated among some right-wing circles in the days after it went up, receiving nearly 350,000 views and garnering support from pundits such as Tim Pool and Tim Young. However, other conservatives were frustrated that Mulvaney financially benefitted from Becker's campaign donations.

Its sad these radical left organizations cant recognize a good-humored video or that fact that there are only two genders," Becker said in a statement to the Tribune. "The gender-confused community is upset that Dylan Mulvaney highlighted RINO Julies push for green energy above our coal industry. I find it amusing."

The day after the video was posted, Fedorchak's campaign announced that she had been endorsed by a political action committee affiliated with the Lignite Energy Council, a group that is composed of stakeholders in the coal industry.

"Rick is angering North Dakota conservatives by giving his donors' money to trans activists to advance their agenda," Fedorchak campaign manager Sean Cleary said in a statement. "Rick knows Julie is the leading champion for energy in our state, so hes using desperate antics instead of talking about the issues important to voters."

Gender Justice, Prairie Action ND and the North Dakota Human Rights Coalition all came out in opposition to Becker's video on Thursday, drawing attention to the wave of state-level legislation in recent years that has limited access to gender-affirming care, among other restrictions that have largely impacted transgender people and the LGBTQ+ community.

Christina Sambor, North Dakota state director at Gender Justice, decried what she described as "senseless online bullying and dehumanization of trans people" in a statement.

"Hate is not a North Dakotan value," she said. "What Becker did only shows how out of sync he is with the vast majority of North Dakotans.
A Roscommon man who arrived in the US only days ago was robbed at gunpoint early Sunday morning.

Liam Egan from Roscommon and Evan Glynn, also from Ireland, were waiting for their Uber to pick them up outside the Banshee Irish Pub in

Buffalo, New York, around 4:45 am.

We were ordering an Uber and this guy came and turned around with a gun and held it to our heads really, Mr Egan told local media, News 4 WIVB.

As they were waiting, a man walked by them, reached in his pocket, turned around and pointed what appeared to be a gun at both of them.

When we looked at the footage, he clearly wasnt following us, he saw us as an easy target, Mr Egan said. Sitting ducks really. The entire interaction lasted a few minutes. The men did not have cash on them, but the robber stole one of their iPhones.

The two had flown to Buffalo less than a week ago from Ireland to attend Canisius University and work at the Banshee Irish Pub.

The co-owner of the Banshee told News 4 WIVB he was glad the two men were not hurt, but was worried this could happen again somewhere else downtown.

Downtown Buffalo has been getting some bad apples for the past three or four years, business hasnt been good down here because people are scared away from getting harassed, theres too many panhandlers out on the street, co-owner Conor Hawkins said. Theres just some bad elements out there making it uncomfortable for everyone else.

Buffalo police told News 4 WIVB they are investigating the robbery, as well as other similar incidents that occurred in and around the area during that time to see if theyre connected.
A one day seminar, marking the life and legacy of Percy French will take place this Saturday, May 25th at Roscommon County Library, beginning at 10.30 a.m..

Across the world, Percy Frenchs legacy is celebrated in story, song and verse with songs such as The Mountains of Mourne, Gortnamona and Are You Right There Michael (Are You Right).

Frenchs artwork is also celebrated across the world with renowned auction houses selling his work for well in excess of five figures. His watercolours capture the beauty of rural Ireland in its simplicity. French was also a gifted sketcher and was renowned for his etchings on plates from the smoke of candles!

The event marks the 170th anniversary of Percy Frenchs death. He was born in Clooneyquin, Tulsk, in 1854 and died in Formby, near Liverpool in January 1920. This Saturdays seminar reflects a renewed interest in the life and work of French.

The event opens with a spiritual and ecumenical reflection on the life of Percy French by Fr. Francis Beirne, Parish Priest of Four Roads. There will also be a local reflection on the landscape that inspired Percy French as well as a talk on Percy Frenchs songs, by leading Gaelic Scholar, Tomas O Morain from Ballaghaderreen.

Music will also form a backdrop to the days proceedings with performances by the children of the local Killina National School and Killina Ceili Band, acclaimed banjo player Norman Cairns from the North Down Percy French Society will also perform as well noted raconteur and Ballyleague native, Paul Lindsay.

The event is free. However those interested in attending are advised to contact Roscommon County Library in advance to confirm their attendance as capacity is limited. The library can be contacted during normal office hours on 090-6637270 or roslib@roscommoncoco.ie.

Saturdays event is organised by Roscommon County Councils Library services, with the support of the recently formed Clooneyquin Percy French Society.

Executive Librarian of Roscommon Library, Ruairi O hAodha, said there was considerable public interest ahead of the event: Were delighted to be supporting this seminar in conjunction with the newly formed Clooneyquin Percy French Society. The enduring popularity of Percy French is testament to his immense ability to highlight the lives of ordinary people, in a gentle, humorous manner.

Chairman of the newly formed Clooneyquin Society, Darragh Kelly said Saturdays event is likely to inspire young and old alike in a renewed appreciation of Frenchs work: With the support of the community of Clooneyquin, we are in the initial stages of forming a new Society to celebrate Frenchs work.

We invite anyone with an interest in Frenchs work or who would like to hear and know more about Frenchs work, to join us next Saturday in the County Library buildings. We are grateful to the library service for their support of what is sure to be a relaxed and fun event, said Mr Kelly.
Romania supports the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine

Romania has reasserted its support for neighboring Moldova and Ukraine

Black Sea and Balkans Security Forum (Credits: New Strategy Center)

Bogdan Matei, 24.05.2024, 13:50

Seen as a major security, defense and foreign policy event, the Black Sea and the Balkans Security forum in Bucharest served as an opportunity to reaffirm some key objectives of Romanian diplomacy. Romania will continue to support Ukraine with all its might, a country invaded by Russian troops, said Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu on Thursday on the sidelines of the Forum. The Romanian official pointed out that Romania is one of the main energy suppliers of the neighboring country and is making investments in order to become the main logistic hub for Ukrainian goods. We have started large-scale projects, worth more than 1.5 bln EUR, in the port of Constanta, because Ukrainian grain exports via Constanta to the whole world thwarted yet another of Russias heinous plans, the Romanian Prime Minister added.

This week, the Border Police General Inspectorate announced that, starting February 2022, when the Russian forces invaded Ukraine, and until May 21, 2024 at midnight, over eight million Ukrainian citizens entered Romania at national level. Most of them were in route to Western European countries, but about 84 thousand, accounting for 1% total entries, chose to stay in Romania. Last week, Prime Minister Ciolacu also gave assurances that Romania will maintain its aid for Ukrainian refugees. The victory of Ukraine against the Russian Federation means the victory of all democracies, Ukraines Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on the sidelines of the Forum in Bucharest. It is important to stop the Russians from destroying even more!, said the Ukrainian official who, like all Ukrainian political leaders, president Volodymyr Zelenskyy first and foremost, asked his partners, including Romania, for more sophisticated weaponry. In his message, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova, the pro-Western Dorin Recean, said it is essential to combat disinformation and Russian propaganda, which undermine peace and stability in the region. Trustworthy and strong media institutions are needed to inform the public correctly and objectively, the Moldovan Prime Minister also stated.

Also on Thursday, the Government of Romania adopted a new support package for the Republic of Moldova, aimed at continuing energy exports, rehabilitating a student dormitory and providing public order and security structures. According to the Government spokesperson, Mihai Constantin, the law stipulates in cases where the Republic of Moldova cannot ensure its national consumption of electricity through its own production, that electricity producers in Romania can sell energy products to traders or suppliers designated by the Government of the Republic of Moldova. These electricity deliveries will exclusively cover the needs of end users in the Republic of Moldova, Mihai Constantin explained. (VP)
The United States announced that visa restrictions will be imposed on those who are responsible for suppressing protests against Georgia's controversial "foreign agent" bill.

"Anyone who undermines democratic processes or institutions in Georgia including in the lead-up to, during, and following Georgia's October 2024 elections  may be found ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy and precluded from travel to the United States," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on Thursday. Immediate family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions.

Blinken also announced that Washington will review relations with the former Soviet Republic.

He expressed hope that Georgia's leaders will reconsider the draft law and take steps to move forward with their nation's democratic and Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

The Department of State did not specify the names of those who are being targeted with the new visa restriction policy.

The ruling Georgian Dream party passed a "foreign influence" law that would stifle the exercise of freedoms of association and expression, stigmatize organizations that serve the citizens of Georgia, and impede independent media organizations, sparking mass protests in the country over the past few months.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
The defense forces of the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have conducted large-scale exercise showcasing the three allied nations' combined logistics capabilities.

More than 600 U.S. Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen took part in the joint military exercise alongside their partner nation counterparts, according to the Pentagon.

Native Fury 24, spread across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, kicked off earlier this month.

This year marked the first time the exercise has featured bilateral operations with both the Royal Saudi Armed Forces and United Arab Emirates Armed Forces.

The U.S. Marine Corps-led Native Fury 24 put combined, joint interoperability to the test through a series of complex logistics maneuvers, dynamic combat training evolutions, and convoys spanning more than 1,000 miles across two countries.

The exercise began earlier this month when equipment was offloaded at Saudi Arabia's Yanbu Port on the Red Sea. The equipment was then transported to a logistics staging area where it was prepared for the long-range convoy along the Trans-Arabian Network, a collection of seaports, airports and road networks connecting countries throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

Along the way, the U.S. conducted bilateral live-fire and airport-repair training alongside the Royal Saudi Armed Forces at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, before conducting a border crossing into the UAE.

Once in the UAE, the U.S. and UAE forces conducted convoy training, as well as refueling operations on Emirati helicopters.

The convoy ended at the UAE Port of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman where the equipment was loaded onto a vessel to transport it back to the U.S.

Marine Corps Col. Matthew Hakola, director of logistics for Marine Corps Forces Central Command and the exercise control group director for Native Fury 24, said the exercise serves as key demonstration of the United States' ability to carry out complex, combined, joint exercises with partner nations.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Could a bank deny access to the accounts of a company of which you are the legal owner? Can a bank employee refuse even a printout with information about your account, provided that you are appearing in person, with proper documents or are sending a person with a notarized power of attorney? Under the law, such behavior on the part of financial institutions is inadmissible. But in Bulgaria this is possible and the bank is FIB. It is well known that this bad apple is not to complying with the law as it is the darling of all governments.

FIB has denied access to the accounts of the company VM Corporation four times in a row, in violation of the law. This happened after the express letter of the central bank, (Bulgarian National Bank, BNB), instructing FIB to provide information to authorized persons.

VM Corporation is a shell company, notorious for having been used for the theft of 20 million euro from deliveries of food to the poor in Romania (see here and here). The theft took place with the complicity of FIB and the organized crime group The Killers, as revealed by the Romanian Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (see here). However, the investigation in Bulgaria has been put on the backburner, as controversial lawmaker Delyan Peevski and Prosecutor General Sotir Tsatsarov are providing a cover-up for it.

The complicity of FIB is written in black and white in the indictment of the Romanian Anti-corruption Office.

Journalists from Bivol and the Romanian Center for Investigative Journalism, the Rise Project, exposed a scheme in which a Romanian criminal clan has also participated. Bivol obtained a perfectly legal power of attorney from the dummy owner of the company VM Corporation and followed the money trail. An investigative reporter of Bivol traveled to Cyprus and established that a local lawyer, paid by a shell company owned by FIB, has opened a bank account to which the stolen money has been transferred and he then wired it to offshore companies and closed the account (see here).

Furthermore, our investigation categorically establishes that The Killers are connected with the majority shareholders of FIB  Tseko Minev and Ivaylo Mutafchiev (see here).

During the investigation in this case, which is the single largest theft of EU funds, our reporter Dimitar Stoyanov was followed and threatened. This provoked a sharp reaction of the Committee to Protect Journalists and the OCCE (see here and here).

The pressure against Stoyanov began a month ago, after he visited a FIB branch together with the dummy owner, Valeri Petrov, and as his proxy requested access to the accounts of the company.

However, FIB refused to grant the access, claiming that there was a technical problem, and subsequently asked Valeri Petrov to file a written request for such access to the management of the financial institution. This request remains unanswered to date.

Dimitar Stoyanov filed a claim with BNB and the Commission for Consumer Protection on behalf of Valeri Petrov. He received a response from BNB that has been copied to FIBs majority shareholders.

The letter, signed by Nina Stoyanova, Deputy Governor of BNB, states that the complaint has been probed. It gives instructions to FIB to obey the law and to provide access to the accounts or information about possible restrictions on them. The fact that there has been a probe means that BNB is certain that the power of attorney issued by Valeri Petrov to Dimitar Stoyanov is valid and the central bank has no objections regarding its legitimacy.

Yesterday, however, FIB refused again access to the accounts, despite the BNB letter and in gross violation of the law. This time the refusal was grounded on the lack of specimen of Valeri Petrovs the signature.

It turns out that FIB, which was managing Valeri Petrovs millions and has issued to him bank letters of guarantee for tens of millions of euro to bid in a public tender for food deliveries to the poor in Romania, and even, according to Petrovs own words, had kept his companys seals, does not have a copy of his ID card.

This document is mandatory for opening a bank account and its lack, admitted by a FIB employee before our reporter, is sufficient reason for a new inspection of BNB and for the prosecution to launch an investigation in money laundering. This is unlikely to happen, as the prosecution even overlooked the obvious evidence that FIB is a direct accomplice in the theft of 26 million euro of EU money  money for the poor.

***

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ESAs Euclid mission has released five new images that showcase the telescopes ability to explore two large-scale cosmic mysteries: dark matter and dark energy. The images feature views of varying sizes  the star-forming region Messier 78, the spiral galaxy NGC 6744, galaxy clusters Abell 2390 and Abell 2764, and the Dorado galaxy group  and were taken shortly after Euclids launch in July 2023 as part of its early release observations program. These images accompany the missions first scientific data, also made public today, and 10 forthcoming science papers. Some of the science includes: new-born free-floating planet candidates, newly-identified extragalactic star clusters, new low-mass dwarf galaxies in a nearby cluster of galaxies, and the discovery of very distant bright galaxies.

Euclid  built and operated by ESA, with contributions from NASA  lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on July 1, 2023.

By 2030, the mission will create a cosmic map that covers almost a third of the sky, using a field of view that is far wider that than the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, which are designed to study smaller areas in finer detail.

Astronomers will then chart the presence of dark matter with higher precision than ever before. They can also use this map to study how dark energys strength has changed over time.

Euclid is a unique, ground-breaking mission, and these are the first datasets to be made public  its an important milestone, said Dr. Valeria Pettorino, ESAs Euclid project scientist.

The images and associated science findings are impressively diverse in terms of the objects and distances observed.

They include a variety of science applications, and yet represent a mere 24 hours of observations.

They give just a hint of what Euclid can do. We are looking forward to six more years of data to come!

The full set of early observations targeted 17 astronomical objects, from nearby clouds of gas and dust to distant clusters of galaxies, ahead of Euclids main survey.

This survey aims to uncover the secrets of the dark cosmos and reveal how and why the Universe looks as it does today.

Euclid intends to tackle the biggest open questions in cosmology. And these early observations clearly demonstrate that Euclid is more than up to the task, Dr. Pettorino said.

Euclid will trace the hidden web-like foundations of the cosmos, map billions of galaxies across more than one-third of the sky, explore how our Universe formed and evolved over cosmic history, and study the most mysterious of its fundamental components: dark energy and dark matter.

The images obtained by Euclid are at least four times sharper than those we can take from ground-based telescopes.

They cover large patches of sky at unrivalled depth, looking far into the distant Universe using both visible and infrared light.

Its no exaggeration to say that the results were seeing from Euclid are unprecedented, said Professor Carole Mundell, director of science at ESA.

Euclids first images clearly illustrated the telescopes vast potential to explore the dark Universe, and this second batch is no different.

The beauty of Euclid is that it covers large regions of the sky in great detail and depth, and can capture a wide range of different objects all in the same image  from faint to bright, from distant to nearby, from the most massive of galaxy clusters to small planets.

We get both a very detailed and very wide view all at once.

This amazing versatility has resulted in numerous new science results that, when combined with the results from Euclids surveying over the coming years, will significantly alter our understanding of the Universe.

While visually stunning, the images are far more than beautiful snapshots; they reveal new physical properties of the Universe thanks to Euclids novel and unique observing capabilities.

These scientific secrets are detailed further in a number of accompanying papers released by the Euclid Collaboration, made available on arXiv.org, together with five key reference papers about the Euclid mission.

Euclid demonstrates European excellence in frontier science and state-of-the-art technology, and showcases the importance of international collaboration, said ESA Director General Dr. Josef Aschbacher.

The mission is the result of many years of hard work from scientists, engineers and industry throughout Europe and from members of the Euclid scientific consortium around the world, all brought together by ESA.

They can be proud of this achievement  the results are no small feat for such an ambitious mission and such complex fundamental science.

Euclid is at the very beginning of its exciting journey to map the structure of the Universe.
Point-of-care pharmacogenetic testing company Genedrive announced on Friday that it has received initial orders for its Genedrive MT-RNR1 products from five additional UK hospitals in the Greater Manchester area.

The AIM-traded firm said the hospitals included the Royal Oldham Hospital, Stepping Hill Hospital, Royal Bolton Hospital, Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, and Tameside General Hospital, with the total value of the orders exceeding 0.1m.

It said the new orders would significantly expand the use of Genedrive's MT-RNR1 test, more than doubling the number of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in the UK using it in routine practice.

Collectively, the five hospitals admit around 1,900 babies annually.

The company described the Genedrive MT-RNR1 ID Kit as a non-invasive test that quickly identifies babies in NICUs who have an MT-RNR1 genetic variant.

It said the test, which delivers results in around 26 minutes, helps determine if newborns are at high risk of hearing loss from aminoglycoside antibiotics, thus aiding in rapid clinical decision-making and preventing the use of the antibiotics in susceptible infants.

The test received a conditional recommendation from the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in March last year, allowing its use in the NHS while additional evidence was gathered.

Efforts to generate that further evidence were ongoing, with the aim of achieving a full NICE recommendation, which was expected to facilitate national funding for the test.

I am delighted to see the positive effects of our direct to customer commercialisation strategy in the UK, with further NHS engagement and uptake for bringing this vital test which has the potential to avoid profound, irreversible hearing loss in babies in neonatal care units into day-to-day use in neonatal emergency care, said chief executive officer James Cheek.

Our expectation is that more NHS trusts will adopt this simple to use point of care genetic test in the coming months and we continue to grow our opportunities overseas.

At 1201 BST, shares in Genedrive were up 7.46% at 1,8p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Audience intelligence software specialist Pulsar Group said in its final results on Friday that its annualised recurring revenue (ARR) increased 2.7m, a significant improvement from the flat performance in the prior financial year.

The AIM-traded firm, formerly known as Access Intelligence, said the growth was driven by better renewal rates and new business wins.

It said the Asia-Pacific region saw a turnaround, with annualised recurring revenue growth of 1.6m in the 12 months ended 30 November, marking the first growth period since the acquisition of Isentia.

In contrast, the prior year saw a 2.5m decline in the region.

The EMEA and North America regions meanwhile saw annualised recurring revenue growth of 1.1m.

Total revenue for the year was 62.4m, down from 65.7m in 2022, although recurring revenue rose to 95% of total revenue, up from 93%, reflecting the companys focus on securing profitable long-term contracts.

Adjusted EBITDA jumped to 7.3m from 2.3 in 2022.

Pulsar said its headcount decreased from 1,110 in November 2022 to 940 in March 2024, aligning with improved renewal rates and growing annualised recurring revenue.

New client acquisitions in the EMEA and North America regions included prominent names such as Carnival, Dentsu, Kraft Heinz and Tesco.

In the Asia-Pacific region, the introduction of new features and functionalities led to key client wins, including Amazon, Hyundai, and the World Health Organization.

As of 30 November, the group's cash balance totalled 2.2m, down from 4.9m in 2022.

Since the period ended, Pulsar had secured a 3m debt facility and a 3m overdraft facility.

As of 31 March, the companys net debt position was 1.25m.

Pulsar Group's comprehensive audience intelligence solution is at the forefront of innovation in marketing and communications, said non-executive chairman Christopher Satterthwaite.

It has been embraced by leading global agencies who forge strategies for the world's largest brands and organisations.

The growing demand for audience intelligence is undeniable as governments, corporations, brands, and individuals adapt to the pressures of today's communication landscape.

Satterthwaite said Pulsar's technology equipped organisations with the insight and engagement strategies needed to navigate such challenges, which were being heightened by the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence in media and social channels.

In 2023, the resonance of the group's offering has helped to achieve a significant acceleration in annualised recurring revenue growth and improved adjusted EBITDA margins, overcoming the challenges of a difficult macro-economic environment.

The turnaround in the Asia-Pacific region has been particularly impressive, driven by strong reception of our market-leading products and services among existing, former, and new customers.

Christopher Satterthwaite said the companys board was pleased with the progress achieved in 2023 in advancing the group's product offering and in generating profitable, global annualised recurring revenue growth.

We remain confident in the group's ability to deliver growth, improved margins and cash flow in 2024 and beyond.

At 1222 BST, shares in Pulsar Group were down 5.06% at 73.57p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
The FTSE 100 is expected to open 79 points lower on Friday, having closed down 0.37% on Thursday at 8,339.23.

Stocks to watch

Oil services company Wood Group said it had rejected a third improved takeover proposal from Dubai-based engineering and consulting company Sidara, saying it continued to significantly undervalue the group and its prospects. Sidara upped its latest offer by 3.8% to 220p-a-share on May 21 from 212p a week ago and the 205p initial approach. It has until June 5 to make a firm bid.

Abrdn announced a change in leadership on Friday, with group chief executive officer Stephen Bird stepping down. The FTSE 250 company said Jason Windsor, its current chief financial officer, was being appointed as interim group CEO, pending regulatory approval, as a formal search process took place. It said Bird would remain until 30 June to assist with the transition.

Newspaper round-up

The energy price cap in Great Britain will fall to the equivalent of 1,568,a year this summer after a drop in wholesale gas prices. Set by the energy regulator, Ofgem, the cap reflects the average annual dual-fuel bill for 29m households and takes effect from July until the end of September. The cap, which is set quarterly, will fall 122 in July from its current level of 1,690, easing the pressure on household finances.  Guardian

The British entrepreneur Mike Lynch took the stand on Thursday in a San Francisco federal courthouse as a key witness in his own criminal fraud trial, defending his role at Autonomy, the tech firm he co-founded and then sold. The trial continued as planned Thursday despite the defence team moving for a mistrial over alleged improper questioning of a witness by the prosecution. Lynchs defense team called the questioning, which indirectly referenced the tech titans extradition, egregious and highly improper in a filing.  Guardian

National Grid is to install as many as 6,000 electricity pylons across the English countryside as part of plans to invest 31bn in the nations transmission networks. John Pettigrew, chief executive of National Grid, said the 1,000 miles of overhead lines connecting the pylons will prepare the UK for electricity demand which is expected to double over the next 25 years. Bill payers are to fund the 31bn overhaul of the electricity network as the National Grid rewires the nation to hit net zero.  Telegraph

News Corporation has announced a groundbreaking, multi-year agreement to bring news content from its publications to OpenAI, one of the leading players in artificial intelligence. The multimedia group, which owns The Times, The Sunday Times and The Sun as well as The Wall Street Journal, the New York Post and The Australian, said that OpenAI had permission to display content from News Corp titles in response to user questions and to enhance its products.  The Times

A maker of sparkling wine controlled by Lord Ashcroft has added the Chinese mainland to its list of export markets as it seeks to cash in on a growing taste for English fizz around the world. Gusbourne, which is 66.2 percent-controlled by the former deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, increased its international sales by 7 per cent last year. They now account for 21.2 per cent of total net revenue.  The Times

US close

Stocks on Wall Street closed weaker on Thursday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 1.53% at 39,065.26.

The S&P 500 lost 0.74% to 5,267.84, while the Nasdaq Composite was off 0.39% at 16,736.03 by the end of trading.
Co-operative Bank Holdings is being taken over by Coventry Building Society in a 780m deal, it was confirmed on Friday, the latest consolidation in the UK banking sector.

The acquisition, which will create a high street lender with assets of 89bn, will see the private equity-owned Co-op Bank return to mutual ownership.

Under the terms of the cash deal, Coventry will pay 780m for the bank, although up to 125m will be deferred for up to three years, subject to the performance of Co-op Bank during that period.

Coventry and Co-op Bank, which is owned by US firms Bain Capital Credit and JC Flowers, entered exclusive takeover discussions in December before signing non-binding heads of terms in April.

In a joint statement on Friday, the two lenders confirmed a share purchase agreement had been signed, with the deal set to complete in the first quarter of 2025.

Coventry, which was founded in 1884, is currently the UK's third-largest mutual lender, with around 2m members. The Co-op Bank has around 2.5m customers.

Coventry chair David Thorburn said it was a transformational moment.

Chief executive Steve Hughes added: We will be able to deliver value to more people in the coming years. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Nick Slape, chief executive of Co-op Bank, said: I am proud of what has been achieved in recent years.

"We have successfully transformed and simplified the bank in to one that is now sustainably profitable with a strong capital and liquidity position. This transaction is the natural next step and presents an exciting opportunity.

In 2009, the Co-op Bank acquired Britannia Building Society. However, the deal left it exposed to a raft of bad loans and a 1.5bn capital shortfall, pushing it close to collapse.

It was eventually rescued by bondholders in 2017, and returned to profit to 2021.

Coventrys members have not been asked to vote on the deal. The building society said that following thorough and detailed assessments, the board has decided a vote was not required.

It mirrors a decision by Nationwide, the UKs biggest mutual, which has also not consulted members on its agreed 2.9bn of listed bank Virgin Money.
Born and raised in Singapore, Kevin Kwan received a BFA in Media Studies from the University of Houston before moving to New York to pursue a BFA in Photography at Parsons School of Design. Kwan has produced acclaimed visual books for Oprah Winfrey, Gore Vidal, Larry McMurtry and Elizabeth Taylor. He is the author of I Was Cuba (Chronicle, 2007) and the co-author of the special sales hit Luck: The Essential Guide (Collins, 2008). He lives in Manhattan and is at work on a sequel to Crazy Rich Asians, but took a few moments to talk to us about satire, fashion and the effects of consumerist culture.

Social comedy is a difficult genre. How do you use humor and satire effectively?

Direct observation! It doesn't hurt that the subject and milieu that I'm writing about lends itself so perfectly to satire. How can you take seriously a living room where there's a sunken pool in the middle filled with baby sharks? Or women that take dressing up more seriously than an Olympic sport? I was once at a pool party where this Chinese society matron arrived in head-to-toe Yves Saint Laurent. A velvet Le Smoking jacket, scarlet trousers with a crease so sharp you could cut your finger on it, this ginormous Queen Mother diamond brooch, and diamond chandelier earrings. It's in the middle of the afternoon, everyone else is in shorts and t-shirts, and this woman is wearing an avalanche of diamonds, standing by the barbecue grill. Being exposed to scenes like this, I almost feel like I have an unfair advantage. I also have the benefit of learning from some of my favorite writers--E.M. Forster, Edith Wharton, Julian Fellowes and of course Jane Austen--all of whom brilliantly deploy humor to depict the social intricacies and absurdities of their set.

Where did you draw your inspiration for powerful matriarchal characters?

There's an impression in the West that Asia is a male-dominated culture, but the opposite is often true. In my experience, the husbands may be the ones who go out and make the fortune, but they bring the money home and the wives end up controlling it. Home is the nexus of social life in Asia, and this is where the women have traditionally wielded their power. They rule the social scene, and they decide who gets in and who doesn't. Growing up in Singapore, it seemed like I was always surrounded by these strong, amazing women, so there was no shortage of inspiration.

Was it difficult to balance the more serious aspects of this story with the humorous?

In Asia it often seems that the extremes are amplified. People are either making millions by the minute, or the stock market is tanking. A couple is blissfully happy one day and launching a nuclear war against each other the next. Even though the book is staged like a jet-setting romp, I wanted to show both extremes while exploring some wrenching terrain and issues--rampant materialism, infidelity, religious hypocrisy--to name a few. But my hope is that by approaching these elements through comedy, adding a dash of lightness and absurdity, we could open these issues to further examination.

You drop designer names skillfully throughout the narrative. Were you a fashion follower prior to writing Crazy Rich Asians?

I've always had an interest in fashion. From a young age I developed an obsessive interest in fashion history, and later I went to Parsons School of Design in New York, originally focusing on fashion photography. I also worked for Interview magazine, where I assisted on fashion shoots and cured myself of ever wanting to be fashion photographer. I realized that working in fashion was draining my love for it, so these days I prefer to simply be a spectator. I think that fashion has always been in my DNA--I come from a family where both the men and the women take their clothes very seriously. My grandparents were always exceedingly stylish, with an elegance and an attention to detail that you just can't replicate anymore. And all of my mother's clothes were tailored for her, so much of my childhood was spent tagging along at her fittings, and usually falling asleep amongst the towering bolts of fabrics.

What's your personal take on consumerist culture?

I find myself fascinated and appalled by consumerist culture, especially by the degree to which many Asian consumers have become fixated on acquiring brand name objects. I've personally witnessed some of the most mind-boggling shopping sprees, where someone spends more in a single day than I make in a year. The scale of spending is absolutely unprecedented--Asian consumers now account for 70% of the international luxury goods market. When you go to Hong Kong, you see lines of people mostly from Mainland China camped outside places like Louis Vuitton and Gucci every day, waiting to rush in and buy up everything in sight. To me, there's clearly something underlying all of this behavior. This insatiable hunger to acquire and flaunt all the trappings of wealth is a reflexive, pent up reaction to decades of suffering and deprivation under the old communist regime. I think this phenomenon of the Crazy Rich Asian consumer is only in its infancy, and as it continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see what effect it will have on the culture at large. Because the flip side of this conspicuous consumption is that great craftsmen and artisans are being supported, and companies that might otherwise have gone under have been able to thrive.

I think that readers might be surprised to know that for the all the brand name dropping that occurs in my book, I actually go out of my way to avoid wearing anything with logos or labels, and I'm more of a minimalist at heart. For me, the ultimate luxury is having as few things as possible, and my only real extravagance is books. I have way too many books. --Jaclyn Fulwood
Claire Messud

(photo: Lucian Wood)

Claire Messud is the author of nine books, including The Emperor's Children, The Woman Upstairs, and The Burning Girl. In 2020, she published the essay collection Kant's Little Prussian Head & Other Reasons Why I Write, which focused on her peripatetic upbringing as the daughter of a Canadian mother and a pied-noir father of Algerian descent. She returns to this material in This Strange Eventful History (reviewed in this issue), a sprawling multigenerational saga that follows a family like her own from 1940 to 2010.

What inspired you to return to your family's history in fiction, rather than essays?

There are several pieces in Kant's Little Prussian Head about my family, but in my mind they didn't begin to explore what that generation's lives were like. My second novel, The Last Life (1999), was in some ways my first approach to family material--it's not autobiographical, but it's about a family of French colonials, or pieds-noirs, after Algerian independence. We all write out of our experiences (even when writing fictions set on other planets or in other centuries), and the themes of life and of my family's history have been with me since I started out. It feels as though there's always more to discover; I'm not sure I have any conclusions, though.

Every chapter in the book is in third person except for those from the perspective of Francois and Barbara's younger daughter, Chloe. Why did you choose to present her chapters in this style?

The novel, in my mind, proceeds from a more traditional storytelling form in the earliest sections to an increasingly interior narrative, whether in third or first person. It seemed to me necessary that the first person should break into the novel about halfway through--it happens in the fourth decade of seven--so hopefully readers understand that while there are numerous subjectivities involved, one of them is more intimate, situated in a particular place in time and in a particular relation to the other characters.

Could you talk about the link between family and world histories?

Yes, absolutely--the book is about the interconnectedness of our small personal lives and the big historical events always unfolding around us. The title comes from Jaques' famous soliloquy in As You Like It: "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players...." As I considered my own family's history, I was aware that in the 20th century, everyone's life, however small and broadly insignificant, intersected repeatedly with History--wars and displacements, colonialism and decolonization, constant upheaval and migration. (This of course describes the 21st century equally well!) So I'm following a small group of people, a particular family, in their meanderings through the strange, eventful history of the 20th century--and yet one could focus on almost any person or people and bump up against the greater forces of the era. Our lives are shaped by these external forces--there's no escaping History.

Do you have thoughts you'd like to share regarding religion and its role in shaping strange, eventful histories?

Yes, some of the characters in the novel are devoutly religious--not just Denise but Gaston and Lucienne, whose devotion shapes everything in their lives--while others are committedly secular. Religion is for the grandparents' generation a great solace, a helpful structure. In wartime, in poverty, when they're separated, when they're lost--Gaston and Lucienne trust in God's plan. (I can't tell you how often God is invoked in my grandparents' correspondence.) This is a bulwark that the secular don't have, of course; the world looks very different without faith. But faith is also, as we know, itself responsible for many terrible things, for war and oppression and so on. My aim was simply to try to convey the very different experiences people have of the same events, depending on many factors, including one's attitude towards religion.

In the passage in which Mrs. Fisk makes derisive comments about Aborigines, Chloe and her sister, Loulou, tell her about the myth of the Rainbow Serpent, thought of as a god to Aboriginal Australians. Mrs. Fisk responds, "Aren't their myths fascinating? Who'd like a Life Saver?" Can you talk about the role of myth in histories, both those of a country and those that emerge within a family, and their possible intersection?

I wanted to convey, there, the indifference with which this older, white Canadian woman meets the stories of the native Australian peoples. Chloe, learning these myths at school at the same time as she learns Bible stories, grasps that there are differing foundational myths (the Rainbow Serpent and, say, Adam and Eve, or Jesus Christ) and to her, they're equally valid: she isn't quite able to differentiate between the traditions. Her grandmother, on the other hand, limited and formed by her particular education and beliefs, believes the Bible stories to be, if not literally true, then at least spiritually true, while she considers the myths she's not familiar with to be merely quaint stories.

We're all shaped by internalized beliefs of which we're not even aware--and some, of course, that we see more clearly, and call into question. Individuals and generations adopt different sets of myths--the American dream, for example, is one that sustained generations of Americans and determined a lot of people's life choices; but now, perhaps, people have lost faith in it. Indeed, broadly, culture is formed in myth, in beliefs the provenance and veracity of which are unclear--even as, as a character wisely observes in an Anthony Powell novel, "It's not what happens, it's what you think happens, that matters."

What are your thoughts on the role of cinema in shaping perceptions of other countries, other religions, and so on?

I know from reading family letters from the 1950s and 1960s that, while my Canadian grandparents acquired a TV in the late '50s, my French grandparents didn't have one. Instead, for entertainment they went every weekend to the movies, shows that started with the newsreels followed by one or two features. Cinema was a massive part of their lives; and of course, as I tried to convey in the novel, a lot of the movies they were seeing--in French North Africa, or in Argentina or later, when I was a kid in Australia--were Hollywood movies. The influence of American cinema through the 20th century and into the 21st is of course massive--that's a significant part of the cultural imperialism of which so many other nations have complained, and complain still. I think it's perhaps hard for Americans to understand how much power these narratives--these myths of America, if you will!--have had outside the USA over the past century.

The multigenerational family saga is one of the oldest and most enduring styles in literature. Do you have any favorite works from that genre, and did any previous family sagas influence you as you wrote this book?

There are so many multigenerational novels that I love--from Thomas Mann's Buddenbrooks or Tolstoy's War & Peace to Gabriel Garcia Marquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude, Min Jin Lee's Pachinko or There, There by Tommy Orange--and many more. I believe we're as much unconsciously influenced by what we've read as we are consciously--so I'll claim influence from all of them! --Michael Magras
The Maldives is gearing up to launch India's RuPay service, a move that is expected to strengthen the Maldivian Rufiyaa, announced Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed. RuPay, developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), will mark its debut in the Maldives as the first global card payment network from India, with extensive acceptance at ATMs, POS devices, and e-commerce platforms across the country.

Speaking to state-run PSM News, Minister Saeed highlighted the significance of RuPay's introduction, stating, "The upcoming launch of India's RuPay service is anticipated to further bolster the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR)". He underscored the administration's commitment to addressing currency challenges, stating that reinforcing the MVR is a top priority.

Although no official date has been announced for the launch, Minister Saeed conveyed that the card will be formally utilized for transactions denominated in rupees within the Maldivian territory. Discussions are ongoing with India to explore avenues for facilitating payments in rupees, he added.

The groundwork for RuPay's introduction was laid during the official visit of then President of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, to India in August 2022. A joint statement issued at the time underscored the commitment to operationalize the usage of RuPay Cards in the Maldives and explore measures to enhance bilateral travel, tourism, and economic inter-linkages.

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), NPCI's international arm, has forged partnerships with banks and payment companies worldwide to accept UPI and RuPay. This initiative reflects India's efforts to expand its digital payment ecosystem beyond its borders. In recent years,, NPCI's international arm, has forged partnerships with banks and payment companies worldwide to accept UPI and RuPay. This initiative reflects India's efforts to expand its digital payment ecosystem beyond its borders.

However, the relations between the Maldives and India have faced challenges since President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed power last November. The recent repatriation of over 80 Indian military personnel from three aviation platforms in the Maldives, at President Muizzu's insistence, has strained bilateral ties.

Despite geopolitical complexities, the launch of RuPay in the Maldives signifies a milestone in economic cooperation between the two countries. It is poised to facilitate seamless transactions, promote financial inclusion, and contribute to the strengthening of local currencies in the Maldives, while also deepening economic ties between India and the Maldives.
In an exchange filing on May 23, IT giant HCLTech announced its plans to acquire specific assets of Hewlett Packard Enterprises (HPE) Communications Technology Group (CTG) for $225 million, or approximately Rs 1,874 Crore, in an all-cash transaction.

In a collaborative announcement by the involved firms, it has been disclosed that approximately 1,500 staff members alongside 700 contracted professionals specialized in telecom engineering services spanning multiple nations, including Spain, Italy, India, Japan, China, the Americas, and the APAC region, are set to move to HCLTech as part of the agreement.

HCLTech has confirmed in a regulatory filing that it has entered into a deal to acquire specific assets (CSS) of Communications Technology Group, a division of Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company. The acquired assets from CSS, known for providing engineering services to prominent global Communications Service Providers (CSPs) through a global delivery model, come with a total purchase price of $225 million.

The acquisition is poised to strengthen HCL Technologies' standing in the telecommunications industry, as it seeks to augment its engineering services through the integration of CSS's intellectual property, solutions, and skilled workforce. This strategic move will particularly leverage CSS's established presence with leading Communications Service Providers (CSPs) across Europe, Japan, the Americas, and the APAC region, encompassing 20 of the top 30 CSPs globally.

HCLTech CEO and Managing Director C Vijayakumar said, "With this transaction and our planned strategic partnership with HPE, we are strengthening our telecom practice to address the rapidly expanding and transforming global telecom market. With the incoming top engineering talent and industry-leading IP from HPE's CTG group, we are adding significant capabilities and direct relationships with global CSPs".
Hero Realty Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Sunil Kant Munjal's HeroEnterprise, has appointed Madhur Gupta as its new CEO. This strategic move follows the departure of the former CEO, who left to start his own venture.

Gupta, an alumnus of IIM Lucknow, holds a background in mechanical engineering and an MBA. Before taking the helm at Hero Realty, he served as the CEO of Hero Steels Ltd, also part of Hero Enterprise. Under his leadership, Hero Steels Ltd achieved significant milestones in operational excellence and profitability, boasting a turnover of Rs 1000 crore.

Hero Realty is ambitious and forward-thinking. He aims to position HRPL as a leader in creating sustainable, smart, and community-centric developments. We look forward to the transformative impact he will undoubtedly bring to the company and its developments, stated Jogendra Singh, Group CFO and President (Finance), Hero Enterprise. Madhurs vision foris ambitious and forward-thinking. He aims to position HRPL as a leader in creating sustainable, smart, and community-centric developments. We look forward to the transformative impact he will undoubtedly bring to the company and its developments, stated Jogendra Singh, Group CFO and President (Finance), Hero Enterprise.

Hero Realty is set for an expansive year, with plans to launch four new projects across Delhi NCR, Ludhiana, and Mohali. These projects align with Gupta's vision of fostering sustainable and smart developments that benefit the community.

The appointment of Madhur Gupta as CEO marks a new chapter for Hero Realty, promising innovation and growth in the real estate sector. The company is poised to leverage Gupta's extensive experience and leadership to enhance its market position and deliver exceptional developments.
Hindalco Industries, a metals firm under the Aditya Birla Group, is optimistic about the future of copper and aluminium demand in India, according to Managing Director Satish Pai during a post-earnings media briefing. Pai highlighted the growing demand for these metals, particularly in sectors like electrification, cookware, and automobiles.

The company observed a significant 15 percent year-on-year increase in domestic demand for refined copper, reaching 225 KT compared to 196 KT in the previous fiscal quarter. Pai emphasized that much of this surge in demand is attributed to household electrification, although copper continues to serve various industries such as construction, automotive, telecommunications, and consumer goods.

Revenue from Hindalco's copper business surged to Rs 49,321 crore in FY24 from Rs 41,702 crore the previous year. The segment's quarterly EBITDA also saw a notable rise, reaching Rs 776 crore, marking an impressive 30 percent year-on-year increase, which the company proudly considers an "all-time high."

Simultaneously, Hindalco's aluminium business in India demonstrated positive performance in the quarter under review. Upstream revenue for aluminium amounted to Rs 8,469 crore in Q4 FY24, compared to Rs 8,050 crore in the same period of the previous fiscal year. Aluminium Upstream EBITDA stood at Rs 2,709 crore in Q4 FY24, marking a 24 percent year-on-year increase from Rs 2,192 crore in Q4 FY23.

Pai noted that the majority of the demand for aluminium stemmed from sectors such as conductor cables, cookware, and automobiles. The company's consolidated net profit for the March quarter witnessed a robust 31.6 percent year-on-year increase, reaching Rs 3,174 crore. This growth was fueled by strong sales performance coupled with favourable input costs across Hindalco's business segments, compared to a profit of Rs 2,411 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom's CEO, Alexey Likhachev, hailed India as a crucial partner, affirming that the country is set to receive next-generation nuclear fuel this summer.

Likhachev hosted Ajit Kumar Mohanty, chairman of India's Atomic Energy Commission, in Siberia's Tomsk region. Mohanty was given a tour of the fourth-generation site slated to house the safest atomic reactor in history, as reported by RT-India.

Emphasizing the strong cooperation between the two nations, Likhachev praised India as a key partner in the nuclear sector.

Mohanty and Likhachev convened in Seversk, Tomsk region, for meetings. They also visited the Pilot Demonstration Energy Complex (PDEC) site, a part of Russia's 'Proryv' ("the Breakthrough") strategic industry project, according to a statement by Rosatom.

The visit included comprehensive discussions on potential areas of collaboration in the nuclear domain between Russia and India.

nuclear technologies are also on the agenda," Likhachev stated, as reported by RT. "We are prepared for a substantial expansion of cooperation with India in utilizing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. This encompasses serial construction of high-capacity nuclear power units based on Russian designs at a new Indian site, as well as the implementation of land-based and floating low-power generation projects. Cooperation in the nuclear fuel cycle sector and non-power applications ofare also on the agenda," Likhachev stated, as reported by RT.

Accompanied by Indian Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, Mohanty's visit also included engagements at Tomsk State University and a meeting with regional governor Vladimir Mazur, as per RT-India. Discussions with Mazur revolved around potential collaborative ventures in pharmaceuticals, high technology, education, and research.

At Tomsk State University, Ambassador Kumar delivered an open lecture on "India-Russia relations in the current global scenario" and interacted with Indian students from various universities in Tomsk.

The visit underscores the deepening ties and multifaceted cooperation between India and Russia, particularly in the vital sector of nuclear energy. As both nations continue to strengthen their strategic partnership, collaborative efforts are poised to yield significant advancements in nuclear technology and peaceful applications of atomic energy.
Orion Innovation ('Orion'), a leading digital transformation and product development services firm, today announced it has signed a deal with Stanbic Bank Kenya to facilitate a core banking upgrade and modernization effort. As part of the agreement, Orion will implement Temenos' cloud-based digital banking platform within Stanbic Bank Kenya's operations, enabling enhanced customer experiences and delivering innovative digital solutions.

The entire servicing and delivery for the partnership will happen from Orions Chennai centre in India. As the Financial Services delivery hub in India, Orion's Chennai centre features a state-of-the-art Innovation Lab that has developed bespoke solutions which seamlessly integrate with Temenos suite. Orions team of experts will manage massive amounts of data and ensure consistency and accuracy for Stanbic Bank Kenya from India.

Orion, a globally certified & trusted Temenos partner, was selected as Stanbic Bank Kenya's partner to upgrade its Transact application from R17 to R23 and migrate from TAFC to the new TAFJ standard. The ambitious project involves 90+ integrations and 6000+ local code conversions. To accelerate the project timeline, Stanbic Bank Kenya will use Orion's industry-leading Test Automation tools and services.

The strategic alliance with Stanbic Bank highlights Orion's leadership role in transforming the Financial Services industry across the MEA region. "We are excited to partner with Stanbic Bank Kenya on the bank modernization initiative", said Anoop Gala, Orion's Global Head of Financial Services. "Our team is committed to fueling digital innovation in the African Financial Services market by securing our banking partners in deploying advanced implementation tools which ensure compliance and advance their project timelines".

Suchen Janjale, Orion's Head of Financial Services in Europe, said, "Our comprehensive offerings around Temenos, coupled with our proven track record in efficient and successful upgrades and integrations, were instrumental in Stanbic Bank Kenya's decision to choose Orion as its trusted partner".

Dr. Joshua Oigara, Stanbic Bank Kenya and South Sudan Chief Executive said, "Technology and innovation are central to our continued growth in a highly digitized and complex banking environment. This upgrade adds to our technological capabilities and enables us to better serve our clients both on a local and global scale. We are proud to partner with Orion and to leverage its strong background and expertise in driving system modernization".

Alex Siboe, Stanbic Bank Kenya Head of Technology, said, "Transforming customer experience through technology is at the cornerstone of the bank's strategy. Aligned with our objective of delivering exceptional client experiences and superior value, we consistently work towards adopting the right technologies to drive efficiency and satisfaction for our clients. This upgrade fits into our digital transformation journey and will help us provide a seamless and superior banking experience to our customers. Furthermore, through this upgrade, we will not only enhance our operational efficiency but also offer innovative services to our customers, meeting their evolving needs in today's digital era".
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A disbarred Staten Island lawyer is headed to prison for a scheme intended to defraud the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA).

Douglas Raymond Arntsen was sentenced to nine years for defrauding SBA of more than $1.4 million in government-funded loans, according to a release by Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

As per the release, between June 2020 and August 2020, Arntsen coordinated a scheme to submit fraudulent loan applications through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), by recruiting individuals who he promised to help get out of financial difficulties.

Using his co-conspirators personal information, including social security and drivers license numbers, Arntsen was able to submit fraudulent loan applications to the EIDL program claiming that the co-conspirators were owners of businesses with significant revenue, but that in reality they had no connection to.

While recruiting more individuals to be involved in the scheme, Arntsen obtained at least $1.4 million in fraudulent loans while attempting to obtain hundreds of thousands of dollars of additional loans that the SBA rejected.

In 2012, Arntsen was convicted and sentenced to four to 12 years in prison for engaging in a multi-year scheme to steal more than $10 million in clients money from escrow accounts while working for a law firm as a disbarred lawyer.

Douglas Raymond Arntsen, a disbarred attorney and recidivist fraudster, took advantage of a national emergency to line his pockets, masterminding a scheme to defraud the government out of more than $1.4 million by submitting fraudulent COVID-19 relief loan applications, Williams said. Thanks to the hard work of this Office and our law enforcement partners, Arntsen is being held accountable for his fraud.

On top of prison, Arntsen, 45, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,430,200 and to forfeit the same amount.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Of the thousands of restaurants in the naked city, which ones serve the best bagels, breakfast, burgers, sandwiches and pizza?

A keepsake sign hanging in five Staten Island establishments this week shows just who made the grade, based on scouts from the Channel 5 morning show GoodDay New York.
The U.S. Department of State is urging American citizens to avoid traveling to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

The reissued level 4 travel advisory follows the March 2019 U.S. withdrawal of all diplomatic personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas before operations were suspended in the country.

The U.S. Embassy in Venezuela points out that violent crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping and carjacking are common across the country and warns that anti-government demonstrations bring out police and security forces who utilize tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets against participants and occasionally devolve into looting and vandalism.

Shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine and medical supplies also plague the country.

The embassy goes on to say that the U.S. government also has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela and urges citizens to try to leave as soon as safely possible and to contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

In 2023, there were approximately 26.8 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in Venezuela  down from 40.4 in 2022.

If you decide to travel to Venezuela, the State Department suggests you:
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A City University of New York (CUNY) public safety officer has been suspended after a video circulating on social media showed him engaging in a war of words with students who had walked out of Thursdays graduation ceremony at the College of Staten Island.

The video shows students recording the officer and shouting, You support genocide, to which he responds, Yes, I do. I support genocide. I support killing all you guys. How about that?

The students were protesting the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which has seen more than 33,000 Palestinians and 1,100 Israelites killed as of Apr. 6, according to Associated Press.

The video then cuts, making it impossible to know what occurred in the interim, but then shows a student shouting, Youre a CUNY cop, to which the officer responds, F--- your mother.

In the last scene, an unidentified man can be seen slapping the phone out of the hand of the student recording the video.

WTF!



City University of NY public safety officer just said I support killing all you guys to a group of students who walked out of the graduation at the College of Staten Island.#FreePalestine #NoMoreWars #UniversityProtests pic.twitter.com/nhG5cXU8Iw  General Strike (Terrence Daniels) (@Terrence_STR) May 23, 2024

A CSI representative told the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com that the officer has been suspended pending a full investigation and that his words do not reflect the values of the college.

We condemn the offensive language used by a CUNY officer during an otherwise wonderful commencement celebrating our 2,000 graduates. His words dont reflect the values of the College of Staten Island or the 50 officers on our Public Safety staff. The officer has been suspended pending a full review of the incident, and we will take further action as appropriate, a CSI spokesperson said.

In the video, the officers uniform identifies him as Sgt. D. Girard, though a representative from CSI declined to provide the officers full name.

Hate of any kind has no place in our city, and we condemn the language used by a CUNY officer especially during whats supposed to be a joyous occasion, said a City Hall spokesperson.

CAMPUS PROTEST

This isnt the first time that CSI students have spoken out against the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which organizers have repeatedly referred to as a genocide of the Palestinian people.

Within Our Lifetime, a New York City-based pro-Palestinian organization, held a rally on the CSI campus in October which drew a crowd of roughly 100 supporters who decried decades of Israeli occupation on what they deem Palestinian land.

Were here protesting the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people and the siege and blockade on Gaza for almost 17 years now, Within Our Lifetime founder and chair Nerdeen Kiswani told the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com at the time.

Since 2007, Israel and Egypt have imposed a land, air and sea blockade on Gaza, severely limiting the flow of resources in a move some human rights groups have denounced as a collective punishment on the civilian population in response to the actions of the militant group.

This amounts to the Palestinians in Gaza living in an open-air prison, Kiswani said. They have very little access to resources, like clean water and power, and this isnt because theyre poor or its a humanitarian crisis. This is happening because of the occupation.

Supporters voiced frustration with the national medias coverage of the decades-long conflict, claiming networks selectively highlight violence against Israelis while ignoring the thousands of Palestinian deaths that have accrued.

Everything that we have been seeing on the news on what Palestine or Hamas has been doing to Israel is exactly what Palestinians have been facing for decades, Abdullah Akl, co-organizer and member of Students for Justice in Palestine and Within Our Lifetime, said at the time.

Akl took aim at local elected officials, who have banded together in support of Israel, for ignoring the cries of the Palestinian-Americans they represent.

The important thing is that these elected officials have to recognize that as representatives they must respond to their constituency and Palestinians make up a huge part of that, with thousands of Palestinians living on Staten Island, Akl said.

At the time, representatives from CSI emphasized sentiments previously expressed by the City University of New York (CUNY) Chancellor Felix V. Matos Rodriguez condemning the October Hamas attacks on Israel:

The College of Staten Island echoes the thoughts in CUNY Chancellor Felix V. Matos Rodriguezs statement to the CUNY community. We are committed to providing a safe learning and working environment for all our students, faculty, and staff, especially during these challenging times. ... In higher education, we respect the right to free speech, even when we vehemently disagree with the viewpoints presented. Any message inciting violence against any members of our community is unacceptable. As noted by the chancellor, We decry those who justify  and even celebrate  acts of terrorism as a means of furthering a political struggle.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Gov. Kathy Hochul had strong words for congressional Republicans after the second iteration of a bipartisan border deal failed to pass through the Senate today.

Here we go again: Republicans in Congress have once again blocked bipartisan legislation to secure our border and address the migrant and asylum seeker crisis. President Biden and Senator Schumer negotiated the toughest, fairest border bill in decades  but the legislation fell apart because one party refuses to compromise. The only way out of this crisis is for New Yorks 10 Members of Congress who serve in the majority to march into Speaker Johnsons office and demand he pass bipartisan legislation that helps New York. Everything else is just talk, Hochul said in a written statement.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Staten Island police detective has filed suit against the city alleging he suffered an injury at one of the boroughs NYPD precinct stationhouses.

Genaro Barreiro was seriously injured on Nov. 8, 2023, after misstepping and tripping on the last step of a staircase he was descending to the locker room of the 120th Precinct stationhouse in St. George, according to the lawsuit, filed against the City of New York on May 14 in state Supreme Court in St. George.

The suit alleges that, solely by reason of the carelessness and negligence on the part of the city, the last step of the staircase was cast in shadow and couldnt be seen clearly when coming down the rest of the flight of stairs.

Court documents state that Barreiro became disabled for a period and believes his disability will continue due to the severity of the injury he suffered.

Barreiros specific injuries are not listed or clarified in court documents.

According to the suit, the staircase was improperly maintained by the city and the light needed to see the bottom step had previously been reported as needing to be replaced but hadnt been. The court filings allege the city failed to properly supervise and control its premises and property in that the steps were not adequately lit and had shadows causing optical illusion.

The suit goes on to say that the city is at fault for failing to equip the said steps with adequate lighting and to be free from shadows creating a hidden trap.

The New York City Law Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Barreiros attorney did not respond to a request for comment.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Staten Island hospital will soon be able to increase its psychiatric capacity thanks to a $5 million state investment, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday.

Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC), West Brighton, was one of nine hospitals chosen across the state to receive a portion of a $30 million state investment. RUMCs sum was the highest a hospital received.

All New Yorkers should be able to access inpatient mental health care when and where they need it, Hochul said. These awards will provide critical capital for projects that will add new inpatient beds for psychiatric care at community-based hospitals across the state, which will help to ensure all individuals living with serious mental illness or in crisis can access the care they need to recover.

Licensed general hospitals and not-for-profit freestanding psychiatric hospitals operating programs licensed or certified by the state Office of Mental Health could apply to receive up to $5 million for projects to increase inpatient capacity as part of the $30 million investment.

The funding can be used for new inpatient beds, including those to treat individuals dually diagnosed with mental health disorders. Money can be used for construction, design costs, property acquisition, project administration and other related expenses, including permits and testing, according to Hochuls office.

Five hospitals in New York City received $19.1 million while four upstate hospitals received $11.7 million, according to Hochuls office.

Dr. Dan Messina, president and CEO of RUMC, thanked Hochul for the investment as the hospital works to expand its inpatient psychiatric capacity.

Our state and city are facing an escalating challenge in terms of the growing number of people needing quality behavioral health services, Messina said. Staten Island is no exception to this situation. This support will help us expand capacity at our hospital so that those in need can receive the care and treatment they need while remaining close to their home and families.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York state students who attend an eligible City University of New York (CUNY) and State University of New York (SUNY) can now apply for a scholarship program that offers free tuition.

Excelsior Scholarship program applications are now open for the 2024-2025 academic year, and are available to first-time students and those who never received the scholarship from households that make less that $125,000 a year.

The scholarship fills a tuition gap after federal and state financial aid  providing the potential for a tuition-free college experience for eligible state residents.

The deadline to apply is Aug. 31.

The scholarship is open to students who plan to attend a CUNY or SUNY school, including the College of Staten Island in Willowbrook.

Here are the eligibility requirements, according to the state:

Have an adjusted combined federal household income of $125,000 or less

Pursue an undergraduate degree at a SUNY or CUNY college or university

Enrolled in full-time study (at least 12 credits per term)

Complete at least 30 credits per year

In addition, scholars must live and work in New York state for a duration equal to the number of years they receive the scholarship. For example, if you received the award for four years, you will be required to live and work in New York state for four years.

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application or Dream Act application each year before payment of this scholarship.

For more information, visit www.hesc.ny.gov and search for Excelsior Scholarship.
It is almost time for Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse to learn whether their tech hub bid will be awarded about $54 million in federal funding to bolster the semiconductor industry.

All the heavy lifting is done. The application is in. Were just waiting to hear what were hoping will be really good news in the next few weeks, said Dottie Gallagher, president and CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership.

The U.S. Economic Development Administration, which is part of the Commerce Department and oversees the tech hub competition, is eyeing late June or early July to announce the winners.

If the federal money comes through, New York State has pledged to add $10 million, bringing the total value of the effort to $64 million.

The tech hub competition was launched to promote innovation in areas outside of hotbeds such as Silicon Valley. Out of about 400 applications, 31 regions were designated as tech hubs last year. That included the NY SMART I-Corridor entry submitted by Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse.

Western, upstate NY tech hub bid aims for $54 million in federal funds The "tech hub" bid submitted by Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse plans to use about $54 million in federal funds to bolster the semiconductor industry in upstate New York. Now, the three-region team will wait to find out if their entry is deemed worthy of funding, in a competition overseen by a federal agency.

The 31 tech hubs are eligible for tens of millions of dollars in federal funding, but only five to 10 of those applicants are expected to be awarded money.

The NY SMART bid centers on creating a semiconductor corridor from Buffalo to Rochester. The federal government has pushed to ramp up domestic semiconductor manufacturing for national security and supply chain reasons.

In the Syracuse area, Micron Technology plans to invest up to $100 billion in a chip-making complex. New York State has other chip-making operations, and near Columbus, Ohio, Intel is investing $20 billion into two chip-making facilities.

Put all of that manufacturing capability together, Gallagher said, and research shows that by 2033, 1 in 4 semiconductor chips made in United States will be produced within 350 miles of the NY SMART corridor.

We will produce not only 25% of all the chips in this country, this will be the largest single area for production in the United States, she said. That is with or without additional support from the federal government.

Gallagher said she sees great opportunity for manufacturers already supplying the semiconductor industry to grow, and for other manufacturers to pivot and start supplying the industry.

Weve got an incredible foundation of existing manufacturers that can take advantage of what is happening with the federal government, she said.

One of the proposals in the NY SMART application calls for creating the Supply Chain Activation Network, with a budget of $8 million and led by the University at Buffalo. SCAN would aim to build up the supply chain network for the semiconductor industry. In Genesee County, Edwards Vacuum has begun work on a $319 million plant to produce dry pumps used by the industry.

Gallagher said the tech hub designation alone  even before the funding awards  has drawn attention. In June, representatives of 20 Taiwanese companies that are part of the supply chain for Micron Technology plan to visit Western New York because of its tech hub status.

We are seeing some real opportunity here, she said.

Gallagher made a lobbying trip to Capitol Hill on Wednesday and said she found strong bipartisan support for the NY SMART tech hub bid. One of the most prominent supporters of the NY SMART bid has been U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, the Senate majority leader who championed the legislation that created the tech hub program.

While the three-region bid awaits word on funding, Gallagher said the joint effort has opened up new possibilities.

We think this level of collaboration between Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse right now just happens to be around semiconductors, she said. We think this is really a new way we can do economic development for our region, overall, to take the assets and strengths of that entire corridor and put them to work for Western New York and Central New York.
Ive been surprised at how much interest there has been, Fowler said. Its a global market and when it comes to Australia, we tick all the boxes. JLLs Josh Rutman, Jesse Radisich, Jack Bergin, Stuart Taylor, Mingxuan Li and Kate Low are running an international sales campaign, while Mark Wizels Advise Transact is representing the vendor. A high-rise apartment building on the corner of Chandler Highway was developed by Joe Russos Caydon Group before the developer collapsed. Darebin Bridge A bit further up the road, one of the longest standing For Lease signs around town is about to come down, with new tenants signed to take over the old Darebin Bridge Hotel in Ivanhoe.

The three-storey hotel at 899 Heidelberg Road has been leased to Alacrity Health Services after languishing vacant for more than 10 years. The old Darebin Bridge Hotel, at 899 Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe. Once owned by APM, the precursor to Amcor, and used as a lab for the nearby paper mill  now undergoing redevelopment  it was sold to the present owner in 1986 for $400,000. The local subsidiary of German sensor technology company Sick occupied the office for about 25 years, but it has been largely empty since Sick shifted to West Heidelberg. Alacrity has signed a five-year lease paying $83,000 a year in a deal struck by Gray Johnson agent Anthony Boldrini.

The 850 square metre building is on a 3000 square metre plot of land on the Darebin Creek on the border with Alphington. The Heidelberg Historical Society dates its construction to the 1840s. Artist Lina Bryans bought it in 1942 and turned it into an artists colony called the Pink Hotel. New values Anthony Wilsons Terraplex is having another crack at selling its three-storey East Hawthorn office building at 16-18 Cato Street, dropping the expected price to $25 million from $30 million. Fund manager Terraplex is selling the former Bunnings head office at 16-18 Cato Street, East Hawthorn. The new asking price is on par with the $24.7 million Terraplex paid in 2016 and follows a $5 million refurbishment.

Two floors of the 5295 square metre East Hawthorn building have been empty since Bunnings lease expired in 2022. International flooring group Gerflor occupies the ground floor. JLLs Tim Carr, Josh Rutman, Mark Stafford and Piper Dedrick, along with Dawkins Occhiuto agents Andrew Dawkins and Walter Occhiuto have the listing. Interest is expected from owner-occupiers still hunting for the right digs  at the right price  and funds looking for opportunistic purchases. Terraplex is evidently focused on income. The move follows the funds purchase of The Lands Building in Hobart for $57.5 million, reflecting a yield of 6.64 per cent. The 10-storey A-grade building is fully leased to the Tasmanian government. Any takers?

Another of 2023s unsold listings is back on the market at 1-3 Como Street, Malvern. The first office project built by Terry Livanidis Landis group, it was for sale at more than $35 million last year, but there were no takers. The seven-storey 3600 square metre building was originally going to be an apartment project, but Livanidis took a gamble on the office market. 1-3 Como Street, Malvern It didnt pay off and JAS LDS, the entity that developed the office, was tipped into receivership with FTI Consulting in March.

CBRE agents Scott Orchard and Tom Ryan are handling expressions of interest and declined to quote an expected price. The Cato Street numbers point the way. New hotel The first major hotel offered to the market in 2024 is Geelongs newest hotel, the Holiday Inn & Suites, which was completed last year. The 180-room hotel, part of Franze Developments Geelong Quarter Project, is expected to fetch about $70 million. The 40 Ryrie Street property has views across Port Phillip and Corio bays and includes a gym, a heated indoor pool and a ground floor restaurant, Maestro, run by chef Adrian Richardson.

Its around the corner from the new Arts Centre, Geelong Gallery and the Little Malop Street precinct. Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong JLL agents Nick Macfie and Peter Harper, with Savills Benson Zhou and Nick Lower, are handling the campaign, which closes next week. Also for sale in Geelong is a large 7111 square metre development site at 33-41 McKillop Street, across the road from the Rydges Hotel and the St John of God private hospital. Records show G-Force Recruitment owns the bulk of the site. JLLs Josh Rutman, Mark Stafford and Jesse Radisich, with local agents Darcy Jarmans Tim Darcy and Andrew Prowse are handling enquiries. Urbis is transaction manager.

Loading Theyre expecting a price in the high teens  below $20 million  for the site. Gods dwellings Still in Geelong, the Presbyterian Church is selling the historic St George Church at 13 Ryrie Street, on the corner of Latrobe Terrace. The bluestone church, built in 1861 and designed by architect Nathaniel Billing, has been gathering dust since 2015. The heritage-listed church and manse are on a large 8173 square metre site, of which 4500 square metres is developable.

Colliers agents Ben Young and Chris Nanni are handling enquiries. Its expected to sell for about $18 million and likely to be redeveloped. Back in Melbourne, the Salvation Army has also listed its historic 1882 church at 880 Mt Alexander Road for sale for $7.5 to $8 million. St Georges Church, Geelong. The former South Essendon Primitive Methodist Church, bought by the Salvos in 1995, is on a 2714 square metre lot on the corner of Buckley Street. NSL Property Groups Guy Naselli said early interest had come from hospitality groups, developers and even other church groups looking for a place of worship.
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 When Benjamin Millepied premiered Romeo & Juliet Suite in Paris in 2022, the superstar French dancer and choreographer caused quite a stir. The 46-year-old  best known for choreographing the movie Black Swan, and his short tenure at the helm of the worlds oldest ballet company, Paris Opera Ballet  admits he might have been naive about how French audiences would react to his radical take on a classic. I never thought that we would have this kind of response, he says. Benjamin Millepieds Romeo & Juliet Suite will make its Australian premiere in June. In Romeo & Juliet Suite, on any given evening, Shakespeares star-crossd lovers Romeo and Juliet are played by a man and a woman, two men, or two women. It was actually fascinating for me, Millepied says. People were saying, How dare he make Romeo and Juliet with two men? Who the f--- does he think he is? You had families who came with their kids, and kids that were thrilled to see two women on stage, and then parents arguing with the kids, or husbands who came with their wives who were like, Why am I sitting through two men doing Romeo and Juliet?

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Since its sold-out Paris debut, the critically lauded Romeo & Juliet Suite has toured Los Angeles and will travel to South Carolina in May, before landing at Sydney Opera House in June  a return to the place Millepied called home from 2020-21 as he filmed his directorial debut Carmen (then-wife Natalie Portman was shooting Thor: Love and Thunder in Australia at the same time). Millepied says he felt compelled to approach Romeo and Juliet in a fresh way: When I started to think about making it, it just made no sense to do it just for a man and a woman. Benjamin Millepied: I never thought that we would have this kind of response. Credit: Dorian Prost Even though thats the original story, I have a company of dancers with completely different lives who love men or women: I felt like it just had to be representative of love in general. Its not a political act. The productions take on gender and sexuality is just one element that makes it unlike any Romeo and Juliet youve seen before. Another is how Millepied uses live video to take audiences to other parts of the theatre and to show close-ups of the dancers. It really is special in the way that the production uses the space and gives this experience to the viewer thats not just a regular proscenium experience. Its really between dance and dance that becomes cinema before their eyes, he says. The choreographer was inspired to combine dance and cinema after listening to Sergei Prokofievs iconic score  music he first heard as a teenager studying ballet in Lyon, France. It prompted him to think about music for film, especially the work of Bernard Herrmann, the composer behind movies including Psycho and Citizen Kane.

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I had heard [the score] so much I really didnt want to have anything to do with it, he says. It had become almost elevator music to me  I had to learn to love it again. He considered making a movie using the score, initially shooting a short film starring actor and dancer Margaret Qualley. Then, in 2018, he choreographed the balcony scene to accompany performances by the LA Philharmonic; there wasnt much room for the dancers on stage, so they moved through the Walt Disney Concert Hall, followed by a camera. It was the seed for his Romeo & Juliet Suite. Nayomi Van Brunt and David Adrian Freeland Jr will make their Australian debut. Credit: Diego Uchitel Millepied knew he didnt want to make a traditional version of Romeo and Juliet. When really dramatic stories are told in dance, I dont really like when theyre told in a literal way, or in kind of an old-fashioned way, he says. Instead, he wanted to create a sense of intimacy between the audience and the dancers through film. With a camera, you can make realism and drama much, much more realistic, Millepied says. I thought it would be an interesting way to combine the emotions on stage and drama, like murder on stage. He singles out the balcony pas de deux between Romeo and Juliet, which, in his production, sees the couple move outside. In moments like these, not only are the skills of the dancers at play, but those of the camera operator. The camera is dancing with the dancers, Millepied says. Theyre sweeping and moving and turning with the dancers, and its just very, very choreographed. The upcoming Sydney season of Romeo & Juliet Suite marks the debut of Millepieds dance company LA Dance Project in Australia.

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Millepied was inspired to start the not-for-profit company in response to his experience in other institutions, including at the New York City Ballet, founded by famed choreographer George Balanchine. I tell the dancers when they get in that I love them already and that they dont have anything to prove to me, he says. Its really about making them feel confident from the go. I never, ever try to make them feel insecure. When really dramatic stories are told in dance, I dont really like when theyre told in a literal way, or in kind of an old-fashioned way. That attitude is distinct from the formal dance training he received while growing up in France and the US. Born in Bordeaux in 1977, Millepied moved to Lyon at 13 to study at the Conservatoire National. At 15, he started training at the School of American Ballet in New York. While he was studying there, he won the international dance competition, the Prix de Lausanne. He joined the New York City Ballet at 18, becoming a soloist in 1998 and principal dancer in 2002, performing in works by Balanchine, Peter Martins and Christopher Wheeldon. He left the company nine years later, in 2011, and co-founded LA Dance Project in 2012. [The New York City Ballet] was led through fear, he recalls. It was an environment where only the strongest survived and thrived, but otherwise you could really be crushed.

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Something about this years Cannes Film Festival felt particularly thrilling. Perhaps it was because most of the titles due to be released in 2024 arent that exciting. Or perhaps it was because the films competing for the coveted Palme dOr award were particularly bold.

Take, for instance, Francis Ford Coppolas sci-fi drama Megalopolis, which took $180 million of his own money to make. Then there was George Millers stunt-heavy Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, and the controversial film about Donald Trump, The Apprentice.

From Kinds of Kindness to The Substance, here are the Cannes films you should keep an eye on. Credit: Compiled by Bethany Rae.

These films dominated the conversation at Cannes, but plenty of other equally daring films were screened.

From grisly feminist body horrors to a crime musical, here are six films to watch out for now that theyve called it a wrap on the Croisette.
David Murray Quartet, Francesca The sound is as lush as ever, spilling from the speakers to fill every corner of the room. In fact, its odd that David Murrays reputation was primarily as a tearaway in the heady 1970s because he was already an unreformed romantic. You could hear that not just in his tenor saxophone sound, but in some of his compositions, as is the case here, on an album focused as much on compositional finesse as improvising skill. There are few David Murray records better recorded or as refined. The young members of Murrays new quartet were no doubt eager to immerse themselves in of one the most thrilling sounds in jazz history, eager to soak up the knowledge of an artist whos made more than 100 albums. They certainly enhance the inherent romance of the waltz-time title track, on which Murrays sumptuousness carries echoes of the great Ellington saxophonist Ben Webster in terms of vastness, plushness and breadth of vibrato. He solos with lyrical abandon before tender contributions from pianist Marta Sanchez and bassist Luke Stewart, supported by drummer Russell Carters brushes.

Murray comes from the commendable school that considers all idioms of music to be one, so the album bounces around, with the ensuing Ninno being a samba of sorts, the saxophone used to build unstoppable momentum before it goes spiralling up to Murrays trademark altissimo range. The real highlight of the piece, however, is the punchy drum solo  Carter is clearly a player who shares his leaders fondness for fat sounds. David Murray with Marta Sanchez, Luke Stewart and Russell Carter. Shenzhen is another about-face, as Murray swaps to bass clarinet to conjure up an evocative sonic picture of the Chinese metropolis, aided by Carters mallets and a bass ostinato. Murrays rather wistful melody manages to imply both the citys western and eastern characteristics, while flashes of light from the piano illuminate the shadowy bass clarinet. Murrays tenor is at its most monumental on Come and Go, the 5/4 time of which is made flowing rather than jerky, over which the saxophonist unleashes deluges of notes before we find out just how good Sanchez is, crafting effortlessly swinging lines over the odd time signature or chopping it up as with a cleaver, and simultaneously devising ingeniously intricate crosscurrents.
Loading The reporter ended up leaving Nine because she felt Wick was untouchable. Her view was that because everyone knew, and allowed it a complaint would only have harmed her own career. Other than play along with his game, and I just didnt want my work to be at all associated with his whims, she said. One of her greatest regrets remains that I havent said anything and I didnt complain. A second woman alleged Wicks alcohol-fuelled grope sessions occurred at public functions such as staff Christmas parties, the Logies and functions to celebrate TV ratings. It wasnt done in a back corner. It was like done in front of staff, said the woman, who asked not to be named as she feared her on-air role at the network may be jeopardised. She described her then-boss behaviour as sneaky arse-rubbing, or a close lingering hug or the weird kiss.

Not only did it happen to her, but the woman watched as he did the same thing to other female employees. Hed just be standing there in conversation, and then you just see his hand kind of on her back and then slowly working its way down, she recalled. You could set your watch to it that he would be inappropriately drunk every year at the Logies, said a male reporter. It was just a known quantity  that he was going to be there and be incoherently drunk and behaving inappropriately. It was just inappropriate The reporter said that he would have his arms around women ... it was just inappropriate, especially for someone in his position. Wick, whose empire included the national news division and current affairs programs 60 Minutes, A Current Affair and Today, was allegedly a repeat offender at the Logies, staff have claimed. The TV veteran had been at the network for 29 years.

His battle with alcohol saw Wick narrowly escape jail in 2021 after being caught drink-driving following a staff function. His blood-alcohol reading was more than four times the legal limit. After a stint in rehab, Wick returned to work. Staff say Wick stayed sober, and there have been no reported incidents of inappropriate behaviour since. Multiple newsroom employees said that in the cutthroat world of television news, staff were afraid to speak up because they were afraid for their own positions. A third woman, one of several women Wick allegedly groped at the Logies over the years, said that Wick was well-known as a rotten drunk who would get handsy. He kept fondling my neck in front of everyone. I could see all these people staring at us, and I was so humiliated and embarrassed, she said of his behaviour at the Logies. The woman said it was difficult to know how to handle the situation because Wick, as her boss, was the person who holds the key to your future.

She said that after hiding in the bathroom to avoid him, when she left the Logies after-party about 2am, he was hiding behind a pillar waiting for her. Wick told her he had lost his key and needed to sleep in her room. The woman organised a replacement key and helped Wick, who could barely stand, up to his room. When he tried to pull her into his room, I ended up shoving him in and slammed the door and then ran to the lift. She said once she got to her room, I was bawling my eyes out. She said she didnt feel as though she could complain as he wasnt just her boss, hes the head of news and current affairs in the entire country. Open secret

A senior figure in the network said Wicks behaviour was an open secret, and there was a feeling among female colleagues that a complaint would have been weaponised against them. Another Nine TV personality said that it was well-known to avoid sitting next to Wick at functions involving alcohol. For f--- sake, dont let me be sitting next to him, women would say to each other, she said. Sky News reported this week that one of the networks on-air stars alleged that Wick had sexually harassed her in public, groping her and breathing heavily down her neck. In January, the network received a formal complaint about Wick relating to a historical incident. It is understood that only three executives were aware of the complaint, one of which was chief executive Mike Sneesby. Its understood that Wick was asked to step aside while an external review was conducted into the complaint. Months stretched on with no word from Wick and no decision about his future.

Even though the allegation could not be substantiated due to the complainant declining to be interviewed, Nine management ultimately decided there was no way back for Wick. Late one Friday in March, Wick announced he had decided it was time to leave the newsroom, claiming he was tired. Some of you are aware that I have taken a few weeks off to think about my future. And after many long beach walks and even longer conversations, I know in my heart that this is the right time for me to step down and leave Nine ... Im tired and need a rest, said Wick. It is understood that the complainant is now taking legal action against the network. After Sky and News Corp reports this week of allegations against Wick, Sneesby told all staff in an email: It is important for everyone at Nine to know that we dont tolerate inappropriate behaviour in the workplace and want to know if there is inappropriate behaviour occurring so that it can be addressed promptly.

Theyve played us for fools Sneesbys email landed badly in the newsroom, with many women angry at what they claim is management expressing shock at the recent allegations despite the inappropriate behaviour being widely known. Staff were also upset at managements failure to be upfront about the reasons for Wicks departure in March. Theyve played us all for fools, pretending that there was no issue and that hes just on holiday, said one television employee. She said his appalling behaviour had been there for all to see for years. They certainly didnt do anything to stop it, or they just brushed it off as Its just Wicky. In response to questions from this masthead, Sneesby said: It is distressing to hear about historic behaviour issues that have caused women in our business distress. We have worked hard in recent years to establish a culture of respect across the business. We do not cover up issues, but if a complaint is raised, we must adhere to a fair process.
Wyatt sits back. You can see from her file that Mum was feisty, never afraid to tackle issues she felt were wrong, he says, before handing me the next piece of correspondence. It records the internal notes about Mona sent between native welfare officers, and their disgust that a few white townsfolk had taken Monas side.

Written to the minister of native welfare, Monas scathing complaint letter began: I am just writing these few lines to see if we are living in Lil Rock [Arkansas] or Australia. I am a coloured woman with citizen rights  surely we can have who we wish at our home, or is it just we are coloured [and so] to be ruled by the police?

What about that letter from your mother? prompts Wyatts wife, Anna, who is making chutney in the kitchen of their Perth home, while offering clues to the content and location of each catalogued item. Wyatt fishes out an extraordinary missive by his mother Mona that reveals her fury when, in 1964, a police constable just walked into my home without knocking and ordered [two white visitors] out.

Neville was also the legal guardian of every Aboriginal child in WA up to the age of 16, later 21; he could order them removed at will from their families and place them in native institutions. Nevilles steely, obsessive mission to remove children was featured in Phillip Noyces celebrated 2002 film Rabbit-Proof Fence, but for Wyatts great-grandparents, grandparents, mother and even a sibling, the stolen generations were not celluloid drama but lived reality.

Wyatt pulls another sheaf of paper out of the same folder, a letter from Western Australias notorious Chief Protector of Aborigines, A. O. Neville, who tersely rejected Bootas appeal. I think as a rule the police are averse to certificates of exemption being granted to half-castes and personally, I share the same view.

Wyatt pulls out a letter dated 1916, in the personal file of his paternal great-grandfather, Thomas Boota. He reads out loud the request penned in cursive script by Boota for an exemption permit to enter a hotel and be served a drink. I am a half-caste, married to a white woman, Boota wrote, as a shorthand way of explaining his desire for equal treatment.

Ken Wyatt reaches across the sitting room table for a thick folder, clearing a space between coffee cups and the crumbling remains of a cake. It is one of a dozen hefty family files brought down from his upstairs study for me to peruse. The files form a paper trail that spans the century leading up to Wyatts history-making role as the first Aboriginal person appointed minister responsible for Indigenous Australians.

Only after his mother Mona died in 1992 did Wyatt, as the oldest of 10 siblings, become eligible to access her files. Until then, only Monas siblings could see them. The rules have since changed, but previously no exceptions were made for anyone accessing the thousands of native welfare files stacked up in the state archive. Not even for a senior public servant, as Wyatt was back then, nor for his wife, who would find herself working in the very department charged with giving access.

You had to apply to the then Department of Aboriginal Affairs to gain permission. Like insect specimens in a museum drawer, the entire lives of Wyatts relatives were pinned down on paper to scrutinise and control; the earliest files date back to the 1890s and the latest to the end of the 1970s. Four generations of his family are recorded in hundreds of letters, reports and even receipts meticulously kept by WAs native welfare department.

For decades, Ken Wyatt had no idea of the extent of his Aboriginal familys native welfare files beyond his mothers and his own. I knew other files existed, but there are special criteria for being able to access them, he says.

Ken and Anna Wyatt have now read every last page of dozens of his relatives native welfare files. Theyve been able to draw genealogy maps that reconnect parts of his family. They admit to being shocked by what theyve read, despite their respective careers working in Aboriginal affairs  he as a federal cabinet minister, she as a long-time WA bureaucrat. The language used throughout the documents is part of it  grotesque words such as quadroon, octaroon and half-caste are scattered liberally.

There are far too many do-gooders continually advising the Wyatts that they are just downtrodden coloured unfortunates, one officer wrote, and in some cases these people are writing letters to this Department and using the Wyatt family as a lever to further their own spiritual causes.

The peak of fulfilment for a seasoned public servant arrived later in 2022 when Wyatt, as minister for Indigenous Australians, delivered his own version of the national agreement on Closing the Gap. It was the ultimate consensus  Commonwealth, states and territories, local government and Aboriginal peak bodies all signing up as joint partners to tackle poor results in Aboriginal health and education and worsening statistics for prison rates and suicides.

Wyatt still feels lucky. After teacher training and stints in schools, he took on senior state government roles as director of Aboriginal education and later, health. By 2000, hed received an Order of Australia and Centenary Medal for his work in Aboriginal health and education around the nation.

He shared with me how his mother Mona had been removed as a child to Roelands Native Mission Farm, two hours drive south of Perth. Shed returned there  an unwed mother  to give birth to Ken, marrying his father Don two months later. If I was a bastard, Ive been a lucky bastard in life, he quipped to me cheerfully at the time.

When I wrote about his political ascent, Wyatt drove me out to his home town of Corrigin, in the West Australian wheatbelt. We sat in the classroom where the native boy was rewarded with a fountain pen by his native welfare officer for good attendance each year. We walked streets where a petition was once gathered to evict the Wyatts, the towns only Aboriginal family.

Kenneth George Wyatt has carved out his own place in the nations history books. In 2010, he was the first Aboriginal person elected to the House of Representatives. In 2017, he cut a striking figure wearing a kangaroo skin cloak, or booka, when he was sworn in as Australias first Indigenous federal minister. He wore the cloak again in 2019, when he became the first Indigenous man to take on Aboriginal affairs as the federal minister under then prime minister Scott Morrison.

Eventually, he applied for all of his familys files. A 2016 letter accompanied one batch of folders, signed by Anna Wyatt, Director, Family History Records. Dear Ken, wrote his wife, Please find attached material relating to your application for family history records  Please be aware that some of the information you receive may be distressing or offensive in the way it is written which reflects the language and customs of the time at which it was written.

But, at nearly 72, Ken Wyatt has also had time to confront the demons of his familys past, reading the weighty files that occupy floor space in his upstairs study. That contemplation has changed him; where once there was no hint of rancour about his tough upbringing, theres a flinty edge today to some of his utterances. For the first time, hes keen to share the content of his own native welfare files, despite previously choosing not to make political capital out of them.

Meanwhile, the sideboard in the Wyatts large home hints at other distractions: photos of a first grandchild born to Aaron, one of two boys from Wyatts first marriage; and images of Aarons musical ascent as one of Australias first Indigenous orchestral conductors. Wyatt and Anna proudly attended the all-Indigenous opera Wundig Wer Wilura during this years Perth Festival, conducted by Aaron Wyatt.

These days, Wyatt has time to think about what went wrong. And Australias highest Indigenous political achiever has surprising ideas for a new frontier in Aboriginal representation, of which more later.

Morrisons bloodbath defeat in the 2022 election saw Wyatt tipped out of his Perth hills seat of Hasluck after four terms as a popular local member. In April 2023, after 30 years loyalty, Wyatt resigned in disgust from the Liberal Party; a day earlier, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton had announced the Liberals would back the no side of the Voice referendum campaign. Wyatt threw his wholehearted support behind the yes vote, ending up disappointed beyond words.

At nearly 72, Ken Wyatt has had time to confront the demons of his familys past  and that contemplation has changed him.

Even local governments signed off on it  in a crude sense it was a treaty, he says proudly. We got nearly a billion dollars in new money, embedded through every agency, and every state and territory minister had to commit and come back with new initiatives. That was under Morrison  I would give him credit for that.

Chief Protector Neville clearly kept a close eye on the family, especially their children. Do they attend school and is their condition such that it would be advisable to have them removed to our Moore River [native] settlement? he queried.

The boy adopted the name Joe Abdullah and later married Mary Griffin, described in her files as a half-caste. The couple found themselves living some distance north of Perth at New Norcia, a rural Aboriginal mission run by Spanish monks; their children, including Wyatts maternal grandfather Ben, would be duly registered in the parlance of the day as quadroon or quarter-caste.

Ken Wyatt is a Yamatji-Noongar man whose Aboriginal father Don  an RAAF truck driver turned railway ganger  was part-Irish. But another extraordinary lineage has come to light in his family archives. He is descended from an Indian boy who stowed away on a ship from Madras in 1894 and disembarked at Geraldton, on WAs Mid West coast, with his two brothers.

Morrison went on to criticise an era of governments thinking they know better. Fortunately, that boy was bigger than the times, and Im honoured that he now sits behind me as the Minister for Indigenous Australians.

Only once have they been publicly raised, by Morrison himself in his 2020 parliamentary speech on Closing the Gap. In days that some in this chamber will remember, Morrison said, the government had absolute control over Aboriginal peoples lives: where they could live, where they could travel, who they could marry. Government files held details  often brutal in their brevity  that the people themselves were not allowed to know. I have one such file here with me from the Department of Native Welfare. File 1690/68: a file of the native welfare department. The file is for a boy, a teenager. In this file there are notes about funding for school uniforms. There is a memo to the Commissioner of Native Welfare about whether the boy should be provided pocket money of 75 cents a week. It was bureaucrats making decisions for what they paternally called a good type of lad.

The cruel twist is that by becoming an honorary white, you were denied access to your natural family, your siblings, and your culture. Ken Wyatt

In 1941, Ben  who was officially classed as white enough to be a non-native  had to seek permission from the commissioner of native affairs to marry his Aboriginal fiancee Maisie, Wyatts maternal grandmother. Among the documents is a stern directive to Maisie from Native Affairs: If at any time your intended husband is found living and associating with other natives, action may be taken to have him classed as a native, to which he strongly objects. You share some responsibility, therefore, in seeing that you both live apart from other natives.

Wyatt winces slightly as I read the words out loud. The cruel twist is that by becoming an honorary white, you were denied access to your natural family, your siblings, and your culture, he explains.

The files record that the wedded couple waited years to receive their certificate of citizenship to the country they were born in  Ben in 1946, Maisie in 1949. When they had children, including Wyatts mother Mona, the children were removed to a rural mission. Mum was four when she went into Roelands Mission. When I was four, Id overhear Mum and her siblings talking about the mission days but if we kids got too close, theyd go quiet. I think her time there was quite tough  theyd often go barefoot and Mum would talk about rounding up cows on frosty mornings and then standing in the fresh cowpats just to warm their feet.

We would never get a hug from Mum because they were never hugged as children, he adds. You were just part of a community in which parenting wasnt modelled to them. There are letters Ive seen where Mums father wrote several times asking for his kids to be released. The history of her life is in those files.

Roelands Mission, where Wyatts mum, Mona, was taken at age four. Credit: Courtesy of Ken Wyatt

Mona was sent out to work as a domestic help on farms. Filed receipts show she was paid 30 shillings a week by her employer, but he was instructed to withhold most of her wage and send it to the state for safekeeping. I believe that the money held in trust was used to fund the department  Mum never got it, says Wyatt.

If so, Mona and hundreds of Aboriginal domestic workers like her were footing the bill for the bureaucracy that controlled their lives. People cant grasp the fact of having their money taken by a government agency, says Wyatt, spreading out a sheaf of letters Mona wrote asking to be sent money to buy underwear or a pair of shoes.

Native welfare tracked Monas marriage to Wyatts father and the arrival of their 10 children. In 1959, Mona tried to gain citizenship rights; it took three years. When Mum applied, she did it so she could access what was available to other people and to enable a better journey for her kids into education.

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Wyatts own native welfare file (1690/68) is slim; he discovered that other volumes had been destroyed in the late 1960s, when the pride of officialdom in controlling thousands of Aboriginal lives was crumbling into disrepute.

Norm Harris, an Aboriginal man I knew in the welfare office, told me that he was instructed to burn them. As they burnt each page, they could see names and details, like who the father of a kid was. Norm said he found it very hard to destroy factual records that had been kept by the state  they are peoples birthright.

Norm and the others tried to hide some of the files under the building but one of the non-Indigenous officers saw them. They were made to go back in, pull them out and continue burning them in a 44-gallon drum.

A paper mountain of evidence remains lodged in Western Australias archives; half the states Indigenous adults are, like Wyatt, documented members of the stolen generations or their descendants. According to Yokai, the WA stolen generations body, 6400 survivors were still alive when figures were last collated in 2018-19. In the week before tomorrows National Sorry Day, Yokai members were set to gather in the forecourt of WAs Parliament House, their banners declaring that, during the life of the policy, one in every three Aboriginal children  the nations highest rate  was removed from blood relatives and put into one of 80 institutions across the state.

It grieves Wyatt that WA was the first state to make a formal apology to the stolen generations, in 1997, yet is likely to be the last to compensate them. The WA Labor government says it has given first priority to settling a longstanding claim for stolen wages; last year, it offered $16,500 to each of the thousands of eligible Aboriginal workers  many in the Kimberley pastoral industry  who were paid minimal or no wages at all because the native welfare department withheld up to 75 per cent of earnings. Yet every other state except Queensland has established compensation schemes for the stolen generations, including Tasmania (2006), South Australia (2015), NSW (2017) and Victoria (2021).

Ive never forgotten how one survivor told me, Theyre just waiting for us to die.  Ken Wyatt

And it was Wyatt himself, as federal minister, who ensured that the stolen generations were compensated in commonwealth jurisdictions. A one-off payment of $75,000 has been offered to people who were removed as children in the Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory and Jervis Bay Territory. He describes Western Australia as a wayward child because of its refusal to embark on a scheme to pay out victims. Its disappointing and needs to be addressed.

The WA government is monitoring the progress of other schemes before it acts, the states minister for Aboriginal affairs Tony Buti said last year. Wyatt finds the ministers statement deeply ironic  Dr Buti wrote his doctoral thesis on the stolen generations, and even described the policy as genocide, in a submission he wrote to the 1997 Bringing Them Home inquiry into child removal when he was a legal aid lawyer.

Compensation is owed for the severing of family connection, says Wyatt. My mother had two families  she had the mission kids, but then her own siblings that she didnt catch up with until later in life because they were all in separate missions. Many survivors die young, before they are old enough to even access their superannuation. Ive never forgotten, says Wyatt, in that flinty-edged voice, how one survivor told me, Theyre just waiting for us to die. 

Young Ken with his mum and baby brother Lindsay. We would never get a hug from Mum because they were never hugged as children. Credit: Courtesy of Ken Wyatt

Wyatt says Morrison was right that most Australians dont know how controlled the lives of Aboriginal people were  wages taken, marriages banned, citizenship rights denied. The yawning gap in comprehension emerges in even well-meaning gestures. Wyatt remembers Liberal MP Michaelia Cash, also from WA, greeting a group of Aboriginal women in a tough Perth suburb. She said to this woman, I empathise with you. The woman turned on her and snarled, What would you f---ing know about what Ive been through? 

Ken Wyatt has a reputation as a man slow to anger. He was variously nicknamed Zen, Yoda, even the Scented Candle  by Morrison  for his habit of calming disputes. But last year, in April, Wyatt angrily dispatched a one-line email to WA Liberal headquarters: I hereby cancel my membership. It ended three decades of party membership; Anna Wyatts resignation soon followed.

A few hours after he sent that email, I sat waiting for him in a cafe in Kalamunda, a Perth hills suburb, where the genial local member used to hold Coffee with Ken mornings. As Wyatt entered, several locals came up to greet him. He was unusually florid-faced, furious that Peter Dutton had declared the Liberals would actively campaign against the Indigenous Voice to parliament.

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Wyatt had always been strongly in favour. In October 2019, he had put before his Liberal colleagues a proposal to legislate the Voice and to have it focus on local and regional committees. And then after 18 months, having shown the effectiveness of a regional Voice, Id have stood up a national body. It would have consisted of members elected by regional and local voices, not by governments or Canberra elites as Dutton claimed. There wasnt a ripple of dissent.

After Wyatts political career abruptly ended in 2022, he joined the new Albanese governments referendum working group to advance the proposals that emerged from the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart. Wyatt accepted the view that enshrining a Voice in the constitution was important, given the litany of legislated bodies that had been discarded. Governments have abolished every advisory body ever created, even though some were very effective, he says. I cant think of one that has lasted 50 years.

But Wyatt soon sensed trouble. The Coalitions if you dont know, vote no strategy was undermining the yes campaign. Three years ago, I had people in my electorate saying the Voice was a great concept. Then people started saying, I dont like this, I dont know how this is going to work. 

He believes a turning point in public opinion came when Uluru Dialogue co-chair Megan Davis began talking about the broad scope of the Voices advisory powers in relation to Indigenous issues. She effectively said that the Voice would be involved in everything from defence to the Reserve Bank, he says. Up until then, people had seen the Voice as focusing on issues to do with Indigenous people and communities. When we got into other areas, people started to shift and the no fear campaign gained traction.

The tactic found fertile ground in WA, where the Farmers Federation was running a parallel campaign against new and stronger state Aboriginal cultural heritage laws. People used the Cultural Heritage Act as a weapon in talking about special conditions for a special race, how it divided people and impeded development, he says. It took me straight back to the Mabo native title decision and the fear that there goes our backyard. And yet there was not a single backyard lost under Mabo.

Wyatts optimism about a yes result evaporated as he toured his own state. The best meeting I went to was in Margaret River, where the people were totally engaged and passionately in favour. Everywhere else I went in Western Australia they said, This is too hard. I was committed to trying to shift opinion to the end  I even drove around to four polling booths. But I could tell we were pushing logs up a hill.

On October 14, the no case resoundingly won. The no rate in WA was 63.5 per cent, higher than the national average of 60 per cent and the third highest after Queensland and South Australia. I felt pissed off  You cant describe degrees of disappointment, he says. When the Aboriginal leadership decided on a week of silence afterwards, that was to prevent those who felt pure anger from saying stuff we didnt need to say.

The failure of the Voice referendum has seen Wyatt embrace a surprising new idea: to stand up an Aboriginal party for the Senate.

But feeling bitter is wasted energy. You have to accept a setback and think, How do we recover lost ground? Its now becoming evident that governments have been spooked by the 60 per cent of people who voted no. They see it as a reason to not be too ambitious. A state minister told me the no vote does impact on our thinking. A public servant told me, Its hard to get stuff up because it could cost votes. Captains of industry told me they were worried about the impact of their stance on the Voice and shareholder backlash. Weve even seen local governments saying, Get rid of welcome to country ceremonies because therell be no blowback [to not having one] now. 

Wyatt thinks the nation needs to put a foot on the pedal on Closing the Gap. He points to only four of 15 targets being on track, according to the 2023 Closing the Gap Annual Data Compilation Report. Others have deteriorated, resulting in more adults in prison, more children in out-of-home care and a rising rate of Indigenous suicide.

Every word in the Closing the Gap agreement was signed off by national cabinet and by 51 Aboriginal peak bodies. Premiers took it to their own cabinets to sign off. So now every government has a responsibility to start acting on the targets.

If you had an Indigenous-led party in the Senate, you could then set your own agenda. It would become an Indigenous voice, only its constitutional. Ken Wyatt

The failure of the referendum has seen Wyatt embrace a surprising new idea: to stand up an Aboriginal party for the Senate.

Its always been in the back of my mind, he says,because the Senate is where you can hold the balance of power and directly influence potential benefits. I observed the election of people like Brian Harradine, Pauline Hanson, Derryn Hinch, and saw the influence of Harradine in a hung Senate negotiating tremendous returns for Tasmania. I then formed the view that we should do the same in order to effect the change we need. Because history shows that both major parties have not done it.

If you had an Indigenous-led party in the Senate, you could then set your own agenda. It would become an Indigenous voice, only its constitutional because its part of the parliamentary structure.

A footnote in the family records has played a part in his thinking. Wyatts great-uncle George Abdullah son of Ben and grandson of Indian-born Joe Abdullah  stood for the Senate in 1975. He came within a handful of votes of winning a Senate seat and was the first West Australian Aboriginal to do so, says Wyatt proudly. Just imagine if we got a candidate up in every state. You could then be in the same position [of power] as the crossbench, and when government came for support, then wed say, Were interested in supporting you provided youre prepared to work with us on Closing the Gap, or reducing high incarceration rates with diversionary programs. It would develop a future thats very different from whats in my mothers files.

He rejects the argument that having a number of individual Indigenous politicians in federal parliament is enough. When people say, There are 11 Aboriginal voices in parliament, thats enough, let me tell you, that doesnt work. Aboriginal politicians like me, a cabinet minister who aspired to achieving things, cant do them because you are beholden to the party room or cabinet. If you dont get their endorsement, your proposition doesnt get up. He mentions prominent Aboriginal names that he would love to have as candidates, but declines to publicly name them. Whether any are interested is not clear even to Wyatt. He wouldnt personally stand: Im too old, and I have a wife who would kill me if I did, he says, looking across at Anna, who nods vigorously.

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So as he sorts through ministerial archive boxes that outnumber the family files, what does Ken Wyatt think he achieved in his parliamentary career?

First, that I influenced a lot of federal members to work closely with their own [indigenous] communities in their electorates. There were substantially more references in speeches about Aboriginal people as a result.

Second, the fact that I got everybody to sign off on the Closing the Gap strategy. And third, being elected into the House of Representatives opened the door for other people to put their hand up. He was followed in 2016 by Linda Burney, the first Aboriginal woman to be elected to the House of Representatives, and, after his seat loss, by Dr Gordon Reid and Marion Scrymgour in 2022. They are the current House members; in the Senate, there are six Indigenous members.

As we clear tea cups and cake crumbs away and stack the files for their return to his study, Wyatt offers a final observation, flecked with indignation. When I read through the files, I come away thinking weve been resilient against enormous pressure. But were still fighting for the right to determine our own futures. The Closing the Gap report shows few targets are on track, and our young people are still 24 times more likely to be in prison than non Indigenous kids.

He wonders whether future compensation claims will emerge from Indigenous policies that are as futile today as those that were clamped around every facet of his mothers life.

I would be concerned that in 50 years time, we might have a legal firm that goes through every layer of the national Closing the Gap agreement and says, You all agreed to this in a formal document signed off by Commonwealth and all state and territory cabinets. Yet 50 years later, theres no improvement.

Then governments might face the very legal challenges they face now with profound compensation for the removal of children and stolen wages that weve seen already. Its quite possible.

To read more from Good Weekend magazine, visit our page at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Brisbane Times.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size This is the story of two very rich Australians, a petrol station magnate and his beloved son. It is also a story of a federal organised crime probe into the source of the sons vast suspected wealth. John Dib, 66, is the epitome of an Australian migrant success story, amassing his familys estimated $643 million fortune over decades of striving, having transformed a sole Caltex outlet in Sydneys Punchbowl into Australias largest independent chain of petrol stations. If you have refuelled in Sydney, Melbourne or Canberra, youve likely helped build a fortune that has seen Dib rub shoulders with politicians and sponsor an NRL team. John Dib, founder of the Metro Petroleum chain. His son, George Dib, 40, has also grown vast wealth selling what the business world calls fast-moving consumer goods. But where Johns cash cow is petrol, police suspect part of Georges business is drugs. The Australian Federal Police outlined their suspicions in a letter to Colombian authorities saying: George Dib is the [suspected] leader of an international criminal group involved in large-scale imports of cocaine, MDMA and other illicit substances. There is no suggestion that John or any other member of the Dib family has any involvement or have in any way assisted in his sons suspected criminality.

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George Dib has never been convicted of a crime and was acquitted a decade ago when charged with possession of a trafficable quantity of drugs in the ACT. But this masthead has confirmed that investigators from federal agencies have pored over George Dibs possible interactions with his Australian familys booming business empire as they try to hold the 40-year-old to account from his haven in Lebanon. George Dib jnr is a much-loved son of my brother, John, and nephew of myself. George Dib snr Having gathered intelligence that makes George Dib one of Australias most significant organised crime targets for enforcement agencies, investigators have probed if he has ever exploited his unwitting relatives or any part of their business empire to shift or conceal his wealth. The revelations of the designation and the probe are news to his family, which is not accused of any wrongdoing or in any way assisting George Dibs suspected activity. George Dib jnr is a much-loved son of my brother, John, and nephew of myself, said George Dib snr, who co-owns The Dib Group and Metro Petroleum chain with John. He has no current business relationship with The Dib Group of companies or with John, his father, or with me, his uncle, or to the best of our knowledge and belief with any other family members here in Australia.

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The targeting of the younger George Dibs wealth is part of a years-long effort by Australian agencies to dismantle an international criminal empire allegedly responsible for multiple drug importations. It also signifies a shift in Australian police tactics as they deal with a generation of suspected organised criminals who have sought to elude capture by moving offshore. Loading That strategy has already paid significant dividends, with Australian police convincing authorities in the UAE and Cyprus to arrest or deport key targets. George Dibs story has been uncovered by this masthead as part of an investigation into a group of suspected Australian organised crime bosses and their associates who relocated to Dubai in an attempt to thwart domestic law enforcement agencies efforts to dismantle the so-called Aussie Cartel. Last week, this masthead and 60 Minutes teamed with a coalition of investigative journalists to reveal how a massive leak of UAE land title data had enabled reporters to pinpoint the Dubai multimillion-dollar property acquisitions of Aussie Cartel members and associates, along with warlords, corruption suspects and corrupt political figures from around the world. The property leak prompted sharp criticism of the UAE over its lax anti-money-laundering controls and highlighted its role as one of several Middle Eastern bases offering a degree of impunity for suspected organised criminals flooding the Australian drug market.

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The revelations also prompted calls by former federal police officer turned anti-money-laundering expert John Chevis for more action by Australian authorities to stop dirty money leaving Australia. While George Dib isnt a Dubai property owner, serving and former law enforcement officials, along with an underworld figure close to Dib, confirmed that he had used Dubai as an operating hub before shifting to Lebanon, where he has suspected connections to senior government and military officials. Tim OConnor, the former director of operations at the NSW Crime Commission, says George Dib featured consistently as a suspect in major drug importation investigations and was regarded by law enforcement agencies as a well-connected person who was regarded as a prominent member of the Aussie Cartel. A former federal investigator said George Dib was suspected to have cultivated connections to senior Lebanese officials to tip him off about Australian law enforcement interest. A police file sighted by this masthead also warns that George Dib has connections to government officials in Australia, but does not specify who they are or where they work. Tristan Waters admitted to conspiring to possess more than a tonne of cocaine. The AFPs lengthy pursuit of George Dib resulted in the recent jailing of his long-term associate, the formerly Dubai-based Canberra-born businessman Tristan Waters.

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Waters was jailed in April in NSW for a maximum 20 years in connection to a $1.5 billion shipment of cocaine bound for Australia and seized in 2017. George Dib and Waters have a long history together. In November 2008, Dib, then 24 years old, was under police surveillance in Canberra, and police alleged he was seen with a bag over his shoulder getting into a ute being driven by his mate, Waters. The pair drove to a shopping centre where they were pulled over. At Dibs feet, police found a bag containing a trafficable quantity of cocaine and MDMA. Having been cautioned, Waters was offered the opportunity to call a friend or relative. He called his uncle, Egon Struss. The judgment from that 2011 judge-only trial reveals that Waters would later helpfully offer that: Struss was wanted by the police in relation to a number of matters, including drug-trafficking and either money laundering or ripping people off, stealing lots of money from all types of individuals including his family. Waters told the trial that his uncle had been sitting in the passenger seat earlier that day and that he had not seen Dib put the bag in the car. Waters said his uncle had since disappeared. The possibility that it was Struss who had placed the bag of drugs in the car was key to the defence, and in the end, the case against Waters was dropped while the judge found Dib not guilty. Struss has no criminal convictions to this day, although police still believe he is an associate of Dib and Waters.

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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 Crown Resorts and The Star glare across at each other from either side of Darling Harbour, with all the swagger and scandal and shame of the last decade passing as water under Pyrmont Bridge. Once great rivals, they are no longer in competition. One casino is fully compliant, and empty. The other has customers, and is at risk of losing its licence. An overlooked detail from the troubles that have swept the casino industry in recent years is that they began by accident. In 2019, James Packer, the controlling shareholder of Crown Resorts, was desperate to sell. Each morning he woke up and reviewed the profit and loss statements; each morning his day would be made or ruined by the results. Slave to a notoriously volatile industry and, as he later revealed, battling internal demons, the billionaires state of mind was a day-to-day proposition. James Packer was desperate to off load Crown. Credit: Getty He nearly sold to Wynn Resorts, only for the buyer to walk away from the deal when it was prematurely leaked to the press. Salvation arrived in the form of Macau-based casino operator Lawrence Ho, son of the shady gambling tycoon Stanley Ho, whose company Melco Resorts offered to buy nearly half Packers stake for $1.8 billion. He snatched up the offer before even consulting the board.

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At that moment, the first domino fell. The NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authoritys chair Philip Crawford had been disturbed by stories appearing in the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age reporting that Crown had formed relationships with junket operators who were backed by organised crime syndicates. Crown was due to open a casino in Sydney, and had yet to be provided the opportunity to engage in wrongdoing in NSW. But the sale of a 20 per cent share in Crown Resorts to the son of a prohibited casino operator, without gaining the requisite approvals, was the excuse Crawford needed to open the inquiry that the Victorian regulator would not. By the time the Bergin Inquiry opened in 2020, Ho had abandoned the deal citing the coronavirus pandemic, but the train had already set off. It would soon become a wreck. State after state had no choice but to follow suit with their own inquiries. The Bergin report resulted in the cancellation of Crown Melbournes casino licence and delayed the opening of Crown Sydney. Inevitably, The Star fell under the same scrutiny. And by the time the world emerged from the pandemic, the overseas VIP market that the casino industry hoped would sustain it for years to come had disappeared. All it was left holding was a folder of new regulations. Uncharted territory The respective challenges facing Crown and The Star in Sydney pose the question: is it even possible for them to turn a profit in the brave new world of casino regulation? Their executives privately concede theyre in uncharted territory. They are now required to collect a significant amount of identification and financial information about their customers, conduct regular welfare checks on gamblers and, come August, The Star must meet its deadline to take its 1500 poker machines cashless.

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These regulations do not extend to the 400-odd pubs and clubs that operate 98 per cent of the states poker machines. Some of the biggest have quarterly revenue figures that make Crown and The Star envious. Both have been clear theyve already lost customers to venues that do not have the same administrative burden. And this follows hard on a second judicial inquiry, almost as embarrassing as the first, which finished on Wednesday with a recommendation from counsel assisting for the commissioner to find The Star unsuitable for a casino licence. Most of its executives have left the company. Its market capitalisation has plummeted from $5 billion in 2018 to less than $1.5 billion. And predators are circling. Crown, now owned by US private equity giant Blackstone, was recently given a clear bill of health by the regulator to operate its operations in NSW. But it has struggled to find a market. Last year it shut one floor and made about 300 people redundant. The parent company recently cut another 1200 staff. Crowns Sydney casino was already prevented from operating poker machines in NSW due to an exclusivity agreement between The Star and the state government that does not expire until 2041. But the VIP high roller market on which its business model was premised has evaporated on the back of COVID-19 and a Chinese government crackdown. Its best hope now is domestic whales  a much smaller proposition with limited growth potential. Speaking to the Herald hours after regaining suitability in NSW last month, Crown boss Ciaran Carruthers admitted the company could not have met the regulators remediation timeframes without the deep pockets of its private equity backers. Their funding was necessary to get us through what we knew would be a very expensive remediation program that required us to move mountains, Carruthers said.

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But he stopped short of conceding the added due diligence at Crown would permanently eat into the groups profits. Other sources within the business, who are not authorised to speak publicly, say its flagship Melbourne casino has bled customers since transitioning its pokies to totally cashless play. Despite making less money than ever, both Sydney casinos will soon be required to pay more tax with Crown Sydney due to hand over $1 billion in taxes to the state government by 2032 and Star Sydney due to pay $2.7 billion in duty rates from 2030 to 2040. Whether either casino manages to cough up even a fraction of this amount seems unlikely given gaming analysts expect both casinos to remain in the red for the forseeable future. The only Crown casino that has returned to pre-COVID levels of profitability is Perth, which also happens to be the only city where it has poker machine exclusivity. One person not surprised by Crowns financial trouble is Chris Sidoti, who was chairing the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority when then-premier Barry OFarrell decided to give Crown a licence to operate in NSW in 2013. It was his task to sign off on the suitability of Crown to run a casino, but the government never asked him whether there should be a second casino in Sydney, probably, he says, because he would have said no. I was always sceptical about the capacity of Crown in Sydney to turn a profit, Sidoti says. I would have said, Without poker machines its not going to be financially viable. Local gaming analysts and some US investors question whether Blackstones purchase of Crown will ever pay off and baulk at the hundreds of millions of dollars it has poured into regulatory compliance to regain suitability.

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Inside Asian Gaming consultant David Green, who worked in Macau for five years and earlier at the South Australian regulator, predicts that Crown has hit rock bottom and can return to profitability if Blackstone continues to hold faith. But it will be difficult for the Sydney franchise to reach the scale it originally envisaged without international VIPs or poker machines, he says. The VIP market is pretty much dead and thats almost a global phenomenon now because the traditional Chinese junkets have really lost favour with regulators and jurisdictions around the world, Green says. The only place you will see them operating are less regulated places like the Philippines. Having said that, the VIP market was never likely to be as profitable as the so-called grind market because its players prefer games such as Baccarat where the losses are lower, and they expect compensating benefits such as hotel accommodation, personal hosts, food and support staff, he says. Poker machines, on the other hand, virtually run themselves. Its quicker and easier to make money on poker machines than VIP customers. Credit: Edwina Pickles Its all about velocity of money. The thing about VIP players is you cant dabble in that market. Youre either in, but youre all in, or youre not in it  [because] the market is volatile. IGamiX Management and Consulting managing partner Ben Lee once had the job of attracting such players for The Star casino in Adelaide. The domestic VIPs were people with their own businesses who had access to cashflow and typically spent $30,000 to $50,000 in a session, maybe $100,000 for an interstate traveller. He remembers customers who owned jewellery shops, audio shops, groceries and a baker who cooked bread from 3am to 11am and then handed over to his wife while he headed to the casino. Theyre the bread and butter in terms of domestic VIPs and yes, particularly in Crown Sydney, they would be going after The Stars VIP market, thats for certain, Lee says. But they tend not to splurge as much as the internationals.

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Warning: This story contains graphic content.

Sydney MP Alex Greenwich received a series of vile homophobic voice messages after the then NSW One Nation leader Mark Latham targeted him in a graphic and offensive tweet about his sexuality, the Federal Court has heard.

Greenwich is suing Latham for defamation over the tweet posted in the days after the NSW election last year. The barrister acting for the independent MP for Sydney, Dr Matt Collins, KC, told the court on Friday that the post triggered a wave of hateful vitriol, including in explicit voice messages.

Sydney MP Alex Greenwich is suing for defamation over a tweet by independent MP Mark Latham. Credit: SMH

Collins said that the views expressed in those messages had never been articulated with such ferocity before, and this all arises as a direct result of what Mr Latham did.
After a high-speed chase ended with a vehicle ramming a motorcycle into rocks and trees, Steven Dale Latter stole a backpack containing thousands of dollars belonging to the lifeless rider.

Latter had driven the vehicle that dangerously pursued Jakob Opacics bike, while encouraged or motivated by his passenger Benjamin Charles Johnson, a Brisbane court heard on Thursday.

Benjamin Johnson (left) and Steven Latter were initially charged with murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter while Latter also admitted stealing from Opacic. Credit: Facebook

Latter and Johnson pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of the 29-year-old brother of rugby league star Tom Opacic on a road at Natural Bridge in the Gold Coast hinterland in July 2021.

Opacics mother, Rhonda, sobbed as the court heard Latter took her sons backpack after the crash and made no attempt to help him or check if he was alive.
Stones Corner, the working-class suburb once known as Brisbanes clothing outlet capital, is staring urban renewal squarely in the face.

Almost 400 units across four developments are now being built in the inner-southern suburb known more widely for the pub with the same name and the shopping strip.

Working-class Stones Corner faces urban renewal pressures as almost 400 units offering newer homes are now under construction. Credit: Tony Moore

Bookshop owner Michael Weibler moved into Logan Road 13 years ago and now chairs the local business association. He acknowledged that the location of Stones Corner made it ripe for change.

We are on the main rail Cleveland line, we have the Eastern Busway just here and were on Old Cleveland Road and Logan Road, so we are at the confluence of other regular bus routes as well, Weibler said.
Graphic content warning.

Almost two years to the day missing camper Carol Clay was shot in the head in the remote Wonnangatta Valley, crime scene examiners scouring the bush floor found a single fragment of skull.

A week later a further collection of unburnt cranial fragments was uncovered at the same camping site, colloquially referred to as Bucks Camp and popular with deer hunters.

A police crime scene photo of Bucks Camp in the remote Wonnangatta Valley.

They would be the only remains of Clay found and linked to her via DNA testing during an extensive police investigation that culminated in an arrest and police statement from accused killer Gregory Lynn.
West Australian police have charged former AFL player Barry Cable with the alleged historical sexual abuse of a girl.

The 80-year-old faces criminal charges that he allegedly indecently dealt with, and had unlawful carnal knowledge of, a girl who police say was just nine to 10 years old at the time.

Disgraced AFL legend Barry Cable (left, centre) and WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch.

On Friday, police said they would allege Cable had sexually assaulted a girl between 1967 and 1968. He faces five counts of indecently dealing with a girl under 13 and two counts of unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under 13.

Cable was a two-time premiership player with North Melbourne in the 1970s.
Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds will attempt to add a fresh claim to her high-stakes defamation row with Brittany Higgins, after WhatsApp messages tendered as evidence allegedly showed the former staffer colluded with fiancee David Sharaz on a now-deleted tweet.

During a hearing in the WA Supreme Court on Friday, Reynolds lawyer Martin Bennett said the exchange, which surfaced in a court-ordered document swap and was tendered as evidence, showed Higgins collaborated on the January 27, 2023 post.

David Sharaz, Brittany Higgins (centre) and Linda Reynolds engaged in mediation talks on Tuesday. Credit: Trevor Collens

That included an exchange in which Higgins and Sharaz allegedly debated who should publish the post based on the size of their respective online followings.

Bennett said his client would seek the courts permission to extend the limitation period or amend her claim to add the post to the case on the basis Higgins was also a publisher in the eyes of the law.
Thank you for joining us today as we brought you the news you needed to know.

We leave you with breaking news that ex-AFL player, 80-year-old Barry Cable, has been charged over historic child sexual abuse between 1967 and 1968.

Cable will appear before the Perth Magistrates Court next week, facing a string of charges related to alleged indecent dealing with, and unlawful carnal knowledge of, a girl under 13.

In other crime news, a mother has been found guilty of forcing her 20-year-old daughter to marry an older man before he murdered the young woman.

Sakina Muhammad Jan, from Victorias north, faced a two-week trial in the County Court after denying she coerced her daughter into marrying the man from Western Australia in 2019.

She was charged with causing a person to enter into a forced marriage.

And, on a lighter note, columnist Kate Halfpenny writes that watching West Coast Eagles young gun Harley Reid play footy has made her feel hopeful among all the terrible things happening in the world.

We look forward to your company next week and hope you enjoy your weekend.
But the ugliness and the frustration were only just beginning. Sixteen months later, Rudd struck again, and won. Partly because of the years of Labor leadership chaos, Rudd lost the next election to Abbott. Loading The Liberals had been stunned at the insanity of Labors self-destruction. But rather than take it as a case study in political stupidity, they adopted it as the ideal. When the Coalition was in opposition, Abbott had torn down Turnbulls leadership. Now that they were in power, Turnbull returned the favour. Much to prime minister Abbotts dismay. Calling a party room meeting to settle the leadership in 2015, Abbott said: I have been most heartened by the messages of support flooding in to Liberal MPs offices saying most emphatically: We are not the Labor Party. This country needs strong and stable government and that means avoiding, at all costs, Labors revolving-door prime ministership. He concluded: I firmly believe that our party is better than this, that our government is better than this, and, by God, that our country is so much better than this.

By that evening he was gone. The Liberals were, in fact, the Labor Party. The country was no better than that. The cannibalism, of course, continued. Dutton challenged Turnbull unsuccessfully, opening the way for Scott Morrison to come through the middle and seize the prime ministership. Australian politics has entered an era marked by the doctrine of the disposable leader, wrote Tiffen, emeritus professor in government at Sydney University, in his 2017 book, aptly titled Disposable Leaders. Then-prime minister Malcolm Turnbull and his treasurer, Scott Morrison, who was ambitious for him(self) in 2018. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen So whats happened? Where is the instability? Has the mania died? The first sign that something had changed was when Morrison was permitted a full term as leader, unchallenged. Remarkably, he was the first prime minister since John Howard to be allowed the luxury. And now, two years of Albanese as prime minister without even the least hint of the most speculative of speculations.

The easy answer is that the two main political parties changed their internal rules to make it harder to stage a coup. But its only a partial answer. Loading For one, an aspirant doesnt need a formal party-room challenge to inflict fatal damage to the leader. For another, if a challenger has the numbers to destroy a leader, they could well have the numbers to change the rules first and then plunge ahead with a challenge. In reality, the rule changes are little more than a speed bump for a determined wrecker. There is a bigger explanation for the change. It has three parts, as Tiffen sets out, and each applies to both the Labor government and the Liberal opposition. First, theres no sense of the government being in terminal trouble; theyre not electorally dominant but theres no sense of doom, says Tiffen. The same applies to the opposition. The opinion polls, taken as a whole, show an evenly matched contest, with support for the parties oscillating around the 50:50 mark.

The polls, mid-term, dont actually mean much. They dont even pretend to be predictors of an election due in a years time. But they carry weight with MPs, nonetheless. And, at the moment, each side of politics can assure itself that its in a competitive position. Loading Second, the scars of the past have made them more aware of the internal costs of leadership changes. In some cases, the wounds are still raw. Most members of the Albanese cabinet were in the Rudd-Gillard-Rudd governments and nurse painful memories. Albanese himself publicly shed tears announcing his decision to support Rudd over Gillard in 2012. The Liberals are in a similar condition. Bryant categorises both the parties as suffering post-traumatic stress disorder. Third is leadership style. There were personality factors  Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott were not at all consultative and they rubbed their colleagues up the wrong way, says Tiffen, and thats an understatement.

Rudd was dismissive of trade unions and contemptuous of the Labor faction leaders. They took revenge accordingly. And Abbott chose to lose the prime ministership rather than sack his famously controlling chief of staff, Peta Credlin. Loading Albanese and Dutton are much more respectful of their colleagues. The prime minister prides himself on running a proper cabinet government and observing due process, rather than the high-handed captains calls that other prime ministers have flaunted. The government resists panic and ignores the Murdoch medias constant goading. Albaneses cabinet puts a premium on thoroughness over speediness. Often, it will conduct a first pass on tricky or complex issues, meaning that the cabinet will consider a submission and then send it back for more work before a second deliberation.

This is what happened with its decision to give almost half-a-billion dollars in support of the building of a PsiQuantum computing facility in Brisbane, the subject of multiple cabinet discussions. It hasnt been perfect. The governments handling of the High Court decision to free 150 immigration detainees in the NZYQ case has been a disaster. And it continues to inflict harm on the community and political damage on the government. Immigration Minister Andrew Giles continues to bungle it, week after excruciating week. Albanese should sack him. He has plenty of capable MPs who could replace him. But the prime minster takes pride in the fact that he hasnt lost a single minister in two years. This is a remarkable record and a triumph of stability. But competent government is more important than prime ministerial pride points. Some decisions are the sole prerogative of the prime minister. Like the choice of a governor-general, for instance. Yet, even here, Albanese told his cabinet ministers that he was considering candidates for the vice-regal post and invited them to make suggestions if they so wished. Loading

Dutton may project the tough guy, strong leader image yet he, too, is respectful of his colleagues and managed firmly to defeat the Voice referendum without provoking any major internal splintering among his partys moderate MPs. A fourth factor contributes to the Canberra quiet. In neither the Labor nor Liberal parties is there an obvious alternative leader. In the land of the blind, quipped one MP, the one-eyed man is king. Is this new stability permanent? Its always contingent, says Tiffen. If you get a big, destabilising internal issue, or theres a sense of electoral doom, you could get a return to the old ways. The last thing Australia wants, or needs. Peter Hartcher is political editor.
One of the frustrating things about this job is knowing important information but sometimes being restrained from being able to tell you about it. In the age of suppression orders, defamation threats and other legal hurdles, this problem is unfortunately on the rise.

Today, I want to give you one example of the challenge the Herald faces in bringing you information in the public interest. To do this, I am going to hand you over to our chief reporter Jordan Baker, who, along with our court reporters, has been fighting a suppression order for quite some time now.

Chief reporter Jordan Baker has been fighting a suppression order in the Childrens Court. Credit: Janie Barrett

The following has been written by Jordan, and I hope you find it insightful:

On Tuesday, the perpetrator of a serious crime faced Childrens Court. Guilt was not the issue; the teen has already been sentenced. The hearing was about whether the Herald would be allowed to write about it.
Britt Johnson and her family moved to Parkdale for a temporary investment opportunity, but loved the suburb so much they ended up staying long term.

Its among a string of Bayside suburbs that recorded some of Melbournes strongest property price growth in the three months to April, data from CoreLogic has revealed, bucking the trend of Melbournes softening housing market.

Parkdale saw house price growth of 3.2 per cent in the three months to April, CoreLogic data has revealed. Credit: Simon Schluter

Houses in the inner-east and units in Melbournes inner-city suburbs have also had strong price increases, as buyers chase bridesmaid suburbs while others make a bid to escape the rental market.

The increased cost of housing in Bayside hasnt deterred buyers, with investors and owner occupiers alike flocking to suburbs like Parkdale for its beachside lifestyle and the promise of a good return on property purchases.
When we cross back out into the Lancaster Sound, the ship is pushed around by a bully of a wind. Enough people are laid low by this that in the empty lecture theatre, seats spin, as though occupied by gleeful ghosts. When things calm down, we make excursions on land or on motorised Zodiacs, often deep in fjords sculpted from truly ancient rock. At one point we pass some magnificently marbled gneiss that could be as much as 3.8 billion years old, formed so long ago that it existed before tectonic plates. This is the very beginnings of land itself. Thats what were travelling through, says the ships geologist, Alex Cowan, sounding awestruck despite or because of his insight. The weather continues in an unhelpful tone for most of our time in Nunavut, the far-north Canadian province predominantly occupied by Inuit people. Mercifully it relents for just long enough that we are able to make a landing in Arctic Bay, a community of 1000 or so people, most of whom still make their living in fishing and hunting. Tourism is a nascent business in the North West Passage, as it is for the majority of Inuit communities along its near-mythic route. When we dock in Arctic Bay, we are just the third cruise ship to do so.

A cultural show put on for us is therefore understandably a little chaotic, with people singing across each other, and an animistic dance routine by two brothers that looks absolutely exhausting. At one point during a lull, a dog runs into the community hall, and then trouble really begins. Outside, I bump into the new science teacher, who has just brought her young family to the town from Saskatchewan in the south of Canada. She intends to stay for three years. On my first day I saw a narwhal, she tells me. I almost start to point out how lucky that is, before she explains that it was being eviscerated on the beach at the time. I said to myself: well, this is definitely the right place. Back on board the ship, expedition leader Susan Adie tells me that she rarely gets complaints from people witnessing traditional Inuit hunting, or its bloody aftermath. I think that stuff can be hard for some people to digest, but Ive never had anyone say Oh they shouldnt be doing that, says Adie, who has completed 13 transits of the North West Passage. For her, the interactions with the Inuit are vital to the experience. I think it should be top of the list, she continues. Whenever anyone asks me why the North West Passage is interesting, I say its the human history, the evolution and peopling of the Arctic for the last 4000 years. Thats why you should come here. To that end, Aurora employs local guides to travel with the ship, introducing and interpreting their remarkable homeland to foreigners. Mariah Erkloo, of Pond Inlet, is taking a break from her studies in British Columbia to travel with guests, giving talks most evenings, or lectures during sea days.

One afternoon, she talks about the Inuits changing relationship with the land, highlighting a place whose name translates as Doesnt Thaw. Due to climate change, that is now a misnomer. In this case its more of a moment in history says Mariah. Lots of words relate to the land, but theyre being lost. Theres a famous saying that we have 50 different words for snow I couldnt name half of them. Maybe just a handful, but thats part of a problem, a sign that the relationship to the land is changing. Good, or at least clearer, weather awaits us in Greenland, the vast Danish territory which looks like a white wedge between Europe and the Americas on most maps. Arriving across the notorious Baffin Bay, we emerge from sea fog to see sun bathing Arctic meadows. The Ilulissat Isfjordscenter museum is modern and stylish in a wild and raw landscape. Credit: Alamy Its often said that Iceland has no ice and Greenland no green, but neither of these things are true: Greenland is a botanically rich place, with 200 species of mushroom and grasslands so vast they can sustain muskoxen, huge prehistoric ungulates which seem to be waiting impatiently for the next ice age. We make several stops at established ports along Greenlands western coast, the highlight of which is Illuisat, a working fishing port and the terminus of a vast glacier. The main differences between this town and one similar in Canada are firstly prosperity and second the number of pastries available in every cafe.

Ultimately, the difference may be distilled down to money and as we reach the face of the icy behemoth that is the Ilulissat Ice Field, we find a fine example. In this sparse land there sits an incongruous museum, the Ilulissat Isfjordscenter, modern and stylish, while so much of the world outside is raw and untamed. Inside exhibitions detail glaciology and climate science, micro to macro. A short film shows how a snowflake is born, what happens when it collides with others. If that happens a few billion times, a glacier can form. If it happens over eons, entire continents can appear. Outside, meanwhile, Greenlandic dogs, chained up and waiting for the next snows, are being fed newly dismembered pieces of raw seal. The scenes are related to the same environment, of course, but might as well be beamed in from alien planets. The writer was a guest of Explore Worldwide THE DETAILS
PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will sit in a Public meeting on May 24, 2024.

The Public meeting is scheduled for Friday at 09.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is:

Appointment Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, www.pearlfmradio.sx and www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament
Google tweaking AI Overview after search result gaffes



San Francisco, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Google on Friday said it is taking "swift action" to improve AI summaries of search results, after users mocked blunders like Barack Obama being the first Muslim US president.

Google users took to social media to lampoon erroneous "AI Overview" responses to queries such as whether people should eat stones or stare into the sun, or how many Muslim US presidents there have been.

"Many of the examples we've seen have been uncommon queries, and we've also seen examples that were doctored or that we couldn't reproduce," a Google spokesperson said in response to an AFP inquiry.

"We're taking swift action where appropriate under our content policies and using these examples to develop broader improvements to our systems, some of which have already started to roll out."

The Obama example pointed out to Google violated its policies and was taken down, according to the spokesperson.

An Overview response that adding non-toxic glue to pizza sauce was a way to stop cheese from sliding off was evidently traced to a child's Reddit post, prompting some on social media to question whether AI was gullible enough to believe everything it reads online.

The vast majority of AI Overviews provide reliable information and guardrails built into the technology are designed to prevent harmful content from appearing, according to the Silicon Valley internet titan.

Google recently rolled out AI-generated answers to searches in the United States, in one of the biggest changes to its world leading search engine in 25 years.

Google's search results began featuring an AI summary at the top of the page before the more typical unfurling of links.

The change will soon spread to other countries, Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said at the time.

The change comes as Google feels growing pressure from AI-powered search engines like Perplexity, and from the repeated rumors that OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, is building its own AI search tool.

Searches through AI chats have also appeared on Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, with users able to get information from the web without Google.

These alternatives are praised by some for their cleaner experience than the often-cluttered results of a classic query.
Japan and S. Korea announce sanctions over Russia, N. Korea arms deals



Tokyo, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Japan and South Korea on Friday announced separate sanctions packages targeting companies, vessels, or individuals allegedly involved in supplying North Korean weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine, in violation of UN resolutions.

South Korea accuses Pyongyang of sending thousands of containers of munitions to Russia, and experts have said Pyongyang's recent testing spree may be of weapons destined for use on battlefields in Ukraine.

In August, the US Treasury Department imposed similar sanctions as it said Russia was using up munitions and losing heavy equipment in Ukraine -- forcing Moscow to turn to its few allies, including Pyongyang, for support.

Japan's top government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi said Friday the country "strongly condemns" the alleged deals.

"We have cooperated with allies like the United States to freeze the assets of 11 groups and one individual involved in the Russia-North Korea military assistance meant to support Moscow's invasion of Ukraine," he told reporters.

"It violates the UN security resolutions that categorically ban the transfer with North Korea of weapons and related materials," he said.

Japan's Asahi newspaper reported that nine of the groups and the individual were in Russia while the other two organisations, based in Cyprus, allegedly helped transport weapons from North Korea.

Also on Friday, South Korea imposed its own sanctions on two Russian vessels and seven North Koreans for various activities, including allegedly trading military supplies between Moscow and Pyongyang.

The vessels were "carrying a large quantity of containers between Russia and North Korea transporting military supplies", Seoul's foreign ministry said in a statement.

Pyongyang last week denied the allegations that it is shipping weapons to Russia, saying it had "no intention to export our military technical capabilities to any country".

But the largely isolated state has recently bolstered ties with Moscow.

North Korea thanked Russia last month for using its UN Security Council veto to block the renewal of a panel of experts that monitored international sanctions on leader Kim Jong Un's regime.

Seoul said Friday that one of the newly sanctioned North Koreans was allegedly involved in discussions to facilitate arms deals with a member of Russia's Wagner group from 2022 to 2023.

Another was engaged in bringing diesel -- a critical material for Pyongyang's nuclear and missile development programmes -- from Russia into North Korea, it added.

Five additional North Koreans were involved in helping raise funds to support Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes by earning foreign currency as IT workers while residing "illegally in Vladivostok".

Friday's announcements come just days before the leaders of South Korea, Japan and China meet in Seoul for their first trilateral summit in nearly five years.
Russia 'bogged down' in battle for border town, Ukraine says



Kyiv, Ukraine, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Russian forces have become "bogged down" trying to capture the northeastern border town of Vovchansk but fighting on the eastern front remains intense, Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrsky said Friday.

Kyiv has been battling a Russian land assault on its northeastern Kharkiv region since May 10, when thousands of troops stormed the border, making their biggest territorial advances in 18 months.

After initial success, "the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units," Syrsky said, but added that fighting near the eastern cities of Chasiv Yar, Pokrovsk and Kurakhove was "intense".

Over 11,000 people have been evacuated from the Kharkiv region since Russia began its new offensive two weeks ago, according to local governor Oleg Synegubov.

Syrsky's comments came as state-owned train operator Ukrainian Railways reported a flurry of strikes on Kharkiv region's railway system, damaging tracks, train carriages and buildings.

"The enemy continues to make deliberate attempts to stop the railway in Kharkiv region," Ukrainian Railways said on Telegram.

"At night, it struck civilian railway infrastructure again. The shelling damaged tracks, buildings, idle freight carriages and an electric train carriage."

The company shared photos showing smoke rising from a wrecked carriage, twisted metal and debris beside tracks and a depot with some blown-out windows.

Long-distance and suburban trains were running as scheduled, the state railway monopoly said, despite repeated Russian strikes on the network, which is vital for both civilians and the military.

Both sides have also accused each other of civilian deaths.

Strikes on the city of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest, killed at least seven people on Thursday, local authorities said.

Separately, Ukraine fired missiles overnight on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula, killing two "chance passers-by", the Russian-installed head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, said.
Australian court says ex-US Marine pilot 'eligible' for extradition



Sydney, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



An ex-US Marine pilot accused of illegally training China's military is "eligible" for surrender to the United States, an Australian magistrate ruled on Friday.

Daniel Edmund Duggan was arrested in Australia in October 2022 at the request of the US government, which accuses him of breaking arms control laws.

It alleges he illegally trained Chinese military pilots between 2010 and 2012, after he left the military. Duggan has denied the charges.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss ruled that Duggan is eligible for extradition to the United States, Australian media including public broadcaster ABC said.

Reiss ordered the 55-year-old Duggan to remain in prison.

Australia's attorney general must still decide whether Duggan should be surrendered to the United States, the ABC said.

A highly regarded jet pilot, Duggan spent 12 years in the US Marine Corps, reaching the rank of Major and working as a tactical flight instructor.

The father of six moved to Australia in 2002 after leaving the Marines, gaining citizenship and working in an adventure flight company called Top Gun Tasmania.
China warns of Taiwan 'war' as military drills encircle island



Beijing, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



China warned on Friday of war over Taiwan and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved, as Chinese forces conducted military drills around the self-ruled island.

Warships and fighter jets encircled Taiwan on the second day of exercises that Beijing said were a test of its ability to seize the island, days after its new president was sworn in.

China's military kicked off the two-day war games on Thursday morning, surrounding democratic Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft as it vowed the blood of "independence forces" on the island would flow.

The exercises were launched three days after Lai Ching-te took office and made an inauguration speech that China denounced as a "confession of independence".

Beijing's defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian said on Friday that Lai "has seriously challenged the one-China principle... pushing our compatriots in Taiwan into a perilous situation of war and danger".

"Every time 'Taiwan independence' provokes us, we will push our countermeasures one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved," he said.

The drills are part of an escalating campaign of intimidation by China in which it has carried out a series of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan in recent years.

They are testing the "capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories", Li Xi, spokesman for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command, said on Friday.

Fighter jets loaded with live ammunition scrambled towards targets and bombers formed formations to combine with warships to simulate "strikes against important targets", state broadcaster CCTV reported.

China, which split with Taiwan at the end of a civil war 75 years ago, regards the island as a renegade province with which it must eventually be reunified.

The dispute has long made the Taiwan Strait one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints, and this week's events have stoked fears that China may use military force to bring the island under mainland rule.

The United States, Taiwan's strongest ally and military backer, "strongly" urged China on Thursday to act with restraint. The United Nations called for all sides to avoid escalation.



- 'Common roots' -



As the drills -- Codenamed "Joint Sword-2024A" -- got under way, China said they would serve as "strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces".

Footage published by China's military showed soldiers streaming out of a building to battle stations and jets taking off to a rousing martial tune.

CCTV reported that Chinese sailors had called out to their Taiwanese counterparts at sea, warning them against "resisting reunification by force".

An animated graphic published by the Chinese military showed missiles raining down on key targets on the island, declaring it would "cut off the blood vessels for Taiwan independence!"

At a tourist park on Pingtan -- a Chinese island situated in the Taiwan Strait -- visitors clambered over the rocky landscape to gaze out at the misty horizon as pop music blared from a loudspeaker at nearby tea stalls.

Others posed for pictures in front of a sign proclaiming "the closest distance between the motherland and Taiwan island", 68 nautical miles (126 kilometres) away.

"We share common roots," Chen Yan, a 60-year-old woman from Wuhan, told AFP about Taiwan.

"So I think there will definitely be unification," she added.



- 'Heads broken' -



China has repeatedly branded Lai a "dangerous separatist" who would bring "war and decline" to the island.

In a speech on Thursday, Lai said he would "stand on the front line" to defend Taiwan, without directly referring to the drills.

Beijing was incensed by his inauguration speech on Monday, in which he hailed a "glorious" era for Taiwan's democracy.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin delivered a warning on Thursday that included language more commonly used by China's propaganda outlets.

"Taiwan independence forces will be left with their heads broken and blood flowing after colliding against the great... trend of China achieving complete unification," Wang told reporters.

Beijing's Xinhua news agency and ruling party organ the People's Daily ran editorials hailing the drills on Friday, while slamming Lai's "treacherous behaviour" and promising a "severe blow".

The drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and to the north, south and east of the island, as well as areas around the Taipei-administered islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

Beijing has said the drills will last until Friday but analysts say it could choose to extend the war games or launch missiles near Taiwan, as it did after a visit to the island by then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022.

Taipei's defence ministry said the Chinese military had gotten within 24 nautical miles of Taiwan's main island.

Its coast guard reported on Friday that four Chinese vessels entered the "restricted waters" of two Taiwanese islands as two other vessels nearby provided support.
Hong Kong spy case closed against UK ex-marine



London, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



A UK judge on Friday said two men accused of assisting Hong Kong's intelligence service would face a five-week trial next year, after the death of a co-defendant.

The third defendant -- Matthew Trickett, 37, an immigration enforcement officer and private investigator who had previously been a member of the Royal Marines -- was found dead in a park in Maidenhead, west of London, on Sunday.

At a hearing at London's Old Bailey court, prosecutor Alistair Richardson said the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) had notified the court that the case against Trickett would be formally "discontinued".

"As has widely been reported, Matthew Trickett died on May 19 this year. The cause of his death is currently given as unexplained," Richardson said.

Co-defendants in the case Chi (Peter) Leung Wai, 38, and Chung Biu Yuen, 63, appeared at the same hearing but spoke only to confirm their names.

Judge Jeremy Baker adjourned their cases until October 25 and provisionally fixed a five week-trial to start on February 10, 2025 at Kingston Crown Court in southwest London.

Trickett had previously been employed by the UK Border Force at Heathrow Airport, before joining Home Office Immigration Enforcement on February 21, 2024.

He was also the director of MTR Consultancy, a security firm formed in April 2021.

All three defendants had been charged with assisting a foreign intelligence service and with foreign interference, in violation of the 2023 National Security Act.

The act came into force in December and is designed to bolster UK national security against "hostile activity" targeting the country's democratic institutions, economy and values.

China's foreign affairs commissioner in its territory of Hong Kong has "strongly condemned" Britain for "cooking up charges" and accused it of a "vicious intention to interfere" in Hong Kong's affairs.

The office warned that Britain would receive "China's firm and strong retaliation".

The allegations came after two men, one of whom works in the UK parliament, were last month charged with spying for China. They are due to be tried next year.
NATO 'solidarity' with Estonia after border incident with Russia



Brussels, Belgium, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



NATO "stands in solidarity" with member country Estonia following a border incident with Russia on the Narva River separating the two nations, alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said Friday.

"NATO stands in solidarity with our ally Estonia against any threat to their sovereignty," Stoltenberg said on the social media platform X after speaking with Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas.

Russian border guards on Thursday staged a pre-dawn operation removing buoys from the Narva River marking the border and used by boats to avoid accidentally straying into foreign waters.

Estonia says that, since Russia launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, tensions have risen over that border area, with Moscow contesting the placement of the floating markers.

Kallas has said the buoys' removal appeared to be part of a "broader pattern" by Moscow to use "tools related to the border to create fear and anxiety".

The European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell earlier Friday called Russia's removal of the buoys "unacceptable".

rmb/imm
Swiss return three confiscated artefacts to Iraq



Geneva, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Switzerland's foreign minister on Friday returned to her Iraqi counterpart three important Mesopotamian objects seized during a criminal procedure, the Swiss government said.

During a ceremony at the culture ministry in Bern, Elisabeth Baume-Schneider handed over a partial statue and two Mesopotamian reliefs to Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.

The three works, which are 1,700 to 2,800 years old, are "of great significance" to Iraq, the ministry said in a statement.

They were confiscated during a criminal procedure in the Geneva canton last year, it said.

The main person accused in that case was handed a prison sentence for document forgery and for violating the Cultural Property Transfer Act, which bans the transfer of stolen or looted cultural goods, the ministry said.

An additional 43 cultural items had been confiscated by Swiss authorities in the case, it added.

The three objects restituted Friday were discovered and documented during official excavations in Iraq in 1857, 1959 and 1976. They all originated in Mesopotamia, today's Iraq.

"They were subsequently removed from Iraq at an unknown date and possibly illegally," the ministry said.

They include two large Assyrian reliefs from the 8th century BC that were found at the major archaeological site Nimrud-Kalhu.

There was also the fragment of a royal bust, wearing a pleated tunic and a royal mantle adorned with pendants, from the ancient city of Hatra in the second to third centuries AD.

Cultural items from Mesopotamia, known as the cradle of civilisation, are among the most endangered categories of Iraqi cultural goods, the Swiss culture ministry said.

They are particularly affected by illegal excavations, smuggling and illegal trading, leading UNESCO to add three sites in Iraq to its list of World Heritage in Danger, including the Hatra site.

Switzerland and Iraq are parties to a UNESCO convention aimed at protecting cultural heritage by banning and preventing illegal imports, exports and transfers of cultural property.

Friday's restitution was the fifth from Switzerland to Iraq since 2005 and "by far the most significant", the ministry said.

While the objects were officially returned to Iraq on Friday, the ministry said they would remain in Switzerland for now to feature in an exceptional exhibit at the ministry through June 7.
Blinken to visit Moldova in new Western support



Washington, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit Moldova next week, the State Department announced Friday, in a new Western gesture of support to the former Soviet republic as tensions rise with Russia.

The top US diplomat will hold talks in Moldova on Wednesday on his way to a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Prague that will pave the way for the alliance's 75th anniversary in Washington in July.

Blinken last visited Moldova in 2022, weeks after Russia's invasion of neighboring Ukraine.

The invasion raised fears on the next moves by Moscow, which stations some 1,500 troops in Moldova's pro-Russia breakaway region of Transnistria.

While Moldova has stayed out of direct conflict, tensions have escalated between the government in the capital Chisinau and the separatists, and Russia has been angered by the country's embrace of a Western path.

Earlier this week the European Union signed a security and defense pact with Moldova to help the country defend against Russian threats, including in cyber security.

Blinken will salute "Moldova's progress and its path toward European integration," and highlight "the threat posed by the Russian interference in its internal processes," Jim O'Brien, the top US diplomat for Europe, told reporters.

He said that while the United States did not see an imminent military threat from Transnistria, it was concerned about "ongoing Russian influence operations," in part targeting pro-European President Maia Sandu as she stands for reelection.

O'Brien hailed Sandu's "success in delivering better results for Moldova and integrating further to Europe."

"Obviously the people of Moldova will have a chance to decide. We want them to decide in a free and fair environment with as little interference or disinformation as possible," O'Brien said.

EU members are debating whether to start accession talks next month, which would lead to years of negotiations in which Moldova would be asked to undertake economic and governance reforms.

Blinken's trip comes after Georgia, another former Soviet republic that had sought a Western path, passed controversial legislation to counter "foreign influence," triggering mass protests by Georgians who fear a return to Moscow's orbit.

Blinken said Thursday that the United States would impose visa restrictions and review relations with Georgia in response.
CORRECTED: Swiss return three confiscated artefacts to Iraq



Geneva, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Switzerland on Friday returned to Iraq three important Mesopotamian objects seized during a criminal procedure, Bern said.

During a ceremony at the culture ministry in Bern, Swiss Interior Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider handed over a partial statue and two Mesopotamian reliefs to Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.

The three works, which are 1,700 to 2,800 years old, are "of great significance" to Iraq, the ministry said in a statement.

They were confiscated during a criminal procedure in the Geneva canton last year, it said.

The main person accused in that case was handed a prison sentence for document forgery and for violating the Cultural Property Transfer Act, which bans the transfer of stolen or looted cultural goods, the ministry said.

An additional 43 cultural items had been confiscated by Swiss authorities in the case, it added.

The three objects returned Friday were discovered and documented during official excavations in Iraq in 1846/47, 1959 and 1976. They all originated in Mesopotamia, today's Iraq.

"They were subsequently removed from Iraq at an unknown date and possibly illegally," the ministry said.

They include two large Assyrian reliefs from the 8th century BC that were found at the major archaeological site Nimrud-Kalhu.

There was also the fragment of a royal bust, wearing a pleated tunic and a royal mantle adorned with pendants, from the ancient city of Hatra in the second to third centuries AD.

Cultural items from Mesopotamia, known as the cradle of civilisation, are among the most endangered categories of Iraqi cultural goods, the Swiss culture ministry said.

They are particularly affected by illegal excavations, smuggling and illegal trading, leading UNESCO to add three sites in Iraq to its list of World Heritage in Danger, including the Hatra site.

Switzerland and Iraq are parties to a UNESCO convention aimed at protecting cultural heritage by banning and preventing illegal imports, exports and transfers of cultural property.

Friday's restitution was the fifth from Switzerland to Iraq since 2005 and "by far the most significant", the ministry said.

While the objects were officially returned to Iraq on Friday, the ministry said they would remain in Switzerland for now to feature in an exceptional exhibit at the ministry through June 7.
A U.S. Army private killed in action during World War II has come home to Buffalo.

Pfc. Bartholomew C. Loschiavo  age 24 when he was hit by an artillery shell during a battle against German troops near Grevenmacher, Luxembourg  was buried in the European country as an unknown soldier, leaving family members to wonder for decades if he might still be alive.

The reason was, he was reported missing in action in 1944, said his great-nephew, David Loschiavo, of West Seneca.

Pfc. Loschiavo was recently identified through DNA and other means. His body was returned to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport on Thursday evening with full military honors, befitting a soldier killed in action.

He will be buried next weekend in Western New York, following an 80-year saga that included his sacrifice, the kindness of citizens he helped liberate from the Nazis and loved ones determined to learn more about his fate after the Army first believed Loschiavo either was captured or died.

Born May 27, 1920, Loschiavo was the second youngest of 11 children of Sicilian immigrants Agostino Loschiavo and the former Concetta Caito. He grew up in Dante Place, a tenement in the Buffalo Canal District, where the Marine Drive apartments now stand.

Everyone in the family  which now numbers more than 200 nieces, nephews and their children and grandchildren  has heard the story of Uncle Bart, his great-nephew said.

David Loschiavos father, Augustine, was 6 when his uncle died.

He remembers Uncle Bart would pick him up and walk him around town anytime he went over to their house, David Loschiavo said.

He said many in the family wouldnt accept that Uncle Bart had died because one of his buddies, a fellow soldier who fought in the same battle, saw him get struck by a shell and crawl to the side of a road near a hill. Enemy fire was so heavy, his unit had to move out quickly. When they returned, they could not find him.

His body was found by Grevenmacher residents, who buried him at a local cemetery in an unmarked grave.

The U.S. military learned about his remains after the war, and transferred them to the Luxembourg American Cemetery, still without knowing his identity.

Back in Western New York, loved ones continued to wonder about his whereabouts. When they went out of town, Barts sisters called and wrote to every Bartholomew Loschiavo they could find in the telephone book, hoping they would find their brother, David Loschiavo said. Barts brother once jumped in a car in the 1950s and drove to California with a brother-in-law because they had a tip Bart was there.

This whole generation, I think they all went to their graves thinking he was probably still alive, the great-nephew said.

Augustine Loschiavo started trying to find out what happened to his uncle in 1996, knowing there could be unmarked graves where American soldiers were buried. He didnt get far.

Then, in 2020, his son, Donald  Davids brother  started searching online and discovered how to get records on Bart.

He learned his great-uncle entered the military Sept. 16, 1940, and served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 329th Infantry Regiment, 83rd Infantry Division, in the European Theater. He found out about the battle where he was injured. He read reports that said an American soldier had been buried in a local cemetery and transferred after the war to the Luxembourg American Cemetery.

Donald Loschiavo contacted the U.S. Department of Defense, which exhumed the soldiers body, flew it to the United States and asked the Loschiavo family to provide DNA samples.

Military investigators also checked dental records and X-rays before positively identifying Bart. They notified the family in April that they confirmed a match.

A procession from the airport to Lakeside Memorial West Seneca Chapel on Thursday evening included Erie County sheriffs deputies and Patriot Guard members.

Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 10 to 11:30 a.m. June 1, after which Pfc. Loschiavo, who traveled to Europe and back, will be buried with his parents at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Cheektowaga.
NATO members bordering Russia to build 'drone wall'



Vilnius, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Lithuania said Friday that the Baltic state and five other NATO members neighbouring Russia had agreed to build a "drone wall" to defend their borders from "provocations".

The plan to use unmanned aerial vehicles for protection was agreed because of security concerns in the region amid Russia's war in Ukraine.

Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite announced the plan after talks with her counterparts from fellow Baltic states Estonia and Latvia, as well as Finland, Norway and Poland.

"This is a completely new thing, a drone wall stretching from Norway to Poland, and the goal is to use drones and other technologies to protect our borders," she told the BNS news agency.

"Not only with physical infrastructure, surveillance systems, but also with drones and other technologies, which would allow us to protect against provocations from unfriendly countries and to prevent smuggling," she said.

In addition to deploying drones to monitor the border, the countries would also use anti-drone systems to stop enemy UAVs.

Bilotaite did not give a time frame for the plan.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe, the commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), yesterday presided over the pass-out parade of 1,196 military recruits who completed an intensive eight-month training program at the Recruits Training Depot, Lookout Masuku Barracks, in Bulawayo.The cohort of recruits comprised 893 males and 303 females. Among the top three recruits, the second runner-up was Echo Nyakuseredza, while Pride Mambara secured the first runner-up position, and Rodney Musundire was honored as the best recruit.In his address, Lt Gen Sanyatwe emphasized the importance of discipline within the ZNA, highlighting that the army is a professional organization that does not tolerate indiscipline. He urged the recruits to uphold core values such as loyalty, patriotism, and sacrifice, essential for building a strong and formidable force.Lt Gen Sanyatwe cautioned against engaging in misconduct, stating that those found on the wrong side of the law would face severe consequences as outlined in the Defence Act Chapter 11 of 2002 and related statutory instruments.He also warned the recruits about the dangers of social media misinformation and encouraged them to seek guidance from their superiors when confronted with such challenges.Acknowledging the support of traditional leaders in the recruitment process, Lt Gen Sanyatwe expressed gratitude for their assistance in identifying suitable candidates.Furthermore, he emphasized the ZNA's commitment to gender mainstreaming, highlighting the graduation of 303 female recruits as a testament to the army's dedication to gender equality. Lt Gen Sanyatwe affirmed the ZNA's ongoing efforts to recruit and train female candidates, recognizing their dedication and competence in serving the nation.




Spoilers ahead!





Once again, its 9-1-1 time, and here comes a double review in which Step Nine and Ashes, Ashes, the eighth and ninth episodes of this seventh season, are discussed.





Last week, we learned more about Bobbys (Peter Krause) past and then got some hints about his future. The episode starts with Amir (Malcolm Jamal-Warner), the nurse from 7x07, following Bobby to one AA meeting and standing up to tell everyone about the Minnesota apartment fire that changed his life. Our favorite Nash connects the dots and realizes that Amir is a survivor of the fire he caused. Impacted by this discovery, Bobby decides its time to make amends with Amir. After all, there are Twelve Steps at the core of the Alcoholics Anonymous program, and Step Nine is the one that calls into action and tells [someone] to take responsibility for the behavior that accompanied their addiction.





Bobbys need for redemption takes him to Jacumba, where Amir is working as a traveling nurse. Amid cartel members, gunshot wounds (and mental ones as well), and a desert landscape, Bobby and Amir must work together to survive. Meanwhile, we get a glimpse of Bobbys childhood and learn about how his fathers alcoholism dismantled his family. While his mother Ann (Ellen Wroe) and his brother Charlie (Parker Queenan) left the house, young Bobby (Mark Sodukh) stayed, hopeful to somehow save his father  but Tim Nash (John Brotherton) ends up dying drunk in a tragic way.





While Peter Krause and Malcolm Jamal-Warner are two beasts performing with each other and their adventure had some strong moments (usually the ones in which they argued or discussed something), I was not a huge fan of Step Nine. But hey, May (Corinne Massiah) came back for a cameo, and I was really happy to see her again  hopefully, she can return next season. And of course, the flashbacks were my favorite part of this episode; they were so poignant, touching, and tragic, and I had all kinds of feelings watching them (and when it comes to making me feel stuff, 9-1-1 is unbeatable). Another thing that worked for me is that Amir doesnt forgive Bobby in the end. Bobby saved his life, but hes a stranger to Amir  a stranger who, by the way, is living a very good life surrounded by the best people after everything that happened in Minnesota. And Bobby knows this and feels guilty as hell for being happy after all, so he ends the episode in this very dark place





"Ashes, Ashes"  9-1-1, Pictured: The 9-1-1 Cast . Photo: ABC . All Rights Reserved





And tonights episode deals with dark places. And ghosts. And some shocking scenes, heartbreaking moments, and gut-wrenching cliffhangers. This season has been all about what happened in the past coming back to haunt our firefighters. Hen (Aisha Hinds), for instance, crashed the ambulance into the car of a cello player years ago. Now, this comes back to haunt her once more, along with some moments she had to break protocol in her job because Councilwoman Olivia Ortiz (Veronica Falcon, brilliant as this dangerous and hateful woman) wants revenge for what happened to her son earlier this season. Olivia decides to use her influence to prevent Hen and Karen (Tracie Thoms) from officially adopting Mara (Askyler Bell), and this is so cruel because Mara is finally smiling, playing with Denny (Declan Pratt) and other kids, and talking, shes finally happy  after so much suffering, with the Wilsons she found a family. The scene in which Mara is taken from her new family was brutal, I cried angrily because that was so wrong. Olivia Ortiz, you reap what you sow, what goes around comes around, or as we say where I live, o que e seu ta guardado. Hen and Karen will find a way to bring Mara back, I trust this. And again, I need to praise Aisha, Tracie, Declan, and Askyler  wonderful acting that broke my heart into pieces.





Eddie (Ryan Guzman) is also dealing with a ghost, now that Kim (Devin Kelley) is starting to be part of his life. After coming to the station one night to see Eddie, Kim meets Buck (Oliver Stark) instead. Buck, of course, goes immediately to Eddies and asks him about whats going on. Eddie doesnt seem to know. Buck is worried, and Eddie is worried as well But he guarantees to him that he didnt kiss Kim, they never had sex or anything like that, shes just a friend.





After Buck gives him some advice, Eddie tells Kim the truth about her being essentially a doppelganger of his deceased wife, showing some pictures of Shannon to Kim, which seems to make her upset/scared Until she comes back later dressed just like Shannon with different hair and different makeup, offering Eddie a chance to tell Shannon everything he always wanted to say but never got the chance to. Devin is strong as always as this weird, fascinating woman, but Ryan gets the chance to shine here with Eddie tearing himself apart. While Kim and Eddie share a hug, Christopher (Gavin McHugh) and Marisol (Edy Ganem) enter the scene, with Chris recognizing his mom... Guys, I was so tense the entire scene waiting for this to happen, then it happened. Now what? Itll be a long week. But I like the way they are addressing Eddie's relationship with Shannon  while a part of me still thinks that at the end of this, he'll be ready to move on, he's also idealizing a lot of what happened, so who knows?





"Ashes, Ashes"  9-1-1, Pictured: AISHA HINDS as Hen, KENNETH CHOI as Chimney, OLIVER STARK as Buck, ANIRUDH PISHARODY as Ravi, PETER KRAUSE as Bobby . Photo: ABC . All Rights Reserved





But this wasnt the biggest cliffhanger. After receiving a medal of honor, Bobbys guilt deepens, and he decides to retire and leave the 118. Athena (Angela Bassett) is, of course, not satisfied with this. Shes rightfully worried about her husband and decides to ask for Amirs help. But when the nurse goes to the Grant-Nash house and learns more about Bobbys life and new family, he decides this will be too much for him. Bobby comes home right in time to see Amir leaving, and he and Athena have a huge argument. Later, Bobby dreams of his father, whos been haunting him for decades at this point. When he wakes up, his house is on fire, ashes everywhere. Bobby saves Athena, unconscious on the floor of their bedroom, and starts compressions until the paramedics arrive. When she starts to breathe normally again, he knows somethings wrong. He falls to the ground. His heart stopped. End of the episode.





So much of this episode was about Bobby saying goodbye to the 118. We had this beautiful montage to Matt Malteses I Hear The Day Has Come  Bobby talking to each of his coworkers, who are also his children in a way, who are also part of his family, while we see him watching the 118 in action, proud of who they are, thinking about how far theyve come. Theres a bit with Ravi (Anirudh Pisharody) that made me so emotional  a beautiful, touching, and fast scene. And then the last supper, prepared by Buck. And then Bobby and Buck have that conversation. For Bobby, it's a moment of closure, but Buck is unaware of everything happening in his captains life. And I can't stop thinking about this scene between them as well, because it has this full-circle feeling in it that's very powerful.





Im usually very positive that everyone will make it out alive in the end when it comes to this show, but again, so much of this episode was about Bobby saying goodbye. Im scared  I cant imagine the 118 without Bobby. To be fair, I cant imagine 9-1-1 without any of the main characters; I can only think of season 5 when it comes to what would this show be if one of them, or some of them, left? We have one more episode, and then a hiatus until season 8, so who knows? But Im scared. And thrilled. And excited, because this episode was so good, so intense, so beautiful yet tragic The wait for May 30th is gonna last forever.





Now let me know your thoughts and theories. What do you think about Step Nine and Ashes, Ashes? Feel free to leave a comment with your impressions, and thanks for reading!
News / National

by Staff reporter

To counteract the challenges posed by frequent electricity outages, Mpilo Central Hospital and the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) have each been equipped with a 350-kilowatt solar power system, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply.The installation of these solar systems, carried out in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the government, aims to minimize disruptions to clinical services.UBH's acting clinical director, Trust Mushawarima, expressed appreciation for the initiative during a tour, highlighting its significance in sustaining uninterrupted operations of medical equipment. He emphasized the positive impact on service delivery, noting that the hospitals' electricity bills would decrease over time due to their ability to contribute excess power to the national grid.The tour also revealed that 19 local council clinics are now powered by solar energy, underscoring the growing trend towards renewable energy solutions. UNDP resident representative Ayodele Odusola praised the partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, emphasizing Zimbabwe's potential to lead in sustainable energy practices, particularly given its abundance of lithium resources.In a separate development, Joel Charangwa, Mpilo's director of operations, announced the nearing completion of one of the largest waste management plants at the hospital. This facility is expected to revolutionize waste management not only within Bulawayo but also across the broader region, with the capacity to incinerate waste generated beyond the city's borders. Charangwa emphasized the project's significance in addressing waste management challenges nationwide.
If there is not a significant and immediate rebound, the figures will put Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunts claims that the economy is on the right track heading into the election in doubt. GDP had grown in the first quarter by a strong 0.6% after the end-of-2023 recession, offering hope that the sluggish economy was finally getting out of first gear. However, a sharp retail slowdown may put the economy back into stagnation or decline.
The salience of the plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda  primarily a signal to the Right that he is tough on asylum seekers  has trumped the countrys real priorities: the cost-of-living crisis, the NHS, housing. The fear that he will be seen as soft on crime, for example, has meant sensible plans for cutting short sentences have been left to languish. The result? Prisons are now so full that police have been asked not to arrest so many criminals.
As much as its meant to be a stripping back, soon those cameras, the constant murmuring, the grinding sounds, the need to be cool all the time gets in the way of performances. It imposes too much on them rather than liberating them.
It may be a small city when you compare its size to its reputation, but there are whole worlds to explore within this Northern Californian gem. Immerse yourself within the bohemian vibe of Haight-Ashbury  once home to Janis Joplin and a nucleus of the hippie movement of the 1960s, not forgetting to check out The Castro nearby, an important place in American LGBTQ+ history.
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Commuters are being warned that trains running from Victoria will likely to take at least 60 minutes longer than usual and you may need to change trains to reach your destination.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The sentencing of union leader and activist Obert Masaraure has been postponed by Harare Regional magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka until Friday.In his plea for leniency, Masaraure's legal representative, Tapiwa Muchineripi, emphasized that Masaraure is a first-time offender and should be given the opportunity to reform."We urge the court to consider a sentence that does not exceed a fine, minimal imprisonment, or community service," Muchineripi stated.The charges against Masaraure stem from his social media posts on the union's X handle, where he advocated for the release of activist Robson Chere. Chere was arrested in connection with the death of Artuz member Roy Issa in 2016. Issa reportedly fell to his death from the seventh floor of a Harare hotel.While an initial inquiry into Issa's death found no evidence of foul play, the police reopened the case and charged Masaraure and Chere with murder.
Dame Margaret said the committee has published the letter in an effort to contribute to a vital public conversation in the lead-up to the General Election, as it is not clear if members of the public fully understand how these threats will manifest and what this means for the UK, its democracy and them as individuals.
She withdrew her remarks soon after and apologised for any anguish caused but has been under investigation ever since. Sir Keir told Sky News that Labours final candidate selection date of June 4 would be the deadline for whether Ms Abbott would be readmitted to the party.
But it is entirely possible to say what I have just said and also say the next bit  which sadly some refuse to say  that what is happening in Palestine, what is happening in Gaza, is a humanitarian catastrophe.
She joked: Of course it has its frustrations, it particularly has its frustrations when youre in government and people dont vote on your own side for your legislation  three times  but there we are, we get over these things, we carry on, come back, but it is a really important job and the key to it is to represent constituents.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A church leader in Mbare finds himself in legal trouble after purportedly impersonating a Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) official in a bid to acquire land intended for use as an extension to his church's allocated space in the densely populated suburb.Kudzai Ngoni Nyamasoka (29), alleged to have falsely associated himself with the Office of the President and Cabinet and claimed membership in the ruling Zanu-PF party, was granted bail of US$200 and instructed to appear at Mbare Magistrate Court on June 18 this year.Prosecutor Thomas Chanakira informed the court yesterday that Nyamasoka, serving as a pastor at Faith Ministries International in Mbare, Harare, faces charges of fraud and forgery related to a case where the City of Harare is the complainant.According to Chanakira, the dispute arose in January this year when Faith Ministries International sought to acquire a parcel of land adjacent to its church premises, which had been temporarily leased to True Believers International Ministries. The land, previously utilized for parking by Faith Ministries, had been leased to True Believers.Subsequently, Faith Ministries attempted to secure the same land as an extension to their church property but was unsuccessful in their application.Allegedly, in response to this denial, Nyamasoka, representing Faith Ministries International, initiated actions to intimidate members of the rival church. He purportedly engaged individuals posing as representatives of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the President's Department, and the Zanu-PF youth league to harass congregants of the other church.In April 2024, Nyamasoka allegedly contacted council officials, impersonating a Zacc officer, and urged them to revoke the land allocation to the rival church. Moreover, he is accused of fabricating a fraudulent letter with a computer-generated letterhead, warning the district officer to halt the land allocation process due to ongoing Zacc investigations.Following a report to the police, Nyamasoka was arrested.
For nearly two decades, Dance St. Louis has transformed our region into a dance mecca for Memorial Day Weekend by way of Spring to Dance. Presented by the Whitaker Foundation, the two-day festival (May 24-25) gives local audiences an opportunity to bear witness to emerging and established companies who demonstrate the breadth and scope of the art form.

Among the 12 companies who will grace the stage for Spring to Dance 2024 is South Chicago Dance Theatre. Kia Smith  the companys founder, executive artistic director and resident choreographer  is thrilled that her company was chosen this year to make their Spring to Dance debut on Friday (May 24) at the Touhill.

Tsai Hsi Hung

This season I commissioned a new work by Tsai Hsi Hung  When you look at the choreography its almost like the dancers are dancing in fast forward. Its that fast. People can expect a lot of energy from this piece  and probably something they have never seen before in terms of style.  SCDT Founder Kia Smith

To be honest, this is a famous festival within the dance world, Smith said. Its an honor that we get to be in the room for something like this. There are some really incredible companies on that program  and so the fact that we get to be a part of it as a new dance company is very exciting.

At just seven years old, South Chicago Dance Theatre has made a name for itself within the realm of dance. The company has danced in South America  and they have collaborated with the famed Chicago Opera Theater.

South Chicago Dance Theatre is the manifestation of Smiths childhood dream. She saw a ballet performance on PBS at five-years-old and knew from that moment that she wanted to have her own dance company.

I gathered up my teddy bears, put them on the couch and started teaching what I learned on TV, Smith said. Thats where it started  and I never looked back. I just kind of found my own unique way to be in this field. Ive always had an excitement about dance.

Her resolve was further strengthened when she became involved in a community theater organization in elementary school that used the arts to foster unity. Much like St. Louis, Chicago has a legacy of segregation and fragmentation. But as her group wrote, produced and performed their own plays, the South Side, North Side and West Side came together. All races, backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses came together in the name of art.

It was really a transformative experience for me because I had never been around so many different people, I wanted to unite people and I felt that I could actually do it through the arts. That experience made me know that what I want to do is marry these two things  bringing different kinds of people together in community, and also making art together.

Spring to Dance reflects the same spirit of community and unity, but in the name of dance. It is one of only a few festivals of its kind in the United States, Smith said. And in her opinion, the opportunity presented through Spring to Dance cannot be overstated. I think what Michael [Uthoff] does with Spring to Dance is really incredible, Smith said. There just arent many festivals that actually pay companies to come  and have an open application process. Dance St. Louis has programmed a diversity of artists over the years. Ive been following Spring to Dance for a long time.

She cant wait to show St. Louis what SCDT is made of as part of the Spring to Dance roster.

Its going to be wild, Smith said. This season I commissioned a new work by Tsai Hsi Hung, shes from Taiwan -and shes based in Taiwan and New York and her work is like fire. Ive honestly never seen anything like it anywhere  and I watch a lot of dance. When you look at the choreography its almost like the dancers are dancing in fast forward. Its that fast. People can expect a lot of energy from this piece  and probably something they have never seen before in terms of style.

Smith urges prospective audiences to take advantage of the experience made available through Dance St. Louis.

Spring to Dance is one of the countrys most prominent dance festivals and highlights a diversity of really exciting, cutting edge dance companies, Smith said. There is literally something for everyone.

Smith even goes so far as to declare Spring to Dance a cultural gem.

You definitely shouldnt miss out on it if you are local  and it is worth the drive into the city if you are not, Smith said. I think people underestimate the transformative power of the arts, and how good you feel after watching a performance. Especially something like Spring to Dance  and it only happens once a year.

Dance St. Louis will present Spring to Dance 2024, sponsored by the Whitaker Foundation, on May 24- 25 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the campus of UMSL. Doors open each night at 5:30 p.m. For tickets and/or additional information, visit www.dancestlouis.org.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A senior leader of the Zimbabwe African People's Union (Zapu) has criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration, alleging that it perpetuates a culture of vindictiveness and holds grudges against opponents, reminiscent of the late Robert Mugabe's era.A recent example of this alleged vindictiveness occurred when Mnangagwa reportedly disregarded calls to confer heroine status on former Bulawayo provincial affairs minister Eunice Sandi Moyo following her passing. Sandi Moyo, aged 78, passed away at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo after battling hypertension.Despite her contributions to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, Sandi Moyo was denied the recognition accorded to other Zanu-PF figures. This decision has drawn criticism from Zapu, with the party asserting that Sandi Moyo's involvement in the struggle should not be overlooked due to political differences.Speaking at Sandi Moyo's memorial service in Bulawayo, Zapu's secretary-general lamented the lack of recognition for individuals like Sandi Moyo, who played pivotal roles in the country's history. He emphasized the need to honor the contributions of nationalist figures, irrespective of their political affiliations.The Zapu representative highlighted the struggles faced by women like Sandi Moyo, drawing parallels with other overlooked female revolutionaries. He questioned the criteria used by the government to confer hero status, particularly in light of controversial decisions regarding certain individuals.Furthermore, the Zapu leader criticized former party members who have aligned themselves with Zanu-PF, urging them to speak out against injustices. He called for unity within Zapu and emphasized the importance of reclaiming the party's legacy.Meanwhile, government officials and Zanu-PF members expressed condolences for Sandi Moyo's passing, acknowledging her contributions to the nation. However, some observers noted the political controversies that marked Sandi Moyo's career, including her dismissal from Zanu-PF and subsequent involvement with the National Patriotic Front.Sandi Moyo's death has reignited discussions about forgiveness and reconciliation in Zimbabwe, with calls for political leaders to prioritize national unity over personal grievances.
ST. PETERS  About 12,000 United States flags fill nearly all of the available space in a Ford Ranger pickup.

They not only take up the entire bed, but they also must be crammed into every inch of the passenger space.

That was last year. This year, Rickey Dinnella has 14,000 flags, which he stores in a shed behind his St. Peters home. He doesnt know if they will all fit into the truck.

Every year for Memorial Day, Dinnella takes the flags to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, where he and a cohort of others plant them on the graves of thousands of U.S. servicemen and women.

Boy Scouts plant flags on the other 170,000 graves.

I do it to help honor the memories of people who have given their lives to this country, for our way of life, Dinnella says. There are lots of people there who have done a lot to help protect this country. The least we can do is to show them a little respect.

Dinnellas group helps to cover the cemetery sections that contain the graves of his brother  an Air Force veteran who was a member of the Air Force Bobsled Team (he came within 2/10 of a second from going to the Olympics, Dinnella says) and also his father and mother.

Members of the armed forces can be buried with their spouses at the cemetery, Dinnella says. His father was on a patrol torpedo boat, PT-204, in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans during World War II. His PT boat instructor was John F. Kennedy, who taught after his own boat was struck and sunk.

Dinnella keeps the folded flag that covered his fathers casket on his mantle, under a photo of his father in uniform and the medals that he earned.

Dinnella, 64, served in the Army himself, retiring after 20 years as a first sergeant. Though he was a recruiter for several years, he mostly served as a military policeman, including guarding nuclear missile sites in Europe.

We were called tower rats, because we sat in towers, he says.

He was also stationed in South Korea, including during the 1988 Olympics in Seoul. Among other duties, he helped to guard the hotel where both the American and the Soviet Union teams stayed  it was the last Olympics to field a team from the Soviet Union.

At night, both teams would go downtown to drink together, without protection. Dinnella says he sometimes wondered why the Army bothered to guard the hotel when the athletes willingly made themselves vulnerable in their social lives.

After he retired from the Army, Dinnella became an electrician specializing in low-voltage work such as fire alarms, security systems and telephone boards before they became computerized. He worked for 20 years until a bad car accident forced him to retire officially in 2019, though he still does occasional work and remains active with his union, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1.

The idea for planting flags at the national cemetery came the year after he retired from working as an electrician.

It all started in 2020, when COVID was going and you couldnt have large crowds of people. They werent going to have anyone put flags out at Jefferson Barracks, he says.

So he decided to do what he could, himself.

I went to every Lowes store in St. Louis County, St. Charles County and the City of St. Louis. They all pretty much donated all the flags they had, he says, though some charged him half price. With the pandemic beginning to run rampant, no one was going to buy the flags anyway, he says.

He ended up with 3,000 flags that first year, which he planted himself. Since then, the IBEW union has helped him buy flags, and Pundmann Ford donated an additional 6,000. The union and other groups help him plant the flags and take them down.

Removing the flags is just as important as planting them, he says, but it is harder to get volunteers to help. It isnt as much fun, and the day after Memorial Day is a work day. Some people ask why the flags cant be left standing until the following weekend when more people could take them down, but there is a practical reason.

By rule, the flags must be planted exactly one foot from the the headstone. That distance does not allow enough room for a lawnmower, and the entire cemetery is mowed every week. The process takes the full week.

Dinnella and others will start removing the flags at 8 a.m. May 28. All who wish to help are welcome.

Dinnella begins the process of planting flags on the Friday before Memorial Day. He sticks some 2,000 flags into the gravel in front of the columbarium, which is where the ashes of cremated service members are stored.

On the Sunday before Memorial Day, he returns with the helpers from the union and elsewhere to finish the job with the graves.

A handful of the flags are special. One commemorates the first known burial at the cemetery, which took place in 1827. Eliza Ann Lash, the daughter of an officer stationed at the Jefferson Barracks military post, died at just 18 months old. The flag for her grave, which was sewn by Dinnellas sister, has pink lettering on a white field, to honor a girl who died so young.

Eight other flags are infantry blue in color, with 13 stars and the words Medal of Honor Recipient. Dinnella puts them on the graves of each of the servicemen who received the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nations highest military award for valor.

A ninth serviceman who is buried at Jefferson Barracks received a Medal of Honor, but it was later withdrawn, Dinnella says, because another soldier claimed to have performed the act that was attributed to the other man. No one knows for sure what happened because it occurred during the Civil War, so the medal remains in limbo.

All the medal recipients at Jefferson Barracks were honored for acts performed between the Civil War and World War II. Most of the Medal of Honor recipients who have died since then have been buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Dinnella once got to lay a bouquet of flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, though the honor had nothing to do with his work planting flags at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

The tomb commemorated its 100th anniversary in 2021, and for the first time in a century the public was invited to lay flowers in front of the tomb. Dinnella drove all day to Virginia to participate and then, because it was Veterans Day weekend, drove back the next day to place flags at Jefferson Barracks.

He brought the flowers with him  a red rose, a white rose and a blue rose  from Walter Knoll Florists. He now has a re-creation of the same bouquet, with silk flowers, on his mantle near the flag and the picture of his father.

Dinnella is also active in the national organization Wreaths Across America, which places wreaths on graves for the Christmas holidays. He is the volunteer location coordinator for the group at Jefferson Barracks.

Last year, they placed 37,000 wreaths on graves there, and he is busily raising money to buy more for the cemetery.

My goal is to cover it before I die, he says.
THE HAGUE, Netherlands  The United Nations top court ordered Israel on Friday to immediately halt its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, but stopped short of ordering a cease-fire for the enclave. Although Israel is unlikely to comply with the order, it will ratchet up the pressure on the increasingly isolated country.

Criticism of Israels conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing, particularly since it turned its focus to Rafah. This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognize a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another international court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with Hamas officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under some pressure at home to end the war, which was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people, most civilians, and taking roughly 250 hostage. Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing time is running out.

The charges of genocide brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice in the Hague are false, outrageous and morally repugnant, Netanyahus government said in response to the ruling, maintaining its position that the military hasnt and wont target civilians.

South Africa was able to bring its case because it and Israel are signatories to the U.N.s Genocide Convention, which includes a clause allowing the court to settle disputes over it.

Although the ruling is a blow to Israels international standing, the court doesnt have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has ignored the courts 2022 order to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The sharply focused decision sent a three-pronged message to Israel, ordering a halt to the Rafah offensive, access to Gaza for war crimes investigators, and a big and immediate increase of humanitarian aid to the region, parts of which are enduring famine.

Rafah is in the southernmost part of the Gaza Strip, on the border with Egypt, and over 1 million people sought refuge there in recent months after fleeing fighting elsewhere, with many of them living in teeming tent camps. Israel has been vowing for months to invade Rafah, saying it was Hamas last major stronghold, even as several allies warned that an all-out assault would spell disaster.

Israel started issuing evacuation orders about two weeks ago as it began operations on the edge of the city. Since then, the army says an estimated 1 million people have left as forces press deeper inside.

Rafah is also home to a critical crossing for aid, and the U.N. says the flow of aid reaching it has plunged since the incursion began, though commercial trucking has continued to enter Gaza.

The court ordered Israel to keep the Rafah crossing open, saying the humanitarian situation is now to be characterized as disastrous.

This legally binding and very specific ruling leaves Israel with very little wiggle room, said Reed Brody, a veteran human rights lawyer and prosecutor.

Benny Gantz, a popular centrist member of Netanyahus war cabinet, appeared to indicate that Israel would not change its course regarding Rafah.

The State of Israel is committed to continue fighting to return its hostages and promise the security of its citizens  wherever and whenever necessary  including in Rafah, he said.

"We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for.

Balkees Jarrah, associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, said the courts order underscored the perilous situation of Palestinians in Gaza, but warned that it could be ignored if the international community doesnt use whatever leverage it can on Israel.

The ICJs decision opens up the possibility for relief, but only if governments use their leverage, including through arms embargoes and targeted sanctions, to press Israel to urgently enforce the courts measures, Jarrah said.

The courts president, Nawaf Salam, read out the ruling as a small group of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside.

Fears the court expressed earlier this year about an operation in Rafah have materialized, the ruling said, and Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in the city and anything else that might result in conditions that could cause the physical destruction in whole or in part of Palestinians there.

But the ruling didnt call for a full cease-fire throughout Gaza, as South Africa, which has historic ties to the Palestinian people and brought the case, requested last week.

South Africas foreign minister, Naledi Pandor, said the countrys allegation that a genocide is underway is getting stronger and stronger by the day.

We are really pleased that the court has given very serious consideration to the matters that we put before it and has affirmed that an urgent decision is needed from the court to pause this onslaught against innocent Palestinian people, she told South African state broadcaster SABC, adding that its now up to the U.N. Security Council to determine how to protect the Palestinians.

The cease-fire request is part of a case accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations. The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

The court ruled Friday that Israel must ensure access for any fact-finding or investigative mission sent by the U.N. to investigate the genocide allegations.

At public hearings last week at the International Court of Justice, South Africas ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, urged the panel of 15 international judges to order Israel to totally and unconditionally withdraw from the Gaza Strip.

The court has already found that Israels military operations pose a real and imminent risk to the Palestinian people.

Israels offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which doesnt distinguish between combatants and civilians. The operation has obliterated entire neighborhoods, sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes, and pushed parts of the territory into famine.

This may well be the last chance for the court to act, Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh, who is part of South Africas legal team, told judges last week.

In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it could to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive. In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

The ICJ rules in disputes between nations. A few kilometers (miles) away, the International Criminal Court files charges against individuals it considers most responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

On Monday, the ICCs chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, said he has asked ICC judges to approve arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and three top Hamas leaders  Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh  of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip and Israel.

Associated Press reporters Gerald Imray in Cape Town, South Africa, and Julia Frankel in Jerusalem contributed.

Updated at 2:20 p.m.
News / Press Release

by Mandava Blessing VAAZ Spokesperson

We've seen unscrupulous career politicians attempting to mislead the nation into believing the Veteran Activists for Democracy kowtow to Mwonzora. NADA, we all hate him and his entourage with a passion for donating the democratic struggle to ZANU PF on a silver platter.We're here to demystify the MDC VAA myth so as not to confuse the Nation and also not to mix grain and chaff as some fly-by-night career politicians are clamouring to harvest where they didn't sow pretending to be the ones who rehabilitated political victims' graves, built homes for survivors of murdered activists, provided food hampers for victims, among other philanthropic acts aimed at Victims of State Sponsored Violence. For the record, those who were behind all this are now running The Veteran Activists Association Zimbabwe (VAAZ) after the "Real" MDC was highjacked by ZANU proxies, lackeys and friendlies.We would like to make it categorically clear that The Veteran Activists Association Zimbabwe is neither an affiliate or Associate of the MDC nor a Mwonzora baby.The MDC VAA died when Mwonzora and Cup (Komichi) frantically tried to rope in the Veteran Activists Association through Sox Chikowero, Trainer Ruzvidzos, Rod Ruzvidzo and a few others to fight The People's Chosen leader. WE ALL OBJECTED AND STOOD WITH THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE Advocate Nelson Chamisa. Having failed to highjack the Veterans Movement, Sox and a few formed their own Splinter Briefcase Organisation while 95% of the Veterans moved on with the then Chairperson, the late but Great, Victor Zunza, in safeguarding the founding values of the Poor People's Struggle, Institutional memory and advocating for the welfare of political victims dead or alive.As the then National Executive of MDC VAA, we made many Press Statements castigating Mwonzora at the time of his "Nyathi madness moments". I vividly remember because I was the MDC VAA Spokesperson then. The Majority of the then MDC VAA members were up in arms against Mwonzora for betraying the People's struggle. Therefore, it is folly for one to lie that The Veteran Activists support the leadership of Mwonzora. We cannot support a person who decimated the people's hope, donated the people's struggle for thirty pieces of silver, destroyed every single gain we had made as a Democracy Movement, obliterated what our colleagues in the struggle were murdered for and attempted to extinguish the flame of Democracy.The then MDC VAA Chairperson, the late fearless Veteran Victor Zunza, and the majority of the Veteran Activists rejected Mwonzora, Komichi, Sox and the small clique associated with them leading to them forming a Splinter Grouping.Quite frankly they have no future in the struggle for democracy and should feel free to be paraded as fully-fledged ZANU PF members now; for we now know what they really are and what they stand for.Noteworthy, VAAZ is now led by Dr Magalela Mafa Sibanda who took over after the sad and untimely passing on of Hero Champion Victor Zunza. Dr Mafa is leading a team of battle-hardened Democracy Activists whose ideological clarity is unquestionable, and quest for change is unshaken and unbreakable. They have been instrumental in sponsoring philanthropic projects since the days of old.As Veteran Activists, we are focused on finishing the People's Struggle, safeguarding both the founding values of the People's Struggle and the institutional memory of the Struggle For Democracy.The nation must not be misled by "Toll Gate" career politicians who used to operate "Toll gates" at the Harvest House fleecing money from politicians. Theirs is a mission to derail the struggle and feed their bellies not to serve and save the people. They're delusional and demented.In conclusion, as Veteran Activists we stand where we stood when we stood where we stand; we do not vacillate. We remain vigilant and resilient every time and still maintain that Mwonzora is rogue, a sellout, a ZANU PF friendly, and anyone of like mind is Anti-People's Struggle.VAAZ: INSIKAVAAZ: MUSIMBOTIUKAPINDA: NENI NDAPINDAWO
For months now, this Editorial Board has charted the egregious politicization of the Missouri Attorney Generals office under its current occupant, Andrew Bailey. In our ongoing editorial feature, The Bailey Tally, we have shown how his ideologically driven abuses of power make him Missouris worst statewide public officeholder.

As Bailey this year seeks election to his current job, we hope our attention to his various official stunts will convince readers and voters of his unique unfitness for office.

But we confess, we never imagined that Gov. Mike Parson, who appointed fellow Republican Bailey to office to fill a vacancy last year, might be among the convincible.

Parson hasnt said that, exactly. But in announcing last week that Missouri will under no circumstances pay a defamation judgment that might be headed toward three right-wing state senators, Parson has issued a remarkable (if indirect) refutation of the man who used to be his gubernatorial legal counsel.

State Sens. Rick Brattin, Denny Hoskins and Nick Schroer are being justly sued for defamation by a Kansas man for spreading false social-media allegations that he was involved in the mass shooting that killed one and wounded more than 20 during the Kansas City Chiefs Feb. 14 Super Bowl celebration.

Because the senators reckless comments also falsely suggested the plaintiff was an illegal immigrant, Bailey  never one to miss a chance to demagogue the rights immigrant obsession  announced that his office (meaning, the taxpayers) would provide their legal defense.

As if slandering a private citizen for political gain, as the senators clearly did, somehow qualifies as official state business and is therefore eligible for a state-funded defense.

Parson expressed the qualms of even many top Republicans when he criticized Baileys involvement. Were just not going to attack citizens  just because we think we have the power to do such, Parson said in early May.

Alas, even though he appointed Bailey as attorney general, its still an elective office, meaning Parson cant tell him what to do.

But he can  and, last week, did  draw the states purse strings.

Parson on Monday ordered that no state funds will be released for any monetary judgments that result from the suit. Missourians should not be held liable for legal expenses on judgements due to state senators falsely attacking a private citizen on social media, Parson wrote. I cannot justify money spent in this way.

No responsible public official could. Too bad that description leaves out Missouris top legal official.
Master Sgt. Bryan Rivera, right, Kadena Air Base protocol non-commissioned officer in charge, was awarded the Air and Space commendation medal for heroism on May 10, 2024, by his commander, Maj. David Loska. (Jonathan Sifuentes/U.S. Air Force)

An airman stationed on Okinawa was decorated recently for helping subdue an unruly passenger attacking flight attendants on a Japanese airliner and threatening to open an emergency exit midflight.

Master Sgt. Bryan Rivera, 46, protocol noncommissioned officer in charge at Kadena Air Base, on May 10 was awarded the Air and Space Commendation Medal for meritorious service by his commander, Maj. David Loska.

Rivera said he was spurred to act Jan. 16 on an All Nippon Airways flight from Tokyo to Seattle by his memories of 9/11, an event he witnessed as a native New Yorker.

I definitely wanted to do my part to prevent anything like that from happening again, he told Stars and Stripes by phone May 17. Ive always asked myself, if I was faced with a situation like that, like those passengers on the planes on 9/11, what would I do, how would I react to a situation like that?

Rivera was traveling alone on emergency leave to see his mother when another passenger  described by an airline spokeswoman as inebriated  began punching, kicking and biting the aircrew and other passengers, Rivera said.

It happened so fast, he said.

The passenger, an American, had removed the safety strap from the door and placed his hand on the lever, Rivera said. Someone started screaming, No, no, no! and Rivera moved quickly to subdue the unruly passenger.

Rivera grabbed the mans arms, pulled him from the exit door and onto the floor, where they grappled until Rivera subdued him. Rivera injured his wrist in the scuffle, he said.

He said several other individuals helped restrain and attempted to calm the individual as the aircraft made its way back to Tokyo.

The passenger was handed over to police at the Haneda Airport, the All Nippon Airways spokeswoman told Stars and Stripes by phone April 16. Japanese spokespeople are often required to speak to the media on condition of anonymity.

Rivera said he was less than a mile from ground zero on 9/11, a day that motivated him to join the Air Force.

On Jan. 16, his thoughts turned to his family waiting for him on Okinawa, and if he would see them again, he said.

Life has a funny way of putting you to the test, he said. Seeing myself in a situation where I can do something to defend myself, at the same time answering that long life question that Ive had, if I was ever in that circumstance like [9/11], how would I react? So that moment helped me figure all that out.
A photo attributed to a Marine Corps accident investigation report shows the site in Imperial County, Calif., where an MV-22 Osprey crashed June 8, 2022, killing five Marines on board. (Wisner Baum)

The families of four Marines killed in an MV-22 Osprey crash two years ago have filed suit in San Diego federal court alleging the tiltrotors makers are liable for its defective design and manufacture.

The suit filed Thursday names Boeing, Bell Textron, Rolls Royce Corp. and Rolls Royce North America.

The aircraft, as fielded, has failed and continues to fail to meet the governments safety and reliability specifications and requirements, the suit alleges. The aircraft is not safe in the vertical operating mode, horizontal operating mode, or any transitional or other operating mode in between.

The lawsuit stems from the crash June 8, 2022, in Southern California of a Marine Osprey, call sign Swift 11, that killed five crew members: pilots Capt. Nicholas P. Losapio, 31, of Rockingham, N.H, and Capt. John J. Sax, 33, of Placer, Calif.; crew chiefs Cpl. Nathan E. Carlson, 21, of Winnebago, Ill.; Cpl. Seth D. Rasmuson, 21, of Johnson, Wyo.; and Lance Cpl. Evan A. Strickland, 19, of Valencia, N.M.

Family members of all but Losapio are named as plaintiffs in the suit filed by Wisner Baum, a Los Angeles firm.

We seek accountability, answers, and change, Amber Sax, the widow of John Sax, said in a news release Thursday from the law firm. Our goal isnt to see this platform removed; its to know that someday we will be able to say, their lives enabled others to live, knowing what happened to them wont ever be repeated.

The suit alleges that the pilots were unable to intervene when the aircraft systems failed in flight.

Due to the Ospreys lack of compliance with government specifications, the SWIFT 11s pilots and crew were powerless to counteract the aircrafts uncontrollable asymmetric thrust condition where there was a sudden loss of thrust on the right proprotor and positive thrust on the left proprotor, the suit alleges.

A Bell spokesman, Jay Hernandez, on Thursday told McClatchy News the company cannot comment on matters of litigation, according to the Charlotte, N.C., Observer. Boeing and Rolls Royce could not be reached by Stars and Stripes after business hours.

The Marine Corps determined that Swift 11 was brought down by a dual hard clutch engagement, a problem identified in 2017 that has plagued the aircraft and resulted in Osprey groundings or stand-downs across the military at least twice while it was addressed.

In the case of Swift 11, the problem resulted in a catastrophic loss of thrust on the right-hand proprotor that led to an unrecoverable loss of control and the fatal crash, according to a Marine Corps statement in July 2023 on its accident investigation.

The Ospreys twin, rotating engines allow it take off and land vertically like a helicopter but fly like an airplane.

Attorney Tim Loranger of Wisner Baum, a specialist in aviation law, said the firm has spoken to families of service members that died in a Marine Osprey in Australia and an Air Force Osprey in southern Japan, both crashes in 2023. Eleven service members died in those mishaps.

We dont know theres a common thread with these other crashes, Loranger told Stars and Stripes on Friday. Were not speculating on a common cause.

However, if the report expected this summer on the Nov. 29 Air Force crash in Japan indicates a similar cause, it may inform Lorangers case on behalf of the Marine families, he said.

Loranger, a former Marine aircraft mechanic and Gulf War veteran, said he has experience with similar cases involving the military, which is immune to liability suits under the Feres doctrine.

When something goes wrong because of a manufacturer or designers defect, I think those things need to be discovered and corrected, he said. They are particularly difficult [cases] and have a lot of legal issues to overcome. We take them on if we think they are righteous and necessary cases.
(Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

Colleville-sur-Mer, France, June 6, 2004: Rows of crosses and Stars of David stand in long rows at Normandy American Cemetery, Colleville-sur-Mer, France, decorated with American and French flags. The cemetery is the final resting place for 9,387 of our war dead. Visit one of the Memorial Day services at an American Battle Monuments Commission this Memorial Day weekend.

Check out what will be happening on the Normandy beaches this year for D-Days 80th anniversary on our Europe Community papers D-Day page here: https://europe.stripes.com/d-day/
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)

The wreck of a P-38 fighter flown by Americas all-time top flying ace was found last week, 80 years after it crashed in the jungles of Papua New Guinea.

Capt. Richard I. Bong, who was credited for shooting down 40 Japanese planes during World War II, had named his P-38 Marge after his girlfriend, whom he later married.

Another pilot, while flying the plane on March 24, 1944, on a weather reconnaissance mission over New Guinea, bailed out due to an electrical malfunction on the plane.

Earlier this year, the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, Wis., and Pacific Wrecks announced that they had joined together to find the wreck. On Thursday, the museum announced that the Pacific Wrecks team had located the wreckage on May 15 in thick jungle in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea.

Serial numbers confirmed

The team found several serial numbers on the wreck that confirmed it was the P-38 flown and customized by Bong, museum curator Briana Fiandt told Stars and Stripes by phone Thursday.

The museum hosted a news conference during which Justin Taylan, the search team leader and director of the nonprofit search-and-recovery organization Pacific Wrecks, participated via livestream from Papua New Guinea.

Fiandt said that Taylan described the plane as having crashed nose first into the ground, burying the aircrafts two engines.

All that could be seen above ground were propeller tips, so none of the planes distinctive markings made by Bong were visible, she said.

Steve Kleiman and Justin Taylan, director of Pacific Wrecks, document information May 16, 2024, on a radiator data plate on wreckage in Papua New Guinea from a P-38 plane once flown by World War II flying ace Richard Bong. (Joel Carillet)

Bong had placed a large portrait of his girlfriend, Marjorie Vattendahl, on the planes nose. Near her image was a scoreboard tallying his aerial kills.

The Pacific Wrecks team has no plans to dig the plane out of the ground, Fiandt said.

The team did, however, find a part of the plane far from the crash site.

They had noticed a unique bench in the village that was home to those who helped lead the team to the crash site, she said. The bench, they later learned, was one of the P-38s wings that villagers had brought back from the crash site decades ago and refashioned into furniture, she said.

Bong, a Wisconsin native, had joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in May 1941 as an aviation cadet and a year later was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army Air Force.

He took quickly to flying, making the most of the powerful and agile P-38, which was the fastest fighter plane existing at the outbreak of World War II.

By December 1942 he had shot down his first two enemy planes over Buna, New Guinea. At five aerial victories a month later, he earned the title of ace.

Justin Taylan, director of Pacific Wrecks, poses May 16, 2024, in Papua New Guinea at the crash site of a P-38 fighter once flown by flying ace Richard Bong. (Joel Carillet)

Decorated 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 the one found last week was the most highly celebrated. After it was assigned to him in February 1944, he named it and customized it.

The public ate up the newspaper accounts of Bongs flying prowess and his devotion to his girl back home. He was credited with three aerial victories while piloting this homage to Marge.

On March 24, 1944, 2nd Lt. Tom Malone took Marge up for what would be her last flight when he bailed 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, promoted war bonds and became a test pilot for the first jet fighters.

Bong died on Aug. 6, 1945, in a crash while test flying a P-80 Shooting Star jet fighter in Southern California.
Damage from a May 2, 2024, fire remains visible at the headquarters of U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force at Yokota Air Base, Japan, on May 21, 2024. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes)

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  The workforces for three top-tier commands in Japan are working from alternate locations more than three weeks after a fire forced them to vacate their headquarters building at this airlift hub in western Tokyo.

The building on Davis Street that serves as headquarters for U.S. Forces Japan, 5th Air Force and the United Nations Command Rear was damaged May 2 when a fire broke out on the second floor. The building has been mostly empty since then.

Out of an abundance of caution for health and safety, personnel are working from alternate locations until an assessment of the facility is complete, Master Sgt. Nathaniel Allen, spokesman for Yokotas 374th Airlift Wing, said by email Tuesday.

Agencies within the 374th Airlift Wing are testing and cleaning the building to ensure a safe return, Allen said in a follow-up email Friday.

Since the fire, agencies are carefully evaluating the spread of smoke and other contaminants within the building, he said without identifying the contaminants.

The timeline to return staff to the building will be based on test results and actions that need to be taken in response to them, he said. Allen said the blaze was accidental but did not state the cause.

There is no evidence suggesting negligence or malicious intent in relation to this incident, he said.

Blackened exterior walls indicate the fire began on the 5th Air Force side of the building.

Due to the rapid response from emergency first responders, spread of the fire was minimal and the direct impact was contained to the northeast corner of the second floor where it originated, Allen said.

The 5th Air Force is charged with supporting the defense of Japan and advancing U.S. interests and broader Indo-Pacific security through bilateral air, space and cyber cooperation.

U.N. Command Rear, a subordinate of South Korea-based U.N. Command, would help push reinforcements to the peninsula through Japanese ports in an emergency. It facilitates the missions of warships and aircraft that monitor North Koreas efforts to evade U.N. sanctions.

The command includes U.S., Australian and Canadian servicemembers, Allen said.

The history of the 5th Air Forces World War II and Korean War exploits features prominently throughout the headquarters building, which is off-limits to most personnel on Yokota.

There are trophies and awards won by members of 5th Air Force, patches that flew in the space shuttle Atlantis and medals worn by Col. Paul Irvin Pappy Gunn, a former naval aviator who flew for 5th Air Force in the Philippines during World War II.

Once staff returns to the facility in force, a full review of memorabilia will be assessed, Allen said.

USFJ serves as a liaison between the U.S. military throughout the country and the government of Japan.

The head of USFJ, Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, is a dual-hatted commander also in charge of 5th Air Force, which has authority over 15,000 airmen at three Air Force wings in Japan: the 374th at Yokota, the 35th Fighter Wing at Misawa in northeastern Japan and the 18th Wing at Kadena on Okinawa.

The mission of USFJ and 5th Air Force continues despite the dispersed workforce, Allen said. Multiple systems and procedures allow operations to continue in the event of an emergency or conflict that affects the base, he said.
A Taiwanese Dassault Mirage 2000 fighter jet prepares for take off in this undated photograph. (Taiwan Ministry of National Defense)

Scores of Chinese warships and aircraft were active around Taiwan on Thursday night and Friday morning as exercises meant to discourage Taiwan independence moved into their second day.

The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword 2024A, kicked off Thursday morning in what Chinas Eastern Theater Command described as a powerful punishment for the Taiwan independence separatist forces seeking independence,  according to a post on the Weibo social media site Thursday.

The exercise included combat patrols and joint precision attack drills and was scheduled to conclude Friday, the command wrote in another post.

Between 6 p.m. Thursday and 6 a.m. Friday, 49 Chinese aircraft, 19 warships and seven coast guard vessels were active in the waters and skies around Taiwan, Taiwans Ministry of National Defense said in a Friday post to X, formerly Twitter.

Taiwan in response established a response center and strengthened joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities to prepare for emergencies, the ministry said Thursday in a news release.

The ministry expressed regret for such irrational provocations and said its forces were dispatched to take practical actions to protect the freedom, democracy and sovereignty of Taiwan.

Beijing doubled down on its rhetoric Thursday evening, with Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin stating that Taiwanese independence was doomed to fail, according to the ministrys transcript of Wangs news conference.

Anyone seeking Taiwan independence will find themselves crushed by the historic trend of Chinas complete reunification, he said.

Taiwan split from China in 1949 following a more than 20-year-long civil war and has remained a self-ruling island since. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland, by force if necessary.

The drills came just three days after Taiwan inaugurated President Lai Ching-Te, a member of the Democratic Progressive Party, who pledged to continue the efforts of his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen. Beijing routinely described Tsai as a separatist during her 8-year tenure as president.

Lai, during his inauguration speech on Monday, called on China to face the reality of [Taiwans] existence, respect the choices of the people of Taiwan, and in good faith, choose dialogue over confrontation, according to a transcript posted online by Taiwans Office of the President.

Beijing was expected to respond to Lais remarks, according to Carlyle Thayer, an emeritus professor at the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy. The drills also fell within Chinas three primary forms of warfarepsychological, information and legal  he told Stars and Stripes by email Wednesday.

China reacted similarly in 2023 when Tsai met former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California and in 2022 when McCarthys predecessor Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan.

Those drills allowed Beijing to exercise critical elements of potential military invasion, according to Lt. Gen. Stephen Sklenka, deputy commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

I cannot underscore enough how devastating conflict in the Indo-Pacific region would be, Sklenka said Thursday, according to a video by ABS-CBN News Channel of his remarks at the National Press Club of Australia.

At stake would be untold numbers of lives, trillions of dollars in global economic damage and the maintenance of an international order thats delivered relative peace and stability over the past 80 years, he said in Canberra, Australia.
DODEA school teacher Eric Chipps was remembered at a memorial service in Freedom Chapel at Camp Humphreys, South Korea May 23, 2024. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  Around 100 people gathered at this bases chapel Thursday to pay final respects to an elementary school teacher and Army veteran who many remembered for providing countless jokes for his students.

Eric Chipps, 64, a native of Mount Gilead, Ohio, died of a stroke on May 11, according to his wife, Carol Chipps. In addition to his wife, he is survived by their four children.

School parents and colleagues gathered at the Freedom Chapel at Camp Humphreys on Thursday and recalled how Chipps would bring smiles to students and ensure they were being cared for.

Working with Chipps was a pleasure; he was known as the jolly uncle at the Humphreys West Elementary School, where he most recently taught first grade, principal Edgar Romero said after the memorial service.

He was the one who, just upon entering, the children just wanted to hug, Romero said. He was the one who made the school safe, fluffy and a fun place.

Chaplain Benjamin Letran, an Army captain, leads a memorial service in the Freedom Chapel at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, on May 23, 2024. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)

Chipps was previously diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer that spread to his liver and lungs. He was declared cancer-free nine months ago after years of surgeries and chemotherapy, Carol Chipps said after the service.

Chipps inspired fellow teachers by showing up to work despite battling cancer, Romero said.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Mark Kurvach, an unmanned aircraft system operator for Eighth Army, said his son Josiah attended Chipps second-grade class last year and would would just talk about him all the time.

When Josiah was absent for a few days, Chipps would always send an email saying if he was alright, Kurvach said at the service. I just never encountered a teacher who had done that before.

In a brief eulogy, Carol recalled one of her late husbands favorite jokes to tell his students: Whats orange and goes down the chimney?

Fanta Claus, she said.

Chipps enlisted in the Army as an electronic intelligence analyst in 1976 and attended basic training at Fort Dix, N.J. He served roughly 15 years on active duty in Germany, Turkey, Cuba and Diego Garcia, according to his biography.

Following his military service, Chipps received his bachelors degree in education from West Chester University in Pennsylvania. His teaching career with the Department of Defense Education Activity took him to Japan, Germany and South Korea.
A multidimensional photogrammetry model created by The Lost 52 Project shows the wreck of the USS Harder off the coast of the Philippines, where it was recently found by the project. (The Lost 52 Project)

An organization on a quest to find and memorialize all 52 U.S. submarines lost during World War II has located the wreck of the USS Harder, a sub credited with sinking the most enemy warships during that conflict.

The Naval History and Heritage Command confirmed the wreck site using data collected and provided by Tim Taylor, the CEO of Tiburon Subsea and The Lost 52 Project, according to a command news release Thursday.

Taylor founded The Lost 52 after discovering his first lost U.S. submarine in 2010.

Taylor told NBC News on Wednesday that the Harder was found in the South China Sea near the coast of the Philippines.

Resting at a depth of more than 3,000 feet, the vessel sits upright on her keel relatively intact except for the depth-charge damage aft of the conning tower, the Heritage Command said in the news release.

Submarines by their very design can be a challenge to identify, but the excellent state of preservation of the site and the quality of the data collected by The Lost 52 allowed for [the Heritage Command] to confirm the identity of the wreck as Harder.

The Lost 52 project has previously located the wreckage sites of USS Grayback, USS Stickleback, USS R-12, USS S-26, USS S-28 and USS Grunion.

The USS Harder, nicknamed Hit em HARDER, was renowned for its particularly audacious attacks, Samuel Cox, the retired Navy rear admiral who now directs the Heritage Command, said in the news release.

The sub completed six successful patrols in just over a year before it was last seen off the coast of Luzon, Philippines.

On its fifth patrol, regarded as its most successful, Harder sank three Japanese destroyers and heavily damaged two others, all over the span of only four days.

The subs frequent attacks resulted in Adm. Ozawas Mobile Fleet departing Tawi-Tawi [Philippines] a day ahead of schedule, the Heritage Command news release states. The premature departure upset the Japanese battle plans and forced Ozawa to delay his carrier force in the Philippine Sea, contributing to the defeat suffered by the Japanese in the ensuing battle.

In mid-August 1944, Harder and two other U.S. subs jousted with Japanese vessels over several days.

Japanese records state that on Aug. 24, 1944, Harder fired three torpedoes at escort ship CD-22, which it evaded, the Heritage Command said.

The escort ship then dropped a series of depth charges in Dasol Bay, Luzon. The fifth depth charge attack is believed to have sunk Harder, the Heritage Command said.

The Navy declared Harder, along with its crew of 79, to be presumed lost in January 1945.

The sub was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its first five patrols.

Harders commander, Samuel D. Dealey, received the Navy Cross four times while commanding and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
A Ukrainian artillery unit fires an M777 howitzer at Russian armored vehicles near the town of Snihurivka in Ukraines southern Mykolaiv region in November 2022. (Heidi Levine for The Washington Post)

KYIV  Many U.S.-made satellite-guided munitions in Ukraine have failed to withstand Russian jamming technology, prompting Kyiv to stop using certain types of Western-provided armaments after effectiveness rates plummeted, according to senior Ukrainian military officials and confidential internal Ukrainian assessments obtained by The Washington Post.

Russias jamming of the guidance systems of modern Western weapons, including Excalibur GPS-guided artillery shells and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, which can fire some U.S.-made rockets with a range of up to 50 miles, has eroded Ukraines ability to defend its territory and has left officials in Kyiv urgently seeking help from the Pentagon to obtain upgrades from arms manufacturers.

Russias ability to combat the high-tech munitions has far-reaching implications for Ukraine and its Western supporters  potentially providing a blueprint for adversaries such as China and Iran  and it is a key reason Moscows forces have regained the initiative and are advancing on the battlefield.

The success rate for the U.S.-designed Excalibur shells, for example, fell sharply over a period of months  to less than 10% hitting their targets  before Ukraines military abandoned them last year, according to the confidential Ukrainian assessments.

While other news accounts have described Russias superior electronic warfare capabilities, the documents obtained by The Post include previously unreported details on the extent to which Russian jamming has thwarted Western weaponry.

The Excalibur technology in existing versions has lost its potential, the assessments found, adding that battlefield experience in Ukraine had disproved its reputation as a one shot, one target weapon  at least until the Pentagon and U.S. manufacturers address the issue.

Six months ago, after Ukraine reported the problem, Washington simply stopped providing Excalibur shells because of the high failure rate, the Ukrainian officials said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive security matter. In other cases, such as aircraft-dropped bombs called JDAMs, the manufacturer provided a patch and Ukraine continues to use them.

Ukraines military command prepared the reports between fall 2023 and April 2024 and shared them with the U.S. and other supporters, hoping to develop solutions and open up direct contact with weapons manufacturers. In interviews, Ukrainian officials described an overly bureaucratic process that they said had complicated a path toward urgently needed adjustments to improve the failing weaponry.

The officials agreed to answer questions about the assessments in hopes of drawing attention to the Ukrainian militarys needs. Several Ukrainian and U.S. officials interviewed for this story spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.

The Pentagon anticipated that some precision-guided munitions would be defeated by Russian electronic warfare and has worked with Ukraine to hone tactics and techniques, a senior U.S. defense official said.

Russia has continued to expand their use of electronic warfare, the senior U.S. official said. And we continue to evolve and make sure that Ukraine has the capabilities they need to be effective.

The U.S. defense official rejected claims that bureaucracy has slowed the response. The Pentagon and weapons manufacturers have provided solutions sometimes within hours or days, the official said, but did not provide examples.

Ukraines Defense Ministry, in a statement, said that it cooperates regularly with the Pentagon and also communicates directly with weapons manufacturers.

We work closely with the Pentagon on such matters. In the event of technical problems, we promptly inform our partners to take the necessary measures to solve them in a timely manner, the ministry said. Our partners from the USA and other Western countries provide constant support for our requests. In particular, we regularly receive recommendations to improve the equipment.

U.S.-made guided munitions provided to Ukraine typically were successful when introduced, but often became less so as Russian forces adapted. Now, some arms once considered potent tools no longer provide an edge.

In a conventional war, the U.S. military might not face the same difficulties as Ukraine because it has a more advanced air force and robust electronic countermeasures, but Russias capabilities nonetheless put heavy pressure on Washington and its NATO allies to continue innovating.

Im not saying no one was worried about it before, but now theyre starting to worry, one senior Ukrainian military official said.

As we share information with our partners and our partners share with us, the Russians definitely also share with China, the official added. And even if they dont share with China  China monitors events in Ukraine.

Failing to strike targets

Russias invasion of Ukraine created a modern testing ground for Western arms that had never been used against a foe with Moscows ability to jam GPS navigation.

Innovation is a feature of virtually every conflict, including the war in Ukraine, where each side deploys technology and novel changes to outfox the other and exploit vulnerabilities. The Russian military has been adept at electronic warfare for years, analysts and officials said, investing in systems that can overwhelm the signals and frequency of electronic components, such as GPS navigation, which helps guide some precision munitions to their targets.

Ukraine initially found success using Excalibur 155mm rounds, with more than 50% accurately hitting their targets early last year, according to the confidential assessment, which was based on direct visual observations. Over the next several months, that dropped below 10%, with the assessment pointing to Russian GPS jamming as the culprit.

The study cautioned that far fewer shells were fired later in the research period, and many were not observed, leaving the precise success rate unclear.

But even before the United States ceased deliveries, Ukrainian artillerymen had largely stopped using Excalibur, the assessments said, because the shells are harder to use compared with standard howitzer rounds, requiring time-consuming special calculations and programming. Now they are shunned altogether, military personnel in the field said.

The senior Ukrainian official said Kyiv shared this feedback with Washington but got no response. The Ukrainians have faced a similar challenge with guided 155mm shells provided by other Western countries. Some employ guidance other than GPS, and it is unclear why they also became less effective. U.S. defense officials declined to address the Ukrainian assertion.

The Excalibur precision artillery round typifies many U.S. weapons: pricey and sophisticated but accurate. Ukraine has used the rounds, fired by U.S. artillery systems such as the M777, to destroy targets, like enemy artillery and armored vehicles, from about 15 to 24 miles away.

Rob Lee, a senior fellow with the Foreign Policy Research Institute, a Philadelphia-based research group, said that Russias use of electronic warfare to combat guided munitions was an important battlefield development in the past year. Many weapons are potent when theyre introduced, but they lose effectiveness over time, Lee said, part of a nonstop game of cat-and-mouse between adversaries who constantly adapt and innovate.

The involvement of defense companies is crucial to overcoming Russian defenses such as jamming, Lee said.

The problem with a lot of Western defense companies, Lee said, compared with Russian manufacturers, is that there is not the same sense of urgency.

Dense web of jamming

A web of Russian electronic warfare systems and air defenses menace Ukrainian pilots, the documents said, adding that some Russian jammers also scramble the navigation system of planes. The Russian defense is so dense, the assessment found, that there are no open windows for the Ukrainian pilots where they feel that they are not at gunpoint.

Despite some effort to thwart the jamming, potential fixes seem limited until the West delivers F-16 fighter jets, the assessment found. Such modern planes would allow Ukraines air force to push Russian pilots back, enabling the use of different kinds of weapons with greater range and ability to avoid some electronic warfare systems.

The aircraft-dropped JDAMs provide another example of declining effectiveness of weaponry.

Their introduction, in February 2023, was a surprise to Russia. But within weeks, success rates dropped after non resistance to jamming was revealed, according to the assessment. In that period, bombs missed their targets from as little as 65 feet to about three-quarters of a mile.

Ukraine provided feedback about the jamming problem, and the United States and weapons manufacturers delivered improved systems last May, the documents said. The guidance systems were more resistant, but Russian forces increased countermeasures over the summer. Hit rates dropped to a low in July. Overall, the hit rate was more than 60% for much of the year.

HIMARS launchers were celebrated during the first year of Russias invasion for their success in striking ammunition depots and command points behind enemy lines.

But by the second year, everything ended: the Russians deployed electronic warfare, disabled satellite signals, and HIMARS became completely ineffective, a second senior Ukrainian military official said. This ineffectiveness led to the point where a very expensive shell was used increasingly to strike lower-priority targets.

The Ukrainian military documents did not assess guided M30 or M31 munitions, which are fired from HIMARS launchers. But in January, Ukraines military command wrote a policy paper urging Western supporters to provide an alternative: M26 cluster munitions that also could be launched from multiple-launch rocket systems. These low-tech, unguided rockets are resistant to jamming, and the cluster submunitions can still hit targets in a wide area even if the shot is imprecise.

Kyiv still considers its HIMARS rockets effective, but Russian jamming can cause them to miss a target by 50 feet or more.

When its, for example, a pontoon bridge  but theres a 10-meter deviation, it ends up in the water, the first Ukrainian official said.

Russian jamming signals are sent up from the ground and form a cone-shaped area. Any guided munition  or aircraft  passing through is at risk of interference.

A battalion commander, speaking on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to do so publicly, described flying a reconnaissance drone in foggy conditions last year in Bakhmut to track a HIMARS strike on a Russian position. On his screen, the commander watched in dismay as each rocket missed.

Countermeasures

One way the Ukrainians counter Russias jamming is by targeting known electronic warfare systems with drones before using HIMARS. This has proved effective in some cases.

Initially, there were no problems, the first senior official added. It was simple: the machine arrived. The button was pressed and there was a precise hit. Now, its more complicated.

The official added, The Americans are equipping HIMARS with additional equipment to ensure good geolocation.

One U.S. weapon used by aircraft, the GBU-39 small-diameter bomb, has proved resilient to jamming, according to the confidential documents. Nearly 90% of dropped bombs struck their target, the assessment found.

Its smaller surface area makes it more difficult for Russian systems to detect and intercept, the documents said. Ukraine first received the aerial weapons  a delivery not previously disclosed by the Pentagon  in November 2023.

The GBU-39 was also adapted for land use in HIMARS launchers, a development that Pentagon officials said would increase the range of rocket artillery. But the modified weapons, known as Ground Launched Small Diameter Bombs, or GLSDB, proved ineffective compared with those launched from airplanes, Ukrainian officials said. The ground versions were tested in Ukraine, one official said, and the Americans are working on adjustments before providing them anew.

William LaPlante, the Pentagons acquisition chief, said last month that an adapted weapon didnt work for multiple reasons, including jamming and other tactical and logistical issues. LaPlante did not disclose which weapon he was referring to, but other experts said that he was describing the GLSDB.

When you send something to people in the fight of their lives, LaPlante said, theyll try it three times and then they just throw it aside.

Senior Ukrainian military officials said Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missiles, provided by Britain, are less susceptible to Russian jamming because they do not rely solely on GPS but two other navigation systems, including an internal map that matches the terrain of its intended flight path. Russian air defenses nonetheless have had some success intercepting them.

The Ukrainians have also had success so far with U.S.-provided Army Tactical Missile System long-range missiles, which have a range of up to 190 miles, but they, too, can be targeted by Russian air defenses.

The Ukrainian officials said they expect that weapons effective on the battlefield now will similarly slump within a year.

The Russians will learn how to fight it, the second Ukrainian official said. Thats how the arms race works.

Horton reported from Washington.
Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a briefing in Kyiv, Ukraine, on April 29, 2024. (Thomas Peter/Reuters)

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Ukraines northeastern city of Kharkiv on Friday as it faces intensified Russian air attacks amid an offensive push by Moscows forces into the north of the surrounding region.

The Ukrainian leader met senior military leaders in the city and travelled to the site of a major printing house a day after it was destroyed in a Russian missile attack that killed at least seven people.

Today I am in Kharkiv... I also received updates on defence operations, particularly in the Vovchansk area, as well as the recovery of damaged energy infrastructure, Zelenskiy said on X.

Russian forces launched a cross-border assault on May 10, driving towards the border town of Vovchansk on one line of attack and pushing towards the village of Lyptsi on the other.

Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraines top commander, said on Thursday that Russian forces were locked in street fighting in Vovchansk and that they had moved onto a defensive footing near Lyptsi.

Russia says it wants to set up a buffer zone in the region in what it calls a response to Kyivs shelling of Russian border regions such as Belgorod. Russia frequently launches air strikes on Ukraine from the region of Belgorod.

The assault opened a new front in the war in what Kyiv said was an effort to divert its outnumbered troops from the east where the fiercest fighting is taking place.

Kharkiv, Ukraines second largest city which lies some 30 km from the border with Russia, and the surrounding region have faced daily missile, drone and guided bomb strikes for months.

Most of the energy infrastructure has been severely damaged in the city, which is still home to around 1.3 million people.

The entire city and region of Kharkiv deserve our support, gratitude, and respect, Zelenskyy said.

Reporting by Yuliia Dysa, Editing by William Maclean
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a wreath-laying ceremony marking Holocaust Remembrance Day in the Hall of Remembrance at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Centre, in Jerusalem, on May 6, 2024. (Amir Cohen/Pool/Reuters)

THE HAGUE/BERLIN/LONDON  International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khans request for an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has created a diplomatic quandary for some key member states: How to be supportive of both Israel and the ICC?

Khans move on Monday, the first attempt to go after a sitting, Western-backed head of state, has yet to be reviewed by ICC judges who can amend, reject or approve it. But his step into the globally divisive Israeli-Palestinian conflict has some of the ICCs vocal backers questioning the extent of their loyalty.

Prosecutors had flagged plans ahead of time to some capitals, including Paris, London and Berlin, enabling governments to coordinate reactions. Still, many declined to say what they will do in the event that warrants over the war in Gaza are issued against Israeli leaders.

...Of course it puts us into trouble for various reasons, a German government official said on condition of anonymity, citing Berlins simultaneous unwavering political commitment to Israels security and support for an independent ICC prosecutor.

Germany has already defended its policy of supplying arms to Israel at another international court in The Hague, and an ICC warrant for Netanyahu would add more unwelcome political pressure, diplomatic sources said.

It could also undermine German efforts to bolster support for the ICC in Washington, one government source said.

U.S. President Joe Biden called Khans targeting of Israeli officials outrageous and said there is no equivalence between Hamas and Israel, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration is willing to work with Congress to potentially impose sanctions on ICC officials.

The war in Gaza erupted after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and seizing over 250 hostages according to Israeli tallies. Over 35,000 Palestinians have since been killed in an Israeli invasion and bombardments of Gaza, with at least 10,000 more missing and much of the enclave pounded into rubble, Gazas health ministry says.

Khan requested arrest warrants against Netanyahu, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant as well as three Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the conflict.

BRITAIN AND ITALY AT ODDS WITH FRANCE

Divisions in Europe over Khans decision reflect a deeper international schism over the Palestinians longtime quest for statehood, brought to the forefront on Wednesday when several countries said they would recognise a Palestinian state.

All 27 European Union countries are ICC members and EU chief diplomat Josep Borrell noted that they are bound to execute the courts decisions.

But Khans move exposed political differences between European powers over the conflict and their efforts to support international justice.

Britain, an ICC member since 2001 which backed Khans bid to become prosecutor, had sought ways together with G7 counterparts to prevent the ICC from issuing problematic warrants for Israelis, one diplomatic source said.

I dont believe for one moment that seeking these warrants is going to help get the hostages out, its not going to help get aid in and its not going to help deliver a sustainable ceasefire, Foreign Secretary David Cameron told Britains upper house of parliament on Tuesday.

And as weve said from the outset, because Israel is not a signatory to the (ICCs founding) Rome statute and because Palestine is not recognised as a state, we dont think that the court has jurisdiction in this area, he added.

While Israel is not a member of the ICC and rejects its jurisdiction, the court admitted the Palestinian territories in 2015 and Khan says his office has jurisdiction over the events since Oct. 7 in Israel and the Gaza Strip.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told local TV on Monday he opposed equating the crimes of Hamas - an Islamist movement sworn to Israels destruction - on Oct. 7 to the response of the military of a democratically elected government.

He told Corriere della Sera daily on Tuesday that an ICC warrant could fuel antisemitism. An Italian Foreign Ministry official said any coordinated response by European states is unlikely because of differing views on the ICC and Israel.

Foreign Minister Micheal Martin of Ireland said it is vital that we respect the independence and impartiality of the ICC, while Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said the prosecutors request was appalling and completely unacceptable.

In a statement, France said it had for months been warning of the need for strict compliance with international humanitarian law, and in particular of the unacceptable level of civilian casualties in Gaza.

The French Foreign Ministry added that it supports the International Criminal Court, its independence and the fight against impunity in all situations.

Spains Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz, also posting on social media, welcomed the good news of the ICC prosecutors request. International law must apply to everyone. We have been calling for months for support for their investigation.

Spains cooperation with the ICC arrest warrants is anchored in domestic law and executing them is automatic through Interpol, a government source said on condition of anonymity.

Israel and Palestinian leaders have dismissed allegations of war crimes, and representatives of both sides criticised Khans decision.

ICC INDEPENDENCE

Anthony Dworkin, senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said the request for warrants in itself could limit any travel plans for Netanyahu and Gallant.

All 124 member states are required to arrest wanted fugitives from the ICC, he said.

It would be especially damaging if European countries fail to observe arrest warrants, as they have always been among the courts most active supporters, he said.

It is vital for the credibility of European claims to support the rule of law that European officials do nothing to undermine or condemn the ICCs actions, or suggest that democratic countries should be above the law.

The ICC has no police force, so the arrest of suspects must be carried out by member or cooperative states. In 2015, South Africa let then-Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir walk away even though the ICC wanted him for alleged war crimes and genocide.

The Netherlands, an outspoken ally of Israel which hosts an array of international courts in The Hague, declined to answer specific questions about whether it would act upon a possible warrant in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

(Reporting by Anthony Deutsch, Andrew MacAskill, Andreas Rinke; additional reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout in Amsterdam, Stephanie van den Berg in The Hague, Elizabeth Piper in London, Tassilo Hummel in Paris, Belen Carreno in Madrid, Angelo Amante in Rome and Jan Lopatka in Prague; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Actor Chris Pratt and the other star of "The Garfield Movie" are seen in this screenshot from a promotional video posted to social media. Pratt took time out for an online talk with service members and their families on May 23, 2024. The 30-minute video call was hosted by the USO. (X/The Garfield Movie/Sony Pictures)

Actor Chris Pratt was the cats meow this week for American service members and their families in dozens of locations worldwide, taking part in a USO video call to promote The Garfield Movie, which opened Friday.

On Thursday, Pratt brought humor and Hollywood insight to the USO audience. He is the voice of the fat and famous feline of the movie title, and he stars alongside Samuel L. Jackson, who voices Garfields estranged father, an alley cat named Vic.

The 30-minute call went live to two locations in Italy and one in Germany but was seen by an audience throughout the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and elsewhere.

I had a heck of a time making it, Pratt said. Its sweet, its funny, its unexpected because Garfield is this pampered indoor cat, but hes taking on this wild outdoor adventure.

Service members and their families had a live discussion with actor and producer Chris Pratt, star of "The Garfield Movie," on May 23, 2024, hosted by the USO. (USO/John Russo)

From Naval Air Station Sigonella on the Italian island of Sicily, a 12-year-old girl asked Pratts advice for becoming an actor. Practice makes perfect, he replied.

Dont get too nervous if the first few times you try acting it makes you nervous, he said. Watch lots of movies and watch lots of plays. Get a lot of understanding about who you are and what you bring as an actor because theres something special and unique about every person, Pratt said.

A girl named Simona touched on something many military families feel acutely when she asked Pratt about the longest hes ever been away from home while filming.

During the coronavirus pandemic, while filming Jurassic World Dominion, Pratt was in London for about three-and-a-half months. His now 3-year-old daughter had just been born, and he said he saw her for the first two weeks of her life then had to leave.

In Vicenza, Italy, specialist combat medic Josh Kozak asked how Pratt brought his spirit to the role of Garfield.

All I ate was lasagna all day long, and boy, I just cant get enough, Pratt joked.

More seriously, he said he adjusted his voice to have more of a yawn in it in the beginning of the movie, adding that he shifted to a more energetic vocalization as Garfield sets out on his adventure.

Service members and their families tune in from Naval Air Station Sigonella, in Sicily, on May 23, 2024 to ask Pratt questions and get a sneak peek of the new Garfield movie. (USO Sigonella)

He also ad libs a bit on the script, adding colloquialisms to some of his lines to make them his own.

Summarizing the plot of The Garfield Movie, IMDB says that after Garfields unexpected reunion with his father, he and his friend Odie the dog are forced from their perfectly pampered lives to join Vic on a risky heist.

The trailer for the movie can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeFWNtMo1Fs

In Stuttgart, Germany, viewers had a large orange cat on site in honor of the event, which they showed off to Pratt. A person there asked what Pratt likes most about voice acting.

I have young kids. I love being in movies they can watch and enjoy, he said. And when I do voice acting Im close to home. I dont have to go on location. I can sleep in my own bed at night.

Bearing that in mind, Pratt was quick to thank the service members, who dont always get that luxury.

Im out here living my dream, and I know thats possible because youre out there to defend my freedoms, he said. Im praying for your safety and health, and the health and well-being of your families.
U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-NY, speaks during a briefing at the Capitol in Washington, on May 7, 2024. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/Reuters)

A U.S. defense spending bill advanced by the House of Representatives this week contains a measure that would bar the use of Chinese-made lidar sensors in U.S. military systems.

The measure, introduced by Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, would block the U.S. Defense Department from buying or using the Chinese-made version of the technology, which is a type of light sensor that is widely used in both autonomous vehicles and drones to help the machines gain a three-dimensional view of the world around them.

As the U.S. military increases its use of autonomous unmanned systems, my amendment sends a clear signal that the U.S. cannot rely on untrusted lidar that jeopardizes our national security and undermines the competitiveness of American companies, Stefanik said in a statement.

If passed into law, the measure would add to growing U.S. unease with Chinese-made lidar sensors. In January, the Defense Department added Chinas Hesai Group, one of the biggest makers of lidar systems, to a list of companies with alleged ties to Beijings military.

Hesai has sued the Defense Department, arguing that the Chinese military does not exert any influence or control over the group and alleging that the designation harmed its reputation.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told Reuters last year his agency has national security concerns about such technologies and that there was a need to better understand the true ownership of the different enterprises that are supplying different elements of our transportation systems.

Reporting by Stephen Nellis; Editing by Sharon Singleton
Recognizing this economic reality and the various traumas of domestic or intimate abuse, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) instructed federal agencies to provide enhanced support to federal workers seeking safety and recovering from domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other related forms of abuse or harassment, including technological abuse. (Wikimedia Commons)

The revolting video of Sean Diddy Combs hurling Cassie Ventura, his former girlfriend, to the floor, then kicking, and dragging her, brutally demonstrates the need to protect domestic abuse victims.

There are far too many Venturas, including in the federal service.

Their pain can be more than physical and psychological. The financial hit could be as severe as Combss kicks, not just for the person, but also for the public. After CNN released a video of the beating last week, Combs acknowledged his actions, saying in a statement that he was truly sorry. But apologies, such as his, do not make any pain disappear.

Recognizing this economic reality and the various traumas of domestic or intimate abuse, two days before the video was released the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) instructed federal agencies to provide enhanced support to federal workers seeking safety and recovering from domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other related forms of abuse or harassment, including technological abuse.

In a memorandum to government leaders, Robert H. Shriver, III, OPMs acting director, said the Biden administration is committed to supporting the safety of our employees and providing them flexibility to recover from trauma, helping employees remain in good standing in their jobs to safeguard their financial independence, rebuild, and heal.

The leave may be used for a variety of purposes, according to OPM, including:

 Seeking medical and mental health treatment

 Obtaining housing

 Securing services for domestic abuse survivors

 Attending court hearings related to domestic violence, including protective orders and child custody.

OPM declined requests to interview Shriver and other OPM officials. By email, the agency said safe leave, its term for time off for domestic abuse issues, is not a new type of leave entitlement for federal workers. Instead, it uses existing leave programs. The time off feds take because of domestic abuse could be paid or unpaid depending, in OPMs terms, on policies available to them that may apply in situations involving safe leave purposes. Shrivers memo said OPMs directive was needed because the leave system for Federal employees was not constructed with concepts of safe leave in mind.

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) welcomed the administrations action, saying in an interview that intimate abuse leave for federal workers should have been granted some time ago. Citing the trauma of domestic violence, she added the least that can be done, it seems to me for federal employees, is to allow them to take time off  to address their own safety and even the safety of their family members.

That leave, she said, should be of course with pay. Otherwise, it seems to me that it would be very difficult to take time off. Last year, a White House report on a U.S. National Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (GBV) endorsed forms of paid leave as important work-related policies that may help prevent abuse and assist survivors to address and recover from GBV.

Katie Ray-Jones, CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline (which is funded by the U.S. government) praised the new policy. I think it sets a really good role model for the rest of our country, she said.

While more and more business and organizations, even small ones, are developing policies to support domestic violence victims, intimate abuse leave is not incredibly common, she added, and even less so for paid leave.

Yet, the needs are vast, Ray-Jones continued. So, its important that employers have opportunities in place to just really ensure that victims dont have a financial impact. Financial abuse is present in almost 98 percent of abusive relationships. Examples of financial abuse are taking a partners money and sabotaging their employment by disturbing their workplaces, she said.

The financial impact on individuals compounds a national, macroeconomic impact of domestic violence.

In 2014 the estimated intimate partner violence lifetime cost was $103,767 for female victims and $23,414 for male victims, according to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. That amounts to a population economic burden of nearly $3.6 trillion  over victims lifetimes.

Other statistics demonstrate the breadth of the problem. Almost one-third of women and nearly 25 percent of men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime, according to the 2022 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey published by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2023, about 10 percent of the 431,213 people who contacted the Hotline were male.

While the OPM guidance to agencies is new, the groundwork was laid well in advance. Last years 150-page White House document says paid leave policies foster an inclusive workforce and support survivors who need to take time away from work to seek safety or recover from GBV.

Introducing the report, President Biden said no one - no one, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, should experience abuse. Period. And if they do, they should have the services and support they need to get through it.

The Republican chairmen of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee and its subcommittee on the federal workforce, Reps. James Comer (Ky.) and Pete Sessions (Tex.), respectively, did not respond to a request for comment.

Federal employees should feel fully supported to take time off and address their safety or a member of their familys safety, said a statement by Shriver. Domestic violence, stalking, and other forms of abuse and harassment have no place in the workplace.
In this undated photo provided by Saffrine Duggan, her husband Dan Duggan poses for a photo in a restaurant. (Saffrine Duggan)

SYDNEY  Former U.S. Marine pilot Daniel Duggan can be extradited from Australia to face U.S. charges of training Chinese military pilots to land on aircraft carriers, a Sydney magistrate ruled on Friday.

Duggan, 55, a naturalized Australian citizen, is facing U.S. charges including money laundering and breaking arms control law by training Chinese military pilots to land on aircraft carriers. He denies the allegations.

He has 15 days to seek a review of the magistrates ruling. The decision to extradite will ultimately be made by Australias Attorney General.

Outside court, his wife Saffrine said the family would appeal to Attorney General Mark Dreyfus to refuse the extradition.

One of seven co-conspirators in a U.S. indictment is convicted Chinese hacker Su Bin, although Duggans lawyers argue the hacking case is unrelated.

Duggan was arrested by Australian federal police in a rural town in New South Wales state in October 2022, shortly after returning from China, where he had lived since 2014.

In the same week, Britain issued a warning to its former defense staff not to train Chinese Peoples Liberation Army pilots at a South African flying academy where Duggan had also worked.

Duggan, whose wife and six children are also Australian, has been held in a maximum security prison since his arrest. Saffrine Duggan placed her hand against the glass window to the dock where Daniel Duggan sat in court on Friday.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss said the criteria for extradition had been met. Mr Duggan is eligible for surrender, he said.

Duggans lawyers had previously argued there is no evidence the Chinese pilots he trained were military, and that he became an Australian citizen in January 2012, before the alleged offenses.

The United States government has argued Duggan did not lose his U.S. citizenship until 2016, when he signed a document renouncing it in the U.S. embassy in Beijing.

Duggan was barred from leaving China in 2014, his lawyer wrote in a filing to the attorney general, and knew Su Bin as an employment broker for Chinese aviation company AVIC.

Su Bin pleaded guilty in 2016 to theft of U.S. military aircraft designs by hacking major U.S. defense contractors.
Mohamed Nur, 34, ran up behind 31-year-old Johanita Kossiwa Dogbey and stabbed her three times in the neck

Johanita Dogbey was murdered by Mohamed Nur on May 1 last year (Metropolitan Police/PA)

Mohamed Nur, who murdered by Johanita Dogbey on May 1 last year (Met Police/PA)

An extremely dangerous man has been jailed for at least 32 years for the horrific killing of a woman as part of a series of random slasher attacks in Brixton.

Drug addict Mohamed Nur, 34, ran up behind 31-year-old Johanita Kossiwa Dogbey and stabbed her three times in the neck as she walked home in south London last May 1.

Two days earlier, he had slashed the faces of two women and a man in what the Old Bailey heard were unprovoked and random attacks.

Nur had admitted murder and having a homemade blade on May 1 and was found guilty of three charges of unlawful wounding.

On Thursday, Nur failed to attend court and was sentenced in his absence to life with a minimum term of 32 years.

Judge Angela Rafferty KC said the murder was random, vicious, horrific and without mercy.

Addressing Nur despite his absence, she said: You stabbed her three times in her neck causing the fatal wounds. You did not stop until she fell down.

Referring to CCTV of the attack, she said: It is a sickening piece of footage to view but it must have been more horrific for those present to witness.

She added: You have led a life dominated by drug use. You are a very dangerous man and the risk you pose is incalculable.

Finding he was extremely dangerous, the judge said that if he had not been arrested, Nur would have struck again.

During the hearing, Ms Dogbeys younger sister Laura outlined the impact of losing her innocent, loving, selfless sister.

She told the court: To say it was the worst day of my life would be too simple. To say it broke me would be an understatement.

It hurts to think no-one was able to protect her from the actions of this man who snuck up behind her and took her life.

She condemned the selfish and premeditated killing, saying her sister would never hurt a fly.

In mitigation, Jeremy Wainwright KC said: It is accepted there cannot be any reason or justification for such a shocking and horrific offence such as this.

Mr Wainwright understood the victims family wanted to know why but he had no explanation to offer them.

Johanita Dogbey was murdered by Mohamed Nur on May 1 last year (Metropolitan Police/PA)

Nur, who came to the UK from Somalia in 1993, became addicted to drugs and was homeless from December 2022, the court heard.

At the time of the attacks, he was living in accommodation for vulnerable adults in Vauxhall, south London, and had previous convictions possession of cannabis, a firearm, ammunition and blades.

Nur had attacked his first three victims in quick succession in Brixton at around 11.30pm last April 29.

The victims  Rebecca Wilkes, Tomasz Kmiecik and Katie Matthews  all sustained cuts to the face.

Prosecutor Julian Evans KC said: In each case, the victim did nothing to confront or provoke the man who attacked them. Each victim was attacked without warning and for no apparent reason.

In short, all three attacks were completely random. There is nothing to suggest that the man who carried out the attacks knew anything about any of three victims.

Nur was wearing a distinctive jacket and a top with a black hood pulled down over his face  the same outfit he had on when he killed Ms Dogbey.

Graphic CCTV footage of the murder of Ms Dogbey was shown in court.

Mr Evans said that at about 4pm last May 1, Ms Dogbey had been walking alone in Stockwell Park Walk carrying a shopping bag and a mobile phone.

She was returning home after a trip to Oxford Street in central London to buy her mother a birthday present.

She was on the phone to her grandmother when she was attacked from behind by Nur.

Mr Evans said: From the CCTV footage, it is clear that Johanita had no idea that Mohamed Nur was close behind her, or that he was about to attack her.

The attack was sudden, it was violent, and it was without warning. It was completely unprovoked.

Mohamed Nur repeatedly stabbed Johanita in the area of her neck. He did so until she fell to the ground.

Ms Dogbey was heard to say leave me, leave me during the onslaught.

Afterwards, Nur ran away, discarding his weapon in a housing estate where it was later recovered by police.

Members of the public had phoned 999 and police and medics quickly arrived at the scene.

Despite the efforts of members of the London Ambulance Service, Ms Dogbey died at 4.42pm.

Ms Dogbeys grandmother had heard a commotion while on the phone with her and alerted the victims father after the call ended abruptly.

He and Ms Dogbeys sister rushed to the scene where police informed them that she had died.

A post-mortem examination identified the cause of death as sharp force trauma to the neck.

Last May 2, Nur was stopped by police in Brixton High Street in possession of a weapon fashioned from a piece of broken mirror.

When asked what he had been doing that day, Nur said that he had been smoking crack cocaine.

On being arrested for Ms Dogbeys murder, he said: What, whos she?

In statements read to the court, the surviving victims described the impact of the attacks.

Ms Wilkes said she had been physically and mentally scared and Mr Kmiecik described suffering from post traumatic stress disorder.

Ms Matthews said she had suffered increased anxiety and being irrationally fearful of strangers.

She said: It could so easily have been me that died in that moment. I was just having a weekend away with friends.

Earlier, Judge Rafferty indicated possible consequences for Nurs failure to attend court, saying: We cannot have defendants in cases such as this not turning up to court.
Colum Ryan (35), who is also charged with falsely imprisoning a woman, had a book of evidence served on him at Dublin District Court today

A FOURTH garda arrested in an anti-corruption probe has been sent for trial charged with burglary and perverting the course of justice.

Colum Ryan (35), who is also charged with falsely imprisoning a woman, had a book of evidence served on him at Dublin District Court today.

Judge Michael Ramsay sent him forward to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Three other members of the force charged in connection with the same investigation were sent for trial last week.

Gda Ryan, with an address in Co Meath, is charged with falsely imprisoning a woman at St Johns Road West in Dublin 8 on September 7, 2021, and burgling a basement flat at Mountjoy Square North on the same date.

The burglary charge alleges Gda Ryan entered the flat as a trespasser and committed a theft.

He faces three counts of perverting the course of justice, between September 30, 2021 and December 8, 2021. He allegedly created and printed a warrant and information for the search of the basement flat that had already occurred on September 7, and procured two signatures.

Today, Judge Ramsay gave Gda Ryan the formal notice that he had 14 days to provide any alibi details to the prosecution.

The accused nodded that he understood this notice when asked.

The judge ordered the prosecution to furnish the defence with the accuseds garda interview video. He granted free legal aid, to cover both junior and senior counsel at trial.

This was following an application by defence solicitor Elizabeth Hughes, who said she was requesting it due to the nature and seriousness of the charges.

Judge Ramsay sent Gda Ryan forward on existing bail to the next sittings of the circuit court, on June 20.

Last week, co-accused Sergeant Ciaran Whelan (51) of Nenagh, Co Tipperary, Garda Mark Duffy (39) with an address in Dublin 15 and Garda Robert Gorman (43) from north Dublin were sent for trial charged with perverting the course of public justice and burgling flats in Dublin.

Sgt Whelan is further charged with false imprisonment of a woman.

The three are due to appear in the circuit court on June 13. All incidents alleged to have happened in 2021, when the accused were stationed in Store Street in the north inner city.

Peace commissioner and former Labour Party councillor Steven Wrenn (50), of Iveragh Road, Whitehall, Dublin has pleaded not guilty to perverting the course of justice and forging search warrants for the flats.

He has not yet been sent for trial and is due to be served with a book of evidence next month.

The prosecutions were brought following an investigation by the Garda Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU).
So far, three people have been appeared in court in connection with the incident.

A man who was once battered by the UDA is the third person to be charged in connection with a horrific attack on a Good Samaritan and his young daughters.

The victim was with his children in Derrys city centre when he stepped in to try and stop a fight among a group of street drinkers.

However, some of those involved in the scrap turned on the man and he was forced to flee with his daughters.

So far, three people have been appeared in court in connection with the incident.

The Sunday World can reveal the latest of the accused is Kurtis Edgar, a 28-year-old Belfast man previously battered by the UDA.

Edgar, who had been kicked out of the Shankill area of Belfast by loyalist paramilitaries, was beaten up by UDA members in Larne in 2018.

Edgar has recently been living at an address at Carlisle Road in Derry.

He faces a total of eight charges in connection with last weeks incident, which happened at the junction of Sackville Street and Strand Road around 8pm on Wednesday, May 8.

The PSNI said they received a report of a fight involving five to six people.

Kurtis Edgar

It was reported a member of the public who had his three children in a nearby vehicle had attempted to break up the fight.

However, he was allegedly assaulted by some of the people involved.

The car was also damaged during the incident.

When police arrived on the scene, officers arrested a 25-year-old woman, Yasmin Anderson, and a 31-year-old man, Gareth McClurg.

A PSNI officer was punched in the face during the arrest operation.

Both Anderson and McClurg appeared before Derry Magistrates Court on Friday of last week.

Anderson, of no fixed abode, was charged with assaulting a man during the Derry attack.

She was also charged with criminal damage to a car, disorderly behaviour and being involved in an affray.

McClurg, whose address was given as Spencer Road in Derry, was charged with assaulting police officers, assaulting a man and making threats to kill in connection with the same incident.

He was also charged with criminal damage to a car, disorderly behaviour, obstructing police and being involved in an affray.

In relation to a separate domestic incident, McClurg was further charged with assaulting a female, with the offence aggravated by domestic abuse and making a threat to kill her.

Andersons solicitor said there would be no bail application for his client as there was some difficulty in securing a suitable bail address at this time.

She was remanded in custody to appear in court on June 6.

A bail application on behalf of McClurg was opposed by police.

The court was told when police arrived at the scene and were speaking to Anderson, McClurg intervened and became abusive and spat at an officer. He was then said to have struggled with officers and tried to spit at other officers and made threats to kill them.

The police officer said the incident was captured on CCTV and the Good Samaritan could be seen trying to help before being set upon by the crowd. The incident was described by the officer as an unprovoked assault on a member of the public.

In relation to the domestic incident, the officer said that McClurg, who has 88 previous convictions, had recently started a relationship with a woman.

On May 8, the court was told, McClurg became upset and phoned her father.

She said the defendant became very aggressive and made a threat to kill her.

Bail was opposed by police due to the high risk of reoffending.

McClurgs solicitor said his client had been released from prison with no support and ended up at a homeless shelter in Derry.

He claimed McClurg was not the instigator of the incident in the city centre on May 8.

He said McClurg insisted he had no memory of the incident but was denying the charges.

In relation to the domestic incident, the barrister said his client claimed he told the woman about his convictions and she became upset and left the house.

Deputy District Judge Liam McStay refused bail.

Edgar was arrested on May 9 in connection with the attack the previous evening.

He appeared in court on Saturday but it is understood there were no journalists present for the weekend hearing.

However, the Sunday World can today outline the eight charges he faces.

Edgar is accused of assaulting the man who tried to break up the fight, as well as assaulting his three daughters.

He is further charged with disorderly behaviour, affray and damaging a car at the scene.

He is also accused of sending a message via a public electronic communications network which he knew to be false for the purpose of causing annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety to another.

It is believed Edgar was remanded in custody.
The garda was taken to hospital and was later discharged but remains off duty

A MAN charged with having a sword as a weapon during a dangerous driving incident in Dublin in which a garda was injured on Monday has been released on bail pending possible further charges.

The garda was taken to hospital and was later discharged but remains off duty.

Father of one Dylan Murphy, 31, of Valeview Drive, Finglas, Dublin, was arrested today and charged with dangerous driving at Denewood Apartments, Castleknock, on May 20, and with a weapons offence for unlawful possession of a sword at the same time.

He appeared before Judge Monika Leech at Dublin District Court on Friday evening.

Garda Sergeant Paul McMahon told the court that he met Mr Murphy shortly after 3pm and the accused made no reply when charged.

The sergeant confirmed he had no objection to bail subject to conditions.

The defendant, represented by solicitor Emer OSullivan, agreed to the terms furnished to the court. Judge Leech noted that he had already surrendered his passport to the gardai, and she ordered him not to apply for a replacement.

The judge ordered the case to resume at Blanchardstown District Court on July 5, when it will be listed for possible further charges.

Legal aid was granted to Mr Murphy after the judge heard he was getting a disability payment. He has not yet indicated a plea.
Vimalkarthick Balasubramaniam (27) sat beside the victim and concealed his hand with a bag before rubbing her leg and trying to put his hand up her skirt, a court had heard.

A data engineer who sexually assaulted a 14-year-old schoolgirl who was sitting alone on a Dublin bus has avoided a jail sentence.

Vimalkarthick Balasubramaniam (27) sat beside the victim and concealed his hand with a bag before rubbing her leg and trying to put his hand up her skirt, a court had heard.

Judge David McHugh imposed a four-month sentence which he suspended for two years.

The accused, with an address in west Dublin, had previously pleaded guilty to sexual assault.

Garda James Byrne previously told Blanchardstown District Court that the girl was travelling home on a bus from the city centre on the afternoon of April 26 this year when a lone male got on and sat next to her.

The male was unknown to her, the court heard.

Balasubramaniam placed his right hand on the girls left thigh and he rubbed her leg with his thumb, under her school skirt. The girl believed this to be intentional and told her family when she went home.

The girl and her mother then went to a garda station and she reported she had been touched inappropriately.

The victim later told a specialist garda interviewer that the defendant had placed a bag on his lap which covered his hand and she felt movement on her leg. His whole hand was there but she felt his finger rubbing and she said he tried to put his hand up her skirt above the knee.

She gave gardai a description of the accused, who was later identified and charged.

The court previously heard Balasubramaniam was originally from India. He was a data app engineer and was married. He had since lost his job.

The case was before the court for sentencing and the preparation of a victim impact statement.

However, Judge McHugh was told that a victim impact statement was not available. The victim wished to forget about the incident and move on with her life, the court heard.
Suan Ring admitted the charges and said that the drugs were for herself and a friend that she shared them with.

A woman who admitted possession of cannabis and was caught with a weighing scales and deal bags on her property never made a penny from drugs, a court was told.

Prosecuting, Sgt. Trish OSullivan told the court that gardai obtained a warrant to search the home of Suan Ring, 41, of St Colmans Park, Macroom, Co. Cork on July 21, 2023.

The search of the premises was carried out at 8pm and cannabis valued at approximately 560 as well as a weighing scales and deal bags were recovered.

Ms Ring was was charged with one count of possession of controlled drugs for unlawful sale or supply and one count of simple possession.

The court was told that Ms Ring admitted the charges and said that the drugs were for herself and a friend that she shared them with.

Defence solicitor Patrick Goold said that Ms Ring was a single mother who looked after her 11-year-old child.

He said that Ms Ring had a long-standing problem with addiction to cannabis and prescription drugs which she acknowledged and had taken steps to address.

He said the amount of cannabis seized was relatively small and that Ms Ring shared it with a friend when she had it and her friend shared with her as well.

He said that Ms Ring had never made a penny from the sale of drugs.

Ms Rings employer was in court to support her and Mr Goold said that her employer described her as an exemplary employee of very good character.

He said that she had had an issue for 25 years and he asked the judge not to impose a custodial sentence.

The court heard that Suan Ring had 25 previous convictions including one for sale or supply of illegal drugs and three for possession of illegal drugs.

Judge William Aylmer said that her history of drug use over an extended period was a concern and added that the support of her employer and her commitment to treatment were in her favour.

For the sale or supply charge he sentenced her to two months in prison, suspended for a year and the possession charge was taken into consideration.
The Garda member was taken to the hospital for treatment and later discharged

A man has been arrested after a garda was hospitalised after being hit by a car while responding to a violent incident in Dublin earlier this week.

The man, in his 30s, was arrested this morning and is currently being detained at a Garda station in the Dublin region.

Gardai said they are investigating all the circumstances of an incident of endangerment that occurred in Dublin 15 on Monday, May 20.

When a number of Garda units responded to an incident at an apartment complex in Castleknock shortly before 1am on this date, a car that was attempting to avoid Gardai collided with a male Garda member, they said in a statement.

The Garda member was taken to the hospital for treatment and later discharged. He remains off duty at this time.

Garda welfare services have been put in place for the Garda member and his colleagues.

Gardai added that as a result of investigations into this incident, a man in his 30s was arrested this morning.

He is currently being detained at a Garda Station in the Dublin Region under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984.

Earlier, the Garda Representative Association (GRA) described the incident as "deeply regrettable" and added that the young garda "feels blessed" to have avoided more serious injuries.

Gardai had been alerted to reports of an armed incident involving a suspect armed with a sword at the time, according to sources.

Its understood that, as gardai attempted to detain the suspect, he drove a car at a young garda and hit him with the vehicle.

The driver subsequently rammed a number of garda patrol cars before fleeing the scene.

The young garda who was hospitalised is understood to feel blessed that he avoided life-threatening injuries, according to the members representative group.

The GRA also said it is deeply regrettable that yet another young garda has been injured on duty.

GRA delegate Mark Ferris, of the west Dublin garda division, said that he has spoken with his injured colleague who has since been discharged from hospital.

He is recovering and naturally is in shock having been struck by the assailants vehicle. Reflecting on what was a lethally dangerous situation, he feels blessed that he wasnt run over and his injuries are non-life threatening.

As a representative for Garda members, it is incumbent on me and the GRA, to highlight the ongoing law and order crisis afflicting the State.

As public servants on the sharp end of the criminal justice system we are vulnerable to the flagrant lack of regard a minority of violent criminals have for the conventions of civilised society.

No member of An Garda Siochana deserves to be injured or face assault while on duty but unfortunately too often that is the case and there are simply not enough Gardai to protect their colleagues when they come under attack.

The GRA has repeatedly raised concerns about the number of its members being assaulted and has called for minimum mandatory sentencing for persons convicted of assaulting emergency responders.

In the first 11 months of last year, a total of 646 garda members were subjected to violence of assault in the course of their duties, with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris telling an Oireachtas Justice Committee previously that this was of huge concern.
The men were arrested after a consignment of approximately 105kgs of herbal cannabis was detected

Two men have been arrested after more than 2m worth of cannabis was seized in Dublin earlier today.

Both men, aged in their 30s, were arrested and are currently detained in a West Dublin Garda station.

Gardai said that an intelligence-led operation was put in place involving the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) and Revenue Customs Service.

This followed the detection of a consignment of approximately 105kgs of herbal cannabis, with an estimated market value of 2,100,000, which was seized in Dublin.

Two males, aged in their 30s, were arrested by An Garda Siochana following the seizure and are currently being detained in a West Dublin Garda Station under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996, gardai said.

Investigations are ongoing at present.
Adam Ali (43) used his car to drive vulnerable young girls to various locations where he assaulted them

This is the vile taxi driver who has been convicted of raping two children 20 years ago.

Adam Ali (43) used his car to drive vulnerable young girls to various locations where he assaulted them in Rotherham.

A National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation revealed how Ali, known as Razwan Razaq at the time of his offending, carried out his attacks between 2002 and 2004.

At the time Alis victims, who are now in their 30s, were scared to report what he did to them.

But the NCA said they have bravely spoken out after officers identified they were victims and contacted them.

One was only 12-years-old when she was introduced to Ali by a friend. Ali routinely drove the girl to his house in Bramley where he sexually abused her, and raped her multiple times.

Ali and his friends groomed a second, 13-year-old by plying her with drink and drugs over the course of several months.

One night, Ali offered to drive her home under the pretence of being concerned for the girls welfare.

However, Ali raped her part way through the journey.

NCA officers taking part in Operation Stovewood  the single largest law enforcement investigation into non-familial child sexual abuse in the UK  contacted the women after identifying they may have been victims.

Officers specially trained to support victims of sexual abuse listened to the womens accounts and gathered corroborating evidence.

Ali was serving an 11-year prison sentence for rape of a girl and two counts of sexual activity with another girl, both in Rotherham, following an investigation by South Yorkshire Police.

When he was released from prison in April 2023, officers were notified that he planned to travel to Pakistan.

Concerned that Ali would not return to the UK, investigators worked to gather evidence required for charges to be authorised.

Officers subsequently arrested Ali on 18 May 2023 and charged him the following day, after which he was remanded in custody.

This week he was found guilty of seven sexual offences at Sheffield Crown Court.

Senior Investigating Officer Stuart Cobb, of the NCA, said the victims showed immense courage in recounting Alis horrendous abuse.

I cannot imagine how difficult it was for them to relive their experiences during the trial, yet they gave brave and eloquent accounts.

This case highlights how the National Crime Agency ensures child abusers face justice, no matter how much time has passed since they committed their crimes.

Liz Fell, Specialist Prosecutor for the CPS, said: Adam Ali purposefully targeted his victims with the view that he could exploit them for sex.

Child sexual abuse is a traumatising crime, the devastating impact of which can last a lifetime. We would like to commend the victims in this case for coming forward and reporting what happened to them. It is because of their evidence that we were able to secure a conviction and bring their abuser to justice.

I hope this conviction sends a clear message that the CPS, working alongside law enforcement, will relentlessly pursue justice and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, whenever that abuse takes place.

I encourage any victims of child sexual abuse and sexual violence to report the crimes committed against them to the police. It is never too late to seek justice.

Ali is due to be sentenced on 25 June.

Operation Stovewood began in 2014 and identified more than 1,100 victims. So far NCA officers have made more than 200 arrests and secured 28 convictions, with more than 50 active investigations ongoing.
John Lyne from Woodlawn Park, Ballysimon Road, was driving on Highway 22 near Calgary when he was tragically killed on April 30

A Limerick family has set up a fundraising appeal to give back to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust after they helped bring back a loved one from Canada.

John Lyne from Woodlawn Park, Ballysimon Road, was driving on Highway 22 near Calgary when he was tragically killed on April 30.

It followed a collision between Johns vehicle and another vehicle in which an older woman died and a male passenger suffered serious injuries.

Even though the skilled carpenter had moved to Canada ten years ago, he had always thought of Limerick as home and remained in close contact with his friends and family.

According to Limerick Leader he had been working for PCL Construction in Sparwood, Canada.

His family have now raised more than 20,000 of a 25,000 target.

Johns family said: We now understand more than ever the profound pain of losing a child. To any parent facing this unimaginable loss, our hearts ache with you.

John's absence leaves a gigantic void in our lives. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of John's close friends who have been a source of strength during this incredibly difficult time. Also to PCL construction and their employees who have supported the family from the very beginning.

They said that they will forever be grateful to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, who within 24 hours of being contacted by the Lyne family, had put them in touch with an international funeral director and began the process of bringing John home.

The family said: Their compassion and the incredible network they've built allowed us to focus on grieving John's loss without the overwhelming burden of repatriation. This trust is a true testament to Kevin's memory and the unfaltering spirit of his parents.

While the loss of John has left us in despair, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust gave us a spark of hope, when we needed it most. They helped us navigate the darkest waters of grief, and we are eternally grateful.

John travelled lots and had such a zest for life and genuine connection with people from all over the world. His last flight, AC800 from Toronto to Dublin Ireland, would not have been possible without Colin, Eithne, and the trust.

We pray that no family ever experiences such a loss. But knowing that people like this exist to support others in their darkest hour makes the world a little brighter, the family said.

They are now asking people to support the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust through their GoFundMe appeal here
Michael Cuddihy (76) died in November 2023, nearly a year after the tragic death of sixteen year old Aoife Johnson in December 2022

A review has been ordered in to the care of a man who died from sepsis late last year after being discharged from University Hospital Limerick.

Michael Cuddihy (76) died in November 2023, nearly a year after the tragic death of sixteen year old Aoife Johnson in December 2022, also from sepsis at the Limerick hospital, following almost sixteen hours on a trolley.

Mr Cuddihy attended to the hospital's emergency department on November 20 last but was discharged within 24 hours .

He died two days later from sepsis as a result of a trapped gallstone.

A spokesman for University Hospital Limerick confirmed this evening that the deceased man's care is being examined under the HSEs Incident Management Framework.

He said that a preliminary assessment has been completed and shared with the family. A number of recommendations were made and additional improvements identified following the meetings with the Cuddihy family.

The recommendations from the preliminary assessment have been implemented in full.

The hospital expressed its deepest condolences to Mr Cuddihy's family "on their unimaginable loss. We are conscious that there are no words we can express to console them at this time".

On November 20 last, Mr Cuddihy felt unwell at home after suffering vomiting and severe pain.

His wife Aine called for an ambulance which took him to the Limerick hospital, the most overcrowded in the country.

Later that day, he was told he had a stomach bug and was free to go home but he asked to stay overnight as he was not feeling well, according to a report to be aired on RTE Investigates.

Despite his condition deteriorating during the night, he was discharged the following day.

Hospital notes seen by RTE Investigates show that having asked not to be discharged from hospital, Mr Cuddihy was moved to another section of the emergency department where overnight he was found vomiting by nursing staff.

The notes also record that he had a raised temperature, but it appears there was no medical follow-up.

His family said a scan was carried out on his heart and it was ruled out as a problem.

He was on a trolley for 18 hours without being assessed by a doctor. After discharge, he continued to suffer at home until his death on November 23.

The post-mortem results confirmed that a trapped gallstone had caused an infection, leading to sepsis and Michael's untimely death. The family met with the hospital in January and senior medical staff said they wished they could "rewind the clock".

His family claim that staff told them that the day Mr Cuddihy presented they were told of a shortage of 20 nurses.

However, in a statement this evening the hospital said there was an initial deficit of five nurses in the emergency department.

A number of staff were redeployed, leaving an actual gap of two nurses in emergency on that date.

Inspectors from the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) visited the hospital on the day of Mr Cuddihy's attendance and in a report concluded while improvements were evident, including additional staff, patient risk was still not fully managed and it desperately needed more beds.

The hospital at the time had a risk assessment for sepsis in place but a more advanced version was still not implemented. This was later introduced last January.

According to RTE Investigates, the family was told at their meeting that a wider review was not necessary as all the deficits were identified in the preliminary assessment and another investigation would not garner any further information.

However, the family were contacted this week to say a full review would now take place.
Monaghan woman Mandy Kelly hasnt seen her sons Zayn (5) and Kareem (3) since 2022

Mandy Kelly and her children, Zayn (5) and Kareem (3). Ms Kelly hasn't seen the boys since 2022

The Taoiseach has written to an Irish mother pledging his support in reuniting her with her two sons after they were abducted by her Egyptian husband.

Mandy Kelly from Monaghan was on holiday in Cairo, Egypt, two years ago when her husband Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed locked her in an apartment and took the children away in a car.

He told Ms Kelly the day before they were due to return home that he was keeping their two young sons, both born in Ireland, in Egypt.

Zayn, who is now aged five, and his three-year-old brother Kareem have had no contact with their mother since.

Ms Kelly said her estranged husband has requested 500,000 for the return of her children, and she has spent around 35,000 in legal fees trying to get them back.

It came totally out of the blue and thats when this nightmare began.

Egypt is not signed up to the 1980 Hague Convention, which aims to protect children from international abduction by a parent using diplomatic pressure to ensure the prompt return of the child.

Ms Kelly has been pleading with the Irish Government to intervene in her case for the past two years.

At a recent event in Monaghan, she handed Taoiseach Simon Harris a letter outlining her plight.

In a written reply, Mr Harris has vowed to do all he can to help her bring her children home to Ireland.

Mr Harris wrote: I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the hardship you and your family have been forced to endure over the last two years. I want to assure you that the Government, through the Department of Foreign affairs and the Department of Justice, remains committed to assisting you to the greatest extent possible.

The Taoiseach acknowledged Ms Kellys frustration with the progress relating to her case.

He added: I want to reiterate my support to reunite you with Zayn and Kareem at the earliest opportunity as we work together to secure their safe return.

Ms Kelly met her husband in 2013 when they were both working in Dubai. The couple returned to Ireland in 2017 and got married.

The family settled in Dundalk, Co Louth, with their two sons.

Ms Kelly had previously met her husbands family when she visited Egypt in 2014 and as they prepared to bring their children to meet their grandmother in February 2022, she had no reason to think that it would turn into a mothers worse nightmare.

We were supposed to come back to Ireland on March 12, 2022, but he told me the day before that he wasnt going back to Ireland, she said.

It came totally out of the blue and thats when this nightmare began.

Ms Kelly reported the kidnapping of her children to Dundalk garda station and has been waiting since 2022 for the Director of Public Prosecutions to issue an international arrest warrant for her husbands arrest.

She is due met with the Ombudsman for Children today to highlight her case.
Few people know the secrets of the plain-looking concrete building

The NI Regional War Room was one of only 13 of its type established across the UK

The nuclear bunker dating from the Cold War period was constructed in 1952-53

Nestled in a secluded site within a residential area off Malone Road in south Belfast, is a plain, unassuming structure  a nuclear bunker dating from the Cold War period

Hidden from view in a quiet Belfast street, Northern Irelands oldest nuclear bunker is about to get a 1.8m makeover.

Few people know the secrets of the plain-looking concrete building at the junction of Mount Eden Park and Malone Hill Park in suburban south Belfast.

However, if Northern Ireland had suffered a nuclear bomb attack during the Cold War, the building might have been the only one left standing.

It was built to protect and shelter political and military leaders as they dealt with what would have been an unprecedented crisis.

The nuclear bunker dating from the Cold War period was constructed in 1952-53

The Cold War refers to the tensions between the US and the Soviet Union during the period after World War II.

It was seen as a battle between capitalism and communism.

For many years, there were fears the divisions between the global superpowers could lead to nuclear bomb attacks.

With the UK being a close ally of the US, it was believed the UK, including Northern Ireland, was high up on the list of potential Russian targets.

This was the background to a meeting of the British government in the early 1950s at which it was decided to build 13 Regional War Rooms across the UK.

The peaceful surroundings of Mount Eden Park in Belfast was chosen as the location for Northern Irelands war room

The NI Regional War Room was one of only 13 of its type established across the UK

as it could be easily reached by Stormont politicians and military leaders in the event of an attack.

Work on the building started in 1952 and was completed the following year.

The bunker was made up of two floors and had five-foot thick concrete walls, a reinforced concrete roof

and blast-proof door.

This was all designed to ensure the bunker could withstand a direct hit by a massive bomb.

Inside, the layout consisted of a central double-height map room with smaller rooms clustered around this.

The secret bunker

The rooms included communication equipment, a generator, accommodation and a canteen.

The cost of building the bunker was around 70,000 and when completed it was able to accommodate around 45 people regarded as important enough for Northern Irelands response after a nuclear attack.

It seems the rest of the population were to be left to fend for themselves.

Those taking refuge in the Belfast bunker would have been able to communicate with people in the other 12 war rooms as the UK dealt with the impact of a nuclear attack.

The south Belfast bunker remained in operation as a war room until the mid-1960s.

Since then, it has been used for a number of purposes and most recently has been a storage facility for the Northern Ireland Court Service.

However, the Sunday World has learned the bunker, which is now managed by the Department for Communities, is set for a new lease of life.

A major refurbishment of the building will see it become a store for archives belonging to the Historical Environment Record of Northern Ireland (HERONI), formerly known as the National Monuments and Buildings Record for Northern Ireland.

HERONI holds information on all elements of Northern Irelands historic environment, including databases, written records, maps, photographs and digital material.

The tender for the refurbishment of the bunker, which is expected to take nine months to complete, estimates the cost to be 1.8m.

When the Sunday World visited Mount Eden Park this week, one resident said many people were unaware of its historical significance.

It doesnt really look like much, does it? he said.

history

If you walked past and knew nothing about the history, you would just think it was some kind of electricity substation.

Theres no indication of what the building was built for, but its good to hear it is going to be refurbished and put to good use.

A massive bunker was built in Armaghs Gough Barracks and another large bunker was built in Ballymena.

Around 50 smaller nuclear bunkers, which could hold up to three people, were built across Northern Ireland.

Nestled in a secluded site within a residential area off Malone Road in south Belfast, is a plain, unassuming structure  a nuclear bunker dating from the Cold War period

In December 1983, activists with the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament broke into the Mount Eden Park bunker.

They took photographs of map which showed mushroom-shaped symbols at six locations in Ireland.

It was believed these symbols were used to highlight potential nuclear targets in Ireland.

The pinpointed areas in Northern Ireland were Belfast, Ballycastle and Ballykelly.

In the Republic, symbols had been placed in areas of Donegal, Waterford and Cork.
Brandon John Rainey appeared via video link from Maghaberry Prison dressed in a grey sweat top and grey tracksuit bottoms

Family and friends of murder victim Chloe Mitchell arrive at the court. Photo by Jonathan Porter /Press Eye

Family and friends of Chloe Mitchell arrive at Lagonside court, Friday, May 24, 2024. Chloe Mitchell was murdered in Ballymena in June 2023. Brandon Rainey of Ballymena appeared at Belfast Crown Court, Friday charged with murder and attempting to prevent the burial of the 21-year-old. Picture by Peter Morrison

Family and friends of Chloe Mitchell arrive at Lagonside court, Friday, May 24, 2024. Chloe Mitchell was murdered in Ballymena in June 2023. Brandon Rainey of Ballymena appeared at Belfast Crown Court, Friday charged with murder and attempting to prevent the burial of the 21-year-old. Picture by Peter Morrison

Family and friends of Chloe Mitchell at Laganside court, Friday, May 24, 2024. Chloe Mitchell was murdered in Ballymena in June 2023. Brandon Rainey of Ballymena appeared at Belfast Crown Court, Friday charged with murder and attempting to prevent the burial of the 21-year-old. Picture by Peter Morrison

A Co Antrim man has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Chloe Mitchell in Ballymena last year.

Brandon John Rainey appeared via video link from Maghaberry Prison dressed in a grey sweat top and grey tracksuit bottoms.

Watching on at Belfast Crown Court were members of the Mitchell family.

They arrived wearing white "Justice for Chloe" t-shirts and carried photographs of the young woman as well as banners with the same message.

When the first count of murdering Ms Mitchell (21) on June 3, 2023, an offence aggravated by domestic abuse, was put to him by the court clerk, Rainey answered: "Not guilty''.

Rainey (27), formerly of James Street in Ballymena, further pleaded not guilty to attempting to prevent the lawful and decent burial of her body on the same date.

Mr Justice O'Hara asked Rainey's defence team to outline the issues in the case.

Brandon Rainey (left) is accused of killing Chloe Mitchell (right)

Defence counsel Neil Connor KC said: "The primary focus is the state of mind of the defendant at the material time.

"We have already instructed an expert consultant psychiatrist to provide a report. A request was made for a face-to-face consultation with Mr Rainey but that proved to be a stumbling block in so far as the expert's continued involvement in the case.

"As a result of that, my instructing solicitor has engaged with a second expert consultant psychiatrist in the last number of days and he has accepted instructions.

"There has been extreme difficulty in finding an expert in this jurisdiction as the accused has previous involvement with Knockbracken Healthcare Clinic.

"A number of consultant psychiatrists in this jurisdiction have had involvement with that institution. He has been in mental health hospitals for some considerable time.

"Mr Rainey was discharged from Knockbracken a relatively short time before his alleged involvement in these offences.

"For that reason we thought it best to seek the services of an expert from outside this small jurisdiction.''

Chloe Mitchell.

Mr Justice O'Hara asked was the defendant not denying the alleged acts and if mental health is the issue.

Mr Connor replied: "I can't state that, My Lord. My wording that I have chosen has been carefully chosen. Our primary concentration is on his state of mind at that time. I am not in a position to put it any higher than that at this stage.''

He added that his instructing solicitor has already obtained Rainey's GP notes and records which "run to 1,500 pages which gives an indication of the extent of Mr Rainey's involvement with various institutions in this jurisdiction''.

Addressing family members and friends who packed into the public gallery, Mr Justice O'Hara explained that the accused's defence team would seek a psychiatric report and will then decide if that is to be relied upon or not.

He said that if is to be relied upon, the report will be shared with senior prosecution counsel David Russell KC and Kate McKay BL who will then decide if they need to engage the services of an expert psychiatrist to examine the defendant and prepare a report.

Mr Justice O'Hara said he would review the case on Friday, September 20.

Family and friends of murder victim Chloe Mitchell arrive at Belfast Laganside Court. Photo by Jonathan Porter /Press Eye.

The senior judge added: "I am sure for Ms Mitchell's family and friends this seems terribly slow and protracted but this is what happens. We will move things along as quickly as possible as we can.''

Following the hearing, Ms Mitchells friends and family gathered outside the court building holding up a banner and a flag.

Ms Mitchells remains were found days after she went missing last June.

She was last seen alive on CCTV in Ballymena town centre in the early hours of June 3, 2023 and a search operation was conducted.

Detectives investigating her disappearance then launched a murder investigation after human remains were discovered in the Co Antrim town.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is contacting 1,480 individuals to advise that their personal information held on the Driver Licence Register - DLR or Motor Vehicle Register - MVR has been illegally accessed.

The information accessed includes customers full name and address, or the status, conditions and endorsements on their driver licences.

NZTA was advised in late March that a motor vehicle trader with authorised access to the DLR and the MVR had their account compromised.

NZTA has been investigating to ascertain the scale and nature of the breach and is now contacting all potentially affected individuals with advice on how they may be affected, what support is available and what if any action they should take.

"We have also notified the New Zealand Police and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner," says an NZTA spokesperson.

"While NZTA is not able to provide further comment or release detailed information while investigations into the illegally accessed information are ongoing, we can confirm that the illegally accessed information was gained through MotorWeb, a third-party on-line portal, after the identity of a motor vehicle trader and its staff was used to create a fraudulent account to access information held on the MVR and DLR.

"MotorWeb immediately cancelled the account when they discovered its existence and advised NZTA of the privacy breach.

We take our responsibilities for the protection of personal information extremely seriously, and we apologise to the individuals affected by this incident and for any inconvenience or distress it has caused, says NZTA Regulatory Group Manager Brent Alderton.

NZTA already had work underway to improve privacy protection, and following this incident we have focussed specifically on reviewing the third-party access to our systems to strengthen the protection of the information we hold. MotorWeb and the motor vehicle trader are both assisting NZTA with our investigation.
A resident of the streets around Hilldale Reserve in Kawerau says a cheaper and quicker solution is needed to its flooding problem.

The council has yet to decide whether it go ahead with a repair plan that isnt pleasing all the residents.

John Whitehead spoke at Kawerau District Councils submissions hearing on Wednesday, saying two years after the flooding, some of the affected residents were losing hope in life.

He says they were mostly older people, and some were quite ill.

Weve got people there who cant live in their homes because parts of their homes are unlivable. They cant get them fixed because theyre waiting for their insurance companies to pay, and the insurance company wont pay because theyre waiting for the council to make a decision.

The streets around Hardie Avenue were subject to flooding during the persistent rainfall over the summer of 2022 to 2023. The area also flooded during the 2017 ex-cyclone Debbie, which caused the major Edgecumbe flooding event.

The council is budgeting $250,000 for a $1 million Hardie Avenue dewatering project and has applied for Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Authority funding for the remaining $750,000. The project includes the use of swales, drainage pipes and concrete u-channels.

Kawerau District Council has proposed a project to fix the flooding around Hilldale Reserve which is estimated to cost $1 million. Photo: Supplied.

Mayor Faylene Tunui says the council had been engaging in a very close and intimate conversation with the residents at Hardie Avenue and Owen, Emme Allan and Julian roads.

Weve got our Red Bands on and weve walked that whenua, so we can see it, touch it, feel it ... so, we can look at ways we can help the families that live there.

A question about how council should act if the Waka Kotahi application is not successful was put to the community in councils Annual Plan 2024-2025 consultation document.

John says the whole project needed reassessing.

The project you are proposing is half the length it was before. It only helps half the people. It takes care of surface water not ground water.

He suggested an alternative approach of dewatering the reserve as a cheaper and more effective option.

We need some action now, says John.

John is also one of the 38 submitters opposed to the council spending $150,000 to investigate the viability of a secure asbestos containment site.

The council has already spent $50,000 in the past two years on plans and costings for the site.

"From history, and work in that area, every 10 or 20 years regulations change.

He says it was no reflection on the councils competence to manage the site.

If central government makes a change and wants that dump moved, whos liable? You are. I wouldnt go there. Wouldnt touch it with a barge pole.

A council spokesperson says council wished to thank all the community for engaging throughout the consultation process and all our submitters, acknowledging those who took the opportunity to speak in person to the mayor and elected members.

"Council will received a report that analyses all the submissions at next Wednesdays meeting where they will consider all submissons and deliberate on the feedback."

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 3, Ohaupo in South Waikato

Police say SH3 is closed between Airport Road and Kapiaki Road following the crash.

"The crash involved two vehicles and was reported to Police at 1.52pm," says a police spokesperson.

"Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

"Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays."

At the scene?

Phone 0800SUNLIVE or email newsroom@thesun.co.nz
Alfonso Torices Madrid Friday, 24 May 2024, 12:11 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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The lynx population on the Iberian peninsula has doubled in just three years. There are now 2,021 specimens of this native feline roaming freely throughout the southern half of these two countries. Iberian lynx can be found in the grasslands, marshes and mountains of Andalucia, Extremadura, Castilla-La Mancha, Levante and southern Portugal.

This tally means three things, and all three are positives. Firstly, that the lynx is finally beginning to break free from the clutches of extinction. If nothing goes wrong then, in a few years, the species will be fully established in its own natural habitat. Such a recovery is the result of a successful, scientific operation in which, unusually, everyone involved - institutions, experts and society - have been rowing hard and pulling in the same direction to make it happen.

"We can be optimistic", concluded the report on the conservation status in 2023 of this protected animal, drawn up by the Iberian lynx working group, which is coordinated by Spain's Ministry of Ecological Transition and includes experts, regional representatives and Portuguese officials. The lynx, after being on the brink of extinction just 20 years ago, is now seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, although the recovery work, according to the specialists, needs another 15 years or so of effective progress to pull the species off the endangered list.

Andalucia and Castilla-La Mancha account for 70% of lynx releases, but these felines now inhabit territory in 14 locations

The data could not be more encouraging. All the objectives set by the experts to try for population recovery are being steadily met, so the lynx's conservation status should reach 'favourable' levels before 2040.

The population now exceeds 2,000 for the first time since reliable data have been available. This is 21 times more lynxes in just 20 years than the 94 lynxes surviving on the verge of extinction back in 2002 in their last refuges in the Donana national park and the Andujar mountains of Jaen. This was before the ruling authorities and naturalists conspired to save the species. The figure is fast approaching the 3,000 to 3,500 specimens needed to be able to breathe easy.

So lynx numbers are not only increasing, they are increasing at an accelerated rate. It took more than 15 years to reach the first 1,000. The second 1000 has been surpassed in just three years from the 1,100 back in 2020. The reason is that, since 2019, the rate of re-population has exceeded 20% per year, as shown by the fact that last year alone the breeding packs had 722 more cubs.

More than 400 breeding females

The second important fact is that the number of healthy, free-roaming, breeding females is now 406, some 80 more than just a year ago, an increase of 25% in twelve months. Their birth rate is almost two births per lynx (1.77) and they are getting closer and closer to the target of 750 breeding females (the figure considered necessary to be able to protect the species).

The third positive is an objective in the process of being achieved: stable and widespread territories for the lynx. The population nuclei frequented by these native felines have now reached a total of fourteen different areas, spread over four regions of southern Spain and the south of Portugal. Only sixteen stable and connecting territories are needed, according to the specialists, to provide security for the lynx. The collective triumph lies not only in the recovery of the lynx population, but also in the fact that the free-roaming individuals have returned to colonise parts of their traditional habitats. In addition to the two locations that were their last stronghold (Donana and Andujar), lynxes have returned to both sides of the grassy slopes of the Sierra Morena (the ones in Andalucia and those in La Mancha), the Montes de Toledo, the Matachel valley in Extremadura and the Guadiana valley in Portugal. These areas have been joined by the Sierra Arana, Valdecanas-Ibores and Ortiga (Extremadura), the Tierras Altas de Lorca (Murcia) and the Campos de Hellin (Albacete). New areas are already being studied and prepared due to the interest of several autonomous regions in joining this project.

Last Christmas there were 1,730 lynxes in Spain, 86% of the total, and 291 in Portugal. The two regional powerhouses for lynx in Spain are Andalucia, with 755 felines (43.6% of the total), and Castilla-La Mancha, with 715 specimens (41.3%). Only in two other regions in Spain have lynx settled down: Extremadura (253) and Murcia (7).

An exemplary partnership

The year was 2002 when, finally, everyone got together to pull their weight for the lynx. They started out with very modest objectives, but these gained in ambition over time. The Ministry of Ecological Transition, the Portuguese government, the Junta for Andalucia, and later the regional governments of La Mancha and Extremadura, the naturalists from WWF (World Wildlife Fund) and the European Union joined forces and pooled resources to make this happen, leaving aside egos and political persuasions.

The joint effort allowed for the creation of four captive breeding centres and the implementation of a carefully studied and controlled strategy to ensure that the subsequent reintroduction of these young specimens into the wild would be a success. Since the release of juveniles from these centres in Huelva, Caceres, Jaen and Silva (Portugal) began in 2011, some 372 specimens have been reintroduced into their natural habitat. As part of this drawn-out task, the breeding specialists and political leaders have also had to count on the collaboration of several hundred landowners and hunting associations. The Iberian lynx rescue programme will go down in history as a global success in the recovery of an endangered big cat breed.
Myrto Kaltsidou Marbella Friday, 24 May 2024, 13:58 | Updated 15:34h. Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Marbella resident Leonie Henry has had to get used to her fair share of change, from leaving post-war China as a young child, to needing a translator on starting school in the States. As a young adult, she embarked on her "African adventure" before moving to Portugal to breed Lusitano horses with her husband. Despite living her later life with a degenerative eye condition that has left her with "very poor" vision, she emphasises the importance of accepting our own circumstances and making the most out of the cards we are dealt.

Leonie was born in Shanghai in 1937, the same year that Japan invaded China in the Second Sino-Japanese War. As the only child of a Chinese father and a French mother, she spent much of her early childhood hiding from bombs in paddy fields and trying to avoid the Japanese military. During this time she witnessed several atrocities: from laying eyes on a dead baby that had been killed by a bomb to watching a top Japanese officer take his own life by 'hara-kiri', a form of Japanese ritualistic suicide. She even recalls the moment when, from her home in Qingdao city, on the Yellow Sea coast, the sky became "illuminated" when America dropped the bomb on Japan in 1945.

Zoom As a child with her Chinese father and French mother. SUR

But in some ways, she had a relatively normal upbringing: "Like all children, I played, I loved nature, I used to like watching things like glow flies." In particular, she credits her parents with keeping her very safe during the war - she was "never hungry" , and speaks highly of her mother, who she thought brave, as a "fantastic cook" and "very good homemaker". Having never attended school in China, Leonie only knew a few words in Chinese and the family spoke French at home.

Following China's liberation in September 1945, the country fell into political turmoil and her father no longer saw a future for the family there. Consequently, they relocated to the States in 1947, when Leonie was ten years old. Her father had secured a position with the UN in New York and Leonie started school in Long Island. She remembers feeling "a bit lost and overwhelmed" on her first day - she even had another student translating for her at the start  but ultimately demonstrated a great deal of adaptability: "I accepted it. That was my condition," she explains.

After attending school for some time in Manhattan, the family moved up north to Maine, on the border with Canada. Her mother, who did not speak very good English and had been away from France for so long, had sought to reconnect with the French-speaking community. This industrial area, with plenty of shoe shops and mills, as Leonie remembers it, was where she had a "very good high school experience" and she carries with her fond memories of skating on the frozen lake near her home.

Following her parents' separation, Leonie and her mother went to Paris. This was only a brief stay, however, as her mother knew some friends  a French military officer and his family  who needed a governess for their young children. They were stationed in Tunisia, at a time when the French were very active in Africa.

From Tunisia to Timbuktu

Her "African adventure", as Leonie calls it, began in 1957, when she took up this role in Tunisia's desert south. It was an "interesting" time for her, which she spent going to the beach, meeting new people, and discovering Africa. But her most special memory happened during her administrative position at the US embassy in Tunis, where she met the American government official who would become her husband, Rex Henry.

The couple then moved to the suburbs of Rabat in Morocco, where they would spend six years exploring this "larger" and more "modern" city. By this time, they had two boys: Mark Henry (Tunisia, 1960) and Jack Henry (Morocco, 1964).

Moving across the Sahara, the family lived in Kaduna, in northern Nigeria; in Chad, in the heart of Africa; and in Dakar, Senegal's coastal capital. Leonie also travelled for fun, to places such as Timbuktu, where she recalls watching "the most glorious sunset": "The sky was red... It was a beautiful show of nature" that "stays engraved on my memory," she says.

Out of all the African countries she called home, Chad was her favourite, despite it being "even more remote" than what she had previously encountered. She describes her time there as an "adventure" and the lifestyle really "appealed" to her: she loved the sense of "community" and the local music, which was "lovely to watch and experience". Throughout her time in Africa, she also enjoyed the local dishes, namely Moroccan couscous and a Senegalese fish dish prepared with Nile perch.

When asked about what it was like to raise two "rambunctious" boys who appeared to be constantly on the move, Leonie says that there were "no problems": they were "flexible", made friends easily and engaged in all sorts of "escapades" with the neighbours' children.

After leaving Africa in 1974, they were on home leave in the States, but with her husband's early retirement, they desired a change of scenery. Having made the coastal journey from Marseille to Marbella several times, they had purchased a plot of land in the Spanish town, where construction began on their home. "We liked the place," Leonie says. They thought the area, which was "always very cosmopolitan", a "quiet" and "lovely" location with "very nice homes". Their sons, who were teenagers at the time, went to the French school in Malaga.

Leonie's eldest son, Mark Henry, went on to join the Air Force, where he was sent to the Philippines, before returning to study Chemistry and work for the US Department of Health and Human Services. Her youngest son, Jack Henry, became a fashion designer and opened an atelier in Paris, with designs exported all the way to Japan.

Lusitano breeders

Leonie has always loved animals, especially horses  an interest she shared with her husband, who bought his wife her first horse: "Some people always had a dog. We always had horses," she says. "That was our passion." During her first few years in Marbella, she participated in dressage classes at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera. In 1979, they moved to Portugal and became Lusitano horse breeders, a period when Marbella became their "hideaway in the summer". They stayed in Portugal until her husband's passing in 2010 and Leonie made a permanent move back to Marbella in 2021.

It was in the 70s when she was diagnosed with macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative eye disease for which there is no cure as of yet. But although it is a "really confining" condition, which has left Leonie with "very poor" vision, she says: "I have to accept it and move on."

When asked about this seemingly inspiring ease with which she adapts to new realities, evident in many of her new beginnings, she responds: "It's part of my character... Anything is possible if there's a will to do it." Her advice? "The main thing is to keep positive. Have faith. Never give up hope. Life can be a wonderful journey, but it's what we make of it."

Leonie is in the process of compiling a memoir and is currently seeking a publisher. "I hope it will give me some satisfaction and that I'll get some benefit out of sharing my experiences," she concludes.
Regina Sotorrio Malaga Friday, 24 May 2024, 11:44 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Javier Claudio makes it clear from the beginning of the conversation: "We are not just a young orchestra". That may be the most visible aspect of Promusica, what stands out the most, but behind the hundred or so musicians that make up this scheme there is much more. The orchestral project that he leads, a unique initiative in the music scene, is now fifteen years old. It consists of three string ensembles (children's, youth and chamber) in which each one feeds off the previous one, with around 350 concerts behind them, several international awards, seven albums, musical rescue work and numerous solidarity collaborations. For this and much more, Malaga City Council and the Malaga Music Foundation paid tribute to him on Thursday, with an act of recognition in the Salon de los Espejos in Malaga Town Hall.

The Orquesta de Camara Promusica was created in 2009 with students of advanced grade and graduates, thanks to the impulse of the Fundacion Musical de Malaga directed by Manuel Sanchez Benedito. A year later came the Youth Orchestra, for teenagers between 14 and 17 years of age; and the following year the circle was closed with the orchestra-school, for children from 6 years of age. Everything is linked: the main difference is that the more advanced musicians help in the training of the children, to the point that two musicians from the Chamber Orchestra, Beatriz Claudio and Pablo Parra, are the ones who carry the baton of the children's group. More than a hundred potential artistes have already passed through its ranks.

Javier Claudio finds it hard to believe that fifteen years have passed since that first concert in the Iglesia de la Concepcion with just seventeen musicians, "but the number of things we have done in this time is also incredible". The stories, anecdotes and milestones accumulate in his memory.

Growth

With the structure complete in 2011, the project began to grow, with ramifications that soon crossed borders. "We did it little by little, convincing people that this was interesting. It has taken a long time to demonstrate the value of the project and how good it is to be part of it", admits the violinist and teacher from Malaga, who is also professor of violin at the Conservatorio Superior de Musica de Malaga.

Today, the three orchestras have been joined by an independently operating parents' choir and seven albums have been released. "Who can say that they have an album recorded when they were 9 years old and it's on download portals all over the world? Some of them have recovered forgotten or never released pieces by composers such as the Suite Espanola by Enrique de Ulierte, the Danzas Antiguas by Emilio Lehmberg from Malaga and the serenata Tanger by Joaquin Gonzalez Palomares, also from Malaga. "The priority is to highlight the value of Malaga". That is why each prize in its Young Soloists of Malaga competition - for musicians born or resident in the province - bears the name of a musician from Malaga: Salvador de Alva, Regino Martinez, Antonio Campos, Joaquin Gonzalez Palomares...

Zoom The founding musicians of the orchestra in 2009. SUR

Their talent has also been appreciated abroad. The Chamber Orchestra has won first prize at festivals in Prague, Vienna, Florence and Bratislava; and the Joven Orquesta Promusica has been recognised at the Concurso Musica Viva de Roquetas and also in Vienna and Bratislava. This year they will compete in the Eurochestries Festival in France, with concerts in the city of Niort. There they will perform dances by Emilio Lehmberg and zarzuelas (Spanish operas) composed by the Cabas family, composers from Malaga. In the future they will be performing in Washington, as part of an international exchange programme that they have already carried out with ensembles from Andujar, Seville, Cuenca and Lisbon. And this summer, as has become a tradition, the Asociacion Promusica de Malaga is organising a music campus (from 23 to 26 June) in Torremolinos.

The orchestral project also has a regular season at the Sala Fundacion Unicaja Maria Cristina, where it performs everything from great works of the classical repertoire to soundtracks, incorporating rap, ballet and theatre.

The orchestra has been chosen to take part in the EU-sponsored 'Metamorphoses' programme, which promotes the integration of new technologies in teaching and musical activities. Together with musicians from Italy, France, Greece and Poland, Promusica will perform the opera 'Orfeo' by C. Monteverdi in the Caja Blanca on 7 June (7pm). And a day later (same place and venue), it will offer the audiovisual show 'Life in Ukraine'.
Lorena Cadiz Benalmadena Friday, 24 May 2024, 12:54 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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On 20 May 1972 the first amusement park in Spain threw open its doors. It was the park that transformed the concept of tourism on the Costa del Sol, putting a twist on the usual sun and beach set-up by promoting leisure activities to pursue as a family. On a 60,000 square-metre site in Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmadena, Tivoli welcomed its first visitors on that day. To celebrate the opening a prestigious event was organised with representatives from local business and ruling authorities, including Enrique Bolin as Benalmadena's mayor (then also the youngest mayor in Spain).

Back in 1972 the entrance fee was five pesetas for children and ten pesetas for adults. For many years just to enter Tivoli was like opening the doors to a new world, especially for children. The Olsen family, the park owners at the time, had built a space there with 16 fountains, some of them with light and water shows, an artificial lake, large green spaces, buildings representing different parts of the world and restaurants with cuisine typical of many of those places.

For a long time, when the boom in music festivals was the stuff of dreams, Tivoli was the place to go for the big shows. For half a century the most outstanding artists of those times graced the stage of the auditorium there. Several generations will remember seeing the light aircraft pass over the beach, a long tarp banner fastened to the tail-fin, announcing the next scheduled performance.

Zoom Former workers cut a cake to celebrate the anniversary of Tivoli Former Tivoli staff, along with Benalmadena Mayor Juan Antonio Lara and several local councillors, gathered at the amusement park in Arroyo de la Miel on Monday to celebrate the 52nd anniversary of its opening. Although the group sang happy birthday and cut a celebratory cake, the anniversary was marred by the fact that Tivoli has now been closed for four years. With banners asking for the reopening of Tivoli and demanding that Tremon, the company that owns it, listens to the requests of the former staff, the workers said they wanted to convey a message of hope.

Sandokan

In 2004 the Olsen family sold the park to businessman Rafael Gomez Sanchez, alias Sandokan. Three years later he sold it to the Madrid-based Tremon Group as part of a property package valued at 370 million euros, which included seven million square metres spread throughout Andalucia.

But the deal did not go down as it should have. Sandokan, who believed that the acquisition had not been completed and took the matter to court for alleged non-payments by Tremon. This court fight led to a stalemate situation in that the ownership of Tivoli was assigned to Tremon, but the park continued to be managed by a company linked to Sandokan, the businessman from Cordoba, who was then sent to prison for five years in 2017 for non payment of taxes. Those years were when the park's debts really racked up, employees went on reduced hours contracts, even made redundant, and then, finally, the pandemic happened, which forced the park to close for a few months. Even so, in July and August 2020 it re-opened and, despite the circumstances, it proved to be a profitable summer season. But after those months it closed its doors once more, never again to open them to the public. This summer makes it four years since that closure.

Zoom One of Tivolis standard ways of advertising throughout its history. SUR

Still in good shape

Just two days before Tivoli turned 52, the park's workers were still checking on the place. They had faced a long legal battle that resulted in one setback after another for them. The final ruling was that they no longer have an employment relationship with Tivoli.

Still, they pass their time picking up the leaves that the dry, windy weather has been throwing to the ground inside the park. They grease the rides, go round cranking them up one by one so that they don't rust, clean the streets, feed the peacocks and keep watch 24 hours a day to ensure no one enters. They don't earn a single euro for this work, but they are aware of its importance. Nobody will be able to say that the park has no future, that it has collapsed, that it is abandoned, stripped bare, that it is no longer worth opening. The park looks in very good condition considering that it has not been operating for four years, and it is wholly thanks to this team.

New investors

Recently, at a meeting of the former staff to discuss Fogasa (the Department of Employment's wage guarantee fund for employees in, for example, bankruptcy cases) and the wages still owed them, the former owner Sandokan turned up to announce that the park is still his. The workers are no longer taken aback by what each new chapter in this soap opera throws at them - it has been hanging over their heads for such a long time, the same goes for all the people of Benalmadena.

It so happens that a court hearing is scheduled for July between Sandokan and Tremon to resolve their battle over the deal they signed all those 17 years ago. "We could write a book," say the park's workers. For months now several investors, both domestic and overseas, have also passed through Tivoli's gates. They are interested in taking over the amusement park and opening negotiations with Tremon. Yes, several companies are wanting to re-open the park, but months and years go by and everything remains the same. The current ruling party in Benalmadena town hall, upon entering power one year ago, took up a mediating role between the interested parties and Tremon.

Zoom Julio Iglesias with his daughter on stage at Tivoli. SUR

Last January Juan Antonio Lara as mayor gave categorical assurances that talks were progressing and that Tivoli would re-open as an amusement park before the end of his term of office. Meanwhile, the council has reached an agreement with Tremon to re-open the underground car park next to Tivoli, also owned by Tremon as part of the package of real estate assets that Sandokan sold the Madrid-based group way back in the day.

It also remains to be seen what will happen to the open-air car park located next to the underground car park and the amusement park, which until now has been a godsend for vehicles trying to park in Arroyo de la Miel. This too is owned by Tremon.
Javier Varela Madrid Friday, 24 May 2024, 10:27 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Abdoulaye Diop was a well-known personality in Palma de Mallorca. Especially since 2017 when, together with his friend Oumar M'bengue, the 45-year-old Senegalese man rescued a bather who had gone into the sea at Playa de Palma and was having trouble getting back to shore. On Thursday night he was once again in the spotlight for another misfortune with the worst possible ending. Abdoulaye Diop was one of the four victims who died in the collapse of a well-known Mallorca beach club.

So far, four people are confirmed to have died in the accident and 16 have been injured, several of them critically. According to initial information, three of the four dead are foreigners, two German women aged 20 and 30 who were in the club and had just arrived in Palma for a holiday, and Abdoulaye Diop, who lived in s'Arenal with Aoumar, with whom he worked as a nightclub doorman. The fourth victim is a 23-year-old woman who worked at the Medusa Beach Club.

AFP

One of Abdoulaye's and the worker's friends revealed the tragic news to the RTVE television cameras: "He was having a coffee because he used to come here when he came out of the gym and she worked in the shop", he said with his voice breaking.

Sixteen injured hospitalised

According to Palma de Mallorca town hall, five of the 16 injured are in a critical condition. According to eyewitnesses, there were numerous customers in the premises, many of them foreign holidaymakers, as the high tourist season has already begun in Playa de Palma.

The police homicide group and forensic experts are working to identify the 16 people injured to varying degrees in various hospitals in Mallorca. Meanwhile, six people remain admitted in the Son Llatzer Hospital, none of them in the intensive care unit. They are one patient with an anxiety crisis, two with minor head injuries and three with multiple traumatisms.

At the Son Espases hospital, meanwhile, a 26-year-old woman was admitted with chest trauma, aspiration pneumonia and facial injuries. She did not require admission to the ICU.
Rochester, N.Y.  Wegmans is facing a class action lawsuit over its store brand sunscreen, according to multiple reports.

The suit was filed earlier in May by Joelle Thomas of Irondequoit in state Supreme Court in Monroe County. The firm that filed the suit, Sheehan & Associates in Great Neck, is looking to represent anyone who bought the sunscreen in New York expecting it to be reef conscious, according to The Buffalo News.

Despite the labeling indicating its friendly to reefs, the sunscreen actually contains ingredients that are considered harmful to reef ecosystems, according to WROC in Rochester.

The product mentioned in the suit is Wegmans Brand Sport Broad Spectrum, according to the News.

The suit argues that labeling the sunscreen as reef conscious allows Wegmans to charge a premium price. But the product doesnt deliver on its promises, the suit states, according to WHEC in Rochester.

The suit is seeking monetary damages, along with costs and expenses, WROC said.

Defendants false and deceptive representations and omissions . . . that it would not cause harm to fragile and critical reef ecosystems and/or not cause environmental harm, are material in that they are likely to influence consumer purchasing decisions, the suit says, according to the News. This is because consumers prefer to buy products made of ingredients which do not cause detrimental effects on ecosystems like reefs and/or the environment, instead of having those ingredients replaced with others that cause such detrimental effects.

Wegmans said it is looking into the lawsuit and does not comment on pending litigation, the News said.

Wegmans, based in Rochester, has over 110 stores along the East Coast.

Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598
At half-past one on a sunny Sunday afternoon, May 30, 1869, the tolling of the bell in the old Market Hall alerted a large and growing crowd of Syracusans to the commencement of the citys first Decoration Day festivities.

The national observance of Decoration Day - which became known as Memorial Day after Americas involvement in the First World War - began in 1868.

Inspired by a number of annual local ceremonies, including in Waterloo, New York, General John A. Logan, Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, the nations largest veterans association, proclaimed that May 30 be set aside to honor the nearly 710,000 men that gave their lives to save the union and end slavery, by placing flowers and ribbons on the graves of the fallen.

Yet, in 2002, Yale Historian and Pulitzer Prize winner, David Blight, turned up evidence that this ritual went back even further. Blights research found several newspaper accounts and a photograph that indicated that on May 1, 1865, a group of about 10,000 Charlestonians, many of whom were formerly enslaved, staged a parade in an old racetrack in honor of the fallen Union soldiers who had given their lives for their freedom.

This historic act of gratitude was then lost to history.

Maj. General Henry Barnum stands with the flag of the storied NY 149th Volunteer Infantry. Barnum was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1889 for his bravery at the Battle of Lookout Mountain, TN. He is buried in Oakwood Cemetery.Courtesy of the Onondaga Historical Association

Thus, four years later, the nations most illustrious public figures gathered at Arlington National Cemetery, a site that, like the nation, was totally transformed by the war. Before the war, the 1,000 acres of Arlington Plantation was the home of U.S. Army Colonel Robert E. Lee and his wife, Mary Custis, the great-granddaughter of George and Martha Washington.

Now, some seven years after Lee resigned his command in the U.S. Army and took up arms against the United States, Lees confiscated property was the resting place for over 15,000 men.

To honor them, Maj. General James Garfield, a hero of the Battle of Shiloh, Congressman from Ohio, and future President of the United States, offered an oration before those gathered undertook the decoration of the graves of those men, as Garfield said, who had for love of countryaccepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.

Patriotic virtue was in ample supply in Central New York in the weeks after the Confederate shelling of Fort Sumter.

In response, President Lincoln called for 75, 000 volunteers to put down the nascent rebellion.

Onondaga County was one of the earliest and most enthusiastic recruitment centers in all of New York State, sending nearly 13,000 men into battle over the course of the sanguinary conflict.

As such, cemeteries across the county, particularly those in Syracuse, hold the mortal remains of thousands of Union soldiers.

Here in Syracuse, Decoration Day ceremonies were organized by an impressive group of local Union veterans, including Major General John Peck, a West Point graduate and Commander of the Department of the East; Major General Henry Barnum, who as a commander in the 149th NY Infantry, fought in numerous battles including Malvern Hill, Gettysburg, and Lookout Mountain; and Brevet Brigadier General, Gustavus Sniper, whose heroics during the siege of Petersburg earned him lasting fame and an equestrian statue on Syracuses north side.

These distinguished gentlemen called for their fellow citizens to gather together in Hanover Square and march in a grand procession to five of the citys burying grounds.

Behind the generals and other commanders acting as marshals for this patriotic parade, followed a detail of police, eighteen strong marching nine abreast.

The Syracuse City Band came next, playing dirges, giving way to the carriages carrying disabled veterans unable to march on their own; behind them, marched hundreds of veterans who had not lost their limbs in the cause of liberty.

In between this sea of blue woolen uniforms and the civilian marchers was the flower wagon holding the decorations to be placed that day.

The procession moved north up Salina Street to Pond Street and St. Josephs Cemetery (no longer extant), where Gen. Sniper entered to place flowers on twelve graves. From there, the parade continued down Lodi Street to Rose Hill Cemetery, where Col. Nicholas Grumbach visited the thirty graves there.

They continued on, laying flowers on the grave of Moses Rothschild in the Jewish cemetery, as the crowd made its way down to Renwick Ave. and the nineteen graves at St. Marys Cemetery, which were marked by Col. Silas Titus.

The procession continued down Renwick to the final destination, Oakwood Cemetery, where fifty-five headstones were decorated.

Among these was the grave of Charles Highgate, an 18-year-old mulatto from Syracuse who enlisted in the NY 185th Infantry commanded by General Sniper. Highgate died on April 2, 1865 from wounds sustained at Quaker Roads, Virginia, a week before Lees surrender.

The Soldiers and Sailors Plot in Oakwood under construction, 1894.Courtesy of the Onondaga Historical Association

Amidst the bucolic serenity at Oakwoods Dedication Valley, a crowd of nearly 8,000 people had gathered.

In a scene of sweet poetic justice, the Rev. Samuel J. May, a man burned in effigy in Hanover Square just a few years earlier for his outspoken support of abolition and equal rights, addressed this sea of humanity.

We pray thy Holy Spirt, May began, to impress this deeply on the hears of us allstanding over the graves of some of the many thousands in our land, who were brought to their untimely death by the signal iniquity of our nation.

May need not mention the word slavery. The assembled knew.

The tombstone of Jeremiah Hurst, Private, NY 149th Volunteer Infantry at Rose Hill Cemetery, Syracuse.Courtesy of the Onondaga Historical Association

He implored the heavens, O, God of the oppressed! Let not the cause of our late awful civil war ever be forgotten. May it be told to our children, and our childrens children to the latest generation; so that, however extended and powerful our Republic may hereafter become, she may never again trample upon the rights of human beings.

As he ended, he called the crowd to virtuous action. Let us not content ourselves with decorating their gravesmay we all adorn our own characters with those manly and womanly virtues which alone can give stability to our nation.

One Hundred Fifty-Five years later, the good Reverend Mays invocation and exhortation resounds in the ears of a grateful and anxious nation.

Robert Searings weekly articles are supported by the William G. Pomeroy Public History Media Series. To learn more about the William G. Pomeroy Foundations work to promote public history, visit wgpfoundation.org.
To the Editor:

People are often toughest on those who do the most. Maybe that tendency explains syracuse.coms editorial, Syracuse board sends wrong message on affordable housing. It represents a mindset thats contributed to the concentrated poverty crisis that plagues some city neighborhoods.

The city of Syracuse does not turn up its nose to affordable housing. In fact, its Syracuse that has and continues to welcome affordable housing for residents who need it, including those who come from all over Onondaga County.

The city has the most progressive zoning in Central New York. It not only allows affordable housing, its the only local zoning in the region that requires it as part of multi-unit residential development. The greater concern is restrictive housing legislation, policies and practices in the area, as CNY Fair Housing found its report, Exclusionary Zoning in Onondaga County.

The editorial is wrong to say Syracuse rejected an affordable housing project when the Board of Zoning Appeals actually only denied a request for a variance. Denying permission to be exempt from the rules does not equal rejection of a project. It means the development simply needs to meet the citys already permissive zoning code. The city has an obligation to its residents to ask hard questions about each project taking into consideration the composition and equitable distribution of housing.

Its inherently unfair to ask a city neighborhood to make sacrifices to meet the desired profit margin of the developer. And lets be clear: thats the impediment to proceeding. Not the BZA.

Syracuse.com is doing excellent reporting on housing needs related to Micron and regarding the citys new Syracuse Housing Strategy. Your editorial should have questioned why a developer believes its a better use of their time to try to avoid the rules of the city, rather than even consider a project in any other municipality. There is no city, town, or village in Central New York that does not have affordable and supportive housing needs. Yet Syracuse shoulders the majority of the responsibility for all.

We wholeheartedly agree with the syracuse.com editorial boards position that our community needs more quality affordable housing. Regrettably, the editorial sent a different message: suck it up, Syracuse. Our struggling residents across the region are yours to support.

Sharon Owens

Deputy Mayor

Michael Collins

Commissioner of Neighborhood and Business Development

City Hall

Syracuse

Related:

Syracuse needs affordable housing. Why is it resisting a big project in a poor neighborhood?

Dont let social service agencies gobble up affordable housing (Your Letters)

Decision on affordable housing was about us without us (Your Letters)
To the Editor:

Regarding your editorial, Syracuse board sends wrong message on affordable housing (May 19, 2024):

Projects like the proposed Helio building on Cortland Avenue make poverty worse. They are financially viable for the developers, but they are not economically viable for the community in the neighborhood. Systemically grouping and isolating the poor among the poor makes poverty harder to escape; it limits peoples access to opportunity and constrains the vision of the community.

Syracuse is not well positioned to address poverty or housing alone. The issues are clearly regional in nature and Syracuse carries the disproportionate burden of poverty and the accompanying lack of investment in housing. We have been the welcoming community, and we want to stay that way, but too often we undermine our neighborhoods by accommodating more and more poverty. Good decisions are rarely made from a position of desperation. We must have the resolve to resist projects of desperation. It is uncomfortable and may result in fewer housing units in the short term, but it is necessary to have stable, thriving neighborhoods that create wealth for residents in the long term.

Syracuse is leading to support housing strategies that cultivate economic inclusivity. We are the only community in Onondaga County that requires an affordable set aside in large new housing developments. This requirement aims to prevent downtown from becoming exclusive. This is a best practice that should be adopted by other villages, towns, and/or Onondaga County. The irony is that this threshold is largely irrelevant for neighborhoods in Syracuse that are suffering from high levels of concentrated poverty. There is no upper limit on the ability to further concentrate poverty.

Last, sometimes not having a bad project is good enough because the neighborhood still has the hope for better development down the road. Accommodating the Helio project at Cortland Avenue by granting zoning variances for additional density would be permanent and it would negatively impact the character of the neighboring parcels. The developer has the right to develop within the constraints of the current zoning. If their project isnt financially viable without accommodation, then the neighbors seem content to wait and see. We see value in our communities. Just because others dont share our assessment doesnt mean we need to lower ourselves to the lowest common opinion. Where would Central New York be if Ryan McMahon gave White Pine to the first chicken farmer to express interest? Sometimes it makes sense to hold out hope.

Tim Rudd

Syracuse

The writer is a member of the Syracuse Zoning Board of Appeals. He also is budget director for the City of Syracuse.

Related:

Syracuse needs affordable housing. Why is it resisting a big project in a poor neighborhood?

Dont let social service agencies gobble up affordable housing (Your Letters)

Decision on affordable housing was about us without us (Your Letters)
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Teagasc Pig Open Day

The Teagasc Pig Development Department held their Pig Open Day this week in two locations, Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research & Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork on Wednesday, 22nd May and Friday, 24th May in Ballyhaise Agricultural College, County Cavan.

Pictured at the Teagasc Pig Open Day this week in Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork on Wednesday, 22nd May were: Sarah Hanley, IFA; Ciaran Carroll, Teagasc; Dr. Edgar Garcia Manzanilla, Teagasc; Professor Frank OMara, Director of Teagasc, Dr. Amy Quinn, Teagasc; and Professor Laurence Shalloo, Teagasc.

Delegates were welcomed to the event in Cork by the Director of Teagasc, Professor Frank OMara. The opening session also included an overview of future research by the Head of the Teagasc Pig Development Department, Dr. Edgar Garcia Manzanilla.

Over 180 pig producers and industry stakeholders attended the event over the two days. Attendees were guided through interactive stations providing an ideal opportunity to see first-hand the results of the comprehensive research programme undertaken by Teagasc, and to meet and discuss with the researchers, postgraduate students and technical staff who carry out the work.

Much of the research on show had an emphasis on management and nutritional strategies as well as sustainable pig production. This event provided attendees with an update on the Teagasc Pig Research Facility, our state of the art pig research farm, where we also detailed some of the new technologies employed in the unit. This year we introduced the Pig Nutrition Feed Lab and the early results from wet chemistry analysis of feed ingredients from the Teagasc pig sector feedstuffs analysis programme.

Speaking at the event, open day organiser and Teagasc Specialised Advisor, Dr Amy Quinn said, We were delighted to welcome such big numbers to this years event. Attendees really enjoyed the interactive structure. This type of engagement and feedback benefits both the attendees and our research staff and students, strengthens our programme and ensures our future research continues to be both applicable and of high quality.

The research on show at the event can be found in the event booklet here

Tune into the Teagasc Pig Edge Podcast for regular updates here
Candy$Cars BHPian



Join Date: Dec 2019 Location: Allahabad Posts: 167 Thanked: 1,029 Times

Re: Road Rage - Understanding, Avoidance and De-escalating Situation Quote: SS-Traveller Originally Posted by



It was so satisfying!

https://www.Youtube.com/watch?v=XlAPDGlEBn8 Sometimes, a dangerous driver irks you. And you want to retaliate. But you don't want to get into a fight. So what do you do? You slow him down, even stop him, but exchange no heated words. All he can do is honk at you. After a few seconds, he realizes his honking is fruitless, so he calms down a bit, getting ready to get out of his car and come to you to pick a fight. That's when you drive away.It was so satisfying!

Heck, I would say your move was even more reckless than his. At the end of the day, he is just a driver for BluSmart, we don't expect much road sense from him but we do expect much much better from a distinguished BHPian like you.



With regards to the Blu overtaking the Ciaz - i guess the Blu wanted to move fast (maybe he was late for his pickup, who knows?) and the Ciaz was just driving slowly at the middle of the road. You can see that the Ciaz gives left indicator after the Blu had already committed to the overtake and crossed like 1/3rd of the Ciaz. I don't think the Blu driver even saw the indicator - for him the Ciaz driver was a menace who was blocking the road by driving in the middle. Sir, with due respect, this wasn't a very wise thing to do. Just because someone else is a moron, doesn't mean we need to act in a similar way. Stopping a car right at an intersection could have also caused other cars (coming from different lanes if lights changed) to also wait at the middle of the crossing for no fault of theirs.Heck, I would say your move was even more reckless than his. At the end of the day, he is just a driver for BluSmart, we don't expect much road sense from him but we do expect much much better from a distinguished BHPian like you.With regards to the Blu overtaking the Ciaz - i guess the Blu wanted to move fast (maybe he was late for his pickup, who knows?) and the Ciaz was just driving slowly at the middle of the road. You can see that the Ciaz gives left indicator after the Blu had already committed to the overtake and crossed like 1/3rd of the Ciaz. I don't think the Blu driver even saw the indicator - for him the Ciaz driver was a menace who was blocking the road by driving in the middle.
Sudheesh Newbie



Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: Kerala Posts: 5 Thanked: 25 Times

My Maruti Ignis with CNG Review







I started writing this in 2022 and finished it in 2024 owing to my habit of procrastination. This is my first writeup on Team-BHP and it will be long. So here goes.



It was November 2020, shortly after the first wave of COVID in India. I was actually not in need of a new car at that point. I was using my elder brothers 2010 Hyundai i10 Magna (1.2 Kappa) for several years and was pretty happy with it. He was thinking whether to take it to Chennai with him or not, because Covid had made public travel a real hassle. I realised that if I bought a car, my brother could have the i10 for himself. It was clear in my head that Id be buying only a used car because it made more sense in my condition then, as Covid had helped to lower my salary by half for several months at that time. Also, a well-maintained used car appealed more to me than a new one because of the drastic increase in new car prices.



I began searching for a good used car. I was clear about my requirements. Until then I had been using the i10 and apart from the fuel efficiency, the car was a real gem. It was the perfect hatchback with a nice engine, good handling (despite its somewhat tallboy design), nice interiors (the plastics had not faded even after 10 years of usage, no rattles or squeaks), adequate space, good AC, etc. I really liked driving it and wouldnt feel tired even after a long drive. I had too many good memories with that car.



So my next car had to be at the same level as the i10 if not above it. As I loved to drive, the car had to have a good engine and reasonably good handling. I was looking only at small petrol hatchbacks, period. My usage was limited and mostly in town and highways. It must be easy to maintain and easy on pockets. Should have power windows, minimum 2 airbags, ABS, and reasonable fuel efficiency. Since I would be the only one driving it, my comfort mattered the most. I dont like to sit too low, a little tall boy nature is preferred. Mostly 2 or maximum 3 people will travel in the car including me and hence rear seat comfort, leg space and boot space were not of much relevance. In short, if I get a small peppy car with a fuel economy of about 16 kmpl, I would be happy.



Then came the budget which was nonexistent to start with. There were two options, buy an old car with around 7-8 years on it under 2-3 lakhs, use it for a couple of years or buy a car within 3 years at around 4.5-5 lakhs and use it for as much as I can. I started looking in OLX and quickly understood that the first option was not possible simply because the cars didnt meet my expectations, either they were too old and felt their age or the features were too limited or the engine wasnt good or the fuel economy was bad.



Also, I had removed Hyundai from the list as I wanted a different brand this time. Even though the Hyundai Grand i10 was a good option, it didnt seem exciting enough and also our i10 was not very pocket-friendly since it passed 1 lakh km in odometer. So, no more Hyundai. I was not a fan of Maruti Suzuki but I liked their 1.2-litre engine as I have been driving my colleagues Baleno daily for the past one year. The engine was smooth, rev-happy, returned good mileage and no faults or issues, but I personally dont like Swift or Baleno due to the sunken seating and the overall interior feel. Toyota and VW were simply out of the question as the former didnt have a desirable hatchback and the latter was not pocket-friendly at all. Only Tiago made any sense from the stable of TATA but I didnt like its engine. I wasnt thinking just in terms of practicality, the car had to have an element of excitement in it.



So, after thinking for a couple of days, I arrived at the Ignis. I liked the front end of the car and the boxy design which made it look like a miniature SUV, but I despised its rear end when I saw it for the first time, as time went by I had grown somewhat soft on its appearance though. But going through its reviews made me aware that this was a good small car and I have to test drive it to make a decision. The car was new in the Indian market as it was launched in 2017 and hence not many Ignis were available in the used car market. The used car prices in Kerala are always on the higher side compared to other states and that didnt help either.



Going through OLX and talking to some of the used car dealers through friends made it clear to me that I would get only the base model Ignis Sigma at 4.5 lakhs and I was not for it (when the car was launched, 4.5 lakhs was the ex-showroom price for Sigma). It had to be at least the Delta variant which came with essential features and that would put me down by 5 lakhs for a good car. I really came to understand the resale potential of a Maruti! Even the Delta variant didnt appeal to me that much because the front end lost its charm without the LED headlamps and DRL. But I knew that the top-end model was beyond my scope, hence I decided to find a good Ignis Delta , test drive it and hopefully get it for a good bargain. But I knew that a well-maintained one would definitely cost upward of 5 lakhs as the price of a new car OTR has increased by a fair amount in the past couple of years. I looked online and found that there were only a couple of Ignis Delta in my city, and a few dozen in the state of Kerala with asking prices ranging from 5.25 to 5.6 lakhs.



One of those was quite near my home at a Maruti True Value Shop. I went there the next day itself and as luck would have it, they didnt have the Delta variant and had two Alpha MT variants, one from 2017 in Nexa Blue and another from 2018 in Uptown Red. Both cars were TD vehicles from the nearby Nexa showroom and were replaced when the latest cosmetic updates came in. The asking prices were 5.75 lakhs and 6 lakhs respectively. I almost laughed to myself at this point, I could buy a new car at this price! My thought was, I am not going to buy this, but since I have not driven the car, will do a TD and at least it will save me from wasting time searching for another Ignis if I didnt like the car. They gave me the Blue one to TD because the battery in the Red one was dead. As I sat inside and started driving, I realised that this is a really nice car! The seating position was nice, the road view was good, steering felt OK, the car was peppy to drive, shifts were slick, the engine had enough grunt and was smooth as expected. The main difference was that unlike Baleno or Swift, the engine felt and sounded sportier in the Ignis, maybe because of the power to weight ratio.



Also the interior was pleasant in black and white theme. The front seats were good and provided adequate support, the dashboard was black which I liked, body coloured door handles on the inside and the inserts in the centre console made a nice touch. Rear doors looked drab from the inside, rear seats also lacked under thigh support but that was not an issue with me. The boot had enough space thanks to the nearly vertical rear design, you could stack things pretty high. Also the seats were 60:40 split and had ISOFIX anchors, I was really impressed. I told the SA that I like the car but it is way beyond my budget (about 1 lakh), he told me that the cars are in perfect condition and as I am not planning to exchange my car he cannot do much with the pricing. The maximum he can do is 5.75 lakhs for the 2018 model Red one and 5.5 for the 2017 model Blue one.



I went home and again started searching for cars online and after some time came to a conclusion that I will have to spend a minimum of 5 lakhs for a good car that met my expectations. I was also certain that after I get the car, I will most definitely spend some money on it for a touchscreen navigation system or a rear camera or good speakers. When I factored in all my observations, the 2018 Red Ignis seemed like an option. But I had not driven it, so again I called the SA and asked him for a TD for the Red car. I went in the next day and drove it. The car felt in better condition than the previous one but the clutch felt a bit heavier, but this was expected as it was a TD vehicle. Apart from that, the car was well kept and the interiors were neat with no signs of abuse. I liked the car and now came the question, do I need to buy this at a price way above my budget or should I keep looking for something less costly. I sat down and began to assess my requirements again. I came to a decision that I really liked Ignis and wanted to buy one. I also considered what I will get in a used Ignis Delta variant which will cost me around 5 lakhs, and anyway I will have to add money to make it as per my taste. Then I considered the Red Ignis Alpha and considered what I will get for 5.75 lakhs.



The Ignis gets two airbags, ABS + EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts and seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters as standard.



The Alpha trim came with Led Projectors with DRL which made the car good looking. The halogens in the other trims were really boring. Touchscreen navigation system with Android Auto was a good thing and whichever car I bought, I was sure to get one installed. Rear camera with parking sensors was also a requirement. The car came with all the plastic cladding, door visors and dual tone finish(uptown red with black roof) which made it look far better. It came with alloys, puddle lamps, fog lamps, accent lighting on metre console, engine push start/stop button, passive keyless entry, electrically folding ORVMs, automatic climate control, driver seat height adjuster, voice command system(which seems useless), 4 speakers plus 2 tweeters(quality average), rear defogger, rear wiper(absolutely needed), dual tone interiors, etc. (Also, without the Climate control console and touchscreen system, the dashboard was not at all pleasant to look at).



So, I reasoned that since I like to have creature comforts and some of the above features felt really necessary the price of the car would be justified if it had been 5.5 lakhs. But as I said, 5.75 was the last offer. But on further thinking, the price didnt seem that high after all. As I said earlier, the vehicle was a TD car earlier and as such, it had all the bells and whistles of customization on the exterior and genuine seat cover from Maruti with red accents which looked nice (around 6-8K for that), four brand new tyres with under 1000 km on them (20K for that), battery was dead and they installed another with less than a year on it, the insurance was expired and they renewed it through Maruti dealer itself with zero depreciation cover which cost 15.5K. On top of all these, as I was buying the car through a Maruti True Value shop, they provided one year warranty on engine and gearbox with three free services and they will take care of the paperwork too.



Considering the list of features in the car along with these factors, the extra money that I am shedding suddenly seemed fully justified, also I would not have to spend anything on the car until the next insurance renewal. The remaining question was, whether I needed to spend this amount above my budget to buy a used car. But I was really sold on the car and the question seemed pointless!! I called my friend who was then working at Maruti service and asked him to check the history of the car. Satisfied with the response from him, the decision was made and I contacted my bank for a loan, got approval very quickly and on 27th November, 2020, around three weeks after the initial thinking, the car became mine.







The Eyeliner



The first add on after the car came home was a baby seat for my toddler. It was a Babyhug ISOFIX model and we are really happy about the decision. The convenience it provides while taking your little one on drives cannot be explained. My son can see the outside better as the seat is raised and he can sleep peacefully in it. The most important thing is that I can drive at usual speeds and can brake as and when needed without the worry of him falling down while braking.







Then I got a dash cam from DDPAI and installed it myself. The camera came with a wiring kit and fuse connector so that it can be directly connected to the fuse box rather than the power socket. The dash cam is very important from a safety perspective. The camera clarity was better when it was new but not so much right now. Thinking about changing to a better one.







Annoying issue



After a few days, I noticed the problem with the steering, it wont return on its own after a turn. I was surprised that I didnt notice it while test driving and on further investigation, found out that all the cars till the update in 2020 have this problem and is not rectifiable. I mentioned this complaint on the first service and they greased the mechanism and adjusted it without causing any play, it improved a bit, i.e., on faster turns, the steering would more or less return. But I got used to it in a couple of days and it doesn't bother me anymore. But it is quite surprising that such a problem would be unnoticed during testing after production and furthermore, it would be unaddressed by the company at a later stage.



What I felt about the car



The car is a joy to drive. Driving position is really good and the visibility is something that I appreciate highly. The grunt of the engine can be heard inside when pushed hard which feels quite sporty. The driver seat lumbar support is on the poorer side and is causing me back aches. The steering weight is comfortable for me but it is not as light as in some other cars. I drove my friends Tiago and the steering was feather light but it also lacked feedback. The dashboard is practical and made of hard plastic. It is evident that Maruti has cut costs in the dashboard department. Centre console and cup holders are just adequate. Where the car really shines is in the ease of use and practicality.



Highway stability and handling are better considering the tall boy nature. Getting in and out of the car is very easy for the driver but the rear seat passengers bump their head on the roof sometimes. The steering column adjustment lever hits my knee sometimes while getting into the car and it can be painful. Is it just me or is it a design flaw, I am not sure. T



he climate control display panel and switches are hard bearing and pleasant to look at. If not for the touchscreen, climate control unit and dual tone finish, the dashboard looks pretty boring and outdated by several decades. Initially I thought that the white interiors would be a headache to maintain but I was wrong. The surfaces don't get dirty that fast and a microfiber towel and some car shampoo is all it takes to make it look like new. The speakers are average and because of the door panels, they rattle even more at high volumes. If you place anything in the door pockets, it has to be a snug fit, if not the rattles might freak you out.



Even though the car was good and I was satisfied with the decision, the differences between Hyundai and Maruti was obvious. I was using a 2010 model i10 till then and in all regards, Ignis fell into the same category of i10 such as size, shape, engine capacity, etc. But the i10 felt much better in many aspects even though it was a decade old car. The interiors still felt brand new owing to the quality of plastics used, the fit and finish was way better, panel gaps were less, no squeaks or creeks, the doors felt better and the overall fit and finish was good. The feel good factor is something that Maruti has to learn from Hyundai.











But, one term overshadows everything else: Mileage! There, Maruti shines like no other. Ignis returned a healthy mileage of 16.5 to 18 kmpl on average. The lowest being 15.5 kmpl when pushed hard and the highest being 19.5 kmpl on a long drive (calculated from full tank to full tank method). Also, services and spares were cheaper than before, but that meant I started to use the car more than I had anticipated before buying it. It led to my next decision which was to install a CNG kit in the car.



CNG retrofitment



I had actually thought about this before but held back as there were no CNG filling stations near my home. After three months of owning the car, a CNG filling station opened up near my home and I went through various review videos and articles on the good and bad of CNG and finally decided to get it installed. At this point, the car had covered 7.5k km. Along with my car, my friends Alto also got the kit installed as we carpooled to work regularly. My CNG kit was a sequential one from LOVATO and the Alto got an Open looped kit from LOVATO. The reducer and the ECM were from LOVATO and the other fittings such as the tank, advancer, etc., were from local vendors.



The CNG cylinder was of 12 kg capacity (65L water capacity) and as the gas was pressurised and filled, about 80% of the total volume was the filling capacity. That is around 8.5 to 9 kg can be filled in the cylinder depending on the pressure at the filling station. Also, the cylinder weighs around 65 kg and takes up most of the space in the boot. The gas is filled at around 200 bar pressure which is equal to about 3000 psi. To put it into perspective, the average pressure in a cars tyre is about 30 psi.







I knew that the car would lose some power while on CNG and was mentally prepared for it. As per the data from Maruti, Wagon R CNG (1L) is around 9bhp less powerful than its petrol counterpart. But to my surprise, the car didnt feel underpowered that much. On sudden acceleration and while overtaking in a hurry, yes it felt slower but not sluggish, and on highways you could hardly feel the difference. Also the car didnt struggle even when it seated 5 people. But the same was not the case with the Alto, the car struggled when the AC was turned on and you could sense the drop in power while driving the car normally. Maybe this was due to the smaller engine of Alto which produced less power to begin with and also as the kit was open looped with no electronic control unit.











Driving on CNG meant that the car was now being used extensively as the running cost has now come down considerably. CNG costs less than petrol and the car gives more mileage on CNG. I am getting around 27 to 29 km/kg of CNG. This equates to about less than half the fuel cost of petrol to run the car. Ignis is my daily drive and I drive around 80kms a day for 5 days per week plus the weekend runs. After I got Ignis my bike has done only about 15k km in the past 3 and a half years.



Legal side of aftermarket CNG Fitment



The dealer should have Govt. approval and should be registered with the kit brand. The car should be at least a 2005 model. Also, the kit and vehicle should be on the Govt. approved list.



The following details are provided by the kit installer: Certificate from kit installer

Detailed list of installed items

Approval certificate for dealer from state transport dept.

Approval for kit from ICAT

Approval certificate for the tank from dept. of explosives

Kit layout plan

Detailed bill, etc.

For endorsing the CNG kit in your RC



Go to Parivahan website - Online Services - vehicle related services - state - registering authority - Alteration of vehicle - fuel - petrol/CNG - enter retrofitting details - pay online fees - print fee receipt.



Apply to your concerned RTO with Fee receipt, original RC, kit papers from installer, copy of PUC and insurance. Present your vehicle in front of the officer for inspection. After the approval, a new RC will be issued with Petrol/CNG mentioned in it.



After this, apply with the new RC for endorsing it in your insurance as well. This is important for any future claims.



A weird issue!



As the original horn stopped working, I got a windtone horn similar to the one in the Polo. Some days later, I started to notice a very peculiar problem. Sometimes while accelerating, the car would violently jerk as if the power was completely cut off for a split second. The car wouldnt turn off and there were no error symbols on the console. This happened while suddenly accelerating from cruising speed or accelerating after gear shifts, etc. Sometimes, there would be no problem at all. I noticed that whenever this issue occurred I was using the horn! But no fuse was blown, the horn relay was working fine and no wires had melted. The auto electrician couldnt identify the problem and the possible cause was the battery. Checked the battery and the voltage was showing just around 12V and one cell was weak. Hence, I changed the battery to Amaron. Still, the problem persisted. Finally, I threw away the horn and its wiring harness and got a simple Bosch horn which could be directly connected without any relay. Problem solved!



The new battery was working fine but the battery indicator (sight glass) was never showing green and when checked with a multimeter the voltage was 12V, sometimes 11.9V. The alternator was working fine and the recharge voltage was also as expected. Gave the battery for charging and it was returned with the green indicator visible. After some days, the same issue reappeared. I've never faced any issue with starting the car and the battery was working fine as per the battery shop. I removed the dash cam for a few days but it didn't change the condition. Also, I couldn't find any leaks either. This condition has persisted till now.



Issues with CNG



As soon as the kit was installed, I noticed a jerky nature like a hiccup while shifting gears and on part throttle driving. They changed the tuning of the ECM and it somehow got ok but not perfect. After a year or so, the car shifted from CNG to petrol while driving as if there was no gas and this error kept coming back. The fault was diagnosed as the solenoid valve in the reducer gone bad. The fitment centre took back the reducer and gave me a new one under warranty. During this process, I learned about the types of reducers. There are single-stage and Multi stage reducers on the market and for a vehicle of 1.2ltr or above capacity, you should have ideally installed the multi-stage reducer but the one in my car was single-stage. I thought that it might be the cause of jerking at slow speed and gear shifts.



Later, after the car had done about 30k km post CNG kit installation, I tried to resolve the issue of this jerking again. Went to a CNG mechanic near my home, and stood there through the process for a whole day. He changed the gas injectors, no change. He changed the reducer to a multi-staged one, with no change. He changed the advancer, no change. Now only the ECM and gas cylinder were remaining which hardly seemed to be the problem. Finally, he reinstalled all the original parts and left it as it was. Hence the issue still remains unresolved. But Ive learned to drive without causing the small jerk by using the clutch and it is not disturbing me that much anymore. But during this ordeal, I have learned one thing. There are not enough qualified mechanics for CNG cars and the ASS wont look at retrofitted kits. If anyone knows a good CNG mechanic anywhere in Kerala or Coimbatore, please let me know.



On a side note







In October 2021, the Honda Jazz S i-DTEC joined our stable as the i10 was getting old. Sadly, we had to let go of our beloved i10 in February 2022 as maintaining three cars was proving to be a little too much. I was a bit emotional as I had a lot of fond memories with the car. It was my first car and the first car always remains special.



After 3 years and 6 months, the Ignis has done about 70K km with me at the helm. I have changed the battery once, horn twice, and replaced the clutch while the odometer was at 85K. Once, a coconut fell on the bonnet and had to repaint that part. Later a small rock caused a crack on the front windshield and it had to be replaced. Other than that, the car has given me no big trouble and I am pretty happy with my decision.







The clock is around 112K km now and the tyres are due for a change. They have lasted 70K km and I am truly surprised. Maybe due to the fact that a major part of my commute is on highways. Currently, the car is on Bridgestone Ecopia rubber and I am looking at Yokohama Earth1 as my next set. Any suggestions are welcome.



Thank-you for reading till the end. This is about how I landed with my current car, a pre-owned Maruti IGNIS Alpha 1.2 MT, installing a CNG kit in it and my user experience.I started writing this in 2022 and finished it in 2024 owing to my habit of procrastination. This is my first writeup on Team-BHP and it will be long. So here goes.It was November 2020, shortly after the first wave of COVID in India. I was actually not in need of a new car at that point. I was using my elder brothers 2010 Hyundai i10 Magna (1.2 Kappa) for several years and was pretty happy with it. He was thinking whether to take it to Chennai with him or not, because Covid had made public travel a real hassle. I realised that if I bought a car, my brother could have the i10 for himself. It was clear in my head that Id be buying only a used car because it made more sense in my condition then, as Covid had helped to lower my salary by half for several months at that time. Also, a well-maintained used car appealed more to me than a new one because of the drastic increase in new car prices.I began searching for a good used car. I was clear about my requirements. Until then I had been using the i10 and apart from the fuel efficiency, the car was a real gem. It was the perfect hatchback with a nice engine, good handling (despite its somewhat tallboy design), nice interiors (the plastics had not faded even after 10 years of usage, no rattles or squeaks), adequate space, good AC, etc. I really liked driving it and wouldnt feel tired even after a long drive. I had too many good memories with that car.So my next car had to be at the same level as the i10 if not above it. As I loved to drive, the car had to have a good engine and reasonably good handling. I was looking only at small petrol hatchbacks, period. My usage was limited and mostly in town and highways. It must be easy to maintain and easy on pockets. Should have power windows, minimum 2 airbags, ABS, and reasonable fuel efficiency. Since I would be the only one driving it, my comfort mattered the most. I dont like to sit too low, a little tall boy nature is preferred. Mostly 2 or maximum 3 people will travel in the car including me and hence rear seat comfort, leg space and boot space were not of much relevance. In short, if I get a small peppy car with a fuel economy of about 16 kmpl, I would be happy.Then came the budget which was nonexistent to start with. There were two options, buy an old car with around 7-8 years on it under 2-3 lakhs, use it for a couple of years or buy a car within 3 years at around 4.5-5 lakhs and use it for as much as I can. I started looking in OLX and quickly understood that the first option was not possible simply because the cars didnt meet my expectations, either they were too old and felt their age or the features were too limited or the engine wasnt good or the fuel economy was bad.Also, I had removed Hyundai from the list as I wanted a different brand this time. Even though the Hyundai Grand i10 was a good option, it didnt seem exciting enough and also our i10 was not very pocket-friendly since it passed 1 lakh km in odometer. So, no more Hyundai. I was not a fan of Maruti Suzuki but I liked their 1.2-litre engine as I have been driving my colleagues Baleno daily for the past one year. The engine was smooth, rev-happy, returned good mileage and no faults or issues, but I personally dont like Swift or Baleno due to the sunken seating and the overall interior feel. Toyota and VW were simply out of the question as the former didnt have a desirable hatchback and the latter was not pocket-friendly at all. Only Tiago made any sense from the stable of TATA but I didnt like its engine. I wasnt thinking just in terms of practicality, the car had to have an element of excitement in it.So, after thinking for a couple of days, I arrived at the Ignis. I liked the front end of the car and the boxy design which made it look like a miniature SUV, but I despised its rear end when I saw it for the first time, as time went by I had grown somewhat soft on its appearance though. But going through its reviews made me aware that this was a good small car and I have to test drive it to make a decision. The car was new in the Indian market as it was launched in 2017 and hence not many Ignis were available in the used car market. The used car prices in Kerala are always on the higher side compared to other states and that didnt help either.Going through OLX and talking to some of the used car dealers through friends made it clear to me that I would get only the base model Ignis Sigma at 4.5 lakhs and I was not for it (when the car was launched, 4.5 lakhs was the ex-showroom price for Sigma). It had to be at least the Delta variant which came with essential features and that would put me down by 5 lakhs for a good car. I really came to understand the resale potential of a Maruti! Even the Delta variant didnt appeal to me that much because the front end lost its charm without the LED headlamps and DRL. But I knew that the top-end model was beyond my scope, hence I decided to find a good Ignis Delta , test drive it and hopefully get it for a good bargain. But I knew that a well-maintained one would definitely cost upward of 5 lakhs as the price of a new car OTR has increased by a fair amount in the past couple of years. I looked online and found that there were only a couple of Ignis Delta in my city, and a few dozen in the state of Kerala with asking prices ranging from 5.25 to 5.6 lakhs.One of those was quite near my home at a Maruti True Value Shop. I went there the next day itself and as luck would have it, they didnt have the Delta variant and had two Alpha MT variants, one from 2017 in Nexa Blue and another from 2018 in Uptown Red. Both cars were TD vehicles from the nearby Nexa showroom and were replaced when the latest cosmetic updates came in. The asking prices were 5.75 lakhs and 6 lakhs respectively. I almost laughed to myself at this point, I could buy a new car at this price! My thought was, I am not going to buy this, but since I have not driven the car, will do a TD and at least it will save me from wasting time searching for another Ignis if I didnt like the car. They gave me the Blue one to TD because the battery in the Red one was dead. As I sat inside and started driving, I realised that this is a really nice car! The seating position was nice, the road view was good, steering felt OK, the car was peppy to drive, shifts were slick, the engine had enough grunt and was smooth as expected. The main difference was that unlike Baleno or Swift, the engine felt and sounded sportier in the Ignis, maybe because of the power to weight ratio.Also the interior was pleasant in black and white theme. The front seats were good and provided adequate support, the dashboard was black which I liked, body coloured door handles on the inside and the inserts in the centre console made a nice touch. Rear doors looked drab from the inside, rear seats also lacked under thigh support but that was not an issue with me. The boot had enough space thanks to the nearly vertical rear design, you could stack things pretty high. Also the seats were 60:40 split and had ISOFIX anchors, I was really impressed. I told the SA that I like the car but it is way beyond my budget (about 1 lakh), he told me that the cars are in perfect condition and as I am not planning to exchange my car he cannot do much with the pricing. The maximum he can do is 5.75 lakhs for the 2018 model Red one and 5.5 for the 2017 model Blue one.I went home and again started searching for cars online and after some time came to a conclusion that I will have to spend a minimum of 5 lakhs for a good car that met my expectations. I was also certain that after I get the car, I will most definitely spend some money on it for a touchscreen navigation system or a rear camera or good speakers. When I factored in all my observations, the 2018 Red Ignis seemed like an option. But I had not driven it, so again I called the SA and asked him for a TD for the Red car. I went in the next day and drove it. The car felt in better condition than the previous one but the clutch felt a bit heavier, but this was expected as it was a TD vehicle. Apart from that, the car was well kept and the interiors were neat with no signs of abuse. I liked the car and now came the question, do I need to buy this at a price way above my budget or should I keep looking for something less costly. I sat down and began to assess my requirements again. I came to a decision that I really liked Ignis and wanted to buy one. I also considered what I will get in a used Ignis Delta variant which will cost me around 5 lakhs, and anyway I will have to add money to make it as per my taste. Then I considered the Red Ignis Alpha and considered what I will get for 5.75 lakhs.The Ignis gets two airbags, ABS + EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts and seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters as standard.The Alpha trim came with Led Projectors with DRL which made the car good looking. The halogens in the other trims were really boring. Touchscreen navigation system with Android Auto was a good thing and whichever car I bought, I was sure to get one installed. Rear camera with parking sensors was also a requirement. The car came with all the plastic cladding, door visors and dual tone finish(uptown red with black roof) which made it look far better. It came with alloys, puddle lamps, fog lamps, accent lighting on metre console, engine push start/stop button, passive keyless entry, electrically folding ORVMs, automatic climate control, driver seat height adjuster, voice command system(which seems useless), 4 speakers plus 2 tweeters(quality average), rear defogger, rear wiper(absolutely needed), dual tone interiors, etc. (Also, without the Climate control console and touchscreen system, the dashboard was not at all pleasant to look at).So, I reasoned that since I like to have creature comforts and some of the above features felt really necessary the price of the car would be justified if it had been 5.5 lakhs. But as I said, 5.75 was the last offer. But on further thinking, the price didnt seem that high after all. As I said earlier, the vehicle was a TD car earlier and as such, it had all the bells and whistles of customization on the exterior and genuine seat cover from Maruti with red accents which looked nice (around 6-8K for that), four brand new tyres with under 1000 km on them (20K for that), battery was dead and they installed another with less than a year on it, the insurance was expired and they renewed it through Maruti dealer itself with zero depreciation cover which cost 15.5K. On top of all these, as I was buying the car through a Maruti True Value shop, they provided one year warranty on engine and gearbox with three free services and they will take care of the paperwork too.Considering the list of features in the car along with these factors, the extra money that I am shedding suddenly seemed fully justified, also I would not have to spend anything on the car until the next insurance renewal. The remaining question was, whether I needed to spend this amount above my budget to buy a used car. But I was really sold on the car and the question seemed pointless!! I called my friend who was then working at Maruti service and asked him to check the history of the car. Satisfied with the response from him, the decision was made and I contacted my bank for a loan, got approval very quickly and on 27th November, 2020, around three weeks after the initial thinking, the car became mine.The EyelinerThe first add on after the car came home was a baby seat for my toddler. It was a Babyhug ISOFIX model and we are really happy about the decision. The convenience it provides while taking your little one on drives cannot be explained. My son can see the outside better as the seat is raised and he can sleep peacefully in it. The most important thing is that I can drive at usual speeds and can brake as and when needed without the worry of him falling down while braking.Then I got a dash cam from DDPAI and installed it myself. The camera came with a wiring kit and fuse connector so that it can be directly connected to the fuse box rather than the power socket. The dash cam is very important from a safety perspective. The camera clarity was better when it was new but not so much right now. Thinking about changing to a better one.After a few days, I noticed the problem with the steering, it wont return on its own after a turn. I was surprised that I didnt notice it while test driving and on further investigation, found out that all the cars till the update in 2020 have this problem and is not rectifiable. I mentioned this complaint on the first service and they greased the mechanism and adjusted it without causing any play, it improved a bit, i.e., on faster turns, the steering would more or less return. But I got used to it in a couple of days and it doesn't bother me anymore. But it is quite surprising that such a problem would be unnoticed during testing after production and furthermore, it would be unaddressed by the company at a later stage.The car is a joy to drive. Driving position is really good and the visibility is something that I appreciate highly. The grunt of the engine can be heard inside when pushed hard which feels quite sporty. The driver seat lumbar support is on the poorer side and is causing me back aches. The steering weight is comfortable for me but it is not as light as in some other cars. I drove my friends Tiago and the steering was feather light but it also lacked feedback. The dashboard is practical and made of hard plastic. It is evident that Maruti has cut costs in the dashboard department. Centre console and cup holders are just adequate. Where the car really shines is in the ease of use and practicality.Highway stability and handling are better considering the tall boy nature. Getting in and out of the car is very easy for the driver but the rear seat passengers bump their head on the roof sometimes. The steering column adjustment lever hits my knee sometimes while getting into the car and it can be painful. Is it just me or is it a design flaw, I am not sure. The climate control display panel and switches are hard bearing and pleasant to look at. If not for the touchscreen, climate control unit and dual tone finish, the dashboard looks pretty boring and outdated by several decades. Initially I thought that the white interiors would be a headache to maintain but I was wrong. The surfaces don't get dirty that fast and a microfiber towel and some car shampoo is all it takes to make it look like new. The speakers are average and because of the door panels, they rattle even more at high volumes. If you place anything in the door pockets, it has to be a snug fit, if not the rattles might freak you out.Even though the car was good and I was satisfied with the decision, the differences between Hyundai and Maruti was obvious. I was using a 2010 model i10 till then and in all regards, Ignis fell into the same category of i10 such as size, shape, engine capacity, etc. But the i10 felt much better in many aspects even though it was a decade old car. The interiors still felt brand new owing to the quality of plastics used, the fit and finish was way better, panel gaps were less, no squeaks or creeks, the doors felt better and the overall fit and finish was good. The feel good factor is something that Maruti has to learn from Hyundai.But, one term overshadows everything else: Mileage! There, Maruti shines like no other. Ignis returned a healthy mileage of 16.5 to 18 kmpl on average. The lowest being 15.5 kmpl when pushed hard and the highest being 19.5 kmpl on a long drive (calculated from full tank to full tank method). Also, services and spares were cheaper than before, but that meant I started to use the car more than I had anticipated before buying it. It led to my next decision which was to install a CNG kit in the car.I had actually thought about this before but held back as there were no CNG filling stations near my home. After three months of owning the car, a CNG filling station opened up near my home and I went through various review videos and articles on the good and bad of CNG and finally decided to get it installed. At this point, the car had covered 7.5k km. Along with my car, my friends Alto also got the kit installed as we carpooled to work regularly. My CNG kit was a sequential one from LOVATO and the Alto got an Open looped kit from LOVATO. The reducer and the ECM were from LOVATO and the other fittings such as the tank, advancer, etc., were from local vendors.The CNG cylinder was of 12 kg capacity (65L water capacity) and as the gas was pressurised and filled, about 80% of the total volume was the filling capacity. That is around 8.5 to 9 kg can be filled in the cylinder depending on the pressure at the filling station. Also, the cylinder weighs around 65 kg and takes up most of the space in the boot. The gas is filled at around 200 bar pressure which is equal to about 3000 psi. To put it into perspective, the average pressure in a cars tyre is about 30 psi.I knew that the car would lose some power while on CNG and was mentally prepared for it. As per the data from Maruti, Wagon R CNG (1L) is around 9bhp less powerful than its petrol counterpart. But to my surprise, the car didnt feel underpowered that much. On sudden acceleration and while overtaking in a hurry, yes it felt slower but not sluggish, and on highways you could hardly feel the difference. Also the car didnt struggle even when it seated 5 people. But the same was not the case with the Alto, the car struggled when the AC was turned on and you could sense the drop in power while driving the car normally. Maybe this was due to the smaller engine of Alto which produced less power to begin with and also as the kit was open looped with no electronic control unit.Driving on CNG meant that the car was now being used extensively as the running cost has now come down considerably. CNG costs less than petrol and the car gives more mileage on CNG. I am getting around 27 to 29 km/kg of CNG. This equates to about less than half the fuel cost of petrol to run the car. Ignis is my daily drive and I drive around 80kms a day for 5 days per week plus the weekend runs. After I got Ignis my bike has done only about 15k km in the past 3 and a half years.The dealer should have Govt. approval and should be registered with the kit brand. The car should be at least a 2005 model. Also, the kit and vehicle should be on the Govt. approved list.The following details are provided by the kit installer:Go to Parivahan website - Online Services - vehicle related services - state - registering authority - Alteration of vehicle - fuel - petrol/CNG - enter retrofitting details - pay online fees - print fee receipt.Apply to your concerned RTO with Fee receipt, original RC, kit papers from installer, copy of PUC and insurance. Present your vehicle in front of the officer for inspection. After the approval, a new RC will be issued with Petrol/CNG mentioned in it.After this, apply with the new RC for endorsing it in your insurance as well. This is important for any future claims.As the original horn stopped working, I got a windtone horn similar to the one in the Polo. Some days later, I started to notice a very peculiar problem. Sometimes while accelerating, the car would violently jerk as if the power was completely cut off for a split second. The car wouldnt turn off and there were no error symbols on the console. This happened while suddenly accelerating from cruising speed or accelerating after gear shifts, etc. Sometimes, there would be no problem at all. I noticed that whenever this issue occurred I was using the horn! But no fuse was blown, the horn relay was working fine and no wires had melted. The auto electrician couldnt identify the problem and the possible cause was the battery. Checked the battery and the voltage was showing just around 12V and one cell was weak. Hence, I changed the battery to Amaron. Still, the problem persisted. Finally, I threw away the horn and its wiring harness and got a simple Bosch horn which could be directly connected without any relay. Problem solved!The new battery was working fine but the battery indicator (sight glass) was never showing green and when checked with a multimeter the voltage was 12V, sometimes 11.9V. The alternator was working fine and the recharge voltage was also as expected. Gave the battery for charging and it was returned with the green indicator visible. After some days, the same issue reappeared. I've never faced any issue with starting the car and the battery was working fine as per the battery shop. I removed the dash cam for a few days but it didn't change the condition. Also, I couldn't find any leaks either. This condition has persisted till now.As soon as the kit was installed, I noticed a jerky nature like a hiccup while shifting gears and on part throttle driving. They changed the tuning of the ECM and it somehow got ok but not perfect. After a year or so, the car shifted from CNG to petrol while driving as if there was no gas and this error kept coming back. The fault was diagnosed as the solenoid valve in the reducer gone bad. The fitment centre took back the reducer and gave me a new one under warranty. During this process, I learned about the types of reducers. There are single-stage and Multi stage reducers on the market and for a vehicle of 1.2ltr or above capacity, you should have ideally installed the multi-stage reducer but the one in my car was single-stage. I thought that it might be the cause of jerking at slow speed and gear shifts.Later, after the car had done about 30k km post CNG kit installation, I tried to resolve the issue of this jerking again. Went to a CNG mechanic near my home, and stood there through the process for a whole day. He changed the gas injectors, no change. He changed the reducer to a multi-staged one, with no change. He changed the advancer, no change. Now only the ECM and gas cylinder were remaining which hardly seemed to be the problem. Finally, he reinstalled all the original parts and left it as it was. Hence the issue still remains unresolved. But Ive learned to drive without causing the small jerk by using the clutch and it is not disturbing me that much anymore. But during this ordeal, I have learned one thing. There are not enough qualified mechanics for CNG cars and the ASS wont look at retrofitted kits. If anyone knows a good CNG mechanic anywhere in Kerala or Coimbatore, please let me know.In October 2021, the Honda Jazz S i-DTEC joined our stable as the i10 was getting old. Sadly, we had to let go of our beloved i10 in February 2022 as maintaining three cars was proving to be a little too much. I was a bit emotional as I had a lot of fond memories with the car. It was my first car and the first car always remains special.After 3 years and 6 months, the Ignis has done about 70K km with me at the helm. I have changed the battery once, horn twice, and replaced the clutch while the odometer was at 85K. Once, a coconut fell on the bonnet and had to repaint that part. Later a small rock caused a crack on the front windshield and it had to be replaced. Other than that, the car has given me no big trouble and I am pretty happy with my decision.The clock is around 112K km now and the tyres are due for a change. They have lasted 70K km and I am truly surprised. Maybe due to the fact that a major part of my commute is on highways. Currently, the car is on Bridgestone Ecopia rubber and I am looking at Yokohama Earth1 as my next set. Any suggestions are welcome.Thank-you for reading till the end. Last edited by Aditya : 23rd May 2024 at 16:57 . Reason: Spacing, formatting
scorpi0N BHPian



Join Date: Apr 2024 Location: Mumbai Posts: 28 Thanked: 400 Times

Beautiful Kerala road-trip, in a Honda WR-V

I still dont remember what triggered it. Maybe, it was the experience of COVID-19 period, or possibly the yearning to give company to a school friend posted in the interiors of Kerala against his preference (happens when you work for a large public sector bank). Perhaps, it was the desire to see his WR-V or maybe I just wanted to drive through the green countryside of Kerala, while he was there. Whatever it was, what eventually transpired was a four days memorable road trip through the scenic roads of Kerala with two of my school friends.



While being an impulsive decision, my friends (lets call him banker) familiarity with Kerala resulted in a smooth road trip broadly as follows:





Day 1: Kochi International Airport (A) to Idukki (B); 125 KM / 4 hours; stay at friends place in Idukki

Day 2: Idukki (B) to Periyar National Park (C); 30 KM/ 1 hour; stay inside the National Park

Day 3: Periyar National Park (C) to Munnar (D); 100 KM/ 3 hours; stay in Munnar

Day 4: Munnar (D) to Kochi International Airport (A); 100 KM/ 3.5 hours



While the total distance covered during the four days was less than 400 KMs, the hilly terrain and narrow roads, for the most part, made the travel a time consuming affair. The WR-V made it very comfortable though, and the breathtaking scenery of the Western Ghats made the trip a memorable one.





Summary of the trip



One other mutual friend and I arrived at Kochi International airport on the first day, where banker was ready with his WR-V for picking us up. We drove through the mesmerizing roads along the hills to reach a place called as Idukki, where banker was stationed.



From Kochi to Idukki

Idukki is a place which lies amid the Cardamom Hills of Western Ghats in Kerala. As per the Government of Kerala's website, and evident to us during the trip, Idukki has a vast forest reserve area which make it a stunning place. After reaching his place in Idukki we had a few light moments of catching up, cooking and eating together, and just chatting for a long time.



We started early next morning for Periyar Tiger Reserve, which was close by. This wildlife sanctuary is home to tigers and elephants, as well as rare lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards and Indian bison. I am not sure if we spotted these fantastic creatures, but what we realised was how truly spectacular the sanctuary was. I think our national parks are very underrated tourist destinations. Whether it be Gir in the West, Kanha in the East or Periyar in the south, and so many more across India; these national parks are truly worth exploring responsibly.





Our car was allowed inside for some distance, after which we hopped on a ferry to cross the Periyar lake as the place where we were supposed to stay - Kerala Tourism Development Corporation's (KTDC) Lake Palace, was located on the other side, within the immense Tiger Reserve.





We stayed at the beautiful property, explored the nearby areas and went on a namesake safari, which was again on a ferry.



KTDC Lake Palace



We were treated to some delicious Malayali cuisine. As they say, a trip in any part of India is incomplete without taking delight in the local cuisine. While hailing from North India, I have really enjoyed Malayali cuisine, whenever I have gotten a chance. Few years back, I had the greatest fortune of enjoying a Sadhya meal in a friend's wedding in Trivandrum. Sadhya is a feast consisting of a variety of traditional vegetarian dishes usually served on a banana leaf.



A Sadhya meal

After having well rested, we started for Munnar the next morning. We were already thoroughly impressed with the views we had encountered in the first two days. However, it wasn't enough it seems, as the journey to Munnar was through some of the most awe-inspiring roads in India which I have seen.



From Periyar to Munnar



We reached Munnar just in time for lunch. By this time, we were slightly tired. We had lunch at KTDC Tea County, where we were staying, and amidst the cloudy weather we didn't want to venture out and decided to take some rest. In the evening we roamed around the beautiful property. It was really pleasing to note how amazing and well managed some of the KTDC properties are.



KTDC Tea County



Next morning we started for Kochi International Airport. Once there, with a heavy heart, we bid goodbye to banker and to Kerala, and boarded our flights home; grateful for all the memories from God's own country. I still dont remember what triggered it. Maybe, it was the experience of COVID-19 period, or possibly the yearning to give company to a school friend posted in the interiors of Kerala against his preference (happens when you work for a large public sector bank). Perhaps, it was the desire to see his WR-V or maybe I just wanted to drive through the green countryside of Kerala, while he was there. Whatever it was, what eventually transpired was a four days memorable road trip through the scenic roads of Kerala with two of my school friends.While being an impulsive decision, my friends (lets call him banker) familiarity with Kerala resulted in a smooth road trip broadly as follows:Day 1: Kochi International Airport (A) to Idukki (B); 125 KM / 4 hours; stay at friends place in IdukkiDay 2: Idukki (B) to Periyar National Park (C); 30 KM/ 1 hour; stay inside the National ParkDay 3: Periyar National Park (C) to Munnar (D); 100 KM/ 3 hours; stay in MunnarDay 4: Munnar (D) to Kochi International Airport (A); 100 KM/ 3.5 hoursWhile the total distance covered during the four days was less than 400 KMs, the hilly terrain and narrow roads, for the most part, made the travel a time consuming affair. The WR-V made it very comfortable though, and the breathtaking scenery of the Western Ghats made the trip a memorable one.One other mutual friend and I arrived at Kochi International airport on the first day, where banker was ready with his WR-V for picking us up. We drove through the mesmerizing roads along the hills to reach a place called as Idukki, where banker was stationed.Idukki is a place which lies amid the Cardamom Hills of Western Ghats in Kerala. As per the Government of Kerala's website, and evident to us during the trip, Idukki has a vast forest reserve area which make it a stunning place. After reaching his place in Idukki we had a few light moments of catching up, cooking and eating together, and just chatting for a long time.We started early next morning for Periyar Tiger Reserve, which was close by. This wildlife sanctuary is home to tigers and elephants, as well as rare lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards and Indian bison. I am not sure if we spotted these fantastic creatures, but what we realised was how truly spectacular the sanctuary was. I think our national parks are very underrated tourist destinations. Whether it be Gir in the West, Kanha in the East or Periyar in the south, and so many more across India; these national parks are truly worth exploringOur car was allowed inside for some distance, after which we hopped on a ferry to cross the Periyar lake as the place where we were supposed to stay - Kerala Tourism Development Corporation's (KTDC) Lake Palace, was located on the other side, within the immense Tiger Reserve.We stayed at the beautiful property, explored the nearby areas and went on a namesake safari, which was again on a ferry.We were treated to some delicious Malayali cuisine. As they say, a trip in any part of India is incomplete without taking delight in the local cuisine. While hailing from North India, I have really enjoyed Malayali cuisine, whenever I have gotten a chance. Few years back, I had the greatest fortune of enjoying a Sadhya meal in a friend's wedding in Trivandrum. Sadhya is a feast consisting of a variety of traditional vegetarian dishes usually served on a banana leaf.After having well rested, we started for Munnar the next morning. We were already thoroughly impressed with the views we had encountered in the first two days. However, it wasn't enough it seems, as the journey to Munnar was through some of the most awe-inspiring roads in India which I have seen.We reached Munnar just in time for lunch. By this time, we were slightly tired. We had lunch at KTDC Tea County, where we were staying, and amidst the cloudy weather we didn't want to venture out and decided to take some rest. In the evening we roamed around the beautiful property. It was really pleasing to note how amazing and well managed some of the KTDC properties are.Next morning we started for Kochi International Airport. Once there, with a heavy heart, we bid goodbye to banker and to Kerala, and boarded our flights home; grateful for all the memories from Last edited by scorpi0N : 23rd May 2024 at 20:50 .
Something to look forward to: Microsoft has spent months teasing the next major Windows 11 update in the Canary and Dev preview channels. With 24H2's entrance into the Release Preview channel, we now have a clear picture of what the OS version will offer most users when it reaches general availability later this year. This update will include several new features and improvements, but the much talked about AI capabilities will be exclusive to Microsoft's new Copilot+ PCs.

Windows 11 24H2 is now available to users in the Release Preview channel. This update includes new features such as native support for 7z, HDR backgrounds, Wi-Fi 7, and more. The new build closely resembles the update most Windows 11 users will receive later in 2024.

Release Preview users can manually download the update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update, where the option appears near the top of the page. Those interested in joining the Release Preview channel can sign up here.

Businesses participating in Windows Insider can also obtain the 24H2 update through Windows Update for Business and Windows Server Update Service. Availability on the Azure Marketplace will come soon. Insiders can also download an ISO of the Release Preview version.

File Explorer now allows users to compress files into 7z and TAR formats without third-party software. Compared to the traditional ZIP format, 7z offers higher compression rates and stronger encryption, while TAR is useful for large data sets.

Another important addition is Sudo, a feature typically associated with Linux that allows users to run high-level commands from normal accounts. It can be enabled under System > For developers > Enable Sudo.

More information about 24H2's new features will be available as the general release draws closer. So far, Microsoft has mentioned Wi-Fi 7, Rust in the Windows kernel, improved support for low-energy Bluetooth devices, voice clarity, HDR backgrounds, and other features.

Reports from last year indicated that AI would be a major focus for the next Windows 11 update. However, Microsoft will restrict headline AI functions like Recall to its new Copilot+ PCs. These new laptops from the Surface lineup and other vendors leverage NPUs and Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors to run generative AI applications with limited reliance on cloud servers. These features may come to other PCs once upcoming chips like Intel's Arrow Lake start shipping.

All Canary, Dev, and Beta channel users will soon receive a new version of Microsoft's Copilot software, which will be pinned to the taskbar. It can be manipulated like a normal app window, and Microsoft plans to introduce further updates based on user feedback.

Microsoft hasn't revealed an exact general release date for Windows 11 24H2, but it is expected to arrive during the second half of this year.
Why it matters: PC parts, including graphics cards, motherboards, and even PC cases, look set to increase in price by as much as 25% as the Biden administration prepares to resume all the Trump-era tariffs placed on Chinese goods following a five-month delay.

It was back in 2018 when then-President Trump told the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) to create tariffs of up to 25% on Chinese-manufactured goods. The 437 affected products included components used in the manufacture of PCBs and computer hardware, including graphics cards.

Trump himself suspended the tariffs from September 2019 until January 2021, after which point graphics card prices increased. The Biden administration created an exclusion list of 350 products in 2022 that included graphics cards and motherboards. This was supposed to last until December 2022, but the US Trade Representative (USTR) extended the pause for nine months, which later became twelve months.

US gamers breathed a sigh of relief in January when the USTR delayed re-imposing the full tariffs on Chinese goods for another five months as it sought industry feedback and considered modifications.

Those five months are now up. As reported by PCMag, the USTR has recommended to the White House that the "tariffs on covered products be maintained." This includes tariff codes 8473.30.1180 and 8473.30.5100, which cover graphics cards, motherboards, and desktop PC cases.

The White House has yet to officially state it is reinstating all the tariffs, and there's no indication of when this might happen. But with the Biden administration recently announcing an upcoming tariff increase on some Chinese-made goods, including electric vehicles and semiconductors, expect the re-introduction to come sooner rather than later.

In December 2021, Nvidia, Zotac, and Dell urged the Biden administration to make their products exempt from the tariffs as they were not manufactured in the US and in only limited amounts in Taiwan. Nvidia noted that efforts to produce the goods in other locations had been unsuccessful. The pleas came at a time when the pandemic was having a devastating effect on the GPU industry.

All graphics card manufacturers rely on China for at least some of their products' components, while many peripherals are manufactured entirely in the Asian nation. If you're planning on making a PC-related purchase, it might be better to do it now rather than wait a few more months.
Forcing AI for everyone: Google has been rolling out AI Overviews to US users over the last several days. While the company claims that the AI summaries that appear at the top of search results are mostly correct and fact-based, an alarming number of users have encountered so-called hallucinations  when an LLM states a falsehood as fact. Users are far from impressed.

In my early testing of Google's experimental feature, I found the blurbs more obnoxious than helpful. They appear at the top of the results page, so I must scroll down to get to the material I want. They are frequently incorrect in the finer details and often plagiarize an article word for word.

These annoyances prompted me to write last week's article explaining several ways to bypass the intrusive feature now that Google is shoving it down our throats with no off switch.

And now that AI Overviews has had a few days to percolate in the public, users are finding many examples where the feature simply fails.

Social media is flooded with funny and obvious examples of Google's AI trying too hard. Keep in mind that people tend to shout when things go wrong and remain silent when they work as advertised.

"The examples we've seen are generally very uncommon queries and aren't representative of most people's experiences," a Google spokesperson told Ars Technica. "The vast majority of AI Overviews provide high quality information, with links to dig deeper on the web."

While it may be true that most people have good summaries, how many bad ones are allowed before they are considered untrustworthy? In an era where everyone is screaming about misinformation, including Google, it would seem that the company would care more about the bad examples than patting itself on the back over the good ones  especially when its Overviews are telling people that running with scissors is good cardio.

AI entrepreneur Kyle Balmer highlights some funnier examples in a quick X video (below).

Google AI overview is a nightmare. Looks like they rushed it out the door. Now the internet is having a field day. Heres are some of the best examples https://t.co/ie2whhQdPi  Kyle Balmer (@iamkylebalmer) May 24, 2024

It is important to note that some of these responses are intentionally adversarial. For example, in this one posted by Ars Technica the word "fluid" has no business being in the search other than to reference the old troll/joke, "you need to change your blinker fluid."

The joke has existed since I was in high school shop class, but in its attempt to provide an answer that encompasses all of the search terms, Google's AI picked up the idea from a troll on the Good Sam Community Forum.

How about listing some actresses who are in their 50s?

google's AI is so smart, it's honestly scary pic.twitter.com/7aa68Vo3dw  Joe Kwaczala (@joekjoek) May 19, 2024

While .250 is an okay batting average, one out of four does not make an accurate list. Also, I bet Elon Musk would be surprised to find out that he graduated from the University of California, Berkeley. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, he actually received two degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. The closest he got to Berkeley was two days at Stanford before dropping out.

The same kind of error is unfortunately trivial to produce, eg, tech ceos who went to Berkeley. pic.twitter.com/mDVXT714C7  MMitchell (@mmitchell_ai) May 22, 2024

Blatantly obvious errors or suggestions, like mixing glue with your pizza sauce to keep your cheese from falling off, will not likely cause anybody harm. However, if you need serious and accurate answers, even one wrong summary is enough to make this feature untrustworthy. And if you can't trust it and must fact-check it by looking at the regular search results, then why is it above everything else saying, "Pay attention to me?"

Part of the problem is what AI Overviews considers a trustworthy source. While Reddit can be an excellent place for a human to find answers to a question, it's not so good for an AI that can't distinguish between fact, fan fiction, and satire. So when it sees someone insensitively and glibly saying that "jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge" can cure someone of their depression, the AI can't understand that the person was trolling.

Another part of the problem is that Google is rushing out Overviews while in panic mode to compete with OpenAI. There are better ways to do that than by sullying its reputation as the leader in search engines by forcing users to wade through nonsense they didn't ask for. At the very least, it should be an optional feature, if not an entirely separate product.

Enthusiasts, including Google's PR team, say, "It's only going to get better with time."

That may be, but I have used (read: tolerated) the feature since January, when it was still optional, and have seen little change in the quality of its output. So, jumping on the bandwagon doesn't cut it for me. Google is too widely used and trusted for that.
The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office stated Thursday that a Louisiana political consultant was charged with a fraudulent robocall impersonating US President Joe Biden to deter Democratic primary voters.



Steven Kramer, 54, faces 13 felony voter suppression charges and misdemeanor counts for impersonating a candidate after thousands of New Hampshire residents received a robocall asking them not to vote until November, according to Reuters.



On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommended a $6 million punishment for the robocalls, which employed an AI-generated deepfake Joe Biden voice. The FCC prohibits sending erroneous caller ID information. It also requested a $2 million sanction for Lingo Telecom, which transmitted the Biden robocall.



Washington worries that AI-generated information might mislead voters in November polls. Before the elections, some US senators campaigned for AI-related electoral integrity laws.



Attorney General John Formella reiterated New Hampshire's commitment to ensure that the upcoming US elections "remain free from unlawful interference" and that their investigation persists.



On Wednesday, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel recommended mandating disclaimers for AI-generated material in radio and TV political commercials, including candidate and issue ads, but not banning it.

AI Deepfakes to Impact 2024 US Elections But Not Enough Safeguards

The FCC expects AI to play a major role in 2024 election advertising, notably through deceptive "deep fakes," which are manipulated photos, videos, or audio recordings that misrepresent persons or events.



While AI-generated broadcast content challenges are addressed by this measure, for voters, AI deepfakes are more common online than in traditional media, and government restrictions for digital advertisements are lacking.



According to a Wired story, Public Citizen petitioned the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to require disclosures for all political commercials, regardless of media, similar to the FCC's plan. The FEC has not responded, but a January Washington Post article said it will rule by early summer.



This month, the US Senate Rules Committee advanced three AI election regulation proposals, including disclosure requirements, but they might not pass in time to have an impact.

US Rivals May Use AI Deepfakes to Influence 2024 Election: FBI

Implementing AI disclosure laws requires 166 days until the US presidential election. This urgency grows as Biden, Donald Trump, and down-ballot candidates increase social media ad expenditures. In the meantime, tech corporations will lead the fight against election disinformation without government rules.



Early this month, a top FBI official cautioned that the US' foreign opponents might use AI to influence the 2024 elections and spread disinformation, calling the technology "likely to see growth over the coming years," as previously reported by TechTimes.



According to authorities, AI technology reduces criminal protection and allows more sophisticated foreign governments to influence elections. Russia, Iran, and China top the FBI's election-year fears. Officials have attributed these nations' impact on US elections to various motives.



Intelligence officials say Russia hacked and published Democratic emails to boost Trump in 2016 and 2020. According to a new intelligence community investigation, Russia attempted to harm the Democratic Party in the 2022 midterms to lower US support for Ukraine and voter trust.



According to the report, China targeted its critics and discreetly blasted a US senator for influencing various battles between both main political parties. The report also accused Iran of using social divisions for covert purposes.



FBI officials expect China to divide the 2024 elections and are considering how the Ukraine situation would affect Russia.




Rumors are now spinning around Apple's plans for a foldable M5 MacBook and a new Vision Pro device coming by 2026, touting massive changes for both devices coming in less than two years.

There were previous talks about a foldable MacBook that would no longer have its keyboards and would be replaced with an entire touchscreen display from top to bottom.

On the other hand, the Vision Pro is still a young device, with version two not yet in the books for Apple anytime soon, but the latest spill says it is coming real soon.

Kuo: Apple Planning a Foldable M5 MacBook

Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the most prolific Apple analysts, shared massive details and rumors behind a foldable M5 MacBook that will be available by 2026, offering a new age for the computer.

First, the M5 MacBook would have multiple foldable screen options, including the 20.3-inch and 18.8-inch sizes when fully opened. The 20.3-inch would be the same size as the 14- to 15-inch MacBooks now available.

On the other hand, the 18.8-inch size would resemble the more compact 13 to 14-inch MacBook Air.

This release would feature the first iteration of the M5 chip, its fifth mainline release in the series.

Lastly, Apple wants to make it crease-free, creating a seamless display that would not bother users.

Read Also : Apple is Testing Foldable iPhones But Face Challenges, Coming Later than Expected

Vision Pro Price for the M5 MacBook?

However, the crease-free development would already cost Apple around $600 to $650 for the 20.3-inch variant and $200 to $250 for the 18.8-inch display.

These massive costs for the foldable MacBook's components may mean it will be more expensive, but it could be the same price as the Vision Pro, which costs $3,500.

Apple Foldable and Wearable

Apple is not massive on foldables now, but certain rumors claim it is not closed for this technology in the future, especially with significant speculations behind a foldable iPhone development, in the works.

However, it is not only that, as Apple is also allegedly working on a 20-inch foldable MacBook, according to its rival Samsung, and it previously said that it is working with LG for this project.

It was initially believed to be a folding display for the iPad that would expand more of the tablet's widescreen, but there is uncertainty behind it.

Shortly after the Apple Vision Pro's release in February 2024, there were already massive speculations about the device's future based on Cupertino's developments.

It was reported that it would take Apple four Vision Pro releases in the future before the headset reaches its "ideal form," claiming that the first one is not yet the targeted goal for the XR wearable.

The one sure thing about Apple's tech development is there are many uncertainties behind its work as it is secretive, but analysts like Kuo share massive speculations and rumors, including the possible foldable M5 MacBooks and a new Vision Pro coming this 2026.
A United States legislator has voiced his concern about the possible national security implications of the recent high-profile deal between tech giant Microsoft and a United Arab Emirates-based artificial intelligence firm, G42.

Given that the Chinese Communist Party has interests in the UAE, Michael McCaul, the Republican chairman of the US House of Representatives' foreign affairs committee, expressed concern that, despite the agreement's significant national security implications, Congress has not yet received a thorough briefing about it from the executive branch.

The new deal can potentially relocate vital US tech infrastructure to the UAE.





The concerns come after Brad Smith of Microsoft stated that the sales agreement with G42-many of which are being revealed here for the first time move forward to a second stage that involves the export of essential AI technology parts, like model weights, which are the jewel in the crown of AI systems and determine their level of power.

According to Smith, there is no set schedule for the second stage.

According to US officials, AI systems may provide threats to national security by, for instance, making it simpler to develop biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons.

Legality of US AI Exports

The Commerce Department already requires export licenses and notices in some areas to ship AI chips outside the United States. However, as regulators scramble to keep up with rapidly evolving technology, the Microsoft-G42 merger exposes legal loopholes in the United States.

Although McCaul and a bipartisan group of congressmen this week pushed legislation that would give US officials greater explicit power to export AI models, there is currently no regulation barring the practice.

Microsoft officials stated that while the company supports discussions about a new legal framework that would regulate the transfer of AI technology, the agreement with G42 obliges the UAE company to abide by U.S. regulations as they change.

Projected US AI Restrictions

Concerns from US lawmakers arose just a few weeks after reports surfaced that the Biden Administration intended to limit access to US artificial intelligence models and software from nations like China and Russia.

Three persons with knowledge of the matter have stated that the Commerce Department is considering launching a new regulatory campaign to restrict the shipment abroad of closed-source or proprietary AI models, whose development data and software are kept confidential.

The Chinese Embassy said China strongly disagreed with the decision and would take the required steps to protect its interests. It condemned the move as the epitome of unilateral intimidation and economic coercion.

Right now, nothing is stopping US AI giants like Microsoft-backed OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google DeepMind from developing some of the most powerful closed-source AI models and offering them for sale to almost anybody globally without government interference.

Related Article : Microsoft Asks Around 800 Staff to Leave China as Sino-US Relations Worsen

(Photo: Tech Times)
The United States is reportedly looking to put a stop to sexually abusive artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes by calling on companies to voluntarily cooperate in prohibiting the problematic AI capability.

In the absence of government legislation, the White House is requesting corporations to cooperate voluntarily on Thursday.

Officials expect that by agreeing to a set of particular steps, the commercial sector will be able to stop the production, distribution, and monetization of these kinds of nonconsensual AI photos, which include explicit photographs of children.





Additionally, the White House advised that tech companies should impose restrictions on web services and apps that purport to give users the ability to make and modify sexual photographs without the consent of the subject.

Similarly, cloud service providers can forbid explicit deepfake websites and applications from using their services.

It is now simple to turn someone's likeness into a sexually explicit AI deepfake using new generative AI techniques and to disseminate those lifelike images on social media or in chat rooms. Whether they are youngsters or celebrities, the victims have few options for putting an end to it.

The White House claims that image-based sexual assault is one of the damaging applications of AI that is expanding the fastest at this time, based on reports.

Additionally, malicious actors can use AI to spread actual non-consensual photographs at startlingly high speeds and volumes.

Read Also : Pedophiles Use AI to Create Children Deepfake Nudes for Extortion, Dark Web Discovery Reveals

Officials Behind the Call

White House officials Arati Prabhakar, the director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Jennifer Klein, the head of the Gender Policy Council, wrote the proclamation.

In a phone interview, Prabhakar informed sources that the White House is hoping that businesses linked to the increase in image-based sexual assault will act swiftly and decisively to put an end to it.

AI Deepfake Cases

Worries about AI-generated sexual imagery continue to be heard all across the world. In April of last year, students in London demanded that education be oriented around artificial intelligence with an emphasis on preventing fake nudes rather than merely exam cheating.

The London Police launched an inquiry after fictitious student nudes were made and circulated. Even though she is unaware of the perpetrators, one of the students who claimed to have been the victim of AI-generated images of herself in the nude says she feels ashamed of her friends' actions.

Though the youngster says it's "super frustrating," and they want people to believe it is not them, even knowing that it is not them makes it embarrassing. The teenager said that although educators forbid students from utilizing artificial intelligence to cheat on tests or assignments, they hardly ever address the more crafty and creative ways in which it might be used.

In Tasmania, Australia, a man recently made history by being the first person to be charged with child abuse using material created by artificial intelligence in his jurisdiction.

Following the discovery of hundreds of illegal AI-generated videos that he had downloaded, uploaded, and owned, the 48-year-old man was found guilty.

The Gravelly Beach guy pled guilty on March 26, 2024, to having access to and holding onto child abuse materials following his arrest and prosecution.
Tech giant Elon Musk, speaking at the tech conference VivaTech 2024, predicted that artificial intelligence's future could mean employment is optional for people as both AI and robots will be the ones to provide services for necessities.

However, Musk reportedly clarified that "universal high income"-not to be mistaken with universal basic income would be necessary for this scenario to succeed.

While UBI refers to the government providing a set amount of money to all citizens regardless of their income, UHI is a concept that imagines a society in which artificial intelligence lowers the cost of labor, enabling everyone to purchase necessities.





Musk described his greatest concern in the technology at Thursday's keynote address. The most realistic and greatest depiction of a future AI, according to him, is the "Culture Book Series" by Ian Banks, a utopian dramatized look at a society run by advanced technology.

Musk, however, questioned if people would have emotional fulfillment in a world without jobs. He questioned whether life would still have a purpose if computers and robots could perform all tasks more effectively than humans. He continues by saying that he believes that humans may still have a part in this because they may give AI purpose.

Read Also: Intelligence Agencies Continue to Warn About AI's Threat on Election Security

Musk's Warning on AI's Electricity Demand

The tech giant has long expressed his concerns about the advancement of artificial intelligence. Last March, Elon Musk issued a warning over the possible effects of AI on transformer supply and electricity.

Elon Musk stressed the urgent need for the industry to prioritize clean energy generation and accelerate the manufacturing of electrical transformers to quell the supply issue, which he predicted could occur next year, in a Q&A session that closed the Bosch Connected World conference.

The tech billionaire mentioned how quickly AI is developing as well as electronic cars, pointing out that this pace seems unheard of. The demand for AI-related technology is greater than it has ever been, according to the CEO of Tesla, who likened the rate of technical growth to historical gold rushes.

Musk acknowledged the possible risks connected to AI, but he stated that he would rather see the advancements personally than stay away from them. He also emphasized the lack of neural net chips that existed a year ago and forecasted that voltage step-down transformers-which are necessary to run AI systems-would be the next source of congestion.

He predicted that by 2025, there might not be enough electricity to run the growing number of AI chips. In the end, Musk's comments emphasized how urgently more clean energy must be produced to meet demand from EVs and AI.

AI's Societal Risk

The billionaire also noted in November 2023 that he felt AI posed a "civilizational risk," pointing out that the repercussions of AI gone wrong would be dire and that "we" needed to take preventative measures rather than reactive ones.

When asked if AI will wipe out humanity, Elon Musk responded that there is a chance; he stressed that he believes it is slim that AI will wipe out humanity. He also said that, even in the unlikely event that there is a probability, humans should take into account the fragility of human civilization.

Related Article: Top Japanese Companies Demand AI Regulation: "Democracy and Social Order Could Collapse"
Nissan executives have reportedly confirmed that artificial intelligence was used to design the company's 2025 Nissan Qashqai as well as improve production in terms of machinery maintenance and identify errors.

Speaking to the media at Nissan's Sunderland, UK, facility, European Vice President of Design Matthew Weaver explained that AI was used in the design of the new Qashqai's front grille because of the intricate patterning in the structure and the need for aerodynamics and cooling.





Mr. Weaver made light of the seemingly endless trend of producing bigger and bigger grills, noting that Nissan's "V motion grille" on the latest Qashqai is now wider and features a pattern resembling that of its predecessor.

The advantages of AI in the grille design process allow for numerous iterations that balance aesthetic appeal with the car's cooling and aerodynamic needs.

AI-Assisted Automaking

Regarding the application of AI in production, Friederike Kienitz, a senior Nissan executive, stated that machine learning in the company's new plants enables more precise forecasting of when robot maintenance is needed or when trends of production errors are identified.

With machine learning and robots now developing to the point where they can identify and correct patterns of manufacturing problems without human interaction, Nissan is not alone in utilizing AI throughout its manufacturing and design process.

The senior team at Nissan declined to comment on whether the growing use of automation and artificial intelligence will ultimately result in a reduction in the number of workers; they only said that, for example, the Sunderland factory's current headcount of roughly 6000 employees is probably going to stay that way despite projections for production growth.

AI-Powered Cars

While Nissan demonstrates how artificial intelligence is being used in the creation process, Honda and IBM recently inked a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the long-term research and development of next-generation computing technology, which includes processors and software for future cars.

Previous reports state that the companies anticipate a significant acceleration of the use of AI in vehicles in 2030 and beyond. They also see opportunities for developing software-defined vehicles (SDV), driven by software "rather than enhanced by it" as automakers vie for developing autonomous driving technology.

SDV functionality can be updated remotely, just like smartphone software. Both companies anticipate a growth in SDV demand. Their work lowers power consumption and increases chip processing capabilities.

Japanese company Honda committed a record 1.19 trillion yen ($7.7 billion) to research and development for the fiscal year that ends in March, a 23% increase over the previous year.

According to comments made by Honda President Toshihiro Mibe at a press conference, SDVs and electric automobiles are research priorities. The business will concentrate more on development for electrification and software intelligence.



According to a Honda insider, one manufacturer cannot create and improve complicated software technology alone, which is why agreements like the one with the US IT major IBM are crucial.

Related Article : Hyundai Doubles Down on EV Commitment, Cites the Need to Distinguish Itself From Competitors

(Photo: Tech Times)
NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has made a fascinating discovery, locating a new exoplanet that falls in size between Earth and Venus. This finding has piqued the interest of astronomers, as it could be further explored using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

NASA Tess Finds Closest Temperate, Earth-Size Exoplanet

Masayuki Kuzuhara, a project assistant professor at the Astrobiology Center in Tokyo, who, alongside Akihiko Fukui from the University of Tokyo, led one of the research teams, noted that they have found "the nearest, transiting, temperate, Earth-size world located to date."

Kuzuhara compared the exoplanet to Venus, suggesting it is similar in size and solar energy to our neighboring planet within the solar system. Utilizing observations from TESS and various other observatories, two international teams of astronomers have pinpointed a planet roughly the size of Earth or slightly smaller.

Named Gliese 12 b, this exoplanet orbits a cool red dwarf star located nearly 40 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Pisces. It also has an orbital period of 12.8 days and resides within a distance comparable to 7% of the Earth-Sun gap.

Despite its proximity to its host star, Gliese 12 b is not too dissimilar in size from Earth or Venus. Without an atmosphere, its surface temperature is estimated to be around 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius).

Astronomers view it as an exo-Venus, owing to its size and the amount of energy it receives from its star, which resembles Venus in our solar system. According to NASA, red dwarf stars like Gliese 12 are particularly promising targets for discovering Earth-sized planets.

Their smaller size and mass make them more conducive to detecting the subtle dimming caused by transits and the gravitational wobble induced by orbiting planets. Additionally, their habitable zones, where liquid water could exist, are closer to them, making detecting planets within these zones easier.

Read Also : NASA Discovers Unlikely Large Planet That Should Have Been Destroyed by Its Orbiting Star

Earth-Size Exoplanets Orbiting Cool Stars

Shishir Dholakia, a doctoral candidate at the Centre for Astrophysics at the University of Southern Queensland in Australia, who co-led a separate research team with Larissa Palethorpe from the University of Edinburgh and University College London, noted that the planet offers a unique opportunity to investigate the ability of Earth-size planets orbiting cool stars to maintain their atmospheres.

By analyzing the atmospheric composition of this planet, scientists hope to gain insights into the evolutionary pathways of planetary atmospheres and their potential for supporting life.

While red dwarf stars are known for their magnetic activity, Gliese 12 appears relatively calm, with no signs of extreme behavior. According to NASA, this makes it an ideal candidate for studying exoplanetary atmospheres.

"We know of only a handful of temperate planets similar to Earth that are both close enough to us and meet other criteria needed for this kind of study, called transmission spectroscopy, using current facilities," Michael McElwain, a research astrophysicist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, said in a statement.

"To better understand the diversity of atmospheres and evolutionary outcomes for these planets, we need more examples like Gliese 12 b," he added.




Every time a juvenile offender in Cumberland County is considered dangerous enough to need detainment, it starts a game of musical chairs  or, in this case, beds.

Probation officers call more than a dozen detention centers and shelters to see if a spot is available for the juvenile to stay until their first court appearance. The problem: There are rarely enough open beds.

When one cant be found, the offender is usually just sent home, back into the community where they may have committed the crime, with an ankle monitor that doesnt guarantee custody.

This is a statewide dilemma, and it takes a toll on everyone involved: the juvenile who needs rehabilitation, the community and victim who need protection and the probation staff who are overloaded.

Were playing the shell game every single day that we come to work, said Andy Benner, Cumberland Countys chief juvenile probation officer.

Bed shortage risks public safety

Detention of juveniles is rare, mainly reserved for the highest offenders or repeat offenders. After arrest, a juvenile who isnt released can spend up to 72 hours in detention before their first hearing.

Cumberland County saw 590 juvenile allegations last year, Benner said, and probation officers tried to place 17 of those offenders in detention.

This decision is informed by the individuals PaDRAI score (PA Detention Risk Assessment Instrument, pronounced like the Spanish padre). It assesses a juveniles risk of reoffending before their court appearance or just failing to show up to it.

Serious and violent offenders  for those accused of rape, firearms and aggravated assault  tend to score high. Previous offenses, drug use and a history of running away from home can also increase the score.

Cumberland County probation officers last year couldnt find beds for 12 of the 17 juveniles they wanted to detain based on their score, so those dozen offenders were released back into their communities while awaiting court.

I would say its 12 times that we received a phone call from a police officer, it was a case that we felt for the safety of the public this youth should be detained, and we didnt have that option available and had to make another decision to put that youth back in the community on EM, Benner said.

EM is electronic monitoring (an ankle monitor). Other options include expedited intake and community-based programs to at least provide some oversight and supervision. But none guarantee more security than detention.

In general, I would just say it creates a significant public risk to the community, Benner said.

Since the cost to operate detention centers has risen, the Pennsylvania Juvenile Court Judges Commission reported last year, 15 closed between 2006 and 2021. Staffing shortages during the pandemic also hurt facilities.

Liability insurance was among the main costs, Benner said, as were costs to adapt facilities to COVID-19 protocols. There was also less need for secure detention statewide: down 55% from 2018 to 2022, due mostly to pandemic social distancing, but also increased use of risk assessment tools and detention alternatives.

Supply and demand decreased together, Benner said, but now he believes there are too many offenders and too few facilities, especially locally. Last year, a detention center closed in Franklin County that Benners staff had used for detentions for more than a decade.

A game of musical beds

Cumberland County needs, on average, 1.58 open beds on any given day, according to last years judges commission report. That number is based on admissions and average length of stay. For Cumberland County detainees the average stay is 17 days in detention, Benner said.

The county does not own or operate any juvenile facilities, so it coordinates with youth shelters and detention centers around the state  and even one in Ohio  to place offenders.

Abraxas South Mountain, a shelter in Franklin County, and the Childrens Home of Reading, another shelter, have contracts with Cumberland County for a bed each, Benner said.

Theyre among 15 places that probation officers call when needing to detain a juvenile, Benner said, with each instance being like a game of musical chairs.

Cumberland County has not yet had to transport a juvenile to the Ohio facility, which is the county detention center in Steubenville, a short drive from the state line. But Benners staff will take any viable option.

If it means two of our staff driving four to six hours to another state for a juvenile detention bed, he said, if thats what we have to do to keep our community safe, then thats what well do.

The farthest Cumberland County has transported a juvenile offender so far was three hours one way, he said.

This game of musical beds doesnt always end when a bed is secured. If another county supersedes Cumberland, Benners staff has 24 hours to find another place for that juvenile. Facilities can also decide not to take juveniles from other counties.

Its basically, You can use it til we need it, said Cumberland County Senior Deputy District Attorney Glenn Parno, who leads juvenile prosecution.

Juvenile court records  unlike adult records  are sealed, which means officials couldnt discuss specific cases with The Sentinel. They are certain, however, of the risk to public safety.

Im quite confident that there have been juveniles who have re-offended while on house arrest in lieu of detention, Parno said.

Help, not punishment

Juvenile court is different than adult court. For example, juveniles dont get a jury trial. Instead, a judge holds a finding-of-fact hearing before ruling. Presumption of innocence is still in effect, though, including the beyond a reasonable doubt principle.

The juvenile system is designed for rehabilitation instead of punishment. Thus, Parno said, the detention bed shortage can wrinkle juvenile offenders path to recovery.

Being detained hours away from family can take an emotional toll, but being released back home when the juvenile could benefit from detentions controlled environment can entice them to cut off their ankle bracelet or reoffend, further damaging their record.

So, what do you do? Parno said. Well, you pick them up with the thought, OK, were going to detain them, and youre right back to square one: Where are the beds? So, its sort of a vicious cycle.

Both Parno and Benner said Cumberland County is fortunate to have dodged any catastrophic re-offenses, but theyre concerned about this proverbial time bomb.

I think were just  were tempting fate by sending these kids back and not detaining them, Parno said.

That risk is on top of the burden this bed shortage has on county coffers as costs rack up for labor hours and transportation, as well as the burden on victims.

You wouldnt want to know that your assailant is now living down the street from you again and just has an ankle monitor between you and them, Parno said. And maybe they keep it on and maybe they abide by the rules of house arrest, and maybe they dont.

When sent back into their community, a juvenile also faces the risk of being retaliated against. Detention doesnt just keep victims and the public secure, it can also help the offender.

Once a juvenile goes through court proceedings more services are available  like psychological help or drug and alcohol treatment  to keep them from reoffending, Parno said. And some of these rehabilitative services can start while theyre detained.

If we cant get kids services to rehabilitate them, we cant keep the community safe, Parno said.

Possible solutions

Last years report by the juvenile court judges commission confirms that Cumberland Countys problem is a statewide problem.

Access to beds is down, the commission found, and even when beds are available, the facility is oftentimes hours away, which limits the contact juveniles have to their attorney, their family, their schools and other community services, according to the report.

As of last spring, just 13 facilities in Pennsylvania provide secure detention.

Two in three juvenile probation departments in Pennsylvania cant meet their daily need, according to a statewide survey of chief juvenile probation officers last year. Nearly half have no immediate access to detention beds if needed, and 61% travel more than an hour to the nearest available detention center.

Facilities have also closed because of documented and proven instances of abuse against juveniles staying there, said Malik Pickett, senior attorney at the Juvenile Law Center, a Philadelphia nonprofit firm advocating for juvenile rights.

Its good to close bad facilities, Pickett said, but doing so widens a central snag in the juvenile detention thread: there are too many youths in the system. This means what looks like a bed shortage can really be overcrowding.

Youth that enter the system are more likely to come back to the system for a repeat offense, Pickett said, as opposed to youth that are given diversion programs or are able to stay in their communities and receive in-home services and things like that.

A top reason for this overcrowding, he said, is juveniles being detained not for a violent offense but for inability to pay court fines. Thus, if these juveniles who likely dont pose a threat to their communities can be sent home, it would leave more beds open for violent offenders who do need to be detained.

The most common-sense solution on the table right now, Pickett said, is House Bill 1381, introduced last fall by state Rep. Dan Miller, D-Allegheny. It would implement recommendations from the Pennsylvania Juvenile Justice Task Force, including shrinking the criteria to detain juveniles.

That would help unclog some of the numbers, Pickett said, because we wouldnt be sending youth to secure detention for these very minor offenses.

If that solution is on the supply side, Benner sees one on the demand side: More detention centers, especially with the funding to stay open and keep a professional staff thats paid competitive wages.

Cumberland County probation officers longest drives right now tend to be about 90 minutes one way, he said, transporting juveniles to the Abraxas Academy detention center outside Reading.

Its not Ohio, but its still not ideal.

The state, advocates and companies are meeting to solve the bed shortage, said Benner, who is also vice president of the Pennsylvania Council of Chief Juvenile Probation Officers. He wants every county to have a detention center within an hours drive.

How do we get to a point where all the beds that are available are fully staffed and made accessible to everyone across the state in some type of equal fashion? he said.
Researchers studying data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope observed three galaxies that appear to be actively forming when the universe was only 400 to 600 million years old.

These galaxies are enveloped in gas, primarily hydrogen and helium, which are the earliest elements to exist in the cosmos. Webb's highly sensitive instruments detected this dense gas surrounding the galaxies, suggesting it would fuel the creation of new stars.

Ancient Galaxies Are Like 'Sparkling Islands in a Sea of Neutral, Opaque Gas'

Kasper Heintz, an astrophysics professor at the Cosmic Dawn Center (DAWN) at the University of Copenhagen, described the ancient galaxies as "sparkling islands in a sea of neutral, opaque gas."

The sensitivity of James Webb's instruments allowed researchers to observe these early galaxies and gain insights into their formation, a previously unattainable feat. Simone Nielsen, a PhD student at DAWN, noted that these observations challenge the previous notion of galaxies as isolated systems.

At this early stage in the universe's history, galaxies are intricately linked to the intergalactic medium, consisting of filaments and pristine gas structures. This connection underscores the interconnected nature of galaxies and the surrounding medium during this formative period.

NASA said these early galaxies appear as faint red smudges in Webb's photos, making additional data crucial for the team's conclusions. These spectra show that light from these galaxies is being absorbed by huge amounts of neutral hydrogen gas.

Darach Watson, a professor at DAWN, noted that this widespread gas likely represents the initial assembly of neutral hydrogen into galaxies, which will eventually cool, clump, and generate new stars.

Read Also : NASA James Webb Space Telescope May Have Solved the Cosmic Mystery of an Inflated Exoplanet

Galaxies Full of Young Stars

The universe experienced major changes several hundred million years after the Big Bang, during a period known as the Era of Reionization. During this era, the space between stars and galaxies was predominantly opaque.

It wasn't until approximately one billion years post-Big Bang that this space transitioned to full transparency. According to NASA, the stars within galaxies played a pivotal role in this process by heating and ionizing the surrounding gas, gradually leading to its complete transparency.

By comparing Webb's data with models of star formation, researchers deduced that these galaxies largely consist of young stars. Watson noted that the presence of extensive gas reservoirs suggests that the galaxies have not yet had enough time to generate most of their stars.

Despite these findings, numerous questions persist. Researchers are eager to determine the precise locations of the gas within these galaxies, whether it congregates near their cores or resides in their peripheries.

They also seek to ascertain whether the gas is in a pristine state or already contains heavier elements. Heintz noted that the next phase involves constructing extensive statistical samples of galaxies to assess the prevalence and significance of these characteristics.

According to NASA, extensive research remains ahead as scientists continue to explore the enigmas of the early universe, utilizing the powerful infrared eyes of the James Webb Space Telescope. The findings of the research team were published in the journal Science.




Former TikTok CEO and Candle Media co-CEO Kevin Mayer believes that the excitement surrounding artificial intelligence has hit an all-time high. Speaking at the VivaTech conference in Paris, Mayer discussed the current state of AI valuations, describing them as "astronomical."

Is the AI just all about hype at the moment?

Understanding the Underlying Value of AI

Mayer acknowledges the significant value that AI brings, likening it to past technological innovations such as the metaverse and blockchain. However, he cautions that a "stabilization" in valuations is likely on the horizon.

For Mayer, AI has yet to show other capabilities that are valuable. Right now, he considers the hype cycle "dramatic."

"I think we'll see a peak of that, of the hype within AI, the valuations, and everyone talking about how it's gonna disrupt every single corner of our economic universe and personal lives," he said.

Related Article : Elon Musk Predicts a Future Where Jobs Are Optional Thanks to AI

The Surge of AI Interest Since ChatGPT

Since the introduction of OpenAI's ChatGPT in November 2022, there has been growing concern among regulators and tech leaders about the potential risks of advanced AI systems.

At the same time, the AI sector has attracted substantial attention from investors, leading to soaring valuations for companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, Cohere, and Mistral. These companies have raised billions from venture capitalists and secured investments from tech giants such as Microsoft and Amazon.

High-Profile Endorsements and Comparisons to the Tech Bubble

Prominent figures in the industry have shown strong support for AI and its growing popularity.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, for instance, has emphasized that AI is more than just a trend, asserting that it holds greater significance than large language models like those behind ChatGPT. Dimon even drew parallels between the current AI boom and the tech bubble of the early 2000s.

Mayer's Warning: The AI Hype is Overblown

Despite the optimistic outlook from some quarters, Mayer expressed a more cautious perspective in his conversation with CNBC. He described the current enthusiasm as "vastly overhyped already," pointing to the influx of capital and inflated valuations as areas of concern.

"Too many companies are bringing in too much capital at valuations that are way too astronomical. So there will be a stabilization," Mayer predicted.

He believes that while AI's benefits will become evident across various industries, the current hype is unsustainable.

The Future of AI Valuations

As the AI sector continues to evolve, Mayer anticipates a period of adjustment where the true value of AI innovations will be recognized. This stabilization phase will likely temper the current feverish investment climate, leading to more realistic valuations.

While the journey of AI is just beginning, understanding the balance between genuine innovation and market hype will be crucial for investors and industry leaders alike.

Kevin Mayer's insights highlight the importance of discerning the actual value of AI amidst the prevailing hype. As AI continues to develop and integrate into various sectors, a more measured approach to investment and valuation will be essential for sustainable growth.

Elsewhere, Baidu CEO Robin Li says that the smarter version of AI that can surpass human intelligence is expected to come 10 years from now. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk contradicts this statement by saying that this kind of AI will be available by 2026.
Colombia declared the sunken Spanish battleship San Jose a protected archeological location on Wednesday, preserving its $17 billion worth of emeralds, gold, and silver.

In 2015, Colombians discovered the 60-gun galleon San Jose, which sank on Baru Island, Cartagena, during the Spanish Succession War. Colombia's cultural ministry declared the classification to safeguard heritage and encourage research, conservation, and appraisal, as reported by the New York Post.

Culture Minister Juan David Correa stressed that the Columbian government does not consider the shipwreck as a treasure. "We do not treat it as such," he said.

Nations Fight for the 'Holy Grail' of Shipwrecks

Colombia, Spain, Bolivia's indigenous population Qhara Quara, and Sea Search Armada have all disputed the "holy grail" shipwreck. In the 1980s, Sea Search Armada claimed to have located the ship and sued the Colombian government for a portion of the wealth in the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

The Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH) is utilizing non-intrusive remote sensors to image the ship. This mission may lead to more San Jose archeological expeditions.

At a press event, Correa emphasized that the sinking of the San Jose could lead to "understanding history and culture" which prompted the government's "unprecedented" move.

The Colombian government revealed in December efforts to recover treasures from the 1708 San Jose galleon disaster, estimated to be worth billions, per CBS News. The 315-year-old wreck has sparked debate due to its archeological and commercial value.

Correa noted then that the time that preliminary wreck artifact retrieval would begin in April or May, depending on Caribbean water conditions. Correa stressed that this is a scientific mission.

Correa said a naval ship would inspect wreck debris using robotic or underwater devices. Based on the results, we may arrange a second attempt.

Read Also : US Coast Guard Approves First Hydrogen-Fueled Ferry in the Country to Enter Commercial Service

UN Warns Over Commercialization Efforts

The UN cultural body, UNESCO, warned Colombia that commercializing the wreck would cause "irretrievable loss of significant heritage."

Colombia has not ratified the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which would enforce international norms and obligate it to notify UNESCO of any wreck intentions.

The Colombian government, a US salvage consortium, Spain, and Bolivia's indigenous Qhara Qhara people are rowing for the 1708 British Navy-sunk San Jose galleon.

Before 1981, when the U.S. salvage group Glocca Morra claimed to have discovered the "holy grail" of shipwrecks due to its valuable cargo, it had vanished from history. The Colombian government claims it discovered the galleon in 2015 with divers at an unknown location.

Glocca Morra wants $10 billion from Colombia for wreck coordinates. London is hearing the company's arbitration challenge for half the riches.

On June 8, 1708, during the War of the Spanish Succession, a British fleet sank the Spanish crown's San Jose galleon off Cartagena. The ship sank after an hour-long combat when its powder magazine exploded. Only 11 of the 600 sailors escaped, according to The Independent.
In recent years, the functionalities and capabilities of the best Galaxy Watches and Apple Watches have become strikingly similar. However, there has always been a clear distinction in their designs, rooted in different geometric shapes. This distinct design language has ensured that no one mistakes a Samsung timepiece for an Apple Watch.

But now, Samsung is poised to shake things up with a bizarre design for its upcoming Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra, bringing it closer to the Apple Watch aesthetic while maintaining its unique identity.

A Fusion of Circle and Square For Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra

The Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra will break away from the traditional Galaxy Watch design, as stated by trusted sources Steve Hemmerstoffer, also known as @OnLeaks and Smartprix.

Squarish or rounded, seems they were not able to decide and the result is



Well, see by yourself with todays very first look at the #Samsung #GalaxyWatch7Ultra through stunning 5K renders!



On behalf of @Smartprix  https://t.co/SPHPEW9TCd pic.twitter.com/Lo8aMDQV7R  Steve H.McFly (@OnLeaks) May 24, 2024

The leak suggests that the new model will merge the classic round screen of its predecessors with a fresh square-shaped frame, reminiscent of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. This unconventional blend of shapes, depicted in leaked renders, presents a unique look that stands out in the crowded smartwatch market.

Potential Concerns: Thickness and Practicality

One of the more concerning aspects of the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra is its reported thickness of 16.4mm. This is a significant increase from the 10.9mm and 10.5mm profiles of the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic and Watch 5 Pro, respectively.

If Samsung doesn't utilize this extra bulk effectively, potential buyers might be deterred by the size and weight, opting for slimmer alternatives instead.

Despite these concerns, the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra is expected to retain some beloved features, including the 1.5-inch display size and the rotating bezel functionality seen in the Watch 6 Classic. This is reassuring for users who feared the new model might forgo these popular features.

What Other Features Will Be Added to Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra

As reported by Phone Arena, the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra will also introduce a third physical button, positioned between the two existing buttons on the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. This new middle button is anticipated to replicate and possibly enhance the "Action" capabilities of the Apple Watch Ultra.

The health sensors on the back of the watch have been rearranged, which could impact their functionality, accuracy, and reliability. While no major improvements in health monitoring are confirmed, there is speculation that the Galaxy Watch 7 series might include blood sugar level tracking, alongside existing features like temperature, blood oxygen, blood pressure, fall detection, and ECG monitoring.

Additionally, the watch band appears to be redesigned to integrate more seamlessly with the body of the Watch 7 Ultra. However, details about the materials used for the watch case-whether titanium, stainless steel or another premium material-remain unclear.

There's also uncertainty about whether Samsung will market the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra as a rugged alternative to the Apple Watch Ultra line, although it does feature larger speaker grills than its predecessor.

The Impact of Design Changes

While every small change is welcome, especially considering the already well-reviewed and popular Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, it remains to be seen if these revisions will compensate for what many Samsung fans might view as an uninspired design. The unique combination of round and square elements, increased thickness, and new functionalities could either set a new trend or alienate long-time users.

To wrap it up, there's nothing wrong with the leaked fused circle-square design for the upcoming Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra, but Samsung needs to consider what its impact will be on both new and old users.

Regardless, the South Korean tech giant aims to create a distinctive timepiece that will be one of the most unique smartwatches in the market. Whether this new approach will be embraced by consumers will depend on how well these changes translate into improved user experience and functionality.
Bratislava, May 24 (TASR) - Since last week's assassination attempt on Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD), the National Crime Agency (NAKA) has registered 153 instances of information or motions related to approval of the attempt or hate speech, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice-SD) announced at a news conference held jointly with Police Corps president Lubomir Solak on Friday.



The police have already identified the authors of posts in 55 cases and are dealing with them. "It's a diverse range of people in terms of gender, level of education or jobs," stated Solak. He mentioned the case of a 40-year-old women from Nitra who has been charged and is now being prosecuted at large, a man from Dunajska Streda (Trnava region), whose house was searched and has had a motion to prosecute him in custody filed against him, and a university student from Bratislava. They are all being prosecuted for comments on social networks expressing approval of the crime. They could be sentenced to one year in prison.



The minister reiterated zero tolerance for threats, approval of crime and other expressions of hate. "We continue to carefully examine suspect posts that have been reported to us or that we've uncovered due to enhanced police deployment," he said.



In addition to hate speech related to the attack on the premier, the police are also investigating threats to President Zuzana Caputova and Progressive Slovakia leader Michal Simecka.



Sutaj Estok announced that the team investigating the attack on the premier has been expanded to include two more experts. He added that the investigation is continuing and all alternatives are being examined.
Massive landslide hits Papua New Guinea, many feared dead



Port Moresby, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



A massive landslide struck Papua New Guinea's highlands Friday, local officials and aid groups said, with many feared dead.

The disaster hit in Kaokalam village, in Papua New Guinea's remote Enga province at around 3:00 am local time.

Provincial governor Peter Ipatas told AFP that a big landslide had caused "loss of life and property".

Images from the scene showed a vast bite of rock and soil cleaved off from a densely vegetated hill.

A long and wide scar of car-size boulders, felled trees and dirt stretched down toward the valley floor.

The remains of many corrugated tin shelters could be seen at the foot of a large landslide.

Dozens of local men and women scrambled over the piles of rock and soil, digging, crying out, listening for survivors or standing scanning the scene in disbelief.

Some became instant rescuers, donning wellington boots, strapping on head torches, picking up machetes and long-handled axes to help clear the rubble.

As they moved around, children carried on their mother's backs could be heard crying.

"The landslide hit around three last night and it looks like more than 100 houses got buried. It is not yet known how many people were in those houses," Vincent Pyati, president of the local Community Development Association, told AFP.

"The number of victims is unknown."

Aid agencies including the Papua New Guinea Red Cross and CARE said they had received confirmation of the landslide, but were working to find out more.

Sitting just south of the equator, the area gets frequent heavy rains.

This year has seen intense rainfall and flooding.

In March, at least 23 people were killed by a landslide in a nearby province.

The Australian government said it was "making enquiries with local authorities to determine whether any Australian have been affected."

"The Australian Government offers its sympathies to those affected by landslides in Papua New Guinea."
Agreement reached at UN on biopiracy treaty



Geneva, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



More than 190 nations agreed Friday on a new treaty to combat so-called biopiracy and regulate patents stemming from genetic resources such as medicinal plants, particularly ones whose uses owe a debt to traditional knowledge.

After lengthy negotiations, delegates approved to cheers and applause the "first WIPO Treaty to address the interface between intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional knowledge", the UN's World Intellectual Property Organization said in a statement.

The talks had been clouded by uncertainty, with one sticking point being sanctions for offenders, which pits developing countries against developed ones broadly speaking.

Genetic resources are increasingly used by companies in everything from cosmetics to seeds, medicines, biotechnology and food supplements.

They have enabled considerable progress in health, climate and food security, according to the United Nations.

After more than 20 years of discussions on the subject, WIPO's more than 190 member states began negotiating on May 13 at the UN innovation and patenting agency's Geneva headquarters on finalising a treaty.

"It's a realistic text. It's a balanced text," a Western negotiator told AFP before the final agreement was reached.

The treaty text says patent applicants will be required to disclose where the genetic resources used in an invention came from, and the indigenous people who provided the associated traditional knowledge.

The goal is to combat biopiracy by ensuring that an invention is genuinely new, and that the countries and local communities concerned agree with the use of their genetic resources, such as plant species cultivated over time, and the traditional knowledge surrounding them.



- Red lines -



While natural genetic resources -- such as those found in medicinal plants, agricultural crops and animal breeds -- cannot be directly protected as intellectual property, inventions developed using them can be patented.

As it is currently not mandatory to publish the origin of innovations, many developing countries are concerned that patents are being granted that circumvent the rights of indigenous people.

Antony Scott Taubman set up WIPO's traditional knowledge division in 2001 but no longer works with the agency.

"I wouldn't go so far as to say it's revolutionary," he said of the treaty.

"Conceptually what we're looking at here is a recognition that when I apply for a patent, it's not purely a technical step... it recognises that I have liabilities," he told AFP.

Brazilian ambassador Guilherme de Aguiar Patriota, who has chaired the talks, hailed the new treaty early Friday as a "very carefully balanced outcome" of the talks.

"It constitutes the best possible compromise and a carefully calibrated solution, which seeks to bridge and to balance a variety of interests, some very passionately held and assiduously expressed and defended over the course of decades."



- Impact on innovation -



Sanctions had been the main stumbling block.

Some developing countries wanted a patent to be easily revoked if the holder has not provided the required information on knowledge and resources.

However, wealthy countries took a dim view of this option, fearing that heavy sanctions will only serve to hamper innovation.

"The difficulty is trying to promote a form of convergence between those who already have significant legislation and those who do not," the Western negotiator said of the sanctions.

More than 30 countries already have disclosure requirements in their national laws.

Most of these are emerging and developing economies, including China, Brazil, India and South Africa, but others are European states, such as France, Germany and Switzerland.

However, the procedures vary and are not always mandatory.

In the end, the treaty text says countries "shall provide an opportunity to rectify a failure to disclose the information required... before implementing sanctions".

However, that opportunity does not need to be extended in "cases where there has been fraudulent conduct or intent as prescribed by national law".

Developing countries have long been calling for greater transparency on the origin of genetic resources.

It took years of negotiations to reduce 5,000 pages of documentation on the subject down to the agreement.
Massive landslide hits Papua New Guinea, many feared dead



Port Moresby, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



A massive landslide struck remote villages in Papua New Guinea's highlands Friday, with many homes buried and scores of residents feared dead.

The disaster hit an isolated part of Enga province at around 3:00 am local time, according to government officials, when many villagers were at home asleep.

Provincial governor Peter Ipatas told AFP that "there has been a big landslide causing loss of life and property".

He later said "six villages" had been affected and described it as an "unprecedented natural disaster".

Three bodies have so far been recovered, but there are fears that hundreds more may be entombed. The true toll may take days or weeks to become clear.

Steven Kandai, a community leader at the scene, told AFP that many residents had no time to flee.

"All of a sudden there was a big landslip. The mountain just collapsed all of a sudden while people were still sleeping," he said, adding their homes were "completely buried".

Others "heard a huge sound from rocks falling down and then escaped. But some went to escape, on their way they were killed by falling trees, rolling rocks", he said.

Images showed a scene of total devastation, with a vast bite of earth cleaved from densely vegetated Mount Mungalo.

The landslide left a vast brown scar of car-size boulders, felled trees and dirt that stretched down toward the valley floor.

The twisted remains of corrugated tin shelters and an overturned minibus could be seen at the foot of rubble.

Dozens of local men and women scrambled over the piles of rock and soil, digging, crying out, listening for survivors or scanning the scene in disbelief.

Some became instant rescuers, donning wellington boots, strapping on head torches, picking up machetes and long-handled axes to help clear the rubble.

Children could be heard crying as their mothers clambered over the rocks in search of loved ones.

- Unknown toll -

Near dusk on Friday, rescuers were using a mechanical digger and hand tools to try to unearth any survivors.

A rapid response team of medics, military, police, engineers and UN agency personnel has been dispatched to the area.

Hospitals, health workers, relief agencies and government personnel across the region have been placed on an "active state of alertness".

Prime Minister James Marape said the team would be there to help with "relief work, (the) recovery of bodies, and reconstruction of infrastructure."

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives" he said.

Vincent Pyati, president of the local Community Development Association, told AFP the "landslide hit around three last night and it looks like more than 100 houses got buried."

"It is not yet known how many people were in those houses. The number of victims is unknown."

Nickson Pakea, president of the nearby Porgera Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said there are fears that up to 300 people may have been there at the time, a number that could not be confirmed.

Aid agencies including the Papua New Guinea Red Cross and CARE said they were on standby and working to find out more.

Red Cross PNG interim secretary general Janet Philemon told AFP the landslide location was remote and that it could take up to two days for emergency services or aid to reach the area.

The nearest highway, which runs to the gold mining town of Porgera, was blocked, complicating relief efforts.

Papua New Guinea's National Disaster Management Office did not immediately give a toll.

The Red Cross estimates the number of injured or dead could be between 100 and 500. But Philemon said she was "trying to get a clearer picture of what the situation is."

The agency was ready to offer first aid, blankets and non-food items to those affected.

"There is no indication of an earthquake or anything that may have triggered (this event). It is a gold mining area and people may have been gold mining on that mountain," she said.

Otherwise, the landslide may have been caused by heavy rain, Philemon suggested.

Sitting just south of the equator, the area gets frequent heavy rains.

This year has seen intense rainfall and flooding.

Community leader Kandai said villagers had been fearful since a smaller landslide struck the same area earlier this year but "they don't have any place to move to".

In March, at least 23 people were killed by a landslide in a nearby province.

"The loss of life and destruction is devastating," Australian foreign minister Penny Wong said, adding that her government "stands ready to assist in relief and recovery efforts".

burs-arb/tym
Celebrations as new biopiracy treaty agreed at UN



Geneva, May 24 (AFP) May 24, 2024



Representatives of Indigenous peoples celebrated Friday at the United Nations following the agreement of a treaty against the pillaging of their traditional knowledge and genetic resources, like those from medicinal plants.

The new treaty, agreed by more than 190 nations, aims to combat so-called biopiracy by making applicants for patents disclose the origins of such materials used in a new invention.

Genetic resources -- such as those found in medicinal plants, agricultural crops and animal breeds -- are increasingly used by companies in everything from cosmetics to seeds, medicines, biotechnology and food supplements.

The idea is to increase intellectual property transparency on Indigenous people's traditional knowledge about resources, but the treaty does not address potential compensation for those communities.

The treaty is the culmination of more than 20 years of work at the UN's innovation and patenting agency -- the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

"Here we are not simply making history but the foundation for a sustainable future for all," the Indigenous Caucus group said after the deal was struck.

The treaty "finally recognises the crucial role that Indigenous peoples play in protecting these resources, ensuring their survival by transmitting our traditional knowledge from generation to generation.

WIPO said it was the first treaty to address "the interface between intellectual property, genetic resources and traditional knowledge".



- Sanctions debate -



Genetic resources have enabled considerable progress in health, climate and food security, according to the UN.

While natural genetic resources -- such as those found in medicinal plants -- cannot be directly protected as intellectual property, inventions developed using them can be patented.

But many developing countries were concerned that patents were being granted that circumvented the rights of Indigenous peoples.

The treaty text says patent applicants will be required to disclose where the genetic resources used in an invention came from, and the Indigenous people who provided the associated traditional knowledge.

The goal is to combat biopiracy by ensuring that an invention is genuinely new, and that the countries and local communities concerned agree with the use of their genetic resources, such as plant species cultivated over time, and the traditional knowledge surrounding them.

The treaty establishes sanctions, which would be imposed in accordance with the laws of countries that adopt the agreement

Some developing countries wanted to be able to revoke patents easily, while wealthy countries argued that stiff penalties would hamper innovation.

"We commend the outcome achieved, which strikes a fine balance between fostering innovation and enhancing transparency in the patent system," the Netherlands said on behalf of a group of mostly Western countries.

The treaty will enter into force once 15 countries have ratified it.



- 'Balanced outcome' -



Negotiations to finalise the treaty began at WIPO's Geneva headquarters on May 13.

Brazilian ambassador Guilherme de Aguiar Patriota, who has chaired the talks, hailed the new treaty early Friday as a "very carefully balanced outcome".

More than 30 countries already have disclosure requirements in their national laws.

Most of these are emerging and developing economies, including China, Brazil, India and South Africa, but others are European states, such as France, Germany and Switzerland.

However, those procedures vary and are not always mandatory.

The new treaty text says countries "shall provide an opportunity to rectify a failure to disclose the information required... before implementing sanctions".

However, that opportunity does not need to be extended in "cases where there has been fraudulent conduct or intent as prescribed by national law".

The treaty also says no country "shall revoke, invalidate, or render unenforceable" a patent solely because the applicant failed to disclose the necessary information.

Developing countries have long been calling for greater transparency on the origin of genetic resources.
After growing up learning about the Civil Rights Movement and the importance of people being free to advocate for their beliefs, Leslie Mehta says providing legal help to the racist organizers of the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville was one of the hardest things shes done as an attorney.

Mehta, whos now running for Congress in Virginia as a Democrat, was serving as legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia seven years ago when the chapter made a controversial decision to represent rally organizer Jason Kessler in litigation against Charlottesville officials.

The ACLU and Kessler won that lawsuit, which dealt with the specifics of how he and his White supremacist allies would be permitted to protest in a strongly Democratic city vehemently opposed to the racist groups coming to town to rally against efforts to remove a Confederate statue. After clashes between rival groups broke out and police lost control of the situation, a White supremacist demonstrator drove into a crowd of counterprotesters, killing one person and injuring more than 30 others.

In an interview this month, Mehta said she and the ACLU took the case at Kesslers request under the impression it would be a peaceful protest. The group would have acted differently, she said, if a crystal ball had foretold the violence that occurred that day.

But Mehta defended a more old-school approach to free speech thats fallen out of favor with many modern progressives, saying First Amendment principles mean little if they only protect speech thats popular or agreeable to people in power.

Im a Black woman who was raised in the South. I understand the implications of all this, said Mehta, who lives in Chesterfield County and grew up in a small town in North Carolina. And certainly it tests your belief in the principles aligned with the First Amendment when youre representing people whom not only do you disagree with, but you find reprehensible. That is what leaders do. Leaders take on hard cases.

Herb Jones, whos competing with Mehta in a Democratic primary in the 1st Congressional District, sees it differently. Mehtas role in what happened in Charlottesville, he said, would be a fatal wound in a general-election campaign against U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, a Westmoreland Republican. And he said its not something Democratic primary voters should overlook.

To represent Nazis and then think you can represent the values of people in this district, thats a stretch, said Jones, who is also Black.

Jones said his own family knows the effects of racist violence, because his grandfather was lynched in South Carolina by a gang of murderous, low-life thugs just like those in Charlottesville.

This was not a First Amendment case, as some want people to believe, Jones said in email. The Nazis had a permit to protest in an area that was much safer than downtown Charlottesville. This was about safety.

Jones ran against Wittman in 2022 in a Republican-leaning district that runs from the Richmond suburbs to the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula and outskirts of Hampton Roads.

Two years ago, Wittman defeated Jones  a military veteran and business owner who formerly served as the elected treasurer of New Kent County  by roughly 14 percentage points. Wittman would likely still be the favorite no matter which Democrat he faces. But the district could potentially be more competitive for Democrats in a presidential year when former President Donald Trump is trying to return to the White House.

Mehtas campaign portrayed Jones criticisms of her work in the Charlottesville case as deflecting focus away from the goal of beating Wittman.

I hate everything Unite the Right represents, but I believe defending our Constitution is an existential imperative, Mehta said in a written statement responding to Jones. Its sad that Mr. Jones chooses to attack my work defending the Constitution when we have an election denier as a member of congress.

Though Wittman condemned the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol in 2021, he was one of many Republicans who voted against certifying the election results from Pennsylvania. He also signed a legal brief supporting Texas efforts to dispute presidential results from other states.

Like Jan. 6, the Unite the Right rally is one of the most prominent examples in recent American history of violence erupting at a far-right protest.

As the August 2017 rally approached, Charlottesville officials tried to revoke a permit Kessler had obtained from the city in June to hold the event at the Robert E. Lee statue that once stood in what is now Market Street Park. Local officials attempted to modify the permit less than a week before the rally, resulting in last-minute legal wrangling over where it would be held.

The city said it wanted to move the rally to the bigger but less centrally located McIntire Park due to safety concerns. A federal judge sided with the ACLU and Kessler, ruling the city hadnt presented enough concrete evidence of safety threats to justify revoking a permit the city had already granted.

The wisdom of the citys attempt to change the rally location was a point of contention in a post-event review commissioned by city officials. A report prepared for the city by former federal prosecutor Tim Heaphy found that Charlottesvilles police chief at the time raised concerns that trying to move the rally would complicate matters by forcing law enforcement to rework public safety plans and prepare for the possibility of crowds gathering in two locations instead of one. Some officials also felt there was no guarantee moving the rally would work as intended, since Kessler could sue or refuse to comply with the citys directives about where to go.

Those concerns were raised with the Charlottesville City Council in a closed session, according to Heaphys report. But the council chose to press ahead with the ultimately unsuccessful effort to move the rally.

The post-rally report also indicated some law enforcement officials felt the citys case for moving the rally was weak and wanted the city to lose the lawsuit. The report says a police captain suggested the chief at the time didnt want an affidavit containing information about potential violence to look too good, but the chief denied intentionally leaving intelligence out of the affidavit that was presented to the judge.

Those details werent immediately known in the aftermath of the rally, when former Gov. Terry McAuliffe and others accused the ACLU of contributing to the violence by helping Kessler defeat the plan to move the rally.

At the time, former ACLU of Virginia Executive Director Claire Gastanaga fired back, saying her organization had simply stood up for constitutional principles and the violence was instead a result of poor planning and execution by law enforcement and government officials who were supposed to keep people safe no matter where the rally occurred.

Mehta said the litigation she was involved in was limited to the specifics of the citys attempt to change the permit and shouldnt be construed as an endorsement of Unite the Right or excusing the violence that occurred after the citys lawyers failed to convince the judge there was an imminent safety threat.

If they thought that there were safety issues, that was their responsibility to make that point, Mehta said.

Mehtas work as a civil rights lawyer took a turn after her oldest daughter, Brooke, was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome, a debilitating genetic disorder. Mehta left the ACLU and devoted more of her time to caring for her child and advocating for better research into the disease. Brooke died in 2021 at the age of 5.

Mehta now works as chief of staff and legal counsel to the CEO for the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority, but shes taken a leave of absence from that role to run for office. She said her advocacy work on health care helped her connect with U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger who has supported efforts to get more federal research funding for Rett Syndrome.

Spanberger, an emerging Democratic leader who is currently the only member of her party running for governor in 2025, gave Mehtas campaign a boost last month by endorsing Mehta in the primary against Jones.

Ive known Leslie ever since working together to increase funding to fight rare diseases, Spanberger said in a statement announcing the endorsement. I was inspired by her bravery, as she had just lost her young daughter to a disease. Virginians will be fortunate to have such an engaged representative working to improve their lives  because I know she will bring her tenacity, intelligence, and passion to the U.S. House every day.

Mehta has also been endorsed by numerous members of the Virginia General Assembly, including Sens. Ghazala Hashmi of Chesterfield, Schuyler VanValkenburg of Henrico, Aaron Rouse of Virginia Beach and Mamie Locke of Hampton, who heads the Senate Democratic Caucus.

Jones, who was endorsed by former Gov. Ralph Northam, questioned why prominent Democrats are putting a thumb on the scale in the primary. He said Republican voters in the GOP-friendly district are unlikely to vote for an ACLU lawyer and some Democratic voters would be turned off by her role in the Charlottesville case.

If she wins the primary, she is going to get clobbered in the general, Jones said.

Mehta said she doesnt see the Unite the Right litigation as a liability for her campaign, because people shes spoken to seem to understand her point of view when she explains what the case was and wasnt about. She also highlighted other civil rights cases the ACLU of Virginia was involved in during her time with the organization, such as transgender student Gavin Grimms battle against his local school board over bathroom policies and efforts to fight the Trump administrations moves to ban travelers from predominantly Muslim countries.

Regardless of whether she or the ACLU approve or disapprove of a group seeking legal help, Mehta said, laws have to be applied equally.

I believe in the First Amendment, Mehta said. But I also believe that it must be peaceful. And if its not peaceful, folks who are violent need to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
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 On a sweltering February morning, staff at electricity supplier AGL were preparing for a potentially catastrophic day on the grid. There was good reason to worry: home air-conditioners were driving enormous demand for power, just as storms, bushfires and lightning were about to bring the system to its knees. At 1pm, high-voltage transmission towers of galvanised steel were crumpled in wild winds near Geelong, while smaller poles came crashing down across the network. Two wind farms suddenly tripped offline, and so did all four units at AGLs giant Loy Yang A coal-fired power station. Before long, the power had gone out at more than half a million Victorian homes. In times like these, when the power grid needs an urgent boost, a signal arrives at Tony Debonos house within a tenth of a second and activates a box on the wall next to his electricity meter. His property in Cobains, a dairy farming town east of Melbourne, forms part of one of Australias newest power plants, which isnt really a power plant at all  at least, not how we traditionally think of them. Instead, its a virtual power plant: a far-flung network of privately owned rooftop solar panels and batteries dispersed across thousands of houses on the eastern seaboard. In return for a credit on their bills, Debono and other customers like him have agreed to allow their power providers to take control of their devices at certain times and utilise the combined force of their stored solar energy. Power lines came down in the You Yangs following windy and stormy weather in Melbourne in February. Credit: Jason South When theres a critical need, they can draw some power off my system onto the grid, says Debono. And Ive got no problem with that.

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As utilities such as AGL, Origin Energy and EnergyAustralia prepare to close down their last remaining coal-fired power stations in the coming years, the industry is shifting much of its focus to an important question: how do you balance an energy system in a world of cleaner but less-consistent renewable energy? The ability to aggregate large numbers of customers solar panels and batteries to treat them like a single virtual power plant may hold part of the solution. When its not sunny or breezy, and not enough power is available in the grid, utilities can tap these virtual power sources to dispatch bursts of solar energy held in customers batteries to address imbalances and keep the network stable. If participating homes are fitted with intelligent appliances as well, such as electric hot water systems, these can also play a role by powering down to minimise demand. So too can large businesses, such as factories, who have agreed to free up the grid when conditions are tight. Loading Obviously, a single rooftop solar system and a home battery cant do the job of a power station, says the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), which has funded many of the countrys early virtual power plant trials, but what about 1000 home batteries, or 10,000, or a million? The energy market operator predicts the capacity of virtual power plants is set to surge, especially as all-electric homes with batteries, rechargeable electric vehicles, solar, and energy-management solutions keep growing in popularity. By 2050, it says, co-ordinated consumer energy resources could account for 65 per cent of the entire storage capacity on the east-coast grid. Origin Energy, which runs Australias biggest virtual power plant, called Loop, thinks the technologys scale and potential have been completely underestimated. When we announced wed have a two-gigawatt virtual power plant by 2026, most people asked us what it was, Origin chief executive Frank Calabria says. With Loops capacity sitting above 1.2 gigawatts today  even before widespread adoption of home batteries and electric vehicles  its becoming very real very quickly, he says.

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To some in the energy industry, the response to Victorias extreme weather and blackouts on February 13 gave the clearest demonstration yet of virtual power plants emerging value. As staff on the AGL trading floor swung into action that day, scanning giant monitors and dispatching signals to crank up their available gas, hydro, wind and solar units, AGLs head of virtual power plant operations, Caitlin Trethewy, and her team were able to activate their assets in much the same way. Between 2pm and 8pm, more than 20,000 residential customers were involved in helping stabilise the grid and powering about 500 Victorian homes, according to Trethewy. More customers like Tony Debono have signed up to be fitted with solar panels and storage batteries, which enables utilities to aggregate stored solar energy and use it to stabilise the power grid when needed. Credit: Paul Jeffers Some of those were customers with home batteries that were able to respond within 100 milliseconds to frequency imbalance in the grid and offer power, she says. We also had customers on our peak energy rewards product, where AGL sends customers a text message asking them to reduce energy consumption within a specific window of time. AGLs virtual power plant, which began as a trial in South Australia with ARENA funding to install 1000 behind-the-meter batteries and experiment with software to orchestrate them, has been scaled up significantly. Today, it spans every state in which AGL retails, and includes a range of assets across residential and business premises. At the last count, AGL now has 1.1 gigawatts of decentralised assets connected via a cloud-based platform, and is on track to hit 1.8 gigawatts by 2027. For the power grids of the future, which will require more flexibility to balance supply and demand, virtual power plants could be game-changing, says Trethewy.

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For customers who have invested in home energy assets, they can also be rewarding. We, on the customers behalf, aggregate their assets, participate in wholesale energy markets to generate more value, she says. Then were able to share that value back with the customer. Loading As Debono started approaching retirement, he had one main priority: I wanted to make my bills cheaper, he says. So I invested in a solar system. First, he went for a 4.5-kilowatt system, which reduced his bills by about half. Now hes increased it to 10 kilowatts. On his gable roof, most of his solar panels are facing north, where they can produce the most electricity, and others are facing west for when the sun is setting. Hes also installed a home battery (a Tesla Powerwall 2), a pair of five-kilowatt inverters and a back-up generator. All up, it has cost him about $35,000. People asked, Whats the payback time on that? but I wasnt worried about the payback time, I was more worried about having cheaper bills, Debono says. Average electricity prices have been sharply rising across Australia, driven by ageing coal-fired power station breakdowns and higher fossil fuel prices following Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022. But by feeding his excess rooftop solar into the grid, and participating in AGLs virtual power plant, Debono earns enough bill credits that he makes money each month. For the past year, I havent paid a power bill at all, he says. Virtual power plant programs, and the growing number of retail offers being built around them, are coming at a critical moment in the energy transition.

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Australia has emerged a world-leader in rooftop solar uptake on a per-capita basis, with more than one-third of homes now fitted with solar panels. Home batteries are also quickly rising in popularity, and the uptake of electric vehicles whose batteries could also be used to supply the grid, is expected to unlock even greater capacity. Its a massive growth story, says Leon Chanter, ARENAs associate director of business development. And the projections for distribution-level consumer energy resources  expect it to continue to grow. I wanted to make my bills cheaper ... So I invested in a solar system. Tony Debono Whats important now, he says, is developing the systems and regulatory frameworks to maximise all of this distributed energy potential by orchestrating household assets, encouraging greater consumer participation and avoiding having to curtail output when there is an oversupply of solar. Loading Having virtual power plants and orchestrated distributed energy resource solutions in place allows a household to maximise the value of its energy, and that means a lower-cost future, he says. A consumer energy resources road map, aiming to establish nationally consistent rules to boost consumers ability to export solar and enable vehicle-to-grid technologies, will be reviewed by state and federal energy ministers in July.

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After a week of self-centred behaviour in state parliament and council chambers, it is a wonder any young person wants to enter politics to make changes.

Brisbanes Jessica Stone, 18, is one of the few.

Youth MP for Nudgee Jessica Stone wants Indigenous elders to decide whether their ancestors remains should be returned to communities. Credit: Tony Moore

Last year, Stone completed year 12 at the Queensland Academies Creative Industries (QACI), and next year she will study law and humanities at the University of Queensland.

This year, Stone is one of Queenslands 93 Youth MPs, and she has a clear goal for 2024.
On Tuesday, the perpetrator of a serious crime faced the Childrens Court. Guilt was not the issue; the teenager was sentenced two years ago. The hearing was about whether the Herald would be allowed to write about it.

Your right to know. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

We were not asking to name the teenager. Thats prohibited by law  a juvenile has a legal right to have their identity kept secret and their record wiped clean as they move into adulthood  and we take our obligations seriously.

We just wanted to tell our readers what happened; what they did, the impact on those they hurt, and how they were punished. We know; we think its in the public interest for you to know, too.

Journalists spend much of their time fighting for information and navigating legal hurdles to publish it. Its a frustrating part of the job that readers dont see, particularly when we have to fight for information to which we should rightfully be allowed access.
A coroner investigating the overdose death of a 16-year-old boy who was doctor shopping has denounced clinicians who are failing to check a prescription-monitoring system designed to prevent drug seeking.

The boy, known as LI, got 64 prescriptions from 31 doctors in a year, including three scripts for opioids and benzodiazepines from three different doctors, which he filled at three different pharmacies, by feigning illness in the days before his death.

The coroner has found 30 per cent of clinicians are failing to check a prescription-monitoring system. Credit: Louie Douvis

He died during the night of January 28, 2019. His grandmother found his body slumped on his bed the next morning.

Coroner Ingrid Giles on Friday found LI was born with complex drug addiction and battled borderline personality disorder, polysubstance abuse and had engaged in a number of self-harm and suicide attempts.
Padstow Distilling re-releases its Cornish vodka

Padstow Distilling, the Cornish spirits brand known for its small-batch approach and foraged and farmed ingredients, has re-released its vodka.

The redesigned Padstow Vodka Gun Point is presented in a bottle highlighting the local grain used in its production, and the coastline nearby to which it is made.

The distillery creates its own base spirit using Cornish barley grown locally at Tregirls Farm. The vodka is made with natural water from the source also found at the farm.

David McWilliam, founder and head distiller of Padstow Distilling, said: Our commitment to crafting our base spirit might be a labour of love, but its what sets us apart. Theres no shortcut to perfection, and were proud to let our spirits speak for themselves.

Padstow Distilling recently expanded its premises to increase its capacity. Earlier this year, the distillery appointed Thorman Hunt as its UK distributor , in a move to expand the brands presence in the on-trade.

Padstow Vodka Gun Point (40% ABV) is available via padstowdistilling.co.uk at an RRP of 44.

24 May 2024 - Lucy Schofield

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9 killed, 63 injured as strong winds topple stage at campaign rally in northern Mexico





SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCIA,

A STRONG gust of wind toppled the stage at a campaign rally on Wednesday evening in the northern Mexican State of Nuevo Leon, killing at least nine people - including a child - and injuring 63. The collapse occurred during an event attended by presidential long-shot candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez, who ran to escape. Videos of the collapse on social media showed people screaming, running away and climbing out from under metal polls. The victims will not be alone in this tragedy, Maynez told reporters on Wednesday night, adding that he had suspended upcoming campaign events. Afterward, soldiers, police and other officials roamed the grounds of the park where the event took place while many nearby sat stunned and haunted by the tragedy.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said he sends a hug to family members, friends of the victims and political supporters. Condolences poured in from across Mexico, including by other presidential candidates. In a video message, Nuevo Leon Gov Samuel Garcia, a leading member of Maynezs Citizens Movement party, asked residents to shelter in their houses for the next two hours. He provided the death toll of at least five and dozens injured. Maynez wrote in his social media accounts that he went to a hospital after the accident in the wealthy suburb of San Pedro Garza Garcia, near the city of Monterrey.

He said he was in good condition. The only important thing at this point is to care for the victims of the accident, he wrote. Miguel Trevino, the Mayor of San Pedro Garza Garcia, wrote in his social media accounts, My prayers are with the victims. Campaign events are being held this week and next in anticipation of the June 2 presidential, State and municipal elections. Videos of the accident showed Maynez waving his arm as the crowd chanted his name. But then he looked up to see a giant screen and metal structure toppling toward him.
Bangladesh MP murder case: His US friend paid Rs 5 crto murder him: WB CID





KOLKATA,

THE initial probe into the murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar revealed that one of his close friends, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to kill him, a senior police officer claimed here on Thursday. The Awami League MPs friend owns a flat in Kolkata, and is probably in the US at present, he said. Police also said that the flat in Kolkatas New Town area, where the Bangladesh MP was last seen entering, was rented out to his friend by its owner, an Excise Department employee. It was a well-planned murder. A huge amount of money, around Rs 5 crore was paid by an old friend of the MP to kill him. Further investigation is underway, the officer told PTI.

Anar, who went missing in Kolkata on May 13, was found murdered and three people have been arrested, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan had said on Wednesday. The West Bengal Police had said investigation of the case has been taken up by the State CID. Akhilesh Chaturvedi, IG, CID, had on Wednesday said, police had reliable inputs that Anar may have been murdered, but his body was yet to be recovered. Asked whether the police found blood stains in the apartment of a luxury condominium in New Town in Kolkatas outskirts, where the MPs whereabouts were last traced on May 13, Chaturvedi said, Our forensic team is examining the suspected crime scene. Its too early to speak about that.

The State CID has found blood stains inside the New Town flat and also recovered several plastic bags, which they believe were used to dump the body parts. Circumstantial evidence indicates that the MP was first strangulated and then his dead body was mutilated in several parts, police claimed. The body parts were probably put inside plastic bags and scattered at different locations. We also suspect that some parts were kept in a refrigerator and we have collected samples, the officer said.
BJP responsible for unemployment, graftin Haryana: Priyanka





SIRSA (Haryana),

CONGRESS leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday slammed the BJP Government for unemployment, corruption and inflation in the Haryana. There is a huge wave of Congress in Haryana. Haryana has the highest unemployment in the entire country, the price of which is being paid by the youth here. The public is fed up with the rampant inflation, corruption and instability of the BJP and is going to bring about a big change), she said in a post in Hindi on X. The Congress will win all seats in the state with a huge margin, she said.

Earlier, she led a roadshow to garner support for party nominee Kumari Selja for the May 25 Lok Sabha poll in Haryana. Standing in an open vehicle along with Selja and former Haryana Minister Kiran Choudhary, Priyanka waved towards people during her roadshow, which lasted for about an hour. It was her first such election outing in Haryana. Holding party flags, Congress workers raised slogans Congress party Zindabad and showered flower petals on her. The roadshow came hours before the campaigning for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha polls comes to an end. Selja, a prominent Dalit face of the Congress in Haryana, is pitted against BJPs Ashok Tanwar. Like Selja, Tanwar has also been the president of the Haryana Congress when he was in the party.
Congress Nayak targets State Government on nursing scandal





Staff Reporter

Taking the Government at cross hairs over the nursing scandal, the media unit incharge of the Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) slammed the State Government addressing a press conference at party headquarters on Thursday. While addressing, he alleged, The way in which the State has sidelined the directions of the Nursing Council of India is not seen anywhere in the country. The colleges are running without any building. There are no laboratories, library and hospitals but still the colleges are running. In reality, there are just running on paper and are only visible to those who created their inspection reports. Nayak said that on the orders of the High Court, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was given the charge of probing into the matter, but the CBI officials are also being caught taking bribe of Rs 10 lakh. With this, the State has become the first state in the country where those who were bestowed the responsibility of investigating into the matter have been arrested even before the arrest of the mastermind of the scandal. He also demanded for an independent investigation into the matter under the sitting judge of the high court.

Nayak said that never in the history this has been heard that a single professor or assistant professor is teaching at eight different locations. Not just limited to that these professor are even registered in other parts of the state too and his/her name can be also found on the portal of the government. This means that the government admits that a single individual can teach at eight different locations at the same time. Even the high court was surprised that those who are even unaware of the building blocks of nursing are being permitted to sit in exams. Calling it unfortunate, he said that there are several colleges which are under the patronage of political leaders and are degrading the future of the country. Leader of Opposition in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Hemant Katare said that at a time when the state has not even come out of the Vyapam scam, another scam has emerged in the state. The leaders of our party were sent to jail over fighting for justice for the needy, false cases were registered against them. But on the other hand, the CBI officers were found talking over call to someone while in the custody.

The government should explain its intention about giving protection to the accused. After the arrest of the CBI officials and directors of the nursing colleges, Madhya Pradesh Nursing Registration Council issued a list for the nomination of the students from 132 nursing colleges, but it also includes those colleges also, whose directors have been arrested. Due to the ill intentions of those involved in the scam, the future of lakhs of nursing students of the state has gone into dark and the government is still providing political backing to the accused even after such serious comments by the high court. Ravi Parmar, Coordinator, medical wing of National Students Union of India (NSUI) said while addressing. Spokesperson of the party including Ravi Saxena, Vivek Tripathi and Aparajita Pandey were also present during the press conference.
Filthy! Food unfit for consumption found in raids on base kitchens





Staff Reporter

Receiving the complaint related to selling of sub-standard and adultrated food products at Railway Station, the joint team of Food Safety Administration, Food Department and Jabalpur Municipal Corporation along with Railway Protection Force conducted a raid at Anna Basti, Nehru Nagar, close to 2nd bridge, Jabalpur on Thursday. The Food Safety Officers collected samples of edible oil and Samosa from base kitchen of Ibrahim and Company and rice and fruit drinks from the base kitchen of Meghna Rajendra Kumar Mangla.

Food Safety Officer, Pankaj Shrivastava stated that, after the raid, we have sealed the base kitchen of Ibrahim and Company and another unauthorised firm operated by Amit Negi alias Gujji for not having FSSAI License. The team also seized domestic gas cylinders being used at all the three firms. Shrivastava further informed that the food items were prepared in an unhygienic and unhealthy environment. Following which the JMC team not only seized these food items but also decomposed it. Samples of food products kept in deep freezer by Amit Negi, were also collected. As Amit Negi was not present at the time of raid, hence another house was also sealed. All the samples collected during the raid, will be sent to Bhopal-based State Food Testing Lab.
Mamata Banerjee engaged politics of Muslim appeasement: Minister Gaur





Staff Reporter

State Minister Krishna Gaur addressed a press conference on Thursday. She slammed the Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee and accused her of indulging in corrupt practices while discharging her duties as the Chief Minister. She said, the Calcutta High Court gave a landmark decision on Wednesday where the court has cancelled all the other backward classes (OBCs) certificate created after 2010. Welcoming the decision, she asked the Government of West Bengal to implement the order with immediate effect and said that the order has bring a new ray of hope in the lives of the people of the state coming from OBC category. She further said that the backward class unit of the party has also burnt the effigy of Mamata Banerjee. Hitting out at Mamata Banerjee, she said that the National Backward Classes Commission has made arrangements for giving reservations to 480 backward classes in the country. But in 2012, the Mamata Banerjee led government passes a new law and included 48 castes of Muslims in the same snatching the rights of the OBCs.

As time passed, the state witnessed the appointments of Muslims on various posts and the needy were left isolated. She also accused Banerjee of doing the politics of Muslim appeasement and vote bank. She said, Due to these practices, the people of the country have understood that the leaders of the INDI alliance want to snatch the rights of the downtrodden of the country. They want to give reservations to the Muslims. She (Banerjee) came with the slogan of Ma, Maati and Manush (mother, soil and human) but now it has been changed into Musalman, Madrasa and Mafia (Muslims, Madrasa and Mafia). She alleged. Gaur emphasised that Prime Minister Modi is constantly warning the people of the country that forces intend to snatch reservation from the dalits and tribals and want to give it to the Muslims. The country has seen that the Congress has always provided reservation and other benefits to the Muslims from the back door. This has been seen in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.
Massive Bombing In Rafah





By Krishna Jha

AMIDST massive bombing of Rafah, its major part is in ruins now. There is also sealing of entry and exit for life-saving aid. Brutality is in its full bloom. Israel, a built up habitat for those survivors of extremities during holocaust, now has spread out its own genocidal intent it had faced once several decades back. The poisonous flame of hatred has been kept alive by those who believed in clash of civilisations. At the end of the Second World War, to create the state of Israel, there was mass displacement of over 7,50,000 Palestinians. It was on May 15 that the mass displacement started taking place at the peril of huge masses. The date was a reminder of the tragedy that they had to go through and was called by the Palestinians, Nakba, Arabic for catastrophe. On May 15 this year, a100-page report, on Genocide in Gaza: Analysis of International Law and its Application to Israels Military Actions since October 7, 2023, was submitted to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the UN Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide, and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel. The report has been prepared by International legal experts over Israels genocide in Gaza after conducting the most comprehensive legal analysis to date of Israels military operation.

It is clear from its findings that Israel has committed and continues to commit genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Tens and thousands of displaced and also exhausted Palestinians have started their journey to the unknown seeking justice and succour. The report has been submitted at a moment when Israel invades Rafah, last refuge for Gaza, forcing more than a million Palestinians to flee from Israels attacks on the southern city. The report has become a caution and to create awareness among other states that they have an obligation against any kind of injustice, and work together to prevent and punish Israels egregious violations of the prohibition on genocide. They also serve to strengthen the current legal cases against Israel in the International Court of Justice and against the Biden Administration in US federal court. The report finds that Israel has killed at least 34,568 Palestinians, 14,500 of whom are children, and injured 77,765 other Palestinians in Gaza, comprising more than five per cent of Gazas population in total. The operation has destroyed up to 70 percent of homes in Gaza, as well as the majority of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, universities, UN facilities, and cultural and religious heritage sites.

A staggering 1.7 million civiliansover 75 percent of Gazas populationhave been forcibly displaced by Israels military offensive, and civilians in Gaza face catastrophic levels of hunger and deprivation due to Israels restriction on, and failure to ensure adequate access to, basic essentials of life, including food, water, medicine, and fuel. This assault has been one of extremes: the deadliest conflict for journalists and aid workers ever recorded, the worlds fastest starvation rate ever, and more children killed in four months than all conflicts in the past four years combined. Simply put, the devastation in Gaza is unparalleled, said Thomas Becker, Legal and Policy Director of UNHR. These actions have taken place as representatives from all levels of the Israeli Government have openly and repeatedly made statements evincing genocidal intent. What is unique about the situation in Gaza is that Israels rights abuses and its leaderships candid genocidal discourse has been on full display for the world, said Susan Akram, Director of the International Human Rights Clinic at Boston University School of Law.

In the last few days, people on foot and vehicles have crowded the roads of Rafah. The southern city on the borders of Egypt is now in shambles, though formally Israel is yet to unleash the attack. Though a small city, Rafah now houses 1.5 million highly vulnerable Palestinians, majority of them being refugees who had been forced by Israelis to flee from north and central Gaza. The UN humanitarian chief has warned of horrific destruction which would have the apocalyptic consequences since the relief material is stopped by Israeli ruling circles. The military offensive of Israel has included in its offensive the blocking of food itself. Fuel is running out and the rescue material fails to reach those who need them. Famine has covered the entire area. The battles near the Rafah and Kerem Shallom Crossing in south of Gaza is a pointer that the vital passages are properly blocked. It has been clearly an effort to block all land routes too.

By land, to the south and for Rafah, to those who are uprooted from this city, any movement is almost impossible. In fact the Rafah operation has become a great negative fallout. These are the people that have been seeking to gain roots, as they have been chased away from Rafah that has turned into rubbles, and facing homelessness not once or twice but more than five to six times. The closure of the land-crossings for relief material has forced a significantly large number of Gazans on the verge of starvation. Although some relief supplies have been sought to be sent through sea, it cannot replace the land route as it cannot reach with adequate quantity. There are also some agencies trying to send relief like food materials, water and aid into Gaza, and also tents but all these initiatives are crushed by Israeli authorities. On top of all these, there is the continuing bombarding of Rafah over the weekends. (IPA)
Narsinghpur: Ranger, Dy Ranger caught taking Rs 50K bribe





Staff Reporter

A Ranger and Deputy Ranger posted at Forest Range Office Gotegaon, Narsinghpur district, were caught red-handed while receiving bribe of Rs. 50,000 at their office on Thursday. The accused were identified as Dinesh Malviya aged 43, son of Poonam Chand Malviya, posted as Ranger at Forest Range Office, Gotegaon and Kamlesh Kumar Chouhan, son of late Ram Gopal Singh Chouhan, posted Deputy Ranger at Forest Range office, Gotegaon who were caught red-handed while accepting bribe on the complaint of Yogendra Singh Patel aged 43, son of Dabbulal Patel, who was a timber merchant and resident of Gaya Dutt Ward, Station Ganj Narsinghpur.

According to the complainant, he was a timber merchant. After receiving written permission from the Forest Department to chop wood, he went to the field of a farmer at village Sagda, Gotegaon to cut Satkata trees on May 18, 2024 at around 7.00 pm. The woods was being cut and loaded into the truck with the help of a Hydra vehicle. After loading the woods, the TP was to be taken. At the same time, Ranger, Malviya and Deputy Ranger Chouhan came to the spot with their staff and seized the Hydra and truck loaded with woods and took the vehicles to Shyam Nagar Forest Chowki, Gotegaon. When the complainant requested them to release the vehicles and wood, they demanded a bribe of Rs. 50,000 to cover up the case and impose less penalty.

Left with no other option, Patel filed him complaint at Lokayukt office Jabalpur. After verifying the complaint, Lokayukt conducted a raid at Forest Range Office, Gotegaon on Thursday and caught both the Ranger and Deputy Ranger while accepting the bribe of Rs. 50,000. Taking both the accused under their custody, further action was taken against them under Prevention of Corruption Act. The Lokayukt team was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police, Dileep Jharwade, comprised of Inspector, Kamal Singh Uike, Inspector, Naresh Behra, Inspector, Bhupendra Kumar Deewan and 08 other members.
No one can snatch the Quota for Dalits and tribals: Modi





MAHENDRAGARH (Haryana),

PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday claimed that the INDIA bloc is talking about having five PMs over the next five years and said the fight over ghee has broken out in the alliance, even before the cow has given milk. Hours before campaigning for the sixth round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls came to an end, Modi at a rally in Haryanas Mahendragarh asserted that till he is alive, no one can snatch the reservation for Dalits and tribals. In this election, you will not only choose the countrys PM but also decide the countrys future, the Prime Minister told the gathering.

On one hand is your tried and tested sewak Modi. Who is on the other side, one does not know, he said, targeting the I.N.D.I.A. bloc that has as its constituents Opposition parties, including the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Trinamool Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. The I.N.D.I.A. bloc is extremely communal, casteist and nepotist, he said while alleging that when the Congress was in power, it did not allow construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Claiming that the I.N.D.I.A. bloc is talking about having five PMs in five years, Modi said, The cow hasnt given milk but the fight over ghee has started in the alliance.

Voting for the 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana will be held on May 25. Noting that more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted if he had been in power he would have taken Kartapur Sahib from Pakistan before freeing their troops. The partition left Kartar Sahib in Pakistans Punjab, just a few kilometres away from the border with India. For 70 years, we could have a darshan of the Kartarpur Sahib gurudwara only with binoculars, Modi said.
Nursing Scam: Oppn raises issue but becomes silent





By Bhavana Aparajita

Shukla

State has been hitting the headlines for wrong reasons after VYAPAM, now the Nursing Scam as the Opposition Congress party apprehended has grabbed the lime light. Not only the scale of corruption but importantly the involvement also prompted investigators who have turned to scamsters, as four CBI officers, including a Deputy Superintendent-rank officer, have been named in the FIR and three have been arrested in the bribery case, has shocked the people. And now new team constituted by the agency will look in to the matter. On the other side, the future of around 1.5 lakh nursing students in the State hangs in the balance amidst court orders and an ongoing CBI investigation. Although recently, the Madhya Pradesh High Court directed that students of 56 nursing colleges, who have obtained stay on probe from Supreme Court allowed to appear in the exam. But the future of rest of lakhs of students are also at stake.

The Opposition to target the Mohan Yadav-led BJP government. Congress Hemant Katare, Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, has said a Supreme Court-monitored probe was required. We have lost faith in the CBI. The agency is functioning as a tool of the BJP. We will question the Government in the Assembly, but if it does not reply convincingly, we will hit the streets. Government had changed but nothing has been done by our honourable public representatives whether in or outside the Government. The CBI has searched 31 locations across Madhya Pradesh and Jaipur and found over Rs 2.3 crores in cash, 4 gold bars and incriminating documents. Rahul Raj, it is alleged, would co-ordinate with middlemen and share schedule of CBI inspections, fix and collect bribe amounts, and provide suitability report.

On other side, Chief Minister on this issue Mohan Yadav had said the government has to learn from past mistakes and added he had issued several directions to ensure such irregularities do not happen. He had refused to elaborate, saying that the matter is sub-judice. A new team from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is to take over the investigation into nursing colleges scam after members of the agencys earlier team allegedly became a part of it.

The Enforcement Directorate can register a separate case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act against the officers. Also, the colleges tagged suitable earlier could be re-examined.
Protests after BJPwoman worker killed





KOLKATA :

Political unrest returns in WB

BARELY two days ahead of the parliamentary polls, a woman BJP worker was killed in Nandigram in West Bengals Purba Medinipur district, triggering large-scale protests by the BJP activists there on Thursday, police said. The region, which falls under the Tamluk Lok Sabha seat and is considered to be the backyard of Bengals Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, is scheduled to vote on May 25 in the sixth phase of the elections. BJP workers burnt tyres, blocked roads and pulled down shutters of shops in Nandigram, alleging that the TMC-backed criminals were involved in the killing of Rathibala Arhi (38), a BJP worker in Sonachura village.

A large contingent of police and RAF have been deployed in the area to control the rioting mob, police said. No arrests in connection with the alleged murder have taken place yet. The BJP camp called a bandh in Nadigram as part of its protest but withdrew it later, a local BJP leader said. Arhi was killed and several others were injured after unidentified and armed motorcycle-borne assailants attacked them late Wednesday night, a police officer said. Arhi and several other party workers were tasked with the job of guarding a local polling booth last night after poll campaigns in the area ended for the day. TMC-backed criminals attacked them. She was murdered and others were left badly injured, BJPs district general secretary Meghnadh Paul told PTI. Among the seven people reportedly injured, the condition of one was critical and the person was shifted to a hospital in Kolkata, he said.

TMC leader in Nandigram, Swadesh Das, dismissed the allegations, claiming, There were some family disputes and the killing could be the consequence of that. Another senior officer of district police said that an investigation into the killing of the woman is underway Taking to his social media handle X, Adhikari, in an oblique reference to TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjees public speech in the area on Wednesday, alleged, The bloodshed was a direct fallout of Bhaipo (nephew)s provocation in Nandigram yesterday.The barbaric murder was orchestrated by the Trinamool after realising its certain defeat.

The hands of the jihadis do not tremble before hacking a woman to death. The BJP will see this through to its end, exact revenge in a legal manner and respond by democratic means, he added. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya posted on his microblogging site, Such violence is unacceptable in a democracy. Mamata Banerjee must be held accountable for provocative statements and subsequent action by criminal members of her party.We will fight and ensure justice for Rathibala Arhi and all victims. In an apparent dig at the Election Commission, Malviya added, But when will the commission take note of Mamata Banerjees repeated communal and murderous statements? After the election is over? TMC leader Santanu Sen, however, called the incident a reflection of BJPs internal feud between the partys oldtimers and its new recruits in Nandigram. The BJP realises that come Saturday it will fare badly from the region. In its desperation, the BJP is trying to pin the reflections of its factional fights on the Trinamool, Sen counteralleged.
Pune car crash: Police grill grandfather of minor accused





PUNE,

Pune Police on Thursday questioned the grandfather of a 17-year-old boy who allegedly crashed his high-end car into a motorbike killing two persons earlier this week. The accused teenagers friend and a driver who were accompanying him in the car during Sundays fatal accident in Kalyani Nagar area here were also questioned by the police. The teenager was remanded to the observation home by the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) on Wednesday. His grandfather was summoned by the police on Thursday in connection with an offence registered against the juveniles father and staff members and the owner of two liquor-serving establishments in Mundhwa area, a crime branch official said. The senior citizen was confronted with his son, real estate developer Vishal Agarwal who has already been arrested, for the corroboration of certain facts, the official said. While the minors grandfather was being taken to face his son at the Police Commissioners office, some reporters tried to ask him questions, following which a man accompanying him heckled and obstructed them.

It led to a heated exchange before the police intervened. A rap song purportedly featuring the teenager, boasting about how he got away with the car crash, went viral on social media, but police clarified that it was a fake account and the teenager had nothing to do with the video. Meanwhile, Ajay Bhosale, a former Shiv Sena Corporator, accused the teenagers grandfather of having links with the underworld. Bhosale, Shiv Senas candidate from Wadgaon Sheri Assembly constituency in 2009, was allegedly shot at during the election campaign in Koregaon Park area. He escaped unhurt, his driver Shakil Sayyad was injured. The case is currently being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the grandfather of the teenager has been named as accused number 6 in it, while gangster Chhota Rajan, currently in jail, is accused number 3. As per an order passed by a court, there was a dispute over property between the grandfather of the juvenile and his brother. The accused sought the help of Vijay Salvi, alleged henchman of Rajan, to persuade his brother to hand over his share of the property.

Speaking to a Marathi channel, Bhosale said he had friendly relations with the brother. He called Chhota Rajan and told him that I was his brothers close friend and supported him, and gave my supari (contract) to Chhota Rajan to eliminate me, Bhosale claimed. The accused grandfather is currently on anticipatory bail in the case. A Porsche, allegedly driven by the 17-year-old, who the police claim was drunk at the time, fatally knocked down two motorbike-borne software engineers in the early hours of Sunday. The teenager was then produced before the JJB which granted him bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay. Following an outcry over quick bail and the polices review plea, the JJB remanded the boy to the observation home till June 5. The Child-in-Conflict with Law (CCL) was immediately sent to the Nehru Udyog Kendra observation home, located at Yerawada, where he is staying with the other CCLs, the official from the facility said.
Refugee Land Scam





D K Soni

PMO orders Cgarh Govt to take action against former Surguja Collector IAS Sanjeev Jha

Staff Reporter

Raipur,

In a major development, Prime Ministers Office (PMO) has shot a letter to Chhattisgarh Government to initiate a probe against former Surguja Collector Sanjeev Jha, on the charges of corruption, emanating from his collusion in granting bulk permission to sell lease of lend given to Bangladeshi refugees for their rehabilitation in Chhattisgarh. These lands were known as Punarwas Patta as per the land records and locally known as Bengali Patta. In this regard, Rupesh Kumar, Under Secretary from Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India (GoI), has shot an official communique to Chief Secretary, Government of Chhattisgarh, to take appropriate action against Sanjeev Kumar Jha, a 2011 batch Indian Administrative Cadre (IAS) officer of Chhattisgarh Cadre. The letter, a copy of which has also been accessed by The Hitavada, highlights that the action sought against the officer is based on a complaint filed to the PMO by one D K Soni, identified as a Right to Information (RTI) activist, based in Surguja. Notably, The Hitavada had run a 3-part investigation series based on a 35-page confidential letter of Income Tax Departments sensational findings into the search and seizure operations carried out on the multiple premises of former Minister Amarjeet Bhagat and others. The multi-part expose, based on the secret I-T Departments communique  also earmarked to Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP)  revealed the systematic abuse of power for amassing wealth by usurping government land meant for rehabilitation of refugees of Bangladesh, who arrived in Ambikapur district of Chhattisgarh after the 1971 Indo-Pak war.





These refugees from Bangladesh were allotted land in and around Subhash Nagar area of Ambikapur. The I-T department findings also disclosed that the syndicate purchased Bengali Patta at very low cost, after getting permission from the District Collector, since he had close proximity with the then Minister Amarjeet Bhagat. The same Bengali Patta lands were later sold at very high/premium costs to other persons including relatives of Amarjeet Bhagat. This Bengali Patta situated at Subhash Nagar in Ambikapur, is a very valuable land worth nearly Rs. 1 crore per acre. Concurrently, RTI activist Dinesh Soni also formally lodged a complaint to this effect at State Economic Offences Investigation and Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) Headquarters here in the state capital, seeking action against former Surguja Collector Sanjeev Kumar Jha, for giving bulk permission to sell rehabilitation land. As per the complaint, Soni alleged that the IAS officer Sanjeev Kumar Jha during his stint as Surguja Collector took hefty bribes for issuing bulk permission from his office regarding the sale of rehabilitation land. In one such instance, Sanjeev Jha colluded with the syndicate members in facilitating the selling of land lease of a refugee Kadam Mandal, by forging fake signatures and issuing authority letters for its sale to a certain individual Rahul Garg and others for Rs 21 lakh.

Kadam Mandal, who lives in Delhi, owned the lease of this land, bearing Khasra Number-223/12 and measured 0.400 hectare, situated at Subhash Nagar area of Ambikapur. Sanjeev Jha as District Collector had issued an order for the sale of this land within a month period, Soni maintained in his complaint to SEOIACB. According to Soni, Collector Jha minted several crores through the syndicate by facilitating the sale of land lease of refugees, even after he was transferred to Korba. Collector Jha alone passed more than half such permission in one day i.e. dated May 26th, 2022, which clearly indicates abuse of power for corruption, he added.





Whole episode is malicious, malafide and devoid of facts: Sanjeev Jha

When The Hitavada contacted, former Surguja Collector Sanjeev Kumar Jha denied the allegations asserting that all necessary rules and regulations of Revenue Department were duly followed in giving permission to facilitate in the sale and purchase of Punarwas Patta (Bengali Patta). As a matter of fact, in the budget session of Chhattisgarh Assembly, it has been accepted that its a judicial power under Chhattisgarh Land Revenue Code (CGLRC). Its judicial power under CGLRC, then any grievance or wrongdoing, if at all, should be challenged in a revenue court.

Here the State Government on the floor of assembly admitted the power of the Collector to grant permission. Exercising this section of CGLRC, such permissions have been given by almost all Collectors of Surguja in the past. Its very much on records and papers, he added. Jha, who is presently posted as Director of Samagra Shiksha in Raipur, further said, the whole episode is malicious, malafide and devoid of facts. However, RTI activist Dinesh Soni has singled out one Collector. It shows his biased attitude, he countered, adding further that the Soni himself and his relative are beneficiaries of buying refugee land, for which he got requisite permission from his successor Collector in Surguja. Jha also underlined that Collector Court cases are admitted, heard and disposed online through the e-court module, but Soni has alleged backdating, which is not possible at all.
Gov't hopes to come to agreement with gas retailers in coming weeks, Halkitis says
Ericsson and Huawei have made separate announcements showcasing advances in carrier aggregation for 5G microwave backhaul  one with Malaysian 5G wholesaler Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) and the other with China Unicom Inner Mongolia, respectively.

Ericsson announced on Thursday that DNB has successfully trialled its multi-band booster solution for mobile backhaul that could boosts the overall capacity and coverage of DNBs 5G network.

A multi-band booster is a type of carrier aggregation solution that combines the traditional microwave bands (6-42 GHz) and the millimetre-wave E band (70/80 GHz) for mobile backhaul links. The idea is to give those links the reach of traditional microwave and the capacity gains of mmWave.

Thus says Ericsson, the solution not only enables wireless backhaul links to travel much longer distances between cell towers and the core network, but also boosts overall network capacity.

The DNB trial utilized Ericssons Mini-Link 6352 for the E band and the Mini-Link 6365 and Mini-Link 6371 for traditional microwave bands. This combination extended the reach of E- up to two times, and enhanced capacity of the traditional band by five times, Ericsson said.

Ericsson also said the multi-band booster solution provides an energy efficient, faster, cost-efficient and simplified solution for extending 5G to rural and underserved areas, particularly for use cases like fixed wireless access (FWA). For example, enterprises in rural areas could use the solution to connect different sites within their enterprise networks without having to wait for fibre to be available.

If nothing else, said Ericsson, it also gives microwave backhaul the capacity and reach to support evolution to 5G Advanced in rural areas, said David Hagerbro, head of Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

The capacity and speed that can be delivered means that the network is capable of supporting the demands of 5G as the technology evolves, he said in a statement. The success of this live test, that was done on a congested site, shows that the DNB 5G network is ready with advanced 5G solutions that will open up new services for both consumers and enterprises, even in rural areas.

Huawei and Unicom combine five microwave bands on one antenna

Meanwhile, Huawei said on Thursday that the Baotou branch of China Unicom Inner Mongolia has completed the world's first commercial test Huaweis MAGICS LH long-haul microwave solution that supports five frequency bands on a single antenna.

Operators need to use multiple bands to get more capacity out of their microwave backhaul links, but that traditionally requires installing a separate antenna for each band. According to Huawei, its MAGICS LH solution combines five bands  6 GHz (upper and lower), 7 GHz, 8 GHz and 11 GHz  onto a single antenna.

This reduces the number of antennas required by 67% compared to conventional solutions, which also translates into reducing microwave backhaul hardware costs by more than 70%, Huawei said.

Unicoms Baotou test involved deploying a microwave link spanning 36 km using the 12+12 SD scheme with 1.8-m and 1.2-m antennas. Huawei says the link delivered 10 Gbps for 5G backhaul between two sites, which is 200% higher than the largest-capacity microwave link currently deployed elsewhere in Inner Mongolia's live network.

Huawei noted that the solution is capable of providing more than 20 Gbps over 50 km, depending on the deployment conditions and bands used.
MOSCOW POLICE

Wednesday

9:08 a.m.  A male was reportedly camped out in the Friendship Square restroom.

9:08 a.m.  A males vehicle was reportedly blocking the roadway on Pullman Road and Hatley Way.

5:44 p.m.  Road rage was reported on D and Jefferson streets.

LATAH COUNTY SHERIFF

Wednesday

10:22 a.m.  A car crash was reported on Idaho Highway 3 in Bovill.

11:15 a.m.  A car crash was reported on Third and Main streets in Juliaetta.

12:41 p.m.  A car crash was reported on Fork Road in Bovill.
Siriya Parveen, BJP district general secretary of Basirhat joined the Trinamul Congress today in the presence of senior party leader and minister Shashi Panja.

The Trinamul Congress posted on X: Today, rising above the vengeful politics of the Nari-birodhi @BJP4Bengal, Smt. Siriya Parveen, BJP District General Secretary of Basirhat, joined us. Rejecting PM @narendramodis guarantees of Nari Ka Apmaan, she vowed to avenge the Sandeshkhali conspiracy.

Siriya Parveen is learnt to have said that they were told to keep plans ready in advance to execute plans and create theatrics in the media. Certain journalists were given a plan of action in advance about what is going to unfold next in Sandeshkhali. I have proofs how texts were sent from TOP to execute fake rape claims. We were paid and mobiles were given, she is believed to have said.

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Experts on Thursday exposed a toolkit against certain business activities of the Adani Group, linking a cartel of Communists, Pakistanis, Islamic radicals, billionaire George Soros and the Western deep state.

The toolkit was exposed after a section of foreign media, including The Financial Times (FT) and the George Soros-backed Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), reported on Adani Group allegedly selling low-grade imported coal in India at the price of high-value coal 10 years ago.

According to the experts, the propaganda articles were written and supported by journalist Anand Mangnale.

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OCCRP and Anand Mangnale posted a propaganda article, which was later re-posted by several people on their social media handles.

According to the experts, The Financial Times of the UK is also part of the toolkit, and a propaganda article against Adani was also posted by the publication.

The experts also said the editor of The Financial Times sits on the board of the Soros and Ford Foundation-funded company.

However, repeated attacks on the Adani Group, with similar allegations made in the past by the same two foreign media organisations  The Financial Times and OCCRP  is something that the market has stopped taking seriously.

According to US-based global brokerage Cantor Fitzgerald, the FT article is just noise from a long time ago.

The Financial Times posted a propaganda article against the Adani Group at 4:34 a.m. on May 22. The toolkit against the Adani Group started spreading on social media from around 7.49 a.m. when a prominent journalist posted the propaganda article.

At 9.42 p.m. the same day, another known activist posted the propaganda article.

Some prominent people also posted old propaganda articles against the Adani Group in the meantime.

The Indian market has appeared to shrug off the report as Adani Enterprises emerged as the top gainer in Nifty on Thursday with a 7.84 per cent rise in its share price.

Adani Ports was also among the top three gainers with a 4.73 per cent rise.

We believe the market is inferring that this is an immaterial story, as do we, Cantor Fitzgerald said in its note

Investors are seeing strong value in Adani Group stocks. In the past one year, the groups market capitalisation increased by 57 per cent and stands at $200 billion now.

The stocks of the Adani Group companies saw great momentum on Thursday as the Indian indices went through a sharp rally, with the flagship Adani Enterprises jumping 8 per cent to emerge as the top gainer.

The 10 listed Adani Group firms now have Rs 17.23 lakh crore as their combined market valuation.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi admitted that the liquor scam was fake.

Addressing a virtual press conference, he said, Yesterday, in an interview, Prime Minister Modi admitted in front of the whole country that the liquor scam is fake, and no evidence has been found in it. He has said that no evidence was found because Kejriwal is an experienced thief.

I appeal to the prime minister that when you have already admitted that the liquor scam is fake and there is no recovery, then release all the people arrested in this case, Kejriwal told the prime minister.

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Attacking the ruling BJP, he said, For the last two years, they have been making noise that there is a liquor scam in Delhi. They arrested me, Sanjay Singh, Manish Sisodia, and conducted more than 500 raids all over the country. Dont know how many more people they arrested. They say that we took a bribe of Rs 100 crore, and just a few days ago, they said that there is a scam of Rs 1,100 crore.

A big question arises that if there is a scam of Rs 100 crore or Rs 1,100 crore, then the money must be kept somewhere. They conducted more than 500 raids; they did not find a single penny anywhere, he said.

Kejriwal, who is also the national convenor of AAP while attacking the Central probe agencies further said, So, your entire CBI is useless, all your CBI officers are useless, all your ED officers are useless. The truth is that Modi ji is making an excuse that Kejriwal is an experienced thief to justify my wrong arrest.
Amid heatwave conditions in the national capital, Delhi will go to polls on Saturday in a single phase on all seven Lok Sabha seats in a close contest between the BJP and the Opposition INDIA bloc, comprising the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress.

The polling in the national capital will be held in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha polls.

The AAP and Congress are contesting the seven seats in alliance in the national capital, with the AAP contesting four and the Congress three seats. The seven parliamentary constituencies are Chandni Chowk, East Delhi, New Delhi, North East Delhi, North West Delhi, South Delhi, and West Delhi.

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The voting is scheduled to commence at 7 am. There are a total of 13,637 polling stations and the number of candidates contesting in the seven Lok Sabha constituencies is 162.

Over 1.52 crore electorate are eligible to cast their vote in Delhi on May 25.

As per Electoral Roll Data, there are a total of 1,52,01,936 electors, election officials said.

Delhi Chief Electoral Officer P. Krishnamurthy said more than one lakh employees have been deployed on polling duty. Security has been beefed up in the national capital for the polling day.

Krishnamurthy said, We are setting up 70 pink polling stations across Delhi, one in each assembly constituency, which will be entirely operated by women polling staff. Additionally, 70 model polling stations will feature enhanced facilities. For the first time, each parliamentary constituency will have a polling station fully staffed by persons with disabilities (PwD).

To enhance voter turnout, the Chief Electoral Office has partnered with Rapido to offer free rides home after voting. Voters will also receive special coupons from Zomato and Swiggy, and various restaurants will provide discounts upon showing voting ink.

Delhi Metro train services on all lines will commence at 4 am from all terminal stations on the day of the Lok Sabha polls in the national capital on May 25.

On the eve of Lok Sabha polls in Delhi, BJP candidates  Manoj Tiwari, Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, Bansuri Swaraj, Harsh Malhotra, Praveen Khandelwal, Yogendra Chandolia and Kamaljeet Sehrawat  expressed confidence in the party winning all the seven seats in Delhi as the people in the national capital have immense faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The high-octane campaigning for in Delhi came to a close on Friday evening with top leaders of the BJP-led NDA and the Opposition INDIA bloc making a last-gasp effort to woo voters.

The end of the campaigning marked the commencement of a 48-hour silence period.

During the campaign, key leaders of the prominent political parties  the BJP, Congress, and AAP reached out to voters participating in public meetings and roadshows.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held two rallies in support of seven BJP candidates contesting the Delhi Lok Sabha polls.

Before the conclusion of campaigning on Thursday, senior BJP leader and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed a public meeting in Dwarka here in support of BJPs West Delhi Lok Sabha constituency candidate Kamaljeet Sehrawat. Union Minister Piyush Goyal held a roadshow in the Najafgarh area while Union Minister Smriti Irani held a roadshow in Ashok Vihar.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in support of the partys North East Delhi candidate Kanhaiya Kumar and later held Mahila Vichar Vimarsh in Mangolpuri.

Key candidates contesting the polls from the BJP are Manoj Tiwari (North East Delhi), Bansuri Swaraj (New Delhi); Ramvir Singh Bidhuri (South Delhi) while J P Agarwal (Chandni Chowk), and Kanhaiya Kumar (North East Delhi) are contesting on Congress tickets. Another prominent candidate is senior AAP leader Somnath Bharti (New Delhi).

The chief electoral office of Delhi has completed all the preparations for the voting day on May 25.

Delhi Chief Electoral Officer P Krishnamurthy detailed the extensive arrangements made to ensure a smooth and efficient electoral process, highlighting the deployment of over 1 lakh polling personnel and the steps taken to protect people from the intense heat wave.

This is a significant day, we have made thorough preparations, he said, adding, We have meticulously planned and executed all aspects of election management, including manpower, logistics, and transport management.

He further said that based on the directives from the Election Commission and the IMD forecast of an intense heat wave, comprehensive measures have been implemented to address the expected high temperatures of 4445 C.

Our preparations are complete. Shaded areas will be established at all polling stations, with fully covered waiting zones equipped with coolers and fans to ensure voter comfort. We have ensured the availability of drinking water, toilets, ramps, and wheelchairs at every polling station under the Assured Minimum Facility Policy so that no voter faces any inconvenience. Additionally, paramedical staff equipped with basic medical kits will be stationed at all polling locations.

Meanwhile, the DCP Election Cell of the Delhi Police, Sanjay Sehrawat, said on Thursday that 33,000 policemen, 51 paramilitary companies, and 17,500 home guards, who have come from Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh, would be deployed in the national capital for the Lok Sabha polls.

Sehrawat informed that drones have been hired in very sensitive areas to monitor any illegal activities. Delhi Police has completed its preparations for the elections to be held on May 25. There are 2628 voting centres out of which 429 are highly sensitive. 33,000 policemen of Delhi Police will be deployed at the polling booth and apart from this, 51 paramilitary companies will also be deployed for security and 17,500 Home Guards who have come from Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and MP will also be deployed, he said.

We have hired drones in very sensitive areas to monitor any illegal activities, he added.

Sehrawat further informed that a large number of CCTV cameras have been installed on the interstate borders as elections in Delhi and Haryana on the same day. We have installed a large number of CCTV cameras on the interstate borders which will be monitored 24 hours. Since there are elections in Delhi and Haryana on the same day, therefore a joint team of Delhi Police and Haryana Police will be checking on the Delhi-Haryana border, he said.

The DCP Election Cell also said during the entire election campaigning, the Delhi Police recovered about Rs 14 crore in cash, which is being investigated to find out where this money was to be used.

The first five phases of polling were held on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20. The next two rounds of voting will be held on May 25 and June 1. The counting of votes and declaration of results will be done on June 4.
May 24 marks twenty-seven months since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine: the opening salvo in Vladimir Putins heinous war of territorial conquest. That represents over 800 days of death, destruction, widespread devastation and immense suffering for the Ukrainian people, said Izumi Nakamitsu, UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs. She warned that any transfer of weapons and ammunition must take place within the applicable international legal framework.

And predictably, as it has in the past, Russia again attempted to shift the blame for the war to Western nations, for supplying Ukraine with the means to defend itself.

Russias pretense that it is assistance to Ukraine and not its own aggression that is prolonging the war is as disingenuous as it is cynical, said Robert Wood, United States Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs. Lets not forget who started this war.

Russia conveniently omits the fact that over 140 countries have repeatedly condemned its aggression against Ukraine and called for its immediate withdrawal from Ukraines internationally-recognized territory, he said. We understand the omission because the fact is inconvenient. It doesnt fit Moscows narrative that it is fighting 'the West.' It doesnt fit Moscows narrative that it is somehow the victim, as it attempts to brutally subjugate another UN Member State.

The fact is that Russia makes appeals to this Council while it brazenly violates Council resolutions, said Ambassador Wood. Since last December, Russian forces have used DPRK ballistic missiles to strike Ukraine nearly a dozen times. Russia also receives weapons from Iran and massive support from China.

Let me be clear: Russia could not sustain its war of territorial conquest without this support, he said.



Finally, Earlier this month, the United States imposed sanctions on Russia for its use of chemical weapons against Ukraine, said Ambassador Wood. We assessed Russian forces used the chemical weapon chloropicrin and riot control agents as a method of warfare to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions.  The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone, under any circumstances.

We urge all countries to cease their military cooperation with Russia, which goes toward supporting an illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, said Ambassador Wood.

Until Russia ceases its attacks and withdraws from Ukraine, the United States will remain committed to providing Ukraine what it needs to defend itself, in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter.
A recent social media video has sparked outrage among fans as a British TV host struggled to pronounce Priyanka Chopras name. While mispronunciations are often brushed aside, supporters of the Love Again star felt this instance was intentional. He called her Chianca Chop Free!

During a segment on Good Morning Britain, British TV host Andi Peters visited Madame Tussauds wax museum to discuss the wax figures of celebrities, effectively immortalizing them. Meanwhile, hosts Adil Ray and Charlotte Hawkins remained in the studio.

Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by imjustbesti (@imjustbesti)

In the video, Andi stumbled over Priyanka Chopras name, eventually referring to her as Chianca Chop Free. Adil Ray promptly interjected, stating, Honestly, Andi. If youre going to stand next to somebody, at least work out what their name is. Thats Priyanka Chopra, the Indian Bollywood actress who is now a massive star in America. Andi Peters later clarified that he was aware of Chopras identity and her marriage to one of the Jonas Brothers, as reported by Daily Mail.

Fans of the Bollywood icon flooded social media with expressions of anger and disappointment, denouncing the incident as unacceptable and madness.

While the online dispute escalated, neither party has officially addressed or commented on the matter.

Priyanka Chopra is ready to star in Ilya Naishullers Heads of State alongside Idris Elba and John Cena, slated for release on Amazon Prime Video after its announcement in October 2020.
Nag Ashwins much-anticipated sci-fi epic, Kalki 2898 AD, has been generating buzz for its stellar cast and the animated prelude preceding its release.

The latest addition to the films ensemble was unveiled at an event held at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. Bujji, the futuristic AI robot car, will accompany Prabhas Bhairava as his faithful sidekick, playing a pivotal role in the upcoming movie. Vyjayanthi Films shared the teaser on YouTube on May 23, quickly amassing a viewership of 8.8 million.

Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vyjayanthi Movies (@vyjayanthimovies)

Anand Mahindra, sharing insights on X, revealed how his teams at Mahindra Research Valley and Jayem Motors contributed to realizing Bujjis vision. He expressed his pride in @nagashwin7 and his team for daring to dream big. Mahindra Research Valley in Chennai simulated the powertrain configuration, architecture, and performance, while Jayem Automotives brought it all together.

During the event, Nag Ashwin recounted reaching out to Anand Mahindra via Twitter to assemble a team for the project. Reflecting on the process of creating the robot car, he described Bujji as a monumental achievement. According to him, they built it meticulously to complement Bhairava.

Amitabh Bachchan, set to portray Ashwathama in the film, took to his blog to applaud Ashwin and the character Bujji. He marveled at Ashwins ingenuity in conceptualizing such technology, praising the directors ability to bring it to fruition.

Kalki 2898 AD stands as Indias most expensive film to date, with a budget of 600 crores. Alongside Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan, it features Deepika Padukone and Kamal Hasan in leading roles. The worldwide theatrical release will be on June 27.
Actress Divya Khossla, who is gearing up for her upcoming thriller movie Savi, has shared that the team shot for 45 days at -6 degrees Celsius in the UK.

She also recollected how she had to wear heavy winter clothing in Mumbai in order to maintain continuity while shooting certain parts of the film.

The actress said: The whole movie was shot in 45 days at -6 degrees Celsius temperature. When you watch the movie, you will feel cold. I personally enjoy working in cold weather and dont prefer working in the summer.

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She further mentioned, We had to do a small bit of shoot here in Bombay also when I had to wear the layered jackets and everything and shoot in this hot weather and that was actually more difficult than shooting in the cold.

The trailer of Savi gives a glimpse of a riveting story where Divyas character carries out a prison break to save her husband (Harshvardhan Rane) from a potential threat to his life after he is framed in a case.

The trailer features several intense sequences including gun fights, hand-to-hand combat, and planning and execution of the jail break.

The film is set to debut in theatres on May 31.
Actress Sobhita Dhulipala made a notable return to Cannes this year after an eight-year hiatus, ensuring she made headlines. Known for her role in Monkey Man, Made in Heaven, she reflected on her time at the event, expressing both nostalgia and pride about seven Indian films making it to the global stage this year.

The celebrated film festival, which also showcases some of the biggest fashion moments of the year, is an amalgamation of art, culture, and fashion. Dhulipala collaborated with Magnum India, the ice cream brand, and turned heads with her breezy, ethereal, and glamorous looks. She donned a shimmery purple jumpsuit for one event, followed by a gold bodycon dress, both curated by Indian designers and houses. In her conversation with IANS ahead of the event, Dhulipala remarked, This experience allows me to create these moments of pleasure, as this association is a perfect blend of fashion, film, and flavor.

Sobhita Dhulipala debuted at Cannes in 2016 for her film Raman Raghav 2.0, which premiered in the Directors Fortnight segment. On Instagram, she shared glimpses of the 30 hours she enjoyed at Cannes and penned a heartfelt caption, So I was in Cannes for exactly 30 hours, courtesy of Magnum India. My second time at the film festival  the first time was with my debut film Raman Raghav 2.0 which premiered in the incredible Directors Fortnight segment in 2016. This time around, though I was there with a brand and not a film, the quiet wonder remains. As does the boisterous laughter and my baguette admiration.

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View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sobhita (@sobhitad)

The Night Manager star walked the red carpet alongside other Indian luminaries like Aishwarya Rai, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Kiara Advani, bolstering Indian representation at the event.

Discussing the events culmination into a glamorous affair, Monkey Man star said, Popular and celebrated events have been portals for new pop culture moments to be created. The iconic Cannes red carpet is glorious for many reasons and seasons  from artists to cinema celebrations to fashion trends to iconic imagery. Its a dynamic environment with much creative charge.

This years film festival was extra special for India, with seven Indian films having premieres. The projects that made it to Cannes include Santosh by Sandhya Suri, Chidananda S Naiks Sunflowers Were The First Ones To Know, the restored version of Manthan, Radhika Aptes Sister Midnight, and Payal Kapadias All We Imagine As Light, a contender for the prestigious Palme Dor award. Expressing her joy and pride in the recognition of seven Indian films and hoping for the international audiences resonance with the works, Dhulipala remarked in the interview, Its an incredible year for Indian films at Cannes, a whopping 7 films in one single year. It is inspiring and exciting. Im looking forward to our stories being sung to this audience and hope they receive the love they deserve.

Sobhita Dhulipala recently received much adulation for her international project The Monkey Man alongside Dev Patel. Speaking of her upcoming works, the actress teased fans, stating, There are two projects Im excited to begin work on, announcements will be out soon. They are very different from all the work Ive put out so far.
The 1976 classic Manthan (1976), the restored version of which was recently showcased in the Classic section of the 77th Cannes Film Festival, will be screened in 50 cities across India on the occasion of World Milk Day on June 1.

The film presents a fictionalised version of the beginning of the dairy cooperative movement that turned India into the worlds largest milk producer inspired by Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution.

The film is also Indias first crowdfunded movie produced by 500,000 dairy farmers who contributed Rs 2 each towards its production.

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The director of the film, Shyam Benegal, said in a statement, I was so pleased to hear about the fantastic response that the restoration of Manthan received at its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. But I am even more delighted that the restored film will be released in cinemas across the country. Manthan will be the first restoration of one of my films that will have a theatrical release.

When Manthan released in 1976, it was a great success as the farmers came to see the film in droves, travelling in bullock carts from small towns and villages. I hope that 48 years later when the restored film comes back to the big screen this June, people across India will come to the cinema to watch the film, he added.

For the screening of the restored version, the Film Heritage Foundation and the Gujarat Co-Operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. have collaborated with PVR-INOX Ltd. and Cinepolis India.

The film will be re-released on June 1 and June 2 across 50 Indian cities.

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah said in a statement, Watching the restored Manthan at its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival was a very emotional experience for me. I was overwhelmed by memories from almost 50 years ago when cinema was a vehicle of change, and was moved to tears by the standing ovation at the end, which was not just for myself. but for the film which has more than stood the test of time and also for the beauty of the restoration.

I am delighted that the film is to be released in cinemas across India and I hope that people will not lose the opportunity to watch the beautiful restoration of a historic film on the big screen. I will be going to the theatre myself to watch the film again, he added.
The Kerala High Court on Friday commuted the death sentence awarded to one of the convicts in the 2014 twin murder case in Keralas Attingal to life imprisonment.

A division bench comprising Justice PB Suresh Kumar and Justice Johnson John converted the death sentence imposed on Nino Mathew to life imprisonment and ordered that he shall not be entitled to remission for a period of 25 years.

So far as the first accused is concerned, his death sentence under Section 302 of the IPC is converted to imprisonment for life. It is also made clear that the first accused shall not be entitled to any remission for a period of 25 years, the court said.

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The court dismissed Anu Shanthis appeal and confirmed the life sentence imposed upon her by the sessions court.

The Thiruvananthapuram Principal Sessions Court, in 2016, awarded death sentence to the prime accused Nino Mathew, and life sentence to co-convict Anu Shanthi.

Nino and Anu, former Technopark employees, were found guilty of murdering Anu Shanthis mother-in-law Omana (60) and her three-year-old daughter Swastika after Anus husband Lijeesh objected to her extramarital affair with Nino. Lijeesh, however, escaped the murder attempt and sustained injuries.

In 2014, Nino Mathew, a software engineer in Thiruvananthapurams Technopark, allegedly went to Shanthis house and introduced himself as Shanthis husband Lijeeshs friend.

On entering the home, he stabbed Shanthis mother-in-law and the child to death. Lijeesh was also attacked but he escaped the attempt on his life with injuries and was able to alert the neighbours.

Within 24 hours of the incident, the state police arrested Nino, who confessed to the crime. They later arrested Shanthi as well after an extra-marital affair between her and Mathew came to light. They had planned to eliminate Lijeesh, his mother, and the infant daughter of Lijeesh and Shanthi.

The duo were charged with murder, criminal conspiracy, attempt to destroy evidence, and theft. The charge of transmitting obscene material in electronic form was also added after the police found some explicit videos of the two on Mathews digital devices.

The High Court had last year ordered mitigation studies to be conducted into the death sentence reference of Nino Mathew as well as a death sentence reference made with respect to Muhammed Ameer-ul-Islam who was convicted in the Dalit law student murder case.

A Bench of Justice Alexander Thomas (now retired) and Justice C Jayachandran had appointed two mitigation investigators associated with Project 39A (a criminal justice programme at National Law University, Delhi that represents death row prisoners) to assist the court in deciding whether the death penalty was warranted for the two convicts.
In a major relief to Samajwadi Party leader Mohammad Azam Khan and his family, the Allahabad High Court on Friday granted bail to him, his wife Tanzeem Fatima and son Abdullah Azam in two fake birth certificate cases.

The court also stayed the 7-year imprisonment given by a trial court in the case.

A single bench of Justice Sanjay Kumar Singh approved the bail of Khan, Tanzeem and Abdullah, and stayed the sentence of seven years.

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The verdict was given on a criminal revision petition.

State Advocate General Ajay Kumar Mishra had argued on behalf of the state government. Additional Advocate General P C Srivastava and state counsels A K Sand and J K Upadhyay, also presented the states side, while senior advocate Imranullah Khan argued on behalf of the Azam family. Senior Supreme Court advocate Kapil Sibal also argued for the family.

Khan, his wife and son had been sentenced to seven years imprisonment each by the MP-MLA special court of Rampur in the fake birth certificate cases. This was challenged by filing the criminal revision petition.

According to officials, the second birth certificate of Abdullah was used for contesting assembly polls. But, his election was canceled by the High Court on the election petition. He did not get relief even from the Supreme Court.

His date of birth is recorded as January 1, 1993 in the educational certificate, and September 30, 1990 in the certificate issued from Municipal Corporation Lucknow.

A case was registered against all three.

In the 2017 Uttar Pradesh polls, Abdullah was elected as SP MLA from Swar assembly seat. His rival candidate Nawab Kazim Ali Khan alias Naved Mian as well as BJP leader Akash Saxena complained about contesting the election on a fake birth certificate as Abdullah was not qualified to contest the same.
As Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin announced Googles decision to partner with Tamil Nadu to manufacture its flagship Pixel smartphones in the state it set off a war of words in neighbouring Karnataka.

The opposition BJP accused the ruling Congress of losing out to its neighbour due to the falling standard of law and order in the state.

Karnataka loses another investor to neighbouring state. The deteriorating law and order and unease of doing business in Karnataka due to the failing governance of the Congress govt is pushing investors and job creators to move out of the state. The BJP turned Karnataka into an economic powerhouse, while CM Siddaramaiah is destroying it through his illogical policies, the BJP said in a post on X.

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Responding to the allegations Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar in turn accused the BJP of twisting facts.

It is shameful of BJP leaders who have tweeted this. Let them check the documents first  how many investors and businessmen have gone out of the country and settled outside India for the harassment which has been given by the BJP Government. When the Congress party came here, a lot of investors cameNow, after the elections, we will show you and come out with a list of interested people. Karnataka is a place for growth, development, peace DK Shivakumar said.

Earlier on Friday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that Google Pixel smartphones will soon be manufactured locally in the State at a facility near Chennai.

State Industry Minister TRB Raja had visited the US headquarters of Google along with Foxconn company officials and held discussions about starting a business in Tamil Nadu, Stalin said. As a result of these negotiations, Google officials have offered to set up a Google Pixel cell phone manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu along with Foxconn, the chief minister said today.

Officials from Google met with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in Chennai on Thursday, the Chief Minister said. The CM said that this development will lead to employment opportunities for the youth of Tamil Nadu who have obtained higher education in the field of information technology.

Manufacturing units of Samsung and Apple smartphones are already present in the State and now the Sundar Pichai-led Alphabet Inc. has jumped into the fray to capitalise on the rising demand for premium smartphones among consumers in the country, which is estimated as the worlds second-largest smartphone market.

Indias smartphone market shipped 34 million smartphone units in the first quarter of 2024. It also registered an 11.5 per cent growth YoY (year-over-year), making it the third consecutive quarter of growth in shipments, as per the Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker by International Data Corporation.

Tamil Nadu, Indias largest exporter of electronic goods in FY23, accounted for 30% of all electronic goods exports from India in FY24.
Prime Minister Narender Modi said that with a hat-trick on the cards, the BJP is getting tremendous support in Himachal Pradesh, which shows peoples faith in the politics of development.

I need blessings to make a powerful India, to make a Viksit Bharat, to make a Viksit Himachal, said Modi, while addressing two public meeting in the state at Mandi and Nahan to garner vote for Mandi Lok Sabha candidate Kangna and Suresh Kashyap for Shimla LS seat on Friday.

The BJP-NDA alliance has secured more seats than needed for a majority and the four seats from Himachal Pradesh to this tally would be the icing on the cake, he claimed, adding that Himachal will make it a hat-trick with BJP winning 4 seats and Congress zero.

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The people of Devbhumi dont let anything go to waste, so no Himachali will let their vote go in vain, claimed Modi.

Recalling Himachal Pradesh as the Sankalp Bhoomi for the construction of Ram Mandir at Ayodhya, Modi said, The Palampur session of the BJP marked a historic moment as we resolved to build a grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. This signifies Himachal as a land of determination for the construction of the Ram Mandir.

The Congress alliance with the INDIA bloc reflects extreme casteism, nepotism, communalism, and opportunism, driven by selfish motives, he charged.

Taking a dig at the Congress, he said, This country isnt shaped by those who rely solely on their ancestors legacy. Its forged by those who emerge from humble beginnings, climb the heights of success, and contribute to its growth.

He further said the Congress prefers an India marred by poverty, crises, and pervasive problems, aiming to regress the nation to its former state.

Their agenda signals a backward shift in the countrys development trajectory, he alleged.

Blaming Congress for neglecting the border areas of the country, he said, When it came to building roads in the border state, the Congress was helpless. The Congress was afraid that if the road was built, the enemy would come inside. Such timid thinking does not match with Modis temperament.

Unlike Congress, Modi has invested many times more funds to build roads and infrastructure on the borders. Today, hundreds of kilometers of roads have been constructed along the border, significantly improving the lives of both the soldiers and civilians residing in these areas, he said.

Modi criticized the corruption, misgovernance, and anti-women policies of Congress party while highlighting the welfare and developmental initiatives undertaken by the BJP-NDA.

During his address at Nahan in Sirmaur district Modi remarked that while he was acquainted with the place, the ambiance today felt entirely different.

I used to work within the organization, organizing elections among people, but Ive never been able to hold such a large rally here in Sirmaur, he reminisced, adding that todays rally will be the biggest in the history of Sirmaur.

The love and blessings of the people always make me feel like a Himachali. Times have changed, but Modi hasnt. The relationship between Modi and Himachal remains as strong as ever, he asserted.

Mandi Lok Sabha constituency spans from one end to the other, connecting the Beas and Sutlej rivers, encompassing remote areas like Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi, and Bharmour. Despite these challenging terrains, people have come from far and wide for such a large gathering today, he said.

Appealing to the public to vote for BJP he said, he has come to Himachal to seek the peoples blessings for the formation of a BJP government for the third time.

I dont seek blessings for myself, nor for my family, nor for my community. I am seeking blessings to build a strong India. I seek blessings for the development of Viksit Bharat and for the progress of Viksit Himachal, said Modi.

He said the Congress deceived the people of Himachal Pradesh with plenty of lies and false promises just to gain power.

The people of Himachal trusted them, but the promises made to be fulfilled in the first cabinet were not fulfilled. Instead, the cabinet itself fell apart. Congress had promised to give Rs 1500 to the people, but they didnt fulfill that promise, he said.

In the first cabinet, they pledged to create one lakh jobs, but they failed to do so, he said, adding that this is Taalebaaz (One who locks) Congress, which has even locked the commission that conducts job exams.

Accusing Congress government in Himachal for misappropriation of funds, he said, I will uncover the extent of embezzlement that has occurred with the funds allocated during times of disaster, and identify those responsible for looting. I pledge to return these funds directly to the people of Mandi.

The people of Himachal Pradesh have been fed up with this deceitfulness for years, he claimed.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said that during COVID-19 crisis, when the country was in trouble, members of the Congress and the Samajwadi Party were missing. Among the two boys (Akhilesh and Rahul), one fled to England while the other went to Italy, he added.

Addressing a public meeting in Sakhopar in favour of party candidate Vijay Kumar Dubey from Kushinagar Lok Sabha seat, the Chief Minister said: During the rule of Congress and SP, the poor and Musahar community was starving to death, and at that time, we all protested to fight for their rights. Today, under the Prime Ministers leadership, we have provided each Musahar family with a house, a land lease, and a ration card.

He stated that under PM Modis guidance and JP Naddas leadership, the BJP has become the worlds largest political party. For the BJP, the nation comes first. During the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi gave party workers the slogan Seva Hi Sangathan.

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Under PM Modis tenure, free testing, treatment, vaccines, and free rations to 80 crore people were provided. In contrast, during the SP and Congress regimes, this same ration was consumed by corrupt people sitting in authoritative positions, he said.

Yogi said, In the past 10 years, the respect for the country has increased worldwide, our borders are secure, and terrorism and Naxalism have been controlled. Now, if a firecracker explodes loudly, Pakistan starts explaining. They know not to mess with India because India wont spare them.

He elaborated that during the decisive battle against encephalitis, JP Nadda served as the Health Minister of the nation and generously offered unlimited funding. The concept of establishing a medical college in Kushinagar was once merely a dream. However, today, this medical college is well on its way to completion.

Previously, when one arrived here, it was uncertain whether there was a proper road or just potholes. In the past, cars moved at the speed of a cart, but today, vehicles move like bullet trains, added CM Yogi.

Underscoring the significant developmental initiatives underway in the nation, Yogi emphasized the construction of highways, expressways, railways, and institutions of higher education. Robust arrangements for flood protection have been made in this region.

PM Modi has initiated the construction of an International Tourism Centre here. If the COVID-19 crisis hadnt occurred, Kushinagar would have shone like Thailand and Singapore, he said.

Presently, there is only one slogan echoing across the country, Fir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar, Abki Baar 400 Paar. People from SP and Congress questioned how would you cross 400, and people answered by saying Jo Ram Ko Laye Hai, Ham Unko Layenge, Yogi said.

CM Yogi Adityanath said that PM Modi has ended the 500-year wait and the construction of the magnificent Ram temple in Ayodhya has been completed. But the people of Congress and SP say that Rams temple is useless. Thats why I say that this election is between Ram Bhakts and Ramdrohis.

Taking a dig at the opposition, he said, The Congress manifesto is very dangerous. The Mamata government in West Bengal had given OBC reservation to 118 Muslim castes, which was rejected by the Calcutta High Court. I.N.D.I alliance want to undermine the reservations of SC, ST, and OBC, so one must be cautious of them. They say that if they come, they will implement personal law, which means Taliban-like rule. Then daughters wont be able to go to school, women will be kept in burqas. They will reintroduce triple talaq.

He stated that the members of the INDIA bloc are those who sow the seeds of division in the country. They claim that if they come to power, they will food preferences to minorities. Is there any difference in the food of minorities and the majority? Their paths diverge in just one aspect. When a Muslim desires to consume beef, Hindus oppose it. The Congress is discussing promoting cow slaughter. Will you become a partner in this sin?

BJP National President JP Nadda, former Union Minister Rajya Sabha MP RPN Singh and other dignitaries were present on this occasion.
The United States has been clear about [our] positions in private with our Israeli partners, just as we have articulated them publicly time and again, said Robert Wood, United States Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs.

The United States commitment to Israels security is ironclad. And I want to repeat: ironclad. We want to see Hamas defeated, Sinwar and other Hamas leaders brought to justice, and the hostages released. We have been very clear that we oppose Hamas control of Gaza, he said. At the same time, we also do not support, and will not support, an Israeli reoccupation of Gaza. And we have long maintained our objection to any large-scale military operation in Rafah that risks mass civilian harm.

According to the United Nations, the situation in Gaza has been described as a catastrophe, a nightmare and hell on earth. In the past two weeks, more than 800,000 people have been displaced from Rafah into other areas of Gaza. Most of the displaced have sought refuge in Khan Younis and Deir al Balah, but the situation there is horrendous, with inadequate latrines, water points, drainage and shelter.

It is, therefore, evident  that Israels preparations to meet the needs for those displaced people are insufficient, said Ambassador Wood. Israel should take immediate and decisive actions to remedy this situation and ensure protection of civilians. There must be no delay. Lives depend on it.

If there is a bright spot in this disaster, its the opening of the maritime corridor. The first shipments of humanitarian assistance [have] arrived on the shores of Gaza through the multinational humanitarian pier, said Ambassador Wood. When at full operating capacity, the humanitarian maritime corridor can provide assistance for up to 500,000 people in one month.

More aid from the United States and other countries continues to arrive in Cyprus, where it will be loaded onto ships for delivery to the pier. But in the effort to mitigate famine, aid by sea is not a substitute for aid provided by land, he said. And so, the United States continues to work to further increase the amount of aid getting into Gaza by land crossings.

As President Biden emphasized yesterday, we need an immediate ceasefire to stop the fighting and bring the hostages home, said Ambassador Wood. Hamas must comply with the Security Councils resolutions and release the hostages. That is how to bring the fighting to an end.
India believes that a free, open, safe, secure, peaceful, prosperous and stable Indo-Pacific is a necessary precondition for peace, security and prosperity of the world, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday amid Chinas aggressive posturing on maritime issues.

The transformation of India is critical to strengthening multipolarity in Asia itself, a prerequisite for a multipolar world. Indias growing weight will ensure that the overall balance in the world order remains in favour of freedom, openness, transparency and a rules-based order, he said while addressing the Nikkei Asia 2024 Future of Asia Forum.

Noting that Indias approach to an uncertain world has been shaped by its broadening horizons, widening interests and a reformist agenda, Dr Jaishankar said the country seeks to lead by example.

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The ongoing Lok Sabha elections, he emphasised, underline that democracies can really deliver. That delivery is seen in socio-economic benefits being efficiently distributed on an impressive scale. Whether it is digital delivery of public goods and services or the ease of living, our start-up and innovation ecosystem or ease of doing business, India is now racing to catch up even while seeking to leapfrog.

The Indian minister said Indias infrastructure progress is also keeping pace. We are building 28 kilometres of highway every day, 14 kilometres of railway track daily, creating eight new airports and on an average 1.5 metros every year. Alongside, we have doubled the number of our technical and medical institutions. This is the India that seeks to attract more partnerships from Japan, he added.

Dr Jaishankar observed that the world is undergoing a flux driven by geopolitical, geo-economic and geo-technological developments. In the last four decades, economic and political rebalancing accelerated by globalisation has been driving us towards multipolarity. Today, the global order is visibly under stress, with Asia and the Indo-Pacific very much part of this transformation.

But it is not just change we are seeing; there is also much greater risk-taking. It is visible in the conflict in Ukraine, in violence in the Middle East and in the disregard for international law and agreements in Asia and the Indo-Pacific. This has economic facets, perhaps even more concerning, he added.

He said India, under Prime Minister Modis leadership, has initiated the Neighbourhood First Policy for the Sub-Continent. This is a consultative, outcome-oriented and non-reciprocal approach that has promoted regionalism by extending credit lines and grants.

India and ASEAN are neighbours sharing millennia-old cultural and civilizational linkages. ASEAN is at the heart of Indias Act East Policy which matured into a wider Indo-Pacific vision. We strongly support ASEAN unity, centrality and cohesion. The Trilateral Highway from India to Thailand and beyond, when completed, will literally bring our regions much closer, he added.

Dr Jaishankar said the ongoing Lok Sabha elections underline that democracies can really deliver. That delivery is seen in socio-economic benefits being efficiently distributed on an impressive scale.

Underlining the need for further consolidation of India-Japan relationship in diverse areas, he said the challenges facing the global order have only underlined the importance of cooperation and coordination amongst countries, particularly in Asia. India believes in moving forward through engagement and dialogue, multipolarity and reformed multilateralism. We will work with Japan and our Asian partners to realise a secure, sustainable and prosperous future of Asia, he added.
The Supreme Court on Friday declined to pass any direction to the Election Commission on a plea by the Association for Democratic Reforms seeking publication of polling booth-wise voter turnout data.

Adopting a hands off approach in the midst of the ongoing general election, the court noted that polling for the five phases is already over, and the sixth one will go to polls on Saturday.

Refusing to pass order as sought by the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms by its May 9, application, a vacation bench of Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma adjourned the hearing (on the application), noting that the prayer B in the main petition filed by ADR in 2019 is similar to the prayer A in the application filed by it (ADR) on May 9, 2024.

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The hands-off approach is needed in the middle of the election process, observed the apex court while adjourning the application, the bench said.

Adjourning the hearing on the application, the vacation bench said, Prima facie we are not inclined to grant any interim relief since prayer B of the 2019 petition is similar to prayer A of the 2024 application. List the both main petition and application before an appropriate bench after (summer) vacation.

At the outset of the hearing, the Election Commission questioned the maintainability of the application by the NGO ADR stating that it has been filed after April 26 judgment where in all the issues including g form 17 C data were dealt with.

The Commission said that NGO ADR approached the top court without referring to April 26, 2024, judgment. Byn the said judgment, the Supreme Court, finding no flaws in the working of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), rejected the plea for 100% cross verification of EVM votes with the VVPAT slips.

Deprecating the repeated filing of applications by the NGO ADR in the midst of the elections based on unfounded apprehensions and susp8icition, senior advocate Maninder Singh appearing for the Election Commission said that continuous questioning of the election process has a discouraging effect on the voters turnout as was witnessed in the initial phases, which, now was showing upward trend. He blamed the discouraging voters turnout in the initial phases on such approaching of the top court on by the vested interests.

Maninder Singh said that such an attitude is causing damage to the public interest by always putting a question mark on the sanctity of the elections.

Earlier, the poll panel had in an affidavit told the top court that voter turnout data based on Form 17C (records of votes polled in each polling station) will cause confusion among voters as it will also include postal ballot counts. The poll panel had contended that there is no legal right that can be claimed seeking the publication of final authenticated data of voter turnout at all polling stations.

On May 17, the top court had sought the Election Commissions response on NGO ADRs plea seeking uploading the details of the votes polled, recorded at all the polling stations after the close of polling of each phase in the ongoing 2024 Lok Sabha election including figures released by the returning officer of each Lok Sabha constituency.

Pointing to the inordinate delay in the publication of final voter turnout data of the first two phases of the ongoing election  by 11 days and 4 days respectively  the applicant NGO ADR had said that there was a sharp spike in figures of the final voter turnout percentages compared to initial voter turnout percentage released by the Election Commission.

The ADR had sought a direction to the Election Commission to provide tabulated polling station-wise data in absolute figures of the number of votes polled as recorded, in Form 17C Part- I, after each phase of polling in the ongoing 2024 Lok Sabha elections and also a tabulation of constituency-wise figures of voter turnout in absolute numbers in the on-going 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

It had further asked for directions for uploading on the ECI website the scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part- II which contained the candidate-wise result of counting after the compilation of results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The application had said the voter turnout data for the first two phases of the Lok Sabha elections were published by the ECI on April 30, after 11 days of the first phase of polling held on April 19 and four days after the second phase of polling held on April 26.
Highlighting the importance of safeguarding borders, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday said the country would have progressed at a faster pace if its frontiers had been more secure.

He was speaking at the Border Security Forces (BSF) investiture ceremony here.

Secure borders are not only important for territorial integrity but also have a significant impact on the internal security of the country. Frontiers hold a lot of importance because that is the limit which defines sovereignty, Doval said.

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Presume if both our borders with our western and northern neighbours had been secure and not in a state of an adversarial disposition, how would it have affected the nations internal and external security?Indias economic progress would probably had been much faster if we had more secure borders, he emphasized.

The National Security Advisor (NSA) said during the last 10 years, the Narendra Modi government had paid high attention towards security and management of the borders.

He further underlined that there is no Diwali in which the prime minister had not gone to the farthest frontiers of our country.

He added that the border guarding forces also hold significance and have the responsibility to be alert 24 x7 as in the foreseeable future, the borders are going to be as secure as required for fast growth.

The secure borders are also crucial for preventing insurgency, organized crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, among others, Doval said.

The NSA said the times are changing and India is also changing at a fast pace, and in the next 10 years, the countrys economy will be a 10 trillion dollar economy.

He added that the nation will have the worlds largest workforce and technically will be advanced in semiconductors, manufacturing of defense equipment and also evolve as a major global supply hub
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is contesting from this city of great religious and cultural significance known as the abode of Shiva, has sent letters to the voters seeking their support in the June 1 election.

The letters were received by artists, businessmen, and other prominent personalities of the district. It has also been delivered to the homes of BHU professors and doctors.

In the letter, the prime minister introduced himself as a person who is deeply associated with the pride and spirituality of Kashi (the spiritual name of Varanasi).

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The letter reads:

Greetings with regards!

You have to be informed that the biggest festival of Indian democracy is going on. Voting in Kashi Lok Sabha is to be held on June 1. The heartfelt love of all of you in Kashi has made me a Banarasi. Not only an MP but I find myself as a son of Kashi.

It is a request to all of you that on June 1, every vote should be cast in favor of BJP. Today, the future of the country is being built with the power of your one vote. You have a big contribution in making India powerful. If we talk about Kashi, you know more than me. The resolutions we had taken for the development of Kashi in these ten years are being fulfilled one by one. Whatever I have been able to do with the blessings of Baba Vishwanath, a lot remains to be done.

The 2024 election is important in many ways. The resolve of a developed India will be fulfilled only with your vote and support.

On June 1, actively contribute in bringing your own family members and people from your organization to the polling place. Let us move together to take our culture, our tradition, our pride to greater heights.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a public meeting in Uttar Pradesh tomorrow when polling will be held in 14 Lok Seats in the state in the sixth phase.

According to BJP officials here, the PM will address a public meeting in Ghazipur at RTI Ground at 4:30 pm.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will address an election meeting in the PMs constituency on Saturday.

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Varanasi Cantt MLA Saurabh Srivastava said that the Chief Minister will reach Assi Ghat at 5:30 pm.

First of all, the CM will worship Mother Ganga. After that he will address the public meeting, he said.

This will be the first time that a Chief Minister will hold a public meeting at the Ghat. Around 30,000 people are likely to attend the CM meeting, said the BJP leaders.
Pune Police commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Friday asserted that no preferential treatment was given to the minor boy allegedly involved in mowing down two IT professionals in Maharashtra.

Addressing a press conference, he denied allegations that the 17-year-old boy, the son of a real estate developer, was served pizzas and burgers in custody following the incident on May 19.

The boy is accused of ramming his Porsche into a motorbike killing two persons  Aneesh Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta  at Kalyaninagar in Pune.

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The teens family has, however, claimed that their driver was behind the wheel when the accident happened.

The crime branch officials on Thursday questioned the grandfather and minor friend of the 17-year-old boy.

The driver, employed by the family of the minor involved in the car accident, in a statement to the police said that the teen was insisting on going behind the wheel and he had to call the father to inform the latter about it.

The minors father, a prominent builder, asked him to let the teen drive the car, the driver told the authorities.

According to the police, the accused teenagers friend and the driver were accompanying him in the car when the fatal accident took place.

Meanwhile, the mother of the minor came out with a video where she is seen crying and pleading for help, and urging the authorities to not punish her son. She also termed as fake another viral footage purportedly showing her son boasting about how he got away with the incident.

NCP leader and Baramati MP Supriya Sule on Thursday questioned Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the incident. She said Fadnavis should reveal who tried to pressure the police and how the minor got bail.

Sule also expressed her surprise at Devendra Fadnavis rushing to Pune and making comments about the accident. Fadnavis told reporters that police should not come under any political pressure. I want to tell him that those in power can pressure the police in such probes. My question to Fadnavis is who pressured the police and how despite such a heinous crime, the kid got bail, she told a news agency.

In a controversial move, the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) granted bail to the minor under the condition that he would write a 300-word essay on the effect of road accidents and the solution, study traffic rules, give a presentation on the same and assist accident victims in the future, if he witnesses any.

On Thursday, the bail was cancelled by the JJB, given the nationwide anger due to its alacrity. The minor has been sent to an observation home till June 5 as per the JJBs order.

The minor may now be tried as an adult as the Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said in a review application before the JJB to allow the minor to be tried as an adult. The Pune Police also sought the minor to be sent to a remand home.

Moreover, along with the juveniles father, the sessions court also remanded two employees of the Hotel Black Club, where the minor reportedly consumed alcohol before the accident.

An FIR has also been registered against the minor under sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 304 A (causing death by negligence), 279 (rash driving) and relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act, a senior police official said.
As Haryana gears up for its turn to vote during the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 25, the political landscape is more uncertain than ever. The state, with its 10 constituencies, is witnessing a turbulent phase marked by shifts in political alliances, caste dynamics, and socio-economic discontent.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which secured a landslide victory winning all 10 seats in 2019, faces an uphill battle to retain its dominance amid growing challenges. The BJPs success in the previous election was buoyed by a wave of nationalist fervour following the Pulwama attack and subsequent Balakot airstrikes. However, factors that once played in their favour seem less potent today. Haryana has seen significant political reshuffling, most notably the replacement of Manohar Lal Khattar with Nayab Saini as Chief Minister and the dissolution of the BJP-JJP alliance. These changes reflect deeper uncertainties within the states political fabric. A crucial element in this election is the caste dynamics, particularly the mobilisation of the Jat community.

Jats, who constitute around 24 per cent of Haryanas electorate, traditionally influence the states political outcomes. Historically inclined towards the BJP, the community has shown signs of shifting allegiance, largely due to dissatisfaction with the farm laws and the Agniveer recruitment scheme. The discontent among Jats is further compounded by the recent protests led by farmers and women wrestlers, who have found a sympathetic ear in Congress leader Bhupender Hooda. The BJP is now trying to consolidate support among non-Jat communities, such as Brahmins, Yadavs, Baniyas, and Punjabis. By appointing Mr Saini, an OBC leader, as Chief Minister, the BJP hopes to secure backing from other backward classes. This strategy indicates the partys recognition of the need to broaden its appeal amid waning support from Jats. Both the BJP and Congress have significantly overhauled their candidate lists, reflecting the evolving electoral calculus.

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The BJP has replaced six of its MPs, and Congress has introduced new faces for eight of the nine seats it is contesting. This highlights both parties attempts to address changing voter sentiments and regional dynamics. Key contests in Rohtak, Hisar, and Sirsa will serve as bellwethers for the states political future. In Rohtak, the battle between Deepender Hooda of Congress and BJPs Arvind Sharma is a crucial test of the Hooda familys influence.

Hisar presents a fascinating scenario with three members of the Chautala clan vying for dominance from different parties, making it a microcosm of Haryanas complex political rivalries. Sirsa, with former Congress leader Ashok Tanwar now representing the BJP against Kumari Selja of Congress, underscores the shifting allegiances and intra-party challenges within the SC community. As voters head to the polls, the interplay of caste dynamics, leadership changes, and socio-economic issues will shape the states future. The BJPs ability to navigate these complexities and the Congresss efforts to reclaim lost ground will determine the verdict
With only weeks to go before the 2024 Olympics in Paris, I was reminiscing about my working days for a French company earlier in this century; I was based in the US but had to frequently go to Paris. Of course, I have seen all the usual tourist attractions there including the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame, but as an artist I can say that a visit to Paris is worth it just to see the Louvre. The Louvre is the best and largest museum in the world. It is a must see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. It is said that if one spends three seconds before each exhibit it will take five months to see the entire museum.

If watching items at the Louvre Museum was an event at the Olympics ala a beauty pageant and I was the judge asked to pick three exhibits to be the medal winners, what would I do? Let me retrace the footsteps around the Louvre in my head from fond memories of the day I spent at the museum during one of my visits. A striking aspect of the museum even before entering is the unique pyramid shaped entry structure in the front yard. It was commissioned in 1981 by then French president Francois Mitterrand and construction was completed in 1987. The architect was Chinese-American I. M. Pei, who has also designed many other famous buildings around the world. The pyramid caused a storm of controversy at the beginning. The main objection was that the contemporary glass and steel look simply did not blend with classical Renaissancestyle French architecture. Some were also unhappy that a Chinese person, who had no appreciation for French culture was awarded the job.

The fact that the pyramid symbolizes death was considered inappropriate. Initially, I was also sceptical about the wisdom of this decision but now love the pyramid. There was a practical consideration for erecting a separate entry structure. From the entrance, the visitors descend downwards to a platform with extensive networks of walkways to entrances of various sections of the museum; this was a much better plan to control the traffic flow from the point of view of architectural strength of the buildings. The transparent nature of the pyramid does not block anything from the overall external view of the building. The contrast in styles adds novelty. The pyramid will not qualify to win a medal in my imaginary contest because it is not an exhibit, but it certainly deserves special recognition.

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Once inside, I was awed by the majestic stairway which took me from the first to second floor and right there at the top of the stairs was the statue known as Wings of Victory or Nike of Samothrace. She majestically stands there spreading her large wings looking like a guardian angel and invoking a feeling of triumph; I immediately fell in love with the statue. So much so that after returning to the US, I bought a replica of the statue and placed it at the top of my stairway to relive that moment every day. The sad thing about the statue is that its head as well as two arms are missing. I wondered every day about how the complete statue looked like. Finally, I decided to do a painting of the statue where I added her head and two arms and turned her into an angel. I placed the painting right behind the statue in my home. Yes, this statue certainly deserves a medal, perhaps the bronze medal.

My next memorable stop at the museum was the site of the Venus de Milo ( VDM) statue. I have been obsessed with VDM since my childhood. I had an art tutor who taught me to do pencil sketches and assigned me to sketch several Greco-Roman figures. My two favourite ones were VDM and the Discus Thrower. My love affair with VDM continues even today. I love her curves, her pose, her clothes hanging low exposing her navel and lower abdomen but still covering her private parts; yet she looks so innocent. The statue is displayed prominently at the Louvre. It is situated at the end of a long hallway so that one can keep looking at it while walking towards it. One can walk around the statue and look at it from every angle. Salvador Dali was also obsessed with the VDM statue and did a painting based on the sculpture which is on display at the Dali Museum in Saint Petersburgh in Florida. The VDM statue will make it to my medal stand as the silver medal winner.

The Louvre is, of course, almost synonymous with the Mona Lisa. Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is the most famous, most visited, most written about, most sung about and financially the most valued artwork in the world. The model is reportedly a woman named Lisa Gherardini and Mona is a version of Madam. However, I must admit that the Mona Lisa exhibit was almost anti-climactic. The room is always crowded. The size of the painting was relatively small, certainly smaller than I expected, and it was displayed very blandly on a large wall. There was a queue cordoned off with ropes. I slowly inched forward like everyone else until I arrived at the very front of the line right across from the painting. I stood there for a long time with my eyes fixated on the eyes of Mona Lisa; I was trying to gauge if there was a subtle smile on her face.

There was an American family behind me: husband, wife and two small kids. There was enough space between me and the rope that they could have walked past me, but I suppose they were waiting to be on my spot which was the closest to the painting. After a while, they got a little impatient and the wife commented to the husband, What is the matter with this man? Will he just stand there for the rest of the afternoon? They obviously thought that I did not understand English. I controlled my urge to say what I was thinking: I will stand here as long as I please. This is not a drive-through lane in your fast-food joint. I do not remember how long I stood there and what the family behind me ended up doing. The queuing system has reportedly been changed in 2019 so that no one can stand longer than 30 seconds in front of the painting.

I stood there because I felt hypnotized by Mona Lisa. There are dozens of paintings of faces of beautiful women in museums throughout Europe; there is even Portrait of a Woman by Leonardo himself at the Louvre, but there is something magical about this painting. I cannot explain it. I agree with thousands of other art critics; Mona Lisa wins the gold medal. There are hundreds of other exhibits  both paintings and sculptures. Honourable mentions go to Michelangelos slave statues, Psyche Revived by the Kiss of Cupid, Mercury, Lamassus and the painting, Liberty leading the people which inspired the Statue of Liberty. One can spend the whole day just walking around the majestic hallways. I will not attend the Paris Olympics but would love to go back to the Louvre and continue strolling through the exhibit halls.

(The writer, a physicist who worked in industry and academia, is a Bengali settled in America.)
Kazi Nazrul Islam turns 125 today. He is not an old man though ~ rather pretty young, as his poems and songs even today look fresh, full of the robust radicalism and passionate love that characterise youth. In Bengal, even today his poems are read and songs are sung with great vigour and passion. But unfortunately, unlike Tagore, he is not considered an intellectual. Masses love him and the intellectuals mourn his loss of memory at an early age and never refer to him either in writings or in addas while debating fervently on socio-politicocultural issues.

If the situation is this in Bengal, one can easily imagine how Nazrul is received today outside Bengal. The tag of the Rebel Poet has imprisoned him in a cocoon which he does not deserve. How many of us really know that Nazrul has three books of short stories, three novels, thirty-six plays and four collections of essays? Like Tagore, he also wrote innumerable letters to his friends, newspapers and public forums. His essays and letters, especially, need to be read with serious contemplation to understand present-day India better. One of his letters, in this context, deserves special mention. This long letter was published in a monthly magazine Saugat in the Bengali year 1334 (corresponding to 1927). The letter was written by Nazrul as a response to another letter and as a form of self defense. The letter to which Nazrul was responding was, however, not published in Saugat but in another magazine called Nauroz in the Autumn of 1334.

It was written by one Ibrahim Khan, who was then the principal of Government Saadat College, Karatia, Tangail and known for a few plays that he had written. What was the content of that letter? Ibrahim Khan was full of praise and admiration for Nazrul but, at the same time, he expressed some of his grievances against Nazrul and also advised him about his future literary career. Why was Ibrahim Khan unhappy about Nazrul? Arunkumar Basu, in his Nazrul Jiboni, writes, Though Nazrul was immensely popular amongst the Bengali readers, both among the Hindus and the Muslims, a section of Muslim population was for long demanding the complete erasure of Hindu references in his works as also his love for the Hindus. Some even wanted to see Nazrul as the harbinger of Islamic Renaissance and to make him the best propagator for that cause.

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Ibrahim Khan wrote about both these issues. He wrote, Your place should be in Islamic Literature ~ Bengali Muslims are looking up to you to see how you re-establish the life force of Islam through your writings Islam is the most neglected, most tarnished, most criticized and most misrepresented theme in Bengali literature. He urged Nazrul to write Islamic Literature as it would boost up the spirit of the Muslims, eliminate disrespect for Islam from the hearts of the non-Muslims and contribute to strengthen HinduMuslim unity. He also advised Nazrul not to criticize Islam but the superstitions that are not a part of Islam but are strongly believed in by the Muslim masses. What was Nazruls response to this plea of Ibrahim Khan? He wrote: Many Muslim litterateurs might raise questions about the meaning of your term Islamic Literature.

What do you mean by this? Does it mean literature written by the Muslims or literature with an Islamic orientation? True literature must be for members of all religions. But it, of course, must have an outer form. You can write poetry about the truth of Islam but not about Islamic scriptures. Why only Islam ~ I do not believe that literature could be written about the scriptures of any religion. Nazrul did not stop by saying this only. He further maintained, Bengali Literature, if not the daughter of Sanskrit literature, is its foster child. That is why Hindu way of thinking is an integral part of it. If that is removed from Bengali literature, Bengali language will lose half of its force. Nobody can dare to think of removing Greek myths from British literature.

Bengali literature is for both the Hindus and the Muslims. It is unjust for a Muslim to get annoyed if s/he finds the names of Hindu Gods and Goddesses in Bengali Literature. It is equally wrong for the Hindus to frown at those musalmani words found in their literature which are most frequently used in the daily lives of the Muslims. Nazruls letter makes it absolutely clear that he did not believe in the idea of Islamic literature at all. In fact, what he says about the impossibility of creating literature out of scriptures of any religion becomes immensely significant in the context of what today we call the problem of literary nomenclature. In the last thirty years, the creation of literary nomenclature has been heavily mediated by identity politics. We have seen the birth and growth of literary genres such as Black American Literature, Dalit Literature, Transgender Literature and so on and so forth.

These genres, by and large, have received huge academic and intellectual support. But the creation of these categories has been contested by some who argue that literature categorised on the basis of communitarian identity is divisive and detrimental to the health of the state and society. One can cite a ready example of this opposition. The establishment of Dalit Sahitya Academy in West Bengal, which is the first of its kind in the country, created much hue and cry four years back. So many of the eminent savarna Bengali writers opposed this move of the West Bengal government arguing that Bengali literature is ultimately Bengali literature and should not have a sub-category of Dalit literature within it. Had Nazrul been alive today, what would have been his response to the foundation of the first Dalit Sahitya Academy of the country? We can presume that someone who devoted his entire life to the cause of the poor and the oppressed would have definitely given support to this move. His disapproval of Islamic literature should not be taken as suggestive of his dismissal of identity politics and resultant literature. He dismissed Islamic literature mainly for two reasons. He believed that the responsibility of a modern literatteur is not to celebrate scriptures through his/her creation which is primarily art and not devotional propaganda.

In fact, Nazruls devotional songs and poems written both for the Hindus and the Muslims do not have propagandist value ~ they are spiritual and not religious. Nazrul was also fully aware that any move to put literature glorifying Islam under the rubric of Islamic literature, instead of fostering unity between the Hindus and the Muslims (as was suggested by Ibrahim Khan), might create a breach between the two communities and facilitate the British policy of divide and rule. Interestingly, Indian universities that offer courses related to identity politics do not teach courses like Hindu literature, Christian literature or Islamic literature. In doing this, Indian academics seem to have followed the footsteps of Nazrul.

They have encouraged teaching of Dalit literature or womens writings but not of literature categorised on the basis of religious identity. In fact, one of the reasons for the proliferation of literature resulting from identity politics has been the urgent need to protect the rights of the minorities and to create a world based on equity. Due to their pan-global presence, religions like Christianity or Hinduism or Islam are sometimes the religion of the minority and sometimes of the majority.

Any indiscreet move to create literary genres based on religious identity, thus, could be more retrogressive than progressive and might boost up inequity instead of equity, causing serious damage to the minorities. So, by rejecting Ibrahim Khans proposal for producing Islamic literature, Nazrul proved that he was fully aware of the dangers of fanning religious fanaticism through literature. But, when will we underst and that Nazrul was not only a poet but also a thinker, an intellectual who contributed a lot towards the development of secularism both as an attitude and an ideology.

(The writer is Professor, Department of English and Culture Studies, and Director, Centre for Australian Studies, The University of Burdwan, India)


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ELKO  Elko County troops who perished in American military conflicts will be honored at the annual Memorial Day ceremony on May 27. The ceremony starts at 10:30 a.m. at the Elko City Cemetery, said former VFW Cmdr. Gil Hernandez. The community is invited to attend.

It will follow the traditional program presented by the Gaspar J. Salaz VFW Post 2350, which includes music by the Elko High School band and a reading of names of servicemen who died in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Iraq and Afghanistan war.

Members of the VFW Firing Party will fire a volley in a Salute to the Dead followed by a rendition of taps by VFW bugler Bob Neitz.

Volunteers will place flags at gravestones on Saturday. In the past, civic organizations such as 4-H clubs, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and others have placed approximately 1,000 flags throughout the cemetery.
The investigation into the suspected murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar has revealed gory details which suggest he was honey-trapped before being strangulated and brutally dismembered.

The West Bengal CID probing the murder arrested one person for his alleged involvement in the murder, PTI quoted an officer. The suspect is said to be a resident of an area in West Bengal close to the international border with Bangladesh. The police are questioning him as to why he met Anwarul and what they discussed. The police however have not divulged the identity of the detained person.

Arrival on May 12

Anwarul arrived in Kolkata on May 12 and stayed at his friend Gopal Biswass residence in the citys Baranagar area for two days before going missing. He maintained communication with the family until May 14. On May 16, a call was made from the MP's phone to his personal assistant, Abdur Rauf.

Unfortunately, Rauf missed the call, and subsequent attempts to call back were unsuccessful as the phone was switched off by then. Since then, the MP has remained unreachable. Biswas filed a general diary report regarding his disappearance at the Baranagar Police Station on May 18.

However, the police believe the MP could have been "lured" into a New Town flat by a woman and then murdered by contract killers. "Investigation indicated that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap laid by a woman who was also close to the victim's friend. It seems, Anwarul was lured into the New Town flat by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat," he said.

The CID is examining the CCTV footage which showed the MP entering the flat with a man and a woman. The unidentified man and woman were seen exiting the apartment multiple times between May 15 and May 17. Police said the duo was later seen coming out of the flat with a big trolley suitcase.

A primary probe into the incident revealed that the MP's close friend, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime. The 'close friend' owns a flat in Kolkata and is probably in the US at present, said police.

"It was a well-planned murder. A huge amount of money, around Rs 5 crore, was paid by an old friend of the MP to the contract killers to execute the crime. Further investigation is underway," he said.

The state CID, which is investigating the case, has found blood stains inside the New Town flat and also recovered several plastic bags, which they believe were used to dump the body parts.

Chopped up

Police said circumstantial evidence indicates that the MP was first strangulated and then his body was cut into several pieces. "We suspect that after killing Anar, the murderers mutilated the body, segregated the flesh from the bones and mixed those with turmeric powder to delay decomposition.

"Then the body parts were probably put inside plastic bags as well as in the trolley bag and scattered at different locations. We also suspect that some parts were kept in a refrigerator and we have collected samples," the officer said, adding search for the body parts was underway.

Text messages

Anwarul's friends reportedly received messages from his mobile phone to a few of his contacts asking them not to contact him as he was travelling to Delhi. "It seems these messages were sent from the MP's mobile phone to confuse his family members and friends and prevent them from launching a search for him... there is a possibility that these messages were sent after his murder," he said.
The Criminal Investigation Department of West Bengal police arrested a butcher involved in connection with the murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar on Friday. The butcher allegedly helped the accused to dispose Anars body parts at different locations.



According to police, the butcher, Jihar Hawaldar, was arrested from the Bongaon area in North 24 Parganas district and he reportedly admitted during interrogation that he had helped the other accused in chopping the victim's body before disposing the parts in different locations, an officer told PTI.

The investigation into the suspected murder of the Bangladesh MP has revealed gory details which suggest he was honey-trapped before being strangulated and brutally dismembered.

Anwarul arrived in Kolkata on May 12 and stayed at his friend Gopal Biswass residence in the citys Baranagar area for two days before going missing. He maintained communication with the family until May 14. On May 16, a call was made from the MP's phone to his personal assistant, Abdur Rauf. Unfortunately, Rauf missed the call, and subsequent attempts to call back were unsuccessful as the phone was switched off by then. Since then, the MP has remained unreachable.

Bengal Police confirmed the murder the Anar, an Awami League MP from Jhenaidah-4 segment in Bangladesh, on Wednesday, after the victim went missing from Kolkata on May 13.

State CID sleuths on Friday took Jihad Hawaldar to the Bhangar area where the chopped body parts were put in plastic bags and scattered across different places, the officer said.

"The accused is a Bangladeshi citizen and a butcher by profession. He had entered India illegally and was staying in Mumbai hiding his true identity. He was called to Kolkata a couple of months back as a part of the plan to kill Anar. He has admitted that he was an accomplice to the four men who murdered the politician inside the flat and helped them in skinning and chopping the body," the police officer told PTI.

The arrested accused would be produced at a court in Barasat later Friday while a team of CID officers were in the process of searching for the victim's body parts at the Krishnamati village in Bhangar, where the butcher had led them.

An initial probe also found out that the MP's close friend Akhtaruzzaman, a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime, the senior police officer said.

A team of the West Bengal CID visited Bangladesh on Thursday to interrogate the three accused who were arrested by Bangladesh police in connection with the case. The trio were identified as Amanullah Aman, Shilasti Rahman and Faisal Ali.

According to police, the MP's friend has a flat in Kolkata, and is probably in the US at present. Circumstantial evidence indicated that the MP was first strangulated and killed after which his body was chopped into pieces, police claimed.

The search for the missing MP, who reportedly arrived in Kolkata on May 12 to undergo medical treatment, began after Gopal Biswas, a resident of Baranagar in north Kolkata and an acquaintance of the Bangladeshi politician, filed a complaint with the local police on May 18.

-with inputs from agencies.
More than 23 years after the complaint was registered, a Delhi court on Friday convicted Narmada Bachao Andolan leader and activist Medha Patkar in a defamation case lodged against her by V K Saxena, the incumbent lieutenant governor, saying reputation is one of the most valuable assets and significantly impacts one's standing in society.

Holding Patkar's statements as defamatory per se and crafted to incite negative perceptions, Metropolitan Magistrate Raghav Sharma convicted the activist of the offence of criminal defamation under the IPC which entails a maximum punishment of simple imprisonment of up to two years or fine or both.

Saxena had filed the case in November 2000 when he was the president of the National Council of Civil Liberties over a "defamatory" press release issued against him by Patkar.

Reputation is one of the most valuable assets a person can possess, as it affects both personal and professional relationships and can significantly impact an individual's standing in society, the magistrate said in his 55-page judgment.

He said Patkar's statements calling Saxena a coward, not a patriot and alleging his involvement in hawala transactions were not only defamatory per se but also crafted to incite negative perceptions.

Also, the accusation that the complainant was mortgaging the people of Gujarat and their resources to foreign interests was a direct attack on his integrity and public service, the magistrate said.

The court said Saxena's testimony, supported by two court witnesses, showed Patkar falsely associated him with activities contrary to his public stance.

It said Patkar failed to provide any evidence to counter these claims or to show that she did not intend or foresee the harm caused by her statements.

The resulting inquiries and doubts raised among the complainant's acquaintances, as well as the shift in perception highlighted by the witnesses, underscore the significant damage to his (Saxena's) reputation, the court said.

It said it was clear that Patkar's actions were deliberate and malicious, aimed at tarnishing the complainant's good name, and indeed caused substantial harm to his standing and credit in the eyes of the public.

Noting the evidence before it, the court said it has been proved beyond reasonable doubt that Patkar had published the statement knowing that it would harm Saxena's reputation.

The accused, therefore, committed an offence punishable under Section 500 (defamation) of the IPC. She is hereby convicted of the same, it said.

The arguments on the quantum of sentence will be heard on May 30.

In its order, the court considered three questions-whether the press note was proved to have been issued by Patkar; whether the press note made certain imputations against Saxena; and whether the accused by publishing the imputations intended to harm his reputation.

It said there was no reason to believe Patkar's "bald averments and excuses" against having issued the statement and that the gravity and precision of the accusations highlighted that her action was deliberate and that her primary objective was to undermine Saxena's credibility and integrity in public.

Patkar and Saxena have been locked in a legal tussle since 2000 after she filed a suit against him for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA).

Saxena had also filed two cases against her for making derogatory remarks against him on a TV channel and issuing a defamatory press statement.
Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, AAP leader and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said that the PM has accepted that the liquor policy case is wrong and has no evidence in the case.

While addressing a press conference, Kejriwal said the BJP has been screaming that there has been a scam but not even a penny was recovered.

"They have been screaming for two years that there is a liquor scam claiming it was to the tune of Rs 100 crore, but not even a penny has been recovered," said Kejriwal.

Kejriwal, who was arrested in the Delhi excise policy case is out on interim bail till June 1.

In an interview, PM Modi called the Delhi CM an "experienced thief" and said, "A former government official who knows how ED, CBI will progress in a case can cover up a lot." Replying to Modis remark, Kejriwal said that Modi accepted that there was no evidence in the case.

"Yesterday, the PM was asked in an interview that Kejriwal was saying that no evidence has been found in the case. The PM said no money was found because Kejriwal is an experienced thief. He accepted that no recovery was made," he added.

"To hide it, he said Kejriwal is an 'anubhavi chor'. This is just an excuse to prove the wrong arrests right. When you have accepted that excise scam is wrong, please release those who have been arrested," said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener.
The Pune police investigating the car crash case, wherein a minor allegedly killed two bike-borne IT employees in the city, have examined the Porsche car involved in the accident. A forensic examination of the car, which is in the possession of the Yerawada police station, was carried out on Thursday.

"We have already carried out the forensic examination of the spot and now the car has also been examined. The technical aspects such as GPS, the cameras around the car were examined," PTI quoted a senior police officer, who is currently monitoring the investigation.

The police have also seized a phone said to be belonging to the minor's father, a builder named Vishal Agarwal, who is currently in police custody.

The police also summoned the grandfather of the accused teen for interrogation. The grandfather was reportedly questioned together with Agarwal. "The grandfather, one of the friends of the teenager who was with him in the car when the accident took place, and the driver were questioned today in connection with the car accident," a crime branch official confirmed.

"Since the luxury car is in the name of the realty firm owned by the Agarwals, the grandfather of the minor, who is one of the owners of the firm, was questioned in regards to the ownership of the car," he said.

Meanwhile, a minor altercation broke out between the reporters who gathered in front of the police commissionerate and the grandfather's aide after reporters tried to ask questions to the latter.

Following this, the man accompanying him heckled and obstructed the reporters leading to a heated exchange of words before the police intervened. A team of police personnel whisked away the man inside a room to ensure that the situation did not escalate further.

Teen's friend, former driver questioned

The police also questioned the teen's friend and the former's driver who were accompanying him in the car when the accident occurred in the Kalyani Nagar area. The friend was questioned to verify and corroborate the sequence of events that took place in the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.

The police told the court while seeking Agarwal's custody that the teen a

wanted to drive the car, following which the driver called his employer (the minor's father) and told him about his son's demand. Agarwal allowed the driver to let his son drive the car. The officer said that the driver may be presented in court as a witness in the case.

Meanwhile, the cops are collecting CCTV footage of the entire route through which the car traversed - from residence to Cosie restaurant, then to Blak Club and from there to the accident spot, to see who was driving the car.

The teen is currently in the observation home by the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) on Wednesday.
The Supreme Court on Friday refused to direct the Election Commission of India to upload voter turnout data of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls and listed the matter for hearing on a later date, post the Court's vacation.



Hearing the plea filed by Association for Democratic Reforms, a vacation bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma said, Prima facie we are not inclined to grant any relief at this stage. The bench observed that granting the interim relief would mount to granting final relief on a similar plea filed in 2019. The bench said it cannot issue any such directions at the moment as five phases of polling have concluded and two remain. The bench said they are listing the applications after the vacation before the appropriate bench, Live Law reported.

The ADR has filed an interim application in its 2019 PIL seeking directions to the poll panel that "scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part-I (Account of Votes Recorded)" of all polling stations be uploaded immediately after the polls.

The bench said it would be difficult for the poll panel to mobilise manpower for uploading the voter turnout data on its website.

On May 17, the top court had sought within a week a response from the Election Commission on the NGO's plea seeking a direction to upload polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website within 48 hours of the conclusion of polling for each phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

-with inputs from agencies.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's close aide Bibhav Kumar was sent to four-day judicial custody by the Delhi court on Friday. Kumar was arrested in connection with the alleged assault on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal.

Metropolitan Magistrate Gaurav Goyal allowed the prosecution's plea seeking Kumar's judicial custody for four days after police interrogation. Soon after the court order, Bibhav Kumar has moved a bail application. The court has asked Delhi police to file a reply and has listed the hearing on Monday.

It was alleged that Kumar had assaulted Maliwal at the CM's official residence on May 13.

Kumar's counsels have moved an application seeking to procure and preserve the CCTV footage and the DVRs.

"These CCTVs prove my case, they have searched various times and have taken CCTV footage, how much footage they have we dont know. We are seeking for the footage to be preserved, Kumar's counsel's argument was quoted by the Hindustan Times.

However, the prosecution argued that the application at this stage is not applicable as the matter is under investigation. "We moved an application under Section 165 to provide the list of search and seized items to the magistrate," said defence counsel advocate Rajiv Mohan. There is a provision in Section 165 to provide the list of all the items seized during the search, he added.

The prosecution also argued that the defence has not specified which CCTV footage they require as a copy of the same has also been given to the occupier.

"Initially we had asked for DVR, but they gave us a blank pen drive. Now they have given us an NVR which has been given to the expert for examination, said the additional public prosecutor.

The Delhi Police had arrested Kumar on May 18.

After Maliwal's complaint, Kumar had accused the Rajya Sabha MP of gaining "unauthorised entry" into the CM's residence and started "verbally abusing" him.

In Maliwal's complaint, Kumar "slapped" her "at least seven to eight times" and "brutally dragged" her while "kicking" her in her "chest, stomach and pelvis area".
Students at all-girls' schools do slightly better in their exams than girls at co-educational schools, according to new research from the United Kingdom.

This goes against previous studies that suggest it does not matter if students attend single-sex or co-ed schools.

What is the study?

This research was done by FFT Education Datalab. This is an independent research team specialising in education policy and statistics.

Using the United Kingdom's National Pupil Database, the study looked at more than 580,000 students who attended more than 3,200 schools. All schools were government-funded (so were public schools in Australian termimology) and were either single sex or co-ed.

Students exam results were examined at the end of Year 11 and the study controlled for differences in schools and pupil characteristics, such as socioeconomic disadvantage or high levels of students who learned English as a second language.

What did the research find?

The research found girls who went to all-girls' schools recorded a small improvement in their exam results compared to their peers in co-educational schools.

This is after adjusting their results to account for factors such as disadvantage.

The gap is small around one month's progress for each of the students. But it is noticeable.

Yet for boys' schools, there wasn't any difference in results between single sex and co-ed schools.

Why is this important?

While the UK study was not peer-reviewed, this finding is important because it contradicts other recent large-scale research, which has found no statistically significant academic advantage to single-sex schooling.

For example, a 2022 analysis of Irish students found no significant performance gaps between co-educational and single-sex schools.

A 2014 meta-analysis (an overview of many studies) across 21 countries also found no high-quality evidence of benefits to single-sex schooling.

What about Australia?

This new research plays into the renewed debate over single sex schooling in Australia in recent months.

This follows some prestigious all boys' schools announcing moves to co-education (and some former students crying about the change). It also follows multiple examples of sexism and misogyny by male students at both all-boys and co-ed schools.

There is also a growing body of Australian research examining toxic behaviour of boys towards their female teachers and peers.

So the UK research could further entrench a perception girls are better off in single-sex schools.

This perception has a long history. Many girls schools were set up in the 1800s by pioneering headmistresses such as English educator Frances Buss, who believed in girls' equal rights to education and girls' schools were the best places to provide this.

Girls' schools today retain an image of feminist progressivism, promoting the idea that girls can achieve anything.

The perception is supported by some research evidence that girls in single-sex schools are more likely to feel confident in traditionally male-dominated subjects such as STEM.

What needs to be done?

This UK study raises many questions. Are girls indeed better off on their own? Are there aspects of single-sex education that could be applied in co-ed environments? How do we ensure that all schools are schools of choice for girls, including coeducational schools?

We can investigate these questions further by doing research with families to better understand their perceptions and experiences of single-sex schools today. We can also do more research into the impact of programs such as Respectful Relationships, which have been introduced to build positive gender cultures in schools.

(The Conversation: By Claire Charles, Deakin University and Lucinda McKnight, Deakin University)
China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) carried out mock missile drills on Friday, the second day of its two-day Taiwan military exercise which saw its troops moving mobile artillery and missile systems into position.

The drills began on Thursday when the PLA sent warships and fighter jets around the island, which China considers its breakaway province. This came just three days after Taiwan swore in its new president Lai Ching-te. China's Communist regime calls Lai a "dangerous separatist", claiming the drills were "a strong punishment for separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces." In his inauguration speech, Lai had urged Beijing to stop its threats and said the two sides of the strait were "not subordinate to each other".

On Friday, the PLA conducted mock missile strikes and dispatched bombers carrying live missiles, state television CCTV said, adding that the bombers set up several attack formations in waters east of Taiwan in coordination with naval vessels.

The drills, dubbed "Joint Sword - 2024, were designed to "test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks and occupy key areas," the PLA said.

A senior Taiwanese official told Reuters that the drills included the mock bombing of foreign vessels. He added that several Chinese bombers conducted mock attacks on foreign vessels near the eastern end of the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines.

China also deployed several coast guard boats to conduct "harassment" drills off Taiwan's east coast, including mock inspections of civilian ships.

Taiwans Defense Ministry condemned Chinas military exercises, calling them "irrational provocations". The Taiwanese military also scrambled its sea, air and ground forces in response to the drills.

The ministry added that it detected 49 Chinese aircraft, including 35 that crossed the Median Line, between Thursday morning and Friday morning. This is besides a total of 19 Chinese warships and seven Coast Guard vessels that were detected near the Taiwan Strait.

The island has also put on alert marine and Coast Guard vessels, air and ground-based missile units, particularly around the Taiwan-controlled island chains of Kinmen and Matsu. Both islets are located just off the China coast and are far from Taiwan's main island, roughly 160 kilometres (100 miles) across the Taiwan Strait.

A statement by the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet said it was paying attention to "all of the activities" in the Indo-Pacific. "The U.S. Navy 7th Fleet remains committed to upholding the rules-based international order that underpins regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region," a public relations officer at the 7th Fleet told Reuters.

Animated video

The Chinese theatre command showed an animated video on Friday on its WeChat social media account of missiles being launched at Taiwan from the ground, air and sea. The missiles were then seen hitting the cities of Taipei, Kaohsiung and Hualien. "Sacred weapons to kill independence," read words in red, written in the traditional Chinese characters Taiwan uses, at the end of the animation.
Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, attends and makes a keynote speech at the Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength 2024 in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The forum was held Thursday in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

SHENZHEN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Enhancing cultural confidence is necessary to make greater strides in building China's cultural strength, according to participants of the Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength 2024.

The forum was held Thursday in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, made a keynote speech at the event.

Huang Kunming, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee, also addressed the forum.

The forum was hosted by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee. Culture and publicity officials at all levels attended the forum, as did scholars from related think tanks.

Participants discussed the necessity of promoting innovation in the cultural sector, enhancing the preservation and passing on of cultural heritage, deepening cultural exchanges and mutual learning, and acting upon the Global Civilization Initiative.

Huang Kunming, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee, attends and addresses the Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength 2024 in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The forum was held Thursday in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Editor: WXL
The bodies of three more hostages killed by Hamas during the October 7 attack were recovered by Israeli troops overnight from Gaza. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday said that the bodies were recovered from the northern Gaza Strip.

The bodies were identified as Orion Hernandez Radoux (30), Hanan Yablonka (42), and Michel Nisenbaum (59). The deceased were kidnapped from the Mefalsim area. According to the Times of Israel, they were killed on October 7.

Hernandez Radoux and Yablonka were at the Supernova music festival when they were kidnapped, it said.

IDF said the bodies of the three hostages were recovered in a joint operation carried out by the military and Shin Bet.

Around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more, said IDF. As many as 250 hostages were kidnapped and held captive by Hamas. Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, as part of the truce deal, around half of the hostages were freed in return for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to eliminate Hamas and bring all the hostages back. However, he faces immense pressure to resign amid hostage families protests across the nation. The Hostages Families Forum on Thursday released a three-minute video of woman IDF soldiers captured by Hamas. The video shows them bruised and bloodied. The video was released by the families to pressure the government to take serious measures to bring back the hostages.

ICJ to rule on Israel to halt its Rafah offensive

The World Court is set to rule on Friday South Africa's request to order Israel to halt its Rafah offensive and withdraw from Gaza. The country had asked the court to impose emergency measures to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people.

The rulings by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) are binding and final, but it has not been implemented by Israel so far.

Israel has repeatedly dismissed the accusations of genocide as baseless. It had justified the attack as self-defence and targeted Hamas militants.

Israeli military spokesperson said the army is operating "carefully and precisely" in Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought refuge from Israeli bombing and operations.

Several European countries on Wednesday said they would recognise a Palestinian state and the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced on Monday that he had filed an application for arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as leaders of Hamas. ICC prosecutes for alleged war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.
With Pope Francis recognising a second miracle attributed to him, 16-year-old Italian teenager Carlo Acutis will become the first millennial saint. The 16-year-old boy used his computer skills to spread the Catholic faith before he died of leukaemia in 2006, aged 15.

Acutis, informally known as "God's influencer", was born in London but grew up in Milan where he took care of his parish website and later of a Vatican-based academy. The teenager was beatified in 2020 after one miracle was attributed to him, and the attribution of a second miracle means he can now be elevated to sainthood, possibly during the Catholic Church's 2025 Jubilee Year.

Acutis, who reportedly showed signs of intense religious devotion during childhood, taught himself to code when he was still in elementary school. He then used this knowledge to build websites for Catholic organisations spreading the word of God.

Acutis was also named as a patron of last years World Youth Day in Lisbon, owing to the key role he played in evangelisation through the internet.

Pope Francis beatified Acutis in 2020 after he had performed his first miracle. A seven-year-old boy from Brazil who had been suffering from pancreatic malfunction had been cured of his ailment after coming in contact with Acutis' shirt. This was later verified by Pope Francis who confirmed the event as a miracle.

The second miracle happened when a woman from Costa Rica with a daughter, who was fighting for her life after a bicycle accident, prayed at Carlos tomb at the Sanctuary of the Renunciation. The daughter, Valeria, who had been struggling for her life, started to show improvements soon after her mother began praying to Acutis.

In a meeting held at the Vatican on Thursday with the head of the Vaticans saint-making department, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, the Pope verified the second miracle hence paving the way towards Acutis attaining sainthood and becoming the 'first millennial saint'.
The top United Nations court ordered Israel on Friday to immediately halt its military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. While Israel is unlikely to comply with any such order, it will ratchet up the pressure on the increasingly isolated country.



Criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing even from its closest ally, the United States, which warned against an invasion of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought shelter from fighting elsewhere. And this week alone, three European countries announced they would recognise a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another UN court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with Hamas officials.



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under heavy pressure at home to end the war, which was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people, most civilians, and taking some 250 captive. Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing that time is running out.



While the ruling by the International Court of Justice is a blow to Israel's international standing, the court does not have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.



Israel signalled it, too, would brush off an ICJ order to stop its operations. No power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, Avi Hyman, the government spokesperson, said in a press briefing Thursday.



The court's president, Nawaf Salam, read out the ruling, as a small group of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside.



Fears expressed earlier with respect to the developments in Rafah have materialised and that the humanitarian situation is now to be characterised as disastrous, the ruling said.



The court did not call for a full cease-fire throughout Gaza as South Africa had requested at hearings last week.



The cease-fire request is part of a case filed late last year by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations. The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.



At public hearings last week at the International Court of Justice, South Africa's ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, urged the panel of 15 international judges to order Israel to totally and unconditionally withdraw from the Gaza Strip.



The court has already found that Israel's military operations pose a real and imminent risk to the Palestinian people in Gaza.



Israel's offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. The operation has obliterated entire neighbourhoods, sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes, and pushed parts of the territory into famine.



This may well be the last chance for the court to act, Irish lawyer Blinne N Ghrlaigh, who is part of South Africa's legal team, told judges last week.



Israel rejects the claims by South Africa, a nation with historic ties to the Palestinian people.



Israel takes extraordinary measures in order to minimise the harm to civilians in Gaza, Tamar Kaplan-Tourgeman, a member of Israel's legal team, told the court last week.



In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it can to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive. In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.



The ICJ rules in disputes between nations. A few kilometres (miles) away, the International Criminal Court files charges against individuals it considers most responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.



On Monday, its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, said he has asked ICC judges to approve arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and three top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip and Israel.



Israel is not an ICC member, so even if the arrest warrants are issued, Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution. But the threat of arrest could make it difficult for the Israeli leaders to travel abroad.
Two people were shot dead and one person got seriously injured when gunfire erupted in Bronx's University Heights neighbourhood on Friday.

According to the police officials, a 36-year-old male and 44-year-old female were shot dead. Both were shot in the chest at 2290 Davidson Ave around 12:15 am, added the officials.

However, the third victim, a 40-year-old, was shot in the right arm.

The victims were rushed to St. Barnabas Hospital in Belmont soon after the incident.

Two men dressed in all black were reportedly spotted fleeing the scene on a red moped around the time of the shooting and are considered to be suspects, reported the New York Post.

(More details awaited)
If it werent for Manoj Bajpayee, Bhaiyya Ji would have remained a loud, forgettable B-grade revenge saga with Hindi-heartland flavour and fervour.

Directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, the 135-minute action-packed film has the usual characters, plot twists and tropes of the revenge genre. Though set in the times of smartphones and Scorpios, the film has a blast-from-the-past feel to it, specifically of Bollywood films of the 80s when rage was expressed through roars at vicious, vile villains who relished their villainy.

Revenge films are a celebration of righteous retribution and are given to excesses. There is no subversion or reinvention of the revenge genre here. Bhaiyya Ji is simply a high-decibel reiteration of the rampage that all revenge films are about. It is very violent (the film has got UA certification), has a predictable, weak story, some whistle-worthy dialogue, a few inspired flourishes and lots of idiotic, silly things. Yet Bhaiyya Ji is worth a watch because of Manoj Bajpayees intense, compelling performance.

As the beedi-smoking, revenge-seeking bade bhaiyya from Bihar, Bajpayee carries the seething rage of a man who has been wronged in every pore of his body, not just in emotional scenes, but also as he lands deadly punches and slices bodies with style and speed.

I just wish that Suvinder Vicky, who plays the villain here and was riveting to watch in the Netflix series Kohrra, had brought at least his B-game to Bhaiyya Ji, if not his A-game.

Bhaiyya Jis setup is simple. In a small town in Bihar, Ram Charan aka Bhaiyya ji (Manoj Bajpayee) is getting married to Mithali (Zoya Hussain), a state-level shooter. His house is full of guests and his Choti Ma (step-mother, played by Bhagirathi Bai Kadam) is busy organising this and that. Bhaiyya ji is happy, but he is also worried about his younger brother, Vedant (Akash Makhija), who is about to set off from Delhi. Bhaiyya Ji keeps calling Vedant, and through their conversations we figure that they have a strong, adorable bond.

Meanwhile, somewhere in Delhi lives a very rich and a very bad man -- Chandrabhan Singh (Suvinder Vicky). He wears fancy Nehru jackets embellished with brooches and chains, an extravagant pompadour and takes pleasure in butchering all those who dare to threaten his delinquent son, Abhimanyu (Jatin Goswami).

Since we are well-versed in the arts and crafts of revenge thrillers, we know that Bhaiyya Jis happy family and Chandrabhans heinous one are going to clash. We also know that Mithalis shooting skills will come in handy at some point.

So obviously, something bad happens.

Bhaiyya ji is called to Delhi by a cop, Magan (Vipin Sharma), who has some news about Vedant. He goes to Delhi and returns home with tears in his eyes, clutching an earthen pot and some basic facts about what happened to Vedant.

But we, having witnessed Chandrabhan and Abhimanyu's blood-curdling brutality, know exactly what happened to Vedant. So when Choti Ma, devastated and bereaved, insists on retribution, we are all for it. As is a crow who keeps visiting Bhaiyya ji's house and apparently symbolises Vedants bhatakti aatma (a sad soul knocking about aimlessly).

But before Bhaiyya ji can proceed to exact revenge, there needs to be an official waiver of a promise he once made to Choti Ma about being non-violent.

The film tries to explain this backstory to us, but is totally incoherent. It feels as if a dog ate those two pertinent pages from the films script and no one noticed it.

So what we get is gibberish that involves a medallion with a lion's face, a statue at a railway station and a big reveal -- all the citys tailors, mechanics and anda-bread sellers are part of Bhaiyya jis secret militia group.

To make up for the missing backstory, the film decides that one Pandit Ji -- who is always hanging around Chandrabhan for some mysterious reason -- must keep muttering how scary, violence-prone and single-minded Bhaiyya ji is.

As Bhaiyya ji sets out for Chandrabhans massive bungalow, all the men in his city follow him, brandishing sticks, guns and sharp metal items. This entourage includes a group of geriatric, morning-walk uncles.

Following a confrontation between Bhaiyya ji and Chandrabhan, the rest of the film plays out as a series of killing sprees in various locations  on a bridge, in a old haveli, at a railway station, around a fire pit  and involves a lot of bone-cracking, slashing, shooting and thrashing by Bhaiyya jis weapon of choice, a long-handled spade. All the action sequences are accompanied by deafening, rousing music.

One of the great joys of B-grade Bollywood films is that they deliver what they promise. Despite Bhaiyya Ji's scatty script, director Karki, who made the Manoj Bajpayee-starrer courtroom drama Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai last year, delivers on this count. Bhaiyya Ji begins with chilling violence and the brutal murder of an innocent man, and ends on a satisfying, cathartic note.

The films plot has the expected beats of revenge films, but in between it has some duds and delights. The duds are too many to list, but one special delight is Vipin Sharmas corrupt but cowardly cop.

When the film begins, Zoya Hussain, cast as the coy bride-to-be, is totally blank and looks out of place. But later in the film, when she gets to shoot and save her prospective hubby, a la Mr & Mrs Smith, she raises the films thrill quotient.

Suvinder Vicky is an excellent actor with a commanding screen presence. Here he gets a dapper look and a meaty role, but remains expressionless and his villainy has no bite.

Bhaiyya Ji is the sort of action film usually reserved for Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff. Manoj Bajpayee is a refreshing change from them because he doesnt just kick hard, but can also act. The action sequences in Bhaiyya Ji are not just choreographed and executed with style, but Bajpayee keeps amping up his fury and turns every broken bone and slit throat into gratifying moments of vengeance.

If you have strong ear drums and the stomach for relentless violence, watch Bhaiyya Ji for Manoj Bajpayee who does all the heavy lifting here and elevates a B-grade film singlehandedly.

Bhaiyya Ji

Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Suvinder Vicky, Vipin Sharma, Jatin Goswami, Zoya Hussain, Akash Makhija, Bhagirathi Bai Kadam

Direction: Apoorv Singh Karki

Rating: **1/2
Kolkata, May 24 (PTI) Kidney care provider Nephro Care India Ltd on Friday said it aims at raising Rs 35-40 crore through an initial public offering (IPO), the majority of which will be utilised to complete its multi-speciality hospital near Kolkata.

The IPO will comprise a fresh issuance of 45.84 lakh equity shares with a face value of Rs 10 each, said Founder and MD of Nephro Care India, Dr Pratim Sengupta.

"The IPO is scheduled next month on the NSE Emerge platform, and is subject to approvals from the bourse," Sengupta said.

The promoter stake will stand at 60-65 per cent after dilution post the IPO, he said.

The 100-bed multi-speciality hospital at Madhyamgram near the metropolis will be inaugurated on July 1 on National Doctors Day, Sengupta told PTI here.

The Kolkata-based companys upcoming medical facility is being set up at a cost of Rs 36 crore, including internal funding of around Rs 10 crore, he said.

Nephro Care India, founded in 2014, also plans to open three more kidney care units in eastern India in addition to its existing three such facilities in West Bengal.

The company posted a revenue of Rs 19.90 crore and net profit of Rs 3.4 crore during the first nine months of the 2023-24 fiscal, compared with a topline of Rs 17.09 crore and bottomline of Rs 1.94 crore in the corresponding period a year ago.
New Delhi, May 24 (PTI) Wheat procurement for the 2024-25 marketing year has surpassed last year's total of 262.02 lakh tonnes, boosted by strong contributions from the northern states of Punjab and Haryana, the government said on Friday.

In a statement, the government said 262.48 lakh tonnes of rabi (winter)-sown grain has already been purchased for the central pool, benefiting 22.31 lakh farmers, with a minimum support price outflow of Rs 59,715 crore.

The major procuring states were Punjab with 124.26 lakh tonnes, Haryana with 71.49 lakh tonnes, Madhya Pradesh with 47.78 lakh tonnes, Rajasthan with 9.66 lakh tonnes and Uttar Pradesh with 9.07 lakh tonnes.

Wheat procurement normally runs from April to March, but the Centre this year allowed states to make purchases based on crop arrivals. In most states, the procurement began in early March.

The government has set a wheat procurement target of 300-320 million tonnes for the 2024-25 marketing year.

Rice procurement is also progressing smoothly, with 728.42 lakh tonnes of paddy, equivalent to 489.15 lakh tonnes of rice, procured directly from 98.26 lakh farmers at a minimum support price outflow of around Rs 1,60,472 crore.

The combined stock of wheat and rice currently exceeds 600 lakh tonnes in the central pool, the government said, putting the country in a comfortable position to meet its foodgrain requirements under the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana and other welfare schemes, as well as for market interventions.
Tel Aviv (Israel), May 24 (AP) The bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7 were recovered overnight from Gaza, Israel's army said on Friday.

The bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez were found and their families have been notified. The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

The announcement comes less than a week after the army said it found the bodies of three other Israeli hostages killed on October 7.

Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and abducted around 250 others in the October 7 attack. Around half of those hostages have since been freed, most in swaps for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November.

Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more. (AP) PY

PY
Lilanda (Zambia), May 24 (AP) Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera.

In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021.

Malawi and Zambia have had their worst outbreaks on record. Zimbabwe has had multiple waves. Mozambique, Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia also have been badly affected.

All have experienced floods or drought  in some cases, both  and health authorities, scientists and aid agencies say the unprecedented surge of the water-borne bacterial infection in Africa is the newest example of how extreme weather is playing a role in driving disease outbreaks.

The outbreaks are getting much larger because the extreme climate events are getting much more common," said Tulio de Oliveira, a South Africa-based scientist who studies diseases in the developing world.

De Oliveira, who led a team that identified new coronavirus variants during the COVID-19 pandemic, said southern Africa's latest outbreaks can be traced to the cyclones and floods that hit Malawi in late 2021 and early 2022, carrying the cholera bacteria to areas it doesn't normally reach.

Zimbabwe and Zambia have seen cases rise as they wrestle with severe droughts and people rely on less safe sources of water in their desperation like boreholes, shallow wells and rivers, which can all be contaminated. Days after the deadly flooding in Kenya and other parts of East Africa this month, cholera cases appeared.

The World Health Organisation calls cholera a disease of poverty, as it thrives where there is poor sanitation and a lack of clean water. Africa has had eight times as many deaths this year as the Middle East, the second-most affected region.

Historically vulnerable, Africa is even more at risk as it faces the worst impacts of climate change as well as the effect of the El Nino weather phenomenon, health experts say.

In what's become a perfect storm, there's also a global shortage of cholera vaccines, which are needed only in poorer countries.

It doesn't affect countries with resources, said Dr Daniela Garone, the international medical coordinator for Doctors Without Borders, also known by its French acronym MSF. So, it doesn't bring the resources.

Billions of dollars have been invested into other diseases that predominantly affect the world's most vulnerable, like polio and tuberculosis, largely because those diseases are highly contagious and could cause outbreaks even in rich countries. But that's not the case with cholera, where epidemics remain contained.

WHO said this month there is a critical shortage of oral cholera vaccines in the global stockpile. Since the start of 2023, 15 countries  the desperate few  have requested a total of 82 million doses to deal with deadly outbreaks while only 46 million doses were available.

There are just 3.2 million doses left, below the target of having at least 5 million in reserve. While there are currently cholera epidemics in the Middle East, the Americas and Southeast Asia, Africa is by far the worst-affected region.

Vaccines alliance GAVI and UNICEF said last month that the approval of a new cholera vaccine would boost stocks. But the result of the shortage has already been measured in deaths.

Lilanda, a township on the edge of the Zambian capital of Lusaka, is a typical cholera hot spot. Stagnant pools of water dot the dirt roads. Clean water is like gold dust. Here, over two awful days in January, Mildred Banda saw her 1-year-old son die from cholera and rushed to save the life of her teenage daughter.

Cholera shouldn't be killing anyone. The disease is easily treated and easily prevented  and the vaccines are relatively simple to produce.

That didn't help Banda's son, Ndanji.

When he fell sick with diarrhea, he was treated with an oral rehydration solution at a clinic and released. He slipped back into dehydration that night at home. Banda feels terrible guilt.

I should have noticed earlier that my son was not feeling well, she said, sitting in her tiny concrete house. I should have acted faster and taken him back to the clinic. I should have taken him back to save his life.

Because of the vaccine shortage, Zambia couldn't undertake a preventative vaccination campaign after neighbouring Malawi's outbreak. That should have been a warning call, said de Oliveira. Zambia only made an emergency request when its cases started mounting.

The doses that might have saved Ndanji started arriving in mid-January. He died on Jan 6.

In Zimbabwe, a drought worsened by El Nino has seen cholera take hold in distant rural areas as well as its traditional hot spots of crowded urban neighbourhoods.

Abi Kebra Belaye, MSF representative for Zimbabwe, said the southern African nation normally has around 17 hard-hit areas, mostly urban. This year, cholera spread to 62 districts as the struggle to find water heightened the risk.

This part of Africa is paying the highest price of climate change, Kebra Belaye said.

Augustine Chonyera, who hails from a cholera-prone part of the capital, Harare, was shocked when he recently visited the sparsely populated rural district of Buhera.

He said he heard grim tales of the impact of the disease: a family losing five members, a husband and wife dying within hours of each other and local businesses using delivery trucks to take the sick to a clinic several kilometres (miles) away.

It seems now the people in rural areas are in more danger than us. I still wonder how it happened, Chonyera said.

He said he returned home as soon as he could  after giving a large bottle of treated water he had brought with him to an elderly woman. (AP) SCY

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Singapore, May 24 (PTI) Lee Hsien Yang, the brother of former Singapore prime minister Lee Hsien Loong, has been ordered by the High Court to pay SGD 200,000 (USD 147,880) each to Indian-origin ministers K Shanmugam and Vivian Balakrishnan for defaming them over their rental of state properties in an affluent suburb here.

In a judgment released on Friday, Justice Goh Yihan explained his reasons for awarding the damages to the two ministers, who had filed separate defamation claims against Lee, the youngest son of the city states founder Prime Minister, the Late Lee Kuan Yew.

The lawsuits were initiated over comments Lee Hsien Yang made on his Facebook page on July 23 last year, suggesting that the ministers had acted corruptly by having the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) give them preferential treatment in the rental of the Ridout Road properties.

Lee, who is not in Singapore, also charged that "trust in the Peoples Action Party (PAP) PAP has been shattered", pointing to then-PM Lee Hsien Loong's "failure of leadership".

The Peoples Action Party (PAP), founded by the late Lee Kuan Yew, has ruled Singapore ever since independence.

The Facebook comments came after the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), in its findings released a month before the post, said there had been no wrongdoing or preferential treatment given to the two ministers.

Lee did not appear in court to defend himself against the allegations.

Shanmugam, who is the Law and Home Affairs Minister, and Foreign Affairs Minister Balakrishnan were represented by Senior Counsel Davinder Singh and took the stand briefly in a hearing earlier this month.

Justice Goh said he was satisfied that Lee had "consciously chosen not to respond" to the claims.

Lee cannot contest his liability for defamation as he did not turn up or find a lawyer to represent him on the assessment of damages, Justice Goh said, adding that he had to decide the case based on the claimants in the absence of any countervailing material the former PM's younger brother could have produced.

"They are public leaders and persons of the highest integrity who undoubtedly have a high standing. Accordingly, this is a factor that points towards the award of higher damages," Channel News Asia quoted Justice Goh as saying.

Lee is also "well-known in Singapore" with over 89,000 followers on Facebook, a factor that points towards awarding higher damages, the judge said, agreeing with the ministers' arguments.

Justice Goh also found that Lee had "acted with malice" in posting the offending words, justifying not only higher damages but aggravated damages.

"Based on the evidence before me, I find that the defendant knew the offending words were false, that he published them recklessly, and/or without considering or caring whether they are true or not," said Justice Goh.

He said the evidence shows that Lee's post came after CPIB's investigation already found no preferential treatment given to the ministers over the Ridout Road properties.

"The CPIB's investigation also established that there was no evidence that the claimants had abused their position for personal gain. This is because trees were felled with the National Parks Board's approval, and the works that the SLA had done to 26 and 31 Ridout Road as landlord were to make them safe and habitable in accordance with conservation guidelines," said Justice Goh.

"Thus, the works done by the SLA prior to handover were consistent with its general practices and comparable to that done for similar properties."

In determining the appropriate amount of damages, Justice Goh referred to past cases of defamation involving Cabinet or prime ministers.

The general and aggravated damages awarded to a prime minister have ranged from "SGD230,000 to SGD260,000 in the 1980s to sums in excess of SGD300,000 in the last 20 years", the judge noted.

On top of the damages, he ordered Lee to pay costs of SGD 51,000 to each minister, according to the Channel report.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

JINAN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday stressed the need to deepen reform further across the board with efforts centering on advancing Chinese modernization.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks while chairing a symposium in Jinan, Shandong Province, attended by representatives from businesses and academia.

"Reform is the driving force for development," Xi said, noting that to deepen reform further on all fronts, efforts should be focused on the overarching goals of improving and developing the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, and modernizing China's governance system and capacity.

He added that China should take resolute steps to remove the ideological and institutional barriers hindering the advancement of Chinese modernization, and double down on its efforts to resolve deep-seated institutional challenges and structural issues.

Xi's trip to Shandong is the first local inspection he has made since the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau held a meeting on April 30.

It was decided at the meeting that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be held in Beijing in July, and that the session will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization.

Nine representatives including entrepreneurs from state-owned, private and foreign-funded enterprises spoke at the symposium to put forward opinions and suggestions on deepening reform across the board, covering such issues as developing venture capital investment, upgrades of traditional industries, improving the corporate governance of private enterprises and optimizing the business environment for foreign enterprises.

It is the CPC's consistent approach and fine tradition to conduct in-depth research and extensively solicit opinions from various parties before making major decisions and formulating important documents, Xi said, adding that relevant departments should carefully study and absorb opinions and suggestions for further deepening reform in an all-round way that were brought up during the symposium.

China should adhere to and develop its basic economic system and work to build a high-level socialist market economy system, Xi said.

Economic system reform should start from meeting realistic needs and tackling the most urgent matters, and should advance theoretical and institutional innovation in the process of solving practical problems, he added.

"The Chinese people's aspiration for a better life is the goal we have been striving for, and the ultimate purpose of advancing reform and promoting development is to improve the livelihood of the people," Xi said.

He emphasized the need to identify the key areas of reform and achieve breakthroughs based on the pressing concerns and aspirations of the general public, including employment, income growth, education, healthcare, housing, government services, childcare, elderly care, personal safety, and property security.

Xi stressed that no matter how and where reform goes, certain "fundmental things" must not be compromised, including upholding the overall leadership of the Party, adhering to Marxism, sticking to the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and upholding the people's democratic dictatorship.

"At the same time, we must dare to innovate and do a good job in reforming what should be and could be reformed, and persist in our efforts once we find the right path," Xi said.

Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, who are also members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the symposium.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, communicates with representatives from businesses and academia attending a symposium in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. Xi chaired the symposium and delivered an important speech here on Thursday. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

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Manila, May 24 (AP) The Philippines will continue to build security alliances and stage joint combat drills in disputed waters to defend its territorial interests, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said Friday, dismissing China's criticisms of such moves as paranoia.

Teodoro bluntly criticised Beijing's increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea, without citing China by name, in a speech before the military's top brass at a ceremony marking the anniversary of the Philippine navy's founding in Manila. The Philippines, he said, would not tolerate aggression and provocative moves.

Since territorial hostilities with China surged last year in the South China Sea, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's administration has taken steps to forge new security alliances with a number of Asian and Western countries and allowed a US military presence in more Philippine bases under a 2014 defence pact.

In April and May, the Philippine military staged annual live-fire combat exercises with US forces in and near the disputed waters.

China has said such actions by the US and its allies, including the Philippines, were provocative, aimed to contain Beijing and were endangering regional security.

Terming these cooperative activities with like-minded nations as a containment or a provocation is disinformation and evidence of paranoia of a closed political system, Teodoro said in a clear reference to China. The ultimate intent is to get what they want by the threat or the use of force. This we cannot allow to continue.

The Philippines is the US's oldest treaty ally in Asia. Washington has warned that it is obligated to help defend the Philippines if its forces, aircraft and ships come under an armed attack, including in the disputed South China Sea.

The Philippines has defense pacts allowing American and Australian forces to enter the country for annual combat-readiness and disaster-response training and is negotiating a similar agreement with Japan and considering another pact with France. It has held joint maneuvers with the US, Australian and Japanese navies this year.

In their largest and boldest annual military exercises last month, thousands of US and Philippine forces staged the retaking of an island and sank a warship in combat drills focusing on territorial defence in or near the South China Sea. They carried out aerial reconnaissance and logistical transport drills and secured an airfield during mock combat in a Philippine town near Taiwan.

For the first time we have evolved a realistic training scenario with evolutionary hypothetical scenarios where we can actually test our capabilities, Teodoro said. There will be more maritime cooperative activity between us and like-minded nations.

Chinese Defence spokesperson Wu Qian said in Beijing last month that we oppose external interference, muscle-flexing, provocations and harassment in the South China Sea and oppose piecing together exclusive circles or bloc confrontation." He said China would resolutely defend its territories.

Philippine actions to defend its internationally recognised exclusive economic zone can, in no way, be termed by any sane person as a provocation, Teodoro said, adding that Philippine officials were sworn to do that as their constitutional duty.

In addition to China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan are also involved in territorial disputes in the South China Sea, a key global trade route.

Marcos has ordered his military to shift its focus to external defence from decades of domestic anti-insurgency operations as China's actions in the South China Sea become a top concern. That shift dovetails with efforts by US President Joe Biden and his administration to reinforce an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's actions. (AP) SCY

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Frankfurt (Germany), May 24 (AP) The US sought to build support for squeezing more money for Ukraine out of frozen Russian assets and for uniting against China's aggressive trade practices as finance ministers from the Group of Seven rich democracies opened a two-day meeting on Friday on the shores of northern Italy's scenic Lago Maggiore.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is pushing at the meeting in Stresa for more ambitious options to unlock money from some USD 260 billion in Russian central bank reserves frozen in Europe and the US after the February 24, 2022, invasion.

Aid for Ukraine has become more urgent as Kyiv's finances look shakier against the prospect of an even longer conflict, and as Russia steps up its destruction of civilian infrastructure such as power stations.

European officials have balked at outright confiscating the funds and handing them to Ukraine as compensation for the destruction caused by Russia. Instead they plan use the interest accumulating on the assets, but that's only around USD 3 billion a year  about one month's financing needs for the Ukrainian government.

Proposals include borrowing against the future interest income from the frozen assets, so that Ukraine could be given as much as USD 50 billion immediately.

Ukraine spends almost all its tax revenue on the military and needs another USD 40 billion a year to continue paying pensions and the salaries of doctors, nurses and teachers. Support from allies and a USD 15.4 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund was initially thought to have secured the budget for four years, but the prospects of an extended conflict have darkened the outlook.

Yellen has also called for a clear united front against China's state subsidies for manufacturing of solar panels, semiconductors and electric cars, saying that China's production capacity exceeds the needs not only of China but of the global economy as a whole and threatens the existence of competing companies in both Group of Seven and developing countries. Ahead of the meeting she said that countries needed to take a common stance so that China's leaders understand that they face a wall of opposition to this strategy that they are pursuing.

The finance ministers are working to set up final decisions at the summit of G7 leaders that will take place June 13-15 in Fasano, in southern Italy's Puglia region.

The G7 is an informal forum that holds an annual summit to discuss economic policy and security issues. The member countries are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Representatives of the European Union also take part, but the EU does not serve as one of the rotating chairs. (AP) PY

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Melbourne (Australia), May 24 (AP) More than 100 people are believed to have been killed Friday in a landslide that buried a village in a remote, mountainous part of Papua New Guinea, and an emergency response is underway, the South Pacific island nation's leader and news media said.

The landslide reportedly hit Kaokalam village in Enga province, about 600 kilometers (370 miles) northwest of the capital, Port Moresby, at roughly 3 am, Australian Broadcasting Corp (ABC) reported.

Residents said estimates of the death toll were above 100, although authorities have not confirmed that figure. Villagers said the number of people killed could be much higher.

Prime Minister James Marape said authorities were responding and he would release information about the destruction and loss of life when it was available.

I am yet to be fully briefed on the situation. However, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the landslide disaster in the early hours of this morning, Marape said in a statement.

We are sending in disaster officials, PNG Defense Force, and the Department of Works and Highways ... to start relief work, recovery of bodies, and reconstruction of infrastructure, he added.

Videos on social media showed residents pulling out bodies buried under rocks and trees.

Elizabeth Laruma, who runs a women's business association in Porgera, a town in the same province near the Porgera Gold Mine, said houses were flattened when the side of a mountain gave way.

"It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours, and the entire village has gone down, Laruma told the ABC. From what I can presume, it's about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground.

The landslide blocked the road between Porgera and the village, she said, raising concerns about the town's supply of fuel and goods.

Village resident Ninga Role, who was away when the landslide struck, expects that at least four of his relatives died.

There are some huge stones and plants, trees. The buildings collapsed, Role said. These things are making it hard to find the bodies.

Belinda Kora, a Port Moresby-based ABC reporter, said helicopters were the only way of accessing the village, which is in the mountainous interior region known as the Highlands, with the main road closed.

Papua New Guinea is a diverse, developing nation of mostly subsistence farmers with 800 languages. There are few roads outside the larger cites.

With 10 million people, it is also the most populous South Pacific nation after Australia, which is home to some 27 million.

Telecommunications are poor, particularly outside Port Moresby where government data show 56 per cent of the nation's social media users reside. Only 1.66 million people across the country use the internet and 85 per cent of the population lives in rural areas. (AP) NPK

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Seoul, May 24 (AP) North Korea appears to be preparing to launch its second military spy satellite into space, South Korea's military said on Friday, as animosities remain high over the North's continued weapons tests.

Last November, North Korea placed its first military reconnaissance satellite into orbit as part of its efforts to build a space-based surveillance network to deal with what it calls US-led military threats.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later told a key governing party meeting that his country would launch three additional military spy satellites in 2024.

On Friday, South Korea's military told local reporters at a background briefing that it detected signs that North Korea is engaging in activities believed to be preparations to launch a spy satellite at its main Tongchangri launch facility in the northwest. The military said South Korean and US intelligence authorities are closely monitoring the North Korean moves.

The contents of the briefing were shared with foreign media outlets including The Associated Press. The South Korean military didn't immediately explain exactly what North Korean activities were spotted in the Tongchangri area.

After launching its Malligyong-1 spy satellite on November 21, North Korea said it had transmitted imagery of key sites in the US and South Korea, including the White House and the Pentagon. But it hasn't released any photos, prompting widespread doubts about the capacity of its satellite.

In recent months, North Korea has extended its run of missile tests to expand its weapons arsenal. Analysts say North Korea likely thinks a larger arsenal would increase its leverage in future diplomacy with the United States.

Last week, South Korea said North Korea fired suspected multiple short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast. North Korea later said it tested a tactical ballistic missile with a new autonomous navigation system. (AP) PY

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London, May 24 (AP) Britain's lawmakers will leave Parliament on Friday for the last time before an election is held in six weeks. Some will never return - members of Parliament who are retiring or who lose their seats on July 4 face an abrupt readjustment to life outside politics.

After a flurry of last-minute legislation, Parliament will be prorogued, or formally suspended, in a ceremony featuring hat-doffing, lords in ermine-trimmed robes and commands in Norman French.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's surprise decision to call a summer election means that some key pieces of legislation will have to be abandoned - including his flagship plan to ban tobacco sales to future generations.



WHAT'S HAPPENING ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

On the second full day of campaigning, Sunak and his main opponent, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, have already covered hundreds of miles (kilometers) crisscrossing the UK on carefully stage-managed visits to businesses and communities. Sunak is visiting Northern Ireland and central England on Friday, while Starmer is in Scotland and northwest England.

Labour is the strong favourite to win the election after moving from the left toward the political centre under Starmer, its leader since 2020.

The party got a reminder of its recent past on Friday, when Starmer's predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn, said he would run for Parliament as an independent against Labour's candidate. Starmer suspended Corbyn and barred him from running again for Labour after the former leader accused opponents of exaggerating the problem of antisemitism in the party.

Starmer apologised for antisemitism, a move welcomed by many Jewish Labour members and others. But supporters of Corbyn said he was being smeared because of his longtime support for the Palestinian cause.

Labour has not yet chosen its candidate to run in the inner-London seat of Islington North, which Corbyn has represented since 1983.

I am here to represent the people of Islington North on exactly the same principles that I've stood by my whole life: social justice, human rights and peace, Corbyn said.



HOW IS PARLIAMENT PROROGUED?

Parliament is set to break up for the election with a tradition-steeped ceremony in which lawmakers from the House of Commons are summoned to the House of Lords in the name of King Charles III by an official known as Black Rod. That's followed by a round of bowing and cap-doffing, before the title of each bill being passed is read out by an official with a cry of le roy le veult -- the king wills it in Norman French.

Parliament will be officially dissolved next week, 25 working days before election day. It will not sit again until after the election, when new members will be sworn in.

The new government, whether Labour or Conservative, is due to announce its legislative program at another occasion of pomp and ceremony, the State Opening of Parliament, on July 17.



WHAT LEGISLATION WILL BE PASSED FIRST?

Members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords were scurrying Friday to pass final pieces of legislation on the last day of a Parliament that began after the previous national election in December 2019 - a process known as washing up.

One of the most significant is a law that will quash the convictions of hundreds of Post Office branch managers who were prosecuted for theft or fraud because a faulty computer system known as Horizon showed money was missing. The prosecutions and yearslong cover-up by Post Office bosses has been called one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in UK history.

The Post Office (Horizon System) Offenses Bill was approved by Parliament late Thursday and is due to become law after receiving the formality of royal assent from King Charles III on Friday.

Victims of a tainted blood scandal in which thousands of people were infected with HIV and hepatitis by contaminated blood products in the 1970s and '80s will get compensation after the Victims and Prisoners Bill is passed by Parliament.

Also expected to make the statute book is a bill overhauling property law in England and Wales, giving more rights to people who own leasehold properties, where the building's freehold is owned by someone else.



WHAT BILLS WILL FAIL?

One of Sunak's flagship policies - a plan to create a smoke-free generation by banning the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after 2008 -- is among the bills that has run out of time.

It could be reintroduced by the new government if the Conservatives win the election. Labour supports the idea in principle and could also introduce a similar bill if it wins power.

A law that would ban landlords from evicting tenants without giving a reason is also falling by the wayside. (AP) SCY

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Budapest (Hungary), May 24 (AP) Hungary will seek to opt out of any NATO operations aimed at supporting Ukraine, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Friday, suggesting that the military alliance and the European Union were moving toward a more direct conflict with Russia.

Orban told state radio that Hungary opposes a plan NATO is weighing to provide more predictable military support to Ukraine in coming years to repel Moscow's full-scale invasion, as better armed Russian troops assert control on the battlefield.

We do not approve of this, nor do we want to participate in financial or arms support (for Ukraine), even within the framework of NATO, Orban said, adding that Hungary has taken a position as a nonparticipant in any potential NATO operations to assist Kyiv.

We've got to redefine our position within the military alliance, and our lawyers and officers are working on ... how Hungary can exist as a NATO member while not participating in NATO actions outside of its territory, he said.

Orban, considered Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest partner in the EU, emphasised NATO's role as a defensive alliance, and said he doesn't share the concerns of some other Central and Eastern European countries that Russia's military wouldn't cease its aggression if it wins the war in Ukraine.

NATO's strength cannot be compared to that of Ukraine, he said. I don't consider it a logical proposition that Russia, which cannot even deal with Ukraine, will come all of a sudden and swallow up the whole Western world.

Hungary has refused to supply neighbouring Ukraine with military aid in contrast to most other countries in the EU, and Orban has vigorously opposed the bloc's sanctions on Moscow though has ultimately always voted for them.

The nationalist leader is preparing for the European Parliament election on June 6-9, and has cast his party as a guarantor of peace in the region. He has characterised the United States and other EU countries that urge greater support for Ukraine as pro-war and acting in preparation for a global conflict. (AP) PY

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Singapore, May 24 (PTI) In-flight meal services will now be suspended when the seatbelt sign lights up on a Singapore Airlines plane to better manage turbulence in the air, an airline spokesperson has said, days after severe weather forced a flight to make an emergency landing in Bangkok with one dead and 60 injured.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it will continue to review inflight security processes, giving utmost importance to the safety of passengers and crew following last Tuesday's incident.

The SIA will continue to review our processes as the safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance, The Straits Times quoted a spokesman for the flag carrier as saying on Thursday.

In-flight meal services will now be suspended when the seat-belt sign lights up on a Singapore Airlines plane as part of efforts to take a more cautious approach to managing turbulence in the air, the spokesperson said.

Cabin crew will also sit down and fasten their seat belts when the seat-belt sign is lit, the SIA said on May 23.

Unlike in the past, when only hot drinks would be cut off during turbulence, the new measures would require all meal and drink services to stop when the ride gets bumpy.

Other existing safety measures that kick in during poor weather conditions, including getting crew members to secure loose items in the cabin, advising passengers to return to their seats and buckle up, and monitoring, will remain in place.

On May 21, Flight SQ321, which was heading to Singapore from London, experienced sudden severe turbulence over the Irrawaddy Basin in Myanmar during the breakfast service.

One passenger -- 73-year-old Briton Geoffrey Kitchen -- died, and dozens were injured.

The pilot declared a medical emergency and diverted the Boeing 777-300ER carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members to Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi Airport, where the plane made an emergency landing at 3.45 pm (4.45 pm Singapore time).

It is the first SIA aviation accident involving a fatality since the SQ006 crash in Taiwan in October 2000.

Meanwhile, SIA has apologised to the injured passengers who say they had no information from the airline.

Keith Davis, an Australian passenger, on May 23 complained to the media that he had not heard from any SIA staff since he was hospitalised, according to local reports.

Another Singaporean, who was previously in the Intensive Care Unit at a Bangkok hospital, has been discharged while 48 passengers from Flight SQ321 remain warded.

According to an update from Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, 34 passengers remain warded in its premises as of noon on May 24, with another 12 at the Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital and two at the Bangkok Hospital.

The 34 warded at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital  comprising 14 males and 20 females  are from countries such as Australia, Britain, Malaysia, and the Philippines, according to media reports.

Singapore Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat said on Friday he was relieved that passengers who were injured when the Singapore Airlines plane encountered severe turbulence were recovering and that some had already been discharged from the hospital and returned home.

He said investigators from Singapores Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) were going through data from the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder.

We await the investigation findings to understand what happened during those moments, the Singapore Daily quoted Chee as saying.

Investigators from TSIB, a department of the Transport Ministry responsible for investigating air, marine and rail accidents and incidents, had arrived in Bangkok on the night of May 21.

Asked what support the government is providing to the Singaporeans who remain in Bangkok, Chee said: We will continue to provide whatever support and assistance that is necessary, working closely with the SIA and also the Thai authorities to bring the passengers and crew home as soon as possible.

He praised the cabin crew on SQ321, noting that they continued to look after and help passengers despite being injured themselves.

I am truly appreciative and grateful to all the crew members for their dedication and their professionalism, he said.

A dedicated customer care representative is in contact with the couple to provide updates and assistance, said SIA, adding that it has also made arrangements for their family members to travel to Bangkok.

We remain committed to supporting all passengers and crew members who were on board SQ321, as well as their family members and loved ones, said SIA.
Frankfurt (Germany), May 24 (AP) The US sought to build support for squeezing more money for Ukraine out of frozen Russian assets and for uniting against China's trade practices as finance ministers from the Group of Seven rich democracies opened a two-day meeting on Friday on the shores of northern Italy's scenic Lago Maggiore.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is pushing at the meeting in Stresa for more ambitious options to unlock money from some USD 260 billion in Russian central bank reserves frozen in Europe and the US after the February 24, 2022 invasion.

Aid for Ukraine has become more urgent as Kyiv's finances look shakier against the prospect that the conflict will last through next year and beyond, and as Russia steps up its destruction of civilian infrastructure such as power stations.

The US Congress has passed legislation allowing the Biden administration to seize the roughly USD 5 billion in Russian assets located in the US, but most of the funds are in Europe. Citing legal concerns, European officials have balked at outright confiscating the money and handing it to Ukraine as compensation for the destruction caused by Russia.

Instead they plan use the interest accumulating on the assets, but that's only around USD 3 billion a year  about one month's financing needs for the Ukrainian government.

Proposals include borrowing against the future interest income from the frozen assets, so that Ukraine could be given as much as USD 50 billion immediately.

Host Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti said that extracting more for Ukraine legally is a very complicated discussion but also politically sensitive.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire praised Yellen for setting aside a proposal that he said would have undermined international rule of law, and added that the US proposal is now consistent with international law.

Let's compare the proposals, let's see what is the most convenient, the most efficient, the most rapid proposal that could be put in place," he said. "The key point is not the method that we use, the key point is to ensure the right and strong and longstanding financing of the Ukrainian government.

Ukraine spends almost all its tax revenue on the military and needs another USD 40 billion a year to continue paying pensions and the salaries of doctors, nurses and teachers. Support from allies and a USD 15.4 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund was initially thought to have secured the budget for four years, but the prospects of an extended conflict have darkened the outlook for next year.

Yellen has also called for a clear united front against China's state subsidies for manufacturing of solar panels, semiconductors and electric cars, saying that China's production capacity exceeds the needs not only of China but of the global economy as a whole and threatens the existence of competing companies in both Group of Seven and developing countries.

Ahead of the meeting she said that countries needed to take a common stance so that China's leaders understand that they face a wall of opposition to this strategy that they are pursuing.

The finance ministers are working to set up final decisions at the summit of G7 leaders that will take place June 13-15 in Fasano, in southern Italy's Puglia region.

The G7 is an informal forum that holds an annual summit to discuss economic policy and security issues. The member countries are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Representatives of the European Union also take part, but the EU does not serve as one of the rotating chairs. (AP) NPK

NPK
Jerusalem, May 24 (AP) Israel was told to halt its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, but judges on the top United Nations court stopped short of ordering a full cease-fire throughout the Palestinian territory.

The cease-fire request is part of a case filed late last year by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations. The case at the International Court of Justice will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

Israel faces global criticism over the mounting death toll and devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. More than a million Palestinians fled Rafah in recent weeks as Israeli forces press deeper into the city. Those displaced by fighting lack shelter, food, water and other essentials, the UN humanitarian agency said Wednesday.

At least 35,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to the Health Ministry, which doesn't distinguish between combatants and civilians.

After seven brutal months of war with Israel, Hamas has regrouped in some of the hardest-hit areas in northern Gaza, resuming rocket attacks into nearby Israeli communities. Israel says its troops are operating in Rafah, central Gaza and in Jabaliya in the north.

Israel launched its war in Gaza after Hamas' October 7 attack in which militants stormed into southern Israel, killed about 1,200 people  mostly civilians  and abducted about 250. Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more. The Israeli army said Friday that it recovered the bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7.



Currently:

 Israel's army says the bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7 were recovered overnight from Gaza.

 Top UN court orders Israel to halt military operation in Rafah; Israel is unlikely to comply.

 The Security Council will vote on resolution decrying attacks on the UN and aid workers, and demanding protection.

 Iran inters its late president at the holiest Shiite site in the nation after a fatal helicopter crash.

 More aid is getting from the US pier to people in Gaza after a troubled launch.



Here's the latest:

TOP UN COURT ORDERS ISRAEL TO HALT MILITARY OFFENSIVE IN RAFAH, BUT ISRAEL IS UNLIKELY TO COMPLY

THE HAGUE, Netherlands  The top United Nations court has ordered Israel to immediately halt its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah  but stopped short of ordering a full cease-fire.

Although Israel is unlikely to comply with Friday's order, it will ratchet up the pressure on the increasingly isolated country. Criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing, particularly on operations in Rafah.

It has even come from its closest ally, the United States. This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognize a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another UN court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders and Hamas officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under heavy pressure at home to end the war.

While the ruling by the International Court of Justice is a blow to Israel's international standing, the court does not have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has so far ignored a 2022 order by the court to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.



MACRON TO HOST TALKS WITH ARAB MINISTERS. CIA'S BURNS MEETING WITH ISRAELIS AND QATARIS IN PARIS

PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron will host Qatar's prime minister and other officials from Arab nations for talks on the Middle East on Friday, his office said.

It says the meeting at the presidential Elysee Palace will include, along with Qatar's prime minister, the foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, Saudia Arabia, and France. It says they'll be discussing the Middle East but gave no details

Meanwhile in Washington, a US official said CIA Director Bill Burns is meeting in Paris with Israelis and Qataris in informal talks aimed at getting hostage and cease-fire negotiations back on track, a US official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the meetings.

The official gave no time for the discussions.

Burns is in close contact with Egyptian officials, the official said. The Qataris and Egyptians are serving as mediators with Hamas officials, who are not taking part in person in the talks.



GERMANY PRESSES ISRAEL AND HAMAS TO URGENTLY ALLOW MORE AID INTO GAZA

BERLIN  Germany pressed Israel and Hamas on Friday to urgently allow the entry and distribution of more humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christian Wagner said the situation in Gaza was catastrophic and disastrous.

The Isreali government has stressed repeatedly that it wants to flood Gaza with humanitarian aid. Honestly speaking, that is not visible at the moment and that must urgently change, Wagner said at a government news conference.

For this, it is essential that more border crossings are opened, he said. It is also essential to secure the distribution of humanitarian assistance in Gaza. Hamas also has a responsibility here as well as the Israeli army.

Wagner said it was important to obtain the release of the Israeli hostages held by Hamas and to keep open the prospect of a political solution to the conflict.

Later Friday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterated that demand and said that the terror organization Hamas must finally release all the remaining hostages and agree to a long-term cease-fire."

At the same time, Israel must finally secure humanitarian supplies for the desperate people in Gaza, he added. "Four hundred to five hundred truckloads of aid is needed every day, and it is the responsibility of the Israeli government to ensure that these deliveries arrive.

Germany, a staunch ally of Israel, supports a revival of talks that could lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel. It has so far ruled out joining Norway, Ireland and Spain in recognizing Palestinian statehood, arguing that such a step should be part of the political process.



THE BODIES OF THREE HOSTAGES ARE RECOVERED FROM GAZA, ISRAELI ARMY SAYS

TEL AVIV, Israel  The bodies of three more hostages killed on October 7 were recovered overnight from Gaza, Israel's army said Friday.

The bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez Radoux were found and their families have been notified. The army said they were killed on the day of the attack at the Mefalsim intersection and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

The announcement comes less than a week after the army said it found the bodies of three other Israeli hostages killed on October 7.

Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and abducted around 250 others in the October 7 attack. Around half of those hostages have since been freed, most in swaps for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November.

Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of around 30 more.



INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE WILL RULE ON SOUTH AFRICA'S PLEA TO ORDER ISRAEL TO WITHDRAW FROM GAZA

THE HAGUE, Netherlands  The top United Nations court is ruling Friday on an urgent plea by South Africa to order Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza and withdraw from the enclave.

Israel is unlikely to comply with any such order. Even so, a cease-fire order by judges of the International Court of Justice would heap more pressure on an increasingly isolated Israel as it continues its military assault on Gaza following the deadly October 7 attacks by Hamas-led militants.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under heavy pressure at home to end the war. Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring home Israeli hostages in Hamas captivity, fearing that time is running out.

The International Court of Justice has broad powers to order a cease-fire and other measures, but it does not have its own enforcement apparatus.

Friday's ruling comes just days after the prosecutor of another court in The Hague, the International Criminal Court, announced he is seeking arrest warrants for Netanyahu, as well as Israel's defense minister and three Hamas leaders. (AP) NPK

NPK
Panaji, May 24 (PTI) Goa Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane on Friday said his department will register first information reports (FIRs) against persons violating the Preservation of Trees Act.

People take permission from the deputy conservators of forest from the North and South Goa divisions to fell trees citing some requirements, but end up violating the Preservation of Trees Act, the minister told PTI.

"Once they get permission, people go completely against the rules," he said.

Rane said directions have been issued to the principal chief conservator of Forest to register FIRs against violators, and the department will come down heavily on them.

Rane, who heads the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department, said action will be taken against people involved in illegal landfilling.

Several cases of illegal landfilling have been brought to the government's notice, and the department is probing them, he said.

The minister said that Bicholim MLA Chandrakant Shetye had recently filed a complaint against the illegal plotting of land at Mencurem village in his constituency, Bicholim.

The department will initiate action against illegal plotting, he said.
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province, Foping County is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and the habitat of the rare Qinling giant pandas. Since the inauguration of the Xi'an-Chengdu High-Speed Railway in 2017, travel time from Foping to Xi'an, the provincial capital, has dramatically reduced from four hours to just 40 minutes, opening up a wealth of development opportunities. This transformative project has spurred significant growth in tourism and economic activities, breathing new life into this once remote region. Click on the video and join us as we explore the revitalization and prosperity of Foping County.

Editor: WRX
Pune, May 24 (PTI) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday said stringent action should be taken in the car crash case in Pune, in which a 17-year-old accused fatally knocked down two persons.

A Porsche, allegedly driven by the teenager, who the police claim was drunk at the time, killed two motorbike-borne software engineers in Kalyani Nagar area of the city in the early hours of Sunday. The Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) had granted him bail while asking him to write a 300-word essay.

Following an outcry over quick bail and the police's review plea, the JJB on Wednesday remanded the teen, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, to the observation home till June 5.

Talking to reporters here, Pawar said, "Probe into the case should be conducted without interference from any political person. Whatever happened was serious and such incidents should be curbed and stringent action should be taken against those who are responsible in the case."

He said he was taking regular updates about the case from the Pune police.

There had been no political interference in the case and the case is being investigated in a transparent manner, the NCP chief said.

Pawar also said that strong action has been initiated against illegal pubs and bars in the city.

Meanwhile, Congress leader and Kasba MLA Ravindra Dhangekar wrote a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in which he demanded that the probe into the case should be led by a retired judge.

He said, "Pune is an educational capital. A large number of students from different parts of the state are in the city to study. Pune is widely known as a peaceful city. However, the pub culture is on the rise in the city. The pubs which are operating late at night are creating trouble for many. Moreover, the younger generation is getting addicted to pub culture and their lives seem to be getting ruined."

The Kalyani Nagar incident should be led by a retired judge, he said.

Dhangekar, who contested the Lok Sabha constituency from Pune seat, also staged a protest outside the police commissioner's office demanding that the investigation officer in the Kalyani Nagar accident be suspended and a police case be filed against him.
Gangtok, May 24 (PTI) Two students from humble backgrounds in Sikkim have bagged a silver and a bronze medal at this year's India Skills Competitions conducted by the central government in New Delhi.

Radhika Chettri, a student of B.Sc Emergency Medical Technology in Medhavi Skills University (MSU) secured a silver while Krishna Kumari Mukhia, specialising in B.Sc Radiology and Imaging Technology in the same institution, earned a bronze at the India Skills competition, a statement said.

The India Skills competition was held in New Delhi on May 19.

The feat by the two students has enabled them to set up their candidature for the World Skills contest to be held in Lyon, France, it said.

MSU is the youngest university to secure medals at the competition and this was the first time Sikkim earned medals at the national competition.

Coming from humble backgrounds in Ben, South Sikkim, and Adarsh Goan, East Sikkim, respectively, these fourth-semester students from Medhavi Skills University's School of Healthcare have journeyed to the forefront of national recognition, after going through regional competitions.

The journey of Radhika and Krishna finished on top when MSU hosted the inaugural rounds of the India Skills Competition (Eastern Region) in the health and social care category in March this year.

The two students' achievements at India Skills 2024 "mark a significant milestone not only for MSU but also for Sikkim which was represented for the first time at the competition," MSU founder and Chancellor Pravesh Dudani said in a statement.

"Medhavi Skills University would like to congratulate the achievers, their mentors and the entire Sikkimese community for this achievement which serves as a source of immense pride for Sikkim and the North East," he said.
Aizawl, May 24 (PTI) Assam Rifles and Mizoram police seized over 1 kg of heroin worth Rs 8.4 crore from Champhai district, an officer of the paramilitary force said on Friday.

Acting on a tip-off the joint team of Assam Rifles and Mizoram police seized the heroin from a car at Ngur village in east Mizoram's Champhai district on Wednesday, the officer said.

The contraband was believed to be smuggled from Myanmar, she said.

No person has been arrested in connection with the seizure, the officer added.
Bhubaneswar, May 24 (PTI) Amid the grueling heat and humidity, Odisha is all set for the third round of voting on Saturday, covering six Lok Sabha and 42 assembly segments, with the main contenders being the ruling BJD and the opposition BJP.

The parliamentary constituencies going to the polls are Sambalpur, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri. A total of 64 candidates are vying for the six Lok Sabha seats, while 383 contestants are competing for the 42 assembly segments. While it is the third round of polls in this eastern state, nationally it is the sixth phase.

In the 2019 elections, the BJD had secured Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Puri, and Cuttack, while the BJP won Sambalpur and Bhubaneswar.

For the assembly segments within these Lok Sabha seats, the BJD won 34 out of 42 seats in 2019, the BJP bagged six, and Congress two.

A total of 9,448,553 voters - 4,829,660 men, 4,617,602 women and 1,291 transgenders - are eligible to vote in 10,581 polling booths.

Odishas Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) NB Dhal said voting will start at 7 am, with the closing times varying between 4 pm and 5 pm based on local conditions.

Given the hot and humid weather forecast by the IMD, arrangements have been made at polling stations to provide water, shade, and other essentials. Special accommodations will be provided for the elderly and physically challenged voters.

DGP Arun Kumar Sarangi said 35,000 security personnel, including 121 companies of central forces, have been deployed across the six constituencies. About 2,000 polling booths have been identified as critical, necessitating the deployment of central forces to ensure free and fair elections.

Key candidates in this round include Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and four Odisha ministers - Prafulla Mallick, R P Swain, Ashok Panda, and Basanti Hembram.

Pradhan is contesting as a BJP candidate in Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat, facing BJD's Pranab Prakash Das. Pradhan, who has not contested in 10 years, previously lost in the 2009 assembly elections and was later elected to the Rajya Sabha from Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. He is replacing incumbent BJP MP Nitesh Ganga Deb.

The BJD has introduced new candidates in Cuttack, Puri, Dhenkanal, and Keonjhar, while the party has re-nominated Aparajita Sarangi in Bhubaneswar.

In Puri, BJP's Sambit Patra, who narrowly lost to BJDs Pinaki Mishra in 2019, is contesting again, this time against Arup Patnaik, a former Mumbai police commissioner.

In Cuttack, BJDs incumbent MP Bhartruhari Mahtab has switched to the BJP and is contesting against BJDs Santrupt Mishra, a former corporate leader. Mahtab has represented Cuttack since 1998.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other senior BJP leaders have campaigned extensively. Modi held rallies in Angul and Cuttack, as well as roadshows in Puri and Bhubaneswar. Shah held a roadshow in Cuttack, and BJP president JP Nadda held several meetings.

BJP chief ministers Himanta Biswa Sarma, Vishnu Dev Sai, Bhajan Lal, and former Tripura CM Biplab Deb also campaigned for party candidates.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and his aide V K Pandian campaigned for BJD candidates, while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in Salepur, Cuttack district.
Arrah (Bihar), May 24 (PTI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched a blistering attack on Lalu Prasad, alleging that the RJD chief neither worked for the welfare of backward classes nor the people belonging to his caste Yadav.

While addressing an election rally in favour of senior BJP leader and Union Minister R K Singh in Arrah, Shah said if Prasad, as part of the "arrogant" INDIA bloc, comes to power, "jungle raj, abduction, and gang war will return to Bihar".

"People dont want the return of 'jungle raj', gang war and abduction industry in Bihar. Lalu neither worked for the welfare of backward classes nor the people belonging to his own caste Yadav. They are under the wrong impression that Lalu works for them," Shah said.

"Lalu Ji allowed his two sons to become ministers, sent one daughter to Rajya Sabha, and another is contesting the Lok Sabha polls. He made his wife the chief minister of Bihar....He promotes only his sons and daughters. He cant think for the welfare of people belonging to his own caste," Shah said.

The BJP leader accused the Congress and the RJD of "trying to rob reservation from the quotas of SCs, STs and OBCs and give such benefits to Muslims".

"The NDA under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji will not allow this to happen. Congress, Lalu Prasad and Mamata Banerjee are against reservations to backward classes," he alleged.

"They have been exposed, he said, referring to a Calcutta High Court order that cancelled OBC certificates issued in the state since 2010.

The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday struck down as illegal the OBC status of several classes in West Bengal granted since 2010, sparking a political debate in the middle of the Lok Sabha elections.

The court observed that the inclusion of 77 classes of Muslims in the list of backward categories was to treat them as a vote bank

Shah also said, "If CPI-ML (Liberation) candidate wins from Arrah Lok Sabha seat, Naxalism will once again return to Bihar."

RK Singh, as a BJP candidate, is seeking re-election from the Arrah Lok Sabha constituency, while CPI-ML (Liberation) nominated Sudama Prasad as a 'Mahagathbandhan' candidate.

Voting will take place in Arrah on June 1.
Deoghar (Jharkhand), May 21 (PTI) Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday accused the Narendra Modi government of looting the country's water, forest and land in the past 10 years as had been done by the British.

Kharge also alleged that the saffron party has been dividing the country along religious lines while, he claimed, Congress always united Hindus and Muslims.

Like the British, the Modi govt looted water, forest and land of the country in 10 years. PM Modi handed over the country's assets to his billionaire friends. We faced the British and we are not afraid of the BJP," Kharge said while addressing a rally in Jharkhands Deoghar.

"The Congress unites Hindu and Muslims, while Modi divides Hindus and Muslims," he said.

The Congress leader urged the people to save the Constitution by showing the exit door to the saffron partys government at the Centre.

He said that if voted to power, the Congress would implement a separate Sarna religious code for tribals.

Referring to former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren, Kharge said, "Modi sent a tribal CM behind bars before polls. Jharkhand people will avenge this injustice."

The Congress will undertake a caste survey to deliver justice to people, he said.

Kharge was campaigning for Pradeep Yadav of Congress who is contesting from Godda Lok Sabha seat which is going to polls on June 1.
New Delhi, May 24 (PTI) Former prime minister Manmohan Singh cast his vote through postal ballot last week for the Lok Sabha elections in Delhi, the sources said here on Friday.

The sources said Singh, 91, voted at his residence as he is not keeping well. Singh is residing at Motilal Nehru Marg in central Delhi and he voted in the New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency, where Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Somnath Bharti of the INDIA bloc is pitted against Bansuri Swaraj of the BJP.

The former prime minister availed the facility provided by the Election Commission (EC) for the first time in Lok Sabha elections for the elderly above the age of 85 years to cast their vote at home. The facility has also been provided by the EC for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).

Former vice president Mohammad Hamid Ansari, former deputy prime minister L K Advani and former Union minister Murli Manohar Joshi also cast their votes using the home voting facility last week, the sources said.

Voters above 85 years of age and PwDs with 40 per cent benchmark disability can avail the optional home voting facility, the EC has said.

It said this initiative marks a significant stride towards ensuring inclusivity and accessibility of the electoral process and in bolstering democratic participation.

There are over 81 lakh voters above the age of 85 years in the country and over 90 lakh who are persons with disabilities registered as voters across the country.

Delhi has around one lakh voters who are above the age of 85 years.

Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi will cast their vote at Nirman Bhawan.

Voting for all the seven Lok Sabha constituencies in Delhi will take place on Saturday.
New Delhi, May 24 (PTI) The new criminal laws passed Parliament will tackle crime in an effective manner, Former Supreme Court judge Navin Sinha has said, while emphasising the need for effective training programmes for judges and police to make it a success.

Justice (retired) Sinha was Speaking at the launch of Supreme Court lawyer Ashwani Kumar Dubey's book "End of Colonial Laws - From Vision to Action".

"Society realised that times are changing and changes in law are required according to the time. Laws are norms laid down by society so that law and order and discipline is maintained in the society," the former judge said.

"Lawmakers realised that existing laws are not serving the purpose and changing dimensions of society. New laws will tackle the crime in an effective manner. Training is very important for the implementation of these laws and both the judges and the police need to be trained," Justice Sinha said.

BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said the Modi government has abolished "black laws" of the British regime and implemented three new laws to provide quick and easy justice to the people.

National Green Tribunal judge Justice Sudhir Agarwal said the new laws will speed up the justice delivery process.

National Green Tribunal judge Justice Sudhir Agarwal said the new laws will speed up the justice delivery process. "Crores of cases are pending in various courts of the country. News laws will speed up the justice delivery process," he said.

Senior journalist and former President of Editors Guild of India Alok Mehta said the book gives authentic information about the country's ancient justice system.

Former Supreme Court Bar Association President Adish Aggarwala, senior advocate Rakesh Khanna, Bennett University's Dean of School of Law Pradeep Kulshrestha and former Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association Rohit Pandey were also present at the function.

The newly enacted laws -- the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Act -- to completely overhaul the country's criminal justice law will come into effect from July 1.

The three laws got Parliament's approval on December 21 last year and President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent on December 25.
Shahjahanpur (UP), May 24 (PTI) A 22-year-old nurse was found dead in a hotel room here, with her family alleging that she was raped and then strangled, police said on Friday.

The body of the victim, who worked at a private hospital here, was found inside the room by a hotel staff on Thursday evening, Superintendent of Police (SP) Ashok Kumar Meena said.

An FIR has been registered and the police is investigating the incident, SP Meena said.

According to the FIR, the deceased arrived at the hotel room with Shubham Shukla, who later left the room.

"It has been alleged by the family members of the deceased that she was raped and then strangulated to death by Shubham Shukla. Based on the complaint, we have lodged a case of murder (302 IPC) and rape (376 IPC) against Shukla," a senior police officer said.

The body of the victim has been sent for post-mortem and three teams have been formed to arrest the accused, the police said.
By Rabbi Yair Hoffman

There are museum quality displays of various Ketubahs, and food and drink for the whole family. The event is scheduled for this LaG BaOmer at 636 Lannet in Far Rockaway between 1PM and 7 PM. And all proceeds go to Tzedakah  specifically Hachnassas Kallah.

The ticket packages range in prices and you can win $5,000. This is the Beer Miriam Tzipporah Hachnassas Kallah Fund, but the issues apply to all Chinese Auctions. It should be noted that the Beer Miriam Tzipporah Hachnassas Kallah Fund is a remarkable organization that is worthy of our generous support  notwithstanding what this article may conclude. Click here to purchase tickets.

Here are five interesting issues:

1] He thought he won and made a Boruch haTov vhameitiv. He lost. Was it a bracha levatala?

2] Is purchasing a raffle ticket permitted in the first place or is it a type of gambling that the sages forbade?

3] What if someones tzedaka raffle ticket was left out by accident  must the raffle be redone?

4] Is the $100 Package considered tzedakah in the first place?

5] Should raffles sway our Tzedakah priorities? Also, while we are at it, what are our Tzedakah priorities  or what should they be ideally in terms of halacha?

BRACHA LEVATALAH

In answer to our first question, Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein cites the Hisorerus Teshuva Vol. II #45 stating that the blessing was on his happiness  and at that time, he was happy. Although Rav Zilberstein (Chashukei Chemed Brachos 54a) believes that the Hisorerus is a bit too innovative  other Poskim accept it.

Why not attend a Chinese Auction to Help Hachnassas Kallah -this Lag BaOmer? You can even do so virtually! This Sunday 1 pm to 7pm at 636 Lannet Street in Far Rockaway. For details click here!

https://www.rayze.it/beerauction/

IS IT PERMITTED?

In response to whether or not it is permitted in the first place, Rav Ovadiah Yoeph in Yabia Omer Vol. VII (CM #7), rules that for Sefardim it is, in fact, forbidden. He is disagreeing with Yaskil Avdi (Vol. VIII YD 5:3) who permits it even for Sefardim. The reason is that the Rambam considers it a rabbinic form of theft based upon the principle of asmachta lo kanya  the purchaser believes that he is going to win and therefore does not fully give up on the money. Collecting that $100 according to the Rambam and the Shulchan Aruch is thus considered Rabbinic theft. Others hold that since the money is given over  this does not fall under the rubric of asmachta lo kanya. Rav Ovadya suggests that it may also be forbidden even for Ashkenazim.

Why not attend a Chinese Auction to Help Hachnassas Kallah -this Lag BaOmer? You can even do so virtually! This Sunday 1 pm to 7pm at 636 Lannet Street in Far Rockaway. For details click here!

https://www.rayze.it/beerauction/

IF THERE IS AN ERROR  SHOULD IT BE REDONE?

As far as the third question  Rav Chaim Kohns Business Halacha Institute rules that the tzedakah raffle must be redone  even if only one raffle ticket holder protests. The BHI cites Rav Yair Bacharach in Chavas Yair #61 who rules in regard to a Purim raffle for a large sum of money that when an error occurred and a slip number was left out of the hat  the entire raffle must be redone if even one of those who put in the slips complains  this is true even if their chances of winning are increased by the error. He cites the Gemorah in Bava Basra 106b and Shulchan Aruch CM Siman 175. The reason is that winning a raffle all has to do with hashgacha of Hashem.

DISAGREEING WITH RAV CHAIM KOHN

This author would like to suggest a very substantive difference between the two cases. In the Chavas Yairs case  it wasnt a tzedakah organization holding the raffle. There is a strong sevarah, rationale, to say that in such an instance  all parties would be mochel. Indeed, according to the Rishumei Aharon Vol. I page 86 by Rav Aharon Felder zl, Rav Moshe Feinstein, in fact ruled this way for Tzedakah organizations because their intention is for Tzedakkah. Od course, as in all areas of halacha, a competent Posaik should be consulted if this issue does come up.

Why not attend a Chinese Auction to Help Hachnassas Kallah -this Lag BaOmer? You can even do so virtually! This Sunday 1 pm to 7pm at 636 Lannet Street in Far Rockaway. For details click here!

https://www.rayze.it/beerauction/

IS IT TZEDAKAH?

And as for the fourth question, is it considered Tzedakah  the rule of thumb, as discussed with Rav Moshe Shternbuch is as follows: One should imagine that one is purchasing a raffle ticket not from a worthy tzedaka, but rather from, say, the local bowling league. Lets assume that 1000 tickets are being sold for $100 each. How much would a person pay for a tenth of one percent chance of winning $50,000? If a person would pay $50 then only the remaining $50 of the raffle ticket is considered maaser. If, however, you are risk averse and would only pay, say $25 for such a ticket then you can deduct $75. This is true even if the value is actually $50 (which it actually is).

RAFFLES VERSUS PRIORITIES IN TZEDAKAH

Finally, the last issue. The proliferation of raffles and Chinese auctions have created a situation where many people are no longer giving regular Tzedakah, or at least in significant amounts. Many Poskim (Rav Shternbuch among them) have suggested that this practice be curtailed. On the other hand, there are some very worthy tzedakos that need to do these things in order to raise the necessary funding. Should a raffle sway our priorities? This author believes that it should not.

THE PRIORITIES

What should our priorities be?

The poskim do, in fact, delineate an order as to which tzedakos or which aniyim (poor people) we should give to first.

A recent work printed in Yerushalayim by Rabbi Avrohom Moshe Zemmel, entitled Ahavas Tzedakah, provides us with just such a list.

There are three types of tzedakah where the phrase kodemes lakol (it precedes everything else) is employed. The three types are:

Charity given to a Torah educational institute whose very existence is threatened with closure and the future of Torah for Klal Yisrael, the Jewish People, is at stake. There are only three things for which we must sacrifice our livesto avoid the sins of murder, arayos, and idol worship. Yet we see that Rabbi Akiva sacrificed his life in order to teach Torah. How could this be? The answer is that it involved the future of Torah for the Jewish People. (This is based upon the words of the Birchas Shmuel in his introduction to tractate Bava Basra.) Charity given to save a Jew from conversion in a situation where it is permissible to violate the Shabbos in order to save him (see Orach Chaim 306:14). Charity given to save a lifeor to possibly save a lifei.e., pikuach nefesh.

Regarding charity for the poor, the precedence is as follows:

A poor person who is a relative receives precedence over a poor person who is unrelated. (Of course, if he will starve, the hungry poor person comes first.) A related poor person takes priority over the unrelated poor person even if the unrelated one is a Torah scholar (see Rabbi Akiva Eiger, Y.D. 251:3).

Ah, but which relative beats the other relatives in a claim for charity? Are there criteria as to which relative should be supported first?

The answer, of course, is, yes.

The first relative that deserves ones charity is yourself. If you cannot make a living, you should not be giving to others before yourself. This is based upon the pasuk Vchai achicha imachand your brother shall live with you; your existence comes first (Tur, Yoreh Deah, chapter 251, citing Rav Saadya Gaon).

The next relative is ones parents. A father and mother come before anyone else.

A son and daughter come next.

A brother and sister come next.

A paternal sibling comes before a maternal sibling.

Ones spouses relatives come before strangers.

Ones ex-spouse comes before others (see Rema 119:8).

A talmid chacham (Torah scholar) non-relative precedes a non-relative who is not a talmid chacham, even if the talmid chacham is not from ones own city.

Unrelated poor people from ones own city precede poor people from another citybut not when the poor of another city have greater needs (see Y.D. 251:3 and Responsa Chasam Sofer Y.D. 234).

The poor of Eretz Yisrael have precedence over the poor of another city, but not over the poor of ones own city (see commentaries of Shach and Bach, Y.D. 251:6).

This last criterion is key. According to most poskim our local charitable cases beat out the poor of Eretz Yisrael. This would mean that the local Davis Memorial Fund would have precedence over the Israel charity cases. (There is, however, an opinion of the Debreciner Ravs older brother, the BeTzel HaChochmah [Vol. IV, 163:16] that there are two mitzvos involved regarding the poor in Israel: the mitzvah of settling the Land as well as the mitzvah of tzedakah. He opines that the poor of Israel would beat out the poor in our own city. One should consult ones rav, but the simple answer seems to be like the Shach and Bach, that the local poor people have precedence.)

What about where we have two equal relatives? Is there another criterion that comes into play? For example, if one has two siblings, both in need of assistance, which one comes first?

The one who is a greater Torah scholar receives precedence over the other.

The next criterion is based upon gender; a sisters needs take precedence to a brothers.

Are there different grades of talmidei chachamim? In other words, if there are two Torah scholars and one of them has a much wider breadth of knowledge but the other has a deeper breadth of knowledge, who precedes the other? The Vilna Gaon (Shulchan Aruch 251:18) cites the Talmud Yerushalmi that the breadth-of-knowledge scholar receives precedence to the depth-of-knowledge scholar.

It is important to note that one should make every effort possible to avoid supporting ones parents with tzedakah money. The Gemara tells us (Kiddushin 32a) that a curse should come upon a person who supports his parents through money that is destined for charity. This means that the money he should spend on them should be aside from money that he should give to charity. Of course, if there is no other optionif he cannot afford to give boththen there is nothing wrong with giving to his parents. The Talmud is only referring to a case where a person could have afforded to do otherwise.

There are also other criteria for priority of tzedakah:

Pidyon shvuyim (redeeming captives) is primary.

Supporting a mikveh, in a place where there is no other mikveh and there is a chance that people will stumble in prohibitions that involve kareistakes precedence over supporting a yeshiva.

Charity so that children can study Torah is next (i.e., a yeshiva).

There is a debate as to whether tzedakah to run the day-to-day activity in the beis haknesses (for example, the electricity bill) receives precedence over tzedakah to poor people. The Shulchan Aruch (Y.D. 251:16) rules that the synagogue needs come first, while the Vilna Gaon (Y.D. 251:20) rules that the poor people receive precedence. Clearly, everyone agrees that it is only the day-to-day activities being discussed and not the building fund (see Aruch HaShulchan, ibid). Indeed, Rav Vosner questions how some institutions can be requesting tzedakah funds to build beautiful edifices when there are poor people who are literally starving.

The issue of need is also important. If one person needs money now while another needs it later, Rav Moshe Feinstein writes that the more pressing need takes precedence (Igros Moshe, Y.D. Vol. I, No. 144).

The bottom line is that tzedakah precedence and the decision of who to give to is not something that should be approached flippantly or without thought, and should not be swayed by Chinese auctions or raffles. Tzedakah is a limited resource (and, with the current financial crisis, it appears that it will become even more limited). One should keep in mind that there exist halachic criteria as to which receives precedence.

One last thought: Tzedakah should be given lishmah, with the best of intentions. It should not be done to impress anyone elsewhether they be friends, family, or ones rav or poseik. It should also be given bseiver panim yafoswith a smile.

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The author can be reached at [email protected]
A Turkish migrant, who told Fox News he paid around $10,000 to a cartel on his way to the United States, selling everything he owned, expressed concerns about the lack of security at the southern border.

After crossing illegally into Jacumba, California, in San Diego County, the man told Fox News: In fact, American people is right, completely true. Who comes into this country? They dont know. OK, Im good. But how if theyre not good? How if theyre killers, psychopath, else? No guarantee of that.

He further described the border crossing experience: Like, no security, no security check, no background check.

He voiced his worries about who might be crossing the border, stating, people are not normal.

The man detailed his journey to the U.S., explaining it took him 24 days and involved travel through Qatar, Dubai, Egypt, South Africa, and Brazil before arriving in Central America to make his way to the U.S.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Israels National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has announced a new initiative to recruit Charedim to join the Israel Police force. The plan, which is already underway, aims to double the number of Charedi police officers and volunteers, increasing the current total of 423 to 1,200.

Ben Gvir took to social media to promote the initiative, encouraging Charedim to join the police force in various positions, including the Border Police, cybersecurity, detective work, and online and technological policing. He emphasized that the roles would be tailored to accommodate an Frum lifestyle, including gender-separated work environments.

According to an article in Yisrael Hayom, it is unclear how many of these recruits will be volunteers. Volunteer training will be offered to Charedim who have previously served in the army, and will consist of a 30-hour course.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
A Chareidi man in Zurich, Switzerland was attacked on Wednesday by a Muslim man, who began beating and cursing him, Kikar HShabbat reported on Thursday.

The Chareidi quickly turned the tables around and managed to overpower his assailant, knock him to the ground, and hold him down until the police arrived.

The police handcuffed and arrested him and brought him to the station for questioning.

In March, a Muslim teen stabbed a Chareidi man in Zurich eight times, leaving him seriously injured.

BChasdei Hashem, the man eventually recovered after being hospitalized for a month, many police officers patrol the streets of the frum neighborhood, and as can be seen in the video, many police officers quickly arrived at the scene.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
US House Speaker Mike Johnson announced on Thursday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address a joint session of Congress.

This will be a timely and very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need, Johnson said during the Israeli Embassy in Washingtons annual Independence Day event.

Johnson did not specify the date of Netanyahus speech but mentioned that US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had agreed to endorse the invitation.

Schumers cooperation comes just a month after he called for early elections in Israel to replace Netanyahu, whom he described as an obstacle to peace.

Even with an official invitation, it remains uncertain whether Netanyahu will accept, considering the contentious nature of such an address.

Nearly 60 Democrats boycotted Netanyahus last joint session speech in 2015. That address was organized by Republican Congressional leaders without informing then-President Barack Obama and aimed at lobbying against the nuclear deal with Iran, which the US eventually signed later that year.

A potentially larger number of Democrats might boycott a Netanyahu speech now, amid Israels war against Hamas in Gaza, which has faced increasing criticism from progressives.

While Netanyahu appears to have secured an invitation from Congress, he has not yet received one from the White House. A trip to Washington without a White House invitation would further emphasize this divide.

Before October 7, Netanyahu had not been invited to the White House since returning to office in late 2022. His efforts to overhaul Israels judiciary and actions perceived as detrimental to the US administrations efforts to preserve a two-state solution had drawn President Bidens disapproval. Biden did visit Israel shortly after the Hamas-led attack, marking the first-ever visit by a US president to the Jewish state during a war.
John Wood Group has rejected a third takeover bid from Dubai-based rival Dar Al-Handasah, known as Sidara.

The FTSE 250-listed industrial engineering group told investors on Friday that Sidara's latest bid of 220p per share still 'significantly undervalued' the firm and its prospects.

In mid-May, it snubbed a second offer from Sidara worth 212p per share, or 1.5billion, having rejected a 1.4billion bid earlier in the month.

Wood Group says third Sidara bid still undervalues the oilfield services firm

Wood Group shares were up 3 per cent to 185.4p by midafternoon, having gained more than 30 per cent over the past year.

The firm said: 'The board, together with its financial advisers, carefully considered the third proposal, in particular, in the context of the board's view of the fundamental prospects of Wood, and concluded that it continued to significantly undervalue the group and its prospects.

'Accordingly, the board unanimously rejected the third proposal on 23 May 2024.'

Wood Group's profit margins grew in the first three months of 2024 even as revenues dropped 6 per cent.

To bolster its defences against takeover predators, Wood is currently restructuring to save up to 48million a year from 2025 after cutting about 200 jobs.

Wood is the latest London-listed firm to be eyed by overseas predators, who are attracted by the perceived undervaluation of London-listed stocks.

Package firm DS Smith, haulier Wincanton and housebuilder Redrow have all agreed to be bought this year.

Sidara now has until 5pm of 5 June to make another bid for Wood or walk away, though this deadline can be extended.
Wood Group yesterday became the latest London-listed firm to reject a foreign takeover bid in another sign that the City is fighting back.

It comes after Hargreaves Lansdown and Anglo American also rebuffed multi-billion-pound approaches this week while BT thumbed its nose at short-sellers betting against it.

Simon French, chief economist at Panmure Gordon, said there had been a 'definite change of tone'.

UK fund flows have also started to climb. Some 120million was pumped into active UK funds last month, according to Liberum, whose analyst, Joachim Klement, said this showed 'tentative signs' of recovery  after a prolonged exodus of investors.

That will be a much-needed shot in the arm for UK plc. Figures from investment firm Dealogic suggest there have now been 73billion completed or pending deals this year and 8.5billion in withdrawn or cancelled advances.

This takes the total value of bids made for UK companies this year to more than 80billion.

Among those targeted are packaging group DS Smith, telecoms testing company Spirent Communications and haulage firm Wincanton.

FTSE 250 cyber-security group Darktrace recently backed a 4.3billion takeover by US private equity firm Thoma Bravo.

But the firms are increasingly putting up a fight against predators. Wood Group, which provides engineering services for the energy and materials industry, rejected a third buyout proposal from Dubai's Sidara.

The Aberdeen-based group said the 1.5billion offer continued to 'significantly undervalue' it.

This was hot on the heels of Anglo American snubbing a 'final' offer from rival BHP on Wednesday, which valued the FTSE 100 company at 39billion. Direct Line and Currys have also fought off foreign takeovers.

It appears to reflect a change of sentiment in the Square Mile. French noted a 'definite change of tone at board level from acceptance of offers to higher confidence to hold out for more and staring down short sellers'.

Allison Kirkby, chief executive of BT, last week chided investors who placed a record 300m bet against the FTSE 100 company.Several major institutions and hedge funds have taken 'short' positions in the stock  expecting the share price to fall.

But the telecoms boss said her plans mean 'some of those shorts will start to diminish'. Kirkby said BT would aim to save another 3billion by the end of 2029.

However the UK is not out of the woods. Analysts at Jefferies picked out more than 70 possible takeover targets in Europe, including London-listed firms such as Entain and Pensionbee.

Lansdown: Stock has woken up

Hargreaves Lansdown co-founder Stephen Lansdown yesterday said the takeover bid has 'woken' interest in its shares.

Lansdown, who started the investment platform in 1981 with Peter Hargreaves, commented after the board rejected a 4.67billion approach from a consortium including the private equity group CVC and Abu Dhabi investors.

Hargreaves Lansdown shares ended the week 21 per cent higher despite retreating 2.7 per cent, or 30p, to 1090p yesterday.

Lansdown, 71, is the second-largest individual shareholder, with a 6 per cent stake. 'It's woken the stock up,' he told Bloomberg. 'It's interesting to see that third parties are seeing the value and looking to take advantage of it. It's nice the company's value is being recognised.'

The comments come just a day after Hargreaves, the largest shareholder, with a near-20 per cent stake worth just over 1billion, said he was 'looking at all options'.

Redcentric the latest target

Shares in IT services provider Redcentric rose 13 per cent as it became the latest London-listed firm to be targeted by a foreign bidder.

It said it was in the 'early stages of discussions' with Italian rival Wiit regarding an offer and there was 'no certainty' of a bid.

Under takeover rules Wiit, which specialises in providing cloud services and cybersecurity, must announce whether it wants to make a formal offer or walk away by June 21.

Redcentric shares soared 12.8 per cent, or 17.2p, to 152p, taking gains for the year to nearly 20 per cent.

The stock has hit its highest level since September 2020 but remains nearly a quarter off its peak in 2016.

It is valued at just over 200million.
Royal Mail's owner yesterday insisted the postal service is back on track despite missing delivery targets and losing nearly 1million a day over the past year.

The results came days before a crunch deadline that could see the 508-year-old firm fall into foreign ownership for the first time.

Parent company International Distributions Services (IDS) said the business had 'stabilised' as it revealed that Royal Mail was 348million in the red in the year to the end of March.

Uncertain future: Royal Mail may fall into foreign hands

But it urged regulators to accelerate reforms so it can cut costs by 300million a year.

It came as watchdog Ofcom launched a fresh investigation into Royal Mail after it failed to meet delivery targets. The operator has already been fined 5.6million for its woeful performance the year before.

The IDS annual results were published a day later than planned after auditor KPMG asked for more time to sign off the accounts. It came after the board last week said it was 'minded to recommend' a 3.5billion takeover bid from Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.

Kretinsky, known as the 'Czech Sphinx', has until 5pm on Wednesday to make a formal offer or walk away. A takeover of Royal Mail would probably receive intense scrutiny from Westminster and regulators.

However, Martin Seidenberg, the boss of parent company IDS, said: 'In the last six months we have set Royal Mail on the right trajectory. We made good progress delivering our modernisation agenda and returned to growth in the second half.

'We have improved quality, won back customers lost during industrial action, controlled costs and delivered Christmas for our customers.

'Positive momentum is building although there is hard work to get back to profitability.' He reiterated calls for regulators to reform the service, saying they 'need to get on with it' to allow Royal Mail to turn a profit.

Bosses have been lobbying for changes to the universal service obligation, which means Royal Mail must deliver letters six days a week for a fixed price.

Ofcom yesterday said that Royal Mail delivered just 74.5 per cent of first-class mail within one working day, compared to a target of 93 per cent.

It handed over 92.4 per cent of second-class mail within three working days, missing a threshold of 98.5 per cent.

Royal Mail, which was privatised in 2013, has said it is unable to meet the target, which it has estimated cost the business up to 675million a year.

It has asked ministers and Ofcom to allow it to scrap second-class letter deliveries on Saturdays and to cut the service to every other weekday in a bid to save money.

IDS yesterday said that voluntary redundancies would be fewer than 1,000.

As a group, IDS reported a loss of 28million compared to 71million a year earlier, with its European parcel business GLS making a 320million profit.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is ready to provide assistance to any Irish tourists caught up in the building collapse in Mallorca, it has confirmed.

No Irish tourists have been reported injured in the incident in which four people have died, including two German tourists.

Spanish emergency authorities said four people have died and several more have been seriously injured after a building collapsed on the island of Mallorca last night.

"The victims are two German women aged 20 and 30, a 23-year-old Spanish employee and a 44-year-old Senegalese man," a police spokesperson said.

Emergency services said that seven people had been very seriously injured while another nine were seriously injured. They were being attended at local hospitals.

A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs said: " The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the incident and stands ready to provide consular assistance".

BREAKING: ROOF COLLAPSE IN MAJORCA, 2 DEAD, 12 INJURED



A roof collapse at a Playa de Palma restaurant in Majorca killed two and injured at least 12, with at least 10 reportedly trapped under rubble.



Emergency services confirmed the casualties, crews are still on site pic.twitter.com/4yVZIQcUxj  Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) May 23, 2024

A search and rescue operation is now underway with emergency crews requesting silence so that can hear people who may be buried under rubble.
A man has been arrested in connection with a violent incident on Monday, during which a garda was hit by a car and hospitalised while responding in Dublin.

The man, in his 30s, was arrested this morning and is currently being detained at a Garda station in the Dublin region.

Gardai said they are investigating all the circumstances of what they describe as an "endangerement incident" that occurred in Dublin 15 on Monday, May 20th.

During the incident, several other patrol cars were reportedly rammed.

He is due to appear before a sitting of Court 2 of the CCJ this evening.

The injured garda has since been released from hospital.

GRA representative for the DMR West, Detective Garda Mark Ferris said in a statement that it is "deeply regrettable that yet another young Garda has been injured while on duty".

"While trying to effect an arrest, the armed assailant struck the Garda with his car and went on to ram other patrol cars as he fled the area" Detective Harris continued.

"He is recovering and naturally is in shock having been struck by the assailants vehicle. Reflecting on what was a lethally dangerous situation, he "feels blessed" that he wasnt run over and his injuries are non life threatening.

No member of An Garda Siochana deserves to be injured or face assault while on duty but unfortunately too often that is the case and there are simply not enough Gardai to protect their colleagues when they come under attack.
Per ushe, nobody is happy with local political flexing on the topic of the latest war in the Holy Land.

However . . . One perspective and not-so-fun fact stands out . . .

Mayor & Council were quick to launch a resolution in support of Ukraine.

Meanwhile . . .

Despite support for progressive causes like homeless housing, slavery reparations, tenants rights, local control of police and weed legalization . . . Mayor Q and the council majority conclude this week by disappointing local leftists.

Here's the finale for now . . .



The Kansas City Council has scrapped a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, in response to a threatened veto from Mayor Quinton Lucas and vocal opposition from a Northland representative.



4th District Council member Eric Bunch, who sponsored the legislation, also pulled another resolution that would recognize the work of a local group of Palestinian medical professionals.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links from both sides . . .

Kansas City Council derailed by Gaza ceasefire resolution and recognition of Palestinian doctors Mayor Quinton Lucas threatened to veto the ceasefire resolution and another item recognizing the work of a Kansas City nonprofit that's been providing medical aid in Gaza. Palestinian groups have been calling on Kansas City Council to support a ceasefire for months.

Kansas City Council lets pro-Palestinian resolutions live on, but kills resolution taking notice of Oct. 7 Hamas atrocities Two resolutions seen as overly favorable to the Palestinian side in the Mideast war were surprisingly pulled from the left-wing Kansas City Council's agenda on Wednesday, though they could emerge ag...

Developing . . .
Local policy is probably the most important place to start this discussion . . .

POLICE & MAYOR Q WARN OF TEEN CURFEW CRACKDOWN AS THEY PLEAD FOR PEACE ON KANSAS CITY STREETS!!!

There wasn't much info if the curfew would be strictly enforced this time around given that an understrength police force and racially charged complaints have thwarted efforts to get youngsters off the streets in recent years.

Even worse . . .

So many "youngsters" causing mayhem after dark aren't subject to the curfew anyhoo . . . A lot of them are pushing 30-years-old as trending illegal street racing and sideshows earlier in the year hint that a hardline approach isn't in the cards.

However . . .

It's somewhat interesting that Chief Graves wasn't on hand for this conversation.

Of course there was a hint at recent progress that still might be the result of an arctic freeze earlier this year.



Nevertheless we ask our blog community . . .

WILL "FOCUSED DETERRENCE" WORK TO AVOID ANOTHER RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR KANSAS CITY HOMICIDES!?!?



Here's a quote from the conversation and links more reporting . . . Check-it:



Police and Mayor Quinton Lucas say a focus on deterrence, community partners and youth curfews could help stem the record violence of last year, when there were seven homicides over Memorial Day weekend.



Kansas City Police and Mayor Quinton Lucas on Friday pointed to a focused deterrence plan, youth curfews and community partnerships to hopefully cut down on the citys chronic gun violence.



Lucas also begged people to refrain from celebratory gunfire and to call police if arguments begin to escalate into violence.



We ask everyone to put the guns down, Lucas said. But if you do hear gun violence or shootings in your community, make sure that you call authorities.



Lucas said the citys homicides are down 15% compared to a five-year average going into the Memorial Day holiday, which he called a positive trend.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Summer in Kansas City means a youth curfew as mayor begs residents to 'put the guns down' City leaders planned to unveil more in the coming week about a program called Stand Against Violence Kansas City, or SAVE KC, Lucas said. After the Super Bowl Parade shootings, Police Chief Stacey Graves said she would be working more on focused deterrence of crime.

Kansas City mayor, deputy police chief discuss violent crime ahead of Memorial Day weekend KC Mayor Quinton Lucas and Deputy Police Chief Joe Mabin say homicides are down 15% this year, though they're calling on the public's help to make this year's Memorial Day weekend safe.

Curfew for Kansas City teens goes into effect this weekend The City of Kansas City has announced a curfew for minors for the summer months beginning Memorial Day weekend.

Developing . . .
We linked this story previously but the tragic news deserves its own post given that tragic violence around the world continues to impact the Heartland.



Here are the basics and more reporting . . .



Missouri state Rep. Ben Bakers daughter and son-in-law were among three people shot and killed in a gang attack while serving as missionaries in Haiti, the politician said Friday.



My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain, the Republican lawmaker wrote on Facebook.



Bakers 21-year-old daughter, Natalie, and her husband, Davy Lloyd, 23, died alongside their mission groups director when they were attacked by gangs on Thursday evening, Baker said.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

American missionary couple killed in Haiti, agency says Two American missionaries in Haiti were killed Thursday, a Christian nonprofit said. Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker said his daughter, Natalie, was one of the missionaries.

US missionaries killed in Haiti gang violence Tens of thousands of people have been forced to flee from months of widespread gang violence in Haiti.

Developing . . .
Fun fact . . .

This might be the first recall in our favorite suburb in 15 years.

Meanwhile . . .

Mayor Eric Mikkelson seems none-too-pleased . . . Here's a quote we liberated from behind a local blog paywall for news and educational purposes:



There was no wrongdoing, Mikkelson said. There was no misconduct. There was no personal benefit. There was no misuse of public money. In the summer of 2023, there was no recall issue before the electorate because there was no authorized recall, a reference to the fact that Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe, at that time, had not approved any petition for signature-gathering . . .

Mikkelson said that by failing to verify the allegations, Howes opinion essentially determines that any three residents can fabricate misconduct allegations to start a political recall in Kansas under this standard as now interpreted.

He went on to say that the abusive smear tactics gum up the democratic process and take time and resources away from issues the city should be focusing on, such as public safety, parks and infrastructure.



Mikkelson said that the repeated recall attempts have had an impact on him and his family and have broader citywide ramifications.



These tactics discourage volunteer public service, waste taxpayer dollars, damage staff morale, and divide the community, Mikkelson wrote.



If that's his best defense . . . He's might have to do better.

Actually, that it seems that he misunderstands the ALLEGATIONS which really focus on use of taxpayer funds for personal benefit against critics . . . Recall or otherwise.



In fairness, here's the word from the other side as the JoCo Post blog plays a part in the controversy as well:



"This IS NOT about politics as they want you to believe, we are a non-partisan group. It's 100% about holding our elected officials ACCOUNTABLE for a city that we all love."

Here's their flyer with more info . . .

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Save PV: Recall Mayor Eric Mikkelson and help Save Prairie Village!

From the paywalled JoCo Post . . .

Prairie Villagers to gather petition signatures to recall mayor It appears that Prairie Villagers are going to be in city parks over Memorial Day weekend asking folks to sign a petition to recall Mayor Eric Mikkelson.

Developing . . .
Are you new to Ontario and need to exchange your out-of-province or international drivers licence for one thats valid here?

If so, the province has made it easier for you to book an appointment. It created an appointment booking portal online.

Newcomers to the province have 60 days to exchange an out-of-province or international drivers licence for an Ontario one.

There are a number of criteria to be eligible for an exchange and the process varies depending on how long youve been driving and where you were licensed.

You can exchange an out-of-province licence for an Ontario licence if you are relocating from:

 any Canadian province or territory

 Canadian Armed Forces

 U.S. states

 Australia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Isle of Man, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Switzerland, or Taiwan (these countries have a reciprocal licence agreement with us)

You cannot exchange a learners permit or novice-class licence from another province, country or state.

You also cannot exchange a motorcycle class drivers licence from Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, Great Britain, Austria, Belgium, Isle of Man, or Republic of Ireland for a Class M motorcycle licence here.

Newcomers wishing to exchange their drivers licences can book an appointment through drivetest.ca.

Appointments will be taken at any of the following DriveTest locations:

Brampton

Downsview

Etobicoke

Hamilton

Kitchener

London

Mississauga

Metro East

Newmarket

Oakville

Orangeville

Oshawa

Ottawa Walkley

Port Union

Windsor

Ontario is proud to welcome more than 200,000 new residents each year, coming from near and far, said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria in a news release. That is why our government is working to make their transition as seamless as possible by making it easier than ever to exchange a drivers licence, while also reducing wait times and lineups at DriveTest locations.

More information on exchanging an out-of-province licence is available at ontario.ca.
Colombia has initiated a remarkable underwater expedition to explore the remnants of a Spanish warship. This ship, the San Jose, sank over 300 years ago near Cartegena. It is believed to hold a fortune in artifacts.

The government of Colombia, along with international scientists, first located the shipwreck in 2015. They claim it as a significant historical and cultural find. The initial phase of the exploration began by taking photographs using advanced, non-intrusive technology.

Colombia's Quest Unearths Sunken Spanish Warship Treasures

This ship, known as the "holy grail of shipwrecks," was the main vessel in a Spanish fleet carrying precious cargo from Peru to Colombia. Tragically, it sank with 600 people aboard during a battle in 1708.

The ongoing project aims to meticulously document the site and assess potential items on the sea floor.

CNN reported that the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History has taken steps to protect the area around the wreck. They have designated it as a protected archaeological site. This ensures that the scientific and archaeological value of the findings remains intact.

Furthermore, this venture into the deep sea has sparked a hefty legal challenge.

A U.S.-based company claims they discovered the wreck decades earlier and is now seeking a share of the shipwreck's estimated $20 billion value. Colombia, however, disputes these claims, emphasizing their original discovery in 2015.

As Colombia progresses with this historic exploration, it aims to recover valuable artifacts and deepen understanding of the early 18th-century European socio-economic conditions.

This project highlights Colombia's commitment to preserving and learning from its submerged historical treasures.

Related Article : Top Five Places To Visit In Colombia For Fans Of Netflix's Narcos

Colombia Sees Surge in Tourism Growth

Colombia has experienced a significant boost in its tourism sector, reporting a record $9 billion in revenue from air passenger transportation and travel by the end of 2023. According to Travel Pulse, this figure marks a 22.4 percent increase compared to the previous year.

The positive trend is expected to continue, with international tourist arrivals projected to rise by 24 percent in the first half of 2024. This increase positions Colombia third among Latin American countries for tourism growth.

The surge in tourism is largely attributed to a record number of non-resident visitors reaching over 5.8 million in 2023, which is a 26.6% increase from 2022.

Cartagena and Medellin are among the top urban destinations, with expected bookings to grow by 34% and 57%, respectively, in the upcoming year.

Air travel connectivity has also improved, with 28 airlines linking 11 Colombian cities to 51 international cities. This development has facilitated a substantial increase in air traffic, accommodating over 11.8 million passengers last year.

In addition to boosting local economies, the influx of tourists has contributed significantly to Colombia's GDP. The travel and tourism sector surpassed its pre-pandemic contribution levels in 2022, accounting for $14.9 billion and supporting 1.25 million jobs.

This resurgence underscores Colombia's role as a dynamic player in the global tourism industry, offering diverse attractions from coastal adventures to cultural experiences.
If you really want to visit Ireland, then Galway should top your list of must-see destinations. This vibrant city teems with colorful streets, live music, and an authentic Irish pub scene that captures the true spirit of Ireland.

Galway is packed with charm and perfect for travelers who love to dive into the local culture. You can wander through medieval streets, sample fresh seafood like fish & chips and oysters straight from the Atlantic, and catch live music acts that keep the city alive well into the night.

And do not forget the shopping - Galway is a place for unique finds like Claddagh rings and cozy Aran sweaters.

Here's everything you need to know before you go on your Irish vacation in Galway.

Why Galway Is a Must-Visit

If you really want to experience Ireland, Galway is your go-to destination. This city buzzes with energy, from its colorful street performances to the lively pubs echoing with music.

You will find that each corner of the city offers something unique, even if it is a piece of history or a food. Galway is where Irish traditions meet contemporary vibes, making it a fantastic spot for every type of traveler.

Get Lost in the Streets of Galway

Wandering through Galway's streets is like stepping into a storybook where every street has its own tale. The Latin Quarter, with its cobblestone lanes and bustling cafes, is perfect for afternoon strolls.

Do not rush here; take your time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic shops. Evenings bring a different vibe as the city lights up and music spills out of every pub and restaurant. This is your chance to see Galway come alive.

Music and More in the Heart of Ireland

Music is the soul of Galway, and you will feel it everywhere you go. From traditional Irish tunes to modern beats, the city has a sound for everyone. The best part is, you do not have to look hard to find live music; it is literally around every corner, especially at night.

Local musicians are incredibly talented, often playing late into the night. So, let your hair down and dance along - Galway nights are unforgettable.

Related Article : What Makes Donegal, Ireland Irresistible to Travelers

Experience the Foodie in You

Galway will spoil you with its array of dining options. The city's location on the coast means you are in for a treat if you love seafood. Think fresh oysters, delicious fish and chips, and much more.

Galway's food scene also offers cozy cafes and historic pubs that serve hearty Irish meals. Remember to dine early though, as many kitchens close by 9:30 pm.

Accommodations for Every Traveler

Finding the perfect place to stay in Galway is easy. Whether you prefer the historical charm of Eyre Square or the festive atmosphere of the Latin Quarter, you will find accommodations that suit your needs.

Keep in mind that most local hotels do not have air conditioning, which is typical in Ireland. But what they lack in AC, they make up for in character and location. Booking ahead is wise as Galway is a popular spot.

Seasons to Savor in Galway

No matter when you visit, Galway has something special to offer. Spring and fall are ideal if you prefer fewer crowds and mild weather. However, if you want to see the city at its most vibrant, plan your visit from July to October.

This is when Galway is buzzing with festivals, live events, and lots of tourists. Each season paints the city in a different light, making every visit a unique experience.
Dr. Omolola Adepoju awarded Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship

Dr. Omolola Adepoju, health services researcher and clinical associate professor at the University of Houstons Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, has been awarded a prestigious Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship to support high-caliber scholarly research and education projects at the University of Ghana Medical School.

Adepoju, who was recently named director of the Humana Integrated Health System Sciences Institute at UH, will spend three weeks in Ghana this summer.

I chose Ghana because I have deep connections there, Adepoju said. This opportunity is truly humbling as it allows me to return to my roots in an academic role in the same country where my father was born and the same institution where he graduated.

Among the projects Adepoju will work on during her visit is the development of an inter-institutional medical rotation program that will give students at the Fertitta Family College of Medicine a new and unique educational experience.

Being a Carnegie Fellow shows the Universitys commitment to global health initiatives and will help me better prepare our students to join an increasingly diverse workforce, Adepoju said. Exposing them to different healthcare systems, cultural practices and diseases that are prevalent in these regions is invaluable for producing well-rounded and culturally competent primary care physicians.

Adepoju is a world-renowned scholar and innovative researcher whose groundbreaking work focuses on health care inequities and outcomes in underserved communities and the non-medical drivers of health. She sees this fellowship as a golden opportunity to highlight the College of Medicines mission on the worlds stage.

Houston is the fourth largest and most diverse city in the U.S., Adepoju said. Building partnerships like this will enable us to collaborate on research, create joint academic programs and exchange faculty which will only raise our profile globally.

The Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program is designed to strengthen capacity at the host institutions and develop long-term, mutually beneficial collaborations between universities in Africa, the United States, and Canada. It is funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York and managed by the Institute of International Education (IIE) in collaboration with the Association of African Universities. Since the programs inception in 2013, nearly 650 African Diaspora Fellowships have been awarded for scholars to travel to African countries.
The protection of life must have all of the necessary tools to truly defeat terrorists.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated this in his nightly video address, Ukrinform reports, citing the website of the head of state.

Full text of the president's address:

Dear Ukrainians!

Today, the elimination of the consequences of Russian terrorists' attacks on the Kharkiv region continued throughout the day. Kharkiv, Lyubotyn and Derhachi were under attack by missiles, and then by guided aerial bombs. Today, among Russia's targets was one of Ukraine's largest printing facilities. A missile strike killed and wounded a number of people. Book storage and equipment were destroyed by fire. Many Ukrainian publishers had their books printed there. And this is a target for Russian terrorists. They want to burn and destroy all spheres of life. Today, there were many reactions both in Ukraine and in the world to this yet another act of Russian terror. But every time such attacks occur, destroying our cities and villages, ruining lives, burning books and everything that preserves humanity, we must openly say why this is still possible. It is only because Ukraine still has restrictions in its defense. This is a shortage of air defense systems that are actually available in the world. This is the lack of long-range capabilities for our warriors and the complete inability to destroy the very source of Russian terror near our borders, including the missile launchers that actually hit Ukraine and the lives of our people. The vast majority of the world perceives the threat of terror in the same way  people always want reliable protection from terrorists and fair punishment for their attacks against life. And every nation would perceive restrictions in the fight against terror as wrong and unfair. The protection of life must have all of the necessary tools to truly defeat terrorists. And I thank every leader who perceives this the same way as Ukrainians do, every state that genuinely supports our fight against terror. But we need more efforts, more determination  the determination of the world's leaders  to make Russian terror finally lose.

The second important thing for today. I would like to especially thank the warriors of our 110th separate mechanized brigade who destroyed a Russian Su-25. The day before  also in the Donetsk region  the warriors of our 47th separate mechanized brigade also shot down a Su-25. Thank you for your accuracy, warriors! I thank every unit, every soldier, every commander who is doing everything to give Ukraine the necessary results at the front  no matter what.

I held a meeting of the Staff. The Commander-in-Chief reported on both the Kharkiv region and the battles in the Donetsk region. We are doing everything to deter Russian assaults. There was a report by the Minister of Defense on supplies for our warriors. The Head of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine reported on the situation on our border  in Chernihiv, Sumy and Kharkiv regions. There were reports from the intelligence agencies  the Defense Intelligence and the Foreign Intelligence Service  in particular, on Russian attempts to disrupt the Peace Summit and the participation of the world's states. We are countering the Russian intention to continue and expand the war.

Today, I spoke with the President of North Macedonia and the Prime Ministers of Greece and Norway to invite them to the Peace Summit and express gratitude for confirming their attendance.

A few more things.

Our Ukrainian Marines are celebrating their Day today, and it is a day of our special respect for them. Today it was an honor for me to congratulate the warriors and recognize them with state awards.

And today I also met with the team and ambassadors of our national charitable platform United24. This is the second anniversary of its activities, and it is one of the most successful international projects of Ukraine. In two years of fundraising for the needs of Ukraine  for our Defense and Security Forces, for the protection of life in Ukraine  a total of $650 million has been raised through United24. I thank everyone in the world who has joined and who is helping. I thank everyone who stands with Ukraine!

Glory to our warriors!

Glory to Ukraine!
Ukraines Embassy has officially started work in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania.

This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ukrinform saw.

The Embassy was opened in the attendance of the Special Representative of Ukraine for the Middle East and Africa, Maksym Subh, official representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mauritania, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps accredited in the country, representatives of mass media and business circles.

As informed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during his address, Subh noted that the opening of the Ukrainian diplomatic mission in Nouakchott is evidence of Ukraine's determination to intensify cooperation with Mauritania as an important partner in the Sahel region. He provided the participants with an update on the ongoing Russian armed aggression and the efforts of the Ukrainian people and the Armed Forces of Ukraine aimed at protecting the country.

During the visit to Mauritania, the special representative met with the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mauritania, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug.

The parties discussed the development of political dialogue between Kyiv and Nouakchott, as well as ways to intensify and further develop bilateral cooperation in trade and economy, energy, agriculture, mining, information and communication technology, culture, and education.

"One of the main topics of the meeting was the discussion of the importance of Mauritania's participation in the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland on June 15-16 at the level of president, who has been the head of the African Union since February," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported.

During the meeting, Subh handed over to the head of the foreign ministry of Mauritania a personal message from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, inviting him to pay an official visit to Ukraine.

During his stay in Nouakchott, the special representative of Ukraine also met with the President of the National Assembly of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Bamba Meghette. He invited the head of the parliament of Mauritania to join the parliamentary dimension of the Crimea Platform, and also called to recognize the Holodomor of 1932-1933 as a genocide of the Ukrainian people.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on April 19, Ukraine opened an embassy in the Republic of Rwanda, in the Republic of Botswana on April 17, and in the Republic of Mozambique on April 15. On April 12, the Embassy was launched in the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, and on April 10  in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Published May 24, 2024

MONROE, LA  Dr. Nektarios Barabutis has been named Researcher of the Semester for Spring 2024 by the ULM Office of Sponsored Programs and Research (OSPR.) Dr. Barabutis is an Associate Professor of Pharmacology in the College of Pharmacy at ULM. He joined forces with the School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences in October 2017 as a tenure-track Assistant Professor.

His basic research endeavors are focused on elucidating cellular mechanisms involved in human disease in order to try to promote our understanding of disease pathogenesis and contribute to the development of new pharmacotherapies against severe disorders. Special emphasis is given to delineating the molecular network dictating endothelial barrier function since vascular leak is the hallmark of potentially lethal conditions. Based on that expertise, he was invited to participate as an ad-hoc reviewer in The Respiratory Integrative Biology and Translational Research standing study section of the National Institutes of Health.

Since joining the University of Louisiana Monroe, Dr. Barabutis has published 68 manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, including Endocrinology, American Journal of Physiology - Cell Physiology, Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism. The investigator was recently invited to submit an article to Trends in Cell Biology (Impact Factor: 19), in order to review and articulate deliberations on the topic of endothelium regulation and advanced therapeutics. He also serves as a Section Editor in Data in Brief (Elsevier) and MethodsX (Elsevier), as an Associate Editor in Frontiers in Pharmacology, and participates in the editorial board of BMC Pulmonary Medicine (Springer Nature). His research program has been continuously funded by extramural resources since 2018, and it is currently supported by the Louisiana Biomedical Research Network (NIGMS/NIH P2O GM103424-21). A full list of his publications in PubMed can be found here.

The Office of Sponsored Programs and Research commends Dr. Barabutis for the important research and work he is doing on behalf of the University of Louisiana Monroe and his impact on the world.
| By Laura Lee

As Brendan Hurson, JD 05, looked out at the crowd of black-robed graduates filling the Hippodrome Theatre, he was transported back to his own hooding ceremony at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law nearly two decades earlier.

Maryland Carey Law Dean Renee McDonald Hutchins addresses graduates at the 2024 Hooding Ceremony.

This institution has been educating lawyers for 200 years. Two hundred years, the U.S. District Court judge for the District of Maryland told the Class of 2024. Think of how long that line of graduates would stretch if they were all still here today. And in a few moments, you get to join the tail end of that line.

Founded in 1824 as the Maryland Law Institute, Maryland Carey Law was one of the first law schools in the nation.

Hurson, a 2005 graduate nominated by President Biden and confirmed in 2023, served as the keynote speaker as his alma mater celebrated its historic 200th anniversary. More than 270 degrees were conferred by University of Maryland, Baltimore President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS.

Professors Leigh Goodmark, JD; Diane Hoffmann, JD, MS; Guha Krishnamurthi, JD; Will Moon, JD; Maneka Sinha, JD; and Maureen Sweeney, JD, took turns hooding the students, helping robe the newest alumni joining that long line of graduates.

In a speech that was both humorous and thought-provoking, Hurson acknowledged that many Americans feel hopeless and lost.

Many feel like our democracy doesnt work he said.

He urged graduates to be hopeful and to remember why they chose to go to law school in the first place. Something called you to law school. Something led you to firmly believe that you can make a difference in the world as a lawyer. And whether you know it or not, as long as you still hold that belief in your heart, our democracy can never die.

Day Program class president Rebecca Wells praised 2024 graduates while echoing Hursons sentiments. I hope that as we sit in this beautiful theater, celebrating our individual and group accomplishments, that we also recognize the responsibility and privilege that comes with this degree, she said.

That after learning how to brief cases, to argue, to think and act like a lawyer, we still choose to think and act like good people, she said to thunderous applause. That we continue to recognize that everyday people are dealing with the reality that our laws are not always just, and our legal system is not always fair. And I hope that as we begin our legal careers, we keep the sense of responsibility to others that we had in law school.

Maryland Carey Law Dean Renee McDonald Hutchins, JD, commended the graduates efforts preparing for classes, studying for exams, and representing clients in clinics. You have done that all while balancing family and work and other obligations and so much more. Thank you for that hard work and diligence, she said.

And while it was a day of celebration, Hutchins humorously offered encouragement to the bicentennial graduates as they prepare for the next challenge in their law careers  the bar exam.

Sorry, guys, I had to mention it, she said with a smile. But I know that you have the wherewithal to do it. You have proven over the last three or four years that you are up to the task, and I have every confidence that every single one of you is going to accomplish exactly what you set out to do.
| By Tiffani Washington

Dozens of R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center team members, trauma survivors, and supporters traveled to the state capital on May 16 to support Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Senate President Bill Ferguson, and House Speaker Adrienne Jones as they signed a consequential bill into law expanding annual funding for Marylands renowned statewide trauma system. It will ensure access to world-class trauma care for Marylanders well into to the future.

Senate Bill 1092, sponsored by Sen. Guy Guzzone, and House Bill 1439, sponsored by Del. Emily Shetty, ensure long-term funding stability for trauma centers and the larger emergency medical services system across the state. The legislation also provides the resources necessary to continue to evolve and advance the delivery of care for trauma patients.

New funding supports hospital-based trauma centers and care providers through the Maryland Trauma Physician Services Fund, as well as the entities that constitute the core of the statewide trauma system: the Maryland State Police Aviation Command; the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems; the Senator William H. Amoss Fire, Rescue, and Ambulance Fund; the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute; and the Shock Trauma Center, which stands at the heart of Marylands coveted national model for trauma care.

Gov. Wes Moore, Senate President Bill Ferguson, and House Speaker Adrienne Jones were supported by Shock Trauma team members, survivors, and supporters as they signed Senate Bill 1092 and House Bill 1439 on May 16.

The kind of partnership we have with our state legislature and our governor doesnt exist anywhere else, said Thomas Scalea, MD, Shock Traumas Physician-In-Chief, Chief for Critical Care Services at the University of Maryland Medical System, and the Honorable Francis X. Kelly Distinguished Professor of Trauma Surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM).

Over the last several months, our Shock Trauma leadership, team members and many survivors came together in an extraordinary way to inform legislators about the need, Scalea said. We called on the Maryland General Assembly to find a path forward that would preserve our states unparalleled system for generations to come. The need was great, and our lawmakers once again stood up to say that saving lives is important to the people of Maryland.

Moores signing of this bill marks the first significant increase in funding for the statewide trauma system in nearly three decades. For Shock Trauma, Marylands only Primary Adult Resource Center, the states highest level of trauma care (above Level I), the need for additional funding had reached a critical point. As support from the Maryland Emergency Medical System Operations Fund remained relatively flat, the costs associated with meeting the renowned centers state-mandated 24-7, on-demand state of readiness has gone up exponentially.

Shock Trauma treats 6,500 critically injured patients each year, among the highest volume for any trauma center in the United States. The center serves as the backstop for Marylands entire trauma system  30 percent of Shock Traumas patients are transferred from other hospitals, with 20 percent of those transfers coming from other state-designated trauma centers. Shock Trauma leaders say one of the biggest benefits of being fully funded is that the center will have an even greater ability to receive transfers.

We are extremely proud of our unparalleled capabilities and our ability to serve the citizens of Maryland as an innovator and role model for trauma systems throughout the U.S. and the world, said Kristie Snedeker, DPT, Shock Traumas vice president. "We want to express our gratitude to Speaker Jones and Senate President Ferguson for lending their support and to Senator Guzzone and Delegate Shetty for their tireless dedication to ensuring our world-class trauma care system is preserved for the future. This historical investment will save lives.

In addition to continuing to offer an extraordinary level of dedicated, around-the-clock readiness to treat the most critically injured patients from every community across Maryland, Shock Trauma plans to expand its community outreach efforts significantly, broadening its injury prevention education initiatives, such as safe driving and fall prevention, and further expanding its free Stop the Bleed training with an ambitious goal of reaching every Marylander with these lifesaving skills. The center also will continue to bolster its trauma survivor support services, working to ensuring seamless engagement with community resources post-discharge.

I want to add my appreciation to our legislators, Governor Moore and the citizens of Maryland, said Bert W. OMalley, MD, president and CEO of the University of Maryland Medical Center. Thank you for standing up for all Marylanders and not taking the finest trauma care system in the world for granted. While no one ever expects to end up in Shock Trauma, we are all incredibly fortunate that it stands in 24-7 readiness for anyone in critical need. It is a privilege to be able to fulfill our lifesaving mission every day while educating the trauma care physicians of the future.

Mark T. Gladwin, MD, who is the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor and dean, UMSOM, and vice president for medical affairs, University of Maryland, Baltimore, added: This much-needed increase in funding will enable our internationally recognized trauma surgeons and team members to continue our vital, statewide mission, where we take on the most difficult and complex cases of blood loss and tissue crushing injury, with an unparalleled 96 percent survival rate. We are grateful to Governor Moore and the General Assembly for their support of a world-class trauma center that serves a model around the world for trauma research, education, training and lifesaving patient care.

About the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center

The R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland was the first fully integrated trauma center in the world and remains at the epicenter for trauma research, patient care, and teaching, both nationally and internationally. Shock Trauma is where the golden hour concept of trauma was born and where many lifesaving practices in modern trauma medicine were pioneered. Shock Trauma also is at the heart of the Marylands unparalleled Emergency Medical Service System.

About the University of Maryland Medical Center

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) is composed of two hospital campuses in Baltimore: the 800-bed flagship institution of the 11-hospital University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) and the 200-bed UMMC Midtown Campus. Both campuses are academic medical centers for training physicians and health professionals and for pursuing research and innovation to improve health. UMMCs downtown campus is a national and regional referral center for trauma, cancer care, neurosciences, advanced cardiovascular care, and womens and childrens health and has one of the largest solid organ transplant programs in the country. All physicians on staff at the downtown campus are clinical faculty physicians of the University of Maryland School of Medicine. The UMMC Midtown Campus medical staff is predominately faculty physicians specializing in a wide spectrum of medical and surgical subspecialties, primary care for adults and children, and behavioral health. UMMC Midtown has been a teaching hospital for 140 years and is located 1 mile away from the downtown campus. For more information, visit www.umm.edu.

About the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world  with 46 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs, and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. With an operating budget of more than $1.2 billion, the School of Medicine works closely in partnership with the University of Maryland Medical Center and Medical System to provide research-intensive, academic, and clinically based care for nearly 2 million patients each year. The School of Medicine has more than $500 million in extramural funding, with most of its academic departments highly ranked among all medical schools in the nation in research funding. As one of the seven professional schools that make up the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine has a total population of nearly 9,000 faculty and staff, including 2,500 students, trainees, residents, and fellows. The School of Medicine, which ranks as the eighth highest among public medical schools in research productivity (according to the Association of American Medical Colleges profile) is an innovator in translational medicine, with 606 active patents and 52 startup companies. In the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking of the Best Medical Schools, published in 2023, the School of Medicine is ranked No. 10 among the 92 public medical schools in the U.S., and in the top 16 percent (No. 32) of all 192 public and private U.S. medical schools. The School of Medicine works locally, nationally, and globally, with research and treatment facilities in 36 countries around the world. For more information, visit medschool.umaryland.edu.

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high-quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. It partners with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, who educate the states future health care professionals. UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban, and rural communities across Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the systems anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.
| By Brittney Brookins

In a ceremony filled with joy, reflection, and a deep commitment to social justice, the University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) conferred over 300 degrees to its 2024 graduates on May 17 at the Lyric Opera House.

This years convocation highlighted the readiness of a new generation of changemakers, prepared to serve their communities with the skills and knowledge gained through quality education, meaningful mentorships, enriching fellowships, and community connections.

Graduates were excited as they entered the Lyric Baltimore and began spotting their loved ones in the audience.

University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, opened the ceremony, capturing the emotion of the moment. He attended four convocation ceremonies that day to confer degrees to excited UMB graduates, speaking to the joy and pride felt by the families and friends in the audience.

If you think back to the time when you first came to the School of Social Work, you had some ideas in mind. You wanted to help people. You wanted to help mankind. You wanted to help the oppressed. You wanted to help all of those people who needed your help. Now you can actually do it, he said.

(See photo gallery below.)

Mindful of strong views about events surrounding the conflict in Gaza impacting not only UMB, but also universities across the country, UMSSW Dean Judy L. Postmus, PhD, ACSW, addressed the issue directly with graduates.

At the School of Social Work, we believe in fostering safe and inclusive spaces for all, Postmus said. Please know that antisemitism, prejudice against Muslims, and other types of hate and discrimination will never be tolerated. In a world where the complex dynamics of diversity, equity, and inclusion are under attack, may we each be committed to addressing injustice against others, be it based on their membership in an oppressed population.

Soon after Postmus spoke, about 30 faculty members and graduates demonstrated their views, standing and turning their backs on the keynote speaker, U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, JD '67. Cardin is chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and a strong supporter of Israel. Some of the graduates held Palestinian flags as they stood. Many wore keffiyehs, a square-checked scarf worn in certain areas of the Middle East, in a show of support for Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

In his address, Cardin encouraged graduates to use their education and skills to serve others and create positive change.

This graduation is not just a celebration of academic achievement, but also a recognition of your unwavering commitment to serving others, he said. With your new degrees, you are the agents of transformation, equipped with the tools and knowledge to address some of the most pressing issues facing our communities.

As Marian Wright Edelman said, Service is the rent you pay for living. As social workers, you have chosen a career to help others  individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse, communities challenged by poverty and homelessness, neighborhoods that need your advocacy. In one word, you have chosen the career to be changemakers.



Several graduates received Student Exemplary Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions in clinical, macro, and fieldwork. Marence Edu, MSW, MPP 24, who won the Exemplary Student Macro Award, reflected on her journey, saying, My studies in social work have equipped me with empathy, effective communication skills, critical thinking, and a profound understanding of cultural humility. Ive learned to advocate for marginalized populations, navigate complex social systems, and implement various intervention strategies to support those in need.

Edu is a dual masters degree graduate in social work and public policy. Currently, she is an intern at Catholic Relief Services for her advanced year and works as a program specialist in the Youth Program Division at the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs in the U.S. Department of State.

Im grateful for the supportive cohort that has facilitated our collective learning journey, encouraging us to challenge assumptions and promote inclusivity and respect," Edu said. I feel prepared to embark on my journey, aiming to serve the refugee community as a refugee officer and eventually pursue a career in foreign service.



Andre Bisimwa, MSW 24, recipient of the Exemplary Macro Field Practicum Award, developed a peer-to-peer mentor program in the Kinship Center at the Baltimore City Department of Social Services. He also engaged with legislators in Annapolis, advocating on issues from education to foster care.

My experience at UMSSW has taught me the importance of policy work and direct service, Bisimwa said. Ive seen firsthand how legislative advocacy can complement on-the-ground efforts to bring about meaningful change.

Bisimwa had the privilege of working closely with the assistant deputy director of the Baltimore City Department of Social Services during his final year, which inspired his desire to impact change through legislation and be in leadership positions where he can make life easier for social workers.

Associate Dean of Student Affairs Dawn Shafer, PhD, LCSW-C, MSW, praised Bisimwas efforts, noting his partnership with UMB police to bring services to unhoused people in Baltimore. In recognition of his dedication, Andre received the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Award for designing and implementing a fundraiser that generated substantial financial resources and distributed winter care packages to unhoused folks, she said.

Samantha Wypych, MSW 24, another dual-degree graduate pursuing social work and public policy, highlighted the support she received from the Child Welfare Fellowship program.

I was in the Child Welfare Fellowship program, which guided me through my degree and prepared me to work in the field. Soon, Ill be working with the Department of Social Services. My goal is to start with clinical work, working hands-on with clients. Then, Id like to transition to policymaking to adjust policies based on the challenges and needs we actually see in the community, she said.

The ceremony also honored the memory of Donta Herbert, a student who passed away before completing his degree. Herberts sister, Dashawn Herbert-Williams, MSW 24, accepted Dontas posthumous certificate on his behalf, with Postmus highlighting Herberts dedication to helping others through his work in child welfare.

His dedication to helping others was evident during his initial foundation placement at Montgomery County Health and Human Services in the child welfare division and at his advanced placement at Cornerstone, Montgomery. Dante was committed and well on his way to being a true changemaker, Postmus said.

Among the many highlights of the ceremony was the graduation of the first Fellowship for School-Based Mental Health cohort. Last year, UMSSW held a news conference to announce the launch of this fellowship, which is part of the Center for Restorative Change. The program aims to address the shortage of mental health providers in high-need K-12 school districts in Central Maryland.

The program offers tuition scholarships, additional stipends, and other incentives to MSW and BSW fellows, with a focus on enhancing diversity in social work. In collaboration with Coppin State University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, the center recruits, trains, and develops 105 social work students per year. These students mirror the diverse backgrounds of those in UMSSWs partner schools, ensuring an inclusive approach to mental health service provision.

Bianca Collins, MSW 24, a UMSSW fellowship student who shared her thoughts about the program with The Baltimore Banner last October, said, This fellowship has not only provided financial support but has also given me the tools and confidence to make a real difference in our schools. I am excited to be part of this pioneering group, ready to bring much-needed mental health services to our communities.

The graduates, having completed their rigorous training and education, are now prepared to step into their roles as social work professionals, ready to make a meaningful impact on their communities.

Darreisha Brock-Orsot, MSW 24, the student convocation speaker, encapsulated the spirit of the day, sharing: The world awaits us, and I have no doubt that together we can leave an indefinite mark on the world with one act of kindness, one advocacy campaign, and one life transformed at a time.
In recent months, universities across the United States have found themselves at the center of a contentious debate over how to address pro-Palestinian protests on campus.

Northwestern University President Michael Schill and Rutgers University President Jonathan Holloway, among others, have faced scrutiny for their handling of these protests, particularly regarding allegations of antisemitism and the use of police force.

Negotiation Over Confrontation: University Presidents' Approach

One of the central issues at play is the approach taken by university presidents in dealing with these protests. Both Schill and Holloway have defended their decisions to engage in negotiations rather than resorting to police force to dismantle pro-Palestinian encampments on their campuses.

Schill emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of students and faculty, stating, "We had to get the encampment down." Schill explained that using the police to ensure safety was not a viable option for them. Likewise, Holloway emphasized the importance of engaging students in dialogue as their primary approach rather than resorting to police intervention.

By choosing negotiation over confrontation, these university presidents aimed to defuse tensions and find peaceful resolutions to complex and sensitive issues. However, their decisions have not been without controversy, with some critics accusing them of caving in to antisemitic demands.

READ MORE : University Leaders Testify Before House Committee On Antisemitic Incidents, Campus Protests

Criticism and Controversy: Balancing Free Speech and Safety

The handling of pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses has raised questions about the delicate balance between protecting free speech and ensuring the safety of students and faculty. University leaders are tasked with upholding the principles of academic freedom and free expression, even when faced with challenging and controversial viewpoints.

Gene Block, the chancellor of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), pointed out the difficulties that public universities encounter when dealing with these matters. He explained that public universities are in a challenging position as they strive to protect students from discrimination while also preserving freedom of speech.

Block's comments underscore the complexities involved in addressing protests that touch on deeply held beliefs and political sensitivities. While universities are committed to fostering an environment of open dialogue and diverse perspectives, they must also ensure the safety and well-being of their campus communities.

Moving Forward: Lessons Learned and Paths Ahead

As universities reflect on their handling of pro-Palestinian protests, there are lessons to be learned and paths forward to be considered. The use of negotiations as a tool to address contentious issues has proven effective in some cases, but questions remain about the long-term implications of these decisions.

Schill and Holloway's testimonies before the House Education and the Workforce Committee shed light on the complexities of addressing pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses. While their decisions may have been met with criticism, they highlight the importance of engaging in dialogue and seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Universities must continue to uphold the principles of free speech and academic freedom while also ensuring the safety and well-being of their campus communities. By navigating these challenges with care and sensitivity, university leaders can help foster an environment that promotes open dialogue and mutual understanding.
A former professor and interim provost of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Matthew Queen, was arraigned on Tuesday on federal charges of falsification of records.

The charges come in the midst of an ongoing federal investigation into possible widespread cover-ups of sexual abuse within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) and its entities.

Allegations and Investigation

Since around 2022, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York (referred to as the 'U.S. Attorney's Office') and the FBI have been probing claims of sexual abuse and wrongdoing linked to the SBC and its associated organizations. These investigations have also looked into the alleged cover-up of such allegations by individuals and entities associated with the denomination.

In 2022, an independent investigations firm, Guidepost Solutions, reported that leaders within the SBC had, over many years, viewed survivors of sexual abuse as adversaries of the church. They also refused to accept responsibility for the actions of local churches and minimized the prevalence of sexual abuse cases within those churches, all in an effort to safeguard the institution. This information was reported by the Religion News Service (RNS).

While SBC leaders said in 2022 that they had been subpoenaed by the DOJ, the indictment of Queen this week is the DOJ's first official acknowledgment that it has been investigating the SBC, according to RNS.

During its investigation, the FBI requested Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, to provide any documents concerning abuse in October 2022, as stated by the DOJ. One month later, a seminary staff member (identified as "Employee-1" by the DOJ) was informed of an allegation of sexual abuse involving a seminary student. Although the employee reported the matter to campus police, they did not inform the FBI, and the institution did not take any additional steps.

In January 2023, "Employee-1" drafted a document detailing the sexual abuse allegations and the seminary's failure to address them. However, in a later meeting with "Employee-2" and Queen, "Employee-2" instructed "Employee-1" to discard the document.

When Queen met with the U.S. Attorney's Office and the FBI in May 2023, he allegedly falsely claimed that he was unaware of "Employee-2" instructing "Employee-1" to destroy the document, as per the DOJ.

READ MORE : UC Berkeley Investigates Law Professor For Alleged Harassment Of Muslim Student

Legal Ramifications and Response

If found guilty, Queen may be sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in prison. According to U.S. Attorney Damian Williams of the Southern District of New York, Queen is accused of trying to obstruct a federal grand jury investigation by fabricating notes to support his falsehoods. Williams stated that the criminal obstruction charge is intended to demonstrate the gravity of attempts to influence or hinder a federal investigation.

Following the seminary's discovery of Queen's actions in June 2023, he was promptly placed on administrative leave and subsequently resigned as interim provost. The institution stated that all employees implicated in the misconduct are no longer working at the seminary.

The indictment of Queen and the broader investigation into the SBC have sparked debate and concern within the denomination and beyond. Some see it as a necessary step toward accountability and justice for survivors of sexual abuse within the church. Others worry about the potential implications for the SBC as a whole and its ability to fulfill its mission in the midst of legal challenges and public scrutiny.

Implications for the Southern Baptist Convention

The case involving Queen is just one part of a larger reckoning within the SBC regarding its handling of sexual abuse allegations. The denomination has faced criticism for its response to abuse cases in the past. Some have accused SBC leaders of prioritizing the reputation of the church over the well-being of abuse survivors.

The outcome of the federal investigation could have significant implications for the SBC and its future. Depending on the findings, the denomination may need to implement reforms to address issues related to transparency, accountability, and support for abuse survivors.

The arraignment of Matthew Queen on federal charges related to the falsification of records in a sexual abuse investigation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Southern Baptist Convention and its entities. It also underscores the importance of addressing issues of abuse and misconduct within religious institutions with transparency, accountability, and a commitment to justice for survivors.
In a significant move towards equity and fairness in college admissions, California's state assembly voted unanimously on Tuesday to pass a bill that would ban legacy preferences at both public and private colleges in the state. This landmark decision marks a step forward in addressing longstanding concerns about preferential treatment based on family connections rather than merit.

The Push for Equity: Understanding Legacy Preferences

Legacy preferences in college admissions refer to the practice of giving preferential treatment to applicants who have family members, typically parents or grandparents, who attended the same institution. Supporters of legacy preferences argue that they help foster a sense of community and tradition within colleges, as well as encourage alumni to stay engaged with their alma maters.

However, critics contend that legacy preferences perpetuate inequality by giving an unfair advantage to students from wealthier and predominantly white backgrounds. Studies have shown that legacy applicants are more likely to be admitted and to come from higher-income families than non-legacy applicants. This practice can further exacerbate existing disparities in access to higher education.

READ MORE : Ending Of Legacy Admissions In California Higher Education Proposed Amidst Equity Concerns

California Leads the Way: The Implications of the Bill

If Governor Gavin Newsom signs the bill into law, California will be the second state, after Maryland earlier this month, to prohibit legacy admissions at both public and private colleges. This move would also make California the fourth state to ban legacy preferences at public colleges, joining Colorado and Virginia.

The implications of this bill are significant, particularly for prestigious institutions such as the University of Southern California and Stanford University, which both admit high proportions of legacy students. In 2022, Stanford's class was over 13 percent legacy, while USC's was 14 percent. Banning legacy preferences would require these institutions to evaluate applicants based solely on their academic and personal merits rather than their family ties.

Challenges and Opposition: The Road Ahead

While the passage of this bill is a promising development, it is not without its challenges. Similar efforts to ban legacy preferences have faced opposition from higher education lobbying groups and other stakeholders. In 2019, a legacy ban bill was proposed in California in the wake of the Varsity Blues scandal, but it was ultimately watered down to require only colleges publicly disclose their legacy demographics.

In Connecticut, hopes for a similar ban were recently dashed when the state Senate amended the bill to a transparency mandate modeled on California's current requirements. This demonstrates the complex nature of the issue and the need for careful consideration of the implications of banning legacy preferences.

The Future of College Admissions

The passage of this bill in California reflects a growing recognition of the need to reform college admissions practices to promote equity and fairness. While legacy preferences have long been a contentious issue, their elimination could pave the way for a more inclusive and merit-based admissions process.

Moving forward, it will be important for other states to consider similar measures to address the inequities inherent in legacy admissions. By prioritizing merit and diversity in college admissions, states can ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve their full potential.
Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker recently delivered a commencement speech at Benedictine College that has ignited a fierce debate. Butker's remarks, which touched on topics such as gender roles and Catholic values, have sparked widespread discussion and criticism.

The Speech That Stirred the Pot

In his commencement address, Butker touched on several controversial topics, including his belief that being a homemaker is the highest calling for a woman. He also criticized Catholics who support abortion rights, COVID-19 lockdowns, and what he termed "dangerous gender ideologies."

Butker's comments have drawn criticism from a wide range of individuals, including professional athletes, celebrities, pundits, and even some of the graduates themselves. Some have praised Butker for speaking his mind, while others have condemned his remarks as out of touch and offensive.

READ MORE : GAO Report Finds Gender Disparity Persists In College Athletic Participation Despite Increased Female Enrollment

Reactions and Responses

The reaction to Butker's speech has been mixed. While he received a standing ovation at the ceremony, some graduates, such as Susannah Leisegang, expressed their disapproval. Leisegang, who booed during the speech, noted that many of the men in attendance were supportive of Butker's views, while many of the women were not.

Kassidy Neuner, another graduate, found Butker's comments to be degrading, pointing out that men can also be homemakers. She highlighted the fact that many women do not have the financial option to stay at home, and that suggesting otherwise is classist and racist.

However, not all of the graduates were critical of Butker's speech. ValerieAnne Volpe praised Butker for delivering a message that she believes many people are afraid to say. She noted that her father, who was in the audience during the speech, was supportive of Butker's views on family values.

A Larger Debate

The controversy surrounding Butker's speech reflects larger debates within the Catholic Church and Catholic higher education. Patricia McGuire, president of Trinity Washington University, expressed her dismay at Butker's remarks, noting that they do not reflect the views of all Catholics or Catholic institutions.

McGuire pointed out that many Catholic colleges and universities were founded by nuns, who historically served as trustees, administrators, and faculty members. She argued that Butker's comments were insulting to working women, including those who helped build Catholic institutions.

Massimo Faggioli, a professor of theology and religious studies at Villanova University, also expressed surprise at Butker's selection as a commencement speaker. He noted that while Benedictine College is known for its conservative views, Butker's speech was not representative of the ideological nuance that exists on campus.

Faggioli suggested that the controversy should serve as a lesson to other colleges and universities about the potential pitfalls of inviting controversial speakers to campus events. He argued that such choices can end up making the institution appear one-dimensional and can alienate members of the community who do not share the speaker's views.

The controversy over Harrison Butker's commencement speech at Benedictine College has highlighted the ongoing debates within the Catholic Church and Catholic higher education. While some have praised Butker for speaking his mind, others have condemned his remarks as offensive and out of touch.

The reaction to Butker's speech underscores the diversity of opinions within the Catholic community, as well as the challenges faced by institutions seeking to uphold Catholic values while also embracing modernity. As these debates continue, it is clear that the issue of gender roles and Catholic values will remain a topic of intense discussion and debate for the foreseeable future.
In higher education, data serves as a compass, guiding institutions and policymakers in understanding and addressing the needs of diverse student populations. However, for Indigenous students, historical underrepresentation in data has obscured their experiences and hindered effective support mechanisms.

Recognizing the critical role of data equity, the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) recently released a research brief shedding light on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the representation of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) learners in postsecondary education.

Challenges in Data Collection: Unveiling the Layers of Underrepresentation

Historical Context and Federal Standards

Historically, Indigenous students have been marginalized in data collection efforts, largely due to federal standards and outdated categorization practices. The Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) racial classification standards, until recently, narrowly defined AI/AN individuals, overlooking the diverse tribal affiliations and nuanced identities within Indigenous communities. This limited classification not only misrepresented Indigenous students but also hindered the development of tailored support systems.

Lack of Disaggregation and Cultural Consideration

One of the fundamental challenges in data collection lies in the lack of disaggregation and cultural consideration. Postsecondary datasets often fail to capture the multifaceted identities and experiences of Indigenous students, lumping them into broad categories that obscure their distinct needs and challenges. Moreover, traditional survey methodologies often overlook indigenous ways of knowledge, leading to inaccurate depictions and low response rates.

Barriers to Self-Identification and Verification

While self-identification offers a pathway for Indigenous students to assert their identities, it also poses challenges in ensuring accurate representation. Without proper verification mechanisms, non-Indigenous individuals may misrepresent themselves, further complicating data accuracy. Moreover, the requirement for tribal enrollment verification can act as a barrier for Indigenous students who lack documentation or cultural affiliation, perpetuating their invisibility in data landscapes.

READ MORE : Leveraging Social Finance To Support Under-Represented Students In Higher Education

Opportunities for Improvement: Strategies for Enhanced Representation

Collaboration and Community Engagement

Central to improving Indigenous student representation is fostering collaboration and community engagement. Establishing partnerships with tribal communities and Indigenous researchers can inform culturally relevant data collection strategies and ensure that data accurately reflect the diversity of Indigenous experiences. By involving stakeholders in the process, institutions can address gaps in data collection and develop targeted interventions that support Indigenous student success.

Enhanced Collection and Reporting Practices

To enhance Indigenous student representation, stakeholders must prioritize improved collection and reporting practices. This entails oversampling AI/AN students to ensure adequate representation and stratifying data across tribes to capture the diversity of experiences. Additionally, clear documentation of data collection challenges is essential for acknowledging limitations and avoiding the erasure of Indigenous voices in higher education narratives.

Creating Comprehensive Data Sets

Building comprehensive data sets that include information on tribal affiliation is crucial for disaggregating student experiences and identifying areas for targeted interventions. By examining the intersection of tribal identity with academic outcomes and support services, institutions can tailor their efforts to meet the unique needs of Indigenous students. Moreover, deeper data sets facilitate informed decision-making and policy development, driving meaningful change in higher education.

Advancing Equity Through Inclusive Data Practices

As higher education institutions strive to foster inclusivity and equity, prioritizing Indigenous student representation in data collection is paramount. By acknowledging historical inequities and embracing collaborative approaches, stakeholders can work towards a more inclusive data landscape that accurately reflects the diversity of student experiences. Enhanced collection practices, coupled with community engagement and targeted interventions, hold the key to advancing equity and empowering Indigenous students on their educational journey. In embracing the imperative of data equity, higher education can pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
The Republic of Koreas Ambassador to Pakistan, Park Kijun Friday called on Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan and discussed strategize on boosting bilateral trade and investment

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) The Republic of Koreas Ambassador to Pakistan, Park Kijun Friday called on Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan and discussed strategize on boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Jam Kamal Khan extended an open invitation to Korean companies, urging them to explore and invest in Pakistans commercial and strategic projects.

He emphasized that over the past three months, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's top priorities have focused on enhancing business connectivity and simplifying the process of doing business in Pakistan, said a press release issued here.

He briefed the Korean envoy on government's proactive measures in stabilizing the economy, which he believes are making Pakistan an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investment.

Ambassador Park Kijun expressed a strong desire to collaborate closely with Pakistan to enhance trade volumes and explore new business opportunities.

Minister Khan assured the ambassador that the government stands ready to promptly resolve any problems to ensure smooth and efficient operations for foreign businesses in Pakistan.

Additionally, Jam Kamal Khan invited Korean investors to capitalize on upcoming privatization opportunities within various government departments.

This move aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of increasing private sector involvement in the economy to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Key sectors highlighted for potential investment included energy, port and shipping, fisheries, and agricultureareas deemed critical for Pakistan's economic development and offering substantial opportunities for international investors.

During the meeting, the minister also briefed the ambassador on the successful holding of the recent Saudi Arabia-Pakistan Investment Forum 2024 which was attended by the top investors from Saudi Arabia.

He informed the ambassador that Pakistan can organise a similar match-making event for the big Korean conglomerates and investors wishing to invest in Pakistan.

In conclusion, Jam Kamal Khan reiterated the government's commitment to making business operations in Pakistan more accessible and reliable.

He expressed optimism Pakistan is now progressing towards a phase of prosperity and growth.

Each passing month, he noted, brings new opportunities and a more favourable business climate.
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The Mining and Mineral sectors have been on the priority list of Special Investment Facilitation Council and a significant headway has also been achieved in this sector.

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-May 24th, 2024) Prime Minister Shehbaz has invited Chinese firm MCC Tongsin Resources to make investment in Mining sector of Pakistan and assured provision of all-out facilitation in this connection.

The Mining and Mineral sectors have been on the priority list of Special Investment Facilitation Council and a significant headway has also been achieved in this sector.

The Chinese firm MCC Tongsin Resources is a research and investment company and a part of Metallurgical Group Corporation, which has been enlisted among the major Metallurgical Construction Contractors of the world.

The Chinese company expressed keen interest in enhancing its investment in Pakistans mining and minerals sectors and also briefed the Prime Minister about its plans for investment in Mining sector of Pakistan.

The visit of the Chinese company to Pakistan is aimed at cementing ties between China and Pakistan and to assure that Pakistan would ensure security of Chinese nationals, working on different development projects.

China has so far made investment of more than sixty-five billion Dollars in energy and infrastructure projects in Pakistan under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday underlined the need to improve the regulatory framework for medical education in Pakistan, besides establishing a coordination mechanism between medical institutions, and the public and private sectors to ensure uniform high-quality education

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday underlined the need to improve the regulatory framework for medical education in Pakistan, besides establishing a coordination mechanism between medical institutions, and the public and private sectors to ensure uniform high-quality education.

He was chairing the first meeting of the Committee on Medical Education that was constituted by the prime minister earlier this week on May 20.

The deputy prime minister emphasized the important responsibility of the committee to address the gaps in medical education in the country.

Highlighting the importance of nurturing a conducive environment for medical students to excel and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector, Ishaq Dar stressed that the world-class quality of medical education should be ensured in all the provinces.

The committee conducted a comprehensive review of the country's medical education system, fee structure, and identified key areas for improvement and development of a strategic plan to align medical education with international standards.

It specifically focused on devising a plan to solve the issues faced by Pakistani medical students studying abroad. It also discussed strategies to support and empower medical students in their academic and professional endeavours.

The meeting was attended by the Minister for Law and Justice, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Health, Secretary Health, the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission and Chairman Higher Education Commission, MNA Dr Nafeesa Shah, heads of prominent public and private medical institutions, and eminent experts from the medical community.

The committee members include key stakeholders from the medical community, the education sector, and government officials. It aims to reform the medical education across the country. This initiative underscores the governments commitment to improve healthcare standards and ensure the highest quality of medical training for future generations of healthcare professionals.

After a detailed discussion in the meeting, a sub-executive committee was constituted with Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad, National Coordinator for Health as Convener and Tariq Bajwa as Co-Convener.

The sub-committee will deliberate on the existing terms of reference (ToRs) along with additional tasks including synergies among regulatory bodies, streamlining procedures for foreign students in Pakistan and the uniformity in curricula.

The committee will prepare its report with the objective to ensure that medical graduates in Pakistan are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to meet contemporary healthcare challenges and to provide the highest level of care to all Pakistani nationals.

This initiative is part of the governments continuing efforts to elevate the standards of healthcare services in Pakistan and to prepare medical professionals to effectively serve in both domestic and global healthcare.
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ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) Minister for Energy, Awais Ahmad Leghari on Friday reiterated the Federal governments commitment to fund the solarization of agricultural tube wells in Balochistan.

In response to a calling attention notice regarding the limited electricity supply to agricultural tube wells by the Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), which provides only three hours of electricity per day, he said that once the Balochistan government formulated a mechanism for the distribution of funds to consumers, the federal government would be implementing the solarization initiative.

He highlighted that approximately 12,000 illegal transformers were operating on 404 feeders in Balochistan, with 96 percent of these feeders running at a loss.

There was an outstanding amount of over Rs 640 billion owed by various entities, including agricultural tube wells, in the province, he added.

The minister called on Senators and Members of the National Assembly to assist in combating power theft.

He assured strict action against officials involved in overbilling and guiding consumers how to steal electricity.

The minister acknowledged that distribution companies were not managed professionally in the past and admitted that their officers were involved in illegally activities.

He explained that Balochistan incurred a loss of Rs 80 billion due to the provision of six hours of electricity.

The minister mentioned a positive meeting with the Chief Minister of Balochistan, who assured cooperation with law enforcement agencies to remove illegal transformers across the province.

Quoting the example of the Mardan feeder, Leghari noted that after the implementation of law enforcement measures, there was a 24-hour electricity supply.

He stressed that due to electricity theft and lack of enforcement, even his own tribal area received only two hours of electricity, and he did not use his ministerial position to ensure a 24-hour supply to these areas.

The minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to addressing these issues and improving the electricity supply for agricultural purposes in Balochistan.

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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Friday said that despite the difficult financial situation, the provincial government prepared an excellent and public welfare budget 2024-25 according to the party vision

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Friday said that despite the difficult financial situation, the provincial government prepared an excellent and public welfare budget 2024-25 according to the party vision.

"We have presented a surplus budget of 100 billion rupees," he said and appreciated the role of all the departments especially the finance and planning department in the regard.

The CM said that everyone has to work together to implement the public welfare and corrective measures included in the budget, all departments in this regard.

He emphasized on ensuring progress within stipulated time adding the budget was prepared after hectic efforts much and determination and hoped its implementation in letter and spirit by all the stakeholders.

Gandapur said that special attention was paid to increasing the revenue of the province and improving the efficiency of the departments.

For this purpose he said the throw-forward of the annual development program was reduced from 13 years to six years which he said was great achievement of the provincial government.

He said this initiative would enable development projects to be completed within the stipulated time.

The Chief Minister further said that attention was also given to improving the governance, to bring forward the sectors which were left behind due to any reason.

"we are introducing such reforms that will prove better for the province and future generations.," he noted. He said the provincial taxes imposed on transfers of properties were reduced and expected same from the Federal government.

He said that in the new provincial budget, measures had been proposed to keep the tax rate low while increasing the tax net.

The Chief Minister said that he would spend considerable funds from his own resources on the development of the merged districts. He vowed to gradually use all the available legal options to collect the outstanding dues from the federal government under different heads.
Armenia has returned to Azerbaijan four border villages it had seized decades ago, officials in Yerevan and Baku confirmed Friday, in a key step towards normalising ties between the historic rivals

Yerevan, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) Armenia has returned to Azerbaijan four border villages it had seized decades ago, officials in Yerevan and Baku confirmed Friday, in a key step towards normalising ties between the historic rivals.

The two ex-Soviet countries in the Caucasus fought two wars in the 1990s and in 2020 for control of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azerbaijan recaptured it last year in a lightning offensive, ending three decades of Armenian separatist rule and prompting more than 100,000 locals to flee into Armenia.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had agreed in March to return the four abandoned villages seized by his country in the 1990s, as part of efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement between the countries.

On May 16, they agreed on the demarcation of 12.7 kilometres (almost seven miles) of their border that returned the villages of Baghanis Ayrum, Ashaghi Askipara, Kheyrimli and Ghizilhajili to Azerbaijan.

Armenia's security service confirmed Friday that its border guards had "officially" taken up new positions reflecting the border deal and ceded the villages to Azerbaijan's control.

Azerbaijan's Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev meanwhile announced that his country's border guards had taken control of the four settlements.

Armenian residents of nearby settlements say the move could cut them off from the rest of the country and accuse Pashinyan of unilaterally giving away territory without any guarantees in return.

The premier's move has sparked weeks of anti-government protests in Armenia, with thousands of demonstrators led by charismatic cleric Bagrat Galstanyan demanding Pashinyan's resignation.

A fresh anti-government protest is scheduled for Sunday.

Pashinyan last week described the deal as a "very important milestone for further strengthening Armenia's sovereignty and independence."

The territory is of strategic importance for landlocked Armenia because it controls sections of a vital highway to Georgia.
Washington, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) A diplomatic upgrade and a surprise appearance by Barack Obama: US President Joe Biden pulled out the stops as he hosted Kenyan counterpart William Ruto for a lavish state visit aimed at competing with Russia and China for influence in Africa.

At a gala dinner in a large pavilion set up on the White House lawn, Biden praised "the belief in freedom, democracy, dignity and equality" that he shared with Ruto, the first African leader to receive a Washington state visit in 15 years.

Biden matched pomp with a string of deals on security, climate and debt -- and delivered an Irish-inspired toast in honor of his guest.

"Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand," Biden said.

For his part, Ruto praised the "enduring bonds of friendship, partnership and solidarity between Kenya and the United States."

Former president Barack Obama, whose father was Kenyan, made a brief surprise appearance at the start of the gala, where 500 guests dined on beef and lobster and enjoyed performances by a gospel choir and country star Brad Paisley.

- 'A strong and committed friend' -

Earlier in the day, Biden announced a plan to make Kenya the first major non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, saying it was the "fulfillment of years of collaboration" against militants in Somalia.

The move will see Kenya join 18 other such allies including Israel, Brazil and Ukraine, boosting military and diplomatic links, although without a formal security pact.

Biden also thanked Kenya for agreeing to lead an upcoming international police mission to Haiti, where months of gang violence have left the tiny Caribbean nation on America's doorstep in a political and humanitarian crisis.

Ruto said that "in Joe Biden, Kenya and Africa have a strong and committed friend."

- Back foot -

The Kenyan president's visit comes as the United States and ally France are on the back foot in Africa, where massive Chinese investments and aggressive use by Russia of shadowy paramilitary groups are changing the geopolitical balance.

Biden and Ruto repeatedly stressed common "democratic values" and their desire to share leadership on issues of climate change, political instability and debt distress.

The two leaders also issued a "joint vision statement" on reducing the mounting debts of developing countries and the handicap it represents for African countries trying to grow their economies.

The 81-year-old US president further welcomed Ruto's "mutual support" for Ukraine, which is one of the current 18 non-NATO allies and is receiving Western military aid as it battles Russia's invasion.

- Symbolism -

But as with any state visit to the White House -- Biden has hosted the leaders of Japan and Australia in the last eight months alone -- the symbolism was as important as the deliverables.

The two leaders posed with US First Lady Jill Biden and Ruto's wife Rachel on the White House balcony, strolled through the famed colonnades and shook hands ahead of their talks in the Oval Office.

Biden held a major summit for African leaders in 2022, but he has not made good on promises to visit the continent as president.

The Democrat, who faces a tight rematch against Donald Trump in November's US presidential election, quipped on Wednesday when Ruto arrived that "I plan on going in February after I'm reelected."

Africa has often been on the back burner for US diplomats but the continent now presents a growing headache in Washington.

Russia has established new footholds -- most recently in Niger, where the United States has agreed to withdraw its 1,000 troops, while Russian troops come in.

The United States also faces competition from China, which has pumped billions in infrastructure money into Africa for the past two decades.

Ruto's White House visit meanwhile represents a major turnaround for the Kenyan, who was previously accused by the International Criminal Court of crimes against humanity over violence after Kenya's 2007-8 election.

The case was dropped after the prosecutor complained of a campaign of witness intimidation.
Zimbabwe, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) Chinese firm Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), together with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, held a cultural exchange event Thursday to mark Africa Day, which is commemorated annually on May 25.

Guests were feted with various cultural performances from China and Zimbabwe, including Chinese martial arts, Zimbabwean traditional dance, music, and poetry, at the event in a school in Goromonzi, a rural community in the East Mashonaland Province.

Traditional leadership, local government representatives, Chinese and local PLZ staff, and local school children attended the event.

Sheila Zvakurumbira, acting district development officer in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, welcomed Chinese guests to the cultural exchange event, which showcased Zimbabwe's diverse cultural heritage.

"Today we were doing cultural exchange programs with the Chinese, and it is of paramount importance because it has strengthened the relationship between the Chinese and the Zimbabweans," she told Xinhua.

Zimbabweans are keen to learn Chinese culture and share key aspects of the local cultural heritage with their Chinese friends, Zvakurumbira said.

David Nkanka, a student from the University of Zimbabwe, said the event is a testament to the cordial Zimbabwe-China relations.

"Unity is a very important aspect, and through these performances, we have seen unity being enhanced between China and Zimbabwe," Nkanka told Xinhua.

School children had an opportunity to experience Chinese calligraphy, painting, and tea at the cultural event.

"Today was my first time drinking Chinese tea," said 16-year-old Belle Enesi, a high school student. "It was tasteful, and I was happy because that was the first time in my life."

Africa Day, a public holiday in Zimbabwe, is observed annually to celebrate the achievements of the Organization of African Unity, the predecessor of the African Union, from its creation on May 25, 1963.

PLZ, a subsidiary of China's Huayou Cobalt, has invested in social development programs in the Goromonzi area.
United Nations, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) The world cannot look to UN peacekeepers as a way of stopping wars, whether in Gaza or other active conflict zones, the department chief told AFP, citing the famous Blue Helmets' inherent limitations.

A mission in the occupied Palestinian territories, for example, is only "very, very, very hypothetical," Under Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix said.

The Arab League has called for such a deployment.

But Lacroix said all the basic conditions are missing: a ceasefire, an agreement from warring sides to accept UN troops, and authorization from a deeply divided UN Security Council.

UN Security Council members France and Russia are among those also discussing a role for UN peacekeepers in Gaza, once Israel's military operation to destroy the Hamas group winds down.

The idea would be to send troops through an existing UN peacekeeping operation for the middle East, known as UNTSO, which was set up in 1948 and still has a small, unarmed contingent deployed in Lebanon.

This likewise seems highly speculative, not least because UNTSO is not armed.

"Peacekeeping has its limits," Lacroix said. And "imposing peace" is not part of the UN troops' mandate.

UN peacekeeping missions have faced criticism, particularly in African deployments, of failing to do enough to protect against armed extremists.

Lacroix said the world body, which will celebrate its annual International Day of Blue Helmets on May 29, "of course needs to keep adapting."

But turning the UN troops -- trained soldiers who differentiate themselves from warring forces by wearing the UN's pale blue helmets -- into a war-fighting body is "not realistic or desirable."

"Imposing peace is... a synonym for waging war. Many states in the Security Council would be opposed to that," Lacroix said.
Singapore, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2024) Singaporean investigators are analysing a cockpit voice recorder and a flight data recorder after one passenger died and more than 100 were injured when a Singapore Airlines plane hit severe turbulence this week, the country's transport minister said on Friday.

Passengers and crew aboard flight SQ321 suffered skull, brain and spine injuries when they were thrown violently around the cabin during Tuesday's terrifying high-altitude ordeal.

The London-to-Singapore flight carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok, where at least 48 people are still being treated in hospital.

Flight tracking data shows the Boeing 777-300ER plunged 1,800 metres (6,000 feet) in just a few minutes, with passengers saying it happened so suddenly there was no time for many to fasten their seatbelts.

"We have a team that went to Bangkok and they have obtained the data from the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder," Singapore's Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat said in a statement.

"They are going through the data from these two recorders now to be able to ascertain what happened during those moments. So, we await investigation findings to understand what happened during that time."

Singapore Airlines said earlier on Friday it has tightened seatbelt rules on its flights after the incident and that it has introduced a "more cautious approach" to turbulence.

"In addition to the suspension of hot beverage service when the seat belt sign is on, the meal service will also be suspended," it said in a statement to AFP.

"SIA will continue to review our processes as the safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance."

Investigators from the United States have also travelled to Thailand to investigate the cause of the incident.

Air safety experts have told AFP that passengers are often too casual about wearing seatbelts, leaving them at risk if the plane hits unexpected turbulence.

Scientists also warn that so-called clear air turbulence, which is invisible to radar, is getting worse because of climate change.

The director of Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin hospital, where most of the injured have been treated, said his staff had never treated such severe injuries caused by turbulence.

Australian passenger Keith Davis described the ordeal, which left his wife Kerry with a severe spinal injury and no feeling below the waist.

"It was absolute carnage, instantly. It was absolutely surreal. You know, there's no warning," he told Australian broadcaster Channel 9.

"Before we knew it we were on the ceiling. And then bang, we're on the ground. And you don't know what is going on. And you've literally fallen 6,000 feet (1,829 metres)."

Davis said his wife hit the doors of the overhead luggage lockers before falling to the floor of the aisle and was unable to move for the rest of the flight.

The plane was met at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport by emergency responders who used gurneys to ferry the injured to ambulances waiting on the tarmac.

Photos taken inside the plane after it landed in Bangkok show the cabin in chaos, strewn with food, drinks and luggage, and with oxygen masks dangling from the ceiling.

Singapore Airlines chief executive Goh Choon Phong has apologised for the "traumatic experience" and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased -- a 73-year-old British man.

burs-srg/pbt/
Sarah Lee

Students and colleagues describe University of Wyoming instructor Sarah Lee as innovative, dedicated, supportive, caring and inspiring.

These qualities as well as her creation of interactive, student-centered online learning experiences have resulted in Lee being named this years recipient of the Hollon Family Award for Online Teaching Excellence. In 1986, C.E. Jerry Hollon, a former UW trustee, established the award to recognize contributions to the general extension outreach programs of the university.

Lee has served as an assistant lecturer in the UW Department of Family and Consumer Sciences since 2021. However, she has been working to promote and expand online education at UW since the early 2000s, when she was an adjunct instructor.

Sarah has shown an exceptional ability to engage with students through innovative teaching methods in the online environment, wrote Jill Keith, head of the UW Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, in her nomination letter. She has designed engaging and interactive online courses that promote active student participation and collaboration.

Keith also noted that Lee incorporates new educational technologies into her online courses to enhance student learning. These include interactive tools and active-learning strategies, such as digital role-playing and Padlet; opportunities for personal connection and communication using Zoom breakout rooms; and feedback mechanisms, such as Google Forms.

Among the courses Lee teaches is Child Development. Last fall, she designed a version of the course for delivery to 14 women at the Wyoming Womens Center as part of UWs Wyoming Pathways from Prison initiative.

A student nominator who took Child Development at UW described his experience in his letter of support.

Although she constantly asked for feedback on her various activities and lesson formats and strived to provide us with every tool we needed to succeed, when we did, she thanked us for our determination and congratulated us on our successes while also immediately seeking to challenge and extend us that next step further, the student wrote.

The student noted that Lees support of her students is evident in and out of the classroom.

In Sarah, every student can experience what it means to be respected, challenged, fostered and cared about, the student wrote. She is who I think of when I think of the sort of educator I would like to be.

Another student nominator wrote that declaring her major was not an easy decision; however, after being in one of Lees classes, the choice became clear.

My passion for early childhood education was ignited after taking one of Sarahs classes, and she quickly became my inspiration, my role model and a dear friend, the student wrote. The trajectory of my future was completely changed after connecting with Sarah Lee, and I am forever grateful for the wisdom and passion she showed me.

To improve and enhance her online teaching, Lee has attended numerous Ellbogen Center for Teaching and Learning (ECTL) workshops and has worked with Christi Boggs, associate director of digital and inclusive teaching and learning at the ECTL.

Suffice it to say that I have rarely met an instructor as dedicated to her work. I have rarely met a person as inspirational to students, Boggs wrote in her letter of support. I believe the student experience at this university has been changed due to her dedication.

Lee earned her bachelors degree in elementary education in 1981 and her masters degree in child and family studies in 1996, both from UW.
For many students graduating with health care-focused degrees from the University of Wyoming, their pathways toward professional careers are only beginning. Being accepted into medical, dental and other professional schools is an anticipated next step, but its one that can come with many challenges.

For UW seniors pursuing health care careers, the Pre-Health Advising Office in the College of Health Sciences assists with those challenges. This spring, it has helped 17 new UW graduates gain acceptance into programs that will allow them to continue those pursuits -- and eventually return to Wyoming and practice as health care providers.

The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) program is a consortium of 15 western U.S. states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. It was established to provide affordable educational opportunities for students in the West.

WICHEs Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP) allows certified Wyoming residents to enroll at reduced tuition rates in certain out-of-state professional programs, including allopathic medicine, dentistry, osteopathic medicine, podiatry, occupational therapy, optometry, physical therapy, physician assistant and veterinary medicine.

WYDENT is a dental education contract program for certified Wyoming residents with the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in Lincoln and Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha. Participants make a contract payment to UW for the four years of dental school, and the state of Wyoming pays the educational costs to the appropriate dental school for each student.

The WYDENT and WICHE PSEP programs provide a wonderful opportunity for Wyoming residents to pursue careers in a broad range of health care professions while minimizing out-of-pocket costs, says UW Provost and Executive Vice President Kevin Carman. The Wyoming Legislature provides the funding to support these opportunities, and it does so with the recognition that incentivizing young Wyomingites to pursue careers in health care and practice in Wyoming is a win-win for young scholars and the state.

UWs Pre-Health Advising Office is the starting point for students considering careers in health care and where they can apply to either the WICHE or WYDENT programs for admission to professional schools, many times at a reduced cost.

For both programs, potential students must submit an application demonstrating they meet the programs residency definitions, says Craig Vaske, manager of the office. This provides applicants with improved access to participating programs and the opportunity to receive financial support in return for committing to work in Wyoming for three years after completing their education.

For Kennedy Ortega, from Gillette, the value of pursuing a career in health care through the UW WICHE program was made clear early in her undergraduate career, when she planned to become an occupational therapist and practice back home in Gillette.

The WICHE program makes health care professions achievable and affordable, Ortega says. It is an incredible opportunity for those who wish to return to Wyoming. Take the time to apply, as it is an incredible opportunity for more affordable graduate options.

Paige Asbell, of Jackson, points out the importance of the incentives in both the WICHE and PSEP programs for students to return and practice in their health care fields in Wyoming.

After being born and raised in Wyoming and attending school at the University of Wyoming, I am aware of how lacking our resources for quality health care can be in the state, Asbell says. Though I am not certain on what specific area I want to practice in as a physician assistant, I am certain that I want to be a health care professional in the state of Wyoming. I would be happy to go anywhere in the state where I feel my interest and passion can be of best use and can provide services to the most amount of people in our state.

The same holds true for Dallin Davidson, from Burlington, as he explains he has a family history of experience in the WYDENT program, from which he, too, is pursuing his goal of becoming a dentist.

Asked what he would tell a UW student interested in the WYDENT program, Davidson says, The state of Wyoming and the University of Wyoming have partnered well to create some awesome opportunities for students looking to go into the field of health care with programs to help fund more than just dental school. But WYDENT is a huge blessing to anyone willing to put in the time and effort needed to get accepted into a WYDENT participating dental school and has afforded me an excellent opportunity to continue my education. For anyone pursuing a dental career, the WYDENT program would be the way to go.

UW graduates committing this spring to contracts to return to Wyoming and practice as health care providers through WICHE or WYDENT, listed by hometown, name and chosen health career, are:

Burlington -- Dallin Davidson, dentistry.

Casper -- Kerissa Anderson, physical therapy.

Cheyenne -- Nathan Zastoupil, dentistry.

Cora -- Kaden Van Valkenburg, physical therapy.

Gillette -- Jordan Klaassen, medicine; Kinsley Larson, physical therapy; and Kennedy Ortega, occupational therapy.

Jackson -- Paige Asbell, physician assistant.

Laramie -- Kelcey Anderson, physical therapy, and Dillon Nye, physician assistant.

Rock Springs -- Chloe Garcia, dentistry; Jordan Goldman, osteopathic medicine; Cameron Metcalf, dentistry; Magen Rohrer, physical therapy; and Elle Thomas, medicine.

Sheridan -- Micall Davis, orthodontics.

Star Valley -- Jaxon Wilkes, physical therapy.

For those interested in learning more about the WICHE, PSEP and WYDENT programs through the College of Health Sciences Pre-Health Advising Office, visit www.uwyo.edu/preprof/.

About the University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences

UWs College of Health Sciences trains health and wellness professionals and researchers in a wide variety of disciplines, including medicine, nursing, pharmacy, speech-language pathology, social work, kinesiology, public health, health administration and disability studies. The college also oversees residency and fellowship programs in Casper and Cheyenne, as well as operating a speech/hearing clinic in Laramie and primary care clinics in Laramie, Casper and Cheyenne.

With more than 1,600 undergraduate, graduate and professional students, the college is dedicated to training the health and wellness workforce of Wyoming and conducting high-quality research and community engagement, with a particular focus on rural and frontier populations.
Armenia has returned to Azerbaijan four border villages it seized decades ago, the countries confirmed Friday, a key step toward normalizing ties between the historic rivals.

The move, which has sparked protracted protests in Armenia, is an important move for reaching a comprehensive peace agreement after years of fruitless talks mediated by Russia and Western countries.

The Caucasus countries, both former Soviet republics, fought two wars in the 1990s and in 2020 for control of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azerbaijan recaptured it last year in a lightning offensive, ending three decades of Armenian-separatist rule over the enclave and prompting more than 100,000 residents to flee into Armenia.

Yerevan's disastrous defeat provoked a rift with its historic ally Russia, which Armenia accuses of failing to defend it in the face of Azerbaijani threats despite security treaty obligations.

After months of diplomatic tensions, Moscow said Friday that it had recalled its ambassador to Armenia for "consultations."

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova did not provide a reason for the recall, which is typically seen in diplomatic circles as an extreme step in the face of worsening ties.

Armenia's security service confirmed Friday that its border guards had taken up new positions in the east of the country, reflecting a recently brokered border demarcation deal that cedes the villages to Azerbaijani control.

Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev announced separately that his country's border guards had taken control of the four settlements.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan agreed in March to return the four abandoned villages, which were seized in the 1990s, as part of efforts to secure a lasting peace deal.

In a televised statement Friday evening, he said fixing the country's volatile border with Azerbaijan "is a sole guarantee for the very existence of the Armenian republic within its internationally recognized and legitimate frontier."

The two countries agreed earlier this month on the new demarcation of 12.7 kilometers of their border, returning the villages of Baghanis Ayrum, Ashaghi Askipara, Kheyrimli and Ghizilhajili to Azerbaijan.

Pashinyan has hailed the agreement as "very important" for Armenia's sovereignty and said it "brings our security and stability to a new level."

The territory ceded by Yerevan is of strategic importance for landlocked Armenia because it controls sections of a vital highway to Georgia.

Armenian residents of nearby settlements say the move could cut them off from the rest of the country, and they accuse Pashinyan of unilaterally giving away territory without getting anything in return.

Pashinyan has said Armenia will build new roads in the area over the next few months.

His decision has sparked weeks of anti-government protests in Armenia, with thousands of demonstrators led by the charismatic cleric Bagrat Galstanyan demanding Pashinyan's resignation.

A new anti-government protest is scheduled for Sunday.

A 5.8-kilometer section of the border near the Armenian village of Kirants will be guarded "according to a transitional scheme until July 24," Armenia's national security service said Friday.

The village mayor has said locals will be allowed to use a section of the road that is to be transferred to Azerbaijani control, until new roads are built.

Local media reported that some Kirants residents had dismantled their houses and fled the village, which is located just meters from the redrawn border.
China warned on Friday of war over Taiwan and said it would ramp up countermeasures until "complete reunification" was achieved, as Chinese forces conducted military drills around the self-ruled island.

Warships and fighter jets encircled Taiwan on the second day of exercises that Beijing said were a test of its ability to seize the island, days after its new president was sworn in.

China's military kicked off the two-day war games on Thursday morning, surrounding democratic Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft as it vowed the blood of "independence forces" on the island would flow.

The exercises were launched three days after Lai Ching-te took office and made an inauguration speech that China denounced as a "confession of independence."

Beijing's defense ministry spokesman Wu Qian said on Friday that Lai "has seriously challenged the one-China principle... pushing our compatriots in Taiwan into a perilous situation of war and danger."

"Every time 'Taiwan independence' provokes us, we will push our countermeasures one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved," he said.

The drills are part of an escalating campaign of intimidation by China in which it has carried out a series of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan in recent years.

They are testing the "capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories," Li Xi, spokesman for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command, said on Friday.

Fighter jets loaded with live ammunition scrambled towards targets and bombers formed formations to combine with warships to simulate "strikes against important targets," state broadcaster CCTV reported.

China, which split with Taiwan at the end of a civil war 75 years ago, regards the island as a renegade province with which it must eventually be reunified.

The dispute has long made the Taiwan Strait one of the world's most dangerous flashpoints, and this week's events have stoked fears that China may use military force to bring the island under mainland rule.

The United States, Taiwan's strongest ally and military backer, "strongly" urged China on Thursday to act with restraint. The United Nations called for all sides to avoid escalation.

'Common roots'

As the drills -- Codenamed "Joint Sword-2024A" -- got under way, China said they would serve as "strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces."

Footage published by China's military showed soldiers streaming out of a building to battle stations and jets taking off to a rousing martial tune.

CCTV reported that Chinese sailors had called out to their Taiwanese counterparts at sea, warning them against "resisting reunification by force."

An animated graphic published by the Chinese military showed missiles raining down on key targets on the island, declaring it would "cut off the blood vessels for Taiwan independence!"

At a tourist park on Pingtan -- a Chinese island situated in the Taiwan Strait -- visitors clambered over the rocky landscape to gaze out at the misty horizon as pop music blared from a loudspeaker at nearby tea stalls.

Others posed for pictures in front of a sign proclaiming "the closest distance between the motherland and Taiwan island", 68 nautical miles (126 kilometers) away.

"We share common roots," Chen Yan, a 60-year-old woman from Wuhan, told AFP about Taiwan.

"So I think there will definitely be unification," she added.

'Heads broken'

China has repeatedly branded Lai a "dangerous separatist" who would bring "war and decline" to the island.

In a speech on Thursday, Lai said he would "stand on the front line" to defend Taiwan, without directly referring to the drills.

Beijing was incensed by his inauguration speech on Monday, in which he hailed a "glorious" era for Taiwan's democracy.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin delivered a warning on Thursday that included language more commonly used by China's propaganda outlets.

"Taiwan independence forces will be left with their heads broken and blood flowing after colliding against the great... trend of China achieving complete unification," Wang told reporters.

Beijing's Xinhua news agency and ruling party organ the People's Daily ran editorials hailing the drills on Friday, while slamming Lai's "treacherous behavior" and promising a "severe blow".

The drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and to the north, south and east of the island, as well as areas around the Taipei-administered islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

Beijing has said the drills will last until Friday but analysts say it could choose to extend the war games or launch missiles near Taiwan, as it did after a visit to the island by then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022.

Taipei's defense ministry said the Chinese military had gotten within 24 nautical miles of Taiwan's main island.

Its coast guard reported on Friday that four Chinese vessels entered the "restricted waters" of two Taiwanese islands as two other vessels nearby provided support.
The European Parliament's hard-right Identity and Democracy Group (ID) has expelled Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD) delegation.

ID's decision Thursday came a day after the AfD banned its leader, Maximilian Krah, from campaign events.

Krah is being investigated for his ties to Russia and China after one of his aides was arrested on accusations of spying for China.

In addition, he said in an interview published in an Italian newspaper that he wouldn't say "that anyone who wore an SS uniform was automatically a criminal." He was referring to the much-feared Nazi Schutzstaffel, the black-uniformed elite guards of Nazi Germany.

Krah's SS statement along with other behaviors were too much for some other far-right groups.

ID said in a statement that it "no longer wants to be associated with the incidents involving Maximilian Krah" and that AfD was excluded "with immediate effect."

Reuters reported that it had seen a letter from the AfD party to ID, requesting that the parliament group expel only Krah instead of the entire group. In the letter, AfD blamed Krah's actions on his "personality," according to Reuters.

The far-right delegations in the European Parliament are divided into several groups, but the two main groups are the European Conservatives and Reformists led by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Rassemblement National (RN) led by Marine Le Pen of France.

On Tuesday, RN said it would not sit with AfD any longer in Brussels, where the European Parliament is based.

Jean-Paul Garraud, a French RN lawmaker, said Krah's remarks were "inadmissible."

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, however, warned against being impressed by one far-right group's action against another.

"Different name, but all the same," she said.

"This really is the end of the road of a journey of radicalization for the AfD, which has become too radical to stomach even for that most far-right fringe of the European political spectrum," Nicolai von Ondarza, of the German Institute for International and Security, wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Political analysts, however, have predicted that nationalist and Eurosceptic parties will win record numbers of votes in next month's election.

While AfD has banned Krah from any appearances at events for the upcoming EU election, his name will remain on the ballot because it is reportedly too late to remove it.

Krah remains the party's lead candidate, and AfD leaders say they remain "optimistic" about election results.
On May 20, the Philippines called for an international investigation of the environmental damage in the South China Sea. Manila accused China of destroying the marine ecosystem, after the Philippine Coastal Guard shared a series of satellite images showing badly damaged coral reefs surrounding the Scarborough Shoal.

China denied the accusations, and reasserted claims to Philippine-administered Thitu Island, also known as Pag-asa Island or Zhongye Dao in China, in the Spratly Islands.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said during a May 21 press briefing:

"The Philippines illegally occupied China's Zhongye Dao and has carried out frequent activities in the adjacent waters of Zhongye Dao. If any environmental degradation appears in those waters, it is the Philippines who needs to reflect on its behavior, instead of wrongly accusing China."

That is false.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration at the Hague did not recognize Chinas claims over the Spratly Islands. China is the main polluter of the South China Sea where Beijings island-building, dredging and overfishing causes severe environmental damage.

Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI), a project of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, determined that China had played the largest role in the South China Seas declining marine environment.

In an investigation released in December 2023, the AMTI exposed how Beijings actions contributed to the environmental degradation.

As part of efforts to assert its sweeping claims to the South China Sea, China has established a military presence on the Paracel and Spratly islands and created artificial islands.

The process of creating those artificial islands involves dredging the seafloor and pouring that seafloor material on top of coral reefs.

This process disturbed the seafloor, creating clouds of abrasive sediment that killed nearby marine life and overwhelmed the coral reefs capacity to repair itself, the report found. The results show that China has caused the most reef destruction through dredging and land fill, burying roughly 4,648 acres of reefs.

The report says Chinas overall damage to coral reefs in the South China Sea is more extensive.

With the help of commercial satellite imagery, AMTI determined that China had destroyed or seriously damaged at least 21,183 acres of coral reefand likely much morethrough island expansion and giant clam harvesting.

China challenged that, alleging the report authors cited a few satellite images and stirred up falsified allegations from years ago to come to conclusions that are neither factual nor verifiable.

However, international bodies, academics and others also say China has caused significant environmental harm to the sea.

In 2013, the Philippines filed a petition with the Permanent Court of Arbitration at the Hague. The Hague, contesting that Chinas claims to the bulk of the South China Sea violated the Philippines rights to its exclusive economic zone (EEZ)  the 200-nautical mile stretch of sea from the coast of a state  and its territorial waters.

In its 2016 ruling, The Hague rebuked Beijings sweeping claims to the sea, and found that Chinas artificial island-building activities on the seven reefs in the Spratly Islands have caused devastating and long-lasting damage to the marine environment.

The Hague said that through its island-building activities in the South China Sea, Beijing had breached various articles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, includes the states obligations to protect and preserve the marine environment.

The Hague found China has conducted dredging in such a way as to pollute the marine environment with sediment in breach of Article 194(1) and has violated its duty under Article 194(5) to take measures necessary to protect and preserve rare or fragile ecosystems as well as the habitat of depleted, threatened or endangered species and other forms of marine life."

Chinas island-building represents the quickest deterioration of coral reefs in human history, U.S. researchers, citing expert testimonies from the arbitration hearings, wrote in a 2019 paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports.

The AMTI also found that through industrial fishing, particularly the practice of bottom trawling, which involves dragging large, weighted nets along the seabed, China had contributed to destroying South China seabed ecosystems by ripping up coral and sponges and stirring up sediment.

Chinas pernicious fishing practices extend beyond the South China Sea.

Chinese fishing vessels systematically engage in illegal fishing, particularly off the coast of South America, imperiling their ecosystems.

The Philippines also accused China of illegally building an artificial island in its EEZ.

In September 2023, Philippine coast guard spokesman Jay Tarriela said the Philippines armed forces had exposed the severe damage the Chinese forces inflicted upon the marine environment and coral reef.

Tarriela said a survey conducted on Sabina Shoal, known as Escoda Shoal in the Philippines, had "revealed visible discoloration of its seabed, indicating China was attempting to modify the natural topography of its underwater terrain and making land from waterbody beds.

When asked about the island building claims, Wang Wenbin accused the Philippines of spreading rumors and vilifying China to mislead the international community.

To further deflect from these accusations, on May 13, Chinas state-run English language news channel CGTN posted a video on X, showing what they identified as Filipino fishermen.

The video showed a fisherman spitting into the sea and another dropping something small into the water. CGTN accompanied the post with a comment reading: Who are damaging the South China Sea? Here you go!

It is misinformation of staggering proportions to compare the spitting fisherman to the damage that Chinas dredging, island building, and overfishing is doing to the South China Sea.
Families of the victims of the 2022 elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, filed two lawsuits Friday against Instagram parent company Meta, Activision Blizzard and its parent Microsoft, and gunmaker Daniel Defense, contending they cooperated to market dangerous weapons to impressionable teens such as the Uvalde shooter.

Together, the wrongful-death complaints argue that Daniel Defense, a Georgia-based gun manufacturer, used Instagram and Activision's warfare video game "Call of Duty" to market its assault-style rifles to teenage boys, while Meta and Microsoft facilitated the strategy with lax oversight and no regard for the consequences.

Meta, Microsoft and Daniel Defense did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

In one of the deadliest school shootings in history, 19 children and two teachers were killed on May 24, 2022, when an 18-year-old gunman armed with a Daniel Defense rifle entered Robb Elementary School and barricaded himself inside adjoining classrooms with dozens of students.

The complaints were filed on the two-year anniversary of the massacre by Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, the same law firm that reached a $73 million settlement with rifle manufacturer Remington in 2022 on behalf of families of children killed in the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut in 2012.

The first lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, accuses Instagram of giving gun manufacturers "an unsupervised channel to speak directly to minors, in their homes, at school, even in the middle of the night," with only token oversight.

The complaint also alleges that Activision's "Call of Duty" "creates a vividly realistic and addicting theater of violence in which teenage boys learn to kill with frightening skill and ease," and with game firearms modeled on actual weapons.

The Uvalde shooter played "Call of Duty"  which features, among other weapons, an assault-style rifle manufactured by Daniel Defense, according to the lawsuit  and visited Instagram obsessively, where Daniel Defense often advertised.

As a result, the complaint alleges, he became fixated on acquiring the same weapon and using it to commit the killings, even though he had never fired a gun in real life before.

The second lawsuit, filed in Uvalde County District Court, accuses Daniel Defense of deliberately aiming its ads at adolescent boys to secure lifelong customers.

"There is a direct line between the conduct of these companies and the Uvalde shooting," Josh Koskoff, one of the families' lawyers, said in a statement. "This three-headed monster knowingly exposed him to the weapon, conditioned him to see it as a tool to solve his problems and trained him to use it."

Daniel Defense is already facing other lawsuits filed by families of some victims. In a 2022 statement, chief executive officer Marty Daniel called such litigation "frivolous" and "politically motivated."

Earlier this week, families of the victims announced a separate lawsuit against nearly 100 state police officers who participated in what the U.S. Justice Department has concluded was a botched emergency response. The families also reached a $2 million settlement with the city of Uvalde.

Several other suits against various public agencies remain pending.
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Indigenous fashion designers gathered in the American Southwest to celebrate couture and creativity at the first ever Native Fashion Week. Gustavo Martinez Contreras has our story from Santa Fe, New Mexico.
French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday in New Caledonia that he would not force through any voting reforms on the Pacific territory.

The prospect of expanding voting rights in the territory sparked deadly violence last week. Six people were killed and hundreds were injured.

The president took a helicopter tour of areas devastated by the riots that broke out last week in response to the bill introduced in the French Parliament to allow French-born residents who have lived in New Caledonia for 10 years to vote in local elections.

Frances National Assembly approved the controversial measure last week by a vote of 351-153. The bill still must be approved in a special session of both houses of Parliament next month.

Leaders of the islands pro-independence movement say the measure would dilute the voting power of the Indigenous Kanak people, who have suffered under decades of discrimination.

Macron urged pro-independence and pro-French leaders to push for calm and help restore order as he met with local officials in the capital city of Noumea.

Macron said police reinforcements would remain in New Caledonia "as long as necessary" in response to the unrest.

France agreed in 1998 to grant New Caledonia more political power and autonomy and to hold three referendums over the islands status. Voters have rejected independence in all three referendums.

Scores of homes and businesses have been looted and burned in Noumea, prompting authorities to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew and a ban on public gatherings. The violence has also prompted the closure of schools and businesses, as well as the islands airport, which left thousands of tourists unable to leave.

Groups of Kanak protesters have set up roadblocks leading in and out of Noumea, which has prevented deliveries of food and medicine to citizens and tourists trapped in their homes and resorts.

Australia and New Zealand sent planes to Noumea to evacuate their stranded citizens.

France has deployed more than 1,000 security personnel to help end the unrest.

At least 270 people have been arrested.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
Mali and Russia on Friday launched the construction of the largest solar power plant in West Africa, Malian Energy Minister Bintou Camara said on national television.

It comes as the country continues to be plagued by electricity supply problems, with only half of the population having access to electricity.

The power station, "the first [in terms of size] in the country and even in the subregion ... will greatly reduce the electricity shortage currently affecting our country," Camara told Malian TV station ORTM.

Grigory Nazarov, director of NovaWind, the Russian company in charge of the construction, said it is expected to increase Mali's electricity production by 10%.

NovaWind is a subsidiary of Russia's nuclear agency Rosatom.

The 200-megawatt solar station will cover 314 hectares in Sanankoroba, in southwestern Mali, close to the capital, Bamako.

The work, which is costing over 200 million euros ($217 million), will take a year to complete, Nazarov said.

The solar power plant is designed for "stable operation for 20 years" and will come "under full control of the Malian Ministry of Energy" after 10 years, he added.

Malian electricity production is 70% thermal, which is extremely costly, Finance Minister Alousseni Sanou said in March when the deal with NovaWind was signed.

Burdened with a debt of more than $330 million, Mali's national energy company is no longer able to supply electricity to the capital and other towns around the country.

Construction of two other solar plants near Bamako is scheduled to start on May 28 and June 1 and be built by Chinese and Emirati companies.

Moscow has steadily gained influence in Mali through the deployment of Wagner Group mercenaries, unofficially serving the Kremlin's aims in resource-rich Africa since the 2010s.

During a call in March, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Malian junta leader Colonel Assimi Goita discussed strengthening "cooperation in energy, agricultural and mining projects," the Kremlin said.
Officials and media on the South Pacific Island nation of Papua New Guinea said Friday more than 100 people are feared dead after a landslide buried a remote village.

Officials and witnesses said the landslide reportedly hit Kaokalam village in Enga province, about 600 kilometers northwest of the capital of Port Moresby, at about 3 a.m. local time. A local community official told the French news agency he believed about 100 homes were buried.

Video and images from the scene show rescuers searching for survivors amid large boulders and trees on a steep hillside.

In an interview, Papua New Guinea Red Cross official Janet Philemon told the U.S. news channel CNN the number of people killed or missing is very fluid, but more than 100 people are believed to be dead.

Philemon said the landslide has blocked a portion of the main highway leading into the community, limiting access to the village, so locals were acting as first responders. She said it is unclear what caused the landslide, although the area gets frequent rain.

In a statement, Papua New Guinean Prime Minister James Marape said his government has sent disaster officials to the landslide site to "start relief work, recovery of bodies, and reconstruction of infrastructure." He expressed his condolences to the families.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
The international airport in the New Caledonian capital, Noumea, will remain closed to commercial flights until at least 9 a.m. Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), Charles Roger, director of the body that operates the facility, told AFP.

That would extend the shutdown to nearly two weeks in total, after flights were halted on May 15 in the face of deadly rioting that broke out in the French Pacific territory.

The news on Friday came as French President Emmanuel Macron warned the archipelago must not become "the Wild West" during a television interview with local media.

France has dispatched about 3,000 security personnel to the territory in a bid to restore order after more than a week of rioting that has left at least six people dead.

Macron justified the measure as necessary for a "return to calm," because "it's not the Wild West."

"The republic must regain authority on all points. In France, not everyone defends themselves," he added, reference to local groups who have organized the defense of their neighborhoods amid the unrest.

"There is a republican order, it is the security forces who ensure it," he added.

Since Tuesday, New Zealand and Australia have been carrying out special evacuation flights to bring home hundreds of tourists stranded by the unrest, which was sparked by opposition to controversial electoral reforms.

The Australian evacuation flights were set to continue Friday, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on social media platform X Thursday evening.

Military aircraft from both countries were expected to pass through Noumea on Friday, according to flight tracker site Flightradar24.

Since May 13, hundreds have been injured amid looting, arson and clashes triggered by the French voting reform plan.

New Caledonia has been ruled from Paris since the 1800s, but many Indigenous Kanaks still resent France's power over their islands and want fuller autonomy or independence.

France had planned to give voting rights to thousands of non-Indigenous long-term residents, something Kanaks say would dilute the influence of their votes.

Separatists have thrown up barricades that have cut off whole neighborhoods, as well as the main route to the international airport.

Macron on Thursday conceded more talks were needed on the voting changes, and pledged they would "not be forced through in the current context."

"We will allow some weeks to allow a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord" among all parties, he added, saying he would review the situation again within a month.

Caledonians would be asked to vote on their future if leaders can reach an over-arching agreement, Macron said. The French parliament's lower house had approved the voting reform, but final ratification was still needed.
Pakistan will pay more than $2 million to the families of Chinese workers killed in a suicide bombing this year.

Five Chinese workers and their Pakistani driver were killed on March 26 when a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their convoy in the countrys northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The Economic Coordination Committee, Pakistans top economic body approved a $2.58 million package Thursday as compensation to the families of the foreign victims.

The ECC, presided over by Pakistani Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, also approved nearly $9,000 in compensation for the family of the slain Pakistani national.

The ECC considered and approved proposals for Technical Supplementary Grants, including: $2.58 million and Rs. 2.5 million to the Ministry of Water Resources as the compensation packages for Chinese and local casualties at DASU Hydropower Project, a statement on the finance ministry's website said.

The workers were traveling to the Chinese-funded Dasu hydropower project in the remote region of Kohistan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa when they came under attack in Bisham, in Shangla district, about four hours north of the capital. Islamabad.

Pakistan identified the attacker as an Afghan national and claimed the attack was planned in Afghanistan. Pakistan: Afghan-based terrorists planned suicide attack on Chinese engineers

Islamabad accuses the Afghan Taliban of allowing anti-Pakistan terrorists to operate on its soil, a charge the rulers in Kabul deny.

China has urged Pakistan to punish those involved in the attack and to ensure better security for its nationals present in the country. Thousands of Chinese are working on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, a multibillion-dollar energy and infrastructure project under Beijings global Belt and Road Initiative.

As Pakistan pushes to revive the pace of the megaproject, Islamabad has assured China it has enhanced security protocols for the foreign workers.

In a visit to Dasu, days after the attack, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif vowed fool-proof security arrangements in a meeting with Chinese workers at the hydropower project.

I will not rest until we have put in place the best possible security measures for your security. Not only in Dasu, [but] all over Pakistan, Sharif said, adding that, this was his promise to the people of China, and to the Chinese leadership including President Xi Jinping.

A special military unit as well as local law enforcement are already responsible for the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan.

Since the launch of CPEC, foreign workers have come under attack, mostly, by Baloch separatist groups who see the project as part of Pakistani states measures to rob the mineral-rich Balochistan province of its precious resources.

No group, however, claimed responsibility for the attack in March that occurred far from Balochistan. The banned Islamist militant outfit Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan - an ideological offshoot of the Afghan Taliban - has a foothold in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In 2021, an attack on a bus carrying workers to the same hydropower project killed 13 people including at least nine Chinese nationals. Pakistan compensated their families as well.

Two alleged Islamist militants were sentenced to death for that attack.
Russia pounded Kharkiv with missiles on Thursday, killing seven people inside a printing house, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy chided Ukraine's Western allies for not providing enough military support to rebuff Russian attacks. Sweden, NATO's newest member, this week announced a three-year plan to provide additional support for Ukraine totaling more than $7 billion. China launched "punishment" drills around Taiwan on Thursday in what it said was a response to "separatist acts," sending up heavily armed warplanes and staging mock attacks. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has projected an exceptionally active Atlantic hurricane season this year. And 'I still remember it like it was yesterday' - D-Day survivor on 80th anniversary
Private land in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is being auctioned off by its owner, with strong interest from Chinese buyers, according to a lawyer responsible for the auction. Such a sale would likely cause geopolitical headaches for Norway and NATO because of Svalbards strategic location in the Arctic Ocean. Henry Wilkins has more. Camera: Henry Wilkins
South Korea, Japan, and China will resume high-level talks for the first time in over four years next week, sending senior leaders to a summit aimed at stabilizing ties among the Asian neighbors.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will host Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Seoul Monday, South Koreas presidential office announced this week.

The three countries have hoped to hold yearly summits, but the meetings have not occurred since 2019 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and bilateral frictions, which have continued to emerge.

This week, China lashed out at South Korea and Japan after lawmakers from both countries attended the inauguration of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. China views self-ruled Taiwan as its own and sees Lai as a dangerous separatist.

China has also watched warily as Japan and South Korea expand defense cooperation, not only between themselves but also with the United States. China fears the U.S. is working with its Asian allies to contain Beijing.

Although South Korea-Japan ties have improved under Yoon, the relationship is showing signs of strain after South Korean politicians accused Tokyo of inappropriately pressuring a South Korean company to sell its stake in a popular Japanese messaging app.

Analysts do not expect the summit to produce any breakthroughs to resolve these disputes. Instead, the three sides hope to regularize the leader-level meetings, restoring an important channel for managing tense relations.

The summit will not solve every problem and curb potential conflicts in the region in a single stroke, said Park Cheol Hee, chancellor of the state-run Korea National Diplomatic Academy, in a commentary on the website of the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

However, since all three countries are economically interdependent and wish to avoid a Cold War scenario, it is necessary to manage the level of conflict to a tolerable level, Park added.

Diplomatic dance

Since taking office two years ago, Yoon has improved ties with Japan, partnering with Kishida to cooperate on common issues such as nuclear-armed North Korea.

However, Yoon and Kishida have trodden more cautiously when it comes to China, a vital trading partner for both Seoul and Tokyo.

Although neither leader has overseen drastic changes to his countrys China policies, both have embraced a tougher, values-based rhetoric  often speaking of the contest between democracy and authoritarianism.

South Korea and Japan have also grown bolder about speaking of the importance of preserving the status quo in democratic Taiwan, which China has threatened to take by force.

Yoon especially upset China last year when he called Taiwans fate a global issue. China objects to such statements, insisting its relationship with Taiwan is a domestic matter.

As Lai was sworn in as Taiwans president this week, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi lashed out against those he said were attempting to challenge the one-China principle.

China on Thursday launched two days of large-scale military exercises encircling Taiwan, further raising tension around what is perhaps the regions most sensitive hotspot.

Chinas approach

However, China may have some incentive to appear more conciliatory during next weeks summit.

Jeffrey Robertson, a professor of diplomatic studies at Seouls Yonsei University, said China may conclude it has much to gain simply by reestablishing dialogue with Japan and South Korea  a forum that excludes the United States.

I think [China] is going to try to show that it is less threatening to Korea and Japan and show that there is an alternative, Robertson added. It's demonstrating that the region has the potential to govern itself.

While some analysts have said that China may use the meeting to create or expose divisions between South Korea and Japan, that may not be necessary now.

I think those cracks [between South Korea and Japan] are already present and pretty much filling up with water right now, Robertson said.

Japan-Korea tensions

In recent weeks, several prominent South Korean politicians accused Japan of pressuring South Korean tech giant Naver to sell its stake in the company that controls Line, a do-it-all social media app that dominates digital life in Japan.

Japanese regulators say the move is motivated by information security concerns, after Naver suffered a cyberattack that resulted in a massive leak of data, including the personal information of Line users.

But South Korean opposition figures have jumped on the issue to attack Yoons friendlier approach to Japan, with some even comparing the dispute to Japans colonization of Korea.

According to Japans Kyodo news agency, Kishida and Yoon may discuss the Line/Naver issue during bilateral talks to be held on the sidelines of the broader summit.

The Japanese and South Korean leaders will also likely urge China to pressure North Korea to reengage in denuclearization talks, said Bruce Bennett, a defense researcher at the Rand Corporation.

But Im not sure if much will come out of that, said Bennett, who spoke to reporters last week at the Asan Plenum, a conference in Seoul.

China does not have much influence in North Korea, said Bennett, adding that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will only act if he thinks its in his best interest.

Instead, the trilateral summit is expected to focus on issues including personnel exchanges, climate change, trade, health and aging population, technology, and disasters, according to South Korean officials.

While those topics may not attract much media attention, officials in South Korea say the discussions are worthwhile  if nothing else, to create dialogue that will prevent tensions from spinning out of control.

In an editorial last week for South Koreas Chosun Ilbo newspaper, Yoons former National Security Adviser Kim Sung-han argued that close communication with China is essential for regional peace and prosperity  and for avoiding conflict along the lines of World War I.

Few if any expect any breakthroughs  not least of all because Chinas top leader, Xi Jinping, will not attend this round of talks.

It's just the fact that they're starting the dialogue again  I think it's significant enough in itself, Robertson said.
South Korea and Japan announced on Friday a series of sanctions applied to individuals, organizations and ships related to Russia's alleged procurement of weapons from North Korea in breach of U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Seoul's foreign ministry said sanctions had been slapped on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels over weapons trade and other activities between Pyongyang and Moscow.

The Russian vessels had been carrying a large quantity of containers between Russia and North Korea transporting military supplies in a clear violation of the United Nations Security Council resolutions, the ministry said in a statement.

The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of transferring weapons to Russia for use in its war in Ukraine.

Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the accusations, but vowed last year to deepen military relations.

Japan also announced sanctions on 11 organizations and one individual including what it said were Russian groups involved in military cooperation to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"Russia's procurement of arms from North Korea violates the relevant U.N. resolutions that completely prohibit the transfer of arms and related materials to and from North Korea," Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told a news conference.

According to South Korea's foreign ministry, one North Korean individual representing a state-controlled company based in Syria held negotiations to promote arms trade with a Russian from the Wagner Group between 2022 and 2023. The ministry cited an annual report by the U.N. panel of experts monitoring the reclusive state.

Another individual at a company based in Russia was involved in bringing diesel from Russia into North Korea, the ministry said, accusing both individuals of breaching U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Five other North Koreans helped raise funds to support Pyongyang's development of nuclear and missile programs by earning foreign currency as IT workers, South Korea's statement said.

Russia last month described South Korea's sanctions on Russian individuals and entities as an "unfriendly move" and warned it would respond in due course.

North Korea has been under U.N. sanctions for its ballistic missile and nuclear programs since 2006, and those measures have been strengthened over the years.

Earlier this year, the U.N. panel of experts monitoring sanctions on North Korea failed to extend its mandate following a veto by Moscow, prompting the United States and its allies to seek alternatives.
The Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) met in Namibias capital on Thursday to discuss ways to blunt the impact of rising temperatures in the region.

Global warming has surpassed the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold agreed upon in the Paris Agreement, with January 2024 marking the hottest year on Earth since pre-industrial times.

The rising temperatures, experts say, are making environmental disasters worse.

Climate expert Francois Engelbrecht cautioned of tipping points if Southern African nations dont adapt to climate change and limit their carbon dioxide emissions by moving from coal and oil to cleaner energies like wind and solar.

In Botswana and Namibia, one of the biggest risks is that we are running the risk of completely losing the cattle industry," Engelbrecht said. "Because if the world should warm to about 3 degrees Celsius globally, it means in Botswana and obviously Namibia, the warming will be about 6 degrees Celsius, and that heat stress is so aggressive to the cattle that no breed can survive. All the cattle breeds will become unsustainable in terms of farming with them.

Tipping points are events where climate systems change in such a way that they can no longer be reversed. As an example, Engelbrecht said, a prolonged drought in the Gauteng Province of South Africa that lowered water levels in dams and led to shortages in the city of Johannesburg, making it inhospitable.

Zambian geology scholar Kawawa Banda says research conducted under SASSCAL shows groundwater supply in the Zambezi Catchment Area shared by Botswana, Namibia and Zambia could be another tipping point.

In the TIPPECC project, what we want to do is understand the risks associated with these drought conditions," Banda said. "We also want to understand the risks associated with tipping points around the quality, as well as possible complete depletion of this resource, so that actions around adaptation and risks are better informed from a water management perspective.

TIPPECC stands for Tipping Points Explained by Climate Change. It is funded by SASSCAL. Jane Olwoch is the executive director of SASSCAL, which includes Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia.

She says there is a need to integrate climate change into goverment policy, and information is a tool in sensitizing leaders to act on climate change by supporting renewable energy.

We use science especially in green hydrogen to support demonstration pilot projects. In that way, we are bringing in new technology, new know-how, and giving our countries capability to respond to these new subjects like green hydrogen and renewable energy, Olwoch said.

Namibias green energy ambitions involve the production of hydrogen and ammonia for foreign markets using solar and wind energy, some of which will be sent back into the electrical grid.

A clean source of energy, experts say, can replace oil, coal and gas in the near future.

In the Southern Hemisphere, Botswana, Namibia and Zambia are hit hardest by global warming, with SASSCAL research showing a 6 percent increase in the second half of the 21st century if nothing is done about it now.
In recent weeks, Ukraine has intensified its appeals to the Biden administration to lift the ban on using U.S.-provided weapons to strike targets inside Russia.

The White House has said that it does not encourage or enable strikes on Russian territory with American weapons. At the same time, Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that ultimately Ukraine has to make decisions for itself about how its going to conduct this war.

For more about how the U.S. government sees its role in arming Ukraine, and why officials insist that American weapons not be used to strike targets in Russia, VOAs Ukrainian Service spoke to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Miller talked about why the U.S. will continue to provide Kyiv with everything it needs to defend itself as well as how he sees the relationship between NATO and Ukraine developing in the months ahead.

The following transcript has been edited for brevity and clarity.

VOA: During his recent visit to Ukraine, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken told Kyiv that U.S. aid will make a difference against Russia's offensive. Also, he declared a vision for Ukraines victory. After 2 years of war, what is this strategy?

Matthew Miller, State Department spokesperson: We continue to believe that Ukraine can win this conflict, that Ukraine will win this conflict. We've seen the Ukrainian military repel Russian forces from the outskirts of Kyiv. We've seen them reclaim more than half the territory that Russia initially occupied. And we see them continuing to fight bravely. We also see Ukraine building back its economy so it can stand on its own two feet. And one of the focuses of Blinkens visit was about all the things Ukraine needs to do to succeed diplomatically, militarily, economically.

VOA: Secretary Blinken recently stated that Ukraine will be a NATO member. How many steps closer will Ukraine be to NATO after the Washington summit compared to the one in Vilnius?

Miller: I will say on behalf of the United States, we have been very clear that Ukraine's future is in NATO and other NATO member states have made clear that Ukraine's future is in NATO.

And what the secretary wanted to make clear to the Ukrainian people when we were in Kyiv is that we do see a bridge from here to there, and we think that bridge needs to be well lit. It needs to be clear what the path is for the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian government needs to be, clear about what milestones need to be met.

But I would say it is also important to step back and make clear that even in advance of NATO's membership, we do continue to negotiate a defense agreement with Ukraine. There are some 30 countries that have either already concluded or are negotiating their long-term security agreements with Ukraine. Those are to provide Ukraine substantive long-term security commitments to ensure that not only does it have what it needs to defend itself today but has what it needs to defend itself in the future.

VOA: The Pentagon and the White House have been firm on the position regarding restrictions on how Ukraine can use American arms inside Russia. Secretary Blinken noted multiple times that the U.S. does not encourage Ukraine to use U.S. equipment to strike in Russia but that its up to Ukraine to make decisions on how Kyiv is going to conduct the war. Could you explain the difference between the two positions?

Miller: So, there is no difference in policy between us and the Pentagon or between us and the White House. We all have the same policy, which is we don't encourage strikes outside of Ukraine's borders. We don't enable such strikes beyond Ukraine's borders. We understand that when it comes to using non-U.S. provided weapons, ultimately Ukraine will make its own decisions.

Ukraine is a sovereign country, and they will have to make their own determinations when it comes to using weapons that they have acquired elsewhere or that they have built or that they have produced themselves, such as some of the drones that they produce, that you've seen them use. Those are decisions for Ukraine to make.

We don't enable the use of those weapons to strike outside Russia. That has been our longstanding policy ... continues to be our policy.

VOA: And why exactly is there this policy amid Russia opening a new front in the Kharkiv region?

Miller: So, we continue to support Ukraine's ability to back itself, including even some of the money or some of the equipment in the recently passed supplemental [aid package] has already made it to the front lines to help Ukraine defend itself against that assault in Kharkiv. We have, from day one, been committed to Ukraine's defense.

I can just tell you that we have always been there for Ukraine. We will always be there for Ukraine. We will always provide them [with] what they need to defend themselves.

VOA: What is the Department of State's reaction to the recent statement from the U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps that China is developing combat equipment with Russia to use against Ukraine? Does the State Department see any evidence of that? And if its confirmed, what could be the consequences of such a decision for Beijing?

Miller: We haven't seen the intelligence to back that up. We will, of course, get into a conversation with our U.K. counterparts about what it is they've seen. I will say, as for the United States, we have looked at this question very closely because there was a time where we were quite concerned that China was going to provide military support to Russia.

And we made it quite clear to the Chinese government that that would be unacceptable. We haven't seen them cross that line. Now, that said, we have been incredibly concerned about what we have seen China do, which is Chinese companies selling microelectronics, optical sensors, other equipment that is not direct military equipment, but that Russia has used to reinvigorate its defense industrial base and to fuel its war machine.

We've made [it] quite clear that we have concerns about that. And as the secretary said, when he went to China several weeks ago and raised this exact issue with President Xi [Jinping], if China doesn't take action to address this problem, the United States will.
A journalist in Pakistans southern Sindh province Friday died of a gunshot wound he sustained in an attack earlier this week, bringing the total number of media workers reported killed nationwide in 2024 to five.

Doctors and officials confirmed the death of Nasrullah Gadani, who was undergoing treatment in a hospital in Karachi, the provincial capital, after being shot and injured by unidentified assailants in a remote Sindh district on Tuesday. There were no claims of responsibility for the attack.

Activists and colleagues said the slain journalist had consistently highlighted the civic issues plaguing impoverished Sindh in his reporting. Gadani also was critical of the powerful feudal lords in the region, which led to his repeated detention by the police, as noted by Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir in this social media post on X, formerly Twitter.

The news of Gadanis death sparked outrage among journalists and civil society members, leading to a protest demonstration demanding justice for the slain reporter.



I am deeply in grief and sorrow along with Nasrullahs family and the media organization he is affiliated with, Murad Ali Shah, the provincial chief minister, said in a statement. Critics hold Shahs government for allegedly being behind some of the recent attacks on media workers in Sindh.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, a leading independent rights watchdog, said it was deeply concerned by the situation facing journalists in the country. It urged the Sindh government to investigate Gadanis killing and hold the perpetrators to account.

Meanwhile, the Committee to Protect Journalists, or CPJ, has pressed Pakistan to immediately reveal the whereabouts of Ahmad Farhad Shah, a freelance journalist and poet.

Several unknown men seized Shah from outside his home at night in the capital, Islamabad, and forced him into a vehicle over a week ago, said a copy of a petition his wife filed with the federal high court shortly after the incident.

Shahs wife, Syeda Urooj Zainab, has accused the Pakistani spy agency, Inter-Services Intelligence, or ISI, of abducting him for his activism against the countrys powerful military establishment.

The secretive, late-night seizure of journalist  Shah is further evidence of an intensifying crackdown on media freedom in Pakistan, the CPJ quoted its program director, Carlos Martinez de la Serna, as saying on Thursday.

Authorities must either present Ali Shah in court or immediately release him and ensure that law enforcement agencies do their job of investigating crimes against journalists, Serna said.

On Friday, the Islamabad High Court judge hearing the case summoned senior officers from the countrys intelligence agencies, including the ISI, to respond to the charges in the next hearing scheduled for May 29.

His whereabouts remain unknown. Ahmad has spoken fearlessly about state oppression and enforced disappearance in the past, Amnesty International wrote Friday on X.

Pakistans ISI has long been accused of forced disappearances of journalists and political as well as human rights activists for criticizing the militarys role in national politics. The agency and successive governments have consistently denied the allegations.
Thailand is set to ratify a U.N. convention that would see new ways to protect at-risk individuals from being extrajudicially abducted, kidnapped or disappeared.

The Southeast Asian country with a poor human rights record in recent years is seeking a seat on the U.N. Human Rights Council, and apparently hopes ratification will help its candidacy later this year, human rights advocates say.

The Thai Foreign Ministry told VOA that the goal is for the convention to be fully ratified by the government in Bangkok by June 13.

Thailand signed the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances (ICPPED) in 2012 yet has not formally ratified it.

"On May 14, 2024, Thailand deposited an Instrument of Ratification to the International Convention for the Protection of all Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Thailand reaffirms its commitment to protect all persons from enforced disappearance," Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs told VOA, noting the process is expected to end in ratification within a month.

ICPPED will be Thailand's eighth core international human rights treaty, the ministry said.

Thailand has a long history of enforced disappearances, records show. Between 1980 and 2023, the U.N. Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances reported that 77 of 93 documented "enforced or involuntary disappearance" cases in Thailand remain unsolved.

Sanhawan Srisod, an associate international legal adviser at the International Commission for Jurists, told VOA that Thailand is taking public steps to try to improve its rights reputation.

"Thailand has illustrated its willingness to take a leadership role in safeguarding human rights, not only at a global level but also at the domestic level," she said.

In February 2023, for example, Thailand passed the Act on Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance.

When in force, the U.N. treaty on protection is expected to reduce the number of "enforced disappearances," rights advocates say. A mechanism will be in place for requests to protect individuals at risk to be sent to the U.N. Committee on Enforced Disappearance, which is the supervisory authority of the convention.

"One immediate change is that relatives, legal representatives, or any other person having a legitimate interest in the potential victims of enforced disappearance will be equipped with more tools to seek the truth. The committee can urgently request state parties like Thailand to take measures to ensure that a disappeared person, including dissidents and political refugees, is located and protected, taking into account the urgency of the situation," Sanhawan said.

Phil Robertson, director of Asia Human Rights and Labour Advocates (AHRLA), said he hopes the Thai government works to improve conditions for dissidents and critics.

"One hopes that this ratification will see Thailand turn the corner and end such disappearances once and for all, but it will require real political commitment to stop the culture of intimidation and impunity which makes disappearing critics and rivals so easy," he told VOA.

Robertson said the treaty should be retroactive so dozens of unsolved cases can be re-examined.

"If they are serious about this issue, the Thai authorities would systematically re-open and investigate those cases, but there is no indication they are preparing to do so. For the families of the dozens of victims of enforced disappearance vainly waiting for closure and accountability, this ratification won't mean much since it's not retroactive," Robertson said.

One such case has reached a 20th anniversary. Somchai Neelapaijit, a prominent Thai human rights lawyer, disappeared in Bangkok in 2004.

Thailand announced last year it was seeking a seat on the U.N. Human Rights Council and was preparing for the September vote at the U.N. General Assembly that will determine which nations hold seats for the 2025-27 term.

Bangkok now has boosted its chances to secure a U.N. seat, Robertson says.

"Thailand needed something to show for its campaign to be elected to the U.N. Human Rights Council in September, so ratifying this convention became the easiest pledge they could make."

But for a country that has seen military coups and opposition crackdowns in recent years, Thailand's human rights record remains a concern.

The crackdown on dissidents stemming from the 2020 anti-government and monarchy reform protests has seen nearly 2,000 people prosecuted for expressing opinions and political views. This includes 272 people facing lese-majeste charges, which prohibits criticism of Thailand's monarchy. Under Article 112 of Thailand's Criminal Code, each charge can warrant a maximum 15-year prison sentence.

Human rights advocates have expressed concern that some political activists have been refused bail and remain in custody in pretrial detention. Currently 27 detainees are being held under those conditions, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights.

Earlier in May, political activist Netiporn Sanesangkhom, also known as "Bung," died of cardiac arrest while in custody following a hunger strike. She was facing lese-majeste charges and her bail had been revoked.

"Thailand does not deserve a seat on the U.N. Human Rights Council if it continues to imprison people for speaking the truth to power," Akarachai Chaimaneekarakate, advocacy lead at Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, told VOA.

Sanhawan, of the ICJ, said that while political activists languish in Thai prisons, questions over human rights practices hang over the country.

"The allegations of rights violations that continually haunt Thailand should be addressed, including the alleged misuse of the judicial process against political dissidents based on non-human rights compliance laws which have been consistently criticized by U.N. bodies for a long time."
Thousands of people took part in a rally in the Georgian capital on Friday against a controversial anti-NGO law, as the country's parliament said it would start proceedings next week to override a presidential veto.

The ruling Georgian Dream party's "foreign influence" law targets nongovernmental organizations, or NGOs, and media outlets that receive funding from abroad. It has triggered a month of huge street rallies in Tbilisi and sparked condemnation from Europe and the United States.

Opponents say the law mirrors Russian legislation used to silence dissent and risks destroying the Black Sea nation's shot at EU membership.

Georgian Dream blasted the United States for "encroaching" on Georgian sovereignty after Washington announced a plan for visa restrictions on Georgian officials over the legislation.

Almost daily rallies against the law have been held since April 9. And several thousand protesters gathered in central Tbilisi on Friday evening to show solidarity with people arrested at previous demonstrations.

Waving Georgian and EU flags, demonstrators marched from Freedom Square to the Interior Ministry headquarters to demand the release of detainees.

"We will never tolerate a pro-Russian government in Georgia," student demonstrator Misha Kavtaradze, 20, told AFP.

"No to the Russian law, yes to Europe," he said.

Georgian MPs adopted the law last week, but it was later vetoed by President Salome Zourabichvili, who is at loggerheads with the government.

The parliament press office told AFP that a legal affairs committee will discuss overruling the veto on Monday, formally launching the procedure that could see the measure come into force.

A vote at a plenary session is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, the press office said.

Georgian Dream has enough MPs to override the veto, and Zourabichvili has acknowledged that her attempt to block the legislation holds only "symbolic" power.

The law requires NGOs and media outlets receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as acting "in the interests of a foreign power."

It has been blasted as undemocratic by Western countries.

Georgian Dream slammed Washington's announcement Thursday of visa restrictions for "individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia" via the law.

In a statement, it accused the United States of "visa blackmail" and a "flagrant attempt to encroach on Georgia's independence and sovereignty."

The law was reintroduced one year after Georgian Dream dropped similar proposals that also triggered mass protests.

The rallies have turned violent on several occasions. Police have beaten and arrested demonstrators and used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the rallies.

Georgian Dream insists it is still committed to joining the EU and NATO and portrays the bill as being aimed at increasing the transparency of NGO funding.

Protesters accuse the party of bringing the country back into Moscow's orbit and sabotaging Georgia's European aspirations that are enshrined in its constitution. Polls indicated more than 80% of the population support joining the EU.

The showdown comes ahead of parliamentary elections in October, seen as a crucial test of the country's democratic transition more than three decades after it gained independence with the fall of the Soviet Union.
World leaders reacted to a ruling Friday by the U.N. International Court of Justice that Israel should immediately halt its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The decision intensifies international pressure on Israel regarding its assault on Gaza, but Israel has said it will not comply.

Reading the ruling, ICJ President Nawaf Salam cited exceptionally grave conditions for the extremely vulnerable population in Rafah.

He also expressed the court's doubts that Israels evacuation of civilians from the border city are adequate to "alleviate the immense risk the civilians are facing there.

In a joint statement, the offices of Israels prime minister and foreign ministry slammed the courts decision, calling South Africa's accusations against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague regarding genocide false, outrageous and disgusting.

Minister Benny Gantz, a member of Israels war Cabinet, responded to the ICJ decision by telling Israeli media that the military would keep fighting to return the nation's abductees and ensure the safety of its citizens.

"We will continue to act according to international law in Rafah and wherever we operate and make an effort to avoid harming the civilian population, not because of the Hague tribunal  but first of all because of who we are," he said.

The courts announcement comes a week after South Africa filed a case accusing Israel of genocide and requesting an emergency measure in Rafah to ensure the survival of the Palestinians.

The ICJ is the highest U.N. body for hearing disputes between states. Its rulings are final and binding, but they have been ignored in the past because the court has no enforcement powers.

Its decision, however, adds more diplomatic pressure on the Israeli government.

Richard Gowan, of the International Crisis Group, told VOA the ICJ ruling may allow the U.S. to put more pressure on Israel and Israel may try and win back a little goodwill by allowing some more aid into Gaza.

But I think that the Israelis have made it very clear all through the year that they will ignore any calls for restraint from the International Court of Justice, he added.

South Africa's international relations department on Friday hailed the ruling.

"South Africa welcomes the ruling made by the court today, said Zane Dangor, director-general of the countrys Department of International Relations and Cooperation. "This is de facto calling for a cease-fire. It is ordering the major party in this conflict to end its belligerent action against the people of Palestine.

Jordans Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi also hailed the ICJs decision.

"Once again, the ICJ exposes Israels war crimes in Gaza. And once again, the Israeli government reacts with disdain to international law, refusing to heed the courts orders, he said.

The European Union foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, also reacted to the ruling. "What is going to be the [EU's] answer to the ruling of the International Court of Justice that has been issued today? What is going to be our position? We will have to choose between our support to international institutions of the rule of law or our support to Israel."

This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognize a Palestinian state  Ireland, Spain and Norway.

Israel has previously described the ICJs case against its assault on Gaza as divorced from the facts. It has repeatedly dismissed the accusations of genocide as baseless, stating that its offensive in Gaza is self-defense and targets Hamas militants, who attacked Israel on October 7.

An Israeli government spokesperson said on the eve of Friday's decision that "no power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza."

A Palestinian Authority spokesperson, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, welcomed the courts decision, saying it represents an international consensus on the demand to stop the all-out war on Gaza."

Hamas issued a statement welcoming the decision but told Reuters the ruling fell short of recognizing that other parts of the enclave are under attack.

"We believe it is not enough since the occupation's aggression across the Gaza Strip, especially in northern Gaza, is just as brutal and dangerous," senior Hamas official Basem Naim said.

The United States, Israels main ally, has opposed Israels invasion of Rafah, where more than a million refugees were sheltering from clashes elsewhere. Some 900,000 have since fled Rafah, according to the Israel military.

On the battlefront, Israeli forces intensified their bombardment on Rafah on Friday, residents and medics said.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Russian forces have become "bogged down" trying to capture the northeastern border town of Vovchansk but fighting on the eastern front remains intense, Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrsky said Friday.

Kyiv has been battling a Russian land assault on its northeastern Kharkiv region since May 10, when thousands of troops stormed the border, making their biggest territorial advances in 18 months.

After initial success, "the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units," Syrsky said, but added that fighting near the eastern cities of Chasiv Yar, Pokrovsk and Kurakhove was "intense."

More than 11,000 people have been evacuated from the Kharkiv region since Russia began its new offensive two weeks ago, according to local governor Oleg Synegubov.

Syrsky's comments came as state-owned train operator Ukrainian Railways reported a flurry of strikes on Kharkiv region's railway system, damaging tracks, train carriages and buildings.

"The enemy continues to make deliberate attempts to stop the railway in Kharkiv region," Ukrainian Railways said on Telegram.

"At night, it struck civilian railway infrastructure again. The shelling damaged tracks, buildings, idle freight carriages and an electric train carriage."

The company shared photos showing smoke rising from a wrecked carriage, twisted metal and debris beside tracks and a depot with some blown-out windows.

Long-distance and suburban trains were running as scheduled, the state railway monopoly said, despite repeated Russian strikes on the network, which is vital for both civilians and the military.

Both sides have also accused each other of civilian deaths.

Strikes on the city of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest, killed at least seven people on Thursday, local authorities said.

Separately, Ukraine fired missiles overnight on the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula, killing two "chance passers-by," the Russian-installed head of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, said.
Humanitarians warned Friday that the situation in North Darfurs capital, El Fasher, is growing more dire by the day, as the states only functioning hospital has about a weeks worth of supplies left and as casualties mount.

The fighting has reportedly forced thousands of people to flee since 10 May and caused hundreds of civilian casualties, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

May 10 is when clashes erupted inside El Fasher between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), who are positioned inside the city, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who attacked surrounding towns before they entered the state capital.

According to Paris-based medical charity Doctors Without Borders, known by its French acronym MSF, at least 700 injured civilians arrived at that last operating hospital, known as South Hospital, in the past two weeks. Eighty-five of them have died.

"People are arriving with abdominal injuries, chest wounds, brain trauma, and open fractures, Claire Nicolet, MSF's head of emergency programs, said earlier this week in a statement. Some have gunshot wounds, some have been wounded by bomb fragments, and others have been wounded by shelling.

She said the hospital urgently needs more surgeons and supplies.

Humanitarians have been struggling for weeks to reach El Fasher, where at least 800,000 civilians are sheltering, many of them having been displaced from other parts of Darfur that have fallen to the RSF.

More than a dozen trucks carrying aid for more than 121,000 people have been trying to reach El Fasher for over a month, but the current security situation is making this all but impossible, Dujarric said.

He added that one World Food Program truck convoy carrying 1,200 metric tons of food and nutrition supplies for about 117,000 people was able to cross into North Darfur from Chad on Thursday, through the Tine crossing.

The government of Sudan reopened that crossing in early March, after closing it citing concerns that it could be used to supply the RSF with arms and ammunition.

Weapons accusations

The Sudanese government has repeatedly accused the United Arab Emirates of sending arms to the RSF via airports in Chad. On Friday, the Security Council met at Sudans request to discuss the matter. The meeting was private; Sudan would have preferred it be public.

Afterward, Sudans envoy said the UAE should be censured and condemned for its actions.

The UAE behaves like a rogue state, Ambassador Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed told reporters. It must be punished for invading Sudan through local and foreign actors and proxies.

He said those proxies include mercenaries from Chad, southern Libya and parts of the Sahel. Mohammed said the RSF is using arms from the UAE to kill and rape civilians, displace people and destroy the countrys infrastructure.

The UAE has repeatedly denied the accusations.

We are aware of the baseless allegations made against the UAE, which we have already addressed, including through letters to the Security Council, most recently of which was on 25 April, UAE Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab told VOA in a written statement.

We see the efforts by the representative of Sudan as another attempt to distract the Security Council from the atrocities being committed by the warring parties, including attacks on civilians, hospitals and schools, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid, he said.

A report published in January by a panel of experts mandated by the Security Council to monitor sanctions implementation in Sudan said the SAF has used aerial bombing and heavy shelling in urban areas of Darfur, causing a large-scale humanitarian crisis.

The panel also found that the RSF in July started using several types of heavy and sophisticated weapons that it did not have at the start of the war, in April 2023. The experts said this gave them a military advantage that let them quickly take over Nyala in South Darfur and El Geneina in West Darfur, while the RSFs new anti-aircraft devices helped them to counter the SAFs air force.

The panel said that various flight-tracking experts had since June observed numerous cargo planes originating from Abu Dhabi International Airport arriving at Amdjarass International Airport in eastern Chad, with stops in Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. They said information they gathered substantiated media reports alleging the aircraft carried weapons, ammunition and medical equipment for the RSF. The UAE told the panel that they were transporting humanitarian assistance for displaced Sudanese, not arms.
The United States and several allies issued a joint statement Friday voicing support for Taiwan to take part in the World Health Organizations World Health Assembly, which formally opens Monday in Geneva.

The World Health Assembly, or WHA, is an annual gathering in which member nations and states meet with health experts from around the world to discuss priorities for advancing global health and global health security.

Taiwan is excluded from most international organizations because of objections by China, which considers the democratically governed island its territory.

Delegates from Taiwan attended the World Health Assembly as nonvoting observers from 2009 to 2016, during a period of relatively warm ties between Beijing and Taipei.

The Beijing government has been blocking Taiwan's representation at WHO meetings since the self-ruled democracy elected Tsai Ing-wen, a China skeptic, as Taiwans president in 2016 and won the reelection in 2020.

Tsai rejects the Beijing governments condition that both sides belong under one flag. The two sides have been separately ruled since the 1940s.

The joint statement by the United States, Australia, Britain, Canada, the Czech Republic, Germany and Japan, and signatories said Taiwans participation in the assembly best exemplifies the WHOs health for all approach to international health cooperation.

The statement said the COVID-19 pandemic plainly illustrated viruses do not respect borders and it takes global cooperation to keep the whole world safe."

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier this month issued a separate statement strongly encouraging the WHO to reinstate an invitation to Taiwan to participate as an observer at this years WHA so the world may once again benefit from Taiwans expertise and experience.

Blinkens and other calls for Taiwans WHA participation prompted Chinas Foreign Ministry last week to issue a statement reiterating its position.

At a Beijing briefing, Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters, "Since the Democratic Progressive Party came to power in 2016, it has refused to recognize the 1992 consensus and stubbornly stuck to the 'Taiwan independence' separatist position, he said. Which means that the political foundation for the Taiwan region's participation in the WHA no longer exists."

The 1992 consensus holds that Taiwan and mainland China are parts of one China, with different interpretations of what China means.

Beijing interprets it as the People's Republic of China. Taipei interprets it as the Republic of China, Taiwans formal name.

At a news conference Friday in Taipei, Taiwan Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Ling said a delegation would travel to Geneva for meetings on the sidelines of the WHA with friendly countries.

Some information for this report was provided by Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
US President Joe Biden lavished Kenyan President William Ruto with more than just pomp and polish on his first state visit: On Thursday, Biden announced he would make the East African nation a major non-NATO ally  the first sub-Saharan nation to receive that status. The move signals the shifting of US security cooperation to East Africa right as US troops prepare to depart Niger. VOAs Anita Powell reports from the White House.
Three U.S. servicemembers suffered noncombat injuries in the effort to make a temporary pier off the coast of Gaza into a conduit for humanitarian aid, with one in critical condition at an Israeli hospital, U.S. officials said Thursday.

The injuries were the first for U.S. forces during the latest operation to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians.

The pier was announced by U.S. President Joe Biden in March, and the military assembled the floating structure off the coast. Estimated to cost $320 million for the first 90 days and involve about 1,000 U.S. servicemembers, it went into operation last week.

U.S. Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, told reporters that two servicemembers suffered "very minor, routine injuries" - a sprained ankle and a back injury. "Those individuals returned to duty."

A third servicemember, injured on a ship at sea, was medically evacuated to a hospital in Israel, he said. A U.S. defense official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the individual was in critical condition.

U.S. lawmakers have voiced concern about the risks of positioning U.S. troops off the coast of Gaza. Biden has said they will not enter the war-torn city.

The Pentagon has said it will prioritize the safety of U.S. military personnel.

"We're clear-eyed, and we continue to look at force protection all day, every day. And as it stands now, we assess the operations can continue," Cooper said.

Social media images showed a U.S. air defense system, known as the Counter Rockets, Artillery and Mortars (CRAM), firing into the sky while on the pier. U.S. officials said troops were testing the system.

Daniel Dieckhaus of the U.S. Agency for International Development said that since the pier opened last week, about 506 metric tons of aid had been handed off to humanitarian groups inside Gaza. About a third of that has not yet been distributed but will be soon, he said.
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May 20 marked Volodymyr Zelenskyys fifth anniversary as Ukraines president. By law, the president serves five years, but elections have been postponed while the country remains under martial law. Katerina Besedina examines Zelenskyys challenging term so far. Anna Rice narrates. VOA footage by Elena Matusovky.
US President Joe Biden lavished Kenyan President William Ruto with more than just pomp and polish on his first state visit: On Thursday, Biden announced he would make the East African nation a major non-NATO ally  the first sub-Saharan nation to receive that status.
Diddy. Photo: Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images

Fresh off the heels of a graphic video of an attack on Cassie Ventura being released to the public, Diddy is facing his seventh sexual-assault lawsuit, his second in this week alone, USA Today reports. Now, a woman is accusing the disgraced mogul of rape and battery over multiple alleged incidents after she met him as a Fashion Institute of Technology student in 1994. April Lampros filed the suit against Diddy, real name Sean Combs, in the New York County Supreme Court on May 23. It names Diddy; his label, Bad Boy Records; and Arista Records as defendants. Combs promised to mentor her and help her by introducing her to music and fashion industry executives as well as assisting her with finding work, the lawsuit reads. She felt that if she disobeyed him, he would take away her dreams of pursuing a career in his world. Mr. Combs would also threaten to blacklist her in the industry if she tried to mess with him in any way.

The suit details how Diddy allegedly love-bombed her and showered her with gifts and flowers during their early relationship, before he allegedly became violent, per USA Today. In the filing, Lampros accuses Diddy of raping her in 1995, along with an incident that took place in a car, which she claims a parking attendant witnessed. She also claims Diddy forced her and his girlfriend Kim Porter to take ecstasy and have sex together before he raped her in 1996, allegations that recall earlier claims made by Cassie, Lil Rod, and other accusers. An additional instance of sexual assault allegedly took place at her apartment in 2000 or 2001. The filing includes alleged photos of Diddy, Lampros, and a friend at Bad Boy Studios, together with an invite to a Fathers Day gathering and a Valentines Day card.

Lampross suit comes after a torrent of sexual-assault allegations made against Diddy this year, which began when Cassie filed a complaint against him in December, triggering a reported criminal investigation into the hip-hop mogul.
And, no, he will not re-releasing his original versions of the first Star Wars trilogy anytime soon, thank you. Photo: Sameer Al-Doumy/AFP via Getty Images

Sorry, fellow nerds, George Lucas has no intentions of releasing the original versions of the first Star Wars trilogy on home video anytime soon. When asked about it during a lengthy on-stage interview at the Cannes Film Festival, Lucas noted that theyd already been released on laserdisc and that everyone at the time said they looked terrible. (I can confirm this, but they looked awful because of the shoddy video mastering, not the actual source material.) He also insisted that the special effects on the original films were incomplete  movies get abandoned, they dont get finished he said, echoing Leonardo Da Vinci  and that part of his reasons for restoring, revising, and adding new VFX to them in the late 1990s was because he wanted to complete them the way he saw them. Im a firm believer that the director or the writer or the filmmaker should have a right to have his movie be the way he wants it, he added, sounding slightly more annoyed than usual.

None of this is news, of course. And Lucass wide-ranging chat at Cannes didnt exactly offer any revelations. Rather, it was a chance for the packed audience to sit in the presence of the man who made Star Wars for 90 minutes. (The wild standing ovation he received beforehand, complete with several rounds of boisterous cheers, confirmed this fact; it was by far the most enthusiastic applause Ive heard at the festival this year.) And the avuncular, soft-spoken Lucas was very much in character in his now-iconic leisurewear of checkered untucked shirt, loose and comfy pants, and big sneakers that look like well-used pillows. None of which should come as a surprise, but at a festival where security might tase you for wearing the wrong-colored bowtie on the red carpet, it was certainly notable. Well see if Monsieur Lucas will don the obligatory tuxedo for the festivals closing ceremony tomorrow night, where hes due to receive an honorary Palme.

Its always fun listening to Lucas recount his remarkable road to success and how he managed to maintain and build on that success. Hes always so matter of fact about it. We were never interested in making money, he said at the start of the conversation, talking about how New Hollywood filmmakers such as himself, his mentor Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and others managed to revolutionize the American movie industry. We just wanted to make movies. He then spent a good part of his 90-minute chat talking about money.

Not in a bad way, though. Lucas revolutionized licensing and merchandising on the first Star Wars, and he recounted how that was one of the keys to the films success. Licensing in those days did not exist because it took longer to build a toy than it did to make a movie, he recalled. He said that he spent the two years before the movies release going to Star Trek and comic book conventions with Star Wars posters and T-shirts, building up interest in the film among a core audience of genre devotees. When the film finally opened in 1977, its struggling studio, 20th Century Fox only released it in 32 theaters, because its board of directors hated it. When the lines started going around the block, they expanded it to more than a thousand screens, an unprecedented number for that time.

Lucas expounded to the audience at length about the difference between net profits and gross profits (in short: net profits, which only kick in after shady studio accountants deduct all sorts of real and imaginary costs, are useless, while gross profits are where you make real money), and about how he managed to finagle gross profits on Star Wars after only getting net profits on American Graffiti. He also discussed how he managed to secure sequel rights to the first Star Wars because his original script was so long and hed cut most of it out. He also knew that the studios initial contempt for the film, coupled with the fact that Fox was about to be sold anyway, meant that they didnt care about the sequel rights.

Lucas also talked at length about his friendship with fellow Cannes attendee Francis Ford Coppola, who transformed his career at several points in their early years. It was Coppola who suggested that Lucas stick with him during the making of Finians Rainbow (1968), at a time when Lucas had decided he was bored with being on film sets and intended to try his hand at animation instead. Later, Lucas joined Coppola on the tiny crew for his low-budget road movie The Rain People (1969), as they traveled across the country improvising locations and scenes. (Lucas didnt discuss the excellent short documentary about Coppola that he made during this time, called Filmmaker: A Diary, but you should check it out if you havent.) At the end of that shoot, Lucas told Coppola he intended to go back to San Francisco and make short experimental films. Coppola told him to write a feature length script instead, which he promised to produce.

That 1971 debut feature, the Robert Duvall-starring THX-1138, actually played at Cannes, in the Directors Fortnight sidebar. The studio wouldnt pay his way to France, so Lucas and his sound editor Walter Murch (who was also present during his Cannes talk this year) pooled their money and went to Cannes on their own, where they had to buy tickets to see their own movie. Lucas recalled that some years later, a reporter at Cannes asked him why he skipped the press conference for THX-1138. We didnt know there was a press conference! Lucas exclaimed.

After THX-1138 failed to recoup its cost, the studio asked for its money back. Desperate for funds, Coppola took on the job of directing The Godfather. When Lucas asked how he could help, Coppola suggested he write a comedy. If you want to make a movie, dont make one of these artsy sci-fi whatever, he recalled Coppola saying. I dare you to make a comedy. Which is how Lucas came to write American Graffiti, whose incredible success gave him the clout to make Star Wars.

Lucas recounted that after Universal executives first saw American Graffiti at a preview screening, they hated it. The screening was packed, and the audience had loved the film, but he recalled Lew Wasserman, the head of the studio, coming to him and Coppola after the screening and telling them they should be ashamed of the film. Francis got very mad at him, he said, and we were having this big fight in the back of the theater. Francis said, How dare you? This kid almost killed himself making this movie, shooting it in 28 days and nights. How dare you at least not say it was an interesting movie?

Afterwards, Lucas and Coppola slowly started having more preview screenings, always with a packed, receptive crowd, slowly making their way back to the film division executives, who eventually changed their minds. American Graffiti would go on to become the third highest grossing release of 1973, and, given its low budget, probably one of the most profitable pictures of all time. It set Lucas up to make Star Wars on his own terms. And then keep making it, sequel after sequel.

But that was Hollywood then, Lucas said. Ive been retired for 10 years. Im not sure what its like now.
Photo: Eric Mcnatt/Eric McNatt

A decade ago, Eric McNatt made a portrait of Kim Gordon for Paper magazine. He was paid $100. Working for Paper has never really been about the money; you get to do something cool with someone interesting, and it often pays off in other ways. This portrait  black and white, austere but playful, with the rock stars arms folded  instead led to him feeling like he was ripped off by a famous artist, Richard Prince, and betrayed by Gordon herself. What resulted was eight arduous, intrusive years of litigation ending in a judgment with a $450,000 payment from Prince to McNatt.

I knew McNatt when we were much younger, but I hadnt seen him in decades. Over those years, a career as a writer or photographer in whats left of the magazine business had become a more or less volunteer activity for many. I came in at the tail end of an industry where I got paid well for the work, McNatt said. I did for almost 15 years make a living as an editorial photographer. But those days dont exist anymore.

Around the time of the Paper shoot, Prince, who became rich and famous appropriating other peoples images (Marlboro ads, pulp-novel covers, a skeevy nude portrait of an underage Brooke Shields), had been introduced to Instagram by one of his school-age children. Prince had the idea that, to show how stupid we all are for being glued to our phones and showing off for each other, he would screengrab other peoples Instagram posts (most often, they were of fetching young women), add his own nonsense commentary as a literal commenter on the post, then produce poster-size inkjet prints of them. That is just what he did with the portrait of Gordon after McNatt posted it on Instagram.

Photo: Eric McNatt; NYSD. Photo: Eric McNatt; NYSD.

Princes exhibitions of these metaworks at Gagosian in 2014 and Blum & Poe in 2015 were called New Portraits. The Gordon piece sold for $90,000.

I was like, What the fuck am I going to do with this? I was having my own personal health issues and my mom was going through a lot and it was just too much, so I let it go, McNatt said.

Then Gordon posted a picture of herself holding the McNatt-derived Prince piece on her own Instagram in 2016 with the caption So thrilled thank you @richardprince4. I lost my shit, McNatt said.

Kim Gordon was basically stabbing me in the heart with that post, he said. It was hard to see someone that I know recognizes art and champions artists, someone I idolized and looked up to my entire childhood and teenage years, then acting like you dont exist? That hurt a lot.

McNatt decided to sue.

Everyone involved here is still an outsider punk kid in their own mind. Gordon, once an artist and gallery employee living on Eldridge Street, went to hide from art in the music world and ended up a counterculture star. Prince, now described by his lawyers in court as one of the most important, internationally recognized contemporary artists, is still the guy who watched his art-world friends all get famous in the 80s while his work lingered in Barbara Gladstones basement  not rich and famous until well into his 40s, he still carries that chip on his shoulder. Gordon and Prince were friends; he made the cover of the Sonic Youth album Nurse.

McNatt is from Austin and moved to New York via San Francisco in the 90s, shooting for mainstream mags and music labels, a part of a queer bohemian cohort that, loosely, included the novelist Alexander Chee, the playwright Jorge Ignacio Cortinas, the choreographer Miguel Gutierrez, and the performer Justin Vivian Bond. This is partly why he shot for places like Paper: There was a continuity between his world and that of the previous generation of artists like Gordon. Downtown people see themselves that way forever, somehow in it together as outsiders, whatever their personal fortunes. Maybe thats why it felt so bad.

Prince is doing his small part to leave a legacy of litigation around American copyright. At the same time, a steady tide of other cases around art, copyright, and fair use have recently come to various but not particularly clarifying ends.

Princes best work can be childish and hilarious and also austere and wistful. A series of paintings secretly done in disappearing ink hit right at the heart of the power of collectors and dealers by evaporating off their walls. His games feel less successful in work like the Instagram series: Intended to criticize social-media titans and our own behavior on their platforms, it can feel like he is punching down instead.

It certainly felt that way to McNatt. He found a photographer named Donald Graham, who was suing Prince over another work in the same series, and reached out to that artists lawyer, Christopher Davis at Cravath. Cravath took on McNatts litigation pro bono in part to help clarify certain issues in copyright law, using students at Columbia Law School to kick around early ideas.

I was really interested in what the public perception of the litigation would be, Davis said. When Napster hit, the idea at that time, for younger people in particular, seemed to be that everything is free. So I suspected so-called digital natives might rally behind Prince, behind the idea that copyright is an outdated thing. I was pleasantly surprised when that did not seem to be the reaction.

Reading the case over now, years pass in a blink. At one point, a lawyer leaves for a new job and then returns to his original firm, rejoining the case. Too many people are spending too much time on this, the judge said at one point. Arguments of all kinds are made: Lawyers for Prince assert that Instagrams terms of service grant a non-exclusive implied license, supposedly allowing anyone to make use of any photo posted on Instagram, an innovative interpretation of which entity those terms are intended to benefit (actually Instagram itself, of course). By 2018, the parties had already discussed settlement. McNatt was deposed; the lawyers tore through McNatts own Instagram history to dredge up every time hed posted an image by another photographer.

Gordon, for her part, let it be known that she believed McNatt had no rights to her image and was unhappy when he licensed the photo for another $100 to Vogue: Ms. Gordon has unequivocally stated that she did not and will not provide McNatt permission to further exploit her image, Princes lawyers wrote; the copyright, of course, is McNatts.

Apart from that, much of their narrative was persuasive, though little of it felt good. Princes lawyers said the works were natively different categories of things, because the market consumed the Prince work at nearly 1000 times more than the amount of the McNatt work.

When that stuff started rolling in, it hurt, but theres a part of me that had to say its true, McNatt said. He also felt the stakes grow as the years went on. He turned 50; the pandemic came; his computer had to be forensically examined. I knew that if I lost my shirt  if, for instance, he had to pay years of lawyers fees for Prince  I would have to declare bankruptcy, he said. Ive been poor my whole life. What am I going to lose?

He had to look at every job hed ever done over decades. He was able to track the decline of his fortunes, his art career held together by a rent-controlled East Village apartment. Even though it was difficult, I could really see how my life shaped itself, he said. Who would he be now? As the case ground on, he began photographing for nonprofits, and he took on teaching at FIT. This work made him feel happy and creative again.

In late 2022, the judge wrote an extensive analysis of the case. The only real input by Prince was he said that he wanted to make them more fun. The judge looked at the actual pieces and said it isnt evident theres much commentary here, based on a few pithy captions, said Scott Burroughs of Doniger Burroughs, an IP firm in Venice and New York that often represents photographers as copyright plaintiffs and wasnt involved in this case.

I did not decide as a matter of law that Princes use was not fair. I simply decided that I could not, as a matter of law, decide that it was fair, the judge explained in mid-January as they prepared for a trial date, at last, this March. That would be a jurys job.

Gordon was on the witness list. Wealthy art collectors and dealers would parade in. Prince would likely not testify, which was, for him, for the best: When he speaks, he sounds like the very stereotype of the careless, elitist, marauding artist.

And then, on the eve of trial, it all went away; Prince and McNatt agreed on payment terms and language and everyone abruptly went home.

Princes Kim Gordon piece had been purchased by a collector and sometime actor named Alexander DiPersia and/or his mother. When news of the abrupt end of the case came in, DiPersia posted just a corner of the piece, with what looked like caution, on his own Instagram. The caption wished Prince congrats.

The lack of a trial created a sudden vacuum in the relationship between the parties. With no further forum for their passions, and a lifetimes worth of otherwise billable hours expended, the conflict continued in the press, something we tend to encourage.

In my mind, this icon of appropriation art has finally been held responsible. All the things, except the jury checking the box, we got in the judgment, said David Marriott, the Cravath litigation partner on McNatts case. Would a trial have splashed more publicly? Yeah, sure. Defendants would have had an even harder time trying to spin the outcome as just another favorable settlement.

It is completely understandable that plaintiffs counsel would be disappointed in the judges legal rulings before trial and attempt to spin the result, said Brian Sexton, who represents Prince. Sadly, this is the world we live in now. No one ever admits defeat in sports, politics, or the law anymore, despite what the scoreboard says.

This is a very pro-art victory, I believe, Cravaths Davis said. You will be rewarded for your original creations. There is a line there. Fair use is an exception to copyright  not the other way around.

We are extremely pleased with the ultimate outcome of this case and that there was no negative or regressive ruling on the fair use doctrine that could be used to chill free speech and dissuade artists, especially young and emerging artists, from making new art, said Sexton.

Of course, none of this had to happen. Theres a system in place to address that type of work, which is the licensure system, said Burroughs. All you have to do under that system is contact the originator of this work. And Im sure everyone would have been happy. But thats boring, and Richard Prince would never. Artists and lawyers alike love mess.

Cases exist because of people, said Claudia Ray, a partner at Kirkland & Ellis in the firms IP department. And people will always think of new things. Thats what copyright is designed to protect. Its not a field thats ever going to be boring.

But did this case matter? Im sure its a case thats going to be cited, Ray said. You can look at it and say, This looks like our case or doesnt look at our case. But does it answer any questions we have about fair use? None of them do. Thats the nature of the beast.

McNatt had to hire a financial adviser for the first time in his life. $450,000  even less all the fees, of course  was a lot of money for him, if maybe not so much for Prince.

Journalists like to say that people should never seek emotional satisfaction from the courts. What if were wrong? I know that I moved the dial on this, McNatt said. It might have been an inch. It might have been two inches. It was important for me for there to be something to build on for the next person.
A local's guide to the best events and things to do in Rome in June.

June is one of the best times to visit Rome as the temperatures are usually warm but not scorching and many events at night are held outdoors. The month is bookended by two public holidays, with plenty happening in between in the Eternal City.

Here are some tips for the best things to do in Rome in June 2024.

Festa della Repubblica

Frecce Tricolori flying over Rome. Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com.



June kicks off with the Festa della Repubblica, a national public holiday, which falls on a Sunday this year. Now in its 78th edition, the annual event commemorates the day in 1946 when Italians voted in favour of a republic and against the monarchy. Rome will host a military parade near the Colosseum and a fly-past by the Frecce Tricolori jets which emit plumes with the colours of the Italian flag. Another novely on 2 June is the free opening of state museums and archaeological sites including the Colosseum where firefighters will unfurl a giant Italian tricolour.

Strawberry festival in Nemi



The 91st edition of the annual strawberry festival takes place in the town of Nemi in the Castelli Romani, just south of Rome, on Sunday 2 June. The popular Sagra delle fragole begins at 10.00, leading up to the main event - the distribution of free strawberries - at 18.00. The day-long festival is enlivened with numerous parallel events, including live music, flower shows, exhibitions and kids events.

Caracalla Festival



Rome's opera house stages more than 60 events at its summer festival among the ancient Roman ruins at the Baths of Caracalla, from 3 June until 10 August. The Caracalla Festival spans 60 evenings under the stars and incorporates a range of genres including opera, symphonic music, dance, theatre, cinema and pop concerts. This year the festival is dedicated to the great Italian composer Puccini, on the centenary of his death, with productions of Tosca and Turandot among the highlights.

Viaggio nel Foro



Ancient Rome comes to life thanks to the Ancient Rome comes to life thanks to the Viaggio nel Foro di Cesare project, a multimedia display screened at the Forum of Caesar every night this summer. The show uses videomapping technology to conjure up portrayals of life in Rome at the time of Julius Caesar, with commentary available in eight languages including English. Spectators enter the archaeological area near the base of Trajan's Column before making their way through a tunnel under Via dei Fori Imperiali to the Forum of Caesar.

Cinema under the stars

Cinema in Piazza. Photo Zero.



Film fans can look forward to watching movies on the big screen under the stars again this summer with the return of Film fans can look forward to watching movies on the big screen under the stars again this summer with the return of Il Cinema in Piazza . The 10th edition of the free festival takes place from 1 June to 14 July in three different locations. In addition to its base at Piazza S. Cosimato in Trastevere, the festival will return to Parco della Cervelletta in Rome's eastern Tor Sapienza suburbs and Monte Ciocci park at Valle Aurelia. Films are screened in their original language with subtitles in Italian, while Italian movies are shown with subtitles in English.

Summer music festivals

Auditorium Parco della Musica, Cavea. Photo credit:  Musacchio & Ianniello.

Many of the city's most-anticipated concerts this summer are part of various music festivals including the Roma Summer Fest based at the open-air Cavea venue at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. The festival includes acts such as The National (3 June); Glen Hansard (25 June) and Simple Minds (27-28 June). Rock in Roma also offers a multi-genre programme featuring Italian and international artists based mainly at the Ippodromo delle Capannelle, while the Stadio Olimpico hosts several concerts this summer including three shows by Ultimo (22-24 June). Russell Crowe will also perform two concerts in Rome at the Forum Theatre on 26 and 27 June.

Rose garden

For a peaceful experience amid a sea of colour head to the city's rose garden on the slopes of the Aventine Hill. Home to around 1,200 varieties of botanical, ancient and modern roses from all over the world, the Roseto Comunale can be visited every day from 08.30 to 19.30 until 16 June. Visits are free and no reservation is required.

SS Pietro e Paolo

Rome celebrates its patron saints Peter and Paul with a public holiday in the Italian capital on 29 June. The annual event includes a religious procession at the Basilica of St Paul's Outside the Walls and an infiorata floral display in front of St Peter's. However the main attraction for most people is the spectacular fireworks display, known as the Girandola, in the sky over Rome celebrates its patron saints Peter and Paul with a public holiday in the Italian capital on 29 June. The annual event includes a religious procession at the Basilica of St Paul's Outside the Walls and an infiorata floral display in front of St Peter's. However the main attraction for most people is the spectacular fireworks display, known as the Girandola, in the sky over Castel S. Angelo at 22.30. The idea of Michelangelo, perfected by Bernini, the tradition dates to the 15th century.

Cover photo: Daniele de Gregorio / Shutterstock.com.
WATERFORD CITY & TRAMORE

Pat Heffernan, Dunmore Road, Waterford, and late of Passage, who was called from this life on Friday, May 17. His remains were removed from Tom Hennessys Funeral Home, Johnstown, on Monday, May 20, to the Island Crematorium, Cork, followed by private cremation service on arrival.

Tom Manton, Dunmore East, Waterford, who passed away on Saturday, May 18. His remains were removed from Tom Hennessys Funeral Home, Johnstown, on Tuesday, May 21, to Our Ladys Church, Carbally. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to Carbally New Cemetery.

Michael Nunan, Ferrybank, Waterford, and late of Mullinabro, Kilmacow, who died on Saturday, May 18. His remains were removed from Powers Funeral Home, Ferrybank, on Monday, May 20, to the Sacred Heart Church, Ferrybank. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on Tuesday, May 21, to the adjoining cemetery.

Luke 'Lukey' Mulrooney, St. Ursulas Terrace, Waterford, who was called from this life on Sunday, May 19. His remains were removed from Falconers Funeral Home, Tramore, on Thursday, May 23, to the Sacred Heart Church, the Folly. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to Kilbarry Cemetery.

Margaret Peggy Curran nee Aulsberry, Tramore, Waterford, who passed away on Saturday, May 18. Her remains were removed from Falconers Funeral Home, Tramore, on Tuesday, May 21, to the Holy Cross Church, Tramore. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the adjoining cemetery.

Marian Croke nee Griffin, Leamy Street, Waterford, and late of Avondale, who died on Saturday, May 18. A private cremation took place on Tuesday, May 21.

Nicholas Nick Revilles, Sexton Street, Waterford, and late of Rochdale, England, who was called from this life on Tuesday, May 7. A private cremation took place in England with interment of ashes in St. Otterans Cemetery at a later date.

COUNTY WATERFORD

Maurice Power, Clonea Power, Waterford, who was called from this life on Friday, May 17. His remains were removed from Walshs Funeral Home, Carrick, on Tuesday, May 21, to St. Coan and Brogan Church, Clonea Power. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the adjoining cemetery.

Maurice Condon, Ballinamult, Waterford, who passed away on Friday, May 17. His remains were removed from Drohans Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Tuesday, May 21, to St. Laurences Church, Fourmilewater. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the adjoining cemetery.

Phil Donnelly, Dungarvan, Waterford, who died on Monday, May 20. Her remains were removed from Drohans Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Thursday, May 23, to St. Marys Church, Dungarvan. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the adjoining cemetery.

Michael Cunningham, Cappoquin, Waterford, who was called from this life on Tuesday, May 21. His remains were removed from Walshs Funeral Home, Cappoquin, on Thursday, May 23, to St. Marys Church, Cappoquin. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on Friday, May 24, to Modeligo Cemetery.

Denis Burns, Lismore, Waterford, and late of Dublin, who passed away on Saturday, May 18. His remains were removed from Ryans Funeral Home, Lismore, on Thursday, May 23, to St. Carthages Church, Lismore. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival to St. Carthages Cemetery, Lismore.

Brian Watters, Ring, Waterford, and late of Dublin, who died on Tuesday, May 21. His remains were removed from Drohans Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Sunday, May 26, to St. Nicholas Church, An Rinn. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the New Cemetery, Ring.

Eilish Kiely, Ring, Waterford, who was called from this life on Tuesday, May 21. Her remains were removed from Drohans Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Monday, May 27, to St. Nicholas Church, An Rinn. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the New Cemetery, Ring.

Jimmy Kearns, Kilmacow, Waterford, who was called from this life on Wednesday, May 22. His remains were removed from Doyles Funeral Home, Kilmacow, on Sunday, May 26, to St. Senans Church, Kilmacow. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the adjoining cemetery.

Paschal Skehan, Ballyneale, Carrick-on-Suir, who passed away on Thursday, May 23. His remains were removed from Walshs Funeral Home, Carrick, on Monday, May 27, to Ballyneale Church. Burial took place after funeral Mass, which was celebrated on arrival, to the adjoining cemetery.
Cillian Sherlock and Cate McCurry, PA

Israel is misrepresenting the views of Ireland, Taoiseach Simon Harris has said.

His comments come after he confirmed on Wednesday that Ireland will formally recognise the state of Palestine from May 28th in a joint move with Norway and Spain.

In response, Israel has warned there will be severe consequences.

Ireland, if your goal was to reward terrorism by declaring support for a Palestinian state, youve achieved it.@SimonHarrisTD, Hamas thanks you for your service. pic.twitter.com/mgz7ZGtnCi    Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) May 23, 2024

Irelands ambassador in Israel, alongside her Spanish and Norwegian counterparts, was called to the Israeli foreign ministry for a reprimand.

As part of a severe demarche, the three ambassadors were shown videos of Hamas carrying out kidnappings.

The Israeli foreign affairs minister, Israel Katz, claimed Ireland and Mr Harris had rewarded terrorism.

Discussing the reprimand on Thursday, Mr Harris said Irish ambassador Sonya McGuinness was doing an excellent job representing the views of Ireland.

Eamon Ryan, Simon Harris and Micheal Martin at the press conference on Wednesday (PA)

He said: Any foreign ministry can call in any ambassador but what I will not tolerate is any country misrepresenting the position of the Irish people.

I am the leader of the Irish Government, I speak on behalf of Ireland, and we have been clear and unequivocal that we condemn Hamas, that we condemn the most horrific, barbaric massacre that Israel experienced on the seventh of October.

We call for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages.

But it is entirely possible to say what I have just said and also say the next bit  which sadly some refuse to say  that what is happening in Palestine, what is happening in Gaza, is a humanitarian catastrophe.

That children are being starved, are being deprived of food and that there are children who will go to sleep in Gaza tonight not sure if they will wake in the morning.

This situation is not sustainable. It needs to stop.

I have no intention of being in any way, shape or form distracted from the immediate need for a cessation of violence in the Middle East; the need for the release of the hostages for humanitarian aid to flow unimpeded and unhindered; and the need for a peace settlement.

Speaking on CNNs Amanpour programme, Mr Harris added: And I can say this to the people of Israel: We recognise the state of Israel.

Simon Harris with former UK prime minister Gordon Brown at the inaugural Child Poverty and Well-being Summit in Dublin on Thursday (Brian Lawless/PA)

We recognise the state of Israels right to live in peace and security.

That is their right. The people of Palestine also must have an equivalent right to peace and security.

He added: And let me also say this to the people of Israel. The Irish people know what its like to have their national identity hijacked by a terrorist organisation.

The IRA was never the people of Ireland, and Hamas is not the people of Palestine.

Earlier, Mr Harris said the aim of the recognition of Palestinian statehood was to build a momentum towards a peace process with Israel.

Speaking in Dublin on Thursday, Mr Harris was asked about the warnings issued by Israel.

He said: I had a very good conversation with the president of Israel (Isaac Herzog) last Friday. It was firm but respectful.

We exchanged views and I outlined the Irish position, so I dont think anyone in the world, least of all Israel, would have been surprised by the decision that Ireland, Norway and Spain took yesterday.

I fundamentally believe that it is the right decision. It is an effort to try and create momentum towards a peace process that may seem far away, but is absolutely and essentially needed.

A two-state solution is the only way to bring peace and stability to the people of Israel and the people of Palestine.
Access, transport and housing issues dominated discussions at the Local Election Hustings, hosted by the Irish Wheelchair Association at their premises in Waterford last week.

Attended by nine of the local election candidates, the event gave people with disabilities the opportunity to have their say on the issues that matter to them, and to let those seeking a seat on Waterford City and County Council know about them.

IWA's National Advocacy Manager Joan Carthy (Front, 2nd right) pictured with the nine candidates and some of the IWA members who attended Monday's Local Election Hustings, hosted by Waterford IWA

The candidates who attended were Maoliosa Ni Chleirigh (GP), Patrick Curtin (PBP), Frank Conway (IND), Darren Ryan (IND), Monica Murphy (FG), Cllr Thomas Phelan (LAB), Cllr Seamus Ryan (LAB), Mairead McKnight (LAB) and Cllr John Pratt (LAB).

Issues raised included the need for a crossing at the top of Cleaboy Road to facilitate people who use Irish Wheelchair Association Services when they get on and off the bus.

Some of the attendance at the Local Election Hustings, hosted by Waterford IWA

Members also cited that Waterford is not very accessible for wheelchair users, and the urgent need for accessible transport from villages into Waterford City or Dungarvan and around the local areas was highlighted.

For people with disabilities living in Waterford, housing, as is the case nationally, is also a massive issue, and there is a severe lack of wheelchair liveable houses to buy.

Member Ann OGrady who attended the Hustings said: I want to hear what candidates are going to do to help disabled people if elected instead of hindering them for a change.

"I would like to see the council facilitating more car parking for people with disabilities and give some thought to traffic lights for wheelchair users crossing the road. When I am in my manual chair on a wide road, I usually only get halfway across the road before the lights change.

The Hustings was chaired by IWAs National Advocacy Manager Joan Carthy who said: Its important that people with disabilities are part of the conversation in the run-up to polling day on June 7.

"This platform gives candidates the chance to outline what they will do to improve life for people with disabilities if elected but also gives our members the opportunity to advocate for the issues that really affect them.
Celebrated internationally acclaimed author Colm Toibin will be in attendance at Dungarvan Library in County Waterford at 7pm on Thursday, June 13.

Toibin, who is the current Laureate for Irish Fiction, has released a new book, Long Island, and will be in conversation with Mary Conway, Waterford City and County Librarian.

Long Island is the much-anticipated sequel to Toibins 2009 novel, Brooklyn, which was also adapted into a film in 2015.

In Long Island we see Eilis and Tony living a happy, secure life in Long Island 20 years on from the ending of Brooklyn.

When a stranger with an Irish accent knocks on Eiliss door however, she turns towards Ireland once again and the life she left behind.

A spokesperson for Waterford Library service told Waterford News & Star that in his follow-on to the best-selling and prizewinning Brooklyn: We see Toibin at his best, a master of deeply moving scenes full of quiet restraint.

The author of 11 novels to his name including The Magician, The Master and Nora Webster.

The cover of 'Long Island', by Colm Toibin

He has also been shortlisted for the Booker Prize three times, was winner of the International Dublin Literary award for The Master and has won both the Costa Novel award and the Impac Award.

He has published two collections of stories and many works of non-fiction.

Toibin is also the Irene and Sidney B. Silverman Professor of the Humanities at Columbia University and was named Laureate for Irish Fiction for 2022-2024, by the Arts Council of Ireland.

Commenting ahead of the forthcoming event, Mary Conway said she is looking forward to the evening.

I am delighted to welcome Colm Toibin to Waterford and to Dungarvan Library, and look forward to discussing his wonderful writing with him, she said.

It is sure to be an insightful conversation, she added.

Toibin will also discuss his inspirations including Henry James, his creative processes and the machinations of writing.

As the current Laureate for Irish Fiction, he will also speak about Irish writers and the new generation of writers representing Ireland.

The event will be free of charge to attend, however, booking is required through Dungarvan Library on 058 21141.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. On the 24th of May, the head of the Milli Majlis Working Group on Interparliamentary Relations with the Czech Republic, Elnur Allahverdiyev, sent a letter of protest on behalf of the Group Members to the members of the Czech Republic-Azerbaijan Interparliamentary Friendship Group of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Parliament, Trend reports.

The letter states that the remarks made by the Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Parliament, Jan Bartosek, during a meeting with the Ambassador of Armenia, Ashot Hovakimyan, caused deep regret among the Members of the Azerbaijan-Czechia Interparliamentary Relations Working Group of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

It is noted that the one-sided comments made by Jan Bartosek not only do not reflect the truth but also contradict the spirit of friendship and cooperation that has emerged and proved itself in recent years between the parliaments of Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic. It is also pointed out that Mr. Bartosek seems to be unaware of the true reasons for the history of the past conflict, as well as the new realities that have emerged in the region in the last 3 years and the peace agenda between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The remarks of the Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the friendly country of Mr. Bartosek undermine healthy cooperation and friendly relations between our countries.

The letter states: The Working Group on Interparliamentary Relations with the Czech Republic informs Mr. Bartosek that 20% of the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan remained occupied by Armenia for 30 years. During that period, Armenia had plundered and destroyed settlements belonging to Azerbaijanis, annihilated and falsified historical and architectural monuments, and desecrated religious sites belonging to Azerbaijan. The entire world, including Armenia itself and Mr. Bartoseks own country, the Czech Republic, have recognised this territory as an integral part of Azerbaijan. In such circumstances, the open disregard by the Deputy Chairman of the official position of his own state on this issue or the deliberate distortion of facts is bewildering and deeply regrettable to us.

It is indicated in the letter that the Members of the Milli Majlis Working Group on Interparliamentary Relations-Czechia deplore the statement made by Mr Bartosek and hoe that he will correct the political error he has made.

In conclusion, the letter contains a request that the viewpoint of the Working Group should be communicated to the leadership of the Chamber of Deputies of the parliament of Czechia.
Waterford musician Echo Northstar, aka Paddy Hennessey, has released a beautiful new ambient song, titled 'Murmur'.

The song's release was followed by a haunting appearance on the Youtube show Lips2Ears, which platforms up and coming musicians from across Ireland.





WATCH: Have a listen to Echo Northstar's performance here

The channel's Car Boot Sale sees musicians play their songs from the back of a car. Echo Northstar played three of his songs out the back of the titular car boot, in the dark environs of Phoenix Park, Dublin.

He released his single 'Waking Up' earlier this year, which received rave notices for its haunting, plaintive sound and melancholy lyrics.
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 Western Star butter, Perfect Italiano, Mainland and Bega cheese: the brands Australians have loved and eaten for decades are up for sale. Fonterra, the New Zealand-based processor behind the dairy products, has announced it is looking to exit Australia, and has put the retail brands and its assets  eight manufacturing facilities  on the market to focus solely on their food service and hospitality business. For many in the industry, the announcement is not a surprise. Fonterra has been talking about the potential of divesting all or part of the Australian business probably for the last two years, said Dairy Farmers Victoria president Mark Billing, a fourth-generation dairy farmer. Mark Billing is a fourth-generation dairy farmer. Credit: Jason South If I was supplying to Fonterra right now, Id just be a little bit concerned about whats the future for the company, whats the future for the milk pool that Im supplying into. Fonterras impending exit makes it the latest domino to fall in Australias dairy sector, which has been consolidating and shrinking over two decades as local processors struggle to maintain viable profit margins and stay globally competitive, leaving a gap for cheaper imported butter and cheese to flood the market.

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Fonterra has been a key player in shaping  and, some would argue, damaging  the landscape of Australias dairy industry. Fonterra bought full ownership of Victorian farmer co-operative Bonlac Foods in 2005 during a period of intense consolidation in which many other farmer co-operatives, such as Dairy Farmers, Warrnambool Cheese & Butter (Cheer, Cracker Barrel cheddar), Tatura Milk, were gobbled up by bigger players. Loading Today, the dairy industry is dominated by the big four: Bega, Saputo, Fonterra, and Lactalis. Together, they represent more than 80 per cent of the nations milk processing. For many dairy farmers, Fonterras news is bittersweet: the New Zealand giant has left a sour taste in many mouths. In 2016, Murray Goulburn (which was taken over by Saputo the following year) unexpectedly slashed the price it paid for milk in a move that outraged farmers  and was mimicked by Fonterra a week later. They were paying reasonably well at the farmgate, but 2016 brought a lot of that goodwill undone, said Billing, whose family stopped supplying Fonterra 18 months after the move. There is a bit of angst out there with some people who got burnt by Fonterra. Farms went to the wall, families were put under a huge amount of pressure. The milk price cuts led to the creation of the ACCC-enforced dairy code of conduct and sparked a class action against both processors that was eventually dropped for Murray Goulburn but led to Fonterra paying out 350 farmers in a $25 million settlement.

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Industry observers expect that Fonterras competitors Saputo and Bega, which licenses its brand to Fonterra, are best poised to take a look under the hood. Fonterra Australias brands include Perfect Italiano, Mainland and Bega. Credit: James Brickwood But acquisition may not be straightforward and could require the approval of the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) and the competition regulator. Bega and Saputo are potentially going to have more headwinds around regulator approval because theyve already got big market share, said Rabobank senior dairy analyst Michael Harvey. Its a big transaction. Itll fundamentally change the look and shape of the industry  It would be one of the biggest acquisitions or sale of a dairy company since Murray Goulburn was sold to Saputo. How did we get here? Over the decades, farmers have faced multiple setbacks in the form of natural disasters such as drought and flooding, the effects of climate change and supply chain complications that emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic that pushed up the price of essential input costs such as feed, electricity, fuel and fertiliser.

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All this has dampened the ability of farmers to invest in their operations: the average cost of a natural disaster comes to about $1.4 million per farm, according to a recent farmer wellbeing survey by Norco and the National Farmers Federation (NFF). Business in Australian dairy is not easy, said Norco chief executive Michael Hampson. Its not a high-margin game by any stretch of the imagination. Grocery retailers have also played a role in keeping consumer milk prices low. Supermarket giants Coles, Woolworths and Aldi introduced $1-a-litre milk around 2011, and the price of private-label milk didnt budge until 2019. In 2016, many Victorian dairy farmers exited the industry after the federal governments response to that years drought was to initiate a water clawback plan in the Murray-Darling Basin, impacting water availability for farmers. The Murray-Darling Basin Plan has removed about 400 million litres of milk out of Victoria, just because of buybacks and water reforms, said Billing. Thats impacting communities up there as well, its not just the dairy farms. On top of that, dairy farmers keen to invest and expand their operations are faced with an unfriendly environment. The price of farmland has tripled in the past decade and hit record highs in 2023, according to Rural Bank. Fierce competition with farmers of other industries, such as beef and sheep, and difficulty obtaining loans has made it harder for dairy farmers to expand. Dairying land is also being purchased by Canadian superannuation funds and turned into timber plantations, Billing observed, reducing the amount of land dedicated to producing food. The result has been a shrinking milk pool and dwindling exports. In 2004, Australias dairy industry produced 11 billion litres of raw milk, which fell to 9.3 billion in 2014, according to data from the Australian Dairy Products Federation (ADPF). The current season is estimated to fall around 8.3 billion.

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In the past 18 months, more than 10 dairy processing facilities have announced closures. Norco is now the last fully farmer-owned dairy co-operative. The amount of milk that was bought and processed by 100 per cent farmer-owned entities has gone from probably 85 per cent to just Norco, Hampson said. Norco CEO Michael Hampson is at the helm of Australias oldest dairy co-operative. Three of the big four dairy processors are foreign-owned: Fonterra is New Zealand-based, Saputo is Canadian, and Lactalis is French. Bega is an ASX-listed $1.3 billion entity. Hampson says farmers are only one group of stakeholders among several that these corporations must juggle. For all these other [entities], its about offshore shareholders  and obviously requirements to pay dividends to those people, which means the motivations at play arent necessarily what they used to be 25 years ago, about supporting the farmer. Its about corporate profits, Hampson said.

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Conversations around the nature of stalking have reached a new, if temporary high thanks to the Netflix series Baby Reindeer. It has been the streaming channels top program for the last month in more than 70 countries and the sensational prod for a plethora of news stories, not least the Piers Morgan Uncensored interview with the alleged real-life female stalker depicted in the series.

One of the less-discussed aspects to the streaming phenomenon has been how writers and artists can be quite predatory creatures themselves. During Sydney Writers Week, it may even give authors pause to question how they make use of so-called lived experience and their story to tell. Although I remain sceptical of many a writers desire to give pause to anything in this era of righteous confessionals, other than a book-length celebration of how finely they exist in the world.

In all the discussion of stalking Baby Reindeer has provoked, no one has discussed how writers themselves can be predatory - but what are they hunting?

Novels of narcissism  otherwise known as the art of modern memoir  have become the de rigueur formation for prose and poetry provocations that rarely get beyond the depth of padded-out opinion columns and victimology therapy sessions.

Who needs to worry about the dangers of AI  or what Noam Chomsky described as hi-tech plagiarism and a way to avoid learning  when identity marketing and career opportunism are undoing writers by choice, and the entire literary and media industries into the bargain. Sadly, consumers seem to want this, insofar as books and films are increasingly targeted to the purely affirmative spins they supposedly demand, part of the great thinning out of not only who we are but who we might struggle to be.
Last Sunday, I took my mother to church and committed many sins.

First I parked illegally, in a School Bus Only spot. Does it compound the sin if youre rehearsing your excuses before you even get out of the car? There are no school buses on Sundays; it was the only spot to get my mobility-restricted mother into the church; the organist, whose music we had come to hear, had told us to park there. None strictly a lie, but none a fully compelling truth either, not least so close to the eye of God.

Disabled parking: the blue stickers are meant for people with a disability. Credit: iStock

But we had a trump card: the space, though designated for buses, was marked what I like to call disability blue, and we had The Sticker.

Mum has one of the 417,000 mobility stickers currently issued in NSW. For her it is permanent, for me just for a day, and its empowerment was quickly going to my head. Sunday was Pentecost, when the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and, in the earlier Judaic version, Moses had received the commandments. Today they might opt for the blessing of The Sticker.
A heritage-listed house in a prime position at Kangaroo Point will go to auction on Saturday, once again putting Brisbanes luxury property market to the test.

Rockfield, at 19 Leopard Street, was built about 1890 for coal merchant Captain Daniel McGregor, and has endured several owners. On its 1100 square metre block, the stately house still has views across the Brisbane River to the CBD and beyond.

Rockfield, illuminated in the foreground, is next to another heritage-listed house, Home, at the rear. Credit: Place

Underneath its northern sight-line sits a modern mansion, at 1 Leopard Street, which was thought to have set a city record when it sold for $15 million in 2021.

Rockfield hasnt changed hands since 1997, when it sold for $455,000. Its five bedrooms, three bathrooms, living areas and verandas have since been updated.
A mother has been found guilty of forcing her 20-year-old daughter to marry an older man before he murdered the young woman.

Sakina Muhammad Jan, from Victorias north, faced a two-week trial in the County Court after denying she coerced her daughter into marrying the man from Western Australia in 2019.

She was charged with causing a person to enter into a forced marriage.

Ruqia Haidari was murdered in her Balcatta home by her husband, Mohamed Ali Halimi, two months into their arranged marriage.

Prosecutors said Ruqia Haidari had told her mother she did not want to marry Mohammad Ali Halimi and accused Jan of handing her daughter over to him in exchange for a $10,000 dowry.
Two women and a man have died after reports of gun fire at a Floreat home on Friday afternoon.

About 4.30pm, a man in his 60s attended the home on Berkeley Crescent where a woman in her 50s and another in her late teens were present.

Three people are dead after a shooting in Floreat on Friday afternoon. Credit: Nine News

The man killed the older woman and critically injured the younger woman, before killing himself.

A large number of police resources were deployed to the area including the Tactical Response Group and specialist detectives.
London: Two polarising political figures, both on opposite ends of the ideological spectrum, had long threatened to cast a shadow over Britains general election.

The presence of Nigel Farage and Jeremy Corbyn, adored and detested by their respective tribes in equal measure, promised to pull the Conservative and Labour parties away from the centre.

But for once, it was Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had the slightly better news on Thursday.

Nigel Farage, former leader of the Brexit Party, arrives for the launch of Popular Conservatism in London. Credit: Bloomberg

Not long after Farage, a leading figure in the Brexit referendum, ruled out standing for the right-wing populist Reform party as a candidate, it was Corbyn  dumped as a Labour candidate  who flagged hed enter the race as an independent.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office rejected the allegations in the case brought by South Africa that Israel was carrying out genocide in Gaza as false, outrageous and morally repugnant. Israel is acting based on its right to defend its territory and its citizens, consistent with its moral values and in compliance with international law, it said in a statement. The internationally recognised Palestinian Authority said it represented a global consensus that the war must end, although presidential spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh said it did not go far enough because it did not halt fighting in other parts of Gaza. Senior Hamas official Basem Naim told Reuters: We call upon the UN Security Council to immediately implement this demand by the World Court into practical measures to compel the Zionist enemy to implement the decision.

Senior Hamas official Basem Naim said: We call upon the UN Security Council to immediately implement this demand by the World Court into practical measures to compel the Zionist enemy to implement the decision. Israel launched its air and ground war on Gaza after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israeli communities, killing around 1200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. More than 35,000 Palestinians have since been killed in the offensive, Gazas Health Ministry says. World reaction Other Israelis also responded with outrage. Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that those demanding Israel stop the war were also demanding that it cease to exist, which Israel would not agree to. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid called the order a moral collapse and a moral disaster for failing to link the demand to halt fighting to a demand that Hamas free hostages.

Josep Borrell, the European Unions top diplomat said: What is going to be the [EUs] answer to the ruling of the International Court of Justice that has been issued today, what is going to be our position? We will have to choose between our support to international institutions of the rule of law or our support to Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated that the administration does not believe a major offensive would achieve the results that Israel is looking to achieve, which is to deal effectively and durably with Hamas. Our concerns about a full-on military assault in Rafah remain, he said. We have other ways of dealing with the challenge posed by Hamas that we believe can be more effective and more durable. Australia believes Israel should abide by the courts binding ruling saying its military assault in southern Gaza must stop, a senior minister says. Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said Australias position on Rafah is crystal clear, describing the situation there as a humanitarian disaster that has the scope to get worse.

We have been very consistent that Rafa should not be attacked, he said in Sydney. We are very consistent that the binding rulings to the ICJ should be abided by all parties, including Israel. The Zionist Federation of Australia has previously said the Australian government should reject the courts ruling. The order was handed down a week after it was requested by South Africa as part of its case accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention enacted following the Holocaust. Israels legal team at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands. Credit: AP

The ICJ, based in The Hague, is the highest UN body for hearing disputes between states. Its rulings are final and binding but have been ignored in the past, as the court has no enforcement powers. Israel has repeatedly dismissed the cases accusations of genocide as baseless, arguing in court that its operations in Gaza are self-defence and targeted at Hamas militants who attacked Israel on October 7. An Israeli government spokesman said on the eve of Fridays decision that no power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza. Israel started its armoured attack on Rafah earlier this month, forcing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee a city that had become a refuge to around half of the populations 2.3 million people.

Rafah, on Gazas southern edge, has also been the main route in for aid, and international organisations say the Israeli operation has cut off the enclave and raised the risk of famine. Israel says Rafah has served as the last redoubt for thousands of Hamas fighters and their senior commanders, and it cannot achieve its war aim of wiping out the Islamist militant group and rescuing its hostages without storming the city. So far, fighting has taken place on Rafahs southern edge and eastern districts, but Israel has yet to begin an assault on the citys main populated area. Its closest ally, the US, has repeatedly called on it not to do so, saying Israel has yet to show a credible plan for how this can be done without causing mass casualties among the displaced people sheltering there. Emergency measures South Africas lawyers had asked the ICJ last week to order an emergency halt to the operation in Rafah, saying it must be stopped to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people.

Loading South Africa has also sought an order for Israel to end its entire wider war in the Gaza Strip, although the court has repeatedly held back from taking such a step. Fridays decision came days after the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court  a separate court also based in The Hague  announced he had filed an application for arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as leaders of Hamas. Prosecutor Karim Khan accused Netanyahu and Gallant of crimes including extermination, using hunger as a weapon and deliberately attacking civilians. Israel denied those charges and called on allies to repudiate the court. South Africas wider case at the ICJ accuses Israel of orchestrating a state-led genocide against the Palestinian people. The ICJ has not ruled on the substance of that accusation but has rejected Israels demand to throw the case out.
On May 13, 2024, Xalq Bank participated in the syndicated loan facility for Turk Eximbank (Turkiye Ihracat Kredi Bankas A.S.) totalling $728m equiv.

The loan will be used in accordance with ESG standards, which refer to the principles of environmental, corporate governance and social responsibility.

The syndicated loan project involved 34 lenders from 14 countries. Xalq Bank's participation in this project is significant in terms of strengthening interbank relations with the banks of the Republic of Turkiye.

Established in 1987, Turkiye Ihracat Kredi Bankas A.S., is a fully state-owned bank acting as the Turkish governments export incentive instrument in Turkiyes sustainable export strategy.

Xalq Bank was founded in 2004 and ranks as one of the Top-3 privately owned banks in Azerbaijan in terms of its key financial and market indicators.
Hundreds are feared dead after a massive landslide flattened dozens of homes and buried families alive in a remote village in northern Papua New Guinea (PNG) early on Friday, a resident said.

More than 50 homes, many with people still asleep inside, were buried when the landslide hit Kaokalam village about 3am, villager Ninga Role told Reuters by phone. The death toll was nearly 300, among them his brother and cousin, he said.

The ABC and PNG media reported that more than 100 people had been killed.

One man who turned back to try to save his two children was buried along with his extended family, Role said.
Following WCO capacity-building and technical assistance, the reports of the end-to-end Time Release Study (TRS) of the Oshoek-Ngwenya land border were jointly published by Eswatini and South Africa on 20 May 2024. The support took place under the WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, as funded by the United Kingdoms His Majestys Revenue and Customs (HMRC), as part of the Programmes multi-year partnerships with Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) and South African Revenue Service (SARS) for effective implementation of the World Trade Organizations Trade Facilitation Agreement.

The coordination between Eswatini and South Africa underscores the importance of the Oshoek-Ngwenya border as the busiest land border post between the two countries and as a gateway for trade flows within the Southern African Customs Union and transit cargo routes to the port of Durban. The Oshoek-Ngwenya border, the largest SACU border post, handles over 50% of Eswatini's cross-border trade and 8% of South Africa's land border cargo. An extensive line of waiting trucks at the border was the direct trigger for the joint TRS between the two countries. Given its high trade volume, any improvements here would have a substantial impact on the overall efficiency of trade within the region.

The ERS Commissioner General, Mr. Brightwell Nkambule, celebrated the actionable insights highlighted by the TRS report to enhance clearance process efficiencies and deliver substantial benefits to traders. The SARS Commissioner, Mr. Edward Kieswetter, recognized the TRS as a demonstration of what can be achieved when there is sufficient goodwill between partners. He said: It is now my wish that we can scale this up as an important intervention for the benefit of all our SACU partners.

A broad base of stakeholders attended the launch, including representatives of the TRS Technical Working Groups, the Eswatini National Trade Facilitation Committee, and the private sector.

The WCO Deputy Secretary General, Mr. Ricardo Trevino Chapa, underlined in his video message that the TRS is to be not a one-time exercise but is ideally to be conducted at regular intervals and across various border posts as a data-driven diagnostic and a performance measurement tool. He noted that the countries can conduct future TRS with the capacity built of their established Technical Working Groups. In this light, he also appreciated the support from national TRS specialists from Namibia and Zambia in the spirit of peer-to-peer exchange and learning under the Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme.

The reports key recommendations related, for instance, to the feasibility of a One-Stop Border Post and enhancing pre-clearance. During the occasion, Mr Beyers Theron, SARS Director of Customs Border Operations, announced an envisioned No-Stop Border Post for compliant traders. Furthermore, Maj. General David Chilembe of South Africas Border Management Authority hailed the TRS launch as a Call to Action and stated, It demonstrated our commitment to transparency, efficiency and international best practices.

The British High Commissioner to the Kingdom of Eswatini, Mr. Simon Boyden, expressed his gratitude: We would like to thank all members of the TRS technical working group for their commitment to the project and congratulate you all upon the launch of the report. We hope the report will serve as a useful step in identifying areas for improvement in trade facilitation for both Eswatini and South Africa and will be a significant step in promoting innovative reforms and ultimately higher volumes of trade.

The WCO looks forward to its continued partnerships with ERS and SARS under the Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme for sustainable development and economic growth through an enhanced business-enabling environment.

For more information on the Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, please see here.

For more information on WCO capacity building, please contact Capacity.Building@wcoomd.org.
Karachi: May 20, 2024 - The World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretariat launched the Customs Enforcement Curriculum for Pakistan (CECPAK) Project to enhance Pakistan Customs' security and enforcement capabilities over the next two years. Since 2020, Pakistan Customs has received support from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the U.S. Department of State, which funds WCO Secretariat activities under the Customs Enforcement Curriculum for Assistant Collectors (CECAC) and CECPAK Projects. Mr. Jimmy R. Mauldin, Acting Consul General of the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi, emphasized INLs commitment to modernizing Pakistan Customs.

Building on the success of phases one and two of CECAC Project, CECPAK aims to train the next generation of Pakistan Customs officers. This includes Assistant Collectors, middle managers, front-line officers, and investigators, including front-line mentoring.

The kick-off ceremony, held at the Pakistan Customs Academy in Karachi, was officially opened by Director Ms. Nawabzadi Aliya Khanji, the WCO Secretariat, and Acting Consul General Jimmy Mauldin with a review of the project's activities and past achievements. The first two-week CECPAK training course started immediately after the kick-off ceremony, with a focus on evidence collection, seizures, and investigation processes, with WCO experts and Pakistan Customs personnel.

Like its predecessor, the CECPAK Project is conducted by the WCO Secretariat under the Customs Operational Practices for Enforcement and Seizures (COPES) Programme. This new Project aims to implement best practices for seizing goods and collecting evidence, ensuring effective border security and prosecutions. It is a collaboration between the WCO, INL, and the Pakistan Customs Service.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations Louis Bono is traveling to the South Caucasus region over the next few weeks to discuss U.S. support for the peace process and how best to reach a durable and dignified peace, the US Embassy in Azerbaijan told Trend.

"Mr. Bono plans to meet with key stakeholders to support the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process. He will visit both Azerbaijan and Armenia. We stand ready to assist in any process that brings peace and stability to the people of the South Caucasus," said the embassy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Transnational corporations (TNCs) are pivotal players in modern international relations, exerting influence across different parts of the globe, often without overtly highlighting their activities. Consequently, the role of TNCs is frequently overlooked when analyzing events in a particular region.

To illustrate the considerable influence of TNCs and major logistics companies on global events, particularly in the transportation of goods and energy via land and sea routes, crucial for the modern world, let's examine the following table. This table compares the market capitalization of APPLE with the GDP of several countries, including some within the top ten globally, based on the latest GDP statistics available.

APPLE 2.86 trillion Country GDP Canada $2.117 trillion Italy $2 trillion Brazil $2.163 trillion South

Korea $1.72 trillion Russia $1.862 trillion

Therefore, it becomes evident that the economic reach of certain companies surpasses even that of major world powers.

According to Trend, the South Caucasus stands out as a significant region for the operations of TNCs. This region encompasses Azerbaijan and Georgia, pivotal countries along the historic Great Silk Road trade route. Presently, Georgia grapples with widespread protests triggered by the adoption of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence by its parliament in its final reading. However, it begs the question: who benefits from instability in Georgia? Is the narrative solely framed between the West and Russia? Despite the apparent dominance of political dynamics in shaping the current landscape, one must not disregard the sensitivity of economic elites and transnational corporations towards developments in strategic regions, particularly those with transit roles. Nations marked by instability and frequent tensions inherently pose risks for TNCs and major shipping and logistics firms.

Events unfolding in certain countries have the potential to reshape the landscape of international transportation. Consequently, global economic elites and transnational corporations, detached from national affiliations and often operating autonomously from states, may support protests in select nations, thereby endangering or altering the stability of transportation networks.

So, which major TNCs are active in the South Caucasus? Consider Maersk, the international logistics giant, which operates in 130 countries worldwide, employing a workforce of 95,000 individuals. With a current market capitalization estimated at $25.18 billion, Maersk specializes in transportation, port operations, supply chain management, and warehousing. Renowned for its extensive range of services, Maersk stands as a leading global player in maritime transportation.

Figure 1: The Suez Canal and its alternative route through the Cape of Good Hope

Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc

Following the Houthi attack on a vessel owned by Maersk in the Red Sea, the company halted its operations in the region and altered its course. Instances like this, sparked by political conflicts, whether pertaining to maritime or terrestrial transportation, inevitably disrupt the flow of cargo transport. Over recent times, there has been a decrease in global shipping activity through the Suez Canal, prompting companies to seek alternative routes, such as navigating via the southern African mainland to reach Europe.

This shift results in escalated transportation and insurance expenses for goods and services, along with delays in delivery timelines. The incident in the Red Sea has also underscored the significance of the Middle Corridor for international logistics firms, acknowledging it as a vital strategic route in Eurasia.

Without a doubt, Maersk faces competition from other players in the industry. Hence, one cannot dismiss the possibility that both nations and major corporations may have a hand in the events that occasionally trigger such disruptions.

Source: Wikipedia

Transnational corporations wield substantial financial clout, enabling them to influence events across various regions globally. This alone underscores their capacity to utilize their budgets, often surpassing those of many nations, to sway political and economic elites or shape media narratives, as exemplified in the context of the South Caucasus.

With the advent of the New World Order, TNCs began to feature prominently in academic theoretical discourse as key players in international political dynamics. Initially nascent, their influence has since surged, reaching unprecedented levels in recent decades and profoundly impacting global processes.

Consequently, these corporations not only vie with each other akin to nation-states but also compete against them. In regions or nations where the power of the nation-state is robust, TNCs find it challenging to achieve their objectives through destabilizing tactics. Conversely, in regions with weaker nation-states and institutions, TNCs can exploit greater maneuverability to exert significant influence, as evidenced by the dynamics unfolding in countries within the South Caucasus currently.

Thus, it is misguided to solely interpret ongoing protests in South Caucasus nationsGeorgia and Armeniaand their indirect repercussions on Azerbaijan through the narrow lens of governmental-oppositional or Western-Russia struggles. It is plausible that these developments unfold within a framework of competition to advance the strategic interests of global corporations.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Crossmolina

Lotto

Congratulations to Mick and Lorraine Cleary, Carrowkilleen, Crossmolina, who scooped the Crossmolina Deel-Rovers GAA Club lotto jackpot prize of 11,700 when they matched the four winning numbers 10, 11, 20 and 22, on Saturday, May 11 last in The Tatch Bar. This latest jackpot in the draw held on Saturday, May 18, was 3,000. Many thanks for your continued support.

Crossmolina win by two points

Crossmolina made the long journey to Louisburgh on Saturday of last week a successful one with this hard earned two points win over the hosts. The Deel-siders lead at the break by four points 0-9 to 0-5 thanks to a string of points from Fionan Duffy, James Maheady, Paddy Leddy and Diarmuid Walsh. Louisburgh scores came from Kevin Gibbons, Darren Lally, Kieran Jennings, Padraic OMalley and Oisin Lally. The crucial score, a goal, came in the third quarter from Diarmuid Walsh and with the west Mayo boys piling on the pressure late with Mark Gibbons, Dylan Reynolds, Kieran Jennings and Oisin Lally all putting their names on the score sheet, Crossmolina were struggling to hold on to their lead and were delighted to hear the final whistle. The final score was Louisburgh 0-15, Crossmolina 1-14.

Crossmolina team and scorers; JP Mulhern, Fearghal Duffy, Kevin Mulhern, Matthew Gordetskyy, Diarmuid Fox, Cathal Carolan, Aaron Coggins, Dara Syron, Mickie Loftus, Conor Caden 0-1, Fionan Duffy 0-6, Niall Coggins, James Maheady 0-4, Paddy Leddy 0-1, Diarmuid Walsh 1-2. Subs; David Howley for Conor Caden inj, Stephen Duffy for Diarmuid Fox, Killian Fergus for Cathal Carolan Inj, Barry Murphy for Kevin Mulhern.

County U16 league game

Crossmolina we most unlucky to lose this very entertaining County U16 league game in Tiernans Park on Monday of last week. A late goal from the South Mayo side in injury time secured them two valuable points. The final score was The Neale 2-12, Crossmolina 1-14.

Crossmolina team and scorers; Georgie Gordetskyy, Aaron Rodrigues, Joseph Heffernan, Gavin Lavelle, Dara Floyd, Eanna OBoyle, Peadar Fergus, Ethan Reilly 0-3, Joe Loftus, Dylan Keane 0-1, Dylan Davelle 0-4, Tom Burke 0-1, Aaran Donnellan 0-2, Aaron Keane 1-1, Conor Howley 0-2, Subs; Paul Granahan for Tom Burke, Ruari McGuinness for Peadar Fergus, Joseph Howley for Gavin Lavelle, Brendan Donnelly for Dylan Lavelle, Evan Molloy for Aaron Rodrigues.

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Killala

Community Centre lotto

The numbers drawn in the Killala Community Centre lotto held on May 8 last were; 21, 26, 27 and 30. Consolation prizes went to Mary Whyte, Goretti Donnelly and A. Scott. The jackpot for May 15 was 6,750 and the numbers drawn were, 9, 14, 17 and 24. There was no jackpot winner on the night. The jackpot this Wednesday, May 22, is 6,800. Tickets are sold locally.

Meals on Wheels

Killala Community Centre provide a Meals on Wheels service to senior citizens or anyone in need of the service. The two course meal can be either collected at the centre for 7 or delivered to your home for 8. They deliver in the Killala, Lacken, Cooneal and Kilfian areas. Anyone interested contact Barbara or Mary for more information on 096 32992.

Community Bus

The Killala Community Bus services are available as usual. Call 096 32166 to book a place. A bus timetable is available to pick up at the Killalal Community Centre.

Killala Festival

A Mardi Gras parade is being organised as part of Killala Live festival this August. If you would like to get involved the organisers are looking for individuals, groups and clubs to take part in this colourful celebration of local community. They would also like your help making costumes, floats etc. Telephone or text Una Morris at 087 6684526 or email morrisquinn@hotmail.com if you wish to get involved.

Thank you

Mikie and Marian Walsh extend thanks to all who supported the Alzheimers Tea Day which they held in their house recently, to those who called to the house and to those who sent a donation. A total of 730 was raised and it will be sent to the Western Alzheimers head office in Ballindine. Your support is much appreciated.

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Moygownagh

Community Employment

Moygownagh Community Employment Scheme have vacancies and DEASP criteria applies. For further information contact 096 31066.

Moygownagh Ramblers

The next meeting of the Moygownagh Ramblers will be held on May 30, in Moygownagh Learning Forum commencing at 7pm.

Carn NS fundraiser

A clothing collection fundraiser in aid of Carn National School will take place on Monday, May 27. Bags can be dropped off at the school on Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24. All donations will be appreciated.

Activator Walking with Poles

Mayo Activator Walking with Poles Programme will take place in Moygownagh Community Centre on Tuesdays from 1-2pm. The Activator Poles Programme is a fun outdoor activity suitable for adults who are looking to improve their fitness and health in a social and supportive environment.

Knit Night

A Knit Night will take place in Moygownagh Learning Forum on Thursday, May 23, and anybody interested in knitting are all welcome commencing at 7.30pm.

Church Grounds

Due to dog fouling on the church grounds and recent fouling and digging on graves, people are asked not to bring or allow dogs onto the church grounds. If anybody is visiting the cemetery, make sure that the gate remains closed at all times.

Darias Daycare

Darias Daycare are now taking enrolments for September 2024. Hours are 9am to 12 noon. Contact Raidi on 083 0797586 or email dariasdaycare@gmail.com for enquiries.

First Holy Communion

Congratulations to Carn NS children who celebrated their First Holy Communion at the weekend. Well done to Eimer, Ella Mae, Isabelle, Jamie, Keeva, and Mia.

50/50 draw

Congratulations to Patricia Orme, the winner of the 50/50 draw which was held on May 12 last. The next draw will take place on May 26.

Pioneer Pilgrimage

A pioneer pilgrimage to Lourdes flying from Knock, will be held from July 18 for 5 nights with full board in Hotel Agenda. The Spiritual Director on the pilgrimage will be Fr Joe Delaney. The cost is 859 per person. Booking with full payment by mid- June. For more details contact Fr Delaney on 087 6660408.

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Ballycastle

GAA

Congratulations to Matthew Burke last week's winner of 206 in the 50/50 draw. Tickets are available in John Burkes, Healy's Bar, Seaview Lounge, Donnelly's Village Store, Belderrig Community Centre or online at https://www.lottoraiser.ie/ballycastle.

The weekly card game continues on Tuesday nights at 9pm in the clubhouse.

Lough Derg

The three day pilgrimage to Lough Derg Sanctuary of St Patrick 2024 begins on Friday, May 31, and continus until Thursday, August 15. The cost is 80 per person.

Lake shore pilgrimage takes place on Sunday, May 26, until Sunday, September 1, costing 25 per person. Booking is advised by contacting 071 9861518.

Pilgrimage to Lourdes

The Killala Diocese Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from July 18-24, costing 929 per person. For enquiries and booking contact 01 2410800. Limited availability in assisted section is available and for further details contact Eileen at 086 4013897.

Community Hall

Ballycastle Community Hall is available to hire for all functions. For all hall or gym bookings contact 086 0667192.

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Bonniconlon

Lotto

The numbers drawn in the Bonniconlon lotto held on May 11 last were 14, 29, 34 and 35. The 40 prize winners were as follows: Michelle Murphy, The Acres, Killala; Annie-May Reape; Geraldine Glacken, The Glebe, Ballina; Margaret Walsh; and Laura Greavy, Kilgarvin, Bonniconlon. The latest draw was held on May 18, for a jackpot of  11,600. Play on line at; www.bonniconlongaa.com.

Recent wedding

Congratulations and every good wish for the future to Sinead Ruane and Darren Durkan who were married recently in Bonniconlon, and congratulations to both families on this joyous occasion.

Recent deaths

Your prayers are requested for the happy repose of the soul of Mary Howley, Cloontia, who was laid to rest during the week. May she rest in peace.

First Holy Communion

Congratulations to all the sixteen children who celebrated their First Holy Communion. May God be there beside you, on this and every day, and forever love and guide you as you go along lifes way.

Bonniconlon Post Office

An information leaflet has been delivered to every household in the parish and its surrounds detailing the range of services available on your doorstep through the Post office. Lets all support and retain this important community service ensuring its ongoing viability. Lucia and Sinead will be only delighted to meet and serve you.

Health Assistant vacancies

RHS Home Care is a non-commercial home care provider bringing professional home care services to those who need assistance to remain living in their own homes. RHS Home Care are now recruiting new healthcare assistants in the area and would love to hear from you.

Potential applicants must have the required QQI Level 5 (two modules completed care skills and care of the older person). Email your CV to jobs@rhshomecare.ie or call Aoife on 090 662 5988.

World Orienteering Day

Celebrate World Orienteering Day with a free, family friendly event at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough Park, Castlebar, from 11am to 2.30pm on Saturday, May 25. Learn about map reading and navigation skills on an orienteering course around the grounds of the Museum, in association with ATU Castlebar campus. It is suitable for all ages and all fitness levels. Drop in at any time between 11am and 2.30pm. Visit www.museum.ie for further details.

Bulletin notes

Notices for the parish bulletin can be emailed to cebonniconlon@gmail.com on or before each Wednesday.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Azerbaijani border guards have taken control of four liberated villages in Gazakh district, the statement of Service of the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev said, Trend reports.

Following the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, to ensure liberation from occupation of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili villages of Gazakh district of the Republic of Azerbaijan, following the results of the 8th meeting on April 19, 2024, between 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.

In order to implement the above-mentioned protocol, based on geodetic measurements on the ground and the coordinates of the borderline, a clarification was carried out and a Technical Protocol on the results of joint field works was drawn up, containing a protocol description of the passage of the relevant borderline.

The 9th regular meeting of the commissions on the border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia was held on May 15, 2024, where the above-mentioned Technical Protocol was agreed upon and the relevant protocol of the commissions was signed.

As a result of delimitation works, the 12.7 km border line was determined, thereby ensuring the return to Azerbaijan of the territories (6.5 square kilometers) of four villages in the Gazakh district of the Republic of Azerbaijan: Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili.

The territories of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili villages in the Gazakh district of the Republic of Azerbaijan were taken under the control of the State Border Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan today, the statement says.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The military personnel of the Azerbaijani Military Police Department hold combat training classes under the training plan for 2024, Trend reports via the Ministry of Defense.

The delegation led by the Chief of the Military Police Department of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Georgia, Colonel Shalva Shengelia, who is on a visit to Azerbaijan, watched the combat training exercises.

First, the leadership of the leadership of the Defense Ministry delivered to the military personnel the requirements and instructions regarding the better organization of the commandant service activities of the military police units and increasing vigilance, as well as the organization of interoperability with the relevant state bodies.

The personnel of the military police units involved in the combat training classes were instructed to organize patrolling at checkpoints, protect military facilities, direct the movement of military vehicles, and ensure the safe movement of convoys.

Then the personnel put on alert moved towards the designated points in convoy.

According to the plan of the classes, the tasks of neutralizing terrorists, freeing captured civilians, providing first aid to the wounded, and their evacuation were accomplished with high professionalism.

During the training classes, the main focus was on ensuring the safety of the civilian population in areas of hostilities, the release of prisoners and hostages, as well as improving activities in accordance with the requirements of the Geneva Conventions in the treatment of war prisoners.

In the end, a group of distinguished military personnel was awarded.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Border troops of the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia will officially take over the guarding of the state border of the Republic of Armenia in the Tavush region starting on May 24, 2024, Trend reports.

According to the National Security Service of Armenia, the state border protection of the 5.8 km section of Kirants settlement will be carried out by a transitional scheme until July 24, 2024.

Additionally, it was noted that from May 24 of this year, the State Border Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan will guard the border sections from the side of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

To note, the 9th regular meeting of the commissions on the border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia was held on May 15, 2024, where the above-mentioned Technical Protocol was agreed upon and the relevant protocol of the commissions was signed.

As a result of delimitation works, the 12.7 km long border line was determined, thus ensuring the return to Azerbaijan of the territories (6.5 square kilometers) of four villages of the Gazakh district of the Republic of Azerbaijan: Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili, which today were taken under the control of the State Border Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

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A drought of political will

South Africans are still fighting for the right to basic water supply as enshrined in the Bill of Rights.

Water is life; it is also a weapon of political and social control making this scarce natural resource one thats increasingly reliant on strong democracies to ensure that it is competently managed, fairly accessed and distributed, and mindfully conserved.

The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Professor Mucha Musemwa, is an environmental historian. Water for him is a liquid history and a mirror of the flows and consumption that follow the contour of social stratification. Musemwa says that colonialism and apartheid were marked by injustices and discrepancies in how water was  and still is  either made available or restricted depending on race, gender, geographical location and wealth.

With the dawn of democracy came the promise of access to water as a basic right. It became a social and environmental justice issue. Underscoring this consciousness, the Water Act of 1998 was enacted to democratise access to this critical resource.

But at the 30-year mark of democracy, Musemwa flags a different kind of threat to water and human rights.

Conflicts and tensions

Even before we think about water as what some people believe will be the reason for the next world war, we should be thinking about conflicts and tensions over water at a local level. We need to ask why we are experiencing service delivery protests and demonstrations over water outages and water leaks, why we have cholera outbreaks, water shedding, and a water mafia causing artificial water shortages in some areas, he says.

Musemwa calls out incompetent leadership. He adds: It is a case of not having the right kind of leadership dedicated to resolving problems. The South African government is complicit in perpetuating inequities, as it has taken very little action against corrupt officials who siphon off resources earmarked for water and sanitation development.

Democratising natural resources

The story of water and its precarity at this point in our democracy should be a reminder that, more than ever before, the role of elections, robust legal frameworks and the Constitution do matter, Musemwa says. As he points out, water flows into everything from the unresolved land issue, food security, the levelling of economic opportunities in the agricultural and forestry sector and our ability to better withstand the mounting climate change pressures.

Professor Tumai Murombo is a Law Professor and former director of the Mandela Institute in the Wits School of Law. He says that the unequal access and unequal distribution of water remains an agenda topper, 30 years into democracy, but its also deeply complex.

Balancing access to water, food security, environmental sustainability, and dealing with historical injustices is a fraught exercise. Water law, politics and policies are issues shaped by the global economic system. We see inequalities at a micro level, we can see them at a regional and national level, but these are amplified at the level of global economies, technology development, and intellectual property rights regimes, Murombo says.

He adds that South Africa is still experiencing a chaos of transition with competing economic interests in a polarised political space. He highlights the key sticking point which is the issue of the historical water use licenses granted mainly to commercial, white-owned farms by the previous regime. They remain lawful, but without a clear policy approach of how they are to be adjusted for fairer water use allocation, these entitlements remain heavily skewed and keep historically disadvantaged groups locked out.

There will be delays and trade-offs, challenges and pushbacks in a democracy  using the very democratic Constitution and laws, but it means practically that we arent making big enough strides forward, he says. Proposed amendments to the 1998 National Water Act are still out for public comment and will grind through Parliament this autumn. The proposed amendments are critical for the reallocation of water resources and for curtailing existing users. He adds that there is also a dearth of specialised legal expertise in the country, creating more delays.

We are not where we should be. We do have the foundational legal framework, and some experience but implementation remains hesitant and poor. It might take five or 10 years more, but we will get a greater degree of legal certainty in how we reallocate water resources more fairly, he says.

Active citizenry

For Professor Craig Sheridan, another critical pillar alongside legal frameworks and policies is for South Africans to be better active citizens taking personal responsibility to be strong stewards of water use and conservation. We cannot ignore that safe drinking water coming out of a tap has travelled a long journey. Water, he says, is a renewable resource but one thats also easily wasted and polluted.

Sheridan, who is based in the School of Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies and is the Co-Director of the Centre in Water Research and Development, says that active citizenship means doing a more deliberate job of holding authorities to account when it comes to delivery. He says: The situation right now is that we are not even playing catch-up. We are in deficit in terms of things like the maintenance of pipelines and national planning for water security for a growing population. We also need a secure supply of water that is not linked to treaties with our neighbouring countries that can be torn up when we have weak leadership and governance.

Sheridan says that citizens need to demand the exercising of political will and competence. We also need to keep up pressure to make planning and investing in water security a priority, as well as the desalination and reclamation of wastewater to potable water. Ultimately he says that citizens have to engage with democracy as a safeguard to keep water from becoming a tipping point issue.

Upgrading and replacing infrastructure in terms of water, roads and sanitation just makes sense because the alternative is possible mass civil unrest, he says.

Sheridan says that outrage is growing and was palpably demonstrated this past summer when parts of Johannesburg  the economic heartland of the country  had no water for close to two weeks. Its stressful, but also unifying. People standing together and choosing to use their voice is positive, he says.

I am choosing to speak up publicly  its not a comfortable position for me as an academic and engineer  but I will speak my truth so that those in government who should be making a difference start to take action. Water is a basic human right, and we should be defending that right, Sheridan says.
Peter Sarnak awarded the 2024 Shaw Prize

Celebrated mathematician and Wits alumnus acknowledged for his profound impact on number theory.

Professor Peter Sarnak (BSc 1974, BSc Hons 1975, DSc honoris causa 2014) has received the 2024 Shaw Prize for Mathematical Sciences for his development of the arithmetic theory of thin groups and the affine sieve, by bringing together number theory, analysis, combinatorics, dynamics, geometry and spectral theory.

The award is given annually by the Shaw Prize Foundation, which was founded in 2002 by the Hong-Kong-based philanthropist Run Run Shaw (1907-2014). The Shaw Prize consists of three awards for life sciences and medicine, astronomy and mathematics and comes with a substantial monetary prize.

Prof Sarnak is one of the worlds leading mathematical scientists and is currently Gopal Prasad Professor in the School of Mathematics at the Institute for Advanced Study and the Eugene Higgins Professor of Mathematics at Princeton University in the United States.

In their citation, the Shaw Prize's Mathematical Selection Committee praised Prof Sarnak's original and deep vision which has had a profound impact on numerous areas of study. Many of Prof Sarnak's major contributions have been motivated by number theory  a branch of pure mathematics devoted primarily to the study of integers (e.g., whole numbers) and arithmetic functions. It is one of the oldest and most fundamental areas of mathematics, with its origins dating back to ancient civilisations. Number theory has been described as the "queen of mathematics" due to its fundamental nature, beauty, and ability to inspire groundbreaking work. While initially considered a purely theoretical field, number theory has found numerous modern applications in cryptography, computer science, communications, physics, and more.

Prof Sarnak was born in Johannesburg, completing his BSc degree at Wits in 1974 and was awarded the Herbert Le May Prize for applied mathematics and the William Cullen Medal for the best graduate in the Faculty of Science in 1974. He went on to complete his BSc honours in pure mathematics and was awarded the Unico Chemical Company Gold Medal for the Best honours student in the Science Faculty in 1975. He moved on to complete his PhD at Standford in 1980. After he received an honorary doctorate from Wits in 2014 he said:

I owe much of where I am today to Wits. I stepped onto this great campus in the early 70s, a naive 18-year-old. Thanks to my teachers and fellow students, the next four years opened my eyes to the world around me from the political to the scientific. Wits transformed me for good!

The exceptional faculty at Wits introduced me to modern mathematical sciences and I was immediately taken by abstract mathematics  its beauty and the powerful reasoning which allows us to tackle many concrete problems whose solutions lie well below the surface. This quickly became my passion and it remains so to this day.

Prof Sarnak is a member of the editorial boards of the top journals in these fields and has published over 120 research articles, books, and has supervised numerous PhD students. He is a member of the US National Academy of Sciences and Fellow of the Royal Society of London.

Read more from the Shaw Prize website.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The 54th meeting of the Council of Heads of Security Agencies and Special Services of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is taking place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Trend reports.

The President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Zhaparov, met with the participants of the meeting.

According to the press release from the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), the event aims to establish collaborative measures for identifying and preventing the activities of individuals with combat training acquired abroad who seek to destabilize situations and forcibly alter the constitutional order within member states of the CIS.

"Participants will strategize on enhancing information exchange to combat terrorism and religious extremism, including through the Global Terrorism Database (GTD), operated under the National Antiterrorist Committee," stated the press service of FSB.

Additionally, the CIS Antiterrorist Center will present a report on the outcomes of implementing the Cooperation Program among CIS Member States on combating terrorism and other violent forms of extremism for the period 20232025.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) will continue to focus on achieving comprehensive and sustainable peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, OSCE Chair-in-Office, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta Ian Borg told Trend in an exclusive interview.

"Throughout my engagements in Baku, I reaffirmed the OSCEs long-standing cooperative relationship with Azerbaijan. Our focus will continue to be on achieving comprehensive and sustainable peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which remains a top priority for us," he said.

The OSCE chair noted that achieving lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan requires a continued commitment to constructive dialogue and good-faith diplomacy as the only sustainable way forward.

"The OSCE could continue to play an important role in this process. Our unique experience and expertise can effectively support a peaceful, sustainable path forward. We are prepared to contribute, complement, and support the efforts of the parties. Throughout my engagements in the region, I have stressed the OSCEs readiness to assist the political process, if requested and agreed upon by all parties, based on our joint values and commitments," he added.

Further speaking, Ian Borg noted that the Maltese Chairpersonship is working to enhance the OSCEs role and elevate its engagement in the South Caucasus. "Through its consensual approach and its broad range of concrete projects, the OSCE serves as an essential framework for fostering tangible people-to-people connections. The OSCE has a number of institutions and structures that help it implement its mandate."

Ian Borg pointed out that the OSCE's involvement in Azerbaijan spans several areas, including connectivity and climate change from a security perspective. At the same time, commenting on Azerbaijan's COP29 presidency, he expressed confidence that the OSCEs previous and ongoing engagement with Baku on environmental aspects of security and connectivity would contribute to discussions within the OSCE on the importance of climate action as part of the organizations comprehensive approach to security.

"We will continue to build on the success of initiatives that seek to enhance sustainable connectivity and trade, fostering regional cooperation and promoting environmentally friendly practices. Additionally, we will work to further strengthen cooperation across the parliamentary dimension and the work of the autonomous Institutions. I continue to encourage more initiatives across all three dimensions of security in the interest of lasting peace and security," he elaborated.

Further noting, Ian Borg stated that one of the OSCEs strengths is its extensive and proven range of tools for the entire conflict cycle, including post-conflict rehabilitation.

"We stand ready to adapt and deploy these instruments to respond effectively to the needs that may emerge from a peace agreement and also use the lessons learned from other OSCE regions. The OSCE is as strong as our participating States want it to be, and hence the more political support and consensus from all 57 OSCE participating States, including Azerbaijan and Armenia, the more we will be able to mobilize our expertise. We will continue to support all pragmatic and result-oriented approaches that generate tangible progress toward the normalization of bilateral relations, particularly efforts made to alleviate human suffering and help build a better future for the people on the ground. Our goal is clear: to secure a durable and sustainable peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan and see Azerbaijanis and Armenians profit from this development. This can only be achieved through diplomacy and peaceful means," Ian Borg concluded.
Guo Yuanyuan participates in an exhibition celebrating women artists with disabilities at the Palace Museum in Beijing earlier this month. [China Daily]

On May 12, Guo Yuanyuan finally had the chance to set foot in the Forbidden City.

Despite growing up in Beijing, this UNESCO World Heritage Site overseen by the Palace Museum had always felt out of reach to the 39-year-old paralyzed from the waist down due to a congenital condition.

Invited to an exhibition celebrating women artists with disabilities at the museum, Guo finally mustered up the courage to navigate the bustling tourist area, only to encounter hidden accessibility challenges within its grand walls. The ramps meant for disabled visitors became a point of concern for her.

"The national standard specifies a 1:12 slope ratio for ramps," she said. "But many obviously don't meet the requirement."

Guo said steep inclines and rough surfaces on the ramps could potentially tip over wheelchairs, overshadowing what should have been a moment of awe and wonder in one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.

Fortunately, with the help of volunteers present that day, Guo faced no danger or mobility hindrances due to the ramp.

She said while the design flaws may not be intentional, they reflect a broader lack of understanding of the genuine needs of individuals with disabilities, despite legislative efforts in recent years to shore up accessible features in public spaces such as restrooms, railway stations and hospitals.

She added that accessible features should go beyond symbolic gestures. Replacing the ramps with longer ones featuring gentler slopes could significantly enhance the travel experience for disabled visitors.

Adding modern accessibility features to historical sites can be challenging due to architectural and structural constraints.

The Palace Museum has worked to balance the need for accessibility with preserving the site's original design and character.

On the day of Guo's visit, the museum made a commitment to improve visitor accessibility and showcase cultural items created by artists with disabilities.

The museum announced plans to collaborate with the China Disabled Persons' Federation to deploy these reforms, with an agreement signing ceremony held at the museum.

Speaking at the event, Wang Xudong, a senior Party official with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and director of the museum, said the museum has a duty to enhance services for individuals with disabilities and encourage their involvement in China's cultural heritage.

He said the museum has in the past rolled out sign language services for tourists and pledged to create a more inclusive environment, enhance experiences for disabled visitors, and organize cultural events to promote their engagement with traditional culture.

Despite advancements in public space accessibility and an increase in disabled travelers due to legislation efforts and higher incomes, challenges persist.

Guo highlighted air travel as an example.

Wheelchairs often need to be checked in for flights, risking damage due to rough handling during the process.

"Most of the time, we can communicate with the airport to have our wheelchairs transported along with carry-on luggage. However, there are also times when, due to insufficient space in the luggage compartment, our wheelchairs have to be checked in," she said.

(Source: China Daily)
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. [Xinhua/Ju Peng]

JINAN, May 23 (Xinhua)  Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday stressed the need to deepen reform further across the board with efforts centering on advancing Chinese modernization.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks while chairing a symposium in Jinan, Shandong Province, attended by representatives from businesses and academia.

"Reform is the driving force for development," Xi said, noting that to deepen reform further on all fronts, efforts should be focused on the overarching goals of improving and developing the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, and modernizing China's governance system and capacity.

He added that China should take resolute steps to remove the ideological and institutional barriers hindering the advancement of Chinese modernization, and double down on its efforts to resolve deep-seated institutional challenges and structural issues.

Xi's trip to Shandong is the first local inspection he has made since the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau held a meeting on April 30.

It was decided at the meeting that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be held in Beijing in July, and that the session will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization.

Nine representatives including entrepreneurs from state-owned, private and foreign-funded enterprises spoke at the symposium to put forward opinions and suggestions on deepening reform across the board, covering such issues as developing venture capital investment, upgrades of traditional industries, improving the corporate governance of private enterprises and optimizing the business environment for foreign enterprises.

It is the CPC's consistent approach and fine tradition to conduct in-depth research and extensively solicit opinions from various parties before making major decisions and formulating important documents, Xi said, adding that relevant departments should carefully study and absorb opinions and suggestions for further deepening reform in an all-round way that were brought up during the symposium.

China should adhere to and develop its basic economic system and work to build a high-level socialist market economy system, Xi said.

Economic system reform should start from meeting realistic needs and tackling the most urgent matters, and should advance theoretical and institutional innovation in the process of solving practical problems, he added.

"The Chinese people's aspiration for a better life is the goal we have been striving for, and the ultimate purpose of advancing reform and promoting development is to improve the livelihood of the people," Xi said.

He emphasized the need to identify the key areas of reform and achieve breakthroughs based on the pressing concerns and aspirations of the general public, including employment, income growth, education, healthcare, housing, government services, childcare, elderly care, personal safety, and property security.

Xi stressed that no matter how and where reform goes, certain "fundmental things" must not be compromised, including upholding the overall leadership of the Party, adhering to Marxism, sticking to the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and upholding the people's democratic dictatorship.

"At the same time, we must dare to innovate and do a good job in reforming what should be and could be reformed, and persist in our efforts once we find the right path," Xi said.

Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, who are also members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the symposium.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. [Xinhua/Xie Huanchi]

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, chairs a symposium attended by representatives from businesses and academia and delivers an important speech in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. [Xinhua/Xie Huanchi]

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, communicates with representatives from businesses and academia attending a symposium in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, May 23, 2024. Xi chaired the symposium and delivered an important speech here on Thursday. [Xinhua/Li Tao]

(Source: Xinhua)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov has conveyed an invitation letter, sent on behalf of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in connection with participation in the World Leaders' Climate Action Summit on November 1213, which will kick off COP29, to Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Yoichi Fukazawa, a source in the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry told Trend.

He conveyed the letter during his four-day visit to Japan (from May 20 through May 24, 2024).

Mammadov briefed the Japanese side on Azerbaijans activities within the framework of its chairmanship at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29).

Within the visit, the foreign ministries of the two countries held another round of political consultations led by Mammadov and the Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister of Japan, Special Representative of the Foreign Ministry of Japan for Central Asia, the Caucasus, and GUAM (Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Moldova), Ambassador Masaki Ikegami.

The consultations discussed the current state and future prospects of cooperation in trade, economy, tourism, energy, interregional relations, humanitarian issues, and other areas.

The cooperation between the two countries in important oil and gas projects was positively assessed, and the prospects for joint activities in this field were considered, taking into account the goals of both countries in the field of green energy.

Japanese companies were invited to actively participate in the implementation of the concepts of "Smart City," "Smart Village," and "Green Energy Zones".

Additionally, discussions were held on transport corridors passing through the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan, particularly the East-West International Transport Corridor.

Moreover, within the framework of the visit, Mammadov discussed the state of bilateral relations and opportunities for further cooperation between the Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan Hideki Murai, President of the Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA) Kenichiro Sasae, Vice Representative of ITOCHU Corporation for External Relations and Head of the Japan-Azerbaijan Economic Committee Masahiro Imai, as well as the Chairman of the Japan-Azerbaijan Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group Akira Amari and Fukazawa.

The Japanese side was informed about the process of normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as the restoration and construction work being carried out in the territories liberated from occupation.

During his visit to Japan, Mammadov gave an interview to the famous news agency Jiji Press," added the source.

Meanwhile, this November, Azerbaijan will host COP29. This decision was made at the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11 last year. Baku will become the center of the world and will receive about 7080,000 foreign guests.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. The COPthe Conference of the Partiesis the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. There are 198 countries that are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Azerbaijani Parliament has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva on May 28 - Independence Day, Trend reports.

At today's session of Parliament, the Chairperson of the Azerbaijani Parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, proposed on behalf of the Azerbaijani Parliament to send a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva on May 28 - Independence Day.

MPs welcomed the Parliamentary Speaker's proposal with applause.

Will be updated
Ruling Administration accused of sacking Audit Committee lay members for being too effective in their job

This article is old - Published: Friday, May 24th, 2024

A fractious council committee could get three new lay members as councillors voted to advertise their jobs rather than extend their terms, in an entirely legal move, but one that was described as a sacking.

The decision means three lay members, including Trevor Coxon  who previously worked as Wrexham Councils Head of Corporate and Customer Services and Council Monitoring Officer, have been removed from the position on the Governance and Audit Committee pending a new advertisement for the role.

The committee should provide an independent and high-level focus on the audit, assurance and reporting arrangements that underpin good governance and financial standards.

A lay member of a committee are independent members of the public who sit on a council committee, should be non-political and are paid for their time. There are deeper rules, for example you cant be a council officer and also a lay member, nor a spouse or civil partner of a member or an officer of the council. The aim is for people who are of unbiased mind and an independent attitude, and challenge where appropriate.

At the Full Council AGM this week councillors were recommended in a report to agree to the extension of the three current Independent Lay Members to the Governance and Audit Committee for the period up to and including 24th May 2028.

It also notes, The Appointments Panel interviewed candidates on 9th May 2024 and recommends that the successful candidate is appointed to Governance and Audit Committee for a period up to and including 24th May 2028, however adding The extension to the existing lay members term was not a matter considered by the Appointments Panel, it is a proposal put forward to the Full Council in line with existing precedents and practice followed by both Wrexham Council and other Welsh councils and is separate to the new member appointment process.

Officers told councillors, The proposed extension of the current lay members appointments would allow continuity and consistency of service and would help to ensure that the Governance and Audit Committee continues to function effectively whilst meeting its Terms of Reference.

The normally straightforward process was interrupted with Council Leader Mark Pritchard moving an amendment to the recommendation that  the Council supports that an advert goes out for the recruitment of three independent lay members of the Governance and Audit Committee for the period up to the 24th of May 2028. Cllr David A Bithell seconded the amendment.

No detail to why the amendment was put forward was given at Full Council.

However, readers will recall how the lay members warned about the behaviour of some councillors in the chamber (although Mr Coxon was clear he was not saying it all falls at the leaders door).

Another meeting called out bad behaviour of councillors.

More recently the committee has been a battleground over the Local Development Plan, and an attempt by councillors to remove the Chair via a vote of no confidence was deemed out of order  prompting a walk out of some councillors.

During the latest meeting an email was read out by Cllr Bates that he claimed was sent erroneously to him from the Chair of the committee, appearing to be to the police.

Back in April the Crown Prosecution Service made a decision that no criminal proceeding would be pursued in relation to the matter surrounding an attempted Judicial Review into the Local Development Plan and an allegation of malfeasance in public office by councillors in Wrexham.

After Cllr Pritchard put forward the amendment, Cllr Dana Davies (who is also the vice-chair of the Audit Committee in question) spoke against the idea, noting the exact same process had been followed for the Standards Committee with no issue there, asking if this was pure self preservation.

The Legal Officer advised that the committee can still run while the recruitment proceeds and therefore was legally compliant.

Cllr Malcolm King was highly critical of the Council Leaders move, There arent vacancies, as has been pointed out, they are not leaving. We are in fact, sacking them.

If were going to be honest with the people in Wrexham, and ourselves, we all know what this is about.

Theyve been too effective in their job of being independent on the audit committee and its made us feel uncomfortable, so we get rid of them. I mean, thats what the issue is, isnt it?

Maintaing this mystery and that we are going to look for other people, with the implication that these three hadnt been doing their job very well? Well, I think its quite the opposite. Theyve been too independent and been doing their job too well. That is the truth of it.

The Legal Officer reiterated from the legal point of view there is no concern around the extension proposed in the report.

A recorded vote was called by Labour, and 36 councillors effectively decided to advertise for three new lay members, the vote was split along the lines of the Administration and Plaid Cymru outvoting Labour on the matter.

Top pic: Council Leader Mark Pritchard making his point on the amendment, with lay member Trevor Coxon observing in the public gallery.
Wrexham micro-brewery wins big at prestigious awards ceremony

This article is old - Published: Friday, May 24th, 2024

A Wrexham-based micro-brewery has won big at the prestigious SIBA Wales & West Independent Beer Awards

Magic Dragon Brewing took home 10 awards at the awards, which took place at Ludlows Spring Fair at Ludlow Castle.

Winners include the Border Bitter which won gold in Keg British ales (up to 6.4%abv), Black Tiger a Black IPA won Gold in Specialty IPA category whilst the Old Magic dark mild and Green One in cask both won a silver award.

Nectaron and Hoppy Jester in cask won Bronze. Nectaron in keg won Silver and Dr G won Bronze. Finally, Eyton Gold in bottle won Bronze.

The SIBA Wales & West Independent Beer Awards judge a huge range of beers across a number of styles in separate cask, keg, and bottle and can competitions.

Winners from the regional awards will move forwards to the National Finals in March 2025.

That means that Black Tiger and Border Bitter will go to the final competition at Beer X.

Magic Dragon Brewing, which was started in 2019 by Richard and Liz Lever, is based at The Plassey Holiday Park just outside Wrexham.

They have two bars, one in Wrexham city centre and the other, The Crafty Dragon, opened in Whitchurch at the end of February.

Richard Lever said: Its fantastic to win so many awards out of the large number of beers entered into the competition and were really looking forward to going to the national awards with the Keg Border Bitter and Black Tiger.

Its been an exciting year so far with the opening of our new bar in Whitchurch and now these awards.

Neil Walker, SIBA Head of Comms & Marketing, added: The SIBA Independent Beer Awards seek to highlight the very best beers in the Uk in a huge range of styles, strengths and flavours, from traditional bitters and stouts to modern hazy IPAs, Pale Ales and a variety of specialty and international styles.

Judged by beer experts, experienced beer judges, and fellow brewers from other regions  they are seen very much as the brewers choice awards in the UK and Id like to congratulate all of todays winners for taking home a medal against tough competition.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Representatives of the diplomatic corps - ambassadors, military attaches and also representatives of international organizations accredited in Azerbaijan have concluded their visit to Azerbaijan's Lachin city within the framework of Lachin Climate Action Dialogue, Trend reports.

In the city, the officials visited Zerti Agro-Industrial Park where they were informed about animals in the park, container-type farms for the production of feed, as well as for growing herbs and tomatoes.

The visitors were also informed about provision of all enterprises operating there with the cutting-edge technologies.

The information was further given that in addition to obtaining jobs, Lachin residents also acquire professional skills by learning from foreign specialists, due to which, each enterprise operating in the Agro-Industrial Park can also be considered a training center.

Next, representatives of the diplomatic corps arrived at the Hochazfilm studio pavilion and were briefed on very broad prospective directions of the studio's multifaceted creative hub, including the implementation of projects related to the Karabakh region's extensive promotion, coverage of cultural and mass events held in the region, reconstruction in Lachin, promotion of national brands and local products, cooperation with the cinema and creative union, organization of summer schools for youth, creative workshops, cinematography courses, drawing classes, and competitions.

The pavilion meets international standards for technical equipment, including sound and light insulation.

The diplomats also observed the process of releasing trout into a section of the Hakari river, flowing through the Lachin district, to help restore the ecosystem in the territories of Karabakh and East Zangazur.

In conclusion of the visit, the diplomats took part in the opening of the exhibition "How the Carpet Was Created", dedicated to May 28 - Independence Day, featuring national carpets and art pieces created in various styles.

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On Saturday at 4:00 p.m. US Eastern Time, the World Socialist Web Site and the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) are holding an online public meeting, Mobilize the working class to defend the University of California strike against genocide! Register for the event here.

UCLA faculty members hold up a banner at a pro-Palestine rally, May 23, 2024

On Thursday, United Auto Workers Local 4811 declared it would expand a strike by academic workers against the police crackdown on campuses at the University of California to UCLA (Los Angeles) and UC Davis. Around 2,000 workers have been on strike at UC Santa Cruz since Monday. Action at the two additional campuses is scheduled for next Tuesday.

The UAW announcement is in reaction to massive rank-and-file anger over the bureaucracys deliberate isolation of the strike to only one out of the 10 campuses, even as the police crackdown continues to build.

On Tuesday, the UC administration filed for an injunction against the strike, claiming it was illegal because its goal is to pressure the University to concede to a list of politically motivated demands. However, a court rejected the application on Thursday.

On Thursday morning, students launched a second encampment at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Three weeks ago, the previous one was shut down by a combined assault of police and right-wing Zionists.

A line of riot police faces pro-Palestine demonstrators at UCLA, May 23, 2024

Protesters barricaded themselves around UCLAs Kerckhoff Hall, which was quickly surrounded by police. In a short time, the number of police arrayed against the protest grew to the hundreds, with cops from the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) arriving in riot gear, as well as third-party security services, including Covered Six, Apex and CSC.

Officers with zip ties surrounded the area, and the campus newspaper, the Daily Bruin, reported the presence of a Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department prisoner transport bus.

The encampment was then abandoned by students and turned into a march and a series of temporary occupations of buildings around campus. At the time of this writing, no arrests had been made.

As todays protest took place, UCLA Chancellor Gene Block was testifying before Congress, with Democrats and Republicans alike slandering the protests on campus as being motivated by antisemitism.

UCLA Professor Marco Velli, Astrophysics

UC Los Angeles Professor Marco Velli told the WSWS:

I teach astrophysics, space science. And Im also Jewish. I mean, clearly the way they handled the whole issue here in UCLA was wrong. It was obviously wrong. And what was done as a remedial was too little, way too little, way too late. They should not have had the encampment thrown out the day after they allowed it to be attacked essentially.

Rank-and-file opposition

It became increasingly clear in the hours before the UAWs announcement that workers at the two campuses were prepared to walk out with or without the official sanction of the union. The group UC Davis Popular University for the Liberation of Palestine called for a strike starting Tuesday, with or without sanction from the UAW.

A group at UCLA called Rank-and-File for a Democratic Union has also called for mass sickouts and demanded that UAW officials Stop using the violence we endured at UCLA as a prop and call on us to go on strike already!

Pro-Palestine demonstrators approach at UCLA, May 23, 2024

This follows similar statements earlier in the week by the UC chapter of the Students for Justice in Palestine and a group of dissidents at UC Santa Cruz who called for the strike to be expanded to all 48,000 UAW members across the UC system.

Will Lehman, a socialist Mack Trucks worker who ran for UAW president in 2022, issued a statement during the UC strike vote calling for all 400,000 members of the UAW to strike in defense of the right to protest, including members in the auto industry and defense plants.

A protester at UCLA told the WSWS that he did not like the so-called standup strike tactic of limiting walkouts to a small fraction of the membership. The protester said:

I think the leadership is very out of sync. The UAW is basically an apparatus of the Democratic party, which is why they are doing this, and Im 100 percent against it.

Another worker said that without the UAW controlling the process, UCLA would already be striking.

One graduate student in Humanities at Thursdays UCLA rally told the WSWS:

Its the nature of the union under imperialism that the union leadership draws close to the state, and they do everything in their power to basically put a lid on union militancy... under imperialism, unions go from representing particular enterprises to representing national interests. Union leaders try to demonstrate to the nation, to the state, that they are not a threat, that actually they are an asset to the state. It cant be replaced by just voting for more honest people.

The struggle has to be international, he concluded:

You cant pit one national proletariat against another national proletariat. It has to be every industry across the borders--Mexican, American, Central American--all of them fighting for socialism.

A tactical retreat

The decision to sanction strike action at UCLA and UC Davis is a tactical retreat on the part of the UAW bureaucracy, which does not alter its aim of limiting and ultimately shutting down the protests. The basic task for workers remains to organize alternative rank-and-file structures to take control of the strike out of the hands of the bureaucrats and enforce the overwhelming mandate to strike at all 10 campuses.

The courts denial of the UCs request for an injunction is a political, not a legal decision. First of all, it is far from clear whether an injunction could even be enforced at this point or whether it would have the opposite effect of galvanizing workers into taking action in defiance of attempts to limit the strike.

A section of the pro-Palestine protest at UCLA, May 23, 2024

The decision effectively grants the UAW bureaucracy additional time to try and reassert its control and wind down the struggle. The union bureaucrats will use the time between now and Tuesday, and beyond if necessary, to attempt to reach a toothless deal with the administration to shut down the strike.

The UAW has already made clear a deal would not include the removal of cops from the campuses, and, of course, ending the protests would only enable the continuation of the genocide. In other words, it would be a de facto injunction, but imposed by the bureaucracy rather than the courts.

Next steps

As the WSWS has written, the strike is a turning point because it poses the entry of the working class into the struggle as the basic political force against war. But this is completely connected with the fight by the rank and file against sabotage by the union bureaucracy.

There is significant potential for the fight against war to link up with the fight by workers against capitalist exploitation. Autoworker members of the UAW are fighting against mass layoffs allowed by a new contract following a toothless standup strike last fall, which the union is using as the model for the UC strike.

The campuses themselves are centers of exploitation in their own right. Some 6,500 librarians and non-tenured faculty are pushing for strike action in the University Council-American Federation of Teachers (UC-AFT), which filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge against UC last week.

On November 1, contracts expire for tens of thousands of ultra-low-paid UC workers in the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). These workers, including dining hall and kitchen workers, housekeeping dorm staff, janitors and laboratory technicians, are paid as little as $19 an hour. On Wednesday, AFSCME informational pickets were held side by side with a pro-Palestine rally at UC Irvine.

Elsewhere on the West Coast, graduate workers at Stanford University, who are members of the Stanford Graduate Workers Union, voted this week by 98 percent to approve a new slate of economic demands. A strike also began of UAW members at Western Washington University (WWU).

But the bureaucrats in each of these unions are working desperately to keep the struggles separate. The UAW suddenly called off the WWU strike on Thursday, just as it called off another strike at the University of Washington last week after only a few hours.

The UC-AFT issued a letter earlier this week purporting to explain members rights during a strike. In reality, it was focused on telling them they cannot take any action.

A no-strike clause in the AFT contract prevents us from joining the UAW strike, the letter claims. The AFT itself has not called a strike, it lamely declared, because a strike takes time and commitment. If the faculty Senate on a campus calls a strike, workers likely cannot join that strike either, the AFT claims.

This amounts to a declaration that the AFT, which like the UAW has close ties to the Biden White House, will do nothing to organize a serious fight.

A genuine fight requires that the rank and file take control out of the hands of the pro-capitalist bureaucrats through the development of a network of committees that are controlled by neither the apparatus nor either pro-war political party.

On Saturday at 4:00 p.m. US Eastern Time, the World Socialist Web Site and the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) are holding an online public meeting, Mobilize the working class to defend the University of California strike against genocide! Register for the event here.
The systematic censorship in the US of artists who express sympathy with the plight of the Gazan population and oppose the genocidal policies of Netanyahu-Biden continues.

*The National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) has felt obliged to create an Art Censorship Index, primarily reporting the most egregious, official acts of censorship favoring the murderous Israeli military attacks on the Palestinians.

*In an episode that the NCAC has not yet had time to list, Native American artist Danielle SeeWalker recently had an invitation rescinded to be artist in residence in Vail, Colorado, the Rocky Mountain resort town. The artist had done a painting G is for Genocide, of a woman wearing a keffiyeh, and posted an image of the work on Instagram.

G is for Genocide, Danielle SeeWalker

*Meanwhile, chat messages obtained by the Washington Post reveal that a secret cabal of wealthy art collectors and art-world stakeholders, with connections to major museums in New York and elsewhere, discussed plans to put pressure on Mayor Eric Adams to break up the protests by students at Columbia University and other campuses.

The NCAC index provides information on a series of episodes in which institutions have acted on behalf of pro-Israeli forces to clamp down on artists free speech. The WSWS has written about a number of them, including the exclusion of Palestinian artist Jumana Manna from a panel at the Wexner Center for the Arts in Columbus, Ohio; the cancellation of a career retrospective by Palestinian artist Samia Halaby at Indiana University; the shutting down of scheduled showings of Israelism, a film critical of Zionist policies, at Hunter College in New York and the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia; and the postponement of an appearance by Vietnamese-American Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Viet Thanh Nguyen at the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan.

It notes the cancellation of appearances by author Nathan Thrall, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning A Day in the Life of Abed Salama, at a number of venues, including the Writers Bloc in Los Angeles and the University of Arkansas.

The Burning Man festival in Nevada, which pledges itself to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance, removed from its website a pro-Palestinian art work, a proposed 8-by-14-foot fiberglass installation in the shape of a watermelon, a symbol of resistance to Israeli occupation. The title of the work was From the River to the Sea, and various pro-Zionists objected, claiming that the slogan constituted language that advocates for the annihilation of Israel.

The published NCAC list includes the sudden postponing by the Frick Pittsburgh museum of the exhibition Treasured Ornament: 10 Centuries of Islamic Art, the cancellation of the Boston Palestine Film Festival after venues faced a lot of pressure and backlash from pro-Israeli forces; the removal of an art installation at East Harlems El Museo del Barrio that included a Palestinian flag; and numerous others.

The list is quite narrow, in fact. A far broader range of acts of censorship and repression have been carried out, as the NCAC itself acknowledges. The organization explains that it did not include cases in which artists substantially altered their own work after it had been curated, or cases where curatorial frameworks precluded an artwork from being selected in the first place. Furthermore, the list does not record employee firings, instances in which galleries have terminated their representation of artists, expulsions of student groups from college campuses, or instances in which protests have temporarily interfered with the presentation of work.

As well, the Art Censorship Index does not record examples in which artists have elected to withdraw their work from public presentation in an act of protest, or instances in which artists have self-censored their work or their views for fear of backlash. In short, the NCAC admits that the data represented likely reflect a fraction of arts censorship incidents, and that the current political climates chilling effects on speech reverberate in myriad ways beyond the incidents noted.

The latest episode in Vail has become the norm. SeeWalker, a Hukpapha Lakhota citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Nation based in Denver, was invited to be the towns artist in residence, and then disinvited once she posted G for Genocide on Instagram. As the artist told the Art Newspaper, G for Genocide was for a different exhibition and had nothing to do with Vail or the residency.

The municipality, in a statement, asserted that while the Town of Vail embraces [SeeWalkers] messaging and artwork surrounding Native Americans, in recent weeks her art and her public messaging has focused on the Israel/Gaza crisis. It then claimed, as has also become the norm, that negotiations with SeeWalker had never been concluded and no contract was signed, etc. However, the Art Newspaper pointed out that its review of materials indicated that SeeWalker received written commitments for housing and supplies. An announcement about her arrival in Vail that had been posted on the municipalitys website has since been taken down.

Len Blavatnik [Photo by Spokesperson unit of the President of Israel / CC BY 3.0

One of the most sinister and telling incidents is the intervention by super-wealthy art collectors to press the city of New York to crack down on student protesters at Columbia and other universities.

As Hyperallergic reports, the messages urging NYPD intervention

were sent in a private WhatsApp group whose members reportedly included collector Len Blavatnik, a major benefactor of institutions including Londons Victoria and Albert Museum and Tate Modern; tech tycoon Michael Dell, who helped establish the Magnum Photos collection at the University of Texas at Austin; Daniel Loeb, art collector and former Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art trustee; former Starbucks CEO and momentary presidential hopeful Howard Schultz, a top Seattle art collector; and Joseph Sitt, the real-estate investor behind Brooklyns Sephardic Heritage Museum and the Coney Art Walls mural initiative.

The article goes on to report that on April 27, according to the Washington Post,

Sitt, Blavatnik, Loeb, and others attended a Zoom call with New York City Mayor Eric Adams in the wake of mass student arrests at Columbia and as a new encampment emerged on campus. Sitt wrote that Adams was open to any ideas we have to address the campus protests, including hiring private investigators to then have his police force intel team work with them.

The article continues:

Ill be grateful when the perpetrators are dragged off campus, Loeb reportedly wrote in the chat that day. Minutes of the Zoom call shared in the chat noted potential tactics to get police back on campus, including donating to Adamss reelection campaign and using the group members leverage to influence Columbia University President Nemat Minouche Shafik.

Days later, the NYPD violently removed and arrested students occupying Columbias Hamilton Hall, renamed Hinds Hall, in honor of Hind Rajab, the six-year-old child murdered by Israeli forces in Gaza in January 2024.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) issued an alert on Wednesday stating they had identified a farmworker infected with the same bird flu virus that has been infecting livestock across several states in the US.

This is the second confirmed case related to the H5N1 outbreak among dairy cows and the second known mammal to human transmission. Health authorities indicated that the infected person has since made a full recovery. The MDHHS added, To protect farm and farmworker privacy, additional details are not being provided.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also issued a report noting that the swab from the Michigan patients eyes confirmed the presence of the virus. Like the Texas animal handler, his only symptoms consisted of conjunctivitis or inflammation of the eyes. Although the swab from the Michigan farmworker was negative, it was positive in the case from Texas.

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive for the State of Michigan and board certified in infectious disease, explained the case was detected in part from state efforts to monitor workers from farms that have infected herds. She noted, Michigan has really been one of the states leading in terms of testing. So, its not surprising that we have picked up on this sporadic case.

Bagdasarian reiterated the assurances that have been made since late March when the outbreak among dairy cows had been detected: The current health risk to the general public remains low. This virus is being closely monitored, and we have not seen signs of sustained human-to-human transmission at this point. This is exactly how public health is meant to work, in early detection and monitoring of new and emerging illnesses.

At Wednesdays news briefing, Dr. Nirav Shah, the CDCs principal deputy director, conveyed that the negative nasal swab is reassuring: It reduced the likelihoodit does not eliminate, but it reduces the likelihoodof a respiratory route of transmission.

The leading hypothesis for these two infections is thought to be direct transmission. Given the high viral load in infected dairy cow milk, handling of the animals and the equipment used can have easily contaminated the hands and clothes of workers and transferred the particles directly into their eyes and nostrils. Other considerations include cleaning with sprays that cause the virus to aerosolize and then seed on the faces of workers.

According to the US Department of Agricultures (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, the number of herds impacted has risen to 52 across nine states in the US. Given the reluctance on the part of farmers to allow their animals and workers to be tested out of fear of the stigma associated with the epidemic, experts believe that the number of people potentially infected is far higher.

Currently, serological surveys remain to be done to provide an honest appraisal of the scope of the zoonotic spillover into farmworkers and the surrounding communities. Bagdasarian admitted, Weve always talked about the need to do additional studies  and to do a big look at serology, especially for people who may have remained asymptomatic throughout. That would be a next step. Shah also agreed that at this time, were not there yet.

An industrial milking station [Photo by Gunnar Schmidt, Namenios.net / CC BY-SA 3.0

Gregory Gray, an epidemiologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston who has had decades of experience in studying respiratory infections among animal handlers, including dairy cattle, told NPR, We know that some of the workers sought medical care for influenza-like illness and conjunctivitis at the same time the H5N1 was ravaging the dairy farms, I dont have a way to measure that, but it seems biologically quite plausible that they too are suffering from the virus.

On the question of what is required for this virus to acquire the correct sequence of mutations to evolve into a pathogen that is easily transmitted between people, virology and infectious disease experts weighed in with their replies in an important report published in the journal Science.

Fundamentally, famed virologist Martin Beer of the Friedrich Loeffler Institute, said, This clade [2.3.4.4b] is most of all and more than all previous clades an avian virus. He has not seen signs in his lab that the virus can efficiently infect human cells.

Over a decade ago, important work by Mathilde Richard at Erasmus Medical Center, who was working with H5N1 and ferrets, was halted out of concerns raised by issues surrounding gain of function experiments. It was precisely the very same evolutionary mutations that researchers are seeing taking place that are leading to a wider array of animals becoming susceptible to H5N1 infections. As she noted, I do think that this has really, really slowed down our knowledge.

Scientists have since had to rely on tracking epidemics among mammals, sequencing the viruses and assessing the mutations acquired that allow the new strains their capabilities. Richard told Science, That is sort of like a massive gain-of-function experiment in nature, and from those outbreaks, you can still learn quite a lot.

The first step that virologists have identified is the ability of the virus to borrow the host proteins that can replicate its RNA genome. One known mutation of these PB2 proteins, E627K, was first seen in the avian flu that caused the 1918 pandemic. Tom Peacock, virologist at the Imperial College London, said, PB2 was so good that it has stuck in every human influenza virus until the 2009 swine flu pandemic. The E627K mutations have been found in samples obtained from infected foxes and seals during the current global bird pandemic.

Peacock then notes that hemagglutinin (HA), the virus protein that helps the virus attach to the host cells, has to change sufficiently to allow for an efficient binding. He said, That is absolutely essential. In fact, there are no influenza viruses that are transmissible between people that dont have a human-adapted hemagglutinin.

The third mutation, said Emory University virologist Seema Lakdawala, who is also an expert in airborne transmission of pathogens, is a mutation that can stabilize the virus's HA proteins in small droplets of moisture that allows it to become transmissible through air. Lastly, Beer postulated that the other challenge remaining for the virus is the ability to evade the immune system. Further research by Lakdawala is looking into how likely it would be for these novel viruses to emerge in the context of pre-existing immunity to seasonal influenza.

As Peacock observed, H5N1 has one of the highest barriers to becoming a pandemic virus of any avian influenza virus. Its really wrong in so many ways. But obviously it only has to get the right combination of mutations once to do the jump. In the context of the ongoing sustained pandemic among birds, Richards went further: This is the threat thats going to keep knocking at our door until it will indeed, I assume, cause a pandemic. Because there is no way back.

Several projects on these issues are currently getting underway. Earlier this month, Science reported samples of H5N1 from Cornell University were sent to the German Federal Research Institute for Animal Health on the isle of Riems, which contains high-security labs equipped to study the impact of these pathogens in large animals. According to Beer, the initial study will infect dairy cows to get a fuller picture of the dangers posed by the virus. Additional work will include understanding how the virus is transmitted among the animals.

As Beer remarked, Nobody wants this dangerous virus to become entrenched in a new species that we use to produce food and that has so much close contact to humans.
On Wednesday, the Democratic Party administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams launched an assault on migrants, evicting adults from city shelters who have been denied extensions to stay beyond 30 days based on new rules announced in March.

Hundreds of migrants forced to sit in a queue outside the Roosevelt Hotel in New York, Monday, July 31, 2023. [AP Photo/ John Minchillo]

According to news reports, the first series of evictions are impacting adult migrants without children who were notified one month ago that the city will no longer pay to house them in hotels, tent dormitories and other buildings maintained under the citys right-to-shelter mandate. Those being evicted by the city have been denied requests for an extension of their shelter stays to 60 days because they do not qualify for any of the extenuating circumstances enumerated by the city.

Among the requirements to be granted an extension are showing documentation to city officials that significant efforts have been made to leave the shelter system such as meeting with legal providers or city case workers, applying for asylum, searching for a job or obtaining a government ID.

A report in the New York Times on Wednesday said:

The new policy, which goes into effect on a rolling basis, will initially apply to about 250 migrants this week. City officials said on Wednesday that they had denied extension requests to 74 migrants and had granted 118 extensions so far. Those denied extensions will be forced to leave the shelters.

The Times report says that the plan is being phased in and will eventually cover all 15,000 adult migrants in the city shelter system. In all, there are 65,000 people housed in shelters in New York City, most of whom are families with children.

The housing crisis in the nations largest city of 8.3 million people has become the focus of the Adams administrations right-wing attack on migrants, which is designed to blame exorbitant rents and a lack of affordable housinglongstanding problemson the arrival of 200,000 migrants in the city since the spring of 2022.

In a characteristically reactionary manner, Mayor Adams responded to criticism of his cruel attack on a most vulnerable section of the population by saying, People said its inhumane to put people out during the wintertime, so now they say its inhumane to do it in the summertime. Theres no good time.

Adams made his comment knowing full well that he had argued in court last October that the citys right-to-shelter requirement, which has been on the books since 1981, should be suspended entirely. At that time, Adams said that removing the guarantee of shelter for migrants would send a message to those seeking to come to the United States, to be upfront that New York City cannot single-handedly provide care to everyone crossing our border.

New York City is not the only US city evicting migrants from shelters. As reported by the WSWS in February, hundreds of migrants were discharged in Denver under new regulations adopted by the Democratic Party administration of Mayor Mike Johnston that allow families up to a maximum of six weeks and migrants without children just 14 days to stay in a shelter in the city. Of the 40,000 migrants, many of them from Venezuela, who have arrived over the past two years, 3,800 are living in shelters.

The draconian evictions in New York City have been condemned by immigrant rights organizations. Speaking on a panel earlier this month, Deborah Berkman, a project director at the New York Legal Assistance Group, said, [I]t seems extremely likely that we will see an increase in street homelessness.

Berkman continued:

It is hard for me to understand how within the first 30 days someones in the country, theyre going to be able to find work. Maybe some of them will be able to find some place to stay, but its very likely that some of them will not.

The measures being carried out in New York and Denver are part of increasing attacks on immigrants spearheaded at the national level by the Biden White House and by the Democratic Party Congressional leadership. The assault on the rights of migrants to enter and live in the US is a central part of the Biden administrations strategy of proving to the fascistic and xenophobic Republican Party its anti-immigrant credentials in order to win approval for more funding and weapons for the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine and for Israels genocide in Gaza.

On Wednesday, before moving the Democrats immigration and border security bill in the Senate for a second time, which was defeated again by a vote of 43 to 50, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said:

Three months ago Donald Trump told his Republican allies to block the strongest border security bill Congress has seen in a generation. Luckily, we are trying again tomorrow, and I hope this time Republicans join us to achieve a different outcome.

Schumer went on:

We dont expect every Republican or every Democrat to support this bill, it wasnt designed that way ... It was intended to be a compromise that could pass and become law ... We need to have strong border support ...

In a statement issued by the White House after the Senate vote, President Biden made clear his stance against the fundamental rights of immigrants. He said:

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Biden added that while Congressional Republicans are choosing to stand in the way of border enforcement, I will not stop fighting to deliver the resources that border and immigration personnel need. ... We must make our border more secure ...

Migrants in New York City who spoke to the WSWS said some of the biggest issues they face is uncertainty and a general feeling of uneasiness. Most do not have steady employment. Many who are employed work for food delivery firms such Uber Eats and DoorDash for long hours and low pay. The 11:00 p.m. curfew at shelters makes this work more difficult as the busiest hours tend to be in the evening.

Many of the hotel shelters require migrants to be out of the rooms during the day. Some only restrict males from being in the room during the day. This often leads to migrants milling about on the street or in the parking lot all day long. In extreme weather, the migrants are packed into hotel lobbies during the day, which makes for miserable conditions.

A number of migrants spoke about the lack of privacy in the shelters.

The latest crackdown on migrants by the Adams government will only intensify the housing crisis in the city under conditions where rents in NYC are rising, according to a recent study, seven times faster than salaries.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks announcement Wednesday that a snap general election will be held July 4 was a shock even to his own Conservative MPs.

Ministers and backbenchers spoke of the decision as madness, with the Tories 20 points behind the opposition Labour Party in the polls. Sunaks closest ministerial allies were kept in the dark until a cabinet meeting, called less than an hour before the prime minister stood outside Downing Street in the pouring rain to make his announcement.

However, Sunaks decision and the speed and secrecy of its implementation are bound up with calculations of the British ruling class and its imperialist allies in the US that snap elections are needed to preempt growing opposition to war and create a political framework for a massive escalation of the conflict with Russia.

Rishi Sunak (centre) holds a press conference with the NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (left) and then met British soldiers stationed at the Warsaw Armoured Brigade military base, Poland, April 23, 2024 [Photo by Simon Walker/No 10 Downing Street / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

In his announcement, Sunak made clear that foremost in his considerations is the rapid escalation of NATOs de facto war against Russia in Ukraine. This election will take place at a time when the world is more dangerous than it has been since the end of the Cold War, he declared. Putins Russia is waging a brutal war in Ukraine and will not stop there if he succeeds.

He added, In the Middle East the forces of Islamist extremism threaten regional and ultimately global stability, while China is looking to dominate the 21st century by stealing a lead in technology, and migration is being weaponised by hostile states to threaten the integrity of our borders.

Focusing the general election on war and national security is dictated by the advanced preparations for a new stage in the Ukraine conflict involving the use of NATO weaponry to directly target Russia and even the sending of NATO troops to the war zone.

The UK is the central military ally of US imperialism and has been in the forefront of every single escalatory move in Ukraine, including sending special forces and training thousands of Ukrainian troops. It was under the premiership of Boris Johnson that the conflict first erupted on February 24, 2022. Johnson wanted British backing for the war to define his government.

But Washington has been forced to rely throughout on a deeply unstable government in Britain, beset by bitter factional conflicts and hatred by millions, especially for the murderous herd immunity agenda pursued during a pandemic that claimed over 230,000 lives.

Johnson was forced to resign as Tory party leader on July 7, 2022, becoming the first head of a major imperialist power to fall from office during NATOs proxy war against Russia.

A July 8, 2022 Perspective column on the World Socialist Web Site noted:

The political fear animating a leadership challenge that almost led to the meltdown of the government is that Johnson is such a divisive and discredited figure that he could not be entrusted with the next stage of the ruling class offensive against the working class or with prosecuting NATOs war in Europe.

His forced resignation, the WSWS explained, unleashed a leadership contest dominated by former military figures that was eventually won by the rabid warmonger, Johnsons Foreign Secretary Liz Trusswho during her leadership campaign boasted of her readiness to use nuclear weapons against Russia.

But, after taking office in September 2022, Truss was swiftly deposed on October 20, under pressure from the global markets for having announced large and unfunded tax cuts.

Since then, any hope that her replacement by Sunak would finally bring political stability has been dashed by the constant growth of social and political opposition to the Tory agenda of austerity and waropposition that first erupted in the strike wave in 2022 and then took political form in the mass movement in opposition to Britains support for Israels genocide in Gaza.

Sunaks efforts to rescue his premiership have, therefore, focused on attempts to meet the demands of Washington to place war at the centre of the governments agenda.

On April 23, at a military base in Warsaw, Poland, he announced that Britain would increase military spending to 2.5 percent of GDP, ensuring the UK remains by far the second largest defence spender in NATO after the US.

He said he was putting the UKs defence industry on a war footing, and would be sending Ukraine the largest-ever package of UK military equipment, including more than 400 vehicles, 4 million rounds of ammunition, 60 boats and offshore raiding craft, vital air defences, and long-range precision-guided Storm Shadow missiles.

On May 3, while meeting Ukrainian President Zelensky, Foreign Secretary David Cameron gave the green light for Ukraine to use British Storm Shadow cruise missiles against targets within recognised Russian territory.

Finally, in a May 13 speech setting out the Tory general election campaign, Sunak warned, The world is closer to a dangerous nuclear escalation than at any point since the Cuban missile crisis, blaming this on an axis of authoritarian states like Russia, Iran, North Korea and China.

He declared that war has returned to Europe, and our NATO allies are warning that if Putin succeeds in Ukraine, they might be next.

He threatened a savage clampdown on anti-Gaza genocide and anti-war protests, denouncing them as an abuse of our liberal democratic values.

But neither Washington nor the British ruling class can tolerate a government unable to rule effectively and bereft of all legitimacy to stay in office a moment longer. Sunak was therefore forced to go to the country, even if this meant almost certain defeat for his government.

Media commentary makes clear that Sir Keir Starmers Labour Party is now seen as a reliable and more effective instrument for waging war overseas, imposing the austerity measures to pay for war and repressing the opposition in the working class this will provoke. His government will not bring a change in Tory policy, but its continuation, while leveraging the services of the trade union apparatus.

He and his front bench began their preparations for office by expelling Jeremy Corbyn and many of his main allies from the parliamentary party to prove that Labour was not only the most business-friendly party, but the party of NATO, committed to waging war against Russia, and the party of Zionism, ready to back genocide in Gaza and a wider war in the Middle East.

Starmer told the Daily Mail in April that his pro-NATO policybacked by repeated declarations of his willingness to use nuclear weaponswas being advanced in the face of rising global threats and growing Russian aggression.  The changed Labour Party that I lead knows that our national security always comes first.

Should Labour win the election on July 4, Starmers first international trip will be to the NATO summit in Washington on July 9-11, where plans will be discussed for stepped-up aggression against Russia.

The great political danger facing the working class is that there is presently little understanding of how advanced the preparations for a wider war are.

Millions of workers and young people have taken to the streets internationally to oppose Israels genocide in Gaza. Among the protesters in the UK, Sunak and Starmer are jointly hated.

Yet the leadership of these movements, such as the Stop the War Coalition, have made no serious attempt to explain that what is taking place is an attempt by the imperialist powers to redivide the world and its resources between themin which the war against Russia in Ukraine, support for the mass murder and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians and the targeting of Iran and China for escalating provocationsare various fronts of a single global conflict.

The disarming of the working class now centres on efforts to limit opposition to Labour to a harmless protest vote in mainly Muslim constituencies and against the more right-wing MPs, while insisting that Labour must otherwise be backed as a lesser evil to the Tories that can be pressured to the left.

This political betrayal is being fought by the Socialist Equality Party. We are standing candidates in this general election in opposition to the Tory and Labour parties. We warn that a Starmer government would be a mortal enemy of the working class, committed to war abroad and class war at home. Our aim is the organisation of a mass movement of workers and young people against the genocide in Gaza, the war in Ukraine and the plans for war against Iran and China and to build the socialist leadership required for this life-and-death struggle.
The application by the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, for the issuing of arrest warrants against Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant is a major blow to the German government's mendacious war propaganda. Khan has accused the Israeli head of government and his defence minister of serious war crimes against the Palestinian population.

The German government, which has declared support for Israel to be a German 'reason of state, has justified these crimes, supplied Israel with weapons for them and continues to do so. It slanders anyone as an antisemite who denounces Israeli war crimes and suppresses protests against them with brutal violence.

Both the Israeli and US governments, which do not recognize the authority of the ICC, have denounced the arrest warrants in the strongest possible terms. This is a problem for the German government. Germany is one of the 123 contracting states that have signed the Rome Statute of the ICC. It is the most important donor to the court after Japan.

In the face of the bestial crimes committed by German imperialism in World War II, the German bourgeoisie sought to cloak its return to militarism and great power politics with an aura of legality. The Federal Government has repeatedly invoked the Criminal Court to justify its foreign policy. One year ago, for example, Federal Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann welcomed an international arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin and declared that the Russian president would be arrested immediately if he set foot on German territory.

If the court confirms the arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant, which lawyers consider likely, Germany would be legally obliged to arrest the two as soon as they enter German territory. Of course, it would never do so. But if the government and the judiciary disregard the arrest warrants, the 'political damage' would be serious. As the news magazine Stern states: 'With this refusal, Germany would undermine the authority of the court to such an extent that it would probably have no major relevance in the future.'

Not only the authority of the court would be damaged, but also the already battered credibility of the federal government. Protest camps and resistance to the genocide in Gaza are already growing despite intimidation and repression. If the federal government openly defies international law and disregards an arrest warrant against a head of government it supports, while welcoming arrest warrants against political opponents, it would further undermine its lying propaganda.

The arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant are based on extremely well-documented facts. They were written by internationally renowned lawyers, whom even the pro-Israel German press cannot accuse of bias.

British jurist Karim Khan, who was elected Chief Prosecutor of the Criminal Court for nine years in 2021, is considered an expert on international law. Among other things, he worked as an advisor to the prosecution at the UN tribunals for Yugoslavia and Rwanda and most recently headed a UN mission that investigated crimes of the Islamic State (IS) on behalf of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Before requesting the arrest warrants, Khan had them reviewed by a panel of experts that included multiple award-winning British jurists and well-known lawyer Amal Clooney, as well as Jewish Holocaust survivor Theodor Meron, an Israeli citizen and former president of the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. The experts' report, accessible online, is devastating.

They write that the Prosecutor accuses Netanyahu and Gallant of the war crime of intentionally using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare, as well as 'various other war crimes and crimes against humanity associated with the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare. They continue:

These include the war crimes of wilfully causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or health or cruel treatment, wilful killing or murder, and intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population. The proposed charges also include the crimes against humanity of murder, extermination, other inhuman acts and persecution with respect to deaths and injuries resulting from or associated with the systematic deprivation of objects indispensable to the survival of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The Panel notes the Prosecutor's statement that other alleged crimes, including in connection with the large-scale bombing campaign in Gaza, are actively being investigated

The experts unanimously conclude:

In the Panel's view, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the suspects committed these crimes. The Panel also considers that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the crimes were committed in the context of a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population of Gaza, pursuant to State policy.

On May 20, the experts published a joint article in the Financial Times explaining why they supported the Chief Prosecutor of the Criminal Court. In it, they write:

For months, we have been engaged in an extensive process of review and analysis. We have carefully examined each of the applications for judgment warrants, as well as underlying material produced by the prosecution team in support of the applications. This has included witness statements, expert evidence, official communications, videos and photographs. In our legal report published today, we unanimously agree that the prosecutor's work was rigorous, fair and grounded in the law and the facts. And we unanimously agree that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the suspects he identifies have committed war crimes and crimes against humanity within the jurisdiction of the ICC.

The experts also support the arrest warrants against three Hamas leaders that Karim Khan requested at the same time as the arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant.

The arrest warrants issued against Netanyahu and Gallant and their unanimous support by a high-level panel of international law experts carry great moral weight. But it would be an illusion to believe that the International Criminal Court or any other legal or political institution will stop the genocide in Gaza and the war policies of the great powers.

They are preparing a third world war because the deep crisis of the capitalist system leaves themas in 1914 and 1939no other way out than the violent redivision of the world and the suppression of all political and social opposition. The imperialists will not be deterred by a warrant or a court decision.

The only way to stop the genocide in Gaza, the NATO war in Ukraine, and the preparations for war against China is to mobilize and unite the international working class in the struggle for a socialist program.
Israels attack on Rafah, the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip, has now displaced nearly 1 million people and massively intensified famine throughout the entire territory.

Palestinians wounded in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip are brought to Al Aqsa hospital in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, Thursday, May 23, 2024 [AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana]

This assault is taking place with the effective endorsement of the Biden administration, despite Bidens earlier public declarations that a full-scale attack on Rafah would be a red line for the White House.

On Tuesday, an unnamed senior Biden administration official told reporters, Its fair to say that the Israelis have updated their plans. Theyve incorporated many of the concerns that we have expressed, giving the administrations stamp of approval for the widening attack on the city.

On Thursday, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Israel had not carried out major maneuvers into dense urban areas. He added, What we have seen so far has not been that.

This is an absurd falsehood. Israel has been bombing Rafah non-stop and is pushing armored columns deep into the city, leading to the total suspension of humanitarian operations amid widespread hunger and starvation.

As a result of the offensive, only 150 trucks of food have entered Gaza since May 6. Were going back to levels of aid that we were getting in October when the war first started, said Sam Rose, planning director for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.

On Monday Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a meeting that Israel intends to broaden its offensive into the city. We are committed to broadening the ground operation in Rafah to the end of dismantling Hamas and recovering the hostages, Gallant said. Sullivan posed for a photo shaking the hand of black-shirted Gallant on the day that the International Criminal Courts (ICC) lead prosecutor brought charges against him.

In a column published the same day, Washington Post columnist David Ignatius said that US and Israeli officials had reached an agreement over the plans to attack Rafah. Ignatius wrote, Israeli leaders have reached a consensus about a final assault on Hamass four remaining battalions in Rafah, in a move that Biden wont oppose.

The Times of Israel wrote:

[T]he Biden administration appeared to signal its initial approval of the operation launched by Israel early Tuesday morning to take over the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

It added, Spokespeople for the administration said the goals of the operation were legitimate.

In response to the ICCs charges against Netanyahu, the Biden administration has effectively dropped its earlier token criticisms of the Israeli government, with Biden declaring Tuesday:

It is clear that Israel wants to do all it can to ensure civilian protection. Contrary to allegations against Israel made by the International Court of Justice, whats happening is not genocide.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate amid ongoing mass starvation imposed by the Israeli blockade.

In a briefing to the United Nations Security Council Tuesday, Edem Wosornu, a spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, called the situation hell on earth.

Wosornu said:

To be frank, we are running out of words to describe what is happening in Gaza. We have described it as a catastrophe, a nightmare, as hell on earth. It is all of these and worse.

She added, And living conditions continue to deteriorate as a result of heavy fighting, particularly in Jabalya and eastern Rafah, as well as Israeli bombardment from air, land and sea.

She noted that more than 35,000 people have been killed and another 79,000 injured, with 17,000 children unaccompanied or separated from their families.

She declared:

Since October 2023, 75 percent of the population in Gaza1.7 million peoplehas been forcibly displaced within Gaza, many of them up to four or five times, including as a result of repeated IDF-issued evacuation instructions.

In a statement, the UNs World Food Program (WFP) said it was running out of food in central Gaza. Humanitarian operations in Gaza are near collapse, said WFP spokesperson Abeer Etefa, adding that unless food is provided in massive quantities, famine-like conditions will spread, she said.

On Tuesday, Israeli troops launched raids into the Jenin refugee camp in the northern West Bank, attacking a local hospital and killing a doctor, a teacher and a ninth grade student.

Undercover forces raided the area suddenly, and they were firing at any moving body in the street, said ambulance driver Hazim Masarwa to Al Jazeera. They were targeting anything moving.

In a statement, the UN Human Rights Office in Palestine said:

We are horrified by the deadly Israeli Forces operation in Jenin: 7 Palestinians killed, including two children, one on his way to school, a school teacher, and a doctor. This senseless bloodshed must stop, and those responsible must be held accountable.
The Australian Labor governments response to the International Criminal Court (ICC) action against Israel over its genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza has been another display of cynical duplicity.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, on the right, at ASEAN Special Summit in Melbourne, March 6. [Photo: X/Twitter @AlboMP]

Labor has again sought to present itself as a disinterested party with no involvement, despite having backed the Israeli onslaught for the past seven months. At the same time, its leaders have repeated talking points of the Zionist regime and its principal sponsor, the US government, attacking and undermining the international court.

On Monday, the ICCs chief prosecutor Karim Khan applied for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, alleging that they had orchestrated the murder and extermination of the Palestinians. Khan also sought warrants for two senior Hamas leaders.

Since then, the Netanyahu government and the Biden administration have launched a frenzied campaign, denouncing the ICC and Khan in hysterical terms and calling into question the whole nominal framework of international law.

Labor has not gone as far, or been as explicit, but the implications of its position are clear. Responding to the announcement of the warrants, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) issued a statement noting Khans warrant and alluding to the independence of the ICC.

The statement declared, however, that there is no equivalence between Israel and Hamas. It demanded the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza and proclaimed: Any country under attack by Hamas would defend itself. And in defending itself, every country is bound by the same fundamental rules. Israel must comply with international humanitarian law.

The line about no equivalence has been repeated by a slew of government representatives, including Foreign Minister Penny Wong.

Speaking yesterday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese proclaimed: There is no equivalence between a terrorist organisation like Hamas... They confirmed on October 7 with the violent murders and the capturing of hostages that occurred on October 7, that that was the right designation for them to have and should not be compared with any nation state.

There is indeed no equivalence between Israel and Hamas, but in precisely the opposite sense to the lying statements of the government.

What occurred on October 7 had the character of an inevitable uprising of the long-oppressed. It came in the context of 75 years of dispossession and brutal oppression of the Palestinians, including a 16-year Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip. Previous peaceful protests, including the 20182019 right-of-return marches to the Gaza border wall, were routinely fired upon by the Israel Defence Forces, claiming hundreds of lives.

The hysterical references to October 7 also ignore the role of the Israeli government on that day. It has since been established that the Zionist regime was pre-warned of the assault and stood its soldiers down to create a pretext so that the long-planned destruction of Gaza could be carried out.

Hamas is a bourgeois nationalist organisation that has at various points in its existence functioned as something of a client of the Israeli regime, keeping other armed organisations and the masses in check. Its weaponry is primitive, as opposed to Israel, which receives tens of billions in arms and funding from the US and the other major powers, to play its role as a beachhead of imperialism throughout the region.

Israel, building on the war on terror methods of the US and its allies, including Australia, has perpetrated some of the worst war crimes of the past eighty years. Its actions have legitimately raised comparisons with the Nazi regime, in that Israel is an advanced industrial state seeking the extermination of an oppressed population.

Albaneses comments yesterday followed complaints from Zionist groups, the Murdoch media and the Liberal-National opposition that he had not joined Biden and Netanyahu in vitriolic denunciation of the ICC and defence of Israel. Albanese has now obliged.

His initial response was a pathetic attempt to deflect from Australias complicity. Albanese absurdly claimed he did not have a view on the warrants and then stated, I dont comment on court processes in Australia, let alone court processes globally which Australia is not a party.

The prime minister seemed to be invoking the separation of powers, which bars interference by the executive branch, the government, over the Australian judiciary. It has no bearing on Albaneses or any government ministers ability to comment on the actions of the ICC.

With his comments on Thursday, Albanese dispensed with this silly charade, making clear comments directed against the actions of the international court. That is, de facto, an attack on the framework of international law and an insistence that it does not apply to US and Australian allies.

So too was the assertion by DFAT and government ministers that Israel had a right to defend itself from Hamass attack. As United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese and other experts have noted time and again during the genocide, a nation state has no such right over the population of a territory that it is illegally occupying.

Labors hostility to the ICC warrants and Albaneses initial fiction that he could not even comment are belied by the governments record. In March 2023, when the ICC issued a warrant for the arrest of Russian President Vladimir Putin on charges of war crimes in Ukraine, it was immediately welcomed by DFAT and Labor.

Whatever crimes Russia has committed in Ukraine pale in comparison to the systematic slaughter being perpetrated by Israel. The conflict in Eastern Europe, moreover, is not the result of unprovoked Russian aggression but is a US-NATO proxy war aimed at inflicting a military defeat on Moscow effecting regime change and dismembering and occupying it. Australia has actively participated, funnelling more than a billion dollars of aid to Washingtons fascistic client state in Kyiv, most of it in weaponry to be directed against Russia.

The Labor government has not only backed the ICC move against Putin, but has invoked it in formulating its policy. As recently as February, Foreign Minister Wong issued a statement unveiling new sanctions on Russian government representatives, declaring that these were in line with the ICCs warrants.

The differing responses are another graphic expression of imperialist hypocrisy. They underscore the extent to which Labor is marching in lockstep with the US, as it oversees the genocide in Gaza, the proxy war against Russia and preparations for a catastrophic conflict with China in the Indo-Pacific.

It should be recalled that in March, a group of lawyers referred Albanese and his government to the ICC for investigation on charges of complicity in the Gaza genocide. In a meticulous brief, they outlined Labors repeated legitimisation of Israeli war crimes, as well as Australias assistance, political, diplomatic and material. Albanese could not refute that brief, instead vaguely dismissing it as disinformation.

That response and the current assault on the ICC demonstrate that the genocide will not be ended through the international courts or any other official mechanism. Instead, what is posed is the need for the independent intervention of the working class, against all of the governments responsible, the broader eruption of imperialist militarism and its root cause, the capitalist system.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan, including ambassadors, military attaches, and representatives of international organizations have visited Zerti Agro-Industrial Park within the Lachin Climate Action Dialogue, Trend reports.

The diplomats were informed about the animals at Zerti Agro-Industrial Park, as well as the container-type farms for fodder production and the cultivation of greens and tomatoes.

It was highlighted that all enterprises operating here are equipped with the latest technology. Besides gaining employment, residents of Lachin also acquire professional skills from specialists invited from abroad. In this sense, each enterprise in the Agro-Industrial Park also serves as a training center.

The diplomatic corps representatives then visited the Hochazfilm cinema pavilion, where they were briefed on the wide-ranging future activities of this multifaceted creative space.

These initiatives encompass large-scale projects to promote the Karabakh region, cover cultural events, support reconstruction in Lachin, promote the region's national brands and local products, collaborate with cinema and creative unions, and organize summer schools for youth, creative workshops, cinematography, drawing courses, and contests.

The pavilion meets international standards for technical equipment, including sound and light insulation.

The diplomats also observed the release of trout into a section of the Hakari River flowing through Lachin district, aimed at contributing to the restoration of the ecosystem in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur.

Following this, the exhibition "This is how a carpet was made," dedicated to May 28 - Independence Day, was inaugurated. The exhibition featured national carpets alongside various art pieces created in different styles.

This marked the conclusion of the visit to the city of Lachin by representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan.

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Some 500 students walked out of the commencement ceremony at Harvard University Thursday, taking up chants of Free Palestine and Let them walk! This referred to 13 students who were barred from graduation with their class by a vote of the top governing body at the college, the Harvard Corporation.

The 13 students were victimized for their actions as part of the protests against the Gaza genocide and Harvards continuing ties with the state of Israel and the US war machine. While the university administration did not make public their supposed offenses, one press account said that some of them were involved in cutting a gate lock, a trivial case of property damage.

The administration withheld their degrees despite an overwhelming vote by the faculty senate opposing this action and a petition signed by 500 faculty members and 1,500 students. Interim President Alan Garber was loudly booed as he opened the commencement, and he conceded that some among us may choose to take the liberty of expressing themselves to draw attention to events unfolding in the wider world.

The signal for the walkout was given by one of the three student speakers at the commencement, Shruthi Kumar, who deviated from the text of her address to pull a prepared statement out of the sleeves of her gown and read it. Kumar attacked the administration for its treatment of the anti-genocide protests, saying, This semester our freedom of speech and our expressions of solidarity became punishable, as students erupted in applause.

Gaza Solidarity Encampment at Harvard, before it was shut down by the university. [Photo: Sent in by a reader]

She said she wanted to honor the 13 undergraduates in the class of 2024 who will not graduate today, adding, I am deeply disappointed by the intolerance for freedom of speech and the right to civil disobedience on campus  this is about civil rights and upholding democratic principles.

Referring to the widespread support for the victimized students, she continued, The students had spoken. The faculty had spoken. Harvard, do you hear us?

She then said she was walking in support of those denied their degrees. These are my peers and friends, and I cant in good conscience celebrate when their families are in pain, she said. This is beyond politicsits about civil rights and civil disobedience. Were not intending to be disruptive or violent. But its making a statement, as a community, as the class of 2024.

Some of the same democratic sentiments were voiced by the main commencement speaker, Maria Ressa, a Filipino journalist who won the Nobel Peace Prize for her exposures of corruption and state killings under the regime of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The campus protests are testing everyone in America, Ressa said. Protests give voice; they shouldnt be silenced.

She also noted that she herself had been falsely accused of antisemitism for her opposition to the Gaza genocide, saying she had been called antisemitic by power and money because they want power and money.

The commencement protest came despite a heavy presence of police on the campus. This was a manifestation at Harvard of the crackdown being carried out on virtually every college campus where students have demonstrated, set up encampments or occupied buildings to declare their opposition to the Israeli genocide in Gaza and demand their universities break all ties with the Zionist regime and divest any holdings in companies that supply Israel with war materiel.

The harshest such crackdown Thursday came at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where hundreds of police were mobilized in response to students who set up a new encampment at the school after the previous encampment was broken up by police earlier this month. While police broke up the new protest site, smashing through improvised barricades, students staged a second protest, taking over a building.

The attack on student protesters and their supporters is being driven from Washington, where both the Biden administration and Republicans and Democrats in Congress have sought to criminalize opposition to the Gaza genocide, declaring all criticism of the actions of Israel to be antisemitic, even though many of the protesters are themselves Jewish. More than 3,000 have been arrested for participating in the protests since they began last month.

One focal point of this witch-hunting campaign has been a series of hearings conducted by the House Education Committee, chaired by Republican Representative Virginia Foxx, at which university presidents and superintendents of large public school systems have been hauled before the congressional panel and berated for insufficient repression of the campus protests.

The fourth such hearing was held Thursday, with the presidents of Rutgers University, Northwestern University and UCLA the targets of the witch-hunting. The first two universities were denounced for negotiating compromise agreements with the anti-genocide protesters. UCLA was chosen as a supposed example of a repressive response that was delayed for too long.

The choice of presidents to harass and vilify gives a glimpse of the thinly veiled bigotry of the Republican politicians, who control the committee and are the loudest in screaming slanders about antisemitism. Jonathan Holloway, president of Rutgers, is African American. Michael Schill, president of Northwestern, and Gene Block, chancellor of UCLA, are both Jewish.

Representative Foxx of North Carolina opened the hearing with a diatribe against the university presidents. Taxpayer dollars have no business funding universities without principles that align with the principles of this country, she said. Each of you refused to enforce your own rules, preserve campus safety and protect Jewish students.

Ranking Democrat Bobby Scott mildly pointed out the hypocrisy of the hearing, given that the Republicans refused to hold a hearing on the Charlottesville neo-Nazi rally in 2017, when hundreds of white supremacists marched, carrying torches in the style of a Hitler rally and chanting Jews will not replace us.

But more often in the course of the hearing, Democrats joined with the Republicans in grilling the presidents and vilifying anti-genocide protests. They all agreed that the traditional Palestinian slogan, From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, was a call for the extermination of the Jews, not a demand for democratic rights and equality.

At one point, Representative Elise Stefanik of New York, the fourth-ranking Republican leader in the House, sought to reprise her successful vilification of the presidents of Harvard, MIT and Penn last December. When she asked Schill about reported attacks on Jewish students, Schill replied that these allegations were under investigation and that he could not say in advance how long this would take. He concluded, Well, if you remember, the encampment was up just a few weeks ago. So we believe at Northwestern in due process. We believe in investigations, at which point Stefanik cut him off.

Representative James Comer, who has spearheaded his own witch-hunts as chair of the House Oversight Committee, also grilled the Northwestern president. He cited criticism of Schill by Zionist groups.

Schill replied, I believe that we got a good result. We were able to get rid of the major antisemitic event on the campus with no violence.

This slur against the students was not enough for Comer. He claimed that Schill achieved that goal by institutionalizing antisemitism and agreeing to the demands of antisemites.

Comer continued: In my view you are the easiest case we have dealt with. You agreed to the demands of those who are trying to change university policy in an antisemitic way and supported their tactics and use of force.

The Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at UCLA had a harsh and politically justified response to the hearing, calling it McCarthyist and a textbook example of political theater, which conflated calls for Palestinian liberation with antisemitism in order to justify suppression of the anti-genocide movement.
On Thursday April 25, Bogdan Syrotiuk  a socialist opponent of the fascistic Zelensky regime and the NATO-instigated Ukraine-Russia war  was arrested by the Security Service of Ukraine, the SBU, in his hometown of Pervomaisk in southern Ukraine.

Bogdan, who is 25 years old and in poor health, is being held in a prison in Nikolaev under atrocious conditions on fraudulent charges of serving the interests of Russia. In fact, Bogdan is an intransigent opponent of the capitalist Putin regime and its invasion of Ukraine. He fights for the unity of the working class in Ukraine, Russia and throughout the former Soviet Union.

If found guilty by a kangaroo court of these charges, Bogdan is threatened with a prison sentence of 15 years to life, which is equivalent to a death sentence.

The arrest of Bogdan is the latest example of the Zelenskys regimes brutal repression of left-wing movements, whose opposition to the war is finding a growing response within the Ukrainian working class.

The International Committee of the Fourth International and the World Socialist Web Site call for a global campaign to demand the immediate release of Bogdan Syrotiuk. The fight for Bogdans freedom is an essential component of the struggle against imperialist war, genocide and fascism.
Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree awarding Ismet Abasov with the Order "For Service to the Motherland" of the 2nd degree, Trend reports.

According to the decree, Ismet Abasov was awarded the Order "For Service to the Fatherland" of the 2nd degree for his fruitful activity in the public life of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has held phone discussions with his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock on the importance of cooperation within the framework of COP29, a source in the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan told Trend.

During the phone conversation, the importance of the event chaired by Azerbaijan and Germany in the format of the Petersberg Climate Dialogue within the framework of our countrys holding of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) was emphasized.

The parties also discussed the current state and prospects of Azerbaijani-German bilateral relations, the current situation in the region, as well as the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Detailed information was provided about the meeting of the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia, held on May 1011 in Almaty, and the need to continue negotiations was emphasized.

The agreements and confidence-building measures reached recently between Azerbaijan and Armenia were also noted, in particular the return of four villages belonging to Azerbaijan and the delimitation of part of the border in accordance with the agreement reached by the delimitation commissions.

An exchange of views also took place on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.

This November, Azerbaijan will host COP29. This decision was made at the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11 last year. Baku will become the center of the world and will receive about 7080,000 foreign guests.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. COPthe Conference of the Partiesis the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. There are 198 countries that are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.

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Say what you want about Meghan Markle (narcissistic, self-aggrandising, out-of-touch) but her greatest misstep is one of missed opportunity. Despite the Duchesss best efforts  her carefully-curated home goods line, that wanna-be state visit to Nigeria, a perfectly-plotted anniversary date night  barely one-third of Americans have a favourable opinion of Markle, far below Princes William, Harry and the Princess of Wales.

Armed with a new podcast deal and refreshed communications team, Markle is clearly continuing her relentless quest for relevance. But as the real royals in Windsor contend with double cancer crises, Markle has revealed herself as little more than the most infamous symbol of Americas high tolerance for low expectations.

No wonder Donald Trump has suggested Prince Harry could face deportation if it turns out the Duke lied about past drug use on his visa application. Harry and Meghan broke the Queens heart, said Trump during a lengthy interview with Nigel Farage in March. I think they hurt her bad.

It didnt have to be this way. Long before marrying her prince, Markle clearly understood the power of public image and personal achievement. Despite a minor role in a minor television franchise, she managed to parlay her innocuous persona into a fairly impressive celebrity existence. With her crowd-pleasing blog The Tig, Markle was an early embracer of the lifestyle content craze that has made rich folk like Gwyneth Paltrow and Reese Whiterspoon far richer. And she intelligently deployed her mixed-race heritage into a compelling, competitive-edge narrative just as America was embracing the power of identity politics nearly a decade ago.

For a nation consumed by representation, Markle  unrepentantly divorced and solidly middle class  represented the best of America: tolerant, multicultural, meritocratic. Sure, its unlikely she would have ever won an Oscar. But armed with style and that unassailable back-story, Markle was well on her way to securing official somebody-status  even if she was most famous in the sleepy confines of Toronto, where her show Suits was filmed.

Well-educated and supremely well-spoken, Markle likes to talk up those mid-level accomplishments and achievements. But ultimately, her greatest accomplishment will forever be becoming a Windsor. Indeed, despite aggressive efforts to rewrite the legacy of Queen Charlotte  whose supposed mixed ancestry has been lavishly conjured in the Bridgerton series  there has never been a multiracial royal. And the last divorcee to marry a senior family member wound up in exile on the continent.

Markle, however, had achieved what many had assumed was impossible, diversifying a thousand year-old institution for whom change typically arrives via assassination or warfare. But six years on, both she and her prince have squandered what could have been a meaningful opportunity. It appears as if the Sussexes squandering shows no sign of stopping.

The problem for Markle is that she still believes in the power of her achievements long after shes stopped achieving. She and Harrys $100 million Netflix deal has delivered little more than a pair of self-serving biopics. Their equally ambitious Spotify tie-up resulted in lost millions and the couple being branded as grifters by one of Spotifys own execs. As for the Nigeria trip, Harry and Meghan were apparently flown to Africa on airplanes owned by an alleged money laundering fugitive  unsurprising considering wherever they go they tend to live as big as possible while paying as little as possible.

If only they had remained in Britain. Not only would the pair be paid for living in a grand home, preparing traditional spreads, showing up at polo matches and embarking on world tours, Markle would have been doing work that actually matters. True, the spotlight would have been unyielding, the scrutiny possibly unforgiving  but is it any less so today, trapped, as the Sussexes are, in the simulacra of peerage while plotting out photo-ops?

As his ongoing Manhattan trial confirms, Donald Trump is clearly the last person to critique the comportment of others. But unlike the Sussexes, whove never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity, Trump is a prime example of opportunism done right. After all, despite his vulgarity and potential criminality, Trump managed to wind up in the White House.

As for Meghan and Harry  theyre idling in Montecito exile in an overpriced villa paid for by daddy while they wait for their next American Riviera Orchard drop. Perhaps its time to return to Britain where they could truly be useful, and where the opportunities afforded by Harrys birth are ultimately far more plentiful.

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Commentary: "Taiwan independence" provocations invite quick, resolute punishment

Xinhua) 08:10, May 24, 2024

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The People's Liberation Army on Thursday began two-day drills around the Taiwan Island.

This came just days after Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's new leader, made his debut speech filled with hostility and provocations of seeking "Taiwan independence," adopting an even riskier and more radical approach than his predecessors.

His ill-advised speech constituted a serious provocation against the one-China principle and inevitably triggered resolute countermeasures.

The drills are legitimate, timely and entirely necessary, as "Taiwan independence" acts in any form cannot be tolerated.

People across the Taiwan Strait have been yearning for the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, which kept deteriorating in the past eight years. They also long for the return of friendly exchanges and cooperation.

Ignoring these expectations, Lai has deliberately incited hatred toward the mainland and escalated confrontation and hostility across the Strait.

It is an attempt to bind the innocent people of Taiwan to the "Taiwan independence" chariot, which will only push Taiwan further to the brink of war.

Lai, in his speech, did not conceal his eagerness to sell out Taiwan to external forces. This was his attempt to seek external support for his "Taiwan independence" maneuver. Strong deterrent measures are imperative to draw the red line.

If "Taiwan independence" schemers are indulged in colluding with external forces to create chaos, it will bring the most dangerous change to the status quo across the Strait and the most severe damage to the prospects of peaceful reunification.

The Taiwan question is at the very core of China's core interests. Resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity is the common will of the 1.4 billion Chinese people.

It should be noted that the countermeasures are aimed at a very small number of "Taiwan independence" separatists and their separatist activities, and are by no means targeted at the Taiwan compatriots.

Reunification is the trend of history and the right path. "Taiwan independence" is a short-lived countercurrent and will lead nowhere.

The severer the provocations are, the stronger the countermeasures will be.

Any attempt to split the Chinese territory will be resolutely opposed by all Chinese, and will inevitably be crushed by the wheels of history moving forward.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 25. An event dedicated to Georgia's national holiday  the Independence Day  was held at the Heydar Aliyev Centre on 24 May, Trend reports.

Speaker of Milli Majlis (Parliament) Sahiba Gafarova attended the event.

The gathering started with an opening speech by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to our country Zurab Pataradze.

Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova conveyed the sincere congratulations and best wishes of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of the national holiday of our friendly and brotherly Georgia  the Independence Day.

In her address, the Speaker remarked upon the many similarities between the historical fates of the Georgian and Azerbaijani nations. At the beginning of the last century, we declared our state independences and did it almost simultaneously. At that time, the Democratic Republic established in Georgia played an exceptional role in the development of the statehood traditions of the Georgian nation, she was saying.

The Speaker of the Milli Majlis told the event participants that today's independent Georgia successfully continues the once-pending cause of the early 20th century. Georgia is developing confidently. The country is pursuing a well-thought-out policy aimed at socio-economic progress, improvement of the public well-being and securing the future of the people. The achievements made in all areas bring us as friends of Georgia immense joy.

The ties between Azerbaijan and Georgia have deep historical roots. For centuries, our peoples have been together, having always lived in amity and good neighbourliness, and having constantly supported each other. Our current relations are also based on this strong foundation and the will of our peoples. According to Sahiba Gafarova, our interstate relations have dynamically and comprehensively developed, reaching the level of strategic partnership in the period since the restoration of our independences. Mutual visits of the countries' leaders and their regular meetings are a clear expression of what great importance they attach to these relations. The high level of the political dialogue between the Heads of State gives a powerful impetus to the continuing strengthening and deepening of our relations in all areas.

Today, the mutually beneficial co-operation between our countries is successfully developing in many areas  economy, energy, transport-logistics, education, culture, tourism, and others. In fact, it would prove difficult to find an area in which we do not co-operate, said the Speaker of the Milli Majlis. The comprehensive activities of the Joint Inter-Governmental Commission on Economic Co-operation generate new opportunities for expanding our effective collaboration. Important projects jointly implemented by our countries ensure the prosperous future of our nations. Not only do those projects contribute to the stability and development of the South Caucasus but they also hold great significance for the entire Eurasian Region.

Sahiba Gafarova also broached our countries co-operation on international platforms, saying that the strong partnership existing between Azerbaijan and Georgia and the mutual trust and respect which feature as the principal characteristics of our relations are also reflected in our activities on the international stage. Azerbaijan and Georgia always demonstrate solidarity in all the international organisations. Especially, there is always mutual support in matters of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and inviolability of the borders of our countries. Azerbaijan's position on this issue is unequivocal.

As Sahiba Gafarova emphasised, today's relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia are a clear example of how important and beneficial close co-operation between the countries of the region can indeed be. Speaker Sahiba Gafarova said she was confident that our friendship and partnership, built on solid foundations, will continue to develop rapidly and serve the progress of our peoples.
Fashion photographers regularly seek out Onyx Mondragon.

The 38-year-old Gilbert resident of Mexican and Spanish American parentage told The Arizona Republic her "exotic" features have long elicited praise from her goth cohort. The attention prompts modeling work from publications catering to a subculture derived from dark, medieval aesthetics and accentuated by punk music, mourning attire and Victorian period elements.

Mondragon recalls being in her 20s and visiting Denvers goth scene, realizing how white it was and just how fully appreciated she was while there.

"They were completely fascinated with me," Mondragon said, adding a common refrain she heard was, "You are so exotic. Where are you from?"

For many who are not goth, the subculture appears to leave Latinas and other women of color in the shadows. Who the goth movement regards as its foremothers is restricted to white women like silent film vamp Theda Bara and campy 1950s TV hostess Maila Nurmi, a.k.a. Vampira. Additionally, much of goth makeup centers around white foundation.

The goth lifestyle, which often demystifies death and sometimes even celebrates it, aligns well with some Latinas in the American Southwest where Day of the Dead proves a cheerful tribute to the departed.

Through the goth lens, Mondragon holds a certain kinship with actress Jenna Ortega. Vogue Australia declared the 21-year-old ingenue of Mexican American and Puerto Rican descent, the ultimate new-age goth girl, while Elle.com has a running tally of Ortegas most fabulous goth-glam looks.

Ortega stars as Astrid, the rebellious daughter of Winona Ryders morose and clad-in-black Lydia Deetz character in Tim Burtons upcoming "Beetlejuice" follow-up, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice." With Michael Keaton reprising the title role from the 1988 original, an official trailer dropped Thursday. A budding actress, Ortega portrayed perennial goth Wednesday Addams on Burtons Netflix series "Wednesday."

Mondragon is among Latina and Hispanic goth girls in Arizona spanning three generations opened up to The Republic about all the ways they thrive under a pale moonlight.

Racks of garb

Growing up in the '90s in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mondragon was entranced by goth art and music during what she said was the subcultures "golden age."

Her artwork was "heavily influenced" by the Burton-directed "Edward Scissorhands" and the Burton-produced "The Nightmare Before Christmas," Mondragon said. She studied animation at the Art Center Design College in Albuquerque under the late Phil Young, who she learned had roomed with Burton when both worked at Walt Disney Animation Studios.

A graphic designer by trade, Mondragon clings to goth garb with racks of custom-made clothes at her home. A recent favorite is a red pleather dress based on the bare muscle-resembling armor that actor Gary Oldman sported in Francis Ford Coppola's 1992 film "Bram Stokers Dracula."

As a woman of color with "a penchant for odd things," Mondragon said she appreciates how the tribe of goths she found early on was so welcoming to "the misfits of society."

"Being an ethnically diverse person, I kind of see the beauty in that," she said. "And I think that's probably what drew me to it and kind of what endears me to it."

Drawing inspiration

For Giselle Torres, unburying her goth identity came about within the pages of her sketchbooks. Torres drawing style leaned on Swiss artist H.R. Giger and Japanese manga illustrator Kazuo Umezo. A book tied to her childhood as a Mexican American also became a basis for the 26-year-old Phoenix residents black ink drawings.

Influences from Alfred Avilas illustrated "Mexican Ghost Tales of the Southwest" began to creep into her compositions. "La Llorona" is a work by Torres inspired by the books illustration featuring the notorious weeping Mexican boogeywoman as a ghostly female apparition replete with jagged teeth and hollowed eyes.

Aside from Mexican folk tales like la Llorona, Torres has also drawn inspiration from Jose Guadalupe Posada. The 19th-century Mexican political cartoonist satirized high society through black-and-white skeletal imagery and created the Day of the Deads la Calavera Catrina archetype.

"I thought being goth was strictly a white thing. But when I grew older, there was elements of the Mexican community that one, from the outside, could find it to be pretty goth," Torres said.

Giselle Torres works on a piece in her sketchbook on May 13, 2024.

Torres foresees a bright  yet aptly dark  future for Latino and Hispanic representation in goth spaces through Ortegas presence.

Ortega herself appears to have faced challenges in establishing a goth personality.

"Ive always respected goth culture. Ive always had a darker sense of humor, but I never felt like I was able to express that. Now I feel like I can embrace those qualities in myself," Ortega told Vogue in an article published April 12, 2023.

Torres remains conscious of possible pushback and limitations. She pointed to reactionary gripes online whenever a character or role previously deemed white is depicted as a person of color. Ortega has been part of moves toward inclusion by way of her casting in Burtons productions and as one of the "Scream" franchises first Latina final girls, or slasher flick heroines.

And as welcomed as Ortegas prominence as a "goth icon" may be, Torres said, she is concerned the actress might prove to be "the only Latina representation."

Fragile mortality

Kris Martinez may not have seen many other Hispanic girls in film or on TV as a young teen, but seeing Ryder as Lydia in "Beetlejuice" gave her someone to style herself after. Much like Ortega is celebrated now, Ryder was herself regarded as a goth starlet for her roles in "Beetlejuice" and "Bram Stokers Dracula."

Martinez, however, tossed out her goth look early on to avoid possibly transgressing her strict Catholic upbringing.

These past several years have led to a shift for the 50-year-old Casa Grande resident, where her wardrobe is now exclusively black and her head of hair is routinely dyed in atypical colors like green and purple. "Ive decided at this age that I don't really care what anybody thinks anymore."

After the deaths of her brother in 2011 and her boyfriend of 26 years in 2022, Martinez said she fully accepts the fragileness of her own mortality. In her jewelry business, Slightly Twisted by Kris, Martinez regularly crafts wire-wrapped pendants, rings and earrings with coffin-shaped stones and skulls.

Even as Catholicism initially pushed her away from her calling as a goth, Martinez considers the Catholic burial rites are partly why she is comfortable using death motifs in her jewelry.

"I think goths tend to look at that and tend to romanticize it," she said. "It doesn't make it look scary."

Strutting at ease

The air had a thick coldness to it on the Saturday night of Feb. 10 as Martinez made her way to the Valley for the Arizona Goth Festival in south Phoenix. The annual event draws performers, vendors like Martinez and spectators, and is organized by the Arizona Goth Society. Martinez, Mondragon and Torres are part of the 4-year-old, nearly 8,000-member Facebook group dedicated to bringing goths across the state together.

Surrounded by hundreds of fellow goths, Mondragon was at ease as she strutted into the event in her "Bram Stokers Dracula" dress.

"I don't think I've ever met another kind of community that accepts all those walks of lives in one place, and it's not considered weird," she said. "It just means youre allowed to be whoever you are, as you are."

Reach breaking news reporter Jose R. Gonzalez at jose.gonzalez@gannett.com or on X, formerly Twitter: @jrgzztx.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 'Beetlejuice' star Jenna Ortega lifts Latina goths out of the shadows
CANNES PHOTOS: See the standout moments from this year's film festival

Grace VanderWaal, from left, Giancarlo Esposito, Aubrey Plaza, director Francis Ford Coppola, and Romy Mars pose for photographers upon arrival at the premiere of the film 'Megalopolis' at the 77th international film festival, Cannes, southern France, Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP)

CANNES, France (AP)  The Cannes Film Festival draws glamour to itself like a moth to the flame.

Over the last two weeks, the French Riviera spectacular has played host to dozens of anticipated movie premieres, nightly ballets of high fashion on the red carpet and even a visit from the Olympic flame ahead of this summer's games in Paris.

Through it all, Associated Press photographers have captured some of the most indelible moments of the festival, which draws to a close Saturday.

Perhaps more than any other recent Cannes, this year's festival attracted many prominent members of Hollywood's old guard, among them Francis Ford Coppola, Meryl Streep, George Lucas, Paul Schrader, George Miller and Kevin Costner.

Coppola premiered his long-awaited sci-fi epic Megalopolis. Schrader returned to Cannes with a film about a dying filmmaker, Oh, Canada. Miller launched Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. Costner debuted the first installment of Horizon: An American Saga. Streep received an honorary Palme d'Or, with Lucas to get one, too, on Saturday.

Some young stars showed respect. Ahead of the Furiosa premiere, Anya Taylor-Joy saluted her director, Miller.

This year's festival has also been surrounded by current events that filtered into the pageantry. Some nods to the outside world were subtle, like the Palestinian colors that stealthily adorned Cate Blanchett's dress. Other displays were more overt. French actor and director Judith Godreche led a #MeToo moment on the red carpet as she and others covered their mouths in tribute to victims of sexual abuse.

The 77th Cannes Film Festival concludes Saturday with the presentation of its top award, the Palme d'Or.

___

For more coverage of this years Cannes festival, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/cannes-film-festival
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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.
Movie Review: This is her, now, in space: J.Lo heads to a new galaxy for AI love story in 'Atlas'

Lets all be clear, if we werent already, that when it comes to Jennifer Lopez, it's about the love story. Always the love story.

J.Lo the pop star, singing about rekindled love on her latest album, This is Me  Now. J.Lo the rom-com regular, making movies about seeking love (including the extremely autobiographical film of the same name.) J.Lo the real-life celebrity goddess, in countless headlines about  what else?

Love, for better or worse.

And so if we tell you that now, we have J.Lo in Atlas, playing a data analyst who travels to a planet populated solely by evil AI bots preparing to extinguish humanity, well, your only question really should be, Wheres the love story?

Glad you asked! Because there is one. It may not be with a human. It may actually be with a computer program. But there is one. Because Atlas, an often ridiculous sci-fi epic with dialogue cheesier than a Brie wheel but also an old-fashioned, human heart o gold, is a J.Lo movie. Through and through.

Well give the filmmakers some credit: Atlas, directed by Brad Peyton (San Andreas) is timely. And not just because Lopez has been in the news lately, but because the subject is AI  which has been in the news even more than Bennifer, believe it or not.

We begin our story on Earth, way off into the future, at a time where someone can say Remember there used to be things called smartphones? and everyone laughs. A montage of news reports informs us that things have not been going well for the human race. AI, created to advance humanity, has turned against it, killing over 1 million civilians.

The evil AI leader is Harlan (Simu Liu), who after turning on humanity has escaped to an unknown location far from Earth. But when an associate of his, Casca, is captured on Earth, the head of ICN, a coalition of nations fighting the AI menace, calls on Atlas Shepherd (Lopez) to help question him. Who better than the woman who's devoted her life to the hunt for Harlan?

We learn Atlas is not a happy person. Also, she's addicted to coffee  quad Americanos, to be precise. And she hates  absolutely hates  AI, for reasons unknown.

Anyway, Atlas deftly manages to obtain Harlan's location from Casca, and soon finds herself begging to join a mission to his far-off planet to capture the villainous bot, with whom she shares a mysterious past connection. At first, mission commander Banks (Sterling K. Brown) objects strenuously, but quickly and rather illogically changes his mind. (Both Liu and Brown deserve much better roles than the generic, lifeless ones they're given.)

Soon theyre off, to GR-39 in the Andromeda galaxy, where the ICN space rangers fall into a disastrous trap laid by Harlan. Its here that Atlas meets the most important other person in the movie  well, not a person. Its her AI software, who proves her crucial ally once Atlas is forced to crash land, in her mechanized battle suit, onto the planet.

The key issue is trust-building. Atlas, as we said, doesn't trust AI. As the two get to know each other, the software gives himself (he has a default male voice) a name: Smith.

Atlas: Is that really necessary? Smith: Names create an emotional reaction. Atlas: Youre a computer program.

The plan consists of finding Harlan, defeating his dastardly plot to destroy humanity and getting off the planet  all while hopefully staying alive. At every step, Smith informs Atlas with all the data at his disposal how precisely desperate the odds are. This results in some amusing banter as Smith, voiced by Gregory James Cohan, "learns" sarcasm and humor.

As for Atlas, she needs to learn how to let down her guard  or rather, her brain walls. Her mistrust of AI leads her to stubbornly refuse (at first) Smiths entreaties to use the neural link  a pathway into each others brains  that will vastly enhance Atlas' chances of survival, combining her analytic capacity with Smiths data access.

Harlan doesnt appear until halfway into the movie, and we soon learn something about the tragic past he shares with Atlas. In any case, its Smith, not Harlan, that ultimately evokes real feeling from Atlas  and gives Lopez a chance to emote, which she does reasonably well given the mediocre dialogue. You could call it a futuristic triangle: Human, bad AI, good AI.

Who will win out? Our protocol, as Smith would say, doesnt allow us to give spoilers. But you can guess one idea that emerges shining bright: Its a four letter word that starts with L.

Atlas, a Netflix release, has been Rated PG-13 for strong sci-fi violence, action, bloody images and strong language. Running time: 118 minutes. One and a half stars out of four.
Brainy political lightning rod Oliver Stone isnt making feature films anymore. Sure, hed love to add a 21st to his 20 films to date; he just cant find backers. His alternate route, like many other directors today, from fellow Cannes entrant Ron Howard (Jim Henson: Idea Man) to Martin Scorsese, is documentaries.

Stone has churned out a career total of ten, including recent 2021 Cannes entry JFK Revisited (Showtime) and 2022 eco-doc Nuclear (Abramorama). His latest, Lula, marks a move to the left from his much-criticized recent portraits of dictators such as Cubas Fidel Castro (HBOs Comandante) and Russias Vladimir Putin (Showtimes four-part The Putin Interviews).

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Since his start as a filmmaker in the 1970s, the Yale-grad-turned-Vietnam-vet, now 77, has leaned into political fiction, from Salvador, Wall Street, and W., to Best Director Oscar-winners Platoon and Born on the Fourth of July. His last Oscar nomination came in 1996, for Nixon, after earning three Oscar nominations including Best Picture in 1992 for controversial global smash JFK.

More informed than most, historian Stones complex global viewpoint is more nuanced than the current polarized American political landscape will tolerate. He has alienated folks on every side of the political debate. He has been criticized for promoting violence with Natural Born Killers, celebrating a whistleblower in Snowden, and conducting affable documentary interviews with Castro and Putin. My main causes are America and keeping peace in the world, said Stone at the Hotel du Cap outside Cannes. And America plays a fundamental role there. And unfortunately, weve been bad boys.

Now hes taking a walk on the Left side with Lula, co-directed with frequent collaborator Rob Wilson, a friendly portrait of Brazils working-class hero president Lula da Silva, who never finished school, learned to read at ten, built a labor movement, commanded an 83 percent approval rating when he left office in 2011, and then was thrown in jail on a trumped up charge by the right-leaning courts, abetted by the corporate-owned right-wing media, opening up a path for controversial right-wing Jair Bolsonaro to win the office of president.

The Edge of Democracy Netflix

Stone got help from Brazilian Oscar-nominated filmmaker Petra Costa, whose 2019 Edge of Democracy covered the way the right wing took over the elections in Brazil. Her film is definitely worth seeing and were not trying to go into that depth because her film is directed at her country, he said. This one is directed more at the rest of the world. I wouldnt say news is being broken, but the story is unknown to the U.S..

Stone again is in the Cannes Official Selection hoping to make a sale in a challenging market for non-fiction fare. Showtime is no more. Like Francis [Coppola], were out there, said Stone. I saw him. Hes quite ballsy. And its his own money.

He also relies on reporting from controversial journalist Glenn Greenwald, who helped to break the Edward Snowden NSA whistleblower scandal. Glenn Greenwald is the Donald Sutherland figure from JFK in this movie, said Stone, whos giving all of the background to the audience in a quick and concise manner.

When Stone went on a South American tour, he interviewed seven leftist presidents for documentary South of the Border (2009), including Lula during his first term in office. Lula is a beautiful, extraordinary story, said Stone. Its just to give credit to a man who has been around a long time. Its a movie, if you think about it: working class hero emerges out of nowhere. Hes got no education. I dont think he even learned how to read until he was about ten. Its from the bootstraps up and dire poverty. He worked his way up to the trade union ladder. And he got into union leadership, which is unbelievable, because the Workers Party was not a big deal back then. And he made the Workers Party over time, into one of the leading power centers in Brazil, which, given how the [country] was stacked against lower classes, is an amazing story. As if Eugene Debs became president of the United States.

More viewers in the U.S. would likely recognize the flamboyant Bolsonaro, who is constantly in the news, more than Lula. I didnt realize until looking at all the news reports recently, said Stone, how blunt Bolsonaro has been about calling for a coup everywhere.

What got Bolsonaro into office after Brazils most popular president ever was lawfare. [Lula] leaves office in 2011 with an approval rating of 83 percent, said Stone. How often do you get that when youre a president of any country? It goes to show that there was a huge, almost unanimous approval of him after eight years, where all the media is controlled by rich people. And theyre definitely to the right over there in South America. He goes, they vote for his favorite candidate, Dilma Rousseff, whos an important, extraordinary woman. She turns and becomes president and in her second term, they start to revolt. The right wing begins to activate strongly. And they impeached her on the basis of bookkeeping bullshit. So they got rid of her very happily. And then they came for Lula.

The former president is tried and convicted on trumped up charges  that were completely unsubstantiated  by the politically motivated court. Stone starts filming after Lula comes out of the jail after 19 months. Lawfare is a way to get rid of somebody whos legitimate by the media and the judiciary, said Stone. And they have an independent judiciary in Brazil.

The question is whether this could happen in the United States. This guy Bolsonaro came along, said Stone. And he was in Congress since the early 90s. And hes been calling for a coup since the early 90s. You can do that in Brazil. In America, they would throw you in jail. Youre not allowed [by law] to call for the overthrow of a government. Trump didnt cross that line. He never said that. He may have implied it. But no, he was careful about that. Trump keeps saying, Im a Democrat. People will put me in if you just let me fucking get a little election. So theres similarities to Brazil, for sure. Because look how close Bolsonaro came once Lula got to jail.

The nailbiter scene in the movie is the 2022 election, as Bolsonaro and Lula watch the numbers come in over a long, long night. The mentality in Brazil is that we need law and order, said Stone. Law and order is a big deal. People get that its a stock phrase, think of Nixon: Law and order, law and order. It seems to work. It registers with the poor, it registers with the rich, it registers with the middle class especially. And thats what Bolsonaro has been saying all along: We need a cleaning out of the government, we need to have military people running the show. They know what theyre doing.'

Lula

The vote among the Brazilians was close. In the end, Lula wins. In this whole thing, Lula has been very cool, said Stone. And let this thing play out. But Lula is interested in a bigger picture of running the country and making it work. So that the peoples party, the Workers Party will stay in power, or at least be close to the levers of power.

One reason Lula stayed in power so long was that the economy was flourishing. So even the people that wouldnt support him later, were supporting him then because they benefited. Lula is instructive for audiences in the US. Its good to know that a person can get elected, serve two terms, deliver for people and leave office.

President Biden is doing measurably well in terms of the economy and helping people get the things that they need to lead a decent life. But his approval rating remains low, at 38 percent, because of the right wing medias dominant alternate narratives. Stone is a Democrat who voted twice for Barack Obama, but disapproves of Bidens stance on Ukraine. I dont like Trump, he said. Maybe I like Kennedy. You have to allow for that choice. Because I dont read the media religiously. I do not buy their line. Americas on a road to war, and I dont think its a good one. Just today we raised the number of our commitment to Ukraine, so we have to be careful. This is how you get to a War World War I situation. Ive been a fan of peace.

Next up: Stone has been writing a second book, the follow up to Chasing the Light, which is a bitch, he said. The whole thing has been hard to do; 40 years telling a long story short.

Stones long-gestating memoir film White Lies is not getting made: It doesnt deserve the fate it would get in studio hands. I am pursuing something. Ive one more. Fernando Sulichin is producing it. And Rob [Wilson] is involved. But Im old. Im not as independently wealthy as Francis. Like everybody else, Im subject to market conditions and actors. Getting the right elements together and the budget and by God, by the time you make a movie, youre dead. Even when you start, youre dead, right?

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Pregnant Hailey Bieber Bares Her Bump as She Enjoys Trip to Japan: 'Cherry Blossom in My Belly'

The Rhode founder announced earlier this month that she is pregnant with her first baby with husband Justin Bieber

Hailey Bieber/Instagram Hailey Bieber on vacation in Japan

Hailey Bieber is setting the tone for her pregnancy style.

On Friday, May 24, the Rhode founder, 27, who announced earlier this month that she is expecting her first baby with husband Justin Bieber, 30, shared a carousel of photos on her Instagram from the couple's trip to Japan.

In one photo, Hailey wears a yellow knit hat and a yellow crop top, donning low rise pants that show off her growing bump. Another photo shows the model in a leather vest and leather jacket, both unbuttoned to show off her stomach.

"little cherry blossoms on my nails little cherry blossom in my belly ," Hailey wrote in her caption.

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Related: Pregnant Hailey Bieber Flaunts Bare Baby Bump in Candid Photos with Justin: 'Mom n Dad'

On Thursday, May 23, Justin proudly shared some new snaps of his wifes baby bump. In the first photo of the Instagram carousel, Hailey cradled her bump in a sheer black top. She also wore a black leather jacket, blue jeans and a pair of sunglasses.

The shot was followed by a blurry version of Hailey striking the same pose, along with various other snaps of the pair enjoying their trip to Japan. They wish baby, they wish, Justin captioned the carousel.

Last week, Hailey was photographed leaving Billie Eilish's listening party on Thursday, May 16, at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, Calif., baring her bump as she smiled for the cameras.

Wearing a red Fila hat and a black-and-red leather racing jacket, Hailey opted for a small white tank top and low rise shorts that showed off her growing belly.

Earlier this month, Hailey confirmed she and husband Justin Bieber are expecting their first baby together, sharing the exciting news on Instagram. A rep for Hailey confirmed to PEOPLE that the model is just over six months pregnant.

Posting a video from their vow renewal, Hailey wore a long, lacy white dress and a veil, highlighting her growing bump. She also included photos of herself standing with Justin in a field. Placing his arms around her belly, Justin stood behind her, showing off their matching wedding rings.

The pregnant model kept her caption simple, just tagging her husband.

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Its been a roller coaster ride for the royal family over the last few years with the family feud being at the forefront of the news. However, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have found solid ground in 2024 after a very rocky road in 2023. Prince William and Kate Middleton probably wish they were on a similar path, but the Princess of Wales health crisis has been a major setback for them.

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With the Sussexes thriving, its understandable that there is major pressure on Prince William to deliver with his pet projects like the Earthshot Prize. Tom Bower, author of Revenge: Meghan, Harry, and the War Between the Windsors, told Woman magazine, via The Sun, that Harry and Meghans success is rubbing salt in the wound for the Waleses. I can imagine that Kate and William are deeply upset by having the Sussexes brand operation rubbed in their face while theyre going through this tragedy, claimed the royal expert, who is always critical of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

TOPSHOT  Britains Prince Harry (R), Duke of Sussex, and Britains Meghan (L), Duchess of Sussex, take part in activities as they arrive at the Lightway Academy in Abuja on May 10, 2024 as they visit Nigeria as part of celebrations of Invictus Games anniversary.

Bower thinks the timing of Harry and Meghans rebrand is inappropriate given the health issues of both Kate and King Charles III. While theyre establishing this so-called brand Sussex, the family here is going through torment, he added. After Charles diagnosis, Harry came over for half an hour and thats it, hes done nothing else. The author may want to remind himself that Harry tried to see his father during his recent U.K. visit, even inviting him to the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Invictus Games, but Charles declined.

After Harry and Meghans successful tour in Nigeria, the Mirror is reporting that the West African country of Ghana is eager to have the couple visit. There is already a lot of talk and excitement in Ghana, everyone is so keen for Harry and Meghan to come and experience the great culture and warmth, a source gushed. Several top names have already visited Ghana in recent years from Ed Sheeran, Naomi Campbell, and One Directions Liam Payne. Idris Elba, who DJd at Harry and Meghans wedding is a regular too, he is part-Ghanaian and loves spending time back home.' The Sussexes did their best to keep the Nigerian visit informal so it wouldnt look like a royal tour, and the palace is going to have to accept that Harry and Meghan have global appeal.

If the Duke and Duchess of Sussex hadnt pivoted with their work this year, they would have been criticized for being in their post-royal flop era. However, they have found a groove that is working for them, and it just so happens to come at a time when the royal family is experiencing multiple setbacks. Nobody could have predicted these events, so royalists need to stop blaming Harry and Meghan for succeeding while the palace is down.

Before you go, click to see all the biggest royal scandals in the past 50 years.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The 10 highest peaks in Nevada offer challenges to hikers and rewards including wildlife, amazing views and a major break from the heat in the valleys below.

As summer arrives, its time to think about taking advantage of the Nevadas status as the second-most mountainous state (behind only Alaska), boasting more than 300 named mountain ranges. There are taller mountains in other states, but theres plenty to explore in the Silver State.

The list, as provided by Peakbagger.com, along with a short description of each:

Boundary Peak, 13,139 feet: Some dispute whether its even a separate peak because its so close to Montgomery Peak across the California border, but it holds the title as the highest point in Nevada. Its rated as an advanced hike, 8-mile round trip starting at an elevation of 9,874 feet. Wheeler Peak, 13,063 feet: A hike to Wheeler Peak is one of the highlights of a trip to Great Basin National Park. This hike is 8.6 miles round trip, beginning at Wheeler Peak Campground (10,160 feet). Doso Doyabi, 12,771 feet: The second-highest peak in Great Basin National Park goes by the Shoshone name for White Mountain. Older references call it Jeff Davis Peak. Baker Peak, 12,305 feet: Next at Great Basin, theres Baker Peak, third highest in the park and fourth highest in the state. Be ready for a rugged 15-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 4,000 feet. Mount Moriah, 12,067 feet. An 8-mile out-and-back hike is considered moderately challenging, starting at 10,000 feet from Big Canyon  a long and rough road. Mount Jefferson, 11,941 feet: The southern peak is the tallest mountain in Nye County. Its about 50 miles northeast of Tonopah. From Pine Creek Campground, its an 11.8-mile round trip. Pyramid Peak, 11,926 feet: Back to the Snake Range, which runs through Great Basin National Park, theres Pyramid Peak. Various routes are available, including Baker Creek Trail, a 13.4 mile route with a 4,452-foot elevation gain. Charleston Peak, 11,916 feet: Limited access due to trail closures. When the South Loop Trail is open (not now) its a 15.8-mile round trip with a 4,309-foot elevation gain. North Schell Peak, 11,883 feet: In the Schell Range northeast of Ely, an 11.4-mile hike on the Timber Creek Trail will get you there with an elevation gain of 4,628 feet. Mount Jefferson, North Summit, 11,814: A number of websites report that the trail from the south peak to the North Summit is overgrown and hard to follow.

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Joel Brewster of the Las Vegas Mountaineers Club says he has done them all. And why stop there? The club has a regional reach with its own list of 50 peaks. Most are within a four-hour drive from Las Vegas. Brewster said 38 of the peaks on the list are in Nevada including Nevadas top 10.

Put a list in front of a serious hiker, and watch them go. Brewster said 30 people have finished the list of 50 peaks, and he was the fifth to accomplish it.

Mt. Charleston from the northeast with bristlecone pines. (FILE | Adobe Stock)

For most casual hikers in the Las Vegas area, its starting to get too hot in the valley and Mt. Charleston is the next go-to destination. But damage from last summers bout with the remnants from Hurricane Hilary have changed the landscape, and the most-traveled routes to Charleston Peak arent available this year. There are still a couple of ways to get there, but it might be a good time to think about expanding your range.

That doesnt mean you have to start at the top of the list.

The number of peaks at Great Basin National Park make it a great place to start.

Great Basin is such a nice park, Brewster said. Its easy to get a campsite and avoid crowds, unlike other national parks that tend to be overrun, he said.

Doso Doyabi Peak at Great Basin National Park, Nevada. (FILE | Adobe Stock)

Seven of the states top peaks are there, so youll find a lot of great hiking, and you might even see Nevadas only glacier at the base of Wheeler Peak at about 11,500 feet.

And Great Basin keeps on delivering after dark. The stargazing is fantastic, and the mountains are amazing, Brewster said.

Theres a little more traffic to Boundary Peak because of its status as the tallest. Hiking websites list all kinds of information about peaks, and serious mountaineers pay attention to rankings like prominence, and even the highest point in each mountain range and in each county. Checking those boxes is an added level of interest as you go down each list.

Brewster lists some other peaks to check out, some for their views and some for their challenges.

Nearby Hayford Peak (9,912 feet) in the Sheep Range has a nice view of Mt. Charleston, and Frenchman Mountain, the lowest peak on the list of 50 (4,052 feet), gives great views of Las Vegas and Lake Mead. Thats a nice one even though its sort of a suburban peak, Brewster said, adding that its a better destination in the winter.

He likes Moapa Peak (6,471 feet)  a steep hike with a 3,500-foot climb in a 6-mile round trip. Described as a true desert classic on summitpost.org, Moapa Peak requires a combination of hiking, mountaineering and scrambling. Brewster describes a knife-edge summit ridge thats only 3 or 4 feet wide.

And Currant Mountain (11,513 feet) in central Nevada features some unique geology  lumpy rock that Brewster describes as dumped cake batter.

Wheeler Peak at Great Basin National Park, Baker, Nevada. (FILE | Adobe Stock)

Before you get ahead of yourself, listen to experience. Brewster recommends working up to these peaks slowly. He says its OK to get a little out of your comfort zone, but just a little bit. Be prepared and get good gear  youll need it.

Always carry your own water and make sure people know where you are going and when you will return.

And mountain hiking brings some other safety concerns that you should think about. Dangerous wildlife encounters are rare, but mountain lions are out there and at least one person in the mountaineers club has seen one up close.

Wheeler Peak. (FILE | Adobe Stock)

A more common concern is the weather. Brewster remembers being caught in a lightning storm on Mt. Charleston.

Its not fun. Ive been up there, he said. I was going up North Loop. It started sprinkling but it didnt look too ominous. All the sudden it started getting serious.

Above the timberline, theres no cover. And when it started coming in really hard, Brewster was as close as a half mile to lightning strikes.

Weather changes fast at high altitudes, and its best to avoid the highest trails if theres even a chance of lightning.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
14th annual Laurel Hill Arts and Heritage Festival scheduled for next month

LAUREL HILL, Fla. (WKRG)  Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church is hosting the 14th annual Laurel Hill Arts and Heritage Festival on June 1.

The event will showcase Okaloosa Countys arts, crafts, history, traditions, food and music.

Drivers celebrate toll-free ride into and out of Orange Beach on Foley Beach Express

It runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, at the church, which is located at 8115 4th Street.

FESTIVAL LOCATION:

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This one will be our biggest yet, Leon Curenton, one of the events organizers, said. Were looking forward to a great day of music, food, art, cultural displays and fun for everybody.

1955 Pensacola Jaycees Little League Baseball Team honored with historical marker at Community Maritime Park

Event organizers teamed up with the Crestview Artists Collective, which resulted in several new exhibitors planning to attend the event.

We love connecting the community to the arts through festivals and markets, Crestview Artists Collectives organizer Sarah Searfos said. We bring a variety of visual and multi-media artists for guests to interact with, including opportunities to collect artwork by local artists from the festival.

(Photo courtesy of Brian Hughes)

(Photo courtesy of Brian Hughes)

(Photo courtesy of Brian Hughes)

There will be live music at the festival including performances from the North Okaloosa Community Band, the Caleb Williams Jazz Band, Emerald Coast Pipes and Drums, the Orange Calico Skii Vacation acoustic and jazz duo and the NWF Share Homeschool Choir.

Featured vendors include the Laurel Hill Little Free Libraries, the Crestview History Museum, the Baker Block Museum, the Crestview Area Sister City Program, Crestview Boy Scout Troop 773 and Country Girl Grill.

Leadership changes coming to Mobiles Office of Resilience and Sustainability

Parking is available at the Laurel Hill School track, which is at the corner of 4th Street and Park Place.

Booth space is limited. For those looking to set up a booth, click here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. On May 24, another group of former internally displaced persons, consisting of families temporarily settled in dormitories, sanatoriums, pioneer camps and administrative buildings in various territories of Azerbaijan, was sent to the Sus village of the Lachin district from the Garadagh district of Baku, Trend reports.

At this stage, another 33 families (140 people) moved to the Sus village.

The resettled families will settle in the houses where they once lived in Fuzuli, which were restored or rebuilt on the basis of instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation. Fuzuli residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care, expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Fuzuli has been provided for 59 families - 215 people.
If You Use These 3 Phrases, You Have Higher Emotional Intelligence Than Most, Psychologists Say

Woman speaking with high emotional intelligence

Has anyone ever told you that youre a people person? Are you someone who people gravitate toward easily, and youre able to empathize and understand the challenges that someone else is going through? Do you freely and easily share your emotions? Then you join the 36% of people worldwide who can accurately identify their emotionsresearch that was gathered through Dr. Travis Bradberry, an expert in emotional intelligence. But what is emotional intelligence exactly? Are there certain phrases that might showcase your emotionally intelligent traits?

What Is Emotional Intelligence?

As Dr. Melanie McNally, clinical psychologist and author of The Emotionally Intelligent Teen, says, emotional intelligence is when a person has awareness and understanding of their own internal state (thoughts, emotions, physical sensations), the ability to regulate themselves when upset or escalated and an understanding of how others might be feeling and thinking.



Psychologist Emma Seppala, Ph.D., who teaches emotional intelligence at the Yale School of Management and is the author of SOVEREIGN: Reclaim Your Freedom, Energy & Power in a Time of Distraction, Uncertainty and Chaos (Hay House, April 23, 2024), adds another trait: connection, which she defines as the ability to communicate with others successfully, allowing everyone to feel seen, heard, valued and appreciated.



Psychologist Steven M. Sultanoff, Ph.D., a professor at Pepperdine University who includes emotional intelligence as an area of expertise, breaks down the characteristics of emotional intelligence even further:

Empathy: youre capable of reflecting how someone is feeling and why they feel that way without interjecting ones own bias.

Persistence: you can keep going in the face of challenges and differentiate between realistic goals and unrealistic ones while working toward those realistic goals.

Self-motivation: you can overcome inertia, or stuckness, maintain progress and utilize uplifting emotions like joy, passion and excitement to enhance progress.

Self-control: you can manage your own emotions, even the potent ones, so that decision-making ends up as a blend of emotions and cognitions.

Related: 35 Simple, Sincere Phrases To Express Empathy, According to Therapists

What Are the Benefits of Having Emotional Intelligence?

If these indications sound a lot like you, theres a good chance that youre emotionally intelligent, and its something that youll likely want to continue to work at and improve, especially since there are many benefits associated with this state of being.

Our experts lay out all of the tangible benefits of having high emotional intelligence:

Better communication and relationships with others

Ability to stay calm under stress

Improved chances of getting hired for jobs

Positive experiences for others after talking with youthey feel seen, heard, valued and appreciated.

Better empathy and understanding of others

Emotional self-understanding, which can guide effective decision-making

Persistence that leads to getting things done and accomplishing more goals

Self-motivation that fosters independence

Self-control that manages interpersonal relationships

In other words? If you have high emotional intelligence, youll be more likely to have better relationships with your partner, family members and friends, get hired for a job you desire and achieve the goals you set for yourself. And if you find that you often use the following three phrases, you could be already enjoying these benefits or on your way to them through developing your emotional intelligence.

Related: 6 Things Successful People *Always* Do in a Conversation, According to a Neuropsychotherapist

If You Use These 3 Phrases, You Have Higher Emotional Intelligence Than Most

1. An I Feel Phrase

Dr. McNally says that an "I feel" statement, which includes what the individual is feeling, why they're feeling that way and what they need, is a type of phrasing that denotes emotional intelligence. For instance, you might say, I feel overwhelmed because the kitchen is such a mess. I would like it if you could help me clean it."

This shows high emotional intelligence because the person is articulating what they're feeling and then doing something about it, Dr. McNally says. In contrast, someone with low emotional intelligence might avoid the kitchen because it's too overwhelming without realizing why (low self-awareness) or they might make passive aggressive or overtly aggressive comments to others about what slobs they are (lack of self-regulation).

2. An I Want Phrase

A phrase that begins with I want, according to Dr. Seppala, is often one that shows emotional intelligence. She explains that an I want phrase could be the expression of anything one wants, from the simple to the more complex.

Embracing I want demonstrates being in tune with oneself and having the ability to validate and respect ones desires, she says.

3. HelloHow Are You Today?

With this phrase, Dr. Sultanoff says that an emotionally intelligent person shows curiosity. They really mean it, unlike the lip service we often hear, he says. They look into your eyes and are interested in your actions.

Related: Want to Display Your Active Listening Skills? Try Using These 33 Powerful Phrases

Why Do Some People Have Higher Emotional Intelligence Than Others?

Emotional intelligence starts at home, Dr. McNally says. Kids learn it from their parents, so when they have ones who model healthy self-awareness, good self-regulation skills and have strong interpersonal skills, they'll likely grow into adults with high emotional intelligence.



Additionally, we can learn emotional intelligence at school, from friends, colleagues and media consumption like books, television, movies and social media, as Dr. McNally details.



As Dr. Sultanoff states, emotional intelligence can be developed, but it takes ongoing effort and practice like learning any performance-based activity, such as playing a musical instrument, playing a sport or becoming a professional (i.e. a doctor, nurse, therapist, etc.).



Emotional intelligence is most effective when it becomes part of the fabric of ones life, he reflects. That means it is integrated into ones being and is not turned on or off. It simply is part of ones being.

Next up, learn more about the habits of emotionally intelligent people.

Sources
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.
Cemetery baby name inspo may be a new trend, based on this moms viral video

Most parents look in a baby book or online when choosing a baby name. Others find inspiration in favorite films, music, and movies. But for us more macabre parents, we head to the cemetery. At least thats what TikTok mom and physical therapist Haley Hodgewho is pregnant with her fourth childposted about on her account. And of course, the video went viral.

In the video, Hodge goes on the hunt for a perfect girl name by exploring the Smithville Burying Ground in Southport, North Carolina, a graveyard that dates all the way back to 1792.

In an interview with TODAY, Hodge told the publication that you can learn so much about cultural aspects of the past just by reading the tombstones, and exploring them was a normal part of her childhood.

I know some people might find it creepy, but my mother was a history buff and when we were growing up, she would take us on field trips to cemeteries, she said. Even Hodges sister Cooper received her name from a tombstone, she noted in the article.

Believe it or not, many folks in the comment section did not find it particularly creepy. In fact, one fan said she was a gravestone baby because her mom loved to go epitaphing. She also noted that she enjoys telling people where her name came from and to see their shocked faces when they find out its from a gravestone.

However, there were quite a few who believed in some superstitions surrounding visiting a graveyard while pregnant.

Ive heard that pregnancies attract ghosts. I feel like this is like picking up a ghost at the rescue shelter, one person said.

Another person shared that it was a dangerous game Hodge was playing, and that the commenter would never go into a cemetery pregnant herself.

On a positive note from someone who believes in superstitions and spirit, one commenter praised Hodge and said, How beautiful must it be for some of these souls to hear their name spoken again after so many years. I hope you have an incredible pregnancy and a healthy baby.

So what are the names Hodge is now considering after her excursion? It looks like Vienna, Ella, Bunny, James, Julian, Winnie, and Olympus are contenders.

Perhaps Gravestone Baby will be the new buzzword when our children grow up. At the very least, how they got their name will make for a pretty great story for their friends.

A version of this story was published in May 2024. It has been updated.
(KRON)  The inaugural Sudan Culture Fest has been announced for Saturday in Hayward, according to the Sudanese Association For Northern California (SANC).

Sudan is a country in Northeast Africa with more than 500 ethnicities and languages. Based on World Population Review, which cites United Nations and US Census data, more than 4,000 Sudanese people call California home. The city of Hayward is the home to the SANC.

According to the organization, Sudan Cultural Fest participants will be able to experience Sudan. The organization said there will be live music, including a performance from Sundanese artist Salma El Assal. The festival will also include poetry and dance performances.

44 million Americans expected to travel for Memorial Day

The fest will have educational tents representing Sudans diverse regions through handicrafts, art, clothing, instruments and history exhibits. SANC also states guests can engage in activities and traditional games.

Festival-goers have the opportunity to watch live cooking demonstrations and eat rich cultural traditional savory and sweet foods and drinks. Z Zoul Cafe, which calls itself the only Sudanese cuisine in the Bay Area, will be at the festival.

On April 15, 2023, a war began in Sudan between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. More than 14,000 people have been killed and 8 million people have been displaced, according to NPR.

The president of the SANC, Harith Elrufaie, spoke with KRON4 about the importance of the festival, Our goal is about sharing whats there in Sudan, sharing whats beyond the war. Sharing the beauty and all the great history.

The festival will be from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 25 on Main Street between B and C streets.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Fish for free 1 weekend in June anywhere in WA. Heres what you need to know

Fishing will be free in Washington state  no license required for most types of fish  for one weekend in June.

Washington state Fish and Wildlife has two days of free fishing each year on the first weekend after the first Monday in June to help introduce people to fishing. This year the weekend is June 8-9.

You also wont need to pay for parking at Washington state parks, state fish and wildlife areas and state Department of Natural Resources land those two days. No Discover Pass will be required whether you are there to fish or just enjoy the outdoors.

For the second year in a row, any fish that requires a catch card will require a fishing license. That includes, salmon, steelhead, sturgeon and halibut.

In addition, all shellfish will require a license to harvest. That may be a tough one as the extreme low tides on free fishing weekend are expected to attract many people seeking shellfish.

The free fishing weekend had become so popular for those species of fish and for shellfish that the wildlife officials were concerned about unreported or unlawful retention and the large amount harvested.

Free Fishing Weekend in Washington state for 2024 is June 8-9. Shown is a fishing spot just upstream of the closed bridge on the Walla Walla River.

As part of free fishing weekend, no two-pole endorsements are required. The endorsements allow anglers to use two fishing rods on most freshwater lakes, ponds, some sections of rivers and a few marine areas.

However, other fishing regulations apply, including size limits, bag limits and some fishing area closures.

To easily check regulations an updated Fish Washington app is available on Google Play, the Apple App Store, and the Fish and Wildlife website. Printed Fish Washington booklets also are available where licenses are sold.

Win prizes with tagged fish

To not only fish for free, but possibly win a prize, go to one of the lakes tagged with stocked fish for the 2024 Trout Fishing Derby.

Many prizes have yet to be claimed, says the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Stocked lakes near the Tri-Cities include Dalton Lake in Franklin County about five miles upstream off the Snake River from Ice Harbor Dam. Take the Pasco Kahlotus Highway to West Herman Road.

Hood Park ponds also are stocked near Burbank on the Snake River. The ponds have two new piers accessible to those with disabilities. They were installed this month by 19 union volunteers through the Union Sportsmens Alliance.

Fish for free for most species on Washington states free fishing weekend. It is June 8-9 in 2024.

If you are fishing on the west side of the state, American Lake, Lake Bradley, Silver Lake and Tanwax Lake in Pierce County are stocked with derby fish.

In Thurston County, Clear, Deep, Offutt, Pattison, Summit and Ward lakes are stocked. In Whatcom County, Lake Padden is stocked.

Go to wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/contests/trout-derby/lakes for a full list of derby lakes in Washington.

Also popular on the west side of the state during free fishing weekend are lincod, cabezon and rockfish angling from jetties on the Washington coast and shad on the lower Columbia River.

Oregon free fishing, camping

If you want to check out fishing in Oregon, everyone, nonresidents included, can fish, clam and crab for free in Oregon on the first weekend of June, June 1-2.

No fishing or shellfish licenses or tags are required, including the combined angling tag, a Columbia River Basin endorsement or a two-rod validation.

Oregon State Parks also offers free parking and camping on Saturday, June 1.
GREENBELT, Md. (DC News Now)  The Greenbelt Police Department (GPD) invited the community to join in for its first Wellness Walk in June.

GPD said that the walk is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. on June 1 at Buddy Attick Park in Greenbelt.

The event celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month, which falls in May  the walk was originally scheduled for May 18 but was rescheduled due to the weather.

Montgomery College students, nonprofit create community food forest to fight food insecurity

The department said that the walk will help raise awareness on the topic and provide support for community members.

GPD said that walkers and runners should start arriving by 8:30 a.m. Any vendors should arrive by 8 a.m.

You can find more information in GPDs post.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Here's our list of Memorial Day events in the Holland area

HOLLAND  Memorial Day has finally arrived. It's a time for reflection and gratitude, and also a much-needed long weekend to relax and spend time with family.

In addition to the upcoming openings of Ottawa Beach General Store and Reservoir near Holland State Park, there are events happening near Holland this weekend, including:

Zeeland's Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 29, 2023.

Allegan Antiques Show: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday at Allegan Antiques Market, 150 Allegan St. Come for a large variety of antiques including glass, pottery, china, vintage jewelry and more.

Simply In Time Memorial Day Party: 7-11 p.m. Sunday at Wicks Park Bar and Grille, 449 Water St. in Saugatuck. Live music, drinks and food all in one place.

Saugatuck/Douglas Memorial Day Parade: 9 a.m. Monday, starting in front of the American Legion Hall Post 137 at 248 Mason St. There will be a ceremony at the Veterans Monument before the parade heads to Douglas on Center Street.

Zeeland Memorial Day Parade: 9 a.m. Monday on Central Avenue between Maple Avenue and State Street. There will be a Memorial Day Cemetery Ceremony following at Zeeland Cemetery at Lincoln and Church Street.

Holland Memorial Day Parade: 9:30 a.m. Monday, beginning at Eighth Street and Central Avenue. The parade heads down Columbia Avenue and ends at the Pilgrim Home Cemetery, followed by a program of remembrance and music.

Subscribe: Get all your breaking news and unlimited access to our local coverage

Holland Cares Benefit Concert: 7-9:30 p.m. on Monday at the Holland High School Performing Arts Center, 600 Van Raalte Ave. All proceeds support local organizations that offer public access to mental health care for youth. Cost is $10 for students and $20 for adults.

 Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Here's our list of Memorial Day events in the Holland area
I'm 89 and flew 5,000 miles to see Taylor Swift in Paris. I treated myself to a $2K per night hotel and it was worth every penny.

I'm 89 and flew 5,000 miles to see Taylor Swift in Paris. I treated myself to a $2K per night hotel and it was worth every penny.

Nancy Strong, 89, has been a Taylor Swift fan for almost 15 years.

She traveled from Dallas to Paris to see the Eras show after buying a ticket for 190 ($205.)

The great-grandmother said the concert was one of the most exciting nights of her life.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Nancy Strong. It has been edited for length and clarity.

My granddaughter, Jennifer, and I were visiting my brother in New York when tickets for the second leg of Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour were released in Europe last fall.

It was the middle of the night because of the time difference. But we hit the internet the second they became available. "We've got to make this happen," Jennifer said as we joined the virtual ticket line.

I stayed up for as long as possible before giving up and going to bed. Then, around 3 a.m., Jennifer burst into my room, threw on the lights, and yelled, "Grammy, Grammy  I got the tickets!"

Of course, I jumped out of bed screaming like crazy. It was stupid fun. We jumped up and down. We were going to Paris to see Taylor on May 9, 2024.

I've been a Swiftie since September 2009, when I watched the MTV Music Video Awards show at my home in Dallas.

Unfortunately, it was the infamous night that Kanye West jumped onstage, grabbed the microphone, and interrupted her acceptance speech.

At first, I was confused, thinking it was some kind of stunt. Then I realized it wasn't. "How could he do that to that young, vulnerable, sweet girl? " I thought.

I felt a connection to Taylor Swift

My last name is Strong, and I live up to it. I don't like to see people bullied, and I admired how Taylor handled the situation.

The incident triggered my interest. I discovered she'd been born and raised in Reading, Pennsylvania. My husband, Asa, 93, and I lived in Reading during the 1960s  when our five sons were born  so I was very attached to the town.

It was a connection. The more I read about Taylor, the more I liked her. I was impressed that her parents were involved in her career, and she was all about family.

I've been blessed with 12 grandchildren, six of them girls. They told me how much they felt inspired by Taylor and related to her as a successful young woman.

Strong enjoyed every moment of the Taylor Swift concert in Paris. Courtesy of Jennifer Strong

We listened to her music together. We loved how she wrote about her own life in her music. She was relatable because she sang about loneliness, break-ups, and pure happiness. People understood her because her life experiences reflected theirs.

When Jennifer asked if I wanted to see Taylor with her in Paris, it was a no-brainer. I've run a travel agency for nearly 50 years and have flown worldwide. The only places I haven't been are The Arctic, Antarctica, and a few countries in South America. I'll be 90 in August but I can't slow down.

I'm in love with Europe. After we purchased the Taylor tickets for 190 ($205) each, we booked a week-long vacation in Amsterdam and Paris. We paid for our business class flights with points, but splurged $2K per night on a five star hotel in each city. Five of us went to the concert, including Jennifer, 32, another granddaughter, Brianne Pattison, 36, and my daughter-in-law, Kay Strong, 66.

I was dancing so much, I thought I might tumble over

It was one of the most exciting nights of my life. Taylor has a great work ethic. She came on at 8 p.m. and left at 11 p.m., entertaining us the whole time. How she changed those costumes and showed up in those high boots is beyond me.

My favorite song is "The Man," followed by "Shake It Off." I went crazy when they came up. I was up on my feet so much, I was worried I was going to tumble over the seats. The atmosphere was amazing. I loved watching the audience scream their heads off.

As for my outfit, I wore a sparkly top over some pants that I bought from Anthropologie. The top covered up a multiple of sins for an 89-year-old lady. I felt great.

A few days after the show, someone posted an Instagram video of me dancing. You can't see my face, but the clip went viral. I'm happy that the younger generation knows there are older people like me who love to have fun in their life.

Do you have a powerful story about a senior that you'd like to share with Business Insider? Please send details to jridley@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Light Within: All of creation is important to God

Everyone is important to God. And, that includes the little hummingbird. It leaves its home in Michigan for the winter on a 2,000-mile flight (and much of it over water) to Central America, then returns to the same backyard in Michigan the next summer. What wonderful care and guidance from God!

Christ Jesus revealed many times Gods love for everyone, one of which was the parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan was the only one  among other travelers  who stopped, rescued and cared for a badly injured traveler (see Luke10:30-36).

I can recall many incidents in which my friends  and others reported in the media  who were expressions of Gods love for humans, animals and birds.

Christ Jesus further explains Gods care for everyone with the parable of the lost sheep. He spoke to the skeptical gathering: What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?

And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. (Luke 15:4-6).

I believe this lesson is an example for us today to help others in need of someone in their lives.

Can we reach out to that lonely person or to that lost sheep so important to God?

Don Kleinsmith is a member of the Christian Science church in Adrian. He can be reached at kleinsmith968@gmail.com or 517-263-6357.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Don Kleinsmith: All of creation is important to God
Local woman researches her father's military service; says it made her appreciate him more

COSHOCTON  Maryjane Mitchell said her father never spoke about his service during World War II. However, curiosity and an interest in genealogy has led her to piece together some of it, although questions remain.

Mitchell recently purchased a veterans banner to honor her dad, William Carl Dobson, who most people knew as Jake. It will be displayed on a post in Warsaw this Memorial Day weekend along with about 40 others, with more across Coshocton County. The family is from the unincorporated village of West Bedford, outside of Warsaw. Mitchell cried when she saw the banner.

Maryjane Mitchell with a banner honoring her father, William "Jake" Dobson, that will be hung this Memorial Day weekend in Warsaw along with 40 others to honor late veterans.

"Military people don't get the appreciation nowadays they should. I always think back to Dad and he fought at Normandy. He fought for my freedom, for everybody's freedom and didn't think twice about doing it,'" she said.

Mitchell, 73, said they lost her father's uniform and medals in a house fire when she was 5. However, she still has some photos, including Dobson with his regiment and with his brother, who also served. Dobson died in 2002.

The family has a long military history as Mitchell's great-great-great-grandfather, Peter Dillon Sr., served in the Revolutionary War and great-grandfather Thomas Dobson was in the Civil War. Her brother was also in Vietnam and and a nephew was in the U.S. Navy.

"When I was a kid, I didn't think about it. Then I started having kids of my own and I was busy with them and didn't think anything about the military and what they went through," Mitchell said on her current family history interest.

Photos of William Dobson, known as Jake, during his military service in World War II, including with his U.S. Army regiment. Dobson served in the 479th Amphibious Truck Company and was part of the invasion of Normandy.

Mitchell is a member of the Coshocton Genealogy Society and used resources at the Coshocton County District Library for genealogy research to uncover the family history. This includes an article from the July 8, 1985, edition of the Coshocton Tribune detailing a reunion of the 479th Amphibious Truck Company her parents hosted at their home on County Road 3.

Dobson had the rank of technician fifth grade in the U.S. Army and was a driver for the DUKW, commonly known as a duck, an amphibious truck used to transport equipment and men from boats to shore. The 479th was part of the invasion of Normandy. They carried weapons, ammunitions and supplies and would take wounded back to the boats.

A military banner honoring William "Jake" Dobson who served in the U.S. Army during World War II. There are 40 such banners hanging this Memorial Day weekend on posts in Warsaw along with others across Coshocton County.

Mitchell said she's unsure if her father transported people or supplies during Normandy or if he engaged in any fighting.

"World War II was not a pretty sight. Dad never talked about it. He would never talk to (his children) about it. After I've done some research and seen some research, now I now why," she said. "My grandson was the first great-grandchild for my mom and dad. Dad loved Eric and Eric loved Dad, because I was raising him. Eric, when he got older, said 'Grandpa tell me about World War II,' because he was interested in that. My dad said, 'Honey, you don't want to know.' That's all I ever heard my dad say."

Mitchell wants to leave the information and photos she's collected to her grandson and hopes he'll keep the legacy alive. Through her work with the genealogy society, Mitchell has helped others uncover their ancestry as well. She's been doing family research for about 15 years.

"I have to find out things. I really wanted to know and I want to tell my grandson, who was so interested in Dad, I want him to know," Mitchell said of what's driving her work. "It made me appreciate my dad more to do this research."

Leonard Hayhurst is a community content coordinator and general news reporter for the Coshocton Tribune with more than 15 years of local journalism experience and multiple awards from the Ohio Associated Press. He can be reached at 740-295-3417 or llhayhur@coshoctontribune.com. Follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @llhayhurst.

This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: Daughter is trying to piece together her father's military service
Heydar Aliyev International Airport strives to provide accessibility for passengers by offering a variety of travel destinations and airlines. With the onset of the holiday season, about 30 countries and about 80 destinations - from tourist resorts to business capitals - will become even more accessible to passengers.

During the summer months, Turkiye's cities remain some of the most popular destinations. From June, the frequency of flights to Antalya, Izmir, Trabzon and Dalaman will increase. Flights on these routes will be operated by AZAL, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines and Ajet.

For Gulf resort lovers, there are over 80 scheduled weekly flights to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The flights will be operated by the national carrier, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, Air Arabia, Flydubai, Gulf Air, Kuwait Airlines and Jazeera Airlines. You can also travel from Baku Airport to Sharm el-Sheikh 3 times a week using AZAL and Air Cairo airlines.

The cities of Frankfurt, Tivat, Astana, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Ufa, Tyumen, Surgut, and Sochi are also on the list of destinations where the frequency of flights will increase.

In addition, regular flights from Baku to new destinations will begin in June - Batumi, Bishkek, Bucharest, Sofia, Bodrum, Dalaman and Muscat, which will provide passengers with more travel opportunities.

For detailed information on flight schedules, please visit the official website of the respective airlines.
JOPLIN, Mo.  The Missouri Black-Eyed Susan, the Little Bluestem, and, of course, the Butterfly Milkweedthese are all native plants Missouri conservationists are urging you to put in your landscaping.

So much so, that theyll all be available at the bi-annual Shoal Creek Conservation Center Native Plant Sale this weekend. The plethora of plants available are already adapted to our climate and soil. They require little to no irrigation and rarely need fertilizer or pesticides. Theyre also perfect food or habitat resources for the parts of nature that need them the most.

So, not only are they beautiful and relatively low maintenance because theyre perfectly adapted for the habitat theyre in, because they are native. So, theyre really nice for the landscape, but theyre also an awesome resource for our pollinators and our wildlife, said Kensi Tillman, Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center Naturalist.

The Native Plant Sale is this Saturday at the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin. It will be held from 10 to 2. If youre unable to attend, the next Native Plant Sale will be held sometime in the fall.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
'Obsessed with the one': Lakeland church's new name reflects vision, desire to grow

Pastor Kevin Jack stands next to the baptism wall at Church For The One in Lakeland. Formerly known as Highland Park Church of the Nazarene, the church plans to begin holding services in the fall at Sleepy Hill Elementary in North Lakeland.

LAKELAND  Sarah Rodgers, a church employee since 2011, recalled greeting a woman who showed up at what was then called Highland Park Church, asking for an employee with whom she had been communicating.

Not recognizing the name, Rodgers eventually realized that the visitor had been talking to an employee of a Highland Park Church in another state, not the one in Lakeland.

The story illustrates one of various reasons that church leaders decided on a name change for one of Lakelands most prominent congregations. In February, Highland Park Church became Church for the One.

The 71-year-old church, a fixture in South Lakeland, plans to open a second location soon on the north side of town. Lead Pastor Kevin Jack said it would have been geographically confusing to use the Highland Park name for the new site.

It will not be the first name change for the church, founded in 1953 as Florida Heights Nazarene Church at a location off South Florida Avenue. After moving to its current site on Lakeland Highlands Road, the congregation adopted the name Highland Park Church of the Nazarene in 1987, later shortened to Highland Park Church.

While the prepositional object in the new name, Church for the One, might seem an obvious reference to God, Jack said the name reflects the congregations philosophy. Jack, an Ohio native, came to the church two years ago, having been a guest preacher there for a few years.

After Jack joined the church in 2022, he launched a six-month vision process to clarify the congregations values, resulting in a four-paragraph vision statement. The declaration describes the church as obsessed with the one, meaning it seeks to reach those who are doubting, done with religion, and disengaged from faith.

So then, the thing that came out of that was, honestly, we say we're a church that's about the one, Jack said. And we are proud of the fact that we are a church  like, we love it. And so from that, putting church first, where it's usually last in the name, came Church for the One.

Jack said church leaders also wanted a name that would be unique for Google searches, in contrast to Highland Park.

Plans for North Lakeland

Church for the One, which occupies about 31 acres straddling Lakeland Highlands Road, is certainly not the first long-established church in Lakeland to rebrand itself. The Lakes Church, one of the largest congregations in Polk County, discarded its decades-old name, First Baptist Church at the Mall, in 2019.

Church for the One remains part of the Church of the Nazarene, a Protestant evangelical denomination headquartered in Kansas. The denomination, which emerged from Methodism in the late 1800s, has more than 30,000 congregations across the globe.

The church plans to begin holding Sunday services in the fall at Sleepy Hill Elementary School, and 130 people have committed to attending that site, Jack said. Church leaders plan eventually to purchase a site for a permanent building in North Lakeland.

That is only the beginning of the churchs aspirations of growth.

We do plan on expanding into other locations, locally and nationally, Jack said. Some of that information is kind of more under the radar for our congregation, but just to say, we have plans in place already in other states and other venues.

'We're here to stay': Lakeland's Grace City Church will build new campus on 50-acre site

The name change followed a redefinition of the church, as distilled in the vision statement.

Our language was, we wanted a vision that would compel and repel  that some people would say, That's absolutely what I want to give my life to, Jack said. And as part of that, the other option is other people would go, Nope, no interest. And so that happened as part of it. The exciting thing is the response to the name has been overwhelmingly positive within the congregation itself because it is true to our identity and everyone understands that.

Jack acknowledges that some congregants departed in response to the new vision, but he said overall attendance has risen dramatically. Sunday services drew about 1,100 people two years ago and now attract about 2,400, he said, with another 950 following online.

Lead Pastor Kevin Jack stands in the sanctuary at Church For The One in Lakeland. Part of the Church of the Nazarene denomination, the church recently changed its name.

Broad-shouldered and muscular, Jack wore a black T-shirt over matching pants on a recent morning at the church office. He said congregants are welcome to dress casually, and services feature a praise band employing electric instruments to serve up energetic, modern songs.

But Jack said his church follows the example of Jesus in embracing a muscular and demanding form of faith. The vision statement includes the sentence, We are not a cruise ship, but a battleship.

A lot of churches that try to create an environment for people who don't know God, they do really short services, he said. That's not us. Our services are about 85 minutes long. Most sermons are 45 minutes long. So we're not light on scripture.

Aiming for diversity

Church for the One holds three Sunday services  9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.  with the same formats and content. That contrasts with some churches that hold traditional and contemporary services, with differing music and worship elements.

Rodgers said that services have become more diverse, especially with regard to age, since Jack arrived.

I'm watching a lot more of the older congregants become more willing to change their  many of them, not all, but many are embracing the idea that we can create a shared worship space where we could have a 19-year-old worshiping side by side with a 70-year-old, she said. They're worshiping the same God. They're singing the same praises.

The involvement of younger congregants was apparent on a recent morning as a group of college-aged volunteers, some wearing T-shirts and caps, gathered at a table in one room of the church offices.

Everything that I've seen Kevin do as our leader and as a boss, he is respectfully known for showing all his cards as he's making a decision, Rodgers said. He doesn't do it in isolation. He does a really good job at bringing a variety of voices into rooms where decisions are made.

Rodgers, who headed the childrens ministry for years and now supervises systems and operations, noted that her 19-year-old daughter recently participated in a meeting to which she was not even invited.

A small sign posted on the wall of a conference room bore the message, Obsessed with the 3571, with the final digit circled. Jack explained that Polk County contains 357,100 people who claim no religious affiliation, and his church has set a goal of baptizing 1% of them  or 3,571  by the year 2030.

Baptisms have become the rule during services at Church for the One, and those going into the water range from young children to seniors.

We started doing baptisms every single week, and now we've seen 65 straight weeks of someone getting baptized, every single Sunday, Jack said. So this has been a really cool thing that's happened within the community as part of that.

He added: I don't know of that happening anywhere, where people are baptizing every Sunday.

Gary White can be reached at gary.white@theledger.com or 863-802-7518. Follow on Twitter @garywhite13.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: With new name, Lakeland church aims to reach 'those who are doubting'
Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation's new campaign extends visitors an invitation: Find Yourself in Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation officially launched a new campaign, Find Yourself in Oklahoma, featuring the work of a local animation studio to promote our state to residents and visitors alike. By partnering with Oklahoma-based creators, were sharing the states story in an authentic and unique way and investing in the growth of our creative community.

At the heart of this campaign lies our commitment to showcase Oklahoma's diverse landscapes, vibrant culture and rich storytelling traditions. Through the medium of stop-motion animation, crafted by the talented team at Loud Cloud, an Oklahoma City-based studio, we invite visitors to experience Oklahoma like never before.

Through the eyes of Bigfoot, the campaign showcases the enchanting and whimsical side of Oklahoma. From the dunes of Little Sahara State Park to the bustling energy of downtown Oklahoma City, each frame of the animated series is infused with our state's identity. The project features seven diverse locations, all of which were crafted by hand.

More: Looking for an adventure to kick off your summer? Explore Oklahoma's state parks

This project is about more than showcasing our beautiful state. Its about partnering with our local creative community and Oklahoma artists to support economic activity throughout the state. By working with Oklahoma artists, like the owner of Loud Cloud, Mason Drumm, whose passion for our state can be seen in every frame, we are telling our story authentically while supporting local talent and fostering growth in our creative industries.

The success of our previous campaigns speaks volumes about the power of tourism as an economic driver in Oklahoma. With an return on investment of 60 to 1, our investment in promoting the state has led to significant growth in tourism, which is the states third-largest industry.

This screenshot shows animation from the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation's Find Yourself in Oklahoma campaign.

Last years Oklahoma state parks booking campaign resulted in a 30% increase in our booking numbers, driving visitation and economic impact in rural communities. We hope to build on this success and momentum with this years efforts and are eager to see how visitors will respond to our invitation: Find Yourself in Oklahoma. Whether it's exploring our state parks, savoring the flavors of our local cuisine, or uncovering the mysteries of Bigfoot in the Kiamichi Mountains, there is something for everyone to discover in Oklahoma.

Im immensely proud of the dedication and hard work that went into bringing this project to life. From the craftsmanship of our stop-motion sets to the collaboration with renowned puppet fabricator Tennessee Reid Norton and his team, every detail of this campaign reflects the talent of our Oklahoma community.

I invite you to join us on this journey of exploration and discovery. Whether you're a lifelong Oklahoman or a first-time visitor, I hope that the Find Yourself in Oklahoma campaign inspires you to see our state in a new light and to experience the magic that exists here.

To watch the full video and learn more about the campaign, go to FindYourselfInOK.com. Together, let's celebrate the beauty of Oklahoma and continue to show the world why our state belongs on the big stage.

Shelley Zumwalt is the executive director for the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.

Shelley Zumwalt is the executive director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Campaign invites visitors to Find Yourself in Oklahoma | TravelOK
The Pflugerville Public Library Summer Programming encourages everyone to read, make and explore. We have a full summer of events and reading challenges for the entire family.

Our popular summer reading challenges are back. The library uses Beanstack, an online reading tracker, for all our reading challenges. Beanstack allows you to track the books or minutes you read over the summer, log activitie, and more. The librarys Beanstack site is live! This years Summer Reading Challenges will be available June 1. When you log in for the first time, you will need to create an account to participate.

Carmen Lazo

Adult Summer Reading Challenge for those 18 and older. Adults who complete it will receive a branded insulated picnic bag while supplies last. For more information about this challenge, visit the adult reading challenge page on our website.

All Ages Team Reading Challenge for kids, teens and adults. The entire family is invited to compete in our friendly team-based reading challenge. You will choose your own team (blue, red, green or yellow) when you register. The whole family can pick one color, or they can pick different colors to compete against each other. The winning team will be announced during our Pay-It-Forward event at the end of the summer.

And there will be plenty of other programs for all ages over the summer.

Summer Kick Off - Maker Pfest

June 1 from 2-5 p.m.: Join local makers and artists for demos and hands-on activities. Take a tour of the Pfab Lab, enjoy crafts, and get more info on the Summer Reading Program. Guests include Pflugerville Quilt Guild, Austin Book Arts Center, Math Happens, and Texas LUG Lego group.

Maker Market

For the first time, the library will have a maker market on Sunday, June 2, from 2-4:30 p.m., when you can shop local artisans and makers who created items using equipment available in the Pfab Lab. Vendors will set their own prices and handle transactions for their items.

Our calendar is full of events that provide opportunities for informal learning and activities to continue academic and emotional growth or simply to have fun and socialize. Most summer events require registration. Please visit our online calendar for full details.

Trans clothing swap and social

Kick off Pride month at our clothing swap on Saturday, June 8. Bring new or clean, gently used clothes to swap. Socialize while selecting new-to-you items. All gender diverse/expansive folks are welcome to take advantage of this regardless of your transition status or goals. Wear your new finery to a Pride Celebration!

Baby Time, Storytime & Pajama Storytime

Kids can join us for baby time (3  18 months old) and/or storytime (3 months  5 years old) and pajama storytime (3 months  8 years old). Storytimes and baby times are 30-minute programs with books, songs and fun. The formats vary to make them suitable for the age group they are meant for. All three programs introduce elements of literacy, build language and social skills and feature elements of other languages including Spanish, French and ASL. All children must have an adult with them to participate.

Kids & Tweens

Kids Club for children ages 5 to 8 with an adult meets on Tuesdays. Tween Time for ages 8 to 12 is on Wednesdays and Book Clubs for tweens happen on scheduled Mondays. Events for these ages will include crafting, building, cake decorating and more.

Teens

Teens between the ages of 12-18 can enjoy our regular Tuesday evening programs as well as some special events such as the After-Hours Cheezy Movie Night, U Get What U Get Book Bag Giveaways and Summer Hygge Night. They also can register to try our new Teen Spice of the Month Club that will meet virtually to try a new spice and talk about how we used it in our cooking.

Family Night on Monday evenings and Family Hour on Thursday afternoon will provide opportunities for families with children up to age 12 to make crafts, complete sewn projects, enjoy amazing performances by local artists and special guests, and more.

Adult & senior events

Our adult summer programs are focused on creativity, learning and relaxation, so there is something for everyone. This year, join us for crafty activities, animal visits, guest speakers and artists, writing classes, movie screenings and Pfab Lab events. Well also host a book swap and our popular Book Buzz program, where we preview new fiction, nonfiction and graphic novels for adults.

Pay-It-Forward Pflugerville

Spread kindness throughout Pflugerville and beyond as we wrap up our Summer Reading Program from 2-4 p.m. on July 27. Stop by this come-and-go event to learn about local volunteer opportunities and work on a quick charitable craft, like making a card for a senior center or decorating a kindness rock to leave at a park. The library will be decorated with the winning color from the All-Ages Summer Reading Challenge.

The historic Heritage House Museum is open every Tuesday and the first Sunday of the month for the public to tour and explore. Exhibits, such as time period clothing and antique furniture, show what it was like to live in the home in the early years of our community.

Our calendar is full of events that provide opportunities for informal learning and activities to continue reading and have fun during the summer months. All events are posted through July. We hope you take a look at it and join us this summer!

Carmen Lazo is a youth services staff member at the Pflugerville Public Library.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Pflugerville librarian: Reading challenges highlight summer programs
A place to heal: Glamping spot opening in the woods near Fennville

GANGES TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  A new campground opening near Fennville offers a glamping experience in the woods.

The Woods Luxury Camping is officially opening at 6708 118th Ave. near 66th Street in Ganges Township on May 30. Residents can get a sneak peek and smores on Sunday during an open house that will take place from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Owner Jacqueline Petro, who previously owned the 205 Coffee Bar in downtown Holland, was inspired to create the campground because she wanted to create a space where she could get away with her dog, Lovey, a Pitbull rescue.

Shes part of part of my story. Shes one that I would think about when I was working, and, How quickly can I get home to her? And then take her into the trails, into the woods, Petro said. Then the thought was, How do I create a business where I can take my dog with me in the trails, in the woods and create that space for other people?'

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

Lake Michigan Summer Beach Guide

Petro is originally from the Netherlands and moved to Michigan as a kid. From there, she lived in a few different areas in the state and the Philadelphia area.

When her son was 3, she said she Googled the best place to raise a family and found Holland.

Its been really great. I love the area, she said.

She added that she loves how close The Woods Luxury Camping is to the beach, with five public areas with beach access within a mile and a half away from the 45-acre property. Theres also five vineyards within three miles, Saugatuck is just a few minutes away and Holland is about 15 minutes away, she said.

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The campground has three different types of cabins, ranging from $185 to $375 a night. There are A-frames, hideaway huts and glass houses. All are at least 50 feet away from the others, and each is decorated differently.

A community area offers two big fire pit areas, with a cooking spot and a canteen that will offer coffee and pastries from DeBoer bakery in the morning, pie, cookies and beverages in the afternoon, and smores in the evening.

There are rabbits and chickens on site, so there are fresh eggs in the morning. There are also games like corn hole.

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

Dogs are welcome, and so far about half the reservations are taking their dog, Petro said.

Petro envisions the space serving as a sanctuary. She said its peaceful in the morning with the birds singing, and it becomes a magical fairyland in the evening with lots of lights along the trails.

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

The Woods Luxury Camping in Ganges Township. (May 22, 2024)

Its a place to get away. Its a place to rejuve, a place to recharge your batteries. A place to write, a place to heal if you need to heal a place, to reconnect with your loved one, she said. Or just a place to be by yourself, where you just need nature. You need to get out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You need to get away from the office and your phone. And this is where you can have privacy in the woods and you can have your campfires, you can lay in your hammock, you can lay in the swing chairs.  Its a luxury bedroom in the middle of the woods.

She said it will be a great space for womens retreats or for wedding parties to rent out all 15 campsites.

In the evening they can all gather around the fires and make their smores, she said. Its just a very different experience. So what we really aim for is privacy, relaxation, recharging and feeling like you came from Chicago or Detroit area and you walk in on 45 acres of woods, with beautiful lit paths into a luxury bedroom in the woods.

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Petro said the response from the community has been wonderful, and shes pleased with how many reservations they already have.

I think we have created one of the most beautiful glamping areas, not just in Michigan but in the country, she said. My builders were incredible.  I think were one of the nicest, most secluded glamping areas in the country. So to be able to have the privilege to create that business has been fantastic.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Almost a year ago, in June 2023, Justin Barbour set out to canoe, snowshoe, and trek 3,800km from Hudson Bay in northeastern Canada down to the southernmost point on the island of Newfoundland. He wanted to finish in a year and has mostly stayed on schedule, despite some setbacks and a recent route change.

We last covered Barbour in early January when he exited the canvas tent in northern Quebec to hit the trail again. Hed stayed in place for a few weeks until winter froze the creeks, lakes, and rivers, making travel possible again.

Strapping on his snowshoes and dragging a traditional toboggan, he set off again on January 4. Heading south, he covered 207km over the next 38 days, eventually arriving at the small community of Schefferville.

A map of Barbours route. The star shows his mid-March location. He reached the yellow X last week. Photo: Justin Barbour

Extreme cold and plenty of snow

From Schefferville, he continued across the border into Newfoundland and Labrador. Before he set off, Barbour told us that this manhauling stage might be the toughest section of the entire route.

From his occasional updates, his prediction looks accurate. Barbour reported extreme cold, with temperatures as low as -42C, and some stormy weather.

[Ive been] blasted with several major snow stormsand nearly lost the tent to a suddenwind squall, he wrote in mid-February.

A month later, in mid-March, he took a break from Labradors interior. After 230km in 22 days from Schefferville, I dragged the ol sled out to the Trans-Labrador Highway on Friday, just west of Churchill Falls, Barbour wrote.

There, he reunited with his wife for the first time in four months, ending the second half of his expeditions winter leg.

Justin Barbour and his wife, Heather. Photo: Justin Barbour

After a few days off Barbour was back in his snowshoes and marching south-east. Atikonak Lake it is. Big Land skies! 424km to next goal. Tricky route ahead as wilderness tightens, he wrote in a brief GPS update on March 27. His next check-in, on April 10, suggested things might be getting tricky: Little Mecatina River now. But nature is heating up.

Swapping out the snowshoes

Next came a surprise announcement of a major change of plan. Barbour had doubled back to the highway and traded in his snowshoes and sled for a bicycle.

Been interesting times folks! Just solo bikepacked 1,150km across Trans-Labrador Highwaytheres a longer grind of a story to it. But in brief, spring struck hard, my river roadway for tobogganing burst open, and being too restless to wait a month for lakes to ice out enough for a canoe, I adapted. Pedaling in-between seasons kept momentum going and the expedition close to on schedule, Barbour wrote on Facebook.

Barbour during the unplanned bikepacking leg. Photo: Justin Barbour

Now reunited with his dog Saku, Barbours next stretch will involve backpacking through the woods of Newfoundlands Great Northern Peninsula for 300km. He has roughly 1,000km remaining to his endpoint on Newfoundlands southern coast. He hopes to arrive by July 6.

The post Spring Causes Change of Plans On Quebec-Labrador Journey appeared first on Explorersweb.
Teeth on the beach: Search for megalodon teeth in South Carolina on Memorial Day weekend

Fans of the horror flick "Jaws" may remember 2018's "The Meg," where a prehistoric megalodon attacks a deep sea-submersible, preying on the crew inside.

Although the movie did not receive favorable reviews, it left many viewers to imagine what life on the seaside would have been like should the massive creatures exist today.

Those who are particularly curious are beachgoers who spend their summers mining for megalodon teeth in the sand.

With Memorial Day weekend ahead, now is the time to unearth your teeth on the beach with family and friends. Here's what megalodon teeth look like, and where you can find them.

What is a megalodon?

Otodus megalodons, commonly known as megalodons, are the largest predators to swim the earth's seas. The ancient shark's fossils date back to 20 million years ago, according to the Natural History Museum. Over the next 13 million years, the giant sharks reigned supreme over the ocean until around 3.6 million years ago, when they faced extinction.

Early visual interpretations of the megalodon, which imagined the sea creature as a giant white shark, are now believed to be incorrect. The museum states the megalodon had a short snout, a flat, squashed jaw, and extra-long pectoral fins to support its weight. The powerful predators also had 276 large, serrated teeth, the longest one recorded measuring around 7 inches diagonally. Their jaws, spanning 8.9 feet by 11.2 feet wide, gave the beasts enough room to swallow two adult humans side-by-side.

Four-year-old Jazlynn Torres of Bradenton looks at the mouth of a prehistoric megalodon while touring The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton with her family.

"With its large serrated teeth megalodon would have eaten meat  most likely whales and large fish, and probably other sharks. If you are that big you need to eat a lot of food, so large prey is required," Emma Bernard, curator of fossil fish, told the Natural History Museum.

Sorry "Finding Nemo" fans  these sharks were not fish friendly.

How can I find megalodon teeth on the beach?

The southern U.S. shores are some of the best places to find megalodon teeth, with most of the teeth popping up in North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida. You may come across these shark tooth artifacts in ocean shores, riverbeds, and shallow water areas along the eastern coast. To gather the teeth, you will need a bucket, sifting screen, and shovel. The process may take quite a few attempts  discovering a prehistoric tooth is no easy feat, requiring time and patience. You will also need to keep these safety tips in mind while being in the water.

Here's how you can find megalodon teeth on the beach, according to Sciencing:

 Enter the water with your three items and stay within the shallow areas.

 Use your shovel to scoop sand and sediment. After, pour it into the filtering screen, leaving the screen at water level. Gently shake the sifting screen to rid the contents of sand.

 Repeat the first and second steps until a megalodon tooth is in the sifting screen contents. Place the tooth in your bucket for safekeeping.

Along with minerals, River Walkers Minerals sells items like megalodon teeth and this Roman effigy that is at least 2,000 years old.

Where are the best NC beaches to find shark teeth?

While there is no guarantee that you will find a megalodon tooth on your first try, here are some beaches in N.C. where you are likely to find shark teeth according to Walter Magazine:

 Holden Beach

 Ocean Isle Beach

 Onslow Beach (Please note: This beach is only accessible to current and former military personnel or their family members who have a military ID. This is because the beach is part of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. Those without military access may enter the beach if they are escorted by someone with a military ID, who can help them retrieve a temporary pass at the Camp Lejeune Visitors Center by the Wilson Boulevard Gate).

 Shark's Tooth Island

 Topsail Island

 Wrightsville Beach

Designer Valentina Kova sells diamond and jewel encrusted shark teeth jewelry at her Worth Avenue store in Palm Beach.

Where are the best SC beaches to find shark teeth?

Here are the five best places for shark tooth sleuthing according to Discover South Carolina:

 Cherry Grove Beach

 Edisto Beach

 Folly Beach

 Morris Island

 Myrtle Beach

Kristen Moretti of West Palm Beach crouches amongst thousands of sea shells washed up on the beach at Carlin Park in Jupiter, looking for shark teeth, Monday, October 5, 2020.

Nina Tran covers trending topics. Reach her via email at ntran@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Megalodon teeth, shark teeth: Find them at SC beaches Memorial Day
Traveling for Memorial Day? What to expect on the NY Thruway

Memorial Day weekend is here and New Yorkers are hitting the road. AAA is projecting 43.8 million travelers nationwide will travel 50 miles or more from home between Thursday, May 23 and Monday, May 28  a 4% increase over last year. Around 38.4 million people will travel by car, specifically.

Here's what to expect on the New York State Thruway this holiday weekend.

Gas prices for Memorial Day 2024

Gas prices are expected to be similar to last year when the national average was around $3.57, according to AAA.

Memorial Day 2024: Construction zones and sobriety checkpoints

Temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on state highways are suspended through 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a written statement Friday.

However, some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

Sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols by state police and local and county law enforcement agencies will be present throughout the holiday weekend to combat alcohol and drug-impaired driving and reckless driving. The STOP-DWI enforcement period starts at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24 and runs through 11 p.m. on Monday, May 27.

Cashless tolls: What to know about NYs new rules to protect drivers who pay tolls by mail

NY Thruway tolls have gone up. Here's how much more you'll pay

Memorial Day travel, especially by car, is expected to be high this year, according to AAA.

Thruway tolls increased by 5% in January. Translated into dollars, toll increases for one-way trips from Exit 46 (Interstate 290) in Rochester, according to the New York State Thruway Authority, are as follows for E-ZPass users:

To Exit 50 in Buffalo : $2.72 , up from $2.59

To Exit 36 in Syracuse : $3.73 , up from $3.55

To Exit 24 in Albany: $10.06, up from $9.59

And for Tolls by Mail users:

To Exit 50 in Buffalo : $4.75 , up from $3.37

To Exit 36 in Syracuse : $6.53 , up from $4.62

To Exit 24 in Albany: $17.21, up from $12.47

Thruway rest areas: Four New York State Thruway rest areas have reopened this year. These are still closed

NY Thruway rest areas: Which ones are closed?

Rest stops along the Thruway have sporadically been shut down for months at a time while upgrades like new restaurants, outdoor seating, playground and pet walking areas were built over the course of a $450 million project.

Here's a list of Thruway service areas that are currently closed:

Sloatsburg: Located between Exit 15A - Sloatsburg/Suffern/state Routes 17N and 59 and Exit 16 - Harriman/U.S. Route 5/state Route 17

Malden: Located between Exit 20 - Saugerties/Woodstock/state Route 32 and Exit 21 - Catskill/Cairo/state Route 23

Pattersonville: Located between Exit 26 - Schenectady/Scotia/Interstate 890/state Routes 5 and 5S and Exit 27 - Amsterdam/state Route 30

Ontario: Located between Exit 46 - Rochester/Corning/Interstate 390 and Exit 47 - Rochester/LeRoy/Interstate 490/state Route 19

Angola (both directions): Located between Exit 57A - Eden/Angola and Exit 58 - Silver Creek/Irving/state Routes 5, 20 and 438

Scottsville: Located between Exit 47 - Rochester/LeRoy/Interstate 490/state Route 19 and Exit 46 - Rochester/Corning/Interstate 390

DeWitt: Located between Exit 36 - Watertown/Binghamton/Interstate 81 and Exit 35 - Syracuse/East Syracuse/state Route 298

Mohawk: Located between Exit 27 - Amsterdam/state Route 30 and Exit 26 - Schenectady/Scotia/Interstate 890/state Routes 5 and 5S

Ulster: Located between Exit 20 - Saugerties/Woodstock/state Route 32 and Exit 19 - Kingston/state Route 28 - Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge

Ramapo: Located between Exit 16 - Harriman/U.S. Route 6/state Route 17 and Exit 15A - Sloatsburg/Suffern/state Routes 17 North and 59

The Modena rest stop  located between Exit 19 - New Paltz/Poughkeepsie/state Route 299 and Exit 17 - Newburgh/Scranton/Interstate 84/state Routes 17K and 300  is open but the only food option currently available is the Applegreen convenience store.

Fuel services remain open at every rest area.

Emily Barnes is the New York State Team consumer advocate reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Contact Barnes at ebarnes@gannett.com or on Twitter @byemilybarnes.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY Thruway: Construction zones, rest stops and tolls. What to know
Check your supply.

Getty Images/SimpleImages/Allrecipes

On March 4, Natural Waters of Viti Limited (NWVL) recalled 78,533 cases, or almost 1.9 million bottles, of Fiji Water. The voluntary recall is due to testing that found manganese and three bacteria that could be harmful to consumers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the recall on May 23.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that certain levels of manganese are important for staying healthy, but the amount depends on age and sex. Further, the NIH says, "Studies have not shown any harm from the manganese in food and beverages, but some people have developed manganese toxicity by consuming water containing very high levels." Specifics on the other three bacteria found are not available at this time.



List of Recalled Fiji Water Bottles

Fiji

According to a company post, the bottles were distributed in Washington state and sold online to customers nationwide via Amazon. The FDA and the company have not provided any other details to the public. However, Fiji Water stated that its water remains safe to buy and consume on the whole and that the recall only affects specific lots:

Fiji Natural Artesian Water 500 mL (24-pack)

Case UPC Code: 6 32565 00004 3

Bottle UPC Code: 6 32565 00001 2

Dates: Nov. 11, 2023, Nov. 12, 2023, Nov. 13, 2023, Nov. 24, 2023, Nov. 25, 2023

These were sold through retailers and on Amazon.com between Feb. 1, 2024, and March 3, 2024.

If you have the affected water, do not drink it and return it if possible. The return policy for Fiji Water can be found on the company's site.

Read the original article on All Recipes.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24.Representatives of the diplomatic corps - ambassadors, military attaches and also representatives of international organizations accredited in Azerbaijan have concluded their visit to Azerbaijan's Lachin city within the framework of Lachin Climate Action Dialogue, Trend reports.

In the city, the officials visited Zerti Agro-Industrial Park, where they were informed about animals in the park, container-type farms for the production of feed, as well as for growing herbs and tomatoes.

The visitors were also informed about provision of all enterprises operating there with the cutting-edge technologies.

The information was further given that, in addition to obtaining jobs, Lachin residents also acquire professional skills by learning from foreign specialists, due to which, each enterprise operating in the Agro-Industrial Park can also be considered a training center.

Next, representatives of the diplomatic corps arrived at the Hochazfilm studio pavilion and were briefed on very broad prospective directions of the studio's multifaceted creative hub, including the implementation of projects related to the Karabakh region's extensive promotion, coverage of cultural and mass events held in the region, reconstruction in Lachin, promotion of national brands and local products, cooperation with the cinema and creative union, organization of summer schools for youth, creative workshops, cinematography courses, drawing classes, and competitions.

The pavilion meets international standards for technical equipment, including sound and light insulation.

The diplomats also observed the process of releasing trout into a section of the Hakari river, flowing through the Lachin district, to help restore the ecosystem in the territories of Karabakh and East Zangazur.

In conclusion of the visit, the diplomats took part in the opening of the exhibition "How the Carpet Was Created", dedicated to May 28 - Independence Day, featuring national carpets and art pieces created in various styles.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
1 day of probation for man who opened fire inside South Loop movie theatre

1 day of probation for man who opened fire inside South Loop movie theatre

CHICAGO  A man who opened fire inside a Chicago theatre amid an argument with a teen will not spend time behind bars.

Court records show Babacar Mbengue pled guilty to one misdemeanor count of reckless conduct. Cook County judge sentenced Mbengue to one day of court supervision. Mbengue must also pay court fines imposed by the judge.

***The video above is from a previous report***

SEE ALSO: Stabbing outside Chicago Theatre prompts police presence, draws large crowd

The shooting occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at the ICON Movie Theatre in South Loop, located in the 1100 block of South Delano Court.

The Chicago Tribune reported that the teen jumped out of the ride-share without paying his fare. Mbengue followed him into the theatre, and a physical altercation ensued. During the fight, a handgun fell from the teens pocket, and Mbengue picked it up and fired into the floor.

No one was injured.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  One man is dead and two others were injured in what police described as a possible fight between roommates following a shooting in the northwest Las Vegas valley.

It took place on Thursday shortly after 6:30 p.m. along the 7300 block of Nautical Stone Court near North Durango Drive and Oso Blanca Road.

When officers arrived they saw two men injured in the street with gunshot wounds. Officers then dragged the two men to a safe location, that way a medical team could reach them.

One person is dead and two are injured following a shooting on Thursday, May 23, 2024, shortly after 6:30 p.m. along Nautical Stone Court near North Durango Drive and Oso Blanca Road. (KLAS)

One person is dead and two are injured following a shooting on Thursday, May 23, 2024, shortly after 6:30 p.m. along Nautical Stone Court near North Durango Drive and Oso Blanca Road. (KLAS)

One person is dead and two are injured following a shooting on Thursday, May 23, 2024, shortly after 6:30 p.m. along Nautical Stone Court near North Durango Drive and Oso Blanca Road. (KLAS)

One person is dead and two are injured following a shooting on Thursday, May 23, 2024, shortly after 6:30 p.m. along Nautical Stone Court near North Durango Drive and Oso Blanca Road. (KLAS)

Another female who had been shot approached officers. All three were then taken to the hospital for medical treatment, according to police.

As officers located the suspects home the garage door opened and the suspect surrendered to police without incident, police said.

One of the men who was shot was believed to be in his 30s and was pronounced dead. A second man believed to be in his 40s and the woman who was injured have non-life threatening injuries, police said.

This was a pretty dynamic incident that occurred in a very tight neighborhood over here. Were extremely lucky that this is all that happened and one person is deceased right now, Lt. Jason Johansson said.

Police believe the suspect and the two men may have been roommates at the home who got into a verbal altercation that turned into a physical altercation. Police allege that the suspect at some point shot both men. Police also said they believe the woman may have been an innocent bystander in the shooting.

Las Vegas Metro police told 8 News Now it is investigating the incident as a homicide. Those with information on the shooting should call Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
1 in hospital after shooting in central Fresno, police say

1 in hospital after shooting in central Fresno, police say

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  One person is in the hospital after police in Fresno responded to a call of shots fired on Friday, officers say.

The shooting happened around 10 a.m. at the Parc Grove Commons apartments near Clinton Avenue and Fresno Street. Police say they responded to the area for a report of three to four shots fired.

Man with gun near Fresno highway shot dead by CHP, police say

Officers say they received a second call of a shooting victim in the 1000 block of Sherman Court.

Investigators say they found a victim who was shot in the lower body. The victim was transported to a local hospital. Police say there was some type of disturbance before the shooting.

If you have any information contact the Fresno Police Department at (559) 621-7000.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
1 seriously injured, another hurt after crash at New Hampshire toll plaza

One person was seriously injured and another was hurt after a crash at a New Hampshire toll plaza.

State police officers responded to the Hampton Toll Plaza on Thursday, May 23 around 4:11 p.m. for reports of a crash on I-95 northbound.

Upon arrival troopers found two occupants inside the vehicle, one had serious injuries and was not alert. Troopers attempted to get inside the car through the passengers side but were unable to because to the damage.

Officers broke the rear passenger side window to get inside the vehicle and further assessed the passengers injuries. The passenger was taken to the hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The driver was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

Preliminary investigation suggests that Thomas Lynch, 78, of North Andover, Massachusetts was traveling along I-95 northbound in his 2013 Nissan Altima. Police say he was driving when he lost control striking a concrete traffic barrier in front of the Hampton Toll Booth located in the fourth lane of the plaza.

After impact, the vehicle rotated before stopping.

The crash is under investigation by State police and anyone with information is asked to contact Trooper Bourque at Daniel.J.Bourque@DOS.NH.GOV.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
10 numbers you should know about McMenamins Elks Temple, celebrating 5 years in Tacoma

From purchase to grand reveal, the McMenamins Elks Temple research, restoration and construction project in downtown Tacoma took 10 years. What would have likely been a triumphant one-year anniversary for the Portland-based company and the City of Destiny was stomped by the worst of the 2020 pandemic.

In honor of Year 5, which officially hit at the end of April, we took a tour of the now-very-much-alive hotel, concert venue and brewery inside the 44,361-square-foot structure, as well as the series of bars and restaurants that serve locals and tourists day and night, seven days a week.

Here are 10 numbers to know about the history and evolution of McMenamins Tacoma.

$160,000: the original construction cost (in the early 1900s)

The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks spent $160,000 constructing their opulent, grand new temple in 1916.

A century later, McMenamins, now with 56 properties in Oregon and Washington, spent more than $36 million restoring the fireproof (thanks to its nearly indestructible cast-marble exterior) building at the head of Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma.

Company founders Mike and Brian McMenamin officially acquired the building for $1.2 million in 2009.

The Elks Temple, shown here in 1970, was constructed in 1916 and used until 1986, when it went dark for 30 years. After McMenamins bought the property in 2009, it spent years researching and procuring investments before starting abatement in 2016. The venue, restaurants and hotel opened in 2019.

30: the number of years Elks Temple sat (mostly) empty

An emblem of the second Renaissance Revival style, Lodge #174 and the adjacent Spanish Steps were designed by Edouard Frere Champney, who studied at LEcole des Beaux Arts in Paris and worked on several Worlds Fair expositions. The Elks occupied it until 1965, when they moved to Central Tacoma.

Over the next two decades, it hosted various community events, from school dances to memorial services, according to local history pages. It went dark in 1986.

The McMenamin brothers, known in the Northwest for their studied restoration of historic properties and their eclectic decor, spent six years following their 2009 purchase digging through archives, securing investments and determining what, exactly, they wanted to do in Tacoma.

The result is pretty darn close to the plans they announced as discovery and abatement began in 2016, which led to unforeseen issues, such as a rotting ceiling support beam, and heightened costs.

The McMenamin brothers are known both for restoring historic buildings and for the eclectic style they imbue into each of their 56 properties. Staff wasnt sure just how many light fixtures are in Elks Temple, but its definitely in the hundreds.

201: the room number where you can remember the graffiti

As the Elks Temple, not alone in its decline, languished in the 1990s, young graffiti artists snuck through a loosely boarded-up window below the Spanish Steps, as a March 2019 McMenamins blog post recalls.

One of the companys artists tracked down some of those who posted their work on the walls and maybe skateboarded in the empty pool on the Commerce Street level (now home to The Old Hangout). They were invited to rekindle their work in Room 201, which can be readily booked by any guest  and its not the most expensive room on the property, noted hotel manager Michael Do during a May 22 tour.

There are 45 total guest rooms, each with a king bed and private bathroom. Some only offer an atrium view, while rooms with outward-facing windows also have a balcony.

Meredith Arseneau (left) of Pouslbo and Sarah Beckett of Silverdale tour the atrium at the McMenamins Elks Temple in downtown Tacoma on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

7 (or is it 6?): the number of floors, including the basement

As a 2004 report about the citys restoration of the Spanish Steps said, In a city built on a hill, the Spanish Steps comprise the only formalized, landscaped hill-climb in the downtown and the most formal public exterior stairway in Tacoma.

Indeed, Elks Temple boasts several entrances on two streets and the Steps landing, on which guests of The Spanish Bar can enjoy gin and tonics with tapas al fresco in forgiving weather. That level  technically Floor 2  also holds The Spanish Ballroom, the concert and event hall.

The Commerce Street entrance leads to Level 1, home to The Bottle Shop, next to which is the brewery that produces much of the beer you can enjoy throughout the property. Head down a few more stairs to The Old Hangout, the tiki-themed bar known for its high-octane cocktails and random gong sounds. This room originally had a pool, honored here by a small pond with a running waterfall.

The Broadway entrance opens into the lobby and The Pub, open daily at 7 a.m., on Floor 4. Floor 5 exists spiritually in this space, but you wont find a conspicuous fifth floor sign.

Docs Bar and The Mezzanine Lounge (tickets sold for most concerts) live on Floor 3.

Floors 6 and 7 hold most of the hotel rooms, although there are also rooms tucked in Floors 2 and 3.

4: the number of stairwells

If you consider the Broadway entrance the front of Elks Temple, the front stairwell aligns with the only elevator. Here you can access all seven floors.

In the corner of the building where the Spanish Steps intersect with Commerce Street, the so-called Wide Stairwell takes you to most floors. Hotel guests beware: It skips the sixth.

There are two smaller stairwells that provide access to the lodging areas and perhaps respite for staff.

6.5 bars: the real number of places to get a drink

Bar manager Lacey McKim likes to say that McMenamins Elks Temple actually has six-and-a-half bars, though its usually cited as just five.

The Bottle Shop is typically omitted, she said, but you can get a beer, wine or cider there (no liquor or cocktails, hence the half-count) and hang out in a kind of lounge area. The Ballroom also has its own full-service bar.

Of course, the five-count does include The Vault, the clandestine bar that resides in a cement-encased room under the sidewalk on Broadway, through which you can glimpse shadows of passersby through purple-tinged miniature glass blocks (installed by the McMenamins to provide modest natural light).

The Vault, where classic cocktails rule, is accessed through a secret door and down a dark hallway. Five years in, people still ask staff members where to find it, but they wont tell you. Its about the journey!

Like any good sport, we wont tell you where it is.

Even five years in, said Do, front-desk staff still fields a singular question more than most: Wheres the secret bar?

Their answer will always be the same: ITS A SECRET.

2: the number of kitchens

All but The Vault and The Bottle Shop double as restaurants, each with their own personality, said Renee Rank, McMenamins marketing director.

They are fed by two full kitchens. One is on the first floor, servicing The Old Hangout and The Spanish Bar. The other is on the fourth floor, servicing The Pub and Docs.

Head brewer Nick Webber opened the Elks Temple brewery in 2019. He and his team produce all of the draft beer you can enjoy on-site.

1,000: the annual number of barrels produced by the on-site brewery

McMenamins has been in the brewery business since 1985. Rank described the decision as one propelled in part by a change in Oregons craft brewery laws, which for the first time allowed producers to sell their product on site.

The company now operates two dozen brewing facilities, including one on the first floor of Elks Temple in Tacoma managed by head brewer Nick Webber, who previously worked at the Queen Anne outpost. He and his small team produce about 1,000 barrels a year using six 10-barrel fermenting tanks and a very cool open-air copper mash tun.

We like to keep it old-school, he said.

749: the full capacity of The Spanish Ballroom

The venue is permitted for 700 general-admission attendees on the main floor of the ballroom, which boasts original Elks Temple elements including the floor and ornate trim at the top of the quirky paintings along the walls featuring Tacoma-inspired images of Richard Wagners opera, Ring.

The 21-plus mezzanine offers an additional 49 seats, with general admission access.

Equipped with a Bose sound system, the stage has welcomed the likes of Stephen Marley and Seattles own Mudhoney. The space also hosts events like the upcoming Sabertooth Micro Fest, a combo celebration of beer and psychedelic stoner rock, Grit City Brewfest and a 90s night.

Renee Rank and Ian Slick show off The Spanish Ballroom on May 22. The official capacity on the floor is 700, plus another 49 in the mezzanine.

200: the number of employees at McMenamins Elks Temple

The Tacoma McMenamins employs around 200 people, staff said in May.

MCMENAMINS ELKS TEMPLE

 565 Broadway, Tacoma, mcmenamins.com/elks-temple

 5 main bars and restaurants open daily, hours vary

 Check Spanish Ballroom for event schedule

 Hotel bookings available online
A man holds a placard reading "Having an incompetent bungler as speaker of parliament and a virus like the KMT's committee whip is Taiwan's misfortune". Taiwan's parliament is currently debating several controversial bills proposed by the opposition. Opponents of the initiatives fear a dismantling of democracy in Taiwan. Johannes Neudecker/dpa

More than 100,000 people protested outside the main building of Taiwan's parliament in Taipei on Friday, demanding transparency of the legislative process and expressing concerns about the erosion of democracy.

The protest gained momentum just three days after the last demonstration conducted by 30,000 people on Tuesday, when lawmakers were discussing controversial bills, including the expansion of the legislature's investigative powers.

On Friday, people again expressed their worries about what they see as a dysfunctional legislature and the violation of procedures by China-friendly opposition parties, including the Chinese Nationalist Party, or Kuomintang (KMT), and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP).

Demonstrators displayed banners and signs condemning the collaboration between the opposition and the Chinese Communist Party, which they say is trying to infiltrate society in Taiwan.

"I protested 10 years ago here to defend democracy. Now I have to return here to show my daughter that peoples voices have to be heard," a 42-year-old mother with her 8-year-old daughter told dpa on the sidelines of the protest.

Inside the conference hall, for more than 12 hours, lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) - which holds the presidency - protested and expressed their dissatisfaction by hanging banners reading No discussion, no democracy. Lawmakers from the opposition, which form the majority in parliament, insisted that they were promoting reforms.

In many cities, thousands of people also gathered to support Friday's protest in the capital.
103 settlements in Donetsk Oblast cut off from power grid because of Russian attacks

Consumers in Ukraines six oblasts have been cut off from the power grid because of Russian attacks, and reconnection works are underway.

Source: Ukraines Ministry of Energy

Details: More than 1,000 consumers were cut off in Donetsk Oblast. Power engineers have reconnected 1,800 consumers, including those who had lost power earlier. A total of 103 settlements remain without a power supply, affecting over 47,000 consumers in total.

A total of 3,700 consumers in 51 settlements were cut off from the power grid in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Two overhead power transmission lines in Mykolaiv Oblast were temporarily out of service due to technological reasons. They have since been restored to operation.

Combat actions cut off the power grid in Sumy Oblast to 4,800 consumers in 75 settlements.

In Kharkiv Oblast, power companies have reconnected 101 customers who were cut off due to combat actions. A total of 37,400 consumers remain without electricity supply because of attacks.

In the city of Kherson, more than 3,000 consumers were cut off from the power grid, and 25,800 consumers in 45 settlements in Kherson Oblast are without power.

In Chernihiv Oblast, 1,500 consumers in 27 settlements remain without power as a result of combat actions.

Background:

On 23 May, Russian attacks on Donetsk Oblast caused a mine to stop working, keeping more than 160 workers underground.

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11-year-old graduates California junior college, has one piece of advice: 'Never give up'

A handout photo of Athena Elling in cap and gown at Irvine Valley College. Elling will be the school's youngest graduate

Eleven-year-old Athena Elling's cap and gown may be a lot smaller than most of her fellow classmates graduating from junior college on Thursday, but her degree is a pretty big deal.

Along with graduates who are predominately between 19 and 21 years old, Athena walked across the stage to get her degree from Irvine Valley College in Irvine, California, on Thursday evening. She is graduating with cum laude honors and getting her associate's degree in liberal arts.

Athena's mother, Christina Chow, told USA TODAY in an interview ahead of the graduation that the community college allowed her daughter to explore a wide array of interests.

"In the past year, she has wanted to be a divorce attorney, an allergist, and an actor," Chow said. "We've tried not to say no to anything she's expressed interest in."

Elling family holds first and second place for youngest grad

This is not the first time the Elling family has a much younger graduate at Irvine Valley College.

Athena's brother, Tycho Elling, nabbed the record for youngest graduate from the Orange County community college one year ago, also at the age of 11.

Naturally, a bit of sibling rivalry drove Athena to beat her big brother.

"My brother also graduated with an AA just a couple days before he turned 12 and when he did it, I really also wanted to do that," Elling said

Handout image of Tycho Elling at Irvine Valley College.

The family consulted with counselors at the college and found that the liberal arts degree could be finished in time to set the new record.

Chow described Tycho, who now studies at the University of California-Irvine, as "hyper-focused" and Athena is a natural extrovert.

Athena has a second-degree black belt in taekwondo and studies acting and dance outside of the college.

"We've been lucky that she has so many interests because like her taekwondo you know, classmates are her age, her dance classmates are her age" Chow said. "The fact that she had so many additional outside interests, was really kind of a blessing."

College atmosphere provides worldly exposure

Athena told USA TODAY that she absorbed the value of learning from community college students who had a wide array of motives to further their education.

"I love how to see how they're taking classes just because they really enjoy the subjects," she said. "I get to learn so much from them, because they always know so much more"

Chow recognized that the exposure to multiple generations of learners allowed Elling to learn lessons that extend beyond the lecture hall.

Young grad gives advice

Thursday's ceremony will not be the last time Athena will grace the Irvine Valley College campus. The graduate told USA TODAY that she intends to complete multiple other associate's degrees

"She had me email and also asked her counselor if she can get her credit limit lifted," Chow said. "She said now that she has an associate's (degree) doesn't that prove she can handle the work. She wanted to take more diverse classes and more credits even over the summer."

When asked if she had any advice for the generally much older graduating class of 2024, Athena simply said: "Just never give up."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 11-year-old girl graduates from Southern California community college
113 combat clashes with Russians took place at contact line in past day  General Staff

There have been 113 combat clashes with the Russian forces at the contact line over the past day.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine spokesperson Dmytro Lykhovii during a national joint 24/7 newscast

Quote: "There have been 113 combat clashes with the Russian forces at the contact line over the past day. "

Details: The Russians carried out 3 missile strikes (13 missiles), 57 airstrikes (97 drones), over 990 kamikaze strikes (Shaheds, Lancets, FPV drones), and over 4,000 other attacks, including 147 with the use of multiple-launch rocket systems, over the past day.

On the Kharkiv front, the Russians continued offensive assault operations. A total of 4 combat clashes took place there. The fighting took place in the vicinity of Lyptsi, Starytsa and Tykhe. Over the past day, the Russians lost over 130 personnel in the north of Kharkiv Oblast, including 31 killed, as well as 23 pieces of weapons and military equipment.

On the Kupiansk front, the Russians launched 27 attacks on Ukrainian positions.

On the Lyman front, the Russian forces made 5 attempts to break through the defences of Ukrainian troops.

On the Siversk front, the Ukrainian defenders repelled 3 Russian attacks, 10 attacks on the Kramatorsk front, 28 attacks on the Pokrovsk front, 16 attacks on the Kurakhove front, and 2 attacks on the Vremivka front.

On the Prydniprovske front, the Russians are continuing to try to push Ukrainian forces from the left bank of the Dnipro River. Eleven Russian attacks were conducted there.

Ukrainian troops struck one command post, 1 electronic warfare station and 10 clusters of personnel and military equipment belonging to the Russians over the past day.

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SPRINGFIELD  After a last-minute plea from Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Senate President Don Harmon is expected to put the brakes on legislation that would extend a moratorium on public school closings in Chicago.

In a letter to Harmon on Thursday, Johnson wrote that the legislation, originally aimed at protecting selective enrollment schools from closures, seeks to solve problems that do not exist, and promised that selective enrollment schools are not being targeted.

The District will not close selective enrollment schools nor will the District make disproportionate budget cuts to selective enrollment schools, the mayor said in the letter. The District will maintain admissions standards at selective enrollment schools. Any narrative to the contrary is patently false.

The bill had passed overwhelmingly in the House and had no opposition in a Senate committee. But sources said Harmon is not likely to call the bill for a vote before the full Senate before the General Assembly adjourns its spring session. Both Johnson, who once worked for Harmon as an aide, and the Chicago Teachers Union have staunchly opposed the legislation.

A spokesman for Harmon, an Oak Park Democrat, declined to comment on his plans for the bill.

But Sen. Robert Martwick, an ally of Johnson and the CTU, said he was glad to see the issue resolved without the citys hands being tied by legislation, because the mayor has made it very clear that his intention is to wait for the fully elected school board to take place before major changes are made.

As the mayor has publicly provided assurances that there will be no dramatic changes to the role of selective enrollment and magnet schools in the school district, the need for the legislation is obviated, Martwick, a Chicago Democrat said. We dont need it anymore.

Under the bill, the Chicago school board would be barred from approving any school closings, consolidations, or phase-outs until Feb. 1, 2027, instead of Jan. 15 of next year. The measure also says that funding of selective enrollment schools should not be disproportionate compared to other CPS schools, and bars any changes to admissions standards at selective enrollment schools until Feb. 1, 2027.

The legislation was filed by state Rep. Margaret Croke after Johnsons school board last year announced its intention to focus on neighborhood schools in a forthcoming five-year plan. School choice advocates feared that approach would lead to selective enrollment schools being shut down, despite denials from the board which Johnson reiterated in his letter.

With regard to disproportionate budget cuts to selective enrollment schools, I can say unequivocally that there never has been any statement by the Board or my administration that selective enrollment schools will be disproportionately harmed relative to neighborhood schools, Johnson said in the letter to Harmon. My vision for CPS is not one where some students suffer at the expense of others. It is to ensure that we have a system that is geared toward the benefit of all students, and this of course includes our students enrolled at selective schools.

As for the provision of the bill calling for no changes to the admissions processes for selective enrollment schools, Johnson wrote the Board has made no mention of eliminating testing and other criteria for admission to selective schools.

What I and the Board are committed to is ensuring that testing remains an important part of the admissions process and that we will fulfill our responsibility to CPS families to continually evaluate our system to ensure that our schools offer every student a chance to succeed, Johnson wrote. A system that has seen a precipitous decline in Black and Latino students as well as those who qualify for free or reduced lunch at some of our highest-performing and most well-resourced schools is not a system that reflects my values as mayor, or our values as a city.

In a statement to the Tribune, Croke, a Chicago Democrat, said she hopes the Senate realizes that (Johnsons) letter falls horribly short from how it is being spun that they will reconsider and run this bill.

I am deeply disappointed to learn that President Harmon may not call this bill. While his letter agreement with the mayor contains some concessions, it does not protect magnet or charter schools and still allows for changes in admissions criteria for selective enrollment schools, Croke said. The CPS school budgeting process has been hidden from both the public and from Springfield legislators, and I fully expect that disproportionate cuts will be made to magnet schools and charters will eventually be closed.

At an unrelated news conference Friday, Johnson did not answer when asked if his promise to not close or cut funding for selective enrollment schools will extend to magnet and charter schools. He said the ultimate goal is for more equitable state education funding, while also referring to his past activism in opposition to Mayor Rahm Emanuels school closures in the early 2010s.

No one should lose at the expense of someone else winning. But I can tell you this, Johnson said. For a very long time, I can tell you who has been losing. It has been Black and brown families. You know how I know? Because Ive fought against school closings. I have taken arrest for them. I have gone on a hunger strike.

He also did not answer when asked how Harmon responded to his letter. He said that selective enrollment schools were initially designed to confront segregation.

Instead, you have an even greater stratified school district, he said. Who wants to be responsible for creating a stratified school district where those few individuals get to have and everybody else gets to lose? Who wants that kind of school district? I certainly dont.

Without new legislation, a moratorium on closing CPS buildings is set to expire in January under the 2021 state law creating an elected school board. But after extensive haggling on how to implement an elected board, Gov. J.B. Pritzker in March signed a measure that wont put a fully elected, 21-member school board in place until January 2027. Beginning in January, the board will be composed of 10 elected members and 11 others, including the board president, appointed by Johnson.

Pritzker had expressed support for Crokes legislation, saying any decisions about school closures should be made by a fully elected board.

Last year, Harmon introduced legislation supporting a near-fully elected board to be installed by 2025. But in March he acquiesced to the Houses hybrid plan after receiving a letter from Johnson urging that model. The hybrid plan was also supported by the Chicago Teachers Union, where Johnson once worked as an organizer.

Crokes bill was passed by the House in a 92-8 vote on April 18, with all eight no votes coming from Democrats. The vote was viewed as a resounding slap at the CTU, which labeled the legislation racist, much to the consternation of legislators who supported it.

Earlier this month, the Senate Executive Committee passed Crokes bill without opposition, the same day Johnson came to Springfield to lobby Pritzker and lawmakers for more funding thats critical to Chicagos operations. Asked during a press gaggle if he felt snubbed that the bill passed through committee on the same day as his visit to the Illinois State Capitol, Johnson said, theres a process that the General Assembly goes through. I understand that process. And were going to stick to that process.

In Thursdays letter, Johnson sought to assure Harmon that no selective enrollment school would be closed before the fully elected board is seated in January 2027. He also said none of those schools would experience a disproportionate resource decrease if budget reductions are required to be made before the seating of the fully elected board.

Selective enrollment schools will remain among the highest achieving schools in the state while the district strives to improve diversity and expand opportunities for ALL of Chicagos students and schools, the mayor wrote.

The issue over selective enrollment schools revolves in part around school funding. Since CPS began finalizing its budget for next school year in recent weeks, CEO Pedro Martinez has repeatedly said a new, more transparent and more equitable funding model will benefit schools of all types, by guaranteeing minimum numbers and ratios of educators and support staff.

No category of schools are being disproportionately impacted by this new model, Martinez said at the April Board of Education meeting, adding that the district was working with outlier schools with budget concerns. Johnson echoed the sentiment in his letter to Harmon, writing twice that no selective enrollment school will be subject to a disproportionate resource decrease.

But some parents have said the shift in emphasis to neighborhood schools has translated to funding cuts for their selective enrollment and magnet school students. Whether cuts at any school are disproportionate is unclear, as CPS does not make school-level budgets, districtwide, publicly available for comparison.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan has discussed the activity of the executive body controlling gender equality in 2023 at today's session, Trend reports.

Bahar Muradova, representing the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, shared the information.

It was highlighted that, in line with Article 20 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On Guarantees of Gender Equality," the report from the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs for the year 2023 details the efforts undertaken in the past year to fulfill international obligations concerning the primary areas of state policy in this domain, along with the progress dynamics in comparison to previous years.

After discussion, the document was put to vote and adopted.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Months before a man wanted by multiple police agencies shot and killed four officers outside an east Charlotte home, city police visited the same address looking for a driver involved in a dangerous, high-speed chase.

That driver turned out to be Terry Clark Hughes, Jr., police eventually determined. Hughes was killed on April 29 after ambushing officers attempting to serve a warrant for his arrest at 5525 Galway Drive, police say.

At around 3:30 p.m. Jan. 6  a Saturday  Hughes led a Lincoln County Sheriffs deputy on a chase that reached 120 mph, drove into oncoming traffic and through a red light, according to a sheriffs incident report.

The suspect vehicle went head on with a Silver Ram truck causing it to leave the roadway, Deputy D. Diberardino wrote in the report. The deputy was called off the pursuit when speeds again hit 100 mph as the chase neared Huntersville, the report said.

But the SUVs registration pointed police to the site of the police ambush. The vehicle was registered to Natasha Gibbs, who lived there, the report notes.

During the lengthy April 29 shootout, Gibbs called 911 to alert police that she and a teenager were inside the home, according to police radio traffic.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police has previously said that a warrant for eluding stemmed from this chase and led a U.S. Marshals task force to arrest Hughes on Galway Drive, where court documents indicated he also lived.

A Lincoln County Sheriffs Office incident report on the chase provides more details into what happened in January.

A reckless high-speed chase

The high-speed chase started west of Lake Norman on N.C. 16 Business Highway, a two- sometimes three-lane rural road, lined with patches of forests and small shopping centers.

The incident reports says it unfolded like this:

The deputy first noticed a charcoal gray Dodge Journey SUV as it backed into a gas station parking spot, the report states. The driver entered the store, hopped back into the car and drove about a half-mile to a Baptist church, where a white GMC truck pulled up next to him.

Terry Clark Hughes

He then drove another half-mile to a second gas station, gassing up at pump No. 7.

The driver, Diberardino wrote, was a middle aged black male wearing a black jacket and black beanie.

When the driver left the station and failed to use a turning signal, Diberardino flipped on his lights.

The driver pulled over. But as the deputy got out of his patrol car, the driver yelled, Why are you harassing me, according to the incident report.

Then he sped away, nearly colliding with a vehicle and turning back onto N.C. 16 Highway.

For a while, the Dodge Journey sped along at 55 mph  20 more than the posted limit. Then it accelerated. It reached 120 mph, nearly rammed a vehicle making a u-turn and swerved from one lane to another, the report states.

South, on N.C. 73 Highway, Diberardino used his patrol cars PA system. The driver looked back through his driver-side mirror, the deputy noted.

But he never let up, swerving again and cutting off more drivers. And when traffic got heavy, the diver switched lanes, driving directly into oncoming cars.

The vehicle continued to drive recklessly as it passed several vehicles from the oncoming lane nearly causing several collisions, Diberardino wrote.

Thats when the deputy writes he was told to stop the chase.

Tracking who owned the SUV

After the sheriffs office ran the Journeys plates, it learned that the vehicle was registered to Gibbs, who lived at the home on Galway Drive, the incident report states.

Following the pursuit, a CMPD officer stopped by the Galway Drive house, according to the report. The officer reached Gibbs by phone. Gibbs told the officer that she had her car all day and no one had used it.

Gibbs became uncooperative and did not give any additional information, the report states.

Months later, a U.S. Marshals task force arrived at the same house in east Charlotte, attempting to arrest Hughes.

Police say Hughes opened fire from a second-floor window, killing four law enforcement officers  Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks, Jr., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Officer Joshua Eyer and Adult Correction Officers Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott.

Hughes was shot and killed too.

In January, CMPD officers, following up on a high-speed chase in Lincoln County, were led to the home at 5525 Galway Drive. Four officers died during a shootout there with suspect Terry Clark Hughes Jr. last month.

During the shootout, Charlotte police radio traffic mentions Gibbs, who told dispatchers that she and a teenager were in the house. The teen was hiding in a second-floor closet, the caller said.

The Charlotte Observer called Gibbs earlier this month but she declined an interview request.

CMPD said Hughes was wanted for possession of a firearm by a felon and two counts of felony fleeing to elude Lincoln County deputies.

Hughes also had a warrant for his arrest from charges in Person County, near the Virginia border. According to Person County court records, Hughes pleaded guilty to felony breaking and entering in 2010 and served about five months in prison.

In 2021, he was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of marijuana between a half ounce and 1.5 ounces, Person County records show.

He never showed up to court during his scheduled hearing last year, triggering the warrant. Hughes also had two orders for his arrest for missed court appearances in Mecklenburg County.

Those orders stemmed from 2021 charges of fleeing to elude arrest and possession of marijuana with intent to sell or deliver, court records show.

In the Spotlight designates ongoing topics of high interest that are driven by The Charlotte Observers focus on accountability reporting.
Ukraine's Ministry of Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories has announced an agreed decision to forcibly evacuate 123 children from certain settlements in Kharkiv Oblast.

Source: Ministry of Reintegration

Details: This concerns orphans and children deprived of parental care, along with their legal guardians.

The relevant decision was agreed by members of the Coordination Headquarters for the mandatory evacuation of the population under martial law, chaired by Vice Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk.

Compulsory evacuation of 123 children is planned to be carried out from 36 settlements in Bohodukhiv, Izium, Kupiansk and Chuhuiv districts.

Those who are going to evacuate will first be accommodated in Kharkiv, and then they will be taken to Volyn Oblast in Ukraine's north-west.

The evacuation will last for 60 days. It is free of charge.

More information is available on the Ministry's website.

Background:

The Russian forces continue offensive assault operations on the Kharkiv front. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that four combat clashes had taken place on 23 May.

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Police in New York on Thursday announced they arrested a 13-year-old male in connection with a suspected hate crime attack in Brooklyn. A second person is still wanted in connection with the vicious pipe attack. One of the alleged attackers fled the scene on a childs scooter.

The unidentified youth in custody is facing multiple hate crime and assault charges in connection with the attack that took place around 3 p.m. on May 13. Police allege the youth and a second suspect approached the victim who was seated on the steps outside the victim's residence in Williamsburg.

The two suspects reportedly asked the 33-year-old victim, who is gender-nonconforming, if the victim was a woman and hurled further anti-LGBTQ+ remarks, Patch reported. When the victim responded and the dispute grew heated, police said one of the pair picked up a nearby pipe and struck the victim on the head.

The two suspects immediately fled the scene. Pictures of the suspected attackers released by Crimestoppers showed one of the suspects on a childs scooter. Both suspects were wearing dark-colored hoodies.

The victim suffered bruising to the head but was reportedly doing well and otherwise unhurt.

Police provided no further details of the second suspect, including whether he has been identified or apprehended.

Anyone with information on the case is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, via the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and using the code TIP577.
17-Year-Old Student Earns Both High School Diploma And 2-Year College Degree: My True Motivation Was My Immigrant Parents

17-Year-Old Student Earns Both High School Diploma And 2-Year College Degree: My True Motivation Was My Immigrant Parents | John D. Buffington

A 17-year-old student earned both a high school diploma and a two-year associates degree in college at the same time. Adrian Ottah had the opportunity to pursue both tracks at his school, where professors teach college courses to a select group of students.

The student attends the University High School in Newark, NJ. Through the program, Ottah earned 60 college credits. He said the classes were more difficult than his high school ones, but he still followed through with them.

Im graduating with over a 3.0 GPA in a college class while juggling high school classes as well, and I have a 3.5 in high school, he told ABC 7 NY.

My true motivation was my parents, my immigrant parents, Adrian Ottah said. I know they didnt have the opportunity to do this, so when I had the opportunity, I just took it and ran with it. https://t.co/my0ROjlw1F  KHOU 11 News Houston (@KHOU) May 24, 2024

His mother noted how proud she is.

Its amazing, Im out of words  Im so proud of him, Miriam Watson said.

Ottahs parents moved from Nigeria to New Jersey before their son was born. They decided to relocate their life for greener pastures.

I heard America you could live your dream, I said OK, let me go see that dream, Watson told the news outlet.

This is what motivated Ottah to pursue higher education early on.

My true motivation was my parents, my immigrant parents, I know they didnt have the opportunity to do this, so when I had the opportunity, I just took it and ran with it, he said.
Across the world, there are naturally occurring optical illusions that captivate spectators.

Cloud formations can sometimes make it seem like there's an ocean or a UFO in the sky.

Whether it is salt flats in Bolivia or rock formations in Arizona, nature never ceases to amaze.

Everyone loves an optical illusion  even if they leave us completely stumped  and they're all around us in the natural world.

From an underwater waterfall in the Indian Ocean to a surrealist scene in Namibia, we rounded up 18 naturally occurring illusions and optical phenomena that will make you double-take.

If you can't fathom how these places are real, there's good news: Some of the locations named on this list are accessible to visitors, so if you're looking for travel inspiration, you can investigate them yourself.

Take a closer look below and find out how these illusions are created.

Lucy Yang contributed to an earlier version of this report.

This "underwater waterfall" is not what it seems.

There's a simple geographical explanation for this phenomenon. Myroslava Bozhko/Shutterstock

Along the shoreline of Mauritius, there appears to be a flowing river underneath the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean. While underwater waterfalls do exist, according to the National Ocean Service, this isn't one of them. In this case, what looks like water is actually sand getting pushed off an underwater shelf called the Mascarene Plateau, according to Britannica.

Similarly, Texas' famous Jacob's Well looks like it's thousands of feet deep, but it's just an illusion.

Jacob's Well is a karstic spring and waterhole in the Texas Hill Country that appears deeper than it is. benedek/Getty Images

Jacob's Well in Austin, Texas, is known for terrifying people who jump into this giant watering hole. While it's 140 feet deep, according to Hays County's official website, an illusion makes it look like the well is much deeper. With a trick of light and crystal-clear water, it seems like you're jumping thousands of feet into the Earth.

Yosemite's Horsetail Fall looks like it's on fire at a certain time of the year.

Yosemite's Horsetail Fall. Dan Dunn/Shutterstock

Every year, around the second week of February, the setting sun hits Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park at a particular angle, illuminating the top of the waterfall, according to its official website. If the fall is flowing and the weather conditions are just right, the illuminated water glows bright orange and red, as if it's on fire.

This giant shadowy figure is a naturally occurring optical phenomenon.

This photo was taken in the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia. MagMac83/Shutterstock

A giant figure appears to loom in the middle of this image taken in the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia.

Known as a Brocken Spectre, this phenomenon occurs when an observer's shadow is cast onto the surface of clouds or thick mist, according to Britannica. The head of the magnified figure is often surrounded by rainbow-colored rings  another optical phenomenon known as a glory, which is created when sunlight hits tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere and is scattered back toward the viewer, according to EarthSky.

This salt flat in Bolivia is perfect for creating optical illusions.

No, this isn't photoshopped. Kath Watson/Shutterstock

Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, transforms into a giant reflective surface when it's covered in a thin layer of water, either from rain or nearby overflowing lakes, National Geographic reported.

Stretching on for miles, completely level, the salt flat also appears to have an endless horizon, allowing photographers to create illusions by playing around with depth and perspective.

While this sky may look like ocean waves, it's actually a special kind of cloud.

Undulatus asperatus clouds. Andrea J. Smith/Shutterstock

Commonly referred to as agitated or turbulent clouds, undulatus asperatus clouds are fairly new to meteorology, Slate reported. They are typically formed when rising air forms to create a widespread cloud cover. This paired with wind and turbulence makes the cloud look like it's undulating, mimicking ocean waves.

Meanwhile, these are clouds, not UFOs.

A photo of the Plosky and Tolbachik volcanoes on the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. Michael Dorogovich/Shutterstock

Known for their saucer-like appearance, lenticular clouds are stationary clouds that usually form on the downwind side of a mountain range, given that the temperature is low enough, according to the National Weather Service. Under the right conditions, moisture in the air condenses to form these massive, striking shapes in the sky.

Dracula orchids, also called monkey orchids, look like a face hidden in nature.

A Dracula orchid looks like a face. cotosa/Shutterstock

At first glance, this flower appears to be a face, with eyes, a nose, a mouth, and even hair. To some, the flower looks like a monkey face. The bizarre-looking flower is actually called a Dracula orchid, and the "eyes" are just short petals, according to the American Orchid Society.

The tips of this moth's wings look exactly like the heads of snakes.

Two atlas moths breeding. lapon pinta/Shutterstock

When threatened, the atlas moth drops to the ground and flaps its wings, according to The Natural History Museum. The tips of the insect's wings look incredibly similar to a snake's head, which allows the moth to scare off predators.

This isn't a lens flare from a camera.

You can see this optical phenomenon in real life. Gen_Shtab/Shutterstock

Sundogs, or parhelia, are created when sunlight is refracted by ice crystals drifting in the air, according to Live Science. The result is one or more patches of bright light located around the sun.

At sea, objects in the distance may appear to be floating above the horizon.

Fata Morgana (mirage) of coastline with wind turbines on it Asmus Koefoed/Shutterstock

A Fata Morgana is a complex, rapidly changing form of a superior mirage, an optical phenomenon that is created when light bends as it passes through a layer of air that is warmer than the layer below it, according to SKYbrary.

Made up of several inverted and upright images stacked on top of each other, Fata Morganas appear as warped, often unrecognizable, objects or shapes that seem to float above the horizon.

Similarly, it's easy to mistake simple mirages for bodies of water in the desert.

That's not a lake in the distance. loskutnikov/Shutterstock

Compared to Fata Morganas, inferior mirages are created when air near the ocean or Earth's surface is much warmer than the air above it, according to the American Meteorological Society. Light passing through these layers of air bends, producing an inverted, displaced mirage of an object (for example, a distant mountain range or the blue sky) that appears below the object itself.

On hot days, roads sometimes appear like they're wet.

It's all an illusion. Artesia Wells/Shutterstock

This phenomenon is another example of an inferior mirage. Like sand in the desert, roads hold onto heat and warm up the air directly above it. Your brain then mistakenly perceives an inferior mirage of the sky as water on the ground reflecting light.

Although half man-made, this illusion is completed by nature  a German bridge creates a perfect circle when reflected in the river below.

Rakotzbrucke, or Devil's Bridge, in Germany. Petr Svarc/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Rakotzbrucke in Kromlau, Germany, was built in 1860 and has earned the name "devil's bridge" among locals, as such bridges were so dangerous or miraculous they were said to be built by Satan, according to Atlas Obscura. It was built purposefully as half a circle so that when the waters are still and the light is just right, it will form a perfect circle with its reflection.

This may look like a surrealist painting, but it's actually a photo of Deadvlei in Namibia.

These are real trees. Anna Morgan/Shutterstock

Located inside Namib-Naukluft National Park, Deadvlei is a claypan dotted with many long-dead camel thorn trees, which have not yet decayed due to the area's dry climate, according to the Sossusvlei official website.

The barren landscape, once flooded with water from the nearby Tsauchab River, is now a hot spot for photographers  many of whom have captured the contrast between the claypan's bleached white floor and sun-scorched trees, as reported by National Geographic.

Pictures like the one above are typically taken from a very low angle, so that the sand dunes in the distance, tinted orange by the sun, look like a painted backdrop.

The undulating patterns in this rock formation throw off your depth perception.

It's a popular spot for hikers and photographers. Vyshnivskyy/Shutterstock

This unique rock formation is known as The Wave. It's located in Arizona, in the Coyote Buttes North area in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. To see this stunning sight in person, however, you'll need to enter a lottery system to get a permit four months in advance, according to the US Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management website.

These colorful columns aren't actually vertical beams of light.

The pillars do not physically exist, but you might think so by looking at them. T Oli_B/Shutterstock

A light pillar is a phenomenon where columns of light appear as if they are beaming directly upwards, sometimes visible during very cold weather. What you're actually seeing is artificial light from a source on the ground reflecting off millions of tiny ice crystals at different heights in the atmosphere, creating an elongated, columned light source, The New York Times reported.

The green flash occurs when two phenomena merge: a mirage and the dispersion of sunlight.

A green flash appears behind the sun. Yrii Kurygin/Shutterstock

The green flash is a phenomenon that can only be seen either right before sunrise or after sunset when the sun is almost entirely below the horizon. The optical illusion occurs when the upper edge of the sun is still visible, and the upper rim will appear green or even blue in color, according to the American Association For The Advancement Of Science, for just a few short seconds.

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San Bernardino County prosecutors have charged an 18-year-old man in the fatal shooting of a Marine during an alleged attempted carjacking in Twentynine Palms and the alleged attempted murder of two other people. (Eric Thayer / For The Times)

San Bernardino County prosecutors charged an 18-year-old man this week in the fatal shooting of a U.S. Marine in Twentynine Palms and the alleged attempted murder of two other people, authorities said.

Rudy Garcia Jr. is accused of killing 35-year-old Robert James McDonald on Monday night while he sat in his car with his dog, the Sheriff's Department said in a news release. McDonald was an active-duty gunnery sergeant stationed with the Marine Corps Logistic Operations Group in Twentynine Palms, according to the district attorney's office.

Sheriff's deputies responded shortly before 8 p.m. to reports of a group of four or five people causing a disturbance near the intersection of Old Dale Road and Alpine Avenue, authorities said. Initially, a neighbor tried to speak with the group, but some of the individuals became hostile.

Not long after the exchange, one of the suspects, who was later identified as Garcia, fired several rounds from a gun toward the neighbor and another individual, authorities said. Neither was hit, authorities said, and Garcia ran toward Knott Sky Park on El Sol Avenue.

The other people who were with Garcia went in a different direction and were not seen again, according to authorities. But Garcia then approached McDonald, who was sitting in his car near a dog park on Foothill Drive, and fired his gun without warning at the vehicle during what authorities said was an attempted carjacking. McDonald was struck multiple times and tried to drive away but lost control and crashed into another vehicle, authorities said.

Sheriff's deputies arrived on the scene and provided medical assistance to McDonald, but he died at the scene, according to authorities. The people who were in the other car sustained minor injuries.

Garcia ran away but was located by sheriff's deputies near the scene of the shooting a short time later and was taken into custody. A handgun believed to have been used in the shooting was also found in the area, according to the Sheriff's Department.

The district attorney's office charged Garcia with murder, attempted carjacking, attempted second-degree robbery, two counts of premeditated attempted murder and two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. Other special allegations have also been filed in the case, prosecutors said.

Anyone with information about this case can contact Det. Shawn Thurman at (909) 890-4904. Anonymous tips can be made at (800) 78CRIME or wetip.com.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A motorcyclist was sent to the hospital Friday after a crash in Mission Valley, authorities said.

According to the San Diego Police Department, a 19-year-old man was riding a 2015 Honda PGM-FI motorcycle in the 1400 block of Camino De Rio South around 8 a.m.

DUI checkpoint to be held in Poway Friday

At that same time, a 46-year-old woman driving a 2023 Mazda CX-30 attempted to merge onto the roadway from a driveway, pulling in front of the motorcyclist, police explained. The rider had to stop abruptly as a result and was ejected from the motorcycle.

The man was transported to a local hospital to be treated for an open fracture to his right ankle and arm, as well as a fracture to his left lower leg and a significant laceration to the left thigh. His injuries are not considered life-threatening.

SDPDs Traffic Unit responded and will be handling the investigation. Anyone with information related to the above incident is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
EASTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  Two men from Illinois have been charged after scamming a woman in Easton Township, deputies say.

On May 17, deputies with the Ionia County Sheriffs Office began investigating wire fraud involving a 72-year-old Easton Township woman.

The sheriffs office said the scam started when the womans computer locked out on May 8 with a phone number for technical support. When she called the number, the other person on the phone said they were from the Federal Trade Commission and her accounts had been compromised in an identity theft in a different state.

She was told that her money wasnt safe in the bank and that the so-called FTC would be sending federal agents to her home to pick up the money. The sheriffs office said the people posing as federal agents picked up over $40,000 from the woman on May 9 at her home.

A week later, the woman got another call saying asking for more money to be given to them for safekeeping, the sheriffs office said. That is when a relative got involved and contacted law enforcement.

The sheriffs office said that the scammers were planning on sending additional people to the womans home to pick up what they thought was an additional box of money.

These scam artists are really good, and even provided her with the type and color of car that was to arrive at her home to pick up that money to make things seem more official, the sheriffs office said in a release.

When the vehicle arrived in the area, a deputy stopped the vehicle and arrested two people from Illinois, the sheriffs office said.

Neither had a good or valid reason to be in Ionia County, MI, the sheriffs office said in a release.

While being questioned by investigators, the sheriffs office said one person admitted that they were part of a larger fraud ring that was being paid to pick up boxes of money from victims. Evidence on their phones also linked them to the womans address.

The sheriffs office said that investigators have learned that the people who spoke with the woman on the phone were based overseas and that they used various anonymity apps to hide their identities and call spoofing to make it seem like it was the FTC.

A May 2024 booking photo of 25-year-old Jainav Sanjaykumar Patel of Carbondale, Ill. (Courtesy)

A May 2024 booking photo of 27-year-old Alonzo Lee Waheed Jr. of Marion, Ill. (Courtesy)

On Monday, 25-year-old Jainav Sanjaykumar Patel of Carbondale, Illinois, and 27-year-old Alonzo Lee Waheed Jr. of Marion, Illinois, were each charged with conspiracy to commit false pretenses  $20,000 or more but less than $50,000. Additional charges are likely, the sheriffs office said.

Their bond was set at $25,000 each.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Atlanta police are investigating a shooting that left two men injured.

APD confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that two men were shot on 8th Street Northwest.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The two men were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The cause of the shooting is still under investigation.

At this time, police believe it may have been the result of a fight between the two.

TRENDING STORIES:

Channel 2 Action News reached out to Georgia Tech and Atlanta police for more information and we are waiting to hear back.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
2 men will go on trial for allegedly helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in UK

Chung Biu Yuen leaves The Old Bailey in London, Friday, May 24, 2024. Two men appeared in court Friday charged under the National Security Act with assisting the Hong Kong intelligence service and foreign interference. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

LONDON (AP)  The office manager of the Hong Kong trade office in London and another man will go on trial in February for allegedly helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the U.K. a judge said Friday.

Chung Biu Yuen, 63, and Chi Leung Peter Wai, 38, appeared at Londons Central Criminal Court for a preliminary hearing, charged with agreeing to undertake information gathering, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely to materially assist a foreign intelligence service between December 2023 and May 2.

Hong Kong authorities have confirmed that Yuen was the office manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London.

A third suspect, 37-year-old Briton Matthew Trickett, was also charged in the case, but he was found dead Sunday in a park under what police said were unexplained circumstances.

Prosecutor Kashif Malik said during an earlier hearing that Trickett, reportedly a U.K. immigration enforcement officer and a former Royal Marine, had attempted suicide after being charged. He was also the director of a security company.

Police said in an updated statement Friday that a coroner has completed a post-mortem and his death is not being treated as suspicious.

Justice Jeremy Baker set a trial date for Feb. 10, set to last for about five weeks. The judge said the men were granted bail on condition that they observe a set curfew and other restrictions.

The three men were charged under Britains National Security Act after an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command. Prosecutors allege that the suspects also forced entry into a U.K. residential address.

They were arrested earlier this month in London and Yorkshire in northern England by counterterrorism police, using provisions of a new law that allows suspects in national security and espionage cases to be detained without warrant.

The case drew strong criticism from officials in Beijing and Hong Kong, a former British colony that returned to Chinese control in 1997.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Friday that the charges were an act of political manipulation in the name of national security.

It seriously infringed on the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals in the U.K., gravely undermined China-U.K. relations, seriously violated the principles of international law and the basic norms of international relations and badly harmed the image of the U.K., he told reporters.

In Hong Kong, a government spokesman said the city's Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau, met with Britain's deputy consul-general in Hong Kong on Thursday to reiterate concerns about the case.

Yau urged British authorities to handle the matter fairly and ensure the normal operation of the Hong Kong trade office in London.

All of the Hong Kong trade office's activities have been conducted in accordance with the law, the city's government added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. It is envisaged to return 12,000 people to their homes in Lachin by the end of 2026, Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Lachin region Masim Mammadov said, Trend reports.

He made the remark during the presentation ceremony held in connection with COP29 within the framework of the Lachin Climate Action Dialogue.

Mammadov noted that, as a result of the Armenian occupation, all infrastructure in the region was destroyed.

"In many places in Lachin, anti-tank and anti-personnel mines have been buried, which led to the deaths of civilians. The Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan continues demining works in Lachin and adjacent territories," Mammadov said.

Underscoring that Lachin is one of the most beautiful cities in Azerbaijan, he said that more than 700 houses and residential complexes have been rebuilt in Lachin since September 2023.

"We are proud that Lachin has become one of the most beautiful cities in Azerbaijan," Mammadov said.

The Special Representative of the President noted that a year ago, the first group of former IDPs returned to Lachin, and President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev handed them keys to new houses.

"Today, 730 families - 2,766 people - have returned to Lachin district. All conditions for former IDPs have been quickly created in Lachin city, Zabukh, and Sus villages. We expect to return 12,000 people to their homes by the end of 2026," he said.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Even in deep-Blue Rhode Island, there are warning signs for President Joe Biden's reelection.

Former President Donald Trump is deeply unpopular in the Ocean State - and more than half of likely Rhode Island voters plan to vote for Biden in November.

But 57% disapprove of Biden's performance as president, particularly his handling of immigration, foreign policy and support of Israel, according to a newly released poll by the University of New Hampshire survey center.

Two-thirds of Rhode Islanders support demonstrators on campuses carrying out strikes or walkouts.

But they find it unacceptable to put up tents (53%), occupy buildings (66%), or state that Israel has no right to exist (76%).

The survey was conducted online between May 16-24 of 538 likely Rhode Island general election voters and 627 potential voters overall.

The margin of error was plus or minus 4.2% for the likely voter sample. By way of comparison, Democrat Biden beat Trump 59.4% to 38.6% in Rhode Island in 2020.

Former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden are heading toward a rematch in 2024.

Other poll findings:

If the election were held today : 52% would vote for Biden, 33% for former President Donald Trump, 6% for Independent Robert F. Kennedy and 2% or less were for a lesser known or another unspecified candidate.

5% of respondents were unsure

Those who identified temselves as "unaffiliated voters" - R.I.'s largest voting bloc - voters favored Trump (44%) over Biden (30%) and RFK (11%).

62% overall have an unfavorable opinion of Trump but almost all self-described conservatives favored him

93% of self-described liberals and 91% of progressives favored Biden

Kennedy draws support from self-described socialists (18%) and libertarians (13%)

Women prefer Biden: More than two-thirds of women in Rhode Island support Biden, only 34% of men.

Trump leads in one age group: Trump has a slight lead in voters 35-49 years old,

Biden leads in all other age groups: Biden leads in every other age group

Support split down education levels: Biden leads in every education level except those with a high school education or less, who favor Trump.

Most believe Trump is guilty: Nearly-two thirds believe Trump is guilty in the "hush money case playing out in New York, where he has been accused of falsifying business records to pay a porn star Stormy Daniels for her silence in the run up to the 2016 election, though an overwhelming number of Republicans  who make up a small slice of the Rhode Island  disagree .

Among those who do not support Trump , 91% believe a Trump victory would be a threat to American Democracy.

Conversely , 79% of those who oppose Biden view his potential win as the threat to Democracy.

Support of Israel-Hamas War protests: Rhode Islanders generally support demonstrators on campuses carrying out strikes or walkouts in protest of Israeli conduct in the current war in Gaza (65%), but think it is unacceptable to put up tents, occupy buildings, or state that Israel has no right to exist.

Breaking it down further: 51% believe the students and public have the right to set up encampments on campus, as long as the protests remain peaceful, but 47% believe university officials have the right to remove the encampments by force if necessary.

Questions about the economy:

The UNH Survey Center released a second set of questions about consumer confidence and Bidens handling of the economy on Friday.

Among the top findings:

State of their finances: "Nearly half of Rhode Island residents say that they are worse o nancially than a year ago and a majority think now is a bad time to buy a major household item."

State of the national economy, by party: Republicans and those calling themselves Independents "are far more negative than Democrats about their personal nances, the state economy, and the national economy and the majority disapprove of how President Biden in handling the economy."

Rhode Island's economy: "Rhode Islanders are somewhat positive about the states economy in the coming year."

What can Biden do to improve the economy?: "Rhode Islanders most often mention reducing ination or raising taxes on the wealthy or corporations."

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: UNH 2024 election poll shows how RI feels about Biden, Trump
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (FCFRS) was at the scene of a serious crash in Damascus late Thursday night.

The crash happened at around 11 p.m. on Gue Road between Ridge Road and Long Corner Road. A car had collided with a tree, trapping one person in the car.

Pedestrian killed in early morning Huntington crash

(Pete Piringer/Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service)

Three men were evaluated at the scene by paramedics and taken to the hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. A Maryland State Police Medevac helicopter flew one person to Baltimores Shock Trauma Center.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
3 killed in Rancho Cordova shooting identified. Man shot parents, then was shot by SWAT deputies

The Sacramento County Sheriffs Office on Friday identified three family members who died in Rancho Cordova on Thursday after a man fatally shot his elderly parents and was then shot and killed by deputies after a standoff.

A woman called dispatchers about 1:15 a.m. Thursday screaming she had been shot in the 3300 block of Hartselle Way, sheriffs officials said.

Sacramento County sheriffs deputies and Rancho Cordova police officers arrived to the home and found the woman, identified as 69-year-old Marylou Konvalin, suffering from bullet wounds and lying outside the front door. She was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Her son, Thomas Konvalin, 38, stood in the doorway and refused to leave, sparking a three-hour long standoff as he failed to speak with negotiators, according to a Friday news release from the Sheriffs Office.

Deputies believed a second a victim was inside the home and called for additional help. Several Sacramento County sheriffs units, including critical incident negotiators and K-9s, arrived at the scene.

At about 4:15 a.m., sheriffs deputies approached the home with a Rook armored vehicle. Konvalin left the home through a back window, holding a rifle, when two SWAT deputies shot him three times, the news release said. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Konvalins father, William Konvalin, 72, was found in the home and pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation into the incident is still ongoing. The deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, the news release said.

Sheriffs Office homicide detectives will conduct an investigation to determine whether the deputies who shot and killed the gunman complied with department policy. The Sacramento County District Attorneys Office will also investigate the incident, which is standard practice.
Three more Israeli hostages bodies were recovered from Gaza, according to a Friday announcement from Israel.

The Israeli military said Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum and Orion Hernandez were killed during the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel that left approximately 1,200 people dead.

All three hostages were abducted to the Gaza Strip by Hamas, according to a Friday post on the social platform X.

All three of the bodies were rescued during a joint Israeli military and intelligence operation in Jabalia, a city in the northern part of Gaza. The bodies were found overnight and were brought back to Israel, according to the military.

We will continue operating to bring all of our hostages back home, the military said Friday. May their memory be a blessing.

Israel launched a military operation in Jabalia two weeks ago.

The development comes less than a week after Israel said the bodies of three other hostages were found.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that his country has a national and moral duty to return all of the hostages. Israel said about 100 of the 250 hostages taken on Oct. 7 are still being kept in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu, who is dealing with domestic pressure to leave his post as the war has dragged on for more than seven months, has vowed to eradicate Hamas and bring back all of the hostages.

The U.S., one of Israels closest allies, has warned Netanyahu of diminishing support for the countrys military operation in Gaza. At least 35,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed during the war, according to officials with the Hamas-run health ministry.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
3-Year-Old Son of Rodeo Star Wakes Up After Riding Toy Tractor into River: 'My Baby Is So Tough,' Mom Says

"We don't know much but the doctor said it was okay for me to get excited," Levi Wright's mom said in an update

John Pyle/Shutterstock Spencer Wright

The 3-year-old son of rodeo star Spencer Wright, who was in critical condition after driving his toy tractor into a Utah river, has woken up.

"LEVI WOKE UP! I am shook, we don't know much but the doctor said it was okay for me to get excited about that and I AM! My baby is so tough!," Wright's wife, Kallie, wrote in a Facebook post just after midnight local time on Friday, May 24.

"He got a little wild so we had to settle him down again but my heart!" she added.

The update came days after the Beaver County Sheriff's Office got a call about the incident on Tuesday, May 21, at approximately 6 p.m. local time, per a statement shared on Facebook.

After authorities responded, Levi was quickly located and "life saving measures were administered on scene," police said. He was then transported to Beaver Valley Hospital, and later airlifted to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City.

Related: 12-Year-Old Child Dies After Colliding with a Tree in Ski Accident at Resort

Wright family friend and spokesperson, Mindy Sue Clark, who has been sharing updates on the boy's health on Facebook, also celebrated the good news.

"MIRACLES!!!!!!!!," she wrote in one message early in the morning of May 24. "ETA - because people have been asking for clarification, he opened his eyes and tried to lift his head. The nurse was in the room and they were telling him how much he loves excavators, and wouldnt you know it, there he was!"



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In another May 24 update, Clark said, "I am in awe of Gods work, and how tough Levi is! These are nothing short of miracles! What an amazing gift to witness this in real time. Youve got this buddy!!"

Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images Spencer Wright

In a previous update, loved ones said that Levis heart was beating on its own, but there was concern as his sweet little brain was without oxygen [for] too long.

"We cuddled him all night and feel strongly that his spirit is no longer with us," the post continued, explaining that unless there were any changes, the family would likely have to "stop care and hold him close until his last breath on earth."

However, throughout the ordeal, the family held out hope.

"I do want you to know that we have received multiple small miracles along the way and doctors are certainly surprised by the strides he has made," read an update on Clark's page from his mom posted on Wednesday, May 22.

"We don't know what the future holds, please don't let prayers for my baby dim or his story become old news! Keep praying for him," Kallie added.

Related: 6-Year-Old Boy Shot and Killed in Hunting Accident: 'He Will Never Be Forgotten,' Says Dad

Spencer Wright was ranked 35th in the world in 2023 by ProRodeo and was the World Champion in 2014.

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DENVER (KDVR)  Three suspects are on the loose after several alleged carjackings took place near the Castle Rock outlet mall.

The Castle Rock Police Department told FOX31 they were alerted to a stolen vehicle that entered town limits on Thursday at around 1:30 p.m. The departments stationary license plate reader alerted officers to the car.

The three people inside the stolen car went to the Outlets at Castle Rock where police said they committed a theft at one of the stores.

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Once officers and a security guard responded to the scene, two of the suspects fled on foot. The third suspect allegedly stole a car and escaped to a nearby apartment complex, Castle Rock police said.

Officers said the two suspects who fled on foot allegedly carjacked another victim. The victim was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

The two suspects then fled northbound on Interstate 25. Officers who were driving east on E-470 were able to locate the duo and initiate a pursuit. However, the suspects exited at Smoky Hill Road and officers ended the pursuit because they said it felt unsafe to continue as the suspects were driving fast through heavy lanes of traffic.

Castle Rock police said all three suspects are still outstanding. Descriptions are not available at this time, but this story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
SANTA ROSA COUNTY, Fla. (WKRG)  Three women were arrested after they attacked a man and kidnapped a 6-year-old family member, according to a Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office arrest report.

46-year-old Mildred Dianne Champion, 44-year-old Yolanda Arnett Champion, and 19-year-old Ocean Monet English were arrested on Tuesday by the Pensacola Police Department on charges of burglary with assault or battery and kidnapping  inflict bodily harm or terrorize victim or other.

Crestview man arrested after narcotics investigation found over half-pound of meth: WCSO

The arrest report for 19-year-old English said Santa Rosa County deputies were called to a home on Wooded Way on May 16 for a cutting complaint.

According to the report, deputies arrived and spoke with a resident who said he first heard a knock on the door, followed by his 6-year-old stepson answering the door.

Thats allegedly when the women entered the home without permission. The man then allegedly saw Mildred forcing the boy to exit the home by pulling on his arm.

The arrest report said the man tried stopping the women from taking the boy, but they started pulling his hair, punching him and scratching him while inside the home.

Mugshots of Ocean English (left), Mildred Champion (middle) and Yolanda Champion (right). (Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office)

The fight then led to the front yard, where a neighbor saw and pulled the three women off the man, according to the report. The women were then allegedly able to take the boy and leave.

Deputies talked with the guardian of the boy, who said she was called by the man and told that her mother, aunt, and cousin had attacked him and taken the boy, according to the report.

She allegedly told deputies she was the sole legal guardian of the boy, and no one other than the stepdad had permission to keep him.

There are no active court orders for child custody, read the report.

Milton woman dies in Santa Rosa County car crash: FHP

The report also said deputies spoke with the neighbor who helped the man during the fight. He reportedly corroborated the mans story.

Officers with the Pensacola Police Department were able to locate the women and boy and took the women into custody.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
MANHATTAN (KSNT)  Police in northeast Kansas are asking for help from the public in finding the individual behind a recent theft from a Manhattan vault.

The Riley County Police Department (RCPD) announced in a recent crime overview that a theft was reported around 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 23 in the 800 block of Poyntz Avenue. Police investigating the situation listed an 87-year-old woman as the victim of the crime.

The woman told police a Holland & Holland Rifle worth $32,000 was stolen from a vault where it was being stored. Police ask anyone with information related to this theft to contact Manhattan-Riley County Crime Stoppers to submit anonymous tips by going online or calling 785-539-7777.

These cars and trucks are thieves biggest targets in Kansas

Holland & Holland is listed as a British firearm company active since 1835. Guns sold by this company can range from around $10,000 to more than $120,000. Learn more about the company 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.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
An Arkansas couple who fell ill after eating at the Hereford House in Leawood are the latest customers to sue the restaurant, contending it was negligent and should be held liable for serving contaminated food to customers.

Blair and Dawn Hawkins filed the lawsuit Thursday in Johnson County District Court against the Hereford House Restaurant Company of Kansas Inc.

The lawsuit is the third one to be filed against the Hereford House since the Johnson County District Attorney in late April charged 21-year-old Jace Christian Hanson of Kansas City with one felony count of unlawfully adulterating or contaminating food while working at the restaurant at 5001 Town Center Drive in Leawoods Town Center Plaza.

Hanson allegedly posted videos on a website under the username of Vandalizer that showed a man urinating in restaurant-style food bins and rubbing food on his genitals and buttocks, according to court documents.

Court documents allege the crime occurred between March 26 and April 25, but the Hereford House narrowed the timeline to April 6 and 23, based on Hansons statement to police.

Hanson allegedly told detectives that he contaminated food in more than 20 incidents.

The Hawkinses contend they ate at the Hereford House in Leawood around 6:30 p.m. on April 24. The following morning, Blair Hawkins fell ill and began vomiting and having diarrhea. That afternoon, Dawn Hawkins experienced nausea and had cramps. Both of their illnesses were consistent with food poisoning.

They contend that after becoming aware of the alleged contamination of food, they have suffered additional emotional and psychological distress. They continue to fear the possibility of future illness due to eating contaminated food.

The lawsuit is similar to those filed by Chad Christopher of Clay County and McHarlan and Barbara Bishop of Jackson County, who claim they fell ill after eating at the restaurant. The lawsuits claims Hereford House was negligent and breached an implied warranty that their food would be safe. The lawsuits also contain a strict liability claim alleging the contaminated food is a defective product.

Hanson seeks to be released from jail

A tip to the Federal Bureau of Investigation led to the discovery of the alleged crime. A special agent allegedly tied the videos posted online to Hansons cellphone.

Leawood detectives went to the restaurant on April 25 and spoke with a manager. They then asked Hanson, who was working at the restaurant, if he was aware of any food contamination.

Ill just be straight up, yeah, Hanson said, according to the affidavit. He added that hed just been doing stupid s--t.

Hanson was arrested that afternoon and booked into Johnson County jail, where he is currently being held on $100,000 bond.

On Thursday, Hansons attorney filed a motion asking that Hansons bond be modified so that he would be released on his own recognizance or be granted a substantial reduction in the bond. Hansons current bond is excessive for the crimes charged, his lack of criminal history and the absence of evidence that he is a flight risk, according to the filing.

If released, Hanson would live with his mother near Casper, Wyoming, and would enroll in mental health treatment and follow the therapist or psychiatrists recommendations, according to the motion. Hanson is agreeable to house arrest or an electronic monitor.

If released without posting bail, Hanson and his attorney promise to appear at all court appearances as ordered by the judge.

Hansons next scheduled court appearance is set for June 6.
Nearly two dozen people are reportedly being treated in the intensive care unit at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital following the in-air incident on Tuesday

LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Officials enter the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER airplane that was traveling from London to Singapore when it landed in Bangkok due to severe turbulence

Singapore Airlines says 46 people remain hospitalized after one of its planes hit severe turbulence mid-flight, leaving one person dead.

Two crew members and 44 passengers are still receiving medical treatment in Bangkok following the in-air incident on Tuesday, May 21, according to the airline's Facebook page.

Twenty people were placed in the intensive care unit at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, according to The Independent.

Hospital director Adinun Kittiratanapaibool said that number has remained unchanged, though none of the cases appear to be life-threatening.

Related: 7 People Taken to the Hospital Following 'Severe Turbulence' on United Flight from Tel Aviv to New Jersey

Of the victims still hospitalized, 22 have spinal cord injuries, while six others have brain and skull injuries, Kittiratanapaibool explained.

CEO Goh Choon Phong met with affected passengers, crew and their loved ones in Bangkok on Thursday to personally offer his support and to understand their concerns.

The well-being of our passengers and crew members remains our priority, Phong said in a statement shared on Facebook the same day. I have given them my personal assurance that we will take care of them during this difficult time.

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Singapore Airlines says employees have facilitated travel to Bangkok for their families and loved ones as requested.

The ill-fated flight was carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members from Londons Heathrow Airport to Singapore in a Boeing 777 when it encountered turbulence, according to a previous statement shared on Facebook by Singapore Airlines.

Geoffrey Kitchen, a 73-year-old grandfather, died of a suspected heart attack following the incident.

Related: Extreme Turbulence Caused Passengers to Be Thrown Against Ceiling of Emirates Flight: It Felt Like the End

Josh Silverstone, a 24-year-old from south London, told The Independent he was among those hospitalized following the flight. He sustained a cut on his eye and a chipped tooth while traveling to Bali.

I woke up on the floor, I didnt realize what happened, I mustve hit my head somewhere, recalled Silverstone, who has since been discharged. There were people laying out on the floor.

Singapore Airlines is implementing new safety measures in the wake of the incident, including the suspension of meal service and hot beverage service during times when the seat-belt sign is on," per ABC News.

Crew members will also return to their seats and secure their seat belts when the seat-belt sign is on, the airline said, according to the publication.



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GAZAKH, Azerbaijan, May 24. After border delimitation, a 12.7-kilometer borderline was established, ensuring the return of 4 villages in the Gazakh region to Azerbaijan, which are: Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili (6.5 square kilometers), Trend reports.

Today, as a result, the territories of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili of the Gazakh district of the Republic of Azerbaijan were taken under the control of the State Border Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Military servicemen of the State Border Service (SBS) raised the State Flag of Azerbaijan in 4 villages of Gazakh liberated after 34 years without a single shot.

Trend's special correspondent photographed and filmed four Gazakh villages that were liberated 34 years later without a shot.

To note, the Protocol of the 8th meeting of the State Commission on Delimitation of the State Border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia and the Commission of the Republic of Armenia on Delimitation of the State Border and Border Security between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan was signed on April 19, 2024, to ensure the liberation of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili villages of Gazakh district of the Republic of Azerbaijan from occupation.

In order to fulfill the provisions of the mentioned protocol, the coordinates of the boundary line were clarified based on geodetic measurements on the ground, and a technical protocol on the results of joint field works was drawn up, reflecting the protocol description of the passage of the respective boundary line.

The 9th next meeting of the Commissions was held on May 15, 2024, on the border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia. The mentioned technical protocol was agreed upon, and the corresponding protocol of the commissions was signed.

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Five people were killed and another wounded on Thursday in an armed attack in Mexico's Acapulco, a prosecutor's office said, just three days after 10 other bodies were found in the resort city plagued by cartel violence.

The latest attack occurred at a grocery store located in a handicrafts market near the main tourist avenue of the famous Pacific coastal city.

The prosecutor's office in Guerrero state, where Acapulco is located, said in a statement that it was investigating the attack which left four men and a woman dead, and another person wounded.

National Guard members stand guard as investigators from the prosecutor's office, state police, and forensic personnel work at a crime scene where five people were murdered in Acapulco, Guerrero State, Mexico, on May 23, 2024. / Credit: FRANCISCO ROBLES/AFP via Getty Images

Authorities on Tuesday said 10 bodies were found scattered around the once-glamorous resort city, which has been engulfed by violence linked to organized crime.

Six of the bodies were left Monday night on an avenue near a market, according to the local public security office.

Media in the city reported the bodies had been thrown from a car.

A shooting in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood left three others dead, and another person was shot dead in the tourist part of the city.

Recent violence in Acapulco

Acapulco was once a playground for the rich and famous, but it has lost its luster in the last decade as foreign tourists have been spooked by bloodshed that has made it one of the world's most violent cities.

Last month, the head of Acapulco's traffic police was shot to death when assailants opened fire on him on a street relatively far away from the resort's beaches.

In February, the strangled bodies of two men were found on the popular Condesa beach in Acapulco. Prosecutors said the men's bodies bore signs of "torture by ligature" with "signs of torture around the neck."

Around that same time, at least three people were shot dead on beaches in Acapulco, one by gunmen who arrived - and escaped - aboard a boat.

The city is also still struggling to recover after being hit by Category 5 Hurricane Otis in October. Otis left at least 52 dead and destroyed or damaged most hotels.

Guerrero state is one of the worst affected by drug trafficking in Mexico. Disputes between cartels led to 1,890 murders in the state in 2023. Guerrero is among six states in Mexico that the U.S. State Department advises Americans to completely avoid, citing crime and violence.

Spiraling criminal violence has seen more than 450,000 people murdered in the country since the government of then-president Felipe Calderon launched a military offensive against drug cartels in 2006.

Criminal gangs are involved not just in drug trafficking but other illegal activities including people smuggling, extortion and fuel theft.

Mexico has also been recently plagued by a wave of political violence ahead of the June 2 elections. More than two dozen politicians have been killed since September last year, according to the NGO Data Civica -- including one mayoral hopeful who was shot dead last month just as she began campaigning.

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Five suspects were arrested in a drive-by shooting on May 1 that injured six people in the Las Vegas Trail neighborhood in west Fort Worth, police said in a news release Thursday.

Each suspect is charged with six counts of aggravated assault causing bodily harm-discharge of a firearm from a vehicle, and one count of deadly conduct discharge firearm at a habitation.

The suspects are identified as:

Jamal Piper, 17, of Fort Worth

Hayden Bates-Vellmure, 18, of Fort Worth

Jordan Elijah Jackson, 20, of Fort Worth

Allan Gilbert, 18, of Dallas

Patrick Biscoe, 19, of Dallas

Piper and Bates-Vellmure were taken into custody in Fort Worth, Jackson in Bedford, Gilbert in Desoto, and Biscoe in Dallas.

Detectives believe the incident was a targeted shooting aimed at an individual who lived near theMiramar apartments in the 3000 block of Las Vegas Trail  where the shooting occurred.

The six people wounded ranged in age from 3 to 19.

Officers utilized information from witnesses and surveillance video to identify of the suspects, according to the release.
Lost for 17 days in a Hawaii forest reserve, most of it with a broken leg and burns to her feet so severe they almost required amputation, Amanda Eller held out hope someone was coming to rescue her.

Now, five years after her dramatic rescue from Maui's Makawao Forest Reserve, Eller told ABC News she's continuing to heal from what was a traumatic, life-changing experience.

"Nothing has been the same since," Eller, 40, said. "Something like that, it changes your whole life. There's no, like, going back to normal after that."

The physical therapist and yoga teacher set out on the hike on May 8, 2019, without a cellphone. She soon found herself disoriented after going off the trail in the more than 2,000-acre reserve, which is surrounded by more dense forest.

"I was trying to find my way out, and it got worse and worse and worse," she said.

MORE: Yoga teacher Amanda Eller after rescue from Hawaii forest: 'I chose life'

On day four of being lost in the forest, she said she fell 20 feet and broke the tibia in her left leg. Soon after, she lost her sneakers in a flash flood. She looked for berries and fruit to eat, like guava, and clear water to drink, though had limited survival skills, she said.

"There was a whole skill set that I wish I had that I didn't, but I just think it was my will and my faith that wouldn't let me give up," she said.

Unbeknownst to her, the case drew attention on social media and national news, and a search effort funded with the help of donations amassed more than a thousand volunteers.

She said she held out hope each day that people were looking for her and would listen for helicopters "constantly, it was my full-time job." Then, on day 17, one appeared right above as she was hobbling on her hands and one good leg looking for food near a waterfall. She was rescued by a helicopter on May 24, 2019.

PHOTO: In this image courtesy of Javier Cantellops, missing hiker Amanda Eller, center left, is seen with her rescuers Javier Cantellops, left, Troy Helmer, center right, and Chris Berquist, May 24, 2019, at Makawao Forest Reserve in Maui, Hawaii. (Javier Cantellops via Facebook/AmandaEllersMissing)

"I looked back as we were flying away and that area where I was at the top of the waterfall disappeared so quickly, and you couldn't make out heads or tails where I was," she said. "It was just a needle in a haystack situation of them finding me."

"It was truly a miracle," she said.

Eller was briefly hospitalized for her injuries, with hospital officials saying she suffered from severe burns in addition to a tibia fracture. She said she also lost 20 pounds, was dehydrated, had severe cellulitis "to the point where they thought they might have to amputate my feet" and was "scathed head to toe."

"There was not an inch of me that was not scratched or torn in some way because the jungle out there is brutal," she said.

During a news conference four days after her rescue, she called her journey of survival "extremely spiritual" and that it "was an opportunity to overcome fear of everything."

PHOTO: Rescued hiker Amanda Eller speaks during a press conference at Maui Memorial Hospital, May 28, 2019, in Wailuku, Hawaii. (Craig T. Kojima/AP)

Reflecting on that moment now, Eller said she was in rough shape physically, but was feeling good emotionally and spiritually after her experience in the forest.

"It really broke down some things that were preventing me from seeing light in life. And so I was in a very, like, lightened mindset," she said. "I told the whole truth and nothing but the truth."

Still, speculation and rumors spread regarding her experience, Eller said, from allegations that she was on drugs or got lost on purpose to gain money through GoFundMe.

"Anything you could think of that could possibly explain how I could come out of a 17-day experience like that and be in a positive state of mind," she said. "I think that people just created stories so that their mind could grasp the situation. But what happened from that, unfortunately, is eventually it started to take a toll on me."

MORE: Woman who survived 17 days in Hawaii forest: 'It was an opportunity to overcome fear of everything'

Eller said she left Maui about six months after her rescue and spent time with family before going to India for several months to undergo training to help process the trauma she experienced in the forest and after her rescue.

The Maryland native came back to the U.S. right before the COVID-19 pandemic and bounced around the West Coast before ending up back in Maui, which she thought would be a "wonderful reuniting" with a place that felt like home but ended up reopening old wounds.

"As soon as I landed, the trauma started to kick in on a deeper level, just exposure therapy and being close to where it occurred," she said. "I went through about two years, I'd say, of deep healing and really tough stuff. Just a very dark time."

She said she went through a mind-body therapy certification to help process her trauma and began seeing clients, teaching yoga again and socializing.

PHOTO: Amanda Eller is seen in a recent photo. (Courtesy of Amanda Eller)

She was in Maui during last year's devastating wildfires, and recently felt the need to leave the island again.

"What I noticed is there's a lot of people that had left the island afterward, and I just started feeling the call, too, that maybe I'm not meant to be here at this time," she said. "I believe certain people are there to help, and maybe that's not me."

Several weeks ago, she moved to Minneapolis, where someone she had been seeing long-distance lives.

"I feel like my nervous system is more stable here, and I wasn't meant to hold space for that healing process [in Maui]," she said.

Eller said her experience in the forest shifted her perspective and made her more accepting of change. In hindsight, she also realized she needed to go through that experience, however extreme, to make personal changes, she said.

"I never could have imagined that I would be experiencing this much happiness in life," she said. "I do believe that everything happens for a reason and I am grateful for the experience, even though I'm still healing from it."

Professionally, Eller said she works with clients to help them work through their own trauma through holistic physical therapy.

"Most of the people I work with feel stuck in some way, or they feel like they have something from the past that's just tormenting them," she said.

PHOTO: Amanda Eller is seen in the Makawao Forest Reserve in April 2024. (Courtesy of Amanda Eller)

She said she is still in touch with some of the people involved in the search effort for her, as is her family. Her father, an expert in GPS technology, used a software system to help track the search effort, which she said is believed to have helped find her. Following her rescue, he helped found a nonprofit that advises on search and rescue efforts, she said.

"That experience really touched them," she said. "They had never seen community come together like that. That's like a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience."

Eller said she revisited the Makawao Forest Reserve for the first time following her rescue as a form of exposure therapy around December 2020. Before leaving Maui, she revisited the forest as often as she could -- though would stick to the main trail and bring her phone, water and a hiking kit her dad created that included a whistle, blanket, glow stick and tips on what to do if you get lost.

"My peace is found in nature," she said. "I'm just a lot more careful than I was before."

5 years after dramatic rescue, hiker reflects on being lost in Hawaii forest for 17 days originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
GREEN BAY  Northeast Wisconsin Technical College received a grant of almost $600,000 from the U.S. Department of the Navy for a series of events at its Sturgeon Bay and Marinette campuses, called a "Welding Rodeo," to promote careers in that field and help attract much-needed new talent for the region's shipbuilding industry.

The Navys Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Education and Workforce Program awarded $579,181 to NWTC in response to what the school described in a press release as an "urgent demand for skilled shipbuilders."

A student works on a welding project at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College's Marinette campus. With a grant of almost $600,000 from the U.S. Department of the Navy, the school is launching a "Welding Rodeo" program to attract students to its Sturgeon Bay and Marinette campuses to learn the much-needed skills for the shipbuilding industry.

The release said northeastern Wisconsin is home to six of the Great Lakes eight shipbuilders, but those builders have a shortage of qualified workers and the demand for them will grow in coming years. Compared to the 296 vessels that exist today, the U.S. Navys 30-year plan proposes up to 404 manned and 204 large, unmanned vessels in its fleet.

Funds from the grant allow NWTC to launch by this fall the "Welding Rodeo: Experiences in STEM Education" program. Sponsored by the Navy's Office of Naval Research, it will include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) career fairs, hands-on welding workshops, welding competitions for every skill level and a metal sculpture contest with proceeds funding scholarships.

The rodeos are planned to be annual events at NWTC's campuses in Sturgeon Bay and Marinette, home to international shipbuilder Fincantieri's Bay Shipbuilding and Marinette Marine shipyards as well as other employers in the maritime industry. The college holds a longstanding partnership with Fincantieri Marinette Marine, offering tailored training at a dedicated shipyard facility, and recently expanded to provide specialized training for Bay Ship through the Sturgeon Bay campus.

To navigate the industrys evolving landscape, we need to anticipate and embrace the challenges ahead, NWTC vice president of college advancement Meridith Jaeger said in the press release. "The Welding Rodeo not only addresses the immediate demands of our growing maritime industry but also serves as a blueprint for other skilled trades to thrive, across our region and beyond. This initiative will not only bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, it forges new connections between communities and the maritime sector."

NWTC has collaborated closely with the maritime sector dating to World War II, offering tailored training to shipbuilders and working with workforce development to grow the industry. The college said in its press release it has played a critical role in the expansion of the shipbuilding workforce, training nearly 15,000 new hires and incumbent workers through its North Coast Marine Manufacturing Training Center.

As the maritime sector continues to grow, NWTC remains at the forefront of this expansion. Yet, to navigate the industrys evolving landscape, we need to anticipate and embrace the challenges ahead, Jaeger said.

More information will be announced by the school on the Welding Rodeo as it becomes available. For more information, visit nwtc.edu or follow its social media channels @NWTC.

Contact Christopher Clough at 920-562-8900 or cclough@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: NWTC plans Welding Rodeo to attract students to shipbuilding industry
Six Pro-Palestine protesters were booked into jail on Thursday after blocking an entrance to Cal Poly, and they could face misdemeanor and felony charges, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office booking log.

Police also cited and released two other protesters on Thursday, according to Cal Poly spokesperson Matt Lazier.

At about 7:30 a.m., a handful of protesters set up wooden barricades in the crosswalk of California Boulevard and Campus Way to protest Israels attacks on Gaza and to demand that Cal Poly divest from companies that support and profit from the war.

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office, the San Luis Obispo Police Department and Cal Poly police responded to the demonstration. At least 20 police vehicles were on the scene, and officers blocked vehicle traffic from entering the intersection. About 30 people had joined the protest by mid-morning, witnesses told The Tribune.

Police started arresting protesters at about 10:50 a.m., and the protesters and police had dispersed from the intersection by 11:50 a.m.

The San Luis Obispo County District Attorneys Office had not officially charged any of the protesters as of Friday morning.

Sheriffs deputies in riot helmets assemble as backup while detain eight pro-Palestine protesters who blocked the intersection at California Boulevard and Campus Way near Cal Poly on May 23, 2024.

What charges did police arrest the protesters for?

The San Luis Obispo Police Department arrested Mohamed Cheour, 25, on suspicion of two misdemeanors: obstructing movement in a public place and resisting arrest, according to the booking log.

The booking log also listed a felony charge for Cheour, for use of a riot to remove a person from police custody. His court date is scheduled for June 6.

Cheours bail was posted at $50,000 at 5:10 p.m. on Thursday, according to the SLO County Jails inmate lookup. By Friday morning, he was no longer in custody at the jail.

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office arrested Cal Poly chemistry professor Jay Charles Erker, 43, on suspicion of misdemeanor resisting arrest, the booking log said.

The Cal Poly Police Department arrested Alexis Barksdale, 24, and Theodore Lee, 21, on suspicion of misdemeanor obstruction of movement in a public area.

Lees bail was posted at $0 on Thursday at 5:10 p.m.

Cal Poly police also arrested Alejandro Bupara, 29, and Haley Pinney, 28, for remaining present at an unlawful assembly after being told by police to disperse, which is a misdemeanor.

Those five protesters have since been released from jail and are scheduled to appear in court on July 22.

Police also cited and released Henry Miller and Barbara Wildman, according to Lazier.
6 killed in Idaho crash were agricultural workers from Mexico, officials say

In this file photo provided by KIFI Local News 8, a pickup truck crashed into a passenger van on U.S. Highway 20, Saturday, May 18, 2024, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The six people killed when a pickup crashed into a passenger van in Idaho over the weekend were agricultural workers from Mexico, officials said. (Jeff Roper/KIFI Local News 8 via AP, File)

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho. (AP)  Six people killed when a pickup crashed into a passenger van in Idaho on Saturday were agricultural workers from Mexico, officials said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico said in a news release that the van passengers were all agricultural workers from Mexico who were in the U.S. on H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker visas, the East Idaho News reported Thursday.

The crash happened early on May 18 when a pickup crossed the centerline on U.S. Highway 20 and hit the van in Idaho Falls, according to Idaho State Police. The vans driver and five passengers died at the scene.

Bonneville County Coroner Rick Taylor identified the victims as Abel Mejia Martinez, 43, Pedro Manuel Alcantar Mejia, 26, Brandon Ponce Gallegos, 24, Jose Guadalupe Sanchez Medina, 20, Luis Enrique Sereno Perez, 32 and Javier Gomez Alcantar, 36.

Nine other passengers in the van and the pickups driver were hospitalized, police said.

Signet, the company that employed the workers, is collecting donations on GoFundMe and donated $10,000.

"Our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn the loss of six beloved members of our team who tragically lost their lives in a devastating car accident on May 18th in Idaho, the organizers wrote. Alongside this profound loss, nine of our colleagues were left with injuries, their lives forever changed by the events of this day.

The money raised will be donated to those who were hurt and to each family of those who died, the GoFundMe page said.

The company didn't immediately respond to a request from The Associate Press seeking comment on Thursday evening. It wasn't immediately clear whether Signet owned the van that crashed or whether the van had seat belts.

Signet has provided construction services for projects of all sizes since 1994 and has an agricultural division, according to the companys website.

The Mexican Consulate in Boise has said it will help the families of the deceased.

Earlier this month in Florida, a pickup truck crashed into a bus carrying farmworkers from Mexico, killing eight of the workers.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Seven of the eight inmates who attempted to incite a riot Tuesday evening, May 21 at the Otero County Detention Center (OCDC) have been identified, according to court documents obtained by KTSM.

8 Otero County Detention Center detainees charged after attempted riot

According to court documents, Pedro Feliciano, Fred Rebeles, Eric Amaya, Jaime Espinoza, Anthony Rodriguez, David Torres and Dominique Thomas were involved in the riot.

There was no information provided about the eighth inmate involved in the riot.

At approximately 7 p.m. May 21, the Alamogordo Police Department (APD) responded to the OCDC in reference to a riot.

Upon arrival, officers learned that Housing unit D3 was refusing to lock down. Officers also learned that there were eight inmates in the housing unit who armed themselves with weapons, according to court documents.

According to court documents, inmates broke a broom or mop handle to make weapons. They also used their bedding to hang on the railing of the top tier rooms to prevent officers from observing what they were doing.

Officers deployed pepper balls into the housing unit in an attempt to get the inmates to comply; however, the inmates stayed outside of their cells and didnt lock down.

According to court documents, a detention officer stated that the incident started over Feliciano receiving a write up for threatening medical staff.

The detention officer said that officers went to pick up the mop bucket in the housing unit and observed it was in Felicianos room.

Feliciano told detention officers to come get the mop bucket, in a threatening way as he appeared to be angry, according to court documents.

According to court documents, the detention officer was in a catwalk behind the housing unit to shut off the water and observed Rebeles with a broken broom stick with a sharpened end and inmate Thomas with a black stick sharpened to a point.

The detention officer also observed the inmates tearing up mattresses and towels to cover their bodies. Ortiz believed they were doing that to prevent the tasers from having any effect, according to court documents.

According to court documents, a detention corporal stated that Feliciano told him that he was going to start a riot. He also said he saw Thomas to have two weapons that were sharpened to a point.

Lieutenant Javier Sifuentes, who arrived after the riot started, said that Amaya was locked in his cell but could hear him telling the other inmates he did not mean to lock down and the door shut behind him, according to court documents.

Other detention officers reported to have seen Rebeles, Feliciano, Rodriguez and Espinoza with weapons sharpened to a point, according to court documents.

According to court documents, Rodriguez was also threatening officers to stab them in the neck if they entered the housing unit.

Officers learned that the inmates in the housing unit were walking down the stairs with their hands up. Officers went to the housing unit and told the inmates through the door they needed to lay down and place their hands behind their backs. Officers could hear the inmates yelling that were not laying on the ground, according to court documents.

According to court documents, officers went into the housing unit after the inmates were finally removed and collected five wooden objects sharpened to a point. Officers also located a mop handle broken off the mop head.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A scheme that cost Medicare and Medicaid nearly $2 million led to the conviction of a 75-year-old doctor who worked in Detroit but now lives in Las Vegas.

Dr. Eduardo Abellana was convicted on Wednesday by a federal grand jury of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States and receive kickbacks. He was accused of referring unnecessary prescriptions to a Detroit pharmacy for patients that he never treated. In exchange, Abellana received cash kickbacks from the owners of City Drugs, according to a news release from the U.S. Justice Department.

Documents in the case do not provide details on when Abellana relocated to Las Vegas and whether he has ever practiced medicine in Nevada.

Abellana is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 25, facing a maximum of 10 years in prison on the fraud count and five years on the kickbacks count.

The case was investigated by the FBIs Detroit Field Office and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
8 people taken to hospital after airboat crashes in Osceola County

Update:

Eight people were injured after an airboat crash in Osceola County on Friday, the U.S. Coast Guard said.

The Coast Guard said it received a report of the incident on Lake Tohopekaliga, and the Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Port Canaveral is investigating the cause.

The eight people who were injured were taken to the hospital.

Officials said they do not have any updates on their conditions, but there were no life-threatening injuries.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Osceola County Sheriffs Office also responded to the scene.

Previous story:

Eight people were taken to a hospital Friday morning after an airboat crash in Osceola County.

Firefighters were called to the St. Cloud Canal, which links Lake Tohopekaliga and East Lake Tohopekaliga.

An Osceola County Fire Rescue spokesman said the patients were receiving basic life support care.

Read: St. Cloud approves new plans for seaplane docking station along East Lake Toho

Eight people were taken to a hospital Friday morning after an airboat crash in Osceola County.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said the United States Coast Guard is investigating the crash because it involved a commercial airboat.

Watch live updates on Channel 9 Eyewitness News.

See a map of the scene below:

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
8 On Your Side blood drive: How you can donate blood ahead of Memorial Day weekend

8 On Your Side blood drive: How you can donate blood ahead of Memorial Day weekend

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  News Channel 8 has partnered with OneBlood and Culvers to make it easy for you to donate blood ahead of Memorial Day weekend.

Theres always a need for donors, but we are offering some extra perks this time around to roll up your sleeve and give blood.

Youll receive a wellness check that includes an iron count, blood pressure and cholesterol screening. Those who donate will also receive a water bottle, a $20 e-gift card and a free pint of Culvers custard.

The Big Red Bus will be parked in WFLAs guest parking lot on South Parker Street from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.

If youre not near the station, no problem! You can donate at more than a dozen Culvers locations throughout the area.

Listed below are the locations and hours of operation for each location.

6 a.m.-4 p.m. WFLA Channel 8 200 S. Parker Street Tampa 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Culvers  4th Street 9046 4th Street North St. Petersburg Noon-6 p.m. Culvers  Braden River 4714 East State Road 64 Bradenton 4 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Culvers  Brooksville 1065 S Broad Street Brooksville 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Culvers  Brooksville 12337 Cortez Blvd Brooksville Noon-5 p.m. Culvers  Citrus Park 8410 Citrus Park Drive Tampa Noon-6 p.m. Culvers  Cortez Road 3515 Cortez Road West Bradenton 11:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Culvers  East Brandon 548 E Brandon Blvd Brandon Noon-6 p.m. Culvers  Lakewood Ranch 13020 FL 64 Bradenton 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Culvers  Inverness 1781 W Main Street Inverness 12:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Culvers  Largo 3500 E Bay Dr Largo 12:15 p.m.-6 p.m. Culvers  Lecanto 1712 N Lecanto Highway Lecanto Noon-6 p.m. Culvers  Ranch Lake 5750 Ranch Lake Blvd Bradenton 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Culvers  St. Petersburg 1451 34th St N St. Petersburg 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Culvers  Zephyrhills 6386 Gall Blvd. Zephyrhills

Having blood on hand at hospitals during an emergency can mean the difference between life and death for some patients, thats why its so important to give if youre able.

Generally, healthy people age 16 or older who weigh at least 110 pounds can donate blood. A photo ID is required.

Walkups are welcome, however you may experience a short wait. Donation times vary per location.

For more information, call 888-9-DONATE.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The next group of families of former IDPs has returned to Sus village of Lachin district within the framework of the Great Return, Trend reports.

According to the information, there is 39 families (140 people).

The families who came to Lachin returned to their native land with tears of joy. They were welcomed with great enthusiasm and admired the beautiful panorama of Lachin.

Thus, 59 families (215 people) have been permanently settled in Sus village of Lachin district. All conditions have been created for the resettled families in Sus village.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Nearly a year and a half after their union was voluntarily recognized, workers at the Academy Foundation  a nonprofit dedicated to protecting film history  have ratified their first labor contract.

In results that were tallied on Wednesday, 64 workers voted yes to passing the new three-year agreement, while none voted against the deal. Eighty-six archivists, film preservationists, librarians, curators and others who work at the 501(c)(3) arm of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences are included in the union, which is called the Academy Foundation Workers Union. The contract went into effect on Thursday.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

The new contract will cumulatively raise wages for workers between 11 to 27 percent by the end of the contract, with a minimum of 3 percent wage increases annually. The deal establishes four additional weeks of paid parental leave and gives workers the ability to go on extended medical leave. The contract also includes protections against subcontracting and language to create more professional development opportunities, according to a joint statement from the union and the employer.

Our first contract signals to our bargaining unit and management that a new era at the Academy Foundation has arrived  an era of a more fair and equitable partnership with management and workers, film archivist and AFWU bargaining team member Jessi Jones said in a statement. As we move forward, the bargaining unit will benefit from wage increases, health care and benefits stability and a system of checks and balances. Im proud to be a member of AFWU and proud of our accomplishments.

The AFWU is affiliated with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 126, which also represents workers at the Academy Museum in collective bargaining. Both the Academy Foundation and the Academy Museum launched their organizing drives in 2022, citing their interest in having a greater say in the workplace. (Academy Foundation workers particularly stated at the time that they also wished to improve wages, working conditions, benefits, transparency, sustainability and diversity, equity and inclusion at the office.) The Academy Museum union ratified its first contract in September 2023.

On behalf of Academy leadership, I am delighted that the contract that we negotiated with the Academy Foundation union was approved by its members, many of whom are long-serving employees, said Academy COO and Academy Foundation general Counsel Brendan Connell, Jr. in a statement. With this contract, joining the contracts that the Academy successfully reached in recent months with the Academy Museum union and IATSE, we are proud of the great work that happened at the bargaining table and the focus on our remarkable employees.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter
DENVER (KDVR)  Months of discussion, analysis and conversations have ended with Adams County Fire Protection District and North Metro Fire Rescue District agreeing not to move forward with a merger.

The two agencies held a joint board meeting discussing the merger in January, based on the premise that the first responder districts could cost-effectively unite resources to improve services for both communities. The process was only just beginning in January, but the two agencies said they were publicizing the potential merger to maintain trust and transparency with the community.

Bennett agrees to pay Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office $500K for law enforcement

Now almost June, the two agencies released a statement saying the process has come to an end with leadership, namely Board Presidents Ken Lombardi of Adams County Fire Rescue and Richard Miller of North Metro Fire, saying they will forego the merger.

Our boards and district personnel still believe in the potential of a merger that could benefit both fire districts, the pair said in a joint statement. However, recent legislation and impending ballot measures that reduce property tax revenue, along with other economic uncertainties, have caused some concern in how these changes have and will affect our organizations.

The board presidents said they are concerned that a merger would reduce each fire districts tax revenue significantly, pointing to recent legislative impacts in addition to the fact that if the pair merged, the North Metro Fire District would have to lower its mill levy to match the other fire districts mill levy.

Furthermore, the merger comes as our fire districts are going through a transition of several senior leadership positions. Due to these key factors, we feel this is not the best time to move forward in this process, Lombardi and Miller wrote.

The pair said both agencies will continue to progress their strong history of working together, and said the process has helped both agencies gain further mutual respect. The pair said that moving forward, the agencies will continue to operate and train side-by-side.

Things to do for Memorial Day weekend near Denver

We are excited to continue our work as partners in the North Area, seeking further opportunities to foster synergies between the two organizations while improving emergency service and special team response across our region, sharing resources and servicing both fire districts through a combined Fleet Division, they wrote.

They said the merger could be revisited once new leaders have been established and economic futures have been stabilized.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
A High Desert student was among a group of seniors who received scholarships courtesy of the Southern California Association of Governments.

Scholarship winner Bryan Moreno of Adelanto will receive $4,000 in financial support from the group, considered the nations largest metropolitan planning organization, representing six counties, 191 cities and nearly 19 million residents.

A High Desert student was among a group of seniors who received scholarships courtesy of the Southern California Association of Governments.

The organization undertakes a variety of planning and policy initiatives to plan for a livable and sustainable Southern California now and in the future.

Now in its 14th year, the Southern California Association of Governments scholarship program provides financial support to a select group of high school and community college students who have expressed interest in urban planning and public policy as part of their long-term career goals.

Were honored to have the opportunity to help these students in the next stage of their academic journeys. They are remarkable young adults and future leaders for our region, said Curt Hagman, President of SCAGs Regional Council and a San Bernardino County Supervisor.

As part of the application process, students were required to submit a completed application form, a minimum 500-word essay, two letters of recommendation and a current academic transcript.

Bryan Moreno

Moreno graduates this month from Adelanto High School and plans to attend the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in architecture.

Raised in a Mexican and Salvadorian household, the importance of academic pursuit was implanted in me by my parents, Moreno wrote in his application essay. Their dedication in providing me this chance, despite financial struggle and hardships, has fueled my commitment not only to pursue my aspirations, but also the dreams they nurtured for me.

Gina Namkung

Southern California Association of Governments officials also spotlighted student Gina Namkung of Murrieta, who graduates this month from Murrieta Valley High School and plans to attend UCLA, majoring in public policy.

Namkung wrote in her application, I aspire to create a world where children play in parks instead of parking lots. A world where future generations wont suffer from smog-choked air. A world where families arent stuck in stucco boxes. With the support of this scholarship, I would be able to help shape Los Angeles into a sustainable hub and create a world where we can all admire the twinkling stars and peaceful darkness of the night sky.

The other scholarship recipients included:

Alexandra Garcia of Imperial

Camila Garcia of Calexico

Navin Parmar of Calabasas

Owen Rusk of Newhall

Joshua Lou of Cypress

Yaretzi Vazquez-Frias of Orange

Camilo Garcia of Oxnard

This years scholarship committee was composed of 11 Southern California Association of Governments Regional Council members and two representatives from education.

Representing the Inland Empire were Committee Chair and Chino Hills City Councilmember Ray Marquez, Palm Desert City Councilmember Kathleen Kelly and Palm Desert City Councilmember Jan Harnik.

For more information about SCAGs regional efforts, visit scag.ca.gov.

Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Adelanto student receives scholarship from Southern California group
RICHMOND, Va. (WFXR)  Aetna Better Health of Virginia, a company part of CVS Health, donated $400,000 in funding to Restoration Housing for the purchase of a property to be used by the Twelve Foundation in Roanoke.

Focused on supporting mothers with substance abuse disorder, the Twelve Foundation is a non-profit organization that serves pregnant and postpartum women and their infants. The new facility on Patterson Avenue will serve as a clinically managed low-intensity residential area and a partial hospitalization site. This will include substance use disorder case management services, medication-assisted treatment, and individual therapy.

Were proud to support the purchase of this property, which will provide crucial services to pregnant women and new mothers with substance use disorder who are looking to make a fresh start, said Joel Gray, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Virginia. This donation reflects our commitment to improve the health and well-being of all communities across the Commonwealth, and resolve the complex and intertwined physical, social and mental health care needs of the patients we serve.

Patrick Henry Elementary takes creative approach to fixing chronic absenteeism

Restoration Housing will restore the building, install ADA-complaint facilities, install fire suppression systems, and transform the property into a supportive treatment facility for pregnant women, new mothers, and children.

The facilitys supportive programming will serve approximately 28 women and 28 babies annually through medicated treatment, provide essential medical care, and support services.

This facility will be a beacon of hope for pregnant women and new mothers in need of support, said Isabel Thornton, Executive Director of Restoration Housing. We are grateful for Aetnas generous donation, which will enable us to purchase the facility, and partner with a nonprofit to provide comprehensive care to women and infants in the community.

Renovations are expected to be completed for operations to begin in the fall of 2024, with programming guaranteed for a minimum of 10 years.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11)  A new building in Brooklyn offers 100% affordable housing for older adults, with dozens of apartments set aside for public housing residents.

The Atrium at Sumner is located on Marcus Garvey Boulevard in BedfordStuyvesant, right across from the Sumner Houses. It offers 190 units of affordable housing, including 33 apartments NYCHA residents were able to apply for.

Idell Stith, 65, applied to the housing lottery in January. She found out in March that she won and moved into the new building this month. Stith got a beautiful one-bedroom apartment.

Mayor Eric Adams led the ribbon-cutting ceremony at The Atrium at Sumner. Its all thanks to the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, NYCHA, and the New York City Housing Development Corporation.

List: NYC affordable housing lotteries with washers and dryers in units

The building was designed by the renowned architecture group Studio Libeskind, known for work across the globe  most famously the One World Trade Center.

The building is exclusively for older New Yorkers, and all of the apartments are taken right now. However, there are 32 affordable housing lotteries currently open across New York City. You can apply to them online at the NYC Housing Connect website.

On the next Monica Makes it Happen Show, PIX11s Monica Morales will have exclusive listings, all thanks to a partnership with the city.

Guests on the upcoming show include hip hop legend and mogul Dres; Linda Hoffman, the president of the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens; Victoria Schneps, the publisher and owner of Schneps Media; and housing heroes who are giving $1 million to groups helping their communities thrive.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
US Attorney General Merrick Garland has taken the rare step of directly refuting a claim made by Donald Trump.

The AG appeared at a Thursday press conference in Washington, where he took a question from a reporter on the 2024 presidential candidates claim that FBI agents were authorized by Joe Biden to use deadly force against him when they raided his estate and resort at Mar-a-Lago in August of 2022.

MrTrump made the claim on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday after newly unsealed court filings showed that four additional classified documents were discovered in the former presidents bedroom in the months following the initial search.

That allegation is false, and it is extremely dangerous, Mr Garland said on Thursday. Mr Garland personally approved the search of Mr Trumps home before the appointment of a special counsel to handle the departments prosecution of the former president in two separate cases.

The document that is being referred to in the allegation is the Justice Departments standard policy limiting the use of force, Mr Garland continued. As the FBI advises, it is part of a standard operations plan for searches and, in fact, it was even used in the consensual search of President Bidens home.

Attorney General Merrick Garland appears at the Justice Department for an event on 14 May 2024 (Getty Images)

Mr Trump is accused of a total of 88 felony counts, including charges brought by the Justice Department in two cases involving his allegedly illegal retention of classified documents, as well as his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Two district attorneys in New York and Georgia also have cases against him.

In New York, the former president is accused of more than 30 felony charges related to a hush money scheme involving adult actress Stormy Daniels dating back all the way to his first run for the presidency in 2016. It was after his appearance in that case earlier this week that the ex-president says he was informed of the language in the search warrant for his home.

"Crooked Joe Bidens DOJ, in their Illegal and UnConstitutional Raid of Mar-a-Lago, AUTHORIZED THE FBI TO USE DEADLY (LETHAL) FORCE," he wrote on Truth Social.

His loyalists, including Marjorie Taylor Greene, have followed suit in twisting the FBIs standard language to their own ends.

The Biden DOJ and FBI were planning to assassinate [president] Trump and gave the green light, the Georgia congresswoman wrote on X.

Mr Garlands comments at the presser on Thursday followed an official response from an FBI spokesperson earlier in the week.

The FBI followed standard protocol in this search as we do for all search warrants, which includes a standard policy statement limiting the use of deadly force, the bureaus statement read.

No one ordered additional steps to be taken and there was no departure from the norm in this matter, it continued.
By Adam Makary

CAIRO (Reuters) - Humanitarian food and fuel shipments may start coming into southern Gaza via Israel's Kerem Shalom crossing as early as Friday evening, Egyptian security sources said, following an agreement reached between the presidents of Egypt and the United States.

Egypt was coordinating with Israel on the aid, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi earlier on Friday agreed to temporarily send aid to the United Nations in Gaza via the crossing in southern Israel near the Egyptian border, Egypt's presidency said in a statement.

"This will help save lives," the White House said in a statement.

The shipments will pass through Kerem Shalom until legal mechanisms are in place to reopen the nearby Rafah border crossing from the Palestinian territory's side, the Egyptian presidency said. The crossing connects southern Gaza with Egypt.

Biden welcomed Egypt's commitment to allow the aid into Gaza, and told Sisi during a phone call he supported efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing under terms acceptable to both Egypt and Israel, the White House said in a statement. The U.S. will send a senior team to Cairo next week for talks.

The Palestinian Presidency, which rules the Israeli-occupied West Bank, also agreed to the joint decision following consultations with Egyptian officials, the Palestinian Presidency said in a statement.

The Egyptian presidency said the agreement resulted from "the difficult humanitarian situation of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, the lack of means of life in the Strip, and the lack of fuel needed for hospitals and bakeries."

"Fuel supplies in Gaza remain very low," the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported late on Friday. Without a continued supply of fuel to Al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza, the lives of 20 newborns receiving oxygen will be at risk, WAFA said.

On Monday, Egypt warned against Israel's continued military operations in Rafah, which were preventing aid deliveries to the impoverished enclave of 2.3 million people.

Much of the aid delivered into Gaza since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began in October has come through Egypt, entering through the Rafah or Kerem Shalom crossings.

According to the Egyptian sources, Sisi also told Biden that Egypt continued to reject coordination with Israel on the Rafah border crossing and the two leaders discussed the post-war management of the border.

Egypt said it was committed to sending aid through Rafah, but only until a mechanism can be established that is agreed on by the Palestinian Authority, Egypt's state-affiliated Al Qahera news TV said on Friday, citing a senior source.

Since May 5, just before Israeli forces took control of the Rafah crossing from the Palestinian side, no trucks have crossed through Rafah and very few through Kerem Shalom, according to U.N. data.

Sisi and Biden also agreed to intensify international efforts to make Gaza ceasefire talks a success and end the "prolonged human tragedy experienced by the Palestinian people," the Egyptian presidency's statement added.

(Reporting by Mohamed Hindawy and Ahmed Mohamed Hassan; additional reporting by Doina Chiacu and Michelle Nichols writing by Adam Makary, Yomna Ehab, and Nafisa Eltahir; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
An Air Force two-star general who sought to retire in lieu of facing court-martial on sexual assault and other charges has had his request denied.

Maj. Gen. Phillip Stewart is scheduled to appear in military court June 17 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. Stewart in January filed paperwork with Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall asking to retire as his case was headed to arraignment, but that request was denied in February, Sherilyn Bunn, one of Stewarts civilian lawyers, told Air Force Times.

Air Force 2-star pleads not guilty in sexual assault case

Stewart, the Air Forces former pilot training boss, faces charges that he assaulted a woman at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, in April 2023. He also faces accusations that he pursued an unprofessional relationship and flew a plane within 12 hours of consuming alcohol. He pleaded not guilty on all charges in March and his attorneys have said the sex was consensual.

Stewart is the second Air Force general officer to face court-martial for sexual assault. He will be tried by a jury of his peers  a panel of two-, three- and four-star generals who have served in uniform at least as long as he has.

Stewart was in charge of 19th Air Force, where he oversaw pilot training, 32,000 employees and more than 1,500 aircraft, when he was fired by Air Education and Training Command boss Lt. Gen. Brian Robinson in May 2023 amid a misconduct investigation. He was charged in September with two counts of sexual assault under Article 120 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice; two counts of dereliction of duty under Article 92; one count of conduct unbecoming of an officer under Article 133; and one count of extramarital sexual conduct under Article 134.

Air Force general seeks retirement instead of court-martial

Lawyers for Stewart have said that Col. Brian Thompson, the military judge who presided over Stewarts preliminary Article 32 hearing, recommended Robinson not pursue a court-martial in favor of administrative discipline.

Its really frustrating that the Air Force has continued ignoring the evidence and conclusions from the Article 32 preliminary hearing officer, especially when hes a seasoned judge with decades of military law experience, Bunn said in a statement. Its troubling to see his findings and advice seemingly disregarded  but the reason is pretty obvious. Senior leaders today are influenced more by their own fear of public backlash  and their own aversion to risk  than they are by the facts at hand.

Stewart faces a minimum sentence of dismissal or dishonorable discharge, or up to 66 years in confinement and forfeiture of pay, if convicted.
A police car behind crime scene tape. (Getty Images)

The Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission (ACVCC)will receive $1.5 million from the General Fund budget next year as it continues to reduce a backlog of claims.

The amount represents level funding for the agency, which first received General Fund money last year as its traditional revenue sources  fines and fees  declined and its services suffered.

We are playing catch up from the COVID years, when our court systems were down and a lot of crime victims were not getting their payments, said Rep. Rex Reynolds, R-Huntsville, the chair of the House Ways and Means General Fund Committee. Now that court systems are back running 100%, our caseloads are up for example. Madison County is up 38%, so they needed the money to provide compensation.

The agency was established by the Legislature in 1984. Its purpose is to provide funds to victims of violent crime to pay for resources they need, from funeral expenses for loved ones to compensation for lost income resulting from the crime. The agency also pays for testing for victims of sexual assault.

Money for the agency comes primarily from fines and fees paid to the court.

Before this year, the ACVCC got funding from fines and court fees, as well as restitution paid to courts and the agency. But a years-long decline in court fees hurt the agencys bottom line.

The decreased dollars left the agency with fewer staff to handle claims submitted by victims of violent crimes and their loved ones while also decreasing the amount that applicants received after experiencing violent crimes.

A backlog formed that last year led to protests over slow processing times. Everette Johnson, the executive director of the ACVCC, said Thursday they had cut the number of claims awaiting processing.

As of this week, we are down to about 660 claims that are still in the backlog status, he said.

Johnson said that the agency had requested slightly more than $3 million from legislators in the most recent session. Money from the General Fund will pay for operations and staff costs, as well as pay the claims to eligible victims and their families.

The agency received about $1 million from the governors office through a special appropriation that will go toward addressing the backlog situation.

Reynolds didnt commit to funding the agency long-term and said that he will base his decision on the money the agency receives from the courts before deciding on how much money to provide ACVCC next year.

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Photo: The State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. A delegation comprised of officials and prominent members of public of the US state of Maine visited liberated cities of Shusha and Lachin as part of their visit to the country, Trend reports.

During the trip to Shusha, the guests were informed about the ancient history of the city, as well as the construction works, restoration of historical monuments, and future plans in Shusha.

The delegation got acquainted with the conditions created for those who resettled to Shusha, and commended the work done here. They condemned the acts of vandalism committed by Armenia against cultural monuments and mosques in the city of Shusha during the occupation.

Furthermore, the guests visited Vagif mausoleum, Ganja Gates, "Shot monuments", the Jidir Duzu Plain and the Yukhari Govhar Agha Mosque.

The US delegates then arrived in the city of Lachin. The guests were given detailed information about the conditions created, and ongoing works here. They also visited the Agro and Industrial Park, a greenhouse, a farm, and the village of Sus of the Lachin district.
Smocks are draped over an easel in a classroom at Hillcrest Children's Center on April 18, 2024, in Anchorage. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon)

Smocks are draped over an easel in a classroom at Hillcrest Children's Center on April 18, 2024, in Anchorage. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon)

About a dozen preschoolers played in the snowmelt in the yard of Hillcrest Childrens Center in Anchorage this April. Most were zipped into heavy duty outerwear against the spring chill. All of them were splattered with dirt.

One of our values is mud, said Christina Eubanks, the centers director, before an exuberant and particularly mud-coated child pulled her aside to tell her about his day and offer her some of the muffin that was part of the days afternoon snack.

Caring for kids costs money. Eubanks had popped out into the yard after reviewing the budget the centers board had voted on the night before. The balance sheet is riddled with negative numbers, but Hillcrest will be in the black this year. That is only possible because of nearly $200,000 in grants from federal pandemic aid that the organization used to offset tuition costs. That is not expected in the year coming forward, Eubanks said.

The state will distribute the last of the federal aid to child care centers this summer.

So were hoping that will be enough to balance out this years budget. It would be great if there was some funding to go into next years, Eubanks said.

Hillcrest had to increase what it paid workers just to be competitive with unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Eubanks said she knows the child care centers costs are reaching the limit of what families can afford, but the parent-run board still voted to increase its monthly rates to up to $1,850 to keep up with the cost of operation.

It is in these tenuous conditions that Alaska lawmakers passed the child care legislation. The proposed law expands eligibility for families to get financial assistance for child care, offers tax incentives for companies to invest in child care options and gives the state the option to consider the actual cost of care, rather than the market rate, when setting its rates.

Lawmakers separately included $7.5 million in the states budget for grants to support child care centers.

Preschoolers play in the snowmelt at Hillcrest Childrens Center in Anchorage on April 18, 2024. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon)

Stephanie Berglund, the leader of a nonprofit resource and referral center for child care in the state, hailed the achievement. This is a landmark milestone for Alaska, she said. Whats significant is recognizing the importance and value of working families, and the need for our state to be investing in critical child care support.

By her estimate, the changes could double the amount of Alaska families eligible for child care subsidies and assistance. But she said that since the pandemic, nearly a quarter of Alaskas small child care businesses have closed and her organization has not seen new ones fill the gap. She cautioned that without movement to support child care businesses and create new ones, there may not be enough programs for newly qualifying families to apply their benefits to.

This legislation is just one piece of whats needed. Child care is still very much in crisis in Alaska, she said.

It doesnt fix everything

Rep. Julie Coulombe, R-Anchorage, sponsored the legislation, which began as House Bill 89  and she is the first to admit that it is not a complete solution. HB 89 doesnt fix everything. But its a start, she said. I think it just brings a lot of people hope that maybe we can keep this momentum going.

Childrens coats hang in a hallway at Hillcrest Childcare Center in Anchorage o n April 18, 2024. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon)

Coulombe serves on the governors child care task force and said there was celebration of the bill at its meeting this week because the changes come directly from work with state staff and care center operators from around the state.

The piece she is most excited about is the public private partnership that offers tax credits to businesses that make payments or contributions for child care and child care facilities. In my opinion, thats whats going to move the needle the most, because thats right where people are working, thats their employers. Thats going to have a really big impact.

Another supporter of the bill, Rep. Zack Fields, D-Anchorage, said its language was based on legislative best practices from around the country that were successful in states with either mixed or Republican-led legislatures. It represented what is possible in Republican legislatures, he said.

He also stressed the need to expand child care. Its not enough to stabilize a sector; the sector has grossly inadequate capacity right now, he said. So, he too has his eye on tax credits.

The biggest question is, what is the uptake on these tax credits to expand care? he said. The best thing that could happen would be a bunch of companies invest in new child care facilities.

The tax credit is the reason Kati Capozzi, president of the Alaska Chamber, was one of the bills most active advocates. She said it is a priority for the businesses that are her organizations members, an indication that the businesses that pay taxes in the state would use the incentive.

They took a look at it, saw the tax credits that are available and encouraged the chamber to support the bill, presumably because they plan on using the tax credits that are included in it, she said.

Data shows unaffordable or unavailable child care affects Alaskas workforce. Seventy-seven percent of Alaska parents reported missing work because of child care challenges in one study.

Hail Mary

The milestone legislation did not succeed as a standalone bill. Instead lawmakers slipped it into a much larger bill at the 11th hour of the legislative session. Coulombe described it as kind of a Hail Mary, but said she doesnt mind what form it takes as long as it serves its purpose.

Nora Matell picks up her child from Hillcrest Childcare Center in Anchorage on April 18, 2024. The high school teacher said child care is expensive and hard to find. If you get in anywhere thats great. And then if you get into somewhere where theres not like all sorts of closures and you feel like your kids are safe and loved thats amazing, she said. Lawmakers passed legislation that would increase the number of families eligible for state subsidies on child care costs.

After passage by the House, HB 89 got hung up in the Senate Finance Committee. Sen. Cathy Giessel, R-Anchorage, tried to put the bills language in a bill that dealt with Medicaid in schools, but that proposal didnt get enough votes. So Fields asked Coulombe for permission to add it as an amendment to a popular board extension bill. Its the last day, and I got nothing to lose. So lets just try it, Coulombe recalled saying. It passed easily in the House and the Senate concurred just before gaveling out for the year at about a quarter midnight.

Fields called the amendments passage a miracle, but there is another hurdle before the bill becomes law. The popular bill that was such a successful vehicle for HB 89 was also a successful vehicle for a wide-ranging array of other bills. The practice of adding legislation as amendments to bills likely to pass, known as bill stuffing, is common and widespread, but this particular instance may have stretched the limits of what is allowed. Lawmakers are restricted to keeping the amendments to a single subject. The measure, Senate Bill 189, now ranges from board extensions to child care to big game permitting and marijuana taxes.

The governor has always said he supported HB 89, the original bill, Coulombe said, but added that she is sure the administration is going to give it a close look.

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Albuquerque man accused of murder to stay behind bars

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  An 18-year-old accused of a murder last month will stay in custody. Investigators say Angelo Andrade and another suspect shot and killed Jeremiah Houston in a downtown parking lot.

Man pleads guilty to 2023 shooting that left a man dead

An autopsy revealed Houston was shot at least ten times. Andrade was arrested in the South Valley last week.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  The Albuquerque Police Department hosted the annual law enforcement memorial ceremony at Civic Plaza on Thursday morning. City and law enforcement leaders paid tribute to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

City of Albuquerque says new LED lighting at Veterans Memorial Park will save money

Speakers addressed the audience about the increased danger that law enforcement faces with more guns than ever out on the streets. At the ceremony, a bell was rung for every New Mexico law enforcement officer who died in the line of duty. Across the country, 138 officers gave their lives while serving their communities.

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On Wednesday, the New York Times reported that in addition to the upside-down American flag Justice Samuel Alito and his wife displayed outside of their home in suburban Virginia after the 2020 election, there was yet another provocative and highly political flag flown at an Alito householdthis one hoisted on a flag pole outside of their vacation home in New Jersey in 2023.

This second flag, white with green pine tree, bears the words An Appeal to Heaven. Among certain circles, it has a very clear meaning: that the faithful should appeal to the forces of heaven to elect and seat Donald Trump as president.

If you look at the images from the Jan. 6 insurrection, Appeal to Heaven flags were everywhere. That the Alitos chose to display one outside of their homein 2023!cannot be separated from the flags ubiquity at the Capitol riots.

But in reality, the flags meaning is more complicated than just its association with Jan. 6and in some ways, more ominous.

The Appeal to Heaven Flag is an old symbol from the American Revolution that was resurrectedand reinterpretedaround 2013 by a charismatic religious leader called Dutch Sheets. Sheets is associated with a network known as the New Apostolic Reformation that was started in the 1990s and is characterized in part by religious leaders and churches who are inspired to wage spiritual warfare against their enemies through the act of targeted prayer. NAR also preaches political organizing in the earthly realm, to conquer different facets of society for God.

To the charismatic Christians who this flag was meant to speak to in the early 2010sthat is, particular nondenominational sects of Christians who believe in earthly miracles and the ongoing and constant intervention of the divine, and who often practice their faith through speaking in tongues and other similar displaysappealing to Heaven means praying for the intervention of Gods forces on earth. Many charismatic Christians in D.C. on Jan. 6 traveled there to pray, on the NAR leaders request, in proximity to the Capitol, against the forces of evil that they believe Trump was up against.

Sheets, who was already a prominent name among charismatic Christians, used the flag as a symbol of the spiritual fight to push Christianity deeper into society and especially into politics. In 2015, after Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized gay marriage nationwide, his movement expandedand the flag started to gain prominence in other conservative Christian circles. This was a moment when many conservative Christians felt the nation had turned away from Biblical values; they needed to appeal to heaven for Gods intervention.

The Appeal to Heaven flag began to pop up everywhere. But it truly took off when Trump lost the 2020 election. Charismatic Christian prophets and apostles had already declared that Trump was anointed by God to be the next president, to fight the forces of evil in America. So in the aftermath of Trumps loss, when it seemed to charismatic Christians that demonic entities were gaining territory in this spiritual battle, believers once again called upon Gods forces for miraculous intervention. These Christians may not be told by their religious leaders to fight in the earthly realm, but theyve still been primed to think of the world as a battlefield, and themselves as soldiers, in a very real sense.

Since the insurrection, the flag has continued to appear at events for Christian nationalist figures in politics such as former Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano. House Speaker Mike Johnson, too, displays an Appeal to Heaven flag outside his office door.

Johnson, though, is Southern Baptistnot a background that aligns with Sheets particular Christian tradition. Alito is also not affiliated with charismatic Christianity. He comes from a Roman Catholic faith tradition. Nor is Leonard Leo, who also flew the flag. Leo, the Federalist Society figure often credited for the current makeup of the Supreme Court, is a traditionalist Catholic.

The spread of this symbol among various political conservatives shows just how much the Appeal to Heaven flag has caught on with Christian nationalists, defined as those who abide by the (ahistorical) belief that the United States was founded as an explicitly Christian nation and needs to be reclaimed as one. (A Christian nation can mean many things, but at its core, it means a government that operates by Christian values, with an explicit privileging of the Christian faith above other religions.)

In other words, the current iteration of the flag has expanded beyond the community that birthed ita huge success for Sheets, who can now use it to excite a much broader audience. Some see the flag as a call to spiritual warfare. Others interpret it as a symbol that God backs their specific conservative, Christian visions for the country. And it is also, now, inextricably linked to the violence of Jan. 6 and the effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.

Some conservatives have pointed defensively to the flags origin in the Revolutionary War to justify the Alitos actions. The idea that the symbol is pulled from U.S. history could grant the flag a veneer of democratic legitimacybut no one should confuse it for a contemporary democratic symbol. Its a resurrected emblem, with a uniquely theocratic twist.

Regardless, anyone who owns one of these flags knows the most basic message behind it: America needs to be re-won for God. It involves Trump. But the goal will outlast him.
The KC Pet Project is searching for a small alligator that escaped from a petting zoo at a Kansas City, Mo., middle school. Photo courtesy of the KC Pet Project/Facebook

May 24 (UPI) -- Authorities in Missouri are searching for a small alligator that escaped from a petting zoo exhibit set up at a Kansas City middle school.

The KC Pet Project said the 14-inch alligator was last seen about 11 a.m. Thursday at Lakeview Middle School, where a third-party company had been hired to set up a petting zoo to celebrate the end of the school year.

Officers "searched the school and surrounding grounds for the animal at the site of the school for several hours, but were unable to locate the animal," KC Pet Project said in a Facebook post.

Officials said they are concerned for the safety of the alligator, as it was last seen with its mouth taped shut.

"It can fit in your hand," Tori Fugate, chief communications officer for the KC Pet Project's Animal Services Department, told the Kansas City Star. "Its mouth is taped shut. So our biggest concern is that it cannot fend for itself."

Officials said the school did not obtain the proper animal show permit before arranging for the petting zoo.

"KC Pet Project's Animal Services Division is committed to public safety, which is why permits are required for these types of events," Fugate told KMBC-TV. "Any type of event that showcases animals in Kansas City, MO, must have the proper permits to ensure that the event is safe for all participants as well as the animals."
Katryna Remy waited patiently in line Thursday afternoon at the new Costco store in Loomis, her cart filled with a blanket, snacks, water and two 750-milliliter bottles of Four Walls Irish Whiskey.

I havent tried the whiskey yet, said Remy, of Citrus Heights. Im sure its good.

She was the first in line, waiting for more than two hours to meet Charlie Day, one of the stars of the long-running FX sitcom Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Hes also one of the celebrities behind the Four Walls whiskey brand.

Its just a comfort show for me. I just rewatch it all the time, Remy said of the outlandish TV series that is still running after 16 seasons.

She brought some headphones along while she waited in line, but she never used them. Instead, she passed the time meeting other fans of the show as they waited to have their bottles of whiskey signed by the Hollywood star.

Weve made a lot of friends; just a really good memory, Remy said. Ive been doing a lot of people-watching.

She was talking about the crowded store filled with shoppers Thursday as Costco celebrated its grand opening at the Loomis location. Costco openings around the region have become a community celebration for residents as well as elected officials.

A few dozen fans greeted Day with applause and cheers as he approached the table with posters of the whiskey brand and its creators.

Day, Rob McElhenney and Glenn Howerton, stars and co-creators of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which is set in a bar, initially released a premium, collectors edition bottle of Four Walls whiskey to benefit the bartending community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The creators of the whiskey brand have since released an everyday-drinking version of Four Walls.

We wanted to create a brand celebrating the four walls that have held our favorite memories in and kept our troubles out  the bar, Howerton said about their whiskey on the brands website.

Day, also known for movie roles including Horrible Bosses, Pacific Rim and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, warmly greeted fans in line for his whiskey and posed for photos with them.

Noah Benjamins of Rocklin bought five bottles of the everyday-drinking version, but he also brought along his collectors edition bottle of the whiskey for Day to sign. He had been waiting in line since about 11 a.m. for the 2 p.m. bottle-signing event with Day.

Hes awesome. Hes great, Benjamins said with a huge grin while displaying his signed collectors edition bottle. When I got here, I was shocked that I would be the 10th or 12th person in line. A lot of people were coming up asking, What are you waiting in line for?

Costcos newest location in the Sacramento region, opened about 7:30 a.m. Thursday in the nearly 160,000-square-foot store at 4101 Sierra College Blvd. While the store was less busy by the afternoon, Days appearance resulted in a minor traffic jam of shopping carts in front of his table as he took photos with fans.

Miracle Rodriguez of Citrus Heights was one of Costco shoppers who lined up outside the store overnight, sleeping in sleeping bags just to be among the first who entered Thursday morning. After she did her shopping in the morning, she left Costco and returned a short time later meet Day.

She caught onto Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia during its eighth season and has been a devoted fan ever since. Rodriguez is enamored by Days character on the show, Charlie Kelly, a slow-witted, somewhat naive, high-energy hard worker among a gang of buffoons running a dive bar in Philadelphia. The series, available for streaming on Hulu, also stars Kaitlin Olson and Danny DeVito.

Hes my favorite. His character is like a little kid, Rodriguez said of Days character. Its been the time of my life. Memories forever.
Jeff Flake, U.S. ambassador to Turkiye, speaks at Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, May 23, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News

The Daily Beasts 2022 headline  Jeff Flake Got More Than He Bargained For  becomes more accurate by the day. The ex-senator from Arizona assumed the U.S. ambassadorship to Turkey a month before Russia invaded Ukraine, just across the Black Sea from Turkey. Then, a year-and-a-half later, war broke out to the south, when Hamas attacked Israel.

When reminded of the headline during an interview Thursday, Flake smiled. Napoleon said, If the world was a country, Istanbul would be its capital, he said. Thats especially true when the world is in upheaval.

Turkey borders Syria, Iraq, Iran, Armenia and Georgia. It shares the Black Sea with Ukraine and Russia. As a Muslim-majority country, its population is sympathetic to Palestine. Theres a lot going on, Flake said.

When the White House asked if Id consider something, I said, Only if its consequential, Flake said. He laughed. We overshot the mark.

Flake visited Salt Lake City on Thursday to speak at the Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit, hosted by Zions Bank and World Trade Center Utah. During his remarks, he discussed Turkeys efforts to bolster Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

He also spoke about the devastating earthquake that rocked Turkey a year ago. He mentioned that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has donated over $40 million in aid, the largest contribution by a single organization, by far.

No state in the country has been more charitable than Utah, Flake said, to applause. Not even close.

Before his speech, Flake spoke with the Deseret News about Ukraine, bipartisanship in the Senate and the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Jeff Flake, U.S. ambassador to Turkiye, speaks in an interview with the Deseret News at Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, May 23, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News

Jeff Flake, U.S. ambassador to Turkiye, speaks at Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, May 23, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News

Jeff Flake, U.S. ambassador to Turkiye, speaks at Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, May 23, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News

Jeff Flake, U.S. ambassador to Turkiye, speaks in an interview with the Deseret News at Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, May 23, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News

Jeff Flake, U.S. ambassador to Turkiye, speaks at Crossroads of the World International Trade Summit at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City on Thursday, May 23, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News

Flake used the pronunciation Turkiye during the interview, as it is used in diplomatic contexts. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Samuel Benson: Congress passed an aid package last month to help arm Ukraine, but not without opposition. Im curious about your thoughts on that negotiation.

Ambassador Jeff Flake: I was so, so happy. I happened to be in Washington in March on Capitol Hill with all of my former colleagues and getting their assessments, whether it was going to go or not. Im sure glad it did. It was a great example of the House and the Senate acting like the House and Senate of old, where youd cross party lines, form coalitions and vote for something good.

Ill tell you, it meant a lot to us out there, because obviously were trying to make sure that Turkiye is engaged. They have been steadfast in their support for Ukraines sovereignty. They invoked the Montreux Convention. They supplied, commercially, drones that have helped immensely. Theyve helped us with sanctions that weve imposed on Russia. So for us to then say, were not going to fund this anymore, it would be very difficult to explain to our host government there.

SB: Do you miss being in the Senate?

JF: Yes. You miss the associations. There are good people there. Some things you dont miss  the fundraising I dont miss. I dont miss speaking to a large group here today, in a nice hotel, and not asking for money afterwards.

SB: The Senate has certainly changed dramatically since you left in 2019. You mentioned the Senate of old, where there is bipartisanship and cooperation. A lot of the dealmakers  Manchin, Sinema, Romney  are leaving. What do you make of the future of the Senate?

JF: Its difficult. All that institutional memory about how legislation was passed  its gone. So, I mean, people will rise up, but its more difficult. The incentives are far more difficult, far more aligned with pushing people to the extremes, and so that makes legislating really difficult.

SB: The Senate, in recent months, has been deliberating over immigration, as well. For a time, foreign aid was tethered to immigration. That package failed. What do you think of tying border security to aid for Ukraine?

JF: Well, thats part of politics. Whether it was wise to tie them  I didnt think anything that slowed up Ukraine aid should have been employed. There are some things that are just so important that they have to move quickly. But obviously, as one who has been involved in immigration reform for all 18 years I was in Congress, its important, and I hope that they can reach a solution.

SB: Youve said that because Turkiye is a Muslim-majority country, sympathies lie with Palestine. What role does Turkiye play in potentially negotiating peace in the Middle East?

JF: Well, Turkiye has been a longtime supporter, as we have, of a two state solution, and theyve continued to push that. They have talked about some kind of guarantor role afterwards. Obviously, there would be a guarantor for the Palestinians, and assuming that the U.S. would be guarantor for Israel somehow. And other regional powers would assume some kind of role there. Thats not really fleshed out much. But were going to need something the day after.

I cant see a future peace without some of the regional powers like Turkiye playing some role. Obviously, theyll have a big role in the rebuilding. In Ukraine and in Gaza, theyll be certainly involved in that.

But yes, their sympathies certainly are with the Palestinians, and this is a tough issue for us to deal with. But, you know, we try to be good at compartmentalizing certain things that we disagree on, whether its northeast Syria, the (Syrian Defense Forces) or whatever  we agree to put those things on the shelf and deal with the number of issues that we agree on.

SB: Do you mean compartmentalizing between your views and Turkiyes, or the United States and Turkiyes?

JF: The United States position versus Turkiyes.

SB: What do you view Turkiyes role to be within NATO?

JF: Oh, obviously, theyre a significant, substantial part of NATO. They have the second largest army and NATOs second largest air force. They protect the southeastern flank. They have joined us in missions in Afghanistan. Right now theres Turkish troops in Kosovo on a NATO mission. So theyre always eager to uphold their responsibilities there.

With Ukraine, a lot of what theyve done, people dont know. Invoking the Montreux Convention to keep Russian warships out of the Black Sea. So these things have been important.

If you poll Turks on their attitude toward the United States, thats somewhat humbling. But if you asked Turks, do you think that Turkiye should remain a member of NATO, you get into 70s (percent) in support. People see that as an important thing, to side with the West. They certainly see themselves more anchored in the West than aligned with Russia.

SB: What do you perceive Americans view of Turkiye to be, especially as it relates to Ukraine, and does that match your view?

JF: Its difficult. You see the headlines. When they do something that aids Ukraine, that doesnt get as much press as when people find out that they havent imposed the same sanctions on Russia that we have. They have said that they will not allow Turkiye to be used to circumvent sanctions. But obviously, they have an economic dependence  particularly on the energy side  on Russia, and tourism. The bulk of their natural gas oil comes from Russia, like much of Europe. We cant expect them to simply go cold turkey, if you will.

But weve worked with them  and were getting better results working with them  to try to block dual use items from being imported into Turkiye and then transshipped to Russia. And theyve been increasingly cooperative.

SB: I want to ask about your view of Americas role abroad, and especially in eastern Europe. How has your time in Turkiye influenced your perspective on what the U.S. role globally should be?

JF: Well, I think the timing of going there, with Russia invading Ukraine for the second time, that has really done more to shape  I mean, Ive always been an internationalist. I believe that the the world is better off if we play a substantial role, and we lead with our military and with our values. So I think its important to stick with Ukraine now, and that we continue.

Whats been heartening to see is Sweden and Finland, for example, coming into NATO and making that alliance stronger. But Russia is a tough foe. They can outlast a lot of people. When you have a dictator at the helm, theyre impervious to political pressure from below. Thats a dangerous thing. So we have to remain cognizant of that and we have to remain engaged. And that means not just on the security side, but on the trade side as well.

SB: Are people in Turkiye paying attention to the U.S. presidential election?

JF: Yes.

SB: How does that affect the situation with Ukraine?

JF: I think they realize, despite what rhetoric you hear during the campaign, that the U.S. stands with Ukraine. So I mean, obviously we look at the nuances. But its not as if, when I meet with the foreign minister, he says, Well, were going to wait to see what happens in the election. Theyre engaging now. So thats important to us.

SB: Do you have any concern what a second Donald Trump term would look like for American foreign policy, specifically as it relates to Ukraine?

JF: I cant answer that question given my position. I have my own views, but I cant share them.

SB: The International Criminal Court this week sent out an arrest warrant for Netanyahu and for leaders of Hamas. What do you make of that?

JF: Thats a false equivalence, to put the two together. It doesnt make sense to me.

SB: Do you still consider yourself to be a Republican?

JF: I do.

SB: Are you still registered to vote in Utah?

JF: Yes.

SB: Do you plan to vote in the presidential election?

JF: Of course. You cant ask for whom.

SB: I dont know if you watch The View, but Christine Blasey Ford was on this week, and she said you were one of two Republican senators who treated her kindly during the Brett Kavanaugh hearings. Did you see that, and what was your response to it?

JF: I read about it. I think everyone deserves to be treated kindly. What a difficult thing for her to do. So I thought it was the right thing to do, and still do.

SB: Are we lacking kindness in politics?

JF: Certainly. Thats becoming less and less common, that people can compartmentalize and say, We didnt agree on this, but we agree on other things. A lot of it has to do with how easy it is to go on social media and tweet without thinking. Its just kind of a toxic brew right now that gives us what we have. I hope we can return to some semblance of normalcy, if thats still a possibility.

SB: The last thing Ill ask you: In election years, we tend to get a bit myopic, focused on whats happening in the U.S. If you could tell Americans to pay attention to one thing in the world right now, what would it be?

JF: Well, I think theres a strain of politics  I think a malignant strain  right now that says, we can shut the world out, and that we can be more peaceful, more secure, more prosperous, by shutting the world out. And I think that is wrong.

We need alliances. We need friendships. And thats one thing that Ive always known. Its certainly been reinforced, particularly after Ukraine. You need friends, you need allies. And you cant say, Well, we disagree on this issue, and so we wont do anything together. Youve got to have allies. Youve got to have friends. I know that doesnt play well in domestic politics, but it should.

I have to say, when I go to Capitol Hill on issues that are facing either Turkiye or the region, and I talk to my former colleagues  I mean, whether Im talking to (Sens.) Jim Risch, R-Idaho, or Ben Cardin, D-Md., or (Reps.) Greg Meeks, D-N.Y., or Michael McCaul, R-Texas, there is not much difference. Politics doesnt completely stop at the waters edge, but thats more true than not, and thats helpful. If you see voting patterns on this issue, its different than domestic politics. Thats good, in my view.
A ban on intoxicating hemp products has made it into the House version of the farm bill.

If the amendment makes it through a polarized House and divided Congress, it would end Americas brief experiment with nationally legal cannabis.

The language added to the House version of the farm bill by Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.) in effect repeals a sweeping legal change passed by an all-Republican coalition in 2018s farm bill.

That previous bill made it far easier for American farmers to grow nonintoxicating varieties of cannabis, defined in the statute as hemp, for industrial and medical use.

But vagueness in the laws wording, combined with the fact that intoxicating and nonintoxicating varieties of cannabis (hemp and marijuana, respectively) are functionally the same plant, allowed the evolution over the past six years of something not seen in America since the Gilded Age: a thriving market in universally available and largely unregulated cannabis products, as The Hill reported.

Because of the ambiguity created by the 2018 Farm Bill, a massive gray market worth an estimated $28 billion has exploded, a coalition of 22 state attorneys general wrote Congress in March, demanding members shut it down.

The attorneys argued that the 2018 law forced cannabis-equivalent products into our economies regardless of states intentions to legalize cannabis use, and dangerously undermining regulations and consumer protections in states where adult-use legal cannabis programs are already in place.

Millers amendment, which was co-sponsored by Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.), who is from a state with legal marijuana, restricts the definition of legal hemp to naturally, occurring, naturally derived and non-intoxicating cannabinoids.

That likely means cannabinoids like delta-8 THC (naturally occurring but generally chemically derived and certainly intoxicating) would be out.

So, too, would intoxicating drinks and edibles containing delta-9 THC or THCa  different names for what is roughly the same active chemical in the marijuana sold in regulated states like California.

In a statement, Miller said she was proud her amendment was included to close the loophole that has allowed drug-infused THC products like Delta-8 to be sold to teenagers in packaging that looks like candy.

The hemp sector, by contrast  a $28 billion industry for whom the amendment is an existential threat  fired back Friday.

The Hemp Roundtable asked all Representatives to vote against the Farm Bill unless the Mary Miller Amendment is removed, and referred to the language as hemp industry-killing.

The National Cannabis Industry Trade Group, which represents both industries, was more equivocal.

Co-founder Aaron Smith called for sensible federal regulations that apply equally to hemp- and marijuana-derived cannabinoid products.

Congress discussed addressing the profusion of arguably legal cannabinoids in last years attempted farm bill, but the combination of wide divides in Congress and the chaos around the election of House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) mooted any such attempts.

As in so much with the farm bill, the potential crackdown on hemp brings together an array of strange bedfellows.

Marijuana farmers in states like California and Nevada, which have tightly regulated recreational markets, have been among the loudest voices calling for crackdown on intoxicating hemp  a competing product that is often functionally identical to their own, but shorn of any regulation whatsoever.

In part, that is because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration insists hemp products are not safe and therefore does not regulate them.

The amendment, however, will only impact the large and growing hemp market if it passes the House, which is far from assured.

It would also have to make it through the Senate, which requires both sides to find a way through the reforms to food aid that Democrats and a wide array of civil society groups see as cuts.

The Senates version of the farm bill reauthorizes the hemp program without changing its definition.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
American Airlines: Attempt to blame 9-year-old for being recorded in lavatory is 'an error'

American Airlines is changing direction after saying that a young girl was negligent after being recorded by a flight attendant in the lavatory.

In the filing on May 21 the airline claimed that one of the plaintiffs, a 9-year-old girl, was recorded in the bathroom through her own fault and negligence.

[The] Plaintiffs use of the compromised lavatory, which she knew or should have known contained a visible and illuminated recording device, American Airlines response to the petition said.

American Airlines flight attendant: Accused of filming girls in plane bathroom arrested

Attorney Paul Llewellyn is representing two young girls who were recorded on separate flights, including the 9-year-old.

I was both shocked and outraged, Llewellyn told USA TODAY. As a lawyer I understand that you have to assert possible defenses, but I cannot even imagine a world where it would ever be appropriate to blame a 9-year-old for being filmed in an airplane bathroom.

In a statement to USA TODAY, American Airlines said that there was an error in the filing.

Our outside legal counsel retained with our insurance company made an error in this filing. The included defense is not representative of our airline and we have directed it be amended this morning," an American Airlines spokesperson said in a statement. We do not believe this child is at fault and we take the allegations involving a former team member very seriously. Our core mission is to care for people  and the foundation of that is the safety and security of our customers and team.

Llewellyn said that this situation has greatly impacted the victims, especially since the images were not ever located.

As a result of this has had a significant impact on them, he said, These images they could be on the dark web forever. These poor young girls for the rest of their lives will have this hanging over their heads and these intimate images of them exist out there and we don't know who has possession of them.

Former American Airlines flight attendant was charged for allegedly recording minors on board several flights

On April 26, former American Airlines flight attendant Estes Thompson, 36, a Charlotte, North Carolina resident, was charged after prosecutors said he secretly recorded minors while they used the plane's lavatory.

Thompson allegedly has the recordings of four minors, ages 7, 9, 11 and 14 years old, that had been using the bathroom while he worked on the aircraft, a press release from the Department of Justice said.

Over 50 images of the 9-year-old victim were found in Thompsons iCloud. In addition, the photos of the victim included images of her seated pre-flight and close-ups of her face while she slept on board, the press release said.

Flight attendant: Caught for allegedly filming a girl in the plane bathroom

14-year-old girl provided evidence of the encounter

According to a criminal complainant filed on Dec. 1, 2023, the family of a 14-year-old girl filed a lawsuit alleging that Thompson secretly recorded her while she utilized the lavatory.

On a flight from North Carolina to Boston on Sept. 2, 2023, the young girl needed to go the bathroom and Thompson told her to use the first-class facility. Thompson said he needed to wash his hands before the girl used the facility, the complaint said.

In September 2023, a 14-year-old North Carolina girl took a photo of a phone in an American Airlines lavatory. According to the criminal complaint a flight attendant had been recording the girl while she used the facility.

After using the bathroom, the girl noticed that a phone was hidden beneath the seat's broken sign. The victim then pulled out her phone to take a picture of what she saw to show to her parents, the complaint said.

When she unlocked the lavatory door, Thompson was standing there and entered the bathroom again. The victims father then confronted Thompson about the photo. After taking a while to show his phone to the father, no intimate photos of the girl were visible, the complaint said.

Thompsons charges

Following the incident with the 14-year-old girl, Thompson was arrested on Jan. 9 and charged with:

one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children

one count of possession of images of child sexual abuse depicting a prepubescent minor

"I think it is time for American Airlines to finally stand up and take responsibility for what happened instead of pursuing these frivolous legal defenses," Llewellyn said. "Why don't they take responsibility they claim to care about passengers they claim to take this case very seriously well actions speak louder than words."

Ahjane Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjane covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at aforbes@gannett.com . Follow her on Instagram, Threads and X (Twitter).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: American Airlines filing claims 9-year-old negligent in spycam case
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Equinor and its partners at Troll have greenlit a hefty investment of over 12 billion Norwegian krone ($1.1 billion) to bolster the gas infrastructure in the Troll West gas province, Trend reports.

According to the company, this will ramp up production from the reservoir, ensuring a steady flow of gas exports through the Troll and Kollsnes value chain until 2030.

The second stage of the Troll Phase 3 project is set to introduce eight new wells spread across two innovative templates with subsea controls extended from existing ones. A crucial addition will be a new gas flowline connecting to the Troll A platform, alongside necessary modification work on the platform itself. Operations are slated to kick off by the end of 2026, heralding a significant surge in gas production equivalent to about 55 billion standard cubic meters.

This expansion is expected to peak at an annual contribution of roughly 7 billion standard cubic meters of gas, further solidifying Troll's status as a major player in the gas sector. Notably, the initial phase of gas production from the Troll West gas province, initiated in 2021, already laid the groundwork with eight wells and a new pipeline to the Troll A platform. This earlier endeavor, coupled with the upcoming Stage 2, promises to extend plateau production by around four years and mitigate production decline over the next decade.

Recent upgrades at the Kollsnes processing plant have also bolstered Troll's output capacity. Formerly capped at 121 million standard cubic meters of gas per day, the maximum production now stands at 129 million. With the new Troll wells expected to contribute around 20 million standard cubic meters of gas per day, the future looks bright for Troll's gas production prowess.
American Airlines retreats after blaming a 9-year-old for not seeing a hidden camera in a lavatory

Video above: Why do we switch to airplane mode on US flights?

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP)  American Airlines has distanced itself from a court filing in which the carrier said a 9-year-old girl should have noticed there was a camera taped to the seat of an airplane lavatory.

A former flight attendant is accused of luring girls to use the lavatory after taping his iPhone to the toilet seat. The 9-year-olds family flew from Texas to California on American last year and sued the airline after the FBI told them that videos of the girl were found on the flight attendants phone.

Search on for men seen with 21-year-old before he vanished in Lakeland

In response to the lawsuit, American said in a court document that it would dispute the familys claim by showing that any injuries the 9-year-old girl suffered were caused by the girls own fault and negligence, were proximately caused by (her) use of the compromised lavatory, which she knew or should have known contained a visible and illuminated recording device.

An American spokesperson said Thursday that outside lawyers working for the company made an error in this filing.

We do not believe this child is at fault, and we take the allegations involving a former team member very seriously, the spokesperson said.

Lawyers for the airline amended the filing Wednesday in a state district court in Austin, Texas. The new filing is shorter and deletes the accusation that the girl caused her own injuries.

Estes Carter Thompson III, a flight attendant who was later fired by American, pleaded not guilty this week to attempted sexual exploitation of children and possession of images of child sexual abuse.

Burmese pythons are slithering farther north. Could the snakes make Tampa home?

Authorities say Thompson, 36, tried to secretly record video of a 14-year-old girl using the bathroom on a flight from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Boston, and had recordings of four girls including the 9-year-old using lavatories on earlier flights. He was arrested in January and has been in federal custody ever since.

Thompson is next due in federal court in Boston on July 1. The charges he faces carry maximum sentences of up to 30 and 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.

The 14-year-olds family is also suing American, which is based in Fort Worth.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
American who carried ammunition in Turks and Caicos gets suspended sentence and heads home. Fate of others charged is unclear

The first of several Americans recently charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos headed home Friday after getting a suspended 52-week sentence and a $6,700 fine, his representatives said.

But four other Americans still await their fate. In recent months, all were arrested and accused of bringing in various amounts of ammunition to the 40-island chain southeast of the Bahamas. In the Turks and Caicos, possession of firearms or ammunition carries a minimum 12-year sentence, though the law allows reduced sentences under exceptional circumstances, the local governor said.

Bryan Hagerich of Pennsylvania had pleaded guilty to the charge, the Turks and Caicos government said.

On Friday, he got a 52-week sentence that was suspended for one year, meaning he would not face immediate incarceration, Hagerichs attorney Oliver Smith, Kings Counsel, told CNN.

Hagerich was allowed to leave the British Overseas Territory and return to the United States once he paid the fine, Smith said. He would have to serve the full 12-month sentence if the fine was not paid.

Hagerich flew back to the US Friday afternoon, according to Johnathan Franks, a spokesperson for the Bring Our Families Home Campaign. The organization helps wrongfully detained Americans secure release.

Very grateful to the Court for giving two very special kids their dad back. Even more grateful to the numerous (Turks and Caicos Islands) nationals who helped along the way, Franks posted to X along with a picture of Hagerich boarding a plane.

After Hagerich arrived at Pittsburgh International Airport on Friday night, he told reporters he was absolutely elated to have his two children jump into his arms, according to CNN affiliate WTAE.

We have a lot of catching up to do, Hagerich said. A lot of memories to make together. Just so elated to see them. Theyve been so strong through all this.

Smith said his client was pleased, hes relieved by the outcome.

The sentence, in all its circumstances, is reasonable and fair, Smith said.

After Hagerichs sentencing, Turks and Caicos Premier Washington Misick said justice has been served as the law intended.

As we have said, The Firearms Act includes consideration for exceptional circumstances, Misick said, and todays decision reflects our commitment to judicial independence along with upholding the law. Residents and visitors can be confident that the Turks and Caicos Islands are dedicated to safety and compassion as we protect the safety and rights of all.

The four other Americans charged have been released on bail while they await their court dates, Misicks office said in a statement. One was allowed to return to the US for medical reasons, and the rest are staying in Turks and Caicos.

US lawmakers tried to get Americans freed

A US congressional delegation traveled to the islands this week and asked for charges to be dropped for the five Americans whom they said inadvertently had ammunition in their luggage.

Hagerichs sentencing came after the US officials expressed disappointment over their attempted intervention.

Unfortunately, despite our willingness to work with Turks and Caicos officials to get our constituents home, we were not able to find a path forward, Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma said in a statement this week.

In addition to Hagerich, two other Americans  Michael Lee Evans and Tyler Wenrich  have pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition while traveling in Turks and Caicos, according to the territorys government.

Evans was allowed to return to the US over a severe medical situation, but will be required to return to Turks and Caicos for his next hearing, Smith said.

A fourth American, Ryan Tyler Watson, will have a hearing Tuesday to determine if he will enter a plea or go to trial, Smith said.

A fifth American, Sharitta Shinese Grier, was arrested last week and is awaiting trial after making bail, according to Kimo Tynes, director of communications in the Office of the Premier and Public Policy.

Watsons wife, who will appear in Turks and Caicos court next week for her husbands ammunition offenses, told CNN her husband plans to employ a similar legal strategy as Hagerich.

I think were planning to kind of follow the same path that Bryan did, Valerie Watson told CNN on Saturday. I think theyve got a plan that theyve already come up with.

Hagerich and Watson share the same attorney, Valerie Watson said. I think hes ready to just go in (to court) on Tuesday so they can get that going, she added.

Turks and Caicos: No special treatment should be given to any group

Turks and Caicos Gov. Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam said the mandatory minimum 12-year sentence for possession of firearms or ammunition is in place to protect those on the islands, and judges may use their discretion to impose reduced sentences in exceptional circumstances.

But no special treatment should be given to any group, the Turks and Caicos premier said.

The law must be applied even-handedly, Misick said.

And US citizens are not being targeted, Turks and Caicos officials said. Of the 195 people sentenced for firearm-related offenses over the past six years, only seven were US citizens, Misick said Thursday. No US citizen has received the 12-year sentence to date.

Even though the territory doesnt manufacture firearms or ammunition, the number of firearms finding their way to the islands has increased, Misick said. By contrast, the United States has more guns than people.

Now, bringing firearms or ammunition into Turks and Caicos without prior permission from police is strictly forbidden.

While the US and Turks and Caicos collaborate in battling narcotics, terrorism and money laundering, our laws and processes are not congruent, Misick said.

We are a separate sovereignty. We respect the United States laws and we will never think to interfere in its operation.

But at least one appointed member of the opposition, Alvin Garland, expressed concern about the American citizens arrests.

Garland said the islands governor is correct in not interfering with the ongoing court cases in order to adhere to the governments separation of powers, but added he believes most, if not all, of the cases involving American tourists will fall into the exceptional circumstances category and sentences could be shorter than the mandatory 12-year minimum.

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNNs Carlos Suarez, Maija Ehlinger, Amanda Musa, Hira Humayun, Lauren Mascarenhas and Rebekah Riess contributed to this report.

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly spelled the last name of Turks and Caicos Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam.

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American dad arrested on family vacation for having ammo in Turks and Caicos escapes jail time

Father of two, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, has been given a suspended sentence of 52 weeks after being charged with possessing ammunition on the island of Turks and Caicos (Supplied)

A US father-of-two arrested in Turks and Caicos after ammunition was found in his luggage has narrowly avoided jail time and is set to be sent home imminently, his lawyer has said.

Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, has been given a suspended sentence of 52 weeks. His lawyer said he was expected to repatriated by dinner time.

Mr Hagerich was one of several Americans facing a potential mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years in prison on ammunition charges in the British territory.

On Friday, the judge found that the case had exceptional circumstances and that the lengthy sentence would be arbitrary, according to spokesperson Jonathan Franks. He will also have to pay a $6,700 fine, Mr Franks said.

2/ Bryan faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for (inadvertent) possession of ammunition UNLESS the Judge finds exceptional circumstances. If she does, sentencing is effectively at-large.



We hope to leave Turks and Caicos today and repatriate Bryan by dinner time.  Jonathan Franks (@jonfranks) May 24, 2024

Mr Hagerich was arrested in February while returning home from a family vacation after ammunition was found in his checked luggage. He pleaded guilty to possession of 20 rounds of ammunition.

In an interview with ABC News earlier this month he said he was a man of integrity, character. I did not have intent in this.

Prior to his hearing, Mr Hagerich had been living with Ryan Watson  also a father of two, and also facing similar charges of ammunition possession. The men had been living in an Airbnb on the island with Mr Watsons parents, The Indpendent understands.

More follows ...
A U.S. citizen who was looking at a minimum mandatory 12-year prison sentence in the Turks and Caicos Islands after being caught with 20 rounds of rifle ammunition in his bag as he and his family were returning home to Pennsylvania in February has been given a suspended sentence and fined $6,700.

Bryan Hagerich is among five American tourists, including a Florida woman, who were arrested in the British overseas territory this year for having ammunition in their luggage.

The charges for ammunition possession under the territorys new tough gun law have generated both praise and criticism, while making global headlines for the sunswept-island chain that spends thousands marketing itself as a tourist haven just 600 miles southeast of Miami.

Justice has been served as the law intended, Turks and Caicos Premier Charles Washington Misick said in a statement after the verdict. As we have said, The Firearms Act includes consideration for exceptional circumstances and todays decision reflects our commitment to judicial independence along with upholding the law. Residents and visitors can be confident that the Turks and Caicos Islands are dedicated to safety and compassion as we protect the safety and rights of all.

Last week, as islanders paid close attention to the case and demanded no special favors be granted, a U.S. congressional delegation of members of both chambers and Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd landed in the islands largest city, Providenciales, to plead the tourists cases and ask for their immediate release.

They were quickly disappointed. Both Misick and Gov. Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam rejected the request, informing the delegation that they could not interfere with judicial proceedings. All those charged had to have their fates decided by the courts, the government said. Daniel-Selvaratnam also pushed back on accusations that American tourists were being targeted.

We do not target U.S. nationals and any statements to the contrary are without merit, she said. Our independent justice system upholds the rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of nationality, whilst maintaining the security and integrity of our islands.

In addition to Hagerich, three of the accused, Tyler Wenrich of Virginia, Ryan Watson of Oklahoma, and Michael Lee Evans of Texas, have pleaded guilty.

Orlando resident Sharitta Shinise Grier, who is currently out on bail, has not yet entered a plea.

On Friday, Grier and Watson were in the courtroom to support Hagerich and witness the proceedings in anticipation of their own upcoming court dates. Supreme Court Justice Tanya Lobban was stern and unflinching. She told Hagerich that the 20 rounds of big game rifle ammunition found in his bag are very serious.

She mentioned the ongoing gun-crime culture in the Turks and Caicos Islands and how the bullets could have easily fallen into the wrong hands. But she recognized that Hagerich immediately took responsibility and was cooperative.

It would therefore be arbitrary and disproportionate, Lobban said, to impose the mandatory minimum 12-year sentence. She also took into consideration letters from Hagerichs doctor about his medical condition, and a doctors note about how the stress over his detention had negatively affected his wife and 5-year-old daughter. Hagerich also had 11 character references provided to the court, including from a member of Congress, a Somerset County commissioner and from his employer.

In the end, Lobban found that Hagerich didnt intentionally bring the bullets into the country and his case fell within the category of exceptional circumstances. She sentenced him to 52 weeks suspended sentence and after initially issuing a $10,000 fine she reduced it to $6,700.

Asked if he could pay the fine, Hagerich said he could and immediately after the proceedings was seen paying.

The cases have also generated interest from the National Rifle Association, which described the Turks and Caicos as a potential nightmare for gun owners.

Hagerich was represented by one of the territorys top firms, and after spending eight days in jail he was forced to remain in the territory until his case could be adjudicated.

Despite her tough stance toward those accused of bringing ammunition into the country, Lobban also did not let the government of the Turks and Caicos off easily. She said law reforms need to take place because visitors who are licensed firearms owners cannot face automatic sentences because they inadvertently left ammunition in their bags.

But all people are equally before the law, she stressed, noting that they had to go through the proceedings so that a judges discretion can be applied, if the case merits it.
American gets suspended sentence in Turks and Caicos over ammo in bag

An American tourist who was arrested in the Turks and Caicos Islands for possessing ammunition was given a suspended sentence of 52 weeks on Friday and left the British territory following a monthslong ordeal, a spokesperson posted to social media. The spokesperson for Bryan Hagerich of Pennsylvania initially said the sentence was 52 months long and then corrected the length of the sentence.

Hagerich was one of several Americans facing a potential mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years in prison on ammunition charges in Turks and Caicos. According to spokesperson Jonathan Franks, the judge found that the case had exceptional circumstances and that the lengthy sentence would be arbitrary. The father of two, who also had to pay a $6,700 fine, landed in Pittsburgh late Friday night, where he was met by his family, along with Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Republican Rep. Guy Reschenthaler.

Before leaving the islands, Hagerich told reporters he was elated with the outcome of his case.

"This is what we've been waiting for for the last 101 days, and to experience this here and eight short hours to be home and hug my kids, it's the best day," Hagerich said.

He said he was going to tell his children that he loved them.

"We have a lot of time to make up for," his wife Ashley Hagerich said.

Hagerich had pleaded guilty to possessing 20 rifle rounds, according to the Turks and Caicos government. He was arrested in February when the ammunition was found in his checked bag, and he said he spent eight nights in jail before he was released on bail.

"Some of the darkest, hardest times of my life, quite frankly," Hagerich told CBS News last month.

Premier C. Washington Misick said in a statement Friday that justice had been "served as the law intended."

"Today's decision reflects our commitment to judicial independence along with upholding the law," Misick said in a statement. "Residents and visitors can be confident that the Turks and Caicos Islands are dedicated to safety and compassion as we protect the safety and rights of all."

Hagerich told news outlets he didn't know he brought the hunting ammunition on a family vacation to Turks and Caicos but he recognized it when authorities found it in his bag.

Who are the Americans arrested in Turks and Caicos?

Hagerich is the first of several Americans arrested on ammunition charges in recent months to be sentenced. Three other Americans' cases are pending in the archipelago southeast of the Bahamas. A fifth American who was also recently charged was allowed to return home for medical reasons.

Tyler Wenrich, a father from Virginia accused of having two 9 mm bullets in his backpack when he was trying to board a cruise ship, pleaded guilty this week and is awaiting sentencing.

Ryan Watson, a father from Oklahoma, is expected to plead guilty next week after four rounds of hunting ammunition were found in his carry-on luggage last month.

Sharitta Grier, a grandmother from Florida who allegedly had two bullets in her carry-on bag when she was going home from a surprise Mother's Day vacation, has a court date scheduled for July.

The cases caught the attention of members of Congress, who recently visited Turks and Caicos and met with officials. Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, issued a statement Friday expressing gratitude for the judge's decision.

"When we met with TCI officials a few days ago, they made clear that they wanted this situation resolved," Fetterman said in a statement. "They recognized that Bryan and the other detained Americans are not gunrunners  they are just people who made a mistake."

Hagerich's congressman, Republican Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, said the ordeal was avoidable.

"While I am overjoyed to see Bryan Hagerich will be returning to Pennsylvania and reuniting with his wife and two children, this terrifying situation should have never happened to him," Reschenthaler said on social media.

Turks and Caicos travel advisory

Before Friday's sentence was handed down, Reschenthaler called for the Biden administration to stop Americans from traveling to Turks and Caicos. He told CBS News he wants the U.S. State Department to issue a no-travel order for the islands.

"Without question, Americans should not travel to Turks and Caicos until two things happen," Reschenthaler told CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave on Thursday. "Number one, all our detainees need to be released to the United States immediately, and Turks and Caicos needs to repeal this draconian law that's totally out of step with other nations."

The State Department has a travel advisory in place for Turks and Caicos urging Americans to exercise increased caution there, which is similar to what the department has in place for some European countries and other places.

In a similar case last year, an Indiana man served more than five months in prison.

"No clean running water, you're kind of exposed to the environment 24/7, mosquitoes and tropical illnesses are a real concern," Michael Grim told CBS News.

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'The American mind is not all that small, and it welcomes all ideas.'

Robert J. Booker, Knoxvilles most revered African American historian, an Austin High School graduate and a stalwart leader of Knoxville's Civil Rights Movement, died Feb. 22 at the age of 88.

Hailed as one of the last living icons from the Civil Rights Movement in Knoxville, Booker earned his stripes as a young student and president of the student body at the historically Black Knoxville College. While there, he was jailed during protests, led the sit-in movement to integrate lunch counters and played a pivotal role in the integration of the historic Tennessee Theatre in 1963.

Booker, who served as a city councilperson and was Knoxville's first Black Tennessee state representative, left a legacy as rich as the history he tirelessly chronicled. He was an author, historian and columnist for Knox News, and could dance with the best.

He played a pivotal role in local history.

In the front row, from left, are Knoxville College students Warren Brown, Bob Booker, Olin Franklin, Lucille Thompson, Aaron Allen, John Dean and Georgia Walker, who were participating in a civil rights demonstration in March 1960.

Shortly before his death, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville granted Booker an honorary degree.

The following is a transcript of a video that was made of the occasion and played at the university's commencement this month.

Chancellor Donde Plowman

The decision to grant an honorary degree goes through the campus administration, the faculty senate, and the UT Board of Trustees. They've all approved this.

So today you join leaders of industry, journalists, activists, astronauts, government leaders, a Disney princess and Dolly Parton.

You're right up there.

As Tennessee's first African American state representative, and a civil rights leader in our community, serving on countless boards, councils and commissions, dedicated to furthering change you exemplify exactly what it means to be a Volunteer.

Your commitment to preserving our history, and your insightful reflections on our past has provided generations of Knoxvillians and Tennesseans with a deeper understanding of our community and of ourselves.

Your work has empowered all of us to create a brighter future together. Your passion and your accomplishments are an inspiration to our students and a reminder to all of us, all of us what it means to live a life of leadership and service.

It is a great privilege to present you with an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities degree from the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Congratulations, Dr. Booker.

A video of Bob Booker accepting his Honorary Doctorate of Humanities degree plays during the University of Tennessee's commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center on May 18. The civil rights icon died Feb. 22 at the age of 88.

Dr. Robert Booker

Thank you.

Plowman

Congratulations, Dr. Booker.

Booker

At 88 years old, I suffer from an aching back and my hips are gone. But yet, I didn't realize how bad it was until I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

When I called the chancellor's office and told her that I had to decline my invitation I was not let off the hook. They made special arrangements for me to accept the degree and to make the talk.

So here I am at home in hospice, to do what I agreed to do so many months ago.

It is hard to believe that I am sitting here at the age of 88 receiving the highest legal honor and I'm deeply grateful for the occasion it offers me.

Seventy-one years ago, when I was a senior in Austin High School here in Knoxville, this school was not available. The state law was enacted in 1901 that said the Blacks and whites could not sit in the same classroom together.

But that began to change during my senior year at Austin High School 70 years ago, when the University of Tennessee admitted Gene Mitchell Gray to the graduate school. That was in the fall of 1952. It was the last of several Blacks who had challenged to become students here after the first group was denied entry,

A lifetime of service: Remembering Bob Booker: Friends share their memories of the activist and historian

Dr. Plowman and officials of this great university and faculty, friends who are about to graduate, I thank you for this moment of reflecting on how savoring and important the occasion is for a high honor like this and I'm grateful.

I was in my senior year at Knoxville College when it opened the doors to graduate students. And since that time in 1961, students of all colors and nationalities have sat here in one of the greatest educational institutions in the world.

When desegregation came, there were no editorials against the university, people were not in an uproar, and the governor did not block the school door. Citizens had decided that it was the time to do what was right.

You about to graduate today have had some of the greatest experiences of your lives, and professors steeped in their particular fields have given their best thinking. They have sat beside fellow students who showed their brilliance, who have struggled with classwork or personal problems. You have hobnobbed with some of the world's greatest athletes. You were a part of their victories and defeats. I hope you saw them at their best.

And when they showed human frailty that it will help you understand and negotiate the uncertainties of society. You have gone to parties, you saw some plays. You sat through an opera where you thought the fat lady would never sing. Whether you are a graduate of Podunk high school or a hoity-toity prep school, there was much to learn at UT.

And if you kept your eyes and ears open there were a lot of good things to creep in.

But it is my fervent prayer that you will leave this place and work hard at your chosen profession, and also that you will use your experience and education to help guide your community.

Our world is still too full of hate, violence, intolerance and injustice. Only an enlightened public can change that.

It seems that there are some in government leadership who would take us back to the good old days, or probably back to the bad old days. But they don't want our children to know about the evils of slavery. They don't want our children to hear about the struggles of the LGBTQ-plus community. Some still don't believe the Holocaust existed.

I spent the first 28 years of my life here in Knoxville in a segregated society. I went to segregated schools, rode the back of the bus, drank from the colored water fountain. I had to sit on the balcony at the Bijou Theater. I had to look for a job in the colored want ads sections. I had to be buried in the National Cemetery. We had no colors, no white cemeteries to bury colored in.

We have had a free-thinking society for many years now. We could not listen to issues from both sides and make up our minds about them. Now there is a strong effort to silence even historical notes in the names of protecting our children. We have banned books, passed laws, and dared our public teachers to talk about racial injustice and the plight of being gay or transgender.

The American mind is not all that small, and it welcomes all ideas.

To be fully vetted to cherish those ideas that make us great and keep an eye on those who might do us harm, this is why we're here today. You have to read some of those banned books. You have to hear lectures from liberals and conservatives alike. You have heard the best arguments. You have prepared to meet the world in all its diversity.

I wish you the best of luck.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: 'The American mind is not all that small, and it welcomes all ideas.'
Three missionaries, including a married couple from the US, were killed in Haitis capital, Port-au-Prince, on Thursday evening.

Davy and Natalie Lloyd were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed, Natalie Lloyds father, Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker, said in a Facebook post. They went to Heaven together.

Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well, Baker said.

Mission director Jude Montis, 45, was also killed. All three worked for Missions in Haiti, Inc., which has been operated by Davy Lloyds parents for more than two decades, according to the groups website.

Davy Lloyd, 23, had a love for Haiti, his father David Lloyd told CNN. His first language was Creole. He used to tell us when he was little that someday he was going to be a missionary in Haiti.

He and Natalie Lloyd, 21, were ambushed as they left church in Port-au-Prince on Thursday evening, according to David Lloyd.

American missionaries Davy and Natalie Lloyd were killed in Haiti on Thursday, May 23, family members said. - Missions in Haiti

Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left, a post on Missions in Haitis Facebook page said.

Three hours later, the organization posted that the three missionaries were shot and killed by the gang about 9 oclock this evening. We all are devastated.

Its still unclear how exactly the missionaries were killed. The investigation into the killings is ongoing, and Haitian police have not yet released any details on them.

Local emergency response service Haitian Emergency Response Operations (HERO) assisted in coordinating and managing the operation to retrieve the bodies and transport the remains of the American couple to a hospital morgue.

Currently, we are working to retrieve the bodies of Natalie and Davy, Baker said on social media Friday night, adding that the effort will involve obtaining a waiver. After that, we have to find an airline that will be willing to do the transport. Prayers that this will all go smoothly.

He remembered the couple as people who put others before themselves, telling CNN Friday evening that he commends their bravery.

I dont think you can find a better example of people who truly had a deep love for the people of Haiti and had a vision to help them in anyway that they could and made such an impact there among the different ministries they were involved in, Baker told CNNs Kaitlan Collins on The Source.

Our last call

David Lloyd told CNN that he was on the phone with his son during the attacks.

The mission and church across the street have two security guards, but when the 23-year-old came out of the church around 6 p.m., three pick-up trucks full of guys with guns overwhelmed them immediately, he said.

The armed men dragged Davy Lloyd to the house, tied him up, and started looting the compound, according to his father, who said children from the orphanage were in the compound at the time.

After the gang left with its haul, Davy Lloyd called his father.

He was injured, and he was hurt. He was nervous, and very very scared, David Lloyd said. He was begging me to find someone to get in there and help him, and I did all I could but I couldnt locate anybody.

Then more armed men arrived, he said.

He told me, I have to go down, something else is going down. I gotta go see what it is, David Lloyd recalled. That was basically our last call.

Around that time, someone shot one of the newly arrived gang members, sparking a violent backlash, he said.

Davy went in and barricaded himself in my personal home with his wife and (mission director) Jude Montis. The gang shot that place up until they got the door busted down and shot them, and set Davy and Jude on fire.

HERO, the ambulance service, confirmed to CNN that Davy Lloyds body was found burned at the scene.

Haitian police will work with international law enforcement to investigate the killings, police spokesperson Gary Desrosiers told CNN on Friday.

This is an open investigation but we are sure we will arrest those involved. For now, were working on protecting the public and the community while actively searching for the perpetrators, he said.

This photo provided by Brad Searcy Photography shows Davy and Natalie Lloyd. - Brad Searcy Photography via AP

On Missions in Haitis website, Davy Lloyd can be seen talking about growing up in the Caribbean nation and doing manual labor on the mission compound. He previously survived a kidnapping in Port-au-Prince in 2005, when he was just 5 years old, his father said.

According to a report that year by the Tulsa World newspaper, Davy Lloyd, his sister and foster sister were abducted in a carjacking on their way home from school. But police were able to locate the kidnappers, rescue the children and quickly return them to their parents, according to the report.

We got them back 21 hours later, David Lloyd recalled.

The security situation in Haiti cannot wait

In a statement to CNN Friday, the White House said it was aware of the reports and expressed condolences while urging for the expedited deployment of UN Security Council-approved international police force to the region.

We are aware of the reports of the deaths of U.S. citizens in Haiti. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief, a national security spokesperson told CNN.

The security situation in Haiti cannot wait. That is why yesterday, President Biden reiterated our commitment to support the expedited the deployment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission to bolster the Haitian National Polices capabilities to protect civilians, restore the rule of law, and pave the way to democratic governance.

Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson also mourned the couples loss on X Friday morning, calling it absolutely heartbreaking news.

Until now, the area around the Missions in Haiti compound had felt largely safe despite the violence in the rest of the city, according to David Lloyd, who was in the country until a few days ago.

We havent really heard any gunshots in any of this. Our schools been open, the church has been functioning, the bakerys been selling bread every day, he said.

When flights resumed last week to Port-au-Princes Toussaint Louverture International Airport, Lloyd said he asked his son and daughter-in-law if they would like to leave Haiti, but they declined.

We know Haiti is a very volatile situation, we know that its dangerous, he said. But we had a good rapport with the groups in our area, and theyd left us alone. But from what I understand this was an outside group that came in initially from about a mile away, that started it all.

Natalie Lloyds father told CNN the couple didnt leave even when they had the opportunity to do so because of the children they were taking care of.

They made the decision to remain even when it got worse because they felt like if they left, then those kids would have no where to go, Baker said on The Source.

He believes the initial gang attack was just intended as a robbery, with the gangs trying to take what they can before the UNs Multinational Security Support mission arrives.

We have a pretty large mission compound, lots of stuff. With the international military force thats supposed to be coming in any day, I think the gangs are trying to get all they can get because they realize their times may be coming to an end, he said.

In a joint news conference with Kenyan President William Ruto on Thursday, Biden defended the decision not to deploy US troops to Haiti, telling reporters doing so could raise all kinds of questions that can be easily misrepresented by what were trying to do, and be able to be used by those who disagree with us and against the interests of Haiti and the United States, while pointing to material support, including equipment and training, the US has already provided to address the crisis.

The Facebook feed of Missions in Haiti has told the story of the increasing dire conditions in the country this year. The gangs are still fighting for more control and chaos rules, the organization posted April 23. It seems the world has turned their backs on Haiti and it is going to be left in complete gang control.

This story and headline have been updated with additional details.

CNNs Donald Judd and Kaanita Iyer contributed to this report.

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An American missionary couple and a third person were killed Thursday evening by gangs in Haiti. David Lloyd III and his wife, Natalie, died in a gang ambush. Fires and a motorcyclist are seen amid gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, March 1, 2024. File Photo by Johnson Sabin/EPA-EFE

May 24 (UPI) -- A Missouri state lawmaker said the killing of his daughter and son-in-law in Haiti has left his heart "broken in a thousand pieces."

David Lloyd III and his wife, Natalie, an American missionary couple working in Haiti, were killed by gangs Thursday evening.

Missouri State Rep. Ben Baker said on Facebook his daughter and son-in-law were full-time missionaries.

"My heart is broken in a thousand pieces," Baker wrote. "I've never felt this kind of pain. Most of you know my daughter and son-in-law Davy and Natalie Lloyd are full time missionaries in Haiti. They were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed."

A third person, Jude Montis was also killed as three gang trucks ambushed them, according to a Facebook post by Missions In Haiti Inc.

"This evening when Davy, Natalie and the kids were coming out of Youth at the church they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys," the post said. "Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left."

The Thursday night post described David and Natalie as fleeing to a house for safety but said another gang arrived.

"No one understood what they were doing, not sure what took place but one was shot and killed and now this gang went into full attack mode," the Missions In Haiti facebook post said. " Davy, Natalie and Jude was in my house at the end of the property using the star link internet to call me. So they are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot. Their lives are in danger."

The missions group said attempts were made to get police to send an armored car to evacuate the missionaries and negotations were also attempted with the gang, to no avail.

"Davy and Natalie and Jude were shot and killed by the gang about 9 o'clock this evening. We all are devastated," a later post said.

Days before the gang attacks, David Lloyd had expressed hope that help was coming and order in Haiti might be restored.

"Gang Rule could be ending soon," David Lloyd wrote on Facebook. "We are praying this will happen and the sooner the better. Thank you for your continued prayers."

The United Nations warned at the end of March that Haiti was in a "cataclysmic situation" with rampant gang violence. The security situation there has been deteriorating since Presdient Jovenel Moise was assassinated in July, 2021.

According to the U.N.'s Human Rights Council, the exploding violence killed at least 4,451 people in 2023 and nearly 2,000 people were kidnapped.

Gangs attacked prisons in March, helping 3,600 inmates escape.

President Joe Biden hosted Kenyan President William Ruto for the first state visit in two decades by a Kenyan president Tuesday.

On their agenda was a Kenyan police deployment to Haiti that will attempt to help restore order.

In July 2023, the U.S. State Department issued a level 4 Do Not Travel to Haiti advisory due to civil unrest, kidnapping and crime.

The departure of all family members of U.S. government employees and non-emergency American government employees from Haiti was ordered.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The latest Travel & Tourism Development Index from the World Economic Forum highlights Azerbaijan's advancement by seven spots compared to the previous report, securing the 56th position among 119 countries, the State Tourism Agency told Trend.

It was highlighted that Azerbaijan has made significant progress, securing the 2nd highest position among CIS countries across four key components.

The report, based on data from the end of 2023, indicated growth in indicators across various areas, including business environment, safety, health, hygiene, human resources, and labor market, under the "availability of appropriate environment" component. Additionally, improvements were noted in international openness, price competitiveness under "travel and tourism policy and enabling conditions," cultural resources under "factors affecting demand for travel and tourism," and environmental sustainability and socio-economic sustainability under the sustainability of travel and tourism component.

Azerbaijan maintained its top ranking in the regular transmission of travel and tourism statistics to international databases as of 2021.

Furthermore, according to the Global Terrorism Index, Azerbaijan advanced 34 positions from the previous report, securing the top spot as the safest country. Progress was also noted in inbound tourism across various factors, including seasonality, data coverage, natural heritage sites, digital payment coverage, and 3G mobile network coverage.

However, the report also highlights areas for improvement in Azerbaijan's tourism sector, such as increasing the number of short-term rental accommodations, boosting capital investments in travel and tourism, expanding bilateral agreements on air transportation services, and ratifying treaties related to biodiversity, protected natural areas, and environmental conservation.

To enhance Azerbaijan's position in the Travel & Tourism Development Index, a Tourism Development Working Group was established in October 2022 by the State Tourism Agency, comprising relevant government bodies and businesses. This initiative, part of the Business Environment and International Ratings Commission, aims to coordinate efforts among public and private entities to improve the country's ranking in the index. Currently, the group is drafting a new action plan tailored to modern challenges and objectives.

The Travel & Tourism Development Index, initiated in 2007 and updated biennially, evaluates various aspects of tourism, including its economic and social impact, sustainability, and collaboration opportunities among organizations. This index is considered an advanced iteration of the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, previously developed by the World Economic Forum.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
By Hyonhee Shin, Antoni Slodkowski and Kaori Kaneko

SEOUL/BEIJING/TOKYO (Reuters) -When South Korea hosts the first trilateral summit with China and Japan in four years beginning on Sunday, the three neighbours may struggle to go beyond surface-level diplomacy after years of deteriorating ties, diplomats and officials said.

Still, even handshakes would help maintain at least some high-level diplomacy after a pause since the last such summit in 2019, according to officials and members of the diplomatic community in Seoul and Tokyo.

President Yoon Suk Yeol will have bilateral talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday, then hold their three-way gathering on Monday.

The absence of Chinese President Xi Jinping effectively keeps military, foreign affairs, and security issues off the agenda, said Kang Jun-young, director of Center for International Area Studies at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul.

On the agenda are economics and trade, climate change, cultural exchanges, health and aging populations, science, and disaster response, according to Yoon's office.

But the gathering will be constrained by the global concerns that have increasingly divided U.S.-allied South Korea and Japan from China.

Ive been doing this for a long time  there are lots of bilateral issues between the countries, but there isnt anything we can do as a group," said one diplomat based in the region. "We compete on a lot of things and obviously South Korea and Japan are U.S. allies so that makes things extra challenging.

The diplomat said the summit would be mostly cultural and borderline meaningless, but that China would likely seek something about supply chain stability in the joint statement.

One South Korean official said just having the three countries meet again after a long time is meaningful by itself.

Even without major breakthroughs on the toughest issues, the summit could make progress in areas of practical cooperation like people-to-people exchanges and consular matters, he said.

"Thats important as it could have a direct impact on peoples lives," the official said.

Two Japanese foreign ministry officials also said they did not expect any big announcements from the meeting and that it was important for optics that the summit resumed after a long gap.

A Japanese government official said on Friday that the countries had yet to decide whether they would release a joint statement, in part because simply setting up the meeting had faced scheduling difficulties.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss diplomatic proceedings.

China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a briefing on Thursday that Beijing hopes the talks "will inject new impetus into the trilateral cooperation and provide better ways towards mutual benefit for the three countries."

RESTRICTED ACCESS

Observers say to make any progress on even baseline issues, Beijing will need to address South Korean and Japanese concerns about the increasing difficulty of operating or doing business in China.

South Korean diplomats routinely complain about the minimal level of access they get to senior officials in Beijing. They have also watched apprehensively in recent months as China's partners, Russia and North Korea, have become increasingly close.

Japanese sources based in Beijing say they are most concerned about visas, safety of staff, and IP protection, as well as the future of auto exports to China in coming years.

Another bone of contention is the opacity of China's judicial system and the arbitrary detention of foreign business people, said Akira Amari, a senior Japanese ruling party lawmaker and former trade minister.

"The CCP (Chinese Communist Party) and the government need to establish clear standards for foreign investments and foreign personnel, because without them, they can arbitrarily detain or imprison people on a whim. If they continue on that course, investments will stall, and they will close themselves off from the world," he said.

Amari, who advises a parliamentary group promoting relations between Japan and China, said Tokyo needed to have frank discussions with Beijing so "that proper relations can continue and unnecessary tensions don't increase".

U.S. INFLUENCE

The neighbours had agreed to hold a summit every year starting in 2008 but the initiative has been disrupted by diplomatic spats and the COVID-19 pandemic.

A sore point for Beijing is the closer cooperation between South Korea, Japan, and the United States in response to China's muscle-flexing in the South China Sea and Taiwan.

Yoon has worked to improve ties with Japan, which occupied the Korean peninsula and parts of China, among other areas in Asia, before World War Two.

He has also more openly sided with Washington on issues ranging from trade to democratically governed Taiwan, which China claims as its own.

The summit is taking place against the backdrop of massive Chinese war games around Taiwan in what Beijing has called punishment for the island's new president, Lai Ching-te.

The Japanese official said that Taiwan may be addressed, and that tone of such discussions may depend on what kind of military activities take place around the island ahead of the summit.

China condemned Yoon last year after he told Reuters in an exclusive interview that increased tensions around Taiwan were due to attempts to change the status quo by force, and he opposed such a change.

Relations between South Korea and China have been frayed since the installation in South Korea of the U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system in 2017, under Yoon's predecessor, to better counter North Korea's evolving missile threats.

(Reporting by Hyonhee Shin in Seoul, Antoni Slodkowski in Beijing, and Kaori Kaneko in Tokyo; Additional reporting by Josh Smith in Seoul, and Sakura Murakami, John Geddie and Tim Kelly in Tokyo; Writing by Josh Smith; Editing by Stephen Coates and Kim Coghill)
Analysis of sandwich baggie composition raises serious health concerns: 'There is not a safe level'

Analysis commissioned by the blog "Mamavation" has revealed a disturbing trend: The majority of plastic sandwich baggies sold in the U.S. contain high levels of toxic PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals."

The findings raise serious concerns about the safety of these common household items and the adequacy of current regulations to protect public health, according to the Guardian.

What's happening?

Mamavation hired an EPA-certified lab to test sandwich bags from 11 major brands for markers of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Nine of the 11 brands showed concerning PFAS levels of between nine and 34 parts per million.

While current FDA rules allow certain PFAS in food-contact plastic, experts say these limits are woefully insufficient.

"The more we look into PFAS, the more we know there is not a safe level, and the [FDA's limits] don't correspond with the science and knowledge we have of these chemicals," Maricel Maffini, an Environmental Defense Fund researcher who tracks PFAS in food, told the Guardian

Why are PFAS concerning?

Dubbed "forever chemicals," PFAS persist in the environment without breaking down. Exposure to these substances has been linked to a range of serious health issues, including cancer, thyroid problems, reduced immunity, and more.

Our main route of PFAS exposure is through contaminated food. Manufacturers frequently add PFAS to food packaging for grease-proofing and non-stick properties. However, studies show the chemicals can then leach into food at alarming concentrations.

Recent EPA findings suggest virtually no level of PFAS in drinking water is safe, underscoring that even trace amounts pose risks. Yet these chemicals remain ubiquitous in food packaging, with our sandwich baggies quietly serving up a dose of toxic pollution.

What can I do about PFAS?

Fortunately, we can take easy measures to reduce our exposure to toxic PFAS. Health advocates recommend storing food in reusable glass containers instead of plastic bags whenever possible.

If you opt for baggies, choose brands that are explicitly labeled PFAS-free. Ziploc was the sole brand in the Mamavation testing that did not show PFAS markers.

As consumers, we also have the power to pressure companies to eliminate PFAS and other toxins from their products. Shifting our spending to non-toxic options sends a strong signal that we demand safer, healthier choices for our families and environment.

Each of us can help stem the tide of PFAS contamination, starting with something as simple as our snack bags. Ditching plastic for sustainable alternatives is a small change that can add up to a big impact on our health and our planet. Let's make it happen.

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On May 24, 2022, a gunman opened fire inside Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, killing 19 children and two teachers

People June 13, 2022 cover, left, and Robb Elementary School

Alexandria Rubio usually liked to go home early after the annual end-of-year awards ceremony at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. But this year, on May 24, the 10-year-old fourth-grader decided to stay at school and celebrate with her family later. So her parentsKimberly, a reporter at the Uvalde Leader-News, and Felix, a Texas state patrol deputykissed Lexi goodbye after watching her earn the schools Good Citizen award along with a spot on the honor roll. We said that we loved her, recalls Kimberly, 33, and that we would pick her up after school.

Those would be the last words the Rubios would ever share with their daughter. At 11:33 a.m., 18-year-old gunman Salvador Ramos entered the school through an open back door and began firing more than 100 rounds inside two fourth-grade classrooms, killing 19 children and two teachers. Officer Rubio, 35, who was off duty, put on his uniform and raced to the school. He arrived to a scene of such unspeakable horror that DNA tests were needed to identify the victims: I dont want to say what I saw.

The massacre is the deadliest school shooting since 26 children and educators were murdered at Sandy Hook Elementary School nearly a decade ago, and it came just 10 days after another 18-year-old shooter killed 10 people at a grocery story in Buffalo. As the nationand the worldreacted with grief and outrage, the close-knit community in Uvalde was plunged into anguish. When is enough going to be enough? asks Vincente Salazar III, 45, whose 11-year-old daughter Layla was killed. How many times does it have to keep happening? Adds Laylas grandfather Vincente Salazar Jr.: We have 19 babies that passed away. Theyre innocent children.

Related: A Year After Uvalde School Shooting, Murals Honor 21 Victims: 'Art Has the Power to Help These Families Heal'

For the young survivors who witnessed the nightmare, the trauma is beyond measure. Inside one of the classrooms with the shooter, Miah Cerrillo, 11, covered herself in a classmates blood and played dead as bullets flew.

Meanwhile, 9-year-old Adalynn Garza shook amid the crack of gunfire for 78 agonizing minutes while multiple children called 911 begging for help as law enforcement waited outside. (The delay in entering was a wrong decision, Steven McCraw, the director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said on May 27.)

Getty Images The 19 children and 2 teachers who died in the mass shooting. From top, left to right: Eva Mireles, 44, Tess Mata, 10, Rogelio Torres, 10, Jose Flores, 10, Maite Yuleana Rodriguez, 10, Jackie Cazarez, 9, Maranda Mathis, 10. (middle L-R) Xavier Lopez, 10, Alexandria Aniyah Rubio, 10, Aliahana Cruz Torres, 10, Alithia Ramirez, 10, Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10, Uziyah Garcia, 10, Navaho Bravo, 10. (Bottmom L-R) Makenna Lee Elord, 10, Annabell Rodriguez, 10, Amerie Jo Garza, 10, Jayce Carmelo Luevanos, 10, Layla Salazar, 11, Aliahna Amyah Garcia, 9, and Irma Garcia, 48.

Inside her class, recalls Adalynn, I just sat down and stayed at a Level Zero. That means no talking and stay quiet. In their own words, first responders, survivors and loved ones share their stories.

Berlinda Arreola, 49, GRANDMOTHER OF AMERIE JO GARZA, 10

Amerie got up that morning; she kissed her brother [Zayne, 3], because thats their routine. She went to school. We live literally across the street from school, and my daughter-in-law called to tell me that she heard gunshots. My son [Angel Garza] and I work at the same clinic. We took off [toward] the school.

The place was surrounded by cops by the time we got there. We had SWAT getting there. The U.S. Marshals. Border Patrol. Texas Rangers. Little by little, everyone was showing up, and they werent doing anything. We were frustrated. They finally started breaking windows to classrooms and getting children out. And so my son, being a certified medical assistant, was trying to aid those who were injured until the EMTs got there.

This one little girl ran out, and she was saturated in blood. My son was like, Where are you hurt? And shes like, Im not; Im not; its not my blood. And Angel goes, Are you sure? Because the blood was overwhelming; it was all over her. And she said, No. It was my best friend, Amerie. Shes not breathing. So thats when we found out that [Amerie] had gotten shot. And we just lost it. Nobody could give us answers.

[At the hospital] one of Ameries classmates was there, and thats when we were told she got shot because she was trying to call 911. She was a hero trying to save her friends. And he just shot her.

Related: Uvalde School District Votes Unanimously to Fire Police Chief 2 Months After Mass Shooting

Rey, AN EMT AT THE SCENE

Our job was to transport the victims who were clinging to life or had minor injuries. One girl who I was stabilizing, she was so tiny. There was blood everywhere. She had been shot in the chest and the shoulder, and she had suffered a lot of damage. I dont think you can understand how much damage is done by a gun like that on a little kid who is 70 lbs. We were trying to stop the bleeding, but it wasnt going well. She was bleeding out.

We had about an eight-minute trip to the hospital, and I didnt want her to die in the ambulance. I looked at her and I was like, Shes just a baby. Who would shoot a baby?

As we pulled away, people were trying to look into the back windows [of the ambulance] to see who she was. Everyone wanted to see, because they wanted to make sure it wasnt their kid. A father came up to me and asked in Spanish if it was a boy or a girl inside [the ambulance]. He was looking for his son, and when I told him that it was a girl, he just ran to another ambulance. So much desperation. It was awful.

Vincente Salazar III, 45, FATHER OF LAYLA, 11

Whoever was there from the school, they told us that no children had been harmed. And we were like, Well, who is being harmed? Because theres ambulance after ambulance. They lied to us the whole day. We were there from 1 oclock in the afternoon to 11 oclock at night. All these hours had passed. When the state troopers got there, I saw it in their facesjust saw grown men crying. That tells you what you need to know. It wasnt until about 9 oclock that they pulled everybody into the room and told us that if youre still here, theres a strong possibility that your child didnt make it.

Courtesy Salazar Family Layla Salazar

Related: How a Uvalde Mother Turned Her Grief into Action: 'I Want Children to Have a Chance to Grow Up'

Christopher Salazar, 33, UNCLE OF JOSE MANUEL FLORES JR., 10

Jose really wanted to go home with me the night before, but his dad, Jose, said he had to go to school the next morning. And I was like, All right, Ill pick him up after school then.

[After the shooting] we were looking for Jose Jr. all day. The cops kept saying he was on the bus. Finally, we saw all the kids getting off [a bus]. We were praying that he would get off. I saw a little kid, he looked exactly like Jose, with a cap on. It wasnt him. That was the last bus.

Facebook Jose Flores Jr.

[Joses dad] went to the hospital, because they said there were more kids there. I showed up, and they told both of us that he had passed away, and that we couldnt even see his body because it was too bad. It wasnt a body for a dad and an uncle to see.

Miguel Cerrillo, 35, FATHER OF MIAH, 11, WHO SURVIVED

I was born and raised in Houston. I moved to Uvalde to work in the oil fields. Then I met my wife here, and I told her, Hey, lets go back to Houston. I forgot which shooting happened, but [my wife] said, Were leaving. This is a big city. Lets go back to Uvalde. We never thought it would happen here.



Theres a video of me screaming for my daughter when I saw her coming out [of the school] covered in blood. I sleep two, three hours, and Im up. I see it. I keep replaying it in my head.



Related: Families of Uvalde School Shooting Victims Announce $2M Settlement with City

Jose Cazares, 54, UNCLE OF JACKIE CAZARES, 10

I live in Shallowater, Texas, maybe about a six-hour drive from Uvalde. My younger sister called me and said there was an active shooter at Jackies school. So we called our prayer warriors to put up protection over the school. We asked for prayers that [the shooter] would change his mind. Shortly after, my brother [Javier, Jackies father] called me and he said, Shes gone.

It was just hard to believe that. I thought she was just injured. I didnt think it was going to be fatal. My brother told me that when he heard the gunshots from his house, about five blocks away, he rushed over there. He really wanted to go in, but [law enforcement] wouldnt allow him. They kept pushing him back. They were just standing there. And he was like, Let me in! Do your job! He told me, Man, all I could think about is bullets hitting my baby.

Facebook Jackie Cazares

The police department could have done more, and the school could have done more to protect our kids. [Texas governor Greg Abbott] said hed allocated half a billion dollars for school safety. Thats not enough. Its a beautiful thing to see people coming together, but why cant we get together like this all the time, instead of just on tragic occasions?

Were a strong, God-fearing family. We do believe in forgiveness, but that part is pretty hard. My mom, my brothers and sisters are torn apart. Theyre broken emotionally.

John Martinez, 21, NEPHEW OF TEACHER IRMA GARCIA, 46

I had a friend that I went to high school with. She lost two of her cousins [in the shooting], and she called me and said that one of her cousins was in my aunts arms when they found the body. My aunt, she died a hero trying to protect her students. Im sure she would refer to them as her own kids. She really was a mom to them as well. She was trying to protect them just like any mother. Thats just the way she was.

Joe Flores, 55, NEIGHBOR OF TEACHER EVA MIRELES, 44

People cry, and they dont know how to cry anymore. Im just crying for them and crying for everybody. You just get tired of crying. Its just too much to handle. Small children, the neighbor, just people looking for their families. Theyre saying, Baby, come home. I know youre there. Come home. Theyre talking to the little girls who are deceased.

Related: Uvalde School Shooting: Remembering the Victims, 1 Year Later

Evelyn Espinosa, 36, MOM OF A THIRD-GRADER AT THE SCHOOL

[After being reunited with my son] he was so scared, and he was like, Mama, Mama, Mama. We hugged and I cried. I told him he was very brave. I do not want my son to go to school in America anymore. I want to go back home [to Mexico]. This is too dangerous. I can never sleep thinking of this. When I close my eyes, I will think of these children, I will think of my son, and I will not sleep. It will be too hard.



People Magazine Cover June 2022

This story featured reporting by ELAINE ARADILLAS and ALEXANDRA ROCKEY FLEMING in Uvalde; and K.C. BAKER, CHRIS HARRIS, STEVE HELLING, DIANE HERBST and WENDY GROSSMAN KANTOR,Photograph by ILANA PANICHLINSMAN

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Read the original article on People.
(Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)

By Sara Dixon

In late June of this year, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) is expected to issue decisions on Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v the Food and Drug Administration (AHM v FDA) and Idaho v the United States. Opponents of sexual and reproductive health care rights seek to undermine trusted medical systems, and give states total abortion bans the authority to override not only federal law, but doctors judgment as well.

Historically, anti-abortion advocates have found their goals blocked by legislative and executive checks like ballot measures, and vetoes backed by public support. By playing an insidiously long game, anti-abortion lawmakers and advocates have found a way to bypass the checks and balances that reflect public opinion. Their plan: control the Judiciary.

By stacking the courts with judges more likely to rule in their favor they have opted to ignore the overwhelming public support of abortion by exploiting the judicial appointment process. In essence, our political system has been hacked, and the court system has been weaponized against us, with no immediate recourse.

Emboldened by their success in the Dobbs decision, and with confidence in a system manipulated in their favor, extremists looking to further chip away at reproductive health care and abortion access have been intentionally filing waves of lawsuits challenging established medical practice and federal law in the hopes of reaching the same SCOTUS Justices who overturned Roe.

The reproductive health care cases that have made it to the Supreme Court this year are nothing more than an engineered charade, with no basis in real or reasonable data. However, the enduring public support for reproductive rights has been successfully sidestepped. For now.

The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine (AHM) is not a legitimate health organization. It was created in Amarillo Texas, in August 2022 for the expressed purpose of filing a suit against the FDA, and drawing a specific federal judge known to be hostile towards reproductive and bodily autonomy rights. AHM has sued the FDA over its approval of mifepristone, one of two medicines most commonly used in medication abortion. Mifepristone was approved more than 23 years ago, after a robust series of clinical trials. It is a safe and effective medication prescribed for abortion and miscarriage management, and is used world wide.

In a case that never should have progressed, AHM has dragged unsubstantiated claims of safety risks through the courts, with weak arguments, retracted source material, and a lack of clarity on whether they even have the legitimacy to sue in the first place. If SCOTUS agrees with the lower courts, mifepristone will face unnecessary restrictions, further reducing abortion access nationwide. By targeting the validity of established clinical trials, this decision could also subvert the FDAs authority, potentially leaving medication approvals to the whims of politicians and judges, rather than informed and trained medical professionals and scientists.

Idaho v the United States, is a truly repugnant lawsuit that can, and will, lead to increases in maternal mortality, in the name of states rights.

The case looks to unilaterally prioritize Idahos broad abortion ban over federal law  a law that was created to save lives. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) is a federal law that requires hospital providers to administer stabilizing treatment to patients experiencing a medical emergency, which can include abortion.

However, Idaho has a total abortion ban, with three very narrow exceptions for ectopic pregnancy, rape or incest, or to save the life of a pregnant patient. As the law currently stands, should a medical professional provide an abortion outside of those named exceptions, they have committed a crime in Idaho, and would be prosecuted.

The law is intentionally vague, with imminent death being the key justifying factor in providing an emergency abortion, with no clarity on how to justify this within the eyes of law enforcement. Unless a patient is facing imminent death, doctors cannot provide an abortion, even if the patient is facing otherwise serious and irreversible harm. A patient will be made to wait and to suffer as their condition worsens, even if the doctor knows risks will compound.

The fact that anti-abortion politicians and advocates are willing to outright risk  and more than likely sacrifice  patients lives is profoundly shocking. The consequences of delayed care are harrowing and can last a lifetime. Complications from pregnancies are common, identifiable, and treatable, however delayed care in an emergency situation escalates the risk of death. Without stabilizing treatment, like abortion, patients could face severe sepsis, uterine hemorrhage requiring hysterectomy, kidney failure requiring lifelong dialysis, hypoxic brain injury, or permanent fertility issues.

When expert medical knowledge can be redefined to fit a judges ideology, doctors can be sentenced to prison or lose their medical license for providing emergency care, and patients are forced to endure physical pain and distress until their life is in danger for an unviable pregnancy, what is the measurable good in these arguments?

Put simply, there is nothing wrong with the FDAs approval of mifepristone, and doctors should be able to treat a patient with appropriate care, before a patients life is in danger, without fear or repercussions from the state. These cases, and those following, should be thrown out and called what they are: intentional manipulation of the system, and attempts at dogmatic control of our bodies.

Anti-abortion advocates, legislators, and judges think they know better than an individuals circumstances and medical professionals, and it is impossible to convince them otherwise. The stakes in this crisis are relentlessly climbing. These ongoing legal challenges in access to care, compounded with a lack of effective social support systems for those experiencing pregnancy, only serve to exacerbate inequalities throughout the health care system.

Our lives and futures should not be solely dictated by baseless claims in the courts made by bad-faith actors. Our health care should not be dependent on the beliefs of ideological justices.

The safeguards of trusted medication testing and approvals, access to health care, and empowered doctors and medical staff free from over regulation and political scrutiny is what saves, preserves, and betters lives. We must continue to push for the sanctity of individual choice and the right of self determination, by amplifying our united voice, or these ideologies will become laws more difficult to overturn, thanks to precedent

Sara Dixon is Public Policy Manager of Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania

The post Anti-abortion advocates are manipulating our courts appeared first on Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
Most drugs developed are developed based on the likelihood of high profits, which motivates investment, but researchers say this approach is not working to ensure global access to antibiotics in the face of increasing antimicrobial resistance to medicines. Daniel Karmann/dpa

Around 750,000 of the almost 5 million annual deaths caused by antimicrobial resistance - when antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines no longer work on bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites - could be prevented, researchers say.

In a damning set of papers in The Lancet, a British medical publication, researchers criticize the current approach to battling antimicrobial infections and say medicines could save more lives if pharmaceutical development were less driven by profit forecasts.

The multi-national team of doctors and scientists also explained improvements to sanitation and infection control could cut the number of people who die each year due to increasingly ineffective antibiotics.

Measures such as "improving and expanding existing methods to prevent infections, such as hand hygiene, regular cleaning and sterilization of equipment in health care facilities, availability of safe drinking water, effective sanitation and use of pediatric vaccines" should help reduce death tolls, the researchers said.

"Focusing on interventions with demonstrated effectiveness in preventing infections must be at the heart of global action to tackle AMR [antimicrobial resistance]," said Joseph Lewnard of the University of California in Berkeley.

The researchers at the same time called for "expanding access to existing and new antibiotics" and for "increasing investment in new antibiotics" to help combat the impact of bacterial infections, which, not including tuberculosis, kill 7.7 million people worldwide each year.

"Access to effective antibiotics is essential to patients worldwide," said IIruka Okeke of the University of Ibadan in Nigeria.

More investment in developing new or improved drugs is needed to counter the growing problem of germs that resist antibiotics, the cause of 4.9 million of infection-related deaths.

"The increasing number of bacterial infections that are no longer responding to any available antibiotics indicate an urgent need to invest in  and ensure global access to  new antibiotics, vaccines, and diagnostic tests," said Ursula Theuretzbacher of the Center for Anti-Infective Agents in Vienna.

"The traditional model of drug development, which depends on the likelihood of high profits to motivate investment, is not working for antibiotics," she warned.

Earlier in May, Queens University Belfast announced "a breakthrough in bacteria research," after researchers discovered genes in germs that can block an antibiotic from acting, saying the findings "could lead to increased effectiveness of currently available antibiotics."
The 'Appeal to Heaven' flag involved in Alito controversy evolved from Revolutionary War symbol to banner of the far right

The "Appeal To Heaven" flag, displayed during the last presidential election cycle, has become linked with the false claim that the 2020 election was stolen. (Michael Perez / Associated Press)

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is embroiled in a second flag controversy in as many weeks, this time over a banner that in recent years has come to symbolize sympathies with the Christian nationalist movement and the false claim that the 2020 presidential election was stolen.

An Appeal to Heaven flag was flown last summer outside Alitos beach vacation home in New Jersey, according to the New York Times, which obtained several images showing it on different dates in July and September 2023. The Times previously reported that an upside down American flag  a sign of distress  had flown outside Alito's Alexandria, Va., home less than two weeks after the violent Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of former President Trump.

Some of the rioters carried the inverted American flag or the Appeal to Heaven flag, which shows a green pine tree on a white field. The revelations have escalated concerns over Alito's impartiality and his ability to objectively decide cases currently before the court that relate to the Jan. 6 attackers and Trump's attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Alito has not commented on the flag at his summer home.

Here is the history and symbolism of the Appeal to Heaven flag.

What are its origins?

Ted Kaye, secretary for the North American Vexillological Assn., which studies flags and their meaning, said the Appeal to Heaven banner dates to the Revolutionary War. Six schooners outfitted by George Washington to intercept British vessels at sea flew the flag in 1775 as they sailed under his command. It was the maritime flag of Massachusetts from 1776 to 1971, he said.

According to Americanflags.com, the pine tree on the flag symbolized strength and resilience in the New England colonies while the words Appeal to Heaven stemmed from the belief that God would deliver the colonists from tyranny.

Read more: Upside-down flag controversy is the latest for Supreme Court Justice Alito

How has its symbolism changed?

There are a few reasons people fly Appeal to Heaven flags today, said Jared Holt, a senior analyst at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, a London-based think tank that tracks online hate, disinformation and extremism.

Some identify with a patriot movement that obsesses over the Founding Fathers and the American Revolution, he said. Others adhere to a Christian nationalist worldview that seeks to elevate Christianity in public life.

Its not abundantly clear which of those reasons would be accurate in this situation, Holt said. But he called the display outside Alitos home alarming, saying those who do fly the flag are often advocating for more intolerant and restrictive forms of government aligned with a specific religious philosophy.

The Appeal to Heaven flag was among several banners carried by Jan. 6 rioters, who also favored the Confederate flag and the yellow Gadsden flag, with its rattlesnake and Dont Tread on Me message, said Bradley Onishi, author of Preparing for War: The Extremist History of White Christian Nationalism.

"Thats the family, he said.

Read more: Supreme Court OKs shift of Black voters to shore up GOP congressional district

What about Mike Johnson?

House Speaker Mike Johnson displays the flag in the hallway outside his office next to the flag of his home state, Louisiana.

Johnson, a Republican, told the Associated Press he did not know the flag had come to represent the Stop the Steal movement.

Never heard that before, he said.

The speaker, who led one of Trumps legal challenges to the 2020 election, defended the flag and its continued use despite the modern-day symbolism around it.

I have always used that flag for as long as I can remember, because I was so enamored with the fact that Washington used it, Johnson said. The Appeal to Heaven flag is a critical, important part of American history. Its something that Ive always revered since Ive been a young man.

He added: People misuse our symbols all the time. It doesnt mean we dont use the symbols anymore.

Johnson said he had never flown the U.S. flag upside down in distress, as Alito did, and he declined to assess the justices situation and whether raising the flags at his home was appropriate.

But he called the criticism of the Appeal to Heaven flag contrived.

Its nonsense, he said. Its part of our history. We dont remove statues and we dont cover up things that are so essential to who we are as a country.

Should Alito recuse?

The House Democratic whip, Rep. Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, said in a statement that the display of the Appeal to Heaven flag at an Alito home was not just another example of extremism that has overtaken conservatism. This is a threat to the rule of law and a serious breach of ethics, integrity and Justice Alitos oath of office.

She called for Alito to recuse himself from any cases related to Jan. 6 and the former president.

There's a clear difference between the House speaker displaying the flag outside his office and a Supreme Court justice flying it and the upside down American flag outside his homes as the court is deciding cases involving issues those flags have come to symbolize, said Alicia Bannon, director of the Judiciary Program at the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University. Alito's actions dont just cross the line," she said. "They take you out of the stadium and out of the parking lot.

Alito and the court declined to respond to requests for comment on how the Appeal to Heaven flag came to be flying and what it was intended to express. Alito has said the upside down American flag was briefly flown by his wife during a dispute with neighbors and that he had no part in it.

Another blow to the court's reputation?

The Supreme Court already was under fire as it considers unprecedented cases against Trump and some of those charged for the attack on the Capitol.

An issue is that the high court does not have to adhere to the same ethics codes that guide other federal judges. The Supreme Court had long gone without its own code of ethics, but it adopted one in November 2023 in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices, including Alito. The code lacks a means of enforcement, however.

Read more: Supreme Court controversy over Alito, Thomas free trips began with Justice Scalia

The federal code of judicial ethics does not universally prohibit judges from involvement in nonpartisan or religious activity off the bench. But it does say that a judge should not participate in extrajudicial activities that detract from the dignity of the judges office, interfere with the performance of the judges official duties or reflect adversely on the judges impartiality.

Jeremy Fogel, executive director of the Berkeley Judicial Institute at the UC Berkeley Law School, said the flag revelations lead to questions about whether Alito can be impartial in any case related to Jan. 6 or Trump.

Read more: Los Angeles Times reported about Justice Thomas' gifts 20 years ago. After that he stopped disclosing them

Displaying those particular flags creates the appearance at least that the justice is signifying agreement with those viewpoints at a time when there are cases before the court where those viewpoints are relevant, he said.

A March AP/NORC poll found that only about one-quarter of Americans think the Supreme Court is doing a somewhat or very good job upholding democratic values. About 45% think its doing a somewhat or very bad job.

Fields, Mascaro and Amiri write for the Associated Press. AP writer Ali Swenson in New York contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
What is the Appeal to Heaven flag seen flying at Justice Alitos beach house?

An appeal to heaven flag is seen during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021 (Getty Images)

US Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is in trouble over a flag yet again, this time for an appeal to heaven flag seen flying at his beach house in New Jersey.

The flag was seen at the home last summer, according to The New York Times, which also reported that an upside-down American flag was seen at the Alexandria, Virginia, home of Justice Alito less than two weeks after the Capitol riot in Washington, DC.

The upside-down US flag is a sign of a nation in distress and the appeal to heaven flag has in recent years become a symbol for support of Christian nationalism and the baseless claim that the 2020 election was stolen from former president Donald Trump.

Some rioters on January 6, 2021 carried the inverted American flag or the appeal to heaven flag during the insurrection. The appeal to heaven flag shows a green pine on a white field and the use of the flags at the homes of Justice Alito has intensified concerns regarding his impartiality as the court hears cases related to the January 6 attack as well as Mr Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Justice Alito is yet to comment on the appeal to heaven flag seen at his beach house.

This is the history of the flag and what it has been seen to symbolize in recent years:

The flags beginnings

People carry an "Appeal To Heaven" flag as they gather at Independence Mall to support president Donald Trump during a visit to the National Constitution Center to participate in the ABC News town hall, on 15 September 2020 in Philadelphia (AP)

The origins of the flag go back to the Revolutionary War, according to Ted Kaye, the secretary for the North American Vexillological Association, an organization that studies flags and their meaning.

Six vessels under the leadership of George Washington flew the flag in 1775 as they sailed to confront British ships. It subsequently became the Massachusetts maritime flag the following year until 1971.

The pine tree on the white flag was intended to symbolize the strength of the colonies in New England and the written an appeal to heaven message was rooted in the belief that God would help the colonists defeat tyranny.

Why the flag is used today

An appeal to heaven flag is seen as crowds arrive for the Stop the Steal' rally on January 6, 2021, in Washington, DC (Getty Images)

There are multiple reasons people use the flag today  some use it to show their identification with a patriotic movement that focuses on the founding fathers and the American Revolution, Jared Holt at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue think tank, said. The London-based think tank tracks online disinformation and extremism.

Another reason some fly the appeal to heaven flag is to show their support for Christian nationalism.

In 2021, Paul Miller, a professor of the practice of international affairs at Georgetown University as well as a research fellow at the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, wrote for Christianity Today that Christian nationalism is the belief that the American nation is defined by Christianity and that the government should take active steps to keep it that way.

Mr Holt said those using the flag often argue for more intolerant and restrictive forms of government aligned with a specific religious philosophy.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. At the ITF Summit 2024 in Germany's Leipzig, more than 1,500 people, including transportation ministers and specialists from several international organizations, gathered to discuss "green" transportation, a source in the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan told Trend.

In its role as the forum's second vice president, Azerbaijan submitted its first national pavilion to the summit's exhibition, which it co-sponsored with the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport and the COP29 operational entity.

Rahman Hummatov, the country's deputy minister of digital development and transportation, headed a group that represented the nation at the event.

Addressing the summit, the deputy minister reminded that 2024 was declared by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev as the "Green World Solidarity Year" in Azerbaijan, and in November of this year, the country will host COP29.

During his speech, Hummatov detailed several recent developments: the expansion of the Middle Corridor, the designation of three regions in Azerbaijan as green energy zones (Karabakh, Eastern Zangazur, and Nakhchivan), micro-mobility initiatives in the country, and the complete electrification of the bus fleet through domestic manufacturing.

The summit featured meetings with delegations from several countries and international organizations, and the meetings extensively discussed current cooperation and future prospects.

The exhibition-framed national pavilion provided detailed information about Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29 this year.

Additionally, information was presented regarding the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in our country's transportation sector, projects being implemented within the "Transformation of Mobility in Azerbaijan" program, and upcoming work.

It was pointed out that a "digital twin" of Baku has been created, and based on this, work has been done to plan the latest infrastructure projects and optimize regular routes.

To note, the ITF includes 69 member countries, while Azerbaijan has been its full member since 1998.

Last year's meeting of the Council of Ministers of Transport held within the summit unanimously elected Azerbaijan as the president of the forum for 2025-2026 for the first time in its history.

This November, Azerbaijan will host COP29. This decision was made at the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11 last year. Baku will become the center of the world and will receive about 7080,000 foreign guests.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. COPthe Conference of the Partiesis the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. There are 198 countries that are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Appeals courts allows immunity defense in case of DEA agent who struck, killed Salem woman

A memorial is set up near High Street and Leslie Street SE for 53-year-old Marganne Allen, who died while riding her bicycle after being struck by a truck driven by a Drug Enforcement Agency agent.

A Drug Enforcement Administration agent who struck and killed a Salem woman in March 2023 can move forward with his immunity defense in federal court, according to a ruling this week from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

The three-panel appeals court judges denied the Oregon Department of Justice's petition to return the case to Marion County Circuit Court, allowing Samuel Landis to have his case tried in federal court.

The case was argued in the Ninth Circuit earlier this month. Landis's attorneys claimed he had shown a plausible defense for immunity and should be allowed to continue the case in federal court.

They said his work duties as a federal agent at the time of the crash made him eligible for immunity from prosecution, even though he may have broken state law.

Attorneys with the Oregon Department of Justice had appealed a federal court's decision to remove the case from state court, and said the case should be returned to Marion County Circuit Court for trial.

The appeals judges agreed with Landis' attorneys.

"Record evidence supports that Defendants federal Supremacy Clause immunity defense is colorable," the judges said in their memorandum released Monday. "Grand Jury testimony confirmed that officers sometimes violate traffic laws during surveillance operations and that at least one other officer who was part of the DEA operation during which the collision occurred violated traffic laws to execute his duties effectively."

The case now returns to the U.S. District Court in Eugene.

Fatal March 2023 crash in Salem

Prosecutors say Landis acknowledged he ran a stop sign at High and Leslie streets SE and had no lights or siren on when he hit Marganne Allen while she was riding her bike home from work on March 28, 2023.

Allen, 53, died at nearby Salem Health hospital.

Loved ones and neighbors who responded to the crash regularly add flowers and candles to a memorial at the site of the crash. Allen's family posted a note at the crash site thanking neighbors for caring for Allen until an ambulance arrived and holding a vigil in her honor.

"Marganne was a kind and loving person that would have done the same for you," her family said in the note. "To us, this will always be a sacred place and you will always be our heroes."

Allen, a mother of two, was the program manager for Oregon's Agricultural Water Quality Resources Department, according to state records.

She was remembered as an avid cyclist, high school water polo player and leader in the natural resources community.

Landis, 38, did not face immediate charges, and the case was transferred from Salem Police to Keizer Police due to a potential conflict of interest. Months later, the Marion County District Attorney's Office charged Landis with criminally negligent homicide.

Landis' attorneys argue he is entitled to use the federal defense of immunity under the Supremacy Clause because he was actively surveilling a "dangerous fentanyl supplier" while on duty, and his case was taken out of local circuit court and into federal court.

The move allowed the agent to argue for law enforcement immunity as a possible defense. Federal law provides law enforcement officers with a potential criminal defense of immunity from prosecution. Such a defense does not exist under Oregon state law.

After U.S. District Court Judge Michael McShane ruled the case would be heard in federal court, the Oregon Department of Justice appealed the decision.

DOJ attorneys said Landis failed to put forward evidence that his immunity defense was plausible.

The case then went to the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in Seattle.

A memorial is set up near High Street and Leslie Street SE for 53-year-old Marganne Allen.

Case argued in Ninth Circuit

Attorneys for Landis have argued there are instances when "breaking traffic laws is necessary for law enforcement to do their job; the failure to do so would render them 'ineffective.'"

In legal filings, his attorney cited the case of a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent who ran a stop sign in southern California, killing three women and injuring two children.

In 2012, a U.S. District Court judge said federal law gave immunity from state prosecution to federal law enforcement officers accused of crimes committed in the course of their duties, according to reporting from the San Diego Union-Tribune.

The judge said that even though the agent wasn't responding to an emergency when he killed the three women, punishing him could have a "chilling" effect on federal agents responding to actual emergencies.

The three manslaughter charges against the ICE agent were dropped.

Marion County prosecutors said Landis was not in danger or responding to an emergency at the time of the crash. There were no plans to arrest an individual being surveilled that day or to immediately stop a drug deal, prosecutors said. Other agents were ahead of him.

Both sides pointed to grand jury testimony supporting their cases during the May 7 hearing.

Oregon Senior Assistant Attorney General Philip Thoennes said Landis's ability to rely on Supremacy Clause immunity hinges on whether his actions were necessary.

"The testimony at the grand jury was that there was no urgency and there was no hot pursuit," Thoennes said. "I want to make that clear for the court."

He argued for the case to return to state court because Landis failed to meet the factual requirement to prove he was entitled to an immunity defense. He did not use lights and sirens, and there was no urgency when Landis violated state law. He had not proven a plausible defense, Thoennes argued.

Landis' attorney, Amy Potter, countered that there is a plausible argument that Landis was acting reasonably.

"It was a mistake of judgment," Potter said. "We know that it was a tragedy that happened."

In hindsight, running the stop sign was the wrong decision, but Landis made a reasonable decision, knowing the "dangerousness of the fentanyl dealer" they were tailing, she added.

Potter said Landis had shown a plausible defense and the federal judge was correct in moving the case out of state court. She asked the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to allow the case to continue in federal court, where she will argue for dismissal due to Landis's immunity.

Not a lot of case law exists on cases like Landis', but the existing ones support allowing Landis to move forward with his defense, she added.

U.S. Court of Appeals Senior Judge M. Margaret McKeown said the state-submitted petition for a writ of mandamus of the district court's decision was "a high standard to overturn."

"There is no evidence Defendant was deviating from the surveillance operation when he ran the stop sign," the appeals court judges said. "Because evidence supports that Defendants actions may have been objectively reasonable under the circumstances, the district court did not clearly err when it concluded Defendant had satisfied his burden of showing that he has a colorable federal defense."

The case now returns to federal court. A hearing date has not yet been set.

For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com call 503-910-6616 or follow on Twitter at @wmwoodwo

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Appeals courts allows immunity defense in Salem DEA agent's case
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Accreditation Commission unanimously voted to rescind the accreditation of the Aquarium of the Bay, San Franciscos Pier 39 aquarium. The aquarium was notified on May 13, following the conclusion that it wasnt meeting accreditation standards in a number of key areas, AZA said in a statement.

AZAs goal through its accreditation process is to provide members and applicants reasonable opportunities to meet the worlds most rigorous standards of animal care, said Dan Ashe, president and chief executive officer at AZA.

Some of the standards the aquarium wasnt meeting included financial instability, staffing capabilities, and employee morale and turnover. This also followed after the aquariums then-CEO, George Jacob, resigned due to a scandal involving lavish spending.

Helicopter unit, fire crews rescue fallen rock climber in Stinson Beach

Preliminary analysis showed that the combination of travel and expenses far exceeded anything that I was comfortable with for an organization of this size and an organization in our financial shape. So, the board took action and asked George to resign, Jon B. Fisher, chairman of the aquarium, told KRON4.

AZA said they had given the aquarium multiple opportunities to show proof of the progress made to address the areas of concern to obtain accreditation, but they have since failed to do so.

Standards without enforcement are simply advice, and continuous monitoring and enforcement of standards is what distinguishes AZA accreditation. We hope that the Aquarium of the Bay can quickly resolve these issues, and if so, we look forward to welcoming them back into our community of members, Ashe said.

Aquarium of the Bay has until June 13 to appeal the commissions decision. Of the approximately 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the USDA across the country, less than 10% are AZA-accredited, according to the organization.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Arab Americans who met with Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a recent meeting at the State Department said they were disappointed he did not offer any commitments to end the conflict in Gaza and other areas in the Middle East.

Leaders with five Arab American groups, including some based in metro Detroit or with other Michigan ties, met last week with Blinken and other officials at the State Department's headquarters in Washington. During the May 17 meeting, the groups called for an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war. The Free Press spoke with three people who attended the meeting.

"It wasn't positive," said Bilal Hammoud, executive director of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, in Dearborn, who attended the meeting. "Ultimately, we're disappointed that the administration didn't make any commitments, or indicate that they had a plan for an immediate resolution to this."

The Arab American Institute said this was the first time that Blinken met with an Arab American delegation specifically. Blinken has met before with Arab American advocates, but along with other constituencies, the institute said.

A State Department official told the Free Press on Thursday that Blinken met with representatives of Arab American and Palestinian American communities to hear their perspectives on the Israeli-Hamas conflict, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the situation in the West Bank. The official said the meeting was in response to a request from several Arab American leaders, adding that Blinken has had numerous meetings with Arab American and Palestinian American leaders since 2021, including after Oct. 7.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during the McCain Institute's 2024 Sedona Forum in Sedona, Arizona, on May 3, 2024.

"It wasn't successful in getting anything," said Hanna Hanania, of Virginia, a member of the Westland-based American Federation of Ramallah, Palestine, who attended the meeting. "We haven't seen any significant change in the policy."

The discussion with Blinken is the latest meeting that President Joe Biden's administration officials have had with Arab American advocates in recent months. In February, several high-ranking security officials in the administration came to Dearborn to meet with local leaders and one of them, Deputy National Security Adviser Jonathan Finer, apologized to Arab Americans, saying the U.S. government has, at times, dehumanized Palestinians in its public remarks.

In addition to Hammoud and Hanania, other Arab American leaders at the meeting with Blinken included Dearborn native Maya Berry, executive director of the Arab American Institute; James Zogby, president of the institute; Northville native Warren David, who runs the website Arab America; and John Dabeet, president of the U.S. Palestinian Council. Accompanying Blinken were other State Department officials, including Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf and Hady Amr, special representative for Palestinian affairs in the State Department.

During the meeting, Zogby and others delivered statements, according to a statement released by the Arab American Institute after the meeting. Zogby's statement read: When we met with Secretary Blinken in October of 2023, I noted that Israels indiscriminate bombing of Gaza had killed 5,000 Palestinians. I urged an immediate cease-fire to save lives. ... We come back seven months later with over 36,000 dead, most of Gazas homes and infrastructure destroyed, millions of Palestinian lives shattered, and Gaza on the verge of starvation."

The Gaza Ministry of Health said about 35,000 have been killed since Oct. 7, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people, reported Reuters.

Hammoud's statement released by the institute said that: "There must be a full stop of U.S. military funding that is threatening the security and stability of the whole region, including the cessation of attacks on sovereign Arab nations."

Bilal Hammoud, executive director of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, in Dearborn, was one of the Arab American leaders who met with Secretary of State Antony Blinken at a meeting at the State Department on May 17. He's pictured here in 2021 at the TCF Center in Detroit.

Hammoud said he expressed concern to Blinken about Israel's recent attacks in southern Lebanon, an area that many Dearborn residents have roots in. Wayne County has the highest percentage of Lebanese Americans among all counties in the U.S., according to census data. Hammoud mentioned to Blinken how in 2006, during a war between Israel and Hezbollah, Hammoud and his family were on vacation in Lebanon and struggled to escape as Israel bombed an airport. They eventually left by ship at a port evacuating people, he said. In recent months, Israel and Hezbollah have increasingly attacked each other, leading to a growing number of casualties, Reuters reported. Israel maintains it is defending itself from attacks on northern Israel by Hezbollah.

Hanania said that he has met Blinken several times over the years, including before Blinken became secretary of state. He said that in the past, Blinken and Biden have talked about the importance of equal treatment, but have not shown that over the past seven months.

Protests: Police remove tent encampment at University of Michigan protesting Israel

During his remarks at the meeting, Hanania said he spoke about Arab Americans who have been targeted by Israeli settlers in areas such as the West Bank.

"Justice must be secured for Arab American victims of Israeli violence," Hanania said in his statement to Blinken. "The targeting and killing of American citizens, and the theft of American-owned land by Israel and settlers require independent investigations and full prosecution of the perpetrators."

Hanania said he also asked Blinken to recognize a Palestinian state.

According to Hanania and Hammoud, Blinken responded to his request by saying that recognizing a Palestinian state could eventually lead to starvation in some poor countries because under U.S. law, if a Palestinian state is recognized, the U.S. has to stop all funding for the United Nations. Since the U.S. is the largest funder of the United Nations, children around the world may starve, Blinken said, according to Hanania and Hammoud.

Some Arab American advocates criticized the leaders for attending the meeting.

"Those Arab and Muslim Americans who met with Biden's team before and now with Secretary Blinken are wrong," said Imad Hamad, executive director of the Dearborn-based American Human Relations Council. "They bypassed the community's wishes not to meet. Ironic that they run out to meet, then come out expressing their disappointment and frustration."

In their statement, the Arab American Institute said the groups at the meeting with Blinken endorsed policy suggestions called In This Moment: An Arab American Agenda," which calls for equal treatment of Arab Americans and Arabs and Palestinians in the Middle East.

Also this week, Detroit businessman John Rakolta, of Bloomfield Hills, co-chair of Michigan's council to improve population growth and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, was in Israel meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reported the New York Times and other media outlets. In recent months, some in metro Detroit's Jewish community have visited Israel to show their support.

Contact Niraj Warikoo: nwarikoo@freepress.com or X @nwarikoo

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Arab Americans meet with Secretary of State Blinken, discuss Gaza
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  A San Francisco man was arrested on suspicion of homicide after police officers found a victim suffering from stab wounds on Geary Street in the Tenderloin.

Police officers found the victim just before 4 a.m. Wednesday. The victim died at the crime scene. The San Francisco Police Department said the knife attack happened on the 900 block of Geary Street, but did not specify which building on the block.

The suspected killer was quickly identified as Demetrice Ford, 47, of San Francisco, SFPD said.

Woman dies after walking into SF hospital with gunshot wounds

SFPD told KRON4, Officers were advised that (Ford) was currently still inside the building. Officers coordinated and developed a strategic plan to obtain a peaceful resolution and to have the suspect come out on their own accord.

Ford eventually surrendered to police and he was booked into jail on homicide charges. SFPD did not release the victims name.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Students gather in the courtyard of the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law building in downtown Phoenix. (Photo/FJ Gaylo)r

In a historic move in the advancement of legal education, the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University has announced a groundbreaking set of partnerships with the Navajo Nation and Dine College. These collaborations establish the worlds first tribally affiliated legal education by packaging four comprehensive law degrees uniquely tailored to meet the evolving legal needs of the Navajo Nation.

This marks a milestone in reimagining legal education, said Willard H. Pedrick Dean and Regents Professor of Law Stacy Leeds. A top public law school, working collaboratively with a tribal college and an Indigenous nation, to empower the next generation of advocates, lawyers, leaders and legal scholars, by centering tribal-specific laws and sovereignty.

Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning.

The partnerships utilize each institution's expertise and resources to provide an unparalleled set of educational opportunities. The cornerstone of this initiative is a shared commitment to strengthening the Navajo Nations cultural traditions, sovereignty, legal system and self-governance while empowering future generations to address the legal challenges facing the Navajo Nation.

[This article was first published by ASU News. Used with permission. All rights reserved.)

Bringing legal programs to Dine College has been discussed and planned for several years, involving the late Peterson Zah, the first president and last chairman of the Navajo Nation and ASUs special advisor to the president on American Indian Initiatives. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing the community's educational opportunities and legal resources.

We are taking a crucial step toward realizing the dream of a Navajo Nation law school, a vision passionately advocated by the late Dr. Peterson Zah and other leaders, said Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren. This program marks the next chapter in our journey to create a dedicated legal education system that respects and incorporates our traditions and laws.

The establishment of these degree programs at Dine College and ASU Law honors Zah's legacy and brings us closer to a future where our legal professionals are trained to serve and uplift our nation.

As part of this innovative approach to tribal legal education, Dine College announced today the creation of a Bachelor of Arts in Navajo law that will begin accepting students in fall 2024.

ASU Law simultaneously announced new emphasis areas in Navajo law within the following graduate legal programs: Master of Legal Studies and Master of Laws in tribal policy, law and government.

ASU Law and the Navajo Nation have a long-standing partnership to recruit and retain Navajo Nation citizens within ASU Laws Juris Doctor program, which features an Indian law certificate program.

These four interrelated degree programs, offered individually by Dine College and ASU Law, will maximize student opportunities and offer several pathways designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate complex legal landscapes, advocate for their community and contribute to the preservation and advancement of the Navajo Nations traditions and sovereignty.

The degree programs will collectively increase the number of legal professionals licensed to practice law on and around the Navajo Nation. Externship placements within the Navajo Nation government branches and agencies will be a hallmark of the program, within this initiatives undergraduate, graduate and professional law degree programs.

"Our mission is to furnish students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with the practical acumen to effectively apply laws and legal processes within the Navajo Nation and beyond," said Charles "Monty" Roessel, president of Dine College. "This program serves as a beacon of hope, a testament to our steadfast commitment to advancing justice and sovereignty through education."

Since its inception, ASU Law has focused on supporting the Navajo Nation legal community. In the 1970s, founding ASU Law faculty member Judge William Canby worked to recruit Navajo students to ASU Law and taught the first Indian law course. Since 2010, ASU Law offers an annual Navajo Nation Law Continuing Legal Education conference in the fall.

Countless Navajo graduates from ASU Law have completed valuable externships with the Navajo Nation, contributing significantly to the legal community. Many of these graduates have worked within or are currently working on behalf of the Navajo Nation's legal department. Additionally, numerous ASU Law alumni advise clients before the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch and in administrative proceedings.

ASU Laws Indian Legal Program was formalized in 1988 and has grown to become one of the most respected Indian law programs in the nation.

Like many rural areas of the United States, the Navajo Nation is classified as a legal desert, an area where there are not enough legal professionals to meet the needs of the population.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
Footage has emerged showing the recent destruction of a Russian S-300 or S-400 air defense system by a U.S.-made Army Tactical Missile System ( ATACMS ), a short-range ballistic missile that Ukraine has used in a string of high-profile strikes since its introduction last year. The video is perhaps the most dramatic demonstration so far of Ukraines ongoing efforts to nullify the threat posed by these long-range air defense systems, which threaten Ukrainian aircraft and standoff weapon operations over a radius of up to 250 miles , depending on the variant.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1793893686998180059

The attack seems to have taken place outside the airfield of Mospino, in the Russian-occupied Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, around 30 miles from the front lines. Ukrainian reports suggest that the strike took place on May 22, at around 12:50 local time. According to unconfirmed reports, the Russian air defense system had only been deployed to this location a day before the strike.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1793911562157412444 https://www.twitter.com/bayraktar_1love/status/1793898184692928665

The video, taken from a Ukrainian drone operating in the vicinity, details the final moments of the S-300/S-400 system before it came under attack. While the drone is obviously surveilling the target area, and recording the results of the strike, it was not necessarily responsible for acquiring the target. The Russian air defense site may well have been located by satellite, or even by its own radar emissions, via electronic support measures (ESM), something which the United States could also assist with.

While apparently unaware of the drone nearby, the Russian air defense system has certainly been alerted to the incoming ATACMS. At least one Ukrainian source claims that five ATACMS missiles were employed, but an attack involving a single missile is also a possibility.

However, in terms of returning fire, at least six missiles are seen being fired by the S-300/S-400, in a last-ditch effort to protect it, and surrounding assets, from the incoming ATACMS. The last air defense missile is fired by the S-300/S-400 only seconds before the ATACMS impacts.

Once the incoming missile arrives, we see the telltale detonation over a wide area of submunitions from the cluster warhead. This rapidly results in secondary explosions from the air defense system's own missiles  those that werent already expended.

As we have explained in the past , the version of ATACMS fitted with a cluster warhead  packed with M74 submunitions  is especially well suited for targeting air defense systems, as well as aircraft in the open, vehicle pools, ammunition dumps, and more.

Imagery had previously come to light showing the aftermath of the attack on Mospino.

Based on analysis of those earlier photos and video, the attack knocked out a pair of 5P85 series transporter-erector-launchers (TELs), plus a 96L6 radar and a command post that are also associated with the S-300/S-400 systems. Another TEL appears to have been damaged in the raid.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2PpGGNfMEk\u0026t=2s https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1793631578230263930 https://www.twitter.com/WarVehicle/status/1793631348181373129

For Ukraine, ATACMS is becoming an increasingly popular weapon to tackle Russian long-range air defense systems  both the older S-300 and the more advanced S-400.

Earlier this month, TWZ reported on the ATACMS strikes launched against the air base at Belbek in Russian-occupied Crimea. As well as destroying and/or damaging Russian combat aircraft on the base , these earlier attacks also successfully knocked out portions of an S-300/S-400 air defense system there.

In particular, it appeared that a 92N6 (Grave Stone) radar  the primary long-range detection radar associated with the S-400  was hit.

Wreckage of an 92N6 engagement radar, as used within the S-400 system, at the air base of Belbek in Crimea, May 15, 2024. via X

Russian ground-based air defenses have extracted a toll on the dwindling number of assets available to the Ukrainian Air Force as well as its Army Aviation. Suppression and destruction of these surface-to-air missiles remains a priority for the Ukrainians. At the same time, the arrival of longer-ranged weapons, like Storm Shadow and long-range one-way attack drones, in Ukrainian hands, have opened up a whole new set of targets at greater distances beyond the front lines. Ensuring these weapons survive to hit their targets is key. Thus opening up holes in Russia's air defense overlay has been an absolute top priority .

At the same time, Russian has been using the exact same set of tactics, in which Iskander-M short-range ballistic missiles are used for time-sensitive attacks on Ukrainian air defenses.

https://www.twitter.com/Archer83Able/status/1766460798581231953

The latest incident raises some concerns from a Russian perspective, not least the apparent inability of multiple missiles launched by an S-300/S-400 system to successfully defend against an ATACMS attack, although it should be recalled that these surface-to-air missile systems are primarily intended to deal with aircraft targets, with only a limited anti-ballistic missile capability.

Perhaps even more concerning is the fact that Ukraine was able to operate a drone over the air defense system long enough to capture the video and relay it back  not the first time that this has happened. A large static air defense site like this should have point-defense systems to protect it from close-in threats like this, but that often isn't the case due to how stretched air defense resources are. The continued depletion of advanced Russian air defense assets is certainly an issue that has led to critical gaps in air defenses, especially of critical targets deep inside Russia . This is an issue that is exacerbated by Western sanctions that reduce Russias ability to manufacture high-technology weapons at scale.

With the counter-air defense fight now in full swing, with ballistic missiles taking center stage as the weapon of choice, we should see these operations only increase. For Ukraine, the biggest limiting factor to these operations could be the number of ATACMS Ukraine gets and how Russia decides to reposition its air defenses in reaction to attacks. With F-16s entering the war soon, opening up holes in Russia's most advanced air defenses couldn't come at a more opportune time.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
A full day of testimony is underway in the Karen Read murder trial after there was no court on Thursday.

Murderous romance or frame job? Things to know so far in Karen Read murder trial

WATCH LIVE: Day 17 of witness testimony in Karen Read murder. trial WATCH LIVE: Day 17 of witness testimony in the Karen Read murder trial. Posted by Boston 25 News on Friday, May 24, 2024

Brian Higgins, a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agent, is on the stand. He traveled back from a funeral with former Boston Police officer Brian Albert before going out together the night before John OKeefe died.

Youre hot: ATF agent Brian Higgins testifies about flirtatious texts he exchanged with Karen Read

PLAY-BY-PLAY FROM DAY 17 OF TESTIMONY:

4:20 p.m.

Jury is sent out so Higgins can be questioned with his attorney William Connolly present. It relates to info the defense wants to bring in the trial about Higgins and info from his phone.

4:00 p.m.

Higgins says former Chief Berkowitz called him to say he found taillight evidence outside of 34 Fairview

AJ says Higgins asked a fellow ATF agent to help him extract certain information off his phone. Higgins says he wanted to give it to law enforcement

3:50 p.m.

AJ asks Higgins about evidence placed in sallyport and his card swipes to that area on 1/23. Higgins says he would only use sallyport as pass-through

Higgins says he has no recollection of being in the sallyport when KRs was delivered around 5:36 pm on 1/23. AJ says the video from the precise time is missing

3:30 p.m.

AJ shows records from Canton PD of the areas where Higgins key card was swiped including the sallyport. AJ says Higgins was moving around Canton PD during the day of January 23rd.

AJ asks Higgins if he was getting info from Canton Police and providing it to Albert. He says no

3:10 p.m.

AJ asks how many interactions with the phone it would take to dial if the phone was locked. Higgins says in previous testimony he said something must have happened but i dont remember any phone calls

Higgins says nobody from law enforcement asked to look or inspect his vehicle. He says I would have been happy to show them

3 p.m.

AJ: You and Brian Albert exchanged 2 phone calls at 2:22am? BH: I have no recollection of those phone calls

AJ says call record between Higgins and Albert shows the calls were 5 minutes before the how long to die in cold Google search. Higgins says its possible it was a buttdial.

2:55 p.m.

Ok, were back in session

2:35 p.m.

Quick break. A juror may not be feeling great. Its hot in the courtroom.

They are bringing a fan in for the jury

2:30 p.m.

AJ: If there was a body there, you certainly would have seen that? Lally: Objection Judge: Sustained

Jackson says during previous statements Higgins said he went to Canton PD to administrative work. Higgins says moving the cars is administrative work

2:25 p.m.

Higgins says he was at the Albert residence about a half hour, maybe an hour. He says he wanted to go home but then Jackson says you didnt go home, you went to Canton PD. Higgins says yes, I wanted to move vehicles

2:15 p.m.

AJ: In prior testimony (feds) you said you observed a tall dark hair male enter the Albert house BH: I said they might of

2 p.m.

AJ asking if KR ignored BH at Waterfall AJ: Did she greet you? BH: No AJ: She basically ignored you the entire evening? BH: Thats not how I would interpret it AJ: Like you didnt even exist BH: I did not feel ignored

1:45 p.m.

Back in session. AJ resumes his cross of Brian Higgins

1:00 p.m.

Judge calls for lunch recess. 45-minute lunch today, not an hour. She wants testimony to go to 4:30 today if there are no conflicts

12:55 p.m.

AJ: She ghosted you...

BH: Not at all

12:50 p.m.

AJ: My question is were you or were you not sexually attracted to my client?

BH: Yes

12:40 p.m.

AJ: You do know that BA has a reputation for being a fighter? ADA Lally: Objection Judge: Sustained

12:30 p.m.

BH says hes currently assigned to divisional operations with ATF. Lally objects when AJ asks if he was taken out of the field - sustained

12:25 p.m.

Jackson points to a man seated behind him and asks BH if thats his attorney. BH says no, but he says his attorney is in the courthouse and they met before his testimony. AJ asks why he needs an attorney.

12:20 p.m.

BH says the last text he received from KR was John died. He says thats the last communication he had with her.

12:15 p.m.

Brian Higgins: Im not proud of these text messages, but I take responsibility at the same time. He says he was uncomfortable when KR came over and it was a face-to-face convo.

11:55 a.m.

In one text KR tells BH that things between her and JO had deteriorated. KR tells him about the Aruba trip where she thought JO had kissed Etta Sullivan.

11:45 a.m.

Texts between Brian Higgins and Karen Read. In one KR asks BH to come over and based on further texts it appears BH did. BH is blue bubbles

Brian Higgins and Karen Read Texts

11:40 a.m.

Higgins says in the 9 days he texted with Read he thought was the defendant interested in me? I was having a hard time accepting what was happening.

11:30 a.m.

BH is reading from his texts with KR. He refers to her in court as the defendant. In one text she says BH is hot and he responded that the feeling is mutual. Later Higgins says, The defendant kissed me... not like a friend

11:20 a.m.

BH says the first time KR texted him was on 1/12/22. She joked about a previous interaction they had where BH says KR rolled down her window and said Get the f away from me my husband is a Boston Cop. He said Read didnt know it was him when she made that comment

Court has returned after morning recess.

10:25 a.m.

Judge tells jury to take a 20-30 minute recess while she has a sidebar with prosecution and defense

10:20 a.m.

ADA Lally shows BH 56 pages of text messages he exchanged with KR. Higgins says he did not delete any of his texts with KR.

Higgs texted JO at 12:20 on 1/29. are you coming here??? he says there was no response

10:10 a.m.

BH tells ADA Lally It didnt make sense they never showed up when asked about his initial reaction to hearing that JOs body had been found outside 34 Fairview.

BH says he provided Trooper Yuri Bukhenik and Trooper Michael Proctor screenshots of text messages with JO and KR. I wanted to be fully transparent, he says

10:00 a.m.

Higgins says he got home to West Roxbury a little before 2 a.m. He says got something to eat, and maybe a couple more drinks before falling asleep. He says both his work and personal phones were blowing up around 6:30ish

9:50 a.m.

BH says the reason he went to Canton PD after 34 Fairview was to move the vehicles assigned to him so the plow could clear the parking lot. He says he didnt want to have to wake up and do it the next morning.

9:45 a.m.

ADA Lally asks BH if he ever saw KR and/or JO in or around 34 Fairview. He says, absolutely not.

9:40 a.m.

BH on when he left 34 Fairview: I would guesstimate it was anywhere between 12:30  1 oclock I was probably one of the first people to leave He says the mood was happy.

9:35 a.m.

BH says he texted KR at the Waterfall, um well. I guess you can view it as a flirty text he says.

9:30 a.m.

Brian Higgins (BH) on his relationship with Brian Albert Sr. (BA) hes a good friend, hes a coworker. I had been working closely with his unit.

9:20 a.m.

Higgins becomes emotional when asked why he had an office at Canton PD. He says then Chief Berkowitz offered it after his sister passed away.

9:15 a.m.

Brian Higgins tells ADA Lally hes been a special agent with the ATF for nearly 15 years. He lives on the Cape now but owned a home in Canton that he sold around January 5th, 2022

9:14 a.m

Brian Higgins is called to the stand.

Good morning from day 17 of testimony in the Commonwealth vs. Read.



-Brian Higgins is expected to be on the stand today. Hes an ATF agent and friend of Brian Albert who was at the Waterfall and later 34 Fairview. Higgins and Read had been texting on the DL, according to court pic.twitter.com/JptaL1QAqg  Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) May 24, 2024

In the final pretrial hearing, Defense attorney David Yannetti claimed Higgins coaxed OKeefe to the Alberts house. Yannetti also said Higgins destroyed his phone by changing his number and cell carrier after OKeefes death, which Albert confirmed on the stand.

Higgins has already been seen in this trial at least once when a video from inside the Waterfall bar in Canton appeared to show Higgins and Albert getting into fighting stances. Albert testified that they were playing around.

Higgins was also the first person Albert called after learning of OKeefes death but cell phone data presented as evidence showed Albert also called Higgins at 2:22 a.m. hours before OKeefes body was found. Albert said he inadvertently made that call to Higgins during an intimate situation with his wife.

The Boston Herald is reporting the prosecution has put Higgins medical records on file in a notice of discovery. The report indicates its a five-page copy of his medical records but its unclear what they show or why they have been added to this case.

After a night out drinking at several bars, prosecutors say Read dropped OKeefe off at a party at the Albert familys home at 34 Fairview Road in Canton just after midnight and intentionally backed over him with her SUV in January 2022. Its alleged that she drove away and returned hours later to find him in a snowbank.

The defenses theory is that OKeefe was actually beaten up inside the Albert home and dragged outside in a snowstorm and that the Albert family is at the center of an effort to frame Read.

Read, 44, of Mansfield, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of second-degree murder in OKeefes death.

The trial resumes at 9 a.m.

RELATED:

Sisters who vacationed in Aruba with Read, OKeefe before his death detail tense moments during trip

Hos long to die in cold: Defense highlights Google search for hypothermia in Karen Read trial

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ATF director questioned on March raid of home of Little Rock airport executive Bryan Malinowski

ATF director questioned on March raid of home of Little Rock airport executive Bryan Malinowski

WASHINGTON D.C.  Questions from U.S. lawmakers continue for the second day in a row about the circumstances leading to the death of Little Rock Airport Director Bryan Malinowski.

Thursday, lawmakers asked the director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) about the March early morning shootout that led to Malinowskis death and one agent being injured.

D.C. lawmakers hold hearing on Little Rock Airport Executive Bryan Malinowskis death

Director Steven Dettelbach was careful not to comment specifically on the search warrant because of an investigation in the hands of the Pulaski County prosecutor. However, throughout three and a half hours of testimony, there were some revelations.

There are numerous different things that I believe that are out that may not be shown to be the facts when the investigation happens, Dettelbach said.

The ATF director stated he was not aware of the mission which turned deadly until after the fact, and that the agency does 11,000 of these types of missions a year.

You got to admit this is a little unique, said House Judiciary Committee Chair and Ohio Republican Rep. Jim Jordan.

The highest-paid official in the municipal government of Little Rock, Arkansas, making $260,000 running the airport. No criminal background, history, nothing and hes dead at a pre-dawn raid when it sure looks like you could have served this search warrant when he was not there, but you chose not to, Jordan said.

The oversight hearing revealed new videos showing ATF agents gathering in a Walmart parking lot near Malinowskis home on Mar. 12 and the same spot, on Mar. 19, the day the warrant was executed. Malinowskis family alleges the first attempt was canceled because Bryan was not home.

U.S. House Judiciary Committee asks ATF for details of March raid on Malinowski home in Little Rock

Republican Rep. Darrell Issa of California questioned why Malinowski needed to be home since there was no arrest warrant issued, just a search warrant for dealing with firearms without a license and unlawful acquisition of a firearm.

So you alleged a crime, but you didnt seek to arrest him? Issa asked.

Its not fair to do this during the pendency of a criminal investigation, Dettelbach said in questioning.

Lawmakers asked some general questions about tactics, policies and body cameras. Not much was shared to avoid giving a blueprint to the public, but Dettelbach stated three years after the implementation of body cameras became mandated within ATF, a third currently have them.

How long will this take to implement? Democratic Rep. Jose Luis Correa of California asked.

Currently with what we have now, without anything else, we will be implemented across by the end of 2026, Dettelbach responded. If theres more resources we can try to speed that up.

$47.5 million was cut from the ATFs $1.7 billion budget last year when President Joe Biden requested the budget be increased to $1.9 billion.

Regarding Malinowskis case, the ATF director said the most common firearm trafficking now is selling guns without a license and 60% of those trafficked are going to felons and those prohibited from having them.

Firearms trafficking is not a victimless crime, Dettelbach said multiple times.

Just over a week ago under an ATF rule change in compliance with the 2022 Safer Communities Act, those who can legally sell guns privately changed.

Arkansas gun owners react to new ATF regulation to close gun show loophole

How many firearms does someone have to sell to be engaged in the business of firearms dealing?, Republican Rep. Matthew Louis Gaetz II of Florida asked.

Dettelbach said the law does not give a number but focuses on different behaviors and intents.

There is now more information than ever in the form of that rule for specific conduct based, Dettelbach said before being cut off by Gaetz.

I know but I think just for a regular person, more information than ever is less helpful than if you sell three guns youre not a dealer, but if you sell four guns you are a dealer, Gaetz said.

A Texas judge recently stopped the implementation of the new ATF rule, and an Arkansas judge has heard arguments and is yet to rule a decision.

Its a senseless tragedy Family attorney speaks on death of Bryan Malinowski following Tuesday ATF raid

The Malinowski family attorney sent a statement following the hearing:

ATF killed Bryan Malinowski to enforce a law nobody understood. The ATF Director was unable to explain his new version today. Last Monday, DOJ attorneys were reportedly unable to explain ATFs new law to US District Judge Moody in Little Rock. That adds up to unconstitutionally vague law enforcement. Its truly outrageous. Bud Cummins, Malinowski family attorney

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Athens teen shot in the head, man arrested

A 20-year-old has been arrested for shooting a teen in the head, according to Athens Clarke County Police.

Early Monday morning, officers responded to a shooting call near Broad Street and Pulaski Street, finding a 17-year-old man with a gunshot wound.

The shooting occurred not far from the University of Georgia campus.

It is unclear exactly what led up to this shooting.

The unidentified victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment where he remains.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Officers arrested 20-year-old Quavarez Sanders of Athens in connection to this shooting.

Sanders was arrested on Thursday and charged with aggravated assault and aggravated battery.

Anyone with information on this shooting is asked to contact Detective Johnson at 762-400-7060 or Paul.Johnson@accgov.com.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Azerbaijan's working group on the development of a national electric mobility plan created by order of the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan has held a regular meeting, a source in the Azerbaijan Renewable Energy Agency (AREA) under the ministry told Trend.

Opening the event, AREA Director Javid Abdullayev highlighted the importance of boosting the electric mobility transition and improving the regulatory framework in accordance with the objectives arising from the development of the national plan.

The meeting pointed out ongoing efforts to streamline the regulatory framework for expanding the use of electric vehicles and electric charging stations, attracting business entities to work on creating the stations.

The head of the AREA Hydrogen and Green Technologies Department Rena Humbatova informed about the work done and the current situation.

The meeting discussed proposals on an action plan for streamlining the regulatory framework explored by Turan Energy, a company participating in the national plan development.

Additionally, the event considered opinions and proposals on nationwide infrastructure development models for electric charging stations, and carbon tax concerns.

To note, the meeting involved representatives of the working group and other stakeholders.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Attorney Wrote Himself into Jeweler's Will, Then Plotted to Have Him Murdered

Daniel "Hutch" Hutchinson was fatally shot in a conspiracy engineered by his lawyer, Marco Bisbikis

Hutch Jewelry/Instagram, Oakland County Sheriff Dan Hutchinson (left) and Marco Bisbikis

Two Michigan men were convicted of first-degree murder among other offenses for the 2022 killing of a jeweler whose attorney  one of those convicted  wrote himself into the victims will before ordering a hit on him.

Daniel "Hutch" Hutchinson, 47, was fatally shot on June 1, 2022 in Oak Park, Mich., in an elaborate and shocking scheme perpetrated by his attorney Marco Bisbikis and accomplice Roy Larry, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said in a statement on Thursday.

Larry is accused of being the one who pulled the trigger, while Bisbikis hatched the plan for the killing, per FOX 2 Detroit.

The duo were part of a larger group, two of whom  Darnell Larry and Angelo Raptoplous  pleaded guilty to solicitation to commit murder and testified against the co-defendants, The Detroit News and FOX 2 Detroit report.



Oakland County Sheriff Roy Larry

Hutchinsons wife Marisa Hutchinson was in the car with him during the shooting and survived, per the outlets. Marisa, who was reportedly also targeted, testified during the eight-day trial.

Assistant Prosecutor John Skrzynski said during the trial that Bisbikis made himself a trustee in the Hutchinsons trust before ordering the hit on the couple, according to The Detroit News. The couple were unaware of Bisbikis maneuver, which would have ensured his access to the trust once they died.

Darnell said he was hired by Bisbikis for the killing but passed the job on to Roy, his cousin, per FOX 2 Detroit.



Hutch Jewelry/Instagram Dan Hutchinson

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Millions of dollars belonging to Hutchinson that the jeweler did not report to the IRS were stored in Bisbikis custody, Marisa testified during the trial, per FOX 2 Detroit.

Following the murder, Bisbikis maintained contact with Marisa and reassured her he was looking for Daniels killer while also giving her financial advice, she testified during the trial, per the outlet.

Bisbikis and Larry were convicted of first-degree premeditated murder, conspiracy to commit premeditated murder, assault and felony firearm charges, per McDonald's statement.

They are awaiting their sentencing.



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DENVER (KDVR)  The owner of a moving company based in Aurora was sentenced to serve six years in the Department of Corrections after a jury convicted him in February of two counts of theft.

Huseyn Nemat-Zoda, 40, was the owner of H&M Relocation Services when the company allegedly failed to deliver about $151,000 worth of customers property. Prosecutors said Nemat-Zoda preyed on people who were moving cross-country and didnt have the time or leverage available to fight back.

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Nemat-Zoda originally pleaded not guilty on Jan. 11, and faced trial from Feb. 20-23, according to court records.

The two theft charges stem from June 2021 when Nemat-Zoda was hired to relocate their possessions from Greeley to another state. Their items never arrived, according to court records, and Nemat-Zoda eventually stopped responding to the victims calls.

The victims belongings were located by authorities in a self-storage business in Englewood after the victims filed a police report with the Greeley Police Department.

He knew what he was doing the whole time and nothing stopped him, Weld County Deputy District Attorney Daniel Skelton said during the sentencing hearing on May 9, according to the agency. People who believed in the good of others were then at his mercy as he took their money and strung them along. He told them promise after promise that he never intended to keep. He took advantage of desperate, trusting people to enrich himself.

The victims also spoke at the sentencing hearing according to the Weld County District Attorneys Office.

Former social worker sentenced after making false child abuse claims

Every week we would get our hopes up that our belongings would show up at our new house, but they never did, one victim reportedly said. It was a financial and emotional nightmare. He has hurt us in a way that has broke us.

Owner is also facing felony theft charge in Denver

Nemat-Zoda is also facing one count of felony theft in Denver District Court for using allegedly his company to steal from another Colorado resident moving out of state. The victim said she contracted with H&M Relocation Services in June 2022 and agreed to pay about $3,383 to Nemat-Zoda in three installments.

However, she alleges that when Nemat-Zoda arrived to move, he first said she had not disclosed several items during the estimate process, and that payment was then due in full because the truck was packed. The victim alleges that she went to get funds to pay Nemat-Zoda, and when she returned, he was demanding thousands more in payment.

That victim is alleging her items were held for about three months, even allegedly threatening to donate the items to charity, as the moving company owner demanded additional payment. She filed a complaint in Denver, alleging Nemat-Zoda stole over $100,000 worth of her property.

Nemat-Zoda entered a plea in the Denver case, but on Oct. 19, 2023, withdrew that plea. His legal counsel is scheduled to appear for the case on May 31, according to Colorado Court records.

Driver pleads not guilty in death of Boulder teen cyclist

Investigators with the Denver DAs Office have said they do not believe this was an isolated incident with the suspects company, H&M Relocation Services. In 2022, the investigators asked anyone who believed they might have been a victim of Nemat-Zoda to call the Economic Crimes Unit at 720- 913-9179.

According to Colorado court records, Nemat-Zoda was facing four counts of theft for the Weld County case, but the district attorneys office dismissed two of the charges. According to the Department of Corrections inmate locater, Nemat-Zoda is currently being held in Denver. He will be eligible for a parole hearing in December 2026, according to the DOC.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will temporarily transfer the reins of the Defense Department to his deputy on Friday evening for a scheduled medical procedure, according to his spokesperson.

The non-surgical procedure, which is elective and minimally invasive, is related to his previous bladder issue, which landed him in the hospital in February, not his diagnosis of prostate cancer, Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said in a Friday statement. The procedure will take place at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Since Austin will be temporarily unable to perform his functions and duties during the procedure, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks will serve as the acting defense secretary, Ryder said.

The Pentagon has notified the White House and Congress about the transfer of power, Ryder said. The statement did not say how long Austin would be in the hospital, and a spokesperson did not immediately respond to questions from POLITICO.

Its the latest in a series of medical issues for the Pentagon chief since he was diagnosed with prostate cancer late last year. Austin underwent a prostatectomy to treat the cancer on Dec. 22, but was taken by ambulance back to the hospital on Jan. 1 with complications from the procedure due to a urinary tract infection.

Austin did not inform the White House, Congress or his top staffers about his medical emergency for days, setting off a storm of controversy. He did not tell President Joe Biden about his cancer diagnosis until Jan. 9, when Austin also released a statement to the media.

Austin later apologized for the delay in disclosing his health issues, and the White House has since released new notification guidelines for Cabinet members when they need to temporarily shift their authority.

We did not handle this right. I did not handle this right. Austin told reporters at the Pentagon in February.

Austin's failure to notify Biden and congressional leaders of his hospitalization drew bipartisan criticism on Capitol Hill, and the Pentagon squared off with members of the House Armed Services Committee in a hearing on the episode in February.

Though House Republicans were dissatisfied with Austin's testimony, the event surrounding his hospitalization didn't come up during the Armed Services panel's debate over its annual defense policy bill this week.

But the House did approve bipartisan legislation in early May, led by Armed Services members Jen Kiggans (R-Va.) and Don Davis (D-N.C.), to require notification to the White House and congressional leadership within 24 hours when any member of the National Security Council becomes medically incapacitated or 24 hours before any planned medical procedure that will result in incapacitation.

Connor OBrien contributed to this report.
Authorities say Louisiana man weighted his catch in $100K fishing contest

A Louisiana man was busted for putting weights into fish during Big Bass Splash fishing contest in Toledo Bend. Aaron Moreau tried to enter fish in the contest with 2.59 pounds of lead weights in them. Photo courtesy of Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries

May 24 (UPI) -- A Louisiana man was arrested for allegedly placing weights in fish during the recent Big Bass Splash fishing contest on Toledo Bend.

Aaron Moreau turned himself in after the alleged fraud.

"After catching the fish, he put lead weights down its throat and attempted to weigh in the tournament," Wildlife and Fishery agent Dustin Nash said.

Officials at the fishing tournament held the fish and notified Wildlife and Fishery agents. Moreau fled the scene but an arrest warrant was issued.

He then turned himself in.

Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries agents found lead weights in fish entered in the Big Bass Splash fishing contest in Toledo Bend. Aaron Moreau fled the scene but turned himself in after an arrest warrant was issued. The grand winner in the contest gets a prize worth $100,000. Photo courtesy of Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries

The contest had hourly weigh-ins, paying prize money to those who caught the biggest fish.

Fishing fraud is punished with up to a $3,000 fine and up to a year in jail.

The grand winner in the contest was slated to get a $100,000 prize package. Prizes included a boat and a truck.

However, the agents allegedly found 2.59 pounds of weights in a fish caught by Moreau.

The weights were shaped like fish, authorities said.

The alleged use of weights in a fishing competition isn't necessarily a new idea.

Two men were sentenced to 10 days in jail and a year of probation in 2023 for weighting fish during the Lake Erie Walleye Trail contest.

Jacob Runyan and Chase Cominsky had won a series of fishing tournaments that led up to their efforts to deceive the Lake Erie contest judges.

In that case, tournament director Jason Fischer noticed that the fish weighed more than expected for their size and found 10 weights inside the walleyes, eight weighing 12 ounces and two weighing eight ounces.

Walleye fillets were also stuffed into the fish to make them even heavier, authorities said.
Authorities respond to reports of over 100 cars racing down street in Thousand Oaks; 2 arrested

Law enforcement officials responded to multiple calls of over 100 vehicles racing along a main thoroughfare in Thousand Oaks and ended up arresting two men in connection with the illegal street takeover.

Reports of illegal street racing activities involving 100 to 150 cars in a pack along Westlake Boulevard first came in just after 6:10 p.m. Sunday, the Ventura County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

Police standoff on 91 Freeway in Orange County ends, massive traffic jam still in place

The initial caller stated they observed over 100 vehicles racing on Westlake Boulevard going southbound towards East Potrero Road, VCSO stated. Within minutes of the first call, [sheriffs dispatch] received multiple additional calls from concerned residents in the areathe callers described seeing 100 to 150 cars in a pack that were driving recklessly, aggressively and racing each other.

Thousand Oaks Police Department officers were already in the area when the calls came out and quickly responded to the scene. Upon arriving, they observed illegal racing activities, including speed contests and the exhibition of speed.

Most of the participants of the street takeover  said by police to be members of an out-of-county car club attending an organized event  left the area and traveled south on CA-23 when the police arrived, however others were still racing and were stopped by TOPD officers, the Sheriffs Department confirmed.

Video shows Southern California street takeover mob attack deputys cruiser

In conclusion, two subjects were arrested for engaging in a speed contest, VCSO said. Additionally, multiple vehicles were cited for various vehicle code infractionsthe two vehicles engaged in racing were impounded by the TOPD for 30 days.

Authorities identified the two men as Brylen Baucham, 25, of Harbor City, and Sergio Cruz, 29, of Los Angeles.

The Ventura County Sheriffs Office and Thousand Oaks city officials have a zero-tolerance policy for any illegal street racing activities. Vehicles dont have to be racing to be impounded; according to VCSO, the California Vehicle Code prohibits aiding, abetting or blocking authorities.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Authorities seek additional victims of accused child molester who worked as a babysitter

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Law enforcement is asking for the publics help identifying additional victims of a man accused of child molestation and other sex abuse crimes who is believed to have worked as a babysitter with multiple families around the Portland metro area.

Familys $9 million lawsuit alleges Central City Concern held dead body of tenant for 2 months

On Thursday, investigators arrested 23-year-old Jamil Holbrook, of Oregon City, on multiple warrants, including alleged possession of sexually explicit material involving children, the Clark County Sheriffs Office said.

The initial investigation into Holbrook began on March 28. It was then that the CCSOs Special Victims Unit investigated claims of an adult taking photos of children in an inappropriate manner at a daycare center in the Salmon Creek area of Washington, authorities said.

The daycare center cooperated with law enforcement and the related victims were identified.

Makes me sick: Detectives search for crime syndicate pickpocketing Costco shoppers

After being arrested, Holbrook was charged with first-degree child molestation and first- and second-degree possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

The sheriffs office said theyve uncovered numerous unidentified victims and are asking the public to help identify potential additional victims.

Anyone who has received childcare services from Holbrook is asked to contact the Clark County Sheriffs Office.

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AURORA, Colo.  RFK Jr.s supporters have no concern whatsoever about a worm that (allegedly) ate a chunk of their presidential hopefuls brain a dozen or so years ago.

At an overflowing rally Sunday in a refurbished warehouse in the Denver suburbs, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s brain worm didnt make much of an appearance, despite dominating the headlines after the revelation about the long-shot candidate just a few weeks prior. Instead, the rally highlighted the same issues that have helped Kennedy turn heads among Trumps more conspiratorial supporters.

A sprinkle of T-shirts throughout the almost entirely white crowd implored others to Buy Bitcoin. People wearing septum rings and hats with the slogan Make Earth Great Again mingled while a band played Fortunate Son onstage without a hint of irony.

In conversations with HuffPost, enthusiastic attendees readily employed buzzwords from the activist lawyers books to explain their support. Phrases like big pharma, forever wars and the chronic disease epidemic were interspersed with jabs at Anthony Fauci and gripes about toxins in our food and water causing a litany of problems.

Fundamentally I think the problem is that our political system has become calcified and a two-party system, said Evan, a 29-year-old in software sales who declined to share his last name.

Theres too much corporate capture, he continued. So you end up voting on mostly superfluous issues because the foundational bedrock of a two-party system is that theyre both owned and bought by the same aristocracy.

When asked, none expressed a lick of consternation about Bobbys brain parasite. Several hadnt heard the news and said they would need to do their own research. But the effect of political ear worms  memorable if often vaguely defined phrases  was apparent.

Notably absent was any talk about issues that are currently dogging Trump-era Republicans  especially abortion. None of the Kennedy supporters who spoke with HuffPost mentioned abortion on their own, yet all said they were very concerned about it when prompted. All had widely different takes. (This may explain RFKs own inconsistencies on the matter.)

Ivery, a Black man who wanted to only be identified by his first name, felt strongly that abortion should be banned six weeks after conception.

Others, like 66-year-old Kathryn Gebhardt, strongly disagreed. Nobodys over my body, she said.

Another attendee, Pat Henry, told HuffPost she thought the issue should be left to the states to decide, echoing Donald Trumps own spin on the issue.

A 69-year-old retired engineer named Wayne Young declined to share his thoughts entirely, calling it a lose/lose subject and a wedge issue that causes dissension and friction.

Kennedy speaks during a voter rally at The Hangar at Stanley Marketplace in Aurora, Colorado on May 19, 2024. Helen H. Richardson/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images via Getty Images

Others had more unique pet causes. Stephen Freas, a 47-year-old who told HuffPost hes currently homeless and unemployed, hoped Kennedy would expedite the release of information concerning the assassination of his uncle.

If Kennedy wins, he should have the authority to release the JFK files, which I think would be super awesome, he said. Freas added that Kennedys pledge to end endless wars was also a motivating factor in his support.

Another attendee  a Republican who voted for Trump in 2020 and asked to remain anonymous  just wanted to hear from a candidate whos not a Trump asslicker.

Judging from the applause lines during Kennedys speech, Sundays crowd skewed more anti-Biden than anti-Trump. But its unclear how much of a Biden spoiler Kennedy might actually be in the state, should he make the ballot: Of the 11 people who spoke with HuffPost, only two voted for Biden in 2020. Two others (one Republican and one Democrat) voted for Trump. The rest voted for Libertarian Party nominee Jo Jorgensen or wrote in their own names.

One of the Biden voters, an Afghanistan combat veteran turned psychedelic therapist named Mark Cunningham, said he admired RFKs open-mindedness and humility, including about his sons use of Ayahuasca to process the death of his mother.

All of our politicians should be required to have a date with Ayahuasca, he said, laughing.

Kennedys entourage included former Pussycat Dolls member Jessica Sutta, a self-described vaccine injury advocate who told the crowd she was severely injured by Modernas COVID vaccine. We need to get that off the market, she told the audience.

Team Kennedy communications director Del Bigtree, a prominent anti-vaccine conspiracist, introduced the candidate while slamming the COVID vaccine for having made a mutant virus and blaming Biden for COVID policy decisions that had actually happened under Trump.

Kennedy himself took the stage two hours late, a delay necessary to allow the unexpectedly large crowd to filter through security. He offered no specifics on abortion, guns or protecting the border, mainstays of the Trump and Biden campaigns that he dismissed as mainly culture war issues.

Instead, the candidate zeroed in on the budget deficit and protecting rights already enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, like free speech, all while laying out a strategy to the November ballot that runs through the CNN presidential debate on June 27.

The campaign is now engaged in an all-out sprint to earn a place on the debate stage. CNN has offered him a podium if he can both 1) poll above 15% in four high-quality national polls and 2) earn a spot on the ballot in enough states to theoretically win 270 electoral votes.

Kennedy claimed without evidence Sunday to have already secured ballot access in states that could grant him a potential 201 electoral votes, with enough signatures for 343 by June 20, the last day to qualify. Hes also polled at 16% in two polls, with two more remaining.

Related...
SAN DIEGO (Border Report)  Tourism and Chamber of Commerce officials in Tijuana are expecting more than 60,000 Americans, mostly from Southern California, to visit Baja this holiday weekend.

This is an important holiday in the United States. Its a day to honor those who have fallen defending their country, said Karim Chalita Rodriguez, president of Tijuanas Convention and Tourism Commission. Its also a holiday when a lot of people travel.

Rodriguez says they expect a 50% increase in the number of visitors compared to an average weekend.

Thats an additional 63,000 tourists to Baja, according to Rodriguez.

On average, every visitor spends anywhere from $150 to $200 during their visit, he said. We are concerned people might stay away due to the ongoing gasoline shortage in the city, but we dont see that will have a big impact since most visitors who drive fuel up north of the border.

Rodriguez remains optimistic the number of visitors in the Tijuana region will increase beyond this weekend.

During the first quarter of the year, Rodriguez and other officials noticed a substantial drop in tourism as people stayed away because of inclement weather.

Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the U.S.-Mexico border

As for the demographics of the visitors, Rodriguez says theyve noticed that over the last 20 years or so, tourists who do visit Baja are mostly of Mexican descent.

Eighty five percent are now Hispanic, Rodriguez said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
British banking giant Barclays is shutting down its call center operations in Over-The-Rhine by September, according to a disclosure to Cincinnati and Ohio officials.

A total of 252 workers will lose their jobs, starting July 20 and ending within a two-week period of Sept. 13, the bank said in a letter to Mayor Aftab Pureval and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. The letter was part of the bank's WARN notice required by the U.S. Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act of 1988.

A 2021 file photo of Barclays Bank Delaware.

The financial institution said the affected workers were not unionized and won't be offered positions elsewhere in the company. The company did not provide a reason for the call center's closure.

Barclays did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Barclays will close OTR call center, laying off 252 workers
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. A meeting of the Supervisory Board of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), held by the board's chairman Mikayil Jabbarov, hosted an exchange of opinions on the company's participation in foreign investment projects, Trend reports via SOCAR.

The board approved the company's adjusted budget for 2024.

Additionally, the meeting presented the companys operating results for 2023, and approved its audited financial report for last year.

To note, SOCAR produces oil and natural gas from onshore and offshore fields in the Azerbaijani segment of the Caspian Sea.

It operates the country's only oil refinery, one gas processing plant and runs several oil and gas export pipelines throughout the country. It owns fuel filling station networks under the SOCAR brand in Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Georgia, Ukraine, Romania, Switzerland, and Austria.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
In our Reality Check stories, Herald-Leader journalists dig deeper into questions over facts, consequences and accountability. Read more. Story idea? hlcityregion@herald-leader.com.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken says its reasonable to believe that Israeli security forces breached international law in executing a ruthless seven-month campaign against Hamas in Gaza that has killed thousands of civilians.

But Lexington Republican Rep. Andy Barr says the Biden administration shouldnt say so.

We need to come to their defense and not accuse them of violating international law, Barr told Blinken during a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing Wednesday.

Its a demonstration of how fervently committed Barr is to the Israeli cause in the wake of the Oct. 7 attacks, even as a younger generation clamorously aligns with the Palestinians.

Theres nothing surprising about this. For most members of Congress, unconditional support for Israel is the smart political choice, even if doing so undermines U.S. interests, said Stephen Walt, a Harvard University professor of international affairs and author of the book The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Policy.

Treating Israel like a normal country will just get them in hot water at home and encourage AIPAC and groups in the Israel lobby to back opposition candidates, Walt continued. So Israel is free to do whatever it wants.

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The American Israel Public Affairs Committee contributed $19,100 to Barr during the 2022 campaign cycle, according to Open Secrets.

A State Department report released earlier this month found certain instances where Israel used U.S. weapons to act outside of international humanitarian law, citing the high civilian casualty count in Gaza.

Barr believes Blinkens words may have contributed to the International Criminal Courts decision to prosecute Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a decision that Republicans have roundly panned as outrageous and President Joe Biden himself has rejected. The ICC is also seeking to prosecute leaders of Hamas.

Theres no equivalence between Israel and Hamas, the president has declared. Contrary to allegations against Israel made by the International Court whats happening is not genocide.

Blinken explained to Barr that the ICC should not have attempted to submit warrants for Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant because the U.S. and Israel are both investigating the abuse of American weaponry.

Yet Barr ostensibly does not believe the U.S. should even accuse Israel of any violations as it prosecutes its war against Hamas. When he pressed Blinken to disavow that assessment, the secretary stood his ground.

And he defended the Biden administration decision to pause a shipment of high-grade munitions to Israel due to worry about civilian casualties in Rafah, the southernmost strip in Gaza.

Weve seen and weve had concerns about the way these large yield munitions have been used in dense environments, Blinken told Barr.

But Barr charged that its domestic politics thats pressuring the Biden administration to pull back, as scores of young people stage protests and encampments on college campuses against the U.S.-backed military campaign.

Whether Israel is actually in violation of international law is contested among experts.

As Blinken should know, a particular attacks legality is not dependent on the number of casualties actually inflicted, let alone on a terrorist groups fictitious figures, said retired Lt. Col. Geoffrey Corn, a distinguished fellow at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America.

But the chief prosecutor of the ICC, Karim Khan, has centered his warrant around Israels intentional use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare.

The crime is not limited solely to the deprivation of food, but includes other objects indispensable for the survival of civilians such as water, fuel and medicine, reads the ICC report.
In the Washoe County elections office, everyone is new to the job.

Cari-Ann Burgess  the top elections official in the county  is the third registrar of voters there in just four years. Shes been leading the office for less than six months. Her deputy, Andrew McDonald, has been on the job for a few weeks. Media production specialist George Guthrie started less than nine months ago. Even Noah Autrey, the office assistant, started full-time less than a year ago.

With 100% staff turnover since the last presidential election, Washoe County is emblematic of a nationwide trend. States are gearing up for the 2024 election while grappling with an election worker exodus driven by the complexity of the job, as well as threats and harassment, experts say. Election worker turnover has been ticking up steadily over the past two decades, but the pace has increased in recent cycles. Since 2020, at least 36% of local election officials have left the job, according to researchers from the Bipartisan Policy Center and the University of California, Los Angeles.

We know that an unsafe work environment is a big consideration for election officials when they leave their roles, said Rachel Orey, a senior associate director of the Bipartisan Policy Centers elections project. Threats and harassment are one of the many factors that lead to turnover.

Burgess has quit before too. She worked on elections in her home state of Minnesota in 2020, until the stress became too overwhelming.

On a grocery store run with her children, a constituent started screaming at her, prompting Burgess to abandon her cart and leave the store.

My daughters were visibly shaken when that happened, Burgess recalled. I was shaking because I was so upset that somebody would have the audacity to do that to me in a grocery store in front of my children.

Burgess soon traded irate voters for sunsets in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, where she took a job managing a friends beachfront ice cream shop.

It was just the mental break that I needed, Burgess said.

She handpicked which ice cream flavors to order, managed a gaggle of teenage staff and walked along the pier, spotting dolphins and leatherback sea turtles.

I never expected to go back to elections. Never, she said.

But the career shift didnt take.

I love this country. I love elections. Its who I am, Burgess said, tearing up. I had to come back.

She had been working in elections in Nevada for about nine months when she was chosen to lead election administration in the states second-largest county. Her appointment to interim registrar generated an icy response.

Cari-Ann Burgess, the Washoe County registrar of voters, speaks with reporters and concerned citizens in Reno on January 23, 2024. - Jason Bean/Reno Gazette Journal/USA Today Network

Constituents filed up to the microphone at the county commissioners meeting in mid-January. Then they let it rip  questioning Burgess resume, suggesting she got the job because she has friends in high places and denouncing her hiring as shady, shady, shady.

It was a wave of familiar faces, perhaps none more familiar than real estate investor and cryptocurrency entrepreneur Robert Beadles.

Now you have this Cari-Ann, she may be the nicest gal in the world, but shes certainly not qualified to be our registrar of voters, Beadles told the commissioners.

Beadles  who backs former President Donald Trump and describes himself as a constitutionalist  has devoted significant time and money spreading the kind of election skepticism that ballooned nationwide after Trumps baseless claims of fraud in 2020.

Nevadas critical battleground

Washoe County  home to Reno, The Biggest Little City in the World  is the critical battleground county within the battleground state. In presidential elections, whoever wins the county tends to win the state. The county has broken for Democrats in the past four presidential races, sometimes narrowly.

As the number of registered voters in the county has grown, and voters have gained easier access to the ballot box, running elections there has also become more complicated. In 2021, the state permanently expanded mail-in voting, requiring clerks to send every active registered voter a ballot before the primary and general elections.

An audit of the 2022 midterm elections in Washoe highlighted the pitfalls when an expanded election workload and a new workforce collide. The audit determined that the office was understaffed and inexperienced, leading to poor communication with constituents and expensive errors, although none that affected the election results, including for Senate, House and governor.

The audit noted that the collective inexperience and lack of institutional knowledge led to ballot errors that required a costly ballot reprint.

Since the audit, the registrars office staffed up, bringing on Burgess and others, and workers have gone through additional training. The office added additional cameras and a floor-to-ceiling glass observation booth for election observers  steps to improve transparency and to protect employees.

After the stress she experienced in 2020  waking up in the middle of the night, losing patches of hair  Burgess is on a personal mission to protect her staff from the same kind of burnout. Shes urging them to get enough sleep, use their vacation days and take advantage of mental health resources in the run-up to November.

Im like, you guys, this is a piece cake right now, Burgess said. Its gonna get worse.

The audit also noted that a skeptical portion of the public is demanding more information so they can understand election administration.

Burgess speaks with election workers at the Washoe County registrar of voters office on February 6, 2024. - Trevor Hughes/USA Today Network

Burgess said she has an open-door policy if members of the community want her to walk them through the process. Her team also rearranged the ballot counting area so election observers can see more of the machinery directly rather than on the livestream from video cameras.

Im trying to do everything possible to make sure that anybody who observes can see every part of our election process, Burgess said. Nothing nefarious is going on here.

New law to protect election workers

The clean sweep of the election office staff and other changes have done little to sway the countys chief election skeptic.

Theyre literally just counting everything behind closed doors and come out and tell you who wins. How do you trust that? Beadles told CNN in an interview.

Asked about the observation areas available to election observers, Beadles dismissed it as smoke and mirrors.

Robert Beadles helps moderate a debate at the Atlantis Casino in Reno on April 11, 2024. - Jason Bean/Reno Gazette-Journal/USA Today Network

Beadles campaigned for the removal of the two previous registrars, one of whom specifically cited threats and harassment as a reason for leaving. Beadles took aim at another prior registrar, accusing her of treason and telling commissioners, Either fire her or lock her up.

Last year, Nevadas Democratic-controlled Legislature passed a law  signed by Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo  making it a felony to harass or intimidate election workers with the goal of interfering in their work or retaliating against them, punishable by up to four years in prison.

Beadles  who says he has never harassed an election official  has been battling against the law ever since, calling it election suppression.

When you read it, youll see that if you just simply asked an election worker why they did what they did, if that just slows them down from their job, that could get you four years in jail, you know that? Beadles said. If you simply said, Well, why did you sort that ballot? Or why didnt you check that signature? They can give you four years in jail for that.

Thats not how Burgess sees it. The new election law, she said, is another tool to keep her staff safe from threatening behavior, not criticism  and, she hopes, to help her retain staff beyond this election season.

I have told them, and Im going to continue to tell them, that if somebodys yelling at you just walk away, just be nice, Burgess said. But if staffers are being threatened with physical harm, you go ahead and you report that, she said.

Reports nationwide, as well as locally, have documented escalating threats against election workers. But Beadles doesnt buy it, arguing Nevadas new law is unnecessary.

Nobodys harassed or intimidated or assaulted any of these people, he said.

Asked about Beadles refusal to believe that harassment even takes place, Burgess appeared unsurprised.

Im so sorry you feel like that, that you believe that, she said. I was one who lived it.

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BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG)  A Baldwin County airport is one of two municipal airports in the state that can start making improvements with funding from the Alabama Department of Transportation.

Brittany Robinsons dad in Mobile Metro Jail after Oklahoma City arrest

According to a press release, ALDOT awarded over $200,000 to the Bay Minette Municipal Airport in Baldwin County and the Isbell Field Airport in Fort Payne (DeKalb County) through the Alabama Airport Funding Program.

The funding was divided as follows:

Bay Minette Municipal Airport: $226,127 for pavement maintenance to the northwest apron of the airport.

The City of Fort Payne in DeKalb County: $106,709 for concrete pavement improvements for taxiways at Isbell Field.

UPDATE: Mobile County deputy drove into area as Quamar Parker, friends jumped into creek

Further, the release said, Bay Minette Municipal Airport Authority will provide $75,376.00 in matching local funds for a total value project of $301,503.00.

The City of Fort Payne will provide $35,570.00 in matching local funds for a total value project of $142,279.00.

For more information about the Alabama Airport Improvement Funding Program, visit the programs website.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
We have been begging them to work with us: Montgomery County educators outraged over potential layoffs

ROCKVILLE, Md. (DC News Now)  Educators in Montgomery County are outraged after finding out the school board is preparing to slash roughly 300 positions due to budget cuts.

Those 300 positions end up having ripple effects throughout the system, said Jennifer Martin, president of the Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA). The fewer adults there are in the building, the more there are safety concerns, the less individual attention kids get, the greater the workload for already overburdened teachers.

New field for Parkdale High School could become reality after finding its way onto Prince Georges County budget

On Thursday, members of MCEA protested outside the school board meeting and eventually made their way inside to give a letter to the school board. The letter demanded that the district make cuts elsewhere in its budget, like to outside contracts.

The meeting went into recess briefly as the group disrupted it.

We have been begging them to work with us, said Martin.

According to the MCEA, the union was notified Tuesday night that the district is preparing to eliminate more than 300 educators jobs. It comes as the Montgomery County Council voted on its fiscal year budget, which cut $33 million in school funding, according to the MCEA.

Montgomery College students, nonprofit create community food forest to fight food insecurity

Council approved the budget Thursday, despite concern from some members.

I have grown more concerned over the last week about the funding level and the impending impact on MCPS students, teachers and staff, said councilmember Will Jawando. Our teachers need more not less. The impacts of these cuts will be felt in every school.

Still, other county leaders blame the school district for not speaking up sooner.

The school board is meeting now in emergency session to talk about a budget that they saw, participated in and knew what was happening, said council member Evan Glass. Theyre giving us information now about our decision? Shame on them. Blindsiding us, blindsiding our educators.

Missing any construction tools? Howard County police recover 15,000 stolen tools

The school board did not speak about the budget during its public meeting Thursday night.

In an email to DC News Now, Christie Scott, a spokesperson for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and the Board of Education, said the board appreciates all of MCPS staff members and their unwavering commitment to the school systems success with students.

We do not make these decisions easily and they are not our first choice. A decision to reduce staff has no reflection on the performance or dedication of MCPS educators, Scott stated.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
The regime of dictator Alexander Lukashenko cracks down on the 257 candidates registered to join the exiled opposition council.

Over a hundred Belarusians living abroad accused of forming an extremist group and discrediting Belarus by celebrating Freedom Day in their countries of refuge.

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UK intensifies sanctions against Belarus with an import ban on aluminum. Still, Minsk remains Moscows key loophole for sanction circumvention.

Sweden pledges $467,000 to the newly established International Humanitarian Fund for Victims of Repression in Belarus, initiated by opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

Russia expands its wanted list to include 400 more Belarusians who oppose the Lukashenko regime.

Russia puts 400 more Belarusians on its wanted list

Over 400 Belarusians have been added to the criminal investigation database of the Russian Interior Ministry over the past three months, independent Russian media outlet Mediazona reported on May 15.

The Russian Interior Ministry wanted list was first found to include over 3,100 Belarusian citizens in February 2024.

The list includes independent journalists and human rights advocates, former political prisoners, and prominent opposition figures, such as members of the Belarusian United Transitional Cabinet Valery Sakhashchyk and Volha Harbunova, former Belarusian ambassador to Argentina Uladzimir Astapenka, and two advisers of exiled opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya  Aliaksandr Dabravolski and Franak Viachorka.

Within the three-month period, about 30 Belarusians associated with volunteer units in Ukraine and 30 former political prisoners were also added to the wanted list.

Other new entries include Vadzim Prakopiev, a politician and blogger sentenced to 25 years in absentia, Pavel Mitskevich, the founder of the Okno na Wschod (Window to the East) aid fund, and activists Ihar Sluchak and Alina Nahornaya, who advocate for the use of the Belarusian language in the public sectors.

Read also: Opinion: Why is Ukraine rejecting the Belarusian opposition?

Uladzimir Martau, an intensive care physician who exposed the regime Alexander Lukashenkos lies about the COVID-19 death toll, was arrested on May 14 near Saint Petersburg in Russia.

Martau has been charged with organizing an extremist formation for creating a podcast series with the Belarusian branch of U.S. state-funded news service RFE/RL, and faces up to seven years of imprisonment.

The Belarusian doctor is currently in detention ahead of his expected extradition to Belarus.

Mediazona also reported that 200 names had been taken off the wanted list. Russian law enforcers earlier removed Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskayas name from the list, allegedly after establishing that she resided in the European Union.

Currently, the Russian Interior Ministrys list includes 3,400 Belarusians. In 2022 alone, Russia extradited 16 Belarusians accused of extremism  a charge widely used against political opponents of the Lukashenko regime.

Belarus and Russia are part of the Interstate Wanted Persons Treaty of the Commonwealth of Independent States or CIS, the Russian-led political alliance of former post-Soviet countries.

The international police organization Interpol has stopped executing Belarusian politically motivated search warrants. However, Belarusians are subject to extradition in Russia and most CIS countries.

Minsk opens probe against candidates to opposition body representing exiled Belarusians

Belarusian investigative authorities have opened criminal cases against all 257 candidates in the elections to the Coordination Council, the representative body of the countrys opposition in exile, Belarusian Investigative Committee press office reported on May 21.

In addition to conspiracy to seize power, the opposition activists are charged with calling for actions against national security, the creation of an extremist formation, and assisting extremist activities.

The security agency claimed that measures, including searches and seizures of property, had already been taken against the defendants in the case.

The creation of the Coordination Council was announced on Aug. 14, 2020, at the height of anti-Lukashenko protests in Belarus after contested presidential elections. The body, which is nominally headed by opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, was established to engage in talks between the protesters and the incumbent authorities and, eventually, to negotiate a transition of power.

People attend a demonstration in support of Belarusian prisoners of conscience in Warsaw, Poland, on 18 May, 2024. (Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

However, Lukashenko, who insisted he had won the elections by a landslide, claimed the creation of the council was an attempt to seize power.

Most Western countries did not recognize the legitimacy of the 2020 Belarusian presidential election. Lukashenkos claim to have been elected president was recognized mainly by authoritarian countries and dictatorships, including Russia, China and North Korea.

The Coordination Council is set to hold its first direct elections on May 25-27, rebranding itself as a proto-parliament, and an alternative to the Belarusian Parliament, re-elected in sham voting in February 2024.

The 257 candidates for the council will run for 112 seats in 12 election lists. Each list of candidates was separately ruled to be an extremist formation by Belaruss notorious KGB security agency on May 16.

While many analysts doubt the councils ability to impact the political crisis in Belarus significantly, it is referred to as a training ground in democracy for Belarusians after 30 years of being ruled by Lukashenko without free and fair elections.

UK sanctions Belarus aluminum, electronics

The United Kingdom has imposed import restrictions on Belarusian aluminum and the support services accompanying its supply, U.K. resource Global Sanctions reported on May 21.

New bans, effective as of May 16, were also introduced in trade with Belarus in goods and technologies related to electronics, navigation and avionics, aerospace equipment, and propulsion systems, Global Sanctions said.

The new provisions add to the U.K.s sanction package against Belarus, which has been amended over the past four years to reflect Belaruss complicity in Russias war against Ukraine and political repression of Belarusian civil society in the aftermath of the 2020 post-presidential elections protests.

The UK recently placed restrictions on missile producer Precision Electromechanics Plant and microelectronics manufacturer Planar, and sanctioned 17 Belarusian judges, prosecutors, and investigators who took part in politically motivated prosecutions in Belarus.

A staunch Kremlin ally, Belarus serves as a gateway for sanctioned goods on their way to Russia. Norwegian risk consultancy Corisk estimates that 10 billion euros ($10.8 billion) worth of goods reached Russia via Belarus in 2022-2023.

Read also: Belarusian opposition working to create alternative passport, safeguard exiles from Lukashenko regime

Sweden to contribute $467,000 to Belarus Political Prisoners Fund

Sweden intends to contribute 5 million krona (roughly $467,000) to the International Humanitarian Fund for Victims of Repression in Belarus, Swedens Minister for International Cooperation and Trade Johan Forssell has announced.

The announcement of the planned contribution was made on May 21  the day of Solidarity with Belarusian political prisoners  when opposition Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya visited Stockholm.

Tsikhanouskayas visit was organized by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Stockholm Center for Eastern European Studies.

Tsikhanouskaya founded the International Humanitarian Fund for Victims of Repression in Belarus in April 2024 in Norway, with the Norwegian government pledging to contribute 10 million krone ($900,000). The funds will be used to provide medical and psychological help to political prisoners and help them rehabilitate following their political persecution.

Human rights groups currently recognize over 1,300 Belarusians as political prisoners, but the real number is likely as high as 5,000, according to former political prisoner Volha Harbunova, now Tsikhanouskayas advisor.

In detention, the health of political prisoners often drastically deteriorates. The humanitarian list of those in dire need of medical help that cannot be provided in detention includes 250 individuals.

At least five prisoners who were subjected to politically motivated prosecution have died in detention. Following their release, former political prisoners struggle to find a job in Belarus, and face repeated persecution by the regime.

New round of raids in Belarus targets over 100 exiled activists

The Investigative Committee of Belarus carried out raids and initiated property seizures against 104 exiled Belarusian activists in response to their celebration of a historic holiday, Freedom Day, the services press office reported on May 16.

The exiled activists are accused of forming an extremist group and discrediting Belarus over their alleged participation in the celebration of Dzien Voli (Freedom Day), which marks the day in 1918 when Belarus declared its independence.

Celebrating this historic Independence Day on March 25 is prohibited in Belarus itself, but it is widely observed among Belarusian diasporas.

According to the investigators, by supporting Tsikhanouskayas call to mark Freedom Day, Belarusian diaspora activists harmed the strategic national interests of the Republic of Belarus in ensuring the independence, territorial integrity, sovereignty, and inviolability of the constitutional order.

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A representative of the Belarusian Investigative Committee, Siarhei Kabakovich, claimed to have tracked down participants of Freedom Day rallies in Poland, Lithuania, Belgium, Georgia, the Czech Republic, the United States and other countries, identified their property, and initiated arrests and seizures of the said property.

The press office reported that in absentia proceedings and a trial against 104 activists are to follow. If found guilty, defendants face up to seven years of imprisonment, fines of up to $620,000, and the seizure of their property.

The new charges are related to the so-called Peoples Embassies case  an investigation launched on March 20 against over 100 diaspora activists who advocated for exiled Belarusians in their countries of refuge.

Property seizures are the latest addition to the regime of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenkos toolkit of repression for targeting activists in exile. Following an in absentia investigation and trial, to which the defendants have virtually no access, they are found guilty and subjected to hefty fines to compensate for alleged damages.

To pay the fines, the convicted persons property in Belarus is arrested and then sold by a government-run firm that expanded its offline operations in 2023.

Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners of Belarus

Three years ago, the Viasna Human Rights Center designated May 21 as the Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners of Belarus. Belarusian activist Vitold Ashurak died in a Belarusian prison on the same day in 2021. Since then, five more political prisoners have died in captivity: Mikalai Klimovich, Ales Pushkin, Vadim Hrasko, Ihar Lednik, and Alexander Kulinich.

Besides being unlawfully prosecuted, Belarusian political prisoners all have almost no access to medical care in prison, potentially putting their lives in danger. At least 254 political prisoners face the risk of dying behind bars today, Viasna activists say.

Since 2020, politically motivated sentences have been handed down to more than 5,000 people, and at least 3,200 of them faced imprisonment in inhumane conditions. These conservative numbers continue to grow, as the Lukashenko regime opens new criminal investigations and arbitrarily detains hundreds of Belarusians every month.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The Habitat for Humanity Benton Countys ReStore will be hosting a parking lot sale on June 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to raise funds for its next project.

The ReStore offers affordable home essentials while keeping usable items out of landfills. Each purchase helps fund the construction of affordable housing in Arkansas. The store, located at 1212 North Walton Blvd., will offer a 25% discount on all merchandise for the duration of the event.

Habitat for Humanity Benton County accepts both online monetary donations and physical items, which can be dropped off at their main location. Residents of Benton County may also schedule appointments for item pickups from their homes.

All proceeds will go towards Habitat for Humanitys next Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) house.

For more information about the non-profit, please visit Habitat for Humanity Benton Countys website, their Facebook page and their Instagram page.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute of Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Christophe Gateau/dpa

Police in Berlin have launched criminal investigations into 25 people after forcibly clearing pro-Palestinian anti-war demonstrators from buildings at Humboldt University.

Officers briefly detained 169 people on Thursday night and took down their identities, a police spokeswoman said on Friday.

Police also took six further "measures restricting freedom" at a subsequent protest rally, and issued criminal summons to six additional people.

Pro-Palestinian activists had occupied rooms at the university on Wednesday in protest against Israel's ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, Germany's supply of weapons to Israel and in support of Palestinians.

Humboldt University management initially tolerated the protest and opted for a dialogue with the occupiers and academics.

But on Thursday evening, police cleared the occupied building.

Humboldt University President Julia von Blumenthal said the police operation was carried out under orders from Berlin's minister for research, Ina Czyborra, in agreement with Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner.

Student organizers denounced the police actions and accused officers of using unnecessary violence against students.

"The violent eviction" of the student protesters "marked by police brutality" as well as "the failure of the university authorities to protect their students" is a "grave injustice," the group Student Coalition Berlin wrote in a post to Instagram.

The group called for continued protests in solidarity with Palestinians.

Berlin police said they would provide additional information about the operation to remove the protesters later on Friday.

One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute of Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Christophe Gateau/dpa

One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute of Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Christophe Gateau/dpa
Christiane Hoffmann, deputy government spokeswoman, arrives for the weekly meeting of the federal cabinet at the Chancellor's Office. Michael Kappeler/dpa

Germany on Friday gave a cautious reaction to a Polish-Greek proposal for a new European air defence shield.

The initiative had been noted, said government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann, while referring to an existing German project to strengthen Europe's defence from aerial attack.

Twenty-one countries are involved in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) devised after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and intended to close gaps in NATO's defence shield for Europe.

For example, there are plans to jointly place orders for air-defence technology with the defence industry.

However, Poland and Greece on Thursday submitted an alternative concept for a broad defence shield to the EU leadership.

In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece wrote that a programme is needed to strengthen the EU's overall defence capabilities.

It should also encourage European defence companies to develop cutting-edge technologies and become world leaders in their fields.

Developing and funding a comprehensive system to protect EU airspace could send a clear signal that Europe is united and determined to protect itself, the two leaders said.

They also described the EU's current air-defence capabilities as a "major weakness" in the bloc's security.

The new air-defence system could serve as a shield for citizens and armed forces if deterrence fails, they wrote in the letter, which was made available to dpa.

It made no mention of the NATO and the German initiative. The two heads of government now want their initiative to be discussed at the next regular EU summit in June.
Christiane Hoffmann, deputy government spokeswoman, arrives for the weekly meeting of the federal cabinet at the Chancellor's Office. Michael Kappeler/dpa

Germany on Friday gave a cautious reaction to a Polish-Greek proposal for a new European air defence shield.

The initiative had been noted, said government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann, while referring to an existing German project to strengthen Europe's defence from aerial attack.

Twenty-one countries are involved in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) devised after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and intended to close gaps in NATO's defence shield for Europe.

For example, there are plans to jointly place orders for air-defence technology with the defence industry.

However, Poland and Greece on Thursday submitted an alternative concept for a broad defence shield to the EU leadership.

In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece wrote that a programme is needed to strengthen the EU's overall defence capabilities.

It should also encourage European defence companies to develop cutting-edge technologies and become world leaders in their fields.

Developing and funding a comprehensive system to protect EU airspace could send a clear signal that Europe is united and determined to protect itself, the two leaders said.

They also described the EU's current air-defence capabilities as a "major weakness" in the bloc's security.

The new air-defence system could serve as a shield for citizens and armed forces if deterrence fails, they wrote in the letter, which was made available to dpa.

It made no mention of the NATO and the German initiative. The two heads of government now want their initiative to be discussed at the next regular EU summit in June.

French President Emmanuel Macron could be a potential key supporter. France has not yet joined the German project because it also favours the acquisition of non-European military technology, for example, US Patriot air-defence missile systems.

A German Defence Ministry spokesman said on Friday that if the EU wanted to contribute to strengthening Europe's air defence, including by through financial support, this would be "more than welcome."
Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin, speaks at a conference of the Christian Democrratic party (CDU). Carsten Koall/dpa

Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner defended government orders to have police forcibly clear pro-Palestinian anti-war protesters from buildings at Humboldt University, despite criticism from some higher education leaders.

Leaders of Humboldt University initially tolerated the protesters, who occupied several rooms in a university building on Wednesday, and opted for a dialogue with student activists and faculty.

But on Thursday evening, police cleared the occupied building.

Humboldt University President Julia von Blumenthal said the police operation was carried out under orders from Berlin's minister for research, Ina Czyborra, in agreement with Wegner.

Wegner on Friday doubled down on that decision, accusing the protesters of anti-Semitism and expressing support for the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is considered a terrorist group by Germany, the US and Israel.

"I will not let this pass, we do not tolerate anti-Semitism, hatred and agitation at our universities," Wegner, a conservative, declared on Friday. "Jewish students must be able to study at universities without fear."

The president of the Technical University of Berlin, Geraldine Rauch, criticized Wegner and Czyborra for ordering police into the Humboldt University buildings instead of consulting with von Blumenthal and other Humboldt leaders, a move Rauch called "extremely disconcerting."

"President von Blumenthal would have evacuated (the buildings) even without instructions from above if the dialogue had finally failed," Rauch said. "Not only does this show a lack of trust in university management, it also undermines university autonomy itself."

Anti-Semitic slogans and graffiti are unacceptable, said Rauch.

"But it is also unacceptable that our mayor lumps all protesters together and declares them to be 'terror sympathizers,'" Rauch added, referring to Wegner's bombastic comments about the protests.

Wegner responded by suggesting he would continue to push a hard line against pro-Palestinian protesters at universities in Berlin in the future.

"If the TU president thinks it's a new style, then she's absolutely right," Wegner said. "I attach great importance to academic freedom and freedom of opinion, but anti-Semitic crimes are not an opinion."

Police in Berlin have repeatedly cracked down on pro-Palestinian demonstrations, sometimes banning demonstrations altogether. Authorities have cited the possibility that protesters might chant anti-Semitic slogans or display banned symbols.

At Humboldt University, pro-Palestinian activists had occupied parts of a building in protest against Israel's ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, Germany's supply of weapons to Israel and in support of Palestinians.

Student organizers denounced the police actions and accused officers of using unnecessary violence against students.

"The violent eviction" of the student protesters "marked by police brutality" as well as "the failure of the university authorities to protect their students" is a "grave injustice," the group Student Coalition Berlin wrote in a post to Instagram.

The group called for continued protests in solidarity with Palestinians.

Police in Berlin said they briefly detained 169 people on Thursday evening as part of the operation to clear the protesters and recorded their identities, a police spokeswoman said earlier on Friday. Criminal investigations have been launched into 25 people.

One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute of Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Christophe Gateau/dpa

One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute of Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Christophe Gateau/dpa

One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute of Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Christophe Gateau/dpa
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, May 24. Russian Gazprom PJSC and Kazakhstan discussed the development of cooperation in the gas industry, Trend reports.

According to the company, these issues were discussed during a working meeting in St. Petersburg, Russia, between Alexei Miller, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gazprom PJSC, and Roman Sklyar, First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan.

During the meeting, the parties discussed issues of developing cooperation in the gas industry within the framework of the Strategic Cooperation Agreement.

Meanwhile, in June 2023, Gazprom and Kazakhstan's QazaqGaz national company signed an agreement for the provision of services for the transportation of Russian natural gas through Kazakhstan for consumers in Uzbekistan.

Gazprom and the Government of Kazakhstan signed a strategic cooperation agreement in November 2023, which is aimed at developing cooperation in the fields of supply, transportation, and processing of natural gas, as well as its exploration and production.

Earlier, Miller said that in the summer of 2024, it is planned to sign medium-term, fifteen-year gas supply contracts with Kazakhstan, as well as Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the execution of which should begin in the autumn of 2025.
Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin, speaks at a conference of the Christian Democrratic party (CDU). Carsten Koall/dpa

Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner defended government orders to have police forcibly clear pro-Palestinian anti-war protesters from buildings at the city's Humboldt University, despite criticism from some higher education leaders.

Leaders of Humboldt University initially tolerated the protesters, who occupied several rooms in a university building on Wednesday, and opted for a dialogue with student activists and faculty.

But on Thursday evening, police cleared the occupied building.

Humboldt University President Julia von Blumenthal said the police operation was carried out under orders from Berlin's minister for research, Ina Czyborra, in agreement with Wegner.

Wegner on Friday doubled down on that decision, accusing the protesters of anti-Semitism and expressing support for the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is considered a terrorist group by Germany, the United States and Israel.

"I will not let this pass, we do not tolerate anti-Semitism, hatred and agitation at our universities," Wegner, a conservative, declared on Friday. "Jewish students must be able to study at universities without fear."

The president of the Technical University (TU) of Berlin, Geraldine Rauch, criticized Wegner and Czyborra for ordering police into the Humboldt University buildings instead of consulting with von Blumenthal and other Humboldt leaders, a move Rauch called "extremely disconcerting."

"President von Blumenthal would have evacuated [the buildings] even without instructions from above if the dialogue had finally failed," Rauch said. "Not only does this show a lack of trust in university management, it also undermines university autonomy itself."

Anti-Semitic slogans and graffiti are unacceptable, said Rauch.

"But it is also unacceptable that our mayor lumps all protesters together and declares them to be 'terror sympathizers,'" Rauch added, referring to Wegner's comments about the protests.

Wegner responded by suggesting he would continue to push a hard line against pro-Palestinian protesters at universities in Berlin in the future.

"If the TU president thinks it's a new style, then she's absolutely right," Wegner said. "I attach great importance to academic freedom and freedom of opinion, but anti-Semitic crimes are not an opinion."

Police in Berlin have repeatedly cracked down on pro-Palestinian demonstrations, sometimes banning demonstrations altogether. Authorities have cited the possibility that protesters might chant anti-Semitic slogans or display banned symbols.

At Humboldt University, pro-Palestinian activists had occupied parts of a building in protest against Israel's ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, Germany's supply of weapons to Israel and in support of Palestinians.

Student organizers denounced the police actions and accused officers of using unnecessary violence against students.

"The violent eviction" of the student protesters "marked by police brutality" as well as "the failure of the university authorities to protect their students" is a "grave injustice," the group Student Coalition Berlin wrote in a post to Instagram.

The group called for continued protests in solidarity with Palestinians.

Police in Berlin said they briefly detained 169 people on Thursday evening as part of the operation to clear the protesters and recorded their identities, a police spokeswoman said earlier on Friday. Criminal investigations have been launched into 25 people.

The clearing out of protesters late Thursday triggered a large-scale police operation.

Around 530 police officers were deployed, the authorities said on Friday.

On Thursday evening, the officers led around 170 pro-Palestinian activists out of the Institute of Social Sciences building. Of these, 50 squatters were in the courtyard and a further 120 in the building.

Twenty of them had barricaded themselves in the upper floor of the four-storey building. "A battering-ram had to be used to open the barricaded door," police said in a statement issued Friday.

Von Blumenthal told broadcaster RBB-Inforadio on Friday that clearing occupied spaces had always been an option - even if, in her view, it had ultimately started too early.

"We were ... in a dialogue in the situation there, and from our point of view we would have needed some more time to see whether we could lead this dialogue to a result ourselves or not," said von Blumenthal." However, the university would not have tolerated the occupation for longer than the evening.

The university had set a deadline for protesters to leave by 6 pm on Thursday (1600 GMT) and said authorities would remove the demonstrators occupying the premises after that.
He is our best bet: Why Idaho Democrats back Biden in likely race against Trump

Dozens of voters gathered outside Timberline High School in Southeast Boise on Thursday, ready to check in and make known their pick for president before the November election.

Voters checked in with volunteers before heading into the schools library, where they filled out a ballot  six choices for president, including President Joe Biden  and a slate of delegates to be sent to the states Democratic Party State Convention in June. They then dropped their ballots into a cardboard box, their votes cast in the partys first caucus since 2016.

Biden, an 81 year-old former U.S. senator from Delaware, seeks a second term in office. During his campaign hes faced criticism over his handling of Israels war in Gaza and his advanced age as the oldest American president in history. Biden has generally trailed former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee facing criminal charges for his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, in national polls.

But attendees at one of three caucus locations in Ada County, Timberline High School on Boise Avenue, remained undeterred. The president received 95% of of the 2,412 votes cast Thursday, according to the Idaho Democratic Party, meaning the five other candidates earned a combined total of less than 150 votes. Democrats and unaffiliated voters who voted to select the state party nominee for president told the Idaho Statesman they were largely pleased to support Biden for a second term.

House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, told the Statesman after she voted that she felt Biden has strong support from his partys base.

He supports womens freedom; thats where Im at, Kim Leeds, a Democrat, told the Statesman, noting that abortion rights are her main concern. I just think its great that someone that age has that much energy and passion.

Several hundred Democratic volunteers helped hold the partys caucus, which had more than 50 locations around the state and will also designate Idahos Democratic delegates. Polls closed at 8 p.m. local time Thursday evening.

Volunteer Chrystal Allen, left, collects ballots from people voting in the Idaho Democratic presidential caucus at Timberline High School in Boise, Thursday.

Those votes in the caucus will proportionally determine how Idahos 23 delegates will vote in the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August. Though six presidential candidates qualified for Idahos ballot, Biden already clinched enough votes in state primary elections in March to win the Democratic nomination.

Trump presidency is frankly terrifying

Jennifer Beazer, another Democratic voter, told the Statesman that she appreciates his efforts to relieve student loan debt for Americans.

Beazer, who works in the nonprofit sector, said she had qualified for a federal program that forgives student loan debt for public sector workers who have made on-time payments for a decade. But after 13 years, she said she had not received the debt relief because of bureaucratic reasons.

When Biden entered office in 2021, Beazer said his efforts to reform the program allowed her to receive the loan forgiveness she had previously qualified her, and the savings allowed her to pursue a masters degree in public health.

Biden separately tried to cancel more than $400 billion in student debt  a move the conservative U.S. Supreme Court overruled last year. He canceled another $7.7 billion Wednesday.

But Beazer said she has been disappointed in Bidens handling of the Gaza war, and that she wants to see a ceasefire. After Hamas militants killed more than 1,100 people in Israel in October, Israel launched a war against the occupied territory and has received billions in U.S. military aid. Israeli attacks in Gaza have since killed more than 35,000 people, according to figures from local officials.

One of the presidential candidates other than Biden  David Olscamp  is running on a platform calling for an immediate ceasefire in the war. Another, Armando Perez-Serrato, on his website has accused Biden of abetting genocide.

But Beazer said she feels there are high stakes in this election against Trump, who she said has nothing to lose.

To me, the option of having another Trump presidency is frankly terrifying, she said. Two other Democratic voters told the Statesman they felt Biden has been an effective president in the face of Republican opposition in Congress.

Idaho Democratic Party Chair Lauren Necochea told the Statesman the contrast between Biden and Trump couldnt be more stark.

I think Democrats are going to come together around the Biden administration and its track record of bringing our economy back from the brink, getting people back to work, a record breaking stock exchange and investments in our infrastructure and manufacturing capacity that are going to transform job opportunities for a generation, she said.

President Biden is the only person who has beaten President Trump in a presidential election, she added. He is our best bet.

Why Democrats held presidential caucus

The presidential caucus was separate from this months primary elections after Republicans in the Idaho Legislature mistakenly deleted the presidential primary last year and then did not reinstate it.

Idaho last had a presidential caucus in 2016, when Bernie Sanders defeated Hilary Clinton. Clinton went on to win the national nomination.

Democratic officials Thursday said they were frustrated to be running a caucus instead of a primary, which they felt would likely depress turnout.

Its a poor way to run elections, said Jared DeLoof, the partys executive director. He said the party gave voters the option of voting absentee  something he pointed out the state GOP did not offer at its caucus in March.

We need to fix this, Necochea said. Everyone wants a primary.
A king salmon. (Photo by Ryan Hagerty/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

The Biden administration says that listing numerous Alaska king salmon populations under the Endangered Species Act could be warranted, and it now plans to launch a broader scientific study to follow its preliminary review.

Citing the species diminished size at adulthood and spawning numbers below sustainable targets set by state managers, the National Marine Fisheries Service announced its initial conclusion early Thursday in a 14-page federal notice.

It said a January 2024 listing request from a Washington state-based conservation group had met the legal criteria to advance the agencys examination of Gulf of Alaska king salmon populations to the next stage, which is a rigorous scientific review expected to take at least nine months.

Endangered Species Act experts said the initial hurdle is typically an easy one for advocacy groups to clear, while the second stage can take much longer  with the courts often brought in to settle disputes over delays and scientific conclusions.

The review really starts in earnest now, said Cooper Freeman, Alaska director for the Center for Biological Diversity, a conservation group that isnt involved in the king salmon proposal but frequently petitions and litigates for protections for other species. The preliminary decision, he added, is part of the process, but the initial finding in no way predetermines an outcome.

The listing petition was submitted by the Wild Fish Conservancy, which has previously filed Endangered Species Act lawsuits to protect other populations of Alaska and Washington salmon and steelhead.

The groups previous efforts threatened to close down a longstanding small-boat king salmon fishery in Southeast Alaska and drew broad condemnation from fishermen, state wildlife managers and even conservation groups.

[Related: A lawsuit targets a Southeast Alaska salmon fishery to save 73 orcas. Critics say the Washington-based plaintiffs should look closer to home.]

The decision announced Thursday is preliminary and comes with no proposed limitations on fishing or other activity.

But experts said that a final decision to list king salmon as endangered or threatened could have broad impacts. Those could include not just restrictions on salmon fishing in Southeast and Southcentral Alaska, but also on activity in those regions that affects river habitat, like road and residential construction.

Other fisheries that accidentally scoop up Gulf of Alaska kings in their nets  a type of unintentional harvest known as bycatch  could also be in the crosshairs.

If the species is listed, anywhere youve got human caused mortality of kings, or impacts on their habitat, will be under a microscope over time, said Eric Fjelstad, an Anchorage-based attorney whos worked on Endangered Species Act cases, typically on behalf of oil and gas and mining companies. This isnt like turning on a light switch. But it will happen over time, as all those management regimes come into place one by one.

A formal proposal by the federal government to list the Gulf of Alaska king salmon would not come until the end of the rigorous scientific review. That process is legally required to be finished within a year of the filing of the listing petition, though it often takes longer.

As an initial step, the fisheries service said in its Thursday notice that its opening a 60-day public comment period and soliciting information about the king salmons status from the public, government agencies, Alaska Native groups, scientists, industry and conservation groups.

The conservancys 67-page petition targets all king salmon populations that enter the marine environment of the Gulf of Alaska. That includes an area stretching more than 1,000 miles, from the Alaska Peninsula to near Ketchikan, including populations that spawn on the Kenai Peninsula and Kodiak Island, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, in the Copper River and across Southeast Alaska, according to the National Marine Fisheries Service.

The petition cites significant declines in productivity and abundance compared to levels two or more decades ago. It blames global warming and competition with hatchery-raised fish in the ocean as the major causes, but it also references growing threats from warming stream temperatures during spawning and incubation.

While Alaska is often perceived as having abundant salmon populations, scientists have been sounding the alarm for decades that Alaskas Chinook are in dire trouble, the conservancy said in a statement emailed to supporters in January, using another term for king salmon. Despite existing management plans and years of efforts by state resource managers, Alaskas own data shows the majority of Chinook populations throughout the state have experienced significant decline, not only in abundance, but also in size, diversity, and spatial structure.

A table from the Wild Fish Conservancys Endangered Species Act listing petition shows how rivers and creeks leading into the Gulf of Alaska have missed king salmon spawning goals in recent years.

The fisheries service said in its notice Thursday that the conservancys petition contains numerous factual errors, omissions, incomplete references, and unsupported assertions  including omission of some recent data that show improved spawning numbers.

The agency said the petition nonetheless had enough information for a reasonable person to conclude that the petitioned action may be warranted.

Alaska fish and wildlife managers have aggressively challenged other proposed Endangered Species Act listings in the state, and they have previously expressed skepticism about the conservancys king salmon petition, calling it a targeted attack on Alaska.

In a prepared statement Thursday, the National Marine Fisheries Services regional administrator for Alaska, Jon Kurland, cited the Department of Fish and Games tremendous experience in salmon biology and management, and said his agency would seek technical assistance from state scientists on king salmon biology, genetics and relevant risk factors.

Kurlands agency is dedicating personnel and resources towards a timely completion, it said, but added that it expects significant challenges given the vast geographical extent of the petitioned area.

In her own prepared statement, Republican U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski criticized the fisheries services decision to advance the Wild Fish Conservancys petition, saying even that initial step by the agency would have a dangerous chilling effect on investment in our fishing industry at a time when they can least afford it.

Alaskas king salmon need help, but an ESA listing based on a flawed petition from a Seattle-based environmental activist group is the wrong way to go, she said. As we fight to save our salmon and salmon fisheries alike, we need to rely on the best available science, instead of half-baked petitions intended to get conservation groups a foot in the door to attack our fisheries and resource development.

Emma Helverson, the Wild Fish Conservancys executive director, described the Endangered Species Act as a tool that really gives power to communities and the public.

There is going to be public input so that people in Alaska, people in these regions, can submit their own data and submit their perspectives, she said. I would encourage all Alaskans to participate in the public review, and to bring those concerns forward.

Fjelstad, the attorney  a self-described rabid recreational king salmon fisherman who sometimes accesses the Kenai River by snowmachine  has personally witnessed the species steep population declines and said he thinks political agitation about it is merited.

But he described the Endangered Species Act listing as a blunt instrument that would ignore economic considerations and fundamentally shift oversight and management of king salmon to the federal government from the state.

The problem, he added, is that the drivers of the species decline appear to be so varied  from fishing pressure to climate change to hatchery competition to bycatch  you cant look at any one of these and say weve got a silver bullet here.

There are, potentially, so many different causes, it makes it super hard to solve, he said.

Nathaniel Herz welcomes tips at natherz@gmail.com or (907) 793-0312. This article was originally published in Northern Journal, a newsletter from Herz. Subscribe at this link.

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The post Biden administration advances bid to list Gulf of Alaska king salmon as endangered or threatened appeared first on Alaska Beacon.
Former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden (Getty Images)

As the candidates for president prepare for next months debate, President Joe Bidens reelection campaign is launching a new ad Friday focused on the aftermath of the 2020 election, and portraying presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump as a candidate driven by a desire to regain power.

First viewed by the Capital-Star ahead of its release, the ad includes a voiceover by actor Robert DeNiro, with images of Trump during his presidency, and following his November loss, up to and including the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

From midnight tweets to drinking bleach to tear-gassing citizens, and staging a photo op. We knew Trump was out of control when he was president, the voiceover says. Then he lost the 2020 election  and snapped.

The new spot is part of the Biden campaigns $14 million ad buy for May, and will go live on general market television in battleground states, and on national cable. The ad will appear on digital platforms across battleground states Friday.

Donald Trump is obsessed with his own revenge and retribution, claiming there will be a bloodbath if he loses and promising to be a dictator on day one if he wins  even calling for the termination of the Constitution, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, Biden-Harris campaign manager said in a statement to the Capital-Star. This ad lays out the clear contrast voters will see a month from now when Trump stands on the debate stage next to Joe Biden: Trump is running to regain power for himself, Joe Biden is running to serve you, the American people.

Biden and Trump are slated to face off in a debate in Atlanta June 27, to be broadcast on CNN with no studio audience in attendance. Biden told the Commission on Presidential Debates he would not agree to the three-debate schedule laid out earlier by the nonpartisan organization, which has been organizing presidential debates since the 1980s. On that schedule, the first debate would not have been held until Sept. 16.

While Trump does not appear to have a significant campaign apparatus established in Pennsylvania yet, the Biden campaign has opened two dozen offices statewide, including in red areas like York and Lancaster. Biden has made seven appearances in Pennsylvania this year, including a weeklong sweep through Scranton, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia the week before the April 23 primary.

Trump has campaigned in Pennsylvania three times so far in 2024, including at a National Rifle Association event in Harrisburg, a surprise appearance at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia, and a rally in the Lehigh Valley. On Thursday, Trump, who is on trial in New York for allegedly covering up hush money payments in 2016, held a rally in the Bronx, traditionally a Democratic stronghold.

The Cook Political Report, a national ratings outlet, ranks Pennsylvania as one of six toss-up states in the presidential race this cycle. Its 19 electoral votes are the most of any other state in that category. A Philadelphia Inquirer/New York Times/Siena College poll released May 13 found Biden trailing Trump in five of six battleground states, including Pennsylvania, where 47% of voters polled said they would choose Trump, and 44% said they would vote for Biden.

In 2020, Biden beat Trump in Pennsylvania by just over 80,000 votes.

The post Biden campaigns new ad casts Trump reelection bid as quest for revenge appeared first on Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
Biden campaign eager to seize more opportunities to make their case once Trumps New York trial ends

Biden campaign officials have no idea what next week will bring in Donald Trumps hush money trial in New York  including whether the former president will be convicted or found not guilty or whether the whole saga will ultimately end in a mistrial.

But regardless of precisely how the weeks-long historic trial ends, President Joe Bidens reelection campaign is preparing to enter its next, more aggressive phase.

On everything from the ads the campaign runs to the messaging and rhetoric that comes from the president himself to growing the campaigns infrastructure, a person familiar with the campaigns thinking said, the Biden team recognizes that once the Trump trial  and the aggressive media coverage of it  is over, there will be more room and opportunities to make their case to the American people ahead of November.

Biden campaign officials are still grappling with the reality, this person said, that a substantial part of the population still doesnt see that the choice on Election Day will be between Biden and Trump.

And while the campaign will need to calibrate its messaging and strategy based on how exactly Trumps trial ends, this person insisted that at the end of the day, the thrust of their case against the former president wont change  whether Trump emerges a convicted felon or not.

As CNN reported on Friday, the Biden campaign on Friday effectively launched the start of that next phase by releasing a scorching new ad called Snapped, narrated by actor Robert De Niro.

We knew Trump was out of control when he was president, De Niro says over a shot of Trump behind the Resolute Desk. Then he lost the 2020 election and snapped.

The ad describes Trump as desperately trying to cling to power while showing images of the January 6, 2021, insurrection. The phrases dictator and terminate the Constitution flash on screen, followed by a clip of Trump saying, If I dont get elected, its going to be a bloodbath.

Its a message echoed by campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon, who wrote in a memo released Friday that the campaign is ready to go deeper on Trumps rhetoric ahead of next months debate on CNN.

In the month leading up to that first debate, the Biden-Harris campaign will zero in on Trumps dangerous campaign promises and unhinged rhetoric. We will make sure that the voters who will decide this election are reminded of the chaos and harm Trump caused as president  and why they booted him out four years ago, she wrote.

That month will be busy for Biden  the president has two multi-day trips to Europe  one to commemorate D-Day and one for the annual G-7 summit  as well as a fundraising swing to California.

The key moments that the campaign has identified are the anniversary of the Dobbs Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade and took away the federal right to an abortion and the anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, in which 49 people were killed  a tragedy to any normal person, but to Trump just something we should all just get over, OMalley Dillon wrote.

Closing arguments in the Trump trial are set for next week and the jury will receive its instructions from the judge overseeing the case before deliberation begins. There is not an exact time frame for when the jury will make its decision.

CNNs Isaac Dovere, Kristen Holmes and Donald Judd contributed to this report.

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President Bidens reelection campaign on Friday outlined its plan ahead of the June debate against former President Trump, saying it will focus on the 45th presidents rhetoric.

In a memo titled The Road to Atlanta, campaign Chair Jen OMalley Dillon highlighted recent comments from Trump, including that he would be a dictator on day one and that if he doesnt get elected it will be a blood bath.

This is the Trump agenda in 2024. And on June 27, it will be on full display in prime-time for the American people to see in 4K. Joe Biden will hold Donald Trump accountable for all of it on the debate stage  and hes raring to go, OMalley Dillon said.

Trump first made the blood bath remark in a March speech in Ohio, in the context of auto imports, arguing Bidens reelection would hurt that sector. He later used it again to describe the border situation. He made the day one remark in December, saying he wont be a dictator except for on his first day of a new administration.

The campaign plans to organize around two major anniversaries in June, including the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision of 2022 and the Pulse nightclub shooting in 2016.

OMalley Dillon also bashed Trump for having a bare-bones campaign and questioned if he would actually show up for the debate in Atlanta, which will be hosted by CNN on June 27.

The two campaigns agreed to two debates last week after the Biden campaign released a video daring Trump to meet him for debates in June and September. The second debate will be Sept. 10 and hosted by ABC.

OMalley Dillon outlined that Biden wants to talk to Trump about three main topics during the debate: his hand in the Supreme Court repealing Roe v. Wade, his attacks on U.S. democracy, and his economic agenda.

In the month leading up to that first debate, the Biden-Harris campaign will zero in on Trumps dangerous campaign promises and unhinged rhetoric, she said. We will make sure that the voters who will decide this election are reminded of the chaos and harm Trump caused as president  and why they booted him out four years ago.

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US President Joe Biden is likely to miss a Peace Summit in Switzerland in June because of a campaign fundraiser in California. He is expected to attend alongside George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and other stars.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Bloomberg

Details: The Peace Summit in Switzerland is scheduled for 15-16 June, after the G7 meeting in Italy. Several G7 leaders plan to join the conference, but Bloomberg noted that neither Biden nor Vice President Kamala Harris would be there.

Biden is scheduled to fly from the G7 meeting in Italy's south to Los Angeles for the 15 June fundraiser.

Bloomberg stressed that such a decision by Biden had emphasised that he was increasingly moving into campaign mode, seeking to overcome former President Donald Trump's lead in swing states ahead of the election.

Adding to the urgency is the fact that Trump eclipsed Biden's fundraising efforts last month for the first time in the current election cycle, raising US$76 million to Biden's US$51 million.

Bloomberg pointed out that this also reflected a broader pessimism about the conference, which Switzerland has agreed to organise at the request of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

However, about 70 countries will participate in the summit at one level or another. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and others should be present.

At the same time, Bloomberg noted that the absence of China would probably disappoint Zelenskyy.

China and several other countries of the so-called Global South have insisted on Russia's involvement in this process. At the same time, Ukraine and its allies do not want to interact with the Russian Federation until they have a broadly agreed-upon set of principles that will determine any future peace settlement. The Swiss summit was originally envisaged to be a first step towards this goal.

Organisers of the conference have scaled back their ambitions and want to focus on a narrow set of goals, such as nuclear security and prisoner swaps, to broaden the range of participants. However, Bloomberg said that these points did not correspond to Ukraine's peace plan, which provides for the withdrawal of Russian troops and future security guarantees.

Background:

It was reported earlier that the White House had not yet disclosed whether US President Joe Biden would participate in the Peace Summit in Switzerland in June.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasised at a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Kyiv in May that it was important for Biden to be present at the Peace Summit.

Blinken expressed expectations that Presidents Zelenskyy and Biden would have the opportunity to meet in the coming weeks, but did not specify a more certain date.

The media reported that Zelenskyy intended to participate in the D-Day celebrations in France next month, and then go to Italy for a meeting of the G7, of which the United States is a member.

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Joe Biden said months ago that a major Israeli offensive in the city of Rafah, where more than a million displaced Palestinians have been sheltering from the war, would be a red line that would force him to reconsider US support for the longtime ally.

Since then, more than 800,000 have fled Israeli bombardment in the southern Gaza city and aid agencies have compared the situation there to hell on earth. And yet, the president has shown no signs of following through on his words.

His administration now faces even greater pressure to act after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel on Friday to immediately halt its military offensive in Rafah in a landmark emergency ruling that invoked the Genocide Convention.

Dr H.A. Hellyer, a scholar of security studies and the Middle East at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the Biden administration risks a massive blow to American credibility, such as it is, if it fails to support the courts order.

The ICJ ruling is not in the abstract, nor is it in need of detailed interpretation. Its very clear, he said. This is the highest court in the world, and theyve said any action in Rafah that could bring about the destruction of Palestinians needs to immediately stop. So you either support international law or you dont.

Mr Biden has repeatedly expressed his strong opposition to a major offensive in Rafah, which had become the last refuge for more than a million Palestinians who had fled from the war raging in other parts of Gaza. It is also where most aid agencies are operating.

Magistrates are seen at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as part of South Africa's request on a Gaza ceasefire in The Hague, on May 24, 2024, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Hamas movement. (AFP via Getty Images)

In a March interview with MSNBC , when asked whether an Israeli invasion of Rafah would be a red line for him, he replied: It is a red line but Im never going to leave Israel. The defense of Israel is still critical.

His officials have repeatedly said the US would not support a major military operation in Gazas southern city without a credible ... executable plan to protect civilians.

Earlier this month, the president went so far as to pause a shipment of heavy weapons bound for Israel as it prepared its attack on the city. But he has not taken any further action to restrict Israeli use of American-made arms despite longstanding US law prohibiting arms transfers to nations that violate international humanitarian law.

Absent any concrete threat of consequences from Mr Biden, Israel has rebuffed the presidents concerns and has launched an attack on Rafah that has forced 800,000 to flee and forced the closure of the main crossing for humanitarian aid into the territory even as famine grips northern Gaza .

Israeli bombardment killed at least 60 Palestinians on Thursday, according to Palestinian health officials, and tanks advanced in the southeast of the city.

Aid agencies on the ground have painted an increasingly apocalyptic picture of the situation.

Suze van Meegan, the Norwegian Refugee Councils emergency response leader in Gaza, described Rafah as three entirely different worlds.

The east is an archetypal war zone, the middle is a ghost town, and the west is a congested mass of people living in deplorable conditions," she said in a statement .

Displaced Palestinians arrive in central Gaza after fleeing from the southern Gaza city of Rafah in Deir al Balah, on May 9, 2024. (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Those descriptions stand in stark contrast to sanitised statements from the White House. National security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters Wednesday that Israels operation in Rafah has been more targeted and limited, and has not involved major military operations into the heart of dense urban areas.

He said there was no mathematical formula for judging the scale of the attack, but added: What were going to be looking at is whether there is a lot of death and destruction from this operation or if it is more precise and proportional.

Dr Hellyer said Mr Bidens red line in Rafah has been broken pretty much every single day since he made that statement as Israel launched a military operation in the city, which has forced the administration into a series of reversals and equivocations.

The only way to keep that red line was for DC to try to reshape it. So it became incredibly squiggly. It became more about not using big, big, big, bombs, and very quickly, but if they do other things, and it is done over a longer period, then they are not going to consider that breaking the red line, he added. Its bizarre.

The State Department and the White House did not respond to requests for comment.

In its ruling on Friday, ICJ President Nawaf Salam said that fears about an operation in Rafah have materialized, and the humanitarian situation is now to be characterized as disastrous.

As well as ordering a halt to the offensive, the court also decreed that Israel must keep the Rafah crossing into Egypt open for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

Benny Gantz, a member of Israels war cabinet, said in response to the ruling: We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for.

Children walk after receiving food, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip April 22, 2024 (REUTERS)

Fridays ruling is particularly uncomfortable for the Biden administration because it has spent several years promoting the idea of a rules-based order, a term for the use of international law to govern relations between states.

Mr Biden has used the phrase at least 16 times since taking office, and the variation rules-based international order six times, according to a count by The Independent.

The ruling also follows an announcement earlier this week from the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court that he was seeking an arrest warrant for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and defense minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, on charges of crimes against humanity.

The Biden administration hit out at the ruling, claiming that the ICC did not have jurisdiction over the conflict to enforce the warrants.

The president now faces a choice of doubling down and contradicting a second international court in the space of one week, or of enforcing its previously stated red lines and reconsidering US support for Israels devastating war.
President Biden has won the Idaho Democratic presidential caucuses, according to a projection from Decision Desk HQ.

Biden has already been the partys presumptive nominee for more than two months, having clinched enough delegates in March. He was the only major active candidate on the ballot Thursday. His win will net him at least most of the states 23 pledged delegates up for grabs.

The ballot also included a few challengers, including author Marianne Williamson and Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.), the latter of whom has dropped out and endorsed Biden. Voters also could choose the uncommitted option, as some voters have in several other states in protest of the Biden administrations support for Israel in its war against Hamas.

Candidates, or the uncommitted option, must receive at least 15 percent of the vote statewide or in a congressional district to win a delegate.

The Idaho Republican presidential caucuses, which former President Trump comfortably won, were held in March.

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In the late summer of 2023, a small group of American and British political strategists sat down for dinner at a restaurant in Londons Marylebone neighborhood.

On the menu: French cuisine and political anxiety.

The gathering included several key Labour Party officials and two outspoken American centrists, Matt Bennett and Josh Freed, both leaders of the think tank Third Way. Conversation quickly turned to Labours political messaging, which remained fuzzy even as the ruling Conservatives flailed in the polls.

As good as things looked for Labour, there had been some unsettling political misses  most notably, a by-election for Boris Johnsons west London seat that Labour lost in an upset, largely because of backlash against local policies discouraging the use of cars.

Was it time, some party officials wondered, to itemize a more precise governing agenda, to make it harder for the Tories to brand them with a radical caricature?

Freed and Bennett responded with one voice: Dont do it.

It would not solve any of Labours problems to churn out reams of well-intentioned white papers, they said; on the contrary, presenting that kind of policy library would just offer the Conservatives countless tiny targets to shoot at. Not long after the dinner, Bennett recalled citing the 2016 U.S. election as a proof point.

I pointed out that Hillarys campaign had 290 or so policy ideas on their website; Trump had seven, Bennett said, perhaps exaggerating, but not by much.

For an overall message, the Americans advised Labour: Keep it simple, keep it safe  just as Joe Biden did in 2020.

It was soothing advice for members of Labours brain trust, most of whom were already inclined to campaign in welcoming generalities rather than crisp plans. Their chief aim was to return the party to the political mainstream and remind voters every day that the Conservatives had been in charge for ages and the country was a wreck.

That is precisely what Labour has done, and nine months later the party appears poised for a smashing victory in a July 4 snap election called by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Labour has articulated a broadly aspirational agenda, grounded in themes of economic opportunity, national renewal and seething public contempt for the depleted Tories. According to the polls, the main question is not whether Labour will win, but whether the Conservatives will be annihilated or merely thrashed.



Even if Biden-style politics carries the day on July 4, Labour should be careful about putting too much stock in that American playbook.

In fact, they should probably discard it on July 5.

The feeble state of Bidens reelection campaign is a testament to the limits of his political methods, and an object lesson in why Labour should not follow his example past Election Day. What worked for Biden in 2020  offering himself to a wide community of voters as a safe harbor amid the gales of Trumpism  has failed him badly as president. His party is taking a staggering risk by putting its faith in that approach again.

The reasons why Bidenism isnt working must be as apparent to British political professionals as they are to American voters. Having amassed a large electoral majority of people opposed to Donald Trump, Biden never fully cemented them into an affirmatively pro-Biden coalition. He campaigned on confident promises to take on the great crises of our time  the Covid pandemic, climate change, racial injustice  but has never put much effort, during the election or since, into telling voters what that might actually mean for their lives. Few voters credit the Biden administration with the colossal policy victories it has achieved.

And after winning the presidency as a calming and grandfatherly figure, Biden quickly shrank into a less appealing persona: the remote old man.

That last problem is one that Labour does not need to worry about. The likely next prime minister, Keir Starmer, is belittled in Britain as a scripted and wooden speaker. Next to Biden, the 61-year-old Starmer looks like John F. Kennedy or Tony Blair.

Yet Labour faces an even more perilous challenge than the one Democrats have confronted in closing the gap between vaulting campaign rhetoric and the implementation and salesmanship of policy. The condition of the U.K.  its government finances, health care system, public infrastructure and global competitiveness  is by any measure far grimmer than that of Joe Bidens America.

The next government there will not be jousting over whether to spend $1 trillion or $6 trillion on a transformational economic agenda, as Bidens Democrats did in 2021 and 2022. It will be trying to figure out whether there is any spare change in the treasury to pay for any of the social improvements the electorate is desperate to see.

In that context, Bidens political predicament right now looks even more piteous. He has an imposing record to campaign on, one that no Labour prime minister can realistically expect to amass in the coming years. But most Americans experience Biden as a spectral presence. They do not hear him speaking to their immediate concerns  the cost of living, most of all  if they hear him speaking at all.

The president and his aides point back endlessly to the dark days of his 2020 campaign, accusing the media of writing Biden off now as it did when Bernie Sanders was steamrolling over him in Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada, before the Democratic campaign turned upside down in South Carolina.

I dont know any journalist, actually, who thinks that Biden cant win in November. He is running against one of the most reviled people in American political history. A low-risk, low-energy campaign worked once for Biden. It might work again, especially if Donald Trump is a felon by the fall.

But it is difficult, looking at the American campaign today, to see the Biden approach as a model for any countrys next generation. Labours likely victory on those terms looks less like a vision of the political future than an image from a faraway place that has traveled across galactic distances to arrive, light years later, in an America where our version of the same political moment is long over. It is a mirage.

At the Third Way-Labour Party dinner in Marylebone last year, Biden was not the only American mentioned as a political model.



When I spoke to Bennett and Freed last year about the gathering, I asked if they had mentioned anyone else as a useful American template for 21st-century center-left politics  someone, perhaps, like Rep. Abigail Spanberger, the former intelligence operative-turned-moderate lawmaker who is now running for governor of Virginia.

The two men laughed at the question. They had pointed Labour to one person besides Biden as an American model, and it was Spanberger.

She has been, at times, a tart critic of Bidenism, declaring after Democrats defeats in the 2021 off-year elections that the president was trying to govern as Franklin Roosevelt when no one elected him to remake the country. Bennett held her up as a forceful communicator for Democratic values.

We did point to her as somebody who has been particularly effective at communicating in poetry, Bennett said, but in ways that dont feel like shes evading the question.

Labour has campaigned not quite in poetry but at least in vivid themes. Britains electorate looks ready to reward them for it.

We will find out soon if the party is better prepared than Biden to answer the hard questions that come with power.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Bay Bridge traffic Friday was severely backed up due to a big rig fire on the westbound level of the bridge earlier. The big rig caught fire east of Treasure Island Road in San Francisco, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Photo: San Francisco Fire Department

Photo: Oakland FD



Earlier, the right and center lanes were blocked. All lanes reopened just before 6 p.m.

The big rig that caught fire was carrying a produce load, according to the San Francisco Fire Department.

The blaze was quickly extinguished by SFFD Treasure Island crews.

Motorists are being advised to expect delays and use alternate routes if possible. SFFD is worked to extinguish the smoldering load and worked with the CHP to tow the vehicle.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Beaches in West Michigan are expected to be packed this holiday weekend as the weather begins to warm up. Thats putting the heat on lawmakers in Lansing to work on a new bill that would introduce kids to water safety.

Senate Bill No. 736 was introduced in the Michigan Senate in February. It is a push to add a new program to schools all about water safety.

The model program would include topics on flotation devices, awareness of water conditions, the importance of swim lessons and more.

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Education. If it is passed by the Senate, it would then head to the House.

DNR hopes to reduce drownings with double red flags

This legislation is part of a push by the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, an organization that provides education and data about the Great Lakes, with the goal of saving lives.

The project reports that there have been 14 Great Lakes drownings in 2024, five of which happened in Lake Michigan. With summer around the corner, leaders at the project said they expect those numbers to rise, but with proper education, they added it could help keep people safe in the water.

What we do believe is that a water safety school curriculum would be the fastest approach to reach the largest audience in the shortest amount of time, that would have the maximum impact, Dave Benjamin, the executive director of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, said. This should be fast-tracked, it should be done tomorrow. Get it, get it done, so it can be in school next fall or next spring at the latest.

As you head out to the lake this summer, there are some things you should keep in mind.

First, always pay attention to the flag warnings on the beach. Double red flags mean you are not allowed to enter the water and swimmers can be fined up to $500 for entering the water. Single red flags mean extremely dangerous conditions, yellow means use caution and green means calm conditions.

Lake Effect: What changes scientists are seeing on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan has very strong currents, so if you happen to get stuck in a current, try not to panic. Flip over on your back and float, then swim parallel to the shore until you feel yourself leave the current. Only then should you try to swim back to shore.

Many beaches on the lakeshore have piers, but you should never jump off of them. There are typically very strong underwater currents near them.

State parks in Michigan do not have lifeguards and many cities along the lakeshore do not have lifeguards either. Benjamin said he is working to encourage cities to set up lifeguard programs on the lake, but in the meantime, if you see someone in trouble in the water, unless you have training, do not go into the water to help. Instead, call for help and throw them a lifesaving device.

Its very dangerous to try and rescue someone, so what we advocate is if you dont have lifeguard training, lifeguard equipment and the current physical fitness of a lifeguard, you should not be entering the water to make a rescue, Benjamin said.

They just need to start: South Haven council considers lifeguard program

You can check to see current conditions near you here. You can also check out our Lake Michigan Summer Beach Guide here.

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  As summer approaches, officials with the Bill and Hillary Clinton Airport are offering travelers with four new nonstop flight destinations.

In partnership with Allegiant, the airport is offering seasonal flights to the following locations:

St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida via St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)

Los Angeles, California via Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Sanford, Florida via Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)

Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida via Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)

Allegiants chief revenue officer Drew Wells explained the convenience of nonstop flights ahead of summer vacations.

Anticipating accelerated travel demand, we are excited to bring back these seasonal routes for passengers to enjoy some of our networks most popular destinations just in time for summer vacations, Wells said. Allegiants affordable, all-nonstop flights allow customers to spend more time in their destination without the hassle of layovers or connections.

Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport announces second daily nonstop flight to New York

The route to St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida will begin May 24. The route to Los Angeles, California will begin May 29. The route to Sanford, Florida will begin May 30. The route to Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida will begin May 31.

To view flight days, times and fares, visit Allegiant.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

The post Bipartisan border bill loses support, fails procedural vote in U.S. Senate appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine also voted against the bill after being just one of four Republicans  including Lankford, Murkowski and Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah  to support the initial package.

Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

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The post Bipartisan border bill loses support, fails procedural vote in U.S. Senate appeared first on Maine Morning Star.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE

The post Bipartisan border bill loses support, fails procedural vote in U.S. Senate appeared first on Ohio Capital Journal.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Photo by Kent Nishimura / Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

The post Bipartisan border bill loses support, fails procedural vote in U.S. Senate appeared first on Source New Mexico.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

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Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

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She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

The post Bipartisan border bill loses support, fails procedural vote in U.S. Senate appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

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U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, flanked by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, left, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, speaks during a news conference to support a border security bill on Wednesday. The bill failed on a procedural vote Thursday. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images) (This image cannot be republished unless you have a Getty subscription.)

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Senate failed Thursday to advance a border security bill as both parties seek to hone their messages on immigration policy in the runup to Novembers elections.

The Senate bill failed to advance on a 43-50 procedural vote. The chamber already rejected the measure as part of a broader foreign aid package earlier this year. The bill, negotiated with the White House and a bipartisan trio of senators in the hopes of winning broad appeal, would have overhauled immigration law for the first time in more than 30 years.

Two of the border deals chief Senate negotiators, Oklahoma Republican James Lankford and Arizona independent Kyrsten Sinema, voted against advancing the measure Thursday, protesting what they said was an unserious process focused on political optics. The bills third major sponsor, Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy, voted in favor.

The procedural vote to advance to debate on the bill came as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer aimed to contrast Democrats approach to immigration policy with Republicans ahead of the November elections. The issue continues to rise as a top concern for voters and remains a core campaign theme for the GOP and its presumptive presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump.

Both chambers are readying other votes seemingly aimed at highlighting election themes.

The Democratic-led Senate is teeing up votes as early as next month on access to contraceptives, and protections for in vitro fertilization, or IVF, as Democrats have continued to campaign on the issue of reproductive rights.

The Republican-controlled House is moving forward with immigration related legislation, such as barring noncitizens from voting in federal elections, something that is rare and already illegal, as the GOP continues to highlight its disagreements with the White House over immigration policy.

Shortly after the Senate vote, President Joe Biden in a statement said Senate Republicans put partisan politics ahead of our countrys national security.

Congressional Republicans do not care about securing the border or fixing Americas broken immigration system, he said. If they did, they would have voted for the toughest border enforcement in history.

Losing support

The border security bill, S.4361, received fewer votes Thursday as a standalone bill than it had as part of the larger foreign aid package in February, when it failed on a 49-50 procedural vote. Sixty votes are needed to advance bills in the Senate.

The bill did not get all Democrats on board, which Schumer acknowledged earlier this week was a possibility.

We do not expect every Democrat or every Republican to come out in favor of this bill, Schumer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. The only way to pass this bill  or any border bill  is with broad bipartisan support.

But the bill failed to attract that broad support, losing backing even from Democrats whod voted for the foreign aid package.

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker said in a Wednesday statement that while he voted for the larger package in early February  mostly because it included critical aid to Ukraine  he would not do so this time around because the bill was too restrictive.

I will not vote for the bill coming to the Senate floor this week because it includes several provisions that will violate Americans shared values, Booker said. The proposed bill would exclude people fleeing violence and persecution from seeking asylum and instead doubles down on failed anti-immigrant policies that encourage irregular immigration.

Another cynical, political game

Democratic senators who voted against moving the bill forward included Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler of California, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Booker. Independents Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Sinema also voted against.

Sinema said she voted against advancing her own bill because she felt Democrats were using her bill to point the finger back at the other party.

Yet another cynical, political game, she said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only Republican to vote to advance the bill after Lankford voted against the bill he helped write.

Lankford said Thursdays vote was a prop.

Everyone sees this for what it is, he said. It is not an actual effort to make law, it is an effort to do political messaging.

Padilla, who voted against the larger package, said on the Senate floor Thursday that he was disappointed Democrats were voting on the bill again because it did not address the root causes of migration or create lawful pathways to citizenship for children brought into the U.S. without authorization known as Dreamers, farmworkers, and noncitizens who have been in the country for decades.

He urged other Democrats to vote no.

The proposal before us was initially supposed to be a concession, a ransom to be paid to Republicans to pass urgent and critical aid to Ukraine, Padilla said. Whats this concession for now? Its hard to swallow.

Senate Republicans accused Democrats of bringing the bill as a political stunt.

One thing the American people dont have to wonder about is why Washington Democrats are suddenly champing at the bit to convince their constituents that they care about border security, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on the Senate floor Thursday. (Americans) know the solution is not cynical Senate theater.

Biden called McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday night to ask them to vote for the bill, but both Republican leaders rejected that appeal.

First vote

Lankford, Sinema and Murphy introduced the bill earlier this year, optimistic that months of bipartisan negotiations could lead to the first immigration policy overhaul in decades.

But Trump opposed the measure, and after those senators released the legislative text, House Republicans said they would fall in line with the former president. Senate Republicans then walked away from the deal they had said would be needed in order for passage of a supplemental foreign aid package to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region.

The sweeping border security bill would have raised the bar for migrants claiming asylum, clarified the White Houses parole authority, ended the practice of allowing migrants to live in U.S. communities as they await their asylum hearings, and given Biden the executive authority to close the southern border when asylum claims reached high levels, among other things.

Dueling messages

The day leading up to Thursdays vote, Senate Democrats and Republicans held dueling press conferences on the bill.

Democrats, including Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, argued that the bill negotiated earlier in the year would address the fentanyl crisis by providing new scanning technology at ports of entry and increasing staffing for custom agents.

Stabenow said shes tired of Senate Republicans saying that somebody should do something about the border, and that Thursdays vote would give them an opportunity to address the southern border.

She was joined by Democratic Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who talked about how many people in their states had died from fentanyl overdoses.

Republicans in their press conference argued that Democrats were holding a second vote to protect vulnerable incumbents in competitive races in Montana, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

It is an election-year political stunt designed to give our Democratic colleagues the appearance of doing something about this problem without doing anything, Tennessee GOP Sen. Marsha Blackburn said Wednesday.

She was joined by Republican Sens. Roger Marshall of Kansas, Rick Scott of Florida, Eric Schmitt of Missouri, John Coryn of Texas, J.D. Vance of Ohio and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin.

House opposition

Even if the border security bill passed the Senate, it would have no chance in the House, where Johnson has vowed it will be dead on arrival.

The Louisiana Republican in a Wednesday press conference called the measure a messaging bill and said Schumer was trying to give his vulnerable members cover.

And not all House Democrats were on board with the bill negotiated out of the Senate.

The chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Nanette Barragan of California, slammed Senate Democrats for putting forth the legislation and urged them to abandon the effort.

We are disappointed that the Senate will once again vote on an already-failed border bill in a move that only splits the Democratic Caucus over extreme and unworkable enforcement-only policies, they wrote in a statement.

This framework, which was constructed under Republican hostage-taking, does nothing to address the longstanding updates needed to modernize our outdated immigration system, create more legal pathways, and recognize the enormous contributions of immigrants to communities and our economy.

Latino Democrats also voiced opposition to the bill when it was first released because it contained many hard-line policies that were reminiscent of the Trump administration.

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Democrats are leaning into protecting birth control as part of their election year push on reproductive rights, looking to emphasize Republican efforts opposing protections many voters say they support.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) plans to hold a vote next month on the Right to Contraception Act.

The effort will likely be blocked, but Democrats want to get Republicans on the record on contraception, especially as the GOP struggles with how to message its stance on reproductive rights in the wake of the Supreme Courts decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

Republicans blocked the same legislation last year, arguing it was written to protect abortion drugs rather than contraceptives.

Polling consistently shows there is broad bipartisan support for birth control. According to the annual Gallup values and beliefs poll released last year, 88 percent of Americans said birth control was morally acceptable.

More recently, a February Impact Research poll commissioned by Americans for Contraception found contraception mobilizes voters who are currently less enthusiastic about the election, including young Hispanic and female voters and Black voters.

Most Republicans argue birth control isnt at risk, and the people opposed to it are in a small minority. They say bills to protect access solve problems that dont exist and are attempts to score political points.

If thats the case, I dont know why you dont just support a bill that doesnt matter anyway and make the issue go away, instead of giving Democrats ammunition, said Mary Ziegler, law professor at the University of California, Davis School of Law and a leading abortion politics scholar.

Former President Trump this week brought the issue back into the national spotlight when he indicated in a television interview he would leave contraception policy to the states but was supportive of efforts to limit access.

The presumptive GOP presidential nominee quickly backtracked on social media, saying I have never and never will advocate imposing restrictions on birth control or other contraceptives.

Trump then went further, saying I do not support a ban on birth control, and neither will the Republican Party.

But recent moves by Republican state legislators and governors tell a different story and have added to the sense of urgency for reproductive-rights advocates and Democrats.

In Arizona earlier this year, Republicans unanimously blocked legislation to protect the right to contraception. In Tennessee, House Republicans voted down a bill in committee that would have clarified that the states abortion ban does not threaten access to contraceptive care or fertility treatments.

In Missouri, a comprehensive bill to support womens health care  including bolstering access to contraception  was stalled for months because Republicans were falsely conflating birth control with abortion medication.

According to the Guttmacher Institute, an abortion-rights research group, lawmakers in 27 states during this legislative session introduced more than 59 bills and proposed constitutional amendments that would codify the right to access contraception.

Only the Democratic-controlled Virginia Legislature was able to pass legislation that would have codified the right to contraception in the state constitution.

But Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) vetoed the bill, saying he supported the right to contraception but was concerned about the bills religious liberty implications. He also said in his veto message that the measure would have interfered with the rights of parents.

Ziegler said Youngkins veto message highlights the GOP messaging problem.

Theyre pro the right to contraception, but theyre really ambivalent about what that means, she said.

Democrats are seeking to capitalize on the broader issue of reproductive rights beyond abortion, and see Trumps comments and the state-level fights on contraception as examples of just how potent the issue can be.

Contraception should be a nonnegotiable reproductive right, but Republican lawmakers in state legislatures are honing in on birth control as their latest target, said Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee.

Contraception empowers Americans to choose whether and how to build their families  Republican legislators deserve no role in shaping these decisions, she added.

Major anti-abortion groups say they are neutral on birth control and maintain theres no access problem.

Medicare and Medicaid cover it. Title X [the federal family planning program] focuses on it. And for years weve been sold the apparently false narrative that Planned Parenthood somehow had this under control. Can we get our almost $700 million back from Planned Parenthood if they dropped that ball? said Kristi Hamrick, chief policy strategist with Students for Life of America.

But access on the ground is a different story.

We dont have broad access to the full range of contraceptive methods for everyone in this country, particularly not for people who are struggling to make ends meet, said Rachel Fey, vice president of strategic policy at Power to Decide, an organization that advocates for sexual and reproductive choice.

Title X, the federal grant program that supports family planning services to low-income women, has seen flat funding since fiscal 2014, making it unable to meet the growing demand for family planning services.

In Texas, a federal judge ruled Title X clinics cant provide contraception to teens without parental consent. The state also booted Planned Parenthood clinics from Medicaid, leaving low-income women with limited options.

This year, Indiana required hospitals to offer long-term birth control access to new mothers on Medicaid. But it stripped IUDs from the law because Republicans considered the intrauterine devices to be abortive.

There have been concerns over access to birth control well before the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision, but experts said the ruling has made it harder to separate the issue of contraception from the politics of abortion.

Thats really the dilemma for the GOP, Ziegler said. I think most Republicans would say theyre for contraception. But there are deeper disagreements about what contraception is.

Fey noted theres a parallel between the erosion of abortion rights and whats happening with contraception.

People understand all the nuances in which abortion exists in their lives and the lives of their loved ones. And I think the same is true of contraception, she said, so its not an issue that needs much more stoking.

I think it is just that there is an acute threat right now. And, you know, that threat is mirroring, in many ways, how we got to where we are when it comes to abortion access in this country.

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Blind and deaf dog Teddy got lost in a neighbors yard. Police called to help him shot him dead

Teddy a deaf and blind 13-pound Shih Tzu was shot dead by a police officer. Thousands of people are now demanding the cops resignation (Nicholas Hunter/KOMU)

A police officer shot dead a tiny blind and deaf dog in Missouri and now thousandsa re demanding the cop lose his job over the incident.

Teddy, a 13-pound Shih Tzu, was in Sturgeon, Missouri, when officers were called to a reported injured animal on Sunday.

Police body cam footage showed an officer - identified by local media as Myron Woodson - chasing Teddy around a large field and making several unsuccessful attempts to catch him. The City of Sturgeon later claimed the officer believed Teddy had been infected with rabies.

Based on the behavior exhibited by the dog, believing the dog to be severely injured or infected with rabies, and as the officer feared being bitten and being infected with rabies, the SPD officer felt that his only option was to put the animal down, a post on the Citys Facebook read.

The officers decision sparked fury online with people taking to the small towns Facebook page to describe the local police as a joke, as well as disgusting and disappointing after attempting to justify the officers actions.

Officials, after just four days, determined the officer was not wrong in his actions.

Teddy a 13-pound disabled Shih Tzu was shot dead by a police officer - as the internet is now demanding the cops resignation (Nicholas Hunter/KOMU)

It was later learned that Teddys behavior was due to the fact that he was both deaf and blind.

Responding to the Citys explanation of the incident, many social media users piled in. UNACCEPTABLE!!!!! Sturgeon Police force is seriously a joke, one user wrote. Another went further, writing: This is a disgrace. The officer involved needs to be immediately removed from duty and charged with felony animal abuse.

I pray the owner sues the city, the mayor, the officer and the department. I will be filing a complaint with the State Attorney Generals Office. The entire city council should resign after hiring this man.

The officer who shot Teddy, believed he was infected rabies. His behavior was due to the fact that he was deaf and blind (City of Sturgeon/Facebook)

Officer Woodson had shot the animal in order to protect against possible injury to citizens, another Facebook post from the City read. Outraged citizens once again blasted the force and authorities.

What a disgusting and disappointing response to abuse of power and neglect of an animal, wrote one person.

If its within his authority to shoot a dog who is not a clear threat to anyone then no person or animal is safe in our town. I am so beyond disappointed in this city, said another.

Another user added: That dog was injured and confused, not rabid. He wasnt even barking or being aggressive. He didnt even yelp when the catch pole was put on him. I am just in shock over this.

Others questioned the caliber of officers being hired in Sturgeon, with one person writing: If your officers are that afraid of a little dog wandering around... maybe, just maybe, they shouldnt be police officers.

According to his owner, Nicolas Hunter, Teddy was five-years-old and was born deaf, but had only lost his sight around two years ago. Despite this, he was full of life. On the day of the incident he had escaped from his kennel and his collar had slipped off.

In a video shared with ABC 17 News by Mr Hunter, showed his encounter with officer Woodson, though the topic of rabies is never stated.

Mr Hunter said Teddy was up to date on all of his shots, including rabies.

"The officer was going strictly based off the fact that the dog walks with his head sideways due to him being deaf and blind," he said.

Mr Hunter told ABC 17 that he had already filed a lawsuit against the city, and that despite the Citys statement on Facebook, he had not been contacted personally by the mayors office. He said that the statement had contradicted everything that he had previously spoken about with officer Woodson.

The Independent has reached out to the City of Sturgeon for response to their findings and online statements.
U.S. President Joe Biden will likely miss the upcoming peace summit to be held on June 15-16 in Switzerland, Bloomberg reported on May 23, citing its undisclosed sources.

According to the news outlet, the event clashes with a campaign fundraiser he is set to attend alongside, among others, George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Jimmy Kimmel.

U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on May 22 that he cannot yet confirm Biden's participation in the peace summit.

The summit will be centered around Ukraine's 10-point peace formula, a plan first outlined by President Volodymyr Zelensky in fall 2022 that calls for a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied Ukrainian lands.

Over 60 countries have confirmed their participation in the global peace summit, including India.

Zelensky previously ruled out Russia's participation in the event, as it continues to attack Ukraine on a daily basis.

People familiar with the matter who asked not to be named told Bloomberg that Biden will attend a G7 summit to be held from June 13-15 in Italy but will fly from there to Los Angeles for the June 15 fundraiser.

Zelensky said on May 19 that he anticipates the peace summit will yield an action plan addressing three key areas: free navigation to protect port infrastructure, global food security, and Ukraine's economic development.

Additional discussions will focus on nuclear and energy security to prevent attacks on critical infrastructure, and another key point will be about the exchange of captives and return of deported children.

Zelensky emphasized the importance of involving countries from various regions, noting their influence on Russia.

"Even if they see the world differently, it is important to work to engage them because they have influence. Any kind of influence: defense  at the level of arms trade, economy  somewhere," Zelensky said.

"They have an influence on Russia. And the more such countries we have on our side  on the side of ending the war,  the more Russia will have to take it into account," he added.

Read also: Modi confirms Indias participation in Ukraines Global Peace Summit

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CHARLEVOIX  In a unanimous decision, the Health Department of Northwest Michigan's Board of Health opted not to appeal Otsego County Judge Colin Hunter's recent ruling that questioned the constitutionality of certain state statutes used to enforce COVID-19 restrictions during the pandemic.

Judge Hunter's ruling stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Ian Murphy, owner of the Iron Pig Smokehouse bar and restaurant in Gaylord. The lawsuit challenged the legality of state statutes cited by the health department in issuing emergency public health orders. These orders led to the temporary loss of the Iron Pigs liquor license and food permit, as well as fines and the eventual forced closure of the business for remaining open during parts of the pandemic.

Board members cited financial concerns as the primary reason for not pursuing an appeal. The Board of Health's attorney Mathew Cross noted that $15,000 had already been spent on the case, and an additional $15,000 could be required if they chose to appeal the decision.

Board of Health Chair Scott Hankins was the first to express his reluctance to spend more money on defending lawsuits against the health department. He emphasized that the Michigan Attorney Generals office should handle the defense of the Michigan public health code. Hankins added that continuing to fund these legal battles only benefits attorneys and declared his opposition to pursuing an appeal.

Weve had several lawsuits that have been addressed to this board and this health department in the last few years. We have a judge's decision  some are going to like it and some are going to hate it  but we have a judge's determination and in the back of my mind I dont want to spend any more money from our four counties to defend what should be defended, in my not so humble opinion, by the Michigan Attorney Generals office," said Hankins. "This is a Michigan public health code and I think if the state wants to pick this up they certainly have every right to do so but I dont believe that our constituents in Otsego, Antrim, Charlevoix and Emmet counties should be continually bled dry ... the only people who win in this deal are the attorneys. I am not in favor of pursuing the appeal."

Ian Murphy's attorney David Delaney speaks to the Board of Health at the May 21, 2024 special meeting.

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More: Judge's ruling again questions legal validity of health laws used for pandemic restrictions

Otsego County board members Jonathan Turnbull and Henry Mason expressed concerns about the unconstitutionality of the pandemic restrictions that remained unaddressed, but reiterated their desire to avoid spending additional taxpayer dollars.

After the board's unanimous vote to not appeal Hunter's decision, Murphy addressed the board to express his gratitude and emphasize that his stance was not a personal attack on Health Officer Dan Thorell or his predecessor, Lisa Peacock.

However, Murphy still voiced his dissatisfaction with parts of Hunter's ruling and declared his intention to appeal. He criticized the lack of clear guidelines in the current legislation regarding epidemics, stating, "The standards for 2451 are virtually non-existent."

Murphy also stressed his reluctance to use taxpayer dollars for the appeal but felt compelled to continue the legal battle, citing the state's actions against his business, including a cease and desist order issued before Thanksgiving.

I am not satisfied with Judge Hunters ruling. I will be appealing. I am not satisfied with 2451 being constitutional while it sits there and while I do have a Circuit Court remedy it is not good enough. The standards that were spoken of earlier, the guardrails for 2451 are virtually non-existent," Murphy said. "Having said that, the last thing I want to do is spend anyones taxpayer dollars defending this nonsense but a.) I didnt start it and b.) I need to finish it. Thank you for not trying to spend more of the taxpayer dollars and not trying to continue to come after me, but the state and this health department has come after me ... they put a cease and desist on my business the day before Thanksgiving, one of the biggest bar nights of the year. Like I said, I didnt start it but I need to finish it."

In his decision, Hunter reaffirmed his earlier ruling that one of the health department's statutes was unconstitutional and extended this finding to a related law. While he upheld the constitutionality of another statute used by HDNW, Hunter also determined that it violated Murphy's right to due process.

 Contact reporter Annie Doyle at (231) 675-0099 and adoyle@charlevoixcourier.com

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Board of Health declines to appeal COVID-19 ruling, Murphy vows to continue legal battle
Bodies of 3 more hostages are recovered from Gaza, Israeli army says

Relatives and supporters of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza hold photos of hostages during a performance in Tel Aviv this week calling for their return. (Oded Balilty / Associated Press)

The bodies of three more slain hostages were recovered overnight from Gaza, Israels army said Friday.

The bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum and Orion Hernandez Radoux were found and their families have been notified, the army said. It said the three were killed on the day of the Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel and their bodies were taken to Gaza.

The announcement comes less than a week after the army said it found the bodies of three other Israeli hostages .

Hamas-led militants killed about 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and abducted around 250 others in the Oct. 7 attack. About half of those hostages have since been freed, most in swaps for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November.

Israel says around 100 hostages are still captive in Gaza, along with the bodies of at least 39 more, while 17 bodies of hostages have been recovered.

Read more: Top U.N. court orders Israel to halt military assault in Rafah; Israel is unlikely to comply

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to eliminate Hamas and bring all the hostages back, but hes made little progress. He faces pressure to resign, and the U.S. has threatened to scale back its support because of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

On Friday, Netanyahu said the country had a duty to do everything to return those abducted, both those killed and those who are alive.

In a post on X, French President Emmanuel Macron offered condolences to the family of Hernandez-Radoux, a French Mexican citizen, saying France remains committed to releasing the hostages.

Read more: In Gaza, Israeli military finds bodies of 3 hostages who were killed at a music festival

On the hostages, Israelis are divided into two main camps: those who want the government to put the war on hold and free the hostages, and others who think the hostages are an unfortunate price to pay for defeating Hamas. On-and-off negotiations mediated by Qatar, the United States and Egypt have yielded little.

Anger is growing at home over the governments handling of the hostage crisis .

This week a group representing the families of hostages released new video showing Hamas capture of five female Israeli soldiers near the Gaza border Oct. 7. The video shows several of the young soldiers bloody and wounded. In one scene, a militant tells one of the terrified women she is beautiful. The video sparked more protests across the country calling for the hostages release.

The army said Friday the hostages were found during an operation in Jabaliya. Military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a news conference that the army was able to retrieve the bodies based on critical intelligence uncovered last week by Israeli forces operating in Gaza.

The group representing the families of the hostages said the bodies had been returned to their families for burial.

Nisenbaum, 59, was a Brazilian Israeli from the southern city of Sderot. He was taken hostage when he went to rescue his 4-year-old granddaughter.

Hernandez Radoux, 30, was taken from the Nova music festival, which he attended with his partner, Shani Louk. Louks body was one of those found by the army nearly a week ago.

Yablonka, 42, a father of two, was also taken from the music festival. His family in December told the Associated Press that he loved music. Yablonkas family had no news of him for nearly two months after hed been taken, not knowing whether he was alive or dead.

Israels bombardment and ground assaults since the war began have killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Its figures do not differentiate between combatants and civilians.

The war has pushed a devastated Gaza into a humanitarian crisis, with increasing warnings by aid and world groups of famine.

Though the war has weakened Hamas' capabilities, militants are regrouping in some of the hardest-hit areas in northern Gaza and resuming rocket attacks into nearby Israeli communities. Israel says its troops are operating in Rafah in the south, in central Gaza and in Jabaliya in the north.

Mednick writes for the Associated Press. AP writers Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv and John Leicester in Le Pecq, France, contributed to this report.





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The bodies of two missing Kansas women were found in a freezer in Oklahoma, officials and news outlets reported.

Court documents filed May 15 and recently unsealed indicated the bodies were found April 14 buried in a freezer at a rented cow pasture in Texas County, Oklahoma, according to NBC News and the Associated Press.

Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, were traveling together to pick up children in March, according to a March 30 post from the Texas County Sheriffs Department. Authorities later found their vehicle abandoned on the side of the road near the Kansas-Oklahoma border, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations (OSBI).

Five people have been charged in connection with their deaths: Paul Grice, 31; Tad Bert Cullum, 43; Tifany Machel Adams, 54; Cole Earl Twombly, 50; and Cora Twombly, 44, according to OSBI.

Cullum had been renting the cow pasture where officials said Butler and Kelley were found, the Associated Press reported, citing court documents.

Cullums attorney did not immediately respond to McClatchy News request for comment. Attorney information for the four other defendants was not listed. The Associated Press reported a gag order says attorneys are not allowed to comment publicly about the case.

The affidavit said the five suspects were reportedly part of an anti-government religious group known as Gods Misfits, according to the Associated Press.

According to court records, Butler had been involved since 2019 in a problematic custody dispute with Adams over Butlers children, NBC News reported. Adams is the childrens grandmother, according to court documents obtained by the news outlet.

Butler had requested an extended visitation of her children, and a hearing was set for April 17, according to USA Today.

Before that time, Butler was supposed to arrive at a birthday party with her children, the news outlet reported. However, she never appeared at the party, according to USA Today.

Officials said three prepaid cellphones, purchased by Adams were found to have been in the area near where Butlers car was found after she went missing, according to NBC News.

The evidence that was discovered inside of that abandoned vehicle and around it were able to help our investigators determine that there was foul play involved, OSBI spokesperson Hunter McKee said, as reported by The Wichita Eagle.

Updated: Fifth person arrested in connection with killing of two Kansas women in Oklahoma

Oklahoma authorities recover 2 bodies a day after arresting 4 in missing Kansas women case

Preachers wife and her friend vanish as their vehicle is found abandoned, OK cops say
Michel Nisenbaum, 59, Hanan Yablonka, 42, and Shani Louk's boyfriend Oryon Hernandez Radoux, 30, were killed by Hamas on Oct 7 - AP

Israeli troops have retrieved the bodies of three hostages kidnapped by Hamas, including the boyfriend of German-Israeli Shani Louk.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Friday that the troops had managed to recover the bodies of Michel Nisenbaum, 59, Hanan Yablonka, 42, and Orion Hernandez Radoux, 30, from Gaza.

They were captured by Hamas militants during the Oct 7 attack on a rave festival in southern Israel near the Gaza border.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday offered his condolences to the family of Radoux, who is a dual French-Mexican national, saying France is more than ever committed to the release of all hostages.

Radoux was dating Shani Louk, one of the best-known victims of the massacre whose dead, half-naked body was seen being hauled away by the attackers into Gaza.

Louks remains were recovered from the same area in northern Gaza just last week. Her parents buried her on Sunday.

Unlike Louk, the three other hostages were not previously identified as dead.

The IDF said the bodies were found in a joint operation with the security agency Shin Bet after information was obtained following the questioning of several Palestinians arrested in Gaza.

It was not immediately clear if the three men were killed at the party or later in an underground tunnel where their bodies were found.

Jabaliya, home to a historic Palestinian refugee camp, was the epicentre of fighting for weeks last year, parts of it utterly destroyed by Israeli bombardment.

Having withdrawn from the north months ago, the IDF returned to operate in Jabaliya earlier this month.

The IDF said earlier on Friday its troops in Jabaliya conducted targeted raids on terrorist infrastructure in the area, killing dozens of fighters, and destroying launch posts and underground shafts.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday offered his condolences to the families and pledged to bring back the others, both dead and the living.

We have a national and moral duty to do everything we can to return our hostages - the living and the deceased - and that is what we are doing, he said in a statement.

A group advocating for the hostages and their families on Friday referred to the operation as yet another reminder of the hostages plight.

The recovery of their bodies is a silent but resolute reminder that the State of Israel is obligated to immediately dispatch negotiation teams with a clear demand to bring about a deal that will swiftly return all the hostages home: the living for rehabilitation and the murdered for burial, the Hostages Families Forum said.

Talks on a possible hostage release in exchange for a ceasefire broke down in early May.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Azerbaijan, without postponing, implements its plans and goals for the transition to green energy, Ecologist Elman Zeynalzade told Trend.

According to him, the development of the renewable energy sphere through foreign investments has already become a reality.

One of the main issues we are facing today is to identify export markets on par with ensuring the integration of new production facilities to be established into the grid, Zeynalzade said.

He noted that transforming the territories liberated from occupation into a green energy zone is one of the main directions.

The fact that these territories have sufficient potential for renewable energy sources allows the development of this sphere. The regions of Karabakh and East Zangezur, as well as Nakhchivan, have been declared green energy zones in Azerbaijan. Karabakh and East Zangezur have an energy potential of 7,200 megawatts of solar and 2,000 megawatts of wind energy. These territories form about 25 percent of our country's internal water resources, i.e., 2 billion, 560 million cubic meters per year. In the liberated territories, the potential for solar energy is in the Fizuli, Jabrayil, and Zangilan districts. There is wind energy potential in the mountainous areas of Lachin and Kalbajar. The rivers in our liberated territories have great hydropower potential. These are such rivers as Hakari and Bargushad, Zeynalzade said.

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Body of St. Paul man missing since February found in Willamette River

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The body of a Marion County man who was reported missing in February has been located in the Willamette River.

According to the Oregon State Police, the body of Gurjinder Singh Grewal was recovered on Wednesday at 10:37 a.m. by a fisherman in the river between Oregon City and West Linn.

In a release, authorities said there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the recovery at this time.

Makes me sick: Detectives search for crime syndicate pickpocketing Costco shoppers

Grewels family was notified Wednesday evening by OSP.

The investigation is ongoing, officials said.

Grewel was last seen on February 8 walking on the Willamette River Bridge around 10 a.m. His car was later found on the south side of the bridge near Highway 219 between Newberg and St. Paul.

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WALNUT CREEK, Ohio (WJW)  A Holmes County nursing facility and retirement community was evacuated on Friday morning due to a bomb threat, according to the county sheriff.

Deputies responded just before 10 a.m. to the Walnut Hills facilities along Old Pump Street in Walnut Creek, according to a news release from Holmes County Sheriff Tim Zimmerly.

I-Team: Man shot but still goes to court  see video

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The threat came by phone, and was received by a facility worker, according to the release. The call specified a time and date for the detonation but did not say where the bomb was located.

Staff began evacuating both of the buildings before authorities arrived. They remained outside while deputies, firefighters and EMS workers searched the buildings.

Arrest made in theft of rare sports cards worth $2M

Staff members continued to care for the residents while outside. EMS workers examined two of them for minor medical complaints, reads the release. The residents later returned to their buildings.

The Holmes County Emergency Management Agency prepared alternate facilities and transportation, should residents need to be relocated, according to the release.

Holmes County sheriffs deputies are continuing to investigate.

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How will a potential Labour government affect your property portfolio? Get in touch: money@telegraph.co.uk

A key Conservative manifesto pledge to overhaul the rental sector will no longer go ahead in a boost for landlords.

The Rental Reform Bill will not be part of the wash-up process, which sees important legislation rushed through before Parliament is prorogued at the end of the day.

The bill, which had already been watered down after a backlash from landlord Tory MPs, had included a commitment to ban so-called no-fault evictions, known as Section 21.

In March, the government already confirmed that no-fault evictions would not be pushed through without a full review of the courts system after backlash from campaign groups and landlord MPs.

Landlords had warned that the legislation could leave them without access to their homes due to judicial system delays since the pandemic.

The bill was first introduced in the House of Commons in May 2023, but had been delayed as negotiations between tenancy campaigners and landlord groups took place.

Around 163,000 privately rented homes have disappeared from the market since it was announced in 2019, according to estate agents Hamptons.

Jeremy Leaf, estate agent and a former Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors residential chairman, said that the death of the bill in this Parliament would prolong the uncertainty for landlords.

The other point with all these bills which are being held is that the uncertainty is prolonged, and that uncertainty creates problems, Mr Leaf said.

Timothy Douglas, of industry body Propertymark, said: The legislation was introduced very late on and whilst attempting to please everyone, it failed to please anyone.

Many agents will be relieved that the current governments plans to meddle with fixed term tenancies and reforming eviction grounds with little realisation of the unintended consequences will no longer pass, but this is soon outweighed by a sense of uncertainty and apprehension as to what the next government will do.

Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, which represents buy-to-let homeowners, said: The news comes despite the fact that the Bill was in a state which would work for tenants and responsible landlords.

There has been too much dithering and delay in government, and a failure to be clear about how to ensure changes would work in practice.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced on Wednesday that an election would be held on July 4, with the final day of Parliament being May 30. But due to a planned recess, today is the final day Parliament will sit before the election  and the last chance for the Government to pass legislation.

The final list of bills to be voted on was negotiated on Thursday, as ministers rushed to ensure that their pet projects became law.

Ben Twomey, chief executive of campaign group Generation Rent, said the government has failed in its pledge: Abandoning the Renters Reform Bill as parliament dissolves means the government has failed in its promise to renters at the last election to deliver a fairer tenancy system, he said.

But another key 2019 manifesto commitment on leasehold will be debated in the House of Lords today, following intervention from Lord Bailey, who wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday: Lets get this done for the 5m households that need it.

The Conservatives promised in 2019 to stop the sale of new leasehold homes, to provide mechanisms for redress for tenants and to cap ground rent at a peppercorn.

But it is not yet clear whether a ground rent cap, a key aspect of the bill, will be included.

Michael Gove had been said to be considering a cap of 250 per year, but had been accused by investors of daylight robbery for potentially reducing their annual income.

A spokesman for the Leasehold Knowledge Partnership charity said that the genie could not be put back in the bottle.

The spokesman continued: There are too many MPs, there are too many leaseholders that know about the fundamental problems with the systems. The parties have made very clear that their intention is to get rid of leasehold.

Harry Scoffin, a campaigner on leasehold issues, said the bill being passed through the House of Lords would prove to be a relief for many leaseholders.

He said: The bill, many leaseholders felt it was suboptimal, but would have taken it, especially knowing that it was completely uncertain with Labour.

Matthew Pennycook MP, Labours Shadow Minister for Housing, said that if elected, his party would abolish Section 21 immediately.

He said: The Tories decision to cave in to vested interests and abandon their already weakened Renters Reform Bill leaves in tatters the promises they made to private tenants five years ago.

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Boy who died at 15 to become first millennial saint in Catholic Church: What did he do?

(NEXSTAR)  Carlos Acutis, a teenage boy who died after a battle with leukemia in 2006, is set to become the first millennial saint in the Catholic Church.

Acutis, who was 15 when he passed, was recognized by the office of the Holy See on Thursday for a second miracle  a threshold usually required by the Vatican before sainthood.

A tapestry featuring a portrait of Carlo Acutis is hang at the St. Francis Basilica during the beatification ceremony of Carlo Acutis, on October 10, 2020 in Assisi, Italy. The fifteen-year-old Carlo Acutis member of the Millennial generation who died on 12 October 2006 from M3 fulminant leukemia, is considered a "computer geek" on account of his passion and skill with computers and the internet. Acutis applied himself to creating a website dedicated to cataloguing each reported Eucharistic miracle in the world. (Photo by Vatican Pool/Getty Images)

Pope Francis will convene a Consistory of Cardinals to deliberate Acutis canonization, along with the canonization of three others, Vatican News reported.

Acutis, who was born in London in 1991 but lived in Italy, had operated a website to document Eucharistic miracles and visions of Mary from around the world, starting the project when he was 11. He was said to have a passion for the history of the church, and a thirst for knowledge that prompted his mother, who had only attended mass three times, to take theology classes to be able to discuss and answer Acutis questions, Vatican News reported.

He had also considered priesthood, his mother said, before becoming sick and dying after a battle with acute myeloid leukemia in 2016. After his body was laid to rest at a cathedral in Assisi, admirers frequently made pilgrimages to his tomb.

Acutiss first step on the journey toward sainthood occurred in 2018, when a decree authorized by Pope Francis declared him Venerable, according to the Catholic News Agency. Acustis became Blessed, or beautified, in 2020, after a woman in Brazil claimed that praying for Acutis intercession cured her son of a pancreatic issue, the National Catholic Register recounted.

The second miracle attributed to Acutis took place in 2022, according to the Vatican News. This time, a mother from Costa Rica made a pilgrimage to Acutis tomb in Assisi, praying for her daughters recovery after a brain injury, the outlet reported. The girls reported recovery, and Acutis alleged intercession, was recognized as his second miracle Thursday.

News of Acutis possible canonization comes just days after the Vatican reformed its process for evaluating certain religious visions. Specifically, the Vaticans new process makes it tougher for alleged events of supernatural origin to be authenticated, the office of the Holy See said.

The move, in part, was adopted to prevent instances of people attempting to fabricate such visions or apparitions in order to manipulate the faithful.

The new norms make clear that such an abuse of peoples faith can be punishable canonically, saying, The use of purported supernatural experiences or recognized mystical elements as a means of or a pretext for exerting control over people or carrying out abuses is to be considered of particular moral gravity.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Brace yourselves. These are the hurdles for air travelers this busy summer

If youre expecting to take to the skies this summer, you should also expect lots and lots and lots of companionship. And a few hurdles, too.

Memorial Day weekend, the traditional launching pad of the summer travel season, is shaping up to set a scorching pace. The Federal Aviation Administration has forecast the holiday to be its busiest in 14 years.

The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 18 million passengers and crew between Thursday and Wednesday  up more than 6% over last year. TSA says its prepared for its busiest summer ever.

American Airlines and United Airlines are both expecting about 10% more passengers over the holiday weekend than last year. United is expecting the biggest Memorial Day and summer travel season in the airlines 98-year history, according to Andrew Nocella, Uniteds executive vice president and chief commercial officer.

When it comes to navigating the flocks of fellow flyers, dont look for much of an ease-up after Memorial Day weekend.

US airlines are predicted to carry 271 million passengers around the world from June 1 to August 31, according to industry trade organization Airlines for America. Thats a 6.3% increase from last summer, and a new record for US airlines.

To meet the higher demand, Airlines for America said that US carriers will offer more than 26,000 scheduled flights a day  up nearly 1,400 a day from summer 2023.

While US airlines have staffed up and the TSA says its ready for the summer crush, an air traffic controller crunch, hot weather and crowded airports could bring flight disruptions and pain points.

Air traffic controller shortage

The air traffic control tower at Los Angeles International Airport is a busy place. The United States is still short thousands of air traffic control personnel. - Markus Mainka/imageBROKER/Shutterstock

Despite a surge in hiring last year, air traffic control stations nationwide are still about 3,000 controllers short, according to new FAA numbers.

The numbers show the challenge of filling the gap that led to flight delays and concerns that fatigue contributed to a series of near collisions on runways last year.

The current understaffing means controllers at many facilities are regularly working overtime to cover gaps. The shortage is a concern of airlines, controllers and watchdogs alike.

Scott Keyes, founder of travel site Going, said that because of the way air traffic control maps are divvied up, airports in New York City metro area and in Florida have a slightly higher chance of being affected by air traffic control issues.

I wouldnt, you know, not take that trip to New York or to Miami because of air traffic control, he said in an interview with CNN Travel. People flying in and out of those markets should try to get early morning flights and nonstop flights to help minimize problems if they come up.

I was flying to New York a couple days ago and my flight to New York got delayed by four hours, Keyes said. It was a pain in the butt  dont get me wrong. But that just meant I arrived in New York four hours later.

If I had had a connection in Chicago and my flight was delayed by four hours, I would have missed that connection. And then its a much more hairy situation.

Hot weather and hurricanes

A plane arrives at San Francisco International Airport during sunset on May 15. Much of the country is forecast to have higher-than-average temperatures this summer. That could affect flights depending on how hot it gets. - Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Much of the United States is looking at varying probabilities of having higher temperatures than the average for summer  especially in the Northeast and desert Southwest.

Extreme heat can do more than make you feel miserable. It also affects airlines abilities to carry out normal schedules, according to a report from EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University.

Hot air is thin air. While this reduces the lift on which planes rely for takeoff, the main impact is felt on engine thrust. Aircraft engines will produce less thrust during takeoff and ascent as a result, said Bob Thomas, assistant professor of aeronautical science. The only way to make a takeoff possible on shorter runways would be to lower the weight of the aircraft.

He said airlines generally reduce weight by removing baggage or passengers, especially as temperatures reach the triple digits. Cancellations are even possible. The report suggested trying to book early morning and late evening flights when you expect to fly in hot weather zones.

Experts also warn that as the effects of climate change increase, passengers can expect longer periods of turbulence during flights in coming years. Says one professor of atmospheric science: The seat belt sign will be switched on a lot more.

And if you havent heard, meteorologists warn were phasing out of an El Nino cycle in the equatorial Pacific (with warmer waters) and phasing into a La Nina period (with cooler waters). And La Nina can sometimes generate increased hurricane activity along the US Gulf and Atlantic coasts.

In fact, forecasters predict a hyperactive Atlantic hurricane season with eight to 13 hurricanes. They think four to seven of them could reach at least a strength of Category 3, which have sustained winds of 111 to 129 mph. (The hurricane scale goes up to Category 5, which has sustained winds of 157 mph or more.)

Bottom line, especially as summer progresses into peak hurricane season: Keep your eye on the forecasts if youre scheduled to fly.

Crowded airports

Travelers are seen ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport last year. Expect a sea of companionship at US airports this summer. - Elijah Nouvelage/AFP/Getty Images

Passengers will need to pay attention to their ground game this summer, said Keyes.

Heres how I put it: Airports are going to be extremely full. Airplanes are only gonna be pretty full.

Keyes said new plane deliveries and additional flights will ease the load factor. Theres about 10 to 15 percent more capacity this year than there was a year ago. And  more seats mean theres going to be more elbow room for folks this summer even during the busy travel season.

That wont help in the crowded airports, though. He has a couple of tips to mitigate that.

First, get TSA PreCheck and/or Fast Track so you can at least bypass possible security line bottlenecks.

Secondly, Keyes says he likes to find a quieter, more restful pocket of the airport away from his gate in which to hang out before his flight. He downloads the airlines mobile app, which notifies him just before boarding is about to start.

Silver lining for flyers

Behold the Roman Empire! Have you been wanting to see the Colosseum and other sites in Italy's ancient capital of Rome? Flights there and to other points in Europe might cost you less this summer. - Antonio Masiello/Getty Images

For those flyers who must carefully consider every dollar they spend, they could find the summer of 2024 to be a less expensive one than last year.

Travel site Kayak reports that summer fares should be lower.

For US domestic flyers, fares should drop an average of 13% compared with 2023. Mexico is seeing an even bigger drop with fares averaging 16% less. And if Australia is a dream trip of yours, those fares are falling an average of 14% (though the average price is $1,509, Kayak says).

For people scared off from Europe last summer by the crowds and high prices, Keyes had some good news.

I think a lot of that pent-up demand [from the pandemic] has been exhausted. I think youre going to see higher supply, lower demand and cheaper fares to Europe this summer as a result.

Kayak is showing a 7% dip in Europe fares compared with last summer.

While hardly typical, Keyes said hes recently spotted some round-trip mega-bargains that were almost nonexistent last summer: Paris for $570, Iceland for $475 and Dublin for $457.

CNNs Senior Climate and Weather Editor Angela Fritz contributed to this report.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Some San Diegans may have stumbled across a recent viral video on Instagram apparently depicting bright blue jellyfish swarming in shallow waters described as near the citys coast.

The video, which was posted by the account @socalbucketlistaddicts earlier this month, showed hundreds of Catostylus mosaicus, or blue blubber jellyfish, swimming in calm waters. The video included a locator that claimed it was captured in the Mission Bay area.

The video on its face appeared to mark an incredibly rare instance of a non-native species of jellyfish blooming in the region, but experts say San Diegans should not pay it any heed: To date, there has not been any record of the blue blubber jellyfish in the regions waters.

Birch Aquarium to host shark activities this summer

As jellyfish expert Linsey Sala with Scripps Institution of Oceanography explained, the blue blubber jellyfish is a species that is mostly known for residing in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, particularly those around Australia and the Philippines.

According to the biodiversity data website iNaturalist, the blue blubber jellyfish is considered the most common type of medusae that can be found along the eastern coastline of Australia.

The species particularly favors estuaries, semi-enclosed lagoons and shallow bays of this region due to their often higher salinity, iNaturalist added. Higher salinity helps support their feeding and better control their osmoregulation, or the regulation of their bodys water content.

A nearly identical video of a bloom of blue blubber jellyfish, which was posted to TikTok two weeks prior to the one showing the jellyfish with a San Diego locator, appeared to trace back to shallow waters in the Indo-Pacific region.

FOX 5/KUSI reached out to the Instagram account for more details on where the video came from, but its owner did not respond to the inquiry.

How warm will it be on Memorial Day in San Diego County?

But thats not to say San Diego does not have its fair share of invertebrates in the regions coastal waters.

Frequent beachgoers may have stumbled upon the jelly-like Velella velellas, or By-the-wind Sailor, that have washed up on the regions shores in recent weeks. San Diego is also known to have a population of Aurelia labiata, or Greater Moon Jelly, according to iNaturalist.

Velella velellas as spotted in Imperial Beach on Apr. 27, 2024.

Moon jellyfish were spotted near Coronado Kays in June 2023. (Photo: Vishwas Lokesh)

San Diegos naturalists have also observed the tiny Phylum Ctenophora, or comb jellies, near the regions waters. Comb jellies, which are closely related to sea jellies, are incredibly common and can be found inhabiting waters worldwide.

Most of these species seen in our waters are not dangerous to humans, even though they still might sting. Experts say the greater moon jellyfishs sting, for instance, is only slightly venomous for humans, producing prickly sensations or mild burning in the worst cases.

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Jennifer Barnhill is a columnist for Military.com writing about military families.

There is an unspoken promise America has whispered to service members and their families for centuries: If something happens to you, we will take care of your family.

And in many ways, as individuals, we honor this promise. Military spouses line up meal trains and show up to sit with families in grief. Commands go above and beyond to remember the fallen and to embrace their families. Service members pull all-nighters driving in their dress blues to deliver the worst possible news to unmarried partners because the military doesn't have a process to notify anyone other than the next of kin. We do our best to honor this promise, and we hope that others would do the same for us.

Because we don't often talk about this promise, we don't have to face up to the fact that, as a nation, we have not kept it well. Instead of living up to President Abraham Lincoln's promise to "care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan," we have left the widows, widowers and orphans to battle bureaucracy alone.

"I just remember talking to him on that Friday. ... I could just hear the smile in his voice. He was happy. He was doing what he wanted to do. And then on Sunday is when they knocked on my door and told me that he was gone," said Marcie Robertson, whose husband was killed in combat while deployed to Afghanistan in 2013.

Robertson had met her husband, Army Sgt. 1st Class Forrest Robertson, when they were in preschool. They dated throughout high school and got married a few days after 9/11 at a DMV temporarily housed in a JCPenney department store. Their military marriage was tested by the birth of children and countless wartime deployments.

"We were always gonna get married and have a renewal of vows or something when he retired, just to have a wedding. But we never did do that," she said. Instead, Robertson has spent the past 10 years trying to keep her family whole, something she says the military has made even more difficult.

"November of 2013, I lost my husband. In February of '14, right before Valentine's Day, I got my first letter asking me to verify that I had not remarried," said Robertson. This letter would be an annual reminder to Robertson -- and to all survivors who receive death benefits -- that if she wanted to remarry, her happiness would cost her.

According to current law, if a Gold Star or surviving spouse remarries before the age of 55, they will lose their survivor's benefits, including the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) payments, Tricare health coverage, access to VA home loans and much more, amounting to roughly $4,000 in payments per month, plus benefits.

This policy was drafted at a time when women did not work outside the home. Daughters were taken care of by fathers and wives by their husbands. They could not hold credit cards or take out a loan without a male sponsor. If a widow decided to remarry, the new husband would assume the responsibility to provide for them, making death benefits seemingly unnecessary.

However, this gendered policy no longer aligns with societal norms, even within the military community.

When a military spouse says I do, they are signing away roughly $200,000 in lost income over a 20-year military marriage, according to a 2018 White House report. But the costs are often far greater. The $200,000 figure is just the average loss and does not account for opportunity costs -- what that money would make if invested. It also doesn't account for lost retirement savings and vesting opportunities or periods of unemployment.

"Surviving spouses are military spouses first," said Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann, deputy director for government and legislative affairs for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Haycock-Lohmann has been advocating for surviving families for decades. In addition to her role at TAPS, she is also the Gold Star daughter of Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Haycock, who died while training to deploy in 2002, and Air Force veteran Nichole Haycock, who died by suicide in 2011.

"They'll never make up for that lost income," she said.

When the unimaginable happens, surviving spouses instantly go from unemployed or a secondary breadwinner to the only income. They suffer tragedy and scramble to find themselves within their new circumstances.

"I don't get remarried because I would be penalized financially," said Theresa Jones, a Gold Star Navy spouse. Jones' husband, Lt. Cmdr. Landon Jones, died in September 2013 after ocean waves hit his helicopter blades, causing the aircraft to break apart and fall from a flight deck into the Red Sea. Jones found out that her husband was presumed dead while she was scrolling Facebook.

Since receiving that notification, Jones has recounted the story of her husband's death countless times. She has told reporters that her then two-month-old son never met his father; how something called the widow's tax prevented her from accessing earned survivor benefits for years before she and other survivors fought for its repeal; and how a Trump administration tax policy cost their family thousands of dollars (survivors and advocates fixed this, too). And today, she is still talking about how the military is failing to live up to its promise to take care of survivors.

"It doesn't take away the fact that he died," she said. "That didn't go away. It still happened. It's a very antiquated way of thinking."

Today, Robertson and her fiance Nelson live in fear that someone will report them, and she will lose her benefits. Although they are not married, the Department of Veterans Affairs can investigate if it believes that a survivor is "holding themselves out" to be married. According to current law, if a surviving spouse purports to be married, introducing themselves as a married couple to others, but isn't married on paper, they could still lose their benefits.

Because the average age of a surviving spouse is 25 years and 30 years from the age of 55, it is likely that many are holding themselves out to be married. It is estimated that only 5% of surviving spouses under the age of 55 officially remarry because of the financial losses. However, for many, remarriage provides support that goes beyond finances. They are looking to find the emotional stability that the loss of a loved one takes away.

"My kids deserve that security," said Robertson. "My kids deserve a father figure. My husband told me to get them one." Robertson and others are willing to wait to get married and have to weigh the loss of finances against knowing that they do not have the legal right to be there for their partner or their partner's children in an emergency.

"I think to myself, what if she chose not to remarry this remarkable man [or bring] me into this remarkable family just because she was worried that her benefits would run out? I think about how many kids and families have been sacrificed maybe just because of this very stupid, fixable mistake," said Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., in an April interview.

Phillips is a Gold Star child. Like many surviving children, he never knew his father, who was killed during the Vietnam War. Despite losing her benefits, his mother and stepfather were able to provide a loving and stable household. But in meeting other surviving families, he learned that his situation was unique.

"It shouldn't just take a stroke of good luck for somebody for a Gold Star child to end up with the opportunities that I had," Phillips said. He first introduced the Love Lives On Act in 2022 to help future surviving families.

The legislation was originally introduced in the Senate by Sens. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., and Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., and has received support across the aisle. It would allow survivors to retain certain benefits upon remarriage, regardless of age.

There are two sections of this bill that carry the bulk of the cost: One is paid by the VA (DIC) and the other is paid out by the Defense Department (SBP). SBP is an insurance-like system that allows military spouses to collect an annuity equivalent to 55% of the member's retired pay.

According to written testimony submitted by VA officials to Congress, the department says it would need to budget $327.7 million over 10 years to pay for the most costly portion of the proposal, a figure that is significantly lower than the Congressional Budget Office's estimate, which is closer to $2 billion.

But advocates believe the law may actually save the government time and money.

"We think there should be cost savings taken into account," said Haycock-Lohmann. "One of the things we are not pursuing is Tricare and health insurance."

TAPS anticipates that, if the legislation passes, roughly 20% of surviving spouses would remarry and give up their VA-funded health insurance. This marriage "boom" would not likely have a big financial impact on government coffers. Because only 5% of spouses under 55 are remarried, the government is already paying nearly all surviving spouses.

"Why would a country that so deeply values that service, why would an American culture that so deeply values family, why would we penalize someone for remarrying?" said Phillips.

"Had I been divorced, and had these benefits in my [divorce] decree when he died, I could remarry at any point," said Robertson. According to the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA), if a military spouse is awarded retirement pay during a divorce decree, they can retain that asset upon remarriage. Widows and widowers are not as fortunate.

It seems like a no-brainer. In addition to honoring the promise we made to service members, the proposed legislation would remove the administrative burden from the VA and families by no longer requiring survivors to verify each year that they have not remarried.

Although the VA publicly supports the bill, the decision is not just up to it.

Survivor benefits are not a handout. They offset the lost income and earning potential of both the deceased service member and spouse who put their life and career on hold to support their loved one's service. Service members are recruited by the DoD to serve with this promise lingering in the air.

To cut off this repayment at the arbitrary age of 55 is not only archaic, it is a failure to honor the promise made to service members that, if they die, the nation they fought and died for will take care of their families.

"It's very hard for me to somehow reconcile voting [to send foreign aid to Ukraine, Taiwan and Israel] and then somehow not [have] the resources to take care of families that have made the ultimate sacrifice," said Phillips. "I'm not someone who takes very kindly to this notion that we just don't have the money. Because we do. It's about how we choose to share it."

It is easy to forget about the promise our country has made to Gold Star families if you aren't one. This is why we need to tell Marcie Robertson's story and Theresa Jones' and Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann and Dean Phillips'. They are survivors who are doing the work. It's time we honored our promise.

"He paid for it with his life. I believe he was willing to go into combat and risk his life because he knew that we would be taken care of," said Robertson. "I don't think he would have done those things if he thought that we would be left high and dry."
An emergency closure was issued Thursday on a Brunswick daycare after a one-year-old choked to death.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

The Glynn County Police Department is investigating the death of one-year-old Jamal Bryant Jr. Police said Jamal choked on a watermelon Tuesday afternoon at the Kids Nest Learning Center on 419 Benedict Road.

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Thursday, The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning ordered the center to close. Its investigation found the child was given large pieces of watermelon while walking around.

Investigators said the child was not properly supervised.

Three staff members could be seen talking to each other away from the children in a surveillance video. The child approached the staff and appeared to be in distress. The staff then rendered aid, according to the report.

Action News Jax dug through inspection reports for the daycare.

Several complaints were sent to the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning dating back to 2022. They range from allegations of abuse, improper child supervision, and improper staffing.

The last inspection was done in April.

The facility was also threatened with fines three times for repeat violations. The daycare has 48 hours to appeal the decision to shut it down.

We reached out to the parents of Jamal Bryant Jr., but the family hasnt returned our calls at this time. Action News Jax tried to call the daycare but has not been able to reach anyone.

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ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, May 24. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) supports both Turkmenistan and its other participating countries in the transition to sustainable energy through cooperation at the regional and country levels, a source in the IRENA told Trend.

"In Central Asia, our activities are guided by the Astana Communique on Accelerating the Uptake of Renewables, which was adopted by a conference of energy ministers in 2017 in Kazakhstan. The Communique outlines the key action areas for collaboration with IRENA," the source said.

Furthermore, a source in the agency noted that, in consultation with the governments of the countries of the region, a regional action plan was developed, including priorities for implementation in coordination with a wide range of national, regional and international partners, while adding that there are a number of areas of cooperation in which IRENA supports both Turkmenistan and all its members.

"Based on IRENAs guidelines on the design of renewable energy targets, IRENA supports the development and building of capacities through dedicated workshops and trainings. We evaluate current resources as well," the source added.

It was emphasized that the agency's analysis takes into account a number of variables, such as land use and land cover preference, distance to the nearest load center, number of people per square kilometer, levelized cost of electricity, as well as the capacity value of wind and solar resources and much more.

Meanwhile, IRENA is a lead global intergovernmental agency for energy transformation that serves as the principal platform for international cooperation, supports countries in their energy transitions, and provides state of the art data and analyses on technology, innovation, policy, finance and investment.

IRENA drives the widespread adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy, including bioenergy, geothermal, hydropower, ocean, solar and wind energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, and energy security, for economic and social resilience and prosperity and a climate-proof future.
Bryan Hagerich, father arrested for bringing ammunition to Turks and Caicos, returns to US after paying fine

American Bryan Hagerich was spared a lengthy prison sentence under Turks and Caicos' strict gun laws and returned to the U.S. after paying a fine. The father of two was caught with ammunition in his baggage earlier this year.

A judge sentenced Hagerich on Friday to a suspended 52-week sentence with a fine of $6,700. Upon paying his fine, he was given his passport and returned to the United States without serving the sentence.

"The weight of the world has been lifted off my shoulders," Bryan Hagerich said to reporters at Pittsburgh International Airport this evening after reuniting with family.

"I'm so thankful to be home here with my family and friends but we still have three other Americans in Turks and Caicos," Hagerich said.

"It was tough, the darkest days of my life," Hagerich said. "You think you're on this beautiful island but there's nothing beautiful about it when you don't have your family."

When asked if he would visit Turks and Caicos again, he said, "I think we'll be looking for somewhere else."

Hagerich had faced a possible 12-year sentence, the country's minimum for possessing guns or ammunition, under a strict law in place aimed at addressing rising crime and gang violence. However, the judge found exceptional circumstances and that the mandatory minimum of 12 years was unjust and disproportionate to the crime committed.

PHOTO: Bryan Hagerich with his wife Ashley, arrives at court in Turks and Caicos for sentencing. (ABC News)

After paying the fine, Hagerich told reporters he was "absolutely elated" to be returning home to his children.

MORE: What to know about Turks and Caicos' strict gun laws after US tourists charged with possessing ammunition

The Pennsylvania father of two was arrested in February while returning home from a family vacation after ammunition was found in his checked luggage. He pleaded guilty to possession of 20 rounds of ammunition.

He told ABC News he forgot hunting ammunition was in his bag while he was traveling.

"I'm a man of integrity, character," he told ABC News in an interview alongside his wife Ashley earlier this month. "I did not have intent in this."

PHOTO: Bryan Hagerich and his wife, Ashley, speak with ABC News. (ABC News)

Following the sentencing, Turks and Caicos Islands' premier said that "justice has been served as the law intended."

"As we have said, the Firearms Act includes consideration for exceptional circumstances and todays decision reflects our commitment to judicial independence along with upholding the law," Premier C. Washington Misick said in a statement. "Residents and visitors can be confident that the Turks and Caicos Islands are dedicated to safety and compassion as we protect the safety and rights of all."

Four other American tourists have been charged with possessing ammunition, three of whom remain released on bail on Turks and Caicos. Two of them are awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty, including one who was able to return to the U.S. due to medical reasons.

Hagerich said they have "set some precedent" with his sentencing.

"My work, our work, is not done until all of them get home," he said.

Bryan Hagerich, father arrested for bringing ammunition to Turks and Caicos, returns to US after paying fine originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Idaho murder suspect Bryan Kohberger appeared in a Latah County courtroom as part of his defense teams efforts to compel prosecutors to reveal more of the evidence they plan to use in his upcoming trial.

The 29-year-old criminology PhD student is awaiting trial for the stabbing deaths of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, who were killed on November 13, 2022, at their off-campus house in Moscow.

Mr Kohbergers defense team has claimed he was driving around looking at stars at the time of the murders and argue prosecutors have not handed all the evidence over for the defense to review, filing multiple motions to compel since Mr Kohbergers arrest in late 2022.

As Mr Kohberger looked on in silence, his public defender Anne Taylor grilled Moscow Police Detective Lawrence Mowery about a series of records related to cell phone data police plan to use in the case.

Ms Taylor said her team had only learned about the records. which captures police work from 2023 analyzing the phone data, this Wednesday.

The 2022 killing of Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves shook the college town of Moscow, Idaho. (AP/Monroe County Correctional Facility/Handout)

Those were things that existed for quite some time, is that correct? she asked, later adding, I want to know all the records you relied on, all of the emails, all the conversations you relied on to produce this thing.

During his testimony, Detective Lawrence Mowery pushed back against the suggestion police were hiding something.

He described how the records merely show he was called upon in the spring of 2023 to analyze phone records using a data visualization program called CASTViz, information that was later presented to a grand jury.

The detective said that even though he didnt save his work, the analysis could be quickly recreated.

I didnt delete anything, he said, adding, I can open the software, drag the CDRs [call detail records] back in, and in a very short time its generated.

A worker rakes debris during a pause in the use of heavy equipment to demolish the house where four University of Idaho students were killed in 2022 on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho (AP)

The hearing also concerned police efforts to look for evidence on Idaho transit cameras and windy.com, a weather site that temporarily displays shots from state transit feeds. The detective said that while police consulted these feeds as potential sources of evidence, they didnt retain anything of value in the case.

Thursdays hearing ended without a ruling on the motion to compel, and further proceedings are scheduled for 30 May, which will feature testimony from Leah Larkin and Bicka Barlow, two DNA experts called by the defense.

The wider evidence at issue in the case reportedly includes dashcam footage, video and audio recordings of a white sedan at the crime scene, and lab testing results  information police used to arrest Kohberger seven weeks after the murders.

Kohbergers attorney said at a hearing earlier this month that the prosecutors are withholding evidence that the defense team should be privy to.

The state knows full well what they have and what theyre withholding from us, Ms Taylor said at the hearing. We dont know what theyre going to show, but we know they exist.

Bryan Kohbergers defense team is arguing prosecutors are witholding evidence, which they deny (Getty)

The prosecution has argued its doing all it can to share evidence but is partially being delayed by federal rules, given the FBIs involvement in the underlying investigation.

The characterization that were just consciously withholding information to frustrate the defense is utter nonsense, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said at a hearing earlier this month.

They [the FBI] have been good partners, but they have their own rules to work with, he added.

Kohberger was linked to the murders that rocked the college town of Moscow through DNA evidence, cell phone data, an eyewitness account and his white Hyundai Elantra.

But his team claims their client was out driving in the early morning hours of the night of the murders, and that he was in Pullman, which is about eight miles west of the 1122 King Road home.

Mr Kohberger was out driving in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022; as he often did to hike and run and/or see the moon and stars, Ms Taylor, the defense attorney, wrote in the court documents. He drove throughout the area south of Pullman, Washington, west of Moscow, Idaho including Wawawai Park.

Prosecutors are likely to use cell phone data to argue Bryan Kohberger is responsible for the 2022 murders at an off-campus house (Getty Images)

In May 2023, Kohberger declined to enter a plea in the case, prompting the judge to enter his plea as not guilty.

Earlier this year, the Idaho Supreme Court denied a request from Kohberger for his grand jury indictment to be thrown out, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct. But the Judge denied the motion.

Prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

A trial date has not yet been set.
Buckle up in Pennsylvania while traveling during Memorial Day Weekend

Drivers may be in a rush to get to their holiday destination during the extended Memorial Day weekend, but the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is urging drivers to put safety first by enforcing national seatbelt and safe driving regulations.

PennDOT's mobilization is in effect now through June 2, and here's what it means for Bucks County drivers.

PennDOT, Pennsylvania State Police team for 'Click It or Ticket' enforcement

The "Click it or Ticket" campaign is designed to raise seatbelt awareness, especially during Memorial Day weekend, and the Pennsylvania State Police will be on heightened alert for drivers not wearing a seatbelt.

While every passenger inside a vehicle must be wearing a seatbelt, PennDOT further explained the law and enforcement agenda in a press release.

The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the "Click it or Ticket" campaign through Memorial Day Weekend to late spring.

"Pennsylvania law requires drivers, front-seat passengers, and any occupant younger than 18 to buckle up when riding in a vehicle," read a portion of PennDOT's Click it or Ticket press release. "Children under age 4 must be properly secured in an approved child safety seat. Children under age 2 must ride in a rear-facing car seat until they outgrow the maximum weight and height limits designated by the seat manufacturer.

"Booster seats are required for children ages 4 to 8."

How much is the ticket in Pennsylvania for not wearing a seatbelt?

Tickets for not wearing a seatbelt range up to $75, according to the Pennsylvania Code; but the campaign is less about the fees and more about educating and saving drivers and passengers, PennDOT officials said.

"'Click it or Ticket' isn't about citations, it's about saving lives," said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. Wearing a seat belt increases your chances of surviving a crash by up to 60 percent. Through continued enforcement and education, we hope to see more people buckling up and fewer fatal crashes on Pennsylvania's roads."

County urges teen drivers to buckle up: Bucks County teens urging peers to buckle up, drive safe in video PSA challenge

PennDOT provided some harrowing stats that backed up the agency's call for more awareness. PennDOT also has a seatbelt law website that provides more detailed information.

Memorial Day Weekend in Bucks County: Memorial Day 2024 in Bucks County: Where to catch parades and ceremonies

"In 2023, there were 11,756 crashes in Pennsylvania where at least one occupant was not wearing a seat belt, resulting in 316 fatalities. It is estimated that 92% of unbelted occupants, or 282 people, who were killed in crashes while traveling in passenger vehicles, including cars, small trucks, vans, and SUVs, could have survived if they had been buckled up," read a portion of PennDOT's release. "During the four-day Memorial Day weekend in 2023, PSP troopers investigated 651 crashes that resulted in four fatalities and 142 injuries.

"State Police also cited 1,318 individuals for not wearing seat belts and issued 224 tickets for not securing children in safety seats."

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: PennDOT to enhance seatbelt awareness Memorial Day Weekend
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Buffalo man pleaded guilty to charges of narcotics conspiracy, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and concealment of material fact, the United States Attorneys Office announced.

Officials said 40-year-old Joseph Zaso, the leader of the drug trafficking, conspired with other dealers to sell significant quantities of heroin and fentanyl in the Jamestown area between 2018 and 2022.

Zaso possessed firearms at the time to protect his supply of narcotics. On May 26, 2022, search warrants resulted in the seizure of drug paraphernalia from his Buffalo residence.

He was on probation in Western New York during this time following a 2015 conviction in Michigan. Officials said Zaso falsely reported his employment and concealed his income while on probation.

The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.

Zasos sentencing is scheduled for Sep. 30.

Latest Local News

Katie Skoog joined the News 4 team in April 2024. She is a graduate from the University at Buffalo. You can view more of her work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
DENVER (KDVR)  The FBI and Denver police need help identifying a man who allegedly robbed four banks in May alone.

Investigators have dubbed the suspect the BYOB Bandit because he brings a different bag to each robbery.

Reward offered in University of Denver vandalism case

The timeline of the alleged robberies is as follows:

Wednesday, May 1  At 3:10 p.m. at the Chase Bank located at 6160 E. Colfax Ave.

Wednesday, May 8  At 3:50 p.m. at the UMB Bank located at 3515 N. Quebec St.

Friday, May 17  At 3:40 p.m. at the Chase Bank located at 6160 E. Colfax Ave.

Wednesday, May 22  At 12:40 p.m. at the UMB Bank located at 1635 E. Colfax Ave.

The suspect is described as:

Black male

Between 5 feet, 9 inches and 6 feet tall

Medium build

40-55 years old

Has a gray beard/facial hair

The BYOB Bandit is wanted in connection to four bank robberies in Denver in May. (FBI)

The BYOB Bandit is wanted in connection to four bank robberies in Denver in May. (FBI)

The BYOB Bandit is wanted in connection to four bank robberies in Denver in May. (FBI)

The BYOB Bandit is wanted in connection to four bank robberies in Denver in May. (FBI)

The BYOB Bandit is wanted in connection to four bank robberies in Denver in May. (FBI)

Law enforcement is asking the public to look out for anyone matching these descriptors and to be aware of anyone who might have recently changed their spending habits or quickly came into money.

Medina Alert: Driver of Kia Sedona wanted in hit-and-run crash in Central Park

According to the FBI, bank robbery convictions are punishable by up to 20 years in prison for each offense.

Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or the tips website. Tipsters can also remain anonymous and report to the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867. A $2,000 award is being offered for information that leads to a conviction.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Several California big city mayors urged Gov. Gavin Newsom and lawmakers this week to continue state funding to combat homelessness, money that they said has been a lifesaver for thousands of people on the streets of the Golden State.

For five years the Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention program (HHAP) has funneled about $4 million to counties, cities and continuum of care organizations in the state to make a dent into its burgeoning homeless population.

In his May budget revision, Newsom proposed trimming $260 million in supplemental funding from HHAP to help balance next years budget withan estimated $45 billion deficit.

While $1 billion from HHAP is still in an ongoing round of funding  but whether the grant will continue next year is far from certain.

Earlier this month, Newsom announced he would speed up the release of $3 billion to build or refurbish mental health treatment centers from the voter-approved Prop. 1, a measure that will pump nearly $6.4 billion to target those who are in crisis or experiencing chronic homelessness and for veteran housing.

Prop. 1 reconfigures the California Mental Health Services Act to redirect the majority of its funding from the counties to the state for building the facilities and housing for the chronically homeless.

The mayors said HHAP and Prop. 1 are complimentary.

We do need both, said Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. We need HHAP to support our ongoing efforts and we also need Prop. 1.

In a news conference Wednesday that came on the heels of a letter the California Big City Mayors coalition sent earlier this week to leaders of the state senate and assembly, as well as the chairs of both budget committees, several municipal leaders spoke to the need to continue to maintain state funding.

We cannot abandon this progress now ... Without HHAP the progress that we were making will vanish, said Mayor Todd Gloria, chair of the coalition, citing multiple negative impacts that would follow such as shuttering of shelters and many homeless returning to the streets. In short, it will be a disaster.

To our state leaders, we say this is not the time to take our foot off the gas, Gloria continued. Now is not the time to reverse the progress that we have made.

Budgets, he said, are a reflection of the values and priorities and even as San Diego is facing a $170 million deficit Gloria is proposing to increase the funding for homeless services, planning to add another 1,000 shelter beds and 200 safe parking spaces in the city.

Lawmakers at the Capitol, meanwhile, are pushing hard to find ways to restore major homelessness and housing program cuts.

If not now, then when?

The mayors also shared stories of people the homelessness money has helped in their towns.

Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson spoke about a 66-year-old man who was homeless for 21 years and struggled for years recovering from substance abuse.

After many efforts to engage him, the citys outreach team has finally secured housing for him and his two emotional support animals, something, she said, would not have been possible without HHAP funding.

If we lose HHAP funding, she added, well lose people like (him).

In Riverside, for every person housed, six more become homeless, the mayor said. We need every tool in our toolbelt to continue this work.

Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh said cities have the bulk of the responsibility to triage the homelessness crisis in the state.

Our residents trumpet this crisis daily and the streets of California cry out with the pain of thousands, she said. Lean budget years require difficult decisions. Addressing homelessness, our states number one issue must be a priority. If not now. Then when?

San Francisco Mayor London Breed said she doesnt want her city to retreat on homelessness.

We still have a lot of work to do. Our street homelessness has reached a 10 year low but our family homelessness has increased, Breed said. We have made progress and without HHAP funding, we risk slipping backwards, losing all the progress weve made and the momentum we have built.

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg enumerated some myths and facts, imploring lawmakers and the Newsom administration to find a path to ensure this immensely successful investment in California cities can continue to make the progress that were beginning to see in all of our cities.

Because of potential cuts in state funding, the Sacramento City Council might be faced with deciding whether to close shelters next year.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan noted that last year his city measured a 10.7% decrease in the number of unhoused people.

Like so many other cities, San Jose is finally turning the corner on unsheltered homelessness and were seeing it in the data, he said.

Administration seeks more accountability

Gov. Newsom has called for accountability and results for the money doled out by the state. The message from the mayors Wednesday was that they are ready.

We welcome the accountability necessary to get this job done, said Mayor Dawson, adding that Riverside has implemented a dashboard to monitor progress on homelessness.

Mayor Steinberg said that in collaboration with the Newsom administration, the 13th largest cities have obtained state approval for plans to set aggressive accountability goals.

Specifically, he added, we are committed to reducing unsheltered homelessness by 16% by 2025.

While deficit reduction is imperative, we implore the Legislature and the administration to find a way to fund (the sixth round of HHAP) so that this immensely successful investment in California cities can continue to make the progress that were beginning to see in all of our cities, Steinberg said.

Added Mayor Gloria: Weve heard our governor loud and clear. These are precious public resources and the public deserves to know what theyre getting for their limited dollars  we will happily be held to account for how these funds are spent. But our message today is do not retreat. 

Counties welcome investments

Graham Knaus, CEO of the California State Association of Counties, called the HHAP grants the most effective program to address homelessness in California.

And, zero dollars means zero progress, he said, adding the association understands the broad framework of what the governor has proposed and that tough choices have to be made.

I think it is important to recognize that California is a leader in so many spaces that this is an area where theres both more done and more at risk in terms of impact to communities, said Knaus, who made a plea for HHAP continued funding before the Senate Budget Committee in April.

The investments have been welcome and critically needed and they must continue or were simply throwing out the progress weve made in the last few years, he said.

More than 181,000 Californians experienced homelessness on a given night in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Karina Gonzalez with the League of California Cities, pointed out that Californias largest cities receive direct HHAP funding and the allocations are based on cities point-in-time counts. Mid and smaller sized cities can also get the money through their counties or continuum of care, she said.
California could bar landlords from banning pets at some buildings. Which renters are affected?

Landlords at medium and large rental properties could no longer ban pets without a good reason under legislation that moved through the Assembly this week.

The bill was originally aimed at helping most tenants with pets.

But powerful housing interests got some big changes made.

The housing groups pushed Assemblyman Matt Haney, D-San Francisco, the bills author, to change Assembly Bill 2216 to limit the types of units the policy would affect and to allow property owners to charge extra deposits and pet rent.

Tenants currently have little recourse when landlords choose to ban pets entirely, for any reason at all, or charge significant amounts of money for pet rent. Haney also said some tenants with pets have a hard time getting landlords to consider their applications for units.

Haney chairs the Legislatures five-member Renters Caucus that includes four Assembly members and one senator. The tiny size of the caucus shows the power of the California Apartment Association and similar interest groups in a governing body mostly composed of homeowners.

Although tenants rights advocacy organizations push for renter-oriented legislation, they do not have the same clout and lobbying strength.

The Apartment Association spent more than $391,000 lobbying on bills and policy, including AB 2216, from Jan. 1 through March 31, according to Secretary of States Office disclosures.

Haneys original bill would have barred all landlords from banning common household pets  such as dogs and cats  without reasonable justification. It also would have prevented them from collecting additional fees related to tenants pets.

The amended version of AB 2216 would apply only to properties with 16 or more rentals  properties with 15 or fewer units would be exempt. Landlords could charge a pet deposit of up to half a months rent, not exceeding $1,000. The deposit could only be used to cover pet-related damages.

Landlords could not charge an additional monthly fee, or pet rent, for the first animal. But they could collect pet rent for additional animals, capped at $50 per animal, per month. Tenants do not need to disclose they have pets when applying for rentals, only before they sign a lease.

About 44% of Californians rent their housing, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Only about 36% of renters statewide live in buildings with 10 units or more, meaning Haneys bill will not apply to most tenants.

The assemblyman on Thursday presented his bill on the Assembly floor and announced he had reached an agreement with the California Apartment Association to incorporate the amendments once AB 2216 moves to the Senate. He passed around the chamber a letter from the Apartment Association saying the organization would take a neutral position on the bill with the changes.

The measure passed off the floor with a 46-9 vote.

The Sacramento Bee has reached out to the Apartment Association seeking a comment about the bill.

Tenants have won some victories in recent years. A 2019 bill from former Assemblyman David Chiu, D-San Francisco, capped rent increases and required landlords to provide a just cause for evicting tenants if they did nothing wrong.

Haney last year authored a bill capping security deposits at one to two months rent, depending on the size of the landlords properties.

The assemblyman said that cap helped him negotiate an agreement on the pet bill, because landlords will not be able to charge more for deposits when the new law takes effect on July 1.

In addition to charging tenants fees, landlords would need to accept more pets, Haney said.

In exchange for that, lets make sure were actually increasing access, he said. Lets deal with the way folks have their applications tossed aside just for owning a pet. Lets eliminate the blanket no pet bans, and lets get rid of pet rent.

Haneys bill now advances to Senate committees.

The story was updated to clarify that properties with 15 or fewer units would be exempt.
A nonpartisan California agency is cautioning lawmakers that savings from a cut to state operations proposed by Gov. Gavin Newsom may not materialize and that would pose a larger deficit in the next budget year.

In his budget revisions earlier this months, Newsom proposed trimming state operations -- cuts to nearly all department budgets -- by nearly 8% to save approximately $3 billion a year to deal with an estimated $45 billion budget deficit.

In addition the administration wants to achieve $762.5 million in savings by eliminating 10,000 now-vacant state jobs.





The cuts to state operations would build on a December budget letter Newsoms Department of Finance sent to all state departments and agencies that enacted a current year budget freeze in anticipation of the looming deficit.

The freeze, among other items, included prohibiting departments from entering into new contracts or agreements, halting discretionary and non-essential IT purchases, unless related to a critical security needs, and canceling non-essential travel.

The administration plans to build on the savings generated from December directive after the final budget is approved by working with state departments and agencies. These reductions in state operations, the governor noted in his budget revision, could include personnel, operating costs and contracting .

However, the precise contours of those reductions will not be known until the final budget is approved, points out H.D. Palmer, a Department of Finance spokesman.

With budget negotiations now ongoing, the Legislature may not agree with Newsoms Department of Finance exercising the administrations authority to decide on the cuts in the various state departments and agencies.

Furthermore, We think there is a high risk that the level of savings assumed from the proposed reduction measures will not fully materialize in 2024-25, the Legislative Analysts Office says in its new budget and policy post. To the extent that savings do not materialize, this proposal would create a larger future budget challenge.

Newsoms Department of Finance responded that if the Legislature disagrees with the administrations proposal, lawmakers would then need to come up with an alternative way to generate the $3 billion in savings the administration expects from trims it wants to work out directly with various departments in the future.

If the Legislature rejects the governors proposal, theyll have to find $3 billion (in) offsetting savings to make that decision net out, Palmer said.

The proposed cuts to operations and the estimated annual savings to the budget do not necessarily equate to cutting more staff, Palmer added, although in some departments that may happen even as other areas within those same departments may see in increase in staffing depending on priorities and how to best achieve operational efficiencies.

In another analysis, the Legislative Analysts Office estimated last week that the administration is addressing a larger budget gap than what it reported in its recently revised spending plan and contends with a $55 billion shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year, which beings July 1.

Overall, the analysis said the governors new plan improves the fiscal health of the state in a number of ways.

State operation costs have spiked over time

Palmer said the proposed reductions are necessary as part of the overall plan to close the (budget) shortfall  while at the same time encouraging departments to operate more efficiently in a way that will maintain core operations of state government.

Wed note that the proposal recognizes and makes exceptions for specific categories  such as agencies that have 24-hour care or operational requirements, as an example, Palmer added.

State operations costs have seen significant growth in the last five years, ballooning from $44 billion when the Budget Act was passed in 2019 to a peak of $68 billion in 2021; in 2022 and 2023 those operation costs were over $51 billion.

The administration notes that its proposed reductions acknowledge that the growth in recent years isnt sustainable for the states ongoing budget.

In the coming weeks, the Department of Finance will continue to evaluate the areas where savings can be achieved.

However, until the Budget Act is passed by the Legislature and approved by the governor, the administration cant definitively determine all areas for operational efficiencies, since these efficiencies have to take into consideration the full scope of the Budget Act in its final form, Palmer said in an email.

Legislative Analysts Office urges caution

The LAO urged lawmakers to be skeptical that the administrations proposed state cuts would not affect the service levels at the departments impacted.

It seems highly unlikely to us that permanently reducing roughly $1 in every $10 spent on state operations would have no effect on services, the analysis notes.

While Newsom is proposing cuts to state operations expenditures, his revised budget also proposes increases to implement already enacted legislation and other new activities, the LAO says, adding that the incongruity  is difficult to reconcile.

Money is fungible. If the Legislature were to approve both the unallocated reductions and the proposed budget augmentations to fund new activities, what assurances can the administration provide that the newly approved funding and position authority would be used to implement the new activities and not, instead, used to backfill reductions established by the cuts, the analysis notes.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. Africa plays a pivotal and exclusive role in the context of climate finance, an independent member of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan and UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP29 Nigar Arpadarai said, addressing the Africa CEO Forum in an online format, Trend reports referring to Arpadarai's speech on social media.

She emphasized that the advancement of the private sector and its leadership in tackling climate change are now more pertinent than ever in accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and facilitating the global energy transition.

The Champion for COP29 noted that there has been ongoing engagement with African companies during the Conferences of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change since COP27.

The ongoing dialogue with African business leaders is an integral component of the COP29 preparatory process, and we are pleased to have these consultations included.

Africa possesses the potential to pioneer innovative projects aligned with the five primary objectives of the SDGs. The private sector plays a pivotal role in advancing green technologies and fostering an inclusive, sustainable future, said Arpadarai.

She mentioned that the COP29 presidency team is actively exploring climate solutions for Africa by engaging in discussions on climate finance mechanisms.

Overall, as highlighted by the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion, there are 127 promising projects, each with an innovative component crucial for addressing the impacts of climate change globally.

This November, Azerbaijan will host COP29. This decision was made at the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11 last year. Baku will become the center of the world and will receive about 7080,000 foreign guests.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. COPthe Conference of the Partiesis the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. There are 198 countries that are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.

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California mom fined $88K after kids accidentally broke the law at the beach

A California mother faced an $88,000 fine after her five children collected 72 clams that they mistakenly thought were seashells.

Charlotte Russ told local news station KFSN that she took her kids on a day trip to Pismo Beach, and made a mistake by letting her kids take the clams from the beach.

The Fresno resident said she was confronted on the beach by an official from the states Department of Fish and Wildlife, and informed that her five children were collecting clams without a license.

L.A. County to get first new regional park in over 35 years on site of former landfill

Russ said she received a ticket the day of the incident, which happened in late 2023, and later got a notice in the mail stating she faced a fine of $88,000.

Clamming is highly regulated at Pismo Beach. Clammers must have a valid state sport fishing license to take clams, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

A San Luis Obispo County judge later reduced the fine to $500 after Russ explained the situation, according to reporting by KFSN.

It was definitely one expensive trip to Pismo, unforgettable, Russ said to KFSN.

To celebrate her court win, Russ said she got a tattoo of a shellfish.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Gov. Gavin Newsom is facing backlash from different public interest groups following the unveiling of his revised 2024-2025 budget, which addresses a $45 billion deficit by making big cuts to state operations and programs. Chief among his critics is the California Teachers Association, which claims that Newsoms cuts to K12 education are unconstitutional and will wreak havoc for years to come.

The teachers union and the California School Boards Association are both asserting that the governors maneuver to avoid $8.8 billion in immediate cuts to schools is not lawful under Proposition 98 (which sets aside a minimum amount of funding for schools in the state budget), sets a dangerous precedent for the future of public school funding and could devastate school district budgets for several years.

In the 2022-23 fiscal year, California gave its public schools $76 billion because thats what they estimated the Prop 98 formula required. Newsoms administration says that because state tax collections ended up being 25% less than what the state had predicted, this retroactively affects the formula for public school funding to the tune of $8.8 billion.

The problem is that the state cant take that money back, as school districts have already spent it. Instead, Newsom is treating the money like a preemptive loan: spreading the cost across future school budgets by reducing public education spending in the upcoming years. While this maneuver prevents layoffs and district budget cuts at the moment, the California Teachers Association estimates that this, along with another accounting move by the administration that the union alleges is illegal, would actually reduce public school spending by $12 billion in the next two years.

Prop 98, when it was passed, was meant to be the floor. And when you start having maneuvers that all of the sudden say, the floor is not really the floor, what that means for educators and students is untold harm, teachers union President David Goldberg said.

How Sacramento schools will fare

For most schools, the vast majority of their funding comes from the state level. School districts across the state have their eyes on Newsoms budget as they draft their budget proposals for next year.

Janea Marking, Chief Business and Operations Officer at Sacramento City Unified School District, said that while the budget does represent a loss of anticipated revenue, no student programs are at risk of being cut. The districts proposed budget will be presented at the next board meeting on June 6.

But educators still fear the implications that the shortfall could have on their schools. Nikki Milevsky, President of Sacramento City Teachers Association, worries that budget cuts could roll back efforts to bolster student success that were just gaining momentum in her district and in districts across the state. She said that similar state cuts to education funding in the past usually result in laying off support staff.

It would be devastating to schools to have these kinds of cuts, Milevsky said. Were working really hard with our district right now to put in intervention programs for students, and this budget cut would undermine that terribly.

At Twin Rivers Unified School District, students are largely not meeting learning standards, and the results for Black, Latino, indigenous and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged students are even more bleak. That said, the districts test scores have improved overall since 2015, but budget cuts could risk the efforts to close the racial achievement gap and get all students up to grade level, said Rebecca LeDoux, President of the Twin Rivers United Educators.

LeDoux worries that Newsoms budget maneuver could result in larger class sizes and fewer instructional aids, special ed teachers, counselors and psychologists on staff to help students get the individualized attention they need to succeed academically.

Behind all of those cuts are students, those are kids who need extra attention and they may never reach their full potential because of those cuts, LeDoux said. The cost to the kids is really immeasurable in my opinion.

LeDoux is also troubled by the effect the slashed budget could have on teachers in her district and on the industry at large. Amid a teacher shortage, factors like poor benefits or pay that doesnt reflect the areas rising cost of living will keep people from being attracted to the profession. LeDoux said that the poor quality of benefits at Twin Rivers Unified has greatly reduced the number of people interested in teaching at the district.

The road forward

CTA launched an ad campaign earlier this month urging the public to pressure state leaders into halting this maneuver. The union is hoping to work with state leaders to reach a resolution before heading down the path of litigation.

Were open to any solution and talking through different ideas, but what we are not open to at all is any gimmicks that put years of gains in public school funding in jeopardy, Goldberg said. We will not accept a proposal to cut funding from classrooms today and we will not accept a proposal to cut funding from classrooms in future years.

If a lawsuit is filed, it would likely not be resolved until well after the cuts are in effect, but Goldberg said that it is important to challenge unconstitutional moves by legislators and to set a precedent that strengthens  not weakens  Prop 98. The state school boards association has also threatened a lawsuit.
California Sens. Alex Padilla, left, and Laphonza Butler confer on the Senate floor in November 2023. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press)

Breaking with his own partys leadership and the Biden administration, Californias Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla helped lead an effort to defeat the bipartisan border security bill that again failed to advance on Thursday.

In an impassioned Senate floor speech, Padilla criticized the legislation as inadequate and encouraged his fellow senators to do whats right for Dreamers, farmworkers and other long-term undocumented members of our communities.

The remarks were his strongest public rebuke yet of the first major immigration reform proposal in years to make headway in Congress.

Padillas vigorous opposition to the compromise is the latest example of his willingness to stake out an aggressive position on principle on an issue critical to his state. He was joined by most Republicans, who voted against the bill because they said it did not do enough to secure the border.

The bill included significant provisions to tighten security but none to help change the status of immigrants in the country illegally.

So the Senate is voting on this package for a second time, but still no vote on the DREAM Act? he said. Its hard to swallow.

Read more: Senate Republicans block bipartisan border package, scuttling deal they had demanded from Democrats

Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) said he sought Thursdays floor vote to make the point that Democrats want solutions on the border issue.

Senators voted 50 to 43 against the bill, which Sens. James Lankford (R-Okla.), Christopher S. Murphy (D-Conn.) and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) had negotiated for months starting last fall.

A previous vote in February failed by a tally of 49 to 50, well shy of the 60 votes needed to pass. Lankford and Sinema flipped their votes to oppose their measure this time, as did Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Mitt Romney of Utah.

Padilla played a role in encouraging his colleagues to go against the plan. An aide said the senator had held private conversations with Democrats in the last few months and had contributed to Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey and fellow Californian Laphonza Butler flipping their votes and opposing the bill.

In a statement after the vote, Butler echoed Padillas language, saying the bill failed to provide comprehensive solutions for critical communities  DACA recipients, farmworkers, and longterm U.S. residents.

While there are elements of this bill I support, including funding for our border communities and efforts to prevent the flow of fentanyl, this measure simply misses the mark, she wrote.

The Senate bill would toughen screenings for asylum and speed up the process, and let presidents immediately expel migrants if arrivals surpass a certain daily threshold.

Immigration has been a core issue of Padillas political identity. In his speech, he recalled returning home to California from college to find hateful TV ads warning of an invasion at our border. The ads were in support of Proposition 187, the 1994 law that sought to deny medical care, social services and education to immigrants suspected of lacking lawful status.

Padilla said that seeing public officials scapegoat and demonize families like his convinced him to join an ensuing movement to bring more Latinos into positions of power.

That hateful rhetoric is back, Padilla said. He pointed to former President Trumps statement  echoing those by Adolf Hitler  that immigrants are poisoning the blood of the country, and Republicans declarations that there is an invasion at the southern border.

Padilla said such claims are undeniably part of the context in which the border bill was written.

The senators independent streak is significant, coming in a critical election year in which Republicans have seized on the issue of immigration, rallying against Democrats for what they see as soft border policies.

Read more: California Sen. Padilla splits with Biden on proposed immigration, foreign aid package

The bipartisan legislation was a fundamental piece of the Biden administrations shift toward more conservative immigration policies  an effort to help Democrats in vulnerable seats maintain control of the Senate and regain the House.

Padillas public opposition to the president on this issue reflects a growing rift among Democrats.

The senator campaigned in 2022 on his desire to reform the immigration system, and personally warned Biden in mid-December not to fold to the GOP.

In his speech Thursday, Padilla pointed out that the immigration proposal was originally meant as a concession to get Republicans to agree to send more aid to Ukraine.

But guess what, Mr. President? We passed the foreign aid! he said. And so I cant help but ask, whats this concession for now?

He also critiqued executive actions on immigration that Biden reportedly plans to announce in the coming weeks, calling them extreme. Thursdays vote was widely seen as a leadup to those measures, which could include a provision that would allow the administration to broadly block migrants from entering the country.

Before the vote, Padilla warned colleagues that history would judge them.

We should be better than this, he said.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Candidates for mayor of the City of Las Vegas will face off Thursday in a debate hosted by KLAS 8 News Now ahead of the 2024 election.

The three front-runners in the race for mayor, former congresswoman Shelley Berkley, City Councilman Cedric Crear, and City Councilwoman Victoria Seaman, will participate in the hour-long debate in the lead-up to the primary election.

The upcoming mayoral term will last four years.

After 25 years, there will be someone other than a Goodman in the office. Incumbent mayor Carolyn Goodman was elected in 2011. She is term-limited from running again. Her husband, Oscar Goodman, served as Las Vegas mayor from 1999 to 2011.

Former Congresswoman Shelley Berkley

Berkley, who was raised in Las Vegas, served the State of Nevada in the United States House of Representatives from 1999 to 2013, holding the position for seven terms. She also served in the Nevada State Assembly from 1982 to 1984. According to Berkleys website, Berkley was a practicing attorney for the Nevada State Commerce Department, in-house counsel for Southwest Gas Corporation, and Vice President for Government and Legal Affairs for the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas.

City Councilman Cedric Crear

Before joining the Las Vegas City Council as the representative from Ward 5 in 2018, Crear was elected to the Board of Regents for the Nevada System of Higher Education in 2006 and reelected in 2012. He was also on the Las Vegas Planning Commission from 2015 to 2018. According to his website, Crear is the only person in Las Vegas history to have served simultaneously as a Higher Education Regent and a Las Vegas Planning Commissioner. Crear grew up in Las Vegas and has previously worked as a marketing director in the casino industry.

City Councilwoman Victoria Seaman

Seaman is currently serving as councilwoman for the Las Vegas City Council representing Ward 2 and previously spent one term and two special sessions in the Nevada State Legislature representing Clark Countys Assembly District 34. Seaman serves on the Debt Committee, Yucca Mountain Nuclear Repository Committee, Southern Nevada Water Authority, Recommending Committee, and serves as Chair of the Audit Committee, according to her website.

Voting Information

The primary election for the Mayor of the City of Las Vegas will be held on June 11, 2024, and the general election will be held on November 5, 2024.

Early voting for the primary election begins on Saturday, May 25, and ends on Friday, June 7. Some voters across Clark County have already received mail ballots.

If any of the candidates on the primary election ballot receives more than 50% of the votes, they will automatically win the mayoral spot. Otherwise, the top two candidates will move on to the general election in November.

Those who plan on voting early can do so at any of the 85 voting locations, 20 of which are long-term sites. The other 65 locations are short-term neighborhood sites that are open only on specific dates. To find the location closest to you, click on this link.

Mail ballots may also be dropped off at any early voting site during the dates and times that each location is open.

Those who wish to vote in person instead of by mail will either need to surrender the mail ballot at the voting site or sign an affirmation on-site swearing that they have not already voted in the current election and will not attempt to vote more than once.

Those voting on primary election day can click on this link to see a list of all voting centers and mail ballot drop-off locations. Voting on June 11, 2024, will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Clark County Elections website provides additional information about registering, voting, or any other election day services in Clark County.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Capitol Perspectives: The value of tolerance to college protests

A stone marker in Columbia's Peace Park placed to remember Kent State University students killed by Ohio National Guard troops who fired on protesters on May 4, 1970 (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent).

This column is a suggestion to both college student protesters and higher education officials to find a better approach to the pro-Palestinian student protests.

Those protests and university reaction are so different from the 1970 student demonstrations on the University of Missouris Columbia campus in protest to the Vietnam War and the deaths of four Kent State University students shot by Ohios National Guard who were called up to deal with a campus anti-war protest.

At Missouri, thousands of students gathered on MUs Francis Quadrangle in 1970 to protest the deaths.

The emotions on both sides were just as deep as today. And, yes, there were a few isolated acts of violence in Missouri including reports of a couple of fire bombs thrown against a campus ROTC building, although I do not recall serious damage  unlike the major damage caused by a similar attack at a higher education ROTC facility in St. Louis

The MU protesters called for the university to recognize the Kent State student deaths by canceling classes and also take a stand against the Vietnam war.

One night, MUs chancellor, John Schwada, invited some of the protesters to the patio of his campus home beside the quad to explain his decision not to cancel classes.

As I remember, he sought to calm the situation. He did not criticize the protesters views. Rather he talked about how class cancellations would disrupt the educational process for students.

Ive since learned that the MU student association vice president, Chip Casteel, had discussed with the chancellor how to de-escalate the tensions after Chip encountered armed military pointing weapons behind the main door of the administration building where Schwadas office was located.

The purpose was to block protesters storming the building. It was that serious.

It makes me wonder how the protests in other universities this year might have been different if the student protesters were peaceful and they had a university leader like Schwada to engage in conversations with students and reporters rather than an armed law enforcement response.

However, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that some of Schwadas staff took a different approach.

One of Schwadas top officials sought to confiscate video of that patio discussion taken by a TV journalism student.

In addition, I was warned the university would expel me from the university if my audio of Schwadas comments was broadcast.

Those reactions were absurd.

There was no privacy invasion. Schwada had invited protesters in the quad to his patio. My TV colleagues camera was obvious as was the microphone I held up in front of Schwada to record his conversation.

In fact, I remember Schwada actually made room for me to get my microphone closer. The chancellor knew I was a reporter because of my regular news coverage of him.

Although my radio stories were broadcast, I was not expelled. Ive always wondered if Schwada blocked that effort to toss me out of MU. Or, maybe, the idea just died on its own.

Beyond Schwada, CBS Correspondent Harry Reasoner helped demonstrate to students the value of a civilized conversation when facing deep political or ideological divides.

Reasoner was in Columbia to accept the Journalism Schools Honor Medal. But he was drawn to the massive crowd of protesters.

As a reporter who covered conflicting views, I found his presentation insightful. Essentially, he made it a teaching moment for the student protesters.

The lessons I learned from those 1970 demonstrations should be something that both students and college administrators consider.

For administrators, campus protests by students can be an opportunity for teaching opportunities, as was demonstrated by Reasoner and Schwada.

There is another component of the 1970 Columbia protest that other universities should consider. Its to make amends for harsh actions against students after the protests have ended.

One such action involved Bill Wikersham. As the founding director of the universitys Peace Study Institute, he was described as a faculty leader of the 1970 protests.

Although he stressed peace, he was arrested and suspended from MUs faculty for participating in the campus protests.

Yet, he subsequently was reinstated as an adjunct professor of peace studies.

A physical example of restoring peace is a peace symbol made of rock stones that student protesters had put together. It remains to this day on the MU campus, not far from the center of the protests.

The post Capitol Perspectives: The value of tolerance to college protests appeared first on Missouri Independent.
Car crashes into fire truck in Uptown

A car crashed into a fire truck in Pittsburghs Uptown neighborhood on Thursday evening.

Pittsburgh police said the car was trying to cross in front of a fire truck at the intersection of 5th Avenue and Stevenson Street around 6:30 p.m.

The truck sustained minimal damage but had no service disruptions.

No one was hurt.

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Car crashing into pole knocks out power to 2,000 in University area: Officials

Car crashing into pole knocks out power to 2,000 in University area: Officials

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Nearly 2,000 customers are without power Friday afternoon in the University area after a car crashed into a pole.

According to Duke Energy officials, the outage occurred around 3:40 p.m. May 24. Its expected to be restored by 6:45 p.m. Outbound lanes of North Tryon Street are closed at Institute Circle Drive, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police say, and that nearby traffic signals are out of commission.

 Track issues along your commute with the QCN Traffic Interactive Map

Medic officials say a car accident in the area sent one person to the hospital. The person has serious injuries.

As of 4:20 p.m., traffic was backed up on North Tryon in both directions in between JW Clay Boulevard and the Mallard Creek Greenway bridge

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A multi-vehicle crash caused a raging car fire on a ramp connecting to the Ted Williams Tunnel Friday afternoon, snarling traffic and causing people to abandon their cars and run out on foot.

Three cars were involved in a collision on an entrance ramp of I-93 northbound near Albany Street around 4:00 p.m. Boston Deputy Fire Chief James Greene said. One of the vehicles caught fire, quickly spreading flames to the two other involved vehicles.

Of the six vehicle occupants, three suffered minor injuries, Greene said.

Photos and video sent to Boston 25 showed the stopped vehicles engulfed in flames with smoke billowing to the roof of the tunnel.

Julie Brownell was driving into the tunnel with her boyfriend Michael Cram when they encountered traffic and eventually discovered the cars fully engulfed in flames.

Its jarring sight to see. Ive never experienced that before, Brownell said. I stopped the car and was thinking, What are we going to do? How are we going to get out of here? And is everyone OK?

At one point, I got out of the car and started going toward it to check, and then I saw another gentleman took a few steps and completely turned back and then we heard pops and explosions, Cram added.

Passenger Krystal Collazo was with her cousin heading to Logan Airport when they approached the tunnel fire. As unaware drivers continued to enter the tunnel, Collazo told Boston 25 News she realized they were going to be stuck inside if she didnt get out and alert drivers behind her.

My first, initial thought was, Oh, my god. Were going to get trapped in this tunnel if nobody goes and tells these people to stop, Collazo said. I ran like a crazy woman, flailing my arms, screaming I was telling them to lower their windows, and I was just screaming, Theres a big fire. We have to get out. Please, you have to back up.

Many drivers turned around in the congested tunnel while some backed out. State troopers helped guide others out and safely away from the flames.

Several were treated for smoke inhalation, police said.

The eastbound ramp and the Frontage Road ramp on I-93 northbound were closed past 10:00 p.m. as inspectors evaluated the area to see if repairs would be needed.

The vehicle fire has caused damage in the ramp area, including damage to some lights, wall tiles, and pavement. The scene has been secured, cleaned and is safe for the traveling public. Any damage will be repaired at a later date, MassDOT said in a statement.

The Boston Fire Department shared photos of the charred husks of the cars destroyed by the fire.

As of 6:00 p.m., the remains of one of the vehicles were still inside the connecting tunnel.

Greene said because one of the vehicles involved was a hybrid, it burned longer than the other two.

Boston 25 News reporter Christine McCarthy was able to see one of the vehicles that caught fire being removed from the tunnel.

Heres one of the 3 vehicles involved in fire in the Ted Williams Tunnel. 3 minor injuries of the 6 occupants in the 3 cars. Started following a crash. One vehicle, a hybrid, much harder to extinguish. 2 ramps closed, MassDOT inspecting pavement for any needed repairs. @boston25 pic.twitter.com/6eBlgwDwY5  Christine McCarthy (@ChristineMNews) May 24, 2024

First responders could be seen racing down the connecting tunnel, speeding past stopped cars to respond to the raging fire.

A line of cars was backed up heading into the tunnel.

Additional video sent to Boston 25 News showed smoke billowing over the tunnel near the Fort Point Channel.

Smoke rising from vent building over TWT. Anyone know whats up? pic.twitter.com/CSdYuA9KzN  The Fort Pointer (@FortPointer) May 24, 2024

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Car thefts on the mind of Charlotte nonprofit leaders aiming to prevent summer spike of juvenile crime

Car thefts on the mind of Charlotte nonprofit leaders aiming to prevent summer spike of juvenile crime

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Authorities are preparing for a rise in youth crime as school lets out for the summer.

Police warn Kia and Hyundai drivers to take extra precautions against theft due to a continuing social media trend teaching teens how to steal those companies models.

Arri Woodhouse became a victim of the trend right before moving to Charlotte in March.

It was the scariest, saddest moment of my life, she said.

14-year-old found in woods IDd as victim in NE Charlotte mobile home park shooting

Police said a group of teens smashed the windows of her Kia, took it for a joyride, smoked marijuana inside the car, then left it in a neighboring apartment complex parking lot.

It was my first car that I ever owned by myself, and I had never thought that someone would just take my car. And it was a bunch of kids! Woodhouse said.

She now uses a steering wheel lock in her vehicle.

Vehicles like Woodhouses are popping up in lots across Charlotte. Officials warn those who previously had their car stolen they may be at higher risk of getting it taken again as students summer vacations begins.

Community leaders like Alesha Brown, executive director of For the Struggle Inc., try to help them spend their newfound freedom wisely.

The idea is not necessarily that, you know, summertime brings out all the bad, she said. The idea is how do we occupy that free time in a way thats productive.

For the Struggle launched a program called Salute U to provide alternatives for Charlotte youth.

Brown and her team launched a mentoring program for teens who may have disciplinary issues or criminal pasts called Salute U. The curriculum not only addresses problem behaviors but helps build healthy outlooks to prevent kids from any involvement in criminal activity.

That preventative component is so very important because far too often we talk about how do we help people who are formerly incarcerated? How do we help children who are in and out of jail? How do we provide them all of these services? Brown asked. But very rarely folks are talking about how do we prevent them from getting there in the first place.

Browns team established Salute U in April 2023. During the first summer, none of the children in the program reportedly engaged in any criminal or violent behaviors.

Program Director Antwan Chambers said offering engaging opportunities, like giving students chances to make money working events for the organization, is key to a successful operation. He said too many summer activities are viewed by kids as an extension of school.

We want it to be something that they actually gravitate to, and I think that makes a difference, Chambers said. I think we try to make our programs something that meets them in the middle. Its educational. You are learning, youre doing something different, but it is something that you want to do.

Brown said about half of the programs operating budget comes from Mecklenburg County funding. She said the countys Juvenile Crime Prevention Council helped them secure the thousands of dollars which led to great successes in their first year.

I will note that only two of our children since the beginning of this academic school year have engaged in violent behavior, which is a drastic change from where we were when we started around this time last year, she said. So, somethings working and Im very proud of that.

Chambers said he hopes to see more conversations around youth violence include more youth voices.

The way to build sustainable relationships with the youth is to recognize the humanity in them. I think a lot of times we minimize that. We talk to them and about them as if they just like people to take orders and to not be heard, he said. Shifting that and really doing our part as people who were all once kids before to be that like adult that we know we needed.

Woodhouse is hopeful, with proper resources, even the thieves she encountered can change.

I just feel bad for them. I hope they take this experience and do better in life, she said.

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* U.S. carmaker Tesla broke ground on a mega factory in Shanghai on Thursday to manufacture its energy-storage batteries. * It is expected to begin mass production in the first quarter of 2025, with an initial capacity of 10,000 Megapack units a year. * As the global renewables powerhouse, China is a major market for energy storage. SHANGHAI, May 23 (Xinhua) -- U.S. carmaker Tesla broke ground on a mega factory in Shanghai on Thursday to manufacture its energy-storage batteries, Megapacks, a project hailed by the company as a "milestone." The latest move underscores Tesla's commitment to investing in the world's second-largest economy, defying the rhetoric of "decoupling" and "de-risking" from China ratcheted up by some U.S. politicians. The new plant spans an area of approximately 200,000 square meters, with a total investment of around 1.45 billion yuan (about 203.94 million U.S. dollars), according to the administration of Lin-gang Special Area of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone. The mega factory is the first of its kind built by Tesla outside the United States and the company's second plant in Shanghai, following the inauguration of its gigafactory in 2019 which involved an initial investment of over 50 billion yuan. "I believe the new plant is a milestone for both Shanghai and Tesla," the company's vice president Tao Lin told Xinhua in an exclusive interview. "In a more open environment, we can create a new Tesla speed at the Megapack factory, and supply the global market with large-scale energy-storage batteries manufactured in China," she added. At Thursday's groundbreaking ceremony in Shanghai, Tesla representatives and local government officials formally launched the construction of the Megapack factory, which is expected to begin mass production in the first quarter of 2025, with an initial capacity of 10,000 Megapack units a year. "With Tesla's benchmark project, we anticipate that within the next three to five years, an industrial cluster centered around energy storage will rapidly emerge," said Lu Yu, an official of the Lin-gang Special Area Administration. After the ceremony, Tesla signed a deal with Shanghai Lingang Economic Development (Group) Co., Ltd., securing the first batch of orders for its Megapacks in China. Gong Wei, vice president of Lingang Group, said the Megapacks would be used for energy storage in a data center in the Lin-gang Special Area, as part of its efforts to achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. Tesla's deep involvement in the energy storage industry now rivals its electric vehicles in importance, Tao said, adding that its energy storage products are currently used in over 60 countries and regions. The U.S. company already has a factory for its Megapacks in California, which has an annual capacity of 10,000 units. Each Megapack unit can store over 3.9 megawatt-hours of energy, sufficient to power approximately 3,600 households for one hour. As the global renewables powerhouse, China is a major market for energy storage. Last year, its installed renewable energy capacity surpassed thermal power for the first time, accounting for approximately 50 percent of the global additions to renewable energy capacity. Tesla's plan to open a Megapack battery plant in Shanghai was announced In April 2023, cementing another foothold for the company in China. The land acquisition deal for the project was signed in December of the same year, and it received a construction permit earlier this month. Lauding China's efforts in developing new energy industry, including the energy storage sector, Tao said the country boasts complete industrial chains, vast market potentials, and a production and business environment crucial for enterprise growth. In January 2019, Tesla broke ground on its Shanghai Gigafactory, becoming the first company to benefit from a policy allowing foreign carmakers to establish wholly-owned subsidiaries in the world's largest automotive market and one of the fastest-growing EV markets. The gigafactory delivered 947,000 vehicles in 2023, an increase of 33 percent from the previous year. It has emerged as Tesla's primary vehicle export hub, with more than half of its global deliveries of over 1.8 million electric vehicles last year originating from there. Thursday's groundbreaking ceremony for the Megapack plant comes less than a month after Tesla CEO Elon Musk visited China, during which he said the company is willing to deepen cooperation with China to achieve more win-win results. China's faster-than-expected economic growth of 5.3 percent in the first quarter reaffirms its attractiveness for foreign investment. The number of newly established foreign-invested firms in the country hit 12,000 during the period, up 20.7 percent year on year. Enditem (Reporting by Cheng Lu, Zhou Rui, Yang Xiaojing, Chang Yuan and Yang Youzong; Video reporters: Ding Ting, Zhou Rui, Yang Youzong and Fang Zhe; Video editors: Zhang Qiru, Zhu Jianhui and Wang Han.)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. American companies have been invited to participate in the auction for the design, financing, construction, and operation of the Gobustan solar power plant with a capacity of 100 MW, Trend reports.

According to the information, this was announced on May 24 during a meeting between the director of the State Agency for Renewable Energy Sources (BOEMDA) under the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, Javid Abdullayev, and representatives of the American delegation.

"The interest in this first open international auction for a renewables facility in Azerbaijan announced in May is very high," Abdullayev emphasized at the meeting with Jill Dawson, a member of the US Senate from Maine, as well as members of the US House of Representatives.

The director of BOEMDA said that green energy facilities to be created within the framework of cooperation with foreign companies will contribute to the global energy transition and the implementation of climate goals in Azerbaijan.

To note, Azerbaijan plans to increase the renewable energy capacity in the total energy balance of the country to 3033 percent within five years.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
The cargo theft problem isnt getting any better in 2024, with the logistics and transportation industry falling victim to more than 900 incidents in the first quarter alone.

According to data from cargo theft prevention and recovery network CargoNet, there were 925 total incidents in the three-month perioda 46 percent jump compared to year-ago figures and a 10 percent quarter-over-quarter increase.

More from Sourcing Journal

With Memorial Day Weekend on the horizon, CargoNet advises supply chain professionals to be on high alert because cargo thieves will seek to leverage extended business closures.

In particular, the company wants workers to be on alert for unauthorized attempts to misdirect shipments from the intended receiver.

Before accepting a bid on a shipment, logistics brokers should consider enhanced carrier qualification practices, such as verifying with the registered FMCSA phone number or email or monitoring FMCSA form updates to unauthorized changes to a motor carriers contact information. Additionally, brokers should be checking for established, positive load history.

CargoNet says shippers should consider enhancing sign-in procedures to capture vital information about the truck and driver picking up a shipment.

From the period of 2019 to 2023, there were 146 events reported on Memorial Day Weekend, with an average of 29 events per year. Fifty-seven percent of the events took place in California, Texas or Florida. The number of incidents increased from 16 in 2022 to 40 in 2023.

The stolen cargo in each event was worth an average of $264,016, due in part to three thefts that exceeded $1 million in property stolen. Total loss value was $12.4 million.

The Memorial Day statistics are sliver of the wider problemone which doubled from 2019 to 2023. Late last year, Keith Lewis, vice president of operations at CargoNet, told Sourcing Journal that he didnt see the problem getting any better in 2024.

According to CargoNets data, the average stolen shipment value in the first quarter of 2024 was $281,757, up from the five-year Memorial Day average, while the declared total value was $76 million. However, that number only accounts for incidents where the victim reports the total.

By extrapolating the average shipment value across events without a declared value, CargoNet estimates that a total of $154.6 million worth of goods were stolen from January through March.

While reported events increased in most states, the top targets include California (with a 72 percent year-over-year increase in theft incidents), Illinois (with a 126 percent year-over-year jump) and Texas (with a 22 percent year-over-year increase).

Those three states represented 61 percent of all theft in the first quarter. The top targeted locations for these cargo theft instances include warehouses and distribution centers, as well as parking lots.

Much of the threat came in the form of complex fraud schemes, where entire truckloads were picked up and never delivered or delivered with digitally altered paperwork to hide the theft from the customer.

However, simple cargo theft, including the whole theft of unattended, loaded trailers and pilferage of unattended, loaded trailers, remained a persistent issue. Notable hotspots for such thefts included Southern California, Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta, as well as the corridor spanning New York, northern New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania, CargoNet said.

Looking ahead to the second quarter and beyond, CargoNet anticipates that high levels of non-delivery thefts and strategic shortages will persist, the company said in a release. The threat landscape remains dynamic, necessitating continuous vigilance and proactive security measures from stakeholders across the supply chain.

Certain commodities, such as small appliances, liquor, energy drinks and copper, were heavily targeted, the report said.

For those that are carrying cargo in transit, CargoNet recommends that companies make sure both security managers and drivers have an accurate license plate, vehicle identification number (VIN) and descriptive information for tractors, trailers, containers and container chassis. Police agencies will need this information to open an investigation in the event of an incident.

The company suggests supply chain employees to secure all trailers and trailers with hardened padlocks and high-security locking devices, respectively. Additionally, CargoNet says to avoid having loaded trailers sit unattended.

CargoNet also gave some security tips to warehouse workers, reminding them to make sure the facilitys lighting, generators, alarm systems and surveillance equipment are in working order. The firm also said to remove keys from all equipment and place them in a secure location, and encouraged documentation and reporting of all suspicious activity that occurs in the facility.
The legal battle between the Carmelite nuns of the Monastery of the Most Holy Trinity and Bishop Michael Olson may be over after a second lawsuit was dismissed on Wednesday, but another fight involving orders from the Vatican over who has authority over the nuns is brewing.

On Wednesday and Thursday, a representative appointed by Rome was turned away when she tried to enter the monastery to deliver letters from the Vatican to the nine cloistered nuns. They do not want to be governed or managed by the Association of Christ the King, the Carmelite order appointed to govern and manage operations of the monastery, according to the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth.

A spokesperson for the diocese wrote in an email, The Diocese does not know what will happen next because this is a matter between the Vatican and the Christ the King Association.

The diocese also stated in an email that a priest who accompanied the representative to celebrate Mass for the nuns was also turned away Thursday.

On Wednesday, Mother Marie of the Incarnation, president of the Carmelite Association of Christ the King, issued a statement which said in part, Today, in obedience to the Decree of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, I visited the Arlington Carmel and attempted to present to each Sister the letters which the Dicastery had directed me to give to each individually. Unfortunately, I was rejected and not granted admittance.

But the nuns countered with a statement that asked Olson to apologize publicly and in person, calling his investigation into allegations that the Rev. Mother Teresa Agnes Gerlach violated her chastity vows with a priest abusive.

In respect of the decrees upholding Bishop Olsons investigation of allegations against our Mother Prioress, we repeat that his investigations were flawed in radice, carried out in an intimidatory manner and violated her ecclesiastical and civil rights.

Vatican decrees

On Tuesday, the Vatican issued several decrees upholding Olsons decision to investigate Gerlach, who was accused of breaking her chastity vow with a priest from North Carolina.

But the Vatican overturned Olsons decision to dismiss her from the Carmelite order because she did not exert force or violence and she did not have authority over the priest, the Rev. Phillip Johnson.

Olson said in a statement that he contacted the Diocese of Raleigh to report the priests misconduct. Olson also stated that the priest did not cooperate with his investigation.

But in court documents, Gerlach, who uses a wheelchair and often relies on a feeding tube, said she was recovering from surgery and on medication when Olson interviewed her about the alleged transgressions last year.

In their statement, the nuns wrote, It is reprehensible that medical evidence proving these allegations to be completely unfounded and fabricated has been ignored by the Holy See.

Lawsuits

The Carmelite nuns filed their first lawsuit a year ago, alleging that Olson and the diocese engaged in property theft and invasion of privacy, stemming from a visit to the monastery when he interviewed Gerlach.

The suit was dismissed last June when a judge determined the court did not have jurisdiction over church disputes.

In August, the nuns issued a statement defying Olsons authority and prohibited him from coming onto the monastery property. Olson countered with a statement warning the nuns they could be excommunicated if they did not follow his authority.

Then, last month, the sisters learned that the Association of Christ the King was appointed to govern and oversee management of the monastery. They filed a lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order against Olson, the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth and the Association of Christ the King.

A hearing was scheduled for Thursday morning, but the court dismissed the lawsuit at the nuns request.

Matthew Bobo, an attorney representing the nuns, said in an email: The Monastery and the Sisters are no longer in need of the Courts relief as sought in the lawsuit and thus it was no longer necessary to proceed with the litigation. We are confident that the preservation of their corporate governance along with the protection of all their assets are secure from any actions the bishop and/or the Association of Christ the King in the USA might try and take going forward.

The diocese also said in an emailed statement that the diocese was confident that the lawsuit would be dismissed because the court had no jurisdiction over church matters.

Olson said in his statement that he is grateful to Mother Marie of the Incarnate and the Association of Christ the King for taking on the responsibility for the monastery and for the nuns.

This appointment by the Dicastery offers Mother Teresa Agnes the opportunity to seek restoration and recovery to live as a faithful member of the Carmelite Order in accordance with her religious vows but without the burdens of leadership that come with the office of prioress. It will also ensure that all the nuns within the monastery can be heard, rightly cared for and nurtured in their religious life in full communion with the Catholic Church.
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW)  Carry the Load is on its 20,000 mile journey across 48 states, and it is stopping in Wichita on Friday. People of all ages can register for free to walk with the National Relay team or fundraise at carrytheload.org/Memorial-May.

The group is inviting the public to walk with them along their route. They will begin at the Andover Fire Station at 6 a.m., then travel along 13th to Regal Warren East, then leave there at 8 a.m. to walk to Ross Dress for Less on Kellogg.

Carry The Load raises money to help with challenges military, veterans, first responders, and their families face. The non-profits goal this year is $2 million.

The relay will end at the Dallas Memorial March on Memorial Day weekend.

Kansas Highway Patrol fines driver for going over 100 mph

New this year, when people register at www.carrytheload.org, volunteers can download the Good Move app which allows people to use their phones for fundraising progress and health activities such as steps walked on a live leaderboard.

Memorial May unites thousands of people under a common purpose, and its been incredible to see participants honor our fallen heroes together, says Stephen Holley, co-founder, president and CEO of Carry The Load and Veteran U.S. Navy SEAL. Were building on previous years momentum with elements like the Good Move app to deepen personal engagement and help participants strengthen their connections with each other.

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A new type of cat coat color has officially been discovered.

Named salmiak, or salty liquorice, the cats have hair strands that start out black, and become white the further they grown from the follicle.

It turns out the unique color is caused by a recessive genetic mutation, rather than the expression of a gene known to turn cats white.

Youve probably heard of spooky black cats, chaotic orange cats, and distinguished-looking tuxedo cats. If youre really into cats, you might have even lesser-known color variants like seal point and ticked tabby. But theres officially a new cat color in town salmiak, or salty liquorice.

The pretty black, white, and grey shadenamed for a popular snack food in Finland, where this coat color has been making itself knownis thanks to a fur strand that starts off black near the root, but grows whiter and whiter out towards the tip. The coat was first spotted in 2007, and in 2019, it was brought to the attention of a group of cat experts lead by feline geneticist Heidi Anderson. Since then, the group has been trying to figure out exactly what causes this shade to express itself, and recently, they finally figured it out. A paper on the discovery has been published in the journal Animal Genetics.

When youre digging into cat colorsor expressions of genetic traits in general, honestlyyou start with the obvious and work your way out. So, the researchers naturally started by assuming that this new variant was just a fun way for the white-making dilution gene to make itself known.

See, technically speaking, cats only come in two colorsblack and orange. Any other color is either a combination of those two colors, a faded version of one of those colors (which is caused by the dilution gene) or both. So, when experts started seeing salt-and-pepper kitties running around, the natural assumption was that these were an interesting new expression of the dilution gene coming into play. Add a little more white than usual to your standard black cat, and you get salty liquorice.

But after digging through all the known genetic variations that control the expression of that dilution gene in coat color, the team came up empty. So, they took the next stepsequencing the entire genome of two of these special felines and digging through the whole mess of genetic data to find what was causing these new coats to appear.

It turns out that the answer was in what wasnt there. There was a huge chunk of sequence missing downstream from the KIT gene, Anderson told New Scientist, referencing a gene known to affect white patterns in the coats of animals. And these cats were just missing a piece of DNA right nearby.

After testing 181 cats to make sure they knew what they were seeing, the team was able to confirm that the missing sequence was in fact responsible for the salmiak coat color. And the mutation was recessivethe cat would only express this color if it inherited the mutation from both parents, which explains why this coloration isnt a common one.

Now that theyve solved the mystery, the team is happy to sit back and admire their pretty kitties along with the rest of the world. These coats have aroused a lot of admiration for years, Anderson told New Scientist. Its really exciting that we now have some genetic explanation for it.

But theyre not just putting their feet up. According to a blog post written by Anderson, the solving of this puzzle both enriches our understanding of feline coat color genetics and could be valuable for breeding efforts, potentially contributing to the preservation of this trait in our feline companions.



Hopefully, well continue to see these fancy felines for years to come.

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PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  The Knights of Columbus Petersburg Council 649 were granted their permit to host a Memorial Day Mass service after being denied last year.

Last year their permit was denied, citing a Biden administration National Park Service policy memorandum that was interpreted to prohibit religious services on any Park Service cemetery grounds.

Following a lawsuit against the National Park Service, Attorney General Jason Miyares gave an amicus brief in support of the Knights of Columbus. The lawsuit was dismissed after an agreement was made.

Miyares gave a statement on Thursday in response to the change:

Im pleased that the Petersburg Knights of Columbus was granted access to observe Memorial Day and gather to pray and mourn the loss of fallen military personnel. The First Amendment very clearly allows religious and non-religious groups to hold these types of gatherings on government grounds. Its shameful and un-American that they were denied in the first place.

Check with WAVY.com for updates

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CBS Claims First Amendment Allows It To Select Writers Best Suited For Its Programs In Discrimination Lawsuit Response

CBS and Paramount Global have filed a response to a discrimination lawsuit by a writer who claimed he wasnt hired because he was a straight, white man.

Brian Beneker filed his suit in March, complaining that he was not hired as a staff writer for the series SEAL Team solely for reason of his race, sex, and/or sexual orientation.

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Defendants failed to hire or promote Mr. Beneker due to his race, sex, and heterosexuality, the complaint from longtime SEAL Team script coordinator and freelance scribe Beneker read.

Beneker said in the complaint that he suffered by not being part of the favored hiring groups; that is, they were nonwhite, LGBTQ, or female, and the illegal policy of increasing diversity, equity and inclusion measures.

This balancing policy has created a situation where heterosexual, white men need extra qualifications (including military experience or previous writing credits) to be hired as staff writers when compared to their nonwhite, LGBTQ, or female peers, who require no such extra qualifications, the filing added.

CBS responded today and asked for a quick dismissal.

CBS has a constitutional right under the First Amendment to select the writers whose work shapes CBSs artistic enterprise, the motion filed today read. CBS also asserted that aspects of Benekers complaint are time-barred and fail to state a claim on which relief can be granted.

The First Amendment bars Benekers claims in full. The First Amendment embodies a core principle of speakers autonomy that bars the government from dictating to expressive enterprises like CBS what to say and how to say it. It therefore displaces applications of statutes, including anti-discrimination laws, that would force an expressive enterprise to compromise its own message.

Holding CBS liable for not hiring him would prevent CBS from hiring the storytellers whom CBS believes are best suited to tell the stories CBS wants to produce and broadcast. Granting relief to Beneker would impair CBSs ability to speak on its own terms.

The request for a dismissal will be heard on July 15 in Central District Court in Los Angeles.

Read the complete legal documents here.

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A line of Holstein dairy cows feed through a fence at a dairy farm in Idaho on March 11, 2009. As of April 11, 2024, a strain of the highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, that has killed millions of wild birds in recent years has been found in at least 24 dairy cow herds in eight U.S. states: Texas, Kansas, New Mexico, Ohio, Idaho, Michigan and North Carolina and South Dakota. | Charlie Litchfield

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Friday that despite current low risk to humans from avian flu, the agency plans to boost surveillance and prepare for the possibility that could change.

In a release emailed to media Friday, the CDC said that A(H5N1) viruses dont have the ability to easily spread to and between people. But the agency notes that if the virus mutates in a way that allows it to more easily infect people or spread between them, that risk assessment would rise  and so would risk of a pandemic.

The CDC says comprehensive global monitoring and investigation of every case in humans is essential to prepare for any developments that increase the risk to human health.

To do that, the agency said it will enhance influenza surveillance through spring and summer. Those efforts include increasing the number of influenza A-positive test specimens available for further testing; continuing surveillance for laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations and encouraging clinicians to consider influenza A(H5N1) when evaluating patients who present with conjunctivitis or respiratory illness following a relevant exposure, such as attending an agricultural fair.

Although bird flu has been found in wild birds and chickens for some time  and a number of mammals from bears to mountain lions have been sickened and in some cases died nationwide  the concern now is focused on dairy cattle herds, due to the recent multi-state outbreak.

In both cases where a human got confirmed bird flu in the U.S. this year, those who were infected worked with dairy cattle and the infection showed up as pink eye with mild symptoms. Others have not been that fortunate. The World Health Organization has said that just over half of people infected with bird flu died, while many more got sick.

The CDC said as part of its beefed-up surveillance it is also evaluating the lab tests now available, as well as vaccines and antiviral treatments. The agency said its supporting states as they monitor for infections.

Food surveillance

According to the CDC, those exposed to infected animals or materials that might be contaminated, including by drinking raw cow milk are at greater risk and should take precautions. Those steps include wearing personal protective equipment, self-monitoring for signs of illness and seeking both medical testing for influenza and care quickly if the virus is detected.

Theyve also been watching the food supply. The virus was found in raw milk from the infected dairy herds, though health officials say pasteurization kills it. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says cooking hamburger to recommended temperatures makes meat safe, too.

Doing enough?

Sen. Mitt Romney is among those whove suggested that the federal government needs to do more to protect people from the risks posed by avian influenza. As Deseret News earlier reported, I am alarmed by reports about the rapid spread of the bird flu virus (H5N1), and concerned that your agencies are not moving quickly enough to understand and contain the outbreak, the Utah Republican said in a letter to the heads of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, USDA and CDC in early May.

It is critical that you work swiftly to get ahead of this emerging situation and reassure the American public that they  and our food supply  remain safe, Romney wrote. Given your agencies recent experience with the COVID-19 pandemic and baby formula shortage, I am concerned that once again our federal government and its interagency process appears to be caught flat-footed.

Wrote Romney, who is not seeking reelection, It is essential that you move to fill the existing gaps in our public health knowledge by conducting sound science and quickly disseminating accurate information. He asked for a response to questions about the outbreak, including whether there are federal programs, like the CDCs National Wastewater Surveillance System used to monitor COVID-19, that can also monitor for bird flu.

Surveillance challenges

In a report issued Friday, the CDC said part of the plan to contain any spread among humans, should it occur, hinges on monitoring workers who are exposed to infected herds or flocks or otherwise come in contact with infected animals or what they leave behind. The federal agencies working on this are using what they call a One Health approach, including monitoring animal exposure. One of the challenges is figuring out exposure periods. The report said that with poultry, its pretty simple. Many of the chickens die, but it also creates a finite 10-day monitoring period after exposure to see if the workers get sick.

With cattle, the illness can last two to four weeks, but how long infectious virus shedding occurs is not known. Further complicating things, some cows have had the illness when tested but have no symptoms, so workers might not know they were exposed. And the report notes the recent testing that found viral fragments in about 1 in 5 retail milk samples nationwide suggests that A(H5N1) virus infections of cattle might be widespread. Therefore monitoring of exposed or potentially exposed persons and animals might be protracted and resource-intensive.

The report concluded, A coordinated and comprehensive One Health response to this ongoing outbreak of A(H5N1) virus infections in dairy cows, poultry, and other animals is needed to identify and prepare for any developments that indicate an increase in the risk to public health.
The old Republican Party is dead. And no state is more responsible for ushering it to its grave than Florida.

From Florida man Donald Trumps presidential nomination comeback to Sen. Rick Scotts just-announced dark horse bid for Senate GOP leader, Florida politicians are leading the charge to completely rid the GOP of its pre-Trump vestiges of establishment Republicans. And the state under Gov. Ron DeSantis has served as a blueprint for the new form of pugilistic Republican governance, from attacking woke corporations to outlandish stunts on immigration.

California was the launch pad for the Republican Party in the Nixon and Reagan eras, followed by Texas in the age of the Bushes and Tom DeLay. But now, Florida is shaping up to be the dominant force not only in the Republican Party, but in the nation's politics more broadly for the foreseeable future.

Florida is having its day, and its about time, said former Sen. George LeMieux (R-Fla.). Florida is coming into its own.

Trump is considering Sen. Marco Rubio and Rep. Byron Donalds, both of Florida, as possible running mates. Even after losing the GOP nomination, DeSantis remains one of the most influential conservative governors in the U.S. whos made it clear his quest for the presidency isnt over. And it was one of the most prolific rabble-rousers in the House, Rep. Matt Gaetz, who led the ouster of then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy last year.

Florida  once viewed as the biggest battleground state in the nation  started its transformation to conservative epicenter during Trumps presidency and especially the coronavirus pandemic. Trump made the Sunshine State his residency midway through his presidency and stayed there after leaving the White House. DeSantis hailed the state as a conservative bastion free from lockdowns, mandates and the liberal ideology that he said permeated businesses and schools.



It drew a surge in new residents who registered Republican, as well as conservative commentators, TV hosts, authors and radio hosts  DeSantis guest hosted new Florida resident Sean Hannitys radio show on Wednesday. Thats not even counting the pilgrimages Republicans make to appease Trump at his Mar-a-Lago club.

For all my life we were always also-rans, said Brian Ballard, a prominent national Republican fundraiser and lobbyist from Florida who is close to the former president.

Ballard argues a handful of Floridians on both sides of the aisle already hold prominent positions in Washington. But he concedes this years election could expand that influence. This election could make Florida even more relevant and important on a national scene, he said.

LeMieux, the former senator, said the states economic boom and surge in residents helped its image evolve.

It used to be all about Florida man and jokes about Florida, LeMieux said. You dont hear that as much anymore. You hear about Ken Griffin moving Citadel to Miami and Jeff Bezos moving back home to Florida.  You hear a lot now about the Florida success story.

Amid all the changes happening in the state, Republicans down-ballot have been able to gain a foothold in Floridas elevated profile, one that is more conservative and more outspoken, said former Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-Fla.).

They are just riding the wave, he said. They are benefiting from all the attention, the political support that comes with it, the notoriety in conservative media.

A lineup of Floridians in the upper echelons of politics would help shed the Florida curse that has dogged the states reputation. Out of Americas 10 largest states, Florida is the only one that has failed to send anyone to the White House. Its pols have never held the top leadership jobs in Congress. They even hold no leadership posts when drilling down to House committees.

"We're one of the biggest delegations, so I think that the fact that we don't [have someone in leadership] is pretty alarming," said Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.). "I'd say though, we have the talent."

To Democrats, Floridas image is very different. It now serves as a right-wing hellscape and foil to criticize ahead of the November election. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have both used the state to rail against abortion bans, too-loose gun laws and anti-LGBTQ+ policies. Florida Democrats continue to insist that the state isnt as red as it appears on paper, a claim that will be tested in the forthcoming elections.

We as Florida Democrats know this is ground zero for extremism, said Nikki Fried, the chair of the Florida Democratic Party. It makes logical sense that they would want to take this to the national stage, which is why we are working hard to make sure what happened here doesnt happen in the rest of the country.



There is a bit of irony, however, that the ascendancy of Florida is happening now.

Scott was part of the tea party movement that helped upend GOP politics back in 2010 when he took out an establishment-backed candidate for governor.

But DeSantis  who narrowly won his first run for governor in 2018  was the first politician to demonstrate how red the state could turn. In the run-up to his presidential campaign, DeSantis wrote a book that was part memoir, part policy briefing paper that he subtitled, Floridas Blueprint for Americas Revival. But even as that message did not appeal to far-flung early-voting states, DeSantis Florida has continued to be the leading policy laboratory for conservative causes.

As DeSantis remains in Tallahassee, however, it is other Republicans from the state  many of whom backed Trump over DeSantis  who could be primed to ascend to other plum positions. Theres speculation that Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, a Miami Republican, could be a high-ranking committee chair in the next Congress.

If youre looking for someone in a leadership lane, being from Florida has an advantage, said David Johnson, a Florida-based Republican campaign consultant. Voters are looking at Florida differently when it comes to conservative credentials.  They will use the word freedom, but its really the assertion of individual rights and getting government out of your life that hits at the core of the Republican spirit.

This isnt the first time that Americas third-largest state seemed positioned for national influence. It came close in 2016, when Rubio and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush both tried  and failed  to win the Republican presidential nomination. Bush came into the race as a heavy favorite in the polls and among the donor class, and Rubio was viewed as a rising star. Neither was prepared to be obliterated by then-Manhattanite Trump.

I would have to think the odds are high that someone is going to advance into a position of leadership, Johnson said. Is it all the way to the White House? I dont know. There is always somebody ready to come down their own golden escalator.

Mia McCarthy contributed to this report.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. ITOCHU Corporation will begin offering virtual Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) services for long-term environmental value through renewable energy to Google, Inc., via Clean Energy Connect Co., Ltd., an ITOCHU portfolio company, Trend reports with reference to the company.

In response to the increasing demand for renewable energy driven by generative AI and data center operations, ITOCHU invested in Clean Energy Connect (CEC) in November 2021. CEC currently develops and owns 1,200 non-FIT low-voltage solar power plants with a total capacity of over 100 MW, providing long-term power and environmental benefits to customers.

CEC has now signed a virtual PPA agreement with Google, with services set to commence in 2024. By 2026, approximately 72 MW (about 800 plants) of dedicated solar power capacity will be developed for Google.

ITOCHU aims to support CEC's goal of introducing around 5,000 solar power plants with additionality in Japan by FY2025, achieving a cumulative total output of 500 MW through new customer development and power management services utilizing power trading capabilities.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
A judge on Friday dismissed as untimely a Republican challenge to the Centre County board of elections decision to count some improperly dated mail-in ballots.

Centre County Judge Julia Rater dismissed the case with prejudice on procedural grounds, finding that county Republican Committee Chair Michelle Schellbergs appeal was filed at least five days late.

Rater did not address the merits of the appeal, raising the likelihood of a similar challenge after what is expected to be a tightly contested presidential race in November.

Attorney Louis Glantz said he was disappointed to an extent, but added that he understood her ruling. He does not expect to appeal. Centre County Solicitor Betsy Dupuis said she was pleased with the outcome of the case and that the court followed the law.

We know the boards actions can be challenged, but only within the strict timelines provided in the Election Code, Dupuis said. Without the timelines in the Election Code, the board and really the state cant carry out its duties to carry on an election.

She said the boards process to canvass mail-in ballots will likely remain the same, but they will probably look at the issue more closely in the fall. The elections board is scheduled to meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday to certify the results.

The fact that a date was causing so much anxiety is trivial, Centre County Democratic Committee Chair Margie Swoboda said. Even the IRS lets you make corrections. Voting is sacred. Every single person should be able to vote. Mail-in ballots are the same as voting in person.

I also found it ironic that the GOP based their lawsuit on dates, but yet missed two very important dates.

Centre County is the only county in the state that has not yet certified any of its results from the primary election, a process that was supposed to be completed by May 13. It has also held up the certification of statewide primary elections.

That prompted the states elections office to urge Rater to dismiss the appeal so it could conclude the 2024 primary.

We are pleased with the result, the Pennsylvania Department of State wrote in a statement. As stated in the Secretarys amicus brief, it is vital for courts to act quickly in dismissing untimely elections-related appeals so that County Boards of Election and the Secretary can timely certify election results.

The 12-page ruling marked a win for the countys elections board but did not explicitly confirm the board correctly decided to count the ballots. The GOP desire for the board to comply with the states election laws is certainly understood by this Court, Rater wrote.

Schellbergs appeal argued the board improperly counted 95 mail-in ballots with date errors. It did not allege fraud or claim the votes would change the primarys outcome.

Instead, Glantz said it was a matter of precedent that could make a big difference in the general election. Dupuis said the appeal was nothing more than an attempt to delay certification of the election and a way to hamstring Centre County voters.

The decision by the elections board  made up of the countys three commissioners, two Democrats and one Republican  was unanimous.

A federal appeals court panel found in March that a requirement for Pennsylvania voters to put accurate handwritten dates on the outside envelopes of their mail-in ballots does not run afoul of a civil rights law.

A divided 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled to uphold enforcement of the required date on return envelopes, a technical mandate that caused thousands of votes to be declared invalid in the 2022 election.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania, which helped represent groups and voters who challenged the date mandate, told the Associated Press the ruling could mean thousands of votes wont be counted over what it believes is a meaningless error.

In Pennsylvania, Democrats have been far more likely to vote by mail than Republicans under an expansion of mail-in ballots enacted in 2019.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA)  The Champaign Police Department is reminding home and business owners with burglary alarms to register them with the city, as required by city code.

Alarm systems or equipment that is designed to provide an audible, mechanical or electrical signal of a disturbance, are required to have a permit and be registered with the City of Champaign, with renewal letters sent every year. The city works with a third party vendor  PMAM Corporation  to manage permits and false alarm tracking.

Click It or Ticket: Illinois police stepping up Memorial Day patrols

Officials said false alarms make up 3.5% of the CPDs total service calls, and they can be costly and hazardous to the city. Thy can divert police away from proactive crime prevention efforts and delay responses to actual emergencies.

People can register or reregister their alarms online, by calling 888-408-9026 or mailing a check to the City of Champaign Alarm Program at P.O. Box 142375 in Irving, Texas, 75014.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
Comedian Dave Chappelle accused Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip during his performance in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday.

Israel launched its war on Hamas after the groups Oct. 7 attack more than seven months ago, and has destroyed Gazas cities and killed more than 30,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians. Chappelle said Gaza is experiencing genocide, according to The Associated Press.

Dave Chappelle poses in the press room with the best comedy album award for The Age of Spin and Deep in the Heart of Texas at the 60th annual Grammy Awards in New York, Jan. 28, 2018. (Charles Sykes, Invision via Associated Press file)

He added that Americans should be more involved in curbing the rise of antisemitism in the U.S. so Jews would feel safer and not have to rely on Israel.

His Thursday remarks in the UAEs capital of Abu Dhabi come as Israel has faced increased criticism over its military campaign in Gaza.

Hamass Oct. 7 attack killed about 1,200 Israelis, and the Palestinian militant group took about 250 hostages  about half who have not been returned.

The Israel-Hamas war has prompted pro-Palestinian rallies throughout the Middle East, although free expression has been tightly controlled in the UAE, the AP noted.

The crowd in the Etihad Arena on Thursday cheered when a woman screamed Free Palestine, according to AP.

Some cheers were also heard when the longtime comedian discussed the 2024 U.S. presidential election, particularly when he mentioned former President Trump, the presumptive GOP nominee. When invoking President Bidens name, the crowd booed.

Chappelle also made a quip about the UAEs widespread surveillance network and about how difficult is it to be gay in the country, where homosexuality is illegal, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The UAE has criticized Israels handling of its operations in the Gaza Strip while also attempting to maintain diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A Chicago man pleaded guilty to cyberstalking, sextortion and stealing multiple identities, including one instance in which he victimized an Ohio State student.

According to a U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of Ohio release, Omoruyi Uwadiae, of Chicago, targeted dozens of victims in multiple states, obtaining sexually explicit content of them, then using it to threaten them.

Uwadiae, 28, admitted in plea documents that he would threaten to distribute the explicit material widely on the internet, specifically to the victims friends, family members and employers. He would demand money from the victims, that they meet him to have sex, or make them say damaging statements publicly.

Columbus man caught on video attacking softball umpire arrested 13 months later

On multiple occasions, the U.S. Attorneys Office said Uwadiae carried out his threats by distributing videos and photos and posting them online. In some cases, the victims had not publicly disclosed their sexual orientation, and Uwadiaes actions revealed them against their wishes. The defendant also used the victims identifications to create fake accounts on social media and post personal information about the victims online.

The release stated that Uwadiae targeted young gay men on the app Grindr and other online sites. There, he would obtain sexually explicit material and use it to extort money in exchange for taking down images he posted to Male General, a blog where people can post images on message boards.

Among the victims was a student from Ohio State, who communicated with Uwadiae on Grindr. Uwadiae gave the victim an ultimatum  pay $200 or have sex with him. When the OSU student refused, Uwadiae created a fake social media account, posted real images he obtained from the victim and stated, this guy is gay, see pics for evidence.

Super Size Me filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, who had ties to Columbus, dies at 53

Uwadiae was charged in the Southern District of Ohio in April by a bill of information. On Wednesday he pleaded guilty to 22 total counts including the following:

Cyberstalking  eight counts, punishable by up to five years in prison

Making interstate communications  seven counts, up to two years

Unlawfully using means of identification  seven counts, up to five years

A sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS)  A Chicago man was sentenced to prison for federal drug crimes in Raleigh County.

On Friday, May 24, 2024, 36-year-old Rory Divaughn Spells, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 11 years and seven months in prison, followed by three years of parole, for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and a quantity of methamphetamine.

Tazewell County man charged with multiple felonies after hit-and-run in Richlands

According to statements made in court, members of law enforcement carried out a search warrant on September 28, 2022 at a house near the Beckley area of Raleigh County. During the search, officers found $8,245, quantities of fentanyl, and a substance that contained methamphetamine.

Spells acknowledged that he was mixing and getting the fentanyl ready for distribution in the kitchen of the house that was searched as a part of the search warrant. He also revealed that the money was from prior drug trafficking activity.

Fayette County man sentenced for gun charge

34-year-old Lorenzo B. Herbert, of Beckley, was sentenced on March 14, 2024. He was sentenced to ten years in prison, followed by four years of parole. Herbert was Spells co-defendant, and pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine.

The announcement was made by United States Attorney will Thompson, who thanked the the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the Chicago Police Department, FBI Chicago, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) for their work on the investigation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
Katelyn Medeiros already leads the Office of the Child Advocate. Her post may soon be a permanent one. She says her offices priorities havent changed either. I believe that our office has been and will continue to fulfill and uphold the mission to serve the best interests of children, she said after a Senate Judiciary hearing on May 23, 2024. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)

Maybe its counterintuitive to testify on behalf of the agency charged with keeping tabs on your employer. But thats what Matthew Gunnip  a caseworker for the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) and president of its union, SEIU Local 580  did at a Thursday evening hearing of the Senate Committee on Judiciary.

Gunnip praised the Office of the Child Advocate for its work in protecting the rights of children under DCYF care, highlighting the offices work investigating abusive practices at St. Marys Home for Children in North Providence, a DCYF contractor.

During that St. Marys investigation, theyre the ones witnessing the videos, Gunnip told senators. Theyre the ones digging through these documents, reading and reading and reading. I can only imagine working at [that] office, like the trauma secondary trauma [that] comes from getting into those details, and then having to do a 100-page report.

The union man was one of numerous colleagues, friends and family who showed up to testify in support of the oversight offices leader, Katelyn Medeiros, who has been nominated for its next permanent leader after serving as acting child advocate since July 2022.

It turns out the committee was supportive too, and voted unanimously to affirm Gov. Dan McKees nomination of Medeiros. The nomination is now scheduled for a Senate floor vote on Thursday, May 30. If approved, Medeiros will serve a five-year term that expires in May 2029.

After the hearing, Medeiros said she was humbled by the outpouring of support from her offices colleagues and DCYF.

We really have the right mindset and focus on collaboration to get the necessary change that we need, she said.

The child advocate is the states lead attorney and ombudsman for issues related to child welfare in Rhode Island including foster care, child protective services and an assortment of behavioral health services. State law empowers the advocate to act on behalf of what are likely the states most vulnerable children and adolescents through legal action, advocacy and independent investigation into DCYF practices and placements.

Medeiros was named OCAs acting director  one of many temporary leaders in the McKee administration  when predecessor Jennifer Griffith left for medical reasons nearly two years ago. Griffith eventually left her post in July 2023 for a new gig with the Office of the Secretary of State. Medeiros began working at the child advocates office in 2012 as an intern.

Destined to work in this field

Kathryn R. Cortes has worked at the Office of the Child Advocate even longer: 17 years. She remembers sharing her caseload and experiences with a still-fledgling Medeiros upon her arrival to the office in 2012. Cortes told the committee that Medeiros nomination was not only judicious  it may even be fate.

It was immediately evident she was destined to work in this field and be a strong advocate for the states most vulnerable children, Cortes said.

Medeiros also identified her internship as a formative one: I knew this was the work I wanted to dedicate my legal career to.

Former DCYF administrator Ken Fandetti said he was familiar with the Office of the Child Advocate since its creation in 1979. Hes also worked with the child advocates office on fatality review panels, and has seen DCYF from perspectives both inside and out.

I suppose the highest praise I could give Katelyn is when the going gets tough, and there are difficult decisions to be made, she will do the right thing  no matter what the consequences are for her professionally or personally, Fandetti said to the committee.

Medeiros seemed to agree in her own testimony: I was able to learn a lot about my ability to be collaborative but know that I am not afraid to take a difficult stance if its necessary to protect the children that we serve.

Still, Medeiros emphasized collaboration in her own testimony, and noted that recurrent issues in the states child welfare system cant be solved by her office alone. She noted a positive relationship with DCYF director Ashley Deckert.

I really appreciate the direction in the vision of director Deckert, and I really do have a good working relationship, which I think is going to be important in really driving systemic reform forward, Medeiros said. Its not a small undertaking, and its not going to happen overnight.

We really have the right mindset and focus on collaboration to get the necessary change that we need.

 Katelyn Medeiros, acting child advocate and Gov. Dan McKees nominee for the permanent job

While Medeiros has spent years in Rhode Island government, and received her law degree from Roger Williams University, Deckert assumed her leadership role at DCYF in 2023, after the departure of former acting director Kevin Aucoin.

Medeiros also pointed to the less-publicized work of her office, like ensuring foster kids can recover from childhood trauma  something reflected in high school graduation rates.

Youth experiencing the child welfare system are graduating at a rate significantly lower than their peers, Medeiros told the Judiciary Committee, a datapoint backed up by a recent report from KIDS COUNT. This illustrates a desperate need for improvements so we can ensure the success of our youth and pave the way for bright futures. One of my main priorities will be the improvement of educational outcomes for these youth.

I am hopeful that we are going to see an improvement at this facility, Katelyn Medeiros told senators about St. Marys Home for Children in North Providence, seen here in April 2024. But right now, Ill say my sole focus is the safety and well being of the children that are still placed there. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)

After the hearing, Medeiros told Rhode Island Current her offices mission hasnt changed, media attention or not.

I believe that our office has been and will continue to fulfill and uphold the mission to serve the best interests of children, she said. I know some other matters are more publicized as of late. I think the issues remain the same, and my sole focus is serving the best interests of kids and ensuring that we make the necessary change so they can have the positive outcomes they deserve.

Senators still wanted to talk about the ongoing troubles at St. Marys Home and U.S. Attorney Zachary Cunhas recent investigation of DCYF regarding over-hospitalization of children at Bradley Hospital.

The committees first questions came from Sen. Mark McKenney, a Warwick Democrat, who asked about St. Marys Home.

Do you feel optimistic? Tell me you do, McKenney said.

Thats a big question, senator, Medeiros said and smiled. But she broke it down for McKenney, and pointed to the states need for an appropriate continuum of care, something which may be helped by recent legislation that would require a comprehensive needs assessment of our entire system to truly get at the issue of what is it that we need.

I do think that we can get there. I have to remain hopeful. Otherwise, Id be crazy to be sitting here before you, Medeiros said. But I think we have a lot of work to do and really need to seriously look at restructuring our service array and our continuum, and also ensuring that thats appropriately funded.

That answer satisfied McKenney: I think youre gonna find that the committees behind you. I think youll probably find the Senate is behind you.

The senator paused.

I think the state of Rhode Island is behind you, McKenney continued. Because if we dont get this right, I dont even want to think about the consequences. If we do get this right, I think it could be historic, if we could finally get the system straightened out.

The post Child Advocate nominee praised for commitment to improving the child welfare system appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
The Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command carried out simulated missile strikes against Taiwan on Friday. It also sent multiple batches of fighters equipped with live ammunition and bombers toward strike positions near a city on the island nation's southeastern coast, official Chinese state media reported .

Under the cover of the fighter formations, several bombers left the island chain and established multiple strike positions off the coast of Taitung, cooperating with naval ship formations and mobile shore missiles, the official Chinese CCTV news reported . Fire units, etc., conduct simulated strikes on important targets.

The planned two-day  punishment  exercise called Joint Sword-2024A (JS-24A) began on Thursday and saw Chinas military surround the breakaway province. It came in response to the inauguration on Monday of newly elected, independence-minded President Lai Ching Te. You can read more about JS-24A in our initial reporting here .

Chinas Defense Ministry (MoD) released new video on Friday showing its aircraft, ships and ground-based forces in action during the exercise. The major difference in imagery MoD provided Friday was video of Chinese H-6 bombers . It also contained imagery of weapons also released a day earlier, including J-16 Flanker fighters , a DF-15 short-range ballistic missile , and PHL-16 long-range rocket artillery systems .

Friday's video showed the H-6s had cruise missiles under their wings while the J-16s were carrying air-to-air missiles.

Taiwans military reported that a total of 62 PLA aircraft and a mix of 27 People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels were operating around the main island as of 9:40 p.m. Friday local time, according to the English-language TaiwanPlus news outlet . The War Zone could not independently verify that figure and the MND has not released its tally.

That represents a plus-up from Thursday, when at least 49 Chinese aircraft, including Su-30 and J-16s , and KJ-500 airborne early warning and control planes as well as warships and mainland forces took part in the exercise launch. Taiwanese officials said that 19 PLA Navy ships and at least another seven China Coast Guard vessels were still surrounding the island as of 6 a.m. local time Thursday, but did not identify their types.

As we noted in our initial story, emerging imagery on Thursday showed PLAN Type 052D destroyers and Type 054A frigates , as well as at least one Type 022 catamaran missile boat participating in Joint Sword-2024A. Interestingly, the Type 022 was observed operating together with Coast Guard ships.

A People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Type 022 Houbei class fast attack missile catamaran. (PLAN)

The Chinese MoD lambasted Taiwanese President Lai for pushing Taiwan into what it called a dangerous situation of war.

Those who play with fire will burn themselves, Chinese MoD spokesperson Wu Qian told reporters. Whenever Taiwan independence (forces) provoke us, we will push our countermeasures forward until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved.

The Taiwanese (Republic of China, or ROC) Ministry of National Defense (MND) on Friday remained resolute in the face of the Chinese aggression.

MND also released video on Friday showing what it says was part of their response to JS-24A. It included ROC Air Force (ROCAF) F-16s monitoring PLAN warships taking part in the exercise. Interestingly, the wingtip AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missile seen on one fighter appears to be inert.

The War Zone could not independently verify when those aircraft were launched. It could have been stock footage, we just dont know for sure.

In addition, Taiwan released images of its F-16s with live missiles.

ROCAF also released video of what is claimed to be the first footage taken from its Vipers' Sniper pods. It showed the fighter monitoring an H-6 bomber and J-16 fighter.

Additional video emerged on social media Thursday purporting to show several ROC Navy vessels making an emergency departure in reaction to JS-24A. The War Zone could not independently verify when that took place.

Taiwan also announced on Thursday that it was deploying Hsiung Feng III supersonic anti-ship missile systems as well as unspecified ground-based antiaircraft systems to counter any potential Chinese threat.

U.S. and Taiwanese authorities have warned in recent years that the PLA could feel confident enough to launch an intervention against the island by 2027 , if not earlier . Last month, the U.S. and Taiwan navies conducted joint drills in the Pacific in April that officially, did not take place, Reuters reported , citing four people briefed on the matter. The drills occurred in the western Pacific.

A Defense Department (DoD) official gave The War Zone the following statement about the Pentagons position on the exercise:

We have noted with concern reports of the People's Liberation Army joint military drills in the Taiwan Strait and around Taiwan. We are monitoring very closely.

We strongly urge Beijing to act with restraint and reiterate that the PRC should not use Taiwan's political transition  part of a normal, routine democratic process  as a pretext or excuse for provocative or coercive measures.

The PRC's actions are reckless, risk escalation, and erode longstanding norms that have maintained regional peace and stability for decades.

We are confident in our current force posture and operations in the region to ensure peace and stability and to meet our national security commitments.

As you know, we dont discuss future operations.

The U.S. has long maintained a policy of  strategic ambiguity  about the potential defense of Taiwan, neither confirming nor denying it would step in militarily to help Taipei fend off a Chinese attack. However, President Joe Biden has muddied those waters, publicly avowing that the U.S would intervene to support Taiwan. His officials have been left scrambling to explain that strategic ambiguity remains on the table. You can see Biden talk about U.S. troops defending Taiwan in this video below.

It is unclear what, if any actions, the Pentagon is taking in response to JS-24A. A number of U.S. assets have recently arrived in the Pacific, which military officials have said were routine and not connected to the ongoing exercise.

The Air Force announced that B-1 Lancers assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, arrived at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam on Thursday. The Bones were sent to Guam, about 1,700 miles southeast of Taiwan, in support of a routine Bomber Task Force deployment, the Air Force said in its media release .

Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan, is currently in the Philippine Sea . In addition, the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group entered the South China Sea January 23 to conduct routine operations, the Navy said in a release .

Sailors stand by to receive pallets on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), during a vertical replenishment-at-sea with Military Sealift Command dry cargo ship, USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10), in the Philippine Sea, May 23. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kazia Ream)

While this latest Chinese drill has so far gone off without any kinetic interaction, the Xi government continues to back its desire to take back Taiwan with displays of military might. Whether China would actually decide to attack is unknown. It should be noted though that Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine was launched after a large-scale military exercise, and similar questions were raised at the time. As we have noted repeatedly over the years, for Taiwan and prior to the invasion of Ukraine, it will all be an exercise, one of a seemingly endless number of increasingly complex drills, until it isn't.

Reporters Joseph Trevithick and Thomas Newdick contributed to this report.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
China stages mock missile strikes on Taiwan, jets with live missiles used in drills

By Bernard Orr and Yimou Lee

BEIJING/TAIPEI (Reuters) -China staged mock missile strikes and dispatched fighter jets carrying live missiles along with bombers on Friday, state broadcaster CCTV said, as part of exercises Beijing has said were launched to punish Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te.

The bombers set up several attack formations in waters east of Taiwan, carrying out mock attacks in co-ordination with naval vessels, it added, as China tested its ability to "seize power" and control key areas of Taiwan.

The two days of drills in the Taiwan Strait and around groups of Taiwan-controlled islands near the Chinese coast, which a Taiwanese official said also included the mock bombing of foreign vessels, started just three days after Lai took office on Monday. Taiwan has condemned China's actions.

China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and denounces Lai as a "separatist". It strongly criticised his inauguration speech, in which he urged Beijing to stop its threats and said the two sides of the strait were "not subordinate to each other".

The Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said the exercises, dubbed "Joint Sword - 2024A", were to "test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks and occupy key areas".

"This action is completely reasonable, legal, and necessary to combat the arrogance of 'Taiwan independence' and deter the interference and intervention of external forces," said Wu Qian, a spokesperson of China's defence ministry.

FIRST ISLAND CHAIN

A senior Taiwan security official told Reuters that several Chinese bombers conducted mock attacks on foreign vessels near the eastern end of the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines, practicing how to seize "total control" of areas west of the so-called first island chain.

The first island chain refers to the area that runs from Japan through Taiwan, the Philippines and on to Borneo, enclosing China's coastal seas.

The official, speaking anonymously given the sensitivity of the situation, said several Chinese coastguard boats also conduced "harassment" drills off Taiwan's east coast, including mock inspections of civilian ships.

China's coastguard said it had conducted "law enforcement drills" in waters east of Taiwan on Friday, focused on training on verification and identification, warning and repulsion.

Chinese vessel Nantong carried out combat readiness patrol and practical drill missions in the Taiwan Strait, with Taiwanese ship Zheng He following 0.6 nautical miles behind, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV said.

A public relations officer of the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet said it was paying attention to "all of the activities" in the Indo-Pacific and takes "very seriously" the responsibility to deter aggression in the region.

Taiwan and the United States have no official diplomatic relationship, as Washington formally recognises Beijing, but is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and is the island's most important international backer.

Speaking in Taipei, Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said the island would not succumb to pressure.

"We will not make any concessions because of this Chinese military exercise, because it concerns the development of democracy in Taiwan," he said.

'SACRED WEAPONS'

The Chinese theatre command showed an animated video on Friday on its WeChat social media account of missiles being launched at Taiwan from the ground, air and sea, which then slam into the cities of Taipei, Kaohsiung and Hualien in balls of flame. CCTV later said China staged mock missile attacks on Taiwan using dozens of missiles.

"Sacred weapons to kill independence," read words in red, written in the traditional Chinese characters Taiwan uses, at the end of animation.

Taiwan's armed forces have mobilised to monitor and shadow Chinese forces.

Taiwan's defence ministry on Friday published pictures of F-16s, armed with live missiles, patrolling the skies.

It also showed pictures of Chinese coastguard vessels and Chinese Jiangdao-class corvettes, though it did not say exactly where the images were taken.

The ministry said that as of 6 a.m. (2200 GMT) on Friday, it had detected 49 Chinese military aircraft, 19 navy and seven coastguard ships. Of the aircraft, 28 crossed the strait's median line, which once served as an unofficial barrier though China says it does not recognise it.

The closest Chinese aircraft got to Taiwan's coast was 40 nautical miles (74 km) from the northern city, and navy base, of Keelung, according to a map the ministry provided.

Lai has repeatedly offered talks with China but has been rebuffed. He says only Taiwan's people can decide their future, and rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims.

Taiwan is well-used to China's military threats, and the latest drills have caused no undue alarm on the island, with life carrying on as normal.

Taiwanese media have covered the drills, but also given a lot of time to ongoing drama about contested parliament reforms that have brought thousands of people onto the streets to protest.

On China's highly regulated Weibo social media site, "Eastern Theatre" was the top searched item, with most of the comments supporting the drills. Another hot topic was "the return of Taiwan".

Analysts, regional diplomats and senior Taiwan officials noted the scale of the drills so far were smaller than the similar exercises in 2022 and were widely anticipated by Taiwanese and foreign officials, but they still raised the risk of accidents or miscalculations.

(Reporting by Bernard Orr and Yimou Lee; Writing by Ben Blanchard and Antoni Slodkowski; Editing Gerry Doyle, Michael Perry, Lincoln Feast and Alex Richardson)
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Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, the top Democrat on the House select committee on China, sharply rebuked Chinas recent military drills around Taiwan, accusing Beijing of having a temper tantrum that could touch off a crisis.

Its provocative behavior, its senseless and its dangerous because it could escalate into unintended, catastrophic consequences and they need to stop, Krishnamoorthi told Semafor in an interview Thursday.

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China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, launched two days of military drills surrounding the self-governing island on Thursday, which Beijing described as punishment for separatist acts. The sea and air exercises came days after the inauguration of new Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, who in his inaugural speech called on China to stop its aggressive behavior and vowed that Taiwan would defend itself in the face of the many threats and attempts at infiltration from China.

Krishnamoorthi said that the drills should motivate the US to step up military assistance to Taiwan, which has faced a backlog of US weapons, and that Taiwan should increase investments in its own defense in order to deter China.

There is considerable support for Taiwan in the US Congress; a recent foreign aid package included billions in assistance for Taiwan and other US allies in Asia. Members of both parties have participated in congressional delegations to Taiwan, which have increased in number in recent years.

As China announced the drills on Thursday, a spokesperson for Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs also urged the US to abide by the one China policy and to halt any congressional visits to Taiwan. That followed a report that House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul plans to lead a delegation to Taiwan later this month.

Krishnamoorthi said it reminded him of a message sent by the Chinese government when he and other lawmakers joined then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on a visit to the island in 2022, a trip that caused an extremely negative reaction from Beijing.

Were not going to have the CCP dictate our travels, where we go, what we do, who we meet with, who we talk to, Krishnamoorthi told Semafor, referring to the Chinese Communist Party. They are control freaks and the more that you give into control freaks, the more that they want to control your activities and for that matter your thoughts and your speech.

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The military drills are the most significant China has launched around Taiwan since April 2023, the Guardian writes, noting that the exercises were widely expected following Beijings muted reaction to Lais election.

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China wants its nepo-baby and get-rich-quick influencers gone

China wants its nepo-baby and get-rich-quick influencers gone

China's social media is cracking down on influencers trying to get famous by showing off wealth.

Some of its biggest platforms said they've removed thousands of posts of luxury flaunting.

All of the companies announced bans on the same day, indicating an industry-wide push for reform.

Wealth-flexing for clout is now officially bad behavior in China.

China's biggest social media platforms launched a synchronized crackdown on parading wealth last week, removing thousands of posts and punishing dozens of influencers for promoting "bad values."

It's one of the Chinese internet's most pointed campaigns against "money worship" and flaunting luxury, which Beijing's central government has been ordering companies to regulate.

The platforms that announced disciplinary measures on May 15 included Weibo, Xiaohongshu, and Douyin  China's loose versions of Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Weibo, which has close to 600 million active users, posted the most extensive list of bannable behavior, including:

Displaying luxury cars or expensive houses as a gimmick to market products or build one's reputation.

Uploading pictures of large amounts of cash or people tossing banknotes.

Showing luxury services or goods to exaggerate how one can earn "millions in a month," achieve financial independence or start a lucrative business from scratch.

Hyping up a "second-generation household," a term that typically describes people who enjoy wealth because their parents are rich.

Filming minors using luxury goods to "attract traffic and hype."

Stoking discontent among poorer audiences and emphasizing class discrimination, listed by Weibo as "exaggerating and hyping the struggle of the lower classes to survive."

All three platforms have banned posts and accounts for "money worship" before, but their announcements made in tandem suggest an industry-wide push to clamp down on extravagant wealth.

Xu Qiuying, an editor for the state-owned paper Beijing News, wrote in a commentary that several influencers caught by the ban had been targeted for using displays of wealth as a marketing ploy.

"If the rich simply share their real lives, and their wealth comes from legitimate sources, and they just show off their wealth to satisfy their personal vanity, there is nothing wrong with that," Xu wrote.

Xu claimed that the barred influencers grew their fame by "showing off their wealth" and, in turn, became rich by selling products on livestreams.

"The 'rich' showed off their wealth to get rich," Xu wrote.

The account bans came as China's Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission announced a two-month campaign in April to "rectify the unscrupulous traffic-seeking on personal media."

Authorities said they were concerned by a surge in accounts creating fake personas or misrepresenting their lives to boost their numbers.

That included people who were "showing off wealth, deliberately showing a luxurious life built on money, thereby attracting fans and diverting traffic," the commission said.

All of this ties back to a precedent set by China's leader, Xi Jinping, to promote "common prosperity," or the ideal of providing wealth more equally to all Chinese citizens.

Xi's campaign initially focused on lifting China's vast rural population out of extreme poverty, benchmarked by a minimum salary determined by Beijing. The venture was generally well-received in a China that had turned jaded from widespread corruption and a growing class divide.

More recently, common prosperity has evolved into a crackdown on "excessive wealth," with the central government stepping up regulations on private industry giants and wealthy families.

Beijing seems to have toned down its rhetoric of common prosperity as its economy struggled in the post-COVID era. Still, state media continues to laud the idea as one of the country's foundations.

The campaign may have a long road ahead. In September, the income gap in 2022 between China's richest and poorest urban households was the country's widest since records began in 1985.

The average household income of the richest 20% in urban areas was 6.3 times that of the poorest 20%, per official data.

Read the original article on Business Insider
China's military isn't just putting on a show of force. It's rehearsing for the real deal, an assault on Taiwan.

China says its large-scale exercise surrounding Taiwan is a test of its ability to conduct a real assault.

The two-day drills are a joint force effort, coming directly after the inauguration of Taiwan's new president.

An invasion is just one of the many strategies China can employ to force Taiwan into submission.

China's large-scale military drills around Taiwan aren't just a show of force in response to the remarks of the democratic island's new president. It's also a kind of rehearsal.

China says the joint force live-fire exercise, lasting two days, is a test of its ability to launch a full-scale, lethal assault on Taiwan and ultimately force it to succumb to Beijing's rule.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army exercise "Joint Sword" began Thursday morning, focusing on "joint sea-air combat readiness patrols, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes on key targets," Chinese state media reported.

BBC China Correspondent Stephen McDonell posted a segment from CCTV showing the intended purpose of the simulated airstrikes during the exercise, during which live missiles were used. The report identified potential critical targets as ports and airports, among other points.

Giant fireballs explode into the air following an attack on #Taiwan in this graphic on #China Central Television CCTV which just went to air in a story about the Peoples Liberation Army exercises over the last two days. pic.twitter.com/Z1FdXUvXmN  Stephen McDonell (@StephenMcDonell) May 24, 2024

On Friday, the Chinese military's Eastern Theater Command said that it was continuing the drills to "test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks and occupy key areas."

In other words, China is using these drills to see how its forces would effectively execute an assault against the island of Taiwan in addition to demonstrating to Taiwan that it has the ability to pull off such an operation.

An outdoor screen shows a news coverage of China's military drills around Taiwan, in Beijing on May 23, 2024. JADE GAO/AFP via Getty Images

As China's Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard conduct training operations around Taiwan's main island, as well as offshore islands, Taiwan has been sounding the alarm, sending out its forces to observe the exercises closely for signs of escalation.

Taiwan has scrambled fighter aircraft and put its naval and ground forces, including elements of its missile force, on alert.

Its defense ministry called the drills "irrational provocations and actions that undermine regional peace and stability."

"We stand by with firm will and restraint," the ministry added, saying, "We seek no conflicts, but we will not shy away from one. We have the confidence to safeguard our national security."

While "Joint Sword" isn't the first exercise of this kind, it is the largest in more than a year and comes just days after the inauguration of the island's newest president, the Democratic Progressive Party's Lai Ching-te, who is hated in Beijing for his positions on Taiwan's sovereignty.

Lai's election marked a historic third consecutive term for the DPP, which often takes a stronger stance on cross-strait relations and prioritizes Taiwan's autonomy. Lai has indicated he'll largely continue his predecessor's policies, and he has already agitated the Chinese leaders in Beijing, who perceive Lai's recent rhetoric as fueling pro-independence sentiments. China has said the exercises are intended as "strong punishment."

A screen grab captured from a video shows the Taiwan army conduct military exercise following China's large-scale joint military drill around Taiwan on May 23, 2024. Taiwan's Military News Agency/Anadolu via Getty Images

Beijing has a lot to gain from the military drills, from understanding operation logistics and joint force cooperation to demonstrating military power to attempting to intimidate the people of Taiwan into accepting that unification is inevitable.

Training doesn't necessarily mean an invasion of Taiwan is imminent, but the drills are a stark reminder that China has never taken the use of force off the table with regard to Taiwan.

The use of force against Taiwan could take different forms, from an all-out assault to something like a blockade. The latter could cut Taiwan off from the rest of the world, prevent the US and its allies from coming to the island's aid, and potentially force Taiwan to give in to Beijing's demands.

Strikes on Taiwan's infrastructure, too, could leave its people without clean water or electricity, rapidly degrading the quality of life and potentially the island's will to resist.

But China could also pursue other courses of action. While the US and its allies are actively discussing how to respond to an assault on Taiwan, some experts believe they may be missing more likely scenarios for China to take over Taiwan  some of which are already happening in the form of continuous pressure and coercion.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A pair of Chinese J-16 fighters fly together. Jets of this type took part in the first day of China's Joint Sword-2024A's exercise around Taiwan.

At least 49 Chinese aircraft, including Su-30 and J-16 Flanker fighters , and KJ-500 airborne early warning and control planes , took part in large-scale drills encircling Taiwan. Warships and forces on the mainland also participated in the exercise, which officials in China have described using fiery rhetoric as a "strong punishment" for pro-independence elements on the island and a "serious warning" against outside interference in cross-strait affairs.

China's Eastern Theater Command kicked off the drills , which are set to last two days and are nicknamed Joint Sword-2024A, earlier today. The exercise is widely seen as a response to the inauguration on Monday of Taiwanese President Lai Ching Te. In his inauguration speech, he called "on China to cease their political and military intimidation against Taiwan." Chinese authorities decried Lai's remarks as a "confession of independence." Lai, who also goes by the English first name William, was elected in January and had previously served as Vice President under Taiwan's preceding President Tsai Ing Wen.

As seen in the map below from the Eastern Theater Command, the designated exercise areas surround Taiwan. As part of the drills, Chinese forces are also conducting activities around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, which lie very close to the Chinese mainland, but are under the control of Taiwanese authorities.

A map showing the various Joint Sword-2024A exercise areas. PLA Eastern Theater Command

Joint Sword-2024A is "focusing on such subjects as joint maritime and air combat readiness patrols, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision targeting of key targets," according to a machine translation of a statement from People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy Col. Li Xi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command. "Ships and aircraft arrived at combat patrols near Taiwan Island, and integrated linkage inside and outside the island chain tested the actual joint combat capabilities of the theater forces."

Another map from PLA Eastern Theater Command depicting ships moving toward Taiwan from all sides as part of the Joint Sword-2024A exercise. PLA Eastern Theater Command

The PLA does not look to have released an official list of units or assets taking part in Joint Sword-2024A so far. The Eastern Theater Command did put out a video highlighting what it called

On the air side, "overall 49 PLA aircraft in various types (including SU-30, J-16, KJ-500 etc.) were detected" on the first day of the exercise, according to a social media post from the Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense. Of the 49, "35 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered the north, central and southwest parts of Taiwans ADIZ [Air Defense Identification Zone]."

It is worth noting that Taiwanese authorities had initially said that 42 Chinese military aircraft had conducted sorties around the island as part of Joint Sword-2024A. The exact mix of types remains unclear.

A stock picture of a Chinese Su-30MKK Flanker. Dmitriy Pichugin

A stock picture of a Chinese J-16. Japan Ministry of Defense

A Chinese KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft that Taiwanese forces photographed prior to the Joint Sword-2024A drills. Taiwan Ministry of National Defense

Officials in Taiwan also said earlier in the day that 15 PLA Navy ships and another 16 vessels belonging to the China Coast Guard were participating in the drills, but did not identify their types. Imagery that has emerged so far shows PLAN Type 052D destroyers and Type 054A frigates , as well as at least one Type 022 catamaran missile boat participating in Joint Sword-2024A. Interestingly, the Type 022 was observed operating together with Coast Guard ships.

Details about the land-based components of Joint Sword-2024A are scant.

A map Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense released earlier today showing the position of various air, sea, and what may be ground assets on outlying islands. Taiwan Ministry of National Defense

Today, the PLA's Eastern Theater Command did release promotional poster-like images for what it called examples of "cross-strait lethality." These depicted J-16 and J-20 fighters , the Type 052D destroyer, the Type 071 amphibious warfare ship , what looks to be a DF-15 short-range ballistic missile , and PHL-16 long-range rocket artillery systems . Beyond the J-16 and Type 052D, it's unclear if any of these other systems have yet taken part in Joint Sword-2024A.

The "cross-strait lethality" posters that PLA Eastern Theater Command put out. Top, from right to left: the J-20 stealth fighter, the J-16 fighter, the Type 052D destroyer. Bottom, from right to left: the Type 071 amphibious warfare ship, what looks to be a DF-15 short-range ballistic missile, PHL-16 rocket artillery systems. PLA Eastern Theater Command

Videos have emerged purporting to show Taiwan's Coast Guard threatening to drive Chinese ships out of a particular area to the northwest of the island, but the exact circumstances and whether there was any kind of real altercation are unclear.

Authorities on Taiwan said earlier that they had not seen any indications of the PLA live-firing any weapons as part of the drills so far. The Taiwanese armed forces scrambled its own jets and put other forces on alert in response to the exercise, which it has otherwise been monitoring.

Regardless of the scale and scope of the exerciss so far, or what the exact mix of assets has been, Joint Sword-2024A is clearly intended to be highly provocative show of force. The exercise areas notably overlap to a significant degree with those from large scale drills that followed the visit to the island by then-U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi in 2022, a trip that also drew the fury of Chinese authorities .

The PLA and other arms of the Chinese government have been unusually vocal about their intent in this case, as well.

"This is also a strong punishment for the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces seeking 'independence' and a serious warning against interference and provocation by external forces," PLA Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Col. Li's statement adds .

The government in Beijing views the island of Taiwan and the outlying territories it controls as a rogue province and has long threatened to use any means necessary, including military intervention, to prevent any attempt at formal independence from the mainland.

A machine translation of the release accompanying the "cross-strait lethality" posters shows it includes a call to action that ends with "the weapon pointing at 'Taiwan independence' to kill 'independence' is already in place."

"Taiwan independence forces will be left with their heads broken and blood flowing after colliding against the great trend of China achieving complete unification," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters earlier in the day, according to AFP .

For their part, Taiwanese authorities have been defiant.

"The CCPs [Chinese Communist Party's] military exercises, which highlight its hegemony mindset, have undermined regional peace and stability," a social media post from the Ministry of National Defense, seen below, reads. "The ROC [Republic of China, Taiwan's formal name] Armed Forces stand ready to defend our country. We seek no conflicts, but we will not shy away from one."

"My responsibility is to safeguard the nation and ensure the safety of all citizens," President Lai also said today while meeting with members of the country's 66th Marine Brigade.

This all follows already steadily growing tensions between Beijing and Taipei during Tsai Ing Wen's administration, under which aurthorities in Taiwan openly pursued policities to increase decoupling with the mainland. The response from the PLA has already been increasingly provocative exercises and other developments . The Chinese government also regularly uses its considerable leverage in other forums to try to isolate the island economically and politicially

U.S. and Taiwanese authorities have warned in recent years that the PLA could be in a position where it would feel confident enough to launch an intervention against the island by 2027 , if not earlier .

Whether or not the tenor of the Joint Sword-2024A dramatically escalates during day two remains to be seen. Whatever the case, it is already stoking fears that that a potential Chinese military intervention PLA may be inching closer to becoming a reality.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
Republican state Rep. Nate Schatzline of Fort Worth spoke about the need for churches to influence politics Friday during a panel discussion at the state GOP convention in San Antonio.

Schatzline, a former pastor, is the director of operations for The Justice Reform, an anti-human trafficking organization affiliated with Mercy Culture Church in Fort Worth. He spoke during a discussion called Upholding Our Judeo Christian Heritage and Values, sponsored by the faith-based nonprofit Salt & Light Council of Solana Beach, California.

The local church is the hope of the world, he said. No one is coming to save you. Its not an elected position thats going to bring salvation to our country. It is a revival of the holy spirit that is going to fill us up, turn us around and spark a fire inside of America.

He expressed frustration with conservatives who dont follow Christian values.

Im tired of politicians that scream faith, family and freedom and prostitute the church for a vote and then dont hold our values once they get into office, Schatzline said.

Schatzline was Texas Right to Lifes Pro-Life Standout Freshman of the 88th Legislature. He took aim at his Republican colleagues who worry about the popularity of abortion bans among voters.

I would rather lose every election fighting for the unborn than to answer to God and say, I did not do enough for those that dont answer for themselves, he said.

A 2023 Associated Press poll found a majority of Americans opposed to a total abortion ban.

Schatzline then pivoted to speak on the sexualization and indoctrination of children in public schools and said conservatives must continue to flip those school boards.

Sen. Angela Paxton of McKinney, wife of Attorney General Ken Paxton, said she received a great public education in the Mansfield school district, but supports school choice, reflecting on her time at a private school at which her children attended. She worked more than 20 years as a teacher and counselor.

Im the first educator to be elected in more than two decades, she said. And I think that the Lord sent me here with that background. As an educator, as a school counselor, for such a time as this.

She slammed schools for having sexually explicit material in their libraries, for pushing transgender ideology and for allowing boys in girls locker rooms.

Paxton spoke about abortion as well and tapped into her own experience as someone who was adopted.

Ive been a strong advocate of pro life legislation, Paxton said. My life began as an unexpected pregnancy, and Im so thankful that my birth mother Linda chose life for me.
Rep. Lucy Weber, a Walpole Democrat, persuaded the House to reject an abortion-rights bill she co-sponsored because the Senate dropped the protections and added a requirement that providers keep abortion statistics. (Screenshot)

The House has rejected an effort by the Senate to turn a bill intended to protect abortion rights into one that would instead collect abortion statistics. Opponents cited privacy concerns and displeasure with what they saw as the Senates hijacking of the bill without giving the public a chance to weigh in.

Rep. Lucy Weber, a Walpole Democrat and co-sponsor of the underlying legislation, Senate Bill 461, asked House members Thursday to vote down the version the Senate sent them back.

So why am I standing here opposing a bill of which I was a sponsor? Weber said. Well, strange things happen in the place that we may not mention. And this bill, which was a very different bill at birth, is now completely opposite to its original intention.

The House defeated the bill, 201-164.

New Hampshire is one of fewer than five states that does not collect statistics on abortion, and this is at least the eighth time since 2002 that lawmakers have rejected an effort to change that.

The Senates rewrite of SB 461 would have required abortion providers to tell the state where and when theyve performed abortions; the age and state residence of the patient; and the method they used to end the pregnancy.

Providers would not have been required to report information that would identify patients but nor would they have been prohibited from doing so.

One of the states largest abortion providers, Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, opposed the bill because of its lack of privacy protections and concerns about how the data would be used.

We had significant concerns about this bill and particularly about the possibility of the weaponization of abortion data in a post-Roe world, said Kayla Montgomery, vice president of public affairs for the organization and the Planned Parenthood NH Action Fund. Were glad to see that this bill will not be moving forward this session, and look forward to further educating lawmakers about increased protections for abortion providers and patients.

The post Citing concerns and protocol, House rejects Senates abortion statistics bill appeared first on New Hampshire Bulletin.
The big story: Floridas response to pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses has prompted several civil rights groups to seek an audience with state higher education leaders.

They say they want the schools to do more to protect protesters constitutional rights to free speech and assembly. State officials have said they encourage intellectual freedom and a diversity of ideas, but the groups question whether thats really occurring.

This is a challenging moment for institutions of higher learning, but now is not the time for the forceful suppression of speech; it is an opportunity for meaningful dialogue, the groups said in a letter to chancellor Ray Rodrigues. Read more here.

Hot topics

Board elections: Three Palm Beach County school board incumbents will not seek reelection, the Palm Beach Post reports.

Book challenges: The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression accused the state of Florida of misrepresenting statute relating to library books, leading to an increase in schools removing titles from shelves, the Tallahassee Democrat reports.

Cellphones: A Manatee County private school told students they could carry cellphones, but keep them off and out of sight. That didnt work. So the school banned phones altogether, Bay News 9 reports.

Charter schools: Some Volusia County parents are raising concerns about the management and staff conduct at a local charter school, Space Coast Rocket reports.

Parent communication: The Leon County school district is rolling out a new system to send messages to parents during emergencies, such as the tornadoes it recently experienced, WCTV reports.

School grades: The Sumter County school district is fending off accusations that it improperly has reassigned low-performing students to avoid having their scores affect school grades, WKMG reports. Department of Education officials said the accusations go back to 2016-17.

Social studies standards: The Florida Department of Education is recommending revisions to what students learn in social studies classes. One thing it isnt proposing any changes to is the controversial standard suggesting that slaves learned skills they benefited from, Politico Florida reports.

Student conduct: The Lee County School Board adopted new rules on vaping and artificial intelligence in its updated student code of conduct, WINK reports.

Superintendents: Former Lee County superintendent Christopher Bernier will become the next superintendent of Duval County schools, Jacksonville Today reports. Meanwhile, Duvals interim superintendent responded to Department of Education concerns about student safety, Jacksonville Today reports.

From the police blotter ... A Brevard County teacher is under investigation by law enforcement over techniques used to break up a fight, WKMG reports.  An 11-year-old Indian River County middle school student was arrested on allegations of making a threat of violence against a school, TC Palm reports.

Dont miss a story. Heres a link to yesterdays roundup.

Before you go ... Saxophonist David Sanborn, a Tampa native who led the smooth jazz movement in the 1980s, passed away earlier this month. Heres one of his biggest hits to remember him by.
Clear Creek Amana sophomore Brett Lepire is the Press-Citizen's Student of the Week

Clear Creek Amana sophomore Brett Lepire is the Iowa City Press-Citizen of the Week.

Clear Creek Amana sophomore Brett Lepire is the Iowa City Press-Citizen of the Week.

Lepire garnered 53.64% of the total vote (413 votes), edging out Trevon Herman, a sophomore from Iowa City High School, who garnered 42.86% of the total vote (330 votes).

"[Lepire] is an outstanding young man academically and socially," Noel Dalmasso told the Press-Citizen. "He is truly an asset to our building."

Lepire embodies overcoming adversity, from losing his dad to still attending school even when it is hard. This school year, Lepire was an honorary member of the CCA wrestling team, inspiring and cheering the team to victory. Last month, Lepire spoke in front of the entire student body and was recognized for his role on the team.

The Student of the Week poll honors Johnson County students for outstanding academic achievements and community service.

More: Iowa City West senior Andrew Dong named the Press-Citizen Student of the Week

Student of the Week nominees

Trevon Herman is a sophomore at Iowa City High and was nominated by Principal John Bacon.

Bacon describes Herman as one of his "go-to" students. In the classroom, Herman leads by example by showing up on time, being respectful to everyone, and always being thoughtful and engaging. Herman has fun, which radiates throughout the building.

Ava Wiltgen is a junior at Iowa City Regina Catholic High School. In the spring, Wiltgen scored high for reading, writing, and math on the Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP). Wiltgen also took five Advanced Placement testing exams.

"[Wiltgen] can always be counted on to have a positive attitude," Regina Principal Glenn Plummer told the Press-Citizen.

More: Area schools delayed as strong morning storms prompt small outages across Johnson County

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Clear Creek Amana sophomore Brett Lepire is latest Student of the Week
'Not an excuse': Mom gets prison for death of diabetic 4-year-old fed mostly soda

A Clermont County mother was sentenced Friday to at least nine years in prison for the killing of her 4-year-old daughter, who prosecutors say died from diabetes-related complications after being fed mostly Mountain Dew through a baby bottle.

The sentence came after 41-year-old Tamara Banks pleaded guilty in March to involuntary manslaughter. Under a state law that says the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction can extend someone's sentence based on conduct while in prison, Banks could serve as much as 13 years.

"This is one of the most tragic cases I have ever encountered," Clermont County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Clay Tharp said.

Hamilton County Coroner's Office records show Karmity Hoeb died at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center on Jan. 25, 2022.

Karmity suffered neglect and abuse for the majority of her life and her parents denied her proper nutrition and medical care, prosecutors said, adding the girl's death was a result of diabetic ketoacidosis  a life-threatening complication of diabetes most often associated with Type 1.

Just four days before she died, Karmity started showing signs of a "serious medical issue" while at home with her parents, prosecutors said in a court filing.

Those symptoms worsened as the days progressed, prosecutors said, with Banks failing to call 911 until the child turned blue and stopped breathing.

First responders were able to revive the child for a short time before taking her to the hospital, where doctors performed scans that showed she was brain dead. An autopsy revealed that Karmity died from a diabetes-related brain injury.

Prosecutors said Karmity lived with undiagnosed diabetes and her death could've been prevented with proper treatment and care.

"This child did not have to die," Tharp said.

Tamara Banks appears in Clermont County Common Pleas Court for sentencing on Friday. Prosecutors say Banks' 4-year-old daughter died from complications of diabetes after being fed mostly Mountain Dew through a baby bottle.

Karmity also suffered from a condition that caused her teeth to dissolve due to her being fed sugary soda through a baby bottle.

Prosecutors said Banks would often mix baby formula with Mountain Dew, long after Karmity should've been weaned off a bottle, and that investigators were unable to find evidence of the child ever visiting the dentist.

Despite Karmity's lack of medical treatment, Tharp said, Banks regularly refilled her own prescriptions and even had doctors visit her apartment to ensure that her medical needs were met.

Prosecutors also pointed out Banks has several other grown children who were treated poorly in her custody, including a son who fell into a coma at 4 years old from previously undiagnosed diabetes.

While the boy recovered, prosecutors said Banks continued to neglect his medical needs, failed to have him seen by a doctor and never attended his follow-up visits.

Clermont County Common Pleas Judge Victor Haddad said Banks should've had at least some idea of the dangers of diabetes due to her older child's condition.

"It's hard to be a good parent but you expect at least mediocre parents, everybody should expect that," Haddad said during Friday's hearing. "Not knowing what to do is not an excuse."

However, Banks said she believed she was caring for Karmity to the best of her ability.

"I thought I was taking care of her," she told the judge.

Banks and the child's father, 53-year-old Christopher Hoeb, were indicted last summer on counts including murder, involuntary manslaughter and endangering children.

Hoeb also pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and in exchange for the pair's guilty pleas, prosecutors recommended the remaining charges be dropped. Hoeb is scheduled to appear for sentencing on June 11.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Clermont County mom sentenced in child diabetes-related death
Close to half of gas stations in Tijuana closed due to gasoline shortage

SAN DIEGO (Border Report)  Almost half of the gas stations in the Tijuana area are closed due to a gasoline shortage in the region, according to Carlos Roberto Rubio Arreola, president of Gas Station Owners Association in Baja California.

Out of 278 gas station, we have 123 stations that are totally closed in Tijuana, Tecate and Rosarito. Others have a very limited supply of premium unleaded and diesel, said Rubio Arreola.

Rubio Arreola is pleading with the public not make panic purchases.

He says stations with gasoline are limiting sales to 500 pesos or about $30.

This will give others a chance to buy gasoline, he said.

The shortage is due to a group of residents performing a blockade of a refinery in Rosarito, an action that began last Sunday.

The facility is on the coast, about 25 miles south of the border.

They are blocking all access to the facility demanding the state of Baja California issue them title and full ownership to lands where they have built their homes.

For now, the state has indicated it is not ready to give into demands being made by those taking part in the blockade.

Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the U.S.-Mexico border

But the residents have promised to continue with their barricade of the refinery in Rosarito until they get what they want.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, May 24. Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan aim to boost trade turnover to $3 billion, Kazakhstan's Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov said during a meeting with the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Japarov, Trend reports.

According to the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, this meeting took place on the sidelines of the CIS Heads of Government Council session in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

During his speech, Bektenov highlighted the strategic importance of trade and economic relations between the two countries.

In turn, the head of Kyrgyzstan's Cabinet of Ministers noted active engagement in Kyrgyz-Kazakh relations since the beginning of the year.

He also mentioned the successful official visit of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov to Kazakhstan on April 18-19, as well as the 6th meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council. Akylbek Japarov added that to achieve the goals set by the leaders of the two states, both sides should make maximum efforts to timely implement ongoing investment and other projects between the countries.

According to the State Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, the country's trade turnover with Kazakhstan amounted to $1.317 billion in 2023, accounting for 8.4 percent of Kyrgyzstans total trade. The trade increased by 11.6 percent compared to $1.181 billion in 2022.

Kyrgyzstans exports to Kazakhstan during last year reached $455.702 million, increasing by 10.9 percent compared to $410.888 million in 2022. Kyrgyzstan's imports from Kazakhstan in 2023 totaled $862.182 million, which is an 11.9 percent increase compared to the 2022 figures ($770.215 million).
This is a KFF Health News story.

In early February, dairy farmers in the Texas Panhandle began to notice sick cattle. The buzz soon reached Darren Turley, executive director of the Texas Association of Dairymen: "They said there is something moving from herd to herd."

Nearly 60 days passed before veterinarians identified the culprit: a highly pathogenic strain of the bird flu virus, H5N1. Had it been detected sooner, the outbreak might have been swiftly contained. Now it has spread to at least eight other states, and it will be hard to eliminate.

At the moment, the bird flu hasn't adapted to spread from person to person through the air like the seasonal flu. That's what it would take to give liftoff to another pandemic. This lucky fact could change, however, as the virus mutates within each cow it infects. Those mutations are random, but more cows provide more chances of stumbling on ones that pose a grave risk to humans.

Why did it take so long to recognize the virus on high-tech farms in the world's richest country? Because even though H5N1 has circulated for nearly three decades, its arrival in dairy cattle was most unexpected. "People tend to think that an outbreak starts at Monday at 9 a.m. with a sign saying, 'Outbreak has started,'" said Jeremy Farrar, chief scientist at the World Health Organization. "It's rarely like that."

By investigating the origins of outbreaks, researchers garner clues about how they start and spread. That information can curb the toll of an epidemic and, ideally, stop the next one. On-the-ground observations and genomic analyses point to Texas as ground zero for this outbreak in cattle. To backtrack events in Texas, KFF Health News spoke with more than a dozen people, including veterinarians, farmers, and state officials.

MORE: 2nd human case of bird flu confirmed in Michigan: Health officials

An early indication that something had gone awry on farms in northwestern Texas came from devices hitched to collars on dairy cows. Turley describes them as "an advanced fitness tracker." They collect a stream of data, such as a cow's temperature, its milk quality, and the progress of its digestion -- or, rather, rumination -- within its four-chambered stomach.

What farmers saw when they downloaded the data in February stopped them in their tracks. One moment a cow seemed perfectly fine, and then four hours later, rumination had halted. "Shortly after the stomach stops, you'd see a huge falloff in milk," Turley said. "That is not normal."

Tests for contagious diseases known to whip through herds came up negative. Some farmers wondered if the illness was related to ash from wildfires devastating land to the east.

In hindsight, Turley wished he had made more of the migrating geese that congregate in the panhandle each winter and spring. Geese and other waterfowl have carried H5N1 around the globe. They withstand enormous loads of the virus without getting sick, passing it on to local species, like blackbirds, cowbirds, and grackles, that mix with migrating flocks.

But with so many other issues facing dairy farmers, geese didn't register. "One thing you learn in agriculture is that Mother Nature is unpredictable and can be devastating," Turley said. "Just when you think you have figured it out, Mother Nature tells you you do not."

Cat Clues

One dairy tried to wall itself off, careful not to share equipment with or employ the same workers as other farms, Turley recalled. Its cattle still became ill. Turley noted that the farm was downwind of another with an outbreak, "so you almost think it has to have an airborne factor."

On March 7, Turley called the Texas Animal Health Commission. They convened a One Health group with experts in animal health, human health, and agriculture to ponder what they called the "mystery syndrome." State veterinarians probed cow tissue for parasites, examined the animals' blood, and tested for viruses and bacteria. But nothing explained the sickness.

They didn't probe for H5N1. While it has jumped into mammals dozens of times, it rarely has spread between species. Most cases have been in carnivores, which likely ate infected birds. Cows are mainly vegetarian.

PHOTO: Genomic sequences from H5N1 viruses suggest the current bird flu epidemic started with a spillover from birds into cows in Texas, and then spread to other states within cattle. Routes and timing remain uncertain because of limited data. (KFF Health News, May 15. Screenshot of nextstrain.org)

"If someone told me about a milk drop in cows, I wouldn't think to test for H5N1 because, no, cattle don't get that," said Thomas Peacock, a virologist at the Pirbright Institute of England who studies avian influenza.

Postmortem tests of grackles, blackbirds, and other birds found dead on dairy farms detected H5N1, but that didn't turn the tide. "We didn't think much of it since we have seen H5N1-positive birds everywhere in the country," said Amy Swinford, director of the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory.

In the meantime, rumors swirled about a rash of illness among workers at dairy farms in the panhandle. It was flu season, however, and hospitals weren't reporting anything out of the ordinary.

Bethany Boggess Alcauter, director of research at the National Center for Farmworker Health, has worked in the panhandle and suspected farmworkers were unlikely to see a doctor even if they needed one. Clinics are far from where they live, she said, and many don't speak English or Spanish -- for instance, they may speak Indigenous languages such as Mixtec, which is common in parts of Mexico.

The cost of medical care is another deterrent, along with losing pay by missing work 00 or losing their jobs -- if they don't show up. "Even when medical care is there," she said, "it's a challenge."

What finally tipped off veterinarians? A few farm cats died suddenly and tested positive for H5N1. Swinford's group -- collaborating with veterinary labs at Iowa State and Cornell universities -- searched for the virus in samples drawn from sick cows.

"On a Friday night at 9 p.m., March 22, I got a call from Iowa State," Swinford said. Researchers had discovered antibodies against H5N1 in a slice of a mammary gland. By Monday, her team and Cornell researchers identified genetic fragments of the virus. They alerted authorities. With that, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that H5N1 had hit dairy cattle.

Recalling rumors of sick farmworkers, Texas health officials asked farmers, veterinarians, and local health departments to encourage testing. About 20 people with coughs, aches, irritated eyes, or other flu-like symptoms stepped forward to be swabbed. Those samples were shipped to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All but one were negative for H5N1. On April 1, the CDC announced this year's first case: a farmworker with an inflamed eye that cleared up within days.

MORE: Avian flu hits dairy producing cattle farms

Thirteen dairy farms in the panhandle had been affected, said Brian Bohl, director of field operations at the Texas Animal Health Commission. Farmers report that outbreaks among the herds last 30 to 45 days and most cows return to milking at their usual pace.

The observation hints that herds gain immunity, if temporarily. Indeed, early evidence shows that H5N1 triggers a protective antibody response in cattle, said Marie Culhane, a professor of veterinary population medicine at the University of Minnesota. Nonetheless, she and others remain uneasy because no one knows how the virus spreads, or what risk it poses to people working with cattle.

Although most cows recover, farmers said the outbreaks have disrupted their careful timing around when cattle milk, breed, and birth calves.

Farmers want answers that would come with further research, but the spirit of collaboration that existed in the first months of the Texas outbreak has fractured. Federal restrictions have triggered a backlash from farmers who find them unduly punishing, given that pasteurized milk and cooked beef from dairy cattle appear to pose no risk to consumers.

The rules, such as prohibiting infected cattle from interstate travel for 30 days, pose a problem for farmers who move pregnant cattle to farms that specialize in calving, to graze in states with gentler winters, and to return home for milking. "When the federal order came out, some producers said, 'I'm going to quit testing,'" Bohl said.

In May, the USDA offered aid, such as up to $10,000 to test and treat infected cattle. "The financial incentives will help," Turley said. But how much remains to be seen.

Federal authorities have pressed states to extract more intel from farms and farmworkers. Several veterinarians warn such pressure could fracture their relationships with farmers, stifling lines of communication.

Having fought epidemics around the world, Farrar cited examples of when strong-arm surveillance pushed outbreaks underground. During an early 2000s bird flu outbreak in Vietnam, farmers circumvented regulations by moving poultry at night, bribing inspection workers, and selling their goods through back channels. "Learning what drivers and fears exist among people is crucial," Farrar said. "But we always seem to realize that at a later date."

MORE: What to know about the bird flu outbreak in the US after virus fragments found in milk samples

A powerful driver in the U.S.: Milk is a $60 billion industry. Public health is also bound to bump up against politics in Texas, a state so aggrieved by pandemic restrictions that lawmakers passed a bill last year barring health officials from recommending covid-19 vaccines.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said that when he heard that federal agents with the CDC and USDA were considering visits to farms  including those where farmers reported the cattle had recovered  he advised against it. "Send federal agents to dairy that's not sick?" he said. "That doesn't pass the smell test."

From Texas to the Nation

Peacock said genomic analyses of H5N1 viruses point to Texas as ground zero for the cattle epidemic, emerging late last year.

"All of these little jigsaw puzzle pieces corroborate undetected circulation in Texas for some time," said Peacock, an author on one report about the outbreak.

Evidence suggests that either a single cow was infected by viruses shed from birds -- perhaps those geese, grackles, or blackbirds, he said. Or the virus spilled over from birds into cattle several times, with only a fraction of those moving from cow to cow.

Sometime in March, viruses appear to have hitched a ride to other states as cows were moved between farms. The limited genomic data available links the outbreak in Texas directly to others in New Mexico, Kansas, Ohio, North Carolina, and South Dakota. However, the routes are imprecise because the USDA hasn't attached dates and locations to data it releases.

Researchers don't want to be caught off guard again by the shape-shifting H5N1 virus, and that will require keeping tabs on humans. Most, if not all, of about 900 people diagnosed with H5N1 infections worldwide since 2003 acquired it from animals, rather than from humans, Farrar said. About half of those people died.

Occasional tests of sick farmworkers aren't sufficient, he said. Ideally, a system is set up to encourage farmworkers, their communities, and healthcare workers to be tested whenever the virus hits farms nearby.

"Healthcare worker infections are always a sign of human-to-human transmission," Farrar said. "That's the approach you want to take -- I am not saying it's easy."

Clues from bird flu's ground zero on dairy farms in the Texas panhandle originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  The U.S. Coast Guard rescued a man whose sailboat caught fire off the Virginia coast on Thursday night.

The Coast Guard says it happened around midnight about 60 miles east of Chincoteague.

The 58-year-old mariner was found in a lifeboat and taken to a Norfolk hospital for treatment.

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued a man whose sailboat caught fire off the Virginia coast on May 23, 2024 (Coast Guard images)

Theres no word on the cause of the boat fire at this time.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Update:

The Cocoa Beach Police Department posted a letter on their Facebook page telling the party promoter she is in violation of the Citys Special Event ordinance, and she could face a fine and up to 60 days in jail.

The intelligence that we received told us that we could expect as many as an extra 1400-1500 vehicles in the city when theres only around 1800 parking spots total, Wes Mullins, Cocoa Beach Police Chief.

The city of Cocoa Beach Police is now working with federal, state and local partners to help ensure public safety.

Previous Story:

Police at Cocoa Beach have been made aware of an unpermitted beach party happening on Saturday.

A news conference will be held at noon regarding the illegal event titled Beach Day Party happening Saturday

In a statement released from CBPD, officials said, This is an unpermitted event and is therefore illegal. The City Manager has established a Special Event Zone under Florida Statutes. This zone is from the North entrance of Cocoa Beach to the South entrance of Cocoa Beach.

The agency goes on to say, All traffic violations will be strictly enforced, and fines will be doubled. Any traffic violations can result in the towing and impoundment of vehicles. There will be strict enforcement of all Florida Statutes and ordinances, including arrests as appropriate.

Read: Police: Student struck and killed by vehicle near school entrance in Port Orange

Watch Eyewitness News at noon for the latest developments in this story.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
De-coding Putins ceasefire briefings  what he says and what he means

Kremlin sources have suggested Vladimir Putin wants a ceasefire among a string of other revelations.

But what is behind the briefings  and what does Putin really want?

Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war

This restates the Kremlins long-standing official position, which is that it is ready for peace talks but that Ukraine must recognise new realities on the ground as a precondition.

By realities the Kremlin means Russias control of around 18 per cent of Ukrainian territory. Russia has officially annexed four Ukrainian regions  Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya and Kherson  but does not fully control any of them.

Freezing the conflict along current lines would mean Russia de facto  but not formally  parking its claim on those regions for the time being. Perhaps Putin views that as a sufficient concession.

Ukraine has made clear that trading land for peace is unacceptable because it would reward the aggressor and give him an incentive to invade again in future. Many of its allies agree.

Tatiana Stanovaya, founder of the R.Politik think tank, said on X that Putin may announce the annexation of the Kharkiv region in a signal that the price for peace will increase if his demands are not met.

Putin will say that we won, that Nato attacked us and we kept our sovereignty, that we have a land corridor to Crimea, which is true

That is exactly what any observer of the Kremlin would expect him to do.

Putin went into this war with big ambitions. The special military operation was meant to topple Kyivs West-leaning government and prevent Natos eastward expansion but also conquer (take back, in Putins words) Ukraines most important cities and the entire Black Sea coast as far as Moldova.

Pupils fire automatic rifles at a range in Vladikavkaz, Russia - Reuters/Kazbek Basayev

After failing to capture Kyiv, Kharkiv and Odessa, Putin switched his publicly declared war aims to the more modest goal liberating the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

He hasnt achieved that either, but it doesnt really matter. He has total control over Russian broadcast media and has nearly strangled the once boisterous and diverse Russian internet.

He is unlikely to have much trouble telling the Russian public that capturing a land corridor to Crimea and defying unprovoked aggression by the Nato alliance is a glorious victory. The failure outside Kyiv will be forgotten.

Putin is content with his gains because any new major offensives would require another public mobilisation scheme

This fits with most mainstream analysis of the Kremlins thinking.

Putins administration has a long-standing addiction to opinion polls and focus groups, and is generally allergic to anything that could blunt his popularity.

Thats why he for months resisted his generals requests for mobilisation after the failure of the initial invasion in 2022.

Sure enough, the first and so far only wave of mobilisation in September 2022 was incredibly unpopular domestically.

Thousands of people fled the country to avoid conscription and the presidents poll ratings dropped.

Since then, Russia has managed to recruit enough volunteers to replenish losses and make incremental advances, but cannot generate reserves large enough for dramatic breakthroughs.

The force that attacked the Kharkiv region this month is thought to be too small to threaten the city of Kharkiv itself, for example.

No agreement could happen while Zelensky was in power, unless Russia bypassed him and struck a deal with Washington

This is true. Mr Zelensky has staked his political career on a victory, and sees peace talks with Putin  especially with the kind of concessions Russia is demanding  as toxic to his popularity.

Moscow is likely to target Kyivs Western backers in the hope that countries such as the US, UK, France and Germany will use Ukraines dependence on them to force Mr Zelensky into a deal.

Mr Zelensky has staked his political career on a victory - Frat

Talking to Washington instead of Kyiv also reflects the Kremlins beliefs that Ukraine is not a real country; that Mr Zelensky is a puppet of the West; and that great powers  the US and Russia  should be the real arbiters of peace.

But in Washington and London especially, officials dont believe Putin is genuinely interested in talks. Most believe he still maintains his goal of taking control of most of Ukraine, either through conquest or by replacing Mr Zelensky with a pliant, pro-Russian replacement.

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.
Donald Trump rallied at a park in the Bronx on Thursday to an adoring crowd of hundreds of current and future Florida residents, alongside rappers accused of murder, while rambling about putting his pants on.

During his speech, Trump referred to imaginary business executives while reliving his glory days as a racist housing developer. Some of the greatest days of my business career were in the toughest times, Trump said from prewritten remarks. But I enjoyed waking up every single morning andgo to battle, he continued, veering off script.

A lot of people say to me today, the toughest business people, people that you know about, Could I ask you a question: How do you do it? I say, Do what?

Trump then proceeded to have an imaginary conversation with himself and unnamed Toughest Business People begging him to tell them how he puts his pants on. How do you get up in the morning and put your pants on? Why do you put those pants on? Ill explain it to you someday How do you do it? How do you get up? How?

Trump: A lot of people ask me how do you put your pants on? pic.twitter.com/a8RUJwdewU  Acyn (@Acyn) May 23, 2024

The tangent appeared to be intended to boast of Trumps strength but ultimately served as a conduit for his greatest weakness: his tendency to ramble incoherently. The stumble is one in a series of particularly nonsensical gaffes the 77-year old Trump has had lately, raising questions about his mental acuity. Recent polling shows six in 10 Americans have doubts about Trumpsand Bidensaging mental capability.
College protests have rocked campuses. Here's what administrators can learn for this fall

Tumultuous. Momentous. Revealing. Tense.

That's how some higher education and free speech experts summed up the feeling on college campuses nationwide over the last eight months as war broke out in the Middle East.

Thousands of students organized countless protests on dozens of campuses, stemming from outrage over civilian deaths during the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza that began Oct. 7. About 1,200 people in southern Israel were killed and more than 200 taken hostage in a Hamas-led attack, according to USA TODAY. Israel's retaliatory assault has killed nearly 35,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, and destroyed much of its infrastructure.

Protestors gather and wave Palestinian flags during a May 1st protest on Ohio State University's South Green during demonstrations where hundreds gathered in support of Palestine.

Peaceful demonstrations at the end of fall semesters led to a sustained wave of protests throughout the winter and spring, culminating in a number of campuses pitching tent encampments, a visible symbol of a student movement that spread nationwide.

Many of those protests have also became embroiled in violence as police officers tried to disperse participating students from their campuses. Police in riot gear swept onto the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles, and New York City police retook control of an administrative building at Columbia University. More than 40 individuals were arrested during largely peaceful demonstrations at Ohio State University in late April.

Campus free speech: Ohio State students, faculty speak out for Gaza and against university reaction to protest

As many of the tent encampments have come down and commencement ceremonies wrapped up, college campuses will likely see a reprieve from protests during summer break. But experts say that doesn't mean university leaders should relax.

"If you are at a school where there have been protests, I hope you take a moment of acknowledgement seeing young people using their First Amendment rights," said Kristen Shahverdian, program director of campus free speech at PEN America, a nonprofit free speech and literary organization.

Protesters at Ohio State University share anti-war sentiments, with some making demands for the university to divest from Israel over the Israel-Hamas war.

"It will be interesting to look back, and I hope some campuses do some introspection," Shahverdian said.

Between a continued war in the Middle East, the anniversary of the Oct. 7 attacks and the upcoming presidential election, experts say campus protests will likely continue with just as much fervor this fall.

What can university leaders do to reflect during these summer months to prepare for their students' return come August?

Understanding the moment

Student activism has been a mainstay of campus life for decades. Many observers have pointed back to protests against the Vietnam War and South African apartheid as foundational examples of these more recent demonstrations.

"These are protests we haven't seen in years, not since the murder of George Floyd have we seen such a movement," said Zach Greenberg, senior program officer for student organizations and campus rights advocacy at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, a free-speech advocacy nonprofit better known as FIRE.

But this moment is distinct from previous generations of protestors, said Demetri L. Morgan, an associate professor of higher education at Loyola University Chicago whose research focuses on student activism.

Morgan said these protests are much more intersectional than, for instance, students rallying against one specific issue or speaker coming to campus.

"What is defining about this moment is how students who don't identify as Muslim, Jewish, Palestinian or Israeli are taking up sides," Morgan said. "It's making it a truly campuswide spectacle and begs the question, 'What side of this issue are you on?'"

Those intersections also mean "there are more students who are perhaps at odds with each other," Shahverdian said.

Morgan said this generation of students have also been more inclined toward activism than previous classes, between witnessing school shootings and the 2020 George Floyd protests and experiencing disruptions from COVID-19. There is "a certain streak of activism" in these students, he said, as they have felt disenfranchised.

"This is not their first activism rodeo," Morgan said.

People lock arms during a protest at Ohio State University as demands are made for the university to divest from Israel over the Israel-Hamas war.

Listen to and work with your students

Morgan said that students are more sophisticated than some give them credit for, which can lead to uncomfortable interactions.

While protestors have called for ceasefires in Gaza, many students are also calling for their universities to take specific actions, like divesting from companies that support Israel and financial transparency. Minimizing or ignoring critiques from students highlights "the complexity of the issue," he said.

"The students have specific goals," Morgan said. "Do you know what the students are actually asking for?"

Only seeing student protests as a critique of geopolitics and not as a critique of the institution itself, Morgan said, "looks hypocritical, tone deaf and misses the moment."

Abdul-Azeez Ahmad leads a protest at Ohio State University as demands are made for the university to divest from Israel over the Israel-Hamas war.

While it is not always possible to begin those conversations when tensions are high, Shahverdian said one-sided communication toward students, not with students, is not productive.

Shahverdian said university administrators need to start identifying people now  like faculty, student affairs employees and student organizers  who they could start dialogues with.

Morgan said that means treating students with respect, not being patronizing and actually sitting down to talk about serious topics like divestment to learn more from each other.

"We need a radically different approach that takes students more seriously," he said.

Learn from examples of positive negotiation

Some campuses had a harder time than others this spring, Shahverdian said, but escalating otherwise peaceful protests often led to negative results.

"Columbia bringing in the police is what triggered all of the other protests in solidarity across the country," she said.

But campuses who started dialogues with students before protests ended in police escalation and arrests have become positive examples to glean from, Shahverdian said.

Brown University, for instance, negotiated with student protest leaders, allowing five students to present a divestment proposal to administrators in exchange for clearing encampments and refraining from protests through the end of the semester.

Northwestern University told students they could join the school's investment committee if protestors removed tents. Administrators also gave students permission to continue "peaceful demonstrations" and keep one tent on campus.

Over 100 protesters joined a growing demonstration Thursday calling on Ohio State University and other universities to divest with businesses associated with Israel. Ohio State University's South Oval was the site of around 40 arrests last Thursday.

Review policies and programming now

Morgan said the way many university leaders have interacted with their students during protests shows that "they do not understand this generation."

"The administrator playbook is archaic," he said.

Complex issues with no easy answers require having hard conversations  internally, with stakeholders and with students  Morgan said.

"We could be teaching through this moment in so many meaningful ways that we just aren't," he said.

Shahverdian said there is no one-size-fits-all approach, but there are a number of ways universities can begin planning now for this fall, like listening sessions, speaker events and courses for students. What matters, she said, is less about one-off workshops and more about ongoing programming that keeps the conversation going.

Several hundred protesters gathered on Ohio State University's South Oval on May 1, calling for Ohio State University to divest from businesses associated with Israel.

Shahverdian and Morgan also said they would both be thinking about what messaging universities put out during new-student orientations this summer.

Campuses also need to review their free speech policies now, Greenberg said. Public universities are government entities bound by the Constitution, so students on public campuses have free speech rights protected by the First Amendment. But campuses are allowed to enforce neutral time, manner and place restrictions.

"Depending on where, when, and how you protest, public universities can set some reasonable, narrowly-tailored limits on your protest, but they cannot limit the views you express," FIRE's campus protest guidelines read.

While universities can punish students for violating those neutral policies, Greenberg said not all have done the best in uniformly enforcing them.

"Universities haven't done a great job of making clear where the line is," Greenberg said.

"If the policies are bad," he added, "they're going to be violating their students' rights to free speech."

Several hundred protesters gathered May 1 at Ohio State University's South Oval for a demonstration in support of Palestine and calling for OSU to divest from businesses with links to Israel

Sheridan Hendrix is a higher education reporter for The Columbus Dispatch. Sign up for Extra Credit, her education newsletter, here.

shendrix@dispatch.com

@sheridan120

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: College leaders can learn a lot from this year's campus protests
FILE - Former President Alvaro Uribe arrives for a press conference at the Democratic Center party headquarters, in Bogota, Colombia, June 29, 2022. On Friday, May 24, 2024, Uribe was formally charged with witness tampering and bribery for his efforts to discredit a political opponent who was digging into his family ties to right-wing paramilitary groups. (AP Photo/Lina Gasca, File)

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe was charged Friday in a long-running witness tampering investigation.

Uribe was formally charged with witness tampering and bribery for his efforts to discredit a political opponent who was digging into Uribes family ties to right-wing paramilitary groups. If convicted, Uribe faces up to 12 years in prison.

The case dates back to 2012, when Uribe filed a complaint with the Supreme Court accusing a leftist lawmaker, Ivan Cepeda, of slander. In 2018, the high court  the only authority allowed to investigate lawmakers  closed the investigation against Cepeda, and in a bombshell reversal, announced it was opening a new probe into Uribe, who was then a senator for fraud and manipulating testimony.

Uribe, who governed Colombia with strong U.S. support from 2002 to 2010, has denied any wrongdoing and has accused Colombias chief prosecutors office of political vengeance.

There are wiretapped phone conversations in which the former president can be heard discussing with one of his lawyers efforts to flip two former paramilitary fighters who were set to testify against him. Uribe said his conversations were intercepted illegally.

The long-running legal battle is taking place against a polarized political backdrop in the South American nation that has been made more intense by the 2022 election of another Uribe critic, President Gustavo Petro, a former leftist rebel himself.

No political leader in Colombias recent history has wielded as much influence as Uribe, who still has legions of followers. He led the no campaign that successfully voted against a peace accord with leftist rebels in 2016, though the government later adopted a slightly revised version.

Allegations of ties to drug cartels and paramilitaries have dogged him since the early 1980s, when the civil aviation agency he then led was accused of giving air licenses to drug traffickers. Declassified State Department cables from a decade later show U.S. officials were told the up-and-coming politician had ties to cartels.

The media attention and strong emotions surrounding the case have complicated the work of Colombias justice system, which throughout its history has struggled to hold prominent political and military leaders accountable.

Before Petro took office, Colombian prosecutors tried twice to close the witness-tempering case after saying they had failed to find evidence of Uribes criminal responsibility. However, those requests were rejected by judges, and in April, after Petro appointed a new attorney general, prosecutors changed course and said they would take the case to trial.

Friday's hearing was held through video conference and Uribe had a limited role, leaving most of the talking to his lawyer.

The chief prosecutor, Gilberto Ivan Villareal, said the former president abused his distinguished position in society" to flip witnesses and get them to speak out against Cepeda.

Uribe was briefly held under pre-trial house arrest in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic under orders from the Supreme Court. But he was freed shortly after resigning his senate seat. The move prompted the justice system to transfer the case from the high court to prosecutors.

___

Goodman reported from Miami.
DENVER (KDVR)  The Colorado Aviation Business Association said that a recent state study that found slightly higher levels of lead in children living near airports affirms the industrys safety.

While the Colorado Department of Health and Environment study noted the slightly higher lead levels, it also found that the levels are below the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions blood lead reference value. It also found blood levels beyond 2 miles from a regional airport were close to or below the average level reported in children across Colorado.

State study shows slightly raised levels of lead in childrens blood near airports

While the study confirms that the risk of lead exposure from general aviation airports is extremely small, Americas aviation industry remains committed to transitioning to unleaded fuel as soon as one is developed, approved, and made commercially available, the association stated.

The 10-year study was conducted around 12 of Colorados regional and county airports, finding slightly elevated levels of lead in blood test results of children who live within 2 miles of such an airport. The study looked at general aviation airports with piston aircraft that use leaded gasoline and fly at lower elevations than commercial jets.

Because the data was aggregated, the study cannot say whether children living near one airport have higher lead levels than children living near different airports.

Aviation fuel and its effects on children have been recently discussed in connection with the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, with over 400 Jefferson County residents filing a lawsuit in December that claimed the airport is violating their airspace, dumping lead on their homes and devaluing their homes. The group asked for financial compensation.

The CDPHEs lead study again confirms the continued safety of the aviation industry in Colorado, finding that blood lead levels in children living even within 1 mile of an airport remain well below CDC guidelines, and are consistent with levels found elsewhere in the state, the association stated. Although the study found marginal decreases in (blood-lead levels) a mile and more beyond an airport, we note that the authors acknowledge the studys limitations, and the lack of evidence to suggest that airport activity was a major contributing factor.

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In March, the town of Superior and Boulder County also filed a lawsuit against Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport citing threats to residents health, safety and welfare.

Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport has claimed the title of being the third-busiest airport in the state, recording almost 300,000 takeoffs and landings during 2023. The airport also announced in 2023 that it would transition to unleaded fuel within the next four years and had a noise abatement program to reduce noise.

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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, May 24. The trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan amounted to $63.546 million in 2023, announced the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Japarov, during a meeting with the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Trend reports.

According to the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, the meeting took place on the sidelines of the CIS Heads of Government Council session in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

Japarov noted that there is significant untapped trade, economic, and investment potential in Kyrgyz-Turkmen relations.

"I believe it is necessary to further increase the volume and expand the range of mutual supplies, and to seek opportunities for joint access to third-country markets," he said.

Japarov also emphasized the importance of strengthening trade and economic ties between the two countries, developing issues of transit transport, electricity imports, and other aspects of bilateral cooperation.

Japarov concluded that the Kyrgyz side is looking forward to the visit of Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the Chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, to Kyrgyzstan.
(PUEBLO, Colo.)  On Friday, May 25, Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado Energy Office (CEO) announced $7.7 million in grant awards through the Geothermal Energy Grant Program to advance the use of geothermal technology in Colorado.

Geothermal energy, the heat beneath our feet, is an underutilized resource that can save people money on energy and improve air quality. Colorado is already a national leader in low-cost renewable energy, and now with these grants, we are supporting more geothermal energy across the state, said Governor Jared Polis.

The Governors office said the grants will support 35 projects across the state that will range from installing heat pumps to studying geothermal resources for zero-emissions electricity generation. The awardees are expected to invest more than $100 million into the awarded projects to leverage the states investment.

The City of Pueblo is getting $270,000 in grant funding to install ground-source heat pumps for heating and cooling at three new, net-zero emissions fire stations. The fire stations will be in majority black, indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) communities that are far away from existing emergency services, which the Governors office said will help reduce insurance rates and improve emergency response time and outcomes. The project is also expected to save taxpayers money, resulting in more than $28,000 in energy cost savings annually.

Installing geothermal heat pumps in Pueblos three newest net-zero fire stations will keep operation costs low while reducing electricity demand on the grid from these much-needed emergency services hubs, said Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham. We are grateful to receive this funding from the state, which will not only help us achieve our sustainability goals but will also save our community money and advance the use of innovative geothermal technology in our city.

The Governor also said that thermal energy networks and geothermal electricity generation require the same workforce skills as jobs in the oil and gas industry.

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  Columbus welcomed an all-time record of people in 2023.

Experience Columbus, a tourism center in the city, showed off a new brand campaign and new data on Thursday night. Not only is the city setting new records for visitors, but the organization is also hearing how much the tourism industry is supporting local businesses.

New visitation data from 2023 shows Greater Columbus welcomed 51.2 million visitors. Thats up from 49.6 million in 2022.

Columbus City Schools board member accused of writing leaked document apologizes

We do anticipate as our community grows, we discover and have additional assets into the community that we will grow those numbers, Experience Columbus President and CEO Brian Ross said.

They are also seeing the financial impact, Experience Columbus said visitors spent $8.2 billion at local businesses.

Weve also really taken a big step forward with our culinary scene, with our arts and culture scene. So were becoming more well-known, particularly regionally, Ross said.

Experience Columbus also shared a new campaign hoping to bring even more people into the city. It aims to share all the good things about Columbus and bring the city to the top of mind nationwide.

Theres a lot of data out there that our community ranks very high in, that a lot of people may not know. So when you compare where we rank compared to first-tier cities, some of our competitive cities, people sometimes are surprised to see were either on par or ahead of those cities, Ross said.

The data also shows April through June is the busiest travel season for Columbus. Visiting family and friends is the top reason people come to the area.

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House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) on Thursday pinned the blame of last weeks raucous contempt hearing on a few repeat offenders of breaking decorum on Capitol Hill.

Its very unfortunate. It wasnt the first time, I hope its the last time, Comer quipped in an interview on CNN. The members that have been constant repeat offenders of breaking decorum have all been called out, and hopefully it wont happen again.

Nearly an hour of disorder unfolded during the contempt markup for Attorney General Merrick Garland when Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) clashed after the Georgia Republican accused Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) of wearing fake eyelashes. Crockett then hit back at Greene, seemingly referring to her as bleach blonde bad built butch body.

Youre not supposed to engage in personalities, Comer said during his CNN appearance while explaining the incident. And unfortunately, thats what happened in the last committee hearing. Rep. Greenes words were struck [from the record], I think Rep. Crockett said some very inappropriate things as well.

The chaos of the Oversight hearing began after Greene asked if any Democrats on the panel were employing the daughter of Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former President Trumps hush money trial in Manhattan. Republicans have repeatedly targeted Merchans daughter for working at a progressive digital agency.

Please tell me what that has to do with Merrick Garland, Crockett asked. Do you know what were here for?

I dont think you know what youre here for, Greene responded. I think your fake eyelashes are messing up what youre reading.

Democrats immediately criticized Greene for the comment, with Ocasio-Cortez yelling thats disgusting and calling her remarks absolutely unacceptable.

Ocasio-Cortez, Greene and Crockett then got into a back-and-forth, with other lawmakers occasionally stepping in to take jabs at the other side.

At one point, Crockett asked if her hypothetical alliterative comment  which appeared to be a jab at Greene  would break congressional protocol.

Comer noted Thursday the committee hearing was a very important one that was hijacked by a few unfortunate soundbites.

After the disruption, the Oversight Committee eventually voted 24-20 to advance a measure to hold Garland in contempt of Congress in an effort to censure him for failing to turn over audio recordings of President Biden speaking with special counsel Robert Hur.

Comer appeared on CNN to discuss a bill he introduced Wednesday with Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) that would require presidents to make a series of disclosures about their relatives foreign earnings.

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A member of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment places flags at the headstones of U.S. military personnel buried at Arlington National Cemetery, in preparation for Memorial Day.

A member of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment places flags at the headstones of U.S. military personnel buried at Arlington National Cemetery. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

On Memorial Day I reflect on two deaths from the 9/11 wars, and what, from the comfort of my home as the chirping of the spring birds greets the dawn, I owe them. One was a Marine I only knew for an hour or so, and the other was a close friend of years and deployments.

The Marine died because he took a few seconds to push his men off of a rooftop first and didnt jump down the stairwell to safety when he could have. He waited his turn, which as a leader, was to go last.

A bullet hit him in the back, just above the plate in his body armor, traveled through his chest, and exited the front. When I removed his body armor, the ugly little piece of metal fell into the hands of another Marine helping me work on him.

We tried the best we could, with what we had, but he died quickly and silently, in the shadows of a rooftop staircase in Iraq. He was from Georgia, and he is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

My close friend died as a member of a special mission unit. At the time, the terrorist network run by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, who commanded al-Qaida in Iraq, was strapping bombs on special needs children and adults and walking them into crowded marketplaces, and a raid targeting those jihadists resulted in his death.

My friend and another SEAL were clearing a room that held a hidden bunker and a machine gun, awaiting their entry. Both men were killed instantly. I learned of his death from a mutual friend on a snowy day in northern Vermont, working as a lab technician while I applied to medical school. My friend was from New Hampshire and is also buried in Arlington.

Both of these men are with me now and will always be. Their sacrifice, of all they were and would ever be, took away from them all the fruits our nation have enjoyed. T-ball games on warm spring days, hot cocoa fireside in a snowstorm, and love, community, and family were all sacrificed in dank little buildings in Iraq.

Making sense of their deaths, for me, was only possible if I viewed their sacrifice as a gift. It makes sense that my friend gave his life for me. It made sense that the young Marine gave his life, quite literally, in my stead.

Or at least thats how I try to see it.

And while I can never repay what these men gave me, I can try to earn it by accepting the Sisyphean task of living a good life. Their gift was not free of obligation, or duty, and while it can never be repaid, it can be earned.

As I think through the meaning of Memorial Day, to honor all those who lost their lives in defense of America, I wonder what would these two men who live inside me feel about our democracy today?

On Friday, I am joining a coalition of veterans, including Common Defense and past leaders of the North Carolina National Guard, concerned about this issue. We are gathering at Greensboros Guilford Courthouse National Military Park.

Across the city, the state Republican Party is holding its annual gathering, which will include members of the Republican National Committee, like new co-chair former president Donald Trumps daughter-in-law Lara Trump. In attendance at the GOP event are multiple individuals, who echo Trumps doubts about the legitimacy of U.S. elections and his refusal to commit to accepting this years results.

The former president, who has displayed an unprecedented disrespect for military service over the years, has also repeatedly threatened violence if the election does not go his way.

We are demanding that Republican leaders now in Greensboro use all their influence to force Donald Trump to renounce these awful and dangerous threats of violence, which have no place in a democracy. Trump must commit to a peaceful and non-violent election season.

We have a duty to our fallen brothers and sisters, whom we honor this weekend. They fought battles abroad so we can live in a country free of such threats. Who among us will not honor their sacrifice?

The post To commemorate Memorial Day, veterans demand Trump and NC Republicans stop threatening violence appeared first on NC Newsline.
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The News

The housing activists known as YIMBYs have spent most of the past decade fighting their battles at the state and local levels, pushing to loosen strict zoning rules they argue have led to a national home affordability crisis.

But now, the movement may be quietly inching closer to its biggest win yet on Capitol Hill, complete with a namesake bill. Last week, the House Financial Services Committee unanimously approved the bipartisan YIMBY Act  the acronym stands for Yes In My Backyard  which would require many localities that receive federal money to report what steps theyre taking to juice housing development.

Its not the only piece of legislation that has advocates for denser housing excited. Lawmakers have also introduced bipartisan measures aimed at building more housing near transit projects and providing money to local governments to help them reform their zoning codes.

What excites me is not that we have a one-off bill thats supported on a bipartisan basis. Its that we have an agenda of multiple bills moving forward, said Mike Kingsella, the CEO of the pro-density group Up for Growth. This is the greatest amount of federal legislative activity on housing supply that weve seen since the 1940s.

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Know More

YIMBY activists have managed to eke out a string of policy wins in both red and blue states by putting together a left-right coalition thats relatively rare in polarized national politics. The cause has brought together progressive urbanists, who often see housing affordability as a racial and economic justice issue, with anti-regulation conservatives, who view restrictive land-use rules as an infringement on property rights.

A similar alliance appears to be shaping up in Congress. But it has required walking a fine line on policy that doesnt intrude too much on the powers of your city council. Its backers are very aware that housing reform is an area where steady progress can suddenly be undone by a panic from any number of voter blocs, media corners, and interest groups.

The YIMBY Act was first introduced back in 2019 by Sen. Todd Young, a wonkish Indiana Republican, who found a Democratic partner in Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz, a vocal progressive with his own technocratic streak.

Its a relatively narrow piece of legislation that advocates acknowledge is unlikely to spur a great deal of new building on its own. By design, the measure would not actually force municipalities to make any reforms, a limitation that was essential to winning support from Republicans wary of meddling in local control.

Instead, the bill is designed to give housing advocates a boost by making it easier to track which cities still have restrictive development rules in place, and which are passing reforms  a basic question that remains difficult to sort out today, despite private efforts like the National Zoning Atlas.

Under the proposal, municipalities that receive Community Development Block Grant funding would be required to file a report at least once every five years detailing whether theyve enacted any of 22 different land use reforms, or have plans to. The list includes steps like allowing duplexes or triplexes in areas zoned for single-family homes, reducing minimum lot sizes, and allowing more apartment buildings.

The result would be a national map of how zoning reforms are progressing, Alex Armlovich, a housing policy expert at the Niskanen Center, told Semafor. He and other supporters see the bill as a critical first step  one that would amount to Congresss most significant attempt in decades to chip away at the regulations that block homes from being built. (The bill previously passed the House in March 2020, only to fall by the wayside when COVID hit). And perhaps most importantly, one thats possibly capable of reaching President Bidens desk.

This is an important bill, but its not revolutionary, Schatz told Semafor. So I think its got a reasonable shot at becoming law.

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The View From Todd Young

Could Republicans ever support something more aggressive, perhaps a bill that denied states federal funding if they refused to lighten their zoning rules? Young said it was unlikely.

I think Republicans have, during my lifetime, emphasized the importance of respecting local authorities and local prerogatives, he told Semafor.

Not surprisingly, some of the other YIMBY legislation now floating around the hill would take a similarly light touch.

The Build More Transit Near Housing Act, sponsored by Schatz and Indiana Republican Sen. Mike Braun, would give local governments a leg up when applying for federal funding on fixed transportation projects like light rail and street cars if they can show theyre trying to encourage affordable housing nearby. The Housing Supply and Affordability Act would create a grant program to help municipalities reform their zoning codes, funding the combination of staff time, consultants, and community engagement events that are usually necessary for the process. A somewhat similar $100 million program meant to reward jurisdictions that upzone made its way into the most recent budget, and is expected to start rolling out awards soon.

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Jordans view

It might be a little premature to say Congress is having a YIMBY moment (some bills would need to pass first). But the idea that the U.S. needs to start dismantling barriers to housing development does appear to have bipartisan legs in Washington  at least up to a point.

In particular, theres at least one big unanswered political question lingering over the recent spate of bipartisan efforts in Congress: Can they survive Donald Trump? In 2020, the then- president accused Democrats of attempting to destroy our suburbs with fair housing regulations, and its not hard to imagine him attacking pro-density efforts on similar grounds.

Young said that, so far at least, he hasnt heard those sorts of concerns from his GOP colleagues  they mostly want assurances that the YIMBY Act wont bind up local governments in too much bureaucratic red tape or force them to adopt policies against their will.

Schatz added that he and other pro-housing lawmakers are being cautious about overreach, given the emotional issues at stake.

Theres an old saying in Hawaii politics that weve got to go slow to go fast, Schatz told Semafor. We want to move as aggressively as we can. But so far weve been able to prevent a backlash, and thats where we want to live.

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Room for Disagreement

The same gradualism has helped pass housing legislation before, but playing it safe can also lead to ineffective policy rather than building momentum for greater things.

In 1991, a commission convened by Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Jack Kemp published Not In My Back Yard: Removing Barriers to Affordable Housing. The report found that suburbs had used zoning to freeze out apartments and other new development, and called for Congress to essentially cut off local governments unless they pared back their rules.

Congress opted for a less heavy-handed approach, passing legislation that offered states grants to rejigger their zoning codes and creating a national clearinghouse on local zoning rules and changes. The prescription didnt cure the problem (it didnt help that the clearinghouse, with its pre-Internet design, quickly became outdated).

One difference between then and now is that a national movement has coalesced around zoning issues that has already begun winning over state and local lawmakers. The combination of better reporting and grant money to accelerate reforms might make more of a difference than before.

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The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) shared a post online Wednesday condemning Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) for refusing to host Kenyan President William Ruto for a joint meeting of Congress, which is typically extended to other international leaders.

While @SpeakerJohnson might not have given the President of Kenya the opportunity to address a Joint Session of Congress, the CBC was proud to welcome President Ruto to the United States Capitol today, the CBC posted on the social platform X. We were honored to present President Ruto honorary membership in the CBC.

Ruto is in town for a state dinner Thursday, President Bidens sixth state dinner since taking office.

He posted on X highlighting CBCs role in advancing social justice, human rights and economic development across the globe.

We implore the Congress to take lead in reconfiguring the global financial architecture where power is not in the hands of the few. A bold, robust and targeted approach will free Africa of the debt burden and transform the world, Ruto said on X.

The Hill has reached out to Johnsons office for comment; it released statement to USA Today that Johnson offered the Kenyan Embassy over 90 minutes of engagement including a one-on-one visit with Speaker Johnson, bipartisan leadership meeting with Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, and Committee Chairmen and Ranking Members, and a bicameral meeting.

Ruto said he was honored to be recognized as an honorary member of the CBC and shared photos of his visit.

The dinner will honor the 60th anniversary of the United Statess partnership with Kenya, and Biden plans to designate Kenya as a major non-NATO ally, the first in sub-Saharan Africa.

The post from the CBC was meant as a dig against Johnson, who is planning to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress. Johnsons invitation has been met with pushback from some Democrats as the war between Israel and Hamas continues in Gaza.

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A conscript who was deemed fit for military service by a medical commission died in an enlistment office in southwestern Zakarpattia Oblast due to a rapid deterioration of his health, the regional enlistment center said on May 24.

Ukraine has ramped up its mobilization efforts to replenish the ranks of the Armed Forces as the all-out war with Russia entered its third year.

The person's health "rapidly deteriorated" on May 23, upon which he was given first aid and medics were summoned, who could only declare him dead upon their arrival, the statement read.

No other details on possible causes or circumstances were provided. The regional enlistment authorities said a special inspection would investigate the tragic incident.

"Unfortunately, there are cases when doctors of a military medical commission recognize conscripts as fit for service, but later tragedies occur," the statement read.

"We express our condolences to relatives and friends."

A number of tragic incidents and complaints about misconduct by enlistment officers have been reported throughout the full-scale war, including cases of abuse toward recruits, though no such statement has been made regarding this case.

Another man of draft age died on the territory of the Saksahanskyi military enlistment office in the city of Kryvyi Rih on May 5, also reportedly due to the "rapid deterioration of his health."

Medical commissions have also come under increasing scrutiny after suspected instances of corruption and other violations.

Read also: Ukrainian court releases first prisoners to join army under new conscription rules

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The future of Evanstons groundbreaking reparations program could be in doubt after a conservative nonprofit organization filed a federal lawsuit accusing the initiative of being unconstitutional.

The suit, filed Thursday by the group Judicial Watch, names as plaintiffs six people whose relatives once lived in Evanston during a 50-year period of housing discrimination that often deprived Black residents from building wealth through homeownership and kept them segregated to a tiny enclave on the citys western edge.

None of the plaintiffs or their relatives identify as Black, the lawsuit says.

Attorneys for the six plaintiffs argue that the program awards applicants $25,000 based on their race, without having to prove they or their relatives faced housing discrimination. As such, they argue, the reparations program violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, which says all Americans are given equal protection under the law.

Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton told the Tribune that Evanstons program is just a proxy for giving out money to people based on race.

It looks to me like Evanston wants to be on the cutting edge, Fitton said. We dont want those anti-discrimination protections to be upended through these types of programs. Its important this be corrected as soon as possible so other states, localities and the federal government dont go down this path of dolling out tax money to individuals simply based on race.

Evanston spokesperson Cynthia Vargas said the city would not comment on the litigation but would vehemently defend any lawsuit brought against our citys Reparations Program.

The six named plaintiffs are Margot Flinn, Carol Johnson, Stasys Neimanas, Stephen Weiland, Barbara Regard and Henry Regard. But the lawsuit seeks to establish a class of eligible plaintiffs that could number in the tens of thousands. Fitton estimated the total damages could exceed $1 billion. The suit also asks the court to prevent the city from using race as an eligibility requirement for the program, which as of May 2 has paid out in excess of $4.5 million in reparations, meeting minutes show.

Flinn, 82, who currently lives in Florida, said three generations of her family lived in Evanston and did not experience housing discrimination. Despite this, she is concerned what the potential tax implications could be as the program expands.

Theres no free lunch in the world, she said. The moneys got to come from somebody.

Weiland, first cousin to Flinn, has lived within the same 30-mile radius his entire life and currently resides in Lake Forest. He made deliveries for his father who owned a flower shop in Evanston on Sherman Avenue even after the family moved to Skokie. His grandfather also lived in Evanston, making him a third-generation Evanstonian.

Reparations are not the way to go with helping those in need, according to Weiland, who said he considers them handouts. Instead, he argues funding should be put toward bettering local school systems and programs to provide jobs.

Thats the key to lifting up people in this country, Weiland said. Handouts dont work. I dont believe in handouts.

If the case is won on his behalf, Weiland said he would be donating the money to several Catholic private schools in Chicagoland who focus on serving underprivileged youth.

Beyond housing, the Evanston Reparations Committee is also exploring other avenues through working groups centered on education initiatives, economic development and community unity.

The program was designed to provide $25,000 payments for Black Evanstonians who were impacted by racial housing policies put in place by the city. Recipients were initially able to use the funding for housing expenses including the purchase of a new home, down payment on a mortgage or for use in home improvements.

The program was expanded in March 2023 to allow for direct cash payments after siblings Kenneth and Shelia Wideman were selected to receive benefits but could not use the money for housing purposes.

Those eligible for the program fall into one of three groups; ancestors who were Evanston residents at least 18 years of age between 1919 and 1969, direct descendants of those ancestors and current residents who can show they have experienced housing discrimination after 1969 due to city policies.

Funding for the program has been pulled from recreational cannabis sales tax as well as an additional $1 million annually from real estate transfer tax revenues for the next 10 years.

As of the May 2 Reparations Committee meeting, 129 ancestors have received money with a majority selecting direct cash payments. The committee has since moved on to disbursing funds to the direct descendant group, comprised of 454 people, and expects to send payments to about 80 people a year.

This is the second legal battle between Evanston and Justice Watch. In 2021, it sued the city in Cook County court over public records related to the fledgling reparations program. The suit was later dismissed. Its also mounted legal challenges against race-based initiatives in San Francisco and Minneapolis, among other locations.

The 14th Amendment clause was used recently to strike down a Cook County grant program for small businesses. The suit was filed by the California-based Pacific Legal Foundation.

Judicial Watch describes itself on its website as a conservative, non-partisan educational foundation, which promotes transparency, accountability and integrity in government, politics and the law. Fitton has been a frequent speaker at the Conservative Political Action Conference. The organization has filed lawsuits on a variety of issues including one in California to force the removal of ineligible voters to the rolls and an amicus brief regarding its opposition to the abortion drug mifepristone.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, May 24. The World Bank (WB) supports Tajikistan in expanding non-cash payments, Trend reports.

According to the National Bank of Tajikistan, this was said during a meeting between the Chairman of the National Bank of Tajikistan, Firdavs Tolibzoda, and representatives of the WB under the leadership of the regional director for the Central Asia region, Asad Alam.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state of the banking system and macroeconomic indicators of the country, as well as various issues of bilateral relations, development prospects, and expanding cooperation, with particular attention to utilizing existing opportunities and resources.

It was noted that the National Bank of Tajikistan constantly collaborates with international financial institutions and assists the country's financial institutions in developing and implementing the best ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices.

The parties also discussed the Development Policy Operation Project and explored new directions of partnership to support the country's socio-economic development goals in the future, including the development of non-cash payments in the economy.

Meanwhile, the number of bank payment cards in Tajikistan reached 7,111,006 by the end of March 2024, which is 30 percent more than 5,455,384 cards by the same date in 2023.
Voting carrels set up at Madison's Hawthorne Library on Election Day 2022. (Henry Redman | Wisconsin Examiner)

A constitutional amendment passed by Wisconsin voters in April that limits who is allowed to work on tasks related to the administration of an election has drawn questions from across the state on how it should be interpreted.

In recent weeks, both liberal and conservative groups have weighed in on the state Department of Justices effort to provide clarity.

The amendment was one of two approved by voters in April. Both drew criticism from Democrats that they sprouted from Republican conspiracy theories involving false claims of voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election.

One amendment banned the use of outside money for funding election administration. The other amendment, which passed in this years spring election with 58% of the vote, states that only election officials designated by law may perform tasks in the conduct of primaries, elections, and referendums. Election officials across the state have been seeking clarity on how the restriction should be applied.

Earlier this month, the Wisconsin Elections Commission began debating the topic, with Republican commissioners questioning if it should be interpreted to mean that the third-party printing companies that election clerks often contract with to print ballots will no longer be able to do so.

In that meeting, the WEC decided to begin the process of creating an administrative rule to guide how the new amendment should be applied while also starting to write more informal guidance to help election clerks apply the new law this fall. Commissioners also said they were awaiting guidance from the DOJ as it works to write an attorney generals opinion on the amendment.

At the end of April, the Dane County Corporation Counsel asked the DOJ for an opinion on the amendments interpretation, stating that municipal clerks need more information while they prepare for the presidential election in November.

While the amendment  seems simple and straightforward on its face, it is not so in application, the corporation counsel, Carlos Pabellon, writes. Who is an election official designated by law is not clearly defined in the Wisconsin Statutes. Likewise, what constitutes a task in the conduct of primaries, elections and referendums is not defined.

Pabellon writes that election official should be defined as an individual who is charged with any duties relating to the conduct of an election and that should include anyone the municipal clerk designates to assist in the election administration.

On the question of what tasks must be done by an election official, he writes that there are a number of examples in which people not employed by the municipal clerk perform crucial election work.

There are many tasks that are collaterally related to elections, he writes. Most counties contract with commercial printers to produce ballots. Municipal and county IT departments assist in maintaining the security of the software and hardware protecting the election technology such as the voter registration system and results tabulated by electronic voting equipment. The vendor of the election systems provides technical guidance regarding operation and maintenance. Municipal clerks often rely upon local law enforcement to transport sealed ballots and election materials to the county clerk and upon other municipal employees to temporarily assist with absentee ballot mailings or other election preparation activities.

Pabellon wonders if under the amendment, all of those people must be formally appointed by the clerk and execute an oath of office. He quotes Sen. Eric Wimberger (R-Green Bay), one of the authors of the amendment, saying that it would be unrealistic to interpret the provision as banning outside help for all election-related activities  theres going to be a distinction between election preparation and the conducting of the election. And I would say that the conducting of the election happens when the polls open or handling ballots.

The DOJ began the process of issuing an Attorney General opinion on the amendment, opening public comment on the question until May 13. Progressive advocacy groups called for an interpretation of the amendment that clarifies the questions surrounding the new law while not interfering with Wisconsinites right to vote. A conservative group responded by arguing current law already offers the necessary definitions.

A coalition of progressive groups, represented by the voting rights-based firm Law Forward, agreed with Pabellon.

The ability of the people to do the hard work of democracy depends in no small part on the ability of election officials, from the Wisconsin Elections Commission to the small army of local election officials who are charged with carrying out much of the work of administering elections in our state, the Law Forward letter states. With vanishingly few exceptions, those officials perform their work diligently, assiduously, and in accordance with law. But they do not, and cannot, do it alone.

In order to administer elections in Wisconsin, clerks necessarily work with any number of technical experts, attorneys, and others who assist election officials in performing their duties, the letter continues. As Dane Countys request reveals, however, an expansive reading of [the amendment]  one that would have the effect of either (1) limiting the definition of who is an election official or (2) broadening the definition of what is an election task beyond those duties specifically described in Chapters 5 through 12 of the statutes  would interfere with the ability of officials to administer free and fair elections, and thereby damage the rights of all voters to successfully participate in our democracy and the collective interest in accurate, well-run elections.

In its own letter, the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL) argues that current election laws already give enough clarity and that Pabellon was wrong to ask for a formal AG opinion.

The meanings of election official and task in the conduct of any primary, election, or referendum, are not complicated, the WILL letter argues, adding that those definitions can be found elsewhere in state law.

The WILL letter also lays out the DOJs criteria for requesting an AG opinion and states that Pabellon has not fulfilled those criteria.

With all due respect to Dane County Corporation Counsel, he seems to have ignored your Offices published criteria and asked you to give legal advice to third parties (municipal clerks) in non-specific situations and without a sufficient factual or legal background for you to render a meaningful and lawful opinion, WILL writes. He is basically asking you to anticipate potential issues and questions and write a law review article.

The post Constitutional amendment on election workers draws input from liberal, conservative groups appeared first on Wisconsin Examiner.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The long-awaited splash pad project at Unidad Park has finally begun construction, All-Tex Irrigation Splash Pads announced Thursday.

The business stated in a media release that work on the project began this week and is expected to be completed by the end of June 2024.

This project marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide inclusive, eco-friendly and engaging recreational spaces for the San Angelo community, All-Tex Irrigation Splash Pads said.

The construction comes after just under two years of planning within the business and multiple meetings with the City of San Angelos City Council discussing the implementation of splash pads in the community. All-Tex Irrigation & Supply LLC said that it started its journey in June 2022 with just an idea before forming a committee in January 2023 to present a proposal to the City Council.

City opens Municipal Pool reservations, announces reopening date

Forging a partnership with the City, All-Tex earned the support of the San Angelo Area Foundation and several other local organizations. Donations would also pour in from businesses and residents alike, boosting the projects public image and eventually making it a reality.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of numerous donors, including All-Tex Irrigations initial contribution of $100,000, we were able to proceed and acquire the necessary equipment in December 2023 and schedule the installation at Unidad Park by early summer 2024, All-Tex said.

With construction underway at Unidad Park, All-Tex is already shifting its fundraising efforts toward its second splash pad project at Kirby Park.

Looking ahead, we are currently focused on raising the funds required to complete the 2nd Splash Pad at Kirby Park, All-Tex said. We are excited about the progress we have made so far and remain committed to making a positive impact in our community.

Once the splash pads are constructed, All-Tex Irrigation Splash Pads agreement with the City states that the City will take over maintenance responsibilities for both sites.

Splash pads are a gift to our community, offered without any obligations, All-Tex said. They satisfy the desires of many San Angelo residents, are freely accessible to the public, promote fairness in use, encourage physical activity, drive eco-friendly play initiatives, and contribute to economic stimulation within our community.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
Hundreds of people, most of them Latino, attend a Hispanic Cultural Day rally outside the Oklahoma State Capitol on May 15 to protest the newly enacted House Bill 4156, which creates the criminal offense of impermissible occupation. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A second federal lawsuit was filed Thursday against a controversial Oklahoma immigration law.

Padres Unidos de Tulsa, an advocacy organization, and Ximena Monserrat Lopez Mena, a 20-year-old Oklahoma City resident and Mexican national who was brought to the United States as a baby, filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District.

The suit seeks a declaration that the law, which takes effect July 1, is unlawful, a prohibition on its enforcement and attorney fees.

The lawsuit comes two days after the federal government filed a similar suit seeking to invalidate House Bill 4156.

Both suits allege the measure violates the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Immigration matters are reserved for Congress, the suits allege.

The measure creates a new state system to regulate immigration that completely bypasses and conflicts within the federal system, Thursdays suit said. It allows state officers to arrest, detain, and expel from Oklahoma noncitizens who are convicted of the new state crimes  all without any direction, input, or involvement whatsoever from federal officials.

The measure banishes large categories of immigrants who are entitled to remain in the United States while their cases are pending, the suit said.

The lawsuit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Oklahoma, National Immigration Law Center and law firm Rivas & Associates against Attorney General Gentner Drummond, Public Safety Commissioner Tim Tipton, Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna and Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler.

Neither the Biden administration nor the ACLU will keep Oklahoma from working to ensure public safety, Drummond said. Our state has a sovereign right to protect our people, and I will vigorously defend our law in court.

Drummond encouraged lawmakers to pass the law.

Everyday people are suffering from discrimination, mistreatment, and isolation as a result of unjust and illogical laws and attitudes, said Lorena Rivas, an attorney with the Tulsa-based law firm Rivas & Associates.

House Bill 4156, by House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, and Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, was signed last month. It takes effect July 1.

It creates a new crime called impermissible occupation for willfully entering the state without legal authorization to be in the United States.

The first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by one year in county jail and a fine of up to $500 or both.

The person would be required to leave the state within 72 hours.

A second offense is a felony with up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000 or both.

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The post Controversial Oklahoma immigration law draws second legal challenge appeared first on Oklahoma Voice.
Lucy Letby, the infamous child serial killer, has lost her final chance at appealing her murder convictions.

According to multiple sources, the former neonatal nurse attempted to push four different grounds of appeal, each arguing that a trial judge had wrongly refused her application. However, this move failed in the Court of Appeal on Friday.

Lucy Letby's Appeal Plans Are Officially Over

MEGA

Dame Victoria Sharp, Lord Justice Holroyde, and Lady Justice Lambert, a panel of three of England's most senior judges at the Court of Appeal in London, have officially rejected Letby's application to appeal her case.

The full reasons for the judge's decision were not made public for legal reasons, as well as the details of Letby's appeal bid. However, sources reported Dame Victoria had declared:

"Having heard her application, we have decided to refuse leave to appeal on all grounds and refuse all associated applications. A full judgment will be handed down in due course."

The senior judges first received Letby's appeal bid in April at a two-and-a-half-day hearing. There, Dame Victoria revealed the alleged child murderer's appeal was argued on four points related to the judge at her trial refusing her application.

Why The Judge Refused Letby's Appeal Application

MEGA

Shortly after her trial ended at Manchester Crown Court in August 2023, Letby reportedly applied for permission to appeal her convictions. However, a judge dismissed her bid after reviewing her arguments.

According to sources, the legal umpire refused her application because he deemed her arguments a paper exercise. After losing the first stage of her application, Letby's attorneys renewed it before the panel of judges at the Court of Appeal.

However, the Court of Appeal judges' refusal cemented the end of Letby's appeal process. Now, the former neonatal nurse has one legal battle left to face  the retrial of one count of attempted murder.

The case is scheduled to take place at Manchester Crown Court in June over the crime of attempting to murder a baby girl, known as Child K, in February 2016.

BBC, The Telegraph and The Standard all reported.

Some Social Media Users Support The Panel's Rejection

Lucy Letby should have been allowed an appeal against her convictions.

There are serious concerns and there should now be a re-trial. pic.twitter.com/Bd4Jx56hkw  David Kurten (@davidkurten) May 24, 2024

News of Letby's appeal rejection received mixed reactions from social media users on X, with some supporting the judges' decision. One individual applauded the judgment in favor of the former nurse's victims, writing:

"I'm so glad that Lucy Letby has lost her bid to appeal against her convictions for murdering seven babies. This is a good day for the families of her victims. I hope she rots in jail #LucyLetby."

Another supporter echoed similar sentiments chiming in, "Lucy Letby denied permission for baby murders appeal - The judiciary making the right call, whatever next! Why don't they just throw away the key!"

"Imagine thinking you have a chance after her crimes. The audacity is unbelievable," a third declared, while a fourth penned:

"Lucy Letby should be concentrating on her jail time. No point even contemplating on getting an appeal. There just isn't. What she did was messed up. What she did can't be forgiven."

Other X Users Share Conspiracy Theories About Letby's Case

Wrongful convictions are sadly common. This could happen to you. Ask yourself if you would want Lucy Letby to have an appeal and retrial if she was your relative or friend. #lucyletby pic.twitter.com/TCiivwASiH  Diamond? (@nur796530601) May 15, 2024

While many supported the appeal refusal, others claimed something was wrong with Letby's case. These conspiracy theorists implied influential figures were trying to condemn the former nurse for their crimes, with someone speculating:

"If she killed 7, what about the other ten deaths she wasn't involved in and the diabolical stillbirth rate? This is a cover-up for corporate manslaughter."

"To understand how deeply incompetent the police investigation into Lucy Letby was, consider that Cheshire constabulary mistook LDwhich stands for "long day," a twelve-hour shiftfor a secret code about murdering babies. It would be funny if it weren't so tragic," another X user argued.

A third implored others to question the panel's decision, writing, "Wrongful convictions are sadly common. This could happen to you. Ask yourself if you would want Lucy Letby to have an appeal and retrial if she was your relative or friend. #lucyletby."

Lucy Letby Was Sentenced To Life In Prison

FREEDOM FOR LUCY LETBY! pic.twitter.com/PMcm1w8TVe  Lucy Letby: The Case for Innocence (@letby_lucy60240) May 17, 2024

Last August, The Blast reported that Letby was convicted of killing seven infants and attempting to kill six others between 2015 and 2016. During a 10-month trial, she was found guilty of 14 out of 22 charges, including a "cruel, calculated, and cynical campaign of child murder."

Judge Justice Goss declared that Letby's crimes were too severe to grant her early release provisions. Therefore, he determined that she deserved "a whole life order on each and every offense" and would spend the rest of her life in prison.

Pascale Jones from the Crown Prosecution Service celebrated the judgment in favor of the grieving families, noting that Letby "will never again be able to inflict the suffering she did while working as a neonatal nurse."
Reality Check is a Fresno Bee series holding those in power to account and shining a light on their decisions. Have a tip? Email tips@fresnobee.com.

A man convicted of multiple sexual crimes against a child was released into Madera County on Wednesday to live with family members after a Merced judge ruled that he no longer poses a risk  despite three court-appointed doctors saying otherwise.

Ciro Camacho, 68, served time in prison and then nearly two decades in the California State Hospital in Coalinga. He was convicted in 1993 of two counts of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 years of age and one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child.

Merced Superior Court Judge Stephanie Jamieson ruled May 16 that Camacho could be released from the state hospital and would be on parole for 20 years.

But Sally Moreno, the Madera County district attorney, told The Fresno Bee on Thursday that it was later determined Camachos time on parole was already completed.

This decision is directly sending a convicted child molester back into our society with no monitoring, no accountability, Moreno said.

Merced Superior Court Executive Officer Amanda Toste did not immediately respond to The Bees emails Thursday requesting comment about the ruling.

Court records show Camacho was committed to the California State Hospital in 2005, when he was determined to be a sexually violent predator. The legal classification applies to offenders found to have mental disorders that make them likely to re-offend after release from prison and authorizes their involuntary commitment, according to court records.

Last Thursday, the Merced judge ruled that Camacho should no longer be classified as a sexually violent predator, according to the Merced County District Attorneys Office, which announced in social media posts that it argued against his release.

The District Attorneys Office presented evidence from three experts who testified they believed that Camacho should still be classified as a Sexually Violent Predator and was not safe to be released, the office said on social media.

The Merced County District Attorneys Office did not respond to The Bees requests for comment Wednesday and Thursday.

To say that Im extremely disappointed is an understatement that she would disregard three state-appointed experts and release this dangerous individual into our community, Moreno, the Madera County district attorney, said about the judges ruling.

Moreno confirmed that Camacho made statements that he has family in Madera and plans to stay with them. Megans Law, the states online database that tracks convicted sex offenders, did not show an updated location for Camacho on Thursday. The Madera County Sheriffs Office told The Bee on Thursday that Camacho has made an appointment with the office to register his new address, as required by law.

We are fully committed to enforcing all state registration requirements and keeping the public informed, Sheriff Tyson Pogue said last week on social media.

State sought indefinite commitment

In 2005, Camacho was involuntarily committed to the California State Hospital in Coalinga for two years after a trial that began in 2002, court records show. In 2006, an amendment to the states Sexually Violent Predator Act allowed for these offenders to be committed indefinitely instead of for renewable two-year terms.

The state filed a petition seeking Camachos indefinite commitment to a state facility in 2007. Camachos re-commitment trial was delayed for years and his attorneys in 2022 argued in court in that he was denied his right to speedy proceedings.

Throughout those years, Camachos case underwent dozens of hearings  sometimes several dozen per year  and numerous doctors continued to find that he still met the conditions to be classified as a sexually violent predator.

In 2015, one out of four expert reports concluded  for the first time ever  that Camacho no longer met the criteria for commitment, and two of the other reports seemed to suggest he might qualify for conditional release in the future, court records state.

Camacho was not personally present for hearings between 2010 and 2018. He first demanded a speedy trial in 2018.

The California Supreme Court ruled in August that Camacho was not denied a speedy trial because the continuation of his case was caused mostly by his own legal teams requests throughout the years.
Cop killer Markeith Loyd files appeal with US Supreme Court

A man sentenced to death for killing an Orlando police officer has appealed his conviction to the US Supreme Court.

Markeith Loyd shot and killed Lieutenant Debra Clayton in 2017.

A judge sentenced him to death five years later, following a jurys recommendation.

PREVIOUS: Markeith Loyd sentenced to death in killing of Orlando police Lt Debra Clayton

A judge sentenced Markeith Loyd to death in 2022 for the 2017 murder of Orlando police Lt. Debra Clayton.

Now, a petition from Loyds attorney argues that a prosecutor misled the jury during sentencing proceedings.

In February, the Florida Supreme Court upheld Loyds conviction.

PREVIOUS: Florida Supreme Court denies cop killer Markeith Loyds request for death sentence appeal hearing

Loyd is also serving a life sentence for the murder of his pregnant ex-wife, Sade Dixon.

Stay with WFTV.com for updates on this story.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) said Friday that he plans to run for reelection in 2026 no matter the result of his run to become Republican Senate leader later this year.

Cornyn, who is in the midst of his fourth term, told The Dallas Morning News of his plans.

Yes.  I mean, God willing, he told the paper. Inshallah.

Cornyns plans come despite a potential challenge from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R). The two have found themselves embroiled in a public spat after Cornyn announced his bid to replace Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) atop the conference.

Paxton posted on social media that Republicans deserve better in their next leader and Texans deserve another conservative senator, adding that the longtime senator wouldnt be an effective leader since he is anti-Trump, anti-gun, and will be focused on his highly competitive primary campaign in 2026.

Cornyn responded by telling Paxton it would be hard to run from prison. The Texas AG has been under investigation for a number of reasons throughout the past decade, including over securities fraud.

The sitting senator indicated he is not too concerned about a challenge by Paxton.

I dont stay awake at night worrying about it, he told the Morning News.

In his last reelection fight, Cornyn defeated Democrat M.J. Hegar by nearly 10 percentage points and garnered nearly 6 million votes  the most ever received by a nonjudicial statewide candidate in the Lone Star State.

Cornyn has long been a top ally of McConnell, having served as the No. 2 in GOP leadership from 2013-19 before being term-limited.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Kremlin is purposefully removing senior officials from the Russian Defence Ministry and has already extended this effort to dismiss high-ranking officers in charge of Russian combat operations in Ukraine.

Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW)

Quote: "The Kremlin is likely using the guise of corruption charges as an excuse to hide the real reasons for ousting specific individuals from the MoD who have fallen from favor, as ISW has recently assessed."

Details: The Investigative Committee of Russia announced on 23 May the arrest of Lieutenant General Vadim Shamarin, Deputy Chief of the General Staff and the Head of the Main Communications Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces, and Vladimir Verteletsky, the Head of the Department of Public Procurement of the Russian Defence Ministry.

Shamarin is accused of receiving a bribe of at least 36 million roubles (about US$392,000), and two people involved in the case from the Russian telecommunications industry have agreed to testify against him.

Verteletsky is accused of corruption and receiving a large bribe, which resulted in a total loss of 70 million roubles (US$763,000).

Five senior Russian Defence Ministry officials and former military commanders were arrested on corruption charges following the arrest of Russian Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov that occurred on 24 April.

A Russian insider source previously claimed that six more Defence Ministry officials are planning to resign after former Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu was removed from the post.

Russian ultra-nationalist military bloggers also claimed that the Russian Ministry of Defence fired Lieutenant General Sukhrab Akhmedov, the commander of the 20th Combined Arms Army (Moscow Military District). ISW could not confirm Akhmedov's dismissal, but the announcement of his resignation is drawing attention as it would be the first dismissal of an officer actively commanding Russian forces in Ukraine in a recent wave of dismissals. Currently, the 20th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade is focused on offensive operations on the Lyman front and was unable to achieve significant tactical success in this area during the offensive on the Kharkiv-Luhansk front in the winter and spring of 2024.

Official statements from the Kremlin and speculation by bloggers about arrests and changes in command indicate that more senior officers of the Russian Federation may be at risk of dismissal.

To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 23 May:

The Kremlin is pursuing a concerted effort to remove senior Russian defence officials and has likely expanded this effort to senior officers commanding Russian combat operations in Ukraine.

Russian border guards removed buoys in Estonian waters of the Narva River, which demarcates the Estonian-Russian international border, likely to set conditions to further question maritime borders and test NATO resolve.

Select US officials are reportedly pressing for a reconsideration of the White House's current policy prohibiting Ukraine from using US-provided weapons to strike within Russia.

Polish Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pawel Wronski stated on 23 May that Poland is considering using its air defence to protect Ukrainian airspace against Russian strikes.

Ukraines Defence Intelligence conducted a series of drone strikes against Russian defense industrial facilities in the Republic of Tatarstan on 23 May.

Iranian leaders have used the occasion of President Ebrahim Raisi's funeral events to emphasise close ties with Armenia even as tensions between Yerevan and Moscow continue to increase.

Ukrainian forces advanced near Lukiantsi and Kreminna, and Russian forces advanced near Berestove, Chasiv Yar, Avdiivka, Donetsk City, and Velyka Novosilka.

The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) proposed applying regular military punishments to volunteers, likely as part of the MoD's continued formalisation efforts.

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DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, May 24. The Chinese Liaoning Lide Company and Tajikistan's Sughd region discussed the possibilities of implementing renewable energy projects in this northern part of the country, Trend reports.

According to the official website of the region's government, the meeting was attended by the Chairman of Sughd Region, Rajabboy Ahmadzoda, and the delegation from Liaoning Lide.

During the meeting, issues of mutual cooperation and the gradual expansion thereof, as well as the development and implementation of joint projects, were discussed.

While presenting the opportunities in Sughd, the chairman emphasized that the region is known as the "valley of opportunities" and that a number of programs and projects, large and small, are being implemented for the development of the socio-economic sphere of the region.

In turn, the head of Liaoning, Lide Zhang Qinmin, noted that it is possible to produce electricity from the sun and wind in the region using modern technologies.

To note, Liaoning Lide was founded in 2002 and is mainly engaged in the production of devices and equipment for the energy industry. The company has been working fruitfully in Central Asia for six years and has begun construction of a power plant in Uzbekistan that generates electricity from wind.
KHARKIVRussias sudden ground invasion of the Kharkiv region came as a shock to the country that has been plagued by the two-year-long conflict. For well over a year, Ukraine had managed to keep the Kremlins military from crossing its northern border between Kharkiv and Russia after it launched its 2022 summer counteroffensive, which saw Kyiv reclaim masses of land in a short period of time.

Since Russian forces retreated, residents of the Kharkiv region had found some sense of normal amidst the constant air raid sirens and frequent attacks in Ukraines second biggest city. On May 10, that all came crumbling down, and now Kharkivs residents, some of whom already felt that Ukraines defeat of Russia was unlikely, are once more living in a frontline town. Ukraine has reached a turning point and its unclear if a Russian victory can still be thwarted.

A Steadfast Patriotism

First, the good news. Over the last two years, Ukraine has remained strong in the face of its adversaries. Early predictions from journalists and scholars claimed that Kyiv would fall in a matter of days and that Russia would swiftly take control of all of Ukraine.

In the beginning, the future of Ukraine seemed bleak as Russia occupied cities like Kherson and Mariupol, and the streets of major cities like Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Kramatorsk were filled with battles.

But Kyivs military warded off advances across much of the country, and central and western Ukraine have become relative safe zones. Patriotism remains high in much of the country and Ukrainians continue to raise money for the armed forces with constant crowdfunding efforts ever-present on social media. Masses of Ukrainians continue to support the countrys fight for freedom. The effort from volunteers has been extraordinary. The Hospitallers, a Ukrainian paramedic volunteer group, for example, risk their lives on the frontlines every day to provide life-saving medical care.

A Ukrainian soldier operating a drone from a trench. Anna Conkling

Some of the professional units have become household names or national heroes and symbols of freedom. One of these is Achilles, a drone battalion in the 92nd brigade that is so exclusive it only accepts the very best soldiers from its application process. On the Ukrainian Railways, an ad for Achilles shows its commander, Yuri Fedorenko, standing in an open field as he directs drones in the direction of Russian military positions. The ad ends with the drones landing behind a set of trees, seemingly hitting their intended target, and ACHILLES in yellow bolded words closing the scene.

Putins Surprise Attack Leaves Ukraine in Incredibly Difficult Position

The Daily Beast visited various Achilles locations, including a drone warehouse in Kostyantynivka. A platoon sergeant major who goes by the call sign Zub said that volunteers, and civilians who work with Ukraines Ministry of Digital Transformation are spending their own money to buy drones. The drones, which the military goes through at a rapid pace, can cost anywhere from $15,000 to over $30,000. Zub says they have really relied on those individual donors who supplied the brigades with drones but he is worried people will no longer be able to afford to help.

Its already the third year of the war. Lets be honest. Our economy is falling. People who were very active at the beginning have already exhausted their resources. And to make enough money to help us, people are getting less and less, he added.

Now that the U.S. has ended its hiatus on supplying aid to Ukraine after passing a deal worth $61 billion, theres hope that the U.S. may send more drones directly. [If] America will supply us with drones, then maybe we will have more opportunities, Zub said.

Running Out of Men

The victory on Capitol Hill was met with cheers throughout Ukraine, but it made some feel frustrated that the war would continue even longer.

Many of the men fighting on the front are exhausted , and even with new weapons, they fear for how long they can continue to fight before they end up dead or severely wounded. Morale is at its lowest ebb.

In Kharkiv, one soldier named Leo told The Daily Beast that many of the men fighting alongside him on the new front in the region are much older than him and their health is in a fragile state. Everyone is exhausted, no one is ready to fight. Right now, we have 20 people left in the company, maybe even less. Of those, half still need medical help, which they [government] dont want to give us, he said.

Destroyed homes in Kharkiv. Anna Conkling

Leo was sitting at an indoor market in Kharkiv at 8:30 in the morning as we spoke. The market was quiet as many of Kharkivs residents had not yet begun their day, but the vicinity was scattered with soldiers who drank cups of coffee with their friends or smoked cigarettes outside. He had just dropped wounded soldiers at a nearby hospital and said he was hanging out in Kharkiv for the time being.

Leo sat hunched over a steaming bowl of borscht, a Ukrainian soup, as he spoke. He fears he has a concussion after a mine detonated near him. Right now, he believes the battles in the Kharkiv region are Stationary. [Russians] are polishing off everything with artillery on those positions. We were first on the closest positions. Then we were pushed back a bit, given a few days to rest, but they are also shelling there, but not as often. Its all day long, shooting, all day long, artillery.

I just want to go home, said Leo.

The countrys military is facing constant setbacks as Russias military advances. Ukraine is having a hard time recruiting new soldiers, and a poll by InfoSapiens, a Ukrainian research agency, stated that just 35 percent of men not already fighting are willing to serve. Ukraines military has had to resort to increasingly unpopular measures to ensure that there are still able bodies fighting on the frontlines.

A Ukrainian drone. Anna Conkling

Men from the age of 18 to 60 have been, for the most part, unable to leave the country, part of a martial law mandate that has been in place since the early days of the war. The restriction applies to all men, regardless of whether they have illnesses or disabilities that prohibit them from joining the military. Over the last two years, The Daily Beast has spoken to dozens who believe that the law is unfair and has led many to feel depressed and trapped in the countrywomen can freely come and go.

On April 2, Zelensky passed a law lowering the military draft age from 27 to 25, a move that was unpopular across Ukraine. In recent weeks, Zelenskys government has also tightened restrictions on men living abroad in the hopes that they will return home; granted parole to prisoners with less than three years left on their sentence if they join the military; and enforced large mobilization efforts.

On Sunday, major mobilization changes significantly impacted Ukrainian men, especially those living near the frontlines. All men aged 18 to 60 must have military documents with them at all times and present them at any request from law enforcement. Men of fighting age must register their address, phone number, email address, and all other personal data within 60 days of the new law. Ukrainian civilians must relinquish their vehicles to the military if necessary for up to one month, and some men fear that in the near future they may not be able to freely leave their region.

A Kharkiv resident named Vladimir, 46, told The Daily Beast that he is angry about the new restrictions on his freedom. First, you need to get documents, and theres no guarantee that I wont be immediately drafted when I go to the military [office], and then I will have to report for duty and fight in a month.

Vladimir is the father of two children, one is 11 and the other is two. The youngest has never known a peaceful Ukraine, because he was born during the war. Although he is too young to understand why his country has been invaded, Vladimir said lately he has started running to the corridor during explosions.

Vladimir and his family want to move somewhere safer, away from the new Kharkiv frontlines. He and his wife had planned to go to Sumy, another border town nearly a three hours drive away from Kharkiv, but now the future of it too remains unknown. The couple are considering moving to Dnirpo, further in the east towards Donetsk, but Vladimir said Theres no guarantee that they wont tell you to serve there as well.

Can Ukraine Fight Them Off Again?

As Ukraines military desperately tries to find new recruits, it is also facing an unprecedented Russian counter-offensive for which it had not been properly prepared. For weeks leading up to Russias counteroffensive, Kremlin officials, propaganda media outlets, and think tanks like the Institute for The Study of War [ISW] have said that Russia intended to seize Kharkiv city to create a sanitary zone in Ukraine, which they claimed would protect Russian border settlements from Ukrainian strikes, according to the ISW.

Moscow launched its offensive with more than 30,000 troops, and Zelensky said on Friday that Russian forces may advance as much as six miles into the Kharkiv region in just one week. Its the fastest progress seen since the early days of the war and there are some analysts who fear that Ukraine wont be able to hold back the might of the Russian army this time around, especially if they attack on other fronts at the same time as they are pushing into Kharkiv.

Sanctions Be Damned, Putins War Machine Is Still Powered by U.S. Parts

Last month, Oleksandr Pivnenko, the commander of Ukraines National Guard, told the Ukrainian outlet Liga.net that Russia would need years to occupy Kharkiv city, but they are already making significant gains. Over 7,500 Ukrainians have had to evacuate from their homes in the border region of Kharkiv, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. Fighting is especially heavy in Vovchansk, a city 46 miles from the center of Kharkiv. Serhii Bolvino, the head of the investigative department of the police of Kharkiv Oblast, said that Russian soldiers in Vovchansk have taken captive up to 40 Ukrainian civilians, mostly older citizens, and are now using them as human shields.

Elderly women evacuating. Anna Conkling

Kyiv said that 60 percent of Vovchansk is still under their control, but videos show that the city has been nearly leveled. The Daily Beast met with half a dozen refugees from Vovchansk since May 10, and they recounted the horrors of the second invasion. Most of them had already lived under Russian occupation in 2022. When Russia first took the city, the refugees all said they came more or less calmly, without targeting civilians or aiming to destroy all signs of life. This time, however, they said the Russians have been malicious in their fighting, showing little care of who lives and who dies, and wreaking havoc on a city that has been terrorized by the Kremlin for over two years.

While residents from the front lines are fleeing to Kharkiv, many who lived in the city center are now leaving for safer regions as the counteroffensive looms over Ukraines second-largest city. Should the entire oblast fall, it could set up an opportunity for Russia to take control of all of eastern Ukraine, something it has been attempting for ten years. Should Russia effectively split the country in two, it could be all but impossible for Kyiv to regain control of its entire territory, not least since we could be a matter of months away from the return of President Trump, who is likely to push for a negotiated settlement at the earliest opportunity. If Russia is able to make swift gains before the November elections in the U.S. it would be negotiating from a hugely strengthened position.

At the beginning of May, Kharkiv was primarily made up of civilians, but over the last two weeks, the city has been flooded with soldiers. The number of troops in the region could mean that Russia will not be able to break through into the city without a massive fight, but it remains unclear how the deployment of troops to this new front will affect Ukraines strength in Donbas or on the southern front, where the majority of soldiers have been stationed throughout the war.

Alexander, 33, said that he and his wife are trying to find an alternative of where they can go that is away from Kharkiv. Alexanders wife and his young child could leave Ukraine and go somewhere abroad, far from the war. But, he said his wife refuses to leave him and now they are searching for another region of Ukraine to move to.

In the past, Alexander had used a certificate from a doctor that showed he was too ill to join the army, but now he says it no longer works. He is afraid of being drafted into the military and he is afraid Kharkiv could be seized by Russia. This is my land. Everything is possible. They said there wouldnt be a war. Well, it started, he said.I dont want to take up arms. I dont want to kill anyone. I just want to live.

Alexanders point is entirely understandable, but Ukraine desperately needs more people to fight or thousands more will die as Putin drives this new offensive deep into the country.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Court in Khmelnytskyi Oblast releases 50 prisoners to join army after new conscription law

A court in Ukraine's Khmelnytskyi Oblast released another 50 prisoners on the condition that they join the military under the new conscription law, the court's press service reported on May 24.

Ukraine's parliament passed a bill on May 8 permitting those convicted of certain offenses to serve in the military, paving the way for the voluntary mobilization of prisoners. President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the bill into law on May 17.

A court in Khmelnytskyi Oblast released the first two prisoners under the newly implemented law on May 22.

According to the court, those released are predominantly young men who were sentenced to prison for crimes like theft.

The prisoners released most recently reportedly said they have no military experience but are confident that they will quickly gain the skills required.

Several prisoners said a motivating factor was that some of their friends and relatives, including those serving in the military, were killed in Russia's war against Ukraine, according to the court.

Those released will reportedly be supervised by the military units they enlist in and cannot leave their units without their commanders' permission.

Justice Minister Denys Maliuska said earlier in May that Ukraine could fill its ranks with as many as 20,000 convicts in a move that would also help ease overcrowding in Ukrainian prisons.

More than 3,000 convicts have applied for conditional release to join Ukraine's Armed Forces, according to the Justice Ministry.

Read also: Defense Ministry: 700,000 draft-aged men update military documents after launch of online app

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Court orders Kolomoisky to remain in custody until July 22

The Shevchenkivskyi district court in Kyiv ruled on May 24 that oligarch Ihor Kolomoisky must remain in custody until July 22 with an alternative of a Hr 1.96 billion ($49 million) bail, the Unian news agency reported.

Kolmoyskiy's bail was last reduced on April 22 from Hr 2.4 billion ($60.9 million) to 1.96 billion.

Kolomoisky, one of Ukraine's most infamous business tycoons, was arrested on Sept. 2, 2023, for alleged fraud and money laundering related to his oil and gas holdings. His bail was initially set at Hr 509 million (now $13.2 million).

The Prosecutor General's Office announced on May 8 that Kolomoisky was also suspected of ordering the murder of the head of a law firm more than 20 years ago in Crimea. The next day, the Kyiv court authorized an arrest warrant for him.

The oligarch has denied the accusation.

Kolomoisky, aged 61, has repeatedly complained about his health issues while in detention. His petition to change the terms of his pretrial detention to house arrest due to his health issues was denied last November.

Read also: Russian court says it confiscated assets allegedly linked to oligarch Kolomoisky

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
CPD: 66-year-old woman last seen in South Shore found

CHICAGO  Chicago police say a 66-year-old woman in need of medical attention has been found.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
DENVER (KDVR)  A crash on Interstate 25 Friday afternoon was causing backups as many Coloradans hit the road early for Memorial Day weekend.

Denver weather: 3 things to know ahead of Memorial Day weekend

Colorado State Patrol told FOX31 that a two-vehicle crash that happened around 12:40 p.m. was blocking three lanes of traffic on northbound I-25 near 84th Avenue.

One vehicle was on its roof after the crash, but luckily CSP said there were no injuries reported.

As of 1:30 p.m., the two left lanes were closed between U.S. Highway 36 and 84th Avenue, causing backups that could be seen on Colorado Department of Transportation cameras. All lanes have since been reopened and traffic is moving in the area.

A crash on Interstate 25 Friday afternoon was causing backups as many Coloradans hit the road early for Memorial Day weekend. (Colorado Department of Transportation)

A crash on Interstate 25 Friday afternoon was causing backups as many Coloradans hit the road early for Memorial Day weekend. (Colorado Department of Transportation)

Google reported a 17-minute delay in the area at 1:33 p.m. CDOT was on the scene to control traffic.

Things to do for Memorial Day weekend near Denver

Expect increased traffic through the weekend

AAA estimates that 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home between Thursday and Monday, with most travelers opting to drive.

AAA said the peak Memorial Day congestion is expected on I-25 on Sunday at about 4:15 p.m. The increased traffic is expected to make the commute from Fort Collins to Denver 56% longer than usual, according to AAA.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Crime Reports: Several victims report money transferred out banks, cash app accounts in Abilene

Editors Note: The following arrest and incident reports were supplied by the Abilene Police Department. All information below comes from reports made by responding officers, and all suspects are considered not guilty unless determined otherwise in a court of law.

Incidents

2900 block of Old Anson Road  Criminal Mischief

A victim reported an unknown suspect broke out the back passenger window of their SUV with a bb or pellet gun.

1000 block of E Hwy 80  Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information

A victim allowed a suspect to use his cellphone then later learned she sent money to herself via cash app.

3100 block of S 21st Street  Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse

A victim reported $1,000 was charged to his debit card without permission.

4500 block of S 1st Street  Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information

A victim reported funs were fraudulently transferred from her bank account to a known offender.

1900 block of Antilley Road  Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information

A victim reported $400 was transferred from her cash app account to another one.

1700 block of Denali Drive  Theft of Property

A victim reported buying a vehicle but never receiving it.

4500 block of S 1st Street  Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information

A victim reported funds were fraudulently transferred from his bank account to another persons.

4500 block of S 1st Street  Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying Information

A known suspect attempted to cash a stolen check at a check cashing business.

4300 block of Sayles Boulevard  Assault Family Violence

A suspect is accused of assaulting his girlfriend at a south Abilene hotel.

1400 block of Locust Street  Criminal Trespass

A victim reported a known suspect trespassed on her property.

5800 block of Victory Drive  Assault Family Violence

A suspect was arrested for assault family violence in south Abilene.

2100 block of Russell Avenue  Terroristic Threat of Family/Household

A report was taken for terroristic threat and criminal mischief in south Abilene.

2900 block of Old Anson Road  Aggravated Assault Deadly Weapon

A victim reported a suspect hit him with a deadly weapon.

3000 block of West Lake Road  Aggravated Assault Deadly Weapon

A report was taken for aggravated assault deadly weapon. The victim had minor injuries.

2200 block of Fannin Street  Assault Family Violence

Assault family violence was reported in north Abilene.

1800 block of McCracken Street  Assault Family Violence

A report for assault family violence was taken in south Abilene.

1300 block of Locust Street  Burglary of Habitation

A victim reported an unknown suspect gained entry to his shed and stole a lawn mower and weed cutter.

6100 block of Texas Avenue  Theft of Property

Several items of identifying information were reported stolen.

Arrests

Whitni Battreall  Warrant

Michelle Ballard  Warrant

Daniel Campa  Assault Family Violence

Amy Stephens  Assault Family Violence

Lusero Trujillo  Possession of Controlled Substance, Warrant

Congetta Lyons  Aggravated Assault Deadly Weapon

Isaiah Pena  Warrant

Mekhi Dornin  Public Intoxication

Devlin Hyland  Warrant

Sylvia Gonzales  Public Intoxication

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
Crime victims may get fewer services as federal aid drops. States weigh how to help.

An attendee looks at a series of banners for the National Crime Victims Rights Week Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall on April 24, 2024, in Washington, D.C. The Justice Departments Office for Victims of Crime held the event to pay tribute to victims and survivors of crime and individuals who provide service and support. (Anna Moneymaker | Getty Images)

Groups that assist crime victims across the United States are bracing for significant financial pain after the amount available from a major federal victim services fund plunged $700 million this year.

Congress recently lowered spending to $1.2 billion from the fund, which provides grants to nonprofit and local programs across the country.

This latest round of cuts has sparked widespread concern among district attorneys offices, rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters, child advocacy centers and law enforcement agencies that offer victim support services. Many of these organizations and agencies now expect to have to close locations, lay off staff and cut back on services.

Meanwhile, the drop in dollars has many experts and advocates rethinking the current, uncertain system of helping crime victims. How much federal money is available every year is determined by a complex three-year average of court fees, fines and penalties that have accumulated  a number that has plummeted by billions during the past six years. The fund does not receive any taxpayer dollars.

Karrie Delaney, director of federal affairs for the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, said the slowdown of court cases during the COVID-19 pandemic and the last administration not prosecuting as many corporate cases has affected the fund more than usual.

RAINN is the countrys largest anti-sexual-violence organization. It operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) alongside local organizations and runs the U.S. Defense Departments Safe Helpline. It also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, according to its website.

I think whats important from RAINNs perspective is the actual impact that those fluctuations have on the survivors that we support and organizations and service providers across the country, Delaney said.

When the federal cap decreases, she said, organizations that support crime victims often turn to state and local governments to make up the gap. And a lot of the times there isnt enough money to do that.

Victim services providers say that smaller groups or branches, particularly those in rural towns or counties, are at an especially high risk of closing because of the expected cutbacks. Many rely solely on federal dollars.

Shakyra Diaz, the chief of federal advocacy with the Alliance for Safety and Justice, which advocates for crime victims, said many groups are seriously in a situation where they may have to close their doors, they may have to cut services, they may have to cut staff, they may have to tell crime victims, I cannot help you right now. You have to wait six months.

In at least three states  California, Colorado and Maine  state legislators have proposed bills that would create new avenues for state-based funding for victim services. A couple of bills would inject general state dollars into victim services to offset the federal cuts, while one would create a new tax on firearms and ammunition, and yet another would increase criminal penalties on corporations. The money collected from taxes or fines would then go toward supporting victim services.

The federal crime victims fund gets its money from fines, forfeited bonds and financial penalties in certain federal cases.

The year-by-year uncertainty around how much money will come from federal crime cases, which directly affects how much will be available to states to distribute to victim services providers, makes it challenging for groups to budget over the long term.

Services for victims and resources for victim services are already so tight. And so when youre talking about taking a pot of money thats already stretched at its best and making it smaller  its frankly terrifying, said Renee Williams, the executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime.

The federal fund was established in 1984 under the Victims of Crime Act, known as VOCA. Congress tried to stabilize the fund in 2000 by setting an annual cap on withdrawals. The cap remained below $1 billion a year until 2015, but Congress raised it to $2.3 billion that year, and in 2018 it peaked at $4.4 billion.

Then, the cap plummeted, and by fiscal year 2023, Congress had set it at $1.9 billion, according to data from the U.S. Department of Justice.

This past March, Congress again lowered the cap, to $1.2 billion, a drop of more than 35%. The cuts will not take effect until October of this year, when the federal governments next fiscal year begins.

Victim services groups say that the demand for help has continued to surge. Some anticipate the grant process to become even more competitive.

Theyre asking state lawmakers for help.

State legislation

For Stand Up Placer, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking in Placer County, California, the anticipated federal cuts are expected to slash about $700,000, or 22%, of the groups budget, according to Cheryl Marcell, the organizations CEO.

Some of the groups services, such as legal counseling, are likely to be scaled back. Instead of serving the current caseload of 500, the group may only be able to accommodate 200 clients, Marcell said.

In California, local district attorneys offices are grappling with how to address this funding shortfall, according to Jonathan Raven, assistant CEO of the California District Attorneys Association and former Yolo County chief deputy district attorney.

Offices are considering options such as laying off staff, requesting local funding or scaling back services altogether, Raven told Stateline.

The people that are victimized that are the most vulnerable are no longer going to get the services that they should expect and they do deserve, Raven said. Its really going to be a significant impact across California and across the country.

State legislators in California have proposed two bills aimed at mitigating the federal cuts.

One of the bills would require state supplemental funding whenever the federal VOCA award is reduced more than 10% than the amount awarded the prior year. The bill is in committee.

The other bill, which is still under consideration in the Assembly, would increase fines levied on corporations convicted of misdemeanor and felony offenses. These fines would be used to fund a new California Crime Victims Fund.

In Colorado, the legislature passed a bill proposing a more permanent state funding source for victim services through a 9% gun and ammunition excise tax. The tax revenue would be spent on crime victim support services, mental health services, school safety and gun violence prevention.

The bill is now headed to Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, who has until June 7 to sign or veto it, according to his press secretary. If he signs it, the measure will go before voters on the November ballot.

Meanwhile, in Maine, Democratic Gov. Janet Mills signed a budget bill in April that includes a one-time allotment of $6 million for victim services.

Effects on services for victims

There are about 12,200 victim services providers in the United States, with nearly a quarter of them located in the countrys most populous states  California, Florida, Texas and New York, according to the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics 2017 census.

Ohio has more than 400 victim services providers, many of which receive funding from the federal crime victims fund. Last year, the state received $46.6 million.

But for fiscal year 2024, Ohio has been awarded just $26.7 million, a 42.8% decrease from 2023 and a 77% decrease from 2018.

With such a steep cut, some victim services providers in Ohio fear they will no longer be able to serve rural communities, particularly those in the Appalachian region. For the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence, a statewide coalition that supports rape crisis centers, losing funding could reduce its support to the 12 counties that do not have local rape crisis centers or programs.

Its the places that already dont have great access to services and that have never had access to services [that] will be the ones to have whatever access they have further reduced, said Emily Gemar, the groups director of public policy.

Court-appointed special advocate programs in Appalachian counties also are expected to bear the brunt of the funding cuts, according to Doug Stephens, the executive director of Ohio CASA, which oversees 47 local programs covering 60 counties that support children navigating the court system. Stephens anticipates as many as 10 local programs shutting down.

They are working very hard to provide the same services as the big cities, he said in an interview. The only way they can stay open is with VOCA funding.

In South Carolina, victim services providers and Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson are urging the state legislature to offset the looming federal cuts. Wilson has requested $15 million, which is just enough money to keep existing services.

The state Senate has proposed a $5 million allotment, while the House has put forward a $3 million proposal. Under either plan, current projects could face cuts ranging from about 15% to 30%, according to the attorney generals office.

When things like this happen, people just think about dollars. What we see is the real people, we see the feelings, we see the pain and emotions they're going through.

 Richland County, S.C., Sheriff Leon Lott

Richland County, South Carolina, Sheriff Leon Lott, whose department receives VOCA funding and employs victim advocates who help people go through the criminal legal system, said the state should offer more support.

When things like this happen, people just think about dollars. What we see is the real people, we see the feelings, we see the pain and emotions theyre going through, said Lott, a Democrat. This loss of funding, Im afraid, will have a negative impact on the things that we try to do with victims and may end up victimizing them even more.

If the feds are not going to provide the money, then the state needs to do it.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Follow Stateline on Facebook and Twitter.

The post Crime victims may get fewer services as federal aid drops. States weigh how to help. appeared first on West Virginia Watch.
Crime victims may get fewer services as federal aid drops. States weigh how to help.

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 24: An attendee looks at a series of banners for National Crime Victims' Rights Week Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall a on April 24, 2024 in Washington, DC. The Justice Departments Office for Victims of Crime held the event to pay tribute to victims and survivors of crime and individuals who provide service and support. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Groups that assist crime victims across the United States are bracing for significant financial pain after the amount available from a major federal victim services fund plunged $700 million this year.

Congress recently lowered spending to $1.2 billion from the fund, which provides grants to nonprofit and local programs across the country.

This latest round of cuts has sparked widespread concern among district attorneys offices, rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters, child advocacy centers and law enforcement agencies that offer victim support services. Many of these organizations and agencies now expect to have to close locations, lay off staff and cut back on services.

Meanwhile, the drop in dollars has many experts and advocates rethinking the current, uncertain system of helping crime victims. How much federal money is available every year is determined by a complex three-year average of court fees, fines and penalties that have accumulated  a number that has plummeted by billions during the past six years. The fund does not receive any taxpayer dollars.

Karrie Delaney, director of federal affairs for the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, said the slowdown of court cases during the COVID-19 pandemic and the last administration not prosecuting as many corporate cases has affected the fund more than usual.

RAINN is the countrys largest anti-sexual-violence organization. It operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) alongside local organizations and runs the U.S. Defense Departments Safe Helpline. It also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, according to its website.

I think whats important from RAINNs perspective is the actual impact that those fluctuations have on the survivors that we support and organizations and service providers across the country, Delaney said.

When the federal cap decreases, she said, organizations that support crime victims often turn to state and local governments to make up the gap. And a lot of the times there isnt enough money to do that.

Victim services providers say that smaller groups or branches, particularly those in rural towns or counties, are at an especially high risk of closing because of the expected cutbacks. Many rely solely on federal dollars.

Shakyra Diaz, the chief of federal advocacy with the Alliance for Safety and Justice, which advocates for crime victims, said many groups are seriously in a situation where they may have to close their doors, they may have to cut services, they may have to cut staff, they may have to tell crime victims, I cannot help you right now. You have to wait six months.

In at least three states  California, Colorado and Maine  state legislators have proposed bills that would create new avenues for state-based funding for victim services. A couple of bills would inject general state dollars into victim services to offset the federal cuts, while one would create a new tax on firearms and ammunition, and yet another would increase criminal penalties on corporations. The money collected from taxes or fines would then go toward supporting victim services.

The federal crime victims fund gets its money from fines, forfeited bonds and financial penalties in certain federal cases.

The year-by-year uncertainty around how much money will come from federal crime cases, which directly affects how much will be available to states to distribute to victim services providers, makes it challenging for groups to budget over the long term.

Services for victims and resources for victim services are already so tight. And so when youre talking about taking a pot of money thats already stretched at its best and making it smaller  its frankly terrifying, said Renee Williams, the executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime.

The federal fund was established in 1984 under the Victims of Crime Act, known as VOCA. Congress tried to stabilize the fund in 2000 by setting an annual cap on withdrawals. The cap remained below $1 billion a year until 2015, but Congress raised it to $2.3 billion that year, and in 2018 it peaked at $4.4 billion.

Then, the cap plummeted, and by fiscal year 2023, Congress had set it at $1.9 billion, according to data from the U.S. Department of Justice.

This past March, Congress again lowered the cap, to $1.2 billion, a drop of more than 35%. The cuts will not take effect until October of this year, when the federal governments next fiscal year begins.

Victim services groups say that the demand for help has continued to surge. Some anticipate the grant process to become even more competitive.

Theyre asking state lawmakers for help.

State legislation

For Stand Up Placer, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking in Placer County, California, the anticipated federal cuts are expected to slash about $700,000, or 22%, of the group's budget, according to Cheryl Marcell, the organization's CEO.

Some of the groups services, such as legal counseling, are likely to be scaled back. Instead of serving the current caseload of 500, the group may only be able to accommodate 200 clients, Marcell said.

In California, local district attorney's offices are grappling with how to address this funding shortfall, according to Jonathan Raven, assistant CEO of the California District Attorneys Association and former Yolo County chief deputy district attorney.

Offices are considering options such as laying off staff, requesting local funding or scaling back services altogether, Raven told Stateline.

The people that are victimized that are the most vulnerable are no longer going to get the services that they should expect and they do deserve, Raven said. It's really going to be a significant impact across California and across the country.

State legislators in California have proposed two bills aimed at mitigating the federal cuts.

One of the bills would require state supplemental funding whenever the federal VOCA award is reduced more than 10% than the amount awarded the prior year. The bill is in committee.

The other bill, which is still under consideration in the Assembly, would increase fines levied on corporations convicted of misdemeanor and felony offenses. These fines would be used to fund a new California Crime Victims Fund.

In Colorado, the legislature passed a bill proposing a more permanent state funding source for victim services through a 9% gun and ammunition excise tax. The tax revenue would be spent on crime victim support services, mental health services, school safety and gun violence prevention.

The bill is now headed to Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, who has until June 7 to sign or veto it, according to his press secretary. If he signs it, the measure will go before voters on the November ballot.

Meanwhile, in Maine, Democratic Gov. Janet Mills signed a budget bill in April that includes a one-time allotment of $6 million for victim services.

Effects on services for victims

There are about 12,200 victim services providers in the United States, with nearly a quarter of them located in the country's most populous states  California, Florida, Texas and New York, according to the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics' 2017 census.

Ohio has more than 400 victim services providers, many of which receive funding from the federal crime victims fund. Last year, the state received $46.6 million.

But for fiscal year 2024, Ohio has been awarded just $26.7 million, a 42.8% decrease from 2023 and a 77% decrease from 2018.

With such a steep cut, some victim services providers in Ohio fear they will no longer be able to serve rural communities, particularly those in the Appalachian region. For the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence, a statewide coalition that supports rape crisis centers, losing funding could reduce its support to the 12 counties that do not have local rape crisis centers or programs.

It's the places that already don't have great access to services and that have never had access to services [that] will be the ones to have whatever access they have further reduced, said Emily Gemar, the groups director of public policy.

Court-appointed special advocate programs in Appalachian counties also are expected to bear the brunt of the funding cuts, according to Doug Stephens, the executive director of Ohio CASA, which oversees 47 local programs covering 60 counties that support children navigating the court system. Stephens anticipates as many as 10 local programs shutting down.

They are working very hard to provide the same services as the big cities, he said in an interview. The only way they can stay open is with VOCA funding.

In South Carolina, victim services providers and Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson are urging the state legislature to offset the looming federal cuts. Wilson has requested $15 million, which is just enough money to keep existing services.

The state Senate has proposed a $5 million allotment, while the House has put forward a $3 million proposal. Under either plan, current projects could face cuts ranging from about 15% to 30%, according to the attorney generals office.

When things like this happen, people just think about dollars. What we see is the real people, we see the feelings, we see the pain and emotions they're going through.

 Richland County, S.C., Sheriff Leon Lott

Richland County, South Carolina, Sheriff Leon Lott, whose department receives VOCA funding and employs victim advocates who help people go through the criminal legal system, said the state should offer more support.

When things like this happen, people just think about dollars. What we see is the real people, we see the feelings, we see the pain and emotions they're going through, said Lott, a Democrat. This loss of funding, I'm afraid, will have a negative impact on the things that we try to do with victims and may end up victimizing them even more.

If the feds are not going to provide the money, then the state needs to do it.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Follow Stateline on Facebook and Twitter.

The post Crime victims may get fewer services as federal aid drops. States weigh how to help. appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRRUA) said it has passed its arsenic water sample test for the fifth time in a row.

The utility provides water and wastewater service for the Santa Teresa and Sunland Park areas.

The tests result released by Eurofins Environment Testing, a water lab certified by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), show that the arsenic levels at three of the four CRRUAs arsenic treatment facilities (ATF) are below the federal limit, according to the utility.

CRRUA says it has passed latest arsenic testing for water

The utility said it excluded the Border Entry ATF from the testing due to the continued meeting of all NMED requirements.

Sample Location (Arsenic Treatment Facility (AFT)) Sample Results (ppb) Arsenic MCL 10 (ppb) Sunland Park (ATF) 5.0 Below MCL Santa Teresa Community (ATF) 2.8 Below MCL Santa Teresa Industrial Park (ATF) 4.1 Below MCL Border Entry (AFT) Excluded N/A

In addition to CRRUAs voluntary self-governance practice of twice monthly arsenic testing, NMED conducts its own quarterly testing, read the press release.

NMEDs second quarter test results from water samples, which were taken April 3, show arsenic levels below the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 parts per billion (ppb).

Sample Location (AFT) Sample Result (ppb) Arsenic MCL 10 (ppb) Storage Tank #1 (Border Entry) 3.0 Below MCL Industrial Park Arsenic (AFT) 7.0 Below MCL Sunland Park Arsenic (AFT) 5.0 Below MCL Santa Teresa Community 6.0 Below MCL

U.S. Rep Vasquez asks for more water testing in Southern NM

The utility has been under fire for water quality issues. Residents in the area have told KTSM that they have had issues for months and some even say years.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) has released the identities of two men killed in a shooting on North Murray Boulevard on the evening of Thursday, May 16.

23-year-old Ramon Ruacho and 19-year-old Elijah Espinoza were killed in a shooting shortly after 10 p.m. on May 16, according to CSPD.

23-year-old Ramon Ruacho. Courtesy: Colorado Springs Police Department

Officers originally responded just after 10:15 p.m. to the 200 block of North Murray Boulevard, just south of Platte Avenue, on a reported shooting. When officers arrived, they found three victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the victims was declared dead on scene, and another died after being transported to the hospital.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Two killed, one injured in overnight shooting

The third victim was taken to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. No suspect is in custody, however, CSPD said this does not appear to be a random act. Detectives continue to investigate, including the development of potential suspect information.

The El Paso County Coroner will determine the official cause and manner of death, though the deaths are being investigated as homicides. The investigation remains active, and anyone with information or who may be a witness to the shooting is asked to contact CSPD at (719) 444-4000. To remain anonymous, you can also contact the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (719) 634-STOP (7867).

These were the 16th and 17th homicides in Colorado Springs in 2024. At the same time in 2023, there had been 11 homicides.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
Czech President Petr Pavel was released from hospital on Friday after a motorcycle accident and is to receive further treatment at home, a spokesman announced on the platform X.

The 62-year-old reportedly injured himself in a fall while riding at low speed through rough terrain on a closed training ground. Pavel then spent the night under observation at the Central Military Hospital in Prague.

No detailed information about the nature of the injury was provided, but it is not said to be serious. The newspaper Blesk reported that Pavel may have broken a rib.

According to the presidential office, his schedule will remain unchanged in the coming days, including a planned trip to Jordan next week, where the president is due to meet with King Abdullah II.

Pavel, a former chief of general staff, has been at the helm of the EU and NATO member state since March 2023. He is known as an avid motorcycle enthusiast, with several vehicles in his garage.

In May 2023, he rode his motorcycle to a meeting with Bavarian Premier Markus Soder in the German town of Selb near the Czech border.

After riding without a helmet last year, Pavel had to publicly apologize and donated money to an organization that helps accident victims.
From D.C. to California, Americans use Memorial Day weekend as time to remember those who served

American flags are displayed in Times Square on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend in New York City. The 36th annual celebration in the city celebrates those who serve and provides a chance for people to meet U.S. sailors, Marines and coast guardsmen. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI

May 24 (UPI) -- Numerous events and ceremonies honoring America's fallen veterans are set to take place this weekend leading up to Memorial Day on Monday.

The World War II Memorial 20th Anniversary Commemoration will take place at 10 a.m. EDT Saturday at 1750 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. This event can be viewed online and in person.

Guests can visit the Poppy Wall of Honor, a tribute to the more than 600,000 veterans lost since World War I, at the National Mall from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is hosting a number of ceremonies over the weekend at VA National Cemeteries across the country.

California VA cemeteries will have Memorial Day ceremonies on Saturday and Sunday, including in Arvin and Benicia on Satuday, and Dixon and Santa Nella on Sunday.

Sailors in uniform take a photo with characters dressed as super heroes in Times Square on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI

Florida VA Cemeteries will host ceremonies in Jacksonville and Sarasota on Saturday and in Tallahassee on Sunday.

In New York, ceremonies will take place in Corfu and Schuylerville on Saturday, and in Brooklyn and Farmingdale on Sunday.

People try to do pull-ups at a Navy display set up in Times Square on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI

Memorial Day Weekend kicked off Friday in the Big Apple, with sailors, Marines and coast guardsmen rubbing elbows with iconic characters such as Spiderman and Megatron.

Various branches also set up displays in Times Square for people to attempt pull-ups and try on military equipment such as Navy dive helmets.

A graduating midshipman celebrates after receiving her diploma during the Naval Academy Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Ma., on Friday. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

People in New York City can expect mostly sunny conditions through the weekend leading up to Monday's Memorial Day Parade, although there is a slight chance of thunderstorms Sunday evening.

Also on Friday, 1,040 midshipmen graduates took their oath of office at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. The graduating class included 725 men with 315 women.

Naval Academy graduates throw their hats to conclude the Naval Academy Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Ma. on Friday. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

The Houston National Cemetery in Texas will host Carry the Load's Memorial Day relay march at 1 p.m. CT Saturday. Funds raised from the event supports nationwide services such as counseling, suicide prevention, service dogs, job placement, home improvement, scholarships for children of fallen veterans and more.

Graduates will be commissioned either into the Navy as ensigns or into the Marine Corps as second lieutenants.

Midshipmen salute during the Naval Academy Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., on Friday. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Marchers should bring plenty of water, as the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston predicted a heat index of 100 to 107 degrees for Saturday.

Fort Mitchell National Cemetery in Alabama will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at 1 p.m. CT on Sunday.

Summer fireworks at Chicago's Navy Pier will kick off at 10 p.m. CT Saturday. The free events go until the end of August. Scattered thunderstorms throughout the weekend are expected to clear up at least for Saturday's fireworks show.

PBS will air its 35th Annual National Memorial Day Concert at 8 p.m. EDT Sunday. The concert will take place on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C., and is open to the public.

The concert will feature performances from the National Symphony Orchestra, the Army Chorus, the Navy Band Sea Chanters, the Air Force Singing Sergeants and more.

Celebrity appearances include performers Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise and actors Bryan Cranston and Cynthia Erivo, among others.

The forecast for the D.C. area is mostly sunny throughout the weekend, although people attending the Memorial Day Concert might want to pack an umbrella, as there is a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening.

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Sens. Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley, center, talk with first responders, volunteers and local officials about disaster recovery after Tuesday's tornado in Greenfield. (Photo courtesy of Grassley's office)

Iowa lawmakers focused on a farm bill headed to the House floor, biofuel production levels, student loans and more this week ahead of a weeklong recess.

Members of Iowas congressional delegation also reacted to storms and floods that affected Iowans, including a deadly tornado that hit Greenfield Tuesday.

Heres a look at what the delegation was up to this week:

Rapid tornado, flood aid requested

Storms that hit Iowa, including one killing four in Greenfield, have prompted Iowas delegation to ask for a granting of a disaster declaration for the state of Iowa.

The six delegates wrote to President Joe Biden asking him to grant Gov. Kim Reynolds request for public assistance for Adair County and individual assistance for Adair, Polk, Story and Montgomery counties. The declaration was approved Friday.

The Governor has determined that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments, and supplementary federal assistance is necessary, the lawmakers wrote.

Sens. Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst visited the town Friday.

2day Sen Ernst & I toured tornado damage in Greenfield We were briefed by local leaders & thanked first responders/law enforcement/volunteers/emergency management for their hard work & resiliency on behalf of their community pic.twitter.com/w0lHCUzsCM  Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) May 24, 2024

Nunn, who represents Greenfield in Congress, reacted to the storms on X:

Kelly and I are devastated by the loss of life and damage caused by yesterdays storms. Iowans are resilient and will come together to rebuild. In Congress, Im doing everything I can to provide the resources that are needed to do just that. pic.twitter.com/1jBhrujd2I  Congressman Zach Nunn (@ZachNunn) May 22, 2024

Rep. Ashley Hinson said she will work at the federal level to help Iowans:

Devastated by the loss of life in Greenfield. Iowans will band together to help each other recover, and I will do everything I can at the federal level to provide the necessary resources to do so. Join me in praying for southwest Iowa & all those impacted by last nights storms.  Ashley Hinson (@RepAshleyHinson) May 22, 2024

Farm bill

Republicans version of the farm bill was introduced this week and passed the House Agriculture Committee, including initiatives from Iowa delegates. The bill heads to the House floor for a vote.

Rep. Randy Feenstra said in a news release that 10 bills he introduced were included in this version of the five-year farm bill, including initiatives targeting improved trade capabilities, crop insurance, research funding and how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are administered.

SNAP and related nutrition programs account for a majority of the spending in the Farm Bill, and the current bill includes changes to how nutrition programs operate.

The conversations that I have had with my Agriculture Advisory Board and with farmers and producers on my agriculture tour have informed my priorities for rural Iowa, which are now included in the Farm Bill, Feenstra said in a news release.

In the early hours of Friday morning, we passed the 2024 Farm Bill out of @HouseAgGOP and it now heads to the House Floor for consideration by the full Congress. We secured many victories for our farmers & rural communities. Ill always be a strong voice for #IA04 agriculture! pic.twitter.com/n9D7XmbZZw  Rep. Randy Feenstra (@RepFeenstra) May 24, 2024

Rep. Zach Nunn said he led 17 bills, including those aimed at assisting small businesses and child and health care and targeting puppy mill protocol.

According to Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat from Michigan, the bill does not have the votes to pass the House or Senate.

Senators contest student loan forgiveness

Grassley and Ernst signed a letter with 129 other federal lawmakers to Biden, in which they strongly urge the president to withdraw targeted relief of student loans.

In addition to the fiscally irresponsible nature of this backdoor attempt to enact free college, the administration continues to use borrowers as political pawns knowing full well these proposed actions are illegal, the lawmakers wrote.

In April, the Biden administration announced a proposal to relieve billions in student loan debt.

The lawmakers stated that among the people who would receive relief under the forgiveness, some of the forgiven loans would help the wealthy.

Biofuel production level disagreement

Grassley, Ernst and Feenstra asked Biden and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for higher Renewable Fuel Standard levels following a 2023 decision that the lawmakers say partially resulted in the closing of two biodiesel plants, including one in Iowa.

The policy decisions you made have real world impacts  the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) levels in no way reflected the growth of the renewable diesel industry that had already occurred, let alone what was projected over the 3-year period, the lawmakers wrote in a letter Wednesday.

The lawmakers asked the executive branch members to increase volumes already set in place, citing what the lawmakers referred to as a precedent when the EPA amended a decision to reduce volumes in 2022.

For the biomass-based diesel industry to continue to grow, it needs certainty and predictability, and this requires RVOs that adequately reflect the growth potential of biomass-based diesel production, the lawmakers wrote. Therefore, we urge you to immediately reconsider your past decision and raise the 2024 and 2025 RVO levels for biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuels and overall renewable fuels to support American farmers, rural communities, and our economy at large.

South African pork market

Feenstra led a letter with Rep. Greg Murphy, a Republican representing North Carolina, concerning South African restrictions on U.S. pork products. The letter was sent to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai.

According to the 2024 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, South Africa imposes freezing requirements inconsistent with international standards and restrictions on cuts eligible for import concerning Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome.

We urge you raise these issues in your bilateral conversations with the South African Government and consider them as you conduct the ongoing African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) annual review process, the lawmakers wrote. Further, as Congress considers renewal of AGOA, we stand ready to work with you to ensure the United States Trade Representative has effective tools available to enforce equitable, science-based treatment for U.S. pork exports to South Africa.

Twenty-seven representatives, including Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Hinson, signed the letter.

Bipartisan recognition

Georgetown Universitys Lugar Center  McCourt School of Bipartisan Index recently released its ratings for each delegate when working with members of the other political party during the first session of the 118th Congress, the 2023 calendar year.

All four U.S. representatives representing Iowa were ranked in the top half of their colleagues for bipartisan work, including Nunn who was ranked 10th of 436. Miller-Meeks was ranked 70th, Feenstra was ranked 123rd and Hinson was ranked 142nd.

In the Air Force, I learned that no successful mission can be completed alone, Nunn said in a news release. Thats why Im committed to reaching across the aisle to work with those who are willing to roll up their sleeves, have hard conversations, and find real solutions to the problems that face Iowa families. While partisan bickering is often what grabs headlines, Im proud of the difference weve been able to make for Iowa families by working in a bipartisan way.

Nunn is in his first term after defeating former Rep. Cindy Axne, a Democrat, by 2,145 votes, or 0.7% in 2022.

On the Senate report, Grassley was ranked 11th, while Ernst was ranked 52nd out of 98 senators.

During my annual 99 county meetings, Iowans often ask why politicians in Washington cant get along, Grassley said in a news release. I let them know that bipartisanship does happen  it just doesnt get media attention because it lacks controversy. In fact, bipartisanship is a necessity. Most bills need 60 votes to pass, and we simply dont have 60 senators of the same party.

Grassley is also ranked the second most bipartisan senator among senators who have served in at least 10 Congresses since 1993.

Ill join any one of my colleagues if it means we can get something positive done for the people of Iowa, Grassley said. Im honored by this recognition and will continue my work passing legislation and improving the lives of Iowans through bipartisanship.

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For the first time in history, marijuana has surpassed alcohol in daily use amongst Americans, according to a new study

Research published earlier this week in the monthly peer-reviewed scientific journal Addiction, showed that more than 17.7 million Americans used marijuana daily or near-daily in 2022 as compared to 14.7 million who reported drinking alcohol at the same rate.

Far more people consume alcohol than cannabis, research showed, but high-frequency drinking is less common. In 2022, the median drinker reported drinking on 4 to 5 days in the past month, compared to 15 to 16 days in the past month for the median cannabis user.

Regular cannabis use still pales in comparison to daily use of cigarettes, researchers noted. More than 24.1 million people smoked cigarettes daily or near-daily compared to the 17.7 million Americans who used cannabis regularly.

The research also showed that older Americans are using more regularly than younger.

In 2022, people 35 and older accounted for (slightly) more days of use than did those under the age of 35, the study notes.

Researchers used data compiled over more than 40 years from the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse, which showed cannabis use began to rise at a corresponding rate to changes in cannabis policies.

As of 2024, 24 states and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational marijuana use, according to the Pew Research Center. Another 14 states allow for medical use only.

Last week, the U.S. Department of Justice proposed new regulations that would designate cannabis a Schedule III drug, rather than its current designation of a Schedule I drug. Cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl are among the drugs that have received the Schedule II designation.

Schedule I drugs are those with the highest potential to create dependency issues and are considered to have no currently accepted medical use. The DOJ decision cites the use of marijuana in the medical field as one of the reasons it warrants reclassification.

The recently published research concluded that long-term trends in cannabis use have paralleled cannabis policy changes, with declines during periods of greater restriction and growth during periods of policy liberalization.

But researchers stressed that changes in laws regarding cannabis cant be definitely attributed to the rise in use.

Both could have been manifestations of changes in underlying culture and attitudes. However, whichever way causal arrows point, cannabis use now appears to be on a fundamentally different scale than it was before legalization, researchers wrote.

To read the full study and read more about the findings and methodology used, click here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Disclaimer: The article contains mentions of murder. Reader discretion is advised.

On June 28, 2015, Teresa Sievers cut short her family vacation in upstate New York and returned to her home in Florida. Reports indicate that Teresa was a doctor and wanted to see her patients the next morning. However, as soon as she entered her home, unknown assailants struck her head with hammers repeatedly and killed her.

As the investigations progressed, the authorities found substantial physical evidence at the crime scene and arrested two suspects for the slaying. But soon, police discovered that someone close to the doctor planned the incident. According to the News-Press, someone called 911 after discovering Teresa Sieverss body inside her residence. The publication mentioned that the assailants struck her in the back of the head. Moreover, a hammer was lying next to the victims body. The autopsy showed that Teresa died from blunt force trauma.

Meanwhile, the outlet cited court documents and noted that someone deactivated the alarm at Sievers home. Later that day, Mark Sievers called one of his friends to check up on Teresa because she didnt show up at work. As soon as the friend went inside the house, he found the lifeless body of Teresa Sievers.

During the initial interrogation, Sievers claimed that he and Teresa had a lot of arguments in their marriage. But, he denied having any extra-marital affairs. Two months later, authorities apprehended Jimmy Ray Rodgers and Curtis Wayne Wright for Teresa Sievers murder. Reports indicate that police received a tip that helped them arrest the suspects. As per News-Press, Rodgers girlfriend contacted the police and told them that her boyfriend admitted to her that he and Wright killed Teresa. The publication also mentioned that he killed her with a hammer, and the entire plan was orchestrated by Mark Sievers. As a result, police arrested Rodgers and Wright.

Wright took a plea deal and decided to testify against Sievers. During the trial, he testified against Mark Sievers and helped the prosecutors convict him. The jury found him guilty on all charges and gave him a death sentence, per the Associated Press.

What was the motive behind Teresas killing?

According to The Mirror, Teresa Sievers and Mark Sievers had problems in their marriage and were facing financial troubles. The media outlet noted the victim had several life insurance policies, amounting to over $4 million in total. In December 2015, the State Attorney released essential documents regarding the case. It claimed he hired Rodgers and Wright to slay his wife to collect millions of insurance money, per FOX 4 Now.

During the trial, Curtis Wayne Wright testified against Mark Sievers and told the court that Sievers was having problems with his wife. He also stated that Teresa would take his daughters away from him. At the time, Sievers reportedly told him that his only option was for his wife to die, per Naples Daily News. Moreover, he testified that Mark Sievers offered him $100,000 to have his wife murdered. Citing her testimony, Naples Daily News also stated that Sievers told Wright about the insurance money as well.

Additionally, he told the court that Sievers gave him the codes for the security system to access the premises. His testimony and other evidence presented in the court helped the jury deliver a guilty verdict. Subsequently, Sievers received a death sentence for the murder of Teresa Sievers. Later, Mark Sievers filed an appeal to dismiss his death sentence. However, the court denied his appeal and upheld his conviction, per WBBH.

The post Dateline NBC: What Happened to Teresa Sievers? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Disclaimer: The article contains mentions of murder. Reader discretion is advised.

Dateline NBC plans to re-examine the brutal murder case of Teresa Sievers that took place in June 2015. Titled The Road Trip, the episode will unravel startling details about the gruesome crime and how an innocent woman lost her life. It would also shed light on how investigators solved the case and concluded that Teresas husband, Mark Sievers, was responsible for stitching a murder-for-hire plot. The episode will air on the network on Friday, May 24, at 9 p.m. EST.

In June 2015, Teresa Sievers was enjoying a family vacation in upstate New York. However, on June 28, she abruptly shortened her vacation to return to her Bonita Springs, Florida, home. Per CBS News, Teresa Sievers was a doctor and wanted to see her patients the following day. But as soon as she entered her house, unknown assailants attacked her from behind. News-Press.com reported that the assailants struck her head with hammers and killed her. Meanwhile, CBS News noted that authorities discovered her dead body lying in a pool of blood on the floor.

Investigators found a hammer in the kitchen of Teresa Sievers house. Two months later, police apprehended two suspectsJimmy Ray Rodgers and Curtis Wayne Wrightin the murder case. The investigation continued, and some months later, Wright took a plea deal and accused Mark Sievers of planning the entire crime. As a result, authorities charged him for his wifes killing. The jury found Mark guilty of first-degree murder and gave him a death sentence, per Associated Press. Meanwhile, Curtis Wayne Wright was sentenced to 25 years in prison and Rodgers received a life sentence.

Mark Sievers is currently on death row at Union Correctional Institution in Raiford, Florida.

Did Mark Sievers have any accomplices?

During the investigation, police found physical evidence that led to the arrest of Teresa Sievers murderers. According to the News-Press, Jimmy Ray Rodgers girlfriend informed authorities that her boyfriend went to Florida to kill someone. The outlet mentioned that Rodgers girlfriend confronted him and said she knew why he went to Florida. He then confirmed her suspicions and told her that Mark Sievers hired him and Curtis Wayne Wright to kill his wife.

Citing her statement, News-Press noted that Rodgers admitted to her that he killed Teresa Sievers with a hammer. Her statement proved crucial in arresting Rodgers and his accomplice. CBS News reported that digital evidence helped investigators in tracing the whereabouts of the killers. During the trial, the prosecution team told the jury how Curtis Wayne Wright rented a car and picked up Rodgers. The outlet also stated that the duo traveled 1,100 miles to reach Bonita Springs. Additionally, they disabled the security alarms before getting back in their vehicle.

Months after their arrest, in December 2015, the court released the documents that claimed that Mark Sievers hired both suspects to slay his wife, Teresa. Police then arrested Mark in the murder case, per FOX 4 Now. In November 2019, the prosecution team began the opening arguments in Mark Sievers trial. During the trial, one of the suspects, Curtis Wayne Wright, testified against Mark and revealed how he and Rodgers killed Teresa.

Almost a month later, the jury found Mark Sievers guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, per Naples Daily News. The jury deliberated for four hours before coming out with a guilty verdict.

Dateline NBC will feature the case in its upcoming episode on Friday.

The post Dateline NBC: Where Is Teresa Sievers Killer Mark Sievers Now? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
A 37-year-old woman in California was charged Tuesday in connection with the death of her mother after authorities found a body wrapped in a plastic bag inside a closet of their home, the Hanford Police Department announced.

Kelli Elizabeth Yingling pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to killing her mother, Peggi Yingling, 67, whos body was discovered after a neighbor who had not seen Peggi Yingling in weeks asked police to conduct a welfare check, ABC affiliate KFSN-TV in Fresno reported.

The defendant has been previously convicted of elder abuse and was on felony probation for elder abuse at the time that this offense occurred, Kings County District Attorney Sarah Hacker said in court, according to KFSN.

Hacker confirmed in an email to HuffPost that Yingling is facing charges of murder in the first degree and elder abuse in connection with her mothers death.

Carlos Navarrete, her attorney, told KFSN that his client is innocent until proved guilty.

Very often when we get police reports, we start to see that things are not clear-cut as they made it to be; there are a lot of nuances, and peoples memories arent what they claim or were initially, so we need to investigate all that, Navarrete said.

Authorities were conducting a welfare check at the victims home in Hanford, a small city in the San Joaquin Valley, on May 18. They located the deceased woman inside a locked closet, according to the press release. Police said the victim had been dead for an extended amount of time.

An autopsy revealed signs that the Yingling had been strangled, the Hanford Police Departments press release said.

Authorities claimed that Kelli Yinglings interview with detectives had implicated her in the murder.

Residents living in the Yinglings neighborhood described it to KFSN as quiet, despite police making an appearance at the victims home in the past.

Gabriel Virrueta, who lives near the home, described Peggi Yingling as very introverted and told KFSN that she would occasionally ask neighbors for help and ride to the store and ride to the doctors office.

Kelli Yingling had been in custody at King County Jail since May 7, before the body was discovered. She was jailed in connection with a police pursuit on May 2, authorities said in the press release.

Kelli Yingling had been convicted of elder abuse in 2023 in a case also involving her mother, according to KMPH-TV in Visalia, California.

Related...
MISSOURI  Missouri State Rep. Ben Baker says his daughter and son-in-law were both killed in Haiti in a gang attack.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain, said Baker in a Facebook post Friday morning on the situation.

Baker (R-Neosho) says his daughter Natalie and his son-in-law, Davy Lloyd, were attacked by gangs and killed. They were both full-time missionaries in Haiti.

The Lloyd family runs the Nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc., based out of Oklahoma. The group called for an urgent prayer in a Facebook post on Thursday, reporting that Davy, Natalie, and some kids were coming out of a church when they were attacked.

The group also runs a school for children as well as two churches in the outskirts of Port-au-Prince.

Baker and his wife, Naomi, are speaking out on the incident.

She loved people, she was a sweetheart, but very determined, he said. Very organized, very stubborn, probably got a little bit of that from both of us.

Pledge dad in Mizzou hazing case sentenced to jail, house arrest

According to the Associated Press, various attacks have followed since Haiti announced a new prime minister on April 30. Gangs in Haiti have laid siege to several neighborhoods, burning homes and exchanging gunfire.

Representative Jim Murphy serves with Baker in the Missouri House. He says he is devastated.

They decided they were going to follow the Lords work and go to Haiti. Actually, they were working to help the victims of the gangs that murdered them, he said.

Senator Josh Hawley also took to X, formerly Twitter, urging the American Embassy to send help to the Lloyds as they were under siege. His office was told it was too dangerous, and Hawley was upset about nothing being done to protect them.

Two GoFundMe pages have been started to aid in funeral expenses and support for both the families.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
MISSOURI (KTVI)  Missouri State Rep. Ben Baker says his daughter and son-in-law were both killed in Haiti in a gang attack.

Baker (R-Neosho) says his daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Davy Lloyd, were attacked by gangs and killed. They were both full-time missionaries in Haiti.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain, said Baker in a Facebook post Friday morning on the situation. He continued: They went to Heaven together.

Police check motorcyclists near the airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Friday, May 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

A woman covers the side of the street with water to keep dirt from kicking up, as police patrol near the airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Friday, May 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

A bus passes by a police officer on patrol near the airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Friday, May 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

A third person also was killed during the attack Thursday evening in the community of Lizon in northern Port-au-Prince, Lionel Lazarre, head of a Haitian police union, told The Associated Press on Friday. The third victim has not yet been publicly identified.

The young couple worked for Claremore, Oklahoma-based nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc., which was founded by Davy Lloyds parents, David and Alicia Lloyd. According to Natalie Lloyds Facebook page, she and Davy married in June, 2022 and started working for the nonprofit in August of that year.

Nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc. called for an urgent prayer in a Facebook post on Thursday, reporting that Davy, Natalie, and some kids were coming out of a church when they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys.

The post said Davy was taken to the house where he was tied up and beaten as the gang loaded up the organizations trucks and took them. The Facebook messaged described another gang arriving at the house and Davy, Natalie and Jude hiding in the house and using the star link internet to communicate as gang members shot out the window.

A message three hours stated that Davy and Natalie had been shot and killed, adding, We all are devastated.

As of Friday, its not yet clear who was responsible for the deadly attack.

According to the Associated Press, various attacks have followed since Haiti announced a new prime minister on April 30. Gangs in Haiti have laid siege to several neighborhoods, burning homes and exchanging gunfire.

This is a developing story. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
A Missouri state representative shared on social media that his daughter and son-in-law were attacked and killed by a gang in Haiti Thursday night.

Ben Baker (R-Neosho) said on Facebook that his daughter Natalie Lloyd and son-in-law Davy Lloyd were working as full time missionaries in Haiti.

My heart is broken into a thousand pieces, Baker said. Ive never felt this kind of pain.

Haiti has historically been crippled with violent gang activity and large attacks have ensued since the announcement of its new prime minister at the end of April. Gangs have laid siege to several neighborhoods, burned homes and exchanged gunfire with police, the Associated Press reported earlier this month.

Missions in Haiti Inc. posted on its Facebook page calling for urgent prayer a few hours before making another post about Natalie and Davy Lloyds deaths. The organization said Davy Lloyd, 23, and Natalie Lloyd, 21, had been shot and killed by a gang around 9 p.m. Thursday.

David Lloyd, Davys father, said in an interview with the Miami Herald that Jude Montis, a Haitian director of their nonprofit, was also killed.

The three were reportedly killed by armed gunmen who targeted Missions In Hope, a nonprofit that runs a school for children, and has a childrens home and commercial bakery, the Herald reported. Exact details of what happened are still not clear Friday.

As Natalie and Davy Lloyd were coming out of church with several youths, armed gang members ambushed them, according to a Missions in Haiti Facebook post. The gang members looted the house as they tied Davy Lloyd up and beat him, the post said.

Davy Lloyd was trying to contact his dad when the three were shot and their bodies were set on fire, The Herald reported.

They went to Heaven together, Baker said. Please pray for my family, we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well.

Baker declined additional comment in a text to The Star, saying that he would not be doing any interviews until he confirms that their bodies are safe at the embassy.

Several Missouri statewide officials have commented on the deaths and shown support for the Baker and Lloyd families.

Absolutely heartbreaking news. Teresa and I extend our deepest condolences to Rep. @BenBakerMO and Naomi and their family. We pray for Natalie and Davys loved ones and that God bring them strength during this most difficult time. https://t.co/GCqg5ejDzE  Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) May 24, 2024

Absolutely heartbreaking news, said Missouri Gov. Mike Parson on X, formerly Twitter. Teresa and I extend our deepest condolences to (Rep. Ben Baker) and Naomi and their family. We pray for Natalie and Davys loved ones and that God bring them strength during this most difficult time.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey and Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft also extended condolences.

My heartfelt prayers are with Representative @BenBakerMO and his family during this unimaginable loss. His daughter and son-in-law, who tragically lost their lives while serving as missionaries in Haiti, left a legacy of compassion and service that will never be forgotten. May  Andrew Bailey (@AndrewBaileyMO) May 24, 2024

Katie and I are praying for our friends during this difficult time. We are absolutely heartbroken for @BenBakerMO and @Naomi42647000.  Jay Ashcroft (@JayAshcroftMO) May 24, 2024

His daughter and son-in-law left a legacy of compassion and service that will never be forgotten, Bailey said on his X account. May their dedicated work for the people of Haiti always be remembered.

Katie and I are praying for our friends during this difficult time, Ashcroft said on X. We are absolutely heartbroken for (Ben Baker) and (Naomi).
(FOX40.COM)  Davis drivers may be happy to hear that after a multi-month closure for renovation, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in Davis will be reopening soon, according to the DMV.

Since Feb. 9, the office at 505 Pole Line Road has been closed as refurbishments were carried out for the HVAC system, roof, flooring, restrooms and other improvements.

California DMV will no longer process these services at offices

Those needing to visit the office have been forced to either the Woodland, Vacaville, Sacramento Broadway or Sacramento South offices which range from 12 to 23 miles from the Davis office.

The office will reopen at 8 a.m. on May 28 and residents are encouraged to use this opportunity of potentially shorter wait times at the new office to apply for a REAL ID before the May 7, 2025 deadline approaches.

Starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require a valid passport or other federally approved documents, like a REAL ID drivers license or identification card, to board flights within the United States and access secure federal facilities and military bases.

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Nearly four years after the police killing of George Floyd, civil rights advocate Leslie Redmond posed a question to a panel of speakers Friday: What progress have we seen in the fight for racial justice, and what significant challenges remain?

Attorney and civil rights activist Nekima Levy Armstrong noted the four Minneapolis police officers involved in Floyd's murder were prosecuted and convicted, which she called a "sign of progress."

"Around the country there have been a number of police officers who have been held accountable under the law and years ago that wouldn't have happened," she said.

But, Levy Armstrong added, people must not get comfortable. "A lot of folks here and elsewhere want to quickly move on as if George Floyd was never murdered, as if racial justice had never happened, and we have to be the vanguard of change and stand up for what is right," she said.

Hundreds gathered Friday in Minneapolis for a day of remembrance hosted by the nonprofit Win Back to honor Floyd and to reflect, heal and rally against racial injustice. Saturday marks the four-year anniversary of Memorial Day 2020, when Floyd was murdered by police at the corner of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, spurring global protests and a racial reckoning that shined a harsh spotlight on Minneapolis' inequities.

"Buildings burned to the ground  but our hearts still cry out from the pain," said Redmond, executive director of Win Back and a former NAACP president, as she read from a poem following a breakfast at Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown.

"After 2020, nothing was ever supposed to be the same. Politicians and police made promises, corporations made declarations, yet basic human rights are still under attack. Now is not the time to sit back and relax because the city is still burning."

Mayor Jacob Frey recalled how Floyd worked as a security guard near where he lived in northeast Minneapolis, engaging in "razor-sharp banter" with people walking by.

"He was a happy and uplifting person and we can all be unhappy and uplifted through his memory while recognizing the importance of the continuation of progress  we have to do better and we recognize in Minneapolis we have a sacred mission," Frey said.

Toshira Garraway, founder of Families Supporting Families Against Police Violence, said that since Floyd's killing "people are believing our stories more now. But the acknowledgements of all the harm that has been done, we still have to work on that."

Attorney General Keith Ellison, whose office successfully led the prosecution against Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for murdering Floyd, noted that juries convicted all four officers charged in the case in state and federal court. He said juries are now more willing to convict in these cases.

But Ellison added that the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to create national police reform has not passed. He raised a concern that some state attorneys general are fighting corporate diversity practices.

"We are in the middle of a backlash right here, right now," said Ellison.

Memorialize the Movement, a group led by Black women that collects and preserves murals painted on plywood during the unrest following Floyd's death, held a gathering at its south Minneapolis headquarters Friday to screen a film about its work and have a panel discussion.

Leesa Kelly, the group's founder and executive director, said there's still a long way to go when it comes to the treatment of Black and brown people in the Twin Cities. Still, she said, she's proud of the work her group has done to highlight the art of Black people. Kelly said the group has collected more than 1,000 murals and will display the art Saturday.

"Not a lot has changed and that disappoints me, and yet, I have hope because the work that I'm doing is changing things," she said.

Star Tribune staff writer Louis Krauss contributed to this story.
A pink and purple spiral in space blasts out a white line from its center.

Astronomers have witnessed vast black holes blasting powerful beams of particles into space, and then changing aim and firing at new celestial targets.

This cosmic firing range, which is reminiscent of the destruction of the planet Alderaan by the Death Star in Star Wars, could help scientists determine the impacts black holes have on their surrounding galaxies and beyond.

The team behind the observations studied 16 erupting supermassive black holes using NASA's orbiting Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA), a system of ten robotic radio telescopes that are operated remotely from Socorro, New Mexico. Doing so allowed the scientists to discover that jets of supermassive black holes can change directions by as much as almost 90 degrees.

"We found that about a third of the beams are now pointing in completely different directions than before," team leader Francesco Ubertosi of the University of Bologna said in a statement. "These Death Star black holes are swiveling around and pointing at new targets, like the fictional space station in Star Wars."

Related: Churning spacetime and destroyed stars help reveal how fast supermassive black holes spin

a pink and purple spiral in space blasts out a white line from its center

The team monitored the direction in which the supermassive black holes were aiming their jets of high-energy particles, which were blasted out at speeds approaching that of light as they reached distances of many light-years from their sources. They also used X-ray data from Chandra to examine two cavities or "bubbles" in interstellar gas that indicated the direction the jets were firing in millions of years ago. Comparing the two data sets allowed them to ascertain how the supermassive black holes had reoriented their jets.

This reorientation takes place over timescales as long as one million years to a few tens of millions of years. That may sound incredibly slow, but factoring in how long these cosmic titans have existed, it is relatively short.

"Considering that these black holes are likely more than 10 billion years old, we consider a large change in direction over a few million years to be fast," team member and Center for Astrophysics Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) scientists Gerrit Schellenberger said. "Changing the direction of the giant black hole beams in about a million years is analogous to changing the direction of a new battleship in a few minutes."

blue-and-purple blobs in space

The jets like those the team behind this research focused on are created when supermassive black holes are surrounded by flattened clouds of matter called accretion disks. These platters of gas and dust gradually feed matter to the black hole, but not all the material in them meets this fate.

Powerful magnetic fields around supermassive black holes channel charged particles to the poles of the black holes, accelerating them to speeds that are a significant fraction of the speed of light. These particles are blasted out as twin jets in opposite directions from each of the poles.

When they impact hot gas in the galaxy surrounding them, the jets impart energy that prevents this gas from cooling down. Because stars are created when galactic gas cools and forms overdense clumps that collapse under their own gravity, this process can cut off star formation in areas of galaxies. If these beams sweep across galaxies as they change orientation, they increase the number of regions in which star formation can be stunted.

"These galaxies are too distant to tell if the beams from the Death Star black holes are damaging stars and their planets, but we are confident they are preventing many stars and planets from forming in the first place," team member and CfA researcher Ewan O'Sullivan said.

The researchers also considered the possibility that the supermassive black hole jets are not aligned with the cavities because gas is sloshing around in galactic clusters almost like wine in a glass being swirled in a circle. This sloshing of gas could arise from the collision of two galaxies in the cluster.

The team ruled out this idea, however, because this slushing is seen in clusters in which supermassive black hole jets are misaligned with cavities, and also in clusters in which there is an alignment between beam orientation and these vast gas bubbles.

Related stories:

 Black hole announces itself to astronomers by violently ripping apart a star

 Record breaker! Newfound black hole is closest known to Earth

 NASA X-ray observatory reveals how black holes swallow stars and spit out matter

One question the team hasn't been able to answer is how these supermassive black holes are able to reorient their jets in the first place. Supermassive black holes are spinning, and their beams should align with their rotational axis, the imaginary line that should also join the poles of the black hole.

As mentioned above, the material that feeds the black hole also provides matter for the jets. One possibility is that as the accretion disk spins around the black hole, matter falling to it at different angles that are not parallel to the disk could shift the black hole's rotational axis.

"It's possible that material rapidly falling towards the black holes at a different angle for long enough would drag their rotation axes in a different direction, causing the beams to point in a different direction," team member and CfA scientist Jan Vrtilek said.

The team's research is published in The Astrophysical Journal.
Deaths deemed suspicious after bodies found in burned New England home

GREAT POND, Maine (AP)  The deaths of two people whose bodies were discovered in rubble after a house fire in Great Pond are considered suspicious, state police said Thursday.

The state medical examiner identified the bodies as Marie Robbins, 35, and Ryan Devisme, 38, of Aurora, a state police spokesperson said.

State police didnt say why the deaths were considered suspicious. The state medical examiners office said further tests were needed to determine the cause of death.

The fire was discovered early on May 20 in Great Pond, which is about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of Old Town.

State Police said there was no threat to the public, and that the investigation is continuing.

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DECATUR, Ala (WHNT)  The Decatur Police Department (DPD) says a man was arrested Thursday after a road rage incident led to shots being fired into an occupied SUV.

A department spokesperson said Joseph Mcalpin was arrested and charged with shooting into an occupied vehicle Thursday after a road rage incident on Beltline Road.

Former Summit Crossing Community Church employee charged with soliciting a child

DPD said dispatch received a call of shots fired near the Walmart at 2800 Spring Avenue SW. Authorities said once officers arrived, they located an SUV that had been hit by a bullet.

The department said detectives determined the SUV had been involved in a road rage incident on Beltline Road with a man on a motorcycle, later identified as Mcalpin.

The spokesperson said that once the two parties arrived at Walmart, there was a physical altercation between Mcalpin and the people in the SUV. During that altercation, authorities said Mcalpin pulled out a gun and shot the SUV, though no one inside the vehicle was hurt.

Mcalpin is being held at the Morgan County Jail on a $5,000 bond.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine says that the Ukrainian Defence Forces have stopped Russian troops on the Kharkiv front and are launching a counter-offensive.

Source: Colonel Ihor Prokhorenko, representative of the Main Operational Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, at a briefing at the Ukraine-Ukrinform media centre, quoted by the General Staffs press service

Quote: "The situation is difficult. The Defence Forces continue to hold the line in the east and south of our country, inflicting fire on the enemy. The main actions are taking place in Kharkiv and Donetsk oblasts. As for the Kharkiv front, the enemy is conducting offensive operations to create a buffer zone. The enemy has been stopped, the situation is under control, and counter-offensive actions are underway."

Details: The General Staff also noted that the Russian forces are conducting offensive operations in the east of Kharkiv Oblast, planning to bypass the city of Kupiansk from the east, but to no avail.

Fierce fighting continues along almost the entire contact line. The Defence Forces are inflicting heavy losses on the Russians, Ukrainian artillery and unmanned systems are actively working, and aviation is being used, the General Staff states.

Quote: "The situation is under control in Sumy and Chernihiv oblasts. The enemy is accumulating troops on the territory of the Russian Federation, conducting daily air and artillery strikes on border settlements and using UAVs. They are trying to destroy critical infrastructure, attacking with missiles and Shahed UAVs.

The Defence Forces are aware of the enemy's plans and are doing everything they can to disrupt them. Measures are being taken to deploy reserves and firepower to seize the initiative on the battlefield."

Background:

On 10 May, Russian occupation forces intensified their activities in the north of Kharkiv Oblast. The Russians occupied a number of settlements in the grey zone.

On 16 May, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the Defence Forces had managed to stabilise the situation with the Russian offensive in the north of Kharkiv Oblast. They had advanced 10 kilometres deep into Ukraine.

On 17 May, Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, expects heavy fighting in Kharkiv Oblast since he knows that the Russians are preparing to attempt further offensives.

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By Stephen Nellis

(Reuters) - A U.S. defense spending bill advanced by the House of Representatives this week contains a measure that would bar the use of Chinese-made lidar sensors in U.S. military systems.

The measure, introduced by Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, would block the U.S. Defense Department from buying or using the Chinese-made version of the technology, which is a type of light sensor that is widely used in both autonomous vehicles and drones to help the machines gain a three-dimensional view of the world around them.

As the U.S. military increases its use of autonomous unmanned systems, my amendment sends a clear signal that the U.S. cannot rely on untrusted lidar that jeopardizes our national security and undermines the competitiveness of American companies," Stefanik said in a statement.

If passed into law, the measure would add to growing U.S. unease with Chinese-made lidar sensors. In January, the Defense Department added China's Hesai Group, one of the biggest makers of lidar systems, to a list of companies with alleged ties to Beijing's military.

Hesai has sued the Defense Department, arguing that the Chinese military does not exert any influence or control over the group and alleging that the designation harmed its reputation.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told Reuters last year his agency has national security concerns about such technologies and that there was a need to better understand "the true ownership of the different enterprises that are supplying different elements of our transportation systems."

(Reporting by Stephen Nellis; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A Del City man has been convicted by a federal jury of arson and making threats over the phone.

Allen Bullock.

According to the United States Department of Justice, 42-year-old Allen Bullock has been convicted of arson and making threats regarding a fire set at an apartment on November 14, 2023.

The tenant of the apartment was not home and the fire was contained to the entrance of the apartment. After the Del City Fire Department put out the fire, the tenant told authorities he believed Bullock may have set the fire.

LOCAL NEWS: One arrested in deadly NW Oklahoma City shooting

Officials say the victim was a coworker of Bullocks wife. He said Bullock called him a few hours before the fire and made multiple threats because the victim had given Bullocks wife a gift. Records show Bullock did call the victim several times the night of the fire, and an analysis of surveillance footage shows Bullock arriving at the victims apartment complex shortly before the fire started. Footage also shows Bullock stopping at a gas station nearby to buy $.50 of gasoline minutes before the fire, and an expert testimony confirmed there was a presence of gas in the debris samples.

The Dept. of Justice says Bullock faces no less than five years and up to 25 years in federal prison, as well as fines up to $500,000.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 24. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its staff conclusion statement on Uzbekistan, Trend reports.

According to the statement, the IMF projects that Uzbekistans real gross domestic product (GDP) will amount to 5.4 percent in 2024. This indicator is down by 0.6 percent year-on-year (6 percent in 2023).

"While remittances fell back to the pre-2022 trend, an expansionary fiscal stance, a surge in fixed investment, and buoyant private consumption propelled real GDP growth to 6 percent in 2023. Growth remained high at 6.2 percent year-over-year in the first quarter of 2024," the fund noted.

At the same time, Uzbekistans real GDP will rise slightly to 5.5 percent in 2025.

Meanwhile, the IMF anticipates that Uzbekistans real GDP will stand at 5.5 percent in 2028.

Uzbekistan plans to bring GDP to $160 billion by 2030, and the volume of exports is planned to increase to $45 billion as opposed to $18.5 billion in 2022.

The volume of GDP in Uzbekistan amounted to $80.4 billion in 2022, an increase of 13 percent compared to $69.24 billion in 2021.
Former state Rep. Stephen Webber of Columbia, a Democratic candidate for state Senate, speaks Feb. 2 at the Camp Carnahan candidate training session in Jefferson City.(Submitted photo).

A Cole County Circuit Court judge has scheduled a hearing for 10 a.m. Friday in a lawsuit filed by Democrat Stephen Webber seeking to block Republican James Coyne from appearing on the ballot as a candidate for the Missouri Senate.

Webber claims Coyne is ineligible to run because the local Republican nominating committee missed a deadline to register his name with Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is also a defendant in the motion for a temporary restraining order.

Coyne was selected Tuesday night by the Republican Committee for the 19th State Senatorial District to be their candidate for the Boone County-based state Senate seat held by Republican Caleb Rowden, who is leaving office due to term limits.

Coyne officially filed to run in the August primary on Wednesday.

Former state Rep. Chuck Basye was running for the seat but dropped out of the race on April 25 after receiving a cancer diagnosis. The deadline for filing as a candidate in the primary election was March 26.

State law requires the district nominating committee meet to select a new candidate within two weeks of being formally notified by the Secretary of State that a candidate has withdrawn.

In his lawsuit, Webber says Ashcroft notified the Boone County nominating committee of the vacancy on April 25. The nominating committee met on May 5 but failed to select a candidate at that time. Webber claims the selection of Coyne this week falls beyond the deadline for making a nomination.

The Boone County Republican party has churned through candidates and drug this process out as long as possible, Webbers attorney, Chuck Hatfield, said in a statement. As they continue to push the limits of candidate recruitment we want to make sure that the process they use is fair, transparent and in compliance with our governing documents.

The lawsuit claims Webber was harmed when Coyne entered the race as he let key staff leave his campaign after Republicans failed to nominate someone at their May 5 meeting.

This story originally appeared in the Columbia Missourian. It can be republished in print or online.

The post Democrat files lawsuit to keep GOP candidate off Missouri Senate ballot appeared first on Missouri Independent.
When Marlene Galan-Woods was set up on a blind date with her late husband, former Arizona Attorney General Grant Woods, she bristled to hear that he was a Republican.

She says she agreed to the date only after learning that Woods supported abortion rights.

Galan-Woods, now running in the Democratic primary in Arizonas 1st Congressional District, didnt hold her party affiliation to the same standard.

She was a registered Republican until 2018, her campaign confirmed, even while the GOP pushed for restrictions on abortions, a major issue this election year.

Facing attacks from her primary rivals, she insists that her principles on Democrats top issues have stayed consistent, and the ascent of former President Donald Trump is what pushed her away from the party.

I have always been pro-choice, pro-democracy, pro-climate. My values have never changed. What changed was the Republican Party, she said in a recent televised debate.

Congressional District 1 candidate Marlene Galan-Woods gives an opening statement while debating fellow Democratic candidates at BitFire Studio in Phoenix on May 15, 2024.

Still, the GOPs positions on many of those topics, well before the rise of Trump, contrast with the values that Galan-Woods espouses in her congressional campaign.

During the time that Galan-Woods was a registered Republican, the party mobilized its voters around repealing the landmark abortion rights case Roe vs. Wade. The party roundly opposed action to mitigate climate change, stoking doubt in the scientific consensus that human activity was causing the planet to warm. And it backed Senate Bill 1070, Arizonas controversial immigration-enforcement law.

In an interview, she declined opportunities to discuss specific policy positions or views that made her align with Republicans in the past. Instead, she said that her family background pushed her toward the Republican Party, that politics was often not top-of-mind for her as a busy mom, and she cast her vote based on individual candidates rather than party affiliation.

"My thought process was less about party and more about country, she said.

What first drew Galan-Woods to the GOP?

Galan-Woods traces her political coming-of-age back to her family history. Her parents were refugees who fled communism in Cuba and had a strong sense of American patriotism.

"They were Republicans because of where they came from, she said. "At the time, in the 60s and 70s  the Republican Party was vocal on being anti-Communism."

Galan-Woods said she disagreed with many of the partys policy positions at the time. She said S.B. 1070 was terrifying to her as a Latina woman and mother worried about racial profiling, and she diverged from the party on abortion rights.

"There was a time where there was room for a pro-choice Republican. Those days are gone, she said.

Still, in 2009 she made a $140 donation to former Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer, who went on to sign S.B. 1070 into law, according to the campaign finance website OpenSecrets. Her husband was Brewers campaign co-chair during her successful 2010 campaign. She wrote several social media posts in support of the 2012 GOP presidential nominee, Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, though she says in hindsight she wished she had voted for former President Barack Obama.

Democratic Congressional District 1 candidates Andrei Cherny and Marlene Galan-Woods shake hands before debating at BitFire Studio in Phoenix on May 15, 2024.

After the rise of Trump, she began to feel the party resembled the type of politics her ancestors fled.

The Republican Party has been driven off a cliff by Donald Trump and people like (incumbent U.S. Rep.) David Schweikert. It is unrecognizable from the party that my parents aligned with in the '60s."

Former nonprofit executive Kurt Kroemer, another candidate in the primary, argued on the debate stage that Galan-Woods was overselling just how much the GOP has changed.

The Republican Party has never been for comprehensive immigration reform. The Republican Party has never been for a womans right to choose. The Republican Party has never wanted to protect Social Security, Medicare, Kroemer said.

Theyve always, for decades, tried to eviscerate it. The Republican Party has always tried to minimize the ability of people to vote. That hasnt changed for decades.

Democratic Congressional District 1 candidate Marlene Galan-Woods prepares to give opening remarks during a debate with fellow candidates at BitFire Studio in Phoenix on May 15, 2024.

Once a Republican, now a '100%' reliable Democratic vote

In many ways, Galan-Woods political evolution mirrors the district she is running to represent. Arizonas 1st Congressional District, which stretches across most of northeastern Maricopa County, has plenty of voters who have broken from the GOP to reject Trump-aligned candidates.

Schweikert's is one of the few Republican-held congressional seats whose voters chose President Joe Biden in 2020.

And in 2022, Kari Lake, the Trump-endorsed candidate for governor who promoted false election claims and is now running for the U.S. Senate, lost in the 1st Congressional District at a margin five times greater than statewide.

Despite her history as a Republican, Galan-Woods said she would 100% be a reliable vote for Democratic priorities in Congress.

She pointed to her endorsements from the abortion-rights group EMILYs List, Arizonas Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes, and labor unions as evidence that Democrat-aligned groups trust her.

She would oppose renewing the Trump-era tax cut provisions that would expire during her term in Congress. She said that the wealthiest corporations need to pay their fair share but she is undecided on the question of raising taxes on wealthy individuals and big corporations beyond that.

"I am in favor of sunsetting the Trump tax giveaway. Other than that, once I get to Congress, I'll let you know after we figure it all out, she said. "I think it's shortsighted to think you have all the answers today."

Laura Gersony covers national politics for the Arizona Republic. Contact her at lgersony@gannett.com or 480-372-0389.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Marlene Galan-Woods opens up about her past as a Republican
All Democratic incumbents won their primaries, and one open race remains too close to call. (Ron Cooper/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

All incumbent House Democrats won their primary campaigns, while one open race in Corvallis remained too close to call after the first few days of vote-counting.

With several Democrats from safe districts retiring or running for higher offices, most contested House primaries were for seats in which the primary, not the general election, determines which candidate will represent the area. And with one exception, all races were decisively settled with the first round of results on Tuesday night.

In every single race where an incumbent House Democrat was challenged in the primary, the incumbent representative won by an extremely wide margin, so that I found really affirming and encouraging, said House Majority Leader Ben Bowman, D-Tigard. Our voters are supportive of the last couple of legislative sessions and the work thats happened over the last few years.

Bowman was also relieved to see higher turnout among Democratic voters than Republicans in a handful of swing districts, though he said he wont take anything for granted as Democrats fight to keep  and potentially expand  their 10-seat majority in the state House.

The 16th House District race between Corvallis school board members Sami Al-Abdrabbuh and Sarah Finger McDonald remained too close to call, with McDonald leading by just 188 votes. Benton County plans to release additional results on May 29.

8th District: Outside money in Eugene

Lisa Fragala, a Lane Community College Board director and university partnership coordinator for Pacific University, will replace House Speaker Pro Tem Paul Holvey, D-Eugene, in the safely Democratic 8th House District. She captured about 74% of the vote to 26% for Doyle Canning, an attorney and past congressional candidate who now works as Portland Democratic Rep. Khanh Phams legislative director.

Lisa Fragala won the Democratic nomination in the 8th House District. (Campaign photo)

The race was rocked by more than $130,000 in negative spending against Canning from Eugene is Ready, a political action committee formed by former Democratic state Rep. Brian Clem and funded with part of the $1 million loan he gave his Oregonians are Ready PAC, which exists to elect moderate Democrats.

Clem told the Capital Chronicle ahead of the primary that his spending in the 8th District was personal: Former U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio has been a hero of Clems since he worked in DeFazios office while in high school. Clem was still upset over Cannings 2020 primary challenge to DeFazio, in which she described him as weak on the environment. DeFazio endorsed Fragala and told OPB that he hasnt forgiven Canning.

I am fairly certain Lisa is not a centrist but I trust Peter implicitly and am happy to facilitate the expression of his views on the race, Clem said.

Fragala raised more than $170,000 and spent more than $150,000, while Canning raised $96,000 and spent almost $92,000, state campaign finance records show. The role of independent expenditures in the race could prove a harbinger of future Oregon legislative races when campaign contributions limits passed by the Legislature this year take effect in 2027.

Fragala didnt mince words when speaking about the independent expenditures in the race.

I think it was a disservice to both candidates in the race, and I think it was a disservice to our community, she said.

She said candidates should strive to do what she did in her campaign: Focus on their values, why theyre the right person to serve the community and what theyre passionate about.

Very few people asked me about the independent expenditures, she said. They wanted to share their stories, and they wanted to hear what I was going to work on. And so thats what I think candidates need to focus on.

No Republicans ran in the district.

33rd District: A new voice in northwest Portland

Marine veteran and addiction treatment nonprofit founder Shannon Jones Isadore will replace state Rep. Maxine Dexter in the 33rd House District in northwest Portland. Like Dexter, a physician who is now the Democratic nominee in the 3rd Congressional District, Isadore has experience treating people who struggle with addiction.

Shannon Jones Isadore, a Democratic candidate for state House District 33. (Provided)

She founded the Oregon Change Clinic, which provides addiction treatment and supportive housing in a 37-bed former motel. And she has family experience with addiction and criminalization: Her father spent much of her childhood in and out of prison because of drug addiction.

Isadore captured almost 51% of the vote in a race against surgeon Brian Duty and attorney Pete Grabiel. Shell face either retired accountant Stan Baumhofer or forest consultant Dick Courter in the November general election  just 17 votes separated the two Republicans as of Thursday afternoon.

But Isadore is all but certain to be sworn into office in January, as the district overwhelmingly favors Democrats. Shes also likely to be the only Black woman in the state Legislature, as Rep. Janelle Bynum, D-Clackamas, is now the Democratic nominee in the 5th Congressional District.

46th District: Public defender prevails

Willy Chotzen, a Democratic candidate in the primary for state House District 46 seat. (Provided)

Public defender Willy Chotzen defeated retired public health nurse Mary Lou Hennrich in the reliably blue 46th House District in southeast Portland. Current Rep. Khanh Pham, D-Portland, is running for a vacant state Senate seat.

No Republicans filed, and Chotzen is all but certain to take office in January. He told the Capital Chronicle ahead of the primary that he hopes to build a consensus around good ideas in the statehouse without seeking the spotlight.

Im not someone whos super focused on who gets credit for something, he said. Im really good at bringing people on board with an idea and finding ways to build alliances.

Chotzen raised more than $160,000 for his campaign, more than double Hennrichs $63,000. Hennrich, who was the first CEO of the Medicaid insurer CareOregon, was endorsed by Gov. Tina Kotek, who otherwise stayed out of legislative races, and by legislative health care committee chairs Rep. Rob Nosse, D-Portland, and Sen. Deb Patterson, D-Salem.

Incumbents fend off challengers

Reps. Farrah Chaichi of Beaverton, Jules Walters of West Linn and Hoa Nguyen of Portland easily defeated challengers.

Chaichi, a freshman who quickly emerged as one of the most progressive members of the House, beat aerospace sales and business development director Casey Zimmerman with nearly 78% of the vote in the 35th House District in Beaverton and Aloha. Shell face Republican retired Navy hospital corpsman Dan Martin in November, and the district favors Democrats.

I ran based on the theory that if I stood up for working class people, they would have my back when I was challenged, Chaichi said in a statement. Our campaign would not have been possible without support from so many hard working volunteers. I am honored to stand with you in the fight for an Oregon where we center human rights to dignity and prosperity.

Walters captured nearly 90% of the vote in her primary race against Brian Maguire, a data storage company CEO and longtime Republican donor. As the Capital Chronicle first reported, Maguire has given nearly $400,000 to state and federal Republican candidates and causes over the past 20 years, including supporting former Republican President Donald Trump and giving $25,000 apiece to the last two Republicans to run for governor in Oregon.

Walters will face Republican Ben Edtl in November. The suburban 37th House District south of Portland also favors Democrats.

Nguyen won with about 73% of the vote over clinical trial manager Elizabeth Petersen in the 48th House District in southeast Portland. The district is one of a handful of races expected to be close in the general election, where Nguyen will meet small business owner John Masterman.

The post Democratic Oregon House incumbents win primaries, one race remains too close to call appeared first on Oregon Capital Chronicle.
FILE - Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito pauses after swearing in Mark Esper as Secretary of Defense during a ceremony with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, July 23, 2019. A second flag of a type carried by rioters during the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, was displayed outside a house owned by Alito according to a report published May 22, 2024, by The New York Times. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Two Democratic senators are requesting a meeting with Chief Justice John Roberts after reports that two separate flags carried by rioters at the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol had flown outside of houses owned by Justice Samuel Alito.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., a member of the Judiciary panel, wrote Roberts on Thursday asking him for a meeting to discuss Supreme Court ethics and to take steps to ensure that Alito recuses himself from any cases before the court concerning the Jan. 6 attack or former President Donald Trumps attempts to overturn his 2020 election defeat.

We request a meeting with you as soon as possible, in your capacity as Chief Justice and as presiding officer of the Judicial Conference of the United States, to discuss additional steps to address the Supreme Courts ethics crisis, Durbin and Whitehouse wrote to Roberts in a letter released Friday by both offices.

The senators letter comes as another conservative justice, Clarence Thomas, has ignored calls to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election over his wife, Ginni Thomas, support for Trump and as public trust in the Supreme Court is at its lowest point in at least 50 years.

The court did not respond to a request for comment regarding the letter.

The court is considering two major cases related to the Capitol attack, including charges faced by the rioters and whether Trump has immunity from prosecution on election interference charges. Alito is participating in both cases and has rejected calls from Democrats in the past to recuse in on other issues.

The New York Times reported last week that an inverted American flag was seen at Alitos home outside Washington less than two weeks after the attack on the Capitol. This week the paper reported that an  Appeal to Heaven  flag was flown outside of the justices beach home in New Jersey last summer. Both flags were carried by rioters who violently stormed the Capitol in January 2021 echoing Trumps false claims of election fraud.

Alito has said the inverted American flag was flown by his wife amid a dispute with neighbors, and he had no part in it. He and the court declined to respond to requests for comment on how the Appeal to Heaven flag came to be flying and what it was intended to express.

Judicial ethics codes focus on the need for judges to be independent, avoiding political statements or opinions on matters they could be called on to decide. The Supreme Court had long gone without its own code of ethics, but it adopted one in November 2023 in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices.

The code lacks a means of enforcement, though, and the Judiciary panel approved legislation last year that would set stricter standards. But Republicans have been staunchly opposed to any efforts to tell the court what to do.

Durbin and Whitehouse said they will continue to pressure the court. But the appeal for a meeting is a new approach after Roberts declined to testify at a hearing on Supreme Court ethics last year.

Until the Court and the Judicial Conference take meaningful action to address this ongoing ethical crisis, we will continue our efforts to enact legislation to resolve this crisis, they wrote.

___

Associated Press writers Mark Sherman and Lindsey Whitehurst contributed to this report.
Former House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-MI)(R), during a news conference | Mark Wilson/Getty Images

Story updated at 3:44 p.m.

New allegations of apparent fraud have been submitted to the Michigan Board of State Canvassers (BSC), this time focusing on the nominating petitions of former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake) in his run for the U.S. Senate.

The Michigan Democratic Party (MDP), the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) and a Michigan voter, Emily Judd, initially asked the BSC on May 17 to investigate the nominating petitions of four of the five candidates seeking the GOP nomination  Rogers, as well as former U.S. Reps. Justin Amash (I-Cascade Twp.) and Peter Meijer (R-Grand Rapids), and businessman Sandy Pensler. The complaints allege instances of potential forgery, among other accusations.

On Friday, a supplemental letter was sent to the canvassing board saying that additional indications of apparently fraudulent signatures on Rogers petitions had been uncovered, including:

Declarations from 19 Michigan voters stating they did not sign or do not recall signing the petitions

Errors and markers similar to those previously confirmed by the Board of State Canvassers to be indications of fraud

Petition sheets containing significant numbers of signatures from geographically disparate parts of Michigan

Additional indications of a potential round-robin scheme

Voters not registered in Michigan



Circulators who have been accused of engaging in fraudulent signature collection activity in other petition challenges before the Board of State Canvassers.

Rogers, Amash and Pensler remain in the race to replace Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who is retiring. Meijer previously dropped out of the race, but had already submitted his petitions for review.

Also running for the GOP nomination is physician Sherry ODonnell, who was not named in either letter.

The supplemental letter, which included more than 160 pages of exhibits, alleged that Rogers nominating petitions contain 12,293 signatures submitted by circulators who potentially engaged in fraud, while a review of Rogers sample showed that approximately 23% of signatures were from unregistered voters.

If that figure is extrapolated to the entire universe of signatures, a total of 15,965 signatures may be implicated, bringing Rogers below the 15,000 signature threshold, stated a press release.

Among the allegations in the supplemental letter are that six voters say their names and signatures were forged on petition sheets for Rogers, as they did not fill out or sign them. Included among them is a declaration from Mary Alexander that her brother, DeWayne Washington, whose name appears on the same sheet as hers, was deceased. And, in fact, included among the exhibits in the letter is a copy of his 2022 obituary.

When asked about the allegations, Chris Gustafson, the communications director for the Rogers campaign sent the Michigan Advance a statement.

Its as illegitimate as the last one; Democrats didnt file a legal challenge in time and are lashing out because Mike Rogers will be on the ballot and they know they cant beat him. Any coverage of that baseless letter is not journalism, but complicit engagement in election interference, Gustafson said.

Later Friday afternoon, however, the Rogers campaign sent an email to supporters saying that the letter from the MDP and DSCC lacks any merit and fails to meet the requirements of state law as it was not submitted prior to the May 2, 2024 deadline and lacks notarization as required by MCL 168.552(8). As such, the letter will be dismissed.

It also included a quote from Gustafson.

Elissa Slotkin is so terrified to face Mike Rogers in November that she enlisted DC liberal elitist lawyer Marc Elias to release this meritless letter three weeks after the challenge deadline in an attempt to subvert democracy, silence Michigan voters, and distract from her failed record on the cost of gas, groceries, and securing the border. We are confident this letter will be dismissed. Michiganders can rest assured we will respond outlining the baseless lies within this political stunt, he said.

While the period set aside to challenge petition signatures is seven days after they are turned in, Christopher Trebilcock, and attorney with Clark Hill PLC who authored both letters, noted that the BSC has the authority-and, practically speaking, a duty-to conduct a full investigation of candidates nominating petitions, even absent a formal or timely complaint.

2024-05-23-MI-Senate-Petitions-Follow-Up-Letter-Exhibits

That was the case in 2022, when a petition fraud scandal resulted in five GOP gubernatorial candidates being kicked off the primary ballot.

One of the attorneys involved in that effort, Steve Liedel, tells the Advance that the challenge period is simply a procedural deadline for a particular form of complaint, but does not at all impact the Board of State Canvassers sworn duty to ensure that the petitions are legal and meet all of the requirements.

Thats the duty under the statute, said, Leidel, who served as counsel to Democratic former Gov. Jennifer Granholm. There are various elements of that in timelines and procedures, but at the end of the day, before a candidate is placed on the ballot, the Board of State Canvassers has an obligation to make that determination.

Liedel is not personally representing any Senate campaign this cycle, although his firm represents Democratic candidate Hill Harper.

He said regardless of what is or is not challenged in the initial seven days, candidates and their campaigns have the ultimate responsibility to make sure the signatures they are submitting are valid.

I hear a lot of allegations from Republican candidates and other Republicans about dead voters voting, he said. Well, if dead voters shouldnt vote, should dead voters sign petitions?

Liedel also said if evidence of fraud is brought forward, state officials have a duty under the election law to refer that to law enforcement, as well as the BSC.

For the Board of State Canvassers to ignore it because of a deadline, I mean, the fraud occurred long before the deadline, right? And so either there are fraudulent signatures or there are not. Either there are sufficient signatures or there are not, and thats the process that the board is undertaking, he said.

Democrats are not immune to petition scandals, either.

Former state Sen. Adam Hollier (D-Detroit) was disqualified this week from the August primary ballot for the 13th Congressional District after Wayne County Clerk Cathy Garrett confirmed Hollier had failed to submit enough valid voter signatures as had been alleged in a petition challenge mounted by U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Detroit), the first-term incumbent.

The Board of State Canvassers will next meet May 31. Currently, the only candidates for the U.S. Senate race that are listed as being officially challenged are U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) and businessman Nasser Beydoun, two of three Democrats seeking the nomination.

Trebilcock also authored a letter last week to the BSC on behalf of the Slotkin campaign, noting that the challenge filed against her campaign was made by an agent of Harpers campaign, calling it an unserious complaint and claimed that it did not follow the Board of State Canvassers procedure for signature sampling.

This story was updated to add in information included in an email from the Rogers campaign to its supporters.

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The post Democrats lodge new fraud allegations against Rogers U.S. Senate petitions appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Democrats rip state GOP convention. Say party is out of line with Texas values

Democratic Texas lawmakers gathered outside the Henry B. Gonazles Convention Center Friday morning to speak out against the Texas Republican convention taking place inside.

Speakers included state Reps. Joaquin Castro, Trey Martinez Fischer and Josey Garcia of the San Antonio area, Rep. Gene Wu of Houston and Rep. Vikki Goodwin of Austin.

Martinez Fischer mentioned that Republican Gov. Greg Abbott would not be attending in person, as he was scheduled to, but rather remotely.

You know how bad things are in a Republican Party when the governor will choose to Zoom it in than to come down for an hour to tell his party that theyre out of control, Martinez Fischer said.

Abbott was slated to speak to the conference during roughly the same time of the Democrats press conference.

Abbott still had not spoken to the convention as of Friday afternoon.

Martinez Fischer also said that former Democrat U.S. Rep. Henry B. Gonzalez, the namesake of the convention center who was the longest serving Hispanic in Congress, would be rolling in his grave now with the state of the Republican Party.

Castro mentioned the mass shooting in Uvalde on its two year anniversary. Following the shooting, a bill to raise the the minimum age for buying some semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21 failed. The Legislature did pass a bill requiring armed security at every school.

After the shooting in Uvalde, just like the other mass shootings, what did Republican state leaders do? Absolutely nothing, Castro said.

Four days before Memorial Day, Wu told people to remember the sacrifice American soldiers made to fight fascism in World War II.

Well stand up to the, against the same ideas, the same principles, he said. We will stand up against racism. Well stand up against hate because those are not Texas values. And once again, 80 years later, if its necessary, we will defeat the Nazis again, Wu said.

Last time I checked, its pretty easy to get a hotel this weekend because this convention is underwhelming and its underwhelming for a reason, Martinez Fischer said Those values are out of step with mainstream Texans and theres time for a change. And thats why were here.

A spokesperson for the Texas GOP said 9,600 delegates were in attendance for the convention.

There has not been a Democrat elected to statewide office in Texas since 1994.
The University of California academic workers' strike is expected to amp up Tuesday with walkouts at UCLA and UC Davis after a state labor board declined to immediately stop it, ruling that a university complaint did not meet the legal standard required for its intervention.

UC officials had claimed that the walkout was illegal and causing such serious harm that it needed to be stopped.

The union representing 48,000 academic workers called the strike over alleged free speech violations related to Israel-Hamas protests and other harms to workers. The strike began Monday at UC Santa Cruz under a union plan to take the walkout to different colleges at different times in the 10-campus system.

While labor officials did not stop the walkout, the legality of the strike remains a pending issue before the labor board, with a ruling at least three weeks away.

The union on strike, United Auto Workers Local 4811, represents graduate student teaching assistants, tutors, researchers and other academic workers at UC campuses and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The labor action comes at a critical time in the academic year, as classes end and capstone projects, finals and grading are ahead  work in which union members play a key role.

The union praised the Thursday ruling in a social media post:

Read more: 'Maximize chaos.' UC academic workers authorize strike, alleging rights violated during protests

"Injunction against the UC strike DENIED. UC has had many chances to resolve its egregious ULPs [unfair labor practices] and it has thus far refused to engage. Now two more campuses are walking out. UCLA and UC Davis  its time to Stand Up."

Issues at stake

The academic workers contend their strike is legal under rules that permit walkouts in response to unfair labor practices. In a filing called an unfair practice charge, the union alleges that workers' free speech rights were violated when system leaders called on police to remove pro-Palestinian encampments at several campuses and activists at UCLA were not protected from an attack by pro-Israel supporters for hours. Police later moved in to dismantle the UCLA encampment, making about 200 arrests, including some members of the striking union.

A majority of voting union members authorized the strike, which could last till June 30.

The union is demanding that UC officials negotiate with pro-Palestinian demonstrators, stop actions hostile toward nonviolent activists, grant amnesty to those facing disciplinary action related to the unrest and divest from "weapons manufacturers, military contractors, and companies profiting from Israels war on Gaza."

UC officials had asserted that the labor action was illegal because of a no-strike clause in the union contract and had sought a court injunction from the California Public Employment Relations Board to immediately halt the strike. Also, UC said, the strike is unlawful because the goal is "to pressure the University to concede to a list of politically motivated demands closely linked to the protests occurring across California and the nation."

UC officials said they support free speech but that union negotiations "must be tied to terms and conditions of employment and terms in the collective bargaining agreement."

Were glad PERB has rejected UCs latest demand for special treatment under the law, said Rafael Jaime, the president of UAW 4811. UC has allowed members of the academic community to be brutalized by violent agitators, and called in police to trample on our members rights in direct contradiction to UCs own policies. Our workers have walked off the job to demand resolution of these brazen unfair labor practices. PERBs decision to deny their request for an injunction proves that no employer gets to make up its own rules.

What UC says

While UC had hoped for immediate intervention, officials on Friday acknowledged the effort involved high legal hurdles.

"Because injunctive relief is issued before PERBs process is complete, it is an extremely high standard that requires a showing of irreparable harm," the university said in a statement provided by spokesperson Heather Hansen.

The university also sharply disagrees with the union's characterization of its actions as condoning violence and trampling on rights  although in testimony before the U.S. Congress on Thursday, UCLA Chancellor Gene Block said the university made mistakes.

In his opening testimony, Block said that a pro-Palestinian encampment disrupted normal access to some classes and impeded our educational mission and that we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk.

UCLA has reassigned Police Chief John Thomas pending an investigation of security failures that left students and others in the encampment to fend for themselves against attackers for three hours on the night of April 30 before law enforcement moved in to quell the melee.

Read more: UC academic workers' strike begins as pro-Palestinian activism enters new phase

But none of these actions or events  or others cited by the union  amount to illegal mistreatment of academic workers by the university under California labor law, the university has contended.

In rejecting UC's request to stop the strike, the labor board did not address the merits of the claims by either side, concluding simply that the university did not meet the threshold required for it to intervene.

"The Board presently declines to pursue an injunction as requested by Regents of the University of California (UC), as UC has not established that injunctive relief is 'just and proper,'" stated the board's letter, which was signed by general counsel J. Felix De La Torre.

The board left the matter open "in the event it learns of evidence or facts to support a finding that injunctive relief is just and proper."

Legal battle not over

The board's action does not end the legal battle over competing claims before the panel. Labor officials still must deal with the charges of unfair labor actions from each side.

In this area, the university on Thursday made incremental progress. On the issue of the legality of the strike, the labor board issued a complaint against the union, based on UC's allegations. The complaint sets out that if the university's allegations against the union are shown to be accurate, then the strike could be judged illegal.

The University is pleased by this expedited action from PERB, said Missy Matella, associate vice president for systemwide labor relations. We have maintained from the beginning that UAWs actions violate our mutually agreed contracts. We are eager to see a quick and just resolution to this matter so that our students, faculty and staff can end this academic quarter without further disrupting their education and progress towards degree completion.

But the PERB action applauded by UC could prove a Pyrrhic victory in the short term  it does nothing to alter quickly the situation on the ground. Both sides have 20 days to submit documents in the case as the strike proceeds.

Campuses brace for impact

Shortly after the PERB decision was announced, UCLA officials sent an advisory on the pending strike to the college community.

"During the strike, those participating might cease aspects of their employment including teaching, grading assignments, tutoring, conducting research, administering programs and carrying out other work duties," officials said. "We recognize a strike could have a significant impact on our students, and we are doing all we can to mitigate major disruptions to your academic experience."

Read more: Divestment from Israel roils universities. Would it work? Some are dubious

The advisory states that on-campus demonstrations could continue but that protesters may not block vehicle or pedestrian access.

A notice also went out to the UC Berkeley campus community, warning that a strike could also soon take place there.

The union has not yet chosen Berkeley as a strike site.

"While UAW has not called for a strike at Berkeley at this time, [University of California office of the president] is asking all campuses to be prepared for potential activity should a strike be called," officials said in an email. "Wherever strike action is called, it is expected to run throughout June. Managers and supervisors, please pass this information along to your teams."

Striking academic workers picket at UC Santa Cruz on Monday. (Jessica Garrison / Los Angeles Times)

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
NEW YORK (KDVR)  Some 80 years after he first shoved off for Europe, Steven Melnikoff, 104, is headed back to the battlefield.

Yes, Im ready! Eightieth anniversary. World War II. D-Day. I dont know, this might be the last one guys, so you got to really appreciate this, Melnikoff told a crowd of veterans gathered Thursday at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

Veterans to complete ruck march from Denver to Colorado Springs

Melnikoff and several other World War II veterans boarded the Queen Mary 2 for a transatlantic voyage that will land them in England one week from now. Then theyre off to Normandy, France, for the D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations on June 6.

The veterans were given a sendoff by French school students who serenaded the World War II heroes with a rendition of La Marseillaise, the French national anthem, and The Star-Spangled Banner.

Steven Melnikoff, 104, boards the Queen Mary 2 in Brooklyn, New York

When you retire from your work, you cant retire from life

Many in the crowd peppered Melnikoff with questions about his service 80 years ago, when as part of the Armys 29th Division, he came ashore one day after D-Day and fought his way through Normandy.

He was injured days into the campaign when he took machine gun fire near a hedge row. Shot in the neck, he was taken to an aid station but soon returned to the fight. He served all the way to the end of the war, when he and his fellow soldiers crossed the Elbe River into Germany.

The students had one other question: How do you live to be 104 years old?

Well, Ill tell you this: I have a positive attitude, I love life. I like to dance, I have fun, Im active. And the one thing I tell people: When you retire from your work, you cant retire from life, Melnikoff said.

Why take an ocean liner? Its actually the very mode of transportation many World War II veterans took to Europe the first time: luxury liners, converted to troop transport ships, with thousands of soldiers crammed aboard.

Colorado veterans greeted with welcome home nearly 50 years after the war

The once-in-a-lifetime trip is sponsored by a charity started in Denver called The Greatest Generations Foundation. For 20 years, volunteers have been returning World War II and Vietnam veterans to the battlefields where they served.

And what we do is we honor the service of all generations in our military. And this particular program were on is going to honor people who served in World War II, particularly in the D-Day invasion, said James Hackett, a volunteer with the charity.

Colorado woman, 101, travels overseas for the first time

Among the veterans on the program is Marie West, 101, of Monument, Colorado. She joined the Navy WAVES, or Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services, during World War II. West was one of more than 350,000 women who volunteered for the armed forces during the war. Most of them were assigned stateside, so this will be her first time overseas.

Its a blessing, West said.

The veterans will attend daily question and answer sessions aboard the ship, and once in England and France, theyll attend services and ceremonies honoring those who never made it home from Normandy.

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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A south Florida woman was accused of giving women drugs to coerce them into having sex for money.

Elise Mizrachi of Pembroke Pines recruited heroin and fentanyl addicts and trafficked them, according to a release from Florida Attorney General Ashley Moodys office.

Mizrachi was on probation for trafficking heroin at the time. She coerced multiple Miami women and a woman from Pennsylvania into sex work, promising them an easy way to get drugs and make money, the release said.

She was accused of posting their pictures to commercial sex websites, communicating with buyers and arranging dates. Mizrachi kept most if not all of the profits, according to Moodys office.

This depraved human trafficker targeted women struggling with addiction, giving them heroin and fentanyl to coerce them to have sex in exchange for moneymost of which the defendant kept, Moody wrote in a statement. I am grateful for those who came forward to report the atrocious crimes to police.

A few women escaped Mizrachi and reported the situation to the police. She is charged with two counts of adult human trafficking and other offenses.

Anyone who witnesses or suspects human trafficking is urged to call the statewide tip line at (855)-FLA-SAFE.

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SHENZHEN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) opened on Thursday in the southern Chinese metropolis of Shenzhen.

For the first time, the five-day event has set up an international cultural trade exhibition, with an exhibition area covering 20,000 square meters.

The main venue of the fair is at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center. It consists of eight pavilions focused on areas such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's cultural industry innovation, the integration of culture and tourism, gaming and e-sports, and Guochao, also known as Chinese trends or "China chic".

A special exhibition of "Cultural and Creative China" has been set up at the fair to showcase the latest achievements in promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of fine traditional Chinese culture.

According to the organizers, the 20th ICIF, held offline and online simultaneously, has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display.

More than 300 overseas exhibitors from 60 countries and regions are participating in the fair.

Established in 2004, the fair has become a leading cultural event in China and an important platform to assist the Chinese culture in going global.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 24. President of Russia Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to Uzbekistan on May 2627, Trend reports.

According to the Uzbek president's office, the sides plan to conduct meetings at the highest level.

The presidents of both countries plan to discuss further development and deepening of Uzbek-Russian relations through a comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance.

Both sides will talk about boosting mutual trade turnover, promoting cooperation projects in economic sectors, supporting innovative cooperation programs, and continuing active cultural and humanitarian exchange.

In addition, the officials plan to adopt a package of bilateral documents at the end of the summit.

The leaders will also take part in the first meeting of the Council of Regions of Uzbekistan and Russia.

At the same time, a number of joint events are taking place in Tashkent, such as a meeting of rectors of leading engineering and technical universities, a scientific and practical medical conference and the Russian Art Week.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistans trade turnover volume with Russia amounted to $3.8 billion from January through April 2024. This figure has increased by 31 percent compared to the same period last year ($2.9 billion in January-April 2023).
HOLLAND TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  Deputies say two people were seriously injured Thursday in a crash in Holland Township.

It happened around 4:15 p.m. on 120th Avenue near Willow Wood North, according to the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office.

Deputies say a 21-year-old Holland man was heading south on 120th Avenue in a Jeep when he crossed the center line, hitting a northbound pickup truck driven by a 46-year-old Holland man.

The 21-year-old man was ejected from the Jeep, according to the sheriffs office. Both drivers were taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

The 46-year-old was wearing a seatbelt, while the 21-year-old was not, deputies say.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The road was temporarily closed for cleanup. Deputies continue to investigate.

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MADISON - The deputy secretary of the Department of Corrections is stepping up to lead the agency, after being appointed by Gov. Tony Evers.

Jared Hoy will fill the position vacated by the former secretary Kevin Carr, who stepped down in March.

Hoy has worked in the department since 2007, when he was hired as a corrections field supervisor, according to a Friday release from Evers. He's held many positions within the DOC since, including program and policy chief, policy initiatives advisor, training director, and assistant administrator and administrator of the Division of Management Services.

Jared Hoy was appointed as the new Department of Corrections secretary.

He has served as deputy secretary since 2021.

There is no more noble calling than maintaining community safety by caring for justice-involved individuals. It is why I have devoted my entire career to public service as a corrections practitioner," Hoy said in the release.

"The synchronous pursuit of protecting our communities by providing rehabilitation and second chances is what calls so many of us to this work, myself included. Im equally proud of the work our dedicated staff do every day in the continuance of this mission and humbled to be given the opportunity to further our agencys standing as an established leader in the field of corrections.

Hoy received a bachelor's degree in psychology from the College of St. Scholastica and a master's degree in community counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

Former Corrections Secretary Kevin Carr stepped down from the agency in March, at a somewhat contentious moment for the department.

Over the past year, several institutions such as the Green Bay Correctional Institution and Waupun Correctional Institution have been under unending lockdowns, limiting the movements of those incarcerated, depriving them of recreational time and requiring them to take meals inside their cells.

At Green Bay, there have been chronic issues with rodents, which some incarcerated individuals say force their way under the doors of those housed at the facility at night.

At Waupun, there have been three in-custody deaths.

In June, Dean Hoffmann, 60, died by suicide while in solitary confinement. When family questioned his death, and asked if his mental health concerns had been cared for adequately. The family last month filed a lawsuit against the department, alleging his civil rights were violated in the months leading up to his death.

In October, the Journal Sentinel reported a second and third death at the prison. The cause and manner of their deaths are still under investigation.

Carr remained largely quiet on the issues, refusing for months to speak to the press directly, despite a past history of openness.

Evers has floated the idea of an independent investigation into the deaths, after the department completes its internal investigations, but nothing has yet been announced.

Laura Schulte can be reached at leschulte@jrn.com and on Twitter at @SchulteLaura.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Deputy Secretary Jared Hoy elevated to lead Department of Corrections
Its now confirmed  the winds and tornadoes that hit our area this morning were part of a larger derecho that crossed Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois from Thursday night into Friday morning.

A derecho is classified as a widespread, long-lived wind storm.

For a tstorm complex to reach derecho criteria it must be on the ground and cover at least 400 miles. Also, it needs to be 60 miles wide or wider AND have several wind reports of at least 75 mph.

All of these thresholds were met with the storm as it moved from Western Nebraska through Des Moines and then the Quad Cities Friday morning.

Heres a map of some of the storm reports from the Storm Prediction Center:

Notice the storm reports cover an areas thats at least 600 miles long, meaning theres plenty of room to spare to meet the 400 mile criteria.

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Despite announcement, RFK Jr. is not yet on the presidential ballot in Florida

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a campaign rally at Legends Event Center on Dec. 20, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Friday that hell be on the presidential ballot in Florida in November as the nominee of the Reform Party, but the party itself is not recognized by the states Division of Elections.

An alternative political party created by Ross Perot in the mid-1990s to give voters another choice in presidential elections, Reform nominated Kennedy Jr. on Thursday night to be their presidential candidate this fall, saying in a press release that the nomination would allow him to take the Reform Partys Florida ballot line.

However, the Florida Division of Elections cancelled the Reform Partys filings as a minor political party last August, records show. That came months after the office mailed a Notice of Intent to Cancel to the party for failing to comply with a 2022 annual public audit.

A spokesman for the Reform Party told the Phoenix this afternoon that they filed this past Monday to reinstate the party in Florida. As soon as our paperwork is processed, we will be good to go, the spokesperson said.

Mark Ard, the director of external affairs for the Florida Department of State, told the Phoenix that the Reform Party has resubmitted a request to again become a recognized party in Florida and their application is currently under review. Any communication regarding the pending application will be directly with the party.

The Kennedy Jr. campaign is furiously working to get ballot access in all 50 states. Officially, his campaign says he is on the ballot in seven states: California, Delaware, Hawaii, Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas and Utah. In a press release, the campaign says that they have collected enough signatures to qualify in an additional eight states: Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, and Ohio.

If the Reform Party does win recognition by the states Division of Elections, it will allow Kennedys campaign to save the financial resources required to secure ballot access via petition. The campaign would need to collect more than 145,000 valid signatures to qualify for the Florida November ballot as an independent candidate, according to the states Federal Qualifying Handbook.

The post Despite announcement, RFK Jr. is not yet on the presidential ballot in Florida appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
A British nurse considered to be one of the U.K.s most prolific child serial killers in modern times has been refused permission to appeal her convictions over the murder of seven babies and the attempted murder of another six.

Lucy Letby on Friday lost her latest attempt to seek to overturn the convictions in a decision taken by England and Wales Court of Appeal. The 34-year-old was found guilty in August of fatally attacking children in her care at a neonatal unit at a hospital in northwest England between 2015 and 2016.

British Nurse Guilty of Murdering 7 Babies and Attempting to Kill More

Judge Victoria Sharp said at a brief hearing Friday the court had decided to refuse leave to appeal on all grounds and refuse all associated applications, according to the BBC. The judge said a full judgment will be provided at a later date.

Following her conviction, Letby was sentenced to 14 whole-life prison termsa rare punishment typically reserved for Britains most serious offenders.

The decision to deny Letbys legal challenge comes after the publication of a New Yorker investigation by Rachel Aviv earlier this month which raised questions about some of the evidence used in the trial which led to her conviction. Restrictions on the article meant that readers in Britain were unable to access it in the same way they can easily view other pieces from the magazine.

A spokesperson for the outlet told Press Gazette: To comply with a court order restricting press coverage of Lucy Letbys ongoing trial, The New Yorker has limited access to Rachel Avivs article for readers in the United Kingdom.

Letby is set to face a retrial on a single count of attempted murder in June relating to an alleged attack on a baby girl in 2016.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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UTAH COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  Detectives with the Utah County Officer Involved Critical Team are asking for help in their investigations with the murder of Sgt. Bill Hooser.

Detectives need help identifying a witness/victim, the Utah County Sheriffs Office said.

READ NEXT: Man runs from critical injury crash over Mothers Day weekend, police say

According to a press release, just after Santaquin Police Sergeant Bill Hooser was killed on May 5, security footage at the local Maverick shows a male suspect attempt to take a car at the gas pumps. The driver of that car was reportedly putting gas in the car when it happened.

Deputies said it appears the driver of the car had a verbal exchange with the suspect.

The suspect reportedly was using a crutch to walk, had a pony tail, and was driving a silver sedan.

Courtesy Utah County Sheriffs Office

Courtesy Utah County Sheriffs Office

Courtesy Utah County Sheriffs Office

Courtesy Utah County Sheriffs Office

If you can help us identify this person, please contact Sergeant Justin Gordon of the Utah County Sheriffs Office at 801-851-4010, or by email at justing@utahcounty.gov

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
A residential project that could add over 500 homes in Statesville is primed to move forward.

Statesville area targeted for 1,000-plus homes

The Statesville City Council on May 20 approved the second and final reading of a rezoning request from Bayard Development. The applicant, which is affiliated with Charlotte-based The Bayard Group, is proposing a project named Warren Woods with 463 to 512 single-family homes. Bayard rezoned 244 acres on Mocksville Highway for the development. Final rezoning approval came after the first reading passed on May 8 after a public hearing.

Bayards Ken Holbrooks told the Charlotte Business Journal that he hopes to begin site work late this year or early in 2025.

Keep reading on CBJs website here.












Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) announced Thursday he would call the GOP-controlled state Legislature into a special session next week to discuss getting both President Biden and former President Trump on the states fall ballot.

Democrats have been unable to certify Biden as their nominee in the state  a largely procedural issue where both parties have to certify their presidential candidate with the state ahead of the states deadline  because the Democratic National Convention takes place after the Ohio certification deadline.

In this case, presidential nominees must be certified 90 days before the election, but the convention happens after that timeline.

Normally, one of the solutions would be a legislative fix, such as tweaking the certification deadline, but the state House and Senate have deadlocked on passing legislation this month, which would help create a fix to get Biden on the ballot.

DeWine said in a statement that he would be calling lawmakers into session Tuesday to address the issue.

Ohio is running out of time to get the sitting president of the United States on the ballot this fall. Failing to do so is unacceptable, DeWine said.

The purpose of the session will be for the General Assembly to pass legislation ensuring that both major party presidential candidates will be on the Ohio ballot in November, as well as legislation that would prohibit campaign spending by foreign nationals, he explained.

Ohio Republicans in the General Assembly took different paths toward trying to get Biden on the ballot. Senate Republicans took an existing childcare campaign fund bill to include a one-time legislative fix that would change the timeline in which Democrats needed to certify their candidate from 90 days to 74 days to accommodate the Democrats convention.

But the bill also included another provision that would ban foreign nationals from contributing money to ballot campaign initiatives, which drew opposition from Democrats. Democrats believe Republicans were upset after the party was able to scuttle a special election in August that defeated a ballot measure at the center of an abortion rights fight and for successfully passing an abortion rights measure in November.

Republicans have previously targeted Swiss donor Hansjorg Wyss for donating to groups that ultimately aided Democrats in those two elections.

State House Republicans, instead, had been pursuing a clean bill that would have permanently changed the certification deadline from 90 days before the election to 74 days.

While state Senate Republicans passed their solution, House Republicans didnt take it up for a vote. The House informally passed its legislative fix, but lawmakers were unable to proceed until soon thereafter.

Both parties have underscored that Biden would be on the ballot in November, though the path forward became more uncertain. Democrats had been mulling potential court action or another workaround fix with the convention.

DeWines announcement suggests neither of those options should be considered, though his push to pass the Senates proposal is likely to anger Democrats. DeWines move was applauded by the Senate GOP caucus.

We agree with the Governor. It is time to protect Ohios elections by outlawing foreign campaign contributions, while at the same time fixing the Democratic Partys error that kept Joe Biden off the November ballot. We encourage the Speaker and Minority Leader to allow a vote on House Bill 114 which does both, said John Fortney, a spokesperson for state Senate President Matt Huffman (R), in a statement.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
DeWine calls for special session to get President Biden on Ohio ballot

Gov. Mike DeWine called a rare special session of the General Assembly next week to pass legislation ensuring that President Joe Biden is on Ohios 2024 ballot.

DeWine instructed the legislature to meet during an impromptu press conference Thursday.

Ohio is running out of time to get Joe Biden, the sitting President of the United States, on the ballot this fall. Failing to do so is simply unacceptable. This is ridiculous. This is (an) absurd situation, DeWine said, according to the AP.

While current Ohio law requires elections officials to certify the November ballot 90 days before the election on Aug. 7, Biden will not be nominated until the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19. Lawmakers then had until May 9 to pass a measure that could be signed into law.

>> Dayton Unit NAACP wants stiffer penalties for people who prompt police pursuits

DeWine said he spoke to LaRose on Thursday and he said were up against a wall. LaRose told him next Wednesday is the drop-dead deadline.

Ive waited. Ive been patient. And my patience has run out, DeWine said.

The last time Ohio lawmakers were ordered back to Columbus in such a manner was in 2004, under Republican Gov. Bob Taft, to consider campaign finance reform.








TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 24. Uzbekistan Airways will launch direct flights from the nation's Samarkand (Uzbekistan), to Irkutsk (Russia), Trend reports.

According to the airlines, the flights will be operated starting June 16, every week on Sundays.

Earlier, Uzbekistan Airways announced launching flights between Samarkand and Nizhny Novgorod (Russia) on May 9. The flights between the two cities will be operated on Thursdays.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan's international airports served 25,360 flights from January through March 2024. This indicator has increased by 40 percent compared to the same period last year.

A total of 8,022 flights were operated on domestic routes and 17,338 on international routes.

In addition, 16,597 flights were performed by resident airlines and 8,763 flights by non-resident airlines.
Title icon

The News

Last year, Democratic strategists resurrected the Dirt Road Democrats PAC, a group built to help the party in rural areas where it had been wiped out. This month, two Democrats who saw that firsthand joined the PAC for its 2024 reboot: Brandon Presley, who narrowly lost the 2023 race for governor of Mississippi, and Chris Jones, who lost Arkansas 2022 gubernatorial race but outran other Democrats on the ticket. They talked with Americana about what they lived through, and what they want to do to rescue the party, and this is an edited transcript of the conversation.

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Q&A

Americana: What knowledge do you bring to this that the average Democrat in a suburb somewhere doesnt know?

Brandon Presley: We went to places that hadnt seen a candidate for governor, ever  quite frankly, places that a lot of Democrats thought they should write off. Forrest County, Miss., is a good example. It hadnt voted for a Democrat for governor since 1979, and we flipped it. We did it by showing up and giving a little bit different perspective. You just cant ignore people into voting for you. Thats a dumb political playbook.

Chris Jones: I went to all 75 counties at least three times, and what I heard was, Democrats hadnt been around here for decades. No politician had been around in forever. The number of people that we were able to persuade and convince was amazing. And my opponent, Sarah Sanders, ended up underperforming every other statewide Republican. She spent $18 million on a race in a red state where she had 100% name recognition, and the President and a former governor were behind her.

Americana: Mississippi hasnt elected a Democratic governor for a long time; Arkansas turned to the GOP a little more recently. What reasons were you finding when youd met people who were done with Democrats? If they used to be Democrats, whyd they leave?

Chris Jones: The beauty of Dirt Road Democrats that we can support infrastructure for state parties that hasnt been deployed in quite a while. And then and when we support infrastructure, and we show up, thats where the difference happens. When I ran my race, Arkansas Democrats fielded the smallest number of state legislative candidates in probably over two decades  maybe ever. When you dont have candidates on the ballot, and you dont give people a choice, then they dont exercise their vote. I also found that small town newspapers simply werent hearing from us at all. So, I started writing a weekly column in the smallest of newspapers across the state.

Brandon Presley: Theres a city in Mississippi, Horn Lake, that President Biden carried with almost 60% of the vote. In the last couple of mayoral elections, Democrats didnt field candidates for every seat there. Thats not respecting the voters.

Americana: What did you actually run on that seemed to connect?

Brandon Presley: Medicaid expansion, cutting the sales tax on groceries, opening up government to the people, cutting car tags  those were kitchen-table issues that actually have an effect on peoples lives. Look, Im sick and tired of people acting as if Democrats arent tax cutters. I cut property taxes twice as a mayor, I voted against more rate increases as a Public Service Commissioner than anybody in state history. And after the election, we came very close to passing Medicaid expansion in some form in Mississippi, through the Republican legislature. That is a direct effect of showing up talking to people.

Chris Jones: I heard some of the same concerns from people  hospitals closing, broadband access. But we were also battling a combination of misinformation and no information. The Republicans are putting out all sorts of crazy information about Democrats and were not there to combat it. I had a conversation with a lady, who was so sincere when she told me that Democrats sacrifice babies and worship Baal. You know, I kept talking, and by the end of the conversation, she had changed her tone. But when you ignore people they get sucked into misinformation.

Americana: Well, a lot of the national Democratic message right now is about abortion and choice, which plays very well in metropolitan and suburban areas. But that voter sounds like someone who sounds pretty happy with the abortion status quo in Arkansas.

Chris Jones: Its less about shaping a particular message and more about supporting candidates and organizations that are going to show up. Bill Clinton gave me some advice. If there are five hot topics, you should avoid three and only talk about two. Let people know where you stand, how you feel, and what you believe in, because theyll show up if youre honest with them.

Americana: Youre trying to convince more people to make the jump and run for office; one factor weighing on people is that theyd be running with Biden, who isnt popular. So what would be your advice to candidates worried about the drag on the ticket?

Chris Jones: I was just thinking about this the other day. There was a big announcement here about $23 million of investments in a nursing program. It was an amazing resource. And at the announcement, the governor had a big check with her name on it, and no mention that the money came from the Biden administration. A lot of great things have happened, but if youre not directly talking to people, it doesnt matter. Youve got to build for the long-term and youve got to start early.

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Diverging diamond set to open at I-75 and Clark Road in Sarasota County

Construction along Interstate 75 will close all interchange ramps and a section of Clark Road the weekend of June 1, the Florida Department of Transportation announced.

FDOTs implementation of a Diverging Diamond Interchange  which is designed to reduce traffic volume  will shut down I-75 exit 205, as well as all access to the section of Clark Road (State Road 72) between Catamaran Drive and Queensbury Boulevard from Saturday, June 1 at 7 p.m. to Sunday, June 2 at 1 p.m.

Construction along I-75 will close all interchange ramps and a section of Clark Road the weekend of June 1; the Florida Department of Transportation will post signage for reroutes.

The closure will allow workers to install new signs and traffic signals, as well as restripe lanes, FDOT said.

Drivers cruising along I-75 will be diverted to Bee Ridge Road at Exit 207 to reach Clark Road, and those on Clark Road will be redirected to Honore Avenue and Proctor Road. FDOT will post detour signs to indicate alternate routes.

FDOT already has a Diverging Diamond Interchanges at exit 213 of I-75 at University Parkway as well as another two under consideration at I-75 and Fruitville Road and Bee Ridge Road.

A Coast analysis of federal traffic data found the Sarasota-Bradenton metropolitan area had the sixth busiest highways in the southern United States.

The diverging diamond interchange will be ready for traffic on the afternoon of June 2.

Christian Casale covers local government for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Contact him at ccasale@gannett.com or follow him on Twitter @vanityhack

Two new traffic lanes on Clark Road, beneath the Interstate 75 overpass, when they were ready for asphalt in May 2023. The lanes will become the northbound on-ramp for the new diverging diamond interchange which is set to open June 2.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Construction to close Interstate 75 and Clark Road in Sarasota
(Photo by Scott Bauer/USDA Agricultural Research Service)

A northeast Iowa dairy farm modified its manure control system for an expansion of its operation without state approval and did not install a barrier to contain potential leaks, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Brian and Carole Sipley, of Fredericksburg, recently agreed to pay a $5,000 fine, a DNR order said. They further will construct a containment structure around a large metal tank that holds manure water and post a sign nearby that alerts anyone who digs in the area that there is underground plumbing that goes to the tank.

The Sipleys operate BCS Farms and got approval from the DNR in May 2023 to build a new confinement barn to hold about 150 dairy cattle. They initially proposed to use an underground system that recirculates and filters water that is used to wash manure from the barn floor.

The expansion increased the farms capacity to about 1,130 mature dairy cattle and 625 immature cattle, DNR records show.

In November during a visit to the site, a DNR officer noted that a different washing system had been installed with a tank that holds water that is collected from manure storage basins. Dairy farms often reuse the water to conserve their water usage.

Its not that its not acceptable to us, its just not what was in the permit, said Brian Jergenson, a senior environmental specialist for the department.

Further, the Sipleys had populated the new barn with cattle before they received written approval from the DNR, which was also required by the permit.

The post DNR: Dairy farm altered construction plans without spill protection appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick | States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other healthcare professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on West Virginia Watch.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

Letter not the official way

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other health care professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

Biden administration interpretation

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other healthcare professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Photo by Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other health care professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other healthcare professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on Wisconsin Examiner.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care.

Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other healthcare professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other healthcare professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, May 24. Uzbekistan Airways will launch flights from Qarshi (Uzbekistan) to St. Petersburg (Russia), Trend reports.

According to the airlines, the flights will be operated on Mondays starting June 24.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan Airways will also launch direct flights from Samarkand (Uzbekistan) to Irkutsk (Russia) on June 16. The flights will be operated every week on Sundays.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan's international airports served 25,360 flights from January through March 2024. This indicator has increased by 40 percent compared to the same period last year.

A total of 8,022 flights were operated on domestic routes and 17,338 on international routes.

In addition, 16,597 flights were performed by resident airlines and 8,763 flights by non-resident airlines.
Protesters gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court on April 24, 2024, while justices hear oral arguments about whether federal law protects emergency abortion care. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Doctors from throughout the country posted a public letter this week, urging the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure health care professionals can perform abortions in every state when that procedure is essential stabilizing treatment under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act.

Thousands of doctors, organized by the advocacy group The Committee to Protect Health Care, signed the letter that calls on the justices to decide in favor of the Biden administrations interpretation that the law protects doctors who provide abortions in emergency circumstances.

We know firsthand how complications from pregnancy can lead very quickly to a medical crisis, requiring immediate care and treatment, the letter states.

These patients complications can range from a miscarriage to heavy bleeding, from placental abruption to a stroke from severe preeclampsia  and doctors and health professionals in emergency departments must be allowed to use the full range of medical options to save these patients lives, including abortion, the doctors wrote.

The Committee to Protect Health Care writes on its website that through earned and paid media, grassroots advocacy campaigns, and other tools, we help pass policies that expand health care and abortion access, elect health care champions, and hold anti-health care politicians accountable.

A letter is not the official way for experts or interested parties to weigh in with the justices when they are considering a case.

Typically, individuals or organizations file an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief before oral arguments. The publication of the letter, however, comes a full month after that took place in this case and likely after the majority has begun writing the ruling.

The Committee to Protect Health Care confirmed Friday the group didnt file an amicus brief.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case, Idaho v. United States, on April 24. The justices are expected to release their ruling before the Fourth of July break.

Biden administration interpretation

The case centers around whether a federal law, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act or EMTALA, protects doctors and other healthcare professionals who provide abortions as stabilizing treatment during a medical emergency, even when those doctors actions might go against state bans or restrictions.

The case in front of the Supreme Court, in part, stems from the Biden administrations interpretation of the 1986 law.

That law requires emergency departments to either provide stabilizing care or transfer a patient with an emergency medical condition, regardless of their insurance status.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra announced in July 2022 that under EMTALA no matter where you live, women have the right to emergency care  including abortion care.

Today, in no uncertain terms, we are reinforcing that we expect providers to continue offering these services, and that federal law preempts state abortion bans when needed for emergency care, Becerra wrote in a statement. Protecting both patients and providers is a top priority, particularly in this moment.

The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide, constitutional right to an abortion that was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision.

The post Doctors urge U.S. Supreme Court to include abortion as stabilizing care under federal law appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
State Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, asked university system leaders to give an update on how they have been implementing the state's DEI ban. Legislators have warned they may pursue new laws to enforce the ban during next year's lawmaking session. Credit: Eddie Gaspar/The Texas Tribune

In the most comprehensive picture yet of how Texas DEI ban has changed campuses across the state, recent communications with lawmakers reveal the range of steps university leaders have taken to comply with the law and keep billions in state funding.

University system leaders described their efforts in written responses to Sen. Brandon Creighton, the author of the DEI ban, after the Conroe Republican warned them they could lose their funding or face legal consequences if they werent following the law, which went into effect in January.

In documents obtained by The Texas Tribune and in public testimony before senators, leaders from all of Texas seven university systems said they have closed multicultural offices, fired or reassigned DEI staff and stopped requiring diversity statements, or letters in which job candidates in academia share their previous efforts to promote diverse learning spaces and help students of all backgrounds succeed.

Reference

Read Texas university systems responses to questions about their compliance with the states DEI ban

(5.2 MB)

Some described how theyve changed their operations to comply with the law and continue supporting some students. Texas Womans University leaders said they opened a center for first-generation students after closing their DEI office. More than 50% of incoming students in the system are the first in their families to attend college.

A few system leaders said they did not need to make any major changes because they never had big DEI programs on their campuses. At a Texas Senate higher education subcommittee meeting this month, Texas State University System Chancellor Brian McCall said most of his schools had no DEI offices to begin with.

The documents also show the guidance administrators are giving staff on how to respond to diversity-related questions in federal grant applications without running afoul of the DEI ban.

Texas colleges get billions of dollars in federal grant money, which they depend on to pay for research. Securing these funds helps schools recruit high-quality faculty and build on their reputation; for some, theyre critical in their quest to elevate their status as research institutions.

Many federal grants require applicants to describe their efforts to make their fields more diverse or explain how their research benefits underserved communities.

In FAQs to support staff and faculty, University of Houston administrators offered some talking points to help them keep those grants in a post-DEI reality. Officials recommended emphasizing the schools compliance with non-discrimination laws and their efforts to support low-income and first-generation college students.

Despite those efforts, university leaders have said it's been difficult to strike a balance between the DEI bans requirements and grant funders expectations.

Weve struggled with how to handle grants, Daniel H. Sharphorn, the vice chancellor and general counsel of the University of Texas System, told lawmakers this month. I don't know that we've learned enough to know what the impact is going to be.

[Under scrutiny from legislators, Texas university leaders attest to how theyre complying with the states DEI ban]

Texas Womans University provided similar talking points to address staff concerns about how the DEI ban might affect universities accreditation, a status that indicates schools offer quality education programs and allows their students to access federal financial aid. To get their accreditation recertified, which is required every 10 years, all public universities have to prove they are meeting an accrediting agencys standards, which can include DEI requirements.

The primary agency for institutional accreditation in Texas, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, is one of the few accreditors that does not have a DEI-related standard, which means Texas colleges do not risk losing accreditation with that agency for complying with the DEI ban, said Rosalind Fuse-Hall, the accreditors director of legal and governmental affairs.

But Texas higher education institutions might still run into snags with other agencies that provide accreditation for specific college programs and do ask about schools DEI efforts, Fuse-Hall said.

In addition, some university systems explained how theyve changed their training policies, revealing theyre taking different approaches to comply with the new law.

The University of North Texas System eliminated any voluntary DEI training it used to offer through LinkedIn. The system said in its written response to senators that it developed a program to scan voluntary training offerings for DEI-related keywords and automatically remove any that come up as a match.

Texas Womans University, meanwhile, continues to allow faculty to access professional development libraries that include DEI training modules, so long as participation in those trainings is truly voluntary, the schools response said.

Lawmakers have yet to indicate whether they're content with the universities' responses but have previously said they're ready to pass more bills to bolster enforcement if they feel schools need to do more to comply with the ban.

The Texas Tribune partners with Open Campus on higher education coverage.

Disclosure: Texas State University System, University of Texas System, University of Houston and University of North Texas have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

Weve got big things in store for you at The Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 57 in downtown Austin. Join us for three days of big, bold conversations about politics, public policy and the days news.

Correction, May 24, 2024 at 11:17 a.m. : An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that Texas State University System Chancellor Brian McCall said during a hearing his schools didn't have DEI offices before the state's DEI ban went into effect. He said the universities didn't have DEI offices for most of his tenure at the helm of the system.
Kaytlin Bailey (second from right) with members of SIN (Sex Industry Network) in Adelaide, Australia. | photo courtesy of Old Pros

What does decriminalized sex work look like in practice? People in Australia (specifically New South Wales) and New Zealand know the answer, because they decriminalized sex work decades ago.

I recently spent six weeks touring my one-woman show, Whore's Eye View, in Australia and New Zealand, where I met sex workers, clients, and brothel owners who negotiate sexual services openly without fear of arrest. After my shows, people from the sex industryboth workers and clientsstayed to tell me their stories. I spoke with people who did sex work to start their own businesses, pursue a passion project, or put themselves through school.

Here's the picture that emerged: Decriminalization has reduced violence and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and it has made it easier for sex workers to hold people accountable who try to hurt them.

AUSTRALIA

Australia is divided into five states, each with its own sex laws. I performed in Adelaide, South Australia, where buying and selling sexual services is still criminalized, and in Newcastle, New South Wales (NSW), which decriminalized sex work in 1995. I got the lay of the land from the Sex Industry Network (SIN), an Adelaide-based group of sex workers that has been distributing safer sex tools, information, and resources since the 1980s.

NSW decriminalized street-based sex work in 1979. But in the early 1980s, police started charging street-based workers with "offensive behavior" and violently raiding brothels or "disorderly houses." In 1983, the government recriminalized soliciting on a public street, creating additional penalties for those who were near a hospital, school, or church.

"It was worse than the mafia. We paid the cops to not arrest us. We had to decide whose turn it was to give them a freebie," says Anna Morrigan, a brothel owner. "Leading up to an election or something, they would do these terrible raids anyway. Parading women out in the street in their underwear. Just cruel, humiliating stuff like that."

It would take decades of activism before the Disorderly Houses Amendment Act of 1995 decriminalized brothels. Today, sex work in NSW is governed not through criminal codes but through civil and public health codes.

What sort of activism? There was Sallie-Anne Huckstep's brave 1981 interview on 60 Minutes Australia, which exposed how cops extorted sex workers. (This led to the Royal Wood Commission, which concluded that the police are "inappropriate regulators of the sex industry.") In 1985, Debbie Homburg called for a boycott of selling sexual services to politicians until sex work was fully decriminalized. Julia Bates, the first sex industry liaison officer for the South Sydney Council, received a title from the queen for her efforts to decriminalize sex work. Stormy Summers, an Adelaide brothel owner and aspiring politician, spent years pushing for decriminalization in South Australia. (She passed away in March.)

And in 1983, in the midst of the AIDS pandemic, the Australian Prostitutes Collective formed in Sydney. (The group later became the Sex Workers Outreach Project and the Scarlet Alliance.) These activists focused on the public health implications of criminalization, pointing out that because police were using condoms as evidence to convict sex workers, people were forced to forgo safer sex practices to avoid arrest.

After a show in Adelaide, one woman told me that she put herself through veterinary school by doing sex work and has no regrets. A couple waited in line to tell me that sex workers had helped sustain their 35-year marriage. In Newcastle, a woman brought her mother to the show to help her understand her line of work.

Morrigan, the brothel owner, says things are much better under full legalization. "No one comes in here and shakes me down for protection money with a gun." An extensive 2017 study by researchers at the University of Queensland, the University of New South Wales, and Curtin University confirmed that decriminalization in NSW "allows a highly visible focus on workplace health and safety in brothels and massage parlours."

Both of Morrigan's brothels are well-outfitted with opulent bedrooms, showers, and hot tubs. She has an impressive collection of BDSM dungeon equipment and regularly rents out space for private kink events. After decades in the business, she says, "People do this work for all kinds of reasons. I like to give people a chance. Some people stay for a day, some people stay for years."

Health and safety codes, information about consent and STIs, and common-sense house rules are clearly posted everywhere in Morrigan's brothels. Codes of conduct and the consequences for violating them are spelled out for all to see. Morrigan, like many of the sex workers and managers I spoke with, insisted that the overwhelming majority of clients are respectful.

"We almost never have a problemand when we do, we can call the police," explains Morrigan. In contrast, here in the United States, sex workers won't report possible serial killers to local authorities for fear of being arrested, being evicted, or having their children taken away.

NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand decriminalized sex work in 2003, with the Prostitution Reform Act (PRA). As in Australia, New Zealand's movement for decriminalization started with sex workers coming together to advocate for themselves.

In 1987, a group of sex workers founded the New Zealand Prostitute Collective (NZPC), which is still active today. I toured NZPC offices in Wellington and Auckland and met with sex workers, physicians, counselors, and community outreach workers. I heard directly about what life was like before the PRA. I learned about historical figures like Carmen Rupe and Georgina Beyer, met with such activist luminaries as Dame Catherine Healy and Annah Pickering, and spoke with brothel workers, independent sex workers, and street-based workers of all genders.

Early on, NZPC found that because police were using condoms as evidence, sex workers weren't using them. In 1991, NZPCwhich was receiving funds from the Ministry of Health to combat HIV/AIDSthreatened to stop contracting with the government unless more was done to stop the raids and arrests against sex workers. Eventually, officials recognized that arresting people for using government-provided condoms was self-defeating.

In 2000, partly inspired by the success in New South Wales, NZPC organized a coalition of feminists, police officers, and religious and community leaders to call for the full decriminalization of sex work. The PRA passed on June 25, 2003, after an impassioned speech from Beyer, the first person to be elected to parliament who was out about her former work as a sex worker.*

The PRA decriminalized all forms of sex work, including street-based solicitation. Sex workers aren't required to register, but if more than four work together then someone has to get an operators' certificate for operating a brothel.* Any person who manages a sex worker must also get an operator's certificate.

A fine for engaging in unprotected sex was set at $2,000. Violations of consent, including removing a condom without a sex worker's knowledge, are a crime.

"Decriminalizing meant that sex work was acknowledged as service work," says Healy.* "Sex workers in New Zealand were able to operate under the same employment and legal rights accorded to any other occupational group."

The results were stunning. In 2008, separate studies by the Prostitution Law Review Committee and the Christchurch School of Medicine found that by removing their illegal status, the PRA made it far easier for sex workers to refuse particular clients and practices. Decriminalization reduced new HIV infections so successfully that Queen Elizabeth II made Catherine Healy a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2018, specifically for services to the rights of sex workers.

The sex workers I met in New Zealand know how lucky they are to live in a country where they can't be arrested for doing their jobs. After a show in Nelson, I met a group of women who relied on sex work while getting their PhDs in sexual health, sociology, and economics. In Dunedin, I met a young woman who worked at a brothel to supplement her income from nonprofit theaters. One trans woman who remembers life before 2003 said: "I don't like the cops. I don't think I would ever call the cops. But I'm not afraid of the cops. Not anymore." A brothel manager in Wellington told me that she's only had to ask a client to leave the premises three times in more than five years of managing the space.

Some of the biggest challenges facing sex workers in New Zealand and Australia stem from policies in America. When the U.S. president signed the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) in 2018, sex workers on the other side of the worldwho weren't doing anything illegallost access to many websites, message boards, and banking services.

But they can work legally nowand if they're assaulted, they can do something about it. There are good reasons why decriminalization has been endorsed by Amnesty International, the World Health Organization, the American Civil Liberties Union, Human Rights Watch, and Freedom Network, America's largest provider of services to victims of sex trafficking. Those reasons are on display in New Zealand and Australia today.

*CORRECTION: This article has been updated to clarify that Georgina Beyer was out about her previous career as a sex worker, to accurately define the requirements of the Prostitution Reform Act, and to correct a quote.

The post What Does Decriminalized Sex Work Actually Look Like? appeared first on Reason.com.
'Doing something right by Tess': Faith Mata continues to honor sister through her work

Struggling to find her place in the world, Faith Mata, a recent college graduate, was navigating the stresses of finding a job and was in a fight to keep her sister's memory alive.

Mata's sister, Tess, was a 10-year-old fourth grader who was gunned down at Uvalde's Robb Elementary School two years ago, in what became the state's deadliest school mass shooting. The 18-year-old gunman killed 19 children and two adults on May 24, 2022.

I honestly couldnt tell you how Im doing, Mata said. No one told me that once you graduate college, its that hard sometimes. Being rejected from job positions  crying  trying to figure out if what I'm really doing in life is what I should be doing, and then also feeling like you're letting your sister down."

Mata, who graduated in May 2023 from Texas State University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and a minor in criminal justice, is dedicating herself to advocating for safer gun laws and sharing Tess story through her work.

Mata recently moved to Austin and is adjusting to a new place, but she's still coping with her sister's absence as she navigates adult life.

Faith Mata, sister of Robb Elementary School mass shooting victim Tess Mata, vows to keep her little sister's memory alive and continue advocating in her memory. I feel like I was doing something right by Tess, by big sisters, by the kids who were in the classroom, the teachers," she says.

Mata said she held a congressional internship with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., which helped her network before landing a job in Austin.

I worked with (U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, D-Austin), and I did get to make a lot of network connections and share Tess story, Mata said. Coming back home, I was able to use those network connections and keep them with me to share things I care about, like gun violence prevention.

Mata is now working as an assistant to the section director for oversight and accountability at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Its a door opening for me, Mata said. Of course, we dream of getting right into that main position, but I figured out thats not how the real world works after graduating from college. So, after applying and lots of tears, I finally got the position.

While Mata said she believes the position will get her to where she needs to be in the future, Mata said she sometimes feels guilty about how much time she spends being an everyday adult versus how much time she spends focusing on Tess.

My parents have taken on advocating a lot more, and sometimes I hate that I dont get to do it as often as I would want to, Mata said. I feel like I was doing something right by Tess, by big sisters, by the kids who were in the classroom, the teachers. Im just trying to find a way to get to that point in my life where what Im doing with my future work will matter, and it will matter to Tess as well.

The Mata family continues to co-run the Lives Robbed nonprofit, a group dedicated to reducing gun violence; participate in family-led talks and panel discussions about gun violence prevention; and attend government meetings to advocate for gun restrictions.

Some people in Uvalde are unhappy about the persistence of the family's fight for the cause and want them to get over their grief, Mata said.

I'm assuming crosses and balloons and flowers are bothersome, but they shouldnt have an opinion because they didnt lose anyone, Mata said.

The Uvalde Town Square memorials are reminders of the tragedy for everyone, but even more so for the families who suffered the loss. The memorials act as ways for the families to keep their loved ones memories alive as time passes.

If its a reminder to you every day of May 24, could you imagine how much of a reminder it is to me, my parents, all the other families? Mata said.

Every time we walk into our homes, there's someone missing at our dining room table. We pass by the bedroom they used to sleep in. We take care of their pets for them now.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Faith Mata continues to honor Uvalde shooting victim through her work
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Ticketmaster and its parent company this week.

It accuses the company of having an illegal monopoly over concerts and live events.

The Justice Department says this legal challenge could potentially lead to cheaper concert tickets.

They argue Ticketmasters practices hurt competition and drive up prices for fans.

It is time to break up Live Nation Ticketmaster, said Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said Thursday the DOJ and 29 states plus Washington, D.C., are suing Ticketmaster and its parent company Live Nation alleging they have an illegal monopoly over live events.

It controls at least 80% of primary ticketing at major concert venues, said Garland.

The lawsuit says the company has its hand in nearly every part of the industry and blocks venues from using multiple ticket sellers.

The result is that fans pay more in fees, artists have fewer opportunities to play concerts, smaller promoters get squeezed out, and venues have fewer real choices for ticketing services, said Garland.

A post on Live Nations website calls the allegations baseless and says they ignore the real factors behind higher ticket prices.

The company said in a statement quote: The DOJs lawsuit wont solve the issues fans care about relating to ticket prices, service fees, and access to in-demand shows

According to the DOJ, Ticketmaster owns or controls more than 265 of North Americas concert venues and dozens of amphitheaters.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
VISALIA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A Visalia man has been indicted after allegedly illegally selling several firearms to an undercover agent, the United States Department of Justice said on Thursday.

According to court documents, 20-year-old Shawn Saesee of Visalia sold an undercover agent eight firearms, including five machine guns on four separate occasions. Saesee sold firearms despite being told by the undercover agent he could not legally possess firearms.

The DOJ says a federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment on Thursday against Saesee, charging him with unlawful transfer of firearms in violation of the National Firearms Act and dealing and manufacturing firearms without a license.

If convicted, the DOJ says Saesee faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison along with a $250,000 fine.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
DOL says it is hiring staff to deal with appeals backlog that has left many without benefits

The Georgia Department of Labor is hiring new staff to deal with its appeals backlog but Georgians stuck in that backlog say it is not happening fast enough to help them.

Now that money that I was expecting to be able to help put food on the table is not there. And Im not getting any answers about when can my statement, my appeals be heard, Peachtree Corners resident Serena Johnson said.

Johnson told Channel 2 consumer investigator Justin Gray that she has been waiting on her unemployment benefits for three months now but has been told the backlog for appeals at the Department of Labor could stretch more than a year.

I understand that youre backlogged, but I still need to eat, Johnson said.

When Johnson was laid off from her job back in February, she provided DOL the documentation of her 6-week severance package, but the Georgia Department of Labor mistakenly started her weekly unemployment payments immediately.

Three weeks later, they denied her entire claim because of the mistake.

RELATED NEWS:

This is no fault or error of my own, she said.

But Johnson was told to get the benefits she is owed, she would have to file an appeal.

I mean, Im not trying to abuse the system, but the system feels like its abusing me, Johnson said.

Georgia Commissioner of Labor Bruce Thompson acknowledges that he inherited an appeals backlog that dates back to the pandemic.

Telling us in a statement:

We recently secured mission-critical funding during this past legislative session to hire additional staff and support modernizations to Georgias outdated unemployment insurance system. Securing the necessary funding was the first step in rebuilding a robust appeals process that was decimated during the pandemic; now it takes time to train the officers. Typical appeals training can take up to 9 months to become effective and competent.

RELATED NEWS:




BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 24. The United States is beginning to review bilateral relations with Georgia due to the law on foreign influence adopted in Tbilisi, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, Trend reports.

The Secretary of State also noted that when considering relations between the two countries, the United States will take into account Georgia's actions when making decisions.

Blinken also said that the US will apply a visa restriction policy towards Georgia. According to him, this restriction will apply to individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia, as well as their family members.
MADISON  Former President Donald Trump on Friday endorsed state Rep. Janel Brandtjen, R-Menomonee Falls, as she faces a primary contest against state Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown.

It's the second time Trump has backed Brandtjen in a matchup against Knodl, who defeated her last year in the Republican primary for the state's 8th Senate District.

The former president has thrown his support behind two other Wisconsin candidates this year: U.S. Senate candidate Eric Hovde and 8th Congressional District candidate Tony Wied.

Brandtjen has drawn national attention as one of the Wisconsin Legislature's most prominent purveyors of conspiracies about the 2020 election, at one point calling for it to be overturned because "tyranny is at Wisconsin's door."

Trump has taken notice.

Brandtjen is a "proven fighter for Wisconsin," Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.

"She has consistently defended constitutional freedoms and fought for free and transparent elections in Wisconsin. Janel has proven her integrity and dogged determination to keep Wisconsin free," Trump wrote. "Wisconsin needs leaders who will empower constituents to hold their elected officials accountable. No one does that better than Janel Brandtjen. She has my Complete and Total Endorsement. Janel will NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"

Rep. Janel Brandtjen speaks as former President Donald Trump held a campaign rally for Republican candidate for governor Tim Michels at the Waukesha County Fairgrounds in Waukesha on Friday, Aug. 5, 2022.

More: In interview, Trump doesn't commit to accepting Wisconsin election results if he loses

Brandtjen and a number of other GOP officials have been under fire in recent months after the state Ethics Commission alleged Trump's Save America political action committee, Brandtjen, county Republican Party officials and the campaign committee of Adam Steen, who ran against Assembly Speaker Robin Vos in 2022, conspired to avoid state fundraising limits for Steen's bid to replace Vos.

The alleged scheme to flood donations to Steen's campaign materialized as Trump and Brandtjen pressured Vos to take illegal and impractical steps to decertify the 2020 election when President Joe Biden defeated Trump by about 20,000 votes.

Waukesha County District Attorney Susan Opper said last month she would not file felony charges recommended by the bipartisan Ethics Commission, but noted her decision did not "clear" the lawmaker. Several others have also declined to pursue criminal charges, and the question remains under review in Washington County.

Knodl serves as chairman of the Senate committee that oversees elections.

State Sen. Dan Knodl, right, (R-Germantown) talks with a woman at Latitude Cafe Roasting Co. Thursday, February 29, 2024 in Germantown, Wisconsin. Knodl said he plans to run for the Assembly District currently held by Republican state Rep. Janel Brandtjen in the Menomonee Falls area.

Both Knodl and Brandtjen were among the 15 Wisconsin legislators who joined 76 other lawmakers across the country in signing a Jan. 5, 2021, letter to ask then-Vice President Mike Pence to put off certifying the 2020 presidential results a day before a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol to try to prevent Biden from becoming president.

Brandtjen previously led the Assembly's election committee, but her Republican colleagues booted her from their caucus in 2022, citing a loss of trust.

Knodl, who was elected to the Senate in a special election and previously served in the Assembly, announced earlier this year that he would not seek reelection to the Senate seat after being drawn into a district with Sen. Duey Stroebel, R-Saukville, under new legislative maps.

Brandtjen and Knodl will face off in the Aug. 13 primary election.

Jessie Opoien can be reached at jessie.opoien@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Donald Trump endorses Janel Brandtjen in Wisconsin Assembly primary
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The Scene

THE BRONX, NY  Donald Trump made a historic visit to the Bronx, the first by a GOP presidential candidate in four decades, and hammered Biden on higher grocery prices, while promising to cut taxes and reduce energy prices in one of the most impoverished New York City neighborhoods.

On day one were going to throw out Bidenomics and were going to replace it with MAGAnomics like your hats, Trump said to a crowd of several thousand in Crotona Park.

But the most notable comments were likely on immigration, with Trump making inflammatory, unsubstantiated claims that migrants seeking asylum at the border were plotting harm against Americans.

Almost everyone is a male and they look like fighting age. I think theyre building an army, he said. They want to get us from within.

Trump won just under 16% of the vote in the Bronx in his last election. The rally comes as Republicans are growing increasingly confident in their ability to make inroads with Black and Hispanic voters this cycle, including by tacking right on immigration and law enforcement, two issues once seen as a political vulnerability for the GOP with nonwhite voters.

Title icon

The View From Voters

Trump supporters from Far Rockaway, Rockland County, Long Island, and beyond descended on the South Bronx to witness Trump speak  the first Republican presidential candidate to visit the area since Ronald Reagan. Even the spackling of actual Bronx natives were thrilled he made the effort.

This is history, and I get goosebumps because its like, wow, Elizabeth Robles, 42, told Semafor. Hes a New Yorker, so he already knows what it is to be from New York. And this is an honor having him here in the Bronx. Like its super dope.

Christina Sholomon, 36, lives in Stanford, Connecticut but manages a gentlemans club in Queens. She said Biden didnt do anything for us.

My boss, hes a huge Trump supporter as well, Sholomon added, and Im like please let me leave early today, and hes like, all right, only because its for Trump.

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The View From Ruben Diaz Sr.

Former New York City Council member Ruben Diaz, a longtime Bronx fixture, arrived at the rally wearing a cowboy hat with an entourage of a dozen people. He led the crowd in chants of Donald Trump is welcome here.

Diaz, who later apologized to Trump onstage as a Hispanic for Colombia-born Judge Juan Merchan overseeing his Manhattan trial, isnt exactly a typical Democrat. But he made the case to Semafor that Trump had a real opportunity to tap into local unease with recently arrived migrants who have strained the citys services.

We are Hispanic but we dont want these people to come in like this, Diaz said. Maybe they thought that we were Hispanic and were going to love that. Theyre taking away the communitys resources, the senior citizen resources, our childrens resources.

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The View From Democrats

There were multiple events counterprogramming the rally, most notably one organized by local Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo that included several local unions. Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., who represents the South Bronx, held a press conference Thursday morning to push back against the visit.

Donald Trumps rally may be IN the South Bronx but it is not OF the South Bronx, Torres posted on X later along with footage of Trump fans. Bluntly put, the Trump transplants are much whiter than the locals of the South Bronx, which is almost entirely Latino and Black.

The Biden campaign called Trump a lifelong racist and posted an ad recapping Trumps attacks on the Central Park Five, a group of teens who were wrongly jailed for rape and later exonerated, and family legal battles over housing discrimination laws.

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Kadias view

Trump obviously isnt going to win New York, despite suggesting otherwise during the rally, but he could make headway with a community thats been exhausted by crime and cost-of-living issues in recent cycles. Democrats arent as quick to dismiss his outreach as they might have been in prior years after suffering through a disastrous midterms in which Republicans flipped four Congressional seats in the state and landed a city council seat in the same borough Trump visited Thursday. And with Democrats increasingly worried about losing Black and Latino support nationally this cycle, what happens in New York might not stay in New York.

Semafor Logo
Donald Trump lauded his ability to dress himself at a rally in the Bronx on Thursday. (Watch the video below.)

Some of the greatest days of my business career were the toughest times, but I enjoyed waking up every single morning and go to battle, he said. A lot of people say to me today  the toughest business people, people that you know about  Could I ask you a question? How do you do it? I say, Do what? How do you get up in the morning and put your pants on? Why do you put the pants on? Ill explain it to you someday. How do you do it? How do you get up? How do you do it?

Trump: A lot of people ask me how do you put your pants on? pic.twitter.com/a8RUJwdewU  Acyn (@Acyn) May 23, 2024

Trump has had good reason for putting clothes on of late  hes had to appear in court for his hush money trial that has now advanced to the closing arguments.

Trump, the presumptive GOP nominee and four-time-indicted ex-White House occupant, has boasted of his pants courage before to presumably play up his determination in the face of adversity.

Besides, who wants to vote for a guy whos all mouth and no trousers, as they say across the pond.

People on social media hit Trump below the belt for his latest claim:

Trump: A lot of people ask me how do you put your pants on? pic.twitter.com/a8RUJwdewU  Acyn (@Acyn) May 23, 2024

In fairness, its a valid question.  Katie Phang (@KatiePhang) May 24, 2024

Step one  call the diaper valet.  Jo (@JoJoFromJerz) May 24, 2024

Pretty sure his morning nurse takes care of that pic.twitter.com/dHq1B3qrho  (((Tara Dublin))), Rock Star Author  (@taradublinrocks) May 24, 2024

Of all of the things I havent wondered about Trump, I havent wondered this the most  Jamie (@jrtoastyman) May 23, 2024

A hooker or porn star usually helps him  Renegade Cowboy  (@Rene_gadeCowboy) May 23, 2024

That's his daily achievement, putting his pants on  paul duffy (@paulduffy68) May 23, 2024

He doesnt. The Emperor has no clothes.  Susan    (@SusanInDelaware) May 23, 2024

Related...
Dothan Trooper honored for saving woman from sinking car in 2023

DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN)  An Alabama State Trooper in Dothan was honored by state officials for saving a woman who nearly drowned in a sinking car last year.

During the Houston County Commission meeting Thursday morning, Senior Trooper Spencer Adkinson was presented the 2024 Alabama Legislative Meritorious Service Award for heroic lifesaving actions in the line of duty.

This award is not lightly given, said State Representative Jeff Sorrells. This is the highest commendation that the state recognizes.

Sen. Trooper Adkinson was given this award for her actions in May 2023, when she jumped into a Houston County creek to save a woman from a sinking car.

Sen. Trooper Adkinson and Houston County Deputy Dustin Oswalt were on the scene of a vehicle crash on Highway 84 when another vehicle drove off the road, sped down an embankment, and crashed into Bear Creek nearby.

After realizing what happened, she and Oswalt immediately leaped into action, with Sen. Troopers Adkinson breaking the rear window of the quickly submerging car to communicate with the woman, who had a broken knee and could not escape by herself.

Photo of Deputy Dustin Oswald and Trooper Spencer Adkinson next to the crashed car. (Photo left-Courtesy of RickeyStokesNews, Photo right- Courtesy of Chris Judah)

Trooper Adkinson on the scene- Courtesy of RickeyStokesNews

Courtesy of RickeyStokesNews

Left to Right: Deputy Dustin Oswald and Trooper Spencer Adkinson on the scene- Courtesy of RickeyStokesNews

Courtesy of RickeyStokesNews

Courtesy of RickeyStokesNews

The Dothan-based trooper climbed into the vehicle to pull the woman out, and Oswalt assisted in getting her safely on the creek bank.

Sen. Trooper Adkinson was not the only state trooper to receive this honor during the commission meeting.

READ MORE HERE: Dothan Trooper recognized for saving critically injured 4-year-old in 2023 crash

Senior Trooper Christopher Carlton also received the Meritorious Service Award. He was commended for his efforts in February when he responded to a crash on Highway 84 and found a trapped driver and injured child.

Courtesy of Senior Trooper Kendra McKinney

Sen. Troopers Adkinson and Carlton were recognized for their heroic work in November 2023 with the Lifesaving Award from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN)  An Alabama State Trooper from Dothan was honored for his heroic lifesaving actions in the line of duty during a 2023 crash.

During the Houston County Commission meeting Thursday morning, Senior Trooper Christopher Carlton was presented with the 2024 Alabama Legislative Meritorious Service Award.

This is a great honor, said State Representative Jeff Sorrells.

This award recognized Sen. Trooper Carltons actions during a near-fatal crash in February 2023.

Sen. Trooper Carlton responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 84 and found a car had struck a tree, with the driver trapped and a 4-year-old child with a severe head injury.

Since more than one patient was on the scene, Sen. Trooper Carlton was advised to call a second ambulance but took matters into his own hands.

Sen. Trooper Carlton and a nurse who had stopped to help transported the child in his patrol vehicle to a local hospital. The 4-year-old was stabilized upon arrival.

Carlton was not the only state trooper to receive this honor during the commission meeting.

READ MORE HERE: Dothan Trooper honored for saving woman from sinking car in 2023

Senior Trooper Spencer Adkinson was given the Meritorious Service Award for her actions in May 2023, when she jumped into a Houston County creek to save a woman from a sinking car.

Courtesy of Senior Trooper Kendra McKinney

The two troopers were previously recognized for their heroic work in November 2023 with the Lifesaving Award from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
From the Dispatch Politics on The Dispatch

Happy Friday! Sometimes when we report on Congress, we feel like the dog that CNN reporter Haley Talbot brought to Capitol Hill Thursday. Dont worry, boy, we also have to get dragged along by our superiors from time to time.

We will have no newsletter on Monday due to Memorial Day. We remember all the brave people who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may continue to live in freedom. See you all next Wednesday!

Up to Speed

Nikki Haley announced Wednesday that she will vote for former President Donald Trump over President Joe Biden this fall. As a voter, I put my priorities on a president whos gonna have the backs of our allies and hold our enemies to account, who would secure the borderno more excusesa president who would support capitalism and freedom, a president who understands we need less debt, not more debt, she said at an event for the Hudson Institute, where she has recently taken a position. Trump has not been perfect on these policies. Ive made that clear many many times. But Biden has been a catastrophe, so I will be voting for Trump. Haley added that Trump should reach out to the people who voted for her to win their votes.

But the Biden campaign has not stopped trying to court those supporters. Just hours after Haley announced that she would vote for Trump, the campaign held a Zoom call with supporters of the former U.N. ambassador, the Daily Beast reported Thursday. Since the day she suspended her presidential campaign, the Biden campaign has courted Haley voters as a potential bloc for the presidentas Haley has continued to garner a significant percentage of the vote in primaries even after she dropped out. However, Bidens recent decision to withhold certain weapons from Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza has been a deterrent to Haley voters who are considering casting ballots for him.

Meanwhile, Trump is attempting to make the most of his hush money trial that has mostly kept him in New York, holding a rally Thursday in the Bronx. If you want to help, you must vote. I believe that we can win New York State, he told the crowd. We have levels of support that nobodys seen before.  Dont assume it doesnt matter just because you live in a blue city. You live in a blue city, but its going red very, very quickly. Trump has tried to court black and Hispanic voters throughout the campaign.

In Congress, Sen. Rick Scott of Florida jumped into the race to succeed Mitch McConnell as the Republican leader in the Senate. I believe that our voters want us to use this leadership election to make a choice to upend the status quo in Washington, he wrote in a letter to colleagues that the Wall Street Journal first reported Wednesday. If you also believe this to be true and want a leader dedicated to that principle, I would be honored to have the opportunity to earn your support. Scott, who challenged McConnell for the top Senate Republican position in 2022, joins Sens. John Thune of South Dakota and John Cornyn of Texas in the 2025 race.

The Senate on Thursday voted to block the cross-partisan border deal that Republican Sen. James Lankford authored along with independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema and Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy. Lankford and Sinema voted not to advance the bill after Majority Leader Chuck Schumer scheduled a vote on it, with Sinema accusing Schumer of using the bill as a political punching bag. The bill, which was especially contentious earlier this year as the parties attempted to tie it to Ukraine aid, comes as Republicans have tried to capitalize on a flood of illegal border crossings under the Biden administration.

On our site, John McCormack has reported on how school-choice advocates, working with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, successfully backed primary challengers to Republicans who joined with Democrats last year to kill a school savings account provision opposed by the states educational establishment. Nearly a dozen incumbent Republicans were already either forced into retirement or defeated in the March 5 primary, while four more will learn their fate this coming Tuesday in runoff elections that will decide the future of school choice in Texas, John writes. Read more about it here.

Alito Flag Fallout in Congress

Associate Justice Elena Kagan (left, rear) and Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh (center, rear), Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (center, front) and Associate Justice Samuel Alito pose for an Supreme Court official group photo on November 30, 2018. (Photo by MANDEL NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)

One week after the New York Times reported that an upside-down American flag flew outside the home of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito days before the January 2021 inauguration of Joe Biden, congressional Democrats are keeping up a steady drumbeat calling for the justice to recuse himself from cases involving Donald Trumpat the very least those involving January 6 and potentially many more.

The more he recuses himself on just about anything to do with MAGA, Trump, DACAany of these thingsI would be happy, Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono told The Dispatch Thursday. Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine similarly said Alito must recuse more broadly on cases involving Trump. Do Democrats think Alito needs to recuse himself in any case involving a potential second Trump administration? Im going to avoid speculation on that point. Needless to say, my hope is that you dont have a Trump presidency. But Ill comment if and when it happens, Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal told The Dispatch.

The case for recusal rests on the view that the upside-down flag was a symbol expressing support for Trumps stolen election claims. Alito has defended himself by telling the Times that he had no involvement whatsoever in the flying of the flag and that it was briefly placed by Mrs. Alito in response to a neighbors use of objectionable and personally insulting language on yard signs. Alito elaborated in an interview with Shannon Bream of Fox News that his wife, Martha-Ann, had asked a neighbor to take down a F Trump sign, and the neighbor responded by posting another sign personally blaming Martha-Ann for the January 6 attacks and later used vulgar language toward her, including the c-word. Alitos wife then flew the flag upside down. The move is seen as controversial because the inverted flag was a symbol taken up by some Trump supporters at the time of the Capitol riot. But seven months earlier, the Associated Press had described the symbol as the universal signal of distress when it was deployed during the George Floyd protests. (For a more thorough discussion of the incident, listen to the Advisory Opinions podcast).

Alitos allies have argued that Democrats are applying a glaring double standard on the matter of recusal because Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg herselfnot her husbandspoke out against Trumps election in the middle of the 2016 presidential campaign, and congressional Democrats did not call for her recusal from any cases involving Trump.

In July 2016, Ginsburg told the New York Times: I cant imagine what this place would beI cant imagine what the country would bewith Donald Trump as our president.  For the country, it could be four years. For the court, it could beI dont even want to contemplate that. She said that if her late husband were around to see a Trump presidency, he would have said: Now its time for us to move to New Zealand. A few days later, Ginsburg doubled down in an interview with CNN, calling Trump a faker and saying: He has no consistency about him. He says whatever comes into his head at the moment. He really has an ego.  How has he gotten away with not turning over his tax returns? Ginsburg then apologized for her comments, but she never recused herself from cases involving Trump, including one about the disclosure of Trumps tax returns.

Why didnt Senate Democrats call for Ginsburgs recusal following her public comments opposing Trump during the 2016 campaign? Because I dont remember her doing that. I dont remember her doing that. And, like, who said that she did that? Kaine told The Dispatch. When The Dispatch pointed out those Ginsburg comments were made in on-the-record media interviews, Kaine replied: I dont know. I would have to see that to believe that to be true.

Asked the same question about why she didnt call for Ginsburg to recuse, Hirono replied: Why dont we deal with the issues that are before us now? Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island told The Dispatch: I dont know what cases she was ruling on at that point. They [Republicans] werent asking for [recusal].

Blumenthal, who like Whitehouse and Hirono sits on the Judiciary Committee, told The Dispatch: She probably should have recused herself as well.

But did Blumenthal call for recusal at the time? I dont remember whether I called for it at the time, Blumenthal replied. (There is no record of Blumenthal or any Senate Democrat calling for Ginsburg to recuse herself from cases involving Trump.)

Asked if congressional Democrats had applied one standard for Ginsburg and another for Alito, Blumenthal said: What Alito did waswhat he has doneI think theres a clear distinction. Repeatedly and continually, he has stated clearly and unequivocally his political support for Donald Trump, not just the flags, but the op-eds hes done, and other statements that hes made and speeches to the Federalist Society.

Multiple Senate Republicans have said it was bad for an upside-down flag to be flown outside the Alitos home, but they have been dismissive of new Democratic furor over a second New York Times report that a Revolutionary War-era Appeal to Heaven flag (also carried by some January 6 supporters) flew outside of the Alitos vacation home in New Jersey. GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham, for example, said to the Huffington Post earlier this week about the upside-down flag incident: Emotions are apparently high in that neighborhood but no, its not good judgment to do that. But on Thursday, Graham dismissed the new report about the Appeal to Heaven flag, telling The Dispatch, this thing goes back to George Washington. As for Democratic calls that Alito needs to recuse himself from cases involving Trump, Graham said: I will not support that.

GOP Tries a New Tack to Oust Persistent Pennsylvania Democrat

For the last two cycles, Republicans have failed to topple a resilient Democratic incumbent in an increasingly red swing House district in Pennsylvania. But after narrowly losing twice with the same MAGA-minded nomineeplagued by accusations of carpetbagging, to bootthe GOP has finally turned to a homegrown candidate making a broader appeal to swing voters.

Last month, Republicans nominated businessman Rob Bresnahan to take on six-term Rep. Matt Cartwright, a Democrat who represents Pennsylvanias 8th Congressional District, located in the states northeast corner and includes Joe Bidens hometown of Scranton. Republicans coalesced around Bresnahan rather quickly, with Speaker Mike Johnson endorsing him in early January. That set up Bresnahan to run unopposed in the April 24 primary.

Im born here. Im raised here. I created jobs here. I went to the University of Scranton, Bresnahan told Dispatch Politics in an interview last week. Virtually every single investment Ive ever made has been back into this community, whether its through real estate redevelopment and revitalization, or through a litany of various different nonprofits, including which is a board of directors for a cemetery. So I know ultimately Ill be buried in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Long before Bresnahan entered the race, Republicans had already identified Cartwights seat as a prime pick-up opportunity. Cartwright was first elected in 2012, winning by 21 points. Since then, Cartwrights margin of victory has shrunk in every election. He won in 2020 by fewer than 4 percentage points, the same year Donald Trump won the district by nearly 3 points. Cartwrights margin in 2022 was just 2 points, and the race was one of the many underwhelming performances for GOP House candidates across the country that year.

The partys nominee in both those races was Jim Bognet, a political consultant born in the district but who spent much of his professional life living and working in other states. In 2020, his Republican primary opponents accused him of being a carpetbagger, giving Democrats plenty of fodder to follow suit in the general election in 2020 and 2022.

Whats more, in the leadup to his second run against Cartwright, Bognet made several statements casting doubt on the results of the 2020 election. He claimed in January 2022 that non-verified, universal mail-in voting was the main tool used by Democrats to skew the election against President Trump, [failed House candidate] Sean [Parnell], and me in 2020. He also said in his 2022 campaigns launch video that on election night, I was up by over 10,000 votes, just like President Trump, but Gov. [Tom] Wolf changed the rules of the election in the middle of the election.

In his interview with Dispatch Politics, Bresnahan did not repudiate Bognets rhetoric about 2020 when asked, though he did steer away from the subject.

Listen, Joe Bidens our president. Thats who we have right now, and in November we have to replace him, Bresnahan said.

Avoiding the stop the steal issue is no accident. Christopher Borick, a professor and director of Pennsylvanias Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion, says Bresnahan has a general strategy to appear mainstream.

Hes also not exposed himself, I think, to claims that hes too far to the extreme of the Republican Party, Borick told Dispatch Politics. I noticed recently he supported Mike Johnson in his bid to hang on to the speakership. By taking that position, hes counter to many of the MAGA-aligned members of the House like Marjorie Taylor Greene.

After Greene threatened to trigger a vote on her motion earlier this month, Bresnahan denounced the gambit in an X post, saying the American people did not need another speaker fight that accomplished nothing and more uncertainty. He made similar comments in an interview.

The motion to vacate on Speaker [Kevin] McCarthy was the first day on our campaign trail, Bresnahan told Dispatch Politics. And, you know, the amount of people that came up to me  encouraging me, giving me words of affirmation, saying, This is why you need to go there, Rob. This is the dysfunction that were talking about, that we are all so sick and tired of seeing unfold.

To beat Cartwright, Bresnahan will need to compete not only with the incumbents experience but also his money. Cartwright raised over $1.3 million in the first quarter of 2024 compared to Bresnahans $728,000, which included $400,000 he loaned his campaign. Cartwright also closed that period with over $3.1 million on hand, while Bresnahan had about $834,000.

Notable and Quotable

Evan Gershkovich, the Reporter from The Wall Street Journal, who is being held by Russia, will be released almost immediately after the Election, but definitely before I assume Office. He will be HOME, SAFE, AND WITH HIS FAMILY. Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, will do that for me, but not for anyone else, and WE WILL BE PAYING NOTHING! Former President Donald Trump in a Truth Social post, May 23, 2024

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.
Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff led a Wednesday roundtable discussion in Manhattan at the New York Public Library, addressing the increasing threat of school book bans and their impact on students civil rights. The event included high school and college students and featured remarks from the Biden administrations book ban czar Matt Nosanchuk, who serves as deputy assistant secretary for strategic operations and outreach in the Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights.



Most of the books that have been targeted for bans were written by LGBTQ + authors, people of color, or were about topics related to these communities. Its just wrong on so many levels, Emhoff said. This is also a legal civil rights issue. Taking these books away, your civil rights are being impeded. It erodes our democracy.

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff condemns Republican book bans at New York City roundtable

Courtesy The White House

Related: Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff to tackle Republican book bans at Manhattan roundtable discussion (exclusive)

Emhoff emphasized the educational harm caused by book bans. It impedes your learning. Growing up having the freedom to read what you want to read made me a more well-rounded student and a more well-rounded professional. It undermines literacy if youre not able to read the full range of books and topics, and you should not be limited to different perspectives and points of view, he said, adding, You want to see the full range.

Emhoff also underscored the importance of diverse literature. Freedom to read is such an essential part of your education . Reading diverse authors and books actually improves reading scores, and it cultivates a more respectful and thoughtful learning environment. This actually objectively makes you better students, the second gentleman said.It allows students to see their own selves, their own identities reflected in the books they see at their own schools. And it reflects the diversity of our nation. This is who America is. It is a diverse nation. Our books and what we talk about need to reflect that, he said.

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff condemns Republican book bans at New York City roundtable

Liza Acevedo

Nosanchuk, who oversees the administrations efforts against book bans, shared alarming statistics from a recent American Library Association report. He noted that 4,240 titles were banned in schools and libraries last year, a 65 percent increase from the previous year. Its the highest number ever recorded by the ALA, with the majority of targeted books authored by or about members of the LGBTQ+ community and people of color. He said this figure contrasts sharply with the annual challenges from 2000-2020, which never exceeded 400.

We have a vital role to play when a schools actions violate students civil rights, Nosanchuk said. And we are firmly committed to fulfilling this role in response to complaints about book bans that we have received.

Emhoff concluded by noting the Biden-Harris administrations broader fight for freedoms. I see firsthand how the President and Vice President are so passionately against book banning and for freedoms. You see them fighting for freedoms. You see the Vice President fighting for reproductive freedoms, freedom to vote, freedom to be who you want to be, love who you want to love and read what you want to read. Its all connected, and they are fighting so hard against these ridiculous book bans, he said. Its unacceptable to do this.


More than three months after his arrest for allegedly assaulting a homeless man he claimed was drinking alcohol in public, Dover Councilman Sergio Rodriguez made his first court appearance to answer the charges on Thursday in Lincoln Park Municipal Court.

With the case transferred in the past week from Dover to Lincoln Park, Judge Andrew Wubbenhorst adjourned the matter until June 27 to give Prosecutor Kim Kassar time to review the case and obtain videos of the Feb. 7 incident in downtown Dover that generated headlines and heated controversy in the community.

Rodriguez, who was sworn into his first council term in January, quickly ignited controversy with a series of Instagram videos in which he narrated his downtown confrontations with men he accused of drinking alcohol or littering in public.

Dover Councilman Sergio Rodriguez appears in an Instagram video criticizing police for arresting him after a confrontation with homeless men allegedly drinking in public.

Police stepped in to investigate after a video post by Rodriguez on Feb. 7 showed an escalated confrontation with three men in which Rodriguez appeared to kick a clear bottle out of one man's hands. When they left the street bench they were sitting on, Rodriguez followed them into the street.

Two days later, the Ward 2 Democrat was arrested and charged with single counts of simple assault and harassment, both disorderly person offenses. If convicted, Rodriguez faces penalties of up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000.

"I just got my fingerprints taken, mugshot taken and I was handcuffed to a bench," Rodriguez, 29, posted on Instagram on Feb. 10. That post and other posts addressing the incident have since been removed from his Instagram account.

Following the arrest, Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney stated that Rodriguez "became engaged in a verbal confrontation with the males" and later "assaulted one of the males by kicking the male's hand causing injury."

"Rodriguez continued to pursue the males while video recording after they attempted to leave the area and forced the males to cross the roadway," Delaney wrote. "Rodriguez attempted to block the males' avenue of escape, which caused a dangerous situation in the roadway."

"Stay here," Rodriguez says to one man in the video. "I'm not playing anymore. You guys know you shouldn't be there. No more apologies. I've told you many times already."

'There's a lot going on'

Thursday in court, the prosecutor asked for an adjournment to track down witnesses and evidence, and meet with Rodriguez's new attorney, Joseph Scura, after picking up the case on short notice.

"There's a lot going on," Kassar told the judge. "We have some of the discovery. What I'm trying to get are some of the flash drives with some of the footage that may have been produced by police or taken by the defendant himself."

Kassar added he needs to track down the three alleged victims, "Who are listed as homeless."

"We're moving ahead but we do need an opportunity to vet all these issues," Kassar said.

Wubbenhorst said if the two sides cannot complete a plea agreement by the June 27 appearance, he will schedule a special session for trial.

Rodriquez did not speak during the hearing except to reply "yes" when the judge asked if he could attend on June 27.

Deleted apology

The Instagram posts deleted by Rodriguez included an apology.

"I wholeheartedly agree with comments that are saying I should not have acted in such an aggressive and harassing way," the deleted post read. "It is not fit of the office I hold and is 100% not the image I want to make of our beautiful town. I sincerely and with all my heart apologize to the Dover community for the black eye I brought upon her. I never meant for any of this to happen."

But he later criticized police for their handling of the incident and failing to properly address the problem of homeless individuals drinking in public. That set off another controversy in town that spilled over to a council meeting in which Delaney spoke out against the councilman, earning him a reprimand from former town administrator BettyLou DecRoce, who has since been terminated.

Speaking directly to Delaney at a Feb. 13 council meeting, Rodriguez said, "I want the people around this town to respect our police. I don't want them saying 'Hey, Dover, we can do whatever we want there.' Because let's face it, that's what's being said. And I don't like it."

That's when Delaney stood up to interrupt the meeting. "We have some of the hardest-working officers in the state of New Jersey, if not the nation," he said. "They have families, too."

Calls for censure, resignation

Since the incident, Mayor James Dodd has stood by Rodriguez despite public calls for his censure or resignation. Those calls include a public letter from the Morris County Young Democrats.

"In the immediate aftermath, Mr. Rodriguez took to social media not to apologize for his actions but, among other things, to blame Dovers chief of police for what he called 'political retribution," the Young Democrats letter reads. "It took three days for Mr. Rodriguez to issue any kind of apology, but he never walked back his initial statements."

Former Mayor Carolyn Blackman also issued a public letter calling for Rodriguez to be censured. "We are better than that," she wrote. "It is the councils duty to censure Rodriguez. He has ridiculed our town one too many times."

Blackman ousted Dodd from office in the 2019 election, unseating the former three-term mayor. Dodd, running on a ticket with Rodriguez, won his office back in the 2023 election, defeating Blackman by a wide margin in the Democratic primary. Since then, Dodd has publicly criticized Blackman for creating a financial crisis for the town.

This article originally appeared on Morristown Daily Record: Dover councilman makes first court appearance after alleged assault
DOVER  The city's new water treatment facility began its first operation on May 2. It is located in the Pudding Hill aquifer and aims to treat contaminants in water such as metals and PFAS.

Meanwhile, the three wells that used to draw water from the Pudding Hill aquifer are in use again after remaining offline for six years, according to John Storer, directory of the city's Community Services division.

Community Services Director John Storer stands in front of the new Pudding Hill Water Treatment Plant in Dover.

Dover is a city entirely reliant on groundwater. Since the Pudding Hill aquifer was taken offline in 2018 due to severe PFAS contamination, the city has faced water scarcity issues. Storer once proposed initiatives urging water users in the city to conserve water as much as possible in 2022.

Storer told Fosters Daily Democrat the water supply provided by three wells in this aquifer has not yet returned to previous volumes. It accounts for only about one-tenth of the citys daily demand.

The day before the water treatment plant started operation, Storer and his team, along with external experts, gave a presentation at a workshop session at the City Council to discuss the challenges and potential issues facing Dover's public water supply system.

Brox Quarry poses a threat to Dover water supply

James Emery, president at Emery & Garret Groundwater Inc., raised concerns about the potential impacts of Brox quarry on Dovers water sources. Situated on the border of Barrington and Dover, and adjacent to the Hoppers aquifer, this quarry is a large facility and Brox is seeking expansion opportunities.

In December 2020, the Community Services Department of Dover sent a letter to Barringtons town planner, expressing concerns over a proposed expansion by Sunset Rock LLC (Brox Industries, Inc.). The letter showed the expansion area falls within 500 feet of the Campbell well, a vital water source providing nearly half of Dovers drinking water. The city of Dover sought to protect the aquifer from potential harm caused by groundwater depletion and contamination, according to the letter.

More Dover news: Duston's Bakery building listed for $1.85M as owners explain their plan to expand by selling

Emery noted the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) has requested a large groundwater withdrawal permit before excavating and draining the quarry. We have not heard whether or not Brox will continue with this effort, but I wanted the council to be aware that this is something that were monitoring because it has the potential to take one of your wells offline, Emery warned in the meeting.

Storer told Fosters that right now the wells and the quarry coexist harmoniously, but the city will watch the issue closely and make sure that the quarry expansion will not impact the wells.

There are two well points in this aquifer. We run them quite heavily and rely on them extensively, Storer said. We cant afford to lose the production capacity of those wells. That would be a devastating loss for the city.

Dover seeks to eliminate lead in water lines

As part of its compliance with the improved lead and copper rule, the City of Dover is conducting an inventory of all water service lines connected to its public drinking water system. It involves documenting the materials used in these service lines, such as lead, plastic, or copper.

Amelia DeGrace, Dover's assistant engineer, said the water service line inventory requirement stems from the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, where the water supply led to 100,000 residents getting contaminated water and exposed between 6,000 and 12,000 children to lead.

All public water systems in New Hampshire are required to submit an inventory of the service lines to the Department of Environmental Services by Oct. 16, 2024. The government website states if a lead service line is discovered, it is essential that the entire service line be replaced from the water main to the building, or lead will continue to leach into the drinking water.

More Dover news: Removal of trees causes heartbreak. City official offers explanation.

DeGrace said the challenge Dover has with this service line inventory is time. If there is an unknown material, we have to treat it as potentially lead and have to notify people by November 15th of this situation. So we are working really hard to reduce our number of unknowns as much as possible.

While the city is required to notify private owners if lead lines are discovered on their properties, these owners are not obligated to replace the lead lines. DeGrace said, We reached out to DES to ask about what if a restaurant were to have a lead service line and then refuse to replace it. We havent received any comment back on that.

The city is requesting water system users complete an online survey

Storer told Fosters that so far they have had a few suspected ones but he was not expecting to come across many of them. The city found one lead service line several years ago when they replaced old water lines downtown that dated back to 1888. He added, Oftentimes on very old buildings that may not have ever been upgraded, there could still be lead service lines within the building itself.

The city plans to focus on areas with legacy water mains and the oldest parts of town that have a lot of old cast iron pipes left. Key areas include the streets of Mount Vernon, Atkinson, Bellamy and Cushing. According to the City Council meeting, the city intends to conduct some minor excavations in these areas to see whether there are any errant lead service lines in the area.

Salt and PFAS contamination

Community Services Director John Storer explains how the plant utilizes granular activated carbon (GAC) to remove all observed PFAS levels in the new Pudding Hill Water Treatment Plant.

Emery told Fosters sodium and chloride from road salt are the number one groundwater contaminant in New Hampshire, and can adversely impair the drinkability of the water supply. Its a human health issue. Its an environmental issue. Its also a corrosive issue to equipment, bridges, highways, and things of that sort, Emery said.

He demonstrated a set of data during the meeting, indicating that in the last several years, the chloride concentration in Smith well has consistently fluctuated around 250 mg/L, which is the secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) for chloride. Emery also noted that the sodium concentration, ideally below 100 mg/L, has risen to 200 mg/L. The sodium and chloride concentrations in Cummings Well have also been going up in recent times.

The widespread use of rock salt on roads to remove ice during winter is an important factor that has caused high levels of sodium and chloride concentration in Dovers water source. According to Emery, Smith well and Cummings well are surrounded by multiple major roads and heavy salt use.

The City Council has approved purchasing commercial brining equipment, including two truck applicators and two sidewalk applicators, so the city can pre-treat the entire area with two trucks in about six hours at a cost of approximately $800, reducing the salt load by 70%-80%, Emery said.

Another significant water quality concern in Dover is PFAS contamination. Emery stated that the Pudding Hill Aquifer was the most heavily impacted by PFAS contamination. For example, take the Ireland Well in this area: since 2016, there have been 42 sampling rounds, with PFAS detected in the water samples during 30 of these rounds.

Being exposed to PFAS can bring various health effects, such as the increased risk of certain cancers, and changes in the immune system and response to certain vaccines, among others.

Storer described it as one of the most frustrating challenges facing the Dover water system: Theyre showing up in products that are getting into the sewer, so we have to deal with that both in our drinking water and wastewater. Theyre still getting out there, and were gonna be left dealing with them, possibly at all city well sites.

The encouraging news is that the water treatment plant, located in the area of the Pudding Hill aquifer, started operating May 2. It can not only treat iron and manganese but also remove MTBE, 1,4-dioxane, and PFAS, making it the only facility in the state that performs all of these treatments.

Storer told Fosters three wells in the Pudding Hill aquifer area have been reactivated, providing water to Dover once again. However, the current output from these three wells only accounts for approximately one-tenth of the citys daily demand. He emphasized, We have test results to verify that the treatment is working and PFAS is being removed.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Dover's water supply faces challenges as new Pudding Hill plant opens
WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah (ABC4)  A driver who crashed a box truck into a West Valley City home, leaving a large crack in its garage, reportedly offered money to witnesses if they didnt call police, according to court documents.

The crash happened Thursday, May 23, shortly after 7:30 p.m. at a home near 5400 South and 5600 West. West Valley City Police responded to the area following a report of a truck that crashed into the home and the driver was believed to be intoxicated.

Officers arrived to find a large box truck had collided with the home, causing substantial damage. Officers say they saw a male, later identified as Matthew Hammick, 36, walking away from the suspect vehicle.

Images that show the damage left behind after a box truck crashed into a West Valley City home. (Jeff Hunter, ABC4)

Images that show the damage left behind after a box truck crashed into a West Valley City home. (Jeff Hunter, ABC4)

Images that show the damage left behind after a box truck crashed into a West Valley City home. (Jeff Hunter, ABC4)

Police said he failed to comply with verbal commands and instead began to run away. After a short foot pursuit, an officer captured Hammick and took him into custody. He was then taken to a local hospital for a DUI investigation, while other officers investigated the scene of the accident.

According to police, a building inspector condemned the garage portion of the residence, but advised the rest of it was still habitable.

Hammick was booked into jail on several charges, including three counts of third-degree felony aggravated assualt, Class A misdemanor of driving under the influence, and failure to stop at command of law enforcement officer.

According to a probable cause statement, Hammick had red glossy eyes, the strong and persistent odor of alcohol on his breath when he spoke and he had very slow/slurred/deliberate speech pattern.

The affidavit said there were multiple witnesses at the scene of the crash, to which Hammick offered money to not call the police. Reportedly, witnesses attempted to have him remain on scene as he was trying to flee in the vehicle. They reported he began accelerating, three witnesses in front of the vehicle were afraid they would be run over. One of them entered the passenger side of the vehicle and turned off the engine, which is when Hammick attempted to flee on foot.

Hammick has prior felony cases, including previous DUIs. According to the probable cause statement, he is an alcohol-restricted driver and is required to have an ignition interlock device installed, which he didnt have on the vehicle.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Dry conditions in Polk County spark fire safety concerns on Memorial Day weekend. Heres how to stay safe

Dry conditions in Polk County spark fire safety concerns on Memorial Day weekend. Heres how to stay safe

POLK COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA)  Polk County Fire Rescue Chief Dr. Hezedean Smith said the agency has battled fires on more than 6,500 acres so far this year, double the amount of fires they responded to by this point last year.

About 75% of the county is, really, very dry, abnormally dry, said Chief Smith.

Chief Smith expects Polk County to issue a burn ban sometime next week. There are already burn bans in effect in Sarasota and Highlands counties.

For now, Chief Smith is asking residents, especially those on campgrounds, to use caution with recreational fires, trash burning and cookouts, and while igniting fireworks.

ATV trails, those are risk areas as well where we have off-road vehicles that may not necessarily have those spark arrestors on there so ultimately they can create a fire hazard, said Chief Smith.

Homes saved, property destroyed in 318-acre Highlands County brush fire

While fire departments use water to put out fires, the Florida Forest Service uses heavy equipment like plows, Todd Chlanda, a wildfire mitigation specialist and public information officer for the Florida Forest Service explained.

The plows clear 6-foot side paths to choke the flames.

If you remove the fuel from the fire, theres nothing to burn, he said.

Chlanda said they have been putting the plows to work recently as hot and dry conditions have lead to more brush fires over the past week and a half.

He urged people to use caution over the holiday weekend, and said those on campgrounds should make sure campfires are all the way extinguished before walking away.

Drown the fire with water. Stir it with a shovel and feel it with the back of your hand. If theres any heat, add more water and do the whole process over again, said Chlanda.

He even had advice on where to park.

As were driving, the underside of the car is heating up. The catalytic converter and the mufflers are heating up. So parking in tall grass can start a fire and you dont even notice it, he said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Bryan Mclean Howard, the 41-year-old Dunnellon man charged with the deaths of eight farmworkers, was in court on Friday.

Howard, who's on suicide watch at the county jail, appeared via Zoom in front of Senior Judge Victor Musleh, charged with 11 counts of DUI with serious bodily injuries.

Musleh ordered no bond for Howard, who's already facing eight counts of DUI manslaughter. Howard said he has an attorney. Records show that long time local defense lawyer, Jack Maro, is representing Howard.

Bryan Mclean Howard faces eight counts of DUI manslaughter and 11 counts of DUI with serious bodily injuries, stemming from a May 14 crash on State Road 40.

According to Howard's arrest report, the 11 individuals had multiple injuries amongst them. The injuries include broken bones, collapsed lungs, brain bleed, facial injuries and an amputated arm. The ages of those injured range between 20 and 40 years old.

Cpl. Gabriel Keyes of the Florida Highway Patrol's Specialist Investigation Reconstruction Team, or SIRT, that's in charge of the crash investigation, interviewed several people about Howard.

A woman told Keyes she saw Howard's vehicle on State Road 40 and it was not maintaining a single lane. At one point, the woman said the truck went onto the shoulder. The woman said she did not see the wreck.

Two medical officials at AdventHealth Ocala Hospital, where Howard was taken following the crash, told the FHP official that Howard's eyes were glassy. One medical official told the trooper that Howard admitted to taking methadone and THC. When Howard was interviewed by a trooper after the crash at the hospital, he said he had smoked marijuana oil with a friend the night before the deadly incident. He said he took medications before going to bed. The next morning, he said he was on his way to a methadone clinic in Ocala for a back issue. He told officials he doesn't remember anything about the crash.

A county fire rescue official said Howard's behavior was erratic when dealing with him.

On May 14, FHP officials said the bus carrying 53 migrant workers was side-swiped by Howard's truck. Authorities said the bus was traveling west when it was hit by the truck traveling in the opposite direction that crossed into the path of the bus.

Bryan Mclean Howard's pickup truck is shown after the fatal May 14 crash on State Road 40 in Marion County.

The workers were on their way to Cannon Farms in Dunnellon. Officials said the bus struck two trees, a wooden fence and overturned. Seven workers died at the scene and a eighth died at a local hospital, officials said.

The crash was the deadliest in recent memory for Marion County.

Shooting at North Marion Middle School

In other court news on Friday, the man charged with Wednesday's deadly shooting at North Marion Middle School, made his first appearance in front of a judge.

Murder: Reddick man charged in fatal shooting outside North Marion Middle School

Sitting at the back, Roderick Kelvin Watson Jr., made his way to the podium to speak with the judge. He said he makes $700 a week and has eight children. The judge appointed the Public Defender's Office to represent him.

The judge denied bond for the 34-year-old Reddick man. He cannot have any contact with the witnesses. In a separate case, Watson also faces a charge of driving without a valid license and was scheduled to make a court appearance on Thursday. Instead, he made his appearance on Friday.

Watson is accused of gunning down 32-year-old Joseph James Juarez Coles in the parking lot of North Marion Middle School.

The school was hosting an awards ceremony at the time of the incident. Sheriff's deputies said Coles and the mother of his children were discussing where the children would be going that evening when Coles grabbed the woman's arm. Watson then got out his vehicle and shot Coles multiple times, deputies said. Deputies were told Watson beat Coles' "lifeless body" while on the ground. Witnesses told officials that Watson was smiling after the incident and showed no remorse.

Watson remained on scene until deputies arrived.

Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com

This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Dunnellon man faces more charges in fatal Marion County bus crash
Mike Estramonte has big plans for a new mental health center in Charlotte.

What were building here is a long-term solution for this crisis, Estramonte says.

Hes talking about youth violence, and Charlotte has seen an uptick in teen crime this year, according to police.

The number one reason that were failing so badly right now is because of lack of continuity of care, Estramonte, the CEO of the Katie Blessing Center, told Channel 9s Almiya White.

The new Katie Blessing Center aims to address juvenile crime rates in Charlotte. Its a 72-bed facility in east Charlotte that will offer inpatient and outpatient mental health care to people ages 5-18.

RELATED: Theres no easy solution to teen crime in Charlotte, leaders say

On Thursday, a city council committee recommended giving the center $2.5 million.

Give the community options, [police] the option ... do we need to take them to a detention center or can we take them to Katie Blessing Center, behavioral health urgent care, have them evaluated, Estramonte said.

Charlotte City Councilman James Mitchell says mental health plays a role in teen crime.

When you look at the causes, were starting to see that 30-40% from a mental standpoint, Mitchell said.

Thats why Estramonte says reaching them while theyre young will make a difference in their future.

This is going to be a major early intervention, and to that degree is going to be a game changer for these children, Estramonte told White.

Mitchell says he hopes this is the first of many steps to help kids in Charlotte.

I hope more organizations will join in as we did with juvenile crime and help us, what I call this whole development cycle and mental, job employment, and mentoring, Mitchell said.

SEE MORE > Raise the Age: The crisis of North Carolinas juvenile justice system

You can learn more about the Katie Blessing Center and how to get involved by clicking this link.

(WATCH: NC Senate advances bill that could lead to juvenile cases beginning in Superior Court)
Eatonville lost the battle for the Black History museum  but insists it could win the war

Although the panel vetting sites for the Florida Museum of Black History recommended St. Augustine over Eatonville this week, a big question remains that gives the Orange County town hope it may yet prevail: Whos going to pay for it?

The nine-member task force picked St. Augustine, and then voted Tuesday for a feasibility study to figure out how to fund construction of the museum, as well as handle its operating expenses.

Supporters of Eatonville, the nations oldest incorporated Black municipality, say its proximity to Orlandos throng of tourists positions it better for success than the quaint beach community 100 miles away.

Im standing here, really puzzled and confused, by what were doing, said state Rep. Bruce Antone, the Orlando Democrat who drafted the legislation to create the museum and has been an outspoken advocate for Eatonville

He suggested the panels vote for a feasibility study means you dont know if its gonna work in St. Johns County, which had about 3 million visitors from July 2021 to June 2022 according to its visitors and convention bureau, compared to 74 million in Orange County in about the same period

Antone said Eatonville can expect a favorable lease for its 10-acre site, owned by Orange County Public Schools, and draw on a local coalition of donors and tourist-tax revenue to help pay to build the 100,000-square-foot museum, estimated to cost at least $100 million.

The venue he envisions would draw 500,000 visitors a year.

In contrast, one supporter of the St. Augustine site on the task force hinted a museum there might need lots of help from the state. If the state would like to fully fund their museum, I wouldnt stand in their way, said Tony Lee, an assistant vice chancellor with the state university system, near the end of the Tuesday meeting.

Feasibility and sustainability studies provide important information for choosing a location, said Nashid Madyun, a task force member, executive director of Florida Humanities and former museum director at Hampton University, a historically Black school in Virginia.

We need to make sure that once the doors are open, they can stay open, he said.

Madyun had ranked Eatonville one point better than St. Augustine.

Signaling its decision may not be final, the panel on Tuesday asked for feasibility studies of three sites, adding Eatonville and Opa Locka in Miami-Dade County, its third-ranked proposal.

St. Augustine advocates say they have access to more resources than may be apparent. They have lined up the support of nonprofits, including the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida and the Jaguars Foundation; three historically Black colleges and universities, and neighboring Nassau, Duval, Clay and Flagler counties.

This is not just a St. Johns County museum, said Sarah Arnold, chair of the county commissioners, lauding the regions success in historical tourism. It is, in fact, a hub-and-spoke, regional asset that will benefit not only northeast Florida but the entire state.

In April, task force members had scored competing sites according to seven criteria, including historical significance and appropriateness of location, then averaged those scores. Eatonville ranked highest with five of the nine task force members, but its averaged score was just behind St. Augustine, in large part because one member, Rep. Kiyan Michael, handed St. Augustine a perfect score and Eatonville its lowest marks, with a gap of 32 points.

The Jacksonville Beach Republican was appointed to the panel by Speaker of the House Paul Renner, whose district includes St. Johns County. She said at the meeting she didnt believe she had to justify her scores and described scrutiny of her evaluations as bullying.

The panel had been expected Tuesday to whittle its four finalists, which also included Sarasota, to two.

But instead the panel voted, 5-4, to let its averaged rankings from April stand as its recommendation. That handed the win to St. Augustine.

The surprise swing vote on Tuesday was state Rep. Berny Jacques, a Republican from Pinellas County appointed to the task force by Gov. Ron DeSantis. Last month, Jacques scored both Eatonville and Opa Locka 15 points better than St. Augustine. But then he backed the proposal that put St. Augustine at the top  the only member of the panel to, in effect, switch his preference.

Jacques did not return calls, emails or texts seeking an explanation.

Despite the panels recommendation Tuesday, Eatonville advocates insist their window of opportunity remains open.

Were hopeful an unbiased study will show whats really possible and whats not, said Demetris Pressley, Eatonvilles Chief Administrative Officer. Theres still a chance.

The task force is scheduled to meet twice more in June, and has a July 1 deadline to deliver its recommendations. The legislation requires it to draft a transition plan for the museum to become financially self sufficient  and give that to the governor and legislators.

State Sen. Geraldine Thompson, a Windermere Democrat who led the task force, blamed politics for muddying the groups decision. But she saw a silver lining in the controversy, saying she is encouraged by the attention the museum has generated.

If nothing else, I think this has heightened the interest of people in African-American history and made it clear that we have not celebrated it or elevated it to the point we should have, she said.

shudak@orlandosentinel.com
Senate President Don Harmon must be comfortable taking political ownership of whatever now happens to Chicagos selective-enrollment, magnet and charter schools after acceding to Mayor Brandon Johnsons wishes not to call a vote on state legislation that would protect them from major changes.

We wouldnt feel the same if we were in his position and cant fathom why the Oak Park Democrat is going to bat for this highly unpopular mayor, who has given Chicagoans no reason more than a year after taking office to have confidence in his assurances or even his capacity for good sense. As the General Assemblys spring session winds down, with a budget deal apparently struck, the battle over Chicago Public Schools has taken center stage.

The measure in question, sponsored by Chicago Rep. Margaret Croke, passed the House 92-8, and Gov. J.B. Pritzker said hed sign it. The idea behind the bill was to pause any major changes to CPS school choice system until a fully elected school board takes office. Thats not until 2027.

In pushing to tie Johnsons hands in the meantime, Croke was responding to his handpicked school boards publicly calling for a substantial overhaul of that system. Johnson and his close ally, Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates, have derided the current system as racially discriminatory. Parents of school-age children understandably were  and are  alarmed that leftists now in charge of the city and its schools were bent on foreclosing or at least reducing options other than CPS neighborhood schools.

Johnson in recent days pleaded with Harmon  for whom he once worked as a staffer  to put a brick on the bill. He released a letter promising not to pursue disproportionate cuts to selective-enrollment schools and to preserve testing requirements for admission. The pledges are strikingly vague and make no mention of charter or magnet schools. The CTU, in particular, has made no secret of its disdain for the number of charters in the city.

Croke in a statement expressed outrage. The CPS school budgeting process has been hidden from both the public and from Springfield legislators, and I fully expect that disproportionate cuts will be made to magnet schools and charters will eventually be closed, she wrote.

Harmon and his staff so far have been mum. Well hear from the Senate president eventually. We presume.

When we do, it will be quite interesting to hear him explain why Chicagoans shouldnt think this mayor, having no leverage of any kind and sporting approval ratings somewhere under 30%, rolled the leader of the upper chamber in Springfield on a matter of major import to the citys future. Perhaps Harmon will say that the Senate can always return to the bill in the fall if Johnson is perceived to have broken his promises, such as they were. The mayors pledges are so loosely defined that they can encompass a wide range of actions, many of which would be severely detrimental to school choice in Chicago. Has this mayor earned the benefit of the doubt?

Fortunately for Harmon, he doesnt have to rely on Chicagoans to keep him in office. The vast majority of House members from Chicago, all Democrats, voted for this bill. Many of those supporters are ideologically aligned with the mayor; their natural desire to support his causes clearly were trumped by the express wishes of their constituents.

For his sake and the citys, Harmon had better hope his faith in Brandon Johnson is well placed.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
Four years after George Floyd was arrested and murdered by Minneapolis police, the nation is in the midst of a backlash movement that is trying to rewrite the narrative, the legacy and even the facts of the killing.

Call it the anti-reckoning. And it's a disturbing sign of how hard-fought progress on policing and racial justice reforms are under attack by powerful and entrenched interests.

Floyd, a Black man, was taken into custody at around 8 p.m. on Memorial Day, May 25, 2020, after police received a call reporting someone trying to pass a fake $20 bill. Officer Derek Chauvin kneeled on Floyds neck despite Floyds anguished cries that he was unable to breathe. After 9 minutes, Floyd was dead.

Read more: Editorial series: Reckoning with the murder of George Floyd

The killing sparked months of protests against police brutality and racism in American society, especially in the criminal justice system. The demonstrations were not unprecedented; widespread protests had marked the earlier killings of Black men and boys: Trayvon Martin in Florida, Eric Garner in New York, Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., and many others. And there had been blatant acts of white supremacist blowback including the mass slaughter of Black churchgoers in Charleston, S.C., in 2015 and the ugly Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., in 2017.

But anxiety over the COVID-19 pandemic and weeks of lockdowns had turned the nation into a pressure cooker. With the Floyd murder, it exploded.

In statehouses and city halls, lawmakers began considering in earnest the role of race and racism in policing and public safety. Long-delayed discussions of unarmed response to incidents involving mental illness and drug-related behavioral problems finally got on track. New laws were passed to clear court proceedings of racial inequities. Voters continued the trend of electing a new breed of prosecutors who put the quest for justice ahead of demanding the longest possible sentences.

Read more: Editorial: Lots of talk, still too little change to policing three years after George Floyd's murder

Even corporate America briefly got on board. Companies promised to pay billions of dollars to combat systemic racism.

The shift in attitude and policy was labeled the racial reckoning.

In law and policy there have been a few lasting advances, such as banning deadly police chokeholds in some jurisdictions that still allowed them, and compiling data that show the extent to which race affects policing practices.

But in Congress, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which would have incentivized broad police reforms, was rejected twice on mostly party-line votes.

Read more: Editorial: Of course the death penalty is racist. And it would be wrong even if it weren't

In Los Angeles and most other jurisdictions, officials have failed to move unarmed response beyond the pilot stage, and they're still talking about alternatives to police only for traffic and parking infractions. The countys Care First plan to realign response to lower-level crimes from jail to healthcare, treatment and other social services agencies is moving at a snails pace.

Police unions, traditional prosecutors and conservative politicians have taken advantage of the slow movement of reform and fears of crime, real and imagined, to push back not only on post-Floyd reforms but those adopted over the previous decade. In California that means yet another assault on Proposition 47, this time falsely blaming it for homelessness.

Police at first broadly criticized Chauvin as a bad cop in an otherwise flawless system. The "bad apple" theory formed the basis for opposition to the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and other reforms.

Then came challenges to the facts of Floyds death. Far-right commentators assert that Chauvin didnt actually kill Floyd at all, but instead arrested a man already dying of a fentanyl overdose. The officer then was supposedly set up by a corrupt criminal justice system out of fear, or in thrall, of Black Lives Matter.

Read more: Editorial: A plan to limit police stops is stuck in L.A. traffic. Time to get it moving again

This nonsense has been thoroughly dissected and disproven, but it remains an article of faith among a certain core of conspiracy theorists who appear to believe that prosecutors, judges and juries were corrupted and imprisoned an innocent man. The irony in this line of thinking is head-spinning: This justice system supposedly operated for years without a taint of the racism against which hundreds of thousands of Americans had been protesting, until a white police officer was put on trial for killing a Black man. Then, suddenly, the system became untrustworthy and illegitimate.

There has also been a steady effort to redefine the protests as gang violence or even insurrection, as a kind of defensive projection by defenders  including former President Trump  of the Jan. 6, 2021 mob assault on the U.S. Capitol to block certification of Joe Bidens election to replace Trump.

It is quite true that the Floyd protests of 2020 were pockmarked by arson and property destruction, resulting in losses of more than $1 billion. None of that is OK.

Read more: Editorial: Abolish the police? No. Reform policing? Absolutely

But the claim that the perpetrators acted with impunity while the Jan. 6 attackers are being imprisoned is demonstrably untrue. Thousands of people have been arrested and criminally punished, including with prison, for acts that crossed the line from protest to crime. In fact, analyses show that people arrested for 2020 offenses were sanctioned unusually harshly.

The ongoing battle between the George Floyd reckoning and the anti-reckoning blowback is a battle over the role of truth in our society and its institutions. But if we believe facts are real, and independent from ideology and political power, we must acknowledge that what happened to Floyd was real, horrid and unjust. And that it wasn't a one-off, but an example of a flaw in our criminal justice system that must be remedied.

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Editorial | Franklin County government is broken  and only voters can fix it

Shocking new revelations have emerged about the dysfunctional and potentially illegal activities of some of Franklin Countys highest elected officials.

Criminal investigations might lead to prosecutions and eventually convictions, but that probably wont be enough to fix the rot at the core of county government.

Genuine change will come only when voters demand better.

County Commission Chairman Rocky Mullen, Commissioner Clint Didier and Auditor Matt Beaton are the subjects of investigations into alleged misconduct.

It all started with a payment approved, then blocked, to the former managers of the HAPO Center. That maneuvering prompted county Administrator Mike Gonzalez to seek legal review.

Things soon spiraled out of control. Now there are allegations of a cover-up, lies and intimidation. Theres even a secret recording to spice things up and expose some of the lies. Mullen, Didier and Beaton come off looking at best like incompetents and at worst like conniving conspirators and bullies.

Unanswered questions remain, not least why paying the HAPO manager even became an issue. No doubt more details will emerge as the investigations continue.

No charges have been filed, but official misconduct, tampering with a witness, criminal conspiracy and making false statements to a public servant are possible. Sheriffs investigators are doing the leg work under guidance from a Snohomish County special prosecutor.

For the full story, check out the comprehensive reporting by Tri-City Herald reporter Cory McCoy who has doggedly tracked the emerging scandal. He most recently used Washingtons Public Records Act to obtain investigative documents that shed light on things.

The next time lawmakers or others are skeptical about the value of government transparency, let this be one of the premier examples of why its needed. Without access to records, the public would still be in the dark about how bad things are in Franklin County.

A few years ago, Commissioners Mullen and Didier blamed previous county Administrator Keith Johnson and former Commissioner Brad Peck for dysfunction in county government. Now Johnson and Peck are both gone, and the mess is worse than ever. That should tell voters something.

Gonzalez was their hire, but as soon as he questions or balks at their requests  which a good county administrator will do from time to time  they turn on him. Its as if all they want is a lackey who will keep his or her mouth shut and do what they say, not a leader, manager and policy adviser.

Johnson resigned in 2022 after Mullen and Didier made a surprise move to fire him at a public meeting the year before. They didnt even have the courtesy to warn Johnson or the public about their plan. Commissioners tabled the motion over Didiers objection, but the writing was on the wall for Johnson.

His departure was the culmination of an exodus of upper-level county staff. A public works director and an assessor had previously resigned. Two human resources directors also quit in less than a year. They cited a toxic environment created by elected officials.

They didnt name names, but there are only so many elected county officials. Its not hard to see that the unprofessional behavior continues.

When that much experience and leadership departs in a short time, it cant help but affect other county employees. Co-workers arent oblivious to the shouting matches, untenable demands of elected officials, disrespectful behavior and general dysfunction. Morale and employee mental health suffer, and along with them public services.

If investigators file criminal charges, it could lead to change at the county, but thats a big if. The real power for change rests with voters.

Franklin County deserves better, but to get it, voters must do better.

They must look at the disaster unfolding at the hands of the people they elected and commit to finding different leadership. They can start this fall. Mullen is up for re-election, giving voters a choice between a new direction and more of the same.
At least four people were killed and 35 injured by an EF4 tornado that plowed through the center of Greenfield, Iowa, on Tuesday. Peak winds of 185 mph were estimated by the National Weather Service after extensive damage surveys were conducted, but those numbers could still change.

It was the strongest tornado to hit the United States since the EF4 tornado that hit Rolling Fork, Mississippi, on Mar. 24, 2023, with winds of 195 mph.

Tuesday's twister was more than a half-mile wide at one point and tracked for at least 44 miles, from 3 miles south-southeast of Villisca in Page County to 4 miles east-northeast of Greenfield in Adair County.

"It's horrific," Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds told CNN Wednesday. "It's hard to describe until you can actually see the devastation."

"It's gonna be a lot of years before this town gets back to normal," one tornado survivor recalled as he walked around the debris.

At least 200 homes were destroyed by storms in Iowa this week, Reynolds said, after expanding the state's disaster declaration from 15 to 32 counties. Several wind turbines were knocked down by a tornado outside of the town of Greenfield.

On Friday morning, a derecho moving through Iowa caused additional damage, with winds as high as 75 mph estimated in Greenfield.
Since October, Egypt, a country that neighbors both Israel and the Gaza Strip, has vied to be among those helping to mediate an end to the hostilities sparked on Oct. 7 when Hamas infiltrated southern Israel.



Yet the most populous Arab state, which signed a peace treaty with Israel more than 40 years ago, seems to be playing a duplicitous game, with reports of dozens of Hamas tunnels snaking beneath its border with the Palestinian enclave, rocket launch sites found only meters from its territory and even officials undermining the cease-fire negotiations to pressure Israel into ending the war, analysts say.



Its all a balancing act for Egypt right now, Joe Truzman, a senior research fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told Jewish Insider.



Egypt is in a difficult position and is nervous about what may come out of this conflict, he continued. On the one hand, it has a sizeable pro-Palestinian population, and does not want to see massive protests on the streets against the inaction of the Egyptian government; on the other, Egypt wants to maintain ties with Israel because it was instrumental in assisting the Egyptians in defeating the Islamic State in the northern Sinai and because Egypts relationship with Israel improves its standing with Washington.



Truzman said the leadership in Cairo may also be worried about what Israel will find in Rafah, Gazas southernmost town, which runs along the Egypt border and the place where Hamas remaining battalions are said to be dug in among more than a million displaced civilians. Israel also believes that some 128 hostages, taken by Hamas terrorists during the Oct. 7 attack, are being held captive there.



It could potentially be embarrassing for Egypt, said Truzman. I believe this is one of the big reasons why it has been so vocal against Israeli operations in the southern city.



He said that as a mediator in past conflicts between Israel and Hamas, it was possible that Egypt offered some concessions to the Iranian-backed Islamist terror group that has ruled Gaza since 2007  including the possibility of allowing it to keep or reestablish some of its cross-border tunnels.



In 2013, when current Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi ousted then-President Mohammed Morsi, a member and supporter of the Muslim Brotherhood, the new government worked to destroy hundreds of cross-border tunnels built by Hamas. It also created a buffer zone  destroying homes and farms along the border  to combat transnational terror activity between terrorists in Sinai and Gaza.



Its possible Egypt missed some of the tunnels then, or that Hamas was able to reestablish its underground network to ferry weapons and possibly fighters, Truzman observed. Although its also possible that Egypt didnt destroy all the tunnels because it wanted to gain some political leverage with Hamas.



It is also reasonable to assume that Israeli officials were aware that the improved ties between Egypt and Hamas could have led to efforts by Hamas to leverage it and build tunnels, he added.



Last Friday, responding to a South African petition in the International Court of Justice in The Hague calling for Israel to immediately halt its ground assault in Rafah, Israels deputy attorney general for international law, Gilad Noam, described an intricate tunnel system built in Rafah  and estimated that some 50 passageways connected it to Egypt.



He said the subterranean network, which also includes operation centers and bunkers where some of the hostages are likely being kept, allows Hamas to supply itself with weapons and ammunition.



[These tunnels] could potentially be used to smuggle hostages or senior Hamas operatives out of Gaza, the deputy attorney general told the court. He also noted that since the start of the present hostilities facilities, more than 1,400 rockets have been fired from Rafah, including more than 120 in the last two weeks.



While the army has yet to comment formally on the discovery of cross-border tunnels between Gaza and Egypt, there have been reports of Israeli troops discovering rocket launch sites located only meters from the Egyptian border.



Khaled Hassan, an Egyptian-born political risk and intelligence analyst with over 13 years of experience working in the Middle East, told JI that it was unlikely the Egyptian government was aware of the tunnels or that it was indifferent or complicit in building them.



It is important to remember that in December, the Israeli military discovered a large tunnel in Gaza with an entryway just a few hundred meters from its heavily guarded and fortified Erez crossing, he noted, adding that widely accepted conspiracy theories in the Arab world suggest that Israel and its highly capable intelligence community must have known about that, and other tunnels.



This is the same argument we hear from Egypts critics who are suggesting that Egypt must have known about those tunnels, Hassan said.



It was more likely, he continued, that the tunnels were built by Bedouin smugglers attempting to move products and individuals in and out of the Strip, a popular scheme since the start of Israel  and Egypts  economic blockade of the territory following Hamas takeover nearly two decades ago.



If Israel, with all its advanced intelligence and military capabilities, did not detect tunnels close to its border with Gaza, then it is also likely that Egypt, with its comparatively limited capabilities, would have missed tunnels along its border with Gaza, Hassan emphasized.



However, a CNN report on Wednesday that an Egyptian intelligence official purposely changed the terms of a recent cease-fire proposal, already approved by Israel, in order to get Hamas to agree to it and further damage Israels public image, might complicate the countrys role as a mediator even further.



The news outlet said CIA Director Bill Burns, whom President Joe Biden charged with leading the cease-fire and hostage-release negotiations, was angry and embarrassed by sudden changes to the agreed-upon framework for the deal. The report quoted unnamed officials saying that the changes were instigated by a senior Egyptian intelligence official named Ahmed Abdel Khalek.



Hassan explained that Egypts opposition to the Rafah operation stems from a combination of regional and domestic issues facing Sisi, but added that prolonging the war was creating an increasingly dangerous situation.



This could be the most critical stage of the war since Oct. 7, he said. The CNN report erodes Israeli and American trust in Egypt as a reliable mediator and diminishes the possibility of renewed negotiations.





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On the night of May 19, Ukrainian drones attacked the Russian military airfield "Kushchevskaya" in the Krasnodar Territory. Russia claimed that almost 60 drones were allegedly shot down over the region during the night attack, and remained silent about the consequences of the attack.

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But there were consequences: judging by satellite images, at least two Russian fighter jets were hit during the attack, and the third is in doubt. Aviation expert Anatolii Khrapchynskyi came to these conclusions when analyzing images from the Planet Labs satellite at the request of the "Schemes" project and the Russian service of Radio Liberty.

The "Schemes" journalists received the latest Planet Labs satellite images that captured the territory of the Kushchevskaya airfield after the attack on the night of May 19. After examining them, Khrapchynskyi spotted at least two damaged Russian fighters, Su-27 and Su-34, and one more, Su-30, in doubt.

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"We see a Su-34 with damaged or removed wings, and a damaged Su-27 in another part of the airfield. A Su-30 could also have been damaged, as it has hardly changed its position since May 11 and is located next to the damaged Su-27," the expert noted.

According to Khrapchynskyi, the Kushchevskaya airfield was used as a training base for the Krasnodar Higher Military Aviation School: Russia trained future pilots there.

However, after the start of the full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the airfield was no less actively used for attacks on Ukraine.

Interestingly, after the attack on May 19, which, according to sources, was carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine, the occupiers took most of the aircraft from the airfield.

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The morning after the strike on Kushchevskaya and several other military facilities in Russia, the Russian Defense Ministry boasted that it had allegedly "shot down" 57 Ukrainian drones over the Krasnodar Territory alone. They traditionally kept silent about how many of them hit their targets and what damage the aggressor suffered.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
Egypt and Jordan welcome ICJ decision on Rafah

Smoke rises following Israeli air strikes on Al-Jeneina and Al-Salam neighbourhoods. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa

Egypt and Jordan have welcomed the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) call for Israel to immediately end its military operation in Rafah and urged the UN Security Council to put pressure on Israel to end its operation.

Egypt urged Israel to implement the measures stated by the ICJ, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

It also "called on the [UN] Security Council and influential international parties to fulfil their legal and humanitarian responsibilities by adopting decisive measures to put an end to the humanitarian humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza."

Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi hailed the ICJ's decision for exposing "Israel's war crimes in Gaza."

The Security Council "must shoulder its responsibility, put an end to Israels impunity & to double standards in enforcing [international] law," al-Safadi wrote on X.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also welcomed the decision, saying it "reflects the international community's commitment to international law and justice, and enhances the protection of the rights of the Palestinian people."

GCC Secretary General Jasem al-Budaiwi also called on the international community to pressure Israel to stop "the hostile and brutal acts against the Palestinian people."
This week, eight Saint Regis Mohawk tribal members were arrested by New York state police and charged with trespassing and conspiracy, for attempting to reclaim tribal land on Barnhart Island.

On the evening of May 21, 2024, New York State Police responded to Barnhart Island in upstate New York for a criminal mischief complaint, according to police. The property is currently owned by the New York State Power Authority, and the group of tribal members did not have permission to be on the property, police said.

An investigation determined a group of tribal members of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe were trespassing and intentionally damaging the property, police said.

Facebook photos and video show a backhoe at the scene, and also a newly erected sign calling for repossessing lost lands and human rights.

In response to the event, The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, and Mohawk Nation Council of Chiefs issued a press release condemning the actions of its eight tribal members.

We understand the feelings of some tribal members that we own Barnhart Island since it is part of our historic homelands, the groups wrote. However, we do not feel this action is productive or helpful and can set back our progress in the land claim settlement, which is nearing a positive resolution and could bring over 14,000 acres of Mohawk homelands to the community.

The council added that Barnhart Island was historically Mohawk land, but has not been under Akwesasnes possession since the 1820s due to illegal takings. The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, and the Mohawk Nation Council of Chiefs are currently engaged in a settlement process with New York State to address longstanding land rights issues, they added. The proposed agreement would recognize the rights of access by Akwesasne community members to Barnhart Island.

About the Author: "Jenna Kunze is a staff reporter covering Indian health, the environment and breaking news for Native News Online. She is also the lead reporter on stories related to Indian boarding schools and repatriation. Her bylines have appeared in The Arctic Sounder, High Country News, Indian Country Today, Tribal Business News, Smithsonian Magazine, Elle and Anchorage Daily News. Kunze is based in New York."

Contact: jkunze@indiancountrymedia.com
U.S. President Joe Biden greets attendees after speaking at a campaign event on April 16, 2024, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images)

President Joe Biden cruised to victory in Thursdays Idaho Democratic Caucus, claiming 95% of the votes to win the six-candidate caucus outright, the Idaho Democratic Party announced.

Results released late Thursday night by the Idaho Democratic Party showed Biden won more votes than all the other candidates combined.

Biden: 2,297 votes, 95%

David Olscamp: 14 votes, 0.5%

Jason Palmer: five votes, 0.2%

Armando Perez-Serrato: three votes, 0.1%

Dean Phillips: 14 votes, 0.5%

Marianne Williamson: 79 votes, 3.28%

The Idaho Democratic Party reported there were 2,412 votes cast in Thursdays caucus.

Idaho Democratic Caucus 2024

A total of 2,412 votes means turnout was exceedingly low on Thursday. However, calculating the percentage of voter turnout could be tricky because Democrats and unaffiliated voters were allowed to vote in the caucus.

The Idaho Secretary of States Office reports there are 125,585 registered Democratic voters in the state. Based only on the pool of 125,585 Democratic voters, turnout could be calculated at about 1.9%, but that calculation would ignore the fact that some unaffiliated voters did vote in the Democratic caucus. The Democratic Party did not indicate the number of unaffiliated voters who cast ballots Thursday.

Across the Gem State, there are 273,862 unaffiliated voters, according to the Idaho Secretary of States Office.

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At any rate, Bidens victory was never in doubt. As the incumbent president, Biden had already secured enough delegates to clinch the Democratic Partys nomination for president.

The presidential caucus is new for Idaho voters this year because the Idaho Legislature seemingly unintentionally eliminated the presidential primary election in Idaho by passing House Bill 138 during the 2023 legislative session. The Idaho Republican Party held its presidential caucus on March 2. The Idaho Republican Party announced that former President Donald J. Trump won Idahos GOP caucus.

Voters, officials say they prefer a primary election rather than a presidential caucus

Several Democratic caucus goers and elected officials told the Idaho Capital Sun that they would prefer to vote for president in a primary election instead of a separate caucus.

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It seems pretty easy, but I dont know why we have primaries and a caucus, voter Sally Davies-Sexton told the Idaho Capital Sun after casting her vote for Biden at the Timberline High School caucus site in Boise on Thursday. Its just having two events, and then this is not exactly around the corner.

Idahos primary election, which did not feature presidential candidates, took place earlier in the week on Tuesday.

Voter Mary Ruckh has volunteered as a poll worker and served as a chief elections judge at a polling site during Tuesdays Idaho primary election. Ruckh rode her bicycle to the Timberline High School caucus site to vote for Biden, but said she would have preferred to vote in a primary election. Primary elections are run by county elections offices and the state, while a caucus is run by the political parties.

A primary  its so much more structured, its under the egis of government, Ruckh said.

Ruckh did say this years Democratic presidential caucus was a major improvement over the most recent Democratic caucus in 2016, which was marred by long lines that many voters endured for hours.

Idaho House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, told the Sun on Thursday that the Idaho Legislature needs to reinstate a presidential primary.

Rep. Ilana Rubel, a Democrat, represents legislative district 18.

We very much wanted a primary, because we were really concerned about the limitations on a caucus and whether that would restrict full participation, Rubel said.

I certainly hope before the next presidential race that we are able to restore a primary, Rubel added.

Idaho Democratic Party rules allowed voters who will turn 18 years old by the Nov. 5 general election to register to vote and vote in Thursdays presidential caucus.

Kennedy Fletcher, a 17-year-old first-time voter, received a round of applause from Democratic volunteers and other voters when she turned in her ballot Thursday night at Timberline High School. Fletcher told the Sun she is supporting Biden because of the clear differences between him and Trump.

I like getting involved politically. I know who I am going to vote for and everything, and I am really excited to vote in the actual presidential election, Fletcher said.

Assistant House Minority Leader Lauren Necochea, D-Boise

Idaho Democratic Party Chair Lauren Necochea, who is also the outgoing House assistant minority leader, said she wasnt surprised to see Biden perform strongly in Thursdays caucus. Necochea said the party will unify strongly behind Biden heading into the Nov. 5 Election Day.

President Biden is the only person who has beaten President Trump in a presidential election, Necochea said.

Idaho Democrats allowed absentee voting, media coverage

While the Idaho Republican Partys March 2 caucus required voters to participate only in person, the Idaho Democratic Party allowed voters request and mail in an absentee ballot if they were unable to attend due to military or religious service, work, disability, illness, child care obligations or the inability to travel.

The Idaho Democratic Party also allowed news reporters to observe the caucus and interview voters. The Idaho Republican Party did not allow news reporters who are not affiliated with the Republican Party to observe its caucus.

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The post Election 2024: Biden wins Idaho Democratic Partys presidential caucus appeared first on Idaho Capital Sun.
Electrical failure of fan leads to fire at Judice Middle School

Electrical failure of fan leads to fire at Judice Middle School

LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) A part of Judice Middle School sustained significant amounts of damage Wednesday night after an electrical failure of fan led to a fire, according to the Lafayette Fire Department.

Around 9:45 p.m., multiple fire departments were sent to Judice Middle School after the alarm went off, and when firefighters got there, they noticed smoke coming from the building. Firefighters found the fire in a storage room for band instruments.

Although the fire was put out quickly, LFD said the room and multiple instruments were heavily damaged. The immediate area also sustained smoke and water, according to fire officials.

LFD determined an electrical failure of a fan in the storage room ignited combustible material.

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On Thursday, the Supreme Court dealt yet another major blow to the voting rights of Black Americans. The courts 63 opinion in Alexander v. NAACP greenlighted the South Carolina Legislatures decision to shuffle Black residents out of a competitive congressional district to shore up its Republican lean. After a lengthy hearing, a district court found that the GOP-controlled Legislature had targeted Black South Carolinians, diminishing their voting power in violation of the 14th Amendments equal protection clause. Now, however, SCOTUS conservative supermajority has absolved the Legislature of racist intent, reshaping the law to make it near impossible for voting rights advocates to win racial gerrymandering claims.

Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern discussed the decision in a bonus Slate Plus episode of Amicus. Their conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

To listen to the full episode of Amicus, join Slate Plus.

Dahlia Lithwick: I want to start with the fact that this is the same Justice Alito who, less than 24 hours earlier, was caught out as having flown a Stop the Steal Jan. 6 flag. And there he was, on the bench, handing down a decision that he penned. It was a decision that set aside mountains of actual fact-finding by the district court because Alito just decided, Well, all those facts are wrong.

Mark Joseph Stern: Exactly. Until now, the Supreme Court has reviewed those decisions on whats called clear error, which is a fancy way of saying that unless the lower court really obviously messed up, you should give deference to their findings. Why? Because they were the ones sitting in the courtroom listening, witnessing, looking at the evidence, deciding the case on the very complex facts and law and math and geography that are unique to every redistricting case. Alito essentially overturned that principle of deference. He did so on the basis of what he calls the presumption of legislative good faithand what Voxs Ian Millhiser rightly calls the presumption of white racial innocence.

Alito says, in short, that courts should pretty much never find that state legislatures acted with racist intent, because they are owed this presumption of good faith that cuts in their favor. And he just makes up the reasons whyhes just pulling it out of his pocket. Alito says: First, state legislators are bound by an oath to the Constitution, and we should assume theyre following that oath. Second, when we accuse state legislators of doing race-based redistricting, were accusing them of offensive and demeaning conduct that bears a resemblance to political apartheid, and we should not be quick to hurl such accusations at the political branches. Finally, he says, we should be wary of voting rights plaintiffs who seek to transform federal courts into weapons of political warfare through racial gerrymandering claims.

So, overall, hes saying it really hurts the feelings of state legislators to accuse them of racial gerrymandering. Its so mean, in fact, that courts should close their eyes to evidence of racist redistricting and give legislators a benefit of the doubt that they do not deserve and have not earnedall to ensure that the actual victims of their handiwork, the plaintiffs who are bringing this case, cannot cynically manipulate the courts into a tool of political warfare to win more Democratic representation in Congress.

Im reminded of Alitos presumption of bad faith for every federal prosecutor in the Trump immunity case. Of course, every single federal prosecutor is a completely feral, malfeasant gotcha guy, but state legislators are better. Why? We dont know. Its just the important principle that if Alito likes you, you win.

Lets talk about what happens if Alito doesnt like you and you happen to be an established precedent of the Supreme Court. This case should have been really easy because the Supreme Court decided a similar one in 2017: Cooper v. Harris, which involved a North Carolina congressional district. The court, which looked very different in 2017, struck down the district. And in her majority opinion, Justice Elena Kagan rejected all the garbage that Alito shoveled into the law on Thursday. She wrote that plaintiffs dont have to present a specific kind of evidence and appeals courts should defer to district courts findings, not go over them with a super-skeptical eye.

Here, rather than acknowledging that hes overturning Cooper v. Harris, Alito accuses Kagan of misreading her own opinion from just seven years ago. He says she was talking about an imaginary version of Cooper v. Harriswhich, I cannot stress enough, is a decision that she herself wrote. It is a noxious mix of mansplaining and gaslighting for Alito to overrule this precedent without admitting it, then tell the author of the precedent that she misunderstood the meaning of the opinion that she wrote.

And Kagans dissent is kind of personal. You can tell when she writes those crisp, declarative sentences that she will not be told that this somehow follows on from her logic in Cooper v. Harris. And she conspicuously uses the term upside-down twice, which reads like a pretty clear dig at Alitos flag controversy. Theres quite a visceral sense that these two are disagreeing.

I agree theres a lot of bad blood between Alito and Kagan in these dueling opinions. Kagan sounds furious and offended, and rightly so. She is seeing her own precedentwhich itself was built on decades of earlier precedentso cavalierly and dishonestly reversed.

Sometimes when youre in dissent, you try to make the best of the majority opinion: You can suggest that there are still ways around the new blockade, other approaches or theories or methods that might get around the majoritys roadblock. But here, Kagan gives it to us straight. As she puts it, the majority tells states to go right ahead and draw racial gerrymanders because it will be easy enough to cover your tracks in the end. If this is now the law, there is really no law against racial gerrymandering. The equal protection clause has been gutted. The postCivil War amendments no longer have any meaningful application to racial gerrymandering.
Elgin News Digest: East Dundee closes on sale to purchase old Haeger Pottery site; U-46 to provide school supply kits for 2024-25 elementary school students; Red Poppy Bistro ready for a second run in new South Elgin location

East Dundee closes on sale to purchase old Haeger Pottery site

East Dundee has purchased the shuttered Haeger Pottery site, marking a milestone for the village as it transforms the historic property into an active residential area, officials said.

This is a pivotal moment for East Dundee, Village President Jeff Lynam said in a news release. The acquisition of the former Haeger Pottery site represents our commitment to improve our community.

The village envisions this site as a vibrant residential redevelopment which will bring more residents to our community to enjoy easy access to downtown as well as adding new greenspace along the Fox River, Lynam said.

The seven-acre site, located at 7 Maiden Lane, has been closed since Haeger Potteries shut down in May 2016 after 145 years in business.

Haegers extensive history includes providing bricks to help rebuild Chicago following the Great Chicago Fire in 1871 and being part of the part of the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago in 1934. In the 1920s, it produced teaware, lunchware, crystal, glasses and other goods that have since become collectors items.

The acquisition has been in the works for two years, with the village planning to use the property for residential development and open space, officials said. A request for proposals seeking redevelopment concepts is expected to be ready in the next few months.

U-46 to provide school supply kits for 2024-25 elementary school students

School District U-46 plans to provide classroom supply kits for all kindergarten through sixth grade students for the 2024-25 school year.

This is the fourth year supplies are being provided and it could be the last, according to information provided to the U-46 School Board, which tentatively approved an $895,000 contract Monday with Texas-based Educational Products Inc. A final vote is expected Monday, June 10.

Since the 2021-22 school year, the district has been using money provided by the federal COVID-19 Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund to pay for the supply kits as a cost-saving measure for strugging families. This is likely the last time the money will be available, staff told the board.

Moving forward, we would need to look at budgeting them, board member Dawn Martin said at the meeting.

The contract calls for the purchase of more than 16,000 supply kits, which contain such items as pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, headphones, Play-Doh, colored pencils and highlighters, depending on grade level.

Documents note that the kits will allow students and families to focus on their learning instead of worrying about whether they have appropriate school supplies.

Red Poppy Bistro ready for a second run in new South Elgin location

Red Poppy Bistro has opened at its new 322 S. Randall Road location in South Elgin.

The restaurant, owned and operated by Matthew Habib and his wife, Jennifer Polit, was located at 109 E. Highland Ave. in downtown Elgin from 2020 through part of 2022. In May 2023, the couple renovated the restaurant and opened it as Rogues Corner, which closed at the end of January.

The South Elgin location is the former home of Honey Berry Pancakes and Cafe, which closed in November 2023.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves food based on Polits Polish and German roots and Habibs mothers training as a French pastry chef.

Hawthorne nature center hosting discussion of new Kolbert latest book

A discussion of Elizabeth Kolberts latest book, H if for Hope: Climate Change from A to Z, will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, 28 Brookside Drive in Elgin.

The free event is being hosted by Sandy Kaptain, wife of Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain, according to a Facebook post for the event.

Kolberts book contains 26 essays  one for each letter of the alphabet  that illustrate the journey through the history of climate change and the uncertainties of the planets future, according to publisher Penguin House.

For more information on the event, call 847-531-7055.

Elgin Leadership Academy has 21 students in graduating class

The Elgin Leadership Academy class of 2024 celebrated 21 students completion of its 10-month program with a graduation ceremony held at Elgin Community College.

Offered by the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, the program allows local professionals to work with business leaders to expand their network of contacts and resources, increase their breadth of community knowledge, and develop personal and professional leadership skills, a news release said.

This years graduates and the companies for whom they work are: Janet Aldred, JQ Designs; Julisa Alonso, KCT Credit Union; Nicole Altman, PetroChoice; Corey Battles, Battles Investment Group; Wendy Chen, Elgin Community College; Kari Christensen, Lamp Inc.; Danielle Conduff, Advocate Sherman Hospital; Karyn Garcia, Ascension St. Joseph-Elgin; Jason Gold, Fox Meadow Elementary School; Nick Halan, Hampton, Lenzini & Renwick Inc.

Also, Scott Jenkins, city of Elgin; Mario Keane, Office of State Rep. Matt Hanson, D-Montgomery; Karina Maksimova, Open Door Health Center of Illinois; Charmaine Marshall, Synergy Strategic Business Solutions; Denise Momodu, city of Elgin; Edgar Montes, Alignment Collaborative of Education; Renee Skrabacz, Elgin Community College; Emily Tyler, Food for Greater Elgin; Yadi Vargas, Corporate American Family Credit Union; Sarah Vetter, Gail Borden Public Library District; and Elizabeth Yurisich, Advocate Sherman Hospital.
EPA chooses people over utilities in rejection of Alabama coal ash plan. Is Georgia next?

The Environmental Protection Agency soundly rejected Alabamas plan to permit power plants to dispose of toxic coal ash on Thursday, a possible warning to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and Georgia Power.

For decades millions and millions of tons of the dirty an harmful coal power burning by-product, coal ash, has idled in ponds in unlined pits in Alabama and Georgia, threatening public health through groundwater contamination.

In 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency required state environmental agencies to manage utility coal ash clean-up permits.

This week, the EPA finalized its rejection of the Alabama Department of Environment (ADEM) permit application in August 2023.

ADEM outlined how Alabama Power would properly dispose of coal ash and ensure it doesnt leech into groundwater or surface water. But the EPA found the permit out of compliance with federal law.

The EPA received 4,700 public comments supporting the denial of this permit over the last several months and after considering these comments they are following through with the denial, according to SELC.

North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia have all moved at least two-thirds of their coal ash to lined landfills or recycled into concrete, according to Frank Holleman, senior lawyer at Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC).

Clean-up is happening in the Southeast, but Alabama is an outlier, Holleman said. ADEM is violating the law and not enforcing requirements with groundwater. They are not acting as protectors of people and clean water. They act as protectors of polluters, the utilities, but they have failed.

Ripple Effects to Georgia

Coal ash is full of dangerous and harmful substances like arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury. When sitting in an unlined water pond these toxins seep into groundwater and can cause cancer or other health issues.

Several lawsuits have been filed in Monroe County against utility giant Georgia Power. Georgia residents living near Georgia Powers Plant Scherer claim contamination from drinking water resulting in illness and in some one case death.

A lawsuit was filed in January by the father of a Juliette resident who died of breast cancer in 2021. The suit claims his daughter Jodi Carter, an Army veteran who lived in Juliette, died from exposure to contamination from radium, radon, gross alpha, gross beta, lead, and strontium after drinking and bathing in contaminated well water near the plant.

Georgia is unique in that the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) is one of only three states in the U.S. with the authority to implement its own coal ash permit program, on the condition that the states requirements are as strong as federal law.

But, like Alabama, Georgia suffers from many of the same problems that led to Alabamas plan being denied, including allowing coal ash to sit in groundwater in perpetuity even after closure, the Sierra Club of Georgia wrote in its press release.

Coal Ash pond at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant in Juliette.

In November, Georgia Powers Plant Hammond was permitted by the Georgia EPD to close the coal ash pond, but SELC and other critics said it violated the federal rule of leaving ash in contact with groundwater. Here is the Plant Hammond plan

This permit denial in Alabama now sends a message, a clear signal to Georgia, the Sierra Club Georgia said.

The Georgia EPD should take notice of the EPAs decision and force utilities like Georgia Power to comply with federal regulations, and if it doesnt, the EPA should revoke the EPDs authority to approve these permits, Gina Webber, Sierra Club Georgia Chapter Director said in a statement.

All of the unlined pits in Georgia (except for Plant Scherer near Macon) are upstream of the Chattahoochee.

Communities around Newnan, Macon, and Rome are still being subject to this risk of pollution and possible catastrophic failure, Holleman said. If [adequate clean up] can be done in South Carolina and North Carolina, it can be done in Georgia. Its time to finish the job in Georgia which has been left out of protection by Georgia Power.

A view of Georgia Powers Plant Scherer from Luther Smith Road.
Jenna Carr, a travel blogger and young mother from the UK who runs The Travel Mum TikTok and YouTube channel, showed how to save money on luggage while traveling. She presented a life hack that will help to fit all the family's clothes for a two-week vacation into a backpack and a suitcase for hand luggage. To do this, you need to pack things with a pump and a bag. Importantly, clothes and hygiene products should be taken only for a week, and then, if necessary, hand-wash the clothes.

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According to the Daily Mail, Carr shares her secrets of traveling on a budget. In order not to take a lot of bags, the first thing you need to do is make a list of must-have items to take with you (to watch the video, scroll to the bottom of the page).

A small suitcase, which should be the same size as a carry-on bag, can fit just over 60 items for three people. The British woman took a few T-shirts, socks, underwear, a swimsuit, shorts, jeans to wear to the airport, three casual dresses and one evening dress. She took a jumper and two overalls for her child, and pants and two business shirts for her husband to wear out.

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Carr recommends taking flip-flops and versatile sandals or sneakers for long walks and evening outings. That is something that takes up less space. Preference should be given to black or neutral colors. This way, it will go well with most of your outfits.

To save space, the blogger rolls her clothes into a tube, dividing them into sections, for example, she puts T-shirts separately from shorts.

The rolls of clothes can be placed in a bag and vacuum-packed with a pump to make even more space in the suitcase.

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In her husband's backpack, Carr puts digital devices and technology, cosmetics, wipes, and liquids in 100-milliliter containers. She advises taking only those hygiene products that would be difficult or expensive to replace upon arrival.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will allocate over 650,000 euros in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, primarily to support the educational system in frontline areas and assist children affected by the war.



Part of the aid will be distributed through Estonian nonprofit organization Eesti Pagulasabi, where the focus will be on improving living conditions in vulnerable regions and aiding Ukrainian refugees in Georgia.



Additionally, nonprofit organization Mondo will use part of the funds to organize summer camps and provide mental health support for children in Zaporizhzhia.



Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized Estonia's commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing Russian attacks, which have caused significant civilian casualties and displacement.



Daily attacks, including in Kharkiv Oblast in recent weeks, have led to the deaths of civilians, the destruction of buildings, and the forced displacement of thousands of vulnerable people from their homes. It is our duty to support them in every possible way, she said.



Estonia has been among Kyiv's staunchest supporters since the start of the full-scale invasion began, offering humanitarian, developmental, and military assistance. In January, Estonia allocated 14 million euros ($15.2 million) in development aid for Ukraine to be disbursed annually.



Estonia's defense contributions to Ukraine have amounted to around 500 million euros ($550 million) since the start of the full-scale war, which is around 1.4% of the country's GDP.

Read also: Ombudsman: 13 more children return to Ukraine from Russia with Qatars assistance

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna speaks to media upon his arrival to attend the Informal Meeting of EU Foreign Affairs Ministers (Gymnich). Johannes Frandsen/European Council/dpa

Estonia has summoned the charge d'affaires of the Russian embassy in Tallinn over the removal of buoys marking the fairway in the Narva River which separates the two countries.

During the conversation on Friday, Moscow's diplomat was given to understand that such steps were "provocative and unacceptable," according to Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna.

Estonia is demanding an explanation for the removal of the border markers and their immediate return.

On Thursday night, Russian border guards removed 24 buoys floating in the Narva River, which had been used by Estonia to mark the shipping route.

The Narva forms the borderline between the two neighbouring countries and also marks the eastern external border of the EU and NATO.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  The eternal flame of the French nation arrived in New York on Thursday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the World War II Normandy landings of 1944.

The visit of the eternal flame is a sign of gratitude from France. It is a way to say thank you to the United States for storming Normandy Beach, which laid the groundwork for the victory of Allied forces in World War II.

New Jersey veterans surprised with medals for their service

The bond between the two nations transcends borders and time, stemming from the days of the American Revolutionary War.



Today, we all gather here to celebrate and honor this friendship as we welcome the eternal flame of liberty, a beacon of a brighter future, said Laurent Bill, the ambassador of France to the United States.



The eternal flames arrival in New York commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day. On June 6, 1944, allied troops from the United States, U.K., and other countries landed at Normandy, France, which at the time was occupied by nazi Germany.

Let us remember French, American, British, and many other soldiers that fought together in the name of freedom and democracy, the ambassador added.

The flame has been burning since November 11th, 1923, at the tomb of the unknown soldier under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It arrived on the Queen Mary II after a seven-day North Atlantic crossing, escorted by young French citizens, most under 23 years old.



Edward Mermelstein, the commissioner for international affairs for the city of New York, attended the ceremony.

The eternal flames are a sentimental symbol of remembrance and reverence of our fallen soldiers, Mermelstein said.

The visit also aims to foster and strengthen diplomatic relationships.

Sharing this flame with the United States as it travels from the United Kingdom sends a new message across the Atlantic, said Laurent Bill.

The flame will now travel to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where it will rest until June 6.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
The European Union expects Russia to explain the removal of buoys on the Estonian-Russian border on the Narva River and demands that they be immediately returned to their place.

Source: statement by EU diplomat Josep Borrell, European Union foreign policy chief, on Friday, European Pravda reports

Details: Borrell stressed that early on Thursday morning, Russian border guards unilaterally removed the light buoys installed by Estonia on the Narva River to demarcate the border with Russia.

Borrell said the European Union has been closely monitoring the situation since its beginning, in cooperation and solidarity with Estonia and other member states.

Quote: "This border incident is part of a broader pattern of provocative behaviour and hybrid actions by Russia, including on its maritime and land borders in the Baltic Sea region. Such actions are unacceptable. The European Union expects an explanation by Russia about the removal of the buoys, and their immediate return," Borrell said.

The Estonian Border Guard Service reported that Russian border guards have removed more than 20 buoys installed to mark territorial waters on the Narva River.

The buoys help to prevent vessels from accidentally entering Russian inland waters.

Russian Charge d'Affaires in Estonia Lenar Salimullin was summoned to the Estonian Foreign Ministry over the incident.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina condemned the actions of Russian border guards, while Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen called Russia's actions an unfriendly act.

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A view of the EU Competitiveness Ministers Council meeting. The Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence - also known as the European Supply Chain Act - is intended to hold large companies accountable if they profit from child or forced labour outside the EU. Alexandros Michailidis/European Council/dpa

Ministers for the European Union's member states on Friday gave their final approval to a much fought-over law requiring companies to protect human rights in their supply chains.

The Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence - also known as the European Supply Chain Act - is intended to hold large companies accountable if they profit from child or forced labour outside the EU.

EU, non-EU and parent companies with turnover of more than 450 million ($487 million) and at least 1,000 employees are subject to the regulation and will be liable for damages as well fines for non-compliance.

For example, if large fashion companies have their clothes sewn by children in Asia, the victims of such exploitation will in future be able to claim compensation under the new legislation.

No member states voted against the law, but 10 abstained, including Germany. Getting the law over the line took considerable diplomatic effort. It was particularly controversial within Germany's coalition government, where the liberal Free Democratic Party feared overburdening businesses.

An initial deal with the European Parliament, brokered last year by Spain, failed to get enough support from member states. The new deal approved on Friday was negotiated by Belgium. It raises the threshold at which companies will fall under the new rules.

Nevertheless, the law only just secured enough support among member states to pass.

Germany, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Hungary, Malta, Austria and Slovakia all abstained.

The other 17 member states - representing 68.41% of the EU's population - voted in favour. Most types of EU law need the support of at least 15 member states representing 65% of the population to pass.

The law will come into effect gradually over a five-year period, affecting larger companies earlier, starting with those that have more than 5,000 employees and 1.5 billion in annual revenue.

The European Parliament approved the legislation on April 24.

A view of the EU Competitiveness Ministers Council meeting. The Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence - also known as the European Supply Chain Act - is intended to hold large companies accountable if they profit from child or forced labour outside the EU. Francois Lenoir/European Council/dpa
A view of the EU Competitiveness Ministers Council meeting. The Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence - also known as the European Supply Chain Act - is intended to hold large companies accountable if they profit from child or forced labour outside the EU. Francois Lenoir/European Council/dpa

Ministers for the European Union's member states on Friday gave their final approval to a much fought-over law requiring companies to protect human rights in their supply chains.

The Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence - also known as the European Supply Chain Act - is intended to hold large companies accountable if they profit from child or forced labour outside the EU.

No member states voted against the law, but 10 abstained, including Germany. Getting the law over the line took considerable diplomatic effort. It was particularly controversial within Germany's coalition government, where the liberal Free Democratic Party feared overburdening businesses.

An initial deal with the European Parliament, brokered last year by Spain, failed to get enough support from member states. The new deal approved on Friday, negotiated by Belgium, raises the threshold at which companies will fall under the new rules.

A view of the EU Competitiveness Ministers Council meeting. The Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence - also known as the European Supply Chain Act - is intended to hold large companies accountable if they profit from child or forced labour outside the EU. Alexandros Michailidis/European Council/dpa
European High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell said Russia's decision to remove buoys marking its international border with Estonia was "unacceptable." File Photo by John Thys/EPA-EFE

May 24 (UPI) -- The European Union and NATO on Friday conemned Russia's removal of buoys along a waterway marking its international border with Estonia.

"Such actions are unacceptable. The European Union expects an explanation by Russia about the removal of the buoys, and their immediate return," the EU High Representative Josep Borrell said in a statement, in response to Russia's operation along the Narva River.

Russian border guards on Thursday removed 24 of 50 buoys placed by Estonia on the 48-mile river, marking sailing routes on the international boundary with Russia.

Estonia is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said he spoke with Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, saying the bloc stands "in solidarity" with the nation "against any threat" to its sovereignty.

The Narva River flows north into the Baltic Sea and is the largest in Estonia in terms of discharge.

Secretary General of NATO Jens Stoltenberg on Friday pledged the organization's full support of Estonia, which is a NATO member. File Photo courtesy of the Ukrainian President Press Office

The current border was established in 1985.

Earlier in the week, Russia announced it was entertaining a unilateral redrawing of its border in the Baltic Sea. It later deleted the posting without further explanation.

"This border incident is part of a broader pattern of hybrid actions by Russia, including on its maritime and land borders in the Baltic Sea region," Borrell said.

Russia's proposal was based on the idea that the nautical charts used to establish the border are now out of use.

"Estonia's response remains calm and clear-eyed," the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement issued Thursday.

"We treat this as a provocative border incident. We will communicate with the Russian Federation through our border representatives and diplomatic channels that such actions are unacceptable, and demand an explanation about the removal of the buoys and their immediate return."
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - EU governments agreed on Friday to put nine Iranian entities, including Iran's Defence Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani, on its sanctions list for supplying drones to Russia, which Moscow uses in its war against Ukraine, EU diplomats said.

The agreement, struck among ambassadors of EU governments in Brussels, called the COREPER, will be made public after endorsement by EU foreign ministers meeting on Monday.

"The COREPER agreed with 9 listings under the Iran Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Some technical details are still being worked out, but (EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep) Borrell will announce the political agreement at Foreign Affairs Council on Monday," one diplomat said.

A second diplomat confirmed that Iran's Defence Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani was on the agreed sanctions list.

The sanctions include travel bans for individuals, asset freeze for individuals and entities and a prohibition on making funds or economic resources available to those listed.

(Reporting by Jan Strupczewski; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta)
Euclid space telescope reveals more than 300,000 new objects in 1st 24 hours of observations (photos)

The European Space Agencys (ESA) Euclid space telescope's first five science images of our cosmos have been revealed, and they're absolutely stunning.

The images  taken during just 24 hours of observation  show twinkling galaxy clusters, colorful wisps of gas clouds and one of the largest-known spiral galaxies in unprecedented levels of detail.

By capturing thousands of images like these for the next six years, the space telescope will catalog a third of the entire night sky and image more than a billion galaxies that are up to 10 billion years old, according to ESA.

"This space telescope intends to tackle the biggest open questions in cosmology," Valeria Pettorino , a Euclid project scientist, said in a statement . "And these early observations clearly demonstrate that Euclid is more than up to the task."

Launched into orbit on July 1, 2023, Euclid was designed to compile wide-lens images to help scientists hunt for two of the universe's most mysterious components: dark matter and dark energy.

Related: Mysterious 'Green Monster' lurking in James Webb photo of supernova remnant is finally explained

Researchers think dark matter and dark energy together make up about 95% of the universe, but they do not interact with light so can't be detected directly. Instead, scientists study these mysterious components by observing the way they interact with the visible universe around them: Dark matter can be seen by observing its gravitational warping effects on galaxies; and dark energy in the force propelling the universe's runaway expansion.

By collecting images across its enormous field of view, Euclid will help scientists to detect the telltale clues of warped matter by creating two maps  one of the gravitational lensing of galaxies that could reveal dark matter, and the other of matter shock waves called baryon acoustic oscillations that can measure dark energy.

But besides having immense scientific value, Euclid's images are also stunning. Here's our guide to the five released on Thursday (May 23).

Abell 2390 and Abell 2764

A vast field of twinkling stars is seen in this crisp Euclid Space Telescope image

Euclid's first image is of the galaxy cluster Abell 2390, a gigantic grouping of 50,000 galaxies located inside the Pegasus constellation 2.7 billion light-years from Earth. The image features "intracluster light" from stars ripped out of their parent galaxies and beaming as lone lanterns in interstellar space. By measuring the warping of light around immense galaxies such as this, Euclid can help reveal the quantity and distribution of invisible dark matter across the universe.

bright stars shine in the vastness of space

Another image, of the galaxy cluster Abell 2764 that's located 1 billion light-years from Earth in the Phoenix constellation, shows hundreds of galaxies held within a halo of dark matter, with some galaxies spiraling around each other.

Messier 78

Stunning purple and orange clouds in a vast field of space

This stunning image of the star nursery Messier 78, located 1,300 light-years away within the constellation Orion, shows stars forming between vibrant tendrils of gas and dust. More than 300,000 new objects were revealed by Euclid's powerful infrared eye in this image, including baby stars and ejected rogue planets .

NGC 6744

A perfect spiral galaxy in a field of stars

This image shows the massive spiral galaxy NGC 6744, situated 30 million light-years away within the Local Group  the super-group of more than 20 tight-knit galaxies to which the Milky Way belongs. Euclid's image captured a previously undetected dwarf galaxy orbiting its larger neighbor. By studying this region, scientists hope to understand how stars form within galaxies and discover the role that spiral structures play in this process.

The Dorado Group

several bright galaxies veer toward collision

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The final image showcases the Dorado Group, a collection of galaxies 62 million light-years away in the constellation Dorado. These sparring galaxies are locked in a complex dance, at the end of which they will collide with each other and merge.

The five images are part of Euclid's early release observations, and they will be joined by many more images in the coming years.

"They give just a hint of what Euclid can do," Pettorino said. "We are looking forward to six more years of data to come!"
Summer will bring many vivid emotions and unforgettable experiences, astrologers say. June begins under the sign of Gemini, which symbolizes prosperity, prospects, and communication. The Gemini season is a time for fun, travel, realization of creative ideas, and opening new horizons.

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According to the forecast, June 3, when Jupiter triggers Pluto, will be one of the most successful days. And the day of the summer solstice will bring inspiration for the realization of creative ideas.

Aries

June will encourage the realization of new ideas. For example, if you've long dreamed of writing a book or posting your song on social media, now is the time. Mars enters your house of stability and foundation on June 9, helping you make long-term progress in something you've put your heart into. This will bring you a sense of satisfaction and security.

Taurus

Although you usually favor safe financial decisions (with the occasional splurge), the Gemini New Moon will enter your 2nd house of resources, inspiring you to seek out new sources of income. You will feel the strength and stamina to climb the ladder to success. In terms of relationships, you may feel restless because of a sudden crush  all previous plans will go awry.

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Gemini

With Jupiter in your sign, it's the perfect time to map out fantastic storylines that will make the journey worth all the effort. Pay attention to the Jupiter-Pluto trine on the 3rd, as it offers a chance to change something important in your life. It's time to make decisions that will have a long-term impact on the future.

Cancer.

The first half of June will be somewhat unstable. It seems that the more you try to clear the fog, the thicker it gets. Avoid making bold decisions until Mercury enters your sign on June 17. If you're looking for deeper intimacy in your relationships, the Capricorn Full Moon will help improve understanding.

Leo

The first half of the month will be filled with friendships, meetings, and spontaneous invitations. It's time to get away from all the difficulties and just enjoy the everyday moments of happiness. If your work schedule gets hectic, don't worry  Mars will enter your career house on the 9th, giving you a boost to your success.

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Virgo

In the first half of June, you'll be focused on your goals and ambitions, but be careful not to exhaust yourself. You'll be clear about a new dream for your career. It's time to make long-term plans. Suddenly you may realize how much you have outgrown your old friends. You will want to engage in intellectual, deep communication.

Libra

June will be a month of reflection and introspection for you. Devote time to studying, reading books, creativity, and self-development. You never know what ideas you can get from hearing different points of view. At the end of the month, it's worth channeling your new knowledge and experience into real projects or goals. Invest in your professional connections and knowledge.

Scorpio

The New Moon in Gemini will influence your house of transformation and empowerment. Squat your shoulders and hold your head high. Mars moves into Taurus on June 9, helping you to be clear about the types of collaborations that reflect your values. Be assertive about your needs and boundaries in relationships to ensure that your collaboration is mutually beneficial.

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Sagittarius

A dynamic and very active first half of June awaits you. Get ready for a busy schedule. It's important to prioritize your time so you don't feel exhausted. The New Moon in Gemini on the 9th allows you to reboot your approach to relationships. The Cancer season activates the deeper layers of your psyche, bringing to the surface emotions and experiences that can speed up the healing process.

Capricorn

Now is the time to reconsider your approach to work. As work habits lose their edge over time, you may notice a decline in efficiency during the first two weeks, but you have the opportunity to fix it. Take the opportunity to experiment with your daily schedule.

Aquarius

With Jupiter recently moving into your house of creativity, your innovative ideas are ready to soar to new heights. You'll be able to put your plans into action without hesitation. Mercury in Gemini can make you feel like you're moving in circles but don't take any hasty steps. In the second half of the month, it's crucial to ground your mind and body. Consider taking a vacation.

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Pisces

This summer encourages you to look for a sense of home in secret places, follow your heart, and explore new territories. Astrologers advise you to look for inspiration in nature. These experiences will broaden your horizons in ways beyond your imagination. Plan at least a small trip out of town for the weekend.

Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
The European housing crisis warping millennial life: The average Croatian lives with parents until 33

The average Croatian leaves their parents' home at 33 years old  the highest age in the EU.

It's expensive for young people to buy or rent in Croatia. BI visited Dubrovnik to investigate.

Millennials there described feeling like teens in their 30s, despite being business owners and parents.

Luksa Malohodzic is 27 and runs a successful business  life ought to be going his way. But he still lives with his mom and dad.

He runs boat tours for wealthy tourists showing off the stunning Adriatic coast  keenly aware that he can't afford life there.

Like vast numbers of Croatian millennials, he's yet to fly the nest, and doesn't see it happening soon.

Seated at a cafe in Dubrovnik's Old Town in mid-April, he reflected on the situation.

"There comes a point where it starts to weigh on you," he said. "You begin to think, 'I really ought to change this,' but what can you do?"

According to Eurostat, the EU statistical office, the average Croatian leaves their parents' home at over 33 years of age, its highest figure.

For men, it's even higher  at just under 35.

Dubrovnik's Old Town, viewed from the city walls. Joshua Zitser/Business Insider

In the US, almost everyone has moved out by then. US census figures say only 16% of Americans aged 25-34 live with parents.

BI visited Croatia in April, the start of Dubrovnik's tourism season, to hear firsthand how it's affecting millennials there.

They spoke of feeling stuck and infantilized: a woman of 35 whose relatives keep reading her mail, a grown man whose grandma kept track of his dating.

Based on the data, Malohodzic can expect to live under his parents' roof for another seven years, but it could be even longer.

"It's hard to buy anything or even rent," Malohodzic said. "It's just crazy."

Eurostat notes that house prices in Croatia have consistently climbed over the past decade. Last year, Croatia had the highest annual increase in the house price index among all EU member states.

Malohodzic says a "big majority" of his friends are in the same situation as he is, with only a fortunate few having inherited properties.

Property prices in Dubrovnik, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site, are especially high.

According to news outlet Total Croatia, the average purchase price for an apartment or house in the city is slightly above 3,600 euros per square meter, equivalent to roughly $335 a square foot.

The US figure is roughly $230 a square foot, with much bigger salaries to buy it.

The average salary in the US is more than triple Croatia's, $59,000 or so to $18,500 in Croatia.

Ivan Vukovic, a tour guide, sits at a cafe in Dubrovnik. Joshua Zitser/Business Insider

"You can't make the kind of money here that you need to buy properties," says Ivan Vukovic, a tour guide who has lived in Dubrovnik since he was born in 1981.

Vukovic has lived through Dubrovnik's various transformations over the years  from the bustling crowds during the Yugoslav tourism boom of the mid-1980s, to the devastation of the War of Independence and the subsequent return of cruise ships in the postwar era.

Today, he finds himself part of another tourism boom  fueled by tourists eager to see the city that served as King's Landing in HBO's "Game of Thrones."

Dubrovnik was the main filming location in Croatia for King's Landing, featured in HBO's "Game of Thrones." Joshua Zitser/Business Insider

While tourism brings economic opportunities for Vukovic and many others, he says it has also worsened the already dysfunctional housing market.

The surge in foreigners wanting a slice of Dubrovnik has driven up the demand for vacation homes, he said, and local entrepreneurs are increasingly flipping properties into Airbnbs to make money.

AirDNA, a short-term rental data analytics company, told BI that Dubrovnik, which has a population of about 41,000, has more than 5,500 properties listed on Airbnb or the Expedia-owned Vrbo during the summer months.

"Both foreigners and wealthy locals mainly use these properties as investments because the return is very good," Filip Brkan, a member of the Real Estate Business Association of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, told BI.

For renters, this can make finding a place for the whole year nearly impossible. The money that can be made from short-term rentals also drives up the price of buying vacant properties.

"What needs to be done in Croatia is to increase the housing supply," said Brkan.

But in parts of Dubrovnik, Vukovic explained, that's not feasible.

"We cannot expand," the tour guide said. "It's a small city protected by UNESCO, and the price has skyrocketed because somebody always wants to buy real estate in Dubrovnik."

Dubrovnik, viewed from the Old Town's walls. Joshua Zitser/Business Insider

For Josip Crncevic, 34, prices feel far out of reach.

"I always like to tell my guests on the tour that, right now, it will probably take two lifetimes to buy something within the walls," he said.

Even in Dubrovnik's suburbs, Crncevic said homeownership is unattainable for him.

For now, he lives in a multi-generation, three-story family house about seven miles outside the city.

His uncle's family lives on the top floor and his grandmother below, in a setup Crncevic describes as three distinct apartments, each with a private entrance and lock.

While it's not the situation he dreamt he'd been in at 34, he said there are some positives.

Crncevic enjoys helping his grandmother with daily tasks, though the proximity has posed challenges in the past, especially when it comes to dating.

"My grandmother is the best CCTV in the area," he said.

Establishing boundaries

Privacy is a recurring issue for many millennials living in similar conditions in Croatia.

Marija, a 35-year-old who asked to be referred to only by her first name in order to speak candidly about living with her in-laws, said the decision was born of necessity.

Marija and her husband moved into his parents' home in 2019 because they couldn't find affordable rent, and buying was not an option.

Although it seemed like a sound financial move, Marija said she now views it as a big mistake.

"We would like to have some kind of privacy, and not to be interrogated on a daily basis," she said.

The biggest problem is establishing boundaries "like not reading our mail and not entering the home without knocking," she added.

Sanja Cikato, a 47-year-old who lives with her husband and two teenage children above her mother, said setting those boundaries took patience and perseverance.

Sanja Cikato with her husband, Angelo, on the terrace of their Dubrovnik home. Joshua Zitser/Business Insider

"It wasn't perfect in the beginning, but later, with time, we simply learned how to live together in this house," she said.

Cikato said achieving this required open and honest conversations, but that her mother still occasionally eavesdrops on the couple's quarrels.

Despite the difficulties, she said the benefits, such as help with childcare, outweigh the drawbacks.

When her children, now 12 and 14, were younger, her mother was a live-in babysitter, enabling Cikato to work longer hours during the tourist season.

Diana Marlais, another working parent, echoed this, telling BI that multi-generational living is a life-saver for working parents.

Bogdan Dascalescu, Diana Marlais, their children, and her parents spend the evening together in their home. Joshua Zitser/Business Insider

Cikato also said the setup creates a special bond between her mom and her kids, and that she wants to replicate it when her own children are adults.

"You have to understand that was something really normal before," she said.

But Malohodzic, who represents the younger cohort of Croatian millennials, sees it as being "purely economic" rather than a tradition worth upholding.

He said he wouldn't choose to live this way if finances weren't such a factor.

He wouldn't choose to be in his late 20s and to still "sometimes feel like a teenager."

Read the original article on Business Insider
DENVER (KDVR)  A federal grand jury in Colorado indicted a Miami-based businessman on four counts of wire fraud after he allegedly obtained COVID-19 relief loans by falsely representing his businesses.

Amin Suliaman, 47, was indicted on four counts of wire fraud and made his initial court appearance on May 14 in Miami. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado publicized the indictment in a press release on Thursday.

Federal prosecutors say Suliaman requested COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the Small Business Administration, which were designed to help Americans experiencing financial hardships because of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the May 7 indictment, Suliaman is accused of obtaining $450,000 by falsely representing his businesses.

Colorados lieutenant governor admitted to hospital

This included making statements to the SBA that he had employees for various businesses he owned, but conversely reporting to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and Internal Revenue Service that he did not collect any revenue, have any employees or issue any wages.

The indictment alleges that some of Suliamans businesses used to certify loans were not even in operation, and he had sold the properties. According to the release, Suliaman owned or co-owned several Colorado-based businesses, including Nativ Denver, the Nativ Hotel Group, The Loft Brokers Inc., Wazee Group LLC and KDA Properties, among others.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Suliaman began to request the COVID-19 loans in August 2020 and continued until around May 2022.

Future court dates will be in Colorado, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Each of the four counts was cited to specific dates in the indictment, ranging from Nov. 13, 2020, to May 22, 2022.

The Justice Department is suing Ticketmaster and Live Nation. What does that mean for concertgoers?

The U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado was selected in July 2023 by the U.S. Attorney General to lead one of five national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The teams focus on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations or transnational actors, in addition to groups that committed multiple instances of pandemic relief fraud, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

Anyone with information about attempted COVID-19 fraud can report it by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or online through the NCDF Complaint Form.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Ex-US Marines fighter pilot loses bid to block extradition to the United States over China training allegations

The fate of former US Marines pilot Daniel Duggan now rests with Australias attorney general after a magistrate ruled he was eligible to be extradited to the United States to face charges related to the alleged training of Chinese military pilots.

After a short hearing on Friday, Magistrate Daniel Reiss found that Duggan met the conditions for extradition and ordered him to be moved to prison while lawyers for the US wait for Attorney General Mark Dreyfus to approve his removal.

Duggan has 15 days to seek a review of the order, which comes 19 months after his arrest in rural New South Wales, just weeks after returning from China to join his family in Australia.

Duggans wife Saffrine stood outside court with their six children, as she appealed to the Australian authorities to intervene.

We are absolutely heartbroken and still dont understand how this could be happening to us, she said as supporters held up signs saying Free Dan Duggan.

My husband is a good man, a great father, a wonderful friend and husband. He faces no Australian charges and has no criminal background whatsoever. Yet he is locked up by the say-so of the United States government, she added.

She described Fridays hearing as simply about ticking boxes.

Now, we respectfully ask the attorney general to take another look at this case and bring my husband home.

Saffrine Duggan (center) speaks to media prior to her husband's extradition hearing at Downing Centre Local Court, in Sydney, May 24, 2024. - Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image/Reuters

A 2017 indictment alleges Duggan trained Chinese military pilots between November 2009 and November 2012, when he was still a US citizen. Duggan met his Australian wife in 2011 and took Australian citizenship the following year.

The indictment said that as early as 2008, Duggan received an email from the US State Department telling him he was required to register with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls and apply for permission to train a foreign air force.

Instead, it claims he conspired with others  including the Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA)  to export defense services in violation of an arms embargo on China.

In a statement to CNN in 2023, TFASA said it complies with the laws of every jurisdiction in which it operates.

The statement said Duggan undertook one test-pilot contract for the company in South Africa between November and December 2012, and never worked for TFASA on any of its training mandates in China.

Duggan maintains the students he trained were Chinese civilians, including plane enthusiasts and people with ambitions within the civilian aviation industry.

His supporters believe hes been caught up in geopolitics during a time of strained relations between the United States and China and have accused authorities of using him to send a message to former military personnel.

Fridays hearing at Downing Centre Local Court was delayed for almost an hour due to protests that required the proceedings to be moved to a smaller courtroom that became so crowded that some members of the public sat on the floor.

Further delays occurred after Reiss asked the floor-sitters to leave the room, warning that anyone who didnt hold their tongue could be prosecuted for contempt of court.

A spokesperson for the Australian attorney general said the government doesnt comment on extradition matters.

Under Australias Extradition Act, Duggan is entitled to appeal directly to the attorney general as to why he shouldnt be sent to the US.

There is no set time period for the attorney general to make a decision, but by law it should be made as soon as practicable.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
From the The Collision on The Dispatch

Another week, another Collision. With Donald Trumps first criminal trialthe hush-money case in Manhattanwinding down, well walk you through how well the prosecution made its case as the jury could start deliberating as early as next week. Plus, well get into a bit of this weeks deadly force controversywhich means were running pretty long this week. For that reason, well skip the Docket.

Did the Prosecution Prove Its Case Against Donald Trump?

Former President Donald Trump appears in court with attorneys Emil Bove (left) and Todd Blanche for his hush money trial on May 21, 2024, in New York City. (Photo by Mark Peterson  Pool/Getty Images)

Both the prosecution and the defense have rested their cases, closing the evidentiary portion of the former presidents criminal trial. Lets examine the evidence the jury will weigh when it moves into deliberations next week following closing arguments.

Remember, the jury does not decide legal questions, such as whether paying hush money to a porn star is a federal crime, or whether a state prosecutor can use an uncharged federal crime to prove his case, or whether Trumps gag order was prejudicial, or whether Stormy Daniels very detailed testimony was a problem. Those are all questions for an appellate court if Trump is convicted. Its also worth pointing out that if all 12 jurors decide that Trump is not guilty, thats the end. The prosecution doesnt get to appeal, nor does it get to try him again.

If jurors come back after hours or days and say they are unable to reach a unanimous verdict, the judge may tell them to deliberate longer. This itself is controversial because it means the judge is putting his thumb on the scale one way or the other. Regardless, if the jury cannot reach a unanimous verdict, the judge will eventually declare a mistrial. In that case, the prosecution can refile charges and do this all over again. But more often than not, thats the end and the case simply goes away.

As weve said before, to find Trump guilty, every juror must agree the evidence proved beyond a reasonable doubt that:

The business records regarding payments to Trump attorney Michael Cohen were false; Trump was responsible for the false business records and had the intent to defraud (as in, he knew the records were false and didnt want other people potentially reading the records to know the true nature of the payments); and Trumps purpose for falsifying the business records was to cover up another crime.

Lets walk through each of those claims and the evidence presented at trial in more detail and you can decide whether the prosecution met its burden.

Claim 1: The business records were false.

The reimbursement payments made to Cohen were listed as legal services in the internal Trump business books. Cohen was a lawyer and its not a problem if a law firm, for example, hires an expert witness for your trial and bills it back to you as an expense for legal services. So to prove this element, the prosecution needed to show that Cohen was not acting as an attorney for Trump or the Trump Organization when he paid Stormy Daniels and that the payment from Trump to Cohenwhich is the source of the business recordwas not in any way for legal services.

Heres the evidence: Multiple witnesses, starting with former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker and including Cohen himself, testified about the nature of the catch-and-kill relationship between the Republican candidate and the tabloid. The Enquirer would pay a subject with damaging information about Trump for the rights to that subjects story, and in exchange Trumps team would provide the tabloid with damaging stories on his rivals in the 2016 GOP primary.

Pecker also testified that while he had paid to keep another woman, Karen McDougal, quiet about her alleged affair with Trump, he was unwilling to pay for Daniels story in October 2016 and suggested Trump and Cohen pay to keep Daniels quiet. Daniels lawyer, Keith Davidson, also testified that he ended up negotiating with Cohen for the $130,000 payment. Cohen confirmed that he paid the money to Davidson with the agreement that Daniels would not share the story of her relationship with Trump publicly. He expected to be reimbursed for that payment by Trump and the Trump Organization.

The jury heard, in painstaking detail, all of the internal accounting maneuvers that resulted in Cohen receiving his reimbursement from Trump himself over a series of installments. The Trump Organizations records and check stubs indicated the payments were for services rendered under a legal retainer, though Cohen and former Trump Organization accounting employees testified there was no retainer and the payments were reimbursements for the hush money.

This was perhaps the easiest factual hurdle for the prosecution to clear, and the multitude of evidence suggests as much. Its why the defense did little to rebut this specific element, focusing instead on casting doubt on Cohens credibility as a witness.

Claim 2: Trump was responsible.

Of course, its not enough to show that somebody misrepresented the payments in the Trump Organizations books. The prosecution needed to demonstrate that Trump directed someone to write legal services (or just not payment to Stormy Daniels) in the books and that he knew the payments to Cohen werent for legal services.

Prosecutors relied heavily on Cohens own testimony to demonstrate that Trump knew exactly what he was asking his fixer to do: pay off Daniels. Jeff McConney, a former Trump Organization controller, testified that Cohen eventually got reimbursed by the Trump Organization in an arrangement with executive Allen Weisselberg. And McConney and longtime Trump accountant Deb Tarasoff testified that Trump was well aware of the purpose of the checks to Cohen he was personally signingall of which could meet the prosecutions threshold on this point. Furthermore the witnesses, particularly Tarasoff, provided testimony that Trump was very attentive to this particular set of checks because of the source of the money: his personal account.

But there could be some reasonable doubt that Trump knew about the inner workings of the books of the Trump Organization. The defense pointed out that McConney and Tarasoff were not privy to conversations between Trump and Cohen or Trump and Weisselberg about these payments, denying the prosecution had direct evidence Trump had actively or even passively assented to cooking the books.

Claim 3: Trump did it to cover up a crime.

To prove this element, the prosecution doesnt need to prove that Trump actually committed another crime. But it does need to prove that Trump thought he might have and thus wanted the false entry in the Trump Organization books.

Ideally, prosecutors would want an entry in Trumps diary that read:

Dear Diary, Its fun to be president. Thinking about bombing a few countries. Also, I cut that check to Cohen today to pay him back for the thing. It seems totally possible to me asking him to pay hush money to a porn star during a presidential election is a crime. Could be a campaign finance violation or maybe theres some tax implications Im not thinking through. Who knows! Better to be on the safe side and make sure that if any investigators start digging through my stuff, they dont find it, which is why I told that dude to write legal services instead of hush money payment reimbursement to Cohen in our corporate books. Xoxo, DJT

They dont have Trumps diary, but heres what the prosecution did show: that Trump was well aware of how Daniels revelations about their sexual encounter could upend his presidential campaign. Longtime Trump aide Hope Hicks testified about the climate of fear within the campaign in the final weeks before the 2016 election, when the release of the infamous Access Hollywood tape put Trumpworld on edge about what other shoes might drop.

That corroborates what other witnesses, from David Pecker to Michael Cohen, said they understood: Trump recognized that post-Access Hollywood, a story about him sleeping with a porn star would be devastating for his presidential campaign.

The question isnt whether the prosecution proved that Trump knew the story would be bad and subsequently pushed so hard to cover the story up. Did prosecutors show the jury that those actions, and the cover up of those actions by tallying his reimbursement payments to Cohen as legal services, were in service of covering up an electoral fraud crime?

This is the most difficult plank of the prosecutions case to prove, and it may rely entirely on how prosecutors sell that story in closing arguments. And its an element the defense also spent little time pressing, since the burden falls on the prosecution. Intent is a hard point to prove without that sort of diary confession we concocted above. The verdict hinges on this pointand after next week, that will be entirely in the jurys hands.

Trumpworld Runs With an Explosive Lie

On the site, Mike has a reported piece about a MAGA-world controversy that blew up this week. Thanks to another pretrial motion to dismiss the federal case about Trumps retention of classified documents, many of the former presidents most ardent supporters have latched onto some important but standard law enforcement language to accuse the Biden administration of, well, pretty much the worst.

Heres an extended excerpt, but be sure to read the whole thing:

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.
Heres how to exchange guns for gift cards at Sacramento Police Departments firearm buyback

If you have guns lying around, you could get gift cards this weekend through a gun buyback program under Sacramento Police Department.

The Police Department and Kaiser Permanente will provide a $50 Amazon gift card in exchange for functional firearms from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday at the Kinney Police Facility, 3550 Marysville Blvd.

The program aims to reduce gun violence and promote community safety while allowing residents to anonymously give up firearms, police said in a news release.

Officials will only accept three firearms per adult until gift cards last. Ammunition will not be accepted and guns must be unloaded, police said.

Residents are asked to bring a form of identification and stay inside their vehicle  no walk-ups allowed. Participants should store guns in the trunks of their vehicles, police said.

We reserve the right to limit gift cards an individual may receive regardless of the number/type of firearms surrendered, police said in the news release.

In years past, dozens of residents have lined up an hour before the event started. Police collected 128 firearms in May 2023. In October 2022, residents turned in 275 guns for a $50 Amazon gift card.
By Heekyong Yang and Fanny Potkin

SEOUL/SINGAPORE (Reuters) -Samsung Electronics' latest high bandwidth memory (HBM) chips have yet to pass Nvidia's tests for use in the U.S. firm's AI processors due to heat and power consumption problems, three people briefed on the issues said.

The problems affect Samsung's HBM3 chips, which are the fourth-generation HBM standard currently most used in graphics processing units (GPUs) for artificial intelligence, as well as fifth-generation HBM3E chips that the South Korean tech giant and its rivals are bringing to market this year, they said.

The reasons for Samsung failing Nvidia's tests are being reported for the first time.

Samsung said in a statement to Reuters that HBM is a customized memory product requiring "optimization processes in tandem with customers' needs," adding that it is in the process of optimizing its products through close collaboration with customers. It declined to comment on specific customers.

In separate statements after Reuters first published this report, Samsung said that "claims of failing due to heat and power consumption are not true," and that testing was "proceeding smoothly and as planned."

Nvidia declined to comment.

HBM - a type of dynamic random access memory or DRAM standard first produced in 2013 in which chips are vertically stacked to save space and reduce power consumption - helps process massive amounts of data produced by complex AI applications. As demand for sophisticated GPUs has soared amid the generative AI boom, so has demand for HBM.

Satisfying Nvidia - which commands around 80% of the global GPU market for AI applications - is seen as key to future growth for HBM manufacturers - both reputationally and in terms of profit momentum.

Samsung has been trying to pass Nvidia's tests for HBM3 and HBM3E since last year, the three sources said. According to two of the people, the results of a recent failed test for Samsung's 8-layer and 12-layer HBM3E chips came in April.

It was not immediately clear if the problems can be easily addressed, but the three sources said that the failures to meet Nvidia's requirements have increased concerns in the industry and among investors that Samsung could fall further behind rivals SK Hynix and Micron Technology in HBM.

The sources, two of whom were briefed on the matter by Samsung officials, spoke on condition of anonymity as the information was confidential.

Samsung's shares fell 2% in early Friday trade, slightly weaker than the broader market.

Story continues

NEW CHIP UNIT HEAD

In contrast to Samsung, domestic rival SK Hynix is the main supplier of HBM chips to Nvidia and has been supplying HBM3 since June 2022. It also began supplying HBM3E in late March to a customer it declined to identify. Shipments went to Nvidia, sources have said.

Micron, the only other major manufacturer of HBM, has also said it will supply Nvidia with HBM3E.

In a move that analysts said appeared to underscore Samsung's concerns about its laggard position in HBM, Samsung this week replaced the head of its semiconductor unit saying a new person at the top was needed to navigate what it called a "crisis" affecting the industry.

Market expectations have been high that Samsung, as the world's biggest maker of memory chips, would quickly pass Nvidia's tests, but it's also natural that specialised products like HBM will take some time to meet customers' performance evaluations, said Jeff Kim, head of research at KB Securities.

Although Samsung has yet to become a supplier of HBM3 to Nvidia, it does supply customers such as Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and is aiming to begin mass production of HBM3E chips in the second quarter. Samsung said in its statement to Reuters that its product schedule is proceeding as planned.

Analysts also say that SK Hynix, which developed the first HBM chip in 2013, has spent far more time and resources on HBM research and development than Samsung over the past decade, accounting for its technological edge.

Samsung said in its statement that it developed the first commercial HBM solution for high-performance computing in 2015 and has continued to invest in HBM since then.

GPU manufacturers like Nvidia and AMD are keen for Samsung to perfect its HBM chips so they can have more vendor options and weaken SK Hynix's pricing power, the sources also said.

At an Nvidia AI conference in March, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang signed a placard at Samsung's booth that said "Jensen approved" for Samsung's 12-layer HBM3E - underscoring the company's enthusiasm about the prospect of Samsung supplying those chips.

HBM3E chips are likely to become the mainstream HBM product in the market this year with shipments concentrated in the second half of 2024, according to research firm Trendforce.

Separately, SK Hynix estimates that demand for HBM memory chips in general could increase at an annual rate of 82% through 2027.

Analysts have said that Samsung's relatively weak position in HBM has been noticed by investors. Its shares are down 2% for the year to date, while SK Hynix's stock is up 42% and Micron's shares are up 48%.

($1 = 1,362.8600 won)

(Reporting by Heekyong Yang in Seoul and Fanny Potkin in Singapore; Additional reporting by Ju-min Park in Seoul and Max A. Cherney in San Francisco; Editing by Josh Smith and Edwina Gibbs)
Some provisions of the 2017 federal tax law expire at the end of next year, setting off debates about what changes to make to the tax code. (Photo by Douglas Sacha/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The race to harness the tax code is in full swing as economists and advocates across the political spectrum view the expiring Trump-era tax law as an opportunity to advance their economic priorities.

Democratic Rep. Suzan DelBene of Washington said Wednesday that reworking the tax code will be a reflection of what your values are.

DelBene, who sits on the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Tax Policy, said her priorities include modernizing the tax code, raising revenue via carbon fees on imported goods, and making permanent an expanded child tax credit akin to the temporary changes in place during the pandemic.

The top line is starting from what our values and goals are, and then looking at what the policies are that help us get there, DelBene said at a Politico-sponsored discussion on proposed tax law changes.

The early morning event at Washingtons Union Station brought together tax experts and advocates from Georgetown University Law Center, the Urban Institute, the Heritage Foundation and Groundwork Collaborative.

Tax overhaul

The massive tax overhaul ushered in under the Trump administration permanently cut the corporate tax rate to 21% from 35%. The 2017 law, championed by Republicans as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, also put in place several temporary measures for corporations and small businesses. Some are phasing out or already expired, including immediate deductions for certain investments.

Temporary changes for households included marginal tax rate cuts across the board, a doubling of the child tax credit, and a near doubling of the standard deduction  all of which are set to expire Dec. 31, 2025.

A bipartisan bill to temporarily extend the expiring business incentives and expand the child tax credit beyond 2025 sailed through the U.S. House in late January, but has been stalled by U.S. Senate Republicans who oppose some of the child tax credit expansion proposals.

A May 2024 nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office report estimated extending the tax cuts would cost roughly $4.6 trillion over 10 years. The bulk of the cost would stem from keeping in place individual tax cuts, according to an analysis of the report by the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Critics of the 2017 law point to a recent March analysis from academics and members of the Joint Committee on Taxation and the Federal Reserve that shows that the laws benefits flowed to the highest earners.

DelBene said revisiting the corporate tax rate, even on the Republican side, is on the table and lawmakers will be talking about where the TCJA wasnt about investing and making sure that we were being fiscally responsible.

Incredibly bullish

Lindsay Owens, executive director of the Groundwork Collaborative, said Wednesday shes incredibly bullish on elected officials making fundamental changes to the tax code next year.

The progressive think tank sent a letter Wednesday to House and Senate leadership and top tax writers urging them to use the expiration of these provisions as an opportunity to address long-standing problems with our tax code, not just to tinker around the edges.

The letter was signed by 100 organizations from across the U.S., ranging from the AFL-CIO and the United Auto Workers to the National Womens Law Center and United Church of Christ.

Stephen Moore, who helped write the Trump-era tax law and is now the conservative Heritage Foundations senior visiting fellow in economics, said the 2017 law was a huge success and that were gonna definitely make those tax cuts permanent.

Moore is an economic adviser for former President Donald Trumps reelection effort, but said he was not speaking on behalf of the presidential campaign.

He said he does not agree with Trump on everything, including a promise to enact 10% tariffs on imported goods, reaching as high as 60% on Chinese imports.

A tariff is just a consumption tax, he said. And so you know, I think that it is not a great policy, in my opinion. But if youre gonna have a tariff, I would rather have a tariff that is uniform than trying to have, like, a protectionist tariff to, you know, protect this industry or that industry.

When pressed on data that shows funding the Internal Revenue Service increases revenue, Moore said that President Joe Bidens increase in funding for the agency is diabolical.

The post Experts eye tax changes ahead of Trump-era cuts sunset appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Some provisions of the 2017 federal tax law expire at the end of next year, setting off debates about what changes to make to the tax code. (Photo by Douglas Sacha/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  The race to harness the tax code is in full swing as economists and advocates across the political spectrum view the expiring Trump-era tax law as an opportunity to advance their economic priorities.

Democratic Rep. Suzan DelBene of Washington said Wednesday that reworking the tax code will be a reflection of what your values are.

DelBene, who sits on the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Tax Policy, said her priorities include modernizing the tax code, raising revenue via carbon fees on imported goods, and making permanent an expanded child tax credit akin to the temporary changes in place during the pandemic.

The top line is starting from what our values and goals are, and then looking at what the policies are that help us get there, DelBene said at a Politico-sponsored discussion on proposed tax law changes.

The early morning event at Washingtons Union Station brought together tax experts and advocates from Georgetown University Law Center, the Urban Institute, the Heritage Foundation and Groundwork Collaborative.

Tax overhaul

The massive tax overhaul ushered in under the Trump administration permanently cut the corporate tax rate to 21% from 35%. The 2017 law, championed by Republicans as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, also put in place several temporary measures for corporations and small businesses. Some are phasing out or already expired, including immediate deductions for certain investments.

Temporary changes for households included marginal tax rate cuts across the board, a doubling of the child tax credit, and a near doubling of the standard deduction  all of which are set to expire Dec. 31, 2025.

A bipartisan bill to temporarily extend the expiring business incentives and expand the child tax credit beyond 2025 sailed through the U.S. House in late January, but has been stalled by U.S. Senate Republicans who oppose some of the child tax credit expansion proposals.

A May 2024 nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office report estimated extending the tax cuts would cost roughly $4.6 trillion over 10 years. The bulk of the cost would stem from keeping in place individual tax cuts, according to an analysis of the report by the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Critics of the 2017 law point to a recent March analysis from academics and members of the Joint Committee on Taxation and the Federal Reserve that shows that the laws benefits flowed to the highest earners.

DelBene said revisiting the corporate tax rate, even on the Republican side, is on the table and lawmakers will be talking about where the TCJA wasnt about investing and making sure that we were being fiscally responsible.

Incredibly bullish

Lindsay Owens, executive director of the Groundwork Collaborative, said Wednesday shes incredibly bullish on elected officials making fundamental changes to the tax code next year.

The progressive think tank sent a letter Wednesday to House and Senate leadership and top tax writers urging them to use the expiration of these provisions as an opportunity to address long-standing problems with our tax code, not just to tinker around the edges.

The letter was signed by 100 organizations from across the U.S., ranging from the AFL-CIO and the United Auto Workers to the National Womens Law Center and United Church of Christ.

Stephen Moore, who helped write the Trump-era tax law and is now the conservative Heritage Foundations senior visiting fellow in economics, said the 2017 law was a huge success and that were gonna definitely make those tax cuts permanent.

Moore is an economic adviser for former President Donald Trumps reelection effort, but said he was not speaking on behalf of the presidential campaign.

He said he does not agree with Trump on everything, including a promise to enact 10% tariffs on imported goods, reaching as high as 60% on Chinese imports.

A tariff is just a consumption tax, he said. And so you know, I think that it is not a great policy, in my opinion. But if youre gonna have a tariff, I would rather have a tariff that is uniform than trying to have, like, a protectionist tariff to, you know, protect this industry or that industry.

When pressed on data that shows funding the Internal Revenue Service increases revenue, Moore said that President Joe Bidens increase in funding for the agency is diabolical.

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The post Experts eye tax changes ahead of Trump-era cuts sunset appeared first on Ohio Capital Journal.
Experts raise concerns over unprecedented temperatures as cities buckle under heat wave: 'This was something exceptional'

It's only May, and scorching temperatures are already setting records in places like Miami and Mexico City.

What's happening?

A heat advisory was issued for Miami-Dade County on May 17. It is the earliest in the year a heat advisory has been issued for the city in 15 years, according to local media reports based on National Weather Service information. The combination of sweltering heat and humidity made it feel like more than 103 degrees Fahrenheit.

According to Reuters, many cities in Mexico saw records broken earlier in the month, as the mercury climbed well above normal. Even Mexico City, the country's capital, which sits more than 7,000 feet above sea level, hit a high of 34.3 degrees Celsius (93.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on May 9 to break a record.

The oppressive heat in Mexico caused blackouts that lasted several hours in some cases. "This was something exceptional that was not expected," Mexico's president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, said of the heat wave, per Reuters.

Why is this unprecedented heat happening, and why is it concerning?

Scientists think a strong El Nino is at least partially to blame for the historic heat. According to computer model forecasts, the buildup of relatively warmer waters in the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean along and near the equator may transition to a La Nina later this summer or during the fall.

Our warming planet is another contributor to this spring's scorching temperatures. An increase in the atmosphere's toxic gases is overheating Earth.

Scientists concluded that last summer was the hottest in 2,000 years for the Northern Hemisphere. April this year was the 11th consecutive warmest month on record. According to USAFacts, heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths.

Per Reuters, Mexico has already seen at least seven deaths from its record-breaking heat. On average, nearly 600 people die in Miami-Dade County every summer from extreme heat, according to a NASA website.

What can be done about this record-breaking heat?

Changes in how we live each day can help reduce toxic gases and pollution that are warming our planet. Something as simple as talking to friends and family about climate is a good beginning.

Changing how you take care of your yard and making an effort to support brands and products that are helping the environment also go a long way. Changing the way we all get around can help, too.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Our country is home to many natural and man-made masterpieces that can compete with attractions from around the world. For example, the Dzhuryn Waterfall, located in the Ternopil region. Today we will tell you about its grandeur and beauty.

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How the waterfall appeared: the main versions

The history of the waterfall is still not known for certain. But we can say for sure that it is man-made. The ancient city of Chervonohorod used to be located not far from its location. It was an unbreakable fortress that many conquerors who wanted to take Ukrainian lands by force stumbled over. Today you won't find this name on any map. Unfortunately, the fortress was wiped off the map.

Historians identify the three most plausible hypotheses in their opinion. Some believe that the monument was born during the reconstruction of the castle. It became an addition to the park that surrounded the palace. According to another version, the fountain was made to protect the bastion from the Turks, who in 1672 tried to conquer the impregnable structure.

However, most researchers are inclined to believe that Dzhurynskyi waterfall was necessary to maintain the normal functioning of the local mill. The windmill depicted on the maps of the seventeenth century serves as proof of this.

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Basic information

The waterfall in Chervonohrad is the highest waterfall on the plains of Ukraine. Its height is 16 meters and the width of the cascades is as much as 20 meters. Its turbulent streams cover an area of 0.7 hectares.

It looks very similar to the world-famous Niagara Falls. That's why it is constantly crowded with tourists. In summer, you can swim in it. However, be especially careful when diving because there are stones at the bottom.

By the way, there is a kiosk on the territory of the natural monument where you can get coffee or something to eat. But if you plan to stay here for a few days, it's better to stop by a store on the way and stock up on provisions. The nearest one is in the neighboring village, 4 kilometers from the site.

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Important! We recommend arriving there early in the morning. Then there are not so many people here, so you can see it in all its glory.

Interesting facts



The ground in the vicinity of the fountain is red in color. This is especially noticeable after rain. It is because of this peculiarity that the former fortress was named Chervonohorod. Unfortunately, the fortress has not been fully preserved to this day, but its ruins remain.

The unusual color is due to the presence of certain chemical elements in the rocks. Just imagine: the puddles here look like blood or wine.

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What to see nearby



There are many places worth visiting in the Ternopil region. And most of them are located not far from Dzhuryn Waterfall.

A 10-minute walk away are the ruins of the defensive structure of the disappeared city and the Dominican Church. The exact adress of the ruins: Chervone tract, Zalishchykyi district, a few kilometers from Nyrkiv.

If a thirty-minute walk doesn't scare you, go to another waterfall: Maiden's Tears. By the way, the natural object hides a grotto: the Hermit's Cave. According to a legend, a monk, who was engaged in stone carving, lived there. Unfortunately, all of his works have been confiscated. Only one remains, namely the statue of St. Onufriy. Be sure to take a walk to the Dniester Canyon. It is one of the 7 natural wonders of Ukraine, so describing its beauty doesn't even make sense.

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An hour away, in the village of Shutromyntsi, Chortkiv district, there is another waterfall. The main advantage of the attraction is that tourists rarely come here. So here you can safely admire nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle.

How to get there



There are actually a lot of options. You can get there by public transport or by your own car. But keep in mind that in both cases you will have to walk because the entrance to the territory of the natural complex is prohibited.

You need to get to Ternopil, then to Nyrkiv, and then it's just a short drive away. It takes about three hours to get from the "beautiful city" to the village. You can take a train and get to the Vorvulyntsi railway station. If you choose this option, it is better to take a bicycle with you. In this case, head to the village of Horodenky, and then turn towards Nyrkiv.

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There are many attractions in our country that are even better than those abroad. Plan a trip to the Dzhuryn waterfall to see this beauty with your own eyes. Have a nice trip!

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Explainer-What are the FLiRT COVID variants and are they more contagious?

By Michael Erman

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The so-called FLiRT variants of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that cause COVID-19 have been the dominant forms of the virus circulating this year globally, according to the World Health Organization

The moniker FLiRT is an acronym for the locations of the mutations the variants share on the virus' spike protein. One of them, called KP.2, has become the most commonly circulating variant in the United States over the past month, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Here is what you need to know about FLiRT.

HOW ARE THE FLIRT VARIANTS DIFFERENT FROM PREVIOUS VARIANTS?

The FLiRT variants, which also include KP.2's "parental" lineage JN.1, have three key mutations on their spike protein that could help them evade antibodies, according to Johns Hopkins University.

ARE THE FLIRT VARIANTS MORE CONTAGIOUS OR LIKELY TO CAUSE MORE SEVERE ILLNESS?

Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital in Oceanside, New York, and a spokesperson for the Infectious Diseases Society of America said he has not seen evidence of an uptick in disease or hospitalizations, based on the data he tracks and experience with his own patients.

"There have been some significant changes in the variants, but I think in recent times it's not been as important, probably because of the immunity many, many people already have" from prior illness and vaccination.

CDC data suggests that COVID-related hospitalizations have trended downwards in recent weeks and the number of patients in emergency departments who have tested positive for COVID has been about flat for the past month.

Data suggests that COVID rates are also down year-over-year. The rate of COVID hospitalizations is less than half than a year earlier, and the amount of the antiviral Paxlovid currently being prescribed for COVID-19 is down around 60% from last year, according to analyst notes.

DO CURRENT VACCINES WORK AGAINST THE FLIRT VARIANTS?

The current vaccines should still have some benefit against the new variants, Glatt said.

Since 2022, health regulators have asked vaccine makers to design new versions of the COVID-19 vaccines to better target circulating variants. Last month, Europe's regulator said vaccine makers should target the JN.1 variant. U.S. experts and regulators will meet to discuss vaccine design on June 5 after having postponed the meeting from May 16 in order to have more time to "obtain surveillance data and other information."

Makers of vaccines based on messenger RNA (mRNA) technology - Pfizer with partner BioNTech, and Moderna - say they are waiting for the June 5 meeting before settling on the design of their next vaccines.

Novavax, which makes a more traditional protein-based vaccine that takes longer to manufacture, has begun producing a shot targeting JN.1 consistent with recommendations from European regulators.

(Reporting by Michael Erman; editing by Caroline Humer and Bill Berkrot)
Will South Africa have a new government or president after election?

By Anait Miridzhanian

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africans vote in national and provincial elections on May 29 with opinion polls suggesting the governing African National Congress will lose its majority for the first time in the democratic era, while remaining the largest party.

Under South Africa's constitution, voters elect 400 members of the National Assembly, who then elect the president by a simple majority. In all previous elections since 1994, the ANC won and lawmakers elected the party's leader as president.

Here are scenarios that could unfold this time, depending on the electoral maths.

ANC OUTPERFORMS POLLS AND WINS

In recent months, several polls suggested ANC support was hovering around the 40% mark, which would represent a collapse from its performance in 2019, when it won 57.5% of the vote.

However, a tracking poll suggests ANC support has risen in the weeks leading up to election day. Analysts say the party has an unmatched grassroots campaigning machine, with activists going door-to-door in communities across the country.

Over the past four electoral cycles, the ANC's share of the vote gradually dropped, but never by more than five percentage points from one election to the next.

If the ANC wins a majority, it is highly likely that President Cyril Ramaphosa, the party leader, would be re-elected as head of state by the new National Assembly.

ANC LOSES MAJORITY AND RAMAPHOSA GETS OUSTED

If the ANC loses its majority by a wide margin and Ramaphosa is blamed, the party could seek to oust him as its leader and nominate someone else for the National Assembly to elect as South African president.

It would have to move quickly as the constitution says the new National Assembly must convene within 14 days of the election result being declared to elect a president.

Most analysts say this is unlikely unless the ANC vote share is around 40% or less, a worst-case-scenario for the party. A more probable scenario would be for Ramaphosa to hand over to a successor in an orderly transition part way through his term.

Whether Ramaphosa stays or goes, the overwhelmingly likely scenario is that he or the next ANC leader will be president after the election. There would have to be a colossal upset for another party to have a chance of winning the presidency.

Regardless of whether Ramaphosa or someone else is president, if the ANC loses its majority it will need support from one or more other parties to keep governing.

ANC NARROWLY LOSES MAJORITY AND SEEKS SMALL PARTNERS

If the ANC comes close enough to 50%, it will try to make a deal with small- or medium-sized parties to form a government.

Analysts say the socially conservative Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), which is strong in KwaZulu-Natal province and is polling at about 5% nationally, could be the ANC's first choice, though the IFP leader says it would rather not prop up the ANC.

The two parties were in violent conflict during the final years of apartheid, but worked together in the government of national unity that was formed after the 1994 election.

Other potential partners include the small Muslim party Al-Jama'ah and the Patriotic Alliance, which draws its support from the mixed-race community.

ANC LOSES MAJORITY BY WIDER MARGIN AND SEEKS LARGER PARTNER

Depending on the numbers, the party may have no choice but to seek support from one of its larger rivals: the free-market Democratic Alliance (DA) or the Marxist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

The price of a deal with either of those would likely be significant policy concessions by the ANC, as well as the offer of some senior government positions for their partner.

Analysts say it is difficult to envisage a stable arrangement under this scenario, and South Africa could be facing a period of unprecedented government volatility.

Investors and the business community would prefer a deal with the DA, which has said it would not rule one out. However, many analysts think the ideological divide between the ANC and the DA is so wide as to make a deal difficult or impossible.

Led by Julius Malema, a former leader of the ANC's youth wing, the EFF may be a more natural fit for the ANC, but relations are tense between Malema and some ANC factions.

The EFF said in April it would partner with the ANC if it got the powerful post of finance minister. The ANC, which has not disclosed its thinking on any non-majority scenario, would be unlikely to agree to this unless it were hugely weakened.

Steven Friedman, an academic affiliated with the University of Johannesburg and Rhodes University, said it was hard to imagine the ANC and the EFF governing together for five years.

He cited their inability last year to agree on a constitutional change on land reform even though their positions on the issue are closely aligned.

(Additional reporting by Nellie Peyton; Editing by Estelle Shirbon and Toby Chopra)
Explorers find what they believe is World War II aces downed plane in South Pacific

***Video above: WWII vet to wed near Normandy beach 80 years after D-Day.***

MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Searchers announced Thursday theyve discovered what they believe is the wreckage of World War II ace Richard Bongs plane in the South Pacific.

The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, Wisconsin, and the nonprofit World War II historical preservation group Pacific Wrecks announced in March they were launching a joint search for Bongs Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter. Bong nicknamed the plane Marge after his girlfriend, Marge Vattendahl.

Another pilot, Thomas Malone, was flying the plane in March 1944 over what is now known as Papua New Guinea when engine failure sent it into a spin. Malone bailed out before the plane crashed in the jungle.

Leave those grandmas alone: 5-foot gator caught on 104-year-old womans property

The expeditions leader, Pacific Wrecks Director Justin Taylan, said that the search team discovered the wreckage in the jungles of Papua New Guineas Madang Province on May 15.

He released photos of himself in the jungle with chunks of metal on the ground. In one photo he points to what the caption calls a wing tip from the plane stamped with 993, the last three numbers of the planes serial number. Enlarging the photo shows markings that could be two 9s but theyre obscured by what might be dirt or rust and difficult to make out. Another photo shows a piece of metal stamped with Model P-38 JK.

Taylan said during a video news conference from Papua New Guinea on Thursday afternoon that the serial number and model identification prove the plane is Marge definitely, beyond a doubt.

I think its safe to say mission accomplished, Taylan said. Marge has been identified. Its a great day for the center, a great day for Pacific Wrecks, a great day for history.

Taylan has been researching the location of the crash site for years. He said that historical records suggested it went down on the grounds of a 150-year old plantation. Local residents initially showed the expedition the wreck of a Japanese fighter plane before telling the searchers about wreckage deeper in the jungle.

Ashley Madison: Why this Ohio city top in U.S. for sign-ups

The explorers hiked through the jungle until they discovered wreckage in a ravine, Taylan said. At the top of the ravine they found two aircraft engines sticking out of the ground, indicating the plane went in nose-first and buried itself in the ground. Taylan said Bong painted the wing tips red and the paint was still on them.

Bong, who grew up in Poplar, Wisconsin, is credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft during World War II. He plastered a blow-up of Vattendahls portrait on the nose of his plane, according to a Pacific Wrecks summary of the planes service.

Bong shot down more planes than any other American pilot. Gen. Douglas MacArthur awarded him the Medal of Honor, the U.S. militarys highest decoration, in 1944. Taylan said that Bong shot down three planes while flying Marge.

Bong and Vattendahl eventually married in 1945. Bong was assigned to duty as a test pilot in Burbank, California, after three combat tours in the South Pacific. He was killed on Aug. 6, 1945, when a P-80 jet fighter he was testing crashed. He died on the same day the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima.

Vattendahl was 21 at the time of Bongs death. She went on to become a model and a magazine publisher in Los Angeles. She died in September 2003 in Superior.

A bridge connecting Superior and Duluth, Minnesota, is named for Bong. A state recreation area in southeastern Wisconsin also is named for him.

The Bong family is very excited about this discovery, James Bong, Richard Bongs nephew, said in the news release. It is amazing and incredible that Marge has been found and identified.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Extraordinary hurricane season in store for East Coast and more Virginia headlines

The state Capitol. (Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury)

 Lawmakers call for further inquiry into Virginia prison that had hypothermia hospitalizations.Associated Press

 National Park Service will allow Knights of Columbus mass at national cemetery.Richmond Times-Dispatch

 Doctor released from Va. prison two years after being pardoned.Washington Post

 NOAA warns East Coast to prepare for extraordinary hurricane season.WHRO

 Virginia Beachs infamous no-cursing signs will be sold to raise money for police charity.Virginian-Pilot

The post Extraordinary hurricane season in store for East Coast and more Virginia headlines appeared first on Virginia Mercury.
FILE - A family uses a boat after fleeing floodwaters that wreaked havoc in the Githurai area of Nairobi, Kenya, April 24, 2024. Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera. In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021. (AP Photo/Patrick Ngugi, File)

LILANDA, Zambia (AP)  Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera.

In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021.

Malawi and Zambia have had their worst outbreaks on record. Zimbabwe has had multiple waves. Mozambique, Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia also have been badly affected.

All have experienced floods or drought  in some cases, both  and health authorities, scientists and aid agencies say the unprecedented surge of the water-borne bacterial infection in Africa is the newest example of how extreme weather is playing a role in driving disease outbreaks.

The outbreaks are getting much larger because the extreme climate events are getting much more common," said Tulio de Oliveira, a South Africa-based scientist who studies diseases in the developing world.

De Oliveira, who led a team that identified new coronavirus variants during the COVID-19 pandemic, said southern Africa's latest outbreaks can be traced to the cyclones and floods that hit Malawi in late 2021 and early 2022, carrying the cholera bacteria to areas it doesn't normally reach.

Zimbabwe and Zambia have seen cases rise as they wrestle with severe droughts and people rely on less safe sources of water in their desperation like boreholes, shallow wells and rivers, which can all be contaminated. Days after the deadly flooding in Kenya and other parts of East Africa this month, cholera cases appeared.

The World Health Organization calls cholera a disease of poverty, as it thrives where there is poor sanitation and a lack of clean water. Africa has had eight times as many deaths this year as the Middle East, the second-most affected region.

Historically vulnerable, Africa is even more at risk as it faces the worst impacts of climate change as well as the effect of the El Nino weather phenomenon, health experts say.

In what's become a perfect storm, there's also a global shortage of cholera vaccines, which are needed only in poorer countries.

It doesnt affect countries with resources, said Dr. Daniela Garone, the international medical coordinator for Doctors Without Borders, also known by its French acronym MSF. So, it doesnt bring the resources.

Billions of dollars have been invested into other diseases that predominantly affect the world's most vulnerable, like polio and tuberculosis, largely because those diseases are highly contagious and could cause outbreaks even in rich countries. But that's not the case with cholera, where epidemics remain contained.

WHO said this month there is a critical shortage of oral cholera vaccines in the global stockpile. Since the start of 2023, 15 countries  the desperate few  have requested a total of 82 million doses to deal with deadly outbreaks while only 46 million doses were available.

There are just 3.2 million doses left, below the target of having at least 5 million in reserve. While there are currently cholera epidemics in the Middle East, the Americas and Southeast Asia, Africa is by far the worst-affected region.

Vaccines alliance GAVI and UNICEF said last month that the approval of a new cholera vaccine would boost stocks. But the result of the shortage has already been measured in deaths.

Lilanda, a township on the edge of the Zambian capital of Lusaka, is a typical cholera hot spot. Stagnant pools of water dot the dirt roads. Clean water is like gold dust. Here, over two awful days in January, Mildred Banda saw her 1-year-old son die from cholera and rushed to save the life of her teenage daughter.

Cholera shouldn't be killing anyone. The disease is easily treated and easily prevented  and the vaccines are relatively simple to produce.

That didn't help Banda's son, Ndanji.

When he fell sick with diarrhea, he was treated with an oral rehydration solution at a clinic and released. He slipped back into dehydration that night at home. Banda feels terrible guilt.

I should have noticed earlier that my son was not feeling well, she said, sitting in her tiny concrete house. I should have acted faster and taken him back to the clinic. I should have taken him back to save his life.

Because of the vaccine shortage, Zambia couldnt undertake a preventative vaccination campaign after neighboring Malawi's outbreak. That should have been a warning call, said de Oliveira. Zambia only made an emergency request when its cases started mounting.

The doses that might have saved Ndanji started arriving in mid-January. He died on Jan. 6.

In Zimbabwe, a drought worsened by El Nino has seen cholera take hold in distant rural areas as well as its traditional hot spots of crowded urban neighborhoods.

Abi Kebra Belaye, MSF representative for Zimbabwe, said the southern African nation normally has around 17 hard-hit areas, mostly urban. This year, cholera spread to 62 districts as the struggle to find water heightened the risk.

This part of Africa is paying the highest price of climate change, Kebra Belaye said.

Augustine Chonyera, who hails from a cholera-prone part of the capital, Harare, was shocked when he recently visited the sparsely populated rural district of Buhera.

He said he heard grim tales of the impact of the disease: a family losing five members, a husband and wife dying within hours of each other and local businesses using delivery trucks to take the sick to a clinic several kilometers (miles) away.

It seems now the people in rural areas are in more danger than us. I still wonder how it happened, Chonyera said.

He said he returned home as soon as he could  after giving a large bottle of treated water he had brought with him to an elderly woman.

___

Mutsaka reported from Harare, Zimbabwe. Imray reported from Cape Town, South Africa.

___

The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Claim:

Former U.S. President John F. Kennedy wrote in a 1939 letter to his father, "Palestine was hardly Britain's to give away."

Rating:

Rating: Correct Attribution

Context:

The quote does not fully encapsulate Kennedy's views. He wrote in the same letter he had become "more pro-British" during his visit to Jerusalem as "the men on the spot are doing a good job here." He called the British proposed solution at the time theoretically "just and fair" but did not think it would work. On the Israel-Palestine crisis, he wrote: "I have never seen two groups more unwilling to try and work out a solution  than these two groups."

In May 2024, amidst Israel's military onslaught of Gaza a piece of history went viral about former U.S. President John F. Kennedy's views on the history of the Middle East crisis.

Many posts on X claimed that Kennedy once stated, "Palestine was hardly Britain's to give away."

Palestine was hardly Britains to give away



~ President John F Kennedy  pic.twitter.com/RcdYwMeOBC  Pelham (@Resist_05) May 14, 2024

The purported quote did indeed come from a letter a young Kennedy wrote to his father in 1939 after he made a trip to Palestine, as seen in the archives of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. However, it did not fully encapsulate his views of the British and their role in the relatively new crisis at the time. We rate this claim as "Correct Attribution" but will add necessary context below.

Writing to His Father

Kennedy, who was 21 at the time of his visit, was writing to his father, Joseph P. Kennedy, the U.S. ambassador to London, who had sent his son on a study tour around Europe and Palestine. The elder Kennedy, according to Israeli news outlet Haaretz, had been following talks between the British government and Zionist and Arab leaders in London in the late 1930s, on future policy in Palestine. The discussions yielded no results and the British issued their own 1939 White Paper, which Kennedy went on to analyze.

The letter contains Kennedy's assessment of the crisis in the region, and begins with a summary of the history of the conflict. He stated he wanted to share his "impressions" of Palestine, addressing his father, "though you undoubtedly, if I know the Jews, know the 'whole' story." According to Haaretz, Kennedy was insinuating the troublesome nature of Zionist lobbyists.

Kennedy described how the British government made separate but vague promises to both the Jewish and Arab people, through the McMahon letters and the Balfour Declaration, that contradicted each other. He then stated his objection to the White Paper: "It theoretically presents a good solution, but it just won't work."

The White Paper planned to create a new independent government within 10 years. Its provisions stated immigration quotas for Jewish people arriving in Palestine, restrictions on land sales to Jewish people and constitutional measures to create a binational state under Arab majority rule that recognized that two peoples or nations resided within it and provisions to protect the rights of the Jewish minority.

Kennedy summarized the objections made by Arab and Jewish groups to the White Paper and concluded that it would just not work because neither group wanted it to work. The Arabs, he wrote, rejected it because of the vague timeline for implementation and as it allowed the continued influx of Jewish people in the region. The Jewish people, he wrote, saw the end to their Zionist dream of a state, their continued status as a minority group and an end to donations they received from abroad. Privately, he noted, the Arabs objected because the plan did not allow for the return of their exiled mufti, their political and religious leader, who was in Syria. The Jewish side objected, Kennedy wrote, because they wanted "complete domination, with Jerusalem as the capital of their new land of milk and honey, with the right to colonise in trans-Jordan."

The only solution, he wrote, was to "break the country up into two autonomous districts giving them both self-government" and keep Jerusalem as an "independent unit."

About the British

On the subject of the British, Kennedy appeared to be sympathetic to their position in the conflict. He wrote about his experiences in Jerusalem and how it made him more "pro-British" (emphasis ours):

At present, situation still seems to be difficult as far as outrages and bombings. There were 13 bombs set off my last evening there, all in the Jewish quarter and all set off by Jews. The ironical part is that the Jewish terrorists bomb their own telephone lines and electric connections and the next day frantically phone the British to come and fix them up. Incidentally I have become more pro-British down there than I have been in my other visits to England as I think that the men on the spot are doing a good job. This roughly, in fact very roughly, is an outline of the situation.

He concluded the paragraph with an indictment of both the Arab and Jewish groups: "I have never seen two groups more unwilling to try and work out a solution that has some hope of success than these two groups."

He described the "sympathy" of the "people on the spot"  perhaps referring to diplomats  with the Arabs, where the aforementioned quote in the claim emerges. He wrote (emphasis ours):

This is not only because the Jews have had, at least some of their leaders, an unfortunately arrogant, uncompromising attitude, but they feel that after all, the country has been Arabic for the last few hundred years, and they naturally feel sympathetic. After all, Palestine was hardly Britain's to give away. The question is further complicated by the fact that both groups are split among themselves.

The above excerpts from his letter indicate a largely sympathetic view of the British role in the conflict. He described their White Paper as a solution that would not be implementable, and called for two separate countries with their own governments.

As a politician, Kennedy was largely pro-Israel, affirming his commitment to U.S.-Israel ties while a senator in 1960. Analysts, however, said he managed to maintain cordial ties with the Arab world, and reportedly tried and failed to solve the Palestinian refugee crisis.

Sources:

Apter, Lauren Elise. Disorderly Decolonization : The White Paper of 1939 and the End of British Rule in Palestine. University of Texas, Austin, 2008, https://repositories.lib.utexas.edu/items/8411da90-1489-43e1-85a5-3759ba2cfd2c. Accessed 16 May 2024.

"Anglo-American Committee of Inquiry - Appendix IV." Avalon Project, Yale Law School. https://avalon.law.yale.edu/20th_century/angap04.asp. Accessed 16 May 2024.

"JFK's History with Arabs and Palestine." Majalla. https://en.majalla.com/node/304821. Accessed 16 May 2024.

"Letter Written to His Father Following Trip to Palestine, 1939." JFK Library. https://www.jfklibrary.org/asset-viewer/archives/jfkpof-135-001. Accessed 16 May 2024.

"Remarks of Senator John F. Kennedy at the Convention of the Zionist Organization of America, New York City, August 26, 1960." JFK Library. https://www.jfklibrary.org/archives/other-resources/john-f-kennedy-speeches/new-york-ny-19600826. Accessed 16 May 2024.

Segev, Tom. "JFK in the Land of Milk and Honey." Haaretz, 19 Oct. 2012. Haaretz, https://www.haaretz.com/2012-10-19/ty-article/.premium/jfk-in-the-land-of-milk-and-honey/0000017f-f427-d487-abff-f7ffcb540000. Accessed 16 May 2024.
Fact Check: Posts Claim '143 Democrats' Voted in Favor of Letting Noncitizens Vote in US Elections. Here Are the Facts

Claim:

Viral social media posts accurately reported in May 2024 that 143 Democrats voted to let noncitizens vote in U.S. elections.

Rating:

Rating: False

Context:

The vote was to revoke a law that allows noncitizens in Washington, D.C., to vote in local elections. Noncitizens are expressly prohibited from voting in federal elections, but municipalities in several states allow them to vote in local elections.

In May 2024, several social media posts spread the rumor that 143 Democrats in Congress had voted to allow noncitizens in the U.S. to vote in elections:

143 Democrats just voted in favor of non-citizens voting in American elections: pic.twitter.com/swolBDe0mi  End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) May 23, 2024

The post had received more than 870,000 views as of this writing, along with 12,000 likes and 3,800 shares. This rumor was picked up unquestioningly by other users on X, here, here and here. The last post, by @libsoftiktok, had been viewed 1.8 million times, liked 31,000 times and shared 11,000 times.

None of the posters provided context for this vote, which concerned only local elections in Washington, D.C., and related to a so-called "rule change." This led posters to draw an erroneous conclusion. We have therefore rated the claim "False."

Local Elections in D.C.

While they pay federal taxes, Washington, D.C., residents have no representation in the U.S. Senate or House. They are able to elect what are referred to as two "shadow" senators, one "shadow" representative and a non-voting delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives. The shadow congresspeople cannot vote on the floor or in committee. Their role is to advocate for statehood. The non-voting delegate can serve on and vote in committees, speak on the House floor, propose amendments and sponsor bills. The delegate cannot vote on the House floor.

(Puerto Rico has two shadow senators, four shadow representatives and one non-voting delegate. Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands each have one non-voting delegate.)

Washington, D.C., residents hold local elections in which they vote for 13 members of the District Council  similar to a city council  and a mayor. They also vote for Advisory Neighborhood Commissions, each of which represents about 2,000 people. Lastly, the 23rd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1961, gives the capital electors in the country's presidential elections.

Only Congress can legislate what Washington, D.C., residents can and cannot vote on. House representatives and senators do so the same way they would vote on any federal law. They write a bill that changes electoral rules in the capital and vote on it. The bill must then pass the House and be handed off to the Senate, to be signed by the president. The vote that took place on May 23, 2024, was one such vote.

The text of the bill, H.R. 192, aimed to revoke a law that allows noncitizens in D.C. to vote in local elections. The D.C. Noncitizen Vote Act passed in 2023, and while a few voters mounted a legal challenge against it, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia dismissed the lawsuit. On May 23, 2024, 143 Democrats voted to keep the law in place, while 262 representatives (including 52 Democrats) voted to repeal it.

Local Elections Elsewhere

Municipalities in three other states allow noncitizens to vote in local elections: California, Maryland and Vermont. Seven states prohibit it, including Alabama, Colorado and North Dakota. Many don't have clear impediments to it.

As for federal elections, noncitizens are expressly prohibited from voting in them. This includes presidential elections, but also senatorial and congressional elections, as per the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996:

(a) It shall be unlawful for any alien to vote in any election held solely or in part for the purpose of electing a candidate for the office of President, Vice President, Presidential elector, Member of the Senate, Member of the House of Representatives, Delegate from the District of Columbia, or Resident Commissioner, unless (1) the election is held partly for some other purpose; (2) aliens are authorized to vote for such other purpose under a State constitution or statute or a local ordinance; and (3) voting for such other purpose is conducted independently of voting for a candidate for such Federal offices, in such a manner that an alien has the opportunity to vote for such other purpose, but not an opportunity to vote for a candidate for any one or more of such Federal offices. (b) Any person who violates this section shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

Beyond the appearance of confusion, this claim in the viral posts seems to be the latest move in a far-right campaign to erode trust in electoral processes in the U.S. For example, in early May 2024, we debunked a similar claim by Stephen Miller, a onetime adviser to former President Donald Trump, who was again seeking office. In April 2024, we wrote about a false rumor that Wisconsin, a key swing state in federal elections, allowed noncitizens to get IDs to vote. Instances of fraudulent votes by noncitizens are extremely rare, and severely punished.

Bill H.R. 192 stands very little chance of going through the Senate, where the Democrats hold a majority.

Sources:

'Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996'. Ballotpedia, https://ballotpedia.org/Illegal_Immigration_Reform_and_Immigrant_Responsibility_Act_of_1996. Accessed 24 May 2024.

'Shadow Congresspersons'. Ballotpedia, https://ballotpedia.org/Shadow_Congresspersons. Accessed 24 May 2024.

'United States Congressional Non-Voting Members'. Ballotpedia, https://ballotpedia.org/United_States_congressional_non-voting_members. Accessed 24 May 2024.

'Laws Permitting Noncitizens to Vote in the United States'. Ballotpedia, https://ballotpedia.org/Laws_permitting_noncitizens_to_vote_in_the_United_States. Accessed 24 May 2024.

'Municipal Elections in Washington, D.C. (2024)'. Ballotpedia, https://ballotpedia.org/Municipal_elections_in_Washington,_D.C._(2024). Accessed 24 May 2024.

Pfluger, August. To Prohibit Individuals Who Are Not Citizens of the United States from Voting in Elections in the District of Columbia and to Repeal the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022. H.R. 192, 23 May 2024, https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/192.

Rascouet-Paz, Anna. 'US House Democrats Voted to Give "Illegal Immigrants" New Representation in Elections?' Snopes, 10 May 2024, https://www.snopes.com//news/2024/05/10/democrats-immigrants-elections-representation/.

---. 'Wisconsin Allows Noncitizens to Get IDs to Vote?' Snopes, 15 Apr. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/wisconsin-noncitizens-ids-vote/.

U.S. House of Representatives: House Session | May 23, 2024 | C-SPAN.Org. https://www.c-span.org/video/?535861-1/house-session&start=14508. Accessed 24 May 2024.

Washington, U. S. Capitol Room H154, and DC 20515-6601 p:225-7000. 'Roll Call 232 Roll Call 232, Bill Number: H. R. 192, 118th Congress, 2nd Session'. Office of the Clerk, U.S. House of Representatives, 23 May 2024, https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024232?Date=05%2F23%2F2024.

'U.S. House Panel Votes to Advance Election Bills Targeting Noncitizens, Foreign Money'. News From The States, https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-panel-votes-advance-election-bills-targeting-noncitizens-foreign-money. Accessed 24 May 2024.

Kim, Minho. 'Here's Why Republicans Are Focusing on Voting by Noncitizens'. The New York Times, 22 May 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/21/us/politics/noncitizen-voting-explainer.html.
Claim:

Bill Gates has funded experiments to block out the sun.

Rating:

Rating: Mostly False

What's True:

Since 2007, Bill Gates has funded research initiatives that, in part, provide grants for experiments related to solar radiation management  a form of geoengineering controversially proposed as a last-ditch solution to anthropogenic global warming. A Harvard experiment named SCoPEx was supported in part by these initiatives.

What's False:

The project at issue, which was canceled in March 2024, was an experiment designed to collect data for the purpose of refining computer models that simulate solar radiation management, not to implement an actual test of the practice. The most the experiment sought to do was release 4.4 pounds of non-toxic dust from a weather balloon 12 miles high in the sky.

In mid-May 2024, the claim that Bill Gates backs "projects to block the sun" re-emerged online. A post shared by Peter Sweden, a conspiracy theorist who frequently targets Gates, claimed "that's exactly what he's doing":





This claim is largely false. Snopes first covered this claim in 2021. While Gates did fund a since-canceled solar geoengineering experiment called SCoPEx, the aim of that project was never to "block out the sun." Gates is a popular target of conspiracy theories characterizing his charitable giving as evidence of a nefarious world domination scheme.

In late December 2020, reacting to reporting from Reuters, the Western Journal published a story titled "Bill Gates' Savior Complex Spirals Out of Control, Funds Sun-Dimming Plan To Save the Human Race." In that piece, the outlet represented a Harvard University project named SCoPEx, partially funded by Gates, to be a catastrophic threat to humanity and a literal test of a form of geoengineering known as solar radiation management  releasing aerosols into the atmosphere as a way to cool the planet and counter global warming.

The Western Journal's reporting, and other claims in its vein, reference or combine a December 2020 Reuters story with elements of a scientifically confused profile of the SCoPEx project published in 2019 by the British tabloid Daily Mail. The stories or tweets generally assert or implied that: Gates was funding research that would literally dim the sun; that he "wants to" use this form of geoengineering as a tool to fight climate change; that SCoPEx specifically sought to test the theory that "spraying particles into the atmosphere" can reduce warming; and that scientists thought SCoPEx itself could produce global unintended consequences.

Such assertions or implications are misleading in several regards described in detail below. Briefly, it is true that Gates has funded research that includes theoretical studies into the feasibility of solar radiation management. SCoPEx was one of those projects. It is, however, a mischaracterization to suggest that SCoPEx sought to test geoengineering per se, that a geoengineered world is a desired outcome for the people involved in the project, or that SCoPEx itself could disturb the global climate system.

What Was SCoPEx?

The ultimate point of the SCoPEx project was not to dim anything  scientists do not need to test whether aerosols block sunlight, that fact is already well established  but instead to release a small amount of calcium carbonate (no more than 4.4 pounds) into the wake of a propeller-driven weather balloon flying 12 miles above the Arctic, creating a diffuse cloud roughly 1,000 yards long and 100 yards in diameter.

The data gathered during this experiment would, among other things, help inform computer models that look into the potential risks of actual geoengineering. These models, the SCoPEx website explained, "are the primary tool for estimating the risks and benefits of solar geoengineering." To refine these models, scientists need to know how the aerosols interact with the atmosphere on a nanoscale. According to the project's website:

SCoPEx will make quantitative measurements of aspects of the aerosol microphysics and atmospheric chemistry that are currently highly uncertain in the simulations. It is not a test of solar geoengineering per se. Instead, it will observe how particles interact with one another, with the background stratospheric air, and with solar and infrared radiation. Improved understanding of these processes will help answer applied questions such as, is it possible to find aerosols that can reduce or eliminate ozone loss, without increasing other physical risks?

On March 18, 2024, Harvard announced that it was no longer pursuing the SCoPEx experiment:

In August 2023, the research team conveyed  that it had suspended work on SCoPEx. Today, the Principal Investigator of SCoPEx, Professor Frank Keutsch, announced that he is no longer pursuing the experiment. The platform developed for SCoPEx is expected to be repurposed for basic scientific research in the stratosphere unrelated to solar geoengineering.

What Was Bill Gates' Involvement?

In 2007, Gates created a grant-making research fund known as the Fund for Innovative Climate and Energy Research. SCoPEx was partly funded through FICER and partly funded by Harvard's Solar Geoengineering Research Program, which itself is funded by a number of foundations and other private donors, including Gates.

Due to the controversial subject matter (more on that below) and the fact that it was privately funded, SCoPEx was overseen by an outside panel of advisers run by Harvard. This group signed off on major research decisions and audits SCoPEx's finances. In a report made by that body, Gates' involvement is noted, but the proportion of the project funded by Gates is not publicly disclosed.

Why Was SCoPEx Controversial?

Scientists' concerns with solar radiation management generally fall into two categories: unknowns about potential unintended consequences in the global climate system, and the possibility such a solution, by providing a technological fix, would encourage further fossil-fuel use in lieu of sustainable changes. The arguments underlying these concerns are outside the scope of this article, but a central feature of misinformed reporting on SCoPEx involves conflating scientists' or activists' views on solar radiation management in general with fears about SCoPEx specifically.

For example, no credible scientist was arguing that SCoPEx, by releasing 4.4 pounds of chalky power 12 miles above the Arctic, would, as the Daily Mail put it, "trigger a disastrous series of chain reactions, creating climate havoc in the form of serious droughts and hurricanes, and bring death to millions of people around the world." Such statements describe popularly held concerns about the concept of geoengineering as a whole. For his part, SCoPEx researcher and Harvard professor Frank Keutsch argued that concerns like these are unsupported by scientific research and motivated more by fears about geoengineering being a problematic, pro-fossil-fuel solution to global warming. In a December 2020 Boston Globe op-ed, he wrote:

Why the sharp divergence between media and science? It's driven, in part, by a well-intentioned sense of caution that solar geoengineering will weaken efforts to cut carbon emissions. This is geoengineering's addiction problem, often called its moral hazard. If it encourages more fossil emissions by masking the climate pain they cause, then it is addictive because every ton of extra fossil carbon emissions increases climate risks, thereby increasing the demand for geoengineering to mask the pain.

Keutsch's counter, in essence, was that we don't yet know enough about the mechanics of the solution to adequately understand its risks. "Decision-makers and the public they serve need balanced information about the effectiveness and risks of geoengineering," he wrote in that op-ed. "They are ill-served if the geoengineering's real physical risks are conflated with the equally real political threat that geoengineering will be exploited by fossil fuel interest groups to block the transformation of our energy infrastructure away from carbon."

The concerns enumerated in Daily Mail and Reuters, when quoting from actual scientists, universally fall into the "slippery slope" line of reasoning  the notion that the only reason for the incremental work proposed by SCoPEx is to realize a dream of actually geoengineering the planet. The stated goal of SCoPEx, as described on the project website, was the collection of data regarding the microphysics of aerosols in the upper atmosphere so that computer models analyzing geoengineering can be as accurate as possible:

This experiment will help us learn more about the efficacy and risks of solar geoengineering. Computer modeling and laboratory work tell us some very useful things about solar geoengineering, but as with all other aspects of environmental science, computer models ultimately rest on observations of the real environment. Measuring the ways that aerosols alter stratospheric chemistry can, for example, improve the ability of global models to predict how large-scale geoengineering could possibly disrupt stratospheric ozone. Outdoor experiments can provide in situ perspective that is impossible to obtain in the laboratory and SCoPEx can help us validate important model parameters that have yet to been tested against measurements.

Slippery-slope arguments aside, this is a far cry from an attempt to geoengineer the world.

Does Bill Gates 'Want' to Dim the Sun?

Many anti-Gates stories and memes suggest Gates' philanthropic efforts stem from things he "wants" to happen. In terms of solar radiation management, that has not been the case. Gates' argument, as described during a 2010 TED Talk, is that humanity should not be in a position, if global warming gets bad enough that geoengineering needs to be taken seriously, where we do not have the research to fully understand the mechanics of that solution:

If you get into that situation, it's like if you've been overeating, and you're about to have a heart attack. Then where do you go? You may need heart surgery or something. There is a line of research on what's called geoengineering, which are various techniques that would delay the heating to buy us 20 or 30 years to get our act together. Now, that's just an insurance policy; you hope you don't need to do that. Some people say you shouldn't even work on the insurance policy because it might make you lazy, that you'll keep eating because you know heart surgery will be there to save you. I'm not sure that's wise, given the importance of the problem, but there's now the geoengineering discussion about: Should that be in the back pocket in case things happen faster, or this innovation [in sustainable energy] goes a lot slower than we expect?

As Keutsch has pointed out, this is not a fringe view, it is one held by several scientific bodies. In 2015, the National Academies of Sciences, for example, released a two-part report on climate interventions like solar radiation management. "If the world cannot slow emissions or the effects of climate change are more extreme or occur sooner than expected, there may be demands to pursue additional climate-intervention technologies about which scientists need a better understanding," National Academy of Sciences President Ralph J. Cicerone said in a news release for that report."Although riskier ideas to lessen the amount of energy absorbed from the sun should not be considered for deployment, they should be studied so that we can provide answers if someday these ideas begin to be considered in attempts to avert catastrophe."

The Bottom Line

Though no longer even an active project, the incremental nature of SCoPEx during its lifetime cannot be understated. The only reason the experiment was in the news in December 2020, for instance, was because the project found a company to facilitate the launch of a weather balloon. But even that flight was only a test of the balloon, and would not release its theoretical payload of just under 3.5 pounds of calcium carbonate powder.

Further, a diffuse cloud of chalky powder gently perturbed by a propeller-driven weather balloon 12 miles above the Arctic would in no way be capable of altering the global climate system. Headlines or statements to the contrary rely on "slippery slope" arguments about geoengineering in general, not a fear that SCoPEx itself could destroy the world.

While Gates is one of geoengineering research's most significant (at least in financial terms) champions, his funding of this research does not stem from a desire to implement so-called "last-ditch" solutions. For these reasons, and because SCoPEx did not  from a factual standpoint  ever seek to actually dim or block the sun, we rate the claim that Gates is supports research that "would help block out the sun" as "Mostly False."

Sources:

Climate Intervention: Reflecting Sunlight to Cool Earth. National Academies Press, 2015. National Academies Press, https://doi.org/10.17226/18988.

Foundation, Alister Doyle, Thomson Reuters. "Planned Harvard Balloon Test in Sweden Stirs Solar Geoengineering Unease." Reuters, 18 Dec. 2020. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSL8N2IY3SM/.

Funding. https://geoengineering.environment.harvard.edu/funding. Accessed 20 May 2024.

Gates, Bill. Innovating to Zero! 1266454800. www.ted.com, https://www.ted.com/talks/bill_gates_innovating_to_zero/transcript.

Golden, C. Douglas. "Bill Gates-Backed Plan To Deploy Sun-Dimming Quietly Moves Forward." The Western Journal, 27 Dec. 2020, https://www.westernjournal.com/bill-gates-savior-complex-spirals-control-funds-sun-dimming-plan-save-human-race/.

Keutsch Group at Harvard - SCoPEx. https://www.keutschgroup.com/scopex. Accessed 20 May 2024.

O'Neill, Tegan. "An Update on SCoPEx." The Salata Institute, 18 Mar. 2024, https://salatainstitute.harvard.edu/an-update-on-scopex/.

The World Needs to Explore Solar Geoengineering as a Tool to Fight Climate Change. https://keith.seas.harvard.edu/news/world-needs-explore-solar-geoengineering-tool-fight-climate-change. Accessed 20 May 2024.


Claim:

A man in South Africa who rescued a baby hippo and raised it died after the animal mauled him several years later.

Rating:

Rating: True

For more than a decade, social media users have shared the story of a man in South Africa who reportedly adopted a baby hippopotamus that later killed him. Social media posts on Reddit and X in particular have highlighted this tale, with some accounts even suggesting that the semiaquatic mammal named Humphrey ate and drowned the South African man.

On the Reddit community "Today I Learned," the story of Marius Els and Humphrey the hippopotamus was posted 11 years ago, along with the headline, "A man in South Africa adopted a baby hippo, domesticated it, only to be killed by said hippo in the very river from which it was rescued."

(pimentocheese_sammy/reddit)

"It was tamed, not domesticated," wrote the top commenter on that Reddit post, to which another responded, "Much like tigers, bears, wolves, etc. Its still wild, its not tamed. The person just placates it enough [with food, shelter, attention, etc] that it doesnt see reason to kill them."

A video post from FascinateFlix on X also recounted the incident, providing a clip featuring Els playing with Humphrey and showing the affectionate yet unpredictable nature of the hippo. According to that post, "In 2005, a South African man, Marius Els, adopted a baby hippo after rescuing it from a river. In this clip they can be seen playing together. But 6 years later, the hippo dragged him into that same river and ate him."

In 2005, a South African man, Marius Els, adopted a baby hippo after rescuing it from a river. In this clip they can be seen playing together. But 6 years later, the hippo dragged him into that same river and ate him. pic.twitter.com/5N0pMypWgM  All Things Fascinating (@FascinateFlix) April 24, 2023

While authorities disproved the assertion that the hippo ate Els, the overarching claim is true: A man in South Africa adopted a baby hippo and raised it before the animal killed him several years later.

The story of Els, a farmer in Free State, South Africa, reportedly rescuing and adopting the wild hippo, which he named "Humphrey," came to light after the farmer's death.

Els had rescued Humphrey in 2005 from a flood when the animal was just 5 months old. Despite apparent warnings about the dangers of keeping a wild animal as a pet, Els developed a close bond with Humphrey, treating him as part of the family. He often spoke about their unique relationship, even riding Humphrey around his 400-acre farm.

"Humphrey's like a son to me, he's just like a human," Els said in 2011, according to the Daily Mail. "There's a relationship between me and Humphrey and that's what some people don't understand.

"They think you can only have a relationship with dogs, cats and domestic animals," he continued. "But I have a relationship with the most dangerous animal in Africa."

However, local news in South Africa reported that Humphrey mauled Els to death on Nov. 12, 2011. According to multiple reports, the attack occurred on the banks of the same river where Els had originally rescued the hippo, with the farmer's lifeless body covered in multiple bite marks Humphrey inflicted.

But the hippo hadn't eaten Els, as some social media accounts erroneously reported. According to a 2011 Sky News report:

Netcare 911 spokesman Jeffrey Wicks reported paramedics attended Els' home on the banks of the Vaal River in Free State province. He said: "Paramedics responded to the scene to find that the man had been bitten several times by the animal. "It had also been immersed in the river for an unknown period."

A detailed article in The Guardian confirmed the incident days after it happened, providing an account of Els' relationship with Humphrey and the fatal attack, emphasizing the inherent risks of keeping deadly animals as pets.

YouTube videos, like this one from When Animals Attack documenting Els' interactions with Humphrey, provided visual evidence of their unusual relationship.

Snopes has previously reported on shocking animal attacks, including our exclusive report on an Alaskan man who survived a bear attack, and a girl who died when an elephant in an enclosure threw a rock that hit her in the head.

Sources:

"Did a Pet Hippo Kill and Eat His Owner Six Years after He Was 'Adopted' as per Viral Message? Here Are the Details." OpIndia, OpIndia, 6 June 2021, https://www.opindia.com/2021/06/mauris-els-hippo-ate-owner/.

Lavender, Jane. "Horrific Injuries of Farmer Mauled to Death by Pet Hippo Who Was 'like a Son.'" The Mirror, 15 May 2020, https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/horrific-injuries-farmer-mauled-death-22022594.

Leveled Reading Passage: Top-10 Countdown: Africa's Most Deadly Animals (Hard) | RIF.Org. https://www.rif.org/literacy-central/reading-experience/leveled-reading-passage-top-10-countdown-africa%E2%80%99s-most-deadly-0. Accessed 21 May 2024.

Newling, Dan. "Farmer Gouged to Death by Pet Hippo Humphrey Who Was 'like a Son to Him.'" Mail Online, 14 Nov. 2011, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2061286/Farmer-Marius-Els-gouged-death-pet-hippo-Humphrey-like-son.html.

---. "Farmer Gouged to Death by Pet Hippo Humphrey Who Was 'like a Son to Him.'" Mail Online, 14 Nov. 2011, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2061286/Farmer-Marius-Els-gouged-death-pet-hippo-Humphrey-like-son.html.

News, A. B. C. "Pet Hippo Kills Its Owner." ABC News, http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/technology/2011/11/pet-hippo-kills-its-owner. Accessed 21 May 2024.

"Pet Hippo Humphrey Mauls His Owner To Death." Sky News, https://news.sky.com/story/pet-hippo-humphrey-mauls-his-owner-to-death-10483897. Accessed 21 May 2024.

Smith, David. "Humphrey the Pet Hippo Kills Owner in South Africa." The Guardian, 14 Nov. 2011. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/nov/14/pet-hippo-humphrey-kills-owner.

"Victim Warned about 'pet' Hippo." News24, https://www.news24.com/news24/victim-warned-about-pet-hippo-20111114. Accessed 21 May 2024.

When Animals Attack. The HORRIFYING Last Moments Of Marius Els: MAULED By A Hippo. 2022. YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRDfQHHv4XE.

"X.Com." X (Formerly Twitter), https://x.com/AfricanHub_/status/1776348037075325065. Accessed 21 May 2024.
Fake accounts on the social platform X that have been posting about the U.S. presidential election are spreading across the platform, a social media analysis reported by Reuters found.

Analysts from the Israeli tech company Cyabra used a subset of artificial intelligence machine learning to identify fake accounts and shared the results of the report with the news outlet ahead of the reports release Friday.

The company found that 15 percent of X accounts that praise former President Trump and criticize President Biden on the platform are fake. Seven percent of the accounts that praise Biden and criticize Trump are fake, too.

The study examined posts over two months, beginning March 1. It examined popular hashtags and determined if posts were positive, negative or neutral.

During March and April, newly detected fake accounts increased up to tenfold, the analysis found.

Out of 94,363 Trump supporting profiles, 12,391 of them were found to be inauthentic. Of Bidens 10,065 supportive accounts, 803 were inauthentic.

The report found that the pro-Trump accounts were pushing two messages, one to Vote for Trump and another that Biden is the worst president the U.S. has ever had.

Cyabra Vice President Rafi Mendelsohn said theres a level of coordination in that messaging, which suggests there is a nefarious objective and a whole operation behind the creation of the accounts.

The accounts supporting Biden were not part of a coordinated campaign, the report said.

While the report did not address where the fake accounts were coming from, the FBI has warned that China, Russia and Iran are among the foreign adversaries that are attempting to influence the 2024 election.

Each adversary has its own approach with interference, but they all aim to sow discord and undermine democracy, an FBI official said earlier this month.

Billionaire Elon Musk bought the platform in 2022, changing the name from Twitter to X and ushering in several changes to the widely used social platform.

Last September, Musk made cuts to Xs election integrity team, which seeks to prevent election interference and manipulation on the platform. The announcement came less than a month after the company said it would expand its safety and elections team to focus on manipulation and inauthentic accounts.

Activist organizations have criticized Musk for the changes made to content moderation on the platform, including the decision to reinstate Trumps account and changes to hate speech policies.

Updated at 9:51 a.m. EDT

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On the evening of May 24, Russian troops shelled Kharkiv and Kharkiv district again. Several explosions were heard, and the enemy used rockets.

ADVERTISIMENT

"Kharkiv and the district, be careful. The enemy is striking," the head of the regional state administration, Oleh Syniehubov, wrote on Telegram.

The alert began at 17:00 on Friday, around the same time the first arrivals were made. The alarm was lifted in the region at 17:40.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov also confirmed the explosions. "Be careful!" he urged Ukrainians in a post on his Telegram channel.

According to unofficial online monitoring communities, the occupiers could have carried out this attack from the territory of the Belgorod region of the Russian Federation.

As previously reported by OBOZ.UA:

 On the morning of May 23, the Russian Federation struck about 15 times in Kharkiv. Seven people were killed and 21 were injured. There was a direct hit on the printing house, and the facilities of "Ukrzaliznytsia" and a utility company were also hit. Zolochiv and Liubotyn in the region were also hit, and there were also victims.

ADVERTISIMENT

 On May 24, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Kharkiv for a visit. He held a meeting on the operational situation in the region and preparations for the heating season and visited the printing house destroyed by the Russians.

 The President noted that this strike shows that Russia is fighting against humanity and all aspects of normal life. As a result of the shelling, people were killed and injured, and 50,000 books were burned.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The shoreline at the Tidal Basin was missing an iconic tree Friday afternoon.

Stumpy, the cherry tree that rose to fame in 2020, no longer was standing in its place as of noon on Friday.

Stumpy the cherry blossom tree on March 14, 2024. (Mariel Carbone/DC News Now)

There was only a fence up where Stumpy the cherry blossom tree used to stand at the Tidal Basin on May 24, 2024. (Randi Bass/DC News Now)

In March, the National Park Service (NPS) announced that Stumpy would have to be removed for seawall construction. Officials said that rising sea levels led to flooding around the Tidal Basin twice a day, which left behind mud and debris. They said that these rising waters also cause damage to trees in the area.

So long, Stumpy: A brief history of the beloved cherry tree

Stumpy rose to fame after a Reddit post on Feb. 26, 2020. It became a tourist sensation and when NPS announced that Stumpy would have to go, visitors flocked to say their goodbyes.

NPS said that this was more of a see you later. The National Arboretum was slated to take parts of the tree and provide genetic matches to plant. NPS said that all trees that are cut down also are turned into mulch for trees around the National Mall.

It protects their roots and eventually becomes soil that supports trees, Mike Litterst, spokesman for NPS National Mall and Memorial Parks, told DC News Now in March.

Stumpy, the famous cherry blossom tree, was removed from the Tidal Basin on May 24, 2024. (Original photo of Stumpy on March 17, 2024.)

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
BOSTON  Families may start getting kicked out of the state's emergency shelter system on Sept. 1, and providers who thought families had until next spring are feeling blindsided.

Asked about the amendment and if lawmakers meant for families to have until next spring in shelters, Senate President Karen Spilka replied, "We will talk to providers and the administration to follow up with that more."

Lawmakers and Gov. Maura Healey passed a law in April limiting how long families can stay in the emergency shelter system for the first time since the program's creation. The limits were approved while leaving the state's right-to-shelter law in place.

The number of families looking to live in state-funded shelters has more than doubled over the last year and a half. With a cap imposed by Healey still in place, more than 750 families are on a waitlist to gain entry into those shelters.

Trying to rein in exploding shelter costs, Senate and House negotiators agreed in April to set a nine-month limit for how long families can stay in the state's emergency shelters, with the option for families to seek up to two 90-day extensions if they are employed, participating in an approved training program or meet one of a slew of other protected criteria.

Legislators wrote that this section of the law would take effect on June 1, and many homelessness service providers assumed families would start hitting their nine-month limit next spring.

But the branch of Healey's administration responsible for writing the regulations required under the law are telling providers that families could be getting notice in the mail as early as next week that they will have to leave by Sept. 1  applying the nine-month limit retroactively from June 1 to the start of 2024.

"We've heard (The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities) and the administration say that the average length of stay is 14 to 16 months. So we're anticipating that thousands of families will be subjected to early termination based on this policy if they're not granted extensions," said Kelly Turley of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless.

The state's most recent report on emergency family shelter said families stay an average 365 days in shelters, though previous estimates have put the average length of stay between 12 and 18 months.

Not all families whose length of stay is at or beyond nine months will be affected immediately, an EOHLC official said, though they did not say how the office will choose which families will be asked to leave first.

"There's thousands of people," said Andrea Park of the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, who along with Turley is in touch with providers across the state. "Who's going to go first? Someone who's been there for a year, 13 months, nine months? How will they prioritize people who could potentially get notices on Sept. 1?"

The law instituting shelter limits also explicitly states that no more than 150 families shall be terminated from the program in a single week, to avoid a situation where thousands of families are turned out of shelter at once. Still, many families could now be bracing to be removed from shelters much sooner than expected with uncertainty around who will be asked to leave and when.

Turley and Park said they believe the limit going into effect on Sept. 1 was not the legislative intent of the law, which does not specify if the policy is retroactive or not.

The News Service asked Sen. Michael Rodrigues, the Senate's lead negotiator on the supplemental budget, whether he intended the limit to be applied retroactively.

"I don't remember," Rodrigues replied.

If senators wanted to clarify their intent to give families a full nine months from when they receive notice of termination to when they're removed, the lawmakers had their opportunity this week.

Sen. Pavel Payano of Lawrence filed an amendment to the Senate's fiscal year 2025 budget, which is being debated this week, to explicitly state that EOHLC should not consider emergency assistance shelter benefits received prior to June 1 in counting toward the nine-month limit.

"The adjustment is especially important for large families, individuals with disabilities and long-term residents facing eviction," Payano said. "Given that the supplemental budget now offers critical services such as job training, legal assistance, and housing support, it is imperative that these families have sufficient time to access and benefit from these resources. This amendment ensures they are afforded a fair opportunity to stabilize their lives without the looming threat of losing their shelter."

Sens. Paul Mark, Adam Gomez, Liz Miranda, Jamie Eldridge, Pat Jehlen, Lydia Edwards and Robyn Kennedy all sponsored the amendment, but it was withdrawn without debate.

Asked about the amendment and if lawmakers meant for families to have until next spring in shelters, Senate President Karen Spilka replied, "We will talk to providers and the administration to follow up with that more."

A spokesperson for Spilka then followed up, saying it was the branchs "understanding that the administration is implementing the provisions of the supplemental budget as they were intended when they were approved by the Legislature."

The House had a similar response when asked Wednesday.

"The intention behind the legislation was to provide the administration with the flexibility necessary to manage the crisis appropriately, while also ensuring that folks in the shelter system have access to the resources that they need in order to eventually exit the system, and to successfully enter the workforce," House Speaker Ron Mariano and House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz said in a statement.

Michlewitz previously said the new shelter policies are intended to make sure people have enough time to use new resources made available in the bill, such as workforce training, English-language teaching services and assistance with rehousing, before they face the nine-month deadline.

"I think it's something that we're certainly concerned about, making sure that people have enough time to get the workforce visas, to be able to get their life in a situation where they can get out of the system," Michlewitz told reporters in April. "But we want to make sure that we have pieces that are in there, that moves it, keeps moving it along in a positive manner as quickly as possible."

He later added during that scrum in April, "We may be in a completely different place nine months from now, so we have to continue to evaluate and make decisions based off of what's in front of us."

Park and Turley said they are hearing from providers that they are staffing up for the administrative effort of processing waivers and renewals, and helping families who don't speak English understand what will happen if they get a notice that they have to leave this fall.

"Those are resources that should be going to housing search and helping people safely find housing," Park said. "Hospitals, providers, everybody understood this was a policy that was going to be implemented in a way that gave us time to scale up immigration support services, clinics, job partnering  these things are actually starting to pay off  but now we're going to put people out before they're ready and local cities and towns and nonprofits are going to bear the brunt of that."

Recent investments in rehousing benefits and shelter supports have yielded a steady uptick in the rate at which families are exiting the emergency shelter system, according to EOHLC.

Over the last five months, 1,208 families have exited shelter: 197 in December, 209 in January, 230 in February, 269 in March and 303 in April, as expanded housing and job placement services have been funded by the state.

"Given the lack of deeply affordable housing, low vacancy rates and other barriers that families are facing, including newly arrived immigrant families who are just getting on their feet here in Massachusetts, we do expect that thousands of families will be negatively impacted. A time limit that's so short is going to set families up for failure," Turley said.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Families could be ousted from Massachusetts shelters Sept. 1
Attendees browse the Daniel Defense firearms booth at the NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas on May 17, 2024. Credit: Azul Sordo for The Texas Tribune

Several Uvalde families are suing Daniel Defense, the gun company whose AR-15 style rifle an 18-year-old gunman used to kill 19 children and two teachers and injure several others at Robb Elementary two years ago, lawyers said.

The family members of victims Friday also filed a separate lawsuit against California-based companies Meta  the parent company of Instagram and Facebook  and Activision, whose best-selling video game Call of Duty features Daniel Defense guns.

The lawsuits together will argue that the three companies marketed semi-automatic weapons to the Uvalde gunman before he was 18, accusing them of negligence and wrongful death. The shooter purchased firearms shortly after he turned 18 years old and then used one of those guns to carry out the deadliest school shooting in Texas history.

In Texas, 18-year-olds can legally purchase long guns such as rifles.

Josh Koskoff, an attorney representing the Uvalde families, says there was a direct line between the companies' conduct and the Uvalde shooting.

Just 23 minutes after midnight on his 18th birthday, the Uvalde shooter bought an AR-15 made by a company with a market share of less than one percent, Koskoff said in a statement. Why? Because, well before he was old enough to purchase it, he was targeted and cultivated online by Instagram, Activision and Daniel Defense. This three-headed monster knowingly exposed him to the weapon, conditioned him to see it as a tool to solve his problems and trained him to use it.

The lawsuits come on the two-year anniversary of the shooting.

Attorneys argue that Daniel Defense intentionally markets its weapons to adolescents and uses platforms including Instagram and first-person shooter games like Call of Duty to promote criminal use of their weapons.

They add that Instagram provides an unsupervised channel to speak directly to adolescent boys because of what attorneys say are flimsy and easily circumvented rules meant to prohibit firearm advertising to children.

The lawsuit against Daniel Defense is expected to be filed in Texas 38th District Court in Uvalde County on behalf of 31 family members of the victims. It accuses Daniel Defense of courting the shooter with marketing that lures adolescents into forming an attachment with its brand of AR-15s, particularly its flagship DDM4v7.

The lawsuit against Activision and Meta was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on behalf of approximately 45 family members of the deceased and injured victims. It accuses the gaming company of desensitizing young men to acts of mass violence and grooming them to seek out weapons like those featured in Call of Duty.An Activision spokesperson did not respond to questions about the allegations in the lawsuit but issued a statement expressing their condolences to the victims families.

The Uvalde shooting was horrendous and heartbreaking in every way, and we express our deepest sympathies to the families and communities who remain impacted by this senseless act of violence, the spokesperson said. Millions of people around the world enjoy video games without turning to horrific acts.

However, the Entertainment Software Association, which represents top publishers in the gaming industry, denounced efforts to blame video games for real-life acts of violence.

We are saddened and outraged by senseless acts of violence, said an association spokesperson. At the same time, we discourage baseless accusations linking these tragedies to video gameplay, which detract from efforts to focus on the root issues in question and safeguard against future tragedies. Many other countries have similar rates of video gameplay to the United States, yet do not see similar rates of gun violence.

Representatives for Daniel Defense and Meta did not respond to emailed requests for comment.

While Instagram prohibits the marketing of firearms on its platform, the lawsuit claims Instagram fails to enforce firearm guidelines while rigorously enforcing other types of content guidelines.

The Uvalde families legal action appears to follow a similar playbook that Koskoff, a Connecticut attorney, successfully employed in his home state, where he helped victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting win a $73 million settlement in a lawsuit against the maker of the AR-15 style rifle used in that school shooting.

That settlement was widely considered a setback for the firearms industry, which has broad legal immunity from civil complaints. A 2005 law enacted by Congress shields gun companies from liability for crimes committed using their weapons. Koskoffs team worked around that by successfully arguing that the gun company could be sued under a consumer protection state law, through an exception to the federal law.

Over the course of the Connecticut case, documents came out through the discovery process showing that gun company Remington has a licensing agreement with Activision. It is not clear if such an agreement exists between Daniel Defense and Activision.

A 2019 Instagram post from Daniel Defense says Call of Duty Modern Warfare launched today and shows a photo of the type of rifle used in the Uvalde shooting.

Other Instagram posts from Daniel Defense show videos of young men actively firing the companys rifle. A 2020 Instagram post shows an image of someone taking a gun out of the trunk of their car and the words refuse to be a victim.

Gun companies like Daniel Defense dont act alone, Koskoff said. AR-15s were available when many of us were growing up, but we didnt have mass shootings by kids. What has changed is that companies like Instagram and Activision do more than just allow gun companies to reach consumersthey underwrite and mainstream violence to struggling adolescents.

This is not the first lawsuit families have filed against Daniel Defense. Uvalde victims families previously filed two lawsuits against the Georgia-based gun manufacturer, alleging that the company intentionally marketed its AR-15 rifles to young males in ways that encourage the illegal and dangerous misuse of its weapons.

Daniel Defense has sought to dismiss those lawsuits, which were filed in federal court and remain ongoing.

In the two years since the Robb Elementary School shooting, state and local law enforcement officers have been heavily criticized for their response to the massacre. Hundreds of law enforcement officers descended upon the school and waited for more than an hour to confront the gunman, who shot indiscriminately inside two fourth grade classrooms.

The botched response was the subject of a U.S. Department of Justice report and a scathing Texas House Committee investigation. A grand jury convened by Uvalde District Attorney Christina Mitchell could determine whether any federal, state and local officers are criminally charged.

On Wednesday, Uvalde families  represented by Koskoff  filed a lawsuit against 92 Texas Department of Public Safety Officers. They also announced a $2 million settlement with the city of Uvalde. During a press briefing on the day of that announcement, Koskoff foreshadowed that additional lawsuits would be filed on behalf of Uvalde families, including some lawsuits focusing on the time period before the shooting.

There has been, appropriately, so much of a focus on law enforcement, Koskoff told reporters earlier this week. And, I think its appropriate to remember that they are at the end of the road.

Koskoff noted that the 610-page DOJ report included not a single page on why the shooting happened in the first place.

The number of semi-automatic rifles, which include AR-15s, produced or imported in the U.S. have increased significantly since the 1990s. AR-15-style rifles werent used in mass shootings until 2007, according to a database kept by Mother Jones. In 2022, gunmen used an AR-15 rifle in 67% of the 12 massacres that year.

The AR-15 was designed in the late 1950s as a military-style rifle.

Officers who responded to the Robb Elementary School shooting feared the rifle and decided to not immediately confront the gunman, a Texas Tribune investigation found. Officers instead waited for a Border Patrol SWAT team based 60 miles away to arrive.

Uvalde families pushed the state Legislature to pass a bill to raise the minimum age for buying certain semi-automatic rifles from 18 to 21. That bill failed to pass in the Republican-controlled Legislature that has spent years loosening gun laws, making it easier for Texans to get guns in a state whose residents have a strong fealty to the Second Amendment.

Disclosure: Facebook 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.

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(Texas Tribune)  Several Uvalde families are suing Daniel Defense, the gun company whose AR-15 style rifle an 18-year-old gunman used to kill 19 children and two teachers and injure several others at Robb Elementary two years ago, lawyers said.

The family members of victims Friday also filed a separate lawsuit against California-based companies Meta  the parent company of Instagram and Facebook  and Activision, whose best-selling video game Call of Duty features Daniel Defense guns.

RELATED | Uvalde families sue Texas DPS officers, reach settlement with city

The lawsuits together will argue that the three companies marketed semi-automatic weapons to the Uvalde gunman before he was 18, accusing them of negligence and wrongful death. The shooter purchased firearms shortly after he turned 18 years old and then used one of those guns to carry out the deadliest school shooting in Texas history.

In Texas, 18-year-olds can legally purchase long guns such as rifles.

Josh Koskoff, an attorney representing the Uvalde families, says there was a direct line between the companies conduct and the Uvalde shooting.

Just 23 minutes after midnight on his 18th birthday, the Uvalde shooter bought an AR-15 made by a company with a market share of less than one percent, Koskoff said in a statement. Why? Because, well before he was old enough to purchase it, he was targeted and cultivated online by Instagram, Activision and Daniel Defense. This three-headed monster knowingly exposed him to the weapon, conditioned him to see it as a tool to solve his problems and trained him to use it.

The lawsuits come on the two-year anniversary of the shooting.

RELATED | Two years later, Uvalde searches for peace

Attorneys argue that Daniel Defense intentionally markets its weapons to adolescents and uses platforms including Instagram and first-person shooter games like Call of Duty to promote criminal use of their weapons.

They add that Instagram provides an unsupervised channel to speak directly to adolescent boys because of what attorneys say are flimsy and easily circumvented rules meant to prohibit firearm advertising to children.

The lawsuit against Daniel Defense is expected to be filed in Texas 38th District Court in Uvalde County on behalf of 31 family members of the deceased and injured victims. It accuses Daniel Defense of courting the shooter with marketing that lures adolescents into forming an attachment with its brand of AR-15s, particularly its flagship DDM4v7.

The lawsuit against Activision and Meta was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on behalf of approximately 45 family members of the victims. It accuses the gaming company of desensitizing young men to acts of mass violence and grooming them to seek out weapons like those featured in Call of Duty. While Instagram prohibits the marketing of firearms on its platform, the lawsuit claims Instagram fails to enforce firearm guidelines while rigorously enforcing other types of content guidelines.

The Uvalde families legal action appears to follow a similar playbook that Koskoff, a Connecticut attorney, successfully employed in his home state, where he helped victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting win a $73 million settlement in a lawsuit against the maker of the AR-15 style rifle used in that school shooting.

That settlement was widely considered a setback for the firearms industry, which has broad legal immunity from civil complaints. A 2005 law enacted by Congress shields gun companies from liability for crimes committed using their weapons. Koskoffs team worked around that by successfully arguing that the gun company could be sued under a consumer protection state law, through an exception to the federal law.

Over the course of the Connecticut case, documents came out through the discovery process showing that gun company Remington has a licensing agreement with Activision. It is not clear if such an agreement exists between Daniel Defense and Activision.

A 2019 Instagram post from Daniel Defense says Call of Duty Modern Warfare launched today and shows a photo of the type of rifle used in the Uvalde shooting.

Other Instagram posts from Daniel Defense show videos of young men actively firing the companys rifle. A 2020 Instagram post shows an image of someone taking a gun out of the trunk of their car and the words refuse to be a victim.

Gun companies like Daniel Defense dont act alone, Koskoff said. AR-15s were available when many of us were growing up, but we didnt have mass shootings by kids. What has changed is that companies like Instagram and Activision do more than just allow gun companies to reach consumersthey underwrite and mainstream violence to struggling adolescents.

This is not the first lawsuit families have filed against Daniel Defense. Uvalde victims families previously filed two lawsuits against the Georgia-based gun manufacturer, alleging that the company intentionally marketed its AR-15 rifles to young males in ways that encourage the illegal and dangerous misuse of its weapons.

Daniel Defense has sought to dismiss those lawsuits, which were filed in federal court and remain ongoing.

In the two years since the Robb Elementary School shooting, state and local law enforcement officers have been heavily criticized for their response to the massacre. Hundreds of law enforcement officers descended upon the school and waited for more than an hour to confront the gunman, who shot indiscriminately inside two fourth grade classrooms.

The botched response was the subject of a U.S. Department of Justice report and a scathing Texas House Committee investigation. A grand jury convened by Uvalde District Attorney Christina Mitchell could determine whether any federal, state and local officers are criminally charged.

On Wednesday, Uvalde families  represented by Koskoff  filed a lawsuit against 92 Texas Department of Public Safety Officers. They also announced a $2 million settlement with the city of Uvalde. During a press briefing on the day of that announcement, Koskoff foreshadowed that additional lawsuits would be filed on behalf of Uvalde families, including some lawsuits focusing on the time period before the shooting.

There has been, appropriately, so much of a focus on law enforcement, Koskoff told reporters earlier this week. And, I think its appropriate to remember that they are at the end of the road.

Koskoff noted that the 610-page DOJ report included not a single page on why the shooting happened in the first place.

The number of semi-automatic rifles, which include AR-15s, produced or imported in the U.S. have increased significantly since the 1990s. AR-15-style rifles werent used in mass shootings until 2007, according to a database kept by Mother Jones. In 2022, gunmen used an AR-15 rifle in 67% of the 12 massacres that year.

The AR-15 was designed in the late 1950s as a military-style rifle. Compared to its predecessors, the AR-15 fired bullets faster and with greater accuracy.

Officers who responded to the Robb Elementary School shooting feared the rifle and decided to not immediately confront the gunman, a Texas Tribune investigation found. Officers instead waited for a Border Patrol SWAT team based 60 miles away to arrive.

Uvalde families pushed the state Legislature to pass a bill to raise the minimum age for buying certain semi-automatic rifles from 18 to 21. That bill failed to pass in the Republican-controlled Legislature that has spent years loosening gun laws, making it easier for Texans to get guns in a state whose residents have a strong fealty to the Second Amendment.

This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at www.texastribune.org. The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Stephen Peterman, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps for about 20 years, was killed on May 20, 2024, after he went outside to walk his dog and saw someone attempting to break into his vehicle.

Stephen "Steve" Peterman, a former first sergeant of the U.S. Marine Corps and the man killed in Northwest Austin on Monday, was remembered by his family as having a servant's heart with a love for his family, faith and country.

"We want the world to know that he was a good, powerful, solid man," said his father, Ben Peterman. "He had no qualms about helping anybody who needed it, so he's going to be one man that's going to be missed. But I think that's a good legacy to leave behind: that you are known for being helpful and known for being a good man."

Stephen Peterman, 49, was shot multiple times outside of his Northwest Austin home by a stranger at about 4 a.m. on May 20 when he was taking his dog for a walk and noticed someone was attempting to break into his work truck, according to a copy of charging documents used to arrest William Jewel Daniels in connection to the killing.

Detective Jennifer Boland with the Travis County sheriff's office noted in the charging documents that Stephen Peterman's wife said it was normal for him to walk the dog in the early hours of the morning.

His wife, Nona Peterman, told the sheriff's office she was awakened by the sound of gunshots and then saw her husband wasn't in bed. When she went outside, she saw the dog sitting by the front door, according to charging documents.

Surveillance footage from a nearby residence captured the sound of six gunshots, as well as a fleeing vehicle with a license plate that was connected to Daniels, a 36-year-old from San Antonio. The sheriff's office arrested Daniels about 12 hours after the shooting.

The sheriff's office charged Daniels with murder, and he was in the Travis County Jail with a $1 million bond as of Thursday.

A life of service

Stephen Peterman was originally from Illinois and the older brother of two sisters. As the son of a preacher, he lived all over the place, Ben Peterman said.

Recalling his son's "mischievous" ways, Ben Peterman described a time when Stephen Peterman, then in high school, was firing off bottle rockets from a PVC pipe. Ben Peterman told him to stop firing those fireworks into the street.

Not listening to his father, Stephen Peterman lit one just at a moment when a UPS truck driver came by. The bottle rocket flew right through the open doors of the delivery truck and right by the driver, barely missing him, his father recalled, laughing as he told the story.

"We laughed about it later," Ben Peterman said. "He had a good sense of humor. ... I will miss that from him."

Becky Peterman, his mother, said her son was in the U.S. Marine Corps for about 20 years, including three tours overseas, two of them during the Iraq War.

Both of his parents said he always had a fascination with military history and read avidly about battles and wars, particularly World War II. As soon as he graduated from high school in 1993, he joined the Marines.

The U.S. Marine Corps told the Statesman that Stephen Peterman served in active duty from 1993 until 2004. After leaving active duty, he joined the Marine Corps Reserves, which he was in until 2016, when he received an honorable discharge.

Stephen Peterman was deployed three separate times, once to Kosovo in 1999 and then to Iraq in 2003 and again in 2007.

During his time in the Marines, he achieved the rank of first sergeant.

Stephen Peterman moved to Austin for his job with a natural gas company in 2018. Becky Peterman said he loved animals and would keep cat food outside of his home to feed the raccoons and possums.

Stephen Peterman was a devout Christian, his parents said, and it was because of this faith that he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

"He tried to live his faith," Beth Peterman said. "He was loving, kind. He was a servant. He liked to help other people."

Stephen Peterman leaves behind a wife and a 7-year-old son. Nona Peterman said she did not want to be interviewed for this story. She started a GoFundMe to help pay for bills as her husband was the sole breadwinner of the family with her being a stay-at-home mom.

"Tragically, this week, our lives were shattered in an unimaginable way," she wrote on the GoFundMe page. "Stephen was senselessly murdered, shot right in front of our home while he was taking our dog for a walk. In an instant, our world was turned upside down, and the pillar of our family was taken from us."

Stephen Peterman is survived by his wife of 11 years, Nona Peterman; his children, Mark Peterman, Stan Zabroda, Darien Hall and Melissa Babson Peterman; his parents, Ben and Becky Peterman; two sisters, Rachel Eldridge and Hannah Smith; a niece, Grace Smith; and a granddaughter, Bekah Babson.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Family remembers man killed in Northwest Austin as 'loving, kind'
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  A month and a half after a 17-year-old was hit by a Kent County deputys cruiser during a foot chase, his family has yet to see video of the incident or a police report.

Its really hard to fully grieve the process without knowing what happened, knowing why it happened, said Becky Wilbert, the mother of Riley Doggett.

Teen dies weeks after being hit by deputys cruiser

Her son was struck in Wyoming on April 8 when Kent County sheriffs deputies tried to pull over a vehicle they believed was stolen and connected to several crimes in the county. According to the teens death certificate, Doggett suffered a traumatic brain injury. He spent a month at Helen DeVos Childrens Hospital and died on May 9.

Riley was a good kid. Regardless of what happened, he was a good kid, Wilbert said during a press conference Friday morning, ahead of Doggetts funeral.

Family and supporters hold a press conference ahead of Riley Doggetts funeral on May 24, 2024.

Police: Chase that injured teen was second of night for suspected car thieves

Though funerals often offer a bit of closure for loved ones, Doggetts family is far from it.

We dont have answers, so its really hard, his mother said. Like, yes, were closing one part of this story, but theres so much more to it. Until we know what happened  exactly what happened and why, I dont think were all going to be able to grieve properly.

Attorney Ven Johnson, who is representing the family along with civil rights attorney Ben Crump, called it shameful and disrespectful that the video of the incident has not been released to the family or the public.

Before the four-year anniversary of George Floyds death, I think it is horribly, horribly ironic, Johnson said during the press conference.

Record: Death of teen hit by cruiser an accident

Johnson also referenced the case of Patrick Lyoya, in which Grand Rapids police released video of the shooting a week and a half after it happened. Video of Samuel Sterling, being hit by an unmarked MSP cruiser nine days after Doggett, was released a little more than three weeks later.

The public deserves to know. If theres not a video, which there is, then tell us that and tell us why not and then hold the officer accountable if there isnt, Johnson said. And they should have had one. Thats if. If there isnt video, which you all know there is, if its bad for you and your side should not be a deciding factor on how long you can hold on to it.

Thats why hes now calling on the Michigan legislature to amend the Freedom of Information Act request law.

I think that our public officials should have no more than 14 days after an event to release the videos, and then its out of their hands. They should not be allowed to hide this from the families, hide this from the public. These are public documents. These are public-owned pieces of equipment that record for a reason, said Johnson. If were going to use this T word transparency in every one of these situations, how about we actually mean it and we put our actions where our mouths are?

Family looks for answers after 17-year-old hit by sheriffs vehicle

On June 5, Johnson, former Kent County Commissioner Robert S. Womack and several others will hold a rally at the capitol in Lansing to demand justice for Sterling.

A lot of what were going to ask for is also going to be to support the Doggett family. Because when it comes to the juvenile records, when it comes to the FOIA request, when it comes to disrespecting of the family, we need legislature to step in to make sure that these families are treated fair, Womack said.

The Kent County Sheriffs Office previously said Doggett was unintentionally struck and that it was a direct result of the inherent risk accompanying the serious criminal activity that Riley was engaged in during the weeks and months leading up to this incident.

Reports: Police watched group before teen hit by cruiser during chase

Johnson argued thats not for them to decide.

(Doggetts) family would be the first ones to tell you that if, if thats what he was doing and if there were charges, he should have faced the consequences. Theyd be the first ones to admit that, Johnson said. But what he didnt deserve was somebody being judge, jury, and execution with that car and running them over.

A private autopsy has been conducted, Johnson said, and he is awaiting the results.

Wilbert said almost all the information shes learned about her son and his death has come from news reporting.

Ive asked the Michigan State Police when theyve called for medical updates but they dont, they didnt want to give me any information, Wilbert said.

Family of teen hit by deputy: No reason video isnt out

State police investigated the death. Now, its up to Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker to decide if the deputy who hit Doggett will face criminal charges. That deputy is on paid administrative leave amid the investigation.

News 8 asked Becker Friday why the family hasnt been given updates on the case. In an email, Becker wrote that its an ongoing process and that his office has been working on it with MSP.

Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said Friday that she expects the video will be released when the prosecutor makes a ruling. Becker said he did not have a timeline on when that might happen.

Doggetts funeral will be held at 5 p.m. Friday at Stroo Funeral Home at 1095 68th St. SE in Grand Rapids.

Johnson asked for the publics thoughts and prayers.

Lets live by the golden rule. Please act in a way of how you would want someone to treat you, God forbid, if this ever happened to you and your child. Doesnt make anything that Riley did or didnt do right or wrong, what it makes is that the family not be punished for it now, Johnson said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Family sues Disney for $50K after man finds fiancee unconscious at the end of Humunga Kowabunga water slide

Walt Disney Parks has been sued by a woman who alleges she lost consciousness and suffered a brain injury after riding a slide at Typhoon lagoon (Disney)

Walt Disney Parks has been sued by a woman who alleges she lost consciousness and suffered a brain injury after riding a giant water slide at Typhoon Lagoon.

Laura Reyes-Merino is seeking $50,000 in damages and claims in court papers that the park was negligent for failing to maintain the ride.

Lawyers for Ms Reyes-Merino state that she was injured when she rode a tube on the Humunga Kowabunga ride on 11 May at the Florida theme park.

It is described in the lawsuit as a 60-degree angle, 214-foot, downhill and enclosed body slide. She alleges that she fell unconscious on it due to the banging inside the slide.

Court papers state that her fiance and his mother found her limp body at the end of the ride and frantically asked the attendants to help.

Those attendants said that they were not lifeguards and would have to find someone to help. Meanwhile, the womans fiance pulled her from the water while that help was on its way.

Eventually a lifeguard came and said they couldnt help or touch Plaintiff either and called an ambulance, court documents state.

Had Defendant had lifeguards at the end of the ride to watch and help guests coming off the ride, Plaintiffs brain injury would not have occurred as she wouldnt have been drowning in the water coughing up blood.

The Independent has contacted Walt Disney Parks for comment.
DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN)  A restaurant known for cheap but beloved fast food is in the talks to open in Dothan.

Rumors that Cook Out would come to Dothan began circulating on social media after the company added the Circle City to its Coming Soon! restaurant location list.

The companys website shows the new location as 3354 Montgomery Highway, in the old Popeyes in front of Wiregrass Commons Mall.

WDHN has reached out to a company spokesperson for an exact opening date.

Dothans Cook Out will be the twelfth location in Alabama, with three other locations set to open this year.

Cook Out is known for its affordable burgers, chicken, hot dogs, shakes, and other fast food items.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has appealed a decision to drop charges in the 41-count indictment against former President Donald Trump and several co-conspirators in her Georgia election interference case. This comes after the Georgia Court of Appeals said it would consider Trump's motion to kick Willis off the case.

Prosecutors have accused Trump and some of his co-defendants allege of seeking to illegally demanding that Georgia officials convene a special legislative session to appoint pro-Trump electors as part of their scheme to steal the 2020 election. Although they were charged with the crime of "Solicitation of Violation of Oath by Public Office," Fulton County Superior Judge Scott McAfee ruled in March that the charge should be dropped due to a lack of sufficient detail in their indictment. However, he noted that prosecutors could pursue a new indictment with the charges reinstated.

Trump was directly named in three of the dismissed counts related to his effort, per prosecutors, to pressure Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensberger and unlawfully influence the certified election returns."

Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges. But because of the delays already, Willis decision to file an appeal and try to reinstate some charges suggests that the case is unlikely to go to trial before the November election.

In some ways, its an implicit concession that its not going to happen before November, Anthony Freis, a Georgia State University law professor closely following the case, told The New York Times.
Jeremy Corbyn

In one way, and in one way only, Jeremy Corbyns expulsion from the Labour Party was not his fault.

He was suspended from the Parliamentary Labour Party in 2020 after his ham-fisted response to the conclusions of the Equality and Human Rights Commissions (EHRC) inquiry into anti-Semitism in the party under his leadership. The media had exaggerated the problem, Corbyn suggested, thereby minimising the entire issue that had caused so much angst and upset for Jewish party members and many others.

But why should he have had any reason to believe that the new leadership of the party would take such comments seriously? As Corbyn himself could attest, it was possible to say and believe virtually anything and yet be immune to any disciplinary action by the party.

At the end of his very first term as an MP, during the 1987 general election campaign, Corbyn had been reported in the press as having attended a memorial event at Conway House in London to commemorate eight IRA terrorists shot dead by security forces as they sought to bomb Loughall police station in County Armagh. Im happy to commemorate all those who died fighting for an independent Ireland, the Islington North MP is reported as saying when he was challenged about his attendance.

This was only a year after Corbyn was arrested outside the Old Bailey for protesting the trial of the Brighton bomber who murdered five people and injured dozens more at the Conservative Party conference in 1984. All of this occurred more than a decade before the final IRA ceasefire, while British citizens and soldiers were still being targeted for their political beliefs.

And yet Corbyn was allowed to remain as a Labour candidate and went on to wear the partys colours in nine more general elections. So why on earth would he imagine that speaking his mind, undermining the EHRCs report, belittling those who had suffered from his supporters anti-Semitism, could possibly lead to disciplinary action against him?

The injustice of Corbyns case is not that he was unfairly removed as a Labour Party candidate; it was that he was not dismissed as a candidate after his first term in office.

So what happens next? He has announced he will stand against whoever the party selects as the official Labour candidate, a statement which precipitated his formal expulsion today. This is a long-standing and uncontroversial rule, one which Corbyn himself, as leader, saw no reason to seek to change.

Since 1997 the fate of independent candidates standing against the might of the main parties has improved somewhat. Martin Bell beat the incumbent Conservative MP, Neil Hamilton that year, thanks to the decision of the other parties to stand aside. Such a favour was not granted to Dr Richard Taylor, who nevertheless went on to win the Wyre Forest constituency off Labour in 2001 and held on until 2010.

But perhaps the most relevant precedent  and the most promising in terms of Corbyns chances  is Dennis Canavan. The former Labour MP was spitefully and bizarrely denied the right to stand as a Labour candidate for the first Scottish Parliament elections in 1999, despite having campaigned harder and longer for devolution than any of his colleagues. So he stood as an independent, inviting expulsion from the party and securing a larger majority than any MSP elected that year, confounding the expectations of his Labour Party detractors.

The odds might be against Corbyn winning his current seat against a Labour challenger, but such a prospect should not be ruled out. Stranger things have happened many times in the last 30 years. And by all accounts, Corbyns blend of bland aphorisms and one-dimensional political sloganising goes down well with a large proportion of Islington voters.

And if he does become the independent MP for Islington North, so what? Without his former party, sitting alone on the opposition benches next to the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and whatevers left of the SNP, he will be an isolated figure, still making the same speeches hes been making for more than 40 years, still persuading no one other than himself.

If the polls are accurate, one less seat in London will have no impact on Keir Starmers majority anyway. And even if he had been allowed to retain the Labour whip and stand as a Labour candidate, Corbyn as a Labour MP could be expected to vote against the next Labour government no less frequently than he would as an independent.

Keir Starmer was the first Labour leader to run out of patience with Corbyn. That is to his credit, and much to the discredit of all his predecessors as leader who opted for the quiet life instead of confronting and ending the appalling behaviour of a man who should never have been an MP in the first place.

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On the morning of May 23rd, the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair opened at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center. The Anhui delegation, themed "The Splendor of Ancient and Modern Times, and the Future of Science and Innovation," organized 66 cultural units (enterprises) to participate in the exhibition. Gathering star enterprises and the latest achievements, it showcased the cultural style, technological trend, and strength of "cultural Anhui" in the new era to the world. The Anhui Pavilion is located in Hall 11 of the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, covering an area of 1,287 square meters. It is divided into three sections: thematic exhibits, integrated development achievements, and the "Trendy Anhui Collection." The thematic exhibits, using Lingjiatan culture as a starting point, explore the integration and development of Anhui's culture with science and technology, tourism, architecture, and other fields from ancient times to the present. They use digital technology to display the continuous inheritance and innovation of Anhui culture. The integrated development achievements section highlights brands and models, focusing on showcasing Anhui's innovative products, cultural landmarks, typical cases, leading enterprises, and park bases in cultural and technological innovation, cultural and tourism integration, and cultural service upgrades in recent years. The "Trendy Anhui Collection" creates a creative market that highlights the unique charm of Anhui. Through themed scene design, it builds an immersive experience space to present the achievements of Anhui's cultural heritage and innovation. It sells Anhui's cultural and creative products and intangible cultural heritage items, demonstrating and experiencing related craftsmanship. The China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair serves as an important platform for the "cultural Anhui" to set sail overseas. Classic Huangmei Opera duets, Xuan paper-making skills demonstrations, and Wangmantian fish lantern performances, among others, present the unique charm of Anhui. The spacious Anhui Pavilion welcomes waves of enthusiastic visitors who come to experience and interact, as well as groups of Chinese and foreign guests who come to discuss cooperation. The 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair will continue until May 27th. During this period, the Anhui delegation will actively carry out investment promotion and talent introduction activities under the theme "Work Together to Create Splendor." They aim to continuously optimize the province's cultural industry structure, improve the industrial chain, cultivate and strengthen market entities, and promote the high-quality development of the cultural industry.

Source: Anhui Daily
Ukraine's Security Service has served a notice of suspicion to Valentyna Matvienko, an ally of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation. A native of Ukraine, she authorized Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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Matvienko personally signed the decision of the upper house of the Russian parliament to send Russian troops to Ukraine and approved the ratification of the so-called agreements on the "accession" of the temporarily occupied territories of four regions of our country to the aggressor state. The SBU provided details.

"The Security Service has documented new crimes committed by Valentyna Matvienko, the Chairman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, who facilitates the Russian war against Ukraine. The suspect is a member of Putin's inner circle of associates and authorized the full-scale invasion of Russia," the statement said.

Thus, it was Matvienko who signed the decision of the upper house of the Russian parliament to bring the aggressor country's troops into the territory of Ukraine. She also approved the ratification of agreements on the "accession" of the temporarily occupied parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions to the Russian Federation.

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"It has now been established that Matvienko coordinates the spread of the Kremlin regime in these territories of Ukraine under the guise of their integration into the 'legislative field' of Russia," the SBU said.

In addition, Matvienko publicly spreads fakes about the Ukrainian Defense Forces and the situation at the front. In her numerous appearances on Russian state propaganda TV channels, she denies the existence of Ukraine as an independent and sovereign state. Matvienko, who was born in Ukraine, also calls for the complete occupation of our country.

As part of the proceedings, the SBU initiated a forensic linguistic examination, the conclusions of which formed the basis for suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Thus, Matvienko is charged with crimes under Part 3 of Article 110 (encroachment on the territorial integrity and inviolability of Ukraine) and Part 3 of Article 436-2 (justification, recognition of the legitimacy of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, glorification of its participants).

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This is not the first suspicion that a former Ukrainian woman from Putin's inner circle has received. Previously, she was notified of suspicion in absentia, in particular, for incitement to start and wage an aggressive war.

"Since the offender is in the territory of the Russian Federation, comprehensive measures are being taken to bring her to justice for crimes against our state. The investigation was conducted under the procedural guidance of the Prosecutor General's Office," the statement said.

Earlier, the SBU served a notice of suspicion to Yuriy Bardash. The musician and producer of the Gryby and Wellboy projects, who is in Russia, called for the occupation of Kyiv and Kharkiv.

Thus, Bardash is suspected of publicly calling for a violent change in the constitutional order, as well as distributing materials calling for such actions. In addition, he distributed materials calling for changes in the boundaries of the territory in violation of the procedure established by the Constitution of Ukraine.

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The traitor, who is from Alchevsk, responded to the suspicion by saying that he "serves Russia."

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
Fate of Missouri man imprisoned for more than 30 years is now in the hands of a judge

ST. LOUIS (AP)  A St. Louis judge will soon decide the fate of a Missouri man who has spent more than three decades in prison for a killing he says he didnt commit.

Christopher Dunn was convicted of first-degree murder in the 1990 shooting death of 15-year-old Ricco Rogers. St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore believes Dunn was wrongfully convicted, and requested a hearing before Judge Jason Sengheiser. It concluded Wednesday.

In this case, your honor, there simply remains no evidence at all, Gore said, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

The Missouri Attorney Generals Office opposed the effort to vacate Dunns conviction. Lawyers for the state said that initial testimony from two boys at the scene who said Dunn was the shooter was correct, even though they later recanted as adults.

That verdict was accurate, and that verdict should stand, said Assistant Attorney General Tristin Estep.

Both sides will now submit written arguments to Sengheiser. It isnt clear when he will decide.

A Missouri law adopted in 2021 allows prosecutors to request hearings when they see evidence of a wrongful conviction. Gore filed a motion in February seeking to vacate the guilty verdict, citing clear and convincing evidence of Christopher Dunns actual innocence.

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While Attorney General Andrew Baileys office is not required to oppose such efforts, he also opposed another major effort in St. Louis when Lamar Johnson was freed last year after serving 28 years for a murder a judge ruled he was wrongfully convicted of.

Dunn was convicted based largely on the testimony of 14-year-old DeMorris Stepp and 12-year-old Michael Davis Jr., who said they witnessed the shooting but later recanted.

Rogers was shot to death on May 18, 1990, when a gunman opened fire while he was with a group of other teenage boys outside of a home. Davis and Stepp immediately claimed Dunn was the shooter.

In a recorded interview played Tuesday in court, Davis said he lied because he thought Dunn was affiliated with a rival gang.

Stepps story has changed a few times over the years, Gore said at Wednesdays hearing. He has most recently said he did not see Dunn as the shooter. Gore said another judge previously found Stepp to be a completely unreliable witness and urged Sengheiser to discount him altogether.

Dunn has said he was at his mothers home at the time of the shooting. Childhood friend Nicole Bailey testified that she spoke with Dunn by phone that night. She said Dunn was speaking on a phone at his mothers house.

Estep, the assistant attorney general, said Dunns alibi could not be trusted. She said his story has shifted multiple times over the years. Dunn did not testify at the hearing.

The 2021 law has resulted in the the release of two men who each spent decades in prison. In addition to Johnson, Kevin Strickland was freed in 2021 after more than 40 years for three killings in Kansas City after a judge ruled he had been wrongfully convicted in 1979.

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A Fayetteville man was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing methamphetamine on Monday, May 20.

Ulysses Bush, 44 (Courtesy of Washington County)

Various law enforcement agencies were alerted to Ulysses Bush, 44, allegedly distributing substantial amounts of methamphetamine across Northwest Arkansas, according to a news release from the United States Attorneys Office. From November 2022 to January 2023, law enforcement carried out several controlled buys of methamphetamine from Bush.

Bush faced charges for possessing more than two pounds of methamphetamine after the combined aftermath of the controlled buys, traffic stops and the storage unit raid, according to court documents.

NWA doctor accused of sexual assault allowed to leave country for fifth time

According to Ark Behavioral Health, one gram of crystal meth sells for an average of $20 to $60 dollars. The quantity Bush was responsible for could potentially be valued anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000.

Bush was arrested on April 6, 2023, for possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest, according to Washington County detention reports.

In April 2023, the 4th Judicial District Drug Task Force conducted a search warrant on a Fayetteville storage unit leased by Bush. During this operation, officers found more methamphetamine, fentanyl pills, body armor and a firearm, a news release says.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building is five stories tall with numerous windows. A plaza stretches before it, with concrete columns to prevent cars from driving in.

The Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and United States Courthouse in Montgomery, Alabama, seen on January 24, 2023. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

A federal judge Thursday weighed arguments on whether to move to a trial over Alabamas ban on gender-affirming medical care for individuals under the age of 19.

During a roughly three-and-half-hour hearing Thursday, attorneys for the state and for transgender children and their families suing over the law considered the merits of moving forward while circuit courts around the country consider similar laws with different conclusions, and whether a trial over Alabamas law could move forward as planned or be delayed.

Alabamas 2022 law makes it a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, for physicians to prescribe puberty blockers or hormones to transgender youth under the age of 19. SB 184, sponsored by Sen. Shay Shelnutt, R-Trussville, also banned reconstructive surgery and genital surgeries on minors, which providers have stressed do not happen in Alabama.

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The families that filed suit said the ban would jeopardize the physical and psychological health of their children. The state repeatedly questioned the effectiveness of the treatments.

Following a two-day hearing in 2022, U.S. District Judge Liles C. Burke issued a preliminary injunction against the law, ruling that it interfered with parental rights.

The state appealed to the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, where a federal panel reversed the injunction. U.S. Circuit Judge Barbara Lagoa, whose ruling cited the U.S. Supreme Courts 2022 Dobbs decision overturning federal abortion rights, wrote that earlier rulings did not establish that parents have a derivative fundamental right to obtain a particular medical treatment for their children as long as a critical mass of medical professionals approve.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs in the case moved for an en banc hearing where the entire 11th Circuit would hear the case. The full circuit had not ruled on the motion as of Thursday afternoon.

In Burkes court on Thursday, Jeff Doss, an attorney for the plaintiffs, said that the decision to go to trial was a purely discretionary one for the court. The attorney said the full 11th Circuit  covering Alabama, Georgia and Florida  may not have the votes for the en banc hearing but said the court might not want active machinery until we see there are further developments.

The motion for the stay filed by the plaintiffs on May 3 also referenced waiting to see if pending cases in Tennessee and Kentucky were taken up by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Burke told Doss to be trial ready for a regular track, but told Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour, arguing for the state, that Dosss statements were persuasive.

LaCour said they had done a lot of work over the past two years.

We need a decision right away, he said.

LaCour told Burke that it has become a playbook for the United States to enter the cases and ask for trust from doctors rather than lawmakers.

LaCour also referenced sealed evidence that the state had and said they had created a very robust record.

Burke said that they were reading tea leaves, and they did not know what would happen. He said he did not see the harm in waiting three months and that it is certainly possible I could be reversed twice.

LaCour told Burke that he could rule on a summary judgment, or a judgment entered without a full trial.

Burke told LaCour that the state could enforce the law now, but LaCour replied that they had spent a lot of time on the case.

At some point, when is it our turn to finally get justice? he said.

Burke said he was sympathetic to LaCours statements that one plaintiff has already aged out, and they might need new experts.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall was in attendance Thursday but did not present any of the states arguments.

Burke told the court that he was going to think more, but he checked around the room for major conflicts for Oct. 27, which no one objected to.

The attorneys for the plaintiffs have faced accusations of judge-shopping after they dismissed and refiled the case in 2022, prior to the two-day hearing. Burke clarified with one attorney Thursday that judge shopping is prohibited under the 11th Circuit.

Burke spent over an hour meeting with the attorneys  and their attorneys  in separate meetings Thursday on the format for hearings in the matter. While they met, the attorneys went around speaking in small groups amongst themselves.

Think weve got a plan, Burke said at the end, saying that he would be open to attorneys taking the lead on discussion, or doing that himself.

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The post Federal judge mulls delay of trial on Alabamas transgender medical care ban appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
The entrance to the Tooele Army Depot in Tooele is pictured on Friday, May 24, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

A sweeping, unique approach to land management and conservation is headed to Utah in the shape of the 2.7 million acre Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape.

Spanning the final stretch of the Bear River, the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, the entire southern arm of the Great Salt Lake, Hill Air Force Base, Tooele Army Depot, Camp Williams, part of the Oquirrh Mountains, the Tooele Valley, and all of Utah Lake and its western shore, the Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape brings together a handful of state and local land managers to protect undeveloped land near military installations.

Basically, a sentinel landscape seeks to create a buffer zone around the three main military installations in northern Utah, often working with private landowners and land managers to create conservation easements.

A lot of the Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape objectives are centered around the Salt Lake ecosystem, wildland fire, wildlife habitat and encroachment, said Tyler Smith, the sentinel landscapes coordinator and former commander of Camp Williams.

A map of the Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape. (Credit: U.S. Department of Defense)

The Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape boasts more than 30 federal, state, local and private partners, including the Bureau of Land Management, Department of Defense, U.S. Forest Service, Utah Department of Natural Resources, Utah Trust Lands Administration, and Utah Division of Indian Affairs.

Eagle Mountain, Herriman and Layton are all listed as partners, as are The Nature Conservatory, Ducks Unlimited, Bear River Land Conservancy, and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

It brought together these like-minded organizations that have a shared interest, and its going to help us become even more productive and efficient with what weve already been doing on the Great Salt Lake, said Smith.

The Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape is one of five new designations totalling almost 10 million acres in Utah, New Mexico, California, Hawaii and Pennsylvania.

Tremendous opportunities: What are sentinel landscapes?

The 1990s and early 2000s brought increased growth in rural communities-turned-suburbs around the country, sometimes in once remote areas that housed military installations. Farmland and vacant lots turned into subdivisions, sometimes pushed right up against military bases  a prime example is the growth in Utah and Salt Lake counties closing in on Camp Williams.

In the early 2000s, Congress passed a law that opened up funding for the Department of Defense to work with state and federal land management organizations and private landowners to pass conservation easements and stop encroachment. And in 2013, the U.S. Departments of Interior, Defense and Agriculture signed an agreement to create the sentinel landscape program.

It has mutual benefits not only to the military but also to the civilian population because having some offset provides better safety and better quality of life, said Smith.

The shores of the Great Salt Lake near Syracuse are pictured on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

A sentinel landscape doesnt actually mandate anything for private landowners. Smith said prior agreements are honored  for instance, if a developer already has a subdivision approved within the landscapes boundaries, nothing will stop that.

Other landowners or developers are encouraged to participate in the program, but nothing is compulsory. Smith shared an example of a landowner near Camp Williams who planned to subdivide and build homes right on the border of the camp.

With funding from the Department of Defense, the nonprofit Conservation Fund purchased the land and deeded it to Herriman City, which then restricted development and turned the parcel into a network of trails.

We just ask landowners to consider it. In my opinion, being in a sentinel landscape boundary is a bonus. I would think it enhances the value of the land. If youre in a sentinel landscape, youre in an area thats committed to practicing sound land management, he said. Obviously, landowners will always maintain their rights. But there are tremendous opportunities here.

When encroachment goes untended, it can create problems for both landowners and the military installation. Residents might have to endure frequent explosions, gunfire or the roar of jet engines. In Las Vegas, radios used at a race track built next to Nellis Air Force Base can interfere with aircraft communications. When the Army developed a new bullet that traveled further distances, land near a shooting range at Pennsylvanias Fort Indiantown Gap suddenly became unsafe.

Sentinel landscapes, Smith said, are the answer.

It helps identify those factors and come up with nature-based solutions that work for everybody, he said.

The post Feds, state and private landowners designate 2.7 million acre Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape appeared first on Utah News Dispatch.
ROCHESTER  For the fourth year, the city common has been transformed into a Field of Honor, celebrating the lives and sacrifices of veterans on Memorial Day weekend.

Vouchers for Veteran Field of Honor is hosted by the city of Rochester and puts heroism on display. Flags were placed Friday and the event was set to run through Memorial Day on Monday. The Field of Honor is hundreds of 8-foot flag poles each flying a 3-by-5-foot American flag. Attached to each pole is a yellow silk ribbon and a laminated card displaying the name, branch, rank and insignia of a veteran being honored.

"Once again there are 550 flags on display," said Jeanne Varney Grover, president of the Vouchers for Veterans program that runs the Field of Honor.

Jim Ricker secures American flags in a row as he and others work together setting up Field of Honor in Rochester Friday, May 24, 2024. The display remains in place through Monday.

"The voucher program has over 2,500 veterans registered," said Grover. "Veterans use vouchers we give them to get fresh produce, meals and baked goods at farmer's markets in New Hampshire and Maine. With a voucher they are eligible to go 26 times a year. On average I think most use it at least 10 times. The farmers get face value of the voucher, and they recycle that back into the community, so it is a program that works very well."

Flag for late Marine Capt. Jack Casey of Dover one of many tributes

Hundreds of American flags remembering veterans who have passed are being set up Friday, May 24, 2024 to remain through Monday.

Grover said this year many business owners purchased or donated flags for veterans killed in action in the Vietnam war. The flags display a black cross on them.

"One thing we are also doing, is to honor anyone we lost this past year in Maine and New Hampshire," said Grover.

She mentioned two of them.

Varney said Marines Capt. Jack Casey, 27, was from a well-known family in Dover. He was killed, on Feb. 7, 2024, in a helicopter training accident.

Previous story: Dover honors late Capt. Jack Casey joined by his family, friends

Army Staff Sgt. Tanner Grone from Gorham died Nov. 10, 2023.

"He was 25," said Grover. ""He was stationed at Fort Campbell, Tennessee, and on his last appointment he was killed when a Black Hawk helicopter crashed in the Mediterranean Sea."

"Both were only in their 20s," Grover said. "It is really sad."

Approximately 275 of the flags are dedicated by businesses and organizations for New Hampshire and Maine veterans who died in action. The remainder of the flags are purchased privately, to honor veterans of a family or friend's choosing, living or deceased.

Spotting a fallen flag that hadn't been secured yet due to strong wind, a motorcyclist stops and puts the flag back on its pole at the Field of Honor in Rochester Friday, May 24, 2024.

Memorial Day 2024: Parades, ceremonies in Seacoast NH and southern Maine are listed here

The unforgettable sight is sobering and moving with thousands of visitors coming each year to pay their respects.

Each evening at 7 p.m., taps is played followed by bagpipes.

"We are so grateful to the city," said Grover. "We could not do this without them, They collaborate by hosting us, and helping provide amenities like porta potties and other manpower to help us out."

This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Field of Honor: 550 flags at Memorial Day tribute in Rochester NH
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The last, best, and final offer for the remaining Las Vegas hospitality employees without a new five-year contract is referred to as horrible and laughable by its union and members.

Over 700 employees of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas are at the mercy of the culinary union and their employer to agree on a new contract, as every other resort property with workers represented by the union has since members overwhelmingly authorized citywide strikes in September 2023. The specific contract expired last June.

JC Hospitality LLC, the owner of the resort on Paradise Road and Harmon Avenue, sent the media a letter addressed to Culinary Union leaders, dated May 21 and titled Last, Best and Final Offer. In it, its chief human resource officer claims they simply cannot afford the unions wage and benefits demands.

Letter sent by JC Hospitality LLC to the Culinary Union Local 226

Letter sent by JC Hospitality LLC to the Culinary Union Local 226

Letter sent by JC Hospitality LLC to the Culinary Union Local 226

Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of Culinary Union Local 226, said the offer was the first time in five months of negotiations that JC Hospitality offered any kind of wage increase. The letter indicated an offer of minor healthcare and pension contribution increases within the first three years, followed by total package increases of $1 an hour for the last two years.

In short, employees would see hourly wage increases of 49 cents in 2026 and 2027 only, as the other 51 cents are allocated to benefit contributions.

Pappageorge said the other 27 independently operated properties they represent agreed to wage increases of $3.11 in the first year and $9.21 over the entire five-year contract.

Its still a horrible proposal, Pappageorge said during a virtual news conference Thursday morning. When a company spends a lot of time bargaining the details to the press, that means theyre not really that serious.

The letter further accused the union of not returning to the bargaining table in certain instances, claiming the resort owner offered June 7 as a potential date to resume negotiations. The unions negotiating committee is partly comprised of resort workers who take unpaid time off to participate, according to Pappageorge.

Thats a Friday. Thats when workers are going to make money. Weve told the company for months, we cant bargain on Thursdays and Fridays, Pappageorge said, while also claiming theyre available to bargain when the owner is.

While much other language within the contract, like worker safety and protection from technology replacement, is reportedly set, wage increases remain the last hurdle. The negotiating committee is now reviewing the last, best, and final offer before confirming a dare to return to the bargaining table.

Representatives of the resort did not respond to 8 News Nows request for an interview or comment Thursday. The resort filed an unfair labor practice suit against the union with the National Labor Relations Board two weeks ago.

The Mohegan Tribe operates the casino portion of the property while Hilton operates the hotel portion.

The tribe, for one, does not report revenue at its individual properties across the United States, but it does report cash flow or the amount of money going in and out of the casino. Through the last reported period in 2023, over $3 million in cash flow was recorded, which is more than a 430% drop from the prior year.

Are they broke? You should ask them that. Are they nearing bankruptcy? Pappageorge said. Were dealing with Wall Street Banks and hedge funds here, unfortunately.

Resort employees, like Food Server Aaron Mahan, say times ticking before they pack up.

The offer, to me, was laughable, Mahan said during the news conference. Ive been there for so long. My seniority, Ive been there since 2005. Its my home away from home.

The first Culinary Union-led strike in over two decades was held at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas earlier this month for 48 hours. The largest wage increases within the unions 89-year history were secured this year, totaling about $3 billion over five years for over 50,000 employees, according to the union.

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CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  The trial for the stepfather of missing Cornelius girl Madalina Cojocari is now underway after a jury was seated Friday morning.

Opening arguments got underway before 2 p.m. Friday, May 24, and the state began calling witnesses. Christopher Palmiter is charged with not reporting his stepdaughter missing in the fall of 2022.

Prosecutors said the school counselor at Madalinas school left Palmiter five voicemails over 23 days and he never responded until his wife went to the school without Madalina, and thats when authorities discovered she was missing.

Both the defense and the prosecution reminded jurors that this trial is not about what happened to Madalina. They said jurors wont get that answer during the trial.

Twenty-three days from Nov. 2 to Dec. 15. Twenty-three days went by where he didnt know the location of Madalina Cojocari, Prosecutor Austin Butler said.

I havent seen my child in 24 hours because Ive been in the office. Does that mean Im supposed to report them missing? You have to know the why in this case, and not make assumptions, Defense Attorney Brandon Roseman said.

Diana Cojocari pled guilty earlier this week to the same charge Palmiter is on trial for now.

She was sentenced to time served for the 17 months she was at the Mecklenburg County Detention Center. The judge in that case noted that Diana Cojocari had already served the maximum sentence for the crime while in jail. She walked out of jail Tuesday, surrounded by lawyers and cameras.

MORE FROM QUEEN CITY NEWS

Finding Madalina

The unusual nature of Madalinas disappearance has led to various searches in locations that could possibly be connected to the childs disappearance. The case has also garnered a great deal of media attention, even internationally, due to Diana Cojocari being from the eastern European country of Moldova.

Diana Cojocari still faces the possibility of being deported for her guilty plea to the failure to report charge, which is a felony. So far, there are no indications of when or if that will happen.

Madalina Cojocari remains missing to this day. Palmiter and Diana Cojocari have given no indication on her whereabouts, and have stated to police that they did not know where the girl was. Diana Cojocaris family have previously said that they believe Madalina may be alive and being sex-trafficked.

However, court filings so far have claimed Diana Cojocari had feared Palmiter and had been possibly looking to leave him, prior to Madalinas disappearance.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Fired Boise police accountability director sued city. Here are the details of his settlement

The city of Boise will pay $675,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by the citys former director of police accountability, Jesus Jara, according to a Friday news release and court documents provided by the city.

Jesus Jara sued the city of Boise after he was fired in late 2022. He will receive over $430,000 for economic losses as well as noneconomic damages.

Following court-ordered mediation on April 30, the city settled the case when its insurance provider exercised its rights based on the citys insurance policy, according to the news release. The company sought a settlement based on the potential for significant attorney fees to be awarded against the city, the release said.

Jill Youmans, a spokesperson for the city, said she could not speak for the insurance companys concerns.

In exchange for the settlement, Jara will allow his complaint to be dismissed with prejudice, meaning that he cannot refile a lawsuit against the city, according to court documents. Jara will receive over $430,000 for economic losses as well as non-economic damages, according to court documents. About $240,000 of the settlement will go toward Jaras legal fees.

The settlement comes after months of litigation, during which Jara claimed that his firing in late 2022 was in retaliation for his investigation into police officers complaints against former Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee. The city repeatedly denied Jaras claim, citing specific concerns about Jaras performance in the role.

Jaras attorney, Grady Hepworth, did not immediately respond to a request for more information Friday.

In recent years, the city has paid out several settlements involving Boise police. Those included $190,000 to the mother of a man killed by the Boise Police Department, $400,000 in a sexual discrimination lawsuit with the agency, and $375,000 to an officer who accused a now-retired lieutenant of selling guns from his office.

9 complaints against ex-Boise police chief detailed in documents McLean kept from view

Forced out? Reports detail variety of complaints against former Boise police chief

Why did Boise fire its police overseer? Document lists 6 previously undisclosed reasons
First group of Ukrainian pilots finishes F-16 training in US

The first group of Ukrainian pilots has completed training on F-16 fighter jets at a military base in Arizona, US.

Source: Erin Hannigan, spokesperson for the Arizona National Guard; Politico

Details: The pilots underwent training at the 162nd National Guard Air Force Base in Tucson. The number of pilots and the exact graduation date are not disclosed "for their safety".

Politico, citing a person familiar with their movements, reported that the pilots are now heading to Europe for additional training.

Ukraine will receive over 60 F-16 fighter jets from Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands and Belgium.

Read also: "F-16s in the sky. Carrying US missiles. Targets destroyed!" : how pilots of Ukraine's Armed Forces train on simulator

Background:

On 21 May, 10 Ukrainian servicemen completed F-16 fighter jet maintenance training in the Netherlands.

Ukraine would receive the first batch of F-16 fighter jets "within weeks", the UK newspaper Evening Standard reported on 10 May with reference to a "high-ranking military source".

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First group of Ukrainian pilots passes F-16 training in US

The first batch of Ukrainian pilots graduated from the F-16 training program in Arizona, a spokesperson of the U.S. Air National Guard, Erin Hannigan, told Politico in a comment published on May 23.

Ukraine is bound to receive dozens of American-made fourth-generation fighter jets from the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and Norway. Several countries, including the U.S., pledged to assist Ukrainian aviators with the necessary training under the fighter jet coalition framework.

Hannigan did not disclose the number of the first graduates or the exact date of graduation "out of an abundance of caution for their safety."

The aviators will now move to Europe for additional training, Politico wrote, citing an undisclosed source.

First Ukrainian pilots began their training at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona, last October. The lessons are facilitated by the Air National Guard's 162nd Wing.

Other pilots are receiving training in Denmark, and Romania also opened an F-16 training facility for Ukrainian aviators.

Earlier this week, the Dutch Defense Ministry announced that the first 10 Ukrainian military personnel completed F-16 maintenance training in the Netherlands.

Read also: F-16s for Ukraine: When will they arrive and what can they do?

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Every day brings new challenges, but it is important to understand that difficulties test our strength and endurance. Astrologers remind us that life is full of ups and downs, and a black streak will be replaced by a white one.

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However, in a weekly rhythm, one day may differ from the rest. For many zodiac signs, Friday or May 24 will be influenced by positive cosmic energy. However, according to the forecast, Aries, Taurus, and Gemini will face problems.

Aries

Today you find yourself in the shadow of gloomy energy, which contrasts sharply with your cheerfulness. Instead of fueling your creativity, you're caught in a web of doubt and longing.

You want to get rid of these negative feelings, but there are many obstacles ahead. You feel lethargic and disoriented throughout the day. Although you realize that this phase is temporary, it is difficult to see beyond the fog. It's time to take control of your life and to break away from past limitations that have slowed your progress.

Taurus

Astrologers advise you to go deeper into self-reflection and check if your life is in line with your core values. Authenticity is the cornerstone of our existence as you strive to follow your inner compass faithfully.

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True self-acceptance means loving unconditionally without seeking external validation. Today you may find yourself struggling with challenges that drain your energy, leading to frustration that inadvertently interferes with your interactions with loved ones. Professionally, you may be faced with a significant responsibility that will require all your energy and prompt action.

Gemini

You are often able to mask your emotions, creating an image of unwavering strength and competence. However, today's intense cosmic energy may challenge your ability to maintain this facade. You'll be juggling multiple tasks and commitments, potentially leading to elevated stress levels.

To manage effectively, you will need patience, discipline, and strategic thinking. It is very important not to let your emotions get the better of you. Engage in activities that will promote relaxation and joy.

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First lady Jill Biden to give commencement speech at Erie County Community College in June

In September 2020, Jill Biden joined Erie County officials for a virtual roundtable discussion about community college education months after they had won approval from the state to form a community college of their own.

Now, the first lady is returning to Erie County to deliver the school's commencement speech on June 1.

More than 80 graduates will receive their certificates and associate degrees at college's second commencement ceremony. The event will be limited to graduates and their guests, who will need tickets to attend, but it will be live-streamed on the college's website, www.ec3pa.org, at 10 a.m.

Biden has been a professor at Northern Virginia Community College since 2009 and has continued to teach English and writing during her husband's presidency. She has more than 30 years of teaching experience.

First Lady Jill Biden is scheduled to deliver the commencement speech June 1 at Erie County Community College.

Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy DeFoor, a Republican, will also speak at the ceremony.

"We are thrilled to have both Dr. Biden and Auditor General DeFoor at graduation," said Erie County Community College President Chris Gray. "Auditor DeFoor is a community college graduate. Dr. Biden is a long-term community college professor who knows the power a community college can have on transforming students' lives."

After Erie County's application for a community college was approved by the State Board of Education in July 2020, Biden congratulated organizers in a virtual meeting, Gray said.

"She made a promise at that time to see how this community college makes a difference in lives, and she is following through on that promise."

More: Jill Biden, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona see 'light at end of tunnel' for education

Biden will be making her second appearance in Erie County since becoming first lady. She visited with educators, administrators and students at Fort LeBoeuf Middle School on March 3, 2021, alongside U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to discuss education.

She also campaigned for her husband at East Middle School in the city on the eve of the 2020 presidential election.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Jill Biden to speak at Erie County Community College commencement
The U.S. Capitol is seen on a cloudy day in an undated photo. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

The U.S. Capitol is seen on a cloudy day in an undated photo. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

On Wednesday, a full-fledged embargo of Russia-sourced seafood took effect in the United States, with importers prohibited from buying Russian products, even if they were subsequently processed in another country.

The next day, a delegation of Alaska businessmen and local government officials, all with ties to the fishing industry, met with Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and other federal officials in an attempt to expand that boycott internationally.

Russia is the No. 1 problem when it comes to our fishing industry, said Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, who coordinated the visit. Right now, the Russians have essentially admitted theyre not just at war in Ukraine, theyre at war with the American fishing industry.

When youre in a fight, youve got to fight back, Sullivan said, recounting the delegations conversation with Raimondo.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Russian economy  and by extension its war effort  has benefitted from a huge surge in seafood exports.

In 2022, the U.S. started sanctioning Russian seafood, but products sent from Russia to another country for processing were exempted until President Joe Biden issued an executive order in December. It took months more for federal agencies to fully implement that order.

But despite the American ban, Russian seafood exports globally appear to be surging. The European Union has taken little action to stop Russian imports, and even countries that have restricted direct imports, like Canada, havent gone as far as the United States.

With Russia selling vast amounts of seafood cheaply, Alaska fishermen are suffering. Extraordinarily low prices, coupled with rising labor and supply costs, are hammering the industry afloat and ashore. The low prices are largely, but not entirely, due to the glut of Russian seafood.

Luke Fanning, CEO of the Aleutian Pribilof Island Community Development Association, participated in Thursdays meeting and spoke to reporters afterward, as did other participants.

He said the Pribilofs and the Aleutians have seen five fish processing plants close in the past four years.

That has ripple effects throughout the region.

Mayor Vince Tutiakoff of Unalaska, another attendee, said his community is looking at a loss of $3 million in city revenue in the next 12 months due to reduced fishing.

The town, Americas largest fishing port by volume, is in the middle of a costly dredging project and is now consolidating schools because there are fewer children in town.

Alvin Osterback, mayor of the Aleutians East Borough, said raw fish taxes pay for local services across his region, and right now, were down more than 60% of our revenues.

This is really a huge problem for the communities. We do not have other forms of work or factories or anything else we can go to. We are 100% fishing communities, he said.

With fewer jobs, other problems arise, he said  drugs, alcohol, domestic violence  the types of things that happen when communities are down on their luck, which we kind of are right now, he said.

The bottom line is that our residents and our region and our communities depend on a healthy and vibrant seafood industry, Fanning said.

The Alaska visitors, with the support of the states delegation in Congress, want the federal government to pressure American allies to join a stronger seafood embargo.

Limiting the market for Russian seafood would eliminate competition for Alaska fishermen, driving up prices and alleviating some of the problem.

Sullivan said he hopes the issue is brought up before and during a June summit meeting in Italy that will bring together the leaders of the worlds seven leading democracies.

But convincing international fish buyers to switch away from Russian fish may not be easy.

Among the participants in Thursdays meeting was Trident Seafoods CEO Joe Bundrant, who has advocated stronger embargos for years.

Meanwhile, Trident itself hasnt been able to avoid buying Russian fish.

Earlier this year, its European subsidiary Pickenpack Seafoods said it would resume buying Russian pollock after stopping for more than a year amid a company-wide push.

When asked by Northern Journal reporter Nat Herz about those purchases, Bundrant said that in some cases, Russian pollock is being sold at $1,000 per ton below cost.

Our mission every day is to wake up and drive value from Alaska seafood, and it pains me greatly to make that decision. But until theres some support from G7 countries, its an economic necessity for survival, he said.

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The post Fishers, city officials seek broader Russia seafood boycott to benefit Ukraine and Alaska appeared first on Alaska Beacon.
Helicopters fly, one displaying the Taiwanese flag, during an inauguration celebration for President William Lai in Taipei this week. (Chiang Ying-ying / Associated Press)

Thousands protesting outside parliament, lawmakers tackling and punching each other inside  its not the peace and unity Taiwans new president called for when he took office this week.

The democratic, self-ruled island, facing growing pressure from China, is roiling over a controversial bill that critics say could make it easier for Beijing to interfere with Taiwans domestic affairs.

The impassioned reaction highlights the tense political atmosphere in Taiwan as the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, or DPP, enters an unprecedented third term in the presidency. Some fear the partys confrontational stance toward China could provoke an attack, while its supporters argue that close collaboration with Beijing could cede too much power to the Communist Party.

Beijing considers Taiwan a part of its territory and has vowed to reunify it with the mainland and to achieve that goal by force if necessary.

On Friday, tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the parliamentary building for a third time, objecting to the bill that would subject government officials and private companies to questioning by legislators  or fines or imprisonment.

The bill, if passed, would significantly curtail the power of President William Lai, who would also be subject to an annual policy report by the legislature.

Proponents of the proposal, backed by two opposition parties  the Kuomintang and the Taiwan Peoples Party, also known as the KMT and TPP  say it is necessary to improve government accountability .

Critics argue that the bill is being rushed through without proper procedures and that forcing sensitive disclosures would be unconstitutional and could undermine national security. One fear is that those targeted by China will have their private information exposed.

Read more: Closer to China than to the Japanese mainland, these idyllic islands confront the prospect of war

This sets the tone for how Taiwans domestic politics are going to look like under a Lai administration, said Lev Nachman, a political science professor at National Chengchi University in Taipei. Its going to be chaotic, and theres going to be very little that the DPP is going to be able to do.

Lai, the former vice president also known by his Chinese name, Lai Ching-te, won election in January with 40% of the vote. His predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, held office for the maximum of two four-year terms. But the DPP lost its majority in the legislature, signaling growing discontent among Taiwanese citizens with the previous administration.

Under Tsai, Taiwan grew closer to the U.S. and increasingly at odds with China, which on Thursday launched two days of military drills around the island in a show of displeasure with the new president.

At his inauguration Monday, Lai called on China to cease its military and political intimidation , and said neither side was subordinate to the other.

He emphasized his goal to maintain the status quo but also stressed Taiwans autonomy, prompting an angry rebuke from Beijing.

Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office denounced Lai for promoting separatist fallacies and for advocating Taiwanese independence. The country also sanctioned three U.S. defense contractors for providing weapons to Taiwan.

Growing fears of military conflict have heightened political divisions within the island of 23 million.

As China ratchets up military drills and courts the friendship of opposition lawmakers, thats increased concerns that the bill could be used to benefit the Chinese government by revealing private information, said Ming-sho Ho, a professor of sociology at National Taiwan University.

Read more: On global stage, 'RuPauls Drag Race' Taiwanese winner says the word China hates

For many Taiwanese people, you see China pressuring Taiwan both from without and also from within, Ho said. People are genuinely worried.

On Friday, protesters chanted their disapproval from the street while legislators reviewed the bill. Some demonstrators waved signs that said no discussion, no democracy, while others sported yellow-and-black headbands printed with demands to increase transparency and reevaluate the bill point by point.

Chen Chun-xia, a 60-year-old retiree, said she was concerned that the reforms would enable legislators to interrogate her family over their manufacturing business in Taiwan. It was her first time at the protests, and she was expecting a dozen more family members to join her in the evening after work.

I knew I had to be here when I saw the news, she said. This is for my family, for the next generation.

Calvin Lin, 37, and Monica Chen, 34, who arrived at Fridays demonstration together, met a decade ago during Taiwans Sunflower Movement, a massive protest against a bill to boost trade with China. At that time, the KMT held the presidency and the legislative majority but withdrew the bill after student protesters physically occupied the national legislature for three weeks.

This weeks protests have been more organized, Lin said, and he doesnt expect the legislature to recall the bill. However, he hopes the demonstrations will encourage more dialogue around reforms. He wore a strip of cloth around his arm that said, Taiwan can only improve without the KMT, the same slogan he remembers from 10 years ago.

The most important thing is that the process and the system are fair and healthy, said Lin, who plans to return to protest with his friends in the coming days. At least open up the dialogue. Thats the bare minimum.

Of course, the parliament can reform, but its important to have proper proceedings and discussions, Chen added.

Read more: 'Only you can save your own lives': Disinformation and fake news flood Taiwan before election

The first round of discussions, on May 17, turned violent as some lawmakers tried to stop the proceedings. People punched, shoved and tackled one another; five legislators were sent to the hospital.

This week, a group of 30 academics, former U.S. officials and other critics of the reforms released a joint statement that said the proposal grants the legislature excessive power compared with other constitutional democracies and has not been allowed sufficient review by the public or DPP lawmakers.

The KMT has defended the bill as a way to curb corruption and improve checks and balances within Taiwans government. At a Thursday news conference, party members said the proposed measures have nothing to do with cross-strait relations and lambasted the DPP for fearmongering.

Despite the protests, the KMT and TPP, which make up the majority of the legislature, have enough support to pass the bill when the session continues Tuesday.

I think the opposition party has made it known that it is going to use its majority for its political purposes, said Ho, the National Taiwan University professor, and this is only the beginning.

Yang is a Times staff writer and Wu a special correspondent.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Amid public concern about possible groping and inappropriate behavior, Alexander Casas, the police chief at Florida International University, was placed on leave, said Maydel Santana, a university spokeswoman, Friday.

FIU does not comment on personnel matters; therefore, no further details are available at this time regarding Chief Casas, Santana wrote in an email Friday morning responding to a Herald inquiry about the issue.

Another FIU spokeswoman, Dianne Fernandez, said she couldnt say why Casas was put on leave, when or for how long the leave is expected to last due to human resources rules.

Its unclear if the administration announced the news to the university community.

FIU Police Chief Alexander Casas

But in recent weeks, accusations have surfaced regarding his conduct.

An Instagram account called @westchester.social first posted two videos on April 17 that show Casas appearing to touch two people in the buttocks while posing for photos. The account also shared an anonymous letter that accuses Casas of poor behavior, including inappropriately groping employees as an effort to prank them on multiple occasions.

On April 18, WSVN 7 News reported receiving complaints related to the videos, which the news channel reported were recorded during an awards ceremony earlier this year.

Neither Santana nor Fernandez told the Herald if FIU officials are aware of the complaints on social media and the WSVN reportregarding Casas.

Casas didnt immediately respond to a request for comment from the Herald sent via email.

FIU police chief, Alexander Casas (left), with former FIU president, Mark Rosenberg, at a 2018 press conference.

Casas makes $243,024, according to Fernandez. Its unclear if he will get paid during his leave.

He has been at FIU since 2011, according to his LinkedIn page. Before that, he worked for the Miami-Dade Police Department from 1990 to 2011.

Santana didnt say which university official put Alexander Casas on leave. But the chief reports to Javier I. Marques, the vice president for operations and safety and chief of staff at FIU.

In the interim, Major James Mesidor has been appointed acting chief of FIUPD while Chief Casas is on leave, Santana said.

Major Mesidor joined FIU on April 2021 after retiring from the City of North Miami Police Department, after more than 27 years there, Fernandez said.

Mesidor made $125,000. And that was temporarily increased to $146,250 while hes acting chief, Fernandez said.
May 21, 2024, Gaza City, Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territory: A ship transporting international humanitarian aid is moored at the US-built Trident Pier near Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip on May 21, 2024, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant Hamas group | Stranger/ZUMAPRESS/Newscom

That floating pier the U.S. government built? Well, it's failed to deliver much aid to Gaza. "Several trucks were looted as they made their way to a warehouse, and operations were suspended for two days," reports The New York Times. "The U.N. World Food Program has warned that the pier project could fail if Israel does not do more to ensure the safe distribution of the aid."

It seems insane to blame this on Israel. The U.S. military and allies took on what seemed like a simple project: to build a pier attached to the Gaza shoreline so that aid shipments could more easily reach the embattled territory (price tag: $320 million). There were always roadblocksthe U.S. government does not allow American troops on the ground in Gaza, so it's been a hard project to tackleand "it is extremely difficult to deliver aid to distribution centers without police escorts to protect the convoys from swarms of people," U.S. and United Nations officials told the Times.

Pentagon officials have griped that there was not enough coordination between the Biden administration and the military on planning and logistics at the project's inception. Longtime aid workers in the region have called this "humanitarian theater."

The pier was built on an Army ship off the coast of Gaza by roughly 1,000 American troops. The project had hoped to bring in 90 trucks' worth of aid per day, scaling up to 150 before long. In reality, progress has stalled: Over the course of this past weekthe first the pier has been openedonly 70 trucks total have reached warehouses, with 11 of those looted along the way.

Taiwan heats up: Lai Ching-te, a fierce critic of Beijing and defender of Taiwan's sovereignty, was sworn in as president on Monday. China responded by launching at least 15 navy vessels, 16 coast guard vessels, and 42 aircraft, totally encircling the island, meting out what they call "strong punishment" and a warning to Taiwan's new president.

The last time this happened was in response to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island. Chinese military officials say that this time they intend to send "a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces"meaning the United States. This time is a little more intense, too, in that the Chinese military is also surrounding the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, which sit close to the mainland's coast, as well as the east side of the island, near the mountains (where a lot of Taiwan's military infrastructure is allegedly housed).

Taiwan sees itself as independent and self-governing, whereas China sees it as a rogue territory that needs to be brought back under Chinese control. It seems like the Chinese government wants "to show the Americans that any effort to resupply or re-enforce Taiwan from the east is vulnerable to Chinese missile strikes and naval attack," per the BBC.

Scenes from New York (a beach town): In honor of Memorial Day Weekend and the start of summer, I hereby present the Rockaway, Queens, Wikipedia page. For the uninitiated: Rockaway is my home, and it was also majorly screwed up by (every New Yorker's favorite villain) Robert Moses. Rockaway's gone through several cycles of getting screwed over, either by central planners or by the elements, then being revitalized, then getting screwed over again. It's a resilient little place, and if you happen to be a New Yorker in need of a beach getaway that doesn't leave you in debt for years to come, I highly recommend eschewing the Hamptons and schlepping out to beautiful Rockaway Beachendorsed by the Ramones, Mac Demarco, and yours truly.

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"Just a few years ago, when his Korean dark comedy 'Parasite' won the 2020 Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, the writer and director Bong Joon Ho ribbed Americans for their aversion to 'the one-inch-tall barrier of subtitles,'" writes Brandon Yu at The New York Times. "But in 2024, 'The Sympathizer' is among a growing number of American worksincluding the recent prestige films 'Minari' (2020), 'Past Lives' (2023) and 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (2022); the television epics 'Pachinko' (2022) and 'Shogun' (2024); and the family-friendly series 'Ms. Marvel' (2022) and 'American Born Chinese' (2023)that use Asian languages to bring additional depth and nuance to their stories. 'I don't think it is just a temporary blip,' said Minjeong Kim, the director of the Center for Asian and Pacific Studies at San Diego State University. 'The trend has shifted.'"

SpaceX is considering a tender offer; shares would be sold at a price that would indicate the company is valued at roughly $200 billion.

Is the U.S. government changing how it regulates crypto?

Riots in New Caledonia have led to delayed voting reforms for the French Pacific territory.

If you're not watching Just Asking Questions, I am very disappointed in you. If you love me/Roundup, you're sure to enjoy JAQ. If you hate me/Roundup, well, this episode is about the possibility of my house being swallowed by the ocean, so there's really something for everyone:

The post Floating Failure appeared first on Reason.com.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida priest is accused of biting a woman during communion because she didnt take the prior steps necessary to be given the communion bread, according to reports.

Police responded to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in St. Cloud, located just southeast of Orlando, following a morning mass this week.

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A redacted police report said that during communion, the priest denied the woman the bread because she did not do the prior steps necessary to be given the communion bread.

When the woman told the priest she did do the prior steps, the priest became upset and tried to ram the cookie in her mouth, the report said. As the woman went to grab another one, thats when the priest allegedly grabbed her and bit her, leaving a mark.

A churchgoers cellphone video shows the brief altercation between the two.

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However, the priest told officials that the woman attacked him first, saying, She push[ed] me and grabbed the bowl with the holy hosts, for us is sacred.. and she grabbed all the hosts because she wants to receive for herself which is not permitted.. spreading them all over the floor.

The priest admitted to biting the womans arm after she wouldnt let go of the communion tray. According to the report, the priest was not arrested but the woman plans on prosecuting.

The police department has turned the incident over to the State Attorneys Office.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
ALABAMA (WHNT)  A U.S. District Court has indicted a Florida man on several charges related to the sexual exploitation of children.

Trevon Lamont Brown, 23, is charged with two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of sexual exploitation of children, two counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, and three counts of cyberstalking.

Lawrence County man indicted on multiple child sex crime charges

According to the nine-count indictment, while in Madison County in June of 2023, Brown enticed two individuals by force and coercion to engage in commercial sex acts.

The documents also say that between August and November of 2021, Brown engaged in sexually explicit conduct with an underage person in order to produce videos. Then, between December 2020 and March 2021, he coerced another minor to engage in sexual exploitation, the indictment states.

Brown was also charged with cyberstalking, the indictment said, after harassing and intimidating victims on different social apps between December 202 and August 2023.

HSI Birmingham, Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Clarksville Police Department in Tennessee, and Ocala Police Department in Florida investigated the case.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
A Florida priest is accused of biting a woman while giving out Communion during a Mass in St. Cloud in an alleged attempt to defend the Communion bread, according to the charging affidavit in the case.

The priest, identified as Father Fidel Rodriguez, initially refused to give the woman Communion bread on May 19 and told her she did not do the prior steps necessary to receive the bread when he encountered her at a Mass held earlier that day at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, according to police.

A statement provided by the Diocese of Orlando states Rodriguez gave the woman a blessing at the 10 a.m. Mass and advised her to receive the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) before coming back to receive Holy Communion (Eucharist).

The woman told police she returned to the church for the noon Mass and informed the priest she had in fact done the necessary steps and is now accepted by God, thus, granting her the ability to participate in communion, the affidavit states.

The priest asked the woman if she had been to the Sacrament of Penance (Confession), to which she stated it was not his business, according to the statement from the Diocese.

The woman told police Rodriguez allegedly became upset and tried to ram the cookie in her mouth, according to the affidavit. She said she then attempted to grab another Communion bread, which the priest was holding, when he grabbed and bit her arm, the affidavit states.

Father Rodriguez offered the woman Holy Communion on the tongue. At that point, the woman forcefully placed her hand in the vessel and grabbed some sacred Communion hosts, crushing them, according to the Dioceses statement on the incident.

Having only one hand free, Father Rodriguez struggled to restrain the woman as she refused to let go of the hosts. When the woman pushed him and reacting to a perceived act of aggression, Father Rodriguez bit her hand so she would let go of the hosts she grabbed, the statement continued.

The woman was asked to leave, according to the Diocese, which added the priest had not met her before.

When interviewed by police, the priest told the investigating officer the woman had pushed him and would not let go of the communion tray and the only way he thought to extract her from it was to bite her arm, according to the affidavit.

In the Catholic Tradition, the Eucharist is considered the source and summit of worship and faith. The act of participation in Holy Communion therefore calls for a proper understanding, reverence, and devotion, the statement from the Diocese reads.

It is not something a person can arbitrarily demand and is certainly not a mere cookie as the complainant called it, the statement adds.

The woman refused medical attention and police photographed the bite mark, according to the affidavit.

St. Cloud Police have forwarded the affidavit summary of events to the State Attorneys Office for review.

The Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorneys Office told CNN in a statement on Friday, We have received the case and it is currently under review to determine the appropriate course of action.

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The states effort to strip a vocal critic of Floridas child welfare system of custody of her own adoptive son and have her charged with a felony is being led at the highest levels of Gov. Ron DeSantis administration, a state lawyer said in court Friday.

For eight years, Heather Cox Rosenberg served as the states Childrens Ombudsman, a position that allowed her to advocate for children and parents caught up in the Department of Children and Families orbit. Her bosses had accused her of perhaps advocating too strongly, saying she sometimes disparaged the department in efforts to help struggling families.

Earlier this month, DCF sought custody of a 12-year-old boy Rosenberg adopted from foster care. The boy and his two adoptive siblings had become the subject of a tug-of-war between DCF and Rosenberg, who claimed the agency reneged on promises of financial help raising the three children if she agreed to adopt them. All three children had been born with significant special needs.

The 12-year-old, who is not being named by the Miami Herald to protect his privacy, has spent the last 18 months in a Brevard County psychiatric center for troubled children. Hospital administrators say he is ready for release, but Heather and Evan Rosenberg, her husband, say neither the 12-year-old nor his siblings would be safe without substantial in-home behavioral supports.

Paying for intensive behavioral intervention at the home  without reimbursement from the state  could cost the family $120,000-per-year, all out-of-pocket, Rosenberg testified. Much of the familys conflict with DCF  including a lawsuit that remains under appeal  has been about who is responsible for the costly care and services the boy and his siblings require.

Im sorry, but were not independently wealthy here, she said. We are not wealthy, and we cant afford that.

When the couple refused to reclaim the child from the Devereux Behavioral Health center, DCF filed a petition to take custody of him. Administrators also referred the Rosenbergs to the Leon County Sheriffs Office to face possible charges of felony child abandonment.

Though the Rosenbergs have not been charged with any crimes, the investigation itself already has had serious consequences: Heather Rosenberg testified Friday that the Boy Scouts of America stripped her of a leadership post she held in Leon County. That, in turn, prompted the group to shutter a scouting troop to which Rosenbergs adoptive daughter belonged.

The troop is now suspended, Rosenberg testified. Our daughter and the other girls in the troop cant meet.

READ MORE: Florida child welfare agency wages legal battle, seeks felony charge for ex-watchdog

Leadership involved in the conversation

DCFs pursuit of the couple has been unusual from the beginning. Heather Rosenberg worked as DCFs Childrens Ombudsman from 2016 until last year, a position that required her to fight on behalf of kids and parents in the foster care system  and sometimes against the wishes of her own bosses.

A DCF lawyer complained to the agencys Inspector General that she gave advice to families on how to challenge and undermine department rules, policy and legal counsel, and suggested that some families file legal claims when their requests for help were rebuffed. She even sued her bosses in an effort to get help for her own adoptive children.

DCFs decision to seek criminal charges against their own former watchdog also was remarkable: such charges are so rare as to be almost unheard-of. A retired child welfare judge in Miami told the Herald she never once saw a family charged with abandonment during a two-decade career on the bench.

For much of the week, lawyers for DCF and the family have been seeking a resolution to the dispute short of formally removing the boy from the Rosenbergs custody.

But at a hearing Friday morning before Leon Circuit Judge Anthony Miller, a DCF lawyer said he was not authorized to settle the dispute on his own. Nick Dolce, a DCF child welfare lawyer, told the judge decisions in the case were being made at levels far above mine.

Leadership, Dolce said, needs to [be] involved in the conversation. He added: I do know that I wont be able to resolve this without consulting my leadership.

From the beginning, Heather Rosenberg had suggested that agency administrators were using her personal misfortune to make an example for other potential critics.

Theyre frustrated with me for holding them accountable to the promises that theyve made to the children of this state, she told the Herald earlier this week following earlier testimony.

I want my child home

On Friday, Rosenberg took the stand  virtually, as the hearing was being held via the Internet  for the second time this week. She testified her middle child, who was born with significant special needs as the result of his mothers alcoholism during pregnancy, is the light and joy of [their] universe. But when he reached puberty, he became increasingly aggressive and difficult to manage. Mood-stabilizing drugs helped, but he could not remain on them due to side effects.

We adopted all these kiddos because we love them, she said of her three children. Thats why we are fighting so hard for them. Sometimes, when we are advocating for what we need, some parties think theyve been antagonized.

I want my child home, she added.

She testified that, prior to the boys hospitalization, he had been repeatedly committed under the states Baker Act for psychiatric treatment. In most cases, he was released after only a few days with little improvement.

Because there are so few mental health beds in Leon County, Rosenberg testified, the boy sometimes had to wait. Once or twice, she said, hospital workers told her she and her son could stay in the emergency department for a week waiting for a bed to open  an option that would have left her other children without a mother at home.

While living with his parents in Tallahassee, the boy had become increasingly unstable both at home and in school, Rosenberg testified. Under questioning by the judge, she said he had eloped from his school one day, ran into some nearby woods, grabbed a piece of wood to use as a weapon and slapped a group of kindergarteners as he ran back into the school.

The incident was one of the events that prompted the family to seek in-patient treatment for their son.

During his stay at the Brevard County residential center, the boy showed progress in reducing the frequency of his aggressive outbursts, a development that led the center to seek his discharge. But, Rosenberg added, records showed he still had to be physically restrained by staff five times over the last four months  including once for attacking a staff member, once for assaulting another resident, and one time for exposing himself.

Under cross examination, Dolce asked Rosenberg if it was true that staff at the psychiatric hospital believed the boy was no longer a threat to himself or others. Rosenberg said conditions were entirely different at a locked behavioral health facility than a private home. He is receiving an intensive level of care at the institution, she said, including the presence of staff trained and physically capable of restraining him.

Thats all we ever asked for, she said. We wanted all our children to be safe in the home.
The first group of Ukrainian pilots has completed training on US state-of-the-art F-16 fighter jets at a military base in Arizona, USA. They are now heading to Europe to receive additional training.

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This was stated by Erin Hannigan, a spokeswoman for the Arizona Air National Guard, on Thursday, May 23, Politico reported. The Ukrainians were trained at the 162nd Air National Guard Base in Tucson.

"The first group of Ukrainian pilots has completed F-16 training at a military base in Arizona, a crucial step towards sending modern American-made fighters into the skies of Ukraine," she said.

At the same time, Hannigan did not disclose the number of Ukrainian pilots who have completed the F-16 training, nor did she say the exact date of it for security reasons.

According to the publication's sources, the pilots are now heading to Europe for additional training.

At the end of February 2024, Hannigan said that the first group of four Ukrainian pilots would complete the F-16 training program by the summer of 2024. According to her, one group began F-16 training in mid-October 2023, and another in January 2024.

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As reported, F-16 maintenance specialists have begun to return to Ukraine from training abroad. The specialists who have returned home will be able to share their knowledge and experience with colleagues.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
File cabinets. (Getty)

One of the less noticed features of the Virginia Way is the long-running tendency of the commonwealths leaders to conduct their decision-making behind closed doors. While the Virginia Freedom of Information Act presumes all government business is by default public and requires officials to justify why exceptions should be made, too many Virginia leaders in practice take the opposite stance, acting as if records are by default private and the public must prove they should be handled otherwise.

In this feature, we aim to highlight the frequency with which officials around Virginia are resisting public access to records on issues large and small  and note instances when the release of information under FOIA gave the public insight into how government bodies are operating.

AGs email informed UMW leaders reaction to student protests

After 12 people, including 9 students, were arrested at a pro-Palestinian protest at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg last month, new details are emerging about university leaders response to the event, which was shaped by guidance from the office of Attorney General Jason Miyares.

An April 26 email from Deputy Attorney General for Health, Education, and Social Services Rob Bell to Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera, which the Mercury obtained from the university on Thursday through a FOIA request, defines the attorney generals official stance on campus protests, the same day protesters created an encampment on UMWs grounds.

It is the legal position of the Office of the Attorney General that setting up a tent or establishing an encampment on university or college property is disruptive of the schools activities and may violate other administrative policies, the missive read. Colleges and universities had the authority to refuse to allow such activity and to take down any tents that have been set up. The AGs office would vigorously defend the institutions if they met with challenges to these powers, the email concluded.

UMW President Troy Paino referenced the legal guidance when, on April 30, he met with a group of students seeking answers about the universitys decision to clear the encampment and arrest the protesters the preceding weekend, according to the Fredericksburg Free Press.

A student asked Paino whether the Youngkin administration ordered the arrests of the 12 protesters who refused to leave an encampment, which Paino denied, saying it was the he and the universitys board of visitors made that call themselves without outside influence.

However, at one point during the meeting, Paino showed the students a document outlining the administrations stance against the student encampments unfolding across the country, the Free Press reported.

Another student attendee at the meeting with Paino said the schools president revealed the students arrested in the protest wouldnt be expelled or face academic suspension, and their only consequence would probably be a warning for not following the schools order to leave the encampment.

He came across as sincere and that he knows that the university couldve responded better, the student said.

The Mercurys efforts to track FOIA and other transparency cases in Virginia are indebted to the work of the Virginia Coalition for Open Government, a nonprofit alliance dedicated to expanding access to government records, meetings and other state and local proceedings.

Former Petersburg schools superintendents spending scrutinized

Petersburgs former schools superintendent Dr. Tamara Sterling, who resigned suddenly in March without explanation, racked up $22,000 traveling to multiple conferences across the country over a 15-month period, public records of her travel expenses show.

Though its common for school division leaders to attend professional conferences to build skills and gain insights from their peers in other states, WTVR investigative reporter Melissa Hipolit, who obtained the expense reports through a public records request, found that Sterling spent more than double what the Henrico County superintendent spent, 14 times what the Hopewell superintendent spent, and 43 times what the Chesterfield superintendent spent on travel over the same time period, February 2023 to February 2024.

Sterling booked more than one hotel room for herself when attending three of the five conferences Hipolit reviewed. The conference trips to California, Nevada, Florida, Texas and Louisiana included several instances of extra hotel stays by Sterling, who in one case stayed seven days for a conference that lasted just two days.

Parents of students in Petersburgs economically challenged schools were critical of Sterlings spending from the divisions coffers, as was the areas General Assembly representative, Sen. Lashrecse Aird, D-Petersburg.

There just really is no rationale that can be used to explain the excess thats appearing in the records that you found, Aird told WTVRs Hipolit in an on-camera interview.

Hipolit reported that Aird is collaborating with the Virginia Department of Education to ensure greater enforcement and oversight of Petersburg schools so something like this does not happen again.

Chesterfield police wont release body cam footage from shooting that left mentally ill man dead

The Chesterfield County Police Department has refused to release body camera footage from a July 2023 incident wherein officers shot and killed a mentally ill man who was holding a hatchet, despite multiple requests for the footage from the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Charles Byers had been placed under a 72-hour detention for mental health treatment at Chippenham Hospitals Tucker Pavilion two days before officers encountered him, as they responded to reports that Byers was attempting to break into homes in a neighborhood near Wycliff Court. Exactly how the situation escalated to deadly gunfire remains in dispute; officers said Byers wouldnt drop the hatchet when they told him to, and that they tased him without effect before Byers began advancing on them. At that point, officers said, they shot him.

Byers family, represented by attorney Paul Curley, contradicted that account, saying body camera footage showed Byers holding the hatchet down by his knee during the incident, backing away from officers after they tased him, and being shot in the back while fleeing from police.

I was expecting to see some justifiable reason for shooting him, Curley said. They basically just gunned him down.

The Times-Dispatch requested to review the body camera footage on April 3, after officials announced the officers involved in the fatal shooting would not be criminally charged. That request was denied, as was the papers subsequent FOIA request, which police withheld pursuant to the closed investigations exemption under Virginias FOIA, the paper reported. Police spokesperson Liz Caroon on April 8 invited the papers reporters to come to police headquarters to view the footage, but scheduling conflicts prevented them from attending. When the paper asked if another viewing could be arranged, Caroon declined.

Curley said Chesterfield police requested and received a protective order preventing the body camera footage from being released or shared.

If there is nothing to hide, then they shouldnt have any problem with the video coming out, Curley said. But they have gone to extraordinary lengths to hide it  Theyre definitely covering up some stuff on purpose.

Have you experienced local or state officials denying or delaying your FOIA request? Tell us about it: info@virginiamercury.com







The post FOIA Friday: AGs university protest guidance, former Petersburg superintendents pricey trips appeared first on Virginia Mercury.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  There have been 52 homicides in Charlotte so far in 2024, which is an increase from the same period last year. The Biden-Harris Campaign hosted a roundtable in west Charlotte Thursday to talk about gun violence.

Clydia Hemingway-Davis was a part of the discussion. She still remembers her son who was shot and killed in Charlotte in 2019.

Charlotte Airport workers strike, hold picket lines as holiday travel ramps up

He was 22 years old, he had only been 22 for eight days then he was buried a day before Mothers Day, Hemingway-Davis said. Its time to take accountability and responsibility. The criminals need to be held accountable.

Jacqueline Lewis also participated in the roundtable. She lost her son and grandson to gun violence.

My grandson shot and killed by a gun. I watched a 16-year-old get his head blown off with a gun. How does a 16-year-old get a gun? Lewis asked. Im very concerned about gun control in our city. Im very concerned about it because I lost my son, because I lost my grandchild.

A 14-year-old boy was shot in the woods Wednesday in northeast Charlotte, just hours after a man was shot and killed inside his vehicle on North Tryon Street.

It breaks my heart every time I go out to a homicide scene and then Im told its a juvenile, a Black, young juvenile, Lewis said.

The group says this upcoming election is critical for violence reduction.

Its very important that you know who youre voting for and what they stand for, Lewis said.

Just last weekend, Former president Donald Trump received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association. Trump pledged to protect the right to bear arms which he claims is under siege.

Hemingway-Davis says shes supporting President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris this November for her son and other gun violence victims.

Its not about taking away gun rights at all, Hemingway-Davis said. Its about keeping people safe and sensible guns. We have no need for assault rifles.

Late last year, Biden established the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention for the first time in history to help reduce violence in communities.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, program officer for disability rights at the Ford Foundation, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on Kentucky Lantern.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges that people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, a disability advocate and former executive director of the National Council on Disability, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, a disability advocate and former executive director of the National Council on Disability, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday (Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom).

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, a disability advocate and former executive director of the National Council on Disability, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on Missouri Independent.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Jennifer Shutt | States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers, and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean, and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, a disability advocate and former executive director of the National Council on Disability, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children, Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on New Hampshire Bulletin.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, a disability advocate and former executive director of the National Council on Disability, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

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Correction: This story was updated to correct Rebecca Cokleys title.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
Germany has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. This package includes Leopard 1 tanks, HIMARS MLRS, shells, and other weapons needed by the Defense Forces.

ADVERTISIMENT

This was reported by the press service of the German government. The Armed Forces will also receive dozens of VECTOR and RQ-35 HEIDRUN reconnaissance drones.

The full list of contents of the new military support package from Germany is as follows:

ten LEOPARD 1 A5 main battle tanks (jointly with Denmark);

3 HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems;

20 shells for LEOPARD 2, MARDER and DACHS;

8,500 155 mm shells;

20 VECTOR reconnaissance drones with spare parts;

34 RQ-35 HEIDRUN reconnaissance drones;

one BEAVER bridgehead tank with spare parts;

one armored engineering vehicle DACHS;

one Bergepanzer 2 armored repair and recovery vehicle with spare parts;

four WISENT 1 mine-resistant tanks with spare parts;

two mine-clearing plows;

16 Zetros tank trucks;

400 LED lamps;

530 MK 556 assault rifles;

80 HLR 338 high-precision rifles with 60 thousand rounds of ammunition;

ADVERTISIMENT

111 CR 308 rifles;

1.8 million rounds of ammunition for firearms.

Germany supports Ukraine through the supply of federal troops and industrial goods financed by federal funds.

Earlier it was reported that Germany is open to using the proceeds of frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine in the war with Russia and is ready to quickly redirect these funds. It is about the income, not the assets themselves.

As a reminder, Germany is to hand over another IRIS-T air defense system to Ukraine. Its delivery is expected this month.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, program officer for disability rights at the Ford Foundation, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

Forced sterilization in South Dakota

According to the National Womens Law Center, there is no specific law on forced sterilizations in South Dakota:

In South Dakota, the guardian can usually make health care decisions for the person under guardianship. But the law does not say anything about sterilization specifically. In some states, courts have said that this kind of general law about health care allows forced sterilizations. In other states, courts have said that the law has to mention sterilization specifically. We do not know what a court in South Dakota would say. Also, in South Dakota, there is a law about health care during an emergency. The law says that if someone cannot consent during an emergency (like if they are not awake), a doctor cannot do a sterilization. But this law is only about emergencies.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on South Dakota Searchlight.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, program officer for disability rights at the Ford Foundation, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities. Iowa is among states that allow forced sterilization, including for children, according to the Law Center report.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley speaks during a press conference on reproductive rights for people with disabilities outside the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday thats intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent.

Buck v. Bell is a decision of the United States Supreme Court in which the court ruled on May 2, 1927, affirming the constitutionality of Virginias law allowing state-enforced sterilization, Pressley said.

Pressley said people outside of the disability rights community often arent aware of the ruling or the fact it has never been challenged.

Theyre in disbelief that this even happened and that this ruling authorizes involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities and has never been overturned, Pressley said.

Unique barriers

The four-page resolution would designate one day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day.

The resolution says that people with disabilities face unique barriers when accessing reproductive health care, including harmful stereotypes, communication barriers and a lack of accessible health care facilities, among other obstacles.

It adds that Congress pledges to advance the right of people with disabilities to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray introduced the companion resolution in that chamber.

Murray wrote in a statement announcing the introduction that Americans with disabilities have long had to jump through extra hoops and faced real discrimination when it comes to accessing the health care they need, including abortion care.

Access to reproductive health care has been in crisis since the Dobbs decision, making it even harder for people with disabilities to access high-quality care from providers who understand their health care needs, Murray wrote. Its important that we recognize the barriers millions of women face in accessing reproductive health care, and this resolution is an important marker for us all to recommit to the fight for reproductive justice for all.

Co-sponsors in the House include New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean and Washington Rep. Adam Smith. All are Democrats.

Access to full slate of care

Rebecca Cokley, program officer for disability rights at the Ford Foundation, told a story during the press conference about how after having her middle child, the anesthesiologist told the OB-GYN to tie her tubes, adding that people like her dont need to have any more babies.

Cokley said her OB-GYN could have advocated for that and it would have been perfectly legal.

When we talk about reproductive justice, its about the idea that all women, all people have the right to have children, the right to not have children. Cokley said. The right to nurture the children we have in a safe and healthy environment.

Jess Davidson, communications director at the American Association of People with Disabilities, discussed how access to the full slate of reproductive health care, including abortion, is crucial for people with disabilities.

Members of the community, she said, have an 11 times greater risk of mortality from pregnancy.

I know all too well the fear that comes with living with that kind of risk, Davidson said. I felt deep in my bones as a young woman that I was made for motherhood.

After being diagnosed with an illness in her mid-20s that significantly increased her chances of miscarriage or maternal mortality, Davidson said she spoke with her doctor about whether or not she should ever get pregnant.

I was devastated when I first learned this, but my doctor assured me that if I was willing to get an abortion if it were necessary to save my life and work closely with a high-risk obstetrician, that I could try and see how it went, Davidson said. After all, every person and every pregnancy is different.

That was all before the Supreme Court in 2022 overturned the constitutional right to an abortion that had stood for nearly 50 years under two prior rulings.

Now when I think about attempting a high-risk pregnancy, I feel so fearful that it feels like I cant breathe, she said. And I am someone who lives in Colorado and Washington, D.C., two places where my right to that life-saving care is still intact.

Many people with disabilities who want to have children, Davidson said, now live in states that ban or significantly restrict abortion access, even if continuing a pregnancy threatens their life or health.

Forced sterilization in state laws

Maayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Womens Law Center, said that 31 states have laws in place that allow forced sterilization of people with disabilities.

These laws give judges the power to disregard a disabled persons wishes and make the decision for them, supposedly for their own good, Anafi said.

In doing so they echo many of the same harmful narratives that fueled forced sterilizations  that disabled people cant or shouldnt make decisions about their bodies and parenting, Anafi added. And that its justifiable to take those choices away to protect disabled people from themselves.

The post Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
COLBERT COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  Former Colbert County Principal Melcha Satchel has appealed his recent firing by the Colbert County Board of Education, the boards attorney tells News 19.

Board Attorney Jon McGee said Thursday that Satchel has chosen to appeal after he was fired earlier this month. Satchels contract was canceled on May 10 after an extended board meeting discussing accusations against the former principal.

Decatur Police Chief says department reviewing officer conduct after community concerns

McGee clarified Thursday that the board chose to cancel Satchels contract for violations of board policy and failure to create an action plan to address Colbert County High Schools state report card.

The board attorney said Satchel violated board policy by sending a student to an alternative school program without notifying the Superintendent or school board.

That denies the student their right to due process before the board, McGee said.

Previously, McGee told News 19 that if Satchel did appeal the decision the matter would go to the Colbert County Circuit Court.

McGee said there was a hearing on Thursday to discuss scheduling with the court, and an appeal hearing was set for June 24.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
A former Lexington pastor has been indicted on eight felony counts of illegal use of a minor or impaired person in nudity-oriented material or performance.

Chris Brown, an assistant Richland County prosecutor, confirmed on Friday that Chase Michael Smith, 23, is charged with eight counts of pandering obscenity involving a minor.

A former Lexington pastor has been indicted on eight felony counts of illegal use of a minor or impaired person in nudity oriented material or performance.

"This is a child pornography case and, because of the sensitive nature of the charges, I don't want to comment on any specifics at this time," Brown said.

According to Richland County Common Pleas Court records, a warrant on arrest and indictment for Smith, of Bellville, was issued to the Richland County Sheriff's Office May 13.

Smith listed on his Facebook page employment as director of worship at Grace Church of Lexington, Der Dutchman and Snow Trails.

Nathaniel Foote, lead pastor at Grace Church, told the News Journal Friday that Smith, who worked part-time at the church, is no longer employed there.

Richland County Sheriff's Office received tips from ICAC

The Richland County Sheriff's Office in May 2023 received a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program with video evidence regarding a possible sex offense that was alleged to have occurred Nov. 23, 2022, according to a sheriff's office report.

According to the initial sheriff's report, Smith went to the sheriff's office Aug. 31 for a voluntary interview.

Deputy Gio Masi in his report wrote that Smith told him he understood he was being interviewed about something about a Dropbox and that he had gotten into "regular porn." Smith further said he was using the communications app Telegram where Smith interacted with groups of people in which files were downloaded that had child porn in them.

Smith told Masi how he would join a group by typing in "gay porn" which he said was what he was previously into before he had mentors in his life to change his life, according to the case supplemental report.

Smith explained upon request by Masi how he obtained and downloaded the files. Masi said he told him he had downloaded "probably over 100" files since he was 18. Smith said he started using Telegram in January 2021. During the interview, Masi reported, Smith said he would download files in large quantity of gay pornography but he would have a child pornography in the downloads as well. This was all done on his phone, Smith said. Masi asked Smith if he had any of the files left and Smith said no because his father had learned about what he was searching, the report shows.

Masi asked Smith why he downloaded more than 100 files of child pornography, to which Smith replied he would do it for "pleasure."

Masi asked Smith what had changed between then and now. Smith said he wanted to do better in life and gay pornography was not good for him as he wanted to have a life and a family.

A second sheriff's report, dated April 1, was filed regarding a cyber tip made by the same user of the same gmail account as in the first instance. The case remains under investigation, the report said.

Masi sent a subpoena to Charter Communications regarding one of the videos flagged in the tip in which the address associated with the uploaded files came back to the Bellville, address where Smith at that time resided. The video shows two minor males engaging in sexual activities, the report said.

No address regarding where the accusations or charges occurred are listed on the recent indictment due to Ohio House Bill 343, also known as Marsys Law, which aims to protect victims.

Bond information for Smith

Court records show Smith was ordered a $100,000 cash or surety bond and a personal recognizance bond May 14. Smith was ordered May 16 to have no contact with the victim, co-defendant or property.

At an arraignment Friday before Richland County Common Pleas Court Magistrate Mackenzie Mayer, Smith was ordered to have no internet access, not possess any electronic devices and have electronic monitoring if granted bail. Smith retained local attorney Jerry Thompson, according to the clerk of courts office.

Smith remains in the Richland County Jail.

lwhitmir@gannett.com

419-521-7223

X (formerly Twitter): @LWhitmir

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Ex-Lexington pastor indicted on charges related to child pornography
Former Newville Borough Manager headed to court on charges of mishandling funds

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A former manager for a Cumberland County borough accused of mishandling hundreds of thousands of dollars was in court.

Fred Potzer, of Newville, waived his preliminary hearing while in court Thursday on charges that accuse him of mishandling funds while he was the Newville Borough Manager, a position he held for 28 years before he was fired.

By waiving a preliminary hearing in Pennsylvania, a defendant acknowledges that the Commonwealth enough evidence to take him trial, and allows it to proceed through court without having the hearing.

Potzer is facing felony charges of tampering with public record/information and access device fraud. Hes also facing misdemeanors of misapplication of entrusted property and property of government or financial institutions, as well as tampering with public record/information.

Previous coverage -> Former Newville Borough Manager charged with financial crimes

An audit discovered 65 treasurer reports from Dec. 2017 to Nov. 2022 that were inaccurate.

The county District Attorneys Office first learned of the mishandled funds after being notified by Borough Council and Newville Water and Sewer Authority about financial irregularities. Potzer worked for both entities before he took ill in December 2022 and had not been into work.

Money from the Water and Sewer Authority was used to cover borough payments, including buying a police vehicle, because there was no money coming in, Potzer told investigators.

Potzer indicated he was robbing from Peter to pay Paul. Investigators say that Potzer did not use any money for himself.

In December Newville Borough Council passed a 2024 budget that increased property taxes by 50%. It also increased the boroughs income tax and cut one of three remaining police officers.

Officials said they were $600,000 over budget and a forensic audit was underway.

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We didnt know why, and we still dont know where the money went or how it was distributed but we know it was being improperly distributed intentionally, said Borough Solicitor Marcus McKnight in December.

Potzer is on unsecured bail that was set at $10,000 and is scheduled to be formally arraigned on Aug. 12, online court records state.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
A former nurse in Britain has been denied an attempt to appeal her murder and attempted convictions related to the deaths of several babies in 2015 and 2016 (London Court of Appeal pictured). Photo courtesy of British Courts and Tribunals Judiciary

May 24 (UPI) -- A former nurse in Britain has been denied an attempt to appeal her murder and attempted murder convictions related to the deaths of several babies in 2015 and 2016.

A three-judge panel on the London Court of Appeal on Friday denied a request by lawyers for Lucy Letby who were seeking to appeal her convictions.

Letby, a former neonatal nurse was convicted last August of killing seven infants under her care in the Countess of Chester Hospital where she worked, in the city of Chester in northwest Britain.

She was also charged with the attempted murder of six more infants and convicted on five counts. Letby faces a retrial in one of the cases after a jury could not reach a verdict.

The judge at the time said Letby carried out the crimes with "premeditation, calculation and cunning" in handing down a life sentence with no chance of parole.

A three-judge panel on the London Court of Appeal on Friday denied a request by lawyers for Lucy Letby who were seeking to appeal her convictions after being found guilty last August of killing seven infants under her care in the Countess of Chester Hospital where she worked. File Photo courtesy of Cheshire Police

After a brief hearing Friday, the three judges unanimously denied the petition to hear Letby's appeal.

Letby's legal team cited four points in its grounds for appeal, which remain under a publication ban.

The judges' full written explanation for denying the bid to appeal had not been made public as of Friday afternoon.

The ruling marks the end of the appeal process for the 34-year-old who did not attend her original sentencing hearings, sparking British authorities to propose a new law that would compel offenders to apear for such proceedings.

Last October, police launched a corporate manslaughter investigation into the hospital that employed Letby.

The names of the victims and their families also cannot be reported.
Former Baltimore City State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby with supporter Ben Crump outside the U.S. District Court in Greenbelt after Mosby's sentencing Thursday. Photo by Bryan Sears

Former Baltimore City States Attorney Marilyn Mosby will serve no time in jail.

The Democrat, convicted earlier this year of two counts of perjury and one count of mortgage fraud, will instead serve three years supervised release. One year of that will be served under home confinement as part of a sentence handed down Thursday in Greenbelt by U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby.

I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Mosby told a throng of supporters and reporters gathered outside the U.S. District Courthouse. Thank you for the fight. Thank you to everyone that signed that petition.

Mosbys brief comments followed a daylong sentencing hearing, during which she declined an opportunity to speak to the judge on her own behalf.

Prosecutors led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Delaney rejected arguments that the case brought against Mosby was unique or aimed at her because of her politics.

This case is not novel, they are prosecuted daily, Delaney said of such cases. This is not selective prosecution.

Prosecutors sought 20 months in jail plus supervised release, as well the forfeiture of Mosbys Florida vacation home in Longboat Key. That was more than the 12-18 months in prison recommended in a presentence report, along with as much as five years supervised release.

But Griggsby rejected any jail time.

After careful consideration and reflection, I have also determined that that sentence is not appropriate in this case, the judge said.

Former Baltimore City States Attorney Marilyn Mosby walks out of the U.S. District Court in Greenbelt with her daughers Thursday after Mosbys sentencing. Photo by Bryan Sears

Instead, Griggsby opted for supervised release and imposed the sentences concurrently. She also included the requirement that Mosby forfeit a Florida vacation home. Mosbys attorneys argued that she is entitled to roughly 10% of the value of the home, which has nearly doubled since she purchased it nearly four years ago for about $430,000.

Griggsby agreed, saying Mosby can receive 10% of the increased value of the home once it is sold. Mosbys attorneys said they will ask for a stay of the forfeiture order while they appeal the conviction.

Griggsby, as she handed down her sentence, addressed Mosby directly.

The court begins with a lament, Griggsby said. This is a sad and difficult day.

The court agrees these are very serious offenses and that this conduct displays a pattern of dishonesty, she said, noting Mosbys roles as the top prosecutor in the city and her service to the community.

But the judge said the funds Mosby obtained to buy the Florida house were not public funds and that there was no indication of any misconduct in public office. The money she represented as a gift was her own money and not public funds.

Most significantly to this court, you are a mother of two daughters and the issue of incarceration and separating a mother from her daughters does weigh very heavily on this court in assessing what sentence to impose, Griggsby said.

Mosby maintains her innocence. She and her attorneys have vowed to appeal her conviction to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Mosby has also applied for a presidential pardon. Nearly 70,000 people have signed an online petition supporting her efforts.

Supporters bused in to sit in the courtroom and in overflow rooms, watched as 13 people testified on Mosbys behalf. Some of those were among the 30 people who also wrote letters asking for leniency.

Mosby, 44, was still the top prosecutor in Baltimore City when she was charged two years ago with lying on an application to withdraw funds from her city pension account. Mosby, who earned more than $247,000 in the job, claimed she had suffered financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The claims were related to a company she created that ultimately had no clients and conducted no business.

Mosby also was accused of lying to hide the source of money used to purchase a home in Longboat Key, which is used as a vacation rental. She told loan officers under oath that her now ex-husband, Baltimore City Council President Nick Mosby, had given her $5,000 as a gift toward the home when in fact she gave her husband the cash to transfer back to her.

Mosbys team asked the judge to credit her for time served for the time she was in custody as U.S. Marshals fingerprinted and photographed her after she was initially charged  what they conceded was a token benefit for Mosby. They also asked for supervised release with six months served as home confinement.

This is not a public corruption case, said James Wyda, Mosbys lead public defender. All of the allegations involved Miss Mosbys personal finances.

More than a dozen people, including family members, prosecutors who served under Mosby in Baltimore City, defense attorneys and others asked Griggsby for leniency. Most cited Mosbys efforts to restore community trust in the criminal justice system. They called for the judge to not separate Mosby from her daughters.

Several told Griggsby the prosecution was meant as a chilling message to other Black, progressive prosecutors who challenge the legal system and hold police accountable.

History teaches us that pioneers are targets, said Ben Crump, a Florida-based civil rights and personal injury attorney, who joined Mosby outside the courthouse Thursday.

Former Baltimore City States Attorney Marilyn Mosby iistens as the Rev. Kobi Little, president of the Maryland State NAACP, speaks outside the U.S. District Court in Greenbelt where Mosby was sentenced Thursday. Photo by Bryan Sears.

Crump called Mosbys conviction  a minor white-collar crime. He said jail time for a nonviolent offense with no victims would be out of line with the sentences handed down to others for similar crimes that amounted to a slap on the wrist.

What is different here today is that under the white collar is the neck of a Black woman who dared to challenge the status quo, Crump said.

When the Florida attorney made those comments during the hearing, it drew an audible reaction from some Mosby supporters seated in the courtroom. Griggsby admonished onlookers on four occasions and repeatedly threatened to clear the courtroom if outbursts continued.

Griggsby, who is Black, questioned defense attorneys about statements from Mosbys supporters that the case was racially motivated. Wyda sought to distance Mosbys defense from those comments

Ill be candid with you, Wyda said to the judge. Do I wish the speakers today had not gone there? Yes. Maybe I wouldnt be fielding the tenor of these questions, but it is a sentiment in the community. It is an honest feeling.

The post Former prosecutor Mosby gets probation for perjury, false claims convictions appeared first on Maryland Matters.
DENVER (KDVR)  Former Colorado social worker Robin Niceta was convicted of making false child abuse claims against a member of Aurora City Council and sentenced to four years in prison.

Niceta was convicted of a felony count of attempting to influence a public servant and misdemeanor charge after she made an anonymous tip in 2022 accusing Aurora City Council member Danielle Jurinsky of sexually abusing her son.

Niceta reports child sexual abuse against council member

At the time of the accusation, Niceta was in a romantic relationship with now-former Aurora Police Chief Vanessa Wilson. One day before the false claim was made, Jurinsky criticized Wilson on a radio show.

After the false report, investigators found no evidence of wrongdoing by the councilwoman but traced the call back to Niceta.

Nicetas trial came to a halt last year when she informed the court of a brain tumor. Nicetas attorneys told a judge she was incompetent to stand trial because of a brain tumor diagnosis.

Niceta was then accused of falsifying medical records after Nicetas oncologist was nowhere to be found, and the provided MRI images were stock images of glioblastoma and were found with a basic Google image search of the word glioblastoma, prosecutors say.

Nicetas defense team filed a motion on May 11 dropping Niceta as a client once it was revealed the medical records they submitted were likely fake.

Niceta now faces more charges after being accused of allegedly faking a brain tumor to avoid a criminal trial.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Former US Marine pilot can be extradited, Australian magistrate rules

Former U.S. Marines Corp pilot Daniel Duggan poses for a picture in this undated handout picture

By Kirsty Needham

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Former U.S. Marine pilot Daniel Duggan can be extradited from Australia to face U.S. charges of training Chinese military pilots to land on aircraft carriers, a Sydney magistrate ruled on Friday.

Duggan, 55, a naturalised Australian citizen, is facing U.S. charges including money laundering and breaking arms control law by training Chinese military pilots to land on aircraft carriers. He denies the allegations.

He has 15 days to seek a review of the magistrate's ruling. The decision to extradite will ultimately be made by Australia's Attorney General.

Outside court his wife Saffrine said the family would appeal to Attorney General Mark Dreyfus to refuse the extradition.

One of seven co-conspirators in a U.S. indictment is convicted Chinese hacker Su Bin, although Duggan's lawyers argue the hacking case is unrelated.

Duggan was arrested by Australian federal police in a rural town in New South Wales state in October 2022, shortly after returning from China, where he had lived since 2014.

In the same week, Britain issued a warning to its former defence staff not to train Chinese People's Liberation Army pilots at a South African flying academy where Duggan had also worked.

Duggan, whose wife and six children are also Australian, has been held in a maximum security prison since his arrest. Saffrine placed her hand against the glass window to the dock where Duggan sat in court on Friday.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss said the criteria for extradition had been met. "Mr Duggan is eligible for surrender," he said.

Duggan's lawyers had previously argued there is no evidence the Chinese pilots he trained were military, and that he became an Australian citizen in January 2012, before the alleged offences.

The United States government has argued Duggan did not lose his U.S. citizenship until 2016, when he signed a document renouncing it in the U.S. embassy in Beijing.

Duggan was barred from leaving China in 2014, his lawyer wrote in a filing to the attorney general, and knew Su Bin as an employment broker for Chinese aviation company AVIC.

Su Bin pleaded guilty in 2016 to theft of U.S. military aircraft designs by hacking major U.S. defence contractors.

(Reporting by Kirsty Needham in Sydney; Editing by Stephen Coates)
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is ready to start negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. His condition is that Kyiv recognizes the "borders" along which the front line now runs. According to the dictator, Russia's success in the war is now enough to "sell" the victory to the Russian people.

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Reuters writes about this, citing four sources in Russia. According to the agency, Putin is ready to wage war and seize more territory to force Ukraine and the West to negotiate.

Thus, the sources said that the fighting would continue if Moscow's proposal remains unanswered.

Three sources familiar with the discussions in Putin's inner circle said he expressed frustration to a small group of close associates that Ukraine refuses to negotiate with Russia on his terms, and that the West is supporting it.

"Putin can fight as long as he needs to, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war," said another senior Russian source out of four who has worked with Putin and is aware of the top-level discussions in the Kremlin.

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Reuters added that it had spoken to a total of five people who work or have worked with Putin at a high level. The fifth source did not comment on the freezing of the war on the current fronts.

Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, responding to a request for comment, said that the Kremlin leader has repeatedly made it clear that Russia is "open to dialogue" to achieve its goals and does not want "eternal war."

Ukraine's Foreign and Defense Ministries did not respond to the question, Reuters said.

The agency also notes that the appointment of economist Andrei Belousov as Russian Defense Minister was perceived by some Western military and political analysts as a move to put the Russian economy on permanent war footing in order to win the protracted conflict.

This follows the constant pressure on the battlefield and the aggressor country's territorial gains in recent weeks, the article says.

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Nevertheless, the agency's sources said that Putin would like to use the current dynamics of Russia's development to put the war behind him. They did not comment directly on the change of defense minister.

Based on their knowledge of the highest echelons of the Kremlin, two sources said that Putin believes that Russia's success in the war is now enough to "sell" victory to the Russian people.

In addition, three sources said: Putin understands that any new "dramatic" achievements would require another nationwide mobilization, which he would not want, and one source familiar with the dictator said that Putin's popularity has fallen since the first mobilization in September 2022.

The "national conscription" scared part of the Russian population, forcing hundreds of thousands of men of military age to leave the country, Reuters writes. Peskov later said that Russia allegedly does not need mobilization and is instead recruiting contract volunteers into its armed forces.

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The prospect of a ceasefire or even peace talks now seems remote, the agency said in its article.

It is also noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the possibility of peace on Putin's terms, promised to return the lost territories, including Crimea, and in 2022 signed a decree officially declaring any negotiations with Putin "impossible."

One source predicted that there would be no deal as long as Zelenskyy was in power unless Russia bypassed him and struck a deal with Washington.

However, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, speaking in Kyiv last week, told reporters that he did not believe Putin was interested in serious negotiations.

More...
A former Wichita physician was sentenced Friday to a decade in prison for selling opioid prescriptions for personal gain to customers without a legitimate medical need for the medications, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

Steven R. Henson, 63, admitted to writing oxycodone, methadone and alprazolam prescriptions to illegitimate patients between July 2014 and August 2015, according to his February plea agreement in U.S. District Court.

After charging $300 for a visit during non-business hours, he would often prescribe the highest-possible strength medications to customers without conducting examinations or making a serious medical determination, according to the plea agreement.

In 2019, Henson was sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of multiple counts related to the distribution of opioids. In 2022, all but two of the counts were dismissed after the Ruan v. United States Supreme Court decision that required proof of wrongdoing for convictions of medical practitioners.

Henson had been set for a February retrial. He chose instead to plead guilty to two counts of conspiracy to dispense, distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, eight counts of dispensing and aiding and abetting with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, five counts of dispensing controlled substances and six counts of money laundering.

He also had been convicted earlier of obstruction of justice and providing false records to investigators.

Wichita doctor who sold pain-med prescriptions for cash sentenced to life in prison

Wichita doctor found guilty of illegally distributing prescription drugs, attorney says
Rusty Romboldi, who owns a restaurant on Plymouth harbor, is fed up.

Foul language around little children and customers, said Romboldi.

He says a gang of kids on bikes is impacting his business.

They basically didnt follow any of the regulations, rode the bikes up and down, wheelieing and going at cars and causing havoc, he said.

People in Plymouth say the youths are causing chaos.

Ive seen them on the main road. They do pop wheelies, they get in the way of traffic and they could cause an accident, said Susan Reno, who lives in Plymouth.

A waitress who works by the waterfront says she nearly hit a bike while driving recently.

Ill be here and theyll be here and theyll just weave in front. I just think its an accident waiting to happen, said Aubrey Davies, who works in Plymouth.

Plymouth Police Chief Dana Flynn told Boston 25 that its a gang of middle school kids.

Groups of kids on bikes down the waterfront in the downtown area on bicycles, riding in the middle of the street, cursing at pedestrians and just being an overall nuisance, said Flynn.

Enough is enough: Police say Middle School bicycle gangs wreaking havoc in downtown Plymouth

Flynn says officers talked to the kids and spoke to the parents but so far, the mobile mischief keeps rolling on. So, police are now cracking down.

Its unfortunate. We are going to start issuing citations. Parents will get the citations  a $20 fine, said Flynn.

Those $20 fines will be issued to parents. If that doesnt work, police will confiscate bikes. And thats something residents here say they are happy to see.

Good idea. I think that sounds great. It should fall back on the parents if they cant control their child, said Reno.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Four dead with people trapped under rubble after Majorca building collapse

Emergency crews are working through the night to pull survivors from the rubble - CRONICABALEAR/SOLARPIX

At least four people died and about thirty were injured after the upper floor of a bar and restaurant collapsed in the popular Majorca tourist resort of Palma Beach.

Emergency teams including firefighters, ambulances and police arrived at the scene at around 8.30pm on Thursday.

Local reports suggested that at least one floor of the Medusa Beach Club gave way and collapsed to the ground, trapping customers having dinner or drinks at the venue.

Attempts to reach victims continued into the night and the local police asked people to stand back and keep noise to a minimum so that rescue workers could hear sounds from survivors who remained under the rubble.

Local reports said injured victims are being treated in various hospitals, with nine described as seriously injured.

The Foreign Office confirmed there were no reports of British nationals being involved in the incident.

Rescue teams believe more people may be trapped under the rubble - EPA

Seven people were injured "very seriously" and nine were seriously injured, according to emergency services - CRONICABALEAR/SOLARPIX.COM

No cause has been given for the collapse of the building.

Palma Beach is a busy resort area of the Majorcan capital with a large number of bars and nightclubs, popular with German and British tourists.

Raul Pursnami, owner of a fashion store next to the affected premises, was quoted by the Spanish newspaper El Pais as saying that a loud noise accompanied the collapse. I was leaving the premises and everything has fallen down, its a shame.

Theoretically, an inspection has to be done every year. We are terribly affected; I cant talk, they were my neighbours.

The resort is in a busy part of Majorca that is popular with tourists - AP

Emergency teams have set up cordons - EPA

Pedro Sanchez, Spains prime minister, responded to the roof collapse in Majorca and pledged to provide state resources to help.

I am closely following the consequences of the terrible collapse that occurred on the beach of Palma, Mr Sanchez said on X.

He added that he had spoken to local and regional authorities, adding the government is ready to help with all the means and troops that are necessary.

I want to send my condolences to the families of the deceased and my wish for a speedy recovery to the injured, he said.

Pictures showed the injured being removed from the rubble on stretchers and people hugging near the scene.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: We are aware of an incident in Palma, and there are currently no reports of British nationals having been involved. We remain in contact with the Spanish authorities.

01:14 AM BST

The search continues

Emergency teams are still searching the rubble in Palma Beach.

So far four people are dead and at least 30 are injured, including 16 who are seriously hurt.

Were ending our live coverage of the story now  but check back here for the latest updates throughout the night.

12:06 AM BST

Police plead for quiet as they search the rubble

Emergency crews are finalising search and rescue operations and securing the area, a spokesperson for the local police told radio station RNE around midnight local time (11pm UK).

That is why now we ask you silence because we need silence to see if we hear someone, he said, adding that he could not rule out that someone was still trapped.

The terrace has come down, probably due to excessive weight, he said, adding that the causes are still being investigated.

Rescuers are sifting through the rubble - EPA

11:11 PM BST

No reports of Britons killed or hurt

The Foreign Office has confirmed there are no reports of British nationals being involved in the incident.

A spokesman said: We are aware of an incident in Palma, and there are currently no reports of British nationals having been involved. We remain in contact with the Spanish authorities.

11:10 PM BST

Two floors may have collapsed

According to local reports, both the upper floor and the ground floor of the restaurant collapsed down onto the buildings basement.

Four people are confirmed to have died, with seven described as very seriously injured and nine more seriously injured.

The injured have been taken to various hospitals in the Palma area.

Raul Pursnami, owner of a fashion store next to the affected premises, was quoted by the Spanish newspaper El Pais as saying that a loud noise accompanied the collapse. I was leaving the premises and everything has fallen down, its a shame.

Theoretically, an inspection has to be done every year. We are terribly affected; I cant talk, they were my neighbours.

11:06 PM BST

Spanish PM: The government is ready to help

Spains prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, has responded to the roof collapse in Majorca and pledge to provide state resources to help.

I am closely following the consequences of the terrible collapse that occurred on the beach of Palma, Mr Sanchez said on X.

The prime minister added that he had spoken to local and regional authorities, adding the government is ready to help with all the means and troops that are necessary.

I want to send my condolences to the families of the deceased and my wish for a speedy recovery to the injured, he said.

10:49 PM BST

Area popular with German and British tourists

Palma Beach is a busy resort area of the Majorcan capital with a large number of bars and nightclubs, popular with German and British tourists.

Authorities have not provided any information regarding the identities of those who have died.

10:47 PM BST

People trapped under rubble

Survivors are thought to be trapped under the rubble following the collapse, with emergency crews carrying out rescue operations into the night.

People hug at the scene of the incident - MJS

It is thought that people remain trapped inside the building - MJS

10:38 PM BST

First floor of beach club gave way

Local reports suggest that the first floor of the Medusa Beach Club gave way and collapsed onto the ground floor, trapping customers having dinner or drinks at the venue.

Attempts to reach victims are continuing into the night and the local police have asked people to stand back and keep noise to a minimum so that rescue workers can hear sounds from survivors who remain under the rubble.

10:33 PM BST

Accident occurred at restaurant near beach, reports say

The accident occurred in the city of Palma on the Mediterranean island popular with tourists.

The two-storey building was a restaurant near the beach, Spanish news agency EFE and other media said.

10:32 PM BST

Pictured: People removed from building on stretchers

At least 27 people are thought to have been injured - Europa Press News

A person is carried from the building on a stretcher - Europa Press News

Emergency services working at the scene - JAIME REINA

10:29 PM BST

Welcome to our live coverage

Were bringing you the latest updates on a two-storey building collapse in Majorca.

Four people are so far confirmed dead and at least another 27 are reported to be injured.

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.
UCLA Chancellor Gene Block arrives at a Thursday hearing with members of Congress on Capitol Hill. (Michael A. McCoy / Getty Images)

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block found himself in the nation's culture wars hot seat Thursday, interrogated by members of Congress about his handling of complaints of campus antisemitism, amid student protests over the Israel-Hamas war.

For Republican Congress members, the hearing organized by the GOP-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce was a chance to present UCLA as exhibit A in how not to deal with protests.

Almost as soon as activists set up a Palestinian solidarity encampment April 25 in the heart of campus, Jewish students and faculty complained that demonstrators established checkpoints restricting access to many students, at times singling out students they identified as Zionists. But other Jewish students helped set up the camp, arguing it was not antisemitic, but anti-Zionist.

After a violent mob of pro-Israeli counterprotesters attacked the encampment on April 30, it was dismantled May 2, with law enforcement arresting more than 200 people.

But Thursdays interrogation was not a forum for a constructive discussion on how universities can navigate the balance between maintaining free speech and protecting students from discrimination.

Instead, Republicans  and some Democrats  took it as an opportunity to score political points.

Over the course of years, decades even, universities gradually nurtured a campus culture of radicalism, in which antisemitism grew and became tolerated by administrators, Virginia Foxx, the commitee chair, said in her opening remarks.

The Republican from North Carolina assailed Block for allowing UCLAs protests to spiral out of control.

For days, you stood by as Jews were assaulted and illegal checkpoints blocked access to campus in broad daylight," Foxx said. "Your actions were too little, too late.

Here are some key takeaways from the hearing.

Block said he was late in shutting down the encampment

In his opening testimony, Block conceded that UCLA made errors in judgment. The encampment, he said, "disrupted normal access to some classes" and "impeded our educational mission."

With the benefit of hindsight," he said, "we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk."

He was vague about what he would do differently

Block did not specify what UCLA should have done to prevent discrimination or violence as protests ramped up. And he did not explain why the university did not take action as students reported discrimination from protesters and outside agitators gathered on campus.

Why did you fail to immediately clear these checkpoints? Foxx asked.

Block said he instructed staff to make sure all students could freely pass without obstruction and then sent out a campuswide memo April 30, declaring that the encampment was "unlawful."

Striking a mild, noncombative approach throughout, Block did not say what campus discipline had been  or would be  meted out to students who violated UCLA rules.

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) criticized UCLA leaders for standing by for hours as a mob of agitators gathered near the encampment.

This happened in front of your eyes on your campus, and it was live streamed for the whole world to see, Omar said. How did you fail these students at many critical points where you could have intervened?

Block said he rejected the premise of the question.

How can you reject the premise? Omar said. Are these pictures lying? Are any of these people in jail?

Block said the Los Angeles Police Department was working to identify the attackers.

It's been over a month, Omar said, cutting him off.

UCLA protesters who blocked students passage have yet to be disciplined

Rep. Kevin Kiley, a California Republican, asked Block whether physically obstructing students from entering campus based on their race, ethnicity or religion is an expellable offense.

There is a disciplinary process, Block said. It could be.

Kiley played a viral video showing UCLA protesters blocking a student, Eli Tsives, from passing a checkpoint.

Were those students who formed blockade? Kiley said. Were they disciplined?"

Block said he didnt know, repeating that he sent out a memo April 30 instructing the campus community that blocking students' passage was intolerable.

Im going to take that as a no, Kiley said. Theres been no consequence whatsoever?

I did not say that, Block said. This is being investigated, and well see what happens with the disciplinary process.

Block said campus antisemitism is a problem

Block, who is Jewish and has family members who died in the Holocaust, said UCLA has a problem with antisemitism.

I am fully aware that many of our Jewish students have had to confront rhetoric and images on campus that any reasonable person would find repugnant, Block said in his opening statement. Trust me, I understand their pain."

Asked by Kathy E. Manning, a Democrat from North Carolina, about emails dating to 2014 that show alumni had alerted the chancellor of growing antisemitism, Block said the university had tried to respond with training.

About 90% of students, he said, had taken an online training course that includes discussion of antisemitism.

Manning asked whether students and staff need additional training.

I think we need to do more," Block said.

But the chancellor also rebutted the Republican narrative that UCLA was awash in antisemitism.

"I dont believe we are a hotbed of antisemitism," Block said. "I think weve had incidents of it that are disturbing were trying to address."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Friendly cashier keeps Kentucky man from missing out on big Powerball ticket win

An errand and a chance encounter with a friendly cashier at a Kentucky Lottery retailer recently led to a big payout for a man in Georgetown.

The man, who according to the Kentucky Lottery wishes to remain anonymous, won $50,000 after he bought a Powerball ticket at a vape shop on Finley Drive in Georgetown.

The man wasnt aware hed won until he visited the store again almost a month later and was approached by an employee there. The employee had sold him the winning ticket.

Youre the one who won the $50,000 on the Powerball! the employee told the man, according to a Friday Kentucky Lottery news release.

Caught off guard by the experience, the man immediately left the store and searched his car for the ticket. After he found it, the man went home to tell his family.

He was supposed to be going to the grocery store but then he came back home and said he wasnt going, the mans wife told the Kentucky Lottery.

A Kentucky man recently won $50,000 on this lottery ticket for the Powerballs April 13 drawing.

The winning numbers in the April 13 drawing were 7, 33, 40, 43, 69 and Powerball 10.

The Scott County man made the trip to Kentucky Lottery headquarters in downtown Louisville May 7 to collect his winnings. After taxes, he left with a check worth $36,000.

The man told the Kentucky Lottery he plans to use the money to pay some bills and tune up his motorcycle, which has been a passion project of his for years.

Its just been an ongoing project, he said. Ive needed a few things for a couple years.

The retailer, located at 98 Finley Drive in Georgetown, will also receive $500 for selling the winning ticket.

The Scott County man isnt the only recent $50,000 winner in Kentucky in Powerball. According to Kentucky Lottery, three tickets worth that amount were sold for the May 4 drawing.

Do you or someone you know have a gambling problem? Call the National Problem Gambling helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.

Do you have a question about the lottery in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
Former president Donald Trump is reportedly considering Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton to be the Republican nominee for vice president in this years general election, a move that could outrage some Democrats but would bring an experienced, low-drama personality onto the GOP ticket.

According to The New York Times, Mr Trump began discussing Mr Cotton as a vice presidential contender in recent weeks, adding to a mix of candidates that include three other Republicans from the upper chamber: Marco Rubio of Florida, Tim Scott of South Carolina and Ohios JD Vance.

Mr Trump has also discussed North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and former surgeon turned Housing and Urban Development secretary Ben Carson.

Though he has declined to state who he is actively considering, he has praised Mr Carson, Mr Rubio, Mr Vance, as well as one House member  New York Representative Elise Stefanik  as candidates who would do a really fantastic job in the position, which has very few codified responsibilities.

Each of those potential picks would likely cause little stir among Republicans loyal to Mr Trump, as the possible candidates have all spent the last few years expressing fealty to the twice-impeached, quadruply-indicted ex-president even as he has endured financial setbacks and multiple criminal cases against him.

All of them also spent at least one day attending Mr Trumps criminal trial in New York City, where they attacked the prosecutor, judge and witnesses in the case to aid Mr Trump in evading a gag order that has been placed on him during the proceedings.

But according to the Times, Mr Trump has praised Mr Cottons skills as a television guest, as well as his service in Iraq and Afghanistan as a US Army officer.

Mr Cotton also would provide Mr Trump with an opportunity to stoke liberal outrage, as he became an object of scorn among Democrats for a June 2020 op-ed published in the Times in which he argued that Mr Trump should deploy federal troops to put down civil rights protests in the wake of the murder of George Floyd by a group of Minneapolis, Minnesota, police officers.

If the Arkansas senator knows he is on Mr Trumps short-list, he isnt confirming it publicly. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, he said his conversations with the ex-president have been about what its going to take to win this election in November  to elect President Trump to another term in the White House and elect a Republican Congress, so we can begin to repair the damage that Joe Bidens presidency has inflicted on this country.

For his part, Mr Trump told a Milwaukee television station that he would be making a selection probably not too much before the convention, referring to the Republican National Convention set to start in Milwaukee on 15 July.
In May, before the Russian invaders took up positions near Kharkiv, Ukrainian defenders were experiencing slowdowns or even loss of Starlink satellite internet. The system was disrupted by electronic weapons deployed by the Russians.

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The New York Times writes about this. The publication notes that Russia has used advanced technologies to interfere with Starlink, which has led to interruptions in Internet communications on the northern front line.

Starlink satellite internet has been critical for the Ukrainian Armed Forces since the first days of the full-scale war with Russia. Without it, according to the Ukrainian military, they were unable to communicate and share information quickly and had to resort to sending text messages. With the advent of Starlink, everything has changed  the Ukrainian military uses it to communicate, gather intelligence, and conduct drone attacks, and with the help of the Armed Forces' advanced communications, they often managed to outwit the occupiers, the publication notes.

However, according to Ukrainian soldiers, officials, and electronic warfare experts, the situation of the first days of the great war was repeated on the northern front line in May this year, when the Starlink system was disrupted by Russian attacks on it.

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Ukraine's Minister of Digital Technologies, Mykhailo Fedorov, said that Russia's recent attacks on Starlink used new and more advanced technology. Previously, this service had been extremely well able to withstand interference at the front, where the occupiers widely used electronic warfare, radio interference, and other communication disruptions.

"The Russians are now testing various mechanisms to disrupt the quality of Starlink communication because it is so important to us," the head of the Ministry of Digital Transformation said. Fedorov added that Ukraine is constantly communicating with Elon Musk's SpaceX company to solve problems.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
The Palm Beach Town Council will weigh creating a steering committee to oversee the town's zoning code reform, after a discussion kicked off by Council Member Julie Araskog calling for the town to drop the consultant currently leading the reform process.

The Palm Beach Town Council will look at creating a steering committee to oversee the towns zoning code reform after Planning Director Wayne Bergman expressed his frustration over the lack of direction given to staff and Sean Suder of ZoneCo., the consultant leading the reform process.

"We've tried to keep Suder moving in the right direction, but there was no overall steering committee giving the code reform process direction, and I think that was a mistake, I think it is a mistake," Bergman told the council members at their May 15 Development Review meeting. The one thing we never had, and this has frustrated me to no end and I'm going to say it publicly ... and Im saying this respectfully, a steering committee."

He said it caused issues whenever Suder sought direction, as Suder had to balance recommendations from staff, council, and the Planning and Zoning Commission with the same level of priority.

The discussion began with a controversial proposition as Council Member Julie Araskog called for the council to drop ZoneCo. Araskog said she was driven to place the discussion on the agenda following the Planning and Zoning Commissions decision to pause their review of the new zoning code until the draft is finished in early fall.

That decision came after a number of meetings where commissioners criticized multiple draft proposals for low-density residential districts presented by Suder. This portion of the code had already undergone multiple reviews by town staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission.

I dont know how we proceed and have them write a code, when we actually havent liked anything that has come forward, Araskog said during the May 15 meeting. So, how do you send them off to write the whole code as a draft, when we havent agreed with any of the drafts coming forward.

Especially, she noted, when the town has paid ZoneCo. $514,601 for the work already completed.

Since the beginning of the process, she held reservations towards hiring an out-of-state consultant, she said, contending that as an Ohio-based consultant, ZoneCo. is not familiar with Palm Beach's unique character.

Our staff couldve done what had been done thus far, Araskog said. And our staff, in my opinion, probably would have done a better job, because they know this town.

Mayor Danielle Moore disagreed, noting that town staff were already overworked, and did not have the time to draft a new zoning code. Also, she said, they had proposed zoning code changes in the past that were rejected by the council.

James Murphy, assistant director of the Planning, Zoning and Building Department, defended the decision to hire ZoneCo. "As a member of the selection committee, ZoneCo. ... was head and shoulders above the other candidates, which included local firms," Murphy said.

Council Member Ted Cooney said that while some may be upset with the code reform's current status, upending the process could put the council at odds with the vast majority of the residents, who support reforming the town's decades-old zoning code.

Council Member Bridget Moran concurred, and said she is confident that the town staff and residents will come forward to help address any shortcomings when the completed draft is presented in early fall.

Planning and Zoning Commission lacks the expertise, says alternate commissioner

Town planner Jennifer Hofmeister-Drew said that some of the issues faced in the process likely stemmed from section-by-section approach the Planning and Zoning Commission took when reviewing the draft zoning code.

She compared it to the comprehensive plan, which was reviewed as a completed draft.

Additionally, Hofmeister-Drew said, ZoneCo. had already completed a significant amount of work, including drafts for the town's South End and tackling a plethora of codes not tied to any zoning district.

Council Member Lew Crampton asked Hofmeister-Drew to send the council and the Planning and Zoning Commission updates on what ZoneCo. has already completed. He asked for "some summaries, something that bring everyone up to date, not just council, but the Planning and Zoning (Commission)."

While staff acknowledged that the zoning code reform had been a bumpy process, Bergman said it was partially fueled by lack of direction given by town officials to the code reform process. Bergman did note that the Planning and Zoning Commission had taken up a de-facto leadership role during recent meetings.

However, Alternate Commissioner Dragana Connaughton, who made an appearance during the May 15 meeting, told the council that a steering committee filled with experts including architects, land-use attorney, and urban planners should be the body leading the process.

"We are not experts, we have the right intentions, but we are not experts," Connaughton said, adding, "I would like their opinions, and that is who should be directing."

All council members supported the creation of a steering committee and scheduled a discussion over the details for their June meeting.

"It'll need to have some sort of agility or ability ... to provide feedback to keep this process moving," Cooney said. "We need to be mindful not to add an additional layer of bureaucracy that thickens the muck."

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 council moves to create steering group for code reform
In what is arguably the biggest milestone in the mission to connect Los Angeles and San Francisco by bullet train, the California High-Speed Rail Authority is expected to submit final plans to obtain complete environmental approval between the two cities. On Friday, the Authority announced it would submit its final environmental impact report for the segment connecting Palmdale to Burbank, which is the last section yet to achieve environmental clearance.

The document is expected to be presented to the Authoritys board of directors in June and will include an analysis of all six build alternatives, as well as one no project option.

This map shows the proposed complete "Phase One" of the California High-Speed Rail which will connect the Bay Area to Los Angeles County and Anaheim.

This environmental document is the culmination of years of analysis and stakeholder engagement and is a huge milestone in connecting high-speed rail between two of our major metropolitan centers, said Brian Kelly, CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority. If our Board of Directors approves this document and the proposed project at their summer Board meeting, we will have environmentally cleared 463 of the 494-mile Phase 1 system between the Bay Area and Los Angeles/Anaheim.

Palmdale to Burbank is one of the most complex and challenging portions of the California High-Speed Rail project. It requires boring out some of the longest tunnels ever constructed through some of the most mountainous terrain along the entire system.

California High-Speed Rail has created 13K labor jobs, Authority says

The preferred route would include four tunnels covering about 28 miles, one 13 miles long and another 12 miles long.

The majority of the path would be underground, passing under the town of Acton, through large swaths of the Angeles National Forest and much of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, officials said, adding that the tunnels would limit the overall impact to local communities and nearby wetlands.

This figure shows the alternatives considered for the Burbank-to-Palmdale section of the California High-Speed Rail, including sites for proposed stations. (CAHSR)

A figure showing he California High-Speed Rail Authoritys Palmdale-to-Burbank corridor is featured in the latest environmental impact report for the project. (CAHSR)

The Palmdale station will be located adjacent to the existing transit center on Clocktower Plaza Drive and the Burbank station will be located underground at the Hollywood Burbank Airport  which will be undergoing massive renovations in the coming years, with plans to open a new terminal in 2026.

CAHSR officials say the travel time between the two stations will be about 20 minutes. Express trains that skip both stops will cover that ground even faster.

The L.A.-to-San Francisco service is the most high-profile and highly anticipated part of the system. It comprises the majority of whats known as Phase 1 of the massive statewide transit project.

When completed, electric trains capable of reaching up to 220 mph will whisk riders between Los Angeles Union Station and Salesforce Transit Center in downtown San Francisco. Currently, only bus service operates out of San Franciscos downtown transit hub, but a recent $3.4 billion federal grant will be used to help connect the station with the regional passenger rail service Caltrain  a project known as The Portal.

Whats the difference between Californias 2 high-speed rail projects?

While getting environmental clearance between the states two most significant economic and cultural hubs would be a landmark accomplishment, one portion of Phase 1 still needs to be cleared: the segment between Los Angeles and Anaheim.

That 33-mile segment will have to deal with existing infrastructure between the two Southern California cities, leaving little room for new construction. The current plans call for four tracks, two for freight and two for passenger rail, to be built between the two cities.

Los Angeles to Anaheim is expected to take about 45 minutes, well short of the projects high-speed promise  in large part because there are multiple interchanges where rail lines will meet with roads.

Rendering of a train car for the California High-Speed Rail project.

The Authority says it expects to get that segment approved, thus clearing all environmental hurdles within Phase 1, by next year.

When construction will actually begin in Los Angeles County remains uncertain as current work is being focused on the Initial Operating Segment, which will connect Merced to Bakersfield in the Central Valley.

Construction is currently underway along 119 miles of that segment, and the Authority is working to extend the current construction zone to 171 miles. That segment is expected to be up and running by the early 2030s.

Crews work on the Conejo Viaduct bridge in Fresno County on March 11, 2021. (CaHSR)

In the Bay Area, the vast majority of work needed to complete the section between San Francisco and San Jose is already completed, officials said. The Authority opted to work with Caltrain to electrify those tracks and share them in a blended system.

If and when Phase 1 is ever completed, the Authority has previously discussed extending the system to Sacramento in the north and San Diego in the south as part of the projects Phase 2.

But in April, Jim Patrick, director of communications for the Authoritys Southern California operations, told KTLA sister station FOX 5 in San Diego that planning of Phase 2 is largely on pause as the initial operating segment and Phase 1 are still massive undertakings that require the full attention of the state. Existing plans will also likely have to be restarted from scratch as they are more than 15 years old and are heavily outdated.

California High-Speed Rail one step closer to acquiring nations first 220 mph trains

Were trying to build this project the right way and it wouldnt be right to plug along as if no time has passed, Patrick said in an email to KTLA.

If Phase 2 ever becomes a reality, the California High-Speed Rail would have a service area of more than 800 miles.

The Board of Directors meeting to approve the final environmental impact report for Palmdale-to-Burbank will take place over two days beginning on June 26. It is expected to be approved.

The public can view the board meeting either in person or online. Copies of the environmental impact report can be found online or at local CAHSR offices.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
By Giuseppe Fonte and Christian Kraemer

STRESA, Italy (Reuters) -European finance ministers from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies called on Friday for the G7 to stay united in the face of China's "unfair" industrial policies and warned of the risks of a trade war after U.S. tariff hikes against Beijing.

On the first day of a meeting of G7 finance chiefs in the northern Italian town of Stresa, ministers from Germany, France and hosts Italy all called for a common front against China's growing export strength.

Washington last week unveiled a raft of increased duties on Chinese imports including electric vehicle batteries, computer chips and medical products, triggering concerns of retaliation and fragmentation in global commerce.

The United States is not calling on its partners to take similar measures, but Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Thursday she wanted the U.S' G7 allies - Japan, Germany, France, Britain, Italy and Canada - to show they stood with Washington.

French Finance Minister Le Maire said it was important to avoid a trade war with Beijing, which remains "our economic partner", but the G7 needed to protect its industrial interests in the face of China's "unfair trade practices."

Germany's export-driven economy would have much to lose from an escalation of trade tensions and its Finance Minister Christian Lindner told reporters that "trade wars are all about losing, you can't win them."

However, Italian Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, chairing the Stresa gathering as Rome holds the G7 presidency this year, said it may only be a matter of time before the European Union followed the U.S. lead on tariffs.

"The United States has taken very tough decisions and Europe will probably have to consider whether to do the same," he told Italian state television RAI on Friday.

With the risk that the U.S. tariffs lead to an increase in Chinese exports to Europe, Giorgetti said it was vital that the G7 remain united and European countries did not begin competing among themselves.

A U.S. push for a loan to Ukraine backed by future income from some $300 billion of frozen Russian assets is another central theme for the G7 meeting which ends on Saturday, but it has become clear that no hard details will emerge in Stresa.

The ministers will be joined on Saturday by Ukraine's Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko, whose war-torn country is struggling to contain a Russian offensive in the north and the east, more than two years after Moscow first invaded.

Yellen has said that a loan could amount to some $50 billion, but that no amounts have been agreed, and officials said the meeting would mull proposals to present to G7 heads of government at a summit in Puglia, southern Italy, on June 13-15.

Yellen's Undersecretary for International Affairs Jay Shambaugh told CNBC he did not expect ministers in Stresa to discuss technical aspects such as the structure of the loan, who would manage it or how it would be backstopped.

World Bank President Ajay Banga told Reuters on Friday he was "absolutely" open to the idea of managing a fund for Ukraine that would disburse a G7 loan based on the earnings from the frozen Russian assets, at least for non-military purposes.

The European Union on Tuesday finalised its own deal to help Ukraine by using the "unexpected and extraordinary" profits earned by European-based depositories holding Russian assets.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba thanked the EU for the decision but reiterated that Kyiv hoped for the full seizure of the Russian assets, not just the interest - something several European countries have ruled out for legal reasons.

German Finance Minister Christian Lindner told reporters on Friday the G7 was now discussing a "legally secure" loan proposal though "many legal and technical issues are still unresolved."

Italy had been hoping to use the summit to revive blocked talks on a global minimum tax on multinationals, but Giorgetti said the deal would not be finalised by June, as was previously planned.

He said the U.S, India and China all have reservations over the terms of the deal, which was signed by around 140 countries in 2021 but has never been fully implemented.

The G7 will also address a proposed global wealth tax on billionaires, promoted by Brazil and France among the broader Group of 20 developed countries.

However, Yellen said on Thursday the U.S. could not back it in the formulation currently proposed, and Lindner said the world had enough on its plate to reform corporate taxation.

"The German government therefore views new components of a global tax agenda with the greatest scepticism," he said.

($1 = 0.9227 euros)

(Additional reporting by David Lawder and Jan Strupczewski, writing by Gavin Jones, editing by Susan Fenton and)
GA grandmother on her way home after getting sick on cruise ship, being stuck in Dominican Republic

Its was all hands on deck to get a LaGrange grandmother back to the U.S. where doctors can try to save her life.

Channel 2s Courtney Francisco was in LaGrange Thursday, where Loretta Cox and her husband left Saturday and caught a cruise ship in Florida on Sunday. The mother of six, who also has nine grandchildren, decided to take some time off for a cruise to the Bahamas.

By Tuesday, her lungs had filled with fluid and she was so sick she had to be placed on a ventilator and was stuck in the Dominican Republic where she was being treated.

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After Franciscos story aired on Channel 2 Action News at 6 p.m., the family said they were able to raise $18,000 and were able to get Cox on a medical flight.

She is expected to land in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on early Friday morning.

Cox remains in a coma and on a ventilator.

The flight had to fly at a lower altitude to avoid pressure issues due to her being on a ventilator.

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Her family said they paid nearly $28,000 to transport her via ambulance to the hospital and then get her into a room in the Intensive Care Unit.

But her family said doctors there cannot treat Cox because they dont take her insurance and without it, staying in that hospital costs $4,000 a day.

Doctors in the Dominican Republic said that they could keep Cox stable, but that she needed to get a special medical flight back to the U.S. for treatment.

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GA man shoots himself in the foot trying to get rid of copperhead snake

There are likely better ways to get rid of a copperhead snake than shooting at it, especially when you shoot yourself in the process.

Deputies were called to Monroe County Hospital late Sunday night after Timothy Taylor came in with a gunshot wound, the Monroe County Reporter said.

Taylor told the deputies that he shot a copperhead snake which ended up under his house. He said that he loaded the gun and put it on the ground. As he was trying to back out from under the house after getting the dead snake, Taylor said he hit the gun with his foot, setting it off.

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Taylor ended up with a round in his foot. His girlfriend took him to the hospital, the newspaper reported.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources says if you see any kind of venomous snake, to just give it space.

To keep yourself safe and allow our native wildlife to thrive, give all snakes the space they require and the ability to escape on their own, said Daniel Sollenberger, state herpetologist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

IN OTHER NEWS:
The daughter and son-in-law of a US Republican politician are among three Christian missionaries who have been killed by gang members in Haiti as it emerged that the long-awaited deployment of an multinational security force tasked with rescuing the Caribbean country from months of bloodshed had been delayed.

Ben Baker, a Republican state representative from Missouri, announced the news of the couples murder on Facebook late on Thursday, writing: My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain.

Baker said his daughter Natalie Lloyd and her husband, Davy  both Christian missionaries in Haiti  were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed. They went to Heaven together.

Their group, Missions in Haiti Inc, said the couple and another member of the group named only as Jude had been ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys while leaving church and were shot and killed at about 9pm on Thursday. We all are devastated, the group posted on Facebook.

A spokesperson for the White House national security council said the Biden administration was aware of reports of the deaths of the US citizens, saying: Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief.

The killings came just hours after Joe Biden voiced optimism that Haitis security crisis  which began spiraling out of control in late February after a coordinated gang insurrection  could soon be solved with the arrival of a 2,500-strong Kenya-led multinational policing force.

Were not talking about a thousand-person army that is made up of trained [personnel], Biden said of the Haitian gangs who have plunged the country into mayhem and forced the countrys previous prime minister, Ariel Henry, from power. This is a crisis that is able to be dealt with.

The first Kenyan members of that force were supposed to land in Haitis capital, Port-au-Prince, this week to spearhead the operation, with their arrival timed to coincide with a state visit the Kenyan president, William Ruto, is making to the US.

Speaking alongside Biden on Thursday, Ruto also voiced confidence that the US-backed policing mission could break the back of the gangs and the criminals that have visited untold suffering on Haiti since the start of a coordinated criminal insurrection in late February. Armed criminals would be dealt with firmly, decisively [and] within the parameters of the law, Ruto vowed.

But the first contingent of Kenyan officers did not arrive as planned this week, with confusion surrounding the reasons for the postponement.

One source with knowledge of the mission told Reuters the Kenyan officers were given no explanation for the last-minute delay but ordered to remain on standby. A second source said conditions were not in place in Port-au-Prince to receive the officers.

Other sources in Kenyas interior ministry told the Geneva-based civil society group Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime that an advance team sent by Kenya had found Haiti ill-prepared for the deployment.

Some observers suspect the delay could be related to security concerns over giving the heavily armed gangs advance warning of the missions arrival  something which might allow criminals to launch surprise attacks on incoming planes.

Diego Da Rin, a Haiti specialist from the International Crisis Group, said that if and when it arrived, the multinational force would face a huge task trying to subdue an estimated 5,000 gang members who control more than 80% of the capital.

Related: The gangs are in charge: Haitis outgunned police fight a desperate rear defence

The gangs have never controlled so much territory in Haiti. They have expanded their armies and their arsenals and they have established strongholds in areas the police have not been able to access, sometimes for years, he said.

In recent days, armed groups have intensified their attacks, completely or partly demolishing at least four police stations in a striking show of strength seemingly designed to coincide with the anticipated arrival of Kenyan forces.

Thats a message and it is not a veiled message  The message is: Dont come here, because if you come  you will be treated as invaders and enemies, Da Rin said.
Gap in closest Idaho legislative primary race narrows to just two votes as recount looms

Open booths await voters for the primary election on May 21, 2024, at the College of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls

Open booths await voters for the primary election on May 21, 2024, at the College of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls. (Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)

With a recount on the way, only two votes separate the apparent winner and loser in a razor-thing Republican legislative primary election in eastern Idaho.

Initial, unofficial election results posted by the Idaho Secretary of States Office late Tuesday and early Wednesday originally indicated that Republican challenger Ben G. Fuhriman of Shelley had defeated incumbent Rep. Julianne Young, R-Blackfoot, by 10 votes.

However, the Idaho Secretary of States Office issued a news release late Thursday explaining that when the counties conducted a review and canvass of election results and records, they discovered a disparity of eight votes that narrowed the apparent 10-vote difference down to two votes.

Elections officials in Butte County counted the votes correctly by hand after the election, but the error occurred when those results were added to the states election reporting system, state elections officials said.

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An analysis confirmed that the county tally and canvass report in Butte County was correct, Thursdays news release from the Idaho Secretary of States Office said. Butte County uses a hand count tabulation, and the discrepancy was due to a data entry error during the manual entry of the results into the state election results reporting system. The unofficial results on VoteIdaho.gov have been updated to reflect the correct tabulation. The Idaho Secretary of States office contacted both candidates to inform them of the change in results.

The updated election results show the outcome of the Republican primary election for Idaho House, District 30, Seat B was unchanged, but the vote count is different.

Fuhriman: 3,763 votes

Young: 3,761 votes

In an emailed message to her supporters sent Wednesday afternoon, Young had already indicated she would request and pay for a recount. Now, the state is picking up the tab.

I am requesting a paid recount because of the small difference in the election results for my race, but respect the decision made by the voters of our district and, assuming that the results remain consistent, I wish my opponent the very best in his public service, Young wrote Wednesday.

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With the gap shrinking to two votes, Young wont have to pay for the recount now. Under state law, a losing candidate may request a free recount if the difference between the votes is less than or equal to 0.1% or five votes, whichever is greater.

Idaho elections officials emphasized that election results dont become official until after they are reviewed by the counties and certified by the State Board of Canvassers. This years primary election canvass is scheduled for June 5 in Idaho Falls.

State law specifies that after the canvass is complete, a candidate has 20 days to request a recount from Idahos attorney general.

The District 30 race between Fuhriman and Young was by far the closest election result from Tuesdays primary election, and no other results fell within the 0.1% or five-vote margin to qualify for a free recount.

In other elections news, on Friday afternoon Ada County elections officials announced that when they reviewed elections results they discovered 33 ballots that were properly scanned on election night but were not uploaded to the results page due to human error. The error did not change the outcome of any of the races affected. After discovering the error, Ada County elections officials updated their results page to reflect the correct totals, Ada County Clerk Trent Tripple said in a written statement.

Our emphasis on multiple layers of checks and balances worked to ensure the voices of Ada County voters are accurately reflected in our results, Tripple said.

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SACRAMENTO, California  Gov. Gavin Newsom has a new set of adversaries in his hard-charging campaign against Big Oil.

Nineteen Republican attorneys general asked the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday to block lawsuits from California and four other states attempting to make major oil companies pay for climate change damages.

These Republican-led states are acting as wholly-owned subsidiaries of Big Oil, filing directly in the Supreme Court to do the industry's bidding of pursuing more profits and pollution, the California Democrat said in an exclusive statement to POLITICO. California will continue fighting for everybody whos been hurt and ripped off by Big Oil.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta sued Chevron and four other major oil companies in September, accusing them of suppressing and spreading disinformation for decades about the link between fossil fuels and catastrophic climate change.

Thursdays filing, led by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, accuses California, New Jersey, Minnesota, Connecticut and Rhode Island of trying to hold energy companies accountable for emissions beyond their own borders in violation of the Commerce Clause and other federal provisions.

These states are welcome to enforce their preferred policies within their jurisdiction, but they do not have authority to dictate our national energy policy, Marshall said in a statement. If the Supreme Court lets them continue, California and its allies will imperil access to affordable energy for every American.

The Supreme Court has shot down similar challenges, including with a decision a year ago that allowed lawsuits from local governments to proceed in state court, rather than be moved to federal courts as oil companies wanted.

Red states have also challenged  so far unsuccessfully  Californias long-standing authority to set its own vehicle emissions standards. They have sued the U.S. EPA over rules to regulate emissions from power plants, vehicles and oil and gas production facilities.

New Jersey and Connecticut attorneys general defended their climate damages lawsuits, dismissing the Republican challenge as partisan politics.

Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential contender and top surrogate for President Joe Bidens reelection, has picked fights with Republican governors over hot-button issues such as abortion and guns.

Now hes gone on the offensive over green energy. Hes made attacking Big Oil a central plank of a climate platform that he showcased in trips to China, the Vatican and New York (where he announced the climate damages suit last fall).

Last week he unloaded on Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo after the Republican governor wrote Newsom with concerns that his push to cap oil refiners profits could backfire, raising prices in both California and Nevada, which gets 88 percent of its gas from the Golden State.

Newsom has pushed for a profit cap since the states gas, which is usually the most expensive in the nation, reached a new record-high average of $6.44 a gallon two years ago while oil companies reported record profits. He accused companies of gouging consumers and pushed legislation that gives the California Energy Commission authority to impose a cap, which it could do by the end of this year.

Hes also pushed for one of the nations largest buffer zones between oil wells and homes, initiated a fracking ban and gone after oil producers tax breaks.

Congressional Democrats may be following his lead. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) published a report in April titled Big Oils Evolving Efforts to Avoid Accountability for Climate Change.

Whitehouse, along with Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) launched an investigation this week into an oil industry dinner with former President Donald Trump where he asked them for $1 billion in campaign donations.

Open corruption, Newsom called it at the Vatican earlier this month. A billion dollars to pollute our states, to pollute our country and to pollute this planet to roll back progress. This is the moment were living in and it calls for clarity and it calls for understanding what we're up against.

Chris Cadelago contributed to this report.
Russia is using Storm-Z units for assaults in the direction of Lyptsi in the northern part of Kharkiv region. They are trying to perform rotations, but Ukrainian soldiers are doing everything possible to prevent the enemy from increasing the number and pace of attacks.

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Currently, about 30 thousand occupants are in this area. Denys Karataiev, commander of the artillery battery of the Spartan Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine, spoke about this on Kyiv24 TV channel.

He described the current situation in the Lyptsi area.

"The enemy must always be assessed objectively and not underestimated. Right now, Storm-Z units are trying to conduct assault operations there. The enemy, of course, is trying to perform rotations. But we see it all and make sure that they cannot man up their units and assault at a faster pace and in larger numbers," Karataiev said.

He also indicated the approximate concentration of Russian troops in the area.

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"Looking at the forces with which the enemy is trying to conduct assault operations, I think it is about 30 thousand, according to intelligence reports," Karataiev emphasized.

Earlier, the Institute for War Studies noted that AFU is making progress in the Kharkiv region. However, the occupiers also continue to attack.

In addition, the General Staff reported in its evening operational update that as of the evening of May 23, fighting continued in the areas of Starytsia and Tykhyi in the Kharkiv region. The Russians also continued shelling Vovchansk, razing the city to the ground.

Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
Ukrainian forces halted Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector and are conducting counterattacks, Ihor Prokhorenko, a representative of the Main Operational Directorate of Ukraine's General Staff, said at a briefing in Kyiv on May 24.

"At the moment, (Russian forces) have been halted, the situation is under control, we are carrying out counterattacks," Prokhorenko said.

Russia launched a new offensive on May 10 in northern Kharkiv Oblast. Moscow's forces had managed to advance as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) into the region but had been halted by the first line of defense, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 16.

Prokhorenko described the situation on the battlefield as "difficult," saying Ukrainian soldiers continue to hold the line in the country's east and south. Kharkiv and Donetsk oblasts are the areas of the most intense fighting, he said.

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"Regarding the Kharkiv sector, the enemy is conducting offensive operations to create a buffer zone," the colonel said, adding that "the situation is under control."

Russian troops are advancing in the east of Kharkiv Oblast, planning to bypass the town of Kupiansk, but have not yet succeeded, Prokhorenko said.

"Fierce fighting is ongoing almost along the entire front line. Defense forces are inflicting heavy losses on the invader, our artillery, unmanned systems and aviation are actively working," he added.

Russian troops are "completely bogged down" in street battles for the town of Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast and deploying their reserves from different sectors, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said on May 23.

Russia's offensive in Kharkiv Oblast in mid-May could be the first of several waves, and Russian forces may target the regional capital, Kharkiv, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Read also: Russias latest offensive into Kharkiv Oblast is stretching Ukrainian defenses

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Museum boss turned podcaster George Osborne was at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this week where his strikingly dark hair prompted speculation that he was dying his luscious locks to stave off looking older. No! I promise. Id welcome a bit of grey, he tells me. He can have some of mine if he likes.

Harriss family tree

Chocolat author Joanne Harris was reunited with a long-lost relative among the forget-me-nots and peonies at the Chelsea Flower Show. The chance meeting happened when Harris received an email from plant-buyer Jill Kerr inviting her to the show to launch a new National Trust rose.

Joanne seemed the ideal celebrity to do the honours of presenting it, says Kerr. The pair worked out they were cousins. Harris says: Our grandmothers were sisters  I think we have the same nose! But we are a big family living at opposite ends of Yorkshire and had never actually met.

Power trip

Northern Ireland secretary Chris Heaton-Harris is looking forward to some heavy lifting when he quits politics with the dissolution of Parliament next week. I do enjoy my powerlifting, he told me on GB News Choppers Political Podcast. Im in the age group Masters 2, which I think makes me sound like an Avenger. You have to wear a singlet, which is not a sight you want to see on a man in his 50s.

Heaton-Harris says he can lift 200kg  well over twice his bodyweight. You are like an ant, I told him. All I need is a Dec and I can have a TV programme, he replied. If you say so, Chris.

Field sports

Conservative politicians outnumbered Labour MPs at the funeral of Frank Field at Holy Trinity, Sloane Square.

The rumour is that former Labour MP Field vetted the guest list which included Tory MPs Sir Edward Leigh, Sir Peter Bottomley and Theresa May, as well as Labour MPs Wes Streeting and Sir Stephen Timms. Fields aide Matthew Owen told how Field composed letters using probably the last surviving Dictaphone. Field was also such a giggly soul that by the time he got to the end of a funny story, the punchline was completely lost.

Losing horse

Not everyone was fixated on Downing Street on Wednesday when Rishi Sunak announced the July 4 general election.

In the House of Lords, Tory peer Viscount Astor remarked: We have all been somewhat distracted by our mobile telephones concerning the next general election. I have been even more distracted by just having received the result of the 5.30pm race at Kempton, where my horse came last. I hope that is not an omen for the future.

As a hereditary peer, Astor has reason to fear a Labour government  he could find himself kicked out of the Lords by the reforming Starmerites.

Hello, Louise!

Louise Minchin has lifted the lid on what she said were bruising and long-winded fights for better treatment at the BBC. After fighting to be paid the same as male colleagues, Waitrose magazine tells how the BBC Breakfast TV presenters next battle was to be allowed to say hello at the top of the show  rather than her male co-host getting the first word in every day. I was able to dig in and carry on with that fight, which took some years, she says. When there was a setback, I just thought, Im going to carry on with this, because it matters.

Let no one say the BBC sounds petty.

Dog days at Downton

The family dogs at Highclere Castle are barking with joy that work has started on another Downton Abbey film. Fiona, the 8th Countess of Carnarvon, who runs Highclere with her husband Geordie, says: The old labradors have remembered the form with delight: catering trucks which make lots of delicious snacks. But there is even more: trestle tables with biscuits and sandwiches around teatime. Alfie is quite often missing and usually deaf to all calls, found by catching sight of the end of his tail under a table. You cant teach an old Downton dog new tricks.

Sign language

Lots of ideas from readers for a replacement for the Tory partys oak tree symbol after Robert Halfon MP suggested a ladder last week. Clifford Brown offered a Snakes and Ladders logo. Dick Howard suggested a stile because they are almost unique to the British Isles, you can overcome any obstacle and continue merrily on your way. And David Miller suggested an ostrich with its head buried in the sand. And that was before the PM called the general election for July 4.

Peterborough, published every Friday at 7pm, is edited by Christopher Hope. You can reach him at peterborough@telegraph.co.uk

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Sen. Sally Harrell wears a superman cape, which she said was a gift from an advocate, during an event for Georgians with disabilities at the Capitol. Jill Nolin/Georgia Recorder (2023 file photo)

Unlike in the House, no incumbent Georgia state senators will be involuntarily leaving after Tuesdays primary election.

Voters reelected two Atlanta Democratic incumbents facing credible challenges, and some Republican senators fought off challengers from their right.

The Senate races lacked the surprise outcomes of two races in the House, where Locust Grove Republican Rep. Lauren Daniel and Smyrna Democratic Rep. Teri Anulewicz lost their reelection bids. Another sitting state lawmaker, Atlanta Democratic Rep. Becky Evans, also lost in the only race featuring two incumbents.

Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick easily fought off a challenger in the Republican primary. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder (2024 file photo)

Harrell defeats Lubin

Atlanta Democratic Sen. Sally Harrell scored a solid win over challenger David Lubin, a general contractor from DeKalb County, in a race that reflected the debate over the definition of antisemitism. Harrell will go on to face Republican challenger Amelia Siamomua, a consultant from Doraville, after earning just over 70% of the vote against Lubin, according to unofficial results.

Lubins daughter, 21-year-old Rose, was killed in November while serving in the Israel Defense Force in Jerusalem. Harrell sponsored a Senate resolution honoring the young IDF sergeant, but a bill she did not support inspired Lubin to challenge her.

House Bill 30, now signed into law, defines antisemitism in state code. Lawmakers had been trying to pass such a bill for years, but it failed to move over concerns about free speech, specifically that the bill would tar people criticizing Israels government as antisemites. It was fast-tracked this year in the wake of the Oct. 7 attacks that left over a thousand Israelis dead.

Harrell condemned the Oct. 7 attacks as well as antisemitic acts in Georgia, including hateful flyers left at homes in her district. But she said she was also moved by increasing Islamophobia and images of the civilian suffering Israeli bombs have caused in Gaza.

She didnt vote on the bill, which passed the Senate 44-6 before also overwhelmingly passing the House.

Lubin named that abstention as a factor in his decision to run, but he was not able to overcome Harrell at the polls.

Harrell told the Recorder she tried to stay away from mud-slinging.

I believe that staying positive helped our success, she said. We focused on my accomplishments, such as lowering the cost of college tuition, and improving services for people with disabilities. Voters clearly rejected truth-distorting negative messaging.

Lubin told the Atlanta Jewish Times after the election that he will continue to oppose antisemitism.

Sens. Sally Harrell and Michael Doc Rhett, who are both Democrats, look at redistricting maps in December 2023. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

It was inspiring to see Jews and people of other faiths, across both the religious and political spectrum, come together to support our 40th District community and my advocacy against antisemitism, he said. We must continue to stand against leaders who are not supportive of the Jewish community in America, Israel, and across the world. We have a duty to ourselves, our children, and our grandchildren to protect them. To achieve this, we must put aside our differences and unite for our safety and our survival.

Harrell said she appreciated the chance the campaign gave her to talk with voters and looks forward to getting to work on some of the issues they raised, including protecting children from online harm and providing training to police officers on interacting with young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

I enjoyed getting away from the Capitol and focusing on the election so I could get a pulse on what the people want me to do, she said. Theres another election in November, so Im looking forward to even more listening.

Harrell is likely to have the advantage in that election. Nearly two thirds of 2020 voters in her district supported President Joe Biden.

Parent fends off Thomas

Another Atlanta Democrat, Sen. Elena Parent, also convincingly fought off a potentially serious challenger, defeating former Sen. Nadine Thomas with nearly 74% of the vote.

During last years redistricting session, GOP lawmakers redrew Parents district to be majority Black. Thomas, who served in the 1990s and 2000s as the first African American woman elected to the Georgia Senate, threw her hat in the ring to replace Parent, who is white.

On her Twitter, Thomas referred to her as a limousine liberal who knows she cant win in this new district without insulting Black voters with her TRICKS & LIES.

Thomas was referring to emails and robocalls that said she had the backing of Vernon Jones, a controversial figure who served as DeKalb CEO and in the state House as a Democrat before switching parties and becoming a major ally of Republican former president Donald Trump.

Thomas denied having Jones endorsement and fired back with an email to supporters and a Twitter post accusing Parent of employing MAGA tactics to Suppress Black Voters Rights, which included an image of Parent pasted in front of a scene out of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

No Republican qualified to run in the district, which sets Parent up for another term. She was first elected in 2014.

Echols keeps it in the family

Hall County Republican Drew Echols will keep the family name in the Senate. He is set to take over for his wife, Sen. Shelly Echols, who is not seeking re-election.

Echols defeated Josh Clark, a former state representative and businessman, with 52.75% of the vote in a race that included accusations of fraud and home invasion.

Sen. Shelly Echols. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

It started when Echols was seen on camera entering a Flowery Branch home owned by Clark that he rents out on Airbnb. Clark called the incident Watergate 2.0.

I am disappointed that my opponent would stoop to this kind of low, Clark said in a statement. We are currently investigating this matter and will report it to the proper authorities once we have more information.

Airbnbs policy states that renters should authorize invitees with hosts.

Echols told WDUN a friend rented the home and invited him in. He said he briefly entered to check if there was food in the refrigerator or pantry in order to confirm his suspicions that Clark does not live at the address. Echols accused Clark of illegally receiving two homestead exemptions including one at the Flowery Branch home.

Speaking to the Recorder on Thursday, Echols had only kind words for his former adversary, but he said his ties to the community helped him pull off a win.

If you write your name down on a piece of paper to qualify to run as a Republican here in Hall County, youve got to be a conservative fighter, he said. To my oppositions credit, hes a conservative fighter. Theres no question about that. But here in Hall County, these folks were looking for somebody that was grounded here and has been here all their life and knows the issues that are important to this community and the state, and when I say that, Im not necessarily talking about the red meat issues. Im talking about all the issues.

Echols said the first issue he wants to tackle once hes sworn in is helping small business owners.

I know what its like to be the last person to get paid, and I want to take some common sense small business practices to Atlanta, he said. I want to look at legislation from the lens of a small business owner. Does this help the small business community? Is this good for small business owners in the state of Georgia? Thats just going to be my priority. I very much appreciate our large corporate economy, but also I know the backbone of this state, and my intention is thats how Im going to vote.

Replacing high-ranking Democrats

Sen. Shelly Echols is the only Republican incumbent not running again, but Democratic senators are losing three long-serving lawmakers to retirement. All three of those Atlanta-area races are set to go to a June 18 runoff.

Senate Minority Leader Gloria Butler is heading back home to her Stone Mountain district after 26 years in the Legislature, with her replacement as leader likely to be selected after the November election and before lawmakers return to Atlanta for the 2025 session.

But five Democrats signed up to take over representing her district, and DeKalb County attorney Randal Mangham and Gwinnett County registered nurse Iris Knight-Hamilton are set for a rematch after no candidate scored above 50%. Mangham got 5,307 votes, or 31.22%, Knight-Hamilton got 3,835 votes, or 22.56%.

The winner is set to face Republican Mary Williams Benefield, the sole Republican candidate.

Sen. Valencia Seays south metro district could pass to another member of the Valencia caucus.

State Rep. Valencia Stovall was the favorite in a seven-person race with 6,187 votes worth 46.4%, not good enough for an outright win. A former state representative, Stovall left office to run for the U.S. Senate in 2020 as an independent.

Instead, Stovall will face Kenya Wicks, a retired U.S. Army Major who boasts the endorsement of Georgias first elected Valencia senator, Sen. Valencia Seay. Wicks finished in second place with 2,025 votes or about 15.2%.

The winner will face Republican Andrew Honeycutt, a university administrator from Fayette County.

Theres a closer race in Sen. Horacena Tates district, which stretches from Sandy Springs in north Fulton down to Chattahoochee Hills in the south of the county.

Nonprofit executive RaShaun Kemp has the lead with 4,370 votes, or just over 24% in the six-way race, but real estate broker Ralph Long III is not far behind with 4,109 votes, just below 23%.

All three districts favor a Democrat  each one gave Biden more than 75% of their ballots in 2020  but the winner of Tates district will have even better odds. No Republican qualified to run in that race.

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TBILISI (Reuters) -Georgia's ruling party accused the United States on Friday of pursuing a policy of "threats and blackmail" after Washington announced new visa restrictions over a draft law on "foreign agents".

The bill, which would require organisations receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as "foreign agents", has sparked a political crisis in the South Caucasus country and threatens its historically strong ties with Washington, a major aid donor.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday Washington was launching a review of cooperation with Georgia and imposing visa restrictions on individuals "responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia", as well as their family members.

Blinken said the draft law, which has triggered large street protests in Georgia for over a month, would "stifle the exercise of freedoms of association and expression" and impede independent media organizations' work.

The ruling Georgian Dream party said on Facebook that the visa restrictions were "nothing but a gross attempt to restrict Georgia's independence and sovereignty."

"No blackmail whatsoever can force us to go against our country," it said.

The head of the governing bloc's parliamentary faction called said the U.S. move was "comical" and that it threatened to restrict Georgia's independence.

"The country's independence is not for sale for any visas", Mamuka Mdinaradze wrote on Facebook.

Germany and France this week expressed deep concern over the path taken by Georgia, and the European Union has urged Tbilisi to withdraw the bill, saying the measure would set back the nation's ambitions to join the bloc.

BIG PROTESTS

The bill cleared Georgia's parliament last week. It was vetoed by the president but Georgian Dream said on Friday it would begin the procedure to override the veto next week.

Opposition to the draft law has triggered some of the biggest protests in Georgia since it gained independence from the Soviet Union more than 30 years ago.

Critics in the country of 3.7 million call it "the Russian law", likening it to legislation used by Moscow to crack down on dissent. Brussels and Washington portray it as authoritarian and Russian-inspired.

A group of Georgian opposition parties issued a statement applauding the U.S. move, saying it would "protect the constitution, sovereignty and freedom of Georgia, and the European and Euro-Atlantic future of our country".

Russia denies any direct association with the draft law, but accused the U.S. on Thursday of blackmail after Washington sent signals it may cut aid to Tbilisi and introduce sanctions.

Georgia has benefited from some $6 billion in U.S. aid packages since the early 1990s. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State James O'Brien said this month that Washington would review a $390-million aid package to Georgia because of the draft law.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Lucy Papachristou; Editing by Andrew Osborn, Toby Chopra and Timothy Heritage)
Germany's Defence Ministry on Friday confirmed holdups in the delivery of equipment sets to soldiers, raising doubts about the preparedness of the country's military missions overseas.

There were "regrettable" delays in "individual cases for some items," a ministry spokesman said in Berlin following a report in Bild newspaper, citing an official letter to the parliamentary Budget Committee.

However, contractors were expected to fulfil their obligations to the Bundeswehr armed forces by the end of the agreed delivery period in late 2025, he added.

Among the shortfalls, Bild reported that only 58,850 sets of combat clothing had been delivered in 2023, compared with 72,200 sets agreed.

An order for 82,596 combat helmets was short of almost 20,000 units, and other orders for rucksacks and protective waistcoats and underwear also fell far short of completion.

There were also delays with image intensifier goggles because a delivery originally intended for the Bundeswehr had gone to the Israeli army. As a result, only 8,550 of the expected 10,850 sets had arrived.

Reasons given by the ministry for the delays included the bankruptcy of one contracted company and some still unrectified production losses during the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the condition of the armed forces had improved significantly in the past few years with an injection of 2.4 billion ($2.6 billion) for equipment, according to the spokesman.

Asked whether the delays could affect planned or ongoing German deployments abroad, the spokesman said the aim is for every soldier to be able to train at their home base with all equipment they are supposed to have on deployment.

This may not be possible in individual cases due to the delays, he conceded, but it should still be possible to fulfil the actual deployment requirements.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, right, shakes hands with Prime Minister of Portugal Luis Montenegro during a joint press conference following talks at the Federal Chancellery, in Berlin, Friday May 24, 2024. (Christoph Soeder/dpa via AP)

BERLIN (AP)  German Chancellor Olaf Scholz waded into the European election campaign on Friday by warning that the next president of the European Commission should not seek support from far-right parties hoping to make big gains in next months vote.

Left-leaning parties across Europe have been heaping pressure on their mainstream conservative and liberal counterparts to rule out cooperation with far-right parties after the June 6-9 elections to the European Parliament.

But a big swing to the right could make it hard for the next president of the commission  who will need approval from a majority in the new pan-European parliament  to lead the 27-bloc effectively with only the support of its more traditional political groupings.

When the next European Commission is formed, it must not rest on the support of a parliamentary majority that also needs the support of right-wing extremists, Scholz said after talks with his Portuguese counterpart Luis Montenegro in Berlin.

I am very saddened by the ambiguity of some of the political statements that we have heard recently. But I am clear about this, and it will only be possible to establish a presidency of the European Commission that rests on the support of the traditional parties, Scholz said.

Anything else would be a mistake for the future of Europe, he added.

Scholz, a Social Democrat who heads an unpopular progressive coalition in Germany, did not specify which statements he was referring to.

However, his words are likely to be seen as a warning to the current Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, a German conservative who is expected to seek a second term.

Von der Leyen is a member of the European Peoples Party group in the European Parliament. The center-right umbrella grouping has long held sway in Brussels in tandem with the center-left Socialists. But with the electoral landscape shifting, she has refused to rule out working with some members of parties further to the right.

Last month, von der Leyen suggested she was open to working with the European Conservatives and Reformists group, or ECR, one of two far-right groupings in the parliament.

Leading members of the ECR, which largely opposes further European Union integration and enlargement and takes a tough line against immigration and environmental protection policies, include Polands Law and Justice party and the Brothers of Italy party of Italian Premier Georgia Meloni.

Pressed to distance herself from the far-right during a debate among leading candidates last month in the Netherlands, von der Leyen said possible scenarios would depend on how the composition of the parliament is, and who is in what group.

With the elections less that two weeks away, political alliances that could shape the future direction of EU policy are already shifting.

On Thursday, a right-wing group in the European Parliament kicked out the far-right Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, over a string of scandals involving its leading candidate, including remarks seen as playing down Nazi crimes in World War II and the arrest of one of his assistants on suspicion of spying for China.

On Friday, one of its nine European lawmakers, Sylvia Limmer, quit the AfD, saying its leadership had become too authoritarian.

Scholz, whose party trails both the AfD and center-right rivals in opinion polls, said the rise of the far-right reflected uncertainty caused by rapid economic change, new technologies and climate change.

He argued that developed countries could counter the political trend by embracing a modernizing, inclusive agenda.

"What helps are two things: the first is confidence that the future will turn out well, also for our countries, that we are at the forefront; and confidence that this is not just for a few in our countries, but for the great mass of the population," he said.
Kyiv received another Iris-T air defense system from Berlin on May 24, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed it on X.

"We have once again delivered Iris-T SLM and Iris-T SLS combined fire unit to Ukraine  a highly modern and well-proven medium and short-range air defense system, directly from German industry production," Pistorius said.

Ukraine has asked international partners to deliver more air defense in the wake of a shortage and an increase in Russian strikes targeting energy infrastructure since March.

Berlin previously provided IRIS-T air defense systems to Ukraine, including three IRIS-T SLM systems, with a range of up to 40 kilometers, and one IRIS-T SLS, with a range of up to 12 kilometers.

According to Der Spiegel, Germany pledged to send Ukraine nine Iris-T SLM and eleven Iris-T SLS systems produced by German Diehl Defense.

"Together with the recently delivered Patriot system, we are strengthening the Ukrainian air defense in its fight against Russia's brutal war, which violates international law," the minister added.

Pistorius said in mid-May that Berlin would supply Ukraine with an additional Patriot air defense system without specifying a delivery date.

Since then, there have been no official announcements on further Patriot system provisions.

Initially a hesitant partner, Berlin has become Ukraine's second-largest military donor after the U.S. However, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is still reluctant to supply some key capabilities, namely Taurus long-range missiles.

According to Zelensky, Ukraine needs 25 Patriots to protect the country from Russian attacks. Air defense systems like the Patriot and the IRIS-T are highly effective at intercepting Russia's ballistic and cruise missiles.

Read also: Kuleba calls for additional Patriots in wake of heinous attack on Kharkiv

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Germany's health minister, Karl Lauterbach, plans to introduce stricter rules to curb the sale of nitrous oxide, sometimes known as laughing gas, especially to young people.

The drug, which is used in medicine as an anaesthetic and for pain reduction, has become a particularly popular party drug among young people in Germany. The sale and consumption of nitrous oxide is not restricted under current law.

"We will come up with a regulation quickly," Lauterbach told public broadcaster ARD on Friday.

Among the possibilities is including nitrous oxide in the list of psychoactive substances, which come with very strict rules for sale and possession.

He said that a complete ban would not be possible because nitrous oxide is used for industrial purposes as well.

"We are now tackling this very quickly," assured the minister.

Until the government takes action, Lauterbach recommended that parents educate their children: "It may sound fun and harmless, but it's not," the minister warned.

Regular consumption could lead to accidents or even neurological damage, and permanent damage cannot be ruled out either, he said.

"It's very dangerous for children and young people," said Lauterbach.

Cologne-based physician Volker Limmroth told ARD that tough restrictions are needed to control the availability of nitrous oxide.

So far, it has been legal, cheap and available, he said.

"They now even have it at the kiosk next to every school. And that has to stop. The availability must be interrupted," he said. "An anaesthetic does not belong on general sale, it belongs in the hands of doctors - and not between the gummy bears."

The German Society of Neurology has recently also warned of the dangers of nitrous oxide and that recreational consumption of the drug is increasing, particularly among teenagers and young adults.
The word police can be seen on a police vehicle. Marijan Murat/dpa

German authorities have detained an 18-year-old man after he allegedly discussed carrying out a knife attack on a synagogue in the south-western German city of Heidelberg.

The suspect, who comes from the town of Weinheim, is being held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder, public prosecutors and criminal investigators in the south-western German state of Baden-Wurttemberg announced on Friday.

He allegedly plotted the potential attack with another 24-year-old suspect, who was shot and captured by police earlier this month after a raid on the man's flat turned violent.

"The killing of one or more visitors during the attack on the synagogue with a subsequent martyr's death was discussed as the intended goal, in which both people wanted to be shot by emergency services," the authorities said.

The 18-year-old suspect is a German-Turkish dual national, and the 24-year-old suspect is a German citizen, authorities said.

On May 3, police raided the home of the 24-year-old suspect in the town of Bad Friedrichshall on suspicion of his preparing a serious act of violence endangering the state.

According to police, the 24-year-old suddenly took several kitchen knives and fled outside through a window while officers were in his flat.

He was caught by officers but, instead of surrendering, he threw a knife toward a policeman and charged. The officer shot the man.

The 24-year-old man was treated for his injuries and remains in police custody on allegations of attempted manslaughter and a particularly serious case of assault on police officers.

An analysis of evidence seized during the search revealed a link to the 18-year-old man from Weinheim, with whom the 24-year-old is said to have discussed a possible knife attack on visitors to a synagogue in Heidelberg in April this year, according to investigators.

The 18-year-old's apartment was searched on May 18. He was arrested and remains in custody.

Prosecutors said there are indications that the 24-year-old suspect may have travelled abroad to prepare a terrorist attack, citing "facts in connection with a possible departure of the accused from Germany."

Authorities declined to disclose further details, however, and did not say whether the alleged attack plot was the same knife attack discussed with the other suspect.

Authorities said that there were no indications of an imminent threat to visitors to the synagogue and that authorities acted early enough to avoid any real risk.

"An attack on Jewish life in Germany is always an attack on our values and therefore an attack on all of us," said Baden-Wurttemberg's state interior minister, Thomas Strobl.

He applauded police and intelligence agencies for successfully intervening.

The Jewish community in Heidelberg reacted with shock to the news of the arrests.

Rabbi Jona Pawelczyk-Kissin and board member Halyna Dohayma said on Friday that they are worried about their community members and were trying to address concerns.

They feared that Jews in Heidelberg "would now lock themselves away and stop coming to our services."

A demonstration to form a human chain in front of the synagogue has been called for 7 pm (1700 GMT) on Friday evening.

The synagogue in Heidelberg was inaugurated in 1994. According to the Jewish Community of Heidelberg, the congregation consists of 420 members.

The Central Council of Jews in Germany also welcomed the police operation.

A spokesman for the council said that authorities in Germany have significantly improved security for synagogues and other Jewish institutions in the country since a deadly October 2019 attack on a synagogue in the eastern German city of Halle.

"We have confidence in the security authorities and the case in Heidelberg unfortunately shows us once again how necessary such protection is," he said.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis have sent a letter to the European Commission calling for the creation of a pan-European air defense system. The EC responded positively to this proposal.

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This was reported by Reuters on Thursday, May 23. According to journalists, the letter states that the EU "needs a new flagship program, such as a European air defense shield."

"I have sent a letter to the European Commission together with Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis on a common European defense policy," Tusk said in an interview with TVP Info on Thursday evening.

According to the article, the importance of air defense has become the focus of Poland's attention after Russian missiles penetrated its airspace.

"There is already a very positive reaction from the European Commission to make missile air defense a common task for Europe because it is a huge amount of money," the Polish prime minister said.

He also said that EU states should "stop competing in the development of their air defense systems and start cooperating, including joint investments in the defense industry."

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"Only a strong, united Europe with a common defense policy can prevent war. We are preparing for war not because this war will happen, but to prevent it," Tusk said.

The President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen publicly reacted to the proposal of the Prime Ministers of Poland and Greece on her account on the social network X. She noted that Ukraine is "fighting for our values," so it should continue to be supported, but at the same time "strengthen our defense."

"We need less fragmentation and joint projects. For example, the air defense shield proposed by Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Donald Tusk," she said in a statement.

It should be noted that Ukraine continues to ask the West to provide more air defense systems because of Russian missile strikes that cause great destruction and civilian casualties every day.

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Also, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the day before that NATO countries could shoot down Russian missiles over Ukraine if they are flying towards Western countries. A solution similar to the one adopted for Israel during Iranian shelling is possible, but it requires a will.

Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba emphasized that mere words of solidarity do not intercept Russian missiles and called on the West to provide Ukraine with seven Patriot air defense systems.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Armin Schwarz, Hesse's Minister of Culture, attends the CDU parliamentary group meeting in the Hessian state parliament. Arne Dedert/dpa

The western German state of Hesse plans to start offering Ukrainian as a foreign language in schools, officials said on Friday.

The move is expected to make it easier for Ukrainian refugees to meet the requirements for earning an Abitur, the school leaving certificate that qualifies pupils to continue their studies at a German university.

Young Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war have repeatedly had to leave grammar school in favour of a secondary school due to the lack of a recognized second foreign language, a requirement for studying at top German high schools.

Hesse's Education Ministry said that offering Ukrainian courses in schools is also expected to help attract specialists and teachers in the future.

Although some schools elsewhere in Germany already offer Ukrainian language courses at schools, no states currently recognize the language as a second foreign language for the purpose of completing degrees.

The ministry said that there are around 20,000 Ukrainian refugees studying at schools in Hesse, as well as more than 300 Ukrainian teachers now living in the state.

Apart from English, which is widely taught in primary schools in both Germany and Ukraine, young Ukrainian refugees must learn German quickly for all lessons.

Some Ukrainian pupils at German schools could use Russian - which was widely spoken in Ukraine - as a second foreign language for upper secondary school. But the ministry said that most Ukrainians are reluctant to do so, since Russian is "the language of the enemy."

Hesse's Education Minister Armin Schwarz spoke of a "clear sign of solidarity" with Ukraine.

The Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, described the new educational offer as "a recognition of Ukrainian as an important European language."

Makeiev said the decision will relieve the burden on young Ukrainian war refugees here "and set a good example for all other states in Germany."
Germany delivers new batch of military assistance with Leopard tanks

Germany has delivered a new batch of military assistance to Ukraine, which includes artillery shells, Leopard 1 AP tanks, machine guns, drones, rifles and ammunition.

Source: updated data from the German Ministry of Defence, European Pravda reports

Details: Following this information, the latest batch of assistance that was handed over to Ukraine by Germany includes:

10 LEOPARD 1 A5 tanks;

20 machine guns for LEOPARD 2, MARDER and DACHS;

8,500 rounds of 155 mm ammunition;

20 VECTOR reconnaissance drones with spare parts;

34 RQ-35 HEIDRUN reconnaissance drones;

a BEAVER bridge-laying tank with spare parts;

DACHS armoured engineering vehicle;

Bergepanzer 2 armoured repair and recovery vehicle with spare parts;

four WISENT 1 mine-resistant tanks with spare parts;

two mine-clearing ploughs;

400 LED lamps;

16 Zetros tankers;

540 MK 556 assault rifles;

80 HLR 338 high-precision rifles with 60,000 rounds of ammunition;

111 CR 308 rifles;

1.8 million rounds of ammunition for firearms.

The list of military assistance planned or in the process of being transferred includes three HIMARS systems.

Recently, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, after a meeting with the heads of government of the Nordic countries, stated that Ukraine would continue to receive support from them.

German Vice Chancellor and Minister of Economy Robert Habeck believes that the German government should do more to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

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Berlin has handed over 10 Leopard 1 A5 tanks, ammunition for Leopard 2 tanks, 8,500 rounds of 155 mm ammunition, 20 Vector reconnaissance drones with spare parts, 34 RQ-35 Heidrun reconnaissance drones, and other aid in its latest delivery of military aid to Ukraine, the German government said on May 22.

The tranche also included four Wisent 1 demining tanks, 1.8 million rounds of small arms ammunition, a Dachs armored engineer vehicle, a Beaver bridge-laying tank with spare parts, as well as a Bergepanzer 2 armored recovery vehicle with spare parts.

Ukraine also received 16 Zetros tankers, 111 CR 308 rifles, 80 HLR 338 precision rifles, 540 MK 556 assault knives, 400 LED lamps, and two mine plows.

The 10 Leopard 1 A5 tanks were delivered under a joint project with Denmark.

Initially a hesitant partner, Berlin has become Ukraine's second-largest military donor after the U.S., although German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is still reluctant to supply some key capabilities, namely Taurus long-range missiles.

Berlin plans to up its military aid to Ukraine by another 3.8 billion euros ($4.13 billion) in 2024, Reuters reported on May 21, citing its unnamed source.

Read also: Skynex: The German drone destroyer reinforcing Ukraines air defense

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Germany officially confirms transfer of another IRIS-T air defence system to Ukraine

The German government announced that it has delivered another IRIS-T air defence system to Ukraine.

Source: German Defence Ministry citing Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Boris Pistorius stated, citing sources, that Ukraine has received another IRIS-T defence system from Germany, a system that proved to be highly efficient during actual implementation in Ukraine.

Quote: "We have once again given over to Ukraine a combined IRIS-T SLM and IRIS-T SLS fire system  an ultra-modern and proven medium- and short-range air defence system built directly by the German industry," Pistorius said.

He stressed that Russian airstrikes continue to destroy Ukrainian critical infrastructure and kill people.

"With the recently delivered Patriot system, we enhance Ukraine's air defence in its struggle against Russia's terrible campaign of aggression, which violates international law," Pistorius concluded.

It should be noted that messages of the "recently transferred Patriot" did not surface in an official capacity. In mid-May, Pistorius recalled that Germany pledged to send another Patriot to Ukraine, and that Ukrainian professionals who would operate it had begun training.

On Thursday 23 May, Germany delivered a new batch of military assistance to Ukraine, which includes artillery shells, Leopard 1 AP tanks, machine guns, drones, rifles and ammunition.



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On Friday 24 May, Ukraine reportedly received another IRIS-T air defence system from Germany.

Source: Der Spiegel, as reported by European Pravda

Details: According to Der Spiegel, another air defence system, an IRIS-T, arrived in Ukraine from Germany on Friday, the latest addition to Ukraines arsenal of one short-range and four medium-range systems.

These German systems, a relatively recent development, have proved to be extremely effective in protecting large Ukrainian cities and vital infrastructure from air assaults.

Germanys ambassador to Ukraine announced in mid-May that another IRIS-T would be provided to Ukraine by the end of the month.

Germany has promised Ukraine nine IRIS-T SLMs and eleven IRIS-T SLSs in total. However, the challenge is not only to produce the systems in sufficient quantities to meet Ukraine's needs, but also to produce interceptor missiles, as the manufacturer cannot keep up with the pace demanded by the war.

On Thursday 23 May, Germany delivered a new batch of military assistance to Ukraine which includes artillery shells, Leopard 1 AP tanks, machine guns, drones, rifles and ammunition.

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One of the pro-Palestinian occupiers of the Institute for Social Sciences at Berlin's Humboldt University (HU) is taken out of the building by two police officers. Activists have occupied the university in support of the Palestinians and in protest against Israel. Soeren Stache/dpa

German Justice Minister Marco Buschmann has criticized lecturers for their role in the recent pro-Palestinian protests at German universities and called for their accountability.

"Personally, I would like lecturers to encourage their students to present arguments. At universities in particular, it should be the stronger argument that counts - and not the louder shouting," the minister told the Funke media group.

"There must be no threats, no insults, no endorsement of criminal offences," he added.

There have been ongoing protests at German universities regarding Israel's actions in the Gaza conflict, with students expressing solidarity with the Palestinians. An occupation at the Free University of Berlin a few weeks ago was broken up by police.

Police on Thursday cleared parts of Humboldt University in Berlin that had been occupied by around 150 pro-Palestinian activists.

The university management initially tolerated the occupation and chose to engage in a dialogue with the occupiers and academics, despite facing widespread criticism from politicians.

Buschmann, a member of the business-oriented Free Democrats (FDP), said that Hamas was responsible for the suffering in Gaza and emphasized Germany's responsibility towards Israel, adding that those who disagree with this stance can refer to freedom of expression.

"The limit is reached where violence is carried out or incited, where personal rights are violated or the symbols of terrorist organisations are used," Buschmann said.

According to Buschmann, young people should resolve conflicts with rational arguments instead of "shouting down others or threatening them with their fists."

Buschmann defended police operations: "Universities are special places, but they are not outside the law. Demonstrations on the university campuses are subject to the same rules as other demonstrations," he said.

"That's why it is of course right for the police to intervene when the law is broken."

Marco Buschmann, German Minister of Justice, gives a press statement. Buschmann has criticized lecturers for their role in the recent pro-Palestinian protests at German universities and called for their accountability. Kay Nietfeld/dpa
The Gherkin transformed Londons skyline  but now is set to disappear from view

The Gherkin, pictured under construction, would come to symbolise the resilience and supercharged confidence of the City at the beginning of the millennium - Paul Grover

Other cities had an inferiority complex, desperately trying to catch up by building something interesting, says Peter Rees, former planning chief for the City of London Corporation. But in London we knew we were number one.

Twenty years ago, Rees and architect Ken Shuttleworth, then of Norman Fosters architectural firm Foster + Partners, were largely responsible for a new, glittering bullet on Londons skyline.

Its first name was the Swiss Re Building (after its main tenant), and later 30 St Mary Axe. But to Londoners it would always be the Gherkin.

After opening in the spring of 2004, the skyscraper quickly became a symbol of resilience and supercharged confidence at the turn of the millennia. Other cities have tried to replicate it: Barcelona with the Torre Glories and Bangkoks Pearl Building.

But Rees says the Gherkin was an accidental star. It was never meant to be wacky for wackys sake, he says. All the things that inspired its shape were practical: the barley-sugar twist is for natural ventilation; it is smaller at the top and bottom to make it less oppressive.

What is certain, looking back, is that the 180-metre skyscraper jump-started a building boom in the heart of the City  some say to its own detriment.

Once the second-tallest building in the Square Mile, standing just three metres shorter than Tower 42, today it is only the 23rd-highest building in the capital.

A cluster of taller, quirkier towers such as the Cheesegrater and the Scalpel are now part of the jumble in the City of London, obscuring views of the Gherkin from many angles as it turns 20. And yet more development is on the way still, threatening to all but obliterate from the skyline by the end of the decade a building that has come to embody the millennium era.

Conversation starter: The Gherkin won the prestigious Stirling Prize in 2004 but not everyone was initially happy with the design - iStockphoto

The plans have led to philosophical discussions of the kind rarely focused on outposts of high finance: what will be the future for Londons best-loved skyscraper if we can no longer see it? Is it too late to protect its place in the capitals vistas? Should we even try?

For the architectural profession and the public, the Gherkin has proved itself worthy of such debate. Just months after opening on April 28, 2004, it won the Stirling Prize, the UKs most prestigious architecture award. A year after that, queues for a public open day stretched for five hours.

At the outset, however, the Gherkin was the building much of London never wanted. It was the first tall structure in the City since the NatWest Tower opened in 1980, replacing the Baltic Exchange, a neoclassical trading hall of cathedral proportions, which was reduced to ruin by an IRA bomb in 1992. The modern, clean ovoid that would supplant a Grade II-listed Edwardian facade was a shock to traditionalists.

Detractors fretted that an enormous glass phallus would loom 591 feet above some of the most dignified churches in London. The press called it the Erotic Gherkin, and asked where you put the batteries, says Rees.

But the nickname that began as a term of abuse quickly turned into a term of endearment, with the buildings radical design becoming visual shorthand for a period of economic growth.

If a director wanted to say London, then characters tended to work in the Gherkin and go for lunch at Tate Modern  see the terrible 2005 Woody Allen film Match Point, says Charles Holland, an architect and author of How to Enjoy Architecture, a new book that aims to encourage readers to look closely at the buildings around them.

Customers sit at tables outside the Gherkin in 2020 - Simon Dawson/Bloomberg

The skyscrapers landmark status was sealed when a lookalike Queen Elizabeth II and Daniel Craig as James Bond flew over its domed frame in a helicopter for the opening film for the 2012 Olympic Games.

It is architecture as pure symbol, says Holland.

So what persuaded Londoners that the building many had dreaded was, in fact, a masterpiece? It holds its own. It is modern but it has a softness and gentleness about it that really gave it its appeal, says Grant Brooker, head of studio at Foster + Partners.

One story  which may be apocryphal but is wonderful  is that the tessellating triangular glazing was an intentional nod to the leaded windows of City churches, says Catherine Croft, director of the Twentieth Century Society, which campaigns to protect modern buildings. That level of character and originality seems almost completely absent from most high-rise London buildings of the past decade or more.

Its a combination of attention to detail and a compelling big idea, uncompromised by building programme, budget or setting, that makes the Gherkin so memorable.

Perhaps the best judges of all are the people who work in the building. They often speak of the drama of advancing weather systems and magisterial views, offset on occasions by the Gherkins snags.

The famous blinds which automatically come down were actually activated by heat on the windows rather than sunlight, and the temperature needed to reach a certain level before they worked, says one woman who worked for a Gherkin-based insurer in the 2000s. At a certain time each day, Id be partially blinded.

But most of the time it was great  very light, clean and pleasant. And the 360-degree views from the [40th-floor] bar were fantastic.

Rees remembers a lengthy approval process that brought such views to fruition.

English Heritage said that if the Baltic Exchange had to come down, it should be replaced by something of high architectural quality, a taller building with space around it, he says. Developers started to salivate [like] a hungry pack of canines.

An early design by Foster + Partners involved a millennium tower  twice the height of the eventual Gherkin. They came into our office with this huge box and they kept lifting the lid, more and more. It had two rabbit-ear things on top. Obviously too shocking, out of scale and out of place, so they withdrew it, says Rees.

Dozens of test models followed. Then one day Ken Shuttleworth put a model of a circular building in front of me, rather like a pumpkin. I said, Dont you think it would be better if it were taller and thinner?

Gherkin neighbour 'the Walkie Talkie' was once voted the ugliest building in Britain - Toby Melville/Reuters

Various accounts of the genesis of the design are on record. But there is no doubt about the buildings popularity today, particularly in relation to others in its immediate neighbourhood such as the Can of Ham and the Walkie Talkie, once voted the ugliest building in Britain.

In his 2022 book Iconicon, the architecture critic John Grindrod described the Gherkin as a building that makes you happy when you see it  thats if youre lucky enough to be still able to from behind the wall of towers that has grown up around it.

Jostled into submission by its generally inferior neighbours is how Croft puts it.

Increasingly crowded out, some have tried to stop the Gherkin from being upstaged altogether in years to come, though it would be unlikely to join the list of Londons 13 protected views of historic buildings, such as St Pauls and the Palace of Westminster..

Protected status from Historic England would go some way to preserving views of the Gherkin. But buildings under 30 rarely qualify for listing, meaning its not anticipated to be eligible for another 10 years.

Instead, campaigners have kept their focus local, albeit without success so far.

Last year, the City consulted on a new conservation area, and we argued the boundary should be extended by one street to include the Gherkin, says a spokesman for the Twentieth Century Society. That would have given more leverage for arguing it was being crowded out. But it was rejected.

Meanwhile, more towers are on their way. According to the tall buildings survey published by think tank New London Architecture this May, 583 buildings of more than 20 storeys are in Londons planning pipeline, partly in response to demand for premium office space  more than twice as many as the 270 built over the past decade.

Thats despite a general rise in vacancy rates tied to post-pandemic home-working practices, with 12.1 per cent of corporate space in the Square Mile set to be empty by the end of this year, up from 10.8 per cent in 2023, according to CoStar, a research company focused on commercial real estate.

Some say the development boom is a good thing, despite its implications for the Gherkin. The Gherkin was a marker, but I dont think it then becomes something that resists further change, says Brooker. London has this crazy organic quality, which is symbolically powerful. The Gherkins role was to enable that. It said, yes, London can evolve.

You cant protect views of everything, says Rees. You could say St Pauls Cathedral spawned the rival spires to the parish churches. The Gherkin is totemic of a period of change, the gaining of greater strength.

Lord Foster inside the Gherkin, one of his most famous designs - Andrew Crowley

Lord Foster himself seems sure of its legacy, regardless of what the future holds.

There is a nice irony that the nickname of the Gherkin was created by the critics as a derogatory term and has since been embraced by the public as one of endorsement, he says.

As others point out, the Gherkin is unique among skyscrapers in that its nickname was no contrivance. It was awarded by Londoners to the glittering bullet that stole their hearts.

For buildings to acquire a nickname by common consent they have to gain a place in the popular imagination. The Gherkin has done that, says Holland.

You dont design an icon, says Brooker. Its people who tell you if you have.

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Gimenez and Diaz-Balart want to ban visits by Cuban officials to U.S. airports

Miami Republican members of Congress said Friday they will introduce legislation to ban Cuban delegation visits to U.S. airports, following news that island officials were given access to Transportation Security Administration facilities at Miami International Airport on Monday as part of a long-standing cooperation program on aviation safety.

U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, who chairs the House Homeland Security subcommittee on transportation and maritime security, said he will introduce a bill to ban visits to U.S. airports by representatives of countries on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, including Cuba, so this doesnt happen in the future.

In a press conference Friday at MIA, he also said he would invite TSA director David Pekoske to testify at a hearing about the incident.

U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, chairman of a House subcommittee that makes decisions on the State Department budget, said he would also work to block the visits by using the appropriations process by which Congress administers the federal budget for different agencies, possibly the quickest, most effective way, he said in Spanish.

Last year, Gimenez and U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio introduced a bill prohibiting Cuban officials from touring U.S. port facilities after news that a Cuban Interior Ministry delegation was scheduled to visit the U.S. Coast Guard headquarters in Washington, D.C., and the port in Wilmington, North Carolina. Later, Congress added language to the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2024 prohibiting tours by representatives of countries designated as sponsors of terrorism under the International Port Security Program.

Gimenez said Pekoske told him he was unaware of the Cuban officials visit to the airport in Miami. News of the visit stirred a backlash in Miami because it coincided with Cubas Independence Day on May 20 and took place without the knowledge of Miami-Dade county officials.

Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava said she met Thursday with representatives of the TSA and the State Department, which helped coordinate the visit, and the Department of Homeland Security.

The agencies apologized and committed to changing their protocols to ensure we are informed before any other foreign delegations tour our airport, she said on X.

But the apologies did not end the controversy. On Friday, Gimenez, Diaz-Balart and, in briefer remarks, Sen. Rick Scott railed against the Biden administration for inviting representatives of a country officially designated as a sponsor of terrorism to learn about security at U.S. airports, a decision they called absurd and reckless.

But the TSA and the State Department have defended the visits as part of aviation safety cooperation that they say is vital to national security because dozens of daily flights connect the two countries. No other country on the list of sponsors of terrorism  Iran, North Korea and Syria  have non-stop, direct flights to the United States.

According to the TSA, Cuban officials started visiting U.S. airports in 2011 and continued under the Trump administration in 2018, though at that point, Cuba was not on the list of states that sponsor terrorism because President Barack Obama had removed it in 2015. The Trump administration put it back on the list in 2021.

The TSA also said a Cuban delegation toured MIA in 2015. Gimenez, who was Miami-Dade mayor at the time, said he didnt know about it.

Nobody informed me, he said. Its a lack of respect for the community.
'God's Influencer,' 15, Set to Become First Millennial Saint After Pope Francis Recognizes Second Miracle

Carlo Acutis died in 2006 after being diagnosed with leukemia

Alamy; Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images Carlo Acutis, Pope Francis.

A teenager who died at age 15 is set to become the first millennial saint.

On Thursday, May 23, Pope Francis met with Marcello Semeraro, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, and attributed a second miracle to the late Carlo Acutis, per the Vatican News.

Acutis  who has been called "God's influencer"  was born in London, England on May 3, 1991, and died from leukemia on Oct. 12, 2006 in Monza, Italy.

His body currently lies on display in an open tomb in Assisi, Italy, where the teen is dressed in his favorite outfit of blue jeans and black Nike sneakers.

If he's canonized, Acutis will become the first person born in the early 1980s to late 1990s to achieve sainthood, the BBC reported  although the outlet added that it's not yet known when this may happen.

Pope Francis already beatified Acutis in 2020. This process is a recognition accorded by the Catholic Church of a deceased person's entrance into Heaven and their capacity to intercede on behalf of individuals who pray in their name.

Vatican Pool/Getty Images A tapestry featuring a portrait of Carlo Acutis hangs at the St. Francis Basilica during his beatification ceremony on October 10, 2020 in Assisi, Italy.

Related: Pope Francis Concedes Surrogacy Could Be a Woman's Only Hope but Says It's 'Not Authorized' by Catholic Church

The late teenager  who was a web designer and documented Eucharistic miracles  was attributed with his first miracle for healing a young Brazilian boy from annular pancreas, which is a rare congenital disease, per online Catholic news site Aleteia.

According to the Vatican News, the second miracle relates to a woman named Liliana from Costa Rica whose daughter Valeria was left with severe head trauma and multiple other injuries after falling from her bicycle in Florence, where she was a university student, on July 2, 2022.

The website stated doctors had said she had a low chance of survival before Liliana's secretary started praying to Acutis. On July 8 that year, Liliana traveled to Acutis' tomb in Assisi and that same day, her daughter began to "breathe spontaneously."

Alamy Carlo Acutis.

After partially regaining her speech and beginning to move again, a scan then showed her hemorrhage had disappeared on July 18. By Sept. 2, Valeria was able to make the pilgrimage to Acutis' tomb with her mother to thank him.

"Many Catholics around the world are overjoyed at the news that Carlo Acutis will be declared a saint," Courtney Mares, author of the 2023 book Blessed Carlo Acutis: A Saint in Sneakers, told Fox News Digital.

"Carlo will become the first millennial saint in the Catholic Church. The computer-programming Italian teen is beloved by many for his joyful witness to holiness in our digital age," Mares added to the outlet.

Related: Pope Francis Clarifies Blessing Same-Sex Unions  'That Cannot Be Done'  But Says 'Everyone' Can Be Blessed (Exclusive)

Vatican Pool/Getty Images People attend the beatification ceremony of Carlo Acutis at the St. Francis Basilica on October 10, 2020 in Assisi, Italy.

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Acutis' tomb is located in Assisi's Sanctuary of Spoliation. For the first time in history we will see a saint dressed in jeans, sneakers, and a sweater, the rector said, per the Church of the Little Flower Parish website. This is a great message for us, we can feel holiness not as a distant thing but as something very much within everyones reach because the Lord is the Lord of everyone.

Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino of Assisi added, according to the outlet, that Acutis linked to via his own site, Carlo is a boy of our time. A boy of the internet age, and a model of holiness of the digital age."

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Hes going to become a hero. Family and friends remember man who died in Tarrant jail

Read the latest in our coverage of the death of Anthony Johnson Jr. and other issues in Tarrant County jail.

Anthony Johnson Jr. was not someone who died in jail on Friday morning, when his family and friends gathered in Mansfield to honor his life and service to his country. He was a loving son, a caring brother, a serious but playful friend. They mourned their loss in tearful song and fond remembrances.

Johnson died after an altercation with Tarrant County jailers on April 21. The medical examiner has yet to release an official cause of death and an investigation by the Texas Rangers is ongoing.

His mother, Jacqualyne Johnson, announced at a press conference on May 21 that his memorial service would be open to the public. Held at the Mansfield Funeral Home, it began at 10 a.m. with an open casket viewing, which was followed by a funeral service.

No scale exists by which we measure and compare the depth of our grieving, but the pain at having witnessed Johnsons final moments was evident in the faces and cries of his family members who have seen the full video of the altercation.

Anthony, why are you here? asked his sister Janell Johnson during the open casket viewing.

His mother and sisters have described the unreleased footage of the altercation a nightmare.

The Sheriffs Office released an edited version of the video on May 16. That video is about five and a half minutes long. His family has said that the full video is between 14 and 15 minutes.

Johnson, 31, was arrested on April 19 while in the throes of a mental health crisis. He suffered from schizophrenia.

Anthony Johnson Jr.s mother Jacqualyne Johnson grieves during her sons funeral on Friday, May 24, 2024, in Mansfield. The Johnson family is calling for accountability after he was killed while in custody at the Tarrant County Jail.

During the service, Janell Johnson, 32, said she always admired her little brothers handwriting and showed a letter he wrote to her son Corbin Ray Johnson on his 6th birthday.

He always gave me the strength and confidence to parent my son the way I need to, she said after reading his letter to a crowd of around 60 who came to honor his life.

Vietnam veteran Madison Hogan III did not know Johnson, but came to speak after hearing that he had also served in the Marines.

When I heard that Anthony was a Marine and served his country and came home and got killed by his country, that hurt, Hogan said. To all the family, the Johnsons, I send my condolences, because that could have been me.

Johnson family attorney Daryl Washington expressed his support and called for accountability in the case of his death.

Anthony took an oath to serve and protect and he held his end of the bargain, Washington said. Those guys at the Tarrant County jail also took an oath to serve and protect. They didnt hold their end of the bargain. Anthony did not have to die. He did not deserve what he got.

He said he spoke for the Johnson family when he thanked Tarrant County Precinct 2 Commissioner Alisa Simmons  who attended Fridays funeral but declined to comment  for her support of families like the Johnsons.

I was just doing a little research, and I looked back to some prior meetings, Washington said. And I just said you know if only they had listened to our commissioner, A.J. would be here with us today. Johnsons close family and friends referred to him by his initials A.J.

Family and friends touch each other during prayer at Anthony Johnson Jr.s funeral on Friday, May 24, 2024, in Mansfield. Johnson was killed while in custody at the Tarrant County Jail in April.

At a press conference last week, Simmons expressed support for activists calls for Sheriff Bill Waybourns resignation.

Family friend and Air Force veteran Lyndon Moton described Johnson as bold and told an anecdote of a conversation they once had in which he asked Johnson who his hero was.

He was like, You know who my hero is. My dad, Moton said. Thats why he joined the Marines, because his dad was a Marine. And were not going to let it be in vain. He fought to be a hero, and through this misfortune, hes going to become a hero.

This and other statements that Johnsons death be used to prompt change and accountability evoked strong reactions of support from the mourners.

Weve got to make a difference, Moton said. Hes one of many, and if it takes him to make that difference, to become the hero, lets make it happen.

Johnsons younger sister Chanell, 29, made a call for better treatment of people suffering mental health crises.

Like most of us, you wake up every day and you can control what you do, you can control your mind, you can control how you act, right? she said. Unfortunately, my brother didnt have that choice.

Family take a moment at Anthony Johnson Jr.s viewing prior to his funeral on Friday, May 24, 2024, in Mansfield. Johnson was killed while in custody at the Tarrant County Jail in April.

Johnsons mother and father did not speak at the funeral service.

Johnsons aunt Helen Johnson came from New Jersey to attend the funeral and said that she was able to forgive the jailers involved in the altercation that ended in Johnsons death.

Johnsons older half brother Craig Jennings, however, said he was not yet able to do that.

Speaking with reporters after the service, he said he did not know what it would ultimately take to be able to do so, but said accountability is where its going to start.

I think accountability has to be first and foremost, he said. Nothing that were doing today means anything without that.

Jennings also called out the reinstatement of the two jailers who were fired in connection with his brothers death.

I think thats ridiculous, highly irresponsible, he said. It just goes to show that its broken, right? Because its kind of odd to fire someone and then reinstate them. Thats just bizarre.

The two were reinstated and placed on administrative leave because the Sheriffs Office didnt follow protocols. Their attorneys expect them to be fired again.

Activists with the advocacy group United My Justice told the Star-Telegram that they have applied for permits to hold a protest on Thursday, May 30. They plan to walk from city hall to the Tarrant County jail.

When asked if the Johnson family plans to participate in the protest, Washington said they are taking it one day at a time and added that they are grateful for the support they have received from such groups.

To all the activists who have been fighting  not only since Anthonys death, but been fighting for years  that the family fully supports them, he said. Because we know that they are on the ground, and without the activist, this type of attention, we wouldnt know about the deaths thats going on.
Theyre not on the most expensive avenues, nor are they the tallest buildings in town. Yet, theyre crucial to job-creation and the American economy. Beyond the multinationals, the S&P 500 companies and the large chains, theres an important network of small and medium-sized companies and start-ups that keep the wheels of the economy turning. At the origin of many of these businesses are Latinos, who are currently creating companies at a higher rate than other communities. However, inequality remains: while Latinos make up 20% of the U.S. population, they own only 6.9% of all businesses.

According to figures from the Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative at Stanford University, there are 4.7 million Latino businesses of different sizes in the United States, which contribute $800 billion to the economy annually. 463,000 of these businesses employ over 3.5 million people. Its an important number, but taking into account that there are some 160 million workers throughout the country, the story of Latino entrepreneurship in the U.S. is just beginning.

Today, the economic contribution of these businesses could  and should  be far greater, if it werent for their limited access to financing, the vulnerability they have with respect to the liquidity in their coffers, as well as the fewer investment opportunities that are available to them.

Mari Borrero has experienced this inequality firsthand. Shes the CEO of a company that she founded with her husband in 2017: American Abatement & Demo (AAD). The demolition company, based in the state of Washington, employs formerly incarcerated people and has sales of $3 million and a team of 14 employees. But things havent been easy. Before becoming an entrepreneur, Borrero ran a hospice and had been a teacher. Hence, upon starting her new enterprise, she had to learn how to navigate an unfamiliar system and build relationships with banks and credit unions. Its a giant puzzle that you have to solve, all while managing a business, she sighs, while holding her pink construction helmet.

Borrero says that she feels like shes trapped on a hamster wheel: spinning around while looking for financing. First, they tell you that your credit score isnt high enough. Then, when you finally [have a good score] and apply for a loan, they tell you that you havent been in business for enough years. The goal always gets further and further away.

A few months ago, her company was recognized as a star client of the Washington Small Business Development Center. Barrero recounts a scene that has stuck with her: At the celebration that took place, there were many [bankers who] denied us financing. They told us they were sorry they couldnt help us, while congratulating us on the recognition. But how does that help me?

Despite the challenges, these companies highlight the vital role of Latinos in shaping a more inclusive American business landscape. Barbara Gomez Aguinaga  associate director of the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative (SLEI)  explains that 52% of job creators within the Hispanic business community are immigrants. In the case of white businesses, only 7% of employers have immigrated to the U.S. from other countries. This evidence adds to a series of studies  including ones commissioned by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)  that show the positive contribution of immigration to the overall U.S. economy.

Opening a business requires a drive thats similar to the one required when deciding to cross a border and starting from scratch in an unknown place. And, once in the U.S. business sector, the obstacles multiply and many ventures fall by the wayside, despite the evidence that shows how greater equality would benefit the country as a whole. Achieving parity isnt only crucial to empowering Latino businesses, but also to strengthening the U.S. economy and the countrys workforce, the Stanford report notes.

Elian Savodivker  the director of Engagement for the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN)  explains that, if it were not for these difficulties, the opportunities for growth would be far greater. Without these problems, companies could reach their potential. Its a $3 trillion opportunity. Her experience indicates that this business community is hiring at a higher rate and offering employees better benefits. Something weve seen is that Latinos tend to come from difficult situations, theres a sense of family thats really strong and very similar to the one they create with employees.

What theyve observed at Stanford is that, when a loan is requested for an amount of less than $50,000, Hispanic entrepreneurs have a higher approval rate than other groups. However, when it comes to a larger sum, the situation is reversed. The reason is because, when it comes to smaller loans, the decision is made by a systematized process. But when more money is involved, the human factor intervenes. This is when you have to have the conversation at the bank and thats when the chances of success are reduced.

This isnt a minor problem. Access to financing is important to survive extraordinary moments  such as the pandemic  but also to boost growth, for the functioning of the payroll system, the expansion of companies and the creation of more jobs. It also allows entrepreneurs to take advantage of new opportunities, such as the one that was presented to AAD, Borreros company, in 2023.

In May of that year, the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in the state of Washington burned down while undergoing renovation work. To be able to rebuild it and open it in time for the ski season, they first had to demolish it. The budget was $815,000 and the deadline was 30 days. The National Park Service contacted Borrero and she accepted. The problem? Her firm had to demonstrate sufficient liquidity to be able to get the contract and undertake the work, while also taking into account that the payment for the job would take months to be processed.

Unable to get a bridge loan from a financial institution, Borrero had no choice but to go to her parents. At this point in her conversation with EL PAIS, the businesswoman becomes emotional and fights back tears. She says that she knows that her parents are proud of her and her family, but she recognizes that they have their own needs. I knew they would help me, but it shouldnt be like this. It shouldnt come to this, because theres a lot of money out there, people are making a lot of money. Its very frustrating that its so hard for small businesses, that they continue to complicate conditions for us again and again.

The director of the LBAN emphasizes that financial institutions still have to learn that investing in Latino entrepreneurs is far from being a risky opportunity. Rather, investing in them would be a demonstration of a risk-averse attitude. Latinos know that its not the business thats a problem, she says. Its the bias. And thats what has to change, because when you see the numbers, you cannot defend that bias.

On the bright side, there are some trends that can help with the current imbalance. The greater presence of Latinos in more financial institutions  individuals who know the difficulties personally  will contribute to expanding opportunities in the long-run.

Savodivker adds that, today, Latino entrepreneurs are doing a lot with a little. In the end, everything is a matter of numbers: Change will come, because theres a lot of money thats not being used  financial solutions arent provided to this community.
A couple hundred people rallied on the Statehouse steps on May 13 for National Day Without Child Care. (Photo by Megan Henry, Ohio Capital Journal).

Republicans in the House and Senate recognized the crisis in Ohio involving child care costs and access, committing in a new bill to partner employers and the state, in the effort to stem the problem.

State Sen. Michele Reynolds, R-Canal Winchester, and state Rep. Mark Johnson, R-Chillicothe, announced companion bills in their legislative chambers that will start a new voluntary program they hope will bring back employees to the state workforce, and provide needed child care for employees.

Reynolds said the impact of the lack of child care access for many Ohio residents is severe, and has far-reaching economic and social implications, affecting child development, workforce retention and overall economic growth.

It has become clear that urgent legislative action is needed to address the affordability and availability of child care in Ohio, Reynolds said in a Wednesday press conference.

The bills  Senate Bill 273 and an as yet unlabeled bill in the House  come after a rally on the Ohio Statehouse called for changes to the system as advocates recognized a National Day Without Childcare, asking for increases in the eligibility level for publicly funded child care and improvements to child care workers pay and benefits.

Child care advocates have sounded the alarm on the problems in child care, the prohibitive cost and provider shortages, since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and even more so when the pandemic caused closures and losses in the industry.

The need for child care continues to grow, but accessibility isnt universal. A report from earlier this year found that 47% of parents in the U.S. are spending up to $18,000 per year on child care. Even if families can pay, there are other struggles, with the states child care staffing dropping 36% from 2017 to 2022, according to Policy Matters Ohio, and 40% of Ohioans living in areas where the amount of child care facilities cant compete with the population need.

The new bills in the Senate and the House would create a cost-sharing model, the sponsors said, which would split the cost equally between eligible families, employers and the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. Under the bill, $10 million would be allocated, but the future of the program depends on future legislatures after the money runs out, Johnson said.

Ill be the first to admit its not a silver bullet to fix all child care as we stand here today, but it also will stabilize the child care providers, especially those in the private community who are struggling right now since COVID money dried up, he told reporters on Wednesday.

The program would be completely voluntary on the part of the businesses, and discretion would be up to the employer as to which of the employees would be included.

Along with being selected by the employee, under the bill employees are required to be Ohio residents and ineligible for publicly funded child care, according to Reynolds.

Putting the child care program in the hands of employers should be an incentive to businesses who are seeing workers leave the workforce or cut down on hours due to a lack of affordable child care, or child care at all, according to the bills sponsors and the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, represented at the press conference by Senior Vice President of Governmental Affairs and former legislator Rick Carfagna.

We have recognized at the Ohio Chamber of Commerce that to have a qualified, reliable and thriving base of employees available to Ohio businesses, any discussion of workforce must include affordable housing, transportation and  child care, Carfagna said.

He called the child care scarcity in the state perhaps the single biggest throttle to employment entry or re-entry at this moment.

Lynne Gutierrez, chief operating and policy officer for child advocacy group Groundwork Ohio said similar models have been passed in surrounding states, and is a thoughtful and measured approach to a fundamental workforce issue.

We know that 800,000 workers in the last year have cut back their hours or retreated entirely from the workforce as a result of barriers to child care, Gutierrez said.

In October 2023, Ohio Democrats introduced their own attempt to help families deal with the costs of child care, through a family tax credit. The bill was referred to the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee the same month it was introduced, but has yet to see further activity.

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Louisville-area middle and high school students visited the Kentucky Capitol to rally for the CROWN Act. The students, all members of the Louisville-based hip-hop group, Real Young Prodigies, hope to see the CROWN Act ordinance expand outside of Louisville to be a statewide ordinance. Feb. 24, 2022

Gov. Andy Beshear signed two executive orders honoring Black history and protecting hair discrimination in the workplace on Thursday.

The executive orders that were signed during Beshears weekly Team Kentucky update makes Juneteenth an executive branch holiday and protects natural hairstyles with an effort that mirrors the CROWN act.

Juneteenth, which is celebrated on June 19, is a federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. The holiday was originally celebrated in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that more than 250,000 enslaved Black people were free two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective.

Other cities, such as Louisville, have recognized Juneteenth as a holiday for city workers since 2022.

This action will finally give this historic moment the recognition that it deserves, Beshear said.

In 2023, at least 28 states and Washington, D.C., recognized Juneteenth as a public holiday, where state government offices are closed and state workers have a paid day off.

State Senate Minority Leader Gerald Neal said he has filed legislation since 2022 that would make Juneteenth an official state holiday, but the bill stalled in committee multiple times.

Senator Gerald A. Neal (D) speaks on Senator Denise Harper Angel (D) as the Senate says goodbye to her during her last session on Monday, April 15, 2024.

Recognizing Juneteenth as an official state holiday honors the legacy and contributions of African Americans to our nations history, Neal said.

Meanwhile, the executive order that mirrors the CROWN act, which stands for creating a respectful and open world for natural hair, prohibits discrimination in the workplace against hairstyles historically associated with race.

In Louisville, the Metro Council previously passed its own version of the act in 2021 by including hairstyles as part of the city's anti-discrimination laws.

The measure is something that the state legislature has tried to pass for years, but it's never made it across the finish line. This year, bills were filed in both the state House and Senate, and Jefferson County Public School students rallied at the state Capitol in support of the legislation.

Past concerns with the legislation include whether the bill would infringe on the rights of private businesses.

Beshear said his executive order helps set a standard for fair and inclusive workplaces.

Ive always believed diversity is an asset, and across Kentucky we are building a brighter future for all of us, with a diverse workforce full of talented, hardworking Kentuckians from all different backgrounds, Beshear said.

Melinda Wofford, assistant director of the Transportation Cabinet, said that the executive order recognized cultural uniqueness and helps make everyone feel comfortable and confident to reach their potential.

The way my hair looks is not a reflection of my work ethic, and definitely not a reflection of my character, Wofford said. This order makes possible the freedom needed for me to continue to wear my hair in its natural state.

Reach reporter Hannah Pinski at @hpinski@courier-journal.com or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @hannahpinski

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Gov. Andy Beshear signs Juneteenth and CROWN Act executive orders
Flooding in Montana from 2022. (Provided by Frank James)

Gov. Greg Gianforte issued an executive order Friday declaring a statewide disaster in response to flooding in northern and central Montana.

Runoff from recent heavy rain and snow has compromised critical electrical infrastructure and roads and bridges in Montana, Gov. Gianforte said in a statement. This order will help impacted communities get back on their feet and protect the lives, property, and resources of Montanans.

The proclamation authorizes the governor to spend money from the general fund to address needs from the emergency. It also outlines the weather leading up to the order.

Northern and central Montana saw widespread totals of over two inches of snow and rainfall, and localized amounts from 5 to 7 inches at the start of the month.

Beginning on May 5, 2024, moderate to major flooding occurred due to heavy snowfall and rainfall causing damage to critical infrastructure in low lying and poor drainage areas.

The weather also caused significant damage to electrical infrastructure owned by rural cooperatives causing hundreds of customers in these areas to lose power, some for up to five days.

The Fort Belknap Indian Community, the Rocky Boys Agency, and Chouteau and Hill counties enacted emergency or disaster declarations in response to the conditions, with several of them reporting extensive damage to infrastructure, said a news release from the Governors Office.

The governors executive order may be found here.

The post Gov. Gianforte declares flooding disaster appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Sara Gagne-Holmes, current deputy commissioner of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, will serve as acting commissioner until Gov. Janet Mills announces a formal nominee. (Maine DHHS photo)

Deputy Commissioner Sara Gagne-Holmes will serve as the acting commissioner of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services starting June 1, according to a news release from the governors office.

The appointment by Gov. Janet Mills comes after outgoing Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew announced her resignation from the post to serve as the director of health care reform for the Century Foundation, a think tank in Washington, D.C., and to teach at Harvard University.

I look forward to the opportunity to build on Commissioner Lambrews transformative leadership of the Department and to advancing our vital work during this transition, Gagne-Holmes said.

Gagne-Holmes, a Sanford native, has been in her current role with the departments senior leadership team since 2019. She went to Bowdoin College for her undergraduate degree and graduated from the University of Maine School of Law. Gagne-Holmes practiced health care law before serving as a health policy and legal advisor under former Gov. John Baldacci.

Having served as Deputy Commissioner for more than five years, she deeply understands the operations of the Department and will ensure that it remains in capable hands as I continue to consider candidates to succeed Commissioner Lambrew and carry forward the important work of advancing the health and welfare of Maine people, Mills said.

The governor is expected to name an official nominee to replace Lambrew in the coming weeks. That person will go before the Legislatures Health and Human Services Committee for a hearing and receive final confirmation by the Maine Senate.

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The post Gov. Mills taps Maine DHHS deputy commissioner to temporarily lead agency appeared first on Maine Morning Star.
(The Hill)  Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) announced Thursday he would call the GOP-controlled state Legislature into a special session next week to discuss getting both President Biden and former President Trump on the states fall ballot.

Democrats have been unable to certify Biden as their nominee in the state  a largely procedural issue where both parties have to certify their presidential candidate with the state ahead of the states deadline  because the Democratic National Convention takes place after the Ohio certification deadline.

In this case, presidential nominees must be certified 90 days before the election, but the convention happens after that timeline.

Normally, one of the solutions would be a legislative fix, such as tweaking the certification deadline, but the state House and Senate have deadlocked on passing legislation this month, which would help create a fix to get Biden on the ballot.

DeWine said in a statement that he would be calling lawmakers into session Tuesday to address the issue.

Ohio is running out of time to get the sitting president of the United States on the ballot this fall. Failing to do so is unacceptable, DeWine said.

The purpose of the session will be for the General Assembly to pass legislation ensuring that both major party presidential candidates will be on the Ohio ballot in November, as well as legislation that would prohibit campaign spending by foreign nationals, he explained.

Ohio Republicans in the General Assembly took different paths toward trying to get Biden on the ballot. Senate Republicans took an existing childcare campaign fund bill to include a one-time legislative fix that would change the timeline in which Democrats needed to certify their candidate from 90 days to 74 days to accommodate the Democrats convention.

But the bill also included another provision that would ban foreign nationals from contributing money to ballot campaign initiatives, which drew opposition from Democrats. Democrats believe Republicans were upset after the party was able to scuttle a special election in August that defeated a ballot measure at the center of an abortion rights fight and for successfully passing an abortion rights measure in November.

Republicans have previously targeted Swiss donor Hansjorg Wyss for donating to groups that ultimately aided Democrats in those two elections.

State House Republicans, instead, had been pursuing a clean bill that would have permanently changed the certification deadline from 90 days before the election to 74 days.

While state Senate Republicans passed their solution, House Republicans didnt take it up for a vote. The House informally passed its legislative fix, but lawmakers were unable to proceed until soon thereafter.

Both parties have underscored that Biden would be on the ballot in November, though the path forward became more uncertain. Democrats had been mulling potential court action or another workaround fix with the convention.

DeWines announcement suggests neither of those options should be considered, though his push to pass the Senates proposal is likely to anger Democrats. DeWines move was applauded by the Senate GOP caucus.

We agree with the Governor. It is time to protect Ohios elections by outlawing foreign campaign contributions, while at the same time fixing the Democratic Partys error that kept Joe Biden off the November ballot. We encourage the Speaker and Minority Leader to allow a vote on House Bill 114 which does both, said John Fortney, a spokesperson for state Senate President Matt Huffman (R), in a statement.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Russian forces attacked the town of Nikopol in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on May 24, injuring three people, Governor Serhii Lysak reported.

Nikopol, situated on the banks of the mostly dried-up Kakhovka Reservoir, just across from Russian-occupied Enerhodar and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, is a regular target of Russian attacks.

Russian forces shelled the town and attacked it with a kamikaze drone throughout the day, damaging a house, according to the governor.

A 37-year-old woman and two men, aged 24 and 52, suffered mine-blast and shrapnel injuries, Lysak said. Two of the victims were reportedly hospitalized.

Russian attacks against Ukraine killed at least 10 people and injured at least 48 over the past day, the vast majority of them in Kharkiv Oblast, regional officials reported.

Read also: Zelensky visits Kharkiv printing house destroyed in Russian attack

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Graduate Anhthi Phan steps off the stage after receiving his degree during College of the Holy Cross commencement at the DCU Center Friday.

WORCESTER  It was a big day for Anhthi Phan.

In a few hours he was going to walk across a stage inside the DCU Center and get his diploma, signaling the moment he would officially become a Holy Cross graduate.

It's a walk thats been taken by millions of graduates over the decades at colleges and universities worldwide, but for Phan, the idea of taking it made him nervous.

I hope I dont blank out, said the Springfield native, who practiced walking in front of a mirror before Fridays commencement to make sure he had his steps down.

The practice paid off, because Phan strolled across the stage, was handed his diploma by Holy Cross President Vincent Rougeau, and departed the riser with what looked like a slight smile.

Mission accomplished for Phan, and that can also be said for the other 750 seniors who earned their degrees in the main auditorium of the DCU.

You did this, Rougeau told the graduates, noting that 50 years ago on graduation day, the first women in Holy Cross history received their diplomas.

Max MacDonald Congdon of Connecticut points to the stands during the academic procession to the DCU Center for the College of the Holy Cross commencement on Friday.

That transformed this college forever and for the better, said Rogeau.

The theme of women breaking barriers continued, as Holy Cross conferred an honorary degree to Laurie Leshin, director of the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Leshin is the first woman to hold the top title in the propulsion labs 87-year history. She is also a former WPI president and the first woman in that institution's history to hold that job. Leshin told the graduates during her commencement address they must dream things not yet possible" and do it by working with others.

Vincent D. Rougeau, president of Holy Cross, delivers remarks during the Holy Cross commencement at the DCU Center on Friday.

She shared the story of Robert Goddard, a Worcester pioneer whom Lashin said was considered crazy by his peers when he followed his dream of launching a rocket into space. A New York Times editorial at the time mocked Goddard, according to Leshin, but he wasnt deterred.

In 1926, after decades of research, Goddard launched the first liquid-fueled rocket in Auburn and Leshin said that moment launched the space age.

Like Goddard, you have persevered, said Leshin, reminding the graduates they not only withstood the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when they arrived on campus in the fall of 2020 but also have a college degree that can never be taken away from them.

Laurie A. Leshin delivers the commencement address during the College of the Holy Cross commencement at the DCU Center on Friday.

Others receiving honorary degrees included retired U.S. Navy officer Michelle Howard, the first woman to become a four-star admiral and first African-American woman to command a Navy ship. Howard wasn't in attendance and received the honorary in April. The Rev. Paul F. Harmon, a former Holy Cross administrator during its transition to coeducation, also received an honorary degree.

This was Holy Cross 178th graduating class, and each graduate had a story to tell. Michelle Cepeda, a 21-year-old from Providence, is the first in her family to earn a college degree.

"Its quite powerful. I feel on top of the world, said Cepeda who wore several sashes that hung over her graduation gown, including one that identified her Dominican heritage. I did this for my mom, said Cepeda, mentioning that her mother, Luisa Cepeda, immigrated from the Dominican Republic and was in attendance to witness her daughters milestone.

Charlotte Powers Mackin of New York City cheers during the academic procession to the DCU Center for the College of the Holy Cross commencement on Friday.

Riley Peck grew up in Paxton, population 5,000. She needed to spread her wings and she found herself at Holy Cross, she said.

Ive met people here from different walks of life. Its been really great."

A psychology major, Peck said shes interested in potentially pursuing a career in public health or going to law school. Im proud of what (the Class of 2024) accomplished, but Im sad to leave my friends and Im excited for whats to come."

Kevin Hamilton, who said during his valedictorian speech that he knew Holy Cross was for him as soon as he finished a tour of the campus when he was in high school, left his fellow graduates with a parting message.

Youve left a collective legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

Contact Henry Schwan at henry.schwan@telegram.com. Follow him on X: @henrytelegram.

Holy Cross graduates from Central Mass.

Rigoberto Alfonso, of Leicester

Misk Aljeboure, of Worcester

Daniel Bango, of Worcester

Josiah Bargmann, of Worcester

Emma Barry, of Westminster

Jordyn Brown, of Milford

Christina Bui, of Auburn

Levi Cass, of Westborough

Michael Cavanaugh, of West Boylston

Kyra Ceryanek, of Princeton

Joshua Choi, of Shrewsbury

Christopher Clark, of Harvard

Kelsey Connor, of Webster

Amelia Conte, of Worcester

Androniqi Danga, of Worcester

Brian Davenport, of Worcester

Will Donahue, of Southborough

Jennifer Dooley, of Millbury

Elyse Duff, of Shrewsbury

Regan Flanagan, of Worcester

Kaylee Fradsham, of Oxford

Julienne Frasch, of Berlin

Aaron Georges, of Worcester

Liam Gill, of Sutton

Isaiah Gomez, of Worcester

Kristina Hekkala, of Ayer

Jacob Hendricks, of Shrewsbury

Matthew Lawrence, of Worcester

Tan Le, of Worcester

Kirsten Letourneau

Isabelle Lindhurst

Alexandre Lopes-Gomes

An Ly, of Worcester

Liam Martin, of SterlingChristopher Mathewson, of Worcester

Joseph McCarthy, of Shrewsbury

Kevin Nguyen, of Worcester

Jack Ostrosky, of Holden

Tarynn Pacheco, of Worcester

Riley Peck, of Paxton

Mary Powell, of Worcester

Amanda Quintino Dos Santos, of Westborough

Adam Ramondo, of Southborough

Mikaela Renaud-Lowther, of Worcester

Declan Roche, of Westborough

Azka Tanveer, of Worcester

Lane Torosian, of Leominster

Foley Williams, of Worcester

Francisco Zafon-Whalen, of Worcester

Sophie Zahariadis, of Worcester

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: College of the Holy Cross holds graduation with 751 receiving diplomas
On Wednesday, the Orange County grand jury formally indicted Doujon Griffiths for the attempted murder of a man, the murder of a mother and her one-year-old daughter back in 2021.

The state attorneys office said it presented sufficient evidence to the grand jury to secure the indictment of 24-year-old Griffiths for first-degree murder with a firearm, first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder with a firearm, and three counts of shooting at, within, or into a building.

Griffiths was arrested in March in Linden, New Jersey, after a traffic stop.

Linden police said during the stop, they found the Orange County Sheriffs Office had an outstanding First-Degree Murder warrant.

Read: Deputies: Man arrested after killing Orange County woman, leaving her baby to die in hot car

Griffiths faces the charges for the September 2021 deaths of Massania Malcolm and Jordania Malcolm and the attempted murder for the shooting of Massanias boyfriend, who is Jordanias father.

Investigators said the incident started Sep. 7, when deputies responded to the 1900 block of Lake Heritage Circle about a shooting call.

They found a man in his 20s with multiple gunshot wounds. He was only able to tell deputies that he was shot by a friend before he was taken to the hospital and rushed into surgery.

Read: Sheriff: Manhunt underway after woman, baby found dead in car in Orange County

Two days later, a family member of that man contacted law enforcement and said they had been unable to reach the mans girlfriend and infant daughter.

Deputies said they then went back to Lake Heritage Circle and noticed no one was home, and there were no signs of foul play.

Detectives said the victim became conscious at the hospital and told them that he, his girlfriend, their infant daughter, and his friend were in his car when he was shot by him.

Read: Woman accused of killing elderly Mount Dora couple in 2022 found incompetent to stand trial

He also said he believed his girlfriend may have been shot as well. He believed his friend had driven off in the family car with his girlfriend and baby.

Shortly after, OCSO auto theft detectives located the vehicle in the parking lot on Lake Ellenor Drive.

Investigators said Griffiths shot and killed the 20-year-old woman in a vehicle after shooting and injuring his friend.

Griffiths left the womans baby in the vehicle without calling for help. Detectives said the one-year-old child was dead inside from the heat.

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Patrons smoke at Original Cannabis Cafe in West Hollywood. A nonsensical law bars dispensaries from selling food, but a California bill aims to change that. (Richard Vogel / Associated Press)

More Americans now consume marijuana on a daily basis than drink alcohol every day, according to a recent study .

Thats welcome news for an industry that has been unfairly demonized by opportunistic politicians since the days of Nixon. The findings  based on data gathered between 1979 and 2022 are consistent with the wave of decriminalization under state laws, notably with Californias Proposition 215 back in 1996.

After the election that year, a law professor at Loyola was quoted in the Los Angeles Times as saying this may be the baby boomers taking control.

It wasnt the boomers prevailing, but pragmatism.

Read more: Granderson: Marijuana isn't fueling cartels. U.S. laws drive the violence

About 1.3 million people in the U.S. are in state prisons . The most common reason for incarceration? Drug-related crimes. Given how much the country with the highest prison population loves pot, it makes sense to stop throwing people in jail for doing weed.

Today the only states where cannabis is totally illegal are Idaho, Kansas, South Carolina and Wyoming. Earlier this month President Biden announced plans to reclassify pot as a less dangerous drug.

Read more: Editorial: Biden's plan to reschedule marijuana may finally end 'Reefer Madness'

In short: Just say no is dead. Long live pass the dutchie pon the left-hand side.

The next important step in having policy actually reflect society would be for Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign the munchie bill thats likely to be headed his way soon.

Last year Assembly Bill 374  which would make it legal for dispensaries to become cafes and offer food as well as host live events  passed the Assembly 66-9 and the Senate 33-3.

Read more: Op-Ed: Why legal weed is losing the war to illegal weed

Surprisingly, Newsom vetoed the bipartisan bill in October , citing concerns about providing a smoke-free work environment for employees. That seems nonsensical, considering that it is already legal to consume marijuana in California dispensaries. AB 374 would have just made it possible to buy a bag of chips while you do it.

Marijuana cafes have existed in Amsterdam since the 1970s. Last summer I spent a few hours listening to music and eating homemade desserts at the first marijuana cafe in North America. Fittingly called New Amsterdam Cafe, the popular hangout opened in Vancouver in 1998 and is as chill as Issa Raes Hilltop Coffee.

However, vibes are not the only reasons Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) introduced AB 374. For him its also a matter of fairness and trying to level the playing field.

Small businesses have to follow every rule, and yet youre telling them they cant adapt and innovate and offer something people want, he said. The ones who follow the rules should be able to offer an experience. People pay a lot to sit in a winery. We have cigar lounges. This is really no different.

Despite law enforcements best efforts, illegal pot is estimated to have pulled in more than $8 billion in 2020 compared with $4 billion for legal . However, its the small-business owners who also have the burden of taxes, regulations and fines. All of which eats away at profits and businesses ability to grow. Haney said his proposal not only would allow small business owners to diversify their income stream, but also would encourage people to come out of their post-pandemic cocoons and socialize again.

California began liberating cannabis culture in 1996. Its only right the state continues to correct a narrative that was born not from science but from President Nixons prejudice . Its because of that cloud hanging over cannabis that advocates of decriminalization had to sweeten the deal for voters by promising a financial windfall for the state, which of course is why legal pot is ridiculously overtaxed.

Haney said he knows the cafes wont solve all of the problems that dispensary owners face because of competition from the black market, but it would at least provide owners with more ways to make money. Haney said he worked with both Newsoms office and the Department of Cannabis Control before reintroducing the bill. He said the new version, AB 1775, addresses the governors concern for the work environment, and it also has union support. It recently passed the Assembly 49-4 and is headed to the Senate.

My hope is that the munchie bill meets Newsoms approval. With proper ventilation for employees and customers alike, marijuana cafes could provide local artists with new venues and add another branch of tourism.

Im one of the younger legislators, and I see how excited my friends are, 42-year-old Haney told me. I have a couple of colleagues who represent suburban districts and one came to me and said, All the suburban moms are excited about your cannabis cafe bill. Post-pandemic, its been hard to get people to get out, and I think this just makes sense.

It really does.

@LZGranderson

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A new graphic novel tells the story of a soldier who received the Medal of Honor for tackling a suicide bomber to save the lives of his fellow soldiers.

Medal of Honor: Flo Groberg provides a succinct overview of Capt. Florent Flo Grobergs life, from his childhood in France to the heroic act that saved the lives of many and made him a Medal of Honor recipient in 2015. It was written by Chuck Dixon, drawn by Geof Isherwood, and colored by Peter Pantazis, with lettering by Troy Peteri.

Capt. Flo Groberg receives Medal of Honor: 'On his very worst day... he showed guts'

Groberg, who served with the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, was the first foreign-born recipient of the nations highest military award for valor since the Vietnam War.

The Association of the United States Army published the newest edition of their Medal of Honor series, which began in 2018, on May 22. Other issues have covered past Medal of Honor recipients, including Alvin York, Daniel Inouye and Alwyn Cashe, among others.

The whole idea of the series is to use the graphic novel format as a way to reach out to a new generation and teach them about Army history and Army values, said Joseph Craig, director of the book program for the Association of the United States Army.

He said they employ seasoned professionals from the comic book world to help bring the stories to life, relying on award citations and government and military documents to paint a cohesive narrative. They also work with professional historians to ensure biographical details are accurate.

On Aug. 8, 2012, Groberg was escorting 28 coalition and Afghan National Army personnel to a security meeting in Afghanistan while serving as a personal security detachment commander, according to the Army.

Halfway to their destination, a suicide bomber approached the group. Groberg rushed the attacker with the help of another soldier, pushing him away from the group as his vest exploded.

The blast caused the suicide vest of a second unseen suicide bomber to detonate prematurely, primarily striking a nearby building.

Grobergs actions caused the bombs to detonate away from the group, saving countless lives.

Four soldiers died that day, including U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin J. Griffin, U.S. Army Maj. Thomas E. Kennedy, U.S. Air Force Maj. Walter D. Gray and USAID Foreign Service Officer Ragaei Abdelfattah.

16 other soldiers were injured.

As a result of the explosion, Groberg lost nearly half of his left calf muscle, while also suffering nerve damage, a blown eardrum and a traumatic brain injury. He spent nearly three years recovering and medically retired from the Army on July 23, 2015.

Former President Barack Obama bestowed the Medal of Honor on Groberg during a ceremony Nov. 12, 2015.

On his very worst day, he managed to summon his very best, Obama said at the White House ceremony.

Groberg, in a 2020 interview with Military Times, described the history of his dedication to the armed forces.

I had to go through that dark period  5 Insights from a Medal of Honor recipient

Growing up, his uncle was killed in 1996 by terrorists in Algeria.

Groberg says his uncle fought for what he believed in and, as a result, was shot, beheaded and dismembered, all during a ceasefire. His remains were sent in a box to Grobergs grandfather.

Groberg was 12 at the time and says he realized then what it meant to serve a purpose. When 9/11 happened, he said he realized his purpose: to serve a country that had adopted him and given him opportunities.

Only five months after becoming a citizen of the United States of America, Groberg enlisted in the Army.

The proudest thing I have ever done in my life is to wear this uniform and serve my country, he said in a statement on the Armys website.
A portrait of the jurist Kevin Jon Heller, in an image provided to EL PAIS. Universidad De Copenhague

International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan last Monday made one of Israels greatest fears reality by requesting an arrest warrant for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense chief, Yoav Gallant, for the military offensive in Gaza. He made the same request for three members of the Hamas leadership. As a safeguard, the prosecutor relied on the opinion of a panel of independent experts and his special advisors. Among the latter is the jurist Kevin Jon Heller, one of Khans most trusted men, who spoke to EL PAIS on Wednesday about the work of the past eight months, the external pressures on the ICC Prosecutors Office, and what took place behind the scenes before a historic announcement.

First and foremost, Heller, 52, wants to make clear that there is a misperception regarding Khans work. He doesnt just go to the judges office and ask for an arrest warrant and thats it. He must first have sufficient evidence to consider that someone has committed a crime  one that falls under the jurisdiction of the ICC, such as war crimes and crimes against humanity. That task is a lengthy one. The documents will not be made public unless the judge decides so, but in comparable cases there are files of more than 150 pages with up to 1,000 footnotes, he points out during a video call with this newspaper.

The work began within weeks of the October 7 Hamas attacks and Israels subsequent offensive on Gaza. One of the main challenges was the gathering of evidence about possible crimes that fall under the jurisdiction of the ICC. From the outset the prosecutor made repeated requests to Israel to allow his team to enter Gaza. They were always refused, says Heller, who is also a professor of international law and security at the University of Copenhagen.

That is why the testimony provided by survivors, relatives of victims, local doctors, lawyers, journalists, and NGO workers concerning the alleged crimes committed during the Israeli armys campaign in the Strip was necessary. By contrast, Khan was able to gather first-hand evidence of Hamas atrocities during his December visit to the kibbutzim attacked by the Palestinian militia.

But the difficulties for the Prosecutors Office also came from other sources. Heller says there was external pressure for Khans announcement not to include Israeli leaders. He cites as an example a letter signed by 12 Republican senators in which they warned that a decision against the Israeli political leadership would result in severe sanctions against Khan and the judicial body in The Hague  neither the United States nor Israel recognizes the court. The threat from the Republicans ends with the phrase: You have been warned. It sounds like it was issued by the mob, its not the language you expect democratically elected senators to use, Heller notes. However, he points out that international pressure has always existed: I remember when, after the arrest warrant for [Vladimir] Putin [was issued], former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev said that Russia would launch hypersonic missiles against the headquarters of the court.

Hypocrisy

Predictably, reactions to Khans request for arrest warrants were mixed. The European Union signaled that it would respect the decisions of the ICC Prosecutors Office, while countries such as the United States and Germany criticized the request against Netanyahu and Gallant coming at the same time as those against the Hamas leadership. The ICC prosecutors application for arrest warrants against Israeli leaders is outrageous. And let me be clear: whatever this prosecutor might imply, there is no equivalence  none  between Israel and Hamas, said U.S. President Joe Biden. In Hellers view, when people talk about equivalence, its not about the perpetrators: its about the victims, no matter what side theyre on. The only equivalence is that both sides committed international crimes.

Netanyahu described the ICC prosecutors action as being directed against the entire State of Israel, while his government argued that the ICC has no jurisdiction over its prime minister as Israel is not a signatory to the Rome Statute that created it. In turn, countries allied with Israel, such as Hungary, have questioned whether they would execute the arrest warrants in their own territories if approved by the court.

Theres a word for that: hypocrisy, Heller states. The international law expert highlights the example of Putin: When his arrest [for war crimes in Ukraine] was ordered, everyone applauded. In the U.S., both Democrats and Republicans did, and on that occasion there was no problem with Russia not being a signatory [to the Rome Statute].

Possible additional charges

The case presented by Khan states that there are reasonable grounds to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant bear criminal responsibility for crimes such as starving civilians as a method of warfare, deliberately causing severe suffering to the civilian population, or committing extermination (through deaths caused by starvation).

However, the absence of a word so often used in the debate about the Gaza war  genocide  is noteworthy. According to Heller, the charges brought by Khan have a realistic perspective. That doesnt mean that we looked at crimes and rejected them. Its just that in the snapshot of the current situation, those were the crimes we felt comfortable going forward with, he explains.

However, activity in Khans office is not over. In fact, Heller makes a prediction: We can expect additional charges and suspects in this case once weve analyzed more evidence. Nothing is off the table. In any case, in the view of the jurist, last Monday, when the arrest requests were announced, will be remembered as one of the most momentous days in the history of international criminal law. Moreover, he believes it is indirectly a response to criticism of the tribunal for being focused on cases against criminals from the Global South.

Since Nuremberg, no official from a Western state has been charged with an international crime. Now that were not in Africa, apparently the smoke is going to our heads, Heller says ironically. Still, he remains optimistic: he hopes that, in view of widespread expectancy, the judges decision will come soon. And he trusts that, if it is affirmative, the international community will do the right thing and comply with their obligations.

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Greece studies Kyiv's new and old requests for military assistance

Athens has been reviewing a list of Kyivs old and new requests for military assistance from the reserves of the Hellenic Armed Forces against the backdrop of the new Russian offensive on various fronts in Ukraine.

Source: The English edition of Greek newspaper Ekathimerini, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Greece has committed to continue providing assistance to Kyiv as long as it does not affect the Hellenic Armed Forces deterrent power. In other words, it will not provide anti-aircraft systems until they are replaced with new ones.

New Ukrainian requests are sent to all NATO partners providing material support to Kyiv. They include missiles for anti-aircraft systems, Patriot and S-300 systems, spare parts for F-16 fighter jets and, if possible, F-16 jets themselves, RM-70 multiple-launch rocket systems, engineering equipment, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, artillery shells (155, 152, 122 and 102 mm), as well as mortar and tank shells (125, 120, 105, 30, 35 and 40 mm) among the requests concerning Greece.

Both Ukrainians and their allies are seeking solutions to strengthen Kyiv's defence capabilities.

One of these solutions is the supply of anti-aircraft ammunition available in Greece for use in systems that Ukraine already has.

In addition to the weapons and ammunition provided, Athens is using a method involving intergovernmental contracts with the US and Czechia to procure ammunition and other materials at the behest of Kyiv, funded by the budget of Greeces Ministry of National Defence.

The overall positive atmosphere in relations between Athens and Kyiv was confirmed on Thursday during a phone conversation between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Background:

Mitsotakis confirmed Greece's unwavering support by accepting Zelenskyy's invitation to participate in the Peace Conference in Ukraine, scheduled for 15-16 June at the Burgenstock Resort in Switzerland.

On Thursday, the Ukrainian authorities announced the signing of a security agreement with Greece in the near future following a meeting in Kyiv between Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of Ukraines Presidents Office, and Spyridon Lambridis, Special Envoy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic for Ukraine.

Nikos Dendias, Greek Minister of National Defence, denied media reports that Greece had secretly sent 250 containers with weapons to Ukraine.

In April, media reports stated that Greece and Spain were under a lot of pressure from their allies in the EU and NATO to supply Ukraine with additional air defence systems.

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By America Hernandez and Benjamin Mallet

PARIS (Reuters) -Shareholders in French oil and gas major TotalEnergies largely backed the company's strategy and its CEO on Friday, but support has weakened since last year as some investors called out its insufficient response to climate change.

The company's progress report on its sustainability and climate goals for 2030 was approved by 79.7% of shareholders compared to 88.8% of votes last year.

More than 75% of shareholders also voted for CEO and Chairman Patrick Pouyanne to continue another three-year mandate on the board, slightly lower than the 77.4% in 2021.

Some investors had said they would oppose his position to protest insufficient attention to climate concerns.

The board, meeting at the end of the AGM, reappointed Pouyanne as Chairman and CEO for the duration of his term on the board.

Greenpeace activists climbed a building near the company's western Paris headquarters early on Friday and unfurled a banner printed with a large photo of Pouyanne under a 'Wanted' heading.

Members of climate movement Extinction Rebellion also entered offices of TotalEnergies investor Amundi, which was also holding its AGM, damaging the building and injuring some security staff, according to the company and police. The company said they would file a complaint and added they will continue to be a major player in responsible investing.

Amundi "has the power to prevent destructive fossil fuel projects such as the climate bomb EACOP", said Extinction Rebellion on X, referring to the East African Crude Oil Pipeline that TotalEnergies is developing in Uganda and Tanzania.

Asset manager Amundi held around 9.5% of TotalEnergies' shares at the end of 2023, both in direct holdings and indirectly through managing the shares owned by TotalEnergies employees.

Activists and climate-focused investors have ramped up pressure on the world's leading oil and gas companies in recent years, frequently derailing shareholder meetings.

Earlier this week, climate activists also disrupted Shell's annual shareholder meeting in Britain, chanting "Shell Kills."

TotalEnergies had moved its AGM to its headquarters in the French capital's La Defense business district for the first time, after significant disruption in the usual city centre location last year.

More than 200 police were stationed around the building, according to Pouyanne, though strict security checks at the entrance caused long lines, prompting investor complaints during the meeting.

Others called out the company's continued exploration of oil and gas, with a member of the Fridays For Future youth climate action group describing the decision to construct the EACOP as a "murderous path".

Story continues

"We are trying to find a balance between today's life and tomorrow's. It's not because TotalEnergies stops producing hydrocarbons that demand for them will disappear," Pouyanne responded.

Pouyanne is looking into listing the company in New York in addition to its current listing in Paris to seek a higher valuation for the company that has seen rising investment from U.S.-based funds.

European investors meanwhile are under pressure to divest from oil and gas companies.

Plans to study such a move, first revealed last month, have caused a storm in Paris, with Pouyanne seeking to reassure on several occasions since then that the company would remain headquartered in France.

He has also clarified that he is considering a dual-listing, not a primary listing in the U.S.

(Reporting by Lucien Libert, Benjamin Mallet, America Hernandez and Augustin Turpin; writing by Tassilo Hummel and Dominique Patton; editing by Benoit Van Overstraeten, Philippa Fletcher and Josie Kao)
AUSTIN (KXAN)  The Save Our Springs (SOS) Alliance filed another lawsuit aimed at the City of Austins proposed use of property just south of the river from downtown, this time targeting the Planned Unit Development (PUD) for the former Statesman property.

The Statesman PUD was approved by Austin City Council in December 2022.

Plans for the area include a 275-room high-rise hotel, offices and residential units spread throughout six towers and just under 1,400 living units. It also includes affordable housing requirements, though they will not be on-site, and the city plans to build a light rail station in the area, KXAN previously reported.

The lawsuit claims the City of Austin violated the Texas Open Meetings Act and the Austin City Charter Related to Parkland. The group also claimed there were inconsistencies in procedure and that the city engaged in Contract Zoning to Provide Special Variances to Zoning Requirements.

The package of development entitlements associated with the Statesman PUD is unprecedented, said Bobby Levinski, an attorney with the Save Our Springs Alliance. This PUD goes beyond zoning by essentially adopting a separate code unique only to this property.

The lawsuit asked a judge to file an injunction against the City that will force them to stop approving permits, city fee waivers and other development subsidies contained in the final December 1, 2022, ordinance for the Statesman PUD.

KXAN reached out to the City of Austin for a statement. City Attorney Anne Morgan sent the below statement:

We just received the lawsuit filed by SOS that challenges a 2022 ordinance and related actions involving the former Austin American-Statesman property. We are reviewing the lawsuit and will respond through the court process as appropriate. City Attorney Anne Morgan

South Central Waterfront District

Its the same group that got a Travis County district judge to rule against the City of Austin in an April 2023 lawsuit, saying the city violated state law when it approved the use of some property tax dollars to help redevelop the South Central Waterfront District which includes the Statesman property.

Judge rules against City of Austin over South Central Waterfront funding

The tax increment reinvestment zone (TIRZ) approved for the area would have diverted $354 million away from the citys general fund over 19 years, court documents said.

Every other property owner has to comply with the laws that protect Austins water bodies and parks and that ensure the creation of income-restricted housing, said Levinski. The City Council shouldnt be granting special privileges to billionaires at the expense of its other taxpayers.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
An apartment complex advertises vacancies in a residential area of Bismarck. (Mary Steurer/North Dakota Montior)

A new committee appointed by Gov. Doug Burgum seeks solutions for North Dakotas housing crunch.

The group, called the North Dakota Housing Initiative Advisory Committee, this year is conducting listening sessions to gather information about housing needs across the state.

The committee will use those findings to put together policy recommendations for the 2025 Legislature, according to an announcement from the governors office.

One of the themes that I am pretty sure will characterize this whole conversation is really built on this idea that our state is growing, employers are investing, but unless you have a workforce, that growth stops, said committee member Jessica Thomasson, who is the states executive director of human services. So people are really, I think, connecting the dots that housing is a workforce issue.

The Housing Initiative Advisory Committee last week hosted its first two listening sessions, one in Fargo and one in Bismarck.

In each session, they spoke with a private group of local leaders and industry representatives, Thomasson said.

We tried to bring together a group of people to have a pretty targeted conversation over about 90 minutes, but we have other opportunities for a broader voice to be captured, she said.

North Dakotas housing problems may not be as pronounced as other parts of the country, but in many communities across the state, the demand for housing still outpaces supply, Thomasson said.

Sometimes its about the variety of housing thats available, she said.

Thomasson said the committee is shooting to have its recommendations submitted to the Legislature by the fall. While future listening sessions have yet to be scheduled, the group wants to visit at least two other communities, she said.

The state has launched a website for the Housing Initiative which lists several housing-related resources  including a link to an anonymous housing needs survey, which asks respondents about their living situations and housing issues in their communities.

There are also several links to North Dakota housing data reports, as well as recent housing plans adopted by local governments across the state.

Burgum first announced the initiative in his 2024 State of the State Address in January.

We want to hear from renters and homeowners and developers and community leaders, housing providers and anybody whos got a future in the future of the economic success of North Dakota, he said during his speech.

He mentioned a 2022 study by North Dakota State University that found the state will need over 9,000 additional housing units by 2025 to support North Dakotas growing labor force.

Its workforce infrastructure, and weve got to create the right kind of incentives for the private sector to bring capital and to help solve these problems, Burgum said.

Here are the members of the Housing Initiative Advisory Committee:

State lawmakers and officials:

Sen. Brad Bekkedahl, R-Williston

Sen. Dean Rummel, R-Dickinson

Rep. Mike Beltz, R-Hillsboro

Rep. Austen Schauer, R-West Fargo

Maria Neset, Governors Office

Jessica Thomasson, Department of Health and Human Services

Shawn Kessel, Department of Commerce

Dave Flohr, Housing Finance Agency

Local officials:

Chad Peterson, Cass County Commission

Steve Kemp, Williams County Commission

Nick Ziegelmann, city of Grafton

The committee also includes the following representatives from banks, real estate and utility companies, economic development organizations and nonprofits:

Nathan Berseth of Bell Bank

Kim Settel of Gate City Bank

Dave Mason of First International Bank

Angela Carlson of Slope Electric Cooperative

Matt Marshall of Minnkota Power Cooperative

Teran Doerr of Bowman County Development Corporation

Mark Lyman of Minot Area Chamber Economic Development Corporation

Brent Ekstrom of Community Works ND

Andrea Olson, Community Action Partnership ND

Janelle Moos, AARP

Daniel Erickson, Investors Management and Marketing

Nick Hacker, The Title Team

Jeff Sattler, Sattler Homes

Darren Schmidt, Oaktree Realtors

The post Group gathering input on North Dakota housing needs appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
Jurors took just under three hours to convict a Jacksonville man of killing a young boyfriend and girlfriend outside a shopping center ATM nearly two years ago.

Raishion Gist, 22, was found guilty Thursday on two counts each of first-degree murder and armed burglary, court records show. Sentencing is to be set on June 6, but first-degree murder convictions in Florida mandate life in prison unless prosecutors seek the death penalty.

Killed were Jamarion Barnes, 21, and Tyniya Powell, 20. They were shot at 5617 Bowden Road the night of June 20, 2022. Barnes was found lying outside the drivers door of Toyota Corolla and Powell outside the passenger door, according to the incident report.

Jamarion Barnes, left, and Tyniya Powell

Surveillance video from across Bowden Road at 9:18 that night show the last moments before they were shot parked next to the ATM at the busy corner of Bowden and Spring Park roads.

Secured by Times-Union partner First Coast News, the video shows a man in dark clothing getting out of the car's back seat, opening the driver's door and grabbing something before walking away. He sprints back to shut the driver's door and running away quickly.

Gist

Gist's arrest report says drugs were involved. He had texted one of the victims earlier in the day about needing some drugs, according to a warrant.

Barnes' 20-year-old brother, Jelijah Barnes, was killed earlier that same year on March 13 in the 7000 block of South Beekman Lake Drive, according to the Times-Union's previous reporting. Police released very little about the circumstances, other than he was shot multiple times exiting his vehicle at a residence. No arrests have been reported.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jurors convict killer of young couple outside ATM in Jacksonville
He had a resounding victory. How many votes did Biden clinch in Idahos Democratic caucus?

President Joe Biden handily won Idahos Democratic presidential caucus Thursday, sweeping away a field of five other little-known candidates.

The 81-year-old president seeking a second term has already secured enough delegates to win the nomination at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August and will likely face former President Donald Trump in November. Idahos votes in the caucus proportionally determined how the states 23 delegates will vote in the convention.

Biden won more than 95% of the 2,412 votes cast in the presidential caucus, according to a news release from the Idaho Democratic Party, meaning the five other candidates earned a combined total of less than 150 votes. Marianne Williamson, who received the second-most votes, secured 3% of the votes.

Less than 2% of Idahos more than 125,000 Democratic voters participated in the caucus. Unaffiliated voters who did not participate in another partys caucus were also eligible to participate.

Less than 7% of Republican voters participated in the GOP caucus in March. The last time Idaho Democrats caucused was in 2016, when nearly 24,000 voters showed up as Bernie Sanders and Hilary Clinton contended for their votes. Sanders won by a 4-to-1 margin, according to previous Idaho Statesman reporting. Clinton went on to win the national nomination.

President Biden and Vice President Harris promised to rebuild our economy from the bottom up and middle out, and thats exactly what they have been doing for Idahoans, Idaho Democratic Party Chair Lauren Necochea said in the news release, noting his resounding victory.

We know whats at stake in this election: our personal freedoms, our childrens economic future, our ability to make life better for everyday Americans, and our democracy, she added. Idaho Democrats are ready to organize and win in 2024.
(Bloomberg) -- Many of Nikki Haleys donors will vote for Donald Trump but wont financially contribute to his campaign, said New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu.

Most Read from Bloomberg

I think the majority of them will come over and vote for Trump, Sununu, a Haley ally, said in an interview on Bloomberg Televisions Balance of Power Thursday. Will the donor base come over to Trump? Eh, probably not. Not like they have in the past.

The remarks come a day after Haley, the last Trump challenger to drop out of the Republican primary, said she would vote for Trump. Haley said the former president, who hurled insults at her throughout the primary, is an imperfect candidate on many policy issues.

As a candidate, she was a prolific fundraiser, drawing the support of deep-pocketed Republican donors, including Citadels Ken Griffin and the Charles Koch-backed Americans for Prosperity.

Trump has struggled to win over many of Haleys former donors and is trailing President Joe Biden on fundraising totals. In recent weeks, his campaign has emphasized raising money, courting donors in the oil and gas industry and Palm Beach billionaires. In April, he outraised Biden for the first month, but still has far less money in the bank than his rival.

Earlier: Nikki Haley Says She Will Vote for Donald Trump in November

Sununu predicted much of the Republican donor base would put their money into congressional and gubernatorial races, instead of in the presidential race, in what could be a blow to Trump

Trump has attempted to attract voters beyond his base, holding rallies in historically Democratic strongholds and courting voters of color, a bloc that helped Biden win the White House in 2020. He has been forced to forge a campaign schedule around his criminal trial in Manhattan over allegations involving hush money payments to an adult film actress.

--With assistance from Joe Mathieu.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
The Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement has welcomed the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) call for Israel to immediately end its military operation in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.

In a statement published on Friday, Hamas called on the international community and the United Nations to exert pressure on Israel.

A member of the Hamas politburo emphasized that without international pressure, the court's decision would have no effect.

The ICJ called on Israel to put an immediate end to the controversial military operation in Rafah. The decision by the highest court of the United Nations in The Hague was based on an urgent application by South Africa.

According to the judges, the humanitarian situation in Rafah is "disastrous."

Hamas also stated that the organization had expected the court to order an end to the Israeli military operation in the entire Gaza Strip.

The Gaza war was triggered by the terrorist attack by Hamas and allied groups on October 7 last year. More than 1,200 people were killed and more than 240 people taken hostage to the Gaza Strip.
JINAN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday stressed the need to deepen reform further across the board with efforts centering on advancing Chinese modernization. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks while chairing a symposium in Jinan, Shandong Province, attended by representatives from businesses and academia. "Reform is the driving force for development," Xi said, noting that to deepen reform further on all fronts, efforts should be focused on the overarching goals of improving and developing the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, and modernizing China's governance system and capacity. He added that China should take resolute steps to remove the ideological and institutional barriers hindering the advancement of Chinese modernization, and double down on its efforts to resolve deep-seated institutional challenges and structural issues. Xi's trip to Shandong is the first local inspection he has made since the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau held a meeting on April 30. It was decided at the meeting that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be held in Beijing in July, and that the session will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization. Nine representatives including entrepreneurs from state-owned, private and foreign-funded enterprises spoke at the symposium to put forward opinions and suggestions on deepening reform across the board, covering such issues as developing venture capital investment, upgrades of traditional industries, improving the corporate governance of private enterprises and optimizing the business environment for foreign enterprises. It is the CPC's consistent approach and fine tradition to conduct in-depth research and extensively solicit opinions from various parties before making major decisions and formulating important documents, Xi said, adding that relevant departments should carefully study and absorb opinions and suggestions for further deepening reform in an all-round way that were brought up during the symposium. China should adhere to and develop its basic economic system and work to build a high-level socialist market economy system, Xi said. Economic system reform should start from meeting realistic needs and tackling the most urgent matters, and should advance theoretical and institutional innovation in the process of solving practical problems, he added. "The Chinese people's aspiration for a better life is the goal we have been striving for, and the ultimate purpose of advancing reform and promoting development is to improve the livelihood of the people," Xi said. He emphasized the need to identify the key areas of reform and achieve breakthroughs based on the pressing concerns and aspirations of the general public, including employment, income growth, education, healthcare, housing, government services, childcare, elderly care, personal safety, and property security. Xi stressed that no matter how and where reform goes, certain "fundmental things" must not be compromised, including upholding the overall leadership of the Party, adhering to Marxism, sticking to the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and upholding the people's democratic dictatorship. "At the same time, we must dare to innovate and do a good job in reforming what should be and could be reformed, and persist in our efforts once we find the right path," Xi said. Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, who are also members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the symposium.
From left to right: the Assistant Minister for Multilateral Affairs of the Palestinian National Authority, Ammar Hijazi, the Director of International Relations of South Africa, Zane Dangor, and the South African Ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, outside the headquarters of the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

The United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday ordered Israel to immediately halt its military offensive against Rafah, in southern Gaza, and any other action that could lead to the total or partial destruction of Palestinians as a group. This is a new, urgent measure adopted in view of the fact that the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip [...] has deteriorated. The judges also demand that Israel keep the Rafah crossing on the border with Egypt open so that humanitarian aid can enter. Finally, they ask the government of Benjamin Netanyahu to allow access to Gaza to the investigative committees sent by the U.N. to probe allegations of genocide made in the lawsuit presented by South Africa last December. Israel must inform the court within a month of the application of all these measures, which, however, fell short of demanding a complete end to the invasion of Gaza.

For the court, the humanitarian situation is now to be characterized as disastrous following the intensification of the bombing and orders for the forced evacuation of Rafah. The judges emphasize that the circumstances are exceptionally grave. In the public reading of the decision, the president of the court, Nawaf Salam, recalled that since the recent start of the military operation in Rafah, at least 800,000 people  the vast majority of the 1.2 million living in that small territory  have had to leave the southern city, and that the evacuation and other measures applied by Israel to ensure the safety of civilians are not sufficient and present an imminent risk to the population. The court also stated that it has received no evidence that the Israeli government is providing security and guaranteeing access to decent humanitarian conditions.

Fridays decision includes emergency and far-reaching precautionary measures to protect Palestinians taking refuge in Rafah, the last area of Gaza that Israel still does not fully control. The ICJ, the U.N. body that settles conflicts between states, demands a stop to the offensive or any other action against the Palestinians as a group that could inflict conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.

It is the third time that the ICJ judges have ruled in this case since South Africa filed a lawsuit accusing Israel of committing possible genocidal acts in the Strip. Pretoria has argued that it may be the courts last chance to ensure the survival of Gazans.

The provisions demanded this Friday by the ICJ were emergency measures due to the intensified bombing by Israel, which does not recognize the jurisdiction of the court. The merits of the case (whether or not genocide is being committed in Gaza) is not being addressed for now. This question, which may take several years to resolve, will require substantiating whether, as South Africa denounces, this crime has indeed occurred. Pretoria currently maintains that Israels legitimate defense against Hamas attacks cannot translate into unchecked violence against civilians. Since the Israeli offensive began, starting with the Hamas attacks on October 7, the death toll in Gaza has reached 35,800 people, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health.

According to Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, one of South Africas delegates to the ICJ, the Israeli military campaign has not only caused hunger and destroyed infrastructure. From the onset, Israels intent was always to destroy Palestinian life and to wipe them off the face of the earth. Rafah is the final stand, he said at the ICJ in May. On previous occasions, the court concluded that there was a risk of irreparable harm to the Palestinians right to be protected from genocide. For this reason, on January 26, it first demanded that Israel adopt the necessary measures to prevent acts of this kind, and to allow the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. On March 28, in a second round of expanded precautionary measures, the court again demanded that the Israeli government take steps to avoid famine in the Strip.

The Israeli government has responded that it only launched its attack after Hamas broke into its territory on October 7, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages, according to its count. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects any accusation of genocide, and his spokesmen Avi Hyman said on Thursday that no power on earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza.

The ICJ has no means of enforcing its orders, but this latest decision hinders Israels ability to proceed as usual in Gaza. The ICJ is the highest judicial body of the U.N. and there is also the possibility that the Security Council will rule again on this war. It already did so last March by calling for a ceasefire in Gaza after the United States failed to veto the initiative. It also called for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages held by Hamas. It was the first time that the Council had made an appeal of this nature since the start of the war in October. Right now, the diplomatic pressure on Israel to end hostilities is greater than ever. Spain, Ireland and Norway have announced that they will recognize the Palestinian State next week. Although Palestine is only an observer state within the United Nations, it is already recognized by at least 140 countries in the world.
Is it happy? Veterans share why they wish people wouldnt say Happy Memorial Day

To U.S. Army veteran Ryan Timmermans, Memorial Day is a Monday like any other. He doesnt need a holiday to remember his friends and colleagues who are no longer here. Thoughts of them still haunt him every day.

In 2012, while he was stationed in Afghanistan, a back injury kept him at the base during a mission. Another soldier went in his stead. Within hours, Timmermans learned that the group had been hit by a roadside bomb. The explosion was so large, it vaporized their vehicle. No one survived.

I was hollow, he said, describing the survivors guilt that ripped through him. That was my place to die.

Memorial Day is on May 27 this year. Timmermans admits he hadnt clocked that it was coming up. Its a strange topic for him. He thinks the meaning of the day is widely misunderstood.

Ill give you one example: Happy Memorial Day! he said, imitating the greeting. Is it happy?

Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by Congress in 1971, to be observed annually on the last Monday in May, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Despite this being the holidays 53rd year, new survey data from the United Services Automobile Association found that less than half of U.S. adults (46%) understand its meaning.

Ed Martinez, a U.S. Air Force veteran, says that a lot of people dont recognize the somberness of the day, mixing it up with more celebratory holidays like Veterans Day and Armed Forces Day.

Sometimes civilians get them confused, sometimes theyll thank you for your service on Memorial Day, Martinez said.

While he appreciates the gesture, Martinez says this day is not about him.

Its to honor the dead, not the living, he said.

After his military retirement in 2006, Martinez became commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in OFallon, Illinois, and still serves as Honor Guard leader. He takes part in its annual Memorial Day ceremony.

Martinez says there are small things people can do if they want to honor those who are still here, such as appreciating the country they live in. He says this is a gratifying thing to see for vets like him. He also hopes that people will support veterans who are struggling.

Depending on the conflict, there are more people dying by suicide than in the actual conflict, he said.

In 2021, research from Brown University found that 30,177 current and former military personnel died by suicide in the 20 years since 9/11, compared to 7,057 who were killed in combat in the same 20 years.

Timmermans was almost one of those. When he got back from Afghanistan, two of his friends took their own lives. He says he was nearly the third.

Timmermans remembers seeking help from the VA in 2013 for his own suicidal ideations. He waited for months just for his appointment to obtain a referral. Then, once he got his referral, he was told there would be another three-month wait to be seen for treatment.

What saved him was a call to return to Afghanistan days later, which he took eagerly. In his words, he needed to get away again and  most importantly  out of his head.

To this day, Timmermans finds solace in staying immersed in work. He is the founder and executive director of Veterans Off-Grid, a New Mexico nonprofit organization that builds sustainable homes for veterans who need housing. To him, this is a continuation of his service.

We took an oath to leave no one behind, he said.

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By Nidal al-Mughrabi

CAIRO (Reuters) - Israeli forces stepped up military strikes on Gaza on Friday, residents and medics said, with planes bombing targets in the southern city of Rafah even as the U.N.'s top court ordered Israel to halt its offensive there.

Heavy fighting was also reported in Jabalia, in the north, where Israel's military said it had recovered the bodies of three hostages killed during the Hamas-led attacks on Oct. 7 that triggered the war.

In Rafah, where an escalating Israeli assault has sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing from what was one of the few remaining places of refuge, residents reported intensifying aerial and ground bombardment in the south and centre of the city that borders Egypt.

As the fighting raged, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), also known as the World Court, said the situation in Rafah was now "disastrous" and ordered Israel to "immediately halt its military offensive".

The ruling was in response to a request by South Africa in part of a wider case accusing Israel of genocide.

Israel has repeatedly dismissed that accusation as baseless and had signalled it would ignore any ruling to halt its offensive by the court, which has no enforcement powers. It says it has no choice but to attack Rafah to root out the last battalions of Hamas fighters it believes are sheltering there.

Residents and Palestinian media reported a series of strikes hitting roads and houses in the Shaboura neighbourhood in central Rafah shortly after the ICJ ruling was read out in The Hague.

Israel launched its assault on Gaza following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israeli communities on Oct. 7 that killed 1,200 people and saw more than 250 hostages seized, according to Israeli tallies. Since then, Israel's incursion has killed more than 35,000 people, according to Gaza health authorities.

BODIES RECOVERED

In northern Gaza, medics said at least five Palestinians were killed when houses were hit in Jabalia and more were believed to be trapped under rubble, but that the area could not be reached due to the intensity of the bombardment.

The Israeli military said it had recovered the bodies of three hostages taken into Gaza after they were killed on Oct. 7.

It said the bodies of Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum and Orion Hernandez Radoux were recovered overnight in a joint operation by the army and the intelligence services in Jabalia.

Israel says its twin goals in Gaza are bringing back the remaining hostages and destroying Hamas.

"We will not stop fighting for their freedom," said military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari in a televised statement announcing the recovery of the three bodies. "Every decent country would do the same."

Simultaneous Israeli assaults on the northern and southern edges of Gaza this month have caused a new exodus of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fleeing their homes, and have cut off the main access routes for aid, raising the risk of famine.

Israel had said its forces cleared Jabalia, the largest of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, months earlier in the war. But it returned there this month saying it needed to prevent Islamist militants regrouping, and the area has seen intense fighting in recent weeks.

Residents said on Friday tanks had destroyed the local market and bulldozers continued to raze shops and property in Jabalia's narrow alleys. Hamas's armed wing said its fighters had engaged three tanks there.

Tanks also advanced close to the nearby Kamal Adwan Hospital, where medics said Israeli fire had caused the suspension of operations at the last functioning medical facility in northern Gaza Strip.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi; Writing by Alex Richardson; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
By Debora Ely

PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil (Reuters) - Heavy rains once again pounded parts of Brazil's southernmost state on Thursday, ruining days-long clean-up efforts and flooding areas which had previously been untouched in Rio Grande do Sul's capital city of Porto Alegre.

Record flooding over the past month has killed 163 people and displaced around 600,000 more. Another 64 people are still missing.

Rains had lightened up to a drizzle over the past few days, with stores beginning to open and residents working to rebuild.

But the skies opened once more on Thursday morning, dumping heavy rains and flooding areas of Porto Alegre all over again.

One daycare in the neighborhood of Menino Deus, which had reopened on Wednesday after a week-long clean-up, was forced to evacuate as the rains rushed in.

"It all happened very quickly, (the flooding happened) much faster than last time," the director of the childcare center, who did not give her name, said.

In a span of 12 hours, parts of Porto Alegre received more rains than they typically do in a whole month, according to data from the national meteorological institute.

The flooding on Thursday also hit areas of Porto Alegre, such as in the south, which had previously gone unscathed.

Gimena Samuel had to call for her elderly parents to be rescued in the neighborhood of Cavalhada, where streets were flooded and cars unable to get through.

"There are a lot of elderly people here who can't get out by themselves," she said.

Earlier this week, the city of Porto Alegre had asked residents to leave their trash out on the sidewalk to be thrown away. However, the fresh rains carried the trash out onto the street, clogging drains and worsening the flooding.

Porto Alegre Mayor Sebastiao Melo told reporters the city was not surprised by the downpour, but that it was "excessively heavy."

Residents, however, complained about the lack of warning.

(Report by Debora Ely in Porto Alegre; Additional reporting by Diego Vara; Writing by Andre Romani; Editing by Kylie Madry and Michael Perry)
WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is embroiled in a second flag controversy in as many weeks, this time over a banner that in recent years has come to symbolize sympathies with the Christian nationalist movement and the false claim that the 2020 presidential election was stolen.

An Appeal to Heaven flag was flown last summer outside Alitos beach vacation home in New Jersey, according to The New York Times, which obtained several images showing it on different dates in July and September 2023. The Times previously reported that an upside down American flag  a sign of distress  had flown outside Alitos Alexandria, Virginia, home less than two weeks after the violent Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump.

Some of the rioters carried the inverted American flag or the Appeal to Heaven flag, which shows a green pine tree on a white field. The revelations have escalated concerns over Alitos impartiality and his ability to objectively decide cases currently before the court that relate to the Jan. 6 attackers and Trumps attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Alito has not commented on the flag at his summer home.

Here is the history and current symbolism of the Appeal to Heaven flag.

What Are Its Origins?

Ted Kaye, secretary for the North American Vexillological Association, which studies flags and their meaning, said the Appeal to Heaven banner dates to the Revolutionary War.

Six schooners outfitted by George Washington to intercept British vessels at sea flew the flag in 1775 as they sailed under his command. It became the maritime flag of Massachusetts in 1776 and remained so until 1971, he said.

According to Americanflags.com the pine tree on the flag symbolized strength and resilience in the New England colonies while the words Appeal to Heaven stemmed from the belief that God would deliver the colonists from tyranny.

FILE - An Appeal To Heaven flag is pictured as people gather at Independence Mall to support President Donald Trump as he visits the National Constitution Center to participate in the ABC News town hall, Sept. 15, 2020, in Philadelphia. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is embroiled in a second flag controversy, this time over the Appeal to Heaven flag, a banner that in recent years has come to symbolize Christian nationalism and the false claim that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. The flag was seen outside his New Jersey beach home last summer. (AP Photo/Michael Perez, File) via Associated Press

How Has Its Symbolism Changed?

There are a few different reasons people fly Appeal to Heaven flags today, said Jared Holt, a senior analyst at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, a London-based think tank that tracks online hate, disinformation and extremism.

Some fans of it identify with a patriot movement that obsesses over the Founding Fathers and the American Revolution, he said. Others adhere to a Christian nationalist worldview that seeks to elevate Christianity in public life.

Its not abundantly clear which of those reasons would be accurate in this situation, Holt said. But he called the display outside Alitos home alarming, saying those who do fly the flag are often advocating for more intolerant and restrictive forms of government aligned with a specific religious philosophy.

The Appeal to Heaven flag was among several banners carried by the Jan. 6 rioters, who also favored religious banners symbolizing the white Christian nationalist movement., the Confederate flag and the yellow Gadsden flag, with its rattlesnake and Dont Tread on Me message, said Bradley Onishi, author of Preparing for War: The Extremist History of White Christian Nationalism.

Thats the family, he said.

What About Mike Johnson?

House Speaker Mike Johnson displays the flag in the hallway outside his office next to the flag of his home state, Louisiana. He said he has flown it for as long as I can remember.

Johnson, a Republican, told The Associated Press he did not know the flag had come to represent the Stop the Steal movement.

Never heard that before, he said.

The speaker, who led one of Trumps legal challenges to the 2020 election, defended the flag and its continued use despite the modern-day symbolism around it.

I have always used that flag for as long as I can remember, because I was so enamored with the fact that Washington used it, Johnson said. The Appeal to Heaven flag is a critical, important part of American history. Its something that Ive always revered since Ive been a young man.

He added: People misuse our symbols all the time. It doesnt mean we dont use the symbols anymore.

Johnson said he had never flown the U.S. flag upside in distress, as Alito did, and he declined to assess the justices situation and whether raising the flags at his home was appropriate.

But he called the criticism of the Appeal to Heaven flag contrived.

Its nonsense, he said. Its part of our history. We dont remove statues and we dont cover up things that are so essential to who we are as a country.

Should Alito Recuse?

House Democratic Whip, Katherine Clark of Massachusetts said in a statement that the display of the Appeal to Heaven flag at an Alito home was not just another example of extremism that has overtaken conservatism. This is a threat to the rule of law and a serious breach of ethics, integrity and Justice Alitos oath of office.

She called for Alito to recuse himself from any cases related to Jan. 6 and the former president.

Theres a clear difference between the House speaker displaying the flag outside his office and a Supreme Court justice flying it and the upside down American flag outside his homes as the court is deciding cases involving issues those flags have come to symbolize, said Alicia Bannon director of the Judiciary Program at the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University.

Alitos actions dont just cross the line, she said. They take you out of the stadium and out of the parking lot.

Alito and the court declined to respond to requests for comment on how the Appeal to Heaven flag came to be flying and what it was intended to express.

Alito has said the upside down American flag was briefly flown by his wife during a dispute with neighbors and that he had no part in it.

Another Blow To The Courts Reputation

The Supreme Court already was under fire as it considers unprecedented cases against Trump and some of those charged for the attack on the Capitol.

An issue at the center of the controversy is that the high court does not have to adhere to the same ethics codes that guide other federal judges. The Supreme Court had long gone without its own code of ethics, but it adopted one in November 2023 in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices, including Alito. The code lacks a means of enforcement, however.

The federal code of judicial ethics does not universally prohibit judges from involvement in nonpartisan or religious activity off the bench. But it does say that a judge should not participate in extrajudicial activities that detract from the dignity of the judges office, interfere with the performance of the judges official duties or reflect adversely on the judges impartiality.

Jeremy Fogel, executive director of the Berkeley Judicial Institute at the University of California, Berkeley Law School, said the flag revelations lead to questions about whether Alito can be impartial in any case related to Jan. 6 or Trump.

Displaying those particular flags creates the appearance at least that the justice is signifying agreement with those viewpoints at a time when there are cases before the court where those viewpoints are relevant, he said.

A March AP/NORC poll found that only about one-quarter of Americans think the Supreme Court is doing a somewhat or very good job upholding democratic values. About 45% think its doing a somewhat or very bad job.

Tony Carrk, executive director of Accountable.US, a progressive watchdog organization, said the controversy shows that further steps are needed to put teeth into the courts ethics code.

Theres a reason why the confidence in credibility among the American people for the Supreme Court has plummeted to an all-time low, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Ali Swenson in New York contributed to this report.
Donald Trump's criminal hush money trial delivered a historic verdict this week, convicting the former president with 34 counts of falsifying business records while trying to cover up an effort to illegally influence the 2016 election.

Trump faces a maximum of four years in prison for each count. His sentencing is on July 11.

At the center of the charges are payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, to buy her silence ahead of the 2016 election about an affair she purportedly had with Trump. Hush money arrangements by themselves are not illegal, so prosecutors needed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Trump was guilty of maintaining or causing the falsification of business records, with the intent to cover up another crime, such as violating tax and campaign finance laws.

In total, there were 20 days of testimony, during which 20 witnesses were called by the prosecution, while two were called by the defense, and over 200 pieces of evidence were presented. Trump did not testify in his defense.

Below are some of the most important pieces of evidence laid out in the prosecutions case.

 August 2015: The alleged scheme is hatched

Trump officially announced his presidential run in June 2015. Two months later, Trump and Michael Cohen, Trumps former lawyer, met at Trump Tower with David Pecker, then CEO of National Enquirer publisher American Media Inc (AMI). It was at this August 2015 meeting when Trump, Cohen and Pecker struck an agreement and conspired to influence the 2016 presidential election, prosecutors alleged during opening arguments, per court documents.

Pecker and Cohen testified that the meeting was when Pecker said he would act as the eyes and ears of Trumps campaign to quash any negative stories about the then-presidential candidate. Pecker also said he would notify Cohen if anything surfaced. Pecker said prior to the meeting, he never previously bought stories to specifically kill them for Trump.

But thats exactly what Pecker did twice for the 2016 Trump campaign following the August 2015 meeting, according to prosecutors. AMI paid $30,000 for the rights to a story, which turned out to be false, from a former Trump Tower doorman regarding information that Trump allegedly had a child out of wedlock.

Three months before the 2016 election, AMI also paid $150,000 for the rights to Playboy model Karen McDougals story, in which she alleges that she had a months-long affair with Trump, which Trump denies. Pecker agreed to the McDougal deal with the understanding that Trump would pay him back.

[Pecker] wanted the $150,000 back because it was too much money for him to hide from the CEO of the parent company, Cohen testified. And he had also just laid out $30,000 previously. So he was putting pressure on me to speak to Mr. Trump to get the money back, Cohen told jurors.

People's exhibit 156, page 1 shows the 2016 agreement between AMI and Playboy model Karen McDougal (Manhattan district attorney's office)

 Sept. 6, 2016: Cohen secretly records a conversation with Trump about the McDougal payment

Weeks after AMI fronted the $150,000 for the rights to McDougals story, Pecker expressed his frustration to Cohen that he hadnt been paid back yet. Cohen testified that he used his phone to secretly record a conversation he had with Trump on Sept. 6, 2016, at Trump Tower to later play for Pecker to show that Trump had intentions of paying him back and wanted him to remain loyal.

On the recording, Cohen is heard telling Trump about a shell company he created to facilitate the McDougal payment, with the purpose of removing Trumps association with the deal. Cohen also says on the recording he had spoken to Allen Weisselberg, the Trump Organizations chief financial officer, about how to set the whole thing up with funding.

So, what do we got to pay for this? 150?" Trump can be heard asking Cohen in the recording, which the prosecution says refers to the $150,000 payment AMI made to McDougal.

The prosecution wants to show the jury that Trump knew about the plan and the McDougal hush money payment in an effort to suppress the negative story about him weeks before the 2016 election.

 The October 2016 surprise and fallout

On Oct. 7, 2016, the Washington Post published the infamous Access Hollywood tape. It was a video from 2005 that revealed Trump talking on a hot mic, bragging about his ability to sexually assault women. With a month to go before the 2016 election, Trumps campaign went into panic mode after the tape was released, prosecutors allege. In a statement, Trump chalked the tape up to locker room banter. Judge Juan Merchan ruled that the tape would not be played for jurors during the trial, but allowed prosecutors to enter into evidence of what Trump said on the recording.

The defendant and his campaign staff were deeply concerned that the tape would irreparably damage his viability as a candidate and reduce his standing with female voters in particular, the prosecution said during opening arguments, according to court documents.

Former Trump aide Hope Hicks was one of the witnesses called by the prosecution who testified that the tape was a damaging development, that was just pulling us backwards in a way that was going to be hard to overcome.

 Cue Stormy Daniels

The very next day, Danielss representative told the National Enquirer that she was willing to make on-the-record statements confirming a sexual encounter with Trump, which Trump has since denied. Cohen got word of this and told Trump, who was adamant about not letting the story get out.

Cohen testified, [Trump] was polling very poorly with women, and this, coupled with the previous Access Hollywood tape, he just stated, This is a disaster, and get control over it.

Prosecutors showed a clip of Trump at a campaign rally on Oct. 14, 2016, days after the Access Hollywood tape was published  and at a time when a few women were coming forward with allegations that Trump sexually assaulted them. Trump has denied the allegations.

These are all horrible lies, all fabrications, Trump told supporters at the rally. And we cant let them change the most important election in our lifetime. If 5% of the people think its true, and maybe 10%we dont win.

Prosecutors argue that his remarks show his urgent motivation to bury Danielss story before the election.

 October 2016: The Stormy Daniels hush money deal

Cohen negotiated a $130,000 deal with Danielss lawyer, Keith Davidson, to buy the rights to her alleged story to keep her quiet  the hush money payment at the center of the trial.

Cohen testified that during the negotiation process, Trump told him to delay the payment. What he had said to me is: What I want you to do is just push it out as long as you can. Just get past the election, because if I win, it has no relevance, I will be president. If I lose, I don't even care.

Cropped image of People's exhibit 63, page 1 shows an email from Keith Davidson to Michael Cohen about the Stormy Daniels hush money agreement. (Manhattan district attorney's office)

Davidson testified he was growing impatient with Cohen, who seemed to be stalling on the deal, and threatened to back out. Trump ultimately agreed to the payout, but allegedly didnt want to make the payment himself, so he asked Cohen and Weisselberg to find a way to make the payment.

Would Pecker front the money for a third catch and kill payment for Trump? Not a chance, Pecker testified. We already paid $30,000 to the doorman, we paid $150,000 to Karen McDougal, and I am not a bank. I am not paying out any further disbursements among us, Pecker said.

Cohen ended up fronting the $130,000 from his own pockets, taking out a home equity line of credit without telling his wife.

 Oct. 26, 2016: Cohens phone calls to Trump

On Oct. 26, 2016, Cohen set up a bank account in the name of a shell company he created, Essential Consultants LLC, in order to distance Trump from any hush money payments. Before Cohen set up the bank account, he called Trump twice that morning, according to call logs submitted as evidence by prosecutors.

Cropped image of People's exhibit 349, page 2 shows Michael Cohen placed two calls to Trump on the morning of Oct. 26, 2016. (Manhattan district attorney's office)

Cohen testified, I wanted to ensure that, once again, he approved what I was doing because I required approval from him on all of this. That's what the sum and substance of the conversation was, laying out exactly what was going to happen, what was being done in order to ensure the story didn't get sold to Daily Mail or somebody else.

Prosecutors want to show the jury that Trump knew about the hush money being transferred to Danielss lawyer.

 Late October 2016: A done deal

On Oct. 27, 2016, Cohen wired a $130,000 payment to Daniels's lawyer using his shell corporation.

People's exhibit 379, page 1 shows a bank statement reflecting the hush money payment transfer from Michael Cohen to Stormy Daniels's lawyer. (Manhattan district attorney's office)

Once the wire transfer was received, Daniels signed the confidential settlement agreement between David Dennison and Peggy Peterson, pseudonyms that Davidson testified he created for Trump and Daniels. The statement and the pseudonyms speak to the prosecutions claim that Trump sought to keep the payment to Daniels a secret.

People's exhibit 379, page 17 shows the side letter agreement revealing the pseudonyms David Dennison and Peggy Peterson. (Manhattan district attorney's office)

 Follow the paper trail

After Trump was elected president in 2016, Cohen wanted to get reimbursed for fronting the $130,000 hush money to Daniels.

Cohen testified that days before Trumps 2017 inauguration, he met with Trump and Weisselberg at Trump Tower to lay out a repayment plan, ultimately deciding that he would be repaid a total of $420,000, including the $130,000 hush money reimbursement and a bonus, with the total grossed up to include taxes, since Cohen would be claiming the money as income, and not a reimbursement. They agreed that the payments would be split into 12 monthly payments of $35,000. Weisselberg's handwritten calculations are on the lower left of Cohen's bank statement below.

People's exhibit 35 shows Allen Weisselberg's handwritten notes (lower left) calculating Michael Cohen's reimbursement payment. (Manhattan district attorney's office)

[Trump] approved it, and he also said, 'This is going to be one heck of a ride in D.C., Cohen testified of the January 2017 meeting.

Former Trump Organization controller Jeffrey McConney, the prosecutions witness, testified that he had Cohen submit invoices to the Trump Organization in order to get paid. Cohen indicated that the $35,000 invoices were pursuant to a legal retainer agreement.

But Cohen testified there was never any legal retainer agreement. Heres where the falsification of 34 documents comes into play.

People's exhibit 350 shows a summary of the 34 documents allegedly falsified. (Manhattan district attorney's office)

Eleven of the felony counts relate to the 11 invoices Cohen sent to be reimbursed by the Trump Organization. Then there were 12 counts related to falsified ledger entries that classified the payments as legal services. Then there are 11 checks, nine of which were allegedly signed by Trump himself, and were scanned and maintained in the Trump Organizations data system before being mailed out.

Two of the prosecutions witnesses  Deborah Tarasoff, a former accountant at the Trump Organization, and Madeleine Westerhout, a former White House aide  both testified that Trump would sign his own checks.

People's exhibit 10 shows a check allegedly signed by Trump for an April 2017 submitted by Michael Cohen. (Manhattan district attorney's office)
Buckingham Palace Has Shared That All Members Of The Royal Family Are Canceling Most Public Engagements  Here's Why

LONDON (AP)  King Charles wont be out and about much over the next six weeks  and its not because of his ongoing cancer treatments.

Shortly after U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called an early parliamentary election for July 4, Buckingham Palace said that all members of the royal family were canceling most public engagements until after the vote to avoid doing anything that might divert attention from the campaign.

That announcement is just one of the ways that Charles will seek to play his part as a unifying head of state during the election, without violating a constitutional ban on interfering in politics. While the kings role in government is largely ceremonial, its bound up by traditions that embody the way royal powers were gradually transferred to Parliament over the last 800 years.

Heres a look at the monarchs role in the run up to the election, including a few dos and donts.

Did Charles Play Any Role In Calling The Election?

via Associated Press

The decision to call an election was entirely Sunaks. But before he could do so, the king had to grant permission to dissolve Parliament early.

Technically, the king still has the power to refuse a dissolution request if he believes an election would be detrimental to the nation. But no prime minister in modern times has been refused permission to dissolve Parliament.

Ignoring that precedent would expose the monarch to allegations of political interference of an undemocratic nature, even if the intention of the refusal was to preserve the good functioning of democracy, according to the Institute for Government, an independent think tank.

The last time a British monarch unilaterally brought down a government that had a majority in the House of Commons was in November 1834, when King William IV dismissed Lord Melbourne because of concerns about radical reforms supported by some members of his administration. But Robert Peel, the kings choice as successor, was unable to command a majority in Parliament, and Melbourne returned to office five months later.

What's Next For The King?

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

The current session of Parliament will be prorogued, or ended, on Friday based on an order that Charles approved during a meeting of the Privy Council on Thursday at Buckingham Palace.

The king wont attend the formal end of the session, a ceremonial affair where the speaker of the House of Commons and other members of Parliament will troop into the House of Lords to hear a speech written by the government.

What About Those Public Appearances?

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

The royal family is barred by law and tradition from interfering in politics at any time, but ensuring that those rules are strictly followed is even more important during an election.

That means the royals cant campaign for candidates, endorse policies, or even let their political preferences be known.

Buckingham Palace spelled it out soon after Sunaks announcement, announcing that members of the royal family would postpone all engagements that may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign.

That meant the king on Friday ditched trips to a Bentley car factory and a community center helping people who are struggling financially.

What's A Monarch To Do?

Pool / Getty Images

Well, some things are above reproach.

The king and queen still plan to attend ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day on June 6.

Other engagements will be examined on a case-by-case basis, the palace said.

Why Does This Matter?

Wpa Pool / Getty Images

One of the modern monarchys primary roles is to provide a unifying figurehead who is seen as above politics and can provide a sense of stability in difficult times.

This is the first general election of Charles reign. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, oversaw 21 during her 70 years on the throne.

George Gross, a royal expert at Kings College London, said elections are by definition moments of turbulence in which people look to the monarchy for continuity.

There is  a power vacuum in political terms. Power is now handed back to the British people, and they will review the offering over the next six weeks, Gross said. So what that means, though, is that the head of state has a new role. Or rather, (the) key role of stability and continuity comes to the fore. Now, (the royals) cannot be political in any way.This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
This high schooler won $10,000 because he saw a mysterious outbreak killing sea turtles in his Hawaii hometown and decided to do something about it

Maddux Alexander Springer was free diving in Hawaii when he noticed green sea turtles with huge tumors.

He spent 2.5 years researching the disease and discovered its likely root cause, plus a solution.

He won a top award at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, securing $10,000 for college.

Maddux Alexander Springer spent his pandemic free time in Oahu's blue waters.

Every day the high schooler left the sea horses and eels and octopuses in his at-home fish tanks, walked a short distance to Kaneohe Bay, and went free diving.

"It's almost like you're an alien," Springer, who is now 18, told Business Insider. "You're just there by yourself in this environment that you don't really belong in."

Sometimes, though, it seemed like he was diving through a graveyard. He kept seeing green sea turtles with cauliflower-like tumors.

"They were just gross masses that were anywhere from the size of a penny to the size of a football. And it would just encapsulate the green sea turtles," he said. "They're on their eyes, their skin, their flippers, everywhere. And there would just be turtles on the bottom of the ocean just dying there with these tumors."

A green sea turtle afflicted with fibropapillomatosis at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida in the Florida Keys. Pablo Cozzaglio/AFP via Getty Images

He started scouring the internet for an answer. The turtles had a disease called fibropapillomatosis, or FP for short. It affects up to 97% of all sea turtles, but according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, scientists don't fully understand what causes the disease to spread.

That disappointing Google search launched Springer into a two-and-a-half year investigation. Green sea turtles are crucial for the health of reefs worldwide, as they eat algae that would otherwise suffocate the coral. Ultimately, FP is a threat to coral reefs everywhere, which are already stressed by rising ocean temperatures and acidity.

Springer may have gotten to the root of the disease's spread in Oahu. Even better, he found a clear solution.

Last week he won the $10,000 Peggy Scripps Award for Science Communication for his work, which he presented at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair along with over a thousand students. The money is for post-secondary education, but he hopes the prize will also bring attention to FP and the plight of sea turtles.

"It was an incredible feeling, just having my research validated," he said. "It's been a very long time since I have felt like some change can be made from my research."

Solving a biological mystery

A green sea turtle swims off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii. Hugh Gentry/Reuters

At the beginning of his investigation, Springer applied for permits that would allow him to biopsy the turtles' tumors. But he was denied.

Determined not to give up, he set out to find a non-invasive way to conduct his research. He donned his diving gear and set up motion-sensing underwater cameras to snap photos of green sea turtles.

The tumors caused by FP can only form internally if they've already formed externally, so these pictures gave him a census of all the FP-infected turtles in Kaneohe Bay. The data confirmed his previous observations  FP was highly prevalent.

But the herpesvirus that causes FP must be activated by an external factor before it can produce those tumors. Previous biopsies of green sea turtle tumors had shown that they contained high levels of the amino acid arginine. Maybe that was the trigger, but where would the turtles get so much arginine?

Algae is a sea turtle's main food source, and they're not picky eaters. They'll eat whatever type is available. Through a photo survey, Springer found that most of the algae in Kaneohe Bay is invasive.

Invasive algae smothering a coral reef in Kaneohe Bay. State of Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources

This invasive algae is extremely good at absorbing sewage. In fact, it absorbs 11 times more than native algae and converts the wastewater's rich nitrogen into arginine, which the algae stores in its tissues, Springer said.

Indeed, Oahu had a likely source of sewage entering the ocean.

"In Kaneohe Bay, and in Hawaii overall, cesspools are a huge problem," Springer said.

Cesspools are pits dug beneath houses to collect wastewater. They have no barriers around them, and thus contaminated water leeches into Hawaii's porous, volcanic soil. During high tide, that wastewater gets pulled into the ocean.

400 hours of diving for algae

A free diver swims to the bottom of the ocean. Cavan Images/Getty Images

Springer had his suspicions, but he needed to test them out.

So he spent his weekends and evenings after school collecting algae samples, drying them, and crushing them into a powder. Then, he sent them off to a lab to run through a mass spectrometer, a machine that reveals the elements in a substance.

He was looking for a specific isotope of nitrogen that's associated with human wastewater, and he found it. That confirmed that the algae was, in fact, absorbing wastewater.

The sea-turtle food was rich in FP-causing arginine.

Sea turtles eat all types of algae, whether it's native or invasive. This invasive algae species, Gracilaria salicornia, has been found in more than half of all algae samples in turtle stomachs, according to Springer. Narrissa Spies/Wikimedia Commons

After two and a half years and 400 hours of diving, Springer found a link between rampant FP in Kaneohe Bay and wastewater pollution.

Students' research at ISEF is not held to the peer-review standard that studies published in scientific journals like Nature must meet. More research is needed to confirm the causal link Springer may have discovered.

"I believe this study shows that there is a significant relationship between wastewater output and this disease," Springer said. Without intervention, he fears that this entire marine ecosystem will be devastated.

Saving Hawaii's sea turtles

Roughly 88,000 homes in Hawaii have cesspools instead of septic tanks, which allows wastewater to pollute marine ecosystems. Mint Images/Getty Images

In total, there are 88,000 cesspools in Hawaii, and 11,000 on Oahu alone, according to Hawaii's Department of Health.

Springer says that the solution is to get rid of these cesspools and divert residential wastewater to treatment facilities. That would keep this contaminated water from polluting Hawaii's oceans and making sea turtles sick.

Building wastewater treatment facilities and the infrastructure needed to transport sewage to them would be expensive, Springer admitted. But based on his research, he thinks this is an issue that requires urgent attention.

"If we continue to go at this rate, and if we continue to just release raw wastewater into the bay, the environmental devastation is going to be unparalleled," he said.

"This isn't just about turtles," Springer said. Wastewater pollution threatens the entire marine ecosystems in Hawaii. Mitchell Pettigrew/Getty Images

But it's not just cost that stands in the way. In 2017, Hawaii's legislature passed Act 125, which protects the state from having to remove cesspools until 2050. To Springer, that's not nearly soon enough.

"Hawaii just really needs to step up, put the money down. I know it'll be expensive, but in the end it'll be worth it because 2050 is an unacceptable date, and it needs to happen now or unforeseen environmental devastation will occur," he said.

Currently, the state legislature is considering a bill that would begin imposing "pollution fees" on homeowners who have cesspools by 2025. That money would funnel into a new fund for mitigating the effects of cesspools, Honolulu Civil Beat reports.

Springer plans to continue studying marine life and the issues that threaten them as a marine biology major at the University of Oregon. Maddux Alexander Springer / ISEF

It may be a step in the right direction, but Springer hopes that his research will help draw more attention to the urgency of this issue.

"I just really want to raise awareness that this is an issue, and that the only way that this can be solved is by government intervention," he said.

Springer has plans to further his scientific career at Oregon State University, where he'll pursue a bachelor's degree in marine biology.

"I'm excited to explore somewhere new, and do more research on new problems that exist because research is problem-driven," he said. "I feel like it's going to be a fun way to get more into research and delve deeper into the issues that fundamentally control our environment and run our ecosystem."

Read the original article on Business Insider
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A speaker at Donald Trumps rally in the Bronx Thursday cited his Hispanic heritage while apologizing to the indicted Republican presidential candidate for the behavior of the judge in his criminal trial, Juan Merchanwho also happens to be Hispanic.

At one point during his remarks, Trump welcomed to the stage former New York City Councilman Ruben Diaz, who on paper is a member of the Democratic Party but opposes abortion and same-sex marriage, among a number of other unorthodox positions. Diaz, who would go on to endorse Trump, mentioned the hush-money trial underway in Manhattan, where closing arguments are set for early next week, andlike Trump himself has often doneattacked Merchan.

I am here for a variety of reasons, but I want to tell you first, that as a Puerto Rican, as a Hispanic, I want to apologize to you for the conduct of Judge Juan Merchan, Diaz said. As a Hispanic, I want to apologize. He has been used to destroy you, but we know better than that.

Those remarks came just a few days after Trump made what appeared to be discriminatory comments about Merchan based on his country of birth, Colombia.

The judge hates Donald Trump, he said Tuesday outside the courtroom. Just take a look. Take a look at him. Take a look at where he comes from. He cant stand Donald Trump. Hes doing everything in his power.

A gag order imposed by Judge Merchanwhich Trump has violated nine timesbars him from talking about witnesses, potential witnesses, jurors, prosecutors, court staff and their families, but not Merchan himself or Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Trump, for his part, has taken full advantage of the carveout.

The Judge assigned to my Witch Hunt Case, a Case that has NEVER BEEN CHARGED BEFORE, HATES ME, he complained in a Truth Social post last March.

Merchan also presided over the tax fraud trials of two Trump Organization companies, and sentenced the organizations former CFO, Allen Weisselberg, to jail at Rikers Island after he pleaded guilty to tax evasion.

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West Palm Beach's historic Roosevelt High School campus will not be home to a state African American history museum after all.

On Tuesday, a state task force voted to recommend the museum be created in St. Johns County, which is in the northeast part of the state and includes St. Augustine. Supporters envision a museum that covers the size of a city block, with 100,000 square feet of exhibition space across 10 halls.

In March, Palm Beach County leaders submitted an application for the museum to be located on Roosevelt's campus off Tamarind Avenue in West Palm Beach.

Alumni of the school were outraged by the application, which they said was submitted without their knowledge or consultation and threatened the renovation projects planned for the campus. Roosevelt High opened as one of the first all-Black high schools in the county in 1950 and closed to students in 1970. It has a fervent alumni base. The campus has fallen into disrepair since it closed.

Pieces of the ceiling fall at the Roosevelt Full Service Center on Tamarind Avenue in West Palm Beach. The school campus, formerly a historic high school for Black students, is slated for more than $50 million in renovations.

Cora Sudstill Perry, president of the Roosevelt alumni association, held a news conference on March 11 to oppose the application for the state Black history museum.

"Any Black history museum under the auspices of the Florida Legislature and Governor which have enacted the 'Stop WOKE Act,' prohibiting and making illegal classroom instruction that would cause anyone to feel guilt, anguish, or any form of psychological distress due to their race, color, sex or national origin, is a Black Museum without Black history," according to the news release from Perry and other alumni.

At the news conference, Perry traded verbal spars with state Sen. Bobby Powell, D-West Palm Beach, who introduced the 2023 legislation that helped establish the task force in charge of creating museum and who now sits on the committee.

More from the press conference: Historic school's alumni fighting bid for Florida Black history museum in West Palm. Why?

She said she and other groups behind the plan to build the local Black history museum "weren't even contacted" by Powell and the county leaders who pitched the task force.

For his part, Powell said he was blindsided by the group's concerns.

It's not entirely clear when or why Palm Beach County dropped out of the running for the museum. Twelve communities across the state were initial contenders for the project, and county leaders made the pitch on behalf of Palm Beach County on Feb. 19. County Administrator Verdenia Baker called Roosevelt a "shovel-ready" site for the museum.

But at the task force's March 25 meeting, Palm Beach County was not among the final eight options for the project.

Cora Perry, president of the Roosevelt High School alumni association, explains why her group opposes a state Black history museum at the site.

Roosevelt already slated for local Black history museum, public meeting areas

Poor communication has been a hallmark of the renovation project for Roosevelt High: Alumni have resented not knowing the latest updates from either the school district or county officials, and Lia Gaines, who organized the March news conference, said many heard of the county's pitch through media coverage.

"We have no faith in this museum" if it's created by the state, Gaines said in March. "We feel this process has been co-opted."

Gaines specifically criticized the county's pitch for a museum because the planned renovations at Roosevelt already include a Black history museum that focuses on Palm Beach County, along with public meeting spaces and classrooms.

A speaker addresses Superintendent Mike Burke and school board member Edwin Ferguson on Wednesday, Aug. 25 at a meeting regarding historic Roosevelt High School in West Palm Beach.

But even those plans have materialized without the knowledge of some community members and school alumni.

Last August, Palm Beach County School Superintendent Mike Burke and Chief Operating Officer Joe Sanches said publicly that the district didn't have the money to build the planned Black history museum and resource library. They said the community would have to find donors to get the project off the ground.

But weeks later, school board members quietly approved $30 million for Roosevelt's museum and renovations in their annual budget. They didn't appear to tout it as a victory, save for a video posted to Facebook by school board member Edwin Ferguson.

Members of the Florida Museum of Black History Task Force hear a presentation from Palm Beach County officials aiming to build a statewide Black history museum at historic Roosevelt High School's campus in West Palm Beach.

Two weeks after the school board approved the money, the statewide task force on the museum began to look for a place to put it.

Months later, the promise of money from the school district became part of a pitch to put the museum at Roosevelt.

"(The) funding is already in place, zoning is already in place, and we would welcome the opportunity to have the museum located right in West Palm Beach," West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James told the statewide task force Feb. 19.

Now St. Johns County is likely to welcome the museum.

What's next for Florida Black history museum?

In the past month, St. Johns County and Eatonville, located north of Orlando, had emerged as the two most likely sites for the museum.

The bill that created the museum calls for it to have a sustainable business plan. Eatonville is home to the oldest incorporated Black community in the U.S. and is next door to Orlando, which attracts 74 million tourists annually.

We can easily pull off a half-million of those tourists that will come to the museum, and they would pay $10. We have a plan. We have a vision, said state Rep. Bruce Antone, D-Orlando, who sponsored the House measure to create the museum.

Proposed Florida Black History Museum

St. Johns supporters countered that Black American history began in St. Augustine, that the city figured prominently in passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and that they had lined up support of nine area nonprofits, including the Jaguars Foundation, the PGA Tour, the YMCA of North Florida, three historic Black colleges and universities, and neighboring Nassau, Duval, Clay and Flagler counties.

Thats a testament to cooperation and a regional approach. It is not a St. Johns County museum. It is a hub-and-spoke regional asset that will benefit not only northeast Florida but the entire state, said Sarah Arnold, chair of the St. Johns County Commission.

The decision to select St. Johns came after analysis of the three sites by Andrew Chin, dean of the Florida A&M University School of Architecture & Engineering Technology.

The sites were evaluated on pedestrian access as well as parking, transportation infrastructure, lot size and appropriate land use.

Chin told the committee proposed plans for a Florida museum are consistent with African American museums in Baltimore, Detroit and Charleston, South Carolina.

Now, planners will conduct a feasibility study for the St. Johns site. The task force is required to submit its site recommendations and plans for museum construction to the governor, Florida House speaker and Florida Senate president by July 1.

Katherine Kokal is a journalist covering education at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at kkokal@pbpost.com. Help support our work; subscribe today!

James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com. Follow on him Twitter: @CallTallahassee

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Historic Roosevelt High not chosen for Florida Black history museum
When she was a teenager, UW-Milwaukee professor Chia Youyee Vang remembers how her mother and aunt wrapped a long, purple cloth into a turban around her head. Then decorated with a black-and-white striped ribbon, it was one piece of the elaborate traditional clothing Vang would wear to celebrate the Hmong New Year.

Today, the phuam txoo suab is more hat than headwrap. Its often sold pre-wrapped, and it might be embroidered with silver coins or shiny beads. At annual New Year celebrations at Wisconsin State Fair Park, its a common headpiece for girls and women.

The headwraps evolution parallels Milwaukees Hmong community in some ways. Todays young generation fuses American culture with the traditions of their parents and grandparents, who fled Laos as refugees in the 1970s and 80s.

The headwraps evolution parallels Milwaukees Hmong community in some ways. Todays young generation fuses American culture with the traditions of their parents and grandparents, who fled Laos as refugees in the 1970s and 80s.

Older immigrants worry about language and culture fading. But they also see their descendants blossoming: earning degrees, running businesses and buying homes in neighborhoods across the area.

Milwaukee County is home to about 13,000 Hmong, census data shows. Thats nearly one-third of all Asian residents in the county.

Like the Germans, Poles and Italians before them, the Hmong have made their mark on Milwaukee. The ways theyll express and share their traditions with the city will only become more intricate as their roots deepen.

See the rest of Milwaukee's 100 objects

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: The Hmong headwrap is a key piece of Milwaukee's evolving community
Gov. Eric Holcomb, right, speaks with Eli Lilly and Company Chair and CEO David A. Ricks, middle, Friday at an economic summit event. Lilly announced an additional $5.3 billion investment in the Lebanon LEAP district. (Photo courtesy governor's office)

Gov. Eric Holcomb joined Eli Lilly and company Chair and CEO David A. Ricks Friday to announce Lillys plans to more than double its investment at the LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon.

The new $5.3 billion expansion brings Lillys total LEAP investment to $9 billion and will enhance the companys capacity to manufacture active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) for its latest type 2 diabetes and obesity medicines, a news release said.

Lilly continues to play a transformational role in shaping Indianas opportunity economy, and I couldnt be more proud about their pole position leadership in developing the LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon, Indiana. Lilly has long been driving global innovation and economic growth that will be felt for decades here at home, Holcomb said. As an international company, headquartered in Indiana, Lilly had a world of options to consider before making this investment, and choosing Indiana once again reinforces the incredible environment weve cultivated and the talented workforce we have to carry Lillys success forward. I cant wait to see the incredible benefits this investment leads to for patients around the world, knowing they were made in Indiana.

In addition to the new, multi-billion-dollar investment, Lilly also committed to create another 200 new, full-time jobs for highly skilled workers, such as engineers, scientists, operating personnel and lab technicians, bringing the companys total planned new jobs at LEAP to 900.

Todays announcement tops the largest manufacturing investment in our companys history and, we believe, represents the single largest investment in synthetic medicine API manufacturing in U.S. history, said Ricks. This multi-site campus will make our latest medicines, support pipeline growth and leverage the latest technology and automation for maximum efficiency, safety and quality control. Importantly, we are investing in our home state of Indiana, creating high-wage, advanced manufacturing, engineering and science jobs for hundreds of current and future Hoosier families.

The LEAP district in Lebanon has been fraught with controversy as the Indiana Economic Development Corporation has bought up thousands of acres of land at prices exceeding assessed value. A plan to possibly pipe in millions of gallons of water from Tippecanoe County also stirred controversy. So far, Lilly remains the only company publicly committed to LEAP.

Since breaking ground at LEAP in April 2023, Lilly has transformed a significant portion of its 600 acres at the site into an active construction site and expects to begin making medicines there in late 2026.

The state has agreed to assist in developing a robust workforce ecosystem of qualified manufacturing talent by providing the land and helping to raise capital for a new workforce training center that will be part of the larger LEAP industrial development. The new training center will have added impact by aligning with Lillys previously announced financial support for scholarship and training programs with Purdue University and Ivy Tech Community College, as well as the BioCrossroads-led training center at 16 Tech  part of Indianas recent Tech Hub designation.

We are excited about Eli Lilly and Companys plan to expand their investment in Lebanon, reinforcing their role as a key community partner in driving future innovation and economic prosperity, said Lebanon Mayor Matt Gentry. Their investment underscores our shared commitment to creating greater opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for our residents and community.

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Based on the companys plans to create 200 additional new jobs at their project site in LEAP, the IEDC committed an additional investment in Lilly of up to $500,000 in the form of incentive-based training grants. The IEDC also committed an additional investment of up to $20 million in redevelopment tax credits and $15 million in road infrastructure improvements based on the companys announced plans to invest an additional $5.3 billion.

With a total estimated capital investment of $9.7 billion and the hiring of 900 high-wage positions by Lilly at their LEAP site, the IEDC also revised its Innovation Development District award structure to accommodate a 30-year benefit period with an estimated value of $1.2 billion in tax rebates and the flexibility for the project to further grow. All incentives remain subject to final IEDC Board of Directors and state of Indiana required approvals and contracting.

The post Holcomb, Eli Lilly announce additional $5.3 billion investment in LEAP appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
The hospital where a group of Singapore Airlines passengers are being treated for injuries caused when their flight encountered severe turbulence has detailed the horrific extent of those injuries.

In a press conference and on Facebook, the Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital confirmed 22 passengers suffered spine and spinal cord injuries, while six have skull and brain injuries and another 13 suffered bone, muscle orother injuries. A 73-year-old British man died on Singapore Airlines flight SQ321, which was flying from London to Singapore on May 21 when the airplane hit bad weather and was diverted to Bangkok. In a statement, Singapore Airlines said two crew were among the injured.

In total, 211 passengers and 18 crew were on the flight when it descended 6,000 feet in approximately three minutes. A cause for the turbulence has yet to be determined. Passengers told the BBC of the moments when the plane suddenly dropped, and those who werent wearing their seatbelts launched immediately into the ceiling.

Some of the patients sustained multiple injuries, hospital director Adinun Kittiratanapaibool said at a news conference Thursday, adding it was too early to tell whether the injuries were permanent or not. None of those in ICU were in life-threatening condition, he said.

Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital said 40 people aboard the Singapore Airlines flight were still receiving medical treatment, with 22 people having sustained spinal injuries and 20 remaining in intensive carehttps://t.co/Af2ee0kQlR pic.twitter.com/Glw046iKrQ  Reuters (@Reuters) May 23, 2024

As of the afternoon of May 23, the total number of patients still hospitalized was 41. Most of those injured passengers are British (10), followed by nine Australians, seven Malaysians, and four Filipinos. Americans injured count for two while others included New Zealanders, Burmese, Irish and Icelandic.

Twenty-two of the injured are women and 19 male, the hospital added.

Initially, 85 passengers were transferred to various hospitals for treatment while another 19 patients received treatment at Samitivej Suvarnabhumi Medical Clinic, bringing the total number of patients to 104.

Passengers have detailed the terrifying experience, including Andrew Davies, who told CNN Wednesday that hell broke loose as the flight encountered turbulence.

The plane just felt like it had dropped. It probably only lasted a few seconds, but I remember vividly seeing shoes and iPads and iPhones and cushions and blankets and cookware and plates and cups flying through the air and crashing into the ceiling, he said. The gentleman next to me had a cup of coffee which went straight all over me and up to the ceiling.

Man on Deadly Singapore Airlines Flight Shares the Moment All Hell Broke Loose

Singapore Airlines said it is in contact with all the passengers and crew members who are still in Bangkok, and that its CEO, Goh Choon Phong, has been meeting the affected passengers, crew, their family members and loved ones in Bangkok today to personally offer his support and to understand their concerns.

Phong said in a statement: The well-being of our passengers and crew members remains our priority. I have given them my personal assurance that we will take care of them during this difficult time. Our staff volunteers are here to provide each passenger with updates and the necessary assistance. We have also facilitated the travel of their family members and loved ones to Bangkok and ensured that they are taken care of too.

On behalf of Singapore Airlines, I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone in Singapore, Thailand, and around the world, who have assisted us during this difficult time. This includes Singapore Changi Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport, as well as our other aviation partners. I would also like to especially thank the staff at Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, and Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, who have been caring tirelessly for our passengers and crew.

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Brian Higgins, an ATF agent who was a friend of Brian Albert, a Boston police officer who owned the home in Canton where fellow officer John OKeefe was found dead in the snow in January 2022, testified Friday about flirtatious text messages he exchanged with Karen Read, the woman charged in the death of OKeefe.

WATCH LIVE: Streaming coverage of Fridays witness testimony

Higgins, who was out with a group of people drinking at Canton bars with Read and OKeefe on the night of death, had a romantic interest in Read, according to her defense team. The defense has also alleged that Higgins coaxed OKeefe to the Albert house and later destroyed his phone.

Higgins was also the first person Albert called after learning of OKeefes death but cell phone data presented as evidence showed Albert also called Higgins at 2:22 a.m. hours before OKeefes body was found. Albert said he inadvertently made that call to Higgins during an intimate situation with his wife.

After the night out drinking at several bars, prosecutors say Read dropped OKeefe off at a party at the Albert familys home at 34 Fairview Road in Canton just after midnight and intentionally backed over him with her SUV in January 2022. Its alleged that she drove away and returned hours later to find him in a snowbank.

The defenses theory is that OKeefe was actually beaten up inside the Albert home and dragged outside in a snowstorm and that the Albert family is at the center of an effort to frame Read.

Read, 44, of Mansfield, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of second-degree murder in OKeefes death.

Prosecutors say Read and Higgins exchanged many romantic text messages in the weeks before OKeefes death. Higgins was asked to read them in court on Friday.

In one of the messages shared in court, Read texted Higgins, Youre, hot. Are you serious or messing with me? Higgins replied. No, Im serious, Read wrote. Feeling is mutual. Is that bad? How long have you thought that? Higgins asked.

Higgins also told the court that he was leaving OKeefes house one day when Read planted a kiss on me. Not like a friend. Higgins added that he interpreted it as a romantic kiss.

In another exchange of messages, Read told Higgins, Im glad you came over tonight.

Read also revealed in texts with Higgins that her relationship with OKeefe had deteriorated and that he had hooked up with another girl on vacation.

Im not proud of these text messages, but I take responsibility at the same time, Higgins said at one point during his testimony. John was a friend.

Higgins then told the court that the last text he received from Read was John died.

Reads attorney Alan Jackson kicked off cross-examination by questioning Higgins about his romantic interest in Read. He responded, I was physically attracted to her.

Earlier this week, Laura Sullivan, a longtime friend of OKeefe, testified that Read became enraged with OKeefe during a vacation in Aruba weeks before his death, accusing him of kissing her sister, Marietta Sullivan.

Jennifer McCabe has also testified that soon after OKeefes body was found, Read screamed, I hit him! I hit him! I hit him! and frantically asked her to conduct a Google search on how long it takes for someone to die of hypothermia.

The defense has accused McCabe of conducting an incriminating internet search hours before John OKeefes body was discovered and then deleting the search to cover her tracks.

The case has garnered national attention because the defense alleges that state and local law enforcement officials framed Read and allowed the real killer to go free.

RELATED:

Hos long to die in cold: Defense highlights Google search for hypothermia in Karen Read trial

Karen Read, John OKeefe were affectionate, loving toward each other before he died, witness says

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Members of Unite Here! Local 11 hotel workers union and members of the Writers Guild of America picket together outside the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica on July 13, 2023. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

The almost 10-month-old strike that initially involved roughly 60 hotels and more than 15,000 workers in Los Angeles and Orange counties is nearing its end.

In late April, the powerful hospitality union Unite Here Local 11 announced it had reached tentative contract agreements with 12 Southern California hotels. And on Friday, Unite Here Local 11 officials said the union had negotiated agreements with six more hotels in recent days.

So far, nearly three dozen other hotels have reached deals with workers over the course of on-and-off strikes that began in July. The new contracts awarded higher pay and other benefits to thousands of housekeepers, cooks, dishwashers, servers and front desk workers .

Hotels are falling in line, Unite Here Local 11 co-President Kurt Petersen said. Were winning more the longer this goes on.

Stephanie Peterson, a spokesperson for Aimbridge Hospitality, which operates six hotels that recently settled, said in a statement: We are pleased to have reached an agreement with the Union that puts our people first, and we are taking the immediate steps to begin issuing the backpay our associates have been waiting for.

The new contracts include an almost immediate raise of $5 per hour for workers who dont typically earn tips, including front desk clerks, dishwashers and housekeepers.

Those workers will see a total hourly wage boost of $10 over the course of the contract that expires in January 2028.

Hotel Figueroa, LA Grand and Glendale Hilton are among nine hotels whose owners remain in contract negotiations with the union.

A point of contention had been the practice of some hotels recruiting recent migrants living in a Skid Row shelter to replace striking employees.

In a compromise, four hotels agreed to give the migrant workers priority in hiring for permanent positions. The hotels include the Le Meridien Delfina Santa Monica, the Four Points by Sheraton, the Holiday Inn LAX and the Pasadena Hilton.

This is a testament to the idea of no workers left behind, Petersen said. Our members saw workers exploited and had a sense of solidarity. The bosses plan to divide people didnt work.

As part of the unions agreement with Sheraton Park Anaheim, workers who had raised allegations of sexual harassment and were banned from the property will be brought back to work.

Fairfield Inn & Suites and Aloft hotels in El Segundo, which are owned by a real estate affiliate of the Blackstone Group, also approved deals with the union.

Blackstone Group spokesman Jeffrey Kauth said, The agreement substantially increases wages and benefits over the term of the contract and provides a framework to recognize a broader number of employees who will benefit from these increases. We are proud to continue our positive working relationship with the union.

During months of strikes, tensions have surged on picket lines at various hotels and have continued at some locations even after deals were reached.

Outside the Hilton Pasadena, a worker and two union members who were picketing were issued noise citations by local police and are facing criminal charges for using handheld bullhorns.

At a City Council meeting Monday, the union along with advocates with the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California sharply criticized the city for pursuing the charges.

Peter J. Eliasberg, chief counsel at the ACLU of Southern California, sent a letter May 15 to Pasadenas City Council members, chief of police and city attorney urging the city to drop the charges, saying they very likely violate the First Amendment and Liberty of Speech Clause of the California Constitution.

Video footage captured by the unions general counsel, Jeremy Blasi, and reviewed by The Times, shows two police officers recording decibel measurements of several picketers on a public sidewalk a few feet away.

The City supports the free speech rights of protesters and does not take sides in disputes, but must balance the rights of those protesting with those nearby residents and businesses impacted by protest activities, Lisa Derderian, a spokesperson for Pasadena, said in an emailed statement.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo said the city planned to review issues raised by the ordinance, but said he couldnt comment on the claims.

Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson called the deal a historic contract agreement that ensures hospitality workers will have the dignity of living wages and industry-leading benefits to support their families, according to a Unite Here Local 11 news release in April.

Over the next four years, as we prepare for the 2028 Olympics and welcome visitors from around the world to our vibrant Long Beach community, we can be proud that our local tourism economy continues to thrive, while placing value on the workforce that keeps our hospitality industry running, Richardson said.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Republican U.S. House candidates, from right, Rick Becker, Cara Mund, Alex Balazs and Julie Fedorchak participate in a debate May 24, 2024, at KFGO in Fargo. (Amy Dalrymple/North Dakota Monitor)

Attacks returned into the fray during the third Republican candidate debate for North Dakotas at-large U.S. House seat on Friday morning.

The debate, hosted by KFGO radio in Fargo, included four of the five Republican candidates running for the office with Williston resident Sharlet Mohr declining the debate invitation, according to debate moderator Paul Jurgens.

Republican moderate Cara Mund and conservative former lawmaker Rick Becker targeted their attacks on Public Service Commissioner Julie Fedorchak during the more than 90-minute debate. NDGOP-endorsed candidate Alex Balazs, similar to the first debate, tended to leave the candidates to criticize each other while focusing on the question topics.

Conflicts alleged

Becker and Mund accused Fedorchak, a utility regulator, of impropriety connected to the controversial Summit Carbon Solutions carbon dioxide pipeline.

I have difficulty trusting Julie, Becker said. She takes money from the industries she regulates.

Republican U.S. House candidate Julie Fedorchak answers a question during a debate May 24, 2024, at KFGO in Fargo as candidate Alex Balazs listens. (Amy Dalrymple/North Dakota Monitor)

Fedorchak said her family bought land in Oliver County in 2012, a year before she joined the Public Service Commission. Her family does not own land along the Summit pipeline route, but has signed a contract to store carbon dioxide transported by the pipeline on their property. The Fedorchaks were paid $22,000 for the contract and will be eligible for future royalties if the project is approved and completed.

Fedorchak said she recused herself from all PSC hearings and decisions related to the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline.

The only thing my husband and I did was what any landowner can do in North Dakota is make decisions based on the best interests of your land and your family and the investment that youve made, Fedorchak said. Thats our right as property owners and I have 100% recused myself anytime Ive had any sort of conflict of interest.

Mund referred to the timing of the land purchase and Fedorchaks role with the PSC as a lot of coincidences. Mund also suggested that Fedorchak was leaving the PSC because she had already received her payday and wanted to continue it in Washington.

Becker accused Fedorchak of accepting thousands of dollars in donations from North American Coal and a wind energy company in 2014 and 2016 with projects before the commission being approved afterward. Fedorchak said all of her donations were reported accurately in accordance with state law and nothing improper occurred.

Trump trial

The candidates also were asked their views of former President Donald Trumps criminal trial for allegedly falsifying business records involved in paying hush money to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

Fedorchak, Becker and Balazs each dismissed the allegations against Trump as a sham or frivolous. Mund called all three of her debate opponents a puppet for Trump.

It is a sham, Becker said. There is a weaponization of the bureaucratic government agencies with the Department of Justice and they are doing a railroad job on President Trump.

Becker added he believes the American people can see through the allegations and multiple trials of the former president.

It is a sham, Fedorchak said. It is a two-tiered justice system and, quite honestly, I think its a distraction.

Balazs said he believes the cases will be found to be frivolous months from now and described the proceedings as anger-tainment.

Republican U.S. House candidate Cara Mund answers a question during a debate May 24, 2024, at KFGO in Fargo as candidate Rick Becker listens. (Amy Dalrymple/North Dakota Monitor)

Mund said she hopes voters heard her opponents respond to the question because the Trump court cases are not distractions.

As a lawyer, you cant bring a case as a distraction, Mund said. Its against your oath.

She added there were multiple attempts to dismiss the cases, but the courts did not dismiss them.

When we elect leaders who undermine our court system, who support the politicization of our courts, there is a deep concern, Mund said.

Election integrity

All four candidates also weighed in on perceived election integrity issues and whether they would have voted to certify the 2020 presidential election, if they were in Congress at the time.

There were questions in the last election about voting, and balloting, and counting, and all kinds of concerns across the country, Fedorchak said. I wasnt in Congress in 2021 and Im not going to talk about what I would have done, or wouldnt have done.

Mund pointed out that Fedorchak didnt answer the question.

I hope Julie takes the opportunity to actually answer the question, Mund said. I think its important that North Dakotans actually know how she would have voted.

Mund added she would have certified the Electoral College vote following the 2020 election and would do so again in 2024.

Republican U.S. House candidate Alex Balazs answers a question during a debate May 24, 2024, at KFGO in Fargo as candidate Cara Mund listens. (Amy Dalrymple/North Dakota Monitor)

Balazs said he would vote to affirm the 2024 election, if he is sent to Congress, and he would have voted to affirm the 2020 election because the vote tallies represent the will of the voters.

Lets just be clear about this, we have a responsibility to vote to keep election integrity and to make Americans understand so they can trust their elections, Balazs said.

Becker said he would have supported a delay in the electoral certification vote in Congress, an idea supported by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas.

In my mind, to delay the vote, not whether to certify or not certify, but to delay until we knew when the Supreme Court was going to take up those cases would have been prudent, Becker said.

Fedorchak claimed delays during the 2020 election vote counting, discrepancies and alleged missing ballots have raised concerns with voters.

Our job as leaders is to acknowledge those concerns, respect them and do our very best to address the concerns that they have and make sure that people have faith in the election process thats happening, Fedorchak said.

Mund said the responsibility of elected officials is to look at the evidence and, in the case of the 2020 election, there was no widespread fraud.

Balazs said to have election integrity voters need paper ballots, something North Dakota already provides, as well as votes cast on Election Day and the elimination of mail-in ballots, except for those who are absentee.

If you are strong enough to do that as voters, then youre going to get to a clean election, and youre going to stop mucking about with talking about things that happened four years ago which are just as destructive to our nation, Balazs said.

Fedorchak said she supports a nationwide voter ID law to ensure American elections are secure.

Having an ID when you show up to vote is a basic fundamental, Fedorchak said.

During the debate, Fedorchak responded to Becker and Mund with jabs of her own. She accused Mund of focusing on attacks because she doesnt have a track record.

She doesnt have anything to talk about herself, about her own accomplishments and her own service, Fedorchak said.

Fedorchak also accused Becker of remodeling his stance on issues such as crop insurance.

Rick also wants to distract from his record, his very poor record of flip-flopping on issues time and again, Fedorchak said. Its great for Rick Becker to remodel himself in this way to be pro-crop insurance, but he has been on-record saying its unnecessary in the past. And this is just an example of what I think voters need to pay attention to. Who can you trust?

Becker said his words have been twisted; he said he supports crop insurance but believes there should be reform to eliminate waste and fraud.

Other moderators were Forum Communications columnist Jim Shaw and North Dakota Monitor Editor Amy Dalrymple. The full debate can be heard through the KFGO News & Views podcast.

The North Dakota state primary will be held June 11. For more information on early voting, or where to cast a ballot, visit the North Dakota Secretary of States website.

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The post House candidates Becker, Mund go after Fedorchak for perceived conflicts appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Illinois workers with developmental disabilities are closer to seeing higher wages.

Right now, certain businesses are allowed a federal certification under the Fair Labor Relations Act called 14(c) that allows them to offer pay lower than the federal minimum wage to workers with disabilities that impair their productivity, according to the U.S Department of Labor. 66 businesses across the state have applied for or received the designation.

In 2020, a report from the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights found from 2017-2018, the national average for a disabled worker under the 14(c) exemption had a wage of $3.34 and worked 16 hours per week.

Push to eliminate subminimum wage for disabled workers gets momentum in Capitol

Rep. Theresa Mah (D-Chicago) is sponsoring a bill to end that subminimum wage. She said several organizations like Macon Resources in Decatur still hire disabled workers, but have stopped paying their employees the lower wages.

Paying subminimum wages to disabled workers perpetuates and reinforces untrue, unfortunate expectations, low expectations, about people with disabilities in the workforce, she said on the House floor. This bill emphasizes the potential and the worth of people with disabilities, and directs our states resources towards better programs and supports to serve this population.

The effective date for the bill sunsetting the subminimum wage isnt until 2030 passed the Illinois House of Representatives Thursday night. Previous iterations of the bill proposed an earlier start date.

Passing this bill and getting us started on the process is a commitment between the state agencies, the advocates, the providers, to move towards a better system that provides resources and expands resources for everyone, Mah said.

Extension to Illinois utility assistance program heads to Pritzkers desk

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savana) said shes talked with people at the Rolling Hills Progress Center, a packaging center which employs people with developmental disabilities, who are anxious if the bill will backfire and leave dozens of disabled workers unemployed.

Theyre scared, and they should be scared, McCombie said. Because if we get this wrong, theyre going to close, and that aging population will be hurt.

While Republicans previously were concerned about the bill, several Republicans voted for it including McCombie to vote yes, saying the state law will be updated to ensure no employer will face closures from the increased pay.

We still have time, by pushing this out to 2030, we have time to make this a perfect bill, McCombie added.

The bill passed 78-30-3. It now heads to the Senate.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
From left, Northwestern president Michael Schill and Rutgers president Jonathan Holloway in Washington on 23 May 2024.

From left, Northwestern president Michael Schill and Rutgers president Jonathan Holloway in Washington on 23 May 2024. Photograph: Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/Reuters

Members of a Republican-led congressional committee confronted another set of university heads on Thursday over their approach to pro-Palestinian protests in the latest hearings on Capitol Hill on a reported increase of campus antisemitism.

Republicans on the House of Representatives education and workforce committee repeatedly clashed fiercely with Michael Schill, president of Northwestern University in Illinois, over his decision to negotiate an end to a tented protest community rather than call in police, as has happened on other campuses.

In a sometimes fiery three-hour session, Schill  who opened his testimony by declaring that he was the Jewish descendant of Holocaust survivors  became the lightning rod in a hearing also featuring the chiefs of Rutgers University and the University of California, Los Angeles.

All three institutions witnessed the appearance of encampments in April similar to one set up on the grounds of Columbia University in New York by students protesting Israels military offensive in Gaza and related financial ties with their universities.

Schill and Jonathan Holloway, president of Rutgers in New Jersey, drew Republican ire for adopting a softly-softly approach by persuading protesters to dismantle their sites through agreements that some members depicted as appeasement.

The UCLA encampment was dismantled by police after it was violently attacked by pro-Israeli counter-protesters on 30 April. Gene Block, that universitys chancellor  although criticised for deploying police too late and failing to act when pro-Palestinian protesters blocked the movement of students they accused of being Zionist, as detailed by the Los Angeles Times  attracted less rough treatment from GOP members.

A new pro-Palestinian encampment appeared on the UCLA campus as Block testified on Thursday. Over two dozens officers descended on the campus, but it was unclear if any arrests were made.

But Block was strongly denounced by Ilhan Omar, the leftwing Democratic congresswoman from Minnesota, who told him that he should be ashamed for failing to protect protesters from violent attack.

You should be ashamed for letting a peaceful protest gathering get hijacked by an angry mob, she said.

Thursdays session was the full committees third hearing on a trend of campus protests that have been subject to accusations of antisemitism and intimidation alleged to have arisen after Octobers attack by Hamas on Israel, which produced a devastating Israeli military retaliation.

An initial hearing last December led to the resignation of two university presidents, Elizabeth Magill of the University of Pennsylvania and Claudine Gay of Harvard, for giving answers deemed too legalistic.

A second hearing last month on developments at Columbia University brought assurances of action from its president, Minouche Shafik, who immediately afterwards called in police to remove an encampment on the main campus lawn. But her actions triggered an upsurge of similar tented protests at campuses across the US that became the partial focus of Thursdays hearing.

The committees Republican chair, Virginia Foxx of North Carolina, set a confrontational tone by quoting from Ernest Hemingways novel The Sun Also Rises, where a character describes going bankrupt  gradually, then suddenly.

These three little words paved the road that led to todays hearing, she said. Over the course of years  decades, even  universities gradually nurtured a campus culture of radicalism in which antisemitism grew and became tolerated by administrators.

Each of you should be ashamed of your decisions that allowed antisemitic encampments to endanger Jewish students.

Schill, saying that antisemitism and supporting Israel were not abstract or theoretical for him, admitted that his universitys rules and policies had fallen short and the university had not been ready for the students response to the 7 October attack and its aftermath.

But he was targeted by Republican members who questioned his compromise with protesters and suggested he had tolerated antisemitism.

He showed visible irritation with Elise Stefanik, the representative from New York, after she told him Im asking the questions here and held up a placard emblazoned with an F to signify that the Anti-Defamation League had pronounced Northwesterns policy on antisemitism a failure.

Answering Burgess Owens, a Republican representative from Utah, who used another placard designed as a cheque for $600m to depict funding the university receives from Qatar  a Gulf kingdom that also finances Hamas  Schill said: Im really offended by you telling me what my views are.

Jim Banks, a GOP representative from Indiana, told Schill that your performance here has been an embarrassment to your school, adding that Northwestern University had become a joke.

Responding to Brandon Williams of New York, all three heads said they had been taken by surprise by the encampments appearance and did not know who was behind them. Williams called this an astonishing admission.

Several Democratic members questioned the hearings premise and the sincerity of Republicans in tackling antisemitism, accusing them of silence when it came from their own side.

The first amendment protects both popular and agreeable speech, and speech that people can reasonably disagree with, including sometimes hateful words but again and painting with a broad brush, said the committees ranking Democrat, Bobby Scott of Virginia. The [Republican] majority has attempted to remove any distinction between hate speech and genuine political protest.

Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon highlighted what she depicted as Republican hypocrisy. She said: Just a few days ago, the Truth Social account of Donald Trump included an outrageous video with Nazi-like language about a unified reich. Did any of my colleagues on this committee call that out?
CONCORD  The sole bipartisan gun bill of the legislative session was revived Thursday in the New Hampshire House, prompting a heated argument among House Republicans.

A bill to require serious mental illness information to be reported to the FBIs background check system for firearm purchases was killed last week by the Senate, but its language was added as an amendment onto SB 476, a bill having to do with the replacement of the mens New Hampshire state prison, on the House floor.

Rep. David Meuse, a Portsmouth Democrat, joined Republican Rep. Terry Roy, of Deerfield, in sponsoring a bill that would add some mental health records to the database used for gun purchase background checks.

You may recognize this amendment. It's the bill that we passed a few weeks ago. And it still does the same things. It still takes nobody's gun rights away, said Rep. Terry Roy, R-Deerfield. I think that we pass this one more time to send the people across the southern wall the message that we believe in safety, we believe in freedom, but we also believe that there are limits and we have to be careful.

Roy, a staunch Second Amendment supporter, cosponsored the original bill (HB 1711) along with gun violence prevention advocate Rep. David Meuse, D-Portsmouth, in response to the shooting and killing of Bradley Haas, a security guard at the New Hampshire Hospital, by a man who had previously been a patient there. It was the singular gun bill that received bipartisan support this session, passing the House before getting tabled without discussion in the Senate.

Republican Rep. Terry Roy, who promotes Second Amendment rights even in his X profile picture, was criticized by gun rights groups for sponsoring a bill that would add some mental health records to gun background checks.

Rep. J.R. Hoell, R-Dunbarton, spoke against the amendment, saying that it would jeopardize the underlying bill to set aside money for the mens prison.

"These people potentially might be in danger of suicide, but this will cause the unintended consequence of them not seeking the mental health treatment they need, said Hoell. Every gun group in the state and many national ones stood opposed.

On Thursday, the amendment passed 202-165, with 27 Republicans joining 175 Democrats in support of the bill. The bill as amended passed 212-155.

Republican reps square off following vote

Shortly after the bill passed, the House went into a twenty-minute recess as an argument with raised voices broke out among House Republicans.

Rep. Travis Corcoran, R-Weare, posted his account of the conflict on X, where he said tensions between Roy and other House Republicans almost seemed to amount to a "fistfight."

Upon return from recess, Rep. Josh Yokela, R-Fremont, moved to reprimand Roy for conduct unbecoming. That motion, as well as another to reprimand Rep. Cyril Aures, R-Chichester, were both tabled.

House Democratic Leader Rep. Matt Wilhelm, D-Manchester, released a statement condemning the behavior.

Today, the behavior from Republicans following the passage of a bipartisan gun violence prevention provision, HB 1711, which was first introduced following the death of Chief Bradley Haas, was a despicable stain on this hallowed legislative body, he wrote. Escalating tempers in the chamber, where we know guns are present, is unproductive and potentially dangerous for the safety of House members, staff, press, and the visiting public.

The battle for Bradleys Law is not over yet. The amended bill now heads back to the Senate, where it may face a long negotiation process between the two chambers.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH House revives gun bill on sharing mental health data with FBI
Is housing coming near Dunkin' in Langhorne? Why the township says property needs work

A stalled housing development next to a busy Dunkin Donuts in Middletown is a tree stump-ridden mess according to a neighbor, and the township has told the owner to clean it up.

The property, at 628 W. Maple Avenue in Langhorne, adjoins the doughnut shop, and is pocked with large, deep craters from tree stump excavations. The stumps were left behind and the property, with a dilapidated house and outbuilding, is out of compliance with township rules along the heavily traveled highway.

In February they came and pulled all the (tree) stumps out, and just left them, said Donna Lorenz, whose property adjoins the site.

Watching it for you Drive-thru, more parking and (maybe) houses coming to Langhorne Dunkin' Donuts

"They've done nothing since last February," said Donna Lorenz, who lives next to the Dunkin' Donuts property on W. Maple Avenue in Middletown. Some of the holes where trees were removed are about eight feet deep.

Lorenz, who has lived next door since 2018, said the property is not only an eyesore, but poses danger.

People cut through here. Someone can fall into one of these holes, she said, pointing to one maybe 8 to 10 feet deep. Teenagers walk through here all the time. Deer come through. If one of the fawns fell into one of these holes, they might not be able to get out.

The uninhabited house and outbuilding are unsecured and attract vandals, the neighbor said.

I see them up there throwing rocks at the windows, breaking them. Ive called police on them, she said.

The property is owned by M Properties LLC of Ewing, New Jersey, which also owns the Dunkin' franchise. Nash Patel and Mitesh Patel own the adjoining property. The company has an unpublished phone number and could not be reached for comment.

The township has been in touch with the owner, who wants to build five single family homes on the parcel. Previously, Middletowns zoners granted variances for construction, but the township supervisors turned down all but one  a drive-through at the Dunkin'.

The proposed houses would be on a cul-de-sac, raising safety concerns by officials and neighbors, such as how to get fire trucks and other emergency equipment in and out of the property.

Rendering of site plan shows the Dunkin Donuts store on Maple Avenue/Route 213 in Langhorne/Middletown, and and footprints of five single-family houses behind it.

Jim Ennis, Middletowns director of Building and Zoning, said the owner received violation notices last February for non-compliance in stabilizing and securing the property. The township and the Bucks County Conservation District have advised on how to do this, he said.

The property owner caused considerable earth disturbance at the property without receiving the necessary approvals and permits. There have been meetings with the property owner at the township administrative offices and at the property in effort to remedy the earth disturbance issues, he said in an email. The property owner has placed erosion and sedimentation controls at the site, but is still in violation for not demonstrating compliance with the plans submitted to the Bucks County Conservation District and the township engineer.

The property owned by M. Properties LLC of Ewing, New Jersey, which also owns the Dunkin' Donuts at 628 W. Maple Avenue in Middletown, has been left pocked by large holes and tree stumps since last winter.

The owner has until early June to comply, he said.

The township will act accordingly dependent on how everything is addressed at that time, he said. If the property owner demonstrates compliance with all necessary requirements, then the site stabilization, which includes filling in the large holes and reseeding, can begin.

How everything will be resolved is dependent on if the property owner addresses the issues by early June. The necessary steps will be discussed at that time, he said.

JD Mullane can be reached at 215-949-5745 or at jmullane@couriertimes.com.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Dunkin' on Maple Avenue in Langhorne must clean up housing site
Hundreds of Harvard students in graduation robes walked out of their commencement on Thursday in solidarity with Palestine, and the 13 students who had been barred from the ceremony over protest encampments.

Graduating students from the top Ivy League school stood up during the commencement ceremony on Thursday and walked out chanting Free, free Palestine while others shouted, Let them walk, let them walk, during the ceremony in reference to the 13 graduates who were not allowed to receive their diplomas alongside their classmates.

During a student address, senior Shruthi Kumar used the moment to declare that this semester, our freedom of speech and our expressions of solidarity became punishable, according to the Associated Press.

She also said she was recognising the 13 undergraduates in the class of 2024 who will not graduate today, that received cheers and clapping from other graduates.

Graduating students chant as they walk out in protest over the 13 students who have been exempt from graduating (AP)

I am deeply disappointed by the intolerance for freedom of speech and the right to civil disobedience on campus.

She explained that over 1,500 students had petitioned, and nearly 500 staff and faculty members had spoken up about the sanctions placed on them.

This is about civil rights and upholding democratic principles, she said. The students had spoken. The faculty had spoken. Harvard, do you hear us?

The ceremony also heard from Maria Ressa, a journalist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a long-standing advocate of freedom of speech, who spoke as the commencement speaker.

Harvard, you are being tested, she said. The campus protests are testing everyone in America Protests give voice; they shouldnt be silenced.

Graduating students with messages supporting Gaza on their mortarboards during commencement in Harvard Yard (AP)

The graduation ceremony took place in the historic Harvard Yard, where pro-Gaza protests and an encampment was established last month.

The camp was disbanded on 14 May after the university announced that protestors agreed to end the encampment after an agreement was reached between students and Harvard leaders.

At the start of the week, the faculty announced it had restored the 13 students to a list of those eligible to graduate, Harvards governing board later overruled this after they were found to have violated the universitys policies by their conduct during the encampment protest.

Students graduating hold up a Palestinian flag duirng the graduation ceremony in Harvard Yard, at Harvard University on Thursday (AP)

The board said in a statement on Wednesday that the students were not in good standing so they could not responsibly vote to award them degrees at this time.

In coming to this determination, we note that the express provisions of the Harvard College Student Handbook state that students who are not in good standing are not eligible for degrees, the Harvard Corporation said, but added there was a possibility of appealing this.

Ms Kumar announced that she would be walking out as she could not in good conscience celebrate when their families are in pain.

A swarm of students also walked out and reconvened at a Methodist church near Harvard Square, where they reconvened for a peoples commencement, and spoke amongst each other of people who had lost their lives in Gaza, the New York Times reported.

Harvard University students pass protestors while making their way into Harvard Yard for commencement at Harvard University on Thursday (AP)

The ceremony was also met with someone in the audience holding up an Israeli flag, according to the outlet, while half a dozen or so people bore Palestinian flags during the ceremony.

A small plane also circled above the graduates, trailing an Israeli and US flag and a truck was parked outside the campus with a billboard of some of the pro-Palestinian protestors names and images under a banner that said Harvards Leading Antisemites.

Protests have sparked up in the US and across the world ever since the 7 October Hamas attacks on Israel, which killed 1,200 people, which led to the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza, which have killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to some of the latest figures.

Demonstrations and encampments on campus have also led to other breakaways from tradition surrounding commencement ceremonies, such as universities like USC cancelling their main stage ceremony last month.

The protests and encampments have led to 3,000 arrests across universities in the United States.
Hundreds of Trump supporters packed into Crotona Park in the Bronx on Thursday evening while counterprotesters jeered from the sidelines.

A sea of MAGA-hat wearing attendees rallied in support of the former president, who has spent recent weeks in a Manhattan courtroom several miles away from the South Bronx park. They chanted USA!, USA! before Trump took to the stage.

Trump started off with an encomium to his hometown, where he is widely unpopular.

Im thrilled to be back in the city I grew up in, the city I spent my life in, the city I helped build and the city that we all love, said the presumptive GOP nominee in this years presidential election.

We are going to turn New York City around and we are going to turn it around very, very quickly, he added.

It was Trumps first rally in the five boroughs in years. He saw significant gains with Bronx voters between the 2016 and 2020 elections  he got 15.7% of votes in the borough in 2020, up from 9.4% four years earlier.

Amid boasts that hed boost the economy and fix the subway  saying, Were going to renovate New York Subway System so it no longer looks like it hasnt been cleaned since 1932  Trump promised to work with Mayor Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul as president.

We are going to work with them and we are going to get this state and this city to a level that its never been before, Trump said.

His appearance in the Bronx came as hes been trying to boost support among Black and Hispanic voters.

It doesnt matter if youre Black or brown or white or whatever the hell color you are, it doesnt matter, he said. We are all Americans and were going to pull together as Americans.

Trump went on to claim Black and Hispanic voters have been most affected by the recent surge in asylum seekers, drawing chants of Build the wall!

Javette McCoy, 43, a Bronx paraprofessional who works for the city, was among those who rejected Trumps presence in her home borough.

I just dont like the man. I dont understand how a man who has done so much bad, so much corruption, someone who has set the races against each other, can be welcome in the Bronx, she told the New York Daily News. Hes not for the people. Hes not even for his people. Hes for Donald Trump.

Andrew Giuliani got the crowd pumped up before Trump took to the stage, noting that the Bronx has been home to many legendary Yankee players and saying Trump needs to be added to that list.

Because tonight, Trump is playing the Bronx, he said.

City Council Minority Leader Joe Borelli, a Republican, and New York Young Republican President Gavin Wax were in attendance, while Bronx Councilman Oswald Feliz joined counterprotesters outside the rally.

We have members of different races, different religions, people speaking different languages. These are the communities that were under direct attack by Trump almost every single day when he was the president, said Feliz, a Democrat.

Graham Smith, a retired truck driver from Ocean County, N.J., came to the Bronx because he said he wanted to have a fun time.

Most of the people are actually really decent and you know its a fun time, said Smith, a lifelong Republican who wore a T-shirt featuring Biden pictured as a puppet attached to strings held by a hand with Chinas flag on it.

(Trump) is the only choice because Biden has been a disaster, he added. How much does it cost you to fill up your car? How much does it cost you to buy groceries for your family?

Ruben Diaz, Sr., a former councilman from the Bronx, took to the stage before Trump went on. He led the crowd in a chant of Donald Trump is welcome here! Donald Trump is welcome here!

Campaign volunteers set up voter registration tables, and a flag reading TRUMP 2024 was hoisted above the rally from a huge crane.

Were showing our support because were looking for a big turnaround with closing the borders, getting somebody in charge that can run the company financially, said Thomas Auringer, CEO of U.S. Crane and Rigging LLC., a business partially based out of nearby City Island.

_____
Hungary wants to redefine its NATO status to opt out of supporting Ukraine

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said that Hungary is working to "redefine" its NATO membership status to allow it to opt out of NATOs deepening support for Ukraine.

Source: Bloomberg

Details: During an interview with Hungarian state radio on Friday, 24 May, Orban said that Hungarian officials and lawyers are working on a new set of NATO membership principles for Hungary.

Quote from Orban: "Our lawyers and officers are hard at work to see how Hungary can maintain its NATO membership in a way that it wouldnt have to take part in NATO actions outside of NATO territory."

Details: Bloomberg reported that the Hungarian government is an "important contributor" to two NATO missions outside of Hungary: in Iraq and in Kosovo. NATO members also have the option to opt out of any military missions, though participation is always encouraged.

Orbans remarks come as NATO is drawing up a package of support for Ukraine to present at its leaders summit in Washington, DC, in July, which is expected to include a greater role for NATO at the operational level in coordinating weapons deliveries and training for Ukrainian forces.

In the interview, Orban said Hungary was committed to NATOs mission to defend members should one come under attack, but Hungary was concerned that financial and military assistance for Ukraine, which is not a NATO member, would eventually lead to greater military involvement, including the deployment of NATO troops there.

Orban stressed that Hungary fundamentally disagreed with some NATO members assessment that Russia would invade NATOs eastern flank after Ukraine. He said the current war should be considered one between "two Slavic countries".

Orban said that view is not shared within NATO, which has set up working groups to explore its potentially expanded role in the Russian-Ukrainian war.

As a NATO member, Hungary participates in these discussions, but Orban said its role is effectively that of a "non-participating member" that opposes sending money and weapons to Ukraine. Orban believes that giving Hungary a formal opt-out would amount to a new concept of NATO membership.

"Its a situation where were sort of there and not there. I dont know how long this can be maintained," Orban said.

Previously: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has claimed on numerous occasions that neither Russia nor Ukraine can win the war and said that Ukraine would not exist without Western support.

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(Bloomberg) -- Hungary is working to redefine the countrys NATO membership status to allow it to potentially opt-out from the military alliances deepening support for Ukraine, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Hungarian military officials and lawyers are already working on trying to come up with a new concept that would differentiate the country from other members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Orban said in a state radio interview on Friday.

Our lawyers and officers are hard at work to see how Hungary can maintain its NATO membership in a way that it wouldnt have to take part in NATO actions outside of NATO territory, Orban said.

The government in Budapest is already an important contributor in the alliances two missions outside of its territory  in Iraq and in Kosovo. NATO members also have the option to opt out of any military missions, even though the broadest possible participation is always encouraged.

Orbans remarks come as the alliance is drawing up a package of support for Ukraine to present at its leaders summit in Washington in July. The measures are expected to include a greater role for NATO at the operational level in coordinating weapons deliveries and training for Kyivs forces.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has also proposed allies pool together a $100 billion fund for Ukraine for the coming five years, but many allies have pushed back on the plans since they were initially proposed.

Hungary has sought to repeatedly torpedo Western efforts to aid Ukraine, including financing and weapons deliveries to help Kyiv fight back Russias full-scale invasion, currently into its third year.

Orban also sought to stall on NATOs expansion to include Finland and Sweden and struck energy deals with Russia, prompting criticism from Western capitals.

In the interview, Orban said Hungary was committed to NATOs mission to defend members should one come under attack. But he said Hungary was concerned that financing and weapons supplies for Ukraine, a non-NATO country bordering Hungary, would eventually give way to greater military involvement, potentially even sending troops.

He said Hungary fundamentally disagreed with some NATO members assessment that Russia would invade NATOs eastern flank after Ukraine, as the current war, he said, should be considered as one between two Slavic countries.

That view isnt shared within NATO, which has set up working groups to explore the military alliances potentially expanded role in the war, Orban said. The support for Kyivs forces under the new NATO mission would take place outside of Ukraine.

Hungary, as a NATO member, takes part in these discussions but effectively as a non-participating member that opposes sending money and weapons to Ukraine, he said. Giving Hungary a formal opt-out would amount to a new concept of NATO membership, he said.

Its a situation where were sort of there and not there now, Orban said. I dont know how long this can be maintained.

--With assistance from Marton Kasnyik and Natalia Drozdiak.

(Updates with background, Orban comments from fourth paragraph.)

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In Hurricane Katrinas wake, twin babies were saved by a US Army leader. Now, theyve woven his legacy into their futures

The milestone unfolding here this week would have seemed unfathomable in the chaos nearly 19 years ago, when the US Army lieutenant general with the booming voice first met the twin babies.

The infant boys were starving and dehydrated, nearly limp in the suffocating heat in the days after Hurricane Katrina defeated New Orleans levee system, flooded its streets and killed many of the 1,392 people across the region whod ultimately succumb to its horrors.

Their mom, Alexandria Wheeler, had run out of formula to feed them and so decided finally to venture out for help that by then clearly wasnt coming for her.

It was like being in a third world country on United States soil, she recalled to CNN. She walked a long time to get to dry land. Then, she saw him: combat uniform, black beret, aviator glasses.

This man comes around the corner to our rescue, Wheeler said of a moment that soon would become an icon of the Crescent Citys freshly ravaged streets. It was like God just coming in, stepping in out of nowhere.

Lt. Gen. Russel Honore and his crew quickly scooped up AMari and JMari Reynolds, each in nothing but a diaper and a tiny navy baseball cap.

The encounter didnt last long, but it would prove momentous: a young familys first step toward a future that would include another flood but also many bright twists before the latest chapter came into focus hundreds of miles away with the Reynolds twins again poised to meet Honore.

This time they wore navy mortarboards and matching gowns as they got ready to line up for their graduation from Eagles Landing High School near Atlanta. But first, they had to take a video call, one almost two decades in the making.

Before they walked across the stage Wednesday to collect their diplomas, they had to deliver a message to a certain Bronze Star recipient  now 76 and retired  about how grateful they were to him. They had to tell him how his legacy was now wrapped up in the plans they had for their own futures. Their mom wanted to see his face when they told him.

Lt. Gen. Russel Honore talks Wednesday to the Reynolds twins via video call from Louisiana. - CNN

AMari and JMari stared at the laptop on a picnic table near the commencement venue when his image blinked onto the screen from Louisiana: open collar, dark suspenders, a few more creases around his brown eyes.

Wow! Nineteen years ago, boys! Now, look at you two young men, Honore said before diving right back to the moment they met: You were toddlers on Poydras and Convention street when your mom was walking down the street with you, one in each arm.

And as we walked up toward her, myself and two soldiers, she started to lower her arms, he told them. She had become exhausted from carrying you.

Put those weapons down, dammit!

In those desperate, sweltering, early days of New Orleans great flood of 2005, Wheeler  like so many survivors  had been far more concerned for her children than herself.

We hadnt eaten in maybe six days when the mother started making her way to the makeshift shelter at the Superdome  one 6 -month-old strapped to her chest, the other on her back.

Wheeler waded through murky water that hid horrors, including one she bumped under the surface: It was two bodies, collided, she told CNN a few years later. Their arms were stretched out. They were full of water, and they raised up to the top from me lifting my leg up.

When mom and boys finally made it to the stadium, though, supplies were scant. So, a desperate Wheeler headed to Harrahs casino a couple blocks away. But military personnel with guns drawn stopped them.

Terror and confusion hit Wheeler.

Were the victims, she recalled thinking. What are you pulling guns on us for?

Thats when she first heard his voice:

Put those weapons down, dammit!

Honore, center, helps Alexandria Wheeler and her twins after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 in New Orleans. - CNN

It was Honore, the Louisiana native dispatched to lead the Defense Departments response to Hurricanes Katrina and soon Rita; CNN cameras captured the moment.

He was like Gods angel, Wheeler said.

Firearm barrels lowered.

Then, Honore saw the mom with her tiny sons: Me and my team, I knew we had to reach out and help these babies.

Theres no question. We would have died

Their rescue, in Honores view, had been fate: In a city without drinkable water or electricity, a US Coast Guard vessel had docked just two blocks away; a medevac aircraft was available; and a system was in place to spirit the most dire patients to Louisianas capital, then on to Texas, for aid.

This was meant to happen, he said, hesitating even to imagine an alternative too unconscionable to think about.

The lieutenant general then spent about four hours with Wheeler and her twins, cradling AMari and JMari before the family was en route to San Antonio, she said.

They were completely dehydrated. Their veins  everything  it was really hard for them to put in IVs, Wheeler recalled, adding her sons were in the hospital for a week and a half.

AMari actually coded blue, and then JMari went directly after him.

Honore is the only reason they made it, Wheeler said.

She is sure of it.

Wheeler poses Wednesday for a portrait in Hampton, Georgia. - Stephanie Elam/CNN

We would have died, she said. Theres no question. We would have died.

Meanwhile, Honores encounter with the Reynolds twins left him inspired  to move faster, he said this week. We had to do this quicker, faster, better  because I knew that there would be other babies out there that were not as lucky as us to have this moment where all things came together.

You guys grew up in 12 years!

AMari and JMari grew up recounting the story of their deliverance, telling and retelling it with their mom and watching and rewatching the video of their tiny selves getting handed to Honore and his team before their flight to safety.

But it would take another dozen years  and another monster storm  to give the boys and their mother the chance to thank Honore for all hed done to help them.

Hurricane Harvey threatened the familys Houston apartment in 2017 as it directly killed 68 people in Texas and did more than $150 billion in damage. The storms aftermath also drew a certain lieutenant general, by then retired but still vocal about how best to respond to the changing climates power to destroy  and still known for leading with his heart.

Thankfully, Harveys water didnt enter Wheelers home. But when she heard Honore was in Texas, she sent him a message on social media.

He responded.

The four of them reunited, with the twins rushing to the military man to thank him for saving our lives.

Honore poses in 2017 in Houston with J'Mari and A'Mari Reynolds and Wheeler, their mom. - Stephanie Elam/CNN

Honore put his arms around them all.

Boy, you guys grew up in 12 years! he said.

Then, the decorated soldier  with degrees from Southern University and A&M College and Troy State University  quizzed the twins in a key category for middle school students, cultivating a seed already taking root in their young minds:

Where did they plan to go to college?

Though the boys and Honore stayed in touch from then on, it would be another seven years before they could give him answers to that critical question.

Why Im still standing here today

Sitting at the picnic table outside Atlanta in their graduation gowns, the Reynolds twins leaned into the laptop screen Wednesday to speak directly to the man whose lessons theyd begun to learn long before either could remember.

AMari spoke to Honore first: I would like to take a moment to give you my deepest gratitudes because your kindness, commitment and bravery during Hurricane Katrina is the reason why Im still standing here today.

Thanks to you, it inspired me, he said, and you played a pivotal role in my life, and thanks to you, Ill be a future addition to the United States Marine Corps.

Ooh-rah! the career Army man responded with the other branchs battle cry. Youre gonna learn how to say that word: Ooh-rah.

Congratulations, he continued. Thats a great move. Best marines in the world. Youre going to a great outfit, and youll come out stronger than you went in.

Next up was JMari: I would also like to  thank you so much for your bravery and your help that I was able to survive. You gave me at least a bunch of hope that theres still good in the world, and it gave me a chance to change mentally and physically, where I would be nice to other people, I would help others in need of help.

The Reynolds twins and Wheeler talk Wednesday before the boys' high school graduation. - CNN

Im going to college to do automotive engineering, he declared. I want to help other people and make sure everything is safe for them.

Honore retook the floor  and again raised the stakes: Well, thank you and good luck. I look forward to you inventing things that will make the world safer from climate change  because the opportunities are there to change the world with the education youre gonna get and help save the planet.

Wheeler, for her part, watched it all unfold, including the look on the retired lieutenant generals face. He also had a message for her: You done good! he told AMaris and JMaris mom. Theyre here today because of you and your tenacity and your willingness to fight for them.

When we saw you on the streets of New Orleans, you motivated the entire United States military to do more and do it quicker and do it better. We are here with admiration today because you inspired us.

Wheeler thanked him, too  for insisting those soldiers put down their guns, for affirming their survival in Houston, for changing our lives forever. They could never find words enough to thank him, she said, or do enough to repay him.

The score, however, didnt seem like one that needed settling. The first steps of the paths the Reynolds twins now had chosen might well have been lain right there at the corner of Poydras Street, when their exhausted mom happened upon an angel in fatigues.

I feel so gratified, Honore said. The engineer  can have the capability to change the world, and the Marine thats going into national service to help protect our freedom and our democracy.

These young men, the retired Army man said of the babies he once saved from the teeth of a deadly flood, will be game changers.

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Hollywoods major crew union and top studios and streamers have set a new date to return to shared negotiations on core issues for West Coast Locals.

The 13 IATSE West Coast Locals  a group that includes the International Cinematographers Guild and the Motion Picture Editors Guild and bargains on behalf of around 50,000 workers  will resume talks covering wages, working conditions, benefits and AI on June 3 through 5, the union announced on Friday. General negotiations over the contract, called the Basic Agreement, broke off on May 16 after the two sides failed to come to a deal within their previously allotted window.

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Still, the parties have plenty of time before the Basic Agreements July 31 expiration date. IATSE has previously said it has no interest in extending the contract beyond that date and could call a strike authorization vote if no deal is reached by that time.

According to the union, both labor and management have reached tentative agreements on some points during the negotiations. Still, the union cautioned that these agreements do not constitute a final deal until all proposals and discussion points are settled. These tentative agreements can still be subject to change until a full tentative agreement is achieved.

The two sides have not yet ironed out tentative agreements on AI and MPI benefits, according to sources, though generally insiders express a sense that talks have made progress so far.

Over the past week, 23 separate IATSE Locals have been negotiating the unions Area Standards Agreement, which covers around 20,000 crew members who generally work outside Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Chicago. According to the union, negotiations so far have covered classification and wage issues, working conditions, benefits and subcontracting. ASA agreement negotiations will resume on Tuesday.

This negotiation is fundamentally about ensuring the employers respect our right to get off our feet and get some rest during a long workday, to get home safely and see our families and have some economic stability, IATSE international president Matthew Loeb said in a statement. The work will continue next week when we resume our talks with the employers.

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In response to Russia's provocative actions this week, Iceland declared its support for the Baltic nations and Finland.

Source: ordis Kolbrun Reykfjor Gylfadottir, Icelandic Foreign Minister, on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "We stand firmly with our Nordic Baltic friends and allies,  Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania,  against Russias provocative behaviour in the Baltic," said ordis Kolbrun Reykfjor Gylfadottir.

We stand firmly with our Nordic Baltic friends and allies  against Russias provocative behaviour in the Baltic.  ordis Kolbrun Reykfjor Gylfadottir (@thordiskolbrun) May 24, 2024

On Tuesday, a draft law was noticed on the Russian government's website indicating the country's intentions to declare some of the eastern part of the Gulf of Finland as its internal waters, as well as near the cities of Baltiysk and Zelenogradsk in Kaliningrad Oblast. After wide-scale publicity, the draft law disappeared from the site.

On Thursday 24 May, it was reported that Russian border guards removed buoys marking the navigable channel from Estonian waters on the Narva River, which are restored every spring. Due to the incident, Russia's charge d'affaires in Estonia was summoned to the Foreign Ministry.

Over the last 24 hours, a number of individual European countries have expressed solidarity for the Baltic countries and Finland, and the EU has replied with a statement on behalf of the bloc, asking explanations from Russia regarding its activities on the Narva River.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg spoke via phone with Estonia's Prime Minister.

The Finnish Prime Minister said that Russia was testing NATO with its actions.

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The International Court of Justice ruled Friday that Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in Rafah, Gaza.

The court cannot enforce the order on its own, which came as a result of South Africa's case accusing Israel of genocide.

The 13-2 ruling comes after Gaza health authorities said at least 35,000 people have been killed under Israeli bombardment. Hundreds of thousands of people have also fled Rafah amid fears of a large-scale invasion, The New York Times reported.

The court considers that in conformity with obligations under the Genocide Convention, Israel must immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part, ICJ President Nawaf Salam said.

Since the ICJ can sometimes take years to rule on the merits of a case, it often issues provisional measures in an effort to stop a conflict from escalating in the meantime. South Africas government filed an urgent request for such a measure on May 10, accusing Israel of issuing evacuation orders in Rafah to endanger rather than protect civilian life, CNN reported.

Israels far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir responded to the ICJ ruling on social media, posting a picture of Israels founder and first prime minister, David Ben-Gurin, with the quote: Our future does not depend on what the Gentiles will say, but on what the Jews will do." Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid likewise accused the court of abject moral failure."
Insights from The New Arab, The Atlantic Council, Haaretz

The News

The International Court of Justice on Friday ordered Israel to end its military offensive in the southern city of Gaza, citing immense risk to Palestinians.

The latest decision marks the third time this year the court has ordered Israel to improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza as it considers a genocide case filed by South Africa.

Because the ICJ lacks enforcement powers, its ruling is unlikely to stop Israel from continuing its offensive into the border town of Gaza, but will likely deepen Israels isolation from the West.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

White House worried about Gaza refugees spilling into Egypt

Sources: The New Arab, The Atlantic Council, Semafor

The Biden administration is increasingly worried a Rafah offensive could drive refugees into Egypt, according to the New Arab. That could become a much larger regional problem, said Matt Duss of the Center for International Policy: A ground invasion risks fracturing the fragile relationship Israel maintains with Egypt, according to the Atlantic Council. Cairo is sympathetic to the Palestinian cause, but it has a red line at accommodating Gazan refugees in part because it doesnt want to be seen as complicit in supporting ethnic cleansing, and worries Hamas could move its base of operations to Egypt.

The ICJ ruling further fractures Western unity over Israel

Sources: Haaretz, Anadolu Agency, Politico

The US has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over a Rafah offensive, but Washington is likely to maintain support for Israel despite the ICJ ruling, according to Haaretz. Still, most other Western governments are likely to stand by the courts decision, and some may even impose sanctions on Israel if it disobeys the order, the Israeli outlet wrote. And after European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen said in April that a Rafah offensive was completely unacceptable, more than 60 EU lawmakers formally called on the bloc to force Israels compliance with international law via sanctions.

Famine in Rafah is becoming more pervasive

Source: The New York Times

International aid agencies have for weeks warned that Gazans will face famine unless Israel reopens crossings for supplies, and restores clean water, energy, and healthcare services to fight malnutrition. But none of those conditions have been met, The New York Times reported and by the time one is announced theres already going to be widespread death, said the director of a US government program that monitors famine conditions. Gazas health problems will persist even after the war ends, since a malnourished population is more susceptible to disease, and will likely suffer from lack of access to clean water and healthcare.
KYODO NEWS - May 24, 2024 - 23:36 | All, World, Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Friday he will endeavor to work with the leaders of China and South Korea to advance "practical cooperation" during their trilateral summit in Seoul next week, the first of its kind in four years, emphasizing the importance of promoting stability in a region overshadowed by tensions.

During an interview with Kyodo News ahead of the meeting on Monday, Kishida also expressed his intention to engage in close communication with China and South Korea regarding North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, as well as its past abduction of Japanese nationals. He also emphasized the importance of discussions on ways to ensure "a free and fair international economic order."

"I hope to have an open discussion and agree to promote future-oriented and practical cooperation on a wide range of issues," Kishida said, noting that the three countries share a heavy responsibility for the region's peace and prosperity.

Kishida, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol are expected to attend the summit, with agenda items expected to include personnel exchanges, economic cooperation and trade, as well as discussions on public health, according to Japanese officials.

The Japan-China-South Korea summit had not been held since 2019 against a backdrop of strained Tokyo-Seoul ties over a long-standing wartime labor dispute, Beijing's intensifying military activities in the East China Sea and the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the situation among the three East Asian neighbors has been evolving, notably with Japan-South Korea relations significantly improving under the administration of President Yoon, who took office in May 2022, which has added momentum to trilateral collaboration involving the United States.

Kishida said economic cooperation will be a key topic in the upcoming summit while acknowledging that there are "subtle differences" in the positions of the three countries in ensuring a fair international economic order.

With concerns over what is seen as unfair Chinese trade practices, such as the extensive use of industrial subsidies, Kishida said he aims to "share the awareness on the importance of rules-based economic order" among the three countries and called for "nuts and bolts efforts" toward that end.

On the sidelines of the trilateral summit, Kishida said he is eager to meet bilaterally with Li and vowed to work toward building constructive and stable ties with China through continued top-level dialogue, including with President Xi Jinping.

Outstanding bilateral issues include China's large-scale military drills surrounding Taiwan and Beijing's ongoing ban on Japanese marine products in protest of the release of treated radioactive water from northeastern Japan's crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant into the sea.

Bilateral talks with Yoon are being arranged to take place on Sunday.

On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties with South Korea next year, Kishida indicated that efforts would be made to come up with a joint document with Seoul.

"We want to exchange frank opinions on how Japan and South Korea should cooperate and collaborate" in a way that "fits the new era" of the bilateral relationship, he said.

The upcoming Japan-China-South Korea summit will be the ninth after the three East Asian nations agreed to hold talks among the three leaders annually on a rotating basis at the first standalone gathering in 2008.

In the interview, Kishida said that he would like to "regularize" the three-way summit, given its more than four-year hiatus.

Related coverage:

South Korean, Japanese, Chinese leaders to hold summit in Seoul on May 27

Japan, South Korea leaders to agree in Seoul to tackle North Korea threats

U.S., Japan, South Korea share concerns over yen, won depreciation
Russian leader Vladimir Putin has said he believes that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's legitimacy has "come to an end".

Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency RIA Novosti, citing Putin

Details: After meeting with Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, Putin reiterated that he wants peace talks with Ukraine. "We are in favour of negotiations," he said, adding that "we see that discussions have now resumed, that we need to resume negotiations".

Putin repeated yet again that the talks should be "based on the realities on the ground".

In addition, Russia's ruler claimed that Zelenskyy's legitimacy had "come to an end". And when the time comes for peace talks, Putin "will need to understand who to deal with in order to sign legally binding agreements".

Quote: "Who shall we negotiate with? We are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state [Zelenskyy] has come to an end. I think that one of the goals of the conference in Switzerland is for the Western community to confirm the legitimacy of the current head of state or not."

Background:

After the so-called "presidential election" in Russia, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said it saw no reason to consider Putin a democratically elected and legitimate president of the Russian Federation.

Zelenskyy noted that dialogue with Russian leader Vladimir Putin is currently impossible, as the Kremlin ruler is not an independent figure, and he lives in a vacuum of hate towards Ukraine supported by his inner circle.

The European Commission has responded to Russian propaganda claims that Volodymyr Zelenskyy is allegedly an illegitimate president of Ukraine, as his five-year term in office ended on 21 May 2024.

At the same time, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the way Putin's "re-election" was conducted and calling for it to be considered illegitimate.

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In a three-day crackdown on known high crime areas in the metro-east, Illinois State Police arrested 34 people and seized 15 guns.

These cases bring the total number of arrests to 307 in seven special operations since June by Illinois State Police in the metro-east.

The latest operation occurred May 15-17 with a focus on East St. Louis and neighboring communities, according to a news release from the Illinois State Police. Over 40 Illinois State Police officers from around the state participated in this operation.

The operation utilized intelligence and technology to target known high crime areas, violent offenders and structured criminal groups in the communities of the Metro East, the news release stated.

Along with the 34 arrests and 15 guns seized in mid-May, officers seized 6.5 grams of controlled substances, and filed 30 firearms charges.

In one case on May 15, troopers attempted to make a traffic stop on a stolen Kia. The driver fled but police used air support to track the vehicle to Cahokia Heights, where three persons were arrested and a stolen firearm was recovered, the news release stated.

Previous special operations were conducted June 26-29; Aug. 1-3; Oct. 2-5; Dec. 7-9; March 11-13 and April 9-11.

After the March operation, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly, the former states attorney for St. Clair County, said residents can expect to see additional special operations.
A former Kentucky prosecutor has been sentenced to three years and five months in prison for his conviction in a case in which he solicited sexually explicit images from a woman and helped her on her criminal charges.

The sentence for Ronnie Goldy was the maximum under advisory guidelines.

Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves sentenced Goldy in federal court in Lexington Friday.

Reeves said Goldy violated the trust voters placed in him by electing him to prosecute crimes.

This was a very serious white-collar offense, Reeves said at the hearing. Hes not shown respect for the law by his actions.

Goldy, 52, was commonwealths attorney for Rowan, Bath, Menifee and Montgomery counties from 2013 until he resigned in February 2023 as state lawmakers considered whether to remove him from office.

Ronnie Goldy

The Senate went on to unanimously convict Goldy in March, the first impeachment hearing and trial conducted in the Kentucky Senate in 135 years.

Federal authorities accused him of doing favors for Misty Helton, a woman with an extensive record of criminal charges that included receiving stolen property, theft, assault and drug trafficking.

Among other things, Goldy allegedly lied to a state judge in seeking Heltons release from jail; pushed to get her car released after it was impounded in a criminal case; got court dates continued for her; and suggested to another prosecutor that he reduce a drug charge against Helton.

In return, Goldy repeatedly asked Helton to send him nude photos and explicit videos of herself, a grand jury charged.

Goldy denied soliciting explicit photos and videos, but a jury convicted him of all 14 charges in the indictment, including honest services wire fraud.

That was a charge that he defrauded the public out of the honest services he owed as an elected official and used electronic communications in the crime.

Goldys attorney, Michael Curtis, asked Reeves to sentence him to 33 months, the minimum under the guidelines, noting that Goldy has lost his livelihood and that his family will lose their home.

Goldy also sought a lower sentence, apologizing to Reeves and to his family, saying his family didnt deserve the attention the case has generated.

However, the prosecutor, Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew T. Boone, sought a sentence of 51 months for Goldy.

That sentence would have been above the advisory guideline range. The range is not binding on federal judges.

Boone said that instead of holding Helton to account  as a prosecutor should have  Goldys actions enabled her to avoid the full consequences of her criminal behavior.

At one point, a person with Helton overdosed on drugs, and in another she led police on a high-speed chase and nearly hit another driver, Boone said.

He enabled a dangerous menace to society, Boone said of Goldy going to bat for Helton.

Goldy testified that he never solicited explicit photos or videos from Helton, and that his Facebook messages to her about videos were an attempt to get evidence of drug transactions, Goldy told jurors.

The jury rejected his claims, and Reeves ruled at the sentencing hearing that Goldy committed perjury in his testimony. That increased the potential sentence for Goldy.

Reeves said 41 months was a sufficient punishment for Goldy and declined to impose a $15,000 fine, citing the hardship it would cause his family.

Curtis said Goldy will appeal the conviction.

Reeves ordered Goldy to report to prison June 24.

This story will be updated.
Adult Day Service programs offer socialization and care for aging Hoosiers but are in short supply in Indiana. (Getty Images)

Jade Jeffries doesnt know what shed do without SarahCare  an adult day program that her father, James, attends every day. Jeffries is the sole caretaker of her father, whos in his late 80s and has dementia, and works two jobs to pay the bills.

I have to have somewhere I can trust, Jeffries said.  they really are like my other half.

Jeffries feels lucky to have secured a place for her father where he can get socialization and specialized programming in addition to nursing services. After the toll of COVID-19, only 40 or so such adult day programs exist in Indiana  each serving 10 to 15 members.

I struggled for a while before I could find them, Jeffries continued.  I think back (and) Im not sure how I was making it.

With SarahCare, her dad has an activities calendar, music and movement programs and more in addition to nurses and nutritionally balanced meals.

But, like the rest of Indianas Medicaid landscape, adult day services face a monumental change this summer when the state transitions to managed care. For providers, that means a Managed Care Entity will handle their claims and payments rather than the state.

Laura Altenbaumer, president of the Indiana Association for Adult Day Centers (Provided photo)

Were really kind of at a crisis right now, said Laura Altenbaumer, president of the Indiana Association of Adult Day Services. And Im concerned  that when we transition to Indiana PathWays, we are going to lose additional day programs. (The small centers) are not going to be able to withstand this transition.

Current struggles with low referrals  down 42% from last year even before the state implemented a waitlist  were pushed to a breaking point when the state briefly interrupted reimbursements for transportation services in April, a crucial service for families like the Jeffries.

Jeffries lives near Noblesville with her father and SarahCare is on the northern Marion County border in Indianapolis. The centers transportation service cant quite stretch to meet her at home so theyve arranged a pick-up spot near the highway she uses to commute to and from her Indianapolis job.

Altenbaumer, who runs her own Indiana center in Merrillville, said adult day service providers were abruptly told that transportation service would no longer be reimbursed through their referral sources, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs).

One center, she said, would have lost $6,500 monthly in transportation revenue alone, not including the loss from members who could no longer attend. Jeffries said she wouldnt be able to work without the transportation service for her father.

Altenbaumer and others appealed and the state has since paused implementation, though Altenbaumer said some AAAs still hadnt changed course  further sidelining an underutilized program with an uncertain future.

At this point, at the end of May, we are still getting denied. I will say, probably the majority of all of the centers are continuing to provide transportation for free in the hopes that we will get reimbursed. But its just not a sustainable model, Altenbaumer said. If we lose those transportations for adult day providers, there will be more adult days that close.

What are Adult Day Services?

The Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), which oversees adult day services, defines them as places that (offer) a social environment for older adults alongside programming and professional care. Facilities must have space for group activities as well as a kitchen, bathing areas, quiet rooms, examination/medication rooms and outside space.

One of the biggest aids to families is that many centers offer transportation services, which FSSA explicitly includes as one of three types of non-medical transportation options that are covered for elderly and disabled Hoosiers.

A 2021 KFF analysis compared different long-term services supports, finding only adult day services cost less than the median income for a Medicare beneficiary. (Chart from KFF)

Supporters of such programs say theyre much more cost effective than institutional care, like nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Even one-on-one care, like a personal aide through attendant care, can be prohibitively expensive compared to an adult day program, Altenbaumer said.

A 2021 review of different long-term care programs from nonprofit policy analyst KFF found that adult day programs cost less than nursing homes, home health aides and assisted living facilities.

The median private nursing home room cost $108,405 for the year, compared to $54,000 for an assisted living facility and $61,776 for a home health aide.

Adult day health care was the sole service included that cost less than the median income for a Medicare beneficiary, at $20,280 compared to $29,650.

None of the above expenses are covered by Medicare, the entitlement insurance program for Americans over 65. Medicaid does cover those programs but only for those whose incomes qualify.

To Jeffries, nursing homes wouldnt provide the same level of attentive care and socialization that her father gets at adult day services. James came to live with Jeffries in 2020, securing his spot with SarahCare a year or so later.

Jeffries said she found SarahCare on her own, rather than through her local Area Agency on Aging. After suggesting the program to her case manager, she got into the Medicaid waiver to cover the services her dad gets with SarahCare, which includes transportation.

I love it because theres not as many clients there as opposed to what it would be like in a standard nursing home setting, so I know that hes getting more one-on-one care, Jeffries said. Theyve had the same staff since he started  I think theyve added some people  but the core staff that we started with is still there. Having that consistency is so important to him.

The other alternative would be a rotating number of in-home caretakers that Jeffries said wouldnt have the same consistency.

Challenges ahead

On top of transportation reimbursement challenges, Altenbaumer worries about the future of adult day services as the state transitions to managed care. She also oversees facilities in Illinois and has experience with both states Medicaid programs.

Not only does Illinois have twice the number of programs in its Medicaid managed care system, it also has multiple referral systems and opens up adult day programs to residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In Indiana, referrals come almost exclusively from Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)  which have their own concerns about managed care.

Its a larger mixture of payer sources but it also doesnt limit the payer sources, Altenbaumer said, naming the Veterans Administration as another potential referral source. (Also) you do not need a special accreditation in Illinois to serve someone who has an intellectual disability if they want to come to adult day, they can come.

Adult day service providers cater to the Aged & Disabled waiver population, which currently has a waitlist after hitting just over 55,500 slots last month.

In Illinois, you have a bucket of referral sources that can help maintain your adult day programs. In Indiana, were waitlisted and theyve taken transportation. So if we lose somebody, we dont have a pocket of people waiting to come in, Altenbaumer said.

But its the transition to managed care, called PathWays for Aging, that worries Altenbaumer when it comes to the future of adult day services. She said most programs are small, local businesses unaccustomed to the inner workings of being providers for the three insurance giants Indiana chose as Managed Care Entities.

One program that served 36 people was most likely closing in the next month, she said. And with some AAAs pulling out of managed care entirely, Altenbaumer said theres uncertainty for adult day service providers on who to contact for referrals after the transition.

But even the AAAs have been imperfect and, at times, unfamiliar with adult day services  as they were with Jeffries.

People dont really understand the core of what adult day does and how it can help and sustain people in the community longer. And if we are struggling with explaining and training our AAAs, its going to multiply in magnitude when we go to Indiana PathWays (for Aging), Altenbaumer said. Were going to get lost in the transition and thats my fear.

Indianas PathWays for Aging launches on July 1 and is expected to serve roughly 120,000 Hoosiers.

The post Indiana adult day programs, already few in number, worry about their future appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
KOKOMO, Ind. (KFOR)  On Wednesday morning, Indiana police arrested a 31-year-old man wanted out of Okfuskee County for charges including first-degree murder.

At around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, the Kokomo Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence in Howard County, Indiana, to locate 31-year-old Demarcus Williams.

Blanchard man arrested on child exploitation charges

Demarcus Williams. Photo courtesy Kokomo Police Department.

Williams was wanted out of Okfuskee County on counts of first degree murder, conspiracy, and robbery with a dangerous weapon.

After Kokomo Police converged on the home, Williams surrendered without incident and was taken to the Howard County Criminal Justice Center.

The Kokomo Police was assisted by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
"Indications of apparent fraud": GOP candidate may have submitted dead voter's name to get on ballot

Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers nominating petitions are being called into question by Michigan Democrats who are urging state election officials to examine what they say are "indications of apparent fraud," the Detroit Free Press reported Friday.

Senate candidates are expected to submit 15,000 valid signatures to get on the ballot. Democrats claim that over half of Rogers 30,000 signatures may be illegitimate, with lawyers working for the party claiming to have found "patterns that indicate the presence of potential forgery and other fraudulent signature gathering tactics."

Rogers, considered a frontrunner for the Republican nomination, was endorsed by former President Donald Trump in March. Primary elections will be held in August.

The Michigan Board of State Canvassers received the request for a probe late Thursday. The same concerned parties last week asked the board to look into the petitions of other GOP Senate candidates, too, among them former U.S. Reps Justin Amash and Peter Meijer (Meijer dropped out last month).

"The apparent fraud uncovered demands an immediate investigation," Lavora Barnes, head of the Michigan Democratic Party, said in a statement.

A spokesperson for Rogers rejected the claims, calling them an "antidemocratic stunt."

Democrats say a review of a random sample from Rogers' petition sheets found that 23 percent of the signatures were from people who are not registered to vote, suggesting 6,500 of the nearly 30,000 signatures his campaign gathered may be invalid.

They also found indicators that suggest fraud related to the petition sheets that at least 18 signature gatherers for Rogers submitted 12,300 signatures between them. According to Democrats, the petition sheets include misspelled names, incorrect addresses and inconsistent handwriting.

Six voters whose names appear Rogers petition sheets say they never signed them, according to the Democratic-comissioned review. An affidavit from one voter states that her brother could not have signed the petition because he died in 2022, The Detroit News reported.

The Democrats lawyers are led by Christopher Trebilcock claimed that state canvassers have previously upheld that fraud by a circulator on one sheet calls into question the validity of all the petitions submitted by that circulator, the Detroit News reported.

"If the board finds that any circulator submitted a fraudulent petition sheet, it should invalidate all of that circulators sheets  for any candidate," Christopher Trebilcock, a lawyer for Democrats, wrote in the letter to state officials.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is asking the community for help locating an indigenous 15-year-old girl missing from the east side.

The CBI sent a Missing Indigenous Person Alert for Leah Black, who was last seen on Thursday, May 23 at 5 p.m. walking south on Constitution Avenue. She is missing from the 2600 block of Gobi Drive east of Marksheffel Road.

Courtesy: Colorado Bureau of Investigation

Leah is described as having brown hair and brown eyes, stands at 58 tall, and weighs 130 pounds. She was last seen wearing light blue pajama pants with ducks on them, a black top, and white Crocs shoes.

If you see her or know where she is, you are asked to contact the Colorado Springs Police Department at (719) 444-4000 or call 911.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
The regions first sculpture dedicated to the 2016 Pulse nightclub mass shooting envisioned to stand 49 feet tall with an open green pasture as a backdrop in Osceola County  highlighting its ties to the tragedy.

Renowned local artist Jefre is designing the sculpture as a tribute to the 49 victims and the survivors, family members and first responders. It would be imposing  roughly the height of a four-story building  but thats not new for Jefre: He designed the 59-foot-tall circular architectural piece that lights up a parking garage with projections in Lake Nona called The Beacon.

His design for the Pulse tribute will be unveiled June 12  the eighth anniversary of the massacre. The hope is to have it completed next year in Brownie Wise Park, a 25-acre conservation area along Lake Toho.

It doesnt have to really compete with anything except for nature, Jefre said. I think that the site fits well because it allows us to expand the ideas to not only create a tribute to the fallen 49 but also  for the greater community at large.

He said the project will include a scannable QR code that takes visitors to more information about the day of the event but will not highlight the shooting itself.

Jefre, known for building sky-high artwork around the world, was initially tapped to work on the memorial in Orlando before the onePulse Foundation took over in 2016. He left the project in 2017  after it became too large, he says  and now in an effort to give back to the community hes building the regions first tribute without charging for his time. The county and private donations will pay for the cost of construction.

It feels disrespectful if I was actually collecting funds from people who have lost so much, he said.

The onePulse Foundation went belly up last year without building its planned museum and permanent memorial. The city of Orlando has taken over that project and hopes to unveil a new design by years end.

Many people recognize the connection between Orlando and Pulse, but less is known about Osceolas ties to the tragedy. Officials, residents and the artist hope building the regions first tribute to Pulse in Osceola County will bring education and solace to the community.

Osceola holds strong significance to family members of Pulse victims and survivors  many call it home. Jefre has his own powerful connection to the area.

In 2009 at age 35, the artist had a heart attack that led him to quit his corporate job and begin making art. The incident took place in Miami, where doctors placed four stents to keep his arteries open, but he had triple bypass surgery at AdventHealth Kissimmee.

They hooked me up to an EKG and said youre having a heart attack, Jefre said. I just cashed out my 401(k)  and then I decided that instead of doing individual art pieces for buildings I wanted to create icons for cities.

One of his first art competitions for a municipality was in Kissimmee. Jefre said he won the competition and was set to build a glass square sculpture on the shores of Lake Toho.

It was like a glass box of water, he said. But due to funding I guess, you know that was the time of the [economic] crash, the funding went away.

The tragedy of Pulse has impacted not only survivors and their families, but county residents, as well.

Theres a lot more people out there, it doesnt just affect the survivors, said St. Cloud Councilman Shawn Fletcher. Its something that I personally deal with everyday.

Fletcher, the citys first LGBTQ council member, pulled into the parking lot of the nightclub just before the shooting broke out but left because it was too crowded.

Now with a tribute set to go up in the county he hopes it will have an even greater impact.

Its already having an impact because people are talking about it, Fletcher said, It will educate the community because theres a lot of people that didnt realize that there were so many victims or survivors in Osceola County.

The tribute also shines a light on change taking place within the community.

In May, Fletcher signed a proclamation declaring June as pride month for the first time in the citys history.

Awareness is definitely something thats needed, he said. I think the tribute will engage citizens, residents and visitors to make St. Cloud and Osceola County a better place to live, work and play.

Kristina Bozanich, St. Cloud resident and founder of the citys first LGBTQ festival, said having the tribute in the county will help further educate the community about the diversity of their neighbors. The festival, Proud in the Cloud, takes place June 8.
KYODO NEWS - May 24, 2024 - 12:33 | All, World

French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday he would not force through contested electoral reforms that triggered deadly riots in New Caledonia, local media reported, as he visited the French Pacific territory in a bid to ease tensions.

Violence broke out in the capital Noumea on May 13 as lawmakers in Paris debated constitutional changes that would expand voting rights in New Caledonia's provincial elections to French residents who have lived in the archipelago for 10 years.

The reform was passed by the French National Assembly on May 15, but pro-independence groups have demanded it be withdrawn, arguing the move would dilute the vote of the indigenous Kanak population.

Speaking to reporters in Noumea after a day of meetings with local leaders, Macron pledged the reform "will not be forced through in the current context" and some weeks would be allowed for "a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord" among all parties, according to local reports.

The situation would be reviewed in a month, the reports said.

Macron's government had hoped for a final vote by June to implement the reform by amending France's Constitution, but the president's latest comments suggest this will be delayed.

Related coverage:

Emmanuel Macron visits New Caledonia in bid to quell deadly riots

4 Japanese in New Caledonia evacuate with support from Australia

France to deploy military to New Caledonia to quell riots
Inside the plan to reduce traffic in NYC by 15-20% starting this summer  and why 'a lot of anger' may turn into enthusiasm

Starting this summer, New York City is expected to reduce traffic by 15-20% as it becomes the first city in the nation to implement a toll on vehicles entering the busiest parts of town.

The new  and largely unpopular  initiative, called "congestion pricing," also promises less asthma-causing pollution, fewer vehicle and pedestrian accidents, less annoying horn-honking, higher worker productivity, and a huge investment in the city's public transit system.

In an exclusive interview with The Cool Down, Alex Matthiessen, one of the key architects of the plan, addressed critics and gave us an inside look at the 15-year battle to make it happen.

First, here's what you need to know

Vehicles entering Manhattan's central business district (all streets south of 60th Street) will be charged a toll, including $15 for passenger vehicles, as of June 30. (There are some exemptions and pending lawsuits that could delay implementation.)

The toll income will enable the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to secure a $15 billion bond toward improving New York's mass transit system over 10 years.

According to the MTA, more than 900,000 people in vehicles enter the busiest part of Manhattan every day, reducing travel speeds to around 7 mph.

And while New York City's air quality has improved, ozone and "PM2.5" particulate matter in the air are linked to 2,400 deaths per year as well as thousands more ER visits and hospitalizations for asthma, heart, and lung problems, according to NYC Health.

"We're inured to the idea that traffic is just an inherent part of New York City  and that doesn't have to be the case," Matthiessen told TCD.

How we got here

The fight for congestion pricing began over 15 years ago and features a number of important characters, not the least of whom is Matthiessen, who describes himself as an advocate who has devoted his life to "taking on big issues that are seen as impossible to win," he said.

"I'm stupid enough to take on the hardest challenges, but once I do it, I feel absolutely bound to see it through no matter what it takes and how many years off my life," he told The Cool Down.

Matthiessen's passion was ignited when he was an 8-year-old out for a bike ride on the eastern end of Long Island with his father, after his mother had died a year earlier.

"We were riding along and we saw this [seagull]  and it was wrapped in those plastic six-pack rings," he said.

"My dad and I dismounted and we approached several times, trying to see if we could catch it so we could free it," he explained. But each time they neared, the bird kept trying to fly away, and his dad told him it would likely die.

"I was so upset by that  I remember crying  just the idea that humans degrade our environment so badly and with such disregard to the other species on the planet. I just found it profoundly depressing and awful," he said. "It really just stuck with me."

Fast-forward to college, studying environmental science at UC Santa Barbara, when a professor described the connection between corporations and federal regulations. "I just had a real sense of outrage, and I never looked back at that point," he said. "That's why I became an environmentalist."

Matthiessen started working with grassroots environmental organizations and went on to policy roles within the government. He then spent 10 years as the president of the nonprofit environmental organization Riverkeeper, where he worked to clean up the Hudson River after more than a century of pollution, pressuring General Electric to remove harmful chemicals (PCBs) from the water.

After leaving Riverkeeper, Matthiessen was part of a small team recruited to help make congestion pricing a reality, along with the infamous Sam Schwartz, aka "Gridlock Sam," the former NYC traffic commissioner who coined the term "gridlock."

Schwartz, who is well-known and respected through regular newspaper column and media appearances, worked with Matthiessen to build a broad coalition and ensure that the proposal was not solely Manhattan-centric but reflected the interests of New York's outer boroughs.

They also took inspiration from other cities with congestion pricing, including London and Stockholm. London's Ultra Low Emission Zone was implemented five years ago in part after the death of a 9-year-old London girl; a landmark lawsuit concluded she died from pollution after years of living next to one of London's busiest roads.

The results? Traffic has reduced by nearly half. London's air quality, which was significantly worse than New York's, is more recently on par with it, according to Bloomberg. The adoption of electric vehicles has increased by more than four times, while diesel cars have dropped by more than a quarter. And overall trips into the city through mass transit and bikes have increased by 21%, which is good for business.

"There was a lot of resistance there too," Matthiessen said. "But once it was up and running and people got used to it, as much as 70% of the local population supported those programs."

For New York, Matthiessen says, after several failed attempts, it's finally the right time and the right place.

"If I give myself credit for anything, I'm the one that kept the idea alive when no one was really keeping it alive in the conversation," he said.

Why it's unpopular

"There's just something that people resent as a car owner about the idea of being penalized for something that they're doing that they think is their American, God-given right. It does feel like, in our American life, there's just a cost to everything now, and you can't turn around before there's a new surcharge or fee  so I get that."

But, he says, "by adding a toll into the central business district of New York City, you're forcing drivers to think twice about whether they're going to take that trip into the city with their car."

Each of those drivers is slowing down traffic and emitting harmful pollutants that have increased asthma rates and contribute to New York's carbon footprint.

"They're causing all kinds of ills that cost New Yorkers and New York businesses substantially," he said.

"They might have to pay for the privilege to drive into the most congested part of the city, but the return on their investment is that they will encounter much less traffic."

Taking on the critics

During our interview, we asked Matthiessen to take on critics, point by point.

Will it penalize lower income residents?

"If you look at the statistics, the average car owner is substantially wealthier than the average mass transit rider in New York city. So the people who are squawking and complaining are, on the whole, wealthier than the people who are taking mass transit and for whom this program is mainly designed," he said.

"If you're seriously concerned about lower-income and middle-income people, you invest in the transportation system that the vast majority of them use."

Will it negatively impact rideshare services?

Uber, Lyft, and Revel were part of the coalition arguing for congestion pricing because it will mean less traffic and more rides for their drivers.

For taxi and rideshare drivers, the toll will be passed on to riders.

Will it be bad for business?

"When we first proposed this over a decade ago, a lot of businesses were upset about the possibility that this was going to dampen demand for their businesses and patrons because of fewer cars driving in, and fewer potential customers to their businesses," Matthiessen said.

But he predicts the opposite will happen, with more people coming into the city via mass transit: "There's no evidence to suggest that this is going to suffer because of fewer cars and fewer passengers traveling by car into the city."

Will it negatively affect the disabled community?

The MTA will offer exemptions for people with disabilities. Matthiessen says the exemption "squarely addresses the two major concerns with the previous system of exempting all state-issued disability license plates, which allowed for too many cheats and excluded people with disabilities who don't own cars, both of which were unfair."

Picture this  and give it a chance

Here's the future Matthiessen envisions: a city with less horn-blowing, fewer car accidents, and even fewer pedestrian deaths. People moving more quickly to get to that Broadway show or a school meeting or interview, including much faster travel times by taxi, rideshare, and bike.

"Overall, I think people are going to see and feel an improvement to their quality of life," he argued. "I'd say to people who are resistant to it, give it a chance. Let's see how it works. There's no reason why we can't make adjustments through the program as we go, as we learn what the impacts are where it's not working as well."

Other cities across the United States will be watching New York closely. Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; Chicago; Boston; Washington, D.C.; and Houston have considered or are looking seriously at their versions of the program  following London and Stockholm, which were, along with Singapore, the first cities to introduce congestion pricing.

"What I expect and hope to see in New York is that once this thing is turned on, there's going to be a lot of anger and resistance and probably a lot of bad press," Matthiessen explained. "Once the dust settles, and people accept that it's happening, it's a reality, I think people are going to be quite enthusiastic about it."

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If approved, Horse Heaven wind farm would be southeast of the Wild Horse wind facility, near Ellensburg, Washington. (Heidi Ihnen/Getty Images)

The future of one of the largest wind farms ever proposed in Washington got a boost Thursday as Gov. Jay Inslee told a state panel it went too far downsizing the project.

Last month, the states energy facility siting panel sent Inslee its recommendation for approval of the Horse Heaven wind and solar project. It contained a raft of conditions that slashed the number of turbines in the Benton County project in half to curb threats to tribal cultural resources and endangered hawks.

Inslee on Thursday directed the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council to revisit its decision and focus mitigation on specific and narrowly tailored approaches that will enable the wind farm to achieve its full or near-full energy generation capacity.

Based on my review of the record and the potential impacts, mitigation measures that substantially reduce the generation capacity of the proposed project should not be required, he said.

Inslees letter comes three days after Scout Clean Energy of Boulder, Colo., the company behind the effort, implored the council to take another look. The company said the panels restrictions would gut the projects potential to produce power and, in doing so, jeopardize its viability.

The Council has a chance to right the ship by reconsidering its decision, it said

Coming to grips with change

The Horse Heaven wind and solar project is a massive undertaking proposed in a footprint spanning roughly 72,500 acres along Interstate 82 south of the Tri-Cities.

Scout submitted its project application three years ago. It called for up to 244 wind turbines and three solar arrays. The turbines were to be spaced along a 24-mile stretch with the solar panels covering about 5,500 acres.

In the ensuing environmental reviews and public hearings, concerns proliferated about the wind farms potential to alter the landscape, endanger wildlife habitats, threaten tribal cultural resources and disrupt the economy and character of nearby communities.

The siting councils recommendation and conditions reportedly halve the number of turbines and shrink the spread of solar arrays. However, Scout said its not sure how many it can install because of a lack of clarity surrounding compliance with some mitigation measures.

In its decision, the council acknowledged the difficult trade-offs between heeding community concerns and fighting climate change by reducing Washingtons reliance on power generated from fossil fuels.

Like all energy facilities, they will necessarily have impacts. The question is not whether all impacts must be avoided. They cannot be, the council wrote in its recommendation to Inslee. Instead, the question is whether all reasonable measures have been required to mitigate and minimize them with the full understanding of the tradeoffs and benefits.

Washington is striving to end its reliance on electricity from fossil fuels such as coal by mid-century. To do that, it is counting on a rapid buildout of new clean energy generation and transmission projects like Horse Heaven.

That means readjusting the scale for these large-scale installations.

We must come to grips with the fact that we will need to adapt and accept relatively moderate changes to our physical landscape, in order to ensure continued, reliable electricity service, Inslee wrote.

In his letter, Inslee said the councils conditions went too far removing turbine locations from large swaths of land identified as the historic nesting areas of the ferruginous hawks. Part of the reason, he said, is that none of the birds had been seen in the area in five years. If some return, he suggested construction could be halted in the spring and summer months when they may be nesting.

He also pushed for the council to work with tribes to identify the highest priority cultural resources, and modify conditions accordingly.

He downplayed the potential visual impacts, saying wind turbines are a fairly common occurrence across the state. Adopting a zero-tolerance policy to visual impacts is inconsistent with state statutes. It is clear that turbines will be visible only from a distance and none of the turbines will loom over anyones home.

Inslee directed the council to respond within 90 days after which the governor must then either approve or reject the project, according to his office.

The post Inslee rejects recommendation to shrink footprint of massive wind farm appeared first on Washington State Standard.
The International Court of Justice on Friday ordered Israel to immediately halt its military offensive in Rafah, the city in southern Gaza where displaced Palestinians have sought shelter from the conflict.

The decision from the world court based in The Hague backed a request brought by South Africa in its case accusing Israel of genocide. The ICJ has no way in which to enforce its orders and Israel has consistently criticized the proceedings as baseless, but the ruling nevertheless adds to international condemnation around the way Jerusalem is carrying out its fight against Hamas.

Israel Rages as Ireland, Spain, and Norway Move to Recognize Palestinian State

Nawaf Salam, the courts president, read out the order which also demanded that Israel cease any action in Rafah which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part. Israel was further ordered to allow investigators into the enclave and submit a report within a month on the progress it has made.

The court also noted that the situation in Gaza has deteriorated further since its last order, and that the humanitarian situation in Rafah is now disastrous.

In a post on X after the order was made, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that Israel is at war for its existence and that those who demand that the State of Israel stop the war, demand that it decree itself to cease to exist. We will not agree to that, he said, adding: History will judge who today stood by the Nazis of Hamas and ISIS.

In an application to the court last week, South Africa said new measures are extremely urgent, necessary and essential in light of the desperate circumstances facing Palestinians in Gaza, and particularly in Rafah, as a result of Israels continuing violations of the Genocide Convention and of this Courts Orders.

It went on to claim that the overwhelming evidence demonstrates that the very manner in which Israel is pursuing its military operations in Rafah, and elsewhere in Gaza, is itself genocidal, and it must be ordered to stop.

The court will likely take years before issuing a final judgment in the case. In January, it delivered an interim judgment ruling that Palestinians have plausible rights protected by the Genocide Convention, but stopped short of making a decision one way or the other on South Africas central claim that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.

Israel has strenuously denied the allegation and has argued in court that its actions are specifically targeting Hamas militants in response to the Oct. 7 terror attacks.

Speaking Thursday, ahead of the latest ruling from the court, an Israeli government spokesperson said there is no power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, according to Reuters.

The court case comes at a time of acute international pressure on the Israeli government over the way in which it is prosecuting the war.

On Monday, the International Criminal Courts top prosecutor Karim Khan announced that he is seeking arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defense minister, over alleged war crimes. Khan is also pursuing warrants against three Hamas leaders. The following day, Netanyahu slammed the rogue prosecutor and claimed the move was based on a pack of lies, while President Joe Biden said the warrant applications against Israeli leaders were outrageous.

Adding to the pressure was the decision Wednesday of three Western European countriesIreland, Spain, and Norwayto formally recognize Palestinian statehood.

Jake Sullivan, Bidens national security adviser, was asked about Israels growing diplomatic isolation following the European nations decision on Wednesday. We certainly have seen a growing chorus of voices, including voices that had previously been in support of Israel, drift in another direction, Sullivan said. That is of concern to us because we do not believe that that contributes to Israels long-term security or vitality.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Investigation launched after a body is found at the Brockton wastewater treatment plant

A startling discovery for a work crew at the wastewater treatment plant in Brockton on Friday.

Police say they were called to the site on Oak Bill Way by workers who found a mans body in the water at the plant.

Preliminarily, it appears that the body had been in the water for several days, according to a statement from the Plymouth County District Attorneys office. The identity of the male has not been determined.

The district attorneys office says no foul play is suspected.

Investigators tell Boston 25 News that the body is that of an adult male, who was possibly middle-aged.

The call from a D.P.W. crew alerting police was made at 8:15 a.m. on Friday.

The state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner accepted jurisdiction and will determine the manner and cause of death, according to the statement from the district attorneys office. The incident remains under investigation by Massachusetts State Police and Brockton Police.

The wastewater treatment plant at 303 Oak Hill Way also services the towns of Abington and Whitman, as well as Stonehill College in Easton, according to information shared online by the City of Brockton.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN)  An investigation is underway after an inmate died at the Travis County Correctional Complex.

According to the Travis County Sheriffs Office, Robert Valentina Munguia, 63, was found unresponsive in his unit at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. CPR was administered, but Munguia was later pronounced dead, according to a press release from TCSO.

Munguia had been booked into custody on Nov. 26, 2023, on a charge of Injury to a Child/Elderly.

The investigation is being conducted by TCSOs Internal Affairs Unit, the Criminal Investigations Division, the Texas Rangers and the Travis County Medical Examiners Office. An autopsy was performed Thursday, and the final report is pending.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Kirkwood Community College and the rest of the state's community colleges will receive recommendations on DEI policies and practices from Community Colleges for Iowa this month. (Photo courtesy of Kirkwood Community College)

After state lawmakers passed legislation to limit diversity, equity and inclusion offices at state universities, Community Colleges for Iowa is developing recommendations pertaining to DEI practices in collaboration with community college leaders and staff.

These recommendations will help colleges shape their DEI efforts and balance lots of competing priorities, Community Colleges for Iowa Executive Director Emily Shields said. However, college officials say the work their colleges are doing is focused on creating access for all students, rather than targeting certain groups.

These recommendations will take into account accreditation and other certification requirements, state and federal law, campus climate and culture, any DEI activities, clubs, positions or councils, and hiring and promotion practices for staff and faculty, according to a Community Colleges for Iowa newsletter post. They are expected to be complete and shared online by the end of May.

Shields said the organization isnt looking deeply into how colleges handle DEI currently, but is rather making recommendations for future thinking and planning on the topic. The goal is to have a shared understanding of what to think about when approaching DEI, and to give benchmarks for ensuring student success while handling a variety of needs.

These recommendations will also help colleges juggle the requirements and perspectives that can impact their work, Shields said, from legal to social.

Were going to provide recommendations on essentially how to balance just everything right now, Shields said. The political climate, polarized views, but also the accreditation requirements and laws that theyre required to follow.

Gov. Kim Reynolds earlier this month signed a bill into law barring state universities from creating, maintaining or funding DEI offices that arent required by state or federal law or for accreditation. This could make previous DEI directives put in place by the Iowa Board of Regents  under the direction of Reynolds  moot, Regent David Barker said at the boards April meeting.

At that meeting, presidents from each of the state universities gave updates on changes to their DEI offices and practices. The University of Iowa is reworking its central DEI office, while Iowa State University and the University of Northern Iowa both eliminated their main DEI departments.

While community colleges havent fallen under the purview of these changes, Shields said she has heard concerns from lawmakers and their constituents about community college DEI efforts potentially being exclusionary, alienating or divisive.

Weve had a lot of conversations about what theyre looking to see from public higher ed, and thats absolutely a part of it, Shields said.

With these recommendations, Shields said the hope is to convey to everyone that the driving force behind DEI efforts at community colleges is access and support for all students, and that they are following the requirements of law and accreditation.

At Kirkwood Community College, diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are framed around ensuring success for any and all students, college officials say.

Vice President of Student Services Jon Buse said community colleges, as institutions that anyone is eligible to attend, are diverse in many different ways, and their goal is to identify gaps in support and then figure out how to help those most in need.

Ultimately, I think were pretty solid in the notion that we want all students to succeed and we want them to succeed on their merits, Buse said. That is, we want them to learn and be able to do the things theyll need to do to go out and be welders or be plumbers or whatever career theyre trying to find themselves in, or seeking to achieve.

Kirkwood has an Equity Team made up of faculty, staff and leaders across the college to communicate updates and strategies surrounding DEI work and to advocate for change by evaluating campus climate for students and employees. Buse said its a very broad group that doesnt handle programming, but operates to connect different areas of campus and identify opportunities for people to learn more about diversity of all kinds.

Buse said he wont know until he sees the recommendations how they might impact Kirkwoods practices, but he believes that their efforts meet both the spirit and the letter of the law in that theyre working to meet individual student needs while offering that access to every student.

I feel pretty confident that the work were doing at this college is the kind of work that everybody in our community and everybody in the state can be proud of, Buse said.

Des Moines Area Community College President Rob Denson said the college has been observing the interactions between the Legislature, Iowa Board of Regents and universities, and DMACC has worked to ensure all it does, aligns with accreditation standards and laws. Neither Denson nor Buse has heard inquiries from lawmakers or others about DEI concerns, they said.

The community college has a diversity strategic plan that has the college strive to create a culture in which all people are valued and supported, and will celebrate the similarities and differences among us, according to the diversity vision statement.

It also houses a diversity commission, which operates with the goal of advocating for diversity awareness and integrating diversity into all aspects of institutional life. The commissions definition of diversity includes race, ethnicity, age, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and differences of thought, perspective, and experience.

Denson said that from his point of view, DMACC is operating with two major initiatives  to increase the number of skilled graduates entering into high-demand job fields, and to ensure that any student that attends the college has the opportunity and support to be successful and become one of those skilled graduates.

DMACC is recruiting from all populations to get into high-demand programs, Denson said, and staff are looking at student data across all demographic groups to see where gaps are and make sure those in need know about services that are open to all. No one group is getting special services, he said, but students identified as being at-risk will get the support they require.

The term DEI alone has many connotations, Denson said. We talk about what were going to do  what were going to do is recruit hard and help students be successful.

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Iowa Health and Human Services Director Kelly Garcia spoke to reporters at a recording of Iowa Press on May 24, 2024. (Photo via Iowa PBS screenshot)

Iowa Health and Human Services Director Kelly Garcia said Friday that the state agency plans to focus on making health care more accessible across the state through changes to Iowas public health providers, like the new system for behavioral health.

Garcia answered questions from reporters on Iowa Press about the states new Behavioral Health Services System (BHSS) signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds earlier in May. This system replaces the current Mental Health and Disabilities Services (MHDS) system made up of 13 regions and combines it with the states substance abuse treatment system  made up of 19 regions  into a new public health care system of seven districts.

The BHSS system will go into effect in 2025. While Garcia praised the system as currently set up, she said there was significant work left to be done in the year before implementation. She said much of the next year will be spent assessing and refining the program to ensure that the new system is accessible to Iowans as possible. In the past, she said, there have been issues with people in certain regions not being able to obtain needed services based on their location.

Unlike the previous public mental health care system, she said, the BHSS will allow for more accountability measures through the state. It will mean that when Iowans are having problems, the state does not need to wait for a cataclysmic event to decide whether the system is working or not, she said.

What we want here is for Iowans to have equal access no matter where they live and what their needs are, Garcia said. We shouldnt have county or region barriers to that system.  The timeline kicks off a year worth of transition. And so come July of next year, we will have a newly redesigned system. Will that be final? No. We will be in a mode of continuous improvement and deep evaluation to ensure that all Iowans have access to services.

While the new BHSS system is being implemented, lawmakers did not provide additional funding for it. When asked by moderator O. Kay Henderson about $2o million in unspent funding that could have been used for mental health services, Garcia said the department is planning to use the next year to determine funding needs.

The determination includes looking at different ways that behavioral health services can be provided and paid for using Medicaid and other sources in the next year, making sure that the state is paying for evidence-based practices and drawing down federal matches for funding when applicable, she said.

I get asked all the time, Do we need more money in the system? And the answer is, I dont know, I cant tell you quite yet,' Garcia said. What we see there, Kay, is unspent balances and some duplication of funding as well. And so, were teasing through that now that well be able to see it at a deeper level, and then that measurement comes into play, because we may need more money in the system, but today I cant see all of it.

Disability care moved to separate HHS division

In addition to the consolidation of mental health and substance use services, the law also moves disability services, currently provided by MHDS, to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services division of disability and aging services.

Garcia said this change will help provide a brightly lit path for individuals with disabilities and their families to understand the care and public resources available to them  in addition to moving toward more care being provided close to home for high-needs individuals.

Garcia said that in talking with people with significant health needs, she and HHS staff have repeatedly heard that many want to stay with their families and community. Many of the departments changes are a means to allow people to stay at home and close to loved ones while still accessing needed care, she said.

She said the states Home- and Community-Based Services program allows Iowans who meet the required Medicaid-covered level of care typically provided in nursing and care facilities or hospitals to receive services at home through a Medicaid waiver system. Providers of needed assistance are paid under the Medicaid system from a fee-for-service payment.

The HHS director said in-home and community health care services are beneficial to Iowans with disabilities and specialized needs  but that the process for getting these provisions can be complicated, and in fact, not really meeting the needs of Iowans today. She said the department is having conversations with people using the program, advocates and health care providers on how to best ensure people are accessing needed services.

Federal nursing home staffing rule comes amid existing shortages

One of the motivating factors for Iowans seeking alternatives to traditional nursing homes are the reports of inadequate care and understaffing at the states long-term care facilities following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Legislation aimed at addressing these issues through measures like a proposed cap on allowable charges for temporary staffing agency workers at Iowa nursing homes did not pass this session. However, this years Health and Human Services budget did include a provision establishing joint training sessions between nursing home staff and state inspectors about common complaints.

There has recently been federal action to address nursing home shortages, with President Joe Bidens administration setting new rules for nursing home staffing standards at facilities that receive taxpayer money through Medicare and Medicaid. Officials representing Iowa care providers have said a majority of Iowa nursing homes will struggle to meet the new standards while facing workforce shortages.

One measure proposed to help health care providers meet the new requirements is raising the states Medicaid reimbursement rates, providing more state funds for covered services. Garcia said HHS will be conducting its regular reimbursement rate review in the 2024 legislative session.

She also said the biggest focus of the HHS department in the discussion of nursing homes is quality care, not necessarily keeping all current facilities open and in business.

We know that is what individuals expect and what family members want for their loved ones, and so, we have a variety of different initiatives through the Medicaid program that really hone in and focus on that, Garcia said. We do see significant changes in the need for nursing facilities  bed capacity that is lower than makes a sustainable business operation. And so, we work with the Association of Health Care Providers, we work with individual nursing facilities on those transition plans as desires of what Iowans want shift. Most Iowans are saying they want to stay at home. And so, when we think about that rebalancing of home and community-based services along with institutional settings, its not an either this or this, it is a network. We have to have a full continuum and all parts have to be strong.

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Jason Keith will be Iowa State University's next provost, pending approval from the Iowa Board of Regents.

Iowa State University has named its next senior vice president and provost, ending a months-long search.

Jason Keith was chosen from a pool of four finalists, the school announced Tuesday, May 21. The hire is dependent on approval from the Iowa Board of Regents. Keith will succeed Jonathan Wickert, who announced his resignation in January.

Keith has spent the last 10 years as dean of the James Worth Bagley College of Engineering at Mississippi State University. He was previously director of Mississippi State's Dave C. Swalm School of Chemical Engineering and led the MSU Energy Institute.

More: Iowa State University is hosting four provost finalists in April. The fourth arrived Monday.

Keith will oversee academic colleges, Extension and Research

Keith has a proven record of academic leadership at a land-grant university, Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen said in an Inside Iowa State article.

"He will be an excellent fit to work with our faculty and university leaders in innovating the future of our academic programs and advancing our teaching, research and extension missions."

Keith will begin his Ames tenure on Aug. 1. As provost, he will oversee seven academic colleges as well as the ISU graduate college, Parks Library, enrollment management, the Office of the Vice President for Research, and the Office of the Vice President for Extension and Outreach.

"President Wintersteen's vision for Iowa State University resonates perfectly with my belief in what a public land-grant university should be all about," Keith said in the Iowa State article. "I am thrilled to join her leadership team and have this opportunity to lead academic affairs to new heights in teaching, research, extension and service."

More: Iowa State University begins search to replace its longest-serving provost

More than two decades of experience

Keith has been the dean of Mississippi State's engineering college since 2015. He is also a professor and Earnest W. and Mary Ann Deavenport, Jr. Chair.

Keith has more than 20 years of college-level teaching experience. He worked as an assistant and associate professor at Michigan Technological University before becoming a professor at Mississippi State in 2011.

His research uses mathematical modeling to improve air quality and energy efficiency through the applied fields of reactor design and alternative energy. He is also a professional member of organizations such as the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the American Society for Engineering Education.

More: Iowa State University provost Jonathan Wickert will step back after 12 years

Next provost found through national search

Current provost Jonathan Wickert will step down on June 30. He is one of the nation's longest-serving provosts thanks to his 12 years of service. Wickert is also the longest-serving provost among Iowa's three public universities.

The selection process involved a national search led by an 18-member search committee chaired by David Spalding, vice president for economic development and industry relations and dean of the Ivy College of Business.

The four finalists visited campus for interviews in April. The candidates included Elizabeth Wentz, vice president and dean of the Graduate College at Arizona State University, Purdue University College of Pharmacy Dean and acting provost Eric Barker, and David Wrobel, dean of Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Oklahoma.

Keith visited Ames from April 22 to April 23. Each candidate participated in a series of interviews and campus forums.

"We had a strong pool of candidates and are thrilled to welcome Dr. Keith to Iowa State University," Spalding said in the Iowa State article. "He is an accomplished academic leader who brings a wealth of experience, and his expertise will be invaluable in working collaboratively with our talented team of deans."

More: Asian fusion restaurant Wasabi Somerset will host grand opening Tuesday in Ames

Celia Brocker is a government, crime, political and education reporter for the Ames Tribune. She can be reached at CBrocker@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Iowa State University selects Mississippi admin as next provost
The 77th Cannes Film Festival - Screening of the film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" in competition - Red Carpet Arrivals

The 77th Cannes Film Festival - Screening of the film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" in competition - Red Carpet Arrivals

By Hanna Rantala and Miranda Murray

CANNES, France (Reuters) - Exiled Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof said on Friday that his Cannes Film Festival competition entry, about a court official's family during his country's 2022 protests, was born out of his own experiences with the justice system.

Rasoulof was in the French Riviera town to premier "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" almost two weeks after announcing he had fled Iran in the wake of his sentencing to eight years in jail and flogging.

His lawyer said the 51-year-old had been sentenced for statements criticising authorities and making underground films. Iran's culture minister Mohammad Mehdi Esmaili told state media this month that Rasoulof's new film had been made illegally and there would be a crackdown on movies without permits.

Rasoulof told Reuters in Cannes that the idea for the film had come to him after being arrested and detained several times. He has been charged with offences ranging from filming without a permit to "collusion against national security".

"In the last few years I was interrogated so much, went to court, and in prison was so much in contact with the people who run the prison," said Rasoulof, who won the Berlin Film Festival's top award with his 2020 drama about capital punishment "There Is No Evil".

"For me this question arose about the people who help this system run. What's their mindset? How do they think? What sort of people are they?"

The film focuses on an investigating judge who grows increasingly stressed and paranoid as protests unfold across Iran over the death of Mahsa Amini, a Kurdish woman arrested by the morality police for allegedly flouting dress codes.

At home, his two daughters push back against his tightening grip over their lives while his wife tries to back him up.

"I first came to Cannes 20 years ago, so my presence in Cannes is about the trajectory that I began and I'm very happy to be here today," Rasoulof said.

He had several other upcoming projects, including one that could be animated. "I thought that if I go to prison, the stories would remain to be told," he added.

"I decided first to do the work that was left to do, and after that if the Islamic Republic still exists, and if these sentences still stand, that's when it will be the time to go to prison."

Iranian security forces have continued their crackdown on dissent since the protests that spiralled into some of the worst political turmoil since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iranian officials have blamed the protests and unrest on Iran's enemies, especially the United States and arch-foe Israel.

(Reporting by Hanna Rantala, additional reporting by John Davidson, writing by Miranda Murray, editing by Andrew Heavens)
KYODO NEWS - May 24, 2024 - 18:54 | Sports, All, Japan

Ozeki Kotozakura and new komusubi Onosato head into the final weekend of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament in a two-way tie for the lead after improving to 10-3 on Friday.

Kotozakura defeated one of four joint overnight leaders, 10th-ranked maegashira Shonannoumi, while Onosato was too strong for former komusubi Ura on Day 13 at Ryogoku Kokugikan.

The other overnight leader, 14th-ranked maegashira Oshoma, surrendered his place at the top with a loss to sekiwake Wakamotoharu.

Ozeki Hoshoryu is among five wrestlers on the second rung of the leaderboard at 9-4 after manhandling No. 6 maegashira Midorifuji (5-8).

Shonannoumi (9-4) was left shaking his head after charging straight into a pulling overarm throw by Kotozakura. The ozeki shifted to the right at the jump and sent the maegashira tumbling to the clay from behind.

Aiming to become the fastest first-time Emperor's Cup winner, Onosato showcased his strength and explosiveness in a one-sided battle with fifth-ranked maegashira Ura (6-7). The powerful 23-year-old rocked his opponent as he reached down for a leg pick, then bulldozed him off the dohyo.

Wakamotoharu (4-6-3), already consigned to a losing record after a four-day injury absence, prevented the Mongolian-born Oshoma (9-4) from locking in a belt grip before shoving him over the straw bales.

Sekiwake Abi (9-4) kept his place on the leaderboard at the 15-day tournament by thrusting down fifth-ranked maegashira Meisei (8-5).

Exciting young No. 1 maegashira Atamifuji (6-7) staved off a losing record while handing fifth-ranked maegashira Onosho (5-8) a decisive eighth defeat via slap down.

Related coverage:

Sumo: Abi's win over Shonannoumi leaves 4 tied in Summer tourney lead

Sumo: Onosato beaten as No. 10 maegashira Shonannoumi takes sole lead

Sumo: Veteran Takayasu knocks ozeki Kotozakura off top of leaderboard
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was buried at the holiest Shiite shrine in the nation on Thursday, days after a fatal helicopter crash killed him along with the countrys foreign minister and six others.

Mourners lowered Raisi into a tomb at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, where Shiite Islams eighth imam is buried, and millions of pilgrims visit each year.

Hundreds of thousands of people dressed in black crowded around the shrine under its iconic golden dome, wailing and beating their chests in sorrow in a sign of mourning common in Shiite ceremonies.

The days of services have failed to attract the same large crowds seen during the services for Revolutionary Guard General Qassem Soleimani in 2020, who was killed by a US drone strike in Baghdad.

Former Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi pays respect to the flag-draped coffin of the late Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. - Vahid Salemi/Copyright 2024 The AP. All rights reserved

In Tehran alone, approximately 1 million people flooded the streets to mourn Soleimani -an attendance not observed at the recent commemorations. However, the ceremonies have consistently evoked the memory of the general and prominently featured his image, likely to spark an association between the men.

Its a potential sign of the publics feelings about Raisis presidency, during which the government harshly cracked down on all dissent during protests over the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini. The 22-year-old was detained for allegedly not wearing her mandatory headscarf to authorities liking.

The government's crackdown on dissent, along with Iran's economic challenges, was not mentioned in the hours of coverage provided by state television and newspapers. Also, there has been no discussion of Raisi's involvement in the mass execution of around 5,000 dissidents at the end of the Iran-Iraq war.

No information was provided about the cause of the crash of the ageing Bell helicopter carrying him and others through a foggy, mountainous region.

Celebrating the president's death prohibited

Prosecutors have warned people against showing any public signs of celebrating Raisis death, and a heavy security force presence has been seen in Tehran since the crash.

Raisi, who was 63, had been discussed as a possible successor to Irans supreme leader, the 85-year-old Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran has set 28 June as the next presidential election. Currently, there is no apparent frontrunner for the position among Iran's political elite.

Acting President Mohammad Mokhber, a relatively unknown first vice president until Sundays crash, has stepped into Raisi's role and even attended a meeting between Khamenei and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on Wednesday.

Raisi is the first top politician in the country to be buried at the shrine, which represents a major honour for the cleric. His father-in-law serves as the city's Friday prayer leader.
Two days after Spain announced its intention to recognize an independent state of Palestine, Israel has imposed restrictions on the work of Spanish diplomats in the country.

The Spanish Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Spanish Consulate General in East Jerusalem will in future be prohibited from offering their services to Palestinians from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Foreign Minister Israel Katz posted on the social media platform X on Friday.

Katz justified the measure by pointing to a statement by Spain's deputy prime minister, Yolanda Diaz, which he categorized as anti-Semitic.

"In response to Spain's recognition of a Palestinian state and the anti-Semitic call by Spain's deputy prime minister to not just recognize a Palestinian state but to 'liberate Palestine from the river to the sea,' I have decided to sever the connection between Spain's representation in Israel and the Palestinians," he wrote.

In a speech shared on X, Diaz used the controversial slogan: "Palestine will be free from the river to the sea." It suggests that there should be a free Palestine in an area from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea - which includes the area where Israel is located.

Diaz belongs to the left-wing electoral alliance Sumar, a junior coalition partner of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Spain, Ireland and Norway announced on Wednesday that they plan to recognize an independent Palestinian state at the end of May. Israel reacted with indignation to these announcements.

A two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict envisages an independent Palestinian state that exists peacefully side by side with Israel. Netanyahu opposes a two-state solution, as does Hamas.
Israel remained defiant on Friday after the UNs top court ruled that it should stop its operations in Gaza.

Israeli officials lashed out at the landmark ruling, claiming that the International Court of Justice had got it wrong.

Israel has not and will not carry out military operations in the Rafah area that create living conditions that could cause the destruction of the Palestinian civilian population, in whole or in part, national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi said in a joint statement with the foreign ministry spokesman.

Judges at the court ruled Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in Gaza.

The United Nations top court accepted arguments by South Africa for the enforcement of emergency provisional measures to protect Palestinians civilians.

The petition is part of a wider genocide case brought by South Africa against Israel, which judges have not yet ruled on.

The state of Israel must immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical damage in the whole or in part, presiding judge Nawaf Salam said on Friday.

The court also ordered Israel to open up the border crossing with Egypt and Gaza to allow more humanitarian aid into the enclave, as well as provide access for investigators.

Ambassador Vusimuzi Madonsela, right, of South Africa during the ruling - Photo by Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock

Orders from the ICJ, which rules in disputes between countries, are legally binding and cannot be appealed, but the court has no means of enforcing its decisions.

Israel took control of the vital Rafah crossing into Gaza, which borders Egypt, in a pinpoint operation against Hamas last month, sparking international condemnation over fears it could trigger a humanitarian crisis while more than a million civilians are taking refuge there.



South Africa has framed the Israeli military operation in Gaza as part of a genocidal plan aimed at bringing about the destruction of the Palestinian people.

Its lawyers said Israels control over the two major border crossings in southern Gaza  Rafah and Kerem Shalom  was preventing sufficient humanitarian aid from entering the enclave.

The 15 judges were split 13-2 over the latest order on Friday, with judges from Uganda and Israel providing the only opposition.

Israels finance minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of a far-right party, dismissed the ruling after it was handed down.

The State of Israel is at war for its existence. Those who demand that the State of Israel stop the war, demand that it decree itself to cease to exist. We will not agree to that, he said.

04:51 PM BST

We are now closing this live blog

Heres a rundown of todays key moments from the ruling in the Hague:

Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in Gaza, Judges at the International Criminal Court ruled on Friday

The judges also said Israel must take measures to ensure unimpeded access to ICJ investigators

The decision of the World Court in the Hague to order Israel to halt military operations in Rafah is a blow to an increasingly isolated state and will no doubt result in more political pressure for it to stop, The Telegraphs Paul Nuki says

In the US, politicians there will find themselves in a difficult position following the ruling, says Tony Diver, our editor in Washington

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, will consult senior ministers by phone after the UN courts decision

04:50 PM BST

Watch: The moment the ICJ judge delivers his verdict for Israel to stop operations in Rafah

04:30 PM BST

ICJ ruling exposes Israels war crimes in Gaza, says Jordan foreign minister

The ICJ ruling exposes Israels war crimes in Gaza, wrote Ayman Safadi, Jordans foreign minister, on X.

And once again, the Israeli Govt reacts with disdain to Intl law, refusing to heed the Courts orders. The SC must shoulder its responsibility, put an end to Israels impunity & to double standards in enforcing Intl law.



Jordan has the worlds largest Palestinian refugee population, with some 2.4 million registered. That accounts for nearly half of all Palestinian refugees worldwide, according to estimates from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), which provides assistance and support to the group.

One again, the ICJ exposes Israel's war crimes in Gaza. And once again, the Israeli Govt reacts with disdain to Int'l law, refusing to heed the Court's orders. The SC must shoulder its responsibility, put an end to Israel's impunity & to double standards in enforcing Int'l law.  Ayman Safadi (@AymanHsafadi) May 24, 2024

04:21 PM BST

Watch: Announcement by judge that Israel should stop its military offensive in Gaza

04:12 PM BST

Vice president of humanitarian legal group calls Israeli attacks unlawful

The vice president of Global Rights Compliance, a humanitarian legal organisation, said the ICJ ruling recognises Israels unlawful attacks on Gaza.

Catriona Murdoch, vice president of the Starvation and Humanitarian Crisis Division, called the ruling another admonishment of Israels flagrant disregard for international law and the obligation to protect civilians in conflict.

Crucially, it gives critical recognition to survivors and the communities living under these attacks that they are unlawful.

The ruling is likely to generate further pressure and international attention against Israel and their conduct of hostilities which has, to date, had all the hallmarks of starvation being used as a deliberate method of warfare.

If Israel proceeds with its offensive in Rafah and acts against the order the ICJ issued today preventing it  the country could be said to be violating international law.

04:00 PM BST

Israeli treatment of Irish ambassador totally unacceptable, says Irish deputy premier

Irelands deputy premier has criticised Israels treatment of its ambassador as totally unacceptable.

Sonya McGuinness was summoned to the Israeli foreign affairs ministry and reprimanded over Irelands decision to recognise the state of Palestine.

As proceedings started, Ms McGuinness was shown footage of Hamas that Israel claimed was filmed on October 7.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin said: I find that totally unacceptable and no way to treat diplomats, and is outside the norm by which diplomats are treated in any country.

Norway and Spain also recognised the state of Palestine on Wednesday.

03:53 PM BST

Pictured: Devastated scenes in Khan Yunis

Israeli forces were operating in Khan Younis for months last year and, after withdrawing, carried out a surprise raid in April.

Residents who had returned to abandoned homes were forced to flee once more.

Here are the latest scenes from the devastated city.

A donkey-pulled cart rides along a devastated street - EYAD BABA/AFP via Getty Images

Internally displaced Palestinians pray next to the ruins of the Al-Islam Mosque - HAITHAM IMAD/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

03:39 PM BST

Analysis: Israel might ignore ruling, but political pressure is mounting

The decision of the World Court in the Hague to order Israel to halt military operations in Rafah is a severe blow to an increasingly isolated state.

Although its impact on the ground in Gaza is expected to be limited, with Israel unlikely to respect the ruling, the political and diplomatic fallout could be profound.

If nothing else, it marks a further ratcheting up of International pressure on the Jewish state - pressure that is hardening opinion internally, while causing it to become ever more isolated.

In Israel, the pressure is causing the country to rally round its leaders - something actively encouraged by Mr Netanyahu who is dependent for his political survival on support from the extreme right.

Externally, however, the impact is working against him. Ireland, Norway, and Spain all moved to recognise the Palestinian state this week and every day world criticism grows.

03:28 PM BST

Hamas says ruling not enough

Hamas told Reuters the decision fell short of recognising that other parts of the enclave are under attack.

We believe it is not enough since the occupations aggression across the Gaza Strip, especially in northern Gaza, is just as brutal and dangerous, senior Hamas official Basem Naim said.

03:20 PM BST

Palestinian Authority welcomes ruling

Nabil Abu Rudeineh, a Palestinian presidential spokesman, said the Authority welcomed the ruling by the UNs International Court of Justice.

The presidency welcomes the decision issued by the International Court of Justice, which represents an international consensus on the demand to stop the all-out war on Gaza, he said.

In April Vanessa Frazier, the president of the United Nations Security Council, referred the Palestinian Authoritys application to become a full member of the world body to the committee on the admission of new members.

03:11 PM BST

Pictured: The presiding judge delivering the ICJ verdict in The Hague

Judge Nawaf Salam reading the ICJ verdict

British jurist Malcolm Shaw and Yaron Wax - REUTERS/Johanna Geron

Ambassador Vusimuzi Madonsela, right, of South Africa - Photo by Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock

03:06 PM BST

Analysis: How is the US likely to respond to the ruling?

Fridays ruling creates a dilemma for US policymakers, who have opposed previous calls for Israel to dial back its offensive in Gaza.

In January, when the court issued a preliminary ruling that Israel must take measures to prevent genocide in Gaza, the White House said it would not change its policy of support for its ally.

The US has hardened its stance towards Benjamin Netanyahu since then, blocking a shipment of heavy arms that it said could be used in Rafah and calling for civilians to be better protected from Israels hunt for Hamas fighters.

However, an immediate ceasefire without conditions on Hamas also runs counter to the US strategy of securing a negotiated end to the conflict involving the release of hostages held in Gaza.

American officials will also be keen to show support for Israel in the face of international pressure, after calls for Mr Nenanyahus arrest by the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court earlier this week.

03:04 PM BST

ICJ order is a clear call for a cessation, says South Africa

South Africa has welcomed the ICJ order and urged UN member states to back it.

I believe its a much stronger, in terms of wording, set of provisional measures, very clear call for a cessation, Naledi Pandor, the foreign minister, told public broadcaster SABC.

03:01 PM BST

Benjamin Netanyahu will consult senior ministers after ruling, his office says

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, will consult senior ministers by phone after the UNs top court ordered Israel to immediately halt its military operation in the Gaza city of Rafah.

Bezalel Smotrich, Israels far-right finance minister, responded to the ruling on X, formerly Twitter, saying history will judge those who stand today alongside the Nazis of Hamas Daesh, referring to the jihadist Islamic State group.

02:56 PM BST

Palestinian Authority welcomes ICJ decision, Reuters reports

The Palestinian Authority has welcomed the ICJ decision, saying it represents an international consensus to end Israels war on Gaza, Reuters is reporting.

02:50 PM BST

Israel at war for its existence, says Israeli finance minister

Bezalel Smotrich, leader of a far-Right party and Israeli finance minister, said: The State of Israel is at war for its existence.

Those who demand that the State of Israel stop the war, demand that it decree itself to cease to exist. We will not agree to that.

02:47 PM BST

Israel must allow unimpeded access to ICJ investigators

The ICJ has ordered Israel to put a stop to its Rafah offensive and take measures to ensure unimpeded access to ICJ investigators.

Israel must maintain open the Rafah crossing for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance, the ICJ also said in a hotly awaited ruling.

02:44 PM BST

Israel unlikely to comply

Israel insists it has the right to defend itself from Hamas militants and is unlikely to comply with the ruling.

The order by the International Court of Justice further ratchets up international pressure on an increasingly isolated Israel to rein in its war on Hamas in Gaza.

Fridays decision marked the third time this year the 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders seeking to rein in the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza. While orders are legally binding, the court has no police to enforce them.

02:42 PM BST

Israel must start alleviating humanitarian crisis in Gaza

Judges at the top UN court said on Friday the situation in Gaza had deteriorated since they last ordered Israel to take urgent steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis there.

Reading out a ruling by the International Court of Justice or World Court, the bodys president Nawaf Salam said provisional measures ordered by the court in March did not fully address the situation in the enclave now.

Salam was reading the courts ruling on a request to order Israel to halt its offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah and withdraw from the enclave, in a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide.

02:31 PM BST

Presiding judge: Israel must immediately halt military offensive

Presiding judge Nawaf Salam in delivering the verdict said: In conformity with the obligations under the genocide convention Israel must immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in [Rafah] which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza 

02:24 PM BST

Israel must immediately halt its military offensive, rules ICJ

The International Court of Justice made the ruling on Friday after South Africa requested Israel halt its offensive in Rafah.

Israels operations in the enclave have killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas health ministry. Gazas population is around 2.3 million.

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Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz (L) on Friday said that Israel would sever ties between its Spanish consulate and Palestinians in response to a senior Spanish minister's use of the phrase "From the river to the sea." File Pool Photo by Abir Sultan/UPI

May 24 (UPI) -- Israel announced Friday it had terminated Spain's diplomatic and consular links with Palestinians in response to a senior Spanish minister's use of the phrase "From the river to the sea," amid an escalating row over Madrid's decision to recognize Palestine as a state.

In a social media post, Foreign Minister Israel Katz said he had decided to "sever the connection between Spain's representation in Israel and the Palestinians and to prohibit the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem from providing services to Palestinians from the West Bank."

Katz said he had been forced to take the step due to Spain's recognition of a Palestinian state and the "anti-Semitic call by Spanish Labor and Economy Minister Yolanda Diaz to 'liberate Palestine from the river to the sea'," in an online address.

Slamming Diaz as "ignorant and hate-filled," Katz urged her to examine Spain's more than 700-year experience of Islamic rule from 711 to 1492 to truly understand the motivation and goals of "radical Islam."

"We will continue pressuring, from our position in the government, to defend human rights and put an end to the genocide of the Palestinian people," the leftist leader of the Spanish government's Unite Movement coalition partner said Wednesday in a video explaining the decision to recognize Palestine.

"We live in a moment where doing the minimum is, at the same time, heroic and insufficient. From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," she said in the footage posted on X.

Israel's ambassador to Spain, whom Katz is recalling to Jerusalem over Spain's decision, condemned Diaz's comments as a "clear call for the elimination of Israel, promoting hatred and violence.

"Anti-Semitic proclamations have no place in a democratic society, and it is absolutely intolerable that they have been uttered by a vice president of the government," Rodica Radian-Gordon wrote in a post on X.

"This expression is a clear call for the elimination of Israel, promoting hatred and violence. Anti-Semitic proclamations have no place in a democratic society, and it is absolutely intolerable that they have been uttered by a vice president of the government," she said.

"I hope that Spain fulfills its commitment to fight against anti-Semitism acquired through the 'National Plan for the implementation of the European strategy to combat anti-Semitism and promote Jewish life'."

The row was triggered by simultaneous announcements Wednesday from Spain, Norway and Ireland saying they would formally recognize Palestine as a state as of May 28.

That prompted Israel to pull its ambassadors from the capitals of all three countries, accusing them of "rewarding terror."
In a move rejected by Israeli officials, the UN's top court on Friday ordered Israel to "immediately" halt its military assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, saying the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territory was "disastrous."

The ruling read aloud by Judge Nawaf Salam at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague was in response to an urgent application submitted by South Africa.

South Africa justified its application to the ICJ by arguing that the court's previous measures in connection with the Gaza war were inadequate.

Israel rejected Friday's ruling. "The charges of genocide brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice in the Hague are false, outrageous and morally repugnant," the head of the National Security Council and the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a joint statement.

"Following the horrific attack against the citizens of Israel on October 7, 2023, Israel embarked upon a defensive and just war to eliminate Hamas and to secure the release of our hostages," the statement continued.

"Israel is acting based on its right to defend its territory and its citizens, consistent with its moral values and in compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law."

"Israel has not and will not conduct military actions in the Rafah area which may inflict on the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part."

The statement vowed that Israel "will continue its efforts to enable humanitarian assistance and will act, in full compliance with the law, to reduce as much as possible harm caused to the civilian population in Gaza."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was discussing the decision with key Cabinet ministers, according to Israeli media reports.

South Africa has previously demanded measures against Israel several times in summary proceedings. This is part of the genocide lawsuit that the country filed with the court in December.

In two emergency rulings, the UN judges had obliged Israel to do everything possible to prevent genocide and to allow humanitarian aid.

The Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement welcomed the ruling. In a statement published on Friday, Hamas called on the international community and the United Nations to exert pressure on Israel.

A member of the Hamas politburo emphasized that without international pressure, the court's decision would have no effect.

Egypt and Jordan also welcomed the ICJ's ruling and urged the UN Security Council to put pressure on Israel to end its operation.

The Palestinian Authority called for increased international pressure on Israel following the ICJ decision.

The international community should force Israel to implement the decision, it said in a statement published in Ramallah on Friday. The authority believes that the court's decision confirms the view that Israel is committing war crimes.

South Africa on Friday also welcomed the ICJ's decision. The ruling African National Congress (ANC) called the decision a confirmation of the principles of justice, human rights and the rule of law.

However, in an echo of the words of former South African leader Nelson Mandela, President Cyril Ramaphosa said, "We will not be completely free until the people of Palestine are free."

With its decision, the highest court of the United Nations partially complied with demands made by South Africa in an urgent appeal.

While the top UN court's rulings are binding, it has no means of forcing compliance. It can, however, call on the UN Security Council to act.

Hamas gunmen killed some 1,200 people in Israel on October 7. Israel responded with a devastating aerial and ground campaign that, according to Hamas-run health authorities, has killed more than 35,000 people in the territory.

Israel has vowed to keep up its military operations until Hamas has been completely eliminated in Gaza.
JERUSALEM  The Israeli government is pushing forward on intensifying military operations against Hamas in Rafah, despite increasing international isolation, deepening tensions with President Biden and pressure from Israeli society critical of efforts to free hostages held in Gaza.

Israel describes the southern Gazan city of Rafah as the stronghold of the last pieces of Hamass conventional army, and it sees the border area with Egypt as a loose sieve where weapons and supplies flow freely to Hamas.

Biden has said he has a red line against an Israeli military operation in Rafah that causes wide-scale destruction and death for Palestinian civilians. But the administration, so far, has not described growing Israeli military operations in the southern Gaza Strip as crossing the threshold of wide-scale warfare.

The Israeli military has increased the number of troops present in and around Rafah over two weeks since the start of operations in earnest, said Seth Frantzman, an Israel-based adjunct fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies based in Washington.

Theyre basically moving along this very narrow area of land that is along the Gaza-Egypt border, which is about 8 miles of border, and I think theyve taken about 50 percent of it, he said.

Theyre operating in a narrow strip. I think that is intentional, so that they dont have to enter the really built-up, more densely populated areas.

But the vast majority of the international community and humanitarian groups are raising alarm that Israels ongoing military operations are putting at risk nearly 1 million Palestinians, displaced multiple times, and that humanitarian assistance deliveries have yet to scale up enough to meet the needs of the people.

The claim that people in Gaza can move to safe or humanitarian zones is false. Each time, it puts the lives of civilians at serious risk, Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general for the legacy agency that provides relief for Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA, posted on the social platform X.

He warned that 800,000 Palestinians have been forced to flee, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Gaza does not have any safe zones. No place is safe. No one is safe, he said.

And the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a ruling Friday for Israel to halt its military operations in Rafah amid concern of acts of genocide occurring against the Palestinians.

The ICJ does not have an enforcement mechanism, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has earlier rejected international pressure to pull back on his countrys military operations.

No amount of pressure and no decision in any international forum will prevent Israel from defending itself against those who seek our destruction, the prime minister said last week.

The statement came in response to an announcement by the prosecutor for the International Criminal Court earlier this week that he is seeking arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over allegations of starvation as a war crime.

And earlier this week, Ireland, Norway and Spain made the move to recognize a Palestinian state, a move that was criticized by Israeli officials but welcomed by advocates for Palestinians as elevating their human rights.

The recognitions  contribute positively to all international efforts towards ending the Israeli illegal occupation and achieving peace and stability in the region, the ministry of foreign affairs for the Palestinian Authority said in a statement.

But Netanyahu and his supporters say those actions reward Hamas for carrying out the most devastating attack against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. More than 1,100 people were killed in the Oct. 7 invasion, and 250 people were taken hostage.

A weeklong cease-fire at the end of November brokered by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar succeeded in securing the release of more than 100 hostages held by Hamas, relieving the fighting for Palestinians in Gaza and scaling up humanitarian aid deliveries.

But international mediators have failed to reach another deal to secure the release of hostages.

The Israeli military said Friday that it rescued the bodies of three hostages from an undisclosed location in Gaza  bringing the known number of hostages to about 125, with about 36 believed dead.

On Thursday, the Hostage Families Forum released a video of the violent abduction by Hamas of seven young Israeli women serving as observers at an Israeli military base in southern Israel. The video was released as part of a pressure campaign on the Israeli government and the international community to do more to secure their release.

But Netanyahu has vowed that military pressure is the only way to get Hamas to release the hostages.

Were committed to get the other half [of the hostages] as well. Thats by applying military pressure and when he [Hamas chief in Gaza Yahya Sinwar] senses that the pressure is too heavy, he releases hostages, Netanyahu said in an interview with Dan Senor on the podcast Call Me Back.

Israeli officials have not given a timeline for how long they expect an operation in Rafah to last. Israel has delayed the start of the operation for weeks amid concerns from the Biden administration about the civilian death toll in the region. Israels offensives in Gaza have killed more than 35,500 Palestinians in the past seven months, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians.

What were going to be looking at is whether there is a lot of death and destruction from this operation or if it is more precise and proportional. And we will see that unfold, national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters Wednesday, following meetings with Israeli officials in Jerusalem last week.

Most Israelis are supportive of Israels ongoing military operations, but fatigue is setting in amid deep divisions over the military death toll  more than 600 soldiers killed in action  concern over efforts to release hostages who may still be alive; rising tensions with the U.S. and international isolation.

The public is becoming frustrated with the war effort, said Shmuel Rosner, a senior fellow at the Jewish People Policy Institute who has conducted regular polling of the Israeli public before and after Hamass attack on Oct. 7.

We Israelis, by and large, support the war. We, by and large, still understand that winning the war is essential for Israel. But after eight months, as you would expect, there is growing fatigue, frustration and political infighting.

While Netanyahu is in a relatively strong position at the head of government  unlikely to be forced into early elections  he is facing increased public opposition from members in his own party, coalition lawmakers and greater attacks from the left-wing opposition.

Gallant has called for Netanyahu to deliver a public plan for Gaza absent Hamas control of the strips Palestinian population. And Benny Gantz, a member of the wartime Cabinet, has given a June 8 deadline when he will exit the coalition if Netanyahu fails to lay out a postwar strategy.

A potential exit by Gantz is unlikely to immediately trigger elections in Israel. A handful of members of Netanyahus 64-member coalition would have to defect. There are frustrations across the spectrum, with far-right and center-right members of the coalition upset that Netanyahu delayed military operations in Rafah because of international pressure.

I think it took way too long, said Dan Illouz, a member of Knesset who is part of Netanyahus Likud party.

I think that the idea was that if there was an understanding with the Americans and the diplomatic price have to pay for the Rafah operation  they wanted to come to some sort of an agreement for the diplomatic costs to be lower.  I think what happened was the diplomatic cost was much higher.

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By Raphael Satter and Christopher Bing

WASHINGTON - An Israeli private investigator sought by the United States over hack-for-hire allegations previously told colleagues that he had been questioned by FBI agents over his work for the Washington public affairs firm DCI Group, according to three people familiar with the matter.

Federal law enforcements interest in DCI, which has not been previously reported, shows a years-long U.S. probe into cybermercenary activity is wider than publicly known.

The FBI declined to comment. DCI, a public relations firm that has worked on behalf of hedge funds and multinationals, said in a written statement that we direct all our employees and consultants to comply with the law.

Private investigator Amit Forlit was arrested at London's Heathrow Airport on April 30 over American cybercrime and wire fraud charges. Prosecutors in London said only that Forlit engaged in a hack for hire scheme on behalf of several clients, including an unidentified Washington-based PR and lobbying firm. He was released two days after his arrest following a procedural error by British authorities.

He was rearrested on Thursday on the same charges and has since been released on bail, according to Britain's National Crime Agency and a London court register published Friday. The register said Forlit surrendered his passport and was ordered not to leave the country.

The 56-year-olds lawyers did not return repeated messages. In a deposition made public in 2022, Forlit said, "I've never commissioned hacking and never paid for hacking.

Reuters revealed the existence of an FBI investigation into the cybermercenary industry in 2020. The only person known to have been convicted in connection with the inquiry, Israeli private investigator Aviram Azari, was given a 6 2/3 year sentence last year.

Forlit acknowledged in his deposition that Azari had done work on his behalf. Privately, he expressed concern that he was being sought by American law enforcement following Azaris arrest, according to three associates. The associates said Forlit told them he arranged a meeting with FBI officials in the U.S. embassy in London in late 2021 to gauge whether he would be arrested if he visited the United States. It was at that meeting that the FBI quizzed him about his work for DCI, they said.

The associates spoke on condition of anonymity to relay the content of private conversations.

Forlit is separately being sued in New York federal court by aviation executive Farhad Azima, who accuses the Israeli of being party to the theft of his emails in 2016. He denies the allegations. A review of court records tied to Azimas litigation shows that Forlit had business with DCI. A Citibank document made public in August 2022 as part of Azimas discovery effort in Florida shows Forlit's company, then known as SDC-Gadot, listed DCI Group as one of its three "major customers.

Citibank declined to comment on the document.

(Reporting by Raphael Satter and Christopher Bing in Washington. Sam Tobin in London contributed reporting. Editing by Chris Sanders and Anna Driver)
Sen. J.D. Vance (ROhio.) believes that American neoconservatives have caused 40 years of "disasters" in the Middle East. But he's doubling down on exactly the vision they've had all along: an alliance of Israel and Sunni Muslimled states, backed by U.S. military power, to "police" the region.

At a Thursday conference hosted by the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraftwhere I worked as a researcher several years agoand The American Conservative, the senator laid out his idea of a "foreign policy for the middle class." Vance, who is on Donald Trump's shortlist for vice president, attacked the "tired old slogans" that have become consensus in Washington and called for a more "realist" approach.

But Vance also tried to argue that U.S. support for Israel and its Sunni allies is quite different from the kind of "endless war" policies he opposes elsewhere. He pointed to Israeli developments in missile defense as a potential benefit of U.S. support to Israel.

"By combining the Abraham Accords approach with the enduring defeat of Hamas," the United States will ensure that "Israel, with the Sunni nations, can actually police their region of the world. That allows us to spend less time and less resources in the Middle East," Vance said.

The Abraham Accords were a set of 2020 agreements between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. The Trump administration sweetened the deal with several offers of U.S. support, such as a sale of advanced American fighter jets to the UAE.

The accords have allowed these countries "to push for even greater U.S. military entanglements" in the region, including a U.S.-led air defense alliance, according to a Quincy Institute report on Emirati lobbying. Saudi Arabia is currently demanding a formal U.S. defense pact in order to join the accords.

Last month, during a round of Israeli-Iranian fighting, the U.S. military and Arab nations reportedly shot down most of the Iranian missiles and drones before they entered Israel's airspace.

At the conference, Vance complained that the Biden administration was not bringing enough American weapons into the Middle East. An unnamed Israeli official told him that Washington had "forced the Israelis to empty their munitions stockpile and give it all to the Ukrainians," which Vance claimed "prolonged the war in Gaza in service of prolonging the war in Ukraine."

"That's absolute bullshit," says Josh Paul, a former U.S. State Department official in charge of weapons exports and a nonresident fellow at the nonprofit Democracy for the Arab World Now. "I think if that happened at all, the [Israeli official] was referring to the effort to transfer 155mm ammo from the U.S. stocks prior to October 7."

The United States keeps large amounts of ammunition in the War Reserve Stock Allies-Israel, a cache of weapons that are owned by the U.S. military weapons but located in Israel for rapid deployment to the region. Last year, the Biden administration began supplying the Ukrainian army from the stockpile. After the October 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas, the administration canceled shipments to Ukraine and asked Congress to give the Israeli army unlimited access to the war reserve.

Vivek Ramaswamy, another pro-Trump speaker at the Thursday conference, similarly argued that Israel is "a more important ally to the United States in advancing our interests in the Middle East than Ukraine." However, he argued that Washington should sell Israel weapons rather than give them away at the taxpayer's expense.

Vance wouldn't be the first to try selling a U.S.-Israeli-Sunni alliance as a way to lighten America's load. In 1996, a group of prominent neoconservatives wrote the "Clean Break" report, calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to adopt a policy of Israeli "self-reliance." The authors envisioned Israel working together with Sunni states to "contain, destabilize, and roll-back" Iranian, Syrian, and Palestinian threats.

"Israel can under these conditions better cooperate with the U.S. to counter real threats to the region and the West's security," the report stated. "Mr. Netanyahu can highlight his desire to cooperate more closely with the United States on anti-missile defense in order to remove the threat of blackmail which even a weak and distant army can pose to either state."

Several of the authorsRichard Perle, Douglas Feith, and David Wurmserlater served in the Bush administration and pushed for the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

In addition to his belief in the "hard-nosed strategic argument" for his Middle Eastern policy, Vance said that it aligned with the "moral intuitions of American citizens," especially Christian Americans.

"A majority of people in this countryand I myself am Christianbelieve their savior was born, died, and resurrected in that narrow little strip of territory on the Mediterranean," he argued. "The idea that there is ever going to be an American foreign policy that doesn't care about that slice of the world is preposterous."

Vance differentiated himself from neocons by denouncing their attempts to "spread democracy" by force. Pointing to the demise of ancient Iraqi Christian communities after the Iraq War, he argued that "traditional neoconservative foreign policy keeps on leading to the genocide of Christians."

Last month, right-wing talk show host Tucker Carlson made a similar point about the fate of Iraqi Christiansalthough with a subtle difference. "When there's a war abroad that the United States is funding, it is Christians who tend to die disproportionately," Carlson said during an interview with Palestinian Lutheran pastor Munther Isaac about his community's treatment by the Israeli government.

"Many Christian churches in the United States, particularly evangelical churches, support" the Israeli war effort, Carlson said. "But there is virtually never a word about the Christians who live there, the ancient Christian community in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel proper. So, because no one has said a word, there has been great suffering among the Christian population in that region."

Indeed, Isaac told Carlson that it would be a mistake to see Israel as a "protector" of Christianity and that Palestinian Christians have been "disproportionately" impacted by the war in Gaza.

Vance may believe that he has found an innovative solution to pro-Israel noninterventionists' dilemma. Instead, he's stuck on the well-worn path that neoconservatives once tookone that will neither keep the United States out of Middle Eastern wars nor assuage American Christians' moral feelings.

The post J.D. Vance Condemned NeoconsThen Called for the Same Middle East Policy appeared first on Reason.com.
The Japanese government has decided to introduce sanctions against nine organisations based in Russia and a Russian citizen, as well as two Cypriot firms through which Moscow purchases weapons from North Korea.

Source: Japanese news agency Kyodo News

Details: Japanese government spokesman Hayashi Yoshimasa said at a press conference on Friday that Japan "strongly condemns" the supply of arms to Russia from North Korea, which is a violation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

"As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, it is extremely important to take actions in coordination with the international community," Yoshimasa said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan noted that assets owned by sanctioned companies in Japan, including shipping and military firms, and individuals, would be frozen.

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KYODO NEWS - May 25, 2024 - 08:17 | World, All, Japan

Many finance chiefs from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies on Friday expressed concern that China's underpriced excess production has had a negative impact on the global economy, Japan's top currency diplomat said.

Masato Kanda, Japan's vice finance minister for international affairs, also touched on currency issues, telling reporters in the northern Italian town of Stresa, "It's all about taking appropriate action if there are excessive fluctuations."

The G7 meeting, which began Thursday night, comes at a time of considerable depreciation of the yen against the U.S. dollar.

Kanda made the remarks after G7 finance ministers and central bank governors finished the first part of their discussions. China's excess industrial capacity, supported by massive government subsidies, is one of the major topics at their meeting, which will wrap up on Saturday.

The U.S. administration of President Joe Biden, who is aiming for his second term, is especially keen on the issue.

With the presidential election less than six months away, Biden earlier this month announced plans to quadruple punitive duties on Chinese electric vehicles to 100 percent and sharply raise tariffs on Chinese goods in other sectors of strategic importance, such as semiconductors, in a bid to help American workers compete.

The administration has accused China of flooding global markets with exports that are underpriced with "unfair" industrial policies.
New Jersey veterans surprised with medals for their service

New Jersey veterans surprised with medals for their service

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. (PIX11)  Four veterans in New Jersey thought they were simply going to be recognized for their service. What ended up happening was a little bit more.

Eugene Holland, Michael Bongo, Bob Saiewitz and Joseph Hellerman live together at Brandywine Princeton in South Brunswick, where they received service medals from the State of New Jersey Thursday.

Its a long time coming for me, said Bongo, a Navy veteran.

I enlisted in the Marine Corps at 17. I was in Vietnam when I was 18, said Holland, who was honorably discharged as a corporal after serving in combat until 1967. Im still proud of my service, no matter what anybody else says.

Blue Angels to headline Bethpage Air Show on Memorial Day weekend

Holland received the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, the states highest military honor, awarded to a veteran honorably discharged who is also a 20-year resident of New Jersey and served in combat.

His daughter, Patty, also presented him with a shadowbox of his service uniform.

My dad has been through a lot, said Patty Holland, especially with PTSD and everything from Vietnam.

My daughters here, that was a nice surprise, said Saiewitz, who was moved to tears. I felt I was good to Uncle Sam, and Uncle Sam was very good to me.

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Jewish faculty members, students and others on campus said this week that they are disappointed in the universitys reaction to the student protests on campus and a reported antisemitic incident in particular.

Members of the universitys Jewish community told The Bellingham Herald in interviews that they felt ignored and left out of the WWU administrations response to a student protest camp that opposes the war in Gaza.

Professor McNeel Jantzen told The Herald the silence is deafening from university officials.

I was rather disheartened to learn about that (antisemitic) incident via (The Herald) rather than from the university, especially as a Jewish faculty member, Jantzen said in an interview at her office Wednesday.

Jantzen, who teaches cognitive neuroscience and is director of the Language and Neural Systems Lab, said she expected to receive a campus-wide alert that a Jewish student had been spat upon and followed May 17, during a protest that combined antiwar sentiment with a looming strike threat.

If its bad, let us know. If its a threat to our safety, let us know, she said.

In addition to the reported antisemitic incident, vandalism expressing anti-Israel sentiment has been rising in recent weeks.

Maddie Pelkey, a senior in environmental studies, told The Herald that she thinks the university is treating its Jewish students differently amid criticism of Israel in campus protests, teach-ins and other events.

If this was anti-Islam or anti-Black, there would 100% action being taken. But when a Jewish person is spat upon, theres not even an action condemning that, Pelkey told The Herald.

Other Jewish students, faculty and Bellingham residents have expressed their concerns privately to The Herald in the months since Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that killed 1,200 civilians and the Israeli military response that has claimed as many as 35,000 Palestinian lives.

Rabbi Avremi Yarmush of the Chabad synagogue at WWU told KOMO-TV that the university is failing to protect its Jewish students.

Its an allowance for students to say, Hatred of Jews is not so bad. If it was a bad thing, the school would do something, Yarmush said.

WWU spokesman Jonathan Higgins said an alert wasnt sent to students and staff because a day had passed by the time police documented a full report of the incident.

Higgins said university police and the WWU Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance continue to assess the incident. In an email, Higgins offered a timeline of events to explain why a campus-wide message wasnt issued:

 On Friday, May 17, at about 2 p.m., a WWU student, called the University Police Department, telling them that they were spat on by someone outside of Old Main. The officer attempted to return the call to the student, as requested, and left a voicemail requesting a call back.

 On Saturday, May 18, after not hearing from the student, the UPD officer called them again. When the student answered, they told the officer they were no longer interested in filing a police report.

 The UPD officer recognized the seriousness of the allegation and documented the incident. In respecting the students wishes, there is not an open criminal case at this time, but UPD is gathering further facts and talking to witnesses to ensure that the incident is documented appropriately and to determine if a crime or hate crime took place.

Pelkey said she believes that some of the criticism of Israel has become antisemitic, especially assertions that Zionism is racism or that the state of Israel has no right to exist. Those statements are considered antisemitic by major Jewish organizations such as the American Jewish Committee, the Anti-Defamation League and the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, whose definition of antisemitism has been adopted by the U.S. State Department.

One of Pelkeys classes was moved online until the end of the year, and another of her professors was holding class inside the protest camp instead of a classroom.

Its sad that this is how I am going to remember college. I feel like theyre just waiting us out, Pelkey said.
Mayor Brandon Johnsons nominee for the Regional Transportation Authority board, West Side pastor Rev. Ira Acree, withdrew himself from consideration Friday after activists and some aldermen argued he was unqualified for the position.

Acree, pastor of Austins Greater St. John Bible Church, is a close ally of Johnsons and a civil rights activist. As his nomination advanced in the City Councils Transportation Committee earlier this month, Acree struggled answering questions about the transit system and its looming financial challenges during a tense hearing.

Johnson pulled back a council vote Wednesday on the Acree pick, saying he wanted to give people more time to have inquiry.

The former nominee described the aldermen who resisted his nomination as so-called allies who are enemies of African American advancement and empowerment in an interview with the Tribune Friday.

These people, they mince every word you say, everything you do. I dont need that. I can find a better use of my time as a civil rights leader and as a pastor, he said.

The RTA is responsible for oversight of Metra, Pace and the Chicago Transit Authority. Board positions generally pay $25,000 a year and require monthly board meetings.

Ald. Scott Waguespack, 32nd, and Ald. Andre Vasquez, 40th, were the lone votes against Acrees appointment in committee. They later cited the pastors lack of transportation experience to explain their opposition.

But Johnson appeared to stick by Acree as recently as Wednesday, when he said after the council meeting that he still supported the pastors nomination.

All of my nominations, whether they are commissioners, other appointments, we are batting one thousand. We are, Johnson said when asked about withdrawing the Acree nomination. The best and brightest, the people who are most connected to the pain, who have solutions.

Acree called Johnson Thursday night to inform him he would no longer pursue the nomination, but wholeheartedly supports the mayors administration, the pastor said. A Johnson spokesperson did not immediately respond when asked about Acrees decision Friday morning.

Acree faced tough questions during his early May committee testimony, which he labeled an interrogation. During the questioning, he described himself as a community leader eager to bring more resources to disinvested neighborhoods on the South and West sides. But he also gave eyebrow-raising responses when presented with specific questions about transit.

When asked when he last rode Chicago Transit Authority buses and trains, Acree answered that he took them as a kid going to school.

As a man, I dont have to use CTA. Im fortunate to have a car, he said. But I use the CTA often when I come downtown because, even though I am a working pastor, these prices, parking tickets are super high.

Later, he was asked about the staggering $730 million budget shortfall facing the regions transportation agencies, a well-publicized crisis approaching as federal COVID-19 relief funds start running out.

Well, No. 1, this is my first time hearing about a $735 million shortfall, so I would not want to respond to that today without doing the research, Acree said.

Acree said Friday that the answer was a misstatement that came long into his hearing, but admitted not knowing the exact number.

I did not know the specific, Ill give you that, he said. But theres always a fiscal cliff with RTA.

He argued that the pushback he received that ultimately led to his decision to not pursue the position has instead prevented the work of racial equity.

I thought itd be a golden opportunity for me to speak up to bring resources back to the South and West Side, he said. These people are supposed to be allies. Its sad. You got to drain the swamp in a Democratic city.

He added that few people on the various boards that govern Chicago would live up to the unprecedented scrutiny he faced as someone without transit experience.

If this was the new standard, wed have to vacate all of the boards  even the vaunted and sacred City Council.

Vasquez on Friday said he showed Acree the questions he planned to ask an hour before the committee meeting where the nominee struggled with his responses. Its unfortunate that Rev. Acree was put in the position he was by the Johnson administration not prepping him for the committee hearing and then pulling his item off the agenda in the City Council meeting, Vasquez said.

In a statement Friday, the RTA said it defers to the appointing authorities and welcomes a diversity of opinion on the Board of Directors.

Acrees nomination and withdrawal came as public transit has faced significant challenges, including the looming budget cliff and frustrations about CTAs ability to provide frequent, reliable, clean and safe service. The challenges have put a spotlight on the future of transit and its leadership, and lawmakers are weighing a proposal in Springfield that would merge the RTA with CTA, Metra and Pace, effectively eliminating the agencies as separate entities.

CTA President Dorval Carter has been in the hot seat as public officials including Gov. J.B. Pritzker have weighed in on his leadership.

In the City Council, a resolution authored by Vasquez calling for Carter to be fired gained support from 29 aldermen, a majority of the 50-member body. Opponents of the effort used a procedural maneuver to stall its progress, likely delaying a vote on it for months.

Ald. William Hall, 6th, said the CTA needs a complete overhaul, but said the resolution is a deeply unfair effort to scapegoat and embarrass Carter.

I would never stand in line to see a public humiliation and a public lynching of someone who does nothing wrong, he said.

jsheridan@chicagotribune.com
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) announced Thursday that Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address a joint session of Congress.

Tonight, Im happy to announce something else to you: that we will soon be hosting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Capitol for a joint session of Congress, Johnson said Thursday during a speech marking Israels independence at an event hosted by the Israeli Embassy.

This will be a timely and I think a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need, he continued.

The Hill reached out to Johnsons office for further details on the exact date, though Johnson told reporters Wednesday he was working with Netanyahu and would send a formal invitation this week, NBC News reported.

The expected joint session follows days of back-and-forth between Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY.) over whether Netanyahu should be permitted to address a joint session of Congress amid harsh criticism over Israels strategy in its war with Hamas in Gaza.

Johnson said Wednesday that he expected Schumer to sign off on Netanyahus visit after he informed the Senate leader he needed to sign the joint invitation, or the House would proceed with inviting the Israeli leader just to the House.

Schumers office told The Hill earlier this month that the Senate leader intends to join the invitation, the timing is being worked out.

The Hill reached out to Schumers office Thursday night for comment.

Some Democrats have already said they plan to skip the speech, including Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), who is Jewish and described Netanyahu as a menace.

I boycotted his last visit. I certainly will not attend this one, she said.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said Wednesday he would boycott any speech by Netanyahu, citing the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where at least 35,000 Palestinians have been killed since early October.

Netanyahu last traveled to the Capitol and addressed Congress in 2015. Several Democrats skipped his speech at the time as a way to protest the Israeli leader, who criticized then-President Obama over the Iran nuclear deal.

Schumers promised support for Netanyahu comes after he called for new elections in the Middle Eastern country and declared Netanyahu had lost his way in a speech on the Senate floor in March.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Jurors in Sen. Bob Menendezs corruption case cannot see evidence prosecutors have called critical to part of their case, a federal judge ruled Friday.

The decision puts a hole in prosecutors ability to prove their central claim: that the New Jersey Democrat took bribes to help send billions of dollars of American military aid to Egypt.

U.S. District Court Judge Sidney Stein said prosecutors could not use evidence they hoped would show Egyptian officials were frantic about not getting their moneys worth, despite bribes Menendez allegedly took to help the country access billions of dollars of American military aid and arms.

Stein found the Constitutions speech or debate clause does not allow prosecutors to show jurors the evidence. The clause grants members of Congress a form of immunity that is mostly impenetrable in investigations relating to the official duties of lawmakers, their aides or other congressional officials.

Coincidentally, Stein based his order on a 1979 Supreme Court case about another New Jersey Democrat accused of corruption. In that case, the high court ruled the speech or debate clause barred prosecutors from introducing certain evidence against Rep. Henry Helstoski, who had been accused of accepting bribes.



Prosecutors had hoped to present the evidence in the Menendez case next week in the form of a summary of the years of text messages, phone records and other documents obtained during a multi-year investigation of the senator, his wife and various associates, including New Jersey business people accused of bribing him.

They wanted to show jurors two series of exhibits. First, 2019 text messages and phone records that allegedly show Menendez sought to assure bribers that he was not holding up military aid to Egypt after Egyptian officials heard he was. Second, a 2022 text message from Menendezs wife about her husband having to sign off on military sales to Egypt, which prosecutors interpreted to mean she was signaling to keep the bribes flowing.

Citing the Helstoski case, Stein said prior holds on foreign military assistance and prior sign-offs are precluded from coming in as evidence.

Before the ruling, prosecutors called the evidence critical to parts of their case. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York declined to comment.

Menendez is also accused of taking other bribes to do other things, which are not immediately affected by Steins ruling.

So, while prosecutors can talk about alleged promises given in exchange for bribes, they cant talk about legislative acts themselves.

Experts on the speech or debate protection for Congress have described this sometimes-awkward dynamic as a feature of the framers vision, not a bug. It is rooted in their desire to prevent members of Congress from being intimidated or coerced by the threat of prosecution from the Executive Branch. Punishing members for their official acts, therefore, can be extremely complicated  by design. This dynamic has frustrated several prosecutions of members of Congress, however, it has not precluded them altogether.

Unlike executive privilege, which shields a presidents private communication, or attorney-client privilege, the speech or debate protection is actually written into the Constitution, making it a far more absolute protection than the others. And though the text only explicitly protects their remarks on the House or Senate floor, it has long been interpreted by the Supreme Court to extend to any acts that are part integral to the legislative process.

Other recent battles over the issue have included a fight over the FBIs seizure of Rep. Scott Perrys cell phone  part of the investigation into Donald Trumps effort to subvert the 2020 election. The ensuing legal fight resulted in the first-ever ruling that members personal cell phones are covered by the speech or debate clause. That, the court ruled, was a natural extension of perhaps the most significant ruling of its kind  a 2007 ruling by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals forcing prosecutors to return some documents seized from the congressional office then-Rep. William Jefferson.

Kyle Cheney contributed to this report.
Judge says Marine vet who allegedly trained Chinese pilots can be extradited

A Sydney judge on Friday ruled that former U.S. Marine Corps pilot Daniel Duggan can be extradited to the United States on allegations that he illegally trained Chinese aviators, leaving the attorney-general as Duggans last hope of remaining in Australia.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss ordered the Boston-born 55-year-old to remain in custody awaiting extradition.

While his lawyers said they had no legal grounds to challenge the magistrates ruling that Duggan was eligible for extradition, they will make submissions to Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus on why the pilot should not be surrendered.

The attorney will give us sufficient time, Im quite sure, to ventilate all of the issues that under the Extradition Act are not capable of being run in an Australian court, Duggans lawyer, Bernard Collaery, told reporters outside court.

Australia to extradite Marine vet who allegedly trained Chinese pilots

Dreyfus office said in a statement the government does not comment on extradition matters.

Duggans wife and mother of his six children, Saffrine Duggan, said the extradition court hearing was simply about ticking boxes.

Now, we respectfully ask the attorney-general to take another look at this case and to bring my husband home, she told a gathering of reporters and supporters outside court.

The pilot has spent 19 months in maximum-security prison since he was arrested in 2022 at his family home in the state of New South Wales.

In a 2016 indictment from the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., unsealed late 2022, prosecutors say Duggan conspired with others to provide training to Chinese military pilots in 2010 and 2012, and possibly at other times, without applying for an appropriate license.

Prosecutors say Duggan received about nine payments totaling around 88,000 Australian dollars ($61,000) and international travel from another conspirator for what was sometimes described as personal development training.

Duggan served in the Marine Corps for 12 years before immigrating to Australia in 2002. In January 2012, he gained Australian citizenship, choosing to give up his U.S. citizenship in the process.

The indictment says Duggan traveled to the United States, China and South Africa, and provided training to Chinese pilots in South Africa.

Duggan has denied the allegations, saying they were political posturing by the U.S., which unfairly singled him out.
Theres only a week and a half until Joann Wellmans rent at Pinewood Park increases beyond her capacity to pay.

The 20-year resident of the mobile home park on Bremerton's east side broke her back last summer, after falling in shock upon reading a notice about pending leases at a new rate. That experience was part of a Kitsap Sun story on Wellman and her neighbors in November 2023. After publication, a group of retired Boeing engineers working as handymen called the Peninsula Support Organization Bluebills arrived and installed a handrail for her to get down the stairs.

At the time, she needed it. But now, her health has declined so much that she cant even use the handrail. Now, she doesn't talk to anyone. She stays inside, confined to her Bremerton home by disability, fear and anxiety that she will be forced out onto the street.

Pinewood Park residents will see their monthly rent increased from $615 to $700 for motorhomes and $850 for mobile homes after their community became the latest purchase of Hurst & Son LLC, a real estate investment company with a headquarters in Port Orchard. The company owns nearly 80 mobile home communities across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and North Dakota, five of them being in Kitsap County. Theyve raised rents up to 55% in Aberdeen, Yakima, Spokane, Bellingham and Moscow, Idaho, tacking on additional expenses like utilities, penalty fees for rule violations, and a water usage cap. At mobile home communities that have for years provided a refuge for seniors living solely on Social Security or other assistance, ownership changes and an increasingly tight real estate market are now pushing residents past the breaking point.

Wellman keeps telling herself shes got to get things sorted out and pack up all of her belongings to prepare for Hurst & Sons new lease and increased rent goes into effect June 1. But her modest home is tidy, and as of mid-May without a cardboard box in sight.

I think about it, Where am I going to put them? and I don't know, Wellman said, sitting in the same spot on the living room couch where shed interviewed six months ago. And then I think, Well, maybe he'll (Hurst & Son) be nice and let me stay, so I did all that packing for no reason. But then, I think, Well, maybe I should anyway, just in case.

Instead, Wellman moves slowly with the help of her son who provides live-in care and sits at the couch beside her walker and a T.V. tray littered with housing resources, a doctors letter, her sons work schedule and blank pages. She waits for June 1 knowing only that she cant afford the new rent, and not where she will go if she cant afford to pay it.

I worry about it every day, if I'm going to have a place to live or not, she said.

Resistance by choice, compliance by default

Wellman, like many of her neighbors, did not sign Hurst & Sons new lease. She won't be immediately evicted for refusing, but she also doesnt exactly know what will come next, leaving some tenants in a near game of chicken with the investment company.

I really don't know. It's either I do (pay the rent) or I get out, said Wellman, whose lease had been month-to-month for the last 20 years she's lived in Pinewood Park, when it was owned by DSR Enterprises. I suppose thats the way they're putting it.

All Wellman knows is that new ownership has come with tighter rules on the exterior appearance of the mobile homes, which she and her son say have resulted in crackdowns on porch chairs, fencing and equipment like a wheelbarrow stored outdoors. Wellman assumes that agreeing to the lease means comply with not only the new rent, but also the new rules.

Joann Wellman is facing a more than 32% increase in her rent at Pinewood Park after investor company Hurst & Son bought the mobile home park this year. After living in Pinewood Park for 20 years, Wellman will have to leave because she can't afford to stay. But she has nowhere to go.

New ownership also asked Wellmans son, David Wellman, who has lived with his mother for the past 14 years, to perform a background check in order to be added to the lease. David works a retail job three or four days a week, trying to bring in money while taking care of his mother and covering household chores. The two feel betrayed by such scrutiny.

Though Wellman said she doesnt know whether shell be evicted when the new lease begins, Hurst & Son field manager, Levi Black said tenants were given a proper 90-day notice in accordance with the states manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act. The new lease agreement, along with the increased rent and responsibility for utilities, will go into effect June 1 whether the tenants have signed their lease or not, and would have had to give the landlord a months notice of their intention to vacate.

Wellman will have to pay $850 now, if she wants to keep her decades-long home. She and David said they cant afford that.

Though the November story did bring Wellman in contact with a community member who wanted to help her with rent for a month or so, and other Hurst & Son tenants experiencing similar situations, an ongoing investigation into Hurst & Son by the Attorney Generals Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution Program has brought Pinewood Park tenants little relief in the face of rents.

The program did, however, determine that some tenants in Hurst & Son mobile home parks hadnt been provided with the required notice of sale and that some had modified lease renewal dates without tenant agreement and imposed rent increases on non-lease renewal dates, actions which the program prosed Hurst & Son revoke and reimburse. The program also determined that Hurst & Son had illegally transferred permanent structure maintenance responsibilities onto tenants and that its $65 penalty fees were excessive and not clearly justified.

The manufactured housing dispute resolution program could not be reached for an update on the investigation upon inquiry from the Kitsap Sun.

They have no right to do this to people, Wellman said. I mean, in June I'll be here 21 years. Now that's hard  just take my home right out from underneath my feet.

Two tenant families have already sold their mobile homes for $10,000 and $45,000, the neighbors reported, and several more are preparing to leave by the end of the month.

Marilyn Warren and her dog Chika stand in the doorway of her motorhome at Pinewood Park in Bremerton on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Marilyn Warren, who the Kitsap Sun spoke with in November, also chose not to sign the new lease, which would raise her rent to $700  almost half of her social security payout a month. She also has no plan to live anywhere else. She cant make one.

I can't go anywhere. There's nowhere to go, she said. It's really scary. It's making me sick. I mean, every morning I wake up crying and I start thinking about it: Where am I going to go? and I can't come up with anything.

Dealing with the daily stress of the unknown

To calm her nerves, Warren prays every morning and turns on Christian music as she lays in bed. She says shes burnt out.

Tenants in the park are hardly a solace to one another. The once communal neighborhood is quiet and no one talks to each other anymore, Warren and Wellman said. So when Warren starts getting upset, she leaves and doesnt come back until after dark.

I can't go anywhere. There's nowhere to go. Marilyn Warren

She walks around the Goodwill and sits in the Best Western lobby reading fiction. As the day gets late, she plays trivia, attends open mic nights and makes friends with the musicians.

That's my life, and it's all to distract me from this, she said. I just forget about it until I come home and then it hits me again, and then I go through the same routine and do it again the next day.

Warren used to love living in Pinewood Park, but now, she can and will speak on end about constant surveillance from the park manager and write-ups for dog dishes mistaken for bowls of oil, Styrofoam planters mistaken for illegal fire pits, fencing, latticework, overgrown blackberry bushes and lawn maintenance.

Wellman feels it too. It takes assistance from her son to get down the two steps into the yard from her back door, but Wellman doesnt want to set foot outside, afraid shell do something wrong, she said. It just made me feel so uncomfortable.

It's all force and rules, like it's a prison camp for old people, Warren said. This country does not care about the seniors. Money is first Who's got the money is the one that gets supported by the laws. The law is not to protect poor people or middle income.

With June 1 approaching, its getting hard for Warren to put off thinking about the possibility of leaving her home in Pinewood Park, where she's lived since 2017. When asked what they would do next, each of the three tenants interviewed by the Kitsap Sun cried.

The housed-to-homeless pipeline

Sandy Richards panhandles by churches, auto repair shops and street corners to make her rent at Olympic View Community, a mobile home park in Olalla.

When she moved to the park in 2005, the rent was $420 a month. Hurst & Son, the same owner as at Pinewood Park, bought the park in 2021 and raised the rent to $700. Richards next lease, starting this summer, will be more than $800 -- and she only receives a fixed income of $933 a month, leaving her to beg for the rest.

Sandy Richards plays with Stormy, her new rescue dog, in front of her mobile home in Olalla. She was homeless only a few years before coming to live in Olympic View Community since 2005, where the monthly rental rates are increasing in June. Now she's afraid of becoming homeless again.

Where am I going to move to? I fear about being homeless, Richards said. She was homeless previously, as well as being addicted to drugs more than 25 years ago. Now her rescue dog, Stormy, sits on a leash beyond her front door, where the Bible's beatitudes are painted. Her previous pets are buried at the edge of a wooded area just across the path behind her unit.

Richards struggles with diverticular colitis and wakes up sick some mornings with pain in her left quadrant. She can only eat soft foods and must always be near a toilet.

I can't be homeless, she said. That will literally cost me my life.

If tenants do not pay their rent or any other charges, like utilities, specified in their new rental agreement within 14 days of written notice to pay or vacate, tenants can be evicted, according to the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act.

The process that is laid out there and in 59.20 (the MHLTA) is the one that we would have to follow, Black said. It's something that we just do have to continue with because we can't make special exceptions and arrangements with each person because then not everybody's being treated equally and fairly it will work for some, it will not work for others. We understand, but again, it's not our goal.

I can't be homeless. That will literally cost me my life. Sandy Richards

Wellman cant sell her home and cant afford any other mobile park or apartment. She has a sister who has dementia who is living with her daughter, but Wellman would only be able to stay there for a day or two.

If they tell me to go, then we're just out in the street with the dog, Wellman said, looking at her 7-year-old rescue. That's it.

Wellman said her recent interview with the Kitsap Sun will be her last. She doesn't want people to see what happens to her and her son after June arrives.

I don't want anybody to know about how hard it is, she said.

A senior's shrinking options

Warren has tried to get into senior housing but has been at the top of the waitlist for two years. When staff attorneys from the Northwest Justice Project visited Pinewood Park in October, they suggested several public housing resources such as Kitsap Community Resources, the Bremerton Housing Authority, Housing Kitsap, Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long-Term Care and Kitsap Veterans Assistance, and relocation assistance with the Washington Department of Commerce. Warren has been met with long or closed waitlists.

Marilyn Warren chats with Rob Soderquist, of Kitsap Mobile Auto Service, outside of motorhome at Pinewood Park in Bremerton on Friday, May 17, 2024. Soderquist was changing the battery in Warrens motorhome.

In 1999 Warren's home in Redding, California, was foreclosed and later destroyed in a fire. At the time she bounced around at temporary living situations before eventually buying her current motorhome, which she drove around for eight years, avoiding the permanent costs of renting a place to park.

It was fun, it was simple, Warren said, but now shes 78 years old and is scared to drive the 27-foot vehicle around. I don't want to live that way anymore.

Warren has been on the lookout for camper vans on Facebook marketplace. If she were to find one under 20 feet in length with a working bathroom, she could swap out her motorhome and go stealth camping, parking in different spots to avoid run-ins with the police. But shes only seen campers listed at five figures  outside her price range.

Buying a mobile home or motorhome and renting a spot at a park used to be a cheap retirement option for seniors in her situation, Warren said, but now climbing expenses have changed how she sees her own life.

These are not poor people. I never considered myself poor in my whole life, Warren said. I could always manage. I never went to welfare or anything. I never had food cards. I raised my daughter by myself. I worked. I made good money. I bought two houses. I did all of that. Now, at this age, I can do nothing.

We'll make it somehow, Warren said through tears as she looked down at the table in a breakfast restaurant along Wheaton Way, just blocks from her home. We'll make it, we'll make it, she reassured herself.

Sorry, I just get so upset.

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: Kitsap mobile home tenants face homelessness due to rent increases
(KRON)  A San Mateo County jury deadlocked for the murder trial of Eriberto Beltran Arenas, the man accused of killing a young mother of three while her 4-year-old child was crying in their apartment.

Prosecutors say Lilliam Orozco Zelaya, 26, was shot to death by her estranged husband on November 6, 2021 while he was enraged that she was cheating. Beltran Arenas allegedly confronted Zelaya inside of her apartment on Bel Mar Avenue in Daly City.

A roommate protected one of Zelayas children by taking the terrified 4-year-old into another room and locking the door, according to the District Attorneys Office. The child was crying when the roommate heard gunshots ring out. The victim was shot twice in the head and once in the leg.

Lilliam Orozco Zelaya (Image via GoFundMe)

Immediately after the killing, the roommate said Beltran Arenas yelled, I killed her because she was slut, learn how sluts die, prosecutors wrote.

Beltran Arenas then broke down a door and pointed his gun at the roommate, as well as the crying 4-year-old child, according to the District Attorneys Office.

After Beltran Arenas left, he called his estranged wifes mother and said he killed the b**ch, according to prosecutors. He was nabbed shortly after by San Francisco Police Department officers. He had 18 firearms registered in his name.

A month-long jury trial was held this May with Judge Jonathan Karesh presiding. Jurors told the judge that their deliberations stalled over questions about if the crime was committed in the heat of passion, or if it was planned with premeditation, the District Attorneys Office said.

5 deaths, few answers: Domestic violence task force formed in San Mateo County

Judge Karesh allowed the defense attorney and prosecutor to deliver a second closing argument. After arguments, jury sent out a note indicating deadlocked, the District Attorneys Office wrote. Five of the jurors said the estranged husband was guilty of first-degree murder, four jurors said second-degree murder, and three jurors said voluntary manslaughter.

The judge responded by declaring a mistrial on Tuesday, dismissed the deadlocked jury, and sent jurors home.

Beltran Arenas, 38, was ordered to return to jail where he is being held in lieu of $11 million. Prosecutors could put him on trial again with a new jury at a later date. The district attorneys retrial decision will be revealed when the accused killer returns to court on June 10.

In the wake of Zelayas violent death, her grieving family wrote on a GoFundMe page, Lilliam Orozco Zelaya was killed by her husband from domestic violence. All three of her children are younger than 10 years old, the page states.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Todd and Francine Turner clutched hands as a courtroom deputy read the first verdict.

Not guilty, the deputy said of the charge against Robert Pooley, one of six counts he faced related to skydiving courses he taught at a center near Lodi.

Then, the deputy read the jurys decision on the second charge: Guilty.

Both of the Turners started to cry. A feeling of panic turned to relief.

Thats all that mattered, Francine Turner said.

A jury on Friday convicted Pooley of wire fraud and identity theft in a federal courtroom in Sacramento. Although he wasnt charged with causing the death of Tyler Turner, 18 in 2016, the young mans fatal fall is what led to Pooley being in court in the first place.

And to the Turners, it brought a feeling of vindication.

Weve fought for eight years, Francine Turner said, and this is finally a victory for Tyler.

Prosecutors accused Pooley of defrauding students while teaching courses on leading tandem skydiving jumps at the Parachute Center in 2016. Pooley had suspended credentials and wasnt supposed to certify students on his own.

He normally taught with Yuri Garmashov, another instructor, who would sign off on the training. But when Garmashov left the country for a few months, Pooley used paperwork pre-filled with Garmashovs signature. Prosecutors argued this was done without Garmashovs permission and was meant to mislead the students.

One of those students was Yong Kwon, 25. The South Korean was one of many students from around the world that traveled to the skydiving center to jump and train, often drawn to its low prices. Pooley taught him when Garmashov was out of the country, but his paperwork still had Garmashovs signature on it.

On Aug. 6, 2016, Kwon led a tandem jump with Tyler Turner, who was skydiving for the first time. During their jump, Kwon had issues with the main and reserve parachutes before he and Tyler Turner slammed into the ground. They became two of at least 28 people who have died at the Parachute Center since 1985, an investigation by The Sacramento Bee found.

Kwons paperwork was not submitted to the proper organizations at the time of the jump, a federal investigation found. That meant he was not certified to lead it, as is required under federal law.

The Turners both directed blame at William Dause, the centers founder and face of the business. The center was raided by federal authorities in 2018, but Dause has not been charged with any crimes related to the incident.

In 2021, prosecutors indicted Pooley. Defense attorneys argued prosecutors were charging Pooley because he was the only person affiliated with the center that they could pin a crime on.

The jury on Friday convicted him on all but one of the charges he faced. U.S. District Court Judge William Shubb later granted a motion by defense attorneys to dismiss two of the charges. That left Pooley guilty on two counts of wire fraud and one count of identity theft.

Pooley is set to be sentenced in August and faces up to 20 years in prison for each of the wire fraud counts. The aggravated identity theft charges each carry a mandatory two-year sentence.

Pooleys defense attorneys plan to keep fighting the remaining guilty charges. Serious questions remain about whether Mr. Pooleys actions were criminal, public defender Mia Crager, said in a statement. While tragic, she added, the deaths of Tyler Turner and Kwon were not relevant to the charges against Pooley.

Attorneys spent much of their closing arguments Thursday trying to convince jurors on the aggravated identity theft counts, which carried extra weight because of the mandatory prison time and were based on Pooleys use of Garmoshovs signature on Kwons paperwork and that of another student.

It was the tool Pooley had to commit the crime, Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Lydon said during her final plea to jurors.

Pooley, she added, hid his suspension to convince potential trainees they could be properly certified by attending his classes. Students would pay $1,000 or more to attend them.

He kept this secret and he lied because he had to keep the cycle of classes going Lydon said.

Crager, during her final argument, said Pooley wasnt intending to dupe students. During the time that Garmashov was away, they received paperwork that had Garmashovs signature on it, saying he had personally examined their training. So, she claimed, the candidates knew it was a lie.

She asked the jury: If Pooley was trying to mislead students, why would he give them the paperwork with Garmashovs signature on it?

He was not trying to hide it, Crager said.

Garmashov testified during trial that it was only after Tyler Turner and Kwon died that he found out Pooley was using his signature while he was gone. And that he told Pooley not to teach courses during that time.

Pooley declined to testify on his behalf.

Yet his defense attorneys insinuated Garmashov had a financial incentive not to fess up about such an arrangement. Crager said he was in on the lie with Pooley, a lie that was not meant for the students. It was for the United States Parachute Association, which licenses skydivers and instructors, but has no real authority other than to revoke or suspend ratings, licenses and memberships that it issues.

Following the deaths of Kwon and Turner, the parachute association launched an investigation. It later required roughly 140 people who attended tandem courses taught by either Pooley or Garmashov to take part in more training.

Garmashov pleaded ignorance. He helped draft a letter, which Pooley signed, and sent it to the parachute association. It said Garmashov did not know Pooley was using his signature to certify students.

But the organization, based in Virginia, wasnt convinced by the letter. It revoked the memberships of Garmashov and Pooley, as well as any licenses and instructor certifications they held. It has not reinstated them.

Garmashov at the time was a world class skydiver, with almost 20 years of experience. Most of his income came from teaching students. He appealed the associations decision and sued the organization, but those efforts didnt restore his qualifications. He turned to truck driving to support himself financially.

With Garmashov on the witness stand Wednesday, defense attorney Mia Crager asked: Dont you want Pooley to be found guilty of stealing your signature so you can show that to the parachute association?

Garmashov replied that he didnt care about Pooley. What I care about is my ratings and my livelihood.

And to get your livelihood back, Crager continued, it would help you if a jury found Pooley had stolen your signature?

I dont know if thats going to help me, Garmashov countered, in one of several tense exchanges between the two during trial.

Albert Berchtold, the parachute associations executive director, watched from inside the courtroom.

Garmashov has not been charged with any crimes related to the case.

During her closing remarks, Lydon reminded the jury that Garmashov had not admitted to giving Pooley permission to use his signature while he was away. Even if he had, she said, it shouldnt matter to the jurors.

His signature, she said, was at the crux of the fraud.

It was an argument that stuck.

I felt like the prosecution put on a well-organized case, Jennifer Nail, the jury forewoman, said after the verdict was read. Even if the signature had been provided, she said, it was used unlawfully. Jurors deliberated roughly six hours Thursday afternoon and Friday morning.

During that time Todd Turner rubbed his fingers over a picture of his son he stores in his wallet. And Francine Turner looked at her sons face on her phones screen saver.

The Turners are no longer married. But they said their sons death allowed them to set aside past disagreements.

To be here together in this moment, Francine Turner said, is very poignant.
KYODO NEWS - May 24, 2024 - 13:52 | All, Japan, World

Japan's government said Friday it has decided to impose sanctions on nine entities based in Russia and a national of the country as well as two Cypriot firms over Moscow's weapons procurements from North Korea amid its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told a press conference that Japan "strongly condemns" arms transfers to Russia from North Korea, which are in violation of related U.N. Security Council resolutions.

"As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, it is extremely important to take actions in coordination with the international community," the top government spokesman said.

Assets in Japan owned by the targeted entities, including shipping firms and military facilities, and a Russian business person will be frozen, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

In a joint statement in February, the leaders of the Group of Seven countries condemned the shipment of North Korean ballistic missiles to Russia, calling on Pyongyang and Moscow to "immediately cease such activities."

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Japan, in lockstep with the other G7 members, has imposed asset freezes on Russian President Vladimir Putin, his subordinates and the nation's central bank.
Black Lives Matter co-founder Melina Abdullah protests the presence of City Councilmember Kevin de Leon at the council meeting at Los Angeles City Hall on Jan. 17, 2023. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times)

A Los Angeles civil jury ruled against Black Lives Matter-L.A. co-founder Melina Abdullah on Thursday, finding that two police officers were not liable for their response to a reported hostage situation in her home that turned out to be a false alarm.

Abdullah alleged that law enforcement's response to the so-called swatting incident  which involved deploying officers with guns at the ready to her doorstep  was an act of intimidation in response to her high-profile advocacy against police violence.

Attorneys for the city countered that police merely were acting on the information they had at the time, which was that a caller had demanded $1 million or he would shoot the three people hed taken hostage inside Abdullah's home.

Read more: LAPD seeks to fire a senior captain over relationship with 911 dispatcher

Abdullah was accused of seeking preferential treatment, and jurors heard portions of an Instagram livestream she broadcast during the incident in which she asked her followers to contact two City Council members she was friends with and asked police, "Do you know who I am?"

In an interview after the verdict, Abdullah called the jury's decision "dispiriting and disappointing and not surprising," and the result of "an unjust system" protecting itself.

Her attorneys said they plan to appeal.

The 911 caller in the August 2020 incident that sparked the lawsuit spoke in a pronounced Southern accent and called himself "Dale Brooks." In response to his hostage threat, police dispatched more than a dozen officers from the nearby Wilshire Division to Abdullah's home, along with a helicopter, her attorneys said. They alleged that LAPD ignored signs of a hoax. The caller said he wished to send a message that BLM is a bunch of retards.

Emails to the city attorney's office and to the two police officers named in the suit were not immediately returned.

The LAPD response to the 911 call, which came after a summer of anti-police-brutality protests that Abdullah helped organize as a leader of Black Lives Matter, drew widespread outrage, including from multiple city officials who called for an investigation.

Read more: LAPD video shows officers shoot mentally ill man seconds after entering K-town home

Abdullah criticized Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Rupert Byrdsong for what she said was an attempt to "criminalize" her supporters, who packed the courtroom every day.

On several occasions, Byrdsong paused the proceedings to admonish audience members for what he saw as disruptions in the court gallery. Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies were stationed outside the courtroom in response, and use of phones inside was restricted. Deputies also blocked off the front row of seats with yellow crime scene tape, limiting capacity.

"I think that also tainted the jury and gave them the impression that Black Lives Matter and their supporters somehow was a danger to them," she said.

She said the judge refused to allow the introduction of evidence showing that she was the victim of other swatting calls, including on the day after she announced her lawsuit against the city.

The trial's five days of testimony included some tense exchanges.

During cross-examination of Abdullah, Assistant City Atty. Christian Bojorquez pointed out that she didn't suffer any physical harm during the incident.

"Did any officers shoot you?" he asked.

"So did you want me to respond to that or is this court drama?" Abdullah said, and she asked whether the line of questioning was meant to be "further traumatizing."

"So you're traumatized by the questions that I'm asking you here in court?" Bojorquez responded.

Read more: 'Never happened before': Key oversight officials leave as LAPD searches for chief

Bojorquez later played video from Abdullah's livestream on Instagram, which captured her laughing as she walked back toward her house after speaking to officers. He commented that it didn't appear as though she had suffered any great trauma, as her lawsuit claimed. She said that everyone responded to trauma differently, including in ways such as laughter that are in contrast with the gravity of the moment.

Abdullah said Thursday that the questioning she faced was the continuation of a larger pattern of harassment and intimidation.

"It was beyond disrespectful, it was berating, it was dehumanizing," she said. "I think we were reminded that even with a lawsuit you're asking an unjust system to hold itself accountable, because the court absolutely permitted that to happen."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Jury in trial of tech CEO Fahim Saleh's killer hears grisly 911 call: 'His head is not there anymore!'

An ex-personal assistant accused in the Gokada CEO's 2020 murder is on trial in NYC.

Tyrese Haspil was in the throes of "extreme emotional disturbance," his lawyer told jurors Friday.

Jurors then heard the 911 call of a cousin who discovered Fahim Saleh's remains in his apartment.

A Manhattan jury on Friday heard the harrowing 911 call of a woman who discovered the dismembered body of her cousin, Gokada ride-share CEO Fahim Saleh.

"Oh my God. Oh my God," the woman cries in the 911 call, after finding Saleh's torso facing up in a pool of blood on his living room floor.

"Is he breathing?" the operator asks, to which the woman sobs, "No! His head is missing, his arms are missing, and his legs are missing!"

Saleh, a Bangladeshi-American, was an admired international entrepreneur who had made millions through Gokada, his Nigeria-based motorbike ride-share and delivery service.

Manhattan prosecutors say the tech entrepreneur was murdered and sawed into pieces in July, 2020 by Tyrese Haspil, his embezzling former personal assistant, who acted after weeks of planning.

Security footage  undisputed by the defense  shows Haspil shocking his victim from behind with a Taser as the elevator doors open into Saleh's seventh-floor condominium.

"There was quite a struggle," prosecutor Linda Ford told jurors of Saleh's death by multiple stab wounds.

Tyrese Haspil, accused of the 2020 Manhattan murder-dismemberment of tech CEO Fahim Saleh, with lawyer Sam Roberts, right. Alan Chin/Insider

The defense concedes that Haspil, 25, stole from and then killed and dismembered his ex-boss.

But Haspil suffered an extreme emotional disturbance during the weeks it took to plan, execute, and try to cover up the killing, defense lawyer Sam Roberts told jurors in opening statements Friday.

That "disturbance" lay latent after Haspil's traumatic childhood  and was then triggered by the thought of losing his girlfriend, Marine Chavaux, who was soon to return to her native France, Roberts said.

Realizing that his $400,000 embezzlement had been discovered, but desperate to lavish more gifts on Chavaux in time for her 22nd birthday, a "disturbed" Haspil believed his only options were "suicide or homicide," Roberts told jurors.

Selling this defense may prove a tall order. Prosecutors say Haspil had purchased his Taser a full month before the murder and spent the three days after the murder methodically dismembering his victim and shopping with his victim's credit card at luxury retail stores.

Also on Friday, jurors saw photos of a shopping bag from Christian Louboutin that police recovered from the $18,000-a-month Airbnb where Haspil was arrested.

If the jury believes Haspil's defense, he'd be guilty of manslaughter instead of murder, and would face as little as five years in prison.

The 911 tape

"Miss? Miss? Who's the ambulance for?" the 911 operator asks Saleh's cousin in the recording played Friday.

Prosecutors have referred to the cousin only as "Person 1" in court papers. Business Insider is withholding her name for privacy.

"Fahim Saleh!" she answers between gasps.

"For who?" the operator asks, unable to understand her.

"Fahim Saleh!" the cousin shouts again. "Oh my God. Oh my God."

"Miss, OK, take a deep breath," the operator can be heard telling her.

"His body!" the cousin sobs. "His body is dismembered!"

Fahim Saleh embraces a friend File photo

This is the point where the operator, apparently having trouble understanding, asks if the patient is breathing, and the cousin tells her that Saleh's head, arms, and legs are missing.

"They like  I can't  they like, they cut it off," the cousin sobs.

"Who cut it off?" asked the operator, who has meanwhile dispatched first responders to the scene.

"I don't know!" the cousin gasps. "I just came to check in on him."

"It's just you there, right?" the operator asks.

"I left because honestly it looked  there's just like black garbage bags everywhere," the cousin answers.

Prosecutors told jurors that these bags held Saleh's head and limbs.

"There was an electric saw next to his body," the cousin then tells the operator.

A crime scene photo showing tech CEO Fahim Saleh under attack by his killer just inside the victim's Manhattan condominium. Clerk's office, Manhattan Supreme Court

"OK, they're already on their way," the operator says. "OK? Just stay on the line with me. OK? Just try to take deep breaths," she says, before adding  apparently still confused  "So he's passed away though, correct?"

"His head is not there anymore!" the cousin exclaims, breaking into fresh sobs.

"His head is cut off?" asks the now shocked-sounding operator. "Yes," the cousin tells her. "His head is not here."

"They're coming. They're coming," the 911 operator consoles the cousin. "Do you want to wait outside?"

"I can wait inside the lobby," the cousin answers. "Honestly, what if they come back and take his body?"

Extreme-emotional-disturbance defenses are usually reserved for sudden acts of violence, though there are exceptions.

In 2014, wealthy Manhattan socialite Gigi Jordan was found guilty of first-degree manslaughter, not murder, after poisoning her eight-year-old autistic son. Her lawyers argued she acted under extreme emotional distress as she planned and executed the boy's death.

The prosecution case against Haspil continues next week.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Gov. Jim Justice presents the proclamation to end the state of emergency during his Friday news briefing. (Screenshot from Gov. Jim Justices briefing)

Gov. Jim Justice on Friday signed a proclamation to end the emergency declaration put in place two years ago for the states overcrowded and understaffed prisons and jails.

The end of the declaration means that moving forward, and for the first time since August 2022, members of the West Virginia National Guard will no longer be staffing the states correctional facilities.

Since he made the declaration  his second for the states jails and prisons since he was elected in 2016  Justice said during his weekly news briefing Friday that 731 National Guard members rotated through shifts at 17 of the states correctional facilities.

Today is a huge day in West Virginia from the standpoint of our contribution from the National Guard, Justice said during the briefing. In the face of real adversity in corrections, 731 members of the National Guard stepped up and gave us, without any hesitation, tireless effort.

Bill Crane, adjutant general for the West Virginia National Guard, said the highest number of Guardsmen in the facilities at one time was 432.

The emergency declaration came in August 2022 amid severe staffing shortages at the states overcrowded jails and prisons. Several lawsuits have been filed against the state by both current and former inmates alleging inhumane conditions and abuse from staff.

Justice said Friday that  following a pay raise approved by the Legislature during last years special session for correctional officers and other state employees  staffing conditions in the states jails are improving.

Since January, Justice said, 238 people have graduated from the states corrections academy with plans to work full time in the jails and prisons. Among those, Crane said, are 38 members of the National Guard who have or will transition to correctional jobs.

This is proof [of] how we get the job done: we pull the rope together, Justice said. There have been recruitment efforts, theres been pay raises and at the end of the day, weve made real progress.

Jail officials have said that part of the challenge with recruiting and retaining workers in corrections is due to surrounding states offering higher pay for the same work. Justice said Friday that the state must ensure to compensate its employees enough for them to keep working within the state of West Virginia.

While lawmakers last year approved increasing the pay scale for uniformed workers, a bill that would have done the same for non-uniformed staff died in committee during this years regular session.

During interim meetings earlier this week, state Corrections Commissioner William Marshall told lawmakers that the vacancy rate for uniformed workers in the states prisons and jails has dropped to 12%. The rate for non-uniformed employees, however, still sits at about 20%.

I think it has a lot to do with obviously the pay to retain, but also with the ability to have the  difference in training, where they dont have the obligation to be at the academy like they once were, Marshall said.

Justice was clear on Friday that while improvements have been made, the work wasnt done.

Weve made plenty of progress, we need to celebrate what weve done but we dont need to sit on our laurels and think everything is just going to work out because at the end of the day, this is an obligation we have, Justice said. These people work in surely a tough environment and everything and we want to be able to compensate them to where, goodness gracious, were just not training for other states.

The post Justice ends emergency declaration for West Virginias jails and prisons appeared first on West Virginia Watch.
Justice says ongoing investigation into death of 14-year-old will determine what went wrong

During Gov. Jim Justice's Friday, May 24, 2024 press briefing, he said an ongoing investigation will try to determine if West Virginia State Police or Child Protective Services could have done more to intervene before the death of a Boone County teen. (Screenshot from Gov. Jim Justices briefing)

Questions remain about what went wrong in the states interaction with 14-year-old Kyneddi Miller before she was found dead in a skeletal state in her Boone County home.

On Friday, Gov. Jim Justice said an ongoing investigation will try to determine if West Virginia State Police or Child Protective Services could have done more to intervene before the childs death.

The Republican governor acknowledged that people could be fired as a result, but couldnt comment on specifics of the investigation.

Theres a good part that Im not supposed to tell, Justice said during his virtual briefing. I care about proper justice for Kynnedi.

Police discovered the girls emaciated body in April. Her mother and two grandparents have been charged with felony child neglect causing death. The teen was being homeschooled.

West Virginia State Police shared a document and audio saying that they made a referral to CPS about the girl in March 2023.

The Department of Human Services, which oversees CPS, said that the WVSP referral was never made and cannot be located within department records.

While WVSP hasnt released a public statement about the case, WSAZ reported that state police confirmed that a trooper made the CPS referral in person at the Boone County health department.

Theres an officer that says that he drove  I guess his personal vehicle or whatever  and he drove to the offices and went in and made that report, Justice said during his virtual briefing. At the same time, theres no evidence that I can uncover so far that a report was made.

Theres nothing that triggered [DoHS] to go to the house, he added.

Justice also acknowledged that he had conversations with DoHS about their incomplete database system, known as WV PATH. The system was meant to allow employees to more efficiently track and view data and improve child welfare outcomes.

Lawmakers said during the legislative session that DoHS hadnt finished PATHs implementation despite a 2017 contract for it. The agency spent $73 million on the project as of 2023, when it was expected to be completed.

There will be real improvements that will be made, but it cant help Kynnedi, Justice said. We will absolutely make improvements and clean up deficiencies.

DoHS has shared limited, then contradictory, information about the case, leading Justice to walk back his comments that CPS knew nothing about Kynnedi prior to her death.

Cynthia Persily, DoHS secretary, said in a statement on May 21 that DoHS wasnt involved in the childs life, then went on to say that previous CPS cases in 2009 and 2017 to the same home [had] nothing to do with the death of this young lady.

Neighbors also said that they called CPS about Kynnedi prior to her death.

As DoHS has stonewalled information about the case, Justice touted his administrations transparency and encouraged reporters to contact any and everybody who you want to contact and ask whatever questions because thats the way it needs to be.

He told reporters, Theres no point in asking me about this every 15 minutes because I dont have these reports coming to me every 15 minutes. We will continue to dig and continue to investigate in every way.

Justice also encouraged people who suspect child abuse or neglect to call the Centrailized Intake for Abuse Neglect Hotline at 1-800-352-6513.

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The post Justice says ongoing investigation into death of 14-year-old will determine what went wrong appeared first on West Virginia Watch.
(Bloomberg) -- Vice President Kamala Harris is increasingly endearing herself to swing-state voters, a development that if it persists, stands to neutralize Republican attacks around Joe Bidens age.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Nearly half of swing-state voters, 48%, say they trust Harris to fulfill the duties of the presidency if Biden were no longer able to serve, according to a Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll conducted in early May. The reading marks the highest level of confidence since the survey was first conducted in October.

In recent months, Harris  the first woman, Black or Asian vice president  has held a series of high-profile events that resonate with key parts of the Democratic base. They include a historic visit to a Minnesota abortion clinic, a nod to the rollback of federal reproductive rights that has galvanized women voters, and an impassioned speech at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, a landmark of the Civil Rights era. Harris and the administration have also leaned into detailing her personal arc and record in public office.

Republicans have sought to attack Bidens fitness for a second term by casting her as unprepared to take his place. Polling shows voters are more concerned about the fitness of Biden, 81, for office than Donald Trump, four years younger at 77.

It would be foolish to think that voters arent thinking a little more about who the vice president is and whether shes capable of taking over, said political scientist Christopher Devine, who co-authored a book about vice presidential candidates.

Still, despite voters uptick in confidence in Harris, she trailed Trump by 7 percentage points in a hypothetical head-to-head, wider than the 4-point advantage Trump held over Biden in the poll.

The poll showed Harris as the top choice among those considered Democratic rising stars if Biden were unable to continue his campaign. That list includes Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.

Warming sentiment toward Harris was on display at a recent stop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a key swing state. During an on-stage interview with the vice president, comedian D.L. Hughley unexpectedly apologized.

I have to say that Im sorry, Hughley told Harris. I had let a media narrative co-opt my perspective, and I think that tends to happen with women and people of color.

Hughley, who met privately with Harris in November, explained that he was critical of her time as a prosecutor in California, where he grew up and Harris spent her early political career. But, he said, some of the things that I have subsequently come to learn about you, not only make me proud of you, but make me be an advocate.

Biden defeated Harris in the 2020 Democratic primary before choosing her as a running mate. Her vice presidency got off to an uneven start with Republicans pouncing on her gaffes.

Over the last year, the White House has deployed her on the offensive to counter political opponents, condemning book bans and new reproductive health restrictions. Harris frequently appears in front of audiences of color and young voters, which polls show are among the most disillusioned blocs of the Democratic base. Last week, she went viral online when she encouraged an audience of young Asian Americans to kick that f door down in pursuit of their careers.

The vice president has made more trips to competitive Western and Southern states than Biden this year, particularly North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada. Each has a high percentage of Latino or Black voters.

She is engaging communities that have not been engaged, US Senator Laphonza Butler, a California Democrat, said in an interview.

Trump leads Biden 48% to 44% across the seven swing states, according to the poll. His lead over Biden is widest in North Carolina, Arizona and Georgia. Theyre tied in Nevada.

Read More: Half of Swing-State Voters Fear Violence Around US Election

Among possible White House aspirants, Harris led with 45% of swing-state voters supporting her if Biden dropped out before November. Whitmer and Buttigieg were the next at 36%, followed by Newsom at 32%, Moore at 23% and Pritzker at 21%.

Meanwhile, if Trump were unable to continue his campaign, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who Trump beat in the GOP primary, was the top alternative at 40%. Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, the runner-up to Trump in the Republican primary, was at 38%.

Trump hasnt yet chosen a running mate. Once he does, Harris will no longer be measured against an abstraction or an ideal of what a vice president should be, vice-presidential scholar Joel Goldstein said. Shes going to be measured or viewed as against whoever he picks.

Harris events are often shaped by closed-door conversations with individuals outside her orbit, according to a person familiar with the strategy.

Earn Your Leisure podcast hosts Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings joined Hughley, along with rapper Fat Joe and other influential men, for dinner at Harris residence in November, according to people familiar with the event.

The discussion, along with a gathering of young entrepreneurs of color last May, help spur ideas for Harris Economic Opportunity tour underway. The podcasting duo moderated the first stop in Atlanta last month.

The tour aims to reach Black men  who Trump and Republicans are courting  by emphasizing resources to build wealth.

She can connect more readily with the audience thats most problematic for Democrats than almost anyone else can, Cornell Belcher, a Democratic pollster, said. I would argue that is a really smart way to use her.

--With assistance from Gregory Korte.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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In a crowd of people holding up their signs, one stands out. It reads, "I stand with her!" (Margaret Mellott/Kansas Reflector)

Protestors hold signs at a June 24, 2022, rally in Kansas City, Missouri, after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe. v. Wade. Kansas has become one of few states in the region to offer abortion services, leading to a surge in out-of-state patients. (Margaret Mellott/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  One of the regions few abortion providers has stopped services, citing staff and protocol changes for what it says will likely be an extremely short-lived hiatus.

Even the temporary halt could disrupt the regions fragile network of providers, many of whom have faced increased demand and struggle to keep up with demand in the wake of federal overturn of Roe v. Wade.

The Wichita-based Trust Women clinic will resume services after hiring a new medical director, according to Sapphire Garcia, who became the organizations president May 13. Garcia said she was optimistic that a new medical director could be quickly secured.

We dont have a specific timeframe, Garcia said. We are really hopeful that this will be extremely short-lived. And to that end, were working to get a qualified medical director in place. We have been consulting with experts on clinical structure, and were working as quickly as we can to get those things in place.

Garcia said the hiatus was a decision made proactively, not under duress  despite reporting from Rewire News Group alleging staff controversy over recent firings and questions about the former medical directors qualifications led to mass resignation. Garcia, known as the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Kansas Birth Justice Society, assumed her position little more than a week before the news broke.

Nothing nefarious has happened, Garcia said. But anytime an organization goes through a transition like this in leadership, its prudent to stop and pause and reflect on the resources that we currently have, what we might need, and to take that pause before moving ahead.

The Trust Women Foundation Board of Directors released a statement Thursday saying new protocols have been put in place, such as requiring a medical director with abortion experience be present when abortions are performed. The board said changes in personnel would not be addressed due to privacy concerns, a message echoed by Garcia.

We are committed to those who seek abortion care, particularly where access is a barrier and we insist that patients receive not only competent care but care delivered in a responsible and equitable way, read the statement.

Since the federal overturn of abortion protections in 2022, Kansas has become one of the few sanctuaries in the region for abortion seekers.

A Kansas Supreme Court ruling in 2019 determined the states constitutional right to bodily autonomy includes the right to terminate a pregnancy, and Kansas voters in August 2022 overwhelmingly rejected a proposed constitutional amendment to eliminate that right.

Abortions in the state are generally allowed up to 22 weeks of gestation, and abortion seekers from out of state have flocked into Kansas for services. The states last released abortion survey showed a large increase in out-of-state abortion seekers for 2022.

The Wichita clinic served more than 4,000 patients in 2023, a majority of whom came from out of state, according to its report. With Trust Women temporarily halting services, patients will be routed to other providers. Kansas has five other centers that provide abortions.

Kansas is an island of access in a sea of no access, Garcia said. And so the stakes are high here. We understand that.

The post Kansas abortion clinic halts services, with no set date to restart appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Kansas City council members debate if they should vote on resolutions concerning Gaza

Some Kansas City council members asked Thursday night how they should vote to ensure they will never be asked to comment on events in Gaza again.

A tiff over a resolution recognizing the deadly attack by Hamas in Israel on Oct. 7 sparked debate about the councils role in supporting a ceasefire in Gaza, which has been under fire by Israel in the months following the attack.

Were spending a lot of time on something that doesnt have any place in these chambers, councilman Kevin ONeill said. Were not picking sides, and thats why I would vote to refrain from voting on this. Its just not our role.

Initially, Thursdays agenda included a ceasefire resolution and a resolution honoring the Palestinian American Medical Association. Both were special actions, which are used symbolically to recognize people, accomplishments and events.

In response, councilman Nathan Willett wrote a special action to recognize the killing of Jews by agents of Hamas on Oct. 7. The language would have been added to a previous resolution condemning antisemitism.

A few of my fellow council members want to turn KC City Hall into what we have seen on college campuses all around the country these past few months, Willett wrote on Facebook Thursday morning.

The ceasefire item was pulled from the agenda, after Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told KCMO Talk radio Thursday morning that he planned to vote it down.

With respect to all voices, we are here to legislate for the people of Kansas City for real-life solutions that we can control, Lucas wrote on his personal X account, formerly Twitter. I value all views, but cannot support the dueling messaging items on todays City Council docket.

The ceasefire resolution, which was sponsored by councilman Eric Bunch, also called for humanitarian aid to Gaza. PAMA requested that the resolution in their honor be withdrawn.

This decision was made in order to protect PAMAs monumental humanitarian medical efforts in Palestine from unnecessary discrimination, PAMA wrote in a Tuesday news release.

Willetts resolution stayed on the agenda. He tried to withdraw it, calling it unnecessary if the council was no longer voting on calling for a ceasefire.

Instead, council members voted Willetts resolution down permanently, signaling future actions related to Gaza and the Israel-Hamas war could meet the same fate.

Some council members said they didnt feel it was their place  or their job  to weigh in on Gaza and the Israel-Hamas war at all.

I have a longstanding practice that I as a council member am not going to weigh in on international and geopolitical conflicts, councilman Crispin Rea said. I am simply not going to break my own rule to vote on something that, quite frankly, we have no impact on.

Others feel the city council has a moral imperative to act, even symbolically.

These issues  we cant hide from them, Councilman Jonathan Duncan said. Theyre affecting our people right here, right now  whether youre Jewish, whether youre Palestinian.

Eight council members voted down the resolution to recognize the events of Oct. 7. Five abstained.

City staffers have received thousands of emails urging the Kansas City council to call for a ceasefire, Duncan said.

Ive never experienced such amazing hope from people who have experienced such extreme loss, Bunch said, describing a meeting with Palestinian residents. All Im suggesting is that we have a conversation about tricky, troubling issues.

More than 100 American cities have passed local resolutions calling for a ceasefire in Gaza as of March, according to National Public Radio.

Along with the city council, Kansas City protestors have urged U.S. Reps Sharice Davis and Emmanuel Cleaver II to call for a ceasefire in recent months.

Al-Hadaf KC, a pro-Palestine advocacy group, called the councils aversion to resolutions surrounding Gaza regrettable.

Councilwoman Andrea Bough also said a special action to recognize Oct. 7 would not interact productively with the councils previous resolutions against antisemitism.
Kansas Highway Patrol fines driver for going over 100 mph

ELLIS COUNTY, Kan. (KSNW)  The Kansas Highway Patrol has fined a driver for going over 100 mph.

According to the ticket posted to Facebook by Trooper Tod KHP Hays, Kansas, the driver was going 102 mph in a 60 mph speed zone.

Guess how many people drive over 100 mph in Kansas

The area the driver was in was a construction zone in Ellis County.

Driving 102 mph through them greatly increases the risk of a crashnot to mention a very hefty fine since we have to double it! said Trooper Tod.

The driver was fined $750 for exceeding maximum speed limits and a $108 docket fee, totaling $858.

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JUNCTION CITY (KSNT)  A school district based out of Junction City is offering students free food for lunch during the month of June this year.

Geary County Schools, USD 475, announced it will be serving free lunches to students between the ages of 1 and 18 starting on Monday, June 3 and ending on Friday, June 28. This offer is available at Milford Elementary, Seitz Elementary and Lincoln Elementary.

USD 475 spokesman Matthew Hoover says the district will offer grab and go heat and eat food starting Monday, July 1 and running through Friday, July 19. Students will be able to pick these up from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Seitz Elementary and Lincoln Elementary. Food will not be served on Wednesday, June 19 along with July 4-5.

New principal revealed for Manhattan elementary school

For more information, Hoover says you can reach out to Shelly Gunderson at michellegunderson@usd475.org.

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.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
KYODO NEWS - May 25, 2024 - 00:27 | All, Japan

China continued Friday its large-scale military drills surrounding Taiwan for a second day, testing its ability to "seize control of crucial areas" and increasing pressure on the self-ruled island's new leader Lai Ching-te.

The two-day exercises involving China's army, navy, air and rocket forces followed Monday's inauguration of Lai, whom Beijing denounces as a separatist. Dozens of warplanes as well as destroyers and escort ships have been deployed from the mainland, according to state-run China Central Television.

Taiwan's Defense Ministry said it had detected 62 Chinese military aircraft, and a total of 27 navy and China Coast Guard vessels operating near the island on Friday.

The Chinese military's Eastern Theater Command, which covers the Taiwan Strait, has said the drills are being held as a "strong punishment" for those seeking the island's independence and a "stern warning" against interference and provocation by external forces.

Senior Col. Wu Qian, a spokesman of China's Defense Ministry, accused Lai of "seriously challenging the one-China principle" and striving for independence by relying on external forces, "pushing the Taiwan compatriots toward the danger of war."

"This is totally an act of playing with fire, and those who play with fire will end up getting burned," he warned.

The United States on Thursday urged China to act with restraint, with a State Department spokesperson saying in an email to Kyodo News that Beijing's "actions risk escalation and erode long-standing norms that have maintained regional peace and stability for decades."

In his inaugural speech, Lai called Taiwan a "sovereign, independent nation" and insisted that it and the mainland are "not subordinate to each other" while vowing to maintain the status quo in their relations.

Hsieh Chang-ting, representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, criticized China's military drills at a Tokyo press conference on Friday, saying they "destroy the stability of the Asia-Pacific region and escalate tensions."

"If Taiwan falls, it means a defeat for democracies in the world," said the island's de facto ambassador to Japan, calling for support from the international community.

In Taipei, citizens were generally calm and continued business as usual despite the Chinese military drills.

A 79-year-old former doctor who took part in a protest against controversial bills that would expand the legislature's power said the island's people have dismissed threats from the mainland because they "have a high degree of democratic literacy."

China conducted large-scale military drills encircling Taiwan in August 2022 as well as April and August last year in response to contacts between high-ranking officials of the United States and the island.

Su Tzu-yun, director at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, a Taiwanese think tank, pointed out that China's military drills this time are shorter and more limited in scale compared with the three exercises in recent years, signaling Beijing's intention "to avoid a backlash and protests from many countries."

The latest drills, for instance, do not cover Japan's exclusive economic zone, which was included in the August 2022 exercises in response to a visit to Taiwan by then U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Tokyo lodged a protest with Beijing as some of the ballistic missiles fired by China at that time fell into Japan's EEZ, located east of Taiwan.

However, with the ongoing drills triggering expressions of concern from Japan, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations, China's strategy appears not to have worked, Su told Kyodo News in a telephone interview.

The director also suggested that the exercises, ostensibly aimed at "punishing Taiwan," were actually conducted because of domestic pressure in the country to shift the focus away from its slumping economy.

Communist-led China and Taiwan have been governed separately since they split as the result of a civil war in 1949. Beijing aims to bring the island into its fold, by force if necessary.

Related coverage:

China conducts military drills around Taiwan as "punishment"

China ramps up criticism of Taiwan's Lai over inaugural speech

China rebukes Japan, U.S. for congratulating new Taiwan leader
Clement Attlee (centre) winning in 1945. The post-war Prime Minister explained why he wanted power. Keir Starmer has not yet done so - Bettmann

Could Sir Keir Starmer be Clement Attlee and could July 2024 be July 1945? That is the hope of the Labour Party: now, as then, a landslide general election victory, after 14 years of Tory-dominated government, for a party led by a moderate and public-spirited man, who, in Sir Keirs own words about himself, doesnt do the tribal stuff.

The comparison is not obviously idiotic. The two men have similarities  born in Surrey, bourgeois backgrounds, well-educated barristers, boring speakers. If he becomes prime minister, Sir Keir will be 61. At the same moment, Attlee was 62. It all feels reassuringly respectable.

Yet the differences between the two men are instructive. The defining experiences of Attlees life were as an Army officer throughout the First World War (breaking with his brothers pacifism), his close encounters with poverty and the politics of poverty in east London over four decades, and his role in the Second World War coalition as deputy prime minister to Winston Churchill, whom he consistently admired.

Out of all this emerged his well-grounded (if misguided) set of beliefs about economic and social reform and an unchallengeable patriotism. With victory in Europe just achieved in 1945, Attlee could lead a party which offered a new social contract to a war-battered people. In doing so, he could rely on the highest level of public trust in our history.

With Sir Keir, the case is different. Obviously, it is not his fault that he has never fought in a war and has not yet been in government. But it is significant that, whereas Attlee early abandoned his career in the law to minister to the London poor, and rose in politics by doing so, Sir Keir built his main career in the sort of law which is itself political  everything to do with the doctrines of international human rights.

For Attlee, Gallipoli, Stepney and Limehouse were the crucible of his political beliefs and Westminster was the place to act upon them. For Sir Keir, his legal/political heart is with Strasbourg (home of the European Court of Human Rights) and Brussels.

One senses he knows this is an electoral problem, especially among poorer voters. In his opening campaign interview with the BBCs Mishal Husain, he kept talking about the way I think, yet never disclosed what that way is. He must fear that, if he did, voters would not like it.

It is true that no modern society can function without large numbers of well-trained lawyers, but Britain, in particular, has traditionally understood the difference between the rule of law (good) and the rule of lawyers (not so good). In Sir Keirs view, the world will be safe only if the lawyers are in charge.

Normally, when a party wins a landslide, it is because it convincingly offers change. The key victories since the Second World War were achieved by doing so: Labour in 1945, the Conservatives in 1979 (Mrs Thatchers assault on state socialism and Western weakness in the Cold War), Labour in 1997 (Blairs Third Way) and the Tories in 2019 (Johnsons Get Brexit Done).

Change, of course, is also Sir Keirs cry  the sole word, indeed, on his placards. He has the massive advantage that so many voters want a change from the Conservatives, but what change is he offering? In 1945, Attlee had earned the authority to explain what Labour change would mean. Hence his landslide. That is not the situation today.

This lack of analysis of our true situation is not a uniquely Labour problem. It afflicts all our parties. As the campaign begins, ones overriding sense is that evasion has dominated our politics for years.

It would be nice  but surprising  if this election were to change that. I felt positive pleasure at the news that the wash-up following the calling of the election means that several government Bills have fallen. One was Rishi Sunaks smoking ban. Another was Michael Goves extraordinary attack on private rented housing. How did a Conservative government ever fall for such distractions?

Here at home, we have weak economic growth, poor public finances, massive welfare bills, failing public services, ill-controlled, large-scale immigration, and poorly drafted, gesture-led legislation.

We are taught to revere the NHS, yet are plagued by its crises  the need to protect it, rather than us, as soon as Covid struck; the 40-year infected blood scandal; the recent ideological unprofessionalism revealed by the Cass Review on trans services; the selfish strikes of the junior doctors. Still politicians dare not address its innate inadequacies.

Across the world are problems of public spending, government and personal debt, and the shakiness of banks and financial systems. These, which have weakened all of us in the West, form a backdrop to the rise of tyrannies which are waging full-scale war against another country (Russia against Ukraine) or threatening war against a nation which dares to act democratically (China against Taiwan, intensifying the threat only this week), or supporting terrorism against another state (Iran arming and directing Israels enemies).

We and our allies suffer directly the outworkings of this extremism and instability in our homelands  high energy prices, Russian and Chinese spies, cyber-attacks and social media campaigns, Chinese infiltration of leading universities, Islamist/hard-Left Gaza marches and student encampments which capture the public space and threaten Jews.

We also suffer a cultural attrition against our free way of life, manifested in social media, decolonisation and politicisation of the Civil Service and the workplace. Sir Keir, who will be our first declaredly atheist prime minister if he wins, pays no obeisance to God, but took the knee to Black Lives Matter. The Conservatives were only slightly less cringing.

It is extraordinary how reluctant political leaders have been to join up the dots of danger. Instead, they have preferred to concoct the emergency of climate change. The issue may well be serious, but an emergency it is not. The arbitrary 2050 net zero target, hastily imposed, has been allowed to expose this country to unnecessary state interference and expense, avoidable energy risk and therefore political insecurity. This has benefited China, allowing it to undermine the European car market without making the same net zero sacrifices, and Putins Russia, which had a jolly good go at taking the Wests energy needs hostage.

The Conservatives now tacitly admit problems by postponing green deadlines. Even Labour has ditched its vast 28 billion per year green energy investment plan. But no party has broken explicitly with green unreality and turned to look full-on at the emergencies we really do face.

Are we ready, for example, for the breaking of the next debt bubble? We may spend the promised 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence by 2030, but what would we actually do if Russia widened its attack on the West next week? How would we secure our supply chains if China suddenly seized control of the Taiwan Strait? We are not told. I fear this is because our leaders do not know.

Watch electoral argument on television in the coming weeks and you will see most of it revolving around voters understandably annoyed that their costs are too high or their benefits too low. No one is telling them this is the future if we go on as we are.

As this election campaign begins, Rishi Sunak is making clearer arguments about rising risk in the world. This is very welcome, but very late.

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Watch ABC News "20/20" tonight at 9:00 p.m. ET/8:00 p.m. CT for an encore presentation of this report, which first aired May 5, 2023.

For over 30 years, the "killer clown" has captivated investigators, Florida residents and true crime followers around the world.

Marlene Warren, a mother of two, was shot and killed in front of her son by a clown who approached her door and gave her balloons and flowers.

While the scary situation made headlines at the time, and remained a major unsolved mystery for a decade, Warren's son Joey Ahrens told "20/20" in an exclusive interview that it left a hole in his heart that has never been filled.

"She was a great mother," Joe Ahrens told "20/20," in an exclusive interview. "She was charismatic. She was a person of love."

PHOTO: Mike Warren and Marlene Warren seen in a family photo taken in 1989. (Courtesy Joe Ahrens)

Ahrens' interview will be part of an extensive "20/20" airing Friday, May, 5 at 9 p.m. ET and streaming the next day on Hulu that looks at the 33-year-investigation.

Investigators announced a breakthrough in the case nearly six years ago saying new DNA evidence from mysterious hairs found in the getaway car and other clues directly pointed to Sheila Keen Warren, the second wife of Ahrens' stepfather. She pleaded guilty to second-degree murder last week.

"I never thought I was going to get a guilty [verdict]," Ahtens told "20/20" after the sentencing. "That was a shock. It just blew my mind."

On May 26, 1990, Marlene Warren was at her Wellington, Florida, home with Ahrens, who was 21 at the time, and several of his friends, according to investigators. At the time, she was living with her second husband, Michael Warren, who ran a used car lot and a rental car agency.

MORE: Sheila Keen Warren pleads guilty to shooting husband's 1st wife in 1990 killer clown case

Ahrens said that he, his friends and his mother saw a white Chrysler LeBaron pull into the driveway just before 11 a.m. that day and someone dressed as a clown came to the front door with flowers and balloons.

One of the balloons said, "You're the Greatest," according to police.

"The last words I heard my mother say was, 'Oh, how pretty,' and bang," Ahrens said.

PHOTO: Investigators said Marlene Warren's killer gave her balloons and flowers while dressed as a clown before opening fire. (Palm Beach County's Sheriff's Office)

The clown escaped in the car, according to witnesses, and Warren died in the hospital two days later.

In the immediate aftermath of the murder, police were able to track the stores where the balloons, flowers and clown costume were purchased and Deborah Offerman, a store employee, told investigators that she remembered selling the clown costume, wig and other accessories to a woman who came to the store right before closing.

"'I need to buy a costume,' And I said, 'Can you come back tomorrow? We're closed,'" Offerman told "20/20" in a 2017 interview. "'No, I really need this tonight. I need to get a costume tonight,'" she said the customer told her.

Officers were alerted to an abandoned Chrysler LeBaron in a Winn-Dixie parking lot four days after the shooting. Inside they found what they called "trace evidence," including what law enforcement officers described as artificial orange-like fibers, that could have come from a clown wig.

MORE: Killer clown suspect's husband insists she's 'falsely accused' of shooting his 1st wife

They also discovered what appeared to be long brown strands of human hair, which would later be crucial to the case.

DNA analysis at the time wasnt as advanced, and relevant DNA couldnt be taken from hair.

Although Michael Warren was questioned by the police, he had an alibi as he was on his way to a Miami racetrack with friends at the time of the shooting. He denied having any involvement in the murder.

Friends and family told police that Michael Warren may have been having an affair with his employee Sheila Keen, who was a repossession agent.

PHOTO: Joe Ahrens, Marlene Warren's son, speaks with '20/20.' (ABC News)

Investigators did question Keen and Michael Warren about the affair but they both denied it.

The costume shop employees identified Keen Warren to the police as the woman who purchased the clown suit. Cops searched her home, but found no evidence to warrant an arrest.

Keen and Michael Warren would get married in 2002 and settle in Virginia, unbeknownst to most of their Florida friends and family. In the meantime, investigators could not find any more leads in the case.

Ahrens said the pain of his mother's death and that his family didn't get justice led him into a depression and alcohol addiction.

Eventually, he entered rehab and said his mental health has improved.

PHOTO: Sheila Keen Warren seen in a photo taken after she was arrested and charged for the death of Marlene Warren. (Washington County Sheriff's Office)

"I broke down, and I said, 'Enough is enough, I can't do this on my own,'" he said.

The case started to pick up traction in 2013 when new prosecutor Reid Scott revisited the forensic evidence found during the initial investigation.

Scott ordered that the hairs be tested using mitochondrial DNA analysis, which he told "20/20" is a "type of analysis that is conducted typically on older samples."

The more advanced analysis determined that the hair matched Keen Warren, according to investigators.

She would be arrested and extradited to Florida in Oct. 2017, charged with first-degree murder of Marlene Warren.

Michael Warren wasn't charged.

PHOTO: This booking photo provided by the Palm Beach County, Fla., Sheriff's Office shows Sheila Keen-Warren under arrest, Oct. 3, 2017. (Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office via AP, FILE)

For five years, Keen Warren waited in jail for her trial to begin, as her attorney Greg Rosenfeld maintained her innocence and questioned the prosecutors' case.

Rosenfeld told "20/20" that he questioned the validity of DNA evidence and analysis, given that it was in storage for so long.

He also noted that Aherns and other witnesses initially claimed that the clown appeared to be a man.

"A clown costume does not disguise your gender. You can tell if a clown's a man or a woman, even with makeup on," he said.

Scott, however, reiterated the clues added up.

"Yes, it's circumstantial evidence, but an overwhelming amount of circumstantial evidence," he said.

PHOTO: Sheila Keen Warren walks to a podium in the Palm Beach County Courthouse to plead guilty to the 1990 Wellington 'clown' murder of Marlene Warren, on April 25, 2023. (Greg Lovett/The Palm Beach Post via USA Today Network)

In the meantime, Ahrens said he was sure that Keen Warren would face justice.

"Sheila Keen-Warren was the murderer of my mother. I was there, I saw her eyes. And I'll tell you. They're the eyes. I'll never forget them," he said.

But a few weeks before the trial was set to begin, Keen Warren made a shocking announcement -- she was going to make a plea deal with prosecutors.

The deal, which was announced on April 25, had Keen Warren plead guilty to second-degree murder in exchange for a 12-year sentence. Rosenfeld said that her five and a half years in custody would count towards that sentence and she could be released next year on good behavior.

MORE: Police arrest woman in 'killer clown' cold case

"The defendant is pleading guilty because she's guilty and a factual basis does exist for the crime," Scott said.

Ahrens appeared via a video conference at the plea hearing and told the judge he accepted the conditions, but noted that he never once saw remorse from Keen Warren.

"My final conclusion was, I was going to be at peace with the outcome," he said. "Guilty or not, I was going to be okay."

PHOTO: Marlene Warren and her son Joe Ahrens seen in an undated family photo. (Courtesy Joe Ahrens)

A few days after the plea deal was finalized, Ahrens visited his mother's grave to give her a message.

"I was telling her we finally got truth. We finally got closure," he said.

ABC News' Meredith Deliso contributed to this report.

'Killer clown' victim's son reflects on 33-year fight for justice originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Can the royal family vote? That's the question being asked ahead of the U.K. general election on July 4. Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince William, and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, are seen here in December 2023. Credit - Chris JacksonGetty Images

The U.K. is headed for a general election on July 4, after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak requested that King Charles III dissolve parliament earlier this week, sooner than many analysts expected. While the U.K. has transitioned to a parliamentary democracy over the last few centuries, the monarchy still plays a symbolic role in many aspects of the U.K.s governance structure.

Legally, the King and the rest of the royal family are allowed to vote, says Robert Blackburn, a professor of constitutional law at Kings College London. The King and active members of the royal family can legally cast a vote at general elections on the same basis as other eligible citizens, but in practice do not do so for obvious reasons, especially because it would cause a furore of media speculation and violate the constitutional requirement today that they maintain a strict party political impartiality, Blackburn tells TIME via email.

British monarchs once had significant political power, but their power has been gradually reduced over the last three hundred years or so, says royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams. The last time a monarch used their power to essentially veto a bill passed by parliament was in 1708, when Queen Anne refused to sign the Scottish Militia Bill which would have provided arms to Scottish militias.

However, monarchs continued to be involved in politics for centuries longer. The last time a monarch is believed to have expressed an overt preference for the selection of the Prime Minister over another was in 1894, when Queen Victoria outwardly expressed her support of the Whig party over the Tory party.

Things changed [gradually], not by revolution, thats what has characterized the British political scene, Fitzwilliams tells TIME. By the time Queen Elizabeth II came to power in 1952, the monarchys role in politics had been greatly reduced. Nevertheless, even Elizabeth had more political power than many may realize. Queen Elizabeth II had the final choice in the selection of a leader for the Conservative party until the early 1960s, says Fitzwilliams.

In 1963, when British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan resigned, the Queen appointed Lord Alec-Douglas-Home over Rab Butler, who was considered to be the favorite, to much controversy. Shortly afterwards in 1965, the Conservative party decided that they would elect their next leader instead of relying on the Queens choice.

Ahead of the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, when Scotland voted on whether or not to become independent from the U.K., the Queen made headlines on account of a comment she made. When talking to a well-wisher near her Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Her Majesty reportedly said that she hoped "people will think very carefully about the future."

During that period, Buckingham Palace argued that the Queen is above politics.

The monarch is above politics and those in political office have a duty to ensure that this remains the case. Any suggestion that the Queen would wish to influence the outcome of the current referendum campaign is categorically wrong, a Buckingham Palace statement read.

Ultimately, Elizabeth went on to become known for her strong policy of political neutrality, and this has become the adopted policy of Buckingham Palace, to remain disengaged from matters of politics. As a result, the King abstains from elections to this day. However, on paper, the monarch does still hold the power to prevent laws from being passed, prevent elections from being called, and oversee many other formalities within the British government.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Dozens of Republican political figures, ranging from the Speaker of the House to little-known state attorneys general, came to touch the hem at Donald Trumps Manhattan criminal trial.

They were big and they were small; some spent all day in the alternately freezing and sweltering courtroom, while others popped into the courtroom hallway, briefly, before emerging outside to give a statement to the media.

And as the trial progressed, Trumps retinue mushroomed. What started off as a lonely experience, with only Trumps attorneys flanking him in the trials opening days, metastasized into a larger entourage than could fit into the courtrooms reserved seating. Trump consigliere Boris Epshteyn coordinated the seating, rearranging those who came to show their support in the rows behind the President.

Towards the end of testimony, the Trump campaign began to send out lists of which MAGA-aligned celebrities were on tap. They included not just office-holders but figures like Hells Angels leader Chuck Zito, accent-haver Sebastian Gorka, and other luminaries like Bernie Kerik and Alan Dershowitz.

I looked through my own notes from the trial, and reviewed others coverage, to try to quantify this. How many had come to kiss the ring? Who were they?

My list is non-exhaustive, but includes four senators, four current state attorneys general, one governor, and at least 23 members of Congress who came to show their respect to Trump in his hour of need.

These people served another apparent purpose: a show of force. Michael Cohen, for example, hit the emotional crescendo of his testimony when he began to describe how he chose to leave Trumps embrace and plead guilty. He described a heart-wrenching conversation in which his family asked if he was loyal to Trump, or to them.

At that exact moment, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum (R) and erstwhile GOP presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy entered the normally placid courtroom. It caused a stir to those seated in the gallery, though it did not seem to affect Cohens composure.

Burgum was the only state governor to appear. The state attorneys general for Iowa, Alabama, South Carolina, and Texas were there, along with former Florida AG Pam Bondi. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R) came on the last day of testimony.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, himself no stranger to criminal processes, was among the first to kiss the ring when he came to court on April 30; Trump later said that he would consider nominating Paxton for U.S. attorney general if he wins in November. (The trial has already seen two other wannabe U.S. attorneys general appear: former acting AG Matthew Whitaker, who preceded Bill Barr, made an appearance, while the infamous Jeff Clark came for a morning to the overflow room.)

And while state officials were happy to show their support, it was federal elected officials that caused the biggest stir.

Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) was the first senator to appear, showing up on May 9 and doing what Trump could not, per the terms of a gag order: attack prosecutors and members of the judges family. In the weeks after, Sens. JD Vance (R-OH), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) all appeared.

House Republicans were by far the biggest contingent. Many who came only made it within the courthouse, and were unable to be seated.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) came to the courthouse but, as far as I could tell, never entered the courtroom itself. Instead, he delivered a press conference in the park in front of the building, decrying the prosecution.

The House Freedom Caucus came in force, as seen in the photo below:

Some House Republicans are at court in NY to support Trump at his hush money trial today pic.twitter.com/OporgRECNu  Morgan Phillips (@_phillipsmorgan) May 16, 2024

Reps. Matt Gaetz of Florida; Anna Paulina Luna of Florida; Lauren Boebert of Colorado; and Bob Good of Virginia, Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Eli Crane (R-AZ), Mike Waltz (R-FL), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Andy Ogles (R-TN) all came that day.

Before that, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) and Reps. Cory Mills (R-FL) and Byron Donalds (R-FL) had already come.

As testimony barreled to a close with Cohen remaining on the stand, more House GOP members began to show. They included Reps. Eric Burlison (R-MO), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Mary Miller (R-IL), Keith Self (R-TX), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Dan Meuser (R-PA), Ronny Jackson (R-TX), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Dale Strong (R-AL), and Maria Salazar (R-FL).

There was a semi-permanent cast of Trumpworld figures rotating in and out of the courthouse, as well. Epshteyn, the legal coordinator, helped arrange seating for Trumps many guests. Eric Trump and attorney Alina Habba appeared many days; aide Natalie Harp, armed with a printer to feed Trump positive stories, also appeared throughout.
What to know about ICJs Israel ruling and what happens next

What to know about ICJs Israel ruling and what happens next

The United Nationss top court ruled Friday that Israel must immediately stop its military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

The ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is a major condemnation of how Israel has conducted its war, but enforcement is another question.

Without a police force of its own, the international court is limited in its ability to carry out its orders. For example, Russia has ignored a 2022 ruling to stop its invasion of Ukraine.

In 1986, the ICJ ruled that the U.S. violated international law and ordered it to pay Nicaragua war reparations. The U.S. refused and was able to veto further attempts.

Heres what to know about the Israel ruling and what happens next.

Rafah at center of ruling

The courts ruling is focused on Rafah, which sits at the border of Gaza and Egypt and is the center of a nearly two-week campaign being carried out by Israel. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have taken refuge in Rafah since the start of the war.

Despite warnings from President Biden and other world leaders, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the operation into what he says is the last Hamas stronghold so Israel can achieve a complete victory.

The Israeli operations are focused on finding the last four battalions of Hamass conventional army and looking for remaining hostages taken in the groups Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

But the U.S. has issued dire warnings about the humanitarian toll of a full Rafah invasion, and Biden this month threatened to withhold offensive weapons from Israel if its forces move into the city.

What the ruling means

Judges on the court voted 13-2 for Israel to immediately halt its military offensive because it may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.

The 13 judges in the majority were from the United States, Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Lebanon, Mexico, Romania, Somalia and South Africa. The two judges who voted against were from Israel and Uganda.

The court described new evacuation orders for an estimated 800,000 Palestinians in Rafah as exceptionally grave.

The case was brought to the ICJ by South Africa, which accused Israel of carrying out genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The ruling also called for Israel to open the Rafah crossing with Egypt for unhindered provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian aid.

It also called for Israel to ensure investigative bodies can access Gaza to probe the allegations of genocide.

What happens next

Early indications from Israel and its allies suggest it does not feel constrained by the courts order, while pro-Palestinian advocates hope it will help spur international action to stop the war.

Immediately after the ruling, Netanyahu said he would hold a special ministerial meeting to decide how to respond, The Associated Press reported.

Israels former ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon posted on social media that the ICJ judges deliberated in comfort while 125 hostages remain in tunnels.

Israel will not cease the war until our hostages are brought back home and Hamas is completely defeated, Danon said.

David Friedman, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel in the Trump administration, called the ICJ a kangaroo court that makes its decisions on political bias.

Its decision today that Israel should leave Rafah and surrender to Hamas is a victory for radical Islamists and will only encourage more terrorism, Friedman posted online. Fortunately, Israel properly will ignore the ruling.

Blaise Misztal, a national security policy adviser for the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, noted that the ICJ is ordering Israel to not undertake operations that could result in genocide.

So Israel still has the legal right to continue operating in Rafah so long as it can show it is fulfilling its obligations to prevent the commission genocide, he posted online.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told the ICJ to go to hell over the ruling. He said the order will and should be ignored by Israel.

The organization Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN) released statements praising the courts decision.

The ICJ and ICC confirmed this week that international action is needed because Israel will not hold itself accountable and will not voluntarily end its crimes, DAWN advocacy director Raed Jarrar said in a statement.

DAWNs executive director, Sarah Leah Whitson, said it highlighted the need for the U.S. to implement an arms embargo on Israel.

The organizations director of research for Israel-Palestine, Michael Schaeffer Omer-Man, said the decision reiterates warnings from the Biden administration and urged the U.S. to support enforcement of the courts order.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
PARK CITY, Utah (ABC4)  Kouri Richins  the Kamas mother and author accused of poisoning her husband to death with fentanyl  appeared in court for the first time Friday since her defense team requested to withdraw from the case regarding an irreconcilable and nonwaivable situation.

In the hearing, Judge Richard Mrazik officially granted lead defense attorney Skye Lazaro her request to withdraw. He also appointed Wendy Lewis and Kathryn Nester of Nester Lewis PLLC to be Richins new defense counsel.

Who are Wendy Lewis and Kathryn Nester?

According to the law firms website, Lewis and Nester started practicing law together in 2022 after years of courtroom experience in other areas. Lewis graduated from the University of Utah College of Law in 1991 and began working as a clerk in Denver. She returned to Utah in 1992 and practiced law at a private law firm, handling both criminal and civil cases.

Lewis highlighted her work in successfully defending one man from a first-degree murder conviction and another case where the defendant was spared the death penalty. She has been an Assistant Federal Public Defender in Utah since 2021, working on cases such as the case of Brian David Mitchell.

Her partner, Kathryn Nester, graduated from the University of Texas School of Law and has been practicing law since 1992. She went into private practice defending individuals charged with federal and state crimes in Mississippi, according to her biography. She has since worked a public defender for both in Mississippi and Utah.

Nesters biography highlights her work as head of the office, handling a caseload of a capital murder case, a capital habeas case, and several high-profile fraud cases and sex offenses.

Whats next?

To give the new defense time to get acquainted with the case, Mrazik canceled the preliminary hearing originally scheduled for June 18.

State prosecutors, Richins and her new defense team are scheduled to meet again in person before Mrazik on June 21. During that hearing, Mrazik will consider two motions: The first is a motion to disqualify state prosecutors from the case. The second, a motion to suppress the now-infamous Walk the Dog letter.

Richins could face 25 years to life in Utah State Prison if the case is brought to trial and she is convicted.

For everything relating to the Kouri Richins murder trial, visit ABC4s page dedicated to the case here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Kouri Richins, the Utah mother accused of murdering her husband by mixing a lethal dose of fentanyl with his cocktail, is speaking out from jail and proclaiming her innocence in a new audio recording.

The 34-year-old mother of three, who wrote and self-published a children's book on grieving following her husband's death, has remained behind bars in the Summit County jail since her arrest in May 2023. She was charged last year with aggravated murder and drug charges in connection with the 2022 death of her husband, Eric Richins, 39. She has yet to enter a plea to the charges but she denies the allegations.

MORE: Kouri Richins, Utah mom accused of fatally poisoning husband with fentanyl, faces more charges

"The world has yet to hear who I really am, what I've really done or didn't do," Kouri Richins insisted in the audio, provided to ABC News through a trusted confidant. "What I really didn't do is murder my husband."

Eric Richins was found dead in the couple's bedroom on March 4, 2022. An autopsy determined that he died from fentanyl intoxication, and that the level of fentanyl in his blood was approximately five times the lethal dosage, according to the charging document. The medical examiner determined the fentanyl was "illicit fentanyl," not medical grade, according to the charging document.

Kouri Richins allegedly told police that she had made her and her husband Moscow Mules the night before and they drank them while sitting on the bed, according to the probable cause statement.

PHOTO: Kouri Richins, a Utah mother of three, who wrote a children's book about coping with grief after her husband's death and was later accused of fatally poisoning him, looks on during a hearing, on May 15, 2024, in Park City, Utah. (Rick Bowmer/AP)

Kouri Richins was also recently charged with attempted murder in the case. Prosecutors allege she drugged her husband's sandwich on Valentine's Day 2022 in an earlier attempt to murder him.

The motive, prosecutors allege in court filings, was that Kouri Richins was engaged in an affair with a "paramour" and deeply in debt. She also faces charges of forgery and insurance fraud.

Kouri Richins said she is releasing the audio recording in the hope of setting the record straight.

"The world hasn't heard the real facts of the case," she said. "It's time to begin some serious damage control. Who I really am and all that matters is a wife of Eric Richins and a mom to three beautiful boys."

ABC News did not immediately receive a response from prosecutors regarding the recorded statement.

In response to the recording, a spokesperson for Eric Richins' family said, "Those are the rantings of a sociopath, a woman who has no compassion, no feelings, no sense of remorse or guilt for what she's done and is only thinking of herself. It's sad it's tragic and yes, we look forward very much to having the evidence presented in front of a jury, hopefully sooner rather than later."

MORE: Woman who wrote book on grief following husband's death accused of his murder

The audio was released a day before Kouri Richins is next scheduled to appear in court. She is expected to get a new attorney at a status hearing on Friday after her defense filed a motion last week to withdraw from the case due to an "irreconcilable and nonwaivable situation."

A judge granted the motion for the defense firm to withdraw on Monday.

Her attorney has also filed a motion asking the court to disqualify prosecutors for what they allege is gross misconduct, including the claim that the state recorded and listened to privileged calls between Kouri Richins and her attorney.

In a statement this week, prosecutors called the motion "materially inaccurate" and charged it was "filed in bad faith."

A preliminary hearing to decide if prosecutors have enough evidence to go to trial was postponed until June.

Kouri Richins, Utah mom accused of fatally poisoning husband with fentanyl, asserts innocence in audio message originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Kuleba: Putin wants to derail Ukraine's peace summit by claiming 'readiness for ceasefire'

Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to disrupt Ukraine's upcoming peace summit in Switzerland, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on May 24 in response to reports about Putin's alleged willing to halt the war at the current front lines.

A Reuters report from earlier in the day, which cited undisclosed Russian sources, claimed that Putin is open to a ceasefire that recognizes the current front lines on the battlefield but will fight on if Kyiv and its allies do not agree.

Kuleba rejected these reports, saying the Russian president has no desire to end Moscow's full-scale war.

"Putin is desperately trying to derail the Peace Summit in Switzerland on June 1516. He is scared of its success," he wrote on X.

"His entourage sends these phony signals of alleged readiness for a ceasefire despite the fact that Russian troops continue to brutally attack Ukraine while their missiles and drones rain down on Ukrainian cities and communities."

Ukraine's summit will be centered around Ukraine's 10-point peace formula, a plan first outlined by President Volodymyr Zelensky in fall 2022 that calls for a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied Ukrainian lands.

Fifty countries have reportedly confirmed their participation in the global peace summit, including India.

Zelensky previously ruled out Russia's participation in the event, as it continues to attack Ukraine on a daily basis.

Participants of the summit will formulate a common negotiating position on the outcome of the war and submit it to Russia, according to presidential spokesperson Sergii Nykyforov.

"Only the principled and united voice of the global majority can force him to choose peace over war. This is what the peace summit is intended to achieve. This is why he (Putin) is so afraid of it," Kuleba said.

Read also: We will never force Ukraine to accept peace treaty, says UK defense secretary

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JINAN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected the city of Rizhao in east China's Shandong Province on Wednesday afternoon.

He visited Rizhao Port and a coastal greenway to learn about the local progress in promoting the smart and green development of the port, expanding the opening up, strengthening the ecological protection and restoration of the coastline, and improving the quality of people's lives.
KYODO NEWS - May 24, 2024 - 19:46 | All, Japan

Japan enacted revised laws on Friday mandating companies to enhance support measures for employees raising children, including facilitating more flexible use of teleworking and shorter working hours, as part of efforts to combat the country's declining birthrate.

For employees with children aged 3 and above who are yet to be enrolled in elementary school, firms will be obliged to allow them to choose from two or more work style options, such as working from home and shorter or staggered work hours.

Shorter working hours is already mandated by law for employees with children under 3.

The timing for the legal revisions to take effect will be determined later through a government ordinance.

Some other steps are set to be implemented in April next year, including extending the period for employees to apply to be exempt from overtime.

The rules regarding special leave for employees to care for sick or injured children will be relaxed, enabling them to utilize this leave when their children's classes are suspended due to the spread of an infectious disease.

For paternity leave, companies with over 100 employees will be mandated to establish and publicly disclose their objectives, aiming to promote fathers' engagement in child-rearing.

The revision bills were approved by the House of Councillors on Friday with a majority vote from both the ruling and opposition parties, following their passage earlier this month by the House of Representatives.

Related coverage:

Number of young women to halve in 40% of Japan localities by 2050

Japan's population falls for 13th straight year, pinned below 125 million

Japan births at record low, population down by largest margin in 2023
LITITZ, Pa. (WHTM)  A Lancaster County man was arrested for allegedly giving a minor alcohol and driving the child while drinking.

Northern Lancaster County Regional Police say they received a Childline notice involving a juvenile under the age of 13. Police say Justin Hoffman allegedly gave the child whiskey and Seagrams Escapes Jamaican Me Happy, a malt beverage with 3.2% alcohol.

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Police also alleged that Hoffman was drinking while driving with the child in the vehicle and encouraged the child to steal from a beer distributor.

Hoffman has been charged with corruption of minors, endangering the welfare of children, and furnishing liquor to a minor. Hes scheduled for a preliminary hearing on June 18.

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Landslide kills more than 100 in Papua New Guinea village

People gather at the site of a landslide in Maip Mulitaka - AFP via Getty Images

More than 100 people are believed to be dead after a landslide buried a remote village in Papua New Guinea.

The landslide reportedly hit Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, about 600 kilometres (370 miles) northwest of the nations capital of Port Moresby, at roughly 3am local time on Friday.

The death toll is believed to be over 100 - Facebook: Kindupan Kambii

Residents said the current estimates of the death toll are above 100, although authorities have not confirmed this figure. Villagers said the number of people killed could be much higher.

Social media video showed locals pulling out bodies from underneath rubble.

Elizabeth Laruma, who runs a womens business association in Porgera, a town in the same province near the Porgera Gold Mine, said village houses were flattened when the side of a mountain gave way.

It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours, and the entire village has gone down, Ms Laruma told ABC.

From what I can presume, its about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground.

The landslide hit the village in the early hours of Friday morning - AFP

The landslide blocked the road between Porgera and the village, she said, raising concerns about the towns own supply of fuel and goods.

Village resident Ninga Role, who was away when the landslide struck, expected at least four of his relatives to have died.

There are some huge stones and plants, trees. The buildings collapsed, Mr Role said. These things are making it hard to find the bodies fast.

The Papua New Guinea government and police did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The Las Cruces Police and Fire Departments want to remind motorists that rising temperatures can kill or seriously injure people and pets left unattended in enclosed vehicles.

Research shows that the interior temperature of an enclosed vehicle can rise more than 19 degrees Fahrenheit after only 10 minutes in the sun, 34 degrees after 30 minutes, and 45 to 50 degrees in about one hour, according to a news release sent out by the City of Las Cruces.

The rapidly increasing interior temperature of a vehicle can cause injury to people and pets, even when outdoor daytime temperatures are in the 80s or low 90s, according to the news release.



Studies show the practice of leaving a vehicle window partially open, or cracked as it is often called, does little to no good in decreasing the interior temperature. And days that are overcast offer shade, but little to no help in keeping a vehicle cool enough for pets or children, according to the news release.



People can be critically injured or killed when the core body temperature reaches 104 degrees. A body temperature of 107 degrees is considered to be lethal, the City of Las Cruces said.



The Las Cruces Police and Fire departments offer these safety tips:

Do not leave pets or people (sleeping babies, children, elderly) in a vehicle  even with the windows down or cracked.

Place a purse or wallet in the back seat as a reminder that your child is in the car.

Do not leave pets in the bed of a pickup as surface temperatures can rise quickly.

Dont let shade, breezes, windy weather or cloudy days fool you. Warm temperatures and the lack of circulation inside an enclosed vehicle on a warm day, even after sunset, can be deadly.

Avoid leaving your vehicle running and unattended simply to keep the air conditioning on, such as to run into a convenience store. The vehicle could be stolen in seconds.

Avoid overexertion of dogs like walking/jogging them during the heat of the day. Remember that sidewalks and pavement retain heat long after the sun goes down.

If possible, bring your pets indoors during the hottest part of the day.

Provide proper shade and ventilation, and plenty of fresh water daily for pets.

Always lock your car when leaving it unattended and teach children that vehicles are never to be used as play areas.

Check on neighbors and the elderly to ensure they have adequate circulation and cool air in their home.

<Las Cruces Police and Fire also say you should call 911 immediately if you see a person or pet left unattended in an enclosed vehicle  or if they are otherwise suffering from excessive heat. Seek immediate medical attention for people or pets who are suffering from excessive heat.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Las Vegas man sentenced to at least 10 years for stabbing wife to death

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A Clark County judge sentenced a Las Vegas man to 10-25 in years in prison on second-degree murder charges Thursday after the man apologized for stabbing his wife to death.

Last month, Shiva Gummi, 34, pleaded in court pursuant to what is commonly known as an Alford plea, where  generally speaking  a defendant formally admits guilty but simultaneously expresses his or her innocence.

In this case, Gummi admitted guilt in open court.

Im responsible for my wifes death, Gummi said in judge Tierra Jones courtroom Thursday. But there was no willingness or deliberation involved. It was an emotional reaction caused by severe emotional distress, heartbreak and mental anguish. I would gladly exchange places with my wife if I could.

The victim, Dr. Gwendoline Amsrala, 28, had recently graduated from the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. She was a resident at UMC at the time of her death. Police say after Gummi stabbed Amsrala, he turned the knife on himself.

Immediately following her death, friends and colleagues said her death was hard to fathom.

Every day I would wake up and hope that the reality wasnt true until eventually, it sank in, Dr. Omar Sanyurah, a Medical Resident at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, said in 2023.

Amsralas familiy did not speak in court today but the prosecutor, Chief Deputy District Attorney Pamela Weckerly, read a statement from Amsralas mother.

Gwendoline was the kind of daughter any parent would ever wish for, Weckerly read. And we are very proud to be known as Gwens parents. She was a compassionate young woman, smart, working and multi-talented.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) is trying to answer the question of what it should do with two empty campuses it still owns.

Community invited to discuss future of 2 vacant schools

The district held a community input meeting on Thursday, May 23, at the Don Haskins PK-8 School, on 500 Mulberry Ave. This was the final meeting before the district moves forward on potentially selling the vacant Oran Roberts and Mitzi Bond elementary schools.

District officials informed people at the meeting that there are three bids for each of the properties, but only one that is acceptable for each.

With Roberts Elementary zoned as a commercial property, officials discussed the possibility of it being turned into a strip mall or even a hotel by potential buyers.

Meanwhile, a sign on the fence of the Mitzi Bond Elementary property has it zoned as an R-5 residential property which concerned residents of the area, who overwhelmingly expressed their desire for it to become a single-home residential property.

You know, as a member down here, most of us would say we dont want multi-family apartments in the upper valley, on a street like Lindbergh, said a resident near the vacant school, Mike Freidas.

We need to be able to follow through and make sure that the commitments that were made to this staying as a single R-1 residential area are respected, said Ann Stewart, a resident and former teacher at Mitzi Bond Elementary.

Multiple people at the meeting asked district officials whether the proceeds from the potential sale would be used to address the districts $12 million deficit. Officials responded by saying the proceeds would go to the districts general fund.

Others expressed concerns that the district hasnt been sincere in notifying the public as to when these community input meetings are happening, while others are optimistic of where talks are at.

Im extremely hopeful that our district will be very mindful of our future, that we do have a future, said Stewart.

I think its real positive for the El Paso school district to do that. The comments I heard from people who are concerned about the general fund and the debt. I think its a reflection of people feeling like the El Paso Independent School District, among other districts, hasnt been frugal in dealing and handling the taxpayers money that weve had, said Freidas.

District officials said that this is part of an ongoing process to figure out what to do with these and other 15 vacant properties under their ownership. They said their goal is to put out a package for some of their properties every three months.

To have a plan for our surplus properties and to get those properties either repurposed or get them offloaded off of the school districts books. And so, thats the activity that youre seeing right now. Youre seeing a combination of us honoring the voter compact, as well as us being diligent of taxpayer dollars and not allowing properties just to sit in our communities and be a nuisance to the community, said EPISD Chief Operations Officer Stacy Pierson.

As part of the 2016 Voter Compact, EPISD is required to host community input meetings so that people with a vested interest in these properties can weigh in on their future.

District officials said that the potential offloading or repurposing of these properties could also open opportunities to create resources of revenue.

Texas public school funding is taking a hit right now, and so we have to get creative as to how were generating revenue to be able to maintain our MNO and INS and support our academic outcomes as well as school safety. And so, offloading our surplus properties is just one of those avenues that we have as a resource in the district to be able to garner and generate revenue to put back into our facilities, to put into our educational practices and programs, said Pierson.

After Thursdays meeting, the district administration will review the acceptable bids before making a recommendation to the districts board.

They will continue to have these meetings for every vacant properties they introduce into a package as this process plays out.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Multiple arrests were made on Portland State Universitys campus Thursday evening, according to the college, after two students reportedly chained themselves to an administration building one day after a similar incident and subsequent arrests occurred.

According to a PSU spokesperson, a message was sent to the campus community about the Thursday protests surrounding the Richard and Maurine Neuberger Center.

It all began when a planned rally at Urban Plaza occurred around 4 p.m., which was peaceful. Then around 5 p.m. a crowd of protesters arrived at the Richard and Maurine Neuberger Center (RMNC), the college said.

[T]wo protesters chained themselves to the building. A crowd of protesters formed around the people chained to the building. Campus Public Safety officers and the Portland Police Bureau responded. Those chained to the building were arrested, according to a PSU spokesperson.

Makes me sick: Detectives search for crime syndicate pickpocketing Costco shoppers

In addition, a group of protesters in the lower garage of the RMNC building were also arrested, the message continued. One campus officer was taken to the hospital, PSU said.

KOIN 6 News reached out to the Portland Police Bureau for comment. In response, a PPB spokesperson did confirm officers assisted PSU Campus Public Safety. He added PPB assisted CPSO in making some arrests. PPB said PSU would have to confirm any further details, such as who was arrested.

This all comes as flyers circulated online calling for a Peaceful protest at Urban Plaza at 4 p.m. earlier in the day. The flyer said it was in the name of love for Palestine.

Earlier in May, a multi-day occupation occurred at PSUs Millar Library amid Gaza ceasefire protests from a mix of students and others. It caused significant property damage to the library that the college now estimates will cost north of $750,000 to repair, leaving the building unavailable for student use until at least the fall.

This is a developing story. KOIN 6 News will update this article if more information becomes available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  The nations largest and oldest Latino Civil Rights organization is offering a substantial reward for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for the death of a Latina soldier at Fort Campbell.

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National President, Domingo Garcia, announced the $25,000 reward, hoping to find out what happened to Pfc. Katia Duenas-Aguilar and why.

Today, I am announcing an offer of a $25,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of another Latina soldier, this time found off-base in her home this weekend in Tennessee, Garcia said. As we did in the case of Vanessa Guillen, who was murdered in 2020, LULAC offered a $25,000 reward that brought the case to the nations attention. We will not rest, nor will we let the investigation into the killing of this Army soldier go cold. Our military service members must know that we stand with them and that their safety in the ranks is now the law thanks to the Vanessa Guillen Act that we fought to get passed and won.

Fort Campbell soldier killed in Clarksville home

Duenas-Aguilar, a Latina soldier from Mesquite, Texas, was stationed at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. She was found dead at her residence on Tiny Town Road in Clarksville on Saturday, May 18, by local police. Clarksville authorities and military police are both investigating the case.

Duenas-Aguilar was an information technology specialist who enlisted in the Army in 2018, according to Fort Campbell. A Fort Campbell spokesperson said she had been stationed at the Kentucky military base since 2019.

LULAC is in touch with the family, to whom we send our deepest condolences, Garcia said. We want them and our community to know that LULAC is on watch and is urging anyone with information to come forward and speak without fear. Military sexual trauma, or MST, is a persistent problem unless we speak up and expose it wherever we see it in the military. LULAC is here to work with the Army to ensure that a full and transparent investigation brings justice in the killing of this young solider.

Friend calls for justice in murder of Fort Campbell soldier

LULAC continues to advocate for the safety and rights of Latino military personnel and calls for comprehensive measures to protect service members from violence and misconduct, said Roman Palomares, LULAC Military and Veterans Affairs National Committee Chair. I implore anyone with relevant information to contact local law enforcement or the Army CID immediately so we can bring the person responsible into custody.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Latvia's Prime Minister Evika Silina holds a joint press conference with Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (not pictured) following their meeting. Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva/dpa

Latvia and Finland will maintain a calm and factually grounded response to Russia's surprise legislative project to redefine its maritime borders in the Baltic Sea, leaders of the two countries said on Friday.

"It is clear that Russia is looking for new ways for hybrid actions on both our EU and NATO borders. We must of course be vigilant and react based on facts," Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina said in Riga after talks with her Finnish counterpart Petteri Orpo. "We will continue to follow developments closely."

"We are and we have to be well-prepared against all kinds of threats coming from Russia," stressed Orpo.

It was possible, he added, to see "time connections with all these issues in Finland, in Lithuania, in Estonia.

"But now it's time to be calm and look very carefully at what really is happening. Maybe they are testing us, but we don't know yet."

On Thursday, the Russian Ministry of Defence published a draft of the controversial initiative in the government's legislative database.

It announced an adjustment of the maritime borders in the Gulf of Finland and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, which also borders Lithuania, causing immediate alarm in the neighbouring states.

The draft later disappeared from the database without any reason being given.

On Thursday night, Russia also removed several markers from the Narva River border with Estonia, which also marks the eastern external border of the EU and NATO.

"We are also following closely what is happening now at Estonia's border Narva river. Estonia has our full solidarity," said Orpo.

Lithuania, which like Latvia and Estonia was also part of the Moscow-dominated Soviet Union until its 1991 collapse - has condemned the move as "further proof that Russia's aggressive and revisionist policy poses a threat to the security of neighbouring countries and Europe as a whole."

However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that political considerations were not behind the initiative.

Latvia's Prime Minister Evika Silina (R) and Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo hold a joint press conference following their meeting. Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva/dpa

Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo holds a joint press conference with Latvia's Prime Minister Evika Silina (not pictured) following their meeting. Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva/dpa

Latvia's Prime Minister Evika Silina (2nd L) speaks during a joint meeting with Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (2nd R). Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Lehtikuva/dpa
Transitional kindergarten student Melina Rodriguez, right, is ready as her friend Mia Portillo is comforted by her mother Daisy Salazar, left, as students assemble for the first day of school at Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School. (Al Seib / For The Times)

Following a public outcry from parents and teachers, the Los Angeles Unified School District has decided to make timed reading tests optional for most transitional kindergarten students.

The district had previously required all TK students, to take the Kindergarten Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills, or DIBELS for short, a standardized screening test that evaluates a childs reading fluency using a series of four one-minute tests. In one test, for instance, students are given one minute to name as many uppercase and lowercase letters listed on a page as they can. In another, they are asked to read sight words such as young, speak and known.

Read more: A guide to early learning

School officials said DIBELS would provide a quick and valuable way to inform the TK students future kindergarten teachers about their school readiness, and asked teachers to complete the testing by June 5. The DIBELS test is intended for kindergartners, however, and is not intended for preschool-aged children such as those in TK, according to one of the test's developers.

But in a course correction, the school district announced this week that the testing would instead be optional for students in TK, the state's new grade level for 4-year-olds.

"For the 2023-24 school year and with the revision of the California Preschool Learning Foundations coming this summer, administering the DIBELS for UTK Los Angeles Unified students will be optional," a Los Angeles Unified spokesperson said. UTK stands for universal transitional kindergarten. English language learners will still be required to take the DIBELS to assess their skills, at least for this year.

Read more: LAUSD parents and teachers in uproar over timed academic testing for 4-year-olds

The decision followed months of lobbying by district parents and TK teachers, who attended board meetings wearing matching yellow shirts that read, We learn through play, DONT TEST UTK. Groups of concerned teachers also met repeatedly with the district's early childhood leadership.

The problem, they said, is that the test is not intended for preschool-age children and it tests for skills that do not align with the states expectations for what they will learn.

This is huge for us," said Sayra Espinoza, a TK teacher at Overland Elementary School. When we all join together, the district does listen a little bit more.

Espinoza was asked to give DIBELS to her students toward the end of last year; she taught a class of children with earlier birthdays, and all had already turned 5 by then.

It was pretty confusing for them, and it was frustrating for me, she said of the test, which took about 15 minutes per child to administer. A lot of them didnt understand concepts of print, so following along from left to right confused them.

Her students will still be regularly evaluated using a report created by the district, but it's based only on a teacher's observations, rather than a timed test. "It's really a huge win in terms of not having them over-tested, especially starting at such a young age," Espinoza said.

Read more: California public school enrollment drops again, but transitional kindergarten is up

She gave much of the credit for the district's course correction to parents, who showed up repeatedly at district meetings to press their case against the DIBELS test for their children in TK.

Lourdes Rojas, the mother of a 4-year-old in TK in Carson, said she spoke with Michael Romero, LAUSDs chief of Transitional Programs, at a meeting last week. At the time, he said the DIBELS test would continue to be implemented in TK.

We voiced our concerns again. We said can we make this optional. And I feel like that really made them think it through, and apparently they changed their minds," Rojas said.

Maria Arriaga, 4, smiles while posing for a portrait alongside her mom, Lourdes Rojas, after school at Victoria Community Regional Park in Carson. (Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)

Early this week, some LAUSD principals began informing TK teachers that the DIBELS test had been made optional. Late Wednesday evening, the district confirmed the change.

I feel very encouraged, very excited. It feels like my voice matters," Rojas said. "We got together and fought for something positive that is going to affect our children.

School board member Kelly Gonez said she had also been advocating for the district to take a more appropriate play-based approach to testing since she learned about the issue from a group of TK teachers in late March.

"I actually think that instead of trying to push academics downwards into TK and preschool, that we should go the other way" by bringing play-based approaches to the older primary grades as well, she said.

This article is part of The Times early childhood education initiative, focusing on the learning and development of California children from birth to age 5. For more information about the initiative and its philanthropic funders, go to latimes.com/earlyed.

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 state lawmakers are criticizing the pending purchase of a defunct Tunica County casino that could potentially be used to house unaccompanied migrant children, though the deal has not been finalized.

State Rep. Dan Eubanks, a Republican from DeSoto County, and state Rep. Cedric Burnett, a Democrat from Tunica County, have openly panned an apparent plan to turn the old Harrahs Casino building in Tunica into housing for migrant children.

We need to protect the gaming industry we have in Tunica, Burnett told Mississippi Today. This would be counterproductive to what were currently trying to do in Tunica.

The details of selling the former Harrahs Casino, sometimes called the former Grand Casino, and who is interested in purchasing are not yet public. The casino closed in 2014 and has remained vacant since.

John Perry, attorney to the Tunica County Board of Supervisors, told WREG TV station that the county, which has a limited role in what happens with the property, has not taken a position on turning the property into an influx care facility, which could house as many as 2,000 minors.

Perry also told Mississippi Today in a statement that the county has absolutely no involvement in bringing undocumented immigrants into the area and emphasized that the property is privately owned.

The county wants to see the property generate tax revenue, as it has sat in limbo for years, and hopes that the owners can create new revenue for local business and new jobs for local citizens, Perry said. The countys governing authority has always been concerned with the health and safety of local citizens.

Eubanks said on SuperTalk radio station on Monday that someone from U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompsons office helped coordinate the potential business deal, something that Thompsons office pushed back on in a statement to Mississippi Today.

The Congressman has been made aware of interest in the Grand Casino property, Yasmine Brown, Thompsons press secretary, said. However, the responsibility is left to immigration and customs.

Immigration has become a contentious issue nationally in the ongoing presidential election between current Democratic President Joe Biden and Republican challenger Donald Trump.

Roughly two-thirds of Americans disapprove of how Biden is handling border security, including about four in 10 Democrats, 55% of Black adults, and 73% of Hispanic adults, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll conducted in March.

But fears over the countrys Southern border and disappointment with national immigration policy have also led to rampant misinformation about immigration law, such as a separate, unrelated event that was scheduled to happen in Union County on May 19.

Several recent Facebook posts said that state Sen. Kathy Chism, a Republican from Union County, stopped an event from taking place in New Albany where Gutamalean immigrants, armed with work visas, were in the area illegally.

They will not be given marriage and drivers licenses, paving the way to voter registrations, the social media post inaccurately said.

The social media post claimed that the immigrants in the area were in the country illegally yet had obtained work visas, two statements that, on their face, conflict with one another and are inaccurate interpretations of federal law.

A visa allows foreign citizens to travel to a U.S. port of entry and gives Customs and Border Protection officials the authority to permit or deny admission to people with a visa, according to the U.S. State Departments website. If a foreign citizen has obtained a work visa and has been admitted entry into the country, then theyre likely in the country legally.

Jasmine Haynes, communications specialist for the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church, told Mississippi Today in a statement that New Albany United Methodist Church and La Mision collaborated with a Guatemalan mobile consulate to plan an event to provide Guatemalan citizens in the area an opportunity to get passports, birth certificates and other documents.

No taxpayer dollars were involved, Haynes said. The event had nothing to do with any U.S. matters like registering people to vote. It was the heartfelt intention of the church to be the hands and feet of Christ by being of service to families in the community by removing the barrier of travel for them to reach much-needed resources.

Out of caution, the consulate decided to postpone the event indefinitely, according to Haynes.

Federal and state law also only allows U.S. citizens to vote in elections. A person does not automatically become a U.S. citizen or gain the ability to vote, even if they obtain a marriage or drivers license.

A foreign citizen can only become a naturalized American citizen if theyve been a permanent resident for at least five years or been married to a citizen for at least three years and meet other eligibility requirements, according to the Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Orchid Awards Lifetime Honorary Prize winner Joseph W. Polisi, president emeritus and chief China officer of the Juilliard School in the United States, has donated his prize money to support arts and teaching programs. Hear his thoughts in this interview with Xinhua.
A bill passed by Louisiana lawmakers Thursday could see the state become the first in the country to classify two abortion-inducing drugs as controlled and dangerous substancesa move doctors and reproductive rights advocates say could have far-reaching implications for health care access in the state.

The bill, SB 276, passed the state Senate with a vote of 29 to 7, after having passed in the House with a vote of 66 to 30 on Tuesday. It will next go to Republican Gov. Jeff Landry, who is expected to sign it into law. Supporters of the bill say it will protect pregnant people from coerced abortions, while opponents argue that the two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, have many other uses aside from abortion, and that reclassifying them as controlled substances would make it more difficult for patients to access the drug when needed.

Heres what the bill would do, and the controversy surrounding it.

What is SB 276?

The bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. Thomas Pressly, initially only focused on criminalizing intentionally using medications to cause or attempt to cause an abortion without the pregnant persons knowledge or consent. Pressly said he sponsored the bill after his sister learned that her husband had given her abortion-inducing drugs without her knowledge or consent.

Several Louisiana doctors and reproductive rights advocates say they were concerned not by the initial bill, but by its amendment, which was added late in the legislative process. The amendment labels mifepristone and misoprostol as Schedule IV drugs under Louisianas Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law. Schedule IV drugs are considered to have potential for abuse or dependence, and include Valium and Xanax.

Under the bill, if a person knowingly possesses these drugs without a valid prescription, they could face fines or jail time.

Is abortion banned in Louisiana?

Yes. Louisiana has a near-total abortion ban in place with limited exceptions, such as if the fetus has a fatal abnormality or if continuing the pregnancy could risk death.

But both mifepristone and misoprostol are allowed in Louisiana for non-abortion related purposes, such as stopping uterine hemorrhaging caused by complications from childbirth, inducing labor, and preparing the uterus for procedures like IUD insertions and biopsies. Because of this, opponents of SB 276 argue that the bill could reduce access to health care.

Read More: What Abortion Laws Look Like in the U.S. One Year After the Fall of Roe v. Wade

Are mifepristone and misoprostol addictive drugs?

The Food and Drug Administration does not view mifepristone and misoprostol as having a significant risk of abuse or dependence. Years of research has found that both medications are safe.

Dr. Jennifer Avegno, an emergency medicine physician and director of the New Orleans Health Department, tells TIME that the amendment to the bill could create a false narrative that the drugs are dangerous. Avegno, who co-wrote a letter to lawmakers signed by more than 200 Louisiana doctors objecting to the bills amendment, says numerous doctors agree that the drugs dont belong on the Schedule IV list because they lack the potential for addiction.

You have to have a clear demonstration that you have a high risk for abuse, dependence, addiction, or youre a public health hazard, Avegno says about Schedule IV drugs. None of the hundreds of physicians that weve worked with on this have ever experienced the drugs being used in an addictive manner or abuse.

Why are many doctors against the amendment to the bill?

Doctors say that the bill could block access to the drugs for non-abortion purposes. Classifying the drugs as controlled substances would require doctors to have a special license to prescribe them, which some may not have.

There are just so many different regulations that youd have to go through, says Dr. Bhavik Kumar, a family doctor and medical director at Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast, which serves Louisiana and southeast Texas.

This could cause delays in patients receiving access to these medications, sometimes in serious or life-threatening situations

Any delay in getting that medication is the difference, quite frankly, between life or death, Avegno says. So its not the abstract that were talking about and its not sort of these unusual, rare cases. These drugs are used all day, every day.

Read More: Doctors Are Still Confused by Abortion Exceptions in Louisiana. Its Limiting Essential Care

Patients also may become reluctant to take the drugs even when necessary because they may not understand that theyre safe to use, and pharmacists may be reluctant to fill these prescriptions, Avegno adds.

What were already seeing is that women who are being prescribed misoprostol for miscarriage are even now being told by their pharmacy, I cant fill that, thats the abortion drug because there persists so much fear out there, Avegno says. So if its happening now, when its not labeled as a controlled, dangerous substance, how often is that going to happen when it is?

Louisiana has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country, and doctors worry that this amendment could exacerbate the situation.

What do people who support the bill say?

Proponents of the bill argue that SB 276 would not prohibit doctors from prescribing these medications, but would instead prevent people from misusing them.

What were trying to do here is add an additional opportunity to keep bad actors from getting these medications, Pressly said during the Senate meeting Thursday. The senator called the amendment a proactive step to prevent what happened to his sister from happening to others.

Louisiana Right to Life, an anti-abortion group that worked with Pressly on the bill, has argued that state law does not say that drugs need to be addictive in order to be classified as controlled substances. The groups communications director, Sarah Zagorski, says that she does not think the bill would impede access to the drugs for non-abortion needs.

The legislation itself says that for legitimate health reasons that this medication is completely legal, she says. Physicians prescribe controlled substances every single day, they know the protocols for that; this is no different than that.

Read More: What to Know About the Arizona Supreme Court Abortion Ban Ruling

What happens next?

The bill is now waiting to be signed into law by Gov. Landry. If he does, the law would take effect Oct. 1.

Doctors and reproductive rights advocates say that theyre concerned that SB 276 could inspire similar bills in other states. And many worried that there could be more unforeseen consequences.

Theres so many unknowns with this because this is just unprecedented, says Dr. Nicole Freehill, an ob-gyn in Louisiana.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
(Getty Images)

Opponents of a Republican-backed initiative establishing a bill of rights for parents of K-12 students sued the state of Washington on Thursday to keep the measure from going into effect.

The state Legislature approved the initiative earlier this year. Its set to take effect June 6. The lawsuit argues that students, parents and school districts will be harmed by the initiative and that it was drafted in a way that violates the state Constitution.

The initiative passed because of deception and confusion, and it will cause life-altering negative outcomes for queer and trans students if it is implemented, said Adrien Leavitt, staff attorney for ACLU of Washington, which along with two other legal groups filed the lawsuit in King County Superior Court on behalf of 10 plaintiffs.

Initiative 2081 calls for a range of school materials, such as textbooks, curriculum and a childs medical records, to be easily available for review by parents. Parents will also be given notice and allowed to opt their child out of assignments and other activities involving questions about a childs sexual experiences or their familys religious beliefs.

The initiative, written by Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, and one of six initiatives backed by conservative hedge fund manager Brian Heywood, passed unanimously through the Washington Senate and 82-15 through the House, with only Democrats opposed.

Democrats who supported the initiative emphasized that the legislation did not change any protections for marginalized groups and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction said much of whats outlined in the initiative is already state law.

But the ACLU of Washington, Legal Voice and QLaw, the three organizations spearheading the lawsuit, argue the initiative misled state lawmakers and the public.

It violates the State Constitution because it fails to disclose how it revises and affects existing laws, the complaint says. This causes confusion about the legal duties of schools, their staff and contractors, and school-based healthcare providers, as well as the rights of students.

The lawsuit also contends that the initiative would strip important privacy protections for medical and mental health records for LGBTQ+ students, youth of color and students from other marginalized backgrounds.

I think we knew that was likely coming, said Sen. Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, about the lawsuit. We knew there were ambiguities. We were convinced it wouldnt do much harm.

Some Democratic lawmakers were uncomfortable enacting the measure, but by doing so, Pedersen said, the Legislature kept control of the process and could amend the statute next session to deal with vague language. Had voters approved it, lawmakers would have to wait two years before they could amend it.

In a statement to the Standard, Heywood said the ACLU has made their disdain for the democratic process abundantly clear.

We expect [Washington Attorney General] Bob Ferguson to uphold his duty within the law to protect the will of the people and shut down this frivolous attempt by the ACLU to deprive parents of their civil liberties, Heywood said.

When the initiative passed, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups voiced concerns about the potentially chilling effect it could have on LGBTQ+ youth. The initiative came as the socially conservative parental rights movement, which aims to restrict schools abilities to teach about gender, sexuality and race without parental consent, has gained influence across the United States.

LGBTQ+ students and advocates across the country say the movement is less about parental rights and more about targeting and silencing LGBTQ+ youth.

Among the plaintiffs in the lawsuit are South Whidbey School District, equity-focused nonprofit organizations and a parent of two students in Seattle Public Schools.

Standard reporter Jerry Cornfield contributed to this report.

The post Lawsuit seeks to block Washington parental rights initiative appeared first on Washington State Standard.
A theatre has landed itself in hot water after mixing Victorian-style social descriptions and American-inspired identitarian terminology in a job advert seeking a chief executive.

In an incredibly insulting advertisement, it ridiculously lumped together working class, benefit class, criminal class and/or underclass in one category, alongside another appealing for global majority candidates  a catch-all for groups ranging from Black Caribbeans and Arabs through to Latinx, Jewish, Romany and Irish Traveller people.

Leaving aside the deep unpopularity of the term Latinx with many of those the term supposedly describes, the text is incredibly revealing. The arts and culture sector, along with other spheres of British life, is increasingly characterised by a toxic combination of old-fashioned class-based snobbery and contemporary US-inspired racial identity politics.

It is beyond unacceptable that working-class people who have a firm respect for the rule of law can be placed in the same category as convicted criminals. In a desperate bid to be inclusive, the Theatre has used language that most would consider unbelievably alienating.

Similarly, the term global majority is deeply unhelpful. While it may well be a well-meant attempt to replace the thoroughly discredited Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Bame acronym  taken to task by the Sewell report  it is no less ludicrous.

The term global majority was originally created to describe underprivileged populations in the global South  which is itself a crudely homogenising concept which ignores considerable variance in economic development and quality of governance among such countries.

However, over time, it was repurposed in the United States and integrated into domestic conversations on institutional discrimination and systemic racism  bringing together those living on Native American reservations and African-Americans based in inner-city projects. Hispanic-Americans  a section of the US population which is super-diverse in terms of country of origin, migratory background, socio-economic status, and religious affiliation  are all grouped together and chucked into this so-called global majority. The usage of the term accelerated with the nationwide BLM demonstrations in the aftermath of George Floyds killing by the police in Minnesota.

Cobbling together the UKs ethnic minorities under the global majority term deprives them of their unique ancestries and heritages. Ethnic-minority Britons may have local, national, ethnic, and religious identities  but the idea they derive a sense of belonging from being a member of the global majority is a silly one indeed.

The arts sector should be especially conscious and sensitive to the diversity portrait of modern Britain and the potential richness it provides in terms of culture  not treating Britains ethnic minorities as an undifferentiated mass. There is no harm in organisations looking to benefit themselves by exploring untapped potential in different communities  but bunching together different groups into singular categories is not the way forward.

As is too often the case, this DEI initiative is doing more harm than good. Rather than promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion, it risks alienating many by homogenising various groups in society, and reveals a neo-Victorian snobbery.

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.
4D photogrammetry model of USS Harder (SS 257) wreck site by The Lost 52 Project. The Lost 52 Project scanned the entire boat and stitched all the images together in a multi-dimensional model used to study and explore the site. / Credit: Tim Taylor and the Lost 52 Project.

The final resting place of an iconic U.S. Navy submarine that was sunk 80 years ago during World War II was located 3,000 feet below the ocean's surface, the Naval History and Heritage Command said Thursday.

The USS Harder  which earned the nickname "Hit 'em HARDER"  was found off the Philippine island of Luzon, sitting upright and "relatively intact" except for damage behind its conning tower from a Japanese depth charge, the command said. The sub was discovered using data collected by Tim Taylor, CEO of the Lost 52 Project, which works to locate the 52 submarines sunk during World War II.

4D photogrammetry model of USS Harder (SS 257) wreck site by The Lost 52 Project. The Lost 52 Project scanned the entire boat and stitched all the images together in a multi-dimensional model used to study and explore the site. / Credit: Tim Taylor and the Lost 52 Project.

The USS Harder, led by famed Cmdr. Samuel D. Dealey, earned a legendary reputation during its fifth patrol when it sunk three destroyers and heavily damaged two others in just four days, forcing a Japanese fleet to leave the area ahead of schedule, the command said. That early departure forced the Japanese commander to delay his carrier force in the Philippine Sea, which ultimately led to Japan being defeated in the ensuing battle.

But Harder's fortunes changed in late August 1944. Early on Aug. 22, Harder and USS Haddo destroyed three escort ships off the coast of Bataan. Joined by USS Hake later that night, the three vessels headed for Caiman Point, Luzon, before Haddo left to replenish its torpedo stockpile. Before dawn on Aug. 24, Hake sighted an enemy escort ship and patrol boat and plunged deep into the ocean to escape.

Japanese records later revealed Harder fired three times at the Japanese escort ship, but it evaded the torpedoes and began a series of depth charge attacks, sinking Harder and killing all 79 crewmembers.

USS Harder (SS 257) / Credit: Naval History and Heritage Command

The "excellent state of preservation of the site" and the quality of the data collected by Lost 52 allowed the Navy's History and Heritage Command to confirm the wreck was indeed Harder.

"Harder was lost in the course of victory. We must not forget that victory has a price, as does freedom," said NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, U.S. Navy rear admiral (retired). "We are grateful that Lost 52 has given us the opportunity to once again honor the valor of the crew of the 'Hit 'em HARDER' submarine that sank the most Japanese warships  in particularly audacious attacks  under her legendary skipper, Cmdr. Sam Dealey."

Harder received the Presidential Unit Citation for her first five patrols and six battle stars for World War II service, and Cmdr. Dealey was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. During his career, Dealey also received a Navy Cross, two Gold Stars, and the Distinguished Service Cross.

Commander Samuel D. Dealey / Credit: Naval History and Heritage Command

Taylor, the Lost 52 Project CEO, previously located other submarines lost during World War II, including the USS Grayback, USS Stickleback, and USS Grunion. Taylor received a Distinguished Public Service Award from the Navy in 2021 for his work.

The Naval History and Heritage Command said the SS Harder wreck "represents the final resting place of sailors that gave their life in defense of the nation and should be respected by all parties as a war grave."

Other famed warships have been found in the waters off the Phillipines. In 2015, U.S. billionaire Paul Allen located the wreck of the Musashi, one of the two largest Japanese warships ever built, in the Philippines' Sibuyan Sea.

Last September, deep-sea explorers captured images of three shipwrecks from World War II's Battle of Midway, including the first up-close photos of a Japanese aircraft carrier since it sank during the historic battle in 1942.

How Gen Z is driving the rise in popularity of recreational marijuana

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Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) testifies before the House Labor Committee on May 23, 2024. | Kyle Davidson

At a Thursday hearing, the Michigan House Labor Committee took testimony on a bill looking to address child labor concerns by updating the states process for permitting young workers.

State Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) discussed his House Bill 5594, which would transfer the responsibility of issuing and revoking work permits for minors from schools to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), which he said was a continuation of efforts to ensure children are safe in the workplace.

Skaggs previously testified before the committee in October to discuss bills increasing the penalties for child labor abuse, pointing to the story of a 17-year-old employed at a Michigan meat processing plant who lost his hand when it was pulled into a meat grinder. When the owner of the plant pleaded guilty to employing the teen, he was sentenced to pay $1,143 in fines and costs.

Under the current system, work permits are issued by local school districts and kept on file at the minors place of employment and in their permanent school record for the duration of their employment.

This can be a convoluted process and although many school districts are extraordinarily diligent and fast acting, because much of the employment can be in the summer and because youth labor permitting is not the number one mission of our K through 12 school system, sometimes we have delays in permitting, Skaggs said.

While schools being involved in the work permit process made sense in the 1950s, 60s and 70s as the entity that was closest to young people, permitting is not their primary mission, Skaggs said, noting the law his bill would amend was from 1978.

If the bill is enacted, a young person would get their permit through an online registration system. While schools would still be allowed to revoke work permits and would be informed about the permit, it removes them as one of the major components of working through the permitting process.

The department would also be required to create a database of authorized youth employers based on information in the registration system, if the bill is passed into law.

Members of the department testified that this database would allow them to be proactive in protecting minors. While LEO has the authority to investigate establishments where minors are employed, it currently lacks a mechanism to identify where minors are employed before a violation occurs and triggers an investigation, said Jayshona Hicks, LEOs legislative director.

LEO State Assistant Administrator Randall Harrison said keeping a registry of authorized youth employers would also help improve education. While LEO currently selects businesses at random to discuss the laws it enforces, having a registry of locations where children are working allow LEO to prioritize those businesses for outreach and education.

We do as much education outreach as we can, but its sort of self-selecting in because we dont know whos employing young workers, said Sean Egan, LEO deputy director.

Egan also said a new electronic system would make things easier for employers, schools and kids, and would alleviate the administrative burden and record keeping requirements. The department also expects it to speed up the permitting process.

However, Rep. Tom Kunse (R-Clare) argued it would be best to keep permitting local.

When a 16-year-old has a complaint, do you think theyd be more comfortable going to a school counselor or logging on to a website, he said.

The issue of keeping this local is no one knows the student better than the schools, Kunse said.

He also questioned LEOs lack of documentation of where minors are working, arguing the new system creates more bureaucracy.

Im sure the state of Michigan has your birthday when you file your taxes. I dont accept that you say Well, thats a different department.  We have the information, we just dont share, Kunse said.

[The state of Michigan knows] your birthday. They know your wages. If LEO cant collect it from Department of Treasury, thats their fault, Kunse said.

Kunse told reporters that while he supports streamlining the permitting system, it needs to focus on the kids, arguing LEO would not be able to provide appropriate oversight of children working while in school.

A number of business groups also submitted a letter in opposition to the bill arguing it would further complicate the permitting process, and draw out the timeline for permit approvals.

Michigan should be working to break down barriers to students seeking valuable work experience and the opportunity to earn money, not adding additional red tape and barriers to entry, reads the letter, which was signed by members of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, Home Builders Association of Michigan, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Retailers Association, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, National Federation of Independent Business and the Small Business Association of Michigan.

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The post Legislation reforming convoluted Michigan child labor law receives hearing appeared first on Michigan Advance.
People wait in line at RISE Medical Marijuana Dispensary on the morning that cannabis sales become legal in New Jersey on April 21, 2022 in Paterson, New Jersey. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

The Indiana General Assembly has been hiding from the topic of marijuana for years now. But with the federal government set to ease restrictions, its time for lawmakers to tackle the policy debate.

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has proposed loosening the illegal status of marijuana at the federal level. Moving marijuana from the governments list of the most dangerous and least useful substances to a less serious category is a clear signal that the federal government is turning the corner.

Cannabis has been listed as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act since 1971, even as many states have moved to legalize recreational use for more than a decade and medicinal use for even longer.

State-legal marijuana businesses make up a multibillion-dollar industry, but the illegal status of the drug under federal law creates barriers unseen by other industries, including a lack of access to banking and the inability to deduct business expenses from taxes.

The move to Schedule III would enable a more permissive approach to the drug, including by allowing greater study of medicinal uses and letting related businesses use a common tax deduction.

We know where Hoosiers stand.

Results from Ball State Universitys 2023 Hoosier Survey shows 54% of respondents say marijuana should be legal for personal use by adults. In comparison, 32.2% selected It should be legal for medicinal use.

Just 9.8% of respondents selected It should not be legal.

Those findings generally mirror the year before, as well as many other polls.

Dozens of states have moved down this path. The National Conference of State Legislatures reports that as of April 2023, 38 states, three territories and the District of Columbia allow the medical use of cannabis products. As of November 2023, 24 states, two territories and the District of Columbia have enacted measures to regulate cannabis for recreational use.

This isnt new or groundbreaking. We can learn from other states and craft our own path.

Until then we will continue to struggle with situations such as delta-8.

Another quagmire

Congress revived the industrial hemp industry in 2018s agriculture-focused farm bill by removing the plant and its seeds from the definition of marijuana.Its generally considered legal as long as it contains less than 0.3% delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol  or THC, the major psychoactive component in the plant  by dry weight. Above that, its considered banned marijuana.

Indiana promptly followed suit. Lawmakers in 2018 legislation used the same delta-9 cutoff in legalizing low-THC hemp extracts, and added more hemp-related regulations in another law the following year.

The states delta-8 industry has boomed, as an apparently legal alternative to marijuana.

About 540 Indiana retail stores and nearly 1,400 gas stations have sold about $637 million worth of hemp-based cannabinoid products, according to a 2023 study by hemp-cannabis data firm Whitney Economics. Those sales made a total economic impact of about $1.8 billion, the company found.

But the Indiana State Police, the attorney general and some prosecutors disagree on the law, which has led to a lawsuit.

It seems odd to be writing this since I have never used marijuana  not even a gummy or a college toke. And I certainly dont want Indiana to reek of the drug like other places that have legalized it.

But I also feel like its time to stop avoiding the topic and craft a sensible law. We are surrounded by states that have legalized the drug, which creates its own issues along the border. Most importantly, I would love to see all lawmakers  not just Republicans making decisions in private caucuses  publicly weigh in.

Maybe it would pass. Maybe it wouldnt. But lets debate it. Lets put the votes on the board.

The post Lets be blunt: Its time for Indiana to deal with marijuana law appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
Letters to the Editor: Budget deficits are a bad excuse for California to kill single-payer healthcare

To the editor: Assembly Bill 2200, the California Guaranteed Health Care for All Act, or CalCare, was buried without a public vote in the Assembly Appropriations Committee last week. Politicians who claim to support single-payer healthcare now say it must be delayed because the state has a massive budget deficit.

In a piece last year in Forbes, emergency room physician Arthur L. Kellerman noted that the U.S. spends more on healthcare than other wealthy nations but ranks last in health outcomes.

Each time research confirms this bad news, two objections are made: that this country has world-class medical hospitals and research, and any medical system other than our own would cost too much.

Stark class divisions in this country prevent millions of people from getting timely checkups and comprehensive care. Our healthcare system is fragmented by competing insurance companies. Small businesses are burdened by job-based health plans.

Bureaucrats and perverse incentives come between providers and patients. Doctors burn out, because while they are trained to heal and save lives, they spend too much time arguing with insurance companies.

This broken system is already staggeringly expensive. A single-payer system would cost less and cover more. The administrative costs created by insurance companies would be drastically reduced.

If there is no democracy in healthcare, the foundation of the social contract is undermined. Healthcare delayed is healthcare denied.

Scott Tucker, Los Angeles

..

To the editor: Tell readers the truth about single-payers systems  they don't work.

Most of us who live in California are lucky. If we need to see a doctor, we can typically get an appointment within a few days. But not everyone is so lucky, and we must find ways to help those less fortunate.

But it is not necessary to destroy our whole healthcare delivery system to do that.

According to the Fraser Institute, a libertarian think tank in Canada, in 2023, Canadian patients waited longer than ever for medical treatment in their government-funded system. The physicians surveyed reported a median wait time of almost 28 weeks  more than six months.

Single-payer systems tend to have one big problem: They are massively underfunded, and that causes unacceptable delays in getting help from a doctor. Why would we want that in California?

Doug McDermott, Santa Monica

..

To the editor: Did Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), chair of the Appropriations Committee, bother to read the analysis of AB 2200 written by a principal consultant of her own committee?

That analysis clearly delineates AB 2200 as a policy bill, not a spending bill. It also quotes the 2022 finding by Gov. Gavin Newsom's Healthy California for All Commission that, if single-payer were enacted, changes to the current system would reduce overall healthcare spending, saving California billions.

As Appropriations chair, Wicks has power over the fate of many bills. By denying Californians improved, comprehensive, universal healthcare and freedom from medical debt, Wicks is also denying California a long-term investment to protect us from future deficits.

Carol Fodera, La Crescenta

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Christian-themed pro-Trump hats are sold at a campaign rally for the former president in Ohio on March 16. (Jessie Wardarski / Associated Press)

To the editor: What has Donald Trump ever done to suggest that he is in any way aligned with Jesus? It is one thing to say that King David was also imperfect, but to be totally flawed and proud of it does not reflect Christ. ("Jesus is their savior, Trump is their candidate. Ex-presidents backers say he shares faith, values," May 20)

Rather, it is becoming an ever more glaring reality that what passes itself off as "conservative Christianity" is not remotely Christian at its core.

What did Jesus ever say to justify the forceful suppression of other beliefs? What did he say that justifies the denial of urgently needed medical care to women? Did he actually tell his followers that the Samaritan was good because he didn't stop to offer help?

This is the Catholicism of the Spanish Inquisition or the murderous insecurity of Iran's Islamic theocracy. When people insist that their security requires that anyone who is not on their team be subject to their every whim, I see it as the furthest thing from Christ.

The Golden Rule is not limited in application to one's own culture, race, gender or any other group.

Jack Quirk, Porter Ranch

..

To the editor: I have read at least a half dozen articles from different media sources about evangelical Christians supporting Trump. They all seem to be asking the same question: Why?

I recall a survey in the 1990s asking Christians a variety of questions to get an idea about their mind set. One question I remember went something like this: How do you know you are a Christian?

Problem was, there were many different answers given. There is only one correct answer that I know of, and it's this: I know that I'm a Christian because I have put my complete trust in Jesus Christ for my salvation.

This is the core problem with asking Christians why they support Trump. The assumption that all the people who call themselves Christians are actually Christian is wrong. Just because your parents are Christian or you have gone to church your whole life or you are an American doesn't make you Christian.

Simply put, in religious terms, some of these people simply do not know the Lord. But most people know at least a little about Christian ethics, and this is what causes confusion and disbelief on the part of nonbelievers regarding evangelicals' support for Trump.

Robert Pacheco, Whittier

..

To the editor: This article reports that conservative Christians maintain that the former president shares their values.

My advice to these folks is to look closely at Mr. Trump's character and ask themselves,"How would Jesus have voted?"

Herb Weinberg, Marina del Rey

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
YAOUNDE, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno appointed Allamaye Halina as the new prime minister on Thursday, according to a press release from the presidency.

Halina, a diplomat and former director general of state protocol, will now have to form a new government "as quick as possible," the release said.

Halina replaces opposition leader Succes Masra, who resigned as prime minister on Wednesday to pave way for a new government.

Earlier on Thursday, Deby was sworn in as president of the Central African nation for a five-year term, following his victory in the May 6 presidential election. 
Is light rail noise driving you crazy? Were so sorry, and wed like to hear your sad story

Have you been awakened just after 4 in the morning by the clamorous dong-dong-dong of a light rail horn? Is living near the Regional Transit train tracks an almost-never-ending nightmare, except for when it briefly ends for three to four of the weest of wee hours? Is chronic lack of sleep causing you to regret every harebrained choice that led you to your current home?

The Sacramento Bee is in search of our tired, our worn, our frazzled masses yearning to sleep free. We want to hear from you about the loudness of the train and how the noise has affected your poor, shot nerves.

Please fill out the form below or send an email to alange@sacbee.com.
Ill wring your neck: Grandmother reprimanded by police after shouting at gate vandals

Gillian Mears and her husband say they are living in fear that the teenagers will return - The Lowestoft Journal/SWNS

A grandmother was reprimanded by police after telling a group of vandals she would wring their necks.

Gillian Mears, 70, said she just saw red before chasing the teenagers away after they damaged the back gate of her house in Kessingland, Suffolk.

However, when police visited her home after she made a complaint about the damage she was warned about making threats.

Mrs Mears said the incident had made her despair for the next generation.

Mrs Mears, who has four grandchildren, said: I just saw red and lost the plot in a fit of rage and took to chasing the gang of youths down the street.

Our neighbours came out of their houses to try and help me catch them, which was really nice.

I called the police and only when I told them that if I got my hands on them I would wring their necks did they rock up.

When they arrived they told me off for making that threat, which was not a threat it was me just venting my anger.

Mrs Mears and her husband, John, had to pay to have their gate repaired after the April 20 attack, only for the vandals to return a few days later.

When they came back, John, who is disabled, went to confront the gang but fell over. Mrs Mears said she had to pick her husband up off the ground and called the police.

The couple paid 520 for their gate to be repaired twice.

Now they are living in fear that the group will return again, they said.

Mrs Mears added: Those evil kids just laughing at me and my husband makes me feel sick and full of despair with the next generation, I have no hope, their parents should be ashamed.

A Suffolk Police spokesman said: The investigation is ongoing into the criminal damage and anti-social behaviour by a group of youths on April 20.

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.
How a local immigrant entrepreneur is passing on her skills

PLAINFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  A local entrepreneur is working to pass on her knowledge and skills so that others can start their own businesses.

Kelly Brechting is a permanent cosmetic tattoo artist in Plainfield Township. She owns two businesses, Nail Masters and Transformolgy by Kelly, both in the same space at 4640 West River Dr. near US-131 in Plainfield Township.

She grew up in Vietnam and moved to the U.S. when she was around 20 years old. After living in San Diego for a few years, she moved to the Grand Rapids area.

I love San Diego, but I feel like Grand Rapids (is) a nice place to raise family, she said. People are friendly, very sweet and very helpful.

Transformolgy by Kelly and Nail Masters owner Kelly Brechting. (May 24, 2024)

Its more fun at Adobo Boy: Inside Kentwood Filipino eatery

Shes been working in the cosmetic industry for more than two decades, getting her start as a nail tech, when she worked long hours each day, she said. She later expanded into permanent cosmetic tattoos, offering permanent makeup.

Brechting said she likes helping people feel their best, adding it can give them confidence and make them feel happier.

Its not a job to me anymore, she said. Because I love and Im looking forward to be at work, to meet new people and make them more beautiful. I love it.

Nail Masters in Plainfield Township. (May 24, 2024)

Along with working as a permanent cosmetic makeup artist and running her own nail studio, she empowers others to start their own businesses by teaching classes. Students can learn skills like microblading, eyebrow nanoshading and permanent eyeliner.

World travels inspire GR Asian fusion and boba restaurant

Students dont need any experience or license to take the class, Brechting said. Several have gone on to start their own business and she has helped them work through the necessary paperwork to do so.

Nail Masters in Plainfield Township. (May 24, 2024)

It means a lot to me to help other people, she said. I want them to be successful  thats why Im always there for them. No matter what Im here to support them.

In the future, Brechting said her goal is to expand her business, maybe opening into a bigger studio.

As the community celebrates Asian & Pacific American Heritage Month, she said it means a lot to her to have a successful Asian American woman-owned business.

Nail Masters in Plainfield Township. (May 24, 2024)

Nail Masters in Plainfield Township. (May 24, 2024)

She said she was raised to be hard-working in Vietnam and shes proud to be a business woman in America.

I always try to do my best every single day to be where Im at, to be successful, she said.

Local business owner offers vibrant, Hmong-inspired hair accessories

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She added shes thankful for her clients.

I feel so thankful to all my clients who trust me to let me work on them, she said. Im very thankful for them, for all the support and all the love that they gave me. Thats helped me a lot.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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This isn't the first time the Lombardo team has claimed credit for the results of Biden's policies. (Photo of Lombardo campaigning in 2022 by David Becker/Getty Images)

Policy, politics and progressive commentary

Im pleased to announce the allocation of $250 million towards Middle Mile Infrastructure, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo said in a statement released by his office this week. This significant investment will enhance internet connectivity in communities across Nevada that have struggled with inadequate internet access. By addressing these critical gaps, we are ensuring that all Nevadans have the opportunity to benefit from reliable and fast internet service.

We are ensuring? Whos the we?

In other words, where did the $250 million come from?

The press release from Lombardos office left that part out.

Later in the press release, Lombardos office notes that the middle mile infrastructure  thousands of miles of fiber optic lines, basically  is part of a larger investment, and Over the next four years, over $900 million will be dedicated to broadband infrastructure and digital equity and adoption initiatives.

Wheres the $900 million coming from?

The statement from Lombardos office neglected to say.

Perhaps because everyone already knows.

Or should.

A presentation from the Governors Office of Science, Innovation and Technology (OSIT) indicates that of the $250 million Lombardo was pleased to announce this week, $87 million is provided by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), more commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure bill, introduced by the Biden administration and passed by Congress in November, 2021.

Despite the laws bipartisan passage, only 13 members of the U.S. House of Representative who, like Lombardo, are Republicans, voted for the bill. Nevadas Mark Amodei wasnt one of them.

According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, another $74 million of the $250 million was also provided under the infrastructure bill. The OSIT presentation indicates that money was assigned to the capital projects fund under the American Rescue Plan Act. ARPA passed both houses of Congress in March, 2021 without a single Republican vote in either the House or the Senate.

Those two tranches of funding comprise about two-thirds of the $250 million. As for where the other third comes from, as of late Thursday neither the governors office nor OSIT could provide a detailed breakdown.

But during a legislative interim committee meeting last month, OSIT Director Brian Mitchell said there were several sources of broadband funding for Nevada  12, to be exact, Mitchell said.

He provided legislators with a graphic to illustrate those 12 sources.

Every one of them is federal:

As the size of the bubbles indicate, the overwhelming majority of broadband funding to be provided to Nevada is the result of either the bipartisan infrastructure bill or ARPA, one of which passed with only minority support from congressional Republicans and the other with no Republican support at all.

Lombardo must be torn.

It was only a few weeks ago Lombardo wrote Biden a letter demanding the president embrace free market principles that rely on supply and demand and rein in excessive federal spending.

So why doesnt Lombardo reject all that federal spending provided  over Republican opposition  by the Biden administration and Democrats in Congress, and just let free market principles provide broadband to rural and other underserved communities?

Yes, the free market has had decades to do that, and failed. But surely the free market will get around to it eventually, no matter how many more decades it takes, right?

In the meantime, Lombardo could be at ease knowing he had adhered to his faith in free market principles.

But Lombardo contains multitudes.

Just a couple weeks after telling the president how to do his job and demanding that Biden rein in excessive federal spending, there Lombardo was, celebrating the groundbreaking of a high-speed train that has received $6.5 billion in federal grants and financing  again thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure bill that most members of Congress from Lombardos party opposed.

And this week he is pleased to announce all that federal funding for broadband.

For some reason Lombardo and his office did not feel obligated to tell the public where the broadband funding was coming from. Maybe his faith in free market solutions wouldnt let him.

Nevada Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosens office issued a statement noting she helped include the $74 million for middle mile funding when the infrastructure law passed.

The Nevada media largely acquiesced to the governors narrative, however, reporting the press release from Lombardos office under Lombardo-friendly headlines like Gov. Lombardo allocates $250 million to improve state internet infrastructure, and Lombardo announces $250 million for better internet to 40,000 Nevadans, and even Governor Lombardo Providing $250 million for Internet Access.

This isnt the first time Lombardo has claimed credit for the results of Biden administration policies.

His political action committee is fond of touting how many straight months of employment growth have occurred under Joe Lombardos leadership. Lombardos PAC always neglects to note that all of those consecutive months of employment growth, in addition to about twice as many more, have occurred under Joe Bidens leadership.

Construction of fiber optic networks to underserved/unconnected Nevada communities is indeed a development worth celebrating.

But Lombardo, Steve Sisolak, your last ride share driver federal broadband funding would be coming to Nevada no matter who the governor was.

So Nevadans who applaud broadband funding may want to consider saying something Lombardo should but wont: Thanks, Biden.

The post Lombardo tries to hog credit for Biden administration achievements (again) appeared first on Nevada Current.
Longwood police search for men who got into shootout with construction crew near hospital

Police in Longwood are looking for two men who got into a shootout with construction workers outside a hospital.

This happened on Wednesday morning at Orlando-Healths South Seminole Campus.

Crews working on a new building noticed two masked men stealing equipment.

Watch: Deputies: 16-year-old charged with stealing dozens of firearms from gun store in Bunnell

An employee confronted the men, but one of them pulled out a gun and opened fire.

One of the construction workers then retrieved a gun and started shooting back.

Watch: Woman accused of killing elderly Mount Dora couple in 2022 found incompetent to stand trial

Police said the masked men made their getaway in a black four-door sedan.

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Louisiana is first state to classify abortion drugs as controlled dangerous substances after GOP governor signs bill into law

Louisiana Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed a bill Friday classifying the abortion-inducing drugs misoprostol and mifepristone as Schedule IV controlled dangerous substances, a first-of-its-kind law that places them in the same category as narcotics and depressants.

Requiring an abortion inducing drug to be obtained with a prescription and criminalizing the use of an abortion drug on an unsuspecting mother is nothing short of common sense, Landry said in a statement posted on X. This bill protects women across Louisiana and I was proud to sign this bill into law today.

Under the law, which took effect with the governors signature, it is now a crime to possess the abortion medication without a prescription, as well as to give the drugs to a person without their consent.

While proponents of the legislation say that it will protect expectant mothers, hundreds of health care providers in the state have come out against the reclassification, warning that it could create false perceptions around the medications safety and prevent people from accessing necessary care. While abortion is already banned in Louisiana with no exceptions for rape or incest, mifepristone and misopristol have other medical uses, including miscarriage care.

Anyone found in possession of the drugs without a valid prescription could face a felony charge punishable with up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Pregnant women in possession of mifepristone and misoprostol for their own consumption are exempt from such penalties. Louisiana doctors are also permitted under the law to prescribe the drugs.

A conviction in Louisiana for distribution or possession with intent to distribute Schedule IV drugs carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000.

In a medication abortion, mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for a pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol is then taken within the next 24 to 48 hours. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract, causing cramping and bleeding. Approved for other uses, such as miscarriage management, inducing labor, and preventing stomach ulcers, the drug has been available at pharmacies for decades.

As the bill made its way through the states legislature, its critics argued that mifepristone and misoprostol are not dangerous and do not require the same level of regulation as Schedule IV substances.

A group of nearly 270 Louisiana physicians, health care providers and medical students signed a letter to the bills sponsor, state Sen. Thomas Pressly, expressing concerns over the reclassification. They argued that neither mifepristone nor misoprostol have been shown to have any potential for abuse, dependence, public health risk, nor high rates of adverse side effects.

Pressly, who proposed the legislation after he said his sister was given misoprostol against her will, has argued the legislation would not prevent the prescribing or dispensing of the drugs for legitimate reasons.

The doctors I have consulted with feel this provision will not harm healthcare for women, Pressly, a Republican, said in rebutting the letter.

CNN has reached out to the governors office and Presslys office for comment.

Medication abortion, which makes up the majority of abortions obtained in the United States, emerged as a national political flashpoint after the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. The Supreme Court is currently considering a major case that challenges the FDAs approval of the drug mifepristone, with a decision expected by July.

A White House spokesperson told CNN the administration is very concerned about efforts to restrict access to mifepristone.

Make no mistake: these laws are not driven by concerns over womens health, the spokesperson said. This is about coming after womens right to access reproductive health care since Roe v. Wade was overturnedwith devastating effects on womens health and lives that weve already seen in Louisiana and other states across the country.

This story has been updated with additional developments.

CNNs Samantha Waldenberg, Shawn Nottingham and John Bonifield contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The abortion drug mifepristone, also known as RU486, is pictured in an abortion clinic February 17, 2006 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Phil Walter/Getty Images)

Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed a proposal into law Friday that designates two drugs used in reproductive health care as controlled dangerous substances in Louisiana. Its now the first state to establish criminal penalties for anyone who handles the medication without proper clearance.

Mifepristone and misoprostol, the two primary drugs used for medication abortions, will be considered Schedule IV drugs, putting them on par with potentially addictive prescription drugs such as Valium and Xanax. They are also widely used to induce labor in pregnant women and those who have miscarriages as well as to treat ulcers and constipation.

Once the law takes effect Oct. 1, anyone who prescribes or dispenses either of the two medications without the proper authorization could face jail time.

Requiring an abortion-inducing drug to be obtained with a prescription, and criminalizing the use of an abortion drug on an unsuspecting mother is nothing short of common sense, Landry said in a statement. This bill protects women across Louisiana, and I was proud to sign this bill into law today.

Critics of the proposal fear it will limit options for prompt care in emergency situations, especially in rural areas where access to medical professionals with prescription authority is limited. More than 200 physicians signed a letter sent to the proposals author, Sen. Thomas Pressly, asking him to remove the Schedule IV designation from it

Pressly, a Republican from Shreveport, had initially crafted a bill that sought harsher criminal punishment for anyone who caused a pregnant woman to take abortion drugs without their knowledge or consent. He brought his proposal forward after his pregnant sister was unknowingly given misoprostol in 2022 by her estranged husband.

Mason Herring, a Houston attorney, pleaded guilty in February and was sentenced to 180 days in prison and 10 years probation, according to the Associated Press. Presslys sister, who appeared before lawmakers to promote the measure, delivered her daughter 10 weeks premature, and she said the child continues to require intensive weekly therapy.

The Louisiana Senate advanced that original version of Presslys bill, but the states top anti-abortion organization, Louisiana Right to Life, was able to add the Schedule IV language in the House of Representatives. The group is very active in state politics, often lending its clout to candidates who opposed elected officials, even Republicans, who dont agree with its strong stance against abortion.

Louisiana enacted one of the nations strictest abortion bans two years ago, just weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion. The procedure is illegal in Louisiana except for instances where the life of the mother is at risk. Even with that provision, doctors have been reluctant to administer critical material care or force delivery of stillborn infants for fear of breaking state law.

It is already illegal to use drugs to induce an abortion in Louisiana, which has also outlawed obtaining such medications through the mail.







The post Louisiana governor signs law to declare abortion drugs dangerous substances appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
In an unconscionably dumb act of political theater, the Louisiana state legislature has voted to pass a ludicrous and deeply unscientific bill that criminalizes abortion pills by classifying them as "controlled dangerous substances."

Louisana moved quickly to illegalize abortion in the days after Roe vs. Wade was overturned. Currently, neither medical nor surgical abortions are legal in the state. Criminalizing the possession of abortion pills under the Controlled Substance Act, though, is a deeply troubling turn in the US' ongoing abortion rights battle  and where one abortion-restrictive state goes, others may well follow.

The bill targets mifepristone and misoprostol, drugs that when taken together induce abortion. The pills are extremely safe; a December analysis from CNN, based on data from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), shows that mifepristone, which was approved by the FDA in 2000, has an astonishingly low associated death rate of 0.0005 percent when used as directed. Per CNN, that's lower than the respective death rates associated with penicillin and Viagra, two common drugs that are publicly and scientifically understood to be safe.

Mifepristone "has been used for over 20 years by over five million people with the capacity to become pregnant," Ushma Upadhyay, an associate professor in the department of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive science at the University of California, San Francisco, told CNN at the time. "Its safety is very well established."

All to say, there's no scientific evidence to merit the criminalization of abortion pills on safety grounds. In post-Roe America, however, anti-abortion activists have systematically attempted to dismantle access to mifepristone and misoprostol abortion treatments, largely based on "research" that's been redacted.

In other words, this bill is so, so, stupid. We want to say it's too stupid for words, but it's unfortunately too serious not to write about.

According to The Washington Post, the bill was originally drafted to outlaw instances where a person gives abortion pills to a pregnant woman without her consent  an obviously horrible and dangerous thing that should be illegal! But that perfectly reasonable and highly specific original bill was later amended to include the criminal reclassification of the pills themselves, a drastic and nonsensical measure that, per WaPo, some lawmakers didn't see coming.

"Everyone was blindsided," Louisana representative Mandie Landry, one of the bill's few dissenters, told WaPo.

Now, under the bill, abortion pills become a Schedule IV substance alongside highly addictive opioids and depressants. (Mifepristone and misoprostol, needless to say, have zero risk of dependency.) Further, transporting and providing abortion pills without a prescription will be considered criminal racketeering; possession of the pills without a valid prescription could carry hefty fines and even significant jail time. Pregnant women themselves are exempt from prosecution, but these new restrictions will likely make it harder for them to get abortion pills at all, especially in a state that already has a near-total ban placed on medical and surgical abortions.

Criminalizing mifepristone doesn't just impact women who want to end a pregnancy; it's also the safest means of post-miscarriage care. And elsewhere, it's FDA-approved to treat Cushing's system, a rare hormonal disorder that can cause diminished fertility and a greater chance of developing type 2 diabetes when untreated, among other symptoms. There's technically an exemption for prescription holders, but as WaPo notes, criminalizing the medicine in an already-fraught atmosphere for pharmacists and physicians will likely just further confuse access for everyone, even those who aren't seeking to terminate a pregnancy.

But despite pushback from the Louisiana Society of Addiction Medicine and a letter cosigned by over 240 of the state's OB/GYN physicians begging the legislature to reconsider, according to WaPo, the bill passed.

"I understand that it may give some in this body some heartburn," State Senator Thomas Pressly, the bill's main author, dismissively told fellow lawmakers on Thursday, according to The New York Times. "But I truly believe this is the right step for making sure that the criminal action on the front end is stopped."

The law is expected to be signed by current Louisiana governor Jeff Landry, a Big Oil-cozied climate change denier and book-banning hopeful who, during his previous tenure as the state's Attorney General, was sued over allegations that his office protected a politically connected pedophile and once inexplicably sued reporters for their requesting of public-record documents that delineated a sexual harassment claim against one of Landry's top aides.

One of Landry's recent endeavors as governor is a crusade to put the Ten Commandments in Louisiana public schools, because  as a trained lawyer who has presumably read the American Constitution  he seemingly forgot the part of our founding document about the separation of church and state. Just, you know, if you needed a vibe check on the Louisiana government's leader.

Without scientific evidence, criminalizing abortion pills is simply a criminalization of abortion  it's the drawing of ideological and political boundaries, not scientific or evidence-based ones. Pretending otherwise is misleading, and rest assured the consequences will be bigger than a case of "heartburn."

"The pills have not changed," Mandie Landry, the representative, told WaPo. "The politics have changed."

More on abortion pills: CVS and Walgreens to Begin Selling Abortion Pills
This article was originally published in Louisiana Illuminator.

The two public universities that have held exclusive rights over medical marijuana farming in Louisiana could soon lose their duopoly after the Legislature approved a bill that will fully privatize cultivation in the state.

Senate Bill 228, sponsored by Sen. Patrick McMath, R-Covington, sailed through the Legislature with little opposition and now awaits Gov. Jeff Landrys signature.

Louisiana issues only two medical marijuana grower licenses each year. They are currently held by LSU and Southern University. Thats been required by law since the state enacted its medical marijuana program in 2015.

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They are the only two higher education systems in the country that are in the pot business right now, McMath said, and it is my belief that its time we get them out of that business and let them focus on higher education.

To get their cannabis farms up and running, the colleges partnered with private contractors Good Day Farm and Ilera Holistic Healthcare. McMaths bill will transfer the cultivator licenses to those companies and allow them to keep them as long as they file for renewal each year.

Good Day Farm, which has a much larger operation than Ilera, has close ties to the lawmakers who have given it a near-exclusive grip on a lucrative niche market. The companys primary shareholder is shipbuilding magnate Donald Boysie Bollinger, one of the wealthiest persons in Louisiana and a major Republican donor. The companys president is John Davis, husband of state Rep. Paula Davis, R-Baton Rouge.

Good Day Farm did not respond to a request for comment Monday.

Former state Rep. Joe Marino, who played an instrumental role in helping shape much of Louisianas medical marijuana policy, criticized the legislation, saying lawmakers are helping a single company dominate the market.

Its a monopoly, Marino said in a phone interview.

No other companies will get a chance to apply for a growers license unless either Good Day Farm or Ilera relinquishes theirs.

While in office, Marino tried unsuccessfully to pass legislation that would have expanded the number of cultivation licenses, arguing that allowing more growers into the industry would help meet the high demand for medical marijuana and make it more affordable for patients at the states 10 licensed dispensaries.

Good Day Farm, which has produced far more product than Ilera, will be well-positioned to corner the market by the time the federal government reclassifies marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug.

Schedule I drugs are those with the highest potential to create dependency issues and are considered to have no currently accepted medical use. As it stands, marijuana is a Schedule I drug, along with heroin, LSD and ecstasy. The Biden administration has proposed moving it down to Schedule III, which includes drugs such as ketamine, testosterone and Tylenol with codeine.

The U.S. Department of Justice has recently proposed the rescheduling plan, which is currently pending public review under a 60-day commenting period.

During a March 20 committee hearing on his bill, McMath said the medical marijuana program was always supposed to be a private industry. The idea to involve the universities was attached to the 2015 legislation in a late-hour floor amendment, he said.

It was never really their intention to be put into this bill, McMath said.

A previous version of the bill would have allowed the universities to still receive a percentage of the companies gross sales from the medical marijuana program, but that provision was removed from the final version.

While the bill awaits the governors signature, state lawmakers are also on track to dismantle a consumable hemp industry they created two years ago after unwittingly legalizing recreational THC products that can get people high. That legislation, Senate Bill 237, sponsored by Sen. Thomas Pressly, R-Shreveport, is pending final consideration on the House floor.

Louisiana Illuminator is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana Illuminator maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Greg LaRose for questions: info@lailluminator.com. Follow Louisiana Illuminator on Facebook and Twitter.
Lucy Letby Loses Bid to Appeal Against Convictions for Murdering 7 Infants in British Hospital

Lucy Letby Loses Bid to Appeal Against Convictions for Murdering 7 Infants in British Hospital

The British neonatal nurse was found guilty of killing seven babies and attempting to murder six others at the Countess of Chester Hospital in 2015 and 2016

EyePress News/Shutterstock Lucy Letby

Lucy Letby has been denied permission to appeal against her convictions for the murder and attempted murder of babies in her care.

In a short Court of Appeal hearing in London on Friday, May 24, the three judges reviewing Letbys application  Dame Victoria Sharp, Lord Justice Holroyde and Mrs Justice Lambert  denied her permission to appeal, according to BBC News, The Telegraph and Evening Standard.

The former neonatal nurse was found guilty of killing seven infants  five boys and two girls  and attempting to murder six others at the Countess of Chester Hospital in 2015 and 2016 in a trial that lasted 10 months and ended in August 2023.

The 34-year-old was sentenced to life by Judge Justice Goss just days after she was found guilty.

SWNS Lucy Letby

Related: Lucy Letby: How Authorities Zeroed in on British Nurse Accused of Murdering Infants in Neonatal Unit

According to BBC News, Letby applied for leave to appeal against her convictions shortly after her trial ended.

In January, she lost the first stage of the process where a single judge reviewed her arguments, per U.K. newspaper The Times.

EyePress News/Shutterstock Lucy Letby

Letby was entitled to a second attempt and the hearing on May 24 reflected the outcome of the second stage where a panel of judges reviewed her application, per The Guardian.

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GETTY IMAGES The Countess of Chester Hospital, where nurse Lucy Letby worked

Letbys lawyer put forward four grounds of appeal to challenge her convictions, arguing that the judge at her trial wrongly refused legal applications made during the case.

The former healthcare professional is also due to be re-tried on one charge of attempted murder in June. The jury at her 2023 trial at Manchester Crown Court was unable to reach a decision on the charge.



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Read the original article on People.
Baris Acar, the owner of a motorcycle gallery, introduces a Chinese motorcycle to a customer in Istanbul, Turkiye, on May 16, 2024. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua)

ISTANBUL, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Located beside a bustling avenue on the Asian side of Istanbul, a motorcycle gallery exhibits a remarkable collection of Chinese brands, capturing the attention of both seasoned riders and curious enthusiasts.

Baris Acar, the gallery owner, has noticed a significant trend toward Chinese brands in the Turkish market since he launched his showroom in 2016.

Currently, 13 of the 14 brands featured in the showroom are from China, with approximately 100 models on display, highlighting China's substantial presence in the Turkish market, said Acar.

"This dominance in the Turkish market reflects the escalating influence and popularity of Chinese motorcycles across the globe," he told Xinhua while introducing the newest models at his gallery.

In Acar's view, Chinese manufacturers are rapidly evolving their product lines, offering new, esthetically pleasing high-tech models at competitive prices.

"The Chinese market's expansive nature ensures a steady influx of fresh offerings to Turkiye, ranging from smaller 50cc engines to larger 800cc models," he said.

The price ranges span from an average of 40,000 Turkish liras (1,240 U.S. dollars) to 700,000 liras (21,741 dollars).

Since the beginning of 2024, Acar has sold approximately 1,500 Chinese motorcycles.

"That's quite an impressive number," Acar said, noting that his sales reflect the growing preference for Chinese motorcycles throughout Turkiye.

According to the Turkish Statistical Institute, the number of motorcycles registered to traffic increased by 31.5 percent in April from one year earlier.

The data further revealed that out of 196,309 vehicles registered to traffic last month, motorcycles constituted 54.3 percent of the total.

Deniz Evren, an avid Turkish rider, drives a CFMOTO motorcycle, a Chinese brand, with a 700cc twin-cylinder, boasting approximately 73 horsepower.

Chinese motorcycles are displayed at a shop in Istanbul, Turkiye, on May 16, 2024. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua)

"There's an engine that exudes strength, a powerhouse beneath the surface. Moreover, the braking system instills confidence with its responsiveness, ensuring safety with every touch," Evren spoke of his motorcycle to Xinhua.

Evren is also delighted by the availability of spare parts, which can swiftly meet any maintenance requirements.

Semih Eryukseldi, an industry veteran with nearly 14 years of experience in the automobile sector in Istanbul, accentuated the unique strategic approach adopted by Chinese manufacturers.

"This approach involves importing motorbike components from China and then assembling them in Turkish factories, showcasing a blend of global collaboration," Eryukseldi told Xinhua.

"This strategy not only capitalizes on China's manufacturing capabilities, but also facilitates localized assembly, showcasing China's leadership in the sector," he said. 
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The three victims allegedly attacked during an incident at the Tower Porchfest event in Fresno earlier this month spoke at Fresnos City Council meeting on Thursday, demanding the District Attorney file hate crime charges.

I am appalled by the decision made by the DA Lisa Smittcamp to not uphold the initial hate crime charges, said Lana, an alleged victim.

No hate charges filed by DA after Porchfest incident in Fresnos Tower District

The group wants Fresno City Council to encourage the Fresno County District Attorneys Office to file hate crime charges against 49-year-old Francisco Samaniego.

This has affected my mental health, my job performance I dont feel like the story was accurately represented, said Mel, an alleged victim.

This was in fact hate crime and we the community, we Fresno, do not stand for any form of hate crime versus anybody, said Zahra, the third alleged victim.

According to witnesses, on April 27 during Tower Porchfest, Francisco Samaniego approached them and started an argument over their support of Palestine. That argument escalated into a physical confrontation. The suspect fled the scene on foot after the altercation but he was found by assisting officers.

On May 9, the DA announced that no hate crime charges were filed against Samaniego, saying that this was due to the suspects actions.

According to a statement released by the Fresno County District Attorneys Office on May 9, the decision not to file a hate crime charge against Samaniego was due to the suspects actions. The DAs office said the legal test to establish a hate crime was committed is when actions target another persons disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with a person/group having one or more of these characteristics. The DAs office say Hamas does not fit into any of these designations.

The evidence presented did not reach the level required to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the actions of Samaniego interfered with the civil rights of the victims. Fresno County Districts Attorney Office.

The charges filed against Francisco Samaniego were two counts of felony battery, one count of misdemeanor batters, and one felony count of second-degree robbery.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Emmanuel Macron, the French president, has delayed voting reforms in New Caledonia after violent separatist protests in the former French colony.

The planned reform, which has already been passed by lawmakers in mainland France but not yet ratified, would expand voting rights in local elections to anyone who has been living in New Caledonia for at least 10 years.

Many of the indigenous Kanak population  who make up about 40 per cent of the islands 270,000 residents  see the reform as a threat to their voice and any future referendums on independence.

On Thursday, during a last-minute visit to French territory in the south-west Pacific, Mr Macron said that more discussions were needed between local leaders on who should come up with an alternative for the islands future.

I have pledged that this reform will not pass today in the current context, he said after an intense day of meetings on the island with local officials.

We will allow some weeks to allow a calming of tensions and resumption of dialogue to find a broad accord.

Violent protests began on May 13 - Bruno Favre/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Mr Macron said that he would reevaluate the situation within a month once all local stakeholders could come to an agreement on how to proceed.

Violent protests began on May 13 shortly after lawmakers in Paris approved the measure.

Seven people have been killed during the riots, dozens injured and hundreds of local businesses damaged, in the worst outbreak of violence in the territory since the 1980s.

The island is currently under a state of emergency - THEO ROUBY/AFP

The island is currently under a state of emergency and more than 1,000 security reinforcements have been sent from the French mainland to assist the 1,700 local police forces and gendarmes.

The French president said that the reinforcements would remain in the archipelago for as long as necessary, even if they have to remain on the island during the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

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French President Emmanuel Macron chastised Russian President Vladimir Putin for rejecting an Olympics truce proposal with Ukraine and said Putins rejection shows the world that he is not ready to make peace.

This is a big clarification moment because every week until now President Putin was claiming to be available for peace, Macron said this week, in an interview with CNBCs Andrew Ross Sorkin that aired Thursday.

But now that Putin has a specific offer for peace available to him, Macron said in the interview, he rejects it.

So for everybody in the world, its clear he is the one who decided to launch his war, and he is not ready to make peace, Macron said.

The Olympics will begin in France this summer on July 26. Macron has long pushed for a truce, which he has noted is part of a long tradition in the Olympics.

Macron said in the CNBC interview he thinks its important to use the Olympics as a moment to make progress toward peace and to maximize the level of pressure on those who decided to launch a war, referring to Putin.

Macron also said the Olympics could be a very good opportunity to build ties with China and work together toward peace.

Look, a truce is not for me the endgame. Sustainable peace is the endgame, he said. But I think its very important  to use this window during the Olympics.

Both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the truce proposal. Putin cited a recent decision from the International Olympic Committee to block Russia from officially competing. Russian athletes are permitted to attend, despite Russias invasion of Ukraine, but they must compete under a neutral flag.

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The Madison County Sheriffs Office is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred in the vicinity of 6265 Haslauer Road in the town of Stockbridge, according to a statement from the sheriffs office.

Madison County Sheriff's Office

At around 2:35 a.m. on Friday, May 24, deputies responded to the area of 6265 Haslauer Road for a reported UTV versus house motor vehicle collision.

Upon arriving on the scene, deputies observed a 2024 Polaris Ranger in a ditch off the southern shoulder of the roadway.

The operator and sole occupant of the UTV, identified as Shane Warner, 44, was located deceased in the yard of 6265 Haslauer Road, deputies said.

Following an investigation, the deputies said Warner was traveling westbound on Haslauer Road when he failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway, subsequently exiting the northern shoulder of the roadway and striking a tree, a vehicle parked in the driveway of 6265 Haslauer Road, and the house located at 6265 Haslauer Road.

The residence at 6265 Haslauer Road was heavily damaged in the collision. Deputies said alcohol and excessive speed appear to have been factors in the accident.

The New York State Police, the Munnsville Fire Department, and Vineall Ambulance assisted deputies on the scene.

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Madison County Sheriff's Office investigating fatal crash in Stockbridge
An amateur sting operation in a bitter feud between Republicans in a small town in central New Jersey has now resulted in the arrest of a local councilman.

The hustle, reports the New Jersey Globe, was organized and planned by a growing cohort of MAGA Republicans in Readington Township. Frustrated by the increasingly routine disappearances of their political placards, they decided to plant six repurposed boards from the districts 2022 House race as bait, pinning them with Apple AirTags before planting them next to a group of signs supporting a pair of moderate conservatives running for Readington mayor.

The signs were then stolen, and the AirTags led the Donald Trumpaligned cohort to an unexpected location: the home of committeeman John Albanese.

Albanese, a member of the towns Republican old guard and a former Readington mayor himself, was arrested May 17 and charged with unlawfully taking or exercising control over certain moveable property, according to a summons issued by Patrolman Brandon Griffiths.

Incumbent Mayor Adam Mueller and Committee Member Juergen Huelsebusch, both aligned with the towns new conservative wing, issued a joint statement denouncing Alabaneses alleged behavior. The arrest of Committeeman Albanese, an elected official and former Mayor, is deeply troubling and indefensible, the pair told the Globe. Given the considerable damage and embarrassment this has caused to Readington Township and the Republican Party, we call for his immediate resignation from all elected offices. This is a necessary step to begin restoring trust and integrity within our community.

Still, the election boards werent exactly the MAGA cohorts property to be stolen. Originally, the House district signs belonged to the campaign for Representative Thomas Kean Jr., though the backs of the signs had since been marked as Property of Readington GOP, according to the Globe.

A spokesman for the Kean campaign declined to comment to the local paper, though the freshman lawmaker is backing Huelsebusch and Mueller.
The DFL-controlled Minnesota Legislature passed smaller measures this session meant to alleviate the high cost of homeownership and rent, but lawmakers failed to approve a statewide zoning law or prohibit landlords from blocking tenants who pay rent with Section 8 or other vouchers.

A raft of tenant protections was enacted as part of Democrats' 1,400-page tax bill, along with more funding for nonprofits that build affordable housing and work with people to find homes. While DFL lawmakers see progress toward affordable and stable housing, Republicans say they worry more rules will drive up construction costs and rents.

"The fundamental challenge that we have in Minnesota is this huge shortage of homes," said Rep. Mike Howard, DFL-Richfield, who chaired the housing committee.

He said he sees zoning as a tool for increasing supply, and he celebrated a law that will allow Minneapolis' 2040 zoning plan to go forward, even as a larger zoning reform bill failed.

Republicans agree that housing supply is a problem. But they said they wanted to see the Legislature focus less on aid to build and rehabilitate low-cost housing, and more on finding ways to make building in Minnesota less expensive, pointing to lower construction costs in surrounding states.

Sen. Eric Lucero, R-St. Michael, said he wanted, for example, to see less-stringent energy efficiency standards on new homes as a way to cut costs for builders.

"We need to take some serious steps to decrease the cost and increase the supply," Lucero said.

Here's a look at what passed:

More funding for housing

The Legislature approved spending far less on housing this year compared with 2023. Notable pieces include $53.4 million to help pay for new affordable housing by filling the gaps left by other grants and financing with some set aside for Indigenous communities and the Rondo Community Land Trust; $17 million for a workforce homeownership program; $10 million for housing with built-in supports for people with mental health and substance use disorders; $10 million to seed a revolving loan fund for repairs on mobile homes; $8.8 million in assistance to keep families out of homelessness; $150,000 for a nonprofit to study the possibility of an emergency shelter for transgender adults; and $225,000 for a report on buildings with only one exit stairwell, which is not allowed under current code.

Tenant protections

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said she was glad to see a range of new regulations for landlords meant to protect renters. Landlords will not be allowed to deny a lease to someone who has an individual taxpayer identification number, which some immigrants use instead of a Social Security number. Tenants who ended their leases early because they were victims of domestic or sexual violence, or harassment could move to get evictions erased from their records. Landlords won't be allowed to dissuade renters from calling police if they need help, which Flanagan said is an issue she often hears from renters.

The bill also requires landlords to provide payment or alternative housing for people who are supposed to be moving into new or renovated apartment buildings that aren't finished by the time the lease starts, such as what happened last fall with a Dinkytown student apartment building.

What didn't pass:

Ban on Section 8 discrimination

A provision that would have made it illegal for landlords to deny a lease to someone because they pay part of the rent with a voucher like Section 8 fell short late in the session.

Flanagan said she was frustrated, in part because the issue is personal.

"We relied on a Section 8 housing voucher to secure housing when I was little," she said, saying it enabled her family to live in St. Louis Park. "We were able to access Section 8 and live in a community that was safe and welcoming with a great school system."

Lucero said he did not want to see laws that would give landlords less discretion over tenants. He said he thought this could lead to landlords charging higher rent.

"Missing middle" zoning

A bill that would have made it legal to build duplexes on any residential lot in Minnesota failed earlier in the session. It would have overridden any local zoning codes that require houses and lots to be of a certain size. The bill was opposed by the League of Minnesota Cities and other local government groups but had some bipartisan support and backing from cities where such zoning already exists.

'We took a large bit at the apple when it comes to state level zoning reform to end exclusionary zoning," Howard said.

He said he thinks the conversations around that legislation helped build unlikely alliances between affordable housing advocates and libertarian-minded regulation opponents, and opened a conversation about what could be done.

Howard said he plans to continue meeting with city officials to understand their concerns. He said the primary city lobbying groups are going to work together next year, which Howard hopes will make negotiations simpler.

Rep. Brian Johnson, R-Cambridge, agreed local regulations were sometimes getting in the way of building small homes and could be blocking younger people from homeownership.

"We have homes for the middle and upper-middle class, but we don't have the starter homes," he said.

Similar laws to override local zoning codes were passed in Montana last year and in Colorado this year, Howard said.

What could move next year?

Flanagan said she anticipates more housing infrastructure bonds will be proposed in 2025, to build more workforce housing in the metro and greater Minnesota, and apartments where larger families can live. Housing will remain a priority, she said.

"I think we laid a really solid foundation," Flanagan said. 'We're going to come back at it in future sessions."
BEIRUT, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Two Lebanese Hezbollah members were killed, and three civilians were injured on Friday in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Lebanon's southeastern village of Mays al-Jabal, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that members of the Civil Defense and the Islamic Health Authority worked to remove the rubble of the house, which was targeted by an Israeli warplane with four air-to-surface missiles, and transported the two bodies and three wounded to Mays al-Jabal Governmental Hospital.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah said its fighters used drones and Katyusha missiles to attack several Israeli military sites, including Bayad Blida, Ruwaisat al-Alam, the Evin Menachem settlement, and a gathering of soldiers in Sarawat Triangle, opposite the town of Yaroun.

Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas's attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. 
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A local crime syndicate is targeting customers at big box stores up and down the I-5 corridor, according to authorities.

Portland police detectives are investigating a series of pickpocketing incidents  most recently at Costco parking lots in the metro area  and are requesting the publics help to identify more victims and to keep a lookout for the suspects.

Oregon Supreme Court order requires more people to be held in jail for drug crimes

A recent surveillance video shows a 93-year-old man pushing his cart out of a Costco in Portland when three men start trailing behind him, eventually snatching his wallet from his back pocket.

The victim in this case told KOIN 6 he really hopes police catch the crime ring.

Its so devastating when you lose everything in your wallet, he said. Then you have to go through the process of replacing your drivers license and other important cards.

Portland Police Detective Jordan Zaitz is trying to track down the thieves.

It makes me sick, she said. Theyre out there hunting for peoples identity, stolen credit cards, and its people who probably dont even realize that its happening or not until much later. And so theyre able to get away with it.

Police are searching for three men accused of pickpocketing customers at local big box stores. (KOIN)

In this 93-year-old victims case, Zaitz said he checked out of Costco at 5 p.m., made it home at 5:30 p.m., and by the time he called Visa and MasterCard, the thieves already used his cards at Fred Meyer.

They were able to walk away with just about $1,500 worth of gift cards that they can use later, Zaitz said. Theyre pretty organized. I think this is something that theyve been doing for a really long time.

Portland police have confirmed pickpocketing attempts at Costcos in Portland and Tigard, plus in Washington towns such as Kirkland, Puyallup, Tukwila and Lynnwood.

Police know there are more unknowing victims out there.

We had a woman who was loading her car with the purchased items, her purse was in there and they went up and got her wallet. I have that on video, but Im still not sure who the victim is. Shes never made that police report, Zaitz said. One of the things thats important to me is finding out if there were people who had their purses or wallets stolen while at a Costco, at a Walmart, at a Safeway, anywhere really. And if we can possibly link it up to this group.

If anyone lost their wallet, contact Portland police, so they can track down surveillance footage.

The sooner the better because video is only held for so long, and Id like to be able to charge them with as many crimes as theyve committed, Zaitz said, as she warns shoppers to stay vigilant.

Have your head on a swivel when youre out in the parking lots, even when youre inside stores, dont leave your purse on the back of your chair. Keep it in your lap or in front of you, she said. When youre unloading your groceries, put your purse in your car first and then unload your groceries or just have it on you. If youre a man with a wallet in your back pocket, button it and just be aware.

According to police, the suspected thieves are three well-dressed Romanian men.

One is a 4-foot-9, 18-year-old. The other thieves are in their 30s, ranging in height from 5-foot-5 to 5-foot-10. They drive a 2005 Toyota Sienna van with a temporary Texas license plate.

If you think youre a victim contact Detective Jordan Zaitz: jordan.zaitz@police.portlandoregon.gov

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
FILE PHOTO: The BlackRock logo is pictured in New York City

By Yantoultra Ngui

SINGAPORE (Reuters) -A group of prominent Malaysian civil society bodies have started a protest against a bid by a consortium including a firm in the process of being acquired by BlackRock to take the country's airport operator private amid boycott campaigns against some U.S. firms over the Gaza war.

Around 22 organisations have issued a joint statement urging the government to reconsider and block BlackRock's participation in the deal worth about $2.6 billion to take Malaysia Airports Holdings (MAHB) private, alleging the firm has ties with Israel.

A consortium led by Malaysia's sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional Bhd and state pension fund the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) announced on May 15 an offer for the shares of MAHB it doesn't already own.

Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) are also part of the consortium.

BlackRock announced in January that it would buy GIP for $12.5 billion, with the acquisition expected to close in the third quarter.

In a letter to EPF management on Thursday, the civil society organisations, including the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations and Viva Palestina Malaysia, urged the pension fund to cease ties with BlackRock.

The privatisation plan has also faced criticism from some opposition and ruling party lawmakers over BlackRock's involvement.

BlackRock, Khazanah, EPF and MAHB did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment on Friday.

The deal is the latest to face protests in Malaysia, a majority-Muslim country in Southeast Asia and a staunch supporter of the Palestinians.

Some Western brands in the country including Starbucks and McDonald, as in some other Muslim nations, have been targeted by boycott campaigns over Israel's military offensive in Gaza.

Malaysian's QSR Brands, the operator of fast food chains KFC and Pizza Hut in Southeast Asia, has indefinitely shelved plans to list on the local stock exchange as its businesses have been affected by the boycott campaigns, Reuters reported in April.

On May 17, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said claims that 25% of MAHB would be owned by a pro-Zionist company are baseless, without naming the company, local media reported.

Anwar's office did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment on Friday.

If the deal is completed, Khazanah and EPF would jointly own 70% of MAHB, while the remaining 30% would be held by GIP and ADIA.

Shares of MAHB have climbed 36% so far this year, giving it a market value of $3.55 billion, LSEG data showed.

BlackRock is the world's largest fund manager. The New York-headquartered firm manages $9.09 trillion in assets globally as of March 2023, according to its website.

($1 = 4.7170 ringgit)

(Reporting by Yantoultra Ngui in Singapore; Additional reporting by Danial Azhar and Rozanna Latiff in Kuala Lumpur, Selena Li in Hong Kong; Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee and Kim Coghill)
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A judge has found the man accused of causing another mans death and eating that mans face near the Las Vegas Strip competent to stand trial.

Colin Czech, 29, faces a charge of open murder. On Sunday, April 28, a person called police about a man who reportedly tackled another man to the ground on Las Vegas Boulevard near Charleston Boulevard, documents said. About 45 minutes later, another person called police, saying a man was on top of another man at a bus stop eating the other mans face

Officers responded, finding Czech kneeling next to the victim with biological matter in his hair, mouth and on his clothing, documents said. Czech reportedly told officers the victim had attacked him.

Czech also told detectives he used his teeth to hurt the victim, adding he used his teeth to eat [the mans] eyeballs and ears, documents said.

Police identified the victim as Kenneth Brown, believing Czech pushed Brown to the ground, causing his death. As of Friday, the Clark County coroners office had yet to identify the victim nor his cause or manner of death.

A competency finding comes after two mental health examinations.

Czech was due to return to court on June 5. He remained in custody without bail.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A 45-year-old man who was wanted for murder for 16 years was arrested on Wednesday, May 22 in Las Cruces, according to the Dona Ana County Government Center.

The Government Center says Oswaldo Corral, 45, was taken into custody by the Dona Ana County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday after hiding in Mexico for nearly 16 years.

Corral was wanted by DASO since 2008 as a suspect for first-degree murder, armed robbery, aggravated burglary, and conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary, according to the Government Center.

The Government Center says Corral had been using a false name and obtained fraudulent identification documents while in Mexico.

His apprehension was made possible through the Sheriffs Offices partnership with the United States Marshals Service and with the cooperation of Mexican authorities, the Government Center said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
A South Carolina man who shot and killed a man in Dayton has been sentenced.

Demar Cobb, 37, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was sentenced to 24 years for life in prison, according to a spokesperson for the Montgomery County Prosecutors Office.

Cobb was previously indicted on charges of murder, felonious assault with a deadly weapon, felonious assault with serious physical harm, and having weapons while under disability.

>> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: South Carolina man accused of deadly Dayton shooting; Coroner IDs victim

As News Center 7 previously reported, in June 2023 police and medics were called to the 2900 block of Lakeridge Court around 1 a.m. on reports of a shooting. When they got on the scene, they found a man, identified as Graylon Russell, shot in a parking lot.

Medics took Russell to MIami Valley Hospital but he was pronounced dead.

An investigation found that Russell had arrived at the apartment on Lakeridge Court to repossess a vehicle.

Cobb exited a nearby apartment building and confronted Russell before shooting him multiple times and running from the scene.

In a separate trial, Cobb was also found guilty of having weapons under disability.








Once celebrated, an inventors breakthroughs are now viewed as disasters  and the world is still recovering

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Facing a crowd of journalists, inventor Thomas Midgley Jr. poured a lead additive over his hands and then proceeded to inhale its fumes for about a minute. Unfazed, he said, I could do this every day without getting any health problems whatsoever.

Soon afterward, Midgley needed medical treatment. But the act would have dire consequences beyond his own well-being.

The year was 1924, and Midgley, then a chemical engineer for General Motors, had pulled the stunt to support his most recent, lucrative finding: a lead compound called tetraethyl lead. Added to gasoline, it solved one of the biggest problems the automotive industry faced at the time  engine knocking, or tiny explosions in car engines due to the low quality of gasoline that resulted in an annoying sound and potential damage. Lead helped, but at great expense, because the substance is highly toxic to humans, especially children.

Midgley would go on to leave his mark in history with another destructive invention, also a solution to a problem: the need to replace the noxious and flammable gases used in refrigeration and air conditioning. He found that CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons, were an ideal substitute and harmless to humans. However, they turned out to be deadly to the ozone in the atmosphere, which blocks dangerous ultraviolet radiation that can cause skin cancers and other health problems, as well as harming plants and animals.

One hundred years after that stunt before the press in 1924, the planet is still recovering from the ill effects of both of Midgleys inventions. The ozone layer will need another four decades to heal fully, and because leaded gasoline was still sold in parts of the world until 2021, many continue to live with the long-term effects of lead poisoning.

Yet Midgley  whose story will be told in an upcoming movie developed by the writer of the 2013 film The Wolf of Wall Street  was hailed as a hero for decades.

An inventor from his early days

Born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, in 1889, Midgley had a penchant for finding useful applications for known substances early on. In high school, he used the chewed bark of the slippery elm trees to give baseballs a more curved trajectory, a practice professional players would later pick up.

He was known to carry with him at all times a copy of the periodic table, his main tool in the search for the substance that would mark his breakthrough invention.

The task of addressing the issue of engine knocking fell to Midgley while he was working at General Motors in 1916.

It was the dawn of the automobile era in the United States, and Ford had developed the Model T, which was not very powerful, said Gerald Markowitz, a history professor at the City University of New York. GM joined with Standard Oil and DuPont to try to develop more powerful engines, and in order to do that they needed to solve the problem of the engines knocking with the fuel that they had at the time.

A lead compound called tetraethyl lead was marketed under the brand name Ethyl and became a commercial success. Algeria was the last nation to halt the use of leaded gas in 2021. - Colin Creitz/The Enthusiast Network/Getty Images

Under the direction of Charles Kettering, another influential American inventor and head of research at GM, Midgley worked his way through thousands of substances  including arsenic, sulfur and silicon  in a quest to find one that reduced knocking when added to gasoline. He eventually landed on tetraethyl lead, a lead derivative that was marketed simply as Ethyl. Leaded gasoline first went on sale in Dayton, Ohio, in 1923 and eventually spread throughout the world.

Lead is highly poisonous, with no safe level of exposure, and can impair development in children, causing decreased intelligence and behavioral disorders, according to UNICEF. An estimated 1 million people a year still die from lead poisoning, according to the World Health Organization.

The toxicity of lead was already well-known when Midgley added it to gas, but that didnt stop Ethyl from becoming a commercial success.

There were alarms that were raised, because lead was known as a toxin, Markowitz said. But the position of the industry was that there was no proof that lead coming out of the tailpipes of cars was going to injure people. And it was that lack of proof that ultimately led the surgeon general not to take action after a public health conference in 1925.

However, workers in Ethyl manufacturing quickly experienced ill effects.

It was really the fact that the people working in the labs producing tetraethyl lead were getting sick that created a crisis, Markowitz said. They would literally go insane as a result of their exposure to lead.

Midgley went as far as pouring Ethyl over his hands and inhaling it during that 1924 news conference in an attempt to quench fears.

But in reality, he was also getting poisoned.

He definitely wrote in a letter in January of 1923 that he had a touch of lead poisoning, and he did have lead poisoning for the rest of his life, said Bill Kovarik, a professor of communication at Radford University in Virginia. It doesnt really go away when you get that much lead in your body. It is a serious, long-term disability.

Punching a hole

Just years after the invention of Ethyl, Midgley  again spurred by Kettering  turned his attention to developing a nontoxic, nonflammable alternative to refrigerant gases such as ammonia, which were used in appliances and air conditioners at the time, leading to a series of fatal accidents in the 1920s.

He came up with Freon  a derivative of methane, composed of carbon, chlorine and fluorine atoms  the first CFC. In another public demonstration, in 1930, Midgley inhaled the gas and blew out a candle with it, a move designed to show its safety.

Freon, as well as subsequent CFCs, became commercial successes, and made air conditioning adoption shoot up in the United States. After World War II, manufacturers started routinely using CFCs as propellants for all sorts of products, including insecticides and hair spray.

After World War II, manufacturers started using ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, as propellants for all kinds of products such as aerosol sprays. - Joe Sohm/Visions of America/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

It was the mid-1970s, three decades after Midgleys death, before the damage from his two inventions became publicly known. CFCs had punched a hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica; if left unchecked, the hole would have expanded to the point of eventually threatening all life on Earth.

As a result of continued industry pressure, leaded gasoline was not phased out in the United States until 1996 and slowly thereafter throughout the world. The last nation to get rid of it, Algeria, still sold it until 2021, and lead additives continue to be used in aviation fuel. A 2022 study estimated that half of the current US population had been exposed to dangerous levels of lead in early childhood, but the damage to the worlds collective health is harder to quantify.

In 1987, the Montreal Protocol was signed to phase out CFCs from 1989 until 2010, after which they were banned. (CFC emissions have been rising again recently, a sign that they may still be produced illegally.) The hole in the ozone layer is on the mend and will likely heal in the next halfcentury in a rare environmental win.

The very sad truth is that we dont know especially the number of children who have been adversely affected, Markowitz said. There is no safe level of lead in a childs body. Were talking tens of millions of children, hundreds of millions of children over a half-century or more that have been affected adversely, their life chances diminished from lead dust as a result of the exhaust gases that got into the ground or into the streets.

A tragic death

Midgleys life ended under tragic circumstances. After contracting polio in 1940, he became severely disabled and devised yet another invention: a machine that would lift him out of bed and into a wheelchair autonomously, via strings and pulleys. But on November 2, 1944, he became entangled in the machine and died of strangulation.

For a long time, it was believed to have been the ultimate irony  the inventor dying by his own invention. But the reality may be even darker, according to Kovarik.

The official cause of death was suicide, he said. He had a tremendous sense of guilt. The industry told him he was brilliant. But he did stuff that in hindsight was pretty irresponsible. The lead poisoning could have contributed to his psychosis.

Midgley received several awards and honors in the late stages of his life. The Society of Chemical Industry awarded him the Perkin Medal in 1937; the American Chemical Society gave him the Priestley Medal in 1941 and elected him as president in the year of his death.

A biographical memoir from the National Academy of Sciences, written by his mentor Kettering in 1947, contains nothing but praise and ends by saying that Midgley left behind a great heritage to the world from a busy, a diversified, and a highly creative life.

History has other examples of inventions that turned out to be unwittingly deadly, such as TNT, which was originally developed for use as a yellow dye and not used as an explosive until decades later. Midgley is unique in having developed two such inventions, but although its tempting to see him as an environmental villain, experts say his role was more akin to a cog in the machine.

Midgley, who contracted polio in 1940, saw several honors in the last years of his life. Here, he receives the Willard Gibbs Award from the Chicago section of the American Chemical Society in 1942. - Carl E. Linde/AP

He was just an employee, Kovarik said.

Markowitz agrees. This was corporate-sponsored research, he said. Had it not been Midgley, Im sure it would have been somebody else who would have come up with these solutions.

Striving for growth and innovation at all costs was reflective of the conception of progress in the first half of the 20th century, Markowitz added. Only with the environmental movement that started in the 1960s and 1970s did we begin to consider what the consequences of technological progress could be, he said.

That has had a really sobering effect, but up through the 1950s there were very few voices questioning the idea that progress was our most important product.

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LOS BANOS, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A man has been arrested in connection with a shooting in Los Banos, the Los Banos Police Department said.

Officers say they responded to the 1400 block of Hawthorne Drive for a report of a man suffering from a gunshot wound at 9:23 a.m. on Thursday.

Upon arrival, police say they located a 40-year-old man suffering from at least a gunshot wound to the upper body.

Investigators say they identified the suspect in this incident as 42-year-old Sergio Lozano of Los Banos, and he was taken into custody in connection with the shooting. The firearm allegedly used has also been recovered.

This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released as it becomes available.

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SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  A man was arrested in San Angelo on May 24 for six charges of possession of child pornography, with an investigation uncovering 99 videos and 19 images found on a single cloud storage account.

The man, 29-year-old Carlos Beltran Montes de Oca, was arrested at 8:01 a.m., according to the Tom Green County Sheriffs Office. Each charge has a set bond of $75,000, giving him a total posted bond of $450,000.

RELATED: TGSO details capture of migrant possessing child porn

According to a warrant filed in Tom Green County, the Tom Green County Sheriffs Office received a National Center for Missing & Exploited Children CyberTip that provided information showing a person had uploaded 8 videos containing suspected child pornography to a cloud-based storage provider using the same phone number and IP address. An investigator also received three additional CyberTips, which showed that the same number and IP address uploaded an additional 22 videos and 3 images containing suspected child pornography to the same cloud storage provider in March 2024.

The investigator reviewed the suspected media files and determined they all contained obvious child pornography. The warrant states that many of the files depicted adult males having sexual intercourse with very young girls (under 7 years old).

One person injured following shooting on north side of San Angelo

The investigator submitted a grand jury subpoena to Frontier Communications for the subscriber information of the phone number used to upload the media files, learning that the subscribers service address was located in San Angelo.

Afterward, the investigator submitted a search warrant to the cloud storage provider for all of the stored digital media files and electronic records uploaded using the phone number. The investigator searched the media files after the data was provided, discovering a total of 99 videos and 19 images which contained obvious child pornography as well as 3 videos containing bestiality.

According to the warrant, several of the images and videos on the phone numbers cloud storage account featured the same Hispanic male with facial hair. Images of a Mexico Consular ID Card and Mexico passport depicting Beltran were also found in the accounts storage, with the investigator identifying the man depicted on both images as the same male subject with facial hair depicted in the numerous images and videos saved to the cloud storage account.

WATCH: Fire burns home on W Avenue Z, naked man found hiding in shed

The investigator also located a saved image on the account that showed a newer model white Dodge Charger 4-door car. Beltran was later confirmed to be the registered owner of the vehicle.

During the evening of May 18, the investigator sent a Tom Green County Sheriffs Office sergeant to drive by the property identified as the phone numbers service address. The sergeant informed the investigator that a vehicle matching the car in the image, including its license plate, was found.

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(FOX40.COM)  A man was arrested Thursday in connection with a Sacramento County shooting that injured one person, the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office.

According to the sheriffs office, deputies arrested the suspect, a 26-year-old Sacramento resident, at a job site in Natomas.

The shooting occurred on La Mancha Way around 10:15 a.m. on May 5.

The sheriffs office said the victim, an adult man, had non-life-threatening injuries.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A man was sentenced to lifetime psychiatric commitment Thursday for the fatal shooting of a man in a road rage incident on Highway 18 back in 2022.

In Polk County Circuit Court, 24-year-old Justin McAnulty pled guilty except insane to one count of second-degree murder in the death of 48-year-old Dennis Anderson.

Judge dismisses 2 murder charges against suspect in Vancouver officers death

On July 13, 2022, Oregon State Police said the two men were on the highway near milepost 15, when Anderson pulled over to let McAnultys car pass. Police said the driver pulled up to Andersons vehicle and when Anderson got out of his car, McAnulty  the drivers passenger  shot him multiple times.

By the time officers arrived at the scene, Anderson was already dead. His passenger was not struck in the shooting and gave officers a description of the suspect vehicle.

Police arrested and charged McAnulty for the murder in September 2022, after Portland Police Bureaus SERT Team executed a search warrant on his residence. At that time, he was lodged in the Polk County Jail.

Motorcyclist accused of making knife threats against young mother during road rage incident

As a result of his plea, McAnulty was sentenced to a lifetime commitment under the Oregon Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB) with confinement at the Oregon State Hospital.

Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton reacted to the plea and sentencing in a statement Thursday.

Justin McAnulty committed a violent, senseless and cowardly act when he cold-bloodedly murdered Dennis Anderson in front of his wife. Mr. Anderson was unarmed and completely without fault in this tragedy. Today, the court heard from multiple family members who spoke eloquently of the singular nature of Mr. Anderson and how their lives have been devastated by his loss. My heart continues to go out to them as they work to move forward and recover.

Although both the states and defenses experts reached the same conclusion about the defendants mental status at the time the shooting, todays outcome is extremely disappointing. While McAnultys guilty plea at long last takes responsibility for killing Mr. Anderson, I strongly believe that Mr. McAnulty presents a risk to community safety and should be securely confined for the remainder of his life. It is now up to the members of the PSRB and other officials of our states mental health system to protect the community from McAnulty.

I am grateful for the assistance of so many in the public safety and law enforcement community that worked tirelessly on this investigation. In particular, the Oregon Department of Justice who handled the overall litigation of the case, the Oregon State Police as lead investigators, the Polk County Sheriffs Office, Salem Police Department, Grand Ronde Tribal Police Department, Portland Police Bureau, Keizer Police Department, Independence Police Department, Benton County Sheriffs Office, Marion County Sherriffs Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Washington County Sheriffs Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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Dennis Francis (L), president of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and Kenji Nakano, chief of the General Assembly Affairs Branch, observe a moment of silence in memory of the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, at the beginning of the UNGA plenary session on the culture of peace at the UN headquarters in New York, on May 23, 2024. The UNGA on Thursday held a minute of silence during a plenary session to honor the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. (Evan Schneider/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)

UNITED NATIONS, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday held a minute of silence during a plenary session to honor the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

Dennis Francis, president of the 78th session of the UNGA, led the tribute. "I now invite the representatives to stand and observe a minute of silence in memory of His Excellency Syed Ebrahim Raisi."

The observance took place at the beginning of the UNGA plenary session on the culture of peace, commemorating President Raisi and others who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in northwest Iran on Sunday.

Francis further requested the permanent representative of Iran to the United Nations to pass on the General Assembly's condolences to the Iranian government, the people of Iran, and the family of the deceased.

In addition to the General Assembly's gesture, the UNGA president also extended his condolences to the Iranian government and its people.

Prior to this, the UN Security Council had observed a minute of silence for the president and his delegation, and the UN flag was lowered to half-mast as a sign of respect on Tuesday. 

The UN General Assembly observes a moment of silence in memory of the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi at the beginning of the UNGA plenary session on the culture of peace at the UN headquarters in New York, May 23, 2024. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday held a minute of silence during a plenary session to honor the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. (Evan Schneider/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)
Andreas Pernerstorfer was renovating his wine cellar in Gobelsburg, Austria when he made an astounding discovery. It wasn't vintage wine  it was the giant bones of an extinct mammoth that date back 30,000 to 40,000 years.

He reported the bones to the Austrian Archaeological Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, which began excavating the Stone Age bones.

The researchers realized other artifacts like jewelry and fossils had been discovered 150 years prior in the wine cellar next door. Bones of this significance haven't been found in more than 100 years, according to the researchers.

Archeologist Hannah Parow-Souchon (right) explains the bone location to Langenlois' city councilor for culture Sonja Fragner (center) and wine grower Andreas Pernestorfer. / Credit:  OeAW-OeAl/Th. Einwogerer

"Such a dense bone layer of mammoths is rare," says Hannah Parow-Souchon, who is leading the excavation. "It's the first time we've been able to investigate something like this in Austria using modern methods."

They have found a layer of bones from three different mammoths laying on top of each other, a discovery that raises many questions about how humans in the Stone Age hunted mammoths. The researchers say the mammoths could've been trapped at the site by humans.

"We know that humans hunted mammoths, but we still know very little about how they did it," researcher Parow-Souchon said.

Thomas Einwogerer and Hannah Parow-Souchon preparing the bones for recovery / Credit:  Yannik Merkl

After the researchers examine the bones, they will be given to the Natural History Museum Vienna.

Mammoths lived in Africa about 3 or 4 million years ago and their descendants moved to Europe and Asia, according to the University of California Museum of Paleontology. The mammoth species in on these continents lived from 200,000 to 135,000 years ago and after another Ice Age, wooly mammoths traveled to North America, crossing the Bering Straight between what is now Russia and Alaska when sea level were low. These mammoths lived as far inland as what is now Kansas.

Archeologist Marc Handel is unearthing the mammoth bones. / Credit:  OeAW-OeAl/H. Parow-Souchon

According to the Penn State University Mammoth Genome Project, during the Pleistocene epoch  1.8 million to 10,000 years ago  humans hunted mammoths for their meat and for building materials.

Researchers estimate there were several million mammoths during the early to mid Pleistocene epoch, but in the later years of this epoch, hunting could have affected the mammoth population.

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Man found guilty on all charges in 2019 homicide on Morehead Ave

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR)A Roanoke jury found a man guilty of all charges in connection to the 2019 homicide of Salonya Evans.

On July 21, 2019, police responded to the 900 block of Morehead Avenue SE on a report that someone had been shot. Responding officers found 24-year-old Evans with a gunshot wound outside of a residence. She was later pronounced dead at the scene.

ORIGNAL REPORTING: Man arrested in 2019 homicide case in Roanoke

During the investigation, police identified 32-year-old Kai Lansana of Alexandria as a suspect. Lansana, who was in custody in the Frankfort County Regional Jail in Kentucky, was extradited back to Roanoke on Nov. 22, 2022, and charged with First Degree Murder, Use of a Firearm in Commission of a Felony, and Statutory Burglary in connection to the shooting.

On May 24, 2024, Lansana was found guilty on all three charges. He will be sentenced at a later date.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
Man found guilty of killing grandparents to get inheritance

On Thursday, a jury found a U.S. Army veteran guilty of murdering his grandfather and great-grandmother on Fathers Day in 2020 to get an inheritance.

Gene Alexzander Alex Scott, who served in the U.S. Army, shot and killed them in a mobile home on Doe Street in Richburg, South Carolina, prosecutors said.

Trial begins for man accused of murdering grandparents for inheritance

A trial started two weeks ago in Chester County.

Scott told deputies he went to visit the victims, Gene Rogers and Billy Ruth Rogers, when he found their bodies.

Prosecutors told the jury Scotts grandfather gave him more than $80,000 that year, but he wanted the money from the life insurance and retirement accounts.

Scott was sentenced to 60 years in prison. He will not be eligible for parole.

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TOPEKA (KSNT)  Fred Bettencourt was taking his dogs for a walk around Lake Shawnee earlier this week when he had an unexpected wildlife encounter he wont forget anytime soon.

27 News caught up with Bettencourt after he posted some photos to social media of his close encounter with a juvenile barred owl. He says he stumbled across the owl while walking his dogs around Lake Shawnee around 8 p.m. on May 21.

Just happened to stumble upon that guy in the middle of the road and just couldnt stand to have him eaten by a fox or any other type of critter, Bettencourt said.

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Seeing an owl up close was a first for Bettencourt who wanted to make sure the animal returned to its nest safely without being attacked by another animal or being hit by a passing car. He stayed with the owl for around an hour as others walked over to look at the bird.

(Photo Courtesy/Fred Bettencourt)

(Photo Courtesy/Fred Bettencourt)

(Photo Courtesy/Fred Bettencourt)

(Photo Courtesy/Fred Bettencourt)

(Photo Courtesy/Fred Bettencourt)

(Photo Courtesy/Fred Bettencourt)

After I got him out of the road, I stuck my hand out and he jumped on my hand and he kept staring at me with those big black eyes, Bettencourt said.

The owl made several attempts to jump off Bettencourts hand and fly away, only to end up falling back to the ground. Bettencourt said he could hear another owl in the trees, what he believed was the fledglings mother, calling out the entire time.

What to do if you find baby bunnies in your yard

Eventually, the owl successfully flew back to its nest to be reunited with its family. Bettencourt said the whole experience left him feeling pretty good.

I spent 21 years in the Coast Guard, Bettencourt said. Spent a career saving human lives, so why not save an owl?

If you find injured or orphaned wildlife in Kansas, you can try taking them to local wildlife refuges like Operation Wildlife OWL). Learn more about OWL by clicking here.

For more Kansas Outdoors, 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

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Man injured after being trapped near Snowden Dam in Big Island

BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. (WFXR)  Multiple Emergency Service teams assisted in a technical rescue off US-501 in the Big Island area of Bedford County on Friday, May 24.

Amherst County Pubic Safety Officer Brad Beam told WFXR News on the scene that crews received a call at around noon on a report for a person who had sustained an industrial-type injury. Crews arrived and found a man trapped inside a confined space over water and had fallen 15 feet.

Beam reports multiple agencies were called to assist with the rescue, including the Lynchburg, Monelision Volunteer, and Big Island Volunteer Fire Departments. Bedford Fires Special Operations Tactical Team was also on the scene with rescue boats in case a water evacuation was needed.

Man injured after rollover crash on Lakeside Drive in Lynchburg

Crews used a technical rescue approach to get the patient out, using rope systems to get the man out of the small space and specialized boards to stabilize him. Units were on scene for around two hours, working to extract the patient.

Beam reports the man sustained a non-life-threatening injury to his leg and was taken to a local hospital to receive treatment.

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NILES, Ill.  A man was injured in a drive-by shooting in Niles early Friday morning.

Officers responded to the 9200 block of North Maryland Street just after 12:15 a.m. on the report of a person shot.

Police believe a 49-year-old man was walking on a sidewalk when a dark-colored SUV pulled up.

A gunman inside fired shots at the man, striking him one in the buttocks. He was transported to a local hospital in serious condition.

No one is in custody. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 847-588-6570.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD)  A man who opened fire on another customer at a Kalamazoo-area liquor store last year will serve years in a federal prison.

Julius Robinson was sentenced to eight years, two months behind bars and three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

The shooting happened Feb. 23, 2023, in the parking lot of the Bronco Liquor Store at W. KL Avenue and Drake Road in Oshtemo Township. The following week, authorities released surveillance video showing what happened: In it, two shooters were seen following a victim out of the store, there was an exchange of words and the two men drew their guns and fired several shots. No one was hit.

Video shows shooting outside Kalamazoo-area liquor store

In a Friday release, the U.S. Attorneys Office said the shooting followed a brief dispute inside the liquor store. It says the victim was annoyed by how long Robinson took at the register, the two argued and Robinson said, Ill kill you in here, bro. Ultimately, Robinson fired four shots in the parking lot, prosecutors say.

The other customer did not pose a threat in any way prior to Robinson firing his gun, the release said.

Prosecutors say Robinson was using a .40-caliber Glock pistol with an extended magazine that could hold 30 bullets. They say an FBI task force ultimately found that gun, still loaded, in a drawer in his bedroom when they searched Robinsons home.

A crime scene photo provided by the U.S. Attorneys Office shows the firearm found in Julius Robinsons bedroom.

It is a miracle no one was hurt, U.S. District Court Judge Paul Maloney said as he sentenced Robinson, according to the release. Mr. Robinson represents a very, very significant risk to the law abiding public and the community needs to be protected for a long time.

The task force used evidence at the scene and the surveillance video to identify Robinson as their suspect, prosecutors said. They added that when he phoned his girlfriend from jail, he told her to lie for him.

The U.S. Attorneys Office said that the judge made Robinsons sentence longer because he was trying to kill the other man and because he told his girlfriend to lie.

Authorities said ballistics showed Robinson had also fired the same gun two weeks previous in the same liquor store parking lot. He now has four gun-related convictions.

U.S. Attorney Mark Totten held news conferences around West Michigan Thursday to announce the return of the Safe Summer campaign, which aims to crack down on gun violence by prosecuting cases if they include a federal offense and if the gun has been used in previous crimes. During one of the news conferences, the Grand Rapids police chief said that his department has seen up to 12 crimes involving the same illegally possessed gun.

Federal prosecutors cracking down on gun violence this summer

In communities that experience gun violence, only a few individuals are responsible for driving that violence, Totten said in a statement Friday.  The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Michigan is laser-focused on using our resources  and the lengthy federal sentences we often bring to the table  to incapacitate active shooters like Robinson.

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NANJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Cao Guangjing, former vice governor of central China's Hubei Province, has been sentenced to life in prison on charges of accepting bribes and divulging inside information.

The sentence was announced by a court in the city of Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, on Friday.

The court found that between 2004 and 2022, Cao had taken undue advantage of his various posts, including those as a senior executive of the China Three Gorges Corporation and as the vice governor of Hubei, to provide help for others in matters such as business operation, project contracting, and project development. In return, he accepted over 216 million yuan (about 30.4 million U.S. dollars) in cash and gifts.

Also, in 2021, when Cao served as Hubei vice governor and led the restructuring of a listed company, he disclosed inside information to others, enabling them to profit from buying and selling the company's stocks, gaining over 10 million yuan, according to the court.

The court sentenced Cao to life imprisonment and ruled that he would also be deprived of political rights for life, and all of his personal property would be confiscated. All his illegal gains would be recovered and turned over to the state treasury.

The court said Cao's act of bribery involved an especially huge amount of bribes and the circumstances of his disclosure of inside information were particularly severe.

However, Cao had voluntarily turned himself in, showed remorse, and had been cooperative in returning the illegal gains, which had been recovered in full. These facts were taken into consideration when handing down the sentence. 
DENVER (KDVR)  A 28-year-old man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court on Wednesday to cyberstalking, sextortion and identity theft in schemes that crossed state borders, with victims in Colorado, Ohio and Washington.

Omoruyi O. Uwadiae was charged in the Southern District of Ohio in April through a bill of information, rather than an indictment. He pleaded guilty to 22 charges, namely:

Eight counts of cyberstalking, each of which is punishable by up to five years in prison

Seven counts of making interstate communications with the intent to extort, each punishable by up to two years in prison

Seven counts of unlawfully using a means of identification, each punishable by up to five years in prison

According to the plea agreement, Uwadiae targeted young gay men on Grindr, a dating app, among other sites. After contacting someone, he would obtain sexually explicit materials from the victims and then use the content to extort them for money, sex or to make damaging admissions such as being a racist, the plea agreement stated.

Court records say Uwadiae admitted to threatening to distribute the materials on the internet and to victims specific friends, family members and employers, among others. Southern District Court of Ohio records also say that he carried out those threats multiple times.

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James Allbee, a FOX31 tactical expert and private investigator, has dealt with these types of cases and told FOX31s Gabby Easterwood that these cases are more common than some may think.

Its a lot more common than we want to think and its embarrassing. A lot of these people dont want to come forward and report to law enforcement. Its easier to pay them off a couple hundred bucks, Allbee said.

Many of the victims had not publicly disclosed their sexual orientation, prosecutors argued, and Uwadiae outed their identity against their wishes. Uwadiae admitted to also using various victims identifications to create fake social media accounts, which he then used to post their personal information.

According to the Southern District Court of Ohio, Uwadiae demanded that one victim, a student at Ohio State University, either pay him $200 or have sex with him. When the student did not concur and comply, Uwadiae created fake social media accounts using actual photos of the victim and accompanying them with statements like this guy is gay, see pics for evidence.

In this case, the victim had previously told Uwadiae that he was concerned his family would react negatively if his sexual identity were to be made public.

With internet usage and online dating up, the likelihood of someone becoming a victim is on the rise. Unfortunately, it seems like these are going to be a growing trend, especially I mean obviously everybody is on the internet, these types of cases are becoming more and more common, Allbee said.

Financial influencer barred from selling in Colorado

The FBI recommends that anyone being exploited take the following actions:

Report the predators account through the platforms safety features.

Block the predator.

Save the profile or messages as they can help law enforcement identify and stop the predator.

Ask for help from law enforcement before sending money or more images.

A sentencing date has not been included in federal court records.

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A Chicago man pleaded guilty to multiple cyberstalking, sextortion, and identity theft crimes involving dozens of victims in multiple states including an Ohio State University student.

28-year-old Omoruyi O. Uwadiae of Chicago admitted to obtaining sexually explicit photographs and videos from potential victims and then using the content to threaten them.

Uwadiae threatened to post the photos and videos to the internet and send them directly to the victims friends, family members, employers, and others.

>> Deputies investigating reported shooting in Montgomery County

He targeted young gay men on Grindr and other online sites. He would obtain their sexually explicit photos and videos consensually and then extort the victims with them.

Uwadiae demanded money, or sex from the victims, as well as damaging admissions like forcing the victims to claim they were racist.

On multiple occasions, he carried out his threats, sending photos and videos to the victims friends, and family (including at least one victims mother, at least one victims brother, and at least one victims sister), employers, and posted sexually explicit photos and videos widely on the internet.

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Multiple victims had not publicly disclosed their sexual orientation, and Uwadiae disclosed it against their wishes.

Uwadiae also used the victims identity to create fake social media accounts to post the victims personal information online.

One victim was a student at The Ohio State University who communicated with Uwadiaw on Grindr. Ultimately, Uwadiae demanded that the victim either pay him $200 or have sex with him. When the victim refused, Uwadiae created fake social media accounts using photos of the victim stating this guy is gay, see pics for evidence.

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The victim had not told his family about his sexual orientation and had told Uwadiae he was concerned that his family would react negatively if they learned he was bisexual.

Uwadiae was charged in the Southern District of Ohio in April by a bill of information. He pleaded guilty to 22 total counts.

He pleaded guilty to eight counts of cyberstalking, punishable by up to five years in prison, seven counts of making interstate communications with the intent to extort, up to two years in prison, and seven counts of unlawfully using a means of identification, punishable by up to five years in prison.

Uwadiae has not been sentenced yet, as the maximum statutory sentences will be set by Congress. The sentencing will be determined by the court based on these guidelines.








NORFOLK  A man pleaded guilty this week to raping a housekeeper at knifepoint at a downtown Norfolk hotel.

Donte Jamal Davis, 30, of Virginia Beach, pleaded guilty to a single count of rape for the May 2023 assault on the sixth floor of the Norfolk Waterside Marriott on Main Street. In exchange for Davis plea, the judge and prosecutors agreed to cap his potential sentence at no more than 31 years in prison. Sentencing was scheduled for Aug. 2.

According to a release from the commonwealths attorneys office, the woman was cleaning a hotel room with the door ajar when Davis came in, threatened her with a knife, and raped her.

A supervisor who came by to check on the womans work heard her call for help and went in, the release said. Davis pushed past the supervisor, ran out of the room and threatened to kill the supervisor when she chased him.

Photos from the hotels security footage were quickly distributed to Norfolk police and local security agencies, the release said. Later that day, an off-duty officer saw Davis boarding a light rail train.

Investigators obtained the trains security footage and a search warrant for Davis home. There, they found belongings that matched items the suspect was seen with at the hotel and on the train. DNA testing of some of the recovered items confirmed he was the perpetrator, the release said.

Jane Harper, jane.harper@pilotonline.com
A Chicago man on Wednesday pleaded guilty in an Ohio federal courtroom to extorting money and sex from men he met through social media and Grindr, the popular gay dating and hookup app.

Omoruyi Uwadiae, 28, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Columbus to 22 counts including cyberstalking, interstate communications with the intent to extort, and unlawfully using a means of identification, the Columbus Dispatch reported.

Uwadiae targeted at least eight men in multiple states on Grindr and social media in 2019, according to court records. The men consensually provided Uwadiae with sexually explicit photographs and videos, which he used to extort cash payments or sex. If a victim refused to comply with his demands, he threatened to reveal the imagery to the mans family, friends, and coworkers directly or via public exposure online. For victims unable or unwilling to pay, Uwadiae reportedly demanded they make false incriminating statements to ensure their silence.

When one victim, a student at Ohio State University, rebuffed his demands for $200 or sex, Uwadiae created fake social media profiles where he posted the young mans pics with the caption, this guy is gay, see pics for evidence, local CBS affiliate WBNS reported. In court documents, the student said Uwadiae knew he was not out to his family and feared their reaction, but outed him anyway.

In other instances, Uwadiae posted photos of the victims to Male General, a blog popular with young gay men.

Uwadiae will be sentenced at a later date, facing well over 50 years in prison if convicted on all counts and the sentences are served consecutively.
Man pulled over in NN for unrestrained child was caught with illegal drugs and firearm

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY)  A man was sentenced in Newport News on Thursday to six and a half years in prison after he was caught with illegal possession of drugs and a firearm, a release states.

29-year-old Daquan Lane was originally pulled over on Sept. 9, 2022, after Newport News police saw a 7-year-old child not properly secured in the vehicle. While conducting a traffic stop, the officers saw a bag of suspected narcotics poking out from the pocket of Lanes hoodie.

Daquan Lane

Lane refused to leave the vehicle and officers discovered more drugs while attempting to remove him.

The narcotic bags fell from his hoodie pocket. NNPD recovered bags containing 8.37 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, 4.69 grams of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, 8.19 grams of methamphetamine, 4.71 grams of cocaine and a flip phone. NNPD also conducted a search of the vehicle, finding a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun, two digital scales containing narcotics residue and approximately 140 grams of marijuana in 12 separate bags.

Due to his status as a felon from a 2013 incident, Lane was not legally allowed to possess a gun. In 2013, Lane was convicted of shooting at an occupied building, attempted malicious wounding, two counts of use/display a firearm during commission of a felony and reckless handling of a firearm.

On Oct. 30, 2023, Lane pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Check with WAVY.com for updates

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FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Police said that a man who was responsible for a sexual assault that took place in Springfield in 2013, then left the country, was in custody on Friday.

The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) said the U.S. Department of Justice helped in the arrest of David Ernesto Cuevas Maldonado who was 27 when officers first arrested him in 2014. FCPD said Cuevas Maldonado was released on bond and fled to El Salvador, which is where he was rearrested.

Hidden cameras found in Northside Social bathrooms, Falls Church police say

Cuevas Maldonado is accused of assaulting someone who didnt know him inside a home in the 7200 block of Commerce St. on Oct. 21, 2013.

Following his arrest in El Salvador, Cuevas Maldonado was extradited to Fairfax County where he was in the adult detention center with no bond.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Man sentenced following crash that caused San Marcos officer to lose her leg

HAYS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN)  A San Marcos man was sentenced May 16 following a 2019 crash that led to a San Marcos police officer losing her leg.

According to Hays County court documents, 63-year-old Neil Sheehan was charged with failure to slow or vacate lane causing bodily injury, a class B misdemeanor.

PAST COVERAGE: San Marcos officer struck by suspected drunk driver

Following a plea deal, Sheehan received a sentence of 12 months of community supervision.

During the supervision, he must complete 20 hours of community service, as well as pay nearly $500 in court costs and fines.

PAST COVERAGE: San Marcos officer hit by suspected drunk driver loses leg, has several surgeries ahead

On May 18, 2019, Officer Claudia Cormier was responding to a call of items along Interstate 35, and according to previous coverage, she pulled over to the shoulder to clear the roadway of debris.

Sheehan was previously arrested and charged with Intoxication Assault on a Public Servant.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Man sentenced to life in prison for 2020 fatal stabbings in NE Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A man was sentenced to life in prison Friday for stabbing two people to death in Northeast Portland back in 2020.

Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Eric Dahlin sentenced 42-year-old Phillip Nelson to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 35 years, following an April 26 guilty verdict for both second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter.

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The original incident happened in June 2020, when Nelson fatally stabbed both Cassy Leaton and Najad Nate Hobbs, following a dispute between the victims and Nelson. Leaton and Hobbs roommate told the Portland Police Bureau that the group believed they were renting an apartment on Northeast Davis Street from Nelson. However, the roommates changed the locks to their apartment when they discovered that Nelson was actually a squatter living in the building, court records state.

Cassy Leaton, 22, and Nate Hobbs, 39, died after being stabbed on June 16, 2020 in Northeast Portland. (Photos released by PPB)

Nelson stabbed Leaton and Hobbs numerous times with a knife after they went into the basement of the building where the water control was located, according to court records. Leaton was taken to the hospital, where she later died. Hobbs died at the scene.

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Nelson fled the scene of the stabbing and was arrested by PPB officers two days later.

Nelsons trial was held in Multnomah County Circuit Court from April 8 to April 26.

Nelson is currently in custody in Multnomah County and will be taken to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A 20-year-old man was injured in a shooting at the WeGo bus station in downtown Nashville Friday morning.

Officers were called to the station located at 400 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard around 6:30 a.m. The victim was shot on the outdoor steps between the station and Municipal Auditorium.

WeGo leaders detail transit safety measures in wake of recent violent incidents

(Photo: WKRN)

(Photo: WKRN)

(Photo: WKRN)

(Photo: WKRN)

According to Metro police, a man was shot at least three times at the bus station. He was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

The suspected shooter was identified by authorities as 19-year-old Dejuan Prime. He was charged with attempted criminal homicide and using a gun in the commission of a dangerous felony.

Prime was captured shortly after the shooting in a parking lot near Junior Gilliam Way and Rep. John Lewis Way. His gun, a nine millimeter semi-automatic, was removed from his waistband by the arresting officer who noticed Prime matched the description of the shooter, which had just been issued to officers.

Dejuan Prime (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

The victim told officers he was walking at the bus station and noticed Prime, whom he did not know, staring at him, according to a release. He said Prime began following and threatening him and he told Prime to get away. Metro police reported he threw a cup of coffee on Prime and began to run but Prime followed, caught up with him on the steps, and began shooting.

A WeGo spokesperson released a statement on the shooting, which reads:

We appreciate that MNPD has an enhanced police presence in that area of downtown. We will continue to work closely with them and assist however needed. Eric Melcher | Public Information Officer | WeGo Transit

No additional information on the shooting was immediately released.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

On Thursday, May 23, leaders behind WeGo Public Transit addressed safety concerns after two recent incidents in Nashville, one of them happening on a bus.

A bus operator was attacked by a person with a knife on Monday, May 20. That incident follows a shooting on Thursday, May 16 where two people got into an argument and one of them ended up shot and injured on the steps of WeGo Central.

According to the numbers presented at Thursdays meeting, WeGo has increased spending on

contracted security services from 1.2 to 2.4 million from 2017 to 2024 and expect to invest more. Each bus is also outfitted with three to 16 cameras and there are plans to give them real-time capabilities so emergency responses can be quicker.

WeGo gives around 30,000 rides each day and WeGo Central sees roughly 15,000 visitors daily.

 Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go.

 Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox.

 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police say a woman was arrested after she helped a man wanted for attempted murder and other violent crimes evade detectives.

According to court records, 53-year-old Wonder Brooks has been charged with accessory after the fact.

Thursday at 12:30 p.m., a detective reportedly called Teamwear Graphics on Watman and spoke to Brooks about an employee named Amos Fleming.

Lowes cashier accused of embezzling $17K

According to Shelby County Sheriffs Office records, Fleming has active warrants out for attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, vandalism, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and being a convicted felon in possession of a weapon.

Memphis Police say Brooks, a manager, confirmed that Fleming worked there but that he had gone out to lunch. Brooks allegedly told the detective she would call when Fleming returned.

According to police, the detective called back later and asked when Fleming was expected back. Brooks reportedly told the detective that Fleming was supposed to return at 12:30 but had heard his name on the phone.

Memphis Police say the detective and an agent with the U.S. Marshals Service went to the store to speak to Brooks and ask for any footage of Fleming leaving the store.

Police say Brooks told the detective that Fleming had overheard their conversation because he was in the office behind her. According to police, Brooks told the detective that they were on speaker during the earlier phone call but she got up and walked away when the detective told her about Flemings warrants.

Memphis Police say the detective spoke with another manager who allowed the detective to watch surveillance footage of the outside and inside of the store.

Helicopter tracks stolen car; 3 arrested after crash

According to police, the detective watched footage that matched the time of the phone call with Brooks. The video reportedly shows Brooks talking on the phone and then going to a door. Police say when she came back, Fleming was following behind her.

Memphis Police say that video shows Fleming leaning against a table and listening to Brooks conversation with the detective.

Footage from outside the store reportedly showed Fleming walking to an unknown black car before turning around and going back into the store after someone got his attention. Memphis Police say Fleming is later seen leaving the store. He did not return, police say.

Brooks was booked into jail Thursday and given a $10,000 bond.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
MANILA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Friday said it has approved a loan of 500 million U.S. dollars to strengthen Indonesia's program to reduce plastic marine debris.

The program will focus on supporting the country's National Action Plan for Handling Marine Debris, which aims to reduce plastic waste flow into the oceans by 70 percent by 2025, the ADB said.

"ADB is pleased to partner with Indonesia to reduce marine debris while promoting the development of the blue economy," said ADB Country Director for Indonesia Jiro Tominaga.

Rampant plastic pollution has threatened Indonesia's coastal areas, home to 70 percent of the country's population and vital for major economic contributors including marine tourism and fisheries.

By approving the loan, the ADB promises to support Indonesia's action plan by improving plastic waste management, reducing problematic plastic production and consumption, and strengthening data and monitoring tools for policy making. 
Oklahoma City's MAPS 3 initiative saw its final project celebrated Wednesday with the launch of the latest senior health and wellness center at 13660 S Western Ave.

The new YMCA Healthy Living Center offers various amenities and services meant to support residents age 50 and older. The 44,800-square-foot facility features a large fitness center, a gym with pickleball setups, a heated lap and therapy pool, an indoor jogging track, a health clinic, a game room, a demonstration kitchen, an arts classroom, and spaces for recreation and sports activities.

The center will be open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Staff are encouraging residents to call 405-378-0420 or go to ymcaokc.org for membership information.

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City CEO Kelly Kay speaks Wednesday during the opening of the YMCA Healthy Living Center in south Oklahoma City. The facility was the final MAPS 3 senior health and wellness center.

Hundreds attended a grand opening ceremony in the center's parking lot. Kelly Kay, CEO for the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, touted the new center as a community-building hub for older adults to combat the risks of isolation and loneliness.

This is such a great example  of our commitment to healthy aging, and that commitment to an improved quality of life for our older adults, Kay said. And most importantly: not to forget those that are the reason were living in the community that were in today, and not to forget them as they need a high quality of life in their older years and an opportunity to grow older in a healthy way.

Related: After several delays, a new Senior Health and Wellness Center is opening in northeast OKC

The center also features six sculptures created by Rachel Mica Weiss titled "Infinite Arches," a project funded by the city's 1% for Arts program. The installation is made of hundreds of polyester rope strands intersecting beneath one another over the fitness center.

Sculptures, created by Rachel Mica Weiss, called "Infinite Arches, are pictured Wednesday at the YMCA Healthy Living Center in Oklahoma City.

'This is a community that invests in itself'

In ribbon-cutting remarks, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt said the facility's opening represents the culmination of the MAPS 3 program, a $777 million initiative that funded eight quality-of-life improvement projects through a one-cent sales tax between 2010 and 2017.

This is a community that invests in itself, Holt said. We have been passing initiatives for 31 years  since 1993, the passage of the original MAPS  and we havent failed anything. And we create these initiatives in a very transparent and collaborative process, and then ultimately you (the residents) get to vote.

Mayor David Holt speaks Wednesday at the opening of the YMCA Healthy Living Center.

Holt noted that MAPS 3, like the first MAPS initiative, passed by a thin margin, but that the more recent MAPS 4 proposal saw a landslide victory at the ballot box.

Once you get a pipeline started, youve always got new things to look forward to, Holt said. People are starting to catch on.

More: Older Oklahomans to benefit from MAPS 3 centers, trails

Other speakers included Ward 5 Councilmember Matt Hinkle, who was elected last year to represent the area in which the center was built, as well as longtime former Ward 5 councilor David Greenwell and South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce President Elaine Lyons.

Former Ward 5 Councilmember David Greenwell speaks Wednesday during the grand opening of the senior health and wellness center.

Greenwell, who was elected to city council in 2011 and did not seek a fourth term in 2023, likened the memories of awaiting the development and completion of the Healthy Living Center to the upsetting experience of standing in line at a popular restaurant for an hour.

"But once you get to the front of the line and you're finally seated, all of that frustration goes away," Greenwell said, "and that's exactly what happened to me (Wednesday) morning getting to walk through it."

MAPS 3 Citizens Advisory Board Chair Tom McDaniel, a former Oklahoma City University president, emceed Wednesday's event. He said it had been an honor to serve the city in the board role and that he had enjoyed working with city councilmembers, subcommittee members and other MAPS advisers as they guided projects to completion over the past 14 years.

Were very excited about the fact that we didnt spend any money until we had the money to spend, and it will start debt-free, McDaniel said. And thats been one of the tenets of all the MAPS projects, and it certainly applies here today.

What MAPS projects will start in 2024? Everything to know about ongoing OKC projects

MAPS 3 tasks that remain will now fall to the MAPS 4 Citizens Advisory Board, whose committee is providing oversight of 16 projects expected to cost $1.1 billion overall.

On the ambitious MAPS 4 slate is a fifth wellness center budgeted at $16.7 million. Included is an additional $15 million to start an operating fund and provide financial assistance for older adults with low incomes.

Tom McDaniel reacts Wednesday after cutting a ribbon at the YMCA Healthy Living Center grand opening in south Oklahoma City.

What were the MAPS 3 project?

The eight MAPS 3 projects included:

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: YMCA Healthy Living Center, last MAPS 3 project, opens in south OKC
Marqueece Harris-Dawson secures enough support to become the next L.A. City Council president

Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, pictured earlier this year. Seven of his colleagues have nominated him to become the next council president. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Marqueece Harris-Dawson has secured enough backing from his colleagues to become the next president of the Los Angeles City Council.

On Friday, seven council members introduced a motion calling for Harris-Dawson to fill the post, giving him the required eight-member majority, once his own vote is included.

Councilmembers Eunisses Hernandez, Heather Hutt, John Lee, Curren Price, Nithya Raman, Hugo Soto-Martinez and Katy Yaroslavsky signed the motion supporting Harris-Dawson, who has represented a South L.A. district for nearly nine years.

Under the council's rules, the motion will automatically trigger a vote on Harris-Dawson's bid for the presidency on Tuesday. Harris-Dawson, reelected to a third council term earlier this year, would become president on Sept. 20, according to the motion.

"We're excited about the vote, and the office is grateful for the support on the council," said Harris-Dawson spokesperson Rhonda Mitchell.

The motion came three days after Council President Paul Krekorian sent a letter to his colleagues disclosing his plan to step down from the leadership post on Sept. 20. Krekorian became president nearly two years ago, in the wake of an audio leak scandal that prompted the resignation of former Council President Nury Martinez.

A change in council presidents could have a major impact on policymaking at City Hall. The president has the power to decide when issues are included on a meeting agenda. The president also decides the makeup of council committees dealing with public safety, personnel matters, transportation, the environment and many other issues.

Harris-Dawson has support from the council's left flank, which has argued in favor of scaling back police spending and expanding tenant protections. Those members  Hernandez, Raman and Soto-Martinez  opposed a recent package of raises for LAPD officers and, on Thursday, voted no on Mayor Karen Bass' budget.

As president, Harris-Dawson could place those members on the council's powerful budget committee, giving them greater freedom to rework the mayor's spending plan from the moment it is released. Harris-Dawson could also add more of them to the committee that oversees public safety and policing, where Soto-Martinez already occupies a seat.

First elected in 2015, Harris-Dawson represents a district that takes in a large portion of South Los Angeles, including lengthy stretches of Western Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard. He is considered a close ally of Bass, who represented a portion of South L.A. during her time as a legislator.

Harris-Dawson spent several years as the president and chief executive of Community Coalition, a community-based nonprofit and advocacy group that was founded by Bass in 1990. He took over that role in 2004, replacing Bass.

Last week, Harris-Dawson told The Times that he has been speaking with his colleagues about what they want in a president. He said he heard from them that they "want to spend more time in their districts" working on constituent issues.

"It's something that you hear from everybody," he said, adding: "We need to build a work schedule that accommodates that."

Harris-Dawson also picked up support from Lee, who represents the northwest San Fernando Valley and is among the council's most politically conservative members. Lee told The Times a few weeks ago that he hoped Harris-Dawson, if elected president, would bring balance to City Hall on such issues as the economy and public safety.

Harris-Dawson endorsed Lee's bid for another term in the March 5 election, as did Bass.

"I've worked very well with all the members of the council, and that includes Harris-Dawson," Lee said recently. "Some people might find that a surprise, but we've worked very well together."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Mars' Moon May Not Be What We Think, Scientists Claim

Phobos Anomaly

The conventional wisdom about Mars' small and misshapen moons, Phobos and Deimos, is that they were either created like Earth's Moon  carved out of the planet by an impact with a huge object  or that they were passing asteroids that Mars' gravitational field captured, or perhaps remnants from an earlier and larger moon that broke apart.

But a team of scientists from France and Germany have now proposed that Phobos may have been formed from a comet  and that means Deimos could be from the same celestial body, too.

In their study, a preprint for the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics, the scientists stake their claim on images of Phobos taken between 2004 and 2022 by the Mars Express spacecraft, a joint mission by NASA, the European Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency.

By analyzing details and data from the images, which Live Science lays out in an excellent explainer, the scientists discovered that Phobos has certain properties regarding how it reflects sunlight and its porous sand-like surface that are similar to comets whose orbits are heavily influenced by Jupiter.

From these observations, the scientists suggest that Phobos is actually a comet that Mars' gravitational field captured in the distance past. That could also mean, the scientists reason, that Phobos and Deimos both came from the same comet that was subsequently torn apart.

Moon Detective

In order to find out more about the origins of these moons, Japan is planning on launching sometime this decade the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission, a spacecraft dedicated to studying the two lumpy Martian moons.

First, it will orbit Phobos and perform observational studies of that moon before moving onto Deimos and Mars. Then it will attempt to land on the surface of Phobos and collect samples of the moon for a return trip back to Earth.

Studying these samples will hopefully uncover a rich trove of information such as chemical composition  but perhaps most tantalizingly of all, provide an answer to the mysterious origins of Phobos and Deimos.

More on Mars: Probe Detects "Unknown Features" Inside Martian Moon Phobos
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Topeka is officially Mars Wrigleys Halloween headquarters!

The company is marking 10 years in the capital city. Its not quite Halloween yet, but a great way to pay tribute to their time here in Topeka.

27 News spoke with the factorys director Brian Pardo, who says their plant plays a major role in producing popular treats nationwide. He says the company relies on the Topeka factory for much of their production, and sometimes even to roll out new treats.

Pardo also says the Topeka location is the exclusive factory for their fun size and mini chocolate bars, which is why Topeka is now the companys Halloween headquarters.

Shawnee County program helps cut cost of childcare

Being Halloween Headquarters for Mars Wrigley and Topeka the City, its huge for us, Pardo said. Its such an honor to be that cause its a big holiday for Mars and were a big part of this community now here in Topeka.

He told 27 News the Topeka factory now has over 600 associates and that its continuing to expand.

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
FILE - Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey speaks during the inauguration of University of Massachusetts Chancellor Javier Reyes, Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Mullins Center in Amherst, Mass. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has recommended another three individuals for pardons, putting her on track to push for more individual pardons in her first year and a half as governor than her two immediate predecessors recommended in their eight years in office each. (Don Treeger/The Republican via AP, file)

BOSTON (AP)  Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has recommended another three individuals for pardons, putting her on track to push for more individual pardons in her first year and a half as governor than her two immediate predecessors recommended in their eight years in office.

It also follows approval earlier this year of Healeys blanket pardon to those convicted of misdemeanor marijuana charges going back decades  an estimated tens of thousands of individuals, or more.

Healey said the goal of the additional pardons, combined with the sweeping cannabis pardon policy, is to help make the state's justice system fair and equitable.

I look forward to continuing our efforts to use the power of clemency as a tool to right the wrongs of the past and make our state stronger and safer, the Democrat said in a written statement Thursday.

Among those Healey hopes to pardon is Danis Reyes, convicted of distribution of a Class A controlled substance in 1995. Reyes has three children and three grandchildren, is an active community member and works as a local carpenter, according to Healey's office.

Another, William Veal, was convicted of receiving stolen property in 1981 when he was 21 years old. He was also convicted of assault in 1983 and conspiracy to commit larceny in 1991. Veal lives in Brockton, has 10 children and 13 grandchildren, and works as an autobody painter.

Healey has also recommended a pardon for Kenny Jean, convicted of armed robbery in 2016 when he was 18. According to Healey, Jean said that at the time, he was homeless and in desperate need of money. He has since worked to turn his life around.

Healey recommended Jean for a conditional pardon last year, which was approved. She's now recommending him for an unconditional pardon.

In Massachusetts, the governor has the authority to grant clemency for offenses violating state law  including both pardons and commutations  with the consent of the eight-member, elected Massachusetts Governors Council.

The council has already approved 13 of Healey's earlier pardon recommendations.

If the newest recommendations are approved, the number of individual pardons issued under Healey since she took office as governor in January last year would increase to 16.

Healey's predecessor, former Republican Gov. Charlie Baker, recommended 15 pardons during his eight years in office. His predecessor, former Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick issued just four.

Republican Mitt Romney, who served one term, didnt pardon anyone before he left as governor in 2007. Romney served one four-year term.
Matthews daycare employee accused of exposing himself to 4-year-old child: Police

Matthews daycare employee accused of exposing himself to 4-year-old child: Police

MATTHEWS, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A Matthews daycare employee has been arrested after police said he exposed himself to a 4-year-old child.

According to Matthews Police, on May 7, their department was informed of an alleged incident of indecent exposure at the Christ Our Shepherd Daycare (C.O.S. Kids).

Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area  >> Latest stories here

The incident involved an employee at the daycare and a 4-year-old child. After receiving the initial report, this case was transferred to the Criminal Investigations Division.

The suspect identified in this case Kairaba Kente Martin, 43, of Charlotte, has been charged with felony indecent exposure. He turned himself in to the Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office on Thursday, May 23. This remains an open and active investigation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Mayor Brandon Johnson and other city officials unveiled a summer safety plan Friday ahead of Memorial Day weekend, including increased youth programs and expanded police presence across Chicago.

The holiday has historically marked a spike of street violence in the city, lasting throughout the summer. Though Chicago violence has decreased in recent years, dozens were shot over the last Memorial Day weekend.

I will not rest and my administration will not rest until we tackle this problem and stop the violence, Johnson said at a news conference inside the Chicago Cultural Center.

Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said the department will put additional officers on the street by canceling certain days off and adding overtime hours, but he said that the effort would be strategic and deliberate. The practice has drawn scrutiny in years past.

Were dealing with human beings here, who have families, Snelling said. We cant just blindly cancel days off and expect people to show up to work the way we would like to see them work.

Officials also encouraged parents to be watchful of their children once school lets out. It was unclear if Johnson planned to implement a youth curfew downtown, a tactic employed over the past two summers. In May 2022, a 16-year-old was fatally shot near the Bean, leading to a temporary ban on unaccompanied minors in the Millennium Park after 6 p.m.

There are ongoing conversations around how we create safe spaces, as well as time for our young people, Johnson said. We have to make sure that were keeping people safe, but we also have to make sure that were not placing restrictions that ultimately lead to a deeper level of frustration that could manifest in another part of the city.

City officials touted increased youth programming, including summer jobs, residential play areas and a new youth peacemaker program. Dozens of teens will participate in the program, where they will be trained to de-escalate situations and learn how to keep peace in their community.

In order to have a great summer, we must also work hard to make it a safe summer, particularly for our children, said Rosa Escareno, the general superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District.

Johnson cited his administrations continued efforts to invest in communities that frequently experience violence.

Murders are down, shootings are down, but there is still so much work to be done, Johnson said. Every initiative that is undertaken is but a small step in a long and very difficult journey towards lasting peace.
Mayor Brandon Johnson is making more prime space for his progressive base with a new hire.

Johnson created a new role to bring community organizer Kennedy Bartley into his administration. Starting Tuesday, Bartley will serve as managing deputy of external relations, tasked with working more closely with the unions, activist organizations and neighborhood groups that helped make Johnson mayor.

Bartley currently works as the executive director of United Working Families, a political organization closely aligned with the Chicago Teachers Union that serves as an umbrella coalition for various progressive groups and unions.

The move will help Johnsons team make sure that we are executing the vision Chicago elected him to execute, Bartley told the Tribune Friday.

You dont get to put people in office and say you did that. You have to make sure you are following through on your word, she said.

Bartley will be doing work similar to what she already does at UWF, where she helped rally groups behind Johnsons election and major policies like the Bring Chicago Home referendum that sought to create new city revenue earmarked for homelessness by raising real estate transfer taxes, but ultimately failed with voters.

No other administration has had a liaison role like this, said Bartley, who already meets often with top mayoral advisers.

Because no other administration understands that they are mayor for everyone, she added.

Bartleys role will give progressive groups and unions a dedicated ear to air grievances or hopes and a direct source for important updates on the administrations actions. The Johnson administration did not respond Friday when asked how much money she will make in her new role.

Bartley will also help the administration wrangle City Council votes, which has at times proved challenging for the administration during its first year, as when 34 aldermen supported an order Wednesday to take control of the ShotSpotter gunshot detection system from the mayor.

The appointment speaks to the difficulty Johnson faces keeping his base happy now that they expect him to deliver on the ambitious progressive goals he laid out while campaigning for mayor.

Alongside the early-April hiring of Joe Calvello, former communications director for Democratic U.S. Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, the hire marks a continued effort by Johnson to change his communication strategy with allies and the public.

Calvello arrived just as Johnson chief of staff Rich Guidice left the administration. The presence of Guidice, a veteran of several past mayoral administrations, signaled the newly elected mayor was keeping a semblance of Chicago politics old guard even as Johnsons grassroots labor coalition was preaching it would reform city government and do away with archaic ways of governing.

Guidice was replaced by Cristina Pacione-Zayas, a former state senator who was Johnsons deputy chief of staff since the beginning of his term in office.

Three top Johnson officials declined to comment on the hiring Friday.

The new role will help people know this is a mayor who is bringing the margins to the center. That stuff is already happening, Bartley said. I think that that is a sign that this mayor walks the walk, that he does the thing that he talks about.

jsheridan@chicagotribune.com
Across the North State, Memorial Day services will mark those who died in military combat with speeches, flags and flowers.

But one memorial this month will remain powerfully silent  presenting dog tags of the dead, combat boots and an unloaded World War II-era rifle.

People hurry by and barely notice the two display cases in the lobby of the Shasta County Administrative Office at 1450 Court Street that contain a memorial to soldiers who died in wars dating back more than 100 years to World War I and even more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Shasta County Veterans Service Officer Wesley Tucker had the display installed in May and said it will remain through the rest of the month.

The Shasta County Veterans Service Office obtained dog tags for each of the 147 veterans from Shasta County killed in action during war. The dog tags are on display at the Shasta County Administration Center in Redding.

In one display case, the memorial features the dog tags of military service members from Shasta County who were killed in action. A soldier's cross, with a helmet resting on a rifle standing between a pair of combat boots, is featured in an adjacent display.

Together, the two display cases take up an area only about 6-feet-by-5-feet. But to Tucker, they carry a much larger meaning.

Tucker noted that in the nearby Board of Supervisors chambers, there are regular skirmishes in the battle of ideas over local government.

"And so to my mind, they're practicing their right to democracy. So I thought it was important that regardless of which side, or how you felt about your current government  whether you like what you have, or you want to make it different or something  I thought it was good to show people what the weight and the cost of that democracy is. And so that's why I thought it was important for that memorial to be in that building," Tucker said.

The inspiration for the display grew out of a similar memorial for Vietnam War veterans that Amy Hancock, administrative secretary in the Veterans Services Office, had discovered.

So Hancock and Tucker went to work making something like it for all Shasta County veterans who died in action.

Community residents gather on the grounds of the Redding Civic Auditorium for the annual Shasta County Veterans Memorial Day service on Monday, May 30, 2022.

They went to work scouring National Archives records and other sources until they came up with 147 names.

A company in the Fort Bragg area of North Carolina punched out the dog tags with each of the names, performing all the work for free, Tucker said.

The dog tags hang in one case over a green carpet resembling a field decorated with red paper flowers attached to tiny American flags. Tucker said most of the names were for those killed during World War II and the Vietnam War.

The dog tags of two of Tucker's friends from high school hang in the memorial, he said. Tucker also served in the Army in Afghanistan.

"It's just very meaningful to us. And so we want to make sure that they get recognition and then Gold Star families also get the honor they deserve."

A pair of boots and a rifle with a helmet placed on the butt of a rifle make up a Battlefield Cross on display for Memorial Day at the Shasta County Administration Center.

A Battlefield Cross was set up in an adjacent display case, with a helmet set on the butt of replica M1 Garand rifle pointing down between black boots. Dog tags were hung from a chain draped over the rifle. White stars on a blue field covered the back wall of the display.

Erecting a Battlefield Cross, also known as a Soldier's Cross, was a tradition started in World War I and its purpose "is to show honor and respect for the dead at the battle site," according to a placard at the memorial.

"Today, it is a means of showing respect for the dead amongst the still-living troop members," the statement says.

Reporter Damon Arthur welcomes story tips at 530-338-8834, by email at damon.arthur@redding.com and on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @damonarthur_RS. Help local journalism thrive by subscribing today!

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Memorial honors service members from Shasta County
Netflix's TV series "3 Body Problem," directed by Derek Tsang based on Chinese science fiction author Liu Cixin's novel, makes a world premiere on the opening night of the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film and TV Festival in Austin, Texas, the United States, March 8, 2024. (Xinhua/Xu Jianmei)

by Xinhua writers Huang Xinxin, Yu Li

CHENGDU, May 24 (Xinhua) -- As early as 120 years before the launch of China's Chang'e-6 spacecraft, which aims to retrieve samples from the moon's far side, the Chinese people had already envisioned sending humans to the moon.

In 1904, Huangjiang Diaosou, a Qing Dynasty novelist, penned an unfinished novel depicting human migration to the moon, marking China's first original sci-fi work.

Although he never completed his novel, modern sci-fi writers contributed to a book released at the 15th Xingyun (Nebula) Awards for Chinese Science Fiction held in southwest China's Chengdu from May 17 to 19, featuring extended versions of his intriguing tale.

In the new extensions of the tale, some sci-fi writers depict the protagonist departing from the Wenchang Space Launch Site, the launchpad of the Chang'e-6 spacecraft, to build new cities with the inhabitants of the moon. Others describe humans once again setting off from the moon to further explore the galaxy.

A Long March-5 rocket, carrying the Chang'e-6 spacecraft, blasts off from its launchpad at the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, May 3, 2024. (China National Space Administration/Handout via Xinhua)

According to veteran sci-fi writer Ling Chen, in addition to continuing the Chinese people's dream of lunar exploration, the new extensions of the novel also advance Chinese sci-fi literature and art.

In the early 1900s, sci-fi was still a nascent genre in Chinese literature, with only a few active authors besides Huangjiang Diaosou.

Renowned Chinese writers Lu Xun and Liang Qichao also sought to introduce Western sci-fi novels to China to stimulate national enthusiasm for modernization. "From the Earth to the Moon," a sci-fi novel by French author Jules Verne, was translated into Chinese by Lu Xun in 1903.

Today, Chinese sci-fi works are making waves globally. Chinese author Liu Cixin's "The Three-Body Problem" has won the Hugo Award for Best Novel, the world's premier sci-fi award, and has been translated into more than 30 languages, with people like Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Hideo Kojima and Niall Ferguson all fans of the book.

Last October, the World Science Fiction Convention, the world's largest and most influential sci-fi event, was held in China for the first time.

The Xingyun (Nebula) Awards for Chinese Science Fiction have also grown into a world-renowned sci-fi literature award comparable to the Nebula Awards of the United States and the Seiun Awards of Japan.

This aerial photo taken on Oct. 16, 2023 shows a night view of the Chengdu Science Museum, main venue for the 81st World Science Fiction Convention (WorldCon), in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan)

Modern sci-fi is considered a product of the sci-tech and industrial revolutions in the West in the 19th century. Since its introduction to China, Chinese writers have explored nearly all sub-genres of Western sci-fi, including space opera, cyberpunk and time travel.

Chinese sci-fi has greatly evolved over the years and is no longer merely imitating Western sci-fi, said Wang Jinkang, one of China's leading sci-fi writers, adding that while sci-fi universally focuses on the destiny and future of humankind, Chinese sci-fi shares this core feature but offers a distinct perspective.

"Chinese sci-fi provides the Chinese people's insights and solutions to the common dilemmas faced by humankind. People are curious about how Chinese people think and what they will do in the future," said Wu Yan, a sci-fi writer and professor at the Southern University of Science and Technology.

"The Three-Body Problem" is an example," Wu said, explaining that the book explores and addresses global issues from a Chinese perspective.

Hugo Award winner Liu Cixin (front R) autographs for sci-fi lovers during the 81st World Science Fiction Convention (WorldCon) in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Oct. 20, 2023. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan)

At the 15th Xingyun (Nebula) Awards for Chinese Science Fiction, another book titled "The Mountain, the Pine, and the Moon: 56 Chinese Science Fiction Writers' Fantasies of Their Hometowns" was released. It is a collection of works by 56 Chinese sci-fi writers, including Liu Cixin, themed around hometown, nostalgia and imagination.

Shi Yi, one of the editors of the book, said that the inspiration behind publishing the collection stems from a desire to develop a distinctive style in Chinese sci-fi. With a civilization steeped in 5000 years of agricultural heritage, the Chinese culture embodies a deep connection to ancestors and homeland, he said.

Li Jingze, vice chairman of the China Writers Association, said that this approach showcases the unique awareness and creative prowess of Chinese sci-fi within the global sci-fi landscape.

"It serves as a new contribution of Chinese sci-fi to global sci-fi literature," said Yan Feng, professor at Fudan University.

The blockbuster "The Wandering Earth," adapted from Liu Cixin's novel, also emphasizes the theme of home by depicting the human race venturing out to find a new solar system for planet Earth to settle as the sun approaches its demise.

People attend the premiere of the movie "The Wandering Earth II" at a theater in Giza, Egypt, March 11, 2023. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)

"Chinese sci-fi today is no longer an imported product, but a new creation demonstrating the Chinese people's visions of science, the world and the future," Wu said.

Thousands of years ago, the ancient Chinese already used their imagination and questioned the universe through mythology and poetry, which resonates with Chinese sci-fi today.

Chinese sci-fi is now also looking back on Chinese history and philosophy for more inspiration, Wu said, noting that while it has learned from different cultures around the world, Chinese sci-fi remains deeply rooted in Chinese culture, ushering in a period of vibrant development.

"One day in the future, we may launch another book of Chinese sci-fi from Mars. At that moment, people will look at Earth and say, 'The blue planet is the home of those who wrote down the stories, traveled through the universe and created the new world,'" Li Jingze said. 

(Xinhua correspondent Tong Fang contributed to the story.)
Media Matters Hit With More Than a Dozen Layoffs Amid Conservative Legal Assault on Multiple Fronts

Liberal, nonprofit watchdog organization Media Matters for America was hit with major layoffs Thursday. A number of the companys former employees, including Katherine Kat Abu Abughazaleh, took to X to announce the news.

Bad News: Ive been laid off from @mmfa, along with a dozen colleagues, Abughazaleh said. Theres a reason far-right billionaires attack Media Matters with armies of lawyers: They know how effective our work is, and it terrifies them (him).

The far-right billionaires shes referring to include X owner Elon Musk, who filed a defamation suit against Media Matters back in November following a report accusing X of placing ads for brands next to pro-Hitler and white nationalist accounts. Musk said at the time hed file a thermonuclear lawsuit against the organization.

Bad News: Ive been laid off from @mmfa, along with a dozen colleagues.



Theres a reason far-right billionaires attack Media Matters with armies of lawyers: They know how effective our work is, and it terrifies them (him).  Kat Abu (@abughazalehkat) May 23, 2024

Were confronting a legal assault on multiple fronts and given how rapidly the media landscape is shifting, we need to be extremely intentional about how we allocate resources in order to stay effective, Media Matters President Angelo Carusone said in a statement released Thursday about the layoffs. Nobody does what Media Matters does. So, were taking this action now to ensure that we are sustainable, sturdy and successful for whatever lies ahead.

Although specific amounts werent named, TheWrap reported at the time of Musks threat that the suit sought actual and consequential damages caused by Defendants misconduct.

This is a frivolous lawsuit meant to bully Xs critics into silence, Carusone had said in a November statement. Media Matters stands behind its reporting and looks forward to winning in court.

Other laid-off members of Media Matters also announced their departures on X.

journalism milestone achieved (got laid off), Bobby Lewis wrote.

journalism milestone achieved (got laid off)  Bobby Lewis (@revrrlewis) May 23, 2024

I got laid off from Media Matters @mmfa today, proud of the 5 years of intense work I put into fighting right-wing hatred, Alex Paterson said.

I got laid off from Media Matters @mmfa today, proud of the 5 years of intense work I put into fighting right-wing hatred.



I'm an incredible manager with superb research skills. Please hire me!  Alex Paterson (@AlexPattyy) May 23, 2024

got laid off, lmk who wants research done, Brendan Karet added.

got laid off, lmk who wants research done pic.twitter.com/EAfgdNG56v  Brendan Karet (@bad_takes) May 23, 2024

The multi-front legal assault referenced by Carusone likely also refers to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, who announced an investigation into Media Matters following Musks suit in November.

We are examining the issue closely to ensure that the public has not been deceived by the schemes of radical left-wing organizations who would like nothing more than to limit freedom by reducing participation in the public square, Paxton said.

The post Media Matters Hit With More Than a Dozen Layoffs Amid Conservative Legal Assault on Multiple Fronts appeared first on TheWrap.
Liberal watchdog Media Matters fired at least a dozen staffers Thursday  and management and some of the laid-off journalists blamed X owner Elon Musk for the cuts.

The billionaire mogul sued the Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization for defamation last November, accusing the company of manufacturing images showing advertisements from major companies alongside posts made by white supremacists and neo-Nazis.

The lawsuit led to federal probes by Republican Attorneys General Ken Paxton of Texas and Andrew Bailey of Missouri into the outlet for possible fraudulent activity by allegedly manipulating data on the site formerly known as Twitter.

X CEO Elon Musk slapped Media Matters with a defamation lawsuit last November in Fort Worth, Texas federal court. Getty Images

Media Matters did not immediately return requests for comment but its president Angelo Carusone released a statement on Thursday regarding the layoffs.

Were confronting a legal assault on multiple fronts and given how rapidly the media landscape is shifting, we need to be extremely intentional about how we allocate resources in order to stay effective, Carusone said.

Nobody does what Media Matters does. So, were taking this action now to ensure that we are sustainable, sturdy and successful for whatever lies ahead.

Media Matters has laid off a slew of staffers, following federal probes and a lawsuit from X boss Elon Musk. Media Matters

Ousted staffers took to social media Thursday to announce their sudden dismissal, with one having particularly harsh words for Musk.

Bad News: Ive been laid off from @mmfa, along with a dozen colleagues. Theres a reason far-right billionaires attack Media Matters with armies of lawyers: They know how effective our work is, and it terrifies them (him), Kat Abughazaleh wrote.

The Post reached out to Musk for comment.

Other longtime Media Matters journalists lamented the layoffs.

After nearly four years of working at media matters, I got laid off, wrote a staffer named Beatrice. So if anyone is looking for researchers with video experience, drop a line.

abughazalehkat/X

mount_bees/X

revrrlewis/X

Journalism milestone achieved (got laid off), now-former Media Matters writer Bobby Lewis added.

Layoffs at Media Matters today. Lots of smart people available for jobs now, said Jared Holt, a senior researcher at the Institute of Strategic Dialogue.

At the time of the Musk lawsuit, Carusone called it meritless and pointed out that major brands are rightly skittish of partnering with the social media platform.

The suit  which was filed in federal court in Fort Worth, Texas  is still winding through the judicial system.

Media Matters president Angelo Carusone cited its legal assaults in a

statement about layoffs at the outlet. X/Angelo Carusone

Media Matters purge is the latest in a slew of layoffs in the industry  and notably at liberal outlets.

NowThis laid off half of its editorial team in February as part of a broader initiative to realign our resources and structure to ensure a long-term sustainable business in the evolving media landscape, The Daily Caller first reported.

The Intercept also laid off 15 staffers, including its editor in chief Roger Hodge, on the same day. Last month, The New York Times reported that the news site co-founded by Glenn Greenwald is running low on cash and that it is in danger of closing next year.
Media: Ukraine refuses to accept some Leopard 1 tanks from Germany, Denmark due to defects

Ukraine refused to accept some outdated Leopard 1A5 battle tanks from Denmark and Germany due to numerous defects, Danish broadcaster DR reported on May 24, citing Danish Defense Ministry documents.

The defense ministers of Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands promised to send Kyiv at least 100 refurbished Leopard 1A5s from industrial stocks.

The documents said the first tanks were scheduled to be delivered in July 2023. However, the shipment was reportedly delayed because the German defense company KMW faced difficulties in preparing them.

Only 20 tanks had been delivered as of September last year, DR wrote. After receiving and inspecting them, Ukraine found that 18 of the 20 tanks received had minor defects or malfunctions, and two had more serious defects, the documents said.

Some tanks were reportedly delivered with guns that could not fire.

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This means that none of the newly repaired and delivered tanks were ready for combat, the broadcaster reported.

Ukraine refused to accept any tanks in the fall of 2023, telling Denmark and Germany that it could not use them due to their poor condition.

The Kyiv Independent sent a request for comment to Ukraines Defense Ministry but has not received a response at the time of publication.

Denmarks Defense Ministry confirmed to DR that Berlin decided to accept help from Danish mechanics. As of now, more than 90 tanks have been repaired, but not all have been delivered.

Berlin, Ukraine's second-largest military donor after Washington, has handed over another delivery of military aid to Ukraine, the German government said on May 22. The latest tranche included Leopard 1 tanks from Germany and Denmark, dozens of reconnaissance drones, ammunition, and other aid.

Read also: Spain announces aid package for Ukraine containing Leopard tanks, Patriot missiles

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian forces damaged two Russian aircraft in Russia's Krasnodar Krai with drones overnight on May 19, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) reported, citing satellite imagery by Planet Labs.

Ukrainska Pravda reported earlier on May 19 that the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces launched a drone attack on Russia's Kushchyovskaya airfield and the Slavyansk oil refinery.

According to an SBU source cited by Ukrainska Pravda, dozens of aircraft used to attack Ukraine and its military were stationed at the Kushchyovskaya airfield at the time of the attack.

A Russian Su-27 and Su-34 aircraft stationed at the airfield were reportedly damaged, according to RFE/RL.

An expert reportedly confirmed to RFE/RL that the Su-34 had "damaged or removed wings" and the Su-27 was "clearly damaged."

The Kyiv Independent could not independently verify the outlets' claims.

Read also: Opinion: How many planes does Russia have?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Republican Summer Portzen is running unopposed for another term as Dallas County treasurer.

To help voters, the Des Moines Register sent questions to all federal and Des Moines area legislative candidates running for political office this year. Their answers have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

The primary election is scheduled for June 4 ahead of the Nov. 5 general election.

More: Early voting has started for Iowa's June 4 primary election. Here's what you should know:

Who is Summer Portzen?

Summer Portzen

Age: 34

Party: Republican

Current town of residence: Adel

Education: Finance and real estate, University of Northern Iowa

Occupation: Dallas County treasurer

Political experience and civic activities: I've worked for the county for 10 years. I am a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the city of Adel.

Why are you running?

Portzen: What drew me to the property tax department in the first place was my passion for investing and managing money. My work experience and education has provided me with the knowledge to step into this role from day one. It's an honor to serve the citizens of Dallas County.

What is the most important issue facing Dallas County and how would you address it in office?

Portzen: It's no secret Dallas County is the fastest growing county in Iowa and in the country right now. This is the biggest challenge facing all elected officials and department heads within the county. The challenge is how do we keep providing services to Dallas County residents and maintain a practical budget. I want to continue to make improvements where necessary with the use of technology to keep overhead low.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Meet Dallas County Treasurer Summer Portzen, running for reelection
U.S. Census map of Florida's Congressional District 13

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

As a crowd tightly packed the Scottish Cultural Center in Ron DeSantis hometown of Dunedin last week, four Democrats attempted to make the case for why they are the best option for voters hungry to oust conservative Republican incumbent Anna Paulina Luna from office in November after her first term representing most of Pinellas County in Floridas Thirteenth Congressional District.

Whoever survives the Aug. 20 primary will be a decided underdog to Luna this fall, as the district was drawn to be solidly Republican during the most recent congressional redistricting process in 2022.

That turned the seat from a previously safe Democratic district into an even safer GOP-leaning area, with the heart of its liberal base (eastern and southern parts of St Petersburg) moved into the already strongly Democratic District 14 seat held by Hillsborough Countys Kathy Castor.

The Cook Political Report lists the race as Likely Republican, defined as not considered competitive at this point but has the potential to become engaged. The Center for Politics Sabatos Crystal Ball and Inside Elections also list the race as Likely Republican.

Yet its also possibly the only seat that the Florida Democrats have a hope and a prayer of flipping this year in what has become an increasingly red state.

Touting the most endorsements and fundraising totals is Whitney Fox, 36. Shes received backing not only of Castor but also other Florida Democrats such as Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, and Lois Frankel.

Fox also draws union support from the American Federation of Government Employees and the International Union of Operating Engineers. Most recently, she worked as director of communications and marketing at the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority.

Fox says that she individually approached both former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and former Democratic state House member Ben Diamond to inquire whether they were going to run for the party nomination. When they said no and then encouraged her to run, she decided to seize the moment and become one of the first candidates to get into the race.

Establishment links

Liz Dahan,44, was raised in South Florida but has mostly called Washington, D.C., her home for the past two decades. Her CV is cluttered with D.C. Establishment links, including stints with the World Bank, the Council on Foreign Relations, the office of then Democratic Senate Leader Tom Daschle, the Albright Stonebridge Group (originally chaired by former Secretary of State Madeline Albright and co-chaired by former National Security Adviser Sandy Berger), and for the past eight years shes served as a partner with the Brunswick Group, a D.C. business consultancy.

Although she visited her aunt in Clearwater as a youth, shed never been a full-time resident of Pinellas County until this year. But thats not much different from Luna, a Southern California native who moved to the district only a short time before her first run for the CD 13 seat in 2020.

Sabrina Bousbar, 27, is a Florida State University undergrad who gained a masters degree in emergency management and natural disasters at Georgetown University on the same day that last weeks forum took place.

She grew up in the county, first in Pinellas Park, and now lives in Largo. She worked as one of the first field organizers for the Joe Biden campaign in Iowa in 2019, and says the campaign utilized her trilingual skills (she says she speaks fluently in English, Spanish, and Arabic) to work as a field organizer in South Florida leading up to the election.

She then was hired to work as deputy director of transportation for the Biden inauguration. She served in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services over the past three years.

Mark Weinkratz, 67, is an Air Force Veteran and former airline pilot for Northwest. A resident of Palm Harbor in North Pinellas, Weinkrantz is the only candidate with previous experience in local government, as an East Lake fire commissioner. He has the backing of two former Republican County Commissioners, Susan Latvala and Karen Seel.

There is a fifth candidate who qualified for the primary: John Liccione. However, he was not permitted to participate in the gathering, and will not receive any institutional support from the Pinellas County Democratic Executive Committee, according to party chair Jennifer Griffith, because he did not pass a vetting process.

Disdain for Luna

During the candidate forum last week, all four Democrats identified similar issues that they consider priorities, such as climate change, abortion rights, and standing up for democracy.

And, of course, their mutual enmity for Luna, whom they claim is simply too conservative for the district.

The 35-year-old Luna is definitely one of the more right-leaning members of Congress. The first Mexican-American woman elected to Congress from Florida, she has supported impeaching President Joe Biden and last year successfully sponsored a resolution to censure California Rep. Adam Schiff for comments he made about investigations into Donald Trumps ties to Russia.

Last week, she became part of a group of GOP lawmakers who want to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Trump. Just hours before the forum took place, she became the latest Florida Republican to make the caravan to Manhattan to show solidarity with the former and potentially future president of the United States at his hush-money and campaign-finance violation trial.

So, I entered the race about six weeks ago, because I couldnt stand by and watch Anna Paulina Luna destroy our democracy any longer, said Dahan.

My girls are growing up with fewer rights that I did, said Fox. Doctors are leaving our state. Women will die. Anna Paulina Luna supports this six-week [abortion] ban that is in place here in Florida, and she supports a national ban.

Right now, we have extremist Anna Paulina Luna, added Bousbar. She is denying our fundamental rights as women. Shes denying and disregarding the climate crisis, and shes cutting Social Security and Medicare for a district that needs it the most.

(That was apparently a reference to the Republican Study Committee, which Luna belongs to, supporting a proposal to raise the Social Security retirement age for younger workers, as well as transitioning Medicare to a premium support model in which the program would compete with private plans and beneficiaries would receive subsidies to shop for preferred policies, according to Spectrum News.)

Luna response

Olivia Carson is the campaign manager for Luna. She spoke to the Phoenix on Thursday afternoon to address some of the comments, beginning with where Luna is on abortion.

Rep. Luna has never said that its a federal issue, Carson said. Its a states rights decision as was made by the Supreme Court.

There also were some comments about the climate and the environment, so while were on that topic, Rep. Luna has been the most strong supporter of beach renourishment and fighting for our sea turtles and manatees, so anything about her not caring about the climate or the environment is just false, Carson continued.

She has brought home millions back to the district and fixed Social Security problems for many constituents. We have a fantastic caseworker team on our official congressional side that has brought back hundreds of thousands of dollars for people who need returns from Social Security, so her wanting to cut Social Security is completely false.

As you can tell by these false claims from candidates running against her, theyre not serious. Theyre not able to smartly discuss her platform or her voting record, and are unable to address local issues, which is a shame especially if theyre at a candidate forum where candidates are there to learn. We would expect them to be factual.

Abortion

Regarding the states six-week abortion ban, which went into effect on May 1 and has been described by anti-abortion advocates as a heartbeat bill, Luna was interviewed in 2023 on a podcast called EWTN Pro-Life Weekly. At that time, the ban had been proposed in the Florida Legislature but not yet signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

It needs to happen, she said, adding, I have faith within my governor, within the state of Florida Legislature, to do the right thing and follow the science and actually protect life at heartbeat.

But while that position may be out of favor of the majority of voters in the district, the 2022 redistricting map approved by DeSantis makes this a solidly red constituency. Moreover, as in virtually every other place in the state, Republicans continue to run up their numbers compared to Democrats in voter registration. More than 50,000 more registered Republicans than Democrats live in Congressional District 13, according to the Florida Division of Elections.

The four Democrats maintain they can overcome that disadvantage if they win the nomination in August.

What I learned from working with Tom [Daschle] is, you have to find the common ground, Dahan said at the forum. You have to be able to understand what the other side is actually looking for, and then you have to work really damn hard to find that common ground. I learned that from him, I will bring that to my service for the people of Pinellas County.

Still, no straight-line Democrat is going to win this district, said Weinkrantz. Ive been committed and invested in this community for over 30 years, I have really broad support from influential Republicans and, between them and the number of nonparty-affiliated [voters], I feel really good about succeeding and beating Luna.

We are building the coalition necessary to defeat Anna Paulina Luna, Bousbar said. We have Republicans, independents, Democrats, people from all walks of life. Its for the people. Its about bringing everyone together because right now our Congress is playing performative politics.

We are confident in our path to victory because I am running as a candidate who is not afraid to talk to people in the Republican Party, said Fox. I have many relationships with Republicans in this district and Republican elected leaders, and we are having very candid, sincere conversations with them.

Fox added that this is the moderate, pragmatic district with iconic leaders like Charlie Crist, David Jolly, and Bill Young, referring to the last three officials who held the seat, with Jolly and Young being Republicans (Young serving from 1971 to 2013).

Not so moderate

However, longtime observers of Pinellas County politics conclude that the district isnt so moderate anymore.

Both Republican and Democratic parties bases have moved more to the right and to the left the last several years, said Barry Edwards, who has worked with Democratic and Republican candidates in Pinellas County elections for decades. She [Luna] is reflecting the partys move to the more conservative side and, like Bill Young, she has an interest in defense policy and foreign affairs.

Luna has been outspoken in opposing additional funding for Ukraine, but that stance is in sync with the majority of Republican voters. A CBS News/YouGov survey released last month showed that 61% of Republicans oppose sending weapons and military aid to Ukraine. She reflects where the majority of the base of her party is, which is why she didnt get any challengers in her primary, Edwards said.

Redistricting moved the district from a Democratic +2 points district to a Republican +6 or possibly +7 district, Edwards said.

Daryl Paulson is emeritus professor of government at the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg. A former Republican who has listed Ronald Reagan, Barry Goldwater, and William F. Buckley as his political heroes, he left the party to become an independent in 2017 following the election of Donald Trump.

He says the CD 13 seat isnt what it used to be, because the Republican Party nationally isnt the same.

What youre seeing in Pinellas County is sort of a microcosm nationally, he says. Its not the Republican Party, its the party of Donald Trump, and Luna is one of the Trumpites.

Paulson noted that Luna had been a newcomer to Pinellas, which previously might have been a detriment to her electoral chances, but that changed when she was backed by Trump in September 2021. Shes somebody who pledged her affiliation early on to Donald Trump and, in many cases across the country, thats been the difference for winning Republican candidates.

Whether any Democrat can take down Luna wont be known until the fall. But these candidates have about two months before the first vote-by-mail ballots go out to make their case that they can flip the seat in November.

The post Meet the Democrats who want to oust Anna Paulina Luna from Congress this fall appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
Members of the U.S. Senate face a vote on whether they support contraception access

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced on Wednesday that the Senate will vote in June on legislation guaranteeing the right to access contraception. Shown is a packet of birth control pills. (Getty Images)

U.S. senators will go on record next month with whether they support legislation from Democrats that would guarantee access to contraception  a right currently upheld by two Supreme Court cases, but one that has been singled out by a conservative justice.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, announced Wednesday the chamber would vote on the bill in June, saying it would help to bolster womens reproductive rights at a crucial time. Sixty votes will be needed for the bill to advance.

Now, more than ever, contraception is a critical piece of protecting womens reproductive freedoms, Schumer said.

The move to hold a procedural vote on the legislation, which has 49 co-sponsors, came just one day after Donald Trump, the Republican presumptive nominee for president, said that his campaign would be releasing a policy on contraception in the next week.

Trump seemed to be open to state restrictions on contraception, though he later backtracked in social media comments.

Were looking at that and Im going to have a policy on that very shortly and I think its something that youll find interesting, Trump said on KDKA in Pittsburgh. Its another issue thats very interesting. But you will find it very smart. I think its a smart decision, but well be releasing it very soon.

Trump had been asked if he supports any restrictions on a persons right to contraception.

Trump later said that things really do have a lot to do with the states. And some states are going to have different policies than others. That comment came after Trump was asked if he may want to support some restrictions, like the morning-after pill or something?

In Congress

The House approved a bill similar to the Senate legislation in July 2022 that was sponsored by North Carolina Democratic Rep. Kathy Manning. The chamber at the time was controlled by Democrats.

That measure defined contraception as an action taken to prevent pregnancy, including the use of contraceptives or fertility-awareness based methods, and sterilization procedures.

Senate Democrats tried to pass their version of the so-called Right to Contraception Act the same month, but Iowa Republican Sen. Joni Ernst blocked the unanimous consent request.

Unanimous consent is the fastest way to approve legislation in the Senate, but it allows any one lawmaker to block passage. There is no recorded vote during that process, but there will be next month when Schumer holds the procedural vote.

If the legislation gains 60 votes, which would require some Republican support, it would move on to a simple majority vote.

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, who in 2022 co-sponsored a bipartisan bill to protect some abortion rights and access to contraception, did not respond a question about whether she would support the Democrats latest bill.

Democrats were attempting to enact statutory protections for contraception two years ago following the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization ruling by the Supreme Court that ended the constitutional right to abortion. That right was established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade case and affirmed in the 1992 Casey v. Planned Parenthood ruling.

In a dissenting opinion in Dobbs, Associate Justice Clarence Thomas wrote that the justices should reconsider all of this Courts substantive due process precedents that relied on the same right to privacy legal thinking that justices had cited in Roe and Casey.

Thomas specifically mentioned the Griswold v. Connecticut, Obergefell v. Hodges and Lawrence v. Texas cases.

Griswold was the 1965 case where the Supreme Court struck down a Connecticut state law that had prevented married couples from using contraception.

The Supreme Court held that a right to privacy can be inferred from several amendments in the Bill of Rights, and this right prevents states from making the use of contraception by married couples illegal.

Those rights were extended to unmarried people in the 1972 Eisenstadt v. Baird ruling.

Polling from the Kaiser Family Foundation, released in March, shows that 45% of adults said they believe access to contraception is a secure right likely to remain in place.

An additional 21% responded that they believe it is a threatened right likely to be overturned. A total of 34% of respondents said they were not sure.

Maine Morning Star editor Lauren McCauley contributed to this report.

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The post Members of the U.S. Senate face a vote on whether they support contraception access appeared first on Maine Morning Star.
A Purple Heart medal is seen during a Purple Heart ceremony June 9, 2015 at George Washingtons Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia. The U.S. Army held a celebration for its 240th birthday. (Photo by Alex Wong / Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  When a Purple Heart recipient named Pat reached out to U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in November to inform her that he couldnt transfer his GI bill benefits to his children, he wasnt expecting congressional action to solve the problem.

He simply just wanted to let the Washington state Democrat know, he told States Newsroom in an exclusive interview.

With a child about to head to college, Pat, who didnt want his last name used, had recently been told by the Army that he couldnt transfer his education benefits to them because he received the Purple Heart after he was medically discharged. This rule does not apply to those who receive the medal while still in service.

Murray and Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, introduced a bipartisan bill Thursday aimed at closing that loophole.

The legislation, titled the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, would permit retroactive award recipients who served on or after Sept. 11, 2001 to transfer their education benefits to one or more dependents. It was unveiled just ahead of Memorial Day, when the nation honors its deceased service members.

As the daughter of a Purple Heart recipient, Ive seen firsthand the enormous sacrifices Purple Heart veterans make to defend our freedoms, and I feel strongly that we should be doing absolutely everything we can to help all veterans and their families thrive, Murray said in a statement Thursday.

It doesnt make any sense that service members who are awarded a Purple Heart after their service cant transfer their GI benefits to their dependents, while those who receive it during their service canand I am grateful to Pat, my constituent in Washington state who brought this gap in the law to my attention, continued Murray, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Our legislation will close this loophole and allow more children of Purple Heart veterans to further their education. I want to thank Senator Tillis for joining me on this legislation and Ill be working hard to get it passed into law.

Glitch in education benefits

Pat was medically discharged from the U.S. Army and retroactively received a Purple Heart for his actions during Irans retaliatory missile barrage in January 2020 on an Iraq airbase, after a U.S. drone strike killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

The Army later approved 39 Purple Hearts for service members who experienced the attack, according to a December 2021 report by the Army Times.

As his teenager looks to enroll at Central Washington University next year, Pat found out that by law his education benefits would only be available for transfer if he had received the award while still in service.

My thought was, I doubt that legislators would have done that intentionally. I just thought, you know, people probably just didnt think about how that happens  that some people are going to get retroactive Purple Hearts, or for whatever reason in evaluating them, theyre delayed. So its not like an unusual thing, Pat said in a phone interview.

I wasnt thinking much was going to happen, but I just wanted to write Senator Murray, who is my local senator, and let her know the issue. They responded by saying, Thats an oversight on our part, and we want to make good on that.

Pat said hes grateful for Sen. Murray and hopes his action is able to help other Purple Heart veterans. For now, his family is moving forward with the college enrollment process for his child, he said.

Benefits and dependents

Among the provisions in the legislation, Murray and Tillis bill would also allow veterans to split up 36 months worth of benefits to each of their dependents. For example, they could transfer 20 months to one and 16 months to another.

The bill, if enacted, would also prohibit the benefits from being treated as marital property or a marital estate asset.

And, the bill would permit dependents to access unused benefits if their veteran family member has died.

Purple Heart recipients are heroes who honorably served our country at great costs, and this oversight that prevents servicemembers who received this distinguished award after their service from transferring their GI bill benefits to their dependents needs to be corrected immediately, Tillis said in a statement Thursday.

I am proud to co-introduce this commonsense legislation with Senator Murray to close this loophole and ensure every Purple Heart recipient and dependents are able to further their education, continued Tillis, who also sits on the Senates Veterans Affairs Committee.

The number of veterans who retroactively received the Purple Heart after their post-9/11 service is unclear. The bill is estimated to cost $500,000 in mandatory spending over 10 years, according to an informal analysis provided to Murrays office by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The bill has received praise from veterans groups, including the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.

Unfortunately, not every veterans service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States of America is fully recognized while theyre still in uniform, IAVA CEO and Iraq War veteran Allison Jaslow said in a statement Thursday.

The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act ensures that those veterans whove endured bodily harm on behalf of our nation, but werent recognized for it until their service concluded, are able to turn that recognition into an investment in the education of their loved ones.

More Purple Heart recipients

The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have greatly increased the number of Purple Heart recipients as the Department of Defense has added some traumatic brain injuries as a recognized condition for the award, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.

It wasnt until a 2017 law that Purple Heart recipients were able to receive full post-9/11 GI Bill benefits regardless of their length of service. Previously, the recipients had to have 36 months of active service.

The Department of Defense does not maintain a record of the number of recipients, according to the CRS, but by law they do maintain a publicly accessible list with the permission of the veteran or next of kin.

Military historians and the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor estimate about 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded since 1932. The Army Historical Foundation estimated as of 2016 that 30,000 Purple Hearts had been awarded since 2001. The CRS cited this statistic.

The post As Memorial Day arrives, bill unveiled in Congress to assist Purple Heart recipients appeared first on Source New Mexico.
A Purple Heart medal is seen during a Purple Heart ceremony June 9, 2015 at George Washingtons Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  When a Purple Heart recipient named Pat reached out to U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in November to inform her that he couldnt transfer his GI bill benefits to his children, he wasnt expecting congressional action to solve the problem.

He simply just wanted to let the Washington state Democrat know, he told States Newsroom in an exclusive interview.

With a child about to head to college, Pat, who didnt want his last name used, had recently been told by the Army that he couldnt transfer his education benefits to them because he received the Purple Heart after he was medically discharged. This rule does not apply to those who receive the medal while still in service.

Murray and Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at closing that loophole.

The legislation, titled the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, would permit retroactive award recipients who served on or after Sept. 11, 2001 to transfer their education benefits to one or more dependents. It was unveiled just ahead of Memorial Day, when the nation honors its deceased service members.

As the daughter of a Purple Heart recipient, Ive seen firsthand the enormous sacrifices Purple Heart veterans make to defend our freedoms, and I feel strongly that we should be doing absolutely everything we can to help all veterans and their families thrive, Murray said in a statement Thursday.

It doesnt make any sense that service members who are awarded a Purple Heart after their service cant transfer their GI benefits to their dependents, while those who receive it during their service can  and I am grateful to Pat, my constituent in Washington state who brought this gap in the law to my attention, continued Murray, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Our legislation will close this loophole and allow more children of Purple Heart veterans to further their education. I want to thank Senator Tillis for joining me on this legislation and Ill be working hard to get it passed into law.

Glitch in education benefits

Pat was medically discharged from the U.S. Army and retroactively received a Purple Heart for his actions during Irans retaliatory missile barrage in January 2020 on an Iraq airbase, after a U.S. drone strike killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

The Army later approved 39 Purple Hearts for service members who experienced the attack, according to a December 2021 report by the Army Times.

As his teenager looks to enroll at Central Washington University next year, Pat found out that by law his education benefits would only be available for transfer if he had received the award while still in service.

My thought was, I doubt that legislators would have done that intentionally. I just thought, you know, people probably just didnt think about how that happens  that some people are going to get retroactive Purple Hearts, or for whatever reason in evaluating them, theyre delayed. So its not like an unusual thing, Pat said in a phone interview.

I wasnt thinking much was going to happen, but I just wanted to write Senator Murray, who is my local senator, and let her know the issue. They responded by saying, Thats an oversight on our part, and we want to make good on that.

Pat said hes grateful for Sen. Murray and hopes his action is able to help other Purple Heart veterans. For now, his family is moving forward with the college enrollment process for his child, he said.

Benefits and dependents

Among the provisions in the legislation, Murray and Tillis bill would also allow veterans to split up 36 months worth of benefits to each of their dependents. For example, they could transfer 20 months to one and 16 months to another.

The bill, if enacted, would also prohibit the benefits from being treated as marital property or a marital estate asset.

And, the bill would permit dependents to access unused benefits if their veteran family member has died.

Purple Heart recipients are heroes who honorably served our country at great costs, and this oversight that prevents servicemembers who received this distinguished award after their service from transferring their GI bill benefits to their dependents needs to be corrected immediately, Tillis said in a statement Thursday.

I am proud to co-introduce this commonsense legislation with Senator Murray to close this loophole and ensure every Purple Heart recipient and dependents are able to further their education, continued Tillis, who also sits on the Senates Veterans Affairs Committee.

The number of veterans who retroactively received the Purple Heart after their post-9/11 service is unclear. The bill is estimated to cost $500,000 in mandatory spending over 10 years, according to an informal analysis provided to Murrays office by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The bill has received praise from veterans groups, including the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.

Unfortunately, not every veterans service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States of America is fully recognized while theyre still in uniform, IAVA CEO and Iraq War veteran Allison Jaslow said in a statement Thursday.

The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act ensures that those veterans whove endured bodily harm on behalf of our nation, but werent recognized for it until their service concluded, are able to turn that recognition into an investment in the education of their loved ones.

More Purple Heart recipients

The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have greatly increased the number of Purple Heart recipients as the Department of Defense has added some traumatic brain injuries as a recognized condition for the award, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.

It wasnt until a 2017 law that Purple Heart recipients were able to receive full post-9/11 GI Bill benefits regardless of their length of service. Previously, the recipients had to have 36 months of active service.

The Department of Defense does not maintain a record of the number of recipients, according to the CRS, but by law they do maintain a publicly accessible list with the permission of the veteran or next of kin.

Military historians and the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor estimate about 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded since 1932. The Army Historical Foundation estimated as of 2016 that 30,000 Purple Hearts had been awarded since 2001. The CRS cited this statistic.

The post As Memorial Day arrives, bill unveiled in Congress to assist Purple Heart recipients appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
A Purple Heart medal is seen during a Purple Heart ceremony June 9, 2015 at George Washingtons Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia. The U.S. Army held a celebration for its 240th birthday. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  When a Purple Heart recipient named Pat reached out to U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in November to inform her that he couldnt transfer his GI bill benefits to his children, he wasnt expecting congressional action to solve the problem.

He simply just wanted to let the Washington state Democrat know, he told States Newsroom in an exclusive interview.

With a child about to head to college, Pat, who didnt want his last name used, had recently been told by the Army that he couldnt transfer his education benefits to them because he received the Purple Heart after he was medically discharged. This rule does not apply to those who receive the medal while still in service.

Murray and Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, introduced a bipartisan bill Thursday aimed at closing that loophole.

The legislation, titled the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, would permit retroactive award recipients who served on or after Sept. 11, 2001 to transfer their education benefits to one or more dependents. It was unveiled just ahead of Memorial Day, when the nation honors its deceased service members.

As the daughter of a Purple Heart recipient, Ive seen firsthand the enormous sacrifices Purple Heart veterans make to defend our freedoms, and I feel strongly that we should be doing absolutely everything we can to help all veterans and their families thrive, Murray said in a statement Thursday.

It doesnt make any sense that service members who are awarded a Purple Heart after their service cant transfer their GI benefits to their dependents, while those who receive it during their service canand I am grateful to Pat, my constituent in Washington state who brought this gap in the law to my attention, continued Murray, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Our legislation will close this loophole and allow more children of Purple Heart veterans to further their education. I want to thank Senator Tillis for joining me on this legislation and Ill be working hard to get it passed into law.

Glitch in education benefits

Pat was medically discharged from the U.S. Army and retroactively received a Purple Heart for his actions during Irans retaliatory missile barrage in January 2020 on an Iraq airbase, after a U.S. drone strike killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

The Army later approved 39 Purple Hearts for service members who experienced the attack, according to a December 2021 report by the Army Times.

As his teenager looks to enroll at Central Washington University next year, Pat found out that by law his education benefits would only be available for transfer if he had received the award while still in service.

My thought was, I doubt that legislators would have done that intentionally. I just thought, you know, people probably just didnt think about how that happens  that some people are going to get retroactive Purple Hearts, or for whatever reason in evaluating them, theyre delayed. So its not like an unusual thing, Pat said in a phone interview.

I wasnt thinking much was going to happen, but I just wanted to write Senator Murray, who is my local senator, and let her know the issue. They responded by saying, Thats an oversight on our part, and we want to make good on that.

Pat said hes grateful for Sen. Murray and hopes his action is able to help other Purple Heart veterans. For now, his family is moving forward with the college enrollment process for his child, he said.

Benefits and dependents

Among the provisions in the legislation, Murray and Tillis bill would also allow veterans to split up 36 months worth of benefits to each of their dependents. For example, they could transfer 20 months to one and 16 months to another.

The bill, if enacted, would also prohibit the benefits from being treated as marital property or a marital estate asset.

And, the bill would permit dependents to access unused benefits if their veteran family member has died.

Purple Heart recipients are heroes who honorably served our country at great costs, and this oversight that prevents servicemembers who received this distinguished award after their service from transferring their GI bill benefits to their dependents needs to be corrected immediately, Tillis said in a statement Thursday.

I am proud to co-introduce this commonsense legislation with Senator Murray to close this loophole and ensure every Purple Heart recipient and dependents are able to further their education, continued Tillis, who also sits on the Senates Veterans Affairs Committee.

The number of veterans who retroactively received the Purple Heart after their post-9/11 service is unclear. The bill is estimated to cost $500,000 in mandatory spending over 10 years, according to an informal analysis provided to Murrays office by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The bill has received praise from veterans groups, including the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.

Unfortunately, not every veterans service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States of America is fully recognized while theyre still in uniform, IAVA CEO and Iraq War veteran Allison Jaslow said in a statement Thursday.

The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act ensures that those veterans whove endured bodily harm on behalf of our nation, but werent recognized for it until their service concluded, are able to turn that recognition into an investment in the education of their loved ones.

More Purple Heart recipients

The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have greatly increased the number of Purple Heart recipients as the Department of Defense has added some traumatic brain injuries as a recognized condition for the award, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.

It wasnt until a 2017 law that Purple Heart recipients were able to receive full post-9/11 GI Bill benefits regardless of their length of service. Previously, the recipients had to have 36 months of active service.

The Department of Defense does not maintain a record of the number of recipients, according to the CRS, but by law they do maintain a publicly accessible list with the permission of the veteran or next of kin.

Military historians and the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor estimate about 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded since 1932. The Army Historical Foundation estimated as of 2016 that 30,000 Purple Hearts had been awarded since 2001. The CRS cited this statistic.

The post As Memorial Day arrives, bill unveiled in Congress to assist Purple Heart recipients appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
BRASILIA, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Thursday hailed the decision of Spain, Ireland and Norway to recognize Palestinian statehood, a measure he said will have "a positive impact on peace and stability in the region."

"The joint decision of Spain, Norway and Ireland to recognize Palestine as a State is historic," Lula da Silva posted on social media.

The decision, he said, is historic for two reasons: first, "it does justice in relation to the claim of an entire country, recognized by more than 140 countries, to its right to self-determination," and second, "it will have a positive impact in support of the efforts towards peace and stability in the region."

Peace and stability "will only occur when the existence of an independent Palestinian state is guaranteed," he added.

Lula da Silva noted that Brazil was one of the first countries in Latin America to back Palestinian independence, when it recognized the state of Palestine in 2010.

Norway, Ireland and Spain announced on Wednesday that they would officially recognize Palestine as a state. 
A Purple Heart medal is seen during a Purple Heart ceremony June 9, 2015, at George Washingtons Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia. The U.S. Army held a celebration for its 240th birthday. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  When a Purple Heart recipient named Pat reached out to U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in November to inform her that he couldnt transfer his GI bill benefits to his children, he wasnt expecting congressional action to solve the problem.

He simply just wanted to let the Washington state Democrat know, he told States Newsroom in an exclusive interview.

With a child about to head to college, Pat, who didnt want his last name used, had recently been told by the Army that he couldnt transfer his education benefits to them because he received the Purple Heart after he was medically discharged. This rule does not apply to those who receive the medal while still in service.

Murray and Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, introduced a bipartisan bill Thursday aimed at closing that loophole.

The legislation, titled the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, would permit retroactive award recipients who served on or after Sept. 11, 2001, to transfer their education benefits to one or more dependents. It was unveiled just ahead of Memorial Day, when the nation honors its deceased service members.

As the daughter of a Purple Heart recipient, Ive seen firsthand the enormous sacrifices Purple Heart veterans make to defend our freedoms, and I feel strongly that we should be doing absolutely everything we can to help all veterans and their families thrive, Murray said in a statement Thursday.

It doesnt make any sense that service members who are awarded a Purple Heart after their service cant transfer their GI benefits to their dependents, while those who receive it during their service canand I am grateful to Pat, my constituent in Washington state who brought this gap in the law to my attention, continued Murray, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Our legislation will close this loophole and allow more children of Purple Heart veterans to further their education, Murray said. I want to thank Senator Tillis for joining me on this legislation and Ill be working hard to get it passed into law.

Glitch in education benefits

Pat was medically discharged from the U.S. Army and retroactively received a Purple Heart for his actions during Irans retaliatory missile barrage in January 2020 on an Iraq airbase, after a U.S. drone strike killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

The Army later approved 39 Purple Hearts for service members who experienced the attack, according to a December 2021 report by the Army Times.

As his teenager looks to enroll at Central Washington University next year, Pat found out that by law his education benefits would only be available for transfer if he had received the award while still in service.

My thought was, I doubt that legislators would have done that intentionally. I just thought, you know, people probably just didnt think about how that happens  that some people are going to get retroactive Purple Hearts, or for whatever reason in evaluating them, theyre delayed. So its not like an unusual thing, Pat said in a phone interview.

I wasnt thinking much was going to happen, but I just wanted to write Senator Murray, who is my local senator, and let her know the issue. They responded by saying, Thats an oversight on our part, and we want to make good on that.

Pat said hes grateful for Sen. Murray and hopes his action is able to help other Purple Heart veterans. For now, his family is moving forward with the college enrollment process for his child, he said.

Benefits and dependents

Among the provisions in the legislation, Murray and Tillis bill would also allow veterans to split up 36 months worth of benefits to each of their dependents. For example, they could transfer 20 months to one and 16 months to another.

The bill, if enacted, would also prohibit the benefits from being treated as marital property or a marital estate asset.

And, the bill would permit dependents to access unused benefits if their veteran family member has died.

Purple Heart recipients are heroes who honorably served our country at great costs, and this oversight that prevents servicemembers who received this distinguished award after their service from transferring their GI bill benefits to their dependents needs to be corrected immediately, Tillis said in a statement Thursday.

I am proud to co-introduce this commonsense legislation with Senator Murray to close this loophole and ensure every Purple Heart recipient and dependents are able to further their education, continued Tillis, who also sits on the Senates Veterans Affairs Committee.

The number of veterans who retroactively received the Purple Heart after their post-9/11 service is unclear. The bill is estimated to cost $500,000 in mandatory spending over 10 years, according to an informal analysis provided to Murrays office by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The bill has received praise from veterans groups, including the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.

Unfortunately, not every veterans service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States of America is fully recognized while theyre still in uniform, IAVA CEO and Iraq War veteran Allison Jaslow said in a statement Thursday.

The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act ensures that those veterans whove endured bodily harm on behalf of our nation, but werent recognized for it until their service concluded, are able to turn that recognition into an investment in the education of their loved ones.

More Purple Heart recipients

The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have greatly increased the number of Purple Heart recipients as the Department of Defense has added some traumatic brain injuries as a recognized condition for the award, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.

It wasnt until a 2017 law that Purple Heart recipients were able to receive full post-9/11 GI Bill benefits regardless of their length of service. Previously, the recipients had to have 36 months of active service.

The Department of Defense does not maintain a record of the number of recipients, according to the CRS, but by law they do maintain a publicly accessible list with the permission of the veteran or next of kin.

Military historians and the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor estimate about 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded since 1932. The Army Historical Foundation estimated as of 2016 that 30,000 Purple Hearts had been awarded since 2001. The CRS cited this statistic.

The post As Memorial Day arrives, bill unveiled in Congress to assist Purple Heart recipients appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Observances including parades are scheduled in several south and southwest suburbs, as communities honor those who gave their lives in service to their country.

In Orland Park, the villages ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at the villages memorial outside of Village Hall, 14700 S. Ravinia Ave.

The observance, which will be streamed live on the villages YouTube channel, includes reading the names of veterans being added to the memorial. Those being added this year are John M. Brucki, Army, 1965 to 1967; Daniel Raymond Chiarito, Army 1966-1968; David James Fitzpatrick, Air Force 1958 to 1961; James George Keating, Air Force 1979 to 1980; James Robert Keating, Marines 2005 to 2009; Jerome Leonard Kwilinski, Army 1953-1955; Walter Joseph Murphy Army 1941-1944 and Thomas E. Trusk, Army 1966-1968.

Tinley Parks observance will take place at 10 a.m. Monday at the Gen. Patrick E. Rea Veterans Plaza, just south of the 80th Avenue train station at 18001 S. 80th Ave.

The event will include patriotic music by the Tinley Park Community Band, short speeches, a wreath-laying ceremony and a gun salute.

Hosted by the Tinley Park Veterans Commission, the event will be livestreamed on the villages Facebook page.

Other communities are also holding observances.

Alsip: A ceremony will be at noon Monday at Alsip VFW Post 450, 11800 S. Cicero Ave.

Blue Island: The citys observance, organized by American Legion Post 50, will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Memorial Park, 12750 Highland Ave. Blue Island Mayor Fred Bilotto will deliver remarks and refreshments will be served.

Calumet City: A military appreciation lunch will be held at noon Wednesday at the citys Fire and Police Training Center, State Street and State Line Road, and all veterans are welcome to attend.

Chicago Heights: A parade will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at East Glengate Road and South Coolidge Street, then follow a route east on Glengate to Chicago Road and south on Chicago Road to Joe Orr Road, then west to Dixie Highway then south on Dixie and ending at Dixie and 10th Street.

Crete: A Memorial Day service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Crete Park, 515 First St., followed by a parade that will begin at noon at the park continue along Main Street to Burville Road.

Flossmoor: The villages participation in Taps Across America takes place at 3 p.m. Monday at the traffic circle in the villages downtown.

There will be a moment of silence and there will be performances by the Homewood-Flossmoor High School band and Bel Canto Community Choir.

Frankfort: The Frankfort VFW Post 1493 is organizing the villages annual Memorial Day ceremony at 10 a.m. Monday at Breidert Green at Kansas and White streets in downtown Frankfort. The Hickory Creek Middle School band and orchestra will perform.

Lansing: The Lansing Veterans Memorial Ceremonial Honor Guard will host a ceremony at 2 p.m. Sunday at the veterans memorial at Lansing Municipal Airport, southeast corner of Burnham Avenue and Glenwood-Lansing Road.

Matteson: A parade will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at Main and 215th streets, ending at Memorial Park, 212th Place and Turner Avenue. There will be a Memorial Day ceremony at the park followed by a battle of the bands.

Mokena: The William Martin VFW Post 725 will hold a Memorial Day observance at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 29, at Pioneer Cemetery, Wolf Road and Denny Street.

In the event of inclement weather, the event will take place at the VFW Post, 19825 Wolf Road, and free hot dogs will be served after the event.

Oak Forest: The city will observe Memorial Day at 11 a.m. Monday at the Veterans Memorial, 15440 S. Central Ave., outside City Hall.

Oak Lawn: Johnson-Phelps VFW Post 5220 will hold an observance at 11 a.m. Monday at the Oak Lawn Veterans Memorial, 9427 S. Raymond Ave.

Palos Heights: The Palos Heights VFW Post 2604 will hold an observance at 11 a.m. Monday at City Hall, 7607 W. College Drive.

Park Forest: American Legion Post 1198 will hold a remembrance ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday at the Village Green, 349 Main St. Following the ceremony, an open house will be held for the Park Forest Veterans Closet and Resource Center.

South Chicago Heights: A ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the South Chicago Heights Veterans Memorial Mound, Enterprise Park Avenue and Sauk Trail.

South Holland: A parade will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at South Park Avenue and 170th Street and continue to Veterans Memorial Park, at South Park and 160th Place. There was ceremony will feature performances by the South Holland Master Chorale, South Holland Municipal Band and the Chicago Christian High School band.

University Park: A ceremony will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the villages Veterans Wall, 90 Town Center, with music and refreshments available.

St. Xavier University: The university is partnering with the McCarthy Brigade for a special flag-raising ceremony. Former and current Saint Xavier student veterans will help to carry and raise the flag to honor those who sacrificed their lives while serving in the military.

The event will be held at the entrance to the Warde Academic Center on Saint Xavier Universitys campus, at 3700 W. 103rd Street in Chicago, at 3 p.m. on Monday.

The McCarthy Brigade is a local group named after a World War II hero from Chicagos Beverly community.
Memorial Day this year is on Monday, May 27, and will be celebrated with plenty of events and ceremonies throughout Dallas County.

Memorial Day honors all soldiers who died during service to the nation. Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday in 1971, to occur on the last Monday of May each year, but its roots date back to the Civil War era. The observance was originally called Decoration Day, when individuals placed flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers.

Here's what Dallas County communities have planned for Memorial Day this year:

Adel: Oakdale Cemetery

The Adel American Legion Penoach Post 464 and Auxiliary Unit 464 would like to extend an invitation to everyone to attend the Memorial Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. on Monday at Oakdale Cemetery. This day is our opportunity to give thanks to the heroes that died and the loved ones left behind to make sure that their sacrifices are remembered and that their service to this nation will always be honored. Please bring a lawn chair, since no seating is available. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will not be held.

Dallas Center: Mound Park

The Dallas Center American Legion and Auxiliary will host the Memorial Day service at 10 a.m. on Monday at Mound Park. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the event. In case of inclement weather, it will be at the middle school gymnasium. Please plan to attend.

Fairview United Methodist Church

The annual Memorial Day program will be held at 9 a.m. on Monday at Fairview United Methodist Church, 2162 Deer Ave., Perry. The program will honor veterans with music, readings and a short message. Perry Boy Scout Troop 127 will present the flag. The program will conclude with a gun salute in the cemetery by the Rippey American Legion.

Iowa Veterans Cemetery

The Iowa Veterans Cemetery is hosting its annual Memorial Day ceremony which honors and remembers those who have served in the US military. The free ceremony is 8-9 a.m. Monday and will also be livestreamed on the cemeterys Facebook page. Gov. Kim Reynolds plans to attend the event, according to a news release.

Minburn: Brown, Kimrey, Elmwood Cemetery, Raccoon River Bridge

On Monday, the Minburn American Legion will be honoring fallen veterans at four locations: 9:30 a.m. at Brown Cemetery; 10 a.m. Kimrey Cemetery; 10:30 a.m. Elmwood Cemetery followed by the Raccoon River Bridge Ceremony.

Directly following the ceremonies, Minburn Legion Auxiliary will be serving a hot dog/chili dog lunch at the Skating Rink Food Stand until 1 p.m. Free-will donations will be accepted with proceeds to help fund the Minburn Fourth of July celebration.

Perry: Veterans Memorial Park

The Perry VFW Post 2060 will host a Memorial Day service at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 27 at Veterans Memorial Park, 8th and Bateman. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.

Waukee: Waukee Cemetery

The Waukee Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Posts invite the community to attend their annual Memorial Day Ceremony and wreath laying at the Waukee Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day.

Folks will gather by the veterans' monument and flag at Waukee Cemetery, near the water tower. Bring a lawn chair so your family and friends can comfortably join the hour of reflection.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: What's happening in Dallas County for Memorial Day in 2024?
It's been a very active week for severe storms and tornadoes -- and more rough weather is in the forecast for Memorial Day weekend.

On Thursday, there were more than two dozen reported tornadoes across Illinois, Iowa, North Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas.

PHOTO: Pictures of the Week Global Photo Gallery (Charlie Neibergall/AP)

Thursday also brought damaging winds that knocked down trees and power lines across Maine, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia.

On Friday, as people hit the road and head to the airport for Memorial Day weekend, more severe weather is in the forecast from Austin, Texas, to Chicago.

Tornadoes, damaging winds and hail are possible in Dallas, Little Rock, Arkansas; Memphis, Tennessee; St. Louis, Missouri; Indianapolis and Chicago.

MORE: Memorial Day weekend travel: The busiest days to fly and drive

PHOTO: Severe weather threat for Friday. (ABC News)

On Saturday, Kansas and Oklahoma could see strong tornadoes, severe wind gusts and large hail.

On Sunday, cities in the bull's-eye for tornadoes will be St. Louis; Louisville, Kentucky; and Indianapolis.

PHOTO: Severe weather threat for Saturday and Sunday. (ABC News)

On Memorial Day, the Northeast will face heavy rain and thunderstorms. Flash flooding is possible along the Interstate 95 corridor, especially around Philadelphia and just west of New York City.

Record highs are also in the forecast this weekend for Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida.

MORE: Heat stroke vs. heat exhaustion: Extreme heat safety tips

Monday could be the hottest Memorial Day on record for San Antonio, Houston, New Orleans and Miami.

The heat index -- what the temperature feels like with humidity -- could top 100 degrees.

PHOTO: Holiday record heat. (ABC News)

Memorial Day weekend weather: Tornadoes and record-high temperatures originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Boardwalk improvements are underway in 18 towns stretching from Cape May to Long Branch, state officials said Friday. (Danielle Heminghaus for New Jersey Monitor)

Asbury Parks boardwalk will see major upgrades this year as part of the states efforts to renovate over a dozen Jersey Shore boardwalks that were ruined by storms over a decade ago.

Gov. Phil Murphy was joined Friday by state and local officials to tout the states boardwalk preservation fund, fueled by federal COVID dollars. Murphy said he expects this to be one of the most successful summers ever for New Jersey as hundreds of thousands flock to the shore.

Were going to rebuild crumbling boardwalk infrastructure, remove blight along the shoreline, and invest in making our boardwalks more accessible, creating new opportunities for every member of the family to make memories, whether its in Asbury Park or beyond, for generations to come, he said.

Boardwalk improvements are underway in 18 towns stretching from Cape May to Long Branch, state officials said Friday. In Asbury Park, about 80% of the boardwalk has already been replaced and reinforced. The $20 million awarded to the shore town will also support two new bathrooms on the boardwalk and the restoration of buildings behind Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre, Murphy said.

The $100 million in American Rescue Plan money dedicated to the boardwalk preservation fund was announced last year.

More than 30 communities applied for the funding last year with requests totaling more than $360 million, Murphys office said.

Projects the state will fund in the shore towns include replacing old and crumbling boardwalks with longer-lasting and reinforcing materials, ensuring boardwalks are ADA-compliant by building ramps and railings, and expanding existing boardwalks.

State officials prioritized shore towns facing financial distress and projects that improve existing structures, Murphys office said. Under federal law, the American Rescue Plan funding must be awarded by the end of 2024 and must be expended by grant recipients by the end of 2026.

We need these boardwalks to stand the test of time. We need to support all of our businesses on our boardwalks, and this will go a long way to preserving the Jersey Shore, said Sen. Michael Testa (R-Cape May).

Towns receiving funding for boardwalk repairs and renovations:

Asbury Park: $20,000,000

Atlantic City: $20,000,000

Belmar Borough: $1,504,184

Berkeley Township: $448,125

Bradley Beach: $4,275,00

Brigantine: $1,185,838

Cape May City: $6,722,55

Carteret: $2,417,339

Keyport: $800,694

Long Branch: $3,249,000

North Wildwood: $10,259,827

Ocean City: $4,859,175

Sea Isle City: $1,997,000

Seaside Heights: $4,795,362

Toms River: $1,018,441

Ventnor: $7,110,689

Wildwood City: $8,269,013

Wildwood Crest Borough: $1,087,425

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Taffany Wilson says her son, Kenderrick Rice, was simply a bystander when he was killed in April 2021.

He didnt get to live his life. He was just getting started. He was 27, said Wilson. Ill never forget him. He was my firstborn. He was the one who made me a mom.

Now, Wilson goes to the McFarland Community Center in Parkway Village once a month for the Greater Memphis Parents of Murdered Children Chapter. They call it the club no one wants to be a part of.

We have like fraternities and sororities that we break our backs and everything else to be a part of, but to be part of a group of grievers that have lost someone in a homicide, I dont think anybody in their right mind would ever want to be part of this club, said Tim Williams, the leader of the Memphis chapter.

This is the only chapter in Tennessee, out of dozens nationwide. They offer help to any adult dealing with tragedy.

The mother of two of Williams children was murdered on July 16, 1989.

For me, it takes my mind off of my pain, because again, this is just something that just never goes away, said Williams.

The group offers a safe space.

We really need somebody to hear us, said Wilson. A lot of sad faces come through those doors. But by the time we leave out, its smiles.

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Aftermath where a structure collapses at a campaign event for the Citizens' Movement party, in San Pedro Garza Garcia

(Reuters) - The northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon will compensate the victims of a stage collapse that killed nine people and injured scores at an election campaign event on Wednesday, the governor said.

Samuel Garcia said on social media that 144 patients had been discharged and 36 remain hospitalized. The state government plans to compensate the relatives of the deceased, eight adults and one child, with 400,000 pesos ($23,900).

Hospitalized victims would receive 100,000 pesos each "until their recovery or discharge", Garcia said. He did not elaborate.

Jorge Alvarez Maynez, the presidential candidate for the centrist Citizens' Movement party, said on X that all the injured were stable.

Maynez had attributed the stage collapse at the event in the city of San Pedro Garza Garcia, a wealthy enclave near the industrial hub of Monterrey, to high winds.

Video of the accident showed the structure suddenly falling forward into the crowd, sending politicians on the stage and panicked attendees running for cover.

In the presidential election slated for June 2, Maynez is polling in third place, trailing far behind ruling party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum and second-place contender Xochitl Galvez, who represents a broad opposition coalition.

(Reporting by Natalia Siniawski; Editing by Nick Macfie)
The suspect is accused of using "an ignitable liquid" to start a fire at a preschool with 48 students and 14 staff members inside

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A New Mexico man has been charged for allegedly trying to burn down a California preschool with children and staff inside. Later that day, he allegedly attempted to set fire to a strip mall a mile away.

Jonathan A. Barajas Nava, 38, was charged with two counts of attempted destruction of property by means of fire, the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Central District of California said in a release on Wednesday, May 22.

An affidavit filed with a criminal complaint alleges that Nava poured "an ignitable liquid" at the entrance of Retreat Church and Yucaipa Christian Preschool in Yucaipa, Calif., on April 24. At the time, 48 preschool students and 14 staff members were inside of the building, however, no one was injured.

Shortly after, Nava is said to have headed to a local strip mall and allegedly poured "an ignitable liquid on the buildings gas meters" before allegedly "lighting the gas meters on fire."

Related: Colo. Man Pleads Guilty to Murdering Family of 5 in House Fire After Wrongfully Believing They Stole His Phone

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According to The Los Angeles Times, authorities said multiple people called police around 1 p.m. local time after seeing a man carrying a gas can approach the school entrance before allegedly lighting it on fire. Court documents state that one neighbor who saw the alleged incident intervened by running toward the school and stomped out the fire until firefighters got to the scene. They also removed a gas can and doormat that had caught on fire.

Neighbors believed the suspect was wearing a hoodie and drove a pickup truck that had a loud muffler.

About four hours later, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office received calls about another fire, this time at a strip mall a mile away from the preschool. An optometry center's wall, which was close to a set of gas meters, was on fire. Responding officers smelled gasoline and saw burn marks near the wall and sidewalk. A black gas can near the gas meters was recovered by authorities.

Authorities confirmed the preschool and strip mall fire were both set with a gasoline-type liquid along with a lighter.

Related: Boy, 16, Charged with Third-Degree Arson After Firework Sets Off 28-Acre Fire: Police

Police received another call around 6 p.m. local time, about a pickup truck driver who was trapped on a chain-linked fence, trying to accelerate the engine. The driver jumped out of the truck and hopped the fence. However, they got back in the truck when an officer got to the scene.

Although the officer instructed the driver to get out of the vehicle, it seemed as if he didn't hear. When the officer walked toward the truck, it caught on fire and the driver screamed. The officer then opened the door and the driver fell out of the truck onto the ground, one of his legs engulfed in flames. He was later identified as Nava, and handcuffed. Nava was treated for his injuries and authorities discovered he was on probation after pleading guilty to setting an Albuquerque church on fire in July 2022.

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He could face between five and 40 years in federal prison if he's convicted for the California fires, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

His arraignment is scheduled for May 28.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department are investigating the case.

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From May 14 to 21, a relevant provincial leader led a friendly economic and trade delegation to visit the United States and Mexico, deepening practical cooperation between Anhui Province and the two countries in the fields of economy, trade, culture, and education, achieving positive results.

In the United States, the delegation held meetings with Maryland State, Baltimore City, and the University of Maryland, discussing the deepening of sister city relationships and enhancing cooperation in areas such as economy and trade, ports, education, and youth. They witnessed the signing of related cooperation agreements and invited relevant local authorities, departments, and enterprises to participate in the 2024 World Manufacturing Convention to be held in Hefei. The delegation visited the headquarters of Corning Incorporated and held talks with company executives, reaching a consensus on expanding project investment, increasing R&D investment, and promoting deeper cooperation with Anhui enterprises. They also met with friendly individuals in the U.S., visited Anhui-native business associations and representatives of Anhui merchants, and established a regular contact and coordination mechanism.

In Mexico, the delegation conducted site visits to Alianza Industrial Park, Chery Mexico Company, and Bethel Mexico Factory to understand the development of Anhui enterprises' overseas businesses. They also extended greetings to frontline employees, and conducted safety inspections of overseas projects.

During the visit, the delegation also held working meetings with the Chinese embassies in the United States and Mexico, as well as the Chinese Consulate General in New York.





Source: Anhui Daily
JERUSALEM, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz announced on Friday his country has decided to "sever the connection between Spain's representation in Israel and the Palestinians," and prohibit the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem from providing services to Palestinians from the West Bank.

Katz made the announcement on social media platform X in Hebrew, English, and Spanish, saying that this is in response to Spain's recognition of a Palestinian state and remarks of Spain's Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz to "liberate Palestine from the river to the sea."

Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced on Wednesday their official recognition of Palestine as a state. The decision came amid international outrage over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following Israel's military operation.

Spain's recognition will take effect on May 28, following a Council of Ministers session. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stressed that Spain recognizes Palestine "for peace, for justice, and for consistency," urging both parties to engage in dialogue to achieve a two-state solution.

As is shown on the website, located in East Jerusalem, the Consulate General of Spain visa application center accepted applications from Jerusalem, West Bank, the Gaza Strip and the nearby areas. 
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KRQE)  U.S. Marshals have arrested a homicide suspect in Mexico. The man, 45-year-old Oswaldo Corral, was wanted in connection to a 2008 homicide in Mesilla Park, New Mexico, Dona Ana County officials say.

The Dona Ana County Sheriffs Office has been on the lookout for Corral for over a decade in connection to several additional crimes, including armed robbery, aggravated burglary, and alleged involvement in a 2008 shooting at the Las Cruces Sun Lanes Bowling Alleys parking lot, officials say. Now, the sheriffs office has Corral in custody.

Man accused of setting fire to preschool in California connected to crimes in New Mexico

The U.S. Marshals Service says Corral had been using a fake identity for years. Investigators had clues that Corral was in Mexico. Then, with help from Policia Ministerial de la Fiscalia Especializada en Operaciones Estrategicas and Instituto Nacional de Migracion, the Marshals Service captured Corral on May 22. He is now awaiting court in Dona Ana County.

The United States Marshal Service in the District of New Mexico is dedicated to the safety of our

communities. The arrest of Oswaldo Corral is an example of the unwavering dedication demonstrated by local, and federal law enforcement officers sworn to protect the citizens of our communities and the great State of New Mexico. Acting U.S. Marshal Russell Lashley said in a press release.

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Mice experienced high levels of bird flu after being given raw milk, according to a study published Friday amid warnings from public health officials to refrain from drinking the unpasteurized dairy product.

Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory gave droplets of raw milk from cows that were infected to five mice. On the first day they showed signs of sickness, according to the study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

The researchers found high levels of the virus in the trachea, nasal passages and lungs of the mice, the study said. Lower amounts were found in other organs. They also found that the level of bird flu dipped when the milk was stored at a lower refrigerator temperature, but the authors warned the study settings were not identical to large-scale industrial pasteurization of raw milk.

This week, a farmworker in Michigan became the second person confirmed to be infected by bird flu in the U.S. Both people had mild symptoms and have since recovered.

Bird flu was first noticed in cows two months ago, and it has been detected in 51 herds and in nine states since.

But scientists and public health officials say the U.S. is not conducting enough testing to capture the full spectrum of the spread.

Bird flu has caused deadly infections around the world. The virus has circulated in at least 23 countries since 2003, causing around 900 cases in humans, usually among people who get close to birds that are infected.

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Sprawling Lake St. Clair is a hotspot for spring panfishing in southeast Michigan. So, Dr. Scott Smith and his friend and guide Jeremy Ullmann headed there to catch fish for the cooler on April 25. They left a public boat ramp at about 8 a.m. and ran into the lake along the St. Clair River. We were out just fishing for groceries, Smith tells Outdoor Life. We wanted good-eating panfish to fry. So, we targeted yellow perch and anything else that hit. Ullmann and Smith, a 70-year-old dentist from Adrian, Michigan, fished several spots through the day using ultralight spinning tackle and live minnows. They blistered the fish. We caught dozens of jumbo yellow perch, a lot up to 13 inches, plus some walleyes, white bass, smallmouth bass and catfish, says Smith, a long-time local fisherman with wide-ranging fishing experience  including 53 world records (a mix of all-tackle and line-class records). We released the smallmouths and catfish, and later I filleted 93 fish. It was a haul. Theyd caught so many fish that by 3 p.m. they were about ready to head in. Thats when Smith hooked something so big and strong, he thought it was a smallmouth. I knew it was a good one, and when I pulled it up and swung it aboard the boat, I thought it was maybe a white bass, which wed already caught that day, he explains. But Ive fished there for decades, and knew it wasnt the right colors of a white bass. It was much more silver, and I figured it had to be a giant white perch.  So we tossed it in the live well, and quit fishing for the day. Smith with plenty of work to do at the cleaning table. Photo courtesy of Scott Smith The fish died in the live well, however, so the anglers put it on ice. They went fishing for walleyes the next day, but Smith couldnt stop thinking about how large the white fish was  even as he was still uncertain about a positive species identification. I had a fishery biologist friend look at it a couple days later and he said it was a white bass, Smith reported. But I just knew it was a white perch. So I got a second opinion a few days later [and took] it to a Michigan DNR office. There the fish was positively identified as a whopper white perch by Cleyo Harris, a DNR fisheries biologist. The fish was later inspected by a group of state biologists and they all said it was a white perch, Smith explained. They weighed the fish, and certified it as a new state record for the species. Read Next: How to Catch Smallmouth Bass Smiths record white perch weighed 2.592 pounds and was 16.25 inches long. It tops the previous Michigan white perch record caught in 2015 by Cindy Cordo from Muskegon Countys Bear Lake. The IGFA all-tackle white perch record is 3.5 pounds, from Wachusett Reservoir, Massachusetts, taken by Val Percuoco in Oct. 2016. Smith left the fish at the DNR office in the event biologists wanted to do any DNA testing, though that hasnt proved necessary He has no plans to replica mount his whopper white perch, because its just one of many records hes caught over a lifetime of angling. I have so many other fish mounts in my house I have no place to put another one like a white perch. A correction was made on May 24, 2024: A previous version of this article misstated the anglers name and the length of the perch.

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A flag associated with far-right Christian nationalist movements and the January 6 Capitol insurrection has been displayed outside the office of Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana.



The Appeal to Heaven flag, a white banner featuring a green pine tree and the words An Appeal to Heaven, was seen hanging outside Johnsons personal office in the Cannon House Office Building on Thursday. This flag has historical roots dating back to the Revolutionary War but has recently been co-opted by Christian nationalist groups advocating for a theocratic vision of America.

On Thursday afternoon, MeidasTouch, a progressive media outlet, brought widespread attention to the flag by posting a photo on social media. The post highlighted that U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, who recently came under fire for blaming his wife for flying an upside-down American flag indicating distress purportedly over a dispute over yard signs with a neighbor, flew the same flag at his New Jersey vacation home and by many participants in the January 6 insurrection.

The post read, Speaker Mike Johnson has An Appeal to Heaven flag  the same one flown by Justice Alito and many January 6 insurrectionists  outside his office. The flag is a Christian Nationalist symbol that signals a desire to reshape the U.S. into a Christian Nationalist nation.

threads @meidastouch

Johnson defended the flags presence, explaining its historical significance. Its George Washingtons flag. It goes back to the founders era. Ive always flown that flag, Johnson told reporters on Wednesday. It has nothing to do with the stop the steal protests.



The display of the flag comes amid a backdrop of ongoing debates and legal battles related to the January 6 attack on the Capitol and former President Donald Trumps attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Critics argue that the flags presence outside the office of a high-ranking government official is deeply problematic and signals a tacit endorsement of the ideologies it has come to represent.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois, commented on the flags symbolism, telling CNN that it raises a serious question about the messages being conveyed by those in positions of power.

When it gets right down to it, our courts and justices dont have an army to enforce their opinions. They dont have the money to establish an account for media control. What they have is the respect for the integrity of the American people, Durbin said.

The flag has also been associated with other high-profile figures. Leonard Leo, a prominent conservative legal activist and advisor to President Trump, was reportedly flown the same flag outside his Maine residence. Leos spokesman said he flies the flag because of its historical significance and as a symbol of civic duty and philanthropy toward ones country, Rolling Stone reports .

The debate over the flags presence highlights the broader cultural and political divides within the United States, especially regarding the role of religion in government and the legacy of the January 6 insurrection. As the Supreme Court prepares to rule on significant cases related to the events of January 6, the symbolism of such flags and their implications remain contentious.

Johnsons office has not indicated whether the flag will remain on display.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said Thursday Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will soon address a joint session of Congress amid the countrys ongoing war with Hamas.

Tonight, Im happy to announce something else to you: We will soon be hosting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Capitol for a joint session of Congress, Johnson said during an event put on by the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. This will be a timely and I think a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need.

Its unclear when exactly Netanyahu could address lawmakers, although Johnson has been tussling with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) over the invitation. Johnson gave Schumer an ultimatum to sign onto the invite earlier this week, saying if his colleague hadnt done so, the House would invite him on its own.

Schumer told reporters Wednesday he was discussing that now with the Speaker of the House.

And as Ive always said, our relationship with Israel is ironclad and transcends any one prime minister or president, the New York Democrat added.

Schumer condemned Israels approach in Gaza in March and called for the country to make significant course corrections in the war to protect civilians, a dramatic shift in his steadfast support for the country to that point.

He went on to say Netanyahu had lost his way by allowing his political survival to take precedence over the best interests of Israel.

Reps for Johnson and Schumer did not immediately reply to a request for comment on Thursday.

"Tonight I'm happy to announce to you: We will soon be hosting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Capitol for a joint session of Congress. This will a timely and very strong show of supprort the Israeli governmey[."



-- House Speaker Johnson pic.twitter.com/SpH0dSQlTu  Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) May 24, 2024

The specter of an invitation has prompted frustration from many Democrats, who remain angered with Israels ongoing assault in Gaza and the lack of progress on a cease-fire agreement.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) was one of several members of Congress who vowed to boycott any address.

Its a terrible idea, no I wont go, Sanders told CNN on Wednesday. You have a prime minister who has created the worst humanitarian disaster in modern history. Israel of course had the right to defend itself against the Hamas terrorist attack. But what Netanyahu has done is gone to war against, all-out war, against the entire Palestinian people.

The invitation comes just days after the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said he had asked for arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the leaders of Hamas for war crimes and crimes against humanity over the ongoing war in Gaza. The prosecutor, Karim Khan, said the Israeli prime minister and the countrys defense minister, Yoav Gallant, were responsible for the crimes, linking the men to intentional attacks against civilians and the use of starvation as a weapon of war.

The effects of the use of starvation as a method of warfare, together with other attacks and collective punishment against the civilian population of Gaza are acute, visible and widely known, Khan said earlier this week.

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JOPLIN, Mo.  You can expect an up-tick in some small bloodsucking parasites this year in Missouri.

Were talking about ticks: Experts say, this year, residents can expect an increase in them due to a mild winter season.

Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center employees say tick season has even started earlier than normal due to higher temperatures. And with an increase in the population of ticks  you can also expect in increase of tick-borne diseases.

According to the CDC  for example  in 2021, there were a little more than 36,000 tick-borne disease cases reported across the United States. In 2022, that number rose to more than 71,000 reported cases.

Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Alpha-gal are just a few of the diseases ticks are known to carry.

So I would say a lot of people kind of tend to let the fear of ticks keep them from getting outdoors, which is definitely not what you want to do. You want to get outside and enjoy the warm season. So a couple of things you can do is, of course, spray on some insect repellent, like something with DEET in it. A lot of people might treat some of their equipment or their clothing with Permethrin, something like that, said Kensi Tillman, Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center Naturalist.

Tillman also recommends using eucalyptus oil. Plus, she says wearing long pants can also help protect you from ticks.

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(Bloomberg) -- Argentine President Javier Milei warned Thursday that his entire cabinet will be under review depending on the result of his pro-business reform bill grinding its way through Congress.

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Newspapers La Nacion and Clarin reported earlier in the day that the libertarian leader was weighing whether to oust Cabinet Chief Nicolas Posse, who didnt attend a concert Milei hosted Wednesday night to celebrate his new book, unlike many of the presidents ministers. If true, it would become the highest-level departure since Milei took office Dec. 10.

The bill could end well or could not come out, Milei said in an interview with TV station LN+. We will then have to evaluate the results. The entire cabinet will be put under analysis  not just Posse  all of the ministers.

Read More: Argentinas Economy Extends Downturn in March Amid Milei Cuts

Mileis reform package passed the lower house of Congress in April, but has since stalled in a senate committee as moderate blocs seek to water it down while the opposition party intends to vote it down. While the bill passed the lower house by a healthy margin, the opposition Peronist party holds 33 of the 72 senate seats compared to the seven in Mileis party, meaning hell need help from other parties for final approval.

Milei added Thursday that if the bill passes Congress, the government would lower a tax known locally as Impuesto PAIS thats applied when Argentines exchange pesos for dollars at a bank, among other transactions. He also would appoint former central bank chief Federico Sturzenegger, who authored many of the reforms in the bill, as a minister.

No date is set for a vote in the senate, though Milei hinted it could come in June or July after he initially aimed to have it passed by May 25, a historic date in Argentina.

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BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The latest drills of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) surrounding Taiwan Island were the largest in scale, and vessels were getting closer to the island "than ever before," mainland military experts said Friday.

The PLA's Eastern Theater Command conducted joint military drills around Taiwan Island from Thursday to Friday. The exercise was carried out in the Taiwan Strait, to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, and in areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

It came in deterrence of Taiwan's new leader Lai Ching-te, whose debut speech on May 20 was filled with hostility and provocations, showing that he has adopted an even riskier and more radical approach toward "Taiwan independence" than his predecessors.

Meng Xiangqing, a professor from Beijing-based National Defense University, said on Friday that mainland's coast guard vessels entered the waters near the Wuqiu and Dongyin islands for the first time during the drills, completely shattering Taiwan authorities' notion of the so-called "restricted waters."

In an interview with Xinhua, Meng said the scale of the drills was larger than previous ones and the forces deployed were stronger, with long-range artillery systems, conventional missile systems, and fighter jets forming a "firepower package."

During the drills, a multi-directional, deep close-in simulation animation was released by the PLA, simulating PLA vessels approaching Taiwan Island. Meng said the vessels were unprecedentedly close to the coast of Taiwan.

This means that "there has been an increasing level of pressure against the space of Taiwan's so-called military defense, and this pressure has reached a significant level," Meng said.

Tong Zhen, an expert from the Academy of Military Sciences, said in the same interview that the drills mainly targeted the ringleaders and political center of "Taiwan independence," and involved simulated precision strikes on key political and military targets.

Strike drills were carried out against significant targets such as ports and airports to cut off the island's "blood vessels" and block out its "foreign aid regiments," Tong said.

The joint precision strikes feature the integration of the army, navy, air force and rocket force, as well as new-domain forces with new combat capabilities, Meng said, adding that the key objects of the drills were establishing dominance in the air, sea and information fields.

He highlighted the importance of the drills held off the east of Taiwan Island, the direction from which external intervention forces are likely to come.

"'Taiwan independence' separatists have long considered the island's eastern direction to be their backyard and 'shelter,' but the drills have shown that we can control that eastern area," Meng said.

He noted that the control operation has delivered the following messages: "Taiwan independence" separatists cannot escape; foreign intervention cannot get in; and the preservation of the island's military power is an illusion. 
Millennials are set to get their first Catholic saint after an Italian teenager was awarded a second miracle this week.

Carlo Acutis, who died of leukemia at the age of 15 in 2006, is set to become the first saint of the millennial generation, according to the Vatican.

An image of 15-year-old Carlo Acutis, an Italian boy who died in 2006 of leukemia, is unveiled during his beatification ceremony celebrated by Cardinal Agostino Vallini in the St. Francis Basilica, in Assisi, Italy, Oct. 10, 2020.

Acutis, who was born in London but grew up in Milan, was known as Gods Influencer, utilizing his computer skills to spread the Catholic faith, including creating a database of Eucharistic miracles.

He was beatified in 2020 after allegedly helping to heal a Brazilian child who suffered from a congenital disease. Pope Francis honored him with the second miracle Thursday after he was credited with helping to heal a student in Florence who suffered from brain bleeding, according to BBC News.

In order to be attributed a miracle, seen as acts that go beyond what is possible naturally, several months of assessments are required. Two are needed for canonization.

Acutis was named at the 2023 World Youth Day for his important role in evangelization through the internet, according to Reuters.

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Milwaukee teen with ghost gun killed two 15-year-olds during robbery, complaint says

Alejandro Sanchez, left, and Monroe Weso, right, both 15, were identified as victims in a double homicide.

A 15-year-old boy has been accused in last weekends shooting that killed two teens of the same age, allegedly using a ghost gun he took from a family member, according to a complaint filed Thursday.

Thursday, prosecutors charged Christopher N. Scott in adult court on two counts of first-degree reckless homicide and one count of armed robbery. He's not in custody and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.

Ghost guns have become a growing issue for law enforcement in Milwaukee, where police have recovered more every year since 2020. They are firearms that are unserialized and untraceable, assembled from separate pieces that can be bought without a background check.

The shooting, reported at 10:30 p.m. Saturday in the 1400 block of West Halsey Avenue on Milwaukees south side, killed Alejandro Sanchez and Monroe Weso, both 15.

"Its problematic on many levels, but we have an issue with guns in Milwaukee," said Ald. Scott Spiker, who represents the area. "Its really disturbing that youth are having this sort of easy access to guns."

Childrens access to firearms in general  serialized or not  has been of concern in Milwaukee and the nation, especially since a historic wave of gun-buying occurred at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have shown a correlation between gun ownership and higher rates of youth firearm deaths and injuries.

Youth homicides and injuries from guns have doubled in Milwaukee in the years since the pandemic. And in 2020, firearm-related injuries surpassed motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of death for people between 1 and 19 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Legislation that would mandate universal background checks and encourage safe storage of firearms by adults hasn't gained traction in the Republican-controlled state Legislature.

If they want a gun, they can get a gun, community activist Tracey Dent said, when asked to describe childrens accessibility to guns in Milwaukee. People who have guns, they dont always pay attention. Next thing they know, its gone.

We have to start locking up these guns and using these guns' locks.

The families of Sanchez and Weso described the boys as best friends who were outgoing, friendly, creative and loved. Both families have set up GoFundMe pages to pay for memorial services.

Shooting happened during alleged robbery

Two bouquets of flowers and a figurine of a frog rest against a tree on the corner of West Halsey Avenue and South 14th Street, where two 15-year-olds were killed during a shooting on Saturday night in Milwaukee.

The complaint described how Scott brought a gun to a sleepover with two other males, one of them 13, and told them he wanted to rob Sanchez for marijuana.

Police previously announced the arrest of a 13-year-old boy in connection to the shooting. He hadn't been charged as of Friday morning.

The 13-year-old told police the three males were going to meet with Sanchez and stick him up, the complaint said. The gun was never supposed to be fired.

Scott told the 13-year-old the gun was a ghost gun from Minnesota and he stole it from a cousin, the complaint said. A long magazine was attached to it.

During the robbery, Sanchez and Scott got into a physical struggle over the gun. Weso appeared to try intervening after Scott got control of the gun and began shooting, the complaint said.

The incident was captured on a nearby surveillance camera.

Prevalence of guns linked to youth firearm injury

Milwaukee police recovered a ghost gun for the first time in 2020, and totaled eight that year. Ghost guns have grown in prevalence each year since then, with 182 recovered in 2023, according to the Milwaukee Police Department. Sixty-two have been recovered this year, as of Thursday.

Meanwhile, there were also record-setting gun sales nationwide in 2020.

In each of the four years since the arrival of the pandemic, Milwaukee has had an average of 105 children injured by guns and 24 killed in homicides, the majority of which are committed with guns. Those numbers doubled from the four years prior to 2020.

The trend has slowed in 2024, along with the citys overall gun violence and homicide rate, perhaps a result of a return to in-person youth programming and social services, and the rollout of federal aid meant to prevent community violence.

But law enforcement and community members continue to express concern about the accessibility of firearms to children.

In October, the Medical College of Wisconsin published a study that correlated a rise in the manufacturing of 9mm pistols with a rise in youth firearm deaths and injuries.

From 2001 to 2020, firearm deaths and injuries for children increased more than 48% and 69%, respectively, the study said. At the same time, pistol production in the U.S. increased by nearly 1,300%.

A 2006 study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that for every one percentage point increase in household gun ownership, youth homicides by firearm increased by 2.8% to 3.8%, depending on the age.

Where to find free gun locks

Contact Elliot Hughes at elliot.hughes@jrn.com or 414-704-8958. Follow him on X at @elliothughes12.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee teen with ghost gun killed two 15-year-olds, complaint says
Jason Hackett, a respected journalist and news anchor at Minneapolis NBC affiliate KARE 11, has always been candid about being gay with family and friends. However, he maintained a boundary between his personal life and professional career. That recently changed for Hackett as he had a significant announcement to make to the public.

According to Queerty, Hackett decided to come out as an openly gay Black man a few weeks ago on Sunrise, an early morning Minneapolitan news program he co-hosts alongside three other anchors.

Hackett began the news segment by showing a photo of himself on the cover of Lavender magazine, an award-winning LGBTQ+-focused publication based in the city. He mentioned that the publication approached him with the chance to share his coming out story with readers, and he agreed to take it.

He discussed how he had lived in a glass closet throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of embracing authenticity, a journey he felt compelled to embark on at this point in his life.

For people that really know me  my friends, my coworkers, some members of my family  this isnt some huge surprise, Hackett told Sunrise viewers. Ive been living in a glass closet for the most part, but now I wanted to let you out there, the viewers out there that wake up with me every morning, to know a little bit more about me.

He continued, I am so nervous right now  not gonna lie. This is no doubt the most people Ive ever come out to at once. But what me and Alicia and John and CeCe and everyone here on Sunrise strives for is authenticity. And I cant preach that without being my authentic self.

In his interview with Lavender, Hackett shared how many men and women are gay in the media industry but do not necessarily talk about it on television. His comfort level in sharing this information varies depending on the station and market he works in.

Ive come across a lot of gay people in this business, he admitted. And at my stations, every station Ive been at, Ive always been in this glass closet where Ive told people and people know, and its not this huge thing. Initially when I get to these stations, I am hesitant.

Hackett, whose family is from Jamaica, said he knew he was gay in the fifth or sixth grade, but it was hard to come out to his parents due to their conservative backgrounds and how the country frowns upon LGBTQ+ groups.

My parents are Jamaican immigrants, and Jamaica is not known for being a very friendly country when it comes to the LGBTQ community. I mean, you read of the horrible things with people being dragged and beaten in the streets, kids living in sewers and gutters because their parents dont accept them, just horrible, he said.

While his parents and close friends were aware of his sexuality, he had always been mindful of his career, mainly as he worked in conservative markets such as Florida, Iowa and Oklahoma City. In the Twin Cities, he felt the time was right to share this aspect of himself with his viewers.

For anyone that is watching this now who is struggling to find acceptance or struggling with their family or their friends, take it from me, a gay, Black son of immigrants, he said. The road may not be easy. I wont lie to you and say that it is. But dont worry; keep going. Youre going to make it.
Nearly four years ago, in response to the murder of George Floyd, a veto-proof majority of the Minneapolis City Council ascended a stage at Powderhorn Park festooned with giant letters: DEFUND POLICE. Reading a pledge to the audience, council members promised to begin the process of ending the Minneapolis Police Department and move toward a police-free future. Headlines soon announced that Minneapolis had committed to defunding, disbanding, or dismantling its police force. Both the radical left and the far right went further, arguing that such changes were a path, ultimately, to abolishing the police altogether.

Of course, as we know from the vantage point of 2024, Minneapolis did not defund, dismantle, or abolish its Police Department. Indeed, the Minneapolis Police Department budget has grown, from $181 million in 2019 to $210 million in 2023. A ballot initiative put forward in November 2021 to end the MPD and replace it with a new department of public safety was rejected by a majority of voters. Four years later, the popular consensus is that the Defund the police slogan was a failure, sowing division across the left at a moment when consensus should have been at its highest.

And yet the streets of Minneapolis tell a different story. As a result of the very strong movement to defund the police, in the words of Brian OHara, the new police chief, the number of officers on the force has dropped sharply. Since May 2020, the number of uniformed officers in Minneapolis has fallen by more than a third. The precipitating cause is not a lack of funding but rather a diminishment of peoples interest in becoming and staying officers with the department. The police, in other words, have downsized themselves. Whether or not the city wants more cops, the fact is its unlikely to find them, at least for now.

Though OHara has framed the drop as a five-alarm fire threatening the safety of city residents, its a victory of sorts for organizers. The reduction in the number of officers has meant that contact between police and residents is down, including discretionary or proactive police stops; between 2019 and 2023, MPD data shows that traffic stops and stops of suspicious persons and vehicles were cut in half. In 2023 and the first half of 2024, no one died in an encounter with the MPD. Importantly, the continued decline in officers in 2023 has not led to an increase in violent crime, which is receding alongside the pandemic. What all of that means is that Minneapolis has the opportunity now to make good on its promises of building a transformative new model of public safety.





To understand why, we have to go back to the Powderhorn declaration of June 2020. Council members pledges that day were the product of an intense period of mobilization. As I trace in my recent book, The Minneapolis Reckoning, they were also the culmination of years of activism. Black Lives Matter protests in the city had been sparked first in 2014, in solidarity with Ferguson after the killing of Michael Brown, and then expanded in 2015 after an officer with the MPD shot and killed Jamar Clark. In 2016, police in a nearby suburb killed Philando Castile. By the time the trial against that officer failed to secure a conviction, the winds had shifted in Minneapolis. Instead of fighting for criminal cases against officers and more training and oversight of the police, a group of young, predominantly Black, and queer and trans-led activists began fighting for police abolition. By 2017, the group MPD150 had put out its progress report, on the MPDs 150th anniversary, declaring that the only real path toward justice and liberation was a police-free future.

In the fiery wake of the protests that racked the city in May 2020, this idea met the rage of the moment. After experiencing years of significant and sustained pressure, the nine City Council members assembled on the stage were ready to heed activists call. There was only one problem: The council did not have the power to end the MPD on its own. The MPD was a protected department, written into the city charter. The city charter also stipulated that the MPD must maintain a minimum number of officers1.7 sworn officers per every 1,000 residents, a provision the officers federation won back in 1961.

Not only did the charter require this number of officers, it also gave complete power over the establishment, maintenance, and command of the police department to the mayor. And Mayor Jacob Frey made it clear that he did not support abolishing the police, despite the boos and cries of shame from activists at his doorstep. Faced with the mayors opposition and the constraints of the charter, the organizers and City Council members moved to change the city charter through a ballot initiativefirst in 2020 (an attempt blocked by the Charter Commission) and again in 2021.

By 2021, however, another kind of dismantling was underway: Officers had begun to abandon the department. They exited first using medical leave, often with claims for post-traumatic stress disorder related to the unrest. The department was authorized by the city budget to have a sworn officer count of 888 (and mandated to have roughly 730 by the charter); by mid-July 2020, more than 150 officers had filed for disabilitya staggering level of claims, according to their attorney. After this wave of losses, officers began retiring at accelerated rates too, right as the MPD began experiencing a crisis of recruitment, as the number of people applying to work for the department plummeted.

By the start of 2023, the department was down to just 600 uniformed officers, a size not seen since 1960 and the enactment of the mandatory minimum. As local media reported, that number gave the city one of lowest staffing ratios in the country, despite the promises of the charter. Today, the force stands at 560 officers.

Throughout the last four years, the police have made it clear who they blame. Lieutenant Robert Bob Kroll, a long-time antagonist of BLM organizers in the city and the president at the time of the Police Officers Federation of Minneapolis, put it most directly in summer 2020, when he told his membership in a leaked letter that the citys leadership had failed officers and the city by enabling BLM terrorists and the riot. Shortly afterward, in a televised interview with Minnesota Public Radio, Kroll and his team reiterated the point, blaming officers low morale and a sharp uptick in homicides on the failures of City Hall to support police work.

This same line from the police unionwhich amounts to an admission that public scrutiny and calls for change drive off would-be officerscontinues today. Though the threat of the charter amendment is (for now) over, the MPD continues to be pressured to reform, including by a consent decree with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights and another one that is in the works with the Department of Justice. As the new federation president, Sherral Schmidt, told reporters this fall, the MPD was struggling to hire because of the political nonsense within Minneapolis, coupled with low pay and two consent decrees.

As the MPD and its spokespersons are quick to note, the costs of the scaled-down police force are obvious. In the context of an unusually violent 2020 and 2021, the department struggled to respond to many kinds of crime, slowing or stopping investigations even for serious offenses. And while violent crime has waned over the past two years, the rates remain above 2019 levels. The department recently admitted that it spent two months with zero arson investigators; and Chief OHara suggested that it may stop investigating property crimes altogether. The department is also facing a substantial backlog of homicide cases.

But looked at another way, the loss of officers is a win; it demonstrates that organizers, not only in Minneapolis but across the country, have symbolically linked policing as an institution with violence and managed to disrupt its pipeline of enforcers. And the drop in policing numbers may bring some benefits to public safety too. While research is complex on the question of whether low-level police stops deter more serious crimes, what is clear is that they come with significant social costs, including the erosion of community trust and the destabilization of the families of those who undergo them.

Its also clear that policing is not the only way to prevent crime and disorder, nor do police always need to be the ones responding to crime. In Minneapolis, city leaders have started this work of building new models. For example, the city launched new behavioral crisis response teams, which send out unarmed responders to 911 calls related to mental and behavioral health crises, and sponsored community-based violence prevention programs, which seek to interrupt the cycle of violence through public presence and mentorship. These new programs are housed alongside the police in a new Office of Community Safety, mimicking the model behind the charter amendment. While city funding is still overwhelmingly directed toward the police, these kinds of programs represent the best path forward for developing new prevention and response models.

Just as the murder of George Floyd sent shock waves across the world four years ago, so too should the present-day realities of public safety in Minneapolis inform the national conversation on policing. In a moment when police departments across the country find themselves understaffed and beleaguered, as a survey of police chiefs across the nation put it, the time is ripe to experiment with new models. These new initiatives are the legacy of the defund movement, which still shapes the local politics of policing today. Its true impact will be measured in years, not months, and by our collective will for change.
Missing 70-Year-Old Woman Got Lost on a Walk. She Was Found 2 Days Later  Thanks to a Piece of Clothing

Elizabeth Schenk was found about 200 yards away after the clothing was found, officials said

Mendocino County Sheriff's Office Elizabeth Schenk

A 70-year-old California woman who spent nearly three days and two nights lost in the wilderness has been found safe thanks to an article of clothing.

Authorities located Elizabeth Schenk in a heavily wooded area north of Fort Bragg at about 4 p.m. local time on Thursday, May 23, according to the Mendocino County Sheriffs Office.

Schenk was in good spirits after rescuers found her and had only suffered minor scratches and abrasions due to exposure. She was transported to a local hospital in stable condition, the sheriffs office said.

Schenk, who is from Oakland and had been visiting the area, was reported missing on the morning of Tuesday, May 21, after she set out for a walk on a logging road and became lost. She called an unidentified man for help at around 9:30 a.m. and asked for directions, according to the sheriffs office.

Related: British Climber and Guide Missing on Mount Everest as Death of Another Mountaineer Confirmed

When he still hadnt heard from Schenk two hours later, the man became concerned and alerted authorities.

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Over the next 48 hours, more than 70 search and rescue volunteers from numerous counties around Northern California joined the search for Schenk, who was considered at risk due to several pre-existing medical conditions. Seven canines certified in scent trailing and unmanned aerial vehicles were also deployed in the area.

Related: Missing Calif. Hiker Spent 2 Days Alone in the Wilderness with Dog. Then Biologists Heard His Call for Help

Around mid-afternoon on May 23, searchers found a piece of clothing they believed belonged to Schenk, and she was located about 200 yards away, the sheriffs office said.

The woman was taken to Adventist Health Mendocino Coast Hospital as a precautionary measure, according to authorities.

Related: Missing Houston Woman Found Safe 2 Weeks After She Disappeared on Morning Walk with Her Dog

Searchers said the area where Schenk went missing has extremely steep topography with overgrown vegetation and forestation.

Due to the treacherous terrain and tough wilderness conditions, additional search and rescue aid was requested through the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), the Mendocino County Sheriffs Office said.



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Read the original article on People.
Missing earbud leads deputies to man accused of hitting teenage boy with an SUV

JENSEN BEACH  A teenaged boys earbud that was knocked free when he was struck Wednesday by an SUV while bicycling at night, helped investigators track down the Jensen Beach man charged Friday with multiple offenses, according to Martin County sheriffs officials.

The 15-year-old boy, who was riding on Northeast Savannah Road, was flown to St. Mary's Medical Center in West Palm Beach after being struck Wednesday by what was described then as a silver Hyundai Santa Fe.

The teenager is expected to recover from his injuries, sheriff's spokeswoman Christine Christofek said Friday.

A teenager riding a bicycle near a Cumberland Farms gas station at 2001 N.E. Savannah Road was struck by what a Martin County Sheriff's Office social media post described as a silver Hyundai Santa Fe, or a similar-style SUV Wednesday night, May 22, 2024.

Peter Bradford Swing, 49, of Jensen Beach, was arrested Friday by members of the agencys Hit and Run Task Force, charging him with leaving the scene of a crash with great bodily injury, sheriffs officials said.

The crash occurred near a Cumberland Farms gas station at 2001 N.E. Savannah Road north of Stuart.

The injured boy was wearing earbuds when he was struck and one flew into the SUV upon impact and lodged under a floor mat inside the vehicle, sheriffs officials stated in a social media post.

Martin County sheriffs officials say thanks to a missing earbud, investigators on Friday May 24 tracked it to a Hyundai Sante Fe they said was being driven two days earlier by Peter Bradford Swing, 49, of Jensen Beach when the SUV struck a teenage boy riding his bicycle near a Cumberland Farms gas station at 2001 N.E. Savannah Road.

That missing earbud provided investigators the ability to use geo-tracking to locate the damaged SUV behind Swings home in the 13000 block of South Indian River Drive, in Jensen Beach.

When deputies arrived, they determined someone was trying to hide the SUV involved in the crash behind the house. The passenger side of the vehicle had damage and a smashed-out back window as deputies suspected it would, sheriffs officials said.

Swing was located inside the home and told deputies he expected them to show up at some point, then provided a full confession into the crash.

He told investigators he panicked because he had served time in prison on drug charges, so he fled the scene, leaving the injured boy on the side of the road.

Florida Department of Corrections records show Swing was convicted in St. Lucie County in 2018 and was released from prison in June 2021 for convictions related to trafficking cocaine, possession of marijuana and being a felon in possession of a gun.

It was unclear Friday whether Swing had an attorney representing him.

Dining out?: One Martin County restaurant gets perfect score; 11 fail inspection

Disputed litigation ends: Owner of John's Island Real Estate and rival real estate agent dismiss contentious lawsuit

Melissa E. Holsman is the legal affairs reporter for TCPalm and Treasure Coast Newspapers and is writer and co-host of "Uncertain Terms," a true-crime podcast. Reach her at melissa.holsman@tcpalm.com. If you are a subscriber, thank you. If not, become a subscriber to get the latest local news on the Treasure Coast.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Missing earbud leads deputies to man accused of hitting boy with SUV
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Mississippi man is in custody after he was accused of shooting his son.

According to the Lafayette County Sheriffs Office, deputies responded to a shooting at a home on County Road 504 in Como at 2:08 a.m. Sunday.

Father, grandfather charged after 4-year-old fatally shoots himself

Deputies reportedly found a man shot in the living room of the home. The sheriffs office says the victim was rushed to Regional One Hospital in Memphis for treatment.

The sheriffs office says investigators arrived on the scene and, a short time later, arrested William Robert Adams, Sr., for aggravated assault.

The Lafayette County Sheriffs Office has not released details on what led to the shooting.

Adams was booked into the Lafayette County Detention Center and given a $100,000 bond.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
A Mississippi man accused of vandalizing a display from the Satanic Temple of Iowa in the state Capitol last December is pleading guilty to criminal mischief in exchange for a felony charge being dropped.

Michael Cassidy, a former Republican congressional candidate, was charged with a felony under under Iowa's hate crime statute for destroying the display, which depicted the horned deity Baphomet.

Cassidy, 36, later told a conservative website that "my conscience is held captive to the word of God, not to bureaucratic decree. And so I acted."

The vandalism, which occurred Dec. 14, came after intensive media coverage and consternation from political leaders over the display, which was installed under rules permitting religious groups to reserve display space in the Capitol.

Previously: Man who vandalized Satanic display at Iowa Capitol says he 'felt convicted' to remove it

Cassidy was set to stand trial June 3 after the court denied his motion to dismiss the case, but on Friday morning, his attorney filed a plea of guilty on his behalf. According to the filing, Cassidy admits to third-degree criminal mischief, but as an aggravated misdemeanor, without the hate crime enhancement.

He admits in writing that he "partially dismantled a display in the Iowa State Capitol Building, without a right/license to do so," and that the damage caused was greater than $750.

Satanic Temple of Iowa display at the Iowa State Capitol.

The agreement calls for Cassidy to receive a deferred judgment with two years probation, an $855 civil penalty, and to pay restitution in an amount to be determined.

He would also be required to participate in a victim-offender dialogue with representatives of the Satanic Temple if requested. The court is not bound to follow the sentencing recommendation in the plea.

Cassidy also in the filing requests immediate sentencing and waives his right to address the court.

Defense attorney suggests Cassidy targeted for his religion

In an emailed statement, Cassidy's attorney Sara Pasquale said she was pleased with the resolution and suggested prosecutors may have been biased against her client.

"We have continually contested the hate crime and questioned whether Mr. Cassidy was being targeted due to his religious beliefs," she said. "We are therefore very pleased that the state ultimately decided to drop the hate crime and are hopeful that this case will bring awareness to similar situations throughout the country."

But Lynn Hicks, a spokesman for the Polk County Attorney's Office, said in a statement prosecutors stand by the decision to bring the hate crime charge, known in Iowa as a "crime in violation of individual rights."

"While we believe the defendant did commit a crime in violation of individual rights, the decision to allow the defendant to plead guilty to an aggravated misdemeanor took into consideration various factors we weigh when we make a plea offer. Factors can include but are not limited to: taking full accountability for the criminal conduct, cooperation with law enforcement, the availability of evidence, and the defendants lack of criminal history," said Hicks, who also noted the restitution and victim-offender dialogue provisions of the plea agreement.

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: Iowa Capitol Satanic Temple display vandalism suspect pleads guilty
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.  Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a lawsuit against five states over energy policies that he claims are threats to Missouri energy.

The lawsuit, filed through the U.S. Supreme Court, challenges the states of California, Connecticut, Minnesota, New Jersey and Rhode Island.

Bailey contends that those five states want a global carbon tax on the traditional energy industry, citing concerns with climate change. He argues that the five states cannot set emissions policies that affect other states, such as regulating energy.

Woman and two children die in fiery crash on I-270

I will always fight to put Missouri consumers first, which includes protecting Missouri energy when it comes under attack by other states, said Bailey on the lawsuit via a news release. California and its radical counterparts are working to upend our economy with their unconstitutional climate agenda. My office will not allow a state with zero respect for the rule of law to dictate how Missourians live their lives.

The lawsuit aims to resolve whether states can impose regulations on global carbon emissions that affect other states, in addition to the federal governments role in such measures. With a global carbon tax, Bailey claims something as small as a gas station in rural Alabama selling a gallon of gas damages may lead to penalties.

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The lawsuit asserts that states rely on traditional energy sources like oil, natural gas, and coal and that changes imposed by other states could lead to economic disruptions.

Eighteen other states have joined Missouri in filing the lawsuit, according to Baileys office.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

HANOI, May 24 (Xinhua) -- A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported.

The building, which covers an area of 100 square meters, is located in a narrow alley approximately two meters wide and about 200 meters from Trung Kinh street, making it inaccessible to fire trucks, VnExpress reported.

The rental multistory-building has two rooms on each floor with the first floor used for electric bicycle sales and repairs, Vietnam News Agency reported.

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

An electric bicycle short circuit was initially cited as the main cause of the flames, which occurred at 0:30 a.m., said the agency.

The case is being further investigated.

A total of 1,555 fires and explosions happened in Vietnam in the first four months of this year, killing 28 people and injuring 26 others.

The fires and explosions caused property losses of some 89.8 billion Vietnamese dong (3.5 million U.S. dollars), according to the country's General Statistics Office.

A victim of a fire accident receives medical treatment at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, May 24, 2024. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

A victim of a fire accident receives medical treatment at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, May 24, 2024. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)
The GOP civil war has reached a new beachhead: blood-red Missouri.

The state's Republican attorney general primary is pitting incumbent Andrew Bailey against Will Scharf, a lawyer for Donald Trump. And while intraparty battles elsewhere in states such as Texas and Idaho have ostensibly focused on issues like school choice and vaccine mandates, the Aug. 6 primary in Missouri is centered largely around allegiance to the former president and who counts as a member of the oft-maligned "establishment."

Bailey, who was appointed to his position in 2022 and has never had to defend himself at the ballot box, has used his office to toss red meat to the base, filing lawsuits on issues such as transgender athletes and immigration and demanding the Justice Department provide documents and communications regarding investigations into Trump.

MORE: Nikki Haley says she 'will be voting for Trump'

Scharf, meanwhile, is promoting his ties to Trump just as the former president stands trial in New York while casting Bailey as an insider of Jefferson City -- a capital city with a Republican governor and GOP supermajorities in both state legislative chambers.

"I think this is going to be a lot of those factors here as far as a microcosm on establishment versus outsider, Trump versus traditional Republican," said one unaffiliated Missouri GOP strategist. "This is definitely going to be a race that's going to show how poignant one side or the other is and if anyone is able to fend off a funded Trump candidate without a lot of baggage at this point, in Scharf's case."

PHOTO: Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey arrives to testify during the House Homeland Security Committee hearing on 'Havoc in the Heartland: How Secretary Mayorkas' Failed Leadership Has Impacted the States' on Jan. 10, 2024. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE)

"I don't think you're gonna see a lot of policy differences between the two," added the operative, who, like others interviewed for this story, spoke anonymously to discuss the race. "I think it's just, is being affiliated with Trump more important, ultimately, than anything Bailey could have even done as AG?"

To break through, both campaigns are seeking Trump's endorsement. A source familiar with the race confirmed to ABC News that Scharf and the former president have discussed the primary, and Mike Hafner, a Bailey campaign consultant, said that the attorney general's camp and Trump's team have talked about the race.

PHOTO: Will Scharf is shown in this screen grab from a campaign video. (VoteScharf.com)

Yet it's unclear if Trump plans on getting involved in the race, leaving the candidates to fight it out among themselves. And with such little ideological daylight between Bailey and Scharf, the race is largely revolving around who is Trumpier and more of a fighter -- with early signs of an ugly race brewing.

A super PAC supporting Scharf, who is backed by well-heeled outside groups such as the Club for Growth and the Concord Fund, went up with an early ad saying that "Trump relies on Will Scharf as one of his lawyers to defend him from legal persecution and election interference" and that Scharf is "taking on the entire legal and media establishment."

Bailey has fired his own shots, dubbing Scharf "Wall Street Willy," noting his affluent, East Coast upbringing and ties to wealthy outside benefactors through his PAC.

Although Bailey is technically the incumbent, operatives compared the primary to one for an open seat given that neither candidate has appeared on a general election ballot before, and both contenders are anticipated to hold nothing back to cast themselves as the right choice for primary voters just getting up to speed on the race.

"Both candidates have shown a willingness to attack, and I think this is going to be a no-holds-barred race," a second Missouri GOP strategist said. "Whenever [you've] got an open seat, it's important to define yourself, but it's also important to find your opponent. And I think both of the candidates are going to try to do that to the best of their abilities."

Observers speculated that Scharf has the upper hand in a more national knife fight given his legal representation of the GOP leader at a time when polls show Republican voters believe Trump is being treated unfairly by the legal system -- a message that can be blitzed across the airwaves by millions in outside spending.

PHOTO: Former President Donald Trump speaks to reporters at Manhattan criminal court in New York, May 20, 2024. (Steven Hirsch/New York Post via AP, Pool, FILE)

"If you're a Missouri Republican, or I'd say, Republican voter in general, they believe that Trump, a lot of these various cases and charges are a stretch or reach," said a third Missouri GOP strategist. "And Will Scharf's ability to say, 'I'm a Trump lawyer,' the primary voters will say he is at the tip of the spear fighting and defending liberty."

"... It will resonate, and it will be probably all Will Scharf needs to say," the strategist added.

Some Scharf allies insisted the race has less to do with Trump and more to do with frustration with what voters view as broader inaction in Jefferson City on issues near and dear to the GOP faithful -- warranted or not.

"Conservatives  want a proactive, activist, conservative attorney general who is going to take the fight to the left. And there's a belief and a perception, and I believe it to be true, that that's not Bailey, but that very much is Will, someone who's gonna upset the applecart, someone who's going to be an agent of change, rather than just another Jefferson City person who's gonna go along to get along and not get much done," said one Scharf campaign aide.

Multiple sources who spoke to ABC News said voters perceive Jefferson City to be a "swamp" -- despite it being a seat of unified Republican power -- and said the perception extends to those who work there, including Bailey, who was appointed to his role by a governor he previously served as general counsel, regardless of policy.

"[Bailey] is a good pro-Trump, pro-Second Amendment, pro-life conservative," the third GOP strategist said. "I don't think you can really find anything wrong with his record as attorney general."

MORE: Facing backlash, Trump walks back comments on restricting contraceptives

Bailey's campaign has highlighted the litany of lawsuits he's filed against the Biden administration and action on culture war issues, including local lightning rods such as going after former St. Louis prosecutor Kim Gardner and defending Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker over controversial remarks he made about women.

"I think that Andrew Bailey is doing all the right things that you'd want to see in a conservative fighter, and I think Missourians will respond well to that in August," Hafner said.

"We've been as pro-Trump as Scharf has been," he added. "There's not going to be a whole lot of daylight where we're at ideologically, but man, there's a whole lot of character issues that we're gonna make a pretty significant contrast with Will Scharf on."

To be certain, Bailey is not the only conservative to be targeted in Missouri this year. The state's Republican National Committee members, all of whom ran with Trump's endorsement, were ousted this year. And the GOP primary to replace term-limited Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, is also divisive.

But the attorney general primary offers particularly incisive tea leaves given the way Bailey has performed in office -- and, strategists said, in a race dominated by national trends, overcoming Scharf's proximity to Trump will be no small feat.

"I'm not sure if he can do anything," the third strategist bluntly said.

"He's going to attempt to say that Will Scharf is this kid from New England who's a private-equity kid who went to Harvard  and he's a carpetbagger," the source added. "Will that persuade some voters? Yes. But at the end of the day, in Missouri, I think statewide Trump with Republicans has nearly an 80% favorable rating. And so, if you're Will Scharf, you can kind of write off the 20% that maybe don't like Trump and still win."

Missouri attorney general race emerges as new front in GOP civil war originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Missouri is losing out on more than a billion dollars due to a lack of childcare

Missouri is losing out on more than a billion dollars due to a lack of childcare

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo  Missouris economy is taking a significant hit, with more than a billion dollars lost due to insufficient childcare options, according to the states business community. Despite this pressing issue, the General Assembly has once again failed to approve tax credits designed to support the childcare industry, a priority for Governor Mike Parson.

Missouri is facing a childcare crisis, with 94 of its 114 counties classified as childcare deserts. This shortage forces many employees to leave their jobs voluntarily due to the unavailability or high cost of childcare services.

Over the past two years, the state has lost 1,100 childcare providers, leaving some counties completely without facilities.

Governor Parson has emphasized the importance of addressing this issue, urging lawmakers to pass tax credits aimed at alleviating the problem. However, for the second consecutive year, the legislation did not pass in the Senate.

Pledge dad in Mizzou hazing case sentenced to jail, house arrest

Governor Parson expressed his frustration, stating, Its unfortunate theres certain people who are holding it up for the benefit of political reasons.

The lack of childcare is a significant concern for both employers and employees. Employers are struggling to find workers, while employees wrestle with the challenge of finding affordable and reliable childcare.

Senator Lauren Arthur, said, Just because we didnt pass legislation doesnt mean that the issue has gone away; if anything, its going to get worse.

Governor Parson argued that supporting the childcare industry should be a priority for state funding, said, Of all the things we do with state money sometimes on pet projects and everything else, we ought to be able to help everyday people go to work and thats what makes the economy grow.

Woman and two children die in fiery crash on I-270

The failure to pass the legislation has led to a blame game, with some pointing fingers at the Republican group known as the Freedom Caucus.

Critics argue that the group prioritizes political infighting over practical solutions. In contrast, members of the Freedom Caucus argue against the proliferation of tax credit programs, claiming that they have not spurred growth in Missouri.

The economic impact of the childcare shortage is substantial. According to the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, the states economy lost over $1.3 billion last year due to the lack of childcare.

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Many parents are forced to make a difficult choice: quit their jobs to care for their children or pay exorbitant amountsranging from $10,000 to $15,000 annuallyfor childcare services.

Sen. Arthur urged voters to consider this issue in upcoming elections, saying, Ultimately, I hope voters go to the polls in August and in November and pay close attention to who is supportive of trying to make childcare more affordable and accessible, and who stood in the way of that.

While the state budget for this year includes roughly $78 million for childcare subsidies aimed at helping low-income families, many argue that this amount is insufficient to address the broader issue. Governor Parson remains uncertain about calling a special session to tackle this problem.

As Missouri grapples with this childcare crisis, the economic and social ramifications continue to grow, underscoring the urgent need for legislative action and comprehensive solutions.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
NEOSHO, Mo.  Missouri State Representative Ben Baker, who represents Newton Countys 160th District, made the sad announcement overnight that one of his daughters and his son-in-law were murdered.

Davy and Natalie Lloyd were missionaries in Haiti.

Last night two local gangs attacked one of their missions. Representative Baker posted to Facebook early Friday morning saying his heart is broken into a thousand pieces and that hes never felt this kind of pain.

Natalie and Davy Lloyd, provided by Ben Baker

The Lloyd family runs the Missions in Haiti, Inc., the Christian organization is based out of Claremore, Oklahoma. And in a chilling post on social media, the Lloyd family described a first attack where their son was tied up and beaten.

They said there was a second attack where Natalie and Davy were shot and killed. Another member of their group was also killed. Natalie was just 20 years old.

Representative Baker says this is a difficult time for their family and they are asking the public to respect their privacy in this time of mourning. A gofundme has been established to assist with the Lloyds funeral expenses here.

Haitis main airport in Port-au-Prince just reopened earlier this week after gang violence forced authorities to close it three months ago. The country has been in chaos for more than a year now. Many have been unable to evacuate.

Humanitarian aid and supplies havent been available for months. According to the Associated Press, gangs control about 80-percent of the capital in Haiti.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the two U.S. citizens killed by gangs in Haiti. On behalf of the President, our Ambassador in Haiti is in touch with the families who we know are experiencing unimaginable grief. Our Embassy is ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. Unfortunately, this serves as a reminder that the security situation in Haiti cannot wait  too many innocent lives are being lost. During Kenyan President Rutos visit yesterday, President Biden reiterated the United States commitment to support the expedited deployment of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission to bolster the Haitian National Polices capabilities to protect civilians, restore the rule of law, and pave the way to democratic governance. Working with Congress, we are supporting this MSS mission and other Haitian-led efforts. Matthew Miller, State Department Spokesperson

More than 1,500 have been killed so far this year according to the United Nations.

Gangs have directed their attacks on previously peaceful communities, leaving thousands homeless.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
Mold was observed in and around an ice bin at a local liquor store and there was dirt and grime seen at several Stanislaus County food facilities during health inspections conducted in early May.

The majority of the 2,400 permitted food service establishments in the county receive two unannounced routine food safety inspections per year, according to the Department of Environmental Resources. The website says inspection reports are scanned weekly.

Food trucks that operate under a Stanislaus County Health Department permit are also inspected by the county, though those are scheduled and done at the departments office.

Dirty conditions at a Stanislaus County restaurant? How to report health code violations

Of the 33 restaurant inspection reports sent to The Modesto Bee on Wednesday, five were not updated on the site as of Thursday morning.

If an inspection listed below needs clarification, business owners can email Modesto Bee reporter Dominique Williams at dwilliams@modbee.com.

major

Violations were found during routine inspections of the following Stanislaus County food facilities during the week of May 6-12. Only the dates of violations are listed.

The details of the reports do not indicate whether a restaurant passed or failed inspection. Corrective actions may have been made by the business by the time of publication.

The reports are linked. For updates on individual restaurants, search the DER website.

The Fruit Yard Country Market, 7948 Yosemite Blvd. in Modesto, had three violations on May 6  one of them major. The hot-hold unit had beef ribs with a temperature of 124 degrees and beans at 129 degrees (must be 135 degrees or higher). The exterior of trash containers in the deli area had grime build up. The walk-in refrigerator floor area had dirt and grime accumulation.

Del Taco, 1601 Standiford Ave. in Modesto, had five violations on May 7. The floor covering behind the ice machine was slightly detached, exposing a gap large enough to collect dust and may allow vermin to enter. The gaskets in the walk-in refrigerator and walk-in freezer were worn out. A portion of the interior wall of the walk-in refrigerator was damaged. The soda machine drain pipes were touching the floor sink rim.

Shah Groceries, 2353 W. Main St. in Turlock, had 11 violations on May 8  four of them major. Inspectors observed single-service food utensils stored next to propane fluid. The glass display case held cooked samosas at 119 degrees. A hot-holding unit held cooked basmati rice at 97 degrees. Potentially hazardous foods must be at 135 degrees or higher. The water temperature in both restrooms was at 70 degrees (must be 100 to 108 degrees).

Raw chicken was stored in a steel colander and was being cut on a cutting board placed on top of the three-compartment sink. There were soiled food utensils on both drain boards in the three-compartment sink. The dry storage area was in disarray and filled with rubbish and there were several bulk food bags directly on the floor. The staff lacked food handler cards and the food safety certification was missing.

Del Taco, 4300 Salida Blvd. in Salida, had five violations on May 9. The ice chute of the dining area soda fountain had a small accumulation of grime. The rubber gasket around the door to the walk-in freezer was damaged, preventing the door from closing fully. Unsealed plywood that had discolored and accumulated grime was found in the back area of the kitchen near the ware-wash and food preparation sinks. The window in the drive-thru area did not close fully, leaving a gap large enough to allow entry of pests. There was not a cover above the drive-thru window.

House of Liquor, 4742 Broadway Ave. in Salida, had seven violations on May 9  two of them major. Inspectors observed mold accumulation within the ice bin, on the ceiling and on the wall behind the bin. The facility did not have sanitizer or sanitizer test strips onsite and had an ice machine and two soda machines with nozzles that required proper cleaning. The floor sink within the walk-in refrigerator and the floor sink beneath the soda machines had accumulated grime and debris. Paper towels were lacking in the dispenser at the hand wash sink in the bathroom and toilet paper was found loose and the dispenser was empty. Mold had accumulated on the wooden shelves within the walk-in refrigerator.

Other food facilities with three or more, or major, violations at the time of their inspections include:

Minor

According to Stanislaus County, food facilities that had one to two violations, none of them major, are:

No violations for some Stanislaus County food facilities

These food facilities had no violations, according to the county:
Mom catches sex offender filming her teenage daughter in a Target. But cops wont do anything about it

Monica Geisel (right) confronts a man later revealed to be a registered sex offender (left) in a Target after she says he took a video of her teenage daughter (Facebook)

An Ohio woman confronted a sex offender who was recording her teenage daughter in a Target  and police say they cant take any action to stop the man.

Monica Geisel was with her 16-year-old daughter in a Rossford, Ohio, Target this week when the incident occurred, local outlet 13 ABC reports. Her daughter caught the confrontation between Ms Geisel and the man on video.

You took a video, Ms Geisel tells the man. Show it to me.

The man, who police confirmed is a registered sex offender, claims he took a video of her daughters cart instead as Ms Geisel reaches for his phone.

Thats disgusting, she continued. In a later conversation with 13 ABC, Ms Geisel said she saw videos of other people on his phone too.

I see a ton of videos of other people on there, other girls on there, and so thats when I try to grab his phone and he instantly, you know, like, pushed my arm and like took it, and thats when he started walking away, Ms Geisel told the outlet. Its not that he was just recording people, hes recording her inappropriately, and hes zooming in on body parts of her.

The video - which was filmed by Ms Geisel daughter and shared online - then shows Ms Geisel following the man to the stores entrance, shouting to the room: This guys making videos of underage girls at Target.

Rossford Police Chief Todd Kitzler told The Independent his office cannot take action against the man, whose identity has yet to be released.

Now, its disturbing, dont get me wrong, but its, its not illegal, Chief Kitzler said.

Monica Geisel (right) confronts a man later revealed to be a registered sex offender (left) in a Target after she says he took a video of her teenage daughter (Facebook)

After the Target incident, Rossford police encountered the man while doing a traffic stop. While speaking to him, Chief Kitzler said his officers conferred with a prosecutor during the stop  who told them they cannot take any legal action.

We contacted the sheriffs office, which monitors his offender registration, and they said that there was nothing they could do, Chief Kitzler told The Independent.

We determined that hes not on parole or probation or anything like that, so our hands were pretty much tied, he continued.

Ms Geisel told 13 ABC she is now spreading the video and her story to raise awareness for other community members. That has led to many social-media users to comment about the situation.

Why did no one help her as this was going on....and its not a crime for strangers to film underage children? Come on.... This world needs to start doing better, one user posted on Facebook.

Unbelievable that nothing can be done, another said.

Other Facebook users praised Ms Geisel for her quick thinking: We need more strong and bold moms like her out there protecting their daughters!
Mom headed to hospital to see sick child was critically injured in I-75 crash that killed 5

A mother who was on the way to an Atlanta hospital to be with her sick child was critically injured in a crash on I-75 in Bartow County that killed five other people.

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Tori Lawson was driving from her home back to Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta to be with her 2-year-old son, who was battling a high fever, when she was involved in the multi-car crash on Sunday.

Her thoughts were solely on reaching him and ensuring he received the best care possible, a family friend said on GoFundMe.

The crash killed a 21-year-old woman and four members of the same Cartersville family.

According to her friend Mason Luker, Lawson was critically injured in the crash, but has since made improvements and is stable.

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The hours following her admission were crucial as the team worked tirelessly to manage her injuries and prevent any further complications, Luker said. Miraculously, over the last few days, Tori has shown incredible resilience and strength.

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Luker said Lawson has a very long road to recovery that includes many surgeries and physical therapy. The community is now raising money to help with mounting medical bills.

Tori was doing nothing wrong, and only wanted to get back to the hospital to be with her son, Luker wrote. She is loved by so many people and did not deserve any of this whatsoever.

Luker did not detail Lawsons injuries or say whether her son is still in the hospital.

Investigators said a Kia van traveling northbound crossed the center median on I-75, setting off the chain-reaction crash.

Family members Erin, Dakari and Titus Mason, 6; and Brandon Crawford, 14, were all killed. Aimee Odom, 21, was also killed.

The crash is still under investigation.

You can donate to Lawsons GoFundMe HERE.




PINEVILLE, Mo.  A Monett man pleads guilty to possessing methamphetamine with an intent to distribute and was sentenced in McDonald County Circuit Court Tuesday.

Richard Fouts, 64, was sentenced on one count of C Felony Possession with intent to distribute and received 10 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

FOUR STATES CRIME

It stems from a late 2020 traffic stop where Fouts and a passenger were found to be in possession of nearly a quarter-pound of methamphetamine, plus more than $1,600 in cash. Fouts told the Granby Police Department officer that the methamphetamine was solely his.

The case was originally charged as a Class A felony drug trafficking until a lab report revealed the amount of drugs was under the statutory amount required to support the charge. The 10 year sentence is the maximum sentence permitted by law for a possession with intent to distribute.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
After months of taking heat from critics concerning the pace of suspension and/or revocation of teaching licenses, state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters and the Oklahoma Board of Education took action Thursday on 17 licensing issues, more than the board handled throughout all of 2023.

Until this month, the board under Walters  who took office in January 2023  had handled 28 cases involving the suspension or revocation of teaching licenses, and 14 of those came during the board's January 2024 meeting. All told, Walters' board has taken action on the licenses of 42 people since he took office.

By comparison, his predecessor as state superintendent, Joy Hofmeister, and her board took action on the licenses of almost 200 people during her eight years in office.

One of Walters most vocal critics concerning the lack of speed in suspending teaching licenses is Sean Cummings, the vice mayor of The Village and a frequent speaker at State Board of Education meetings. But on Thursday, he praised the board.

First things first  I like what I just saw, Cummings told the board. I wish that had been happening for (the past) 18 months, but I like what I just saw.

Walters promised there would be more action on license suspensions and revocations in the coming months.

We are very much taking a serious look at these sexual predators in the classroom, Walters said. We took a big step today. Youre going to see it at the next board meeting, too.  Youre going to hear us continue to fight to keep every kid in Oklahoma safe.

Nine teaching licenses suspended at OSDE meeting

The nine teachers Thursday who had their licenses suspended by an emergency order were Cody Barlow, John Boggs III, Stephen Gainor, Donald Holt, Tyler Patrick McGrew, Aron Wayne Pearcy, Floyd R. Robinson, Jaelah Marche Rose and Vernon Tyler Thetford.

Barlow, a former middle school principal and high school math teacher in Wewoka, faces charges of inappropriately touching two children. He has denied the charges in the criminal case, filed in April 2023. However, a civil lawsuit against him and the school district was settled for $1.95 million.

The Oklahoma City Public Schools district fired Gainor last May after placing him on leave the previous February. Gainor didnt attend the special district board meeting at which his termination was considered. NonDoc reported Gainor was fired for allegedly putting a middle-school student in an inappropriate hold.

Board member Katie Quebedeaux is shown in February at an Oklahoma Board of Education meeting.

The board also accepted a hearing officers proposed findings of fact in the cases of three teachers whose licenses had been suspended by the board since December  Kristen Andrews, Christen Covel and Hao Jiang. Covel was arrested in January 2022, when she worked at a Tulsa middle school, on complaints issued by Kansas law enforcement involving actions while she taught at a Wichita middle school in 2018 and 2019. In June 2023, she was sentenced in Kansas to two years and 10 months in prison.

Jiang is a former Western Heights Public Schools teacher who has not been charged with a crime, although a report circulated on social media late last year about the teacher's alleged efforts to meet with an underage boy. A news release from the Oklahoma State Department of Education last December referred to Jiang as a "pedophile" despite the lack of charges.

The board also referred five other cases to a hearing officer to revoke teaching certificates for Amanda Bristow, Toya Edwards-Benton, Essence Fields, Brandi Price and Travis Sloat. Bristow is a former teacher for Deer Creek Public Schools. Fields, a former Owasso teacher, is on trial for first-degree murder in Tulsa County and is in custody.

Ryan Walters takes shot at his predecessor concerning the pace of license suspensions

Walters said he was comfortable with suspending and revoking licenses even though some of the teachers involved have not been convicted  or even charged  with a crime. Walters used a question about the subject to criticize Hofmeister.

We have taken a very different approach than my predecessor. We are not waiting on charges to be brought and adjudicated to pull licenses, Walters said.

Without offering proof, Walters said the state Education Department now has more investigators in the agency. Our directive has been clear  if we find evidence of sexual misconduct by a teacher, if we find teachers breaking that teacher code of conduct, we are not going to wait on a conviction. We are absolutely going to move at that point in time."

Walters added: You guys know theres a process, right? They still have a process here, but were going to get them out of the classroom. Were going to make sure those kids are protected. Its an absolute shift in the way were going to deal with sexual predators in my administration from the previous one.

Hofmeister has not commented on Walters' allegations concerning the pace of teacher license revocations.

Walters has offered no explanation for the slow pace of licensing actions during his time as superintendent. The agency did go several weeks without any attorneys on staff as the four hed hired all left the agency during March, part of a mass exodus of at least 130 employees since Walters took office.

A new agency general counsel, Michael Beason, attended Thursdays meeting and sat at the board table. The agency has yet to announce Beasons hiring or respond to open records requests regarding his hiring contract. Beason replaces Bryan Cleveland, one of the lawyers who resigned from the agency in March, as general counsel. Cleveland now works for EdChoice, a nonprofit organization based in Indianapolis.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma State Board of Education votes on 17 teaching licenses
CHENGDU, May 24 (Xinhua) -- A road accident that has killed five people in southwest China's Sichuan Province was caused by driver fatigue, police said Friday.

A car crashed into the crowd waiting for buses at around 7:20 a.m. Tuesday in Wusheng County, killing two on the scene. Despite medical efforts, three more people later died from their injuries.

An initial investigation found that the 52-year-old car driver, surnamed Sun, had played mahjong overnight and drove the car when he felt sleepy and exhausted, according to the public security bureau of the county. 
Russian forces destroyed a monument to early 20th century revolutionary Nestor Makhno on May 23, in the center of Huliaipole, a town in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Governor Ivan Fedorov reported this on his Facebook page and added a photo of the aftermath.

The monument to Nestor Makhno is not included in the list of monuments of cultural heritage, but since 2009 was an unofficial symbol of Huliaipole, he said.

Fedorov also emphasized that the Russian military has thus far destroyed 46 cultural heritage sites in Zaporizhia Oblast.

As of March, at least 945 cultural heritage sites have been damaged or destroyed throughout Ukraine.

The famous Ukrainian anarchist revolutionary, born in Huliaipole, who fought in the surrounding steppe, had his statue protected by sandbags. The monument was emblazoned with a skull and had his signature Freedom or Death motto.

Read also: Ministry: Russias war destroys or damages almost 2,000 cultural facilities

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Gov. Wes Moore (D) vetoed four bills and allowed identical versions of a House and Senate bill to become law without his signature. The actions announced Friday were on the final batch of bills passed this year by the legislature. File photo by Bryan P. Sears.

A bill that would have curbed some public notice advertising revenue for newspapers in Maryland has been vetoed by Gov. Wes Moore (D).

House Bill 1258 was one of four from the 2024 legislative session vetoed by Moore. Two others  identical House and Senate bills expanding the scope of work audiologists can do  were allowed to go into law without the signature of the governor.

All the actions announced Friday were expected.

In vetoing the public notice bill, Moore cited concerns about ensuring the existence of thriving independent local media.

HB 1258, sponsored by Del. Elizabeth Embry (D-Baltimore City), would have ended the requirement that public notice on estates be placed in newspapers around the state, allowing them instead to be published on a central website created by the states registers of wills.

The bill was overlooked by newspapers and media organizations who have fought off similar bills over the years. Those same groups launched a lobbying effort after the session to secure Moores veto.

Rebecca Snyder, executive director of the Maryland-Delaware-DC Press Association, said the veto underscores Gov. Moores acknowledgement of the role of news media and how important our watchdog function is  not only the investigative work that that news media is known for but also the public notice and public records that are a really important way to hold government people in power accountable.

We understand that this is part of a broader conversation and were willing certainly to work with other stakeholders on this, but we are really happy to have seen kind of the fruits of our advocacy come to pass, Snyder said.

The press association, which represents newspapers in the state, said the move would end a practice of independence and transparency. It also would have hit the flagging industry in its pocketbook, a fact noted by Moore.

The press also plays an important role in public accountability through investigative journalism, Moore wrote in his veto letter. Public notice requirements have helped sustain much of the local print media in Maryland as print advertising dollars have dried up and the entire print media industry has consolidated and downsized.

Many communities in the state now suffer from a lack of press coverage of local news, undermining public accountability. To so rapidly remove such a large source of advertising revenue as estate notices without considering the impact on the future of local media in Maryland could have severe consequences, he wrote.

Even so, the governor said changes and technology and cost savings for local governments and families should not be ignored. Moore said lawmakers were not given the opportunity to balance these two significant public interests.

Supporters said the bill would have saved estates and families money.

Moore agreed. In his veto letter, he said existing print public notice requirements do present a financial burden on local and state governments as well as individual citizens. This is the challenge that Delegate Embry was seeking to address.

Moore wrote that the costs to estates are an important concern and one that should be dealt with.

Moore vetoes three other bills

Senate Bill 60 would have authorized out-of-state dealers to temporarily display motor homes, recreational vehicles and trailers at shows around the state. The out-of-state dealers could not take orders nor accept deposits under the measure.

The bill also would have required the Department of Commerce to conduct a study on the impact of out-of-state dealers at the Maryland RV show held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-Eastern Shore), lead sponsor of the bill, said the goal was to bolster local RV shows while protecting businesses licensed in the state.

Moore said he rejected the well-intentioned bill to protect Maryland jobs.

Marylands recreational vehicle industry is made up of small businesses who employ a total of more than 300 employees statewide, Moore wrote. As with many of the small businesses that propel our economy and further opportunities for families in the state, a consistent and reliable marketplace is crucial. Senate Bill 60, as passed, creates a significant and temporary shift in the marketplace for RV dealers with unknown impacts.

Senate Bill 380 would have created a 21-member workgroup to examine efforts to recruit and retain police officers around the state. Moore vetoed the bill saying it duplicated other efforts.

It is not necessary to create two workgroups designed to address the same problem, he wrote.

Senate Bill 693 was identical to a House bill Moore signed May 9 , authorizing Carroll County government to borrow $28.9 million through bonds for projects within the county. The governor vetoed the Senate version saying, enactment of duplicate bond bills would double authorized debt.

Audiologist bill becomes law, needs more work

Moore, as expected, allowed identical bills  HB 464 and SB 795  to become law without his signature.

The bills allow licensed audiologists to diagnose and treat auditory conditions; sell, dispense, and fit hearing aids and external portions of cochlear implant devices; perform ear cleaning; and order blood work and tests as it relates to auditory conditions.

MedChi, the Maryland State Medical Society, opposed the bill that it said vastly expanded the work of audiologists.

I acknowledge and commend the General Assembly, particularly the Finance and Health and Government Operations Committees for their work with advocates to authorize audiologists to practice to the full extent of their training and provide appropriate access to care for Marylanders, Moore wrote. However, discussions with proponents and opponents of the bill have made clear that the statute will require further clarification.

Moore, in his letter, recommended proponents and opponents collaborate on revisiting these statutes during the interim to ensure that the differences between audiology and otolaryngology are made more clear.

MedChi CEO Gene Ransom said Friday that his organization is obviously is pleased that Gov. Moore addressed the desire to fix the problem that we identified. Were looking forward to working with the administration and the General Assembly to make the bill workable.

The post Moore vetoes four bills, lets audiologist bill become law without his signature appeared first on Maryland Matters.
Nicholas Kernan and wife Melody Kernan in a family photo. It's been a year since Kernan was shot and killed while working in Cincinnati's Corryville neighborhood and no suspects have been arrested.

Nicholas Kernan was fatally shot in broad daylight while working in Cincinnati's Corryville neighborhood just over one year ago and his family is still left to wonder why.

Melody Kernan said that since her husband's death, the world has become a scarier place for her and her family. If something like this could happen to him, his loved ones say, then it can happen to anyone.

"Everybody has become more aware, more on edge, you know, more cautious," she said.

Thursday marked one year since Kernan was gunned down in a seemingly random act of violence. The 43-year-old was found shot in the 2900 block of Bellevue Avenue on the afternoon of May 23, 2023, and he was rushed to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center where he died of his injuries, according to Cincinnati police.

Kernan was an avid Beatles fan who loved playing the bass guitar, dirt track racing and Christmastime, according to his family. He proposed to his wife on the observation deck of Carew Tower, his favorite Downtown landmark.

Nicholas Kernan was an avid Beatles fan, according to his family. The 43-year-old was shot and killed while working in Corryville just over a year ago.

"It's just been so hard to try to figure out how to build a life without half of me," Melody Kernan said, adding their anniversary was on April 25.

Kernan was on the job with Uptown Rental Properties  where he had worked as a field technician since March 2022  when the shooter approached him, Dan Schimberg, the company's president and CEO, previously told The Enquirer.

During their update on the case to local news media in June 2023, police said they had yet to determine whether the shooting was targeted or random.

Investigators previously released footage of a possible person of interest walking and running through the Corryville area on the day of the shooting. The man was wearing an olive-colored hoodie, a black face mask and shorts. It remains unclear if investigators ever made contact with him.

An image of a possible person of interest in the May 23, 2023, fatal shooting of Nicholas Kernan. Thursday marked one year since Kernan was gunned down in broad daylight.

When asked Thursday whether police could give any updates about the investigation, Lt. Jonathan Cunningham said the department doesn't have any new information to share.

Cunningham urged anyone with information or who witnessed Kernan's killing to contact the Cincinnati Police Department's homicide unit at 513-352-3542 or CrimeStoppers at 513-352-3040.

While Melody Kernan has remained in touch with investigators over the past year, she says she's heard conflicting stories and the police haven't shared information if they've learned anything new.

While Uptown Rental Properties previously said the shooting was the result of an attempted robbery, the police told his wife that it may have stemmed from a gang initiation ritual.

"They've given me more questions than answers," she said. "I don't have a clue what to believe right now."

Melody Kernan holds on to her daughter, Katie Duncan as she reads a statement about her stepfather, Nicholas Kernan, 43, who was found shot while working in Corryville.

She doesn't know who killed her husband or why, but until the truth comes out, Melody Kernan doesn't believe anyone should be cleared of suspicion.

While she understands that people might be afraid to come forward with information, she said they should do the right thing and speak up.

"Somebody knows something, you know, and they just haven't come forward," she said.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Nicholas Kernan shooting: Family still without answers a year later
DENVER (KDVR)  A new traffic camera in Morrison is starting to quantify just how often drivers disobey speed limits in the foothills community.

In just two weeks, the camera recorded 10,000 violations.

Morrison Police Chief Bill Vinelli told FOX31 that the camera was installed in March, but drivers got a two-month grace period of warnings. When it went live on May 8, the violations started mounting up.

Vinelli said the 10,000 violations from May 8-22 does not necessarily mean 10,000 citations will be issued. Each violation has to be reviewed and certified by the cameras third-party vendor and a Morrison police officer.

Fall colors line Bear Creek and the scenic highway into Morrison, Colorado

While Vinelli said the high number was surprising, he pointed out that Morrison can get 10,000 cars traveling through for a single event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. There are 25 mph speed limit signs throughout town, so Vinelli said his hope is drivers check their speed before passing the speed camera on the way out of town.

Violators face a fine of $40.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) thinks every American flag should be flipped upside-down, actually.

The Georgia congresswoman claimed as much in a social media rant she posted on Wednesday in which she defended Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, but only after simultaneously excoriating Democrats, praising Donald Trump, and falsely accusing the FBI of trying to kill the former president.

With all those plates spinning, Greene punctuated her indignant screed by accusing Democratic lawmakers of going after Justice Alito for an upside down flag being flown at his house.

She added, WE SHOULD ALL BE FLYING THE FLAG UPSIDE DOWN.

I posted this on the day the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago after Merrick Garland ordered it and gave the green light to kill anyone that stood in the way.



The FBI stole Pres Trumps passport, financial records, and medical records along with confiscating documents that NARA had pic.twitter.com/SoszEi0SXk  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) May 22, 2024

Alito has attracted scrutiny in the wake of a recent New York Times report showing that an upside-down flag was flown outside his Virginia home in 2021. The justice has said his wife briefly flew the flag outside their house as part of a neighborhood dispute over political yard signs.

Greene reminded her followers on Wednesday that she is no stranger to the symbol, which is strongly associated with the pro-Trump Stop the Steal movement. Her rant was accompanied by a screenshot of an Aug. 8, 2022 tweet of hers in which she wordlessly posted the inverted flag.

I posted this on the day the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago, she explained in her post, after Merrick Garland ordered it and gave the green light to kill anyone that stood in the way.

The claim about the U.S. attorney general was a rehash of a conspiracy theory that has surfaced in right-wing circles since the recent unsealing of an FBI operations order related to the Mar-a-Lago search in which the phrase deadly force is used. The language, standard for the agency, was seized on by Trump and his allies.

On Truth Social, the former president posted that Crooked Joe Bidens DOJ, in their illegal and UnConstitutional Raid of Mar-a-Lago, AUTHORIZED THE FBI TO USE DEADLY (LETHAL) FORCE. A campaign fundraising email subsequently sent to his supporters was subject-lined They were authorized to shoot me! and claimed that Trump had nearly escaped death.

Joe Biden was locked & loaded ready to take me out & put my family in danger, the email added, according to the Associated Press.

Greene eagerly jumped in, tweeting soon after that the Biden DOJ and FBI were planning to assassinate Pres Trump and gave the green light.

On Wednesday, Greene added that federal agents had also stolen Trumps passport, financial records, and medical records. (A source told CBS News the week after the raid that passports belonging to Trump had been confiscated, but had quickly been returned to the former president.) She also falsely claimed that the FBI had staged the scene for special counsel Jack Smith, whose office is prosecuting Trump on charges of mishandling classified material and obstructing the governments attempts to retrieve it.

Democrats declared war on us and weaponized the full power of the justice system the minute they took power, Greene insisted.

Top Democrats and even a few leading Republicans have criticized Alito for the flag incident, with calls for him to recuse himself from cases related to the Capitol attacks of Jan. 6, 2021 only intensifying after a second report linking him to another far-right flag was published by the Times.

What we are seeing here is an extraordinary breach of not just the trust and the stature of the Supreme Court, but we are seeing a fundamental challenge to our democracy, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) said on MSNBC this week. She called for Senate Democrats to launch an investigation into the matter.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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On the night a Boise man was shot at a Vista neighborhood house, Jed Earls showed off the gun he had tucked into his waistband and worried that he would do something stupid with it, according to a friends testimony at his recently concluded trial.

Earls did do something with that gun. He pointed it at the chest of 22-year-old James Matt Cuellar and pulled the trigger. The defense said it was the first time hed ever hit his target.

The jury in Earls murder trial had to decide over the course of a 12-day proceeding whether that gun was fired by an overly intoxicated antagonist or a scared man in self-defense. It returned a guilty verdict Thursday afternoon, finding Earls culpable for second-degree murder and an enhancement for using a deadly weapon to commit a felony.

James Matt Cuellar, died early Friday at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center after he was shot Jan. 15 in Vista.

Earls sentencing is scheduled for July 29, and he could receive up to life in prison for what prosecutors said was a case of bullying run amok.

Boise police arrested Earls after responding to a 4:10 a.m. call on Jan. 15, 2022, in the 2100 block of South Owyhee Street. The jury learned during trial that Cuellar and several friends went to Earls home following a friends birthday party at a hotel. Most of them, including Cuellar, had not previously met Earls, according to the prosecution.

Prosecutors said Earls, now 34, bullied Cuellar and repeatedly antagonized him throughout the night. Witnesses testified that Earls mocked the appearance and speech impediment of Cuellar, who was born with a rare genetic disorder called Pierre Robin syndrome.

We think about bullying happening in like elementary and middle school drama, but it goes a lot deeper than that, Maribel Garcia, Cuellars sister, previously told the Idaho Statesman. Were talking about two grown men here. People just need to do better.

Family members testified that Cuellar was used to these types of comments and had adopted a strategy of confronting people with his words. Some testified that Cuellar had lectured Earls in response.

Those at the party also testified that Earls kept slapping Cuellar on the butt and shoulder, trying to provoke him. Earls, who was described as heavily intoxicated, was angry at people for drinking his alcohol, and at one point, Cuellar stood up to him after Earls made uncomfortable comments to the only woman in the house, according to testimony.

Tension grew throughout the night, according to the prosecution. When the remaining guests left to pick up food, Cuellar and Earls were left alone at the house together.

Prosecutors and police said they believe the two men got into an argument over a case of beer. Police found a torn box of beer on the floor, with all cans unopened, evidence photos showed. Prosecutors speculated that Cuellar might have tried to take the beer and leave.

The defense denied this version of events.

Matt did not die over beer, Earls defense attorney said. The beer was just what precipitated things.

The defense made the claim that Cuellar became violent after everyone left, and Earls shot him in self-defense.

I kept telling him to get out of my house, Earls said in his 911 phone call after the shooting. He kept pushing and pulling, tried to hit me. I grabbed my gun and just pulled the trigger.

Prosecutors pointed out that many people testified that Cuellar was not a violent person. His grandmother said he was not strong and had been looking for a job that was not labor intensive because he couldnt physically handle that kind of work.

The prosecution also told the jury that to be found innocent for acting in self-defense, the defense would have to prove that a reasonable, sober person would have believed they were in imminent danger of death or great bodily harm.

A person is not allowed to use excessive or unreasonable force, even in a scary situation, according to the prosecution.

You dont take a gun to a fistfight, the prosecuting attorney said during closing arguments.

The jury found Earls guilty after seven hours of deliberation. He was charged with second-degree murder rather than first because the crime was committed in the heat of the moment and not premeditated, according to the prosecution.

Thank you to the jury for their time and attentiveness during this trial, said Ada County Prosecutor Jan Bennetts said in a news release.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  A Mrytle Beach father and son were arrested after allegedly stealing from a vulnerable adult at an assisted living facility, the South Carolina Attorney Generals Office said.

Billy Joe Callahan, 56, and Matthew James Callahan, 33, both of Myrtle Beach were both charged with exploitation of a vulnerable adult and criminal conspiracy.

Billy Callahan was also charged with financial card fraud, and Matthew Callahan was charged with forgery. Both were booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center Thursday, according to the attorney generals office.

An investigation by the South Carolina Medicaid Fraud Control Unit revealed that between February 5, 2020, and December 24, 2020, Billy and Matthew Callahan conspired together to make unlawful and unauthorized use of the funds and assets of a vulnerable adult, the attorney generals office said.

Billy Callahan is alleged to have obtained and used the victims debit card to obtain money, goods, or services without the consent or permission of the owner.

Matthew Callahan is alleged to have cashed forged checks from the victims bank account. The victim, a vulnerable adult under South Carolina law, spent time residing at NHC Healthcare and Veterans Victory House, both assisted living facilities, during the time of the alleged misconduct, the attorney generals office said.

This case was referred to the South Carolina Medicaid Fraud Control Unit by the South Carolina Department of Mental Health and will be prosecuted by the Attorney Generals Office.

* * *

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.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
File. Police officers stand guard along a road on the outskirts of Kolkata on 12 July 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

A member of parliament from Bangladesh who travelled to India for medical treatment has been found murdered.

Anwarul Azim Anar, a member of the ruling Awami League in Bangladesh, was reported missing by a friend a day after he travelled to Indias eastern state of West Bengal on 12 May.

Bangladeshs home minister Asaduzzaman Khan confirmed the MPs death and said that three arrests had been made, citing the Indian police.

The information we have so far is that the people of our country are involved in the killing, the minister said while speaking at a press briefing in Dhaka, according to the Indian state-sponsored DD News.

Mr Khan said: We have been working to arrest a few more people. This is a murder Nothing happened here that would lead to deterioration in relations with India since no Indian is involved with the incident. According to the information we have received so far, some people from our country are involved in this murder.

Anar represented the Jhenaidah constituency in Bangladesh.

According to India Today, which quoted anonymous sources in West Bengals Crime Investigation Department, Anars body was brutally dismembered before being disposed of across the city, but this has not been confirmed publicly by police officials.

The News18 channel reported that a suspect named Jihad Hawladar, a resident of Khulna district in Bangladesh who had illegally entered India and was staying in Mumbai, had been arrested.

Investigation indicated that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap laid by a woman who was also close to the victims friend, the Press Trust of India quoted an official as saying. It seems, Anar was lured into the New Town flat [in Kolkatta] by the woman. We suspect he was murdered soon after he went to the flat.

The late MPs family members are preparing to travel to Kolkata for further formalities, according to Livemint, and their visa process is currently underway.

The West Bengal government has received a letter from Indias ministry of external affairs urging the state government to investigate the murder.

Mystery deepens as Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar is found murdered and dismembered. Screengrab (NDTV / YouTube)

A Special Investigation Team [SIT] has also reportedly been formed to investigate the case.

The MPs family friend, Gopal Viswas, filed a complaint at the Baranagar police station in Bidhannagar in West Bengal after the MPs daughter reported being unable to contact her father.

Akhilesh Kumar Chaturvedi, CID Inspector General was quoted as saying by ANI: We had no prior intimation of the Bangladeshi MPs arrival to this city. We came to know about him after his acquaintance in Kolkata, Gopal Biswas, filed a missing diary [report] on 18 May.

We were in the middle of that investigation when, on 20 May, we received an intimation from the Ministry of External Affairs and today an input that makes us suspect that the victim may have been murdered, he said.

The motive for the killing is still unknown.

VIDEO | Police recover CCTV visuals from the apartment in #Kolkata where #Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar was last seen with his friend.



The initial probe into the murder of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar revealed that one of his friends had paid around Rs 5 crore to kill the pic.twitter.com/Dnix44WHLf  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 24, 2024

Jhenaidah is a [India] bordering area known for its high crime rate. Azim [Anar] was the local lawmaker there. The incident took place after he went to India for treatment. According to what we currently know, he was killed there, the Bangladesh home minister said at his press briefing earlier.

We suspect that after killing Anar, the murderers mutilated the body, segregated the flesh from the bones and mixed those with turmeric powder to delay decomposition, a West Bengal CID officer was quoted as saying by FirstPost.

The body parts were probably put inside plastic bags and scattered at different locations. We also suspect that some parts were kept in a refrigerator and we have collected samples, the officer said, adding a wider search for more body parts was underway.

#WATCH | West Bengal Police CID team conducts a search operation in the Bhangar area, in connection with the murder case of Bangladeshi MP Anwarul Azim Anar.



More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/OPIdBit222  ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2024

Meanwhile, the ruling BJP has accused the state government of hiding a can of worms and taken this opportunity to criticise a high-profile opposition figure, West Bengals chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

This isnt the first such brutal killing in West Bengal. Investigation into the murder will open a can of worms, involving powerful people in the WB [West Bengal] Govt, Amit Malviya, a senior BJP leader wrote on X, without providing evidence.
THE HAGUE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday ordered Israel to stop its military offensive in Rafah, with immediate effect.

"The situation has deteriorated since the last rulings on January 26 and March 28," Judge Nawaf Salam, president of the court, stated at the Peace Palace in The Hague. "The humanitarian situation is now disastrous."

In addition, the court demanded that Israel allow fact finders and investigators of United Nations bodies to investigate allegations of genocide and preserve possible evidence.

The judges added that Israel must submit a report to the court on all measures to implement the court's order within one month.

On May 10, South Africa requested the ICJ to deliver a ruling on the modification and the indication of provisional measures against Israel concerning the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip.

It is not the first ruling in the case initiated by South Africa to the ICJ on Dec. 29, 2023. The judges ordered Israel on Jan. 26 to take all measures within its power to prevent genocide, to ensure that its military does not commit genocide, to halt incitement against Palestinians as a group, to preserve evidence, and to take immediate measures to ensure humanitarian aid.

After that, South Africa made subsequent requests in February and March 2024 for additional provisional measures. As a result, the ICJ ordered Israel on March 28 to do whatever is necessary to ensure that basic aid reaches the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip.

"After weeks of bombardments on Rafah, 100,000 Palestinians were already ordered to evacuate on May 6," Salam said in the Friday ruling. "The military operations are still ongoing and led to new evacuations. As a result, nearly 800,000 people were evacuated on May 18."

"In the view of the court, the March 28 order does not fully address the change in the situation. So a modification of measures is justified," said Salam in the latest ruling on Friday.

On May 16 and May 17, the court held public hearings in the current case, with both parties having their chance to make their point.

South Africa's Ambassador to the Netherlands Vusimuzi Madonsela told the judges that his country had returned to the court "due to the continuing annihilation of the Palestinian people, with over 35,000 now killed, and most of Gaza reduced to rubble."

However, Israeli Justice Ministry official Gilad Noam told the judges that Israel has been involved in a "tragic war" to defend itself and denied South Africa's "allegations regarding genocide." 
Gizo Uglava, the first deputy director of Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), was suspended amid an ongoing investigation into a possible leak from the bureau, NABU said on May 24.

Uglava was suspended at the order of NABU's director, which was based on a statement about a possible conflict of interests to "ensure an objective pre-trial investigation."

Prosecutors said they had opened a case into abuse of power and an alleged leak of investigative information by a NABU detective, whose house was searched on May 22.

Uglava is also under investigation in the leak case, a law enforcement source told the Kyiv Independent.

The leak was connected to a corruption case centered around the government's "Big Construction" project, the source said. The project is focused on infrastructure development and has been heavily promoted by President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration in public relations campaigns.

Yury Holyk, an influential businessman, allegedly oversaw an embezzlement scheme in the government's major construction projects, after which his firm obtained significant revenue, according to an investigation by the Bihus.info investigative journalism project published last October.

The leaks led to the loss of most of the evidence in the case, prompting criticism from anti-corruption activists and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) opening an investigation into the incident.

Uglava, a 48-year-old native of Kutaisi in Georgia, began his career as a prosecutor in his home country and was a member of former Prime Minister and President Mikheil Saakashvili's team.

He moved to Ukraine in 2014, receiving Ukrainian citizenship and the appointment as NABU's first deputy director a year later.

Read also: Ukrainian prosecutors search detectives house over alleged leak in top corruption case

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
(KRON)  Due to mechanical issues, the Mare Island Causeway Bridge in Vallejo is unable to raise and lower itself to permit boat traffic, halting traffic on the Napa River.

Vallejos public works team, along with consultants and regional and state experts, said they have identified the issue and are working expeditiously on repairs, the City Of Vallejos Public Information Officer said in a statement. As of this report, officials estimate repairs to be completed by May 31.

Aquarium of the Bay fails to meet AZA standards, loses accreditation

We faced a decision to keep the bridge either elevated or lowered, said City Manager Andrew Murray. Given that the safety of our residents is our top priority, we chose to keep the bridge in the lowered position to ensure our emergency vehicles can pass without delay in the event of an emergency.

The US Coast guard has also been informed of the temporary issue, Murray said.

For those traveling to BottleRock this weekend, city planners recommend using the San Francisco Bay Ferry and the connector, Vine Transit Bus, both located at the Vallejo Ferry Terminal. Vine Transit services are free for BottleRock attendees and will operate later in the evening to accommodate concert-goers.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
A red orb toward the top left of the screen and an Earth-looking world toward the bottom right.

Scientists using a NASA space telescope have discovered a tantalizing world. It's about the size of Earth, sits remarkably close to our solar system, and could be comfortable for life as we know it.

The extrasolar planet, or "exoplanet," named Gliese 12 b, orbits a small and cool red dwarf star located just around 40 light-years from Earth in the constellation Pisces. The exoplanet  which the team found with NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS)  is estimated to have a width around 1.1 times that of Earth, making it similar to our planet as well as Venus, which is often called our world's solar system "twin."

Gliese 12 b orbits its star, Gliese 12, so closely that its year lasts just 12.8 Earth days. However, because the red dwarf Gliese 12 is just around a quarter of the size of the sun, it is also much cooler than our star. This means that, even though Gliese 12 b is at a distance from its red dwarf parent equivalent to just 7% of the distance between the sun and Earth, it still is in its planetary system's habitable zone. Also known as the "Goldilocks Zone," the habitable zone is the region around a star that is neither too hot nor too cold for planets to host liquid water, a vital ingredient for life as we know it. Though, importantly, the two teams behind the discovery of Gliese 12 b can't yet say for sure if it has an atmosphere. It therefore remains unclear if the world could be habitable, but the researchers have some cautious optimism.

Related: Young 'cotton candy' exoplanet the size of Jupiter may be shrinking into a super-Earth

"The majorly interesting thing is that this is a planet that's really nearby; in fact, it's one of the closest transiting planets to Earth," University College of London scientist Larissa Palethorpe, who co-led the research with University of Southern Queensland astrophysicist Shishir Dholakia, told Space.com. "It's either in the habitable zone of its star or it is right on the edge of it  so, it could be habitable."

If Earth and Venus had a child

Scientists spotted Gliese 12 b as it crossed, or "transited," the face of its parent red dwarf star. These transits cause tiny dips in light that TESS is adept at spotting. Palethorpe added that, when the team went into this project, they didn't know what the orbital period or the size of the planet would be for sure.

"To find it to be such a similar size to Earth was kind of a lovely surprise," she continued. "So that was a really nice thing to be able to nail down, but I think especially knowing that, in terms of habitability, it could lie between Earth and Venus, is really exciting."

Gliese 12 b receives around 85% of the radiation that Venus gets from the sun, but is thought to have a much cooler surface temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) compared to Venus' surface temperature of 867 degrees Fahrenheit (464 degrees Celsius).

Though Earth and Venus are both in the sun's habitable zone, one can support life and has a favorable atmosphere, while the other is an inhospitable hellscape with temperatures hot enough to melt lead. Studying Gliese 12 b could help us understand why this is the case.

"Gliese 12 b could teach us a lot about how our own solar system has developed as well," Palethorpe added.

On the left is an illustration of Earth and on the right is an illustration of Gliese 12 b, in three different sizes. All three are super close to the size of Earth in this image.

The team will now investigate whether Gliese has an atmosphere  but early indications are that, if it does, that atmosphere would be relatively thin. Perhaps surprisingly, however, the lack of a thick atmosphere is good news for the planet's habitability prospects.

"We know some planets have very thick atmospheres of hydrogen that cover the entire planet. This very thick gas layer is actually bad news for habitability," Palethorpe's fellow UCL researcher, Vincent Van Eylen, told Space.com. "Usually, these planets are two or three times the size of Earth. Gliese 12 b is the actual size of Earth, so it probably doesn't have this very thick atmosphere.

"It could either have no atmosphere, which would not be great for habitability, or it would have this sort of thin atmosphere, kind of like the Earth's."

Still, even if Gliese 12 b does not have an atmosphere, it could still be an important test subject for advancing our search for life elsewhere in the Milky Way. That's because, as a red dwarf, the star it orbits happens to be the most common form of star in our galaxy  yet one we know relatively little about when it comes to red dwarf planetary systems.

Life around red dwarfs

In the Milky Way, red dwarfs comprise the largest family of stars that are still fusing hydrogen to helium in their cores, a process that defines the so-called "main sequence" lifetime of a star. It is estimated that 60% to 70% of the stars in our galaxy are red dwarfs like Gliese 12, and of the 30 stars closest to Earth, at least 20 are red dwarfs.

"It's interesting to know about planets around the small stars, what they might be like, and whether such planets could have life," Van Eylen added.

Officially known as K-type or M-type stars, red dwarfs have between 7.5% and 50% of the mass of the sun. This low mass, relative to the sun, means such stars burn at a lower temperature, reaching only 6,380 degrees Fahrenheit (3,500 degrees Celsius) compared to the 9,900 degrees Fahrenheit (5,500 degrees Celsius) temperature of our star. For instance, Gliese 12 has a surface temperature around 60% that of the sun.

This lower temperature means that dimly shining red dwarfs can exist as main sequence stars for much longer than moderately massive stars like the sun can. Though the sun is expected to live for around 10 billion years, red dwarfs are predicted to have lifetimes tens, or even hundreds, of times this period. Sometimes, that figure can extend to trillions of years. What this means is life would have more time to develop on planets orbiting red dwarfs than it would on planets around larger main-sequence stars.

But, it isn't all good news for the prospects of life on red-dwarf-orbiting exoplanets.

a small planet beside a violent star

Though they are cooler than the sun in their stellar adulthood, red dwarfs are believed to be much wilder than our star. This class of star is believed to be highly magnetically active, blasting out frequent and powerful flares of high-energy light in the form of X-rays. These X-rays can violently strip the atmosphere of a planet close to a red dwarf.

Additionally, recent research has suggested that even red dwarfs that remain placid for many years can suddenly erupt with superflares 100 to 1,000 times more powerful than the sun's solar flares. These eruptions are more common in the youth of this stellar class and are also capable of stripping atmospheres and boiling away liquid water, even in habitable zones.

At the moment, though, both teams involved in the discovery of Gliese 12 b think the red dwarf in orbit is relatively calm, which could be good news for the exoplanet's chance of possessing an atmosphere.

Red dwarf exoplanets are good TESS targets

The fact that red dwarfs are cooler than stars like the sun and thus their habitable zones are closer to the stars actually makes detecting exoplanets around them a little easier for TESS and its transit method of planet-hunting.

"We have biases towards detecting planets that are close to their host stars essentially, just because they transit more often. When we find planets orbiting red dwarfs because they're smaller stars, the dimming of the transit is bigger," Palethorpe said. "Because red dwarfs are slightly cooler, the habitable zone lies closer to the star than it would for our kind of sun, which means we're more likely to detect planets in the habitable zone with TESS."

An illustration shows NASA exoplanet hunter TESS and a rogue planet

The team will have to turn to other instruments than TESS to investigate this planet further. They will also switch to a different method of exoplanet detection to better define the characteristics of Gliese 12 b. One is called the "radial velocity method," which utilizes the tiny wobbles planets cause in the motion of their stars as they gravitationally tug on those stars.

"I think next really is to nail down the mass of the planet. We are already actively doing that as part of the High Accuracy Radial velocity Planet Searcher for the Northern hemisphere (Harps North) team, which is a radial velocity telescope," Palethorpe said. "Then we've also got another proposal accepted with the European Organization for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere (ESPRESSO), which is another radial velocity telescope. And so, hopefully, from kind of the radial velocity observations, we will do this."

Palethorpe and Van Eylen also hope to be granted time with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to further investigate the planet's atmosphere. This is possible because as Gliese 12 b transits the face of its star, light passing through its atmosphere will carry the characteristic fingerprints of elements in the atmosphere.

This process is called "transmission spectroscopy," and Gliese 12 b is only one of a handful of temperate Earth-like worlds that are close enough to be examined in this way.

The entire Trappist-1 system would fit within the orbit of the solar system's innermost planet Mercury.

The JWST is currently conducting a similar investigation for the seven Earth-like planets of the TRAPPIST-1 system, located around 40 light-years away. These planets resemble Gliese 12 b in that not only are many of them in the habitable zone of their star, but that star is also a small and cool red dwarf.

"I think with the JWST, we will get at least some clues about the atmosphere of this planet, which would be, I think, the most, the next most exciting thing to do, now that it's been discovered," Van Eylen said.

Related Stories:

 Cotton candy exoplanet is 2nd lightest planet ever found

 Earth-size planet discovered around cool red dwarf star shares its name with a biscuit

 Star blows giant exoplanet's atmosphere away, leaving massive tail in its wake

When it comes to the possibility of Gliese 12 b hosting life, the two scientists are extremely cautious. After all, it is early days for both our understanding of this world and methods that would be capable of detecting signs of life in an exoplanet atmosphere, even one so relatively close as Gliese 12 b.

"I think Gliese 12 b will teach us a lot about life, but we can't say anything for certain. I think it's very exciting, and we should definitely look forward to more research coming out about Gliese 12 b," Palethorpe concluded. "It's not a bad place to start on a hunt for life."

The two teams' research was published on Thursday (May 23) in The Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society and The Astrophysical Journal Letters.
COMMENTARY | In 2021, when the Florida Department of Transportation ordered officials in Jacksonville, Pinellas and Sarasota to shut off rainbow-themed lights on their local bridges that were intended to recognize Pride Month, people naturally looked to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who bears ultimate responsibility as Florida's chief executive and is hardly a self-professed champion of LGBTQ people.

And indeed, it's rather far-fetched that DOT officials across Florida had come to separate, spontaneous conclusions about Pride light displays that had until then been uncontroversial (In Jacksonville, the local transportation authority regularly and without complaint uses the dazzling light display on the state-owned Acosta Bridge to celebrate holidays, causes and Jaguars wins). But DeSantis' administration blew a gasket over any accusations that he was responsible, calling it an "outrageous conclusion" and "disinformation." DeSantis "wasn't involved in this bridge issue in any way," one of his spokespeople insisted at the time. It was a "conspiracy theory" to suggest otherwise.

DeSantis' DOT lamely explained at the time that there were unspecified "several complaints" about the display in Jacksonville that necessitated the strong-armed shut-down. But after the uproar, the lights ultimately went back up on the Acosta Bridge, a rare moment of retreat for the strident governor. And that was the status quo through 2022 and 2023.

Alas, the clock strikes 13 and new marching orders have arrived: No longer is it absurd to believe the governor would deign to interfere in the local display of some bridge lights. No, no, now it is a patriotic duty for the governor to do so. This summer, DeSantis' DOT has restricted the display of lights on state-owned bridges to the colors red, white and blue only, allegedly in observation of something the state is calling "Freedom Summer."

Apparently no longer a conspiracy theory, DeSantis' unseemly mouthpieces are now celebrating the governor's crackdown. "Red, White & Blue are the colors that unite all Americans," one of DeSantis' paid sycophants tweeted this week. "Thats why the media is so mad. They profit from dividing us."

The edict from DeSantis' DOT means the Jacksonville Transportation Authority can't light the bridges up to recognize Pride Month, or Juneteenth for that matter, or a host of other causes that were otherwise slated for this month. Nope, in the Free State of Florida we do what we are told. And we like it.

The diktat is of a piece with the DeSantis era: a centralization of power over matters important and picayune in Tallahassee. Cities, once widely considered laboratories of democracy, are now social-studies experiments for hayseed legislators and one very angry governor.

"It's a real slap in the face to multiple different communities, especially when people claim that it's a patriotic thing or that they care about freedom," Jacksonville City Council member Jimmy Peluso told my colleague David Bauerlein. "Juneteenth is the day we literally celebrate freedom so it's a fascinating way to spin something that truly is about attacking certain groups that some folks in our government don't seem to like."

Of course, in strong-arming cities into displaying certain colors and not others, DeSantis is committing the very sin he claims to be fighting against: virtue signaling to cancel out virtue signaling, ripping away autonomy in lieu of performative patriotism.

Back in 2021, DeSantis' goons were actually right about one thing: Interfering with pride light displays on local bridges is beneath him.

Nate Monroe is a metro columnist whose work regularly appears every Thursday and Sunday. Follow him on Twitter @NateMonroeTU.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Nate Monroe: DeSantis attacks Jacksonville Pride display again, masking cruelty with fake patriotism
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has had a telephone conversation with Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas in connection with Russia's provocative actions on the Narva River, which forms the Estonian-Russian border.

Source: Stoltenberg on Twitter as reported by European Pravda

Details: Stoltenberg said he had assured Kallas of NATO's solidarity with Estonia and support against any threats to the country's sovereignty.

Kaja Kallas has not yet reported the details of the conversation.

Spoke with PM @kajakallas.#NATO stands in solidarity with our Ally #Estonia against any threat to their sovereignty.  Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) May 24, 2024

Background:

Earlier this week, a draft law indicating Russia's plans to unilaterally change maritime borders with its neighbours in the Baltic Sea was spotted on the Russian government's website. The project has been removed from the website after it received publicity.

On 23 May, Estonia said that Russian border guards had removed buoys installed on the Estonian half of the Narva River.

Josep Borrell, European Union foreign policy chief, said that the EU expects an explanation for these actions from Russia, and demands that the buoys be immediately put back in place. A number of EU states issued separate statements expressing support for Estonia and condemning Russia's provocative actions.

Finland's prime minister suggested that Russia was testing NATO with its actions.

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A combined effort to combat illegal activity was underway Thursday on the citys west side.

Operation Unity brings multiple law enforcement divisions together and spans a 12-hour period. The goal is to reduce violent crime, address theft, mitigate drug-related offenses and enhance overall safety.

Law enforcement officials spent Thursday driving around Prairie and Franklin Township. Its also about addressing the publics concerns over the rise in stolen vehicles, shots fired calls and felonious assaults.

Unsolved Ohio: Suspect unknown three years after woman stabbed to death in Columbus

NBC4 spent the afternoon riding around with deputies. Officers said that this effort is so much more than catching a criminal  its also about helping those in need.

NBC4 witnessed four traffic stops. For one of them, Chief Deputy Jim Gilbert with the Franklin County Sheriffs Office said the driver is 19 and the passenger is 18. Both are facing multiple felony charges like improper handling of a firearm, tampering with evidence and drug possession.

This type of stop is exactly what were out here to try to address, getting illegal guns off the street, said Gilbert.

At another stop, officers said they came across at least a couple grams of fentanyl.

These people are riding around with fentanyl, whether they were going to use it for themselves or sell it to somebody else, its a dangerous substance. So weve got to get that off the street before somebody loses their life, said Chief Deputy Rick Minerd.

Robert Kent is a community member thats been involved with the police ever since his oldest son and two others were killed by a drunk driver. He said this operation is important for a number of reasons.

I think theres so much going on on the streets that by doing something like this, theyre able to get a lot of even drugs or offenders off the street. And it sends a message to the community that, you know, we want to be safe, Kent said.

Officers said that when they come in contact with someone who has drugs in their possession, resources are offered to them immediately to get them help, should they want it.

If we can get one person into treatment and turn their life around, then this was a success, Gilbert said.

NBC4 will update this article as soon as the official results of Operation Unity are released.

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NC crew rescues man after his yacht catches fire off Virginia coast

NORFOLK, Virginia (WNCN)  A North Carolina-based rescue helicopter rescued a man after he had to abandon his sailboat that caught on fire Thursday night in the Atlantic Ocean off the Virginia coast, officials said.

The incident was reported around 8:30 p.m. about 60 miles east of Chincoteague, Virginia, according to a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard.

The 58-year-old man had been aboard the 45-foot sailboat named the Trilogy, sailing from the Bahamas to New Jersey when the incident happened, the Coast Guard said.

An HC-130 Hercules airplane crew and an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew were sent from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City to rescue the man.

The 58-year-old man had been aboard the 45-foot sailboat named the Trilogy, sailing from the Bahamas to New Jersey when the incident happened, the Coast Guard said. US Coast Guard photo

The HC-130 Hercules crew arrived on the scene at 10:10 p.m. and spotted a dinghy with a person aboard.

The dinghy was near the Trilogy, which was on fire.

The MH-60 Jayhawk arrived at the scene at 10:50 p.m. and safely hoisted the victim aboard.

The man had no reported major injuries. He was flown to Norfolk Sentara Hospital in Virginia for further medical evaluation.

The HC-130 Hercules crew from Elizabeth City, North Carolina, arrived on the scene at 10:10 p.m. and spotted a dingy with a person aboard. US Coast Guard photo

The Coast Guard said the man took steps that helped him survive the fire and while he was in the dingy.

Officials said they were alerted to the fire and emergency by a 406-megahertz Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.

He  had an emersion suit, which he had put on prior to getting in the dinghy. This mariner also had filed a float plan with a family member, which the Coast Guard always recommends you do even for short day trips, the Coast Guard said.

All these actions and planning for a maritime emergency helped save his life.

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A scorching long holiday weekend is expected for the Orlando area  with temperatures forecast to reach into the upper 90s.

The heat wave  spurred in part by dry weather, which allows heat to build quicker  will be the latest in a string of above-average temperatures recorded this year, said meteorologist Kole Sehling with the National Weather Service in Melbourne.

It will be hot but its not what we havent seen already in May, Sehling said.

Most of the area will face major or extreme risks of heat-related impacts Saturday through Tuesday according to the Weather Services HeatRisk system.

HeatRisk is an experimental index that forecasts risks of heat-related impacts to occur over a 24-hour period. Its meant to provide guidance for decision-makers and heat-sensitive populations.

The index takes into consideration how unusual the heat is for the time of the year; duration of heat including both daytime and nighttime temperatures; and if those temperatures pose an elevated risk of heat-related impacts based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

NOAA predicts highest-ever number of named storms in 2024 preseason forecast

Over the next few days  theres not going to be much break, especially at night, Sehling said. The heat will be able to build up and create a higher-than-usual heat risk.

At the elevated index levels, the Weather Service says area health systems could see a spike in heat-related illnesses while heat-sensitive industries and infrastructure are likely to be impacted. Anyone without effective cooling or hydration could face heat exhaustion or potentially deadly heat stroke  which has symptoms including confusion, dizziness and unconsciousness and requires immediate medical attention.

Those most at risk from heat include the elderly, the very young, people with pre-existing conditions or medications that make them heat-sensitive, people who work or exercise outdoors and those new to the area and not acclimated to hot temperatures.

The Weather Service forecasts a high of 95 and a low of 74 in Orlando on Friday.

The heat wave will continue in Orlando with a high of 96 and a low of 75 on Saturday then peak with a high of 98 on Sunday  a full 10 degrees above the average high of 88 degrees for May  and a low of 74. The highest temperatures ever recorded at Orlando International Airport on these dates were 98 on Saturday, 99 on Sunday and 100 on Monday, according to Sehling.

Were forecasting just below to near-record highs, he said.

Temperatures are expected to stay near a high of 98 on Memorial Day. Taking into account humidity it will feel like triple-digits.

And dont look to the clouds for much relief. The weekend is expected to be mostly clear with the exception of Saturday  which has a 20% chance of rain and thunderstorms after 2 p.m.

The heat wave will continue through Tuesday with a high of 96. The Weather Services expects temperatures to fall back into the low 90s on Wednesday.

The highest May temperature ever recorded in Orlando was 102 degrees in 1945.

Ccatherman@orlandosentinel.com
ANKARA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- A total of 8,153 suspects were detained over the past 11 months across Turkiye over their alleged links to a network accused of orchestrating a coup attempt in 2016, a cabinet minister said Friday.

In a post on social media platform X, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said between June 1, 2023, and May 15, a total of 5,191 operations were performed.

Of those detained, 1,518 were arrested, and judicial control orders were issued for 1,751 others, he added.

In the latest series of police operations, a total of 45 suspects were detained across 18 provinces in the past four days, he said.

The suspects were allegedly linked to the Gulen movement, which the Turkish government accused of attempting the coup in 2016, claiming the lives of at least 250 people. The government also accuses the Gulen movement of infiltrating the state bureaucracy.

The Turkish government has launched a massive crackdown on suspects with links to the network in the aftermath of the coup attempt. 
Marine Corps Base Quantico sword detail members march in formation during a ceremony honoring the 248th Marine Corps birthday in Virginia, Nov. 7, 2023. (Courtesy of Marine Corps Cpl. Mitchell Johnson/Department of Defense)

LINCOLN  A national panel of senior military and criminal justice leaders is hailing Nebraska landmark legislation that they say could help restore justice-impacted veterans to hero status.

Nebraska state lawmakers voted 44-0 in April to approve Legislative Bill 253 and create new veteran justice programs statewide, beginning July 1, 2025. Such programs would include evidence-based treatment and case plans for eligible veterans that would specifically address military service-connected conditions that contributed to criminal offenses.

Former U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, chair of the Veterans Justice Commission of the Council on Criminal Justice, and a former U.S. senator from Nebraska, said hes proud Nebraska is the first state to adopt recommendations from the 15-member commission.

Im not surprised that Nebraska would be leading the way of all the states in this, Hagel said.

Nebraska leads the way in legislation

Hagel, who served in Vietnam, said he learned growing up how there was a World War II veteran in nearly every house in Nebraska and it was evident Nebraskans appreciated their veterans.

The commission has outlined state-level and federal recommendations, with Nebraska being the first state to adopt legislation based on the commissions policy framework. State Sens. Tom Brewer, Justin Wayne and Lou Ann Linehan ushered it through the Legislature this year.

Brewer, a military veteran of 36 years, led LB 253 alongside Wayne, chair of Nebraskas Judiciary Committee, and Linehan, a former campaign manager and chief of staff for Hagel in Congress.

Hagel said the legislation calls attention to an often overlooked issue: the transition from active duty to civilian life, a transition that more than 200,000 active-duty members make each year. Difficulties in making that shift have been exacerbated after the countrys two longest wars, in Afghanistan and Iraq, he added.

Because of an all-volunteer force, the same people kept going back and back and back, Hagel said. It wasnt unusual to find veterans who had four or five, six tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Brewer, who has two Purple Hearts, is one such veteran. His service included six tours in Afghanistan. Hes also made multiple volunteer trips to support Ukraine, including this month.

Brewer described the legislation as supporting combat-impacted veterans who have made mistakes but who should be treated with respect because of their service to the country.

Many times that exposure causes issues that they would not normally have in their lives, therefore thats why their treatment should be uniquely different, Brewer said in a text. But its not a free ride  if you wanna make mistakes and continue to make mistakes, you will have a harder life than others.

Civilian life a whole different world

Hagel said simply that the transition process is not good and noted that many service members enlist in their teens and get out 20 years later.

We could derail a lot of these veterans from getting in trouble with the law or going to jail if we had that upfront transitioning help, Hagel said.

His commission has aimed to replicate the veteran justice program in other states and aimed higher for congressional and federal action, with Hagel tapping into connections with former U.S. Senate colleagues and federal leaders.

One goal is a U.S. Department of Defense undersecretary whose job would be easing the process of transitioning from military service to civilian life.

One day youre in a uniform and youve had your years and years of being in an institution where theres structure that you worked hard in, that you admire and you respect, Hagel said. And all of a sudden, youre out  its a whole different world.

According to the Council on Criminal Justice, roughly one in three veterans report being arrested or booked in jail at least once. The suicide rate for veterans is approximately 1.5 times higher than the rate among the general population and even higher for veterans after incarceration.

Under Nebraskas legislation, all criminal courts  not just specialized courts, which have been established in four of Nebraskas 93 counties  could consider whether there is clear and convincing evidence that a condition related to military service contributed to a criminal offense.

Returning to hero status

In 1997, Nebraska approved problem-solving courts and expanded them in 2016 to include Veterans Treatment Courts. These are 18- to 24-month intervention programs similar to the new policies advanced this year.

Across the country, 14% of counties operate similar, specialized veterans courts, though eligibility requirements exclude many veterans.

The Veterans Justice Commission wanted an alternative to complement Veterans Treatment Courts, and thats what this model policy does, Jim Seward, commission director, said.

Seward said Nebraska has more than 200 veterans in its correctional system. He said its hard to say how many fewer would still be sitting in prison had the new law been in place sooner.

But I would venture to guess somewhere in the neighborhood of half of them would have been considered for this more intensive, evidence-based treatment program, Seward said.

Seward said every criminal judge in Nebraska, from Alliance or Scottsbluff to Nebraska City, could recognize a defendants veteran status and determine whether there is a connection to the alleged crime.

If the judge decides that it is, they have this opportunity to build a therapeutic treatment plan for the individual, partnering with the VA and vet centers and all the resources that that brings to bear  to really try and help that veteran get back to what we like to say, hero status, Seward said.

They came home a hero  something went wrong, Seward continued.

Minnesota passed similar legislation a few years ago, Seward said, but before the Veterans Justice Commission developed the policy framework.

Program parameters

Under the Nebraska bill, veterans are not eligible if their alleged offense is ineligible for probation, or in other select circumstances, such as if someone died as a result of the alleged crime or if the offense would qualify someone for the Sex Offender Registry.

If necessary for public safety, a veteran might still receive a prison sentence.

If eligible, a veterans case plan would be developed with court probation and appropriate experts and would:

Include input from the veteran.

Assess specific risks and needs, including whether there is a risk of intimate partner violence.

Set clear and individualized goals, such as rules, consequences and incentives.

Veteran service status could be used as a mitigating factor but not an aggravating one in determining a sentence. Victims or alleged victims would need to be notified of program eligibility and could request to be part of the veterans restorative program.

Nebraskas state court administrator will record how many veterans receive, decline or are denied participation in the program and will track the outcomes of those who are approved.

An annual report will be issued to the Judiciary Committee beginning July 1, 2026, regarding program completion, recidivism and housing and employment status per veteran. The data will include race, ethnicity, age, military discharge characterization and the involved offense.

Great example for the country

Seward and Hagel said the country does a good job in supporting veterans with visible wounds  such as amputations  but not as much in supporting invisible wounds, such as post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, which could trigger veterans turning to substances to cope.

We train them to be part of the most lethal force in the world, and when they come home, many of them struggle to just turn off that switch, Seward said.

Seward said the commission has continued to work with various organizations, including the national associations for governors, state legislatures, district attorneys and defense attorneys, as well as various state supreme court chief justices.

Its really, obviously, a first step, but this is how momentum begins and how change begins, Seward said.

Hagel said he took note of some of the transition challenges during his time as defense secretary for former President Barack Obama and talked with the joint chiefs about the need to do better.

He said Nebraskans should be proud that state lawmakers projected the state into a real leadership role when it comes to taking care of our veterans, which can be a model for others.

At least 10 states are in active talks with the commission, Seward said, and many are lining up policy champions to step up, a title he bestowed upon Linehan, Brewer and Wayne.

Its a huge effort to try to pass a law in 50 states, but you have to begin somewhere, Seward said. Starting in Nebraska, starting in the center of the nation, starting in a state that is, I think, well-known for reasonable politics that are not hyperpartisan, I think its a great example for the country.

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The post Nebraska leads with new veteran justice program, aiming to steer veterans back to hero status appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
COOLBAUGH TOWNSHIP, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  There are new developments in an ongoing investigation of shots fired outside an Airbnb.

People who live near the rental house say theyre scared and concerned.

Pocono Mountain Regional Police say Yervison Zapata-Zul, Luis Viera-Aguilar, and Hendrick Morales, all from Venezuela are facing various charges.

Yervison Yohan Zapata-Zul and Luis Viera-Aguilar

Police were called for suspicious activity near a rental home on Warrick Circle in Coolbaugh Township.

It started on Monday when police say they found Morales intoxicated, claiming he was threatened and chased from the home during a party.

The next day, they say Aguilar was blocking traffic, claiming he too was being chased and shot at from the same home.

Wednesday morning, as the guests were leaving, shots were fired. Several of them took off in a car and crashed into a nearby tree. The others ran off.

Police are still trying to figure out who fired the shots.

That dangerous shooting at a rental property in the Poconos is just one of the many ongoing issues in the area and neighbors say theyre very concerned that the violence is hitting too close to home.

28/22 News reporter, Emily Allegrucci, spoke with people living in the Monroe County community about how these rentals are changing their way of living.

Following a triple arrest after shots rang out in Coolbaugh Township Wednesday, neighbors are speaking up about the issues that some rental properties have brought to their neighborhoods.

Police on scene in Dunmore after reported gunshots

I lived in New York all my life; I never had a problem like this. Never. This is worse than New York, said Coolbaugh Township resident Karen.

Thats how some residents in Coolbaugh Township feel after dealing with the aftermath of their neighbors giving way to short-term renters.

Karen lives just across the road from where police say gunfire broke out at an Airbnb property Wednesday, resulting in the three arrests.

You gotta worry. Bad enough you gotta worry about animals attacking you. Now you gotta worry about people going after you with guns? You know, sometimes I do take my gun out with me, Karen explained.

Karen says she has a problem rental property next door to her home and says shes called the police dozens of times to report problems.

Weve been here and most of the people have been here for over 20 years. I mean were not having it this year again, with the cops, with the noise. Three, four, five oclock in the morning. Ridiculous, Karen continued.

Coolbaugh Township locals say theyve taken up the issue with the township and local police, but still havent had any relief from the noise, garbage, and dangers of living next to strangers.

The township says to call the cops, right? The cops come and say our hands are tied, call the township. So, its back and forth. I mean, what are you supposed to do? said a Coolbaugh Township neighbor.

These residents believe that since they pay taxes, they should have more of a say on what happens to renters when things get out of control.

Either give us tax breaks or well just stop paying taxes if they want to be like that, Karen added.

Airbnb has announced an anti-party system on Memorial Day Weekend and the Fourth of July to avoid incidents like this.

28/22 News reached out to several town supervisors and local police but have not heard back.

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Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker said in a social media post Friday that his daughter and son-in-law were both killed in Haiti by gangs while serving as missionaries in the Caribbean country.

Baker, a Neosho resident, said the attack on Natalie and Davy Lloyd happened Thursday night.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain, Baker said in a Facebook post. They went to Heaven together. Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well. I have no other words for now.

Natalie and Davy Lloyd were part of the nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc., which posted about the incident.

"This evening when Davy, Natalie and the kids were coming out of Youth at the church they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys," the organization posted on Facebook. "Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left. Another gang came after to see what was going on and if they could help, so they say. No one understood what they were doing, not sure what took place but one was shot and killed and now this gang went into full attack mode."

Missions in Haiti Inc. later confirmed at 9 p.m. Thursday that Natalie and Davy Lloyd had been shot and killed.

"Natalie and Davy were two young people sharing peace, comfort, and God's word," Governor Mike Parson said in a social media post. "In light of this unimaginable, senseless tragedy, we remember the good they offered the world."

Attacks have reportedly spiked since Haiti recently announced a new prime minister, primarily in the capital city of Port-au-Prince where gangs have taken control of several neighborhoods.

Former President Donald Trump offered his condolences on his Truth Social page.

"God bless Davy and Natalie. Such a tragedy," Trump said. "Haiti is totally out of control. Find the killers NOW!!!"

Natalie Lloyd attended Ozarks Bible Institute in Neosho, which posted a photo of the young married couple.

"We offer our deepest condolences to the Baker & Lloyd families in this time of great loss."

This story is developing.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Neosho Rep. Ben Bakers daughter, son-in-law killed by gangs in Haiti
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  A spotlight will shine on the divide over the Israel-Hamas war when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses a joint session of Congress.

House Speaker Mike Johnson announced the address Thursday night during a speech recognizing Israels 76th Independence Day.

Israels approach to the war has fractured the Democratic party over the impact on civilian Palestinians.

No date has been set yet, but Netanyahu will appear in the halls of Congress soon and while some Democrats say they are united, some experts would disagree.

We are going to stand together, said Johnson.

As the top House Republican Johnson reiterated support for Israel as he says other leaders are backpedaling their support.

They tell us they support Israel, but they give cover to anti-Semitism. This is no time for equivocation, Johnson said.

As the number of civilian deaths in Gaza grows and pro-Palestinian protests take over college campuses some Democrats broke ranks and sharply criticized Israel.

In the House is where youll have some progressive Democrats who will absolutely be outraged that this is happening, said political science professor, Aubrey Jewett.

Aubrey Jewett, a University of Central Florida political science professor, says the issue had driven a wedge in the Democratic party.

its been a very difficult spot for President Biden and the democratic party, Jewett said.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries does not agree.

Its nothing but puppies and rainbows on the house democratic side, said Jeffries.

Jeffries says the only ones to blame are Republicans.

The Republicans have repeatedly tried to make Israel a political issue and divide Democrats. And they have failed, Jeffries added.

The U.N. also put pressure on Israel. Its top court ordered Israel to stop any military operation in Rafah over the humanitarian situation there.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacts during his statement to press ahead of the Likud party meeting in Israeli Parliament (Knesset). Ilia Yefimovich/dpa

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is discussing with several key Cabinet ministers the International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision on Israel's incursion into Rafah, Israeli media reported on Friday.

Netanyahu's office said that he would speak with the attorney general, the justice minister, the foreign minister and the defence minister, among others, in a conference call.

The UN's top court on Friday ordered Israel to "immediately" halt its military operation in Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip.

This was preceded by an urgent application by South Africa.

According to the judges, the humanitarian situation in Rafah is now "disastrous." Further measures are necessary to prevent further harm to the civilian population, they said.
Israel's Netanyahu to address U.S. Congress soon, Johnson says

FILE PHOTO: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks to the media after the Senate dismissed the House Republican impeachment charges against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in Washington

By Matt Spetalnick and Humeyra Pamuk

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Republican U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson said on Thursday Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would soon address a joint meeting of Congress amid heightened tension with President Joe Biden over the Israeli leader's handling of the war in Gaza.

Delivering a keynote speech at the Israeli embassy's annual Independence Day reception, Johnson, the top congressional Republican and a critic of the Democratic presidents Israel policy, said it would be a strong show of support for the Israeli government in their time of greatest need.

Such a speech is sure to further anger progressive Democrats critical of Israel's military campaign in Gaza and Biden's support for it. Netanyahu has closely aligned himself with Republicans.

The diplomatic gathering in Washington comes amid strains between Biden and Netanyahu over a U.S. push for Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians in the war against Hamas militants in Gaza.

The embassy gave equal billing to Democratic U.S. Representative Pete Aguilar, who shared the high-profile platform with Johnson at a more subdued event under the shadow of the Gaza war. "As Americans, we reaffirm our commitment to Israel's sovereignty," he said.

Speaking first, Johnson said to applause: "Tonight I'm happy to announce ... we will soon be hosting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Capitol for a joint session of Congress."

Successive U.S. administration have usually sent a high-level official to the Independence Day receptions.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who in recent months has called the situation in Gaza a "humanitarian catastrophe" and has urged a ceasefire, delivered last year's keynote, mostly extolling U.S. backing for Israel.

An Israeli official said this year the embassy wanted to honor lawmakers in a bipartisan way in appreciation for congressional approval of billions of dollars in new U.S. military aid.

The reception took place on the same night as a White House state dinner for Kenyan President William Ruto, which the Israeli official said created a scheduling conflict for cabinet members.

Several less senior Biden aides were in attendance, including Derek Chollet, Secretary of State Antony Blinken's counselor.

The White House declined comment when asked whether it was consulted about the invitation to Netanyahu or whether Biden, who has denied an Oval Office meeting to the Israeli leader, might see him in Washington.

JOHNSON'S VEILED SWIPE AT BIDEN

Johnson and Aguilar both condemned the International Criminal Court prosecutor's decision this week to seek arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his defense chief, Yoav Gallant. The prosecutor also asked for warrants to capture Hamas leaders responsible for the deadly Oct. 7 cross-border attack on Israel, which triggered the Gaza war.

Johnson took a veiled swipe at Biden, saying "some leaders" have sought to withhold "vital weapons" from Israel. Biden has paused one shipment of bombs and warned he could delay others if Netanyahu carries out an all-out ground offensive in the refugee-packed city of Rafah in southern Gaza. But the flow of weapons has mostly continued.

Security was tight around the National Building Museum where the reception was held. A small group of pro-Palestinian protesters shouted "shame on you" at guests exiting the event. One person held an Israeli flag stained red to simulate blood. Another on a megaphone accused Israel of war crimes.

On Tuesday, Johnson said he was close to inviting Netanyahu, a right-wing leader who had warm relations with former President Donald Trump.

Johnson, a Trump ally, had issued Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer an ultimatum to sign a letter inviting Netanyahu or else he would only speak to the House of Representatives.

Schumer had signaled he was open to Congress hosting Netanyahu, despite declaring in March that the Israeli leader had lost his way and calling for new elections in Israel.

Johnson did not specify a date for Netanyahu's speech.

Addresses to Congress are a rare honor generally reserved for the closest U.S. allies.

Netanyahu has already given three speeches, most recently in 2015. That year, Republican leaders invited him without consulting Democratic then-President Barack Obama, as Netanyahu joined them in an unsuccessful bid to derail Obama's international nuclear deal with Iran.

Dozens of Democrats boycotted Netanyahu's last speech, raising the prospect that some could stay away this time.

Johnson, struggling to keep his fractious Republican House majority intact, has been a prominent voice in the U.S. political divide over Israeli policy. Politicization of the issue has intensified ahead of the November election in which Biden is running against Trump.

In contrast to past years gala celebrations, this years reception, marking the 76th anniversary of Israels founding, was billed as a solidarity event.

Israel is fighting to wipe out Hamas militants who attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and seizing 253 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

Palestinian authorities say more than 35,000 people have been killed during Israel's campaign in Gaza.

(Reporting by Matt Spetalnick and Humeyra Pamuk; editing by Costas Pitas, Leslie Adler, Lincoln Feast and Michael Perry.)
Newly re-elected Georgia state representative accused of lying about being in Delta sorority

A newly re-elected Georgia state representative has been accused of lying about her sorority membership to get more votes.

The sorority says that she is not on their rolls.

Angela Moore just won the primary race for District 91 state representative. She was first elected to that position in 2021.

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Her opponent, Dee Haigler, accused Moore of lying about her membership with the Delta Sigma Theta sorority.

The sorority has since issued a statement, saying there are no records to support her membership.

Channel 2s Audrey Washington spoke to Moore and asked her to provide documentation via phone on Thursday.

At first, Moore said she was not lying about being a Delta and that her opponent was trying to smear her name. She said she pledged under her former married name and that her current name doesnt match her membership records. Then she said she had her membership card and paperwork to show Washington. On a third call, she said she didnt have the documents.

TRENDING STORIES:

Finally, Washington simply asked her, Are you a Delta?

She answered, saying, No, Im not.

In a text message later that evening, she wrote,

I am in the process of having the national chapter investigate and confirm my membership.

Washington was scheduled to talk to Moore again Friday, but she never showed up.

Washington took the issue to Haigler, her opponent.

How can your judgment be trusted, Haigler said. How can you have any credibility?

A few years ago, Moore posted a picture of herself on Twitter with a Delta border and a captain that read, Happy Founders Day.

Moore told Washington that Haigler is behind the controversy.

I am not the one who told everyone that she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta. She did, so she needs to take ownership for her own actions, Haigler said.

Haigler said she just wants Moore to come forward with the truth.

My mother always taught me that the truth will always find you out, Haigler said. And my wise grandmother said, If it dont come out in the wash, itll come out in the rinse.

Washington asked Haigler if she thinks Moore should resign. She said thats for the people of District 91 to decide.

Washington also reached out to the Delta sorority to confirm whether Moore is having the situation investigated but did not hear back.

Statement from the Southern Regional Director of Delta Sigma Theta, Amaris Johnson:

As it relates to the election of the Georgia State Representative District 91, there is only one candidate (Dee Dawkins-Haigler) that is a duly initiated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

This email is not an endorsement for any candidate. However, I have received numerous emails regarding the membership status of candidate Angela Moore for the aforementioned position. Although Ms. Moore continues to represent herself in various forums as a member of Delta Sigma Theta, there are no records to support her membership.

Ensuring we elect candidates that value honesty and integrity to represent our communities is core to our values of Delta Sigma Theta. I wish the Georgia sorors the very best on election Tuesday.




Smoke rises following Israeli strikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on May 18, 2024. The Palestinian death toll from the ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 35,386, health authorities in the Palestinian enclave said in a press statement on Saturday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

In addition, the court demanded that Israel allow fact finders and investigators of United Nations bodies to investigate allegations of genocide and preserve possible evidence.

THE HAGUE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday ordered Israel to stop its military offensive in Rafah, with immediate effect.

"The situation has deteriorated since the last rulings on January 26 and March 28," Judge Nawaf Salam, president of the court, stated at the Peace Palace in The Hague. "The humanitarian situation is now disastrous."

In addition, the court demanded that Israel allow fact finders and investigators of United Nations bodies to investigate allegations of genocide and preserve possible evidence.

The judges added that Israel must submit a report to the court on all measures to implement the court's order within one month.

On May 10, South Africa requested the ICJ to deliver a ruling on the modification and the indication of provisional measures against Israel concerning the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip.

It is not the first ruling in the case initiated by South Africa to the ICJ on Dec. 29, 2023. The judges ordered Israel on Jan. 26 to take all measures within its power to prevent genocide, to ensure that its military does not commit genocide, to halt incitement against Palestinians as a group, to preserve evidence, and to take immediate measures to ensure humanitarian aid.

This photo taken on Dec. 30, 2023 shows the Peace Palace, the seat of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), in The Hague, the Netherlands. (Xinhua/Wang Xiangjiang)

After that, South Africa made subsequent requests in February and March 2024 for additional provisional measures. As a result, the ICJ ordered Israel on March 28 to do whatever is necessary to ensure that basic aid reaches the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip.

"After weeks of bombardments on Rafah, 100,000 Palestinians were already ordered to evacuate on May 6," Salam said in the Friday ruling. "The military operations are still ongoing and led to new evacuations. As a result, nearly 800,000 people were evacuated on May 18."

"In the view of the court, the March 28 order does not fully address the change in the situation. So a modification of measures is justified," said Salam in the latest ruling on Friday.

On May 16 and May 17, the court held public hearings in the current case, with both parties having their chance to make their point.

South Africa's Ambassador to the Netherlands Vusimuzi Madonsela told the judges that his country had returned to the court "due to the continuing annihilation of the Palestinian people, with over 35,000 now killed, and most of Gaza reduced to rubble."

However, Israeli Justice Ministry official Gilad Noam told the judges that Israel has been involved in a "tragic war" to defend itself and denied South Africa's "allegations regarding genocide." 
Arizona abortion providers will now be able to temporarily provide their services to patients from Arizona who travel to California, after Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed a new law Thursday.

The bill, S.B. 233, allows Arizona abortion providers to be quickly approved for work in California. It was introduced by Newsom last month after the Arizona Supreme Courts near-total abortion ban, which has since been repealed.

Under the new law, licensed Arizona doctors can fill out an application to perform abortions and, if they meet certain requirements, California regulators are obliged to approve their application within five business days.

It passed in Californias state Senate in a 30-8 vote Tuesday, with the backing of the California Legislative Womens Caucus.

Arizona Republicans tried to turn back the clock to 1864 to impose a near-total abortion ban across their state. We refuse to stand by and acquiesce to their oppressive and dangerous attacks on women, Newsom wrote in a statement Thursday, adding later, California stands ready to protect reproductive freedom.

When announcing the bill last month, Newsom called it a valuable stopgap even in the case that Arizonas Legislature repealed the ban, which eventually happened.

Arizona is the latest state to be faced with the question of abortion access after the state Supreme Court last month upheld the 1864 ban on nearly all abortions in the state, except in instances to save the life of the mother. The law also imposed jail time for physicians who perform abortions.

The 160-year-old law was never repealed and remained on the books for decades. The GOP-appointed state Supreme Court ruled 4-2 that the ban could be enforced because Roe v. Wade was overturned.

Arizonas Legislature passed a repeal of the ban, which was quickly singed by Gov. Katie Hobbs (D).

Once the repeal goes into effect, the state will revert back to the 15-week ban signed into law by former Gov. Doug Ducey (R) in 2022.

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Inside the Kentucky Capitol, where the Liberty faction of the GOP supermajority is angling for more seats. (Photo by Getty Images)

Liberty Republicans see good signs for their movement in Kentucky after most of their incumbents won in Tuesdays primary and a couple of challengers defeated more establishment-type GOP lawmakers.

The successes came despite Liberty candidates being largely outspent.

Looking ahead, Liberty Republicans are hoping to branch out across the state from their Northern Kentucky stronghold  and recent election results suggest that may already be happening.

Thomas Jefferson

In Central Kentucky, Rep. Killian Timoney, often seen as a moderate Republican, was slammed in campaign mailers for voting against an anti-transgender law and a constitutional amendment to allow the General Assembly to fund nonpublic schools. The Nicholasville representative lost to Liberty candidate Thomas Jefferson, who was endorsed in the primary by the Jessamine County Republican Party. Jefferson will face Democratic candidate Adam Moore in the general election.

Though a recanvass has been requested, Aaron Reed  who some see as a possible Liberty ally  appeared to narrowly defeat Senate leadership-backed Ed Gallrein along with Liberty incumbent Sen. Adrienne Southworth in the 7th Senate District.

Kimberly Holloway

In West Kentucky, incumbent Rep. Richard Heath, of Mayfield was successfully primaried by a Liberty candidate, Kimberly Holloway. Heath is chairman of the House Agriculture Committee.

While the Republican Party is at no risk anytime soon of losing its supermajorities in the House and Senate, the competition between party factions continues to heat up this election cycle. The Liberty Republican movement grew out of Northern Kentucky, where several incumbent Liberty candidates on Tuesday held onto their seats or advanced to a general election.

Against the status quo of establishment politicians

The Kentucky Liberty Caucus website defines Liberty politicians as ones who are more critical of government debt spending, corporate handouts, the influence of money and lobbyists in politics, and intrusion upon the rights of individuals than the establishment.

TJ Roberts

The Liberty Movement in KY has been a reaction within the Republican Party, both nationally and at the state level, against the status quo of establishment politicians who claim to be conservative representatives of the people at election time, then more often than not fail to defend their constituents values & rights, conserve little, and instead represent the powerful, the website says.

T.J. Roberts, a Liberty Republican who won his primary against former state Rep. Ed Massey, said Tuesdays results show that the group has a growing movement. Roberts will face Democratic candidate Peggy Houston-Nienaber in the general election for the House 66th District seat, which opened after Rep. Steve Rawlings announced he would run for the Senate.

Ed Massey (LRC Public Information)

This movement is winning. Its spreading, and Im thankful to be a part of it, Roberts said. That said, because I think this is the future of the Republican Party.

He added that the movement means holding our elected officials feet to the fire both on their campaign promises and upholding the U.S. Constitution and Republican Party platform.

Roberts, a 26-year-old who if elected would become the first Gen Z Republican in the General Assembly, said that he became involved in politics after working on campaigns for U.S. Sen. Rand Paul and Rep. Thomas Massie. Roberts attended Massies victory party Tuesday night along with a few other Liberty-aligned Republicans.

I decided to run for office in large part to make clear that the role of government has been for far too long ignored, Roberts said. And seeing what had happened to the Liberty people throughout the 2023 session, just prompted me to say you know what, Ive had enough and I need to step up my involvement somehow.

Whos a real conservative?

Roberts was referring to the sometimes terse relationship Liberty incumbents have had with GOP leadership in the General Assembly. A few were removed from their committee assignments at the end of the 2023 legislative session for bucking House leadership, but those assignments were later restored this year. At the start of the 2024 legislative session, Pendleton Republican Rep. Felicia Rabourn led an effort to change House rules to loosen House leaderships control of the legislative process, but it failed to gain enough votes. Rabourn won her primary Tuesday but will face a Democratic challenger, Robb Adams, in the fall.

Rep. Savannah Maddox, a Dry Ridge Republican who supported the rules change, won her primary by a 66-point margin Tuesday. While she does not refer to herself as a Liberty Republican, she is often seen by others as a key member of the group.

Rep. Savannah Maddox, R-Dry Ridge, left, and House Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade, R-Stanford, speak on the Kentucky House floor, Jan. 10, 2024. (LRC Public Information)

The point that Im trying to get across is that those of who are currently being characterized as Liberty Republicans, are being characterized as such by people who have deviated from the Republican Party platform, and its making them look bad. So, theyve got to marginalize us, to other us, if you will, to create this other category or faction when in reality, Im a lifelong Republican. Have been since I first registered to vote.

That really is what it comes down to  authentic Republicans, genuine conservatives, folks that are going to uphold the Constitution, limited government, free markets.

Maddox said the recent primary election showed that Kentucky Republicans must look at candidates voting records and are beginning to read between the lines. She said the days are gone when candidates could send out mailers just saying they are 100% pro-life, Im 100% pro-Second Amendment and I want greater economic growth because voters are looking at their voting records.

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massies PAC supported TJ Roberts. (Roberts campaign)

Kentuckians have clearly put their trust in Republicans to lead, but now theyre finding out that that doesnt necessarily mean that we have a supermajority of conservatives, she said.

Maddox noted expensive efforts spent to campaign against incumbent Liberty-aligned candidates. After Tuesday, House leadership, she said, has seen that the investment that was made on behalf of the political establishments to take out these incumbents was a bad investment.

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce PAC backed establishment Republicans, including leadership members and Massey, a former lawmaker. A PAC that was funded by the Jefferson County Teachers Association backed Timoney and Massey. Among the sources of financial support for Liberty candidates were Americans for Prosperity and U.S. Rep. Thomas Massies leadership PAC.

Andy Barr

Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Andy Barr stressed what unites Kentucky Republicans, rather than what separates, them when spoke to the crowd of local Republican Party members at the Republican Party of Kentuckys state convention in Somerset, held days before the primary, about the need to unify. He said Republicans have a lot of different flavors when it comes to issues like foreign policy, supporting former President Donald Trump, free trade and more.

These Republicans who have different flavors, theyre not our enemies, Barr said. The adversaries that we face  believe me I see them every day in Congress, trying to make this country unrecognizable to all of us  thats who we have to focus on  defeating the far extreme left.

He got a round of applause from the party faithful.

Will rifts be mended?

Republican Secretary of State Michael Adams, who won his second term in 2023 with support from Republicans and Democrats, said Liberty Republicans feel like they were shot at and missed in the primary election.

The ones who won almost all of whom were incumbents, won by big margins, and they won some open seats by some big margins and those were holds for the most part, Adams said. But they feel good and they should feel good that they certainly defended themselves.

Michael Adams. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Matthew Mueller)

As for whats in store for Liberty Republicans, Adams said they have something in common with the minority political party in Kentucky.

I think the Liberty folks have actually the same challenge that Democrats have, which is recruitment, Adams said. Can they find people  will they find people  to run against every Republican incumbent, or are they going to kind of be a regional organization?

Both have a regional stronghold  the Democrats in Jefferson and Fayette counties while Liberty Republicans tend to be in Northern Kentucky  but have occasional success in other areas of the state. Two Democratic members of the General Assembly, where Republicans hold an overwhelming majority of seats, are from Eastern Kentucky and Liberty Republicans had success in Central and West Kentucky in the primary.

However, Roberts said it would be a misnomer to call the Liberty Republican movement exclusive to Northern Kentucky. He said the future includes building up  Liberty folks from outside of the region. He also pointed to some elected Republicans he views as Liberty-aligned from other areas of Kentucky, such as Reps. Josh Calloway or Candy Massaroni.

Were playing stronger in Northern Kentucky, but I do think that theres a lot of potential to build off of it and make sure that we get more people, Roberts said.

As for the next legislative session, which begins in January 2025, Maddox said its up to GOP leadership as to whether or not they are going to learn from that experience of working against Liberty incumbents. She said leadership could double down and continue to engage in various types of tactics like removing members from committees or blocking legislation, or not.

We are Republicans, and we are hopeful that they will see the writing on the wall and that we can get back to doing what we do best, which is creating effective public policy, she said.

Roberts also expressed a desire to work with GOP leadership.

If anything, the retaliation makes the people all the more frustrated with whats going on in Frankfort, he said. So, at the very least, lets give these people a voice. Lets make sure that the constitutional conservatives at least get a fair shake in Frankfort.

The post Whats next for Kentuckys Liberty Republicans? appeared first on Kentucky Lantern.
CONCORD  The New Hampshire House on Thursday voted to kill a bill opponents said would have killed the New Hampshire Public Deposit Investment Pool (PDIP or The Pool), but the issue isn't settled yet as the legislation was later brought back to life in the state Senate.

The New Hampshire House of Representatives

This is not a Republican bill. This is not a Democratic bill. This is a municipal bill, which will take money from the municipalities, said Rep. Steven Bogert, R-Laconia, urging his fellow representatives to vote against SB 553 on the House floor.

Supporters of the bill said that PDIP dollars arent being used to help New Hampshire, and that this bill would encourage more of that money to be invested or deposited in New Hampshire banks. It came out of the House Commerce and Consumer Affairs committee with a recommendation of ought to pass with amendment 16-9.

But many town officials, including Todd Selig, the town administrator for Durham, opposed the bill in hearings, saying that this bill would effectively kill the PDIP, which they said is an important tool for smaller communities.

The House sent SB 553 to interim study on a near unanimous voice vote.

PDIP bill revived in the Senate

But around 5 p.m. in the other chamber, SB 553 prime sponsor Sen. Cindy Rosenwald, D-Nashua, revived the issue by adding the bill's language as amendment 2165s onto HB 1241, a bill originally having to do with the regulation of money transmitters.

Senate Bill 553 is an economic stimulus bill, and we voted it out of here 24-0, Rosenwald said. This amendment language is a true compromise. It addresses concerns in the House raised during the hearing and by the treasurer. I support this language and I hope we will vote to adopt this floor amendment.

Sellig urged the legislature to preserve the status quo.

Due to the Pools success, NH banks have had the Pool and the $680 million in public funds invested there in their sights for a few years, Sellig wrote in an email. If banks want to win back business, all they need to do is increase interest rates and terms to match the Pool. Thats competition, which is good for NH.

Now, HB 1241 will go back to the House, where they have the choice to concur, non-concur, or non-concur and form a committee of conference. Since the House rejected the original language, its unlikely it will concur.

This story has been updated to include the issue's revival in the Senate.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH lawmakers spare NH Public Deposit Investment Pool
It's taken Nintendo two decades, but the company is finally ready to open a second store in the US. The new location in San Franciscos Union Square is set to open its doors in 2025. Details about Nintendo San Francisco are thin for now, but the company said it will allow "visitors from near and far to experience the world of Nintendo, its products and characters." More information will be revealed in the leadup to the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Nintendo opened its New York store at Rockefeller Center 19 years ago this month, though there was previously a Pokemon Center at the same location. Along with merchandise and kiosks where visitors can play some Switch games, the New York store has a mini museum featuring older consoles and a boatload of Amiibo.

The company didn't open any permanent stores in Japan until 2019, and it now has three in its home country. Nintendo also has a private outlet for employees at its American headquarters in Redmond, Washington.
NJ fire near The RealReal warehouse causes gray smoke to fill sky, video shows

NJ fire near The RealReal warehouse causes gray smoke to fill sky, video shows

NEW JERSEY (PIX11) A warehouse fire near the luxury reseller The RealReal caused a thick cloud of smoke to be seen coming from atop a building in Secaucus, New Jersey, Friday afternoon, according to video footage from AIR11.

According to building records, the warehouse also houses other operating businesses in the area.

NYC to ease lifeguard requirements to keep beaches open

We can confirm there was a fire on the roof adjacent to one of our Secaucus warehouses, said Jessica Fortier, senior vice president of operations at The RealReal. Were relieved to report everyone is safe. We do not anticipate any impact on our inventory. We are working with the building owners to understand what happened.

Firefighters were seen pouring water on the fire, but it is unclear what sparked the incident, according to Citizen App video.

A heavy fire burned through multiple skylights on the roof. Due to the light weight of the roof and the fire burning through it, the fire spread quickly, Fred Schneider, the chief of the Seacauus Fire Department, said.

Firefighters from surrounding New Jersey towns also aided in extinguishing the blaze.

This is a developing story. Refresh this page for updates.

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.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
No one is taking control: Back Bay residents skeptical about summer drag racing crackdown

People in Bostons Back Bay are sharing skepticism days after the Boston Police Departments announcement about a summer crackdown on illegal drag racing, ATV and dirt bike activity.

Residents said the street takeover that infiltrated their neighborhood in the overnight hours of April 21st is still being talked about.

Thats when more than 40 cars blocked off streets and delayed police officers from getting to the scene in response to dozens of 911 calls.

Neighbors captured cell phone video of more than 15 cars doing donuts at several intersections including Marlborough and Dartmouth Streets.

Were reaching a boiling point where no one is taking of control of all the unorganized mayhem on the streets, said Back Bay resident Ellen Zumbado. Tell us the bullet point plan!

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox declined to share specifics about increased enforcement and prevention during a news conference on Tuesday.

He said that BPD is working with its auto theft unit and community partners to tackle the dangerous activity that is impacting peoples quality of life.

Do not come to Boston this summer to engage in this activity because we will seize your vehicles and equipment, said Commissioner Cox.

Boston Police seized 150 dirt bikes, ATVs and other cars connected to illegal racing back in 2023.

The department issued more than 400 citations last year and reported everyone to the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Commissioner Cox said that revelers who participate in illegal street activity could also face criminal charges.

However, no one connected to last months incident in Bostons Back Bay was charged with a crime.

Im not too optimistic that police are going to do anything about it, said Back Bay resident Dennis Maher.

According to Commissioner Cox, approximately 10 to 15 percent of the dirt bikes and ATVs seized during last years incidents were reported stolen.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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The parking decks and lots at Norfolk International Airport could reach near capacity this weekend as travelers depart for Memorial Day, airport officials said.

First reported by WAVY-TV, airport parking reached 90% full during spring break this year, said Mark Perryman, Norfolk Airport Authority president and CEO. He said parking could again hit 90% capacity this weekend.

When we get into that 10% left over, we start to worry about that, Perryman said.

Later this summer, the parking situation should improve as flyers spread out their vacations and business travel, Perryman said.

In the short term, he encouraged flyers to reserve their parking space in advance using the airports free parking loyalty program. In addition to the reservation system, the program rewards frequent parkers with parking discounts.

In the longer term, airport leaders are considering converting a staff lot by Robin Hood Road into a valet lot and expanding Daily Garage D, Perryman said. Additionally, plans to consolidate the airport rental car agencies into a single facility will free up around 600 spaces in Daily Garage A.

Travel this weekend is expected to beat pre-pandemic levels, according to predictions from AAA. The organization expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, a 4.8% increase over 2023 and a 9% bump compared with 2019. It would be the busiest Memorial Day weekend since 3.64 million travelers in 2005.

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Norfolk experienced a record-breaking start to 2024, with a record number of travelers each month from January through April. The airport recorded 394,447 passengers in April, up 5.5% from 373,734 people in April 2023.

This year, the airport continues to launch new routes, Perryman said during a Thursday board of commissioners meeting, including Frontier Airlines service to San Juan, Puerto Rico and Philadelphia and Southwest Airlines flights to St. Louis. However, he said problems with Boeing production would slow down the rate of new services because airlines do not have enough new planes.

Perryman also updated the board on now around $920 million in capital projects. On June 10, the airport will break ground on a new $30 million Customs and Border Protection international arrivals facility as well as a $30 million expansion to Concourse A, which will add three gates. Both projects are expected to be completed by December 2025.

Crews are also working on the second phase of repairing an airport runway. A long-requested $2.5 million moving walkway between the arrivals and departures terminals will be constructed between July and February. New airport seating, complete with charging and power ports, will be installed in Concourse A this summer and Concourse B this fall.

Finally, an airport hotel is expected to begin construction this winter and finish in March 2026.

Trevor Metcalfe, 757-222-5345, trevor.metcalfe@pilotonline.com
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  In his first veto of the 2024 legislative session, Democratic North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper on Thursday blocked passage of a transportation bill that contains billboard rule changes that he said would hinder the states natural beauty.

The bill includes several changes to transportation laws, many of which were recommended by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. It adds higher processing fees for people who havent paid road toll bills, increases the number of pilot transportation projects the department can award contracts for and renames several bridges across the state.

But most criticism of the bill, including from Cooper, centers around a provision that expands the area where billboard owners are permitted to cut down vegetation along roadways. It would allow for redbud trees, a previously protected species that blooms with pink flowers during spring, to be removed during the clearing process.

Redbuds and other trees that were threatened by this ill-conceived bill support carbon sequestration, pollinator propagation, and wildlife habitat, North Carolina Chapter of the Sierra Club director Erin Carey said in a statement supporting Coopers veto.

The bill was the result of a years worth of negotiations that included input from a wide variety of stakeholders, Columbus County Republican Rep. Brenden Jones said on the House floor Wednesday.

The legislation passed along party lines in the Senate on May 15, but six House Democrats voted with Republicans on Wednesday to approve the bill and send it to the governors desk.

Now the bill returns to the General Assembly, where GOP lawmakers have narrow veto-proof majorities in both chambers. Senate Republicans already indicated in a statement after Coopers veto that they plan to override it, although the process will first begin in the House.

The General Assembly overrode all 19 of Coopers vetoes from 2023.

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Left to right, Max Berry, Katie Lyon and Wes Lyon, in 2018 founded Allegiance Flag Supply in North Charleston. (Provided by Allegiance)

NORTH CHARLESTON  Katie Lyon grew up with an American flag hanging outside her childhood home in Charleston.

Her family flew it to honor her grandfather, Henry Morgan, a naval officer stationed at Pearl Harbor in 1941 when Japan launched a surprise attack on the naval base that pulled the United States into World War II. The 23-year-old husband and father would survive and return to his home in Baltimore, Maryland, becoming the county fire chief.

Patriotism and first responders and the military community has just always been near and dear to my heart personally, Lyon recently said told the SC Daily Gazette.

So, when she married, she and her husband wanted a flag for their own home. But the flags they bought wore out quickly in the South Carolina weather, requiring replacement every three or four months, and were often made in factories outside the U.S.

Its what inspired Lyon, along with her husband Wes Lyon and childhood friend Max Berry, to found Allegiance Flag Supply in 2018.

Berry, too, had grandfathers who had served in the military and shared the couples patriotic values.

The business started in the Lyons garage, at first working with a third-generation, family-owned textile factory in Georgia to make their product. Just ahead of Memorial Day, the company celebrated its fifth expansion in three years, hand sewing high-quality flags in house at its North Charleston facility.

Allegiance is investing $6.3 million to expand into a 24,000-square-foot site, with plans to grow to 144 total employees over the next five years. The company is seeking to hire seamstresses and packaging workers as demand for their flags has risen above 2,000 shipments daily across the country and to U.S. military bases abroad, Katie Lyon said.

South Carolina is proud to be the home of a company that manufactures Americas symbol of freedom, said state Commerce Secretary Harry Lightsey. We are thrilled Allegiance Flag Supply decided to expand and further grow its presence in our state.

Lyon also points to South Carolinas history as a leading textile state, before companies shuttered mills to move operations overseas starting in the 70s.

Playing a small part in bringing some of those jobs back means absolutely everything to us, she said.

Allegiance makes its flags with heavy nylon fabric, double stitched to prevent them from unraveling. It designs flag poles to rotate so flags dont tangle. The company trifolds its flags military-style and ships them in triangle-shaped boxes.

Allegiances flag sales tend to spike around holidays such as Veterans Day and Independence Day.

And on Memorial Day. Lyon said Allegiance has had customers purchase flags in memory of military family members who died while serving.

Allegiance also partners with several nonprofits that serve veterans, emergency personnel and their families. They donate flags or a portion of sales to groups such as Boot Campaign for soldiers facing post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries, Stop Soldier Suicide and Folds of Honor scholarships for family of fallen and disabled service members.

Lyon said Allegiance also hopes to expand its other product offerings, such as clothing and leather goods.

Theres just theres so many more American-made products to explore, she said. Were not done yet, thats for sure.

The post North Charleston flag makers lean into their families military roots as business grows appeared first on SC Daily Gazette.
Dick Mazza's seat in the Vermont Senate  left vacant last month after the state's longest-serving senator resigned due to health challenges  now has a new occupant.

Gov. Phil Scott appointed North Hero resident Andy Julow, a Democrat, to fill the Grand Isle District seat on Monday, May 21, effective immediately. Julow, who serves as the director of the Lake Champlain Islands Economic Development Corp., will finish out the remainder of Mazza's term, which ends in January.

Before his resignation in early April, Mazza, also a Democrat, had represented Grand Isle County and Colchester in the Statehouse for over 42 years, serving in the Senate from 1985 to 2024 and in the House from 1973 to 1976.

"Andy is a lifelong Vermonter with experience serving his community and promoting economic development in the islands," Scott said in a press release on Tuesday. "The constituents of the Grand Isle district deserve a voice in Montpelier, and I am appreciative of Andy's willingness to serve."

Sen. Dick Mazza, D-Grand Isle, laughs with Sen. Jane Kitchel, D-Caledonia, during the inauguration ceremony for Gov. Phil Scott and other statewide elected officials Jan. 10, 2019 at the Statehouse in Montpelier.

Described in Scott's press release as an "active member" of the Grand Isle County community, Julow served as the chairman of his local School Board for almost a decade and on the Development Review Board for five years. Additionally, he ran two unsuccessful campaigns for the Vermont House of Representatives in 2016 and 2020.

Julow is married with two adult daughters, who, like their father, attended Grand Isle schools.

"Many across the state knew Dick Mazza as a powerful Senator, but to the people of Colchester and the islands, he was a neighbor who genuinely cared about the well-being of others and to who no matter was too small," Julow said in the press release.

What's next for Julow?

The Vermont legislative session had already concluded for the summer by the time Julow was appointed to fill Mazza's seat  save for the veto session scheduled for June 17  but Julow said he still has work to do.

Since his appointment, Julow said he has been attending to the pressing constituent services "backlog" that occurred as a result of the Senate seat's month-long vacancy. He will also join the other legislators for the veto session next month.

In the meantime, Julow is also weighing whether to launch a bid to extend his time in the Statehouse. Julow's seat, along with all other Vermont House and Senate seats, is up for election on Nov. 5.

Just a week before the major party filing deadline for the August primary, Julow  who said he hadn't even considered filling Mazza's seat until requested by the Grand Isle Democrats  remained uncertain about whether he would attempt a run for a full term.

However, Julow said that if he does decide to enter the race, he will prioritize finding solutions for recent statewide school budgetary issues.

"That's something we really need to fix," he said.

Megan Stewart is a government accountability reporter for the Burlington Free Press. Contact her at mstewartyounger@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Andy Julow to fill Dick Mazza's Vermont Senate seat for Colvhester
SYDNEY, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Two people have died and a third has been rushed to hospital in critical condition after a shooting incident on Friday in the suburbs of Perth in Western Australia, local media reported.

A Western Australia Police spokesperson said emergency services responded to reports of a firearm being discharged at a home in Floreat, a residential suburb of Perth at about 4:30 p.m. local time (0830 GMT), according to the Australian ABC News broadcaster.

Two people were found dead at the scene, and another person has been rushed to Royal Perth Hospital under priority conditions.

The incident is now contained and there is no ongoing threat to the community, police said.

It is understood those involved are all known to each other, the PerthNow news website reported.

Neighbors said a mother and her two adult daughters live at the address, according to the report. 
A Springtown man was sentenced Thursday to 35 years in prison without parole after a Parker County jury convicted him of repeatedly sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl in 2021.

Aniceto Turrubiates Sanchezs wife came home early from work one day and found him in a bed with the victim naked from the waist down, according to authorities. In her testimony, the wife told jurors that her husband said that he was asleep and that nothing happened. When she asked the victim, the girl said he had been molested.

Sanchezs wife took the girl to Cook Childrens Medical Center in Fort Worth where she was seen by a sexual assault nurse examiner. Sanchez was arrested by the Parker County Sheriffs Office after the girl told medical staff he had molested her between 10 to 20 times a day, according to authorities.

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Despite the fact that this was a strong case, our victim had to take the witness stand and tell our jury how the defendant repeatedly molested her, said Parker County District Attorney Jeff Swain in a news release. She was proud to have stood up for herself and we were very proud of her. This jurys decision demonstrates yet again the firm stand that Parker County has long taken against pedophiles who would prey on our children.

In a statement to investigator Nathan Vick, Sanchez denied touching the girl and would change what he said in interviews.

We felt his hiding important details was indicative of his consciousness of guilt, said Abby Placke, an assistant district attorney. Eventually, he admitted that he made a mistake, but he would never actually come out and admit what he had done.

The jury deliberated for about an hour before returning with a guilty verdict.

Parole is not possible for defendants convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a young child, according to Swain.
Congressional lawmakers grilled Northwestern University President Michael Schill for several hours on Thursday about the rise of antisemitism on campus  including allegations that a Jewish student at the elite Big Ten school was recently assaulted and another student wearing a yarmulke was spat upon.

Schill, who described himself as a Jewish descendent of Holocaust victims and survivors, acknowledged the recent disturbing spike in antisemitism at Northwestern and other schools nationwide as he testified before congressional leaders during a hearing in Washington titled Calling for Accountability: Stopping Antisemitic College Chaos.

He said the Evanston-based university will work over the summer to update its conduct code before the next academic year begins.

Where there is conduct that threatens the Northwestern community, we must impose discipline, and we have done so, Schill said, during opening remarks. Yet, I will be the first to admit  our existing rules and policies are falling short, and we must improve our processes to meet the current challenge.

Schill added that the university will also increase security and enhance enforcement of the student code of conduct.

We are confident we can continue to promote two principles at the core of our mission  free expression and academic freedom  while disciplining harassment and intimidation, he said.

Colleges and universities across the country have faced mounting accusations of fostering environments that are hostile or discriminatory to Jews, particularly since the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, which killed roughly 1,200 and plunged the region into an ongoing war.

The hearing before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce came as tensions on colleges nationwide have hit a fever pitch due to a movement of pro-Palestinian demonstrations and protest encampments, including one that took hold at Northwestern last month.

Schill, who has served as president of Northwestern since fall 2022, testified alongside the leaders of Rutgers University and the University of California, Los Angeles.

Several prominent leaders of Ivy League schools resigned under fire following testimony at a similar congressional hearing on campus antisemitism late last year.

Avi Gordon, executive director of the group Alums for Campus Fairness, called for Schills removal after the hearing concluded.

The organization launched a six-figure digital and TV ad campaign targeting Northwestern Universitys refusal to protect Jewish students.

At this juncture, it shouldnt take the Northwestern Board of Trustees much soul-searching to do the right thing and fire Schill, Gordon said. Its obvious hes lost all credibility and must go.

Officials with the Anti-Defamation League Midwest last month had called for Schills resignation or removal by the Northwestern board of trustees, claiming that the university presidents actions amount to giving in to hatred and bigotry, empowering and emboldening those who have used intimidation, harassment, and violence to achieve their goals.

The group Students for Justice in Palestine at Northwestern, referred to Thursdays hearing as a yet another congressional mock-trial and a McCarthyist project, alluding to the political repression and persecution of folks accused Communist ties in the mid-20th century.

The congressional committees defamation and repression of pro-Palestine student protesters will purposefully ignore the violent and discriminatory Zionist counter-protesters, according to a statement by the group. Our own student repression represents mere fractions of the violence faced by those in Palestine.  Our movement for Palestinian liberation only grows in the wake of repression.

Assault, harassment allegations

Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, noted that the Anti-Defamation League recently gave Northwestern an F on its campus antisemitism report card.

She asked Schill about allegations that a Jewish student was assaulted at the Northwestern pro-Palestinian encampment.

There are allegations that a Jewish student was assaulted and we are investigating those allegations, Schill responded.

Stefanik also asked about an incident where a Jewish student was allegedly harassed and stalked on the way to Hillel, a Jewish organization on campus, as well as accusations that a student wearing a Yermalke was spat upon.

This is why you earned an F, Stefanik added.

All of these are allegations that are being investigated, Schill said, adding that the university believes in due process.

Stefanik then asked Schill if it was true that a Jewish student was told to go back to Germany and get gassed?

Ive heard that alleged, he said. Again, it is being investigated. We will investigate any claim of discrimination.

When questioned about discipline and consequences linked to campus antisemitic incidents, Schill said no Northwestern students have been suspended or expelled, though there have been lots of investigations into allegations of misconduct.

Schill declined to discuss individual allegations, adding that investigations are ongoing.

Embarrassing to your school

While questioning Schill, one Republican lawmaker from Indiana said Northwestern has become a joke.

Your performance here has been very embarrassing to your school, said Rep. Jim Banks.

Yet Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a Democrat from Washington and Northwestern alum, argued that the hearing was being used for political bullying purposes as opposed to finding meaningful ways to combat antisemitism and other forms of discrimination.

I agree completely with (Schills) elegant comments on the need to fight the scourge of antisemitism on our campuses and everywhere and I appreciate your own lived experience and your work to do that, she said.

She also asked about Schills work to address safety concerns for Muslim and Arab-American students, particularly amid the rise of Islamophobia and other forms of hatred and discrimination nationwide.

Schill said that any form of hate, any form of harassment, will be investigated by the university.

Hate is hate, and we must investigate all of it, he added later in the hearing.

Encampment agreement

Schill also stood by Northwesterns decision to reach an agreement with pro-Palestinian demonstrators that resulted in the peaceful dismantling of an encampment on Deering Meadow, a popular open space on campus.

Pro-Palestinian encampments at other universities have resulted in the arrest of student protesters, dismantling by police, cancellation of graduation and other major events  and even violence in a few instances.

But the tents came down peacefully at Northwestern, where officials were able to negotiate a rare agreement with protesters that allowed demonstrations to continue while barring temporary structures and tents, except for one with aid supplies. The deal also prevented outsiders from joining these demonstrations.

The university vowed to provide students more information about the schools investments, as well as establish a house for Muslim and Middle Eastern students to eat, socialize and pray, among other concessions.

During testimony, Schill described the Northwestern encampment as a threat to Jewish students on campus.

As I watched what was unfolding there, and at encampments across the country, I believed that the danger it posed grew every day it stayed up, he said. Every day brought new reports of intimidation and harassment.

Several faculty members have applauded the agreement, calling it historic.

Some university presidents who testified recently before the House committee were forced to step down, said a letter signed by faculty members, which was published in the Daily Northwestern earlier this week. We call on (Northwesterns) trustees to resist outside pressures and condemn the House committees misrepresentations of our campus.

But Wendy Khabie, co-chair of the organization Coalition Against Antisemitism at Northwestern and mother of a Northwestern student, said its astonishing that (Schill) does not see this as capitulation.

We continue to be horrified by Northwesterns insistence that they are doing everything they can to stop antisemitism on campus and todays hearing reinforces our fears, she said shortly after the hearing concluded.

No divestment

The chairwoman of the committee, Rep. Virginia Foxx, a Republican from North Carolina, called the agreement a disgraceful deal, which spurred multiple members of a university antisemitism advisory committee to resign.

These antisemitic protests have led to hijacking buildings, erecting unlawful encampments, disrupting classrooms, and canceling commencements, Foxx said. They have been the principal agents of anti-Jewish harassment and violence and have made an absolute mockery of so-called university leaders.

She went on to rebuke the three university leaders for your decisions that allowed antisemitic encampments to endanger Jewish students, adding that Schill should be doubly ashamed for capitulating to the antisemitic rule-breakers.

Schill rejected the premise that the university caved to demonstrators.

We did not give into any of the protestors demands, and the commitments we made are consistent with Northwesterns values and will ultimately benefit the university, he said.

Schill added that he refused the protesters demand that the university divest itself from financial ties to Israel.

I will not recommend to our board that Northwestern uses the endowment for political purposes, he said. By engaging our students with dialogue instead of force, we modeled the behavior we want them to learn from and apply daily.

Antisemtism task force debacle

A few weeks after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, Schill established an advisory committee tasked with helping to prevent antisemitism and hate on campus.

But seven members of that committee recently resigned in protest of Northwesterns agreement with pro-Palestinian demonstrators to take down the encampment; committee members said they were not consulted about the deal or offered a role in negotiations.

While intended to create an infrastructure for future conversations about Jewish and Zionist students experiences, the committees are so limited in the actions they are actually able to take that they are rendered useless, one Jewish student who stepped down from the committee said in a recent Tribune opinion piece. I no longer see Northwesterns committee as paving an effective path forward  and instead have come to understand how completely performative these task forces are.

Several lawmakers questioned why the members of the advisory committee were not consulted about the decision to reach an agreement with protesters or the terms of the deal; Schill indicated that it wouldnt have been feasible to do so in a timely manner, and he wanted to reach a resolution as quickly as possible so the encampment would come down.

During Schills testimony, he pledged that Northwestern will reconstitute a task force to guide our actions and will use models from tasks forces at other schools that have tackled antisemitism.

And we will do what we do best  teach our students about the dangers of antisemitism, he said.

Future of higher education

Many colleges and universities have grappled with protecting free speech on their campuses while protecting students from harassment and discrimination amid the war in Gaza, which has killed an estimated 35,000 Palestinians, according to United Nations officials.

An ADL report late last year revealed that nearly three-quarters of Jewish college students experienced or witnessed antisemitism since the start of the academic year.

Arab Americans and Muslims have also faced rising Islamophobia and anti-Arab rhetoric, harassment and violence since the war began. A report by the Council on American-Islamic Relations released last month tracked more than 8,000 complaints in 2023, which included of alleged hate crimes as well as education discrimination; this was a 56% increase from the previous year and the highest number recorded in the organizations 30-year history.

The House recently passed legislation that would broaden definition of antisemitism used by the Department of Education to enforce anti-discrimination laws, spurred by the student protest movement in opposition to the Israel-Hamas war. Yet opponents have argued the proposed definition would chill free speech on college campuses.

After a similar hearing on campus antisemitism in December, the president of the University of Pennsylvania stepped down amid backlash over her testimony, and the chairman of the schools board of trustees resigned too. The president of Harvard University, who testified as well, also stepped down, though she had faced plagiarism accusations simultaneously.

Just before Thursdays hearing concluded, the chairwoman indicated that the congressional probe of antisemtism allegations at Northwestern and the other two schools wasnt over.

Todays hearing is the beginning, not the end, of the committees investigation of your institutions, Foxx said to all three university officials who testified. Youll be held accountable for your records.

____
Teshekpuk Caribou Herd animals graze in June of 2014 in the northestern part of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. (Photo by Bob Wick/Bureau of Land Management)

Teshekpuk Caribou Herd animals graze in June of 2014 in the northestern part of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. (Photo by Bob Wick/Bureau of Land Management)

With climate change rapidly reshaping the Arctic, the Biden administrations recent change to management of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska is overdue. This is the first significant update in 40 years, and it is a critical step toward prioritizing community health and protecting the intact ecosystems of the reserve.

This rule change will make it easier for the government to adapt its management policies for changing environmental conditions, and requires mitigation for development impacts. It encourages the Bureau of Land Management to pursue co-stewardship opportunities with local communities. It also clarifies existing protections for the reserves special areas13 million acres recognized for their cultural, subsistence and ecological values. By setting up a process to update and designate new special areas at least every 10 years, this rule helps the government respond more quickly to local feedback and new scientific research.

Some say this update shuts the door on future development in the reserve. Thats not true. Existing leases remain valid. And theres been no shortage of opportunities for oil companies: Developers had the chance to bid on a cumulative total of 60 million acres during the 15 most recent leases between 1999 and 2019. Many of them chose not toonly 12% of the available tracts actually received bids. This springs rule simply provides balance after many years spent prioritizing industry interests.

There is nothing radical about ensuring that corporate profits are not put above the health of Alaskas communities and ecosystems. In fact, a core tenet of the 1976 Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act is to protect fish and wildlife, subsistence, recreation and the cultural resources of the reserve.

While the five existing special areasTeshekpuk Lake, Colville River, Utukok River Uplands, Kasegaluk Lagoon, and Peard Bayare indeed special, this entire region supports vital biodiversity. Millions of migratory birds arrive from around the world each summer, fish spawn and overwinter in rivers and streams, and caribou herds calve and forage from south of the Brooks Range to the Arctic Ocean.

Unfortunately, 2.5 million acres of the reserve are already leased to oil companies, including roughly 800,000 acres within designated special areas. Thats what allowed the recent development of several major oil fields, like ConocoPhillips Willow project. Industry advocates fall back on the tired refrain that Alaska does mining and oil better than the rest of the worldbut local Alaskan communities still live with the consequences.

In 2022, for example, after the blowout at ConocoPhillips Alpine oil field, company employees got evacuated, while the people of Nuiqsut were left wondering how it would impact their health. ConocoPhillips was eventually fined nearly $1 million for the weeks-long release of natural gas.

Change will not happen overnight, but supporting Arctic communities is not synonymous with more oil. The Northwest Arctic Boroughs recent push for heat pumps and solar power is just one example of locally ed innovation. Instead of advocating for future oil development, our politicians could make an immediate difference by closing tax loopholes and subsidies for oil companies that cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars per year.

As the cultural and economic costs of climate change multiply around the statefrom a decline in the population of the Western Arctic Caribou Herd to permafrost thaw and coastal erosionits time to put Alaskans before oil.

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The post Theres nothing radical about protecting the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska appeared first on Alaska Beacon.
FILE PHOTO: A box of Ozempic made by Novo Nordisk is seen at a pharmacy in London

By Nancy Lapid

(Reuters) - Novo Nordisk's Ozempic slowed the worsening of kidney dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes and lowered the risk of kidney failure, heart problems, stroke and death, according to detailed results from a late-stage trial presented on Friday.

The company in March reported that the diabetes drug known chemically as semaglutide cut the combined risk of kidney complications and cardiovascular events by 24% over the next 3.4 years in patients who received weekly 1-milligram injections compared with those who got a placebo.

The benefits observed in the trial "reflect important clinical effects on kidney, cardiovascular, and survival outcomes among high-risk patients ... and support a therapeutic role for semaglutide in this population," study leader Dr. Vlado Perkovic of the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia said in a statement.

The more detailed data on the trial of 3,533 patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease was presented at the European Renal Association meeting in Stockholm and published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Kidney health declined significantly faster in patients who received a placebo than in those who received Ozempic, as shown by a measure known as the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), researchers found.

The trial was stopped early when an independent monitoring committee reviewed the data and determined the benefits of Ozempic were clear, the researchers said.

Ozempic belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists and has the same active ingredient as Novo Nordisk's wildly popular obesity drug Wegovy.

Obesity was not a requirement for participation in the current trial. But Novo and rival Eli Lilly are hoping to gain wider insurance coverage for their weight-loss drugs by demonstrating their other medical benefits.

Reductions in risk were similar when looking only at kidney-related events, such as starting dialysis, undergoing kidney transplantation or experiencing a precipitous decline in kidney function, researchers said.

Patients in the Ozempic group had an 18% lower risk of major adverse heart events and a 20% lower risk of death from any cause, the researchers said.

Withdrawal from the study mostly due to gastrointestinal issues were 13.2% in the Ozempic group versus 11.9% for placebo.

(Reporting by Nancy Lapid; editing by Michele Gershberg and Bill Berkrot)
Speaker Adrienne Adams introduced legislation Thursday that would drastically expand the councils power over top mayoral appointees  as City Hall already spars with lawmakers over one of the few spots they can now shoot down.

The new bill would add 20 commissioner-level spots to be subject to a confirmation process, including the heads of the Department of Transportation, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Department of Social Services.

The NYPD, FDNY and Department of Corrections would not be subject to the expanded oversight, however, the speaker hinted that the council could push to add them to the list later.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams put the bill forward Thursday. Robert Miller

This is a start for us, Adams told reporters in City Hall Thursday.

Certain agencies we stayed off of uniformed, first responders and associated agencies. So we stayed off of them. We really want to take a look at the agencies that we felt were strong agencies, of course, but again this is just the beginning.

The council currently only has the power to vote down a few top mayoral appointees, including the commissioner for the Department of Investigations and the citys corporation counsel, who is in charge of the Law Department.

Under the change, which would have to be voted on via a ballot referendum, the council would also be tasked with voting on mayoral picks for the heads of the departments of buildings, childrens services, citywide administrative services, consumer and worker protection, emergency management, environmental protection, finance, homeless services, veterans services, youth and community development and others.

The speaker floated the new legislation during a closed-door meeting with city Dems last week, The Post reported.

At the same time, City Hall has been trying to convince lawmakers behind closed doors to get on board with Mayor Eric Adams replacement for corporation counsel, Randy Mastro, according to council sources.

The veteran litigator has had a number of meetings with council members over recent weeks, making his case that he wont just furiously fight for the mayor but for New York City and everyone in government, sources said.

Mastro, who was chief of staff and deputy mayor for Rudy Giuliani and has eyed the top spot in the Law Department for years, has a reputation as a legal bulldog but has proved to be a divisive pick among council members.

Randy Mastro has yet to be formally put forward as the mayors pick for the next corporation counsel. Getty Images for National Geographic

Mayor Adams, who has no relation to the speaker, has not yet formally put forward Matro as his pick to succeed Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix, who has reportedly been pushed out after a series of legal disagreements, including the city repping the mayor in a decades-old sexual misconduct case.

After news of the potential additional council powers was made public, Mayor Adams announced his own commission, filled with a number of close allies, to review and advise on revision to the city charter.

The councils proposed legislation would broaden the advice-and-consent section of the charter.

Together, this group will look for ways to ensure that this city is working as efficiently as possible for all of our residents and delivering a city government that reflects the needs and aspirations of the millions of working-class New Yorkers who call the five boroughs home, Adams said Wednesday of the 13-person commission.

Carlo Scissura, who previously served as charter commissioner under the two prior administrations and is currently the head of the New York Building Congress, had reportedly been considered by Mayor Adams to be the citys economic czar but backed out after The City reported on ethical concerns over his work.

Council members have raised concerns over the timing of the commission, saying the move was payback for floating the charter change to add more oversight.

After the potential added oversight became public, Mayor Adams announced a charter revision commissioner. William Farrington

The timing is convenient, Speaker Adams said Thursday of the commission.

But City Hall has maintained that talks about the 13-person panel have been in the works for months.

One member of the commission, anti-violence advocate Jackie Rowe-Adams, who was also one of the women who came to the mayors defense after a bombshell sexual misconduct lawsuit was filed, raised concerns over the councils current powers back in April following the override of the How Many Stops Act, Politico reported.

That sparked a meeting the next month where school safety activist Mona Davids floated the idea of a charter revision commission since the public was not able to speak before the council overrode the mayors veto, the outlet reported.
Getty Images photo of voters in line.

In 2012, I had just graduated from college and I was looking for my first job after finishing up my Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at Denison University.

I had spent one summer in college studying redistricting, trying to estimate the impact of redistricting on representation. Gerrymandering always struck me as fundamentally unfair, a violation of the tenets of democracy. It seemed to represent the most cynical impulses of political leaders: to consolidate power at the expense of the tenets of popular government.

I ended up interning for an ill-fated campaign to reform redistricting in Ohio. Today, over a decade later, we are still fighting for a fair system for drawing districts in the state.

Many claim gerrymandering is the source of political polarization in Ohio. While it may have some impact on polarization in state politics, I now think gerrymandering is a symptom of a much deeper political sickness in our state.

Ohio certainly has leaders who have a sincere faith in democratic institutions, but there are others who have cynically joined the trend to erode institutions that keep our democracy strong. Whether it is a $60 million bribe for a sweetheart deal to increase energy rates or historically-low levels of lawmaking, we keep seeing signs that democracy in Ohio is in peril.

Democracy has inherent value: allowing people to determine their own government is good in itself. Democracy has also been found to be associated with more consistent good outcomes for residents of democratic countries. These range from better educational outcomes, more food and housing security, to better health and employment outcomes.

Most recently, Vanessa Williams of the Brookings Institutions Governance Studies program wrote an insightful piece on the impacts of democratic erosion on economic growth. One finding she shared was from a recent study from the American Economic Review concluding countries with populist leaders, whether on the right or left, see a 10 percent decline in GDP per capita over the first 15 years.

Economists have argued for centuries that strong economies stand on strong institutions. People will only trade openly, invest dollars rather than hoard them or spend them frivolously, and take risks by creating new businesses or spending precious time creating new goods and service if they can use the past as a strong predictor of the future and know with some certainty that their investments will be safe in that future.

Compared to a government based on strong democratic institutions, a government based on strong leaders who claim a populist mandate to rewrite institutions creates instability that ripples out into the economy. That means the pie gets smaller: we all get poorer as our democracy gets weaker.

Williamson talks about the kinds of industries that suffer under a declining democracy.

Industries with high exposure to government decisions are endangered by capricious decision making by policymakers. This is how we get to $2 billion power plant bailouts shepherded into being with $60 million bribes.

Industries reliant on public investments or public services lose value as policymakers focus less on creating a strong environment for the economy and more on their self-interest. Ohio prides itself on its strategic location as a hub for logistics and shipping, but if road quality investments are driven by politics rather than strategic investment, it can push businesses in the transportation industry to look elsewhere for their investments.

Businesses investing on a longer time horizon lose the ability to trust macroeconomic stability will be ensured by policymakers. Young people move away as they gravitate toward places with better economic prospects. Media gets weaker as politicians make it their enemy. Scientists, doctors, and educators move to places where they can freely practice their professions. And tourists shun these places for others with less strife and violence.

Democracy is good in itself. Democracy is good for its people. Democracy is good for the economy. Ohios future will depend on leaders who care more about this than their own myopic interests.

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Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. (Photo courtesy of WSYX.)

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has called the lawmakers into a special session to pass legislation to ensure President Joe Biden will be on the November ballot. This comes after a month of controversy surrounding the debacle.

In a surprise press conference on Thursday evening, DeWine condemned the General Assembly for their lack of action to fix an obscure law that will prevent Biden from being a choice for voters.

Ohio is running out of time to get Joe Biden, sitting president of the United States, on the ballot this fall, DeWine said. Failing to do so is simply not acceptable. This is ridiculous; this is an absurd situation.

Ohio requires parties to confirm their presidential candidates 90 days before the Nov. election, which would be Aug. 7. But Biden wont be the official nominee until the Democratic National Convention, which is on Aug. 19.

Democratic leaders were unaware of this, and plenty of other lawmakers across the aisle also didnt know. Sec. of State Frank LaRose didnt remind Dems until April.

DeWine has been urging lawmakers to do this since the warning was raised by LaRose, but the GOP leaders have been disagreeing on the way to do it.

The House has its own version and the Senate has theirs.

The House was a clean bill that changed the nomination deadline to 74 days. This would likely be a permanent fix.

But the Senate passed a separate bill. It changed the nominating deadline from Aug. 7 to Aug. 23  but only for 2024, so it wasnt a permanent fix.

However, the Senate added in Senate Bill 215, a campaign finance bill. In early March, Republican senators passed legislation meant to stop foreign donations to state ballot-issue campaigns, but Democrats argued the bill goes too far, as it has a provision that could make it harder for grassroots movements to get on the ballot  even with U.S. dollars.

The House doesnt seem to like this, so they ignored it.

The leaders of each chamber are fighting with each other, which is also a likely culprit for why nothing is moving.

The purpose of this session will be for the General Assembly to pass legislation ensuring that both major presidential candidates will be on the Ohio ballot in November, DeWine said.

DeWine advocated for the vehicle to be the Senates version.

I think when you ask most Ohioans, they would think that its a ridiculous situation that foreign nationals can come into the state of Ohio, or not even come into the state of Ohio, and spend a significant amount of money to affect an Ohio ballot issue, DeWine said. We do not allow them to do that for candidates. Why in the world should we allow them to do that for a ballot issue? The Senate has already passed legislation in this regard. So clearly,  this issue should be debated and shouldnt be dealt with one way or the other.

Senate GOP spokesperson John Fortney issued a statement following the governors press conference:

We agree with the Governor. It is time to protect Ohios elections by outlawing foreign campaign contributions, while at the same time fixing the Democratic Partys error that kept Joe Biden off the November ballot. We encourage the Speaker and Minority Leader to allow a vote on House Bill 114 which does both.

Fortney seemingly suggests that Minority Leader Allison Russo is preventing the bill from hitting the floor  despite Stephens having a supermajority of Republicans. Stephens has been accused of being too close with the Democrats and allowing Russo to make decisions. The speaker has denied this, and so has Russo.

House Speaker Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) gave a lengthy statement.

For weeks, we have been pushing to find a legislative solution to having President Biden on the ballot. Ultimately, the will to do so wasnt there in the Republican caucus.

Everyone agrees that we need to ban foreign political contributions from ballot issue campaigns in Ohio, and we have been driving towards a solution.

We have language that has input from campaign finance experts and important interested parties to deal with the issue. This is language that squarely and directly bans foreign influence in Ohios issue campaigns, while not also inadvertently limiting the rights of citizens to have their voices heard.

We look forward to real solutions that will actually pass both chambers next week and solve problems.

Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) issued the following statement regarding the special session:

This is the right call and its a reasonable compromise: Republicans keep foreign money out of our state ballot process, and both major parties nominees will be on the ballot, said Senator Vance. Remember: Donald Trump will beat Joe Biden, whether hes on the ballot or not, by 10 points. But a lot of Trump voters might sit at home if there isnt a real presidential race, and that will really hurt our down ballot races for the Senate and Congress. We need to play chess.

Follow WEWS statehouse reporter Morgan Trau on X and Facebook.

This article was originally published on News5Cleveland.com and is published in the Ohio Capital Journal under a content-sharing agreement. Unlike other OCJ articles, it is not available for free republication by other news outlets as it is owned by WEWS in Cleveland.

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The post Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine calls lawmakers into special session to fix Biden ballot debacle appeared first on Ohio Capital Journal.
Ohios governor, Mike DeWine, called for a special session of the states general assembly to pass legislation ensuring that Biden is on the state's 2024 ballot.

Ohios governor, Mike DeWine, called for a special session of the states general assembly to pass legislation ensuring that Biden is on the state's 2024 ballot. Photograph: Patrick Orsagos/AP

Ohios Republican governor, Mike DeWine, has called an emergency legislative session to put Joe Bidens name on the presidential ballot after what he called an absurd threat from the states top election officer to remove the president for missing its deadline.

For weeks, Ohios secretary of state, Frank LaRose, has been at loggerheads with the Democrats over how to put Biden and his vice-president, Kamala Harris, on the ballot given that their official nomination comes after the expiry of the states deadline of 90 days before the November election.

The Biden-Harris ticket is scheduled to be certified after its official coronation on the final day of the Democratic national convention on 22 August in Chicago, 15 days after Ohios 7 August cutoff date.

Related: Thrilled to be back: Trump swaps courtroom for Bronx in play for Hispanic and Black voters

LaRose, also a Republican, warned this week that current rules would force him to exclude Bidens name from ballot papers, denying voters in the state a full choice of presidential candidates.

He wrote to the chair of the Ohio Democratic party, Elizabeth Walters, saying the onus was on the party to change its nominating arrangements because the state legislature had ruled out amending Ohio law to accommodate Biden.

In a news conference, DeWine overrode that decision, calling the situation simply unacceptable.

Ohio is running out of time to get Joe Biden, the sitting president of the United States, on the ballot this fall, he said. Failing to do so is simply not acceptable. This is a ridiculous  this is an absurd situation.

Posting on X, LaRose  who first raised the issue last month  had earlier said he was duty bound to follow the law as Ohios chief elections officer.

Ive said from here to Colorado that its in the best interest of voters to have a choice in the race for president. Im also duty-bound to follow the law as Ohios chief elections officer.



As it stands today, the Democratic Partys presidential nominee will not be on the Ohio pic.twitter.com/Y5AkZBoow2  Frank LaRose (@FrankLaRose) May 21, 2024

As it stands today, the Democratic Partys nomination will not be on the Ohio election ballot, he wrote. That is not my choice. Its due to a conflict in the law created by the party, and the party has so far offered no legally acceptable remedy.

The Democrats had earlier suggested resolving the problem by offering a provisional nomination of Biden and Harris, a solution LaRose said fell short of the states legal standard. Democrats countered that this view was contradicted by the experience of the 2020 election when, they argued, several other states accepted a similar resolution to incompatible deadlines for both parties.

DeWines decision potentially saves the Democratic party from filing a lawsuit to force Bidens name on to the ballot.

A similar possible deadlock situation arose in Alabama, but state legislators resolved it by pushing back the certification date, with the governor quickly signing it into law.

The imbroglio has come against a backdrop of mistrust between Democrats and Republicans over elections, fuelled by Donald Trumps relentless peddling of a lie that Bidens 2020 presidential victory was stolen.

Ohio was once viewed as a swing state but has recently trended solidly Republican, with Trump triumphing over Biden by eight percentage points four years ago, and beating Hillary Clinton by a similar margin in 2016.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Thursday he was calling the states Republican-controlled legislature into special session next week to fix a timing issue that could keep President Joe Biden from appearing on the states general election ballot.

Election officials in Ohio have flagged that this summers Democratic National Convention, where Biden will be formally renominated, would take place after the states August 7 deadline for parties to submit candidates for the ballot.

The Democratic convention is scheduled to take place August 19-22, while Republicans are holding their convention in July.

DeWine, a Republican, said the Ohio legislatures failure to address the issue  something it resolved under similar scenarios in 2012 and 2020  was simply unacceptable.

Ohio is running out of time to get Joe Biden, the sitting president of the United States, on the ballot this fall, DeWine said. This is a ridiculous, this is absurd, situation.

DeWine said it was important that Ohioans have the opportunity to cast a vote for either of the major party candidates for president, US Senate and other offices.

The special session would allow the legislature to address the certification deadline but also to potentially pass a bill, which Democrats oppose, to prevent foreign spending on Ohio ballot measures. Legislative fixes to get Biden on the ballot have been tied up in fights over the foreign spending issue.

The situation in Ohio mirrored a similar one in Republican-controlled Alabama, which was resolved earlier this month when state officials enacted legislation to allow Biden to appear on the states fall ballot.

The legislation pushed out Alabamas certification deadline from 82 days before the election to 74 days, giving Democrats time to submit Bidens name after he formally becomes the nominee at their convention.

In recent years, lawmakers and state election officials have quietly resolved certification timeline issues by either enacting legislation to push back the deadline or accepting provisional certifications from political parties.

In Ohio, which requires parties to submit the names of their nominees 90 days before the general election, the path forward has been less clear. State officials have said they wont accept provisional certification.

Long a presidential swing state, Ohio has in recent years swung sharply to the right. Donald Trump carried the state by 8 points both in 2016 and 2020. And Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown, who faces a difficult reelection this year, is currently the only Democrat in nonjudicial statewide office.

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VIENTIANE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) launched a new ADB country partnership strategy for Laos, which aims to strengthen foundations for a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economy in the country.

The new strategy, covering the period 2024-2028, is aligned with the Lao government's five-year National Socio-economic Development Plan for 2021-2025, Lao National Radio on Friday quoted Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Phonevanh Outhavong as saying.

The partnership strategy is a key tool for the Lao government and the ADB to cooperate in accelerating Laos' development to achieve commitments, including sustainable economic growth, environmental protection, and enhancing the well-being of Lao people by 2025 and beyond, said Phonevanh.

Under the strategy, ADB will closely collaborate with the Lao government to promote sustainable public finance, enhance equitable access to services, and advance climate actions.

The strategy introduces comprehensive measures to promote sustainable public finance, leveraging a mix of concessional lending, grants, technical assistance, and knowledge products.

The efforts aim to reinforce the government's capabilities in debt management, state-owned enterprise reform, and governance of public finances, thereby ensuring the effective and accountable use of public funds.

The strategy will provide significant investment and knowledge support across key sectors such as agriculture, natural resource management, pollution and waste management, and disaster risk management. 
An Ohio woman was convicted and sentenced for her role in sex trafficking a 16-year-old girl through the state of Georgia.

Channel 2 Action News previously reported on the arrests and indictments of Jameesha Monique Harris and Anthony Charles Holmes, both of Cleveland, for the crimes in November. Previously, Harris and Holmes were said to have trafficked the teenager through metro Atlanta.

Now, the office of Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr says Harris entered a guilty plea and will serve decades in prison.

Officials said the teenager was reported missing out of South Carolina. During an Aug. 2, 2023 traffic stop by the Greene County Sheriffs Office, deputies found the victim, as well as more than 28 grams of cocaine and an ounce of marijuana.

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Channel 2 Action News previously reported a Greene County Sheriffs Deputy tried to pull Holmes and Harris over for a traffic stop, when Holmes sped away, causing a pursuit from Greene County to Taliaferro County, according to Carrs office.

Eventually, deputies initiated a PIT maneuver, stopping the car.

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The Georgia Bureau of Investigations Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit was called in to investigate due to multiple red flags indicating the child may be a victim of sex trafficking, the AGs office said previously.

Our Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit has secured yet another conviction after assisting in the recovery of an underage victim, Carr said in a statement. As we have seen time and again, those involved in the trafficking of a child are often engaged in other criminal activity, and they must be held accountable. By working with partners like District Attorney Wright Barksdale, the Greene County Sheriffs Office, the Taliaferro County Sheriffs Office, and GBIs HEAT Unit, we will continue to use the full force of the law to ensure traffickers are off our streets and our children are kept safe.

On April 8, Harris pled guilty to trafficking someone for sexual servitude, trafficking in cocaine and possession of marijuana.

Shes been sentenced to serve 25 years, with 10 in prison and the rest on strict probation. Upon release from jail, Harris will also have to register as a sex offender, according to Carrs office.

The case against Holmes remains ongoing.

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TULSA, Okla.  A Craig County man who abused scripture to molest an 11-year-old child was sentenced to almost 20 years in federal prison

Oklahoma man convicted of child sex acts used Bible stories to lure victim

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Lance Douglas Roark, 43, of Bluejacket, to 235 months imprisonment followed by lifetime probation if he is released from prison. Roark will also be required to register as a sex offender and pay $5,000 restitution.

Craig County man accused of raping child facing federal charges

Roark was convicted in January of two child sex crimes involving a minor under 12 years of age in Indian Country.

Roark represented himself during the trial and cross-examined the child. The child testified that Roark described Bible stories and how they could be free in who they had sex with. He also showed the pre-teen child pornography and told the child they would win the lottery if she would have sex with him, according to trial testimony.

Roark is a citizen of the Delaware Tribe of Indians and he will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

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OKALOOSA COUNTY  While it may unofficially signal the beginning of the summer season, Memorial Day weekend is a time when we can honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy all the things we love about the Emerald Coast.

Below is a list of Memorial Day celebrations in Okaloosa County.

Fort Walton Beach

Participants in Monday's Memorial Day Ceremony at Beal Memorial Cemetery in Fort Walton Beach place carnations in a memorial wreath.

On Monday, May 27, the Veterans Tribute Tower Committee will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at Beal Memorial Cemetery, beginning at 10 a.m.

Featured guests include retired Brig. Gen and Florida State Rep. Patt Maney, 7th Special Forces Group Deputy Cmdr. Col. Griffin Merrill and 96th Test Wing Deputy Cmdr. Col. Thomas Tauer.

Guests are encouraged to bring small bouquets that will be placed in the Community Wreath, as the ceremony will honor veterans who have died in the past year.

If poor weather prevents the ceremony from taking place at Beal Memorial, it will be held at American Legion Post 235, 105 Hollywood Blvd.

Okaloosa Island

The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island will hold a Memorial Day fireworks display on Sunday, May 26, beginning at 9 a.m.

To help enhance the viewing experience, event organizers will give out free light diffraction glasses while supplies last.

Memorial Day in Destin: American Legion will lead a Memorial Day ceremony at Destin Memorial Cemetery on May 27

Crestview

Crestview's Veterans Day ceremony took place at the Okaloosa County Veterans Memorial on Main Street.

On Monday, May 27, American Legion Riders Post 75 will present a Memorial Day Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park in Downtown Crestview, beginning at 10 a.m.

This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Memorial Day events in Okaloosa County
Students walk down the hall at Burroughs Elementary in Tulsa on April 8. A state budget agreement that the Oklahoma House, Senate and governor struck on Wednesday would increase funding for public schools, college facilities and CareerTech programs. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  The Oklahoma Legislature plans to boost funding for K-12 classrooms, college facilities and CareerTech programs in an education budget agreement nearing $5.6 billion.

The chief driver of public school funding, the education funding formula, would go up by $25 million in Fiscal Year 2025, should the agreement be signed into law.

This is expected to be the second consecutive increase to Oklahoma public school funding. Last year, lawmakers added $500 million to the funding formula, including $286 million in teacher pay raises, along with other multi-million-dollar initiatives.

The FY 2025 agreement, which lawmakers decided on Wednesday, sets the Oklahoma State Department of Educations budget at $3.86 billion. On its face, it looks like a cut from the agencys previous $3.97 billion appropriation, but the difference is accounted for in the way money for three-year pilot programs was spread over multiple fiscal years.

Not all legislative priorities made the final cut this year.

The state Senate pushed for a one-time stipend of $2,500 for all support staff working in public schools, like cafeteria workers, bus drivers and custodians. The House wasnt on board with the $99.67 million expense.

Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, speaks with reporters after reaching a budget agreement with the House and governor on Wednesday at the state Capitol. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

The $25 million increase to the funding formula was a compromise, said Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.

We continued our record investment, Treat said. We didnt let up the pedal on that.

Last years education package included new funding for six weeks of teacher maternity leave. The budget agreement this year creates a revolving fund separate from the funding formula for maternity leave, with $2.5 million put into it annually and a one-time supplemental addition of $2.3 million.

The budget also dedicates funds for future teachers still attending college, with $2.65 million for paid student teaching and $8.5 million for the Inspired to Teach scholarship incentives.

The agreement also resolves a conflict between the House and Senate over an issue with last years educator pay raise.

The Legislature funneled money for teacher salary increases through the education funding formula, but about 40 school districts risked being left out. These districts earn enough in local tax revenue that they receive no state aid, meaning the funds for teacher pay raises wouldnt reach them.

Leaders of the two legislative chambers disagreed on how to resolve the issue, but they settled on the Houses preference for a one-time fund of $16.1 million to reimburse the affected schools. As it stands now, the districts would have to come up with the funding themselves in future fiscal years once the one-time fund expires.

House budget negotiators attend a public session on May 15 at the state Capitol. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

Lawmakers intend to put $240 million into new engineering and science facilities at the states two largest colleges, the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University. Other higher education institutions will get a piece of a $350 million fund dedicated to addressing deferred maintenance across multiple state agencies.

Treat said the budget agreement is making sure we meet those needs for improved maintenance.

In our state, weve been good at building things, Treat said. We havent always been good about maintaining those. And so, its a lot easier to get support on cutting a ribbon than repairing an air conditioner unit.

In an attempt to shorten waitlists and admit more students, the FY 2025 budget adds $27.6 million to meet the growing demand for courses at CareerTech centers. The agency informed lawmakers earlier this year its enrollment had grown by 9.5% and had a waitlist of about 7,400 students.

CareerTech state director Brent Haken requested extra funding to hire more instructors for high-demand vocational programs, which feed into the Oklahomas labor force.

Some may see it as growing government, Haken said of the request at a Feb. 14 meeting with a Senate budget subcommittee. What I see it as is its growing Oklahoma. Its growing our opportunity to do better in this state to recruit businesses. Its growing opportunity for people to have great lives, to build hope in their lives and to raise their families.

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The post Oklahoma budget agreement adds funds to public schools, colleges, CareerTech appeared first on Oklahoma Voice.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The Oklahoma National Guard Office of Public Affairs is inviting the public to the annual Memorial Day ceremony, hosted by the Oklahoma National Guard Museum.

According to The Oklahoma Military Department, the ceremony will be held May 27, 2024 at 10 a.m. at the Oklahoma National Guard Museum, located at 2145 Northeast 36th Street in Oklahoma City. Members of the 145th Army Band are scheduled to begin playing at 9:30 a.m.

Another big severe weather day in the forecast for Saturday. Heres the latest Tornado Risk.

The keynote speaker for the event this year is Brig. Gen. Christopher Eason, who currently serves as assistant adjutant general for the Oklahoma Air National Guard. Brig. Gen. Eason is responsible for the combat readiness and operational effectiveness of all OKANG units.

The event is open to the public and limited parking is available on the museum grounds. Overflow parking is available at the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety facility directly across Northeast 36th Street from the Museum.

Information on the Oklahoma National Guard Museum can be found at okngmuseum.com.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Gov. Kevin Stitt on Friday said he was concerned that the Senate had not confirmed some of his gubernatorial appointments. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Gov. Kevin Stitt said Friday he was concerned the Senate would not confirm six of his appointees to serve on his cabinet and in other oversight posts.

Stitt said his office has gotten emails and text messages indicating the Senate will not confirm two cabinet picks, his choice for executive director of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, and three people hes tapped to serve on boards that oversee education, libraries and wildlife.

Oklahomans elected me as governor to put my values on boards and commissions and running different agencies, Stitt said. I think we need these great Oklahomans across the finish line to serve in their capacity.

Some of Stitts appointments are subject to Senate confirmation. The senator whose district the nominee lives in usually carries the nomination.

In the past, the Senate usually rubber stamped gubernatorial appointments.

But Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, has vowed a more thorough vetting process.

Stitt said his nomination of Dr. Corey Finch has faced pushback. He selected him to serve as health and mental health cabinet secretary.

Finch would be the first ever African American to serve in that post, Stitt said. Finch is a veteran, medical doctor and business owner, Stitt said.

Stitt said the Senate is resistant to confirming Dr. Deborah Shropshire as human services cabinet secretary. She worked for the Department of Human Services for several years, particularly in the area of child advocacy, before being tapped to lead the agency, Stitt said.

He said it was weird that she might not be able to serve in his cabinet.

Stitt and three of his cabinet secretaries, including Shropshire, in March sued Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond challenging Drummonds interpretation of rules governing dual office holding.

Drummond had issued an opinion that said cabinet secretaries could not hold dual offices, resulting in the immediate resignation of two.

Stitt also tapped Heather Turner, president of the Jenks Chamber of Commerce, to serve as executive director of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

We talked her into coming and serving the state in this capacity, Stitt said. And so shes been there four weeks. I would hate to see her get fired from that position. So, I am anxious to see that vote on the floor as well.

Treat said Thursday that there were some really big concerns about Turner, but Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, was willing to carry her nomination. Treat did not elaborate.

Stitt nominated Alex Gray to serve on the State Board of Education. Gray previously worked in the Trump administration, Stitt said.

Alex Gray is one of the smartest guys I know, and he wants to give back to the state, Stitt said.

Stitt also appointed Audrey Katigan to serve on the Oklahoma Department of Libraries Board and Leigh Gaddis to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Gaddis currently chairs the commission and was first appointed by Gov. Mary Fallin in 2014.

Earlier this year, Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, announced she would not carry the nominations of Gray and Katigan, citing concerns over qualifications.

Stitt said it is difficult to get qualified individuals to serve.

Weve got one week left, Stitt said. So, hopefully we can get all these good Oklahomans that are coming in serving their state across the finish line.

Treat was asked Friday about Stitts remarks.

Senators take the responsibility of confirming executive nominations seriously, Treat said. We have already confirmed a good number of them, and I have personally carried some through the process.

Fully vetting each nominee takes time and the Senate is doing its job as it has always done to meet this obligation.

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The post Oklahoma Senate reluctant to approve some gubernatorial appointments appeared first on Oklahoma Voice.
Oklahoma students are experiencing mental health challenges. The Legislature must do more to help.

"What can we do to support our students struggling with mental health?" asks a guest columnist.

Many Oklahoma students are experiencing mental health challenges. The tragic events in the wake of tornadoes hitting Oklahoma are a chilling reminder that just living in Oklahoma can cause trauma due to extreme weather patterns. Furthermore, Healthy Minds Policy reports that in a statewide survey of middle and high school students in Oklahoma during the 201920 school year, 60% of students experienced high or moderate psychological distress, 17.2% of students considered suicide and 9.8% of students made at least one suicide attempt.

More: Unruly kids are poisoning Oklahoma City Public Schools | Guest opinion

Oklahoma City Public Schools cites that Oklahoma is ranked fifth in the nation with students suffering from trauma, with nearly half of students experiencing two or more adverse childhood experiences. Additionally, the school district reports the student-to-counselor ratio is 374-to-1, but the American School Counselor Association recommends a 250-to-1 ratio. To make matters worse, COVID relief funding will expire, and some of that funding supported hiring more counselors. This data shows that we need to provide our students with quality mental health care from trained professionals.

What can we do to support our students struggling with mental health? First, I encourage Oklahomans to get informed about the mental health challenges our students are currently facing. I would like to thank HealthyMindsPolicy.org for providing updated statistics on mental illness in Oklahoma and working to end untreated mental illness and addiction in Oklahoma.

Secondly, I encourage Oklahomans to reach out to our representatives and express their opinions. I would like to thank Rep. Meloyde Blancett, Sen. Dewayne Pemberton, Rep. Mark McBride, Rep. John Waldron, Rep. Ellyn Hefner, and Rep. Arturo Alonso Sandoval for authoring House Bill 2827. This bill would have created a grant program to employ school nurses, school counselors and mental health professionals. I would like to thank all the legislators who voted for this bill and similar bills, such as bills that would create a pipeline for more mental health professionals to be produced in the state of Oklahoma and provide our students with trained and qualified mental health professionals.

Mental health is an issue that affects many people, either directly or indirectly. Let's do more to help those struggling with mental health, especially our youth.

Priscilla Ramirez

Priscilla Ramirez is an educator who was a pre-K teacher for 2 1/2 years in the Oklahoma City Public Schools district.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma Legislature must do more to help with students' mental health
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry has been selected to track local temperatures to support a nationwide heat resiliency project, Oregon Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced Wednesday.

The Portland museum was selected by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to serve as the Pacific Northwest research hub for the Center for Collaborative Heat Monitoring  based at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, N.C.

Researchers will track extreme heat to help communities mitigate heat risks at a local scale for community members, policymakers, and researchers at the Center for Collaborative Heat Monitoring. The project also aims to reduce the amount of heat mortality across the United States.

3 Oregon cities are among the best places to live in the US: 2024 report

Heat is a growing health hazard around the world; tracking local heat data will be key for communities to advance their resilience strategies. Through this project, OMSI will work with at least nine groups, both urban and rural, to collect heat data to inform local, regional, and federal climate action. This effort leverages OMSI as a convener, so communities in the Pacific Northwest and nationwide can combine assets toward healthier, more equitable futures, said Marcie Benne, OMSI Director of Engagement Research and Advancement.

As the climate crisis worsens, heat is becoming an even more grave concern for vulnerable Oregonians without air conditioning as well as farmers dealing with drought and communities facing wildfires, Sen. Wyden said. We need solid, local data that help inform solutions. Ensuring accurate, real-time information from Oregons vital ecosystems and climates are included will give a broader picture of what we are challenged with as a state, region and nation.

Sen. Merkley highlighted the importance of preparing for extreme heat as climate chaos intensifies, adding, The data that OMSI and their research partners collect will allow us to see the full picture of how severe heat impacts our communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure. Equipped with local data produced by this project, we can continue to protect Oregonians from the dangerous consequences of soaring temperatures and build resilience in our communities.

In addition to OMSI, sites in other regions will track heat at the Arizona Science Center and the Museum of Science in Boston.

The project comes after Oregon saw more than 100 deaths caused by heat during the summer of 2021, including 102 deaths occurring during the June heat dome event, and six deaths during a heatwave in August, according to the Oregon Health Authoritys Climate and Health in Oregon 2021-2022 Report.

In 2022, Oregon saw 14 heat-related deaths, OHA said, noting data for heat deaths in 2023 will be released later in 2024.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Li Hongzhong, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, mourns the passing of the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi at the Iranian embassy in China, May 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, mourned the passing of the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi at the Iranian embassy in China on Friday.

Li, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, expressed deep condolences over the tragic death of President Raisi to the Iranian government and people.

Li said that the Chinese government and people cherish the traditional friendship between China and Iran and are willing to work with Iran to push China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level.

Iranian Ambassador to China Mohsen Bakhtiar thanked Li for his condolence, stressing that Iran is committed to promoting Iran-China cooperation and is willing to work with China to push for greater development of bilateral relations. 
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A man has been arrested in connection to a deadly shooting in northwest Oklahoma City on Tuesday, May 21.

According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, officers received a call around 1 p.m. near the 7300 block of NW 10th St. about a shooting.

RELATED STORY: One person dead, suspect on the run in NW OKC shooting

MSgt. Gary Knight with OKCPD said when officers arrived, they found a man, 36-year-old Randy Mills, in the middle of the road. Officers began performing CPR on Mills before he passed away.

Officials say 25-year-old Mario Mason was arrested on Thursday, May 23, on charges of Carry or Posses Firearm by Convicted Felon and First Degree Murder.

Mario Mason.

No more information is available as the investigation continues.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Pickleball's explosion in popularity in recent years hasn't come without its fair share of pushback. Many people who live near courts are sick of the constant popping sounds, for example, while others are annoyed that spaces in parks are being cleared or renovated to accommodate pickleball courts.

One New York City resident has apparently had enough and is taking it into their own hands. In the past week, players at Riverside Park in Manhattan have shown up to the courts to find nets cut up, poles thrown in the trash, and garbage bags filled with pickleball equipment. Police and players confirmed to local outlet West Side Rag that it's happened three different times in less than a week. He appears to be deliberately targeting the pickleball operation, although his exact motivations remain unknown.

On the morning of May 18, players showed up at the courts and found a man who had taken down all five nets as well as several ball barriers and stacked the poles on the side of the court. When confronted, the man took off.

"The nets are not easy or meant to be taken apart," Riverside Park pickleball courts organizer Elizabeth Shapiro told West Side Rag. "It must have taken him hours to take them apart and stack them all up."

Related: Pickleball Courts Could Replace Dying Mall Stores Near You

They set everything back up, but the newly erected nets didn't last long. The next morning, three players arrived at the courts and found the nets and poles had disappeared entirely. Mark Hurst and the two players he was with began searching the area for the missing equipment.

"I later discovered the poles all in a garbage bag on the middle (promenade) level of the park," Hurst said. "The bag was dumped amidst 19 other garbage bags that were full of leaves, twigs, and dirt. Fortunately I was able to see the shape of the poles in the bag and retrieve it."

It was a group effort that required scouring the whole area to track down all the missing pieces. While they were able to find the nets, they were cut up and everything found was "pretty much unusable." On May 20, the pickleball hater seemingly struck for the third day in a row, with more equipment missing.

"The assumption on the first day was this guy was trying to steal the equipment and sell it, but the next day it became clear hes just a vandal who is being really destructive and disruptive," Shapiro said.

Related: How Scientists Are Trying to Make Pickleball Quieter

An NYPD representative was unable to immediately comment to Men's Journal when reached by phone, but West Side Rag reports that officers said unknown individual "did dismantle and damage pickleball nets in Riverside Park" and a report for criminal mischief was filed, but no arrests have been made. Meanwhile, the local pickleballers are using portable nets that they're locking up at the site.

It's hardly the only pickleball-related incident in the city. Last year, a turf war broke out in Manhattan's Community Board Eight on the tony Upper East Side, where residents sparred over pickleball courts taking over open space in a local park. Local outlet Upper East Site first reported the news. Meanwhile, The New York Post reported on a 2022 pickleball battle in the West Village with similar problems. Still, they largely involved community complaints and light police involvement, rather than outright vandalism.

"People have been stepping up and showing up early to set things up and staying late to lock things up," Shapiro said of the Upper West Side vandalism. "People have been donating money to a fund that was used for the new equipment."

The moral of the story here is that where there's a will, pickleballers will find a way.
Police found a man dead in Fairfield County shortly before midnight Thursday while responding to a call about a gunshot victim, they said.

According to a press release by Brad Douglas, chief deputy at Fairfield County Sheriffs Office, deputies responded to a call about a gunshot victim and found one dead victim at a residence on Comet Lane in the Jackson Creek Road area.

A further press release detailed 23-year-old Eric Mayben of Comet Drive in Winnsboro, was identified as the victim of the shooting. An autopsy was scheduled for Tuesday.

The sheriffs office is conducting a homicide investigation with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

The Fairfield County Sheriffs Office is asking that anyone with any information about this crime call 803-635-4141.

This is an ongoing story.
One jury acquitted the gunman of murder. A second convicted his unarmed girlfriend instead.

WEST PALM BEACH  Keosha Carn didn't kill 16-year-old Tamia Johnson, but she'll spend more time in prison than the gunman who did. Jurors convicted her of murder on Monday after three women testified that Carn told her boyfriend to "shoot it up" during a fight in a West Palm Beach neighborhood.

Johnson, who sat in the back of her parents' car, was close enough to hear the sound of women screaming near 17th Street and Spruce Avenue. Her stepfather said it was too dark outside to see the commotion, but he could tell things were getting out of hand. He put the car in reverse at the same moment that a stray bullet struck his daughter in the head.

Were it not for Carn, jurors agreed, Johnson would still be alive.

Their verdict set the stage for a mandatory life sentence for Carn, a 32-year-old mother of five with no prior felony convictions. Her boyfriend, Larry Young, avoided that same fate last year after he convinced a different jury that Johnson's death was an accident. They convicted the 28-year-old man of manslaughter, for which he was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

'Why are you doing this?' Woman said a man lured her to a Wellington home and raped her at knifepoint

Prosecutors still considered Carn an accessory to murder in the wake of Young's trial. Defense lawyer Mattie Fore said it would be unfair of state attorneys to try to convict Carn  "a pregnant woman who was by all accounts under threat, and who made a mere phone call at the very worst"  of first-degree murder after failing to do so to the actual gunman.

Circuit Judge Howard Coates disagreed. He's scheduled to sentence Carn to prison for murder and attempted murder on June 24. During the hearing, Assistant State Attorney Marci Rex will recount the details of Johnson's death on Dec. 10, 2021, a final time.

Family feud between gunman's girlfriend, her aunt led to fatal shooting

Keosha Carn appears in a West Palm Beach courtroom on May 20, 2024. Jurors convicted her of first-degree murder in connection with the 2021 death of 16-year-old Tamia Johnson.

The teen's killer had fled from Pleasant City by the time West Palm Beach police officers arrived, but he left behind shell casings and an indistinct memory in the heads of sisters Shalontay Ashe and Latesha Lyman. They told investigators that they saw the man's gold-plated teeth illuminated by the muzzle flash of his gun.

Young, who Ashe and Lyman said Carn told to "shoot it up" minutes before the gunfire began, has gold teeth, too.

The sisters' statements set the trajectory for the investigation. Officers used nearby license-plate readers to confirm Young's presence during the shooting. While combing through his social media accounts, they found a photo of him posing with an assault rifle.

'Ma'am, I will shoot you': Men stormed grandmother's home, stole $70,000. How they'll pay.

Officers also confiscated Carn's cellphone after they said she began to delete the more than 30 calls she made to Young during the fight that precipitated the shooting. The fight arose from a dispute between her and Ashe, who is, in addition to the state's key witness, Carn's aunt.

Carn denied ever telling Young to open fire. Her defense attorney suggested that the feud between Carn and her aunt prompted Ashe and Lyman to invent the story they told police. However, a third woman with no relationship to the sisters also told jurors that Carn said Young was on the way to "shoot this s*** up."

"Unfortunately for Tamia Johnson and her family, Larry Young was not a good shot," Rex said at the conclusion of the weeklong trial.

Jurors deliberated for an afternoon before convicting Carn of all charges.

Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Woman to serve more time for teen's death than the man who killed her
One shot at Castle Pines Mobile Home Park on Mike Padgett Hwy

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)  One person is recovering after being shot at an Augusta mobile home park.

Richmond County Deputies were dispatched to Castle Pines Mobile Home Park on Mike Padgett Highway, Friday afternoon around 12:25 p.m., in reference to a shooting.

Once there, deputies located one male victim whod been shot at least once. Hes since been transported to a local hospital for treatment.

No word yet on a suspect or motive.

Count on NewsChannel 6 for more details as they become available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Editors Note: Michael J. Broyde is a professor at Emory University School of Law and teaches legal and judicial ethics. The views expressed in this commentary are his own. Read more opinion on CNN.

Less than two weeks after rioters stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alitos lawn displayed an upside-down American flag, The New York Times reported this week. The upside-down US flag had become a symbol of the Stop the Steal movement that didnt respect the results of the 2020 election. When asked about it, Alito replied in an email to the Times that he had no involvement whatsoever in the flying of the flag, and it was briefly placed by Mrs. Alito [his wife] in response to a neighbors use of objectionable and personally insulting language on yard signs.

Michael Broyde - Courtesy of Emory University

I dont support flying the American flag upside-down, particularly when it evokes the cause of the rioters who stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, to thwart the certification of the 2020 presidential election. It was unwise for anyone to hang such a flag at that time in their home, and that such a symbol would be found on the home of a Supreme Court justice is objectionable.

But despite holding that view, I believe the calls from Democratic leaders and others for Alito to recuse himself from the cases about the January 6 attack and the 2020 election that are pending before the court are wrong. The mistake these calls make is three-fold: neither the precedent, nor the law, nor the facts mandate recusal.

Precedent first: In 2016, the late, great Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in a series of interviews called then-candidate Donald Trump a faker and more, saying, I cant imagine what this place would be  I cant imagine what the country would be  with Donald Trump as our president. She also shared that she would consider moving to New Zealand if he won (he did, and she did not). While she eventually expressed regret for her comments, she continued to sit on numerous cases in which Trump was a named party in the Supreme Court, both as president and as a private citizen.

Obviously, Ginsburg felt that her impartiality could not be reasonably questioned, even as she told everyone Trump was a faker and cast other aspersions. While many protested her remarks, I was one of the few to call for her to even consider recusing herself from all cases involving Trump. She did not end up stepping aside from a single case in which he was named. This precedent, therefore, does not direct justices to recuse themselves even if they publicly share a view on a political matter or a politician that then comes before the court.

Secondly, the law simply does not require it. Having an opinion on either the facts or the law in matters of public interest do not disqualify a justice. After all, one suspects that in all matters of public interest, justices have opinions  and they are appointed to some extent due to their opinions.

Voicing opinions on matters of public interest is also something justices do outside the courthouse from time to time. Even if one could show that any given justice thought the election was or was not stolen, that has nothing to do with the legal questions raised in the court about the charge of obstruction against the rioters, such as whether a joint session of Congress is actually an official act under the statute charged.

Justices speak about the reality as they see it all the time, and it does not legally prevent them from interpreting the statutes that they consider. Think about, for example, Justice Elena Kagans fine lecture on textualism at Harvard Law School in 2015. Having spoken about textualism (the idea that the text of the US Constitution speaks for itself as the written word), she is surely not precluded from addressing these issues from the bench as a justice.

Different rules would risk turning justices into monks  isolated from the normal give and take of discourse. American law is clear: If a rioter were a close relative of a justice, recusal would be required  and the same is true if a justice or their family had a financial stake in the guilt or innocence of a party. But having an opinion on whether the election really was stolen does not mandate recusal and neither does sharing that opinion (although such sharing is unusual for justices and generally unwise).

Finally, and most importantly, the facts do not support recusal. Alito denies hanging the upside-down flag and connects it to a personal dispute between his wife and an unnamed neighbor. No one disputes this account, and we do not disqualify a justice, or a judge, based on the conduct or opinions of their spouse other than on financial matters.

Even if the justices wife had a clear opinion on the election of 2020, recusal would not be mandated. Countless judges and justices have had spouses who have been involved in advocacy and have had clear and firm opinions  such as circuit judges Stephen Reinhardt who was married to Ramona Ripston of the American Civil Liberties Union, and Nina Pillard, who is married to David D. Cole, the national legal director of the ACLU  and have not recused themselves from hearing cases where their spouse had views or, in Reinhardts case, even filed a brief.

In this case, Alito says his wife had a social dispute with a neighbor. Certainly, disqualification of Alito based on the dispute between Martha-Ann Alito and an unnamed neighbor is uncalled for. This is an even simpler case than that of Justice Clarence Thomas and his wife Ginni Thomas, given that she is a political player involved in national Republican politics in support of Trump. Of course, as US Sen. Lindsey Graham notes, hanging a flag upside-down in anger might be bad judgement, but it is hardly grounds for recusal, Sen. Dick Durbins claim to the contrary, notwithstanding.

On Wednesday, the Times reported that another flag was flown at Alitos beach house in New Jersey last summer, the Pine Tree Flag, sometimes called the Appeal to Heaven flag, which was also carried by some rioters at the Capitol on January 6. If an upside-down flag  directly connected to the insurrectionist movement  is not grounds for recusal, this is even more so the case for this flag, since it is historically part of the American tradition. Designed by Col. Joseph Reed, who served as the personal secretary to George Washington, the flag was used by the Navy as early as 1775 and has many cultural and symbolic purposes.

Based on the law, facts and precedent, there is no reason for Alito to consider recusing himself. Furthermore, one should worry that recusal claims of this type  especially when they are being put forward by politicians who might not like how they think the justice will vote  deeply undermine the court. Recusal claims need to be neutrally applied and not something one uses against ones opposition on the bench.

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California has taken unprecedented action to spur housing production in recent years. Since 2017 the Legislature has passed nearly a hundred new laws to facilitate construction, including requiring cities to update local housing plans with more ambitious production targets. The executive branch has pursued a carrot -and- stick strategy to reward cities committed to addressing the housing crisis and penalize those that are not. And the attorney general scored recent high-profile victories in legal conflicts to advance plans for housing in the wealthy cities of Malibu , Huntington Beach and La Canada Flintridge .

Yet Californias approach to land-use reform has not had the tangible impact on housing production and affordability seen in other states (such as Texas ) and countries (such as New Zealand ). These places have significantly changed land-use regulations and expedited construction by preventing local governments from denying permits through other means.

Read more: La Canada Flintridge must process builders remedy affordable-housing plan, court rules

Meanwhile, California is not on track to reach its 2022 goal of building 2.5 million units by 2030 . In recent years, weve permitted only an average of around 110,000 units annually . Updated housing plans across the state include zoning changes to allow for roughly 750,000 new homes, and the state estimates that the pending developments of more than 6,500 units have been unlocked due to its oversight. This is progress, but still insufficient to improve affordability and stem population losses driven by the high cost of living . The state government must expand the scope and speed of land-use reforms, with all cities, including wealthy and recalcitrant enclaves, doing their part.

Consider Malibu. After the city dragged its feet on its mandated housing plan, which was due in 2021 , the attorney general petitioned the courts to intervene in April. Malibu settled with the state, agreeing to adopt a compliant plan by mid-September . In effect, the city was allowed to delay its plan update  and any new housing it may have produced  for almost three years without significant consequences.

And Malibu is not alone. Nearly a quarter of Southern California cities still lack state-approved plans to accommodate new housing development and implement fair housing policies. While these cities dawdle, the regions residents suffer the effects of the housing shortage: high rents, overcrowding, eviction and homelessness. Given how far behind the state is in its goal to meet housing demands, stronger penalties and plans are needed.

Read more: Mayor Bass' ambitious housing program calls on L.A.'s wealthy. Can she pull it off?

Senate Bill 1037 from state Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), which would give existing laws more teeth, is one welcome start and recently passed in the Senate. Legislators should also strengthen the builders remedy law to incentivize cities to create compliant plans by allowing certain projects to bypass zoning rules, providing more clarity for developers.

Resistance from towns is not the only obstacle to construction. The state-mandated housing plan framework also bears responsibility, as it allows cities up to three years after finalizing their housing plans to change zoning. This multistep framework has enabled Los Angeles to propose bold, acclaimed reforms in its original plan only to whittle away its most effective provisions in the following years.

Another source of delays is the California Environmental Quality Act, which requires the review of rezoning proposals for potential environmental impact. While that may sound beneficial, it means many new housing development opportunities wont be available until nearly halfway through the eight-year planning period. New housing on already built-up urban land, which helps reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by allowing people to live closer to jobs and amenities, shouldnt be subject to the same environmental review as development on open space.

Read more: Opinion: The future of Los Angeles housing can learn from Silver Lake, Fairfax and Crenshaw

One solution would be to exempt zone changes proposed in local housing plans from CEQA. Legislators could expand SB 10, a 2021 law that allows cities to forgo CEQA review for modest increases in allowed building density in limited locations, to permit greater increases across already-developed areas. This could empower pro-housing cities to change their zoning more quickly and remove an excuse that anti-housing cities use to delay growth. Additionally, local governments can use environmental review to drag out project approvals indefinitely, which contradicts streamlining provisions in state housing law . The Legislature should reconcile these two statutes.

When at long last cities do adopt their plans, they are often inadequate , falling short of meaningful improvements to housing affordability and access. They are also often unfair: Our ongoing research shows that most California cities concentrate new housing sites in their lower-income neighborhoods. This not only conflicts with fair housing goals; it also reduces the amount of housing developers will build and leaves on the table the many units that could be added to higher-income neighborhoods. State regulators should respond by requiring objective, performance-based metrics, such as the Fair Housing Land Use Score , to ensure all neighborhoods take on their fair share of development.

California is earning national recognition for its action on housing, partly due to high-profile state-local conflicts exemplified by the Malibu case. The Legislature and governor have taken on some tough fights with important symbolic value. But if our leaders are serious about improving housing conditions for the majority of Californians, that symbolism must be matched by more substantial reform of state housing and environmental laws.

Paavo Monkkonen is a professor of urban planning and public policy at UCLA. Aaron Barrall is a housing data analyst at the UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Earlier this month, the European Union celebrated the 20th anniversary of its biggest-ever enlargement, which brought 10 new members into the bloc. That event remains a potent reminder of the EUs potential to advance peace and unity across the European continent. But, at a time of deep internal divisions and an increasingly volatile external environment, the giddy idealism of 2004 seems a distant dream, and the prospects of further enlargement appear uncertain.

The promise of EU accession has been long considered a powerful mechanism for strengthening stability, democracy, and prosperity across the continent. The addition of Portugal and Spain in the 1980s  democratic transitions in both countries  exemplified this dynamic.

But by 2004, when eight post-communist countries (and Malta and Cyprus) joined, not to mention the 2007 accession of Bulgaria and Romania, the logic of enlargement had shifted. Expanding the single market and fortifying the foundations of democracy across Europe were still critical objectives.

But by welcoming Central and Eastern European countries into the European family, the EU was also demonstrating that it had overcome its past of war and division. The EUs new members, for their part, welcomed the chance to escape centuries of limbo between Russia and the West, even though Russia no longer seemed to pose much of a threat to its neighbors, at least in the eyes of the Union.

Read also: Opinion: Russias shadow fleet strategy draws from Irans playbook

Today, with a war raging on Europes doorstep, there is no question that Russia is dangerous. Just four days after the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine applied for EU membership. Driven by a sense of moral responsibility, rather than genuine enthusiasm for further enlargement, the bloc quickly granted it candidate status. There are now nine recognized candidates for EU membership, mainly in Eastern Europe.

But, while the 2004 Big Bang was a success, it cannot serve as a model for future enlargement. Each accession brings its own challenges, which demand nuanced solutions. One key challenge today  which has undermined the old EU enlargement narrative  is democratic backsliding in some member countries.

Most notably, Hungary has clashed repeatedly with the EU over the anti-democratic policies pursued by Prime Minister Viktor Orban since he returned to power in 2010. In Poland, an Orban-emulating right-wing government was replaced last year by a three-party coalition committed to shoring up democracy, but tensions persist. Slovakias populist-nationalist prime minister, Robert Fico, was recently the target of an assassination attempt.

This trend has undermined EU-level decisionmaking, with national interests often trumping the will of the majority. For example, Orban repeatedly blocked EU support for Ukraine and has cultivated closer trade and investment ties with China at a time when other EU members are seeking to reduce their dependence on the Chinese market. Budapest was one of only three stops Chinese President Xi Jinping made on his recent trip to Europe, and he and Orban announced that their countries will form an all-weather partnership.

Georgian police officers stand guard as protestors demonstrate against the Russian-inspired "foreign agent" law introduced by the Georgian government in Tbilisi, Georgia, on May 14, 2024. (Mirian Meladze/Anadolu via Getty Images)

More broadly, the EUs vision for the future  from its ambitious European Green Deal to its approach to migration  faces considerable resistance, dampening enthusiasm for further integration and enlargement. If the EU institutions are struggling to chart a common vision for 27 member states, how can they possibly accommodate as many as 36? After all, this new EU would not only be bigger; it would also be more diverse.

The enlargement debate has never been free of questions of geographical determinism. But, recognizing the geopolitical and economic advantages of wider membership, the EU sought to avoid potential conflicts not by excluding countries on geographical grounds, but rather by updating its accession policy to include conditionality. If a country wants to join the EU, it must meet certain standards in a range of areas, from minority rights to judicial independence. This helps to explain why Turkeys accession process is indefinitely stalled, despite its candidacy being a geopolitical no-brainer.

Can Georgia, which applied for EU membership in 2022, prove more successful at meeting the conditions for EU membership? That now seems unlikely, judging by the governments recent effort to enact a Russian-inspired foreign agent law requiring civil-society groups and independent media that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as organizations bearing the interests of a foreign power. Though the law was vetoed by President Salome Zourabichvili and, more importantly, sparked massive protests by a population that overwhelmingly supports EU accession, the government appears unmoved and is ramming the bill through.

Serbia is hardly in a better position. Though the country has been an EU accession candidate since 2012, only 33% of Serbians want to join, according to a 2023 survey. Xi also stopped in Belgrade during his recent European tour, signing an agreement to build a shared future with Serbia.

Read also: Opinion: Navigating the Zelensky Legitimacy Question

As for Ukraine, its ongoing war with Russia is not the only barrier to EU membership. Far-reaching economic and governance reforms would be needed to meet accession criteria. Moreover, the countrys vast agricultural sector has raised competition concerns among EU farmers.

If a new, larger EU is to function, creative solutions will be needed. Many have advocated a multi-speed Europe, in which member countries move toward integration at their own rate, with a set of vanguard countries leading the way. But in the absence of a common vision for the future  meaning different objectives, not just different capacities for integration  what is really needed is a Europe of variable geometry, which offers a more pragmatic approach to integration in the face of irreconcilable differences.

Today, the EU is at risk of becoming the chessboard on which struggles between the United States and China play out, rather than a player in its own right. How it navigates the enlargement debate  including its success in updating and streamlining decision-making  will help determine whether this risk materializes.

Editors Note: Copyright, Project Syndicate. This article was published by Project Syndicate on May 23, 2024, and has been republished by the Kyiv Independent with permission. The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.

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The West has been hyping up its ill-advised "overcapacity" narrative again, this time targeting China. Four decades ago, the narrative was aimed at Japan. In fact, "Japan bashing" was all the rage in the 1980s, as the island nation was perceived by many in the US as a threat to the US economy. In 1987, several US Congress members, swinging sledgehammers, demolished a Toshiba radio in the Capitol, acting out their anger at allegations that a subsidiary of the Japanese electronics conglomerate had joined a Norwegian company to sell submarine technology to the Soviet Union.

Typically, no such theatrical protest targeted Norwegian products.

The protest took place at a time when many in the West, politicians in particular, feared that Japan would overtake the United States as the world's biggest economy. Of course, it was nothing but mass delusion, similar to the anti-China hysteria that emerged in the late 19th century in response to Chinese laborers arriving in North America and willing to work harder for lower wages than their white counterparts.

EU shouldn't follow in US footsteps

As US political scientist John Mueller said in an article in December last year, the angst over Japan's economic growth and business practices was intense and widespread in the West, in the US in particular, in the 1980s. In the article, headlined "Remember when Japan was going to take over the world?", Mueller quotes US political scientist Samuel Huntington as saying that "economics is the continuation of war by other means"  a variation of German military theorist Carl von Clausewitz's famous aphorism that "war is the continuation of policy with other means".

Besides, economist, public policy analyst and Columbia University professor Jeffrey D. Sachs said "US badmouthing of more competitive China impudent", adding that the latest campaign of the United States against China is the charge that the latter has overcapacity in a range of manufactured goods and so should restrain its exports.

I concur with Sachs' view that truth is simpler. China and other East Asian countries are the low-cost producers of a range of high-quality industrial products that the world urgently needs, including solar photovoltaic panel, electric vehicles, advanced batteries, wind turbines, 5G and more. Since the US lags behind China in these sectors, Washington is badmouthing Beijing as if achieving success in these sectors is some kind of bad behavior.

Sachs added that the US approach to China is based on a mix of arrogance, nastiness and naivete. A toxic cocktail indeed. The Columbia University professor also emphasized that the US wants Europe to partly close its markets to China's goods.

How the European Union responds to this remains to be seen, though much depends on the outcome of the June 9 European Parliament elections that will determine the composition of the 27-nation European Commission, which currently is headed by Ursula von der Leyen. She is running for re-election and seems to have Washington's ear as far as the West's politico-economic relations with Beijing are concerned.

Von der Leyen has echoed US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's repeated claims about China's alleged overcapacity. Considering that both Von der Leyen and Yellen studied economics, I am puzzled that they have been continuously harping upon China's overcapacity narrative. As trained economists, they should know better. Though both are also senior politicians, it is disappointing to see them engaging in the politically motivated "China's overcapacity "narrative.

However, President Xi Jinping told both Von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on May 6 that there is no such thing as "China's overcapacity problem", adding that he hoped EU institutions would develop the right perception about China and adopt a positive China policy.

Overcapacity an old phenomenon

A person with even a modicum of knowledge about economics would know that overcapacity  too many products and too high production capacity with too few buyers  is an age-old phenomenon studied by economists as different in their analyses as Adam Smith and Karl Marx.

Harvard Business School editor Garry Emmons said in a markedly didactical article, headlined "Too Much of a Good Thing?", which was published way back in 1999 that "overcapacity per se isn't necessarily bad. With excess supply, prices go down; that's good for those industries benefiting from low-priced materials or commodities In addition, overcapacity often springs from innovation  and an improved product muscles into the market alongside previous versions, now rendered passe."

Also, Emmons reaffirmed that "excess capacity is often in the eyes of the beholder."

Large economies such as the US, China, Germany and Japan are tackling the phenomenon all the time on the entrepreneurial level. Thanks to their "overcapacity" the four countries are able to supply the rest of the world with a wide range of goods that much smaller economies are not able or willing to produce and export.

It is in this context that Brussels-based Chinese diplomat Peng Gang, in his recent article, headlined "The flawed logic behind the so-called 'overcapacity' of China's new energy sector", reaffirmed that "overcapacity is a comparative concept".

According to Peng, China's new energy competitiveness is not because of subsidies, but due to Chinese enterprises' technological innovations, hard work and market competition. Peng says that in 2023, the production and sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in China reached 9.58 million and 9.49 million units respectively, basically striking a balance between production and sales, of which domestic sales accounted for 87.3 percent and foreign exports only 12.7 percent. In particular, Peng notes that China's EVs are popular among consumers in the EU and other regions of the world.

I share his viewpoint that new energy is the common future for humankind and that "at present, the global new energy capacity is far from enough and still needs to be significantly improved. There is no such overcapacity at all."

The West's "Chinese overcapacity" comes on the heels of the West's "decoupling" and "de-risking" strategy both of which failed to gain traction. The "overcapacity" claim appears to be the West's response to its failures on the EV development front, with the US imposing sky-high tariffs on EVs and some other products from China.

I find it puzzling that the products made to help the world tackle the climate crisis are now subject to huge customs duties. Interestingly, top executives of the German auto industry, which is vital to keeping the EU's economy running, have come out against the tariffs, and so have German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Both did so to safeguard their respective national interests.

Tariffs on Chinese products misguided

An editorial in the Financial Times, headlined "A misguided move on Chinese tariffs", published last week, says the Joe Biden administration's 100 percent tariff on EVs carries more bark than bite, because the US imports just 2 percent of its EVs from China.

The article also says that in the long run, tariff hikes insulate US industries from competition, stymieing innovation and raising the costs for consumers. And it concludes that Biden's tariff move is mostly about optics, targeted at appeasing voters in the US' industrial belt including the swing states of Pennsylvania and Michigan. According to the FT article, the measures risk turning the US presidential election campaign into a bidding war on China hawkishness.

US-China ties are the world's most important bilateral relationship, politically, economically and militarily, as the two sides are working on addressing the climate crisis, resolving regional conflicts, alleviating poverty and tackling other common issues.

The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence will celebrate its 70th anniversary next month. And even after seven decades, they offer the right framework for establishing win-win partnership between Beijing and Washington.

Accordingly, the "San Francisco Vision "the Xi-Biden meeting launched last year charted the direction for stable and sustainable China-US relations. But the US' misguided "Chinese overcapacity" narrative and steep tariff hikes on Chinese-made eco-friendly products, including EVs, are incompatible with the San Francisco Vision.

The author is director of the Macau Post Daily. The views dont necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

If you have a specific expertise, or would like to share your thought about our stories, then send us your writings at opinion@chinadaily.com.cn, and comment@chinadaily.com.cn.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea in Beijing, capital of China, May 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea on Friday in Beijing.

Han noted that China and Cambodia are good neighbors, good friends and good partners. Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and Prime Minister Hun Manet twice last year, and has maintained strategic communication with Samdech Techo Hun Sen. They reached important consensus on building a high-quality, high-level, and high-standard China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era.

China attaches great importance to and is committed to deepening comprehensive strategic cooperation with Cambodia, Han said.

China is willing to continuously enrich the Diamond Hexagon cooperation framework, promote synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and Cambodia's Pentagonal Strategy, advance projects to build the Industrial Development Corridor and the Fish and Rice Corridor, organize a series of activities for the China-Cambodia People-to-People Exchange Year 2024, and promote greater development in building the China-Cambodia community with a shared future, Han added.

Sok Chenda Sophea said the new Cambodian government will make every effort to carry forward the traditional friendship between Cambodia and China, firmly abide by the one-China principle, strengthen practical cooperation with China in various fields and push forward bilateral relations. 

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea in Beijing, capital of China, May 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)
Editors Note: Kerri Kennedy is the associate general secretary for international programs at the American Friends Service Committee. The views expressed in this commentary are her own. Read more opinions at CNN.

Earlier this month, our team of humanitarian workers had to stop distributing aid in Gaza. Like most of the population there, our aid workers urgently needed to find new places for themselves and their families to shelter.

Kerri Kennedy - American Friends Service Committee

In recent weeks, Israel airdropped leaflets on eastern Rafah, instructing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to move to areas that have already been destroyed. Israeli airstrikes were intensifying, and the ground invasion was about to begin.

Almost all humanitarian aid providers were operating out of Rafah, including my colleagues from the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC). Our staff in Gaza had been serving hot meals from open-air kitchens and hosting recreational activities for children and teens.

Since October, the team in Gaza has provided lifesaving humanitarian aid to more than half a million people. They continued to provide this aid even as they faced unbearable personal trauma. Their homes had been bombed. They had been forced to relocate over and over in search of a safety that does not exist. Dozens of their family members had been killed by air strikes.

Our office in Gaza City, located within a protected and deconflicted building, was bombed on October 9  we dont know if it is still standing. In Rafah, our staff were living in a compound with dozens of other families while continuing to organize the complex logistics of providing humanitarian aid. Now they are again seeking shelter.

In recent days, hundreds of thousands of people have fled Rafah, fearing for their lives. Prior to this latest Israeli operation, there had been 1.4 million Palestinians in Rafah, most of whom had already been forcibly displaced from elsewhere. This included over 600,000 children, nearly all of whom were sick, severely traumatized, injured or malnourished. More children have been killed in Gaza over the last seven months than in all global conflicts combined between 2019 and 2022.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has intermittently blocked aid from entering at the Kerem Shalom crossing. Israel has seized and closed the Rafah crossing since launching their military invasion of the southern border. Rubble and active hostilities are blocking passage of both trucks and people. Both crossings have been completely destroyed on the Palestinian side by the Israeli army. Israeli settlers are attacking aid trucks and destroying food stores.

Palestinians line up for a meal in Rafah. - Fatima Shbair/AP

On May 1, an AFSC truck loaded with 960 bags of flour was attacked by Israeli settlers on its way from Amman to Gaza, an attack detailed in a UN report. Our aid trucks in Egypt are among hundreds that have not been allowed to enter.

Egypt has also been reluctant to open its border through Kerem Shalom after Israel seized the Gaza side of the crossing. But on Friday the Biden administration announced that Egypt had agreed to temporarily open the border to allow aid through. This is a step in the right direction.

Israel has a legal obligation under international law to ensure the delivery of aid to meet humanitarian needs of Gazans. Instead, it is depriving the entire population there of access to food, water, medical supplies and other necessities of life.

Closing the Rafah crossing stops life-saving aid from reaching people who desperately need it. It also stops the delivery of the fuel needed for humanitarian operations. We are hearing that existing fuel stocks will be depleted within days. Bakeries, water treatment and desalination plants and remaining sewage pumping stations are among the many facilities that will be affected.

AFSC has been supporting humanitarian and justice efforts in Gaza since 1948. The United Nations asked us to support refugees who were forcibly displaced from their homes to Gaza, and we set up refugee camps and provided food aid.

I first visited Gaza over a decade ago in my role overseeing the peace and humanitarian work that AFSC does around the world. Our teams operate in many conflict zones  Myanmar and Sudan among them. Despite 25 years of experience leading operations in complex circumstances, I was struck by the extreme sequestration of Gaza.

It took months for Israel to approve my visit. I traveled to the Erez crossing on the northern section of Gaza and went through several Israeli checkpoints and screenings and then a long metal tunnel. As a humanitarian worker with a US passport, I was able to cross the border. But for many years, few Palestinians were able to leave without permission from the Israeli government. Now it is almost impossible.

A truck carrying humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip passes through the Kerem Shalom Crossing in southern Israel last March. - Ohad Zwigenberg/AP

The Gaza Strip is a small area, about the size of Detroit. It has been under an Israeli blockade for 17 years that has limited movement and trade, and controlled electricity and access to water. Today, Gaza is completely inaccessible by standard humanitarian procedures. Seventy percent of Gazans face a catastrophic risk of starvation.

The Palestinians who were told by the Israeli government to evacuate to Rafah are stuck. Now theyve been told to move once again but have nowhere to go: Most of the buildings in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed. Reports estimate that it will take 14 years just to clear the rubble.

There has been broad global agreement that an attack on Rafah would cause an alarming increase in civilian deaths and exacerbate the unprecedented humanitarian crisis. Many leaders around the world, including President Joe Biden, have spoken out against an invasion of Rafah, treating it as a red line. In the US Congress meanwhile, 57 lawmakers signed a letter opposing an invasion and calling on the US to withhold the transfer of any offensive weapons to Israel if it moves forward.

Biden paused a shipment of 2,000 pound bombs and other heavy artillery to Israel. But thats not nearly enough  especially not while he moves forward as planned with another billion-dollar arms sale to the Israeli government. This new arms deal includes millions for tank ammunition and mortar rounds. But for the people of Gaza, there is no consolation in being killed by a US-made bullet rather than a US-made bomb.

In Gaza, children are dying every day. Thousands of families are on the move in a desperate search for safe quarters. We must preserve international humanitarian law and prevent further death and starvation. An attack on the last nominally safe space in Gaza violates all rules of war.

President Biden must surely know that this is a line that cannot be crossed. He has the power to insist that Israel adhere to international humanitarian and human rights law, allow unimpeded humanitarian access, and agree to a cease-fire.

Without US military support, Israel will likely need to change course. For the integrity of our long-established humanitarian conventions  and in the name of our collective humanity  we must stop the killing in Gaza.

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The Russian military is waging "a serious and difficult war" against Ukraine, and its capabilities are "far exceeded" by NATO, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban told public radio on May 24, according to news portal Telex.

"If the Russians were strong enough to wrestle down the Ukrainians in one go, they would have done so already," the Hungarian prime minister said.

"I do not consider it logical that Russia, which cannot even defeat Ukraine, would all of a sudden come and swallow the Western world whole. The chances of this are extremely slim."

The prime minister said that Hungary is committed to the mission of protecting NATO members but is concerned about funding and supplying weapons to Ukraine, as it is not a member of the alliance.

Orban claimed that NATO's current direction may result in a clash with Russia, adding that Budapest is working to redefine its position in NATO so that it could refrain from any actions outside of the alliance's territory.

"Our lawyers and officers are hard at work to see how Hungary can maintain its NATO membership in a way that it wouldn't have to take part in NATO actions outside of NATO territory," Orban said.

Budapest has repeatedly opposed Ukraine's accession to NATO and the EU, sanctions on Russia, undermined Western aid efforts for Ukraine, and maintained close relations with Moscow throughout the full-scale war.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg proposed in April to create a $100 billion five-year fund to aid Ukraine in order to get the allied countries more involved in providing Kyiv with weapons.

Budapest will not participate in NATO's long-term plan to support Ukraine, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said in early May, calling it a "crazy mission."

French President Emmanuel Macron said that Western countries should not rule out a possible deployment of their troops in Ukraine, but most of other leaders distanced themselves from his statement.

Read also: Zelensky holds focused call with Orban, invites him to peace summit

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The Oregon Department of Human Services is in Salem. (Michael Romanos/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

The Oregon Department of Human Services agreed to a historic settlement in a class action lawsuit filed on behalf of the states foster children that will hold the state agency more accountable to improve its care for some of Oregons most vulnerable young people.

The state agency, which is responsible for more than 4,600 foster children, has agreed to work with an outside expert to improve in areas like placing children in appropriate households, curtailing bad treatment and abuse and ensuring quality medical and mental health care. Years of work is ahead: The agreement says the outside experts role with the agency could last for up to a decade  and potentially be extended.

The settlement is another chapter in years of scrutiny for Oregons beleaguered foster care system, which has come under fire for moving vulnerable children to questionable out-of-state facilities, shuffling them to hotels and hiring outside contractors like Dynamic Life without adequate vetting. Advocacy groups who represented children and the state agency announced the settlement on Friday.

This case has always been about providing children in the foster care system what they need to recover from trauma and thrive  stability, safety and nurturing from the adults in their life, Jake Cornett, executive director and CEO of Disability Rights Oregon said in a statement. After more than five years, were grateful Governor (Tina) Kotek and the Department of Human Services see the promise of working collectively to improve Oregons foster care system.

The agreement ends five years of litigation. Attorneys for advocacy watchdog Disability Rights Oregon and A Better Childhood, a national nonprofit, represented foster children who sued the state in U.S. District Court in Eugene in 2019.

The lawsuit alleged the Oregon Department of Human Services, agency director Fariborz Pakseresht and Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint Gerner failed to keep foster children safe and free from trauma such as frequent moves among foster homes and a lack of appropriate therapy or other services.

We are grateful for the willingness of all involved in this litigation to come together to find ways to achieve our mutual goal of improving outcomes for Oregon children and families, Pakseresht said in a statement. This agreement is a testament to the progress we have made in child welfare over the past several years and allows us to focus on the important work ahead.

The case started based upon the record of 10 current or former children in the foster system. A federal judge granted the case class action status in 2022 on behalf of all Oregon foster children.

Children suffer in state system

The stories of children in the system are central to the case.

The first filing of the lawsuit centered in part upon the record of then-3-year-old Wyatt and his 18-month-old brother Noah. The two brothers experienced half a dozen placements within three weeks and the agency eventually moved them into separate homes. The frequent moves and separation impacted the children: Wyatt had outbursts with kicking, hitting and screaming. Noah had night terrors and needed constant attention.

Another, Norman, was 17 when the case started. By then, Norman had shuffled through at least 50 locations, including an Idaho facility where he was placed in restraints by staff and other youth assaulted him, breaking his nose, the lawsuit said. He also did not get the mental health services he needed  and could not observe his Native American cultural traditions and grow out his hair.

And Naomi, then a 16-year-old, cycled in and out of a homeless youth shelter after the agency couldnt find any other places for her.

To prevent others from suffering the same experiences, attorneys for advocacy groups took the Oregon Department of Human Services to court.

Out of the original 10 children, five have aged out of the system by reaching 18, four have been adopted and one is still in the system, said Emily Cooper, legal director for Disability Rights Oregon.

But they still see the value of sharing their stories. One of them read a copy of the settlement and cried all night, knowing that if the agreements promises were in place during her childhood, she would not have the scars she has, Cooper said.

It made me very emotional because it reminds me that legal systems can be really clunky and take a long time to not only get a win like this, but have that win actually bear fruit, Cooper said in an interview.

Pakseresht declined a request from the Capital Chronicle for an interview.

Rather than seeking monetary settlements for the children, the lawsuit pressed the state to make systemic improvements so Oregon is better equipped to serve youngsters in the midst of traumatic experiences.

For five years, attorneys representing the state fought that effort in court and tried to get the case dismissed, using taxpayer dollars to pay up to $18 million in legal fees, primarily from the Markowitz Herbold law firm in Portland.

The agreement comes several months after the state settled another major case filed by former foster children. In December, the Oregon Department of Human Services agreed to pay $40 million to settle a different lawsuit filed by four former foster children who were physically and sexually abused in a home.

Jake Sunderland, a spokesman for the Oregon Department of Human Services, said five years were needed to ensure that Oregon could continue to implement its program that focuses on supporting families and preventing children and young adults from entering foster care in the first place.

A focus on prevention and family preservation is consistent with national best practice and improves equity, Sunderland said in an email. This is not work that can be done overnight.

Settlement details

Under the agreement, the Oregon Department of Human Services and attorneys for the plaintiffs will pick an outside neutral expert by May 31 to guide the states work in the years to come.

The state will contract with the expert to work on meaningful improvements in areas like reducing the rate of children that face maltreatment in the system, improving quality placement and ensuring timely medical, dental and mental health assessments after children are placed in the states custody. The state and expert will also work together on lowering the rates at which children exit and reenter the foster care system.

The experts first review is due by April 20, 2025. Annual reviews will continue for each year until the expert determines the Oregon Department of Human Services is in compliance  or after 10 years, whichever comes first. The expert could recommend an extension of up to two years beyond that.

The Oregon Department of Human Services also agreed to enter mediation to determine the amount of attorney fees it will owe the plaintiffs for their costs during the case. And the state agreed to pay up to $150,000 annually in attorney fees to Disability Rights Oregon and A Better Childhood for their work during the term of the settlement.

Cooper said the settlement helped the state avoid more legal costs of a trial.

Long-running case

Earlier this month, the case appeared headed for trial on May 13 in the federal courthouse in Eugene, with testimony anticipated from Pakseresht, other agency administrators and outside experts.

On May 10, the court gave both sides another week to reach a settlement agreement before going to trial.

By then, the case had an unusual twist: the Oregon Department of Human Services subpoenaed Sen. Sara Gelser Blouin, D-Corvallis, for nine years of her emails and other correspondence with foster children and advocates. The expansive subpoena even sought Gelser Blouins correspondence with celebrity Paris Hilton, who has testified about childrens issues before Gelser Blouins Senate Human Services Committee.

The subpoena came as attorneys for the plaintiffs planned to have Gelser Blouin, chair of the Senate Human Services Committee, testify in the trial. Disability Rights Oregon criticized the move, saying the state was targeting Gelser Blouin, who has called for reforms at the agency.

The post Oregon DHS and Disability Rights Oregon settle long-running class-action foster care lawsuit appeared first on Oregon Capital Chronicle.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Oregon health officials are urging residents to get the mpox vaccine as people gather to celebrate Pride Month in June.

While the number of mpox infections in Oregon has significantly dropped since an outbreak in June 2022, the virus still circulates at low levels with some increases in case counts, OHA Health Officer and state epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said.

Mpox activity has generally remained low, but by no means has this virus gone away in Oregon or other parts of the country, Sidelinger said. Pride is a great time for people in the LGBTQIA2S+ community to show support for themselves, their partners and their community by getting both doses of the mpox vaccine.

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When the outbreak peaked in August 2022, Oregon saw between 10-15 mpox cases reported each week, according to OHA.

Since then, health officials said weekly case counts range from no case counts to two or three.

In 2022, there were 270 mpox cases, 30 in 2023, and eight in 2024 as of April 30, OHA reported, noting there have been no deaths.

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The health authority said the JYNNEOS mpox vaccine is highly effective, citing the Center for Disease Control & Preventions Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, showing the vaccine was 75% effective for people who received one dose, and 86% effective for people who received two doses.

Until April, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services distributed the vaccine to providers for free.

On April 1, JYNNEOS manufacturer Bavarian Nordic launched the vaccine on the commercial market so providers can bill health insurance to cover the cost, officials said.

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The vaccine is free to Oregon Health Plan members and state law requires the vaccines cost to be covered with commercial insurance, OHA said.

Mpox spreads through close, skin-to-skin contact and most often occurs through intimate or sexual contact or contact with lesions of an individual with mpox, according to OHA.

Health officials said mpox infection rates are highest among Multnomah County residents, people ages 30-39 and members of the Latinx and Black/African American communities.

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Most of the cases were men who reported having sex with men and most identified as gay or bisexual, according to OHA.

Officials said if anyone thinks they have mpox, they should contact their healthcare provider and let them know before going in to be seen.

People without a healthcare provider can call 211 or their local public health authority for help finding a clinic or health care provider.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A crime ring in Oregon is targeting customers at big box stores up and down the coast, according to authorities.

Portland police detectives are investigating a series of pickpocketing incidents  most recently at Costco parking lots in the metro area  and are requesting the publics help to identify more victims and to keep a lookout for the suspects.

A recent surveillance video shows a 93-year-old man pushing his cart out of a Costco in Portland when three men start trailing behind him, eventually snatching his wallet from his back pocket.

The victim in this case told Nexstars KOIN that he hopes police can break up the crime ring.

Its so devastating when you lose everything in your wallet, he said. Then you have to go through the process of replacing your drivers license and other important cards.

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Portland Police Detective Jordan Zaitz is trying to track down the thieves.

It makes me sick, she said. Theyre out there hunting for peoples identity, stolen credit cards, and its people who probably dont even realize that its happening, or not until much later. And so theyre able to get away with it.

Police are searching for three men accused of pickpocketing customers at local big box stores. (KOIN)

In the case of the 93-year-old victim, Zaitz said he checked out of Costco at 5 p.m., made it home at 5:30 p.m., and by the time he called Visa and MasterCard, the thieves already used his cards at a local retail outlet.

They were able to walk away with just about $1,500 worth of gift cards that they can use later, Zaitz said. Theyre pretty organized. I think this is something that theyve been doing for a really long time.

Portland police have confirmed pickpocketing attempts at Costcos in Portland and Tigard, plus in Washington towns such as Kirkland, Puyallup, Tukwila and Lynnwood.

Police know there are more unknowing victims out there.

We had a woman who was loading her car with the purchased items, her purse was in there and they went up and got her wallet. I have that on video, but Im still not sure who the victim is. Shes never made that police report, Zaitz said. One of the things thats important to me is finding out if there were people who had their purses or wallets stolen while at a Costco, at a Walmart, at a Safeway, anywhere really. And if we can possibly link it up to this group.

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Portland police are now asking victims to come forward in a timely manner, so they can try to track down surveillance footage.

The sooner the better because video is only held for so long, and Id like to be able to charge them with as many crimes as theyve committed, said Zaitz, who warned shoppers to stay vigilant.

Have your head on a swivel when youre out in the parking lots, even when youre inside stores, dont leave your purse on the back of your chair. Keep it in your lap or in front of you, Zaitz said. When youre unloading your groceries, put your purse in your car first and then unload your groceries or just have it on you. If youre a man with a wallet in your back pocket, button it and just be aware.

More information on the case, including photos of the suspects, can be found at the Portland Police Bureaus website.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Oregon Supreme Court order requires more people to be held in jail for drug crimes

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A new order issued Wednesday from Oregon Supreme Court Chief Justice Meagan A. Flynn requires more people arrested for serious drug crimes to be held in jail until their court appearance, the Oregon Judicial Department announced.

This order allows more people charged with drug crimes that pose the greatest risk to public health and safety to be held until a judge determines whether they can be released with conditions to ensure public safety and future court appearances, Chief Justice Flynn said. It also will allow local presiding judges to tailor additional requirements to address local public safety priorities and resources.

The order comes after Oregon lawmakers passed House Bill 4002, which recriminalized small drug possession and directed the chief justice to evaluate the pretrial release guidelines.

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Under the order, people who are arrested for crimes involving the delivery or manufacture of controlled substances, or a controlled substance offense involving minors, will be held in custody between their arrest and appearance before a judge.

Officials said the first court appearance usually happens on the first court day after the weekend or no more than 36 hours after arrest.

From there, the judge will decide if the person will be released, typically with conditions to ensure public safety and their next court appearance, or if they will remain in jail subject to posting bail.

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The new order also allows the presiding judge for each circuit court to update their release orders to include person-specific overriding circumstances for all offenses involving the delivery and manufacture of controlled substances in order to address public safety concerns.

Officials said those circumstances may include if the person possessed a substantial quantity of drugs, committed a commercial drug offense, possessed a particular type of controlled substance, used a gun, or has a history of arrests or failing to appear in court.

Chief Justice Flynn began the review of pretrial release guidelines in January 2024.

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In March, Oregon lawmakers passed House Bill 4002, which rolled back voter-approved Measure 110 and re-criminalized small drug possession.

That bill, signed into law by Gov. Tina Kotek, also expanded the conduct subject to crimes involving delivery of a controlled substance, increased penalties for different types of drug possession offenses, and directed the chief justice to evaluate the pretrial release guidelines.

Before issuing the order, Chief Justice Flynn received recommendations from a criminal justice advisory committee and presiding judges across the state.

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The updated guidelines modify those developed under Senate Bill 48, which passed in 2021.

That bill moved Oregon away from automatic bail release before arraignment based on charges, and instead toward risk-based release decisions with conditions to ensure court appearances and community safety.

The old system allowed people who could afford to post bail to be released before arraignment regardless of their risk of appearing in court or committing new crimes, officials said, adding those who could not afford bail would stay in jail regardless of their risk of committing new crimes.

Oregons pretrial release guidelines include three categories: release on recognizance, release with court-imposed conditions, and hold for arraignment.

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A fourth guideline allows circuit courts to move defendants from one category to another based on overriding circumstances in addition to circumstances related to drug crimes.

These circumstances can include:

A score from a risk assessment tool

Prior criminal record

Outstanding warrants

A threat of violence to a victim, law enforcement officer, or anyone connected to the case

Prior failure to appear or other violations of release conditions.

Officials said the drug offenses moved into the hold until arraignment category by Wednesdays order are classified as crime seriousness category 8 under Oregons Felony Sentencing Guidelines and have a presumptive prison sentence or are controlled substance offenses involving minors.

Other offenses that were already in the hold until arraignment category include all Class A felonies and violent felonies, sex crimes, and crimes related to domestic violence or firearms.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Nearly 50 congressional members want the Health and Human Services secretary to further tighten privacy regulations for personal medical records.

More than one in four Oregonians are enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, the state's Medicaid-funded program that cares for low-income people. (Getty Images)

A deputy director of Medicaid policy in North Carolina is coming to Oregon to direct the states Medicaid program.

On July 24, Emma Sandoe will become the director of Oregons Medicaid program, which provides 1.4 million low-income people with medical, dental and mental health care, Oregon Health Authority officials said in a release. The Medicaid program has a two-year budget of $28 billion, or approximately $14 billion a year, to provide care to more than one in four Oregonians.

Emma Sandoe, Oregon Medicaid director (Oregon Health Authority)

Sandoe has worked in the North Carolina Medicaid program since 2019. In that role, she has served as the states liaison to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and overseen work in developing and implementing policies to improve health equity in North Carolinas health care system. Sandoe also has worked as the Medicaid liaison to tribal nations in North Carolina.

Oregon officials said Sandoe worked on North Carolinas Medicaid expansion, which started in December and will provide health care benefits to more than 450,000 people.

Her arrival comes at a critical time for Oregons Medicaid system. The states new five-year Medicaid plan received federal approval  and an additional $1.1 billion in federal funding  to provide housing, food and climate support by distributing air conditioners to improve overall well being.

In a statement, OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi said Sandoes record of expertise and innovation in health equity is a good fit for Oregon.

She brings both vision and pragmatism to this role, as well as strong relationships with our federal partners, which will enable Oregon to continue to set the pace in implementing vanguard Medicaid coverage and benefits that address the major health issues facing our communities, such as homelessness and climate change, Hathi said.

Sandoe was hired after a national search. Her salary will be $171,312 annually.

She said in a statement shes looking forward to starting her work in Oregon.

Im excited to collaborate with Medicaid staff and partners to expand access to care, improve peoples lives and eliminate health inequity, Sandoe said.

Vivian Levy, Oregons interim Medicaid Director, will continue to work as deputy director for Medicaid, Hathi said, praising Levys work in overseeing the system after Medicaid Director Dana Hittle left her role in October.

Before working for North Carolina, Sandoe worked as a press secretary at the CMS and a budget analyst at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Sandoe also has taught health policy classes at Harvard University and Duke University. She received a doctoral degree in health policy and political analysis from Harvard University in 2019 and a masters in public health from George Washington University in 2010. She also earned two bachelors degrees in general biology and political science from the University of Southern California in San Diego, graduating in 2008.

The post Oregon taps North Carolina deputy director to lead Medicaid system appeared first on Oregon Capital Chronicle.
A man sentenced to death for killing an Orlando police officer in 2017 has appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing that a prosecutor misled jurors during sentencing proceedings.

An attorney for Markeith Loyd filed a petition April 30 at the U.S. Supreme Court challenging a Florida Supreme Court decision that upheld Loyds conviction and sentence in the murder of Lt. Debra Clayton. A notice of the appeal was posted Thursday on the Florida Supreme Court website.

Assistant Public Defender Nancy Ryan, an attorney for Loyd, contended that a prosecutor misled jurors about seeking unanimity in their deliberations about Loyds sentence.

Specifically, this (U.S. Supreme) Court disallows argument that misleads jurors as to the role they play under local law in the capital sentencing process, and misleads them in a way that allows them to feel less responsible than they should for the life-or-death decision, the petition said. Here that line was crossed. The prosecutor argued that the jurors should, or must, do their best to achieve unanimity as to the ultimate question before them, a position inconsistent with Floridas substantive law.

The Florida Supreme Court rejected that argument and others in a November decision.

In 2017, Florida lawmakers passed a measure to require unanimous jury recommendations before defendants could be sentenced to death, though they eliminated the unanimity requirement in 2023.

Attorney General Ashley Moodys office, in a filing Thursday, asked the U.S. Supreme Court for an extension of time to file a response to the petition.

Loyd shot Clayton after she spotted him in a Walmart store while he faced an arrest warrant in the murder of Sade Dixon, who had been pregnant with his child.
CANBERRA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The Australian government has announced funding to restore an ancient Chinese processional loong, or dragon, after vandals damaged it.

Loong and other important artifacts were damaged earlier in May by vandals at the Golden Dragon Museum in Bendigo - a gold rush town in the state of Victoria.

Andrew Giles, the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, on Thursday said the federal government would contribute 100,000 Australian dollars (66,023 U.S. dollars) to repair the historic item.

"The unacceptable defacing of Loong the Dragon - a symbol of strength and resilience for many in the Chinese Australian community - shocked many Australians last week," he said in a statement, adding "The Government strongly condemns this attack. There is no place for this behaviour in Australia."

Twenty-nine meters in length and requiring 22 carriers, the loong was paraded in Australia between 1901 and 1970, including at the opening of the nation's parliament in 1901.

Two people, a man aged 43 and a 44-year-old woman, have been charged with causing criminal damage and will face court in August. 
Over 50,000 books destroyed and three publishers affected in Russian strike on Kharkiv printing house

The aftermath of the Russian attack on Kharkiv on 23 May. Photo: Oleh Syniehubov, Head of the Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration

More than 50,000 books were destroyed and at least three publishers  Vivat, Family Leisure Club (KSD) and Ranok (Morning)  have been affected by a Russian attack on the Faktor-Druk printing house in Kharkiv on 23 May.

Source: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; Vivat publishing house; KSD and Ranok in comments for Ekonomichna Pravda

Details: During a massive missile strike on Kharkiv on 23 May, the Russians hit the Faktor-Druk printing house based there.

Vivat, a publisher which is part of the Faktor holding company that owns the affected printing house, said on their Telegram channel that some of their books were being printed at the time of the Russian strike.

"Faktor-Druk is a printing house that is part of the Faktor group. The Vivat publishing house and Vivat bookshops are also part of the group. Its one of the largest full-cycle printing facilities in Europe. It doesnt just print Vivat books, but books from nearly every Ukrainian publisher as well," Vivat said.

Ranok, which publishes textbooks for Ukrainian schools, among other books, also said it had been affected by the attack.

"Ranok had several tens of thousands of books at Faktor-Druk; we dont yet know what happened to them. Thats around 15-20% of our publishing houses total output," Ranok CEO Viktor Kruhlov told Ekonomichna Pravda.

KSD is another publisher affected by the Russian missile strike.

"Faktor-Druk is one of the main printing houses KSD works with. This terrorist attack was a real shock for us. Our entire team expresses their condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, and we are ready to offer them support once we know what is needed," KSDs PR manager Tetiana Riabchenko told Ekonomichna Pravda.

"As of today, its still impossible to estimate the damage and the impact on [our] publishing plans, as rescue work is still underway [at the site of the attack]. As a large publishing house with an office and a warehouse in Kharkiv, we have taken precautions: our print runs are distributed among several printing houses. Eleven titles were being printed at Faktor-Druk. We dont know their fate," Riabchenko said.

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Daniel Feitz, 61, a well-known Panama City podiatrist, received two life sentences for sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl, according a release from the State Attorney's Office for the 14th Judicial Circuit.

PANAMA CITY  A local man convicted of sexually abusing a child received two life sentences this week.

According to a news release from the State Attorney's Office of the 14th Judicial Circuit, 61-year-old Daniel Feitz of Panama City was sentenced Thursday to serve two life sentences: one for the sexual battery of a child younger than 12, and another for lewd or lascivious molestation. He also received a 15-year sentence for lewd or lascivious exhibition.

"The jury's verdict in this case not only brings justice to the victim, but also gives her closure and the opportunity to move forward with her life in an meaningful way," prosecutor Frank Sullivan said in the release.

The release said Feitz, a local podiatrist and now designated sexual predator, was convicted on May 1.

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The jury made its verdict after about an hour and a half of deliberation.

"Sullivan and prosecutor Morgan McAfee called seven witnesses, including the victim, during the two-day trail, proving (Feitz) committed the acts against the child when she was 10 years old," the release reads.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Daniel Feitz receives two life sentences for sexually abusing girl
'Part of me died': Teacher who survived Uvalde school shooting struggles with changes

UVALDE  Arnulfo Reyes hasnt stepped into his classroom in nearly 750 days; no fourth grade students raising their hands and calling him Mr. Reyes at Robb Elementary School.

A part of me died that day, said Reyes, the sole survivor of Classroom 111.

Reyes survived the mass shooting that took the lives of 19 students and two fellow teachers on May 24, 2022.

He was first shot in the left arm and immediately fell to the floor, bleeding heavily. The assailant shortly afterward shot him in the back.

Reyes was dragged out of the classroom after the assailant was killed by a Border Patrol agent. The teacher was airlifted to San Antonio for treatment. Since then, he has had 14 surgeries and still doesnt have full use of his bandaged arm.

Part of the pain he feels is the loss of his students and of being a teacher.

Arnulfo "Arnie" Reyes, a Robb Elementary School teacher who was wounded but survived the school shooting, attends last year's commemoration in Uvalde of the one-year anniversary of the attack. That was my identity, he said of being a teacher. That was the whole thing I was.

That was my identity, he said.

That was the whole thing I was, Reyes said while at Arnies Nursery and Gifts, the plant shop he owns in Uvalde. Some local customers and some from as far away as Austin sustain his business.

I had a hard time with the acceptance that I was not going to go back into the teaching field because thats what I had worked for all these years, was to be a teacher and to be good at it, Reyes said.

He taught for 17 years, spending some time at charter schools, private schools and six years at Robb Elementary. Prior to becoming a fourth grade teacher at Robb, he taught preschool.

I got to see my pre-K students come up to fourth grade, and it was rewarding, because I got to see them at 5 years old and now, theyre 10 years old.

His face lit up while talking about his teaching career, getting to see the childrens smiling faces each day, and to watch them grow.

Everything I do, Im doing for them, Reyes said. I would not let my students die in vain.

Reyes, bottom center, wipes tears from his face during a May 24, 2023, candlelight vigil in Uvalde for the shooting victims. All 11 students in his classroom were slain.

He now actively speaks out against gun violence on social media, speaks at protests and has conducted many interviews with the national media to share the story about his students.

As the sole survivor from one of the two classrooms where the mass shooting took place, Reyes said he believes it is his duty to speak out about the shooting and his new role as an activist.

Sometimes it just feels lonely, he said while his voice trembled.

People seem to stay away from him when hes in public. He assumes its because they dont want to talk about the massacre.

But I live it every day, he said. I cant get away from it.

His eyes glanced up and to the right, which is seen as a facial cue of memory retrieval.

Prior to choosing a career path in teaching, Reyes said he wanted to be a lawyer.

I just knew that I was going to be someone that people can depend on, he said. I was going to help people.

As the sole survivor of Classroom 111, Reyes says he believes it is his duty to speak out about the Robb Elementary shooting.

Reyes now works at his plant shop, which was open a year prior to the shooting, but closed for a year and a half while he focused on healing. He reopened it six months ago.

The store is filled with crosses that he painted himself, along with plants, holiday decor and jewelry with symbols of guardian angels.

Frida Kahlo artwork is seen on almost every shelf. Kahlo, who had health problems nearly all her life, was a Mexican painter best known for her themes of identity, death and social change through her artwork.

Reyes greets his customers in English or Spanish, depending on what is most appropriate for the interaction.

Arnulfo Reyes, shown at the Uvalde plant shop he now operates, has had more than a dozen surgeries since the shooting and still doesnt have full use of his left arm.

His patrons speak comfortably in his shop, asking questions about what color flowers would look best on a cross for Easter. They squeeze their way into the store, even after closing hours, but he welcomes them all with warm greetings.

It keeps me busy and keeps my mind busy as well, Reyes said.

He said that he receives a lot of support from people out of town, but not many people from Uvalde visit to support his business.

His shop is filled with bright colors, and there are toys on the register desk that he will give out for free to students.

There is a deep sadness in Reyess eyes, and while he appears to find joy in running his shop, the loss of his past life is evident. While not having biological children of his own, he lost 11 of his children that day, and the trajectory of his life and dreams as an educator were forever changed.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Teacher who survived Uvalde school shooting works through the pain
Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

A missile attack on a Russian communications hub in the city of Alushta in occupied Crimea has caused "significant damage to equipment," with numerous casualties reported, the pro-Ukrainian partisan group Atesh reported on May 24.

The Crimean Wind telegram channel further reported that a large military antenna was struck in the community of Semydviria, just 3 kilometers east of Alushta. The antenna was previously used by Ukraine's military prior to Russia's occupation of Crimea in 2014.

Atesh also reported that the command center of the communications hub may have been destroyed in the attack, although no information is currently available on the status of the military facility.

Crimean Wind claimed that the communications center was hit by at least six U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles. The projectiles allegedly struck the antenna as well as several buildings of the facility, where "high-ranking military personnel... were located at the moment."

"Explosions were heard in almost all regions of Crimea. Russian air defenses were active in many, but they were not very effective," the channel claimed.

Ukraine's Armed Forces have yet to take responsibility for the attack, nor have they provided comment.

Earlier on May 23, Sergey Aksyonov, the proxy head of Russian occupation authorities in Crimea, alleged that as a result of the missile attack on the Simferopol region, two bystanders were killed.

Aksyonov further claimed the attack had caused damage to "empty" commercial property, which was also recorded in the Alushta area.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims, and no information is presently available on the extent of the casualties.

At the start of the attack, sounds of explosions were reported in Sevastopol, Yevpatoriia, and Alushta in occupied Crimea during the late hours of May 23, according to Suspilne Crimea.

At around 10:18 p.m. local time, Suspilne reported hearing explosions in Yevpatoriia. By 10:30 p.m., passenger transport had been suspended in Sevastopol. A video later surfaced online, presumably depicting an explosion in the Alushta district on the southern coast of Crimea. At least five explosions were reported in Alushta.

Within the hour, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Krym Realii announced that residents heard three explosions near the territory of the Belbek airfield in Sevastopol, as well as the work of air defense from Novofedorivka. A total of eight explosions were allegedly heard.

The Crimean Wind telegram channel reported around 0:26 a.m. that a fire had broken out at a military site in the community of Semydviria, about 4 kilometers east of Alushta.

Additional sounds of explosions were reported by residents of Sevastopol around 3 a.m., according to Crimean Wind.

Ukrainian forces have launched several attacks against Russia's Belbek military airfield in occupied Crimea in recent weeks.

The Crimean Wind Telegram channel claimed the airfield was attacked late on May 15 and that a fuel depot caught fire, while Russia's Defense Ministry claimed five U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles were intercepted overnight by "air defense systems on duty."

Attacks against the Belbek airfield were also reported the preceding night, which allegedly resulted in fires near the military facility.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Syrskyi says Russia is completely bogged down in Vovchansk street fighting

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Passenger assaulted flight attendant who helped nurse try to give him Narcan, feds say

A scream heard from the bathroom of an Alaska Airlines flight came from a man who federal prosecutors said became violent once a nurse tried to help  leading to a bloody and chaotic scene.

Now, the man, a 38-year-old Minnesota resident, has been sentenced to five years of probation for assaulting a flight attendant and interfering with a flight crews normal duties, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Alaska announced May 23.

A federal defender appointed to represent him, Samuel Eilers, declined a request for comment from McClatchy News on May 24.

Following the mans screams from the bathroom on the flight from Minneapolis to Anchorage on June 24, he stepped out and a flight attendant smelled a strange, burnt, metallic scent, according to court documents.

Then, he shakily headed toward his seat, but walked past it, and became unresponsive, court documents say. After a nurse on the plane checked on him and believed he was overdosing, a flight attendant grabbed the opioid reversal medication Narcan, according to prosecutors.

The man became alert as the nurse tried to give him the medicine with the help of the flight crew and a male passenger, prosecutors said.

He began to violently struggle when the nurse placed the Narcan in his nose and fought against those trying to help, resulting in flight attendants restraining his arms and a passenger restraining his legs, according to a sentencing memorandum.

Then, the man grabbed or pushed the flight attendant who retrieved the Narcan by her throat and her necklace broke, prosecutors said.

By the time two more passengers joined to help, his nose and mouth were bleeding, according to the sentencing memo.

Several of the flight attendants and passengers came into contact with Burchs blood, including one passenger who got some in his mouth, prosecutors said.

The nurse gave him two doses of Narcan, but he kept trying to break away, according to the sentencing memo.

As a result, the flight attendant, who hes accused of assaulting, secured his ankles and wrists in flex-cuffs, prosecutors said.

We are extremely thankful to our crew members on board Alaska Airlines Flight 183 on June 24, 2023, who kept other passengers safe and calm during a troubling situation, an Alaska Airlines spokesperson told McClatchy News on May 24.

Passenger arrested twice

When the flight arrived in Anchorage, the man was arrested and spent six days detained in federal custody, according to prosecutors.

Upon his return to Minnesota, he was arrested and held in state custody for 72 days for violating his state parole by leaving the state without permission, the U.S. Attorneys office said in the release.

After entering a guilty plea in December, he violated the conditions of his pretrial release in March, resulting in another arrest, prosecutors said.

He was detained since then and served 66 days in federal custody, according to prosecutors.

Not proud

The man had a history of crippling drug addiction, which intensified after his arrest in the case, Eilers wrote in a sentencing memorandum on his clients behalf.

He was flying to Alaska with his stepson for a fishing trip that they both had planned for over a year, according to Eilers.

Two hours after the flight took off, he smoked a syntheitic opiate in the planes bathroom, the sentencing memo says.

Ahead of sentencing, he completed a 45-day out-patient treatment program, Eilers wrote in the sentencing memo.

In a March 22 letter to a federal judge, the man wrote:

I fully acknowledge my role in the events that led to these charges. I am not proud of what Ive done, my drug use, and the impact it has had on other people.

When an assault happens on a plane, the FBI is in charge of investigating.

Criminal conduct aboard an aircraft, such as interference with a flight crew, jeopardizes the safety of all passengers and is a federal crime, Rebecca Day, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Anchorage field office, said in a statement.

Passenger groped teen trying to sleep on flight as she traveled with family, feds say

Cruise worker grabs scissors and stabs 75-year-old passenger and 2 guards, feds say

Passenger kept groping woman on flight, quickly left once plane landed, feds say

Off-duty cops restrain passenger groping woman, threatening others on flight, feds say
Just look at the happy couple  Jane Wyman and Ronald Reagan arriving at a movie premiere in 1942. She would divorce him, citing "extreme mental cruelty," a few years later. (Los Angeles Times archive / UCLA Library)

Ugly? You have no idea.

Every nasty little private thing a marriage could churn up, every infidelity, every insult and threat, every drunken episode and squandered paycheck, every crying child  there they all were, spilled out from a witness stand in a courtroom.

Then and only then, after wife or husband had exhausted the litany of the others transgressions, could a judge declare them no longer a couple.

And that was the nature of divorce before no-fault divorce laws.

Not every divorce was that emotionally gruesome  not by a long shot  but almost everywhere in the country, a divorce required a wronged spouse, a sinning spouse, and some kind of proof to a legally satisfactory standard. That proof often took sleazy turns, which well get into later.

California, ever the pioneer, was the first state to legalize no-fault divorce in 1969. Other states followed suit  New York, the last, in 2010, about two whole generations later.

Thereafter, at-fault divorces could still happen, and they still can. But with no-fault divorces, a couple could split amiably, without accusing or proving anything like bigamy or fraud or abandonment. Under California no-fault law, breakups werent even called divorce anymore, but dissolution of marriage. One becomes two; go in peace.

And now, some conservatives  including House Speaker Mike Johnson  want to end no-fault divorce; they believe it has contributed to making ours what Johnson once called a completely amoral society.

Ronald Reagan was governor of California when, a few days after Labor Day 1969, he signed the nations first no-fault law. His statement: I believe it is a step towards removing the acrimony and bitterness between a couple that is harmful not only to their children but also to society as a whole. Divorce is a tragic thing, but the new law will do much to remove the sideshow elements in many divorce cases.

Many years before, Reagan had starred in the sideshow. His first wife, actress Jane Wyman , went to court to end their eight-year marriage. She claimed one of the standard grounds for at-fault divorce: an elastic legal term, extreme mental cruelty.

Politics came between them, she told the judge  his, as president of the Screen Actors Guild. Hed drag her along to meetings and to conversations with friends about guild politics, but her ideas were never considered important. ... Finally, there was nothing in common between us, nothing to sustain our marriage. (Wyman had already served a term on the SAG board of directors.)

The papers took pains to note that Wyman came to court hatless, her hair in a pageboy bob. She wore a tangerine gabardine shirt-maker dress.

Court reporters and a reading public were avid for all the dirt on movie star divorces.

In March 1955, 14 hours after he had picked up the best picture Oscar for On the Waterfront, producer Sam Spiegel found himself divorced from his actress wife (blue-tailored dress, ash-blond hair in shoulder-length curls), whod accused him of leaving her penniless in Beverly Hills when hed gone off to make The African Queen.

This is not the place for a history or consequences of divorce, before or after no-fault. Divorces have historically been hard to get; through the 1600s, the Massachusetts and Connecticut colonies each approved about one divorce per year. In countries where marriage was as much religious as contractual, getting a divorce was an eye-of-the-needle undertaking. And divorce could be monstrously expensive, which put it out of reach of almost everyone.

Even as divorce got easier, the word easy was relative.

When Wyman won an Oscar for playing the title character in the movie Johnny Belinda, Reagan remarked that I think Ill name Johnny Belinda as co-respondent.

Co-respondent is a word almost every grown American once knew. It meant the third party in an adultery accusation in divorce court. (Think of Diana, the Princess of Wales, saying, There were three of us in this marriage.) When you wanted an at-fault divorce, you had to show specific grounds, reasons, and adultery was a common one  sometimes real, and sometimes faked.

The routine was that a husband would be caught in a compromising position with some woman, either his actual girlfriend or a woman whod been paid to go along with the put-up job.

Often, they bedded long enough in a hotel for a room-service waiter or a private detective with a camera to catch them and voila, exhibit A. Usually it was the husband; either he was actually cheating, or he chivalrously volunteered to the charade because mens reputations were not besmirched by adultery the way womens were.

The newspapers divorce stories of the 1950s were flat-out lurid. The Times reported  with photos of the unhappy couple and the co-respondent  on a woman whose aggrieved husband wanted custody of their little daughters, because his wife took the girls to a San Bernardino motel room where she was staying with another man. In a different case, an Air Force sergeant said his wife was pregnant by another man after they coupled in a parked car , and she in turn complained that he waved guns and knives at her for purposes of obtaining her concessions and favors.

Just ... ugh.

Read more: Patt Morrison: Palos Verdes Peninsula landslides can tell us a lot about L.A. history

Michael J. Higdon is a professor and associate dean at the University of Tennessees law school, and he can go as super-law-nerdy as you like on the topic of divorce laws. He remembers running across a 1934 New York Mirror newspaper headline from at-fault days, I Was the Unknown Blonde in 100 New York Divorces!

And he shows his students a 1935 Bette Davis tear-jerker called Dangerous, about an on-the-skids actress who wants to marry the kind man who restored her to health and talent. She asks her husband for a divorce, but he refuses. So she tries to kill him in a car crash. It only cripples him and, spoiler, she eventually gives up on her kind lover and devotes her life to caring for the husband she couldnt kill.

Reno, Nev., was known as the divorce capital of the world. A woman could establish residency there in six weeks, divorce her wayward husband and return home free. Unclear who is seeking the divorce on this vintage postcard from Patt Morrison's collection. Maybe both of them.

The more I thought about this, the more movies I remembered about at-fault divorce  some comic, like Cary Grant s The Awful Truth, and some dramatic, like Kramer vs. Kramer. In the legendary 1939 film The Women, New York wives trundle off to Reno, where a six-week residency law lets them divorce their wayward husbands and return home free. (It amused me to read that among the fiercest objectors to Californias no-fault divorce law was Nevada, worried that it would lose its quickie-divorce trade. As matters turned out, its made a mint on quickie marriages.)

Higdon can dish the actual facts about what (to the Mike Johnson adherents) looked like the good old days of at-fault divorce, but in fact were not (just ask Bette Davis).

If you dont think deeply about what all this means, it could sound good  hey, its just too easy to end marriage, and we all agree marriage is a society building block, and we want to make sure people going into it really think about it and commit to it.

It sounds good, right? he asks. The point is, we had that for a long time.

And for a long time, he says, we kind of needed it because women had so few rights.

This 1912-postmarked postcard from Patt Morrison's collection depicts a grim scene.

What changed, at about the same time no-fault began, was that a couple of decades of legal and cultural shifts  which many conservatives deplore  began making life different, larger and better for married and unmarried women.

In 1965, the Supreme Court ruled that married couples could legally use contraceptives, in spite of states blue-nose Comstock laws banning that. In 1972 the right to contraception was extended to unmarried women.

Title IX gave women equal protection from college, workplace and legal discrimination (an unfinished project). And in 1981, the court dumped a law  from Louisiana, Johnsons home state  that gave a husband head and master unilateral control over the couples joint property.

A weakness that emerged in no-fault is that fault-based divorces with evidence of abuse or adultery theoretically gave some power to the woman, who was usually the injured party, says Higdon. Often alimony was awarded on the basis of that, because typically the economically weaker party is going to be the most harmed by divorce.

But that was a time when a married womans property was often legally her husbands property. Women were excluded wholesale from many trades, professions and university programs. Women who could get jobs could not  and still dont  get equal pay to men doing the same jobs. And not until 1974 could women get credit cards on their own, in their own name.

So sometimes a womans only leverage in at-fault divorce was her passive power to get compensated for being wronged, and being awarded arguably enough money to support herself and any children, which didnt always actually turn out that way.

Read more: Patt Morrison: Confederate sentiment in Southern California ran deeper than you might know

At-fault divorce offered some protection for women at a time when almost every other law did not. (Of course penalties have fallen harder on women caught in adultery. Its they, and rarely their male partners, who get put to death, historically and even today . And the bar for sexual misbehavior was often lower for women. In Kentucky, Higdon told me, a man could divorce his wife for lascivious behavior.)

The reason we went to no-fault actually supports traditional conservative values, is what Higdon thinks. Around the late 1960s, early 1970s, people werent getting married as much, because they didnt have to, because things were changing in society.

The dwindling stigmas on illegitimacy and on unmarried sexual partners, legal contraception, more laws supporting womens access to the workplace  things that some conservatives want to reverse  made at-fault divorce look more and more off-putting.

No-fault was a way to get people to marry. If youre in a marriage, theres lots of protection. Say at the end of 30 years, its better if [couples] were married than not, because with marriage comes property protection. Imagine 30 years with someone, and they drop dead  and youre not protected. Marriage protects in ways that cohabitation does not.

And no-fault divorce still offered legal protections to divorcing couples, but without the trauma of guilty and innocent parties. A judge has only to be satisfied that the couples differences were irreconcilable.

Read more: Patt Morrison: Was L.A.'s Ellen Beach Yaw the proto-Taylor Swift?

Theres no end to the debate and studies about who suffers more in a divorce, economically, personally and socially. Mens rights groups have sprung into existence in the wake of changes in family law. And divorced women may find themselves fighting to get their court-ordered child support, and winding up as principal breadwinner and primary parent.

Yet Time magazine has reported that 70% of divorces are initiated by women, and a 2004 Stanford business school study concluded that while divorce traditionally leaves women worse off than men financially, it delivers women an unexpected and life-preserving benefit: In no-fault states, the study found that womens suicide rates dropped by a startling 20%, and wife-beating fell by as much as 12.8%.

Higdon has looked ahead to the fallout we could be in for if we end no-fault divorce, and he worries that making divorce harder once more will make more people reluctant to get married.

And if people think common-law marriage is a good alternative, think again. First, he says, theres all kinds of misinformation and urban legend, like, My mom told me that after prom if me and my boyfriend check into a hotel, then were legally married. Not.

Only eight states recognize common-law marriage, and California is not one of them. And no state, says Higdon, allows common-law divorce. [Society] wants you to go through the court, to make sure no one is getting screwed in the dissolution process.

Several law websites point out that in many states, an unmarried couples children dont automatically get the same benefits as the children of married couples, like inheritance or child support, and they need paternity agreements or even paternity tests.

There's nothing but an addressee (a mister, if you're wondering) on the back of this vintage postcard from Patt Morrison's collection. The card bears a 1908 postmark.

Theres still a grotesque reality television show called Divorce Court. It thrives on the rowdy spectacle of real divorcing couples fighting over the same red-meat sins of at-fault divorce  adultery, extravagance, neglect, anger, all with vulgar language and shouting that no real courtroom would tolerate.

Its the natural grandchild of TVs original Divorce Court. That show premiered in 1957, here on local station KTTV, then owned by the L.A. Times  K-Times-T-V  and those three-hanky episodes were actors reenactments of actual divorce cases.

And if you ever go looking for some real deterrents to marriage, just try binge-watching those.

Get the latest from Patt Morrison

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The city of Pawtucket and Board of Canvassers must provide election-related information in English and Spanish  including information at polling places and online  under a consent agreement reached with federal officials. (Getty image)

The city of Pawtucket will provide Spanish-speaking voters with election assistance and materials in their native language in time for the Sept. 10 primary under an agreement to settle a voting rights lawsuit, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Thursday.

A consent agreement filed in the U.S. District Court of Rhode Island on Thursday responds to allegations that Pawtucket election officials failed to give assistance in Spanish to voters with limited English proficiency. City officials dispute the allegations.

Under the federal Voting Rights Act, bilingual ballots are required in any voting jurisdiction where residents with limited English proficiency account for more than 5% of the voting population. As of January 2024, the DOJ said Pawtucket had 45,254 total active registered voters, of whom 9,961  22%  had Spanish surnames.

Federal officials had also alleged that Pawtucket election officials refused to allow voters who were qualified to cast a provisional ballot to do so, adding that workers were not trained over these requirements.

The right to vote is the right on which all others depend, U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island Zachary Cunha said in a statement. This office will remain vigilant in enforcing our civil rights laws to ensure that illegal barriers to access do not keep Americans from casting their ballots.

The DOJ alerted the city about its investigation in February, said Rhode Island Board of Elections spokesperson Chris Hunter. Federal officials previously monitored Pawtuckets elections during the 2023 special primary and general elections to make sure the state follows the Voting Rights Act.

Pawtucket Registrar Ken McGill did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien said in a statement Thursday he was surprised to receive the DOJs notice against the citys Board of Canvassers.

When I first ran for Mayor in 2010, I was proud to win the support of many of Pawtuckets Latino community leaders, Grebien said. I pledged that my administration would embrace and support our citys Latino population. And thats exactly what I have done and will continue to do.

Grebien said while he disagreed with the DOJs allegations, the city opted to enter the consent order to avoid protracted and expensive litigation.

Not only was this the right thing to do, but it also ensures that we will continue to protect the best interests of all residents, he said.

Under the agreement, the city and Board of Canvassers must provide election-related information in English and Spanish  including information at polling places and online. The city must also ensure that in-person language assistance is available at all early voting sites and at each election precinct on Election Day.

The post Pawtucket agrees to provide more help to Spanish speaking voters to settle federal dispute appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
Pennsylvania man comes home after being detained in Turks and Caicos over ammunition law

A Somerset County man who spent 101 days detained in Turks and Caicos is home.

Bryan Hagerich arrived at Pittsburgh International Airport just after 9:30 Friday evening and ran into the arms of his two small children.

Hagerich faced up to 12 years in prison after he was found with hunting ammunition on his way out of the country. Early Friday, a judge ruled the ammunition was brought in unintentionally and gave him a suspended sentence.

God has a plan, Hagerich said. Just in a matter of 12 hours, my life has been a complete 180. Looking at 12 years to now. My biggest concern is coaching my kids baseball games tomorrow. That is such a relief.

His release comes after a major effort here at home. Congressman Guy Reschenthaler and Senator John Fetterman were part of a delegation that traveled to the Caribbean earlier this week to lobby for the release of Hagerich and other detained Americans.

This is just wonderful. The kids in their pajamas. For the first time they can all wake up together with pancakes and stuff. Its just pretty great, Fetterman said.

RELATED COVERAGE: American pleads guilty to taking ammunition into Turks and Caicos

On Monday when we left the island, we werent sure that Bryan was going to be released, Reschenthaler said.

Hagerich looked relieved as he hugged friends and family.

Just as a father, as a husband, to be reunited after 101 days. I feel like the weight of the world has been lifted off my shoulders, Hagerich said.

He also shared a message to the families of the remaining American detainees: Keep praying.

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WASHINGTON, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng recently met with the CEO of the world's leading education association, encouraging the organization to promote China-U.S. educational exchanges.

In a meeting with Fanta Aw, CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, on Tuesday, Xie briefed Aw on China's policy stance on China-U.S. educational exchanges and cooperation, according to a news release from the Chinese embassy.

Highlighting President Xi Jinping's initiative of inviting 50,000 American youths to China on exchange and study programs within the next five years, Xie encouraged NAFSA to continue to be an advocate for China-U.S. educational exchanges and cooperation.

Xie also encouraged NAFSA to actively help explore the right way for China and the United States to get along in the new era, and make new contributions to enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the younger generations and promoting the stable, healthy, and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations.

A nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange, NAFSA serves the needs of more than 10,000 members and international educators worldwide at more than 4,300 institutions in over 170 countries, according to its website. 
(WHTM)  A Pennsylvania man has been released from custody in Turks and Caicos after possessing ammunition in his luggage.

Bryan Hagerich of Somerset County, who had been detained on the island for three months, was fined $6,700 and received a 52 week suspended sentence after pleading guilty to possessing 20 rounds of rifle ammunition. Hagerich had been free on bail before receiving his sentence.

The news was announced by U.S. Senator John Fetterman, who recently visited Turks and Caicos with a congressional delegation to advocate for the release of five Americans arrested for possessing ammunition.

This is great news. Bryan is coming home to his family. It was an honor to meet Bryan and the other detained Americans in TCI this week, said Fetterman. When we met with TCI officials a few days ago, they made clear that they wanted this situation resolved. They recognized that Bryan and the other detained Americans are not gunrunners  they are just people who made a mistake. Im grateful that the judge recognized that the right thing to do was to send Bryan home. Im also grateful to the U.S. State Department which has been a critical partner in bringing Bryan home. Im hopeful that TCI expedites the rest of these cases and that the other detained Americans will soon be released and reunited with their families as well.

Governor Josh Shapiro, who also called for the release of all five Americans, released a statement welcoming Hagerich home.

So glad Bryan is coming back home to his wife Ashley and their kids in Somerset County, said Shapiro on X.

The Governor also reminded everyone to check other countries laws before traveling abroad.

The British territory significantly tightened its gun laws in 2022 following a jump in gun violence and weapons trafficking. The strict penalties were meant to protect the community by deterring gun crimes, the government has said.

The British territory significantly tightened its gun laws in 2022 following a jump in gun violence and weapons trafficking. The strict penalties were meant to protect the community by deterring gun crimes, the government has said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
Government is known for moving slowly but Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves hopes to cut a year and a half off of the development of a plan to rebuild Hollice T. Williams Park by combining it with the city's Community Redevelopment Agency once-a-decade update of its redevelopment plan.

The city has three years to start putting the $25 million it was awarded for the Hollice T. Williams Park greenway and stormwater park into use. Under this approach, Reeves told the News Journal that the money will be going to an "equitable framework plan" that will be designed with policies and physical designs aimed at revitalizing the area without losing its character.

The Hollice T. Williams Park project helps address flooding in downtown Pensacola but also looks to reconnect and restore vibrancy to the historically Black and working-class neighborhoods that were split apart by the construction of I-110 in the 1970s. The area has been dubbed the "lost neighborhood" that was gutted with the construction of the I-110 overpass.

A design of the new Hollice T. Williams Park project funded by RESTORE Act funds was completed as Reeves entered office. Reeves selected the project as the subject of his fellowship at the Mayors' Institute on City Design at the Harvard Graduate School of Design last year.

Hollice T. Williams Park: Dream of restoring Pensacola's 'Lost Neighborhood' possible with $25.1 million grant

Reeves said the No. 1 piece of feedback he received on the project from other mayors and city design experts was that other cities had done similar things and ended up with a park that still divided the neighborhoods they were meant to connect.

"They built this nice, fancy park, but they didn't do anything in the neighborhood. So, it lost its identity. It lost its way," Reeves said. "So the pitch of doing Hollice T. Williams is to beautify and reconnect a lost neighborhood. Well, you can't do that by merely putting a park in."

Pensacola is looking for ways that its redevelopment of Hollice T. Williams Park into a greenway and stormwater park can also aid in reconnect the neighborhood that was divided with the construction of Interstate 110.

Facing a ticking clock

Reeves said the idea of redesigning Hollice T. Williams Park to restore the neighborhood has been in the works for 20 years, and he felt it couldn't move forward without a framework plan in place so it wouldn't become another nice park that made no difference to the vulnerable community around it.

"(In other cities, they said) 'we've turned that old, blighted thing into this beautiful park,'" Reeves said. "Well, then, the neighborhood changed, and not just housing and gentrification, which is the first thing that comes to mind. Right? And that's part of it. But also, you may have this nice park, but the struggle in that neighborhood might be jobs. It might be opportunity for jobs. It might be small businesses in more vulnerable neighborhoods are significantly less likely to succeed. It might be all of those things. The park is great, but did it bring the neighborhood up with it?"

Last year, Pensacola won a $25 million grant from the Rebuild Florida Infrastructure Repair Program to spend on stormwater aspects of Hollice T. Williams. Reeves said with the grant, the park would need another redesign because there was an actual budget to work with, and the equitable framework plan had to come before the redesign.

"If we were starting from scratch right now and just said, 'OK, let's develop a framework plan project from ground zero.' Well, that's 12 to 18 months," Reeves said.

That wasn't going to work with the three-year ticking clock on the $25 million grant.

Reeves and city staff held calls to find out the details of what goes into writing a framework plan.

"We asked the question to these experts, and we we had follow-up technical assistance calls with them. And we said, OK, we've never done it. Nowhere in this city or county has that ever been done, for sure. So tell us about this process,' Reeves said. "As we dig a little deeper in the process, and it honestly works almost exactly like a CRA update."

That's when the decision was made to combine the two efforts together.

Pensacola future: Pensacola celebrated a public building boom 40 years ago. Were paying the price today.

Pensacola CRA plan to be updated

A CRA plan update for 2024 was already in the works as Reeves became mayor in 2022.

For any funds to be spent in a CRA, it has to meet a goal or objective listed in the official CRA plan, and the city's CRA plans have become outdated.

The city has three CRA districts. The largest, the Urban Core CRA, last had a plan in 2010, while the Westside CRA plan dates to 2007 and the Eastside CRA plan dates to 2004.

The City Council approved hiring Urban Design Associates out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania under a $659,000 contract to write new plans for all three CRAs and Hollice T. Williams Park using an equitable framework plan model in February.

The group has set up a plan website at www.engagetheteam.com/planupdateCRA and dubbed the effort: "Block-by-Block: Restoring Neighborhoods."

The group is beginning a lightning round of public workshops next week.

Westside Workshop on Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sanders Beach-Corrine Jones Resource Center

Local business owner meeting (RSVP recommended) on Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at City Hall

Urban Core Workshop (lunch session, RSVP recommended) on Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Saenger Theater

Urban Core Workshop on Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Spring Street Library

Eastside Workshop on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Spring Street Library

Equitable Development Plan (Hollice T. Williams Park) public meeting (RSVP Recommended, continental refreshments provided) on Friday 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at City Hall

Virtual Workshop on the CRA plan updates and equitable development framework plan on June 11 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A link will be provided on the CRA plan website.

All four plans will look at both design elements and policy changes that can be made by the city to improve neighborhoods in the CRAs and within 0.5 miles of Hollice T. Williams Park.

CRA Manager Victoria D'Angelo said it was an "aggressive timeline" for some many public workshops in a short period of time.

"The reason that it is an aggressive timeline is because of the grant funding that we received for the park, and because it's dovetailing together, we wish it wasn't so aggressive, but we're trying to work around what we have with that," D'Angelo said.

What comes next?

Along with the public workshops, Urban Design Associates will conduct studies on the land uses in the four areas, analyze the socio-economic and demographic trends, analysis the real estate market, classify and map unique areas, transportation and public open spaces and study impact and source of gentrification and displacement in all four areas.

Most of the grant must be spent of stormwater infrastructure in the park, so it will be a multiple phase project. Reeves said the city will continue to look for other sources of funding to build out the rest of the park.

Reeves is also working to form a citizen volunteer group to advise the city about the park and the way the community interacts with it called the "Friends of Hollice T. Williams Park."

The request for qualifications for a design also mentions that the city is interested in purchasing up to 25 properties around the Longhollow stormwater pond to expand the stormwater capacity of the project.

As those plans move forward, the city is in the process of selecting the firm that will do the actual redesign of Hollice T. Williams Park. A selection committee met on May 16 and their recommendation will soon go to City Council to select a firm. Reeves said Wednesday he didn't know if he could legally comment on the selection until it is ready to go to City Council.

Reeves said whichever firm is selected, they will incorporate the equitable framework plan that comes out of Urban Design Associate's work.

But it's not just the design firm who will have to make changes, as Reeves said that plan could very well include policy changes or recommendations that are critical of current city practices and policies.

"They can recommend all sorts of things, and again, there's precedent in this all over the country in much bigger cities," Reeves said. "I'm proud of this step because it's never been done (in Pensacola). I'm proud of it because of its intentionality to bring up the neighborhood, and not just bring up the park."

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola moving 'aggressively' to write plan to restore neighborhoods
Trucks loaded with humanitarian aid from the United Arab Emirates and the United States Agency for International Development cross the Trident Pier before entering the beach in Gaza earlier this month. A U.S. soldier working at the Gaza pier platform was critically hurt on Thursday and evacuated to Israel, along with two others who were injured in incidents that a military official said were not combat-related. The pier, anchored to the beach and Gaza, has been in operation for about a week in delivering humanitarian food and supplies into the war-torn area via sea. File Photo via U.S. Army/UPI

May 24 (UPI) -- A U.S. soldier working at the Gaza pier platform was critically hurt on Thursday and evacuated to Israel, along with two others who were injured in incidents that a military official said were not combat-related.

The pier, anchored to the beach and Gaza, has been in operation for about a week in delivering humanitarian food and supplies into the war-torn area via sea. Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, declined to comment on the most serious injury.

"One was simply a sprained ankle ... and one is a hurt back," Cooper said of the minor injuries in a news conference on Thursday. "I won't get into the details of the other one."

U.S. officials rejected reports about trucks getting looted once leaving the military's distribution area. Daniel Dieckhaus, USAID's Levant response management team director, admitted that one truck out of 54 delivering goods had "an incident."

"[The incident] represents a minority of the overall shipments," Dieckhaus said, according to USNI News.

Cooper said the pier and its staging area is not completely out of harm's way. He said recently a Hamas drone attacked Israeli Defense Forces members several miles away, forcing officials to pause their humanitarian work temporarily.

Dieckhaus said in the news conference that USAID is going through a layered, complicated process to get food and humanitarian aid from its staging area to those who need it the most.

"It's multifaceted, requires many different moving pieces to align in order for it to work, as well as very strict timing for humanitarian organizations to receive the assistance and move it safely and efficiently to storage and onward distribution," Dieckhaus said.

"We continually adjust and there will continue to be adjustments needed as we learn and adapt the processes. And these processes are improving every day."
For the fourth time since a $95 billion foreign aid bill passed this April, the Pentagon is sending a package of weapons to Ukraine.

In a statement, the Pentagon said the aid, valued at $275 million, will provide Ukraine additional capabilities to meet its most urgent battlefield needs, such as: additional precision strike rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS); artillery rounds; air-launched munitions; and anti-tank weapons.

The tranche will arrive in a moment of precarity for Kyiv. This month, Russia began a new offensive around Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, which sits near the eastern border.

CQ Brown, Americas top military officer, said in a press conference this week that Moscows goal was to establish a shallow buffer zone on that border and force Kyiv to decide which areas along the more than 600-mile front to defend.

This package, like two of the other ones since April, will draw down American stockpiles and send them directly to Ukraine. The method is faster than the massive $6 billion batch of long-term aid announced last month, which depending on the weapon could take years to arrive.

In another interview hosted by the Atlantic Council this week, Brown said the U.S. was providing Ukraine with a constant flow of capability and would focus on what Ukraine tells us they need.

Most recently, that hasnt been a piece of hardware but a way to use the kit already provided. Ukraine has been campaigning to use American-donated weapons  such as the longer-range ATACMS missile  to strike into Russian territory.

The U.S. is reportedly considering whether to change its policy, which does not permit its weapons to be fired across the border. In the press conference, Brown said he was confident that Ukraine hadnt used ATACMS to fire inside Russia.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, speaking beside him, predicted that American policy will stay the same.

Their focus ought to be on the close fight, Austin said of Ukraine.
Tammy Tesson Puhlmann, 63, who now lives in Villa Ridge, Missouri, shows photos of her son Drew as she sat in the Russell Senate Office Building on May 22, 2024. Puhlmanns son died of cancer at age 30, and she was among 10 eastern Missouri residents speaking to lawmakers on Capitol Hill about expanding the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom)

Tammy Tesson Puhlmann, 63, who now lives in Villa Ridge, Missouri, shows photos of her son Drew as she sat in the Russell Senate Office Building on May 22, 2024. Puhlmanns son died of cancer at age 30, and she was among 10 eastern Missouri residents speaking to lawmakers on Capitol Hill about expanding the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  A fund to compensate Americans sickened by exposure to atomic bomb tests, uranium mining and radioactive waste expires in just under 20 days, and activists and lawmakers are scrambling to keep the fund active and open to additional victims.

A bill to reauthorize and expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, often shortened to RECA, sailed through the U.S. Senate in early March on a bipartisan 69-30 vote, but the House has yet to take it up for a vote.

Critics cite high costs, but bipartisan lawmakers and activists rallying in favor of the bill say the victims have already paid the price through medical bills and lost loved ones, and that its ultimately the governments wrong to make right.

The U.S. Senate-passed legislation, championed by Republican Sen. Josh Hawley, aims to extend the program by six years and expand eligibility to several new locations, including his state of Missouri where, over decades, residents witnessed numerous rare similar cancers among neighbors in and around St. Louis.

Chemical plants in downtown St. Louis and Weldon Spring, Missouri, processed uranium during the nations WWII effort to build the first atomic bomb. Radioactive waste from the plants were stored and dumped around the area.

States Newsrooms Missouri Independent, in collaboration with the Associated Press and MuckRock, obtained and combed through thousands of government records that revealed the government downplayed and ignored the dangers of the radioactive waste.

SD Rep. Johnson signs letter urging vote

South Dakota Republican Dusty Johnson was one of eight signers of a letter to House leadership Friday urging a vote on the Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act.

Congress must not forget those innocent people who were irradiated and permanently impacted  simply because of where they lived or how they tried to earn a living for their families, the letter says.

People who worked in South Dakotas uranium mining, milling and transport industry decades ago in Edgemont are among those eligible for Radiation Exposure Compensation Act funding.

As of 2023, people living in South Dakota had submitted 114 claims to the fund since its inception, resulting in 37 denials, 76 awards and one claim that was pending. Total payouts to South Dakotans stood at $6.56 million.

When the reauthorization act passed the Senate in early March in a bipartisan 69-30 vote, South Dakotas Republican senators split their votes, with Sen. Mike Rounds voting for it and Sen. John Thune against it. Neither of their offices provided rationale for their votes in response to messages from South Dakota Searchlight.

 South Dakota Searchlight staff

The government has done this

Tammy Tesson Puhlmann, 63, who lived for decades in Florissant, Missouri, sat in the Russell Senate Office Building Wednesday showing photos of her son Drew  first, as a baby who was born with a rare blood disease, and then as a thin 30-year-old man just a week before he died of cancer.

If I can prevent one mom from having to go through something like this, I would do anything, she said through tears. Its the most unbearable feeling in the world to know that there is nothing you can do for your child, and to know that the government has done this.

Puhlmann was among 10 eastern Missouri residents and state representatives who met with 10 lawmakers on Wednesday, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise; U.S. Reps. Ann Wagner and Blaine Luetkemeyer, both Republicans of Missouri; and the states GOP Sens. Eric Schmitt and Hawley.

Missouri state Reps. Tricia Byrnes and Richard West, both Republicans, who represent districts just outside St. Louis, flipped through maps and photos documenting the contaminated sites, including where a uranium processing plant and byproduct dumping ground were located next to Francis Howell High School, which Byrnes attended.

Look how close it was to all of the contamination. That high school is still there, Byrnes said, pointing to a map.

To Byrnes left sat Kristin Denbow, a 1988 Francis Howell graduate who has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer in the bone marrow.

We have memories of men in full containment suits walking around the grounds of our high school while we were there, Denbow said.

This has been our lives

Three generations of Susie Gaffneys family made their homes in the suburbs of St. Louis near Coldwater Creek, unaware that radioactive waste relocated from the downtown uranium plant was leaking into the water.

Susies husband, Jim, grew up in a house beside the creek and not far from Jana Elementary School, which closed in 2023 because of radioactive contamination.

Jim grew up playing in the creek, everybody did. Everybody who tells the creek stories played (there). It was awesome, it wasnt deep. Kids fished, they made mudslides. It was a great place to live, Gaffney said.

Jim, whose mother died of colon cancer after being diagnosed in her 40s, developed lymphoma at the age of 24.

Susie Gaffney, 66, who now lives in OFallon, Missouri, holds a packet of papers that she distributed to lawmakers on Capitol Hill on March 22, 2024. The packet contained photos of her son Joey, 45, who developed thyroid cancer at 18, and her husband, Jim, 68, who survived bladder cancer and now lives with myelodysplastic syndrome. Three generations of her family lived along Coldwater Creek, which is contaminated with radioactive waste. (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom)

When Susie and Jims son Joey was an infant, they moved to a nearby subdivision named Wedgewood, a few miles down the creek. Joey also played in the water as a child.

Joey was diagnosed at 18 with thyroid cancer and eventually underwent a thyroidectomy. Gaffney, now 66, recalls the doctors telling her, This kid is Chernobyl.

This is what happened in Chernobyl. He has metastasized thyroid cancer. This is what happened there. He had to be exposed to radiation and naively I said, Well, where? And so this has been our lives, she said.

Joey is now 45. Jim, 68, was also diagnosed with bladder cancer and is now living with myelodysplastic syndrome, Gaffney said.

Hes living on blood transfusions, she said, pointing to a photo of him on a packet of papers she was handing out to lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

Below the photo of Jim was a map of the region with red dots for each cancer case.

I just want people to tunnel in, Gaffney said. Pretend youre on Google Earth, zoom all the way down and get on those front doors and picture our lifespan with health care, with depression, with anxiety, fear. Our quality of life has definitely been affected, all of us.

Debate on Capitol Hill

The governments nearly expired compensation program pays one-time sums of $75,000 to those who developed certain diseases after working on U.S. nuclear tests before 1963. It pays $50,000 to those who lived in select counties downwind from test explosion sites between January 1951 and October 1958, and the month of July in 1962, in Arizona, Nevada and Utah.

Uranium industry workers who were employed in 11 states from 1942 to 1971 and subsequently developed eligible illnesses qualify for $100,000.

Hawleys bill, co-sponsored by Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico, would also expand to include the entirety of Arizona, Nevada and Utah, and include downwind and affected areas in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, and Guam. Additionally, the one-time compensation sums to victims or surviving family members would increase to $100,000.

If enacted, the legislation would reach areas including ZIP codes in Alaska, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee, where communities were impacted by radioactive waste dumping, uranium processing and other related activities surrounding the testing.

The bills estimated cost of $50 billion to $60 billion has drawn criticism. Hawleys office confirmed the estimate. There is not an official budget score.

On Thursday, Sen. Mike Lee of Utah, asked for unanimous consent on the Senate floor for his proposed clean extension of the program as it exists for another two years  only covering those affected in areas of Arizona, Nevada and Utah.

Lee cited the risk of inflating the deficit by at least $60 billion and questioned whether enough data backs contamination in the additional areas in Hawleys bill.

You see, the House of Representatives has thus far declined to take up and pass Sen. Hawleys previous bill, with some signaling concern and raising some of the concerns that I just restated, the Utah Republican said.

Hawley objected, and Lujan spoke in support of the objection.

Study after study has shown the expanse of the nuclear radiation. Here is a study from 1997, from 2005, another from 2005, from 2023, all showing that the nuclear radiation is far beyond the contours of the original RECA bill passed in 1990, Hawley said. Yet my friend from Utah wants to keep doing the same old thing, leaving out in the cold hundreds of thousands of Americans. I will not consent to it.

Lee responded, saying he understood the impassioned pleas from Hawley and Lujan. He offered an updated version that includes Missouri and New Mexico, but leaves out other states and Guam. His office cites an unofficial budget score of $30 billion.

There are other states in (Hawleys) legislation pending in the House that deal with law in the Marshall Islands, Idaho, Kentucky, Ohio, Alaska, and perhaps one or two other jurisdictions. The claims of those states are not on equal footing, Lee said.

That is where a lot of the  not all, but a lot of the expense is accrued and a lot of concerns expressed in the House impeding its quick passage over there that might lead to it not being able to be passed at all, he continued.

Hawley again objected, saying he will not be party to any attempt at some halfway measure, some short stopgap bill, or some effort to sweep this under the rug.

A spokesperson for House Speaker Mike Johnson, of Louisiana, told States Newsroom on May 15 that The Speaker understands and appreciates Senator Hawleys position and is working closely with interested members and stakeholders to chart a path forward for the House.

RECA was established in 1990.

The U.S. conducted more than 1,000 atomic weapons tests from 1945 to 1992  the first at the Trinity Test site near Alamogordo, New Mexico, where scientists detonated the Manhattan Projects first atomic bomb prior to the U.S. dropping the weapons on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, at the end of World War II.

As of June 2022, the government has approved more than 36,000 RECA claims for more than $2.3 billion in benefits.

Unless the fund is extended, claims have to be postmarked by June 10, 2024, according to the Department of Justice, which administers the payouts.

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The post People affected by radiation exposure push Congress to extend benefits appeared first on South Dakota Searchlight.
Person hurt after being hit by car in northeast Charlotte, MEDIC says

A person has been seriously hurt after being hit by a car in northeast Charlotte early Friday morning, according to MEDIC.

The incident occurred just after 12:30 a.m. on West Sugar Creek Road near Hidden Valley Road.

MEDIC said the victim was taken to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.

ALSO READ: CMPD investigating deadly crash involving pedestrian in Uptown

It is unclear what led up to this incident.

This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

VIDEO: CMPD investigating deadly crash involving pedestrian in Uptown




Is this your pet? Berkeley police search for owner of wandering pig

(KRON)  Is this your pet? The Berkeley Police Department is looking for the owner of a lightly coated brown pig found wandering around Berkeley on Thursday.

Photo Courtesy: Berkeley Police Department

The unusual discovery of the pig was found wandering on McGee Avenue and Bancroft Way in Berkeley. BPD said the pig is now safe with animal control.

If you know who this pig belongs to, police ask that you contact the City of Berkeley Animal Services at (510) 981-6600.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
(Bloomberg) -- Petrobrass board of directors appointed Magda Chambriard as the state-controlled oil giants next chief executive officer, who enters the job with a clear mandate to ramp up investments in sectors including refining.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Chambriard will also become a member of the board of the directors, the company said in a filing on Friday.

Shares of Petroleo Brasileiro SA, as the company is formally known, are down 10% since Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva fired Chambriards predecessor on May 14. Investors are concerned that the company will prioritize investments in areas such as refining and renewable energy that arent as profitable as extracting oil from deep-water fields, in an effort to help create jobs and accelerate economic growth.

Read More: Petrobras Gets Exploration Champion Loyal to Lula as New CEO

Petrobras, Latin Americas largest oil producer, has long been a political tool for Brazilian presidents whove tried to make the company a vehicle for their economic vision  whether that means heavy state intervention or a hands-off approach. Lula, who returned to the presidency last year, has criticized the previous CEO, Jean Paul Prates, over the amount of dividends Petrobras paid to investors instead of using the money to make investments.

Chambriard, an engineer by training, began working at Petrobras in the 1980s and joined the Brazilian National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels in the 2000s, before becoming the head of the agency in 2012.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Fresnos feral cat problem is so out of control theyre now considered pests.

More and more, local school districts, shopping centers, churches and apartment complexes are relying on pest control companies to eradicate the growing numbers of cat colonies on their properties. Employees of these companies bait and set live traps and sometimes dont check them frequently enough, leaving trapped cats and kittens exposed to the elements for extended periods.

Whats more, pest control companies arent forthcoming about what they do with the cats they trap. One firm blatantly lies about the availability of local shelters and rescues. And school officials, when asked for comment about the practice, dont respond to questions.

Last August, a trapped kitten left three days under the broiling sun was found dead by a cat rescue advocate on a Central Unified school campus.

Opinion

A week ago, Cassie Garcia received word from a teacher at Yosemite Middle School about a weakened kitten trapped more than a day in a cage identified as belonging to Eagle Shield Pest Control. Garcia took in the animal and later returned to the school accompanied by Fresno TNR co-founder Brandi Sherman. Theyve since captured two more kittens from the same litter and are still seeking one more and their elusive mother.

We really dont stop until we get the mom, Garcia said.

Trap-Neuter-Return is an effective, humane method for controlling cat populations. There are 66,000 free-roaming cats in Fresno County, according to estimates provided during a Board of Supervisors meeting in June 2022.

While many California cities offer TNR service for free or at low cost, that hasnt been the case here (although Fresno County recently set aside $500,000 for a pilot program for unincorporated residents). Leaving volunteers like Sherman and Garcia to shoulder the burden.

Rescue homes for Fresnos kittens, those born outdoors or in loving homes, can typically be found. Kittens are adopted not just locally but transported throughout Northern California and Oregon. Adult ferals and community cats trapped by Fresno TNR are spayed or neutered  the nonprofits partners cover most or all of the veterinarians bill  before being released back into familiar surroundings.

A former vet tech who works nights in a human hospital, Sherman estimates Fresno TNR takes in between 800 and 1,000 cats per month during the spring, a time known as kitten season. In 2023 alone, the nonprofit fixed more than 6,700 owned and community cats.

Fresno TNR volunteer Cassie Garcia took in this feral kitten after a teacher at Yosemite Middle School found it in a weakened state after being left for days in a pest control companys trap.

In recent years, Fresno TNR volunteers began to encounter animal traps left by pest control companies at apartment complexes and shopping malls. There was a well-known incident in 2000 when two cats were found dead in a pest control cage outside Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, which led to protests.

This practice of trapping feral cats now includes two local school districts, Fresno Unified and Central Unified, which are contracted with Eagle Shield Pest Control. Other firms identified by Fresno TNR include Valley Wide Pest Control, Ecolab Pest Control and AAA Animal Control.

These companies are setting traps on school grounds and going days without checking them, Sherman said. The school districts are hiring these companies, and I dont think they realize what these companies are doing to the cats.

What these companies are doing is inhumane, Garcia added. Cats die in the sun.

Push back from company official

Brad Kendrick, Eagle Shields chief operating officer, pushed back on the inhumane accusation. He said the companys traps were recently outfitted with trail cameras that notify technicians when an animal is caged so they can promptly collect it.

When traps are left at schools, Kendrick added, most of the time its to capture a raccoon, opossum, skunk or fox but sometimes a cat or kitten will get stuck inside. On occasions when traps are intentionally set for cats, its typically because of fleas.

Our primary responsibility is to get those animals off campus to provide a healthy environment for the children, Kendrick said.

Eagle Shields field technicians are licensed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. But cats, unlike raccoons and foxes, are classified as domestic animals.

So what does Eagle Shield do with the cats it traps? Kendrick said they are released away from campus but in the immediate area, acknowledging this means the cats usually go right back to where they were found.

I asked Kendrick directly if any cats trapped by his companys techs get euthanized. He said, No.

If the intention was to euthanize them, certainly the cameras wouldnt be necessary, Kendrick replied. We dont want to hurt them. Thats the whole point.

Brandi Sherman, who operates Fresno TNR which offers reduced rates for neutering cats that are trapped and then released, holds one the strays she treated. Photographed Tuesday, May 23, 2023 in Fresno.

Eagle Shield doesnt mention cats on its website, which focuses on insect and spider infestations. However theres another firm, All City Animal Trapping, that bills itself as Fresnos feral cat trapping and removal experts.

We always take the cats to the closest humane society to clean them up and integrate them into domestication, reads the companys website. Fresno has some great facilities that are remarkable at integrating these cats into a healthy home environment.

This statement couldnt be more bogus. There isnt a single animal shelter in the Fresno area, not even the Central California SPCA, that will accept feral cats.

When I called the number for All City Animal Trapping and inquired what they do with the cats they trap, the person on the other end promptly hung up.

Likewise, I received no reply from Fresno Unified officials (including Board President Susan Wittrup and the entire communications staff) to questions about why the district contracts with a pest control company to trap cats.

Guess theyd rather not answer.

People need to stop hiring pest control companies to eradicate cats, and companies need to stop lying about what they do to them, Sherman said. Were happy to help anyone with feral and community cats and ask that people reach out on our Facebook page.

When cats get treated as pests rather than loved as pets, something is seriously wrong.

Fresno Bee columnist Marek Warszawski releases a neutered stray cat Tuesday, May 23, 2023 in Clovis.
TOKYO, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Japan's transport ministry carried out an inspection at a Japan Airlines (JAL) office at Haneda airport in Tokyo on Friday following a recent string of incidents involving the company's aircraft while taxiing, local media reported.

Four officials of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism entered the office to conduct an extraordinary audit involving hearings to assess the airline's responses to the incidents and its safety management system, Kyodo News reported.

The ministry will instruct the JAL to rectify any problems if current arrangements are found to be lacking, it said.

On Thursday, the tip of the wing on a JAL aircraft carrying about 300 passengers and crew bumped the wing tip of another JAL passenger plane on the apron at Haneda Airport.

The incident is the latest in a series of recent airfield collisions. On May 10 at Fukuoka airport in southwestern Japan, a JAL plane crossed a stop line leading to a runway without the control tower's clearance, forcing another plane to abandon takeoff. A JAL passenger jet collided with a Japan Coast Guard plane at Haneda Airport on Jan. 2, killing five of the six crew on the Coast Guard plane. 
MANILA (Reuters) - The situation in the Taiwan Strait, where China has carried out military exercises, is an "internal matter," Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Friday, declining to comment on drills that Taiwan has condemned.

China's military conducted a second day of war games around Taiwan on Friday, with drills to test its ability to "seize power" and control key areas. Beijing has said the exercises were launched to punish Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te.

"I will not comment on anything on the Taiwan Strait, as that's an internal matter for them," Teodoro told reporters on the sidelines of a Philippine Navy anniversary event.

China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and denounces Lai as a "separatist". It strongly criticised his inauguration speech on Monday, in which he urged Beijing to cease threats and said the two sides of the strait were "not subordinate to each other".

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr drew China's ire in January when he congratulated Lai after winning an election, referring to him as president.

China in response summoned the Philippine ambassador and warned the country "not to play with fire", calling the message from Marcos gross interference and a serious violation of the "One China" principle.

Marcos later defended his remarks, stressing that his message was "common courtesy" and he did not endorse Taiwan independence. U.S. ally Manila has said it wanted to recognise the Philippines and Taiwan's "mutual interests", including 200,000 Filipino workers on the island.

(Reporting by Karen Lema; Editing by Martin Petty and Gerry Doyle)
U.S. Secretary of State Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan meet with Philippines counterparts at U.S. State Department in Washington

MANILA (Reuters) - Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Friday that China's rules about how its Coast Guard can operate in the South China Sea were a matter of international concern, describing them as a provocation.

China, which has maritime sovereignty disputes with the Philippines and other claimant countries in the South China Sea, has issued new rules that would enforce a 2021 law explicitly allowing its Coast Guard to fire on foreign vessels.

"Such behaviour is not only a violation of UNCLOS, but also a violation of precepts the UN charter which lays upon each responsible state the duty to refrain from the use of force or aggression to enforce, particularly in this case, illegal territorial claims in the maritime domain," Teodoro said in a speech at the Philippine Navy's anniversary.

"That is a provocation insofar as I am concerned," he added.

The Philippines and China have had several maritime run-ins in the South China Sea in the past few months that included the use of water cannon by Chinese coast guard vessels that damaged Manila's boats and injured crew members.

Responding to concerns, the Chinese foreign ministry has said this week the new rules were meant to protect the maritime order, and that there was no need to worry if there was no illegal behaviour by the individuals and bodies involved.

(Reporting by Karen Lema and Mikhail Flores; Editing by John Mair)
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, left, receives a memento from Philippine Navy Chief, Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr, during the 126th Philippine Navy anniversary in Manila, Philippines on Friday, May 24, 2024. The Philippines would press efforts to build security alliances and stage realistic combat drills, including joint naval sails with the United States, Japan and Australia in disputed waters, to defend its territorial interests, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said Friday, dismissing China's criticisms of such moves as a sign of paranoia. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

MANILA, Philippines (AP)  The Philippines will continue to build security alliances and stage joint combat drills in disputed waters to defend its territorial interests, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said Friday, dismissing Chinas criticisms of such moves as paranoia.

Teodoro bluntly criticized Beijings increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea, without citing China by name, in a speech before the militarys top brass at a ceremony marking the anniversary of the Philippine navys founding in Manila. The Philippines, he said, would not tolerate aggression and provocative moves.

Since territorial hostilities with China surged last year in the South China Sea, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration has taken steps to forge new security alliances with a number of Asian and Western countries and allowed a U.S. military presence in more Philippine bases under a 2014 defense pact.

In April and May, the Philippine military staged annual live-fire combat exercises with U.S. forces in and near the disputed waters.

China has said such actions by the U.S. and its allies, including the Philippines, were provocative, aimed to contain Beijing and were endangering regional security.

Terming these cooperative activities with like-minded nations as a containment or a provocation is disinformation and evidence of paranoia of a closed political system, Teodoro said in a clear reference to China. The ultimate intent is to get what they want by the threat or the use of force. This we cannot allow to continue.

The Philippines is the U.S.'s oldest treaty ally in Asia. Washington has warned that it is obligated to help defend the Philippines if its forces, aircraft and ships come under an armed attack, including in the disputed South China Sea.

The Philippines has defense pacts allowing American and Australian forces to enter the country for annual combat-readiness and disaster-response training and is negotiating a similar agreement with Japan and considering another pact with France. It has held joint maneuvers with the U.S., Australian and Japanese navies this year.

In their largest and boldest annual military exercises last month, thousands of U.S. and Philippine forces staged the retaking of an island and sank a warship in combat drills focusing on territorial defense in or near the South China Sea. They carried out aerial reconnaissance and logistical transport drills and secured an airfield during mock combat in a Philippine town near Taiwan.

For the first time we have evolved a realistic training scenario with evolutionary hypothetical scenarios where we can actually test our capabilities, Teodoro said. There will be more maritime cooperative activity between us and like-minded nations.

Chinese Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said in Beijing last month that we oppose external interference, muscle-flexing, provocations and harassment in the South China Sea and oppose piecing together exclusive circles or bloc confrontation." He said China would resolutely defend its territories.

Philippine actions to defend its internationally recognized exclusive economic zone can, in no way, be termed by any sane person as a provocation, Teodoro said, adding that Philippine officials were sworn to do that as their constitutional duty.

In addition to China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan are also involved in territorial disputes in the South China Sea, a key global trade route.

Marcos has ordered his military to shift its focus to external defense from decades of domestic anti-insurgency operations as Chinas actions in the South China Sea become a top concern. That shift dovetails with efforts by U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration to reinforce an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's actions.

___

Associated Press journalists Joeal Calupitan and Aaron Favila contributed to this report.
LIBERTY, Mo.  The pilot of a small plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Clay County, Missouri, while on a practice flight.

The Clay County Sheriffs Office reports the incident happened around 3 p.m. Thursday in a field off of H Highway between Liberty and Missouri City.

Kansas City business makes flags that fly all over the country

The pilot and passenger said they had mechanical problems while on a practice flight and were forced to land in a field.

Online records show the plan took off from Lees Summit. No injuries were reported during the incident.

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The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating.

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Authorities have released shocking new information about a case involving a Camarillo man who is currently behind bars for one murder and was recently linked with another.

Rotherie Durell Foster, 38, was arrested last year in connection with the murder of 35-year-old Jose Antonio Velasquez, who was reported missing in July 2022 and whose body was found months later off Mulholland Drive in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Rotherie Durell Foster is seen in a photo released by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office on Jan. 18, 2023.

Foster and Velasquez knew each other and were both plumbers, officials from the Ventura County District Attorneys Office and Sheriffs Office said. Its alleged Foster used a gun to violently and forcibly obtain the other mans banking and financial information and personal checks, which he then used to acquire cash and pay for things like gas, clothing and food.

UPS driver shot 14 times by childhood friend, authorities say

Foster was eventually arrested and charged with the murder of Velasquez, but as prosecutors and investigators began to build the case against him, they discovered abnormalities that they said showed it wasnt the first time hed committed an act of murder and paid himself after their deaths.

Investigators subpoenaed Fosters bank account information and discovered multiple payments made to him by 72-year-old Bill Dean Levy, a Los Angeles man who was found dead inside his Granada Hills home on Jan. 10, 2022.

The home of Bill Levy, who died in January 2022, is shown in this undated photo provided by the Ventura County District Attorneys Office.

The home of Bill Levy, who died in January 2022, is shown in this undated photo provided by the Ventura County District Attorneys Office.

Mr. Levy was a quiet but nice man who lived a regimented lifestyle and kept a rigid schedule about his daily routines, said Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff, adding that neighbors grew concerned when he suddenly disappeared from view.

Fryhoff said there was no reason to believe there was any foul play associated with his death, which was originally ruled to have been the result of natural causes.

But as investigators looked deeper into Fosters financials, they were shocked to discover that the payments Levy appeared to have made happened on Jan. 11, 2022  the day after he was found dead.

Investigators determined that Foster had done plumbing work at Levys house on several occasions and during a press conference Wednesday, officials said there appeared to be a troubling and similar pattern that showed the potential for murder for financial gain.

Levys body was later exhumed and a full autopsy was performed at which point the Los Angeles County Medical Examiners Office determined his death was the result of exposure to fentanyl, a highly potent narcotic. His cause of death was then changed to homicide.

Fryhoff said additional evidence tied Foster to Levys killing, which led to the new murder charges being filed earlier this week.

Bill Levy, who died in January 2022, is shown in this undated photo provided by the Ventura County District Attorney's Office. Investigators believe Levy was intentionally poisoned with fentanyl by a man suspected in another murder.

But the sheriff says Fosters crimes arent just limited to those two individuals. Other suspicious transactions appear to connect him to a Los Angeles man whod also hired him for plumbing services.

Additionally, authorities believe Foster committed an armed robbery in July 2022 at a convenience store in which he tied up the employees and stole an undisclosed amount of cash. Cell phone data and license plate photos show that Foster was involved in that robbery, Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said.

Foster has since been charged in connection with the convenience store robbery.

In total, he faces 33 felony charges and over 100 special allegations, including murder in the first degree, murder in the commission of a burglary, forgery, identity theft and intentional and deliberate administration of a poison.

Foster previously was sentenced as a juvenile to 21 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter and assault with a deadly weapon. He was paroled in 2018, and Nasarenko said he wasnt sure how much of that sentence he ultimately served.

At the conclusion of the press conference, Nasarenko provided additional information about Bill Levy, who he said grew up in Westchester and was one of ten siblings. He lived alone and previously worked as a bookkeeper and an employee of the United States Postal Service.

Mr. Levy donated his entire estate to the City of Hope, The American Heart Association, Childrens Hospital and Delta Animal Rescue, Nasarenko said.

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Pro-Palestinian protesters defend themselves against a pro-Israeli supporter at an encampment at UCLA on May 1. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles)

A pro-Israeli counterprotester was arrested Thursday morning by UCLA police, weeks after he allegedly assaulted occupants of a campus protest encampment with a wooden pole.

According to the UCLA Police Department, detectives interviewed witnesses and victims and reviewed security camera footage from the pro-Palestinian demonstration to identify the suspect, who was not affiliated with the campus and was allegedly among a group who violently attacked students, faculty and staff April 30.

Read more: Police descend on UCLA after protesters erect new pro-Palestinian encampment

The 18-year-old man was detained at a business in Beverly Hills and booked on suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon, police said. He is being held in Los Angeles County jail on $30,000 bail. This appears to be the first arrest of a counterprotester.

A law enforcement source confirmed to The Times that the man is Edan On, who was identified by CNN last week as a counterprotester wearing a white hoodie and a mask in widely shared images and videos that showed him repeatedly hitting a pro-Palestinian protester with the pole. On is also listed on the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department arrest log.

In a deleted Facebook post, On's mother, Sharon On-Siboni, shared a photo of her son from a Fox 11 news segment at UCLA that she captioned in Hebrew, "Edan went to bully the Palestinian students in the tents at UCLA and played the song that they played to the Nukhba terrorists in prison! according to a law enforcement source.

When reached by phone on Friday morning, a relative who answered On-Siboni's phone declined to comment about the arrest, and On remained in jail as of Friday morning. He's scheduled to appear in court Tuesday.

"The UCLA Police Department is committed to investigating all reported acts of violence and is actively working to identify the other perpetrators of violence associated with any protest or counter-protest activities between April 25, 2024, and May 2, 2024," the Police Department said in a statement. "The investigations are ongoing."

A group of student reporters were among those attacked by counterprotesters on April 30. The violence prompted an independent review of the university's actions and law enforcement's response to the campus unrest. Universities across the country have been disrupted by protests over the Israel-Hamas war.

Protesters who erected a Palestine solidarity encampment came under attack by hundreds of pro-Israel counterprotesters armed with fireworks, a gas irritant and blunt objects. For hours, the violence intensified as private security guards and campus police watched from a distance.

Mary Osako, vice chancellor for UCLA strategic communications, said in a statement, Horrific acts of violence occurred at the encampment tonight and we immediately called law enforcement for mutual aid support. The fire department and medical personnel are on the scene. We are sickened by this senseless violence and it must end.

Scores of protesters were injured by the time police in riot gear arrived on the campus.

In early May, more than 200 people were arrested at UCLA as police and protesters clashed for hours.

Read more: After violent night at UCLA, classes cancelled, UC president launches investigation into response

Campus Police Chief John Thomas was removed from his post and reassigned, officials said earlier this week, after he was criticized for security failures that led to violence at a pro-Palestinian encampment. Thomas later defended his actions in an interview and said he did the best he could. And UCLA Chancellor Gene Block was interrogated by members of Congress on Thursday over his handling of complaints regarding campus antisemitism.

In his opening remarks during the congressional hearing, Block said, "With the benefit of hindsight, we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk."

UCLA created a new campus safety office and an independent police consultant is reviewing the school's response to the events of April 30, Block said.

"Finally, we will hold accountable those who engaged in violence and violated our policies," he said.

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) said the images from UCLA were appalling, but even worse was that it was completely preventable. She told Block multiple times during the hearing that he should be ashamed for the injuries that took place under his watch.

You, the UCLA leadership and law enforcement stood by for hours as the mob of agitators gathered near the encampment with a clear intention to cause violence, she said. I would like to know if you are truly committed to keeping your students safe. How did you fail these students at many critical points where you couldve intervened?

Thank you for the question, but Im sorry but I reject the premise, Block replied, saying that UCLA is working with the LAPD to identify attackers. He said the university tried to to get police there as quickly as possible.

Times reporters Jaweed Kaleem, Andrea Castillo and Jenny Jarvie contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Police arrested a suspect in a deadly weekend shooting in the northwest valley. The 8 News Now Investigators learned the shooting is gang-related.

Keveon Glenn, 29, was identified as a suspect in the shooting that left one person dead and two others injured on the afternoon of Saturday, May 18, and was taken into custody on May 23, Las Vegas Metropolitan police said.

A crime scene near the intersection of Prairie Falcon Road and Tenaya Way in the northwest Las Vegas valley where 3 were shot Saturday afternoon. (Mark Mutchler/KLAS)

The shooting occurred in the 7300 block of Prairie Falcon Road, off Tenaya Way, north of Smoke Ranch Road. When officers arrived at the scene, they found three shooting victims. According to the Clark County coroners office, 41-year-old Carl Chester, Jr., 41, died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds. The two other victims were transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Fatal shooting leaves 1 dead, 2 injured in northwest Las Vegas valley

Glenn is facing one charge of murder, two charges of attempted murder, and a charge of conspiracy to commit murder. He is currently held at the Clark County Detention Center and is scheduled to appear in court on May 28.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials did not say whether there were any outstanding suspects. Investigators ask anyone with information on the shooting 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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Police face off with protesters after new UCLA encampment pops up

Editors note: This report has been updated to clarify an encampment was removed at UCLA.

Members of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) clashed with protesters on the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) campus after a second pro-Palestinian encampment popped up.

Videos and photos shared online showed groups of protesters forming a line to block members of the LAPD. Police were wearing helmets, had batons and pushed back protesters with the sticks and their hands.

According to ABC 7 reporter Josh Haskell, UCLA police entered the encampment after breaking a lock holding barriers together. LAPD handled crowd control, he said.

A small group of protesters set up a few tents in an outdoor space on campus Thursday morning and grew to several hundred protesters by the afternoon. Police, dressed in riot gear, pushed back the crowd and tore down the encampment, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Its not known if any arrests were made or if injuries have been reported, but a graduate student told the Times that its a very fraught, violent environment.

The academic workers union announced Thursday that its ongoing strike over working conditions would be expanding onto the UCLA and University of California, Davis campuses. Union members say their free speech rights were violated when UC system leaders had police forcibly remove pro-Palestine encampments, including at UCLA, the outlet reported.

The clash follows a similar incident in late April. Counterprotesters attempted to breach barriers erected by the university to separate pro-Israel protesters and pro-Palestine protesters, resulting in physical altercations.

Police dismantled the encampment on Apr. 30, and there were some 200 arrests, The Associated Press reported.

The university released a statement denouncing the April incident, saying it was heartbroken that violence broke out since the school has a long history of being a place where people can peacefully protest.

A UCLA police chief was also temporarily reassigned after the violent interaction. The school said John Thomas had been reassigned temporarily as the university examines its security processes.

UCLA is one of many schools across the country holding pro-Palestine protests denouncing the United Statess role in the Israel-Hamas war and calling on their schools to divest from Israeli companies or companies that provide weapons to Israel.

Updated on May 24 at 1:38 p.m. EDT

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BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- U.S. carmaker Tesla broke ground on a mega factory in Shanghai on Thursday to produce its energy-storage batteries Megapack. The move coincided with rapid growth of China's new energy-storage industry, which is backed by the country's commitment to developing the green economy and renewable energy.

As China strives to achieve its dual carbon goals, the country is vigorously developing a green economy, with renewable energy as one of the engines, which provides a robust demand for the new energy storage industry.

This year's government work report noted the development of new energy storage as one of the measures to promote green and low-carbon development.

New energy storage refers to energy-storage technologies other than conventional pump storage. It offers advantages such as a short construction period, flexible layout and fast response.

An energy-storage system charges when wind power or photovoltaic power generates a large volume of electricity or when the power consumption is low, and it discharges otherwise. It can smooth the unstable output of photovoltaic power or wind power to increase the proportion of renewable energy in the grid, playing a vital role in mass use of renewable energy.

VAST MARKET

China's renewable energy sector has maintained fast growth in recent years. According to the latest data from China's National Energy Administration, in the first quarter of 2024, the country's newly installed capacity of renewable energy was 63.67 million kW, marking an increase of 34 percent year on year.

In the first quarter, the renewable energy generation reached 687.5 billion kWh, accounting for 30.7 percent of total power generation.

The rapid growth of renewable energy generation has created a large market demand for energy storage facilities. By the end of the first quarter of 2024, the cumulative installed capacity of new energy-storage projects in China had reached 35.3 million kW. This marks an increase of more than 12 percent over the end of 2023 and an increase of more than 210 percent year on year.

According to a report recently issued by China Energy Storage Alliance, the world's newly installed capacity of new energy storage reached a record high of 45.6 million kW in 2023. China, Europe, and the United States continue to lead the global market in the sector. Their newly installed capacity in 2023 accounted for 88 percent of the global total, with China making up nearly 50 percent.

Commenting on China's new energy market, Tesla's vice president Tao Lin said China boasts vast market potential and complete industrial chains. After the groundbreaking ceremony Thursday, Tesla signed a deal with Shanghai Lingang Economic Development (Group) Co., Ltd., securing the first batch of orders for its Megapacks in China.

TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

Tesla's Megapack is an electrochemical energy storage device that uses lithium batteries, a dominant technical route in the new energy-storage industry. About 97 percent of China's new energy-storage facilities used lithium batteries in 2023.

Recognizing the diverse scenarios and needs in power systems, China is encouraging technological innovation in new energy storage, achieving breakthroughs across various technical approaches.

At the beginning of 2024, the National Energy Administration released a list of 56 new energy-storage pilot projects. About 30 percent of the projects belong to Lithium-ion battery route, others cover fields of compressed air, flow battery, sodium-ion battery, gravity, flywheel, carbon dioxide, lead-carbon battery and liquid air.

Some local projects across the country that use innovative technologies have recently been begun test operations or been put into service.

Taking this month for example. On May 4, a gravity energy-storage station completed the test operation in Rudong County, east China's Jiangsu. The station uses an 148-meter-high gravity storage tower to store electricity. The county plans to build a total of six such stations.

On May 11, a sodium-ion battery energy-storage station was put into operation in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, as an initial phase of an energy-storage project. After completion, the project's overall capacity will reach a level of 100 MWh, which can meet the power demand of some 35,000 households every year.

Southwest China's Sichuan Province also announced in May that it will build a vanadium-battery energy storage industry base and support the application of such energy storage facilities in renewable energy generation, power grid peak regulation and frequency regulation, and communication base station energy storage. 
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  The San Diego Police Department has identified the three officers involved in a fatal shooting Monday in the Morena neighborhood.

Around 10:40 a.m. Monday, police received a call regarding a robbery and assault with a deadly weapon at a market in the 1000 block of Moreno Boulevard, according to Lt. Michael Krugh with the San Diego County Sheriffs Department.

RELATED: Robbery suspect shot, killed by police

The victim told police a man in his 20s left the store without paying for merchandise after asking if the store accepted credit cards. Before fleeing on foot, the man pulled out a knife and threatened the victim as he attempted to stop him, according to an earlier press release.

Later that morning, police saw a man who matched the suspects description provided by the victim in the 5300 block of Napa Street and tried to stop him. Officers used a stun gun on the man, but he continued to flee on foot.

Man shot by SDPD officer expected to survive

Officers followed the man to a transient encampment in the 5300 block of Friars Road, according to Lt. Krugh. Thats when the suspect approached an uninvolved man, took him hostage and held a knife to his neck.

Three officers fired shots at the suspect, according to Lt. Krugh. The suspect died at the scene despite lifesaving measures by first responders, authorities said. No officers were injured in the incident, nor was the man who was being held hostage by the suspect.

The three officers have been identified as Matthew Steinbach, Michael Howells and Justin Tellam. Officer Steinbach has been with SDPD for 12 years, while Officer Tellam has worked with the department for six-and-a-half. Officer Howells has been with SDPD for a year and a half.

Im in the passenger seat of my own body: Former TikTok star testifies about the moment he killed his wife

SDPD has identified the suspect but is withholding his name pending family notification.

The San Diego County Sheriffs Department Homicide Unit responded to the scene to investigate the officer-involved shooting. The motivation and circumstances of the shooting are still under investigation, Lt. Krugh said in the release.

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Police need your help finding these robbery suspects

Police need your help finding these robbery suspects

Police are looking for help to find two suspects in a Milan Walgreens robbery.

On Sunday, May 12 at approximately 9:58 p.m., the Milan Police Department responded to a call to Walgreens in reference to a robbery. Officers arrived and learned that two men wearing black facemasks and all black clothing entered the store at closing time and demanded money. The suspects, armed with a firearm, left with an undisclosed amount of currency and were driving a stolen vehicle, later found at the Century Woods Apartment Complex.

According to a release, officers are attempting to identify the suspects below:

Suspect #1 Black man, thin build, between 57 and 59 in height, wearing a black Nike quarter-zip hoodie with a zipper pocket on the upper left breast area surrounded by a white border next to the Nike logo. Shoes appear to be black Nike shoes with a white in color sole. He walked with a slight in-toeing or pigeon-toed walk.

Suspect #2 Light-skinned Black man, medium build, between 510 and 60 in height, wearing all black clothing. Red in color shoes. Suspect was carrying what appeared to be an AR-style rifle.

Suspect #1 (Milan Police Department)

Suspect #2 (Milan Police Department)

Officers are reviewing surveillance footage and sharing information with local law enforcement agencies to identify the suspects. The case remains under investigation by the Milan Police Departments Investigation Division.

Anyone with information about this case should contact the Milan Police Department Investigations Division at (309) 787-8716 or Crime Stoppers at (309) 762-9500 or by using the P3 Tips app.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A convicted sex offender has been identified as the suspect accused of sexually assaulting a woman outside of a Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) parking garage.

Metro police said 39-year-old Daniel Revette is wanted for the May 11 sexual assault that happened outside of VUMCs East parking garage, located in the 1200 block of 21st Avenue South.

PREVIOUS: Metro police seeking suspect in sexual assault outside VUMC parking garage

Detectives and scientists at the MNPDs crime lab worked together and identified Revette as the suspect. Warrants were issued Thursday, May 23, charging him with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated sexual batter, and attempted rape.

Police said Revette is believed to be homeless and anyone who sees him or knows of his whereabouts is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

Daniel Revette (Source: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Daniel Revette (Source: Metro Nashville Police Department)

On May 11, a VUMC employee saw a man, subsequently identified as Revette, pacing nearby. When she tried to walk away from the area, Revette allegedly grabbed her from behind and started choking her, threatening to kill her if she made any noise. During the ensuing struggle, he forcibly fondled the victim who managed to break free and escape, according to investigators.

Authorities said Revette was convicted of attempted rape in 2007 and received a six-year sentence. He is also under community supervision for life by the Tennessee Department of Correction.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

In 2021, Revette was convicted of aggravated assault and received a six-year sentence. He has also been convicted multiple times of violating the states sex offender registry law.

The state also swore out sex offender registration violation and community supervision violation warrants against Revette on Saturday, May 18.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Buffalo police are investigating after a teenager was shot Thursday night in the citys Hamlin Park neighborhood, officials announced.

Police said at approximately 10 p.m., officers responded to a call in the vicinity of Brunswick Boulevard and Wohlers Avenue, where an 18-year-old male was struck by gunfire outside multiple times.

The teen was transported by ambulance to ECMC, underwent surgery and was listed in stable condition.

Anyone with any information is asked to call or text the confidential tip line at 716-847-2255.

Latest Local News

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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Police say Milton home invasion not random, search continues for suspect

Police say a home invasion that ended with schools being put on lockdown miles away earlier this week was a targeted crime.

Police said the home invasion happened around 11:40 a.m. Monday when a man, armed with a gun, broke into a house on Highgrove Club Drive and stole the homeowners Escalade.

Two people were home, police said, and one of them suffered minor injuries.

Alpharetta police picked up the SUV near Haynes Bridge Middle School and started a chase that ended at the school parking lot.

TRENDING STORIES:

It triggered a lockdown at Haynes Bridge Middle and later at nearby New Prospect Elementary.

Police say the suspect never ran toward the school and instead ran toward Big Creek Greenway.

Milton police released surveillance photos of the man earlier this week.

Anyone with information on who the man may be asked to Milton police or email Detective Rebecca Tidwell at Rebecca.Tidwell@miltonga.gov.




A police officer is held in deadly shooting in riot-hit New Caledonia after Macron pushes for calm

FILE - Smoke rises during protests in Noumea, New Caledonia, Wednesday May 15, 2024. France has imposed a state of emergency in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. The French prosecutor for New Caledonia says there's been another shooting death in the riot-hit French Pacific territory, with a police officer taken into custody after using their firearm Friday May 24, 2024 when they were set upon by a group of about 15 people. It comes a day after French President Emmanuel Macron made an emergency round-trip from Paris to de-escalate the violence in New Caledonia where Indigenous Kanak people have long sought independence from France. (AP Photo/Nicolas Job, File)

PARIS (AP)  A police officer in riot-hit New Caledonia shot and killed a man Friday after being attacked by a group of about 15 people, the territory's prosecutor said, the seventh shooting death in the unrest shaking the French Pacific archipelago. The officer was in custody and an investigation was underway.

The fatal shooting came hours after an emergency round-trip from Paris by French President Emmanuel Macron to de-escalate the violence.

Prosecutor Yves Dupas says the officer is believed to have fired one shot, killing the 48-year-old man on Friday afternoon. On Thursday, Macron made a whistle-stop visit and urged local leaders to use their clout to help quell the unrest that erupted May 13, sparked by proposed voting reforms contested by Indigenous Kanak people who have long sought independence from France.

Macron laid out a roadmap that he said could culminate in another referendum for the territory, after three previous votes from 2018 to 2021 rejected independence. He said another could be on a new political deal for the territory that he hopes local leaders will work on in coming weeks and months.

But he said protesters barricades must first be dismantled, allowing for a state of emergency imposed by Paris to be lifted and for order to return.

In the meantime, Macron said he wouldn't rush through the contested overhaul of New Caledonia's voter rolls, opening a window for the possibility of an alternate political deal, perhaps more palatable to pro-independence leaders who fear the electoral change will marginalize Kanak voters. The French leader said he would take stock in one month at the most" of any progress.

What I ask for, immediately, is for roadblocks and flashpoints to be lifted," he said in an interview with New Caledonia media before jetting out on his return to France early Friday.

Once weve seen that happen, the next step is that we will lift the state of emergency," he said.

In place since May 15, the state of emergency has boosted police powers as officers battle the most severe violence since the 1980s in the archipelago of 270,000 people, with decades of tensions over the issue of independence between Kanaks and the descendants of colonists and other settlers.

A 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew is in effect. More than 1,000 reinforcements have been rushed in for the archipelagos police and gendarmes, now 3,000 strong. The seven people killed in shootings include two gendarmes. As of Friday, security forces had made more than 350 arrests, authorities said.

The La Tontouta International Airport remains closed to commercial flights but military flights have evacuated stranded tourists.

Kanaks fear the reform for provincial elections in New Caledonia will dilute their influence by allowing some more recent arrivals in the archipelago to vote. Both French houses of parliament in Paris have already approved the overhaul. It was then to be implemented with an amendment of France's Constitution, expected by the end of June at a special Congress of lawmakers in Versailles.

But after his day of meetings in New Caledonia with leaders on both sides of the bitter divide between Indigenous Kanaks who want independence and pro-Paris leaders who do not, Macron said he had pledged not to force through the reform to try, for the next few weeks, to give appeasement and dialogue a chance.

At the same time, he also cautioned: "Its not a blank check because we cant accept violence.

The longer it lasts, the harder it will be to backtrack, he said of the deadly unrest. Our security forces will maintain this level of deployment for as long as it takes."

Fires, looting and other violence targeting hundreds of businesses, homes, stores, public buildings and other sites have caused destruction estimated in the hundreds of millions of euros (dollars).

Barricades made up of charred vehicles and other debris have turned parts of Noumea, the capital, into no-go zones and made traveling around perilous, including for the sick requiring medical treatment and for families fretting about food and water after shops were pillaged and torched.

The prosecutor, in a written statement, said the police officer who opened fire and a colleague were driving in an area north of Noumea when they were physically attacked by a group of around 15 individuals.

The officer "allegedly used their service weapon by firing a shot to extract themselves from this physical altercation. A 48-year-old man was fatally shot, said that statement.

It said the officers' faces showed traces of having received blows.

The prosecutor said he has opened a voluntary homicide investigation into the shooting  customary for French officers in such cases  and the officer is in custody for questioning.

Macron flew to the archipelago under pressure from politicians in France and pro-independence supporters to delay or scrap the electoral reform. It would enlarge voter numbers in provincial elections for New Caledonias legislature and government, adding about 25,000 voters, including people who have been residents of the archipelago for at least 10 years and others born there.

Opponents fear the measure will benefit pro-France politicians in New Caledonia and further marginalize Kanaks, who once suffered from strict segregation policies and widespread discrimination. Supporters say the reform is democratically important for people with roots in New Caledonia who cant currently vote for local representatives.

__

Leicester reported from Le Pecq, France.
Amid a soaring number of violent incidents, Metro officials voted to authorize a surge of law enforcement and public safety officers to patrol transit vehicles.

The motion, which was introduced by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, was passed unanimously at a Thursday Metro board meeting where some community members expressed anger and frustration over the issue.

Recent attacks on Metro riders and operators, some fatal, have included shootings, stabbings, assaults, robberies, hijacks and more.

In the first three months of 2024, Metro has seen a 65% increase in total crime. Frustrations over the ongoing violence prompted Metro board members to address the issue at a May 16 press conference.

The Metros Board of Directors, which is comprised of local elected officials including Bass and the L.A. County Board of Supervisors, was critical of the presence  or lack thereof  of law enforcement personnel contracted to provide safety resources to riders.

Following the meeting, Bass called for an immediate surge of law enforcement personnel on Metro buses, trains and stations to address the concerns of drivers and passengers.

Metro security personnel patrolling a transit station in Los Angeles County. (KTLA)

Officers patrolling a Metro station in Los Angeles County. (KTLA)

The scene at the downtown Los Angeles Ritz-Carlton where a man hijacked a Metro bus and crashed into the hotel. March 21, 2024. (KTLA)

LAPD officers patrol Union Station on Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021 in Los Angeles. (Getty Images)

A Metro line train in the downtown area on March 8, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Getty Images)

Two men are seen being taken into custody outside a Metro station in downtown Los Angeles on May 16, 2024. (KTLA)

Video from LA Metro shows a bus driver behind a full plexiglass barrier that is larger and offers more cover than current barriers installed in 2020. (LA Metro)

Video from LA Metro shows a bus driver behind a full plexiglass barrier that is larger and offers more cover than current barriers installed in 2020. (LA Metro)

A Metro bus collided with a motorhome in South Los Angeles on Dec. 29, 2023. (OnScene.TV)

A Metro bus is seen after being hijacked and crashing in Downtown Los Angeles on March 21, 2024. (KTLA)

Deputies investigate a stabbing on a Metro station in Athens on May 13, 2024. (TNLA)

A suspect was arrested after a robbery attack on a Metro bus in Encino on May 14, 2024. (TNLA)

Four people were hurt when a Los Angeles Metro transit bus rolled backward into a wall. Dec. 16, 2023.

A suspect was arrested after a robbery attack on a Metro bus in Encino on May 14, 2024. (TNLA)

A Metro bus crosses train tracks in Los Angeles, California, US, on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023. A new downtown connector is a milestone in LAs $120 billion rail transit expansion plan, the largest in the US. But luring riders could require deeper change. Photographer: Eric Thayer/Bloomberg via Getty Images

L.A. police seen on a Metro train station platform in this undated photo. (RMG News)

L.A. deputies on the scene of a deadly shooting aboard a Metro bus in Commerce on May 16, 2024. (KTLA)

L.A. County Metro security seen outside Metros Pershing Square station in downtown L.A. where a stabbing occurred on Sept. 7, 2023. (KTLA)

The scene outside the Vermont/Sunset Metro station where an alleged trespasser was fatally shot by a security guard on May 7, 2024. (KTLA)

Armed Security guards patrolling a Metro Red Line subway station in East Hollywood on April 27, 2023. (KTLA)

Passengers wait for Metro Rail subway trains during rush hour June 3, 2008 in Los Angeles. (David McNew/Getty Images)

Passengers step from a train at the Universal City B (Red) Line Metro train station on December 6, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Getty Images)

The Gold Line is seen in an undated photo. (Credit: Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

The Metro Red Line subway station at Vermont/Santa Monica. (KTLA)

Police investigate a death on a Metro bus in Koreatown on Feb. 22, 2024. (KeyNews.TV)

Beginning Thursday, the approved motion authorizes 260 officers to be physically present on buses and trains, patrolling the transit system every day.

The motion also established a unified command of the law enforcement agencies policing the system including Metro security, the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department and the Long Beach Police Department.

Working cell phone reception and Wi-Fi coverage will also be required at all underground Metro stations and tunnels, during transit and on platforms. Spotty coverage remained a topic of concern for Metro leaders as it makes calling for help in emergencies unfeasible.

The only thing worse than finding yourself in an emergency situation is not being able to call for help, said Katy Yaroslavsky, board member and L.A. city councilmember. In 2024, there is no reason this should be an issue and yet we know there are dead zones in our system. We have a responsibility to fix this issue as quickly as possible.

The recent attacks had prompted Metro bus drivers to stage a sick out while a Metro board member said she was afraid and would not ride the system alone.

The board recently approved the acquisition of barriers to be placed between drivers and passengers on all Metro buses.

We have a responsibility to each and every rider and bus driver: they have to feel safe on Metro, said Janice Hahn, Metro Vice Chair and L.A. County Supervisor. Our law enforcement contracts are essential to safety, but they dont do anyone any good if officers are not riding our trains and buses.

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Police search for man who broke into Atlanta charter school while it was closed

Atlanta police are looking for a man who broke into a charter school while it was closed earlier this week.

Officers said just before 9:30 a.m. on Monday, a man was seen on surveillance camera at the Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School.

The school was closed at the time.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The person who reported the burglary to police said that 4 laptops, an iPad, and an Apple Pencil were missing after the man came to the school.

The man was seen wearing camo shorts with black slides, a gold chain and a white smartwatch.

Anyone with information on this case can submit a tip anonymously to the Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577-TIPS (8477), online at www.StopCrimeAtl.org, or by texting CSA and the tip to CRIMES (274637). Tipsters do not have to give their name or any identifying information to be eligible for the reward of up to $2,000.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientists will officially open to the public on May 30 with inaugural exhibitions honoring prestigious Chinese veteran scientists.

The inaugural exhibitions -- one main exhibition and five themed exhibitions -- cover a total area of 5,000 square meters at the museum, which is located in the National Communication Center for Science and Technology in north Beijing. They are part of activities to celebrate China's 8th annual National Science and Technology Workers Day which falls on May 30, according to the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST).

The main exhibition showcases over 400 physical objects and over 400 rare images of more than 190 scientists, as well as more than 10 large exhibits provided by research institutions.

The National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientists is the world's first museum established for the scientific community in the name of a nation, according to CAST.

CAST has been collecting data on the academic growth of Chinese senior scientists since 2009.

Over the past 15 years, this project has collected materials on 674 Chinese scientists, including letters, manuscripts, scientific instruments, works, audio and video recordings, as well as related artifacts and documents, making it the largest collection of valuable historical materials of scientists in China and a main source of exhibitions of the National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientists, according to CAST.

Starting from the afternoon of May 30, the public can make reservations online to visit the exhibitions free of charge. 
Police went to arrest N. GA man over an assault, find a magic mushroom and pot grow house

A Chattooga County man is behind bars after police said they discovered a grow house in his home while responding to an assault call.

Summerville police said they obtained an arrest warrant for Seth Jordan Lindsay after he was accused of assaulting a woman.

As officers were arresting him, they also discovered an indoor marijuana grow house, where police said he was also growing magic mushrooms.

TRENDING STORIES:

In addition to the indoor grow operation, officers located LSD, THC Wax, a significant quantity of marijuana and mushrooms, as well as several firearms and a firearm silencer, police said in a Facebook post.

On top of being charged with battery, Lindsay is also facing a slew of drug charges. Police said more charges could be coming.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk takes part in a press statement after a joint meeting in the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk has emphatically ruled out his seeking election as president in 2025, despite rumours that he will take a second run at the position.

"I say it this clearly: No, I will not run in the presidential election," Tusk told the country's TVP Info on Thursday evening.

According to Tusk, who until 2019 was president of the European Council before returning as Poland's prime minister late last year, he had so much to do as head of government that a few months or years would not be enough.

In 2005, Tusk ran for president for Poland's liberal-conservative Civic Coalition (PO) but lost to Lech Kaczynski of the national-conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party.

The 67-year-old Gdansk native already served as prime minister from 2007-14 and has been periodically rumoured to be mulling a presidential re-run.

Poland will elect a new head of state in summer 2025, although the exact date has not yet been set. Incumbent Andrzej Duda, who comes from PiS, will not be allowed to run again after two terms in office.

In his remarks to TVP Info, Tusk said he would be pleased to see fellow PO member and Warsaw mayor Rafa Trzaskowski pick up the gauntlet in next year's race.

Trzaskowski was narrowly defeated by Duda in the last election.
At least nine people are dead and dozens more injured after a heavy gust of wind caused a stage to collapse at a presidential campaign rally in Mexico on Wednesday evening.

The event was in support of Citizens Movement candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez in San Pedro Garza Garcia, a city in the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon. In the video of the incident which has surfaced on social media, Alvarez Maynez could be seen smiling and pumping his fist in the air as the crowd chanted for him. Then suddenly, as Alvarez Maynez looked up, a large screen began to fall towards him and pandemonium broke loose and he and others on the stage ran for cover.

Momento en que se desploma escenario donde se llevaba a cabo el cierre de Campana de la candidata a la alcaldia de San Pedro Lorenia Canavati acompanada de Jorge Alvarez Maynez, candidato a la Presidencia de Movimiento Ciudadano. Estima la Cruz Roja Mexicana 80 heridos. pic.twitter.com/RbJMBUF8xb  Mario Castillo (@mariocastillob) May 23, 2024

According the the state's governor Samuel Garcia, via Reuters, the victims were eight adults and one children, with nearly 70 others hospitalized. Garcia was heading to a hospital where three people were in surgery as of Wednesday evening, and had planned to meet with security and civil protection officials early on Thursday.

After being cleared at a local hospital, Alvarez Maynez, returned to the scene of the accident, where he told reporters: "I've never experienced something so sudden." He also announced that he was suspending campaign activities and expressed hope that authorities would conduct an investigation with transparency.

"I am fine and in communication with state authorities to follow up on what happened," he added on social media. "The only important thing right now is to care for the victims of the accident."

Alvarez Maynez is described as a "long shot candidate" who was polling in third place at the time of the incident, behind ruling party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum and opposition coalition candidate Xochitl Galvez in second-place.

Following the tragedy, Sheinbaum canceled a campaign event in Monterrey on Thursday "in solidarity" with victims and their loved ones. "My condolences and prayers go out to the families of the deceased, and my wishes for a speedy recovery to all the injured people," Galvez likewise posted to social media.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador also expressed condolences, saying that he "sends a hug to family members, friends of the victims and political supporters."
Raul Porto Sr., the founder of the beloved Portos Bakery, died at 92 on Wednesday, the company announced on Instagram Friday.

Raul Sr. was an extraordinary man who, alongside his wife Rosa, founded Portos Bakery from their home kitchen, selling cakes and pastries to friends and family. Raul Sr. would assist whenever he could, even while working at another local bakery. After several years, he was able to join Rosa full-time, dedicating himself to growing their business, the caption said in part.

The first official Portos Bakery storefront opened in 1976 in Echo Park. The company has become one of L.A.s most beloved bakery establishments, with six locations in Glendale, Burbank, Downey, Buena Park, West Covina and Northridge.

Rosa Porto passed away in 2019.

The bakery is known for selling Cuban delicacies such as potato balls, meat pies and sandwiches, along with baked goods such as the cinnamon coffee cake and strawberry shortcake loaf.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
CNNs Abby Phillip on Thursday grilled Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) on a false claim from Republicans about the FBIs 2022 classified documents search of Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate.

Phillip repeatedly asked Donalds why figures on the right  including both him and Trump  have claimed that a piece of boilerplate search warrant text, which authorized the use of deadly force in the raid, was actually evidence of some sort of assassination attempt that had been green-lit by President Joe Biden.

Trump himself has said Biden was locked & loaded ready to take me out.

Thats just not true. Why would you say something like that? Phillip asked Donalds, who attended Trumps hush money trial in New York last week in a show of support for the quadruply indicted ex-POTUS.

Donalds, who is thought to be a potential running mate for presumptive GOP nominee Trump, dodged the question.

Phillip persisted, saying: Congressman, with all due respect, the language for the search is standard operating procedure for every operation of that kind that the FBI does. They did the same thing when they searched Joe Bidens house. So how is that weaponizing it?

Donalds sidestepped again.

Congressman, Im talking about the conspiracy theory that the FBI was trying to assassinate Trump, Phillip replied. Would you acknowledge that that is not true?

Donalds dodged a third time.

Phillip said: Just, real simple question. Is it true or false that the FBI was trying to assassinate Trump?

Yet another dodge from Donalds.

Congressman, I just want to note that you are not responding to a very simple question about a conspiracy theory that you voiced, Phillip said.

Following further evasions from Donalds, Phillip said it was pretty extraordinary that when faced with really clear facts  very clear facts, its pretty much black and white  you wont acknowledge the reality of the situation.

Im trying to understand why, she said. Is it because the former president himself has raised this conspiracy that you feel like you have to support it?

Watch the exchange here:

I pressed Trump ally @RepDonaldsPress on why he and other Republicans are pushing conspiracies about the FBI's search of Mar-a-Lago by calling it an assassination attempt. pic.twitter.com/Wu2R1VrT5d  Abby D. Phillip (@abbydphillip) May 24, 2024

Related...
MARIANNA, Ark.  A series of powerful storms left a trail of damage in Marianna, Arkansas.

Workers at OReilly Auto Parts in Marianna are cleaning up after Wednesdays storm caused heavy damage while store employees took cover.

We come out, part of the roof was gone, employee Miranda Stanbery said. Ceiling tiles were gone. We have water in the building. Products are damaged. We just started cleaning up.

The storm, which hit around 1 p.m., left widespread power outages and trees down all over town. More than one tree crashed into Robert Hibblers home, leaving the wheelchair-bound man in a pile of debris.

It mostly took all the shingles off and then the rain came through on my sheetrock and then my sheetrock fell in, Hibbler said.

Farmer finds womans body in AR field; police investigating

Many here expected Wednesdays storm to cause problems, and it did, including an unusually high amount of water flooding streets, yards, and businesses.

It was flooded. People were getting stuck and it was real bad, and I was scared because I was here alone, Shamika Hansberry said.

Some residents watched helplessly as the water inched higher.

Within less than 10 or 15 minutes it was up, Bettie Lemon said. It was so high in my yard, my whole yard was like a river. A little bit longer and I would have had to have a boat.

Mariannas police chief says he believes straight-line winds are responsible for the damage. No injuries were reported.

Crews from Entergy and other utilities are working to fully restore power.

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President Biden to campaign in Philadelphia on Wednesday

President Joe Biden greets attendees after speaking at a campaign event on April 16, 2024 in Scranton. (Photo by Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images)

President Joe Biden will hold a campaign event in Philadelphia on Wednesday, the White House announced Friday. Few details were immediately available.

Frequent visits from presidential candidates were expected in Pennsylvania before the 2024 campaign began in earnest, with the states 19 electoral votes at stake, but the Biden campaign has put a particular focus on the Keystone State, opening a dozen offices across the commonwealth, in safer Democratic areas like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, but also in areas that typically vote Republican, like York and Lancaster.

Biden has campaigned in Pennsylvania regularly in 2024, including a weeklong sweep through Scranton, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia the week before the states April primary. Four of Bidens 2024 visits to Pennsylvania have been in the southeast, a densely populated region of the commonwealth where Democrats hold a significant voter registration advantage over Republicans.

A Philadelphia Inquirer/New York Times/Siena College poll released May 13 found Biden trailing Trump in five battleground states, including Pennsylvania, where 47% of voters polled chose Trump, and 44% said they would vote for Biden.

In 2020, Biden beat Trump in Pennsylvania by just over 80,000 votes.

This is a developing story that will be updated.

The post President Biden to campaign in Philadelphia on Wednesday appeared first on Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
Parents are pulling children out of private school after Sir Keir Starmer promised a tax raid on day one of a Labour government.

Headteachers have told The Telegraph that parents are already cancelling places for September amid fears Labour will be in power before the start of the school holidays.

Others are rushing to pay fees in advance, following news that the poll will be held on July 4 rather than in the autumn as previously expected.

It comes as Sir Keir Starmer doubled down on Labours commitment to apply VAT straight away if his party wins the general election.

Asked if the plan would be implemented on day one of a Labour government, Sir Keir told BBC Radio 4s Today Programme: As soon as it can be done. It is a question of the timetable in Parliament. But these steps are intended to be done straight away.

Silas Edmonds, who is the principal at Ewell Castle School in Surrey, said parents of pupils with offers to join in September have already begun to pull out because they are too worried about the cost and uncertainty. Others, the headteacher said, are scrambling to pay upfront.

Mr Edmonds said: Several year seven families and families of pupils who would have been taking places in sixth form have withdrawn because they are just too worried about this additional cost.

The principal of the 20,193-a-year school wrote to parents this week following Rishi Sunaks shock announcement to warn them that while they are hoping for the best they are preparing for the worst if Labour wins the election.

We are looking at our finances to see if there is any kind of buffer we can build in to meet parents halfway but it is going to be tough. Im really hoping they [Labour] will see sense and realise its actually going to cost the Government long term.

Mr Edmonds said a rising number of parents are rushing to pay upfront.

He said: Weve had a fees-in-advance scheme for a while now because we have been doing horizon scanning and we saw this coming down the tracks so we have had a few parents who have already taken advantage of that.

A few more who have enquired in the past week or two. I suspect there will be more next week.

Anthony Oulton, principal at Hulme Private Grammar School in Manchester, raised concerns about the number of acceptance letters which might now be revoked.

I do wonder and worry about how many parents with offers for September starts might contact us in the next week. There is just so much uncertainty about this, its really, really unhelpful.

Around a third of students at Hulme Grammar School receive bursaries and a good number are on fully paid scholarships. Last year, the school spent 750,000 to help pupils from lower income families to attend the private school.

A report by wealth manager Saltus last week found more than a quarter of parents will remove their children from private school and move them to a local state school if the VAT levy is imposed.

One parent who is considering taking her children out of private school is Loveena Tandon. The 44-year-old mother of two, who is originally from India, said she was considering all options.

Ms Tandon, whose children attend private schools in London and Surrey, has calculated a 20pc rise in fees will leave her having to find 14,000 per term.

Ms Tandon said: I am going to be having conversations with my parents, with my mother and sister in Mumbai and we are going to have serious conversations about the possibilities there [in India] and also going to be looking at possibilities in the state sector and I will also look at what I can do with my career.

A lot of parents are already inquiring about state schools. Everyone is doing whatever they can but the bottom line is a big chunk of parents cannot afford this.

Some are already going to state schools and they are already feeling the pressure and crumbling.

Ms Tandon is part of Education not Taxation, a grassroots campaign set up by angry parents in an attempt to force Labour to reverse the policy.

The groups petition calling on Labour to stop the VAT hike has surpassed 120,000 signatures and has seen a further 2,000 people sign it in the past 24 hours.

David Woodgate, the chief executive of the Independent Schools Bursars Association, which represented 1,100 private schools, criticised Labours costing of the policy. He argued the party has not taken into consideration the cost to the state if tens of thousands of private school pupils are moved to the state sector.

Labour has claimed the policy will raise 1.7bn, 1.6bn will come from charging VAT and 100m will come from scrapping business rate relief. But Mr Woodgate said the genuine real risk of an exodus of pupils into the state sector has not been factored into Labours numbers.

The figure could be well under 1bn in reality which is not very much money to fund the policies which Labour wants to fund from it, he said.

A Local Government Association spokesman warned parents of the risks of taking their children out at the last minute.

With 80pc of secondary schools now academies, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with demand. Councils have a legal duty to ensure capacity but currently have no powers to open new secondary schools or direct academies to expand.

Every child should have a fair chance of getting into their parents preferred school and councils and schools work extremely hard to try and ensure that as many pupils as possible are allocated their first preference.

This ruling needs to be amended as soon as possible to ensure as many children as possible get the places they want.

Labour was approached for comment.

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UNITED NATIONS, May 23 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Thursday stated that China will persist in playing a constructive role in preserving peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as ensuring regional tranquility.

"China has always respected the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the independent choice of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the future of their country," Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, said in his explanation of vote on the UN General Assembly draft resolution on the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.

"China will continue to work towards the development of friendly relations with all ethnic groups of Bosnia and Herzegovina and play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the country as well as tranquility in the region," he stressed.

Fu said that since its independence, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been painstakingly exploring the path in search of peace and development. "As an important country in the Balkan region, it is in the common interests of the countries in the region and the international community for Bosnia and Herzegovina to realize harmonious coexistence of all ethnic groups and for the country to maintain peace, stability, and development."

Fu pointed out that the conflict that took place in the regions of the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s was a dark page in history. There were killings of innocent civilians of all ethnic groups, and the Srebrenica tragedy is deeply deplorable.

"China has always advocated not forgetting history, learning from history, and preventing the recurrence of tragedies," said the ambassador. "We hope that all ethnic groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina would demonstrate tolerance and reconciliation, move forward in unity and solidarity, and work together to maintain peace and stability in the country, so as to promote economic and social development."

"As we approach the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, China looks forward to all ethnic groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the support of the international community, to commit themselves to jointly safeguarding the institutional framework established by the Dayton Peace Agreement, seek consensus on major policy issues related to national development and stability, and make greater progress on the path of consolidating national reconciliation and advancing nation building."

With regard to the draft resolution to be put to vote by the UN General Assembly, Fu said that "China notes that the draft resolution has sparked great controversy in Bosnia and Herzegovina."

Relevant countries of the region and member states concerned have also expressed their strong views in this regard, Fu noted. "China has repeatedly called for full communication with the key parties and member states on the draft resolution, with a view to advancing the relevant process on the basis of consensus."

"The hasty voting on the draft resolution, which is still marked by major differences, is not in line with the spirit of reconciliation or harmony within Bosnia and Herzegovina and among the countries of the region, not in line with the desire to maintain peace and stability in the Western Balkans and in Europe as a whole, and not in line with the original purpose of the establishment of the International Day to demonstrate the solidarity of member states," the envoy pointed out.

"For that reason, China will have no alternative but to vote against this draft resolution," Fu said.

The draft, sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, was adopted by a vote of 84 nations in favor, 19 against and 68 abstentions. 
Pro-Palestinian protesters set up an encampment at Wayne State University, adding to the growing list of U.S. college campuses that have seen similar protests in recent months.

Following a Thursday evening rally, protesters began pitching tents and planting signs between State Hall and the David Adamany Undergraduate Library about 7 p.m., under the close watch of campus police. Protesters say they plan to stay until they are removed by police or the university Board of Governors meets its demand to divest from Israel.

Students supporting Palestine camp out at Wayne State University in Detroit on May 24, 2024.

We are here together to perform a demonstration to demand a meeting with the Board of Governors and President Espy to discuss divestment from (the S&P 500) that includes war-manufacturing companies  who directly aid the Israeli occupation and genocide of people in Gaza, said Zaynah Jadallah, a Wayne State University alum who returned to her alma mater to join the protests.

 WSU students launch their encampment in an effort to call for the university to divest from Israel.



Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest, protestors chant. pic.twitter.com/lET6HPKvL7  Malak (@MalakSilmi) May 23, 2024

We have tried with the university before, having meetings, we even tried to have the divestment resolution that was passed by the student senate put on the agenda for the Board of Governors, but it was met with refusal and denial, so we had to pivot and show our support in a different form, she continued. "We would like some sort of dialogue and openness from the university admins and Board of Governors to listen to our demands and talk about divestment.

Surrounded by a border of crates, chairs, boxes, tables and signs, Jadallah estimates that 50 to 100 have participated in the encampment since its start Thursday night, and that the responses from passersby have been mostly positive and encouraging of conversations.

As Americans  our tax dollars pay and fund the genocide through these war-manufacturing companies, and then as students, our money and our alumni gifts go to these endowments that fund those companies, she said.

More: Arab Americans disappointed with meeting with US Secretary of State on Israel, Gaza

But since setting up the encampment, Jadallah said the only form of communication they have heard from Wayne State University officials is through a statement the university released Thursday night: "A small encampment of pro-Palestinian protesters was set up on our campus. It is an evolving situation, with public safety on site to ensure that it is peaceful, safe, and non-disruptive to our campus operations."

Jadallah said the police presence at the scene has decreased since the start of the encampment Thursday night, but officers still stand close by.

She said their intentions are peaceful; even when the protesters came to begin setting up their tents, only one or two people were using the grassy space that the encampment currently inhabits.

We are not trying to disrupt. Thats not our goal," she said. "Our main goal is to get (the Board of Governors) to talk to us willingly.

The encampment at Wayne State University comes just two days after one of the longest-running university encampments in the country at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor was broken up by police.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Pro-Palestinian protesters begin tent encampment at Wayne State
A sign is displayed at the Clackamas County Democratic party building, which is in Oregon's 5th Congressional District, May 17, 2024, in Oregon City, Ore. Ten jurisdictions have yet to weigh in on the presidential primaries even though Joe Biden and Donald Trump locked in their parties' nominations months ago. Voters Oregon, will get their chance on Tuesday, May 21. They will make symbolic decisions that provide a few more delegates to the national conventions and a gut check on where the Democratic and Republican bases stand toward their standard bearers. | Jenny Kane

Progressive candidates lost in several primary elections held on Tuesday in Oregon, losing out to more moderate candidates in Democratic primaries. In response to this political shift, one Biden administration official said, well-meaning ideas have gone too far, and we need a sensible approach.

According to Politico, the loss of a liberal Portland prosecutor to a tough-on-crime challenger led to a response from top White House officials that Democrats need to distance themselves from left-leaning positions on law-and-order issues.

Several progressive congressional candidates also lost their primary races, including the sister of Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Susheela Jayapal was running for the Democratic nomination in Oregons 3rd Congressional District, but she lost to state lawmaker Maxine Dexter.

I think the voters were sending a signal last night that they support pragmatic ... candidates who have experience, who have results, Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., chair of the center-left New Democrat Coalition, told Axios.

Progressive setbacks in Oregon

In Oregons Multnomah County, encompassing Portland, centrist district attorney candidate Nathan Vasquez defeated incumbent prosecutor Mike Schmidt, winning the nonpartisan primary with more than 50% of the vote.

According to Politico, Vasquez was supported by several police groups as his campaign focused on being tough on crime, a message that resonated with Oregon voters concerned about public safety and homelessness.

Vasquez posted on Wednesday, The voters have made it clear that they are ready to take our county in a new and safer direction.

He continued, I am committed to ending open air drug dealing and drug use while helping connect individuals to treatment, to rebuilding the broken relationships between the DAs office and the community, and to ensuring that victims are the number one priority of my office.

On the federal side, a more centrist Democratic candidate also won in Oregons 5th Congressional District, a swing district Democrats are hoping to take back from Republicans in November, as reported by The Associated Press.

White House response

The outcome of the primaries in Oregon sparked discussions about the Democratic Partys approach to crime. The results reinforced a perspective among White House officials that Democrats need to distance themselves from their left flank on law-and-order issues, per Politico.

Particularly right now, Americans dont want to feel like things are out of control, said one Biden official, who was granted anonymity to offer candid views about tensions within the party. Well-meaning ideas have gone too far, and we need a sensible approach, as reported by Politico.

According to the article, Biden has concerns that scenes of chaos at the border and crime could hurt his chances in November.
U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota, calls on the U.S. Education Department to cut ties with Missouri student loan servicer MOHELA on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, outside the U.S. Capitol. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  A group of advocates and progressive Democratic lawmakers called on the U.S. Department of Education on Wednesday to end its contract with MOHELA, a Missouri-based student loan servicer.

U.S. Reps. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, Greg Casar of Texas and U.S. Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts urged the department to cut ties with MOHELA, also known as the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri, during a press conference hosted by the Debt Collective, which advocates for canceling student debt.

Advocates and the lawmakers accused MOHELA of being a predatory loan service and failing student borrowers, citing mismanagement, administrative failures and hours-long wait times for assistance.

It is time to stop their contract, it is time to fire them, it is time to listen to the borrowers that have been speaking up about the struggles that they are facing, and it is time for us to do the right thing, Omar said. We are asking the administration to take this step forward because it is past time that we listen to the borrowers that have been suffering under the incompetence of MOHELA.

The Education Department did not respond on the record to a request for comment Wednesday.

In moves it has characterized as bolstering protections for borrowers, the department launched a new accountability initiative in November and has transitioned to new loan servicing contracts.

Nothing short of a nightmare

MOHELA is at the center of two class-action lawsuits in recent months accusing the nonprofit of a failure to timely process and render decisions for student loan borrowers enrolled in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

One of the lawsuits names MOHELA alone, while the other names both the nonprofit and the U.S. Education Department.

The student loan servicer has also taken heat from the Student Borrower Protection Center, an advocacy group, and the American Federation of Teachers, a major teachers union. In a report from February, the two entities accused the nonprofit of failing to perform basic servicing functions.

They also claimed that more than four in ten student loan borrowers MOHELA services have experienced a servicing failure since loan payments resumed in September 2023.

In March, MOHELA sent a cease and desist letter to the Student Borrower Protection Center, accusing its report of making false, misleading and sensationalized claims and insinuations regarding MOHELA and its business activities.

A spokesperson for MOHELA said in an emailed statement Wednesday that borrowers are not better off when outside groups spread false and misleading information about our work as a federal contractor for FSA. The spokesperson added that MOHELA remains committed to continuing to provide the highest quality of customer service to the borrowers that we serve.

Student loan servicers are companies contracted by the federal government to handle billing and other administrative tasks regarding federal student loans, according to Federal Student Aid.

MOHELA services nearly 8 million borrowers after winning a contract in 2022 to handle the Education Departments Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Mike Pierce, executive director of the Student Borrower Protection Center, said during Wednesdays event that at every step, MOHELA has failed student loan borrowers.

Theyve lost paperwork, theyve given people the runaround, Pierce said while standing next to an exhibit displaying what appeared to be a nine-hour hold time when trying to reach one of MOHELAs customer service representatives.

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, at Wednesdays press conference said MOHELA has a call-deflection scheme.

When it is critical for people to be on the phone with someone, they cant get on the phone with someone, Weingarten said.

Shamell Bell, a member of the Debt Collective, said her interactions with the student loan servicer have been nothing short of a nightmare.

Bell said she was in a labyrinth of just false information, false promises and failures that are not just administrative errors but also systemic obstacles that jeopardize the financial stability and mental wellness of countless borrowers like myself.

More student loan forgiveness

Meanwhile, the Biden administration said earlier Wednesday that it had approved an additional $7.7 billion in student debt relief for 160,500 borrowers. The bulk of the relief  more than $5 billion  went to nearly 67,000 borrowers partaking in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Wednesdays move brought the administrations total loan forgiveness to $167 billion for 4.75 million Americans.

The Biden-Harris Administration remains persistent about our efforts to bring student debt relief to millions more across the country, and this announcement proves it, U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement. One out of every 10 federal student loan borrowers approved for debt relief means one out of every 10 borrowers now has financial breathing room and a burden lifted.

The post Progressives push Biden administration to cut ties with Missouri student loan servicer appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Megan Red Shirt-Shaw speaks at Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois, on Jan. 17, 2023. Two University of South Dakota faculty members, Megan Red Shirt-Shaw and her husband, John Little, have long included their gender pronouns and tribal affiliations in their work email signature blocks. But both received written warnings from the university in March that doing so violated a policy adopted by the South Dakota Board of Regents in December. (Ryan Pagelow/Dominican University via AP)

A new South Dakota policy to stop the use of gender pronouns by public university faculty and staff in official correspondence is also keeping Native American employees from listing their tribal affiliations in a state with a long and violent history of conflict with tribes.

Two University of South Dakota faculty members, Megan Red Shirt-Shaw and her husband, John Little, have long included their gender pronouns and tribal affiliations in their work email signature blocks. But both received written warnings from the university in March that doing so violated a policy adopted in December by the South Dakota Board of Regents.

I was told that I had 5 days to remove my tribal affiliation and pronouns, Little said in an email to The Associated Press. I believe the exact wording was that I had 5 days to correct the behavior. If my tribal affiliation and pronouns were not removed after the 5 days, then administrators would meet and make a decision whether I would be suspended (with or without pay) and/or immediately terminated.

The policy is billed by the board as a simple branding and communications policy. It came only months after Republican Gov. Kristi Noem sent a letter to the regents that railed against liberal ideologies on college campuses and called for the board to ban drag shows on campus and remove all references to preferred pronouns in school materials," among other things.

All nine voting members of the board were appointed by Noem, whose remarks in March accusing tribal leaders of benefitting from illegal drug cartels and not properly caring for children has prompted most South Dakota tribes to ban her from their land.

South Dakota's change comes in the midst of a conservative quest to limit diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives gaining momentum in state capitals and college governing boards around the country, with about one-third of the states taking some sort of action against it.

Policies targeting gender pronoun use have focused mainly on K-12 students, although some small religious colleges have also restricted pronoun use. Houghton University in western New York fired two dorm directors last year after they refused to remove gender pronouns from their work email signatures.

But some fear the South Dakota policy could signify a creep of such efforts into public colleges and universities.

Quite frankly, this is the first I've heard of a state university choosing to use branding standards to eliminate what obviously had become a practice of including pronouns and tribal affiliations to emails, said Paulette Grandberry Russell, president of the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education. But I'm not surprised, given the current climate we're in.

Grandberry Russell referred to the conservative push limiting transgender rights and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts as a testing ground to see if discriminatory laws will be tolerated.

It is a steady progression, she said. This comes in the form of communications and branding standards. Is that going to be the next frontier in sanitizing the realities of our differences? "

The college faculty advocacy group American Association of University Professors is not aware of any other faculty at a public university in the U.S. being required to drop their preferred pronouns in official correspondence, spokesman Kelly Benjamin said.

Anecdotally I'll say, because I live in Florida and have seen what's happened with all the anti-wokeness and targeting of education here, I know this is part and parcel to a longer-term agenda, Benjamin said.

A spokeswoman for the University of South Dakota declined to answer questions about whether its administrators or the University Faculty Senate had been consulted before regents adopted the policy, referring questions to the Board of Regents.

Shuree Mortenson, a spokeswoman for the regents, said all six universities under the regents board umbrella were given the opportunity to review the policy, but ultimately, the Board of Regents made this decision. She declined to say whether other faculty at any of the five other schools had received warnings about not using gender pronouns, tribal affiliation or other identifiers, but defended the new policy as providing consistency to safeguard the brand."

Mortenson did not answer questions about whether the inclusion of tribal affiliation in official public university signature blocks had been considered by the regents before adopting it or whether tribal leaders in the state had been consulted.

When the policy was announced to faculty in January, Little said he and Red Shirt-Shaw asked schools administrators how the new policy would impact the inclusion of tribal affiliations.

It was clear that they had not considered that this would impact Native employees, Little said.

The U.S. had long tried to eradicate Native American communities and cultures through warfare, assimilation and other means before recognizing tribes' inherent right to govern themselves. Indigenous children, for example, were taken from their communities and forced into Native American boarding schools, which systematically abused students.

Red Shirt-Shaw said in social media posts that being told she could not list her tribal affiliation as part of her signature felt like further erasure of Native people in South Dakota.

The ability to share my tribal affiliation as well as gender pronouns signals that I am a person who values the lived experiences of others, she said.

Both she and Little have begun listing their tribal affiliation and pronouns in the body of their emails, which the university currently is allowing.

The American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota said it has heard from faculty and students at the University of South Dakota who are concerned about the new policy. The ACLU is considering next steps to address it.

Maybe their intent was to suppress pronoun usage in email signatures, but as is often the case with any limitation or suppression of free speech, there's always unintended consequences, said Samantha Chapman, an advocacy manager for the ACLU South Dakota. There is also a component here of double erasure. There are plenty of queer Indigenous folks in South Dakota. ___

Associated Press journalist Felicia Fonseca in Flagstaff, Arizona, contributed to this report.
Military canines may be a service members best friend, but their current retirement plans arent fit for a dog, according to a pair of House lawmakers.

On Friday, Rep. John James, R-Mich., and Susan Wild, D-Pa., introduced legislation to boost financial coverage of veterinarian costs for retired federal working dogs  including military mutts  to ensure those costs dont become a burden to their former handlers or new owners.

James, who served with the Army in Iraq, said the bill  named the Protecting Americas Working Dogs Act, or PAW Act  is designed to honor both the service of the animals and the generosity of the individuals who care for them after their service is complete.

The dogs and their handlers risk their own lives to keep Americans out of harms way, he said. Unfortunately, current regulations result in the handlers, who are often veterans or law enforcement officers themselves, becoming solely responsible for the medical costs of the retired K-9.

Paws with a cause: Puppies train to help veterans manage mental health

The legislation would mandate the Department of Justice establish a new pilot program to provide up to $575,000 in grants to non-profit groups providing financial assistance to former federal working dogs.

The grant program we are proposing in this bill will help our canine heroes and their owners retire with peace of mind after a lifetime of service, Wild said in a statement.

Groups would have to show they are working with eligible families to cover medical costs or related health care expenses. The program would run for at least four years.

The Defense Department currently uses about 1,600 working dogs in a host of military operations across the globe. As they age, those dogs are either transferred to other law enforcement agencies or offered for adoption to military handlers or other outside families.

House staffers have not said how many groups might be eligible for the program or how much the total grant effort would cost in taxpayer dollars. No timeline has been set for consideration of the measure in the chamber.
View of the "Pony" pub in Kampen. A video shared online of young Germans chanting racist anti-immigrant slogans outside a pub on the North Sea island of Sylt has sparked outrage in the country. Georg Wendt/dpa

A video shared online of young Germans chanting racist anti-immigrant slogans outside a pub on the North Sea island of Sylt has sparked outrage in the country.

The group chanted "Foreigners out!" and "Germany for Germans" as the hit party song "L'Amour Toujours" by Gigi D'Agostino played at a pub in the resort town of Kampen, a destination popular with wealthy German holidaymakers.

In the recording, which is only a few seconds long and has been going viral on social media since Thursday, young men and women shout the racist slogans while laughing. One man appears to indicate a Hitler moustache with his fingers on his upper lip.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz was among those who pointedly condemned the incident: "Quite clearly, such slogans are disgusting, they are unacceptable."

"There must be no confusion about this. And that's why it's right that all of our activities are aimed at precisely preventing this from being a thing that spreads," Scholz said.

Police have launched a criminal investigation into the incident on suspicion of incitement to hatred and the possible use of outlawed extremist symbols or slogans.

"The video shows at least some of the people pictured singing right-wing extremist lyrics ('Germany for the Germans, foreigners out!'). There is also a suspicion that one person is showing the so-called Hitler salute," police said in a statement on Friday.

The use of Nazi slogans or symbols, as well as other types of hate speech, is illegal under German law.

It is not the first incident of this kind involving the song in Germany, a 20-year-old Italian pop hit that has apparently been adopted by German far-right extremists.

Authorities in several German states are investigating similar incidents of racist chanting to the song.

That the latest incident occurred on Sylt, a chic and exclusive holiday destination long popular with wealthy German elites, raised particular ire.

The ritzy setting and the champagne-sipping crowd in light-coloured blouses and sunglasses belting out the racist chants defy the typical stereotypes many Germans have of far-right extremists.

Long-time Green Party politician Jurgen Trittin derided "Prosecco Nazis" in a post on X, while the co-leader of the Green Youth, Svenja Appuhn, denounced "fascist snobs."

The operators of the pub, Pony, distanced themselves from the incident in a post to Instagram and said they were "deeply shocked" by the video.

"We distance ourselves from any kind of racism and discrimination," they wrote in a post on Instagram. "If we had known about the incident, we would of course have expelled the guests in question. There is no place for racism!!!"

Every guest, regardless of ethnicity, is welcome and the people recorded in the video will be banned from the premises, they said.

In another post, the operators wrote that they had now received the names of "these Nazis" and would "report this disgusting behaviour and use all criminal law options!!!"

The pub's owner, Tim Becker, told dpa that all five people shown in the video had been identified, and that they had passed along their names and additional evidence such as security camera footage to authorities.

Becker said he was horrified by the incident and would ban the song from being played there in the future. He said he would also pursue civil claims against those involved, and that they had been banned from his pub and wouldn't be welcome elsewhere on the island.

"They don't need to show their faces on Sylt any more. We have lots of friendly restaurateurs," Becker said.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the incident should be an embarrassment for the entire country.

"Anyone who shouts Nazi slogans such as 'Germany for the Germans - foreigners out' is a disgrace to Germany," Faeser told the Funke newspaper group on Friday.

Faeser said the incident raises the question of what kind of hate-filled climate encourages such people to make such abysmally racist statements in public.

"There must be no creeping normalization here," Faeser said.

Racists must face loud opposition everywhere - among friends, at work, in sport - in addition to facing possible criminal penalties, Faeser said.

The mayors of the towns on Sylt denounced the chants in a joint statement on Friday: "We have zero tolerance for these chants. This behaviour is repulsive and completely unacceptable to us. We will not tolerate it."

A view of the "Pony" pub in Kampen. A video shared online of young Germans chanting racist anti-immigrant slogans outside a pub on the North Sea island of Sylt has sparked outrage in the country. Georg Wendt/dpa

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (not pictured), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa
PSP: Motorcyclist identified, charged after going 150 MPH during chase in Adams County

ADAMS COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Pennsylvania State Police have identified and charged a motorcyclist who led them on a high speed chase in Adams County in April.

Security footage from Sheetz and tipsters helped Troopers identify Jeremy Perez, 33, of Gettysburg, as the motorcyclist, State Police at Gettysburg wrote in a criminal complaint.

State Police spotted two motorcyclists traveling on Route 15 going at least 100 mph in a 65 mph posted zone and tried to pull them over on April 14. The one motorcyclist, pulled over, but Perez, who was riding a 2018 white Yamaha R6, took off and Troopers followed.

During the chase, State Police say Perez reached speeds going over 150 mph and he was using the road shoulder to pass vehicles and was swerving erratically. Eventually, Troopers stopped pursuing due to safety concerns.

The motorcyclist who State Police pulled over said they just left the Sheetz along Camp Letterman Drive, which is where State Police then got security footage from and on it saw Perez buy a White Claw then get on his bike head off from the gas station. Perez was seen flipping his helmet visor up on one camera angle which Troopers said showed it was him.

Carlisle Police investigating after school playground equipment set on fire

According to the criminal complaint, anonymous tips came through which were able to help State Police identify the fleeing motorcyclist as Perez. State Police say they learned Perez hid the bike because police were looking for him.

It was noted in the criminal complaint Perez has an extensive criminal history out of Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania, plus he has warrants for his arrest in Baltimore.

Perez faces felony charges of fleeing or attempting to elude officer and flight to avoid apprehension/trial/punishment along with summary charges of traffic violations.

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Perez is out of Adams County Prison after he posted his bail, which was set at $10,000,on May 20. A preliminary hearing s scheduled for June 5.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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North Carolinas highest court cleared the way for the release of law enforcement footage from a 2020 march in Alamance County where authorities used arrests and pepper spray to break up a crowd of hundreds that included young children.

In a 5-2 ruling Thursday that split the North Carolina Supreme Courts Republican bloc, the majority concluded that appellate judges were partly wrong to block the release of video from the march sought by a coalition of media organizations that included The News & Observer. The decision now goes back to a superior court judge, who in 2021 ordered both the Graham Police Department and Alamance County Sheriffs Office to turn over the footage.

The use of pepper spray in Graham that day  the last one of early voting in the 2020 election  drew international attention and prompted allegations of voter intimidation, The N&O reported. Two lawsuits filed shortly after the incident made those claims directly.

Leaders with the police and sheriffs offices have maintained their use of force during the march and rally was appropriate.

But in this case and countless others nationally, media organizations have sought body-worn and dashboard-camera video in an effort to reveal more about the interactions between the police and the public.

The state Supreme Courts ruling will likely add some clarity to the process the public must follow to obtain law enforcement recordings, which for almost a decade have been subject to an uncommon carve-out in North Carolina law.

Such video is not public record, and law enforcement agencies cant release it on their own.

But under a measure passed by the legislature in 2016, news organizations have repeatedly obtained law enforcement recordings through a special petition that sets a very specific legal procedure in motion. It leaves the question of what to release  and what to keep confidential  up to a judge.

The appeals court decision in the Alamance County case, however, cast doubts on that process in December 2022.

The Republican majority of appellate judges ruled that release of video was contingent upon certain eligibility requirements that the lower court failed to consider. If that finding stood, it would likely have limited the ability of the general public  and media organizations  to fight for the release of law enforcement footage.

But in Thursdays decision, the states high court overturned that ruling, finding that state law doesnt impose strict eligibility requirements on the publics ability to seek body and dash cam video. The majority did agree with the appeals court, however, on the ability of a judge to place conditions or restrictions on what to release publicly.

Justices also rejected an argument from the Graham Police Department that those seeking law enforcement video should be required to file an expensive civil lawsuit, rather than filling out a $200 petition to the court.

To me, the upshot is that it will be less cumbersome to pursue release of these things, Mike Tadych, the attorney representing media organizations, said of the ruling Thursday.

Demonstrators participating in the march to the polls in Graham chant the names of people killed by police as they march towards the Alamance County Historic Courthouse on Oct. 31, 2020.

Police video yields insight on conduct

The case will now return to Superior Court Judge Andrew Hanford, who can decide whether to enforce his original release order or modify it given the findings of the high court.

Tadych said he expects another hearing on the matter in about a month.

What the judge will actually release, he said, will likely be an easy call because so much of the footage was recorded in public and outdoors during the I Am Change march on Oct. 31, 2020.

Coming in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, the Black man killed by Minneapolis police earlier that summer, the march of about 200 people culminated in a rally near the old Alamance County courthouse in Graham.

The N&O reported that shortly after a moment of silence for Floyd, police and sheriffs deputies told marchers to clear the road before they used pepper spray. Law enforcement began dismantling the rallys sound system before scheduled speakers finished, and officers and deputies told the gathering to disperse, using more pepper spray on the crowd.

Children as young as 3 and 5 were caught in the cloud, The N&O reported, prompting several to vomit. More than a dozen people, including a local reporter and a church pastor who organized the event, were arrested at the scene.

The media organizations petitioned for the release of video captured by body-worn cameras and other devices operated by the Graham Police Department and the Alamance County Sheriffs Office during the march. But while the effort to obtain the video was stalled by an appeal from Graham police, N&O journalists were able to review some of the footage in early 2021.

Alamance County sheriffs deputies in riot gear prepare to arrest demonstrators after declaring an unlawful assembly during the march to the polls rally on Oct. 31, 2020.

After reviewing video released through related court cases against protesters, The N&O reported that Graham officers joked about using the pepper fog on the crowd.

I knew youd spray first, I knew it, one officer tells another. I love it. I love it.

In another clip, The N&O reported, an officer tells a colleague, OK, so eight minutes from now, were going to start clearing these mother****ers.

One day after the excerpts were published, The N&O reported, Grahams police chief acknowledged officers made unprofessional comments and asked for grace from the community as they dealt with long hours, challenges from the pandemic and demonstrators who attempted to incite them to react negatively.

Although we always strive for perfection, police officers are also people and they are not perfect. Police officers are like members of any profession and sometimes they make mistakes or fall short of expectations, Graham Police Chief Mary K. Cole wrote.

Neither city officials nor the Graham Police Department responded to a request for comment by Thursday afternoon.
For Tiffany Combs, public schools did more than just teach her to read and write.

I was the student that came to school for my basic needs to be met, she said Thursday in Hazards East Perry Elementary School library. There were times when my Christmas presents would come from the school, (when) school administrators would make sure that I had extra food to take home with me, or my teachers would make sure I had clean clothes.

Now 35 and a college graduate, Combs is an instructional coach in the Perry County School District. On Thursday, she stood with other Perry County educators and administrators to launch the Protect Our Schools KY campaign to oppose a Republican-backed school choice amendment on the November ballot.

Public school educators are already asked to do more with less every year, Combs said. Vouchers will make that problem even worse.

Tiffany Combs, an instructional coach in the Perry County School District, spoke out in opposition of a GOP-backed school choice amendment that will be on the November ballot. She and other educators on Thursday said such a measure will deprive public schools of badly-needed resources.

The question, the product of this years House Bill 2, will ask voters whether they want to change the Kentucky Constitution in a way that would allow for public dollars to go to charter, religious and other private schools.

Voters will answer yes or no to the following question:

To give parents choices in educational opportunities for their children, are you in favor of enabling the General Assembly to provide financial support for the education costs of students in kindergarten through 12th grade who are outside the system of common (public) schools by amending the Constitution of Kentucky as stated below?

It then says the legislature could exercise this authority, despite seven other sections of the state constitution, which are listed by section number only.

While bill sponsors have presented the measure as a potential means of restoring or expanding parental choice over their childrens education, educators in Perry County painted a different picture.

To be clear, it would allow for public money to be funneled to unaccountable, private schools by way of vouchers, Perry County Superintendent Kent Campbell said. It paves the way for our state to begin writing blank checks to private schools using dollars that should go to public schools and their students.

The stakes are high. ... We arent going to let this happen.

Jody Maggard, chief financial officer for the Perry County Board of Education and pastor at Willow Fern Baptist Church, said vouchers are cleverly crafted promises that will spur a radical disinvestment of public schools.

Maggard, whose wife teaches at East Perry Elementary, said passing the amendment will only exacerbate the teacher shortage and resource strain many districts are experiencing.

The Kentucky Constitution is the last line of defense that is protecting us from unaccountable and unequitable voucher schemes that would plague and devastate our public schools, he said.

In rural parts of Kentucky like Perry County, where there are few alternative education options outside the public education system, divesting in that system would have ripple effects.

The schools  not just the buildings themselves, but faculty and staff  act as community pillars, Maggard and others said, not just venues for classroom education.

After the 2022 floods across Eastern Kentucky, which impacted 9,000 families in the region, Maggard said, schools opened as distribution centers.

East Perry handed out food, clothing and cleaning supplies. Three miles away, West Perry Elementary personnel opened the schools gymnasium, giving hundreds of people a temporary place to sleep.

Combs volunteered to cover an overnight shift in the gymnasium, keeping watch over families, and in many cases, students who had just lost everything.

Public schools are more than just an education for most students, she said. Its a lifeline, just like it was for me.
People take part in a rally calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, in Tel Aviv, Israel, May 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Junqing)

JERUSALEM, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli war cabinet on Wednesday night instructed the Israeli negotiation team to renew talks for the release of the Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli state-owned Kan TV news reported.

The approval for the resumption of talks was given following a four-hour night discussion, during which the cabinet formulated updated guidelines for the team.

Kan quoted a source involved in the discussion as saying, "This is not all that the negotiating team asked for, but at least we can move forward."

People take part in a demonstration in demand for an immediate hostage release deal and a general election outside the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, in Jerusalem, on May 20, 2024. (Photo by Jamal Awad/Xinhua)

Cabinet ministers supported a new deal proposal formulated by Nitzan Alon, who is responsible for the hostages' issue on behalf of the Israeli army, according to Kan.

The discussion followed the release on Wednesday evening of graphic footage showing the kidnapping by Hamas militants of five female Israeli observation soldiers from Israel's Nahal Oz military base near the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, 2023.

The video was published at the initiative of the hostages' families to increase the pressure on the Israeli decision-makers to move forward with the deal with Hamas.

After the video was released, protests erupted in Tel Aviv and outside the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem, where the cabinet was meeting.
Pueblo-born FBI agent killed in line of duty to be honored with dedication of Laura's Park

A Pueblo native and FBI agent who was killed in the line of duty while serving a search warrant in a crimes against children investigation in 2021 is being honored by her hometown.

Laura Schwartzenberger, a born-and-raised Puebloan who graduated from Pueblo South High School in 1996, was one of two FBI agents killed in a shootout in Sunrise, Florida, on Feb. 2, 2021.

In her honor, Pueblo Parks and Recreation is hosting a park dedication Saturday for Lauras Park, formerly Starlite Park, located at Surfwood Lane and Starlite Drive. The dedication is scheduled to begin at noon and end at 2 p.m.

Laura Schwartzenberger

The former Starlite Park was renamed in Schwartzenbergers honor because it was the park in which she grew up playing as a young child, according to a news release from the city of Pueblo.

Lauras Park was recently updated in February with new playground equipment and new sidewalk pathways.

Pueblo Parks and Recreation is honored to have the opportunity to rename and dedicate Lauras Park in Laura Schwartzenbergers memory, Pueblo Parks and Recreation Director Steven Meier said in the release.

Laura was a well-loved member of our community and her service to our country as an FBI agent will always be remembered in the neighborhood park she grew up playing in as a child. Now this space can continue wonderful memories for other children and community members of Pueblo in Lauras honor.

Laura Schwartzenberger, second from the right, carving pumpkins at John Neumann School on Oct. 30, 1986, in Pueblo.

Schwartzenbergers background in Pueblo and time with the FBI

Schwartzenberger attended St. John Neumann Catholic School prior to attending Pueblo South, where she was a state qualifier for the diving team. She married fellow Puebloan Jason Baca and was the mother of two young sons, Gavin and Damon.

Schwartzenberger began her career with the FBI in 2005 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she was the first and only woman to serve on the New Mexico SWAT team. In 2021 she was transferred to Miami, Florida, where she worked on the Cargo Theft Task Force and put her diving skills to good use as part of the underwater search and recovery team, according to the citys release.

Later in Schwartzenbergers career, she was transferred to the Violent Crimes and Fugitive Task Force, where she felt she found her calling in the Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force. She was the first female to be named as part of the FBI SWAT Team and was among the first responders following the horrific Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting, also known as the Parkland shooting, city officials stated in the release. "Schwartzenberger received the accolade of Law Enforcement Officer for Federal Agent in 2016 and the Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer in 2016 and 2019."

At a memorial service for Schwartzenberger following her death, FBI Director Christopher Wray said it was in Miami with the FBI's Violent Crimes Against Children Squad that the Pueblo native "found her true calling  keeping kids safe."

"Laura chose to be part of a team that spends their days in darkness, confronting the very worst parts of humanity. Its a job with high stress, high emotional toll, and high burnout. But Laura never stopped," Wray said.

"She talked to anybody and everybody about protecting children from predators online. She gave presentations on sextortion and internet safety in middle school auditoriums, neighborhood backyards  even a living room packed with a girls softball team," Wray said.

Jessica Kone, a Miami-based lawyer with Bryn and Associates P.A., told the Chieftain in 2021 that she remembered her friend as a passionate defender of children.

"She was a hero to me  she was so strong, but so kind," Kone said. "She helped directly rescue and indirectly rescue so many kids, she saved so many kids just by putting bad people away."

'Exemplified heroism': How Schwartzenberger was killed

Schwartzenberger was 43 years old when she and fellow FBI agent Daniel Alfin were killed while serving a warrant in a crimes against children investigation.

As law enforcement attempted to serve the warrant just after 6 a.m. that day, the suspect, later identified by the FBI as 55-year-old David Lee Huber, reportedly barricaded himself inside the residence and engaged in a shootout with police. In addition to the two agents killed, three other FBI agents were wounded.

Huber reportedly died during the incident from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Every day, FBI special agents put themselves in harms way to keep the American people safe, Wray said following the shooting. Special Agent Alfin and Special Agent Schwartzenberger exemplified heroism today in defense of their country.

"The FBI will always honor their ultimate sacrifice and will be forever grateful for their bravery," Wray said.

In the city's news release, FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek said Schwarzenberger and her family, "will always hold a special place in the hearts of all FBI employees, especially those of us in Denver, Miami and Albuquerque."

Laura's Park in her hometown is a fitting tribute to an FBI agent who had a passion for helping children, and who knew what it meant to treasure time with family," Michalek said.

Saturdays dedication of Lauras Park is open to the public and will consist of a presentation of colors by a joint honor guard, a proclamation read by Pueblo City Council President Mark Aliff, an introduction of Schwarzenberger's family, an FBI presentation, a blessing and a ribbon-cutting.

More community news: Historic Arkansas Riverwalk set to break ground on channel extension, boathouse projects

Chieftain editor Zach Hillstrom can be reached at zhillstrom@gannett.com or on X at @ZachHillstrom. Support local news, subscribe to the Pueblo Chieftain at subscribe.chieftain.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo to honor slain FBI agent Schwartzenberger with park dedication
Pueblo City Council violated Colorado open meeting law on May 13 when it inadequately announced a closed-door discussion with the citys lawyer. Thats according to Steve Zansberg, a Colorado attorney with expertise in the First Amendment and Colorado Sunshine Law.

Councilors filed into a private room shortly before 7 p.m. amid spirited discussions about banning syringe exchange programs in Pueblo. The growing crowd in council chambers waited over half an hour for the seven officials to re-emerge.

The work session agenda and Council President Mark Aliffs announcement stated that council would seek legal advice on specific legal questions in an executive session but did not specify the topic.

Thats a clear violation of Colorado open meetings statute and case law, which require that local public bodies disclose what theyre going to talk about in executive sessions, Zansberg said. Because councilors didnt adequately specify what they were going to talk about behind closed doors, any recordings or records from the meeting should be considered public documents.

Pueblo City Councilors conduct an executive session at Pueblo City Hall on Thursday, April 13, 2023.

What did city council talk about in the closed meeting?

Colorado law provides some carve-outs for public bodies to have limited discussions behind closed doors, but there are several parameters that have to be met, including specifying the topic in as much detail as possible.

City spokesperson Haley Sue Robinson initially declined to share the topic of the executive session a few days before the meeting. Robinson told the Chieftain in a May 10 text message that the questions are attorney-client privilege so Im unable to disclose them to you.

But after the Chieftain requested an interview with the city attorney about the executive session Tuesday, Robinson disclosed in an email that council had talked about needle exchange programs behind closed doors. She said that City Attorney Carla Sikes could answer follow-up questions via email.

However, Robinson added that councils discussion is attorney-client privileged and that Sikes cannot discuss it with you.

Another executive session that council went into on March 11 also appears to have violated Colorado open meetings law, as they were slated to receive legal advice on specific legal questions without specifying what those questions were.

Sikes disclosed in an email that council "receive(d) legal advice relating to the hiring of outside counsel" at the March 11 meeting, but did not specify why.

Sikes acknowledged in an email that the statutory language used to announce the executive sessions was "insufficient."

"We seek to be transparent as the City of Pueblo. No material was provided or reviewed during either executive session. There are no minutes to provide of either meeting," Sikes wrote, adding that the Chieftain could submit an open records request for the session recordings and the city will respond as required.

She did not address several of the Chieftain's emailed questions, including why the topic for the executive session was not initially disclosed to the public, why the city is now choosing to share the topic and who was responsible for the omission of the topic on the agenda.

City council's executive session discussions were not recorded

Another attorney in the city's legal department returned the Chieftain's open records request within hours of submitting it, but the recordings only capture snippets of council's discussion.

Most closed-door meetings are recorded, but the law provides an exception for recording "privileged attorney-client communication" when the government attorney recommends it.

"It is my opinion that part or all of the discussion of the matter announced in the motion to go into executive session constitutes a privileged attorney client communication, and therefore I am recommending that no record be kept of that part of the discussion which constitutes privileged attorney-client communication," Deputy City Attorney Harley Gifford stated on the partial recording provided from the May 13 closed-door meeting.

The official recording was turned off for 29 minutes for the discussion on needle exchanges with all seven councilors, Mayor Heather Graham, her Chief of Staff Brian McCain, Gifford and Sikes in the room.

A similar procedure was followed at the March 11 executive session: the official recording was also turned off during 22 minutes of discussion.

Council voted 5-2 to ban needle exchanges in Pueblo following hours of public testimony, mostly from people defending the programs.

A large group of citizens attend a Pueblo City Council meeting discussing a proposed ban on needle exchange programs on Monday, May 13, 2024.

This is an open and shut case: How council violated the law

Public entities in Colorado are required by law to do most of their business in the open. However, there are narrow exceptions for city councils, county commissions, school boards and other groups of elected officials to discuss some topics in executive sessions  as long as several parameters are met.

Officials need to cite specific Colorado statute to justify closing their meeting to the public and include "identification of the particular matter to be discussed in as much detail as possible without compromising the purpose for which the executive session is authorized, the law states.

Steve Zansberg

Public bodies also need to vote affirmatively with at least two-thirds in favor to enter executive sessions and are not allowed to take any formal action or adopt any proposed policies.

There's got to be some inkling given to the public  some topic about what they're going to be discussing behind closed doors so that the public has some idea of why they need to shut the door on them, said Jeff Roberts, the executive director of the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition, speaking generally about open records law.

What they're going to be talking about, they don't have to go into much detail about that. But they have to say more than just, We're going into executive session to get legal advice, Roberts said.

The Colorado Court of Appeals ruled in 2020 that the town of Basalt violated the state's open meetings law when they failed to disclose topics discussed in secret in the Guy vs. Whitsitt case.

Zansberg has successfully litigated many sunshine lawsuits, including as a member of the plaintiffs legal team in Guy vs. Whitsitt. He is also the president of the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition.

After reviewing the agenda and recording for Pueblo City Councils meeting on May 13, Zansberg told the Chieftain that the announcement for the executive session in Pueblo mirrors what happened in Basalt  which the Court of Appeals held was inadequate as a matter of law.

This is an open-and-shut case, Zansberg said.

What attorney-client privilege means

The city has cited attorney-client privilege multiple times in communications with the Chieftain as the reason for keeping details about councils May 13 executive session under wraps.

Attorney-client privilege is usually sacrosanct  on par with the confidential relationships between doctors and patients, Zansberg said. But disclosing the general subject matter of the communications does not violate attorney-client privilege.

There's some rare exceptions, but by and large, the privilege attaches only to actual communications themselves: what is exchanged, what questions are asked of the attorneys (and) what answers are given by the attorneys, Zansberg said.

Since the announcement was inadequate as a matter of law, any records of the meeting should be open to the public.

If there's any record of that executive session  or, closed meeting, because it's not an executive session  it's a public record, Zansberg said.

All executive sessions should be recorded, except there is a carve-out in the law for privileged attorney-client communications, according to the CFOIC sunshine law guide.

Colorados open government laws have been around since a successful 1972 citizen initiative, per an article that Roberts wrote on the CFOIC website last year. The Colorado Legislature strengthened the law in 2001 by requiring state and local public bodies to announce topics of executive sessions in as much detail as possible  which the state court of appeals upheld in 2020 in the case involving the Basalt town council.

Council has held at least six other executive sessions in recent months

Under Sikes leadership as city attorney, which started in an interim role on the first day of Grahams term and was made official in March, council has gone into at least six executive sessions.

City council most recently entered executive session at its May 20 work session and disclosed the topics in the agenda and an announcement prior to the closed-door meeting. Councilors discussed a pending real estate transaction, as well as legal advice on a replacement for Councilor Charles Chuck Hernandez, who resigned from council Saturday to spend more time with family.

Three other recent executive sessions on Feb. 26, March 4 and April 1 pertained to real estate.

Sikes is the fourth person to lead the citys legal office since April 2023.

Anna Lynn Winfrey covers politics for the Pueblo Chieftain. She can be reached at awinfrey@gannett.com. Please support local news at subscribe.chieftain.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Expert says Pueblo City Council violated Colorado open meetings law
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, receives Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Palace of Independence in Minsk. -/Kremlin/dpa

On his second foreign trip since starting a fifth term in office, Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited his Belarusian counterpart and close ally Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk.

The two authoritarian rulers discussed security issues in the Belarus capital Minsk on Thursday evening, state media in both countries reported.

A further meeting on Friday focussed on economic cooperation between the neighbours.

Putin, 71, included exercises of his army with tactical nuclear weapons among the issues covered, and said Belarusian soldiers would also take part in a second phase of manoeuvres.

Russia has stationed tactical nuclear warheads with delivery systems in Belarus in an apparent move to deter Western countries from providing greater military support to Ukraine.

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with its forces also attacking from Belarus with Lukashenko's support.

According to the Belarusian agency BELTA, 69-year-old Lukashenko said Minsk and Moscow were adhering to their course of deeper integration.

Lukashenko has become increasingly dependent on Putin since it was only with Russian help that he held onto power following falsifications in the 2020 presidential election and mass protests.

Putin began his fifth term of office at the beginning of May and visited China on his first trip abroad. After Belarus, he is expected to visit the Central Asian republic of Uzbekistan on Sunday and Monday.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, receives Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Palace of Independence in Minsk. -/Kremlin/dpa

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, hold a joint statement following their meeting at the Palace of Independence in Minsk. -/Kremlin/dpa

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko attends a joint statement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, at the Palace of Independence in Minsk. -/Kremlin/dpa
Putin looking for ceasefire to cement gains in Ukraine, Reuters reports citing sources

Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a ceasefire that recognizes the current front lines on the battlefield but will fight on if Ukraine and its allies do not agree, Reuters reported on May 24, citing undisclosed Russian sources.

"Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war," a senior Russian source who has worked with him told the news outlet on condition of anonymity.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.

Except for unsuccessful talks during the early spring of 2022, there have been no direct peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

Kyiv has said categorically that a full Russian withdrawal is necessary for any talks to go ahead, a condition that makes up one of the points in Ukraine's 10-point peace formula, first outlined by President Volodymyr Zelensky in the fall of 2022.

Reuters spoke to five Russian sources, three of whom said Putin had expressed frustration to advisors at what he views as Western meddling in attempts to bring Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table.

The sources also said Putin knows that any major battlefield successes would require a new wave of mobilization in Russia, something he hopes to avoid, fearing domestic unrest.

When asked about the reports, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that Russia was open to dialogue and did not want "eternal war."

Ukrainian officials recently said the country "clearly understands" that Russia's full-scale war will end with negotiations, but a ceasefire that recognizes Russia's claims to the territory currently under its control is unlikely to be agreed upon by Kyiv.

Instead, Ukraine continues to push its peace plan, and a global summit will be held in Switzerland next month that will be centered around Zelensky's peace formula.

"This is a real diplomatic track that has every chance of contributing to a just peace," National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Lytvynenko said on May 20.

"But we do not need a two-year truce; we need a sustainable peace for decades, which would enable Ukraine's development. And this is a matter of security guarantees."

Similar reports claiming that Putin is ready for peace talks emerged earlier. Bloomberg wrote in January that, according to sources close to the Kremlin, the Russian leader was sending signals to the West indicating a willingness to compromise on Ukraine joining NATO in exchange for keeping Ukrainian territories.

Putin has made made no indication of such a concession in public.

Read also: Russias latest offensive into Kharkiv Oblast is stretching Ukrainian defenses

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Two S300 anti-aircraft missiles hit the premises of a printing plant in the south of Kharkiv. Five people were killed and a dozen injured. Nicolas Cleuet/Le Pictorium via ZUMA Press/dpa

Over two years after the start of his war on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his willingness to negotiate, but noted Russia will not return the occupied territories it has annexed.

"There is again talk of the need to return to negotiations," Putin said during a visit to Belarus on Friday, the Russian news agency Interfax reported.

"Let's return to them, but not on the basis of what one side wants, ... [rather] on the basis of today's realities that have developed on the ground," Putin added.

Russia has been waging open war against Ukraine since February 2022 and currently occupies around a fifth of the neighbouring country.

Ukraine repeatedly emphasizes that the withdrawal of Russian troops from its territory is a condition for lasting peace.

During his visit to Belarus, Putin also said that Volodymyr Zelensky was no longer the legitimate president of Ukraine. He said: "Of course we are aware that the legitimacy of the current head of state has lapsed."

Zelensky's five-year term in office would have expired last Monday, but due to the Russian invasion, martial law has been in force in Ukraine for more than two years - and therefore, according to the Ukrainian constitution, Zelensky will remain in office until new elections can be held.

During a visit to Kiev a few days ago, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also underscored that Zelensky is still legally in office. She defended the Ukrainian president against what she called the "perfidious game" of Russian propaganda.

Meanwhile the Defence Ministry in Berlin said Germany has delivered another IRIS-T air defence system unit to Ukraine.

The IRIS-T unit arrived in Ukraine on Friday, the ministry posted on the social media platform X.

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius called the combined unit of IRIS-T SLM and IRIS-T SLS "a highly modern and tried-and-tested medium and short-range air defence system manufactured directly by German industry."

Germany has already delivered several IRIS-T and Patriot air defence systems to Kiev.

In Washington, the US State Department announced that the United States is providing Ukraine with further military aid.

A new package worth $275 million includes ammunition for the HIMARS multiple rocket launchers and 155 and 105-millimetre calibre artillery ammunition, the State Department said in a statement on Friday.

This is the fifth tranche authorized by US President Joe Biden since the US Congress released new funds totalling some $61 billion for Kiev at the end of April.

A US official indicated on Friday that Ukraine is unlikely to be invited to join NATO at the alliance's upcoming meeting in June.

"We do not anticipate that there'll be an invitation for Ukraine to join NATO, but we think there will be substantial show of support for Ukraine as it works to win its war," said James O'Brien, assistant secretary for European and Eurasian affairs.

"This will include ongoing NATO support in building Ukraine's future force and efforts to help Ukraine as it makes the reforms needed so that it's able to join the EU and and run across the bridge to NATO as quickly ... as it's able," he added.

According to the Pentagon, the US has already provided Kiev with military aid totalling more than $50 billion since the start of the Russian war against Ukraine.

On the ground, there were reports that two glide bombs hit Kharkiv in a renewed overnight attack on the north-eastern Ukrainian city which has been the target of Russian airstrikes for months.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said on Telegram on Friday that there were no casualties reported and several residential buildings as well as an uninhabited building were slightly damaged.

Seven people were killed by Russian strikes in Kharkiv on Thursday when at least 15 missiles hit the city and the surrounding area during daytime hours.

One of Ukraine's major printing presses was hit in that attack. "The Ukrainian book is the Ukrainian strength. That's why the enemy wants to destroy it," the internationally renowned Ukrainian writer Serhiy Zhadan commented on Facebook.

Kharkiv has been one of the hardest-hit cities during Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine, which began more than two years ago.

The metropolis has been repeatedly attacked from the air - with drones, missiles and glide bombs.

Two weeks ago, Russian armed forces also launched a ground offensive in the Kharkiv border region. The foremost Russian troops are currently less than 20 kilometres from the edge of the city.

The Ukrainian army has now regained control of the border in the eastern Kharkiv region, according to Zelensky. "Our fighters have now managed to take over combat control of the border area where the Russian occupiers have penetrated," Zelensky said in his evening video address on Friday after a visit to Kharkiv.

Zelensky's statements could not initially be independently confirmed.

Two S300 anti-aircraft missiles hit the premises of a printing plant in the south of Kharkiv. Five people were killed and a dozen injured. Nicolas Cleuet/Le Pictorium via ZUMA Press/dpa
Vladimir Putin has hinted at a ceasefire in Ukraine as Kremlin sources said the Russian leader believes he has taken enough territory to present as a victory.

Moscow aides told Western journalists that Putin is ready for a deal to freeze the war along the current front lines.

They also admitted that Russia may not be able to make a significant breakthrough in the fighting without mass mobilisation, which Putin opposes.

Offers of a ceasefire will be viewed with heavy scepticism in Ukraine and the West, which is gearing up for their own peace summit, as well as G7 and Nato talks - all of which Russia is excluded from.

But the comments on the risks of mass mobilisation for Russia offer a rare glimpse into anxiety about the war within the Kremlin.

In briefings given to the Reuters news agency, Kremlin sources said Putin blamed Volodymyr Zelensky for dodging peace talks as he was prepared to order his advancing armies to halt.

Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire - to freeze the war, said one of the sources.

Mr Zelensky has said that he will not negotiate with Putin and has pledged to retake all land captured by Russia.

Putin is also in his strongest position since his initial invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. His armies are on the front foot on battlefields in Ukraine and his industry is outproducing Ukraines allies for arms and weapons, vital in a war that has descended into a slugging match.

The Reuters sources, though, said that Putin was genuine about pushing for a ceasefire because he has become wary of the cost of the war and believes that he can sell territorial gains as a win to Russians.

Putin will say that we won, that Nato attacked us and we kept our sovereignty, that we have a land corridor to Crimea, which is true, said a source.

Three sources said Putin understood any dramatic new advances would require another nationwide mobilisation, which he did not want, with one source, who knows the Russian president, saying his popularity dipped after the first mobilisation in September 2022.

Ceasefire contradicts nuclear push

Russia now occupies around 18 per cent of Ukraine, including Crimea which it annexed in 2014, but the Kremlin has failed to capture the whole of any other region despite promoting the conquest of the eastern region of Donbas as a priority.

This month, Russian forces launched an attack towards Kharkiv in the northeast of the country for the first time since it was routed from the outskirts of the city in 2022.

Putin has previously said that he is interested in finding a ceasefire to the fighting in Ukraine, including during a visit this month to China, Russias most important economic ally.

China has promoted a 12-point peace plan to the war in Ukraine which has been widely discredited.

Calls by Putin for a ceasefire in Ukraine also appear to contradict his increasingly aggressive posture around Russias nuclear weapons.

This week, Russian forces practised using a tactical nuclear weapon on a mock battlefield and Putin also visited Belarus for talks focused on Russian nuclear weapons stationed there since last year.

Analysts said the Kremlin comments may be designed to spread dissent among some of Ukraines European allies who are growing tired of the cost of backing Kyiv.

Samuel Ramani, an Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in London, said: Putin is effectively harnessing the immediate ceasefire component of Chinas peace proposal to present a good faith image, knowing that Ukraine will not accept this.

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During his visit to Belarus, Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to discuss the potential participation of the Belarusian military in Russia's non-strategic nuclear drills, the Russian state-owned news agency RIA Novosti reported on May 24.

Putin arrived in Belarus on May 23 for a two-day visit, meeting Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko. It comes as the latest in Putin's recent foreign engagements, which included a visit to China last week.

Upon his arrival to Minsk, Putin said that he plans to discuss security issues with Lukashenko, as well as the Belarusian participation in the nuclear drills.

Belarus has been a key ally to Moscow and supported Russian aggression against Ukraine, though it has not committed its own forces directly to hostilities. The country is also reportedly hosting Russian tactical nuclear arms on its territory.

The Russian Defense Ministry announced earlier in May it aims to practice the usage of tactical nuclear weapons in response to purported and unspecified "provocative statements" from the West.

"We will talk about the second phase of the exercises. This will concern a direct participation of our Belarusian friends and colleagues from the military sphere in these events," Putin said in Minsk.

Belarus has also recently tested its nuclear readiness. The country's Defense Ministry announced on May 7 a snap inspection of military units capable of using tactical nuclear arms, including Iskander missile systems. Belarus does not possess its own nuclear weaponry.

Read also: Belarus Weekly: Kyiv considers granting citizenship to foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian National Guard 'Khartiia' brigade service member and a D-20 howitzer crew commander Ivan Liashko prepares to fire towards Russian troops in a front line in Kharkiv region

Ukrainian National Guard 'Khartiia' brigade service member and a D-20 howitzer crew commander Ivan Liashko prepares to fire towards Russian troops in a front line in Kharkiv region

By Guy Faulconbridge and Andrew Osborn

MOSCOW/LONDON (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, four Russian sources told Reuters, saying he is prepared to fight on if Kyiv and the West do not respond.

Three of the sources, familiar with discussions in Putin's entourage, said the veteran Russian leader had expressed frustration to a small group of advisers about what he views as Western-backed attempts to stymie negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's decision to rule out talks.

"Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war," said another of the four, a senior Russian source who has worked with Putin and has knowledge of top level conversations in the Kremlin.

He, like the others cited in this story, spoke on condition of anonymity given the matter's sensitivity.

For this account, Reuters spoke to a total of five people who work with or have worked with Putin at a senior level in the political and business worlds. The fifth source did not comment on freezing the war at the current frontlines.

Asked about the Reuters report at a news conference in Belarus on Friday, Putin said peace talks should restart.

"Let them resume," he said, adding that negotiations should be based on "the realities on the ground" and on a plan agreed during a previous attempt to reach a deal in the first weeks of the war. "Not on the basis of what one side wants," he said.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on X that the Russian leader was trying to derail a Ukrainian-initiated peace summit in Switzerland next month by using his entourage to send out "phony signals" about his alleged readiness to halt the war.

"Putin currently has no desire to end his aggression against Ukraine. Only the principled and united voice of the global majority can force him to choose peace over war," said Kuleba.

Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential adviser, said Putin wanted Western democracies to accept defeat.

NOT "ETERNAL WAR"

The appointment last week of economist Andrei Belousov as Russia's defence minister was seen by some Western military and political analysts as placing the Russian economy on a permanent war footing in order to win a protracted conflict.

It followed sustained battlefield pressure and territorial advances by Russia in recent weeks.

However, the sources said that Putin, re-elected in March for a new six-year term, would rather use Russia's current momentum to put the war behind him. They did not directly comment on the new defence minister.

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov, in response to a request for comment, said the country did not want eternal war.

Based on their knowledge of conversations in the upper ranks of the Kremlin, two of the sources said Putin was of the view that gains in the war so far were enough to sell a victory to the Russian people.

Europe's biggest ground conflict since World War Two has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides and led to sweeping Western sanctions on Russia's economy.

Three sources said Putin understood any dramatic new advances would require another nationwide mobilisation, which he didn't want, with one source, who knows the Russian president, saying his popularity dipped after the first mobilisation in September 2022.

The national call up spooked part of the population in Russia, triggering hundreds of thousands of draft age men to leave the country. Polls showed Putins popularity falling by several points.

Peskov said Russia had no need for mobilisation and was instead recruiting volunteer contractors to the armed forces.

The prospect of a ceasefire, or even peace talks, currently seems remote.

Zelenskiy has repeatedly said peace on Putin's terms is a non-starter. He has vowed to retake lost territory, including Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. He signed a decree in 2022 that formally declared any talks with Putin "impossible."

One of the sources predicted no agreement could happen while Zelenskiy was in power, unless Russia bypassed him and struck a deal with Washington. However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Kyiv last week, told reporters he did not believe Putin was interested in serious negotiations.

SWISS TALKS

The Swiss peace summit in June is aimed at unifying international opinion on how to end the war. The talks were convened at the initiative of Zelenskiy who has said Putin should not attend. Switzerland has not invited Russia.

Moscow has said the talks are not credible without it being there. Ukraine and Switzerland want Russian allies including China to attend.

Speaking in China on May 17, Putin said Ukraine may use the Swiss talks to get a broader group of countries to back Zelenskiys demand for a total Russian withdrawal, which Putin said would be an imposed condition rather than a serious peace negotiation.

The Swiss foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In response to questions for this story, a U.S. State Department spokesperson said any initiative for peace must respect Ukraines territorial integrity, within its internationally recognised borders and described Russia as the sole obstacle to peace in Ukraine.

The Kremlin has yet to demonstrate any meaningful interest in ending its war, quite the opposite, the spokesperson said.

Kyiv says Putin, whose team repeatedly denied he was planning a war before invading Ukraine in 2022, cannot be trusted to honour any deal.

Both Russia and Ukraine have also said they fear the other side would use any ceasefire to re-arm.

Kyiv and its Western backers are banking on a $61 billion U.S. aid package and additional European military aid to reverse what Zelenskiy described to Reuters this week as "one of the most difficult moments" of the full scale war.

As well as shortages of ammunition after U.S. delays in approving the package, Ukraine has admitted it is struggling to recruit enough troops and last month lowered the age for men who can be drafted to 25 from 27.

TERRITORY

Putin's insistence on locking in any battlefield gains in a deal is non-negotiable, all of the sources suggested.

Putin would, however, be ready to settle for what land he has now and freeze the conflict at the current front lines, four of the sources said.

"Putin will say that we won, that NATO attacked us and we kept our sovereignty, that we have a land corridor to Crimea, which is true," one of them said, giving their own analysis.

Freezing the conflict along current lines would leave Russia in possession of substantial chunks of four Ukrainian regions he formally incorporated into Russia in September 2022, but without full control of any of them.

Such an arrangement would fall short of the goals Moscow set for itself at the time, when it said the four of Ukraine's regions - Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson - now belonged to it in their entirety.

Peskov said that there could be no question of handing back the four regions which were now permanently part of Russia according to its own constitution.

Another factor playing into the Kremlin chief's view that the war should end is that the longer it drags on, the more battle-hardened veterans return to Russia, dissatisfied with post-war job and income prospects, potentially creating tensions in society, said one of the sources, who has worked with Putin.

'RUSSIA WILL PUSH FURTHER'

In February, three Russian sources told Reuters the United States rejected a previous Putin suggestion of a ceasefire to freeze the war.

In the absence of a ceasefire, Putin wants to take as much territory as possible to ratchet up pressure on Ukraine while seeking to exploit unexpected opportunities to acquire more, three of the sources said.

Russian forces control around 18% of Ukraine and this month thrust into the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

Putin is counting on Russia's large population compared to Ukraine to sustain superior manpower even without a mobilisation, bolstered by unusually generous pay packets for those who sign up.

"Russia will push further," the source who has worked with Putin said.

Putin will slowly conquer territories until Zelenskiy comes up with an offer to stop, the person said, saying the Russian leader had expressed the view to aides that the West would not provide enough weapons, sapping Ukraine's morale.

U.S. and European leaders have said they will stand by Ukraine until its security sovereignty is guaranteed. NATO countries and allies say they are trying to accelerate deliveries of weapons.

Russia could end the war at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine, instead of continuing to launch brutal attacks against Ukraines cities, ports, and people every day, the State Department said in response to a question about weapons supplies.

All five sources said Putin had told advisers he had no designs on NATO territory, reflecting his public comments on the matter. Two of the sources cited Russian concerns about the growing danger of escalation with the West, including nuclear escalation, over the Ukraine standoff.

The State Department said the United States had not adjusted its nuclear posture, nor seen any sign that Russia was preparing to use a nuclear weapon.

We continue to monitor the strategic environment and remain ready, the spokesperson said.

(Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge in Moscow and Andrew Osborn in LondonWriting by Andrew Osborn Editing by Frank Jack Daniel)
BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Friday presided over a State Council executive meeting to hear a report on the work of administrative reconsideration.

The meeting also deliberated and adopted the opinions on expanding cross-border e-commerce exports and advancing the construction of overseas warehouses. 
Putin's favorite NATO member wants to 'redefine' membership so it doesn't have to help Ukraine

Putin's favorite NATO member wants to 'redefine' membership so it doesn't have to help Ukraine

Hungary's prime minister said officials were working to "redefine" his country's NATO membership.

He said the aim was to not have to "take part in NATO actions outside NATO territory."

The change would probably allow Hungary to avoid being involved in NATO assistance to Ukraine.

The NATO member most aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to alter its membership in the Western military alliance so it can avoid aiding Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion.

Viktor Orban, the prime minister of Hungary, told state radio on Friday, "Our lawyers and officers are hard at work to see how Hungary can maintain its NATO membership in a way that it wouldn't have to take part in NATO actions outside NATO territory," according to Bloomberg.

Orban said military officials and lawyers in the country were trying to find ways to allow Hungary to act differently from other alliance members.

He said allowing Hungary to formally opt out of NATO discussions about expanding its role in the current conflict in Ukraine would result in a new kind of NATO membership.

It would "redefine" Hungary's membership, he said.

Hungary blocks support for Ukraine

Hungary has sought to restrain Western and NATO support for Ukraine throughout Russia's invasion.

It doesn't send weapons to Ukraine, and it spent months blocking billions in European Union funds for the country before eventually allowing it to proceed in February.

In April 2022, two months after the invasion began, Orban referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as one of his "opponents."

In the recent interview, Orban said he supported NATO's policy of helping other members if they came under attack but didn't support giving Ukraine which isn't a member  money and weaponry, as most of the alliance does.

He said doing so could lead to more military involvement in Ukraine, including sending troops.

Orban also said he didn't agree with the views of some NATO members that Russia might invade countries on the eastern flank of the alliance, instead describing Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a war between "two Slavic countries."

Multiple European countries, including those on NATO's eastern flank that border Russia, have warned that Russia could attack elsewhere, and they need to prepare.

NATO is backing Ukraine

NATO has been a strong supporter of Ukraine throughout the conflict.

Through the alliance, members have pledged more than $700 million in support, in addition to billions in contributions they've made individually.

NATO's secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, has proposed that NATO allies coordinate $100 billion for Ukraine over the next five years, but not all members seem convinced by the plan.

Stoltenberg has also said Ukraine will one day become a member of NATO, something that is strongly opposed by Russia.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Quad-City business that prides itself on feeding souls is stepping up to feed a community in need.

The community of Greenfield, Iowa, is just beginning to recover after the town of 2,000 took a direct hit from an EF3 tornado. Four people were killed, and dozens were hurt. Entire blocks of homes were flattened that will take months and years to recover. However, theyre not doing it alone, because help is pouring in from all over.

Tonis Smokin Grill in East Moline will be helping the victims in Greenfield. The owner of the pop-up restaurant said she needed to help as soon as she saw the aftermath. I woke up that morning and just saw the devastation, Toni Bare said. I remember before we went to bed that night, we lost power. The winds started picking up like crazy, and it took me a little bit to go to sleep. I was nervous, but then when I woke up in the morning, it was all over my phone, and there was no hesitation. I said, yeah, we got to go out there.'

Were coming from out of town, Andre Cato, a manager at Tonis Smokin Grill, said. I think its going to make a big difference for them and help them get their spirits up at least a little bit. Theres going to be a lot of tears. Weve seen the videos of what its looking like out there, but I expect it to be something thats revitalizing and going to give the people out there a little hope, like people actually care.

Tonis posted on social media to ask the community to help with any donations possible, utilizing tools like Walmart online shopping. It allows anyone to donate, even if theyre not in the area. Everybody came in and chipped in, and its a beautiful thing, Cato said. I love it. Im enjoying it, but at the same time Im feeling bad. I love the support, the way people are reaching out to her, and saying we have something to donate for you.

Tonis will travel to Greenfield on Saturday, dropping off their donations at various sites in Greenfield where people can feel the support from the Quad Cities. That is an act of God that no one can predict, Bare said. Im an emotional person already. Im going to try my best to put my big girl britches on and realize why Im there. I dont want to cause any more heart ache. I just want to be able to be somebody that helps, even if its just for a small moment. Thats it.

To donate to Tonis cause before Saturday, click here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
Non-combustible products like vapes, and oral nicotine pouches carry much less risk than traditional cigarettes. So why did Rhode Island lawmakers ban flavored vapes and why are they now considering increasing the tax o e-cigarettes? (Getty image)

Government decisions and inconsistency tend to go hand-in-hand. Unfortunately, Rhode Island is not immune to this problem. Thats particularly true with harm reduction policy. Harm reduction is about minimizing the risks associated with certain behaviors, such as drug use, rather than insisting on policies that prohibit substances or only abstain from them.

Simply put, Rhode Island lawmakers are adopting laws that meet people where they are regarding cannabis and opioid use  but are taking a retrograde prohibitionist approach to nicotine use. By limiting peoples access to reduced risk nicotine products (RRPs)  such as Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) which includes e-cigarettes and vapes  lawmakers are unintentionally contributing to more people smoking combustible cigarettes, and dying as a result.

Recent research from the R Street Institute highlighted this mind-blowing inconsistency. Rhode Island, to its credit, is on the cutting edge of harm reduction policy for opioids and other illicit drugs because it treats the issue primarily as a public health concern rather than a law-enforcement one.

The state was an early adopter of policies to authorize syringe service programs shown to dramatically reduce infectious disease transmission among drug users. It has also legalized drug-checking equipment to help individuals test for adulterants like fentanyl and xylazine, substances which greatly increase overdoses. The state was the first in the country to adopt a statute authorizing overdose prevention centers, which provide a safe space for people to use illegal drugs  purchased elsewhere  under medical supervision.

Even though the state has been slower to adopt policies reducing harms associated with cannabis, it has made positive progress by legalizing medical cannabis in 2006, and recreational cannabis in 2022. Legislators understand that abstinence isnt a viable strategy for many users of opioids and cannabis and that these individuals need access to tools and resources to protect their health. However, this same mindset doesnt extend to smokers, whose access to RRPs like e-cigarettes has been continuously limited.

To put it plainly, Rhode Island has failed to embrace tobacco harm reduction, and its advancing proposals that undermine efforts to shift smokers towards RRPs. In 2020, the state banned flavored tobacco products. That serves also as a de facto ban on vaping given that almost all vaping products use flavors.

By limiting peoples access to reduced risk nicotine products  such as Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems, which includes e-cigarettes and vapes  lawmakers are unintentionally contributing to more people smoking combustible cigarettes, and dying as a result.

This session, H 7225, includes provisions that would impose the current 80% tax on wholesale price for e-cigarettes. Also, the bill would ban all ENDS flavors besides tobacco. While this is promoted as advancing public health, it undermines adult smokers efforts to quit combustibles for safer alternatives by decreasing flavor options and increasing the costs to obtain them.

Compared to smokers who inhale 7,000 chemicals and over 70 toxic carcinogens when using combustible tobacco, e-cigarettes lack these chemicals and are 95% safer than traditional cigarettes. Its foolish to keep the most dangerous products legal while limiting access to safer ones.

Rhode Island legislators should follow the lead of public health officials including the National Academies, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Public Health England, and Royal College of Physicians who assess nicotine products based on risk. Combustible cigarettes impose the highest degree of risk  and non-combustible products like vapes, and oral nicotine pouches carry much less risk. Moreover, these products are safe and effective options for smoking cessation. Reports indicate they are even more successful at curtailing smoking than the nicotine patch or gum.

Additionally, research has found that flavored vapes help more people quit smoking. Flavor selection is crucial for adults attempting to switch to e-cigarettes. Flavored ENDS help smokers disassociate from the tobacco flavoring, which assists them in quitting.

Rhode Island legislators risk increasing smoking-related healthcare costs, which are already $640 million annually. The data is clear: Using harm reduction to mitigate traditional cigarette use will save lives and reduce health-related costs. History is rife with examples of prohibition being a failurewhy not try something different and allow adults to make informed decisions that impact their own bodies? It would be a consistent policy to undertake.

The post R.I.s harm-reduction hypocrisy harms public health appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
Raul Porto Sr., center, stands among three generations of the Porto family in their bakery in 2001. (Annie Wells / Los Angeles Times)

If youve ever held a pastel-yellow box full of Cuban pastries in Los Angeles, youve most likely tasted the legacy of Raul Porto Sr. On Wednesday the patriarch and co-founder of Portos, one of the regions most popular bakery chains, died at the age of 92.

Portos company shared the news in an Instagram post late Friday morning, adding that he died peacefully, surrounded by his family. Porto and his late wife, baker and co-founder Rosa Porto, helped generations of Cuban immigrants find a taste of home and popularized regional specialties such as stuffed-and-fried potato balls, or papas rellenas; pressed Cuban sandwiches; and their refugiados, or guava-and-cheese pastelitos. Their pastries are so popular, even a single variety can sell tens of thousands in a month.

Portos has become its own language, to the extent that its baked and hot foods no longer just represent Cuba  theyve come to represent Los Angeles, former L.A. Times Food columnist Lucas Kwan Peterson wrote in a review last year .

Rosa Porto died in 2019 at the age of 89 . Rosa and Raul Sr. are survived by generations of Portos, including multiple grandchildren. Their three children  Beatriz, Raul Jr. and Margarita  all grew up helping out in their parents bakery operation, then went on to run the business themselves.

Read more: The power of Porto's: Why those yellow boxes of guava pastries will always say 'L.A.'

The Portos, from Manzanillo, Cuba, had hoped to move to the U.S. for years and placed themselves on a waiting list during Fidel Castros rule  a period that saw Raul Porto Sr. sent to a labor camp as Rosa Porto lost her job. She began baking cakes and pasteles to support the family, and carried those recipes with her when they emigrated in 1971 to build a better life for themselves.

The cake orders began immediately, and the couple sold her treats out of their home kitchen for years.

When the Portos arrived in Los Angeles, Raul Porto Sr. found work as a janitor and other jobs while his wifes underground bakery business took off, and together they built Portos into an L.A. legend.

Raul Sr. would assist whenever he could, even while working at another local bakery, the Porto family shared on Instagram. After several years, he was able to join Rosa full-time, dedicating himself to growing their business. Through their hard work, humility and dedication, they transformed a small family endeavor into a cherished community treasure. Known for his humble nature, Raul Sr. balanced his roles as a devoted husband, father, and businessman, inspiring all who knew him with his passion and commitment.

Read more: How Rosa Porto created the most beloved bakery in all of Los Angeles

The Portos empire began humbly with a first storefront of only 300 square feet in a Silver Lake strip mall in 1976, paid for with a bank loan. In an effort to attract customers they expanded beyond Cuban pastries to serve treats that appealed to a number of cultures  danishes, fruit tarts, muffins and more. That embrace of other items and cultures helped their bakery maintain its relevance, no doubt contributing to the local chains vast appeal for decades. In 1982 Portos relocated to Glendale, and eventually expanded to Burbank, Downey, Buena Park, West Covina and Northridge. A location is slated for Downtown Disney in Anaheim.

"We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support we've received following the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Raul Porto Sr.," the Porto Family said in an email to the L.A. Times. "All the kind words and shared memories have been a great comfort to us during this time of loss.

As we navigate through our grief, we are deeply touched by the affection weve received. Your tributes show the impact he had on so many lives, and for that, we are forever grateful. Thank you for honoring his legacy with us."





Sign up for our Tasting Notes newsletter for restaurant reviews, Los Angeles food-related news and more.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Reuters) -Israel was ordered by the World Court on Friday to halt its military assault on the city of Rafah during the Gaza war.

Here are some reactions:

HAMAS OFFICIAL BASEM NAIM:

"We welcome the decision by the World Court that calls on the Zionist occupation forces to end its military aggression on Rafah. We believe it is not enough since the occupation aggression across the Gaza Strip and especially in northern Gaza is just as brutal and dangerous.

"We call upon the U.N. Security Council to immediately implement this demand by the World Court into practical measures to compel the Zionist enemy to implement the decision.

"We welcome the court's request to allow investigation committees to reach the Gaza Strip to investigate acts of war of genocide against the Palestinian people and Hamas pledges to cooperate with investigation committees."

PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY SPOKESPERSON NABIL ABU RUDEINEH:

"The presidency welcomes the decision issued by the International Court of Justice, which represents an international consensus on the demand to stop the all-out war on Gaza."

ISRAEL

PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE AND FOREIGN MINISTRY, JOINT STATEMENT:

"South Africa's accusations against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague regarding 'genocide' are false, outrageous and disgusting. Israel has not and will not carry out a military campaign in the Rafah area that creates living conditions that could lead to the destruction of the Palestinian civilian population, in whole or in part."

FINANCE MINISTER BEZALEL SMOTRICH:

"Those who demand that the State of Israel stop the war, demand that it decree itself to cease to exist. We will not agree to that."

OPPOSITION LEADER YAIR LAPID:

"The ICC arrest warrants are a complete moral failure, we cannot accept the outrageous comparison between Netanyahu and (Hamas leader) Sinwar, between the leaders of Israel and the leaders of Hamas.

"The fact that the court in the Hague did not make the connection in its ruling between the cessation of fighting in Rafah and the return of the hostages and Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism is a moral collapse and a moral disaster."

FORMER U.N. ENVOY DANNY DANON:

"As ICJ judges in The Hague deliberate in comfort and return to their families, 125 hostages languish in tunnels. Israel will not cease the war until our hostages are brought back home and Hamas is completely defeated."

WAR CABINET MINISTER BENNY GANTZ:

"The State of Israel set out on a just and necessary campaign following the brutal massacre of its citizens, abhorrent sexual violence perpetrated against its women, kidnapping of its children and rockets fired at its cities. The State of Israel is committed to continue fighting to return its hostages and promise the security of its citizens - wherever and whenever necessary - including in Rafah.

"We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for."

ISRAELI GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON before the ruling:

"No power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza".

WHITE HOUSE NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL SPOKESPERSON:

"We've been clear and consistent on our position on Rafah."

SOUTH AFRICAN PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA:

"South Africa welcomes the order handed down by the International Court of Justice today.

"We are gravely concerned that Israel has restricted necessary levels of aid from entering Gaza and has systematically targeted aid and aid infrastructure within Gaza.

"This case is thus focused on the ordinary Palestinians in Gaza who are now facing their seventh month of suffering through collective punishment for something for which they have no individual responsibility.

"South Africa remains concerned that the United Nations Security Council has so far not succeeded in stopping the human suffering."

EU'S TOP DIPLOMAT JOSEP BORRELL:

"What is going to be the (EU's) answer to the ruling of the International Court of Justice that has been issued today, what is going to be our position? We will have to choose between our support to international institutions of the rule of law or our support to Israel."

BELGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER HADJA LAHBIB:

"The @CIJ_ICJ orders Israel to stop its military offensive in Rafah. (Belgium) calls for immediate implementation of the decision. The violence and human suffering in Gaza must stop. We call for a ceasefire, the release of the hostages and negotiations for two States."

GLOBAL RIGHTS COMPLIANCE NGO:

"The ruling today serves as another admonishment of Israel's flagrant disregard for international law and the obligation to protect civilians in conflict.

"Crucially, it gives critical recognition to survivors and the communities living under these attacks that they are unlawful. The ruling is likely to generate further pressure and international attention against Israel and their conduct of hostilities which has, to date, had all the hallmarks of starvation being used as a deliberate method of warfare.

JORDAN FOREIGN MINISTER AYMAN SAFADI:

"Once again, the ICJ exposes Israels war crimes in Gaza. And once again, the Israeli Govt reacts with disdain to Intl law, refusing to heed the Courts orders. The SC (Security Council) must shoulder its responsibility, put an end to Israels impunity & to double standards in enforcing Intl law."

REED BRODY, WAR CRIMES PROSECUTOR:

"The ICJ has stepped up to the plate with an historic decision that responds to the escalating gravity of the situation in Gaza. The court has crossed a threshold, for the first time, by ordering Israel to halt specific military operations as well as to open the Rafah crossing and other crossings and allow access to international fact-finding missions.

"This legally binding and very specific ruling leaves Israel with very little wiggle room. Together with the ICC prosecutors request for indictments of Prime Minister Netanyahu and other top Israeli and Hamas officials, these actions are a 1-2 legal punch to the conduct of Israels war in Gaza."

EGYPTIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY:

"Egypt calls on Israel to comply with its legal obligations within the framework of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and international humanitarian law, and to implement all interim measures issued by the ICJ, which are considered legally binding and enforceable, as they are issued by the highest international judicial body.

"Egypt stresses that Israel bears full legal responsibility for the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip as the occupying power, calling on Israel to stop its systematic policies against the Palestinian people of targeting, starvation and siege in violation of all provisions of international law and international humanitarian law."

NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER ESPEN BARTH EIDE:

"I expect Israel to carry out the measures that have been ordered. Respect for the court and its functions, including the authority to order interim measures, is essential to strengthening international law and the international legal order."

CANADIAN DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER CHRYSTIA FREELAND:

Freeland, reacting to the ruling, said she expected all parties to follow international law.

SAUDI ARABIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY:

"Saudi Arabia welcomes the decision issued by the International Court of Justice ordering Israel to immediately stop the military offensive or any other actions in Rafah, in accordance with the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide."

TURKISH FOREIGN MINISTRY:

"We welcome the interim decision ... ordering Israel to halt its attacks on Rafah in Gaza and immediately open the Rafah border gate to humanitarian aid.

"No country in the world is above the law. We expect all decisions taken by the Court to be quickly implemented by Israel. To ensure this, we invite the U.N. Security Council to do its part."

COUNCIL ON AMERICAN-ISLAMIC RELATIONS:

"We applaud this binding order by the United Nations top court demanding an immediate end to Israels slaughter and forced displacement of Palestinian civilians in Rafah.

"While the Biden administration stands alone in continuing to offer full support for Israels genocide in Gaza, the international community is increasingly pushing back against the slaughter, forced starvation and ethnic cleansing Israels far-right government is inflicting on the Palestinian people.

"Israel is clearly attempting to make Gaza uninhabitable. It must be stopped from completing this monstrous goal. President Biden must honor this important ruling by immediately ending all military assistance to Israels genocide."

(Reported by Reuters reporters worldwide; Compiled by Andrew Cawthorne; Editing by William Maclean and Jonathan Oatis)
This story is being published in partnership with American Doom, a newsletter that focuses on right-wing extremism and other threats to democracy.

Just after 3 a.m. last Friday, in a small Central Illinois city infamous in the area for being a former sundowner town, a Pekin police officer pulled over a car for a traffic violation, according to an affidavit. Dalton Mattus, 34, was a passenger inside the vehicle, and police say they found a canvas bag under his seat locked with a padlock. When an officer asked what was in the bag, Mattus reportedly said the officer would have to get a warrant to find out. Police took the bag and let Mattus go, then obtained a warrant from a judge and opened the bag inside city hall. There, they found a .45 caliber pistol and two homemade pipe bombs rigged with BBs, evacuated the building, and called in a bomb squad from neighboring Peoria, according to local reports.

Mattus was charged with being a felon in possession of a weapon  his felony stems from a 2018 theft conviction. Police then went to his home and engaged in a brief standoff before arresting Mattus, according to local media. There, police say, they found three more pipe bombs. Authorities havent said what they believed Mattus planned to do with the bombs, but he allegedly told police that he had made them for protection from undocumented immigrants and a corrupt government, a local radio station reported. Police told a local TV station that the general public was not at threat.

Rolling Stone and American Doom analyzed more than 200 of Mattus social media posts going back to 2016. Starting around June 2020, Mattus posts suggest he was sucked into the dregs of the far-right internet, where he voraciously consumed and posted about conspiracies and anti-government vitriol.

Among the hundreds of posts Mattus shared over the past several years were his willingness to go to civil war, and his support for conspiracy theories ranging from chemtrails, to QAnon, to election lies, and sweeping anti-government conspiracies. In March 2023, Mattus changed his profile picture to an upside-down American flag with the phrase, We are not OK.

To everybody that is disgusted with the way our government is being ran, Mattus said in an April 2023 TikTok video. There needs to be, like, a call to arms. Something needs to happen  now.

Kevin Johnson, Tazewell Countys lead prosecutor, tells American Doom and Rolling Stone: Its very possible that there will be some additional charges, including some of the things that youre asking about. Obviously were investigating that aspect of it, including why he had those devices.

American Doom and Rolling Stone attempted to contact an attorney for Mattus but could not identify one. The Tazewell County Public Defenders Office said Mattus does not have an attorney assigned from their office. The county prosecutor said his office does not currently have information about an attorney for Mattus.

Political conspiracies have been fueling right-wing radicalization online for years, security experts and others agree, gaining momentum in 2020 thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, nationwide protests against police brutality in the wake of the killing of George Floyd, and Donald Trumps lies about the 2020 election. The antisemitic attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue in 2018, the anti-immigrant massacre at an El Paso Walmart in 2019, the attack on two New Zealand mosques that same year, and the white supremacist mass murder at a gay nightclub in Colorado in 2022 were all committed by right-wing extremists who were partially radicalized online by political conspiracy theories.

Mattus, a welder by trade who worked at area manufacturing giants Caterpillar and Komatsu, according to his Facebook profile, prolifically shared conspiracy content. In recent years, Mattus also became a father, saying he wanted children because it would give him something to fight for. Mattus previous run-ins with the law, in addition to the felony theft, include misdemeanor convictions for theft, criminal trespass, domestic battery, and damage to property; he was also the subject of a restraining order, court records show. Online, Mattus also complained about having his children taken away by family with the help of child protective services.

Now my children are pumped full of vaccines that they didnt even need and for what reason but the (sic) poison them, Mattus wrote on Facebook on Dec. 3, 2023. I was a monster before my children were born and now that I dont get to see them anymore you will see the fucking devil.

Since June 2020, Mattus has posted multiple times a day about nearly every right-wing conspiracy imaginable, including posts about gun control efforts, the pandemic, the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, and QAnon-fueled claims of rampant pedophilia among Democrats.

Mattus also posted several times about the 2020 election being rigged against Donald Trump.

I am completely disgusted that people voted for Joe Biden to be the president, Mattus wrote on Facebook days after the 2020 election, calling Biden a fucking child molester, an unfounded QAnon claim. I am fucking irate this is complete and utter bullshit Im ready for the fucking Civil War, he wrote.

Asked if Mattus descent into right-wing conspiracies was as much a reality as it appeared in his online postings, a family member who did not want to be named said that the truth about Mattus beliefs was probably whatever it appears online. It looks like youve got all your information off his posts anyways, so it looks like youve got everything you need, the family member told American Doom and Rolling Stone.

Mattus consumption of right-wing conspiracies came at a time when social media companies actually had some form of content moderation that sought to prevent the type of extremist material that Mattus took in. Now, Facebook and others have reduced content moderation protections for political speech, allowing content creators and politicians to disseminate misinformation and falsehoods. Facebook is among the leaders of platforms allowing for the proliferation of political misinformation regarding the 2024 election, and is home to hundreds of right-wing militia groups who are openly organizing on the platform  much like they did in the lead-up to Jan. 6.

Mattus has expressed anti-government sentiment on Facebook since 2020, before joining TikTok in 2023. There, his consumption of conspiracy content apparently exploded, resulting in hundreds of TikToks shared on Facebook expressing support for a toxic stew of right-wing conspiracies, gun fetishism, civil war fantasies, apocalypse prepping, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, anti-immigrant sentiment, and violence against Democrats, the left, and government officials.

If it was up to me I would gather patriots and go to civil war against these domestic terrorist (sic), Mattus wrote on Facebook on September 5, 2020. In March 2023, Mattus said it was time to fight before it comes to your front door directly.

In one of just a handful of his personal TikTok posts, Mattus shared a pair of videos in June 2023 in which he discussed a conspiracy that U.S. veterans were being kicked out of hotels in favor of illegal Mexicans, and his frustration that he couldnt buy an AR-15 assault rifle or extended magazines due to Illinois gun laws.

Theyre slowly taking away our gun rights so we cant defend ourselves from them. [] Im fucking tired of it. My whole family thinks Im fucking nuts because alls Im fucking concerned about is what the government is doing to us  and for some reason, our countrys so goddamned concerned on what the fuck a gender is, Mattus said in the video, posted on June 25, 2023. If you have a dick, you have a dick. If you have a vagina, you have a vagina. I dont give a fuck if youre gay or not Its all fucked. Wake the fuck up!

As college students protested U.S. support for Israels war in Gaza, Mattus uncharacteristically took the side of protesters, sharing a handful of posts supporting them  including a video from a Code Pink TikTok account that criticized Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.) for calling a pro-Gaza protester a terrorist.

Bree Zender contributed to this report.

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The family of a man gunned down in the parking lot of North Marion Middle School remembers him as a loving father to four children.

Marion County deputies say Joseph James Coles was shot and killed by his ex-wifes fiance Wednesday evening.

It happened as dozens of families gathered at the school for an end of the year award ceremony.

According to Coles family and friends, he was there to watch his son receive an award when he was senselessly murdered by 34-year-old Roderick Watson.

Witnesses said there was a verbal disagreement about who was taking the children home for the night.

According to Marion County deputies, numerous witness watched as Roderick grabbed a handgun, shot Coles 6 times, punched Coles lifeless body, then waited to be arrested.

" We found him sitting on a bench up front of the school with a smile on his face, said Lt. Paul Bloom with the Marion County Sheriffs office.

Read: Woman accused of killing elderly Mount Dora couple in 2022 found incompetent to stand trial

On Thursday, Channel 9 spoke with Coles longtime friend and roommate Woo Hicks. She said Coles was proud to watch his son receive an award, and was holding his youngest daughters hand right before he was shot.

Why would you do that in front of his kids. Why would you do that, said Hicks.

Hicks told Channel 9 Coles never raised his voice when he was senselessly gunned down.

Despite a difficult divorce, Hicks said he consistently was there for his kids.

He didnt just give money to his children, or child support for his children. He was in the life of his children, said Coles pastor, Sophilia Givens.

Givens recalled Coles bringing his children to church events and proudly watching them in church performances.

Read: Raising Canes, Dutch Bros Coffee & City Barbeque being built near Full Sail University

Givens said Coles died trying to spend time with the people he loved most.

He went out displaying what he lived for. Every breath Joey (Coles) had he thought about his children. And that is how he left this world, said Givens.

According to Marion County deputies, the suspect told deputies he shot Coles out of self-defense. But deputies said the evidence shows this was a homicide.

According to Lt. Bloom, Coles was unarmed and was running away from the suspect when he was first shot.

Witnesses said Watson grabbed the victim by the back of the neck and shot him near point-blank in the upper back.

Witnesses also said the Coles never raised his voice and stated the victim was very calm in volume and mannerisms during the argument that proceeded the shooting.

Watson is charged with homicide and makes his first appearance Friday morning.

Read: Dispute between ambulance company and insurance company leaves customers in the middle

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Kelli Johnson, a Texas district court judge who has not been seen since the beginning of the month, is not missing, her brother told The Daily Beastshe is on medical leave.

The rumors about Harris County Judge Johnson began swirling this week, when local news station ABC13 reported she had been mysteriously absent from her post at the 178th Criminal Court since May 1. Coworkers told the outlet she was exhibiting manic behavior before she disappeared and was a danger to herself and to the community.

But Clay Johnson, the judges brother and a local attorney, told The Daily Beast his sister was fine and that her family and wife are in daily contact with her.

Shes not missing, shes on medical leave, he said. Shes in touch with the family, and everything is fine and thats about all I can say.

Johnson is one of the longest-serving judges in the county and the first openly gay woman to be elected to her position. Her role involves overseeing high-profile murder cases, such as a recent capital murder case in which a 34-year-old man was accused of brutally killing his girlfriends 8-year-old son.

The boys surviving siblings all testified in the trial, detailing how their mothers boyfriend, Brian Coulter, beat them and locked them in their rooms for hours on end. The youngest, now 9, described how he watched Coulter beat his brother to death with a Spider-Man figurine and a model jet.

On the final day of trial last month, Johnson deliberated for 20 minutes before finding Coulter guilty and sentencing him to life without parole. She spoke directly to Coulter at the hearing, telling him how presiding over his case had impacted her personal life.

Ive been practicing criminal law for 24-ish years, she said. I thought I'd heard everything. I thought Id gotten pretty good at compartmentalizing things that occur up here when I go back to my own family, to my own life. But that stopped with this case.

Johnson called the facts of this case some of the most horrific shed ever seen, noting that she had been required to painstakingly witness [and] take notes and go over every single one of those exhibits.

Those children have haunted me this last week, she said. They have haunted my mind and they have interrupted my safe space when I leave this building.

Clay Johnson declined to comment on whether the case had any impact on his sisters decision to take medical leave or when she would return to work.

Houston police responded to an incident involving Johnson near her home on May 4 that was recorded as a disturbance/CIT, or crisis intervention, according to ABC 13.

A court spokesperson previously told the outlet that Johnson was out for personal matters. A visiting judge and retired judge took over some of her cases in her stead.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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On the day Marilyn Mosby staged her star-making press conference on the steps of a downtown Baltimore courthouse in April 2015, I was a few blocks away sitting with the family of Freddie Gray and their attorney. Mosby announced shed be charging six police officers in his death.

This is a moment. This is your moment, Mosby said. She didnt have to say it was also her moment, because that seemed obvious. Just four months into her job as the youngest chief prosecutor of any major U.S. city at the time, Mosby seemed destined for far greater heights. The daughter of two police officers, wife of an influential City Council member, and now the chief prosecutor against those Baltimore cops in the national movement for police reformwhere else would she be going but up?

Her commanding presence in front of the cameras and microphones won her a lot of new fans. Gene Demby of NPRs Code Switch pointed out that she had about 10,000 followers on Twitter in the hour after the speech; a few hours later, that number had more than doubled. It felt a little like Mosby has supplanted Thurgood Marshall or Claire Huxtable as the most beloved black attorney in American history, he wrote.

Back at the attorneys office, I watched Grays family and lawyers all moved to tears by Mosbys wordseven famously cocksure defense attorney Billy Murphy!and her audacious attempt to hold Baltimore police accountable for Grays death. She even convinced me this might be an inflection point in the reform movement, after similar cases in Staten Island and Ferguson, Missouri, ultimately ended with no charges or indictments. Murphy seemed to feel the same way: I prayed to be involved in this national debate on police brutality. It was an answer to my prayers because Im tired of it, he said.

Its surreal to think about all thats happened to her and herall of ourgoals for police accountability efforts around the country since that day.

She is no longer serving in any elected capacity. Instead, in two federal court trials, Mosby has been found guilty of perjury related to COVID-19-related hardship withdrawals from her retirement account and a vacation home mortgage. She faced as many as 40 years in prison. But on Thursday, a federal judge sentenced her to 12 months of home detention, three years of supervised release, and 100 hours of community service.

Prior to her sentencing hearing, Mosby took her case to friendly media outlets like MSNBCs The ReidOut and The Breakfast Club morning radio show. Early in May, she applied for a presidential pardon with the backing of the Congressional Black Caucus. In her writing for that, she remained defiant about her lack of guilt: While pardon applications generally express remorse and regret, what happens when justice was not served and in fact, denied? No such remorse and regret is appropriate in this case, Mosby wrote in her application.

More dispiriting than her spiral has been the coordinated backlash against progressive prosecutors around the country. For some time, it felt like the movement was actually gaining momentum. After a Minneapolis police officer killed George Floyd in 2020, many district attorneys in major urban areas pledged to hold law enforcement accountable for their abuses. But in the years since, from Los Angeles to Chicago to Philadelphia, those prosecutors have faced a series of legal and political challenges from the right that have steadily thinned their ranks.

The prosecution of Mosby, who preceded that wave of reform-minded attorneys, seems in many ways to be the ignominious end of that particular movement.

There was great appetite for the changes of scale and scope of the problem in 2020that appetite died in 2020, said Phillip Atiba Solomon, a co-founder of the Center for Policing Equity and chair of African American studies and professor of psychology at Yale University.

Solomon noted that this was normal, to some extent: If were looking for progress on any segment of justice, including reform, it should always be seen through the context of cycles of backlash, he added. As someone whos been covering protests against police abuse for more than a decade now, I often think back to that spring afternoon in Baltimore when Mosby seemed ascendant and police reform seemed possible. Whats happened since should show us all how difficult this battle will really be. And it will require an almost superhuman level of diligence and discipline that can survive the backlash sure to come.

Charming and telegenic, Mosby quickly became a national sensation. The HuffPost asked, Who is this objectively badass attorney running the Freddie Gray investigation? Mosby and her husband, Nick, were invited onstage by Prince at a concert in Baltimore. She was profiled in Vogue magazine and photographed by Annie Leibovitz.

At the time, I assumed that if they worked it correctlyand thats a big ifbut if they worked it correctly, Nick would be mayor and Marilyn would run for Senate, said Derek Musgrove, a history professor at University of MarylandBaltimore County and author of Rumor, Repression, and Racial Politics: How the Harassment of Black Elected Officials Shaped Post-Civil Rights America.

Thats sort of how it could work in a best-case scenario,  Musgrove said.

Needless to say, it did not turn out to be a best-case scenario for Mosby.

I returned to Baltimore in November 2015 for the trial of William Porter, one of the cops who was alleged to have killed Gray. Porter had dropped out of junior college and entered the Baltimore police academy in 2012, hoping to restore trust in law enforcement in the same poverty-stricken neighborhoods where he grew up. Thats what Baltimore Police looks for, the leader of the union for the citys black officers told me at the time.

In 2015, nearly 40 percent of the sworn police officers in Baltimore were Blacka figure that dwarfed much larger cities like Los Angeles and Dallas. But after his arrest, Porter became an example of the failed promise of community policing. He was charged with failing to seek medical treatment for Gray, who was cuffed around his wrists, lying on his side, and loudly complaining that he couldnt breathe in the back of a police van. It was soon discovered Gray suffered a severe spinal cord injury in the van that led to his death seven days later.

Grays death kicked off protests and, ultimately, riots in the same streets Porter had patrolled for three years. Having covered that fiery unrest, I could understand why many Black Baltimoreans saw a champion in Mosby. She took the anger seriously, and seemed willing to channel it into action.

That was really a singular thing, said Lisa Snowden, editor in Chief of Baltimore Beat, a local online news site. When you see a lot of these folks rallying around her [now], they still remember thatthats how powerful that moment was.

But Mosbys prosecutors couldnt secure a conviction against Porter. His trial ended almost three weeks later in a mistrial, after jurors were unable to reach a verdict on any of his charges after three days of deliberation. The disappointment was palpable as I walked out of the courtroom that afternoon and followed Mosby down the same steps that she had dramatically descended eight months earlier. The swagger was gone; she hugged her prosecutors and rushed out with her security detail, taking no questions.

Up against a judge who insisted there wasnt enough evidence to support the charges, three of the other officers allegedly involved in Grays death were found not guilty in separate trials in May, June, and July 2016. Finally, Mosby conceded that she had little chance of securing a conviction and dropped criminal charges against the remaining officers still awaiting trial, including Porter. She called the decision agonizing.

There was little anger in the streets, mostly just resignation.

The Freddie Gray trial made me feel like were not ready for this part of reform, Solomon said. That was the one that hit me real hard.

Part of the resignation may have had to do with how novel these trials really were. Mosby preceded the wave of big-city progressive prosecutors who took office in the years after, particularly in the wake of Floyds murder in 2020Larry Krasner in Philadelphia, Kim Foxx in Chicago, and Chesa Boudin in San Francisco, among many others. So, Mosby had to look to an earlier generation of prosecutors, like Kamala Harris, as role models. She touted the benefits of a diversionary program for first time, nonviolent offenders that Harris implemented as the district attorney in San Francisco. Mosby also talked about trying a community prosecution model, which involved assigning prosecutors to specific geographic areas to better cultivate trust with residents. She traveled around the country, visiting with other district attorneys to get ideas for how to improve her office. I honestly believe that Im following my passion, which has always been to reform the criminal justice system, she told Baltimore magazine in January 2015.

But her failures in the Gray cases made her a high-profile target of Donald Trump, other prominent right-wing political figures, and law enforcement around the country. She talked of receiving racist hate mail and death threats at her office and home. In October 2015, she was the subject of a cover story headlined The Wolf That Lurks for the Sergeants Benevolent Associations magazine. The cops were not on her side.

That was to be expected. But by the time the New York Times Magazine profiled her in September 2016, Mosby already seemed to be wilting under the unforgiving spotlight. In the profile, critics bemoaned several tactical errors committed by her office during the trials. She countered that Baltimore police never seriously pursued the possibility of wrongdoing by the cops and showed little enthusiasm for her investigations. Mosby also accused the police commissioner and mayor of misinforming the public about the case, showing her isolation among city leaders.

That profile also seemed to expose growing friction between her and her husband, Nick, who suffered through several embarrassing pollsmostly in the single digitsbefore abandoning his mayoral campaign earlier that year.

Compounding her troubles, five of the six officers charged by Mosby in Grays death sued her for malicious false arrest, false imprisonment, and defamation, among other claims. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals later ruled in 2018 that she was protected by absolute prosecutorial immunity, but it still left Mosby feeling under siege.

Times writer Wil Hylton closed his profile by pointing out that Mosby had lost quite a bit in trying those cases. It sometimes seemed as if the only public figure who had really suffered for [Grays] death, who put her career and private life on the line, whether right or wrong, the elected official who paid the highest price was the one who set out to make sure someone did, he wrote.

In Mosbys reelection campaign in 2018, she once again faced questions about her record and legal strategy during the Freddie Gray trials. And now she had to defend her record amid a soaring local murder ratethe Washington Post said Baltimore had the greatest raw number increase in killings of any city other than Chicago.

Mosby countered by saying her staff had a felony conviction rate of 92 percent and that, true to her previous campaign promises, her office had made a priority of going after repeat offenders.

Still bolstered by the support of Baltimoreans who admired her courage in going after the police, Mosby won with 50 percent of the vote. If the Baltimore city police doesnt like her for charging their officers, then shes definitely my candidate, one voter told the Washington Post.

This time, Mosby was catching the wave of the broader national leftward shift among big-city prosecutors. She tried to build on the public trust in her office: She stopped pursuing charges against people for marijuana possession in 2019 and expanded that approach the next year to drug possession, prostitution, minor traffic violations, and other low-level offenses. One reason she gave for her efforts was to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Baltimore jails.

Bolstered by declining crime rates, Mosby said that experiment was going to become permanent. Clearly, the data suggest there is no public safety value in prosecuting low-level offenses, she said in March 2021.

As she made these changes, Mosby also faced accusations that she was too often out of town, on lavish trips sponsored by nonprofits and other groups, where she researched other countries and cities approaches to crime and prisons. The local online news site Baltimore Brew reported that from 2018 to 2019, none of Marylands other 23 county states attorneys reported any similar reimbursed travel. Mosby called on inspector general Isabel Mercedes Cumming to investigate in July 2020, hoping to exonerate herself with some transparency. The people of Baltimore have endured far too many corruption scandals and need to know what is and is not illegal, she wrote in her request to Cumming.

Depending on who you are, Cummings investigation uncovered, in the most generous interpretation, sloppy recordkeeping, or deliberate deception, if you were inclined to believe Mosby was using her office to enrich herself. The IGs report found that Mosby established three different businesses in 2019, including a travel agency targeted to underserved Black families, which the IG concluded served mostly to write off federal tax expenses.

After the investigation was completed, Cumming forwarded it with business and tax concerns to the FBI. This is what opened up Mosby to a review of her financial records, leading to an indictment by a federal grand jury in January 2022. Federal prosecutors accused Mosby of falsely claiming that she suffered adverse financial consequence that would allow her to withdraw $90,000 from a retirement account under the CARES Act, which was passed in March 2020 to help people who were employed but could no longer afford contributions to those accounts. Mosby used that money not for necessary living expenses, but to buy a home in Kissimmee, Florida, and a condominium in Longboat Key, Florida.

In the indictment, prosecutors said, Rather than experiencing a reduction in income in 2020, Mosbys gross salary in 2020 increased over her gross salary in 2019, which was $238,772.04. Prosecutors also claimed that Mosby made false statements on the loan applications for the properties in Florida.

Mosbys attorneys countered that, The prosecution  has been driven by malicious personal, political, and even racial animus on the part of the prosecutors and accused them of preventing her from testifying before the grand jury that ultimately returned the indictment. Not only did the Government fail to respond to this demand (and did not allow her to testify), it did not even take the offer seriously, her attorneys wrote in a motion to dismiss the indictment.

In spite of her protests, Mosby was found guilty of two counts of perjury in November and again in February on a charge of making a false mortgage application. Ms. Mosbys conduct undermines the confidence the public deserves to have in their government officials, acting Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock of the FBIs Baltimore Field Office said in a statement.

Despite facing indictment throughout 2022, Mosby still attempted to run for reelection to a third term. She finished third in the Democratic primary. Just like that, Mosby had been drummed out of political officeat the same time that many of her progressive prosecutor peers around the country were also losing their races.

Like I said before, what you think of what happened to Marilyn Mosby and her sparkling career prospects depends on a lot of thingshow much you liked her in the first place, how much you agree with her vision of police reform, what your standards are for politicians to behave perfectly. What I will say is that while Im not sure she was blameless, I think a strong case can be made that were it not for the specifically strict scrutiny her prosecution of those cops brought her, no one would have gone digging for what she did with her retirement fund or how she bought her vacation homes. And I think the cause of that scrutiny matters.

Carl Rowan had this great line: He said, Black officials have to be purer than Caesars wife, Musgrove said, quoting the late Black journalist who once appeared on President Richard Nixons enemies list. And if not, someone is going to get them.

Musgrove called it harassment ideology, a term he gives to the organized efforts to weaken and even unseat Black political leadership in the postcivil rights era.

Musgroves book gave a name to the nagging suspicion Ive had dating back to my days covering City Hall in Shreveport, Louisiana. It first started when I began covering a Black city councilman there whod spent a year in federal prison for accepting a bribe in the 1990s. He insisted that he was set up, and that hed only done what hed seen his white counterparts do themselves.

Mosby and supporters havent shied away from this same argument on the media tour shes been on over the past month, sharing her fall from grace with the likes of Roland Martin and Charlamagne tha God.

Something like this goes beyond Marilyn Mosby, Mosby said on The ReidOut. If they can do this to Marilyn Mosby, who had the audacity to challenge the status quo, they can do this to anybody.

Theres something to that. All around the country, Republican-led backlash against progressive prosecutors has been gaining more support. In many ways, it was perhaps inevitable, especially with the U.S. murder rate making its largest single-year increase in more than a century, from 2019 to 2020. Tough-on-crime messages are now back in fashion, and conservatives have seized the moment.

In Los Angeles, there have been two attempts to recall District Attorney George Gascon. A similar recall effort in San Francisco unseated Boudin. In Philadelphia, the GOP-led state House in Pennsylvania attemptedand ultimately failedto impeach Krasner. In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended two prosecutors, including a Democrat who was the only Black woman serving as a local prosecutor in Florida.

Look what happened to those people. Recalls. Really well-funded challenges. Defeats. Prosecutions, said Musgrove, whos written and lectured extensively about the tradition of systemic harassment of Black public officials. What youre really talking about is an interracial group of reform DAs, who, the moment that popular pressure in the street eased up, got punched in the mouth.

Given that landscape, its not much of a surprise that Mosby eventually found herself in legal and political peril. Her personal life has also taken a toll: She and Nick Mosby announced they would be getting divorced last summer. When I heard that, I couldnt help but think back to the public stressors that the New York Times Magazine highlighted as putting pressure on the Mosby union. The government is not happy with the dissolution of my marriage, the dissolution of my political career, but theyre still coming after me, Mosby said on the Roland Martin Unfiltered show.

In recent months, Mosby has turned to the old fan base that still remembers her as the swashbuckling prosecutor who dared to take on Baltimores crooked cops. Shes collected more than $46,000 from an online fundraiser. Shes gathered more than 79,000 signatures on a petition asking for a pardon from the Biden administration. Shes visited news shows targeted at Black audiences, a smart play in a year when Biden will need their robust support in whats sure to be a tight presidential election. But in the most basic sense, Mosby was just trying to stay out of jail and keep her house. After her sentencing hearing Thursday, in a grim bit of irony, Mosby addressed the media and her supporters outside of the courthouse. [God] has touched the heart of this judge and allowed me to go home to my babies, she said.

Through a representative, I asked Mosby if there was anything to learn about the difficulty of police reform from her plight, if its still a reasonable goal in this hostile political climate.

She responded with the following statement: Yes, its possible if we, as a community, understood the power to set the agenda for our vote in an election year. The fact that Donald Trump has come out and stated that he has every intention to allow police officers to kill (us) with impunity, should be our call to action but unfortunately, its not. Police and justice reform must be at the top of the agenda for Black people in this country.

Hers was a surprisingly hopeful tone, an echo of the young prosecutor I once watched give that speech on those steps. I just wonder how many more like her will be willing to carry on this struggle. After all, they can see what it cost her.
Red substance in Perrydale area ditches after barn fire cant be identified

An unknown red substance is flowing through drainage ditches following a fire at 7560 Perrydale Loop.

State and federal environmental agencies have been unable to determine what has been flowing through drainage ditches in the Perrydale area since a barn fire May 2.

On May 6, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality warned residents to keep themselves, pets and livestock away from the ditches while the U.S. Department of Environmental Quality conducted tests on the unknown red substance.

Those tests since have shown typical concentrations of pesticides and metals, no organochloride pesticides and low levels of petroleum that are typical of roadside ditches.

The results also showed low or no levels of volatile organic compounds and semi-volatile organic compounds, DEQ said late Wednesday.

"The cause of the red discoloration remains unknown," DEQ spokesman Dylan Darling said.

The EPA still must validate the test results before they are considered final, Darling said.

In the meantime, people still should use caution if they or their pets or livestock are likely to come into contact with discolored water in the area, he said.

Because of the drier weather, there has not been as much water in the ditches recently, Darling said.

Multiple agencies responded to a three-alarm barn fire Thursday night in Amity, including crews from SW Polk Fire District.

The three-alarm fire took place at 7560 Perrydale Loop in the unincorporated community of Perrydale in Polk County. The property has an Amity address.

Discolored water began flowing from the property into drainage ditches toward nearby Ash Swale.

DEQ still is investigating whether any environmental cleanup will be needed at the site of the fire.

Tracy Loew covers the environment at the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips: tloew@statesmanjournal.com or 503-399-6779. Follow her on Twitter at @Tracy_Loew

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Red substance in rural Oregon ditches cant be identified
Representatives from the San Francisco Bay Area in the United States attending a cities cooperation event in Chongqing, China, have shown interest in enhancing collaboration with China. #GLOBALink








Redding City Councilor Michael Dacquisto will retire next month. He was reelected in 2022

Redding City Councilman Michael Dacquisto  who has sparred with the council's majority in recent months  is retiring with more than two years left on his term.

Dacquisto posted on Facebook that he has a medical condition that requires him to step down to reduce stress and spend more time with his family.

His retirement is effective June 30.

Dacquisto told the Record Searchlight he was diagnosed with the medical condition about a year ago. He declined to reveal the condition.

City Clerk Pam Mize gives the oath of office to new Redding City Council member Michael Dacquisto, right, in December 2022.

Life is too short. I am 70 years old and need to move forward and spend time with friends, family, grandkids and not the city council, he said.

The government code states the council must within 60 days of Dacquisto vacating the seat either fill it by appointment or by calling for a special election. The special election would have to be held on the next regularly established election date, which is Nov. 5.

Dacquisto said if the council appoints his successor, he hopes it will be someone who shares his values and represents all Redding residents.

Dacquisto was elected to a second term in November 2022 and was the highest vote-getter in the council race that year. His terms run through 2026.

Council seats held by Vice Mayor Julie Winter and Mark Mezzano also will be on the ballot this November.

The filing period to run for Redding City Council starts July 15.

Mayor Tenessa Audette is running for the California Assembly, so if she wins in November, her seat would be vacated.

In recent months, Dacquisto has butted heads with the councils majority  Audette, Winter and Mayor Pro Tempore Jack Munns.

In December, Dacquisto ripped the council for voting Audette as mayor and called it the "Bethel juggernaut at work." Audette, Munns and Winter voted in the majority, passing over then-Vice Mayor Mezzano, who was next in line to be mayor.

Audette, Munns and Winter attend Bethel, a Redding megachurch with a membership that equates to about 10% of Reddings population. Some in the community have expressed concerns that the church wields too much political influence.

Then in April, Dacquisto and Mezzano got into it with Audette and Winter, who attempted to dismiss Redding Planning Commission Chairman Aaron Hatch from a citizens' advisory group.

Both Dacquisto and Mezzano defended Hatch and his work on the commission.

The political battle boiled over to the May 7 council meeting as Hatch kept his job following an outpouring of support at the meeting from North State tribal leaders, influential community leaders and activists, educators and planning professionals.

In a statement he posted on Facebook, Dacquisto said, in part, that he hopes his successor will support a long-term lease for the Redding Rodeo Grounds.

The rodeo grounds, located behind the Redding Civic Auditorium, is part of the city's riverfront specific plan. Dacquisto and Mezzano are the only ones on the council who support giving the rodeo a 75-year extension on its lease, which they said removes doubt about its inclusion in the riverfront update.

David Benda covers business, development and anything else that comes up for the USA TODAY Network in Redding. He also writes the weekly "Buzz on the Street" column. Hes part of a team of dedicated reporters that investigate wrongdoing, cover breaking news and tell other stories about your community. Reach him on X, formerly Twitter @DavidBenda_RS or by phone at 530-338-8323. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Redding councilmember Dacquisto will retire June 30
New refinery to produce millions of gallons of sustainable jet fuel: 'Aviation fuels that actually have a future'

Sustainable aviation fuel company LanzaJet recently opened a new refinery in Georgia, where it will create 9 million gallons of alternative fuel per year once at full capacity, Canary Media reported.

The aviation industry is responsible for around 2% of global energy-related carbon dioxide pollution, and it is not on track to meet the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, according to the International Energy Agency. This is due to the industry's reliance on dirty energy to power its planes.

To combat this problem, companies like LanzaJet are developing alternatives called sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) out of substances like biomass and hydrogen. LanzaJet's SAF is made using ethanol, also known as grain alcohol.

However, while using SAFs creates less planet-overheating pollution than traditional petroleum-based gas or oil, they are not the perfect source of clean energy. The processes used to create them are often highly energy-intensive and create large amounts of air pollution.

When ethanol is made using corn (which is most common in the United States) or sugarcane (most common in Brazil), indirect effects  such as clearing forests for crops  could produce too much pollution to be considered planet-friendly.

LanzaJet said that its Georgia operation, called the Freedom Pines Fuels facility, will use "low-carbon-intensity" ethanol, with sources such as corn and municipal solid waste. The company has also received federal approval to use sugarcane.

Pedro Piris-Cabezas, the lead SAF expert for the Environmental Defense Fund, explained that it is not enough just to produce alternative fuels  the fuels must be made sustainably.

"How we produce the fuels is critical," Piris-Cabezas said. "The details matter."

Ultimately, the goal of the government's oversight of the industry should be to "ensure we channel public resources toward truly sustainable aviation fuels that actually have a future, in terms of decarbonizing aviation over the long run," he said.

Now the industry appears one step closer to making this vision a reality.

Jennifer Holmgren, the board chair of LanzaJet, said in a statement cited by Canary Media that the refinery is "proof of the energy transition accelerating in real time."

Just last year, the first dirty fuel-free commercial transatlantic flight was a success. In that instance, the SAF used was a combination of cooking oil, animal fat, and a synthetic aromatic kerosene from waste corn.

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WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The Washington County, Tennessee Sheriffs Office (WCSO) will host its second annual CHAMP Camp on July 9.

The kids who attended last year had almost as much fun as the Deputies that led the activities, Lt. Kevin Sanders, who organizes the event, said in a release. Theyll meet our K-9s, learn about criminal investigations, get to see our SWAT teams equipment and drive through a safety course with one of our driving instructors.

Copperhead Road Music Fest, Wetlands opening, K-9 fundraiser and more | Weekend events in the Tri-Cities

The camp is designed for rising sixth, seventh and eighth graders and is limited to 60 students.

Registration for the free camp is open and closes on June 7 at 5 p.m.

Community members interested in supporting the event can make donations to the Friends of the Washington County Sheriffs Office.

For more information or to download an application, click here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  The fake threat that shut down Godfrey-Lee Public Schools for a day was prompted by a dating app meetup that went sour and a conflict over a hat and chair, according to a Wyoming Police Department report.

Nikole Pipoly, 28, is charged with filing a false police report in the incident that prompted Godfrey-Lee to close down for the day on Monday, May 13.

A booking photo of Nikole Pipoly from the Kent County Correctional Facility.

Woman charged in threat that closed Godfrey-Lee district

Her attorney, Damian Nunzio, declined an interview but told Target 8 that his client is innocent of the charges.

Pipoly, who is a licensed social worker, was employed by the Family Outreach Center in Grand Rapids but worked as a clinician on a contract basis in one of Godfrey-Lees elementary schools.

The Family Outreach Center told Target 8 that Pipoly is no longer employed there.

Godfrey-Lee Public Schools: Reported threat was not credible

In the police report obtained by Target 8, a Wyoming police officer summarized Pipolys initial claim that a man shed met on a dating app was threatening to shoot up the school.

Nikole Pipoly was threatened by Nicholas Surman via phone call, the officer wrote of Pipolys allegation, which was later deemed false. Nicholas told Nikole he was going to rape her and come shoot up Godfrey-Lee tomorrow (5/13/2024) if he did not receive his hat back.

Wyoming police found no evidence that Surman made any threats at all and noted that Pipolys statement changed from her initial claim.

Surman himself sat down with Target 8, calling the whole ordeal one of the craziest, most bizarre things hes ever experienced.

Nick Surman.

I dont understand it, Surman said. I still dont. It doesnt make any sense to me whatsoever  the thought process behind why she took things to the level she took them, because this is somebody that I only met one time, that I spent a couple hours with. I dont know her.

It started, said Surman, when the two connected on the dating app Hinge, and Pipoly invited Surman to a gathering on the porch of her Grand Rapids home.

Surman said at one point in the evening, Pipoly took his Supreme brand hat, and he ended up leaving it at her home.

Nick Surmans hat.

He said over the next couple days, he tried repeatedly to connect with Pipoly to retrieve his hat  with no luck.

Talked with a couple buddies, recalled Surman, and Im like, Well, shes got an expensive hat of mine. It might be funny to go over and grab a chair.'

Surman recorded himself approaching Pipolys door a few days after the porch party and pushing her Ring doorbell.

I dont know if you can hear me, Surman said when Pipoly did not answer the door. But I need to borrow a chair. So, I guess when you need the chair back  you can come over and bring me the hat  so, thank you.

Surman told Target 8 he figured theyd make the exchange and that would be the end of it.

(Or) if we end up dating and getting married, its a good story to tell our kids one day if nothing else, Surman said.

Instead, Pipoly contacted Grand Rapids police and reported Surman had stolen her chair.

Then, according to the Wyoming police report, Pipoly told a friend and coworker at Godfrey-Lee that Nicholas had threatened to come to the school and shoot her if he did not get his hat back.

Later, when Pipoly denied telling police Surman had threatened to shoot up the school, a detective confronted her with an earlier text exchange between Pipoly and the first responding officer.

I then asked Nikole if she remembered the text conversation between her and Ofc. Klaassen and she stated, Yes,' wrote the investigator. I read the text conversation out loud to Nikole. Ofc. Klaassen said, Do you have any video or recordings of (Surman) saying he is going to shoot up the school? Nicole responded, Unfortunately no, that was on the phone.'

But police said they analyzed Surmans phone and found no record such a phone call ever occurred.

Wyoming police closed out the case, but Surman wanted to hold Pipoly accountable for her allegedly false claims.

Nicholas came to the Wyoming Police Department and advised that he wanted to press charges against Nikole for making a false report of a terroristic threat, wrote the detective on the case.

After further investigation, Wyoming police turned the case over to Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker, and he authorized a misdemeanor charge of filing a false police report against Pipoly.

If convicted, Pipoly would face up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.

This is a very serious thing that she did. I want people to know you cannot go and make false accusations against another individual. When that kind of thing happens, somebody needs to be held responsible, especially when its involving hundreds of innocent families, Surman said, referring to the closing of Godfrey-Lee for a day. Hundreds of families had to take a last-minute day off basically to stay home with their children for a falsified threat.

Surman believes Pipoly also had him banned from Hinge and Tinder.

Ive never had any problems on the dating apps, he said. And honestly, if thats the kind of person youre going to meet on the dating apps, then Im probably better off not being on there. So, anyone I was talking to on the dating apps, I apologized that I disappeared. That is why.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker said Friday that his heart is broken in a thousand pieces after his daughter and son-in-law were taken hostage then later killed by a gang in Haiti.

Natalie and Davy Lloyd were among a group of missionaries who were ambushed as they left a church on Thursday, the nonprofit Missions in Haiti Inc. wrote on Facebook.

A gang of 3 trucks full of guys whisked the group away, the nonprofit, which is run by Davys parents, David and Alicia Lloyd, wrote in a frantic Facebook post calling for urgent prayers.

Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left. Another gang came after to see what was going on and if they could help, so they say. No one understood what they were doing, not sure what took place but one was shot and killed and now this gang went into full attack mode.

Davy and Natalie tried to use an internet connection to call Davys parents, the nonprofits post continued. So they are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot, the post added. Their lives are in danger. I have been trying all my contacts to get a police armored car there to evacuate them out to safety but cant get anyone to do. I also am trying to negotiate with the gang so how much $ to stand down and let them leave and get to safety. PLEASE PRAY- Going to be a long night. The phones have all died I cant get a hold of anybody for the past several hours now to know what was going on.

However, a follow-up post three hours later said, Davy and Natalie and Jude were shot and killed by the gang about 9 oclock this evening.

Baker wrote on Facebook that he had never felt this kind of pain.

Violence has reached fever pitch in Haiti in the weeks since a new prime minister was announced last month, and kidnappings of missionaries and other foreigners are extremely common.

But just two weeks ago, Missions in Haiti said they felt the situation was stabilizing as the U.S. military sent personnel and equipment, and a Kenya-led international force was slated to arrive later in May.

It may be the worst is behind us now and better days ahead, the group wrote on Facebook. We are believing this is the case and Haiti is coming out of this dark time.

Five days ago, the group said things had calmed down even further. Gang activity still happening with looting and destruction, but much less then before, they wrote. ...For the past 2 weeks we have watched US military planes fly over several times a day. They are flying in equipment and supplies for the international force that is coming. It is reported the first 200 troops from Kenya are to land this week. Some gangs are realizing their rule is about to come to an end. 3 gang guys that come to the bakery for bread a couple times a week, I asked them what their plans are. They said run to the Dominican Republic when the fighting starts.

Former President Donald Trump called the deaths a tragedy in a post on Truth Social. God bless Davy and Natalie. Such a tragedy. Haiti is totally out of control. Find the killers NOW!!!, he wrote.

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Monae Johnson waves to supporters after winning the Secretary of State seat on Tuesday evening, November 8, 2022, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Sioux Falls.

A top Republican state official has run afoul of anti-abortion groups after labeling their recent phone operation a scam.

The controversy started May 13 with a news release from South Dakota Secretary of State Monae Johnson, who oversees elections. The release warned about phone calls from people who allegedly claimed to work for her office.

The callers were contacting people who had signed a petition to place an abortion-rights measure on the ballot in the Nov. 5 election. The phone operation was part of a coordinated attempt to gather information for a legal challenge to the petition, and to inform people that they could withdraw their signatures.

Johnsons news release said callers were impersonating her staff and trying to pressure voters into asking that their name be removed from the petitions. The release included a quote from Johnson: Citizens in South Dakota, by law, have the right to petition and people like these scammers are eroding public trust in the election process, she said.

Johnson asked Attorney General Marty Jackley, a fellow Republican, to look into the calls. He announced one day later that no laws were broken, and subsequently told South Dakota Searchlight that callers did not impersonate anyone or claim to work for the secretary of state.

Irreversible damage alleged

The episode angered state Rep. Jon Hansen, R-Dell Rapids, who was involved in the phone operation. He is the vice president of the board of South Dakota Right to Life and co-chair of the Life Defense Fund.

By labeling our lawful activity as a scam, Secretary of State Johnson has done significant and irreversible damage to the pro-life movement in South Dakota, Hansen said in a statement to Searchlight.

Rep. John Hansen, R-Dell Rapids, speaks about HB 1080, the Help, Not Harm Act, which would restrict gender affirming care for children at the Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 17, 2023.

Johnson did not answer Searchlights request for a response to Hansens comment. She was elected in November 2022 after convincing delegates to the state Republican convention earlier that year to nominate her instead of the incumbent secretary of state, Steve Barnett.

Johnsons news release labeling anti-abortion activists efforts a scam could be a problem for her political future if it proves to be a burr in the pro-life movements saddle, said Lisa Hager, associate professor of political science at South Dakota State University.

The ballot measure would amend the state constitution to include abortion rights. Hager said if a legal challenge removes the measure from the ballot, or if it makes the ballot and voters reject it, Johnsons news release could end up being a blip on the radar.

A lot of what happens with this probably hinges on what happens with the abortion amendment, Hager said.

Jackley explains findings

Jackley said in an interview with South Dakota Searchlight that two state laws are relevant to the phone-call controversy.

One law says falsely pretending to be a public official is a crime. Although the Secretary of States Office said callers were impersonating the offices staff, Jackley said that wasnt the case. He said callers read a script identifying themselves as volunteers for a group that obtained information about petition signers from the Secretary of States Office.

Nobody called and said they were with the secretary of state, Jackley said. There was no impersonation.

He said some people may have mistakenly thought the callers were public officials, but there is no evidence the callers deliberately created that impression.

Could they have been reading the script too fast? Jackley said. Possibly.

Hansen provided South Dakota Searchlight a copy of the script used by callers. It said, in part, Im a local volunteer with the South Dakota Petition Integrity Committee which is an organization registered with the South Dakota Secretary of State and staffed by local volunteers.

South Dakota Petition Integrity is a political action committee that Hansen registered on May 13, the same day Johnson issued her press release.

Another state law says its a crime to impersonate a public official while injuring or defrauding someone.

We have to prove both, Jackley said, adding that no impersonation occurred, and there is no evidence anyone was tricked into removing their signature, nor that any other legal damages occurred.

Challenge to petition expected

Dakotans for Health is the ballot question committee supporting the abortion-rights amendment. The groups lawyer, Jim Leach, declined to comment on the lack of criminal charges against the phone operation because were about to be sued by Life Defense Fund.

Life Defense Fund, a ballot question committee organized to defeat the ballot measure, has already said it will challenge the validity of petition signatures. People associated with the committee have alleged some petition signers were duped into believing they were signing a petition to repeal the state sales tax on groceries, when they were actually signing the abortion-rights petition. Dakotans for Health circulated both petitions.

Republican legislators laid part of the groundwork for a legal challenge by passing a bill in March allowing people to withdraw their petition signatures.

Hansen, who was a prime sponsor of that bill, said the phone campaign was part of the independent research into the validity of the petition signatures that is a requirement upon us to bring our challenge under South Dakota law.

The Secretary of States Office has since announced that the abortion-rights petition had enough signatures from registered voters to be placed on the ballot. That triggered a 30-day window in which opponents can challenge the petitions validity. Hansen and his Life Defense Fund co-chair said theyll file a challenge at the appropriate time.

Abortions are currently banned in the state, except to preserve the life of the pregnant female. The ballot measure, if approved by voters, would legalize abortions in the first trimester of pregnancy but allow the state to impose limited regulations in the second trimester and a ban in the third trimester, with exceptions for the life and health of the mother.

Dakotans for Health Chairman Rick Weiland described the phone campaign as unethical.

We knew all this would happen once that signature removal bill passed, Weiland said. They did and continue to misrepresent the ballot measure.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Republican runs afoul of anti-abortion groups after labeling calls a scam
Two canoes carrying four individuals went over Curtain Falls in the Boundary Waters Area on May 18, 2024.

As the search for two missing canoeists in Minnesota hits a week, the Minnesota National Guard has been deployed to help locate them in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, near the Canada border.

Governor Tim Walz on Thursday authorized the Minnesota National Guard to assist the St. Louis County Sheriff in searching and rescuing the two canoeists who went missing on May 18 near Curtain Falls.

The Minnesota National Guard will provide a CH-47 (Chinook) helicopter and four crew members for the rescue operation in the BWCA, said the governor's office. They will also help in providing "lift assets to transport a boat and additional equipment" to the area. The sheriff's office had requested assistance from the Minnesota National Guard as Curtain Falls is "extremely difficult to access," making it challenging to transport "equipment, supplies, and personnel in and out of the backcountry."

No one expects their vacation to turn to crisis," Governor Walz said in a statement. "Yet, when four canoeists went over Curtain Falls in the BWCA, this became a reality.

My family is intimately familiar with the fear and heartbreak these canoeists are feeling. We are praying for those involved and immensely grateful to everyone from the Sheriffs office to the National Guard who are supporting this mission," his statement added.

Walz's own brother, Craig Walz, was killed during a storm in the Boundary Waters Area while on a trip with his son in June 2016, according to CBS News.

Dozen crew members on ground

A rescue official wears a head net to deter blackflies as he flies the ROV from the Canadian side to locate two missing canoeists in Iron Lake.

The St. Louis County Sheriff's Office, in an update Friday, said that a camp had been established to "support the search efforts as personnel will be spending the majority of the weekend conducting shoreline, water, and ROV searches," despite difficult weather and rise in water levels.

"Over a dozen crew members are on the ground at the search area," said the sheriff's office, "with several others supporting in air operations and command posts."

The sheriff's office said assistance from various agencies, including the Minnesota National Guard along with good weather, helped rescuers transport equipment and personnel to the search area Thursday, which will aid in locating the missing canoeists.

Canoeists went missing last weekend

Two canoes carrying four individuals had gone over Curtain Falls last Saturday, the St. Louis Co Sheriff's Office said in a news release Sunday.

Authorities said that they received reports of a "water emergency on Iron Lake in the BWCA" shortly before 7:30 p.m. on May 18.

"The caller reported 2 canoes had gone over Curtain Falls during the incident, one party was badly injured and two individuals were missing," the sheriff's office said.

A rescue operation was launched to retrieve the individuals and around 12:30 a.m., the next day, and a helicopter extracted one of the injured individuals and another injured person. The injured person was flown to a hospital with "serious but not life-threatening injuries."

The search efforts for the other canoeists continued the next day. While the missing canoeists were not located, a fifth individual who was with the group, but not involved in the incident, was flown out of the wilderness.

The search mission for the two missing canoeists continued into the week but was temporarily halted Wednesday due to bad weather before resuming Thursday.

Iron Lake and its surrounding area remains closed for the public, a spokesperson of the St. Louis County Sheriff's office said Friday. The St. Louis County Rescue Squad, though on Tuesday, had said that they intend to reopen the lake as "long as paddlers don't interfere with aircraft operations (which happened before the closure went up), and people stay away from the active search area."

The two missing canoeists have been identified as Jesse Melvin Haugen, 41 of Cambridge, Minnesota and Reis Melvin Grams, 40, of Lino Lakes, Minnesota.

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62-year-old canoeist died earlier this month

Earlier in May, a 62-year-old man was found deceased in Lake Agnes in the BWCA. A capsized canoe was also located near the body, said the St. Louis County Sheriffs Office, adding that a life jacket was also located on scene, "but was not worn by the victim."

Investigators later learned that the victim was on a solo camping trip in the area. An investigation into the cause of death is underway.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is located about 250 miles north of Minneapolis and covers an area of more than 1-million acres, with 1,200 miles of canoe routes, according to U.S. Forest Service.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X @saman_shafiq7.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No trace of canoeists who went missing near Curtain Falls in Minnesota
New research could help predict the next solar flare

Newly published research could help predict when there will be "powerful solar storms."

According to Northwestern's McCormick School of Engineering, an international team of researchers found that the suns magnetic field starts around 20,000 miles below its surface. Previously, the magnetic field was thought to have originated 130,000 miles below its surface.

According to NASA, the sun's magnetic field is created by a magnetic dynamo that is inside of it. This study aimed to prove that the dynamo actually begins near the sun's surface. Researchers hope that a better understanding of the sun's dynamo could help predict future solar flares.

This work proposes a new hypothesis for how the suns magnetic field is generated that better matches solar observations, and, we hope, could be used to make better predictions of solar activity," said the study's co-author Daniel Lecoanet, an assistant professor of engineering sciences and applied mathematics, researcher at the McCormick School of Engineering and a member of the Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics.

This image shows a solar flare, the bright flash of light on the right side of the sun, on Tuesday. The sun produced its biggest flare in nearly a decade Tuesday, just days after a severe solar storm pummeled Earth and created dazzling northern lights in places where auroras are not typically visible.

It's an age-old question that astronomer Galileo Galilei tried to answer, but hundreds of years later, researchers say they found the answer and published the findings in the journal, Nature.

Understanding the origin of the suns magnetic field has been an open question since Galileo and is important for predicting future solar activity, like flares that could hit the Earth, Lecoanet said.

What is a solar flare?

A solar flare is an explosion of radiation that is produced by the sun and can result in solar storms

Recently, the same powerful solar storm that created the bewildering Northern Lights seen across North America, affected farmers' equipment at the height of planting season. Machines and tools that rely on GPS, like tractors, glitched and struggled with navigational issues.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also warned that it could disrupt communications.

Pretty and damaging

While solar flares can cause phenomena such as the aurora borealis that captured attention at the beginning of May, they can cause a lot of damage, too. This is why it's important for researchers to be able to predict when they will hit.

"Although this months strong solar storms released beautiful, extended views of the Northern Lights, similar storms can cause intense destruction," said the school in a statement.

According to the university, solar flares can damage the following:

Earth-orbiting satellites

Electricity grids

Radio communications.

How was it calculated?

For their study, researchers ran complex calculations on a NASA supercomputer to discover where the magnetic field is generated.

To figure out where these flares originated, researchers developed "state-of-the-art numerical simulations to model the suns magnetic field," states the school.

This new model now takes torsional oscillations into account. It correlates with magnetic activity and is a phenomenon in the sun "in which the solar rotation is periodically sped up or slowed down in certain zones of latitude while elsewhere the rotation remains essentially steady," states a different study.

The sun is super active

The sun is at its solar maximum, meaning it is reaching the height of its 11-year cycle and is at the highest rate of solar activity.

Folks can expect to see more solar flares and solar activity, including solar storms.

Contributing: Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or follow her on X, formerly Twitter, Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When's the next solar flare? New research could help predict that
New restaurant opens in downtown Sacramento, replacing Loyal Legion beer hall. What to know

A new restaurant is opening in downtown Sacramento, replacing Loyal Legion beer hall.

Citizen Capitol Craft House will celebrate its grand opening at 1201 J St. at 5 p.m. Friday, according to its social media post.

The pub will serve beer, wine, craft cocktails and food.

Loyal Legion officially closed in September 2023 after nearly a year in business.

Whats on the menu at new downtown Sacramento restaurant?

Along with beer and wine, Citizen Capitol Craft House will also serve handcrafted cocktails and cocktails on tap, according to its website.

Drink offerings include the Even Angels Go Bald, made with Angels Envy bourbon, Carpano Antica vermouth, Benedictine herbal liqueur, bitters and cherry wood smoke, and the Humming Bird, a cocktail with strawberry-infused Fords gin, Aperol, Campari and Dolin sweet vermouth.

The menu also has food options.

Guests can choose from small bites and appetizers including hot honey popcorn, salads, steak tartare and a cheese board.

Entrees include smoked Australian wagyu brisket and a quarter-pound smash burger.

When are Citizen Capitol Craft House open hours?

Citizen Capitol Craft House is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

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.
BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- China has objected to the Taiwan region's participation in the upcoming World Health Assembly (WHA) and this decision has been widely understood and supported by the international community, foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Friday.

Noting that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, Wang said China's position on the Taiwan region's participation in the activities of international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), is consistent and clear.

"That is, the issue must be handled under the one-China principle, which is also a fundamental principle endorsed in the UNGA (United Nations General Assembly) Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1," Wang told a press briefing.

He pointed out that from 2009 to 2016, due to the fact that both sides of the Taiwan Strait adhered to the one-China principle, China made special arrangements for the Taiwan region to participate in the WHA for eight consecutive years.

However, after the Democratic Progressive Party came to power in Taiwan in 2016, it has refused to recognize the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China principle, and has stubbornly stuck to the separatist position of "Taiwan independence."

"This means the political foundation for the Taiwan region to participate in the WHA no longer exists," Wang said.

In order to safeguard the one-China principle and the seriousness and authority of the relevant resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the WHA, China decided not to agree to the Taiwan region's participation in this year's WHA, which has been widely understood and supported by the international community, the spokesperson said.

He added that for some time, the vast majority of countries have reaffirmed their commitment to UNGA Resolution 2758 and the one-China principle, and opposed the Taiwan region's participation in the WHA.

More than 100 countries have supported China's position by sending letters to the Director-General of the WHO, he said.

This once again shows that the one-China principle is where global opinion trends and the arc of history bends, and it also fully reflects that the vast majority of countries uphold a just position on Taiwan-related issues at the WHA, Wang said.

Any attempt to violate the one-China principle and engage in political manipulation by playing the "Taiwan card" is doomed to failure, he said. 
A $25,000 reward is being offered by a Hispanic civil rights volunteer organization to anyone who has information about the recent death of a decorated Fort Campbell solider.

On Thursday, the League of United Latin American Citizens announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the death of Fort Campbell solider Katia Duenas-Aguilar.

Katia Duenas-Aguilar, 23, was a soldier at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. She joined the Army in 2018 at Fort Eisenhower, Georgia before moving to Fort Campbell in 2019.

"As we did in the case of Vanessa Guillen, who was murdered in 2020, LULAC offered a $25,000 reward that brought the case to the nation's attention, said LULAC National President Domingo Garcia.

We will not rest, nor will we let the investigation into the killing of this Army soldier go cold. Our military service members must know that we stand with them and that their safety in the ranks is now the law thanks to the Vanessa Guillen Act that we fought to get passed and won.

On May 18, Clarksville Police Department responded to a call on Tiny Town Road where Katia Duenas-Aguilar was found and pronounced dead.

The investigation is now being investigated by the Clarksville Police Homicide Unit.

The police department has not released any details about Aguilar's death, including how or when she died, though they said it appears to be a "shooting" in a previous media release.

Aguilar, 23, of Mesquite, Texas, enlisted in the Army is 2018 and completed her basic training at Fort Eisenhower, Georgia. In 2019, she stationed at Fort Campbell.

Aguilars awards and commendations included two Army Achievement Medals, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon, Fort Campbell said in release.

"LULAC is in touch with the victim's family, to whom we send our deepest condolences," Garcia stated.

"We want them and our community to know that LULAC is on watch and is urging anyone with information to come forward and speak without fear. Military sexual trauma, or MST, is a persistent problem unless we speak up and expose it wherever we see it in the military. LULAC is here to work with the Army to ensure that a full and transparent investigation brings justice in the killing of this young soldier."

Police are asking anyone with information regarding the Aguilar's death to call the department at (931) 648-0656 ext. 5720.

To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, call the Clarksville/Montgomery County Crime Stopper Tipline at (931) 645-8477 or online.

According to a media release, LULA is the nations largest and oldest Hispanic civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. It's headquartered in Washington, D.C. with 525 councils in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Kenya Anderson is a reporter for The Leaf-Chronicle. She can be contacted at kanderson@gannett.com or on X at kenyaanderson32. Sign up for the Leaf-Chronicle to support local journalism at www.theleafchronicle.com.

This article originally appeared on Clarksville Leaf-Chronicle: Reward being offered for information about Fort Campbell soldier's death
DENVER (KDVR)  The Metro Denver Crime Stoppers are offering a $2,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction of those responsible for an act of vandalism on the University of Denver campus.

Police said early on the morning of May 20, someone sprayed red paint on the front of the Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science Building, located in the 2100 block of East Wesley Avenue. More paint was sprayed on the sidewalk in front of the building.

A brick building's doors and some of its stone facade covered in red paint. What appears to be spray-painted writing on the brick walkway makes a disparaging remark against weapons manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

Investigators said just before the vandalism, a diversion was created by someone who called campus security and reported a shooting at another location.

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That report triggered a large response from campus security and Denver police to the alleged shooting scene and away from the Richie Building. Police said the diversion tied up their resources and created a dangerous situation that endangered the safety of everyone on the campus.

Investigators have not said if they believe the vandalism is connected to the ongoing pro-Palestinian protest on the campus.

Protesters have ignored an order by the school administration to disband an encampment theyve established in front of the schools administrative building.

If you have any information, please contact Denver police or the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers. Tipsters can remain anonymous and still be eligible for the cash reward.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) is seen as the early underdog in the race to succeed Sen. Mitch McConnell (Ky.) as Senate GOP leader, but hes touting something that sets him apart from his two rivals: a close personal relationship with former President Trump.

Senate insiders say Scott doesnt have much of a chance of being elected leader if Trump loses to President Biden in November, but if Trump wins a second term, Scott would have a powerful argument to make to colleagues that he would have a direct line to the president.

I have known President Trump since before either of us ran for any political office, Scott told GOP colleagues in a letter Wednesday.

He traveled to New York last week to support Trump at his hush-money trial in Manhattan, and was the first Republican member of Congress to do so. He also spoke to Trump directly before announcing his leadership bid.

Scott told Fox News that Trump told him hes excited about his leadership bid.

We need a sea change. I talked to Trump about this today. He said hes excited Im getting into the race, he said. Were going to change the Senate. And were going to be the Senate that helps Donald Trump get his conservative agenda done.

Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), one of Trumps closest allies in the Senate, noted that Trumps around Rick all the time, being from Florida.

And he pointed out that senior Trump campaign adviser Susie Wiles used to work closely with Scott and helped elect him as governor of Florida.

But Tuberville expressed doubt that Trump will intervene in the race.

I dont think the presidents going to take a side, to be honest with you. I really dont. I know [Trumps] spoken to Thune and Cornyn, he said. I dont think he should step into it. Were a different group.

Scotts rivals for the top Senate GOP leadership job, Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.) and John Cornyn (Texas), also reached out to Trump before announcing their plans to run.

But they also have a history of pushing back on some of Trumps more provocative statements and questioning his electability, especially his appeal to independent and swing voters.

Scott has displayed unwavering loyalty to Trump since coming to the Senate in 2019 and even presented him with a Champion of Freedom award on behalf of the National Republican Senatorial Committee when he chaired it in 2021, the first of its kind he bestowed on anybody.

The closest Scott came to diverging with Trump in his Senate career was to urge him to attend Bidens inauguration in January of 2021.

Both Thune and Cornyn have stressed their record of enacting Trumps agenda as Senate GOP whips.

Cornyn held the whips job during Trumps first two years in office, helping to enact the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and confirm conservative Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.

Thune took over in 2019 and helped Trump pass landmark COVID-19 relief and confirm conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett.

Thune and Cornyn said Scotts entry into the race wasnt a surprise.

Hes talked about it. Again, its an open race. Anybody who wants to run is entitled to run. As we all know, its a small constituency, its 49 people. We hope [its] a few more after this next election, but we all have to go out and make our case to our voters, to our colleagues, Thune said.

Asked if a Trump victory would put Scott in a better position to win the race, Thune said, I dont know the answer to that.

Well see what happens with the fall elections. All I know is who the voters are, and we have to do everything we can to earn their vote and win them over. I think that theyre going to make that decision predicated upon who they think is going to be the best leader for the conference, he said.

Cornyn on Thursday wasnt buying the notion that Scott will be the Trump candidate.

My experience is these races are the ultimate insider race because its built on trust and relationships within the conference, so I dont expect this to be any different, he said.

Both Thune and Cornyn have pledged to collaborate closely with Trump if he returns to the White House, something many Republican senators want to see after years of feuding between Trump and McConnell.

While Trump may not step in to tilt the leadership race toward one candidate or another, Trumps relationship with a prospective leader could be an important factor in how some Republican senators vote  especially incoming first-term senators or more newly elected members who are more MAGA-aligned.

I think we need to come together as a group. We dont need to continue to divide, and I dont think we will, Tuberville said. I think we need to have a more cohesive group and obviously give [Trump] when he gets elected as much support as we possibly can.

Tuberville said Scott knows Trump better than Thune and Cornyn do.

Ive suggested to both Cornyn and Thune, Hey, youve got to get to know the president and youve got to be supportive, he said. Whoever is the leader is going to have to work very closely with the president because hes only got four years, and the first two years are going to be very crucial.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Riding for a purpose: Motorcyclist stop in Wytheville, Bedford on Run for the Wall ride

WYTHEVILLE, Va. (WFXR)  Hundreds of motorcyclists joined the 2024 Run for the Wall, taking riders across several states, to honor veterans.

The organized cross-country ride kicks off in Ontario, California, and motorcyclists cruise through several cities and towns including Bedford and Wytheville. For 10 days, riders take the journey on one of four routes before reaching their final destination, the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C.

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The mission of the Run for the Wall is to raise awareness for veterans who are still missing and missing in action, and to give veterans the Welcome Home they deserve.

On May 22, riders exited off Interstate 81 North and headed to Withers Park, in Wytheville. Members of the community and state and local officials gathered to welcome motorcyclists to the town.

2024 Run for the Wall event. (Photo Courtesy: Wytheville Police Department)

During this week, we place special honor on our veterans, said Wytheville Mayor Beth Taylor during the Welcome Home ceremony. While the mission began decades ago, Run for the Walls journey of awareness has continued to be as important today as ever.

Run for the Wall began in 1989 by a couple of Vietnam Veterans who traveled across America to spread the word about thousands of men and women still unaccounted for from wars. Over the years, the ride grew, becoming a staple for families and veterans in the community.

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Now, more than 1,200 motorcyclists have joined the ride.

On May 23, riders also stopped at the National D-Day Memorial, in Bedford, where they held a moment of silence and ceremony.

Gregory Steele, a rider with Run for the Wall says he is riding for a purpose and when he sees the support from the community, it gives him heart.

All the schools we go to, all the kids, all the cities that are coming out in the middle of the street with their flags, wavingIts just an amazing feeling. They told me I would get tears on this ride and it has happened. added Steele.

Motorcyclists ride together for the Run for the Wall event on May 23. (Jemon Haskins/ WFXR News)

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Riverside woman gets almost 3 years for threatening Jewish family after mass shooting at synagogue

A Riverside woman was sentenced to almost three years in federal prison for making antisemitic threats against the former executive director of a Pittsburgh synagogue that was the site of a mass shooting in 2018 and members of his family.

Melanie Harris, 59, was sentenced Thursday to 32 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after she pleaded guilty to knowingly and intentionally transmitting a threatening communication in interstate commerce, the U.S. Department of Justice said in a news release.

On Oct. 3, 2022, Harris left four separate threatening voicemails for the former executive director of the Tree of Life Synagogue, where 11 people were shot and killed in 2018. In one of those voicemails, she used a slur aimed at Jews while saying Ill cut your f head off.

Harris also used the *67 feature to conceal her phone number, meaning the former ED, his wife and his adult child only knew the calls were coming from the Riverside area and were received where the victim was in southern Florida.

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The former Tree of Life employee was not alone in receiving the calls; prosecutors said more than 240 such calls were made to the victims over a four-year span, including calls to the adult child referring to them by their first name, in anti-Semitic and violent terms, the release said.

In these calls and voicemails, Harris made incessant references to the congregants murdered in the October 2018 massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaHarris also made vile references to Anne Frank being murdered by the Nazis, Jews going back to Auschwitz, and in one voicemail, played for the Court at the sentencing hearing, she repeatedly screamed Seig Heil, Kill [anti-Jewish slur] over and over before hanging up, prosecutors said.

In addition, on the same day in February 2019 that Harris began her calls to Victim 1, she also began calling the Tree of Life leaving virtually identical hate-filled anti-Semitic messages referencing the deaths of the elderly worshippers, the release added.

U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe said in the release that Harris terrorized a Jewish family.

Her hate-filled telephone calls and voicemails were abhorrent, Lapointe said. No one should live in fear of threats, harassment, and hate-fueled violence.

Harris is being held at Federal Detention Center, Miami, according to federal prison records.

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Last year, an alleged stalker attempted to break into Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cheryl Hiness Los Angeles home. After a restraining order was granted, the trespasser is now ordered to attend AA/NA classes.

According to legal docs obtained by The Blast, the alleged suspect got a plea deal in his criminal case.

Robert Kennedy Jr.'s Alleged Trespasser Gets Plea Deal

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At the time of the incident, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s security team was present and managed to subdue the man until the police arrived, leading to his arrest. Cheryl Hines, married to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. since 2014, was also home during the incident but was fortunately unharmed. She was the one who reportedly noticed the man in the yard.

This was not the only time the man trespassed and attempted to break in, as law enforcement was reportedly called back to the home around 1:30 a.m. the following morning. He was arrested again, this time for violating a court order.

As previously reported by The Blast, the same man who attempted to break into Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cheryl Hiness home in 2023 was officially charged with three criminal offenses in November of that same year -- "Disobeying Court Order," "Intent to Annoy or Harass With Repeat Calls/Contact," and "Trespass: Injury to Property/Obstruct Business."

After a judge ordered a restraining order, the alleged trespasser is now required to attend AA/NA classes for one year, per documents obtained by The Blast -- a seemingly generous demand considering a politician is involved.

Robert Kennedy Jr.'s Alleged Stalker Required To Attend AA/NA Classes

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According to legal documents previously obtained by The Blast, the man was ordered to stay away from the entire Kennedy family and could not "harass, intimidate, molest, attack, strike, threaten, assault, hit, abuse, destroy personal property of, or disturb the peace of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr."

Now, new legal documents, also obtained by The Blast, state that Robert Kennedy Jr's alleged trespasser got a mental health diversion deal implemented for one year to complete AA/NA classes.

"Increased diversion of individuals with mental disorders to mitigate the individuals' entry and reentry into the criminal justice system while protecting public safety," the docs state.

For those who are unaware, AA stands for Alcoholics Anonymous and NA refers to Narcotics Anonymous.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Granted A Restraining Order

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As The Blast previously reported, Kennedy Jr. was granted a five-year restraining order, which stated that the man must stay away from the entire Kennedy family.

The order prohibits any form of contact, whether direct or indirect, including "in person, by telephone, in writing, by public or private mail, by interoffice mail, by email, by text message, by fax, or by other electronic means," as documented by The Blast.

Additionally, the restraining order specifies that the man cannot own, possess, buy, or attempt to buy firearms, guns, firearm parts, or ammunition.

Will RFK Jr. Qualify For The June Presidential Debate?

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According to ABC, as of May 22, 2024, Kennedy was "halfway to meeting the polling requirement for CNNs June 27 debate."

CNN set the poll eligibility period from March 13 to June 20 and specified 12 approved pollsters and media outlets. Additionally, the rules stipulate that eligible polls must measure the opinions of registered or likely voters, per the outlet.

"A pair of late April surveys from CNN/SSRS and Quinnipiac University, each of which found Kennedy attracting 16% among registered voters. In eight other eligible polls that tested Kennedy, he fell short of 15%," ABC reported.

In simpler terms, Kennedy could qualify for the June 27 debate over the next month.

Could Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Make History?

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If Kennedy does qualify for the June 27 debate, he could make history.

Since presidential debates began in 1960, only two third-party candidates have made it to the general election debate stage, per ABC. In 1992, Ross Perot participated in all three debates against incumbent President George H.W. Bush and Democrat Bill Clinton.

In 1980, John Anderson debated Republican Ronald Reagan once, without the participation of incumbent President Jimmy Carter, who declined to attend due to Anderson's inclusion.

Kennedy intends to be listed on the ballot in all 50 states. However, his team has only filed formal applications to be on the ballot in six states to this point. This falls significantly short of the 270 electoral votes required.
President Bidens reelection campaign released an ad Friday narrated by actor Robert De Niro that argues that former President Trump is an unhinged, power-hungry candidate.

The 30-second ad, titled Snapped, is part of the campaigns $14 million paid media buy for May and will run on general market television and digital platforms across battleground states, as well as on national cable television.

From midnight tweets, to drinking bleach, to tear-gassing citizens and staging a photo-op, we knew Trump was out of control when he was president, and then he lost the 2020 election and snapped. Desperately trying to hold on to power. Now hes running again, this time threatening to be a dictator, to terminate the Constitution, De Niro says in the ad.

It includes a clip from Trump saying that if he doesnt get elected, it will be a blood bath.

Trump first made the blood bath remark in the context of a speech about auto imports, arguing Bidens reelection would hurt that sector. He later used it again to describe the border situation.

Trump wants revenge, and hell stop at nothing to get it, De Niro said.

The campaign says the ad outlines the difference between Biden and Trump ahead of Novembers election.

This ad lays out the clear contrast voters will see a month from now when Trump stands on the debate stage next to Joe Biden: Trump is running to regain power for himself, Joe Biden is running to serve you, the American people, Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said.

The Biden campaigns ongoing focus on battleground states comes as a new Bloomberg/Morning Consult poll this week found Trump is leading Biden by 4 points in multiple of those key states.

Biden is trailing Trump by 1.1 percentage points nationally, according to an aggregation of polls from Decision Desk HQ/The Hill.

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(The Hill)  President Bidens reelection campaign released an ad Friday narrated by actor Robert De Niro that argues that former President Trump is an unhinged, power-hungry candidate.

The 30-second ad, titled Snapped, is part of the campaigns $14 million paid media buy for May and will run on general market television and digital platforms across battleground states, as well as on national cable television.

From midnight tweets, to drinking bleach, to tear-gassing citizens and staging a photo-op, we knew Trump was out of control when he was president, and then he lost the 2020 election and snapped. Desperately trying to hold on to power. Now hes running again, this time threatening to be a dictator, to terminate the Constitution, De Niro says in the ad.

It includes a clip from Trump saying that if he doesnt get elected, it will be a blood bath.

Trump first made the blood bath remark in the context of a speech about auto imports, arguing Bidens reelection would hurt that sector. He later used it again to describe the border situation.

Trump wants revenge, and hell stop at nothing to get it, De Niro said.

The campaign says the ad outlines the difference between Biden and Trump ahead of Novembers election.

This ad lays out the clear contrast voters will see a month from now when Trump stands on the debate stage next to Joe Biden: Trump is running to regain power for himself, Joe Biden is running to serve you, the American people, Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said.

The Biden campaigns ongoing focus on battleground states comes as a new Bloomberg/Morning Consult poll this week found Trump is leading Biden by 4 points in multiple of those key states.

Biden is trailing Trump by 1.1 percentage points nationally, according to an aggregation of polls from Decision Desk HQ/The Hill.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
TEHRAN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces on Thursday released the first report on the causes of a recent helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage.

Following the crash, a senior investigation committee composed of experts, specialists and technicians arrived at the scene on Monday morning, the semi-official Tasnim news agency quoted the report by the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces as saying.

According to the report, the helicopter had remained on its predetermined course all along the way and had not deviated from the flight route.

Almost one minute and a half before the incident, the pilot of the crashed helicopter had contacted the other two helicopters of the president's convoy, the report said.

No trace of bullets or similar items have been detected on the wreckage of the crashed helicopter, it said.

After crashing into the mountain, the helicopter had caught fire, it said.

"Complications of the region, fog and low temperature" had caused the search and rescue operations to continue until nightfall and then throughout the night, the report said, adding, "At 5:00 a.m. local time on Monday (0130 GMT), with the assistance of drones, the exact location of the incident was identified."

No suspicious issue had been detected in the conversations between the watchtower and the flight crew, it added.

More details would be provided after further investigations, it said.

Raisi and his entourage were en route to East Azarbaijan province when the helicopter carrying them crashed in a mountainous area on Sunday.

Also on board the helicopter were Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Mohammad Ali Ale-Hashem, the representative of Iran's Supreme Leader to East Azarbaijan.

Raisi was laid to rest on Thursday in the holy shrine of Imam Reza in his hometown, the northeastern city of Mashhad. 
Robert De Niro Narrates Latest Joe Biden Ad Snapped: Trump Wants Revenge And Hell Stop At Nothing To Get It

Joe Bidens campaign has enlisted Robert De Niro to narrate his latest ad, one that warns that Donald Trump has snapped since leading the White House and wants to terminate the Constitution.

The 30-second spot will be part of the campaigns paid media buy for May, airing in broadcast markets in battleground states and on national cable. It also will be featured on digital platforms in battleground states. The spot will start being show today.

More from Deadline

De Niro is one of Trumps most outspoken critics, speaking out about him on talk shows and in awards appearances, and the actors use of expletives often get the most attention.

From midnight tweets, to drinking bleach, to tear-gassing citizens, and staging a photo op. We knew Trump was out of control when he was president, De Niro says in the spot.

Then he lost the 2020 election  and snapped. Desperately trying to hold onto power. Now hes running again. This time threatening to be a dictator. To terminate the Constitution, he says.

The spot features a clip of Trump saying, If I dont get elected its gonna be a bloodbath.

De Niro says, Trump wants revenge. And hell stop at nothing to get it.

Trump used the term bloodbath in a speech in March while talking about the potential loss of auto manufacturing jobs. Trump complained afterward that Biden took his words out of context, construing them as a call for political violence. But Trump used the term again to describe the Biden border policy.

The Biden campaign said that the spot is the start of an effort to spotlight Trump in advance of the first debate, scheduled for June 27 on CNN. Campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon suggested in a memo that Biden would show a contrast with Trump at that event. Donald Trump said he would debate any time, anywhere, any place  and now he can hear it for himself. If he shows up, she wrote.

At a rally in New York on Thursday evening, Trump attacked one of the debate moderators, Jake Tapper, and tried to rile up his crown on the notion that the debate would be unfair because of the network.

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In the Biden campaign ad he narrates, Robert De Niro emphasizes the threat Trump poses to democracy and the Constitution. Matt Marton/Associated Press

The Academy Award-winning actor Robert De Niro narrates a new campaign advertisement for President Joe Biden, kicking off a series of highly-produced TV and digital spots leading up to Bidens first debate with former President Donald Trump in Atlanta on June 27.

In the 30-second video ad, De Niro, a long-time Democrat and vehement Trump critic, lays out examples of erratic and authoritarian behavior showing Trump out of control as president.

Noting Trumps refusal to concede the 2020 election, De Niro argues Trumps behavior worsened after losing to Biden. The former presidents conduct from Nov. 2020 onward highlights the threats to American democracy that would come from a second Trump term, according to the renowned star of The Godfather Part II and Raging Bull.

Now hes running again  this time, threatening to be a dictator, to terminate the Constitution, De Niro says, before a clip of Trump warning of a bloodbath if he loses. Trump wants revenge, and will stop at nothing to get it.

Trump indeed threatened a bloodbath if he lost, but the ad takes his words out of context. He was specifically referring to the negative effect his defeat would have on the U.S. automotive industry.

The De Niro ad, which came out Friday, is part of a broader push by the Biden campaign to bring home the stakes of the election for key voters, many of whom have not yet been following the race closely.

The campaign does not say how much money it puts behind individual ads, but the video is part of a $14 million blitz this month in the six battleground states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

Between now and the first debate, the Biden campaign plans to emphasize three core themes, according to a memo released by Biden campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon: Trumps responsibility for overturning the federal right to abortion and his plans to go further; how Trump attacks our democracy, continues to embrace political violence, and spreads conspiracies about the election he lost (the focus of the De Niro ad); and how Trumps economic plans, from his billionaire tax giveaways to his plans to gut Social Security and Medicare, would make him and his friends richer and jack up costs for the middle class.

OMalley Dillon said two dates the campaign will use to drive home these themes are the tenth anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, and the second anniversary of the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade on June 24.

Biden and Trump have agreed to two live televised debates. CNN will host the Atlanta match-up, and ABC News will host the second debate on Sept. 10, the location of which is still to be determined.

The two debates are the earliest that general-election presidential debates have occurred since the tradition of televised debates began in 1960.

Biden is apparently eager to take Trump down a notch before early voting, which begins in some states in late September. Biden currently trails Trump among registered voters in all six battleground states.

Related...
Robert C. OBrien, former U.S. national security adviser, talks about national security during a press conference at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Former national security adviser Robert OBrien announced a new annual scholarship to the Brigham Young University Jerusalem Center this week during a meeting with Israel President Isaac Herzog.

OBrien, who served as Donald Trumps senior foreign policy adviser from 2019 to 2021, and is expected to play a role in a potential future Trump administration, also met with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant and former Israel national security adviser Meir Ben Shabbat.

OBrien and Ben Shabbat were two of the architects behind the historic Abraham Accords agreement in 2020, which formally normalized diplomatic relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and several other predominantly Muslim nations. At the time, Netanyahu called the accomplishment a new dawn of peace.

In the months since the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre of Israelis by Hamas terrorists, OBrien has been an outspoken defender of Israel as it has waged war in Gaza.

OBrien told The New York Times he made the visit to Israel as a private citizen. His meetings were also attended by two other former ambassadors from the Trump administration, John Rakolta and Ed McMullen, The New York Times reported.

The Robert & Lo-Mari OBrien scholarship, named after himself and his wife, will be extended to one student each year through his geopolitical consulting firm, American Global Strategies, OBrien said.

This scholarship is meant to show support for our Jewish brothers and sisters through the beautiful center in Jerusalem, OBrien said in an interview with the Deseret News. Lo-Mari and I hope it will help to increase understanding between our two countries by bringing BYU students to the Holy Land.

OBrien briefly attended BYU before deciding to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After a career in international law with several presidential appointments over the years, he was brought into the Trump administration, first as the presidents special envoy for hostage affairs from 2018 to 2019, and then as national security adviser.

OBrien currently lives in Utah. His name has been floated as a possible vice presidential pick for Trumps 2024 bid for the White House.
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter and Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, speak to members of the media while visiting the State Departments Salt Lake City Passport Fair at the Bennett Federal Building in Salt Lake City on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. Romney and other senators say Canada must boost military spending. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Utah Sen. Mitt Romney is one of more than nearly two dozen Republican and Democratic U.S. senators who have signed a letter urging Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to come up with a plan to increase defense spending to strengthen NATO.

Calling themselves friends of Canada, the senators wrote, we are concerned and profoundly disappointed that Canadas most recent projection indicated that it will not reach its two percent commitment this decade, a threshold tied to a nations gross domestic product, or GDP, that was agreed to by all of the military alliances allies in 2014 and again last year.

As a founding member of NATO, Canada is a valued ally and has long contributed to essential NATO operations around the world. However, the transatlantic alliance now faces one of the most severe threat landscapes in its history, the letter stated, saying all allies are being asked to uphold their commitment to ensure a stronger, sustainable NATO.

Radio Canada International described the letter as unusually critical, and said Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair downplayed the issue expected to be raised at a July NATO Summit in Washington, D.C.. Blair told reporters Thursday hes confident he can assure those concerned senators that Canada will be a ready and capable ally to NATO.

Blair, RCI reported, also said, Canada is on a very strong upward trajectory in defense spending. We know weve got work to do, weve acknowledged that since day one. Referring to a recent policy that would commit billions of dollars to military spending over the next decade, he said, Weve clearly indicated in our budget the path to getting that done.

According to the senators letter, Canadas defense spending will rise to just above 1.7% in 2029, At the same time, the senators said, NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, is also in dire need of modernization, a process that can only move forward with direct cooperation from the Canadian government.

Canada will fail to meet its obligations to the alliance, to the detriment of all NATO allies and the free world, without immediate and meaningful action to increase defense spending, the senators letter said, adding, The United States commitment to NATO is unwavering.

Besides Romney, a Republican and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, other senators who signed the letter include Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H, and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., co-chairs of the Senate NATO Observers Group.

Also signing were Sens. Ben Cardin, D-Md; Jim Risch, R-Idaho; Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.; Chris Coons, D-Del.; John Cornyn, R-Texas; Pete Ricketts, R-Neb.; Joni Ernst, R-Iowa; Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.; Tim Kaine, D-Va.; Jeff Merkley, D-Ore.; Jacky Rosen, D-Nev.; Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.; Dan Sullivan, R-Ark.; Angus King, I-Maine; Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.; Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii; Kevin Cramer, R-N.D.; Tim Scott, R-S.C.; Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz.; and Ted Cruz, R-Texas.
Roosters to take over former OCharleys near Gahanna

Roosters to take over former OCharleys near Gahanna

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  An Ohio-based casual restaurant known for its chicken wings is opening a new location just north of Gahanna, moving into a building that previously housed an OCharleys restaurant.

A Roosters Wings is coming to 4850 Morse Road. The new restaurant will mark Roosters 15th Columbus-area location and 33rd Ohio location.

Its in the very preliminary stages, but it is official that the lease has been signed, said Nicole Cox, vice president of marketing at Roosters.

Cox said the building is in great condition, but will be undergoing renovations to Roosters-ize the establishment. The company is aiming to open sometime this winter.

Weve been wanting to be a part of the Gahanna community for a very, very long time, and this was the perfect opportunity, perfect building, perfect location, Cox said. Were just so excited that we finally found a place to be in the community.

Roosters will be taking over the building that belonged to a now-shuttered OCharleys, which closed six locations in Ohio and numerous more across the country last year due to industry challenges.

The Nashville-based chain closed its Morse Road and Georgesville Square locations in August and its Stringtown Road and Westerville-area restaurant in November.

The former Stringtown Road OCharleys in Grove City is also getting a makeover, with the steakhouse Logans Roadhouse acquiring the property. The brand now only operates two restaurants in central Ohio, one at 6224 Gender Road in Canal Winchester and another at 2272 Baltimore Reynoldsburg Road in Reynoldsburg.

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Rose Brooks Center in Kansas City has become the first unionized domestic violence shelter in Missouri following a vote Thursday.

I am not voting yes for the union for just myself, but for previous coworkers who could not sustain their jobs, said Brianna Green, a shelter advocate at Rose Brooks.

Im voting yes for future coworkers, so that they have better benefits than what we have right now.

Workers unionized with Laborers Local 955, which represents workers across 12 different counties in Missouri.

Rose Brooks management had implied in conversation that layoffs would follow a vote to unionize, Andrew Hutchinson, an organizer with Local 955, said Tuesday.

However, Rose Brooks leadership will recognize the union, Scott Mason, Director of Stewardship and Marketing, told The Star on Friday.

Our employees are at the heart of the work we do each day and, from the start, we supported our employees right to a vote, and are respecting the outcome of that vote, Mason wrote.

Forty percent of employees voted against unionizing, according to Mason.

The vote in favor of the union was 27-18, with one ballot still under contest, KCUR reported.

Rose Brooks Center is one of the oldest and largest domestic violence shelters in Kansas City.

About 12,000 people called the shelters hotline in 2023, and about 800 domestic violence survivors worked with employees that year, according to the Rose Brooks website.

Shelter services include emergency housing and childcare, employment advocacy and counseling. Staff turnover has been constant, employees said.

Ammi Vazquez, who has worked at Rose Brooks since 2021, has seen every single one of her original coworkers leave.

Theres been moments where I dont think we were very trauma-informed in the way we spoke to our coworkers, Vazquez said.

Shelter management is rarely interested in trying to understand the problems workers report, Vazquez said.

My own manager was like, Oh, youve never told me about needing more pay, Vazquez said. I was like, Dude, I tried to a couple times.

Twenty-five former Rose Brooks employees signed a letter in favor of a union, acknowledging the high level of burnout associated with supporting domestic violence survivors.

Rose Brooks Center has fostered a culture centered on survivors needs, former employees wrote. We believe a union further amplifies these values.

Letters of support arrived from 10 members of the Kansas City Council, as well as organizations including the Kansas chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and the KC Federation of Teachers.

Workers and supporters also held a rally on Tuesday.

Ashley Ball, a domestic violence survivor, said watching workers fighting for stability on the job mirrors her struggle with workplace resources in the service industry.

Rose Brooks workers helped Ball with emergency housing, gas cards, car repairs and glasses for her son when she arrived in Kansas City. Showing up for clients like her requires energy, which is unsustainable if pay and conditions are poor, Ball said Tuesday.

Fighting for better treatment on the job is not only good for the workers, it also means better conditions for the clients as well, said Ball, a member of advocacy group Stand Up KC. I know what its like to work as a low-wage worker when your own needs arent being met, and it can be hard to take care of someone elses needs.

Green said some workers have been mistreated by clients  and management has become less responsive to these incidents.

Some people feel like they cant support themselves, and Ive even heard some people say that they feel like theyre being abused, Green said on Tuesday. Which is a lot to say, because were a domestic violence agency. Thats kind of the whole point, is to fight that stuff.

Now that members have voted to unionize, more comprehensive demands will follow, Hutchinson said. The union will seek better safety plans for working in survivors homes, along with higher pay, caseload limits and paid family leave.

Most of what workers hoped to accomplish by unionizing is related to better benefits, Vazquez said.

I just paid over $400 for these glasses, and Im supposed to have insurance, Vazquez said. So I dont know if my eyes are just really bad, or the insurance is funky.

Madeline Hatler, a victim support advocate, hopes unionizing means she will be the last employee to face the prospect of unpaid maternity leave. Like Vazquez, Hatler, who is pregnant, has seen her entire team turn over in her eight months at Rose Brooks.

I really hope for a better world for my coworkers, where we can live sustainable lives, Hatler said. Rose Brooks has always been the goal for me, so I dont want to leave.
The Ross Township Police Department is mourning the death of a retired police officer.

Officer Thomas Koedel served the area for 37 years.

The department said Koedel was a Ross Township resident and he remained active in the community after retiring in 2010.

During his time with the police department, Tom was the departments firearms instructor and armorer. Tom was always a guy that you could go to for an answer. Rest easy my friend, a Facebook post reads.

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Advocates, legislators, and pregnant workers rallied in support of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act on Dec. 1, 2022 in Washington, D.C. The amendment was included in the federal spending bill signed by President Joe Biden at the end of the year. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for A Better Balance)

Advocates, legislators, and pregnant workers rallied in support of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act on Dec. 1, 2022, in Washington, D.C. The amendment was included in the federal spending bill signed by President Joe Biden at the end of the year. (Paul Morigi/Getty Images for A Better Balance)

Natasha Jackson was four months pregnant when she told her supervisor she was expecting. It was 2008, and Jackson was an account executive at a rental furniture store in Charleston, South Carolina  the only female employee there.

I actually hid my pregnancy as long as I could because I was scared about what could happen, she said.

When her doctor recommended that she not lift more than 25 pounds, her employer wouldnt let her move temporarily to a role where she didnt need to lift furniture, even though those roles were available, she said. She was forced to go on leave and then lost her job. Her marriage unraveled and she spent time after the birth in emergency housing.

That hardship affected me years on, and it took away the joy of being pregnant, said Jackson. They made me feel guilty and ashamed for having a baby.

Jackson, now 41 and a mother of four who owns her own cleaning company, has spent years working with advocacy groups to fight for better laws to protect pregnant workers. Last year, she was invited to speak at a White House event celebrating the passage of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, a new workplace anti-discrimination law for which she had advocated.

But now this law, passed with wide bipartisan support, has become fodder in the bitter battle over abortion rights between Republican-led states and the federal government.

The act fills gaps in state and federal protections by requiring employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers and those who have recently given birth or have related medical conditions  unless the employer can prove it would cause undue hardship on the business.

Accommodations can include allowing an employee to take additional bathroom breaks, carry a water bottle, or sit instead of stand while on the job. After years of lobbying by nonprofit organizations and business groups, the federal law passed in December 2022. It went into effect last June.

In its rulemaking process, the Biden administration included abortion as a related medical condition covered by the law. That means employees seeking abortion care can ask for accommodations from their employers, such as time off work for an appointment or recovery.

This year, 19 Republican attorneys general  including from Jacksons home state of South Carolina  have sued the administration over that interpretation.

It seems quite ridiculous to me that some employers want so much control over employees to the point that they feel like they have the right to threaten their job security because of pregnancy or anything associated with it.

 Natasha Jackson, mom of four who once lost her job after asking for pregnancy accomodations

The AGs argue the Biden administration is forcing abortion accommodations even in states where abortions are illegal.

Under this radical interpretation of the PWFA, business owners will face federal lawsuits if they dont accommodate employees abortions, even if those abortions are illegal under state law, Arkansas Republican Attorney General Tim Griffin said in a statement last month announcing the lawsuit filed by Arkansas and 16 other Republican-led states.

But some advocates say the lawsuit threatens protections for all pregnant workers covered under the new law  not just the small subset who need abortion care.

These states are cutting off their noses to spite their faces, said Elizabeth Gedmark, an attorney and vice president of A Better Balance, a national nonprofit advocacy organization that provides legal services and has long pushed for a national Pregnant Workers Fairness Act.

These attacks have very real consequences for peoples lives and for their economic security and health, she said.

Jackson fears the lawsuit could lead to fewer workers accessing the care they need to be healthy.

[Workers] should have the right to proper medical care during pregnancy, after childbirth, after having a miscarriage, or having an abortion, she said. It seems quite ridiculous to me that some employers want so much control over employees to the point that they feel like they have the right to threaten their job security because of pregnancy or anything associated with it.

Into the fray

After Congress passed the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a federal agency known as the EEOC, had to hammer out a set of rules that clarify what employers can and cant do under the law.

So last summer, the EEOC sought public comment on its proposed rules for how the new law would work. More than 100,000 comments were submitted over a two-month period.

The flood of comments stemmed from opinions about whether the EEOC should include abortion in its definition of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions that are covered under the new law.

The vast majority were nearly identical form comments, according to the EEOC. About 54,000 of the comments urged the EEOC to exclude abortion, while about 40,000 supported its inclusion.

In a 3-2 vote, the EEOC ultimately adopted new rules that included abortion care in its definition of conditions covered under the law. The rules are set to go into effect June 18.

But in April, a week after the EEOC announced its final rules, the 17-state coalition of GOP attorneys general argued in its lawsuit that the agencys erroneous interpretation of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act creates an abortion accommodation mandate.

When the law was passed by Congress, it was explicitly understood not to address abortion at all, and the text of the statute does not address abortion, said Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti, who is co-leading the lawsuit with Arkansas Griffin.

Skrmetti and the other Republican attorneys general point to comments made by lawmakers during debate on the measure that appear to signal Congress intent was not to impose abortion-related requirements in states where those abortions would be illegal.

Pennsylvania Democratic U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, who sponsored the pregnant workers bill, said during debate that the EEOC could not issue any regulation that requires abortion leave, nor does the act permit the EEOC to require employers to provide abortions in violation of state law.

The 15 other states joining the lawsuit are Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah and West Virginia.

More states have jumped into the fray. In mid-May, Louisianas and Mississippis attorneys general, both Republicans, filed their own lawsuit challenging the same provision.

And in February, a federal judge in Texas blocked the EEOC from accepting complaints filed by Texas state employees under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. It was a win for Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, who had sued the Biden administration last year.

Protections at risk

Skrmetti, the Tennessee attorney general, believes the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act is a good law.

It was passed with a degree of bipartisanship that you rarely see, he told Stateline, and it undermines the efforts of Congress and the popular will when agencies take laws and change them without the authority of the peoples representatives.

But Gedmark, of A Better Balance, said decades of legal precedent support including abortion as a related medical condition for pregnant workers. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act, a federal law passed in 1978, prohibits sex discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions  a definition that the EEOC has long interpreted to include abortion.

Proponents of the new Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the EEOCs rules worry the lawsuits will sow confusion among employers and employees. Theres concern, Gedmark said, that a court could render more of the regulations invalid, beyond those that mention abortion.

Skrmetti doesnt think the 17-state lawsuit will hurt the laws protections for pregnant, postpartum and lactating workers.

The optimal outcome would be for the abortion-related pieces of the rule that arent supported by the statute to be vacated, he said. But the law remains the law regardless of what the [EEOCs] rules are.

While states and the feds clash in court, Jackson said shes focused on making sure as many women as possible know about their new rights.

Whenever shes out shopping and spots a pregnant store employee, she asks how theyre doing. She asks if they know about their workplace rights, and how to ask their employers for the accommodations they need.

Whether a mother decides to have an abortion or not, she still needs medical care after the procedure, the same as she would need medical care if she had a miscarriage or regular childbirth, Jackson said. I believe that employers need to know the difference between personal [ideology] and business.

This story was originally published by Stateline. Like South Dakota Searchlight, its part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Follow Stateline on Facebook and Twitter.

The post New rules protect pregnant workers, but red states sue over abortion provisions appeared first on South Dakota Searchlight.
Rural schools look for ways to bring more multilingual education into the curriculum

Hilda Robles instructs fourth-grade students learning about body parts in Spanish in Clinton Countys Bi-Literacy program. (Photo by Esmeralda Cruz/The Daily Yonder)

This story was originally published in the Daily Yonder. For more rural reporting and small-town stories visit dailyyonder.com.

Throughout rural America, non-native English speakers are less likely than their urban peers to get proper support in school, sometimes leading to a lifetime of lower educational attainment. But some rural schools are developing multilingual education strategies to rival those found in urban and suburban districts.

In general, its easier to fund more diverse course offerings in bigger schools. From Advanced Placement U.S. History to Spanish immersion, more students means more funding. But in rural DuBois County, Indiana, administrators are prioritizing English-learner education. There, students have access to gold standard multilingual programming, a hard-won achievement for any U.S. school, but especially for such a small district.

We are the only school in the region who started a dual language program, said Rossina Sandoval, Southwest DuBois County School Districts director of community engagement, in an interview with the Daily Yonder.

To meet the gold standard, students in the dual language immersion program receive 50% of their instruction in English and 50% of their instruction in Spanish. Fifty percent of the program is made up of students whose native language is Spanish and the other half is made up of native English speakers. The program is currently offered from kindergarten through third grade, with plans to expand to fourth and fifth grade.

By developing a program with 50/50 language instruction and 50/50 student enrollment, students are able to not only learn both their native and target language from their teachers, but they are also able to learn from each other, Sandoval said.

That has proven to be the most effective way to develop language skills, she said.

When the program was first introduced, the school received pushback from both Spanish-speaking and English-speaking families. Spanish-speaking families felt the school should prioritize English learning, given that their children already speak Spanish at home. And English-speaking families worried that they wouldnt be able to help their children with Spanish homework.

To address family concerns on both sides, the school shared information about the benefits of formal bilingual education. In addition to maintaining their conversational skills, Spanish-speaking students receive instruction in grammar, spelling, and reading in their native language. This approach helps students who already speak another language read and write in another language, too.

Second-grade students in Clinton Countys Bi-Literacy program learn about fruits and vegetables in Spanish. (Photo by Esmeralda Cruz/Daily Yonder)

Learning two languages does not hurt a students ability to master either one. Bilingual children are shown to have better focus and logical reasoning, and  according to Sandoval  will be suited to a wider range of opportunities in the workforce.

Its natural, we want the best for our kids, she said. The best we can do is educate the community as a whole that this is the best method to develop multilingualism, this is the best method to enhance global skills and produce global citizens.

Intersecting problems

The Latino population in DuBois County has been expanding for decades. Today it sits at 9.5%, which is approximately half the national percentage. But in Southwest DuBois County schools, more than a third of students identify as Latino. (The disparity in those numbers reflects higher birth rates within the Latino population and the uneven distribution of those families within the county.)

The demographics of rural schools have been changing nationwide. According to a recent report from the National Rural Education Association, 80,000 more English-learner and multilingual students were enrolled in rural districts in the 2021 school year than in 2013.

Historically, rural school districts have struggled to provide high quality education to non-native English speakers. When English-learner populations are small, it can be difficult to fund robust bilingual programming and easy to overlook their necessity.

Rural English learners sit at the intersection of overlapping structural problems in public education. The national teacher shortage is worse in nonmetropolitan places, and its most problematic in racially diverse and high-poverty rural schools. Nationally, there arent enough bilingual educators, or educators certified to teach English as a second language (ESL).

According to recent research, while English-learner populations are growing in rural places, rural multilingual learners are less likely to receive instruction in their native languages. And while federal guidelines require that all non-native English speakers receive specialized instruction, in rural places only a little more than 60% actually do.

DuBois Countys top-tier bilingual education program should be used as a model in other rural school districts, Sandoval said. As an immigrant, as a U.S. citizen, I feel very proud  because this can be replicated in communities that look like ours.

Support for these programs must be built inside and outside the schoolhouse, Sandoval said. There has to be a degree of openness toward bilingualism or multilingualism. This is an effort thats not just made by me, its made by the school and by the community.

A third-grade student in Clinton Countrys Bi-Literacy program reviews a lesson about the universe by playing bingo. (Photo by Esmeralda Cruz/Daily Yonder)

Programs that increase accessibility and trust with parents include Cafe en el Parque, a parent meeting held in Spanish that draws in over 100 families each month, and the Emergent Bilingual program, which meets after school and on weekends helps new immigrant students and families learn more about how the American education system works.

Programs that help establish community support and participation include Fuertes Together, a partnership with the public library where families can hear stories in Spanish and English and engage with cultural music, dance, and art. And a new program, Bilingual Village, helps bilingual students identify speaking partners in the community who can converse in the students new language.

A wide range of strategies

When Esmeralda Cruz was a child in the 1990s, she immigrated with her family from Mexico to rural Clinton County, Indiana, where she lives and works today.

Back then, she said, there were not a lot of Latino families in the area. In my first grade classroom I only had one classmate that was bilingual.

This posed major challenges to her education: Esmeralda said that, instead of receiving proper language instruction, she was placed in classes meant to address learning disabilities.

Cruzs experience is not unique, according to Maria Coady, professor of multilingual education at North Carolina State University. In places that arent accustomed to supporting immigrant populations, shes seen English learners sent to speech therapy in place of proper ESL classes. Schools might think that all these kids have special learning needs because it looks like theyre not learning, she said, when in fact, theyre just learning the language.

As immigrant populations grow throughout the rural U.S., newcomers often find themselves in Cruzs childhood position  navigating school districts unaccustomed to educating non-native English speakers.

Today, Cruz works as a Hispanic community engagement director for Purdue Extension. Prior to that, she was the health and human sciences educator at Purdue Extension office in Clinton County, Indiana.

According to scholars of rural multilingual education, schools that do have ESL or bilingual systems in place exist across a broad spectrum, from gold-standard bilingual education programs like the one in DuBois County to ESL sessions that require students to miss part of the school day and provide no native-language instruction.

Hilda Robles instructs fourth-grade students during a lesson in Clinton Countys Bi-Literacy program. (Photo by Esmeralda Cruz/Daily Yonder)

In places with very small English-learner populations, Coady said, schools might pool resources and bring in an itinerant teacher  that is, a teacher who might travel between several rural schools to provide ESL services.

This is the least effective method of multilingual education for two reasons, Coady said: its disruptive to pull students out of class, and ESL teachers are only able to offer very limited amounts of time to individual students.

Where to begin?

In rural places, small expansions in local industries that rely heavily on immigrant and migrant labor can create major shifts in student populations, said Holly Hansen-Thomas, professor of bilingual education at Texas Womans University. And these teachers may not have the experience or the background to serve these emergent bilingual families that keep coming to work and to support the industry.

For rural school districts inexperienced in providing multilingual education, said Hansen-Thomas, professional development is the place to begin.

Federal grants are available to support multilingual certifications for teachers and administrators. For instance, the National Clearinghouse for English Language Acquisition offers a National Professional Development Program, which makes grants to colleges and universities to fund work on multilingual teaching skills for local educators. Hansen-Thomas also points to the U.S. Department of Educations Newcomer Tool Kit, a resource for rural educators looking to support recent-immigrant students and families.

In Indiana, colleges and universities are attempting to build manageable pathways for multilingual educators who might not be formally trained as teachers. Our pre-service teachers tend to be white and monolingual, said Stephanie Oudghiri, clinical associate professor at Purdues College of Education. Especially in the Midwest, as our demographics are changing, we need folks that are multilingual.

Experts like Cruz stress the importance of listening to non-native English speakers themselves when building out these programs. Weve had a lot of focus groups and community conversations and I cant tell you how many times people at the table have said, Thank you for including me, Cruz said.

I think oftentimes they do want to be at the table, they just dont know how, and so were making sure that were listening to them and then going from there, rather than the other way around.

This article first appeared on The Daily Yonder and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

The post Rural schools look for ways to bring more multilingual education into the curriculum appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
This photo taken on May 23, 2024 shows medical equipment donated by China at Assad University Hospital in Damascus, Syria. China donated much-needed medical equipment to a university hospital in the Syrian capital Damascus on Thursday, in a bid to bolster the country's health sector.

Assad University Hospital in Damascus received portable X-ray machines, ventilators, and oxygen concentrators from China. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

DAMASCUS, May 23 (Xinhua) -- China donated much-needed medical equipment to a university hospital in the Syrian capital Damascus on Thursday, in a bid to bolster the country's health sector.

Assad University Hospital in Damascus received portable X-ray machines, ventilators, and oxygen concentrators from China.

During the reception ceremony, Syrian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Bassam Ibrahim expressed gratitude for the donation, stressing the significance of international cooperation amidst Syria's challenging circumstances.

Chinese Ambassador to Syria Shi Hongwei said that China would continue to assist in Syria's reconstruction and development.

Nizar Abbas, director of the hospital, highlighted the significance of the donation in upgrading the hospital's emergency department.

This donation came as part of an initiative by China to support Syria's health sector, which includes a recent partnership involving the China International Development Cooperation Agency, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Syria to deliver healthcare support via mobile clinics. 

This photo taken on May 23, 2024 shows medical equipment donated by China at Assad University Hospital in Damascus, Syria. China donated much-needed medical equipment to a university hospital in the Syrian capital Damascus on Thursday, in a bid to bolster the country's health sector.

Assad University Hospital in Damascus received portable X-ray machines, ventilators, and oxygen concentrators from China. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
The Russell Group, which represents 24 top universities including Oxford and Cambridge, has apologised for the 'serious error' - William Conran/PA Archive

The Russell Group of elite universities has been forced to make an about-turn after likening those with gender-critical beliefs to anti-Semites and Islamophobes.

The organisation, which represents 24 top universities including Oxford and Cambridge, has apologised after being accused of stifling free speech with a consultation response which said universities should restrict gender-critical speech.

The Office for Students (OfS), which acts as the higher education regulator, launched a consultation on guidance on free speech on campus in March.

Universities and other organisations have been given until this week to respond to the consultation. In its response, the Russell Group said that universities would be expected to take steps to restrict unlawful speech.

The initial response went on to say examples including anti-Semitic, Islamophobic or gender-critical speech should be included in the OfSs guidance on free speech on campus.

The organisation later retracted the claim and changed its submission to read to suggest that the guidance include examples of transphobic speech, rather than gender-critical speech.

The group made the change after a furious backlash from academics and free speech campaigners who branded its submission unacceptable prejudice.

Professor Jo Phoenix, who won an employment tribunal for constructive dismissal over her gender-critical views, said the response was 'legally illiterate' - John Lawrence

Gender-critical beliefs are the conviction that people cannot change their biological sex.

Professor Jo Phoenix, who won an employment tribunal for constructive dismissal over her gender-critical views, told the Daily Mail the response was legally illiterate.

She said: Russell Group leadership either does not care about academic freedom or is legally illiterate, and it is unacceptable prejudice to class gender-critical beliefs in the same category as racism and Islamophobia.

The Free Speech Union, which advocates for freedom of speech and defends those whose right to expression has been violated, said: Forty per cent of the cases weve taken on this year have involved gender-critical feminists getting into trouble for saying something perfectly reasonable that a majority of people would agree with, e.g. male sex offenders shouldnt be housed in womens prisons, even if they claim to have transitioned.

New free speech duties

The consultation was launched over changes to legislation on free speech. Under existing legislation universities and colleges are required to take reasonably practicable steps to secure free speech on campus.

However laws passed in May last year impose new free speech duties on universities and colleges, their constituent institutions and some students unions.

The duties, which come into force in August, include a similar duty to take reasonably practicable steps to secure free speech on campus.

The new legislation will also give the OfS more powers and duties to regulate universities and colleges, and their students unions, on free speech issues.

A spokesperson for the Russell Group said: Our original submission to the OfS consultation on free speech guidance contained a serious error, incorrectly listing gender-critical speech as an example of unlawful speech. We apologise unreservedly for this error and we have republished our corrected summary.

This error in wording was a genuine mistake, and should not have been included in the document. We take our duties on freedom of speech seriously, and all our universities are committed to defending and upholding freedom of speech for everyone in their community.

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Russia has for the first time said Islamic State (IS) was behind the deadly terrorist attack on Moscow's Crocus City Hall, but still claims Ukraine played a role in assisting the attackers, Russian media reported on May 24.

Several gunmen opened fire at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, a Moscow suburb, on the evening of March 22, killing at least 145 people and injuring more than 500 others.

In comments reported by state-run RIA Novosti news agency, Alexander Bortnikov, the head of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), said the preparations, financing, attack, and retreat of those involved were "coordinated via the internet by members of Khorasan Province (IS-K)," a branch of IS active in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

"The investigation is ongoing, but it is already safe to say that Ukrainian military intelligence is directly involved in this attack," he alleged at a meeting of the Council of Heads of Security Agencies and Special Services of the CIS Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

"Upon completing the attack, the terrorists received clear instructions to move toward the Ukrainian border, where from the other side a 'window' had been prepared for them," he added without providing any evidence of Kyiv's involvement.

Ukraine has categorically denied any connection to the attack, and the White House has said there was no indication that Kyiv was behind it.

In the days following the attacks, Russian authorities detained around a dozen men. More than half of the suspects who have been detained are from Tajikistan, four of whom are accused of personally carrying out the attack.

They appeared in court showing clear signs of abuse at the hands of the Russian authorities.

Despite IS claiming responsibility, Putin, along with other top Russian officials, sought to pin the blame on Ukraine without providing any evidence.

Putin on March 25 said "radical Islamists" were behind the attack but did not mention IS specifically, claiming they were linked to Ukraine but without providing any evidence.

Read also: Opinion: Why ISIS attacked Russia and why Russia blames Ukraine

On March 31, Russia's Foreign Ministry called for the arrest and extradition of the head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), Vasyl Maliuk.

More than 50% of Russians believe that Ukrainian leadership is responsible for the shooting at the Crocus City Hall concert hall outside Moscow, the Financial Times (FT) reported on March 30, citing a survey by OpenMinds, an Anglo-Ukrainian online pollster.

Around 27% of respondents blamed the Islamic State (ISIS), while another 6% pointed to the so-called "collective West," namely the U.S., the U.K., and NATO.

The U.S. government warned Russia that the Crocus City Hall concert venue in suburban Moscow was a potential terrorist target over two weeks before the attack, the Washington Post reported on April 2.

Citing unnamed U.S. officials, the Washington Post said that the U.S. specifically identified Crocus City Hall as a possible ISIS target in their briefings to Moscow. The disclosure calls into question the Kremlin's claims that U.S. warnings were too "general" to prevent an attack.

Putin publicly dismissed Western warnings of potential terrorist attacks as "outright blackmail" and attempted "to destabilize our society" days before the mass shooting.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russia has figured out how to mess up Ukraine's crucial Starlink battlefield internet, report says

The Russian military has caused widespread disruptions to Starlink, The New York Times reported.

Starlink has proven crucial in military operations and for communications among Ukrainian troops.

Russia appears to have stronger electronic weapons to degrade the service.

Russia's jamming technology appears to be increasingly interfering with Elon Musk's Starlink service in Ukraine.

Since the beginning of the war, Ukraine's military has used SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service to communicate, coordinate attacks, and gather intelligence.

But for the first time, the Russian military has caused widespread disruptions to Starlink, creating serious problems for Ukraine's frontline troops, according to The New York Times.

Members of Ukraine's 92nd Assault Brigade, who spoke to The Times, said Starlink became extremely slow earlier this month as Russian troops advanced across the northern border.

"One day before the attacks, it just shut down," a soldier who goes by the call sign Ajax told the outlet. "It became super, super slow."

"We're losing the electronic warfare fight," Ajax said.

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine's digital minister, said in a recent interview that Russia is testing new, sophisticated tools to "disrupt the quality of Starlink connections because it's so important to us," The Times said.

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine's minister for digital transformation. Global Images Ukraine/Getty Images

He added that Ukraine is working with SpaceX to resolve the outages.

Brian Weeden, the chief program officer for the nonprofit Secure World Foundation, previously told BI that Russia has struggled to disrupt Ukraine's Starlink service.

This may be because its satellites operate at a far lower altitude than geostationary satellites, which means their signals are stronger and more concentrated.

Because Starlink satellites are closer to Earth, latency  the delay between a user's action and a network response  is shorter. This speeds up streaming, online gaming, videoconferencing, and other activities.

According to The Times, Russia may have gotten better at interfering with the signal by using more powerful and precise jammers.

A drone pilot who uses the call sign Kartel, told The Times that soldiers had to turn to text messaging apps because Starlink was so slow.

"During the first hours the front line was very dynamic. The enemy was moving. And we were moving as well. We needed to be fast in communicating," he said, adding that "everything was more time-consuming."

Though Russia's defense ministry is yet to comment, an official who leads the country's electronic warfare efforts told state media in April that the military had developed capabilities to counter Starlink, the outlet said.

The Wall Street Journal reported in April that Russia had illegally obtained Starlink devices from the black market to coordinate attacks in Ukraine.

The outlet said Russians were purchasing the technology from foreign countries, including the US, before smuggling it to Russian troops in Ukraine.

SpaceX, Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, and the Kremlin did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Russia loses almost half a million soldiers in its war against Ukraine

Stock photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Russia has already lost a total of almost 499,000 soldiers both killed and wounded; over the past day alone, the Russians lost 1,240 soldiers, 27 armoured combat vehicles and 13 tanks.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of the Russian forces between 24 February 2022 and 24 May 2024 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses  ed.]:

498,940 (+1,240) military personnel;

7,635 (+13) tanks;

14,775 (+27) armoured combat vehicles;

12,902 (+42) artillery systems;

1,080 (+3) multiple-launch rocket systems;

813 (+0) air defence systems;

356 (+1) fixed-wing aircraft;

326 (+0) helicopters;

10,401 (+10) strategic and tactical UAVs;

2,209 (+0) cruise missiles;

27 (+0) ships and boats;

1 (+0) submarines;

17,569 (+56) vehicles and tankers;

2,101 (+7) special vehicles and other equipment.

The information is being ascertained.

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Rescuers carry a body after a Russian missile hit a large printing house in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Thursday, May 23, 2024. Russian missiles slammed into Ukraines second-largest city in the northeast of the country and killed at least seven civilians early Thursday, officials said, as Kyivs army labored to hold off an intense cross-border offensive by the Kremlins larger and better-equipped forces. (AP Photo/Andrii Marienko)

KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  A nighttime Russian attack destroyed trains and tracks in Ukraines northeastern Kharkiv region, officials said Friday, and authorities organized the evacuation of children from the area as it is being pummeled by the Kremlins forces in a powerful new offensive.

The overnight strike on rolling stock and railway tracks also damaged buildings, according to Ukraines national railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia. No injuries were reported.

Authorities have evacuated more than 11,000 people from the Kharkiv region since Russia launched an offensive there on May 10, regional Gov. Oleh Syniehubov said. Officials on Friday announced the mandatory evacuation over the next 60 days of 123 orphans and children living without their parents in the area.

Russias Kharkiv push appears to be a coordinated new offensive that includes testing Ukrainian defenses in the Donetsk region further south, while also launching incursions in the northern Sumy and Chernihiv regions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the Kremlins army is attempting to create a buffer zone in the Kharkiv region to prevent Ukrainian cross-border attacks.

Ukraines problems have been mounting in recent months as it tries to hold out against its much bigger foe, and the war appears to be at a critical juncture.

The new Russian offensive is stretching thin Ukraines depleted ranks, exhausted by more than two years of war. Destroying the train network puts further pressure on the already overstretched Ukrainian army.

Crucial Western aid for Kyiv, especially air defense systems to stop Russias targeted destruction of the power grid, isnt arriving quickly enough. Also, most Western donors wont let Ukraine use the sophisticated long-range weapons they are providing to strike targets on Russian soil. That allows Moscow to assemble virtually unimpeded its troops for cross-border assaults, as well as deploy missile launchers to bombard Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said those limitations made possible an attack on the city of Kharkiv, the regions capital, on Thursday that killed seven civilians and wounded 21 others.

Zelenskyy said on social media that Ukraine has a shortage of air defense systems that are actually available in the world and a lack of long-range capabilities for our warriors and the complete inability to destroy the very source of Russian terror near our borders, including the missile launchers that actually hit Ukraine and the lives of our people.

The Ukrainian military claimed Friday it had stopped the Russian advance in the north of the Kharkiv region and were conducting counter-offensive operations.

A Russian troop build-up in the Sumy and Chernihiv regions, however, is ongoing, with daily air and artillery strikes, according to Ihor Prokhorenko, a general staff spokesman.

It was not possible to independently verify the claims.

Thursdays strike on Kharkiv using S-300 missiles hit a printing company, burning about 50,000 books, Zelenskyy said.

Serhii Polituchyi, owner of the Faktor-Druk printing plant, said the attack would reduce Ukraines book-printing capacity by 30-40%.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Fears that Russia would mount an attack on any NATO member are unfounded, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Friday, adding that the war in Ukraine that is now in its third year showed the limits of Russia's capabilities.

Hungary, a member of the European Union and NATO, has been refusing to provide military assistance to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Budapest also seeks to opt out of NATO's long-term plan to aid Ukraine, with its foreign minister calling it a "crazy mission".

Nationalist Orban, in power since 2010, has built his campaign for next month's European Parliament elections on the agenda of avoiding deeper involvement in the conflict, saying the vote could determine the course of war and peace in Europe.

"The Russian military is fighting a serious and difficult war with the Ukrainians," Orban told public radio in an interview. "If the Russians were strong enough to wrestle down the Ukrainians in one go, they would have done so already."

Orban said NATO's military capabilities far exceeded those of Ukraine, therefore it was unlikely that Russia or any other country would mount an attack against NATO.

"I do not consider it logical that Russia, which cannot even defeat Ukraine, would all of a sudden come and swallow the Western world whole," said Orban. "The chances of this are extremely slim."

Orban said he considered references to the Russian threat as a prelude to deeper Western involvement in the Ukraine war.

Relations between Budapest and Washington have soured because of Hungary's foot-dragging over the ratification of Sweden's NATO accession and also over Orban's warm ties with Moscow despite the war in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Gergely Szakacs; editing by Philippa Fletcher)
Russia uses African Corps in its offensive on Vovchansk  UK intelligence

UK Defence Intelligence has said that Russia is stepping up its war against Ukraine with resources previously earmarked for Africa, including the African Corps, which includes former Wagnerites.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence review dated 24 May, European Pravda writes

Details: The review indicates that over the past week, Russia has deployed units of the Ministry of Defence's (MoD) African Corps alongside regular Russian troops and Storm Z units during the offensive on Vovchansk.

"The Russian MOD's Africa Corps, which emerged in December 2023, consists of more than 2,000 regular soldiers and officers, as well as experienced mercenaries, many of whom previously served in the Wagner Group. Africa Corps detachments have highly likely previously deployed to Syria, Libya, Burkina Faso and Niger," the review says.

Russia's MoD almost certainly redeployed African Corps units to the Ukrainian border during April 2024 in preparation for this offensive. UK intelligence said it is highly likely that Russia is reinforcing its war against Ukraine with resources previously earmarked for Africa.

Background:

The day before, UK intelligence expressed confidence in the destruction of the Russian corvette Tsiklon, a Kalibr cruise missile carrier, as a result of a Ukrainian strike on the port of occupied Sevastopol on 19 May.

Earlier, UK intelligence spoke about the growth of Ukraine's economy due to exports via the Black Sea.

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"I hope with more visits, cross-cultural exchanges, we will have better relationships. I think we have so much potential to do great good in the world," said the president of an American university during a visit in China.








Russia uses Moldova as testing ground for new influence technologies  Moldovan Foreign minister

Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihail Popsoi has said that Russia is using his country to test its new influence and interference technologies, intending to apply them elsewhere afterwards.

Source: Popsoi in an interview with 24-hour Romanian TV news channel Digi24, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Answering the question of why Moldova has become a Russian target in hybrid warfare, Popsoi said there are several explanations.

Quote: "One explanation may be its geographical location near Ukraine, while another is Russian interests and the willingness of various parties in Moldova to betray national interests and citizens to promote a foreign agenda."

More details: He added that Moldova is also susceptible to hybrid threats, given its vulnerability in combating disinformation and in cyberspace.

"Our institutions still remain vulnerable overall, including in terms of corruption. Our citizens have long been targeted by propaganda, living in a hostile propaganda environment.

All these factors make us vulnerable, and Russia is using the Republic of Moldova as a breeding ground, as a Petri dish [laboratory glassware - ed.], to test its new influence and interference technologies. Then, if they prove effective, to use them elsewhere," Popsoi noted.

He called on Moldova's partners to help provide resistance so that these hybrid warfare tactics are not exported to other countries.

Background:

Recently, UK intelligence warned that Russia plans to conduct a wave of hybrid attacks in Moldova ahead of the presidential elections and the referendum on EU membership in the fall of this year.

Prior to that, Alexandru Musteata, director of the Moldovan Intelligence and Security Service, stated that Russia would attempt to interfere in the presidential and parliamentary elections and provoke social conflicts in Gagauzia and Transnistria to undermine Moldova's accession to the EU.

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Russia has withdrawn its ambassador in Armenia to Moscow to conduct consultations without specifying the reason for this decision.

Source: European Pravda with reference to the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia

Details: A short statement on behalf of Russian Foreign Ministrys spokesperson Maria Zakharova has been published on the website. The statement said that Sergey Kopirkin, Russian ambassador to Armenia, was withdrawn from Armenia to Moscow on 24 May for consultations.

Russias decision is likely linked to an increasing tension in the relations between Moscow and Yerevan due to Armenia distancing itself from the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a military-political block de-facto chaired by Russia, and is getting closer to the West.

Background:

At the beginning of May Armenia stated that further on it would not participate in the funding of the activity of CSTO.

Then the Kremlin claimed that Moscow and Yerevan had coordinated the withdrawal of Russian troops from a number of regions of Armenia but Russian forces would still remain on Armenian borders with Turkiye and Iran.

Recently Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, stated that at least two CSTO member states had helped Azerbaijan to prepare for the war against Armenia which started in 2020.

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50,000 books were burned in the Russian missile strike on the Factor-Druk printing house in the Osnovianskyi district of Kharkiv.

Source: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Quote: "Yesterday's Russian strike on the Kharkiv region, which killed and injured people, destroyed a printing house and burned 50,000 books, demonstrates that Russia is at war with humanity and all aspects of normal life."

Russians launch missile attack on printing house

IHOR LEPTUGA / NAKYPILO.UA

50,000 books destroyed

IGOR LEPTUGA / NAKYPILO.UA

The day before, Serhii Bolvinov, the Head of Kharkiv Oblast Police Investigation Department, said that seven employees of the printing house were killed at their workplace. "They were printing children's books," he said.

The printing house produced many children's books

IGOR LEPTUGA / NAKYPILO.UA

Factor-Druk published books for children and adults

IHOR LEPTUH / NAKYPILO.UA

"Five women and two men  each of them were just doing their job. This printing house produced books for children, magazines, school diaries, newspapers, and much more. Now there is no such enterprise in Kharkiv," Bolvinov added.

Factor-Druk printing house in Kharkiv

@SERHII_BOLVINOV / X

He said that the bodies were so badly burnt in the fire that only two of them could be identified. The other five will be identified using DNA samples.

Books destroyed in the fire

@SERHII_BOLVINOV / X

During a massive attack on Kharkiv on Thursday, 23 May, the Russians hit the printing house of local publishers Vivat. The police reported that the Russians fired missiles from an S-300 anti-aircraft system, and three missiles hit the workshop and the surrounding area.

Yuliia Orlova confirmed to UP.Kultura that the hit occurred at the Factor-Druk printing house, which mostly prints Vivat books. The printing house and the publishers are part of the same holding company.

In addition to Vivat books, Factor-Druk produced books for KSD, Ranok, Folio, Svichado, Zelenyi Pes and other publishers.

Other attacks on Kharkiv printing houses

The printing house Hurov & K burned down on 20 March as a result of a Russian strike on the industrial zone of Kharkiv. Books published by Chas Maistriv, Crocus and Shkola, Dodo jigsaw puzzles and other items were printed there.

The Aurora printing house, located in the same building on the floor below, was also completely destroyed.

Earlier, the Budynok Druku printing house was damaged in yet another Russian attack on Kharkiv.

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Russian attacks against Ukraine killed at least 10 people and injured at least 48 over the past day, the vast majority of them in Kharkiv Oblast, regional officials reported early on May 24.

An S-300 missile attack against Kharkiv hit a local printing shop, setting it on fire and killing seven of its employees. Twenty-one other civilians were injured in the city, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

Throughout May 23 and overnight, two more people were reportedly killed and 23 were injured, including an 11-year-old boy, in Kharkiv and elsewhere in the oblast.

In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Russian drone and artillery strikes against the Nikopol district injured two civilians and damaged a four-story building, a shop, and cars, Governor Serhii Lysak said.

Russian attacks against Donetsk Oblast injured two residents of Toretsk, according to Governor Vadym Filashkin.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, one man was killed in a Russian attack against the Polohy district, Governor Ivan Fedorov said.

Chernihiv, Kherson, Luhansk, Mykolaiv, and Sumy oblasts also came under attack, but no casualties were reported.

Read also: Russias latest offensive into Kharkiv Oblast is stretching Ukrainian defenses

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Russian daytime missile attack on Kharkiv kills at least seven people

Rubble lies on the street after a bomb hit in the residential district of Oleksyvka. Nicolas Cleuet/Le Pictorium via ZUMA Press/dpa

The death toll in a daytime Russian missile attack on the north-eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on Thursday rose to at least seven, with 16 others injured, Kharkiv military governor Oleh Syniehubov reported.

Syniehubov said on his Telegram channel that there had been at least 15 strikes by Russian missiles. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said that the strikes had hit transport infrastructure and a private company.

A renewed attack later hit Kharkiv and Derhachi, a town to the north-west, causing a further 13 injuries.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the "extremely brutal attack," which took place during peak traffic and not at night, as is usual.

Zelensky said the Russians were exploiting the lack of adequate air defences in a post on social media platform X. Zelensky also said that reliable weapons were needed to strike Russian positions just across Ukraine's border.

Zelensky called for permission to use weapons supplied by the United States and others to hit Russian troops in those areas. For example, Russian forces have recently made incursions across the border into the Kharkiv region.

Ukraine's allies have provided high-tech weapons on condition that they not be used to strike Russian territory.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that Western arms deliveries would not prevent Russia from pursuing its war aims.

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city by population before the war, has come under repeated aerial attack from drones, missiles and glide bombs.

Some two weeks ago, Russian forces advanced across the border in the region and are now less than 20 kilometres from the city's outskirts.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has insisted that the aim is not to occupy Kharkiv, but rather to create a buffer zone to prevent Ukrainian forces from mounting attacks on Belgorod and other Russian cities close to the border.

Military observers say, however, that the Russian forces are aiming to penetrate in depth, rather than along the wide front that would be needed for a buffer zone.

An attempt to seize Kharkiv was repelled in the early days of the invasion more than two years ago, with Russian forces suffering heavy losses.

Late on Thursday, at least two Russian civilians were killed by a missile attack on the Crimean capital, the Moscow-appointed governor wrote on Telegram.

"As a result of a missile attack by the enemy on the peninsula in the Simferopol region, two bystanders were killed," Crimean governor Sergey Aksyonov wrote.

Simferopol is more than 200 kilometres away from the front line.

An empty commercial property near the city of Alushta was also struck, he said.

There was initially no official reaction from Kiev.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian drone attacks forced the temporary closure of airports in the cities of Kazan and Nizhnekamsk in Russia's Tatarstan republic.

Media reports said that air defences had downed a light aircraft of type Aeroprakt A-22 that had been converted into an autonomous aircraft, while the Defence Ministry in Moscow referred only to a drone that had been shot down.

Tatarstan has previously come under Ukrainian drone attack, causing the airport in Kazan, the republic's capital, to close for a spell. Kazan lies around 1,000 kilometres from Ukrainian-controlled territory.

The city is due to host the BRICS summit between October 22 and 24. Russia is host this year to the conference of major economies outside the Western orbit, including China, India and Brazil. The organization is seen as a geopolitical rival to the G7.

Military inspect a bomb crater between rubble after a bomb hit the residential district of Oleksyvka. Nicolas Cleuet/Le Pictorium via ZUMA Press/dpa
Partisans of the Crimean underground resistance movement Atesh reported on 24 May that the Russians have begun evacuating part of their personnel from the city of Dzhankoi and restoring airfields in the depths of temporarily occupied Crimea.

Source: Atesh on Telegram

Details: Members of the movement from various units of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation report that Russian troops have begun evacuating some of their personnel from Dzhankoi. At the same time, the Russians have actively started to reconstruct and, likely, to upgrade airfields deep in Crimeas territory. This concerns the Kirovske airfield near Feodosiia and the Baherove airfield not far from Kerch.

Collage "Atesh"

Quote: "However, despite all their efforts, they will be unable to build enclosed shelters for their aircraft anytime soon. The reason lies in the complex technological processes, the high cost of construction, and the significant time required.

The actions of the occupiers indicate a desire to disperse their troops and equipment in Crimea in anticipation of new successful attacks by Ukraines Defence Forces."

Background:

On 24 May, Atesh agents reported that the communications centre of the Russians (military unit 28735) had been hit in the temporarily occupied city of Alushta in Crimea.

Explosions were reported in a number of cities in temporarily occupied Crimea on the evening of 23 May. At least five explosions were heard in Alushta.

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MACAO, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Government departments and universities of south China's Macao Special Administrative Region and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on Friday signed seven cooperation deals covering economy, trade, culture, tourism, environmental protection, and traditional Chinese medicine.

Addressing the event, Macao's Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng said that Macao actively cooperates with Guangxi in comprehensively integrating into the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, supporting Guangxi in becoming an important strategic hinterland of the Greater Bay Area connecting Hong Kong, Macao, and ASEAN countries in terms of industrial, innovation, supply, and financial chains.

Liu Ning, secretary of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Regional Committee of the Communist Party of China, noted Guangxi's role in providing labor, building materials, agricultural products, electricity, and other resource elements of the Greater Bay Area.

He Ningying, chair of the Guangxi Youth Friendship Association of Macao, said that Guangxi plays an important role in regional cooperation and has also injected new impetus and vitality into the development of the regional economy. 
Russia's new defence minister follows Putin in visit to Belarus

Andrei Belousov, Russia's new Defence Minister, has arrived in Belarus.

Source: Belaruski Hajun, an independent Belarusian military monitoring media outlet

Details: Belaruski Hajun reported that a Tu-214PU-SBUS with registration number RA-64530 landed at Machulishchy airfield on 24 May.

This aircraft belongs to Russia's Defence Ministry and is equipped with a special on-board communication device, the SBUS-214. Belaruski Hajun has information that Andrei Belousov, Russia's new Defence Minister, arrived in Minsk on board this plane.

The media outlet further noted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Alexei Likhachev, Head of Russia's state nuclear company Rosatom, are also currently in Belarus.

Background: On 23 May, Russian leader Vladimir Putin travelled to Belarus, where he met with Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, in the evening.

The Kremlin press service said that during the talks, "it is planned to discuss the most burning issues of the further development of Russian-Belarusian relations of strategic partnership and alliance, the course and prospects of integration cooperation within the Union State, as well as key topics on the international agenda."

In addition, Putin said that during his visit to Belarus, he intends to discuss security issues with Lukashenko, as well as Belarus' participation in exercises with non-strategic nuclear weapons.

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WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 23: Dr. Jonathan Holloway, President, of Rutgers University testifies at a hearing called "Calling for Accountability: Stopping Antisemitic College Chaos" before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce on Capitol Hill on May 23, 2024 in Washington, DC. University leaders are being asked to testify by House Republicans about how colleges have responded to pro-Palestinian protests and allegations of antisemitism on their campuses. (Photo by Michael A. McCoy/Getty Images)

Three weeks after protestors at Rutgers University in North Brunswick peacefully dismantled their short-lived Gaza solidarity encampment, the universitys president faced intense questioning from Republicans in Washington, D.C., demanding to know why college officials arent doing more to combat antisemitism.

Rutgers President Jonathan Holloway on Thursday again defended the universitys decision to end the protest by negotiating with protestors rather than sending police to break up the encampments. Holloway stressed to lawmakers the importance of building trust with students and promoting curiosity and education.

We made a choice. That choice was to engage our students through dialogue as our first option instead of police actions, he said. We saw what transpired on other universities and sought a different way.

Holloways testimony in front of the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce  where he was joined by Northwestern University President Michael Schill and University of California at Los Angeles Chancellor Gene Block  came as GOP lawmakers continue to grill university presidents over the Gaza encampments that have become flashpoints for growing unease with the war in Gaza.

It was the third time lawmakers have invited university leaders to testify on the Hill about the campus protests. And it was the second time this month Holloway has taken the hot seat to face questioning from lawmakers. Members of the Legislatures budget committees interrogated him about the encampments on May 9.

The university leaders on Thursday said they agree that attacks on Jewish people are increasing on college campuses and across the country, but they disputed that their colleges are hotbeds for antisemitism. Holloway said every instance of discrimination on campus is investigated and involves law enforcement, from campus police to the FBI when necessary.

Rep. Virginia Foxx, a Republican from North Carolina and chairwoman of the committee, scolded the college officials for their agreements with protestors and for not taking enough disciplinary action against faculty and students involved. Four Rutgers have been suspended, and 19 others are under investigation, Holloway said.

Each of you should be ashamed of your decisions that allowed antisemitic encampments to endanger Jewish students, Foxx said. Mr. Schill and Dr. Holloway, you should be double ashamed for capitulating to the antisemitic rule breakers.

University leaders, including Holloway, have expressed concerns over balancing students free speech rights and public safety. Holloway said when he learned via an Instagram post that student protestors planned a 7 a.m. protest to disrupt finals  which he called a wild violation of the agreement they made earlier that week to keep the encampment quiet  he decided to order the encampment to disperse.

Some schools responded to their protests by calling in police to break them up. Holloway stressed the importance of building trust with students.

Rutgers officials gave in to some of the protestors 10 demands in exchange for them dismantling their encampment, like accepting 10 displaced Palestinian students to finish their education, creating an Arab cultural center, and reviewing the schools relationship with Birzeit University in the West Bank.

Much of Thursdays questioning of Holloway came from Rep. Donald Norcross (D-01), New Jerseys only representative on the panel. He and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-05) have criticized Holloway for not doing enough to ensure Jewish students feel safe on campus, and for leaving Jewish students out of negotiations with the protestors.

There are rules in all types of protests on college campuses, no matter what the reason is. Ive participated in protests over my lifetime, and when I crossed the line, I paid the consequences. So what I want to dig into today is what are those lines, when were they crossed, and how you reacted, Norcross said.

Over the summer, Rutgers will partner with the Anti-Defamation League to implement new training for students and staff and address concerns from a Jewish faculty and staff group that asked the university in December to share information on antisemitism on campus and beef up security around Jewish organizations on campus. Holloway said those requests are being acted on post haste.

Holloway also took heat from Republicans who targeted the Center for Security, Race, and Rights, which is based out of Rutgers Newark campus. The center has hosted controversial figures, including a speaker who was convicted on federal charges for conspiring to provide material to terrorist organizations and was invited to speak on the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Holloway said he often doesnt agree with the center and thinks some of their ideas are wildly offensive. But on a campus of 100,000 faculty and students, there are events hes not always aware of, he admitted. He said he has no plans to close the center.

If youre not willing to close and defund this cesspool of hate, the state of New Jersey should, Foxx said.

The post Rutgers president takes heat in Congress over handling of Gaza encampments appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters would be barred from spending state funds on a national publicity contract with Washington, D.C.-based Vought Strategies under spending limits a Republican lawmaker said he would introduce as part of the fiscal 2025 state budget.

Their services arent an appropriate use of public money because they prop up Walters political aspirations, former state auditor Gary Jones, House Speaker Charles McCall, and others said.

Walters hired Vought Strategies to book media interviews and write op-eds for $200 per hour. The initial contract is for four months with three one-year extensions possible, for a potential total of at least $210,000.

It could be substantially more. Voughts bid for $5,000 per month, dated Nov. 9, was made part of the contract as an attachment. Also incorporated in the contract is a more detailed pricing proposal dated Nov. 14 totaling $5,000 per week.

The contract says the more recent version supersedes earlier versions.

The Oklahoma Department of Education paid Vought Strategies $20,000 for September to January, before the contract went into effect, and agreed to $30,000 for the initial contract period of March through June, public records show.

Oklahoma schools Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks to the press after a school board meeting at the Oklahoma Capitol complex in Oklahoma City, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, wants to end that type of agency spending. McBride proposed spending limits tied to the fiscal 2025 budget, including one to prohibit the Education Department and Board of Education from spending state money on third-party services related to advertising, securing media interviews, public relations, or public promotion.

Additional spending limits proposed by McBride, who is serving his final term in the House due to term limits and is chairman of the Appropriations and Budget Education subcommittee, relate to federal education funding.

McCall, R-Atoka, said in March he supports placing spending limits on Walters agency.

My view of it is you should not be spending state funds, taxpayer dollars, for personal promotion, McCall said. Im sure the House, this cycle, will certainly commit to a limits bill, including the education budget, to specifically prohibit that type of expenditure going forward. But Im certainly very surprised to hear that money is being used for that anywhere in state government.

Even Gov. Kevin Stitt, a staunch supporter of Walters, in response to questions about the Vought contract, said all taxpayer spending should be scrutinized and that its a fair point to ask questions of every agency that hires PR firms.

Ryan Walters says the contract is needed for teacher recruitment. But pitches made do not address teacher recruitment

Walters has said the contract is needed to help with teacher recruitment. None of the email pitches obtained by Oklahoma Watch and FOX 25 in a joint investigation published March 13 address that topic. Vought Strategies pitched interviews about fentanyl and the southern border, drag queens in the classroom, teacher unions, library books and his appointment of Chaya Raichik, the far-right social media influencer behind Libs of TikTok, to a library advisory committee.

Theres a big difference between hiring a PR firm to do public relations for the state and hiring one to promote yourself on a national level, McBride said.

The contract went through the states competitive bidding process but failed to attract any competition. The purpose of competitive bidding is to prevent favoritism and corruption, and save taxpayers money.

Oklahoma Watch, at oklahomawatch.org, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that covers public-policy issues facing the state.

The Department of Education issued a request for proposals in October for national media communications. After a three-week window to submit bids (one week shorter than recommended), Vought submitted the only proposal.

The agencys only vendor qualification was 10 years of experience placing national media bookings.

More: OSDE signs $50K contract with Texas firm that produced videos attacking teachers' union, trans students

Education department staff pushed for approval of Vought, even though her firm lacked the necessary insurance, emails obtained under the Oklahoma Open Records Act revealed.

The agency is urgently in need of these services, the departments procurement officer, Rebecca Thompson, wrote in a Feb. 12 email to the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services, known as OMES.

The agencys legal counsel, Bryan Cleveland, had objected because Vought Strategies didnt have any liability insurance. At one point, the entire contract was put on hold. Ultimately, Vought provided a certificate demonstrating a $1 million policy for workers compensation and employers liability. That fell short of the states requirements, but the agency accepted the additional risk.

The contract calls for a liability policy limit of $5 million.

A different contract was awarded at about the same time under similar circumstances. Precision Outreach was the only bidder for a contract to produce videos and social media posts. The company, based in Texas, had already worked for the agency, producing the anti-teacher-union video shown at a State Board of Education meeting May 25 that infuriated teachers and parents in the room, some of whom walked out in protest, as well as a video that implied transgender students are a threat to school safety. The agency paid Precision Outreach $22,500 last year for that work.

On March 4, the Department awarded Precision Outreach a contract estimated at $50,000 to create 10 social media posts and two videos per month for $7,500 a month, according to records obtained by FOX 25 (KOKH-TV). Its for the same timeframe as Voughts contract.

Contracts go to political pals

Mary Vought, president and founder of Vought Strategies, is a political pal of Walters right-hand man and campaign manager, Matt Langston.

Also connected to Langston is Jess Fields, head of Texas-based Precision Outreach.

I personally do think its very questionable the association of these groups with Matt Langston, McBride said.

Langston is the agencys chief policy advisor and Walters campaign manager.

Walters campaign has paid Langstons company, Engage Right, a total of $21,500 since 2022, expenditure reports show. The most recent payment was $5,000 on March 4.

Vought and Langston have traveled in the same political circles since at least 2011, when they both worked for U.S. Senator Ron Johnson.

Vought recently joined The Heritage Foundation, the conservative think tank behind Project 2025, a framework for ultra-conservative policy changes written for the potential return of President Donald Trump. One of the main tenets of Project 2025 is eliminating the U.S. Department of Education by moving some programs to other federal agencies and shuttering others.

Voughts husband is Russell Vought, a close ally of Trump who served in his administration. Russ Vought has been a key advisor to the House Freedom Caucus, a faction of hard-right Republican lawmakers. Hes president of The Center for Renewing America, a think tank preparing for a second Trump term that is developing policies aligned with Christian nationalist ideas, according to Politico.

Fields, the owner of Precision Outreach, unsuccessfully ran for a House seat in Texas in 2016. Fields senior campaign advisor was Langston. Fields campaign paid more than $100,000 to Axiom Strategies, where Langston was vice president, and $9,000 to Matt Langston directly, FOX 25 reported.

Claims of contract extension were untrue

In a March interview with FOX 25 reporter Wendy Suares, Education Department Spokesman Dan Isett said some email pitches pre-date the March 6 contract because the department had an earlier contract. They didnt. The department used its discretionary spending authority to hire Vought temporarily.

When asked about rules that bar bidders from communicating with the agency until a contract is finalized, Isett told FOX 25 he had an email from central purchasing saying the agency could legally continue working with Vought while competitive bidding was underway. OMES conducted a thorough search of its emails at the request of Oklahoma Watch and didnt locate an email that fits that description.

The Department of Education has only partially responded to Oklahoma Watchs requests under the Oklahoma Open Records Act that would provide answers to questions about the contract. A March 13 request for contracts and payment records has been partially filled; a request filed April 26 for communications with Vought Strategies remains unfilled.

Isett did not respond to Oklahoma Watchs request to interview Langston, Vought or David Martin, the departments director of accountability, who oversaw some aspects of the contract. Vought did not return an emailed request for an interview or clarification on payments.

Jennifer Palmer has been a reporter with Oklahoma Watch since 2016 and covers education. Contact her at (405) 761-0093 or jpalmer@oklahomawatch.org. Follow her on Twitter @jpalmerOKC.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters' Vought Strategies contract should be banned: lawmaker
The Sacramento City Unified School District is committed to ensuring all our students have equitable access to high-quality education in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. We are a district that values diversity of people and thought, encourages the free exchange of ideas, and supports the rights of students and staff to have their voices heard - all with deference to the law.

When an issue arises that can cause harm, we act. Such was the case when the C.K. McClatchy student newspaper, The Prospector, published a feature entitled What did you say? Student journalists said they intended to share the weirdest stuff that students have overheard on campus. One of the quotes listed among their favorites was Hitlers got some good ideas.

Opinion

Aware of the current global climate and mindful of the right to a free press, the schools Principal, Andrea Egan, personally addressed the journalism class the day after the anonymous quote was published. She praised the students for their overall great work. She shared with them that The Prospector has been in publication since the school opened in the 1930s and has a reputation for printing well-researched, thoughtful, and award-winning journalism. She encouraged the students to work to hold themselves accountable to that reputation.

The controversy involving the McClatchy student-run newspaper has never been about censorship or free speech; this was and remains about ensuring the safety of all students and staff, while also addressing a personnel matter. The principal asked the students to reflect, not to retract. While some may characterize it differently, at Sacramento City Unified we call this teaching. Principal Egan has approached this highly sensitive issue through an educators lens, and she has guided her school community through this unfortunate ordeal with an extraordinary combination of grace, empathy, and professionalism.

The Sacramento Bee reported the journalism advisor was put on leave. All personnel matters are handled by the SCUSD Human Resources Department and not at the site level. It is SCUSD policy to never comment publicly on personnel matters out of respect for the privacy of our valued staff. While holding firm to our policy, we will share that no action has been taken against an employee or student because of the original comments printed in The Prospector.

Its time for us to shift this conversation toward healing for the McClatchy community, and Principal Egan has initiated actionable steps toward repair with community and campus leaders. As a district, we will continue to support McClatchy and Principal Egan in her steadfast and unwavering commitment to her students, parents, and staff.

Lavinia Phillips is the Board of Education President for the Sacramento City Unified School District
Advocates from Moms Demand Action and the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence celebrate the House Judiciary Committee's decision to advance two safe weapons storage bills to the House floor on May 23, 2024. To the far right is Rhode Island Second Amendment Coalition President Frank Saccoccio, who was not pleased with the committee's vote. (Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current)

PROVIDENCE  Gun safety advocates erupted in applause Thursday evening as the House Judiciary Committee voted 9-5 to advance two Democratic bills seeking to strengthen the states gun storage law to the State House floor.

This is a big deal, this will save lives, Tony Morettini, a volunteer for Moms Demand Action Rhode Island, said after the vote.

The amended legislation sponsored by Rep. Justine Caldwell of East Greenwich and Sen. Pamela Lauria of Barrington requires that all firearms not in use by the owner or another authorized user be stored in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant lock.

Unsafe storage of guns would also be a civil offense punishable by a fine of up to $250 for the first offense and $1,000 for the second. A subsequent violation would be punishable by up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $500. Under existing state law, which was passed in 1995, gun owners can be fined up to $1,000 if a loaded firearm is left within a childs reach  but only if the child injures themselves or others.

Under the proposed amended law, if a child or a person prohibited from using the firearm is injured, the gun owner could face a first-degree charge of criminal storage of a firearm with up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

The advancement of the bill was especially personal for David Viens of Johnston, whose 16-year-old son Dillon died in 2022 of a gunshot to his right eye from a weapon that was not safely stored.

My son would be alive today if his friends gun was properly stored, Viens said in an interview, fighting through tears. To come to the State House and fight for justice, its not easy  very overwhelming.

David Viens of Johnston watches as members of the House Judiciary Committee vote to advance legislation mandating safe weapons storage to the House Floor on May 23, 2024. Viens 16-year-old son Dillon died in 2022 from a gun that was improperly stored. (Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current)

Voting against the bill were Democrats David Bennett of Warwick, Arthur Corvese of North Providence, and Thomas Noret of Coventry. Republicans David Place of Burrillville and Sherry Roberts of West Greenwich also opposed the legislation.

Rep. Jason Knight, a Barrington Democrat who co-sponsored Caldwells legislation, was not present for Thursdays vote.

Caldwell and Laurias bills will likely be on the House calendar for Tuesday, May 28, said chamber spokesperson Larry Berman.

Opponents of the legislation have repeatedly argued that requiring guns to be stored in a locked container could delay their efforts to protect themselves and their families. To address this, Caldwell said the requirement would not apply if the firearm is being carried or can be readily retrieved and used.

We wanted to make these as clear as possible since these bills are more likely to be challenged in court, she said in an interview before the vote.

Laurias bill, which was passed by the Senate in March, has also since been amended to include this change. Should her legislation clear the House next week, it will have to go before the full Senate again.

But Rhode Island Second Amendment Coalition President Frank Saccoccio said the language in Caldwells legislation is still too vague.

If you go from one judge to another judge, youre going to get differing opinions, he said. If I get up to answer the door and leave a gun on the table, the judge may find that to not be readily accessible  its another encroachment into Second Amendment rights without proper safeguards.

Viens said he understands the opposition from Saccoccio and other gun owners, but said keeping weapons properly stored just comes down to common sense.

If youre not home, just lock your guns up, he said.

The post Safe weapons storage bill advances to House floor appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
For sale: Unspoiled island in Biscayne Bay. Will it be a home for birds or billionaires?

A rare unspoiled private island in Biscayne Bay has gone up for sale, boasting views of Miamis skyline, no traffic or people and  thanks to a residential zoning designation  the chance to become Miamis most exclusive address.

The move has alarmed environmental groups, which have long campaigned to buy and preserve Bird Key and two small adjacent islands that provide a haven for the creatures that inspired its name  herons, pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds and other coastal species. Several sleek black diving cormorants, along with an osprey, roosted in the branches during a morning visit on Thursday.

The potential sale of Bird Key  or 1 Bird Key, as it is now listed on real estate websites  has set off a scramble to scrape together cash to keep the island just south of the 79th Street Causeway out of the hands of developers.

Its long-time owner, Finlay Matheson, said he had decided it was finally time to put the rare piece of real estate on the market. He has previously flirted with the concept of selling to an environmental group or government agency. But after birds largely stopped nesting on the islands in 2019, he said, the offers to conserve it dwindled.

View of Miami skyline including the Bird Key, a private island on Biscayne Bay that is now for sale as environmentalists are upset, because developers could build on the island, displacing all the birds, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Im 80 years old and I bought it almost 40 years ago, he told the Miami Herald. The real estate market is hot in Miami, and now is the right time to sell it.

Matheson isnt your typical landowner. Hes a member of the pioneering Matheson family, which has a long history of protecting wild lands in Miami-Dade, including donating some 800 acres to create Crandon Park as well as the land for Miami-Dades first public park, Matheson Hammock

He first bought the Bird Key property, which includes 37 acres of surrounding bay bottom, in 1986 for $36,000. After 40 years, hes now listing it for $31.5 million.

Hes explored a number of options over the years , telling the Herald in 2012 that Bird Keys highest and best use was for some developer to buy and agree to preserve it  in exchange for permission to build in a less sensitive wetland, an exchange known as mitigation. Matheson said he also tried to sell it to the state a decade ago, but the deal fell through. And he he said he has since grown tired of waiting for environmentalists to take it off wish lists and make an actual offer.

For decades, Miami-Dade County has had Bird Key on its list of environmentally endangered lands, properties it hopes to buy and save from development. Last year, the county said, it offered to purchase Bird Key from Matheson through its nonprofit partner, The Nature Conservancy.

A Cormorant seen around the Bird Key, a private island on Biscayne Bay that is now for sale as environmentalists are upset, because developers could build on the island, displacing all the birds, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

According to TNC, the offer wasnt accepted. According to Matheson, he never heard an actual number, and the initial talks never materialized into a real offer.

Thats what prompted me to put it on the market. Lets see what the market does, he said.

Despite both sides acknowledging discussing a potential sale in 2023, Matheson said he has never had a formal offer from any environmental group or government agency to preserve the island.

Nobody has ever  from the county, the city or the state  has made an offer or indicated that they wanted to buy it, he said. Nobody has stepped forward.

A race to buy

Matheson listed the island for sale on April 26, a move first reported by the Miami New Times, and he said its received a lot of attention from potential buyers in recent weeks, including some international buyers.

That has environmentalists worried.

They see the island as an important refuge for birds across the country, and the oldest recorded rookery in Biscayne Bay. The island is a stop on the Atlantic Flyway, a superhighway for migrating birds traversing North America. On Bird Key, they have a chance to rest, away from predators like raccoons and outdoor cats.

We consider those islands really important marine sanctuaries, said Lauren Jonaitis, senior conservation director of the Tropical Audubon Society. Theyre extremely important and if we lose them to development, we wont see as many birds.

View of birds flying around the Bird Key, a private island on Biscayne Bay that is now for sale as environmentalists are upset, because developers could build on the island, displacing all the birds, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Birds of all kinds, including state-threatened little blue herons and great blue herons, have called Bird Key home for decades. But in 2019, the rookery collapsed. Since then, no nests have been documented.

In the most recent survey of the island, done by the state on March 28, researchers found five bird species there, including little blue herons, but no nests. Nearby spots like Mangrove Island had dozens more birds and 31 nests.

Matheson said he took a prospective buyer out to the island last week and saw no birds. However, Jonaitis said, that doesnt mean birds have abandoned the key altogether. The Herald, on an early morning visit, counted a handful of species and birds, including what appeared to be a yellow-crowned night heron emerging from inside the mangrove forest carrying a stick in its bill  sometimes an indication of nesting.

Just because the rookery crashed doesnt mean they wont come back, she said.

An ideal situation, Jonaitis said, would be to preserve the island for conservation  and for Matheson to sell the property at a price appropriate for that purpose.

What, exactly, is considered an appropriate price is at the heart of the debate. Matheson said hes open to a reasonable offer from a nonprofit or government group, several of whom are already working on one.

We are hopeful we can find a solution that can be acceptable to both parties. We know that the owner and the county have an interest in protecting the area, Roberto Torres, TNCs Miami-Dade Project Manager, said in a statement.

A Pelican bird and an Iguana are seen around the Bird Key, a private island on Biscayne Bay that is now for sale as environmentalists are upset, because developers could build on the island, displacing all the birds, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

While Matheson wouldnt name a number, he noted the only comparable property hes aware of was a plot of six acres of submerged land  potentially available to fill in with rock and build homes on top of  in the Bay near Coral Gables. Two developers snapped up the plot for $445,000 from an 81-year-old widow, then turned around and sold it to the state in 2007 for $7.2 million, according to Herald archives.

Miami-Dade County has appraised Bird Key in the past, to help inform its offer last year, but did not respond to a public records request from the Miami Herald to release the documents

Figuring out a purchase price is one thing. The other challenge is finding the money. In recent weeks, multiple environmental groups across South Florida have been rifling through their options  maybe state funding? federal funding? local philanthropy?  to see whats on the table.

Laura Reynolds, a board member of Friends of Biscayne Bay, said its a good time for environmentally-minded billionaires to step up.

This needs to be a public treasure. It already is and needs to be protected from any kind of development proposal, she said. This town has a lot of capital, lets put it together in protecting this gem.

Can you build there?

The reason environmentalists are so nervous about the new For Sale sign on Bird Key is the islands other rare property  its zoned residential, at least by Miami-Dade County.

A new buyer could  at least, conceivably  build their own hideaway on the island, albeit an off-grid one with no connection to water, sewer or electricity.

It is private property. Were not a communist country. I do have some property rights, Matheson said. Whoever buys the island, they have property rights.

However, all sides acknowledge, that could prove difficult  and extremely expensive.

The trio of islands are covered in protected mangroves, ringed with protected seagrass and play host to an array of protected birds. There is little in the way of actual dry land, with much of the islands nearly inundated during high tide on Thursday. Constructing anything there would likely require tons of rockfill or construction on stilts, which county, state and federal regulators would likely find highly problematic approaches in the waters of Biscayne Bay.

An Osprey bird is seen around the Bird Key, a private island on Biscayne Bay that is now for sale as environmentalists are upset, because developers could build on the island, displacing all the birds, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Theres also some conflicting zoning. Under the county, its listed as residential. But its also zoned as T-1 under the city of Miamis plan, a designation that calls for the property to be left in an essentially natural state.

Any construction on here is going to be extremely complicated, and I hope the buyers recognize that, said Jonaitis. Its going to be complicated, not impossible.

The property also includes the largest holdout of submerged land not included in Biscayne Bays Aquatic Preserve, which was formed 50 years ago, Reynolds said. That means fewer permitting hoops to jump for a developer looking to build atop surrounding seagrass beds.

Thats why shes gravely concerned about the island falling into the hands of someone who would rather build on it than bird watch on it.

Trying to fight on property rights in the state of Florida in the court system we have now? Im not going to take that bet. Its not worth it, she said.

An Osprey bird flies around the Bird Key, a private island on Biscayne Bay that is now for sale as environmentalists are upset, because developers could build on the island, displacing all the birds, on Thursday, May 23, 2024.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  San Diego could soon be launching a countywide pilot program to help postpartum patients recover from giving birth with pelvic floor and core conditioning under a new state bill.

Assembly Bill 2756, introduced by Asm. Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas), would allow the county to create the three-year pilot program, which would offer group classes specifically designed to help postpartum patients recover.

Under the bill, the classes would be offered to those in the six-to-12-week postpartum window twice a week starting in 2026. They would focus on physical therapy exercises designed to prevent and treat pelvic floor dysfunction, a condition that occurs in one in three people after childbirth.

Stroke survivor, a local doctor, shares warning

According to the National Library of Medicine, the condition refers to a broad constellation of symptoms and changes to pelvic floor musculature functions. These symptoms span urologic, gynecologic and colorectal systems, causing things like pelvic pain, pain with sexual intercourse, vaginal prolapse, difficulty urinating or constipation among other things.

One study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that roughly 10% of the millions of people who give birth every year experience severe pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms, requiring some of them to receive surgery annually.

Many people are suffering in silence or are unaware of the physical changes to their bodies after childbirth, Boerner said in a statement. A weak pelvic floor can lead to many physical complications if left untreated.

Pelvic floor and core conditioning can help ease or reverse some of these symptoms. Across California, Scripps Health in San Diego is one of a handful of healthcare systems already offering this to pregnant patients as part of their care after giving birth, Boerners office said.

Which states might have abortion on the ballot this year?

We have programs to support parents before they give birth, and we should have programs to support them postpartum, she continued. Pelvic floor physical therapy should be the standard of care.

The bill passed through the Assembly on Friday with a 73 to 7 vote and is now headed to the State Senate for further consideration.

Should it be signed into law, county leaders will be able to determine which providers would be authorized to participate in the pilot program, which would run from Jan. 1, 2026 to Jan. 1, 2029.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Sanchez to take over county attorney, EPCC looking to fill District 4 trustee vacancy

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  El Paso Community College (EPCC) District 4 Trustee Christina Sanchez resignation was accepted by the Board of Trustees during a meeting held Wednesday, May 22. Her position is now expected to be filled.

Bernal to retire early, allowing Sanchez to take over as county attorney

During the meeting, Sanchez said that she was leaving due to taking on her new role as the elected county attorney, according to a press release sent by EPCC.

As we previously reported, longtime El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal announced her early retirement and that will allow Sanchez, who won the Democratic Primary and is running unopposed in November, to take over the office on June 7.

Sanchez expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve EPCC and said she looks forward serving the college and the public in different ways in her new role.

EPCC said she also encouraged interested individuals within District 4 to consider serving on the Board of Trustees.

I really hope that individuals who have a good heart in representing the community and of course the community college, consider applying, Sanchez said.

Sanchez had represented District 4 which covers parts of Central, West, South El Paso and the Lower Valley, according to EPCC.

Ms. Sanchez has been a thoughtful and dedicated leader who has always prioritized the best interest of the students, our college and the community, Board Chair Brian Haggerty said.

EPCC said that to fill the remainder of the District 4 term, which concludes in May of 2025 when the next election is set to take place, the Board of Trustees announced they will be accepting applications from eligible residents.

District 4 map and applications are available at http://go.epcc.edu/boardvacancy and are due no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, June 7.

Notarized applications must be received by the deadline via email to mcast291@epcc.edu or hand-delivered to the Presidents Office.

A committee of the Board of Trustees will review applications submitted and interview potential candidates the week of June 10, according to EPCC.

Application information can be found online at http://go.epcc.edu/boardvacancy or can be picked up at the Presidents Office, located at 9050 Viscount Blvd., Suite A131 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

EPCC said no late applications will be accepted.

Additionally, EPCC will be closed on Monday, May 27 in observance of the Memorial Day institutional holiday.

For questions regarding the application process, contact Belle Castruita at (915) 831-6511.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson offers an update on her health following breast and skin cancer diagnoses. ABOVE: Sarah Ferguson attends the 2024 amfAR Cannes Gala.

Sarah Ferguson offered a rather cheery update on her health following not one but two cancer diagnoses in a year's time.

The Duchess of York was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2023, and just seven months later, in January 2024, she revealed she was battling malignant melanoma.

Thankfully, the British royal appears to be in good spirits as she attended the amfAR Gala at the Cannes Film Festival on May 23, where she spoke to reporters about her experience and ongoing battle with skin cancer.

"This evening I am doing very well. I think that we've managed to get cancer in the right place rather than cancer ruling me. I've put cancer in the corner," she told People on Thursday.

The Duchess of Yorkwho shares two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, with her ex-husband Prince Andrewsuggested that honest conversations about one's experience with cancer could be just as meaningful as regular check-ups and screenings.

"I think you always have to be aware. I think it's great to get checked for breast cancer [and] melanoma. I think you just have to be very candid about it," she said. "I think a lot of people get very frightened to talk about these things."

"I'm very happy with my mastectomy and my breasts and just to talk about it," the duchess added.

The 64-year-old also touched upon her relationships with King Charles as well as Kate Middleton, both of whom were diagnosed with unspecified types of cancer within weeks of each other earlier this year.

"I think family unity is key I think the key to life is that we all support each other," she shared with the outlet. "And also forgiveness is a great thing. I think forgiveness of yourself, and forgiveness of others."

Next: Princess Beatrice Praises 'Resilient' Mom Sarah Ferguson in Health Update
Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (L), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Friday that his government has no plans to officially recognize a Palestinian state.

There is "no reason" to recognize the Palestinian Authority (PA) as a separate state, Scholz said on Friday at a press conference alongside Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.

"There is no clarity about the territory of the state, about all other issues related to it," Scholz said. He suggested that matters were "not yet that far."

Scholz argued that "a negotiated solution between Israel and the Palestinians that amounts to a two-state solution" with a Palestinian Authority responsible for both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip is needed instead.

"But we're still a long way off that," Scholz said.

What is important now is "to achieve a long-term ceasefire" and "for all parties to commit to the two-state solution," Scholz said.

Ireland, Spain and Norway all announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state by the end of the month, a move that was met with fury from the right-wing government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Montenegro said that Portugal will not be taking this step for the time being, although he noted that his country had voted in favour of recognizing Palestine as a full member of the United Nations General Assembly.

Scholz on Friday said that it has become clear in recent weeks that Arab countries are working hard to ensure security in the Middle East region, which the German chancellor contended should give hope for a possible two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

However, a path of "symbolic recognition of statehood" would not lead things any further, Scholz said.

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (L), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (L), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa
SYDNEY, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported on Friday that about 100 people were feared dead after a huge landslide battered a remote village in Papua New Guinea.

According to ABC, the incident occurred at around 3:00 a.m. local time in Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, located over 600 km northwest of Port Moresby.

Residents told ABC that the death toll rose above 100, but the figure has yet to be confirmed by local authorities.

"It has occurred when people were still asleep in the early hours and the entire village has gone down," Elizabeth Laruma, president of the Porgera Women in Business Association, was quoted as saying.

"From what I can presume, it's about 100-plus people who are buried beneath the ground," Laruma added. 
Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (not pictured), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Friday that his government has no plans to officially recognize a Palestinian state.

There is "no reason" to recognize the Palestinian Authority (PA) as a separate state, Scholz said on Friday at a press conference alongside Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.

"There is no clarity about the territory of the state, about all other issues related to it," Scholz said. He suggested that matters were "not yet that far."

Scholz argued that "a negotiated solution between Israel and the Palestinians that amounts to a two-state solution" with a Palestinian Authority responsible for both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip is needed instead.

"But we're still a long way off that," Scholz said.

What is important now is "to achieve a long-term ceasefire" and "for all parties to commit to the two-state solution," Scholz said.

Ireland, Spain and Norway all announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state by the end of the month, a move that was met with fury from the right-wing government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Montenegro said that Portugal will not be taking this step for the time being, although he noted that his country had voted in favour of recognizing Palestine as a full member of the United Nations General Assembly.

Scholz on Friday said that it has become clear in recent weeks that Arab countries are working hard to ensure security in the Middle East region, which the German chancellor contended should give hope for a possible two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

However, a path of "symbolic recognition of statehood" would not lead things any further, Scholz said.

Scholz also criticized the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Karim Khan, for seeking arrest warrants on allegations of war crimes against Netanyahu and Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

Khan also requested arrest warrants against three top Hamas officials, accusing the leaders of the terrorist group of responsibility in a range of brutal atrocities.

But Scholz said that Khan's decision to request the arrest warrants at the same time, arguing that it implicitly equates Hamas and the Israeli government.

"I and the German government firmly reject the comparability," Scholz said.

He declined to directly address whether Germany would support enforcing the arrest warrants against Netanayahu and Gallant if granted, noting that a panel of judges in The Hague still must decide on the request by Khan.

"We have to wait and see. There is no need and no right to speculate," Scholz said.

Scholz said that the German government assumes the ICC's decision will take into account that "Israel is a democratic constitutional state with a strong and independent judiciary."

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (L), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (L), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) takes part in a joint press conference with Luis Montenegro (L), Prime Minister of Portugal, following talks at the Federal Chancellery. Christoph Soeder/dpa
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and EPP lead candidate, speaks at the European elections campaign event of the Christian Democratioc Union (CDU) at Steinhuder Meer in the Hanover region. Michael Matthey/dpa

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has indirectly warned European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen not to try to secure another term in office after the European elections with the help of right-wing extremists.

"It is clear to me that when the next [European] Commission is formed, it must not be based on a majority in parliament that also requires the support of right-wing extremists," Scholz said at a joint press conference with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro in Berlin on Thursday.

In this respect, he was "very saddened by the ambiguity of some of the political statements" recently heard, he said.

In April, von der Leyen did not rule out cooperating with the right-wing European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, to which the party of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the ultra-right Brothers of Italy, also belongs.

Von der Leyen, who is the lead candidate of the conservative European People's Party (EPP) group, defended her position in the EU Parliament on Thursday. "I worked very well with Giorgia Meloni in the European Council, as I do with all heads of state and prime ministers," the German Christian Democrat (CDU) politician said.

Scholz, a centre-left Social Democrat, said that his position was clear: "It will only be possible to establish a commission presidency that is based on the traditional parties ... Anything else would be a mistake for the future of Europe."

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (C) takes part in a citizens' dialog in the Dialogue Forum as part of the citizens' festival and celebrations to mark "75 years of the Basic Law". Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (C) takes part in a citizens' dialog in the Dialogue Forum as part of the citizens' festival and celebrations to mark "75 years of the Basic Law". Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and EPP lead candidate, speaks at the European elections campaign event of the Christian Democratioc Union (CDU) at Steinhuder Meer in the Hanover region. Michael Matthey/dpa

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has indirectly warned European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen not to try to secure another term in office after the European elections with the help of right-wing extremists.

"It is clear to me that when the next [European] Commission is formed, it must not be based on a majority in parliament that also requires the support of right-wing extremists," Scholz said at a joint press conference with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro in Berlin on Thursday.

In this respect, he was "very saddened by the ambiguity of some of the political statements" recently heard, he said.

In April, von der Leyen did not rule out cooperating with the right-wing European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, to which the party of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the ultra-right Brothers of Italy, also belongs.

Von der Leyen, who is the lead candidate of the conservative European People's Party (EPP) group, defended her position in the EU Parliament on Thursday. "I worked very well with Giorgia Meloni in the European Council, as I do with all heads of state and prime ministers," the German Christian Democrat (CDU) politician said.

Scholz, a centre-left Social Democrat, said that his position was clear: "It will only be possible to establish a commission presidency that is based on the traditional parties ... Anything else would be a mistake for the future of Europe."

For her part, von der Leyen slammed Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party while on the campaign trail in the northern German state of Lower Saxony.

The AfD is at war with fundamental values, is pushing propaganda for Russian President Vladimir Putin and carrying out espionage for China, she said on Friday at a European election campaign event for her CDU party in the town of Steinhude.

Von der Leyen accused the AfD of having "brought Putin's propaganda into [German] society."

"Then the handcuffs recently clicked on a close associate of the AfD's lead candidate. The public prosecutor's office is firmly convinced that the man is spying for China from within the European Parliament," she criticized.

Federal-level CDU Chairman Friedrich Merz emphasized that the phantom of right-wing populists must be ended. The AfD is not the alternative for Germany, but its moral and economic decline, he said.

The right-wing to far-right Identity and Democracy (ID) parliamentary group expelled all nine AfD members of the European Parliament (MEPs) on Thursday with immediate effect.

Previously, the AfD's lead candidate Maximilian Krah had caused sharp criticism with comments about the Nazi organization SS. An employee of Krah's was arrested around a month ago on suspicion of spying for China.

Party leader Tino Chrupalla sharply criticized the AfD's previous partners from Italy and France in the ID group.

He would not tolerate any interference from the parties of Meloni (Brothers of Italy) and Marine Le Pen (National Rally), he said on Friday evening at a regional party conference in Saxony.

As prime minister of Italy, Meloni is in favour of more migration and more weapons in the war in Ukraine, he said. "This Melonization will not happen with us." His party will not bend in order to become more respectable for others. "For us, German interests always come first."

Germans vote in the European elections on June 9.

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (C) takes part in a citizens' dialog in the Dialogue Forum as part of the citizens' festival and celebrations to mark "75 years of the Basic Law". Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz (C) takes part in a citizens' dialog in the Dialogue Forum as part of the citizens' festival and celebrations to mark "75 years of the Basic Law". Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa
Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.

Two teams of scientists have discovered a theoretically habitable planet, smaller than Earth but bigger than Venus, orbiting a small star about 40 light-years away.

The exoplanet, named Gliese 12b, orbits a cool red dwarf star situated in the constellation Pisces and is about 27% the size of our sun and 60% of its temperature, according to the two studies published on Thursday in The Astrophysical Journal Letters and Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Since its star is so much smaller than the sun, Gliese 12b still falls within the habitable zone  the ideal distance away from a star where liquid water can exist  even though it completes its orbit every 12.8 days.

Working on the assumption that the exoplanet doesnt have an atmosphere, scientists calculated its surface temperature to be around 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius).

Weve found the nearest, transiting, temperate, Earth-size world located to date, said Masayuki Kuzuhara, a project assistant professor at the Astrobiology Center in Tokyo and co-leader of one of the research teams with Akihiko Fukui, a project assistant professor at the University of Tokyo, in a statement.

Once temperate Earth-size planets have been identified, scientists can then analyze them to determine which elements are contained in their atmospheres and, crucially, whether water is present to sustain life.

Theres only a handful (of exoplanets) weve found that are good candidates for that. And this is our nearest and so thats quite a major discovery, Larissa Palethorpe, a doctoral student at the University of Edinburgh and University College London who co-led the other study, told CNN on Friday.

Understanding Gliese 12b

To spot Gliese 12b, scientists used the publicly available data collected by NASAs Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS)  a telescope that stares at tens of thousands of stars every month, tracking their changes in brightness, which can be evidence of orbiting exoplanets.

It is easier for astronomers to find exoplanets orbiting red dwarf stars since their relatively small size results in a greater dimming effect during each transit.

At the moment, scientists are unsure exactly what constitutes this planets atmosphere, whether it even has one and if water is present, though Palethorpe said they arent expecting to find water there.

There could be no water, and then we know a runaway greenhouse effect has already happened on this planet and its more like Venus, she said. There could be water, in which case its more like us or there are signatures that can be detectable that would be able to show you that the runaway greenhouse effect is in progress so it could be losing water.

For the next stage of analyzing the exoplanets atmosphere, scientists are hoping to use the James Webb Space Telescope and conduct spectroscopy analysis. This method involves capturing starlight that shines through an exoplanets atmosphere and seeing which wavelengths are absorbed by certain molecules, revealing their presence in the atmosphere.

As well as shedding light on the exoplanet itself, Palethorpe said scientists are hoping that this work can help us understand our own planet better.

What this planet will teach us in particular is what happened for Earth to stay habitable but for Venus to not It can tell us the habitability patheways that planets take as they develop, she said.

But though the exoplanet could potentially be habitable for humans and is relatively near our solar system in astronomical terms, it is unlikely that anyone will visit there soon.

Its not reachable, its 12 parsecs away, said Palethorpe, adding that it would take about 225,000 years to reach Gliese 12b with the fastest spacecraft that currently exist.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The search is ongoing for an alligator that escaped from a middle school in Kansas Citys Northland Thursday.

The 14-inch-long alligator escaped from Lakeview Middle School in the Park Hill School District during an end-of-school celebration. It was last seen in its cage around 11 that morning, according to previous reporting by The Star.

The gators mouth is taped shut, and it likely will soon die without access to food or water, rescuers said. Its believed to have evaded searchers by fleeing into woods near the school, rescuers told The Star.

The Animal Services Division of KC Pet Project, along with the Kansas City Fire Department, searched for the missing alligator last night to no avail, according to KC Pet Project staff.

We looked for hours, said KC Pet Project chief communications officer Tori Fugate. We had the fire department out last night helping us. There were probably 15 people literally like, climbing through bushes trying to find the alligator and theres no sign of them so far.

KC Pet Project plans to continue the search for the missing alligator Friday afternoon, but urges residents with any information about the reptile to call KC Pet Projects 24-hour phone line at 816-683-1373.

A petting zoo brought the reptile into the school without the proper permit, The Star originally reported. As of Friday morning, no citations have been issued against the petting zoo that brought the gator into the school, Fugate said. An investigation into why the zoo did not have the proper permit to bring the missing alligator into the school is still active.

The alligator does not pose a threat to the general public, Fugate said previously in an interview with The Star.

Lakeview Middle School officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday.

The Stars Ilana Arougheti contributed to this reporting.
MOUNT CARMEL, NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Police are looking for a man who was allegedly involved in assault incidents.

Mount Carmel Borough Police Department says they are looking for any information to locate Zachary Mcginley, 34, of Mount Carmel.

Woman wanted for alleged drug offense in Luzerne County

Police say Mcginley was involved in several incidents on May 23 and May 24 in Mount Carmel.

Mcginley made threats of self-arm during one of the incidents and also assaulted other persons with a glass shard cutting them, investigators stated.

Any information is asked to contact police at 570-339-6020.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
FILE - Palestinians inspect a vehicle with the logo of the World Central Kitchen wrecked by an Israeli airstrike in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, April 2, 2024. The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to vote Friday, May 24, 2024, on a resolution that strongly condemns attacks on humanitarian workers and U.N. personnel, and demands that all combatants protect them in accordance with international law. (AP Photo/Ismael Abu Dayyah, File)

UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The United Nations Security Council approved a resolution Friday that strongly condemns attacks on humanitarian workers and U.N. personnel and demands that all combatants protect them in accordance with international law.

The vote was 14-0 with Russia abstaining.

The Swiss-sponsored resolution expresses grave concern at the growing number of attacks and threats against U.N. and humanitarian personnel along with the continuing disregard and violations of international humanitarian law by combatants.

Switzerlands U.N. Ambassador Pascale Baeriswyl welcomed the strong support for the resolution, which had 97 co-sponsors, telling the council its objective was simple but important: to protect the men and women working as humanitarians and for the United Nations who risk their lives every day to help people affected by armed conflict.

Today, there are over 120 armed conflicts around the world, she told reporters after the vote. Millions of people are suffering and need humanitarian assistance. Yet, violence against humanitarian and U.N. personnel is on the rise. In 2023 alone, more than 250 humanitarian personnel were killed.

Over the past 10 years, Baeriswyl said, there has been a more than 50% increase in the number of the humanitarian personnel targeted.

The resolution does not single out any conflict, but it is being voted on as battles rage in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and many other hotspots around the world.

It is the seven-month war in Gaza, however, that has seen the greatest number of attacks on U.N. and humanitarian personnel. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called the death toll of U.N. staff in Gaza unprecedented in the world bodys nearly 80-year history.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric announced Friday that the number of killings of U.N. personnel has risen to 194, the vast majority from the U.N. agency helping Palestinian refugees known as UNRWA. He said it had been a tragic year, and welcomed the resolution, saying that member states should do all they can to implement it.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, said Arab nations are grateful to Switzerland and told reporters the resolution is tailored to Gaza, without necessarily mentioning Gaza by name. Thats because it calls for protection of humanitarian and U.N. staff trying to help civilians, he said.

The war has also seen the killing of other humanitarian personnel, including seven World Central Kitchen workers who died in an Israeli airstrike last month.

Baeriswyl said the resolution came at a timely moment. The Geneva Conventions, which Baeriswyl described as the cornerstone of international humanitarian law and a reflection of our common humanity, commemorates its 75th anniversary in August.

Russias deputy U.N. ambassador Anna Evstigneeva paid tribute to the courage and the selflessness of humanitarian workers but blamed Western pressure for Moscows abstention.

She said some unnamed Western nations pressured Switzerland to leave out language and changes Russia wanted in the resolution, including on holding people who violate international law accountable, on humanitarian access and on the hackneyed gender language.

The resolution calls on all countries to respect and protect humanitarian and U.N. personnel as required by international law. And it calls on all nations and parties to armed conflict to respect international humanitarian law and their obligations under the Geneva Conventions.

The International Committee of the Red Cross welcomed adoption of the resolution saying it is a clear reminder of the absolute necessity and obligation for all parties of armed conflicts to respect and protect humanitarian personnel, their premises and their assets.

ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric said Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and ICRC staff are often the first to respond to conflicts trying to keep people in desperate need alive, and too often paying the highest price in the process.

The resolution strongly condemns attacks and all forms of violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, threats and intimidation against humanitarian personnel and United Nations and associated personnel.

The resolution urges combatants to respect the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution in the conduct of hostilities and refrain from attacking, destroying, removing or rendering useless objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population.

It also urges warring parties to facilitate full, safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to all civilians in need, and to promote the safety, security and freedom of movement of humanitarian personnel and United Nations and associated personnel.

On another issue, the resolution condemns disinformation, information manipulation and incitement to violence against humanitarian and U.N. staff and it encourages all countries and the United Nations to take action to address these threats.

The resolution expresses the councils determination to take steps to provide for the safety and security of humanitarian and U.N. staff. It would ask the U.N. Secretary-General to make recommendations within six months on measures to prevent attacks, ensure accountability and enhance protection of humanitarian and U.N. staff.
See inside the Demilitarized Zone, the heavily guarded border between North Korea and South Korea

See inside the Demilitarized Zone, the heavily guarded border between North Korea and South Korea

The Demilitarized Zone established after the Korean War separates North Korea and South Korea.

North Korean and South Korean soldiers, as well as United Nations Command forces, guard the site.

Despite being one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world, it's also a tourist attraction.

In 1953, an armistice agreement established a Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the border of North Korea and South Korea. While the agreement brought an end to the battles of the Korean War, the conflict is still ongoing.

Tensions remain high between the two countries. On multiple occasions earlier this year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un tested new rockets capable of hitting Seoul in South Korea. In December, Kim said his army should "thoroughly annihilate" South Korea and the United States, if provoked, the Associated Press reported.

Take a look inside the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea.

The Korean Armistice Agreement of 1953 divided North and South Korea along the 38th parallel and established a Demilitarized Zone at the border.

Kim Il Sung signs the Korean Armistice Agreement. Sovfoto/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

At 148 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, the strip of land includes territory from both North and South Korea and acts as a buffer between the two countries.

The Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone is managed by North Korea and the United Nations Command.

South Korean soldiers stand guard in the Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone. ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP via Getty Images

The United Nations Command was established when the Korean War began in 1950 as a multinational force made up of 22 countries supporting South Korea, according to its official website. The UN Command continues to enforce the armistice agreement and aid efforts to maintain peace in the region.

Despite being one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world, it is also a popular tourist attraction.

A tour bus is seen at the Imjingak Pavilion near the Demilitarized Zone. Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

Located about 30 miles north of Seoul, the DMZ is open to visitors who book organized tours. In 2019, CNN reported that 1.2 million people visit the site each year, citing figures from the Korea Tourism Organization.

In the Joint Security Area, also known as Panmunjom or Truce Village, a monument memorializes the casualties that led up to the 1953 armistice agreement.

A monument at a South Korean checkpoint in the Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone. Kim Jae-Hwan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

"On July 27, 1953, in the small building approximately 1000 meters to the front of this marker, representatives of the United Nationals Command, the Korean People's Army, and the Chinese Peoples Volunteers signed a Military Armistice agreement that brought the Korean War to a halt," the plaque reads.

The plaque adds that the Republic of Korea lost 150,000 soldiers and the United Nations Command suffered 40,000 casualties.

The room where the agreement was signed is also open to view.

A soldier stands in the Joint Security Area in one of the blue barracks behind the table where the armistice agreement was signed. Soeren Stache/picture alliance via Getty Images

One of the tables displays flags from the United States, South Korea, and the United Nations.

North Korean soldiers watch closely from outside.

A North Korean soldier looks inside as he stands guard in the DMZ. KIM HONG-JI/AFP via Getty Images

By walking around the conference table inside the building, tourists can say they have, technically, been in both North and South Korea.

Soldiers on South Korea's side of the DMZ stare into North Korea.

US soldiers stand in the Joint Security Area of the DMZ. Soeren Stache/picture alliance via Getty Images

Tourists visiting the site are instructed not to wave or point at North Korean soldiers and to only take photographs when instructed.

North Korea stares right back.

A North Korean looks at the South Korean side of Panmunjom inside the DMZ. Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

North Korea offers its own tours of the DMZ. Travis Jeppesen, the first American to complete a university program in North Korea, wrote in his 2018 book, "See You Again in Pyongyang: A Journey into Kim Jong Un's North Korea," that the tour is surprisingly less tense on the North Korean side with no strict rules about how to interact with soldiers on the other side.

The Military Demarcation Line is indicated by a block of concrete.

The Military Demarcation Line in the Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea. Kim Jae-Hwan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

In the above photo, North Korea is on the left and South Korea is on the right.

Nearby, at the Goseong Unification Observatory Tower, visitors can use binoculars to look into North Korea.

A pair of binoculars near the DMZ. Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

The Goseong Unification Observatory Tower is the northernmost observation point in South Korea.

North Korea has built what South Korean forces call a "propaganda village" near the border.

North Korea's propaganda village of Gijungdong is seen from a South Korean observation post inside the Demilitarized Zone. Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

Known as "Peace Village" on the North Korean side, the buildings appear to be empty. The village was built in an attempt to encourage defectors from the South to join the North.

North Korea also flies its flag on a 525-foot flagpole across from the Demilitarized Zone  a symbol of the still-simmering tensions between the two countries.

A North Korean flag in North Korea's propaganda village of Gijungdong. Jeon Heon-Kyun - Pool/Getty Images

When South Korea constructed a flagpole that was 321.5 feet high in the 1980s, North Korea built a taller one at 525 feet, the BBC reported.

Read the original article on Business Insider
KABUL, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Measles cases in Afghanistan increased by 37 percent year on year in the first four months of this year, the country's Ministry of Public Health said.

"In the first four months of the current year, over 3,000 positive cases of measles were registered in Afghanistan," local media outlet TOLOnews quoted the ministry's spokesperson Sharafat Zaman Amarkhilas saying on Friday.

Measles is an extremely infectious disease caused by a virus. It spreads easily when infected people breathe, cough or sneeze. It can cause severe symptoms, complications, and even death. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles.

Measles is endemic in Afghanistan, with nearly all provinces reporting suspected cases annually. Since the beginning of 2024, a total of 18,744 suspected cases and 94 associated deaths were recorded in the country, according to the World Health Organization's report in April. 
Senate Democrats Ask John Roberts To Meet 'As Soon As Possible' Over Samuel Alito Mess

WASHINGTON  Top Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee on Friday told Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts they want to meet with him as soon as possible to ensure that Justice Samuel Alito recuses himself from cases relating to the 2020 election after two recent newsreports revealed Alito flew flags at two separate residences that insurrectionists at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, had also carried.

By displaying the upside-down and Appeal to Heaven flags outside his homes, Justice Alito actively engaged in political activity, failed to avoid the appearance of impropriety, and failed to act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the impartiality of the judiciary, Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) wrote to Roberts in a new letter.

He also created reasonable doubt about his impartiality and his ability to fairly discharge his duties in cases related to the 2020 presidential election and January 6th attack on the Capitol, they wrote. His recusal in these matters is both necessary and required.

(Durbin and Whitehouse are the committee chair and the chair of the subcommittee that deals with federal courts, respectively.)

The senators also renewed their call on the Supreme Court to adopt an enforceable code of conduct for Supreme Court justices.

The court currently has a code of ethics, which it adopted last year and only after intense public scrutiny, but it has no teeth. Still, under that code, which the justices themselves put together, they are required to avoid the appearance of impropriety.

Heres a copy of the senators new letter:

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Durbin and other Democrats have been demanding the Supreme Court adopt an enforceablecode of ethics for years. But they drastically stepped up their calls for action after last years bombshellreports by ProPublica that Alito and fellow conservative Justice Clarence Thomas had accepted lavish and undisclosed gifts from wealthy political donors for years.

Democrats have also urged passage of a bill, the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal and Transparency Act, which would require justices to adopt a binding code of conduct and improve transparency when a justice has ties to a party or amicus before the court.

But in a polarized and narrowly divided Senate, that bill is going nowhere. And while Durbin has the authority to subpoena Alito or other Supreme Court justices to appear before the Senate Judiciary Committee to address ethics questions, he has not done that.

If Durbin were to try to subpoena Alito, he wouldnt be able to do it unilaterally. Hed need the top Republican on the committee to sign off, which would not happen in this case, or a majority vote in the committee. Its not clear if all 10 Democrats on the committee would vote to do this.

A Judiciary Committee spokesperson would not say if Durbin is prepared to try to subpoena Alito if he doesnt recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election or the insurrection. Instead, the spokesperson suggested hes focused on taking legislative action.

The Senate Judiciary Committee has been investigating the ethical crisis at the Court for more than a year, and that investigation continues, said the committee spokesperson. And Chair Durbin remains focused on ensuring the Supreme Court adopts an enforceable code of conduct, which Congress can do by passing the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency Act.

Related...
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I, Senate Committee on the Budget chairman, announced an investigation Thursday into an alleged quid-pro-quo meeting between former President Donald Trump and oil executives. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

May 24 (UPI) -- Senate Democrats have launched an inquiry into allegations that former President Donald Trump promised oil executives to roll back fossil fuel regulations if re-elected on the condition that they donate $1 billion to his 2024 campaign.

The inquiry was launchd Thursday when letters were sent by Senate Committee on the Budget Chairman Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., and Senate Committee on Finance Chairman Ron Wyden, D-ore., to the heads of nine oil and gas companies and their trade associations seeking information and documents related to the widely reported meeting.

"Time and time again, both Mr. Trump and the U.S. oil and gas industry have proved they are willing to sell out Americans to pad their own pockets," Whitehouse and Wyden wrote to the executives in the letters.

The fundraiser took place April 11 at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., according to The New York Times and Politico, with The Washington Post being the first to report on the meeting earlier this month.

Some 20 people, including executives from ExxonMobil and oil lobbyist the American Petroleum Institute, were present for what was called an"energy roundtable" hosted by oil and gas business magnate Harold Hamm, The Times report.

Over dinner, Trump is reported to have promised the industry executives to roll back President Joe Biden's pollution control and green energy agenda if re-elected to the White House while asking that they collectively donate the massive amount of money to his campaign.

The committees in their letters to the executives asked for it to hand over names of any of its officials or employees who were at the meeting, materials and communications related to it, descriptions of policy proposals discussed and descriptions of discussions of campaign contributions.

They are also seeking any recordings of the event and copies of any draft executive orders, as it has been reported that the oil and gas industry has drafted executive orders to roll back environmental policies to be signed by Trump if elected.

"As Mr. Trump funnels campaign money into his businesses and uses it as a slush fund to pay his legal fees, Big Oil has been lobbying aggressively to protect and expand its profits at the expense of the American taxpayer," Whitehouse and Wyden wrote to the executives in the letters.

"And now, emboldened by impunity, Mr. Trump and Big Oil are flaunting their indifference to U.S. citizens' economic well-being for all to see, conferring on how to trade campaign cash for policy changes. Such potential abuses must be scrutinized."

It is the second congressional investigation into Trump's meeting. On May 14, Rep. Jamie Raskin, ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, similarly sent letters to the nine oil and gas companies.

The letters on Thursday were sent to the American Petroleum Institute, Cheniere Energy, Chesapeake Energy, Chevron, Continental Resources, EQT Corporation, ExxonMobil, Occidental Petroleum and Venture Global LNG.
Democratic lawmakers in the Senate have announced plans to investigate Donald Trumps solicitation of a $1 billion dollar donation, coming as the former president allegedly promised donors massive savings from deregulation and tax breaks if he returned to office.

The inquiry into a meeting between Trump and the executives of numerous oil and gas firms will hinge on whether he attempted to tie the donations to favors. Reports suggest that the oil and gas industry has already prepared for a second Trump term, drafting a slew of new executive orders for him to sign on day one.

Per the New York Times, Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., and Ron Wyden, D-Ore., wrote to top executives of eight oil companies, asking for details of the April meeting and inquiring whether a quid pro quo took place. They accused the group of recipients of conferring [with Trump] on how to trade campaign cash for policy changes.

The move, which underscores the deep financial troubles of the Trump campaign and its reliance on deep-pocketed billionaires, comes in line with the Trump campaigns suggestions that it would end Biden-era green energy policies and restart significant oil drilling efforts.

This solicitation, coupled with troubling reports that fossil fuel interests and other companies have been drafting language for use in executive orders favorable to their businesses during a possible second Trump Administration, demand immediate additional inquiry, Whitehouse and Wyden wrote, per Politico.

Though the solicitation itself may or may not be illegal, depending on the demands made at the meeting, it poses serious ethical concerns, critics say.
Activists gained entry to the course in April 2023 - David Rose/The Telegraph

Seven protesters have been fined after trying to block a road near Aintree racecourse on the day of last years Grand National.

Activists from Animal Rising tried to block roads around Aintree on April 15 2023 while others gained entry to the course, causing the steeplechase to be delayed by almost 15 minutes.

Lucia Alexander, Tobias Brown, Zoe Able, Andrew Houghton, Sarah Love, Jamie Carter and Eleanor Kenny were found guilty of wilful obstruction of a highway following a trial at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Friday.

Earlier this month, fellow protesters Rosa Sharkey and James Kelly were fined 690 and 550 in a separate hearing after they too were convicted of wilful obstruction of a highway.

Det Ch Insp Ben Dyer, of Merseyside Police, said: As with the previous hearing, the seven defendants relied heavily on their right to freedom of expression under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights during their court hearing. However, they have now all been found guilty.

Merseyside Police respects the right to a peaceful protest and expression of views but where this crosses into criminal behaviour and disorder it will not be tolerated.

Such actions put those protesting and other road users at huge risk, and as always has the potential to disrupt emergency services responding to serious incidents.

I hope these outcomes send a strong message and act as a future deterrent to others.

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The San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office identified the person who threatened Los Osos Middle School on Wednesday afternoon.

Detectives tracked the phone and found that a 13-year-old in Peoria, Arizona, threatened the school, according to a Sheriffs Office news release sent on Thursday.

The Sheriffs Office did not release the teenagers name.

The teenager had made similar calls to schools in other locations throughout the country, the release said.

Sheriffs Office spokesperson Tony Cipolla said the school received a generalized threat on Wednesday and called in deputies to respond. Because it was the end of the school day, students were being released to their parents while law enforcement was on campus, he added.

San Luis Coastal Unified School District Superintendent Eric Prater told The Tribune the lockdown was prompted when a staff member received an anonymous threat on their personal cell phone at about 2:50 p.m.

The school then notified the Sheriffs Office out of an abundance of caution, he said.

All students are safe and this appears to be a non-credible threat, Prater said on Wednesday. We deeply appreciate the rapid and robust response by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Department.

Arizona law enforcement is investigating the incident.
Shipwreck Island Waterpark offering free entry to students with 3 or more A's May 28-30

Shipwreck Island is offering free entry May 28-30 to Bay County students who received three or more A's on their most recent report card.

PANAMA CITY BEACH  Shipwreck Island Waterpark will honor academic achievers with "Great Grades Days."

Students with three or more A's on their most recent report card are eligible for free entry May 28-30.

According to a news release by Shipwreck Island Waterpark, in addition to the complimentary entry, qualifying guests can take advantage of Friends and Family tickets, priced at $19.99 each, limited to six tickets per eligible guest.

This discount cannot be combined with any other discount or promotions, and it's only available for the day of purchase. Students must be enrolled in Bay District Schools.

Summer Reading: Bay County Libraries announce summer reading programs to avoid child reading slide

Shipwreck Island is proud to recognize the hard work and dedication of our high-achieving scholars, Jessi ODaniel, general manager for Shipwreck Island, said in the release. "Rewarding academic success is not only important for the individual students but also for fostering a culture that values learning and achievement.

Shipwreck Island Waterpark, at 12201 Hutchison Blvd. in Panama City Beach, will be open May 28-30 from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Shipwreck Island Waterpark gives free entry to high-achieving students
Whats the significance of mid-century modern architecture in Sacramento? We just found out

Uniquely is a Sacramento Bee series that covers the moments, landmarks and personalities that define what makes living in the Sacramento area so special.

An original 1955 Eichler mid-century modern home in Sacramentos South Land Park Hills neighborhood sold in November 2023 for $810,000  a little over a month after listing. The home had only two owners in 68 years.

In February, a Carmichael mid-century residence sold for $1.5 million one month after hitting the market. That deal was $260,000 over the asking price. The Carter Sparks-designed home had known only one previous owner in 62 years.

Both home sales illustrate how popular the California modern architectural style is in the Sacramento region.

Last week, the Sacramento City Council took note by designating a part of South Land Park Hills  covering 48 mid-century modern homes developer Joseph Eichler built in the mid-1950s  as a historic district.

The designation will help ensure the preservation and rehabilitation of the California modern architectural style in the four dozen homes off of South Land Park Drive.

This is a positive direction for Sacramento to help bring attention to and protect a niche product, Sacramento appraiser and housing analyst Ryan Lundquist said. Replicating an Eichler today would be very expensive, so its important to find ways to help preserve properties like this. Its good for neighborhoods and the region to have architectural variety.

The Eichler mid-century modern architectural style is known for its open living spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, seamless indoor-outdoor flow and minimal ornamentation.

Eichlers ranch homes helped fill the demand for quality, affordable housing as veterans returned to their families after World War II.

Nonprofit organization Sacramento Modern worked for years to get the historic district designation. Sac Mod was founded in 2010 to preserve modern art, architecture and design in the Sacramento region.

Its official  we are pleased to announce the South Land Park Hills (Eichler) Historic District! the group wrote on Instagram. We have worked on this long-term as a neighbor and organization. This project is the culmination of many volunteer hours and dedicated research efforts over many years.

Eichler completed a total of 59 mid-century modern homes in South Land Park Hills, according to the city. Some are outside the district.

The designation will help the Eichler Homes neighborhood maintain its character-defining features  its feel, cohesiveness, and sense of place  and prevent drastic exterior alterations, Gretchen Steinberg, president of Sacramento Modern, said in an email.

An Eichler home in South Land Park in 2004.

Unfortunately, some of the original 59 Eichler homes have been altered beyond recognition. The designation helps prevent further loss. A group of homeowners participated in developing general guidelines identifying what the main character-defining exterior features areand made specific recommendations.

Gaby Moreira, a Realtor with Mid Mod Sacramento who specializes in mid-century modern homes, said the designation is a celebration of Sacramentos character.

Its great to see South Land Park Hills get recognized as a historic district, she said in an email. Joseph Eichlers mid-century homes are architectural gems, known for their open floor plans and stylish design. This move not only preserves these cool homes but also honors Eichlers push for inclusive, affordable housing. Its a win for history buffs, architecture fans, and anyone who loves seeing our citys unique character celebrated.

A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons were the architects for Eichler.
(Bloomberg) -- Taiwan has become one of the most dangerous flashpoints in the region as the US-China rivalry intensifies, Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said on Friday.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Taiwan is one of the most sensitive issues in US-China relations, Gan said at the Nikkei Forum in Tokyo. Any clash in the Taiwan Strait will have dire consequences not just for the parties involved, but the entire world.

Gans remarks come as China started its most expansive military drills in a year around Taiwan, ramping up pressure on Lai Ching-te just days after he took over as the islands new president. Tensions in the Taiwan Strait have raised concern about implications for the global economy  which counts on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. to produce the worlds most essential chips.

The US-China relationship is the most consequential in the world but is unfortunately marked by deep suspicion and distrust, Gan said. When each side views the other as an adversary, the risk of accidents and miscalculations increases.

Gan, whos also Singapores top trade official, called on US and China to build trust and cooperate on Taiwan and other issues. He said the regional economy will prosper if theres peace and stability.

Chinas growing heft and desire for a more prominent global role mean that its actions and words are often seen and interpreted differently, said Gan who took office as Singapores deputy premier on May 15. How China wields its clout in response, will greatly influence the reactions of countries in the region.

Singapore, like most of Asia, counts China as its largest trading partner. The US is the city-states biggest foreign investor and a critical military partner. The trade-dependent nation has repeatedly stressed that it will not choose sides.

China is a geostrategic reality, Gan said. An isolated or excluded China is not good for anyone.

--With assistance from Yi Wei Wong.

(Adds comments from deputy PM from fifth paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday sent a message to Luis Abinader, congratulating him on re-election as president of the Dominican Republic.

Xi pointed out that the current relations between China and the Dominican Republic maintain positive development momentum.

Mutual political trust has been continuously deepening, practical cooperation has seen fruitful results and the two sides have maintained close coordination in international and regional affairs, he added.

Xi also said he highly regards the relations between the two countries, and appreciates Abinader's firm adherence to the one-China policy, adding that he stands ready to work with President Abinader in continuing to guide bilateral ties to reach new heights and to let the achievements of cooperation better benefit people of the two countries. 
DENVER (KDVR)  When you see the SWAT team around the city, its not always because of bomb threats and murderers as you see in crime shows.

The Denver Metro SWAT Team responds to a variety of calls that could potentially pose a greater risk to the public, according to the Denver Police Department. These situations can include anything from exactly what you see on television, like searching a home for a fentanyl pill-making operation, to day-to-day calls, like helping an officer arrest a suspect.

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SWAT is called to the scene to help bring suspects into custody while keeping the community, suspect and officers safe. While SWAT can be called for the worst of the worst, the team is also used for resource management.

These situations can also require a large amount of resources and time. Utilizing a SWAT team response allows for patrol officers to be able to continue to respond to other calls for service while the incident is ongoing, Denver police said.

So, when you see a SWAT team around the city, it doesnt necessarily mean its an escalated situation.

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If there are any safety issues for the public during a SWAT team operation, notifications are usually made to the public in the area. We also post information on X, Denver police told FOX31.

If you see SWAT around Denver, the Denver Police Department usually posts updates about the SWAT presence on X. The public can also sign up for Denver 911s Smart911 program to get alerts of anything going on in their neighborhood.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Pallbearers carry the casket of L.A. County sheriff's Deputy Alfredo "Freddy" Flores into St. Didacus Catholic Church for his May 9 funeral Mass in Sylmar. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

State regulators have accused the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department of skipping inspections, neglecting maintenance and committing an array of willful safety violations that led to a 2023 mobile shooting range fire that killed one deputy, according to records obtained by The Times.

Last month, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health hit the department with just over $300,000 in fines for a series of safety violations in a mobile range trailer parked outside the Castaic jail complex. Inspectors said the buildup of combustible dust  such as accumulated gunpowder  caused the deadly blaze.

The employer failed to conduct daily, weekly, monthly, and bi-annual preventive maintenance on the indoor mobile shooting trailer, the agency wrote in a 19-page citation issued in April. As a result on or about October 10, 2023, two employees suffered serious physical harm to their body when the indoor trailer exploded and caught on fire.

Both of the burned deputies were hospitalized, and last month one of them  Alfredo Freddy Flores, 51  died. He was buried May 9 during a funeral in Sylmar.

We now know that Freddy lost his life because mobile trailers like the one he was in had a known history of catching fire due to poor design and poor maintenance, said attorney John Carpenter, who is representing the Flores family.

The Assn. of Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs blamed county leaders on the Board of Supervisors for failing to properly fund and equip the Sheriffs Department, which has a $4-billion budget.

The fire that caused Freddy's tragic death was foreseeable and avoidable, union President Richard Pippin wrote in an email.

The Sheriffs Department, meanwhile, said the blaze is still under investigation and declined to answer several specific questions about the incident, including whether the problems identified by the state have been fixed.

Read more: Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy dies six months after fire at shooting range

We are working with County Counsel to evaluate the violations, the department wrote in an email, but the safety of our personnel is paramount and our primary concern.

The agency did not say whether it appealed the citations, though state OSHA officials confirmed that it had. They said the fines have not been paid as the appeal is pending.

::

Since the late 1980s, the Sheriffs Department has relied on mobile shooting ranges to ensure its roughly 10,000 deputies can test their firearms skills four times a year. The department can move the range from station to station each week instead of paying deputies overtime to spend a day driving to a fixed location.

The 50- to 53-foot mobile structures feature several shooting lanes overseen by a range master. The interior walls are covered with soundproofing foam, and a thick rubber or metal plate known as a bullet trap sits behind the target. As with other indoor ranges, shooting trailers require regular cleaning to prevent a dangerous buildup of lead and gunpowder.

When you shoot a gun, theres gunpowder and explosives inside the cartridge, one former range deputy told The Times in October. Not all of that gunpowder burns  sometimes it ends up on the floor in front of you, sometimes it ends up on your hands.

Multiple range experts told The Times last year that although mobile range fires appear to be rare, the buildup of unburned gunpowder at any range that isnt adequately cleaned and ventilated can lead to fires. Now, state regulators say, it has.

Read more: 'A full-on inferno': The history of range trailer fires at the L.A. Sheriff's Department

One of the violations described in the Cal/OSHA records  provided to The Times by the Flores family attorney  faulted the department for persistently failing to keep records of inspections dating to at least 2021, when the state hit the department with another citation for the same problem. Its not clear how much the 2021 violation cost the county in fees, but the recent record-keeping failures netted a $1,000 fine.

In its April notice, the state fined the department $25,000 for failing to implement procedures for identifying workplace hazards including the hazard of allowing the accumulation of propellant throughout the surfaces of indoor mobile shooting ranges and for failing to do regular inspections.

The employer did not engage in scheduled periodic inspections to identify unsafe work conditions in indoor mobile shooting ranges, the citation notice said. Employer did not identify hazards related to indoor mobile shooting ranges after employer discovered a new hazard when mobile shooting ranges caught fire.

The department racked up another $25,000 fine for failing to fix safety concerns in a timely manner. Specifically, the state accused the agency of knowing about the danger of accumulated propellant inside range trailers and failing to take sufficient steps to prevent the re-occurrence of fires in its indoor mobile shooting ranges.

One of the costliest violations, which the state deemed willful and serious, faulted the department for allegedly failing to conduct the regular inspections and preventive maintenance recommended by the trailer manufacturer.

That violation netted a $125,000 fine, as did another willful and serious violation for failing to clean the range trailer often enough and allowing the accumulations of combustible dust on floors, ledges, beams, equipment, machines, or elsewhere which caused an explosion and fire.

Last year, department officials told The Times that the range trailer had been serviced and cleaned by an outside contractor in July and that the departments Facilities Services Bureau did its normal trailer maintenance in September. Its not clear how those statements square with the recent citations or whether that could factor into the pending appeal, and the department did not clarify.

In addition to the violations discovered last fall, the states April notice also included two pages of memos warning the department that a trailer outside Mens Central Jail had combustible acoustic foam inside and lacked adequate ventilation and dust collection mechanisms. Officials said the trailer is not in use.

::

As The Times reported last year, the blaze that killed Flores was at least the fourth range trailer fire in the past decade. Though officials have released little information about some of the incidents, department records show at least one involved similar concerns about the buildup of gunpowder.

In 2019, deputies designing active shooter training in Marina del Rey accidentally started a fire while testing a flashbang trainer, a nonexplosive version of a flashbang, or stun grenade.

Steven Propster, one of the deputies involved in that incident, told The Times in an interview last year that he wanted to test out the loud device in a controlled setting, and the soundproofed range trailer seemed ideal.

The first time, Propster said, the device went off without a hitch. The second time, a small flame popped up. One of the other deputies stomped it out with his foot. When two more flames popped up nearby, Propster shouted for another deputy to bring a fire extinguisher.

He doused it  but two seconds later, flames went running up the wall, Propster said. We ran toward the door, and the flame began to swirl and burn everything and chase us out. It was like a movie.

According to internal affairs records Propster recently shared with The Times, the departments Arson and Explosives Detail determined the fire was accidental. Its report noted that the flashbang trainers were advertised as devices that would not become so hot they start fires and that the blaze started when sparks landed on combustible foam insulation hanging inside the trailer.

This fire was likely accelerated by the presence of unburned gunpowder that is inevitably present in this environment, the arson report said, and it could not be presumed that the act of throwing the flashbang trainer in the mobile range would present a substantial and unjustifiable risk of causing a fire.

In the end, internal affairs records show, Propster was disciplined with a five-day suspension for unauthorized use of the flashbang trainer and for causing a fire that destroyed a $150,000 trailer and resulted in media coverage and community outcry with concerns regarding possible damage to the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve.

Propster told The Times he came away from the incident worried about the departments continued use of range trailers.

If you have one fire, its a one-off, he said last year. Two, OK, whats causing this?

::

More than six months after the 2023 blaze, the department has still released few details about what happened. The blaze started around 9:30 a.m. Oct. 10 in the trailer, which was parked next to the mens jail at Pitchess Detention Center.

Two deputies were inside the 53-foot trailer when the fire broke out, sheriffs officials said. Flores was taking a department-mandated recertification test, and the other deputy was supervising. Both were rushed to the hospital with third-degree burns. Flores, a 22-year veteran of the department, remained hospitalized until his death.

Read more: L.A. County deputies suffer third-degree burns in fire inside mobile shooting range

Freddy Flores struggled to live for six months, said Carpenter, the family attorney. "We still dont know all the details of what happened. We just know that it should not have happened.

The department has not offered updates on the other deputy or released details about how the fire started. But immediately after the blaze, the department called in the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for help investigating and shut down all of its mobile shooting ranges.

The ATF recently confirmed that it provided assistance to the Sheriff's Department, but said it could not give any details because the investigation is continuing.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  The historic and iconic Tarrytown Lighthouse, also known as The Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, has reopened after being closed for almost a year for renovations, the Office of Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced on Thursday.

The lighthouse makeover was completed as the town celebrates the 150th anniversary of Sleepy Hollow.

How this NYC couple keeps the spark alive after 80 years of marriage

The Tarrytown Lighthouse is one of the most well-known landmarks in Westchester County, and it is the only lighthouse in the County, Latimer said. This capital project is another example of an existing destination that the County is restoring and refurbishing so that it can be enjoyed again by current and future residents.

The lighthouse has been watching over Sleepy Hollow since 1883. It is the only lighthouse in the Hudson River with family living quarters. During its opening, it was home to 12 keepers and their families, as reported by The New York Travel Guide.

The $3.4 million restoration of the lighthouse included exterior repairs, repainting, window and door replacement, refurbishing of the interior plaster and paint finishes, a new security gate on the mainland, and new electric exterior lighting.

The Tarrytown Lighthouse was built in response to pleas by local ship companies for assistance in navigating dangerous reefs. The lighthouse was taken out of service in 1961.

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.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Grassy hillsides near Morro Bay that were once home to an oil pipeline and shipping terminal will be transformed into a huge new San Luis Obispo County park, complete with public trails, a campground and a dog beach.

This is just a spectacular ocean property, Land Conservancy of SLO County Deputy Director Daniel Bohlman said of the land that will become the Toro Coast Preserve.

The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County is leading the effort to purchase almost 2,000 acres from Chevron in collaboration with the Cayucos Land Conservancy and the Morro Bay Open Space Alliance.

The organizations are buying the land in three phases, and they are currently fundraising for Phase 2: a 750-acre plot beside Alva Paul Creek.

The property will include a multi-modal trail system and eventually connect to a larger county park, Bohlman said, all of which is expected to be fully open sometime between 2030 and 2032, with some of the space possibly accessible sooner.

Its going to be really, really spectacular, Bohlman said.

The Toro Coast Preserve project will be completed in three phases. The red plot is Phase 1, the yellow plot is Phase 2 and the blue plot is Phase 3.

New SLO County park to be established in 3 phases

The Phase 1 acquisition of the Toro Coast Preserve project was completed in 2022, when the SLO County Parks Department took ownership of a 350-acre property between Cayucos and Toro Creek east of Highway 1.

The property includes the 20-acre, dog-friendly beach thats open to the public, while the county leases the rest of the land for grazing and residences.

Its really there to protect the scenic viewshed, Bohlman said of the portion of the property thats not open to the public.

Aimee Davis tosses a tennis ball for her dog Rocky at what is commonly known as Dog Beach between Morro Bay and Cayucos.

Meanwhile, three conservation organizations are currently working on Phase 2.

The Land Conservancy of SLO County plans to buy the 750-acre property for $5.5 million from Chevron this summer. The property runs east along Alva Paul Creek near Del Mar Park.

The organization already secured $5 million in state grants to fund the purchase, and its working with the Morro Bay Open Space Alliance and Cayucos Land Conservancy to raise the remaining $500,000, Bohlman said.

The groups must secure the funding by August when escrow closes, Bohlman said, but he hopes to finish fundraising by the end of July.

The Land Conservancy has a contract with the county and Chevron, in which the company agrees to donate the Phase 2 property to the County Parks Department during escrow. The contract allows the nonprofit to write grants and negotiate with Chevron on behalf of the county, Bohlman said.

Eventually, the 750 acres will become a county park with a multi-modal trail system for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding with room to park equestrian trailers nearby.

The trail system will offer a similar experience to the Pismo Preserve, Bohlman said.

This 283-acre strip of undeveloped beach between Morro Bay and Cayucos at the base of Toro Creek is set to be purchased from Chevron for the purpose of public land conservation.

Finally, for Phase 3, the nonprofit plans to purchase a 700-acre property from Chevron located between Phases 1 and 2, according to Bohlman.

That land will also become part of the county park with a campground, public trails and easy access to the dog beach.

Bohlman said he expects the county, Chevron and the Land Conservancy of SLO County to sign a sale agreement for the Phase 3 property during the next six months.

Nothing but good will binds Chevron to holding the Phase 3 property for the county, Bohlman said, but hes confident that the deal will go through.

Chevron has been very good partners with us, he said. They have really come around to the idea that conservation for the community is the best use of this property.

The project preserves a world-class open space, Bohlman said, protecting valuable ecosystems while providing an economic engine for the Central Coast.

Projects like this have a huge economic impact  positively  to those communities, Bohlman said. People are going to come, theyre going to camp, theyre going to hike, theyre going to bike, and then theyre going to go out to eat or stay in a hotel.

History of the Chevron property

Texaco originally used the 3,250-acre property as a marine terminal, where it stored oil before sending it to customers, according to Chevron spokesperson Jeff Moore.

The company extracted oil from inland production fields, then stored it in above-ground tanks near the center of the property, Moore said. An 18-inch pipe then moved the oil along Alva Paul Creek to waiting tankers at a marine terminal west of Del Mar Park, he said.

Texaco closed the marine terminal during the 1970s, then removed all five oil storage tanks in 1997 and 1998.

Chevron acquired the property when it took ownership of Texaco in 2001.

Total petroleum hydrocarbons and California regulated metals used to contaminate the eastern portion of the property where Phase 2 of the Toro Coast Preserve project will be located, Moore said. Chevron removed 14,500 cubic yards of contaminated soil from the site, and the the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Board said the company had adequately cleaned up the plot in 2010.

Chevron removed Texacos above-ground pipeline in 2023 and has also cleaned up all contamination on land contained in Phases 1 and 2 of the project.

Chevron still needs time to clean up contamination on land for Phase 3, but once that area is clean, Chevron can sell it to the Land Conservancy, according to Bohlman.

Chevron already sold pieces of the property to the Cayucos Sanitary District and private landowners  but the company is committed to this open space project, Moore said.

Chevron even donated $25,000 to the Land Conservancy of SLO County to support recreational uses planned for the property, Moore said.

Bohlman said the marine terminal may have actually preserved the open space. If the terminal hadnt been there, the property could have been developed.

It definitely conserved the unique character of Morro Bay and the character of Cayucos, he said.
LOS LUNAS, N.M. (KRQE)  PNM and community leaders celebrated the completion of a new solar farm in Valencia County Thursday.

The Sky Ranch Solar Energy Center has more than 412,300 panels and can produce up to 190 megawatts of power. That is enough electricity to power 51,000 homes a year. This project puts us one step closer to our goal at PNM, of being 100 percent carbon-free in the future. We are already more than halfway there, said Laura Sanchez, executive director of Government and Public Affairs at PNM.

Bonito Lake reopening for fishing after over a decade of post-fire cleanup

Over the next 20 years, the project is expected to generate millions in additional revenue for Valencia County and New Mexico, according to PNM.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Soldier Charged With Murder Of 8-Month-Old Daughter While Stationed At Fort Liberty

Sgt. Gabriel Ceville, an Army soldier stationed at North Carolinas Fort Liberty, had a preliminary hearing this week after he was accused in the killing of his 8-month-old daughter.

Ceville is charged with unpremeditated murder and involuntary manslaughter following the 2023 death of Misty Delatorre, a spokesperson for the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel told HuffPost.

The spokesperson noted that Ceville is also charged with domestic violence, but that this is not connected to Misty.

Despite the serious allegations, Ceville has not been detained or discharged, the Army spokesperson said, adding that the charges are merely allegations and Sgt. Ceville is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Alina Delatorre, Mistys mother, told ABCs WTVD that she cannot grieve properly while knowing that her daughters murderer is walking free.

It is unbelievable that so much violence was inflicted onto an innocent 8-month-old baby, she told the outlet.

Ceville denied harming the child while speaking to local news station WRAL.

A Fort Liberty sign is seen on June 2, 2023, in North Carolina. AP Photo/Karl B DeBlake

In February 2023, Ceville was residing at Fort Liberty, then known as Fort Bragg, with Misty in his care. Ceville allegedly said in text messages that his head hurt and Misty was screaming, and soon after said that Misty had thrown up and was unresponsive.

When Ceville called 911, he reported that the girl was not breathing, according to records cited by WTVD. The infant was airlifted to a hospital but was pronounced dead days later.

An autopsy report revealed that Misty had injuries around her eyes, and that authorities suspected foul play, according to WTVD. The autopsy determined that the infant died from blunt force trauma to her head and neck.

Alina Delatorre told WTVD that she had rushed to the hospital from California to see her child.

I cant ever forget the cold feeling that I felt holding her hand, the mother said.

According to court records cited by WRAL, Mistys parents had been involved in a custody battle in the weeks leading up to her death, with Ceville eventually gaining primary custody.

Under the custody judgment, Misty would spend six months out of the year with each parent  but she was just three days into her stay with Ceville when she was hospitalized, according to the outlet.

Since then, Alina Delatorre and her mother, Misty Bray, have worked to get justice for the 8-month-old.

This is sad. Im just devastated. I cant believe it, Bray told WTVD after this weeks hearing. We dont know how to feel. Its just a lot.

Need help? In the U.S., call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Related...
Officials in Congress, Gov. Josh Shapiro's office, the Pennsylvania General Assembly representatives for Somerset County, U.S. State Department and the public outcry have made it possible to bring Bryan Hagerich home.

Hagerich, a Somerset County resident, was released Friday. He had faced a minimum mandatory 12-year sentence in the Turks and Caicos Islands for what has been called mistakenly having some ammunition in one of his bags he had used for a hunting trip. The ammunition was found when he was exiting the Islands from a family vacation.

Bryan Hagerich

NBC reported Judge Tanya Lobban Jackson sentenced him to "52 weeks but 12 months suspended," meaning he will not serve any time in jail. He was also fined $6,700.

This is great news. Bryan is coming home to his family. It was an honor to meet Bryan and the other detained Americans in TCI this week," U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., said in a prepared statement.

Fetterman returned Monday from a trip to Turks and Caicos in which a delegation that also included U.S. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pa., among others, sought the release of Hagerich and four other Americans held on similar charges.

More: 'Temper justice with mercy' Gov. Shapiro ask Turks and Caicos to send US residents home

When we met with TCI officials a few days ago, they made clear that they wanted this situation resolved. They recognized that Bryan and the other detained Americans are not gunrunners  they are just people who made a mistake. Im grateful that the judge recognized that the right thing to do was to send Bryan home. Im also grateful to the U.S. State Department, which has been a critical partner in bringing Bryan home," Fetterman said in the statement.

Somerset County Commissioners also had something to say about the situation.

Somerset County Commissioners Chairman Brian Fochtman said, "Any help we can get from the federal government for Somerset County citizens, we appreciate it."

He and Commissioner Irv Kimmel said this (situation) could have a dramatic effect on travel.

Commissioner Pamela Tokar-Ickes like so many in Somerset County knows the Hagerich family.

"I am elated the Hagerich family is reunited and want to credit the efforts of Sens. Casey and Fetterman and Congressman Reschenthaler in working toward his release," she said.

"While I am overjoyed to see Bryan Hagerich will be returning to Pennsylvania and reuniting with his wife and two children, this terrifying situation should have never happened to him, or the four other Americans still awaiting sentencing, Reschenthaler said in a prepared statement.As the Turks and Caicos government works to handle future cases, the British territory must ensure the safety and well-being of U.S. tourists. I wont rest until Americans can once again set foot on their islands without putting their livelihoods at risk.

Fetterman agreed.

"Im hopeful that TCI expedites the rest of these cases and that the other detained Americans will soon be released and reunited with their families as well," he said.

The Daily American reached out to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., for comments and they responded with a statement on their X pages, formerly Twitter.

"So glad Bryan is coming back home to his wife Ashley and their kids in Somerset County. Turks and Caicos got it right with this final outcome, as Governors @GovStitt, @GovernorVA, and I advocated for," Shapiro wrote.

"I'm wishing the best to the Americans still detained in TCI and reminding all Pennsylvanians: Please check all applicable laws before traveling abroad," he said.

Casey wrote: "Great news. Im grateful that the authorities in Turks and Caicos exercised leniency and that Bryan Hagerich will soon be on his way home to his family in Somerset."

In an earlier comment to the Daily American, Casey said, "Bryan Hagerich has been separated from his family for too long."

This article originally appeared on The Daily American: Somerset County man coming home, Turks and Caicos sentence suspended
South Africa ask World Court for more emergency measures over Israel's Rafah offensive, in The Hague

By Tannur Anders and Anait Miridzhanian

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -South Africa's government on Friday hailed as ground-breaking a ruling by the World Court that ordered Israel to halt its military assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Judges at the International Court of Justice earlier on Friday backed a South African request to order Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah, a week after Pretoria called for the measure in a case accusing Israel of genocide - an allegation Israel has denied.

"This order is ground-breaking as it is the first time that explicit mention is made for Israel to halt its military action in any area of Gaza," Zane Dangor, director-general of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, said in a video clip shared by the department.

While welcoming the court's ruling, President Cyril Ramaphosa's office said South Africa remained concerned that the United Nations Security Council had not succeeded in stopping the human suffering in Gaza.

"This case is focused on the ordinary Palestinians in Gaza who are now facing their seventh month of suffering through collective punishment for something for which they have no individual responsibility," he said in a statement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office rejected South Africa's allegations on Friday, calling them false and outrageous.

Israel has repeatedly dismissed the case's accusations of genocide as baseless, arguing in court that its operations in Gaza are self-defence and targeted at Hamas militants who attacked Israel on Oct. 7.

Dangor said South Africa would approach the UN Security Council with the issue of the court ordering Israel to allow access to investigators.

(Writing by Anait Miridzhanian and Bhargav Acharya; Editing by Alexander Winning and Sharon Singleton)
SYDNEY, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The state government of Western Australia (WA) has recently established a new trade office in China's Zhejiang Province, eyeing new trade and investment opportunities.

"We've enjoyed a sister-state relationship with Zhejiang Province for more than 30 years, and with rapidly growing opportunities in clean energy, technology, and primary industries, now is the time to step up our engagement," WA Premier Roger Cook announced Thursday.

"A strong trading relationship with China will help to ensure our economy remains strong long into the future, helping to support local jobs right across WA," he added.

In addition to one in Shanghai, the new branch in Hangzhou marks WA's second Invest and Trade Office in China, which is expected to "deepen WA's longstanding relationship with Zhejiang Province and promote further economic opportunities."

According to a statement by the state government, WA renewed its sister-state agreement with Zhejiang Province, with a focus on expanding trade prospects in primary industries, technology, new energy, and health and medical life sciences.

Meanwhile, the universities in WA also share strong collaborative relationships with their Zhejiang counterparts in research and development.

"China is our largest trading partner, and the opening of the new Hangzhou office reflects our ongoing commitment to developing new trade and investment opportunities to support local jobs," Cook noted. 
FILE PHOTO: President of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Velenkosini Hlabisa delivers his speech to supporters at the Election Manifesto launch in Durban

FILE PHOTO: President of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Velenkosini Hlabisa delivers his speech to supporters at the Election Manifesto launch in Durban

By Nellie Peyton

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) will try to form a governing coalition that excludes the African National Congress should the ruling party lose its parliamentary majority in national elections next week, the IFP leader said.

Polls suggest the ANC could win between 40-50% of the vote on May 29, which would compel it to seek partnerships with one or more opposition parties to continue governing after 30 years in power.

Political analysts have identified the IFP, a conservative party with an ethnic Zulu base that came fourth in the last election in 2019, as a potential coalition partner for the ANC.

However, IFP leader Velenkosini Hlabisa said the ANC had failed the South African people and he would seek to form other alliances before making a deal with it.

"The ANC has destroyed our country. If you want to rebuild South Africa, it could be a hard thing to bring along a person who destroyed the country and whom people voted out," Hlabisa told Reuters.

"We will explore other opportunities (first)," he said.

The IFP, which currently has 14 seats in the National Assembly, is part of an alliance of opposition parties called the Multi-Party Charter that hopes to oust the ANC. No opinion poll has shown that it could get close to a majority.

If it does not, Hlabisa said it would look to recruit other small parties and independent candidates to help it surpass the 50% mark.

"You don't form a coalition for the sake of it. You form a coalition because you share common views, values, and direction," he said. "If opposed, it can't work."

The ANC has also said a coalition government won't work, pointing to failed power-sharing attempts at the local level.

(Reporting by Nellie Peyton; Editing by Estelle Shirbon and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
This article was originally published in SC Daily Gazette.

COLUMBIA  Education majors at South Carolina colleges can get additional scholarship aid starting this fall under a bill Gov. Henry McMaster signed into law Monday.

The new law, which passed both the House and Senate unanimously, is meant to encourage more students to become teachers amid an ever-worsening teacher shortage, supporters said.

It extends to education majors the same boost in lottery-backed scholarships that state law has offered students majoring in math and science since 2007.

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Students receiving the money must agree to teach at a public school in the state for as many years as they received the scholarship, which can be a maximum of four years.

Im thrilled to death, said Senate Education Chairman Greg Hembree, the bills main sponsor. It was one of those no-brainer pieces of legislation to assist with trying to retain teachers.

As of February, public K-12 schools in the state had 1,315 open positions for teachers, librarians, counselors, psychologists and speech therapists, according to the mid-year update from the Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention & Advancement.

The scholarships will be available this coming school year to college sophomores, juniors and seniors who went to high school in South Carolina and are already receiving LIFE or Palmetto Fellows scholarships, which are awarded to students who meet academic criteria. The money is meant to cover students remaining tuition after other scholarships are applied.

LIFE Scholarship recipients can get up to $2,500 more on top of the $5,000 they already receive, and Palmetto Fellows Scholarship recipients can get up to $3,300 added to their $7,500. The money will come from lottery profits.

If the number of students studying education in the state remains consistent this coming year, students will receive an additional $8 million in scholarships, the state Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office estimated.

That number should increase if the program accomplishes its goal in enticing more students toward the teaching profession, Hembree said.

Although offering scholarships wont solve the teacher shortage, it might draw in a few more students on the fence about pursuing education by offering more money for doing so, said the Little River Republican.

What Im thinking about is the one (student) whos on the border, thinking, Maybe this, maybe that, Hembree said.

Along with encouraging high school students to pursue teaching, the program will likely keep teachers in the profession by reducing how much student loan debt they have to pay, said Patrick Kelly, a lobbyist for the Palmetto State Teachers Association.

We think this is one of the best actions taken by the General Assembly this session to help with teacher recruitment, said Kelly, who also teaches advanced government courses at Blythewood High School.

Lawmakers also plan to increase the minimum teacher salary in the state from $42,500 to $47,000 in the coming year in part of the effort to reduce the teacher shortage. The budget process is not yet finished, but the House and Senate have agreed to the teacher salary numbers.

Other efforts

Several other bills meant to address a shortage of teachers did not make it to the finish line this year.

One would have allowed teachers more time to back out of contracts. Another would have accounted for experience outside of the classroom in determining a teachers pay.

Those wouldve really moved the needle, Kelly said.

Advocates have been pushing for more flexibility in teacher contracts for years. Teachers must sign their contracts by mid-May, usually weeks before their local school board sets their pay. If a teacher breaks their contract after signing, they lose their certification for a year, beginning whenever the State Board of Education hears their case.

The bill proposed this year would have allowed teachers to bow out of their contracts within 10 days of seeing their salaries. Anyone who withdrew from their contract between then and six months would also face reduced penalties.

That could help teachers get back in the classroom more quickly if they need to leave the district for another reason, such as dealing with a family emergency or moving alongside a spouse, advocates have said.

The House passed the bill, but the Senate did not take it up.

Because teacher pay is decided based on how many years someone has been teaching, accounting for real-world experience in a field could draw in more teachers by making it more appealing for people to consider teaching when switching fields, Kelly said.

Both the House and Senate passed their own versions of that proposal but failed to create a committee to work out the differences before the end of session.

Im really disappointed to see that not make it to the finish line, Kelly said.

Another of Hembrees bills that would have allowed people with at least five years of experience in their field to teach without getting certified did not become law this year.

That bill faced significantly more opposition than other proposals, with Kelly and some lawmakers raising questions over whether people would have adequate training to handle classrooms full of students.

The proposal is not likely to bring in many people, but it could help fill some of the classrooms with all-virtual teachers or long-term substitutes, Hembree said. He plans to reintroduce it next year.

Its a game of inches, Hembree said. You just keep coming back and try again.

Gov. Henry McMaster signed more than 50 bills into law this week. Others he signed:

SC Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. SC Daily Gazette maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Seanna Adcox for questions: info@scdailygazette.com. Follow SC Daily Gazette on Facebook and Twitter.
South SF janitor causes nearby schools to shelter in place

(KRON)  The South San Francisco Police Department arrested Timothy Nhok, a 37-year-old janitor and South San Francisco resident, on Tuesday for shooting a gun near several schools in the area, the department said.

At about 2:40 p.m. on Tuesday, police responded to the 2400 block of Wright Court on the report of gunshots being heard. Due to the proximity of Nhok and the nearby schools, the schools were asked to shelter in Secure Campus mode, SSFPD said.

Further investigations revealed that Nhoks shots fired were an isolated incident that occurred at a residence on the 2400 block of Wright Court. SSFPD detectives executed a search warrant of Nhoks residence, locating two firearms, ammunition, and illegal narcotics, SSFPD said.

Nhok was then placed under arrest for the following:

Addict in possession of a firearm

Possession of narcotics for sale

Willful/grossly negligent discharge of a firearm

Child endangerment

He was later booked into the San Mateo County Jail.

This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Kerrigan at (650) 877-8900.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Authorities in Riverside County say they seized about $90,000 worth of illegal narcotics on Wednesday while serving a search warrant.

The Riverside County Sheriffs Office said its Lake Elsinore Sheriffs Station Special Enforcement Team received information about the sale of illegal drugs in the Lake Elsinore and Wildomar areas in February. Investigations led authorities to the 33000 block of Pamela Road in Lakeland Village, an unincorporated area of Lake Elsinore.

On Wednesday, deputies served a search warrant at the location, which was in a home across the street from Lakeland Village School.

Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for young people

Deputies seized about $90,000 worth of narcotics during the search, including more than 9,000 pills thought to be laced with fentanyl. Authorities also recovered more than 5 ounces of fentanyl, packaging supplies and controlled substance paraphernalia.

According to the sheriffs office, just one of those pills, and one grain of pure fentanyl, is enough to cause an overdose and potentially death.

Deputies arrested 46-year-old Gregory Lee Evans and 44-year-old Shannon Van Leeuwen, both of Lake Elsinore, on suspicion of numerous drug charges. They were booked into Cois Byrd Detention Center.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A 15-year-old boy in San Bernardino County has been taken into custody after authorities said he attempted to carjack a deputys patrol vehicle during a street takeover.

The incident unfolded on May 11 just after midnight when a crowd estimated at around 100 people surrounded the intersection of Victoria and Highland avenues with vehicles and opened a nearby fire hydrant to make it easier for the vehicles to drift, a news release from the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department stated.

Authorities say that a deputy from SBSDs Highland Sheriffs Station who stopped at a red light at the intersection inside his patrol vehicle was swarmed by the large crowd who began kicking and punching the vehicle.

Street Takeover Mob

The sheriffs unit suffered significant damage, including a completely broken windshield, before the deputy was able to drive away from the crowd and get to safety, authorities said.

During their investigation of the incident, detectives obtained video that they believe identifies the 15-year-old Menifee resident as the primary suspect, saying the teen opened the deputys driver-side door and attempted to overtake the deputy and his patrol unit.

An arrest warrant and a search warrant were issued for the juvenile.

He was taken into custody at around 6:30 a.m. on May 23 at his residence and booked into the San Bernardino County Juvenile Hall on charges of felony vandalism and attempted carjacking.

Authorities did not say whether they are searching for additional individuals involved in the street takeover or if they expect more arrests in the case.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact SBSDs Highland Sheriffs Station at 909-425-9793. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-782-7463 or leave tips online at www.wetip.com.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Many Hawaii residents oppose plans from the U.S. Space Force to build a suite of new telescopes designed to track satellites and prevent them from colliding in orbit.

The Department of the Air Force has proposed building up to seven new telescopes and an optics lab on the summit of Haleakala on the Hawaiian Island of Maui. The project, called the Air Force Maui Optical and Supercomputing Site Small Telescope Advanced Research (AMOS STAR) facility, would occupy about an acre of land near the Haleakala Observatory . A series of three public scoping meetings about the project were held between May 13 -15, allowing community members to voice their concerns as an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is being drafted to outline how the project could impact its surrounding environment.

At one of the recent meetings, local Hawaiians strongly voiced their opposition to the construction of the telescope, Hawaii News Now reported. "This project is not merely about stars and satellites," a resident said at a meeting on May 14. "It is a continuation of settled colonial projects."

Related: Orbital 'parking spots' could help prevent satellite traffic jams

"Over the last two nights, I think there must be at least 99 percent 'no,'" another resident said during one of the meetings, Hawaii News Now reported. "Is that enough? If not, what will it take?"

Despite the objections, U.S. military officials stress that it is necessary for U.S. national security and space domain awareness.

"As more things are in orbit, more objects, there's more potential for collision," a military official said during a public meeting on May 14 at the Mayor H. Tavares Community Center in Pukalani, according to Hawaii News Now. "With more objects in space, we need more telescopes to more frequently track the objects in space."

The U.S. Space Force has previously faced criticism surrounding the proposed AMOS STAR facility in prior meetings, especially after 700 gallons of diesel fuel leaked from a malfunctioning generator at the space surveillance complex last year. Native Hawaiians claim the project is desecrating sacred spaces and is negatively impacting their mental, emotional and spiritual health.

Other telescope projects on Hawaiian islands have faced similar opposition in the past.

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Plans for the AMOS STAR facility include up to seven telescopes enclosed in domes that would be constructed on a developed site adjacent to the Haleakala Observatory and the 15th Space Surveillance Squadron (15 SPSS) Maui Space Surveillance Complex (MSSC), from which the new telescopes would be primarily operated remotely. Building the new facility would require fiber optic links from the MSSC, a paved access drive and parking facilities, surface water runoff management measures, and other site improvements.

Public comments on the proposed site will be accepted through June 7 and can be submitted on the project website at www.amosstareis.com , via email to amosstareis@tetratech.com , or mailed to AMOS STAR EIS c/o Tetra Tech, 1230 Columbia St., Ste. 1000, San Diego, CA 92101.
WASHINGTON  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene suffered a stinging public defeat on the House floor earlier this month when the vast majority of lawmakers in the lower chamber, tired with the Georgia Republicans antics, voted to kill her push to remove Mike Johnson, R-La., as speaker.

But that loss appeared to be just a minor blip in Greenes rising career - and it's only amplified talk she could join a future Trump administration or run for a higher office in Georgia like senator or governor.

House lawmakers have a tendency to think of themselves going to the next level, one of Greene's fellow GOP colleagues from the Peach State, Rep. Rich McCormick told USA TODAY.

I dont think shes any exception to that," he added. "When you get a lot of media and when you raise a lot of money, theres a natural tendency to gravitate towards that, so well see how that plays out.

Most of her current House colleagues have moved on from Greenes effort and threat to oust Johnson  which failed in anticlimactic fashion  and following the vote, the mild-mannered House speaker told Greene harbors no ill will toward her. The crush of reporters and cameras Greene, who turns 50 years old on Monday, attracted every day while she held back her threat have largely fizzled out as well.

Thats not to say Greene, a second-term lawmaker running for a third term this November, fell into obscurity after the speaker fight. She quickly made headlines again after a contentious House Oversight Committee hearing where lawmakers threw insults at each other amid allegations of drinking.

Greene took aim at Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, telling her, I think your fake eyelashes are messing up what youre reading.

Crockett responded in kind: Im just curious ... If someone on this committee then starts talking about somebodys bleach blonde bad built butch body, that would not be engaging in personalities, correct? (Crockett soon filed a trademark application for the phrase bleach blonde bad built butch body.")

The exchange went viral and soon after, Greene was the center of attention again on Capitol Hill, albeit negative coverage  Crockett, a Black woman, later called Greene a blatant racist for her comments on her eyelashes  but attention nonetheless. Her ability to almost always make news has prompted constant speculation on what lies in the ultraconservatives future.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., speak to members of the press while exiting the U.S. Capitol after introducing a motion to vacate on the floor of the House of Representatives seeking to remove Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., from his leadership position May 8, 2024 in Washington, DC.

When approached by USA TODAY about her career plans beyond 2024 on Wednesday, Greene didn't say if she was considering launching any future bids.

Oh my goodness, what is today? Wednesday? Were on Wednesday in May of 2024, lets do Wednesday, Greene responded when asked if she is considering a 2026 Senate bid to unseat Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff. Lets try to at least maybe pass a budget that doesnt fund Bidens open borders. Maybe we can defund Jack Smith.

When asked about possibly running in the 2026 Republican primaries to replace term-limited Gov. Brian Kemp as well, Greene reiterated the elections are years away: Dude, Im on Wednesday. Im trying to do Wednesday.

Since entering the House in 2021, Greene quickly rose to prominence as a hard-right lawmaker with complete fealty to former President Donald Trump, adopting his populism and creating an identity as a conservative bomb thrower. Greene became  and remains today  one of House Republicans strongest fundraisers, commanding massive cash hauls every fundraising quarter. Her campaign wheeled in over six figures after she announced her intent to remove Johnson as speaker, NOTUS reported.

Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., described Greene to USA TODAY as a queen of the internet.

In our district, shes just as strong. Specifically in the south, shes very strong and theyre gonna hate on her but shes just gonna keep fighting. I think thats what makes her stronger, Burchett said.

The rapid pace of Capitol Hill where the news of the day is quickly forgotten the following day, her fundraising abilities and penchant for always making news despite failing in her effort to topple Johnson highlights her staying power. For Greene, its not clear whether she wants to stay in the House or is shooting for higher office.

That could be either in another Trump administration if he wins back the White House or notably, in her home state of Georgia, both a Senate seat and the governors seat will be up for grabs in 2026.

Back in Georgia, state Republicans have mixed views on Greenes future.

She would be smart to stay in the House. I think she serves some sort of purpose there, though Im not sure if I know exactly what it is, said Skyler Akins, executive vice president of the Atlanta Young Republicans.

Akins hometown is in Greenes northwestern Georgia district and he described it as very white, its still very conservative, its still very religious, which isnt reflective of the whole state.

The governors seat also might not be a good fit for Greene, who has built her reputation as a rabble rouser, since it's a position at an executive level, like governor, would require compromise and shes shown herself to be nothing but incapable of doing that, Akins said.

Steve Brown, former Republican mayor of Peachtree City, Georgia, and a former commissioner for Fayette County, said he could easily see Greene run for governor and that he was certain influential Georgians are discussing Greene as a possible gubernatorial candidate.

Greenes failed push to oust Johnson, Brown argued, was widely appreciated by nearly half the voting population since Greene is someone who actually stands on her core principles, so rare in Congress ... she is still a principled star among the Trump faithful, for sure.

And while its true that 2026 is still a ways away, that doesnt mean theres high interest in the Peach State for both seats. Rep. Rick Allen, R-Ga., expects both primaries to be highly contested, and added there was a deep bench of prospective candidates waiting in Georgia.

Whether that includes Greene, Allen declined to speculate saying I have absolutely no idea.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) (behind) speak to members of the press on the steps of the House of Representatives at the U.S. Capitol on May 8, 2024, in Washington, DC. The House voted overwhelmingly to save Speaker Johnson from Marjorie Taylor Greene's push to oust him from his leadership position, voting 359 to 43 to table the motion to vacate.

McCormick on the other hand was more than happy to muse about Greenes possible future and said he wouldnt be shocked at all if he saw his fellow Georgian make a run for either Senate or the governors mansion in 2026.

He did note that Greene, who represents a ruby red congressional district, could have challenges in a statewide general election race, pointing to past failed candidates such as Herschel Walker for the U.S. Senate. Weve shown that for the last three Senate races, which were very winnable, we lost. We need to make sure we choose the most electable conservative we can find, he said.

McCormick didnt say whether he thought Greene was fit for a statewide race: Anybodys electable, but the question is: Whats your best shot?

One of Greenes antagonists (of which she has many) openly welcomed the idea of her seeking a more prestigious position if it meant shes no longer the Houses problem.

I would encourage her to run for Senate, for governor. I would encourage her to go into the Trump administration, Rep. Max Miller, R-Ohio, told USA TODAY with a smirk on his face. Anything that she would like to set her heart and desire on to get her out of this place would be awesome.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What's next for Marjorie Taylor Greene after speaker defeat?
A shortsighted snub of Kenyas president by House Speaker Mike Johnson has drawn condemnation from the Congressional Black Caucus.

The caucus met with Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday and denounced Johnsons refusal to host the leader for a joint meeting of Congress, an offer traditionally extended to other world leaders. Johnson is planning to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak at the Capitol, for example, an invite that has understandably been met with criticism as Israels military faces international condemnation over its bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

While @SpeakerJohnson might not have given the President of Kenya the opportunity to address a Joint Session of Congress, the CBC was proud to welcome President Ruto to the United States Capitol today. We were honored to present President Ruto honorary membership in the CBC. pic.twitter.com/xtgQU0hZZL  The Black Caucus (@TheBlackCaucus) May 22, 2024

Such an address from Ruto would have been the first by an African leader in nearly two decades, according to USA Today. The outlet reported that more than 60 members of the Congressional Black Caucus signed a letter to Johnson demanding that Ruto be treated with the same respect granted to other heads of state. And they warned him that the lack of an invite, which Johnsons office told USA Today was due to a scheduling conflict, sends a dangerous message about which countries are deemed worthy of addressing Congress and that it diminishes the importance of our nations relationship with the continent of Africa.

President Joe Biden, for the record, invited Ruto to the White House for an official state visit, including a state dinner.In its statement to USA Today, Johnsons office said: We offered the Kenyan embassy over 90 minutes of engagement including a one-on-one visit with Speaker Johnson, bipartisan leadership meeting with Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, and Committee Chairmen and Ranking Members, and a bicameral meeting.

Here, for example, is footage of Johnson sitting for a photo op with Ruto in the Capitol, an arrangement that inarguably lacked the pageantry of a joint congressional address.

President Ruto meets with United States House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson as Kenya and the US celebrate 60 years of international relations. pic.twitter.com/aKH5sd1365  NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) May 23, 2024

Johnsons snub speaks to what I deem to be an American arrogance or ignorance about African nations roles as power brokers, both now and in the future. I felt similarly last year, when then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy booted Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Minnesota Democrat whos the only African-born member of the House, from the Foreign Affairs Committee and its subcommittee on Africa.Africa has the youngest, fastest-growing population in the world, its rich in resources needed to power the high-tech revolution, its leaders are increasingly wary of U.S. imperialism and paternalism, and lately some of its nations have shown openness to cooperating with China and Russia. Now is the time for the U.S. to make serious inroads with Africa  and not presume their leaders will be satisfied with mere sit-downs and photo ops.

Fortunately, many Democrats, including Biden, seem to have gotten the message. Republicans? Not so much.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The state of Delaware systemically fails to provide legally adequate education to young people with learning disabilities inside its prison facilities, according to a federal lawsuit filed Thursday.

The lawsuit claims the program responsible for providing special education for students in Delaware prisons has been legally deficient and has failed students for years  and that officials are aware of this.

Filed by the Community Legal Aid Society, Inc., known as CLASI, which is the designated public advocate in Delaware for people with disabilities, the lawsuit paints a picture of a system that is required to provide specialized instruction but that amounts to "self-study" with students learning in literal shackles or divided from instructors by plexiglass walls.

Students who have complained in recent years have been subject to retaliation, according to the lawsuit that was filed in conjunction with attorneys from Terris, Pravlik & Millian LLP, a Washington, D.C.-based public interest law firm.

Named as defendants are leaders of the state's Department of Education and the Department of Correction, as well as state education officials charged with working with correction leaders to provide education to incarcerated students. An official for the Department of Education declined to comment. A spokesperson for the Department of Correction also declined comment.

The lawsuit seeks a court injunction to require the state to fix a myriad of problems outlined in the 98-page initial complaint.

Editor's Note: read the full complaint at the bottom of this story.

The lawsuit seeks systemic change to issues CLASI officials say they have observed while representing people with disabilities seeking to remedy their situations.

"It is disheartening that they have been told time and time again that this program is deficient, yet they do nothing," said CLASI Disabilities Law Program Project Director Marissa Band. "It is time for (the state) to make real, lasting changes."

CLASI Disabilities Law Program Project Director Marissa Band

The law

All states are required to provide special education and related services to all students with disabilities.

Those related services include individualized education programs that are crafted with respect to the students needs, which can include mental illness or particular learning disabilities. The programs are to be crafted with input from the student and parent or other educational representative and must be regularly reevaluated.

Those related services also include behavioral interventions and supports like counseling, as well as systems to evaluate whether a students disciplinary violations are a result of their disabilities.

This applies to all students with disabilities and does not end when such a person is incarcerated. The requirement continues until the end of the school year when the student reaches 22 years old and includes young people who have been sentenced or are awaiting trial.

This is particularly important because society locks up young people with a general expectation that they will not simply be punished, but instead be rehabilitated and returned to society.

Basic skills taught in grade school are a key part of surviving in society. And these are students who have an already identified need for special education services and are often the most in need of support in education.

James T. Vaughn Correctional Center near Smyrna

"Without a high school education, these students are at increased risk to end up back in prison again," said Todd Gluckman, a partner at the law firm partnering with CLASI on the lawsuit.

The federal government provides funding for such education and federal law outlines requirements states must meet in providing that education. Delaware law includes similar provisions. Among several specific requirements embodied by both federal and state law is a baseline that the students have a right to education that provides "significant learning" and "confers meaningful benefit on the child with a disability that is gauged ... to their potential."

Delaware law also specifically bars educational placement decisions based on the "amount of funding" versus the needs of the student.

Shackled learning

CLASI claims the baseline requirements, as well as a myriad of other aspects of the law, are not being met by the Adult and Prison Education Resources Workgroup, known as APER. It's the division of the state's Department of Education responsible for administering the state's prison education program with the Department of Correction. Maureen Forde-Whelan is the division's director and is named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

To argue a larger point about the system, the complaint tells the story of three young people with special education needs it says were locked up in recent years, failed to receive adequate services and successfully petitioned an oversight board to acknowledge those failures.

Each of the students outlined in the lawsuit had educational disabilities identified before their imprisonment and shared similar issues with the education they received once locked inside both Howard R. Young Correctional Institution in Wilmington and James T. Vaughn Correctional Center near Smyrna.

It claims students are often made to wait unnecessarily without education, putting them closer to the cutoff date when educational services are no longer required.

It claims that required individualized education programs are focused on the agencies' perceived resources and not with consideration of the students' actual needs and provide "woefully deficient" amounts of specialized instruction. It also claims parents and students are often cut out of the development of those plans.

Family members and supporters of Delaware prisoners gather outside Howard R. Young Correctional Institution in Wilmington on Friday to protest the Department of Corrections' handling of COVID-19 behind bars.

Once the plan is in place, the instruction that comes with it is better described as "self-study" with "occasional guidance." The amount of instruction can vary widely. The setting can also vary.

Examples listed in the lawsuit include students being taught with arms shackled to their bodies or desks. One teacher learned to write backward in order to use a plexiglass divider as a board to write on. The complaint asserts these and other restrictions are unnecessary and notes the law requires that the education be administered in the least restrictive environment possible.

The complaint claims that behavioral supports like counseling are generally unavailable. An intervention provided to one student was to redirect frustrations through working out or reading, according to the complaint. Mental health services are provided by an unrelated contractor in Delaware prisons, which the lawsuit says does not coordinate with the students' education plans.

The lack of these supports and interventions, along with inadequate education, commonly leads to students disengaging and exhibiting "problem behavior." In prison, that behavior is met with punishment that is confinement to a more restrictive part of the prison, where education is generally less available and more restricted, the lawsuit states.

Because of this harmful cycle, the law requires the education provider to consider whether behavior that led to punishment was a manifestation of the student's disability or a failure to implement the planned education program, and if so, take steps to address the problem. These reviews do not occur in Delaware facilities, the lawsuit states.

Problems known to officials

CLASI has filed and litigated complaints on behalf of the three individuals outlined in the lawsuit. In each case, an oversight board found that the education provided was insufficient to meet the requirements of the law. The lawsuit is broader and seeks systemic change, not just relief for those individuals.

It does claim that state education officials withheld paperwork from lawyers and parents and in one case, ended small-group learning sessions for one student in retaliation for the complaints.

It also excerpts portions of the state's response to each complaint to show that officials know the service they are providing is insufficient. In hearings, officials acknowledged deficiencies and stated that education plans are built considering available resources, not the students' actual needs, according to hearings excerpts included in the lawsuit. It also excerpts larger reports on the system dating back to 1989 that acknowledge deficiencies in complying with relevant laws.

It claims the required fixes outlined in those reports as well as the findings in the three individuals' cases have not been implemented. CLASI attorneys have also sought reforms through communication with state officials to no avail, the lawsuit states.

It asks for a court to issue an injunction ordering those remedies by developing new policies and procedures to ensure students receive the education required by law.

The lawsuit is one of multiple legal challenges seeking systemic reforms in Delaware prisons. Those include:

Contact Xerxes Wilson at (302) 324-2787 or xwilson@delawareonline.com

special education prisons' lawsuit | PDF | Individualized Education Program | Special Education

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware failing special education students in prison: Lawsuit
Special session for ensuring President Biden makes Ohio's fall ballot could take several days

FILE - President Joe Biden speaks on April 12, 2024, in Washington. Lawmakers in Ohio have failed to come to agreement on adjusting a state election deadline that stands to prevent President Joe Biden from appearing on 2024 ballots by the deadline Thursday, May 9, 2024. The cutoff to make Ohios ballot is Aug. 7, two weeks before the Democratic National Convention. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  The rare special session that Republican Gov. Mike DeWine has called to pass legislation ensuring President Joe Biden appears on Ohios fall ballot could take several days.

Due to differing interpretations of the proclamation DeWine issued Thursday, the Ohio Senate scheduled a single day of activity for Tuesday but a spokesman said the Ohio House plans to begin with two days of committee hearings before taking its vote Thursday.

A Senate spokesman said it's possible the upper chamber can convene Tuesday and then recess to wait for the House.

Negotiations between the chambers on a solution to Biden's ballot conundrum began Friday. State Rep. Bill Seitz told reporters during a conference call that he and state Sen. Rob McColley, both Republicans, are leading the talks.

The legislation needs only to move Ohios Aug. 7 ballot deadline so that it falls after the Democratic National Convention where Biden will be formally nominated, which is scheduled for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago. Ohio has moved the deadline in the past for candidates of both parties.

But the Senate sent its version of the ballot fix to the House after attaching a prohibition on foreign nationals donating to Ohio ballot campaigns, stopping it in its tracks.

DeWine urged legislators to pass the combination measure during the special session  but Democrats have balked, saying the proposal goes beyond the foreign nationals ban to add requirements intended to make it more difficult to mount future ballot campaigns in the state.

That's after Ohio voters overwhelmingly approved three ballot measures last year, including a constitutional amendment protecting access to abortions opposed by Republicans and an initiated statute legalizing adult-use marijuana.

A clean House bill containing only the adjustment to Ohio's ballot deadline may also be considered.
MOGADISHU, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) anti-piracy force (EUNAVFOR) said Friday that a Liberian-flagged merchant vessel, Basilisk, has been freed from suspected pirates off the coast of Somalia.

EUNAVFOR Operation Atalanta, the EU counter-piracy naval force in the region, said the 17 crew members are safe after being hijacked on Thursday about 380 nautical miles east of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, while sailing north.

"Thursday night, the Atalanta warship patrolling the area arrived, and the Atalanta forces went on board the vessel using the Fast-Rope technique from the helicopter," the EU naval force said in a statement.

It said that during the attack of the suspected pirates, one of the crew was injured but is in stable condition after being treated on board by Atalanta's medical team.

"Throughout the complete event, Operation Atalanta was in permanent contact with the ship-owner company and the flagship state," the statement said.

The incident came a month after warning of a return of pirate attacks on seas along the Somalia coastline.

The International Chamber of Commerce's International Maritime Bureau (IMB), in its April 10 report, urged shipping vessels to remain vigilant as they transit along the Somalia coastline and the Gulf of Aden, as piracy remains a threat despite attacks having declined since 2017. 
(Getty Images)

The University of Missouri, on behalf of St. Louis Public Radio, is making an unprecedented legal claim of sovereign immunity in the defamation lawsuit filed against it by former general manager Tim Eby.

Eby maintains he was defamed by stories quoting station employees accusing him of upholding white supremacy.

The universitys legal filings describe the station as an arm of the state exercising exclusively governmental functions and conclude it should receive immunity from Ebys suit.

Ebys lawsuit is against the Board of Curators of the University of Missouri, who hold the license for St. Louis Public Radio. The legal defense of sovereign immunity originates with the university lawyers.

The legal filings do not cite a case where a public broadcasting network affiliated with a state has won a claim to sovereign immunity in a defamation case. A LexisNexis search by Gateway Journalism Review found no decisions where a federal or state court had recognized this government immunity from a defamation suit for a public broadcaster with a government affiliation.

Sovereign immunity is a doctrine from English law to protect the king and government from lawsuits. Former president Donald Trump builds on this doctrine in claiming absolute immunity for presidential acts. Police officers and other government officials also receive qualified immunity from many civil rights suits.

But, until now, no public broadcasting operation has won such a claim. In fact they have run away from government entanglements.

Last year National Public Radio complained when Elon Musks X platform labeled NPR state-affiliated and government-funded media. NPR stopped posting content on X because it thought the government labels undermined their journalists independence.

John Lansing, head of NPR, said at the time: It would be a disservice to the serious work you all do here to continue to share it on a platform that is associating the federal charter for public media with an abandoning of editorial independence or standards.

When Congress established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the statute explicitly stated it will not be an agency or establishment of the United States Government.

The universitys legal argument in the Eby case is that the station is in effect an arm of the state exercising exclusively governmental functions and is therefore immune from liability in the same way as the State Department of Agriculture or a public hospital district.

Ebys attorney, Christian Montroy, expressed surprise that St. Louis Public Radio is representing its news organization as state-run media immune from defamation suits that other media would face for publishing or broadcasting the same content.

Ebys legal filing argues that portraying St. Louis Public Radio as exercising exclusively governmental functions conflicts with St. Louis Public Radios frequently expressed claim of being editorially independent, which is expressed in its Statement of Editorial Integrity.

That statement says:

.even though the University of Missouri System Board of Curators owns our FCC license, we maintain editorial independence of our content. This is in alignment with UMSLs foundational principle of academic independence upon which the University of Missouri system is founded. The support we receive from the University of Missouri-St. Louis does not influence our editorial content or news coverage.

Tina Pamintuan, St. Louis Public Radios CEO (and Ebys replacement), told the Riverfront Times, which first reported on the sovereign immunity claim, that the public need not worry.

I am 100% confident in the journalism that is produced at STLPR, she said. Our reporters are highly trained professionals who take a lot of care in their work. STLPR exists to uplift its community and this region through fair, rigorous, fact-based news and information. That is our focus and its important that we continue to keep that in mind. Like all nonprofit media, we have limited resources that are put to best use by prioritizing our mission.

The sovereign immunity claim, which the state has been making since last fall, came before St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Joseph Patrick Whyte for a hearing last month. Joseph E. Martineau, a media lawyer serving as outside counsel for the state and station, declined to comment, as did Christian Basi, spokesman for the the University of Missouri.

Eby had been the stations general manager for 11 years until he was forced out in September 2020

His removal came after the contentious summer of 2020 when a group of staffers published a blog post accusing him of choosing to uphold white supremacy at the station. A story on the stations website linked to the blog post and another story a year later stated Eby resigned amid accusations from newsroom staff that he ignored problems of systemic racism at the station and mismanaged finances.

Eby maintains the station knew these statements were false.

Gateway Journalism Reviews Lexis search found only one defamation case in the nation where a public radio station connected to state government had tried to claim sovereign immunity in a defamation case. That one was in Missouri and the station lost.

In the 1982 case of Allen v. Salina Broadcasting, the Missouri Court of Appeals for the Southern District ruled that Salina Broadcasting could not claim sovereign immunity even though the public radio station was run by a public school.

The station had reported that Allen, a realtor, was starving his cattle to death.

The appeals court had to decide if the stations report was part of its governmental functions at the school, which would give it sovereign immunity, or instead was a proprietary function, which would mean it did not get sovereign immunity.

The court ruled the stations actions were proprietary.

At the time of the alleged defamatory broadcast there was substantially no student involvement.the particular news program complained of was handled and broadcast by paid staff personnel with students seldom, if ever, called upon to participate in any meaningful sense.

Ebys lawyer says the Salina case should control the decision on sovereign immunity in the St. Louis Public Radio case. The St. Louis station was acting in a proprietary, not governmental way, just like the Salina case.

At St. Louis Public Radio, paid staff compose and broadcast news reports without significant student help and the reports are broadcast to a wide audience, not just within the university.

The state, on behalf of the station, contends that Judge Whyte should not follow the Salina case because a university is different from a local school. It points out that a public hospital was found by Missouri courts to have sovereign immunity. St. Louis Public Radio is more like a public hospital than a public school, it argues.

This story was originally published by Gateway Journalism Review.

The post St. Louis Public Radio makes unprecedented sovereign immunity claim in defamation case appeared first on Missouri Independent.
St. Pete Beach fire chief accused of attacking bicyclist, nearly hitting him with truck: PCSO

ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. (WFLA)  Pinellas County deputies arrested a local fire chief on assault and battery charges after a traffic dispute turned heated, according to the sheriffs office.

A release from the Pinellas County Sheriffs Office said at about 5:10 p.m. Thursday, deputies arrested St. Pete Beach Fire Chief Thomas McClave, 55, while he was off-duty.

Man crashes into Bradenton nursing home, later shoots Manatee County deputy in arm, sheriff says

Deputies said McClave was driving behind a bicyclist on a shared bicycle-vehicle travel lane on Gulf Boulevard when he pulled up next to the other man and yelled at him to get out of the road.

According to the sheriffs office, the two men got into a shouting match before the bicyclist moved to the raised median on Gulf Boulevard.

The release said McClave followed the bicyclist and purposefully drove his personal pickup truck onto the median, nearly hitting the man and causing him to swerve out of the way.

The off-duty fire chief then got out of his truck, went up to the bicyclist, and shoved him twice, deputies said.

McClave also knocked a cell phone out of Hicks hands, as he was trying to record the

incident, the sheriffs office stated.

The chief was arrested on charges of aggravated assault with a motor vehicle and simple battery.

Deputies said McClave had been the St. Pete Beach Fire Departments chief since November 2023.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Starbucks, local law enforcement team up to raise money for Special Olympics

Starbucks, local law enforcement team up to raise money for Special Olympics

FRESNO, Cali. (KSEE/KGPE)  Special Olympics Northern California partnered with Starbucks and local law enforcement agencies on Friday, hosting a fundraiser at over 40 Starbucks locations in the Central Valley.

The Badges with Buckets fundraiser is part of efforts to fund free year-round programs.

Law enforcement personnel from numerous agencies joined Special Olympic athletes at the participating Starbucks locations. They greeted customers and collected donations for Special Olympics Northern California.

Special Olympics Northern California says the funds raised will help fund free year-round Special Olympics programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the Central Valley and throughout Northern California.

While donations at participating Starbucks locations concluded at 1 p.m. on Friday, donations are still being accepted online here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
Gov. Eric Holcomb speaks at the Indiana Global Economic Summit in downtown Indianapolis on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Startups, rejoice.

The state of Indiana and a local venture capital company plan to launch a $100 million venture capital fund targeted toward growth-stage firms, officials announced Thursday. The announcement came minutes after Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb opened the states second Global Economic Summit.

Indiana under Holcomb dedicated $250 million to start-ups in 2017. But officials said there was still a gap.

Now, in addition to being able to help cultivate and foster the growth from a start-up, now Indiana will continue to be able to play a key role in having that innovation go from  one stage to the next, Holcomb said.

This is filling that void thats been there, he added.

Elevate Ventures CEO Christopher Day speaks to reporters at the Indiana Global Economic Summit in downtown Indianapolis on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Elevate Ventures CEO Christopher Day indicated the fund was a long-held goal.

In the state of Indiana, we have never had a growth-stage fund. Ive been dreaming about this literally for 16 years, he said.

Day said he believed Indiana could be the innovation capital of the world, highlighting the states infrastructure, talent, cost of living and other key factors.

Elevate Ventures will anchor the fund with a $25 million commitment from its returns, according to a news release. The company plans to raise an additional $75 million through the private market.

It plans to begin forming the fund late in the second quarter  which stretches from April to June  and make its first investments in 2025, per the news release.

Most of the investments will be in fast series A start-ups, or Series B and beyond, Day said. Thats generally companies with $7-$8 million or more in revenue, he added. Theyd use the funds to scale product development, marketing and sales.

More deals close

Holcomb also joined Purdue University President Mung Chiang and Elanco CEO Jeff Summins Thursday afternoon to announce a new OneHealth Innovation District in Indianapolis.

Greenfield-based Elanco, an animal health firm, is building a new headquarters on the former GM stamping plant site located near downtown, on the White Rivers west bank.

The sprawling plant closed in 2011. After demolition, the site  which required environmental remediation  lay vacant for years. A previous proposal to redevelop the property died and a legal fight ensued, according to the Indianapolis Star.

Elancos new headquarters would now be accompanied by a shared-use research facility with space for offices, wet labs and incubators.

The research facility will propel the states vision to anchor our regional technology hub as a key addition to the One Health Innovation District aimed at accelerating collaborative innovation in our life sciences, Holcomb said in a news release. The partnership marks a rare and noteworthy move wherein a global health company, a university and a government come together with a shared vision. The district will create an ecosystem that is focused on talent, applied research and innovation that can be sustained for generations to come.

The partnership with the university, a part of the integrated One Health approach, is designed to increase the ability prevent, predict, detect and respond to health threats, according to the release.

Elanco further committed to sharing technology development capacity in its current Indianapolis facility and later in the completed innovation district, and to contributing up to $2 million to launch a new Animal Health Venture Fund.

Its also a win for Purdue, which will lose most of its presence in Circle City when its joint campus with Indiana University officially splits in July. Chiang, Purdues president, said all of his universitys programs would find homes throughout our states capital city.

Holcomb is additionally expected to announce new investment by homegrown pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. on Friday, according to his public schedule.

Outside dignitaries and business leaders gather

Minutes beforehand, Holcomb addressed a crowd of onlookers in a speech welcoming the summits more than 1,000 attendees.

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They include 41 delegations from more than 30 counties, according to Holcomb.

He touted Indianas economic growth and public health wins. He also doubled down on the states all of the above approach to fossil fuels and renewable energy sources.

And he sought to appeal to the summits outside guests by denouncing political philosophies opposed to involvement in foreign affairs and supportive of limits on foreign imports.

Isolationism and raw protectionism actually narrow future horizons, and even worse, show a profound lack of confidence, Holcomb said. Of course, todays new overseas investor here in Indiana may be a competitor to an American business. But  in no time at all that same foreign investor becomes a customer of an American business, not to mention a job creator, a community builder and a source of tax revenues, he continued.  The same thing happens when American companies invest and grow on your soil.

The post State announces $100 million growth-stage fund as Global Economic Summit kicks off appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
The New Mexico Project registered as a domestic nonprofit corporation in New Mexico last fall, and has since spent thousands of dollars on political advertising. But the group hasnt identified its donors. (Photo by Krisanapong Detraphiphat / Getty Images)

The State Ethics Commission on Friday sued a dark money group and its president, Jeff Apodaca, to force disclosure of the sources behind the money paying for political advertising in support of legislative candidates running in the June 4 primary election.

The New Mexico Project registered as a domestic nonprofit corporation in New Mexico last fall, and has since spent thousands of dollars on political advertising. But the group hasnt identified its donors.

New Mexico In Depth first published this story. It is republished here with permission.

In its 49-page complaint to the states Second Judicial District in Bernalillo County, the commission wrote that it is bringing the action to stop Defendants ongoing efforts to frustrate the publics right to know, citing 2019 reforms to the states Campaign Reporting Act that attempt to eliminate dark money.

Those changes specifically targeted independent expenditures for disclosure  money that groups spend on political advertising without input from candidates.

To make its case, the commission draws heavily upon Apodacas own words made through numerous media outlets, including the KKOB radio shows of Bob Clark and T.J. Trout, and a column by Apodaca published in The Santa Fe New Mexican.

It noted that Apodaca used the term independent expenditure to describe the groups spending, on Clarks May 1 radio show: Were an educational independent expenditure. So were going in and educating the voters on what we need to do to get out and vote and vote for the right candidates.

Citing Apodacas statements on that same show that his group can raise as much as it wants without having to disclose donors, the commission disagreed: TNMP is mistaken; the Campaign Reporting Act requires TNMP to give New Mexicans basic information about the sources of the money TNMP is using to influence their votes.

The complaint points to $10,000 paid to Cumulus Media for radio ads, noting that the memo line on the image of the check filed with the Federal Communications Commission by the radio stations states Radio Ad  Primary. The complaint also describes 33 Facebook ads placed by the group to support candidates.

The commission asks that the court order the group to register as a political committee, which under state law must disclose donors, or alternatively, that either the group or Apodaca be ordered to simply report the sources of the money spent on the political advertising.

New Mexico In Depth attempted through phone and email to reach Apodaca two weeks ago to ask why he had not disclosed the New Mexico Projects donors. On Friday afternoon, it emailed and used social media to ask if he would disclose those donors now that the State Ethics Commission has sued him and the group. As of Friday afternoon, he had not responded to New Mexico In Depth.

The post State Ethics Commission sues Jeff Apodacas dark money operation appeared first on Source New Mexico.
The state of Georgia has ordered a Brunswick daycare to shut its doors following the death of a one-year-old boy.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

A boy in the care of The Kids Nest Learning Center dies on Tue., May 21.

The Georgia State Department of Early Care and Learning will help other families find childcare options.

Under Georgia law, the daycare can appeal the order, or stay closed for up to 21 days while state investigators find out what happened to the child.

Impacted families may also connect with childcare resources at www.qualityrated.org or by calling 1-877-ALL GA KIDS.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  The Board of Governors for the University of North Carolina System voted Thursday to get rid of its diversity, equity and inclusion policy.

The decision impacts 17 colleges and universities across the state, including UNC Charlotte.

UNC Charlottes Chancellor Dr. Sharon Gaber didnt offer an opinion on the ruling to repeal the UNC Systems DEI policy. In a statement, she just emphasized that the policy is effective immediately and the university must show that its in compliance by Sept. 1.

By removing DEI, the Board of Governors is replacing it with a non-discrimination and equality policy.

Charlotte anti-violence advocates discuss solutions as November election approaches

Two board members from Charlotte, Joel Ford and Sonja Philipps Nichols, were the only no votes.

The new policy requires whats referred to as institutional neutrality on issues such as political controversies of the day, but the Board of Governors says students and professors are free to weigh in on current events.

However, staff and administrators must exercise restraint.

Its good for college students to encounter liberal ideas to become familiar with the most progressive thought that our society has to offer, its also good for our students to encounter conservative ideas, to appreciate traditional ideas and hear strong right-of-center arguments, and its vital that college administrators stay out of it all together, said Peter Hans, president of the UNC system during Thursdays board meeting.

Its unclear how UNC Charlottes funding for its DEI program will be impacted.

Just last week, UNC Chapel Hills Board of Trustees voted to move $2.3 million of diversity spending from state funds and instead put it toward public safety and policing.

Even if its not called diversity, equity and inclusion, we have a way to help people and make that path forward clearer for all people, said BOG Secretary Pear Burris-Floyd.

UNC Board of Governors President Peter Hans.

The Texas State Employees Union says UT Austin fired more than 60 staff members connected with its DEI programs, and the University of Florida also cut its DEI program.

Maria Cervania, a North Carolina lawmaker, urged the UNC Board of Governors to consider the positives of DEI programs.

Have an open mind to hear beyond the narrative and really hear how this has been benefitting people from people who are directly being affected, said Cervania.

UNC Charlottes Gaber released the following letter Thursday:

Dear Niner Nation, Today, the UNC System Board of Governors passed a new policy that affects diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at North Carolina public universities. The policy is written such that it is effective immediately, and institutions must certify their compliance on or before September 1. The System Office has indicated that it will provide additional guidance to help us establish appropriate next steps. It may be several weeks before we have more information to share, but we will continue to keep our campus updated. Dr. Sharon Gaber

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Storms forecasted for Myrtle Beach area this weekend. Will it be a washout? What to expect

Hot weather could bring thunderstorms this weekend into the Myrtle Beach area where thousands come to celebrate Black Bike Week and the Memorial Day holiday.

There is a 40% chance of scattered thunderstorms on Friday and Saturday, 30% on Sunday and 40% again on Monday, said meteorologist Mark Bacon with the National Weather Service in Wilmington, North Carolina. Despite the chance for storms, Bacon said, no day will be a washout.

Temperatures will be in the 80s, with the potential of hitting 90 degrees, which is what will cause storms, Bacon said. The chance of storms will decrease significantly during the night as the temperature cools off. Since the storms will be scattered, he doesnt expect it to storm all day.

Traffic could also be an issue this weekend as the Grand Strand this time of year gets flooded with people. Road closures and changes can be seen across municipalities.

Myrtle Beach will shut down several roads on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon for the Memorial Day parade. Farrow Parkway will be unavailable to traffic, with the eastbound lane being closed from Forbus Court to Johnson Avenue and the westbound lane being closed from Shine Avenue to Phillis Boulevard. Phillis Boulevard will be closed from Farrow Parkway to Johnson Avenue and Johnson Avenue will be closed from Phillis Boulevard to Farrow Parkway.

The northbound lane will also be closed along Ocean Boulevard from 29th Avenue North to U.S. 17 near Farrow Parkway from Friday through Monday. There will be entrances at 21st Avenue North, Mr. Joe White Avenue, Ninth Avenue North, Third Avenue South, Ninth Avenue South, 13th Avenue South, 19th Avenue South, 25th Avenue South and 29th Avenue South

In North Myrtle Beach, a lane will be blocked off on U.S. 17 around Atlantic Beach which is designed for Atlantic Beach Bike Fest traffic. The most eastern lane of U.S. 17 will be barricaded from 37th Avenue South to 25th Avenue South. Atlantic Beach will also create a chute from 31st Avenue South to 29th Avenue South for people to cruise.
Satellite imagery confirms an attack on a Russian strategic early warning radar site, which could point to a new and worrisome dimension to the conflict around Ukraine.

Satellite imagery confirms a Russian strategic early warning radar site in the southwestern end of the country was substantially damaged in a reported Ukrainian drone attack earlier this week. This looks to be a first-of-its-kind attack on a site linked to Russia's general strategic defense. As such, it points to a new and worrisome dimension to the conflict, especially when it comes to the potential use of nuclear weapons .

A satellite image taken on May 23 that The War Zone obtained from Planet Labs of the Armavir Radar Station in Russia's southwestern Krasnodar Krai shows significant debris around one of the site's two Voronezh-DM radar buildings. These are ultra-high-frequency (UHF) over-the-horizon (OTH) radars that are part of Russia's nuclear ballistic missile early warning system.

A satellite image of the taken on May 23. Significant damage to the southwest-facing Voronezh-DM early warning radar at the site and associated debris are clearly visible. PHOTO  2024 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION

What can be seen in the satellite image aligns with pictures taken from ground level that emerged on social media earlier today, which show severe damage to both structures housing the Voronezh-DMs at Armavir. There is also clear evidence of multiple hits on the radar buildings. It is worth noting that radar arrays are generally very sensitive and fragile systems, and even relatively limited damage can result in a "mission kill," rendering them inoperable for an extended period of time.

The date the Planet Labs image was taken also aligns with initial reports that the attacks on Armavir occurred sometime between May 22 and May 23.

At the time of writing, Ukrainian authorities do not appear to have publicly claimed responsibility for the attack on Armavir. There also do not look to be any official statements from the Russian government. Ukrainian forces have targeted multiple locations within Krasnodar Krai , which lies just across the Sea of Azov, in the past using kamikaze drones .

There has been some speculation that Ukrainian forces may have targeted Armavir over concerns about the site's ability to help provide advance warning about its strikes involving U.S.-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) short-range ballistic missiles.

Since receiving a new tranche of ATACMS in secret earlier this year , the Ukrainian armed forces have been using those weapons to good effect against Russian air bases, air defense nodes , and other targets . The latest batch of ATACMS are also longer-range versions than had previously been delivered to Ukraine's military, which have allowed them to hold more targets at risk .

However, experts and observers have pointed out that the Voronezh-DMs at Armavir are fixed in their fields of view, with the primary focus being areas to the southwest. As an example, in 2013, Russian authorities said that the site had detected what appeared to be a ballistic missile launch into the Mediterranean from Libya.

The northern edge of the coverage area of the two radars reportedly does cover the Crimean Peninsula, but there are questions about what the Voronezh-DM, as an OTH, can 'see' that close and that obliquely, especially if the targets in question are lower on the horizon. These radars are primarily designed to detect ballistic missile launches from much further away.

Regardless of Armavir's direct relevance to the conflict in Ukraine or the exact intended goals of the attack on the site, it has much broader ramifications. The two Voronezh-DMs at the facility are a key part of Russia's larger strategic early warning network and their loss, even temporarily, could only degrade the country's ability to detect incoming nuclear threats. There are also concerns about how this could impact the ability of Russia's overall strategic warning network to evaluate potential threats and eliminate false positives due to possible loss of overlapping coverage in certain areas.

Beyond that, it has been pointed out that the attack on Armavir could meet the conditions the Russian government laid out publicly in 2020 for actions that could trigger a nuclear retaliatory strike. Russia's early warning network is part of the country's broader nuclear deterrent posture.

"The conditions specifying the possibility of nuclear weapons use by the Russian Federation" include any "attack by [an] adversary against critical governmental or military sites of the Russian Federation, disruption of which would undermine nuclear forces response actions," according to the Basic Principles of State Policy of the Russian Federation on Nuclear Deterrence the Kremlin put out two years ago .

All of this follows the start of tactical nuclear drills by Russian forces in the country's Southern Military District, which borders Ukraine, on Tuesday. The Russian Ministry of Defense had first announced the drills were coming earlier this month and said they were "in response to provocative statements and threats by certain Western officials against the Russian Federation." This appeared to be a reference to French President Emmanuel Macron saying that he would not rule out sending troops to Ukraine in the future.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov2o08yvXxY

The tactical nuclear drills had already reignited discussions about the potential thresholds for Russia's potential use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine, something The War Zone has explored in detail previously .

This is also just the latest Ukrainian attack on Russian territory to point to vulnerabilities in the country's air defense network , even around highly-prized strategic assets.

It very much remains to be seen how exactly Russia will respond to the attack on Armavir, which could potentially involve new nuclear signaling to authorities in Ukraine, as well as the foreign benefactors. Whether this attack is a sign of the start of a broader campaign on the part of Ukrainian forces to target strategic military sites with limited direct involvement in the ongoing conflict and significant importance to Russia's early warning and nuclear deterrent postures is also unclear.

Whatever the case, the Armavir will have significant ramifications and could be an indication that spillover from the war inside Ukraine is taking on a newly concerning form.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
Int'l cultural industries fair opens in south China metropolis

Xinhua) 08:21, May 24, 2024

People visit the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

SHENZHEN, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) opened on Thursday in the southern Chinese metropolis of Shenzhen.

For the first time, the five-day event has set up an international cultural trade exhibition, with an exhibition area covering 20,000 square meters.

The main venue of the fair is at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center. It consists of eight pavilions focused on areas such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's cultural industry innovation, the integration of culture and tourism, gaming and e-sports, and Guochao, also known as Chinese trends or "China chic".

A special exhibition of "Cultural and Creative China" has been set up at the fair to showcase the latest achievements in promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of fine traditional Chinese culture.

According to the organizers, the 20th ICIF, held offline and online simultaneously, has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display.

More than 300 overseas exhibitors from 60 countries and regions are participating in the fair.

Established in 2004, the fair has become a leading cultural event in China and an important platform to assist the Chinese culture in going global.

Visitors look at exhibits from the Hangzhou branch of the National Archives of Publications and Culture during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

People watch a performance of Yueju opera during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

An exhibitor from Tianshui of Gansu Province shows the malatang, literally meaning a numbingly spicy hotpot, during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

A visitor selects creative products inspired by Chinese characters during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

People perform Yingge Dance, a Chinese folk dance, during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

People visit the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

An exhibitor introduces products to a visitor during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

Visitors pose for photos with tradtional opera headwear during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

People visit the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

Visitors view exhibits during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

A visitor tries a piece of traditional headdress during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Mao Siqian)

A visitor views exhibits related with Guochao, also known as Chinese trends or "China chic," during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

People experiences the beauty of China's Mogao Grottoes with VR device at a booth of Tecent inside a pavilion dedicated to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's cultural industry innovation, during the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

People visit the 20th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, May 23, 2024. The 20th ICIF opened here on Thursday. According to the organizers, the five-day event held offline and online simultaneously has attracted over 6,000 government entities, cultural organizations and enterprises, with more than 120,000 exhibits on display. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

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A visitor (R) tries remote parallel driving system at the on-site experience area for the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 23, 2024. The 7th Digital China Summit will take place in Fuzhou from May 24 to 25. The preview of its on-site experience area, covering an area of 56,000 square meters and consisting of five major parts, was opened at Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center on Thursday. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)

A visitor (R) tries digital VR devices at the on-site experience area for the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 23, 2024. The 7th Digital China Summit will take place in Fuzhou from May 24 to 25. The preview of its on-site experience area, covering an area of 56,000 square meters and consisting of five major parts, was opened at Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center on Thursday. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)

A visitor experiences motion-sensing VR game at the on-site experience area for the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 23, 2024. The 7th Digital China Summit will take place in Fuzhou from May 24 to 25. The preview of its on-site experience area, covering an area of 56,000 square meters and consisting of five major parts, was opened at Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center on Thursday. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

A robot practices Taichi at the on-site experience area for the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 23, 2024. The 7th Digital China Summit will take place in Fuzhou from May 24 to 25. The preview of its on-site experience area, covering an area of 56,000 square meters and consisting of five major parts, was opened at Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center on Thursday. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

Visitors watch the demonstration of a bionic robot at the on-site experience area for the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 23, 2024. The 7th Digital China Summit will take place in Fuzhou from May 24 to 25. The preview of its on-site experience area, covering an area of 56,000 square meters and consisting of five major parts, was opened at Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center on Thursday. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a scene during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

A visitor views a piece of glass equipped with 5G antenna at the hand-on experience area during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 24, 2024. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

People watch as an AI-powered robotic arm writes with a brush at the hand-on experience area during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 24, 2024. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

A bionic humanoid robot is pictured at the hand-on experience area during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 24, 2024. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)

The Digital China Development Report (2023) is released during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 24, 2024. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

People view a robot at the hand-on experience area during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 24, 2024. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)

People try devices powered by HarmonyOS, the operating system developed by Chinese telecom giant Huawei, at the hand-on experience area during the 7th Digital China Summit in Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, May 24, 2024. The summit themed on "unleashing the value of data and developing new quality productive forces" opened here on Friday. (Xinhua/Wei Peiquan)
PANAMA CITY  Abdullah Mubarak, a Rutherford High School graduating senior, has won a 2024 $2,500 National Merit Scholarship.

Mubarak, 17, is the only Bay County student to win the scholarship. Adullah obtained an unweighted GPA of 4.0 and a weighted GPA of 4.7.

"It feels good to be chosen out of very few people for this great achievement," Mubarak said. "Hopefully, I can use it to make a great contribution to the world and the community."

Abdullah Mubarak of Rutherford High School in Panama City is the only Bay County student to be named a 2024 National Merit Scholar.

In the fall of 2025, Abdullah will be attending Duke University. His major is undecided.

"There are a lot of interests I want to pursue," said Mubarak, who was born and raised in Panama City. "I have thought about exploring humanities, liberal arts, religious studies, politics, philosophy and history. ... But I want to take time in deciding what I want to do.

"The subjects I mentioned are very important in helping our condition and our welfare," Mubarak said. "With religion, I feel like there is a lot of spiritual crises. There is a lot of division in our community, which is why I want to go into politics as well. We need to bring people together and educate people on the beacon of knowledge."

Abdullah Mubarak will be attending Duke University in the fall, but he hasn't yet decided on a major. "There are a lot of interests I want to pursue."

Abdullah also touched on the struggles he dealt with during his time in grade school to become the student he is today. In ninth grade, Abdullah enrolled in the IB program at Rutherford High School to experience new things academically.

"I always enjoyed knowledge and education, but I wasn't serious about it in my early years," he said. "I wasn't doing my best in class, and I got distracted sometimes. My mother was an important person in my life, and she encouraged me to be a better student."

More Education: St. Joe Community Foundation announces winners of 'No Ordinary Joe' scholarships

Now a National Merit Scholar, Abdullah touched on what advice he would give others about getting to where he is now.

"Do what you're best at and do what you're passionate about," he said. "Find support and stick with your family. Do well academically, but balance that by having friends, and spend time with your family."

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Rutherford High School senior awarded National Merit Scholarship
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Following protests at Portland State University on Thursday night, the school shared that the chief of campus police was hospitalized and that several students were among those arrested.

According to PSU, during the protests, a group marched to the Richard & Maurine Neuberger Center and protesters chained themselves to the doors for a second time.

The chained protesters were asked to leave and declined, the school said. This is when both campus and Portland police responded to the scene.

Woman dead after late night Hazelwood shooting

There were seven total arrests, three of whom were confirmed by the school to be current students.

During the event, PSU president Ann Cudd said in a statement that physical force had to be used against the students and that at some point, chief of campus police Willie Halliburton had to be taken to the hospital after suffering a medical emergency. No other information about the emergency was given.

In her statement, Cudd also called on the protests to stop, saying it is not a campus atmosphere that can sustain any of us at Portland State.

Cudd added that she has been working to engage with protesters and meet with community members and student groups to come to an agreement on the demands made by the Associated Students of Portland State University.

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Marine scientist Sharon Gray lives on a catamaran off the Florida west coast. Even though her state's governor, Ron DeSantis, recently signed a controversial law that effectively wipes references to climate change out of the state's statutes, Gray deeply worries about global heating. As the cyclical La Nina weather pattern in the Pacific combines with rising sea surface temperatures (SST), Gray predicts a "devastating" hurricane will occur in summer 2024.

While La Nina is unavoidable, the planet's rising temperatures are thanks to human burning fossil fuels. From Gray's point-of-view, this makes it "tragic" that climate change is now a politically-charged issue.

"At its core, its basic physics," Gray said. Her employer the Rising Seas Institute  an organization that provides scientific education and advocacy to prepare for rising sea levels  tries to stay politically neutral precisely because climate change impacts most people equally. The organization's president and co-founder, oceanographer, John Englander, says that ice melts at 32 degrees whether youre a Republican or Democrat." Gray elaborates by pointing out that when climate change raises sea levels, the impact will not be limited to people living on the coasts.

"It has the potential to affect agriculture and freshwater supplies, disrupt supply chains and shipping routes, threaten critical assets and infrastructure, and [threaten] our national security," Gray said. "Hundreds of millions of people could be displaced  and they will all need somewhere to go. My advice to voters is to make climate change the top priority and research [their] candidates positions before going to the polls."

Gray is just one among many climate scientists who feel a growing sense of urgency as summer 2024 approaches. Earlier this month, the European Union's Copernicus Climate Service reported that rising heat caused the world's oceans to break temperature records every single day over the past year. 2023 overall was the hottest year on record, averaging temperatures 1.4 Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels. Nations that signed the 2015 Paris Agreement aimed to keep temperatures at 1.5 C lower than pre-industrial levels.

When it came time for the year's hottest season, summer 2023 brought with it suffocating wildfires, blistering heatwaves and billions of dollars in costly weather disasters. In summer 2024, conditions are expected to get even worse, although La Nina may offset this somewhat with its cooling effect.

"It may likely not be as hot as 2023  because that was an El Nino event, which has now died down," said Imperial College London glaciology professor Martin Siegert. Yet despite this encouraging news, summer 2024 is still likely to be filled with natural disasters as a result of climate change.

"However, ocean surfaces are still warm," Siegert added. "And I expect heat waves and flash flooding from downpours over the summer. With weather, it is difficult to be precise, but the general trend will be for heat and increased sudden rainfall."

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Kevin Trenberth, a distinguished scholar at the National Center for Atmospheric Research, who has published more than 600 articles on climatology, also told Salon that he believes in many respects, summer 2024 will be "more of the same."

"Wildfires are already breaking out in Canada," Trenberth said. "But which region will be most favored for drought and wildfire is yet to be determined. El Nino is about over: not quite yet. Under La Nina, the dry spots are quite different." He added that the "biggest risk is probably a very active hurricane season in the Atlantic. DeSantis and Florida should watch out, since they do not plan for such!"

In fact, on Thursday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said on Thursday there's an 85% chance that this year's hurricane season will be an above-normal season, with an estimated 17 to 25 named tropical storms and 4 to 7 major hurricanes.

"Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail," Federal Emergency Management Agency deputy administrator Erik A. Hooks said in a statement. "Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow."

As bleak as the prospects are for humanity in summer 2024, it's likely only going to get worse after the current El-Nino-La-Nina cycle runs its course.

"The weather over the next year will be very different than over the past two years," Trenberth said. "The patterns of where the flooding occurs  the droughts, the wildfires, the heatwaves  is yet to be set. Watch out!"

Trenberth also expressed alarm about the continued erosion of sea ice in the Antarctic and Arctic. "Thawing permafrost is a worry in Alaska and elsewhere," Trenberth said. "That destabilizes many buildings, roads and infrastructure, but each bit is local and getting a complete picture is hard."

Gray said that the upcoming summer will bring with it increased melting of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, which will contribute to global sea level rise "with profound implications for coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide." As sea levels rise, a system of ocean currents that controls weather patterns all over the world known as AMOC (the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation) will destabilize.

"The slowing of these currents can alter weather patterns and even the carbon cycle (by reducing the oceans capacity to sequester [carbon dioxide]), as well as amplify climate feedback loops," Gray said. She also raised alarm about a recent study in the journal PNAS that shows the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica is in danger of collapsing as warm water from the ocean causes it to melt from underneath.

"The glacier itself holds ~2 feet of sea level rise, but these events never occur in a vacuum, and almost always lead to domino effects," Gray explained.

Englander added to that by saying, "Thwaites is the largest and most vulnerable, so is often the focus. But it is associated with five other glaciers, sometimes referred to as the 'Pine Island Glaciers.' By itself Thwaites is roughly capable of causing a foot and a half of global sea level rise. But the group would cause roughly 10 feet. It is sometimes referred to as a 'domino effect' but more accurately the same warming that affects Thwaites affects them all. Indeed, they are all melting, and accelerating in their speed to the ocean. Often we say they are destabilizing."

In the meantime, the "greatest immediate concern" is the melting polar sea ice, according to Siegert.

"It acts to cool the planet by reflecting sunlight and when not present, the sunlight is absorbed by the sea, leading to further heating," Siegert said. "Sea ice retreat since the early 1970s has led to Arctic heating at four times the rate of the rest of the planet, and in Antarctica two times. The polar regions seem to be accelerating warming rather than preventing it."

Yet even though Siegert described the climate crisis as "getting worse," he also proposed a solution that could help humanity make a long stride toward solving the ongoing existential problem.

"One way forward may be to consider emitting greenhouse gases as a 'pollution' that leads to extreme events and damages to lives and livelihoods," Siegert said. "In that case, it may be that the law can protect us from the emitters  holding them to account when known to willingly pollute the planet  and forcing damages to be paid for. Climate litigation thus would place a liability on companies and countries, and the way to reduce the risk would be via decarbonizing. The law exists to protect us, and our future."

Gray observes that the scientific community is currently debating how to raise awareness and communicate the science in ways that inspire action. The very fact that this debate is occurring is itself promising, as the gamut of approaches suggested all have the potential to catalyze meaningful change.

"Many believe that the message needs to remain positive so that people arent terrified into paralysis," Gray said. "Personally, I dont think we should be making that decision for others. I believe our job is to honestly communicate the realities of the challenges were facing and trust people to handle the message."

She added, "The media has a large role to play in this, too. Accurate and consistent reporting is key."
New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R) slammed former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) and California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) Thursday.

While at the the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institutes Reagan Institute Summit on Education (RISE) Thursday, Sununu noted mostly friendly relations among state governors but said in his eight years in his current role theres really only been two, maybe a third, but two real governors that really nobody liked. He was then pressed on who those governors were.

Andrew Cuomo, Sununu responded. Complete jacka, no one likes him. And I gotta  and I gotta be honest, I  no one cares for Gavin. Gavins just a prick.

Sununu said even Democrats dislike Newsom, but they wont tell you out loud. However, he also noted positive relationships with Democratic governors like Oregons Tina Kotek and New Jerseys Phil Murphy.

There is absolutely nothing Tina and I probably agree with politically, but shes a wonderful person, Sununu said. I think shes  shes really great I call her my favorite West Coast governor. You know, Phil Murphy in New Jersey, right? Phil Murphy and I get along great, we really do. Hes got this amazing sense of humor.

Sununu, who has often been a critic of former President Trump and supported former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley in the GOP presidential primaries before she dropped out, said in March that he would support the former president as his partys nominee.

Im going to support the ticket. Im going to support Donald Trump, but my focus is definitely going to be here in the state, he said.

Sununu, however, did not take back his criticism of Trump that included calling him a loser and going after his age.

Look, I dont take any of that back, to be sure, Sununu said. But again, understand this is an alternative. I mean, the alternative is [President Biden.] And I think where folks are seeing a lack of management, a lack of understanding whats happening with immigration, a lack of fiscal responsibility.

In an emailed statement to The Hill, Cuomo spokesperson Rich Azzopardi said: Its nice to see they feel the same way about each other.

The Hill has reached out to Cuomo and Newsom.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu slammed Gavin Newsom and Andrew Cuomo on Thursday saying many of the governors get along with one another but no one really cared for the two Democrats.

During a fireside chat at the Reagan Institute Summit on Education in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Sununu was asked by moderator Fred Ryan who were the governors no one really cared for. And Sununu did not mince his words.

"I've got to be honest, no one cares for Gavin," Sununu said. "Gavin's just a prick  excuse me  he just is.

He just is. It's really disappointing, Sununu said of Newsom. All of us got along for a while, but even the Democrats  they won't tell you out loud  but behind closed doors they're like 'oh God, look who's coming.'''

Newsom's office declined to comment on Sununus remarks.

Sununu also had choice words for Cuomo, who resigned as New York governor in 2021 after facing multiple sexual harassment allegations from women who worked for the state over the course of an eight-year period.

"Yeah, Andrew Cuomo  complete jacka-s  no one likes him," Sununu replied.

Cuomo spokesperson Rich Azzopardi said on Friday in response to Sununu that "it's nice to see they both feel the same way about each other."

Attacks toward the Democratic California governor arent new. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Newsom have long had an ongoing rivalry where the two debated live on Fox News in November. Newsom isnt shy about slamming other governors either. In June, Newsom called DeSantis a small pathetic man.

Even on the Democratic side, Newsom dealt with a soft jab from Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker in February. Pritzker, bragging about Illinois balanced budget, said California, for example, has a $38 billion deficit to contend with.

Sununu, who has decided not to serve a fifth term as governor, and Newsom were both floated as names for the 2024 presidential ticket but ultimately did not run. Sununu backed former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Newsom said he was looking forward to getting [Biden] reelected."

Christopher Cadelago contributed to this report.
The Supreme Court is seen at sunset in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019. The Supreme Court has ruled that a Republican-drawn congressional district map was not unconstitutional. A lower court had found the congressional district map unconstitutional, declaring it racial gerrymandering. | J. Scott Applewhite

The Supreme Court has ruled that a Republican-drawn congressional district map was not unconstitutional. A lower court said the map was unconstitutional, declaring it racial gerrymandering. The decision issued Thursday reverses the lower courts ruling.

The court ruled 6-3. Justice Samuel Alito penned the decision for the majority and Justice Elena Kagan wrote the dissent.

After the Republican-majority state legislature drew new congressional district lines following the 2020 U.S. Census, the South Carolina chapter of the NAACP challenged the map. A Black South Carolina voter named Taiwan Scott, along with the state NAACP chapter, said the state used racial data and moved thousands of Black voters out of the district.

The redistricting had moved almost two-thirds of Black voters in Charleston County from 1st District to 6th District, wrote Amy Howe for SCOTUSblog.

In January 2023, a federal court had ordered the state to draw new congressional district maps by the end of March. The ruling stated GOP leaders had moved Black voters from the 1st District into the 6th District. The judges said in drawing the map, race was used unconstitutionally in the redistricting.

The three-judge panel relied on a case known as Cooper v. Harris. It dealt with the way North Carolina did redistricting. There the court determined the redistricting plan was unconstitutional because race motivated the plan and so it violated the Equal Protection Clause.

About the courts ruling that South Carolinas map was drawn unlawfully on discriminatory grounds, Alito said that court did not offer any direct evidence to support that conclusion, and indeed the direct evidence that is in the record.

Alito said the staffer who drew the maps relied on political data from the 2020 presidential election along with traditional districting criteria and input from various lawmakers.

The circumstantial evidence falls far short of showing that race, not partisan preferences, drove the districting process, and none of the expert reports offered by the challengers provides any significant support for their position, said Alito.

In writing the dissent, Kagan said, The majority is intent on changing the usual rules when it comes to addressing racial-gerrymandering claims.

The proper response to this case is not to throw up novel roadblocks enabling South Carolina to continue dividing citizens along racial lines, said Kagan. It is to respect the plausible  no, the more than plausible  findings of the District Court that the state engaged in race-based districting.

In the electoral sphere especially, where ugly patterns of pervasive racial discrimination have so long governed, we should demand better  of ourselves, of our political representatives and most of all this court, said Kagan.

Justice Clarence Thomas filed an opinion concurring in part with the majority opinion and said the courts shouldnt hear these cases.

In my view, the court has no power to decide these types of claims, wrote Thomas. Drawing political districts is a task for politicians, not federal judges. There are no judicially manageable standards for resolving claims about districting, and, regardless, the Constitution commits those issues exclusively to the political branches.

Previously, the court had ruled that courts cant weigh in on partisan gerrymandering  the opinion was split on ideological lines. Both Alito and Thomas referenced this case in their rulings.

Partisan gerrymandering claims present political questions beyond the reach of the federals, said Chief Justice John Roberts in the 5-4 majority opinion issued in 2019. Federal judges have no license to reallocate political power between the two major political parties, with no plausible grant of authority in the Constitution, and no legal standards to limit and direct their decisions.

Kagan also cited it and wrote, The plain fact is, politicians dont like admitting to partisan gerrymanders: They often deny them as aggressively as they draw them. That is because excessive partisanship in districting is  and is thought by voters to be  incompatible with democratic principles.

We are deeply disappointed in the Supreme Courts decision to allow South Carolinas proposed congressional map to stand for yet another election after a unanimous federal three-judge panel recognized the racial discrimination in that map and ordered that a remedial map be used in upcoming elections beginning this year, said Scott, a plaintiff in the case.

Janette McCarthy-Wallace, NAACP chief general counsel, issued a statement after the ruling calling it a severe blow to the ideals of democracy.

While the court may have faltered in its duty to safeguard democracy, the collective power of the Black vote stands resolute  an unwavering force that transcends legal rulings and political maneuvering, said McCarthy-Wallace. The NAACP, in the face of this legal setback, stands in unwavering solidarity with its counterparts fighting legal battles for the protection and expansion of Black voting rights.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  In an emotional gathering, the FDNYs 28th Second Chance Ceremony brought together eight survivors with the rescuers who saved their lives.

Among them was 14-year-old Dylan Garcia, who was reunited with the firefighters and EMTs who resuscitated him after he went into cardiac arrest during a gym class at St. Thomas High School in Queens last year.

I respect them a lot, and I thank them very much because, without them, I dont think Id be here, said Dylan Garcia.

In January 2023, when he was 12 years old, Dylan collapsed face-first.

More Brooklyn News

I was in gym class, and I dont know what really happened. I cant remember muchI saw I was running apparently, and I think I fell, and I fell on my face, Garcia recalled.

Firefighters performed CPR and used a defibrillator to restart Garcias heart. Paramedics then rushed him to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with myocarditis from a COVID-19 infection. Dylan has since made a full recovery.

The Second Chance Ceremony recognizes the life-saving impact of the FDNYs emergency medical services and highlights the importance of their rapid response and skilled medical interventions in critical situations.

To see children, its worse because its not what we expect. We dont ever want to have to do this, said Fire Chief Ricardo Otero.

More Local News

Yet saving Garcias life filled Otero with immense pride.

Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh praised the skill, training and compassion of FDNYs first responders, who she called the lifeline of the communities they serve.

I hope this day reinvigorates you and reinforces how vital you are to the city, Kavanagh told the rescuers.

As the ceremony served as an emotional reminder of the harrowing calls FDNY faces daily, Garcia now lives his life with a newfound appreciation since his near-death experience. Ive been acting a little more thankful, Garcia said.

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WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  One of the men accused of being involved in shooting at an officer in D.C. was extradited from Prince Georges County, Md. on Thursday.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said that 21-year-old William Walker of Upper Marlboro, Md. was extradited to the District on May 23 pursuant to a D.C. Superior Court arrest warrant. He was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon (gun).

MPD said that another suspect, a 21-year-old man from Northwest, D.C. was still in custody in Prince Georges County. On Tuesday, the Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said that it had arrested 21-year-old Rasheed Thorne for the incident.

MPD said that he was wanted in D.C. for assault with a dangerous weapon.

Men wanted for shooting at DC police officer charged with crimes in Prince Georges County

According to MPD, an off-duty captain was driving to work on Monday when he saw a car driving erratically. The car stopped, and one of the people inside got out before firing at the captains car.

The captain drove to the Fourth District Station for help and was taken to a hospital. He was released the same day after he was treated.

MPD said its captain got a partial license plate from the incident  that information was relayed to the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), which located the vehicle shortly afterward.

MPD followed the car to Landover, where the car crashed. PGPD took Walker and Thorne into custody after the crash.

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NANJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Cao Guangjing, former vice governor of central China's Hubei Province, has been sentenced to life in prison on charges of accepting bribes and divulging inside information.

The sentence was announced by a court in the city of Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, on Friday.

The court found that between 2004 and 2022, Cao had taken undue advantage of his various posts, including those as a senior executive of the China Three Gorges Corporation and as the vice governor of Hubei, to provide help for others in matters such as business operation, project contracting, and project development. In return, he accepted over 216 million yuan (about 30.4 million U.S. dollars) in cash and gifts.

Also, in 2021, when Cao served as Hebei vice governor and led the restructuring of a listed company, he disclosed inside information to others, enabling them to profit from buying and selling the company's stocks, gaining over 10 million yuan, according to the court.

The court sentenced Cao to life imprisonment and ruled that he would also be deprived of political rights for life, and all of his personal property would be confiscated. All his illegal gains would be recovered and turned over to the state treasury.

The court said Cao had voluntarily turned himself in, showed remorse, and had been cooperative in returning the illegal gains, which had been recovered in full. These facts were taken into consideration when handing down the sentence. 
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A man suspected of exposing himself to multiple women in the unincorporated area of Mount Helix was arrested on Tuesday, authorities said.

John Jeffrey Lynn was booked on suspicion of indecent exposure at San Diego Central Jail, Lt. Michael Gonzales with the San Diego County Sheriffs Department said in a news release Thursday. He posted $10,000 bail and was released from jail on Wednesday.

Between April 28 and May 21 around 7 p.m., multiple women reported seeing a man wearing a hat, sunglasses and a hoodie to cover his face in an olive-green Subaru Outback with a covered license plate in the areas of Mt. Helix Drive and Mt. Helix Park, according to authorities.

San Diegos first cheese wheel pasta bar opens in Little Italy

On Tuesday around the same time in the evening, deputies patrolling near Grosalia Avenue and Pandora Drive noticed the suspect driving an SUV and pulling up alongside a woman who was walking in the area, per law enforcement. The woman told deputies the driver exposed himself and drove off.

The driver of the vehicle was arrested shortly after.

Authorities are asking for other possible victims to come forward and speak with Detective Nicholas Gaspar at 619-660-7090 or send an email at nicholas.gaspar@sdsheriff.org.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Pro-Palestinian protests have intensified at Oxford University this week. Now swastikas have been found in a college toilets - Isabel Infantes/Reuters

Swastika graffiti has been found in lavatories at an Oxford University college in the latest incident of anti-Semitism at the university.

Two of the symbols were reportedly found in the unisex lavatories at Regents Park College by a member of staff on Tuesday morning and were removed.

The college condemned the act as completely unacceptable.

The incident comes as pro-Palestinian protests at the university intensified this week.

Seventeen activists were arrested by police after occupying an administrative office on Wellington Square on Thursday. All 17 have been released on conditional bail.

An encampment is still in place outside the Pitt Rivers Museum more than two weeks after it was established.

A group of activists have also set up camp outside Radcliffe Camera, the university library.

Oxford students have raised concerns over anti-Semitism on campus since the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel on Oct 7.

Earlier this month, students sent a letter to the universitys vice-chancellor detailing 70 incidents on campus.

Following the discovery of the swastika symbols on Tuesday, Dr Lynn Robson, the dean and safeguarding lead at Regents Park College, sent an email stating that anti-Semitic graffiti had been found.

Students protest in support of Palestinians in Gaza at Oxford University - Isabel Infantes/Reuters

In the email, which was reported by The Times, she said: We do not tolerate any instances of abuse, offensive behaviour, open or covert hostility, directed at others on the grounds of race, religion or belief.

But Jewish students at the university have criticised the college for not doing more to find the perpetrators.

Harry Hatwell, 26, a student at St Johns, told The Times: Their response reeks of, This happened, but lets all move on.

The college hasnt asked, If you know who it was, come forward.

The goal is for everything to just go on as normal while the college can reiterate, Were still inclusive. And yet the underlying issue isnt dealt with.

Another student, from Regents Park College, told the newspaper: Its taken a massive toll  many fellow Jewish and Israeli students are struggling academically as a result of the atmosphere.

In response to the criticism, the college said it would be irresponsible to give details of its investigation in public.

In a statement, the personal assistant to the principal of the college said: The college has made it clear that it takes this incident extremely seriously and that it is completely unacceptable.

It is a distortion of our statement to suggest otherwise. We encourage those who can assist us in identifying those responsible to do so, and it would be irresponsible of us to set out in public investigatory steps being taken.

We are actively supporting our students, and will continue to do all we can, including engagement with the statutory authorities, to ensure that all our students feel safe within our college community.

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Syrian Kurdish authorities hand over a British woman and 3 children linked to IS to a UK delegation

This is a locator map for Syria with its capital, Damascus. (AP Photo)

QAMISHLI, Syria (AP)  A British woman and three children linked to the militant Islamic State group in Syria were handed over to a U.K. delegation that visited the region this week, Syrian Kurdish-led authorities said Friday.

The handover, which took place on Wednesday, is the latest in a push to repatriate people from al-Hol and Roj camps in northeastern Syria that house tens of thousands, mostly wives and children of IS militants but also supporters of the extremist group.

The Kurdish authorities did not release the names of the four, saying only they were held at Roj camp before the handover.

According to a statement, a delegation led by Britains Special Representative for Syria Ann Snow visited northeastern Syria, where they discussed with the Kurdish authorities the ongoing threat that IS still poses, five years after the extremists lost the last sliver of land they once controlled in large parts of Iraq and Syria.

Elham Ahmad, the co-chair for foreign relations in the regional Syrian Kurdish administration, said radical solutions should be found for the problem of terrorism.

Thousands of IS members and suspects held in jails in northeast Syria should face justice, she added.

In 2014, IS declared a caliphate in large parts of Iraq and Syria and attracted tens of thousands of supporters from around the world. The extremists were defeated by a U.S.-led coalition in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria in 2019.

Tens of thousands of people linked to the group were taken to al-Hol camp, close to the Iraqi border.

Over the past five years about 30,000 people, mostly Iraqis and Syrians, have left al-Hol camp and been repatriated. More than 2,000 are also held in Roj camp.

Earlier this month, the United States said it repatriated 11 of its citizens from al-Hol and Roj camps, the largest group to date that Washington has taken out of the two sprawling camps.

Earlier in May, more than 200 Syrians were taken from al-Hol to their hometowns in Syrias eastern province that borders Iraq.
For a program designed to decrease wait times at the border, NEXUS is notorious for long waits of its own. The Department of Homeland Security currently estimates that it takes 12-14 months for applications to be processed. But if youre having trouble setting up an appointment for an interview, you could be in luck.

Customs and Border Protection, along with the Canadian Border Services Agency, announced a three-day NEXUS enrollment event in Blaine, at the Trusted Traveler Enrollment Center. Applicants who have been conditionally approved for the program will be able to schedule an interview during the event.

We look forward to completing a significant number of enrollments over this jam-packed three-day event, Brian Humphrey, the director of field operations at CBPs Seattle site, said in a news release.

Theres currently has a backlog of NEXUS applications, Humphrey stated in the news release, but the event will help CBP chip away at them.

The event runs from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 4 through Thursday, June 6. Interviews are available by appointment only.

How to apply for NEXUS

NEXUS, a Trusted Traveler Program run by the U.S. and Canada, gives members access to an expedited crossing process at the border, including designated NEXUS lanes so you dont have to wait in long lines. The program also gives you access to TSA PreCheck.

You can apply on the Department of Homeland Security website. The application costs $50.
A targeted strategy to reduce gun violence in parts of Detroit with the city's highest rates of violence will kick into gear again this summer  beginning Memorial Day  but this year's effort also will expand to the city's parks.

The One Detroit partnership will offer a three-pronged approach of enforcement, prevention and reentry. Its Summer Surge initiative again will focus on the 8th Precinct on the city's west side and the 9th Precinct on the city's east side, but also expand into the city's parks, U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison announced Thursday.

The announcement came just a day after Detroit police said a 16-year-old boy was fatally shot in the 9th Precinct just before 4 p.m. Wednesday in the area of Bedford and the Interstate 94 service drive. Earlier this month, a 17-year-old Detroiter was charged in connection with the nonfatal shootings of four people at Stein Park.

Ison said children in Detroit should be able to go to their parks and feel safe and protected. She said the Summer Surge effort strives to make it a reality, not a dream, for Detroiters to be safe in their community.

U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison.

The One Detroit initiative, formed two years ago, is a coalition of community and law enforcement partners working to reduce violent crime through various initiatives, such as this summer effort and youth violence prevention, including programs in schools.

During the Summer Surge initiative, which will run through Labor Day, the most violent individuals arrested in the 8th and 9th precincts and city parks will be prosecuted in federal court when possible, including violent felons arrested for illegally possessing firearms, those arrested with fully automatic firearms and firearms with obliterated serial numbers, Ison said.

She said anyone who commits an armed carjacking or robbery of a business in the targeted areas will be prosecuted federally as will any individual with a meaningful connection to the targeted areas who commits this type of crime elsewhere in the city.

Last year, the effort from June 1 to Aug. 31 brought declines in violent crime of about 19% in the 8th Precinct and about 11% in the 9th Precinct compared with the same time period the prior year, according to Detroit police statistics in a prior Free Press article.

Earlier this year, law enforcement officials and community leaders announced Detroit recorded 252 homicides in 2023  the city's fewest since 1966. While Ison said Thursday that crime is down, there is more to do.

U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison, center, speaks during a news conference May 23, 2024 at her office in downtown Detroit about the summer enforcement initiative in two city precincts and city parks from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

In an effort to deter violence and illegal gun possession, Ison said last week that more than 350 letters were sent to people on probation, parole or supervised release in the targeted areas warning of them of the enforcement strategy and inviting them to participate in a Peacenic in their community.

Returning citizens, people returning to society after being incarcerated, who live in hot spot areas also are invited to participate in community roundtables with others who have successfully transitioned into society and service providers that could help them.

Two Peacenics, which are gatherings for the 8th and 9th Precinct communities and law enforcement, are planned this summer. They also feature job training, literacy programs, mental health and medical screenings, utility assistance, educational and vocational opportunities, a boutique where residents can shop for gently used clothing and more.

More than 70 vendors are expected this year. Last year, more than 4,800 people attended both Peacenic events, Ison said.

The 9th Precinct Peacenic will be 3-7 p.m. June 15 at the Hellmann Recreation Center, 19601 Brock St. (rain date June 23) and the 8th Precinct Peacenic will be 3-7 p.m. June 29 at O'Hair Park, 20253 Stahelin St. (rain date June 30).

Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison said the city again will deploy public works to clear neighborhoods of illegal dumping in preparation for the Peacenic events.

Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter.

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Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Effort to reduce gun violence set for summer in parts of Detroit, city parks
Snub-nosed monkeys are pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

WEIXI COUNTY, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The black-and-white snub-nosed monkey, also known as the Yunnan golden hair monkey, is a national first-class protected animal of China. The species is also on the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

A snub-nosed monkey is pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey is pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey is pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey is pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey is pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey and its baby are pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey eats at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

A snub-nosed monkey baby is pictured at Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)
RICHLANDS, VA (WVNS)  A Tazewell County man was charged with multiple felonies and a misdemeanor after a hit-and-run in the Richlands area of Tazewell County.

Brandon Osborne, of Richlands, Virginia, was charged on Thursday, May 23, 2024, with one count of Felony Failure to Render Aid After an Accident with Injury, one count of Felony Failure to Contact Law Enforcement After an Accident with Injury, and one Misdemeanor Count of Driving Under the Influence.

Bluefield West Virginia Police Department releases bench warrant list

According to the Richlands Police Department, Richlands Fire and Rescue Unit 555 found a woman laying in the road on Front Street between the Blue Moon Consignment Shop and the Innovated Worship Center around 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

It was discovered that the woman received injuries from a hit-and-run, and was helped by Richlands Fire and Rescue while members of law enforcement responded to the scene. The investigation revealed that the woman was hit by a mid-sized orange pickup truck, which then fled the scene.

The Richlands Police Department followed a tip that they received on Thursday, May 23, 2024, that helped investigators find Osborne, as well as the truck that was involved in the incident.

Fayette County man sentenced for gun charge

The victim of this senseless and preventable tragedy is still in critical condition at a regional trauma center. We ask that the greater Richlands community continue to lift her and her family up in prayer. I would like to thank the Tazewell County Sheriffs Office, Bluefield Police Department, Virginia State Police, and the Commonwealths Attorney Office for all of their support and hard work on this case. Ron Holt | Chief of Police

Members of the Richlands Police Department, the Tazewell County Sheriffs Office, the Virginia State Police, and the Bluefield Police Department worked to gather evidence to charge Osborne with multiple felonies and one misdemeanor.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
CLEVELAND (WJW)  The FOX 8 I-TEAM has found another City of Cleveland official disciplined over the use of a take-home car.

Records show Cleveland Hopkins Airport Interim Assistant Commissioner Patrick Ruedisueli was given a one-day suspension.

Cleveland official faces discipline for crashing city car with kids on board

That marks the latest fallout tied to kids in city cars.

The Ruedisueli discipline grew out of a photo of car seats in the back of a city vehicle assigned to him.

That came to light just after Assistant Safety Director Jakimah Dye crashed with kids in a city car. And, Safety Director Karrie Howard resigned after admitting to the I-TEAM that he had driven with a child in a city car.

The policy says kids are not allowed in city vehicles.

Records indicate Ruedisueli told investigators he had the car seats in the vehicle only for emergency purposes since he has two small children. And, he said he could be called at any time for an emergency. He also said he took out the car seats after being reminded of the policy.

However, his disciplinary letter says, You are held to a high standard of performance and behavior that align with the City of Cleveland and Department of Port Controls Code of Conduct, values and expectations.

Meantime, we keep checking for the results of an overall review of the use of City take-home cars.

In February, we asked the mayor: Whos been watching to make sure that all City employees are following the rules with city cars, and that they even have insurance?

Cedar Point, CLE Aquarium & more: Free, discounted admission for military on Memorial Day

On February 29, Mayor Justin Bibb said: We had a briefing with our cabinet on this on Tuesday, and they are doing a thorough, comprehensive review to make sure every city employee is compliant and hold them accountable if theyre not.

But, the city has not announced any findings or new action from that review, and we have not been given any indication when to expect anything.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Teaneck civil rights activist Lacey receives award from Museum of the City of New York

TEANECK  Resident and civil rights activist Theodora Smiley Lacey has received the Clara Lemlich Award from The Museum of the City of New York.

The award celebrates the lives of women with decades of social activism who have enabled "real and lasting world change."

Lacey, 92, has been at the center of the civil rights movement almost from its beginning.

Story continues below photo gallery

Her father called Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to serve as pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, as president of the church's board of directors.

Her mother was friends with Rosa Parks, whose refusal to sit in the back of a public bus touched off the 1955-56 Montgomery bus strike under King's supervision.

Theodora Smiley Lacey, a civil rights activist who worked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., speak at the event. The Center for Food Action held a Day of Service Snack Pack Event on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at Community Baptist Church in Englewood, N.J. on Monday Jan. 16, 2023. Volunteers put together snack in bags which will be distributed to the needy.

Lacey served as a driver and fundraiser during that boycott, where she met her future husband, Archie Lacey. They married in 1956, and King officiated at the baptism for two of the couple's four children before they moved to Teaneck.

As residents, the couple became involved in fair housing reforms, and were the driving force behind the historic May 1964 vote to desegregate its schools, the first in the nation.

The 60th anniversary of the desegregation vote was celebrated May 13.

Teaneck resident and civic activist Theodora Lacey receives the Clara Lemlich Award from the Museum of the City of New York for her decades of civic activism on racial and social injustice.

Lacey retired in 2007 after 37 years as a science teacher with the Teaneck School District. For her civic involvement, the school district renamed its kindergarten building in her honor in 2020.

The award was presented by Jeremy Lentz, director of special projects for The Puffin Foundation. The award is named for Clara Lemlich Shavelson, who led the "Uprising of the 20,000" New York shirtwaist factory workers' strike for better working conditions in 1909.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Longtime Teaneck civil rights activist Lacey receives award
Ted Cruz Has Been Acting Bipartisan To Win Reelection, But Sometimes It's So Hard

WASHINGTON  Something strange is happening with Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) lately. Hes been presenting an unusually reasonable, more moderate version of himself.

In a CNN interview late Wednesday, Cruz suggested hes taken the high road in response to Donald Trump accusing his father of assassinating President John F. Kennedy. And in response to Trump lying about defeating him in Iowa in the 2016 GOP presidential primary. And in response to Trump smearing his wife.

When he became president, I had a choice to make. I could be pissed, said the Texas senator. But if I was going to do that? Hed just been elected president. I got a job. I got a job to represent 30 million Texans. And frankly, if I was going to let my hurt feelings make me say, Im not going to work with you? I needed to be prepared to resign my job and go home.

I value civility in politics, he added. I think we should treat each other with respect, even if we disagree with each other.

Days earlier, Cruz, who is the top Republican on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, celebrated his role in the bipartisan passage of a bipartisan law that authorizes bipartisan funding for the Federal Aviation Administration. It was a very bipartisan win.

I am immensely proud that our bipartisan FAA reauthorization, which received overwhelming support from lawmakers in both parties, is now law, the Texas senator said in a statement.

Even skimming the press releases on Cruzs Senate website this year, theres been a noticeable uptick in the use of the word bipartisan in his statements lately. And earlier this week, he posted a polished video and message on social media hailing Texans for their ability to come together after a natural disaster.

What is happening here? This conciliatory version of Cruz is quite a contrast to that other guy typically roaming the halls of the Senate: a rabid partisan known for his displays of performativeoutrage for the cameras, the architect of the 2013 government shutdown that failed to defund Obamacare and the first U.S. senator to stand up to object to certifying President Joe Bidens 2020 election victory.

We are witnessing normal Ted Cruz rebrand himself as election-year Ted Cruz, a more palatable version of himself designed to appeal to more voters as he takes on a moderate Democrat in November  after having barely won reelection last time.

I do say, I love bipartisanship and civility when it is five months before the November election, when I am up for reelection. Chip Somodevilla via Getty Images

Cruz is currently leading in the polls against his challenger, Rep. Colin Allred (D-Texas). But hes not taking anything for granted after what happened in 2018, when former Rep. Beto ORourke (D-Texas) took on Cruz and shocked the nation by nearly defeating him in this deep-red state.

Cruzs metamorphosis has been underway for weeks. I actually have very good relationships with many of my colleagues across the aisle, he boasted to The Texas Tribune last month, citing his work with Democratic Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, Cory Booker and Amy Klobuchar. Ive worked with all three of them, and all three are friends.

The familiar Ted Cruz is still with us, though. On Wednesday, he interrupted and shouted over Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) so much during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing that she ultimately gave up and adjourned the hearing early.

During this hearing, Cruz and other Republicans were grilling one of Bidens federal court nominees, Sarah Netburn, over her decision as a New York magistrate judge to approve the transfer of a transgender inmate to a female prison.

This inmate, who was born biologically male but transitioned into a female, had been convicted decades earlier of raping two minors and distributing child porn. Netburn, who has been a magistrate judge for 12 years, said she approved the transfer of this inmate to a female prison based on the recommendations of three prison wardens and a Federal Bureau of Prisons medical provider, all of whom supported the transfer and cited her serious medical needs.

As soon as it was his turn to ask questions, Cruz accused Netburn of being a political hack.

In your court, what matters more: the rights of individuals or your political ideology? he began.

I apply the law to the facts, replied Netburn. My political ideology doesnt matter at all.

OK, so I dont believe you, Cruz continued. I think this case demonstrates that you are willing to subjugate the rights of individuals to your political ideologies.

It wasnt long before Cruz was raising his voice, calling Netburn a radical, and then when his time ran out, he began shouting at Butler for not letting him keep questioning Netburn. He and Sen. John Kennedy (R-La) began accusing Butler of contradicting herself. There was no evidence that she did.

Senators, I gave both of you more time to finish your line of questioning, said Butler, as Cruz and Kennedy kept talking over her. I allowed the witness to finish her  I allowed the witness to finish  I allowed the witness to finish her response.

Ultimately, after Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) chided Cruz and Kennedy for going off time and time and time again in these hearings, and after Cruz baselessly accused Democrats of engaging in a cover-up, Butler said that it was another senators turn to talk and that she would end the hearing if Cruz and Kennedy didnt stop disregarding her control of the proceedings.

You want to adjourn? Go ahead. You can do that! sniped Cruz, still talking over Butler as she tried to let another senator speak.

Shortly after, before all the other senators got to ask questions, Butler adjourned.

Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), who was filling in Wednesday as the chair of a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, adjourned the hearing early after Republicans, including Ted Cruz, wouldn't stop interrupting and talking over her. Andrew Harnik via Getty Images

The Ted Cruz who wrecked the hearing is the same one who, on a recent afternoon, held court with reporters in front of the Senate chamber, answering their every question about his FAA bill, rhapsodizing about why commercial aviation policy is inevitably bipartisan.

All of us care about aviation safety. Every one of us gets on airplanes, our kids get on airplanes. We want our kids to be safe, Cruz told HuffPost earlier this month. All of us care about having a vibrant aviation sector in America. It is a massive job producer in Texas. Aviation is absolutely critical to the economy of Texas. We also care about competition; we care about low prices. There are lots of elements of this bill that are really positive.

Cruzs colleagues have been amused by his collaborative turn.

Honestly, its been quite the sight, Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) told The Washington Post earlier this month. We have teased him about it for the last couple of days.

But when CNNs Kaitlan Collins asked the Texas senator on Wednesday if he would promise to accept the results of Novembers presidential election, the original Ted Cruz came back. He avoided answering what should have been an easy question.

Ive got to say, I think thats actually a ridiculous question, he said.

Related...
UCLA police on Thursday arrested a pro-Israel counterprotester for his role in the violent April 30 attack on a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus, the first such arrest made in relation to the incident.

Edan On, 18, was detained in Beverly Hills and booked on Thursday into the Los Angeles County Jail on suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon, according to police and jail records. He was held on $30,000 bail.

On was identified by CNN last week as one of the attackers. He is not a student but a local high-school senior, his mother told CNN, though she later denied he was at the protest at all.

Jessica Seinfeld: Dont Blame Me for UCLA Counterprotest Violence

His mother initially confirmed to CNN that On was the man seen in footage of the attack wearing a white hoodie and brandishing a pole, which he used to beat a pro-Palestinian protester and continue bludgeoning even as the protester went down.

Edan went to bully the Palestinian students in the tents at UCLA and played the song that they played to the Nukhba terrorists in prison! his mother proudly wrote on Facebook in a since-deleted post, accompanied by a screenshot of news footage from a local station. In the post, she identified her son by circling his figure in the screenshot of the news feed, CNN reported.

The violence at UCLA sparked intense scrutiny of the university and the police, as observers wondered how campus security could have let counterprotesters set off fireworks, and beat and bloody students for hours before intervening. The attack prompted an independent review of the universitys actions and of law enforcements handling of it, and last week, UCLA chancellor Gene Block was put on blast by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) during a congressional hearing for allowing the violence to happen on his watch.

For weeks, pro-Palestinian supporters criticized law enforcement for making no arrests of counterprotesters. Now that one has been made, more may follow.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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"I have asked my lawyers to look into this matter, determine the full extent of any misconduct that may have occurred," said Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti

Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty; Raymond Boyd/Getty Riley Keough, Graceland

The Tennessee Attorney General confirmed he is "looking into" the foreclosure auction at Graceland this week

The sale was halted on Wednesday

Granddaughter Riley Keough filed a lawsuit asking to block an LLC from selling the property

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti says he is "looking into" the recent attempt to sell Graceland, Elvis Presley's Memphis home.

The announcement comes one day after Chancellor JoeDae L. Jenkins of Chancery Court halted the sale of the iconic estate following Riley Keough's 60-page lawsuit asking to block Naussany Investments & Private Lending LLC from selling the property. Keough is Presley's granddaughter and inherited the mansion after the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley.

Graceland is one of the most iconic landmarks in the State of Tennessee, and the Presley family have generously shared it with the world since Elviss passing, Skrmetti wrote in a press release on Thursday, May 23, which was the date the property was slated for a foreclosure auction.

"Elvis [Presley] made Memphis the center of the music universe, and Graceland stands as a monument to his legacy and a fond remembrance for his family," he continued. "My office has fought fraud against homeowners for decades, and there is no home in Tennessee more beloved than Graceland. "

GAB Archive/Redferns Exterior view of Graceland

Related: Graceland Rep Speaks Out After Judge Halts Sale Following Foreclosure Attempt: 'No Validity'

"I have asked my lawyers to look into this matter, determine the full extent of any misconduct that may have occurred, and identify what we can do to protect both Elvis Presleys heirs and anyone else who may be similarly threatened," his statement added.

Keough filed her lawsuit in response to Naussany claiming that her mother, Lisa Marie, borrowed $3.8 million and gave them a deed of trust encumbering Graceland as security before her January 2023 death.

In the legal document reviewed by PEOPLE, the Daisy Jones & the Six star claimed that the note and deed of trust are fraudulent and unenforceable.



Eric Charbonneau/Getty (L-R) Priscilla Presley, Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough

Related: Elvis' Granddaughter Riley Keough Calls Graceland Foreclosure Sale Attempt 'Fraudulent' in Court Docs

The purported note and deed of trust are products of fraud, and those individuals who were involved in the creation of such documents are believed to be guilty of the crime of forgery, she further alleged.

Apart from pausing the sale of Graceland, Wednesday's hearing  in which Jenkins referred to the "loss" of Graceland as something that will be considered irreparable harm  also delayed the trial until Naussany is able to provide a defense to Keough's claims.

"They are claiming that both the signature of Lisa Marie Presley and the signature of the notary public are either fake or forged or cut and paste or somehow improperly put together, and if that's the case, then there could be a number of federal crimes potentially in play," Paul Golden, a partner at Coffey Modica who handles real estate litigation and commercial litigation in New York, tells PEOPLE. Golden is not involved in the Graceland case.

AFP/Getty Graceland estate

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

He adds that if a person was "forging documents such as a deed or making up a notarization, I believe those would be, could be part of what's called identity theft."

"It's also possible that mail fraud or wire fraud is involved in this depending on their use of, for example, the financial system to accomplish this task," Golden tells PEOPLE. "Yes, someone could, a person guilty could certainly go be imprisoned or given a fine."



Kurt Naussany is listed as a defendant in Keoughs filing, as her attorneys claim he sent numerous emails trying to collect the $3.8 million and threatening to sell Graceland. But when reached by PEOPLE via an email listed in the court documents, he responded, Please do not contact, and shared an email for Gregory Naussany that bounced back.



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Read the original article on People.
Tennessee woman left dog in car while she went to Clearwater beach: police

Tennessee woman left dog in car while she went to Clearwater beach: police

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A woman from Tennessee was accused of leaving her dog in the car while she went to the beach.

Clearwater police were called to Pier 60 where a large pit bull was left in a car parked in the sun with the windows cracked about two inches, according to the arrest report.

It was about 90 degrees outside at the time.

Police said the dog appeared to be falling asleep and was sweating profusely. It did not have an adequate amount of water and police reported that the little it did have was hot to the touch.

Based on the totality of circumstances, forced entry was made to the vehicle to save the animal, the arrest report stated. The defendant left her dog inside the vehicle for approximately 30-40 minutes.

Police identified the owner as Marie Rutherford, 40, of Nashville, Tennessee.

According to Clearwater police, the owner admitted to leaving the dog in the car while she went to the beach and said she thought it would be fine in the car because it had water.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
People gather outside while Taiwanese parliament is in session, in Taipei

By Yimou Lee, Fabian Hamacher and Angie Teo

TAIPEI (Reuters) - Tens of thousands of people took to the streets around Taiwan's parliament on Friday to demonstrate against contested parliamentary reforms, in a protest also marked by anger over China's perceived influence on the island's democracy.

The rally outside parliament, following one on Tuesday, came on the same day China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, carried out a second day of war games around the island Beijing has said were launched to punish Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, who it calls a "separatist".

Lai's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is trying to stop the opposition, who together have a majority of seats in the parliament, from forcing through measures to give lawmakers more oversight over the government. The DPP says more debate is needed.

The reforms will give lawmakers the power to ask the military, private companies or individuals to disclose information deemed relevant by parliamentarians.

They will also criminalise contempt of parliament by government officials and make the offence punishable with prison terms. But the DPP says there is no clear definition of contempt of parliament.

Taiwan's main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT), which supports closer ties with China but denies being pro-Beijing, says it is trying to bring more accountability to government.

Friday night's protesters, many of them students or young professionals, listened to speeches and carried banners accusing the opposition of trying to ram through the reforms, and even working in concert with China.

Senior DPP lawmaker Wang Ting-yu told the chamber the legislation would illegally expand the power of lawmakers, including the power to punish companies and individuals who failed to comply with parliamentary inquiries.

"It gives lawmakers the power to punish people," he said. "Did people vote us in so that we can punish people?"

The KMT has accused the DPP of trying to "spread rumours and paint them red", the colours of China's ruling Communist Party, in a bid to stifle the reforms.

"The DPP is hindering parliament reform as it is afraid that there will be no place to hide malpractice and lies," it said in a statement.

Homemaker Mucha Kung brought her nine-year-old son to the protest.

"Are they becoming the Chinese Communist Party's spokespeople in Taiwan, trying to erode our democracy?" she said, referring to opposition politicians.

"China is threatening us with force and trying to sway our opinions with influence campaigns."

The protests were peaceful, with police maintaining a relatively light though obvious presence around parliament.

"I think China is the one that needs reform. Why do they have to meddle with us when they themselves do not have a democratic system?" said retiree Fong Jye-mei, 66.

Inside parliament, lawmakers chanted slogans and plastered the chamber with banners, occasionally scuffling, with debate going on late into the evening.

Last Friday, legislators threw punches during a debate on the reforms.

(Reporting by Fabian Hamacher, Anne Wang, Yimou Lee and Angie Teo; Writing by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
This photo taken on May 22, 2024 shows a "light-out" factory of Baosteel in east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Gong Bing)

"We are optimistic about the Chinese market sectors, including health, education, senior living, and urban regeneration," said Joseph Brancato, who chairs the executive committee of Gensler, a global design and architecture firm.

NEW YORK, May 23 (Xinhua) -- China's business hub Shanghai held a promotion event here Thursday, which drew great attention and interest from investors in the United States.

The event has gathered around 150 attendees, including high-ranking officials, bankers, entrepreneurs from Shanghai, and scores of business leaders of international companies from the United States.

Shanghai has been one of the first choices for world businesses to invest in China and build global industry chains, said Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng in a keynote speech.

Nearly one third of the top 500 enterprises in the world have regional headquarters in Shanghai as the city has trade ties with 205 countries or regions, said Gong.

In 2023, over 6,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in the city with the amount of foreign direct investment received throughout the year totaling 24.08 billion U.S. dollars. At the end of 2023, the city has attracted over 950 regional headquarters of multinational companies and 550 foreign-funded research and development centers, according to an official bulletin.

Shanghai is speeding up the process of building itself into an international center of economy, finance, trade, shipping, and technological innovation, fostering new productivity boosters, and forging ahead with high-level reform and opening-up, said Gong.

The face-to-face meeting was warmly welcomed and drew positive responses from officials, businessmen, and local people.

In addressing the audience, Craig Allen, president of the U.S.-China Business Council (USCBC), said this face-to-face interaction is very welcome.

"Relationships suffered deeply during the COVID era. Therefore, the intimacy of this face-to-face communication is simply irreplaceable," Allen said.

The USCBC has been committed to forging a mutually beneficial U.S.-China relationship through its offices in Washington, Beijing, and Shanghai, as Shanghai is the window through which its member companies take the pulse of China, said Allen.

"We welcome Shanghai's commitment to opening up through leveraging pilots within and beyond free trade zones, and to facilitating policy breakthroughs and providing a level playing field for U.S. companies, including our members," Allen said.

A robot demonstrates coffee-brewing at an exhibition hall of JAKA Robotics in east China's Shanghai, May 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Gong Bing)

American companies are well positioned to increase their exports and to share the world's best technologies and expertise in a wide range of areas from clean energy to consumer goods, he said.

As the two countries celebrate the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, engagement at the sub-national or city-to-city level is essential to strengthening the world's most important bilateral relationship, restoring business confidence, and charting a course that is beneficial to the peoples of both countries, Allen added.

"We're committed to building bridges between the peoples of our two countries. American investment builds bridges, like no other activity," said Stephen Orlins, president of the National Committee of U.S.-China Relations.

"I'm fond of saying that trade is like dating, but investment is marriage. You've got to work to make it work," Orlins said.

Reviewing Shanghai's developments in the last few centuries, Orlins said Shanghai is a model of ingenuity and adaptability.

"We are optimistic about the Chinese market sectors, including health, education, senior living, and urban regeneration," said Joseph Brancato, who chairs the executive committee of Gensler, a global design and architecture firm, which has over 30 offices and more than 300 employees in China.

"Our aspirations in Shanghai are to create designs that reflect Chinese culture and values, as well as being an integral part of that community. We look forward to participating in Shanghai's bright future, building on innovation, strengthening our relationships and developing new relationships to bring people together through the power of design," Brancato told the audience.

"It was well articulated here and clear that Shanghai is positioned for growth, and this is the way we see the Chinese market," said Tom Mooney, director of public affairs with Harman International, a leader in automotive technology, lifestyle innovations, design and analytics.

From a perspective of research and development and engineering, Shanghai is really the heartbeat of Harman in China, Mooney told Xinhua on the sidelines of the event.

"Shanghai is home to SAIC Motor. From an automotive standpoint, we're always looking to increase our cooperation and business opportunities with them," said Mooney.

Mooney said he has not been to Shanghai, but hopes to go there very soon, especially after the introduction of Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season.

Several invitees jointly held a launching ceremony at the meeting for Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season 2024, which will run from the first weekend in July to the second weekend in October.
New tests confirm milk from flu-infected cows can make other animals sick  and raise questions about flash pasteurization

New lab experiments with milk from cows infected by H5N1 influenza, known as bird flu, confirm that it is infectious, especially when left raw, or untreated, and potentially even when flash pasteurized.

The researchers, from the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, are part of a federally funded program called the Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response, or CEIRR. This network has been conducting rapid research to answer pressing questions in the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle.

In a research letter posted online on Friday in the New England Journal of Medicine, the researchers describe the results of experiments using milk from four infected cows  two from New Mexico and two from Kansas.

Because H5N1 virus is considered a select agent, it was handled in a high-security Biosafety Level 3 lab at the University of Wisconsin, using strict safety protocols.

First, they confirmed the raw milk was chock-full of H5N1 virus. Then, they stored some of the raw milk at refrigerator temperature to see if levels of the virus in milk would drop off over time. Over 5 weeks, viral levels in raw milk dropped a bit, but not much.

That it wasnt decaying over time is concerning, said Dr. Seema Lakdawala, an associate professor of immunology and microbiology at Emory University who is also part of the CEIRR network but was not involved in the study.

In another series of tests, the researchers checked to see what types of pasteurization might work best for inactivating the virus.

They heated small samples of the milk at times and temperatures used in two types of pasteurization: low-temperature, long-time, or vat pasteurization; and high-temperature short-time, or flash pasteurization, which is the most common method used in the US today, according to the International Dairy Foods Association.

Heating the milk to 63 degrees Celsius, or 145 degrees Fahrenheit, for intervals between 5 and 30 minutes  the vat pasteurization method  reduced the virus to undetectable levels.

Heating the milk to 72 degrees Celsius, or 181 degrees Fahrenheit, for 15 or 20 seconds  conditions that approximated flash pasteurization  greatly reduced levels of the virus in the milk, but it didnt inactivate it completely.

Milk samples heated for 15 or 20 seconds were still able to infect incubated chicken eggs, a test the US Food and Drug Administration has called the gold-standard for determining whether viruses remain infectious in milk.

But, we emphasize that the conditions used in our laboratory study are not identical to the large-scale industrial treatment of raw milk, senior study author Dr. Yoshihiro Kawaoka, a virologist who specializes in the study of flu and Ebola, said in an email.

Thats a good reason not to panic over the study findings, said Lakdawala.

Lakdawala said that commercial flash pasteurization involves a preheating step, which wasnt done here. It also involves homogenization, a process that emulsifies the fat globules in milk so the cream wont separate. Both of those steps would probably make it harder for the virus to survive, but she adds that the results of this study suggest full process of commercial flash pasteurization should be done with all the steps in place.

Recent tests of 297 dairy products purchased at retail stores by the FDA found traces of genetic material from the H5N1 virus in about 1 of 5 milk samples, and further testing confirmed the viral fragments were inert and couldnt make anyone sick.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to the general public is low, but people should not eat or drink raw milk or products made from it.

To date, H5N1 influenza has been found in 58 dairy herds in nine states. Michigan has now surpassed Texas as the state with the greatest number of infected herds.

To test whether the raw milk could infect other animals, researchers also squirted some of the milk into the mouths of mice. The animals showed signs of illness the next day.

On day four, the mice hadnt died of their infections, but they were euthanized so that researchers could see what parts of their bodies had become infected. Scientists found the virus all over their bodies, with high viral loads in the lungs and respiratory tract. They also found virus in the mammary glands of the mice, even though they werent producing milk at the time.

Taken together, their findings confirm that raw milk can infect susceptible animals, the researchers said  and that could also indicate a risk to humans.

In a recent news briefing, officials with the US Department of Agriculture said that to their knowledge, none of the raw milk from farms known to have H5N1 infections was being sold to consumers.

Not all dairy farms are testing their cows, however, and some of the infected cows in the current outbreak have not shown any symptoms.

Raw milk is unsafe at any speed, and the notion that you could protect yourself against H5 infection by consuming it is erroneous. There are there are much safer ways to protect oneself namely avoiding raw milk, CDC Principal Deputy Director Dr. Nirav Shah said in a briefing.

Asked if the raw milk in the new experiments looked different than normal, Kawaoka said the researchers only got a small number of samples but some had more debris than milk from healthy cows. That would get filtered out prior to sale, he said. Some of the milk looked yellow-ish, but he points out that milk from healthy and infected cows would likely be mixed together in a big vat, making it look normal  and impossible to tell whether milk is safe to drink just by looking at it.

This is good quality research with conclusions backed up by solid data, said Dr. Ruth Harvey, deputy director of the Worldwide Influenza Center at the Francis Crick Institute in London, in a comment on the study given to the nonprofit Science Media Centre.

The limitations of the experimental set-up for the heat inactivation part of the research are clearly stated: that the conditions used are not identical to large-scale industrial treatment of raw milk, Harvey said.

The findings that viable virus was found in the milk samples after 5 weeks of storage at (4 degrees Celsius), and that mice could be infected through drinking milk containing the virus, back up the conclusions that drinking raw milk could pose a risk, Harvey added.

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One of the USs leading anti-abortion activists has been appointed to a Texas health committee tasked with reviewing maternal deaths.

The move worries reproductive justice advocates who say the states abortion ban  among the strictest in the US  has placed pregnant womens lives in jeopardy. The appointment could undermine the committees ability to accurately examine the impact of the law on deaths during and in the immediate aftermath of pregnancy, they say.

This appointment speaks volumes about how seriously certain state leaders are taking the issue of maternal mortality, said Kamyon Conner, executive director of the Texas Equal Access Fund, an abortion assistance group that advocates for reproductive health equity. It is another sign that the state is more interested in furthering their anti-abortion agenda than protecting the lives of pregnant Texans.

Dr Ingrid Skop, a San Antonio-based OB-GYN, has long been vocal about her views on abortion.

Skop serves as vice-president and director of medical affairs for the national anti-abortion research group Charlotte Lozier Institute and is a member of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists. She is also a plaintiff in a US supreme court lawsuit seeking to revoke the Food and Drug Administrations approval of the key abortion drug mifepristone, which she argues is dangerous despite years of evidence showing the drug is safe. She has authored a number of research papers that were ultimately retracted for misleading errors.

Skop  who has called the supreme courts overturning of Roe v Wade a victory in the battle but not the end of the war  has argued in favor of forcing rape and incest victims as young as nine or 10 to carry pregnancies to term. If she is developed enough to be menstruating and become pregnant and reach sexual maturity, she can safely give birth to a baby, Skop told the House oversight committee in 2021. Pregnancy at such a young age is shown to carry significant health risks, including pre-eclampsia and infections.

In Texas, Skop has repeatedly testified at the legislature and in court in support of state abortion bans, most recently in a hearing opposing abortion care for Kate Cox, a Dallas woman who petitioned a judge for emergency access after receiving a lethal fetal diagnosis.

Texas has seen a number of instances of pregnant women being denied emergency abortions, despite, in some cases, life-threatening pregnancy complications. Studies have shown that some patients are being forced to wait at deaths door before doctors, who face criminal penalties under the states ban, intervene. But Skop has argued that the problem rests with the judgment of individual physicians, not the law itself.

Contrary to the arguments of many experts, Skop believes that abortion bans not only will not lead to an increase in maternal deaths, but may actually help reduce those rates. She calls the link between abortion restrictions and risks to maternal mortality fallacious.

Maternal mortality rates in Texas  among the worst in the US  more than doubled between 1999 and 2019. Skop told the Houston Chronicle the states high rate of maternal death deserves rigorous discourse.

There are complex reasons for these statistics, including chronic illnesses, poverty and difficulty obtaining prenatal care, and I have long been motivated to identify ways womens care can be improved, said Skop. For over 30 years, I have advocated for both of my patients, a pregnant woman and her unborn child, just like the overwhelming majority of OB-GYNs who dont perform elective abortions.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists questioned Skops appointment, saying it was crucial that maternal review committee members be informed by data, not ideology. Her bias is relevant because abortion, they note, is inherently tied to maternal health.

We believe that all members of the MMRC should be unbiased, free of conflicts of interest, and focused on the appropriate standards of care when evaluating maternal mortality and morbidity in Texas, which were already at unacceptably high levels even before Texas passed its abortion bans and restrictions, said ACOG in a statement.

Bias against abortion has already led to compromised analysis and, ultimately, dangerously flawed data, said ACOG, citing three research papers critical of abortion that Skop co-authored. The studies were ultimately retracted by the academic publisher for unjustified or incorrect factual assumptions, as well as errors and misleading presentations of the data that showed a lack of scientific rigor and invalidate the authors conclusions in whole or in part.

Skop did not respond to a request from the Guardian for comment.

The 23-member Texas maternal mortality and review committee, created in 2013 amid a maternal healthcare crisis, gathers data on pregnancy-related deaths.

The committees latest report showed that 90% of maternal deaths in the state were probably preventable. It is now reviewing pregnancy-related deaths from 2020 and plans to examine the impact of state abortion laws on maternal health in the coming years.

Nakeenya Wilson, who nearly lost her life giving birth in Texas, sat on the committee as an outspoken community advocate, pushing for the release of data when the state health commissioner delayed publication of the report in 2022. As a voice for people of color, Wilson championed the stories of black women, who are disproportionately affected by maternal mortality rates both nationally and in Texas.

After legislation in 2023 eliminated her community advocate role, Wilson applied to a different role on the committee, but did not get the job.

While Skops role is meant for a rural community member, she has spent her career working in San Antonio, a major Texas city. Skop, who is one of seven new appointees, will begin her six-year term on 1 June.

As a black mother who went through a traumatic pregnancy first-hand, I think I provided that necessary lived experience and could represent my community well, Wilson said. We need to ask, what community is [Skop] representing?
The National Center for Homeless Education reported that Texas is the location of 10 percent of the countys homeless youth:93,000 students in Texas school districts report experiencing homelessness, per the Texas Network of Youth Services.

However, a local investigation found those schools may be adding to the problem.



An investigative report from Houston Landing  examining state data, annual school discipline reports as well as interviewing former students  revealed Texas school districts have a record of illegally suspending students. Why is it illegal, you ask? The report cites a 2019 state law which bans schools from issuing out-of-school suspensions to students with known housing insecurities if the incident in question did not involve weapons or violence.

Districts identified include the Houston Independent School District, which has a 22 percent Black student population, and the Beaumont Independent School District, which has a 59 percent Black student population.

The report acknowledged how tricky to whittle down the exact number of illegal suspensions for a number of reasons, including students becoming homeless after a suspension. However, youth who spoke to the paper told reporters that the discipline led to serious academic and life consequences.

If I didnt miss as much school as I did for the simple things, like being bullied, I probably would have graduated with a 3.0 or 4.0. Ultimately, school wasnt hard. It wasnt the math, it wasnt the science, it wasnt algebra, it wasnt geometry. It wasnt none of that. It was like, literally, the stuff that I was facing mixed with the administration, 25-year-old Brandon Williams told Landing.

Data reviewed by Houston Landing suggests the districts are practicing suspensions at two-thirds the rate they were before the law was even signed and sealed. Despite the violations, the news outlet finds there has been no enforcement to the law from neither school officials nor lawmakers.

Read more from Houston Landing:

Despite the repeated violations of the 2019 law, the Texas Education Agency has not investigated or sanctioned any districts that broke the rules. TEA spokesperson Jake Kobersky said the agency can only launch investigations into misconduct allegations in response to complaints from the public. State regulations do not require the agency to enforce the suspension law, but they do give the states education commissioner  who leads the TEA  broad power to start an investigation when they determine necessary. When presented with the Landings findings, one of the bills co-sponsors, state Rep. Eugene Wu, D-Houston, said the Legislature should change the law during next years session. Wu said the Legislature laid out clear direction in the law but left out enforcement measures, allowing districts to skirt it without consequences.

All hope isnt lost, though: Some measures have been taken in support of these youth.

For example, local legal organization Texas Appleseed took initiative to back a 2019 bill, allowing homeless youth to bypass all fees associated with obtaining legal documents such as an ID or drivers license.

However, that organization, along with others, are still working to secure rights for homeless minors as well as pulling on legislators to enforce laws to protect homeless youth. As of now, there are still thousands of students in limbo.

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SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The Tom Green County Sheriffs Office has released details regarding its arrest of a migrant accused of possessing child pornography.

According to TGSO, law enforcement officers received a CyberTip from CyberTip from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children on April 16 relating to the possession of child sexual abuse material. The sheriffs office launched an investigation and identified 29-year-old Carlos Beltran Montes de Oca as a suspect.

Investigators established probable cause, and on May 24, a search warrant was executed in the unit block of West 18th Street. Beltran was taken into custody and charged with six counts of possession of child pornography.

MORE DETAILS: Man arrested in San Angelo on 6 charges of child porn

Multiple electronic devices were seized and remain to be forensically searched, according to TGSO. Other evidence discovered revealed Beltran to be in the United States illegally as well.

The investigation is ongoing, and TGSO expects additional charges to be filed.

The Tom Green County Sheriffs Office remains steadfast in its resolve of actively investigating crimes of child exploitation, TGSO said. The Sheriffs Office works to protect children by using the latest technology to track down and arrest some of the most profoundly evil predators online.

TGSO reminds the public to remain vigilant of the risks children face on the internet and to take steps to secure their safety. It asks that you file a report to MCMEC or the sheriffs office if you suspect someone is producing or downloading child pornography.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
A group of over 200 protesting MU Health's cancelation of transgender minors' prescriptions approaches Columbia City Hall Sept. 15. MU Health backed out of gender-affirming care for minors after the passage of a new state law including broad medical malpractice provisions (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

A state investigation of the Washington University Transgender Center in St. Louis expanded to include therapists and social workers across the state who work with minors seeking gender-affirming care.

Documents made public as part of various lawsuits show that Attorney General Andrew Bailey has obtained a collection of unredacted and loosely redacted records of transgender children, including a list of patients that received care at the Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Childrens Hospital.

He is also seeking untethered access to the universitys digital medical records system.

The attorney generals use of private medical records, and the targeting of therapists and counselors, has interrupted the health care of LGBTQ Missourians and has families worrying about their childrens privacy.

Katy Erker-Lynch, executive director for Missouri LGBTQ advocacy organization PROMO, told The Independent she fears that the pressure will drive health care providers out of the state, especially impacting rural Missourians.

The attorney general has created a hostile environment for medical providers where they are afraid to stay and practice medicine, she said.

The saga began last year when Bailey launched an investigation based on an affidavit from Washington University whistleblower Jamie Reed. Bailey is using the affidavit to question other gender-affirming-care providers like Planned Parenthood, which he has said he hopes to eradicate.

The probe involves the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, which oversees medical licensing in the state. According to records obtained by The Independent, the agency interviewed 57 health professionals as part of the inquiry and had 16 cases open as of early May.

While Bailey announced the division would assist in the investigation when he first announced it, therapists did not expect to be included  or have their license to practice put at risk.

The divisions chief legal counsel, Sarah Ledgerwood, told The Independent that the division and its boards cant join other officials investigations. When asked about Baileys investigation, she said the boards can only complete investigations based on receipt of a complaint.

Division Director Sheila Solon said last year that she anticipated complaints as part of the attorney generals investigation.

Kelly Storck, a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on LGBTQ-positive therapy, was interviewed last year and expressed grave concerns about unredacted medical records of minors being in the hands of a state official who has repeatedly opposed gender-affirming care.

When the division contacted Storck for an interview, she hired a lawyer before meeting with the investigator.

During the meeting, she says the investigator had a small stack of unredacted letters Storck had sent the Transgender Center to recommend clients for gender-affirming care.

Storck recalled senior investigator Nick McBroom telling her he wasnt fully sure what he was doing, saying she was taking the interview more seriously than it was. He questioned why she had a lawyer.

McBroom asked about the process of writing letters of support, Storck said, opening a file with just a portion of the letters she had sent to the Transgender Center. She said she noticed the documents had green underlines added and asked McBroom if they were his edits. He didnt seem to know the source of the underlines.

After a 30-45 minute interview, McBroom asked her to write up her process. Through her attorney, she declined, and her case was closed soon after.

McBroom declined to speak to The Independent about the case.

I still have a lot of distrust about who initiated it, Storck said, and who was in my documents.

Parents of transgender children told The Independent they have heard whispers of other therapists facing investigation.

Multiple providers declined to be interviewed about the investigation out of fear of retaliation. Storck, though, had already faced the attorney general as one of the plaintiffs attempting to block an emergency rule targeting transgender care filed by Bailey last year.

A fight for patient privacy

A legal battle between Washington University and the attorney generals office shows the records used in the interviews may have directly come from the university itself.

In the attorney generals offices response to the litigation, a timeline is laid out of the university turning over three sets of documents. In its second document production, Washington University gave the attorney general a list of patients in a spreadsheet.

The supplemental production included a spreadsheet titled Transgender Patient data, the attorney generals office wrote. Which included various workbooks chronicling patient names, encounters and medications, among other information.

The attorney generals office has declined to comment about the scope of the investigation and the source of investigative documents. Washington University also declined comment.

People who have received care at the Transgender Center have asked to be notified if their health records are accessed, but many assume some of their information is already in the attorney generals hands.

The Independent asked Reed if she provided any of the documents to the attorney general.

I cannot definitively say what the therapists are being handed (or) where it came from, she said. We just dont really know where those things directly came from. The one thing I will add is that any documents that were provided to the attorney generals office from me were redacted.

Reed said she did not give any documents that would be stored in the electronic health records software Epic. When asked where else the records could come from, she said, email or shared drive.

The records investigators had of Storcks patients included names, something Reed said she redacted before providing to the attorney general.

Becky Hormuth and her 17-year-old son Levi, who was a patient at the Transgender Center, have been hearing about the scope of Baileys investigation for months.

They learned that the attorney generals office had been looking into Levis psychologists records and heard about other providers that had interviews related to their support for gender-affirming care.

Levi said the attorney generals work seemed like complete government overreach.

Baileys actions, like a tip line about gender-affirming care and an emergency rule that sought to limit access to certain procedures and prescriptions, prompted Hormuth to prepare to move out of state.

It is very invasive, what hes doing, she told The Independent. The state has already basically disrupted our lives. Theyve disrupted our families, our childrens lives with the legislation that has passed. Then for him to continue going on is even more invasive and damaging.

When lawmakers passed a ban on gender-affirming care for minors that included a provision that allowed broad medical malpractice claims, the Transgender Center stopped providing Levis medication.

Hormuth learned from other parents to make her sons medication stretch, just in case it would be a long time before a refill.

She had requested an appointment with a provider in Illinois prior to the laws passage, and Levi was on a waiting list. The center told her at the time that they werent taking new out-of-state patients because there was already a large influx from multiple states.

But eventually, Hormuth got a call that they were ready to take out-of-state patients. So, she and Levi make periodic trips to Chicago to go to the doctor.

Levi is old enough to receive hormone-replacement therapy at the Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Regions clinics, which accept transgender patients 16 and up for gender-affirming care.

But Hormuth wanted to take her son someplace outside of Baileys reach.

I was absolutely dead set against going to Planned Parenthood locally because I knew that as soon as we would establish ourselves at Planned Parenthood that (Bailey) was going to come there and start digging through those papers and those personal records, she said. I absolutely was not going to give him the chance at any other aspect of our familys life.

Both branches of Planned Parenthood in Missouri are also subjects of Baileys investigation, according to court filings, despite the attorney generals office only publicly announcing an investigation into the Transgender Center.

The attorney general is not allowed to investigate medical malpractice claims, but it can look into false advertising under the states consumer protection law, known as the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.

Bailey used that law to file an emergency rule, which he later rescinded before a court case could decide its bounds, and he is utilizing it again to dig into gender-affirming-care providers.

In a case in the Circuit Court of Jackson County, Baileys office admits the investigation into the Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Childrens Hospital has multiple subjects.

Planned Parenthood Great Plains filed a lawsuit to avoid the attorney generals civil investigative demands which it argued sought sweeping information about its practice and patients.

Let us know what you think...

In court documents, Solicitor General Josh Divine wrote that the civil investigative demand was looking into the organization and others in addition to the Transgender Center.

The attorney general is investigating (the Transgender Center) and others in the state who may have used deception, fraud, false promises, misrepresentation, unfair practices, and/or the concealment, suppression, or omission of material facts within the scope of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, Divine wrote. The attorney general has already made unequivocally clear that (Planned Parenthood) is under investigation.

Similar arguments are on display in a case between the Planned Parenthood affiliate in St. Louis and the attorney generals office.

(Baileys) request encompasses hundreds, if not thousands, of patient records concerning treatment decisions, discussions with physicians, mental health assessments and prescription information, among other areas, Planned Parenthoods attorney wrote in its lawsuit.

Judges ruled in favor of the attorney generals office in both cases, which have been recently appealed.

A case filed by Childrens Mercy Hospital in Kansas City against Baileys investigative demands also went in favor of the attorney general.

Washington Universitys case against the attorney generals office is yet to be decided.

This fall, the attorney generals office will defend the state in a case that seeks to reverse a ban on gender-affirming care for minors passed last legislative session.

Storck said the inquiry has compounded anxieties about access to gender-affirming care that patients have following the passage of the ban.

I really was so afraid that some of my clients were going to be in absolute emergent situations and really struggle to get access to health care, she said. My patients have connected with what they need, but it is now an all-day or multiple-day event to get medical care. Previously, they could have gotten it (within two hours).

The post Therapists, social workers face scrutiny in Missouri AG investigation of transgender care appeared first on Missouri Independent.
Thousands of Trump fanatics swarm Bronx park for his first NY rally since 2016: Hes a real Nelson Mandela

Thousands of hardcore Donald Trump fanatics flooded the South Bronx on Thursday for the ex-presidents campaign rally  including one diehard who likened the Republican to one of the most famous civil rights activists.

He represents us, the blacks in this city and in the world. Hes a real Nelson Mandela, Paget Jones, 45, of Harlem, told The Post outside the Crotona Park event.

The Big Apple teacher  wearing a red MAGA hat  likened Trumps fight against his four criminal indictments to the 27 years Mandela spent behind bars for going against his countrys racist policies.

Thousands swarmed Crotona Park in hopes of hearing ex-President Donald Trump speak at his first rally in the state in eight years. REUTERS

Trump is the first current or former president to be indicted on criminal charges.

The fact that I like Trump and why a lot of black people are out here in the Bronx for Trump is because Trump is a fighter. Trump has that God factor. They prosecuted him, they lied about him! she said, adding that she voted for him twice.

The minorities of New York, theyre coming around. He definitely represents that vote.

The South Bronx rally marks the first that Trump, 77, has hosted in his native state in eight years, and comes just two weeks after an event on the Jersey Shore drew a crowd of nearly 100,000.

Only 3,500 were permitted to enter the Bronx gathering, but the crowds outside the check-in gates well exceeded the capacity cap in hopes of watching the rare event.

Paget Jones of Harlem likened Trump to Nelson Mandela because he represents us, the blacks in this city and in the world. LP Media for NY Post

While there was no immediate crowd estimate from the NYPD, the Trump campaign said at least 20,000 people were gathered outside.

Red MAGA hats and Lets Go Brandon T-shirts were spotted throughout the Big Apple park in preparation for the ex-president, and the pungent odor of marijuana hung in the air.

Among the attendees were a rapper with a thigh tattoo of the Republicans face and a MAGA diehard who follows Trump across the country in an RV decked out in Trump regalia.

The rally attendance was capped at 3,500 people but a large crowd gathered outside. Getty Images

One man even dressed as the 2024 candidate, wearing Trumps signature red tie and blue suit combo, along with a pouty duck face.

Christopher Ahearn, 66, of Norwood, was one of many hopefuls standing in line to attend the rally, which would be the first hes ever attended.

I believe he cares about this country and cares about the citizens. I dont think there is any choice, the retired electrician said about Trump.

Trump supporters and protesters clashed at the Bronx park, with some individuals resorting to shoving. REUTERS

Ahearn staunchly supports the Republican, despite his own wife and his electricians union siding with Biden.

I cant get my wife to have common sense.

Joe Biden has done nothing and hes a criminal. Hes ridiculous! The man cant walk. He can hit the nuclear button, and hes a functioning moron.

The Trump campaign said at least 20,000 people were gathered outside. Getty Images

Steve Riley, 58, of the Bronxs County Club neighborhood, said hes very happy for the opportunity to stand in line for 90 minutes to hear Trump speak.

Riley, who works in real estate, admires that Trump has remained steadfast in his conservative policies throughout his political career, even while taking a four-year hiatus.

Why do I support him? Because theres nothing that you cannot support about him. All his policies are perfect  closing up the border, all types of stuff for the American people, said Riley, wearing a Trump 2024 Paybacks a Bitch T-shirt.

Red MAGA hats and Lets Go Brandon T-shirts were spotted throughout the Big Apple park in preparation for the ex-president, and the pungent odor of marijuana hung in the air. Getty Images

Ive seen my business relationships, everyone has flipped, even so-called Democrats have now changed their minds.

Not all the attendees were pro-Trump, however.

Several dozen resisters stretched out a No dictators in the USA sign outside the park in opposition to the Republicans arrival.

Chaos briefly erupted when the opposing groups clashed inside the park, with several members of each side shoving the other and screaming. Stephen Yang

Peter Blade, who was born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Bronx, calmly attended the rally to experience the buzz, despite losing faith in Trump following his 2017 visit to the storm-battered Caribbean island.

The only time Trump went to Puerto Rico was after Hurricane Maria, and he threw paper towels at his supporters. Those were people who looked to Trump. It was a major hurricane. They went six months without light, said Blade, 50.

As a show of his silent opposition, the facility maintenance worker wore two rolls of paper towels on a nylon rope around his neck and a hat bearing the Coqui, or Puerto Ricos native frog: We havent forgotten.

The conflict only lasted several minutes before the NYPD stepped in. AFP via Getty Images

According to Blade, Trumps choice to host a rally in the Bronx was not out of kindness.

I feel he came to the Bronx because were the last resort. Due to his legal troubles, he had no choice. But its OK. Were used to being the last resort. Were never counted out. Were just counted last, Blade emphasized.

Chaos briefly erupted when the opposing groups clashed inside the park, with several members of each side shoving the other and screaming.

Fk Trump! Fk Biden, too! They dont give a fk about you! the anti-Trump group shouted.

The conflict only lasted several minutes before the NYPD stepped in.
A winemakers renovation project in Gobelsburg, Austria, has led to the discovery of mammoth bones dating back up to 40,000 years, providing potential new insights into Upper Paleolithic hunting practices.

A seemingly routine renovation in Gobelsburg, Austria, has led to a remarkable paleontological and anthropological find. Winemaker Andreas Pernerstorfer stumbled upon huge bones in March while upgrading his wine cellar. He reported the discovery to the Federal Monuments Office, which redirected him to the Austrian Archaeological Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OAW), according to a press release.

OAW archaeologist Hannah Parow-Souchon (right) explains the bone location to a local councillor (center) and cellar owner Andreas Pernestorfer (left). - Photo: OAW-OAI/Th. Einwogerer

Since the beginning of May, a team of archaeologists has been investigating and uncovering a significant layer of mammoth bones lying on top of each other. The bones are thought to be between 30,000 and 40,000 years old, making it the most significant find of its kind in over a century. OAW says similar sites in Austria and neighboring countries were mostly excavated over 100 years ago, and as a result, are forever lost to modern research techniques.

OAW archaeologist Hannah Parow-Souchon, who is leading the excavation, highlighted the rarity of such a dense layer of bones, saying its the first time that we have been able to examine something like this in Austria using modern meansa unique opportunity for research. The researchers are now documenting the site with 3D mapping technology, according to the History Blog.



The team at work in the cellar. - Photo: OAW-OAI/H. Parow-Souchon

The discovery raises many questions about Upper Paleolithic hunting practices. We know that people hunted mammoths, but we still know very little about how they did it, said Parow-Souchon. The site could either be where the animals died naturally or where people set a trap for them, the archaeologists speculate.



Remarkably, bones from at least three different mammoths have been found at the site. This discovery aligns with a nearby site where flint artifacts, jewelry, fossils, and charcoal were found 150 years ago, suggesting both sites are related and from the same timeframe. Once the excavation is complete, the finds will be handed over to the Natural History Museum in Vienna for restoration. Hopefully, Pernerstorfer can avoid finding more big bones, finish his renovations, and enjoy some nice wine.

More: Enormous 18th-Century Ice House Re-Discovered Under London Street

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Three people killed, two more injured in Russian strikes on Donetsk Oblast

Russian forces targeted Bakhmut, Kramatorsk and Pokrovsk districts (Donetsk Oblast) on 24 May, claiming the lives of three people.

Source: Donetsk Oblast Prosecutor's Office

Quote: "Two men aged 63 and 71 have been killed in the town of Siversk. Early reports indicate that the enemy used multiple-launch rocket systems and tubed artillery.

In addition, Russian troops dropped a guided aerial bomb on the village of Zelene Pole of Illinivka hromada. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]. A 40-year-old internally displaced person from Pokrovsk district has died under the rubble of a house destroyed by the munition."

Details: In addition, two residents of the village of Novozhelanne and the town of Krasnohorivka have been injured in the Russian bombardment. A woman, 38, and a man, 41, have been hospitalised with shrapnel injuries.

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[In the player above, watch unrelated coverage from FOX 8 sister station 27 First News on a 1-year-old child saved after being pulled from a pond in Girard on Thursday, May 23.]

ROME TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW)  An 18-month-old girl drowned in a private pond on Thursday, May 23, according to the Ashtabula County Sheriffs Office.

The girls mother found her in the pond on the familys Dodgeville Road property, about 15 minutes after she had gone missing, according to a Friday news release.

How Ohio bill would change drunk driving penalties

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The girl was pulled from the pond and lifesaving measures were performed.

EMS workers from South Central Ambulance District arrived and transported her to a helicopter landing zone, from which she was flown to a hospital. But the girl died after leaving the scene.

Wrongful death lawsuit filed after Ohio woman freezes to death in home

Though the pond was fenced in, investigators learned its gate had been left open, according to the release.

An investigation is ongoing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Tom Horne's real sin is he wants Arizona high schools to be too safe

Tom Horne should know better.

Arizona public schools, like most in this country, are creatures of the left. Thats not a conspiracy theory. Thats an unavoidable fact with some exceptions.

Institutions dependent on government for their budgets are more likely to support the political party that wants to give them more money.

That is generally the party of big government  the Democrats.

So, if youre Tom Horne, the Republican chief of Arizona public schools, and a natural adversary to teachers and administrators, youll want to play a little defense.

Youll want to make sure youve done your homework before you advise two Valley high schools to get rid of Amnesty International clubs they dont have  before you tell them their schools have been dispensers of antisemitism.

Otherwise, youll find yourself the subject of mirthful clucking at your expense on campus and in local media.

Horne wants to keep kids away from ideas

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne speaks during a news conference in Phoenix on May 7, 2024.

That said, this is all thin gruel.

The Amnesty International story doesnt do any real damage to Horne, but it does raise a lot of interesting questions.

For instance, how much should public school children be interacting with the political world around them?

Given the paradigm shift underway in global communications and the algorithms manipulating what we watch and read online, it would seem our high school students had better have the skills to navigate all that, which requires robust contact with the outside world.

And, in fact. they already do engage the outside world a lot  unchaperoned. Theyre on the internet. You may have noticed.

But they would do well to start applying critical thinking as they engage more and more new and controversial ideas. And the best way to do that is with the guiding hand of faculty serving either as teacher or adviser.

Schools should help sort through them

Does Amnesty International pose a threat to young Jewish students?

Amnesty International leaders have expressed hostility to Israel and questioned its right to exist. They have called Israel an illegitimate state.

All of this can be countered.

Israel is the only Democratic state in the Middle East.

Antisemitic college protests: Are far more vile now

Arab citizens in Israel enjoy greater rights than the citizens of any Arab nation in the region.

If Hamas had done to, say, Pakistan what it did to Israel on Oct. 7, Gaza would be a strip of glass and the world would witness real genocide.

A public school that is ferociously neutral on politics and aggressively teaches critical thinking can help young Jews navigate the world theyre about to enter.

Or, for that matter, young African Americans, or young Latinos, or young Native Americans or young Catholics or young conservatives.

Students need to understand counterpoints

Everyone is going to get slapped around. Time to get ready.

Expose them to the world of point and counterpoint. Teach them that to every argument there is a counterargument. I know Horne believes in this.

Help them understand that opposing points of view are not your enemy. They are the tools that efficiently dispose of your bad ideas and sharpen your best ones.

Teach them how to discern between the people who are really thinking and the people who are mere ideologues. The ideologues are incapable of seeing the world from another persons perspective.

Make sure any student who graduates from an Arizona public high school has that rudimentary capacity  to step into their opponents shoes. Its what makes us civilized.

Both schools have other controversial clubs

When I look at the websites from the two high schools cited in the Horne story, I see lots of controversy.

For instance, under activities at Chandlers Hamilton High School is a listing for M.E.Ch.A  Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan  a student organization that promotes higher education, Hispanic culture, and history. We seek to gain self-determination for our members through their Hispanic identity.

Great. If M.E.Ch.A is still an activity at Hamilton, lets ask the kids what they think of Arizona State University suspending its M.E.Ch.A chapter after it called for killing white farmers in South Africa, European immigrants in North America and all the people who support Israel.

That would be a great discussion for Hamilton seniors.

Under clubs at Cactus Shadows High School in Scottsdale, I see a listing for Turning Point USA  a young conservatives club. Lets ask those students if ASU was right to press charges against Turning Point USA members who harassed and pushed and injured an LGBTQ faculty member?

Likewise, a great discussion for Cactus Shadows seniors.

Teach them how to think, not what to think

And if I were participating, I would tell students it seemed to me that ASU handled both cases just right, but I'm open to other points of view. Id very much like to hear theirs.

What are the important elements? Tell me why Im wrong.

The greatest thing our public schools can teach our children is not what to think, but how to think.

It is the most vital skill theyll carry into adulthood. And more than ever, they'll need it.

Phil Boas is an editorial columnist with the Arizona Republic. Email him at phil.boas@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Tom Horne's real sin is he wants high schools to be too safe
RAMALLAH, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The widely-applauded decisions by Norway, Ireland and Spain to recognize Palestine as a state show that more countries now stand on the side of justice over the issue, leaving the United States increasingly isolated.

Palestinians have long craved statehood. Back in 1988, the Palestine National Council meeting in Algiers proclaimed the establishment of the State of Palestine. By now, some 140 countries have recognized a Palestinian state. In stark contrast, most Western nations are not among them.

Going against the global trend, Western countries, the United States in particular, have repeatedly let the Palestinians down. In 2011 and again this year, the United States vetoed the full membership of Palestine in the United Nations, blocking the way to a Palestinian state.

The injustice, long suffered by the Palestinian people, still has yet to be redressed, thereby becoming the root cause of the Palestinian-Israeli conflicts. While the fundamental two-state solution remains elusive, the fallout is disastrous. Since the start of the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict in October 2023, the Palestinian death toll has surpassed 35,000, while the Israeli death toll from Hamas's surprise attack on Oct. 7, 2023 stands at 1,139, according to media reports.

The Palestinian question is at the heart of the Middle East issue and matters to the region's peace and stability as well as global equity and justice. It has been the strong call of the international community and the common responsibility of all parties to support and advance the process of Palestine's independent statehood so as to facilitate lasting peace in the Middle East.

"We believe that recognition will contribute to peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. It is a statement of unequivocal support for a two-state solution - the only credible path to peace and security for Israel, for Palestine and for their peoples," Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said on social media.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, for his part, also noted that Spain recognizes Palestine "for peace, for justice, and for consistency," urging both parties to engage in dialogue to achieve a two-state solution.

"There will be no peace in the Middle East without a two-state solution. And there can be no two-state solution without a Palestinian state. In other words, a Palestinian state is a prerequisite for achieving peace in the Middle East," said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.

Earlier this month, a UN General Assembly emergency special session adopted by an overwhelming majority a resolution to reaffirm the right of Palestinian people to self-determination, including the right to an independent State of Palestine, which is qualified for full membership in the United Nations. It recommended that the Security Council reconsider in favor of its application to join the UN.

The three European countries' positive move is deemed a solid step toward Palestinians' statehood, as it may encourage other countries, not least those in the West, to take similar steps. "Recognition is a tangible step towards a viable political track leading to Palestinian self-determination," said Hugh Lovatt, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

The announcements made clear the view in a growing number of capitals that Palestinian sovereignty cannot wait for a permanent peace deal with Israel, The New York Times pointed out.

Perhaps most significant is how the new recognitions point to the erosion of U.S. "ownership" of the Israel-Palestine peace process since the period of Oslo peace talks and agreement, commented British daily The Guardian.

Despite the progress, the way toward an independent statehood is riddled with hurdles erected by the United States. The U.S. government on Wednesday pushed back on the decisions by Norway, Ireland and Spain, saying that Palestinian statehood should not be realized through "unilateral recognition." Though claiming to support the two-state solution, Washington has, as always, actually conducted itself with duplicity.

Turning a deaf ear to the just call from the international community, Washington has talked about the need for a ceasefire while pouring weapons into Israel, and talked about aid while creating obstacles for humanitarian access. Disgraceful is a double-dealer as such.

A glimmer of hope is desperately needed and an immediate and durable ceasefire in Gaza should be prioritized, though not as easy as it has already shown. As the negotiations continue, relevant countries need to demonstrate political courage, heed the call of the international community, bear in mind the fundamental interests of people in the region and take concrete actions to support the two-state solution. 
Editor's note: Handshakes and Headshakes are my quick takes on local events, groups or newsmakers whose actions, decisions or performance deserves to be celebrated or called out.

It's way too early for a victory lap, but Cincinnati Southern Railway Board members must be smiling. The $1.6 billion Cincinnati Southern Railway Trust is off to a good start.

The trust has grown by $14 million in its first two months, according to the first quarterly update on the fund released Tuesday. That's already more than half of what the city would have received from Norfolk Southern's annual $25 million lease payment. The city sold the railroad to Norfolk Southern Corp. on March 15 after voters approved the transaction in November.

Enquirer Editorial: Time for Cincinnati to get out of the railroad business

No one knows for sure where the markets will go  we're dealing with stocks after all  but, so far, the trust is trending in the right direction. And after such a nasty, contentious campaign to convince voters that selling the railroad was in the city's best interest, that has to be a relief for the railway board.

From left: Former Cincinnati Mayor Charlie Luken, Paul Sylvester, Board Chair Paul Muething, former Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory, former Councilwoman Amy Murray and Assistant City Solicitor Kaitlyn Geiger meet during the first Cincinnati Southern Railway Board meeting since the election on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, at Walnut Hills Branch Library in Walnut Hills.

"It was such a heavy lift," said Amy Murray, a member of the railway board. "The amount of volunteer hours and energy that went into doing a deal like this was tremendous. I think we are in a good situation. So far, so good."

And that's with UBS, the international money-management firm the board selected to invest the money, playing it relatively safe. Murray said the railway board chose to invest a lot in bonds and are "slowly" going to venture into equity markets as the months go on. She said board members want Cincinnati residents to have confidence in how money from the railroad sale is being invested and spent. To that end, the railway board plans to put all of that information on its website for the public to see.

More: Norfolk Southerns fourth-quarter profit falls 33% as Ohio derailment costs continue to grow

The railway board, which took its share of slings and arrows during the campaign to sell the railroad, deserves some kudos. Board members have been thorough, transparent and are doing and reporting their work in public. Tuesday's update from UBS felt more like an investment meeting between a client and money manager that was focused on best returns than a government meeting. But, the presentation was impressive and the report was comprehensive with detailed accounting. The railway board is doing what it said it would do. They are being good stewards of the public's money.

The Save Our Rail group speaks in opposition of the proposed sale of the Cincinnati Southern Railway to Norfolk Southern during a press conference outside of City Hall in downtown Cincinnati on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023.

Meanwhile, I'm shaking my head at all the railroad sale naysayers. After all the concerns expressed during the campaign about the city "killing the goose that laid the golden egg" by selling the railroad, not a single detractor showed up for this important update on the trust. Only the news media was there.

A year ago, folks had an excuse for not showing up to railway board meetings  most Cincinnatians didn't even know the board existed or that the city owned a railroad. But residents are more than aware now, and the railway board provides notifications of its meetings. Look, no one expects every railway board meeting to be packed to the rafters, but one would think at least one or two of those critics would have taken time out to check on railroad money they fought so hard to protect. Their absence makes me wonder if all that outcry was genuine or just politics. Had the trust taken even a slight dip, I'm sure critics would be coming out of the woodwork, and the chorus of I-told-you-sos would be deafening.

More: Without oversight, $1.6 billion railroad fund ripe for mismanagement, waste | Opinion

In Tuesdays election, voters decided to sell Cincinnatis railroad. Issue 22 allows the Cincinnati Southern Railway board to see the railroad to Norfolk Southern for $1.6 billion. The railway was founded in 1869. Photo is shot from Hopple Street overpass, Wednesday, Nov, 8, 2023

It remains to be seen if the trust fund will perform at the high end of investment return estimates ($80 million), and the roller coaster ride that is the stock market is sure to be filled with peaks and valleys moving forward. But for now, the railway board can and should take a bow.

Opinion and Engagement Editor Kevin S. Aldridge can be reached at kaldridge@enquirer.com. X, formerly known as Twitter: @kevaldrid. You can message him with any nominations for handshakes or headshakes.

Kevin S. Aldridge is the Opinion and Engagement editor for the The Enquirer.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati Southern Railway Board being good stewards of trust fund
Israel must immediately halt its military operations in the area of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, the United Nations top court ruled Friday.

The ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) marks a major condemnation of how Israel is conducting its war against Hamas in Gaza but also leaves open whether the ruling can be enforced.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to keep up the military operation to achieve complete victory over Hamas.

Judges on the court voted 13-2 for Israel to Immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.

The case at the ICJ was brought by South Africa, accusing Israel of carrying out genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, and appealed to the court to implement more stringent measures to block Israels military operations.

The court focused its ruling on the southern Gazan city of Rafah, which sits on the border with Egypt and is the epicenter of a nearly two-week military campaign being carried out by Israel.

Israel said its military operations are focused on rooting out the last four battalions of Hamass conventional army, and searching for hostages  alive or dead  being held in Rafah.

But the majority of the international community has raised urgent alarm that any military operation poses a dire threat to the more than 1 million Palestinians sheltering in the small, dense, southern-city.

The court described as exceptionally grave new evacuation orders for an estimated 800,000 Palestinians in Rafah.

The ICJ, in its ruling, also voted 13-2 for Israel to open the Rafah crossing [with Egypt] for unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

The court further is calling on Israel to ensure the unimpeded access to the Gaza Strip for any investigative bodies and fact-finding missions to investigate allegations of genocide.

The ruling by the ICJ marks a significant statement of international condemnation against a democratic country with a robust, independent judiciary. Still, the court has limited ability to enforce its ruling and Israel is unlikely to adhere to the courts order.

Netanyahu has said that military pressure on Hamas is the only way to achieve complete victory and restore security after the groups Oct. 7 attack against Israel, when Hamas fighters killed an estimated 1,200 people in southern Israel, the majority civilians, and took more than 250 people hostage. An estimated 125 people are still being held by the group in Gaza.

As ICJ judges in The Hague deliberate in comfort and return to their families, 125 hostages languish in tunnels. Israel will not cease the war until our hostages are brought back home and Hamas is completely defeated, Danny Danon, Israels former ambassador to the United Nations, posted on the social platform X.

Israel launched its war against Hamas, called Operation Iron Swords, nearly eight months ago, shortly after Oct. 7. The war has caused widespread devastation to the strip, with an estimated 30,000 Palestinians killed  the majority women and children. Israel says 13,000 Hamas fighters are among those killed. The United Nations has said famine is present in parts of the strip, and the population is suffering from mass starvation, disease, and displacement.

Mediation efforts by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar to broker a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas  to secure the release of hostages and increase humanitarian deliveries into Gaza  has yet to succeed.

Updated at 10:13 a.m. ET

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Top UN court orders Israel to halt military offensive in Rafah, though Israel is unlikely to comply

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP)  The United Nations' top court ordered Israel on Friday to immediately halt its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, but stopped short of ordering a cease-fire for the enclave. Although Israel is unlikely to comply with the order, it will ratchet up the pressure on the increasingly isolated country.

Criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza has been growing, particularly since it turned its focus to Rafah. This week alone, three European countries announced they would recognize a Palestinian state, and the chief prosecutor for another international court requested arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, along with Hamas officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also under some pressure at home to end the war, which was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 people, most civilians, and taking roughly 250 hostage. Thousands of Israelis have joined weekly demonstrations calling on the government to reach a deal to bring the hostages home, fearing time is running out.

The charges of genocide brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice in the Hague are false, outrageous and morally repugnant, Netanyahus government said in response to the ruling, maintaining its position that the military hasn't and won't target civilians.

South Africa was able to bring its case because it and Israel are signatories to the U.N.'s Genocide Convention, which includes a clause allowing the court to settle disputes over it.

Although the ruling is a blow to Israel's international standing, the court doesn't have a police force to enforce its orders. In another case on its docket, Russia has ignored the court's 2022 order to halt its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The sharply focused decision sent a three-pronged message to Israel, ordering a halt to the Rafah offensive, access to Gaza for war crimes investigators, and a big and immediate increase of humanitarian aid to the region, parts of which are enduring famine.

Rafah is in the southernmost part of the Gaza Strip, on the border with Egypt, and over 1 million people sought refuge there in recent months after fleeing fighting elsewhere, with many of them living in teeming tent camps. Israel has been vowing for months to invade Rafah, saying it was Hamas last major stronghold, even as several allies warned that an all-out assault would spell disaster.

Israel started issuing evacuation orders about two weeks ago as it began operations on the edge of the city. Since then, the army says an estimated 1 million people have left as forces press deeper inside.

Rafah is also home to a critical crossing for aid, and the U.N. says the flow of aid reaching it has plunged since the incursion began, though commercial trucking has continued to enter Gaza.

The court ordered Israel to keep the Rafah crossing open, saying the humanitarian situation is now to be characterized as disastrous.

This legally binding and very specific ruling leaves Israel with very little wiggle room, said Reed Brody, a veteran human rights lawyer and prosecutor.

Benny Gantz, a popular centrist member of Netanyahu's war cabinet, appeared to indicate that Israel would not change its course regarding Rafah.

The State of Israel is committed to continue fighting to return its hostages and promise the security of its citizens  wherever and whenever necessary  including in Rafah, he said.

"We will continue operating in accordance with international law wherever we might operate, while safeguarding to the best extent possible the civilian population. Not because of the ICJ, but because of who we are and the values we stand for.

Balkees Jarrah, associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, said the courts order underscored the perilous situation of Palestinians in Gaza, but warned that it could be ignored if the international community doesn't use whatever leverage it can on Israel.

The ICJs decision opens up the possibility for relief, but only if governments use their leverage, including through arms embargoes and targeted sanctions, to press Israel to urgently enforce the courts measures, Jarrah said.

The courts president, Nawaf Salam, read out the ruling as a small group of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside.

Fears the court expressed earlier this year about an operation in Rafah have materialized, the ruling said, and Israel must immediately halt its military offensive in the city and anything else that might result in conditions that could cause the physical destruction in whole or in part of Palestinians there.

But the ruling didn't call for a full cease-fire throughout Gaza, as South Africa, which has historic ties to the Palestinian people and brought the case, requested last week.

South Africa's foreign minister, Naledi Pandor, said the country's allegation that a genocide is underway is getting stronger and stronger by the day.

We are really pleased that the court has given very serious consideration to the matters that we put before it and has affirmed that an urgent decision is needed from the court to pause this onslaught against innocent Palestinian people, she told South African state broadcaster SABC, adding that it's now up to the U.N. Security Council to determine how to protect the Palestinians.

The cease-fire request is part of a case accusing Israel of committing genocide during its Gaza campaign. Israel vehemently denies the allegations. The case will take years to resolve, but South Africa wants interim orders to protect Palestinians while the legal wrangling continues.

The court ruled Friday that Israel must ensure access for any fact-finding or investigative mission sent by the U.N. to investigate the genocide allegations.

At public hearings last week at the International Court of Justice, South Africa's ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, urged the panel of 15 international judges to order Israel to totally and unconditionally withdraw from the Gaza Strip.

The court has already found that Israel's military operations pose a real and imminent risk to the Palestinian people.

Israels offensive has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which doesn't distinguish between combatants and civilians. The operation has obliterated entire neighborhoods, sent hundreds of thousands of people fleeing their homes, and pushed parts of the territory into famine.

This may well be the last chance for the court to act, Irish lawyer Blinne Ni Ghralaigh, who is part of South Africas legal team, told judges last week.

In January, ICJ judges ordered Israel to do all it could to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza, but the panel stopped short of ordering an end to the military offensive. In a second order in March, the court said Israel must take measures to improve the humanitarian situation.

The ICJ rules in disputes between nations. A few kilometers (miles) away, the International Criminal Court files charges against individuals it considers most responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

On Monday, the ICC's chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, said he has asked ICC judges to approve arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and three top Hamas leaders  Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif and Ismail Haniyeh  of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip and Israel.

___

This story was updated to correct that the International Criminal Court is not a U.N. court.

___

Associated Press reporters Gerald Imray in Cape Town, South Africa, and Julia Frankel in Jerusalem contributed. ___

Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
A county school board member who also serves as a volunteer mentor with a local nonprofit social services organization has been honored by the Town of Palm Beach United Way.

Marcia Andrews, a longtime volunteer with United Way partner Take Stock in Children and the District 6 representative for the School District of Palm Beach County, received the annual Nettie Finkle Award for outstanding volunteerism and community service May 2 in a ceremony at The Breakers.

Andrews was honored during the Town of Palm Beach United Way's 79th annual meeting.

Related: Town of Palm Beach United Way draws 137 volunteers to help with annual distribution process

"I am honored to receive the 2024 Town of Palm Beach United Way's prestigious Nettie Finkle Award," Andrews told the Daily News. "I am grateful to be recognized for my work with Take Stock in Children. Mentoring and assisting the youth to become college and career-ready is truly fulfilling for me."

Palm Beach Mayor Danielle Moore introduced Andrews as the winner of the Finkle Award, which honors an individual who "exemplifies volunteerism and whose commitment to bringing hope, promise and opportunity into the lives of others has left a lasting, positive impact on a person, group or community at large."

Andrews, who is serving her fourth term as a school board member, has been a volunteer mentor with Take Stock in Children for 12 years, primarily mentoring young men and women who live in the communities of Belle Glade and Pahokee.

Missy Agnello, from left, Mayor Danielle Moore and Betsy Turner attend the Town of Palm Beach United Way's 79th annual meeting May 2 at The Breakers.

Her educational background spans 48 years, according to the school district's website, and she holds leadership roles in education, community, social, and civic organizations.

Andrews said she was grateful for the Town of Palm Beach United Way's donation of $2,000 in her honor to Take Stock in Children.

"I want to express my gratitude to the Town of Palm Beach United Way for their ongoing support," she said.

Marcia Andrews (center) with her husband, Robert (left), and Bill Tiefel at the Town of Palm Beach United Way's 79th annual meeting May 2, at which she received the organization's Nettie Finkle Award.

The Town of Palm Beach United Way's annual event drew more than 150 people to The Breakers, including town officials, town staff, residents and philanthropists.

"It has been another fantastic year, and it's only possible because of the phenomenal support we get from our local Palm Beach community," Board Chair Bill Tiefel told guests. "From businesses and civic groups to individuals and community leaders, we are fortunate to have a loyal donor base interested in making an impact in the community in which they live and work."

In addition to honoring Andrews during the event, the Town of Palm Beach United Way also announced it had raised more than $6.3 million toward its goal of $6.5 million. The organization's fundraising campaign ends June 30.

Other announcements included:

The Tocqueville Campaign, co-chaired by Bob Wright, Kimberly Goodwin and Josephine Kalisman, has raised 79% of the United Way's overall campaign total.

The annual Turkey Trot 5K race sponsored by Town of Palm Beach United Way provided over 4,662 meals to clients at 24 nonprofit agencies in Palm Beach County.

Beginning July 1, Town of Palm Beach United Way will be funding 68 programs at 37 nonprofit agencies in Palm Beach County, serving 168,000 men, women and children.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Palm Beach County has been approved as a new Town of Palm Beach United Way partner agency.

Twelve new members will be joining the Board of Trustees next season. They are: David Blue, Carrie Bradburn, Natalie Emerson, Gaye Engel, Liz Feuer, Nicki Harris, Fran Levy, Sara Maggio, Ed Pantzer, John Tatooles, Wendy Topkis, and Adolfo Zaralegui. All will serve three-year terms.

For information on the Town of Palm Beach United Way, visit www.palmbeachunitedway.org/.

Jodie Wagner is a journalist at the Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at jwagner@pbdailynews.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: School board member Marcia Andrews honored by Palm Beach United Way
Tayy Dior Thomas, a 17-year-old transgender girl, was shot to death May 7 in Mobile, Ala., and the suspect is a man who her family says she had been dating.

Police found her body about 3:30 a.m. in the front yard of a home after responding to a report of shots fired in the area, according to TV station WALA. A vehicle had crashed into the house as well.

Police arrested Carl Washington Jr., 20. He is charged with murder. He pleaded not guilty this week and was denied bond.

Most news reports, including the WALA one, misgendered and deadnamed Thomas, but her family confirmed her name and trans identity to the Human Rights Campaign. The family told HRC that Thomas and Washington had been dating for about a year, and they believe Washington was afraid their relationship would become known to others.

By all accounts, Tayy was a beautiful soul deeply loved by her family, friends, and community, Tori Cooper, director of community engagement for HRCs Transgender Justice Initiative, said in a press release. She had so much life ahead of her, and it is heartbreaking that that potential was ripped away so violently by someone she was supposed to be able to trust. In 2015, we found that over half of all transgender and nonbinary adults were victims of intimate partner violence. So far, in 2024, nearly half of all victims of fatal violence with a known killer were killed by a romantic or sexual partner, friend, or family member. Trans people should be able to trust that the people in their lives will help protect them from this violence, not cause it.

Tayy was shy but so fearless and had natural leadership ability, her grandmother told HRC. She always had a huge smile on her face showing her dimples, her grandmother added.

In speaking with Tayys family, it is clear how deeply she was loved and cared for, Carmarion Anderson, HRCs Alabama state director, said in the release. Her death is a massive loss for everyone who had the privilege of knowing her, and for those who had not yet had the chance to do so. We join Tayys family in their fight for justice, including in their call to have her murder be classified as a hate crime. So far, police and prosecutors have not characterized it as such. Alabama's hate-crime law does not cover crimes motivated by the victim's sexual orientation or gender identity, but the suspect could be prosecuted under federal law, which does.

Thomas is survived by her grandmother, her mother, four siblings including a twin brother, and many extended family members. The family has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for funeral expenses.
A report by the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies (CEERT) finds that new power line projects and faster permitting could make the San Joaquin Valley the center of solar power in California, and help residents breathe a little easier.

According to the report, the state needs to speed up construction of power lines to achieve its goals of adding more than 85 gigawatts of clean energy by 2034 (enough to power 64 million homes or fully charge 765,000 electric vehicles).

The problem is the average time for the review and approval of a single transmission project in California is 836 days, more than two years.

CEERT and a coalition of advocates are calling on Gov. Newsom and the California Independent Systems Operator (CAISO), the entity that oversees 80% of the states electricity flow and manages its power lines, to accelerate permitting and decrease the backlog of projects waiting for approval.

Failing to do so will jeopardize Californias transition to a zero-carbon economy, according to advocates.

This issue is of particular concern in the Central Valley, which suffers from some of the worst air quality in the nation, and is expected to experience nearly double the amount of triple digit heat days by 2050. More heat waves and less capacity for clean energy on clogged power lines can spell disaster for residents of the San Joaquin Valley.

Power outages can be deadly, leaving residents without cooling or medical equipment. And the increased electricity demand for cooling means that the state will flip on more fossil fuel power plants, which spreads more air pollution and heat trapping gasses.

Making matters worse, clogged or insufficient power lines also means that the solar energy produced in the Central Valley is more likely to be shut off and wasted, known as curtailment. The report points out that Fresno is currently home to nearly a quarter of the entire states clean energy curtailment.

Fittingly, Fresno also has the most interconnection requests for solar and battery storage projects of anywhere in the state. These critical clean energy projects could be significantly delayed if the state does not act.

Fortunately the Central Valleys agricultural history can peacefully coexist with a clean energy future. The report recommends prioritizing land not suitable for farming to site solar and battery projects, and previous reports have cited research from UC Davis which finds that solar and food harvesting can be successfully co-located (known as agrivoltaics).

While preserving agricultural land is a priority, extreme heat and drought will threaten the industry in the long term. New transmission and clean energy projects in the region can provide good paying jobs for farmworkers who want to make the transition.

Huron Mayor Rey Leon said the report, along with years of work on the ground by advocates and community members, is creating a new economic vision for the San Joaquin Valley.

Our regions proud agricultural heritage and hardworking farmworkers help feed the world. Now is the time to invest in a future that will bring more prosperity to the region and help power the clean energy revolution while we empower the communities that have made that possible.

The report closes with a set of recommendations, including that priority for transmission wires and planning should be in the San Joaquin Valley, where significant quantities of solar and battery projects are expected to be developed. It also calls for community involvement in the planning process, to ensure siting of projects is equitable and benefits all residents.

With more than 55% of residents in the San Joaquin Valley living in disadvantaged communities, the reports authors stress that they must be the first to benefit from clean energy transmission via community benefit agreements.
Travelers rejoice over 1st Phoenix-Paris nonstop flight: 'I'm going to be so spoiled'

The Valley of the Sun now has a nonstop flight to the City of Light.

Air Frances Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down on the runway at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for the first time at about 12:15 p.m. Thursday, May 23.

Just after 2:30 p.m., Air France Flight 69 took off with passengers bound for Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. It was the first Phoenix to Paris nonstop flight in Sky Harbor Airport history.

Air France Flight 68, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner landed at 12:25 PM, this was the first non-stop flight from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on May 23, 2024.

That flight was 97% full, said Boaz Hulsman, Air France vice president of commercial operations in North America. Hulsman said the launch of the new nonstop route was "long overdue."

Air France will fly the Phoenix-Paris route three times a week. Here's what to know about the flight's first day.

Is there a direct flight from Phoenix to France?

There is now.

Air France will operate nonstop flights from Phoenix to Paris, France, via Charles de Gaulle Airport three times weekly. Phoenix is the 17th U.S. destination the airline serves.

The airline recently announced it will continue offering the Phoenix-Paris flights into winter 2025.

Upon hearing from Hulsman that the first Phoenix-Paris flight was 97% full, Phoenix Aviation Services Director Chad Makovsky said he thought it made the case for Air France to eventually offer daily flights.

What days does Air France fly from Phoenix to Paris?

Air France will operate its Paris flights from Phoenix on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Flights leave Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport at 2:10 p.m. Arizona time and arrive in Paris at 9:15 a.m. Central European Time the next day. Flights to Phoenix leave Paris at 10:10 a.m. CET and arrive at Sky Harbor at 12:10 p.m. Arizona time.

The Boeing 787-9 plane used for the flights has 30 business class seats, 21 premium economy seats and 228 economy seats, according to Air France.

What passengers said about the new Phoenix-Paris flight

Passengers who flew on the inaugural flight included a mix of first-time travelers and people revisiting France for the first time in many years. Some were thrilled about how the new Phoenix-Paris nonstop eliminates layovers and cuts their travel time  10 hours to Paris and 11 hours for the return flight.

Frederick Dormigny, who lived in Paris for 17 years and is now a metro Phoenix resident, traveled on the Air France flight as part of a larger trip to France and Poland. The trip is his first to Paris in two decades; when traveling from Phoenix in the past, getting to Paris required layovers in Atlanta, Los Angeles or Newark, New Jersey.

"It costs a little bit more, but you get there in 10 hours," he said. "If you go on a big vacation, it's 21 hours (round trip) versus 40 hours."

Marlene Simmons, a flight attendant for Air France in the early 1960s, traveled with her neighbor Joy Leach on the first flight. This trip marked Leach's first time going to Paris. The women, both residents of Sonoita, also planned to visit Luxembourg and Poland.

They found the flight special for different reasons. For Simmons, it was reconnecting with a beloved destination she hadn't visited in 40 years; for Leach, it was knowing her first visit to Paris would be on the first nonstop flight there from Phoenix.

"I'm going to be so spoiled," Leach said. "I hear all these stories about how it's 16 hours to (arrive in) France, and I'm going to be there in 10 hours. It's a bonus we get to be on the first nonstop flight from Phoenix."

Phoenix to Germany flights: Condor Airlines unveils bigger plane with more amenities for 2024

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist whos covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republics consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at Michael.Salerno@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @salerno_phx.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Air France new Phoenix-Paris flight takes off at Sky Harbor Airport
WELLINGTON, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Although New Zealand's milk powder exports to China have fallen recently, mainly quantity driven, China has still remained as New Zealand's top milk powder destination.

Milk powder exports to China increased 987 percent in value, and 1,004 percent in quantity in the year ended April 2024, compared with the year ended April 2008, the statistics department Stats NZ said on Friday.

In the year ended April 2024, 30 percent of New Zealand's milk powder exports were sent to China, said Stats NZ international trade manager Alasdair Allen.

The signing of the free trade agreement with China in 2008 accelerated exports to China, Allen said.

Milk powder exports were valued at 9.7 billion NZ dollars (5.91 billion U.S. dollars) in the year ended April 2024, making up 14 percent of the total value of New Zealand exports, making it the country's largest export commodity, Stats NZ said.

Since the year ended April 2008, New Zealand's annual milk powder export values have increased 109 percent, and quantities have increased 112 percent, averaged 1.8 billion kg per year, it said, adding the country's milk powder was exported to over 100 countries in the year ended April 2024.

Although New Zealand's milk powder export values have been increasing, dairy cattle numbers have been gradually decreasing since 2014, Allen said. 
New trial set for February, again alleging Fortenberry lied to FBI after 2016 fundraiser

U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, flanked by his wife and other family members, speaks to reporters after the 2022 guilty verdicts. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Former U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry has pleaded not guilty once again to federal charges alleging he lied to FBI agents about illegal foreign contributions to his 2016 campaign.

Fortenberry appeared before a Washington, D.C., court Thursday. His new trial scheduled for February. On May 8, a grand jury in the district refiled charges against the former Nebraska congressman after a federal appeals court last year overturned his three felony convictions.

The court ruled prosecutors wrongly pursued the case in California, where the questionable fundraiser took place and where Fortenberry received $30,000 via a brown paper bag from a foreign billionaire.

But it wasnt where the congressman allegedly lied during 2019 conversations with federal investigators, at his Lincoln home and in his lawyers office in D.C.

A deadline passed earlier this year to request a reconsideration of the appeals court decision, which opened the door for Fortenberry to be charged in Washington, D.C., or Nebraska. The statute of limitations has run out to charge the former congressman in the Cornhusker State.

A spokesperson for Fortenberry described the charges as political and overzealous, alleging prosecutors were dragging Jeff Fortenberry around the country to face one trial after another until it can secure a conviction that  holds up.

The post New trial set for February, again alleging Fortenberry lied to FBI after 2016 fundraiser appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
President of Trinity High School, Dr. Robert Mullen, hands out diplomas at the Trinity High School graduation Sunday, held at Bellarmine University. May 19, 2024

Trinity High School President Rob Mullen is stepping down from his leadership position after 25 years.

Mullen will continue as president for the 2024-2025 school year before assuming a new role as vice president for mission, with a focus on school fundraising, according to the Trinity High School website. A search for the next president has begun with hopes of securing one early in 2025.

Trinity is in a very strong position and effectuating a smooth transition to my successor will sustain the momentum we are enjoying, Mullen said. We have some significant initiatives underway and I look forward to helping see those to completion.

Mullen's resignation as president goes into effect next June. The 1977 Trinity graduate has held a multiple of positions at the school during the past 40-plus years, and wanted to step down at a time that was most appropriate for the school, said Mike Paradis, chair of the Trinity High School Board.

Rob has played a role in our preparation, Paradis said. He wanted to ensure that upon his decision to step down the school was on the strongest footing possible academically, financially and operationally. Thankfully, that is where we are today.

The search committee for the 2025-2026 school year is comprised of members of the Trinity High School Board and Trinity High School Foundation. They are initially seeking input from various Trinity stakeholders regarding the most important qualities for the next president.

Kentucky High Schools Oldham County High School teacher allegedly said he 'would become the next school shooter'

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Trinity High School has started search for new president
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The News

The US and Kenya will collaborate on building low-carbon data centers and other green tech, President Joe Biden and his counterpart William Ruto said during the Kenyan leaders state visit to Washington this week.

Under a new climate and clean energy industrial partnership, the countries will facilitate new investments from the private sector and development banks to convert Kenyas large supply of clean electricity into climate-friendly exports. While the announcement didnt include any significant new funding from the US, it marks a big political win for Ruto, who has presented himself as Africas leading climate champion and sought to reframe climate finance as less about aid and more about investment. Ruto also used the White House this week as a backdrop to sign a $1 billion deal with Microsoft and the United Arab Emirates-based artificial-intelligence company G42 to build a new low-carbon data center outside Nairobi.

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Tims view

Rutos key insight has been to pitch Kenya as a destination for energy-intensive tech investments at a time when utilities in the US and Europe are starting to panic about exploding power demand for electric vehicles and data centers. But making good on his vision of Kenya as a clean tech powerhouse will test the limits of the countrys delicate grid and could leave Kenyans with less reliable power and higher electric bills.

While the US and Europe struggle to cut greenhouse gas emissions from the power grids, Kenya is already far ahead  between hydropower dams, geothermal energy, and onshore wind, 90% of the countrys power is zero-carbon, making it one of the worlds cleanest grids. The government estimates theres enough untapped geothermal still available (the country sits on a tectonic divide) to power Kenya five times over. Historically, there hasnt been much for it to do with all that power apart from its own domestic uses, because of the extreme cost and complexity of building international grid networks.

But a number of new ways are emerging for clean power to be effectively exported in different forms. Build a huge data center and clean power gets converted into bytes, invaluable for tech companies like Microsoft trying to leverage energy-hungry AI without the big carbon footprint. Build electrolyzers and convert clean power into green hydrogen, which can be turned into liquid ammonia and shipped to factories in Europe or Asia to replace natural gas. Build machines to suck carbon from the atmosphere, run them on clean power, and sell expensive carbon removal credits to emissions-intensive companies abroad. Kenya is pursuing all of the above. The new White House agreement also cites EV supply chains, suggesting Kenya could use its clean power for battery manufacturing as the US scrambles to diversify its EV hardware supplies away from China.

Still, the thesis of bringing all this infrastructure [to Kenya] is pretty flawed, said Rose Mutiso, research director at the think tank Energy for Growth Hub. Kenyan domestic power prices are high, and blackouts are common. Thats because the countrys grid hasnt evolved sufficiently to keep up with the heavy penetration of variable renewables, Mutiso said, meaning that even though the on-paper power generation capacity appears to meet or exceed the countrys needs, in practice power is often not sufficiently available in the right time and place. The byzantine structure of the countrys power market also often dispatches higher-cost wind power ahead of low-cost geothermal, she said.

The upshot is that without much more investment in the grid and in utility-scale batteries, deep-pocketed tech companies could effectively be pitted against locals for affordable, reliable power. As the new US-Kenya energy partnership takes shape, Mutiso said, its essential to include transparent reporting standards on power contracts, and other steps to ensure most of the benefits actually go to average Kenyans and not to the countrys elites or foreign investors.

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Room for Disagreement

One reason for Rutos big push on climate has nothing to do with emissions or tech investment. Climate is a big platform for him to switch his personal narrative from global pariah to global celebrity, Mutiso said, referring to Rutos 2010 prosecution by the International Criminal Court on charges that he helped organize deadly riots following Kenyas 2007 presidential election. Those charges were dropped in 2016.

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The View From Nairobi

The climate finance action will shift from Washington back to Nairobi next week, when the African Development Bank holds its annual meeting. While the AfDB has pushed hard to raise more climate adaptation funding for the continent, some watchdogs say it still has done little to curb its own lending to fossil fuel production.

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Trump again claims he could have stopped Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine

Donald Trump again claimed Russia would not have launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine if he had won a second term in office.

Speaking during his first rally in New York in eight years on May 23, the former president also said he would have prevented Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel and the ensuing war in Gaza that followed.

Trump is the presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 U.S. presidential election, going up against incumbent President Joe Biden. He spoke in Crotona Park in the Bronx in New York City, which Biden won in 2020 with 68% of the vote.

In a carnival-like atmosphere and in front of a crowd with a significant showing of pro-Israel supporters, Trump focused heavily on his time as a businessman in New York City and the economy, barely mentioning foreign policy.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump held his first rally in New York in eight years on May 23.



The U.S. will hold a presidential election in November, pinning Trump against incumbent President Joe Biden. pic.twitter.com/NkC2AeZVOQ  The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) May 24, 2024

When he did briefly, he took aim at Bidens term in office, describing the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan as "the most embarrassing day in the history of our country."

"It's probably a reason, a piece of it, why Russia went into Ukraine. They said 'these people are incompetent, well go in,'" he said.

"So Russia going into Ukraine would never have happened, none of this stuff you see would have happened.

"Israel would have never happened, the attack on October 7th."

Trump has said he would not commit to providing Ukraine with defense assistance if he won the 2024 election. Trump's sway over the party contributed to the six-month deadlock of the $61 billion in U.S. aid for Ukraine.

He also described Russian President Vladimir Putin's move to launch the full-scale invasion of Ukraine as "genius" and "savvy" in 2022.

Trump has repeatedly claimed he could stop the war in Ukraine "in 24 hours" though he has never publicly stated how he would do this.

The Washington Post wrote on April 7, citing anonymous sources, that Trump had privately said he could end it by pressuring Ukraine to cede Crimea and Donbas to Moscow.

According to the Washington Post, Trump also said he believes that both Moscow and Kyiv "want to save face, they want a way out," claiming that Ukrainians in Russian-occupied territories would not object to being part of Russia.

"If the deal and the idea is simply to give our territories, then it is very primitive," President Volodymyr Zelensky said in response.

Owen Racer contributed reporting to this article.

Read also: Russias latest offensive into Kharkiv Oblast is stretching Ukrainian defenses

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
During Thursday's rally in the Bronx  a district that Donald Trump lost to President Biden in 2020 by 68 points  Trump attempted to rectify his previous failure by appealing to Black and Hispanic voters, claiming in his speech that hed win New York state in the 2024 presidential election.

Joe Biden has a better chance winning Alabama than Donald Trump has winning New York, David Levinthal, the editor-in-chief of Raw Story, said to CNN's Jessica Dean on a panel on Thursday, discussing the Bronx rally.

Levinthal explained why Trump tried to reason with certain voters  because in swing states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, gaining the votes of Black and Hispanic individuals who are disillusioned and disaffected with the Biden administration policies can make all the difference.

But how many people actually attended this rally that Trump seems to be banking on?

As is his fashion, the former president took to Truth Social to brag about numbers that may or may not be real, writing, THIS WAS A BIG, IMPORTANT, AND EVEN STARTLING EVENT, AND YET MUCH OF THE LAMESTREAM NETWORK MEDIA REFUSED TO COVER IT . . . Gee, I wonder why???

The truth seems to be a bit skewed from Trumps version. A local New York evening news report by Jim Dolan on ABC7 revealed just how many, or how few, were there. Not to mention the fact that there were plenty of protesters mixed in.

First of all, hes a big fat bigot and he just doesnt have any love in his heart for anyone  anyone of color, anyone whos in the LGBTQ+ community, one protester told Dolan. Hes a crook, a liar, and a cheat. And he tried to make money off people. And thats what hes doing right now, said a second protestor.

According to Dolan's reporting, those who were in attendance didnt amount to a lot, judging by the b-roll aired later that evening. What's more, most individuals in the crowd were not even from the Bronx.

When Dolan featured a pro-Trump rally-goer, it turned out he was from Queens.

Donald Trump can now say he held a rally in the South Bronx, home to immigrants and minority communities, and that it was well attended, Dolan said. Its just not clear that the people who attended were from the Bronx. The campaign controlled who got in, and the campaign, of course, picked only supporters.
Former President Donald Trump ratcheted up his anti-immigrant rhetoric at a rally in the South Bronx, where he claimed, without evidence, that migrants coming to the U.S. are forming an "army."

The comments are part of the dark narrative Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, is advancing on the 2024 campaign trial that what is occurring at the southern border amounts to an invasion.

With New York as his backdrop, a city that's reckoned with housing a surge of migrants seeking asylum in recent years, Trump continued to demonize immigrants.

"They come from Africa. They come from Asia. They come from all over the world. They come from the Middle East, Yemen ... Large numbers of people are coming in from China," he said. "And if you look at these people, did you see them? They are physically fit. Theyre 19 to 25. Almost everyone is a male, and they look like fighting age."

"I think they're building an army ... they want to get us from within," he said.

PHOTO: Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump holds a campaign rally at Crotona Park in the Bronx, May 23, 2024, in New York. (Brendan Mcdermid/Reuters)

"They're building something," Trump repeated. "They have something in mind. We're gonna end all of that stuff."

Trump went on to reiterate his threat to lead the largest criminal deportation operation in our country's history because this situation is unsustainable." Though experts told ABC News his plan would be extremely difficult to carry out, and would have adverse consequences on the nation if it were to be implemented.

MORE: Trump again vows to deport millions of migrants. Could he really do it?

The comments prompted the crowd to begin chanting, "Send them back."

Trump previously made similar comments specifically about migrants from China, telling conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt last month they, too, were "probably building an army." Again, he didn't provide any evidence to back up his claim.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in the south Bronx, May. 23, 2024, in New York. (Yuki Iwamura/AP)

Trump at his campaign rally also continued to claim, without evidence, that many migrants are coming from the "jails" and "mental institutions" of other nations and are committing a new category of "migrant crime."

But studies have shown U.S.-born citizens more likely to be arrested for violent crimes.

MORE: No, migrants are not driving a surge in violent crime as Trump claims

Trump's rally comments came hours after lawmakers on Capitol Hill held a showdown vote on border security, with the Senate again failing to advance a package negotiated earlier this year by a bipartisan group of lawmakers.

The bill was largely quashed by Trump, who told Republicans earlier this year not to accept it -- prompting Democrats to accuse conservative lawmakers of caring more about appeasing Trump than fixing issues within the immigration system.

"By blocking the bipartisan border agreement, Republicans in Congress said no to legislation that would hire more Border Patrol Agents, add more immigration judges and asylum officers to process cases in months and not years," President Joe Biden said in a statement. "They said no to new technology to detect and stop fentanyl from entering the United States, and no to resources to go after drug traffickers. They rejected an agreement that would give me, as President, a new emergency authority to temporarily shut down the border when the system is overwhelmed."

ABC News' Lalee Ibssa, Kelsey Walsh and Soorin Kim contributed to this report.

Trump continues to demonize migrants, falsely claims they're 'building an army' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
During a rally in Hialeah last fall, Donald Trump regaled supporters with a pledge to undertake the largest domestic deportation operation in American history if they helped put him back in the White House.

The comment, which has become a cornerstone of Trumps agenda for a second term in Washington, was met with a roar of applause, as supporters in the majority-immigrant city cheered the former presidents pledge to end what he has declared an invasion by migrants entering and settling in the United States illegally.

Even in the Capital of the Americas, where most of the population was born outside the U.S., Trumps hardline immigration platform has struck a chord.

But experts, activists and immigrants, both documented and undocumented, told the Miami Herald that the impact of an effort to pull a key section of the labor force out of the country en masse would likely have far-reaching consequences for the economy, making everyday life harder for American citizens across the country  and especially in Miami-Dade County.

The Department of Homeland Security estimates that Florida had the third-largest population of undocumented immigrants in the country, home to about 590,000 undocumented immigrants in 2022. The Pew Research Center, has estimated that number to be closer to 900,000, finding that more than 400,000 were likely living in South Florida around the time that Trump won the 2016 election.

If you were to deport half a million people from Florida and remove them from the Floridian economy that would undoubtedly create a recession in the state, said Tarek Hassan, an economics professor at Boston University who has conducted in-depth research about how immigrants contribute to U.S. development and growth.

A mass deportation campaign would be logistically difficult to carry out, hamstrung by federal laws and the requirement that countries of origin accept immigrants on deportation flights.

Workers seen inserting reinforcing steel cage for a new pier at the core of the SR 836/I-395/I-95 Interchange, as part of the I-395/SR 836/I-95 Design-Build Project, on Wednesday August 03, 2022.

But Trumps agenda would likely exacerbate the gap in Floridas job market, which has 53 available workers for every 100 open positions, according to an analysis from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. As a result, experts believe that the labor pool for Floridas agriculture sector and its lucrative tourism industry would suffer. Construction projects  ranging from high-end and commercial builds to smaller undertakings like roof repairs  would become both more expensive and slower to complete.

There would be a real slowdown in construction activity, said Edward Murray, assistant director at FIUs Jorge M. Perez Metropolitan Center, noting that development has been driving the local economy for years.

An analysis by Miami-Dade Countys Office of New Americans found that immigrants represent over half the working population in the county, and the majority of workers in several essential industries, such as manufacturing, agriculture, food manufacturing and construction. They are 27.8% more likely to be of working age or employed than their U.S.-born counterparts, the study found.

Its sad how the Latino community, including here in Miami, applaud every time [Trump] opens his mouth to offend and to threaten and discriminate against the undocumented, knowing that, here in Florida, we are very essential to maintain the economy, said Bertha Sanles, a South Florida immigrant-rights activists who is herself undocumented. And thats how it is at the national level.

Stan Veuger, a senior fellow in economic policy at the center-right think tank American Enterprise Institute, said that a mass deportation program would likely have a devastating impact for certain industries, like agriculture, as well as for the U.S. economy as a whole.

The cons dramatically overwhelm the pros, even if you think about it in narrow economic terms, he said. Agricultural employment is a good example, because itll very likely be the case that a lot of those firms wouldnt be able to operate at all without undocumented workers.

More broadly, he said, removing so many millions of people from the U.S. would lead to a big drop in demand for products and services.

Youll have retail stores, service providers who depend on these customers, Veuger said. Those will also be affected.

The largest deportation operation in American history

Despite widespread concerns that an aggressive immigration agenda would have negative consequences for the economy, Trump has promised an immigration enforcement campaign more sweeping than the agenda he carried out from the White House from 2017 to 2021.

Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaigns national press secretary, told the Miami Herald that Trump intends to bring back all of his prior immigration policies and establish the largest deportation operation in American history.

In an interview with Time Magazine published last month, the former president discussed the details, saying he would rely heavily on local law enforcement agencies and the National Guard to carry out his orders. He noted that if they werent able to get the job done, he would turn to active-duty military to do the job. He did not rule out detention camps.

As President Trump has said, the millions of illegals Biden has resettled across America should not get comfortable because very soon they will be going home, Leavitt told the Herald.

The Department of Homeland Security estimates that there were roughly 11 million unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. as of January 2022  up from about 10.5 million at the same point in 2020. Most of those people  nearly 80%  have been in the country since before 2010, according to a report released in April.

Florida is economically extremely dynamic

Hassan, the BU economist, emphasized that immigrants dont take jobs away from people who are already here. Rather, they are generating other job opportunities by putting their earnings back into an economy where the total number of jobs has historically increased along with the population.

As soon as they enter the labor force and make some money, they also spend that money again. They buy groceries, go out to a restaurant, and theyre going to buy goods and services. By spending the money that they make, theyre essentially in small ways creating the equivalent of their own job in other places for someone else to take, said Hassan.

Hassan has found that immigrants also boost wages and growth. He and other researchers found that the addition of 12,000 migrants to a U.S. county boosts innovation by 32% and wages for the people already there by 5%.

Hassan noted that, while on average immigration is an economic boon, the people who most benefit at the county level of wage increase are residents who at least have a high school degree. Researchers found no effect on wages for people with less than a highschool diploma.

Florida is economically extremely dynamic and has been very dynamic for the last 10 years, he said, And a big reason for that is that its a major destination for immigrants when they arrive in the United States.

Hassan, in other research, has also found that immigrants benefit the economy long after they settle in the U.S. In another investigation, Hassan and his colleagues found that places that received immigration a century ago were better suited and more likely to receive investments from that origin country in the present day.

You see very clearly this effect in the long run, and you also see an economic comparative advantage, of places that have received migration from many different places. Theres not that many places in the world where you have a labor force that knows things about both Ireland and Bolivia, so U.S. companies are often in a position to make connections between faraway places, he said.

But he emphasized that todays share of the foreign-born population (13.9% in 2022) is roughly as high as it was in the late-19th century (13-15% between 1860-1920), raising important questions about the impact of recent migration into the U.S.

That hasnt been this high for several generations. So even though we document all these positive economic effects, its totally possible that there might be negative effects on other things that people care about, said Hassan.

Agriculture worker at a nursery in South Miami-Dade County photographed in Homestead on May 31, 2023.

Theyre doing the most menial jobs

Not everyone is convinced that Trumps plan would have an across-the-board negative impact.

Peter Dyga, the president and CEO of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Floridas East Coast chapter, said that, as far as the construction industry goes, the effects of a mass deportation program would only impact companies that hire undocumented workers.

To the extent that companies are doing that, its probably going to hurt them, Dyga said. Theyre the ones with access to this big pool of desperate and undocumented workers.

But Dyga said that companies that rely on unauthorized workers are already weighing on the industry. Those companies, he said, often pay low wages, making it harder for the people that do it right to compete in the market.

Quite frankly, my members  the people who join this organization  are having to compete against companies that arent following the rules, he said. Theyre probably paying subpar wages, and with insurance costs and workers comp, how are you supposed to compete?

Trump is tapping into frustrations with an unprecedented immigration surge, with border patrol agents having more than 2 million encounters with migrants at the southern border each of the last two government fiscal years.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed over 339,000 people from October 2020 through February 2024, a period that covers the tail-end of the Trump administration and stretches well into the Biden administration. ICE removed another 149,000 from the country until May 2023 under Title 42, a pandemic-era policy that allowed border agents to quickly expel immigrants.

So far, it appears that voters are buying what Trump is selling, both on the economy and on immigration. In Florida  Trumps adopted home  a CBS/YouGov poll this month found that a majority of the states voters believe Trumps policies would leave them better off financially.

Al Cardenas, the co-chair of the bipartisan American Business Immigration Coalition, said that Trumps promised deportations would leave a massive labor vacuum in the face of falling birth rates among U.S. citizens and further drive up food prices. He also noted that more workers will be needed as more and more aging Baby Boomers retire, leaving open jobs and requiring assistance in their old age.

Cardenas, a Cuban-American former chairman of the Florida Republican Party, told the Herald that the goal of policymakers should be comprehensive immigration reform that would extend work permits to people living in the U.S. without legal authorization to be here, particularly DACA-eligible people, agricultural and livestock workers, caregivers for the elderly, and people who have lived in the United States for a long time.

I dont know if the American people have woken up to the consequences of Donald Trumps words, he said. But if you think about it, you will realize that those words would only ruin the country as we know it.

Helen OBrien, Florida coordinator for 32BJ SEIU, a union that represents property service workers such as janitors and security officers, said that people might be too afraid to leave their houses and show up to work if Trump enacts his deportation policies. She questioned how a hypothetical Trump administration would enforce them in the first place in a place like Miami-Dade, where most residents were born outside of the United States.

I dont know how they are going to tell who is documented or not. Are they going to every ventanita, and everyone buying coffee and ask them for their papers? she said.

While the military, including the National Guard, has been used in the past to bolster border security, deploying troops to arrest, detain and remove unauthorized migrants living far away from the U.S.-Mexico border would likely run up against legal challenges.

Asked in his interview with Time whether he would override an 1878 law that bars federal troops from participating in civilian law enforcement, Trump suggested that the law didnt apply to undocumented migrants living in the U.S. because these arent civilians.

These are people that arent legally in our country, he said. This is an invasion of our country. An invasion like probably no country has ever seen before. Theyre coming in by the millions.

Mike Fernandez, a co-founder of the American Business Immigration Coalition and prominent South Florida businessman, recalled in an interview with the Herald that it was two undocumented people who took care of his dying mother last year.

He said that theres not only an economic cost to Trumps deportation proposal, but a human cost, as well.

Theyre doing the most menial jobs that most Americans do not want to do. In butcher shops, who are the guys in the back cleaning the fat off the beef? Its immigrants, mostly. Laundry services, hospital services These are people that are key to the economy. And they serve patients in hospitals and nursing homes and rehab facilities. Its not going to be a good place to do business in. Florida may likely lose its standing as the No. 1 growth state.
Trump met with build the wall chants as he goes on anti-migrant rant at Bronx rally

Donald Trump was met with chants of build the wall on Thursday evening as he rehashed his anti-immigrant rhetoric during a campaign rally in the Bronx.

Speaking in Crotona Park in the South Bronx  a Democratic stronghold with a large Hispanic and Black population  the former president baselessly sought to paint migrants from China, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and other nations as a threat to the United States.

In a particularly xenophobic moment, he baselessly claimed that migrants are building an army to attack the US from inside its borders.

You look at these people they are physically fit, theyre 19 to 25, almost everyone is a male, and they look like fighting age, he told the crowd of supporters.

I think theyre building an army. I think they want to get us from within. I think theyre building an army they have something in mind.

He also sought to connect record-level illegal migration to the economic hardship of Black and Hispanic voters, claiming, again without evidence, that migrants were taking jobs away from them.

Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in the Bronx borough of New York (AP)

We are not going to let these people come in and take our city away from us and take our country away, he said.

African Americans are getting slaughtered. Hispanic Americans are getting slaughtered, he claimed, blaming President Joe Bidens economic agenda for hurting minority voters.

He went on to promise to conduct the largest criminal deportation operation in our countrys history if hes re-elected in November  comments that were met with cheers and chants of build the wall and send them back from his crowd of supporters.

His comments mark the latest anti-immigrant rhetoric from the former president  rhetoric that has drawn comparisons to Adolf Hitler and other fascist leaders.

In recent months, he has referred to political opponents as vermin and called migrants animals who are poisoning the blood of the country.

Mr Trumps associates are already said to be making plans to deport asylum seekers en masse during a potential second term.

Backers of the former president, including former administration officials, are prepping executive orders and policy memos to reduce the number of migrants crossing the US-Mexico border on day one of him potentially reclaiming the White House, several people involved told The Wall Street Journal.

A Trump supporter confronts protestors during the campaign rally in the South Bronx in New York City on 23 May (AFP via Getty Images)

A Trump spokesperson told The Independent earlier this month that Mr Trump will implement brand new crackdowns that will send shockwaves to all the worlds criminal smugglers, and marshal every federal and state power necessary to institute the largest deportation operation in American history.

Mr Trumps intensified xenophobic attacks comes despite studies revealing that immigrants are not more likely to commit crimes, Reuters reported last month.

Thursdays rally marked his first in New York in eight years  and his first ever in the Bronx  coming somewhat out of convenience as his criminal trial in Manhattan nears the end.

Mr Trump noted that he had been concerned about how he would be welcomed in the heavily Democratic area.

Trump walks on stage as he arrives for a campaign rally in the South Bronx in New York City on 23 May (AFP via Getty Images)

I woke up, I said, I wonder, will it be hostile or will it be friendly? he said. It was beyond friendly. It was a love fest.

After losing the state by large margins in 2016 and 2020, Mr Trump claimed he would win New York in the fall.

New York was where you came to make it big. You want to make it big, you had to be in New York, Mr Trump, who made Florida his official home state in 2019, told the crowd. But sadly, this is now a city in decline.

In 2020, Mr Biden won the Bronx by 68 points, which was actually an improvement for Mr Trump compared to 2016 when he lost the borough by 79 points.

Mr Trump is in a close race with Mr Biden ahead of the election in the fall, with the Trump campaign trying to attract enough Black and Hispanic voters to get him across the line in key states.

Protesters and supporters of Trump are separated by the NYPD outside the Crotona Park rally venue (Getty Images)

Dont assume it doesnt matter just because you live in a blue city. You live in a blue city, but its going red very, very quickly, Mr Trump claimed.

Mr Trump also spent considerable parts of the speech reminiscing about his decades in New York, including praising his father Fred Trump and home builder William Levitt.

Despite his claims of a love fest, more than 100 protesters demonstrated against his appearance outside the fenced-off rally area.

Closing arguments in Mr Trumps criminal trial in New York will begin on Tuesday before the jury begins deliberations in the case.

Mr Trump is charged with falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election to silence her about an alleged affair they had in 2006. He has pleaded not guilty and denies the affair.
Donald Trump likes to tell anyone who will listen that hes absolutely convinced he will win his 2024 rematch against President Joe Biden. And, according to people whove spoken to the ex-president about this, Trump also seems convinced that if he wins another four years in the White House, state prosecutors will still be waiting for him on the other side of his term  ready to put him on trial, or even in prison, just as they are now.

To avoid such risks, the former and perhaps future president of the United States wants Congress to create a very specific insurance policy that would help keep him out of prison forever, two sources familiar with the matter tell Rolling Stone. Trump vaguely alluded to this idea last week outside his New York criminal hush money trial, when he said he has urged Republican lawmakers to pass laws to stop things like this.

In recent months, the sources say, Trump has spoken to several GOP lawmakers on Capitol Hill, attorneys, and other associates about the possibility of Republicans passing legislation in a second Trump term that would shield former presidents (i.e. Trump) from non-federal prosecutions. In recent conversations with closely-aligned lawmakers, Trump has pressured them to do so, describing it as imperative that he signs such a bill into law, if he again ascends to the Oval Office.

This, of course, would require that Republicans keep the House, take back the Senate, and have enough votes and agreement on the wisdom of these ideas to get it done.

Even after a second term, he doesnt think any of this is going to end, says one of the sources. He doesnt think Democrats are going to quit coming after him.

If Trump retakes the presidency this November, a new MAGAfied attorney general can shut down Special Counsel Jack Smiths federal criminal cases against Trump, therefore killing the two planned federal trials, neither of which is expected to happen during this election year. But in a scenario where Trump defeats Biden in November, he would in theory still have criminal charges and a trial waiting for him in Georgia, where he would not be able to pardon himself or have his Justice Department quash the case.

The twice-impeached, repeatedly-indicted ex-president and presumptive 2024 GOP nominee would like to resolve that problem, for obvious self-interested reasons.

Different ideas have been kicked around, including in private discussions with Trump, about how to go about this. But more recently, Trump appears fixated on the idea of passing a law to give former American presidents the option of moving state or local prosecutions into a federal court instead, the two sources add.

The former president himself has hinted at a legislative push to limit his exposure to such criminal charges. In an improvised press conference outside the Manhattan courthouse on Tuesday, Trump said hes been telling the Republican lawmakers who want to attend his trial and show solidarity to focus on legislation instead.

We have a lot of em. They want to come. I say, Just stay back and pass lots of laws to stop things like this, Trump told reporters.

Some Trump supporters in the House have already backed legislation that would help fulfill the former presidents wishes to place himself above the law  and did so well before the Manhattan criminal trial was underway.

Last year, Rep. Russell Fry (R-S.C.) introduced the No More Political Prosecutions Act of 2023. The bill, just a few lines long, would allow current and former presidents and vice presidents to remove any state or civil cases against them to federal court for any acts committed in the course of their official duties.

Given that Justice Department policy forbids the prosecution of a sitting president, the legislation would effectively freeze any pending state criminal or civil cases should Trump win a second term. Prosecutors in a Trump-appointed Justice Department could also effectively shut down the cases against him.

Among the bills cosponsors is House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who recently told Politico, I think its common sense that you cant have the president sitting in the Oval Office worried about whether some lawyer or some local DA somewhere is going to go after him.

The legislations sponsor replied on X: I agree. Its time for a vote on H.R. 2553, the No More Political Prosecutions Act.

Trumps push for new legislation is just his latest idea for shielding himself from criminal accountability. As Rolling Stone previously reported, Trump and his allies also plan to have the Justice Departments Office of Legal Counsel issue a memo advising that the DOJ should prohibit the prosecution of presidents even after they leave office.

Such a memo would codify Trumps arguments in federal court, and now at the Supreme Court, that presidents have expansive presidential immunity, even after they leave office, and that impeachment is the only avenue available for holding a president accountable for crimes committed while in office.

His attorneys tried to use the pending Supreme Court case weighing those arguments as an excuse to delay the New York City hush money case, on the grounds that some of the evidence included in the trial dated to his time in office.

Judge Juan Merchan dismissed the attempt.

More from Rolling Stone

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LUSAKA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Friday urged African countries to ensure that education is made available for all.

Education is the greatest equalizer and that investing in resilient education system accessible to all is a cornerstone for development, Hichilema said in remarks delivered on the eve of Africa Day, which falls on May 25.

"As we celebrate the Africa Freedom Day, let us celebrate the power of education in transforming lives and building a better Zambia, better Africa and indeed a better world," he said.

Africa Day, also known as Africa Freedom Day and African Liberation Day, is observed annually to celebrate the achievements of the Organization of African Unity, the predecessor of the African Union, from its creation on May 25, 1963.

According to the African Union, the theme for this year's commemoration is "Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa."

The theme places education and skills at the center of the continent's social transformation agenda and resonates with Zambia's policy direction of ensuring inclusive quality learning for all citizens, Hichilema said.

He said Africa is making sustained investment in higher education, science, technology, research and innovation, and Zambia is implementing a number of measures to promote increased access to inclusive, long-lasting and relevant learning.

The president said Africa Freedom Day should be commemorated to honor the courageous forefathers and mothers for their sacrifice as they fought for the continent's liberation and celebrate the progress and commitment to the ideals of pan-Africanism. 
A split-screen showdown between the Republican Party's presumptive presidential nominee, Donald Trump, and independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will occur this weekend at the Libertarian National Convention in Washington, D.C., as each hopeful seeks to court the party's base.

It's unlikely the two candidates will face off directly, however, despite calls from Kennedy for a debate between them. Kennedy addressed the convention Friday afternoon -- a day ahead of Trump's Saturday night appearance.

The Libertarian Party, which has access to the ballot in at least 37 states, is a non-interventionist political party that has seen a number of variations since its inception in the 1970s. Its members are best known for being largely socially liberal and fiscally conservative.

MORE: How RFK Jr., Libertarian Party could team up to help his ballot access -- if he reverses a previous refusal

The party is expecting to confirm its presidential and vice presidential nominees on Sunday.

"Libertarians are some of the most independent and thoughtful thinkers in our Country ... We must all work together to help advance freedom and liberty for every American, and a second Trump Administration will achieve that goal. I look forward to speaking at the Libertarian Event, which will be attended by many of my great friends," Trump said in a statement to ABC News.

Trump and Kennedy are both looking to court voters where they can as Election Day nears. Polls show that Trump is narrowly ahead of Biden -- 41% to about 40%, respectively -- while Kennedy trails with just shy of 10%, according to 538's national polling average.

PHOTO: Former President Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ( AP/Getty Images)

The Libertarian Party, which said they had extended speaking invitations to both Trump and Biden, called the former president's acceptance "momentous."

"This momentous occasion will mark the first time a former President directly addresses our members, candidates, and executive committee. Don't miss this opportunity to hear insights from a prominent figure in American politics and watch him engage with Libertarian ideals," the party wrote in a press release.

PHOTO: Former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures during a campaign rally in the South Bronx, May 23, 2024, in New York. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)

Kennedy later accepted a speaking slot at the convention, and then challenged Trump to a debate there, calling the venue "perfect neutral territory" for their meeting.

"You yourself have said you're not afraid to debate me as long as my poll numbers are decent... So let's meet in a couple of weeks and show the American public that at least two of the major candidates aren't afraid to debate each other," Kennedy wrote on X earlier this month.

Trump has not addressed that invite, but has separately since expressed being willing to share the debate stage with Kennedy if the latter qualified for the upcoming televised presidential debates scheduled for this summer.

MORE: RFK Jr. says he has ruled out Libertarian run for president

Mark Rutherford, who is running to be the Libertarian Party chair, said that some Libertarians have objected to Trump and Kennedy coming to their convention, as they are not candidates of the party.

"This is the national convention for the Libertarian Party to nominate our Libertarian Party presidential and vice presidential candidate. He is the presumptive Republican nominee. It's inappropriate for him to be here speaking to it. We need to be concentrating on our own candidates," Rutherford said about Trump.

PHOTO: Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at a rally, May 13, 2024, in Austin, Texas. (Sergio Flores/AFP via Getty Images)

He said the same thing about Kennedy.

"Again, he's running against our candidates  So it's just not appropriate for them to be here," Rutherford said.

"[Libertarian Party leadership] are bragging about bringing these people in. I think it's confusing the public and confusing people. Why are they here at our presidential nominating convention?"

Chase Oliver, one of the Libertarian presidential candidates, called Trump and Kennedy's attendance at their convention "confusing."

PHOTO: Libertarian presidential candidate Chase Oliver speaks with ABC News' MaryAlice Parks at the Libertarian National Convention, May 24, 2024, in Washington. (ABC News)

MORE: RFK Jr.'s 'clever move' to help earn ballot access nationwide: Allying with little-known parties

"When they see Donald Trump speak with a Libertarian banner behind them, that is going to confuse our brand of the average voter ... we're gonna have to climb out of that hole and really present a real contrast, which I'm happy to do, but it would be much easier if we didn't have them on our stage," Oliver said in an interview with ABC News White House Correspondent MaryAlice Parks on Friday.

But another Libertarian delegate, Garrett Steele of Nashville, Tennessee, said that he was excited to have both Trump and Kennedy at the convention because "they've brought attention" to the party and its platform.

Oliver joins Michael Rectenwald, Mike Ter Maat, Lars Mapstead, Jacob Hornberger, Joshua Smith, Joseph Collins, Charles Ballay, Toad, Art Olivier and Jody Jones as the party's candidates at the convention.

"There's a lot of people running," said Rutherford, indicating that there was not a clear front-runner in the race.

There is a chance that Kennedy could be nominated by the delegates at the Libertarian National Convention when they vote on Sunday.

ABC News' Oren Oppenheim, Soorin Kim, Lalee Ibssa, and Kelsey Walsh contributed to this report.

Trump, RFK Jr. in split-screen showdown at Libertarian National Convention originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Trump says Haley will be on his team; he calls her a capable person

After months of silence post election suspension, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said shed vote for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. Now, hes saying there is a place for her on his team.

Trump said Haley was a very capable person, and was sure she would be part of his team in some form, after Haley said she would vote for the former president earlier this week.

The remarks are a complete 180 from the relationship theyve had the last year while campaigning against each other for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. On Wednesday, Haley said she would be voting for Trump because Joe Biden had been a catastrophe.

Well, I think shes going to be on our team because we have a lot of the same ideas, the same thoughts  I appreciated what she said, Trump said about Haleys comments and whether she would be on his team.

You know we had a nasty campaign, it was pretty nasty, he continued. But shes a very capable person, and Im sure shes going to be on our team in some form, absolutely.

Haleys remarks were made at a Q&A session following a speech at the conservative Hudson Institute in Washington, D.C., where she serves as the Walter P. Stern chair. She said Trump had not been perfect on many policies that she advocated for, including foreign policy and the economy.

She also said that the former president would be smart to support her and reach out to the voters who chose her, not just assume those voters will jump to his side.
Nikki Haley will be on my team in some form if I win, says Trump

Donald Trump said after a rally in New York that the pair have 'a lot of the same ideas' - OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP

Donald Trump has said Nikki Haley would be given a role in his administration in some form after his former rival said she would vote for him in Novembers US election.

Speaking after a rally in New York on Thursday, the Republican nominee suggested he would give Ms Haley a job if he were to win a second term in the White House.

I think shes going to be on our team because we have a lot of the same ideas, the same thoughts, he said.

We had a nasty campaign, it was pretty nasty. But shes a very capable person, and Im sure shes going to be on our team in some form, absolutely.

On Wednesday, Ms Haley gave her first speech since suspending her Republican primary campaign in March.

She told the Hudson Institute, a think tank where she has since become a fellow, that she would vote for Mr Trump.

I will be voting for Trump, she said, adding that the GOP nominee was not perfect but better than the absolute catastrophe of a second term for Joe Biden.

As she dropped out of the race in March, the former South Carolina governor said that she hoped Mr Trump would reach out to her supporters, after a bitter campaign in which she described him as unhinged and not fit to be president.

It is now up to Donald Trump to earn the votes of those in our party and beyond it, who did not support him, she said.

Haley has repeated her call for the Republican Party to unite. I stand by what I said in my suspension speech, she said.

Ms Haley previously served in Mr Trumps first administration, as the US ambassador to the UN.

Mr Bidens campaign has attempted to reach out to her supporters after the Republican primary, in which she won the state of Vermont and a poll of members in Washington DC.

Ms Haley, who is considered a more moderate Republican than Mr Trump, is rumoured to be preparing a second presidential campaign in the 2028 election.

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Former President Donald Trump on Thursday during his campaign rally in the Bronx invited up on stage two rappers who have been indicted over an alleged conspiracy to commit murder.

During his campaign speech, Trump introduced rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow, whose legal names are Michael Williams and Tegan Chambers, and invited them up on stage with him to say a few words.

Williams faces charges over an alleged conspiracy to commit murder and Chambers has been charged as a co-conspirator in a sprawling 140-count indictment, according to a news release by the Brooklyn District Attorneys office and court documents. They have pleaded not guilty to the charges. Williams and Tegan are two of 32 alleged gang members who were named in the indictment, which includes charges of murder, shootings and assaults.

Come here fellas, Trump said after introducing the two men and shaking their hands.

Williams, or Sheff G, said, One thing I want to say, theyre always gon whisper your accomplishments and shout your failures. Trump gon shout the wins for all of us.

Sleepy Hallow then added, Make America great again.

Trump thanked them and praised Sheff Gs grills, saying, I gotta get my teeth like that. I want that to happen to me.

Thursdays event in one of the most Democratic counties in the country happened days ahead of closing arguments in Trumps New York criminal hush money trial. Trump faces 34 felony counts and has pleaded not guilty.

CNNs Holmes Lybrand contributed to this story.

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The presidential candidate who stood and watched as scores of his supporters rampaged through the U.S. Capitol is being proactive about security for the Republican National Convention in July.

The Trump campaign has decided that the Secret Services current security plans dont provide enough clearance between the GOP event and its liberal protesters. In a letter to Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle, the campaign described the current programmed distance between the Milwaukee event and its protesters as an unacceptable and critical flaw. Specifically, it requests that the agency add the inclusion of a nearby parkeffectively an extra one-block cushion areato the security perimeter in a preemptive effort to keep thousands of the events anticipated detractors far away from its attendees.

Trump is not the only politico to request the change, though hes almost certainly the loudest. Some of the biggest GOP lawmakers in the country have already made the special request, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senators Ron Johnson and Rick Scott.

To date, the local USSS team has been unresponsive to the RNCs reasonable proposal, as set out in my April 26 letter, to alleviate these safety risks through a very modest alteration of the Perimeternamely, to expand a small portion of the Security Perimeter approximately one block to the East to encapsulate the Park, wrote Republican National Committee counsel Todd Steggerda in the letter.

The city of Milwaukee did not agree with the Trump campaigns assessment of the security perimeter. Milwaukees director of communications Jeff Fleming told ABC News that the city did not identify any critical flaws in the security plan and that it is coordinating with multiple agencies to ensure a safe event for everyone involved.
FILE - Former President Donald Trump closes his eyes during his trial at Manhattan criminal court May 16, 2024, in New York. Trump has spent the majority of his time as a criminal defendant sitting nearly motionless, for hours, leaning back in his chair with his eyes closed, so zen he often appeared to be asleep. It is, at least in part, a strategy in response to warnings that behaving like he has in past trials could backfire. (Mike Segar/Pool Photo via AP, File)

NEW YORK (AP)  Donald Trump isnt known for letting slights pass.

Yet for weeks, the famously combative presumptive Republican nominee has sat silently  to the point of sometimes seeming asleep  in a sterile Manhattan courtroom amid a barrage of accusations and insults.

There were the times his former fixer-turned-chief prosecution witness was quoted calling him a boorish cartoon misogynist" and a Cheeto-dusted villain who belonged in a cage, like an animal. There were the graphic details relayed by a porn actor about the night she claims they had sex. And there were lengthy descriptions of what the prosecution argues was an illegal scheme to conceal hush money payments to salvage his then-flailing 2016 campaign.

Through it all, even as he and his allies attacked the case outside the courtroom, Trump has spent the majority of his time as a criminal defendant sitting nearly motionless for hours, leaning back in his burgundy leather chair with his eyes closed. He ultimately chose not to testify in a case that made him the first former president in the nations history to stand trial on criminal charges.

Closing arguments in the case are scheduled for Tuesday, after which a jury will decide whether to make him the first former president and major party nominee convicted of felony charges.

Trumps demeanor inside the courtroom has been a notable departure from the fight-at-all-costs persona that has defined him through decades of public life, fueling his transformation from a New York tabloid fixture to a onetime  and possible future  president.

And it has been at least partially strategic, according to people familiar with Trump's approach who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the case. Trumps attorneys have warned him that behaving as he did in his previous trials  where he tangled with judges and stormed out  could damage his standing with a jury that is likely watching his every move and will determine his fate.

Acting out, he appears to have concluded, is not in his best interest, particularly as he faces the risk of imprisonment if he's convicted.

Trump has also been able to speak several times a day to a gaggle of media camped outside the courtroom, giving him an outlet to vent his frustrations and get his message out. Facing a gag order that prohibits him from criticizing witnesses, his campaign has assembled a host of supporters  from vice presidential contenders to the House speaker  to deliver those attacks instead.

But the approach comes with its own risks. Some former prosecutors and attorneys who have been closely following the case said that while disruptive behavior could prove detrimental to the jury, theres also a risk of Trump appearing too disengaged.

What you want is for your client to look attentive, respectful and look like nothing is bothering him  but also not falling asleep, said Randall D. Eliason, a former assistant U.S. attorney who for years specialized in white-collar crime.

EYES WIDE SHUT

Trump has repeatedly denied reports from journalists watching him via closed-circuit television that he is sleeping in court, insisting on his social media site that he simply closes my beautiful blue eyes, sometimes, listen intensely, and take it ALL in!!!

No, I dont fall asleep, he told Telemundo Miami. I sometimes will sit back, close my eyes. I hear everything perfectly. At some point I may fall asleep. But I will let you know when that is.

Eliason said Trumps demeanor was definitely something jurors would notice and could potentially perceive as disrespectful if they feel he's acting like its not even worth his attention" or think he's taking a nap.

If its a tactic to try to make it look like hes not concerned about the testimony, I dont think that would play well, he said. I guess if hes really just sort of listening with eyes closed, meditating or whatever, that doesnt seem so bad. But I think falling asleep, the jury would find quite disrespectful."

On the other hand, he added, You dont want him to get really agitated" as he did during previous trials.

Actually, sleeping in court would be highly unusual for a defendant.

I have witnessed lawyers fall asleep, but never a defendant in a criminal case. Their lives are at stake and they dont sleep in my experience, said Stephen A. Saltzburg, a professor at the George Washington University Law School who has been writing about the case.

Its possible its all an act to show: Hey, this is bogus, Im not going to pay attention to it, he added, but that would also be unhelpful. Since the jury has to pay attention, that doesnt send a message that you respect this whole jury process.

YOUR CLIENT IS UPSET

Trump hasn't been entirely sedated. During jury selection, he appeared alert and engaged, and was at one point reprimanded by the judge for his visible reactions to one juror's answers.

(W)hile the juror was at the podium maybe 12 feet from your client, your client was audibly uttering something ... he was audibly gesturing, Judge Juan Merchan warned one of his lawyers in April.

I wont tolerate that. I will not have any jurors intimidated in this courtroom," he went on. "I want to make that crystal clear.

Later, when Stormy Daniels was on the stand, Trumps reaction to her testimony once again prompted Merchan to summon his lawyers to the bench.

I understand that your client is upset at this point, but he is cursing audibly, and he is shaking his head visually and thats contemptuous. It has the potential to intimidate the witness and the jury can see that, Merchan said, according to the transcript.

But as the trial dragged on, and particularly during his ex-attorney Michael Cohens testimony, Trump most often sat in repose, leaning back in his chair, with his eyes closed, his lips pursed and his head tilted back or to the side. He shifted from time to time  sometimes to scratch an itch. Sometimes he appeared to doze off, his mouth falling agape as he sat for hours in the fluorescent-lit courtroom.

Other times, he re-engaged, sitting upright, chatting with his lawyers or scribbling and passing notes. He often leafed through stacks of papers, looked around the courtroom or sat upright, with his arms folded across his chest. He appeared especially alert and engaged during defense witness Robert Costellos combative testimony, during which the judge threatened to remove Costello from the stand.

But afterward, he returned to the eyes-closed, head-back position that became his default.

PAST OUTBURSTS

It's been a marked contrast from his demeanor at his earlier civil trials, when Trump stormed out of the courtroom, actively sparred with judges and made no effort to shield his disdain.

During his business fraud civil trial, during which Cohen also testified, Trump blasted a court clerk from the stand, lashed out at the judge and, at one point, marched out of the courtroom. The judge in that case issued Trump a $355 million penalty.

And in his E. Jean Carroll defamation case, he was reprimanded for muttering while she spoke, told the judge he would love it if he were removed from the courtroom, and stood up and walked out during Carrolls closing argument, in front of the jury.

Saltzburg said he believes Trumps behavior in that case is one of the reasons the jury awarded her a whopping $83.3 million.

They wanted to send a clear message to him and they thought it would take a lot of money to do it, he said.

In this case, said Jeffrey S. Jacobovitz, a trial attorney with extensive experience in white-collar criminal defense, Trump's demeanor is "something that a jury would certainly notice."

The perception that he's been sleeping is likely to have a negative effect on the jury, he said, adding, I think I would prefer angry Trump.

___

Associated Press writers Michael R. Sisak, Jake Offenhartz, Jennifer Peltz and Michelle L. Price contributed to this report.
Trump Has a New V.P. Contenderand Hes the Worst of Them All

The latest addition to Donald Trumps horror show of vice presidential candidates is Senator Tom Cotton, The New York Times reports.

Trump reportedly thinks the Arkansas senator is a reliable communicator, and likes the fact that Cotton is a military veteran with undergraduate and law degrees from Harvard.

Cotton told Fox News on Monday that Trump has not discussed the vice presidency with him, and the two only discussed what the former president needs to do to be elected a second time.



When we do talk, we talk about what its going to take to win this election in Novemberto elect President Trump to another term in the White House and elect a Republican Congress, so we can begin to repair the damage that Joe Bidens presidency has inflicted on this country, Cotton said.



Cotton may be on Trumps shortlist for a different reason: his foreign policy hawkishness and itchy trigger finger.



Even before his political career began, he called for American journalists to be jailed for reporting on classified information. After becoming senator, he made a name for himself by constantly calling on the United States to attack Iran. But hes also called for a brutal use of force domestically as well. In 2020, the Arkansas senator infamously called for invoking the Insurrection Act and sending in federal troops to quell Black Lives Matter demonstrations. Most recently, he again called for troops to be deployed against protesters, this time against demonstrators who oppose Israels brutal massacre in Gaza, which he continues to cheer on.



This year, hes also made headlines for badgering TikToks CEO Shou Zi Chew in a racist onslaught of questions about Chews background, repeatedly asking if the social media executive was a member of the Chinese Communist Party and ignoring Chews assertion that he was Singaporean.

To many Republicans in todays Trump-led GOP, these disturbing stances are welcomed, not rejected. The question is whether the Republican presidential nominee thinks Cotton and his record would help him return to the White House.


North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, a rising Republican star whose name has been floated as a potential running mate for former President Trump, has endorsed GOP hopeful Kari Lake in Arizonas Senate race.

Borrowing a Trump phrase, Burgum released a statement Friday saying Lake has his complete and total endorsement.

Kari Lake is the conservative fighter we need to help President Trump Make America Great Again, he wrote.

He joins a long list of Trump-aligned Republicans who have thrown their support behind Lake ahead of Arizonas July 30 GOP primary.

The governor, a wealthy businessman and investor, has stayed politically popular in North Dakota since he took office in 2016. Still, his campaign for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination failed to gain traction before Trump became the partys presumptive nominee.

Burgum, 67, was among several Trump acolytes who attended the former presidents New York criminal trial earlier this month and said a conviction in the hush money case would be a travesty of justice.

Lake, a former TV anchor who unsuccessfully ran for Arizona governor in 2022, is a staunch Trump loyalist. Recent reports, however, suggested the former president has concerns about her campaign and the potential to be a drag on the GOP ticket.

Citing an unnamed source, The Washington Post reported last month: At one point last year, after grumbling for months that [Lake] was at his Mar-a-Lago Club too often, Trump gently suggested to Lake that she should leave the club and hit the campaign trail in Arizona.

Despite those concerns, she has remained close to the former president and a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, stemmed from Trumps famous Make America Great Again motto.

Trump endorsed Lakes campaign when it launched in October. She was even mentioned as an early possible vice presidential option.

The Burgum boost comes as Lake tries to hold onto her lead over Republican primary rival Mark Lamb. A Noble Predictive Insights poll released Thursday showed about 46 percent of Arizona Republicans surveyed said they back Lake, while about 21 percent said they support Lamb, the Pinal County sheriff. A similar poll in February showed Lake at 54 percent.

The GOP primary winner will go on to face Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in the November general election. Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is not seeking another term, leaving the seat up for grabs.

Lake has declined invitations to debate Lamb.

Frankly, Im not running against Mark Lamb, Lake said during a local TV interview. Im focused on who my opponent is and that is Ruben Gallego.

The Hill/Decision Desk HQs polling index shows Lake trailing Gallego by 8 points, bringing in 35.8 percent of the vote compared to the Arizona lawmakers 46.5 percent.



Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
During his 2020 presidential campaign, Donald Trump attacked Joe Biden from the left on drug policy and criminal justice, slamming him for pushing harsh laws that had disproportionately hurt black people. Trump is trying that same tack again this time around, portraying Biden as a racist eager to lock up African Americans. "We must not forget that it was Joe Biden who was a key figure in passing the 1994 Crime Bill, which disproportionately harmed Black communities through harsh sentencing laws and increased incarceration rates," Janiyah Thomas, the Trump campaign's "black media director," said in an emailed press release on Thursday.

That stance is consistent with aspects of Trump's record as president, including his support for the FIRST STEP Act, a package of sentencing and prison reforms that he signed into law in December 2018. But it is blatantly inconsistent with Trump's current drug policy and criminal justice agenda, which favors aggressive enforcement, severe penalties, and impunity for abusive police officers.

Like Biden, who in 2022 promised to "beat the opioid epidemic" by "stop[ping] the flow of illicit drugs," Trump indulges in the familiar fantasy that interdiction can prevent Americans from consuming politically disfavored intoxicants. But Trump goes bigger, imagining "a full naval embargo on the drug cartels" and deployment of "military assets" to "inflict maximum damage" on them. If the U.S. does not get "the full cooperation of other governments to stop this menace," he warns, "we will expose every bribe, every kickback, every payoff, and every bit of corruption that is allowing the cartels to preserve their brutal reign."

Trump's insistence that he is a tougher drug warrior than Biden is hard to reconcile with his portrayal of Biden as an overzealous drug warrior who was heedless of the damage his legislation did. And Trump does not offer much evidence from his own record as president that determination and violence can defeat the economics of prohibition. "For three decades before my election," he says, "drug overdose deaths increased every single year. We took the drug and fentanyl crisis head on, and we achieved the first reduction in overdose deaths in more than 30 years."

Trump is referring to a slight decrease in drug-related deaths between 2017 and 2018. He neglects to mention that the number went back up again in 2019 and 2020, reaching record levels during his administrationa trend that continued after he left office. Contrary to Trump's spin, the 1.7 percent drop he highlights does not suggest his ideas for "Ending the Scourge of Drug Addiction in America" are any better than Biden's.

(NIDA)

In addition to deploying America's military might against drug cartels, Trump promises to "take down the gangs" that "distribute these deadly narcotics on a local level." That will entail a lot of arrests and a lot of prison sentences, producing the "increased incarceration rates" that Trump decries. Just as the policies that Biden supported as a senator "disproportionately harmed Black communities," so will the crackdown that Trump has in mind.

Trump says he also will "ask Congress to ensure that drug dealers, kingpins and human traffickers receive the death penalty." Executing drug dealers is not a new idea for Trump, who has repeatedly recommended that policy over the years. But it is inconsistent with with his criticism of Biden's legislative record, his condemnation of "very unfair" drug penalties, his commutations for nonviolent drug offenders who had received those penalties, and his support for sentencing reform.

The most famous beneficiary of Trump's clemency was Alice Johnson, a first-time offender who had received a life sentence for participating in a Memphis cocaine trafficking operation. "You have many people like Mrs. Johnson," Trump told Fox News in 2018. "There are people in jail for really long terms." Trump highlighted Johnson's case during his 2019 State of the Union address, in a 2020 Super Bowl ad, and at the 2020 Republican National Convention, where Johnson gave a grateful speech.

As a black woman hit with a draconian sentence under inflexible drug laws, Johnson was a useful exhibit in Trump's case that African-American voters should be grateful to him and wary of Biden. But after Trump re-upped his death penalty proposal in a 2023 interview with Fox News, his mercy collided with his blood lust.

When Bret Baier pointed out that someone like Johnson would have been "killed under your plan," Trump was flummoxed. "No, no, no," he said. "It would depend on the severity," he added. He also noted that the death penalty he imagined would not apply retroactively to Johnson herself and suggested that, had it been the law at the time, it would have deterred her from getting involved in drug dealing.

By that point, Trump had become disenchanted with sentencing reform. In a 2022 interview with New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman, he bitterly complained that he had not reaped the political reward he expected from backing the FIRST STEP Act. "Did it for African Americans," he told her. "Nobody else could have gotten it done. Got zero credit."

Despite that disappointing experience, Trump is trying again, and his drug war enthusiasm is not the only reason to be skeptical of his pitch. His anti-crime agenda, which reflects his authoritarian instincts, includes a promise to "strengthen qualified immunity and other protections for police officers."

As critics across the political spectrum have been pointing out for years, the doctrine of qualified immunity, which bars federal civil rights claims unless they allege violations of "clearly established" law, often shields police officers (and other government officials) from liability for outrageous misconduct. But as Trump sees it, that shield is not big and strong enough.

Trump has promised to "indemnify" cops "against any and all liability." He apparently does not realize that police officers already are routinely indemnified in the rare cases when they are held liable for abuse, and he implausibly argues that the threat of liability has a paralyzing impact, discouraging cops from doing their jobs. In case beefing up qualified immunity does not do the trick, Trump also promises to give police "immunity from prosecution" for violating people's rights.

Trump thinks total impunity for abusive cops is necessary to "reclaim safety, dignity, and peace for law-abiding Americans." In his view, remedies for police abuse, such as insisting that officers obey the Constitution or authorizing criminal charges and civil rights lawsuits when they don't, are dangerous to public order. He believes police officers should not have to worry that they could face charges or litigation simply because they broke the law, and maybe a few heads, while doing their jobs.

Given that position, Trump may have a hard time persuading black voters that he is on their side. As Reason's Billy Binion notes, survey data suggest those voters want the law and order that Trump promises, but not at the cost of giving free rein to armed agents of the state.

Trump's positions on drug policy and criminal justice are utterly incoherent. Mass incarceration is bad, he says, even as he recommends policies that would imprison more people for conduct that violates no one's rights. Drug laws that disproportionately hurt African Americans are troubling, he thinks, but they should be enforced more aggressively. A life sentence for Alice Johnson was plainly unjust, he says, but a death sentence would have been appropriate. Biden was mindlessly punitive, he argues, but Trump is preferable because he is even tougher. Trump cannot logically have it both ways, but that will not stop him from trying.

The post Trump's Anti-Crime Agenda Contradicts His Criticism of Biden's Legislative Record appeared first on Reason.com.
RIGA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- European coordinator for the North Sea-Baltic TEN-T Corridor Catherine Trautmann said in Riga that she hoped the mainline of the pan-Baltic railroad project Rail Baltica could be completed by 2023.

Catherine Trautmann made the remarks in an interview with Latvian news agency LETA issued on Friday. She was visiting Riga this week and said the railway is important for the connection with Poland.

Rail Baltica, part of the European Union's (EU) North Sea Baltic TEN-T corridor, is a double-track, European standard 1,435 mm gauge electrified railway for passenger and freight transport. It will be built from Tallinn to the Lithuanian-Polish border with an overall length of 870 km. The railway was expected to be completed by 2026 when the project tender was launched.

The project has been delayed for several reasons. Eiropas Dzelzcela Linijas (EDzL), the company in charge of the railroad construction in Latvia, said earlier this week that deforestation works are currently underway along the planned railway, and construction works are expected to begin towards the second half of the summer.

Commenting on the delayed development, Trautmann said the main problem is "to find new money" and "delays are costly." "Some parts of the project may not be fully completed, but I hope we will have a basic line with trains running in 2030," she added.

According to the official website of the Rail Baltica project, the project is financed by Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and the EU. In the framework of the Connecting Europe Facility funding instrument, EU funding accounts for 85 percent of the total eligible costs. 
FILE PHOTO: Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Trump attends a campaign rally, in New York

By Tim Reid, Julia Harte and Nathan Layne

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin was traveling to a campaign rally aboard Donald Trump's private jet in early April when he decided to broach the delicate issue of early voting.

As the Boeing 757 flew from Florida to Green Bay, Wisconsin, Johnson pressed the Republican candidate to use his speech to urge his supporters to cast their votes ahead of Election Day.

Early voting often draws a torrent of vitriol from Trump, who falsely claims it is vulnerable to fraud and cost him the 2020 election.

But Johnson is one of a number of senior Republicans  many of them in key swing states, like Wisconsin  who are worried that Trump's demonizing of early voting could torpedo his hopes of winning back the White House on Nov. 5.

"I encouraged the president to encourage Wisconsin Republicans to bank their votes," said Johnson, adding he didn't encounter any resistance from Trump. "I would recommend he get on board."

"We have to do everything we can to fully utilize the rules as they are written. Democrats certainly have," said the 69-year-old senator, himself a recent convert to early voting.

But not only did Trump fail to extol the importance of early voting at the April 2 rally, he told the crowd of more than 3,000 supporters that his goal was ultimately to limit voting to Election Day only, a message greeted with huge cheers.

And when Johnson  in his third Senate term - took to the convention center's stage to urge Republicans to vote early, he was met with tepid applause from a just few people.

Supporters of early voting say it increases turnout and avoids the problems of people being unable to vote on Election Day because of bad weather, logistical issues at voting stations or personal reasons. Voters rights groups say there is no data showing early voting can lead to fraudulent ballots being cast.

At the last presidential election in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, early voting surged to new highs. And in the 2022 midterm elections, half of U.S. voters cast their vote before Election Day, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

November's election will be a closely fought contest between Trump and President Joe Biden, opinion polls suggest. The Democratic incumbent defeated Trump in Wisconsin by just 20,000 votes in 2020 and the state is again a major prize for both parties.

Not pursuing an early voting strategy in 2024 would be "political suicide," said Brian Schimming, the chairman of the Wisconsin Republican Party.

Reuters spoke to Republican Party leaders in four of the likely seven battleground states: Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and North Carolina. They told Reuters they are making a big push to encourage Republicans not to wait until Election Day to cast their ballots.

The newly installed leaders of the Republican National Committee (RNC) - Michael Whatley and Trump's daughter-in-law, Lara Trump - insist the former president is on board with early voting.

"We urge all Republicans to go vote early, by mail, on Election Day, or whichever method works best for them," Claire Zunk, an RNC spokesperson, said in a statement to Reuters.

But, as Johnson's experience underscores, it's not clear that voters are willing to embrace the new message after Trump's repeated and continuing claims of fraud.

Suzanne Sliva, a 60-year-old entrepreneur from Lucas, Texas, said she views early voting with suspicion and believes it should be reserved only for exceptional circumstances.

"Voting is one day," she said, while waiting for Trump to speak at a National Rifle Association (NRA) event in Dallas, Texas last weekend. "Everything gets counted in one day, and we know before midnight who the winner is."

Michael McDonald, a political science professor at the University of Florida who has been analyzing elections data for over 30 years, said it would take a lot of messaging to change some voters' minds, "most importantly from Trump himself."

MIXED MESSAGING

Trump's position, however, remains unclear. At a campaign rally in New Jersey on May 11, the candidate, for the first time in a speech this year, promoted early voting for the Nov. 5 general election: "Get an absentee or mail-in ballot, vote early or vote on Election Day," he told supporters.

Yet in the same speech he said "mail-in voting is largely corrupt."

And, at a rally on April 13, Trump likened early voting to "stealing" the vote. In March, he called mail-in voting a hoax.

In fact, he has called mail-in voting corrupt or a hoax at least 11 times in speeches this year alone, according to a Reuters analysis of his prepared remarks.

But away from the teleprompter, Trump has posted twice on Truth Social since mid-April that early voting is important.

"That is really not helpful," said Oscar Brock, an RNC committee member from Tennessee and a supporter of early voting, referring to Trump's mixed messaging.

Voting rights groups accuse the RNC of double dealing in publicly backing early voting. They note the RNC, Republican lawmakers in battleground states and conservative groups continue to pass laws and file lawsuits that restrict access to early voting.

The activists say these efforts disproportionately affect minority groups, who tend to vote for the Democratic Party in large numbers. Republicans deny the accusation, saying they are seeking to protect the integrity of the voting process.

Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said the former president had always advocated for free and fair elections, "where every legal vote is counted and any instance of fraud is rooted out."

"Democrats have proven they are willing to change voting rules during the middle of a pandemic that made our elections more susceptible to fraud," Cheung said.

In the 2020 presidential election, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Democratic election officials in many states expanded early voting by adding ballot drop box locations, extending voting deadlines, and increasing the use of mail-in voting.

The Democratic National Committee is investing "tens of millions" dollars to promote early and mail-in voting this year, said Alex Floyd, the DNC's rapid response director.

In 2020, 82% of Biden supporters voted early, compared to 62% of Trump's, according to the Pew Research Center, an independent Washington-based think tank. Nearly twice as many Biden voters sent ballots by mail compared to Trump supporters, according to Pew.

SWING STATES

Despite the mixed messaging from Trump, the chairmen of state Republican parties in the four swing states told Reuters they are pressing ahead with an early voting push.

Josh McKoon, chairman of the Republican Party in Georgia, said the party on April 29 sent a video promoting early voting to 70,000 registered Republicans through social media and email.

In North Carolina, Republican chair Jason Simmons said the party is holding training sessions with county and district chairs on how to message voters on the importance of early voting, while in Michigan, Republican Party chair Pete Hoekstra is pushing early voting every time he speaks to grassroots activists across the state.

In Wisconsin, Schimming, the party chair, said top Republican officials in the state had released videos of themselves voting early in this year's primaries to reinforce their message of casting ballots before Election Day.

And in Pennsylvania, the Republican State Leadership Committee, together with two other Republican groups, has launched a $10 million initiative to promote mail-in voting in the state, a push first reported by Reuters.

Turning Point Action, a conservative group once skeptical of early voting, says it plans to spend over $100 million in Wisconsin, Arizona and Michigan to persuade Republicans who rarely vote to cast ballots.

Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for TPA, said they hoped a majority of those votes will be cast before Election Day.

LITIGATION

Celina Stewart, chief counsel for the League of Women Voters, a non-partisan voting rights group, said early voting makes the election process safer because it catches errors. Some 47 states use some form of early voting, she added.

But in five swing states this year - Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and North Carolina - Republican lawmakers have either passed bills or introduced legislation aimed at restricting access to early voting 28 times, according to a Reuters analysis of legislation in state houses.

The bills sought multiple ways to restrict access to early voting. They included three provisions to eliminate early in-person voting altogether, 15 to make it easier to prevent people from voting early, and seven to reduce early voting locations, according to Reuters' tally.

The RNC has also filed or supports 29 lawsuits aimed at restricting early voting, 17 of which concern voting by mail, according to Democracy Docket, a progressive voting rights group that tracks election-related litigation.

"Republicans are trying to turn out their voters and there is simultaneously a push to suppress the vote and restrict access to voting," said Wendy Weiser, vice president for democracy at the nonpartisan Brennan Center for Justice at New York University.

Research shows restricting access to early voting, "disproportionately reduces access and participation by voters of color", Weiser said, because they often work multiple jobs, or lack access to transport, making their access to polling locations on Election Day more difficult.

Zunk, the RNC spokesperson, did not respond directly to Reuters' questions about the lawsuits or legislative efforts but said the party was "dedicated to securing the vote across the country so all voters can have full confidence in a fair election."

(Reporting by Tim Reid, Julia Harte and Nathan Layne. Additional reporting by Brad Heath and Gram Slattery. Editing by Ross Colvin and Daniel Flynn)
No one thinks President Joe Biden tried to assassinate Donald Trump.

"Crooked Joe Bidens DOJ, in their Illegal and UnConstitutional Raid of Mar-a-Lago, AUTHORIZED THE FBI TO USE DEADLY (LETHAL) FORCE," the former president wrote on his Truth Social platform this week. Earlier in the day, it was revealed that hidden classified documents were found in Trump's bedroom following the FBI's 2022 search.

Not even the people using their MAGA megaphones to say this believe their lies. Not Steve Bannon, not Trump's lawyer Christina Bobb, not Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga. Trump himself definitely doesn't believe his own hysterics. We know he's lying whenever he's talking or typing. While there are always a few stray uber-morons out there who actually believe this crap, by and large, the audience for this conspiracy theory already knows it's a lie. The audience is participating in political theater, a collective effort to wage the fascist war on reality.

The dutiful fact checks produced by folks like Glenn Kessler at the Washington Post aren't totally useless. For liberals and centrists, he does a good job of showing that the people saying this can not possibly believe it. The fact check is also helpful for publicly shaming your right-wing relatives who repeat the "Biden the assassin" lie on social media. Just copy/paste the link, but don't bother responding to the inevitable screeching meltdown from your now-embarrassed relatives about "fake news" and the "deep state." Arguing gives the lies too much credit. Just call them out and move on.

As contemptible as this behavior is, however, it's important to take it seriously for one major reason: Whatever the MAGA right accuses its opponents of doing, they themselves are doing, or at least plan on doing.

Projection is a permanent psychological state for Trump and his allies. Trump spends all day, every day lobbing accusations at others, and without fail, everything he puts on other people better describes himself. He calls his opponents "crooked," "sleepy," "racist" and mocks their waistlines. It's on-the-nose, how much he's just describing what he sees in the mirror. Projection is a habit that has been embraced by his allies, to a point of obviousness that makes it feel like a waste of breath to observe it. Every finger pointed outward, with MAGA, would be better aimed at their own noses.

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This asinine "assassination" lie isn't just a deflection technique by terrible people trying to flee from their own nagging consciences. It's a threat. It needs to be understood as one. And it's not just a threat against Biden. This is the MAGA movement laying the foundation for what are their increasingly overt claims to be justified in using violence to suppress their political opposition.

As Kessler wisely noted at the top of his lengthy fact check of Trump's "assassination" lie, the only person who is asserting a right to assassinate political opponents is Donald Trump. This is not an exaggeration. During oral arguments in front of the Supreme Court over the question of whether Trump gets blanket immunity for all crimes committed in office, Justice Sonia Sotomayor asked if a president should be allowed to "order someone to assassinate" someone running against him for office. Without hesitation, Trump's lawyer said political assassinations are an "official act" and therefore should be legal for a president.

He did not say out loud, but it is generally understood, that this only applies to Republican presidents. But the phony outrage over the completely imaginary assassination plot against Trump underscores that point. Every single person flipping out over Biden's non-existent attempted murder cannot wait to line up behind Trump if he actually does send assassins after political rivals.

In fact, they have already done so. Trump sent a mob to the Capitol on Jan. 6, clearly understanding they may very well kill the people inside. We know this because, on the day of the riot, he insisted on letting armed people into the crowd, arguing, "They're not here to hurt me." We know this because the insurrectionists chanted "Hang Mike Pence," and Trump defended them for it. We know this because he makes approving jokes about the attempted kidnapping of former speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. We know this because he keeps promising to pardon the Jan. 6 prisoners who assaulted cops. The only thing stopping Trump from directly ordering people to kill his opponents is fear of legal consequences. If that concern is removed by the Supreme Court, there's no reason to think he'll hold back.

Crucially, it's not just Trump. His game-playing on this is part of a larger trend of Republicans getting increasingly brazen in signaling support for political violence. The most alarming recent example comes from Texas, where Gov. Greg Abbott pardoned a convicted murderer, in a way that clearly sends the signal of permission for right-wing violence.

The case of Daniel Perry is remarkable because of how unambiguous it was. The former Army sergeant has a history of both loud racism and conspiring to have sex with a minor. He called civil rights activists a "zoo full of monkeys" and spoke frequently of his desire to kill people who protest against police brutality. In 2020, he acted on that fantasy, plowing his car into a group of Black Lives Matter demonstrators. One of them, a white man named Garrett Foster, was carrying a gun, which is legal in Texas. As the jury found, the gun was just the pretext used by Perry to kill Foster. In an act of pure bad faith, it was also the pretext Abbott used to pardon Perry.

False claims of "self-defense" are a favorite fascist tactic to justify violence. Even when racist mass shooters go to churches, temples, or grocery stores for the explicit purpose of mowing down as many random people as they can, they write self-pitying manifestos accusing the children, elderly people, and young parents they kill of being a supposed threat to the white race. By issuing this pardon, Abbott's message is clear: The claim of "self-defense" does not have to be believable. All that matters is that the perpetrator is right wing and the victim is perceived as not of the MAGA tribe.

Trump, his minions, and his audience of parrots are all doing the same thing when they repeat this transparent lie about Biden's make-believe "assassination" attempt. Like Abbott, they have given up even trying to make their excuses for violence sound plausible. The fake justifications are becoming so paper-thin that it's a real wonder that they even bother pretending to have a reason anymore.
Former President Donald Trump has promised to enact a wide range of restrictionist immigration policies if he wins the presidential race this year, but his most extreme proposal is to carry out "the largest domestic deportation operation in American history." In an interview last month with Time, Trump suggested that between 15 million and 20 million people could be targeted by the plan.

The idea of mass deportations had buy-in from other contenders for the Republican presidential nomination, including former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. And 51 percent of people surveyed by Axios and The Harris Poll in April said they support mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

The proposal has entered the mainstream, though few who embrace it as an antidote to a chaotic border policy seem to realize what implementation would cost. It would require militaristic enforcement that would bleed into many parts of everyday life; it would tear long-present parents and providers away from their U.S. citizen children; it would rattle key economic sectors; it would carry an extraordinary price tag; and it would fly in the face of American ideals.

In other words, Trump's mass deportation plan isn't just anti-immigrant. It's anti-American.

An April report from the Office of Homeland Security Statistics put the number of unauthorized immigrants around 11 million as of January 2022. (The count includes people who entered the country illegally or overstayed visas, as well as those who benefit from forms of prosecutorial discretion, such as individuals brought to the country illegally as kids.) Targeting those 11 million would amount to targeting about 3 percent of the U.S. population, while Trump's numbers would represent about 5 percent to 6 percent of the population.

Trump has said that his administration would use local law enforcement, the National Guard, and potentially the U.S. military to carry out deportations. "Advisers are eyeing military bases for expanded detention capacity," reported The Wall Street Journal. Jason Houser, former chief of staff at Immigration and Customs and Enforcement under President Joe Biden, told The Atlantic that Trump may well need to use warehouses or abandoned malls to temporarily house migrants slated for removal. Houser estimated that hundreds of thousands of enforcement officers could be needed to detain and deport migrants at the magnitude Trump wants. Hard-liner Trump administration immigration adviser Stephen Miller has suggested that Trump may deploy National Guard troops from red states to blue states that refuse to comply with the deportation plan, per The Atlantic.

Fifty-six percent of respondents to a Reuters/Ipsos poll "said most or all immigrants in the U.S. illegally should be deported," per Reuters, but about half also said they opposed putting undocumented immigrants into detention camps while waiting to be deported. Americans may prove more comfortable with the idea of mass deportations than the reality, which would inevitably tear apart families and lead to horrible scenes of enforcement, given the "large-scale raids" Miller has called for.

The plan would target millions of people who have established productive, peaceful lives in the U.S. and support U.S. citizen children. Roughly 80 percent of the country's unauthorized population has lived here for over five years, according to a 2019 estimate from the Migration Policy Institute. Just over one-fifth have lived in the U.S. for two decades or more. Eighteen percent are married to a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, and one-thirdover 3.5 million peoplereside with at least one U.S. citizen child under 18. Over a quarter of the unauthorized population, slightly more than 3 million, own a home.

Mass deportations would punish the U.S. citizen children and spouses of undocumented immigrants, but they would also significantly disrupt the economy, which would affect vast numbers of Americans. About half of the country's farm workers are undocumented; targeting this work force would lead to labor shortages and raise already-high food costs. The same is true in the construction sector, which disproportionately employs undocumented immigrants. And since many undocumented immigrants are entrepreneurs who create American jobs, deporting them would put U.S. citizens out of work.

Mass deportations would prompt American "business owners to cut back or start fewer new businesses, in some cases shifting their investments to less labor-intensive technologies and industries, while scaling back production to reflect the loss of consumers for their goods," warned George Mason University economist Michael Clemens. "Prior episodes of mass deportations and exclusions" in U.S. history, Clemens continued, have reduced both employment and earnings for American workers "in the short run and long run."

Even if these consequences don't touch all Americans, the price tag of Trump's plan would. Taxpayers would be on the hook for exorbitant enforcement costs. In an analysis conducted for MarketWatch, researchers with the Penn Wharton Budget Model estimated that Trump's deportation plan "could easily reach more than $1 trillion over 10 years." That estimate "comes in high relative to some other sources that still name a staggering price for deportation," wrote J.D. Tuccille for Reason this week. "If Trump and company want to own the issue, the costs associated with it also belong to them."

But this conversation is about much more than monetary costs. It's about the government wielding force against largely peaceful, nonviolent residents who help create vibrant American communities. It's about whether deploying police officers, National Guard members, and the military to extract undocumented immigrants from their homes and workplaces in raids is consistent with American values. It's about the civil rights and due process violations that will inevitably occur if this plan comes to fruition.

The U.S. immigration system is undeniably broken, but mass deportations won't fix it or create order. They would change the face of the country for the worse.

The post Trump's Mass Deportation Plan Is Anti-American appeared first on Reason.com.
Trumpworld is once again splintering from reality. This time, the diversion relates to countingspecifically, how many people attended Donald Trumps rally in the Bronx on Thursday.

Trump, who has long obsessed over the size of crowds at his events, shared an article from Right Side Broadcasting Network to his Truth Social account that quoted the Trump campaign as saying 25,000 people attended the electrifying event. The New York Times reported that Trumps team had acquired a permit for an event for 3,500 people.

The sheer numbers show the great enthusiasm that President Trump has gained among voters in even the bluest areas of the United States, the Right-Side Broadcasting Network article crowed.

That number later appeared on Fox News, was shared across various MAGA social media accounts, and also popped up on the official X account of the Republican Party.

President Trump went to the Bronx, and 25,000 people came out to Make America Great Again! pic.twitter.com/3TRVWQMA32  GOP (@GOP) May 24, 2024

But aerial footage of the event, and The Daily Beasts reporter on the ground, told a different story. ABC7s coverage of the event showed a much smaller crowd located in an amphitheater at Crotona Park.

While law enforcement told the New York Post that the crowd was between 8,000 and 10,000 people, The Daily Beast had a reporter in attendance, who estimated about 1,000 people were there.

Trump has been infamously sensitive about his crowd sizes, particularly when side-by-side photos went viral comparing his meagre inauguration crowd to that of Barack Obama. Trumps former White House press secretary, Sean Spicer, became a laughing stock for insisting that Trump had the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration, period, both in person and around the globe.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Texas Tech Health El Paso will celebrate 115 graduates with Doctor of Medicine degrees at the Foster School of Medicines 12th commencement ceremony.

The ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, May 24 at the Plaza Theatre, 125 W. Mills Ave.

The Foster School of Medicine was established to improve health care in the Borderland community by helping to grow the number of physicians in our historically medically underserved region, according to a press release sent by TTUHSC.



TTUHSC said students from this years graduating class have matched to residency programs across the country, including El Paso  with nine matching at Texas Tech Health El Paso. This graduating class also includes 17 El Pasoans.



Before the opening of the Foster School of Medicine, the number of physicians per 100,000 people in El Paso was 75 percent less than the national average, read the press release. Since 2009, El Paso County has grown its number of physicians from 1,034 to 1,715, a 66 percent increase and a direct result of having a four-year medical school and residency programs in the area.

Additionally, the ceremony will be livestreamed at facebook.com/ttuhscep.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
TULARE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A veteran who has lived in Tulare for almost two decades was honored by the United States Marines during his 100th birthday celebration on Armed Forces Day.

The United States Marines from the Marine Wing Support Squadron 473 honored Richard Matthews, a World War II veteran, during his 100th birthday celebration held during Armed Forces Day on May 18, a few days before the veterans actual birthday.

Officials say Matthews was born on May 26, 1924, and enlisted in the Marine Corps on Nov. 25, 1942. He served as a military policeman participating in action against the enemy at Vella Lavella, New Georgia, Bougainville, British Solomon Islands, and the occupation of Japan.

Matthews received an honorable discharge from the Marine Corps on Dec. 17, 1946.

In 2005, Matthews and his wife moved to Tulare to be closer to his children and grandchildren.

According to officials, Matthews has been a devoted family man, outdoor enthusiast, and pilot.

During the birthday celebration, the Marines from MWSS-473 visited Matthews and his friends and family, at his home. They presented him with a special birthday message from the 20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps.

The Marine Corps places great value on its history and the battles fought during WWII

specifically, are inspiring stories of grit and determination, perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds. We take those lessons, and we pass that on to our junior Marines, said Maj. Ryan Fielding, MWSS-473, Site Commander. It was an absolute pleasure to have been invited into the Matthews home and to share in the 100th birthday celebration of Corporal Richard Matthews.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
(Reuters) - From international court hearings to sanctions against Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank and strains in relations with the United States, it has been one of the most turbulent years so far for Israel since its birth in 1948.

Here are some of the moments:

JAN 12

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) opens hearings in a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza war.

South Africa accuses Israel of failing to uphold its obligations under the 1948 Genocide Convention.

Israel rejects the accusation, arguing it is acting to defend itself and fighting Hamas - designated as a terrorist organisation by the U.S. and other Western countries - after the Palestinian militant group's cross-border attack on Oct. 7.

The United States says the South African case is meritless.

JAN 26

The ICJ orders Israel to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians and do more to help civilians in Gaza, though it stops short of ordering a ceasefire as requested by South Africa.

The ICJ finds there is a case to be heard about whether Palestinian rights are being denied in a war it says is causing grievous humanitarian harm. It also calls for Palestinian armed groups to release hostages captured in the Oct. 7 assault on Israel that precipitated the conflict.

FEB 1

The Biden administration imposes sanctions on four Israeli men it accuses of being involved in settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, signalling rising U.S. displeasure with the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

MARCH 18

European Union foreign ministers agree in principle to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers for attacking Palestinians in the West Bank, and to add further sanctions on members of Hamas.

MARCH 25

The U.N. Security Council adopts a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire between Israel and the Islamist Hamas after the United States abstains from the vote.

Netanyahu says the failure of the U.S. to veto the resolution is a "clear retreat" from its previous position and will damage Israel's war efforts and bid to secure the release of more than 130 hostages still held by Hamas.

APRIL 19

The United States imposes sanctions on an ally of Israel's far-right national security minister and two entities that raised money for Israeli men accused of settler violence.

APRIL 29

The United States finds five units of Israel's security forces responsible for gross violations of human rights, the first time Washington has reached such a conclusion about Israeli forces, the State Department says, though it does not bar any of the units from receiving U.S. military assistance.

MAY 8

President Joe Biden publicly warns Israel for the first time that the U.S. will stop supplying it with weapons if Israeli forces carry out a full-blown invasion of Rafah, a refugee-packed city in southern Gaza.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says Biden decided to hold back delivery of high payload munitions to Israel because Washington believes a possible Israeli offensive into Rafah could endanger civilian lives.

But the United States, Israel's biggest arms supplier, says its commitment to Israel's defense remains "ironclad".

MAY 10

The U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly backs a Palestinian bid to become a full U.N. member by recognising it as qualified to join and recommending the U.N. Security Council "reconsider the matter favourably", after a U.S. veto thwarted an attempt by the Palestinians to become a full U.N. member in April.

The assembly adopts a resolution with 143 votes in favour and nine against - including the U.S. and Israel - while 25 countries abstain. It does not give the Palestinians full U.N. membership, but simply recognises them as qualified to join.

Israel's U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan accuses the assembly of shredding the U.N. Charter, illustrating his point by using a shredder to destroy a copy of the Charter while at the lectern.

MAY 20

The International Criminal Court prosecutor's office requests arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his defence minister, and also for three Hamas leaders, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Netanyahu calls the move a "complete distortion of reality", adding: "I reject with disgust the comparison of the prosecutor in The Hague between democratic Israel and the mass murderers of Hamas."

The United States stands by Israel, with Biden calling the legal step against Israeli officials "outrageous". France says it supports the ICC and the "fight against impunity".

MAY 22

Ireland, Spain and Norway announce they will recognise a Palestinian state. About 144 of the 193 member states of the United Nations already recognise Palestine as a state, including most of the global south, Russia, China and India. But only a handful of the 27 European Union members do so.

Israel says this amounts to a "reward for terrorism" and recalls its ambassadors from the three capitals.

The United States says it believes a Palestinian state should be achieved through negotiations, not unilateral recognition.

MAY 24

Judges at the top United Nations court order Israel to imemdiately halt its military assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, in a landmark emergency ruling on South Africa's case accusing Israel of genocide.

Reading out the ruling by the International Court of Justice, the ICJ's president Nawaf Salam said the situation in the besieged Palestinian enclave had deteriorated since the court last ordered Israel to take steps to improve it. Conditions had been met for a new emergency order.

(Compiled by Tom Perry; editing by Mark Heinrich)
ADEN, Yemen, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The Yemeni Houthi group on Friday claimed to have conducted multiple military strikes targeting commercial vessels in regional maritime zones, including the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Mediterranean.

According to a statement by the group's military spokesman Yahya Sarea, the Houthis in its first operation fired ballistic missiles at the Israeli-flagged container ship MSC ALEXANDRA while it was transiting the Arabian Sea.

The second operation, described as part of the "fourth phase of escalation," targeted the Greek-owned vessel YANNIS as it passed through the Red Sea, the statement said, adding that the strike, carried out by its naval forces and unmanned aerial vehicle unit, was "accurate."

In a third operation, the group fired several missiles at the Israeli-flagged vessel ESSEX while it was navigating the Mediterranean Sea, Sarea said, accusing the ship of violating restrictions on entry into ports under Israeli control in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Moreover, the group renewed its warning to all commercial entities engaged in maritime trade with Israel, saying their vessels would be targeted within designated operational areas by Houthi forces, regardless of the ships' intended destinations.

The Houthis vowed to persist with "full determination and faith" in implementing the "fourth phase of escalation" until the cessation of "aggression" against Palestinians and the lifting of the blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.

Since last November, the Houthis began to launch anti-ship ballistic missiles and drones targeting what they said were Israeli-linked ships transiting the Red Sea to show solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza, which has been under relentless Israeli attacks for more than seven months.

In January, the United States and Britain launched a military operation by carrying out airstrikes on Houthi military sites to deter the group. However, the Houthis, in retaliation, have subsequently expanded their attacks to include U.S. and British ships. 
Turks and Caicos released an American man who was charged for bringing 20 rounds of ammunition in his luggage to the Caribbean islands, according to court documents released Friday.

Bryan Hagerich, a Pennsylvania father of two, was arrested in February while on a family vacation. In Turks and Caicos  a British territory  firearms, weapons and stray bullets are prohibited.

Hagerich faced a 12-year sentence, the countrys minimum under its strict gun laws.

At his sentencing hearing Friday on the island of Providenciales, Judge Tanya Lobban Jackson sentenced Hagerich to 52 weeks but with 12 months suspended, meaning he wont serve any jail time, NBC News reported.

The judge said she found exceptional circumstances for him, citing that he unintentionally brought the ammunition, that his detainment had an impact on his daughter and that he had no criminal background, the outlet reported.

He can head home after making a payment of $6,700, per the reporting.

After court, an emotional Hagerich said he was absolutely elated and could not wait to get back to his children.

This is what weve been waiting for for the last 101 days and to experience this here  in eight short hours to be home and hug my kids  its the best day, he said, per NBC News, which had reporters at the courthouse.

He said he hopes to continue working for the other Americans who are detained on the island for similar charges.

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) was among a group of lawmakers who traveled to the island to lobby for the Americans release. He said in a statement Friday that it was an honor to meet with Hagerich and the others.

Fetterman said officials on the Turks and Caicos islands recognized that Hagerich and the other Americans are not gunrunners  they are just people who made a mistake.

Im grateful that the judge recognized that the right thing to do was to send Bryan home, he continued in his statement. Im also grateful to the U.S. State Department which has been a critical partner in bringing Bryan home.

The freshman senator said he is hopeful that the government expedites the other cases and the detained Americans will soon be released and reunited with their families as well.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Two juveniles were shot and suffered non-life threatening injuries early Friday inside an East St. Louis home, Illinois State Police said.

The circumstances that led to the shooting were not released, and no arrests have been announced.

The shooting occurred about 2 a.m. Friday in a home is in the 1800 block of Central Avenue.

Police did not release the age or gender of the victims, who were taken to an undisclosed hospital. Their names also were not released.

The East St. Louis Police Department requested assistance from the Illinois State Police Public Safety Enforcement Group and crime scene services with the investigation of a shooting involving two juveniles shot while inside a residence, according to preliminary information from state police.

There is no further information available at this time, the statement said.

A representative of the East St. Louis Police Department could not be reached for comment.
A drone light show and rows of hundreds of American flags will make for two visually striking Memorial Day tributes this holiday weekend in Mt. Juliet.

The drone show, which creates fireworks-like displays using hundreds of drones, is an emerging entertainment option for big events all around the country. Tom Needham of Needhams Nursery is bringing the show to Mt. Juliet as a new way to pay tribute on the night of Memorial Day, May 27.

The new tech display will follow an old Mt. Juliet standby  the 12th annual Field of Honor featuring hundreds of American flags in rows near the middle of the city.

Here is a look.

Drone Show at Providence Marketplace

Firefly Drone Shows will conduct a drone light show as a Memorial Day tribute in Mt. Juliet organized by business owner Tom Needham.

Detroit-based Firefly Drone Shows will begin launching 200 drones at 9 p.m., Monday, May 27.

Colors and formations are synchronized to music by a programmer who will customize the presentation around Memorial Day with some personal touches Tom has requested, Firefly Drone Shows co-founder and Partner Ryan Sigmon said.

When we started Firefly in 2017, there was just a little bit of awareness, Sigmon said. The last couple of years it has really exploded.

Needham secured a private property on the citys south side just south of the Publix store at 665 South Mt. Juliet Road. The best viewing for the drone show is expected to be south of Interstate 40 along South Mt. Juliet Road, Needham said.

Needham is well-known for heading up Fourth of July fireworks displays in Mt. Juliet for more than 20 years. He has a permit for the drone show.

Memorial Day will also provide a test run to incorporate drones with fireworks into future Fourth of July displays, Needham said.

Lee Greenwood will be the Master of Ceremonies through a taped recording, Needham said.

Firefly Drone Shows will conduct a drone light show as a Memorial Day tribute in Mt. Juliet organized by business owner Tom Needham.

A tribute is also planned for late Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie Daniels and longtime resident of Wilson County who was known for his support of the military that included the Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project that raises money for nonprofits that assist veterans.

Field of Honor

The 12th annual Field of Honor is expected have 350 to 375 American flags this year set up in more than 30 rows of 10 on East Division and North Mt. Juliet Road in an open area by Mt. Juliets train station.

Flags will go up on Thursday, May 23, and will remain until about 4 p.m., Memorial Day.

The display is usually a big draw for picture-takers and it generates plenty of waves and honks from motorists passing by.

The vast majority of flags are sold in memory of a veteran. The Field of Honor is held by the American Legion Tyler Cates Post 281 and the Exchange Club of West Wilson County programs who split the proceeds to support the initiatives each organization is involved in.

Flag kits are available for $35 and can be purchased on site, Co-Chair Nancy Britt said. Some buy flags for their home and members of the American Legion help show proper folding.

The Exchange Club of West Wilson County and American Legion Post 281 hold its Field of Honor for Memorial Day weekend in Mt. Juliet.

A program is also scheduled at 5 p.m., Saturday that will include Mt. Juliet Christian Academy student Abigail Whicker giving a speech which won the American Legion state constitutional oratorical contest.

Well-known area artist Phil Ponder will also give a presentation on the history of the American flag.

Wilson County Memorial Day Service

Multiple veterans' groups will hold a Memorial Day service at 9 a.m., Monday, May 27 at Veterans Plaza at 304 E. Main Street in Lebanon, next to the Wilson County Courthouse.

Jerry Parker, a Vietnam veteran and Gideon spokesman will speak.

Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Memorial Day: Mt. Juliet has American flag display, drone show
Two men accused of plotting knife attack on synagogue in Germany

The word police can be seen on a police vehicle. Marijan Murat/dpa

German authorities have detained an 18-year-old man after he allegedly discussed carrying out a knife attack on a synagogue in the south-western German city of Heidelberg.

The suspect, who comes from the town of Weinheim, is being held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder, public prosecutors and criminal investigators in the south-western German state of Baden-Wurttemberg announced on Friday.

He allegedly plotted the potential attack with another 24-year-old suspect, who was shot and captured by police earlier this month after a raid on the man's flat turned violent.

"The killing of one or more visitors during the attack on the synagogue with a subsequent martyr's death was discussed as the intended goal, in which both people wanted to be shot by emergency services," the authorities said.

On May 3, police raided the home of the 24-year-old suspect in the town of Bad Friedrichshall on suspicion of preparing a serious act of violence endangering the state.

According to police, the 24-year-old suddenly took several kitchen knives and fled outside through a window while officers were in his flat.

He was caught by officers but, instead of surrendering, he threw a knife toward a policeman and charged. The officer shot the man.

The 24-year-old man was treated for his injuries and remains in police custody on allegations of attempted manslaughter and a particularly serious case of assault on police officers.

An analysis of evidence seized during the search revealed a link to the 18-year-old man from Weinheim, with whom the 24-year-old is said to have discussed a possible knife attack on visitors to a synagogue in Heidelberg in April 2024, according to investigators.

The 18-year-old's apartment was searched on May 18. He was arrested and remains in custody.

Authorities said that there are no indications of an imminent threat to visitors to the synagogue.
Two House Republicans lost their primary elections on Tuesday. (Amanda Loman/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

Two incumbent House Republicans lost their jobs in election night blowouts on Tuesday as their caucus and most colleagues stood on the sidelines.

Different factors led to Reps. Charlie Conrad, R-Dexter, and James Hieb, R-Canby, losing their seats: Conrad angered Oregon Right to Life by siding with Democrats on a 2023 law to widen access to abortion and gender-affirming care, while Hieb couldnt compete with 2022 governor nominee Christine Drazan when she decided to return to the Legislature.

But in both cases, House Republican leaders and members largely looked the other way as their colleagues flailed in tough elections. Conrad ended up garnering just 18% of the vote in the 12th House District in rural Lane County, while Hieb received about 31% of the vote in the Canby-based 51st House District.

When I refiled, I stuck with my original goal of trying to be that grounded, middle Republican  pragmatic, solution-oriented, thats pro-choice and protects liberties and going more toward that traditional Republican mindset of small government, low taxes, protecting personal liberties, Conrad said. Clearly, as this result shows, I am not the person, I didnt run the right campaign or a combination of those.

House Minority Leader Jeff Helfrich, R-Hood River, did not return a call. In a prepared statement congratulating Republican candidates who won primaries on Tuesday, he also didnt acknowledge the loss of two caucus members.

Congratulations to all of our Republican candidates who won primaries tonight, Helfrich said in that statement. Together, we can end the radical left wing experiment in Salem and get back to basics with common sense solutions to make Oregon more affordable and safer to live and work. Now is the time for positive change, and Oregon Republicans will lead the way.

Caucus members said the decision to stay out of primary races came down to Helfrich, not the full 25-member Republican caucus. Campaign finance records show House Republicans campaign committee, the Evergreen PAC, contributed to campaigns for several Republicans without primary opponents who are running against Democratic incumbents Republicans view as vulnerable, as well as a $5,000 contribution the day before the May 21 primary to Rep. Cyrus Javadi, R-Tillamook. Javadis understanding is that the contribution was intended for his general election campaign in a swing district, he told the Capital Chronicle.

The loss of two Republican incumbents stood in sharp contrast to the approach taken by House Democrats and their campaign arm, FuturePAC. The PAC provided logistical support for incumbent Democrats and contributed financially to at least one members primary campaign.

I feel like our caucus is united, and we support one another, and I think we have a strong alignment on our values and on our goals and what we want to do to improve the lives of Oregonians, said House Majority Leader Ben Bowman of Tigard. You can see from the results that (Republican caucus members) were not always on the same page, and some of their incumbent legislators will not be returning, so it does look like a different story to me.

McKenzie Bridge businessman Darin Harbick, left, defeated state Rep. Charlie Conrad, R-Dexter, in the Republican primary in the 12th House District. (Campaign photos)

Abortion vote dooms Conrad

A single vote on May 1, 2023, sealed Conrads fate as a one-term representative. After hours of tortured debate and procedural motions on the most contentious bill of the 2023 session, through which Conrad stayed quiet, he pushed a button on his desk in the middle of the House floor and his name lit up in green on a pair of screens.

He explained his vote for House Bill 2002, a lengthy measure that expanded access to abortion and gender-affirming care, in a letter, in an interview with the Capital Chronicle and in conversations with every constituent who has asked about it. In short: Conrad has long supported abortion rights, and he concluded after speaking with doctors and parents of trans children that families and medical providers, not the government, should determine appropriate care for trans people.

Oregon Right to Life, an anti-abortion group thats one of the most powerful forces in state Republican politics, promptly announced a campaign against him. Days after the end of the 2023 legislative session, the organization gathered a small group of supporters for a campaign launch on the banks of the Dexter Reservoir. By the fall, the organization had recruited Darin Harbick, a business owner from McKenzie Bridge who previously ran for the U.S. Senate, to run against Conrad with a campaign entirely built around his vote on House Bill 2002. More than 80% of Republican voters in the district chose Harbick.

One of the things that this shows is that Oregon Right to Life is the Republican Party, Conrad said. Theyre the gatekeeper. Thats unfortunate, because thats only going to polarize things.

Lois Anderson, executive director of Oregon Right to Life, called the word gatekeeper interesting terminology, but didnt disagree with Conrad that her organization held great power in Republican primaries.

Do I think that Oregon Right to Life endorsements and Oregon Right to Life resources in the Republican primaries are meaningful? Absolutely, Anderson said. Representative Conrad made a vote that was just absolutely in conflict with the majority of people in this district, not just in the Republican primary.

Rep. Greg Smith, a Heppner Republican and the longest-serving member of the state House, recalled a similar situation during his first term in 2001. Then-Rep. Cherryl Walker, a freshman Republican from Josephine County, angered Oregon Right to Life by supporting requirements that insurance cover contraceptives, and Republican Dennis Richardson, who went on to become secretary of state, defeated her in the next primary.

Within the Republican caucus, the family and life issue are extraordinarily significant, Smith said. The Second Amendment is significant. And then theres other issues, but really, those two, one could argue, are litmus tests in the Republican caucus.

Conrad felt strongly about his position and discussed it with the Republican caucus, Smith said, and caucus members fully understood the reaction Oregon Right to Life would have. Only two members of the Republican caucus  Javadi and Deputy Leader Mark Owens of Crane  publicly supported Conrad.

Javadi said he considered Conrad one of the best representatives in their freshman legislative class, and that he thought it was important to keep him around.

Charlie represented a legislator who was willing to put Oregon first, and that meant that he was going to put partisan politics second, Javadi said. I thought that the only way forward to really solving our problems was to have leaders like Charlie who would listen to both sides of an argument and really work through things. His mind could be changed with good evidence and good data, and I thought we needed more leadership like that.

Owens said he wasnt surprised by the outcome, but that it was tough to lose Conrad from the caucus. He said he wasnt part of any conversations about the caucus or its campaign arm, the Evergreen PAC, supporting its incumbents in contested primaries, but that it was an obvious choice for him personally to endorse Conrad.

My view was that Charlies one of the most honorable men that Ive ever had the privilege to work with, and Id like to continue to work with him, Owens said.

Harbick, who did not return a call, doesnt have a Democratic challenger.

Former House Republican leader Christine Drazan, left, defeated Rep. James Hieb, who was appointed to replace her. (Courtesy of Drazan campaign; Michael Romanos/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

Drazan returns in 51st District

House Republicans also largely stayed out of the fight between Hieb and Drazan in the 51st District, which was almost a battle of two incumbents. Hieb was appointed to replace Drazan when she stepped down in early 2022 to focus on her unsuccessful campaign for governor, and he won election to a full term later that year.

The Drazan-Hieb race really put the caucus in a difficult situation, having an incumbent versus really another incumbent, Smith said. Even though Drazan had stepped down, she was stepping down for what Republicans would perceive as a greater good.

Hieb campaigned hard to cast himself as the true conservative choice in the Canby-based 51st District, which didnt draw a Democratic candidate. But he proved no match for Drazan, who raised nearly 10 times as much money as he did and has statewide name recognition from her second-place finish in the most expensive gubernatorial race in state history.

Hieb didnt return a call, while Drazan thanked voters in a statement on Thursday.

It was a tremendous honor to have the opportunity to reintroduce myself to House District 51 voters over the past couple of months, and to ultimately earn the support of primary voters, Drazan said. As Ive often said, the future of our state is worth fighting for. Thats why I will continue to advocate for the policies and values I believe in, including cleaning up our streets, being a strong voice for parents in their childrens education, prioritizing local control of our communities, and lowering the cost of living.

Other races

Javadi handily beat back a challenge from retired corrections officer Glenn Gaither, winning more than 70% of the vote in the northern coastal 32nd House District.

I feel like the appetite on the coast is for practical, moderate leadership and my opponent represents the far, far right-wing Republican Party, Javadi said. And I didnt feel like his message was going to resonate at all with the mood of the district.

His tougher race is in the general election, where he faces a rematch with Democrat Logan Laity, a small business marketer who he beat by 2.5 percentage points and fewer than 850 votes in 2022.

Darcey Edwards, a real estate agent from Banks, won the Republican primary for the open 31st House District in rural northwest Oregon. Current Rep. Brian Stout, R-Columbia City, opted not to run for reelection after he was barred from participating in committees following a restraining order brought by a former campaign volunteer.

Stout backed Edwards, who defeated fellow real estate agent Aaron Hall with about 81% of the vote. Edwards will face Democrat Jordan Gutierrez, a tax consultant, in November in the Republican-leaning district.

Michael Newgard, an Army Blackhawk helicopter pilot, beat former legislative aide Sue Leslie with nearly 60% of the vote in the 40th House District in suburban Clackamas County. Hell face freshman Democratic Rep. Annessa Hartman, D-Gladstone, who won the district by just 181 votes in 2022.

The post Two Oregon House Republicans lose primaries without help from GOP caucus, campaign arm appeared first on Oregon Capital Chronicle.
(The Hill)  Two-thirds of American adults said they are concerned extremists will commit acts of violence following the 2024 election if they are unhappy with the results, according to a poll released Thursday.

In a Reuters/Ipsos poll, conducted May 7-14, 68 percent of U.S. adults said they either strongly agree (33 percent) or somewhat agree (35 percent) with the statement, I am concerned that extremists will commit acts of violence after the election if they are unhappy with the election outcome.

Just 15 percent said they either somewhat disagree (10 percent) or strongly disagree (5 percent) with that statement, while 15 percent said they dont know.

This sentiment was especially prevalent among Democrats  83 percent of whom said they either strongly (47 percent) or somewhat (36 percent) agree with concerns about political violence. Only 8 percent said they disagree, and 9 percent said they dont know.

The concern still seemed to transcend party lines  with 65 percent of Republicans agreeing strongly (25 percent) or somewhat (40 percent) with the concerns, and with 69 percent of independents agreeing strongly (34 percent) or somewhat (36 percent) with the concerns.

Among Republicans, 22 percent disagreed with the concerns, while 16 percent of independents disagreed with the concerns. Twelve percent of Republicans and 14 percent of independents said they dont know.

The poll comes ahead of a November rematch between President Biden and former President Trump.

Trump  who still has not publicly recognized Bidens victory in 2020  went to great lengths after losing that election to overturn the results and stay in power. He faces two criminal indictments  one on the federal level and one in Georgia  accusing him of committing crimes related to those efforts.

On Jan. 6, 2021, thousands of Trump supporters, looking to prevent the transfer of power, participated in a violent attack on the Capitol that resulted in multiple deaths.

Trump hinted in a recent Time magazine interview at the possibility of violence if he loses the election  although he insisted hell win a big victory and, therefore, he said, there will be no violence.

And if we dont win, you know, it depends. It always depends on the fairness of an election, Trump added, when pressed later on what would happen if he lost.

A recent poll from Bloomberg/Morning Consult asked voters in seven swing states about the likelihood of political violence during the election and its aftermath. Nearly half (49 percent) said they expected violence.

The Reuters/Ipsos survey included 3,934 American adults and had a margin of error of 1.7 percentage points.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The deadline to make repairs is approaching for the owners of a troubled Las Vegas housing complex. This is while tenants at the Apex Apartments have received eviction notices.

The apartments are located north of UNLV on Twain Avenue near Maryland Parkway.

California-based Pro-Residential Services bought the property in January of 2021, according to county records. The property was then unlicensed and conditions deteriorated.

The owners have 30 days after the issuance of a temporary business license on April 25 to then reapply for a permanent business license, according to a Clark County spokesperson.

Clark County sued the owners in 2022 pointing to deplorable conditions and excessive crime at the complex. The county alleged the owners provided unsafe housing in multiple states while collecting coronavirus rental relief money.

The owners and tenants received a total of $488,000 of coronavirus relief money, also known as CHAP (CARES Housing Assistance Program), according to the county.

In April, the county and the owners reached a settlement. The lawsuit would be dismissed, and the owners are required to make repairs, follow building and fire codes, and pay the county $45,000.

A Clark County District Court judge previously put evictions on hold, but the settlement allows the owners to try to evict tenants who are not paying rent.

Joshua and Jessica Carmack told the 8 News Now Investigators they lived at the property and paid rent regularly before Pro-Residential Services purchased it, but they have not paid rent in months because of the poor conditions.

When they started not doing anything and holding up their end of the lease, well, its a two-way street, Joshua Carmack said. You bought it during a worldwide emergency and then you expected to not do anything. We were all living in our homes for a year at that point, you know we couldnt go anywhere, and you guys just took everything from us: the Wi-Fi, the internet, left us just stuck in a box during a pandemic, and that was horrible.

Jessica Carmack showed the 8 News Now Investigators the 30-day pay or quit notice she received stating she owed nearly $14,000, and specifying that $995 was due for the first two weeks of May. She and her husband said they are planning to file a motion to stay, the first step in the process is to ask a judge to prevent the eviction.

When the 8 News Now Investigators visited the property Thursday, tenants pointed to exposed wiring where they said the fire alarms used to be. Many units and the laundry room were boarded up.

The 8 News Now Investigators asked the county whether help would be offered to tenants to find new housing.

In an email, a spokesperson responded, Clark Countys Social Service Department has attempted to obtain information about how many people might be in need of assistance, but the property manager has instead indicated they will provide contact information for Social Services to those who may be in need.

The 8 News Now Investigators reached out to the property owners three times and have not yet received a response.

By law in Nevada, landlords are required to maintain livable conditions.

Legal Aid of Southern Nevada has information for tenants and landlords.

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Two Wisconsin deputies receive injuries after attempting to arrest man on bond violations

WYOCENA, Wis. (WFRV)  A 46-year-old Wisconsin man was taken into custody on Friday after an animal welfare complaint led to authorities discovering he broke his bond by consuming alcoholic beverages.

According to the Columbia County Sheriffs Office, deputies responded to a residence in the town of Wyocena and while following up on the complaint, they made contact with the resident, identified as 46-year-old Brent Paul.

Wisconsin man who broke into a probation and parole office to steal vehicle arrested after pursuit

During contact with Paul, the deputy became aware that he had several open cases with felony bond conditions that prohibited him from consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages.

The deputy observed indicators that Paul was impaired and passed alcoholic beverages and attempted to take him into custody for violating his bond.

However, Paul was resistant to the deputy and tried fighting him off. The struggle continued for several minutes before backup arrived. A Taser was deployed, and Paul was eventually taken into custody without further incident.

22-year-old Sheboygan man accused of shooting gun during domestic disturbance

A search of Pauls residence revealed several firearms, something he is prohibited from possessing. He was taken to the Columbia County Jail and booked on several charges, including battery to law enforcement and resisting an officer causing soft tissue injury.

Two deputies received injuries requiring medical treatment due to Pauls active resistance during the attempt to take him into custody.

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UVALDE (Nexstar)  Two million dollars is hollow penance to Javier Cazares. Two years ago, his 9-year-old daughter Jackie was attending an award ceremony and counting the days until summer break. She would soon die on the way to the hospital after law enforcement void of urgency left her bleeding on the classroom floor. Two years later, two million is too little, too late.

On May 24, 2022, an 18-year-old with a rifle ended Jackies dreams and stopped the clock on a town still trying to find its way forward. But the message from the families this week was focused on the surrounding failures, which they say occurred long before and after the gunman fired.

Uvalde families sue Texas DPS officers, reach settlement with city

Were tired. Of course, they could do a lot more. But I cant emphasize this enough: Its not about the money, Javier said this Tuesday after the families announced their settlement with the city. We can never be 100% satisfied. I mean, we dont have a daughter here How can we move forward? Or heal correctly?

Thats the question hanging over the entire Uvalde community. Theres a tension in the town nowadays  between the past and future, between the families relentless fight for accountability and their neighbors who would prefer everything go back to normal.

Normalcy not an option. It will take generations for Uvalde to dull the pain left on May 24. But for the small town of 15,000, some are growing irritated with the constant lawsuits and publicity.

Its churning up a slight division or resentment in the community by those who initially showed support but might be getting weary of having their town synonymous with a mass shooting, the families attorney Josh Koskoff said. Its just a casualty of this mass shooting epidemic we have that transforms towns like Uvalde into pariahs.

Uvalde is hoping for a more positive transformation. The Uvalde CISD Moving Forward Foundation is championing the efforts to build a brand new, state-of-the-art school for the next generation of children. They broke ground in February and hope to complete construction by fall 2025.

Its big for our town. Its something that we know we probably wouldnt have gotten without the tragedy, but now, hopefully, this will be able to serve our children and our community for the next 75, 100 years, Uvalde Justice of the Peace Lalo Diaz said. Its not just a cookie cutter school this design is ours. It was brought up by Uvalde individuals for our children, so hopefully it is something that we can be proud of.

Renderings of new Uvalde school include tribute to Robb Elementary victims

The foundation is relying on mostly private donations to fund the construction. They have received $10 million from H-E-B and $15 million from the state, the foundations executive director, Tim Miller, said. But its a $60 million project, and they are still $20 million short. The foundation accepts donations here.

The school will serve the future, but do little for the families forever stuck in May 24, 2022. For them, its still early in their path toward peace. The next step involves a major lawsuit against all 92 Texas DPS officers who responded to Robb Elementary that day. Of the nearly 400 law enforcement officers on the scene, DPS accounted for about a quarter of them. The families are seeking accountability for the failures of communication, leadership and urgency that they believe cost some of their children their lives.

Its hard. Its difficult. All we can do is hope to do the right thing, Cazares said. It became my lifes mission that day.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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U.S., allies call for Taiwan to be allowed to take part in WHO meeting

By Ben Blanchard

TAIPEI (Reuters) - The United States and several of its allies, including Britain, Canada, Australia, Germany and Japan, issued a joint statement on Friday calling on Taiwan to be allowed to take part in a key meeting of the World Health Organisation next week.

Taiwan is excluded from most international organisations because of objections by China, which considers the democratically governed island its territory.

Taiwan attended the WHO's World Health Assembly (WHA) as an observer from 2009 to 2016 under the administration of then-President Ma Ying-jeou, who signed landmark trade and tourism agreements with China.

But Beijing began blocking Taiwan's participation in 2017, after former President Tsai Ing-wen won office, for her refusal to agree to China's position that both China and Taiwan are part of "one China".

"As this year's 77th session of the World Health Assembly commences in Geneva, Taiwan remains largely excluded from the world's international health system," said the joint statement issued by the de facto embassies of the United States and others in Taipei.

"Inviting Taiwan as an observer would best exemplify the WHO's commitment to an inclusive, 'health for all' approach to international health cooperation," it said.

"Taiwan's isolation from the WHA, the preeminent global health forum, is unjustified and undermines inclusive global public health cooperation and security, which the world demands."

Speaking in Taipei, Taiwan Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan said a delegation would travel to Geneva for meetings on the sidelines with friendly countries.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung blamed China for Taiwan's exclusion, saying health should not be politicised.

"We hope to improve relations across the Taiwan Strait, but we cannot sacrifice Taiwan's sovereignty," he said.

The United States and some of its most important allies, which do not have formal diplomatic ties with Taipei, have repeatedly called for Taiwan to be allowed to take part, infuriating Beijing.

China's foreign ministry said that given Taiwan's government won't accept the "one China" principle, there is no "political basis" for its WHA participation.

Taiwan's government says Beijing has no right to speak for or represent Taiwan on the international stage.

China detests Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office on Monday. Beijing calls him a "separatist", and on Thursday launched two days of war games near the island to express anger at his inauguration speech.

The WHO has said that Taiwan's participation is a matter for member states to decide, and that it "facilitates the involvement of Taiwanese experts in WHO technical activities".

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Additional reporting by Joe Cash in Beijing; Editing by Christian Schmollinger, Gerry Doyle and Peter Graff)
A staff member introduces an electric off-road motorcycle made of ultra-light carbon fiber materials during the 2022 Chongqing International Auto Exhibition in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, June 25, 2022. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

"This dominance in the Turkish market reflects the escalating influence and popularity of Chinese motorcycles across the globe," said Baris Acar, owner of a motorcycle gallery in Istanbul.

ISTANBUL, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Located beside a bustling avenue on the Asian side of Istanbul, a motorcycle gallery exhibits a remarkable collection of Chinese brands, capturing the attention of both seasoned riders and curious enthusiasts.

Baris Acar, the gallery owner, has noticed a significant trend toward Chinese brands in the Turkish market since he launched his showroom in 2016.

Currently, 13 of the 14 brands featured in the showroom are from China, with approximately 100 models on display, highlighting China's substantial presence in the Turkish market, said Acar.

"This dominance in the Turkish market reflects the escalating influence and popularity of Chinese motorcycles across the globe," he told Xinhua while introducing the newest models at his gallery.

In Acar's view, Chinese manufacturers are rapidly evolving their product lines, offering new, esthetically pleasing high-tech models at competitive prices.

"The Chinese market's expansive nature ensures a steady influx of fresh offerings to Turkiye, ranging from smaller 50cc engines to larger 800cc models," he said.

The price ranges span from an average of 40,000 Turkish liras (1,240 U.S. dollars) to 700,000 liras (21,741 dollars).

Since the beginning of 2024, Acar has sold approximately 1,500 Chinese motorcycles.

"That's quite an impressive number," Acar said, noting that his sales reflect the growing preference for Chinese motorcycles throughout Turkiye.

According to the Turkish Statistical Institute, the number of motorcycles registered to traffic increased by 31.5 percent in April from one year earlier.

The data further revealed that out of 196,309 vehicles registered to traffic last month, motorcycles constituted 54.3 percent of the total.

Deniz Evren, an avid Turkish rider, drives a CFMOTO motorcycle, a Chinese brand, with a 700cc twin-cylinder, boasting approximately 73 horsepower.

"There's an engine that exudes strength, a powerhouse beneath the surface. Moreover, the braking system instills confidence with its responsiveness, ensuring safety with every touch," Evren spoke of his motorcycle to Xinhua.

Evren is also delighted by the availability of spare parts, which can swiftly meet any maintenance requirements.

Semih Eryukseldi, an industry veteran with nearly 14 years of experience in the automobile sector in Istanbul, accentuated the unique strategic approach adopted by Chinese manufacturers.

"This approach involves importing motorbike components from China and then assembling them in Turkish factories, showcasing a blend of global collaboration," Eryukseldi told Xinhua.

"This strategy not only capitalizes on China's manufacturing capabilities, but also facilitates localized assembly, showcasing China's leadership in the sector," he said.
The Pentagon announced a $275 million package of weaponry for Ukraine on Friday as calls for loosening restrictions on the use of the weapons have increased in recent days.

The military aid package, the fifth since President Joe Biden signed a foreign aid bill in April and the 58th since 2021, will include artillery supplies, ammunition for the HIMARS rocket launching system, anti-tank weapons and other materiel, the Pentagon said.

In its announcement, the Pentagon called the bundle a significant new security assistance package to meet Ukraines critical security and defense needs.

The weaponry comes as Ukraine faces the aftereffects of aid being delayed for six months as Republicans attempted to leverage it in return for concessions on border security by the White House and Democrats.

Russia has slowly continued to push forward in the eastern part of the country and has started an offensive to put the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, within reach of artillery. After some initial Russian gains, Ukraine says it has stabilized the defense of the city.

But Russias staging of the attack from its side of the border, only 12 miles away from Kharkiv, has highlighted what an increasing number of U.S. lawmakers say is an unneeded restraint on Ukraine: the U.S. demand that it not use American weapons beyond the countrys borders.

The restriction has been seen as one way to avoid military escalation between the U.S. and Russia, and Ukraine has abided by it. But critics say the move toward Kharkiv shows how Russia is leveraging that restraint to its advantage.

Ukraine has been limited to its own missiles and drones to defend its territory from artillery and missile attacks from across the border, and it has seen Russia use the border to amass and stage troops to move into Ukraine.

Will you change this policy so Ukraine can fight without one hand tied behind his back? Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), the chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, asked Secretary of State Antony Blinken at a hearing Wednesday.

When it comes to enabling, endorsing attacks outside of Ukraine, thats not something weve done, but Ukraine will have to make and will make its own decisions, Blinken said.

They cannot achieve victory with these restrictions that you, not the Congress, have placed on them, McCaul fired back.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) appeared to lend his voice to that chorus as well Wednesday, telling reporters, They need to be able to fight back. And I think us trying to micromanage the effort there, its not a good policy for us.

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), the Democratic leader in the House, sounded a softer but similar note Thursday.

Jeffries said the U.S. needs to be as aggressively supportive as possible of Ukraine, but the specific question of cross-border strikes was something to be worked out, at the moment, between the Ukrainian government and the Biden administration.

Johnsons and Jeffries comments came only days after Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), chair of the House Intelligence Committee, signed a letter along with 12 other House members asking for the restriction to be lifted.

Related...
On November 15, 2023, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation (MCN) filed suit against the city of Tulsa for continuing to assert criminal jurisdiction over Native Americans on the Mvskoke reservation. On May 13 the United States filed a motion to intervene in the case, supporting the MCN.

According to the filing,

This case involves Tulsas continued assertion of criminal jurisdiction, without congressional authorization, over Indians for conduct occurring within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Reservation. Tulsas assertion of such jurisdiction violates fundamental principles of federal Indian law deeply rooted in the United States Constitution. The longstanding rule  recently reiterated in McGirt v. Oklahoma, is that the states and their political subdivisions lack criminal jurisdiction over Indians in Indian country absent congressional authorization. Because Congress has not authorized Oklahoma or Tulsa to exercise such jurisdiction, that rule applies with full force here.

Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning.

The motion seeks a declaration that Tulsa lacks criminal jurisdiction over Native Americans within the Mvskoke Reservation and Tulsas assertion of jurisdiction violates federal law. In addition, the filing requests that Tulsa be permanently enjoined from asserting criminal jurisdiction and prosecuting Native Americans on the reservation absent authorization from congress.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
By Francois Murphy and John Irish

VIENNA/PARIS (Reuters) - The U.S. and its three top European allies are divided over whether to confront Iran at the U.N. nuclear watchdog by seeking a resolution against it and thereby risk further escalation, with the Europeans in favour, diplomats say.

It is 18 months since the International Atomic Energy Agency's 35-nation Board of Governors last passed a resolution against Iran, ordering it to cooperate urgently with a years-long IAEA investigation into uranium particles found at three undeclared sites.

While the number of sites in question has been narrowed to two, Iran still has not explained the traces, and the number of other problems in Iran has risen including Tehran barring many of the IAEA's top uranium-enrichment experts on the inspection team.

A quarterly Board of Governors meeting begins in 10 days.

"It's extremely difficult with Iran and the level of violations is unprecedented ... There is no slowing down of its programme and there is no real goodwill by Iran to cooperate with the IAEA," a senior European diplomat said.

"All our indicators are flashing red."

Concern about Iran's atomic activities has been high for some time. It has been enriching uranium to 60% purity, close to the roughly 90% that is weapons-grade, for three years. It has enough material enriched to that level, if refined further, for three nuclear bombs, according to an IAEA yardstick.

Western powers say there is no credible civilian energy purpose in enriching to that level, and the IAEA says no other country has done so without making a nuclear weapon. Iran says its objectives are entirely peaceful.

The United States, however, has not wanted to seek another resolution against Iran at recent IAEA board meetings. Before the last one, in March, the European powers - France, Britain and Germany, known as the "E3" - disagreed with Washington on whether to seek a resolution but then backed down.

Officials often cite the U.S. presidential election as a reason for the Biden administration's reluctance.

But the main argument U.S. officials make is to avoid giving Iran a pretext to respond by escalating its nuclear activities, as it has done in the past.

Tensions in the Middle East are running particularly high with Israel continuing its military campaign in Gaza in response to Hamas's Oct. 7 attack. Israel and Iran carried out direct strikes on each other for the first time last month, and Israel has repeatedly threatened to attack Iran's nuclear facilities.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash on Sunday has complicated the situation. In talks aimed at improving Iran's cooperation with the IAEA, Tehran told the Vienna-based agency this week it would not engage with it until Raisi's successor is elected on June 28, two diplomats said.

"A resolution has been prepared," another senior European diplomat said. Others confirmed the E3 had prepared a draft but not circulated it to Board members.

"Our analysis is the death of Raisi changes nothing. We have to move forward with this resolution ... The Americans are the difficulty, and in our conversations we continue to do everything to convince them."

It was unclear when a decision on whether to seek a resolution would be reached. The next quarterly IAEA reports on Iran are due early next week. Draft resolutions tend to refer to those reports' findings.

(Reporting by Francois Murphy in Vienna and John Irish in Paris; writing by Francois Murphy; editing by Mark Heinrich)
(Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

How much access should a person have to abortion pills? And should doctors in states with abortion bans be able to perform the procedure during medical emergencies?

Two cases that the United States Supreme Court is expected to rule on this summer could answer these questions and have a ripple effect on abortion access nationwide.

One case challenges ease of access to abortion medication while another challenges whether a federal law concerning emergency care supersedes a states abortion ban. Its the first time the nations highest court has reviewed abortion-related cases since overturning federal protections two summers ago.

Mary Ziegler, a legal historian who has written about abortion law, noted that the emergency room case in particular can be a game changer pending its ruling.

Whatever the Supreme Court decides will have an effect on how a lot of states abortion bans are interpreted, she said.

Idaho v. The United States

This case could determine whether a federal statute outweighs a states abortion ban when it comes to emergency medical care.

Idaho officials are seeking to disregard the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, otherwise known as EMTALA.

The nearly 40 year old federal law requires hospitals with emergency rooms that receive Medicare funding to provide stabilizing treatment to anyone experiencing emergency medical conditions. Most hospitals in the nation receive Medicare funding, and therefore would be subject to EMTALA.

Plaintiffs in the case say this is at odds with Idahos own abortion law, though.

Idaho enforces its abortion ban with criminal penalties up to five years in prison for people who perform them or assist people in getting them. There are limited exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the pregnant person, excluding protections for pregnancy complications.

Doctors in Idaho have been sending pregnant patients out-of-state to comply with the states abortion law. During such medical emergencies, some patients are air-lifted out of the state.

Dr. Stacy Seyb, a maternal fetal medicine specialist in Boise, explained that its become a safer alternative to send a pregnant patient elsewhere should they suspect an emergency abortion may be needed.

There are times they may not even need the procedure. But we cant predict that, and we cant predict how quickly their status might change, Seyb told Idaho Capital Sun. I think its a great hardship, its an extra expense to our medical system, and it doesnt make sense why something that Ive been doing for 30 years of my career is now taboo.

Countering this, President Joe Bidens administration argues that EMTALA should protect doctors should abortion be needed as stabilizing treatment in emergencies. Plaintiffs in the case from Idaho argue that interpretation of EMTALA could make it too easy for patients to get abortions.

When visiting Richmond earlier this year, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra said that the Biden Administration would pull every lever to protect reproductive healthcare access  such as defending EMTALA in the case against Idaho.

In line with the administrations support for protecting abortion access, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services launched a new option on the CMS.gov website for people to file complaints if they feel EMTALA has not been upheld.

While a ruling in the case would only apply to Idaho, it may set a precedent for more than 20 other states which have deep abortion restrictions or near total bans. As the least restrictive southern state, Virginias Planned Parenthood is already reporting a 30% increase in out-of-state patients.

Jamie Lockhart, the director of the Virginia League of Planned Parenthood, thinks the number of patients traveling for abortions outside of their home state could increase.

When and if the Supreme Court allows Idaho to do this  then its going to be Texas, and its going to be Mississippi, and Alabama, and just across the South, Lockhart said.

It concerns her, especially as she thinks about the broader maternal health outcome disparities for patients of color, in part due to racial bias, and people living in rural communities that already have to travel further for care to begin with.

Meanwhile, the other abortion-related case before the Supreme Court could make it more difficult to obtain abortion medication.

FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine

The outcome of this case could affect ease of access to a common drug used in early-gestation abortions  which make up roughly two-thirds of abortions nationwide.

First approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2000, mifepristone is the first part of medicine-induced abortions or miscarriage-related care. Mifepristone blocks a hormone thats needed to continue a pregnancy and another drug, misoprostol, is administered after to help bodies expel tissue. The drugs typically are used for abortions under 10 weeks of gestation, but are also used to manage miscarriages to help prevent deadly infections.

Abortion-opposing physicians and organizations previously argued in lower courts that the FDA should not have approved mifepristone 24 years ago. Now, they argue that the drug should not have become easier to access in 2016 and 2021. The FDA changes from those years increased the limit of when it could be used from seven to 10 weeks of gestation and allowed for telehealth prescriptions, respectively.

Those provisions could be affected if the court ruled in favor of the plaintiffs.

Patients in Virginia would be forced to receive this care in person rather than via a telehealth appointment  which we know places undue and medically unnecessary barriers to care for people across Virginia who struggled to travel long distances to receive care, Lockhart said.

However, when the case was heard by the Supreme Court this spring, it seemed likely the judges would preserve access to the medication. The justices may decide the plaintiffs lack the legal standing to sue.

But Zeigler, the legal scholar, cautions that a favorable ruling to abortion advocates in the mifepristone case may not be the end of challenges to the drug and abortion at-large.

A potential future case is building

Attempts to enforce the Comstock Act  a dormant federal law from 1873  have been surfacing in local governments around the country. Grayson County in Southwest Virginia voted down a measure last year, while a case in New Mexico has advanced to that states supreme court.

The 19th Century act prohibits the mailing of obscene or lewd materials such as pornography, as well as contraception and every article or thing designed, adapted, or intended for producing abortion.

Over the years Congress chipped away at the act, but the abortion components have remained.

Now, theyve emerged in modern-day arguments against the procedure.

Proponents of implementing the act interpret it as a way to stop the mailing of abortion medications and materials needed to perform an abortion or establish a clinic. Local governments have considered ordinances that employ the act.

Mark Lee Dickson, the architect of the national movement, told the Richmond Times-Dispatch last summer that the ordinances are simply requiring compliance with these federal statutes, which we believe completely stops abortion in communities.

Dickson travels the country meeting with local officials who are interested in invoking the act. He and legal ally, former Texas Solicitor General Jonathan Mitchell, offer their representation in the case of legal challenges.

Dickson said this offer goes up to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Justices Thomas Alito and Clarence Thomas recently mentioned Comstock while hearing the FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine case.

Conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation also offers guidance for national abortion restrictions. Its series of policy goals called Project 2025 has included the legal code for Comstock without naming the law specifically.

Calling abortion medication a gift to the abortion industry, the guidebook asserts that the FDA should stop promoting or approving mail-order abortions in violation of long-standing federal laws that prohibit the mailing and interstate carriage of abortion drugs.

While Comstock itself has not yet made it to the Supreme Court in the form of its own case, Ziegler noted how the issue is gaining salience.

Now, I think youre seeing it as, you know, a major election issue and something that a lot of Republicans say a (President Donald Trump Department of Justice) would do, Zeigler said. Of course, Trump has essentially avoided answering the question.

While many GOP congressional candidates, including in Virginia, have said abortion regulation is a state-level issue, Democrats hope to proactively shore up federal protections legislatively. Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine has pressed to codify protections through the Reproductive Healthcare For All Act and Biden has made abortion protections a pillar of his reelection campaign.

Should Democrats retain the White House and make gains in Congress, they could enact various protections. But the Supreme Court still has a conservative majority that could continue its pattern of taking up legal challenges to abortion access.

The post These U.S. Supreme Court cases could affect abortion access nationwide appeared first on Virginia Mercury.
The U.S. Supreme Court is seen on March 25, 2022. (Photo by Quentin Young/Colorado Newsline)

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

A federal court clearly erred in determining that South Carolina legislators racially gerrymandered congressional voting lines to keep the coastal First District red, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Thursday in sending the case back to the three-judge panel for further analysis on a separate question.

Justice Samuel Alito, writing for the majority, repeatedly used the terms clearly erred and clearly erroneous in rejecting the lower courts reasoning for its 2023 ruling that the lines were unconstitutionally drawn.

To sum up our analysis so far, no direct evidence supports the District Courts finding that race predominated in the design of District 1, Alito wrote, further calling the lower courts approach seriously misguided.

Advocates for the plaintiffs decried the ruling, saying the high court broke its own precedent by ignoring the lower courts findings and made future challenges for racial discrimination more difficult.

In this redistricting case, the question was whether the GOP-controlled Legislature based its admittedly partisan aim on voters race as they moved precincts between the First and Sixtth districts.

The Legislatures GOP leaders testified that the goal was to make the First District safer for a Republican, following a narrow flip to blue in 2018 and a similarly narrow flip back to red in 2020. The staffer who chiefly drew the map said he used political data on precincts that voted Democratic in 2020 to move the lines. Their testimony easily explains the final map, the majority of justices concluded.

The opinion noted the map was drawn with input from U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, the states longest-serving congressman and only Democrat, whose recommendations would have preserved the strong Democratic tilt in his adjoining Sixth District.

The Sixth, which has been a majority-minority district since the post-1990-census redistricting, already spanned counties from Columbia to Charleston, while the First spanned the states southern coastline.

The changes put all of Beaufort and Berkeley counties in the First District, as well as more of the Republican parts of Dorchester County. Charleston County was further split between the two districts, with the Sixth District given more of West Ashley and the entire peninsula, to include uber expensive homes South of Broad.

In all, 193,000 South Carolinians were moved between the two districts. The final map achieved the Legislatures political goal of increasing the GOP advantage in District 1, as the projected Republican voter share rose 1.4 percentage points to 54.4%, reads the majority ruling.

The circumstantial evidence falls far short of showing that race, not partisan preferences, drove the districting process, and none of the expert reports offered by the challengers provides any significant support for their position, Alito wrote.

Political malpractice

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, whose testimony was cited by justices, contends the First District is still politically competitive.

I said it would have been political malpractice for us to sacrifice the First [District], the Edgefield Republican told reporters Thursday about his testimony. We were not going to pass a plan that sacrificed the First, but that was all about political calculations. And that was the case because those were the rules the Supreme Court set out.

Justice Elena Kagan, who wrote the 34-page dissenting opinion, was joined by liberal Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, the courts newest member.

Kagan scoffed at the majoritys reasoning.

The challengers introduced more than enough evidence of racial gerrymandering to support the district courts judgment, she wrote. The majority picks and chooses evidence to its liking; ignores or minimizes less convenient proof; disdains the panels judgments about witness credibility; and makes a series of mistakes about expert opinions.

Map makers obviously used data on race to achieve the desired Republican tilt, she wrote, pointing to the percentage of Black residents 18 and older in the First District. Despite all the precinct moves, the districts racial balance did not budge.

The Black voting-age population in the district went from 16.6% to 16.7%. Such a constant would not have been possible without the use of racial data, she wrote.

The case will return to the lower court to re-evaluate challengers separate claim of the redrawn lines diluting the Black vote. Alito said the judges ruling on that was tied to the faulty reasoning on racial gerrymandering.

In light of our conclusion that those findings were clearly erroneous, that conclusion cannot stand, wrote Alito, who spent several pages of his opinion dismissing Kagans criticisms.

Stereotypes

Justice Clarence Thomas agreed with most of Alitos conclusions but wrote a separate opinion disagreeing that any further analysis on voter dilution is needed.

The complaint combines two stereotypes by assuming that black South Carolinians can be properly represented only by a black Democrat, Thomas wrote. The vote dilution analysis in this case inevitably reduces black Charlestonians to partisan pawns and racial tokens. The analysis is demeaning to the courts asked to perform it, to say nothing of the black voters that it stereotypes.

The three lower court judges  Richard Gergel, Mary Geiger Lewis and T,oby Heytens  ruled in January 2023 that state lawmakers drew the coastal First District, held by Republican Nancy Mace, in a way that discriminates against Black voters.

The judicial panel sided with the NAACP, ACLU of South Carolina, and Taiwan Scott, a Black Hilton Head Island resident who lives in the First District, who challenged the new lines following the 2020 census with arguments they violated the Constitutions Fourteenth and Fifteenth amendments.

Its as though we dont matter, but we do matter, and our voices should be heard, Scott told reporters after the ruling. Its sad to see the decision after, you know, three federal judges ruled we were racially gerrymandered. But we wont stop.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruling changes nothing for this years elections.

The lower courts ruling last year put South Carolinas congressional elections on hold until a new map was drawn. But in late March, the judges reluctantly agreed to let this years elections continue as scheduled with the Legislatures 2022 map, since the nations high court had yet to weigh in and candidate filing for the June party primaries was just days from concluding.

In the First District, three Republicans, including Mace, and two Democrats are competing in the June 11 primaries. In the Sixth District, Clyburn has no primary challenger. Two Republicans are facing off for the opportunity to challenge him in November. But Clyburn, first elected in 1992, is expected to easily win a seventeenth term.

Next steps

The chief attorney for the NAACP legal defense fund said the group is still assessing next moves.

There is a potential avenue for plaintiffs to try to redress the harm of the racially discriminatory map, Leah Aden, who argued the case before the nations high court, told reporters. But what we will do and what that will look like, I think we are still wrapping our heads around now.

Officials with the ACLU pledged that the fight will continue.

Today is a dark day for democracy in South Carolina, but all hope is not lost, said Jace Woodrum, executive director of the ACLUs state branch. For now, the Supreme Court has upheld a racially gerrymandered map, and South Carolina voters are the ones who will suffer the consequences.  We remain committed to ending gerrymandering in our state and will use every tool at our disposal until We the People truly means all of us.

This story first appeared in the South Carolina Daily Gazette, an affiliate of the Phoenix through the nonprofit States Newsroom network. Reporters Abraham Kenmore and Skylar Laird contributed.

The post U.S. Supreme Court throws out SC racial gerrymandering ruling appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs hearing on the fiscal year 2025 budget request for the Department of Defense at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC on Wednesday. On Thursday, he announced punitive measures targeting Georgia over its recently passed foreign influence bill. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

May 24 (UPI) -- The Biden administration said it will impose visa restrictions and review the United States' relationship with Georgia in response to the former Soviet republic last week passing a controversial foreign influence bill.

The bill, which is labeled as a national security law, requires non-government organizations, media outlets and other entities to register as foreign agents if they receive more than 20% of their funding from foreign sources.

It was passed May 14 by Georgia's Parliament, which is controlled by the ruling Georgia Dream Party, despite staunch opposition at home and abroad.

President Salome Zourabichvili, an independent, on Saturday vetoed the bill, which she described as "fundamentally Russian" and in contradiction to Georgia's Constitution and the European Union's standards. However, lawmakers appear to have the votes to override her.

The United States has criticized the bill as has the European Union, which said it runs counter to the EU's "core norms and values."

Georgia in November was granted candidate country status to the EU, and the 27-member bloc said the law "negatively impacts" its progress to inclusion.

On Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said they have seen "clear indications of a campaign of intimidation and the use of violence" to suppress protests against the bill. He continued that those tactics as well as the so-called nationals security law undermine Georgia's democracy and fundamental freedoms.

"In response to these actions, the Department of State is implementing a new visa-restriction policy for Georgia that will apply to individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia, as well as their family members," he said in a statement.

"I am also launching today a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation between the United States and Georgia."

Blinken stated that anyone "who undermines democratic processes or institutions in Georgia -- including in the lead-up to, during and following Georgia's October 2024 elections -- may be found ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy."

The United States' top diplomat said U.S. support for Georgia's democracy is foundational to their bilateral relationship, and that they hope its leaders will reconsider the bill.

"As we review the relationship between our two countries, we will take into account Georgia's actions in deciding our own," he said.

The announcement comes a day after Blinken testified before the House Foreign Relations Committee in Washington, during which he was asked what the United States was doing to address the bill.

He said the Biden administration was "very concerned" about the law, stating he thinks it's "right out of Moscow's playbook."

"I think it clearly counters the desire of the overwhelming majority of Georgians to move toward EU integration," he said.

"We are looking very hard at what we can do in response to that. I anticipate we will take action."
U.S. tourist jailed in Turks and Caicos on ammunition charges is freed

May 24 (UPI) -- An American tourist who was facing up to 12 years in jail in Turks and Caicos for having 20 rounds of ammunition in his luggage was released Friday.

Bryan Hagerich of Pennsylvania was one of five Americans facing ammunition charges in the British territory. He was arrested in February while vacationing with his wife and two children.

Hagerich pleaded guilty to possessing 20 rifle rounds, which were found in his checked bag by Turks and Caicos authorities. He spent eight nights in jail but was released on bail.

At his sentencing hearing, Judge Tanya Lobban Jackson of the nation's Supreme Court sentenced him to 52 weeks suspended, which means he will not serve any jail time. He will have to pay a $6,700 fine.

Jackson said Hagerich's case had "exceptional circumstances" and cited the impact his arrest had on his daughter and the fact that he had no prior criminal history.

Hagerich said the rounds were used for hunting, and he didn't know he had them in his travel bag.

Turks and Caicos recently passed legislation that forbids bringing unauthorized weapons and ammunition into the country. The charge carries a mandatory minimum 12-year sentence.

In response to Hagerich's release, Turks and Caicos Prime Minister Charles Washington Misick said justice had been "served as the law intended."

"Today's decision reflects our commitment to judicial independence along with upholding the law," Misick said in a statement. "Residents and visitors can be confident that the Turks and Caicos Islands are dedicated to safety and compassion as we protect the safety and rights of all."

Misick also said the new punishment for unauthorized weapons and ammunition has never been imposed and could be overturned in "exceptional circumstances."

Three other Americans are still detained and awaiting trial in the Caribbean nation for similar charges.

A fifth person, Sharitta Grier, was arrested for having two rounds in her carry-on luggage earlier in May. The Florida grandmother was allowed to return to the United States for medical reasons. Her court appearance is scheduled for July.

The string of arrests caught the attention of American legislators, who visited Turks and Caicos this week in an attempt to bring the remaining people home.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., in a statement thanked the judge for her leniency in Hagerich's case.

"When we met with TCI officials a few days ago, they made clear that they wanted this situation resolved," Fetterman said. "They recognized that Bryan and the other detained Americans are not gun-runners -- they are just people who made a mistake."

Pennsylvania Republican Guy Reschenthaler, who represents Hagerich's district, said on X that he was "overjoyed" to see Hagerich returned to his family, but that "this terrifying situation should have never happened to him."

Before Friday's sentencing, Reschenthaler urged the State Department to issue a no-travel warning for Turks and Caicos.

The State Department has a Level 2 travel advisory for Turks and Caicos, which advises travelers to "exercise increased caution" and to "carefully check their luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons."
UAW President Shawn Fain, center, speaks with Mercedes workers in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on May 17, 2024 after workers at two Alabama Mercedes-Benz factories voted overwhelmingly against joining the United Auto Workers union. (AP Photo/Kim Chandler)

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  The United Auto Workers on Friday accused Mercedes of interfering in a union election at two Alabama factories by intimidating and coercing workers into voting no.

A week after Mercedes workers voted against joining the union, the labor group filed an objection with the National Labor Relations Board seeking a new vote. The union accused the company of engaging in a relentless antiunion campaign marked with unlawful discipline, unlawful captive audience meetings, and a general goal of coercing and intimidating employees.

Over 2,000 Mercedes workers voted yes to win their union after an unprecedented, illegal anti-union campaign waged against them by their employer. What that tells us is that in a fair fight, where Mercedes is held accountable to following the law, workers will win their union, the UAW said in a statement.

All these workers ever wanted was a fair shot at having a voice on the job and a say in their working conditions. And thats what were asking for here. Lets get a vote at Mercedes in Alabama where the company isnt allowed to fire people, isnt allowed to intimidate people, and isnt allowed to break the law and their own corporate code, and let the workers decide.

A Mercedes-Benz spokesperson emailed a company statement that said more than 90% of team members voted in the election, and a majority indicated they are not interested in being represented by the UAW for purposes of collective bargaining.

"Our goal throughout this process was to ensure every eligible Team Member had the opportunity to participate in a fair election. We sincerely hoped the UAW would respect our Team Members decision. Throughout the election, we worked with the NLRB to adhere to its guidelines and we will continue to do so as we work through this process," the statement read.

Employees at Mercedes battery and assembly plants near Tuscaloosa voted 56% against the union. The result handed the union a setback in its efforts to unionize workers at auto plants in the Deep South. The defeat in Alabama came a month after the UAW scored a breakthrough victory at Volkswagens 4,300-worker assembly factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The union filing said that four pro-union employees were fired, and the company allowed anti-union employees to solicit support during work hours but forbade pro-union employees from soliciting support during work hours.

The company also required workers to attend anti-union captive-audience meetings and displayed anti-union propaganda while prohibiting the distribution of union materials and paraphernalia in non-work areas, according to the objection.

The union said the company, or its representatives, polled workers about union support, suggested voting in the union would be futile, targeted union supporters with drug tests and engaged in conduct which deliberately sought to exacerbate racial feelings by irrelevant and inflammatory appeals to racial prejudice.

A spokeswoman for the National Labor Relations Board confirmed an objection had been filed. Kayla Blado, a spokeswoman for the NLRB, said the regional director will review the objections and could order a hearing. If it is determined that the employers conduct affected the election, a new election could be ordered, she said.
Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, presides over the 19th fortnightly consultation session held by the 14th CPPCC National Committee in Beijing, capital of China, May 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, on Friday held a fortnightly consultation session to discuss forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, presided over the session.

To foster a strong sense of community and a shared sense of belonging for the Chinese nation, it is imperative to follow the guidance of the core socialist values and promote interactions, exchanges and integration among all ethnic groups, Wang said.

Calling for increased research and proposals in this regard, Wang urged political advisors to contribute their insights toward building China's independent systems of historical records, discourse, and theory for the community of the Chinese nation.

Ten political advisors and experts voiced their opinions at the meeting. Highlighting the role of civilization, culture, and language, they called for constant efforts to nurture a shared sense of belonging for the Chinese nation.

They also proposed efforts to forge a strong cultural identity and promote high-quality development of ethnic minority areas, among others. 
A white board at UAW headquarters in Coaling, Alabama says "Onward" on Friday, May 17, 2024. Local Mercedes-Benz workers in Vance voted against unionizing. (Laura Chramer for Alabama Reflector)

The National Labor Relations Board said Friday afternoon it had received a complaint from the United Auto Workers about last weeks union election at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Vance.

Mercedes-Benz employees rejected the union on a 56% to 44% vote after a months-long campaign that sparked a strong push back from state officials.

The NLRB said in a statement that the regional director will review the objections, and if they raise substantial and material issues of fact that could need a hearing, a hearing will be held. If the director believes that the employers conduct had interfered with the election, then a new election could be held.

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The charges include disciplining employees for discussing unionization at work; not allowing union materials or paraphernalia to be distributed; surveilling employees; discharging supporters of the union; forcing employees to be in captive audience meetings, and making comments that union activities will not work.

The director will see if the complaints have merit and seek remedies as needed with the NLRB Administrative Law Judge if theres no settlement. The judges order can be appealed to the board, then a Circuit Court.

A UAW spokesperson provided a copy of the objections to the Reflector Friday afternoon. The objections include allegations Mercedes-Benz United States International (MBUSI), the company overseeing the plant, targeted union supporters with drug tests.



On January 11, 2024, employees of MBUSI publicly announced that they were exploring forming a union with the UAW at MBUSIs Facilities. Almost immediately thereafter, both prior to and during the election period, the Employer engaged in a relentless anti-union campaign marked with unlawful discipline, unlawful captive audience meetings, and a general goal of coercing and intimidating employees who were attempting to exercise their Section 7 rights, it reads.

The UAW said in a statement Friday that workers want a fair election.

Over 2,000 Mercedes workers voted yes to win their union after an unprecedented, illegal anti-union campaign waged against them by their employer, the union wrote. What that tells us is that in a fair fight, where Mercedes is held accountable to following the law, workers will win their union.

A Mercedes-Benz spokesperson wrote over email that over 90% of the MBUSI employees were not interested in being represented by the UAW in a secret ballot election. The spokesperson wrote that the company will work with employees to create a safe and supportive environment.

Our goal throughout this process was to ensure every eligible team member had the opportunity to participate in a fair election. We sincerely hoped the UAW would respect our team members decision, they wrote. Throughout the election, we worked with the NLRB to adhere to its guidelines and we will continue to do so as we work through this process.

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The post UAW files objections to Mercedes-Benz union vote appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
UC Davis academic employees will walk off the job Tuesday to protest the University of Californias handling of pro-Palestine campus protests across California and alleged unfair labor practices, a United Auto Workers spokeswoman said.

Emily Weintraut, a doctoral student in UC Davis Department of Food Science and Technology and a unit chair in the UC Davis chapter of UAW, said the UC system has allowed an unsafe work environment to spread across campuses by failing to stop violence upon peaceful protesters at UCLA, UC San Diego and UC Irvine and arresting union members partaking the demonstrations.

She also accused the UC of changing terms and conditions of their employment in response to the protest without a bargaining session. Examples include canceling classes, switching to remote instruction and altering employee discipline codes, according to UAWs complaint with the states Public Employment Relations Board.

No arrests have taken place at a pro-Palestinian encampment at UC Davis, which sprung up May 6, but Weintraut emphasized she sees all the campuses as interconnected; the alleged workplace violations could also happen at other campuses, she said. UC Santa Cruz was the first to begin a work stoppage on Monday, and UCLA plans join the efforts on Tuesday.

Its one UC and thats why are doing this, Weintraut added. The campus is entering the final weeks of its last academic quarter before summer break, and the strike on Tuesday morning will feature picket lines throughout the campus.

University of California officials earlier this month said the strike was illegal. UAW 4811 represents about 5,700 UC Davis academic workers including post-doctoral students, teaching assistants, academic researchers and academic student employees.

UAWs decision to strike over nonlabor issues violates the no-strike clause of their contracts with UC and sets a dangerous and far-reaching precedent that social, political and cultural issues  no matter how valid  that are not labor-related can support a labor strike, said Melissa Matella, the UCs associate vice president of systemwide labor relations, in a statement May 16.

The statement included elements of the contract between UC and UAW, including: The UAW, on behalf of its officers, agents and members, agrees that there shall be no strikes, including sympathy strikes, stoppages or interruptions of work, or other concerted activities which interfere directly or indirectly with University operations during the life of this agreement or any written extension thereof.

UC officials argued it takes action against protests when they threaten the safety and security of others, and that it took lawful action to end the impermissible and unlawful behavior.

On Friday, about 100 union members demonstrated near UC Davis pro-Palestinian encampment erected at Memorial Quad to prepare for Tuesdays labor action. Union leaders gave speeches, provided updates on the war in Gaza and taught a know your rights training should protesters run into law enforcement during the strike.

For Joseph Recupero, an academic student employee head steward for the union and second-year anthropology graduate student, the chance to strike involved in part protesting against the universitys alleged repression of free speech. UC Davis features outspoken groups of students expressing different sentiments that could be potentially shut down on campus, he said.

The union wants to ensure that those rights are protected for student workers, Recupero said.

The two sides met for mediation on Friday, but PERB declined to disclose what was said during the meeting without the consent of both sides.

UAW filed a complaint with PERB on May 3 over UCLAs handling of violence against an pro-Palestinian encampment. Hundreds of pro-Israel counterprotesters swarmed the encampment April 30 erected in the heart of campus, lighting fireworks and spraying chemicals.

Police didnt arrive for hours to break up the fights and then arrested the protesters the following morning at UCLA.

Weintraut said the were the UCs own making, and that she has friends who were trapped in the violence that was unleashed on peaceful protesters.

We are not unreasonable, she said of UAWs demands.
A man accused of attacking demonstrators inside a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of California, Los Angeles, while wielding a wooden pole was arrested Thursday, authorities said.

Detectives identified and arrested the 18-year-old suspect after reviewing security camera footage, interviewing witnesses and speaking with victims involved in the April 30 attack that took place in Royce Quad, according to a statement from the UCLA Police Department.

The name of the suspect was not revealed in the statement but a law enforcement source confirmed to the Los Angeles Times that the man is Edan On.

Pro-Palestinian protestors defend themselves against a pro-Israeli supporter at an encampment at UCLA on May 1, 2024.

On is suspected of causing serious injuries to at least one victim when he joined a group of pro-Israeli counterprotesters who attacked the demonstrators.

On, who is not affiliated with the university, was detained by UCLA police officers at a business in Beverly Hills and subsequently booked on suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon.

He was being held on $30,000 bail.

The attack on the encampment, which involved pro-Israeli counterprotesters lobbing fireworks and attempting to dismantle the barricades, occurred just hours after UCLA Chancellor Gene Block labeled the encampment as unauthorized.

Block said in the days following the incident that he was committed to identifying the perpetrators of violence and holding them accountable.

Toyota SUV explodes outside Los Angeles grocery store

The encampment was dismantled two days after the violent encounter during an hourslong operation by Los Angeles police, which resulted in the arrests of more than 200 people.

Demonstrators attempted to construct a new encampment Thursday with wood barricades and umbrellas, blocking access to a portion of campus outside Moore Hall. It was dismantled a few hours later when officials declared it an unlawful assembly, and police moved in.

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Police prepare to enter an encampment occupied by pro-Palestinian demonstrators on the UCLA campus Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Nearly a month after counterprotesters attacked a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of California, Los Angeles, police have made their first arrest, detaining an 18-year-old who is not a student or affiliated with the school in any way, officials said Friday.

UCLA did not identify the suspect, but online county jail records show that 18-year-old Edan On was arrested by UCLA police at 8:46 a.m. Thursday at a business in Beverly Hills and was jailed on $30,000 bail.

Last week, CNN identified On as a high school senior from Beverly Hills who was seen in videos wearing a white mask and white hoodie striking a pro-Palestinian demonstrator with a wooden pole during the April 30 attack on the encampment on campus.

Counterprotesters threw traffic cones, released pepper spray and threw live mice into the encampment, setting off fighting that went on for hours before police stepped in, drawing criticism from Muslim students and political leaders. Police said at least 15 people were injured, though pro-Palestinian supporters put the number closer to 25.

UCLA officials have said the attack involved a group of instigators.

During that violence, one individual was seen on video assaulting encampment occupants with a wooden pole, causing serious injuries to at least one victim, the university said in its statement Friday, adding that the suspect was booked at the UCLA Police Department for felony assault with a deadly weapon.

Ons mother wrote in Hebrew in a since-delated Facebook post that Edan went to bully the Palestinian students in the tents at UCLA and included an image of the person in the white hoodie that was broadcast on local news, CNN reported. The outlet said his mother confirmed to CNN that the man in the video was her son, though she later said he denies being at UCLA.

Neither On nor his mother could be reached by The Associated Press.

On Thursday, UCLA Chancellor Gene Block, who was among leaders of three universities called to testify at a congressional hearing about the wave of campus protests over Israels war with Hamas in Gaza, expressed remorse over the school's handling of the attack on the encampment.

Tragically, it took several hours for law enforcement to quell the violence, Block said. With the benefit of hindsight, we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk.

The night after the attack, hundreds of police officers from various agencies poured onto the campus and dismantled the encampment. On Wednesday, the police chief at UCLA was reassigned pending an examination of our security processes, according to a statement from the school.

Protesters tried to establish a new encampment at UCLA on Thursday, but they left when ordered to disperse. A crowd of demonstrators marched elsewhere on campus, and a small group later staged a sit-in inside a building before officers cleared them out.

The arrest followed an investigation that included interviews with victims and witnesses as well as reviews of security camera images and publicly available videos from the public and news media.

The statement said university police are investigating all reported acts of violence associated with protest or counterprotest activities since April 25.
A University of Florida research employee and students have been implicated in an illegal, multimillion-dollar scheme investigated by the Justice Department to fraudulently buy thousands of biochemical samples of dangerous drugs and toxins that were delivered to a campus laboratory then illicitly shipped to China over seven years, according to federal court records.

Among the students tied to the scheme was the president of UFs Chinese Students and Scholars Association. The group openly protested a Florida law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis last year that limits universities from recruiting students and faculty from China  and bans employing such students from working in academic labs without special permission.

That student, Nongnong Leticia Zheng, confirmed Friday in an interview that a federal prosecutor notified her last year in writing she was the target of a grand jury investigation, and the Justice Department was preparing to seek criminal charges against her. She said she has been assigned a federal public defender, Ryan Maguire of Tampa. She said government agents have threatened to imprison or deport her.

It wasnt otherwise clear whether the UF research employee or other students  identified in federal court records as co-conspirators  have been charged or arrested yet. The UF employee worked in the stockroom of one of the universitys research labs, prosecutors said.

Fentanyl, cocaine among drugs shipped to China

The materials smuggled to China included what the government described as purified, non-contagious proteins of the cholera toxin and pertussis toxin, which causes whooping cough. Cholera is a generally non-fatal intestinal infection that can cause severe dehydration. Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can lead to violent coughing, vomiting and even respiratory distress  but is preventable with a vaccine.

Other materials smuggled to China included small amounts of highly purified drugs  known as analytical samples  of fentanyl, morphine, MDMA, cocaine, ketamine, codeine, methamphetamine, amphetamine, acetylmorphine and methadone, court records showed. Such small samples would generally be used for calibrating scientific or medical devices.

The substances cant legally be exported to China.

Prosecutors described one student involved as a Chinese citizen majoring in marketing in the business college last year, who agreed to change her UF email signature to falsely represent that she was a biomedical engineering student to purchase items without raising suspicions, court records showed. One line across hundreds of pages of court documents in the case cited an excerpt of an email that her first name was Leticia.

Zheng, a senior marketing major in the business school, is president of the Chinese students and scholars group, which describes itself as officially approved by the Chinese embassy. Zheng was enrolled as recently as the spring semester that just ended, university records showed. Fresh Take Florida, a news service of the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications, identified Leticia as Zheng using biographical clues in university records shared by none of the other 58,441 UF students enrolled last semester.

Zheng, who said she lived most of her life in China, said in a tearful interview Friday at her apartment complex she was deceived and victimized by the schemes organizers, who she said solicited help finding paid interns from the Chinese -student organization. Foreign students on educational visas are limited in how or whether they can work for pay.

This case seems to be really big, she said. What I was doing was, like, just a little work, and I didnt get paid that much.

Zheng said in hindsight, she noticed red flags such as a lack of paperwork or consistent payments for the administrative work she did. She said she wasnt familiar with the substances she was directed to order. The man described as the schemes ringleader  who has pleaded guilty in the case  reassured her, and she didnt realize she was in trouble until the Justice Department contacted her, she said.

Zheng said she hopes to be allowed to finish her degree and said she doesnt understand how the university didnt have policies in place to protect her.

I do need help, honestly, she said, adding: I would like to see if theres anything that can help me not get charged and get out of this whole mess.

Earlier this year, Zhengs organization issued a statement calling Floridas new law restricting Chinese students in university labs as nationality-based discrimination and said it violates principles of academic freedom and openness and impedes international exchanges.

UF email addresses used to buy drugs

The schemes organizers also paid UF students other than Zheng to allow use of their UF email addresses to order the substances, prosecutors said. Organizers paid the UF research employee with Home Depot gift cards worth hundreds of dollars and paid for trips and loans, court records showed. Prosecutors said organizers also used the email addresses of two UF researchers who had already left the university by 2015. They were not described as co-conspirators.

The university said in a statement that it has been cooperating with the Justice Department for weeks but declined to answer directly whether anyone has been fired or kicked out of UF.

We will have more details to share regarding UFs administrative actions as the DOJs criminal case unfolds, spokesman Steve Orlando said. Employees who break the law will be separated from employment, and students who break the law will face suspension.

The scheme ran from July 2016 to May 2023, the government said. Former Republican Sen. Ben Sasse  a leading China hawk on Capitol Hill who once described the threat from Beijing as the defining national-security challenge of our age  took over as the universitys president in February 2022.

The plot is sure to supercharge the raging policy debate over countering Chinas ascension as a global power and curtailing its influence. Florida has already banned TikTok from universities and colleges, and prohibited citizens of China and some other countries from owning homes or purchasing property in large swaths of the state.

Students walk near the 157-foot tall Century Tower at the University of Florida in Gainesville. A University of Florida researcher and an unspecified number of students have been implicated in an illegal scheme investigated by the Justice Department to fraudulently buy biochemical products that were delivered to a UF laboratory over seven years before they were illegally shipped to China, according to federal court records. (Gabriel Velasquez-Neira/Fresh Take Florida)

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., the ranking Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee and said to be under consideration by former President Donald Trump to be his running mate, has warned Florida lawmakers about what he called a foreign interference effort by China targeting universities.

The Chinese Students and Scholars Associations faculty adviser, Eric Jing Du, a professor in the UF Department of Civil and Coastal Engineering, said Friday in an interview that he was unaware of the criminal investigation and Zheng never told him she was ordering biomedical supplies.

Du  who condemned the plot described in court records  said the two have worked together in the two years he has been the groups adviser. He separately hired her briefly in 2022 to produce some images for an academic proposal, he said.

Its like some UF students are trying to make a profit on this without knowing the potential consequences, he said. Du said he worried investigations like this could lead to further crackdowns against international students. The new Florida law targets students from so-called countries of concern: China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela and Syria.

This is a very complicated time, Du said. I do know the contributions and hard work of the students from the countries of concern, the vast majority of them are doing the right thing and contributing to UF and Florida. I just hope the decision makers, the leadership, the Legislature wont amplify the impact of this.

Ringleader pleads guilty

The man who prosecutors identified as the schemes ringleader, Pen Ben Yu, 51, of Gibsonton, Florida, near Tampa, has already pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine when he is sentenced on Aug. 2.

Yu provided Zheng, the UF student, with a credit card to place dozens of fraudulent orders last year, the Justice Department said. At Yus direction, she wrote to the biomedical company that she was working in collaboration with other researchers in biotechnology and requested a good price since we will be purchasing these items routinely, court records showed.

After the biomedical orders arrived at UF, the research employee would bring them or otherwise provide them to Yu, who shipped them to China, prosecutors said. The UF researcher in charge of the lab  which included the stockroom where the supplies were delivered  was not described as a co-conspirator in legal filings.

Ben, I believe I have 35 or 36 boxes for you today, the UF research employee wrote in 2016.

Yu paid for the employees gasoline, $10 for every hour he drove to meet him. I will pump the gas for you at the place where we meet, he told the research employee, prosecutors said. Yu disguised the shipments to China as legal diluting agents, court records show.

Faking an affiliation with an academic research lab to obtain controlled biochemical materials, and then sending those materials to China, is not only wrong but illegal, said Matthew S. Axelrod, the assistant secretary for export enforcement in the Commerce Departments Bureau of Industry and Security. He said the criminal investigation should put other universities on alert.

Axelrod called it yet another fact pattern for universities to beware of  the misuse of academic institutions by outsiders who seek to obscure the actual customer of controlled items.

It wasnt clear who Yu was working for in China. In intercepted messages, the government said he referred to his superior only as his boss. Yu and his defense lawyer, Robert Earl Zlatkin of Orlando, did not immediately return a phone message from Fresh Take Florida.

A sales executive for Massachusetts-based Sigma-Aldrich Inc., which sold the samples, also has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Gregory Munoz, 45, of Minneola, Florida, west of Orlando, is set to be sentenced July 23. Munoz sold products from the company to several universities in Florida, including UF, court records said.

Yu emailed Munoz in 2020 and said his employer needed 10 boxes of cholera toxin, which he acknowledged was a substance heavily regulated by the U.S. government.

This is the cholera toxin, Munoz replied. Remember, we had issues in the past and they require a lot of documentation signed by the university.

Munoz discovered in December 2022 that his employer was investigating him and warned Yu, who continued to place hundreds of new orders to ship to China in 2023, court records said. Wow, I am really screwed now, Munoz wrote. Anti-bribery, anti-kickback.

Last year, in February, Yu emailed Munoz and asked, Do you still need Leticia to send you this order? Munoz and his lawyer, Fritz J. Scheller of Orlando, also did not immediately return a phone message.

A third person, Jonathan Rok Thyng, 47, who lived at the same address as Yu in Gibsonton, agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit a federal crime and faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Prosecutors said Thyng ordered some of the biomedical substances and shipped some of the packages to China. He was expected to formally enter his plea June 18.

Thyng and his lawyer, Bjorn Erik Brunvand of Clearwater, also did not immediately return a phone message.

Prosecutors said U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized a shipment in April 2023 that Thyng sent from Tampa to China containing biomedical items ordered by the UF marketing student and others.

The Justice Department said orders placed through UF qualified for significant discounts  prosecutors said the schemes organizers paid $4.9 million for $13.7 million worth of biomedical supplies  and included free items and free overnight shipping.

Prosecutors said in court records they would recommend leniency for Yu, Munoz and Thyng because they promised to cooperate with investigators and accepted responsibility for their crimes. Prosecutors said all are American citizens. The Justice Department asked the judge to order Yu and Munoz each to forfeit $100,000, which it said was how much Yu and Munoz had earned over the years.

Company reports scheme to feds

The scheme unraveled when the company  known as MilliporeSigma, a subsidiary of Merck KGaA of Darmstadt, Germany  discovered the ruse involving UF and reported its involvement to the U.S. government. Under new Justice Department rules, such companies that self-report export violations and cooperate can escape prosecution.

The company said in a statement Friday that it fired Munoz and cooperated with investigators to avoid prosecution. This was the first time those rules were applied, the government said.

Because of MilliporeSigmas timely disclosure and exceptional cooperation, a rogue company insider and his accomplice pled guilty to fraudulently diverting millions of dollars worth of biochemicals to China, and the company will not be prosecuted, said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in Washington.

As national security and corporate crime increasingly intersect, companies that step up and own up under the departments voluntary self-disclosure programs can help themselves and our nation, she said.

This story was produced by Fresh Take Florida, a news service of the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications. The reporter can be reached at mcupelli@ufl.edu. You can donate to support our students here.
Massah, who is 13 months old, was born in the Midlands in April last year

A British-born baby is being threatened with removal from Britain amid a crackdown on student visas.

Massah, who is 13 months old, was born in the Midlands in April last year. Both her parents have been living legally in Britain since 2021 when her father came to study for a PhD from Jordan and her mother came as his dependant.

Massah has been threatened with removal after the family took a holiday abroad in January. Because her status was not confirmed before the family left the country for the first time together, she technically re-entered the UK as a tourist. Officials have, however, refused to recognise the discrepancy.

Her parents have tried applying for a child-dependant visa for their daughter, but this month they received a letter from the Home Office telling them their daughter will be required to immediately leave the UK and will have to re-apply for a visa from abroad.

The letter from the Government goes on to state: In the particular circumstances of your case, it has been concluded that the need to maintain the integrity of the immigration laws outweighs the possible effect on you/your children.

Massah pictured with her father and mother

Massahs father, Mohammad, told Sky News that he and his wife had faced sleepless nights as a result of the Home Offices stance. Despite their MP and lawyers trying to argue their case, so far they have made no further progress.

They said they did not want to have to take their baby to Jordan in order to re-apply due to the current instability in the Middle East. They are also concerned that, even if they did, the application could still be refused.

Mohammad said: I cant imagine how I can tell her the story in the future that the country you [were] born asked you to leave while you [were] a year old. Im trying to fix everything. I dont need to consider a one-year-old infant as an overstayer here.

A Home Office spokesman said: All visa applications are carefully considered on their individual merits in accordance with the immigration rules. We are working closely with the parents of this child to ensure they receive the support and direction they require regarding the application.

The Government has toughened its immigration policy and increased restrictions on foreign student visas, including a ban on bringing dependants with them unless they are doing PhD degrees.

On Thursday, James Cleverly, the Home Secretary, announced new measures to crack down on visa abuses by foreign students and warned universities that letting in applicants without proper visa checks could mean a loss of licence to recruit overseas students.

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(Bloomberg) -- The calling of a snap national election means that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks signature energy legislation that mandates annual North Sea oil-and-gas licensing rounds may never be adopted.

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The Offshore Petroleum Licensing Bill is currently waiting its final reading in the House of Lords, before any amendments are considered and the bill becomes law. However, Sunaks call for a general election on July 4 will mean the dissolution of parliament later this month, sealing the fate of the oil-and-gas licensing bill.

One of the arguments put forward by the Conservative Party for the bill was that it would increase oil and gas supply, bolstering energy security and potentially lowering fossil fuel prices. However, North Sea resources are in decline and any new fields would take years to bring online.

Sunak faced criticism from climate activists over his decision to bring the bill to Parliament. The move was made despite the opposition of the governments own adviser Climate Change Committee and some members of the his own Conservative party. Chris Skidmore, a former energy minister, resigned from parliament over Sunaks decision.

LISTEN: Chris Skidmore talks about his resignation

The snap election means Sunak will also have to drop other signature policies, including the anti-smoking plan and scrapping no-fault evictions. The government declined to comment, but the parliamentary order paper detailing Fridays business did not mention the oil-and-gas licensing bill, indicating that it will not be dealt with before parliament finishes ahead of the election campaign.

--With assistance from Will Mathis.

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Ukraines air defenses are succumbing to myriad air threats that cannot be held off, despite the passage of a recent aid bill that provided an additional $61 billion in military aid. Ukraines dire military situation cannot be remedied by a blank check, or as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently requested, more Patriot batteries.

The problem is not a resourcing issue, at least not in the short term. The air threats Ukraine faces pose a quantitative overmatch that simply make countering this unachievable.

Ukraines air defenses are already facing an untenable situation, one which additional Patriot batteries simply cannot remedy. Ukraine currently possesses just three Patriot batteries, one of which recently lost two launchers to a Russian air attack while convoying.

By President Zelenskyys own reckoning, Ukraines patchwork of Soviet, European and American air defense systems is only about 25% of what Ukraine would need to adequately defend itself. Zelenskyy went on to state that providing full coverage would entail a full 25 Patriot systems  nearly eight times Ukraines current arsenal and more than twice what Raytheon can produce in a full year.

How Patriot proved itself in Ukraine and secured a fresh future

Ukraines vulnerability is going to worsen with time, and new Patriot systems are likely to become expensive liabilities if introduced. Russia is exploiting Ukraines lack of air defense to both gather timely intelligence and to take out strategic targets behind the front line, such as air defenses and power plants. This in turn makes each Patriot system vulnerable, as the system is designed to operate within a larger ecosystem of air defenses operating at higher and lower altitudes. On its lonesome, it would be vulnerable to Russias increasingly sophisticated and low-altitude capable drones.

Ukraine would also face operational limitations both in its theater coverage and in magazine depth. The Patriot can either support Ukraines front-line defense or protect its rear infrastructure, but not both. And even overlooking these trade-offs, the fight itself is unsustainable. As Zelenskyy bluntly admitted last month in response to a successful Russian strike on a power plant, We ran out of all missiles.

Ukraine recently received additional American Patriot interceptors to replenish its inventory. But this will only delay, not stop, the painful battlefield realities. The U.S. industrial base simply cannot churn out these expensive interceptors in large quantities; by contrast, Russia can continuously procure Shahed drones, churn out Iskander or Kinzhal missiles, and refit its planes with abundant Soviet-era glide bombs.

While Patriot systems are inherently defensive and cannot be employed in a kinetically offensive manner, this only describes their tactical effect. These systems can still be employed in such a way that they create an escalatory effect at the strategic level, namely striking Russian warplanes within Russian airspace.

Up to this point, Washington has been conditioning the use of American weapon systems on their use within Ukraine itself. But given that previous restrictions on cluster munitions, Abrams tanks, F-16 fighter jets and more have been lifted when expedient, there is reason to suspect these Patriots will end up employed in precisely this manner. While it does seem fair to allow Ukraine every advantage, the Russians have signaled that NATO weapons attacking Russia will invite direct retaliation.

Ukrainian civilians are likely to be unaffected by the presence of additional Patriot batteries. Ukrainian civilians have primarily been targeted by means of the power plants and infrastructure they rely on. The limiting factor to protecting these are not the number of Patriot platforms but the interceptors on hand, as seen last month, and this is not fixable in the short term.

Furthermore, the harsh reality is that Ukrainian Patriot operators will likely have an asset list that prioritizes Patriot protection for strategic targets, but the civilian population centers likely wont meet this threshold. This means the best measures for civilian protection are going to be a mix of lower-altitude defense platforms, electronic warfare systems, and passive measures like air raid shelters and sirens, all of which Ukraine has already employed to positive effect.

European allies are not going to plug the gap, either. Germany is sending additional TRML-4D radar systems to detect low-altitude threats as well as a Skynex system to intercept drones. This is on top of the IRIS-T, Patriot and Stinger systems Germany had provided previously. But this aid, though helpful, is not at the scale needed to actually alleviate the overmatch Ukraine faces in the air.

The United States simply does not have the physical capabilities to fix the magazine depth issue in the near term. This is being remedied with nearly $30 billion being spent on air defense across the joint force in fiscal 2024, with a similar amount in the budget proposal for fiscal 2025.

But turning on the assembly lines to increase interceptor production is not a function of flipping a switch once funding is secured; the lackluster air defense-industrial base is a result of putting this on the backburner during the war on terrorism. To fill a gap decades in the making will take years.

What is to be done? Washington needs to recognize the gaps in its approach to intervening thus far.

Just as Ukraine requested Abrams tanks and then recognized that they were not survivable on this battlefield, Patriot systems are not a panacea for solving the extreme vulnerability Ukraine faces. Washington cannot change the outcome of this conflict with military aid, nor can it enter the conflict directly without risking nuclear war  an unacceptable prospect.

Washington should instead leverage its diplomatic power to push for a ceasefire or at least initiate the groundwork for bringing Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table. The alternative to this is wishful thinking.

In addition to the dire air defense situation, Ukraine faces between a 1-to-5 and 1-to-10 artillery disadvantage; is facing manpower shortages so severe that it is retaining amputees; and is facing localized Russian superiority near Kharkiv that is thinning out the rest of its front line.

Ukraine today is likely in the best position it will ever be in for negotiations; every day erodes its relative strength and bargaining power. If Washington wants whats best for Ukraine, it shouldnt encourage its destruction.

Geoff LaMear is a fellow at the Defense Priorities think tank.
PHNOM PENH, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Shohrat Zakir, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC), led a delegation to visit Cambodia at the invitation of Cambodia's National Assembly.

During the visit from Tuesday to Friday, he held talks with Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister Hun Manet, National Assembly President Khuon Sudary, and National Assembly First Vice President Cheam Yeap, among others.

Shohrat Zakir said China's NPC is willing to work with Cambodia to strengthen exchanges and cooperation, and promote the building of the China-Cambodia community with a shared future.

Shohrat Zakir also introduced Chinese-style modernization, the second session of the 14th NPC and other situations to Cambodian leaders.

Cambodian officials appreciated the friendly relations between Cambodia and China, admired the achievements of Chinese-style modernization, and reiterated Cambodia's adherence to the one-China principle.

The Southeast Asian country is also willing to strengthen high-level interactions and legislative exchanges with China, and deepen cooperation under the Diamond Hexagon cooperation framework. 
Ukrainian authorities ordered the evacuation of 123 children from 36 settlements in the country's northeastern Kharkiv Oblast, the Reintegration Ministry announced on May 24.

Over 11,000 people have evacuated from Kharkiv Oblast since Russian forces launched a new offensive on May 10.

Local authorities plan to evacuate orphans and children deprived of parental care with their families or other legal guardians to Kharkiv and then to Volyn Oblast for free, according to the ministry's statement.

The evacuation will occur within 60 days in the Izium, Chuhuiv, Kupiansk, and Bohodukhiv districts of the Kharkiv region.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 16 that Moscow's forces had advanced as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) into the region but had been halted by the first line of defense.

Russia's offensive in mid-May could be the first of several waves, and Russian forces may target the regional capital, Kharkiv, according to the president.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said earlier that despite the intense situation in the region, there are currently no plans to evacuate Kharkiv.

Read also: 48 hours in Kharkiv, Ukraines most-bombed major city

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Ukraine brings back six more children from temporarily occupied territory of Kherson Oblast

Ukraine has brought back three families with five girls and one boy to the government-controlled territory of Kherson Oblast.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "Three families with five girls and one boy, aged 1 to 9 years old, have been brought from the temporarily occupied territory of Kherson Oblast.

Their parents say that living under occupation has become too unbearable. Lacking Russian citizenship, they had no right to see doctors or get a job."

Details: Prokudin further said that the Russians were constantly searching the families' homes, terrifying the children.

At present, all the families are safe, and doctors and psychologists are working with them.

In addition, Prokudin expressed his gratitude to Dmytro Lubinets, Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, and his team for their work. The official added that a total of 94 children have been brought back to Ukrainian government-controlled territory from the Russian-occupied part of Kherson Oblast since the beginning of 2024.

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Ukraine to fire generals and send them to front line

Volodymyr Zelensky addresses marines in Kyiv. The Ukrainian president is facing a manpower problem - Planetpix/Alam

Ukraine plans to sack some of its army generals and send them to the front line in an effort to boost morale among soldiers.

Kyiv has been struggling against waves of Russian attacks as it loses ground in the eastern Donetsk region.

Soldiers have complained they are outmanned and outgunned and that the militarys upper ranks are bloated.

The army has not said how many generals would be reassigned but it said it would cut around two thirds of top staff.

A Ukrainian soldier carrying a mortar shell in Chasiv Yar. The army is under pressure from increased Russian attacks - Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu via Getty

With the released personnel, it is planned to replenish units at the operational and tactical levels, as well as military combat units, said Brig Gen Yevhen Ostryansky, head of Ukrainian military defence planning.

Since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has looked to modernise its military in line with Nato countries.

As well as reducing the number of generals, that means empowering non-commissioned officers and junior officers to make battlefield decisions.

Thousands of Ukrainian soldiers were trained by Nato forces in Europe last year and Nato military planners integrated ahead of the countrys much-hyped counter-offensive.

Ukrainian army medics treat wounded soldiers at a stabilization point - Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu via Getty

However, with the counter-offensive proving a disappointment and Russia steadily making gains on the ground, Ukraine is under pressure to bolster frontline forces and give tired units a rest.

The recruitment drive it was banking on has not panned out as hoped.

In his briefing, Gen Ostryansky said that strengthened recruitment rules and the redeployment of generals from rear command centres to frontline combat units would allow more exhausted soldiers to rest.

This will make it possible to rotate units that perform combat tasks in the combat zone for a long time, he said.

Russia has been advancing along the front line in Ukraine since October, and earlier this month it opened a new front north of Kharkiv.

Since he took over as commander in chief of Ukraines military in February, Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi has been credited with injecting more energy and purpose into Kyivs forces.

He regularly tours front-line units and is a favourite among Ukrainian soldiers.

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A Ukrainian serviceman guards an area amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near the town of Vovchansk in Kharkiv region - Inna Varenytsia/REUTERS

Ukrainian forces have stopped Russia from advancing further into Kharkiv and are now counter-attacking, the countrys army has said.

It added, however, that Moscow is now intensifying its assault on other parts of the front.

Kyiv has been battling a fresh Russian land assault in the northeastern Kharkiv region since May 10, when thousands of Moscows troops stormed the border, making their biggest territorial advances in 18 months.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, visited the regions capital on Friday to discuss the battle for Vovchansk, a town that sits fewer than three miles from the Russian border.

Today I am in Kharkiv.



I held a meeting on the regional situation and heating season preparations. I also received updates on defense operations, particularly in the Vovchansk area, as well as the recovery of damaged energy infrastructure.



We paid special attention to the pic.twitter.com/LwrlHwSLIH  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) May 24, 2024

The army said on Friday: The Ukrainian defence forces have stopped Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector.

The situation is under control, counter-offensive actions are under way.

Oleksandr Syrsky, Ukraines commander-in-chief, said on social media that, despite Russias initial success, the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units.

In an attempt to seize the town, Russia is currently moving reserves from different sectors to support active assault operations, but to no avail, Syrsky added.

He warned, however, that the situation was turbulent on the eastern front, where Moscow says its forces have made a string of gains in the past two weeks.

Fighting near the eastern towns of Chasiv Yar, Pokrovsk and Kurakhove has been particularly intense, he said.

Kremlin sources claim Putin is ready to discuss a ceasefire - MIKHAIL METZEL/SPUTNIK/KREMLIN POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock

Russia said on Thursday it had made inroads near the city of Bakhmut in Ukraines eastern region of Donetsk.

Just three days earlier it claimed to have seized the village of Bilohorivka, a key target for Moscow, which is seeking to wrest control of the entire Lugansk region from Kyiv.

Moscow said it launched the offensive in Ukraines northeast to create a buffer zone along the border to prevent future Ukrainian attacks on its territory.

As Ukraine rushed troops to the northeast, Kyiv again accused Moscow of deliberately targeting civilians in strikes.

Ukrainian Railways, the state-owned train operator, reported a flurry of attacks on Kharkivs railway system overnight that damaged tracks, train carriages and buildings.

The enemy continues to make deliberate attempts to stop the railway in the Kharkiv region, it said on Telegram.

The company shared photos showing smoke rising from a wrecked carriage, twisted metal and debris beside tracks and a depot with some blown-out windows.

It said long-distance and suburban trains were running as scheduled despite repeated Russian strikes on the network, which is vital for both civilians and the military.

Strikes on Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, killed at least seven people on Thursday, local authorities said.

More than 11,000 people in the wider region have been evacuated since Russia began its new offensive two weeks ago, according to Oleg Synegubov, a local governor.

Separately, Ukraine fired missiles overnight at the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula. Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-installed head of the region, said the strikes killed two chance passers-by.

03:24 PM BST

Thanks for following todays live blog

Thank you for following todays live coverage of the war in Ukraine.

The days key developments were:

Ukrainian claims to have stopped a Russian ground offensive from advancing further into northeastern Kharkiv and has begun counterattacks

Russian forces have become bogged down in attempts to seize the border-town Vovchansk

A Russian MP claimed Moscows forces now control more than half of the town

Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, Russian sources have claimed

03:16 PM BST

Putin and Lukashenko to forge united front

Russia and Belarus will tighten their cooperation in industry and technology in the face of Western sanctions against both their economies, presidents Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko said on Friday.

We reported earlier that Putin arrived for a two-day visit in Belarus on Wednesday, where he will discuss nuclear weapons with his ally (see post at 12:06 pm).

Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko shake hands during a welcome ceremony in Minsk, Belarus on Friday - Dmitriy Azarov

03:07 PM BST

Russia bogged down two weeks into new invasion

Russian forces have become bogged down in attempts to seize the border-town Vovchansk, but have sharpened their offensive elsewhere along the eastern front, Ukraines top general said on Friday.

Kyiv has been battling a fresh Russian land assault on its northeastern Kharkiv region since May 10, when thousands of Moscows troops stormed the border, making their biggest territorial advances in 18 months.

Despite initial success , the enemy has got completely bogged down in street battles for Vovchansk and suffered very high losses in assault units, said Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky on social media.

In an attempt to seize the town, Russia is currently moving reserves from different sectors to support active assault operations, but to no avail, Mr Syrsky added.

Although he warned that the situation on the eastern front was unstable, where Russia claims its forces have made a series of gains in the past two weeks.

Fighting near the eastern towns of Chasiv Yar, Pokrovsk and Kurakhove has been particularly intense, he added.

The fresh offensive on the region has seen more than 11,000 people evacuate.

03:00 PM BST

G7 chief absolutely open to loan for Ukraine

World Bank President Ajay Banga said on Friday that he is absolutely open to the idea of managing a fund for Ukraine that would pay out a G7 loan to the war-ravaged country.

The sum would be based on the earnings from frozen Russian assets, at least for non-military purposes, Mr Banga said.

All I know is that if they do decide to give it to us, would I be ready? Yeah, Mr Banga said at a meeting of G7 finance ministers called to tackle the concept of such a loan.

He added: I could manage a fund of that type. I would need safeguards, I would need to make sure our people understand how to use it.

02:43 PM BST

Zelensky is in Kharkiv

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, held a meeting on the regional situation in Kharkiv on Friday.

We paid special attention to the housing needs of our people who had been displaced from Kharkiv region territories targeted by enemy shelling, he wrote on X.

Today I am in Kharkiv.



I held a meeting on the regional situation and heating season preparations. I also received updates on defense operations, particularly in the Vovchansk area, as well as the recovery of damaged energy infrastructure.



We paid special attention to the pic.twitter.com/LwrlHwSLIH  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) May 24, 2024

02:28 PM BST

Ukraine starts freeing some prisoners to join its military

Ukraine has freed at least 50 convicts under a new law that allows them to serve in exchange for the possibility of parole, as part of a wider effort to replenish Ukraines depleted forces.

It is unclear how many prisoners in total have been released since the law was enacted a week ago.

Denys Maliuska, Ukraines justice minister, said that 10,000 to 20,000 prisoners could be recruited.

We reported earlier that the number of convicts in Russian prisons dropped by 58,000 last year, as prisoners are promised a pardon if they survive six months fighting on the front lines (see post at 9:55 am).

02:05 PM BST

Two more Russian officials arrested in deepening military purge

Russia has detained two more senior military figures - the deputy head of the armys General Staff and a senior procurement official at the defence ministry - as a bribery scandal intensifies, investigators said on Thursday.

The arrests of Lieutenant-General Vadim Shamarin and ministry official Vladimir Verteletsky bumped the number of arrested military officials to five in a single month.

The crackdown signals a major effort to crack down on corruption surrounding the awarding of lucrative military contracts at a time when Russian forces are fighting in Ukraine.

Lt. Gen. Vadim Shamarin, deputy chief of the military general staff - AP

01:53 PM BST

Zelensky to visit Spain next week, sources say

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will travel to Spain on Sunday and will meet with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and King Felipe on Monday, said sources familiar with his movements.



It comes after Zelensky was forced to suspend all international visits last week amid tense fighting in the Kharkiv region.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky - Shutterstock

01:35 PM BST

Ukraine has stopped Russian advance in Kharkiv, says army

Ukrainian forces have stopped Russia from advancing further into the northeastern Kharkiv region and are now counter-attacking, but Moscow is intensifying its assault on other parts of the front, Ukraines army said Friday.

Kyiv has been battling a fresh Russian land assault on its northeastern Kharkiv region since May 10, when thousands of Moscows troops stormed the border, making their biggest territorial advances in 18 months.

01:16 PM BST

Putin wants Ukraine ceasefire on current frontlines

Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine with a negotiated ceasefire that recognises the current battlefield lines, Russian sources have said.

The Russian leader had expressed frustration to a small group of advisers about Western attempts to stymie negotiations, three of the sources, who are familiar with discussions in Putins inner circle, told Reuters.

They added that he was also vexed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiys decision to rule out further truce talks.

Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war, said one of the sources, a senior Russian figure who has worked with the Kremlin chief.

Putins spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Russian President had repeatedly made clear Russia was open to ceasefire discussions, saying the country did not want eternal war.

Russian strikes on the eastern Ukraine city of Kharkiv - AFP

12:53 PM BST

Ukraine in talks with EU to boost electricity imports, minister says

Ukraine is seeking to maximise possible imports of electricity from European Union countries to compensate for the generation capacity destroyed by the Russian attacks, Ukrainian energy minister said on Friday.

Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraines energy sector have caused significant damage and blackouts in many regions.

The attacks have cost more than $1 billion (786 million) of damage to the sector and drained of 8,000 MWh of generating capacity from the energy system, the government said.

Currently, Ukraine can import from the EU states no more than 1,700 Mwh of electricity simultaneously.

Were negotiating. Our task is to maximise this figure, Energy Minister German Galushchenko told parliament.

Herman Halushchenko, the Ukrainian energy minister, speaks to Annalena Baerbock, German's foreign minister, during an official visit to a thermal power plant which was destroyed by a Russian rocket attack - AP

12:26 PM BST

More than 20 arrested over Moscow concert attack

We reported earlier that Alexander Bortnikov, the head of Russias Federal Security Service, accused Ukraine of being directly involved in the attack on a concert hall near Moscow (see post at 7:47am).

Now, we are hearing that on Friday Russia arrested more than 20 people in connection with the attack.

Mr Bortnikov repeated Russias assertion, for which it has not provided evidence, that Ukraine was behind the attack that killed more than 140 people in March.

Ukraine has dismissed the allegation as absurd.

12:06 PM BST

Putin arrives in Belarus to stage nuclear drills

Vladimir Putin arrived for a two-day visit in Belarus on Wednesday, where he will discuss nuclear weapons with his ally Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarus started taking delivery of such Russian warheads - shorter-range less powerful nuclear weapons that could potentially be used on the battlefield - in June last year.

It marked the first movement of such warheads since the fall of the Soviet Union, some of which are three times more powerful than the atomic bombs the US dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, and Alexander Lukashenko, the Belarusian president, meet - MIKHAIL METZEL/AFP

11:56 AM BST

Analysis: Putins peace offer designed to fracture European support

Vladimir Putins call for a ceasefire in Ukraine, broadcast through Kremlin briefings to Reuters, should be treated with caution.

Its real aim may be to fragment European support for Ukraine ahead of a peace conference next month in Switzerland.

Ukraines defence against Russia has lasted for more than two years and interest and patience is wearing thin in some European countries.

Putin is a master at spotting weakness and exploiting it. If he can sow more doubt into the minds of European leaders and populations, Putin knows that he will weaken Ukraine.

The Russian leader has regularly tried to pose as a peacenik since he launched his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, accusing Volodymyr Zelensky and Nato of forcing war on him.

But he also knows that the conditions he lays out for peace negotiations are unacceptable to the US, Ukraines main backer, and will be ignored.

Underpinning Putins offers of peace talks are tactics designed to fragment European support for Kyiv.

11:43 AM BST

Zelensky visits Kharkiv amid Russian assault

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has visited the northeast region of Kharkiv amid Russias renewed offensive in the region.

The entire city and region of Kharkiv deserve our support, gratitude, and respect, as does every Ukrainian community and person who refuses to give in to the enemy, he wrote on X.

Today I am in Kharkiv.



I held a meeting on the regional situation and heating season preparations. I also received updates on defense operations, particularly in the Vovchansk area, as well as the recovery of damaged energy infrastructure.



We paid special attention to the pic.twitter.com/LwrlHwSLIH  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) May 24, 2024

11:32 AM BST

Kremlin: Ukraine already uses US-supplied weapon to attack beyond territory

Sergey Viktorovich, the Russian foreign minister, has accused Ukraine of already using weapons supplied by the US to attack targets beyond its territory, in what he called the conflict zone and against civilian infrastructure.

Russia has repeatedly said that Western arms shipment will only prolong the conflict and will not change the situation at the battlefield.

The Biden administration insists that US-supplied weapons should not be used beyond Ukrainian territories.

11:08 AM BST

Romanian police arrest suspect accused of spying for Russia

Romanian prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation against a Romanian citizen accused of treason and spying for Russia for more than two years, they said on Friday.

The countrys anti-organised crime prosecuting unit, DIICOT, said in a statement the suspect collected military information and took photographs of military equipment and staff movements in the border area with Ukraine which he then sent to diplomats from the Russian embassy in Bucharest.

The alleged surveillance occurred near Tulcea, the southeastern Romanian county  near the countrys border with Ukraine - beginning in 2022.

A Romanian court has approved the suspects arrest for 30 days pending the criminal investigation

10:48 AM BST

US questions UK claims that China is providing lethal aid to Russia

The US has interrogated claims by Britains defence secretary that China was providing Russia with lethal aid for its war in Ukraine.

Grant Shapps on Wednesday said he had evidence of China providing or preparing to provide Russia with lethal aid for the Kremlin to use in its war against Ukraine.

But US national security adviser Jake Sullivan refuted the allegation, saying Washington had not observed that China had directly provided weapons to Russia.

We have not seen that to date. I look forward to speaking with the UK to make sure that we have a common operating picture, Sullivan said.

Beijing on Thursday condemned what it called baseless and irresponsible statements made by British politicians.

Defence Secretary Grant Schapps - Eddie Mulholland

10:30 AM BST

Atacms strike Soviet space radar in Crimea

Ukraine used Atacms missiles to destroy a space radar in a strike on Crime, sources on the occupied peninsula said.

The Crimean Wind channel said the large Soviet military antenna was struck near the city of Alushta on the eastern coast.

At least six US-supplied Atacms hit the facility, where high-ranking military personnel were located at the moment, the Telegram channel wrote.

Russias defence ministry claimed that the missile attack was repelled with its air defence forces shooting down at least three Atacms.

Explosions were heard in almost all regions of Crimea. Russian air defences were active in many, but they were not very effective, Crimean Wind said.

Atesh, a pro-Ukrainian partisan group, claimed that there were many casualties, but said it was too early to confirm the damage to the radar centre.

10:08 AM BST

Pictured: In Russia at war, kids swap classroom for shooting range

Pupils fire automatic rifles at a range in Vladikavkaz, Russia - REUTERS

Pupils practise first aid at a range in Vladikavkaz, Russia - REUTERS

09:55 AM BST

Russian prison population fell by 50,000 last year, says report

The number of people locked up in Russian prisons dropped by 58,000 last year, Russian independent media reported on Friday.

The report said that some 105,000 prisoners were released between 2022-2023, citing data published in the official journal of Russias prison service.

Russia started to recruit convicts to fight in Ukraine in 2022, when Yevgeny Prigozhin, the late head of the Wagner mercenary group, began to offer prisoners a pardon if they survived six months at the front.

Mr Prigozhin, who was killed in a plane crash last year, said he had recruited 50,000 prisoners for Wagner.

09:42 AM BST

First Ukrainian pilots complete training on F-16 jets

The first batch of Ukrainian Armed Forces pilots have graduated from F-16 training at an Arizona military base, an Air National Guard spokesman has said.

Capt. Eric Hannigan would not confirm how many have graduated or the exact date of graduation out of abundance of caution for their safety.

The pilots are now headed to Europe for additional training, according to a person with knowledge of their movements.

Ukraine is set to receive more than 60 F-16s from Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands and Belgium.



Read more on how the long-sought jets will offer Ukraine a lifeline here.

09:32 AM BST

Ukrainian missile attack on Crimea kills two

A Ukrainian missile attack has killed two people near Crimeas Simferopol, the head of the Russian-annexed territory has said

Sergei Aksyonov said the missile hit an empty building near Alushta on the peninsulas Black Sea coast.

It came as Russias defence ministry claimed that their air defences had intercepted three US-donated long-range Atacms missiles over Crimea, reported TASS news agency. Three Ukrainian sea drones firing towards the peninsula were also struck by Moscows forces, the ministry further claimed.

Ukraine has not issued an official statement.

Unofficial Ukrainian military bloggers reported a number of targets had been hit throughout the peninsula.

Russian bloggers on the peninsula wrote that not all incoming missiles had been intercepted.

09:23 AM BST

Watch: Telegraph Dispatch from Kharkiv Front Lines

We reported earlier than Russia has now seized more than half of the border town Vovchansk amid its renewed ground offensive (see post at 8:29 am).

Read the Telegraphs full frontline dispatch here.

08:55 AM BST

Strikes in Russia with US weapons would help Kyiv hold line, says official

The US should lift its absolutely unfair ban on the Ukrainian army using American-supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russia, Ukraines top national security official has said.

Oleksandr Lytvynenko said that lifting the restriction would be beneficial for Ukraine and could help to thwart Moscows renewed offensive.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has said that any strikes in Russian territory would be strictly for defence.

Washington has argued the ban was necessary to avoid further escalation with Moscow.

Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Lytvynenko - SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP

08:41 AM BST

US will announce $275 million more military aid, officials say

The United States is expected to announce an additional $275 million (234 million) in military aid for Ukraine on Friday as Kyiv struggles to hold off Russian advances in the Kharkiv region, said two US officials.

This will be the fourth instalment of military aid for Ukraine after US Congress last month passed a $61 billion (48 billion) major military aid package, following a six month delay during which Russia gained advantage on the battlefield.

It comes as the Biden administration promised to supply a regular flow of weapons and to ensure they reach the front lines as swiftly as possible.

08:29 AM BST

Russia seizes more than half of Vovchansk

Russian forces now control more than half the territory of border town Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, a Russian MP has said.

Viktor Vodolatskiy added that the towns of Slavyansk, Kramatorsk and Pokrovsk would be Russias next major targets once it takes over Vovchansk.

Soldiers of the assault brigade defend the frontline, which passes through the Ukrainian boarder city of Vovchansk - Libkos

08:19 AM BST

Russia unlikely to swallow the West whole, says Hungary

Fears that Russia would mount an attack on any Nato member are unfounded, the Hungarian prime minister has said.

Viktor Orban said on Friday that the war in Ukraine, now in its third year, highlights the limitations of Russias military power.

I do not consider it logical that Russia, which cannot even defeat Ukraine, would all of a sudden come and swallow the Western world whole, said Orban. The chances of this are extremely slim.

Hungary, a member of the European Union and Nato, has refused to provide military assistance to Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Viktor Orban, Hungary's prime minister - Bloomberg

08:08 AM BST

Russia accuses Nato of facilitating terrorists to fight for Ukraine

We reported earlier that the head of Russias Federal Security Service accused Ukraine of being directly involved in the attack on a concert hall near Moscow (see post at 7:47am).

Islamic State claimed responsibility for the massacre in March and US officials said they had intelligence showing it was carried out by the networks Afghan branch, Islamic State Khorasan.

Russian spy chief, Alexander Bortnikov, has now accused Nato of enabling the transfer of militants from terror groups in the Middle East, North Africa and Afghanistan to Ukraine to help push back against Russian forces.

07:58 AM BST

Zelensky: Recovery efforts in Kharkiv continue

The Kharkiv region is still recovering after being hit by multiple Russian attacks, said Ukraines president.

Volodymyr Zelensky said that one of Ukraines largest printing facilities was struck in the attack, killing and injuring a number of people.

Book storage and equipment were destroyed by fire. Many Ukrainian publishers had their books printed there...Russia want to burn and destroy all aspects of life, Zelensky wrote on X.

Recovery efforts in the Kharkiv region after Russian terror attacks continued throughout the day.



Among Russia's targets was one of Ukraine's largest printing facilities. Russian missile strike killed and injured a number of people. Book storage and equipment were destroyed by pic.twitter.com/Bjus49C8a0  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) May 23, 2024

07:47 AM BST

Ukraine directly involved in Moscow concert hall attack, says Russian spy chief

Ukrainian military intelligence was instrumental in a fatal attack on a concert hall near Moscow, the head of Russias Federal Security Service has said.

Alexander Bortnikov said an investigation was ongoing, but it was already safe to say that Ukrainian military intelligence is directly involved in this attack, he said.

The attack, which killed 144 people, was claimed by an offshoot of the Islamic State group.

Ukraine has repeatedly denied it had anything to do with the attack.

A massive blaze is seen on the western edge of Moscow after gunmen storm a concert hall, killing people coming to hear a rock group and setting the building on fire - Sergei Vedyashkin/Moscow News Agency

07:33 AM BST

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(Bloomberg) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiys main diplomatic push to secure broader global support against Russias invasion has suffered a double blow less than a month before leaders gather for a once-ambitious summit.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Brazil and China announced a rival initiative early Friday aiming to bring both Ukraine and Russia to the table. And it emerged that President Joe Biden would likely be a no-show at the Ukraine conference in Switzerland because it clashes with an election fundraiser in California alongside stars including George Clooney and Julia Roberts.

The shifting diplomatic terrain amounts to a downgrade for the June 15-16 meeting near Lucerne that Zelenskiy had hoped would be the initial culmination of his nearly two-year effort to rally world powers  above all in the Global South  behind demands that Russia withdraw its forces from Ukraine as a precondition for a peace deal.

Those goals look increasingly remote with steady Russian gains on the battlefield this year  and as support from potential allies outside the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the Group of Seven risks fading with each month the war thats grinding into its third year goes on.

Brazil and China invited other nations to support their call for an international conference involving Russia and Ukraine to discuss an end to the war. Its the first time theyve made a joint appeal on the war since Russia began the February 2022 invasion.

That threatens to cast a shadow over Ukraines gathering, to which the Swiss government has invited more than 160 countries. Russia isnt among them, as Ukraine and its allies dont want to engage with Moscow until a set of principles that would define any future peace settlement are broadly agreed.

Bidens likely absence as he pivots to campaign mode ahead of Novembers presidential election to try to erase Donald Trumps poll lead in key states also risks undercutting Kyiv. The two men have disparate views of NATO, with Biden publicly maintaining full-throated support and Trump saying that US backing should be conditioned upon whether member countries have fulfilled their defense spending allocations. Trump, without offering detail, has also said that he could forge a deal between Russia and Ukraine.

China and Brazil, both members of the BRICS group alongside Russia, have insisted that a diplomatic forum that excludes Moscow wont bring peace  a prospect that wont go down well with Ukraine.

Russia has long said its open to talks  a position viewed by critics as a tactic to undermine support for Kyiv, as Moscow presses forward with its war aims.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no intention of taking peace talks seriously based on acceptable terms, Ukraines allies have said. Putin himself insists any talks must take account of realities on the ground, a reference to areas of eastern and southern Ukraine occupied by his army.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the joint document with Brazil is aimed at garnering international support. We welcome more countries, whether developing or developed, to support and join the consensus, he said Friday in Beijing.

An inability to build bridges to nations such as Brazil, India and South Africa would be a blow to Kyivs diplomatic campaign since Zelenskiy unveiled the blueprint at a Group of 20 summit in November 2022. It would also represent a broader failure of the West to win over opinion in the Global South, which has been reticent to criticize the Kremlins war.

Several G-7 allies had cautioned Zelenskiys government against pushing for a summit before they had buy-in from key parties, above all China. While the Swiss hosts are holding out for at least a Chinese special envoy, Beijing has yet to say whom it will send.

Zelenskiy is expected to join G-7 leaders at their June meeting in Italy just before the Swiss gathering. While several plan to travel on to the Swiss Alpine resort, neither Biden nor Vice President Kamala Harris are scheduled to attend, according to people familiar with the deliberations.

Though Ukraines peace blueprint ultimately aims to forge a set of broadly embraced principles  such as respecting territorial integrity before engaging in talks  the objectives of the Swiss meeting have been whittled down to a narrower set of goals as a way to ensure China and other BRICS nations were on board.

While its not yet clear wholl represent the Biden administration at the talks, the US presence is expected to be robust. Organizers forecast a big turnout of leaders.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who will attend the meeting, made clear that the focus will be on nuclear safety, grain exports and prisoner exchanges. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau plans to attend, while Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas presence is likely.

The peace conference in Switzerland is a building block, Scholz told reporters in Berlin on Friday, adding that he expects a high attendance. There will be this and certainly other such peace conferences.

Whatever the outcome, Ukrainian allies will aim to sell it as a success, according to an official involved with the planning. So far, however, the meeting is on course to miss a benchmark privately set by organizers, for the participation of 100 leaders, including from key nations.

Putin has been working to stymie the effort, using the Kremlins diplomatic channels to Asia, Africa and South America to try to convince leaders to stay away.

The Russian president and officials including Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov have been in talks with dozens of nations  from India to tiny Comoros  with the apparent aim of deterring participation, according to a diplomatic memo seen by Bloomberg.

Lavrov has also reached out to ambassadors in Moscow with the same goal, according to the memo, and a June 10-11 meeting of foreign ministers from BRICS countries and their allies may seal that effort.

Zelenskiy on Thursday described Moscows attempts to scupper the summit as the key goal for Russian diplomacy and foreign intelligence for the nearest future.

--With assistance from Alberto Nardelli, Jennifer Jacobs, Michael Nienaber, Colum Murphy and Alessandro Speciale.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, has announced the start of official negotiations between Ukraine and Poland on a bilateral security agreement.

Source: Stefanchuk at a joint briefing with Polish Senate Marshal Magorzata Kidawa-Bonska on Friday, reported by Interfax-Ukraine

Details: "Today is a very important day in the history of our relations, because today we are starting official negotiations on the text of the agreement on security guarantees between Ukraine and Poland," Stefanchuk said.

He emphasised that both sides wanted "this agreement to be as ambitious as possible".

Stefanchuk noted that he had discussed with his Polish counterpart the formation of an international compensation mechanism for Ukraine and inter-parliamentary cooperation.

For her part, Kidawa-Bonska stressed that everything should be done to continue international support for Ukraine.

"We are convinced that good coordination of political initiatives by individual governments and parliaments is essential to maintaining broad international support for Ukraine," said Kidawa-Bonska.

She spoke about the agreement with Stefanchuk to continue working at all levels, from parliamentary speakers and various parliamentary groups to individual MPs.

"We will do everything to ensure that the process of Ukraine's integration with the European Union and Ukraine's negotiations with the European Union begin this year. Of course, it will be a long and complicated process, but it is better that it starts," she said.

Background:

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a telephone conversation with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on 16 May. They agreed to immediately start working on the text of a bilateral security agreement.

Prior to that, Vasyl Zvarych, Ukraines Ambassador to Poland, said that interagency coordination of the text of the security agreement was underway in Poland and that the draft should be handed over to the Ukrainian side in the coming days.

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The air-launched version of the Small Diameter Bomb (SDB), the GBU-39, has been used in combat by Ukraine, a U.S. official confirmed today. Previously, Ukraine had only been confirmed as having received the Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB), although the value of this weapon in combat has recently been questioned .

One U.S. weapon used by aircraft, the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb, has proved resilient to jamming, according to The Washington Post, in an article today citing confidential internal Ukrainian assessments. The same article notes that nearly 90 percent of dropped [Small Diameter Bombs] struck their target.

GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs), mounted on a U.S. Air Force A-10C attack aircraft. U.S. Air Force

No details are provided about the numbers of SDBs provided to Ukraine and which aircraft are dropping them, but the article states that they began to be delivered to Ukraine in November 2023. This again raises the question of whether the wreckage of weapons used in the conflict that were previously assumed to be GLSDBs were actually SDBs all along. This is a possibility that TWZ considered when wreckage of this kind first appeared, in February this year.

Wreckage recovered in Ukraine that was initially identified as a GLSDB. It may have been an SDB all along. via X

TWZ has also looked at the potential for Ukraine to arm its forthcoming F-16 fighters with SDBs, noting specifically the advantages it brings in terms of accuracy, standoff range, ability to strike semi-hardened static targets, and the large numbers in NATO stockpiles to draw from.

It's also worth noting that Russia has begun using its own SDB-like glide munition, which you can read all about here .

On the other hand, the surface-launched counterpart of the SDB, the GLSDB has been much less successful, Ukrainian officials told The Washington Post.

Able to strike targets at a distance of around 94 miles, each GLSDB weapon combines an air-launched 250-pound GBU-39/B SDB, which has a set of pop-out wings, with the rocket booster motor from a 227mm-caliber M26 artillery rocket that can also be fired by HIMARS and MLRS.

Concept artwork of a GLSDB. Saab

The ineffective nature of the GLSDB had been reported before, although its interesting to consider that the air-launched version of the same weapon is much more reliable.

According to the same documents, the smaller surface area of the SDB makes it harder for Russian air defense systems to detect and intercept it.

As for the surface-launched version, a Ukrainian official told The Washington Post that modifications are now being made to the design before more examples are delivered to Ukraine.

In an article that cites three people familiar with the issue, Reuters reports that Russian electronic warfare has blunted the effectiveness of the GLSDB, with jamming targeting the weapons satellite navigation system.

Reuters quotes Boeing as saying that while the current GLSDB can defeat some jamming, one of the sources it spoke to explained that a full solution would take months.

https://www.twitter.com/ColbyBadhwar/status/1793760000306782519

Before diving into more developments from the conflict in Ukraine, The War Zone readers can review our previous coverage here .

The Latest

As the Russian offensive in the Kharkiv region of eastern Ukraine continues, the Kremlins forces have been carrying out further strikes against the region. According to local officials, Russian missiles killed at least seven civilians in Kharkiv yesterday. At least 20 more people were wounded in the attack, which used repurposed S-300 surface-to-air missiles, regional governor, Oleh Syniehubov, said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attack as extremely cruel and expressed renewed frustration at not getting enough air defense systems from Western allies.

Zelensky also said that Russia has stockpiled 10,000 S-300 missiles, which can be used for both land attack as well as their original air defense role. You can read more about the S-300's secondary strike capability here.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1792971816392114438

After Kharkiv, Ukrainian officials fear that the Sumy region, in northeast Ukraine, could be the focus of the next major Russian offensive.

According to local officials, Russian troops are already making incursions in the region. Regional governor Volodymyr Artiukh confirmed that nearly 1,500 people, including 200 children, have already been evacuated from the towns of Bilopillia and Vorozhba in the Sumy region.

https://www.twitter.com/EuromaidanPress/status/1790374008686334080

Ukraines army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi recently said that his troops are preparing to defend against a new offensive in the region.

The war of words between China and the United Kingdom continues to escalate. After a senior British government official accused China of providing or preparing to provide lethal aid to Russia for the war in Ukraine, Beijing blamed the United Kingdom for derailing a potential peace deal.

U.S. and British defense intelligence have evidence that lethal aid is now, or will be, flowing from China to Russia and into Ukraine, said British Secretary of State for Defense Grant Shapps.

In a statement in response, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: It is Britain, not China, that is adding oil to the fire of the Ukrainian conflict; it was London that prevented Russia and Kyiv from reaching an agreement two years ago  a reference to claims that the then British Prime Minister Boris Johnson pressured Kyiv into continuing the fight, rather than accepting ceasefire terms.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1793553376581648574

There are signs now that another ceasefire proposal could be on the table.

According to Reuters, four Russian sources confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to halt the war in Ukraine if a negotiated ceasefire can be agreed upon that recognizes the current battlefield lines.

Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war, one of the senior Russian sources reportedly said.

https://www.twitter.com/idreesali114/status/1793958682478157918

Changes are afoot in the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, where there are plans to reduce the number of staff by 60 percent, with some of them being sent to combat units. The plans were confirmed by Brig. Gen. Yevhenii Ostrianskyi, Head of the Main Department of Defense Planning of the General Staff.

A functional review was conducted at the General Staff in February-March this year, which resulted in a decision to optimize the staffing of some structural units and military command and control bodies, Ostrianskyi said. This process includes the disbanding of a number of military organizational structures, the formation of new ones, and the optimization of existing ones.

https://www.twitter.com/hdevreij/status/1794022729852543032

In the latest twist in the Starlink saga, there are reports that Russia has illicitly acquired examples of the satellite-based internet terminal for use in its invasion of Ukraine.

A senior U.S. defense official told Congress that the Pentagon is now working with SpaceX to identify and disable Starlink terminals now in the hands of Russian forces, Space News reports .

John Hill, the Pentagons deputy chief of space policy, said that SpaceX has been more than cooperative and forward-leaning in working to find the Russian-operated terminals and then shut them down.

https://www.twitter.com/Robert4787/status/1793380970839908430

The first group of Ukrainian Air Force pilots to convert to the F-16 have completed their training syllabus in the United States and are now headed to Europe for further training on the fighter.

According to Politico , the first cadre of Ukrainian pilots have now graduated from their F-16 course at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona, facilitated by the 162nd Wing. As we reported in the past , this first course began in October 2023.

The Air National Guard has not confirmed how many pilots graduated from the course or the exact date that they completed it, out of an abundance of caution for their safety.

https://www.twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1793806539737673908

More potential Ukrainian F-16 pilots are meanwhile undergoing training in France, on the Alpha Jet advanced jet trainer. The ten pilots are reportedly from the same group who graduated from elementary flying training with the U.K. Royal Air Force in March of this year.

https://www.twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1793251812398542878

The nature of the opposition that future Ukrainian Air Force F-16 pilots may face is well summed up in the next video, official footage from the Russian Ministry of Defense showing Russian Navy Su-30SM multirole fighters in action. The video claims to show portions of a combat mission, during which Su-30SMs are seen dropping freefall bombs and performing strafe with their 30mm cannons. However, it cannot be confirmed if this is genuine combat camera footage, or whether it actually shows an exercise over the Black Sea. Still, the threat posed by small unmanned surface vessels has all capable aircraft in Crimea tasked with hunting and destroying them.

https://www.twitter.com/MrFrantarelli/status/1793257339463610854

Meanwhile, another Russian attack on a Ukrainian air base again demonstrates the need for new fighter equipment for the Ukrainian Air Force. While the results of this attack cannot be confirmed, mainly due to the poor quality of the video, the ability of Russian forces to strike at the bases, apparently at will, is certainly concerning.

In this instance, the target was a MiG-29 Fulcrum fighter, apparently at an air base near Aviatorske in the Dnipropetrovsk region of southeastern Ukraine.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1793331903451324449

In the United States, House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul has called upon Secretary of State Antony Blinken to lift the ban on Ukraines military using U.S.-supplied weapons to hit targets across the border in Russia.

They cannot achieve victory with the restrictions you placed on them, McCaul told Blinken, during a congressional hearing.

In recent weeks, there have been signals that the United States may be about to reconsider the restrictions it placed on the Ukrainian use of long-range weapons, in particular, to strike back against Russian drone and missile launch sites that are used for attacks on Ukraine.

As part of the hearing, the Texas congressman presented a map showing the potential reach of U.S.-supplied Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) munitions and Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) short-range ballistic missiles.

The map also included Russian artillery, rockets, and missiles on the Russian side of the border in a sanctuary zone that Ukraine is not currently allowed to hit with U.S.-supplied heavy weaponry, even in self-defense.

In response, Blinken said that the Biden administration was not enabling or endorsing attacks outside Ukraine  but Ukraine will have to make, and will make, its own decisions and I want to make sure it gets the equipment it needs to effectively defend itself.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1793370398589079707

Meanwhile, the impact of the U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles continues to be felt within Ukrainian borders including Russian-occupied Crimea.

One account, purportedly from a Russian military commissar, warns soldiers that: The enemy has a means of destruction to a depth of at least 300 kilometers  or 186 miles  before pointing specifically to the hazard posed by the ATACMS version with a cluster warhead.

The commissar warns that soldiers should not organize formations or concentrations of personnel closer than 300 kilometers from the contact line and also alerts troops to potential follow-on strikes against the same target. He says that Ukraine very often sends another missile against the excessive concentration of personnel that might be found at the rescue site.

https://www.twitter.com/wartranslated/status/1792684706787442703

There has been another flurry of reports about potential ATACMS strikes on the Russian-occupied Crimea peninsula.

Ukrainian military bloggers and unofficial media reported that several targets were hit throughout the peninsula overnight.

News outlet RBK-Ukraine reported that targets likely included a Russian Coast Guard headquarters and intelligence centers.

While the reports cannot be independently verified at this point, the Russia-appointed head of the Crimea peninsula admitted that a Ukrainian missile attack killed two people near Simferopol, the main administrative center.

https://www.twitter.com/TreasChest/status/1793883481078149352 https://www.twitter.com/vcdgf555/status/1793887913668944176

Elsewhere in Crimea, it appears that Russia is constructing additional barriers around the Kerch Bridge in what looks to be a measure to defend against the growing threat posed by Ukraines naval drones. The bridge has been targeted by naval drones before, including in July 2023, as you can read about here .

https://www.twitter.com/bradyafr/status/1793288204403007765

Recent satellite imagery from the port of Sevastopol, the home of the Black Sea Fleet in Crimea, reveals what may be the signs of a recent ship loss there. Imagery from May 23 suggests that a vessel may recently have been sunk off a pier at the base, with its mast apparently seen protruding from the water. There are also potential signs of damage close to a building on the edge of the water.

Earlier this week, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense posted claims for the destruction of two more Black Sea Fleet vessels, the Project 22800 Karakurt class missile corvette Tsiklon and the Project 266M Akvamarin class minesweeper Kovrovets.

https://www.twitter.com/MT_Anderson/status/1793695386072457216

There have been more calls from within the European Union to establish a robust, continental air defense system to better protect against potential future attacks from Russia.

In particular, Greece and Poland are now saying they want to see the European Union create an air defense shield against Russia.

Europe will be safe as long as the skies over it are safe, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis, wrote in a joint letter to the European Union chief, Ursula Von der Leyen. The two leaders called for a comprehensive air defense system to protect our common E.U. airspace against all incoming threats.

https://www.twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/1793926650821746996

While we have seen the Ukrainian-operated ASRAAM air-to-air missile in its unique surface-launched application before, we havent seen the missile itself in such close detail as in the next video. The infrared-guided missile is mounted on a 6x6 Supacat all-terrain truck chassis, with a twin-rail launcher for a pair of the missiles mounted at the rear.

https://www.twitter.com/thinkdefence/status/1793641353735291028

Recent evidence suggests the Russian Armed Forces may be struggling to field adequate numbers of suitable vehicles as the offensive in Ukraine grinds on.

Two recent examples show the UAZ-452 series four-wheel-drive off-road van, better known as the bukhanka, in use as an infantry carrier.

https://www.twitter.com/secretsqrl123/status/1792721707909972419

More extraordinary still is this civilian automobile, also pressed into military service.

https://www.twitter.com/secretsqrl123/status/1792721396658995474

Meanwhile, there are reports that around a dozen PAZ series civilian buses have been adapted by Russia to serve as mobile command centers for drone operations. Each of the adapted buses is said to have space for up to seven drone operators.

https://www.twitter.com/GrandpaRoy2/status/1793733628901646792

Ukrainian vehicles next, both military and agricultural.

The first video shows a Ukrainian Armed Forces T-80BV tank fitted with a novel collapsible anti-drone screen over the turret. This can be folded down to provide better access and vision from the turret, as well as making it possible to use the turret-mounted machine gun. If drones are present, the screen can quickly be erected to provide protection.

https://www.twitter.com/AndreiBtvt/status/1792924520153555416

As well as blasting Russian tanks with its 25mm cannon, the M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle can play a more humanitarian role on the battlefield, as seen in the next video. Here, one of the Ukrainian IFVs is seen coming to the rescue of the crew of another vehicle of the same type, picking the soldiers up and getting them out of danger while still under fire.

https://www.twitter.com/TOGAjano21/status/1794013852809482418

In the next video, Ukrainian soldiers, reportedly in the Kharkiv area, were woken by what they thought was an advancing Russian tank. In fact, the vehicle was a much-less threatening proposition: a crop-sprayer belonging to a local farmer.

https://www.twitter.com/GrandpaRoy2/status/1793802539001057758

An interesting example of a measure taken by Ukrainian industry to maximize the lethality of their weapons. In this case, steel pipe is produced with indentations that are designed to create more fragmentation, and spread lethal fragments over a wider distance. The piping is then used for the bodies of explosive devices carried by first-person-view (FPV) and other types of drones.

https://www.twitter.com/GrandpaRoy2/status/1793040086382084520

Finally, two types of U.S.-supplied man-portable missiles that made a major impact when they first appeared in the conflict, but which have not necessarily been seen regularly in more recent months.

The first of the FIM-92 Stinger shoulder-launched surface-to-air missile, a weapon that has long been in demand to deal with low-level threats, including drones.

https://www.twitter.com/front_ukrainian/status/1792866025408438728

Next, the FGM-148 Javelin anti-armor missile, a weapon that gained fame for the heavy toll it took on Russian armor early on in the invasion.

https://www.twitter.com/front_ukrainian/status/1793899333697298687

That's it until our next update.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
JINAN, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed comprehensively deepening reform to drive Chinese modernization during an inspection trip to the eastern economic powerhouse of Shandong Province.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, urged the coastal province to pursue reform-driven high-quality development and build itself into "a hub of high-level opening up."

Shandong, a frontier of China's reform and opening up, is now an industrial base and a major grain producer. With a population of 100 million, the province ranked third in GDP last year among all provincial-level regions in China. Shandong is also the birthplace of Confucius.

Xi's trip to Shandong, lasting from Wednesday to Friday, is the first local inspection he has made since the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau held a meeting on April 30.

It was decided at the meeting that the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee will be held in Beijing in July, and that the session will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization.

"Strive for excellence in comprehensively deepening reform and advancing high-level opening up," Xi told local officials during the tour.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits Rizhao Port to learn about the local progress in promoting the smart and green development of the port, expanding the opening up, in Rizhao, east China's Shandong Province, May 22, 2024. Xi inspected the city of Rizhao in east China's Shandong Province on Wednesday afternoon. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

On Wednesday afternoon, Xi first visited Rizhao Port, where he observed automated container terminal operations.

The port, constructed after China launched the reform and opening-up drive in the late 1970s, has evolved into a modern facility over the decades, gaining valuable experience in upgrading and transforming traditional industries to foster new quality productive forces.

Later, Xi toured a coastal greenway in Rizhao to learn about local efforts in ecological restoration.

"The goal of advancing Chinese modernization is to make people's lives better and better," Xi said.

On Friday morning, he attended a meeting in Jinan, the provincial capital, to hear reports on the work of the province's Party and government authorities.

Xi underscored the need to fully unleash the potential of integrating the real economy with the digital economy and to develop new quality productive forces based on local conditions.

It was imperative to push ahead with the transition to the model of green and low-carbon development, boost sci-tech innovation in green and environmental protection sectors and spur the development of such industries, as well as build a world-class cluster of seaports to set the pace for modern marine economy development, he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a coastal greenway to learn about the local progress in strengthening the ecological protection and restoration of the coastline, and improving the quality of people's lives, in Rizhao, east China's Shandong Province, May 22, 2024. Xi inspected the city of Rizhao in east China's Shandong Province on Wednesday afternoon. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Xi said Shandong should work actively to build international logistics corridors, be innovative in promoting the coordination of free trade zones, deeply integrate itself into the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, build competent platforms for significant international exchanges and cooperation, and play an important role in facilitating the dual circulation of domestic and international markets.

He urged efforts to vigorously promote the development of modern agriculture, develop the region into a higher-level "granary," and expand the paths toward common prosperity.

Xi stressed the need to facilitate dialogue and mutual understanding between civilizations and amplify Chinese culture's global reach and influence through platforms such as the International Confucius Cultural Festival.

He also highlighted the pivotal role of upholding the Party's leadership and strengthening work related to Party building in advancing Chinese modernization.

Senior officials including Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.

On Thursday morning, Xi met with senior officers of the Chinese People's Liberation Army troops stationed in Jinan. 
Ukraine in talks with EU to maximise electricity imports, minister says

By Pavel Polityuk

KYIV (Reuters) -Ukraine is negotiating to maximise possible imports of electricity from European Union countries to compensate for the generation capacity destroyed by the Russian attacks, Ukrainian energy minister said on Friday.

Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's energy sector have intensified since March, resulting in significant damage and blackouts in many regions.

The attacks have caused more than $1 billion of damage to the sector, leading to the loss of 8,000 MWh of generating capacity from the energy system, the government says.

Currently, Ukraine can import from the EU states no more than 1,700 Mwh of electricity simultaneously.

"We're negotiating. Our task is to maximise this figure," Energy Minister German Galushchenko told parliament.

"Technically, we can receive (import) more than 2,000 Mwh, even 2,400 Mwh. I'm sure a decision will be made," he added.

Volodymyr Kudrytskiy, the head of Ukraine's national power grid operator Ukrenergo, told Ukraine's Telegraf that 1,700 Mwh is "the ceiling for now".

"Everything will depend on how quickly our European colleagues - energy system operators of neighbouring countries - will be able to implement projects to expand the capacity of their grids," Kudrytskiy said.

He said that European grid companies need time and money to reinforce some of their substations, install additional transformers or build new transmission lines.

"We think 3,500 to 4,000 Mwh of interstate interconnector capacity is something we can have in the horizon of five years," Kudrytskiy noted.

IMPORTS

Energy minister Galushchenko did not say exactly how much imports are being discussed now, but Maxim Timchenko, the head of Ukraine's largest private energy company, DTEK, said earlier this month that an increase to 2,200 Mwh could significantly improve the situation.

DTEK has lost about 90% of its power generation capacity due to Russian missile attacks in recent months.

DTEK data showed that Ukraine consumed around 13,000 Mwh before the attacks as of March 17 but after a series of Russian attacks on the energy system, consumption fell to 9,100 Mwh.

Due to power shortages, Ukrainian power grid operator Ukrenergo has been forced to introduce regular shutdowns of industrial consumers and households and maintain high import rates.

Problems with power generation can have a "potentially negative impact" on industry, especially the largest electricity consumers, the economy ministry said this week.

(Editing by David Evans)
Ukraine has been urgently supplied with electricity to overcome the deficit in the power system last night.

Source: press service of National Power Company Ukrenergo

Quote: "Yesterday, on 23 May, emergency electricity supply to Ukraine was activated from 09:00 to 24:00 from the power systems in Romania, Poland, and Slovakia at the request of Ukrenergo to overcome the deficit in the power system."

Details: Last night, from 02:00 to 07:00, emergency power supply was provided from Poland and Romania.

In addition, electricity imports in the total amount of 15,315 MWh from Romania, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, and Moldova are planned throughout the day, with a maximum capacity of up to 1,350 MW during some hours.

For reference: Emergency supply is requested when the country's power system experiences a shortage of electricity and, in order not to limit consumers, the operator turns to a neighbouring country for help.

Background:

Hourly outage schedules will be in effect for industrial and residential consumers throughout Ukraine from 00:00 to 24:00. The power supply to critical infrastructure facilities will not be limited.

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Key updates on May 24:

General Staff: Russian troops halted in Kharkiv sector, Ukraine conducts counterattacks

Putin looking for ceasefire to cement gains in Ukraine, Reuters reports citing sources

Attack on occupied Crimea damages communications equipment, casualties reported, partisans claim

First group of Ukrainian pilots passes F-16 training in US

Russian attacks against Ukraine kill 10, injure 48 over past day

Ukrainian forces halted Russian troops in the Kharkiv sector and are conducting counterattacks, Ihor Prokhorenko, a representative of the Main Operational Directorate of Ukraine's General Staff, said at a briefing in Kyiv on May 24.

"At the moment, (Russian forces) have been halted, the situation is under control, we are carrying out counterattacks," Prokhorenko said.

Russia launched a new offensive on May 10 in northern Kharkiv Oblast. Moscow's forces had managed to advance as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) into the region but had been halted by the first line of defense, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 16.

Prokhorenko described the situation on the battlefield as "difficult," saying Ukrainian soldiers continue to hold the line in the country's east and south. Kharkiv and Donetsk oblasts are the areas of the most intense fighting, he said.

"Regarding the Kharkiv sector, the enemy is conducting offensive operations to create a buffer zone," the colonel said, adding that "the situation is under control."

Russian troops are advancing in the east of Kharkiv Oblast, planning to bypass the town of Kupiansk, but have not yet succeeded, Prokhorenko said.

"Fierce fighting is ongoing almost along the entire front line. Defense forces are inflicting heavy losses on the invader; our artillery, unmanned systems, and aviation are actively working," he added.

Russian troops are "completely bogged down" in street battles for the town of Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast and deploying their reserves from different sectors, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said on May 23.

Russia's offensive in Kharkiv Oblast in mid-May could be the first of several waves, and Russian forces may target the regional capital, Kharkiv, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Read also: Russias latest offensive into Kharkiv Oblast is stretching Ukrainian defenses

Putin looking for ceasefire to cement gains in Ukraine, Reuters reports citing sources

Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a ceasefire that recognizes the current front lines on the battlefield but will fight on if Ukraine and its allies do not agree, Reuters reported on May 24, citing undisclosed Russian sources.

"Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire  to freeze the war," a senior Russian source who has worked with him told the news outlet on condition of anonymity.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.

Except for unsuccessful talks during the early spring of 2022, there have been no direct peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

Kyiv has said categorically that a full Russian withdrawal is necessary for any talks to go ahead, a condition that makes up one of the points in Ukraine's 10-point peace formula, first outlined by President Volodymyr Zelensky in the fall of 2022.

Reuters spoke to five Russian sources, three of whom said Putin had expressed frustration to advisors at what he views as Western meddling in attempts to bring Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table.

The sources also said Putin knows that any major battlefield successes would require a new wave of mobilization in Russia, something he hopes to avoid, fearing domestic unrest.

When asked about the reports, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that Russia was open to dialogue and did not want "eternal war."

Ukrainian officials recently said the country "clearly understands" that Russia's full-scale war will end with negotiations, but a ceasefire that recognizes Russia's claims to the territory currently under its control is unlikely to be agreed upon by Kyiv.

Instead, Ukraine continues to push its peace plan, and a global summit will be held in Switzerland next month that will be centered around Zelensky's peace formula.

"This is a real diplomatic track that has every chance of contributing to a just peace," National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Lytvynenko said on May 20.

"But we do not need a two-year truce; we need a sustainable peace for decades, which would enable Ukraine's development. And this is a matter of security guarantees."

Similar reports claiming that Putin is ready for peace talks emerged earlier. Bloomberg wrote in January that, according to sources close to the Kremlin, the Russian leader was sending signals to the West indicating a willingness to compromise on Ukraine joining NATO in exchange for keeping Ukrainian territories.

Putin has made made no indication of such a concession in public.

Read also: Modi confirms Indias participation in Ukraines Global Peace Summit

Attack on occupied Crimea damages communications equipment, casualties reported, partisans claim

A missile attack on a Russian communications hub in the city of Alushta in occupied Crimea has caused "significant damage to equipment," with numerous casualties reported, the pro-Ukrainian partisan group Atesh reported on May 24.

The Crimean Wind telegram channel further reported that a large military antenna was struck in the community of Semydviria, just 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) east of Alushta. The antenna was previously used by Ukraine's military prior to Russia's occupation of Crimea in 2014.

Atesh also reported that the communications hub's command center may have been destroyed in the attack, although no information is currently available on the military facility's status.

Crimean Wind claimed that the communications center was hit by at least six U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles. The projectiles allegedly struck the antenna as well as several buildings of the facility, where "high-ranking military personnel... were located at the moment."

"Explosions were heard in almost all regions of Crimea. Russian air defenses were active in many, but they were not very effective," the channel claimed.

Ukraine's Armed Forces have yet to take responsibility for the attack, nor have they provided comment.

Earlier on May 23, Sergey Aksyonov, the proxy head of Russian occupation authorities in Crimea, alleged that as a result of the missile attack on the Simferopol region, two bystanders were killed.

Aksyonov further claimed the attack had damaged "empty" commercial property, which was also recorded in the Alushta area.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims, and no information is presently available on the extent of the casualties.

At the start of the attack, sounds of explosions were reported in Sevastopol, Yevpatoriia, and Alushta in occupied Crimea during the late hours of May 23, according to Suspilne Crimea.

At around 10:18 p.m. local time, Suspilne reported hearing explosions in Yevpatoriia. By 10:30 p.m., passenger transport had been suspended in Sevastopol. A video later surfaced online, presumably depicting an explosion in the Alushta district on the southern coast of Crimea. At least five explosions were reported in Alushta.

Within the hour, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Krym Realii announced that residents heard three explosions near the territory of the Belbek airfield in Sevastopol, as well as the work of air defense from Novofedorivka. A total of eight explosions were allegedly heard.

The Crimean Wind telegram channel reported around 0:26 a.m. that a fire had broken out at a military site in the community of Semydviria, about 4 kilometers east of Alushta.

Additional sounds of explosions were reported by residents of Sevastopol around 3 a.m., according to Crimean Wind.

Read also: General Staff confirms Russian missile ship Tsiklon struck in occupied Crimea

First group of Ukrainian pilots passes F-16 training in US

The first batch of Ukrainian pilots graduated from the F-16 training program in Arizona, a spokesperson of the U.S. Air National Guard, Erin Hannigan, told Politico in comments published on May 23.

Ukraine is bound to receive dozens of American-made fourth-generation fighter jets from the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and Norway. Several countries, including the U.S., pledged to assist Ukrainian aviators with the necessary training under the fighter jet coalition framework.

Hannigan did not disclose the number of the first graduates or the exact date of graduation "out of an abundance of caution for their safety."

The aviators will now move to Europe for additional training, Politico wrote, citing an undisclosed source.

The first group of Ukrainian pilots began training at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona, last October. The lessons are facilitated by the Air National Guard's 162nd Wing.

Other pilots are receiving training in Denmark, and Romania also opened an F-16 training facility for Ukrainian aviators.

Earlier this week, the Dutch Defense Ministry announced that the first 10 Ukrainian military personnel completed F-16 maintenance training in the Netherlands.

Read also: F-16s for Ukraine: When will they arrive and what can they do?

Russian attacks against Ukraine kill 10, injure 48 over past day

Russian attacks against Ukraine killed at least 10 people and injured at least 48 over the past day, the vast majority of them in Kharkiv Oblast, regional officials reported early on May 24.

An S-300 missile attack against Kharkiv hit a local printing shop, setting it on fire and killing seven of its employees. Twenty-one other civilians were injured in the city, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

Throughout May 23 and overnight, two more people were reportedly killed and 23 were injured, including an 11-year-old boy, in Kharkiv and elsewhere in the oblast.

In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Russian drone and artillery strikes against the Nikopol district injured two civilians and damaged a four-story building, a shop, and cars, Governor Serhii Lysak said.

Russian attacks against Donetsk Oblast injured two residents of Toretsk, according to Governor Vadym Filashkin.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, one man was killed in a Russian attack against the Polohy district, Governor Ivan Fedorov said.

Chernihiv, Kherson, Luhansk, Mykolaiv, and Sumy oblasts also came under attack, but no casualties were reported.

Read also: Zelensky visits Kharkiv printing house destroyed in Russian attack

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukraines Air Force hit 16 clusters of Russian military personnel on 24 May.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 19:30 on 24 May

Quote: "Over the past 24 hours, the number of combat clashes on the Russian-Ukrainian war front has increased to 77. Russian invaders are making every effort to break through our defences, and are exhausting their offensive potential in these attempts.

Ukrainian troops are holding their positions, conducting counterattacks and defeating the enemy. Over the course of the day, our aircraft struck 16 areas where Russian occupiers' personnel were concentrated. [Ukraine's] Rocket Forces and Artillery hit a cluster of personnel, two infrastructure facilities and conducted remote mining of one area."

Details: The General Staff reports that on the Kharkiv front, the Russians tried to drive Ukrainian units out of their positions 12 times. Three assault operations are ongoing. The situation near Vovchansk is intense, but controlled by Ukraine's Defence Forces. Today, Russian forces launched an aerial terror attack on this settlement: a total of eight guided aerial bombs were dropped on the town. The Russians also dropped two more guided bombs near Bilyi Kolodiaz, and one airstrike hit Mala Danylivka.

Six combat clashes continue on the Kupiansk front, out of 18 since the beginning of the day.

On the Kramatorsk front, there is currently one combat clash in progress. A total of 12 combat clashes took place on this front today.

Since the beginning of the day, Russian losses on the Kramatorsk front amount to 25 killed and wounded, and 6 units of weapons and military equipment destroyed.

On the Pokrovsk front, 14 combat clashes have taken place so far. The Russians, with the support of aircraft, are trying to direct their main assault efforts towards the settlements of Novooleksandrivka and Novoselivka Persha.

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Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has warned Ukraines allies against believing Russia's alleged intention to cease hostilities, as these are only tactics employed to disrupt the summit in Switzerland.

Source: Kuleba on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Dmytro Kuleba questioned the sudden media reports that cite Russian "sources" claiming that Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin seeks a truce.

Quote: "Its simple. Putin is desperately trying to derail the Peace Summit in Switzerland on 15-16 June. He is scared of its success. His entourage sends these phoney signals of alleged readiness for a cease-fire despite the fact that Russian troops continue to brutally attack Ukraine while their missiles and drones rain down on Ukrainian cities and communities," the foreign minister said.

He stressed that Putin clearly does not want to stop the Russian aggression against Ukraine now.

"Only the principled and united voice of the global majority can force him to choose peace over war. This is what the Peace Summit is intended to achieve. This is why he is so afraid of it. And this is why it is critical to have as many leaders as possible from all continents and parts of the world present. When the entire world speaks out in support of restoring the full force of the UN Charter and international law, Russia will be forced to choose peace," Kuleba asserted

The Global Peace Summit will take place in Burgenstock, Switzerland, on 15-16 June. More than 160 countries and international organisations have been invited to attend, but not Russia.

President Zelenskyy said that Ukraine expects the attendees of the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland to draw up an action plan on three points.

He also explained that Russia will be involved in negotiations after that.

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Two S300 anti-aircraft missiles hit the premises of a printing plant in the south of Kharkiv. Five people were killed and a dozen injured. Nicolas Cleuet/Le Pictorium via ZUMA Press/dpa

Two glide bombs hit Kharkiv in a renewed overnight attack on the north-eastern Ukrainian city which has been the target of Russian airstrikes for months.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said on Telegram that there were no casualties reported and several residential buildings as well as an uninhabited building were slightly damaged.

Seven people were killed by Russian strikes in Kharkiv on Thursday when at least 15 missiles hit the city and the surrounding area during daytime hours.

One of Ukraine's major printing presses was hit in that attack. "The Ukrainian book is the Ukrainian strength. That's why the enemy wants to destroy it," commented the internationally renowned Ukrainian writer Serhiy Zhadan on Facebook.

Kharkiv has been one of the hardest-hit cities during Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine, which began more than two years ago.

The metropolis has been repeatedly attacked from the air - with drones, missiles and glide bombs.

Two weeks ago, Russian armed forces also launched a ground offensive in the Kharkiv border region. The foremost Russian troops are currently less than 20 kilometres from the edge of the city.

Two S300 anti-aircraft missiles hit the premises of a printing plant in the south of Kharkiv. Five people were killed and a dozen injured. Nicolas Cleuet/Le Pictorium via ZUMA Press/dpa
The Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) has revealed what was on the agenda for the meetings held with a delegation from the Polish Senate, led by the Speaker, who arrived in Kyiv on 24 May.

Source: European Pravda, citing statements by the governments press services

Details: Ruslan Stefanchuk, Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, said he had thanked Poland for the aid it has provided to Ukraine and outlined Ukraines current military aid priorities, which include additional air defence systems and radio-electronic warfare systems, armoured equipment, drones and anti-drone systems, and long-range missiles.

"We are grateful to Poland for joining the Czech initiative to fund the procurement of artillery shells for Ukraine, and for the Polish Parliaments recent decision to extend temporary protection for the citizens of Ukraine," Stefanchuk stated.

Denys Shmyhal, Prime Minister of Ukraine, said their conversation had covered a number of areas: military support, European and Euro-Atlantic integration, sanctions against Russia, the confiscation of Russian assets, and the development of border infrastructure.

"The energy situation was discussed separately. We rely on Polands assistance in the supply of the equipment we need, mainly generators, modular boiler houses and gas turbines. We intend to decentralise the Ukrainian power system to make it less vulnerable to the enemy," Shmyhal noted.

He added that he had thanked the Polish government for supplying Ukraine with ammunition for air defence systems, but did not specify the batch of aid in question.

"We highly appreciate the extraordinary level of support for our state from Poland and the Polish people," Shmyhal added.

Background:

Magorzata Kidawa-Bonska, Marshal of the Polish Senate, stressed the importance of protecting the friendship between Ukraine and Poland in her speech at the Verkhovna Rada.

During a joint briefing, Stefanchuk announced the start of negotiations between Ukraine and Poland on a bilateral security agreement.

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Ukrainian to be implemented as second foreign language in schools in Hessen federal land in Germany

Hessen seeks to become the first federal land of Germany to introduce Ukrainian as a second foreign language in schools. The Ministry of Culture in the capital of Hessen, Wiesbaden, has announced the competition for future experts and teachers.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Welt

Details: Armin Schwarz, Minister of Culture of Hessen, called this decision a "clear sign of solidarity" with Ukraine, and Manfred Pentz, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hessen, considers it a contribution into preserving Ukrainian identity and culture.

"Because we do not want to deprive Ukrainian refugees of their roots and cut them off from their Motherland, so instead we build the bridge for their return to Ukraine," Pentz stressed.

Oleksii Makeiev, Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, called the new educational programme the "recognition of the Ukrainian language as an important European language".

Even if separate language programmes exist in schools of other federal lands of Germany for studying Ukrainian, it is not offered as a regular second foreign language.

Background:

Earlier it was reported that the children who left Ukraine for the EU as a result of Russian full-scale invasion face significant challenges while studying in schools of the states theyre currently in.

Before that, the Conservative People's Party of Estonia (EKRE) advocated for the children of Ukrainian war refugees, living in Estonia, to study in schools in Ukrainian.

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People scramble for humanitarian aid dropped by a plane in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

People scramble for humanitarian aid dropped by a plane in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Humanitarian aid dropped by a plane is seen over the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

People scramble for humanitarian aid dropped by a plane in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Humanitarian aid dropped by a plane is seen over the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Humanitarian aid dropped by a plane falls at a school in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Humanitarian aid dropped by a plane is seen over the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on May 23, 2024. The majority of the population in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian needs since the outbreak of the war. UN agencies have warned of dire consequences in the enclave, including famine and the spread of epidemics and diseases among the local population. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)
UN court to decide on demand for Israel to withdraw from Rafah

A Palestinian child collects his belongings from destroyed buildings after the Israeli army's airstrike at Nuseirat Refugee Camp. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is due to rule on Friday on South Africa's demand for further legal action against Israel to prevent genocide against the Palestinians.

In particular, the ruling concerns the possible ordering of an immediate withdrawal of the Israeli military from Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip.

South Africa submitted an urgent application to this effect to the ICJ on May 10.

The ruling will be announced by the president of the court, Lebanese lawyer Nawaf Salam, at a session in the Peace Palace in The Hague and is due to be broadcast via livestream.

South Africa justified its application to the ICJ by arguing that the court's previous measures in connection with the Gaza war were inadequate.

While the top UN court's rulings are binding, the court has no means of forcing compliance. It can, however, call on the UN Security Council to act.

Israel has rejected all the allegations, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu invoking the country's right to self-defence in response to the attack mounted by Hamas and other groups on October 7.

Palestinians transport the bodies of dead people at Al-Aqsa Hospital following the bombing of a house belonging to the Al-Shami family in the new camp in Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip. Saher Alghorra/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Palestinians climb on a truck to grab aid that was delivered into Gaza through a U.S.-built pier, as seen from central Gaza Strip

By Michelle Nichols

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Aid access to the Gaza Strip is extremely limited with less than 1,000 truckloads of humanitarian assistance entering the enclave since May 7, after Israel began a military operation in southern Gaza's Rafah area, the United Nations said on Friday.

The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that between May 7 and May 23, only 906 truckloads entered the enclave of 2.3 million people, where a famine looms amid the war between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas.

U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said about 800 of those truckloads were food supplies.

OCHA said 143 truckloads passed through the Israel-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing in Gaza's south, while in Gaza's north 62 passed through the Erez crossing and 604 via Erez West. It said 97 truckloads have come through a U.S.-built floating pier in central Gaza that began operating a week ago.

The Rafah crossing from Egypt into Gaza has been closed since Israel began stepping up its military operation in the area, creating a backlog of aid in Egypt where some of the food supplies have begun to rot.

Israel and the United States had called on Egypt, which is also concerned about the risk of Palestinians being displaced from Gaza, to reopen the border. Egypt had said it was closed due to the threat posed to aid work by Israel's military operation.

On Friday, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi agreed with U.S. President Joe Biden by phone to temporarily send humanitarian aid and fuel to the U.N. via the Kerem Shalom crossing, the Egyptian presidency said. Aid shipments could begin as soon as Friday evening, said Egyptian security sources, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The United Nations welcomes the move, Dujarric said. On Thursday he said: "There are a lot of doorways into Gaza. ... Whether by land or by sea, we don't control those doorways, but we want them all to be open."

OCHA said on Friday its figures do not include commercial trucks because the U.N. has been unable to observe private-sector deliveries through Kerem Shalom crossing due to insecurity.

"Additionally, just over 1 million litres of fuel have entered the Gaza Strip since the beginning of the military operation in Rafah," OCHA said in an update posted online.

"This represents an average of 29% of fuel allocations that would have been received under arrangements in place prior to 6 May, further affecting the functioning of bakeries, hospitals, water wells, and other critical infrastructure," it said.

The U.N. says at least 500 trucks a day of aid and commercial goods need to enter Gaza. In April, an average of 189 trucks entered a day - the highest since the war started in October.

Israel is retaliating against Hamas, which rules Gaza, over an Oct. 7 attack by the Palestinian militants in which more than 1,200 people were killed and over 250 taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies. Nearly 130 hostages are believed to remain captive in Gaza.

Israel launched an air, ground and sea assault on the blockaded Palestinian territory, killing more than 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
The United Nations headquarters building is pictured though a window with the UN logo in the foreground in the Manhattan borough of New York

By Michelle Nichols

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The United Nations Security Council on Friday called on all countries to respect and protect aid workers and U.N. personnel, and strongly condemned all violence against them and "the unlawful denial of humanitarian access."

The 15-member body adopted a Swiss-drafted resolution with 14 votes in favor, while Russia abstained.

The resolution, which did not identify any specific conflicts, was adopted after more than seven months of war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The United Nations says more than 250 humanitarian workers have been killed in the conflict.

Israel is under growing global pressure to allow more aid into the besieged enclave, where the U.N. says a famine looms.

"This resolution is not about one context in particular, it's for all humanitarian workers, all over the world," Switzerland's U.N. ambassador, Pascale Baeriswyl, told reporters.

Slovenia's deputy U.N. ambassador, Ondina Blokar, said that since 2003 at least 2,491 aid workers had been killed and more than 4,500 had been wounded or kidnapped around the world.

"These numbers continue growing with every month of ongoing armed conflict in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine and elsewhere. This is simply inexcusable and unjustifiable," Blokar told the council.

Most of the aid workers killed in Gaza worked for the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said investigations are needed into the deaths of all humanitarian workers in Gaza.

Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Robert Wood told the council that the killing of more than 250 humanitarian workers in the conflict between Israel and Hamas - "more than in any other conflict in the U.N.'s history" - was unacceptable.

(Editing by Timothy Heritage)
Good morning!  Heres what you need to know in North Carolina politics today.

House Republican leaders filed a bill to amend the state constitution to state that only citizens can vote.

Tightening our elections laws so that only U.S. citizens are voting in this country ensures that those making decisions about our countrys future have a vested interest in its well-being, House Rules Chair Rep. Destin Hall said in a statement. Voting is a fundamental right and privilege reserved for citizens of the United States.

It is already a crime for noncitizens to vote in federal elections, and state law requires residents to be citizens to register to vote.

Sen. Brad Overcash told The News & Observer last month that he would also sponsor a citizens-only voting amendment in the Senate, saying it would give voters an opportunity to make it crystal clear that only citizens can vote.

Constitutional amendments must first be approved by three-fifths of lawmakers in each chamber. Then, the amendment is placed on the ballot in the next election to be decided on by voters.

Some see the amendment as a way to drive conservatives to the polls, even if it is likely to have little tangible effect.

I cant help but look at something like that and see it as just a vehicle to drive base voters, Bob Phillips, executive director of Common Cause NC, told The N&O last month.

The Republican-controlled U.S. House passed similar legislation on Thursday, though it would only apply to voters in the District of Columbia. Three of North Carolinas Democrats in Congress, Reps. Wiley Nickel, Kathy Manning and Don Davis, voted in favor of the bill.

 Kyle Ingram

Heres more from our politics team and correspondent Stephanie Loder.

BERGER ON DEI POLICY

Senate leader Phil Berger told reporters on Thursday what he thinks of the UNC System Board of Governors decision Thursday to gut the university systems DEI requirements. (For more on that, see below.)

Berger said the DEI policy being repealed is,  like a lot of things that are pursued by progressives and the left  completely different from the average persons understanding of the need for diversity, for equity, for inclusion.

It basically is the advancement of a system that says that everything should be scored and determined based on oppressor versus oppressed. Its (a) very Marxist provision, Berger said after a Senate session.

And I do believe that the opportunities for all citizens of North Carolina, to get the benefit of a university education, is solid in North Carolina.

Berger called concerns about DEI across the country legitimate concerns.

 Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan

UNC SYSTEM BOARD TOSSES DEI

A policy approved Thursday by the UNC System Board of Governors repeals the university systems previous diversity, equity and inclusion requirements at North Carolinas public universities.

Joel Ford and Sonja Nichols voted against the new policy, which emphasizes equality and nondiscrimination instead of the systems previous DEI requirements.

The Board of Governors  which includes 15 white men among its total 23 members  falls short of representing the demographics of students.

Nichols, who is Black, said I just always want it to be a situation where all the voices are heard.

The new policy took effect immediately. University chancellors have until Sept. 1 to bring campuses into compliance with the new directives.

Get the full story from Korie Dean and Kyle Ingram here.

FALSELY ACCUSED NC VOTERS CANT SUE

Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby and four other Republican justices on the court ruled on Thursday that North Carolina voters falsely accused of fraud are unable to sue the GOP-affiliated group that brought the claims.

In the decision, the court said that people who report suspected voter fraud must have immunity in the form of absolute privilege.

The case followed allegations of voter fraud after the 2016 gubernatorial race between Gov. Roy Cooper and former Gov. Pat McCrory.

McCrory lost to Cooper in a close race, then formed a legal defense fund to pursue election protests targeting voters deemed allegedly ineligible.

Some of the falsely accused voters sued lawyers associated with the fund in 2017.

Get the full story from Kyle Ingram here.

Pork problem

Budget talks in the North Carolina General Assembly appear to be at a standoff, at least temporarily.

Senate leader Phil Berger said Thursday that he disagrees with the House position that he says is to spend both the states $1 billion revenue surplus and money from reserves.

The issue, Berger said, is about spending money from reserves on pork.

Berger, who spoke after the Senate session, said there was no progress made after his meeting this week with House Speaker Tim Moore.

Moore told reporters on Wednesday that he had hoped for a better outcome in meeting with Berger but said that the budget has not been derailed.

Get the full story from Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan here.

SENATE GOP TO NEGOTIATE ON MASKS

Its possible that Senate and House Republicans will be able to bridge concerns about mask legislation that stalled this week, Senate leader Phil Berger said Thursday.

But the Senate GOP wants to make sure the bill isnt watered down, he added.

The Senate passed a substitute to existing legislation last week that would:

Increase penalties for people who wear masks to commit crimes

Impose penalties for people participating in demonstrations that block traffic or emergency vehicles.

A controversial provision in the bill would repeal an exception to the longstanding ban on masking in public that lets people wear masks for health reasons.

Senate Republicans believe the health exception put in place during the pandemic isnt needed anymore, but top House Republicans have said they want to make clear that masking for medical reasons wont be penalized.

Get the full story from Avi Bajpai here.

NC LAW ENFORCEMENT LOOKS TO HIRE

Law enforcement leaders statewide say they need help to hire new officers and fill vacancies.

Police Chief Jacqui Boykin needs to fill four openings in the Zebulon Police Department that has a staff of 26.

Boykin isnt alone.

Apex Police Chief Jason Armstrong, Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead and Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood talked about their departments vacancy rates this week during a news conference with Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein.

Stein said one recruiting solution would be the passage of House Bill 768, which would allow retired officers to keep their retirement benefits if they go back to work.

Get the full story from Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan here.

Thats all for today. Check your inbox tomorrow for more #ncpol news.

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Under a new NH voting law, the right to a secret ballot is no longer guaranteed

On a Tuesday in March, Annabelle Rogers finished up chorus class inside Hopkinton High School. She then headed to the schools gymnasium, which was doubling that day as the official polling location for town elections.

Annabelle Rogers, 18, voted using an affidavit ballot. Her voting preferences later became public record.

Rogers had recently turned 18, making her newly eligible to vote. But she doesnt have a drivers license and didnt bring any other identification to school that day. Still, she was permitted to register and cast a ballot.

I got a sticker, which was pretty neat, said Rogers.

Every other person who voted that day in Hopkinton  and in elections across the state  was afforded a secret ballot, a bedrock of American democracy that ensures participants in elections are free from intimidation or coercion.

But because of a relatively new and little used state law, Rogers was handed a different ballot. Hers was numbered, and trackable. If she didnt return proof of eligibility within seven days, her vote wouldnt count  and the candidates she chose on her ballot that day could become publicly available information, without her knowledge or consent.

It's actually a little scary, she said. That's kind of a little nerve wracking.

Some people warned about this very consequence  the disclosure of individual voters' ballot choices  when the law was up for debate at the State House.

The Republican-backed law signed by Gov. Chris Sununu in 2022 launched the use of provisional ballots for first-time voters who dont have proper identification when they register at the polls.

Under the law, voters like Rogers are allowed to cast something called an affidavit ballot instead; they are then given a prepaid envelope and instructions on how to mail in proof of their identity.

When Rogers failed to mail in proof of her identification, Hopkinton voting officials subtracted her votes from final tallies. This document is available to the public, inside of Hopkinton Town Hall.

When Rogers failed to return the paperwork on time, the New Hampshire Secretary of States office instructed voting officials in Hopkinton to erase her votes from final tallies  as though shed never shown up at the polls in the first place.

Though the Secretary of States office doesnt release the names of voters who use affidavit ballots, it does publicly disclose the towns and cities where they are used. A review of the voting rolls in Hopkinton revealed that only one person registered at the polls without an identification on Town Meeting Day this March: Annabelle Rogers. The revised voting totals released more than a week after the election provided the last link in the chain: who Rogers voted for, before her votes were erased.

I get why they had to erase the vote," she said. "But they should probably do it in a way that doesn't make that public."

New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan has previously defended the law, saying it implemented reasonable controls for those who seek to vote without an ID, but he declined an interview request for this story. He also didnt respond to written questions, including whether he believes affidavit ballot voters have the same right to a secret ballot as all other voters.

NH Secretary of State David Scanlan, right, in 2022. Scanlan defended the process laid out in Senate Bill 418, which created the affidavit ballot system.

Rogers said she was told at the polls that her vote would be erased if she didnt mail her paperwork on time. But she was unaware, until NHPR contacted her, that her voting preferences could become publicly available.

It's a little detective-y, but you could see how someone could do it pretty easily if they really wanted to, she said.

A fear for voting officials, realized

Republicans passed the affidavit ballot law citing the need to increase public trust in the election process. Previously, anyone who registered for the first time in New Hampshire without showing identification could sign an affidavit swearing to their eligibility to vote. While they could be subsequently investigated for possible voter fraud, their ballots were not trackable, which meant their votes could not be erased from final tallies if fraud was detected.

Since the law went into effect in 2023, five affidavit ballots have been cast in New Hampshire: one each in Hopkinton, Hooksett and Derry, and two in Manchester. On just two occasions  this March in Hopkinton, and last November in Manchester  the voter failed to mail in a copy of their required identification, resulting in an erased vote.

NHPR was able to confirm the identity of the Manchester voter whose ballot was voided, but they didnt want to be interviewed and requested anonymity, so we are not naming them in this story. Like Rogers, they had recently turned 18 years old.

In Hopkinton, local voting officials said they instructed Rogers to return the paperwork, explaining that her votes would otherwise be erased. Rogers confirmed she understood that step in the process. However, she said her grandparents, with whom she lives, were uncomfortable with her mailing sensitive documents and instead said she should register at the town offices another time.

They were like, We don't know if we like that, Rogers said. They can be very cautious about that kind of thing.

She decided to forgo mailing in the paperwork, in part, because the stakes of the towns elections this spring seemed relatively minor: The only contested race was for supervisor of the checklist. Positions like library and cemetery trustee were unopposed.

This wasn't a big deal because it was a pretty lax election, Rogers said. There wasn't much being voted for.

But local election officials and voting rights advocates werent as quick to shrug off what happened to Rogers under the new law.

We should all agree that every voter in New Hampshire should have the right to a secret ballot, said Sara Persechino, Hopkinton's town moderator. I think that's a real tenet of our democracy in our country.

Liz Tentarelli, president of the nonpartisan League of Women Voters New Hampshire, said her group warned that this very scenario  that other people could figure out who someone voted for  could be a possibility when the law was up for debate.

These are your neighbors. These are the people in your own community who are now invading a private ritual, she said, adding, I think that's just terrible."

"I voted" stickers line a ballot counting machine in Keene.

Almost immediately after Sununu signed the new law, the ACLU of New Hampshire and another coalition of progressive voting rights groups challenged it in court  citing concerns about its effects on voter privacy. Those cases were dismissed on procedural grounds, in part because those suing couldnt point to anyone whod been directly affected, and are now before the state Supreme Court on appeal.

Henry Klementowicz, an attorney with the ACLU, said the fact that some voters preferences can become public through the use of affidavit ballots justifies concerns that the system intrudes on an important part of American democracythe right to a secret ballot.

We opposed SB 418 in the legislature for this very reason," he added.

Another court case filed by the Democratic National Committee is still active, but a superior court judge denied an injunction request, meaning the law remains on the books and in effect.

The New Hampshire Attorney Generals office, which is defending the constitutionality of the law, has argued in court filings that the affidavit voting process creates a low risk of erroneous deprivation of a persons right to vote.

Attorneys for the state told the court that there are clearly sufficient procedural safeguards to ensure that a qualified voter who wishes to register to vote and vote may vote in an election.

Cleared of wrongdoing, but vote erased

At the State House this year, Republicans are backing a new proposal that would further restrict voting access for those without proof of eligibility at the polls.

Under current law, voters who dont have the right documents on Election Day can sign affidavits attesting that theyre a U.S. citizen and they live where theyre trying to vote. Under the new bill, which has cleared the New Hampshire House and is awaiting Senate action, voters would be required to show a passport, birth certificate or naturalization papers in order to register  no exceptions.

If the bill becomes law, it would effectively end the new affidavit ballot process, as well.

In the meantime, every voter who lacks identification at the polls and fails to provide proof of eligibility within seven days is automatically referred to the New Hampshire Attorney Generals office for investigation into whether they violated any election laws.

According to a memo provided by that office to NHPR, a state investigator wasnt able to make contact with the Manchester voter who used an affidavit ballot in the 2023 city elections last fall. But they confirmed his age and identity by obtaining records from the Manchester School District.

This office concludes there is no evidence suggesting that [name redacted] was not qualified to vote at the time of the November 7, 2023 Manchester city election, the memo reads. Therefore, this matter is closed.

That investigation may be over, but that voter, who was deemed qualified to cast a ballot, still saw his vote permanently erased from the election results. In a quirk of the voter registration process, that Manchester voter and Rogers, in Hopkinton, are now legally registered to vote in future elections.

Rogers said the heightened tension over American elections in recent years makes a secret ballot even more vital.

It's kind of very important for people to have that privacy because you don't want people doing extreme things because of politics, she said.

These articles are being shared by partners in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information visit collaborativenh.org.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Under new NH voting law, right to a secret ballot is not guaranteed
The University of Minnesota's College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) today announced it has been awarded a $1,155,000 grant from the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) to develop and offer an Indigenous Education for All online course free to the public.

The grant emerged from the SMSCs Understand Native Minnesota campaign to improve the Native American narrative in the state. When SMSC reached out to CEHD to support its efforts, the College was grateful and quick to be of service. CEHDs work on this project aligns with the recommendations of the 2023 Towards Recognition and University-Tribal Healing (TRUTH) report, which advised steps for the University of Minnesota community to be in better relations with Indigenous peoples.

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We are honored to partner with Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community to increase Minnesotas understanding of Native life and practices across the region, said CEHD Dean Michael Rodriguez. This project is supported by CEHDs mission to contribute to a just and sustainable future through engagement with local and global communities to enhance human learning and development across the lifespan.

This project was inspired by the success of the University of Albertas highly regarded Indigenous Canada course. This new course aims to increase awareness and knowledge of Tribal Nations in Minnesota, their history and traditions, as well as contemporary Tribal life and governance. The primary target audiences are K-12 educators, school administrators, high school students, and student families.

Our tribes goal is to improve the narrative taught in classrooms about Native peoples, which is too often incomplete or inaccurate, SMSC Chairman Cole Miller said. We are glad to provide this grant to the University of Minnesota to develop this online course to offer all Minnesotans  and students especially  a reliable, accurate introduction to the history, cultures and modern experiences of Native Americans here in Minnesota.

Cassie Scharber, assistant dean of online and professional education and associate professor of learning technologies, and George Veletsianos, professor of learning technologies, are leading the development of the online course. They will be guided and supported by a community advisory council and a curriculum committee that consists of Indigenous education experts and leaders, knowledge keepers and content experts, curriculum designers, learning technologists, and others.

The free online course is expected to launch by mid-2025.

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
University Of North Carolina Board Of Governors Votes To Repeal DEI Policy, Likely Resulting In Removal Of Related Roles Across Its 17 Public Universities

A diversity policy is being repealed in North Carolinas public university system.

As AFROTECH previously reported, the University of North Carolina (UNC) System Board of Governors University Governance Committee had approved a policy that repeals the university systems existing policy and regulation on diversity and inclusion.

This would impact all 17 public universities in the state and lead to the elimination of diversity programs and likely end DEI job roles, although the policy allows universities to implement programming or services designed to have a positive effect on the academic performance, retention, or graduation of students from different backgrounds, The News & Observer reports.

When a position or office is terminated or changed, chancellors will be required to explain to UNC System President Peter Hans how reductions in force and spending were caused by the cuts and how the savings achieved could be redirected to initiatives related to student success and well-being.

There is broad and deep commitment to that goal, and support for the UNC Systems longstanding efforts to reflect the diversity of North Carolina, Hans told the outlet. We have well-established laws and policies that prohibit discrimination, protect equal opportunity, and require a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. We will uphold those responsibilities.

Meanwhile, as previously reported, students remained greatly concerned, including Alexander Denza, an organizer of the Southern Student Action Coalition and the UNC-Chapel Hill group TransparUNCy.

These changes that theyre making right now are going to have a chilling effect on speech and also [on] discourse in our communities, Denza said, per The News & Observer. He also noted that the campus and overall UNC System had recently shared intentions to promote open discourse.

Samuel Scarborough, a UNC student who is also a member of the group, commented, Knowing that institutionally, we dont have as much power as we wish we had, we want to at least be present in the room as these decisions are happening and have a chance to speak. We were not given this opportunity.

UNC System spokesperson Andy Wallace had previously shared that the public had not been able to attend the meeting at the time of the vote as there was a lack of available seats and the voting had occurred so quickly  it took less than five minutes.

In the most recent announcement, it appears the 24-member University of North Carolina System Board of Governors officially added the repeal to its agenda and approved a vote to revoke the five-year DEI policy, with two members voting against the action, according to The Telegraph. Changes will go into effect starting the next school year.

Despite the repeal, the outlet notes the policy will not alter classroom instruction, university research, student organizations, and cultural centers. However, DEI staff will likely be required to change their titles and responsibilities to fulfill policy guidelines, with further instructions set to be released in the summer.

Funding that was designated for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices will now be allocated towards student success initiatives.

Theres no reason why we cant, as university trustees, signal that this is the direction the university needs to take. I feel good about it, said Dave Boliek, the boards budget chair.
ADELAIDE, Australia, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Australian universities have expressed hope to expand cooperation with Chinese universities and provide better support and services for Chinese international students and scholars.

Flinders University's Deputy Vice-Chancellor Raymond Chan made the statement on Wednesday while introducing the ongoing cooperation and exchanges between Flinders University and its Chinese counterparts.

During his visit to Flinders University, the Chinese Consul General in Adelaide Li Dong encouraged the university to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation with Chinese universities and institutions in scientific research and joint education programs, giving full play to the disciplinary advantages of Flinders University.

The Chinese Consulate General in Adelaide has always been committed to deepening exchanges and cooperation on education between China and South Australia, Li said.

Li also discussed educational cooperation with the University of Adelaide in April.

Peter Hj AC, vice-chancellor and president of the University of Adelaide, introduced the university's research cooperation and joint education programs with Chinese universities, saying that more Chinese students are welcome to study at the university. 
Upstart Chinese planemaker Comac is in talks with Saudi Arabia as it seeks to disrupt the Boeing-Airbus duopoly

Upstart Chinese planemaker Comac is in talks with Saudi Arabia as it seeks to disrupt the Boeing-Airbus duopoly

Saudi Arabia and the Chinese planemaker Comac have been in discussions, Reuters reported.

Comac aims to compete with Airbus and Boeing with its C919 narrowbody plane.

Boeing's recent struggles could create more international opportunities for Comac.

Saudi officials are talking to China's planemaker Comac as the latter seeks to expand, Reuters reported.

The Comac C919 is a narrowbody plane that aims to compete with Airbus' A320neo and Boeing's 737 Max. It's China's first homegrown passenger jet, but so far, orders have only come from China and Southeast Asia.

Now, it looks like China is eyeing Saudi Arabia as the place to expand its market share and start competing with the two big Western planemakers.

According to Reuters, Dongfeng He, the chairman of Comac, visited Saudi Arabia for the first time this week. A Saudi delegation visited Comac's Shanghai facilities in February.

"Comac envisions enhancing global connectivity and diversity by contributing to Saudi Arabia's aviation transportation development," He told an aviation conference in Riyadh on Tuesday, per Reuters.

It comes after Saudi national carrier Saudia announced on Monday the biggest plane order in the kingdom's history. 105 Airbus jets, a mix of A320neo and A321neo models, will be distributed between the flag carrier and its subsidiary flyadeal.

The airline is owned by the Saudi government, and Saudia's chairman is also the transport minister. As part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy, aviation has been a focus to help promote tourism in the kingdom.

The Saudia deal appeared as a snub to Boeing, given that the US planemaker had previously won a big order from Riyadh Air  another state-owned airline set to launch in 2025.

Shortly before last November's Dubai Air Show, Bloomberg reported that Boeing was set to win another order from Riyadh Air for its narrowbody jets. However, that never materialized. CEO Tony Douglas blamed negative media coverage of delivery delays and technical problems.

With Boeing in crisis mode since January's Alaska Airlines blowout, carriers could be willing to look elsewhere. Plus, the backlog for Airbus commercial aircraft reached 8,626 at the end of March, leaving little room for more customers.

Earlier this month, the Brazilian planemaker Embraer denied The Wall Street Journal's report that it was working on a new narrowbody jet  capitalizing on Boeing's woes.

Read the original article on Business Insider
US announces new military package for Ukraine, including HIMARS rockets, artillery shells

The United States announced a new military package on May 24 worth $275 million, the U.S. Defense Department reported.

This is the fourth installment of military aid since the U.S. passed the long-awaited $61 billion foreign defense bill last month.

The new package includes HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) ammunition, 155 mm and 105 mm high-demand artillery rounds, 60mm mortar rounds, and tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missiles.

Additional items include Javelin and AT-4 anti-tank systems, precision aerial munitions, small arms and ammunition for those weapons, demolition munitions, anti-armor mines, and tactical vehicles to recover equipment.

The list also includes helmets, body armor, chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear protective equipment, spare parts, maintenance, and other ancillary equipment.

"The United States will continue to work together with some 50 Allies and partners to ensure Ukraine's brave defenders receive the critical capabilities needed to fight Russian aggression," the statement read.

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Ukraine Weekly By Olga Rudenko

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News of further U.S. military aid comes a few days after U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with defense officials from more than 50 countries at the 22nd Ramstein-format summit of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG).

During the meeting, Austin emphasized the new Russian offensive in Kharkiv Oblast has added to the urgency of the West's support for Ukraine.

Russia launched a new offensive with 30,000 troops on May 10, targeting Kharkiv Oblast, which is situated at the border with Russia in northeastern Ukraine.

Moscow's forces had managed to advance as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) in the region but had been halted by the first line of defense, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Over the winter months, Ukraine suffered a critical shortage of artillery shells, in large part due to delays in U.S. military aid. Russia has taken advantage of this, taking the city of Avdiivka in February.

Read also: Opinion: Will the renewed US support for Ukraine be enough?

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The United States has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine worth US$275 million.

Source: European Pravda, citing Pentagon's press service

Details: This is the fifth security assistance package since the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) programme for Ukraine and allies was passed in Congress and signed by President Joe Biden.

To quote the Pentagon, the new US military aid package includes:

Ammunition for HIMARS;

155mm and 105mm artillery rounds;

60mm mortar rounds;

Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) missiles;

Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor systems;

Precision aerial munitions;

Small arms and additional rounds of small arms ammunition and grenades;

Demolitions munitions;

Anti-armor mines;

Tactical vehicles to recover equipment;

Helmets, body armour, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear protective equipment; and

Spare parts, maintenance, and other ancillary equipment.

Background:

Earlier, the media released information that the US is preparing a new military assistance package worth US$275 million.

Washington announced the transfer of US$6 billion under Ukraine's Security Assistance Initiative, which would be used to pay for long-term contracts with the US defence sector.

Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, the US has contributed approximately US$51 billion in military aid to Kyiv.

Earlier, the US had expressed hope that new US military aid unblocked by Congress would over time help the Armed Forces of Ukraine regain the initiative on the battlefield, but a large-scale Ukrainian offensive is unlikely in the near future.

However, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said in the Senate that it is too early to tell whether the supplemental funding provided to Ukraine will have an effect on the battlefield, as this will take time.

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Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, third left, stands before greeting Kenya's President William Ruto, not pictured, at the Pentagon in Washington, Friday, May 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is expected to meet with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun, at a major defense conference in Singapore next week, the Pentagon announced Friday.

It will be the first meeting between the two defense leaders following a phone call in April. It comes as the U.S. and China have gradually worked to warm relations, which had been largely frozen since a controversial visit to Taiwan by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2022 resulted in China temporarily stopping most military-to-military communications.

The announcement came shortly before the Pentagon said Austin would undergo a medical procedure at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday evening and transfer power temporarily to his deputy. Austin is dealing with bladder issues that arose in December following his treatment for prostate cancer.

Later Friday, the Pentagon said the procedure was successful and Austin had resumed duty and returned home. No changes in his official schedule are anticipated at this time, to include his participation in scheduled Memorial Day events, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said.

Austin and Dong, China's minister of national defense, are expected to meet during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore next week, an annual meeting of defense ministers and government officials from more than 50 countries.

The meeting also comes, however, as China has engaged in aggressive military drills around Taiwan, resulting in Taiwan scrambling jets and putting missile, naval and land units on alert Thursday.

China launched the exercises after the islands new president, Lai Ching-te, was inaugurated and delivered a speech asking Beijing to cease its intimidation against the island but face the reality of its existence. Beijing rejected his remarks as advocating for separatism and launched the military drills.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and vows to seize it by force if necessary to achieve unification. The U.S. is obligated under federal law to ensure the island can defend itself.

In the wake of those exercises, the U.S. has cautioned China not to use Taiwan's political transition as a pretext or excuse for provocative or coercive measures, a defense official said. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide details that had not been made public.

The two governments began to engage each other more after President Biden hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping in November in California and stressed the need to keep communications open.

Dong is a former naval commander who was appointed in late December after his predecessor, Li Shangfu, was removed from office. Dong spoke with Austin by phone in April over issues including the war in Ukraine, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, Taiwan and North Korea.

Austin last met a Chinese defense minister in November 2022, when he and Wei Fenghe, then Chinas defense minister, were in Cambodia for a regional defense minister meeting.

No U.S. defense secretary has visited China since Jim Mattis visited in 2018.
US, Egypt agree to allow aid into Gaza through Kerem Shalom

People watch as U.S. military carries out its first aid drop over Gaza, amid the ongoing the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Gaza City

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed Egypt's commitment on Friday to allow UN-provided humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza on a temporary basis through the Kerem Shalom crossing, the White House said.

Biden also told Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi in a call that he supported efforts to reopen the southern Rafah crossing under terms acceptable to both Egypt and Israel and that the U.S. would send a senior team to Cairo next week for talks, according to a White House statement.

"President Biden welcomed the commitment from President al-Sisi to permit the flow of UN-provided humanitarian assistance from Egypt through the Karem Shalom crossing on a provisional basis for onward distribution throughout Gaza. This will help save lives," it said.

Sisi agreed to send the aid temporarily until legal mechanisms are in place to reopen the Rafah border crossing from the Palestinian side, the Egyptian presidency said.

Some of the food supplies waiting to enter the Gaza Strip from Egypt have begun to rot as the Rafah border crossing remains shut to aid deliveries for a third week and people inside the Palestinian enclave face worsening hunger.

Rafah was a main entry point for humanitarian relief and some commercial supplies before Israel stepped up its military offensive on the Gazan side of the border on May 6 and took control of the crossing from the Palestinian side.

(Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Caitlin Webber)
A view shows kettles at an insulin production line in Novo Nordisk's plant in Kalundborg

By Sriparna Roy and Mariam Sunny

(Reuters) -Advisers to the U.S. health regulator on Friday voted against the use of Novo Nordisk's weekly insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes due to risks of low blood sugar.

The Food and Drug Administration's panel of independent experts voted 7-to-4, saying the weekly insulin icodec's benefits do not outweigh the risks

Novo is aiming to be the first to hit the market with a weekly insulin product, offering an alternative for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who now depend on multiple daily injections.

"I'm concerned that approving (insulin) icodec for use at this point with inadequate data might be a disincentive for further trials, which I think are needed in order to use it safely in type one diabetics," said Cecilia Low Wang, the panel chairperson.

The comments come after the FDA's staff on Wednesday flagged the risk of low blood sugar in type 1 diabetes patients, who are more insulin-dependent, and the lack of clinical data to support Novo's proposed methods for mitigating the risks associated with hypoglycemia, a condition in which blood sugar levels drop below the standard range.

Novo said it will continue to work closely with the FDA to identify the next steps needed to bring the treatment to market.

The increase of hypoglycemic events for type 1 diabetics, could prove a barrier for these patients, Derren Nathan, analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said ahead of the panel meeting.

Barclays analyst Emily Field said it was plausible for the FDA to not recommend approval in type 1 patients, but that Novo could still seek approval for type 2 patients, which is a larger market.

While the FDA usually follows the recommendations of its expert panel, it is not obligated to do so.

The weekly basal injection, under the brand name Awiqli, was approved earlier this week for use in the European Union, the Danish drugmaker said on Friday.

Basal insulin helps regulate blood glucose levels throughout the day compared to bolus insulin which manages blood glucose rise after meals.

Rival Eli Lilly is also developing its own once-weekly insulin injection, efsitora.

(Reporting by Sriparna Roy and Mariam Sunny in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid and Shailesh Kuber)
White House could decide on FDIC chair as soon as next week, source says

FILE PHOTO: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC) logo is seen at the FDIC headquarters in Washington

By Douglas Gillison, Andrea Shalal and Chris Prentice

(Reuters) -The White House could decide on a nominee to replace the chair of the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as early as next week, two people with knowledge of the matter said on Friday as further evidence of agency lapses emerged.

FDIC Chair Martin Gruenberg this week said he would step down once a successor is confirmed by the Senate, succumbing to pressure from lawmakers who said the agency needed fresh leadership after an independent investigation found widespread sexual harassment and other misconduct at the agency.

On Friday, the FDIC's internal watchdog also said it was not promptly informed of misconduct allegations involving senior FDIC officials, in a development that could fuel Republican calls for Democratic President Joe Biden to fire Gruenberg.

The White House is under pressure to quickly fill the role and preserve Biden's financial regulation agenda, including major bank capital hikes, just six months ahead of the U.S. presidential election.

The FDIC insures bank deposits and helps safeguard the stability of the banking system.

A decision on a nominee is expected within weeks and could come as early as next week, a senior administration official said on Friday. The White House has already been in touch with Senator Sherrod Brown, who chairs the Senate Banking Committee which oversees the FDIC, about scheduling a swift confirmation hearing, another White House official said.

Brown's office did not respond to a request for comment.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Reuters on Friday she believed Gruenberg's successor needed to be free of any prior association with the FDIC's workplace culture and to take decisive steps to change the system.

"It needs somebody who's committed to cleaning up the problem," she said. "It needs somebody who can come in from the outside, is credible in terms of their own past actions and stance with regard to issues of this type."

The White House is seeking someone outside the agency, Reuters reported on Tuesday, and a candidate with the strong managerial credentials needed to fix the agency's cultural problems, an administration official said on Thursday.

Kristin Johnson, a Democratic member of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), is one of the candidates, according two people with knowledge of the matter. Bloomberg first reported the news on Thursday.

One of the sources also said an announcement could come next week.

The CFTC's other Democrat, Christy Goldsmith Romero, Nellie Liang, a top Treasury official, Adrienne Harris, superintendent of New York's Department of Financial Services, and Sandra Thompson, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, are also favored among Democrats, according to several other sources.

Representatives for the five declined or have not responded to requests for comment.

Inspector General Jennifer Fain said in a memo addressed to Gruenberg that was dated Thursday and published Friday that the watchdog had "learned of several allegations of misconduct regarding senior FDIC officials that were not reported ... in a timely manner."

Her office is reviewing the allegations and investigating whether anything else had not been reported, the memo said.

In response to a request for comment, the FDIC shared a message it had sent to the OIG's office this week in which it said the agency looked forward "to coordinating and developing a process for notifying the OIG promptly" of alleged misconduct by senior FDIC officials.

While the independent review did not find Gruenberg directly responsible for the agency's broad cultural issues, he apologized for misconduct under his leadership and for his own transgressions.

The Republican-led House Financial Services Committee on Thursday announced it had asked Gruenberg and other top officials to testify on June 12 about the independent review's findings.

Should Gruenberg step down before a replacement can be appointed, the FDIC's board of directors would fall into a 2-2 partisan deadlock, hamstringing the Biden administration's bank regulation agenda.

(Additional reporting by David Lawder in Stresa, Italy; Editing by Michelle Price, Franklin Paul, Matthew Lewis, Chizu Nomiyama and Rod Nickel)
The U.S. State Department on May 23 denounced Georgia's "foreign agents" law and imposed visa restrictions on those responsible for "undermining democracy" in the country and their family members.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken also said he is launching a review of U.S.-Georgian relations and voiced hope that Georgia's leaders will reconsider the bill.

Concerns about Georgia's democracy have reached a fever pitch after the ruling Georgian Dream party passed the foreign agents law, which requires organizations that receive foreign funding to be labeled as "foreign agents" and mirrors repressive Russian legislation used to crack down on Kremlin regime critics.

The controversial legislation sparked large-scale protests in the country, which escalated to violent incidents as police officers reportedly tried to quell the demonstrations with water cannons and rubber bullets.

Blinken said the law would "stifle the exercise of freedoms of association and expression, stigmatize organizations that serve the citizens of Georgia, and impede independent media organizations" and accused Tbilisi of a "campaign of intimidation and the use of violence to suppress peaceful dissent."

"In response to these actions, the Department of State is implementing a new visa restriction policy for Georgia that will apply to individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia, as well as their family members," the statement read, specifying that this includes "individuals responsible for suppressing civil society and freedom of peaceful assembly."

The Georgian parliament passed the law in its final reading on May 14, but pro-Western President Salome Zourabichvili vetoed it a few days later. Georgian Dream has enough votes in the parliament to override the veto and has already announced it will do so.

The legislation prompted criticism both from the U.S. and the EU.

Washington is considering a package of military, trade, and visa liberalization incentives for Georgia if it reverses the trend of democratic backsliding and abandons the controversial law, Politico reported on May 20, citing a draft bill to be introduced in Congress in the coming days.

Several EU countries are reportedly pushing for sanctions against Georgia over the bill, including suspension of the visa-free travel regime. Some European Parliament members also called to suspend Georgia's EU candidacy in response.

Read also: Explainer: Whats behind ongoing protests in Georgia?

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Officials of northwest China's Qinghai Province attend a press briefing on green, high-quality development in Beijing, capital of China, May 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Pan Xu)

BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Northwest China's Qinghai Province on Friday pledged more efforts to promote ecological protection and further leverage its unique advantages to promote high-quality development.

Wu Xiaojun, governor of Qinghai, told a press briefing in Beijing that the province has made concerted efforts to build a green and low-carbon modern industrial system. In 2023, Qinghai's gross domestic product increased by 5.3 percent, and its per capita disposable income grew by 5.9 percent.

Qinghai has been developing a clean energy industry, witnessing increasing development vitality and momentum. Last year, the installed capacity of clean energy in the province exceeded 51 million kilowatts, accounting for 93 percent of the total installed capacity. This proportion ranked first in China.

Dubbed "the water tower of China," Qinghai is home to the Sanjiangyuan area, from which the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers originate. Every year, 60 billion to 90 billion cubic meters of water is transported downstream, Wu said.

According to Wu, Qinghai is the only province in China with three national parks under construction at the same time. Sanjiangyuan National Park, covering a total area of 190,700 square km, is the largest national park in China.

With an improving ecological environment, the number of Tibetan antelopes has rebounded from less than 20,000 in the last century to more than 70,000 today. The number of monitored snow leopards has now exceeded 1,200.

The province has also been exploring its eco-tourism resources, and aims to build an international eco-tourism destination. It will continue to step up ecological protection efforts to protect the environment, always putting the protection of lucid waters and lush mountains first, said Liu Tao, vice governor of Qinghai. 
US issues severe Do not travel warning for this Caribbean country

A well known nation is under extreme travel warnings from America.

Dont even go there.

The United States has renewed its Do not travel warning for Venezuela, urging American travelers to understand that their government has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens who run into trouble.

Officials blamed the notice  the most severe the Department of State can issue  on civil unrest, a slide towards dictatorship, ongoing threats of terrorism, and anti-American bias.

Venezuela is under the most severe travel warning the U.S. Department of State can issue. AFP via Getty Images

Violent crimes, such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, are common in Venezuela, the agency added.

The threat is so dire that the US government advises travelers who insist on going to first establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones.

If you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax), officials explained.

The Department has determined there is a high risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Venezuela. Security forces have detained U.S. citizens for up to five years, the agency added, warning that the American government is hardly notified or allowed access to incarcerated nationals.

The political climate in Venezuela is a major factor, according to reports. AFP via Getty Images

Hundreds of thousands of Americans typically traveled to Venezuela annually.

The country is known for its miles of largely undeveloped Caribbean coastline and pristine adjacent islands.

Those numbers began to drop off, eventually going into sharp decline, when Nicolas Maduro rose to power following the death of the iron-fisted Hugo Chavez in 2013.

Of the most recent election, the State Department said Maduro illegally claimed the presidency of Venezuela, despite global condemnation of a rigged election and is moving the country towards dictatorship.

Reminiscent of Chavez, Maduro is strengthening alliances with outside nations including Cuba, Russia, Iran, and China, that repress the Venezuelan people further.

The new warning, which was originally issued in 2019 when the US began pulling personnel from Venezuela, was reissued on May 13.

It comes ahead of a July election that the fate of the South American nation depends on.

Political rallies and demonstrations occur, often with little notice. Anti-Maduro demonstrations have elicited a strong police and security force response, the department added, including the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against participants.

Americans are especially at risk in big cities like Caracas. seventov  stock.adobe.com

These events occasionally devolve into looting and vandalism, they said.

Additionally, Venezuela is enduring a crisis of shortages that include, water, gasoline, electricity, and medicine.

Worse, terror groups from neighboring Colombia are highly active in the border regions.
By David Shepardson

(Reuters) - A Louisiana Democratic political consultant was indicted over a fake robocall imitating U.S. President Joe Biden seeking to dissuade people from voting for him in New Hampshire's Democratic primary election, the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office said on Thursday.

Steven Kramer, 54, faces 13 charges of felony voter suppression and 13 misdemeanor impersonation of a candidate charges after thousands of New Hampshire residents received a robocall message asking them not to vote until November. Kramer faces a series of initial court appearances starting on June 14 in Merrimack Superior Court.

A lawyer for Kramer could not immediately be identified. Kramer did not respond to a request seeking comment.

Kramer told CBS and NBC in February he had paid $500 to have the calls sent to voters to call attention to the issue, after the calls were discovered in January. He had worked for Biden's primary challenger, Representative Dean Phillips, who denounced the calls

Separately, the Federal Communications Commission on Thursday proposed to fine Kramer $6 million over the robocalls it said were using an AI-generated deepfake audio recording of Bidens cloned voice, saying its rules prohibit transmission of inaccurate caller ID information.

"When a caller sounds like a politician you know, a celebrity you like, or a family member who is familiar, any one of us could be tricked into believing something that is not true with calls using AI technology," FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said.

The FCC also proposed to fine Lingo Telecom $2 million for allegedly transmitting the robocalls.

There is growing concern in Washington that AI-generated content could mislead voters in the November presidential and congressional elections. Some senators want to pass legislation before November that would address AI threats to election integrity.

"New Hampshire remains committed to ensuring that our elections remain free from unlawful interference and our investigation into this matter remains ongoing," Attorney General John Formella, a Republican, said.

Formella hopes the state and federal actions "send a strong deterrent signal to anyone who might consider interfering with elections, whether through the use of artificial intelligence or otherwise."

A Biden campaign spokesperson said the campaign "has assembled an interdepartmental team to prepare for the potential effects of AI this election, including the threat of malicious deep fakes." The team has been in place since September "and has a wide variety of tools at its disposal to address issues."

On Wednesday, Rosenworcel proposed requiring disclosure of content generated by artificial intelligence (AI) in political ads on radio and TV for both candidate and issue advertisements, but not to prohibit any AI-generated content.

The FCC said the use of AI is expected to play a substantial role in 2024 political ads. The FCC singled out the potential for misleading "deep fakes" which are "altered images, videos, or audio recordings that depict people doing or saying things that did not actually do or say, or events that did not actually occur."

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Josie Kao)
US submarine that sank the most Japanese warships in WW2 found off Philippines

The resting place of the submarine is being treated as a war grave - Lost 52 Project/Us Navy

A US Navy submarine that sank more Japanese warships during the Second World War than any other has been found at the bottom of the South China Sea.

The USS Harder went down with its 79 US sailors in 1944 off the coast of the Philippine island of Luzon.

The US Navys History and Heritage Command (NHHC) said it had been discovered 3,000ft under the sea, and should be treated as a war grave.

The submarine is one of the most famous in US history, having sunk more Japanese battleships than any other during the war.

The submarine is one of the most famous in US history

In the final weeks of its patrols, it sank three Japanese destroyers and damaged two more over four days, significantly contributing to the countrys defeat at sea, the NHHC said.

It was finally sunk on August 29 1944 by a Japanese depth charge while assisting the US Navy with an attempt to take the Philippines from the Japanese Imperial Navy.

Samuel J. Cox, the retired US Navy admiral who runs the NHHC, said: Harder was lost in the course of victory. We must not forget that victory has a price, as does freedom.

The USS Harder was found 3,000ft under the sea

Some officers on the submarine have been awarded the Medal of Honour

Commander Sam Dealey, the most senior officer on the submarine, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honour, the USs highest military accolade, after it sank.

The submarines resting place was confirmed by data from the Lost 52 Project  an effort to find the wreckages of 52 US submarines that were destroyed during the war.

Mr Cox said: We are grateful that Lost 52 has given us the opportunity to once again honour the valour of the crew of the Hit em Harder submarine.

The NHHC said the site was the final resting place of sailors that gave their life in defence of the nation and should now be treated as a war grave.

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As the nation prepares to observe Memorial Day this year, a new survey sponsored by USAA reveals the lack of understanding about the true meaning of Memorial Day, with many observing the holiday in ways that dont align with the days true purpose. USAA seeks to help the nation increase its understanding of the holiday while also providing an opportunity to honor and remember Americas military men and women who lost their lives in service to their country with its Poppy Wall of Honor. According to the USAA survey, conducted by Endeavor Analytics and YouGov, only 46% of U.S. adults properly responded that the primary reason for observing Memorial Day is to honor military service members who lost their lives in military conflict. Further, nearly half of respondents (45%) believe an appropriate way to observe Memorial Day is to wish a veteran a Happy Memorial Day and/or thank them for their service. While the intentions are well-meaning, the survey results indicate that we all can benefit from additional education on this sacred holiday. A visitor pauses and reflects on the true meaning of Memorial Day at the USAA Poppy Wall of Honor  a temporary Memorial Day exhibit created by USAA consisting of more than 645,000 poppy flowers, with each flower honoring a fallen military service member since World War I on Friday, May 26, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Eric Kayne/AP Images for USAA) Eric Kayne To help educate, the USAA Poppy Wall of Honor  a temporary installation honoring the more than 600,000 American service members who gave their lives in service to our nation since World War I  will return to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. for Memorial Day weekend. Since its first appearance publicly on the National Mall in 2018, more than 50,000 visitors have visited the USAA Poppy Wall of Honor, paying their respects to fallen service members and learning more about the holiday. As Americans enjoy their freedoms this holiday weekend surrounded by friends and family, it is important to remember the service members who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend those freedoms, which is the true meaning of Memorial Day, said Army Maj. Gen. (Ret) John Richardson, Senior Vice President, Head of Military Affairs at USAA. The USAA Poppy Wall of Honor is a unifying symbol for all Americans, reminding us of the humbling reality that our freedom isnt free. Through the Wall, we seek to educate and inspire all Americans to take time this Memorial Day weekend to pause, honor and remember each of our fallen service members, and stand by their families who carry the weight of their absence every day. The USAA Poppy Wall of Honor is seen on the National Mall Friday, May 26, 2023 in Washington. The temporary Memorial Day exhibit created by USAA consists of more than 645,000 poppy flowers, with each flower honoring a fallen military service member since World War I on Friday, May 26, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Eric Kayne/AP Images for USAA) Eric Kayne The Poppy Wall of Honor will be on display May 24 through May 26 on the National Mall at the base of the Lincoln Memorial between the Reflecting Pool and Korean War Memorial. Visitors can expect to see: The Poppy Wall of Honor is 133 feet long and stands 8-1/2 feet tall and contains a two-sided interactive, digital exhibit experience. Visitors will learn more about the true meaning of Memorial Day, the poppy flower and conflicts since WWI. More than 600,000 poppy flowers provided by Veterans of Foreign Wars Buddy Poppies and The American Legions Memorial Poppies fill one side of the wall, representing the lives lost since WWI. This years Poppy Wall of Honor experience includes new features such as: A 22 wide x 11 tall LED wall enhancement that will immerse visitors in poppy fields and an excerpt from the poem We Shall Keep The Faith by Moina Michael. The poem establishes the poppy as a symbol of remembrance before visitors walk along the panels containing more than 600,000 of the red poppy flowers  each representing a life lived and lost in service to our country. A special panel commemorating the 80th anniversary of the U.S. military lives lost during D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy during WWII. Visitors may view the Poppy Wall of Honor during the following days and times: Friday, May 24: 10 a.m.  9 p.m. EST Saturday, May 25: 9 a.m.  9 p.m. EST Sunday, May 26: 9 a.m.  6 p.m. EST To help expand the reach and to educate new and younger audiences, USAA has partnered with influencer @EllieGoldenLife, who will assist in educating Americans about Memorial Day and honoring fallen service members. For those unable to view the exhibits in person, you can contribute to the Memorial Day conversation by honoring a loved one or sharing a remembrance using #PoppyInMemory in your social channels. More details can be found at usaa.com/memorialday.

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U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, pictured in Omaha on March 28, 2024, raised concerns Wednesday with U.S. House Republicans farm bill proposal. (Photo by Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)

WASHINGTON  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on a call with reporters Wednesday strongly criticized a farm bill draft written by U.S. House Republicans, saying it would damage the coalition that traditionally has united behind farm bills and raises the real possibility of being unable to get a farm bill through the process.

The massive five-year legislation governing farm, nutrition, commodity and conservation programs is scheduled for a markup beginning Thursday morning in the House Agriculture Committee, headed up by Chairman Glenn GT Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican.

It already has appeared headed for a clash with a proposal in the Democratic-controlled Senate amid disagreements over anti-hunger and conservation programs. In addition, the must-pass bill faces a House with a slim 217-213 GOP majority.

Vilsack expressed frustration that work on the $1.5 trillion measure has been delayed by eight months and said he has deep concerns about the proposed package released by Thompson last week. Lawmakers fighting over spending and the speaker post in the House last year passed an extension of the 2018 farm bill that expires Sept. 30.

I appreciate the fact that folks are working hard. I appreciate the fact that theyve listened to people out there in the countryside, said Vilsack, a former governor of Iowa.

But Im afraid that what we have is a circumstance where the proposal being advanced by the House of Representatives, the Republican members of the Ag Committee, it really is designed not to create a route to passage  I think its designed, unfortunately, for a route to impasse, which will cause a further delay.

Cuts to nutrition, disaster programs

Vilsack said he objects to provisions that would reduce spending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, that delivers food assistance to more than 40 million low-income families.

By limiting future updates to the Thrifty Food Plan, the basis for benefit levels, the bills reductions would amount to $30 billion over 10 years, the liberal-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has estimated. Vilsack put the number at $27 billion.

Its been clear that there has been a coalition historically that is central to the passage of the farm bill, which understands the importance of addressing the nutrition programs and the farm programs, Vilsack said. It is essentially a crack in the coalition that is absolutely necessary to the passage of the farm bill  The fact that were crossing that red line raises the real possibility of being unable to get a farm bill through the process.

He said he also has a problem with a section of the House bill dealing with the Commodity Credit Corporation, which carries out various farm programs.

The legislation would restrict the USDAs authority to use the CCCs Section 5, which Vilsack said would tie the agencys hands in responding to natural disasters affecting farmers and force USDA to rely on Congress to enact disaster assistance.

Theres no assurance that such bills get passed, Vilsack said. And secondly, oftentimes Congress underfunds those bills, as was the case so recently with the 2023 situation disasters.

He said Thompson is proposing essentially to eliminate the capacity of the secretary of Agriculture to utilize the CCC in the face of a natural disaster, for example, that distorts markets. He also said he believes the bill overestimates the savings that would be obtained.

Vilsack said he prefers a farm bill proposal offered by Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, describing it as more practical and doable. Stabenow, who has released a summary of her bill but not the text, would boost eligibility for nutrition programs such as SNAP, among other provisions.

Chair defends proposal

Thompson, in a statement after the call, pushed back on Vilsacks comments and said his bill makes historic investments in agriculture.

Its clear from this eleventh hour push that the Secretary is determined to use every penny of the borrowing authority made available to him to circumvent Congress if left unchecked, he said. The Committee is reasserting Congress authority over the Commodity Credit Corporation, which will bring reckless administrative spending under control and provides funding for key bipartisan priorities in the farm bill.

The sudden rancor on using the CCC as a pay-for is nothing more than the latest partisan attempt to divide our committee and slow down progress on passing a farm bill.

The committee in a press release Wednesday also listed multiple statements of praise for the Thompson proposal, including the president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, the CEO of the National Conference of State Legislatures, the CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and leaders of various commodity and trade groups.

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The wreck of one of the most storied US Navy submarines of World War II has been found in the South China Sea eight decades after its last patrol, the Navys History and Heritage Command said Thursday.

The USS Harder lies under 3,000 feet (about 900 meters) of water off the northern Philippine island of Luzon, sitting upright and intact except for damage behind its conning tower from a Japanese depth charge, the NHHC said in a press release.

Harder was lost in battle on August 24, 1944, along with its entire crew of 79 submariners, while on its sixth patrol of the war, as the US sought to retake the Philippines from occupying Japanese forces.

Harder was lost in the course of victory. We must not forget that victory has a price, as does freedom, NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, a retired US Navy admiral, said in the press release.

According to a US Navy history, Harder sank two Japanese escort ships off the Bataan Peninsula on August 22, 1944, and then headed north along the Luzon coast with two other subs in search of more targets.

U.S. Navy archive photo of USS Harder. - Naval History and Heritage Command

In a battle with Japanese escort ship CD-22 on the morning of August 24, Harder fired three torpedoes that missed and was later sunk by the Japanese ships fifth depth charge attack, according to Japanese records cited by NHHC.

The NHHC said the wreck of the Harder was confirmed by data provided by the Lost 52 Project, an effort led by Tim Taylor, CEO of Tiburon Subsea, to find the 52 US subs lost in World War II.

The group has previously located at least six WWII subs, the NHHC said.

We are grateful that Lost 52 has given us the opportunity to once again honor the valor of the crew of the Hit em Harder submarine, the NHHCs Cox said, in reference to the vessels motto.

The NHHC said the wreck is the final resting place of Sailors that gave their life in defense of the nation and should be respected by all parties as a war grave.

The Philippines was a US territory attacked by Japan just after its strike on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. By the spring of 1942, US and Philippine forces on Luzon surrendered to Tokyos forces and Japan used the captured archipelago to protect its supply lines from the East Indies and Southeast Asia.

But by mid-1944, the US was rolling back Japanese gains across the Pacific, and was planning landings to do the same in the Philippines.

Harder, which had the motto of Hit em Harder, was captained by Cmdr. Samuel Dealey, who would be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the US militarys highest decoration, for his actions in Harders fifth patrol, from March to July 1944.

During that time Harder sank three Japanese destroyers with another two likely destroyed or heavily damaged over the course of just four days, according to the National Medal of Honor Museum.

The museums page on Dealey described one particularly harrowing encounter.

Coming under attack from a Japanese destroyer, Dealey ordered a head-on torpedo shot at the bow of the charging enemy, known as a down the throat shot, according to the museum account.

At 1,500 yards, Dealey fired three torpedoes and ordered the sub to dive. As the Harder passed 80 feet underneath the destroyer, two of the torpedoes struck the ship, sending shock waves through the submarine.

On its first four patrols after commissioning on December 2, 1942, Harder sank 14 Japanese warships and merchant vessels, according to the Medal of Honor Museum.

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BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Friday said it is welcome to see more countries to jointly play a constructive role in de-escalating the Ukraine crisis and promoting talks for peace.

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks at a daily news briefing when asked to introduce the "Common Understandings Between China and Brazil on Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis," which was issued by the two sides on Thursday.

Wang said that top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi met with special advisor to Brazilian president on Thursday in Beijing. They had an in-depth exchange of views on the Ukraine crisis, and reached six common understandings.

These six common understandings reflect not just the joint position of China and Brazil, but also the widespread concern and genuine desire of the vast international community for promoting political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, the spokesperson added.

The spokesperson said with the full-blown Ukraine crisis now in its third year, the fighting has shown no sign of stopping and generated more spillovers. It is widely believed that the pressing priority is to cool down the situation and accumulate conditions for ceasefire, he added.

"Many developing countries, including China and Brazil, have called for upholding an objective and just position on the Ukraine crisis," Wang said, adding that all of these countries believe that dialogue and negotiation is the only viable way out of the crisis.

Wang noted that the common understandings, though jointly initiated by China and Brazil, are meant for the world.

"We welcome more countries, developing and developed countries alike, to support and endorse these common understandings, and jointly play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation and promoting talks for peace," said the spokesperson. 
Mike Callahan, Duke Energys South Carolina president, testifies in front of the S.C. Public Service Commission Thursday, May 23, 2024. The utility is seeking permission to rase its rates for power customers in South Carolina's Upstate for the first time in more than five years. (Screenshot of SCETV Public Service Commission livestream)

COLUMBIA  Power bills for Duke Energy residential customers in Upstate South Carolina could go up, on average, by $12.50 a month in August, then rise by more than $6 additional monthly starting in 2026.

Still, the proposal is less than the companys initial ask thanks to an agreement struck between the utility and consumer groups.

South Carolina utility regulators heard Thursday from Duke Energy Carolinas as the company seeks to increase electric rates for its roughly 830,000 customers in the Upstate  658,000 of those being residential payers.

Its unclear when regulators will make a decision.

The change would mark the first increase to the base electric rate charged to Dukes Upstate customers in more than five years. However, rates have risen, on average, by roughly $16.50 monthly over that time span anyway due to the cost of power plant fuels such as coal and natural gas, as well as other costs such as energy efficiency programs.

In January, Duke sought to charge South Carolina customers by $323 million more yearly.

But a deal brokered by Duke and state utility watchdogs would cut a quarter of those charges and speed up the use of federal tax breaks to keep rates lower for the next two years.

Without the deal, the average residential customer with a bill of about $140 would pay more than $17 monthly starting in August, plus an additional $4 monthly in August 2026.

To get to the reduced number, Duke agreed that it would cut in half the amount it passes on the customers for its board of directors pay and expenses. It also removed expenses for industry organization dues, corporate sponsorships of community events, research and development and employee perks, such as baby showers, cookouts, flowers and ice cream parties.

Duke has argued it needs more revenue to pay for its power plants, renewable energy sources and power lines it necessary to serve a customer base that has grown 2.4% across North Carolina and South Carolina in the past year.

We are taking steps to keep pace with and anticipate the changes occurring in our state, said Mike Callahan, Duke Energys South Carolina president. We appreciate the parties involved thoughtfully considering the needs of our customers and our ability to continue investing in our states booming economy.

Other stipulations were made related to what the company can charge customers for coal ash clean up, storm emergency funds and its corporate headquarters building in Charlotte.

Duke, in turn, has agreed to bear the $1 million cost to study affordability measures for low-income customers and $1 million on a weatherization program to help homeowners make their homes more energy efficient.

South Carolina has some of the highest energy bills in the country, and low-income customers are the most in need of relief, said Kate Mixson, an attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center. Were pleased to have reached this settlement that will help families struggling to afford basic needs and essential services while trying to keep the lights on.

While the rates utilities are allowed to charge are bound by regulation, the companies are allowed under state law to be compensated for certain costs of providing service and make a guaranteed rate of return on the power lines, pipelines and power generation they build.

The agreement would take the company down from the 10.5% profit rate it was asking for to 9.94%.

The state Department of Consumer Affairs, which did not sign on to the settlement proposal being considered by utility regulators, would like to see that rate further lowered as hearings continue over the next few days.

Duke is not the only utility seeking to raise rates in the state.

Virginia-headquartered Dominion Energy applied in March to raise its rates by about 14%, costing the average residential customer nearly $19 more per month starting in September. The typical residential customer currently pays $146 per month.

The Public Service Commission, which regulates utilities, is expected to hear that case in July.

Last year, Duke Energy secured a rate increase for the customers it serves in the Pee Dee. The typical residential bill there is about $148 a month.

Public input sessions for upcoming Dominion Energy rate case

 Aiken: Thursday, May 30, 6p.m.

Aiken County Government Center, County Council chambers

1930 University Parkway, 3rd floor

 Bluffton: Monday, June 10, 6 p.m.

Bluffton Town Council chambers

20 Bridge Street

 North Charleston: Thursday, June 27, 6 p.m.

Lonnie Hamilton III Public Services Building, County Council chambers

4045 Bridgeview Drive

 Columbia: Monday, July 8; 10 a.m.  noon; and 5 p.m.  9 p.m.

Public Service Commission hearing room

101 Executive Center Drive

Let us know what you think...

The post Utility regulators weigh increased power rates for Duke Energys Upstate customers appeared first on SC Daily Gazette.
To Veronica Mata, mother of 10-year-old Uvalde, Texas, victim Tess Marie Mata, the second year after her daughter's death feels even "more real."

"The reality is hitting that Tess is no longer here with us," she said. "She's gone and is never coming back."

In the two years since 19 students and two teachers were killed in the Robb Elementary School mass shooting, some families of the 21 victims killed continue to search for answers and seek justice.

PHOTO: An undated photo of 10-year-old Uvalde victim Tess Marie Mata. (Family Handout)

The city of Uvalde and the federal government are among the agencies that investigated the shooting, leading to an overhaul of the city police department's policies and the implementation of training. Some families say that is not enough, demanding accountability for the first city officers to arrive on scene at Robb Elementary on May 24, 2022.

"How much more can we take?" Mata said. "Our girl [was] taken in the most horrific way possible, and we just want people to understand that we are fighting for what is right. And we feel so defeated."

Here's where the investigation stands:

Among multiple agency investigations, the only open investigation is a criminal case brought by Uvalde District Attorney Christina Mitchell. A grand jury started reviewing evidence against hundreds of officers in January.

The DA began her criminal investigation into the law enforcement failures shortly after the shooting. Mitchell said in May 2023 that she had been "optimistic" that the investigation would be completed by the one-year mark, but added that it was "not surprising" that it was still ongoing "given the magnitude of this investigation."

The investigation has since extended into 2024.

PHOTO: An FBI agent walks by the outside of Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas May 25, 2022. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

In January, the Justice Department released a scathing report after it found "critical failures" before, during and after the shooting, and major departures from established active-shooter protocols.

The school district was woefully unprepared, the report found. Most officers "lacked specialized, advanced training and preparation to handle such situations" and the school district had cultivated "a culture of complacency regarding locked-door policies" -- both of which contributed to the challenges in responding to the shooting.

The report stressed that the "most significant failure" was when the officers who arrived first on scene retreated from the classroom and treated the gunman as a barricaded subject, not an active shooter.

PHOTO: A man places a candle on a memorial for the 19 children and two adults killed on May 24th during a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX, May 30, 2022. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

MORE: Uvalde parents outraged after independent report finds police officers didn't violate policy

Officers from Uvalde police, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Texas Department of Public Safety were among those who rushed to the school. But law enforcement waited some 77 minutes before breaching a classroom and killing the gunman.

The officers "should have immediately recognized the incident as an active shooter situation, using the resources and equipment that were sufficient to push forward immediately and continuously toward the threat until entry was made into classrooms 111/112 and the threat was eliminated," the report said.

During the shooting, 10-year-old Khloie Torres made several phone calls to 911, begging law enforcement through whispers to come and rescue her and her classmates.

"Please hurry, there's a lot of dead bodies," Khloie told the dispatcher. "I know how to handle these situations. My dad taught me when I was a little girl. Send help for my teachers. They're still alive, but they're shot."

PHOTO: Residents attend a vigil for victims of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, May 25, 2022. (Eric Thayer/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

After the shooting ended, investigators described a chaotic scene in which dead bodies were transported in ambulances and injured students were loaded onto buses.

"[Some] families received incorrect information suggesting their family members had survived when they had not," the Department of Justice report said. "Others were notified of the deaths of their family members by personnel untrained in delivering such news."

"The extent of misinformation, misguided and misleading narratives, leaks, and lack of communication about what happened on May 24 is unprecedented and has had an extensive, negative impact on the mental health and recovery of the family members and other victims, as well as the entire community of Uvalde," the report said.

PHOTO: People attend a vigil to mourn for victims of a school mass shooting at Town Square in Uvalde, Texas, May 29, 2022. (Wu Xiaoling/Xinhua via Getty Images)

The purpose of the Justice Department's probe was not a criminal investigation, but rather an exhaustive review of law enforcement's response at Robb Elementary. This Critical Incident Review made many recommendations in its report, including: officers should be trained on active shooter courses in one-, two-, three- and four-person groups; responders "must be prepared to approach the threat and breach or enter a room using just the tools they have with them, which is often a standard-issue firearm"; intelligence should be shared immediately with all law enforcement; if an active shooter has access to victims, they "should never be ... treated as a barricaded subject"; and each victim's family should be assigned an advocate to work with them consistently.

After the Justice Department report, the city of Uvalde immediately announced it was putting in place new training, equipment and personnel for its police force.

MORE: DOJ cites 'unimaginable horror' and 'cascading failures' in scathing Uvalde shooting report

In March, an independent investigative report commissioned by the city of Uvalde found that none of the initial five Uvalde Police Department officers who responded to the shooting violated policy or committed serious acts of misconduct.

But the report did find many failures in the police response, including a lack of communication, a lack of records and a lack of selecting a clear leader.

PHOTO: White crosses marking the deaths are pictured in front of Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX, May 26, 2022. (Sarah L. Voisin/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

The report recommended that the SWAT team in Uvalde be disbanded and for the Uvalde officers to join a regional SWAT team until they gained more experience.

Weeks after the city council report was released, the new Uvalde police chief, Homer Delgado, unveiled a plan to "overhaul" the police department, with changes including: acquiring modern equipment; prioritizing and expanding community outreach; and dedicating time and funds to new training. Delgado said he'll also hold department-wide reviews of past actions, including one-on-one interviews with every Uvalde police officer.

Gloria Cazares, whose 9-year-old daughter, Jackie, was killed, said she's not confident that any policy changes will make a difference, noting that the first officers who responded to the shooting are still employed by the department.

Veronica Mata and Gloria Cazares attended an April 23 city council meeting and pleaded with Uvalde mayor pro-tem Everardo Zamora to take action against the Uvalde police officers who responded that day.

"You are not in our shoes," Veronica Mata told Zamora. "So for you to sit here and say that you understand and that you are trying to do things, you are not. You are not. How can you sit here and look at us -- day, after day, after day -- and do nothing. Nothing to help us. Our children sat in there for 77 minutes -- and y'all did nothing and you continue to do nothing."

PHOTO: An undated photo of 9-year-old Uvalde victim Jackie Cazares. (Courtesy Gloria Cazares.)

Based on what the Cazareses had been told about their daughter's injuries and the extent of the blood she lost, they said they believe Jackie could have survived if police hadn't waited 77 minutes to confront the shooter.

"What I want is those officers that were in the hallway, those officers that were immediately in the hallway, there has to be some kind of consequences," Cazares told ABC News. "I would like to see them lose their job."

Zamora said the Uvalde police policies were outdated and officers didn't have proper training, according to the independent investigative report commissioned by the city. The pro-tem mayor promised there'd be new training and new equipment.

MORE: Uvalde families reach settlement

This week, 19 families reached a settlement with the city of Uvalde. The city will pay out a total of $2 million from its insurance coverage.

As a part of the settlement, the families said they were involved in the efforts to improve the Uvalde Police Department. The settlement also mandates ways the city should support the community as residents heal, including creating a committee to design a permanent memorial funded by the city.

The families this week also announced lawsuits against 92 Texas Department of Public Safety officers. The lawsuit names the Uvalde School District and several of its employees as defendants, including the then-principal and then-school district police chief.

The families also plan to sue the federal government, their attorney said, noting that over 150 federal officers were at the school.

"We're fighting for the things that we believe are right and to remember our loved ones," Cazares said. "There's not a day that goes by that we don't remember them or that we don't remember what happened. And I just don't want the world to forget that, either."

Uvalde 2 years later: Where the investigation stands originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
After 19 children and two adults were killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on May 24, 2022, in what became Texas' deadliest school mass shooting, the grieving families joined together in pushing for gun safety reforms at the Legislature.

Over protests, news conferences, legislative hearings and outbursts in Capitol hallways, the parents and families of those who were gunned down have pleaded with lawmakers over the past two years to make legislative changes to help prevent gun violence.

However, on the second anniversary of the shooting, many of their requested policy initiatives remain unfulfilled and any forward movement is unlikely in the Republican-controlled state government.

More: The Uvalde school shooting thrust them into the national spotlight. Where are they now?

Projects to build a mental health facility in Uvalde and to further fund school safety infrastructure are underway, but the families' marquee efforts to raise the legal age to purchase an assault-style weapon from 18 to 21 and to hold law enforcement accountable for its botched response to the shooting have gained limited traction.

Here's what has resulted of Uvalde residents' calls for stricter gun control measures during the 2023 legislative session:

Families of Uvalde school shooting victims rally at the Capitol on May 8, 2023. The grieving families' efforts in pushing for gun safety reforms haven't seen much success at the Legislature.

Hope in a Texas House hearing

In a brief glimmer of hope for the shooting victims' families, a proposed bill to increase the age limit to purchase an assault style weapon overcame partisan odds and advanced successfully from a committee to the House floor last May.

The biggest gun safety measure to be considered by the Legislature in the shooting's aftermath, House Bill 2744 would have raised the minimum age limit to purchase AR-15-style, semi-automatic rifles from 18 to 21.

Advocating for the legislation was a weekslong effort rather than a single event, as families made their way from Uvalde to the Capitol weekly to advocate the measure and push lawmakers into taking action over the course of lengthy, hourslong hearings.

As we've waited more than 13 hours (to testify), I'm reminded of May 24, 2022, when we waited hours to be told our daughter would never come home, Kimberly Rubio, whose daughter Lexi was killed in the shooting, said during a hearing last April. I expressed confusion then, and I'm perplexed now. Did you think we would go home?

The Robb Elementary gunman legally purchased his weapon just days after his 18th birthday after having unsuccessfully tried to acquire one before he was legally old enough to do so.

Nikki Cross, guardian of Uvalde shooting victim Uziyah Garcia, cries alongside Rep. Rhetta Bowers, D-Garland, during a 2023 news conference calling for gun law reform,

With two Republicans voting with the panel's Democratic members, the House Select Committee on Community Safety by an 8-5 vote forwarded the bill for further consideration to the full House, which would be the only time the proposal was considered on the record.

More: See memorials in Uvalde and across Texas that honor victims of Robb Elementary shooting

"I'm overwhelmed with gratitude and happiness, and I'm so glad. It's a huge emotional victory for my constituents and those families, said Rep. Tracy King, D-Uvalde, holding back tears after the committee advanced the bill.

That victory, however, proved to be short-lived as the bill languished in the House, failing to get a hearing before legislative deadlines cut off its chance to be considered.

'I wanted this bill to make a difference'

The first bill to pass from either chamber last year, Senate Bill 728 brought Texas in line with federal background check standards for potential juvenile gun buyers.

While procedural in nature and not the policy shift families from Uvalde hoped would come during the legislative session, SB 728 by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, enhanced the process of reviewing juvenile mental health records, centralizing information on the cases of those aged 16 or older who were found to be unfit to proceed with a gun purchase based on certain mental health criteria.

Mirroring and complying with the 2022 federal Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, in Texas, anyone who has been "found not responsible, receiving court-ordered mental health services, or admitted to a residential care facility due to intellectual disability or mental illness in a delinquency proceeding" would be barred from purchasing a firearm.

Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, wrote a bill that enhanced the process of reviewing juvenile mental health records, centralizing information on the cases of those aged 16 or older who were found to be unfit to proceed with a gun purchase based on certain mental health criteria.

In passing the legislation out of the conservative Texas Senate, Huffman walked the fine political line Texas lawmakers must toe in addressing gun safety reforms, as Democrats typically jockey to tack on additional safety measures while Republicans seek assurances that such laws will not impede the rights of gun owners.

"We can have good ideas, but if we can't get it passed, then it's not going to make a difference," Huffman said, politely pushing against Democratic offerings to the bill last March. "So I wanted this bill to make a difference."

Despite supporting the policy, Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio, whose district includes Uvalde, said the change to better analyze existing mental health records neglects limiting purchases by those who do not have a mental health history, such as the Uvalde gunman.

"So, first off, I applaud you on this, but this is not foolproof, really nothing is, is it?" Gutierrez said, prior to the bill passing with broad support in both chambers and taking effect in September.

Brett and Nicole Cross of Uvalde and Christina Delgado of Community Justice Action Fund meet with Sen. Roland Gutierrez on April 27, 2023. The Crosses have been vocal in their quest for reforms after the Uvalde school shooting.

Similarly, Dru Stevenson, a South Texas College of Law in Houston law professor with a focus on gun policy, said that while the change is a positive incremental adjustment, failures to report records and Texas' aversion to complying with federal practices remain issues.

"Because of our society's concerns about privacy for medical records, a lot of those names never get submitted," Stevenson told the Statesman on Thursday. "And so it's a big breakdown in our background check system."

More: Uvalde Police Department's Facebook page says it 'does not allow comments.' Is it legal?

Previously, a legislative look at background checks for gun purchases came up in 2019, in the aftermath of a Midland-Odessa shooting rampage. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate, railed against the lack of background checks in private gun sales.

However, nothing came of the issue as legislation filed to address private gun purchase requirements never received a hearing in Patrick's chamber.

Age limit increase fails

Despite HB 2744 advancing from committee, the proposal to raise the minimum age to purchase military-style rifles to 21 did not advance in the House and was abandoned alongside several Uvalde shooting-related proposals.

While some of the legislative changes the Uvalde families sought focused on law enforcement accountability, such as a bill to remove officers' qualified immunity that shields them from civil lawsuits, their main goal was to limit the purchase of assault-style weapons.

Of any reform the victims' families hoped would come out of the legislative session last year, the proposed increase to the minimum gun purchase age was far and away their biggest policy priority.

"It seems like a small ask," Stevenson said. "There are a lot of lawful gun owners who don't want anybody to take their assault rifle away, but probably even most people who own an AR-style weapon in Texas would have no objection" to increasing the minimum purchase age.

Gutierrez, who authored nearly two dozen bills after the shooting and became one of the Uvalde families' staunchest allies in the Capitol, reiterated his frustrations ahead of the shooting's second anniversary and blamed Texas Republicans, namely Gov. Greg Abbott and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, for not allowing necessary changes to gun laws.

"The fact is those kids in Uvalde died because cops were scared of that gun, and yet the Republicans that run this state have done nothing to fix this issue," Gutierrez said Monday in a video posted to X. "All we asked for was to raise the age limit on access to an assault weapon like an AR-15."

Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio, hugs Gloria Cazares, mother of slain Robb Elementary student Jackie Cazares, after a Jan. 18 news conference with U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in Uvalde.

More: Gov. Greg Abbott uses NRA speech in Dallas to amplify his endorsement of Donald Trump

Other bills failed to receive hearings, including legislation to establish both a $300 million Uvalde victims fund and a school violence victims compensation fund.

Legislation for extreme risk protective orders to include a temporary repossession of guns from someone believed to pose a danger to themselves or others and allowing the Uvalde families to sue the state and its agencies were also left unheard.

Mental health investment in Uvalde

In the wake of the shooting, the Legislature allocated $34 million to construct a 32-bed mental health facility in Uvalde, which is scheduled to break ground this summer.

Set to be housed on a 7-acre site, about 3 miles from Robb Elementary, the new facility will serve both Uvalde and the rural 32-county surrounding region.

More: Uvalde shooting victims' families sue Texas DPS, 92 officers over botched police response

"This new behavioral health campus will provide Texans experiencing a mental health crisis with access to mental health professionals and around-the-clock treatment to address their needs," Abbott said in a statement last month, announcing the upcoming start to the project.

The mental health facility's funding was allocated after an "initial investment" $5 million by state lawmakers in the shooting's immediate aftermath to provide a resiliency center and to meet the community's initial mental health needs, including psychological first aid and crisis counseling for residents and first responders.

An additional $1.2 million was earmarked for school counseling and crisis intervention programs.

However, for Stevenson, the law professor, the focus on mental health can be viewed as "pragmatics or political expediency" and a shield from the broader argument of gun safety reform.

"From the pro-gun people standpoint, it's a way of minimizing the problem and saying, 'Look, the problem all of this horrific gun violence is caused by a few crazy people,' and it's easy for people to latch on to that idea," Stevenson said.

School safety funding

Much like mental health funding, school security initiatives were a major part of Abbott's response to the Uvalde shooting as he identified school safety funding as an outset priority for the Legislature last year, asking lawmakers to craft a deal to bolster schools' safety technology, hardening equipment and mental health resources.

After several iterations and a volley of negotiations between budget writers in each chamber, lawmakers passed a $328 million school safety package to both fund safety infrastructure and provide Texas schools with "a new standard of emergency preparedness and response."

A key component of the funding package will be an increase in school safety audit requirements, which will allow state inspectors to visit campuses for compliance checks each year, said Sen. Robert Nichols, R-Jacksonville, a main author of the bill.

Under House Bill 3, which passed despite some Democratic opposition over a lack of mental health considerations, school districts were allocated $15,000 per campus and $10 per student for safety-related funding.

In earlier drafts of the bill a provision in the legislation required all campuses to have an armed staff member on site, but that requirement was dropped before its final passage. HB 3 became effective in September.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Families fought for gun legislation in aftermath of Uvalde shooting
Brett and Nikki Cross vow to continue fighting for justice after their son, Uziyah Garcia, was killed in a mass shooting at Uvaldes Robb Elementary School where 19 fourth grade students and two teachers were killed.

Their 10-year-old son, affectionally called Uzi, was killed by an 18-year-old gunman before a Border Patrol agent shot the assailant 77 minutes after the massacre began May 24, 2022.

They had the training. They had the time and the knowledge of what to do, and they failed horribly. We started with the school police, now we are focusing on the Uvalde Police Department, and after that we will move onto the sheriff's office, then the DPS and then Border Patrol, Brett Cross said, seeking accountability for the delay in shooting the assailant.

Since the shooting, Texas Department of Public Safety Director Col. Steve McCraw testified before a Uvalde grand jury along with multiple officers and officials.

Brett and Nicole Cross, parents of Uvalde school shooting victim Uziyah Garcia, speak at a news conference last year in support of an unsuccessful Texas House bill to raise the age limit for some firearms sales to 21.

In late February, Brett Cross was detained and arrested while attending a Uvalde County Commissioners Court meeting.

My child is f------ dead, he said during the meeting. After the verbal confrontation, directed at Uvalde County Commissioner Mariano Pargas, Cross was charged with disruption of a meeting, a Class B misdemeanor. He targeted Pargas because he was the acting police chief of the Uvalde Police Department the day of the shooting.

I think that they tried to silence me, Brett Cross said. Uvalde wants us to shut up and move on and sweep it under the rug, and they thought they were going to do that by having me arrested. All they did was bring more attention to Uvalde and more attention to Uziyah. Our whole fight is making sure that he is remembered that he is not a statistic. We fight to save children's lives.

Brett Cross acknowledges that no matter how hard he and his wife, Nikki, fight to make officials accountable, they cant bring Uzi back.

Brett Cross listens to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland speak at a Jan. 18 news conference in Uvalde about the poor police response to the 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School.

But they hope their continued attention to the law enforcement response to the shooting might eventually save at least one life in the future.

The Crosses have become advocates for stricter gun legislation since the mass shooting.

Federally, I would love to see an assault weapons ban, Brett Cross said. What people do not understand is that we are not coming into your homes and taking them. It is a pipeline freeze  no more production  what is already out will be grandfathered in. We need better red-flag laws. We need laws.

The couple said they believe that change starts at home in Uvalde. This hope for pushing forward progress aligned with the views of recent Uvalde mayoral candidate, Kim Mata-Rubio.

Mata-Rubio lost daughter Lexi Rubio in the shooting. Mata-Rubio finished second in the Uvalde mayor's race. Advocating for stricter gun laws, Mata-Rubio has become one of many in the divided town to demand accountability and change.

Alongside residents such as the Cross family, those advocates do not believe the mayors race ended in success.

I thought that it was very disheartening to see our community turn on one of the moms that I was very close to, Nikki Cross said. Kim is a good person, and I believe that she would have made a lot of positive change for Uvalde.

Attempts to reach Mata-Rubio for comment were unsuccessful.

Fighting for change has not been confined to Uvalde County.

Brett Cross attended a survivor-led sit-in for gun reform in Washington, D.C., led by Sam Schwartz and the Ban Assault Weapons Now group.

He rallied alongside fellow activists: Schwartz, father of Alex Schachter, 14, killed at Stoneman Douglas High School; Manuel Oliver, father of Joaquin Oliver, 17, also of Stoneman Douglas where 17 people died; and Po Murray, neighbor of the Sandy Hook Elementary School gunman who killed 20 students and six adults.

Some changes, such as raising the age requirement to purchase firearms to the age of 21, were put into effect in Florida just one month after the massacre at Parkland's Stoneman Douglas High School.

In Texas, we would love to see (the age requirement) raised from 18 to 21, Brett Cross said. A three-year difference when your mind develops more  25 would be even better but, as we saw, we could not even get 21.

Brett Cross said he is concerned about making Texas safe.

Brett Cross has a Spider-Man tattoo because the character was slain son Uzis favorite superhero.

The Crosses both have tattoos commemorating their son. Nikki Cross has 21 daisies to represent the 21 lives lost that day. Spider-Man, Uzis favorite superhero, is on Brett Crosss arm.

He also has tattoos of a bullet on his upper spinal column to represent the injury that claimed the life of their son.

This is exactly where he was shot, Brett Cross said. Were talking to these politicians, and they are just not listening, so, I wanted them to see what this looked like on a 230-pound man and to imagine what it would look like on a 60-pound, 10-year-old little boy.

Just in Texas, we have seen mass shootings in schools, Walmart, churches, at a mall. It is literally everywhere, Nikki Cross said, I have had to open myself up to having these conversations with my children that I never dreamed of having: Hey, before we go into Walmart, stay close together; if we hear anything, we are not going to be heroes, we are going to run, and we are going to hide.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Brett Cross wants stricter gun laws after Uvalde school shooting
Community members in San Bernardino stepped in to help two sisters after KTLA reported that they discovered their fathers grave at Pioneer Memorial Cemetery had been desecrated and his ashes scattered.

The Medrano sisters, who have been visiting their fathers gravesite in the cemetery for the last 30 years, found the devastating damage to his grave and others on May 11.

After San Bernardino native Abel Butler saw the story on KTLA 5 News, who also has family in the cemetery, decided to step in with some help of his own.

KTLAs Shelby Nelson caught up with Butler as he was painting and perfecting the Pioneer Memorial Cemetery sign.

Butler, who has been working at the cemetery for the last three days with the help of a few others, said after he heard what happened to the Medrano sisters, he raced over to the cemetery.

I have family here and I had to check them and make sure their stones werent vandalized, he said.

He then reached out to one of the sisters, Margaret, to offer his condolences and said thats when he decided to help with what little money he had to spruce up a place that so many people hold dear.

This represents not only San Bernardino, but this represents everyones loved ones that are in the cemetery, Butler added.

A homeless encampemnt surrounding the gate of Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino, California. (KTLA)

Gravesites were destroyed by vandals at Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino. (Medrano Family)

Gravesites were destroyed by vandals at Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino. (Medrano Family)

Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino, California. (KTLA)

Damaged headstones at Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino, California. (KTLA)

The Medrano sisters were devastated to find their fathers gravesite was removed and destroyed at Pioneer Memorial Cemetery. (KTLA)

Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino, California. (KTLA)

Abel Butler restored the sign of Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in San Bernardino, California. (Abel Butler)

One of the problems is that the cemetery is surrounded by homeless encampments and illegal drug activity, causing many who come to visit their departed loved ones to say they dont feel safe.

If theres no safety, theres not going to be any visitors and its going to seem like nobody cares, but there are a lot of people that care for their family in there, Butler said.

The 170-year-old city-owned cemetery operates like a park with funds from the citys general fund and is maintained by the parks department.

Given its age, it predates many of the laws that are currently in place to protect the property, San Bernardino spokesperson Jeff Kraus told KTLA. It is incumbent upon the city and its general funds that pays for the maintenance, the upkeep, the security and all the operations of the Pioneer Cemetery.

Krauss also said that the city built a fence around the cemetery about two years ago to keep it more secure, with a private security guard opening and closing the gate, but thats about the only protection the cemetery has.

$800K in diamonds, gold and cash stolen in Southern California jewelry heist

Regarding the homeless encampments surrounding the cemetery, city officials said due to a temporary injunction filed by the ACLU, they are currently limited from taking any action.

Unless they are physically breaking the law or operating outside of the injunction against the City of San Bernardino, its very difficult for us to do anything, to say, You have to move, Kraus explained.

The city is looking at the possibility of having a larger police presence at the park.

As for Butler, he said he plans to continue doing work there while he has help and said the city might put flowers around the sign to spruce it up.

A GoFundMe has been organized by community members for those who would like donate to the ongoing repair efforts.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A fundraising arm of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has shoveled nearly $5 million into opposing incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., in his upcoming congressional primary as the group targets progressive critics of Israel's invasion of Gaza.

After contributing just over $2 million to the race last week, the United Democracy Project (UDP) super PAC has spent another almost $1.3 million on ads supporting Bowman's opponent, moderate Democrat George Latimer, and another nearly $1.4 million in negative advertisements about Bowman, campaign finance disclosures released Wednesday showed.

Craig Holman, the government affairs lobbyist for progressive consumer advocacy organization Public Citizen, said that that sum is a "very abnormal" and "extraordinary amount" for an outside group to spend in a congressional race. He told Salon that congressional races typically only see outside spending totals in the hundreds of thousands of dollars for all candidates combined.

"When they spend this kind of money in a single congressional district in New York, that's very, very hard to overcome," Holman said. "I mean, there's no way Bowman can match that kind of spending. And that's just a small congressional district, so that kind of money is gonna have a very, very powerful effect on the election outcome."

AIPAC's turn to campaign spending marks a new era of political participation for the pro-Israel lobbying group, which first started spending on campaigns during the 2022 election cycle. The group has been able to grow its influence by forming UDP, which can legally contribute unlimited amounts of money on ads and communications in races but can't coordinate with campaigns.

UDP has contributed $4,813,617 to the New York District 16 since last Monday, including $2,342,021 supporting Latimer, according to Federal Election Commission data  and a Business Insider report indicated the spending may be higher than the publicly disclosed figures. Progressive and liberal PACs, including Justice Democrats and Working Families Party, on the other hand, have spent just under $300,000 to support Bowman or oppose Latimer since April.

An AIPAC spokesperson told The Guardian it regards Latimer as a "strong advocate for the U.S.-Israel relationship in clear contrast to his opponent who is aligned with the anti-Israel extremist fringe. Bowman, however, has been a vocal critic of Israel's invasion of Gaza and was one of the first members of congress to call for a ceasefire.

The super PAC's ads challenging Bowman, however, do not mention Israel at all, The Guardian reports. One ad from the super PAC instead accuses the New York progressive of pursuing "his own agenda," pointing to the differences between his policies and President Joe Biden.

These "sizable" contributions from UDP and the ads they run can impact the race by boosting constituents' awareness of a primary race and potentially turnout in the June 25 primary, which could lend itself to either candidate, Conor Dowling, a professor of political science at the University at Buffalo, told Salon. If the ads are successful, he explained, they could also "move the needle a little bit" in Latimer's favor.

UDP's spending and unmitigated contributions, including from wealthy megadonors, allow for larger amounts of money to "be spent in a way that it's perhaps somewhat more difficult for voters to make the link between what that group is about and why they are, in this case, attacking Bowman," Dowling added. "Whereas if it was the Latimer campaign or some other PAC associated with a moderate wing of the Democratic Party that might be a more informative signal to voters, and it might allow them to make a more informed decision about how to take the information that comes from the super PAC ad."

While a disparity in funding doesn't always matter, sizable ones "sometimes can," especially in races that historically have low turnout and voter interest, Dowling said.

Latimer has also seen greater success in fundraising, with the moderate Democrat raising more than $3.6 million to Bowman's just under $2.7 million, according to Open Secrets.

Republican donors have offered Latimer major support by way of campaign contributions, according to The Intercept, and AIPAC compiled almost a quarter of their funds. Almost half of Latimer's donations in the final quarter of 2023 also came through AIPAC, the outlet reports.

"AIPAC has exposed itself as nothing more than a vehicle for Republican billionaires to spend millions of dollars in Democratic primaries to attack Democrats of color," Usamah Andrabi, a spokesperson for Justice Democrats, told Salon in a statement. "Every voter in NY-16 should know that the ads and mailers they see attacking Jamaal Bowman are funded by the same MAGA megadonors who want to ban abortion, defend insurrectionists, and elect Donald Trump.

Bowman told Salon in a statement: "AIPAC and its Republican megadonors are targeting me because I stand up for our community's democratic values  from a ceasefire to abortion rights and gun violence prevention  against Donald Trump's MAGA extremism. Unlike my opponent, I will never compromise on our most important freedoms and values for a PAC check from Donald Trump's donors.

Though Latimer has held fundraisers hosted by Republicans, including a major bankroller of former President Donald Trump, his campaign has distanced itself from GOP-hosted fundraisers and told The Intercept he does not have control over who hosted the events.

UDP did not respond to an email request for comment.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

The pro-Israel group setting its sights on Bowman via UDP represents the latest step in its efforts to influence the election outcomes in districts led by progressive representatives that have voiced opposition to Israel's handling of the war in Gaza. AIPAC is expected to spend at least $100 million this election cycle.

"AIPAC is trying and succeeding in having a big impact on this election," Holman said, adding: "You've got a single ideological group trying to influence what the Democratic Party stands for  that's cause for concern. This is not a broad-based effort. This is a single-minded ideological focus group supporting [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu] trying to make the Democratic Party be a pro-Netanyahu party."

The results of UDP's efforts thus far have been mixed. In an Indiana congressional primary, UDP spent $1.6 million in a successful bid to stop former GOP Rep. John Hostettler, who has made antisemitic remarks in the past from regaining a seat in the House. It also took home a victory in Maryland after supporting Democratic candidate Sarah Elfreth, who defeated former U.S. Capitol police officer Harry Dunn. Neither Elfreth or Dunn made comments about Israel or Gaza during the race, The Guardian notes.

UDP has also taken some losses, dropping $4.6 million in a failed bid to prevent Democratic congressional candidate Dave Min from beating out Democratic candidate Joanna Weiss in a California primary race earlier this year. According to The Intercept, AIPAC also failed to recruit at least two candidates to challenge progressive Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa.

New York District 16, a heavy blue region with large numbers of Black, Jewish and Latino constituents, elected Bowman, a member of the progressive "Squad" in Congress, in 2020.

"Bowman may be able to overcome that kind of spending if voters in the district find it quite offensive that AIPAC would be throwing $2 million into the election  and that is a possibility," Holman said, pointing to the National Rifle Association's failures in efforts to influence other congressional races. "But that, quite frankly, is Bowman's only lifeline here."

Dowling said, however, that the question is whether Bowman can mobilize supporters despite his funding disparity.

"It's difficult to predict how the expenditures of these monies will affect turnout in the primary election, and that might be what ends up mattering the most," Dowling said.
HORRRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  As News13 continues to investigate the story of Mica Miller, an Horry County woman who investigators say shot and killed herself in a North Carolina forest last month, another storyline is emerging.

News13 previously reported the sequence of events leading up to her April 27 death in Lumber River State Park, and also has looked into her husband John-Paul, pastor of Solid Rock Church in Market Common.

Mica said before her death, John-Paul harassed her and put tracking devices on her vehicle.

Recently, John-Pauls father, Reginald Wayne Miller, shared his thoughts on Micas death with an international audience.

A decade ago, News13s Trish Munn reported on a small Bible college in Marion founded and operated by Reginald Miller  and the subsequent federal charges he faced on allegations of forced labor by students.

This time, Wayne Miller reached out to the media himself, sending a length email to the website of British newspaper The Daily Mail in which he defended his son and took aim at Mica.

In the email, Wayne Miller said that Mica suffered previous psychotic episodes and had earlier tried to kill herself. At one point, he even described Mica as a very, very sick young woman.

And while the elder Miller is now chiming in on this latest series of events, he himself also has a headline-making past.

In 2014, Munn investigated claims at Cathedral Bible College in Marion, where international students say they were forced to work for Wayne Miller with little to no pay.

Miller was charged with crimes that carried a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.

Prior to those series of events, Miller faced prostitution and lewdness charges. Back in 2006, investigators said he exposed himself to an undercover police officer inside a bathroom at Myrtle Beach State Park.

Those charges were eventually wiped from his record after he took part in a pre-trial intervention program.

The Daily Mail website said that the email they received from Miller was more than 900 words long. News13 attempted to contact him but Millers website is down and his old number had been disconnected.

Count on News13 for continuing coverage of Mica Miller and Solid Rock Ministries on-air and online.

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
A rift within Austrias federal government and crumbling opposition in some regions means the countrys veto of EU legislation designed to reverse decades of ecosystem degradation across the union is now in question.

Austria is one of a group of countries that has said it would not support the proposed Nature Restoration Law (NRL) in an inter-governmental vote, despite previous agreement between the EU Council and European Parliament over the key environmental legislation.

Environment minister Leonore Gewessler, a Green and a staunch supporter of the law, has been constrained by the opposition of all of Austrias nine federal states. But in recent days, Carinthia and Vienna have both signalled their support for the nature restoration legislation, subject to certain assurances from the government.

A reversal by Hungarys ruling Fidesz party of its previous support in the European Parliament meant there was no longer the qualified majority of member states needed for what should have been a final rubber stamp after a provisional agreement between MEPs and government delegates.

But it also means that a U-turn in the other direction by any single country in the blocking minority  which includes Finland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden - means the law could be adopted.

Mayor and state governor Michael Ludwig said on Wednesday (22 May) that it was very clear to him that Vienna supported the law and wrote to the other eight regions arguing that their legitimate concerns about [the regulation] have largely been allayed by the compromise struck with a similarly sceptical European Parliament, since adopted in a plenary vote.

In an emailed statement, Gewessler said it was harmful and wrong that the Austrian regions had moved in concert to block the legislation. Things were now moving forward, she said, and called on Carinthia as well as Vienna to nail its colours to the mast.

If the federal states abandon their uniform position, everyone can rely on one thing: I will do everything I can to ensure that Austria agrees to the EU law on the protection of nature, Gewessler said.

A source in the current Belgian presidency of the EU Council told Euronews the nature law would be put back on the agenda as soon as it is clear that it enjoys qualified majority support, which would mean a final vote at a summit of environment ministers scheduled for 27 June  just days before Belgium hands over the reins to Hungary.

Gewessler faces opposition, however, from Austrias Chancellor Karl Nehammer, of the conservative People's Party, who on Thursday (23 May) restated his opposition to a law he described as emblematic of a mania for over-regulation by Brussels, according to local press reports.

WWF Austria dismissed Nehammers remarks as misleading and false and said his rejection of the law lacks any scientific basis. But chief spokesperson for the NGO, Leonhard Steinmann, told Euronews that strictly legally speaking it was still not sufficiently clear what the change of heart by Vienna and Carinthia meant for Austrias support at the EU level.

Nature is our best ally against the climate and biodiversity crisis, WWF Austria said. That is why we now need a political alliance of all constructive forces so Austria can vote in favour of the law at EU level.

Vienna-based environmental umbrella organisation Umweltdachverband (UWD) was more optimistic, saying in an email exchange that it was unlikely now that the two regions would backtrack with their Social Democratic Party (SPO) leaderships even drawing support from Green voters.

This clears the way for Gewessler to agree to the law, and she will do so if she no longer risks being branded a lawbreaker and prosecuted with the consent of the two states, UWD press officer Tina Leonhard said.

The NRL law would require member states to ensure collectively that the natural environment in at least 20% of EU land and sea is subject to restoration measures by 2030, and set concrete targets for action on certain ecosystem types, such as the rewetting of drained peatlands.

Austrian green groups have urged the regional leaders to end their opposition to the law, while a recent poll commissioned by NGOs suggests legislating for nature restoration is supported by around three quarters of the public in the countries that are blocking it.
Virgin is facing a brand nightmare after its cruise giveaway went horribly wrong

Virgin Voyages faces backlash after a free cruise winner said she has to pay $8,000 in flight costs.

The cruise line's Australia voyages were canceled due to tensions in the Red Sea.

Brand experts say Virgin should cover flight costs or offer different prizes to maintain trust.

Virgin Voyages is dealing with a PR nightmare after a woman who won a free cruise said she'd have to pay $8,000 in flights to claim her prize.

The adults-only cruise line, owned by Richard Branson's Virgin Group, is known for giving away free prizes to promote its various international sailings across Australia, Europe, and the Caribbean.

An Australian woman, who used the pseudonym Morgan, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that she and other passengers were gifted free twin-share cruise vouchers while on a Virgin flight from Melbourne to her home in Tasmania in November.

Morgan said she used the voucher to book a cruise out of Brisbane for herself and her partner. However, in February, the company announced that all of its Australia voyages were canceled due to tensions in the Red Sea.

A spokesperson for Virgin previously told Business Insider that it had offered all prize winners new complimentary vouchers for cruises on its other international sailings.

But Morgan said traveling to Europe or the Caribbean is unfeasible, as it could cost her and her partner up to $8,000  more than the $7,000 value of the voucher.

Experts say Virgin should cover the cost of the flights or offer a different prize

Tenile Clarke , a managing director and principal publicist at Chambers Media Solutions, told BI that Virgin should "definitely offer" to pay the cost of the flights.

"Ultimately, this decision boils down to sound reputation management, and the negative publicity that can come from this for Virgin is a significant lesson in the brand's understanding that every customer is a potential ambassador for the product and experience that you offer to any community," Clarke said.

She said this incident is the "antithesis" of Virgin's brand values, which comprise "generosity and lasting social impact."

Richard Branson pictured in 2018. Vincenzo Lombardo/Getty Images

"While I don't think it will hurt on a macro scale, I do believe that they have to look at their reputation as one of the largest airlines operating in Australia  it's one of their largest source markets," Tenille said.

Balkrushna Potdar, a marketing lecturer at the University of Tasmania, told ABC that this incident may cause customers to lose trust in Virgin's brand.

"The winner's negative experience may become a cautionary tale dissuading potential customers from engaging with the brand," he said, adding that the company should cover the cost of the flights.

Speaking to ABC, Morgan said Virgin's PR team "stopped responding" to her messages after she pointed out how expensive the flights would be.

"We were genuinely shocked, we thought Virgin would provide us with an alternative prize like a flight credit or they would allow us to rebook on a later season," Morgan said.

"They sort of gave up on us  like 'you're a bit of a problem now,'" she said.

Emma Cruises, a British travel blogger and cruise expert with around 330,000 YouTube subscribers, told BI that it could be unreasonable to expect Virgin to pay for the flights for every person affected by the Australia cancelations.

"The winners shouldn't be expected to pay for flights to claim their cruise, but I also wouldn't expect Virgin to pay for flights for every guest as it wasn't part of the original prize," Emma said.

"I'm sure that the winners would be happy with an alternative like Virgin gift cards to the value of the cruise, which could be used for Virgin Holidays, flights or experience days," she added.

Virgin Voyages declined to comment when contacted by BI for this story.

Read the original article on Business Insider
I visited Mackinac Island, voted the No. 1 travel destination this summer. No cars are allowed on the dreamy Midwest island.

The cottages on Mackinac Island look like they belong in a fairy-tale. Molly O'Brien for Insider

Mackinac Island is in Lake Huron in Michigan and it feels like it's part of a fairy-tale.

The island has no cars and is filled with historic structures, sweet shops, and pretty cottages.

The island's Grand Hotel is famous for its fancy dinners, high tea, and formal dress codes.

On Wednesday, USA Today announced its No.1 Best Summer Travel Destination as part of its 10Best Readers' Choice awards for 2024. Topping the list is one of the most beautiful islands in the Midwest: Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island  pronounced "mack-in-awe"  sits in Lake Huron, directly between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas.

To get to the island, you fly into the small airport, or take a ferry from Mackinaw City and get dropped off downtown. From there, you can walk on foot, rent a bike, or take a horse-and-carriage "taxi."

Mackinac only has about 500 year-round residents, and over 1 million people visit each year. It's also home to over 500 horses because motorized vehicles have been prohibited since 1898 because they scare the horses.

Keep reading to see what it's like.

There are a few places to stay, but the historic Grand Hotel is worth a visit no matter what

The Grand Hotel looks gorgeous at sunset. Molly O'Brien for Insider

Grand Hotel is one of the few remaining wood-frame hotels in the US and is a National Historic Landmark.

The property overlooks the lake, and its porch, at roughly 660 feet in length, is said to be the longest in the world.

The Grand Hotel feels luxurious inside. Molly O'Brien for Insider

The property, where no two rooms are decorated alike, was built by steamship and train companies in the late 19th century.

Back then, the hotel catered to the ultra-elite, wealthy guests who would spend their entire summers on-site.

In honor of the historic site's grand history, there's still a dress code after 6:30 p.m.  guests must wear a coat, tie, slacks, dress, skirt, or pantsuit in the common areas.

The Grand Hotel has a colorful downstairs, too. Molly O'Brien for Insider

If you spend a night on-site, you'll have the chance to attend a spectacular three-course dinner in the grand main dining room.

There's also a high tea in the parlor each afternoon.

Getting tea at the hotel feels luxurious, too. Molly O'Brien for Insider

There are also stables, museums, and outdoor attractions

Visitors can also check out Surrey Hill, home to attractions like the Grand Stables, where the Grand Hotel's current working horses reside.

The Grand Stables houses a museum, too. Molly O'Brien for Insider

It's also a museum with antique carriages and sleighs on display dating back hundreds of years.

Some have been previously owned by prominent figures of the 19th century, like William Vanderbilt.

The museum houses antique carriages. Molly O'Brien for Insider

Across the way is the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, which hosts hundreds of native and tropical butterflies.

The area also houses historic landmarks, like Fort Mackinac, the oldest building in Michigan, founded in 1780.

The cluster of military buildings sits high on a coastal bluff and is no longer active, but it still serves as a historical attraction open to the public.

There are a lot of horses and bikes in the streets. Molly O'Brien for Insider

You can also rent a bike and pedal around the outer rim of the island. The flat, leisurely 8.2-mile route hugs the coastline and offers gorgeous lake views.

The view from Arch Rock. Molly O'Brien for Insider

It's also worth visiting Mackinac Island State Park, which offers miles of walking trails, woods, and the signature limestone Arch Rock formation.

The area's also known for its fudge and live music

There are a lot of beautiful houses on the island. Molly O'Brien for Insider

When you're downtown, grab some famous Mackinac Island fudge at one of the sweet shops on the main street.

You can watch people make fudge, and the shops are pretty generous with samples.

There are a few sweet shops on the island that sell fudge. Molly O'Brien for Insider

It's also worth visiting the Pink Pony, one of the island's most popular restaurants, bars, and music venues with fabulous lake views from its patio.

This story was originally published on August 2, 2021, and most recently updated on May 24, 2024.

Read the original article on Business Insider
CAIRO, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Egypt will work out a mechanism with the Palestinian Authority (PA) to resume sending humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, Al-Qahera News reported on Friday by quoting a "high-ranking" source.

The report said the unnamed source stressed the Rafah crossing is "an Egyptian-Palestinian crossing" and the resume of aid delivery will be conducted through cooperation with the PA.

Egypt will also continue to oppose any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause or isolate the Gaza Strip from the outside world, according to the report.

Earlier on Friday, Egypt and the United States agreed to send large quantities of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip through the Kerem Shalom crossing.

The decision was made during a phone conversation between Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden.

According to an Egyptian presidential statement, it would be a temporary procedure until "a legal mechanism is reached" to resume the operation of the Rafah crossing from the Palestinian side.

Egypt previously said it rejected any coordination with Israel on the Rafah land crossing after Israel seized the Palestinian side of the crucial crossing on May 7.

The Israeli government said on Friday that it "will continue to enable the Rafah crossing to remain open for the entry of humanitarian assistance from the Egyptian side "while preventing "terror groups from controlling the passage." 
Gold Star family members participated in a wreath laying ceremony on Memorial Day 2023 at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter. (Courtesy of Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services)

A Westerly teen will be the featured speaker at the states 50th Annual Memorial Day ceremony taking place Monday at 1 p.m. at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter.

Abiagael Emery, 15, a sophomore at Westerly High School, took first place for Rhode Island in the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy audio essay competition, a scholarship program sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Emery, daughter of Tiffinay Antoch and Kevin Emery, will read her essay during the program honoring fallen military service members.

Westerly High School student Abiageal Emery wrote about her grandfather in her Voice of Democracy essay. (Courtesy of Abiageal Emery)

Emerys winning essay centers on her grandfather, Albert Antoch, a U.S. Navy veteran now in his 80s, who served on the aircraft carrier USS Essex in the blockade around Cuba during the October 1962 missile crisis. The United States and the Soviet Union were in a tense political and military standoff over the installation of nuclear-armed Soviet missiles in Cuba, just 90 miles from the U.S. coast. While many people feared the world was on the brink of nuclear war, Antoch, who was just 21 years old at the time, told his granddaughter he remembers being confused and had no idea what was going on.

Emery said she asked her grandfather if he would tell her about his military service once she became interested in writing an essay for the Voice of Democracy competition. He was glad to share his story, and she said it made her see her grandfather in a different light.

I knew my grandfather was in the Navy, Emery said in an interview. Not that I didnt care. It just wasnt a huge interest point for me.

His story is so powerful to me because its a direct example of protecting American democracy and the publics welfare, she wrote in her essay initially submitted to Amancio-Falcone-Gaccione VFW Post 8955. The willingness and sacrifice of those involved in the Cuban missile crisis were building blocks to secure what America has built: democracy, freedom, and opportunity.

The theme of the essay competition changes each year. For Emery and other students entering this school year, it was What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy? The winning audio essays from each state can be found here.

At Mondays ceremony, Rhode Islands congressional delegation and general officers will join in honoring service members, veterans and their families, paying tribute to those who died in the line of duty. The Rhode Island National Guard 88th Army Band is scheduled to perform

Gov. Dan McKee, who missed last years ceremony because he was traveling back to Rhode Island from out of state, is scheduled to deliver remarks followed in order by U.S. Sens. Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse; U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner; Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos; Secretary of State Gregg Amore; Attorney General Peter Neronha; and General Treasurer James Diossa.

During the ceremony, wreaths will be laid at the Gold Star Family Memorial at the cemetery.

U.S. Rep Gabe Amo is unable to attend Mondays ceremony because he is participating in the North Providence Memorial Day Parade. The ceremony and the parade in North Providence both begin at 1 p.m. Amos office said he is also planning to march in Memorial Day parades in Barrington and Lincoln on Monday morning.

McKee has directed U.S. and Rhode Island flags at all state agencies and buildings to be flown at half staff from sunrise until noon on Monday in observation of Memorial Day. McKee also asked Rhode Islanders to lower their own flags to half staff during this time. Flags should return to full staff at noon.

Memorial Day is day for Rhode Islanders and the nation to stand together and say thank you to our brave men and women who have served our country and have protected the freedoms we enjoy today, McKee said in a statement Friday.

This is a moment to recognize them, their families, and their sacrifice. Our service members represent the very best of Rhode Island and the United States and we are forever grateful for their selflessness and courage.

The post Voice of Democracy essay winner to deliver Memorial Day keynote appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
Following former President Donald Trump's announcement in April that he would leave the issue of abortion to the states, effectively saying that he would not sign a national abortion ban, some vice presidential hopefuls have had to walk a fine line when it comes to abortion, with many moderating their stance to fall in line with Trump, whose own stance on abortion has changed.

This comes following the impact of the Supreme Court's overruled Roe v. Wade in June 2022, allowing states to decide what abortion access would look like. While many states passed legislation to restrict abortion access, other states that had the issue on the ballot saw voters in both red and blue states rejected restrictions to abortion.

Trump's latest abortion statement came after months of dodging questions about his stance on the specifics of abortion restrictions, avoiding stating whether he supports or opposes a specific number of weeks when it comes to abortion bans. In private conversations with allies and advisers, however, Trump had expressed support for a 16-week national abortion ban with those same exceptions, ABC News reported in February, citing two sources.

MORE: Trump says abortion should be a states' rights issue, Republicans 'must also win elections'

PHOTO: Former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks after a break during his hush money trial at the Manhattan Criminal Court, May 21, 2024, in New York. (Michael M. Santiago/via Reuters)

Trump -- and any potential running mates -- are working to solidify abortion stances in an election year when abortion and access to it remains a top issue for many voters. An outright abortion ban could be a losing stance for Republicans, and Trump has acknowledged the importance of not alienating voters with his position in order to win elections.

During his failed presidential run, Tim Scott said he supported a 15-week national abortion ban. Asked in May if he believed the former president was wrong for saying abortion access should be left to the states, Scott did not directly answer the question

"The Dobbs decisions sent [abortion] back to the states, so the Supreme Court has ruled [and] the leading candidate or Republican nominee has made it very clear that this is a state's issue," Scott said to NBC News.

PHOTO: Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., speaks during a hearing, March 7, 2024, in Washington. (Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

On NBC's Meet the Press recently, Sen. Marco Rubio, who has called himself pro-life and co-sponsored Sen. Lindsey Graham's 15-week national abortion, was asked if he would support a federal abortion ban.

The Florida Republican danced around the questioning, never directly saying he would support a national abortion ban, but not shutting the idea down.

"I'm pro-life, and to me, this is not even a political issue," Rubio said. "I understand this is [political] for a lot of people, and I understand this as a divisive issue in our country, and not everybody shares my views on it. But I believe that human life is worthy of dignity and protection. And I support laws that protect our unborn human life."

In his new book, former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson expressed support for a national ban on abortion, which is the opposite of Trump's current stance on the issue. Asked on CNN on Sunday if he could nudge the former president on abortion, Carson instead touted Trump as a champion of the pro-life movement.

"President Trump does not like to surround himself with yes people," Carson said. "He likes to have healthy discussions about things and recognize that in terms of saving the lives of unborn, he's done more than any other president. So, I give him much credit for that."

MORE: Trump walks back comments on restricting contraceptives

Pressed on whether he thinks Trump is wrong for not supporting a national abortion ban, Carson told CNN's Jake Tapper that he agrees with Trump "shifting" the issue to the states.

Joel Goldstein, a vice-presidential scholar, told ABC News that these vice presidential hopefuls are trying to "maximize" their chance of being picked by aligning more closely with Trump's perspective.

"And so that's put a number of them in sort of awkward situations during Sunday talk shows or other such media where they've been pressed to reconcile their articulated positions with [Trump's]," Goldstein said.

"In vice presidential selection, there's always the challenge of showing that you're politically compatible with the presidential candidate, but by the same token, oftentimes, there is some variation between presidential and vice-presidential candidates, and sometimes it's presented as a good thing."

VP hopefuls modify their stance on abortion to more closely align with Trump originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Former Baltimore City States Attorney Marilyn Mosbys career reached the stars before crashing back to earth. She rose to national prominence when her office criminally charged Baltimore officers in connection with the 2015 police in-custody death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old Black man.

Baltimores Black community praised Mosby for her courage to demand police accountability, even though she failed to convict any of the officers. Liberals also applauded her reform efforts, such as declining to prosecute low-level crimes like marijuana possession.



But Mosbys career quickly spiraled down amid investigations into her private businesses tax reporting and, ultimately, a federal criminal indictment.

On Thursday, she faced a federal judge for sentencing in her perjury and mortgage fraud convictions, which her supporters say unfairly targeted a progressive Black prosecutor.



The Associated Press reports that instead of prison time, U.S. District Judge Lydia Kay Griggsby sentenced Mosby to 12 months of home confinement, 100 hours of community service, and three years of supervised release.



Is this sentence an opportunity for redemption?

A relieved Mosby and her two daughters met with supporters after the hearing, as civil rights attorney Ben Crump led a chant of Justice for Marilyn in the background. After her daughters spoke, Mosby stepped to the microphone and began her comments by quoting Bible scripture about trusting God.



I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you, an emotional Mosby said. Thank you for the fight. Thank you to everyone who signed the petition (for a presidential pardon). Thank you for the federal public defender team that so eloquently advocated on my behalf.

We stood united for Marilyn Mosby, and now she can resume her life alongside her family. Thanks to everyone who used their voices to advocate for Marilyn! #JusticeForMarilynMosby pic.twitter.com/2zn4bUEBbb  Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) May 24, 2024

Mosby, who has maintained her innocence, was indicted in January 2022 on perjury and mortgage fraud charges. Authorities held separate trials on allegations that she lied about a COVID-19 financial hardship to access restricted retirement funds to purchase two vacation homes in Florida. Prosecutors said she then lied on loan paperwork to obtain a better rate.



At the sentencing hearing, the judge suggested that the federal prosecutor was overzealous in calling for a 20-month prison sentence because there was no victim and Mosby didnt steal from tax-payer funds.



Crump told the judge that it would be a grave injustice to imprison Mosby for a victimless minor white-collar crime. He suggested that prosecutors like her are targeted for pursuing equality in the criminal justice system. The prosecution of Marilyn Mosby seems intended to send a chilling message to our progressive prosecutors, Crump added.



Mosby was ahead of her generation of a big-city reform-minded prosecutor, leading a wave of other progressives like Kim Foxx in Chicago, according to Slates Joel Anderson. She borrowed a page from Vice President Kamala Harris service as San Francisco district attorney and promoted, among other policies, a diversionary program for first-time nonviolent offenders and a community prosecution model.



Mosbys fight hasnt ended with the judges sentence. She plans to appeal her conviction and has applied to President Biden for a presidential pardon.



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Wanted for hire: Georgia game wardens in short supply as vacation season kicks off

With the traditional summer vacation season getting underway, Georgia continues to suffer from a chronic shortage of game wardens to serve its 2 million hunters and 600,000 to 700,000 anglers.

The state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) boasted 250 game wardens back in 2000. But a series of budget cuts had dropped that workforce as low as 181 in fiscal 2017 before it rebounded to 234 in the fiscal 2025 budget that takes effect July 1.

Were still not up to where we were 24 years ago, said Col. Mike England, director of the DNRs Law Enforcement Division. How many people are in Georgia in 2000, and how many do we have now?

The DNR isnt alone when it comes to workforce shortages. The $36.1 billion state budget the General Assembly adopted in March includes $3,000 pay raises for workers in state agencies suffering high turnover rates on top of the 4% cost-of-living increases most state and university system employees are getting.

While game wardens are among the workforce groups that will qualify for those additional raises, the increases also are going to a wide range of employees including state troopers and child welfare workers.

But England said game wardens face more difficult work schedules than their colleagues, which contributes to high turnover rates.

We dont work shifts, he said. Game wardens are on call 24 hours a day.

Because hunters and anglers tend to pursue their hobbies on weekends, game wardens are only off duty one weekend per month, England said.

Our officers cant go home and drink a beer because they may be on call, he said. They get tired of the schedule.

Mike Worley, president and CEO of the Georgia Wildlife Federation, said the shortage of game wardens has not affected the agencys ability to process applications for hunting and fishing licenses in a timely manner.

Our technology has helped us a lot, he said. There is really not a backlog for hunting and fishing licenses. Its really about the enforcement.

Worley said the shortage encourages law breakers to engage in such criminal activities as bringing deer into Georgia that might carry disease or smuggling turtles and other reptiles out of the state for sale on the black market.

When I run into a game warden in the field, I find them very courteous, thoughtful, and respectful, he said. (But) how often are you checked by one of these officers? Its not often. ... There are folks who will roll the dice and take their chances because we dont have enough of them.

The DNRs budget for the coming fiscal year includes $577,000 to hire six additional game wardens. England said that wont do more than put a dent in the workforce shortage.

All were doing is chipping away a little at a time, he said.

With games wardens working such long hours because theyre spread so thin, England said it has taken a special type of person to stick with the job.

Our people are very dedicated, he said. They love their job. Those who dont move on.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  If you or your child have plans to attend college in the near future, you probably have a good idea of how headache-inducing the revamped FAFSA form has been.

Technical glitches and processing issues have left many prospective students worrying their school acceptance deadlines will come before they find out how much federal assistance theyll be able to get.

In a call with reporters Thursday, Sen. Mark Warner (D) compared the new online FAFSA form, which has been in the works for four years, to the 2013 roll-out of the Affordable Care Act website. That site, Healthcare.gov, was plagued by crashes that prevented many people from signing up for health insurance when it initially launched.

Warner explained that the new form was created by a bill passed in 2020. The intentions behind it were to narrow the 100-question document down to just 13, and to make an additional 600,000 people eligible for Pell grants.

The problem was  and you talk about shades of Obamacare  the rollout was delayed literally for months on end, he said. And then when it was rolled out, there were technical glitches. It begs the question [of] why the federal government cant do big I.T. projects on-time, on-budget or roll them out efficiently.  Weve seen this movie before.

Warner met with a group of Virginia high school seniors Monday to discuss how theyre being affected. He said the issue is hitting first-generation students  which he was  the hardest.

They were running into the problem where they may have been accepted at a few schools, he said, but didnt have how much student assistance they were going to get. So how do they make a decision?

Warner said hed also met with Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, who told him the processing times had been brought down from weeks to just one to three days.

Theres still going to be some disruption, he said. Theres still going to be kids that probably will have to take a gap year because they didnt have their other financial forms. I encouraged all the students to hang in there, still fill out these forms.

Warner said there will probably be elevated levels of student transfers in the years ahead, as the technical issues prevent many from being able to attend the school they prefer.

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The demonstration was held at the Phoenix Cinema, which was then surrounded by pro-Israel demonstrators - Sonja Horsman

The BBC has come under fire for describing a pro-Palestine protest outside a London cinema showing a film about the Oct 7 attacks as a vigil.

A demonstration was held at the Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley, north London, in response to the screening of a film about Hamass assault on Israel last year.

Supernova was being shown as part of the Seret International Film Festival, but activists vandalised one of Londons oldest cinemas after writing say no to artwashing in red paint on the front of the building.

The pro-Palestine activists claimed that the documentary was part of an effort to justify the Israeli Governments military response in Gaza.

They had allegedly planned to protest at the venue to disrupt further viewings of the film.

However, the cinema was then surrounded by pro-Israel demonstrators, who came to support the venue against anti-Semites.

A BBC London report on the events stated: Pro-Israel supporters celebrated tonight after chasing away pro-Palestinian protesters who were holding a vigil outside the Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley.

Footage showed a crowd of Israel supporters holding flags and signs while cheering and dancing.

The broadcast was met with criticism online from those who said the BBC had shown horrendous bias in its coverage.

Activists vandalised one of London's oldest cinemas after writing 'say no to artwashing' in red paint on the front of the building - Twitter

Nicole Lampert, a journalist, wrote: Could BBC News have got this more wrong? Every day I am more and more furious about their horrendous bias.

Pro-Palestine supporters werent trying to hold a vigil.

They were trying to stop people seeing a film about the massacre of the Nova festival. They had earlier daubed the cinema in blood-red paint and called the documentary artwashing.

Jews and allies showed them enough is enough: we are mourning but our spirit and love of life cannot be dimmed.

Laura Cellier, who hosts Middle East Now on the Tel Aviv-based television channel i24News, posted on X, formerly Twitter: A vigil? They came to intimidate people. They were trying to stop people from seeing a film about Hamas atrocities. What is wrong with the BBC?

A message distributed to the activists before the demonstration, that was also posted online, referred to the screening as artwashing and said: Join us outside Phoenix cinema in protest of the Israeli Government-sponsored film festival, Seret.

Bring noise. Drums, bells, pots and pans, whistles, rice bottles.

A BBC London report on the events stated: 'Pro-Israel supporters celebrated ... after chasing away pro-Palestinian protesters who were holding a vigil' - Sonja Horsman

Another said: This is an utterly disgraceful report. There was no vigil  what kind of vigil asks that people bring drums, whistles and anything else to make a noise to disrupt a film?

A fundraiser has been set up to support the cinema, which was built in 1910, in the aftermath of the vandalism, with more than 1,500 donated so far.

The film directors Ken Loach and Mike Leigh have resigned as patrons of the Phoenix Cinema in protest over the venue hosting the film festival, according to The Guardian.

BBC, the Metropolitan Police, Phoenix Cinema and Seret were all contacted for comment.

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Climate activist stormed French asset manager Amundi's Paris headquarters to protest its investment in TotalEnergies - Thibault Camus

Security guards resorted to spraying climate activists with a hose as shareholder meetings of TotalEnergies and one of its major investors descended into chaos.

Greenpeace activists climbed a building close to TotalEnergies Paris headquarters on Friday and unveiled a large picture of chief executive Patrick Pouyanne under the heading Wanted.

Others stormed the offices of asset manager Amundi in the French capital to protest its investment in the oil and gas giant.

Videos posted on social media show activists inside the Amundi offices, which had been splattered with red paint. Many were wearing white hazmat suits.

Security guards responded by dousing the protesters with a water hose before attempting to drag some back out on the street.

Les militants ecologistes ont reussi a penetrer dans la Tour d'#Amundi, premier actionnaire de #Total.



La securite utilise une lance a eau pour tenter de les evacuer.#LiquidationTotal #TotalEnergies pic.twitter.com/2i0IqdUUFJ  Luc Auffret (@LucAuffret) May 24, 2024

The chaotic scenes, which came ahead of annual general meetings at both companies, mark the latest in a series of protests by climate groups against ongoing investment in the oil and gas industry.

Totals shareholders are due to vote this afternoon on whether to approve the companys progress on its sustainability and climate goals for 2030.

They will also vote to approve the re-election of Mr Pouyanne as chairman and chief executive for another three-year term.

Some investors have argued that the re-election should be opposed in protest against what they view as insufficient progress in the green energy transition.

Protesters unveiled a wanted poster bearing the portrait of TotalEnergies boss Patrick Pouyanne - STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN / AFP

Total had already put up barriers around its offices in the La Defense financial district of Paris, while staff were told to work from home on Friday.

A spokesman said the company fully respects the right to protest and freedom of expression.

Meanwhile, Extinction Rebellion protesters targeted Armundis headquarters in the south of Paris. The company said they resorted to violence against property and people.

Armundi holds a stake of roughly 9.5pc in TotalEnergies, both in direct holdings and indirectly through managing the shares owned by Total employees.

It comes after climate protesters this week stormed Shells annual general meeting in London, forcing security to step in to protect board members.

The meeting was delayed as activists chanted Shell kills and Shut down Shell. Shareholders ultimately rejected a climate resolution tabled by an activist group.

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We are here together to represent a demonstration to demand a meeting with the Board of Governors and President [Kimberly Andrews] Espy to request divestment [of companies] who directly aid Israeli occupation genocide in Gaza, said Zaynah Jadallah, a Wayne State University graduate, May 24, 2024 | Ken Coleman

Students at Wayne State University (WSU) in Detroit rallied on Friday and demanded a complete divestment from companies and institutions connected to the Israeli government amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

A protected area, which includes several tents and a water station, sits in the middle of the university campus along Gullen Mall. About 50 students were there Friday morning.

Similar pro-Palestinian encampments had been carried out at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan State University and colleges across the country during the spring. Police cleared out the U of M site this week.

Fighting in Gaza broke out on Oct. 7, after the Islamic militant organization Hamas attacked the southern portion of Israel.

We are here together to represent a demonstration to demand a meeting with the Board of Governors and President [Kimberly Andrews] Espy to request divestment [of companies] who directly aid Israeli occupation genocide in Gaza, said Zaynah Jadallah, a Wayne State University graduate.

WSU protestors have named Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics as businesses with ties to the Israeli government.

A small encampment of pro-Palestinian protestors was set up on our campus, said Matt Lockwood, WSU spokesman. It is an evolving situation, with public safety on site to ensure that it is peaceful, safe and non-disruptive to our campus operations.

The post Wayne State students set up pro-Palestinian encampment appeared first on Michigan Advance.
WINDHOEK, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Namibia has secured over 100 million U.S. dollars in financing to support the construction of a 40-MW biomass power station.

The southern African nation on Friday signed a loan agreement, an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract, and other key documents, including one on wood chip fuel supply, paving the way for the project's implementation.

"This project will be one of the answers to the long-awaited realization of a baseload power station in Namibia," said Kahenge Haulofu, managing director of NamPower, the national electricity utility.

The Otjikoto Biomass Power Station will enable NamPower to cost-effectively provide baseload electricity, and will contribute to the expansion of power generation for Namibia, he said.

According to Haulofu, the French Development Agency has provided a loan of up to 100 million euros (about 108 million U.S. dollars) for the construction of the power station, the Mitigation Action Facility is contributing a grant of 25 million euros, and the French Fund for Global Environment is offering 3 million euros for environmental research and extending project benefits to vulnerable communities.

The biomass power plant is expected to reduce Namibia's reliance on imported electricity by providing a stable and cost-effective baseload power source. It will also significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions by replacing high-emission electricity imports and integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind, he said.

The project also aims to tackle Namibia's severe bush encroachment issue, which affects over 26 million hectares of farmland and results in billions of dollars in economic losses.

"Effective countermeasures through sustainable bush thinning programs can help preserve biodiversity, restore savannahs, and create massive economic opportunities," Haulofu said.

He said the Otjikoto Biomass Power Station, once commissioned, will support and preserve power quality in Namibia's electricity grid by providing ancillary services such as synchronizing torque, grid inertia, and reactive power control. 
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  A Kingsport man was charged with aggravated assault after hitting multiple vehicles and an occupied home with a truck in Gray on Thursday, police report.

The Washington County, Tennessee Sheriffs Office reports deputies responded to Edgewood Drive in Gray regarding an alleged domestic disturbance.

Upon arrival, deputies found that a man, identified by police as Brandon Lovett, 40, intentionally drove into two unoccupied vehicles and a house at the address, according to the WCSO.

Woman arrested after pursuit, standoff that shut down I-81 in Kingsport

Witnesses reportedly told police Lovett arrived at the home in a large pickup truck and began revving his engine. Lovett was previously restrained as part of an order of protection from having contact with three occupants inside the home, including two juveniles, the report stated.

Lovett then began using the truck to hit the vehicles in the driveway and the house, the WCSO reported. He allegedly fled the scene once the truck became disabled.

Lovett was located on foot by deputies shortly after. He allegedly attempted to flee from deputies but was apprehended.

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Crime Watch

The vehicles and house received major damage during the incident. No injuries were reported.

Lovett was charged with the following:

Aggravated assault (four counts)

Reckless endangerment involving a deadly weapon (four counts)

Violating an order of protection (three counts)

Felony vandalism (three counts)

Driving under the influence

He was taken to the Washington County Detention Center. As of Friday, Lovett is being held without bond pending a hearing.

The WCSO stated the investigation remains ongoing and more charges will likely be added.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Leaders behind WeGo Public Transit are addressing safety concerns after two recent incidents in Nashville, one of them happening on a bus.

On Thursday, May 23, top leaders of the transit system, including CEO Steve Bland, called a press conference and met to discuss safety measures in place and to reassure passengers that riding the bus is safe. Nashville Mayor Freddie OConnell wants voters to support a sales tax increase this November for a new transit plan, and a big part of that is bus service.

SEE ALSO: Woman arrested for allegedly stabbing WeGo bus driver

The meeting comes after a bus operator was attacked by a person with a knife on Monday, May 20. That incident follows another incident last week on Thursday, May 16 where two people got into an argument and one of them ended up shot and injured on the steps of WeGo Central.

Im a regular rider on the 56 Gallatin Pike bus, the route on which this incident occurred, said WeGo CEO Steve Bland. I know if anything occurs  doesnt have to be a security incident; it could be something in the neighborhood  that operator can be in instant communication with base that can be in instant communication with emergency responders.

Highly unusual: WeGo officials address security after 2 violent crimes within 4 days

According to the numbers presented at Thursdays meeting, WeGo has increased spending on

contracted security services from 1.2 to 2.4 million from 2017 to 2024 and expect to invest more. Each bus is also outfitted with three to 16 cameras and there are plans to give them real-time capabilities so emergency responses can be quicker.

Despite the recent incidents, News 2 spoke with some riders who said they are not deterred from taking the bus.

Man claims self defense after WeGo bus station shooting

Its times when people do get on the bus, and you can tell that theyre not in their right mind and they do do crazy things said Mark Naice, who rides the bus daily. Things can happen anywhere. You could be anywhere in public, and something can happen. I dont really think the bus is something people should be concerned about. People are going to act the way they act anywhere you go.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County

WeGo gives around 30,000 rides each day and WeGo Central sees roughly 15,000 visitors daily.

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The active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy may help reduce the risk of kidney failure in those with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Researchers across 28 countries randomly assigned patients with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease to receive a weekly injection of 1 milligram of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, or a placebo. Roughly 3,500 patients participated in the study, with half receiving semaglutide and the other half a placebo.

The study, which began in 2019, was funded by Novo Nordisk, which manufactures semaglutide.

In follow-ups among participants, the risk of a kidney disease events was found to be 24 percent lower in the semaglutide group than the placebo group.

Semaglutide reduced the risk of clinically important kidney outcomes and death from cardiovascular causes in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, researchers concluded.

Novo Nordisk announced in October it was halting its trial on kidney outcomes early due to already meeting certain pre-specified criteria.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease, with 1 in 3 diabetics having the condition. About 12 percent of the U.S. population is estimated to have diabetes.

In the U.S., semaglutide is approved for treating Type 2 diabetes and obesity and for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events. The latter is the most recent, with federal regulators granting the approval based on the results of a multinational study also funded by Novo Nordisk earlier this year.

Other GLP-1 agonists similar to Ozempic are similarly being tested to see if they may be able to treat conditions other than diabetes and obesity. Tirzepatide, sold under the name Mounjaro by Eli Lilly, is currently being studied for any potential benefits in treating chronic kidney disease in patients with obesity with or without Type 2 diabetes.

Previous studies have indicated GLP-1 agonists may be able to help with other conditions like addiction and reducing the risk of dementia.

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They went to heaven together: Christian missionary couple from U.S. killed by gang in Haiti

This photo provided by Brad Searcy Photography shows Davy and Natalie Lloyd. Three U.S. missionaries were killed in Haiti after being ambushed at the Port-au-Prince, officials with the mission organization said Friday, May 24, 2024. Two of the victims were a young married couple, Davy and Natalie Lloyd, according to a Facebook posting from Natalie Lloyd's father, Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker. The name of the third person killed wasn't immediately available. | Brad Searcy Photography

An American couple serving as missionaries in Haiti and another man were shot a killed by gang members on Thursday, family members said.

Davy and Natalie Lloyd were attacked by gangs on Thursday night and were both killed, Natalie Lloyds father, Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker, said in a Facebook post.

They went to Heaven together. Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well. I have no other words for now.

The couple was serving with an Oklahoma-based nonprofit organization Missions in Haiti. A Facebook post from the organization said the couple was leaving a church building when they were ambushed by a gang of 3 trucks full of guys. The Associated Press reported the third victim was a Haitian who as a local worker with Missions in Haiti.

Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson expressed his deepest condolences for the couples death and called it, absolutely heartbreaking news, in a post shared on X.

A statement from the White House on Friday said they were aware of the reported deaths and urged deployment of a United Nations Security Council-approved international police force to the region, per CNN.

We are aware of the reports of the deaths of U.S. citizens in Haiti. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief, a national security spokesperson told CNN. The security situation in Haiti cannot wait. That is why yesterday, President Biden reiterated our commitment to support the expedited the deployment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission to bolster the Haitian National Polices capabilities to protect civilians, restore the rule of law, and pave the way to democratic governance.

Earlier this week, Missions in Haiti expressed optimism over reduced gang activity.

Things have been calmer over the past 2 weeks, the organization wrote on Facebook. Some gangs are realizing their rule is about to come to an end...The Haitian people are encouraged that Gang Rule could be ending soon. We are praying this will happen and the sooner the better.
Support Haiti

Florida has the largest population of Haitians in the United States; more than 300,000 call South Florida home. As our loved ones in Haiti are terrorized by gangs, face extreme food insecurity and attempt perilous journeys to save themselves, we are glued to our phones waiting for a message confirming the latest horror, or prayerfully, a message letting us know that our family and friends have made it through the week despite all the gunfire around them.

Haiti does not manufacture guns and there is a ban on importing them. Yet, the gangs out-arm the police.

Where are the guns coming from?

From the United States, where nearly half of the worlds civilian guns are found. They come from Miami, smuggled through our ports to Haiti. The military-style rifles, pistols and shotguns used to terrorize civilians and uphold a destabilized Haitian government is an American-made problem. Its also a Miami problem.

May is Haitian Heritage Month and rightfully highlights our beautiful culture, history and country. Haiti was the first nation to abolish slavery and the first free Black republic in the world. This is to be celebrated, but dont let the celebrations act as cover for remaining silent. Dont hand out proclamations and recite speeches sprinkled with English-accented kreyol and then move on as if we are not hurting, as if our people are not dying daily.

Miamis Haitian-led social service agencies are providing much needed direct services to new arrivals and to our long-time neighbors who need a place to process whats going on back home. Haitian journalists, at publications like Ayibopost, are doing the important work of getting us on-the-ground and accurate reporting.

The atrocities must be acknowledged. There must be accountability for the role our government has played and continues to do. We will not be silent.

Santra Denis,

executive director,

Miami Workers Center,

Miami

Judges rule

How is it possible that Miami citizens must continuously seek the help of the courts to force their elected leaders to follow the law, as in the illegal spot rezoning of Mercy Hospital, and just last week, for the insidious attempt at the gerrymandering of the citys five voting districts?

Harry E. Gottlieb,

Coconut Grove

Floridas hope

Re: the annual Miami Herald/el Nuevo Herald Silver Knight Award winners. As always, I am impressed by the passion and dedication (not to mention intelligence) these high school students demonstrate, in addition to their probably rigorous academic demands.

I have the selfish hope that no matter where they are headed for college, they will return to their South Florida home counties because many of them will surely continue on the paths of community service and academic achievement.

Kudos to them and the unnamed parents, teachers and other mentors on whose shoulders most, if not all of them, surely stand.

L. Gabriel Bach,

Key Biscayne

Business supporter

I own a thriving small business and I am grateful to U. S. Sen. Rick Scott for his unwavering support. This month, I was honored to join his Small Businesses for Rick Scott coalition. He has consistently emphasized that small businesses are the backbone of the economy.

Since his tenure as governor, Scott has been committed to doing everything possible to help Florida businesses succeed and create jobs. Whether its cutting taxes, reducing regulations, or fighting against job-killing legislation, we know he has our backs. His senate office is always helpful and informative whenever my business needs assistance from the federal government.

I am proud to own a business in a state where our elected leaders truly care about helping us succeed. I thank Scott for all he does for Florida businesses.

P.J. Mitchell,

attorney,

Mitchell and West,

Miami

Well said!

I salute Olga Granda for her courageous support of Amendment 4 in her May 22 op-ed, I am Catholic but Im fighting for abortion rights. I too, am a Catholic who supports Amendment 4.

Religious institutions are free to teach truth as they see it. However, in a democracy, it is imperative that we defend the separation of church and state. The extreme bans we are seeing across the country are threatening the lives of women and the careers of doctors.

I needed care after a much-wanted pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. Having a prompt dilation and curettage allowed me to give birth to three healthy children. Two of my friends suffered life-threatening ectopic pregnancies and survived because of prompt medical attention. Women are dying or suffering irreversible health consequences from these conditions.

I encourage every woman  and every man who loves and respects the women in their lives  to vote Yes on 4.

Trust women and their doctors to make decisions that only they have the right to make. White-haired old men in legislatures and pulpits have no business denying this care. We cannot return to the nightmare years of coat hangers and back alley quacks.

Kathleen Doyle,

Miami Springs

Border on fire

President Joe Biden has claimed he cannot secure the border without the help of Congress. That is like a firefighter claiming they cannot use rain water in an emergency to put out a fire because its not in the manual.

By undoing former President Trumps executive actions on the border, Biden broke it. He can fix it  overnight  but he refuses to take action. He should be directly held accountable for all of the immigrant-related crime that has resulted nationwide.

Charles E. Nanney,

Pembroke Pines

Zieglers hypocrisy

Re: the May 21 Miami Herald online editorial, New sordid details in Zieglers Florida case show hypocrisy of parental rights zealots. Imagine the uproar if a young, Black teenager secretly took pictures of women in various bars to scout possible sexual partners?

Bridget Ziegler has pushed an agenda based on, according to her, high moral standards and a moral compass. However, her behavior calls into question not only that compass but also how she can continue to advocate to protect our youth. We must call for her resignation or she should resign immediately in the interest of furthering student protection.

Perceptions are important. The perception Zieglers behavior creates is abhorrent and cannot be silently condoned.

R. Clinton Miner,

Tampa

Badly misinformed

Sen. Rick Scott is running ads espousing, Every country that goes socialist destroys freedom and makes people poor. To support this, he uses black-and-white videos of people protesting, wearing COVID-19 masks, while the word Socialism floats across the screen.

Scott wants us to believe that our schools are filled with radical socialist teachers who are instructing their children not just in math and English, but also that men can have babies and turn into women. He calls this socialism and a threat to his values.

As a former teacher, I know that MAGA ideas like this are used to manipulate uninformed voters into believing that such dangerous behaviors are rife in Florida schools. Scott also seems confused about socialism vs. fascism, concepts explained in the classroom, along with democracy. Florida has a shortage of more than 5,000 teachers. More will leave if he continues to spread misinformation.

Scotts former company was involved in defrauding Medicare, according to federal investigators. I guess he can rationalize this conduct because he believes Medicare and Social Security are socialist programs that should be eliminated. He should not depend on votes from teachers who already have a hard enough time working with baseless legislation.

L. L. Brandt,

Miami

Spies among us

Americans should be appalled by the May 19 CBS 60 Minutes report regarding the Cuban spy apparatus, which detailed the effectiveness of Cubas spy craft over several decades, placing our national security at risk.

The system routinely trades the information with our worst declared enemies, including North Korea, Iran and Russia. An FBI special agent said he is convinced that our government agencies have many more agents doing this covert work. Yet, some ask that Cuba be removed from the list of countries supporting terrorism.

Are they delusional? Are they spies?

This is the worst kind of terrorism.

Tony Bello,

Coral Gables
When Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk formed a coalition government in 2023 committed to making historic changes, he promised to improve the countrys track record on womens rights. Noticeably absent in the coalitions agreement, however, was any specific wording on access to abortion, one of the most controversial issues under the previous government.

The coalition parties are united in their opposition to the conservative Law and Justice Party, PiS, which led the government for eight years. PiS weakened Polands democracy by undermining the independence of the judiciary and placing restrictions on the media, and it strained its relationship with the European Union. PiS also ushered in some of the strictest abortion laws in Europe, with the help of hand-picked judges from Polands Constitutional Tribunal.

Polands three main coalition partners  the Civic Coalition, the Third Way and The Left  all want to soften Polands near-ban on abortion. Yet they disagree on how this should happen and how far the changes should go, meaning the government is struggling to deliver on its campaign promises.

As a scholar of civil society in central Europe, I have followed abortion debates in Poland for years. Poles views of abortion are shaped by religious, historical, political and cultural factors that make legislative changes challenging, despite the fact that most Poles favor some change in the current laws.

From strict to stricter

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Polands Constitutional Tribunal made a significant change in Polands already strict abortion laws, prompting massive protests. The court removed the right to abortions because of birth defects, which had accounted for more than 90% of all abortions.

Since January 2021, abortion has been allowed only in cases of rape, incest or when a mothers health is in danger. Under these laws, which also allowed the former government to arrest people for abortion-related activities, about half a dozen women experiencing pregnancy complications have died after being denied abortions.

A demonstrator holds a coat hanger, a symbol of self-induced abortion, on Nov. 18, 2020, during a protest against abortion restrictions. AP Photo/Agata Grzybowska

In January 2024, the new government reversed PiS legislation from 2017 that required women to obtain a doctors prescription for over-the-counter emergency contraception, often called the morning-after pill. However, Polish President Andrzej Duda, an ally of PiS, vetoed the bill.

Church and culture

Sixty percent of the Polish population thinks abortion should be legal, according to a 2022 global survey by Ipsos. Less than 25%, however, are in favor of abortion being legal without any restrictions.

Those who oppose abortion are a vocal and well-organized group. On April 14, 2024, tens of thousands of people joined a National March for Life through Warsaw. Organizers estimated that at least 50,000 people participated, claiming that it was the largest Polish anti-abortion gathering in the 21st century.

Abortion opponents are supported by the Catholic Church, which remains a powerful institution in Poland despite declining church attendance. In 1992, weekly church attendance was about 70%; by 2021, it had decreased to 43%. Just a year later, another study found that only 30% of Polish Catholics regularly attend Sunday Mass.

Anti-abortion demonstrators in Warsaw march in April 2024 against the new governments steps toward liberalizing Polands strict law. AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski

At the same time, almost 70% of Poles say that God plays an important role in their life. Especially in smaller cities and rural areas, social and family activities tend to revolve around the church and religious holidays.

The Catholic Churchs close relationship with Polish national identity stems from the role it has played in the countrys history. Throughout the 19th century, when Polish lands were divided by its stronger neighbors, the Catholic faith allowed Poles to maintain their language and traditions. When Poland reemerged on the map after World War I, the church was the basis for unity as leaders struggled to create political, economic and social institutions.

During the communist period of 1947 to 1989, the church was a symbol of Polish independence in the face of Soviet attempts to impose atheist beliefs within its sphere of influence. Political analysts such as George Weigel maintain that the Catholic Church and Pope John Paul II, a native of Poland, were important to shaping anti-communist movements throughout the Soviet bloc.

Abortion rights activists react after Polands Parliament voted on April 12, 2024, to continue work on proposals to liberalize Polands strict abortion law. AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski

Splintered support

This landscape of views on abortion and faith and Polands unique history explains why political support for various proposals is so fragmented.

Two of the governments coalition parties, the Civic Coalition and the Left, favor abortion without restrictions until 12 weeks. The Third Way, itself a coalition of center-right parties, prefers to simply restore the right to abortion in the case of birth defects.

Third Way politicians claim that this compromise legislation has the support of many groups and so is more likely to be approved. The group has also called for a national referendum about whether to further loosen abortion restrictions. This proposal reflects the Third Ways main political goal: to distinguish itself as an alternative to polarization and deadlock.

Regardless of which proposal the Legislature supports, Duda may veto the legislation. Conservative legislators are also well positioned to delay any reforms. Recently, the leader of PiS indicated that he is now in favor of softening the near-ban on abortion, but only if there is a change in Polands constitution  a lengthy process that is unlikely to receive enough support.

Almost all European countries have legalized abortion, although some maintain medical or regulatory procedures such as short wait times or permission from a parent or guardian. If this trend is any indication, Poland will indeed liberalize its abortion laws  and given the countrys national health care system, procedures will likely be paid for by the state. It will take time, however, and the battles will continue to be hard-fought.

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: Patrice McMahon, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Read more:



Patrice McMahon is affiliated with University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the Council on Foreign Relations. She receives funding from the National Endowment for Humanities.
(Bloomberg) -- Demonstrations are expected across Taiwan Friday in protest against a push by opposition lawmakers to pass a bill that would expand their powers and limit new President Lai Ching-tes ability to govern in the most dangerous flashpoint in US-China ties.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The changes would tighten parliaments oversight of Lais government by expanding lawmakers investigative abilities to summon people from a range of backgrounds, including the president, to answer their questions. Individuals could be subject to fines and criminal punishment if they are found in contempt of the legislature.

Lais Democratic Progressive Party has vowed to fight the proposed changes, saying they aim to undermine the constitution and disrupt government. The opposition Kuomintang, Chinas preferred negotiating partner in the chipmaking hub, said the ruling party is standing in the way of badly needed reforms.

If the DPP is right, the amendments could become a tool for the opposition to tie Lais government down in battles with the legislature during his four years in office. It could also impair his ability to enact policies, such as upgrading the islands military as the US has suggested.

If passed, the changes to the law would likely to go into effect soon given the KMT-led opposition controls the legislature. Outmanned, the DPP has resorted to other measures to block the bills passage, sparking tussles between lawmakers over the past week and likely leading to more pushing and shoving on the floor of the parliament once debate resumes Friday.

What is the opposition doing and why?

The opposition says that reform is needed to create a better balance of power between the president and the legislature. It also says the changes are in line with previous proposals by the DPP.

The KMT and its opposition partner, the Taiwan Peoples Party, say the bill would create more transparency and make the government more accountable. Opposition lawmakers say that in the past officials have deliberately dodged their questions during regular appearances in the legislature, falling short in their duty to explain their actions and policies.

The opposition wants the legislature to have the power to require government officials, the military, private entities and private individuals to provide witness testimony and documents to assist in probes. Individuals or entities that dont comply could be repeatedly fined as much as NT$100,000 ($3,100). Officials who refuse to answer questions could face penalties of as much as NT$200,000, and people found to have lied could face fines or up to a year in prison.

The law would also require the president to report to the chamber regularly and answer questions, something the opposition says will strengthen oversight of the islands top leader.

Why is the ruling party unhappy with that?

The DPP and its supporters say the changes to the law amount to legislative overreach. They say the bill has been rushed though committees and their feedback ignored, an accusation the opposition denies.

One of the partys chief concerns is that the bill could be weaponized to disrupt Lais government. The expansion of the legislatures investigative powers opens the possibility of a single lawmaker being able to request all manner of sensitive or confidential information about the governments operations, including military matters, according to the DPP.

That, combined with the possibility of jail time for officials found to have misled the legislature, could bog down the government in constant probes and possibly legal cases. Critics also worry it greatly increases the risk of confidential information being leaked.

Will this affect Taiwans relations with China?

Taiwans constitution dictates that cross-strait relations and national defense are the presidents responsibilities. The ability to question and request information from the president under threat of jail time for not answering could give the legislature greater oversight of relations with China. The opponents of the bill says this would infringe upon the presidents ability to manage cross-strait relations and is therefore unconstitutional.

How could the president respond to the law?

He could ask the 15 justices of the Constitutional Court to rule on the constitutionality of the law. If the court declares the law unconstitutional, it would immediately become invalid. However, Lai cant ask the court to intervene until the legislation formally becomes law. The court has a history of moving slowly, meaning Lais government would probably start facing probes in the legislature before the court is able to act.

He could also stall. Once passed, the legislature will send the law to the cabinet, which has the option to send it back to lawmakers to be reassessed in a process that could stretch to several weeks. Eventually, the cabinet will have to pass Lai the law to sign. He doesnt have a veto but Taiwan politics could still find itself in an unprecedented situation should he refuse to sign the legislation. In the event of such an impasse, the Constitutional Court would likely be asked to rule on what should happen next. It hasnt shied away from making difficult interpretations in the past, such as in 2017 when it ruled that laws must be changed to allow gay marriage.

Lai would also have the nuclear option: seeking to dissolve parliament. Under Taiwan law, DPP lawmakers could file a no-confidence motion against their own premier, relieving him of his duties. The outgoing premier can then turn around and ask the president to dismiss the legislature.

If Lai did this, the political costs would likely be astronomical. Not only would he be sacrificing his own premier, hed anger voters across the island for booting from office the lawmakers they elected just this past January.

What is the impact on markets?

Its rare for domestic political confrontations to make a ripple. The benchmark Taiex remained stable during the Sunflower Movement back in 2014, during which protesters opposing a trade deal with China stormed and occupied parliament for several weeks during those demonstrations.

So far, this weeks protests have done little to stir investor concerns: the stock market hit new record highs in the two days following Tuesdays initial protests, and the Taiwan dollars moves have been muted.

Still, any escalation of tensions could change things. Investors could also get worried if opposition legislators start demanding a bigger say in setting electricity prices  an issue thats usually handled by the presidents ministers.

--With assistance from Miaojung Lin.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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Odds are youve never heard of the mudsill theory of labor, but everybody in this country really should learn about it. It explains a whole spectrum of Republican behavior that otherwise seems baffling and self-defeating. For example:



The past seven years have seen a near-fivefold increase in documented child labor violations by employers. States have responded to this alarming trend in two ways: Democratic-controlled states are putting more teeth into their laws and upping enforcement; Republican-controlled states are loosening their laws and cutting back on enforcement so children can drop out of school and go to work.

So far, three blue states (and two red ones) have made it harder for employers to exploit child labor, while eight red states have made it easier for children to get trapped in a cycle of work that often ends their educational progress and consigns them to a lifetime of manual labor. Eight other Republican-controlled states are currently considering legislation to weaken child labor laws, while 13 mostly Democratic-controlled states are in the process of tightening their restrictions.

Meanwhile, Republican-controlled states are waging war against universal quality public education for their children. The first shots were fired in efforts to strip schools of books and curricula referencing Americas history of slavery, Jim Crow, Native American genocide, and brutality against the queer community. Those were followed by often violent, threat-filled appearances at school board meetings by militia members and other white supremacists, calling out teachers and school administrators for woke indoctrination.

Most recently, multiple red states moved to kneecap public schools by removing their funding and reallocating it to families who can afford private academies, religious schools, and home schooling. Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Utah, and West Virginia have all instituted universal or near-universal school voucher programs in the past few years.

These programs, advocated by right-wing billionaires, are designed to ghettoize red state public schools by subsidizing middle- and upper-class childrens tuition while leaving poorer studentswho cant afford the costs beyond the vouchersstuck in defunded and thus failing public schools. Tennessee, Missouri, Louisiana, Nebraska, and Alabama have put into place or are about to institute voucher programs that go nearly as far.

Finally, Republican-controlled states go out of their way to make it difficult for workers to unionize or for existing unions to succeed and expand. The immediate result of this right to work for less mentality and activity is that social mobilitythe ability of a person to move from being the working poor into the middle class, or from the middle class into the upper middle classis largely frozen.

My family is probably typical of American social mobility. My grandfather was a poor immigrant from Norway who made furniture. My father worked at a tool and die shop, a good union job. Ive done much better than my father, just like he did much better than his father. And my son, with a masters degree and his own business, will do better than I have.

Social mobility in America today, however, is lower than in any other developed country, a huge change since the 19501980 decades before the Reagan revolution, when we led the world in social mobility. Most American children today are locked into the social and economic class of their parents; the opportunity for advancement that union jobs used to provide is half of what it was when Reagan became president.

Maryland, Minnesota, Delaware, Vermont, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Montana, and Utah have the highest social and economic mobility in the United States; only Utah is a right to work for less state, and all the rest welcome unions.

Oklahoma, South Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Texasall right to work for less statesare the states where workers stuck in poverty are most likely to be frozen in the social and economic class into which they were born.

If you notice a pattern, youre right: Young people are far more likely to exceed their parents economic accomplishments in blue states than in red states, and have been since Reagan killed the union movement and defunded public education in the 1980s.

So what does all this have to do with mudsills, the first layer of wood put down on top of a homes concrete or stone foundation to support the rest of the house? And how and why did todays GOP adopt the mudsill theory?

For that, we must step into the Wayback Machine.

On March 4, 1858, slave plantation owner and South Carolina Senator James Henry Hammond rose to speak before his peers in the U.S. Senate. At the time, his speech wasnt noted as exceptional, but over the following year it was published in the newspapers and caught the imagination of the plantation owners and scientific racists of the South; it was soon the talk of the nation.

Hammond asserted that for a society to function smoothly, it must have a foundational class of people who, like the way a mudsill stabilizes the house that rests atop it, bear the difficult manual labor from which almost all wealth is derived. In all social systems there must be a class to do the menial duties, Hammond proclaimed, to perform the drudgery of life. Hammond claimed that every society throughout history rested on a mudsill class; that even Jesus advocated this when he said, The poor you will always have with you.

To stabilize society, he additionally argued, such a group of people must be locked rigidly into their mudsill class.

Hammonds mudsill theory was quickly embraced by the Southern plantation owners as well as many Northern industrialists and newspaper owners, although progressive politicians and spokesmen for labor were outraged, particularly at the idea that social mobility must be denied to the laboring class.

President Abraham Lincoln jumped into the debate with a speech on September 30, 1859, in Milwaukee. At the time he was a lawyer in private practice and a fierce advocate for the right of social mobility for working-class white people. Speaking of the industrialists who employed child labor, opposed education, and used brutal methods to keep workers in line, he said: They further assume that whoever is once a hired laborer is fatally fixed in that condition for life; and thence again that his condition is as bad as or worse than that of a slave. This is the mud-sill theory.

Lincoln didnt find the argument persuasive; in fact, he was offended by it. As president, Lincoln followed up with his goal of promoting social mobility; he signed legislation creating over 70 land-grant colleges, including my mothers Michigan State University, where tuition was free or very affordable until the Reagan revolution.

These days, Republicans generally take Hammonds point of view, while todays Democrats embrace Lincolns perspective. This didnt happen by accident or in a vacuum. Russell Kirk was the twentieth centurys philosopher king of the mudsill theory, although he never used the phrase. As I laid out in detail in The Hidden History of American Oligarchy, Kirks 1951 book, The Conservative Mind, argues forcefully, like Hammond did, that society must have classes and orders to ensure stability.

Kirk argued in the 1950s that if the American middle classthen under half of Americansever grew too large and well paid, then such access to wealth would produce a social disaster. His followers warned that under such circumstances, minorities would forget their place in society, women would demand equality with men, and young people would no longer respect their elders.

The dire result, Kirk warned, would be social chaos, moral degeneracy, revolution, and the eventual collapse of American society.

While at first Kirk was mostly only quoted by cranks like Barry Goldwater and William F. Buckley Jr., when the 1960s hit and the civil rights movement was roiling Americas cities, women were demanding access to the workplace and equal pay, and young men were burning draft cards, Republican elders and influencers concluded Kirk was a prophet.

Something had to be done.

Ronald Reagan came into office with the mandate to save American society from collapse. To that end, he set out to reestablish a mudsill class in America by ending free college and gutting public schools, destroying the union movement, and weakening enforcement of child labor laws.

Thus todays Republicansfrom Sam Alito and Clarence Thomas to Mike Johnson, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Donald Trumpare finally close to fulfilling Hammonds and Reagans vision of an America built on mudsill labor (while ironically repudiating Americas first Republican president, Abraham Lincoln).

And now, as the late Paul Harvey would say, you know the rest of the story.
The Confucius Institute choir at the University of Zimbabwe sings a Chinese song during a China-Zimbabwe cultural exchange event in Goromonzi, a rural community in the East Mashonaland Province, Zimbabwe, on May 23, 2024. Chinese firm Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), together with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, held a cultural exchange event Thursday to mark Africa Day, which is commemorated annually on May 25. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara)

GOROMONZI, Zimbabwe, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Chinese firm Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), together with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, held a cultural exchange event Thursday to mark Africa Day, which is commemorated annually on May 25.

Guests were feted with various cultural performances from China and Zimbabwe, including Chinese martial arts, Zimbabwean traditional dance, music, and poetry, at the event in a school in Goromonzi, a rural community in the East Mashonaland Province.

Traditional leadership, local government representatives, Chinese and local PLZ staff, and local school children attended the event.

Sheila Zvakurumbira, acting district development officer in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, welcomed Chinese guests to the cultural exchange event, which showcased Zimbabwe's diverse cultural heritage.

"Today we were doing cultural exchange programs with the Chinese, and it is of paramount importance because it has strengthened the relationship between the Chinese and the Zimbabweans," she told Xinhua.

Zimbabweans are keen to learn Chinese culture and share key aspects of the local cultural heritage with their Chinese friends, Zvakurumbira said.

David Nkanka, a student from the University of Zimbabwe, said the event is a testament to the cordial Zimbabwe-China relations.

"Unity is a very important aspect, and through these performances, we have seen unity being enhanced between China and Zimbabwe," Nkanka told Xinhua.

School children had an opportunity to experience Chinese calligraphy, painting, and tea at the cultural event.

"Today was my first time drinking Chinese tea," said 16-year-old Belle Enesi, a high school student. "It was tasteful, and I was happy because that was the first time in my life."

Africa Day, a public holiday in Zimbabwe, is observed annually to celebrate the achievements of the Organization of African Unity, the predecessor of the African Union, from its creation on May 25, 1963.

PLZ, a subsidiary of China's Huayou Cobalt, has invested in social development programs in the Goromonzi area. 

A girl performs a traditional Zimbabwean dance during a China-Zimbabwe cultural exchange event in Goromonzi, a rural community in the East Mashonaland Province, Zimbabwe, on May 23, 2024. Chinese firm Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), together with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, held a cultural exchange event Thursday to mark Africa Day, which is commemorated annually on May 25. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara)

People in African attire perform a dance during a China-Zimbabwe cultural exchange event in Goromonzi, a rural community in the East Mashonaland Province, Zimbabwe, on May 23, 2024. Chinese firm Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), together with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, held a cultural exchange event Thursday to mark Africa Day, which is commemorated annually on May 25. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara)

People perform a Chinese dance during a China-Zimbabwe cultural exchange event in Goromonzi, a rural community in the East Mashonaland Province, Zimbabwe, on May 23, 2024. Chinese firm Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ), together with the Confucius Institute at the University of Zimbabwe, held a cultural exchange event Thursday to mark Africa Day, which is commemorated annually on May 25. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara)
Why Sac State seems determined to be a world divestment judge and juror in silence | Opinion

When Sacramento State President Luke Wood took the stage at last weekends commencement to send off his first class as students start their next chapter, he gave them a message about leadership.

The world is not led by the passive; its led by those who take on the mantle of leadership, and when there isnt a mantle, they build their own mantle because they refuse to settle, Wood said to the crowd of thousands of graduates in Golden 1 Center on May 20.

These are pretty rich words coming from the president who so far isnt leading in any public or transparent way to implement his new, socially responsible investment policy.

Weeks ago, in an attempt to get pro-Palestine protesters to stop a 10-day encampment, Sacramento State announced a policy that will ban direct investments in corporations and funds that profit from genocide, ethnic cleansing, and activities that violate fundamental human rights. But what do these words really mean? Wood and his leadership team so far arent saying.

Opinion

After weeks of reporting on the protest and the outcome, including a visit to the temporary encampment, its evident to me that this policy relies on vague language. If ever implemented, it would make the university an international judge and jury when deciding which companies it does business with.

It isnt showing leadership for Wood to be sidestepping the implications of what he has gotten the university into. His investment policys three categories of inhumanity are no joke. The university now must adhere to its own policy and investigate companies that invest in those that commit these outrageous acts.

How will Sac State determine divestments?

The university says it has no direct investments that violate this policy and will investigate whether indirect investments like mutual funds include companies that do. How did they make this initial determination?

Here are the questions I have asked Sacramento State that the university has yet to answer about genocide, ethnic cleansing and violations of fundamental human rights:

 Genocide: What definition of genocide is the university planning to apply? Specifically, what nations and groups are committing genocide now in the eyes of the university? Are either Israel or Hamas guilty of genocide?

 Ethnic cleansing: What is the universitys definition of ethnic cleansing? How does the university plan to identify who is committing ethnic cleansing? Are any nations or groups now committing ethnic cleansing according to the university?

 Violations of fundamental human rights: Please specify each and every human right that the university considers fundamental. How does the university plan to determine whether any nation or group is violating these fundamental human rights? Are any nations or groups now violating these rights according to the university?

While providing no answers, Sacramento State did inform me that it will be releasing guidance in the coming weeks about the new policy.

Out of the three categories, identifying the worlds fundamental human rights feels like the biggest question mark of all. You could write a list as long as the American River citing violations of fundamental human rights that the U.S. commits on a daily basis. Will the university divest from American companies that dont support a womans right to make decisions about her own body? Will they divest in countries and organizations that indirectly invest in CoreCivic, a for-profit prison company with a record of abusing Black and brown inmates?

Where are the CSU trustees on this?

One university alone cannot fix the problems of the world, particularly one that is part of a 23-university system. Sacramento States freelancing in investment policing comes off as arrogant and could prove to be an insurmountable task.

Where is the California State University Board of Trustees in all this? Dont they set policy? Shouldnt they be the ones to decide where system funds can be invested?

President Wood has picked a dangerous leadership test by jumping into the nations divestment debate. The toughest of subjects deserves the coolest of heads.

Meanwhile, we await the universitys guidelines.

If Wood and the university thought that ending the unrest would allow the university to fly under the radar, they miscalculated. Their leadership on divestment places them squarely in the hot seat. The longer the silence continues, the more this looks like a smoke and mirrors trick to get the student body back in order before finals.

Talk about leadership.
Why are U.S. flags being lowered to half-staff across Kansas?

TOPEKA (KSNT)  Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is ordering flags to fly at half-staff next week in honor of our nations military personnel.

Kelly announced in a press release on Friday, May 24 that flags are to fly at half-staff from sunup until noon on Monday, May 27 this year for Memorial Day. This is to honor those who have given their lives in service of the U.S. over the years.

The brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms represent the best of Kansas and our nation, Kelly said. On Memorial Day and every day, we owe them our deepest gratitude for their service.

President Joe Biden also issued an order on May 24 ahead of Memorial Day for flags to be lowered. In it, he requests all state governors to issue half-staff orders nationwide. The full proclamation can be found here.

This Memorial Day, we honor the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nations freedom, Biden said. We recommit to keeping our sacred obligation to their survivors, families, and caregivers. Together, we vow to honor their memories by carrying on their work to forge a more perfect Union.

Bomb squad called after Civil War cannon ball found in Overbrook

Memorial Day is described as an annual day of remembrance to honor everyone who has died in service to the U.S. during both times of peace and war, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. The day is often marked with the placing of American flags on graves at national cemeteries with the national moment of remembrance taking place at 3 p.m. local time.

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.

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Wide scope of presidential emergency powers could be reined in by Congress this year

The dates for the 2024 presidential and vice presidential debates have been set. Shown is the White House on June 24, 2023. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

The White House. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Senators from both political parties at a Wednesday hearing appeared to be on the same page about limiting presidential emergency powers, striking a bipartisan agreement that Congress should take steps this year to rework a decades-old law.

The National Emergencies Act, approved during the 94th Congress, provides the president with powers they wouldnt otherwise have and was intended to give lawmakers oversight of those emergencies.

Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said there are common sense reforms that would strengthen Congress role in exercising oversight of these emergency powers.

Peters said he looks forward to collaborating with Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, as the panel works diligently to make that happen in the coming months.

Reforming the National Emergencies Act is not about thwarting the policy goals of either party, Peters said. Its about strengthening our democracy and ensuring Congress maintains the responsibility to oversee executive power.

Dangerous imbalance

Paul said the current structure of the 1976 law, which was affected by a Supreme Court ruling in the 1980s, creates a dangerous imbalance of constitutional separations of powers.

Congress has been complicit and made itself a feckless branch of the federal government by granting the president so many emergency powers and refusing to regularly vote on termination of national emergencies as required by current law, he said.

Paul said he hoped the hearing marked the beginning of a serious and sustained effort to restore the Constitution, reclaim the authority of Congress and protect the liberties of the people by paring back the vast emergency powers delegated to the president.

Elizabeth Goitein, senior director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the liberal-leaning Brennan Center for Justice, testified there are 43 emergency declarations under the National Emergencies Act in place today, out of 79 total declarations.

That is especially concerning, Goitein said, because an emergency declaration unlocks powers contained in more than 130 statutory provisions, and some of these carry enormous potential for abuse.

One emergency power allows the president to take over or shut down wire or radio services, a process last used during World War II when that applied to telephones and telegrams that werent in many American homes, she said.

Today, it could arguably be used to exert control over U.S.-based internet traffic, Goitein said. Other laws allow the president to freeze Americans assets without any judicial process, to control domestic transportation and even to suspend the prohibition on government testing of chemical and biological agents on unwitting human subjects.

It would be irresponsible of Congress to continue hoping for presidential self-restraint to ensure that an executive doesnt take their emergency powers too far, she testified.

Trump border wall emergency

Former President Donald Trump, Goitein said, opened the door to abusing statutory emergency powers when he declared a national emergency to secure funding for the border wall after Congress had refused to provide that funding.

President (Joe) Biden nudged the door open a little bit more when he relied on emergency powers to forgive student loan debt, she added. Again, after Congress had considered legislation to forgive debt and had not passed that legislation.

There are several proposals that would require Congress to approve a presidents emergency declaration within 30 days, otherwise it would terminate. And even if a president received congressional approval, they would have to go back to lawmakers a year later to renew the emergency, Goitein said.

Gene Healy, senior vice president for policy at the libertarian Cato Institute, testified that it is remarkable that we havent seen far greater abuses of presidential emergency powers under the National Emergencies Act.

Congress should reset how emergency powers work by sunsetting presidential emergency declarations after a matter of weeks and requiring actual authorization from Congress to extend them further, Healy testified.

Lawmakers should review what emergency powers were granted to presidents under the nearly 50-year-old law and take away any that wouldnt be necessary during a true emergency or that are especially susceptible to abuse, he said.

Satya Thallam, senior fellow at the Foundation for American Innovation and a former senior staff member for the panel, said the sweet spot for any reform is one that is on its face policy neutral and designed to service only the interests of Congress lawmaking role vis-a-vis the president, rather than any particular political agenda.

The Foundation for American Innovation writes on its website that it was established in 2014 in Silicon Valley as Lincoln Labs. Its mission is to develop technology, talent, and ideas that support a better, freer, and more abundant future.

Disruption of peaceful transfer of power

In response to a question from Georgia Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff about how a president could disrupt a peaceful transition of power, Goitein reluctantly testified that she was concerned about the Insurrection Act, which exists outside of the National Emergencies Act.

The Insurrection Act is a law that allows the president to deploy federal military troops to quell civil unrest or to execute the law in crisis, she said. It gives the president extremely broad and judicially unreviewable discretion to deploy troops in ways that could certainly be abused.

Healy said it would be prudent for Congress to tighten up the authorities that a president holds under the Insurrection Act.

Paul said he was fully supportive of re-working the Insurrection Act to avoid potential abuses by presidents.

The Insurrection Act is a thousand times more potent and has the potential for turning the place into, you know, military rule overnight, Paul said, adding that hes introduced a bill that would bar presidents from sending the military anywhere without the explicit approval of Congress.

Our soldiers are great, but theyre not trained to obey the Fourth Amendment, our police are. And even thats imperfect, Paul said. But our police know about the Fourth Amendment. They know they have to get warrants. Armies dont get warrants.

Paul said any changes to the Insurrection Act must be more strict than changes to the National Emergencies Act, because youre talking about putting troops in our cities.

Paul also said the committee should look closely at the emergency power that could allow a president to essentially turn off the internet during a national emergency, referring to that as the internet kill switch.

You could become dictator in a day, in a moment, in one executive order, Paul said.

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Wisconsin man who broke into a probation and parole office to steal vehicle arrested after pursuit

CRANDON, Wis. (WFRV)  A man who stole a vehicle from a northern Wisconsin probation and parole office while breaking into the building was taken into custody after fleeing on foot during a brief pursuit.

According to the Forest County Sheriffs Office, officers from the Crandon Police Department notified deputies of a suspect who reportedly stole a vehicle from the Crandon Probation and Parole Office around 9 p.m. on May 23.

Brown County youth tennis coach in custody as investigation into growing number of young victims continues

It was later learned that the man had forced his way into the buildings office to get the keys for the vehicle. That vehicle was later pursued by Crandon PD Officers for roughly one mile before the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into the woods near Potawatomi Trail.

Shortly after, deputies responded to the Forest County Potawatomi Emergency Management Building at the intersection of Highway 8 and Bug Lake Road in the town of Lincoln, where deputies noticed signs of a forced entry with alarms going off in the building.

22-year-old Sheboygan man accused of shooting gun during domestic disturbance

The building was then searched, and no one was found inside.

The male suspect was later spotted walking along Highway 8 near Otter Creek Road in Lincoln. He was subsequently taken into custody, facing multiple felony charges.

No other information was provided.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
The Milwaukee Police Administration Building in downtown Milwaukee. (Photo | Isiah Holmes)

This story is being co-published by the Wisconsin Examiner and Invisible Institute, a nonprofit public accountability journalism organization based in Chicago.

Since 2017, Wisconsin policing regulators have tracked what they call flagged officers: cops who get fired, resign in lieu of a termination, or resign before an investigation into alleged misconduct can be completed.

The regulators, with the Law Enforcement Standards Board (LESB), were prompted by a series of reports on officers accused of sexual assault and dishonesty who had been able to get rehired  including as a police chief  with little oversight from the state.

What were trying to do is eliminate the opportunity for somebody to slip through the cracks, the chair of the LESB said at the time, referring to a phenomenon often called wandering officers.

Seven years in, its difficult to see what has changed: Because flagged officers can still be hired, they often are  and at an increasing rate, according to recent reporting. And because the flagged officers list is limited to only some officers who were disciplined or resigned, there is still potential for additional officers with histories of misconduct to have slipped through the cracks to new agencies undetected.

At the same time, total law enforcement staffing has continued to drop as departments face what they term a hiring crisis. This has prompted at least one local expert to raise concern that the hiring shortage could allow for more wandering officers to be hired to fill empty positions.

Unfortunately its impossible to fully understand the scale of the problem in Wisconsin. Thats because the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ), which houses the LESB, refuses to release the states full police certification and employment data. That puts Wisconsin in a small minority of states  just 14  that have denied access to this information, according to a nationwide reporting project. Over 30 states have released certification data  including Wisconsins neighbors Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota.

Now, Invisible Institute, a nonprofit public accountability journalism organization based in Chicago, and our co-plaintiff The Badger Project, have filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the DOJs denial of this basic information.

Access denied

The data on Wisconsins police, and what agencies theyve worked for, have been requested multiple times over the years by journalists seeking to report on policing issues in the state, including by Invisible Institute in 2017 and 2019 and a student journalist working on a national collaboration to obtain this information across the country in 2022. All requests were denied.

In November 2023, Invisible Institute and The Badger Project filed a new request in order to challenge this history of secrecy. In his letter denying access to Wisconsins police certification and employment data, DOJ attorney Paul Ferguson outlines several arguments supporting his decision to withhold the information.

First, he claims that current undercover law enforcement officers, officers who might perform undercover work, or those with other specific safety concerns could be endanger[ed], or their operations jeopardize[d] by the release of the data, and that DOJ had no way to identify those officers throughout the state.

Second, he writes that, even for officers not potentially working undercover or otherwise subject to safety concerns, releasing the identities and employers of public law enforcement officers would have an adverse effect on the safety and privacy interests of the officers and their families.

He cites cyber attacks, doxxing, or swatting activities against officers and their families as potential consequences, which he claims have already manifested although he does not provide verifiable examples.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Invisible Institute and The Badger Project by the Wisconsin Transparency Project and University of Illinois First Amendment Clinic and seeking to overturn his denial, argues that none of his stated reasoning justifies the DOJs blanket policy of refusing to release records identifying local law enforcement officers.

Courts have ruled time and time again that speculative fears of harm do not justify withholding government records from the public, said Tom Kamenick, president of the Wisconsin Transparency Project, in a statement.

Government officials must do more than merely claim that, hypothetically, something bad might happen if the records are released, he continued. Rather, they must show that harm is likely to occur and sufficiently serious to overcome the presumption of access to government records.

The state of Wisconsin does not and should not have secret police, agreed Bill Lueders, president of the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council, and it should not require a lawsuit to establish that.

Flagging officer list

When the flagged officers list was created in 2017, it was described as a good start by a national expert on police certification systems  but not sufficient to prevent officers from being rehired. Thats because there was, and is, no requirement for departments to do anything with the knowledge that an officer is on the list; they are still free to hire any officer who holds a state certification.

Indeed, an investigation by The Badger Project four years into the lists existence found nearly 200 flagged officers still in employment in Wisconsin in 2021. Many were listed due to their status as probationary officers who had committed minor misconduct when it was still easy for their departments to fire them, but many others had committed serious misconduct, including sexual harassment and multiple drunken interactions with other police.

Later in 2021, the state Legislature quietly passed a law requiring law enforcement agencies to keep employment files including internal affairs investigations and disciplinary actions, and mandating that already-certified officers who want to move to another department must allow the new department to review the employment file from their previous job.

However, again, the law did not require the new agency to do anything with the information in the old agencys employment file  or to even review the file in the first place.

Officers who are on the flagged list continue to get rehired throughout the state, reporting by The Badger Project has shown. Agencies that have hired them include the police or sheriffs departments in Wauwatosa, Black River Falls, Hurley, Cadott, Vernon County, and Waupaca County.

Now, in 2024, new reporting shows that over 300 officers on the list are back working in Wisconsin police departments and sheriffs offices (which doesnt include any who may have transferred to other states)  an increase of over 50%. Many of them congregate at the same departments, according to the limited data DOJ releases. Those departments include the Milwaukee County Sheriffs Office, Waukesha County Sheriffs Office, and Milwaukee Police Department.

The flagged officer list does not capture every potential wandering officer, however.

For example, Joseph Mensah, a Wauwatosa officer who resigned after committing three fatal shootings in the Milwaukee suburb, was found by an internal investigation to have significant training issues  but was not charged with misconduct. Because he was neither fired nor did he resign under investigation, Mensah is not a flagged officer, according to a copy of the list released by the DOJ in April 2024.

Despite protests from local faith groups, he was able to quickly find another job with the Waukesha County Sheriffs Office, according to reporting in the Wisconsin Examiner.

Mensahs cases were well publicized, and being placed on the list would not have prevented his hire. But in many less well known cases that do not fit into the lists narrowly-defined parameters, residents should be able to have that information [during] hiring  ahead of time, before theyve even agreed to a hire, said Nate Cade, a Milwaukee civil rights attorney.

Withholding data that could easily show residents or local journalists an officers employment history goes against fellow citizens by telling them, Your opinion doesnt count, he said.

Many uses for police employment data

The data could go beyond helping journalists and members of the public look up individual police officers or agencies, experts said.

Key to providing zealous defense for our clients is a full understanding of the facts and investigation that led to charges being filed, said Katie York, Wisconsins acting state public defender, in a statement. The service record of the investigating officer can often be key in providing ethical representation. Increased access and knowledge of the service record helps to fulfill the constitutional right to counsel.

Access to police employment data could also help groups like the Wisconsin Innocence Project, said Christopher Lau, a co-director of the project and law professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Being able to use data to get background on officers in support of the cases of their clients, which often involve allegations of police misconduct, would make our litigation much stronger, he said.

Transparency is an important part of building trust between our systems and the people that these systems are supposed to serve, said Ted Lentz, a criminal justice and criminology professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Hes currently conducting a community-centered research project into data about Milwaukees criminal legal system, and said that access to data about police employment could allow researchers to look at trends across departments that tend to hire officers who commit misconduct, or the impact of other policy decisions, like Milwaukees repeal of its residency requirements for city employees.

Experts have also raised concerns that the staffing issues faced by departments across the state and country could make it easier for officers with histories of misconduct to be rehired into law enforcement without increased oversight.

Every agency is screaming for more police officer applicants, and so that makes hiring and the acceptance of officers who may have questionable backgrounds a problem for us, said Patrick Solar, a former police chief in Genoa, Illinois, and a criminal justice professor at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

To hire people to fill the ranks, we may intentionally or inadvertently lower our standards. It brings in the opportunity for officers who may run into trouble moving from one agency to the next.

In addition, some reports suggest that Wisconsin has been attracting increased transfers from at least one neighboring state: when Illinois passed reform measures in 2021, many officers transferred to relatively more conservative states, including Wisconsin, Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police Executive Director Kenny Winslow told the Washington Post last year. Winslow did not respond to a request for comment from Invisible Institute.

Without data held by the LESB, all of these questions  the true scope of wandering officers within Wisconsin, how many come in from other states, and ultimately, how effective the states regulation of local policing is  will remain unanswered. One expert said she couldnt understand why.

Its hard to imagine data that would be more important or relevant for the public to have, said Christy Lopez, a former U.S. Department of Justice official who led the civil rights investigations into the Chicago and Ferguson police departments, and where the state would have less of an argument that that information shouldnt be shared.

This litigation was supported by the National Freedom of Information Coalition through a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and by the Society of Professional Journalists through a grant from the SPJ Legal Defense Fund.

Disclosure: As the executive director and president of the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council, Bill Lueders supported the NFOIC grant application.

The post Wisconsin is in the minority of states shielding police data. Were suing to change that. appeared first on Wisconsin Examiner.
Woman accused of throwing cinnamon roll at mans head in St. Pete

Woman accused of throwing cinnamon roll at mans head in St. Pete

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA)  A woman was not the best roll model earlier this week when she allegedly threw a cinnamon roll at a mans head, according to an affidavit.

Anne Marie Luna, 37, of New Jersey, was arrested Tuesday evening for throwing a cinnamon roll at a victims head, striking him at the base of his neck.

Florida elementary school student struck, killed by car on her way to school

The attack happened at St. Vincent de Paul, a housing center located at 401 15th Street North in St. Petersburg, at around 8:20 p.m.

The report said the victim did not suffer any injuries, but will be prosecuting.

The motive for the attack is unknown.

St. Petersburg police are not releasing the video, as this is an open and active investigation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Prince Georges County Police Department charged a woman Friday for shooting and killing her stepfather.

Brigette Robertson, 39, was charged with first-degree murder and other related charges for fatally shooting Gregory Byrd, Sr., 63, earlier this month.

On May 10, at around 6:30 p.m., police responded to the 6500 block of Pennsylvania Ave. Officers found Byrd outside with multiple gunshot wounds.

3 hurt after car crashes into tree in Montgomery County

He was in critical condition and was taken to the hospital where he died on May 22.

When the shooting happened, police identified Robertson as the suspect and obtained a warrant for her. She was arrested on May 11 and taken to the Department of Corrections, where she remained in custody as of May 24.

Police believe Robertson shot her stepfather during an argument.

Anyone with information was asked to call (301) 772-8960.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A young woman fell off the border wall Thursday morning, May 23 in Sunland Park and suffered serious injuries, according to the Sunland Park Fire Department.

According to the Fire Departments X account, responders were called to the border wall just after 8 a.m. on Thursday at the end of Anapra Road and West of Posey Road.

Photo courtesy to Sunland Park Fire X account.

The woman was in her late twenties and was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries, according to Sunland Park Fire.

No further information has been released at this moment.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
A woman rented out her $1.7M LA home  then her tenant left the country and turned it into an illegal Airbnb: report

Drone shot of homes in the Mid-Wilshire neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. halbergman/Getty Images

A woman rented her $1.675 million Los Angeles home to a musician in 2022.

According to the LA Times, he then illegally sublet it on Airbnb while living on another continent.

The illegal Airbnb listings generated $215,950  about $13,500 per month, according to the Times.

A 31-year-old woman rented her $1.675 million Los Angeles home to a musician who then turned it into an illegal Airbnb cash cow while living in the United Kingdom, according to a lawsuit seen by the Los Angeles Times.

The Times reported that Nikeeta Sriram bought the property, which consists of a main house with three bedrooms and a separate one-bedroom back house with a loft, in March 2022.

At the time, Sriram was renting in Los Feliz and didn't want to break her lease, so she decided to rent her home to 36-year-old Nicholas Jarzabek, according to the Times.

"He seemed like the perfect tenant until he turned into a nightmare," Sriram told the outlet.

According to the Times, during his first year as a tenant, Jarzabek paid his $8,500 rent on time or early, and didn't make repair requests.

However, the newspaper said that in December 2023, Sriram discovered that her home was being listed on Airbnb, in violation of the lease.

Police were called after the ADT alarm was repeatedly triggered, the Times reported, with ADT informing Sriram that Airbnb guests had set off the alarm.

When confronted, Jarzabek denied subletting the property, but Sriram found listings for it on Airbnb, the Times reported.

Initially, the Airbnb account was hosted by someone named Rich Jacobs. It's unclear if this was an alias for Jarzabek or an associate.

The main house was listed for $688 per night and the back property for $496, with the two buildings collective having more than 100 reviews on Airbnb, per the Times.

The subpoena showed that for 16 months between 2022 and 2023, the Airbnb listing generated $215,954, about $13,500 a month, according to the Times.

In February, the Times said that Sriram booked the house to communicate with the account holder, writing: "STOP RELISTING THIS PROPERTY. You are not authorized to sublease this property!"

But according to the newspaper, she received the response: "Dear Nikeeta, Welcome and Thank You. You will have a great time here."

The listings were temporarily removed, but new ones soon appeared.

According to the lawsuit reviewed by the newspaper, the property listings omitted exterior shots and provided a false address about a mile from the actual location.

Although Sriram considered changing the locks, she didn't want to violate the lease terms, which could result in her having to pay out damages. Instead, she filed for eviction through the Los Angeles Superior Court and filed a cease and desist to Jarzabek's attorney, the newspaper said.

Throughout the legal proceedings, the property continued to be rented under a new account, a rental company called Monthier, which has other listings throughout LA.

Monthier did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Sriram told the Times she eventually resorted to showing up at the property to warn guests about the situation.

"I felt terrible. I didn't want to ruin their vacations," she said, but added: "This is our only recourse since Airbnb provided no help to us."

Airbnb confirmed to the Times that the listing is no longer active and the account associated with Jacobs has been deleted.

An Airbnb spokesperson emailed BI a statement saying that the company doesn't tolerate hosts breaking local laws and works to combat it.

As part of the lawsuit, Sriram subpoenaed Airbnb for information about Jarzabek, discovering that the telephone number registered for Jacobs was a UK number, per the Times.

The newspaper said that Instagram posts show Jarzabek performing in London pubs under the name Nick Diver.

The Instagram account associated with Diver did not immediately respond to BI's request for comment.

"If the city can't figure out how to crack down on Airbnb, it should err on the side of caution and ban the platform until it can build a task force to manage it," Sriram told the newspaper.

According to the Times, Jarzabek stopped paying rent after Sriram filed the eviction notice. She told the newspaper that she estimates she has lost $100,000 this year in property damage, legal fees, and lost rent.

Sriram's unlawful detainer lawsuit was recently approved, allowing her to proceed with an eviction, the Times reported.

The newspaper said that she has also received a writ of possession, which permits a sheriff to take control of the property and return it to her. However, there is a waitlist of several months for that service.

Read the original article on Business Insider
LILONGWE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said its mission agreed with the Malawian authorities on new measures to restore macroeconomic stability in light of recent shocks.

In a statement released Thursday, the IMF projected the southern African country's growth rate at 2 percent, down from its earlier projection of 3.3 percent, acknowledging the effects of El Nino, which it said continue to affect economic performance.

The statement also said the mission, which visited Malawi from May 12 to 23, had productive discussions with the authorities.

"We reached a common understanding of the efforts needed to return to a sustainable fiscal adjustment path, rebuild external buffers, and restore debt sustainability. We also have a clear roadmap toward the completion of the review," the statement said.

The IMF mission, led by Mika Saito, an advisor at the African Department of the IMF, met Wednesday with Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera, who expressed optimism that his country, a member of the Least Developed Countries, is on the path to recovery from a series of economic shocks.

Chakwera, however, emphasized the need for the country to be vigilant in managing its economy to promote growth and further its recovery.

Malawi's economy was expected to recover with a growth rate of 3.3 percent, from 1.5 percent in 2023 and 0.9 percent in 2022, but long dry spells have led the World Bank and the IMF to lower the country's growth prospects to 2 percent.

While acknowledging that El Nino effects will dampen growth prospects, Malawi's central bank did not revise its 3.3 percent growth forecast in a recent monetary policy statement. 
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  An Eaton County court has sentenced a woman to 40-60 years in prison for the 2002 murder and mutilation in Charlotte of her husband, 37-year-old Robert Caraballo.

A jury in April convicted 63-year-old Beverly McCallum of Second Degree Murder and Disinterment and Mutilation of a Dead Body.

McCallums sentencing took place on Thursday. Eaton County Prosecuting Attorney Douglas R. Lloyd made the announcement in a statement on Friday.

Beverly McCallum is the third and final person to be convicted for Caraballos murder.

Courtesy of the Eaton County Sheriffs Office

Officials had extradited McCallum from Italy two years after her arrest there in 2020. She had earlier run away to Pakistan, and in 2019 was initially charged with First Degree Murder for her involvement in the killing, Lloyd said.

Caraballos remains were recovered in Ottawa County in 2002, Lloyd said. It wasnt until 2015 that officials were able to positively identify the remains as Caraballo.

Officials say that in 2002, McCallum and her co-defendants bludgeoned and beat Caraballo in the basement of their home on Horatio Street in Charlotte. According to testimony, they then took his body to an Ottawa County blueberry farm and set his body on fire.

Prosecutor Lloyd made the following statement:

Yesterday marked the conclusion of a 22-year journey to justice for Robert Caraballo and his family. Robert was senselessly and brutally murdered, burned, and discarded by Beverly McCallum, Dineane Ducharme, and Christopher McMillan. His daughter, Sicily, was left left to believe that her father had abandoned her for more than a decade. While the successful prosecution of those responsible wont bring back Robert, it is my hope that today Sicily, and the entire Caraballo family, feel a sense of justice and closure. Eaton County Prosecutor Douglas R. Lloyd

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
They wanted to please their partners.

One woman led an afterschool program. Another helped manage her daughter's child-care center. A third worked as a Hennepin County corrections officer. Their spotless records gave the men in their lives  felons who weren't legally allowed to possess a firearm  access to guns.

Over the past decade, federal agents and prosecutors in Minnesota have gone after those responsible for putting guns in the hands of people barred from owning them. This is often through "straw purchasing," when a person who's legally able to buy a gun lies on federal paperwork and then hands the firearm to someone prohibited from possessing guns or ammunition.

The practice can have catastrophic consequences  such as the February killings of three first responders in Burnsville by Shannon Cortez Gooden. A federal grand jury indicted Gooden's live-in girlfriend, Ashley Dyrdahl, a month later on charges that include straw purchasing for allegedly buying the guns Gooden used in the shootout. He later turned a gun on himself.

"Thanks for making me so happy," Gooden texted Dyrdahl one afternoon from a firing range, boasting about the high-powered ammunition he would use to kill two police officers and a firefighter-paramedic days later.

U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger, whose office is prosecuting Dyrdahl, said in a recent interview that the nature of straw purchasing in Minnesota is evolving. New court filings describe federal agents investigating a new conspiracy to unleash dozens of firearms on the streets of Minneapolis.

But Dyrdahl's case fits a pattern that has repeated itself for at least a decade: A Star Tribune review of more than two dozen such cases charged since 2014 found that a majority involve women connected to an intimate partner, close friend or relative who leaned on them to get their guns. And many of their cases reveal backdrops of trauma or domestic violence.

I was in a physically and verbally abusive relationship at the time, one woman explained to a judge.

The attorney for another argued: She was in a relationship with a person who emotionally exploited her to purchase firearms because he could not.

You have gone through trauma that's extreme, a judge observed before sentencing one woman.

"Firearms are themselves tools of abuse, manipulation and coercion, and so it makes sense that prohibited persons would use abuse, manipulation and coercion to try to circumvent prohibitions and access them," said James Densley, co-director of the Violence Prevention Project, a nonprofit based at Hamline University that studies gun violence. "In the end, prohibited persons are prohibited for a reason. Their intimate partners often find themselves embedded in criminal networks by default."

Duress defense?

Dyrdahl is the second person charged in Minnesota under a federal straw purchasing statute approved by Congress in 2022. Before then, prosecutors had to charge people suspected of straw purchasing by using other statutes, such as those focused on making false statements on federally required gun sale paperwork. Luger described the straw purchasing statute, passed as part of the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, as important because it names the crime  not unlike laws focused on sex trafficking, money laundering and carjacking.

"The one question that I get asked most often at community meetings is where are these weapons coming from?" Luger said. "And it was clear really two years ago when we started that straw purchasing was an important part of the problem."

The first person charged in Minnesota under the new statute aided and abetted his girlfriend to become a straw purchaser on his behalf. Torrence Ricardo Finley, 33, of St. Paul, had nine prior felony convictions related to domestic violence and was on supervised release for threatening to kill a woman when his girlfriend made the gun purchases for him.

Finley was sentenced to 68 months in federal prison last year after pleading guilty.

When Luger announced Dyrdahl's charges in March, he was asked by reporters whether he thought she would mount a defense alleging that she was under duress or coerced into buying Gooden's guns. At the time, Luger pointed to evidence including text exchanges between the couple that Dyrdahl "knowingly and intentionally" lied to federally licensed gun sellers to get her boyfriend pistols and AR-15-style rifles.

Messages were left seeking comment from Dyrdahl's attorney. The Burnsville mother of four has yet to formally enter a plea and is still awaiting a trial date.

Investigators also examine whether the guns are used in violent crimes and, if so, how soon after their original purchase. The Burnsville shootings are among the highest-profile examples of such a case in recent years. In 2021, federal authorities charged the straw purchaser responsible for buying a pistol later used in the Truck Park bar mass shooting in St. Paul, which killed one woman and injured 13 others.

"It's a totality and sometimes one factor is stronger than another," Luger said in an interview. "Sometimes the nature of the crime is such that even a strong factor such as coercion just doesn't rise to the level of importance at charging or sentencing depending on the crime. Each case has to stand or fall on its own facts in that regard."

Meggie Royer, prevention program manager for Violence Free Minnesota, said that people in abusive relationships often feel they have few choices. People might comply with an abusive partner's wishes because of threats to them or their children, Royer said, or they might remember previous abuse after rebuffing the partner's demands.

At least one ex-girlfriend of Gooden's has spoken publicly about suffering abuse at his hands.

"I think people should take a step back and remember that history of violence," Royer said. "I don't think it's fair to be solely punishing a victim survivor for the actions of somebody who had a long history of violence against multiple women."

Backdrops of abuse

Court records, often in the form of defense attorneys pleading for leniency, help illustrate how numerous Minnesota women became felons while trying to buy guns for their partners.

Jacquelyn Burnes grew up in a quiet neighborhood in Maple Grove with two loving parents who preached the importance of church and community. She earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, spent six years at a process server company providing legal support services, and volunteered at a halfway house. She wanted to one day work in child protective services or juvenile justice.

Burnes escaped an abusive relationship that ended when she called police after her boyfriend strangled her. Filled with grief over her father's death in 2013, and still "in a bad place" with her ex-boyfriend, she threw herself into work by splitting time as a Hennepin County correctional officer and working at the process server company.

At the jail, she was drawn to Diontre Ramone Hill, later explaining in court documents that her recent traumas made her vulnerable to his influence. Burnes and Angela Carter, who was romantically involved with another co-defendant, Keniko Bland, were later charged after buying guns and ammunition for the men, who were both legally prohibited from having them. A judge later sentenced Burnes to 13 months in prison.

Daisha Sharpe often helped her grandmother and disabled uncle with household chores. She dreamed of working in pediatrics, and led the after-school program at Hancock Recreation Center in St. Paul.

When she was a freshman in high school, she started dating Charles Campbell. She described him as "edgy, attractive, charismatic and street savvy." But he was also "emotionally abusive, manipulative, unfaithful, and reckless," according to court filings.

"This relationship began to define more and more of Daisha's life as she defended his behavior and poor decisions to people around her who were concerned about her well-being," wrote her attorney, Joshua Johnson, in a 2019 filing. "As is common in abusive relationships, Daisha prioritized what Charles wanted, neglecting her own interests and better judgment in the process."

She helped Campbell buy and resell at least 15 guns in 10 months in 2018. Police recovered multiple firearms trafficked by the pair at crime scenes or in the possession of felons. One gun was recovered at the scene of a gang shootout on Lake Street in Minneapolis. Sharpe received a 13-month prison sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth Shnider, who prosecuted the case, countered that Sharpe "was free at any moment to disengage from this conduct, and from the toxic relationship giving rise to it" but instead continued to help Campbell in his "dangerous and unlawful enterprise."

Shnider acknowledged that Sharpe did not appear to have been the driving force behind the scheme. Her involvement was instead "borne from a misguided devotion" to Campbell and "the belief, with each gun purchased, that she was helping him get on his feet."

Samantha Laska was just 21 when she bought her boyfriend a gun. By then, she'd already become an assistant director of a child care center and preschool where she'd started working in order to be with her daughter more.

Laska first met Tyreas Tyron Brown at a homecoming dance in high school. They later reconnected through a mutual friend, and her young daughter was instantly attached to him. This strengthened Laska's attachment to Brown, her attorney explained in court filings. Laska had just left a physically abusive relationship and hoped Brown would become the father figure missing from her daughter's life. Their relationship lasted just six months, time often spent in a "puppy love" phase that made his infidelity and other red flags easier to dismiss.

"She tried to weather those issues for the sake of her daughter," wrote Lisa Lopez, Laska's attorney. "After all, Samantha knew how painful it was to lose the men in her life."

Lopez continued: "Trying to make the relationship work, Samantha did things she shouldn't have. She tolerated cheating. And when Brown asked her to buy him a gun, she did it."

Laska received three years of probation in her case.

Of the nearly two dozen federal cases involving straw purchasing filed since 2014 and reviewed by the Star Tribune, five resulted in probation terms of between six months and three years. Those sentenced to prison received penalties of one month to 68 months, with an average prison sentence of just under two years.

Motivated by the Burnsville shootings, the Legislature this month passed a bill that elevated the state straw purchasing statute from a gross misdemeanor to a felony, while increasing the potential penalties. However, most cases of straw purchases end up in federal court. Since 2014, there have been nine cases brought under the state statute, with just one of them  a 2017 Crow Wing County case  yielding a conviction.

A law with more teeth

Erica MacDonald, a former U.S. Attorney for Minnesota who now works in private practice, led an office that prosecuted at least half a dozen straw purchaser cases during her tenure from 2018 to 2021.

During the Trump administration, under which MacDonald served, she said the Justice Department made a "significant push" to prosecute such cases and attempt to deter people from putting guns in the hands of people who shouldn't own them.

"Some things can be a mitigating factor or can provide an explanation but not provide an excuse," MacDonald said. "There are facts and circumstances that can tend to provide an explanation for why somebody engaged in certain conduct, but it doesn't arise to legal defense such that it could prevent a finding of guilt or non-guilt. So in a lot of these straw purchasing cases, duress is not going to be available."

Travis Riddle, special agent in charge of the ATF's St. Paul office, said he has never seen a case of someone coerced into straw buying.

"It's always done willingly," he said.

The new straw purchasing law being used to prosecute Dyrdahl has considerably more teeth than charges used to prosecute previous such cases, Riddle said. Now, people charged under that federal statute face the possibility of up to 15 years in prison.

"Previously, ... that deterrence really wasn't there," Riddle said.

The new law can also be used to open broader investigations, such as the racketeering conspiracy probes Luger has revived to go after Minneapolis street gangs. It allows the government to seize profits linked to straw purchasing or other forms of firearms trafficking and may signal a shift in the types of straw purchasing cases to be charged in Minnesota and elsewhere.

"It allows you to throw out a bigger net when it comes to not only the individuals in that organization but potentially the individuals that are supplying the firearms to those organizations who possibly would fly under the radar with not much of a possibility of being prosecuted," Riddle said.

That appears to be happening now, according to two recently filed criminal complaints and search warrant affidavits: ATF agents last month arrested two men connected to an investigation into a suspected straw purchaser who bought 32 firearms between December 2023 and March.

"What we  meaning ATF, this office, other law enforcement agencies  have seen is that as the proliferation of weapons on the street has grown, the nature of straw purchasing has grown and changed with it," Luger said. "To the extent that much of it was friend to friend or intimate partner-related, it has grown far beyond that, and we are looking carefully at what can be done to address straw purchasing beyond the intimate partner type that we have seen traditionally in the past."
By Nidal al-Mughrabi

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip/CAIRO (Reuters) - Forced from her home by Israel's seven-month-long Gaza offensive, Salwa al-Masri has little hope her plight will be alleviated by a ruling from the U.N.'s top court ordering Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah.

"The massacres are only increasing," she said, as she cooked a meal on an open fire outside a tent in Deir al-Balah.

"They shouldnt say one thing, while the action is something different," said Masri, who fled her home in northern Gaza earlier in the war. "We want these decisions to be implemented on the ground."

Judges at the World Court, also known the International Court of Justice (ICJ), ordered Israel on Friday to halt its offensive in Rafah governorate. It marked a landmark emergency ruling on a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide in its assault on the Gaza Strip.

But the World Court has no means to enforce its orders, and Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz said Israel would continue its "just and necessary" war against the Hamas militant group to return its hostages and ensure its security.

Hamas fighters killed some 1,200 people in Israel in the Oct. 7 attack and abducted around 250 more, according to Israeli tallies. Gaza health authorities say more than 35,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli retaliatory offensive which has laid waste to much of the enclave.

Israel has rejected South Africa's accusation that it is committing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza war, arguing that it is acting to defend itself and fighting Hamas.

"Israel doesnt care about the world, it acts as if it was above the law because the U.S. administration is shielding it against punishment, said Shaban Abdel-Raouf, a Palestinian displaced four times by the Israeli offensive.

"The world isnt yet prepared to stop our slaughter at Israeli hands, said Abdel-Raouf, who was reached by phone.

Israel began pushing into Rafah earlier this month, saying it aims to wipe out remaining Hamas fighters holed up there.

Simultaneous Israeli assaults on the northern and southern edges of Gaza this month have caused a new exodus of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fleeing their homes, and have cut off the main access routes for aid, raising the risk of famine.

South Africa's lawyers asked the ICJ last week to impose emergency measures, saying Israel's attacks on Rafah must be stopped to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people.

Hamas said it welcomed the World Court ruling but said it was not enough "since the occupation aggression across the Gaza Strip and especially in northern Gaza is just as brutal and dangerous".

Palestinians needed an immediate halt to the war and they wanted to see action to achieve that, displaced Palestinian man Nabil Diab said. "We dont need a declaration," he said.

(Reporting by Doaa Rouqa in Deir al-Balah and Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo; Writing by Tom Perry, Editing by William Maclean)
GAZA (Reuters) - The Palestinian Authority welcomed the World Court's order on Friday for Israel to halt its operations in the city of Rafah, saying it represents an international consensus to end the war in Gaza, presidential spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh told Reuters.

Hamas, which governs Gaza, also issued a statement welcoming the decision, but told Reuters that it fell short of recognising that other parts of the enclave are under attack.

"We believe it is not enough since the occupation's aggression across the Gaza Strip, especially in northern Gaza, is just as brutal and dangerous," senior Hamas official Basem Naim said.

Hamas called on the United Nations Security Council to implement the International Court of Justice decision, he said, adding that the group welcomes the court's request to allow investigation committees to reach the Gaza Strip to probe allegations of genocide against the Palestinian people.

Israel has strongly denied it has carried out acts of genocide in its war in Gaza, which is now in its eighth month.

"Hamas pledges to cooperate with the investigation committees," Naim told Reuters.

(Reporting by Ali Sawafta, Writing by Nayera Abdallah, Adam Makary; Editing by Alison Williams)
Atlantic salmon have traveled New Hampshire rivers for millennia. (Gregg Parsons | Getty Images)

May 24 is World Fish Migration Day, a worldwide celebration of migratory fish and the free-flowing rivers they depend on for spawning and nursery habitat.

Here in New Hampshire, river herring, Atlantic salmon, rainbow smelt, American eels, and sea lamprey are among the iconic species that have traveled our rivers for millennia, leading awe-inspiring life journeys and providing sustenance for generations of people. On the Ashuelot River near Keene, archaeologists have identified the remnants of weirs used by Indigenous peoples as far back as 10,000 years ago to trap herring and salmon.

But migratory fish need our help. More than 76 percent of the planets migratory fish species have populations in decline and are at risk of being endangered. In New Hampshire, systems such as the Connecticut-Ashuelot River system, the Merrimack-Pemigewasset River system, and the Great Bay-Oyster River system are freshwater highways once open to migratory species.

Obstacles in these systems, such as undersized or badly damaged culverts and derelict dams that no longer produce power, create impassable barriers for fish and other species to move. New Hampshire alone has more than 27,000 dams and other barriers within our rivers and streams. If migratory fish cannot move freely, they cannot complete their life cycles.

Many organizations, including The Nature Conservancy, work with communities and landowners to remove these obstacles, to return rivers to their natural flow, lowering the threat of flooding, improving water quality, and providing passage for migratory fish into critical spawning grounds.

While the situation facing our migratory fish is dire, there is hope.

We are seeing a record number of obsolete dams and other barriers being removed each year. Communities across the state are investing in fish- and wildlife-friendly infrastructure. It is imperative that New Hampshire continues to make progress and increase efforts to reconnect our rivers and streams and conserve our migratory fish species.

We all have a role to play  conservationists, landowners, neighbors, state representatives, and local government officials. In New Hampshire, we still have time to restore the connections between saltwater and freshwater, benefiting both nature and people. Now that is something to celebrate.

The post This World Fish Migration Day, its all about making connections appeared first on New Hampshire Bulletin.
The family of Star Shells is suing Oklahoma City for wrongful death after a fatal police chase.

A wrongful death lawsuit filed against Oklahoma City after a deadly police pursuit has been moved to federal court.

Star Shells, a 28-year-old single mother who was pregnant with a son she named Elijah, died in 2021, when her white Chevy Impala was struck near Martin Luther King Avenue and NE 16.

Her vehicle was struck by a stolen black Ford F350 King Ranch pickup driven by Wacey Gerron Mikles, now 41, who was fleeing police at speeds reaching at least 95 mph.

Because the truck was equipped with GPS, its owner was able to give police real-time updates of its location.

After the fatal collision with Shells, Mikles entered a negotiated plea of guilty to two counts of second-degree murder, larceny of an automobile, possession of methamphetamine, and driving with a suspended or revoked license.

He was sentenced to 20 years in prison followed by 10 years on probation, with the prison time running concurrently with a federal sentence for bank robberies committed before the deadly collision.

Shells mother, Connie Basco, initially filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Oklahoma County District Court. The city of Oklahoma City asked for the case to be moved to federal court.

A spokeswoman for Oklahoma City has said the city cannot comment on the litigation.

Lawsuit accuses OKC police of negligence, reckless conduct

Basco is joined by a second plaintiff, Elijah Reeves, who is the father of Shells unborn son.

They accuse Oklahoma City police officers of negligence, reckless conduct and violating Shells' right to equal protection of the law.

The ensuing police chase was entirely unnecessary because Oklahoma City Police Officers had access to, or could later access, information from the GPS tracking device on the stolen vehicle, Bascos lawsuit states.

The lawsuit claims the pursuit lasted five minutes and 22 seconds, with Mikles and police running one stop sign, and four red lights at major intersections.

A little more than a year after Shells was killed, the Oklahoma City Police Department announced changes to its vehicle pursuit policy.

Changes included the termination of a pursuit when officers know of, and can access information from, a GPS tracking device on the vehicle.

Basco is seeking damages of at least $75,000 in addition to attorneys fees and costs.

She is also seeking damages for medical and burial expenses, mental pain and anguish, and grief suffered by Shells surviving children.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC wrongful death suit following police chase moved to federal court
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS)  The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History (WVDACH) announced a partnership with the Wing 2 Wing Foundation and the Save The Music Foundation to support the arts in education.

The Wing 2 Wing Foundation has contributed $280,000 to the WVDACH in its ongoing partnership with the Save The Music Foundation to improve the instrument rebuild project in middle schools through the state. With the donation, fourteen additional middle schools in West Virginia will benefit over the next three years, eventually reaching students across all 55 counties.

Making sure our kids have the resources they need to succeed should be a priority for all of us. Im happy to know that its a priority for the Wing 2 Wing Foundation because, with their donation, we are making sure students all across West Virginia have what they need to show their creativity. Music is one of the best forms of expression, and it warms my heart to know so many kids will have the opportunity to display their artistic talents. Governor Jim Justice

With the generous support of the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, we now have the resources to achieve our goal of providing accessible music education in every eligible middle school throughout West Virginia. This partnership allows us to supply quality instruments to students statewide, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to make music. Chiho Feindler | Chief Program Officer, Save The Music

The Wing 2 Wing Foundation, founded by Brad D. and Alys Smith, aims to champion dignity while unleashing potential in West Virginia. While aspiration and talent are evenly distributed across a population, opportunity is not.

Wing 2 Wing has set their focus on changing that reality through investments in education, entrepreneurship, and the environment. By spreading opportunities throughout Appalachia, the Wing 2 Wing Foundation serves as a beacon of hop for similar regions across the world.

Prosperity occurs when we equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel, but this can only happen when access to education is truly equal. Playing in the school band had a significant impact on my and Alyss educational experience during our youth and early childhood, so were thrilled to enable similar experiences by expanding access to musical instruments throughout all 55 counties. Brad D. Smith | Marshall University President, Co-Founder of The Wing 2 Wing Foundation

Save The Music and Wing 2 Wing Foundation Schools include:

2025

Glenwood School, Mercer County

Harts Pk8, Lincoln County

Road Branch School, Wyoming County

South Charleston Middle School, Kanawha County

Spencer Middle School, Roane County

Valley PK-8 School, Fayette County

Walton Middle School, Roane County

2026

Burch PK-8 School, Mingo County

East Fairmont Middle School, Marion County

Green Bank PK8, Pocahontas County

Southside PK-8, McDowell County

West Fairmont, Marion County

2027

East Bank Middle School, Kanawha County

John Adams Middle School, Kanawha County

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A local family whos been wondering for decades what happened to their loved one in World War II finally received closure Thursday.

Almost 80 years after he went missing, Bartholomew Loschiavo returned home to the Queen City.

Uncle Bart passed away and he brought the family together, great nephew Bart DAngelo said. Thats what was going through my mind.

It was all love, great niece Anna Schwass said. They just missed him, and they were just hoping they would find him one day.

WWII Private First Class Bartholomew Loschiavo entered the military in 1940. He was deployed to both France and Germany and was killed in action in 1944 near Grevenmacher, Luxembourg. He was only in his mid-20s.

Even though he was in the service for 65 days in Europe, he was in the National Guard before that for three years, great nephew Donald Loschiavo said. He really wanted to serve. It was something he wanted to do and were proud of that. He did do that.

Loschiavos remains were discovered by local residents and buried in the Church Cemetery of Grevenmacher.

The U.S Military discovered his remains and he was transferred to the Luxembourg American Cemetery, where he laid in an anonymous grave for more than 75 years.

A company called Footstep Researchers provided me all the files on Bart that I needed to do the research and hammered down where he was, Donald added.

There was 5,000 men in that cemetery alone, including Bart, and theres 96 of them still, with no name, Donald continued. I hope other people would do this for their family member and bring them home.

This April, the U.S Department of Defense and the American Battle Monuments Commission notified the Loschiavo family that their DNA was a positive match to the unknown remains.



On Thursday, Bartholemew Loschiavos remains returned home just days before his 104th birthday on Monday, which is Memorial Day.

The casket was flanked by family, the National Guard, police and even strangers who showed their respect.

We couldnt be more proud of him and what he did for this country, great nephew David Loschiavo said. Thats really what its all about.

There was hope at the beginning that when he was reported missing, that he was still alive, DAngelo said. I believe that hope turned to belief, but this gave closure. Hell be buried along with his parents and his brother, Matthew.

This is closure and just sad that his brothers and sisters never had a chance to find out the truth, Donald said.

The funeral and celebration of Bartholomew Loschiavos life and legacy, followed by his body being laid to rest in his hometown, will be June 1.

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
KHARTOUM, May 24 (Xinhua) -- At least 85 people have been killed during ongoing clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the past two weeks at El Fasher, the capital city of North Darfur State, western Sudan, a United Nations agency said on Friday.

"According to health partners, at least 700 civilians have been injured and 85 people have been killed during the armed clashes since May 10," the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in its latest report.

The humanitarian situation for an estimated 800,000 civilians in El Fasher and surrounding areas has deteriorated following the outbreak of armed clashes, according to the report.

"At least 1,250 people (250 households) have been displaced," said OCHA, citing reports from the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

OCHA noted that "due to communications disruptions and access challenges, these reported figures are underestimates and are likely to increase."

OCHA warned of a rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and increasing concerns for civilian safety. The clashes have spread to previously unaffected city areas, raising fears of wider violence.

The El Fasher fighting is part of a larger conflict that has gripped Sudan since April 15, 2023. Clashes between the SAF and the RSF have claimed an estimated 15,550 lives and displaced 8.8 million people nationwide, according to OCHA. 
By David Lawder

STRESA, Italy (Reuters) - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Friday that she does not see "any showstoppers" in her discussions with fellow G7 finance ministers about a larger loan to Ukraine backed by the income of frozen Russian sovereign assets.

Yellen told Reuters in an interview on the sidelines of a G7 finance leaders meeting that not all of the technical details of the loan proposal need to be worked out this weekend.

"I think things look pretty good," for agreeing on the concept of the loan, Yellen said after several bilateral meetings on the first day of the two-day finance summit in the northern Italian resort town of Stresa.

"Ive not seen anything I regard as a show stopper, but there are some issues that we need to be sorted out and people will have to be flexible to reach common ground," Yellen said.

The U.S. Treasury chief has been pushing her counterparts in the talks to agree to pull forward the earnings on some $300 billion in Russian sovereign assets to back a larger loan for Ukraine. But it has become clear that no firm details of the loan will emerge from the Stresa talks.

"I'm pretty hopeful we can essentially agree that this is a concept we can work out somewhat more over the next couple of weeks and present to the leaders for their consideration in June."

G7 leaders are due to meet next month in Puglia, southern Italy. The group of industrial democracies includes the U.S., Japan, Germany, France, Britain and Italy.

Yellen also told Reuters that there are a "range of views" among G7 finance ministers on the level of concern about China's industrial overcapacity, which she argues threatens the viability of firms in market-driven economies.

On the G7 meeting's first day, some ministers expressed concerns about a potential trade war in the wake of new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, but the finance ministers of Germany, France and hosts Italy said a common front was needed against China's growing export strength.

"I think there is a general view that we should express a common set of concerns to China," she said. "Its that Chinas overall macroeconomic strategy is worrisome and has negative spillovers."

(Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Diane Craft)
LOWER MANHATTAN (PIX11)  The city council changed the way thousands of parking structures around the city are regulated.

It comes after that fatal garage collapse on Ann Street more than a year ago.

Survivors reunited with heroic rescuers at FDNYs 28th Second Chance Ceremony

Councilmembers Crystal Hudson and Amanda Farias spoke exclusively to PIX11 News at the site of the Ann Street garage Thursday shortly before the City Council reformed the way parking structures are inspected and, if necessary fined if safety violations are discovered.

You walk by the structures every day, and you dont spend any time thinking something like this could happen, Farias said before Hudson continued: Thats why these bills are so important because we know our infrastructure is dated, but we also trust when we are parking our cars, and going to our homes, and walking down the street, the buildings are not going to collapse around us.

Hudsons bill means garages will get inspected every four years instead of every six. Democratic Majority Leader Farriass legislation will double the penalties for various safety violations.

A third bill would require the Department of Buildings (DOB) to conduct a load-bearing capacity study for all parking garages. It will look at age, materials, and structural design.

However, to keep up with all the additional inspections, the DOB may need to beef up staff. The agency has eliminated positions in recent years, and the Council has pressed the Mayors Office to do more hiring. There was recently had a budget hearing on this.

Theyre saying they can do all the inspections that theyre supposed to do and should be doing with what they have, Hudson said. But of course more staffing makes a lot of those inspections go faster.

The Council is also working on several infrastructure billsFarias said to look for those a bit later this year.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
(FOX40.COM)  Retailers all over New York have employees placed at store exits to check receipts as a person leaves as proof of purchase for merchandise. But are shoppers legally required to stop?

Most notably, Walmart has asset protection associates, formerly known as door greeters, at every entrance and exit of its stores. While some people choose to wait in line to get their receipts verified before leaving the store, others will breeze by without stopping.

T-Mobile announces increase to some customers bills

According to Section 218 of the New York General Business Law, shoppers may not have to stop at exits to have their receipts checked. The law states that an owner or employee of a retail establishment can detain a customer if there are reasonable grounds to believe that the plaintiff being detained committed a theft.

So, unless a store suspects that a person has committed a crime, they cannot legally force a person exiting a store to present a receipt.

What about Costco and Sams Club?

Retailers who offer memberships usually require a person to give consent to have their receipts and other personal property checked upon request. The Costco terms and conditions for membership state, Costco reserves the right to inspect any container, backpack, briefcase, or other bag, upon entering or leaving the warehouse and to refuse entry to anyone at our discretion.

In addition, Costcos terms for membership state, To ensure that all members are correctly charged for the merchandise purchased, all receipts and merchandise will be inspected as you leave the warehouse.

We do this to double-check that the items purchased have been correctly processed by our cashiers, Costco said on its website. Its our most effective method of maintaining accuracy in inventory control, and its also a good way to ensure that our members have been charged properly for their purchases.

Sams Club uses the near-exact same verbiage as Costco in their membership general policies:

For merchandise, Sams Club reserves the right to inspect any container, backpack, briefcase or other bag of any person upon entering or leaving any Sams Club location and to refuse entry to anyone at our discretion.

For receipt-checking, the Sams Club policy reads, To ensure that you are charged correctly for the merchandise you have selected, Sams Club may inspect or electronically scan your merchandise and electronic/phone or paper copy receipt(s) when you exit any Sams Club location.

Not stopping to get a receipt or bag checked at Costco or Sams Club is not illegal, however, it would be a violation of the stores policy and could result in membership being revoked.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
A young American couple who devoted their lives to missionary work in Haiti were killed Thursday night, along with the Haitian director of their non-profit, after two armed groups attacked their mission in the countrys volatile capital.

Im just at a total loss, David Lloyd, 48, told the Miami Herald, confirming the deaths of his son Davy Lloyd, daughter-in-law Natalie Lloyd and director Jude Montis. Im just in total shock. I havent grieved. I havent done anything else. I havent eaten. I cant think.

The three were killed by armed gunmen who attacked Missions In Hope, a U.S.-based non-profit near Bon Repos, a gang-controlled community just east of the capital. The attack served as a reminder of the ongoing violence by criminal armed gangs who since Feb. 29 have released thousands of inmates from two prisons, attacked police stations and schools and forced the shuttering of the airport and seaport.

It is just another example of the violence that spares no one in Haiti, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, while offering his condolences to the family.

The details of what happened were still not clear Friday, said Lloyd, who had flown out of Port-au-Prince with his other son the day before the attack. But the non-profit was hit by two different armed groups during the day, he said. Davy Lloyd was trying to inform his dad about what was happening on the property when the three were killed and the house was set on fire.

Workers who extracted the bodies on Friday told the Herald that despite fears the couple had been set on fire, their bodies appeared to have been pulled out and rescued from the flames.

Missions in Hope runs a school for 450 children, has a childrens home and a commercial bakery, where Lloyd said we give bread to anyone whos hungry.

We havent had any problems, he said. Weve operated school every day. Weve had church on schedule. We got a commercial bakery thats open every day. Ive never had been asked for any money to operate or stay open. Ive never had any issues.

On Thursday Davy, 23, and Natalie, 21, were ambushed by armed gunmen belonging to the Terre Nwa/Terre Noire (Black Land) gang based in the area of Sarthe. The ambush happened on a day on which many Haitians had anticipated a deployment of Kenyan police officers. Terre Nwa is led by Cathel Jones, an ally of the G9 gang federation led by former policeman Jimmy Barbecue Cherizier. Arrested by police in December 2021, Jones is among the thousands of inmates who recently escaped after armed groups stormed the countrys two largest prisons on March 2.

Jones gang members went onto the missions property late Thursday just as Natalie and Davy were coming out of church with several youths.

They drove him into the house, tied him up and beat him, Lloyd said. Then they proceeded to loot the whole house, everything they wanted and took my trucks and drove off with them.

After the gang left, the staff and children untied Davy and he headed to his parents house on the property to call his dad. On the way to the house, he and Natalie met up with Montis, the director who has been with the nonprofit for 20 years, and others who had stepped outside to see what had happened.

All of a sudden there was this immense panic. Everybody started running, David Lloyd said. The kids ran around back, put ladders up and climbed over the wall.

Suddenly the place was invaded with more men with guns, members of another gang in nearby Canaan, controlled by man identified as Jeff.

I was on the phone with my son when that was going down. He said, Dad, we got a commotion again. Ive got to go see whats going on, Lloyd said.

Lloyd said he has heard after the second gang arrived a gang member was shot and mayhem broke out. Davy, Natalie and Jude were all barricaded inside his parents home on the property.

They eventually got into the house and killed all three of them and set their bodies on fire, Lloyd said. He said he is trying to get the bodies to have them sent to a morgue.

David Lloyd and his wife, Alicia Lloyd, founded Missions in Haiti in 2000. Davy grew up in Haiti, his father said. Creole is his first language and Haiti has his heart.

David Lloyd recalled that when Davy left Haiti after high school for bible college in the U.S., he told basically all the girls there, Dont even talk to me if youre not willing to live in Haiti the rest of your life, cause thats my home.

Natalie Baker, whose father is a state lawmaker in the House of Representatives in Missouri, was willing to spend her life in the Caribbean country. The two got married two years ago and moved back to Haiti full-time. Natalies father, state Rep. Ben Baker, a Republican, shared the news about the couples death on his Facebook page.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain. Most of you know my daughter and son-in-law Davy and Natalie Lloyd are full time missionaries in Haiti. They were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed, Baker wrote. They went to Heaven together. Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family. I have no other words for now.

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri said Davy and Natalie Lloyd dedicated their lives to sharing the Gospel. They died in the mission field in Haiti last night at the hands of thugs. All of Missouri honors them.

The deaths have the missionary community reeling. Though some missionaries have left after the State Department warned U.S. citizens to leave the country, others have remained in Haiti, where an impending deployment of police officers from Kenya to help lead a multinational security support mission has been pushed back after an assessment team from Nairobi found critical equipment shortages.

The assessment team, which has a meeting with the United Nations political office in Haiti on Friday, is scheduled to fly out on Saturday and head back to Nairobi.
A young American couple who devoted their lives to missionary work in Haiti were killed Thursday night, along with the Haitian director of their non-profit, after two armed groups attacked their mission in the countrys volatile capital.

Im just at a total loss, David Lloyd, 48, told the Miami Herald, confirming the deaths of his son Davy Lloyd, daughter-in-law Natalie Lloyd and director Judes Montis. Im just in total shock. I havent grieved. I havent done anything else. I havent eaten. I cant think.

The three were killed by armed men who attacked Missions In Hope, a U.S.-based non-profit near Bon Repos, a gang-controlled community just east of the capital. The attack served as a reminder of the ongoing violence by criminal armed gangs who since Feb. 29 have released thousands of inmates from two prisons, attacked police stations and schools and forced the shuttering of the airport and seaport.

It is just another example of the violence that spares no one in Haiti, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, while offering his condolences to the family.

The details of what happened were still not clear Friday, said Lloyd, who had flown out of Port-au-Prince with his other son the day before the attack. But the non-profit was hit by two different armed groups during the day, he said. Davy Lloyd was trying to inform his dad about what was happening on the property when the three were killed and the house was set on fire.

Workers who extracted the bodies on Friday told the Herald that Natalies body was not burned and Davvy appeared to have been pulled out before his body was completely charred.

Missions in Hope runs a school for 450 children, has a childrens home and a commercial bakery, where Lloyd said we give bread to anyone whos hungry.

We havent had any problems, he said. Weve operated school every day. Weve had church on schedule. We got a commercial bakery thats open every day. Ive never been asked for any money to operate or stay open. Ive never had any issues.

On Thursday Davy, 23, and Natalie, 21, were ambushed by gunmen belonging to the Terre Nwa/Terre Noire (Black Land) gang based in the area of Sarthe. The ambush happened on a day on which many Haitians had anticipated a deployment of Kenyan police officers. Terre Nwa is led by Cathel Jones, an ally of the G9 gang federation led by former policeman Jimmy Barbecue Cherizier. Arrested by police in December 2021, Jones is among the thousands of inmates who recently escaped after armed groups stormed the countrys two largest prisons on March 2.

Jones gang members went onto the missions property late Thursday just as Natalie and Davy were coming out of church with several youths.

They drove him into the house, tied him up and beat him, Lloyd said. Then they proceeded to loot the whole house, everything they wanted and took my trucks and drove off with them.

After the gang left, the staff and children untied Davy and he headed to his parents house on the property to call his dad. On the way to the house, he and Natalie met up with Montis, the director who has been with the nonprofit for 20 years, and others who had stepped outside to see what had happened.

All of a sudden there was this immense panic. Everybody started running, David Lloyd said. The kids ran around back, put ladders up and climbed over the wall.

Suddenly the place was invaded with more men with guns, members of another gang in nearby Canaan, controlled by man identified as Jeff.

I was on the phone with my son when that was going down. He said, Dad, we got a commotion again. Ive got to go see whats going on, Lloyd said.

Lloyd said he has heard after the second gang arrived a gang member was shot and mayhem broke out. Davy, Natalie and Jude were all barricaded inside his parents home on the property.

They eventually got into the house and killed all three of them and set their bodies on fire, Lloyd said. He said he is trying to get the bodies to have them sent to a morgue.

Judes Montes, who worked for Missions in Hope, in Haiti was among three people killed on Thursday, May 23, 2024 when armed gangs attacked the compound near Bon Repos in the capital. Montes served as director of the U.S.-based charity.

David Lloyd and his wife, Alicia Lloyd, founded Missions in Haiti in 2000. Davy grew up in Haiti, his father said. Creole is his first language and Haiti has his heart.

David Lloyd recalled that when Davy left Haiti after high school for bible college in the U.S., he told basically all the girls there, Dont even talk to me if youre not willing to live in Haiti the rest of your life, cause thats my home.

Natalie Baker, whose father is a state lawmaker in the House of Representatives in Missouri, was willing to spend her life in the Caribbean country. The two got married two years ago and moved back to Haiti full-time. Natalies father, state Rep. Ben Baker, a Republican, shared the news about the couples death on his Facebook page.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces. Ive never felt this kind of pain. Most of you know my daughter and son-in-law Davy and Natalie Lloyd are full time missionaries in Haiti. They were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed, Baker wrote. They went to Heaven together. Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family. I have no other words for now.

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri said Davy and Natalie Lloyd dedicated their lives to sharing the Gospel. They died in the mission field in Haiti last night at the hands of thugs. All of Missouri honors them.

The deaths have the missionary community reeling. Though some missionaries have left after the State Department warned U.S. citizens to leave the country, others have remained in Haiti, where an impending deployment of police officers from Kenya to help lead a multinational security support mission has been pushed back after an assessment team from Nairobi found critical equipment shortages.

The assessment team, which has a meeting with the United Nations political office in Haiti on Friday, is scheduled to fly out on Saturday and head back to Nairobi.
Natalie Lloyd (left) and David Lloyd III (right) were killed in a gang attack in Haiti on Thursday evening, their missionary organization announced (Natalie Lloyd/Facebook)

A Missouri state lawmakers daughter and son-in-law were killed by Haitian gang members who ambushed their missionary groups compound on Thursday evening.

The coupleDavid Lloyd III, 23, and Natalie Lloyd, 21made desperate calls as they were being held hostage inside a home on the compound but never made it out alive, their Oklahoma-based group, Missions in Haiti, wrote on Facebook. The groups Haitian director, 20-year-old Jude Montis, was also killed in the attack.

My heart is broken in a thousand pieces, Natalie Lloyds father, Missouri state Representative Ben Baker, said. Ive never felt this kind of pain.

David Lloyd IIIs father said that gang members arrived at the Missions in Haiti compound in trucks, stealing cars and beating up his son inside the home. After they left, another gang arrivedand the situation turned deadly.

And then all of a sudden another group pulls up and thats where things got foggy, David Lloyd Jr. told The New York Times. I was talking to him when that next group pulled up. And he was telling me that he got hit in the head by a pistol. Hes like, Ive got to go now. Theres a bunch of them here again.

In a Facebook post before the trio died, Missions in Haiti organization said that gang members opened fire on the compound, shooting out all the windows.

They are holed up in there, the gangs has shot all the windows out of the house and continue to shoot, the group said, shortly before announcing the deaths. Their lives are in danger.

Former President Donald Trump also weighed in on the Lloyds deaths.

God bless Davy and Natalie, Mr Trump wrote on Truth Social. Such a tragedy. Haiti is totally out of control. Find the killers NOW!!!

Since February, Haiti has been facing powerful criminal gangs that now control the capital city. Thousands of people have been injured, killed or forced to flee amid the takeover.

This week, President Joe Biden welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto to the White House for a three-day visit. Kenya is working with the United Nations to deploy forces to Haiti amid this crisis. About 1,000 Kenyan officers will arrive in Haiti in the coming days to help quell the chaos, along with additional forces from several other countries.
Zelenskiy says Ukrainian forces now control area where Russia pushed into Kharkiv region

Ukrainian servicemen load shells in an M109 self-propelled howitzer before firing towards Russian troops near the town of Vovchansk

Ukrainian servicemen load shells in an M109 self-propelled howitzer before firing towards Russian troops near the town of Vovchansk

(Reuters) -President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Friday that Ukrainian forces had secured "combat control" of areas where Russian troops staged an incursion this month in northern parts of Kharkiv region.

"Our soldiers have now managed to take combat control of the border area where the Russian occupiers entered," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address.

Zelenskiy's comments, after holding a meeting of military and regional officials in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city, appeared to be at variance with comments by Russian officials.

Viktor Vodolatskiy, a member of Russia's State Duma lower house of parliament, was quoted by Tass news agency as saying Russian forces controlled more than half the territory of the town of Vovchansk, 5 km (three miles) inside the border.

Vodolatskiy was quoted as saying that once Vovchansk was secured, Russian forces would target three cities in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region -- Sloviansk, Kramatorsk and Pokrovsk.

Reuters was unable to verify independently battlefield accounts from either side.

Russian forces pushed into border regions of Ukraine's Kharkiv region this month and Russia's Defence Ministry said they had secured control of about 12 settlements.

Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials had been reporting success in "stabilising" the area.

The Ukrainian military's General Staff, in its evening report on Friday said the situation in Vovchansk was "tense but controlled by the defence forces".

"The Russian army today launched air terror against this town -- eight guided bombs hit the town," it said. Attacks were launched on at least two other settlements north of Kharkiv.

A late-night report by the General Staff said Ukrainian forces had repelled 10 Russian attacks in the area, including around Vovchansk.

It also noted Russian forces had achieved "partial success" in areas near Kupiansk, further east in Kharkiv region, and the Pokrovsk sector where heavy fighting has been taking place further south in Donetsk region.

Ukrainian military bloggers said Ukrainian troops had been holding their ground around Vovchansk and Russian forces were using less infantry in the area and instead firing from a distance, with limited accuracy.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleskander Kozhukhar, Editing by William Maclean)
Zelenskiy visits Kharkiv in show of support for city pounded by Russian strikes

(Reuters) - President Volodymyr Zelenskiy visited Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv on Friday as it faces intensified Russian air attacks amid an offensive push by Moscow's forces into the north of the surrounding region.

The Ukrainian leader met senior military leaders in the city and travelled to the site of a major printing house a day after it was destroyed in a Russian missile attack that killed at least seven people.

"Today I am in Kharkiv... I also received updates on defence operations, particularly in the Vovchansk area, as well as the recovery of damaged energy infrastructure," Zelenskiy said on X.

Russian forces launched a cross-border assault on May 10, driving towards the border town of Vovchansk on one line of attack and pushing towards the village of Lyptsi on the other.

Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraine's top commander, said on Thursday that Russian forces were locked in street fighting in Vovchansk and that they had moved onto a defensive footing near Lyptsi.

Russia says it wants to set up a "buffer" zone in the region in what it calls a response to Kyiv's shelling of Russian border regions such as Belgorod. Russia frequently launches air strikes on Ukraine from the region of Belgorod.

The assault opened a new front in the war in what Kyiv said was an effort to divert its outnumbered troops from the east where the fiercest fighting is taking place.

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city which lies some 30 km from the border with Russia, and the surrounding region have faced daily missile, drone and guided bomb strikes for months.

Most of the energy infrastructure has been severely damaged in the city, which is still home to around 1.3 million people.

"The entire city and region of Kharkiv deserve our support, gratitude, and respect," Zelenskiy said.

(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa, Editing by William Maclean)
Zelensky: Ukrainian forces take back control near state border in Kharkiv Oblast

Ukraine managed to take back control in the Russia-Ukraine border area of Kharkiv Oblast, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his evening address on May 24.

Zelensky visited Kharkiv on the same day, where one of Ukraine's largest printing houses was destroyed a day earlier in a Russian missile attack that killed seven people.

During the visit, Zelensky met with the Ukrainian military and listened to reports from local authorities and representatives of special services.

Zelensky said that Ukrainian forces had taken back control in the area where Russian troops "had entered earlier."

The president thanked every unit that took part in combat missions in the region.

Zelensky added he discussed further tasks on the front line, considering information from Ukraine's military intelligence.

Russia launched a new offensive on May 10 in northern Kharkiv Oblast, focusing its efforts in the directions of Lyptsi and Vovchansk, settlements a few kilometers south of the Russia-Ukraine border.

Moscow's forces advanced as far as 10 kilometers (6 miles) into the region but were halted by the first line of defense.

Russian troops have begun deploying their reserves from different sectors of the front line but fail to support active assault operations in the region, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said on May 23.

Read also: Russias latest offensive into Kharkiv Oblast is stretching Ukrainian defenses

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This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

HANOI, May 24 (Xinhua) -- A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported.

The building, which covers an area of 100 square meters, is located in a narrow alley approximately two meters wide and about 200 meters from Trung Kinh street, making it inaccessible to fire trucks, VnExpress reported.

The rental multistory-building has two rooms in each floor with the first floor used for electric bicycle sales and repairs, Vietnam News Agency reported.

An electric bicycle short circuit was initially cited as the main cause of the flames, which occurred at 0:30 a.m., said the agency.

The case is being further investigated.

A total of 1,555 fires and explosions happened in Vietnam in the first four months of this year, killing 28 people and injuring 26 others.

The fires and explosions caused property losses of some 89.8 billion Vietnamese dong (3.5 million U.S. dollars), according to the country's General Statistics Office. 

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

A victim of a fire accident receives medical treatment at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, May 24, 2024. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

A victim of a fire accident receives medical treatment at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, May 24, 2024. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

A victim of a fire accident receives medical treatment at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, May 24, 2024. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

This photo taken on May 24, 2024 shows a rental building after a fire in Hanoi, Vietnam. A fire at a rental building in Vietnam's capital Hanoi killed 14 people and injured three others early Friday, local media reported. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)
President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 24 visited the Kharkiv printing house destroyed a day earlier in a Russian missile attack that killed seven people.

"Yesterday, a Russian missile strike killed seven people here," he said in a post on social media, adding: "My condolences go out to their families and friends. Twenty-one people were injured."

"The printing facility was destroyed, and tens of thousands of books were burned. A lot of children's books, educational materials, and textbooks."

One of the largest printing facilities in Kharkiv and all of Ukraine.



Yesterday, a Russian missile strike killed 7 people here. My condolences go out to their families and friends. 21 people were injured. The printing facility was destroyed, and tens of thousands of books were pic.twitter.com/ECJsrmv7Bi  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) May 24, 2024

According to regional authorities, Russia used S-300 missiles, fired from inside Russian territory, to strike the factory belonging to one of the largest printing facilities in Ukraine.

"Russian terror must never go unpunished. Step by step, we ensure that the Russian state bears the consequences and costs of its evil," Zelensky added.

On May 23, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba again urged Kyiv's partners to provide additional Patriot air defense systems in the wake of the strike.

"This heinous attack must remind everyone around the world that Ukraine still urgently needs seven 'Patriot' systems," Kuleba said on X, thanking Germany for pledging an additional system last month.

Read also: Russian missile strike reduces Kharkiv printing press to ashes, killing 7 (Photos)

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Zelenskyy in Kharkiv. Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting in Kharkiv on Friday, 24 May, regarding the operational situation in the oblast.

Source: Zelenskyy on social media

Quote: "Today in Kharkiv. Ive held a meeting on the operational situation in the oblast and preparations for the heating season.

There were reports on the defence of the oblast, particularly on the Vovchansk front and the recovery of damaged energy infrastructure. Special attention was paid to providing housing for our people displaced from the territories of Kharkiv Oblast under enemy attacks."

Background:

Russian forces delivered around 15 strikes on civilian infrastructure in Kharkiv and Kharkiv Oblast using S-300/S-400 missiles on 23 May. Russian missiles hit a printing house. Seven people were killed in the attack and 21 more were injured.

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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraines Defence Forces took combat control of the border areas of Kharkiv Oblast where Russian troops had entered earlier.

Source: Zelenskyys video address on 24 May

Quote: "I held a security meeting in Kharkiv with reports from the military [command], heads of security services, oblast and city authorities. Now our warriors have managed to take combat control of the border area, where the Russian occupiers have entered."

Details: Zelenskyy acknowledged each unit that has contributed to the fight against the Russians. "We also discussed our next tasks, taking into account the information from the intelligence [services]," stated the president.

Background:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting in Kharkiv on Friday, 24 May, regarding the operational situation in the oblast.

On 23 May, Russian forces delivered about 15 strikes with S-300/S-400 missiles on the civilian infrastructure of Kharkiv and Kharkiv Oblast, in particular hitting a printing house, on 23 May. Seven people were killed in the attack and 20 more were injured.

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Zelenskyy visits site of Russian attack on printing house in Kharkiv  video

During his visit to Kharkiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the printing facility destroyed by a Russian strike on 23 May.

Source: Zelenskyy on social media

Details: It is noted that this is one of the largest printing facilities in Kharkiv and the whole of Ukraine.

Seven people were killed in a Russian missile strike the day before. Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the families and friends. A total of 21 more people were injured.

A production facility was destroyed, and tens of thousands of books, including many children's books, textbooks, and manuals, burned down due to the strike.

Quote: "Russian terror must never go unpunished. Step by step, we are making sure that the Russian state feels the aftermath and the price of its evil.

Thanks to everyone helping our people! Thank you to everyone defending Ukraine!"

Background:

During a large-scale attack on Kharkiv on Thursday, 23 May, the Russians hit a printing house. Ukraine's National Police reported that the Russians had struck a workshop and the surrounding area with three S-300 missiles. Seven people were killed.

Four people were identified by DNA samples. Those killed are machine operators, a typist and a packer.

A Russian missile strike on the Faktor-Druk printing house in Kharkiv's Osnovianskyi district destroyed 50,000 books.

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Victoria Ou and Justin Huang, both 17, won $50,000 for their microplastic filtration device.

They tested a new technique using ultrasound to filter microplastics from water.

They hope to scale their device for water treatment plants to reduce microplastic pollution worldwide.

Two teenagers from Woodlands, Texas invented a device that could help address one of the most pervasive and challenging forms of pollution on Earth: microplastics.

These microscopic plastic particles show up in the deepest parts of the ocean, at the top of Mount Everest, and are in everything from the dust in your home to your food and water.

By some estimates, we each inhale and ingest a credit card's worth of plastic per week. Then it can end up in our lungs, blood, breastmilk, and testicles.

Victoria Ou and Justin Huang, both 17, hope to prevent that one day with their award-winning device that removes microplastics from water using ultrasonic  or high-frequency  sound waves.

Ou and Huang presented their work at last week's Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles, where top competitors from science fairs worldwide congregated to share their projects and compete for $9 million in prizes.

The Texas duo received first place in their Google-sponsored category, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and they also snagged the $50,000 prize from the Gordon E. Moore Award for Positive Outcomes for Future Generations.

It's gotta feel good to win two prizes in one day. Society for Science/Lisa Fryklund

Though the ultrasonic technique is in its very early stages, the high schoolers hope that one day it could filter the plastic out of your drinking water and from the industrial and wastewater that humans dump into the environment.

"This is the first year we've done this," Huang told Business Insider backstage after receiving their award. "If we could refine this  maybe use more professional equipment, maybe go to a lab instead of testing from our home  we could really improve our device and get it ready for large-scale manufacturing."

While it's unclear how microplastics affect human health, many common chemicals in plastic have been linked to increased risk of cancer, fertility and development issues, and hormone disruption. And we're still a long way from getting rid of microplastics.

The challenge of filtering microplastics

Microplastics have been found in everything from human blood to snow on Mt. Everest. NurPhoto/Getty Images

Last fall, while brainstorming ideas for their ISEF project, Ou and Huang visited a water treatment plant. They wanted to find out whether this type of facility already had tools that could remove microplastics from wastewater.

The answer, they discovered, was no. The EPA doesn't regulate microplastics, the employees told Huang and Ou, so they don't remove them from wastewater.

"We knew, from then, to focus on this issue," Huang told BI.

Even if the EPA began regulating these pernicious plastic particles tomorrow, existing removal methods have problems, Huang said.

One solution is to use chemical coagulants, such as aluminum hydroxide, that  when added to water  clump microplastics together into larger, more easily filtered chunks. However, chemical coagulants can also pollute the environment and mess with the PH of purified water. Plus, they're expensive.

There are also some physical filters available, but they clog easily. And biological solutions, like using enzymes to break down plastics, aren't efficient enough to tackle this problem at scale.

"We wanted to find a solution to this because current solutions aren't really effective," Huang said.

So, Ou and Huang  who have been friends since elementary school and connected over their shared interest in the environment  set out to invent their own environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and efficient solution.

How it works

The device Victoria Ou (left) and Justin Huang (right) invented is small but they hope to scale it up. Chris Ayers/Society for Science

Huang and Ou's device is remarkably small, about the size of a pen. It's essentially a long tube with two stations of electric transducers that use ultrasound to act as a two-step filter.

As water flows through the device, the ultrasound waves generate pressure, which pushes microplastics back while allowing the water to continue flowing forward, Ou explained. What comes out the other end is clean, microplastic-free water.

The two teens tested their device on three common types of microplastics: polyurethane, polystyrene, and polyethylene. In a single pass, their device can remove between 84% and 94% of microplastics in water, according to a press release.

Future work

Victoria Ou and Justin Huang didn't expect to win at ISEF. "I'm still pinching myself trying to figure out if this is real or not," Huang said. Society for Science/Chris Ayers

Ou and Huang believe their technology could be used in wastewater treatment plants, industrial textile plants, sewage treatment plants, and rural water sources. On a smaller scale, it could filter microplastics in laundry machines and even fish tanks.

But first, there's more work to be done. "To reach that stage, I think we need a lot more processing," Ou said. "This is a pretty new approach. We only found one study that was trying to use ultrasound to predict the flow of particles in water, but it didn't completely filter them out yet." The study that inspired the two teens was by New Mexico Tech researchers and published in the peer-reviewed journal Separation and Purification Technology in 2022.

In another 2023 study, researchers at Shinshu University tested a similar ultrasound-filtering method to remove microplastics from water. But Ou and Huang say their device is simpler, more efficient, and the first to use ultrasound to block and filter microplastics directly.

Their technique uses ultrasonic waves to create a pressure wall that blocks microplastics and allows water to flow through, whereas the Shinshu study focused the microplastics into a beam that must then be collected separately, which requires more steps, more infrastructure, and didn't filter as much water.

"I hope we just are able to be able to scale this up, but first we have to refine it because this technology is still at its infancy," Huang said.

Their $50,000 prize could help them get there. In the meantime, though, they're enjoying the moment.

"We were just happy being able to go to ISEF. Originally, we weren't expecting too much, but getting first place and the top award is much more than we ever expected," Ou said.

"This is something that I've been dreaming of my whole life, so I'm still pinching myself trying to figure out if this is real or not," Huang said.

Correction  May 29, 2024: An earlier version of this story misstated the novelty of Ou and Huang's invention. Ou and Huang are not the first to successfully use ultrasound to separate microplastics from water. Previous studies have tested similar methods.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Active Noise Canceling (ANC) technology embedded in leading brand name headphones and earbuds have made the world quieter. With a simple flip of a switch, coffee shop patrons and air travelers can turn down the volume press mute on cacophonous background noises and otherwise distracting chatter. But what happens when you do want to hear one person amidst an otherwise silent crowd speak? Currently, headphones users have to make a choice: Continue on muting out the entirety of their soundscape or switch off noise canceling to hold a conversation. That choice between noise canceling and conversation could one day be a thing of the past thanks to a new AI-enabled Target Speech Hearing system devised by researchers from the University of Washington. In a recent paper published in the Association for Computer Machinery, the researchers claim their custom-made, proof-of-concept headphones can pick out a specific voice from a crowd and then lock on to that voice while simultaneously canceling out surrounding sounds. Headphone wearers simply gaze directly at the intended speakers face and let AI systems capture sound signals filled with their unique speech traits. The end result: A reality where headphones wearers can hold sustained conversations with an individual with noise canceling technology still equipped. Researchers believe this system could one day help people with partial hearing loss or simply make conversing in noisy areas a little less chaotic. In this project, we develop AI to modify the auditory perception of anyone wearing headphones, given their preferences, University of Washington Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering Professor and senior author Shyam Gollakota said in a statement. With our devices you can now hear a single speaker clearly even if you are in a noisy environment with lots of other people talking. How the modified headphones capture an individuals voice To build out their system, the researchers took a pair of off-the-shelf commercial headphones and equipped them with microphones and an onboard AI neural network. In practice, a person wearing the headphone interested in singling out a speaker simply needs to look directly at them while pressing down on a button on the side of the device. That button initiates a process called enrollment where the headphones take in sound signals emanated from the targeted speaker. That signal is centered between microphones located on the left and right headphones The neural network analyzes that signal in real-time to identify specific speech traits connected to that particular person. That data is then sent to another neural network which is tasked with continuously separating the targeted speakers signal away from everything else. The entire enrollment process only takes around three to five seconds. Once enrolled and focused on a targeted speaker, the system will actually improve over time as it continually receives more and more real-time training data. Headphones wearers dont need to awkwardly remain stationary staring into a persons eyes for the system to work either. After that brief initial enrollment process, researchers say the AI headphone system is able to latch on to the voice signal and continue tracking it even after the wearer turns their head. That means a person wearing the headphone can hear the isolated voice even if they are no longer face to face with the speaker. . The advantage of our approach is that the wearer only needs to look at the target speaker for a few seconds during which we enroll the target speaker, the researchers write. Subsequently, the wearer can look in any direction, move their head, or walk around while still hearing the target speaker. In the video above, University of Washington PhD candidate Malek Itani demonstrates using the headphones to lock on to a colleague in a campus common space peppered with other people. After looking at his colleague for several seconds, the speakers somewhat muted voice breaks through the noise canceling fog and is heard clearly. The pair repeated the test again outside, this time in front of a noisy fountain with similar results. Once enrolled, the headphone wearer turned away from the targeted speaker and could continue hearing him as they strolled through the universitys campus. The headphone system used AI technology to extract the voice Malek wants to hear while ignoring all sounds in the environment from that point on, University of Washington PhD student and paper co-author Bandhav Veluri said. Target Speech Hearing could prove useful for both convenience and accessibility Previously, a system like this would have tried to first capture clean, noise free audio from a speaker and use that held the system identity as a speakers characteristics. Here, researchers took a different approach and opted to build a system that could quickly capture signals from a speaker even when they are surrounded by a noisy environment. The results were significant. Researchers claim their system achieves a signal clarity improvement of 7.01 dB using less than five seconds of training data. On a more human level, the researchers had 21 different test subjects spend around 420 minutes rating signal clarity while using the modified headphones in real world outdoor and indoor environments. These test subjects, on average, rated the quality of the target speakers voice nearly twice as high while using the system compared to without it. This system isnt perfect. For now, the enrollment process only works if the target speaker is the loudest voice in the room. Still, researchers are optimistic they can modify future systems to address that shortcoming. Travelers could one day use these headphones to focus in on a tour guide while blocking out background conversation in a busy museum. A pair of friends taking a stroll along a busy city street could similarly use the technology to continue on with a conversation free from potentially disruptive traffic noise. Looking forward, the researchers say they are exploring the possibility of embedding this new stem in brand name headphones and earbuds. One day, they hope the system could potentially be included as an accessibility feature in hearing aids. AI, and especially neural networks, have made great strides in speech processing, Veluri said. That application is really exciting and especially useful for people with hearing challenges where they want to amplify the voice of the person they want to hear. This could be big, this could impact lots of people, Itani added.

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In the next three years, the United Kingdom plans to upgrade its entire fleet of Challenger 2 main battle tanks by modifying the hull and installing a new German-designed turret and gun. But mere months after finalizing the new Challenger 3 design, the 14 Challenger 2 tanks the UK donated to Ukraine began seeing combat against Russian invaders. Ukrainian crews soon had plenty to praise and criticize to the press about the British behemoths battlefield performance.

As that feedback arrived too late to affect Challenger 3s design, Popular Mechanics looks at whether the new tanks designers correctly anticipated what needed improvement.

How does Challenger 3 improve on Challenger 2?

The UK has played a major role in the history of armored warfarepioneering the tank in World War I, fielding thousands of tanks in World War II and the Cold War, and managing to deploy heavy armored brigades to wars in Iraq in 1991 and 2003 without losing a single Challenger 1 or Challenger 2 main battle tank to enemy fire.

But by the 2020s, the British Challenger 2 fleet had shrunk in size and languished without modernization due to austerity measures and growing sentiment that the island nation should focus on air and sea power. A chorus of skeptics argued that heavy, hard-to-deploy main battle tanks were less important on modern battlefields saturated with guided weapons and drones.

But the UKs NATO allies wanted them to continue contributing their fair share of heavy armored forces to defend Eastern Europe against potential Russian attacks. Ultimately, the British government elected to downsize from 227 to just 148 Challenger tanks in 2021, which have been organized into two (battalion-sized) regiments plus a training unit. The remaining tank would be upgraded to the nearly 74-ton Challenger 3 model at a cost of roughly 800 million (equivalent to roughly $1 billion USD, or $6.7 million per refurbished tank.)

Promisingly, Challenger 3 completed its critical design review ahead of schedule in February of 2023. The design is now more or less fixed, and has seemingly avoided problems that notoriously bedeviled the UKs Ajax APCs.

UK Ministry of Defense - Wikimedia Commons

The Challenger 3s new German turret features a new Rheinmetall L55A1 smoothbore 120-millimeter gun with ammunition interchangeable with that of NATO allies, unlike the Challenger 2s unique rifled gun of the same length and caliber.

The turret also incorporates a half-ton Trophy-MV Active Protection system (formerly Trophy Light), which uses radar to detect incoming anti-tank missiles, rockets, and kamikaze drones, and then swats them down using counter-munitions that generate shotgun-like blasts. Trophy also pinpoints the origin point of enemy fire to allow for rapid retaliatory attacks. This Medium Variant model is smaller and weighs 40% less than the standard Heavy Trophy, differing primarily in the number of counter-shots it has (6 instead of 10).

The battle-proven Trophy (by Israeli company Rafael) was successfully tested on Challenger 3 in the fall of 2023,and achieved a 90% intercept rate in over two-dozen test. But so far, only 60 Trophy-MVs have been ordered for the planned 148 Challenger 3s, to be built by the EuroTrophy joint venture in Germany.

Trophy is supplemented by an Israeli Elbit Laser Warning System (ELAWS) that alerts the crew if their tank is targeted by laser targeting systems common to Russian anti-tank missiles, giving the crew an additional warning vector and precious extra seconds to pop smoke and maneuver evasively.

The Challenger 3s turret also features new sightsincluding an additional independent thermal viewer for the tank commander to supplement the gunners sight helping reinforce the long-distance spotting advantage of modern Western tanks. The infrared imaging sensors will be third-generation types capable of greater resolution and range.

The Challenger 3s new fire control system also introduces capability to automatically search for hostile targets, classify them by type, and track them with the gun. More broadly, digitization of onboard systems should facilitate networking with friendly forces, the installation of future upgrades thanks to open-architecture standards, and the sharing of information between crew members.

Though Challenger 2s hull is retained, its insides will change too, including new-generation Horstman hydrogas suspension that should improve stability (and therefore accuracy) when the tank is firing on the move. Theres also a new engine cooling unit to prevent overheating.



Challenger 2 in particular has suffered mobility issues due to having a less powerful motor than the comparable Abrams and Leopard tanks, despite weighing more. Its unclear whether the 3s new TN54E epicycle transmission and Perkins CV12-8A or -9A V12 diesel engine will boast a higher output (some claim 1,350, 1,400 or 1,500 horsepower) or end up having the same 1,200-horsepower output as the Challengers current CV-12-6A diesel. Regardless, the engine (and the tanks electrical architecture) will support increased electrical generation.



Both turret and hull will also feature enhanced protection gained by swapping out the existing combination of internal Chobham and external Dorchester armor plates for new armor packages called Farnham and EPSOM, respectivelythe latter of which is an optional, bolt-on modular armor system.

The upgraded Challenger 3s are expected to enter service between 2027-2030, and serve through at least 2040.

The Challenger 2 in Ukraine

Facebook of Ukraine's 82nd Air Assault Brigade - Wikimedia Commons

Shortly before Challenger 3s design was finalized, in December of 2022, the UK announced it would transfer 14 Challenger 2s to Ukrainea token quantity that succeeded in breaking a political logjam and lead to the donation of over 250 additional Western-designed tanks. Ukrainian crews flew to the UK and trained to operate the tanks over 3 months.

The first Challenger 2s arrived in Ukraine in March, supplied with white phosphorus smoke grenades and both HESH and depleted-uranium kinetic shells for the L30 gun. They were grouped into a tank company of Ukraines newly-raised 82nd Air Assault Brigade, which also operates American-supplied Stryker 8-wheeled armored personnel carriers and German Marder infantry fighting vehicles.

#Ukraine: Oleksii Reznikov, the Ukrainian Minister of Defence, confirms the arrival of the first three Challenger 2 tanks from the UK.pic.twitter.com/QJaOxdSNzn https://t.co/5ayHyfKwoo   Ukraine Weapons Tracker (@UAWeapons) March 28, 2023

The UK also supplied two tracked 67.5-ton Challenger Armored Recovery and Repair Vehicles (CRARRVs) to help tow immobilized Challenger 2sa service that would soon prove essential. These use the hull of a retired Challenger 1 tank (with an added winch capable of pulling up to 108 tons), a 7-ton-class crane for extracting the tanks powerpack, a dozer blade, and specialized welders and cutting tools.

 | British-supplied Challenger Armoured Repair and Recovery Vehicle (CRARRV) in service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.



These vehicles are capable of repairing and recovering Challenger 2 tanks in the field, and were delivered by London to Kyiv in conjunction with the pic.twitter.com/iFWebxNWf6  Status-6 (Military & Conflict News) (@Archer83Able) January 5, 2024

In September of 2023, one of the Challengers 2s was immobilized by Russian artillery in the Battle of Robotyne and subsequently destroyed by a Lancet kamikaze drone after being abandoned by its crew (who all survived). So far, this remains the only Challenger 2 confirmedly destroyed by enemy fire. At least two other Ukrainian Challenger 2s were damaged in battle but repaired, with one requiring a gun barrel replacement.



Video capture from video by Ukrainian military - Wikimedia Commons

More troublingly, however, five remain out of action due to breakdowns and lengthy delays acquiring replacement parts. Both the Challenger 2s wheels and rubber track pads were prone to wearing down, and targeting systems in the turret also reportedly proved quick to fail. Thus, after a year of operational service, only half of the original 14 were operationally available in March of 2024.

The rifled L30s short barrel life (just 500 shots, rather than 1,500 to 3,000 shots expected of Rheinmetalls smoothbore gun) also rapidly proved to be a hindrance.

GENYA SAVILOV - Getty Images

Ukrainian crews also reported the lack of effective anti-personnel shells for the L30, perhaps reflecting either a shortage of HESH rounds or dissatisfaction with HESH as compared to traditional High Explosive Fragmentation (HE-FRAG) rounds. This problem would likely be less acute using a gun compatible with the NATO-standard ammunition used by Ukraines Leopard 2s and Abrams tanks.

Nonetheless, the Challenger 2s tough armor and the accuracy of its L30 gun received positive reviews from Ukrainian tankers. One crew reported that it regularly engaged (and hit) adversaries from over 2.8 miles away, comparing it favorably to the ubiquitous (and less accurate) Soviet/Russian 2A46 125-millimeter gun. The L30 guns stabilization also received praise for allowing accurate shots on the move. Challenger 2 crews were also reportedly aided by drones to help adjust fires at long range.

A short report on the combat use of the British-supplied Challenger 2 tank, which belongs to the Ukrainian 82nd Air Assault Brigade. For secrecy purposes, some details are omitted from the report. pic.twitter.com/WqkqkAT7nJ  Challenger Tank In Ukraine (@ChallengerInUA) January 31, 2024

Though Ukraine considered Challenger 2 to primarily be a sniper tank, knocking out armored vehicles and concrete bunkers from far away (and preferably at night, in order to leverage superior thermal optics), they also said that the 2s were used on occasion to charge Russian trenches in the hopes of terrifying infantry into withdrawing.

Ukrainian crews also noted that Challenger 2s heavy weight, compounded by inadequate engine power, caused frequent bog-downs in muddy Ukrainian soil that required recovery-by-towinga problem witnessed by a visiting reporter from The Sun.

Challenger 2 got stuck in the black Ukrainian mud right on the test site when journalists from the British  Sun newspaper were shooting a story about it



Challenger 2 weighs approximately 64 tons. It is 20 tons heavier than the T-72. pic.twitter.com/K1obeF6Y54  Sharky    (@Jamie04381095) March 13, 2024

Its worth noting that Ukrainian Challenger 2s werent delivered with the add-on armor fitted to British tanks in Iraq, which was meant to proof against rocket-propelled grenades at the cost of increasing weight to a staggering 81 tons. Several instead mount Ukrainian-designed slat armor, including (in some cases) anti-drone cages.

#Ukraine/#Russia :



#British-supplied Challenger 2 MBT, with slat armor on the sides of the hull, in use by the #Ukrainian Armed Forces.



The UK has handed over a total of 14 of these famous tanks to Ukraine.



Source: TikTok user: user7686282195184 pic.twitter.com/HZTctcPb1r     (@praisethesteph) August 16, 2023

Challenger 2 MBT in service with Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, March 2024. Interesting lack of additional slat armor. pic.twitter.com/n0ZRhJOL6D  B-AREV (@trip_to_valkiri) March 6, 2024

However, more recently, some Ukrainian Challenger 2s were sighted without the mods, hinting that they werent implemented fleet-wideor perhaps had been removed for being too cumbersome.

Challenger 2 MBT in service with Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, March 2024. Interesting lack of additional slat armor. pic.twitter.com/n0ZRhJOL6D  B-AREV (@trip_to_valkiri) March 6, 2024

Does Challenger 3 redress Challenger 2s shortcomings?

Overall, Ukraines experience with Challenger 2 affirms the conventional wisdom regarding the tanks strengths and weaknesses. The 2s rifled L30 gun is particularly effective at long range shots, and its armor is formidable. Yet, excessive weight and inadequate engine power have proven a liability when navigating Ukraines often muddy terrain, and the uniqueness of its ammunition and lack of spare parts appear to have hampered its availability for combat operations.

The Challenger 3s new German Rh-120 L55A1 gun will likely ease logistical concerns related to ammunition. Compared to the rifle L30, the L55A1 likely offers better anti-tank performance out to medium range if furnished with modern APFSDS kinetic energy rounds, though this will fall off in accuracy for very long range shots (2 miles+) against both armor and personnel targets.

Facebook of Ukraine's 82nd Air Assault Brigade - Wikimedia Commons

Small drones have also emerged as highly effective anti-tank weapons in Ukraine. Challenger 3s Trophy-MV may be adaptable for defeating kamikaze-type drones (the rival Iron Fist APS system can), but it lacks the elevation to engage those dropping grenades from directly above. Of course, Trophys protection against anti-tank missiles and rockets alone is valuable, but shoring up drone protection is critical.

Perhaps most troubling with Challenger 2 is the issue of mobilitythe base weight of Challenger 3 (before factoring add-on armor) exceeds that of Challenger 2 by a few tons, and it's unclear whether Challenger 3s new engine is actually uprated. If not, the mobility and bog-down problems experienced in Ukraine seem likely to persist. That said, Challenger 3s new transmission, suspension, and engine cooling might help with mobility and reliability.

Lastly, analysts have warned that the UKs downsized armor force lacks the spares to replace vehicles lost in combat, and is highly dependent on allies to fill-out the mass lacking in its supporting force structure. Contrary to the experience of Western armor battling Iraqs conventional forces, fighting in Ukraine has shown that even heavily protected Western tanks can suffer substantial attrition in a high-intensity combatparticularly from drones, mines, artillery, and missiles that bypass formidable frontal armor to hit the top, belly, rear, or tracks.

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By Stephanie Burnett and Helen Coster

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Fake accounts posting about the U.S. presidential election are proliferating on the social media platform X, according to a social media analysis company's report shared with Reuters exclusively ahead of its release on Friday.

Analysts from Israeli tech company Cyabra, which uses a subset of artificial intelligence called machine learning to identify fake accounts, found that 15% of X accounts praising former President Donald Trump and criticizing President Joe Biden are fake. The report also found that 7% of accounts praising Biden, a Democrat, and criticizing Trump, a Republican, are fake.

Cyabra's study is based on a review of posts on the X platform, formerly known as Twitter, over two months beginning March 1. The review included analyzing popular hashtags and determining sentiment in terms of whether posts are positive, negative or neutral.

The analysis shows that newly detected fake accounts had increased up to tenfold during March and April.

The report cites 12,391 inauthentic pro-Trump profiles out of 94,363 total and 803 inauthentic pro-Biden profiles out of 10,065 total.

A spokesperson for X did not respond to a request for comment about the fake accounts, nor did representatives from the White House and Trump campaign.

X and other social media platforms have been under greater scrutiny since 2016, when Russia interfered in the U.S. presidential election in an attempt to boost Trump's candidacy and harm his opponent, Democrat Hillary Clinton. Election officials and online misinformation experts are again watching for misleading narratives ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

The fake accounts praising Trump this cycle are part of a coordinated campaign to sway public opinion and influence online discussions, Cyabra said. The report did not identify the individuals or groups behind the campaign.

Cyabra said it made that determination based on evidence including the use of identical hashtags and the fact that fake accounts published posts and comments at the same time. The report found that the fake pro-Trump accounts pushed two main messages: "Vote for Trump" and "Biden is the worst president the U.S. has ever had."

"The level of coordination suggests that there is a nefarious objective and that there is a whole operation in order to change people's opinion, said Cyabras vice president, Rafi Mendelsohn.

The fake accounts backing Biden are not part of a coordinated campaign, the report said, as the hallmarks of a coordinated campaign - such as fake accounts posting at the same time - were not identified.

X, which was publicly held until its 2022 takeover by billionaire Elon Musk, has long downplayed the use of fake accounts on its platform. Twitter said in May 2022 that fewer than 5% of its daily active users were "false or spam" based on an internal review of accounts. At the time, Cyabra had estimated that 13.7% of Twitter profiles were inauthentic.

In an X post on April 4, Musk wrote that a system purge of bots and trolls was under way and that the company will be tracing the people responsible and bringing the full force of the law to bear upon them. In October the company tested its Not a Bot program in New Zealand and the Philippines to combat bots and spammers.

(Reporting by Stephanie Burnett in Amsterdam and Helen Coster in New York; Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Matthew Lewis)
MANILA, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Two suspected rebels were killed and a government soldier wounded in a shootout in South Cotabato province in the southern Philippines, the Philippine military said Friday.

In a report, the military said the fighting broke out between a band of the New People's Army (NPA) rebels and government forces around 10 a.m. local time on Thursday while the troops were in the area to serve an arrest warrant.

The military said the troops recovered a caliber 45 pistol and a homemade explosive from the two slain rebels who were pronounced dead at a local hospital.

NPA rebels have been fighting the government troops since 1969. Despite the decreasing number of fighters, NPA rebels concentrate their attacks on rural areas and have skirmishes with the military.

Military data showed that the NPA's personnel strength has declined since its peak of around 25,000 armed members in the 1980s. 
Harris announces plans to help 80% of Africa gain access to the internet, up from 40% now

Kenya's President William Ruto, left, and Vice President Kamala Harris participate in a discussion at the U.S.-Kenya Business Forum at the Chamber of Commerce in Washington, Friday, May 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Vice President Kamala Harris announced Friday the formation of a new partnership to help provide internet access to 80% of Africa by 2030, up from roughly 40% now.

The announcement comes as follow-through on Harris' visit to the continent last year and in conjunction with this week's visit to Washington by Kenyan President William Ruto. Harris and the Kenyan leader had a public chat on Friday at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce about how public-private partnerships can increase economic growth.

Many could rightly argue that the future is on the continent of Africa, said Harris, noting that the median age in Africa is 19, a sign of the potential for economic growth. It is not about, and simply about aid, but about investment and understanding the capacity that exists.

Africa has struggled to obtain the capital needed to build up its industrial and technological sectors. The United Nations reported last year that foreign direct investment in the continent fell to $45 billion in 2022, from a record high $80 billion in 2021. Africa accounted for only 3.5% of foreign direct investment worldwide, even though it makes up roughly 18% of the global population.

Besides launching the nonprofit Partnership for Digital Access in Africa, Harris announced an initiative geared toward giving 100 million African people and businesses in the agricultural sector access to the digital economy.

The African Development Bank Group along with Mastercard, among other organizations, will help form the Mobilizing Access to the Digital Economy Alliance, or MADE. The alliance will start a pilot program to give digital access to 3 million farmers in Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria, before expanding elsewhere.

Harris, a Democrat and the first female U.S. vice president, also announced that the Women in the Digital Economy efforts to address the gender divide in technology access have now generated more than $1 billion in public and private commitments, with some federal commitments pending congressional approval.

___

Follow the AP's coverage of Vice President Kamala Harris at https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  Illinois could soon join a handful of states with digital IDs and drivers licenses.

House Bill 4592, introduced by Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago), passed by a unanimous vote in the state senate Friday. The bill cleared the state House of Representatives earlier this week and now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker for his signature.

The legislation would not eliminate physical drivers licenses but would allow the state to offer them as a companion to a physical card.

Several states, including Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, and Utah already have digital IDs.

Some Transportation Security Administration security checkpoints are equipped to accept digital IDs, with support expanding.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Intel's next-gen Lunar Lake processors will launch in new AI PCs sooner than you think, hot on the heels of Snapdragon X and ARM

What you need to know

Intel's next generation of mobile processors, codenamed Lunar Lake, will be released with OEM devices in Q3 2024 (between July and September).

Primarily focused on AI with an upgraded 45+ TOPS NPU, Lunar Lake will also include Intel's codename 'Battlemage' GPU on what it calls the "XPU" system-on-a-chip.

Details on new Performance (P-Cores) and Efficiency (E-Cores) will be available later this month, along with Arrow Lake desktop processors following at Computex in June.

Intel has set an official release schedule for its next-generation processors, still codenamed "Lunar Lake," which promises to support all-new Copilot+ AI features. Targeting Q3 2024, covering the months between July and September, consumers can expect to see "more than 80" new laptops boasting AI PC certification "in time for the holiday season."

Building on the current generation of its Core Ultra processors, previously codenamed "Meteor Lake," Intel expects to ship "more than 40 million" AI PCs throughout 2024.

Intel boasts triple the performance over Meteor Lake with the next-generation Lunar Lake chips. While Intel still refers to an overall TOPS score that combines its CPU, GPU, and NPU performance, advertising "45+ TOPS" shows a readiness to tackle Qualcomm's Snapdragon X platform as the "great PC reset" begins and AI PCs become the norm.

Production is already underway for Q3 2024

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Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

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Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

Intel is already mass-producing wafers for Lunar Lake chips and is on track to release devices from "more than 20" OEMs powered by various processors in the new range by Q3 2024. If you were considering upgrading to a new laptop, it's worth holding off until early July to see how these new AI PCs compare to the broad range featuring ARM-based Snapdragon X chips. Intel's priorities mostly align with Qualcomm's, pushing for significant enhancements to battery life with a focus on AI, but Lunar Lake has a few trump cards on its side.

We are excited to see Lunar Lake come to market with a 40+ TOPS NPU which will deliver Microsofts Copilot+ experiences at scale when available.

As exciting as the prospect of a Windows on Arm renaissance is, Intel has the largest install base with traditional x86-64 architecture, which lends to broader support for independent software vendors (ISVs.) Artificial intelligence is an undeniable focus for Lunar Lake, appealing to developers with existing AI projects, including large language models (LLMs) like Microsoft Phi-2 and Llama 2. What's more exciting for Lunar Lake is its promise to support Copilot+ soon after launch. No, Intel doesn't officially support its features from the start, but any NPU rated for over 40 TOPS can run Copilot locally, so Lunar Lake is certainly capable.

New cores and Xe2 Battlemage GPU

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Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

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Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

All new "Lion Cove" Performance (P-core) and "Skymore" Efficiency (E-core) additions are coming to the Lunar Lake SoC (or XPU, as the company calls it,) but I'll have to wait until I visit Intel in person to learn more about the specifics. An "Advanced Low-Power Island" upgrade also has Intel doubling down on Low-Power Efficiency (LPE) cores with more than double the compute power over Meteor Lake while simultaneously extending potential battery life with performance-per-watt improvements and upgrades to Intel's Thread Director that monitors it all.

With breakthrough power efficiency and the trusted compatibility of x86 architecture, we will deliver the most competitive offering in our history with Lunar Lake.

On the graphics side, Intel's anticipated and still-codenamed Battlemage GPU IP will appear in Lunar Lake before anywhere else. Its Xe2 Matrix eXtensions (XMX) math engines will handle visual-centric AI acceleration rated at 60 TOPS, bringing the platform to an overall 100+ TOPS. It's still a relatively new metric for measuring AI performance, but Intel defines TOPS as "how fast you could go, but your chosen software will determine how fast you will go." Nevertheless, it's an exciting advancement after Intel already pushed for its Arc graphics in current-gen Core Ultra chips.

x86-64 ultralight laptops charge ahead

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Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

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Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

Based on its own prideful claims, Intel shipped more AI-capable processors in Q1 of 2024 than its rivals managed throughout all of 2023. Targeting Q3, 2024 for Lunar Lake is the most aggressive production timeline it's set in a while, targeting an ultra-fast turnaround and delivering new AI PCs into Q4. Coming up against Qualcomm's outrageously low-power offerings in the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus, Lunar Lake promises a "radical" low-power architecture, claiming "you've probably never seen x86 power characteristics quite like this."

While Qualcomm offered an extensive suite of open-access benchmarking results for Snapdragon X, Intel stuck with comparisons against competitors with tests in Microsoft Teams. Lunar Lake boasts 20-30% lower power consumption, which should be expected, but its chips were tested against a previous-generation AMD Ryzen 7 7840U and Qualcomm's older Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 processors. Still, Intel expects to provide the fastest AI acceleration available towards the second half of 2024, plus another 50% gain in Lunar Lake GPU performance, alongside power consumption better than "anything you've ever seen before."

Intel Lunar Lake preview brief for press

On the AI side of performance metrics, Lunar Lake is compared against Snapdragon X Elite, and Intel prides itself on x86-64 software performance. While both chips offer comparable NPUs, the Lunar Lake options could perform better with software optimization from developers already familiar with the architecture rather than learning ARM64. CPU-specific performance gains aren't being revealed yet but are classed as 'faster' in Intel's pre-briefing with confidence in its behind-the-scenes tests against Snapdragon X Elite and Ryzen 8840U.

Still pushing ahead with its "AI PC Acceleration Program," Intel continues its efforts with over 100 ISVs to bring artificial intelligence computing to "more than 100 million PCs through 2025." It has stiff competition against Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X platform, which prioritizes remarkably similar goals. Still, Lunar Lake has its appeal as an ultra-powerful player in the traditional x86-64 architecture category. I'll be meeting with Intel's team later this month to learn more about Intel's next generation of processors (and the generation after that), so stay tuned for more as this rapidly evolving generation of AI PCs continues.
The unconventional ways Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and other tech leaders like to run their companies

Tech titans like Elon Musk and Tim Cook run some of the world's biggest companies.

In so doing, they've employed some outright strange management practices.

From banning PowerPoints to having 50 direct reports, here are tech leaders' most unconventional management habits.

They're some of the best-known CEOs in the world. But while we may know more about their flashy real estate buys and jet-setting habits, we don't have as good a glimpse into how they run their companies behind closed doors.

Here are some of the most notable management quirks from tech's biggest names:

Jeff Bezos

Amazon cofounder Jeff Bezos had some special rules for meetings. AP/Ted S. Warren

When he was still CEO of Amazon, Bezos employed the "two-pizza rule" to limit teams to only as many people as could be fed with two pizzas.

He also famously banned PowerPoints, instead telling employees to write six-page memos for meetings, which began with attendees silently reading the document.

Elon Musk

Elon Musk isn't a big fan of people being in meetings if they're not contributing value. Christian Marquardt - Pool/Getty Images

Musk, the CEO of companies including Tesla and X, formerly Twitter, has described himself as a "nanomanager." Consistent with that style, Musk doesn't like delegating and last year told Tesla staff he wanted to personally approve all new hires .

Musk also encourages people to leave meetings rather than stay in some cases. In a 2018 email to Tesla staff, he said there should generally be fewer, shorter meetings and wrote, "Walk out of a meeting or drop off a call as soon as it is obvious you aren't adding value."

He's also said employees can feel free to buck the chain of command to get things done.

"Anyone at Tesla can and should email/talk to anyone else according to what they think is the fastest way to solve a problem for the benefit of the whole company," he wrote in an email to Tesla staff a few years back. "You can talk to your manager's manager without his permission, you can talk directly to a VP in another dept, you can talk to me, you can talk to anyone without anyone else's permission."

Mark Zuckerberg

Mark Zuckerberg made Meta a flatter organization after the pandemic. Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Images

Meta's chief executive also doesn't like to delegate, saying leaders should "make as many decisions and get involved in as many things as you can."

Zuckerberg has also tried to cut back on bloat and made the company flatter during his famous "Year of Efficiency," saying he doesn't like a structure of "managers managing managers."

Zuckerberg also famously likes to wear the same outfit every day to save brainpower for more important decisions.

Jensen Huang

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has an incredibly large number of direct reports. Noah Berger/Getty Images

Huang believes CEOs should have the most direct reports of anyone, and it shows.

The Nvidia CEO has a lot of direct reports  50 to be exact.

And as Nvidia enjoys a boom time as its share price soars amid the AI era, Business Insider first reported that its CEO also awarded employees with a "Jensen special grant" that boosted their stock awards by 25% this year.

Tim Cook

You'd better be ready for a question from Tim Cook  and plenty of follow-ups. Andrej Sokolow/picture alliance via Getty Images

Cook grills employees in meetings to make sure they know their stuff.

As a former Apple employee told Cult of Mac editor Leander Kahney for his 2019 book on Cook, "He'll ask you ten questions. If you answer them right, he'll ask you ten more. If you do this for a year, he'll start asking you nine questions. Get one wrong, and he'll ask you 20 and then 30."

Larry Page and Sergey Brin

Google's cofounders attribute their "20% time" policy with spawning AdSense and Google News. AP

Google's cofounders implemented the "20% time" policy encouraging employees "to spend 20 percent of their time working on what they think will most benefit Google," like a side project besides their usual work, they wrote in 2004.

Page and Brin, in fact, credit the rule with the creation of AdSense and Google News.

Read the original article on Business Insider
With the rise of ChatGPT, artificial intelligence has become one of the buzziest topics in education, holding space as both a point of concern and a symbol of the future.

At the 56th annual Carroll F. Johnson Scholastic Achievement Dinner, hosted by the Lower Hudson Council of School Superintendents to honor valedictorians and salutatorians, the region's top students were hopeful about a future where AI plays a bigger role but aware that the technology needs to improve.

"We shouldn't be fearing these things. We shouldn't be angry at them. We should be figuring out ways to use them to...not evade work but to enhance our work," said Julia Whalen, valedictorian of Yorktown High School.

Julia Whalen, valedictorian of Yorktown High School

AI in education

Students at the Wednesday dinner said AI's current uses were of limited help, but they envision a future where a more powerful model could have both positive and negative effects.

"It's going to change the way we see education," said Whalen, who plans on studying history at Bowdoin College.

While AI can be used to try to avoid doing work, the more "inspiring examples" Whalen had seen were "people who used it to enhance their work," by generating prompts or using it to put the finishing touches on an essay, they said.

Erik Ghalib, Hastings High School's salutatorian, who plans to attend Middlebury College and major in political science, said AI is now more useful for menial tasks, such as reformatting documents. Ghalib said he has found Microsoft Copilot to be more helpful than ChatGPT because it cites its sources.

"But when you're asking it to write something or compile information, I find that in its current state, it's really faulty," Ghalib said.

Erik Ghalib and Sonya Lasser, Hastings High School salutatorian and valedictorian respectively

Sonya Lasser, Hastings High School valedictorian, who plans on attending Duke University and majoring in mechanical engineering, said she tried to use ChatGPT to study for a physics test this year with poor results. Lasser gave it multiple choice questions only for it to give her an answer that wasn't an option. Or it would give wrong information, she said.

Sophia Lam, salutatorian at Yorktown High School, who plans on attending Cornell to study chemistry or physics, said a prompt for a college supplemental essay asked for a reflection on a response from AI.

"I feel like just writing a reflection on what AI chose to write is such an interesting way to look at it," Lam said. "And then it's also interesting to see like what AI says versus what you would say."

ChatGPT "can be seen as a tool to get out of writing things," Lam said, but she thinks it can be a helpful tool to write down ideas. "But maybe we shouldn't become too dependent on it."

AI and art

Ghalib believes AI will improve, but right now "some of the stuff that we are seeing from it is scary in terms of what it can do to art." AI can sing and even impersonate artists, Ghalib said. Problems come when AI-generated music goes viral and makes money instead of being created by a real person who could make money from it, Ghalib said.

Whalen noted authors are using AI to create art for book covers.

Still, Whalen is less concerned about AI as a threat to artists. Art and writing created by humans remain more appealing because they "have an actual soul behind them," they said.

Societal impacts

Soon-to-be graduates described AI's possible uses and its potential broader, societal impacts.

"I think what it's going to probably end up doing as it improves is enhance the divide between like the educated and non-educated," Ghalib said, meaning that more educated people will be able to recognize when AI is wrong. "If you have not been taught to identify those things, you're going to take its hallucinations as fact."

"I think it's going to just perpetuate the amount of people that aren't going to know how to write, the amount of people that aren't going to know how to learn," Ghalib said. "Because it's going to be doing so much for us."

He doesn't necessarily think AI will take experts' jobs, but "I think it's going to probably hinder the amount of people that are going to reach the expert level."

Lakeland valedictorian Kris Dominic said a good use for AI would be simpler tasks, idea generation or to get inspiration.

"The human mind is going to have a greater range compared to AI, like no matter how well AI gets developed," said Dominic, who plans to attend New York Institute of Technology for its pre-med track.

Kris Dominic, Lakeland High School valedictorian

AI in STEM careers

Maya Richards, Valhalla High School valedictorian, who plans on studying biochemistry at Cornell in the fall, learned about AI in a business Olympics class  that it could be useful in research and business, particularly in determining how feasible an idea is, or how well an idea will work or what impacts it might have.

Richards plans to pursue a career in pathology, the branch of medicine that diagnoses diseases, and she could see AI helping with that.

Maya Richards, Valhalla High School valedictorian

Richards recognizes the downsides, too. "Putting your ideas into AI might limit communication with other people." There needs to be a balance, she said.

Regulating AI: How schools are trying to find balance between ChatGPT, keeping student information secure

Whalen said they could see using AI more in the context of STEM and less in a creative capacity. But Whalen would also be open to using it for other tasks, like summarizing a long document instead of having to read the whole thing.

Johan Easaw, valedictorian of Walter Panas High School in the Lakeland school district, who plans on majoring in computer engineering at Purdue University, thinks regulations on AI pose an "unnecessary hinderance to technological advancement."

Johan Easaw, Yorktown High School valedictorian

Easaw believes ethical concerns can be addressed in the development of AI, and he aims to develop models that have human-like values. Doing so would allow AI to make better decisions and "prevent their use for harm," Easaw said.

In a class at Manhattan College last summer, Patille Guekjian, salutatorian of Walter Panas High School, said they discussed the possible use of AI learning through images to identify defective parts, like in an engine for a plane, for example. But right now, "artificial intelligence is so new," Guekjian said, so "I think that it shouldn't be the sole reason for saying a part has no defects."

Patille Guekjian, Walter Panas salutatorian

But in the future, when AI is more developed, relying on AI for something like that may be possible, Guekjian said.

Guekjian, who plans to major in aerospace engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, said the use of AI should be slowly integrated and backed up by a human.

Still, "I'm more of on the optimistic side," Guekjian said.

Marc Baiocco, President of the Lower Hudson Council of School Superintendents, welcomes the guests during the 56th Carroll F. Johnson Scholastic Achievement Dinner at Villa Barone Hilltop Manor in Mahopac, May 22, 2024.

Scholarship winners

Sixteen graduates were awarded scholarships of at least $1,000 by the Lower Hudson Council of School Superintendents at Wednesday's dinner. Students can renew the scholarships each year they are in good standing with their universities.

These are the scholarship winners:

Corporate Scholarship

Abass Na-Aata, Poughkeepsie High School

Kailee Mastropietro, Mahopac High School

Rylee McGinnis, Rockland BOCES Career and Technical Education Center

Katie Molina-Salazar, Yonkers Middle High School

Damaris Ferrer, Mount Vernon STEAM Academy

Engineering/Architecture/Math/Science Scholarship

Claire Lewis, Arlington High School

Jonathan Bai, Croton-Harmon High School

Dahlia Kordit, Nanuet Senior High School

Penelope Cloonan, Yonkers Middle High School

Technology Scholarship

Glenn Moeller, Brewster High School

Judith Johnson Opportunity Scholarship

Emmanuelle Nickerson, FDR High School

Maylin Vasquez, Peekskill High School

Christian Laquidara, Clarkstown North High School

Haider Choudhry, Yonkers Middle High School

Stephen A. Perelson Memorial Scholarship

Britaney Sinclair, Mount Vernon High School

Bruce Bothwell Memorial Scholarship

Ava D-Arcy, White Plains High School

Frances Wills, Regent with the New York State Education Department, announces the Bruce Bothwell Memorial Scholarship during the 56th Carroll F. Johnson Scholastic Achievement Dinner at Villa Barone Hilltop Manor in Mahopac, May 22, 2024.

Contact Diana Dombrowski at ddombrowski@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @domdomdiana.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Lower Hudson NY valedictorians, salutatorians talk AI in art and STEM
A new Windows 11 build is rolling out in Microsofts Beta channel, and it includes an app thats been caught up in some controversy. Build 22635.3646 includes the PC Manager app for devices in China by default. This app is already available through the Microsoft Store, but the update suggests the app might be part of Windows 11 more broadly soon.

PC Manager falls in the category of system optimizers along the lines of the Razer Cortex Game Booster. It cleans out temporary files, frees memory thats not being used, and digs deep into your hard drive to clean out unused files. According to Microsoft, it can even reduce ads and app pop-up interruptions. An system optimizer from Microsoft sounds great as an official release in Windows 11.

The problem is that PC Manager has already been caught up in some controversy. Neowin discovered that the app includes affiliate links, including tracking, to Chinese utilities that add functionality to Microsoft Word and Powerpoint. Another user on Reddit found that the app would revert your default start page in the Edge browser to Bing  something Microsoft has attempted to sway users into doing dozens of times before.

Judy Sanhz / Digital Trends

This type of sneaky intrusion is expected out of free software you pick up any random place online, but this is an official Microsoft app available though the Microsoft Store. Its seen a string of problems, too. About a week ago, the app received a number of one-star reviews after a Windows Update automatically uninstalled PC Manager and rendered it inaccessible through the Microsoft Store. On the PC Manager subreddit, another user posted three days ago that the app showed a pop-up once per session, at least, that asked them to start PC Manager after they uninstalled the app. So much for reducing app pop-up interruptions.

At this time, PC Manager is only a default app in China, and only for this new Windows 11 build in the Beta channel. However, Microsoft tests builds there for a wider release. Its a clear sign that Microsoft intends to include PC Manager as a default app in Windows 11, at least in China, and perhaps even globally in the future.

Thats not inherently a bad thing. There are dozens of these system optimization apps that do more harm than good to your PC, so an official take from Microsoft could keep unsuspecting users safe from these dubious downloads. If its just another way for Microsoft to get users onto Edge and Bing, as well as redirect them to affiliate services, then its not worth whatever performance bump it can offer.
HEATH, Ohio (WCMH)  Microsoft is the latest tech giant with plans to build data centers in Licking County, the company confirmed to NBC4 nearly a year after first buying land in the area.

With the recent purchase of 227 acres at 975 Thornwood Dr. in Heath  costing over $32 million  Microsofts total land bought in Licking County has surpassed 700 acres. Other Licking County land purchased by Microsoft include a 197-acre parcel near Johnstown, three parcels totaling 291 acres in Pataskala and a 16 acres in New Albany.

Differences appear in Intels latest renderings of Ohio One plant in New Albany

After making its first purchase of the Johnstown land at 3287 Beech Rd. in June 2023, Microsoft declined to comment. Nearly a year later, it confirmed plans to construct data centers in Licking County. A Microsoft representative even indicated that construction has already begun.

Microsoft purchased this property in Licking County, Ohio, to support datacenter construction already underway in the area, Bowen Wallace of Microsoft said.

The plans are further confirmed on the Central Ohio page of Microsofts website, which also includes commitments to the Licking County community.

We look forward to actively participating in the community and investing in social programs that support our goals of promoting environmental sustainability and skill development and training for meaningful employment in the technology sector, the website said.

Rapid development as tech sets roots in Licking County

Licking County and surrounding areas have seen the start of a tech boom since Intel came to town in 2022.

The start of work on Intels $20 billion Ohio One plant in New Albany  scheduled to be finished between 2026 and 2027 before becoming operational between 2027 and 2028  has led to more tech companies moving into what the city is calling its Silicon Heartland. The companies building their first or additional data centers in the region include Amazon Data Services, DBT Data New Albany, and Google.

Tech growth in the area has led to investments being made in the community, including a $90 million project to fund local and state transportation projects. When announced in July 2023, Gov. Mike DeWine said the project goes hand in hand with Intels New Albany endeavor.

When we announced Intel, we committed to building infrastructure and to help the local community build infrastructure that would handle the extra traffic from Intel and also the other traffic that is going to come from other companies that are coming to this region, DeWine said.

Why Ashley Madison says Columbus is the top city signing up for affairs

Additionally, a 408-unit apartment building near New Albany was approved by Columbus in mid-December. The Moores Edge development from Columbus-based developer Thrive Companies was named after Intels co-founder, indicating the projects close ties to Intel and demonstrating the computer chip manufacturers impact on local growth.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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A twice-flown SpaceX capsule has debuted on public display next to the second Mercury spacecraft to launch an American into Earth orbit and first Apollo command module to fly astronauts to the moon.



The last first-generation Dragon capsule that SpaceX built to ferry cargo to and from the International Space Station went on exhibit on Sunday (May 19), as part of a renovated gallery at the newly renamed Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. A $125 million donation by hedge fund manager Kenneth C. Griffin  the largest contribution in the museum's history  helped to underwrite refreshing the Henry Crown Space Center, including adding the SpaceX display.



"This is the first major renovation to the Henry Crown Space Center since it opened in 1986," said Voula Saridakis, curator at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, in an interview with collectSPACE.com. "Before this, the gallery was current up until the space shuttle and the crewed and uncrewed missions through the 1990s."



"We have now updated all the content," Saridakis said. "It is still an exhibit about space exploration since the 1950s, but now it emphasizes space exploration from the past 20 to 30 years."

Related: SpaceX: Facts about Elon Musk's private spaceflight company

closeup view of a white space capsule on display in a museum

Astronaut Scott Carpenter's 1962 "Aurora 7" Mercury spacecraft and the Apollo 8 command module that flew Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders to the moon in 1968 remain star attractions, but so is now the SpaceX Dragon and other, more recent artifacts added to the gallery.



"When you first walk into the Henry Crown Space Center, that is where we have the Apollo and Mercury and you take in that history," Saridakis said. "Then, as you move towards the back, that is where you see the entry to the Dragon enclosure, go into it and experience the more recent missions, see what they represent and why they are important."



Dragon C113, which was donated by SpaceX and delivered to the museum two years ago, logged 64 days on its two missions to the space station. It was used for the 12th and 17th commercial resupply services (CRS) flights launched under contract for NASA in 2017 and 2019, respectively. Among its deliveries were the Cosmic-Ray Energetics and Mass (CREAM) science instrument and the STP-H6 demo, the latter built to perform the first space-based X-ray band communications.



C113 is the only second Dragon spacecraft to go on permanent public display after another of the first generation capsules at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. SpaceX also exhibits a flown Dragon inside its Hawthorne, California headquarters.

a white space capsule on display in a museum, lit up by blue lighting in a dark room

As part of the renovation, the Dragon and Apollo 8 were placed in custom-built conical glass cases that surround visitors in the capsules' journeys using lighting effects and video walls.



"We have created these new glass cases for both the Apollo and Dragon that provide 360 [degree] views. Both are backdropped by videos, media pieces that are very immersive, such that you feel like you're actually in space," Saridakis told collectSPACE. "Radial lights extend in line throughout the exhibit, and there are also lights inside the cases that work with the backdrop videos as you watch the footage from their launch, time floating through space and reentry."



Other artifacts in the Henry Crown Space Center benefit from new effects as well. "Aurora 7" has its own video wall, and an Apollo lunar module test article has been placed into a recreation of its original surroundings.



"It is a fantastic, unique artifact in that it's the only one used by all 12 astronauts [to walk on the moon] to train at the Kennedy Space Center. We reimagined that space so it looks more like the training area, rather than trying to present the lunar module like it was actually on the moon."

a model of a moon lander on display in a museum, with two spacesuit-wearing mannequins in front of it

RELATED STORIES:

 SpaceX's Dragon: First private spacecraft to reach the space station

 Aurora 7: Astronaut Scott Carpenter's Mercury flight in pictures

 The Apollo Program: How NASA sent astronauts to the moon

Visitors to the Henry Crown Space Center can also now see tools and food used by Apollo-era astronauts and a prototype garment and biofeedback belt worn by Mae Jemison, the first U.S. woman of color to fly into space and a Chicago native.



Saridakis said that she plans for even more to come.



"The Apollo and Mercury are on loan from the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, but we are definitely looking to add more space artifacts to our permanent collection here at the Museum of Science and Industry," she said.

Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2024 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved.
SINGAPORE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Singaporean police arrested 290 suspects for scam offenses from May 10 to May 23, according to the latest statement from police.

The suspects were involved in over 1,000 cases, including job scams, investment scams, phishing scams, e-commerce scams, internet love scams, and government official impersonation scams.

Police said the victims lost over 5 million Singapore dollars (3.7 million U.S. dollars).

The suspects were under investigation for cheating, money laundering, or providing payment services without a license. 
Used by The Beatles and Brian May, the Vox AC30 is one of the all-time great amps  what makes it sound so good?

Mention the term British clean to any discerning guitar fan and the Vox AC30 will immediately spring to mind. The highly coveted tube amp has been championed by generations of musicians, and is behind the emergence of entire genres and tones while in the hands of the countless artist who have embraced it.

Tracing the AC30's sonic trail across its illustrious 65-plus-year history reveals its timeless allure is no mere coincidence.

The Vox Amplifiers name was first etched onto an amp in 1958. Amp designer and guitarist Dick Denney was plugged in to the rapidly evolving world of electric guitar technology in the late '50s.

He brought his specialist knowledge to JMI Corporations  the original owner of the Vox brand  and produced the Vox AC1/15, which was later renamed the AC15. Denney's amp design offered guitarists a notable presence and volume that cut through on stage, becoming a staple of the UK music scene.

As music delved into the rock 'n' roll era, larger venues and enthusiastic crowds demanded increased on-stage volume. Denney took it up a notch, literally cranking up the design by doubling the AC15's components. The Shadows and a young Beatles, fresh from their Hamburg residencies, were some of the first acts to hit the road with AC30s.

The Vox name gained spotlight on stage and earned its reputation as the quintessential guitar amp brand of the British Invasion.

Who plays Vox AC30 amps?

The guitar player of the British band Queen Brian May performs at Madison Square Garden on the 'A Day At The Races' tour, New York, United States, 5th February 1977

The distinctive jangly guitar tones of the '60s from the likes of the Beatles, Shadows, Hank Marvin, and the Kinks all came from the Vox AC30. As the '70s unfolded, the rapid adoption of effects pedals gave the amp a fresh voice.

In this era, Brian May utilized his self-made "Red Special" guitar alongside a Rangemaster Treble Booster pedal, crafting his famous ultra-treble tones that highlighted the AC30's sparkling high frequencies.

"The Vox AC30 works in a different way from most guitar amps," May once observed in an interview with Total Guitar. "It does give you that smooth transition into compression and distortion, which to me is just the voice that I always wanted."

His affinity for the amp further solidified the status of the AC30, which had already gained a reputation as a go-to amp for guitarists.

Then, during the '80s digital revolution, The Edge of U2 seamlessly integrated his AC30 with cutting-edge pedal technology, incorporating the Electro Harmonix Deluxe Memory Man  among many other effects  to craft bright, attack-heavy, digitally delayed guitar layers.

In a different musical realm, jazz virtuoso John Scofield, known for his versatile and responsive musicality, embraced the AC30 for its bite and capacity to cut through the mix in both live and studio settings.

What tubes does the AC30 use?

Vox AC30

With a significantly higher output, the AC30 utilized four of the EL84 tubes commonly found in record player power amp stages. With the help of additional ECC83 (12AX7) preamp tubes, the amp circuit signal is gain-staged to have enough headroom for clean tones, but easily break up when pushed.

As it reaches higher volumes, the AC30 gets pushed into saturation, accentuating the amps colorful midrange of spikey frequencies.

In the 1960s, amplifier wattage was measured at its clean headroom limit before tube breakup. Therefore, despite the 30-watt output of an AC30 appearing unassuming by todays standards, these amps can reach surprisingly loud levels.

What does an AC30 sound like?

Even today, compared to its historical counterparts in Fender and Marshall, the Vox AC30 maintains an unmistakable character absent in the open cleans of a Twin or the roundness of a JTM45.

Renowned for its honky midrange and sparkling high-end frequencies, the AC30 excels in cutting through dense mixes, providing guitarists with clarity in both live settings and recordings.

The initial lack of low-end at lower volumes might dissuade some players seeking the warmth often found in other amps. This effect is more pronounced in the top boost versions and when attempting to replicate the Brian May-inspired technique of pairing the AC30 with a Treble Booster.

However, with increased volume  even with the top boost maximized for full jangle  the lower frequencies progressively fill out.

What speakers does an AC30 use?

Vox AC30 speakers

The original AC30s initially featured Jensen Alnico Blue speakers, later replaced by Celestion Greenbacks to cut manufacturing costs. Consequently, some of the iconic tones heard on '60s records owe their character to the Alnico Blue speakers.

AC30s with Alnico Blue speakers are often preferred for their cleaner, subtly rolled-off tone compared to the Greenbacks, which contribute to the perception of AC30s having a slightly harsh character.

As both speaker types are pushed to higher volumes, the distinctions become more pronounced. The Alnico Blue speakers respond with an increased bell-like top end and natural compression at high volumes, setting them apart from Greenbacks and delivering the sought-after, authentic tone associated with '60s records.

What's the best AC30?

Nashville guitarist Jim Lill, renowned for his session work and YouTube channel debunking tonal myths, explored speaker cabinet tone in his video, "Where Does Tone Come From in a Speaker Cabinet?".

Lill noted a manufacturing difference in vintage and reissue AC30s  namely, the presence of cross-shaped wooden planks in front of the speakers on vintage models that are absent in reissues. Through an A/B test using his custom-built cabinets, Lill demonstrated how these wooden crosses significantly roll off the speaker cabinets top end.

Perhaps these wooden crosses play a more defining role in capturing the sought-after '60s vintage tone than one might first expect.

To capture an authentic '60s AC30 tone, speaker types and how closely a reissue aligns with the original design are pivotal considerations. When contemplating a purchase, a balance must be found between the pursuit of the holy grail tone and the challenges of owning a potentially pricey and finicky vintage amp.

Mason Mangela of Vertex Effects points to amps from the brand's Korg era, spanning from the mid-'90s to the early 2000s , as the closest modern reissues to faithfully capture the original 1960s JMI circuit with the top boost channel.

While multiple factors contribute to the elusive AC30 tone, a closer examination reveals more variables. Yet, the instantly recognizable sound remains consistent across numerous amp models.

Regardless of sought-after periods or eras, plugging into an AC30 ensures a unique and unparalleled tonal experience, making it a distinctive addition to any amplifier collection.
Questen Inghram is a Murrow News Fellow at the Yakima Herald-Republic whose beat focuses on government in Central Washington communities. Email qinghram@yakimaherald.com or call 509-577-7674.

This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, email news@yakimaherald.com.
Musician Robin Holcomb's newest album, "One Way or Another, Vol. 2," comes out May 31. (Ernie Sapiro)
Since his release from prison in 2022, Kimonti Carter has supported others navigating the criminal justice system. Here he's shown during a January online meeting of a group called Participatory Defense, which helps families of incarcerated people advocate for their loved ones. (Ken Lambert / The Seattle Times)
PRAGUE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Czech President Petr Pavel was released from hospital on Friday for home treatment after a motorcycle mishap.

The presidential office said on Thursday that Pavel was injured while riding a motorcycle. He was admitted to the Military University Hospital Prague "with an injury that is not serious."

On Friday, the office said on social media platform X that the president's injury was caused by a fall from a motorcycle at a low speed while practicing off-road driving on a closed circuit.

"President Pavel was released from the hospital this morning for home treatment. His schedule for next week remains unchanged, including the planned foreign trip," it said.

Pavel, 62, is known for his love of riding a motorcycle.

In April, Pavel was injured in the face during a visit to the southeast Zlin Region. He suffered a minor laceration near his eyebrows while shooting a long gun, but the injury did not require medical treatment, the Czech News Agency reported. 
YORK  The Environmental Protection Agency held a celebration of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, which helped fund Yorks Superfund Site, on Thursday morning in York.

The celebration included speeches from EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister and York Mayor Barry Redfern and was followed by a tour of the York Superfund Site.

There are two clean up areas in York, one on Fifth Street, and another on Seventh Street, which are both the sites of former dry cleaners. The dry cleaners used PCE chemicals and other toxic compounds, some of which leaked into ground water and a created a plume that spread east and southeast from the sites.

While all affected homes are currently having their water treated, Bradley Johnson, the site manager, previously told the News-Times those are temporary solutions until the source is treated. He compared treating the sites of the former dry cleaners to cutting the head off the snake.

On Thursday morning Redfern noted the importance of water to Nebraska and thanked the EPA for its work on the project.

He joked that York must have been a very dapper place a long time ago, given the number of dry cleaners it had.

The people in York have accepted the inconvenience, Redfern said, even around one of their favorite restaurants, referring to Chances R Restaurant.

McCollister said that funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which President Joe Biden signed into law on Nov. 15 2021, helped fund the York Superfund Site and many others like it.

The remediation would not have started at the York site if not for the infrastructure bill, said EPA Region 7 Superfund and Emergency Management Division Director Bob Jurgens, who was also present.

Representatives were present on behalf of U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer and U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith. Sen. Fischer voted in favor the bill, while Rep. Smith did not. Sen. Ricketts was not a senator at the time.

After the celebration at York City Hall, Johnson led a group of about 20 people on a tour of the two sites.

Johnson said he has tried to work with the city to minimize the impact of the work and throughout the process has tried to take advantage of Yorks local businesses.

Representatives from Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy were present, as well as some of the business owners involved in the work at the site.

Much of the work on the site has been done by Ayuda and Mc2, a thermal technology provider. Tom Lackman and Sonya Yungeberg were present from Ayuda and Brent Winder was present from Mc2.
Davide Quadrio, curator of the Asian Art Museum, rearranges a decoration of the museum in Turin, Italy, on March 11, 2024. In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands a museum of oriental art, which serves as a unique bridge between the Southern European country and China. At the helm of the museum is Davide Quadrio, an Italian curator whose life's work has been fostering cultural exchanges between these two ancient civilizations. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

ROME, May 23 (Xinhua) -- In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands a museum of oriental art, which serves as a unique bridge between the Southern European country and China. At the helm of the museum is Davide Quadrio, an Italian curator whose life's work has been fostering cultural exchanges between these two ancient civilizations.

The Asian Art Museum in Turin, with its impressive collection of nearly 2,300 works spanning from the Neolithic era to the early 20th century, holds a special place in Quadrio's heart. Among its five rooms dedicated to permanent exhibitions, the Chinese section stands out, showcasing hundreds of ancient artifacts from the Han, Tang, and Yuan dynasties. For Quadrio, this collection is the museum's soul, and a testament to the enduring influence of Chinese culture on his life and work.

This year, the museum unveiled a landmark exhibition called "Translation and Tradition of Eurasia", commemorating the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo's death. The exhibition, which opened in April, features an array of blue and white ceramic wares, meticulously curated to reconstruct the legendary Italian traveler's journey along the ancient Silk Road. Quadrio sees this exhibition as a modern-day tribute to Marco Polo's legacy, celebrating the historical and cultural bonds that have long united Italy and China.

Quadrio's journey into Chinese culture began after his graduation from Ca' Foscari University of Venice. Fascinated by the rich tapestry of Chinese heritage, he moved to China in 1991, immersing himself in its vibrant art scene. In 1998, he founded the Bizart Art Center in Shanghai, an independent nonprofit creative laboratory that became a crucible of artistic innovation. For over a decade, Quadrio nurtured this space, transforming it into a beacon of cultural dialogue.

In 2021, Quadrio brought his passion and vision back to Italy, taking on the role of director at the Asian Art Museum in Turin.

"China is the most important source of inspiration for my artistic life," Quadrio said.

Quadrio's mission extends beyond exhibitions. He is also a fervent advocate for a broader understanding of cultural diversity, stressing the importance of accurate and comprehensive information.

"It's unforgivable that some people in the Western world have partial information about what's happening in the rest of the world," he said. For Quadrio, the museum's role is crucial in promoting mutual understanding and facilitating global dialogues.

By activating collaborations with Asian cultures, Quadrio believes that museums can play a vital role in bridging gaps, and building a foundation for mutual respect and cooperation. 

Davide Quadrio, curator of the Asian Art Museum, speaks during an interview in Turin, Italy, on March 11, 2024. In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands a museum of oriental art, which serves as a unique bridge between the Southern European country and China. At the helm of the museum is Davide Quadrio, an Italian curator whose life's work has been fostering cultural exchanges between these two ancient civilizations. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

Photo taken on March 11, 2024 shows exhibits in the Chinese section at the Asian Art Museum in Turin, Italy. In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands a museum of oriental art, which serves as a unique bridge between the Southern European country and China. At the helm of the museum is Davide Quadrio, an Italian curator whose life's work has been fostering cultural exchanges between these two ancient civilizations. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

Photo taken on March 11, 2024 shows exhibits in the Chinese section at the Asian Art Museum in Turin, Italy. In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands a museum of oriental art, which serves as a unique bridge between the Southern European country and China. At the helm of the museum is Davide Quadrio, an Italian curator whose life's work has been fostering cultural exchanges between these two ancient civilizations. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

Photo taken on March 11, 2024 shows small bronze vessel Jiaodou at the Asian Art Museum in Turin, Italy. In the heart of Turin, Italy, stands a museum of oriental art, which serves as a unique bridge between the Southern European country and China. At the helm of the museum is Davide Quadrio, an Italian curator whose life's work has been fostering cultural exchanges between these two ancient civilizations. (Xinhua/Li Jing)
New Delhi: Sudipto Sen's political thriller Bastar: The Naxal Story opens with a chilling scene where a husband's patriotic act of flag hoisting on August 15 at a school culminates in his gruesome dismemberment into 32 pieces. This powerful introduction sets the scene for a film that boldly explores the harsh realities of the Naxalite insurgency.

Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film's story goes deep into the human suffering caused by this conflict, revealing the hidden tragedies that have scarred India's history. As it premieres on ZEE5, Bastar is a thought-provoking film which will force you to reconsider your views and empathy.

The relevance of this film is underscored by recent revelations from the Chhattisgarh Government, which informed the Supreme Court that Naxalism ranks third globally in terms of fatalities, following ISIS and Boko Haram. This insurgency has claimed over 15,000 lives among Indian Army officers, a figure that shadows the 8,738 Indian Army personnel lost in the Indo-Pak conflicts.

Additionally, the death toll in Naxal-affected states exceeds that of conflict-ridden Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the severe and widespread impact on both military and civilian populations. Historically, The Naxalite movement is rooted in communist ideology, which is said to have caused 100 million deaths globally over the past century. In 2007, Naxalism affected over half of Indias 29 states, covering 40% of the country's geography.

These statistics illustrate the deeply rooted and pervasive nature of the insurgency. Bastar: The Naxal Story offers a compelling portrayal of these harsh realities, providing a narrative that reflects the ongoing struggle and resilience of those affected by this violent conflict.

Watch Bastar: The Naxal Story exclusively on ZEE5, premiering from May 17th.
When it comes to thrillers, no one does it better than the South Koreans. From zombie apocalyptical tales to dystopian narratives, to taut melodrama. The films apart from thrills, chills and tense moments come packed with high production values and pitch-perfect performances. Here is our list of the top 5 Korean thrillers

Exhuma

The story opens in Los Angeles when two shamans Hwa Rim( Kim Go Eun ) and her assistant Bong Gil( Lee Do Hyun) have been summoned by Park Ji-yong (Kim Jae-chul), an influential Korean American man to cure his distressed infant.Hwa Rim discovers the baby like all the firstborns of the family, is surrounded by an ominous presence. The source is the familys elder, Ji Yongs grandfather who was an influential man who bore allegiance to the Japanese. The only way out is to exhume his grave, which is in Korea. Hwa Rim enlists the help of renowned geomancer Kim Sang Duk( Choi Min Sik) and funeral director Ko (Yoo Hai-jin). However, they discover the grave which is in a secluded spot on the mountain has inauspicious feng shui as well as strange markings and a plain headstone. Kim Sang Duk warns the team with foreboding that unearthing this grave would bring sinister repercussions for all.

A supernatural thriller Exhuma also highlights layers of S Koreas traumatic historical past.

Train To Busan

This 2016 film has achieved a cult status of sorts in the genre. An innocent train journey turns chaotic as a strange viral outbreak, starts to infect passengers on board and they turn into zombies. A businessman and father played by Gong Yoo, oblivious to the mayhem needs to save his daughter and himself. As the government declares a state of emergency and martial law, can the humans out-challenge the zombies?

Old Boy

This 2003 Korean film is a classic of all time. Oh, Dae-su (Choi Min Sik) is an ordinary businessman with a wife and daughter. One day after a drunken night he finds himself locked up in a strange, private prison for 15 years. As he is kept in this strange facility he realises he has been unlawfully framed for his wifes murder

Once out Oh Dae-Su is determined to discover who his mysterious enemy is. He gets his first clue when a homeless man hands him a cell phone and a wallet full of cash, and he hears someone challenge him to find the real murderer.

Parasite

A film which created history for the S Korean film industry, Parasite was decorated with International awards as well as honours and bagged the Academy Award for Best Film in 2020. Ki-taek ( Song Kang Ho) is the patriarch of the down-and-out Kim family. Neither, his wife who was a former shot put champ, Chung-sook (Jang Hye Jin) and their adult children, Ki-woo (Choi Woo Shik) and Ki-jung (Park So Dam) can land a steady job. They live in a cramped sub-basement. Their lives take a dramatic turn when Ki-woo gets a job as a private tutor in the home of the rich Park family. This is when the Kims start living off the Kims and wreaking bloody havoc. The film a hard-hitting statement on S Koreas capitalist ecosystem is a must-watch.

Confession

When Min-Ho's (So Ji Sub) lover is found dead in a hotel. Min-Ho is the prime suspect due to the room being locked from the inside. With no evidence of an intruder, he flees to an isolated cabin to meet with Shin-Ae (Kim Yunjin) a clever lawyer, who has never lost a case. Throughout the night Shin-Ae prompts Min-Ho to recount the events leading to the victim's death, it seems Min Ho is hiding several secrets. A psychological thriller Confession delved into the human psyche.
In a new twist in the death case of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar, a honey-trap angle has emerged. On Thursday evening, the West Bengal CID detained one person for allegedly being involved in the murder. Police believe the MP may have been "lured" into a New Town flat by a woman and then murdered by contract killers. According to the police, the detained person, a resident of a West Bengal area near the international border with Bangladesh, had met one of the primary suspects in the murder.

"The investigation revealed that the Bangladeshi parliamentarian fell into a honey trap set by a woman who was also close to the victim's friend. It appears that the woman lured Anar into the New Town flat. We suspect he was murdered shortly after he arrived at the flat," news agency PTI quoted a senior police officer as saying.

"Further investigation is underway to determine why the person met with him and what they discussed," officer said. He did not disclose the detainee's identity.

Butcher From Bangladesh Arrested In Bangla MP's 'Murder' Case

The West Bengal CID arrested one person from the state's Bongaon area in North 24 Parganas district for allegedly being involved in the "murder" of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar. The arrested man, a Bangladeshi citizen and butcher by profession, admitted during interrogation that he assisted the other accused in chopping the victim's body before disposing of the parts in various locations, according to the officer.



On Wednesday, West Bengal Police confirmed the murder of Anar, an Awami League MP from Bangladesh's Jhenaidah-4 segment, who had gone missing from Kolkata on May 13. "The accused is a butcher by profession. He had illegally entered India and was living in Mumbai, concealing his identity.

"He was summoned to Kolkata a few months ago as part of the plan to kill Anar. "He has admitted to being an accomplice to the four men who murdered the politician inside the flat and assisted them in skinning and chopping the body," the police officer told PTI.



When the arrested man appeared in court in Barasat on Friday afternoon, he was remanded to the CID for 12 days, according to him. A team of CID officers was searching for the victim's body parts in Krishnamati village in Bhangar, where the butcher had led them, he said. He added that the CID used divers to locate body parts in Bhangar's ponds.

American Friend Paid Murderers Rs Five Crores

An initial investigation also revealed that the MP's close friend, a US citizen, had paid approximately Rs 5 crore to those involved in the crime. The Awami League MP's friend owns a flat in Kolkata and is probably in the United States right now. Police also said that the flat in Kolkata's New Town area, where the Bangladesh MP was last seen, was rented out to a friend by the owner, an excise department employee.

The CID is looking into CCTV footage that shows Anar entering the flat with a man and a woman, according to the officer. "The murder was well-planned. An old friend of the MP paid a large sum of money, approximately Rs 5 crore, to the contracted killers to carry out the crime. "Further investigation is underway," he stated.



"In the CCTV footage, the politician was seen entering the flat with the two others. The duo was later seen leaving and returning to the flat the next day, but the MP was not seen again," the officer told PTI. Police said the duo was later seen leaving the flat with a large trolley suitcase.
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall over West Bengal and Odisha as a depression which is moving towards which lies over the Bay of Bengal is likely to move northeastwards and intensify into a cyclonic storm Remal by the evening of May 25 and reach the West Bengal coasts as a severe cyclonic storm by Sunday evening.

Under the influence of the cyclonic storm, the coastal districts of West Bengal and adjoining districts of North Odisha are likely to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall on May 26 and May 27.

The IMD has issued a warning for rough sea conditions ad cyclonic storm Remal approaches the West Bengal coast. Weather is expected to worsen by the evening of May 24. The meteorological department advises fishermen to avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal until the morning of May 27, 2024.

This is the first cyclone in the Bay of Bengal this pre-monsoon season and will be named Remal, according to a system of naming cyclones in the Indian Ocean region.

"The system will concentrate into a depression over central Bay of Bengal by Friday morning. It will further intensify into a cyclonic storm on Saturday morning and reach Bangladesh and the adjoining West Bengal coast as a severe cyclonic storm by Sunday evening," IMD scientist Monica Sharma told PTI.

According to the IMD, the cyclone could reach a wind speed of 102 kilometres per hour on Sunday.

The Met office has warned of very heavy rainfall in the coastal districts of West Bengal, north Odisha, Mizoram, Tripura and south Manipur on May 26-27.

Well-marked Low Pressure Area over westcentral & adjoining south Bay of Bengal moved northeastwards during past 12 hours and lay over the same area at 1730 IST of 23 May. Very likely to concentrate into a Depression over central parts of Bay of Bengal by morning of 24th May. pic.twitter.com/6xnz7g1F2U  India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) May 23, 2024

Fisherfolk out at sea have been advised to return to the coast and not venture into the Bay of Bengal until May 27.

Scientists say cyclonic storms are intensifying rapidly and retaining their potency for longer periods due to warmer sea surface temperatures, a result of oceans absorbing most of the excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions.

The past 30 years have witnessed the highest sea surface temperatures since records began in 1880.

According to senior IMD scientist DS Pai, warmer sea surface temperatures mean more moisture, which is favourable for the intensification of cyclones.

Madhavan Rajeevan, former secretary of the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, said a sea surface temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and above is needed for a low-pressure system to intensify into a cyclone. The sea surface temperature in the Bay of Bengal is around 30 degrees Celsius at present.

"The Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea are very warm at present, so a tropical cyclone can easily form," Rajeevan said.

But tropical cyclones are not only controlled by the ocean; the atmosphere also plays an important role, especially in terms of vertical wind shear -- a change in wind speed and/or wind direction with altitude.

"A cyclone will not intensify if the vertical wind shear is very large. It will weaken," Rajeevan said.

Models suggest the cyclone will not affect the monsoon progress, the senior meteorologist said.

Pai, however, said it could affect the progress of the monsoon in some parts.

He told PTI, "Initially, the system will help the monsoon progress over the Bay of Bengal. Thereafter, it will detach from the monsoon circulation and pull a lot of moisture, which could result in a slight delay in the monsoon progress in that area."
New Delhi: A new Development emerged in the death case of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar. This is very clear that his murder was carried out in a very professional manner. How the dead body is disposed of is not normal. This indicates that only a butcher can do that. The West Bengal CID detained one person for allegedly being involved in the murder. The arrest has been made in Mumbai. The accused was identified as Jihad Havaldar, a citizen of Bangladesh but living in India illegally.

In today's DNA, Zee News anchor, Sourabh Raaj Jain analysed the death plot of a Bangladesh MP and the people involved in this professional murder.

Watch Today's Full Episode Here

Police believe the MP may have been lured into a New Town flat by a woman and then murdered by contract killers and he is a professional butcher. He was hired by Akhtaruzzaman Shaheen, the mastermind of the MP's murder and called to Kolkata before committing the murder. He cut the body into pieces after the murder of MP Azim.

CID sleuths have confirmed the murder of Anar, an Awami League MP from the Jhenaidah-4 segment in Bangladesh, following his disappearance from Kolkata on May 13.
Pune Porsche Accident Latest News: Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said on Friday that attempts were made to project that an adult was driving the Porsche at the time of the accident, rather than the 17-year-old juvenile who is accused of crashing it into a motorbike and killing two people. Speaking to reporters, the Pune police chief accepted lapses on the part of some police officers and said that they would face action for damaging evidence. "This was the result of an internal investigation," he added. Kumar also denied the claim that the juvenile received "preferential" treatment inside the police station.

"We have gathered all the required chronological evidence and it is evident from our investigation that the minor was behind the wheel of Porsche car," he said. "For example, when the juvenile left the house, the entry in the security register indicates that he left with the car," he added.

Pune Police Says Evidence Confirms Minor Accused Was Behind The Wheels

According to the police chief, technical and CCTV evidence confirms that the juvenile was driving the car. Eyewitnesses have also confirmed that the teenager, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, was driving the Porsche at the time of the accident, he said.

Kumar said that attempts were made to show that an adult, the family driver, was behind the wheel when the vehicle struck and killed two people in the city's Kalyani Nagar area around 3 a.m. on Sunday.

As a precaution, extra blood samples were collected for testing at another lab to ensure that the samples and DNA reports were from the same person. "We have not received the blood reports but the process is being expedited," he stated.

Section 304 A (death by negligence) was used in the initial FIR, but it was replaced with section 304 on the same day because the crime warranted it, he explained.

Evidence from all angles is being gathered to create a "watertight" case. The investigation will be led by an ACP-level officer to determine whether any attempts to tamper with or destroy evidence occurred. He also said that special counsels would be appointed to aggressively represent the police side in court.

Pune Police Chief Responds Alleged Lapses In Crash Probe

Kumar responded to complaints about lapses and allegations that some cops were "managed" by saying the police have taken a strict approach from the start. "So it is incorrect to claim that police were under pressure or were negligent. However, an investigation is underway to determine why section 304 was not added in the first place," he said.

The senior police official also denied that pizzas and burgers were served to the juvenile at the police station. "There is no truth in the 'pizza party allegation'," he stated. There have been complaints that some eyewitnesses were pressured, he said, adding, "If such things come to light, strict action will be taken against the police officer in question."

What Is The Pune Porsche Accident Case?

A Porsche, allegedly driven by the 17-year-old, who the police claim was drunk at the time, killed two motorbike-riding software engineers in the city early Sunday morning. The teenager was then brought before the Juvenile Justice Board, which granted him bail and required him to write a 300-word essay.

Following an outcry over quick bail and the police's review plea, the JJB on Wednesday remanded the teen, son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, in the observation home until June 5. Police have also apprehended the teenager's father.
Two IT professionals were mowed to death by a teen driving a Porsche; the Pune City Police on Thursday questioned the 17-year-old's grandfather in connection with the horrific hit-and-run incident.

The minor ploughed his swanky race car into the two IT professionals, who were travelling on a bike, killing them on the spot. A forensic team examined the Porsche car involved in the accident, an official said.

"A team today conducted the examination of the car, which is in the possession of the Yerawada police station. We have already carried out the forensic examination of the spot and now the car has also been examined. The technical aspects such as GPS, the cameras around the car were examined," said another senior police officer, who is currently monitoring the investigation.

Probe Continues With Grandfather, Father

"Since the luxury car is in the name of the realty firm owned by the Agarwals, the grandfather of the minor, who is one of the owners of the firm, was questioned in regards to the ownership of the car," he said.

The Mumbai Crime Branch, which is probing the hit-and-run case, summoned the grandfather of the accused teen in a bid to grill him jointly with the latter's father, a police officer added. The sleuths also summoned the accused teen's driver and friend to piece together the sequence of events on the night before the hit-and-run incident, the officer informed. According to senior officials, all four were grilled in unison by an officer of DCP rank.

What Did The Driver Say?

Officials in the Crime Branch confirmed that the police were bidding to make the driver a witness in the case, as on the night of the incident, after the accused left the bar after a binging session with friends, the latter had asked the teen to take the passenger seat and let him drive.

However, the juvenile called his father, who later rang up the driver, asking him to let his son drive the Porsche.

Authorities Sieze Minor's Father's Phone

The sleuths also confirmed to have seized the mobile phone of the accused teen's father, adding that they were in the process of checking his call details. After the questioning on Thursday, the police asked the juvenile's grandparent to appear for questioning again before the Crime Branch.

Intense Grilling Underway For Bar Owners, Manager

The teen's father, the bar owners as well as the manager, who are currently in police custody, were being subjected to intense grilling before the term of their custody expires on Friday. They are to be produced before a court, which would decide on an extension of custody for leads in the case.

Juvenile Justice Act To Be Reviewed?

Meanwhile, BJP leader and Rajya Sabha member Medha Kulkarni posted on X saying that the accident showed the Juvenile Justice Act needs to be reviewed as so-called minors like this boy are using the law to get away with serious crimes.

The lawyer standing for Vedant Agarwal is arguing that depression led to the accident and whether Vedant is an adult or not will be decided after 90 days. This is precisely why juvenile laws need to be reviewed. So called Minors like Vedant are using them to get away with pic.twitter.com/TxKDV6PL74  Dr. Medha Kulkarni (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Medha_kulkarni) May 23, 2024

Two young IT professionals from Madhya Pradesh, identified as Ashwini Koshta and Aneesh Awadhia, were killed after the teen gored his Porsche into them in Pune's Kalyani Nagar on the night of May 19.
Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah questioned PDP President Mehbooba Mufti's association with INDIA block asking why she never campaigned against the BJP and only targeted NC. Omar said, "The People's Democratic Party's decision to distance itself from PAGD was motivated by self-interest rather than any ideological issue. They followed a method." "The PAGD is intact. The PAGD fought this election alongside the ANC, CPI(M), and NC; only the PDP withdrew," he said.

He went on to say that the current elections were fought over ideologies rather than political parties. The former Chief Minister of erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir state emphasised that NC was part of an alliance to protect the country's secular image, while PDP chose to align with the BJP.

"Why didn't she actively canvass for INDIA or the INDIA bloc against the BJP in places like Udhampur and Jammu?," Omar asked, adding that Mufti did not campaign against the BJP in either Udhampur or Jammu. So, how can she claim to be a member of the INDIA bloc? "She is only against the NC and not against the BJP," he said.

Omar Attacks BJP Over Postponement Of Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha Polls

Omar said that the postponement of the Anantnag Rajouri Parliamentary seat elections was done to weaken Mian Altaf sahib's position and reduce the NC's influence. "The scheme failed to achieve its goal. People in the constituency have rededicated themselves to respond to the BJP and its proxies in the same way that their counterparts did in central and north Kashmir." He went on to say that when the PDP and the BJP joined forces, the clock was set for the repeal of Articles 370 and 35A.

"When Rajnath singh said that the BJP government would settle the Kashmir issue once and for all? We asked them how it was possible. It is now clear that the PDP worked closely with them to implement the decisions made on August 9, 2019. We had warned the PDP about the consequences of joining forces with the BJP, but they declined our offers. Had they listened to our pleas, our state would not have been stripped of its status and reduced to a UT," the NC Vice President added.

Omar Abdullah promised to continue the peaceful and democratic struggle for the restoration of the people of Jammu and Kashmir's abridged rights. Omar urged the public to reject the anti-Kashmir forces.

Omar stated, "We have begun a peaceful and democratic struggle for the restoration of our democratic rights, just as my grandfather Sheikh Abdullah did." We were once sold as cattle, but Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah fought for our freedom. Today, we face economic and political slavery once more, and it is the responsibility of every conscious citizen to preserve our historical state."



Referring to the alleged concerted efforts by various entities, including the BJP and agencies from New Delhi and Nagpur, to weaken the National Conference, Omar urged voters to counter these conspiracies with their votes on May 25, just as they did in North and Central Kashmir.

"We are fighting for the entire nation, advocating for the release of all prisoners held in jails outside J&K. When the National Conference Government is formed in September, we will prioritize their release, he pledged.
New Delhi: Shares of Adani Enterprises Ltd, the flagship company of Indian billionaire Gautam Adanis group have erased from the losses caused by a critical short-seller report in early 2023. This recovery came after the conglomerate reduced its debt and sacred major projects.

The stock has recovered from losses of over 30 billion dollars that followed allegations of widespread corporate misconduct and share-price manipulation by US-based Hindenburg Research in January 2023. However, the Adani group has consistently denied these accusations. (Also Read: Wipro's Ex-CEO Thierry Delaporte Becomes Highest Paid Indian IT CEO For FY24)

There are a handful of groups in India that can undertake big projects and Adani Group has taken the leadership position, said Abhay Agarwal, a fund manager with Mumbai-based Piper Serica Advisors Pvt, as reported by Bloomberg. He further added, Investors are looking at Adani group as a policy play and since there is a clear direction on the countrys policy, we are seeing recovery. (Also Read: Sensex Hits New All-Time High; Nifty Breaches 23,000-Mark For First Time)

Adani Enterprises stock rose 1.7 percent to 3,445.05 today, May 24. It has nearly tripled since its drop in February 2023. The rise comes as analysts anticipate Adani Enterprises stock will be included in the benchmark S&P BSE sensex index in June, potentially attracting more investment.

Further, other Adani companies are working with global investors to raise new debt as the group continues to expand its cement and copper businesses. At least five of the 10 listed Adani group stocks are now trading higher than they were before the Hindenburg report besides Adani Enterprises.
New Delhi: Kartik Aaryan' upcoming venture Chandu Champion is jointly produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Kabir Khan. The film is all set to present the nation's heartthrob in a never-before-seen avatar. The ambitious project delves into the inspiring journey of Murlikant Petkar - Indias inaugural Paralympic gold medalist.

During a recent appearance on a dance reality show 'Dance Deewane' Finale episode, veteran actor Suniel Shetty praised the makers and Kartik Aaryan's dedication for his part. He said, "Sajid bhai (Sajid Nadiadwala) is very close to me. And he definitely says one thing about Kartik. The amount of dedication and sincerity with which Kartik has done this film. It's unbelievable. He has endured everything. Okay, there is body transformation. People do it. But the dedication with which he has done it. I think you haven't even eaten sweets for the last 1.5 years."

Kartik Aaryan responded, "Yes sir, A lot of hard work has gone into this film for 2 years. And in fact, from 1.5 to 2.75 years, sugar was considered as poison. And we were not eating it."

Makers released the first song teaser Satyaanas, composed by Pritam. Jointly produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Kabir Khan, 'Chandu Champion' is set for a June 14, 2024 release.
HELSINKI, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) recommended on Thursday an early rollout and two-stage approach to administering booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine this coming autumn.

This fall, THL advised booster doses for a range of high-risk groups, including residents of nursing homes, individuals over 80 years old, and those with significant immunodeficiencies, regardless of age. Emphasis is placed on initiating vaccinations promptly upon vaccine arrival in Finland.

Furthermore, the recommendation extends to individuals aged 75 to 79, acknowledging their comparatively lower risk of severe illness but underlining the importance of additional protection.

In line with these recommendations, THL underscores the importance of offering COVID-19 vaccinations concurrently with influenza vaccinations, particularly to individuals aged 65 and above, as well as to those aged 18 and above with underlying conditions that heighten the risk of severe COVID-19.

The overarching objective of these measures is to mitigate the rates of hospitalizations and fatalities attributable to COVID-19.

According to Finnish national broadcaster Yle, last fall, there were 100 deaths in the worst weeks. In total, more than 800 Finns died due to COVID-19 infection in November-December because the elderly received the vaccine too late. 
Actor Chris Hemsworth has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The 'Thor' star received the star on Thursday in the presence of his family and actor Robert Downey Jr.

Downey paid tribute to Hemsworth as the latter received his star on Hollywood Boulevard. Downey brought with him a list of "roasts" from their other Marvel costars, each describing him in three words, as per PEOPLE.

"First off, [Jeremy] Renner says 'absurdly annoyingly amazing.' [Mark] Ruffalo came in strong with 'Friend from work.' That's a callback, now I get it," Downey Jr. said in front of a crowd that also included Hemsworth's Furiosa: A Mad Max Sagadirector George Miller, costar Anya Taylor-Joy and Hemsworth's family.

He continued, "Scarlett [Johansson] got to the heart of it with 'sensitive leading lady.' Captain America [Chris Evans] calls him 'second-best Chris.' "Hemsworth and Downey portrayed two of the core Avengers superheroes, Thor and Iron Man, respectively, alongside Evans, 42, Johansson, 39, Renner, 53, and Ruffalo, 56. Hemsworth most recently starred as Thor in 2022's Love and Thunder.

"Chris is a bit daunting to describe. He's very elusive because of the pretty packaging. However, upon further inspection, he has a true-blue wit and he has a depth of soul, and it has been my sincere pleasure to know you these many years," Downey said in his speech. "You keep us Hollywood folks on our toes because you're just a real dude."

Have A Look At The Post:

Chris also posed for the pictures with wife, Elsa Pataky, and their three children -- daughter India Rose and twin sons Sasha and Tristan.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic sidewalk attraction in LA that features stars' names to honor their achievements in the entertainment industry.
Deepika Padukone delighted her fans by sharing a series of photos in a bright yellow dress where she was seen flaunting her baby bump. The actress is expecting her first child in September this year.

She recently faced trolling after being seen with her husband Ranveer Singh while they stepped out to vote during the fifth phase of Lok Sabha Elections in Mumbai.

Fellow celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Pooja Bhatt, and Sonakshi Sinha came in her support by liking a post of a senior journalist that called out the haters. Shutting up the trolls mom-to-be Deepika Padukone was all smiles during her latest appearance where she talked about her beauty range 82E.

Deepika took to her Instagram stories and shared some 'sunshine' with her fans with her pregnancy glow that took center stage. The actress was delighted to announce that 82E is now exclusively available on Tira besides online.

Watch The Video Here:

While Deepika walked around a store in Mumbai discussing her beauty products, netizens observed that her baby bump was clearly visible in the clip. A quick reaction from the fans was seen as they showered love and blessings on soon-to-be mom

One fan wrote, Stay blessed beautiful. Take great care Another wrote, My queen, pregnancy has made her more beautiful. Adding on to the same one fan also called her Sunshine.

Moreover, the mom-to-be actress is gearing up for her upcoming film Singham Again, where Deepika will be seen playing Lady Singham. Along with that she will also be seen in an epic science fiction action film Kalki 2898 AD, the film also stars Jr NTR and Amitabh Bachchan in pivotal roles.
Aam Aadmi Party leader Raghav Chadha and Bollywood star Parineeti Chopra were recently spotted at the famous Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai seeking blessings of Bappa after his eye surgery.

The couple recently returned to Mumbai after Raghav underwent a preventive eye surgery in London.

Have A Look At The Video:

Raghav and Parineeti wore complementary white outfits. As Raghav was seen wearing a white Kurta, Parineeti opted for a cream colour ethnic wear along with a high ponytail.

Earlier, Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj had said that Chadha had some complications in his eye. Raghav Chadha has undergone a major eye surgery in the UK. It is said that his condition was serious and there was a possibility of blindness. As soon as he gets better, he will come back to India and join us in the election campaigning."

The couple tied the knot on September 24 last year, hosting an intimate destination wedding in Udaipur, Rajasthan, attended by close friends and family.

Recently, Parineeti appeared on Raj Shamanis podcast and shared some insights about their love story, she said,  I swear, when I met Raghav, within five minutes, I knew I was going to marry him.

Watch The Full Podcast here:

Meanwhile, on the work front, Parineeti Chopra was seen in Imtiaz Alis Amar Singh Chamkila and she will be seen next in a film titled as Capsule Gill.
New Delhi: HDFC Bank customers would not be able to access several banking services early on Saturday, May 25. Due to scheduled maintenance, net banking, mobile banking and UPI will be unavailable from 3:30 am to 6:30 am, as stated on the bank's website.

HDFC Bank has informed its customers via SMS: Scheduled Maintenance: Some transactions on HDFC Bank NetBanking and MobileBanking App will be unavailable on May 25, from 3:30 AM to 6:30 AM.

What banking services will be unavailable?

The HDFC Bank website states that accounts, deposits, fund transfers (NEFT, IMPS, RTGS, and within bank transfers), online payments, and certain other transactions will be unavailable from 3:30 AM to 6:30 AM on May 25, 2024. (Also Read: Adani Enterprises Stock Recovers $30 Billion Following Hindenburg Report)

Will UPI work during these hours?

No, During this period customers will also be unable to make payments via UPI. (Also Read: Sensex, Nifty Close Flat After Touching All-Time High)

HDFC Bank customers can utilize the bank's ChatBanking service to learn more about the services affected by the scheduled maintenance of the bank's platforms.

What is HDFC ChatBanking service?

HDFC Bank ChatBanking is a WhatsApp-based chat service allowing customers to access over 200 services and transactions 24/7. HDFC Bank's ChatBanking service on WhatsApp is fully secure with end-to-end encryption.

How to register for HDFC Bank's ChatBanking service?

To register for HDFC Bank ChatBanking simply save the number 7070022222 in your contacts. Then, send "Hi" or "Register" via WhatsApp from your bank-registered mobile number to 7070022222. You'll receive guidance through the registration process. The bank has provided some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for customers regarding the ChatBanking service.
New Delhi: Chinese electronic brand OnePlus launched the OnePlus 12R in the Indian market in January this year. The handset is offered in Cool Blue and Iron Grey colour options. At launch, the OnePlus 12R was one of the best smartphones in the segment, starting at Rs 39,999. Now, the smartphone is currently available with a huge discount on Flipkart.

OnePlus 12R Discount:

For the 8GB+128GB storage model, the phone is priced at Rs 39,999. Now, this variant is available at Rs 36,560 after an 8 per cent discount on Flipkart. Hence, it is a discount of Rs 3,439 from the original launch price. Consumers can also enjoy an extra discount of Rs 909 as cashback or coupon.

Meanwhile, the 16GB + 256GB storage model also receives a discount of 4 per cent bringing the price down to Rs 44,518 from Rs 45,999. OnePlus 12R fans can also avail an additional 10 per cent off up to Rs 1,000 on HDFC Bank Credit Card EMI transactions. (Also Read: Tech Showdown: POCO F6 Vs Realme GT 6T; Which Smartphone Offers Best Features At Rs 30,000 Price Segment?)

OnePlus 12R Specifications:

The smartphone features a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection.

In the camera department, the phone packs a 50MP primary sensor with support for OIS and EIS, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro lens. There is a 16MP shooter on the front for selfies and video chats.

The OnePlus 12R is equipped with a 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast charging, marking the largest-ever battery in the OnePlus smartphone. It runs on Android 14-based ColorOS 14.0 out-of-the-box. (Also Read: POCO F6 Launched In India With AI Features And Iceloop Cooling Technology; Check Specs, Price, And Discount)

For connectivity, the OnePlus 12R supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, a USB Type-C port and a dual nano-SIM setup.
New Delhi: Chinese electronic brand Realme has launched its next generation true wireless earbuds -Realme Buds Air 6 in India alongside the Realme GT 6T smartphone. The new TWS earbuds are offered in Flame Silver and Forest Green colour options.

Realme Buds Air 6 Price And Availability:

The Realme Buds Air 6 have been announced in India for Rs 3,299. However, it will go on first sale on May 27 12pm IST with a special price tag of Rs. 2,999 (including bank offers). Consumers can buy these earbuds via Amazon, Realmes online channel, and retail platforms.

Realme Buds Air 6 Specifications:

The Realme Buds Air 6 TWS earbuds sport a 12mm Mega Titanizing Driver unit which promises to offer powerful bass output. It also offers a frequency response range of 20Hz to 40KHz and 32 ohms impedance. (Also Read: POCO F6 Launched In India With AI Features And Iceloop Cooling Technology; Check Specs, Price, And Discount)

The newly-launched Realme Buds Air 6 TWS earbuds are packed with three microphones in each earbud. They also come with an ANC feature that is said to reduce external noise by up to 50 dB. These Realme Buds Air 6 TWS earbuds are compatible with different types of noise cancellation which include intelligent dynamic noise cancellation, deep noise reduction, moderate noise reduction, and mild noise reduction.

On the battery front, it promises to offer up to 40 hours of battery backup with the charging case. Moreover, these earbuds support fast charging that provides a quick 7 hours of playtime with just 10 minutes of charging.

The IP55-rated earbuds support Dual Device Connection 2.0 which means it can be connected to two devices simultaneously.
New Delhi: The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) which operates under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology cautioned users about vulnerabilities in Google Chrome and Siemens Products. These vulnerabilities could potentially enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system.

Which software versions of Google Chrome are affected?

The affected versions of Google Chrome are those released before 125.0.6422.112/.113 for Windows and Mac and prior to 125.0.6422.112 for Linux.

Which Siemens products are affected?

Affected Siemens products include Parasolid, SIMATIC RTLS, Simcenter Nastran, SIMATIC CN 4100, RUGGEDCOM, Solid Edge, Teamcenter Visualization, JT2Go, CPC80, and CPCI85, among others. "A vulnerability has been reported in Google Chrome for Desktop which could be exploited by a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system," said the CERT-In advisory.

The 'Remote Code Execution' vulnerability exists in Google Chrome for Desktop due to the 'Type Confusion' flaw in V8. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted request.

Moreover, the cyber agency said that the multiple vulnerabilities reported in Siemens Products could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges or perform denial of service (DoS) conditions on the targeted system.The agency suggested users apply appropriate security updates as mentioned by the companies. (With IANS Inputs)
OSLO, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The Norwegian government announced on Thursday further restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens into Norway, effective from May 29.

The move is aimed at curbing non-essential travel, particularly for tourism purposes, the Norwegian government said in a press release.

The initial restrictions on visa issuance to Russian citizens were implemented in the spring of 2022. Since then, tourist visas have largely been denied.

However, Russian citizens will still be allowed entry if they are visiting close family members residing in Norway. Additionally, those coming for work or study in Norway or other Schengen countries will not be affected by the new rules. 
ZAGREB, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. decision to raise tariffs on imported Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) is not just ineffective, but also harmful, eventually boomeranging on the United States itself, said Mladen Plese, a Croatian political analyst, in a recent interview with Xinhua.

History has shown that tariffs and other related measures may temporarily stifle competition, they ultimately prove harmful and hinder further development of the U.S. automobile industry, Plese added.

Last week, the White House announced a tariff hike from 25 to 100 percent on imported EVs from China.

"The latest measures regarding tariffs will backfire in America because, in the end, the American EV industry will not fare well either as the world is inter-connected," he said, reminding the United States of the need to "return to the principles of healthy competition."

The U.S. move is also detrimental to American consumers as high tariffs will prevent them from buying "cheaper and better" Chinese EVs, Plese said, adding it is also harmful to the global trend of green transition and the fight against climate change.

Plese attributed such moves to the U.S. reluctance to accept the reality that China is advancing rapidly and closing the gap with the American automobile industry. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly concerned about losing dominance in many fields and trying to use various measures to impede China's growth.

"That did not happen and it will not happen either," he noted, citing China's "incredible ability to adapt to changes."

China is producing cars at the highest technological level, in an environmentally friendly way, and at favorable prices. "Success for Chinese EVs will be a sure thing," he said.

Moreover, Plese said, "America is not setting a good example to the world." Stressing that the world needs technological development and healthy and fair competition, Plese noted that high tariffs and restricting market access will only lead to stagnation and political friction. 
MAM | Media And Advertising Goafest 2024 unveils stellar line-up of speakers and sessions Gearing up to present three days of learnings, discussions, and deliberations while celebrating creative excellence, Goafest 2024 presents a stellar line-up of speakers for its 17 edition. Read More... MAM | Media And Advertising Ogilvy earns Network of the Year at the 2024 D&AD Awards With 44 total Pencils and 52 Shortlists, highlighted by 1 Future Impact Pencil and 4 Yellow Pencils, Ogilvy was named Network of the Year at the 2024 D&AD Awards. It marks the first time Ogilvy has earned the honour at the D&ADs since 2020. Read More...

MAM | Marketing Zoreko unveils itself as SMAAASH Fun Gateway Arena Pvt Ltd's new avatar Changing the face of the gaming industry, the first-ever pioneering force proudly announces a mighty leap forward with its brand transitioning from 'SMAAASH Fun Gateway Arena Private Ltd' to 'Zoreko - Original Gamers'. Read More...

MAM | Media And Advertising Sun Neo Hindi GEC announces the appointment of Madison Media Alpha as its media agency on record Madison Media Alpha, a unit of Madison World, has recently won the Media AOR of Sun Neo Hindi GEC. The agency has been working for Sun Bangla and Sun Marathi channels under Sun Network. Read More...
Description

Join the Long Island Festival Orchestra under the direction of Eric Stewart for a concert Celebrating American Composers on Friday, May 24th, at St. Peter's by-the-sea Episcopal Church in Bay Shore.

Special guest trombone soloist Burt Mason will perform the out-of-this-world "Red Sky" by Anthony Barfield, with Howard Hanson's Symphony No. 2, "Romantic," and "Sonetto for Orchestra" by Eric Stewart. The concert begins at 7:30.

Suggested donation: $15 (Senior/Student $10)
2 Top Retail REITs With Yields Of 4% Or More To Buy in June

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate. REITs allow individuals to invest in various types of real estate without having to directly own or manage the properties. REITs typically focus on a specific type of real estate, such as residential, commercial, or industrial, and they are required to distribute a large percentage of their taxable income to shareholders in the form of dividends, making them attractive for income-seeking investors.

Let's take a look at two REITs with yields up to 4.5% that you could buy today.

Kite Realty Group Trust

Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE:KRG) owns or has ownership interests in a portfolio of 180 open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets containing approximately 28 million square feet. Its portfolio is situated across major markets in the Sun Belt region, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, and San Antonio.

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New fund backed by Jeff Bezos offers a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends. Here's how you can invest today.

Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die." These high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5%  9% make earning passive income easier than ever.

Kite Realty currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share, equating to an annualized dividend of $1.00 per share and giving its stock a yield of about 4.5% at the time of this writing.

Kite Realty is also an up-and-coming dividend-growth star. It has raised its annual dividend payment each of the last three years, and its 4.2% hike in October has it on track for 2024 to mark the fourth consecutive year with an increase.

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Tanger Inc.

Tanger (NYSE:SKT) owns and operates a portfolio of 38 outlet centers and one open-air lifestyle center consisting of over 15 million square feet across tourist destinations and other high-traffic markets in 20 U.S. states and Canada. Its outlet centers have over 3,000 stores operated by more than 700 brand name companies, including Nike, Ulta, Lululemon, Dick's, Disney, and Crocs.

Tanger currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.275 per share, equating to an annualized dividend of $1.10 per share, which gives its stock a yield of about 4% at the time of this writing.

In addition to being a high yielder, Tanger is an up-and-coming dividend-growth star. It has raised its annual dividend for two consecutive years, and its two hikes in the last eight months has it on pace for 2024 to mark the third consecutive year with an increase.

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Private credit offers up to 20% APY to potential accredited investor s looking to capitalize on this growing asset class.

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Many travelers are being extra budget-conscious this summer. According to a recent Skyscanner survey, over 50% of Americans have budgeted on their mind when booking travel for the upcoming season.

While many Americans have their summer trips already booked, 34% are still trying to find deals and 21% are waiting for last-minute deals.

For those who havent booked yet, consider one of these international destinations where flights have become more affordable.

Check Out: 3 Places To Travel That Are Like Hawaii but Way Cheaper

Try This: 6 Unusual Ways To Make Extra Money (That Actually Work)

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Split, Croatia

Flights from the U.S. to Split are 24% cheaper than they were in 2023, according to Skyscanner data, so this Baltic location is a great destination to consider. Overall, the city has become a cheaper place to visit in recent years.

Croatia has been increasing in popularity over the last few years, and more capacity means better pricing, said Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner.

Theres no shortage of things to do and see while there.

A historic city along the coast, Split offers Game of Thrones fans an opportunity to see where filming took place, as well as sites of archeological digs, Lindsay said. Just outside, in the town of Trogir, visitors can taste and experience the birth of the Zinfandel wine.

Read More: 7 Vacation Destinations To Avoid on a Retirement Budget

Discover More: 4 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

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Zurich, Switzerland

Youll pay 24% less for flights to Zurich this year compared to last year. Its an ideal destination for history lovers and foodies alike.

The financial epicenter of Switzerland, Zurich sits on the vast Lake Geneva, Lindsay said. Enjoy a fondue tuk tuk while touring the city and learn about its vast history. Dont forget to taste Swiss chocolate in shops throughout the city.

Trending Now: 8 Tips To Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy

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Nassau, Bahamas

You can fly roundtrip to the Bahamas for less than $250 in some cases  a great flight deal. The cost of flights to Nassau have decreased 23% year over year, the Skyscanner data found.

With shallow, turquoise waters lapping at beaches as white as sugar, The Bahamas is the picture of paradise  it feels much farther from the U.S. than it is, Lindsay said. U.S. travelers are craving island adventure, with 6 out of 10 of the trending destinations for 2024 being island hot spots. With The Bahamas being closer to the coast of Florida than Texas or California, U.S. travelers are taking advantage.

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Brendan van Son / Shutterstock.com

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The average flight price from the U.S. to Dubrovnik is 22% cheaper from January to May 2024 than it was from January to May 2023, the Skyscanner data found. Like Split, Dubrovnik has become a popular destination for history buffs and Game of Thrones fans.

Transport into medieval times in the wonderful city of Dubrovnik, Lindsay said. Visitors can walk along the walls of the castle and venture up and down the streets to explore the little shops and cuisine. Dubrovnik was also a site of filming for Game of Thrones and was a prominent site during the Croatian Independence War in the 90s.

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Bucharest, Romania

Flights to Bucharest are now 22% cheaper compared to last year. This destination has risen in popularity in recent years, perhaps thanks to a popular Netflix show.

Eighty-six percent of U.S. travelers are inspired to book a trip to a destination theyve seen on the big or small screen, Lindsay said. As a result of Netflixs hit series Wednesday, Romania is seeing increased interest. Travelers are leaning into their gothic side to check out for themselves where Wednesday was filmed.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Best International Destinations for Summer Flights on a Budget in 2024
AIG has announced that it has named Gordon Browne as its global head of specialty, effective June 11 2024.

Browne will report to John Hancock, executive vice president and chief executive offer, international insurance, and serve on the international insurance leadership team.

He will be responsible for leading the global strategy to bolster the technical expertise and market positioning of the company's specialty business. This contain global marine, aviation, credit lines and energy and construction.

Previously, he held leadership positions at AIG such as global head of energy & construction.

With more than two decades of executive leadership experience in global specialty insurance, Gordon Browne is uniquely qualified to drive our specialty business forward as we build on our momentum as a leading global property and casualty insurer, said Jon Hancock, executive vice President and Chief Executive Officer, AIG International Insurance. I am pleased to welcome Gordon back to AIG.

Rejoining AIG at this exciting time is an extraordinary opportunity. I am looking forward to working with Jon Hancock and the most talented global team in the industry to drive the companys continued growth and deliver critical technical expertise and differentiated value to our clients and broker partners, Browne added.

In May 2024, AIG reached an agreement to divest a 20% ownership stake in Corebridge Financial to Japans Nippon Life Insurance Company (Nippon Life).

The deal, valued at an aggregate purchase price of $3.8bn (Y595bn), will see AIG selling 120 million shares of Corebridge at $31.47 per share.

Under the terms of the deal, AIG will retain a 9.9% stake in Corebridge for at least two years following the conclusion of the transaction.

Prior to this deal, AIG held nearly a 53% stake in the company.

The transaction is part of AIGs broader strategy to decrease its investment in Corebridge, which it had spun off in a 2022 initial public offering.

"AIG appoints global head of specialty" was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
HEREFORD - The Amarillo College (AC) Board of Regents held its monthly meeting at the Everett and Mabel McDougal Hinkson Memorial Campus in Hereford on Tuesday evening to discuss its presidential search, board leadership and a tax abatement for a local business.

Anette Carlisle, chairperson of the board, discussed the status of the school's search for a new president. At its last session, the board voted not to take action on a presidential finalist.

Amarillo College Board of Regents Chairperson Anette Carlisle listens to a presentation at the Everett and Mabel McDougal Hinkson Memorial Campus in Hereford during the board's meeting Tuesday.

We have talked about opening the position to applications in August so that we can start interviewing in September, but no decisions have been made, Carlisle said. We hope to have a lone finalist by the end of the year. Interim president Denese Skinner is doing a wonderful job, so we will not rush the decision on this particularly prominent position.

Andrew Bowne, previously president of Johnson County Community College, was one of the two finalists who withdrew his name from consideration for personal reasons and accepted the president position on May 15 at Tarrant County Southwest College in Arlington. Bowne was one of more than 20 applicants who applied for the AC position.

Also announced at the meeting was the naming of board member Jay Barrett, a principal for AmTech Career Academy, as the new chairperson, with John Betancourt named vice-chairman. Jeff Turner was also named a non-voting board member from the Dumas campus.

The board unanimously approved an eight-year tax abatement for Sage Oil Vac to expand in Randall County. Under this abatement, Sage Oil Vac will receive an 80% tax abatement for the next eight years, which is expected to result in around $128,000 in tax savings.

Kevin Carter, president of the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, spoke about getting the last entity in place to make Sage Oil Vac's new $12 million facility in the South Georgia Business Park a reality.

When they complete their full expansion, this will add 125 new jobs, which will boost the area economy and create more of a tax base in the community, Carter said.

Carlisle stressed that the deal was good for the community and could create more opportunities for graduates.

This helps improve the workforce, and many of the folks that could be hired could well be trained at Amarillo College, she said. This improves the amount of tax money that the college will use for its programs in the long run. The land as it stands now brings in no revenue, and this adds a lot of value to that land owned by the city. So, while we will only get 20% of taxes for the next eight years, which is more than we are getting now, once the value grows from this company building on it, we will get increased tax dollars into our system, which will benefit students."

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo College addresses president search, OKs business tax breaks
(Reuters) -Applied Materials disclosed on Thursday that it received another subpoena from the U.S. Department of Commerce in May, as regulators request more information on shipments to China.

The largest U.S. semiconductor equipment maker received an SEC subpoena and two from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts. In November 2023 the Commerce Department sent a subpoena "requesting information relating to certain China customer shipments."

Applied Materials is under U.S. criminal investigation for potentially evading export restrictions on China's top chipmaker, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), three people familiar with the matter said in a Reuters report in November.

Applied Materials, which supplies chipmaking tools to Samsung Electronics and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, reported that 43% of its total revenue came from China in the second quarter.

Applied Materials is being probed by the Justice Department for sending equipment to SMIC via South Korea without export licenses, sources told Reuters in November. Hundreds of millions of dollars of equipment is involved, one of the people said at the time.

The company repeatedly shipped equipment from its plant in Gloucester, Massachusetts, to a subsidiary in South Korea and then to SMIC, the people familiar with the probe said in November.

(Reporting by Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber, Arun Koyyur and Richard Chang)
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Checkit is UK0.35 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Checkit is estimated to be 26% undervalued based on current share price of UK0.26

How far off is Checkit plc (LON:CKT) 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. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for Checkit

The Method

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) -UK6.58m -UK3.49m -UK1.55m UK1.08m UK1.70m UK2.38m UK3.07m UK3.71m UK4.27m UK4.74m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 56.97% Est @ 40.41% Est @ 28.82% Est @ 20.71% Est @ 15.02% Est @ 11.05% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 7.9% -UK6.1 -UK3.0 -UK1.2 UK0.8 UK1.2 UK1.5 UK1.8 UK2.0 UK2.1 UK2.2

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK1.3m

After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. 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 1.8%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.9%.

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Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = UK4.7m (1 + 1.8%)  (7.9% 1.8%) = UK78m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK78m ( 1 + 7.9%)10= UK37m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is UK38m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of UK0.3, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 26% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

The Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Checkit 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 7.9%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.123. 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 Checkit

Strength

Currently debt free.

Weakness

No major weaknesses identified for CKT.

Opportunity

Forecast to reduce losses next year.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Significant insider buying over the past 3 months.

Threat

Has less than 3 years of cash runway based on current free cash flow.

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. 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 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 Checkit, there are three essential aspects you should explore:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with Checkit , and understanding these should be part of your investment process. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for CKT's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every British stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? Ideally, a business will show two trends; firstly a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an increasing amount of capital employed. Put simply, these types of businesses are compounding machines, meaning they are continually reinvesting their earnings at ever-higher rates of return. With that in mind, we've noticed some promising trends at China Shenshan Orchard Holdings (SGX:BKV) so let's look a bit deeper.

What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?

For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. The formula for this calculation on China Shenshan Orchard Holdings is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.004 = CN5.2m  (CN1.3b - CN17m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023).

Thus, China Shenshan Orchard Holdings has an ROCE of 0.4%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Food industry average of 7.6%.

See our latest analysis for China Shenshan Orchard Holdings

roce

While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you'd like to look at how China Shenshan Orchard Holdings has performed in the past in other metrics, you can view this free graph of China Shenshan Orchard Holdings' past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

What The Trend Of ROCE Can Tell Us

The fact that China Shenshan Orchard Holdings is now generating some pre-tax profits from its prior investments is very encouraging. About five years ago the company was generating losses but things have turned around because it's now earning 0.4% on its capital. In addition to that, China Shenshan Orchard Holdings is employing 22% more capital than previously which is expected of a company that's trying to break into profitability. We like this trend, because it tells us the company has profitable reinvestment opportunities available to it, and if it continues going forward that can lead to a multi-bagger performance.

One more thing to note, China Shenshan Orchard Holdings has decreased current liabilities to 1.3% of total assets over this period, which effectively reduces the amount of funding from suppliers or short-term creditors. So shareholders would be pleased that the growth in returns has mostly come from underlying business performance.

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What We Can Learn From China Shenshan Orchard Holdings' ROCE

In summary, it's great to see that China Shenshan Orchard Holdings has managed to break into profitability and is continuing to reinvest in its business. Astute investors may have an opportunity here because the stock has declined 45% in the last five years. With that in mind, we believe the promising trends warrant this stock for further investigation.

China Shenshan Orchard Holdings does come with some risks though, we found 3 warning signs in our investment analysis, and 2 of those shouldn't be ignored...

While China Shenshan Orchard Holdings isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
China's top securities regulators and stock exchange officials met with global fund managers in Europe in the first overseas roadshow, days after Beijing delivered its biggest rescue plan to overcome a three-year housing market crisis amid a rebound in stock prices.

Fang Xinghai, vice-chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) led the delegation at a conference in Paris on Wednesday and London on Thursday, according to two officials.

Investors such as Rothschild & Co were briefed about policymaking, investment potential and cooperation opportunities, they added.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Officials from China's central bank, banking and insurance regulatory administration, foreign-exchange regulator and the Shanghai and Shenzhen bourse operators, also joined the meetings. Some 15 companies also made presentations.

Known for his reformist credentials, Fang delivered speeches to convince investors of fairness and transparency on the onshore markets, the officials said on condition of anonymity. China is wooing global funds, after being deemed "uninvestable" by some analysts over its harsh treatment of tech companies.

Fang Xinghai, seen at the 50th World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2020. Photo: Reuters alt=Fang Xinghai, seen at the 50th World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2020. Photo: Reuters>

"The officials must have been very eager to banish the perception that China's stock market is uninvestable," said Ding Haifeng, a consultant at Shanghai-based financial advisory firm Integrity.

"It is unlikely to have great substance, since the property-market bust and overcapacity in the manufacturing sector are weighing on most foreign investors."

Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology, which produces lithium-ion battery materials, and Zhejiang Sanhua Intelligent Controls, a maker of heat control components, were among 15 companies which made presentations at the roadshows, the officials said.

Beijing and the central bank announced a 300 billion yuan (US$41.3 billion) funding support plan last week for state-owned companies to buy unsold homes and land to help cash-strapped home builders and local governments.

The move came amid a rally that has lifted the Hang Seng Index by 26 per cent, and the Shanghai Composite Index by 15 per cent, from their lows this year.

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Chinese assets were shunned by investors who fretted about draconian anti-Covid curbs, a costly crackdown on tech companies and Beijing's common prosperity agenda that erodes corporate earnings. Analysts at JPMorgan called some parts of the market uninvestable due to policy risks.

The roadshows also followed soon after the Biden administration slapped punitive tariffs on US$18 billion worth of Chinese imports, including electric vehicles, critical minerals, solar cells and semiconductor chips to protect American businesses from dumping. The move raised the prospects of another bitter and costly trade war.

The Hang Seng Index has risen 26 per cent from this year's low in January, pushing the market into a technical bull run. Photo: Sam Tsang alt=The Hang Seng Index has risen 26 per cent from this year's low in January, pushing the market into a technical bull run. Photo: Sam Tsang>

The European Commission is separately investigating foreign state subsidies and is expected to impose tariffs higher than the standard rate of 10 per cent on Chinese-made electric cars.

China's yuan-denominated shares are still mostly off-limits to overseas investors, except through an investment link with Hong Kong known as Stock Connect scheme and via China's qualified foreign institutional investor (QFII) programme.

Global companies are also unable to raise funds on China's onshore stock exchanges despite Beijing's pledges to liberalise the world's second-largest capital market.

In June, 2023, Fang told investors at the Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai that China was actively luring foreign funds to the A share market. Foreign capital would continue to pour into mainland-listed equities based on better fundamentals, despite souring US-China relations.

Zhu Haibin, chief China economist at JPMorgan Chase, said on Thursday that expectations of an extended decline in home prices and shrinking incomes among wealthy families, would keep buyers at bay.

The ability of cash-strapped private developers to deliver homes are also causing jitters, he added.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Roger J. Mason is a retiree of Columbus City Schools. The Pickerington resident taught history.

The movement to privatize the State Teachers Retirement System bears a disturbing resemblance to the horrific behavior of corporate raiders during the '70s and, most especially, the '80s in America.

These investment groups purchased hundreds of struggling companies in this era under the guise of making them operate more efficiently.

In their words, they intended to cut the fat, and therefore recue these companies from failure. Reality wound up being very different from this attractive-sounding narrative.

It sounded great... at first

Each of these purchases began with an immediate mass lay off of highly paid union employees. This, of course, goosed the stock price, which went into the pockets of the raiders. It sounds great, but only in the short run.

More: STRS Ohio teachers' pension facing a 'hostile takeover' by private interests, memo says

The next step was to quickly sell off any other valuable assets like real estate, machinery and intellectual property at fire sale prices. Which of course went into the pockets of the raiders, again. There is a pattern here.

In a vacuum, all of these moves sound like solid business practice. After all, the investors are the risk takers, right?

Tragically, it only signaled the beginning of the real plan: a sudden and supposedly unforeseen declaration of bankruptcy which in turn made the liquidation of the legacy pension plans possible.

Wolves in sheep's clothing

May 15, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; A sign hangs outside The State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio board meeting. The state's second largest public pension fund, oversees about $90 billion invested on behalf of 500,000 teachers and retirees. Its 11-member board has been infighting over the direction and governance of the system.

In reality, these raiders had no intention of saving anything. Millions of Americans would lose their jobs. As for the otherwise healthy fully financed pension plans, they would be summarily reduced by bankruptcy court settlements to a few thousand dollars and offered as a lump sum or as a monthly pittance of what it should have been for men and women who paid into those plans for decades.

So, what actually happened to the balance of the money in the pension plans, often worth tens and sometimes hundreds of millions of dollars? Sadly, it would go into the pockets of the corporate raiders as spoils of their supposed risk.

Ironically, under the old system, the money in the pension plan would be untouchable by the legacy business owner. However, a series of new laws allowed the pilfering of this money by the raiders, while placing millions of Americans on government paid welfare programs for the elderly and poor.

To add insult to injury, the raiders would claim a net operating loss due to the reported loss of value of the original company, which meant that all federal tax liability for the raiders and their new profits  could be erased for years, no matter the source.

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Thus, the treasury became deprived of what should be paid, leaving the burden to a less sophisticated, more gullible population of American citizens who cheer for more privatization, no matter the consequences.

All of the above was  and still is  made possible by our elected officials who drafted these laws at the paid behest of the aforementioned raiders and their lobbyists.

R.J. Mason is a retiree of Columbus City Schools.

The experiences of the last 60 years of American industrial history especially in Ohio has led me to be wary of anyone who claims to offer big returns and endless benefits.

If only we would trust the private sector to do a better job than a bunch of overpaid bureaucrats. These terms were selected and underlined to point out how effective they are when they are offered to a gullible audience.

The short answer to any of the issues and controversies surrounding the STRS is to address them with a proverbial scalpel.

If we teachers give over control of our $90 billion nest egg to a group of 21st century raiders, then Don Bartlett and James Steeles warning issued in their 1992 book "America What Went Wrong?" will be nothing more than another shameful footnote in history for man. It will be an unmitigated disaster for a group of teachers who spent more than 35 years paying into a black hole because when the money is gone, its gone forever.

Roger J. Mason is a retiree of Columbus City Schools. The Pickerington resident taught history.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio teacher pension can't fall victim to corporate raiders
A downtown Phoenix development that will include two residential towers, office space and restaurants and retail uses, sandwiched between two light rail stops, will open in the first half of next year.

The project, called Central Station, is under construction south of Civic Space Park in downtown Phoenix, on a 2.6-acre site on Central Avenue north of Van Buren Street. The project was designed to integrate the light rail stops and a bus station into the design.

The early 2025 opening is a slight delay for the smaller tower, which originally was expected to open in late 2024. That tower will have student-oriented housing and traditional apartments.

Both buildings now at their full height

Now, both towers, one reaching 32 stories and the other reaching 22, are expected to open around the same time, said Dusty Smith, executive vice president of GMH, the developer and operator of the project. The development will also include about 70,000 square feet of office space and 30,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurants.

Smith said the exteriors of both towers are between 80% and 90% complete, and the interiors are about two-thirds complete. Now that the buildings have reached their maximum height, the windows, exterior walls and roof will be finished to fully enclose the buildings so the interiors can be completed.

At a ceremony marking the topping off of the tallest tower, a construction milestone marking the placement of the last beam of the building, representatives from the developer and the city recognized the project as a transformative change for downtown Phoenix.

The 32-story tower at Central Station will boast nearly 360-degree views of the Valley.

Project will be a hub for light rail, bus service

This will become the hub of all things transit in downtown Phoenix, Phoenix Councilwoman Ann OBrien said at the event. This site will become so much to so many people.

OBrien said about 180 light rail trips will pass the station each day, and the bus station will have access to five different routes.

Andrew Geier, executive vice president for Layton Construction, the builder of the project, said the location and scope of the building made construction complicated.

When you do a large, complex construction project like this in the middle of downtown Phoenix, its a little like remodeling your kitchen on Thanksgiving, he said.

The taller tower will have traditional apartment units, and 7% of the units in the tower will be designated for affordable housing, said Shaun Gallagher, vice president of development for GMH.

The exterior of the tower that will include student housing and traditional apartments is between 80% and 90% complete, representatives from the developer said.

Shops, restaurants sought for ground-floor space

No businesses have finalized leases for the retail space or office space yet, Smith said, but they have begun to get more inquiries now that the building is about 12 months away from completion.

Gallagher said for the ground-floor retail spaces, they are seeking tenants like restaurants or neighborhood-scale services that could benefit transit passengers and residents who live in the building. The site will not accommodate a full-size grocer, he said, but a smaller, neighborhood-style market could be a good fit.

In the fall, the apartment portion will open a leasing office in the nearby Freeport-McMoRan office so prospective residents can look at the renderings and floor plans and sign leases ahead of the buildings completion, Gallagher said.

Transit center name still up in the air

The transit center portion of the project has been the subject of some controversy regarding the ceremonial naming of the site.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and several members of the Phoenix City Council had suggested naming it to honor former Phoenix Mayor and U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton. However, some members of the council and some community activists have said the station should instead be named to honor the late U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor.

Pastor's daughter, Councilmember Laura Pastor, is among the council members suggesting the center should instead be named for Pastor.

In the works: Want your bulk trash hauled in Phoenix? Soon you'll need an appointment

Reach the reporter at cvanek@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @CorinaVanek.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Central Station tower in downtown Phoenix to open in 2025
US-based healthcare company Encompass Health has opened an inpatient rehabilitation facility in Georgia, US, in collaboration with healthcare network Piedmont Healthcare.

The 40-bed Rehabilitation Hospital of Atlanta is designed to deliver comprehensive rehabilitative services for patients recovering from serious injuries and conditions.

Its primary aim is to assist patients recovering from brain injuries, strokes, amputations, spinal cord injuries and other complex orthopaedic conditions that require them to regain function and independence.

The facility features 40 private patient rooms, a therapy gym with advanced rehabilitation technologies, an in-house pharmacy and a separate dayroom area.

Patients at the hospital will receive at least three hours of intensive therapy for five days a week, as well as frequent physician visits and round-the-clock nursing care.

An interdisciplinary team comprising specialised therapists, physicians and nurses is being employed at the hospital to deliver a range of occupational, physical and speech therapies.

Rehabilitation Hospital of Atlanta CEO Gina Tipton said: We are excited to serve patients in the greater Atlanta area through our partnership with Piedmont.

By providing essential rehabilitation services, we help patients regain function and independence as they recover from major injuries and illnesses. We look forward to positively impacting the lives of many.

The hospital is the 162nd inpatient rehabilitation facility opened by Encompass Health in the US, with seven of these facilities being located in Georgia.

Piedmont Atlanta CEO Patrick Battey said: Having a rehabilitation facility on-site at Piedmont Atlanta will make the experience of transitioning to rehabilitation after a hospital stay convenient for patients.

We look forward to many years of partnership with Encompass Health to provide high-quality, patient-centred care.

The opening of the Rehabilitation Hospital of Atlanta is a continuation of the joint venture between Piedmont and Encompass Health.

Earlier this year, the two companies received the certificate of need for developing a separate 40-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital on Loganville Highway in Georgia.

"Encompass and Piedmont open inpatient rehabilitation facility in Georgia, US" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
By Jody Godoy

(Reuters) -Exiled Chinese businessman Miles Guo scammed his followers out of more than $1 billion after Chinese authorities seized his property, a federal prosecutor said on Friday as Guo's fraud trial began in New York.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Micah Fergenson told jurors that Guo, who was a real estate developer in China and moved to New York, amassed an online following through videos criticizing the Chinese government.

After authorities in China and Hong Kong seized his assets in response, Guo started pitching fraudulent investments to his followers, Fergenson said.

"Miles Guo ran a simple con on a grand scale. He lived a billionaire's lifestyle using money he stole from people he tricked and cheated," Fergenson said.

The Manhattan jury of 12 will weigh allegations that Guo used his prolific online presence and hundreds of thousands of followers to bring in funds he spent on himself and his family.

Guo, who is known by several names including Guo Wengui, Miles Kwok and Ho Wan Kwok, has been jailed in Brooklyn since his March 2023 arrest.

Guo's attorney Sabrina Shroff said in her opening statement that his businesses were legitimate, and that his aim was to build a movement against the Chinese Communist Party.

"It was not a bet, it was not a scheme. It was not a con. It was none of those things," she said.

Many of Guo's actions, such as owning multiple phones and bank accounts, were common-sense protections as the Chinese government continued to try to disrupt his work in the U.S., Shroff said.

The defense lawyer also urged jurors not to judge Guo for the way he spent the huge fortune he had amassed through real estate.

Starting in 2018, prosecutors say Guo touted financial opportunities in Mandarin-language online videos, offering investments in his media company, a purported cryptocurrency venture, and a farm loan program, as well as membership in what was billed as an exclusive club offering concierge services.

Prosecutors said Guo stole from the funds to buy a New Jersey mansion, a yacht, several luxury cars and other extravagances, including two $36,000 mattresses.

Guo faces 12 counts of fraud, racketeering, conspiracy and money laundering. The trial before U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres could stretch into July.

The Beijing critic has been a business associate of former U.S. President Donald Trump's onetime adviser Steve Bannon.

It was on Guo's $37 million yacht, the Lady May, where Bannon was arrested in 2020 in a separate fraud case. That case ended when Trump pardoned Bannon in the waning hours of his presidency. Bannon had pleaded not guilty.

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Guo left China in 2014 during an anti-corruption crackdown under President Xi Jinping. Officials there accused Guo of bribery, money laundering and other crimes, which he has denied.

After moving to the United States, Guo bought a home in the luxury Sherry-Netherland building on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue, and drew ardent fans through his criticism of China's government, including by accusing leaders of corruption.

At Beijing's request, the global police organization Interpol in April 2017 issued a "red notice" for Guo's arrest.

Shroff said in court on Friday that the notice was an attempt to silence Guo after he gave an interview with U.S. government-backed Voice of America.

(Reporting by Jody Godoy in New York; Editing by Sonali Paul, Bill Berkrot and Jonathan Oatis)
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has authorised several firms to restart selling Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) insurance following regulatory action aimed at enhancing fair value for customers.

To resume sales, firms had to demonstrate that their GAP insurance products comply with FCA rules and provide fair value to customers. This regulatory intervention has resulted in significantly lower commission levels for those selling GAP insurance, thereby improving the value for customers.

Sheldon Mills, Executive Director of Consumers and Competition at the FCA, said: "We took action when our data showed that customers were not getting a fair deal. Im pleased that, following constructive engagement with industry, a significant proportion of the market is now able to restart sales. GAP insurance can provide a useful service to customers and we continue to work with the rest of the market to address our concerns.

In February, the FCA announced that multiple insurance firms had agreed to pause sales of GAP insurance following a request from the regulator. This was followed by further engagement in March with the remaining firms in the market.

According to the FCA's 2022 value measures data, there were over 2.4 million GAP policies in force. However, only 6% of the premiums paid by customers were paid out in claims, with some firms paying up to 70% of the insurance premium value in commissions to parties involved in selling GAP insurance.

The FCA has now given the green light for the following firms to recommence selling GAP insurance:

Fortegra Europe Insurance Company Ltd

Motors Insurance Company Ltd

Amtrust Europe Ltd

Financial & Legal Insurance Company Limited

FCA directs top insurers to halt GAP insurance sales for thorough review

Fortegra acquires majority interest in Premia Solutions

"FCA approves resumption of GAP insurance sales" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
A rendering of the Constellation class guided missile frigate Fincantieri Marinette Marine will build for the U.S. Navy.

The Department of Defense has awarded Fincantieri Marinette Marine a contract to build two U.S. Navy frigates, according to the daily Pentagon contract announcements.

The contract, valued at more than $1 billion, is for two Constellation-class Frigates, FFG 66 and FFG 67. The Navy selected the company to build the Constellation-class frigate in 2020.

The team at Fincantieri Marine Group is committed to support the U.S. Navy, and the Constellation program will be the centerpiece of our portfolio for decades, said Marco Galbiati, CEO of Ficantieri Marinette Marine, in a news release.

The company received the contract for the lead ship of the Constellation-Class in April 2020, and since then, the Navy has exercised five options for follow-on vessels. The lead ship, the future USS Constellation FFG 62, is under construction now at the newly revamped Wisconsin shipyard. With five ships waiting to be built and contract options for four more vessels.

In a separate announcement by Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, the FFG-66 will be named USS Hamilton while in New York City for the Navys Fleet Week event.

Secretary Hamilton was a fierce advocate for our nation to establish a Navy, Del Toro said in the release.

USS Hamilton, the fifth of the new Constellation-class frigates, was appropriated in 2024. The other ships in the class are USS Constellation (FFG 62), USS Congress (FFG 63), USS Chesapeake (FFG 64), and USS Lafayette (FFG 65), which Secretary Del Toro named last year in France.

Ariel Perez is a business reporter for the Green Bay Press-Gazette. You can reach him at APerez1@gannett.com or view his Twitter profile at @Ariel_Perez85.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Fincantieri Marinette Marine gets $1 billion contract for 2 frigates
WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler declined on Thursday to preview his agency's decision on ether {{ETH}} exchange traded funds (ETFs), though he advised observers to "stay tuned."

Though he'd reiterated that the court decision on ETFs had caused his agency to "pivot" in its thinking, when asked by CoinDesk on Thursday about what the agency is preparing to do in response to the specific applications on this much-anticipated crypto decision, he largely demurred.

Latest News: SEC Approves Spot Ether ETF Listing, Still Needs to Approve Issuers' Filings

"I don't have anything on this particular filing," Gensler said outside an Investment Company Institute event in Washington.

"We do it within the law and how the courts interpret the law, and that's what I'm deeply committed to," he said, after having noted on stage at the event that the agency had responded to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals decision rejecting the SEC's approach toward spot bitcoin {{BTC}} ETFs earlier this year.

The SEC, after weeks of limited engagement, asked exchanges supporting spot ether ETF applications to refile their 19b-4 forms with universal language earlier this week. Those forms were submitted to the SEC by Tuesday, and the exchanges began publishing them online that night. The SEC also appears to have begun engaging with the would-be issuers themselves, as companies like Fidelity and Grayscale filed updated S-1 forms this week. The SEC has to make a final decision on at least one spot ether ETF application by the end of the day Thursday.

Based on these forms, it appears the SEC is uncomfortable with the idea that ether ETF issuers might stake any assets.

Industry participants previously told CoinDesk that while the SEC's moves this week don't guarantee approval of the ETFs, they make it more likely that the ETFs will be approved.

"[The] DC Circuit took a different view, and we took that into consideration and pivoted," Gensler said on Thursday.

Gensler also reiterated Thursday that his agency would keep working on its opposition to the crypto bill that passed the House of Representatives on Wednesday.

"We'll continue to engage," he said. "It's just a field where the token operators  without prejudging any one of them  aren't making the disclosures that investors really could benefit from and are required by law."

"We've seen leaders in this field find themselves on a pathway to jail or extradition," he added.

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And when asked about Congress seeking to reverse his agency's crypto accounting policy, Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121 (SAB 121), he argued that the agency meant it as guidance at a time when failing crypto firms were having to treat customer assets the same as their own in bankruptcy.

"The crypto that these companies have said they took as custody actually because part of the bankruptcy estate," Gensler said. "That's what we were addressing back in 2022," he added, saying it was "just" an accounting bulletin.

Read more: SEC's Gensler Going Rogue in Solo Quest to Stop U.S. Crypto Legislation?
The excitement of investing in a company that can reverse its fortunes is a big draw for some speculators, so even companies that have no revenue, no profit, and a record of falling short, can manage to find investors. Unfortunately, these high risk investments often have little probability of ever paying off, and many investors pay a price to learn their lesson. A loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the inflow of external capital may dry up.

So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like Thurgauer Kantonalbank (VTX:TKBP). Now this is not to say that the company presents the best investment opportunity around, but profitability is a key component to success in business.

View our latest analysis for Thurgauer Kantonalbank

How Quickly Is Thurgauer Kantonalbank Increasing Earnings Per Share?

Generally, companies experiencing growth in earnings per share (EPS) should see similar trends in share price. So it makes sense that experienced investors pay close attention to company EPS when undertaking investment research. Thurgauer Kantonalbank managed to grow EPS by 4.6% per year, over three years. While that sort of growth rate isn't anything to write home about, it does show the business is growing.

Careful consideration of revenue growth and earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margins can help inform a view on the sustainability of the recent profit growth. Our analysis has highlighted that Thurgauer Kantonalbank's revenue from operations did not account for all of their revenue in the previous 12 months, so our analysis of its margins might not accurately reflect the underlying business. Thurgauer Kantonalbank maintained stable EBIT margins over the last year, all while growing revenue 15% to CHF427m. That's progress.

In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. For finer detail, click on the image.

While it's always good to see growing profits, you should always remember that a weak balance sheet could come back to bite. So check Thurgauer Kantonalbank's balance sheet strength, before getting too excited.

Are Thurgauer Kantonalbank Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

As a general rule, it's worth considering how much the CEO is paid, since unreasonably high rates could be considered against the interests of shareholders. The median total compensation for CEOs of companies similar in size to Thurgauer Kantonalbank, with market caps between CHF1.8b and CHF5.9b, is around CHF1.3m.

Thurgauer Kantonalbank's CEO took home a total compensation package worth CHF996k in the year leading up to December 2023. That is actually below the median for CEO's of similarly sized companies. While the level of CEO compensation shouldn't be the biggest factor in how the company is viewed, modest remuneration is a positive, because it suggests that the board keeps shareholder interests in mind. Generally, arguments can be made that reasonable pay levels attest to good decision-making.

Is Thurgauer Kantonalbank Worth Keeping An Eye On?

One positive for Thurgauer Kantonalbank is that it is growing EPS. That's nice to see. On top of that, our faith in the board of directors is strengthened by the fact of the reasonable CEO pay. All things considered, Thurgauer Kantonalbank is definitely worth taking a deeper dive into. Don't forget that there may still be risks. For instance, we've identified 1 warning sign for Thurgauer Kantonalbank that you should be aware of.

There's always the possibility of doing well buying stocks that are not growing earnings and do not have insiders buying shares. But for those who consider these important metrics, we encourage you to check out companies that do have those features. You can access a tailored list of Swiss companies which have demonstrated growth backed by significant insider holdings.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Invest $50k In This Stock To Become A Dividend Millionaire In 10 Years

Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Warren Buffett, the most successful dividend investor of all time, owes his success to a simple yet highly effective compounding strategy known as dividend reinvestment programs (DRIP). This strategy leverages the power of compounding by reinvesting dividend earnings into stock, creating a snowballing effect that has made the Oracle of Omaha the success he is today.

Long-term dividend investors can take advantage of the DRIP strategy to grow their stock investments into fortunes, and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) is among the growth stocks with the potential to make you a millionaire in about ten years through dividend compounding.

As the table below shows, an investment of $50,000 in Pfizer, with monthly top-ups of $500, could grow to $1,030,974.5 after taxes by 2034, assuming the stock maintains its current annual dividend growth rate of 0.03% and projected stock price growth rate of 25.58%.





Years Shares Owned Initially Starting Stock Price Annual Contribution Year End Dividend After Taxes Final Balance After Taxes 1 1751.00 $28.56 $6,000.00 $2,623.64 $71,633.63 2 1990.64 $35.99 $6,000.00 $3,759.34 $100,017.58 3 2205.88 $45.34 $6,000.00 $5,250.50 $137,272.50 4 2402.81 $57.13 $6,000.00 $7,208.39 $186,171.57 5 2586.29 $71.98 $6,000.00 $9,779.10 $250,355.06 6 2760.26 $90.70 $6,000.00 $13,154.43 $334,601.56 7 2927.87 $114.28 $6,000.00 $17,586.28 $445,183.93 8 3091.67 $144.00 $6,000.00 $23,405.38 $590,336.76 9 3253.74 $181.44 $6,000.00 $31,046.05 $780,869.91 10 3415.79 $228.61 $6,000.00 $41,078.59 $1,030,974.08

Despite Pfizer shares dropping to their lowest level since 2013 due to the decline in demand for COVID-19 vaccines, the companys future looks bright as it continues to roll out new products funded by the profits earned through the vaccine sale windfall. In February 2024, Pfizer announced its plan to have at least eight blockbuster cancer drugs by 2030, following its acquisition of Seagen Inc, a biotech company specializing in research, development, and commercialization of cancer therapies.

Institutional investors are already showing strong interest in Pfizer, with Two Sigma acquiring 18.9 million shares, Point72 Asset Management acquiring 1 million shares, and Susquehanna acquiring 1.5 million shares in the first quarter of 2024. Pfizer currently offers an annual dividend yield of 5.75%, with a 5-year dividend growth rate of 3.70%.

Build Wealth With These High-Yield Alternatives

While investing in dividend stocks like Pfizer can be a powerful way to build wealth over the long term, savvy investors should also consider alternative investments that offer high yields and diversification. Two such options are the Ascent Income Fund and the Arrived Private Credit Fund.

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The Ascent Income Fund targets stable income from senior commercial real estate debt positions, offering a historical distribution yield of 12.1% backed by real assets. With payment priority and flexible liquidity options, the Ascent Income Fund is a cornerstone investment vehicle for income-focused investors. First-time investors with EquityMultiple can now invest in the Ascent Income Fund with a reduced minimum of just $5,000.

The Arrived Private Credit Fund simplifies investing in short-term financing for real estate projects, providing attractive yields secured by quality residential real estate. With target annualized dividends of 7-9%, quarterly liquidity, and a diversified pool of real estate-backed loans, this fund is an excellent complement to equity investing.

While dividend stocks like Pfizer can be an excellent way to build wealth through compounding, investors should also consider high-yield alternative investments like the Ascent Income Fund and the Arrived Private Credit Fund to further diversify their portfolios and maximize their returns. By combining long-term dividend growth with high-yield real estate debt investments, investors can create a resilient, income-generating portfolio that can weather any market condition.

This article Invest $50k In This Stock To Become A Dividend Millionaire In 10 Years originally appeared on Benzinga.com
Foreign direct investment (FDI) has been a cornerstone of Irish economic policy since the countrys investment agency IDA Ireland launched in 1949, but Irelands ties with the life science industry seem to be going from strength to strength.

According to IDA Ireland, over 300 medtech companies are now operating in the country and medtech exports from Ireland are worth more than 13bn ($14bn) a year - 8% of the countrys total exports.

The value proposition for international companies is clear - a low corporate tax rate environment and access to a skilled workforce and the European Union.

Earlier this year, diabetes device maker Dexcom arrived in Ireland, selecting Galway as the location for its first European manufacturing site. The new facility represents a 300m investment over five years and is expected to bring up to 1,000 high-skilled jobs to the region.

We hope Dexcom will be here for many years to come, John Nugent, Head of Medical Technologies at IDA Ireland told Medical Device Network.

There is increased competition in the FDI space, so it was a huge vote of confidence in our medtech cluster that they chose the West of Ireland for their first European facility. 14 of the top 15 medical technology companies call Ireland home and we have a strong relationship with all of them.

And with growing competition from FDI hot spots such as Eastern Europe, Ireland needs to keep up with the competition. According to Nugent, IDAs strategy focuses on Irelands talent pool, global connectivity, and commitment to sustainability efforts.

Sustainability is very big in life sciences, so we always look for ways to support companys green agendas, he explained. In 2023 alone, IDA Ireland approved 25 sustainability projects focused on carbon abatement and building Irelands green economy and we hope this year there will be even more.

Biotech boom

One of the countrys leading success stories is Regeneron, which has earned recognition as one of the Best Workplaces in Ireland. Originally headquartered in New York City, Regeneron acquired a former Dell computer facility in Limerick in April 2014 for its inaugural site outside the United States. Since then, the company has invested over $1bn to establish the largest biologics manufacturing facility in Ireland.

The success of the Limerick site is a key factor to why pharma giant Eli & Lilly has decided to become a neighbour and build a new $1bn biologics manufacturing facility in the region.

The 47,400 square metre plant will consist of a four-storey manufacturing building and around 2,000 people are currently employed in the sites construction phase. Recruitment is also underway for the 300 permanent jobs the site will employ once fully operational in the next three years.

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Eli Lilly wouldnt be here if we werent here, Regenerons Senior Vice President Industrial Operations & Product Supply Niall OLeary told Medical Device Network.

Regenerons decision to come to Limerick all those years ago was strategic as it allowed us to develop relationships with the local universities and recruit the best talent. Add to that the affordable house prices in Limerick, and the Atlantic Ocean on our doorstep  we are attracting the best people and making a statement that is changing the landscape here.

MeiraGTX  Irelands first CGT facility

Smaller biotechs are also tapping into Irelands potential. The arrival of New York-based cell and gene therapy company MeiraGTX was a key milestone for Irish manufacturing. The company opened a new 150,000-square foot plant in September 2022 in a ceremony that included then Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin and is the first in Ireland capable of commercial-scale gene therapy manufacturing.

Although MeiraGTx is a clinical-stage company, the biotech opted to build a site with end-to-end manufacturing capabilities. The site includes three facilities which are built to be flexible and scalable for clinical and commercial viral vector production. Another site is set up for the manufacture of plasmid DNA which performs biochemical quality control testing, and can be used for manufacturing services to potential collaborators.

According to MeiraGTx, the site will help to cut months, or even years, off the time to manufacture cell and gene therapy products. During a tour of the Shannon facility, site operations director Greg Simmonds told Medical Device Network why the company chose Shannon.

IDA Ireland made a strong case to do business in Ireland, he explained.

As a clinical-stage company we wanted a place where we can scale and manufacture multiple things at the same time. Having a site of this size really provides us with the flexibility to increase the capacity of our production. We were also very impressed at the links that Shannon has to other international cities and MeiraGTX hubs such as London and New York City.

According to Simmonds, the company saw an opportunity to pioneer a new wave of biotech R&D in Ireland. The West of Ireland is certainly experiencing a boom and it felt like the ideal time to come here and lead this new era of innovation, he added.

DMI Ireland  digitalising manufacturing

Creating innovative medical products requires talent and skills and for many companies across Irelands life science ecosystem, future proofing their operations has become a major concern. According to research by IDA Ireland, it is estimated that 133,000 skilled scientific and technical workers will be needed across the next decade, 90,000 of which will be in medtech, particularly R&D and manufacturing.

And as digitalisation hits the industry, there is a greater demand for new digital skills. Upskilling is a priority, so we work closely with Irelands educational institutions to ensure we are disrupting the education system and creating the next generation of world class researchers and manufacturers, said Nugent.

Digital Manufacturing Ireland (DMI), a newly established national centre launched by the Irish government in 2023 is designed to assist manufacturers with adopting digital technologies and adapting their supply chains and operations.

According to DMI CEO Domhnall Carroll, the center is committed to working with all manufacturers in Ireland regardless of their technological maturity. Since its launch in early 2023, DMI has observed a growing demand for swift and profound collaboration within the ecosystem, he said. In response, we are establishing Centres of Excellence aimed at expediting the widespread adoption of transformative technologies and practices within manufacturing sites.

But as companies navigate the factories of the future, Ireland may need to tap into talent from other sectors to help drive improvement.

The ecosystem in Ireland is a distinct advantage to us when compared to locations around the world that don't necessarily have that close collaboration or that network that they can rely on, said Mark Hennessy, Executive Director of Manufacturing at Bausch and Lomb.

In Ireland companies are always looking at different and better ways to do things and you can see what other companies are doing thats having a positive impact on their operations.

The global economic slowdown in 2023 impacted Ireland but the domestic economy has showed resilience. In April 2024, Ireland welcomed its youngest ever prime minister, Simon Harris and the countrys economy is expected to grow by 1.2% and 3.6% in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

"As Taoiseach (prime minister), I want to bring new ideas, a new energy, and a new empathy to public life," Harris enthused in his first speech. "Now is an opportune time to build a new social contract  one which renews our promise as a Republic. To create equality of opportunity. To support those who need the state the most. To protect our hard-earned economic success. To use its benefits to deliver tangible outcomes to society."

And with less than a year to go until Irelands next general election, the Irish government will continue to rely on FDI as a central pillar to its economic model, with the life science industry billed as one of the countrys biggest priorities.

We want to be the go-to partner for the industry, said Nugent. Ireland is a global centre for life sciences, and we will continue to create an environment where businesses can thrive.

"Ireland  the jewel in the life sciences crown?" was originally created and published by Medical Device Network, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
We recently published a list titled 7 Stocks to Stay Away from According to Jim Cramer.

Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE) ranks 5th on this list. Let's see why the CNBC host is bearish on the stock.

Jim Cramer in a latest program yet again lamented over the market's obsession about the Fed's stance over sticky inflation, saying the latest Fed minutes from April 30 to May 1 spooked investors because the central bank officials seem to be getting "impatient" with the inflation's slower-than-expected decline.

However, Cramer said that economic data released after these Fed minutes showed that the labor market as well as inflation are cooling, exactly what the Fed wants. Cramer said had the Fed officials seen this data before, their minutes would have been different.

Cramer said that the Fed needs to know that their "inflation lamentation" from three weeks ago isnt necessary.

Jim Cramer said that consumer spending has been the biggest issue for the Federal Reserve as they wonder, "is they any place that's too high for them (consumers)." Cramer acknowledged that without putting brakes on consumer spending it'd be impossible to beat inflation.

However, the CNBC host said that if Fed officials had paid attention they'd have found that they are "finally" winning their battle against consumer spending too.

Jim Cramer said there are "nascent signs" showing that the consumers are finally saying "enough is enough." Cramer pointed to Walmart's latest numbers as a sign of consumers' preference for discount retailers. Cramer said Walmart is one of the few companies offering value in budget.

"After years of seemingly endless price increases, the consumer has had enough. Consumers are now staying more at home."

Jim Cramer also highlighted latest comments from Kevin Hourican, the CEO of Sysco, which supplies food products to restaurants. Hourican said that the industry needs to do "something" about the rising prices that are affecting foot traffic at restaurants.

Cramer Sees a "Consumer Rebellion"

Jim Cramer thinks a "consumer rebellion" is happening in the industry which has executives scratching their heads.

Another sign of this rebellion, according to Cramer, is major companies like McDonald's Corp (NYSE:MCD) rolling out budget options. Cramer said that consumers also has had enough of price increases at McDonald's Corp (NYSE:MCD), and the company needed these budget menu offerings to increase traffic.

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Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE)

Number of Hedge Fund Investors: 15

Jim Cramer was recently asked about LNG solutions company Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE). Cramer said he's not a "big fan" of this stock and instead recommended Corterra Energy. However, last month, Cramer had made positive comments about the stock, saying Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE) would fly if the US government reverses its decision to halt LNG projects expansion, which, according to Cramer, is one of the dumber things the current administration has done.

Over the past one year, Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE) shares have lost about 10% in value.

As of the end of the first quarter of 2024, 15 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey had stakes in Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE).

Earlier this month, Excelerate Energy posted first quarter results. Adjusted EPS in the quarter came in at $0.24, beating estimates by $0.14. Revenue in the quarter fell 5.2% year over year to $200.1 million, surpassing estimates by $171.12 million.

Excelerate Energy Inc (NYSE:EE) ranks 5th in our list of the 7 Stocks You Should Stay Away from According to Jim Cramer.

Click to see Jim Cramer Says You Should Stay Away from These 7 Stocks.

If you are looking for an AI stock that is as promising as Microsoft but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: Michael Burry Is Selling These Stocks and Opportunities in Uranium Stocks.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
A bull run in Hong Kong's stock market has helped raise valuations and improve sentiment among investors, feeding a recovery in fundraising activities on the local bourse and its peers in mainland China, according to JPMorgan Chase.

As such, new listing candidates are becoming more reasonable about their expectations for initial public offering (IPO) pricing, according to Sjoerd Leenart, the US bank's head of Asia-Pacific region. Capital-hungry technology start-ups are also likely to be a key growth driver in the primary market, he added.

"They are more realistic than they were before," he said in an interview in Shanghai on Thursday, adding that most prospective listings in the pipeline were still not massive deals. "For some, the valuation now is good enough and they go to the market. For others, they will hope for more."

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He made the observations as the biggest US bank hosted more than 2,500 delegates and 1,300 companies at its Global China Summit in Shanghai against the backdrop of recent stock gains. The Hang Seng Index has risen 26 per cent from this year's low on January 22, while the Shanghai Composite Index rallied 15.3 per cent from its February 5 low.

The Hang Seng Index has risen 26 per cent since hitting the year's low on January 22. Photo: Jelly Tse alt=The Hang Seng Index has risen 26 per cent since hitting the year's low on January 22. Photo: Jelly Tse>

JPMorgan's chairman Jamie Dimon and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates are among the speakers at the two-day summit. Joe Tsai, co-founder and chairman of Alibaba Group Holding, owner of the South China Morning Post, shared his views on Thursday.

The rally in Hong Kong has added more than US$1 trillion (HKS$7.82 trillion) in capitalisation back to the stock market. Investors have said they were encouraged by policy support from Beijing, as well as portfolio rebalancing as fund managers scouted for better value and abandoned overpriced markets elsewhere.

Kam Shing Kwang, JPMorgan's chairwoman for North Asia, said the rallies have given investors and companies greater comfort and confidence about the market outlook. A slew of supportive economic and market-friendly policies have also aided the turnaround.

Companies are eager to raise funds because markets have adjusted higher, says Kam Shing Kwang, chairwoman for North Asia at JPMorgan. Photo: Handout alt=Companies are eager to raise funds because markets have adjusted higher, says Kam Shing Kwang, chairwoman for North Asia at JPMorgan. Photo: Handout>

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"Market sentiment has improved and companies are also more eager [to raise funds], because obviously the markets have adjusted" to higher levels, she said at the summit. If the IPO pipelines are any indication, "we should be quite confident" that it will only get better, she added.

Gains may extend on the back of strong earnings from Tencent Holdings and Baidu, while Beijing offers greater support to overcome a three-year slump in the housing market. Hong Kong in February scrapped most of its decades-old financing curbs to boost property demand.

IPOs in Hong Kong, Asia's third-largest market, have plunged almost 40 per cent to HK$8.2 billion (US$1.05 billion) so far this year from the same period last year, undermined by a record four-year losing streak in the Hang Seng Index through 2023. They tumbled by a combined 65 per cent in the first quarter to 23 billion yuan (US$3.2 billion) in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing.

About 80 mainland companies have received approvals from the China Securities Regulatory Commission to raise funds via stock offerings outside mainland China, which mainly target bourses in New York and Hong Kong.

Officials from the Shenzhen and Shanghai stock exchanges, as well as those from the cities' biggest companies, are doing roadshows in Europe to promote their markets and credentials.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Marriott International and Chinese hospitality company Delonix Group have unveiled plans for three Tribute Portfolio brand hotel projects in China.

The signings are part of the strategic cooperation agreement announced by the two companies in January 2024.

The first three hotel projects, which are already underway, will mark the Tribute Portfolio brand's entry into China's Xiaoshan, Chongqing, and Jiande regions.

Tribute Portfolio is an independent boutique hotel brand by Marriott.

Expected to open in early 2025, the three upcoming properties are the Grand New Century Hotel, Hangzhou Boao; the Grand New Century Hotel, Chongqing; and the Wonderland Resort, Hangzhou Jiande.

Grand New Century Hotel in Chongqing will feature 210 modern guest rooms and suites and is strategically situated in the citys centre, close to various key tourist venues and business districts, including Chaotianmen Wharf and Hongya Cave.

The Wonderland Resort is situated in the Qililong Area of the Fuchun River  Xinan River Scenic Area in Jiande, Hangzhou. It is adjacent to cultural sites such as Lingshi Temple and Zixu Gorge.

With 203 guest rooms, the resort will include chalets and cottages, designed to provide a vacation-style experience.

Meanwhile, the Grand New Century Hotel, Hangzhou Boao, located in Xiaoshan district, draws inspiration from Hangzhou's rivers.

This property is expected to feature 299 guest rooms and suites.

Marriott International Greater China president Yibing Mao said: We are pleased with how quickly our strategic agreement with Delonix Group has materialised with todays announcement of the first phase.

The confidence that Delonix Group and other owners and franchisees have in Marriott underscores our operational excellence and the power of our brands. We are optimistic in meeting consumer needs, strengthening our brand presence in the region, and driving revenues for owners.

The strategic cooperation agreement aims to add at least 100 properties to the Tribute Portfolio in China over the upcoming years, significantly expanding Marriott's presence in the country.

Delonix Group executive chairman Alex Zheng said: With our local expertise combined with the strengths of Marriott, we look forward to offering more high-quality projects in the future.

"Marriott and Delonix unveil three Tribute Portfolio brand hotels in China" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Taxing millionaires is a contentious issuebut Massachusetts is declaring early victory, with an announcement this week that the states tax on its highest earners has yielded $1.8 billion in additional income. With three more months left in the states fiscal year, the take is already $800 million more than what officials, including Gov. Maura Healey, planned to spend in additional revenue from the tax, according to the State House News Service.

The money from the so-called fair-share tax has been earmarked to boost transportation and education, including giving every public-school child in the state free lunch, Healeys office told Fortune last fall, and while the fate of the surplus funds isnt yet clear, its likely to be designated for capital projects related to education and infrastructure. Those are two areas of immense need, senate budget chief Michael Rodrigues said on the senate floor, according to the State House News Service.

The tax imposes an additional 4% charge on any income over $1 million a year and was approved by voters in 2022, but immediately drew criticism from opponents who warned it would drive out high earners. Florida and New Hampshiretwo states that dont tax income have long been favored destinations for Massachusetts residents looking to escape the states tax regime, Bloomberg Tax noted. Now, progressive proponents are claiming victory in the wake of the Massachusetts haul.

Opponents of the Fair Share Amendment claimed that multimillionaires would flee Massachusetts rather than pay the new tax, and they are being proven wrong every day, Andrew Farnitano, a spokesperson for Raise Up Massachusetts, a group that pushed for the initiative, told the Boston Globe.

With this money from the ultrarich, we can do even more to improve our public schools and colleges, invest in roads, bridges, and public transit, and start building an economy that works for everyone, Farnitano continued.

The right-leaning Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance denounced the tax. Whatever short-term financial benefit the state will receive from the income surtax will be outweighed by the long-term negative effect this tax is having on the state, spokesperson Paul Craney told the State House News Service. Its chasing out high-income earners and making the decision very easy for taxpayers who are regularly impacted by this tax to domicile in more tax-friendly states.

The Tufts University Center for State Policy Analysis, in January 2022, released a report that found the tax would apply to less than 1% of Massachusetts households in any given yearand that while some high-income residents might move to other states, the number of movers would likely be small.

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The news of the first-year success of Massachusettss tax is giving fuel to progressives in other states. In neighboring New York, the group Invest in Our New York called for a similar tax, writing that the Massachusetts experience underscores that taxes on the ultra-wealthy are not only politically feasible, they are a fiscal imperative.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
By Blake Brittain

(Reuters) - Chipmaker Micron Technology owes computer-memory company Netlist $445 million in damages for violating Netlist's patent rights in memory-module technology for high-performance computing, a U.S. jury said on Thursday.

Jurors in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas agreed with Netlist that Micron's semiconductor-memory products infringe two Netlist patents related to technology for improving the capacity and performance of memory modules.

The jury also concluded that Micron infringed the patents willfully, which could lead to a judge multiplying the damages by up to three times.

Representatives for Micron did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the verdict.

"We are grateful for the jury's service, and their recognition of the importance of Netlist's innovation," Netlist attorney Jason Sheasby said in a statement.

Netlist won a $303 million verdict against Samsung in the same court last year in a related dispute over high-performance computer memory patents.

Boise, Idaho-based Micron's stock price has surged this year based on demand for its chips used to power artificial-intelligence technology. Irvine, California-based Netlist sued Micron in 2022, alleging that three of its semiconductor memory-module lines infringed its patents.

Micron denied the allegations and raised several defenses, including arguments that the patents were invalid.

A U.S. Patent and Trademark Office tribunal invalidated one of the patents in April, which could eventually reduce the size of the verdict.

(Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by David Bario and Lincoln Feast)
Tourists get to enjoy all the amenities of Missoula without having to pay local taxes for them, and Missoula County Commissioner Josh Slotnick told lawmakers Wednesday he thinks they should pay their fair share.

Slotnick listed taxing tourists as one proposed solution the state could consider to help give some relief to residents, who recently saw a median property tax increase of 21%, during a presentation to the Local Government Interim Committee. Other solutions included tying property tax rates to median home prices in a county or shifting the tax burden to other tax classifications, like major industries operating in the state.

The Montana legislature has previously considered a local-option sales tax, as Sen. Mary Ann Dunwell, D-Helena, pointed out in the meeting, but the pressure on both parties to take action on property taxes is rising and may lead to action this time around.

Property taxes have become a major issue for Montana residents this year and a point of contention between counties and the state, each pointing the finger at the other for whos to blame for the rate increase. Two commissioners with separate party affiliations spoke to legislators as a way to move towards potential solutions.

Commissioner Joe Briggs, a Republican of Cascade County, joined Slotnick to say although the counties deliver your local tax bill, they are largely not responsible for the amount charged.

I would just hope that everybody remembers that we are acting as an agent of the state in this whole situation, Briggs said. Statute defines how we generate the tax bills.

Slotnick said the current tax system is for a Montana economy that no longer exists, with industrial sectors largely gone and home values rising.

We have homes that cost a lot, no industrial footprint, and two-and-a-half million tourists that came last year. We have to provide services to those folks, he said. So that tax system that was designed from the 1990s, it doesnt work.

If local voters support it, Briggs agreed with Slotnick that charging a local option tourist tax could help localities offset the expenses of services rendered to tourists who dont pay for them. But Briggs said it has to be done in a way that also includes drive through counties.

Theres a lot of counties that are separating Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, for example, and tourists do drive through and use those roads. They may or may not stop for fuel in any given county, so theres a sharing issue there, Briggs said.

Cascade County Commissioner Joe Briggs, seen here during a meeting last December, is working with a Missoula County commissioner on a discussion with state lawmakers about changes to tax policy that could shift some burden from Montana property owners to tourism taxes.

Some smaller Montana communities do something similar, voting to establish a resort district, to charge taxes in heavily trafficked communities. However, they must be smaller than 5,500 people. These communities include Whitefish, Red Lodge, Virginia City, West Yellowstone, Big Sky, Craig, Cooke City, Gardiner, St. Regis, and Wolf Creek.

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Briggs said one solution would be to put a sales tax on select items tourists would likely use and establish an Earned Income Tax Credit to pay residents back.

Slotnick said it could be done through one to one property tax relief.

If we raise a million bucks from tourists, we take a million dollars off of property taxes, Slotnick said, with a 10% carve out to give to those drive through counties.

He said there would be some overlap in a local sales tax, where residents would pay extra at restaurants and bars, but it would still be a massive net gain.

In Missoula County, for locals, at the end of the year you pay less money by having this tourist tax than you would without it in terms of your property taxes, Slotnick said.

He did concede that there would have to be thoughtful consideration for people who dont own property.

We need to figure out a way that if were going to credit families, they need to experience that credit the way they experience their economy, which is on a bi-weekly or month-to-month level, he said.

Another solution Slotnick discussed was to offset the increases to residential properties to other tax bases in the state like industry and big corporations.

If one classification gets a break, another classification gets added on to. It doesnt go away. Its like squeezing a water balloon, he said. And right now homeowners and renters are carrying the overwhelming load of this.

Slotnick said tax increases from residents covered tax deductions in other tax groups, like centrally assessed which he said covers pipelines, telecommunication companies, airlines, Northwestern Energy and railroads.

He said Missoula County saw a $50 million decrease from these industries this year, and noted how properties in different classifications saw huge increases and decreases in the same location.

Its because you didnt just pay your taxes. You covered the tax break for other property tax classifications, this system of 16 different classes that are all assessed differently and have a different tax rate, he said. This system has gone way out of balance.

Slotnick said theres a general confusion around property taxes and that people assume because the bill they received charged them 25% more, that the county received 25% more money, but thats not the case.

We gave our deputies a raise and kept the lights on, and thats pretty much it, he said.

He also pointed out that big spending doesnt always come from local tax dollars, giving the example of federal pandemic response grants Montana counties received.

Another suggestion Slotnick discussed was tying property tax rates to the median home price in a county.

If your house is worth more than that median home price, then the tax rate would go up, he said.

Briggs mentioned as he spoke to legislators that him and Slotnick working together was an Odd Fellows collaboration  with Briggs being a Republican from Cascade County and Slotnick a Democrat from Missoula.

A few years ago, if you had told me that Josh and I would be working together on an issue, I might have found that hard to believe, Briggs said. But the reality is taxation cannot be partisan.

This story was initially published by The Daily Montanan, a nonprofit news organization and part of the States News network, covering state issues. Read more at dailymontanan.com.

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: Missoula County proposal would tax tourism to cut property taxes
US snacks and drinks giant Mondelez International has opened its Regional Biscuit and Baked Snacks Lab and Innovation Kitchen in Singapore.

The $5m facility will be used to develop new products for consumers across Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. It is intended to serve as a strategic regional hub and will augment the company's existing Singapore Technical Centre, which was founded in 2006 and underwent an enlargement in 2018.

The opening was attended by Chan Ih-Ming, executive vice president of the Singapore Economic Development Board; charge d'affaires Casey Mace, Deputy Chief of Mission for the US Embassy in Singapore; Deepak Iyer, executive vice president and president for Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) at Mondelez; and Marco Michielsen, research and development lead for Southeast Asia and vice president of biscuits and baked snacks for AMEA at Mondelez.

Iyer said: At Mondelez International, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of food innovation and product development. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to create a dynamic space where creative ideas can flourish and contribute to the development of new innovative products for our consumers.

This expansion further enhances the capabilities of our Singapore Technical Centre and reaffirms our commitment and contribution to the country, which serves as the headquarters for our Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa business. With a focus on co-innovation, this expansion is designed to help accelerate Mondelezs mission to create the right snack, for the right moment, made the right way.

"Mondelez opens launches $5m Innovation Kitchen in Singapore " was originally created and published by Investment Monitor, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Nvidia "seems bubbly" as its semiconductor market share isn't sustainable, Rob Arnott told CNBC.

Competitors such as AMD and Intel will likely step up efforts to compete with the chip maker.

Nvidia reported another big quarter of earnings Wednesday, beating both revenue and profit estimates.

Nvidia has once again transcended Wall Street estimates, and its latest earnings beat has set off a chain reaction of price target increases.

But among the chorus of bullish excitement, one renowned investor is skeptical about the chip maker's long-term prospects.

According to Research Affiliates founder Rob Arnott, Nvidia's market success is based on the idea that it will continue to dominate the semiconductor industry into the future.

"It seems bubbly," he told CNBC on Thursday. "The price-to-sales ratio is astronomical, and it's astronomical because their profit margins are absolutely ginormous."

He went on: "So, are AMD, Intel, and Taiwan Semi going to sit back and say: 'Oh, you can keep your 50+ profit margins. You can keep your 90+ market share and super chips. Don't worry about it.' No, they're all going to be playing."

Competition among semiconductor players will be good news for artificial intelligence consumers, Arnott said, as it guarantees that AI's power rises as costs go down.

To be sure, Nvidia is currently leading chipmakers by a longshot. The firm, citing that demand still outpaces supply, has already announced estimate-beating guidance for the second quarter.

The company's rise comes as developments in AI have driven a need for its advanced hardware. But this is also true for other semiconductor manufacturers: according to Nvidia-supplier TSMC, the industry faces a 10% sales growth rate.

Additionally, a tech race to implement AI in their products means that multiple chipmakers will be sought after, based on their strengths, Bank of America wrote this month. Among the listed examples were ARM  a blueprint provider for on-device AI  as well as Broadcom and AMD.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Doris Tineo, owner of Afterhours, a venue and event space, poses for a portrait on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Mishawaka.

Doris Tineo was looking for a way to support herself in her newly adopted homeland, so she turned to what she operated in her native Venezuela  a space for weddings, bridal showers, birthday parties and other special events.

Tineo already took a big risk moving from Maracaibo to Mishawaka five years ago, and she says didnt have the time or financial resources to figure out how to get into law, which is what she studied in Venezuela.

Though she was able to pick up jobs easily enough because of her fluency in both Spanish and English, she kept her eye on the possibility of opening her own business, specifically a venue for special events, which she had experience operating in coastal Maracaibo.

AFTERHOURS venue & event space on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Mishawaka.

Venezuelans are very entrepreneurial, she says. We prefer working for ourselves rather than for a big company.

While settling into her new life with her then 21-year-old son, Tineo finally settled on opening a venue here and learned about the help offered for would-be entrepreneurs by the nonprofit C2 Your Health Women's Initiative.

Tineo found affordable space in McKinley Commons plaza at Grape Road and West McKinley Avenue in Mishawaka, which has gained a Smoothie King, Big Lots, Home Outlet, Johns Auto Spa and other new tenants in recent years.

Redeveloping: Home Outlet store marks another step in the metamorphosis of old shopping plaza

Called simply Afterhours, Tineos event space is on the still-redeveloping western side of the plaza with Dream Nails nearby but also some empty storefronts, which she hopes are filled in the near future.

With a lack of visability by passersby on Grape or McKinley, Tineo hopes she can attract enough business with ample parking, affordable rates, unique events and a revamped interior. The interior of the bright space is filled with unique pieces and artistic touches that Tineo created on her own.

This is a recent wine tasting event at Afterhours in McKinley Plaza in Mishawaka.

Though she took possession of the space in October, the opening was delayed until recently because she did most of the decorating work by herself and she was amazed by the number of permits that were required to renovate and open a new business.

I have a new degree in permits, the energetic business owner says. And because of what shes learned, she says, opening a second location or a separate business in the future will be a lot easier. Im committed to this business and maybe another.

A table created by Doris Tineo sits in her new business, Afterhours, a venue and event space, on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Mishawaka.

In middle age, Tineo has taken risks at a time when most are looking ahead toward retirement. In her move from Venezuela and the opening of the business, she has taken a gamble that would make most people squeamish.

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With a capacity of 70, Afterhours currently offers a wine and canvas event on Saturdays at 11 a.m. that is conducted by Tineo, who counts art among her many passions, and entrepreneurship classes might meet there on Wednesdays.

As shown May 21, 2024, Afterhours, a venue and event space, recently opened in McKinley Commons in Mishawaka.

But Tineo is looking for groups and individuals who might be looking for affordable space for meetings and special events. Bululu Tropical, a Venezuelan restaurant and treat shop in nearby Town & Country shopping center, will be the principal caterer for the space, but people are free to hire their own caterer or bring their own food.

Afterhours also has a beer and wine license for those interested in more adult-oriented celebrations. Cost of the space is $500 for Fridays and $700 for Saturdays, with special pricing offered for meetings. Tineo's goal is to fill the calendar.

Even though she was familiar with much of the United States because of regular vacations and time spent living here when her father attended graduate school in Massachusetts, Tineo ended up locating in Michiana because she likes the size of the community  not too big and not too small.

As shown May 21, 2024, Afterhours, a venue and event space, recently opened in McKinley Commons in Mishawaka.

"Ive even grown to like the winters, she says.

For more information on pricing or to arrange a tour, contact Tineo at 574-320-4716. Or visit the business on Facebook or Instagram.

Email Tribune Market Basket columnist Ed Semmler at esemmler@sbtinfo.com.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: New spot in Mishawaka offers affordable space for parties, meetings
The government of Ontario, Canada, has begun developing a healthcare facility to serve the French-speaking community in Timmins and the nearby area.

For its new facility, the Centre de sante communautaire de Timmins (CSC Timmins) will receive C$1.1m ($800,800) for the initial planning, as well as a C$15.6m ($11.3m) investment from the province.

CSC Timmins offers services such as primary care, addiction and mental health support, as well as other programmes for early childhood and chronic diseases in two temporary locations.

The funding will allow these services to be consolidated into a single, modern facility to improve the delivery of healthcare to the community.

Once completed, the new CSC Timmins facility is projected to provide around 18,000 primary care visits and connect up to 20,000 individuals to various health programmes a year.

The facility will also offer practical training opportunities for medical students, contributing to the government's efforts to strengthen Ontario's health workforce and support underserved communities.

Ontario Deputy Premier and Health Minister Sylvia Jones said: Our government is continuing to take action to connect Ontarians to more convenient care, closer to home.

The new Centre de sante communautaire de Timmins facility will connect the Francophone community in the region to the comprehensive and culturally appropriate health care services they need in one modern location, for years to come.

In a separate development, the Ontario government has confirmed an investment of up to C$2.5m to support the construction of a ten-bed children's hospice in the Hamilton region for Kemp Care Network.

Expected to open in 2026, the Keatons House  Paul Paletta Childrens Hospice will provide comprehensive palliative care for youth and children with life-limiting illnesses.

It will offer respite care, symptom management services and residential care, as well as at-home services provided by visiting volunteers.

"Ontario government begins developing CSC Timmins healthcare facility in Timmins" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Raqami Islamic Digital Bank Ltd. (RIDBL) has announced a strategic partnership with 1LINK, one of Pakistans largest Payment Service Providers.

A distinguishing feature of RIDBL will be its status as a Shariah-compliant and purely digital entity, eschewing traditional brick-and-mortar branches in favour of a streamlined, mobile-first approach.

Among the services set to be offered to RIDBL customers through this partnership are Interbank Funds Transfer (1IBFT) and 1BILL. In future, PayPak will also be added as part of the offering to customers.

The collaboration will enable RIDBL customers to transfer funds to over 32 banks and make payments to over 2,500 companies nationwide

Umair Aijaz, CEO RIDBL, said, We are excited to partner with 1LINK and bring cutting-edge digital financial services to our customers. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our mission to redefine the customer journey and truly empower users of RIDBLs banking services with efficient and seamless multi-channel payment options.

Najeeb Agrawalla, CEO 1LINK, commented: The collaboration between 1LINK and Raqami Islamic Digital Bank represents a strategic alliance providing customised financial solutions to a wide range of customer segments. This strategic alliance marks the dawn of a new era of innovation and accessibility in Islamic banking, catering to the unique needs and preferences of our discerning clientele.

Bashir Khan, COO 1LINK, added: This partnership represents a pivotal achievement in the banking sector, enabling Raqami Bank to pioneer innovation and deliver customised products and services to its customer segments utilising 1LINK rails. It further highlights 1LINK's steadfast dedication to ongoing innovation, positioning it as the preferred partner for financial institutions aiming to elevate their digital solutions.

As RIDBL embarks on its journey to improve the banking experience, it does so with a commitment to establishing a fully shariah compliant digital bank with innovation and customer-centricity at its core.

"Raqami Islamic digital banking and 1LINK join forces" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Russian palladium and platinum producer Nornickel is planning to develop a platinum group metals (PGMs) refinery in Bahrain, reported Reuters, citing a source familiar with the matter.

Details have not been disclosed regarding the project's timeline or the refinery's production capacity.

The company accounts for 41% of global palladium mine output and 12% of platinum.

The news of the planned refinery comes as King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.

Following the discussion, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak revealed on state television that Nornickel intends to build "a platinum production plant" in Bahrain.

Despite the imposition of Western sanctions on Moscow in the wake of Russia's military actions in Ukraine in 2022, Nornickel has not been a direct target.

However, several Russian precious metals refineries, which typically handle PGMs, have faced sanctions.

Nornickel currently produces PGM concentrates from disseminated ores from its Taimyr mines and the Severny mine on the Kola Peninsula, according to Interfax.

These concentrates are toll-refined at various facilities including Krastsvetmet, the Prioksky Non-Ferrous Metals Plant and JSC Uralintekh, where standard ingots are produced.

Nornickel is also engaged in the production of high-grade cobalt, copper, gold, iridium, nickel, rhodium, ruthenium, selenium, silver, sulphur and tellurium.

Last year, Nornickel offloaded Norilsk Nickel USA, its exclusive distribution company for nickel, PGMs and cobalt in the Americas, to TMP Metals Group.

"Russias Nornickel to build platinum group metals refinery in Bahrain" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Sienna Resources has expanded its mining portfolio with the acquisition of the Case Lake West Cesium and Spodumene Pegmatite Project, located in the Larder Lake Mining division of Ontario, Canada.

The project, which spans approximately 2,200 contiguous acres, is positioned directly next to Power Metals Corp's Case Lake cesium and pegmatite swarm discovery.

The proximity to Power Metals Corp's discovery, which reported "World-Class Cesium results up to 18.13% at Case Lake" on 22 May 2024, underscores the potential of the region as a growing cesium district.

Sienna's management, however, has stated that previous results or discoveries on neighbouring properties may not necessarily reflect the mineralisation on Sienna's own holdings.

In addition to the Case Lake West Cesium Project, Sienna has recently acquired several other significant mining projects.

These include the 10,357-acre Uranium Town Project adjacent to Denison Mines, the 10,845-acre Dragon Uranium Project neighbouring Cameco Corporation and the expansive 55,440-acre Atomic Uranium Project in Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin.

Sienna also expanded the Elko Lithium Project in Elko County, Nevada, US. This project, comprising around 1,840 contiguous acres, shares a border with Surge Battery Metals' Nevada North Lithium Project, which has announced the highest-grade lithium deposit in the US.

Furthermore, Sienna is among the larger landholders in Clayton Valley, Nevada, with projects including the Blue Clay Lithium Project, the Silver Peak South Project and the Clayton Valley Deep Basin Lithium Project.

Commenting on the latest acquisition, Sienna president Jason Gigliotti said: "Management is pleased to be able to acquire the Case Lake West Cesium and Spodumene Pegmatite Project directly bordering Power Metal's Case Lake discovery. This area is very active currently and management is looking to start operations as soon as possible.

Gigliotti further continued: Sienna has been building a strong portfolio of Canada-focused assets in 2024, primarily in uranium and now for cesium and lithium. Sienna management plans to continue and build on this trend in the future.

"Sienna Resources acquires cesium and spodumene pegmatite project in Canada" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.







The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Despite all his talk of growth and stability Sir Keir Starmer's arrival in No 10 would herald the end of days for London-listed stocks - Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire

The broker Hargreaves Lansdown may soon succumb to a bid from private equity. The mining giant Anglo American may have been taken over by the end of the summer. The video games company Keywords Studios may be acquired by a Swedish buyer.

It has been yet another terrible week for the London stock market, with a sense that the exodus of listed companies is starting to accelerate again.

Heres the problem, however. No one should imagine that the decline of the London market has hit bottom. Under a Labour government it would get far, far worse. From new green rules, to state-directed investment, to declining valuations, a Starmer administration could finally kill off what remains of the market  and it will soon be too late to do anything about it.

That the Cambridge-based computer manufacturer Raspberry Pi will list on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) later this summer was a rare piece of good news for the City. And yet no one should kid themselves that one floatation will be enough to reverse the decline of what used to be Europes largest stock-market.

The departure of Hargreaves and Anglo American, both big beasts in their sectors, will add to the list of major businesses that have decided listing shares in London is no longer worth the expense and hassle.

Last year, only 23 issuers listed in the City while the total number of quoted companies has fallen by 25pc over the last decade. At the current rate, the last listed company may have left the market sometime in the 2050s. The stock market may cease to exist.

You might think that an incoming government, especially one that had promised to boost growth and stability, would make reviving the London market a key priority. Yet right now, it looks as if Labour would accelerate its decline. There are three big reasons why a Starmer administration will be terrible both for investors, and for companies raising capital.

First, shadow energy secretary Ed Miliband has already signalled he will impose a whole new set of green investment rules to make sure that companies are playing their full part in hitting Net Zero targets.

They will have to publish their global carbon footprint every year. They will have to demonstrate annually that their strategies comply with the Paris Climate Treaty. And investments made by fund and pension managers will have to show that they comply with a green taxonomy, whatever that might mean.

Sure, the proposals may sound well-meaning and will doubtless be accompanied by reports, albeit ones packed full of meaningless guff. But it will add to the expense and complexity of listing, not to mention acting as a deterrent for basing a business here.

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At a time when companies are already quitting the UK because they cant be bothered with, or bear the expense of, all the codes, targets and regulations they are forced to comply with, Miliband will pile on more red tape.

Ed Miliband's promised roll out of even more red tape for British corporates will further erode business confidence - Belinda Jiao

Next, the shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves is planning to raid the money in the UKs pension funds. A big chunk of it will be diverted, under Treasury direction, into infrastructure investment, or into newer unquoted businesses, preferably in green or socially responsible sectors.

Perhaps its a good idea  but to take such a view requires immense faith in the intelligence and foresight of Reeves and her team to believe they can really pick the industries of the future. But there will surely be even less money to go into the existing 1,800 listed companies.

Finally, returns will be dismal anyway. We can all argue about whether the Tories or Labour are better at managing the economy (both of them seem fairly inept at present). And yet, there is little question about which is better for investors.

According to research by the brokers AJ Bell, since the 1960s Conservative governments have witnessed real returns of 17pc for the FTSE All-Share Index over the term of each administration. Under Labour the real returns have been minus 9pc. London has already significantly under-performed just about every other major market in the developed world. That is one of the main reasons companies no longer list in the City. Their share price will do better somewhere else.

Under Labour, the historical record shows that will get a lot worse. London will be trapped in a vicious cycle of diminishing returns leading to fewer listings, leading to even lower returns. Once that gets established, it will be virtually impossible to break out of.

On top of all that, we will see a clamp-down on non-doms, possibly higher corporation taxes, more windfall taxes, potentially a wealth tax further down the line, and a raft of new rights for employees. Add it all up, and the verdict is surely clear. The environment for doing business is becoming more and more hostile.

We cannot be complacent. After all, there used to be thriving stock markets in Liverpool and Manchester which only finally disappeared in the 1980s after many years of steady decline.

With another five years of more regulations, higher taxes, and dismal returns, the London stock market may well become a historical curio as well. A Starmer-led Labour government will finally have finished it off.

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Tesla broke ground on a new manufacturing plant in Shanghai on Thursday, just weeks after CEO Elon Musk made a surprise visit to China in a bid to shore up the carmakers slumping sales.

The factory, which was announced in April last year, aims to begin production in the first quarter of 2025. It will be able to make 10,000 Megapacks  very large batteries used to store huge amounts of electricity  each year, according to a statement by Lingang Group, the government-owned developer of the area housing the plant.

The battery facility will be close to Teslas Shanghai Gigafactory, which is the companys largest plant outside the United States, producing almost one million cars a year.

Megapacks are meant to be used to help stabilize energy grids. Each unit can store enough energy on average to power 3,600 homes for one hour, the company says. They are designed to be deployed by utilities and power stations.

The $200 million project comes as tensions between Beijing and Washington are rising over geopolitics and trade barriers, and underscores the US carmakers commitment to China, the worlds largest EV market and Teslas primary vehicle export hub.

For Tesla, its an important milestone, Tom Zhu, senior vice president of Tesla, was quoted as saying in an article posted on the Shanghai government website on Friday.

Rising tensions

While most Western companies are face rising barriers to doing business in China, things have been smoother for Tesla.

Shanghai said Friday it had taken both sides only a month to negotiate and conclude a deal to build the factory on the land near Teslas Gigafactory. The company was able to move similarly quickly when it built that first factory in 2019.

Wu Xiaohua, a Shanghai government official, said at the commencement ceremony Thursday that the city would assist Tesla in finishing the construction and putting the factory into operation as soon as this year.

Musk met with Chinese premier Li Qiang during his visit late last month. Li praised Tesla as a successful model for US-China collaboration.

Beijing has been ramping up efforts to accelerate EV production to counter a property-induced economic slowdown and promote a low carbon economy. But as domestic demand weakens, Beijing is also encouraging manufacturers to seek new growth opportunities in overseas markets.

That puts the industry at the heart of growing trade tensions with the US and Europe.

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden said that tariffs on $18 billion worth of imports of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and an array of other products would soar over the next two years.

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EVs imported from China will see their tariffs nearly quadruple from 27.5% to 100%, a policy lever meant to challenge Beijings practice of encouraging aggressively low pricing by domestic EV manufacturers while levying a 40% tariff on US car imports.

The White House said the measures were designed to protect American workers and businesses in the face of Chinas unfair trade practices, including flooding global markets with artificially low-priced exports.

Speaking in January, Musk said Chinese EV makers could put many of their rivals out of business unless tariffs were raised.

Frankly, I think if there are not trade barriers established, they will pretty much demolish most other car companies in the world, Musk told analysts on an earnings call.

At a tech conference in Paris this week, he struck a different tone, saying he was opposed to measures that distorted the market.

Neither Tesla nor I asked for these tariffs, in fact I was surprised when they were announced, Musk told VivaTech 2024 via video link, according to Reuters.

Tesla competes quite well in the market in China with no tariffs and no deferential support. Im in favor of no tariffs, Musk said.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Tesla CEO Elon Musk, head of the world's largest EV manufacturer, doesn't want Washington's help in the auto market. Last week, the Biden administration announced it will hike tariffs on Chinese EVs to 100%, due to alleged unfair policies on the part of Beijing and a need to protect U.S. jobs.

On Thursday, Musk said he disapproved of the new U.S. tariffs. "Neither Tesla nor I asked for these tariffs. In fact, I was surprised when they were announced," he told a technology conference in Paris via video link.

"Things that inhibit freedom of exchange or distort the market are not good," he continued.

During an earnings call in January, Musk called Chinese car companies the most competitive in the world. Without trade barriers, he told analysts, Chinese EVs "will pretty much demolish most other car companies in the world."

Non-Chinese car companies are struggling to compete with Chinese manufacturers. Foreign brands like Volkswagen and Nissan were slow to switch to EVs, allowing local firms to take market share. Now, competitive Chinese companies, like BYD and its ultra-affordable cars, are threatening to unseat legacy automakers in markets like Europe and Southeast Asia.

Musk doesn't think Tesla needs government help to survive. "Tesla competes quite well in the market in China with no tariffs and no deferential support," he said on Thursday. "I'm in favor of no tariffs."

Tesla is China's second-largest seller of "new energy vehicles," a category that includes both battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, only behind BYD.

Dueling tariffs

Western governments have been scrutinizing Chinese-made EVs in recent months as they accuse Beijing of fostering "overcapacity"the idea that the government, through subsidies, is encouraging companies to produce more than what the local market can consume and dumping the surplus overseas at artificially low prices.

Last week, China said it "strongly opposed" the latest round of U.S. tariffs, which also hit goods like semiconductors and medical products, and pledged to take action. Soon after the Biden administration unveiled its new tariffs, Beijing launched an anti-dumping probe into polyformaldehyde copolymer, a chemical product, from the U.S., Europe, Taiwan and Japan. The chemical is a kind of plastic used in electronics, auto parts, and medical equipment.

The European Union is also considering additional tariffs on Chinese EVs, as part of an anti-subsidy probe launched last October. An April report from the research firm Rhodium Group predicts the EU will impose tariffs in the 15% to 30% range.

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Yet the firm warns that Chinese producers will still be able to generate comfortable margins at those tariff levels. Duties may need to be as high as 50% for the European market to be unattractive to Chinese manufacturers.

China is also considering imposing tariffs on imported cars. A report from the state-run Global Times published on Tuesday suggested China could raise tariffs to 25%, citing an expert from a government affiliated auto research body. China currently has a 15% import tariff for cars.

Chinese EV manufacturers have resisted suggestions that their success is due to government support. European accusations "do not make sense," William Li, founder of Chinese EV startup Nio, told the Financial Times on Thursday. Executives from Chinese EV firms like BYD and Great Wall Motor have also rejected the West's "overcapacity" argument.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
If we want to find a stock that could multiply over the long term, what are the underlying trends we should look for? In a perfect world, we'd like to see a company investing more capital into its business and ideally the returns earned from that capital are also increasing. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. Having said that, from a first glance at Japan Foods Holding (Catalist:5OI) we aren't jumping out of our chairs at how returns are trending, but let's have a deeper look.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

Just to clarify if you're unsure, ROCE is a metric for evaluating how much pre-tax income (in percentage terms) a company earns on the capital invested in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Japan Foods Holding:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.041 = S$2.0m  (S$87m - S$38m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

Therefore, Japan Foods Holding has an ROCE of 4.1%. On its own that's a low return on capital but it's in line with the industry's average returns of 4.1%.

See our latest analysis for Japan Foods Holding

roce

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Japan Foods Holding compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free analyst report for Japan Foods Holding .

So How Is Japan Foods Holding's ROCE Trending?

In terms of Japan Foods Holding's historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 4.1% from 14% five years ago. However, given capital employed and revenue have both increased it appears that the business is currently pursuing growth, at the consequence of short term returns. If these investments prove successful, this can bode very well for long term stock performance.

On a side note, Japan Foods Holding's current liabilities have increased over the last five years to 44% of total assets, effectively distorting the ROCE to some degree. Without this increase, it's likely that ROCE would be even lower than 4.1%. What this means is that in reality, a rather large portion of the business is being funded by the likes of the company's suppliers or short-term creditors, which can bring some risks of its own.

The Key Takeaway

While returns have fallen for Japan Foods Holding in recent times, we're encouraged to see that sales are growing and that the business is reinvesting in its operations. These growth trends haven't led to growth returns though, since the stock has fallen 25% over the last five years. So we think it'd be worthwhile to look further into this stock given the trends look encouraging.

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Japan Foods Holding does have some risks though, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Japan Foods Holding that you might be interested in.

For those who like to invest in solid companies, check out this free list of companies with solid balance sheets and high returns on equity.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
The metro-easts unemployment rate is up slightly compared to last year, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, but who qualifies for unemployment benefits in the state?

The southwestern Illinois area has an unemployment rate of 4.4% as of March, compared to 3.8% in March 2023. More than 313,000 residents across the Land of Lincoln were unemployed as of April, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports.

More than 19,000 layoffs were reported in Illinois in 2023, the BND previously reported. This number doesnt include employees of smaller companies that arent required to provide notice.

Being laid off in a no-fault situation is generally accepted as a valid reason to claim unemployment insurance in Illinois, but what if you voluntarily quit your job? Heres what to know about eligibility and applying.

Who is eligible for unemployment assistance in Illinois?

To be eligible to receive unemployment insurance in Illinois, you must have earned enough money in the past 18 months for the state to establish a weekly benefit amount, the Illinois Department of Employment Security website says.

You must also have an acceptable reason for leaving your previous job, including a no-fault circumstance, such as a layoff or discharge.

If your reason for leaving your last job isnt deemed acceptable, youll need to do an interview with a department adjudicator. The interview usually takes place two weeks after you submit your claim, and youll be able to present information showing why you believe your reason is acceptable.

The adjudicator will then make an eligibility decision after doing research, which may include contacting your prior employer, calling a witness or other fact-finding measures.

You can file an appeal if your claim is denied.

To file for unemployment insurance online, you will need the following information:

Social Security number and name as it appears on your Social Security card

Drivers license or state identification card

If you are claiming your spouse or child as a dependent, youll need their name, date of birth and Social Security number.

Name, mailing address, phone number, employment date and separation reason for each employer you worked for in the last 18 months. You may also need wage records from these employers.

If youve worked since Sunday of this week, you must report all gross wages for any work performed, full-time or part-time. The wages must be reported in the week they are earned. If your gross earnings are less than your weekly benefit amount, you may still receive a full or partial benefit payment.

Records of any pension payments you are receiving (this excludes Social Security)

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need your Alien Registration Information

If you are a recently separated veteran, you will need a copy of the DD form 214/215

If youve been separated from work as a civilian employee of the federal U.S. government, youll need copies of your Standard Form 8 and Personnel Action Form 50.

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Are you eligible for unemployment if you quit?

Illinois residents who quit their jobs can only qualify for unemployment insurance if they quit for good cause, the Illinois Legal Aid Online website says.

Good cause equates to specific reasons to quit that are considered a constructive discharge, meaning any reasonable person in a similar position would have quit.

Potential good cause reasons to quit may include, according to Illinois Legal Aid Online:

Employer broke state or federal law

Working conditions or terms of employment changed

Coworkers or supervisors were abusive

Employer refuses to pay your wages for work you have done

Your hours, benefits or pay rate were cut

Boss changed your work shift, causing child care or transportation issues

The One Day Rest in Seven Act requires that employees be given a meal period of at least 20 minutes for every 7.5 hour shift beginning no later than 5 hours after the start of the shift.https://t.co/nOaSIR2Djk pic.twitter.com/3jlAikhzMG  IL Dept. of Labor (@ILDeptofLabor) May 17, 2024

This is not an exhaustive list of qualifying reasons to leave your job. Other typically acceptable reasons include quitting due to a health problem, to take care of a family member who is sick or disabled, because of rights you have as a contracted union member, because of a domestic violence situation or because youre moving for your spouses job or military assignment, Illinois Legal Aid Online reports.

These reasons are generally not considered good cause:

Lack of child care (unless due to a change in work shift)

Lack of transportation to work (unless its due to a change in workplace location)

Job-related stress

Youre not getting along with your coworkers or boss

A small decrease in pay, hours or benefits

If you believe your employer has violated labor laws, you can file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor online or in person at a DOL office.

Do you have a question about employment in Illinois for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Metro-east Matters form below.
As the Singapore market continues to navigate through evolving global economic conditions, investors are keenly observing how local companies adapt and thrive. Amidst these dynamics, dividend stocks remain a focal point for those seeking potential stability and consistent returns. In this context, understanding the fundamental qualities that contribute to a strong dividend stock is crucial, especially in an environment where efficiency and innovation are increasingly valued.

Top 10 Dividend Stocks In Singapore

Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Civmec (SGX:P9D) 6.20%  Singapore Exchange (SGX:S68) 3.59%  Yangzijiang Shipbuilding (Holdings) (SGX:BS6) 3.47%  BRC Asia (SGX:BEC) 7.66%  UOB-Kay Hian Holdings (SGX:U10) 6.92%  UOL Group (SGX:U14) 3.62%  Bumitama Agri (SGX:P8Z) 6.88%  Singapore Airlines (SGX:C6L) 7.15%  YHI International (SGX:BPF) 6.63%  Sing Investments & Finance (SGX:S35) 6.09% 

Click here to see the full list of 20 stocks from our Top SGX Dividend Stocks screener.

Let's dive into some prime choices out of from the screener.

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Yangzijiang Shipbuilding (Holdings) Ltd. is an investment holding company that specializes in shipbuilding, operating across Greater China, Canada, Japan, Italy, Greece, other European countries and internationally, with a market capitalization of SGD 7.31 billion.

Operations: Yangzijiang Shipbuilding (Holdings) Ltd. generates revenue primarily through its shipbuilding segment, which contributed CN22.79 billion, and its shipping operations, which added CN1.02 billion.

Dividend Yield: 3.5%

Yangzijiang Shipbuilding (Holdings) Ltd. recently declared a tax-exempt final dividend of SGD 0.065 per share for FY 2023, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders. Financially, the company reported a significant increase in net income to CNY 4.1 billion from CNY 2.81 billion the previous year, with earnings per share also rising sharply. The dividends are well-supported by both earnings and cash flows, with payout ratios of 33.6% and cash payout ratio at 19.1%, indicating sustainability in its dividend payments amidst financial growth.

SGX:BS6 Dividend History as at May 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Bumitama Agri Ltd. is an investment holding company focused on the production and trade of crude palm oil and palm kernel in Indonesia, with a market capitalization of approximately SGD 1.21 billion.

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Operations: Bumitama Agri Ltd. generates revenue primarily from its plantations and palm oil mills, totaling IDR 15.44 billion.

Dividend Yield: 6.9%

Bumitama Agri Ltd. has recently enhanced its board with the appointment of Ms Ng Yi Wayn, aiming to strengthen governance and risk management. The company declared a final dividend of 3.63 SGD cents and a special dividend of 1.92 SGD cents for FY 2023, payable in May 2024, showcasing a commitment to shareholder returns despite an unstable dividend history over the past decade. Financially, dividends are supported by a low payout ratio of 40.4% and cash flows with a cash payout ratio of 60.8%, although earnings are expected to decline annually by 5.5% over the next three years.

SGX:P8Z Dividend History as at May 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Singapore Exchange Limited operates as an integrated securities and derivatives exchange with related clearing houses in Singapore, boasting a market capitalization of approximately SGD 10.13 billion.

Operations: Singapore Exchange Limited generates revenue primarily from two segments: Segment Adjustment (SGD 0.84 billion) and Fixed Income, Currencies, and Commodities (SGD 0.37 billion).

Dividend Yield: 3.6%

Singapore Exchange offers a 3.59% dividend yield, which is modest compared to the top quartile of Singapore's dividend stocks at 6.19%. Over the past decade, its dividends have shown stability and growth, supported by earnings with a payout ratio of 63% and cash flows with a cash payout ratio of 79.1%. Despite trading below estimated fair value by 7.5%, prospective earnings growth stands at a mild 3.13% per year, suggesting cautious optimism for sustained dividend performance amidst stable financial backing.

SGX:S68 Dividend History as at May 2024

Next Steps

Delve into our full catalog of 20 Top SGX Dividend Stocks here.

Are you invested in these stocks already? Keep abreast of every twist and turn by setting up a portfolio with Simply Wall St, where we make it simple for investors like you to stay informed and proactive.

Maximize your investment potential with Simply Wall St, the comprehensive app that offers global market insights for free.

Looking For Alternative Opportunities?

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.

Companies discussed in this article include SGX:BS6 SGX:P8Z and SGX:S68.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Im waxing nostalgic.

For the past few days Ive been helping my daughter plan a cross-country family trip.

Now shes got me wanting to go.

She wants to take her kids on the same kind of trips that our family took when she was a child. Her oldest is 14, her middle child is 12 and the youngest is 7. All are now old enough to remember the things they will see. She and her husband have three weeks vacation and theyre ready to hit the road.

We took three such trips when my children were growing up, one all the way to California, one to the Yellowstone country and a third through St. Louis to Colorado. They were great experiences, and my three children remember the trips fondly  even if they did fight in the back seat halfway across the country.

My daughter is trying to plan everything down to a T. We just hopped in the car with a general idea of our destination and took off. Mostly we wound up at our destination. Sometimes, however, our adventuresome spirit took us elsewhere. No matter, we had fun.

Thats what our trips were  adventures. We didnt plan every days activities. We let the trip come to us, stopping at places that we found interesting, discovering tourist traps that were not listed on the maps.

We seldom stayed in any one town more than a single night. We took in the major sights and hit the road again, always looking for the next bit of excitement.

We had a good breakfast before we left the hotel, often ate bologna sandwiches at a rest stop for lunch and had a good meal at the end of the day. We traveled cheaply.

As I offered travel suggestions to my daughter, memories of those old trips came to mind. I remember my oldest daughter having the courage to try a buffalo burger at Wall Drug in South Dakota, my son finally learning to swim at a motel pool in Albuquerque and my middle daughter, who is planning this trip, being scared to death at the top of a dormant volcano in Arizona.

I remember the engine of my in-laws car, which we had borrowed because it was bigger, overheating as we crossed the Mojave Desert (we drove through 110-degree heat with the heater on to displace engine heat) and the brakes overheating as we came down the mountain from the redwood forest. There was always some type of excitement.

Some days we would cover 500 miles. There were few days when we drove less than 200 miles. We were always looking for the next big adventure.

We always went to the library before our trips to take out books for the kids on the various states we would pass through (there were no cell phones or tablets in those days). The trips were entertaining, but they were also educational.

In fact, three trips were primarily educational. In the third or fourth grade the kids were required to pick a state and report on it. We decided to take each child to his state the following summer.

My oldest daughter picked Tennessee (where she would eventually go to college), so we went to Nashville and Knoxville, with a side trip to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Our youngest picked Maine, which took us to L.L. Bean and Acadia National Park.

The middle child, being a typical middle child, picked Arizona, which was a long haul. Still, she got to her state and learned about it.

By making these trips, my children were able to visit more than 40 continental states before they graduated from high school. They saw the United States up close and personal, from the cornfields and hog lots of Iowa to cliff dwellings in Colorado.

Our trips were ones of exploration, nothing closely planned, but adventures to see what we could find next. And we found plenty. I wouldnt trade the memories of those trips for anything, and neither would my kids.

Some families like to go sit on the same beach for a week every summer. That was never for me. I always wanted to see new places, to learn what this great country was all about.

I instilled that yearning for education and adventure in my children and thankfully they want their kids to see America, too. And a Griswold family cross-country trip is the way to do it.

It takes courage to travel 2,500 miles with three kids cooped up in the back seat, but, believe me, it is worth the effort.

Im ready to go again.
Increased travel through the Colorado Springs Airport is expected during the Memorial Day holiday weekend after a strong April.

More than 20,000 passengers are expected to board planes between Thursday and Tuesday, and a total of 40,000 passengers to travel through the airport. Thats a 10% increase over the same travel period in 2023, according to Colorado Springs Airport spokeswoman Dana Schield.

Peak travel days are expected to be Thursday, Friday and Monday, Schield said. We encourage travelers to arrive at least 90 minutes to two hours before their flight is scheduled to depart.

If parking lots are at capacity during peak travel times, passengers are encouraged to use overflow parking, Schield said.

As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, more than 40 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday, according to AAA. If those numbers bear out, it will be the busiest Memorial Day weekend in nearly 20 years.

That will likely mean jam-packed airports in Denver and Colorado Springs. Officials at Denver International Airport expect nearly 450,000 travelers to go through security this weekend.

The Transportation Security Administration says up to 3 million might pass through airport checkpoints on Friday alone.

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And that is just a sample of what is to come. U.S. airlines expect to carry a record number of passengers this summer. Their trade group estimates that 271 million travelers will fly between June 1 and Aug. 31, breaking the record of 255 million set  you guessed it  last summer.

There's certainly no slowdown at airports. The number of people going through security checkpoints is up 3.2% this year. The TSA said it screened 2.85 million people last Friday and nearly as many on Sunday  the two busiest days of the year so far.

The expected busy weekend ahead at the Colorado Springs Airport comes after it saw a total of 194,004 passengers travel through the terminal in April, representing a 15.4% increase from the same month last year. Enplanements were up by 15.6% year-over-year, with 97,293 travelers boarding a plane.

We have consistently seen an increase in traffic at COS, and as we approach the summer months, we anticipate that this trend will continue, said Greg Phillips, director of aviation at the airport.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
U.S. Reps. Joe Neguse and Yadira Caraveo, both Democrats, ranked as the most bipartisan members of Colorado's House delegation last year in an annual index released jointly by the nonpartisan Lugar Center and Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy.
A Pueblo Air Force veteran, who died in New York and was buried last year as an unclaimed veteran, will be heading home for reinterment at Pikes Peak National Cemetery in Colorado Springs, according to the family of Alvin Pugh and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Pugh was 60 and living in the Bronx in February 2022 when the daily contact he kept with his family suddenly ceased. His siblings in Colorado spent more than two years, tapping every resource, military and municipal, trying to find him.

In March, a Google search by Patti Pugh returned a link with a newly-entered record of Alvins burial at Calverton National Cemetery. Next of kin hadnt been alerted because authorities determined none existed.

Patti and Kennedy Pugh set out on a mission, to bring Air Force Staff Sergeant Alvin Pugh back to the state where he was known and loved, and to make sure what happened to him never happens to another veteran.

Read the full story Sunday on gazette.com
A preliminary autopsy by Otero County Coroner suggests 3-year-old Amari Galan of Rocky Ford died from an accidental drowning.

Galan's body was found Saturday several miles downstream from his family's home in an irrigation canal. He had been reported missing the day prior after he wandered away from his home in the 900 block of Washington Street in Rocky Ford.

An Endangered Missing Alert bulletin was issued for Galan, who was reported to have special needs.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation along with other nearby agencies confirmed that the body found was Galan.

The final report will be submitted to the 16th Judicial District Attorney's Office, according to the news release.
Gov. Jared Polis on Wednesday signed several bills into law, including multiple measures aimed at advancing the state's renewable energy goals.

Polis, who visited the northern part of the state, stopped at the North Range Behavioral Health in Greeley, where he signed Senate Bill 115. The bill removes the need for mental health professionals to explain different levels of regulation to clients and eliminates the master's exam requirement for social work licensure.

It also requires candidates for licenses, such as clinical social workers and family therapists, to pass the Colorado jurisprudence exam. Additionally, the bill allows candidates to renew their registration if they're unable to complete the post-degree licensure requirements within four years and reapply if their regulations have expired.

The bill was sponsored by Sens. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Jim Smallwood, R-Douglas County, as well as by Reps. Mary Young, D-Greeley, and Emily Sirota, D-Denver.

Polis then traveled to Fort Collins City Hall, where he signed House Bills 1370, 1334, and 1336.

HB 1370 requires the Colorado Energy Office to solicit interest from local governments in becoming "gas planning pilot communities" that will explore alternatives to traditional gas service to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the bill, gas planning pilot communities are places where residents receive gas service from a utility and have an active franchise agreement with that utility.

By April 30, 2025, the Energy Office and utilities must identify up to five potential pilot communities and submit a draft agreement to the Public Utilities Commission, which will then have two months to approve or modify the list. Utilities and approved communities will be required to agree on projects by October 1, 2025.

Expanding and maintaining natural gas infrastructure is expensive, and this law will help drive down the cost of natural gas in communities across the state by strategically exploring opportunities to utilize alternative energy sources,  said sponsor Rep. Cathy Kipp, D-Fort Collins. By creating pilot communities which use alternatives to natural gas, we can help reach our climate goals and expand cost-effective alternative energy sources into homes across our state. This law saves people money on their energy bill and speeds up our clean energy transition.

The bill was also sponsored by Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, and Sen. Faith Winter, D-Westminster.

Both House Bills 1334 and 1336 both address broadband deployment in Colorado. House Bill 1334 prohibits property owners of multi-unit buildings from denying broadband providers access to a property to install infrastructure for high-speed broadband service, while 1336 repeals the state's broadband deployment board and transfers the function of awarding grant money for broadband deployment in underserved areas of the state to the Governor's Office of Information Technology.

HB 1334 was sponsored by Rep. Andrew Boesenecker, D-Fort Collins, and Sen. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, while HB 1336 was sponsored by Reps. Jennifer Parenti, D-Erie, and Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, and Sens. Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Kevin Priola, D-Henderson.

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At Boulder Junction in Boulder, the governor signed Senate Bills 207, 218, and 185.

Senate Bill 207 requires investor-owned electric utilities to offer specific amounts of community solar capacity depending on their size by January 2026. The bill also requires utilities to purchase all output of new solar facilities and provide bill credits to subscribers.

Additionally, utilities that serve more than 500,000 customers will be required to acquire 50 megawatts of distributed generation paired with energy storage by June 1, 2026, with an additional 50 megawatts of distributed generation required between January 1 and June 1, 2027.

The bill was sponsored by Sens. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Reps. Matt Soper, R-Delta, and Alex Valdez, D-Denver.

Senate Bill 218 establishes an $800,0000 grant program to support lineworker apprenticeship programs. It also requires large electric utilities to upgrade their distribution systems to support state and federal electrification and decarbonization goals, and mandates utilities to implement undergrounding of utility distribution infrastructure in certain areas by January 1 of next year.

Additionally, the bill creates a virtual power plant program and tariff for performance-based compensation for virtual power plants.

The bill was sponsored by Sens. Chris Hansen, D-Denver, and Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and Reps. Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge, and Kyle Brown, D-Louisville.

Senate Bill 185 makes changes to the regulations for pooling mineral interests in oil and gas drilling units by requiring applicants to submit an affidavit confirming they have ownership or consent from other owners within in the drilling unit.

The bill also allows unleased mineral owners protest applications and prohibits drilling without a pooling order if the unleased owner has rejected a lease offer. In addition, the bill bars the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission from pooling mineral interests from local governments that have rejected lease offers.

The bill was sponsored by Boulder Democrats Sen. Steve Fenberg and Rep. Judy Amabile.
The man accused of killing a 25-year-old woman in unincorporated El Paso County last year could have his trial postponed after his attorney filed a motion alleging misconduct on the part of the prosecution.

Kevin Rued, 23, faces several charges, including first-degree murder, for allegedly killing Sylena Maldonado in unincorporated El Paso County in May 2023.

According to previous reporting from The Gazette, deputies responded around 3 a.m. May 28 to the 2000 block of B Street, where they found Maldonado suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Maldonado was taken to a hospital, where she later died.

Rued appeared to court on Thursday for his pre-trial readiness hearing, where his attorney Nick Rogers announced "conditionally ready," pending the outcome of a motion he filed earlier that afternoon.

Rogers alleged that the prosecution has not disclosed the criminal histories of all named witnesses for trial to the defense. Rogers stated that the lack of those criminal records being provided was a "clear" violation of rule 16 and sanctions must be imposed.

Prosecutor James Bentley stated that he did not believe any sanctions were needed, and that if the prosecution did not provide the criminal records of witnesses to the defense that it's an easy fix and they would be disclosed in the coming days.

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Judge William Moller opted to delay Rued's pre-trial readiness hearing to June 6 to allow for the prosecution to file a response to the defense's motion alleging rule 16 violations.

At the June 6 hearing Moller could decide to implement sanctions on the prosecution, which could include delaying Rued's trial or even dismissing the case. Alternatively, Moller could rule that there was no wrongdoing on the part of the prosecution and no sanctions be imposed.

According to previous Gazette reporting, this is not the first time Rued has been arrested for shooting someone in the head. In 2016, a then 16-year-old Rued was arrested in Fountain for allegedly shooting an unidentified 18-year-old in the back of the head.

The victim survived the shooting, and court records show that Rued was initially charged with attempted first-degree murder but pleaded guilty to first-degree assault. As part of the plea agreement Rued was sentenced to five years in the youthful offender system (YOS) with a stipulated 20 years in the Department of Corrections should he not comply in YOS.

Rued currently resides in the El Paso County jail on a no bond hold after being found to be in contempt of the court in January, according to court records. Prior to the contempt of court finding Rued was in custody on a $300,000 bond.
The partys latest move to the hard right is a directive to parents to remove kids from the public education system.

The Colorado Republican Party is issuing a call to its members to pull their children from public school, saying Democrats are using schools to turn more kids trans.

The message was delivered in an email blast to Republicans statewide on Tuesday.

All Colorado parents should be aiming to remove their kids from public education, read the directive from Darcy Schoening, director of special initiatives for the Colorado GOP.

Schoening is a former leader of the El Paso County chapter of the conservative activist group Moms for Liberty.

Under the leadership of Colorado GOP Chairman Dave Williams, the state Republican Party has tacked to the hard right despite holding less electoral power than at any time since before World War II.

Culture war issues, like attacks on gay and transgender people, especially youth, have become a focus of Republicans nationwide in 2024.

The Colorado GOP opposes a new measure requiring schools to use childrens preferred names, even if they have not gone through a legal name change.

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The bill was passed into law by the Democratic majority at the State Capitol and recently signed into law by Democratic Governor Jared Polis.

If your child decides he identifies as a girl because he is angry with you, or all of his friends are doing it, the Colorado government will actively encourage his new fetish by allowing him to identify as "she," "they," or whatever nonsensical terms your son's teachers and peers may dream up, the email read, in part.

The Colorado GOP attacked two Democratic LGBTQ sponsors of the bill, saying they do not know their own genders and do not have children.

Colorado Republicans 2022 nominee for Governor, Heidi Ganahl, issued a similar call for families to abandon the public education system last year.

Speaking to the Truth and Liberty Conference in Woodland Park, which mixed anti-LGBTQ rhetoric with calls for Christian dominance of government, Ganahl said children should be removed from public schools and placed in church-run schools.

Ganahl said Colorados public schools teach that parents are not to be trusted, that government is God, that sexual deviance is King.

For more on this and other stories, visit our partner at 9News.com.
The water year 2023-24 is showing signs of being one of the warmest on record, according to a state climatologist who presented the latest water data to the state's water watchers Tuesday. Water years run from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30.

The group, formerly known as the Water Availability Task Force and now known as the Water Conditions Monitoring Committee, also got an update on the status of reservoirs in Colorado, which is quite good compared to previous years.

Russ Schumacher, a state climatologist with the Colorado Climate Center at Colorado State University, said during the meeting that almost everywhere in the state has been in the top 10 of warmest years out of 129 years of recordkeeping.

The exception has been in the central and southern mountains.

But May has made up for a lot of that, with some of the wettest conditions, thanks to big snowfalls in the central mountains in late April and early May. He noted that for Alamosa, for example, May has been the second-wettest month on record. But there's context to that, Schumacher explained: Alamosa got 1.46 inches of precipitation over a three-day period from May 9 to 11, the second-most on record going back to 1935.

That's a lot for Alamosa, but Schumacher noted Yuma got at least 2 inches of rain in 20 minutes on Monday.

Warm conditions in southwestern Colorado have meant the snowpack is melting rapidly, according to Brian Domonosko of the Natural Resources Conservation Service with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The snowmelt has been ahead of schedule in the southwestern area, which includes the San Juan, San Miguel, Dolores and Las Animas rivers, and for the Rio Grande in the San Luis Valley. The southwest area lost more than 8 inches of snowmelt over 14 days in April, some of the most rapid snowmelt in the past 16 years. The upper Rio Grande similarly experienced rapid snowmelt, losing almost 6 inches of snowmelt in that same 14-day period in April.

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Peak snowmelt has been delayed in other parts of the state, due to some of those intense mountain snowstorms in late April and early May, and that meant the peak for the South Platte Basin, for example, was delayed by more than three weeks. The peak was also delayed by three weeks for the North Platte Basin.

The upper Arkansas, for example, regained more than 2 inches of snow water equivalent, a measurement of how much water comes from the snow, in a four-day period in early May. Schumacher said that was the largest four-day increase on record for the Arkansas Basin for this late in the year.

Snowpack statewide is at 109% of median, Domonosko said. He anticipates near normal runoff in the Colorado River Basin, the upper Arkansas and in Northern Colorado.

Colorado is likely headed to a La Nina summer and fall, which means dry conditions for much of the state.

Reservoir storage, however, is well above average, and well above levels even from a year ago. That's good news for the state's largest reservoirs, Blue Mesa in Gunnison County and Navajo, which straddles the Colorado-New Mexico border near Durango.

Drought conditions are beginning to creep into the state, with Prowers County, in southeastern Colorado, with the most severe drought conditions statewide.

Overall, about 38% of the state is experiencing low-levels of drought, primarily in the southwest and southeastern plains. But even that news isn't bad: Much of the state has improved in its drought conditions, save for southeastern Colorado, and in the San Luis Valley, the improvement has been dramatic.

All of those conditions contribute to soil moisture, which is well above average in the San Luis Valley and in southern Park County. Soil moisture, which examines the amount of moisture in soil that isn't saturated, "plays an important role in agricultural monitoring, drought and flood forecasting, forest fire prediction, water supply management, and other natural resource activities," according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
As population rises and costs increase, the Peyton Fire Protection District is embarking on a plan to expand the nearly-all volunteer force serving a section of unincorporated northeastern El Paso County.

Currently staffed with 17 volunteers and one full-time deputy chief, the district serves upward of 1,440 households, according to chief Jeff Turner. The five-year plan he sees for the district includes decreasing response times by adding stations and bringing emergency medical services within the district.

The plan is similar to that of Colorado Springs as both entities look at possible ways to replace ambulance service American Medical Response with in-house EMS services. Fire protection districts in Falcon and other areas in El Paso County have implemented similar plans.

Turner said that bringing EMS into the purview of the district has been long-term goal during ongoing contract disputes with the private ambulance provider. He said that the same response time and staffing issues that have plagued AMR in the city are compounded in the country.

PFPD firefighters call in helicopters frequently when AMR or adjoining fire department services are upward of 20 minutes away from a life-threatening medical emergency, according to Turner.

"Time is heart and time is brain," he said, referring to life support priorities.

Another effort to decrease response times cleared one hurdle on Thursday, as a zoning exemption for a second, unmanned fire station in the northeast section of the district passed in a Board of El Paso County Commissioners land-use meeting.

The parcel, if later construction plans are approved, will house a fire truck, engine and water tender according to Turner. The station will also have a 30,000-gallon-capacity underground cistern, which he said will "substantially" decrease the insurance protection class rating of all residences within a 5-mile radius. While no one will man the station, volunteer firefighters will have a shorter commute to needed equipment, he said.

PFPD manager David Solin said that plans for the station have not been finalized, but that the district had been considering the new station "for several years."

Both projects require funding, however, which could be a significant burden for a district tied to no municipality and which has a current year-to-year budget of about $300,000, according to Turner.

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"It's like juggling chainsaws," he said.

The first phase of EMS services is set to start on June 1 with the district's two ambulances and crews. All but one of the 17 volunteer firefighters are EMT-certified, meaning the district will be able to transport patients under a "basic life support" rating.

The next phase would be training or hiring paramedic-certified firefighters so that the ambulances could be run under "advanced life support," which includes higher levels of in-transit care.

Turner said that a volunteer fire district has difficulty attracting any volunteers, much less those with lucrative qualifications like paramedic licensing.

"The volunteer pool is shrinking," he said. "Most people don't want to do it."

PFPD volunteers undergo hours of monthly training and long overnight shifts. Turner said an overnight structure fire can leave an unpaid firefighter with a long day ahead.

"You're coming off of that fire getting ready to go to work," he said.

Prompt staffing is crucial for medical emergencies, which require at least one person to render aid while another drives. It's also crucial for fast-developing wildfires, which Turner said are a concern around the Palmer Divide and the eastern edge of Black Forest.

Peyton firefighters were first responders to the Birdseye fire in 2021, in which a quick, multi-agency response was credited with preventing the blaze from threatening large nearby housing developments.

"Eastern El Paso County has had tremendous luck with wildfires," said Turner.
The first-ever Outside Festival is less than 10 days from setting up shop in Denver's Civic Center Park, and tickets to the 3-day festival and summit are still available.

The official line-ups for each day have been finalized as well, with the addition of Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet to speak along side Sen. John Hickenlooper on Friday at the Summit at the Denver Art Museum.

Dozens of outdoor brands will have booths in the park as well.

Here are 6 brands to check out:

 High West Distillery - The Park City, Utah-based distillery was the first ski-in gastro distillery in the nation, and for the Outside Festival, the company is bringing its Whiskey Train  a mobile bar and pouring station serving up the Whiskey of the West.

High West also partnered with snowboarding legend Shaun White to help raise awareness for the company's "Protect The West" Initiative  a commitment of $1 million over three years to organizations who share High Wests passion for the West, including preventing wildfires, protecting winters and wildland preservation.

 SENIQ - An outdoor apparel brand bringing fashion and form to women. SENIQs innovative performance wear excels at being both technical and trend driven and the brand integrates form and functional features across all of their garments to support women for their entire lifestyle from street to trail.

Founded by Madison Poitinger and Valentina Thompson, the two met in high school and reconnected years later when they were both working at Victorias Secret. They bring over 10 years of experience in the retail space, specifically in the outdoor apparel industry, having worked across brands including Outdoor Voices and Backcountry.

 Nutshell - Beginning as a graduate school project to improve local fish packaging in the Philippines, Nutshell became a business that makes and sells biodegradable packaging under the Fortuna Cools brand and sustainable consumer products like the Nutshell Cooler.

Using agricultural waste, Nutshell repurposed the waste to create premium insulation, partnering with coconut fiber processors in rural communities to create jobs and support local business. The company even has a Chief Coconut Officer named Justino 'Bo' Arboleda.

 Itacate - Itacate comes from the Nahuatl word Itacatl, meaning food that you take on a journey and also the bundle of food that you are given to take home with you at the end of a family gathering. Itacate founder Martha Y Diaz of Mexico discovered backpacking in college, but lacked the funds initially to participate and was also intimidated by the lack of diversity in the space. Once out on the trails as well, Diaz also found something else was missing; comfort food she could relate to from her home country. Itacate was then born.

The Latin backpacking food comes in four offerings currently: Charge-Up Chilaquiles, Sunset Caldo, Campsite Lentejas and Aventura Arroz con Leche, all sold at REI and on Itacate's website shop.

 Hootie Hoo - Born from a mom's love for her children and outdoor industry experience, children's outdoor wear lacked a brand specifically designed for kids. What founder Claire Zhu saw being offered as kids clothes either was a direct scale-down of adult products  too many features, too expensive  or just not technical enough, leading to wet and cold kids. Hootie Hoo was born to help solve this problem.

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Every feature of Hootie Hoo clothes has a purpose, streamline production costs, and have a focus on breathability and water-proofing.

 Community Gearbox - This digital product is an app for outdoorsy people and organizations to gather, share and co-own gear with people they know and trust while promoting a "consume less" mission by systematically decreasing individual consumption, global waste and mitigate climate change.

How it works:

1. Launch or join a "community" with your friends

2. Link together what you own.

3. Assemble collections for projects & activities.

Community Gearbox said users of the app can be: Friends & Family, Outdoor Groups, Housemates & Next Door Neighbors, Hobby & Game Clubs, Organized Communities, Youth & Student Clubs, Collectives & Nonprofits, Cooperatives & Small Businesses, Farm & Land Projects and Disaster Preparedness Groups.

Other details about Outside Festival:

 Broadway will be closed between Colfax Avenue and 14th Avenue and 14th between Bannock Street and Broadway will be closed to vehicles and open to foot traffic during the festival due to the Outside Festival occupying Civic Center Park and the Big Gear Show and (r)evolution events occupying Veterans Memorial Park.

 Eleven musical acts will perform at the main stage in Civic Center Park

 20 films will be shown and 25 speakers will talk at the Denver Art Museum

 Programming starts at 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday and runs to 10 p.m.

 Thundercat headlines 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Fleet Foxes headlines 8:30 p.m. Sunday

"Attendees of the inaugural Outside Festival are truly going to be blown away by everything we've put together this year, Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside Interactive said. This festival is packed with value and inspiration, offering the opportunity to hear from and see 25 outdoor visionaries, this festival is going to be incredible. You wont want to miss it."
U.S. 50 Blue Mesa Middle Bridge is getting fixed.

The Colorado Department of Transportation hosted meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday to detail how the bridge, closed on April 18 due to cracks in the steel bridge structure, will be repaired and at least partially reopened to traffic by July 4.

A full opening of the bridge is anticipated for this fall.

The meetings coincided with Gov. Jared Polis issuing an executive order on Wednesday, allocating disaster emergency funds to rebuild the bridge. The order also allocates funding toward the response, closure mitigation and recovery efforts for impacted communities.

The Blue Mesa Bridge is a major connection to many residents in Gunnison, Hinsdale and Montrose counties, with the closure adding more than five hours to many area residents' commutes.

"The closure of the Blue Mesa Bridge creates significant strains on the local economy, health and medical services including emergency care, education, agricultural activities, and daily travel to and from work for community members," notes Polis' executive order.

Agriculture agonies

The public information officer for the Incident Management Team for Blue Mesa Reservoir Bridge Closure, Anne Reid, is excited on behalf on both the agriculture community and small businesses in the area.

"The agricultural community here is very prevalent," Reid said. "Concerns from agriculture communities really came up quickly."

Before trailers were allowed on County Road 26, farmers were forced to take the six- to eight-hour loop to get where they needed to be since they were unable to travel the bridge. The distance was hard on the health of baby cattle and other young animals.

The agricultural community has been working to set up a fund to help producers with some of the burden and cost incurred due to the U.S. 50 bridge closure. The fund will be hosted by the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy.

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Alongside farmers, small business owners also took a hit due to the restricted access to shops near the Blue Mesa Reservoir. Many of the stores saw a decrease in traffic due to the lack of through-traffic.

Bridging the gap

Critical inspections have been done for the bridge and inspectors identified approximately 118 critical inspection locations that contain internal defects. All of the defects were measured by a project team and it was determined the bridge could be opened to limited loads once all of the initial surface cracks are repaired. While the internal defects require repair for long-term use of the bridge, they do not pose an immediate threat.

CDOT will work on repairs in phases. Phase one will prioritize fixing the cracks and other critical issues in four areas that pose a risk to the bridge's structural integrity. These repairs will ensure that emergency vehicles and lighter loads are safe traveling until the rest of the permanent repairs can be completed.

Wednesday's CDOT statement cautions that completion of the first phase is dependent on a variety of factors, especially weather. Subsequent phases of work are planned to strengthen the bridge and address internal defects, and allow for heavy load vehicles to pass safely. These phases will tackle the internal defects. CDOT intend to bring the bridge back to its original structural standards.

Secondary safety inspections will continue and will help further confirm structural integrity and repair design.

CDOT and its contractor partner, Kiewit Infrastructure, anticipate being able to reopen the bridge to additional motor vehicle traffic during the course of the repairs. Phase two will require more time to complete but can be completed safely in between in-service traffic openings on the bridge.

The completion should be done by the fall.

"I'm excited for visitors from all over to see beautiful areas around the Gunnison and Montrose area, and to be able to have that access again so they're not having to worry about it," Reid said.

More on the repair project, and the current status of road travel through the affected area is available at www.codot.gov/news/2024/may/cdot-announces-us50-blue-mesa-bridge-repair-plan.
Top Chinese diplomat meets special advisor to Brazilian president

Xinhua) 08:35, May 24, 2024

Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, holds talks with Celso Amorim, chief advisor to the President of Brazil, in Beijing, capital of China, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with Celso Amorim, special advisor to the president of Brazil, in Beijing on Thursday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said that China and Brazil are both major developing countries and emerging economies, as well as major members of BRICS, and bilateral relations go beyond the bilateral scope and have strategic and overall significance.

Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of China-Brazil diplomatic ties, Wang said that the two sides should systematically review the successful experience of the development of bilateral relations in the past 50 years. They should take into account the changes in the international situation and the respective development strategies of both countries while making strategic plans with a forward-looking vision, so as to inject new connotations into China-Brazil relations, set new development goals, and jointly embrace the next "golden 50 years."

Wang noted that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with the international situation becoming chaotic and intertwined and hotspot issues emerging one after another.

It is heartening to see that the "Global South" countries represented by China and Brazil have achieved a collective rise and promoted a more balanced and reasonable structure of world power, he said.

China will fully support Brazil's work as the rotating presidency of the G20 this year, and stands ready to work with Brazil and other G20 members to ensure the success of the G20 Rio Summit, said Wang, noting that China attaches importance to promoting cooperation with the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), and is willing to strengthen coordination with Brazil to push for greater development of relations between China and Latin American countries.

Noting that Brazil-China relations go beyond the bilateral scope and have strategic significance, Amorim said that the sound development of Brazil-China relations is not only beneficial to the two countries, but also plays an important role in safeguarding the common interests of developing countries and is conducive to world peace and stability.

Amorim said that Brazil attaches great importance to cooperation with China, adding that China is Brazil's largest market, and the trade volume between the two countries is close to 200 billion U.S. dollars, which still has great potential for development.

Amorim said that Brazil is ready to communicate closely with China, plan cooperation in various fields, expand the scale of trade and investment, expand new fields such as artificial intelligence and the digital economy, and constantly enrich the connotation of Brazil-China comprehensive strategic partnership.

Noting that Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attaches great importance to poverty eradication, and China has made remarkable achievements in this regard, Amorim said the two sides can strengthen exchanges and cooperation.

Amorim said that Brazil and China share the same position on many major issues. Brazil supports Latin America and China in strengthening cooperation, and is willing to closely coordinate and cooperate with China on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, the G20 and BRICS to uphold multilateralism and oppose hegemonism.

The two sides exchanged in-depth views on the Ukraine crisis and jointly issued the "Common Understandings Between China and Brazil on Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis." The two sides agreed that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable way out of the crisis, and all parties should create conditions for the resumption of direct dialogue.

The two sides also expressed their support for an international peace conference recognized by Russia and Ukraine at an appropriate time, with the equal participation of all parties, and fair discussion of all peace proposals.

Members of the international community are welcome to support and endorse the common understandings, jointly provide a strong voice to cool the situation, and play a constructive role in promoting peace talks, said the document.

Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, holds talks with Celso Amorim, chief advisor to the President of Brazil, in Beijing, capital of China, May 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
BEIJING, May 23 (China Economic Net) - China stands as one of our top five global trading partners. Currently our trade is mostly in goods, yet we are fostering growth in service trade with China. The sheer size and diversity of the market and the fact that its population is moving up the income ladder are discernible advantages of this country, shared Mr. Joesph Keating, Trade Counsellor at the Embassy of Ireland in China, in an interview with China Economic Net (CEN), at a reception for foreign diplomatic missions, representative offices and international organizations.

2024 CIFTIS Reception attracts diplomatic envoys and representatives from more than 80 countries and international organizations across Asia, Africa, Europe, America and Oceania. [Photo/China Economic Net]

The reception was organized prior to the annual China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), the largest comprehensive global fair in the field of trade in services, scheduled for September 12th through 16th this year. Four months ahead of the grand autumnal event, nearly 50 countries and international organizations from France, Ireland, Japan, Australia and Mexico have affirmed their commitment to participate.

A land of opportunities

It is revealed that France, as the guest of honor of the Fair this year, will set up a national pavilion and hold a series of activities on sports, health care and investment.

The services market accounts for two-thirds of the global economy, so this opportunity is significant, said Pascal Gondrand, Commercial Investment Counselor of the French Embassy in China.

Time-honored French winery Champagne Cattier has signed up for the international fair for the first time.

We are full of expectations towards the Chinese wine market. Chinese wine consumers are becoming increasingly professional, and their consumption is getting diversified as wine-related training and the sommelier industry emerge. In the past few decades, winery owner Jean Jaques Cattier has come to China continuously. Having observed the changes here, he is very confident in the potential of the Chinese market and will increase investment, Gao Li, General Manager of Champagne Cattier China told CEN.

Participation in this international fair offers us an opportunity to gain more insights into the vast Chinese market, to display our brand, and to connect with market players, Gao said, adding that she is also working to integrate the cultures of wine and Chinese liqour.

In 2023, CITFIS attracted 28 of the top 30 countries or regions in service trade with over 500 Fortune 500 companies and industrial leaders.

Industries of the Future captivating players

Data from China's Ministry of Commerce indicates that in 2023, China's service trade volume reached a record high with the total imports and exports of services hitting RMB 6,575.43 billion, marking a 10% increase compared to the previous year.

This years CIFTIS is poised to emphasize international cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, digital economy and green development. Its becoming a stage for global organizations to debut the latest achievements in trade in services.

It is learned that World Meteorological Organization, as a new partner of CIFTIS, will set up a booth to display the application of intelligent meteorological and climate monitoring technologies around the globe.

The advances in AI are phenomenal here in China. It encourages other countries to develop and innovate more, Mr. Joesph Keating told CEN reporter, adding that Ireland, which has been participating the CIFTIS almost every year since 2015, will focus on ICT, computer services, and medical services this year.

The healthy competition here encourages other countries to try and develop more and innovate more, he said.


Jonathan Liebert is the CEO and Executive Director of the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado. He has a masters degree in counseling psychology, extensive experience in the mental health sector, and advocates for integrating mental health and wellness into the core of business operations. David Leinweber is the Owner of Anglers Covey, an At-Large Colorado Springs City Council Member who ran to elevate mental health in the community, and is the founder of The Morning Hatch Foundation, which helps programs that bring mental health care using the outdoors.
CCTV: The 77th World Health Assembly (WHA) will open on May 27. We learned that many countries have expressed support for Chinas position on Taiwan-related issues at the WHA. Whats Chinas comment?



Wang Wenbin: There is only one China in the world. Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory. The government of the Peoples Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Chinas position on the Taiwan regions participation in the activities of international organizations, including the WHO, is consistent and clear. It must be handled in accordance with the one-China principle. This is a fundamental principle reaffirmed in UNGA Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1.

For eight consecutive years from 2009 to 2016, China made special arrangement for the Taiwan regions participation in the WHA on the basis of the adherence of both sides of the Taiwan Strait to the one-China principle. After coming into power in 2016, the DPP has refused to recognize the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China principle, and has been hellbent on the separatist stance of Taiwan independence. As a result, the political foundation for the Taiwan region to participate in the WHA no longer exists. To uphold the one-China principle and the sanctity and authority of relevant UNGA and WHA resolutions, China has decided not to approve the Taiwan regions participation in this years WHA. This decision received extensive support and understanding from the international community. Over the past few weeks, the overwhelming majority of countries have reaffirmed to China their commitment to UNGA Resolution 2758, firm support for the one-China principle and opposition to Taiwans participation in the WHA. Over 100 countries wrote to the WHO Director-General or expressed via other means their support for Chinas position. It once again proves that the one-China principle is where global opinion trends and the arc of history bends, and shows that the vast majority of countries uphold the just position on Taiwan-related issues at the WHA. A just cause enjoys the support of many. The abiding commitment of the international community to the one-China principle is unshakable. The Taiwan independence separatist agenda will not succeed. Any attempt that runs contrary to the one-China principle or to play the Taiwan card and engage in political manipulation is bound to fail.

Reuters: Are you able to share with us whether Premier Li Qiang plans to hold a bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida when he is in Seoul?



Wang Wenbin: There was a similar question yesterday. You may refer to my answer.

Bloomberg: According to the Foreign Ministrys press release, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi met with Chief Advisor to the President of Brazil Celso Amorim yesterday in Beijing. During the talks, the two sides exchanged views on resolving the Ukraine crisis and reached some common understandings. The two sides also jointly stated in the press release that both countries support an international peace conference that is recognized by both Russia and Ukraine. Is this the first time for China to issue such a joint statement with other countries on the settlement of the Ukraine crisis and ceasefire? Does China plan to issue similar statements with other countries as well? Does it mean that China will not attend the peace conference in Switzerland next month?



Wang Wenbin: First of all, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi yesterday held talks with Chief Advisor to the President of Brazil Celso Amorim in Beijing. They had an in-depth exchange of views on the Ukraine crisis, and reached six common understandings, which are fully embodied in the Common Understandings Between China and Brazil on Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis jointly issued by the two sides.

These six common understandings reflect not just the joint position of China and Brazil, but also the widespread concern and genuine desire of the vast international community for promoting political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

The full-blown Ukraine crisis is now in its third year. The fighting has shown no sign of stopping and generated more spillovers. The conflict could further escalate. It is widely believed that the pressing priority is to cool down the situation and accumulate conditions for ceasefire.

Many developing countries, including China and Brazil, have called for upholding an objective and just position on the Ukraine crisis. All of us believe that dialogue and negotiation is the only viable way out of the crisis. All of us oppose fueling the flames, and hope to build up international consensus to find the most extensive common ground for restoring peace.

The common understandings, though jointly initiated by China and Brazil, are meant for the world. We welcome more countries, developing and developed countries alike, to support and endorse these common understandings, and jointly play a constructive role in deescalating the situation and promoting talks for peace.

On your specific questions, I would like to say that China and Brazil both represent major developing countries and emerging economies. Both are founding members of BRICS. China-Brazil relations have strategic and overall significance that goes beyond the bilateral scope. We share a similar stance on the Ukraine crisis and deep concerns over the protracted crisis. Both are committed to achieving an early political settlement to the crisis and opposed to certain countries bloc confrontation and fueling the crisis. These common understandings represent our two countries common stance on Ukraine and reflect both countries image as major responsible countries. The common understandings are a solution and contribution from China and Brazil for peace and we welcome more members of the international community to endorse them.

You also asked whether that means China will not attend the peace conference in Switzerland next month. The answer can be found in the six common understandings issued by China and Brazil. The second common understanding says the two sides believe that all parties should create conditions for the resumption of direct dialogue and push for the deescalation of the situation until the realization of a comprehensive ceasefire. China and Brazil support an international peace conference held at a proper time that is recognized by both Russia and Ukraine, with equal participation of all parties as well as fair discussion of all peace plans.

Beijing Daily: According to the World Economic Situations and Prospects Mid-Year Update released days ago by the UN Department for Economic and Social Affairs, Chinas economic growth is expected to be 4.8 percent, up by 0.1 percentage points compared with the prediction in January. Whats your comment?



Wang Wenbin: We noted the report. Many international financial institutions made positive assessment on Chinas economy, believing now is a good time to develop a portfolio in China and expressing the desire to continue to invest in China. UBS raised its rating on a Chinese mainland stock index and Hong Kong stocks to overweight.

This year, Chinas economy is off to a good start and positive factors continue to build in its economic performance. We have every confidence in hitting the targets set for this years growth.

China is a strong engine of the world economy. Chinas prosperity brings important opportunities for global prosperity. We remain committed to high-quality development and high-standard opening-up and will keep contributing our part to faster global recovery.

Hubei Media Group: We noted over 300,000 TEUs of freight were transported via the new western land-sea corridor train service so far this year. Can you share more about the latest development of the new western land-sea corridor train service and offer some comment?



Wang Wenbin: The new western land-sea corridor locates in Chinas western hinterland, connecting the silk road economic belt and the 21st century maritime silk road and supporting the high-standard opening up and the building of a new development paradigm in western China. In 2019, the Chinese government rolled out the master plan for the new western land-sea corridor. Over the past years, guided by the goal of building a whole chain, a vast platform and a new business model, the new western land-sea corridor has seen its multimodal transport booming and the logistic network hubs taking shape at a faster pace, bringing cargoes across mountains and waters and connecting the world with services. The corridor has become a vivid example of Chinas high-level opening up on a greater scale.

From a single train route to a whole network, the multimodal transport of the new western land-sea corridor now covers 72 cities in 18 provinces, regions and municipalities in China and carries cargo to 514 ports of 123 countries and regions worldwide. In 2023, the sea-rail combined transport carried 860,000 TEUs of goods, up by 14 percent year-on-year. High-quality agricultural products from Viet Nam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and other countries have been brought into the Chinese market and reached the tables of Chinese consumers. Chinas new energy products, new material products and electromechanical products have been transported overseas, giving a strong boost to the economic growth of ASEAN countries.

As General Secretary Xi Jinping noted, the development of the new western land-sea corridor is of great significance in the building of an opening-up paradigm that connects China and the world as well as the eastern and western regions of the nation. We noted that many provinces along the corridor are rolling out policy measures to make the new western land-sea corridor an open corridor for development of strategic importance with better connectivity both at home and beyond. With a thriving silk road on steel rail, we are confident that the new western land-sea corridor will continue to reach further, support bigger trade and bolster deeper industrial cooperation and become an international economic corridor with robust impetus.

AFP: The Philippines said today it has opened a coast guard post in the north of the country. They said its a response to what they call Chinas military buildup near Taiwan over the past two years. Whats your response to that?



Wang Wenbin: Im not familiar with what you said. We urge the Philippines to stay committed to the one-China principle and stay prudent when it comes to the Taiwan question.

Reuters: Boeing confirmed today that plane deliveries to China have been delayed due to the review from Chinese regulators. Could you please share more information about this review and Chinas position on the delivery of Boeing airplanes to Chinese customers?



Wang Wenbin: Id refer you to competent authorities on that.

AFP: A question on Guatemala. The Guatemalan Exporters Association said yesterday that China banned the entry of Guatemalas coffee and macadamia nuts. Is this true? If its true, whats the reasons for the ban?



Wang Wenbin: Theres no diplomatic relations between China and Guatemala. Ive not heard of what you said.

What I will say is that there is only one China in the world. The government of the Peoples Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory. The one-China principle is a universally recognized norm in international relations and a prevailing consensus among the international community. It is also the fundamental prerequisite for China to carry out cooperation with all countries including Guatemala.

President Bernardo Arevalo of Guatemala met with the Taiwan regions leader via video link this week and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala Carlos Ramiro Martinez went to Taiwan to attend the so-called inauguration ceremony on May 20. These moves trample on the one-China principle. We condemn those moves. Such situation is not conducive to the cooperation between Guatemala and China, including Guatemalas export to China. We hope relevant officials will recognize the trend of the world and proceed from the interests of the country and the people to make the right decision soon which serves its peoples interests.

Reuters: During his visit to Beijing last October, Kenyas President William Ruto asked China for USD one billion loan to complete road construction projects that have stalled in various places around the country, when the government encountered the liquidity challenges after the onset of the COVID pandemic. Kenyan government officials, including the Finance Minister, have since told Reuters the details of the loan were being worked on by both sides, but the funding has not been released. Can the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirm that China is in talks to Kenya over this loan and can it confirm the amount under negotiation? Which structural institution would provide the funding? And when will the loan be approved?



Wang Wenbin: In recent years, China and Kenya have engaged in extensive practical cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit. Projects such as the Mumbasa-Nairobi railway and the Nairobi Expressway linking the airport and the capital have greatly improved Kenyas infrastructure and received wide recognition from the Kenyan side. Our cooperation has become a good example of China-Africa Belt and Road cooperation. As for your question about the loan, Chinas financial institutions are in active consultation on specific matters with the Kenyan side. Both sides will do their level best to implement the common understanding reached by the two presidents, further expand and deepen practical cooperation in investment, financing and other fields so as to deliver more tangibly for the Kenyan people and further deepen and solidify our comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with Kenya.

AFP: Another question on the military drills around Taiwan. The USs high official yesterday strongly urged China to act with restraint. Whats your reaction to these US remarks?



Wang Wenbin: Taiwan is Chinas Taiwan. The US is in no position to point its fingers at China. The tensions in the Taiwan Strait are caused by the DPP authorities attempt to solicit US support for Taiwan independence and the attempt of some in the US to use Taiwan to contain China in the name of regional peace and stability. If the US truly wants to keep the Taiwan Strait peaceful and stable, it should unequivocally uphold the one-China principle and oppose Taiwan independence. China will never tolerate any attempt by anyone to provide an umbrella for Taiwan independence separatist activities under whatever pretexts. The world has spoken up for justice. Over the past few days, political leaders and people from various sectors in many countries have reaffirmed their commitment to the one-China principle and support for Chinas opposition to Taiwan independence separatist activities and the cause for national reunification. This once again demonstrates that the international communitys abiding commitment to the one-China principle is simply unshakable.

Attempts for Taiwan independence will lead nowhere. Anyone who connives at and supports Taiwan independence will get burned for playing with fire. Nothing will deter China from upholding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. We will do anything necessary to thwart any attempt for Taiwan independence.

Phoenix TV: Its reported that the second hearing on the case of Yuen Chung Biu, Office Manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London, and two other men charged by the UK police will begin later today at the UKs Central Criminal Court. Any comment on that?



Wang Wenbin: Over the past few weeks, the UK side has framed cases and charges to vilify China in the name of national security, and even arbitrarily arrested and prosecuted Chinese citizens in the UK and disrupted the normal functioning of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London. China deplores and opposes it. The UKs false accusations and egregious moves trample on the rule of law. This is an act of political manipulation using national security as a pretext. What the UK has done seriously violates the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens in the UK, harms China-UK relations, breaches the principles of international law and basic norms of international relations, and undermines the UKs own image. China strongly urges the UK to correct its wrongdoing at once, protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens in the UK and ensure normal functioning of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London. China will take firm measures to uphold the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens and institutions overseas.
Mason City High School's industrial arts wing collaborated with area manufacturing companies to establish a new welding program meant to help students prepare to go into the trade after graduation.

Industrial arts teacher Rick Patras says he started making plans for his introductory welding class in 2020, but put the operation on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Then, at the start of the 2023-2024 school year, he reached out to local manufacturing companies and began coordinating with Mason City School District administrators to bring the program to fruition. The class began at the beginning of the year.

Patras handpicked 12 students to test the program. He said he was looking for students who were teachable, hardworking, and trustworthy, and has been very happy with their performance.

"I can trust that they're doing their job. ... There's no one out there [supervising] them, and they're all working," Patras said. "They like doing it. They're taking charge of their duties. They know exactly what to do."

Iowa Mold Tooling (IMT) assisted in setting up the welding stations. According to Patras, an engineer from IMT assisted in designing the 12 welding stations and IMT built the framework for no cost.

The equipment and setup cost approximately $200,000 with some funding from grants and a small percentage coming from the school district as well as financial support from area industrial companies.

Principal Dan Long said that this kind of project based learning really helped the kids feel connected to their school and community. "It's a great way to get kids engaged. There's so much ownership and investment in this for the students," Long said.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 year, Patras said he intends to have at least four classes, and Long said that at least 70 students had expressed interest in the course.

"Stellar has offered their engineers and drafters to draw up what the kids want, and then they'll cut the metal for us, and the kids will make it. Whatever the kids want to design next year," Patras said.

Student Madison Fury, 16, said she enjoyed welding. "It's just fun to learn how to do all the types of welds," Fury said. Her classmate Eli Schultz, 16, agreed, calling welding "a satisfying process."

The class started out using torches the first week of their class. Patras said safety was always the top priority, and he that he planned to tailor the pace of the class to the needs of his students once it was open to the general high school.

Sophomore Eric Pals, 16, said that it was easy to see how their work had improved over the semester. "Welding will always be in demand, so it makes our class important," he said.

Area companies Curries, Stellar, and Sukup Manufacturing have joined IMT in sending engineers and trainers to attend the classes and help guide the process to make sure the students are aware of industry standards. Students have also gone on tours of several of the participating companies. Patras said their goal is to put people in a welding situation and help them get used to the environment.

"We're open for any possibility. NIACC ... military ... we have some kids that will go directly from here into the manufacturing field," Patras said. "It's just whatever they feel comfortable with. Whatever makes them happy."

"It's a win-win on both sides. Our hope, and I know our [manufacturing] partners feel the same, is that at some point this is going to help feed into that pipeline of a need that's right here in our community and in our region," Long said.
The Third Avenue splash pad off North Main Street is ready for children looking to get soaked and cool off in the heat.

City officials held a ribbon-cutting on the long-anticipated project on a sweltering Thursday morning.

A splash pad represents more than just a new facility, Mayor Alonzo Jones said at the event. Its a testament to our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Its a place where these beautiful children can play and have fun and their families can gather and their friends can meet in fostering a sense of community that is in the heart of our city.

The space will provide joy and refreshment during the summer months, Jones added.

Children and City Council members got drenched while trying out the splash pad.

The project was completed in March, with another splash pad at Doyle Thomas Park at Green Street expected to be finished next month. The Third Avenue project came at a cost of about $1.2 million to $1.4 million, said Danville Parks and Recreation Director Bill Sgrinia.

The project broke ground in December 2022 and construction began in early 2023, but delays postponed completion of the splash pad.

A third splash pad at Ballou Park is planned, as well, with construction expected to start soon. Officials hope to open it up in the summer of 2025.

PDC Inc., based in Greensboro, North Carolina, is the contractor for the project.

The 3,800-square-foot splash pad is made of concrete with an acrylic finish on top for a non-slip surface.

The pad boasts water features including water shooting up from the deck and water-sprayers, as well.

Other amenities at the site include a small playground, spaces around it for community use, picnic tables, a parking lot and restrooms.

The splash pad is free and open to the public. It is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

It will be open until around Labor Day, Sgrinia said.

Id like to extend my deepest gratitude to Danville Parks and Recreation staff, the Site Collaborative design team, and the dedicated community members who made this project possible, Sgrinia said in a prepared statement.

Third Avenue Park holds a special place in the citys history as one of the first parks and recreation centers established in Danville, Jones said during the ribbon-cutting. The original wading-splash pool, built in the 1960s for just $300, set the precedent for the splash pad Danville is now able to enjoy today, he said.

Danville Parks and Recreation has other upcoming park enhancements, including:

Westmoreland Park: A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at the end of June to celebrate its opening.

Riverfront Park: Expected to open by the end of this year, further expanding Danvilles green spaces.
On Wednesday 22 May 2024, the 12th edition of the Forum fir d'Zesummeliewen an eise Gemengen (Forum for living together in our municipalities, formerly Group for Exchange and Support on Integration at Local Level  GRESIL) was held at the Hall polyvalent in Dudelange.

Politicians, municipal representatives and staff and members of municipal advisory committees on intercultural living-together met to discuss the topic "Municipalities against racism! Promoting respect and tolerance at local level".

About 170 people took part, representing around 60 municipalities and 25 associations working to promote intercultural living together. The event was also attended by intercultural living together advisors and representatives from various ministries.

The meeting was opened by Max Hahn, Minister of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception of Refugees. Dan Biancalana, Mayor of the City of Dudelange, and Emile Eicher, President of Syvicol, welcomed the participants of the Forum fir d'Zesummeliewen. Caty Diop and Madeleine Yougye from the ASBL One People facilitated the meeting.

After the welcome, Sandrine Gashonga from the ASBL Letz Rise Up spoke about Luxembourg's colonial history as a tool in the fight against racism, while Camille Perret and Manuella Tiako Penda from the NGO Programmes d'aide et de developpement destines aux enfants du monde (PADEM) led an interactive quiz on stereotypes and the process of discrimination. Sabrina Castello and Myriam Abaied from the ASBL Ally Book Club then explained the concepts of cognitive bias and ethno-racial microaggressions, while giving a few good practices for identifying and combating them. Finally, Jessica Lopes from the Centre d'etude et de formation interculturelles et sociales (CEFIS) presented the results of the CEFIS and LISER study on racism and ethno-racial discrimination in Luxembourg.

During the second part of the Forum fir d'Zesummeliewen, participants had the opportunity to attend a round table discussion on anti-racist and anti-discriminatory actions implemented within municipalities. Sammy Wagner, Mayor of the municipality of Steinfort, Andreja Wirtz, Service egalite des chances of the City of Esch-sur-Alzette, and Cedric Czaika, Service ensemble quartiers Dudelange of the ASBL Inter-Actions for the City of Dudelange, presented examples of concrete action.

ASTI, Syvicol, CEFIS, the City of Dudelange and the Ministry of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception of Refugees, co-organisers of this event, would like to thank all those present for their active participation in this platform for exchange and encounter.

The Forum fir d'Zesummeliewen an eise Gemengen was set up in 2018 as GRESIL in response to the strong interest and need of Luxembourg's municipalities to network on issues relating to intercultural living together, providing municipalities with a platform for gathering, exchanging ideas, creating synergies, providing information, training and support on issues relating to intercultural living together at local level. The next meeting is scheduled for autumn 2024.

The documentation of this edition will be available shortly at www.gemengen.zesummeliewen.lu.

Press release by the Ministry of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception of Refugees / City of Dudelange / Association de soutien aux travailleurs immigres (ASTI) / Syndicat des villes et communes luxembourgeoises (Syvicol) / Centre d'etude et de formation interculturelles et sociales (CEFIS)
Ulviyya Shahin

Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida was invited to the summit to be held within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan.

During the visit of Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Elnur Mammadov to Japan, he informed the Japanese side about the activities of Azerbaijan within the framework of the Presidency of COP29.

Also, Mammadov presented Yoichi Fukazawa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan for Parliamentary Affairs, with the invitation letter addressed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida regarding the participation in the Summit of World Leaders on Climate Action, which will kick off COP29 on November 12-13 of this year.
Several events are planned this weekend and next week in observance of Memorial Day.

There will be a posting of flags in Helena for Memorial Day activities on May 27 (observed) and May 30 (traditional).

There will also be a posting of flags on veterans graves at Montana Veterans Division Cemetery at Fort Harrison on May 24 and in local cemeteries on May 25. Flags will be picked up on June 3.

Flags are provided by American Legion Post 2. This will be followed by a road cleanup on Custer Avenue. Volunteers are invited to meet Saturday at Lewis and Clark Post, 3095 Villard, at 9-10 a.m. for instructions and move to the Forestvale Cemetery at 10 a.m.

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 10010, East Helena will have their annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday.

The parade begins 11 a.m. on Main Street and proceeds to the park for a ceremony. Upon completion the parade will return to the post where lunch will be served.

The Traditional Memorial Day Ceremony will be conducted at the Montana Veterans Affairs Division, State of Montana Cemetery at historic Fort Harrison at 1 p.m. Thursday. The guest speaker is Brig. Gen. Renea Dorvall, assistant adjutant general-Army.

Dorvall also serves as commander of the Montana Army National Guard and is the first female soldier in the Montana Army National Guard to have that title.

The Lewis and Clark County Veterans Memorial Foundation will have a traditional Memorial Day ceremony 3 p.m. Thursday at the Lewis & Clark County Veterans Memorial in Memorial Park.

Gold Star families, veterans, their families and the public are encouraged to attend this 156th anniversary of Memorial Day, which honors veterans who died through their selfless service.

The Lewis and Clark County Veterans Memorial was dedicated on Aug. 15, 1949, by county residents to honor the sacrifice of those in the military.

In case of inclement weather, the observance will be moved to Lewis and Clark American Legion Post 2, 3095 Villard Ave.

The guest speaker is Lowell Long, a Montana veteran now serving as the state commander, Montana Department, The American Legion.

Long served in the U.S Marine Corps stateside and in Okinawa. Once discharged, he joined the Montana Army National Guard. He deployed in 2003-2004 with the Montana 639th Quartermaster Company as a logistician in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He retired in 2006.

Lowell served as a career high school teacher of special education in Harlem Elementary School. He recently retired from teaching.
Wisconsin's Lake Mendota continues to reveal its secrets.

And this one is the oldest of them all.

Archaeologists with the Wisconsin Historical Society announced Thursday they have identified up to nine more dugout canoes on the lake's bottom near Shorewood Hills.

The newest batch isn't as intact as the previous two canoes found in 2021 and 2022. But one fragment has been estimated through radiocarbon dating to be 4,500 years old. That would make it the oldest dugout canoe recorded in the Great Lakes Region, dating back to around 2500 BC.

The canoes that were found earlier were estimated to have been 1,200 and 3,000 years old respectively and built by ancestors of the Ho-Chunk Nation. The newest cache of canoes remain on the lake bottom in pieces and aren't planned for removal, but their discovery marks another historic event for the 9,781-acre lake and is more evidence that the site, now submerged by rising lake levels, was home for millennia to an encampment by Native people.

Meanwhile, analysis conducted by the USDA Forest Products Laboratory in Madison reveals that trees used to build the canoes  elm, ash, white oak, cottonwood and red oak  changed over the centuries, signaling "environmental shifts that impacted forest composition," the Historical Society said in its announcement.

It is an honor for our team to work alongside the Native Nations to document, research and share these incredible stories from history, said Amy Rosebrough, state archaeologist for the Historical Society. What we thought at first was an isolated discovery in Lake Mendota has evolved into a significant archaeological site with much to tell us about the people who lived and thrived in this area."

Some of the fragments were discovered when the 3,000-year-old canoe was pulled from the lake in 2022, while others were found on subsequent dives up to last fall, said Tamara Thomsen, a maritime archaeologist with the Historical Society and who is credited with finding the first two canoes. While follow-up diving expeditions suggested the presence of additional dugout canoes, archaeologists needed time to consult with tribal partners, analyze findings and document the potentially vulnerable site before publicly releasing details, the Historical Society said.

Archaeologists hypothesize that the canoes may have been intentionally cached in the water to prevent freezing and warping in the winter months and were later buried by natural forces over time. The Lake Mendota canoes are concentrated along roughly 800 feet of what was likely an ancient shoreline but which is now in more than 20 feet of water. Thomsen, who owns a dive shop on University Avenue in Madison, Wisconsin, and has lived for over 20 years in a home built by her grandfather on Lake Mendota's south shore, recovered a small sample from each canoe for carbon dating, wood type analysis and other research.

"Can you imagine the history that has floated by here? It's pretty amazing," Thomsen said as she looked across the lake from her pier toward the canoe site a half mile to the east. "It's a very pleasant place to be and to dive and we enjoy doing it, so I'll keep my eyes open. You never know what the next dive is going to bring."

When Thomsen discovered the second canoe in in May 2022, a fragment from another canoe was found nearby and is being referred to as "canoe three." But when "canoe two" was floated to the surface, another canoe was found underneath it and is being called "canoe four." Any wood nearby that appeared to be worked by hand was brought to the surface and joined canoe two in a trip to the State Archive Preservation Facility on Madison's Near East Side. That's where they were photographed, scanned and then placed in the same vat of purified water and UV sterilization as the 1,200-year-old canoe found in 2021.

It was unclear at the time if the fragments were from other canoes or were parts of canoe two or three, but testing revealed the pieces came from different canoes, Thomsen said.

"It's crazy. You just keep looking and there's more and more and more," Thomsen said. "And as we test them, they have a unique enough profile that they are different."

There's never been a systematic search via diving, but in late 2022 and early 2023, tribal historic preservation officers Bill Quackenbush of the Ho-Chunk Nation and Larry Plucinski of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa joined members of the Historical Society to walk the frozen lake with ground-penetrating radar looking for more potential evidence in the area where the first two canoes were found. The research continued last week when Quackenbush, who focuses on heritage preservation and specializes in GPR technology to research ancestral sites, lashed his own dugout canoe equipped with GPR to Thomsen's boat, which then pulled the canoe back and forth across the lake's surface above the site where the canoes had been found.

The analysis of that work has not yet been completed, but archaeologists have determined that the additional canoes are not physically intact enough to withstand recovery by divers and the process necessary to preserve the canoes.

We are excited to learn all we can from this site using the technology and tools available to us, and to continue to share the enduring stories and ingenuity of our ancestors," Quackenbush said.

The four oldest of the canoes date back to the Late Archaic period between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago when hunters and gatherers lived in seasonal communities. Three are made of elm and were estimated to have been built between 3,700 and 4,500 years ago while the other was the second canoe found in 2022. It was built from an ash tree about 3,000 years ago.

Two of the canoes  one made from cottonwood, the other from white oak  date to the Middle Woodland period from between 1,500 and 2,000 years ago when trade networks were being expanded and early long-term communities were being formed. Up to four canoes date to the Late Woodland period from about 900 to 1,500 years ago and were made of white oak. The most recently built canoe is from the Oneota period from about 800 years ago when permanent farming towns and smaller communities were the norm. It is the only canoe in the cache made of red oak.

While research continues at the Lake Mendota canoe site, the two recovered canoes remain in the Historical Societys archives facility where they are undergoing a preservation process that uses polyethylene glycol to stabilize the wood. The treatment began in February 2024 and is expected to conclude in 2026. Once the PEG application is complete, the canoes will be transported to Texas A&M University to undergo a freeze-drying process that leaves the canoes in a stable, solid structure suitable for public display. That's expected to be in 2027, when the Historical Society's new Wisconsin History Center opens on Capitol Square.

But for now, the largest lake in the Yahara River chain will continue to be studied.

We have a lot to learn from the Mendota canoe site," Plucinski said. "The research happening today allows us to better understand and share the stories of the people who lived here and had a thriving culture here since time immemorial."

Photos: Dugout canoe recovered from Lake Mendota after 1,200 years Dougout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe
DECATUR  Heart of Illinois Community Foundation and Earthmover Credit Union have issued $100,000 in grants in honor of Emergency Medical Services Week.

Recipients include:

 $25,000, Richland Community College, EMS/EMT program endowed scholarship;

 $24,000, Piatt County Sheriff Department, department equipment upgrades;

 $18,000, Decatur Fire Department, medical training mannequins;

 $6,000, Blue Mound Police Department, equipment needs;

 $5,000, Paris Police Department, Shop with a Cop and equipment needs;

 $5,000, Mt. Zion Fire Department;

 $4,000, Kirby Ambulance Service;

 $2,500, Paris Fire Department;

 $2,500, Argenta-Oreana Fire Department;

 $2,000 Bement Fire Protection District;

 $2,000, Blue Mound Fire Department;

 $2,000, Mid-Piatt Fire Protection District (White Heath, Mansfield, Monticello); and

 $2,000, Monticello Fire Department

This funding is part of the $1 million Moving Forward grant program established by the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation and Decatur Earthmover Credit Union. Funds will be used to acquire, repair, improve or upgrade emergency medical services systems or equipment, and for specialized training.

The Decatur Fire Department's medical training mannequins, for example, are weighted and programmed to react to treatment, allowing personnel to train for rescue and recovery under realistic conditions.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation and Decatur Earthmover Credit Union for their generous support in establishing the Moving Forward Scholarship for EMS/EMT students at Richland Community College, said Julie Melton of the Richland Community College Foundation. Your commitment to education is truly appreciated and will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students as they pursue their career goals.

Photos: Emergency crews train on air disaster readiness at Bloomington airport 061222-blm-loc-1training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-2training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-3training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-4training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-5training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-6training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-7training.JPG 061222-blm-loc-8training.jpg
A Sullivan County Sheriffs Office deputy and a man in custody were injured Wednesday evening as a result of an incident at Bristol Regional Medical Center.

At the request of Sullivan County District Attorney General Barry Staubus, agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are investigating the circumstances leading to an incident that occurred at Bristol Regional Medical Center.

The incident involved a deputy with the Sullivan County Sheriffs Office and a man the agency took into custody Tuesday night and subsequently transported to the hospital for evaluation, according to a statement from the TBI. Authorities have not identified the deputy or the man.

Preliminary information indicated that while the deputy was adjusting the mans restraints, he became physically combative, the TBI said.

The man then attempted to take the deputys firearm, resulting in a shot being fired while the weapon was still holstered, the TBI said.

No one was struck by the gunfire.

The man continued to be combative and grabbed the deputys baton, striking himself before being subdued and handcuffed, the TBI said. Shortly after the altercation ended, the man became unresponsive. He remained hospitalized on Thursday. The deputy was also injured during the incident.

The incident remained under investigation on Thursday.

Ballad Health officials said hospital staff and patients were alerted Wednesday about the incident. An active shooter incident was called, although Ballad said there was no active shooter on the premises.

A lockdown was enforced at the hospital to ensure the security of team members, patients and visitors. The lockdown was later lifted.

Ballad Health officials thanked the hospitals security department, Bristol Tennessee Police Department, Sullivan County Sheriffs Office and all team members at the hospital for their prompt actions and protection of everyone onsite.
ABINGDON, Va.  Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed three bills Thursday at Abingdon High School dealing with drug-related issues.

The bills include SB 726 to require local school boards to develop policies and procedures for opioid overdose prevention and treatment in schools.

The others were SB 614 to combat the manufacturing of Xylazine and SB 725 to rename the Drug Treatment Court Act to the Recovery Court Act, reflecting a broader focus on recovery rather than just treatment and initiating a more holistic approach to addressing substance abuse issues, according to a statement.

These bills were signed in front of more than 500 high school students and concluded with a school-wide training on life-saving naloxone.

These bills are a testament to our continued efforts to address addiction and overdose prevention by raising awareness and providing much-needed resources, Youngkin said. We will continue to follow every path, use every asset and employ every bit of our shared will to combat this epidemic. This my pledge to all Virginians.

Youngkins wife Suzanne, Attorney General Jason Miyares and area lawmakers also attended the event.

It is critically important to support Virginians battling substance use disorders every step of the way, said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. That includes taking preventive action, providing ample educational resources and changing the narrative to be more holistic, encouraging, and all-encompassing. I applaud the immense work being done by all legislators and leaders to support this most important mission.

While we gather today to commemorate putting ink on paper, the real impact of this bill signing will be reflected in the lives touched by this legislation, said Sen. Todd Pillion, R-Abingdon.

This crisis knows no bounds, which means we have an obligation to remain vigilant and creative in our policymaking to ensure our schools and communities are safe, families are educated, and that help is readily available, Pillion said. The Commonwealth has consistently demonstrated a bipartisan commitment to an all-hands-on-deck approach to combating this epidemic and that spirit is needed now more than eve.
Ulviyya Shahin

Heydar Aliyev International Airport strives to provide accessibility for passengers by offering various destinations and airlines for travel. With the start of the holiday season, about 30 countries and about 80 destinations (from tourist resorts to business capitals) will be even more accessible to passengers, Azernews reports.

During the summer months, Turkish cities remain one of the most popular destinations. From June, the frequency of flights to Antalya, Izmir, Trabzon, and Dalaman will be increased. Flights on these routes will be operated by AZAL, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and Ajet.

Gulf resort enthusiasts are offered more than 80 scheduled weekly flights to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Bahrain and Kuwait. The flights will be operated by the national carrier, "Wizz Air Abu Dhabi", "Air Arabia", "FlyDubai", "Gulf Air", "Kuwait Airlines" and "Jazeera Airlines". It will also be possible to travel to Sharm el-Sheikh 3 times a week from Baku airport through AZAL and Air Cairo Airlines.

The cities of Frankfurt, Tivat, Astana, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Ufa, Tyumen, Surgut, and Sochi are among the destinations where flight frequencies will increase.

In addition, regular flights from Baku to new destinations - Batumi, Bishkek, Bucharest, Sofia, Bodrum, Dalaman, and Muscat will be launched in June, providing passengers with more travel opportunities.

Detailed information about flight schedules can be obtained from the official website of the respective airlines.




ATLANTA, Ill.  A small town in Logan County, Illinois, will celebrate its newest tourist attraction in a big way this Memorial Day weekend.

Grand opening festivities at the American Giants Museum, which opened nearly a year ago at 100 SW Arch St. in Atlanta, Illinois, include the installation of a new Route 66-era statue  and another to come later this summer  along with food vendors and a visit by the museum's founder.

"People are so excited to have all of this information and all of these artifacts and all of these giants in one spot where they can visit them and learn about their history," said Bill Thomas, treasurer of the Atlanta Betterment Fund and director of the Logan County Economic Development Council. "We look forward to improving as we get more giants. It'll just get better and better."

The American Giants Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony taking place at 2 p.m. Sunday. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.

IF YOU GO What: American Giants Museum Where: 100 SW Arch St., Atlanta (corner of Vine and Arch streets) When: Grand opening this weekend from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Regular hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Admission: Free Website: americangiantsmuseum.com Phone: 217-650-7117

The museum showcases and shares the history of large fiberglass statues, called "Muffler Men," in a space that resembles a vintage Texaco service station. It is considered one of the largest collections of Muffler Men in one place along Historic Route 66.

The Muffler Men characters were made in the 1960s and '70s by International Fiberglass Co. in Venice, California. The giants varied in style, with some dressed as cowboys, Vikings, Native Americans and, more notably, as Paul Bunyan and the Texaco Big Friend.

While International Fiberglass Co. went out of business in 1976, the giants  which had been scattered across the length of Route 66 to help businesses garner attention and draw in customers  continue to attract tourists traveling along the historic highway.

"We've been open for a while, but the grand opening is kind of a public statement to say we're really here and we're really bringing more giants," said museum founder and president Joel Baker. "It was just a really cool idea to suddenly enable this little town to be one of the center points for Muffler Men and these giants."

A Big Friend and a Viking

On Friday, a 24-foot-tall Texaco Big Friend giant will be installed on the west side of the museum, along the 1926 alignment of historic Route 66. The giant is one of six remaining from the original 300 Texaco Big Friends produced by International Fiberglass Co., Baker said.

The Texaco Big Friends were part of a 1966 marketing program deployed by Texaco across the United States. The giant men served as roadside attractions and advertising for the company, but after a few incidents that involved the statues falling over, they became a liability issue and the company ordered them to be destroyed, Baker said.

Baker said the giant coming to the Illinois town this week was one of three or four that were placed in Nevada in 1966 or early 1967. This was right around the time when the Texaco Big Friend program was canceled, and Baker has reason to believe the incoming giant once stood along Las Vegas Boulevard.

In 1981, the giant was sold to a mobile home business in Pahrump, Nevada, Baker said. It was advertising for the business from 1989 until it closed in 2009, and in 2013, the property was liquidated.

At that time, Baker said, the giant was not seen as anything valuable, and it was taken to an area landfill. But when a local news outlet heard about the giant and did a story on it, the landfill received a large number of inquiries about the giant. The statue was donated to a local museum in March 2014, and Baker purchased it in 2016 and brought it to Illinois.

In addition to the Texaco Big Friend, an original Viking Carpet Giant will be installed later this summer on the east side of the museum. It will take up residence in an area named the "Route 66 Land of the Giants Rest Stop," where the "Half Wit" giant is already located.

The Viking was sourced from Chincoteague, Virginia, where it stood next to a carpet shop and had several owners before being left in an abandoned lot for years, Baker said. A father and son duo of giant enthusiasts from New Jersey acquired the Viking in the summer of 2023, and it has been fully restored.

'Dream come true'

The Texaco Big Friend and the Viking Carpet Giant will join the museum's collection of artifacts, photos, documents and giant fiberglass accessories, all telling the story of the giants. Several giant heads are suspended from the museum's ceiling, along with a 7-foot-long Esso Tiger; matching A&W Root Beer Mama Burger and Baby Burger statues; and a waving gas station attendant sign.

Baker said the Atlanta Betterment Fund serves as owner and operator of the museum, while he provided the historical information and owns the giants at the museum. The exception is the Viking Carpet King, which will be on loan from the family in New Jersey.

"It's like a dream come true to have a place where people can come and learn about these giants. The Muffler Men and these giants are my passion," said Baker. "It's come a long way; I never could have imagined all this when I started."

Thomas said the museum has added more panels with historical information, including one that gives background information on Baker. The museum has added a collection of smaller items associated with the giants, including postcards, small statuettes representing some of the giants, and original pieces of hardware, like large bolts used to install the giants.

Route 66 tourism

Thomas said visitors' response to the museum so far has been positive, with people visiting from all over the country and even internationally. Some have visited while traveling along Route 66, while others have come specifically to see the giants and learn more about them, he said.

The excitement surrounding the museum has even gotten Atlanta's Country Aire Restaurant interested in acquiring its own giant in the form of a Uniroyal Tire Girl, Thomas said.

"The impact on the local economy is positive, which is why we're doing all of these things associated with tourism," Thomas said. "We know two things: The more people you can get to come to your community and the longer you can have them stay in your community, the greater the chance that they spend money in your community."

Grand opening festivities on Sunday include lunch in Xenia Park from various restaurants, including local favorites like Chubby's Bar & Grill, Country Aire Restaurant and Missy's Sweet Shop, as well as food trucks like Phat Daddy's BBQ and Polen Grilling. The Atlanta Christian Church Mission Team will also be selling homemade baked goods.

Baker will lead a talk and Q&A session starting at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, and also will give remarks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Visitors are encouraged to check out Atlanta's other attractions, including the J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum, the Atlanta Coal Mining Company Historical Mine, the Atlanta Museum, the Atlanta Route 66 Construction Exhibit and local shops.

Atlanta Tourism Director Scott McCoy said the American Giants Museum is not in many travel guides yet, so he hasn't seen a lot of travelers coming to town specifically for the museum  but they are coming because of Route 66 and the draw in tourism it creates.

McCoy said he is excited for word to get out about the museum and Atlanta so that more people will visit their town. And with Route 66 celebrating its 100th anniversary he 2026, he may get that wish.

"People are going to stop at little Atlanta, and the museum is part of that draw. It just adds more to it, " McCoy said. "All of that is what's going to be good for Atlanta, because we'll get more of these people traveling Route 66, and others who (are) interested in the giants to plan a trip and stop in Atlanta."

For more information about the museum and the grand opening this weekend, visit americangiantsmuseum.com

Photos and video: J.B. Hawes Grain Elevator in Atlanta Watch now: Julianna Nordman talks about J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator in Atlanta Watch now: Julianna Nordman talks about tourism in Atlanta 082122-blm-loc-hawes1 082122-blm-loc-hawes7 082122-blm-loc-hawes3 082122-blm-loc-hawes4 082122-blm-loc-hawes2 082122-blm-loc-hawes5 Hawes Grain Elevator 7 080822.JPG 082122-blm-loc-hawes6 Hawes Grain Elevator 9 080822.JPG
Telecom Egypt has teamed up with Huawei Cloud to launch what they call Huaweis first locally-based public cloud platform in Egypt and Northern Africa.

Huawei Cloud is a cloud service provider based in China. The company provides cloud computing platforms and APIs to individuals, companies, and governments, on a metered pay-as-you-go basis.

The companies say the launch aligns with Telecom Egypts strategy to position Egypt as the premium regional digital hub in Africa.

The launch will also promote the development of cloud computing and digital services.

Hosting Huawei Cloud in Telecom Egypts data centres will extend to more than 60 countries around the globe, capitalising on more than 14 submarine cable systems, which are set to increase to 18 cable systems by 2025.

Beyond hosting, Telecom Egypt is integrating its extensive networks and expertise to integrate Huawei Cloud solutions with its existing infrastructure.

Additionally, launching the cloud is expected to generate job opportunities in Egypt countries in North, West, and Central Africa.

"The introduction of Huawei Cloud in Egypt signifies a remarkable shift, as it strives to establish a strong basis for industry digitalisation, enabling numerous sectors to benefit from advanced intelligent engines, said Huawei Egypt CEO Jim Liu.
GUEST OPINION: Its no secret that industry sectors like financial services, telcos, and healthcare continued to dominate headlines in the past twelve months, but not always for the right reasons. In fact, managing operational risk within continues to be significantly challenging due to several factors including accelerated digital transformation, increased cyber threats, explosion of data volumes, and adoption of generative AI.

As businesses expand their operations, adopt new technologies, and navigate shifting regulatory environments, they are exposed to a wider array of operational risks. Up until now, many companies have treated compliance, especially regulatory compliance as a checkbox exercise, not necessarily increasing the foundational framework of their security.

According to the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), the finance services sector was one of the top reporters of data breaches in 2023, representing 10% of all data breach notifications. Not only that, IBMs Cost of a Data Breach Report also found that the average cost of a single data breach within Australia was US$2.7 million. Not to mention the incalculable cost in terms of eroding the organisations reputation and goodwill with their customers. It's therefore not surprising that industry regulators are taking steps to reduce risk exposure.

The impact of changing consumer demands on data management

These regulatory changes also coincide with increasing consumer demands and expectations. From a consumer perspective, there is much greater awareness and demand around both mobility of service and security of data. Recent high-profile data breaches have also made security more top of mind than ever before.

One such breach was with a major telco in Australia at the end of 2022. The breach impacted ten million people, a third of the population, with information stolen by the hackers including names, birthdates, home addresses, phone numbers, email contacts, and passport and driver's licence numbers. The breach even led to the company agreeing to pay for replacements of compromised passports.

Rising consumer data literacy, and their resulting perception of data management, are becoming a key point of difference in consumers' minds when choosing who to trust with their financial assets. At a minimum, consumers expect that their data is private and secure  a basic expectation that unfortunately is not always upheld.

Understanding what best practice looks like in a changing regulatory landscape

We are often asked to advise on what best practice looks like as organisations start taking the steps required to future-proof their risk and compliance strategies. While each organisation has its own set of challenges to factor in, there are three key areas of common ground to consider.

Cohesiveness between compliance and risk vs security - the security team will set mandates around the organisations risk appetite and put prevention, detection, and response policies in place; but the ones who actually implement the policies are the IT teama separate team altogetherso, there is this division of responsibility and collaboration between groups is essential.

- the security team will set mandates around the organisations risk appetite and put prevention, detection, and response policies in place; but the ones who actually implement the policies are the IT teama separate team altogetherso, there is this division of responsibility and collaboration between groups is essential. Data sovereignty considerations - from a security perspective this means considering where does your data live? Is it running in the service provider's environment, or is it running in yours? How much control do you have over the data? Can you lock the service provider out of it if needed?

- from a security perspective this means considering where does your data live? Is it running in the service provider's environment, or is it running in yours? How much control do you have over the data? Can you lock the service provider out of it if needed? Avoid vendor lock-in  operational risks arent just breaches of data because of financial crime; they can also be risks related to escalating costs associated with technology disruptions where critical data becomes inaccessible.

Choosing the right technology partners improves operational resilience

There is much to consider when thinking about who to trust with your data. Strong data management can spell the difference between success and failure. As highlighted in a recent Forrester report, choosing the right managed services partner can help organisations save significantly on reducing risk events. Furthermore, having the ability to scale up existing in-house skillsets is also a key consideration as talent pools remain stretched.

It is important to look for partners that offer flexibility in terms of data storage but also understand and adhere to operational compliance in line with industry regulations.

We are working with Revenir, a London-based fintech that automates tax recovery through partnerships with banks, governments and digital receipt companies. As a company in the financial sector, it was crucial that CTO, Brian Wagner, was able to balance data management with cybersecurity and remaining compliant with national and international regulations. With our open-source data platform, we were able to help Revenir balance these needs while also giving them access to a collaborative community that was continually seeking and developing innovative solutions to these challenges.

An open source, multi-cloud data platform also contends with other challenges of our modern, data-heavy world with smart solutions that directly alleviate pain points. This includes cross cloud deployments - mentioned above, cross-cluster migration and replication, and the ability to leverage open source.

In summary, when selecting your technology partner, ensure that they can:

Provide automatic updates to ensure your software remains up-to-date

Offer non-vendor specific technologies so you can use what makes the most sense to your organisation

Ensure data management is simplified, adheres to sovereignty laws, and is secure

Provide around-the-clock support that isnt region-specific

Reduce downtime through integration of services

Deliver flexibility of data storage to maintain compliance

The devil is in the details. Closing the gap to achieving compliancy

Taking the required steps to address any gaps in your current data management strategies to ensure compliance doesnt have to be daunting or create more pressure for over stretched employees.

Outsourcing is definitely part of the solution, but remember you need to be ruthless in terms of prioritisation. There needs to be a clear roadmap, so you know where their gaps are and then drive to close those gaps. This is especially challenging for smaller organisations that may not have the security teams or the knowledge in house. However, its ultimately up to each organisation to manage their security and compliance risks. Even when outsourcing, you need to ensure that the service provider is doing their job properly. Outsourcing can help, but its not the complete solution.

Companies need to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their security. Now is the time to take action while also ensuring you have the right technology partner, who understands your compliance needs, for the journey ahead.
(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

At Okado, diners can take the phrase from farm to table up a notch by enjoying a fresh meal inside a hundred-year-old farmhouse.

Okado sits on the Tonami Plain of Toyama Prefecture surrounded by large trees and the snow-capped Tateyama Mountain Range in the distance.

The large wooden farmhouse has wide glass windows, allowing diners sweeping views of the pastoral landscape while they enjoy delicious meals made with local produce.

I ordered koi-akane, the restaurants signature lunch set for 2,900 yen ($20). Though my perception of what a local farm meal was something similar to what a grandma might serve at home, what I received was not what I expected.

The large lunch set was a gorgeous sight of tri-colored kuzukiri starch noodles, yubesu ginger-flavored egg jelly, yogoshi miso-dipped vegetables, maruyama deep-fried bean cured, tempura vegetables and somen noodles. The volume of dishes would easily be comparable to a full-course French dinner, but healthier!

The delicate flavors of the dishes are something I wont soon forget. My favorite, however, was the Okado somen noodles. According to the server, the noodles have a unique shape called mage, meaning married womans coiffure, and have been handmade in the Tonami area for over 160 years. What makes these noodles special is the use of water from the Sho River and cold-wind drying for 10 days. The traditional method gives the Okado somen an extremely refreshing, chewy texture.

The somen noodles come served in a cold soy-sauce based broth with ground ginger and steamed fish paste. The flavors paired well with the chewy noodles and were a taste of the surrounding landscape and its severe weather which make the noodles possible.

Dining at Okado gives a great chance to enjoy time-tested local delicacies in a unique pastoral environment with a celestial landscape. Dont miss dropping by Okado when you explore the Hokuriku region.

Farm Restaurant Okado Location: 165 Okado, Tonami City, Toyama Prefecture Hours: 11 a.m.  2 p.m., 5  10 p.m. URL Tel: 076-333-0088
(Sen on the red bridge (Photo: Studio Ghibli))

If you're a fan of Spirited Away, the masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, you might find this interesting! Explore the breathtaking beauty of Spirited Away locations, from its iconic red bridge and magnificent hot springs to its thrilling adventures.

1. Traditional Hot Springs in Gunma and Tochigi

The journey began at the red bridge that links Chihiro to the alternate world. SekizenKan, located in Shima Onsen, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, features a red bridge that closely resembles the iconic one from the film. Envision yourself as the protagonist of a movie, walking across a vibrant red bridge!

Kinugawa Onsen in Tochigi Prefecture is home to a beautiful hot spring that may seem familiar to the movie. The central area of this hot spring appears to have a similar style to where Sen worked in the movie. Let's explore every floor of the grand hot spring! There may be Kami (Shinto Gods) bathing somewhere.

2. Restaurants near Yurakucho station in Tokyo

Do you remember the street that Chihiro's parents couldn't pass in the movie? A street near Yurakucho Station in Tokyo is lit up with colorful lights, showcasing a variety of eye-catching restaurants. Delicious food is something you definitely won't want to miss out on!

3. Edo-Tokyo Architectural Museum in Tokyo

Have you heard about the inspiration behind Kamaji's boiler room in the movie? It was actually inspired by a stationary store in Japan's Edo period (1603-1868). The Edo-Tokyo Architectural Museum showcases old buildings from that era, and one of them is Takei Sanshodo - a stationary store with a wall full of wooden drawers. It is said that Hayao Miyazaki drew inspiration from this store to create the unique look of Kamaji's boiler room.

The boiler room is not the only inspiration from the Edo period. The House of Korekiyo Takahashi at the Edo-Tokyo Architectural Museum looks just like Sen (Chihiro) and Lins dormitory. The building can remind us of Sen and Lin enjoying steamed buns while gazing out the lattice-patterned window.

Do you recall the yellow train that ran across the coastal tracks in the movie? A train like the one that Kaonashi and Sen rode to Zeniba's cottage is also on display at the Tokyo Museum of Architecture.

4. JR Shimonada Station in Ehime

Towards the end of the movie, Sen and Kaonashi arrive on the yellow train at a train station by the blue sea. JR Shimonada station, located in Ehime Prefecture, offers a picturesque view similar to the one in the movie. Imagine taking a walk like Sen and Kaonashi at a beautiful train station overlooking the vast sea!

5. Sado Island & Tarai-bune Boat in Niigata

You might have wondered what kind of boat this is. The boat in the movie is a unique boat called "Tarai-Bune" and can still be found in Ogi town on Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture. These boats are exclusive to Japan and offer a one-of-a-kind experience. The tarai-bune were tub boats used for navigating around the cliffs for seaweed and abalone harvesting. In contemporary times, they are primarily used to entertain tourists.
Ulviyya Shahin

The Summit of World Leaders on Climate Action will be held in Baku.

Azernews reports that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan released information about this.

The summit will take place on November 12-13 this year.

It should be noted that the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) will be started with the Summit of World Leaders on Climate Action.

Against this backdrop, Azerbaijan emerges as a beacon of environmental stewardship, spearheading initiatives to harness renewable energy sources and transition towards a cleaner, greener future. With ambitious targets to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and 40% by 2050 compared to 1990 levels, Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29 signifies a pivotal milestone in its trajectory towards a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive green economy.

In essence, COP29 not only symbolises Azerbaijan's commitment to global climate action but also embodies a testament to the nation's unwavering dedication to shaping a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable world for generations to come.
Q: I saw a billboard on U.S. 52 that welcomed Julie to the Queen City. The Queen City is Charlotte, so why is a billboard in Winston-Salem welcoming Julie to Charlotte? Also, whos Julie? B.Y.F.

Answer: The same billboard is also on South Stratford Road.

Julie is Julie Johnson, according to Tim Pollock, sales manager for Adams Outdoor Advertising, which owns the billboards. Johnson is the new general manager for Adams in Winston-Salem and Charlotte.

Adams has offices in seven states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Currently, its North Carolina markets are Winston-Salem and Charlotte.

Pollock said that they dont always welcome employees this way.

Weve highlighted employees on billboards in the past but its certainly not a regular thing, he said.

Q: Is Winston-Salem also going to go to four-way flashing for malfunctioning traffic signals?

M.B.

Answer: Yes, said Alex Stone, a transportation engineer for the city of Winston-Salem.

When signals malfunction in Winston-Salem, the lights will flash red in all directions after the upgrades are made.

The N.C. Department of Transportation announced last week that it would be changing the flash pattern on malfunctioning traffic signals. Currently, signals are flashing red lights for one street of the intersection and flashing yellow lights for the other street.

The City of Winston-Salem will also move towards flashing red on all approaches at intersections whenever there is a problem, such as an equipment failure or a perceived error, that disrupts their normal operation.

He said that the city is making the changes to conform with NCDOT standards.

Drivers should treat this kind of flashing mode like a conventional all-way stop. These changes will be completed prior to June 2025, Stone said.

Scam warning

Mike Causey, the North Carolina insurance commissioner, issued a warning Wednesday to state residents that scammers are going door to door posing as N.C. Department of Insurance agents and are trying to sell fake insurance policies to residents.

The NCDOI is the state government agency that regulates insurance companies doing business in North Carolina. It does not sell insurance.

If anyone approaches or calls you stating they are selling insurance and are with the North Carolina Department of Insurance, this is obviously a scam, Causey said. This includes Medicare as well.

These impersonators are trying to scare or intimidate consumers into purchasing fraudulent insurance. Our Criminal Investigations Division will work with other partnership law enforcement agencies to pursue and root out this type of activity by seeking maximum charges.

You can report someone claiming to be from the NCDOI by calling 919-807-6840 or 888-680-7684.

Shredding events

Fries Moravian Church, 251 N. Hawthorne Road, Winston-Salem, will have a shredding event from 9 a.m. to noon June 1. The cost is $5 per grocery bag or equivalent size box. Paper only, no metal, plastic, photographs, CDs, floppy discs, cardboard, binders, or notebooks. Proceeds will benefit youth summer camp at Laurel Ridge.

If your group is planning a shredding event and you want to be included on the list, you can email the information to asksam@wsjournal.com or mail it to Ask SAM, 418 N. Marshall St., #100, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. Greensboro and Guilford County groups are also invited to send in their shredding events.

Yadkin County Chamber, 205 S. Jackson St., Yadkinville, will have a free shredding event from 9 a.m. to noon June 15 at the chamber office. The limit is two boxes. Nonperishable items or cash donations will be accepted for Yadkin Christian Ministries.

Bethel Methodist Church, 2170 Bethel Methodist Church Lane, Winston-Salem, will have a shredding event from 9 a.m. to noon June 15 in the church parking lot. The cost is $5 per box or grocery bag.
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Around a Gas Station and The Blue Roofed House stand on the sidewalk at the southwest corner of 11th and G streets, the brightly colored ceramic pipes towering over passersby.

Created by artist Patrick Siler, the massive 7-foot-tall pipes are the latest addition to the citys acclaimed outdoor art collection, acquired through the efforts of Public Art Lincoln.

Unlike most large-scale public art, primarily sculpture, Silers pipes demand up-close viewing, making their placement on the sidewalk the perfect position.

Thats because the pipes are covered with what are in essence narrative paintings on the ceramic that wrap around the circular structure.

These pipes are kind of like marrying ceramics and painting, Siler said. I tried at other times to do paintings, multicolor images on a pot, on a plate. When I discovered this commercial underglaze at the factory, it enabled me to do a large-scale painting on a big piece of clay, trying to marry the very disparate media.

That marriage of the two art forms is rooted in Silers early 60s graduate studies at the University of California-Berkeley, where he was studying painting but also took courses from Peter Voulkos, who encouraged him to paint his clay pieces.

At Berkeley and at Washington State, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree, Siler studied abstract expressionist painting. But, after receiving his Master of Arts in 1963, he, like many of his classmates, drifted away from pure abstraction and began incorporating figurative elements in his work.

Just out of your day-to-day life, you encounter all kinds of visual images and maybe audio images from a song you hear. You transpose that into visual images and pretty soon, youre doing a drawing or a painting, Siler said. Thats kind of the source of images you see on these pipes.

The scenes on the pipes depict everyday life in Pullman, Washington, where Siler has lived for 50 years.

But, he said, hes never tried to develop a single theme, or what he called a gimmick in his artwork. He figured that out when he took some of his early post-graduate paintings to Chicago, where a gallerist told him that, while he liked the work, it lacked a central theme that would make it commercial.

I just didnt want to do that, Siler said. Im not devising a product to put on the market. Its intellectual and expression exploration. You know, it could easily go from one thing to the next based on various stimuli Im getting from my own environment. So thats why I didnt have a gimmick and just paint one thing. I wasnt manufacturing a product for the market.

Siler, who taught ceramics and foundation drawing at Washington State from 1973 to 2005, has, in his 60-year career, created far more than pipes.

Some of his large ceramic walls, paintings and drawings are in the permanent collections of the Jun Kaneko Center for Creativity and The Bemis Center for Contemporary Art, both in Omaha, and at the Seattle Art Museum, the American Craft Museum, the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington D.C., and at the American Museum of Ceramic Art.

The aforementioned factory where he creates the pipes is Mission Clay Products, an industrial pipe maker where Siler goes to work, usually in winter, from his Pullman, Washington home.

But the work on the pipes begins in Pullman, long before he makes the trip to the Arizona factory.

When Im doing one of these pipes, I get myself really prepared because I have a limited time down there, say a month, he said. It takes a few days to go down there and generate this painting in the round on a big pipe.

I draw out the pipe painting beforehand. I draw it out, and if theres a thing for a particular figure that I want to develop, I get all the kinks worked out. I do studies of that, and then I do a composition drawing of the whole thing.

So when I get down there, I know what Im gonna do. If I want to make a change at that time, no problem, because Ive got a fundamental structure where Im gonna be putting something down, adding something or taking something away.

Siler paints on the pipes by reproducing the preparatory drawings using charcoal to make heavy black lines on the white underglaze. He then fills in the shapes between the lines with brightly colored glazes; a process, he said, that is not all that different from working with shape, line and color in abstract painting.

Once fired, the massive pipes are shipped out of Phoenix to the new homes or to Silers studio.

The pipes that made their way to 11th and G are on loan to the City of LIncoln from Siler and his wife Elizabeth for the next five years.

Public Art Lincoln, the advisory board that works with the city to develop a public art collection of national prominence, will be fundraising to purchase the two artworks so they can be a permanent addition to the citys public art collection.
Nazrin Abdul

Deputy Minister of Energy and Chief Executive Director of COP29, Elnur Soltanov, expressed his opinion that "Armenia's decision to hold the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Azerbaijan was a very good sign," Azernews reports.

Speaking at the COP29 presentation ceremony in Lachin, attended by members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan, including military attaches, E. Soltanov noted that the decision to host COP29 in Azerbaijan was made possible with the support of the entire international community.

"It is a very responsible task to lead the most important negotiations on climate change and the climate crisis in the world as the host of COP29. We need to take measures to fight the global climate crisis. But for this, we need implementation tools. The main implementation tool is finance. Thus, we must come up with an ambitious action agenda, and we have started work on this path. In this way, we will inspire and revive the world community."

The Deputy Minister said that Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur have been declared "green energy zones".

"Thus, Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur become a testing ground for Azerbaijan's "green" technology and "green energy". So, the importance of this region coincides with the great task we have undertaken. Because Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur are the best for the "green" world. "This is the place where we are testing the technologies. If it is successful, we will apply it in other regions of Azerbaijan. We will produce more "green energy" than is consumed in this region, and in a certain sense it will be exported to other regions of Azerbaijan."
1. Yes. They look better and require less maintenance. Most high-end housing areas have them.

2. Yes. Wood fences can weather and look unsightly, plus masonry walls help to block sound.

3. No. Residents should have a choice of what kind of barriers are put up near their homes.

4. No. Allowing a variety of materials will be better for aesthetics, and costs may be lower.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say. Masonry walls may be sturdier, but mandating them is problematic.

Vote

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By Azernews

Ulviyya Shahin

In a significant step towards strengthening regional connectivity, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon have discussed potential collaboration in the transport sector. The discussion, held during an expanded meeting between the two leaders, focused on leveraging the evolving transport and logistical infrastructure in both countries to enhance regional connectivity.

Azerbaijani President lham Aliyev underscored the importance of uniting efforts and closely coordinating actions to capitalize on new opportunities within the sector.

"I think it will be useful to join our efforts in this direction and coordinate our steps more closely," he stated, highlighting the mutual benefits of a cooperative approach.

A key topic of discussion was the Trans-Caspian transport corridor, which is gaining traction as a pivotal route in the European and Central Asian regions. President Ilham Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan's strategic role in this corridor, given its geographical position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

"The Trans-Caspian transport corridor is becoming increasingly popular in the European and Central Asian regions. Azerbaijan, as a connecting link and a country located at the junction of Europe and Asia, of course, plays an important role in this issue with its transportation infrastructure," he remarked.

The Trans-Caspian transport corridor, also known as the Middle Corridor, is a critical component of the broader efforts to establish efficient and reliable trade routes connecting East and West. This corridor traverses Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus, and onwards to Europe, facilitating the movement of goods and fostering economic ties between the regions.

Azerbaijan's robust transportation infrastructure, which includes modernized railways, ports, and highways, positions it as a key player in the success of this corridor. The country has invested significantly in upgrading its transport facilities to meet international standards, ensuring seamless transit and boosting trade volume.

The discussion between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon signals a promising step towards deeper bilateral cooperation in the transport sector. By aligning their strategies and integrating their transport infrastructures, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan can enhance connectivity, reduce transit times, and create new economic opportunities for their nations and the broader region.

The meeting between the leaders of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan underscores the vital role of transport cooperation in regional development. As the Trans-Caspian transport corridor continues to gain prominence, the collaborative efforts of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan will be instrumental in shaping a more connected and economically vibrant future for the region.

Commenting on the discussion of the country's presidents, member of Committee for Economic Policy, Industries and Enterprising of Milli Majlis,Vugar Bayramov told Azernews that there is a strengthening of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries in the field of transport and logistics.

"As a result of this cooperation, it facilitates an increase in the volume of cargo transported through Central Asia and Azerbaijan. Of course, one of the countries Azerbaijan is interested in cooperating with is Tajikistan. Expanding relations with Tajikistan and utilizing the existing potential in this direction are among the priority issues. One of the topics discussed during the recent visit of the President of Tajikistan was precisely related to transport and logistics."

According to him, the discussion involves both expanding the Middle Corridor and making closer use of the potential of other transport corridors.

"Over the past year, the volume of cargo transported via the Middle Corridor has increased by more than 30 percent, which practically means an increase in the significance of the Middle Corridor. On the other hand, Central Asian countries intend to export more products to Europe via the Trans-Caspian route, including through Azerbaijan. This is particularly significant considering that currently, not only traditional products but also green energy exports from Central Asia to Europe via Azerbaijan are being discussed. Of course, this practically creates new opportunities for expanding relations between Central Asia and Azerbaijan in this field as well."

"In this regard, the opportunities are quite extensive, and this will further strengthen overall cooperation between the parties, ultimately enabling more cargo to be delivered to Europe via Central Asia. Azerbaijan, as a transit country, is keenly interested in expanding this cooperation," MP concluded.
On 23 May US Presidentgave a joint press conference with Kenyas Presidentin Washington in which he reaffirmed US support for Kenyas plan to deploy 1,000 police as part of the multinational security support (MSS) mission to Haiti.

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On 23 May the International Court of Justice (ICJ) denied Mexicos request for emergency measures to protect its embassy in Ecuador, after Ecuadorean security forces forced entry into its embassy in Quito at the beginning of April.

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Japan is undergoing its biggest military build-up since World War II. But it is struggling to fill its ranks with women.

The Japanese military has faced a series of sexual harassment cases in recent years. The number of women who signed up to join the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) decreased by 12 percent in the year that ended in March 2023. The drop followed several years of notable growth.

Some victims of harassment have said the culture within the military may prevent women from signing up.

It has been nine months since the defense ministry promised to take serious measures. But it still has no plans to create a national system for reviewing anti-harassment training standards. The information comes from two defense ministry officials responsible for training.

An independent group of experts had recommended that the defense ministry create such a system. The government-appointed group identified in a report published in August that the military provided poor harassment education. The training made only limited mention of sexual harassment. There was also a lack of oversight of such training.

One servicewoman is taking legal action against the government over an alleged sexual harassment incident. She said in an interview that the education she received over the past 10 years was ineffective.

Women make up just 9 percent of military service members in Japan. In the United States, by comparison, 17 percent of military service members are women.

The defense ministry told Reuters reporters that it has held harassment prevention talks by outside experts since 2023. It did not respond to questions about whether it would take the independent groups recommendation to provide oversight of training.

Rina Gonoi is a former solider. She went public with allegations of sexual abuse in 2022. After she came forward, the defense ministry found more than 170 alleged sexual harassment incidents in the SDF.

Another alleged victim was an Okinawa-based servicewoman. She accused a senior official of making sexual comments toward her in 2013. She was then publicly named in harassment training materials given to her colleagues in 2014, she told Reuters. The person who allegedly made the sexual comments, however, was not identified in the materials.

Reuters does not name alleged victims of sexual harassment. Her allegations were supported by documents in the legal action she filed last year.

Ineffective training

The defense ministry offers yearly online training on general harassment. It also provides training materials to officers for in-person sessions. But it does not follow how or when the officers carry out harassment training, the two defense officials said.

In April, Reuters attended a harassment prevention course given to over 100 mid-ranking military officers at a base outside Tokyo.

Instructor Keiko Yoshimoto presented harassment as a communication problem. She centered discussions on generational differences.

"Generational differences make it hard for people to communicate," she said. She added that military service people must understand the basics of communication before they can fully understand sexual harassment.

Gonoi and the Okinawa-based servicewoman have criticized the system as ineffective.

"People would say 'everyone put up with that kind of behavior, it was normal back in our time,'  but these issues are being passed down to my generation because nothing was done to stop it," the servicewoman told Reuters in March.

Fear of complaints

The defense ministry officials said that training on sexual harassment mostly takes place within a larger anti-harassment course. At the two-hour training session that Reuters attended, about two minutes were related to sexual harassment.

The defense ministry officials said it was difficult to give standardized training on harassment. That is because service members in high-stress environments may give orders in a direct way that is unusual in other environments, they said.

The two officers said there were concerns within the military that too much attention on harassment could create operational issues. One officer suggested it might lead to unfair complaints.

Im Dan Novak

Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by Reuters.

_________________________________________________

Words in This Story

review  v. an act of carefully looking at or examining the quality or condition of something or someone

standard  n. a level of quality, achievement, etc., that is considered acceptable or desirable

oversight  n. the act or job of directing work that is being done

alleged  adj. accused of having done something wrong or illegal but not yet proven guilty

interview  n. a meeting at which people talk to each other in order to ask questions and get information

respond  v. to say or write something as an answer to a question or request
Memorial Day is an American holiday that honors the memory of people who died while serving in the U.S. military. This year, it will be celebrated on Monday, May 27th.

You might read or hear about Memorial Day ceremonies in the United States. The American president, for example, often gives a speech.

In todays Everyday Grammar, we will explore the connection between Memorial Day, grammar, and speeches.

It might sound strange to you, but ceremonies can teach you a lot about the English language  particularly verbs and adjectives.

Simple verbs, the present, and time

Lets start our report with part of a speech given by former President Ronald Reagan in 1984.

Reagan uses terms such as recall, which means to remember, and words such as valor, meaning bravery or courage.

My fellow Americans: Memorial Day is a day of ceremonies and speeches. Throughout America today, we honor the dead of our wars. We recall their valor and their sacrifices. We remember they gave their lives so that others might live.

A few verbs - honor, recall, remember - play an important part in Reagans speech.

These verbs are all in the simple form.

English has several verb forms. The simple and the progressive are two of them. English speakers are more likely to use the simple form than the progressive form  particularly in speaking.

So, you are more likely to hear we honor instead of we are honoring, or we recall instead of we are recalling.

Specifically, Reagan used what is called the simple present  the simple form of the verb in the present.

But the so-called simple present does not always line up exactly with the present time.

Reagan uses the simple present to describe something that is generally true about Memorial Day. He is not exactly talking about only the present moment in time.

This idea is somewhat difficult. And it raises an important issue: English verb forms, sometimes called tenses in grammar books, do not always cleanly line up with exact points in time.

Adjective use  great vs. noble

Another Memorial Day speech, given in 1914 by former President Woodrow Wilson, can teach us about some of the language choices American presidents often make when giving speeches.

Wilson suggested that Americans are sometimes known to be careless in their choice of words. He added, yet it is interesting to note that there are some words about which we are very careful.

As an example, Wilson said Americans use the adjective great in many different situations. But, he added, there is another word Americans are very careful to use, the adjective "noble." We never call a man noble who serves only himself... Wilson said.

Many other American presidents have been careful in using noble in their Memorial Day speeches as well.

For example, Reagan, in the same 1984 speech from earlier in this report, said the following:

A grateful nation opens her heart today in gratitude for their sacrifice, for their courage, and for their noble service.

Closing thoughts

Although todays report discussed American presidents, speeches, and language choices, you can use the general ideas in many different situations.

For example, think of a ceremony or remembrance in your own country. Think about what kinds of verbs and adjectives speakers of your language use in that situation. Then compare your own language to the kinds of choices that English speakers might make.

And although the idea of Memorial Day is serious, you can use some of the ideas you learned today to talk about fun, light-hearted celebrations. Think of how to use the simple present to talk about activities that usually take place on that day. And think about specific adjectives that are correct for the event.

Im John Russell.

John Russell wrote this lesson for VOA Learning English. Bryan Lynn was the editor.

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Words in This Story

courage  n. the ability to do something without being afraid

progressive  n. grammar: a verb tense that is used to refer to an action or a state that is continuing to happen  A progressive verb form in English consists of a form of the verb be followed by the main verb's present participle.

noble  adj. having, showing, or coming from personal qualities that people admire (such as honesty, generosity, courage, etc.)

grateful  adj. feeling or showing thanks to someone for some helpful act

gratitude  n. a feeling of appreciation or thanks
American software maker Microsoft says it will release new computer models with built-in artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

The new computers will be equipped with a new version of Microsofts existing AI tool, called Copilot. Copilot can operate across a series of Microsoft business products.

The Copilot service is based on OpenAIs ChatGPT tool, which launched in late 2022. ChatGPT is an AI tool designed to interact smoothly with humans and perform high-level writing and creative work. Such tools are also known as chatbots or generative AI.

Microsoft is a major investor in OpenAI. It is providing computing power and support for ChatGPTs operations.

Microsoft recently introduced the new tools at an event at its headquarters in Seattle, Washington. Chief executive Satya Nadella announced that the new computers will come loaded with the new Copilot+ system. The company said these new Windows-based PCs  which it calls AI-ready  will be the fastest, most intelligent ever built.

The event came one day before Microsofts yearly developer conference. That is where Microsoft introduces its latest new products and services to developers and the public.

The announcement is Microsofts latest move to deploy OpenAIs technology through Copilot to many product offerings. The system is already available for the companys Teams, Outlook, Bing search engine and Windows operating system.

Microsoft said its AI-based PCs will start being released on June 18 on the companys own Surface models. It will also be on PCs produced by partners. These include Lenovo, Dell, Acer and HP.

"These improvements provide the most compelling reason to upgrade your PC in a long time," said Microsoft Vice President Yusuf Mehdi.

Microsoft said the AI operations on the new PCs will take place on the device itself rather than a cloud server. This means users will not have to wait for information to be sent to and from the companys data centers or pay extra money for this service.

Microsoft has also promised that any tracking activity will only be done and saved on the device, not on company servers. Users will also be able to choose not to be tracked, the company added.

The Copilot+ AI offerings include live language translation and image creation. It also offers the ability to interact with the PCs through voice commands instead of clicking to perform certain jobs.

The new offerings also include a tool called Windows Recall. This gives the Copilot+ assistant what Microsoft describes as a photographic memory of a person's computer activity. The tool is designed to remember the things a user does on the PC in an effort to predict what the user might want to do next.

It's a step toward machines that instantly see us, hear, reason about our intent and our surroundings, Microsofts Nadella said. He added: Were entering this new era where computers not only understand us, but can actually anticipate what we want and our intent."

Nadella's announcement on AI comes shortly after some other major technology players announced new releases of their latest AI assistance systems.

Last week, Google introduced an improved search engine that shows brief AI-produced results before direct website links. The company also showed off an AI assistant called Astra, which is still in development. Astra is designed to be able to see and talk about things shown through a smartphones camera.

OpenAI introduced its latest chatbot version, ChatGPT-4o last week. Company officials demonstrated the new tool, which showed improved human characteristics that can give opinions about things. The new version also comes with tools that aim to judge a persons emotions.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse reported on this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the reports for VOA Learning English.

__________________________________________

Words in This Story

compelling  adj. very exciting or interesting and making you want to watch, listen, etc.

upgrade  v. to improve something so that it is of a higher quality or a newer model

track  v. to follow the online activities of a user

translate  v. to change written or spoken words from one language to another

intent  n. what a person wants and plans to do

anticipate  v. to expect something or to prepare for something before it happens

characteristic  n. a typical quality that makes one person or thing different from others
Sands China Ltd. is a supporting partner of leading tech event, BEYOND Expo 2024, being held at Cotai Expo at The Venetian Macao from May 22 to May 25.

The expo is focusing on international technology advancements and fostering a culture of tech and innovation in Asia.

Themed Embracing the Uncertainties this global tech-community gathering has innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration at its core.

This is being showcased in numerous ways including summits, forums and fireside chats with inspirational personalities.

According to a statement from the gaming operator, a defining moment for many in attendance yesterday was the conversation between Sands global ambassador and international celebrity, David Beckham and Grant Chum, chief executive officer and executive director of Sands China Ltd.

Beckham delved into combining personal passion with business acumen, highlighting the importance of authenticity and social impact in todays entrepreneurial landscape, the company said in a statement.

Beckham followed this with a tour of the expo before attending the Gala Dinner at The Venetian Ballroom, where Wilfred Wong, executive vice vhairman of Sands China Ltd., spoke to the distinguished guests about Sands Chinas commitment to supporting the development of Macaus high-tech industry and the governments 1+4 appropriate diversification development strategy.
Laman Ismayilova

Tajik Cinema Days has come to an end at Nizami Cinema Centre, Azernews reports.

The event was held within the Days of Tajik Culture organized in the cities of Baku and Ganja, featuring vibrant concerts, an exhibition of artists and craftsmen, film screenings and display of national costumes, which provide insight into the history, culture, and customs of the Tajik people.

Director of the Azerbaijan State Film Fund, Honored Artist Jamil Guliyev, addressed the closing ceremony of the Tajik Cinema Days.

Honored Artist Jamil Guliyev noted that the cinematographers of the two countries have always had close relations.

Noting that Tajik culture plays an important role in his life, Honored Art Worker and film critic Ayaz Salayev said:

"I established good relations with them while studying at the Institute of Cinematography in Moscow. My Tajik friend and director Tolib Hamidov played one of the main roles in my film "Bat". This was very important for me. I think that relations between our cultures should be established more closely."

Chairman of the Tajikistan Filmmakers Union Safar Hakdodov expressed hope that the cooperation between the two brotherly countries will continue to develop in the future.

Director-General of Tajikfilm Mahmadsaid Shokhiyon said that diplomatic relations between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan developed dynamically during the years of independence.

"The high-level, solid and reliable contacts between the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a great contribution to this," said the director general.

Director Nosir Saidov emphasized that the film "Mirror" was shot in the genre of psychological drama.

In the end, the movie "Mirror" was shown, which aroused great interest among the spectators.
In celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, the Environmental Protection Department has rolled out a series of activities to encourage environmental awareness and conservation efforts throughout Hong Kong. One of the initiatives is the annual Earth Hour event, where residents and businesses are urged to turn off all non-essential lighting for one hour starting at 8:30 pm on June 5. The department is also launching the Casual Dress, Save Energy campaign, which will see government departments across Hong Kong reducing their air conditioning usage from June 3 to Aug. 31.

Related
Lawmaker Jose Pereira Coutinho has urged the Macau government to amend the existing noise regulations to better reflect the realities of the regions high-density population and utilize modern sound monitoring technology.

According to the lawmaker, persistent day and night-time noises, whether continuous or intermittent, continue to plague local communities.

At a recent plenary session at the Legislative Assembly, Coutinho said that noise pollution has long been a serious issue for communities across Macau, particularly in densely populated areas. In the North District, current noise regulations under Law No. 14/2014 fail to effectively address the growing problem of intermittent background noise.

Authorities are not taking advantage of technological advancements when addressing noise complaints from citizens, instead using existing assessment methods and enforcement capabilities that fail to effectively mitigate the negative impacts of excessive noise from various sources.

For Coutinho, a major concern is the difficulty in accurately measuring and addressing low-frequency noise, which is a common problem in multi-unit residential buildings, noting that specialized equipment and expertise are required to properly assess these types of noise disturbances.

According to the World Health Organization, noise levels above 50 decibels can interfere with communication, while exposure to over 100 decibels can cause stress and other adverse health effects. Prolonged daily exposure to noise above 75 decibels also puts individuals at risk of hearing loss.

The consequences of uncontrolled noise pollution are wide-ranging, particularly for vulnerable groups like the elderly, students, and shift workers. Inadequate sleep and rest due to constant noise exposure can lead to a host of issues, including increased risk of accidents, anxiety, depression, physical health problems, and disruptions to daily life.

The lawmaker has emphasized that, despite ongoing citizen complaints, the current Prevention and Control of Environmental Noise law has proven ineffective in addressing the severity and complexity of Macaos noise pollution challenges. Howard Tong
Parking spaces at the Macau New Neighborhood (MNN) residential project in Hengqin will go on sale on May 24 (Friday), offering homeowners a convenient option for vehicle storage.

The MNN project features approximately 3,300 parking spaces with ownership rights on the ground floor and on the basement level. Standard-sized parking spaces are priced at MOP288,000 while tandem parking spots (two spaces) will be sold for MOP488,000. Homeowners must pay a MOP30,000 deposit and complete all relevant procedures within 30 days to secure a parking space.

The car park includes wide driveways and a number plate recognition smart parking system for added convenience when entering and exiting. All parking spaces are equipped for the installation of charging stations, allowing owners to make their own arrangements.

MNN homeowners can also apply for their vehicles to be allowed to enter and leave Hengqin (known as single-plate cars) to travel to and from Macau. Inquiries about the application procedure can be made at the Owners Loyalty Service Center located in the MNN Clubhouse. Macau residents can purchase remaining MNN residential units by submitting an application form with a deposit at the sales center in Hengqin. Staff Reporter
Taiwan scrambled jets and put missile, naval and land units on alert yesterday over Chinese military exercises being conducted around the self-governing island where a new leader took office this week.

Chinas military said its two-day exercises around Taiwan were punishment for separatist forces seeking independence. The island is part of Chinas national territory and the Peoples Liberation Army sends navy ships and warplanes into the Taiwan Strait and other areas around the island almost daily to wear down Taiwans defenses and seek to dissuade people who firmly back their status quo.

This pretext for conducting military exercises not only does not contribute to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, but also shows its hegemonic nature at heart, a Taiwan government statement said.

In his inauguration address on Monday, Taiwans Lai Ching-te called for Beijing to stop its military actions and pledged to neither yield nor provoke the mainland Communist Party leadership.

Facing external challenges and threats, we will continue to maintain the values of freedom and democracy, Lai told sailors and top security officials yesterday as he visited a marine base in Taoyuan, just south of Taipei.

While not directly referring to Chinas moves, he said international society was concerned about Taiwans security, a likely reflection of its key role in supply chains for the most advanced computer chips as well as a democratic bulwark against Chinese moves to assert its stance in the Asia-Pacific.

The main opposition Nationalist Party, which is generally seen as pro-China, also condemned Beijings actions.

The Nationalists, also known as the KMT, called on the opposite side of the (Taiwan Strait) to exercise restraint, cease unnecessary maneuvers, avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait and maintain the cherish the results of peace and development between the sides.

The Peoples Liberation Armys Eastern Theater Command said the land, navy and air exercises around Taiwan are meant to test the navy and air capabilities of the PLA units, as well as their joint strike abilities to hit targets and win control of the battlefield, the command said on its official Weibo account.

This is also a powerful punishment for the separatist forces seeking independence and a serious warning to external forces for interference and provocation, the statement said.

The PLA also released a map of the intended exercise area, which surrounds Taiwans main island at five different points, as well as places like Matsu and Kinmen, outlying islands that are closer to the Chinese mainland than Taiwan.

Chinas coast guard also said in a statement that it organized a fleet to carry out law enforcement drills near two islands close to the Taiwanese-controlled island groups of Kinmen and Matsu just off the Chinese coast.

Speaking in Australia, Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Stephen Sklenka, the deputy commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, called on Asia-Pacific nations to condemn the Chinese military exercises.

Theres no surprise whenever theres an action that highlights Taiwan in the international sphere the Chinese feel compelled to make some kind of form of statement, Sklenka told the National Press Club of Australia in the capital Canberra, in a reference to Mondays inauguration.

Japans top envoy weighed in while visiting the U.S., saying Japan and Taiwan share values and principles, including freedom, democracy, basic rights and rule of law.

(Taiwan) is our extremely important partner that we have close economic relations and exchanges of people, and is our precious friend, Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters in Washington, where she held talks with Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

She said the two ministers discussed Taiwan and the importance of the Taiwan Strait, one of the worlds most important waterways for shipping, remaining peaceful. MDT/AP
Authorities on Friday identified the Beloit police officer who on May 16 fatally shot a man who had allegedly stabbed a woman.

Cole Gille, a 6-year law enforcement veteran, was the officer who shot Gregory W. Tracy, 54, of South Beloit, Illinois, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation said in a statement.

Tracy was pronounced dead at the scene in the 2000 block of Frederick Street in Beloit, and a forensic examination was completed on Saturday. The cause and manner of death are pending and additional testing is underway, the Rock County Medical Examiners Department said.

DCI said last week that shortly before 3:30 p.m. May 16, Beloit police responded to a 911 callers report of a stabbing near the 2000 block of Frederick Street and found a woman who had been stabbed and a man later identified as Tracy armed with an edged weapon who was making violent threats to harm a second person believed to be in the residence, although investigators later determined that no one else was in the residence.

One officer used a less lethal option that was not specified, but it was ineffective. A second officer later identified as Gille then shot the man. Life-saving measures were performed, but the man died at the scene, DCI said.

The woman who had been stabbed was taken to a local hospital for treatment of her injuries, and an officer was treated for minor injuries sustained during the incident, DCI said.

Gille remains on administrative leave, per agency policy, DCI said.

DCI ultimately will turn its investigative reports over to the Rock County District Attorney.
Dodge County Clerk Karen Gibson decided years ago she would likely step down when she was old enough to retire, which happened about a year ago when she turned 55.

But Gibson, who has spent the past two decades as the countys top election official, said it was Wisconsins 2020 presidential election  and the toxic mix of disinformation, conspiracy theories and harassment faced by local election officials across the state that followed  that made that decision even easier.

After that 2020 election  I said, No, I will not be here in 2024, said Gibson, 56. Her last day in the office was May 17.

Gibson is one of more than 30 county clerks in the state to retire or move on to new careers since the 2020 election, according to the Wisconsin County Clerks Association. That means on Nov. 5, clerks in more than 40% of the states 72 counties will be conducting their first presidential election, a number that WCCA president and Wood County Clerk Trent Miner called particularly unusual.

That doesnt account for the number of Wisconsins more than 1,800 municipal clerks who have decided to hang it up since 2020. The Wisconsin Municipal Clerks Association doesnt track that data, but association president and village of Kohler Deputy Clerk Cindi Gamb said the number of city, village and town clerks  as well as other election officials like volunteers and poll workers  who have left the field is substantial.

We lost a lot of good people because of all the problems that we had in 2020, Gamb said. We have election officials who dont feel safe, who dont want to do elections anymore.

A lot of turnover

A survey of local election officials by the Elections and Voting Information Center last summer found that one in 10 considered leaving the job due to safety concerns.

Whats more, more than one of every three local election officials will be eligible to retire before the 2026 midterm election. About four in 10 of those eligible to retire said they plan to resign before then.

The number of clerks that will never have been through a presidential election is probably greater in this particular election cycle than it has ever been, said Debra Cronmiller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin. We have seen a lot of turnover at all levels, which is probably a direct result of the doxing, the threatening behavior, the harassment.

Its just complete sadness that that is an environment that didnt exist until the lies started being told, and now exists because the lies continue to be told, Cronmiller said.

Safeguards, changes

Wisconsin elections boast a wide range of safeguards built into the electoral process to prevent the levels of fraud that some continue to claim occurred in 2020.

Those include voter registration requirements, the use of tamper-evident seals for storing ballots and unique markings on each ballot to ensure they can only be read by voting machines at the appropriate polling site. Computers used to tabulate votes must also be hardened, meaning they cannot be connected to a network and can only have certain necessary programs installed on them.

Everything that occurs on Election Day, including paper jams or technical problems, is logged in an inspectors statement. In addition, a select number of county and municipal clerks audit voting equipment after each election.

Training for changes

Clerks and poll workers also must complete training to ensure they know the ins and outs of election administration and stay up to date on any new laws or rules surrounding the process.

Every election we have changes, Madison Clerk Maribeth Witzel-Behl said. Thats one of the reasons we require every poll worker to attend training before every election that they work, because something will have changed.

One area of change that remains unclear for clerks relates to a constitutional amendment passed by voters in the April primary that prohibits anyone not considered an election official from performing election-related tasks.

The lawyer for Dane County last month asked Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul to provide clarity on the issue, noting in an April 24 request the amendment does not clearly define an election official designated by law or what constitutes an election task.

Some clerks have raised concern that the change could ban other municipal workers from helping with election-related duties like cybersecurity for election systems or transporting election equipment to polling sites.

Depending on the community and depending on their resources, this could greatly affect the way they are able to conduct elections, said Oconomowoc City Clerk Diane Coenen. But without more definition, we dont really know.

Kauls office is in the process of drafting a nonbinding opinion on the matter, state Department of Justice spokesperson Gillian Drummond said.

Clerks are also bracing for the possibility that absentee ballot drop boxes, which saw increased use during the COVID-19 pandemic but were banned in 2022 by a conservative majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, might come back into the fold as the courts new liberal majority considers overturning that ruling.

Doubt persists

Misinformation surrounding the 2020 presidential election has persisted despite recounts, court decisions and multiple reviews affirming that President Joe Biden defeated former President Donald Trump in Wisconsin by almost 21,000 votes.

The biggest proponent of the lie that the 2020 election was stolen has been Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. Trump has visited Wisconsin twice this year, holding an April rally in Green Bay and another earlier this month in Waukesha, where he again claimed he won the state four years ago.

During his stop in Waukesha, Trump told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel he would accept the results of the November election if everythings honest.

Former GOP state Sen. Kathy Bernier, the state director for Keep Our Republic, which seeks to build confidence in elections, said distrust in the electoral process predates Trump and 2020  noting reports of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

But the former county clerk said Trumps initial refusal to accept defeat in 2020, and his baseless assertions of widespread fraud in states like Wisconsin, have not only fueled ongoing skepticism in the states electoral process, but have also laid the foundation for a potentially similar scenario this fall.

I think the stress, the tension and the heightened anxiety will continue as long as Donald Trump keeps coming into the state of Wisconsin saying he won the state in 2020 and keeps everyone jazzed up, so to speak, Bernier said.

Transparent process

When faced with misinformation or even just general questions surrounding Wisconsins electoral process, Miner, like many clerks, reminds skeptics that the process is by design transparent, with several public events ranging from the testing of voting machines to the post-election canvass of votes. Local polling places are also always on the lookout for poll workers, he added.

I tell them to get their butts in the polling places and work them, Miner said. Get in there and be involved so you can make a rational argument.

Im not saying everything we do is perfect, and sometimes I dont necessarily agree with every state statute on the books, but those are the laws we have to live with and thats how we run our elections and I think we do a pretty good job of it, he said.

Despite the many opportunities for the public to watch or get involved, not many people do, Coenen said.

I cant think any clerk who would not welcome observers, she said. We have nothing to hide.

Coenen, a former president of the Wisconsin Municipal Clerks Association who has worked elections in the state for 26 years, considered stepping down before November but said she still enjoys the job and didnt want to leave her county in need of finding a new clerk before November.

I can handle one more, she said.

Elections 101: Video series explains how elections are carried out in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Elections Commission put together the following series of instructional videos and accompanying lesson plans for use in high school civics classes and the general public. Elections overview An overview of elections administration in Wisconsin. Voting Security Let's take a look at how we maintain security and integrity with all of our elections. Nuts and bolts The ins-and-outs of voter processes like registering to vote and requesting a ballot to vote absentee. A Day at the Polls See what it is like to go to the polls and vote.
Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijan National Library has opened a book exhibition called "Abbas Sahhat - 150", Azernews reports. The event is dedicated to Azerbaijani poet and dramatist Abbas Sahhat.

The exhibition displays the poet's works, translations, musical notes composed of his words, books about his life and creativity in Azerbaijani and different languages. The exhibition will last one week.

Abbas Sahhat translated works of Pushkin, Lermontov, Nadson, Krylov, Hugo, Musset, Prudhomme, Amir Khusro as well as a number of German poets into Azeribaijani.

In 1912, he published his first collection of poems entitled Sinig saz (Broken Saz), his narrative poem Ahmadin shujaati and his translations of Western European literature under the name Garb gunashi (The Sun of the West).

In 1916, his romantic poem Shah, muza va shaharli was published. In his literary style, influence of classical poets such as Nizami, Hafez and Saadi, and modern poets such as Tevfik Fikret, is seen.

Among his dramatic pieces, Neft fontani (1912) and Yoxsullug ayib deyil (1913) are noteworthy. There are accounts of a novel written by Sahhat and entitled Ali and Aisha. It was never published and its manuscript is believed to have perished during the Dashnak occupation of Shamakhi in April 1918, when Sahhat's house was ravaged and burned. The poet himself managed to escape the town with his family, fleeing first to Kurdamir and later to Ganja, where he died some months later of a stroke.

Notably, the Azerbaijan National Library is a treasure trove of knowledge for bookworms.

With over 5 million books, manuscripts, and maps, the Azerbaijan National Library is considered one of the largest libraries in the Caucasus region. Since 1939, the library has borne the name of the eminent playwright Mirza Fatali Akhundov.

The library has an extensive collection of literature in Azerbaijani, Russian, English, and other languages. It has collected and preserved national editions, works of Azerbaijani and foreign authors about Azerbaijan published abroad.

The National Leader, Heydar Aliyev, visited the National Library four times in 1995-1997 and donated nearly 300 books from his personal library.

In 2004, the Mirza Fatali Akhundov Library was granted the status of a national library by the decision of Azerbaijan's Cabinet of Ministers.

The building of the library is no less impressive. The library's fa?ade is decorated with the statues of eminent poets and writers like Nizami Ganjavi, Mahsati Ganjavi, Uzeyir Hajibayli, Shota Rustaveli, Alexander Pushkin and many others.

The scope of the library's activities is constantly expanding. In 2005, on the basis of legal copies received from publishing houses and printing companies, the library published the yearbook "Books of Azerbaijan" for 1990, 1991, 2000, and 2001.

Over the past years, the National Library has signed a memorandum on bilateral mutual cooperation with about 80 libraries.

In 2021, the Culture Ministry and Mirza Fatali Akhundov Library launched a joint campaign, "Let's go to Garabagh with a book", to restore libraries in the Garabagh region.

A large number of books were donated to the Garabagh Book Fund by a number of international organisations working in the field of culture, Turkic-speaking countries, famous foreign and local authors, publishers, and print houses.
WATERTOWN  Mention a spiral staircase in this city and the first thought is the Octagon House.

Built on a hill in 1854 by John Richards as a promise to his bride-to-be, the homes three stories and its cupola are accessed via a staircase that winds through the center of the building.

Richards, who arrived here on foot in 1837 as one of the citys first settlers and who would become the first lawyer in Jefferson County, designed the home to include central heating, running water and ventilating systems, something nearly unheard of at the time. The bricks used to build the house were hauled from Milwaukee over the Plank Road, which had been completed a few years earlier.

But just down the hill from the Octagon House and the nations first Kindergarten building is a spiral staircase that for more than 100 years has been largely obscured from the public eye.

Its located in the brick and concrete powerhouse building that towers along the west bank of the Rock River and is adjacent to the dam. Unlike the Octagon House, the powerhouses spiral staircase is in the southwest corner of the rectangular building and connects the basement to the second floor. Accessing the third floor is an arduous adventure up a steep metal staircase that more resembles a ladder, one that would never meet modern building codes.

But the powerhouse, which no longer generates electricity, is up for sale and could be an ideal structure for condominiums, a restaurant, brewpub or maybe all three, since this city of more than 24,000 people has glaring need for all of the above.

Its just really well built. Its a bunker, said Art Lenius, who has owned the property for the past 20 years. And its nice because your neighbor is Tivoli Island, so youre never going to have neighbors anywhere. Its a beautiful fit.

The powerhouse building is nowhere near among the oldest buildings in the city but its prominence along the river has made it one of the more identifiable.

The facility was constructed in 1909 just to the north of the original dam that was made of dirt and timbers in the 1840s by settling Bohemians. In 1847, the Rough & Ready Mill opened and could grind 80 barrels of flour a day, while on the opposite side of the 300-foot-long dam on the east side of the river stood a sawmill, according to Watertown Historical Society documents. The grist mill burned in 1888 and ultimately was replaced with a powerhouse owned by the Watertown Electric Company.

The existing powerhouse, now owned by Lenius, was constructed in 1909 by the Watertown Gas & Electric Company at the same time that the dam was moved just to the north of the original dam site of the 1840s. The project included an 11.5-foot-high dam, with the 38-foot-wide and 94-foot-long powerhouse rising 85 feet from the river bottom and holding two large water wheels, a generator and transformer connected to the Kilbourn Dam in what is now Wisconsin Dells. Electricity from both dams was used to power the Inter-Urban electric railway line from Milwaukee to Watertown that began operating in 1908.

The entrance of the Inter-Urban railway marks another period in Watertowns prosperity, and it means much to our citys advancement, the Watertown Gazette newspaper wrote at the time.

The powerhouse has had a number of owners over the years but hasnt produced power for decades.

The asking price on the powerhouse building is $449,000 but should not be confused with an adjacent smaller brick building owned by Tom Reiss. For years, the local businessman, who owns power generating stations around the country, has been generating power at the dam and at the citys other dam, located downstream along South Water Street. The sale of the powerhouse by Lenius includes land and the large, dormant and empty powerhouse but does not include the smaller powerhouse building, owned by Reiss, or the dam, which is owned by the city.

Lenius put the powerhouse up for sale in 2023. There have been several lookers but so far, no takers. Ryan Wagner, the listing agent for the property, says it would be difficult to find a similar property anywhere.

The history of it is amazing. Itd be so cool if somebody did something, Wagner said. As a broker, every chance Watertown has to create a development to bring housing is good. Housing brings people, and the more things we can do to attract developers to the community, the better.

Pieces of history

Lenius is no stranger to old buildings. Over the past 41 years, the Watertown native has built his business, Restoration Specialists, working on scores of historic structures including homes, commercial buildings and churches. He owns a former lumberyard on South Water Street that was converted years ago into retail market spaces and just recently purchased a four-story brick building constructed in 1902 along the railroad tracks. Lenius has an industrial park filled with warehouses next to his home north of the city, collects cuckoo clocks and has more than 60 vintage cars and pickup trucks.

When the Highway 26 bypass was constructed around the city, it was Lenius who bought the clubhouse of the displaced Watertown Outboarders. Lenius moved the structure to his property north of Watertown and continues to eye historic buildings.

Theyre well built. They can be neglected, but it doesnt take much to bring them back, Lenius said. The catch is knowing how to do it, which I learned from a lot of old guys that did this kind of work. That was my Ph.D. I made it through high school. That was it.

Lenius had grand ideas when he purchased the powerhouse about 20 years ago, cleaned out the junk, fixed the roof and added some retaining walls to shore up the driveway. He spent $35,000 on architectural plans to convert the building into 10 condominium units, two of which would be located on the third floor. The plans also called for underground parking and 12 parking spaces outside. He and his wife had visions of living in one of the top floor condos, but time got away from him.

Lenius spends his winters at his oceanfront home in South America and says its time for someone else to preserve the history of the powerhouse.

Its a neat old building and its got a lot of potential, he said. I ended up doing other big projects and now Im 62, so somethings got to give. Im never going to get to this now. Ive been trying to do it for 20 years, but its time for someone else to do it.

Photos: Watertown powerhouse
Whether Puerto Rico should be granted statehood is a hot topic in Washington. That's because, if the island became America's 51st state, it would likely result in two more Democratic senators and a handful of new Democratic representatives.

In 1898, after the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico was officially designated as an unincorporated territory. This matters because unincorporated territories, unlike incorporated territories, are not considered potential states. Alaska and Hawaii, on the other hand, were granted the status of incorporated territories in 1912 and 1898, respectively. As such, both were granted statehood in 1959.

More important, it would be unwise to make Puerto Rico the 51st state because the island is an economic basket case. Puerto Rico is drowning in tens of billions of dollars of debt. If Puerto Rico were to become a state, that financial burden would be absorbed by the U.S. government and added to the $34.5 trillion national debt. The United States spends close to $1 trillion a year on interest payments on the national debt. We cannot afford any more debt.

Unfortunately, the average per-capita income in Puerto Rico is $24,560, according to Statista. This is significantly lower than the per-capita income in the United States ($65,423) and well below the per-capita income of Mississippi ($48,110), which ranks as the poorest state in the nation.

So if Puerto Rico were granted statehood, many of the 3.2 million people living on the island would become eligible for federal benefits such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. This would add a huge new load to programs that are already overburdened and skyrocketing in cost.

Many social and political problems also are associated with Puerto Rican statehood. For instance, many Puerto Ricans don't speak English, and many identify more with their Puerto Rican heritage. Some Puerto Ricans prefer independence to U.S. statehood.

Moreover, if Puerto Rico were to become a state, it would incentivize other territories and the District of Columbia to pursue statehood. This would further upset the delicate balance of political power because it would likely result in total Democratic control of Congress and the executive branch.

As then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said in 2019, when the issue of Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico statehood reached an apex in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives: They plan to make the District of Columbia a state  thatd give them two new Democratic senators  Puerto Rico a state, that would give them two more new Democratic senators. So this is full-bore socialism on the march in the House. And yeah, as long as Im the majority leader of the Senate, none of that stuff is going anywhere.

McConnell is right. If Puerto Rico became a state, it would likely result in decades of Democratic political control.

We also must recognize that granting statehood is an arduous process that necessitates several steps, including a referendum among the people, passage by both houses of Congress, and the signature of the president.

Given that Puerto Rico is not an incorporated territory, that the people of Puerto Rico seem mostly apathetic on statehood, that Congress is unlikely to agree and presidential authorization isn't guaranteed, Puerto Rican statehood is a pipe dream.
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said Friday it signed a new technical agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to help the pension fund grow its insurance business and continue to safeguard civil servants and government assets.

This joint effort is not just about protecting the future of government assets. With a robust insurance framework, this collaborative mission is a pro-active approach in demonstrating the GSIS commitment to building a stronger and safer nation through sustainable infrastructure practices, said GSIS president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso.

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Veloso and JICA chief representative Sakamoto Takema signed the agreement in November last year.

JICA is an implementing agency of Japanese official development aid (ODA) for the purpose of supporting the socio-economic development, recovery or economic stability of developing regions. Through this collaboration, the Philippines continues to achieve sustainable development in the transport sector, while providing additional lift for the administrations Build Better More infrastructure initiatives.

The Technical Cooperation Project is designed to enhance GSIS underwriting capabilities, improve the capacity of its insurance group to calculate replacement costs and establish accurate insurance premium rates.

The initiative will focus on developing an effective Information and Education Campaign (IEC) strategy to raise public awareness about the importance of insurance.

Following the kickoff meeting, GSIS core business sector acting executive vice president Jason Teng highlighted Japans exemplary public insurance system.

There is a compelling need for us in the GSIS to harness advanced systems and innovative approaches. Consequently, we are very happy and grateful to the Government of Japan and JICA for initiating this project. We believe that we can learn a lot from Japans best practices in public insurance and their ability to inculcate widespread consciousness towards insurance among the general public, said Teng.

GSIS reported a net income of P37 billion in the first quarter of 2024, a 21-percent increase from P30.75 billion a year ago. The growth in profitability was driven by strong revenues reaching P85 billion.

The state insurers total general insurance premium income amounted to P2.55 billion, up by 27 percent from a year earlier.

JICA insurance expert team lead Takeshi Kuwabara said: We believe that this partnership with the Philippine Government opens up new avenues of collaboration. We see that this will help develop the insurance industry in the country and more assets will be protected from catastrophes. This will enable us to integrate Japanese know-how and expertise with the GSIS to help you build its capabilities and processes creating better products and services to its customers. We are confident that we will help build the initiatives of the government towards a more sustainable Philippines.

Japan is home to some of the worlds largest insurance companies. It has one of the largest and most mature insurance markets in the world bolstering some of the highest life and non-life premiums written globally.

The countrys insurance sector accounted for 4.3 percent of their GDP in 2021, nearly triple that of the Philippines.
President Marcos thanked Her Majesty Queen Maxima of the Netherlands for her support in enhancing inclusive finance and financial health in the Philippines.

As the United Nations Secretary-Generals Special Advocate (UNSGSA) for Inclusive Finance for Development, Queen Maxima pledged assistance in improving connectivity, cybersecurity, digitization, and interoperable payments, focusing on underserved groups such as farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

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Well, thats a very, very handsome offer. Thank you very much, Your Majesty, President Marcos said during Queen Maximas courtesy call at Malacanan Palace on Wednesday, May 22.

President Marcos mentioned ongoing projects to improve internet connectivity in the Philippines and affirmed the countrys capacity to address these issues.

Queen Maximas visit from May 21 to 23 marks her second trip to the Philippines as UNSGSA, following her 2015 visit for the launch of the Philippines National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (NFSI).

The NFSI is a government action plan designed to ensure coordinated efforts in policy-making and program implementation for financial inclusion.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to fly to Brunei and Singapore for back-to-back visits next week, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

In a Palace briefing, Foreign Affairs spokesperson Teresita Daza said First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos will accompany the President during the trip.

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The President will be traveling to Brunei on [the] 28th to 29th of May to undertake his first state visit to the Sultanate. While in Brunei, the President will be meeting with His Majesty, the Sultan, who is also Sultan Head of State of Brunei Darussalam, Daza said.

There will be a business forum where the President will meet with top members of the business sectors to promote trade and investment relations between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam, she added.

The DFA official said the Presidents visit to Singapore is for his participation in the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue on May 31.

According to Foreign Affairs Office of the Asian Pacific Affairs Assistant Secretary Aileen Mendiola-Rau, Marcos will be the first Filipino president to deliver a keynote address at the annual intergovernmental security forum.

Mendiola-Rau said the President is expected to have a dialogue with Singapores new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the sidelines of the event.

We expect several side meetings during the Shangri-La Dialogue, she said.
Josiah Williams, an 11th-grade student at McDowell Virtual Academy, has received the Woodson Scholars Award from Berea College in Kentucky.

The award is named after Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who was an alumnus of Berea College and the Father of Black History Month.

Williams was one of many high school juniors from around the nation nominated based on outstanding academic achievement, community service and leadership. He was nominated by his principal based on his excellent academic record and numerous volunteer hours in maintenance, disaster relief and childrens ministries at Grace Community Church, according to a news release.

Additionally, Williams has participated in a mission trip in Africa and will also serve in Ecuador this coming summer. MVA Principal Eve Walker and Jack Jensen presented Williams with the award. He and his family will visit Berea College in the fall as part of the award, according to the news release.

The Carter G. Woodson Distinguished Student Service Award recognizes students of color with exemplary service, leadership and academic achievements, according to the colleges website.
China's Jiangsu unveils plan to improve TCM services

Xinhua) 08:41, May 24, 2024

NANJING, May 23 (Xinhua) -- East China's Jiangsu Province has announced a comprehensive plan to improve traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) services, leveraging the unique strengths of TCM to elevate the overall quality of medical services.

As part of its strategy, Jiangsu will boost the capacity of TCM-focused institutions to handle outpatient and emergency services. The plan includes the establishment of multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment teams, aiming to strengthen the integration of TCM approaches within the health care system.

The economic powerhouse province will also enhance TCM services at the county level, encouraging community health services centers and township hospitals to offer clinical services that combine Chinese and Western medicine.

Additionally, the province is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for the development of TCM. Medical institutions will be encouraged to provide personalized TCM services for patients.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Fatime Letifova

According to the bilateral military cooperation plan for 2024 between the Defense Ministries of Azerbaijan and Serbia, a working meeting of the military experts on engineering support of the two countries on humanitarian mine clearance was held at the International Military Cooperation Department of the Defense Ministry, Azernews reports.

At the meeting, the Chief of the Main Department of the Engineering Troops, Major General Anar Karimov gave detailed information to the guests about the mine clearance work done in the liberated territories after the victory in the Patriotic War under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Mr. Ilham Aliyev.

It was noted that the necessary engineering support measures continue in cooperation with other government authorities in a planned manner in order to organize a high-level military service in liberated territories with difficult terrain.

The meeting exchanged views on the equipment in the armament of both countries for neutralization of mines, improvised explosive devices and unexploded ammunition, as well as the supply of engineering units and other necessary topics.
GREENSBORO  A senior pastor of Friendly Avenue Baptist Church faces a federal criminal charge for allegedly falsifying records during a sexual misconduct investigation at a Texas seminary where he served as an interim provost, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of New York.

The Rev. Matthew Queen, 49, of Greensboro, who was interim provost at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, in 2023, when a Department of Justice investigation began, is charged with one count of falsification of records, a crime that carries a maximum prison term of 20 years, the release said.

Queen was arraigned before U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan, senior judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, on May 21, the release said. It is unclear why charges stemmed from the New York District.

Calls to the Greensboro church and to Queen were not immediately returned on Friday.

Information about Queen's custody status was not immediately available.

Queen is accused of falsifying records related to a sexual misconduct probe at the seminary, where he worked for about a decade, the release detailed.

According to the Justice Department, Queen did not inform the FBI of a conspiracy to destroy evidence about the misconduct investigation, but allegedly falsified notes to provide to federal investigators.

Queens alleged actions deliberately violated a court order and delayed justice for the sexual abuse victims, FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said in a release.

On Thursday, the seminary released a statement regarding charges against Queen:

"The indictment against Matt Queen, a former seminary administrator and professor, stems from a report in November 2022 of an alleged sexual abuse committed by a Texas Baptist College student. Within hours of becoming aware of an arrest warrant for the student on Jan. 24, 2023, the seminary facilitated the arrest of the accused student, who was suspended and later withdrew from the college.''

When seminary administrators became aware of the original report and the "later responses of certain staff,'' the seminary notified the Justice Department, the statement said.

"The seminary has and will continue to cooperate fully with the DOJ in its investigation of sexual abuse,'' the statement said.

After seminary administrators learned of Queens alleged actions in June 2023, he was placed on administrative leave and resigned as interim provost, the statement said.

"Southwestern Seminary takes seriously its moral and legal duties to care for victims of sexual abuse. The actions alleged in the indictment are antithetical to the values of the seminary,'' the seminary statement said.
Morocco and Cote dIvoire signed, Wednesday in Bali, a cooperation agreement in the field of water resources, meant to strengthen institutional and technical cooperation between the two countries in the field of integrated water resource management.

The agreement was signed, on the sidelines of the ongoing 10th World Water Forum, by Moroccan Equipment and Water Minister, Nizar Baraka, and Ivorian Water and Forests Minister, Laurent Tchagba.

The agreement particulary covers water legislation, the development of awareness-raising initiatives for the rationalization and protection of water resources, and the integrated management of national and transborder water resources.

The document also covers water transfer technology, groundwater management and water resource governance, including the creation of national and regional basin organizations.

Baraka who welcomed the signing of the agreement as reflecting the close relations between the two countries said Morocco is ready to support Cote dIvoire in the management of water resources, particularly with regard to the establishment of basin agencies.

For his part, Tchagba noted that the signing of the agreement follows a preparatory process begun last year in Fez during the 3rd International Conference on Water and Climate (July 6-7, 2023).

Cote dIvoire, which adopted a water law last November, is counting on the Moroccan experience to ensure better management of its water resources, he added.

Organized jointly by the World Water Council and the Indonesian government, the 10th World Water Forum is attended by some 30,000 participants from 172 countries.
King Mohammed VI, Commander of the Faithful, called on Moroccan pilgrims to embody the lofty values of Islam, including those of integrity, proper treatment of others, solidarity, and sincerity when turning to the Lord of the Worlds.

In a message he addressed Thursday to the first group of Moroccan pilgrims heading to the Holy Shrines of Islam for the pilgrimage of the year 1445 H, the King said: My message to you stems from the special importance I have always attached to sacred religious values which need to be observed during hajj rituals.

King Mohammed VI has called on Moroccan pilgrims to represent their country in the best way possible during the great Hajj season, by adhering to the quintessential values of Islam, including moderation, sincere brotherhood, unwavering tolerance, and effective solidarity.

While in the Holy Land for Hajj, make sure  may God protect you  that you perform all rites, obligatory rituals and recommended practices, said the King in his message that was read out by Minister of Habous & Islamic Affairs Ahmed Toufiq.

Urging pilgrims to devote their time to supplication, remembering the Almighty and seeking His forgiveness, he stated in that way, you may obtain what God has promised believers as a reward for performing an accepted Hajj; indeed, the Prophet  peace and blessings be upon Him  said: For an accepted Hajj, there is no other reward than Paradise, underlined the King.

The King also called Moroccan pilgrims to respect the measures taken and the arrangements made by the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs to provide for your comfort throughout your journey. The aim is to enable pilgrims to perform your rituals in the best conditions possible, thanks to the specialized teams which will accompany you from the time you leave until your return home. These teams include administrators, male and female religious scholars and guides as well as male and female doctors and nurses, who will be looking after you. They will be working around the clock to provide the services needed by pilgrims immediately.

I am sure you realize that performing the Hajj rituals in these holy places requires strict adherence to the regulatory measures taken by the relevant authorities in our sister nation, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to provide for the comfort and safety of the guests of the Almighty, said the royal message, noting that the goal is to ensure the Hajj season proceeds safely and smoothly.
Kenyan special forces with experience battling al-Shabaab militants in East Africa are set to arrive in Haiti in the coming days. This is part of a larger UN-backed multinational mission aimed at stabilizing the Caribbean nation after months of gang mayhem and violence. As the first troops began deploying, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Haiti was on the brink of becoming a failed state.

An advance team of Kenyan officers landed in the capital Port-au-Prince this week as the citys airport reopened after being shut down for nearly 3 months due to gang uprisings. Around 1,000 Kenyan personnel are expected to join the mission, along with contingents from several other countries like Chile, Jamaica, and Nigeria. Kenyan media reports indicate additional troops will arrive during President William Rutos state visit to the U.S.

Blinken claimed there is now an opportunity to achieve enduring stability in Haiti after decades of turmoil. He cited the reopened airport as progress, anticipating U.S. flights resuming there soon. The Kenyan deployment will draw elite counterinsurgency units experienced in fighting Somalia-based militants.

While some see the mission as a vital step toward peace after the 2021 assassination of Haitis president, others are skeptical that another foreign intervention can succeed given the troubled history of such operations. The last UN stabilization mission faced allegations of human rights abuses.

Blinken urged Congress to fund the mission despite policeman of the world concerns, arguing that multi-national support is crucial to restore order and reduce gang control, which has overtaken 80% of the capital. However, Haitis embattled police lament resources going to foreign forces instead of bolstering their own dangerously under-equipped efforts.
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The 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting is being held May 31 to June 4, 2024, in Chicago and online.

The theme of this year's meeting is "The Art and Science of Cancer Care: From Comfort to Cure." Attendees will share and discuss the latest clinical cancer research impacting patient care. "Treatment advances involving targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and new uses of technology, as well as research on improving patient quality of life and outcomes are among the topics that will be highlighted in the meeting's official Press Program," ASCO states in a press release.

According to ASCO, a record number of abstracts were submitted this year, and more than 5,000 abstracts are being presented or published as part of the program. A preview of the abstract titles can be viewed on the meeting website.

During the Opening Session, Lynn M. Schuchter, M.D., of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, will deliver the President's Address, and Lillian L. Siu, M.D., of the Princess Margaret Cancer Center at the University of Toronto, will deliver the David Karnofsky Memorial Award and Lecture. Those attending in person also can register separately for two workshops: "Genomics 101 for Oncologists" and "Navigating Communication With Seriously Ill Patients."

Other featured sessions include 21 case-based panels with interactive audience polling and joint sessions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, National Cancer Institute, American Association for Cancer Research, and European Cancer Organization.

Stay tuned for continued coverage of the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting on Physician's Briefing, HealthDay's newsfeed for medical professionals.

More information: More Information

Copyright  2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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The autonomous Resuscitation based on Functional Hemodynamic Monitoring (ReFit) system is shown in the foreground, while emergency clinicians and researchers check the animal. The ReFit system supplies fluids, medication and blood based on its assessment of the animal's needs, keeping it alive without human intervention. Credit: Nathan Langer, UPMC

For the first time, a closed loop, autonomous intervention nearly quadrupled the "golden hour" during which surgeons could save the life of a large animal with internal traumatic bleeding while in emergency ground and air transport.

This breakthrough in trauma care, announced in Intensive Care Medicine Experimental by physician-scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, has enormous potential for saving the lives of traumatically injured members of the military harmed in remote battlefields or civilians injured in mass casualty events or rural locations far from advanced medical care.

"Under normal conditions, if we can get somebody with severe trauma to the hospital within an hour, there's a good chance that we can save them," said the project's scientific lead Michael R. Pinsky, M.D., professor of critical care medicine, bioengineering and clinical and translational medicine at Pitt.

"For the first time in the history of medicine, we took an animal in a critical state onto a helicopter and autonomously brought it back healthier than when it was placed in emergency transport hours earlier. The implications this has for treating people in the field with trauma are phenomenal."

The multidisciplinary Pitt team, assisted by computer scientists from Carnegie Mellon University, tested a key component of the Trauma Care in a Rucksack (TRACIR) system, designed to fit inside a backpack that could be delivered by drone to remote locations.

The minimally invasive, closed loop algorithm, called Resuscitation based on Functional Hemodynamic Monitoring (ReFit), autonomously gave intravenous fluids, blood and drugs to maintain vital functions in pigs with a traumatic lethal liver injury for three to five hours without human intervention, while they were transported by ground ambulance and helicopter and finally returned to the laboratory surgical suite as a demonstration project.

On different days, a total of four fully anesthetized pigswhose anatomy and response to traumatic injury closely resembles that of humansunderwent surgical liver laceration in a laboratory surgical suite under approved animal research guidelines. They were allowed to hemorrhage for 30 minutes before being resuscitated with the ReFit computer algorithm system, which is about the size of a microwave.

Once the autonomous resuscitation device was turned on, the pigs received no medical intervention from a human beyond monitoring by an emergency medicine doctor to ensure they remained fully anesthetized and in no discomfort.

Ronald Poropatich, M.D., (left) director of the University of Pittsburgh Center for Military Medicine, and Michael R. Pinsky, M.D., (right) professor in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, bid farewell to a flight crew before they test the ReFit system's capabilities in a medical helicopter transport. Credit: Nathan Langer, UPMC

Two of the pigs, connected to ReFit, were placed on a stretcher and moved by emergency medical technicians to a hospital helipad where a medical helicopter flew them around Western Pennsylvania for several hours to mimic an emergency rescue from a remote location. The other two were transported first by ground ambulance to the Allegheny County Airport where they were then loaded onto a medical helicopter and flown back to the hospital helipad over similarly prolonged flight paths to simulate long distance transport.

Once returned, the research team confirmed that they could resuscitate the anesthetized pigs autonomously for several hours without human intervention using only a computer-generated autonomous care algorithm.

"By keeping these animals with a lethal injury alive for up to five hours with a computer driving the resuscitation, you can see how that extends the golden hour," said principal investigator Ronald Poropatich, M.D., director of the Center for Military Medicine Research and professor of medicine at Pitt. "We are excited about the potential to soon apply this technology to saving the lives of people injured in austere environments."

The team's next step is to test transporting ReFit-connected injured animals by unmanned aerial drones to make the process even more effective for rescuing injured people in difficult-to-access locations, such as a mountainside or a military battlefield.

More information: Autonomous Precision Resuscitation during Ground and Air Transport of an animal hemorrhagic shock model, Intensive Care Medicine Experimental (2024).
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A family uses a boat after fleeing floodwaters that wreaked havoc in the Githurai area of Nairobi, Kenya, April 24, 2024. Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera. In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Patrick Ngugi, File

Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera.

In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021.

Malawi and Zambia have had their worst outbreaks on record. Zimbabwe has had multiple waves. Mozambique, Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia also have been badly affected.

All have experienced floods or droughtin some cases, bothand health authorities, scientists and aid agencies say the unprecedented surge of the water-borne bacterial infection in Africa is the newest example of how extreme weather is playing a role in driving disease outbreaks.

"The outbreaks are getting much larger because the extreme climate events are getting much more common," said Tulio de Oliveira, a South Africa-based scientist who studies diseases in the developing world.

De Oliveira, who led a team that identified new coronavirus variants during the COVID-19 pandemic, said southern Africa's latest outbreaks can be traced to the cyclones and floods that hit Malawi in late 2021 and early 2022, carrying the cholera bacteria to areas it doesn't normally reach.

Floodwaters are visible in Ombaka Village, Kisumu, Kenya, April 17, 2024. Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera. In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Brian Ongoro, File

Zimbabwe and Zambia have seen cases rise as they wrestle with severe droughts and people rely on less safe sources of water in their desperation like boreholes, shallow wells and rivers, which can all be contaminated. Days after the deadly flooding in Kenya and other parts of East Africa this month, cholera cases appeared.

The World Health Organization calls cholera a disease of poverty, as it thrives where there is poor sanitation and a lack of clean water. Africa has had eight times as many deaths this year as the Middle East, the second-most affected region.

Historically vulnerable, Africa is even more at risk as it faces the worst impacts of climate change as well as the effect of the El Nino weather phenomenon, health experts say.

In what's become a perfect storm, there's also a global shortage of cholera vaccines, which are needed only in poorer countries.

"It doesn't affect countries with resources," said Dr. Daniela Garone, the international medical coordinator for Doctors Without Borders, also known by its French acronym MSF. "So, it doesn't bring the resources."

Billions of dollars have been invested into other diseases that predominantly affect the world's most vulnerable, like polio and tuberculosis, largely because those diseases are highly contagious and could cause outbreaks even in rich countries. But that's not the case with cholera, where epidemics remain contained.

People gather on a bridge after floodwater washed away houses near Nakuru, Kenya, Tuesday, April 30, 2024. Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of hunger and displacement. They leave another deadly threat behind them: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera. In southern and East Africa, more than 6,000 people have died and nearly 350,000 cases have been reported since a series of cholera outbreaks began in late 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Brian Inganga, file

WHO said this month there is a "critical shortage" of oral cholera vaccines in the global stockpile. Since the start of 2023, 15 countriesthe desperate fewhave requested a total of 82 million doses to deal with deadly outbreaks while only 46 million doses were available.

There are just 3.2 million doses left, below the target of having at least 5 million in reserve. While there are currently cholera epidemics in the Middle East, the Americas and Southeast Asia, Africa is by far the worst-affected region.

Vaccines alliance GAVI and UNICEF said last month that the approval of a new cholera vaccine would boost stocks. But the result of the shortage has already been measured in deaths.

Lilanda, a township on the edge of the Zambian capital of Lusaka, is a typical cholera hot spot. Stagnant pools of water dot the dirt roads. Clean water is like gold dust. Here, over two awful days in January, Mildred Banda saw her 1-year-old son die from cholera and rushed to save the life of her teenage daughter.

Cholera shouldn't be killing anyone. The disease is easily treated and easily preventedand the vaccines are relatively simple to produce.

That didn't help Banda's son, Ndanji.

Mildred Banda holds a phone showing a picture of her one-year-old son who died of Cholera in Lilanda township in Lusaka, Zambia, Saturday, March, 9, 2024. Lilanda, an impoverished township on the edge of the Zambian capital of Lusaka, is a typical cholera hotspot. Stagnant pools of water dot the dirt roads. Clean water is gold dust. Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of famine and displacement, and leaving another deadly threat in their aftermath: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera. Credit: AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi

When he fell sick with diarrhea, he was treated with an oral rehydration solution at a clinic and released. He slipped back into dehydration that night at home. Banda feels terrible guilt.

"I should have noticed earlier that my son was not feeling well," she said, sitting in her tiny concrete house. "I should have acted faster and taken him back to the clinic. I should have taken him back to save his life."

Because of the vaccine shortage, Zambia couldn't undertake a preventative vaccination campaign after neighboring Malawi's outbreak. That should have been a warning call, said de Oliveira. Zambia only made an emergency request when its cases started mounting.

The doses that might have saved Ndanji started arriving in mid-January. He died on Jan. 6.

In Zimbabwe, a drought worsened by El Nino has seen cholera take hold in distant rural areas as well as its traditional hot spots of crowded urban neighborhoods.

Abi Kebra Belaye, MSF representative for Zimbabwe, said the southern African nation normally has around 17 hard-hit areas, mostly urban. This year, cholera spread to 62 districts as the struggle to find water heightened the risk.

A picture of Mildred Bandas daughter, survivor of a cholera outbreak, is seen inside their family home in Lilanda, Zambia, Saturday, March 9, 2024. Lilanda, an impoverished township on the edge of the Zambian capital of Lusaka, is a typical cholera hotspot. Stagnant pools of water dot the dirt roads. Clean water is gold dust. Extreme weather events have hit parts of Africa relentlessly in the last three years, with tropical storms, floods and drought causing crises of famine and displacement, and leaving another deadly threat in their aftermath: some of the continent's worst outbreaks of cholera. Credit: AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi

"This part of Africa is paying the highest price of climate change," Kebra Belaye said.

Augustine Chonyera, who hails from a cholera-prone part of the capital, Harare, was shocked when he recently visited the sparsely populated rural district of Buhera.

He said he heard grim tales of the impact of the disease: a family losing five members, a husband and wife dying within hours of each other and local businesses using delivery trucks to take the sick to a clinic several kilometers (miles) away.

"It seems now the people in rural areas are in more danger than us. I still wonder how it happened," Chonyera said.

He said he returned home as soon as he couldafter giving a large bottle of treated water he had brought with him to an elderly woman.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: Cedric Fauntleroy from Pexels

Periodontitis is a disease that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth and is associated with other types of diseases. A study conducted at the faculty of dentistry shows that patients with severe periodontitis also have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and COPD.

The study is published in the journal BMC Oral Health with related previous research published in Journal of Clinical Periodontology.

Ida Haukaen Stdle is a specialist in periodontology and has just completed her doctorate at the faculty.

She shares the following:

The overall purpose of my thesis was to investigate the prevalence of periodontitis and to examine whether we could identify conditions that may be associated with periodontitis. Since periodontitis affects many people, these associations may also be relevant for many, and therefore we have a responsibility to address these potential associations with our patients, says Ida.

Oral health is important for overall health. Maybe we should not consider oral health as something separate but consider health in general. To highlight oral health on its own entails an artificial focus. Interaction between different diseases indicates that we must consider general health as part of periodontal treatment. We should inform patients and encourage them to speak to their general practitioner if they have severe periodontitis and other health challenges, Ida continues.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition that can lead to tooth loss and is caused by bacteria that naturally occur in the oral flora. The disease can develop if there is an overgrowth of these bacteria, but not for everyone. The susceptibility varies among individuals.

A new classification of periodontitis

Part of the task was to look at the prevalence of periodontitis in the surveyed population. In 2018, a new globally accepted classification of periodontal diseases was published, which forms the basis for the initial investigations, says Stdle.

We reported the overall prevalence and further prevalence of different severity levels of periodontitis. Once we had identified the participants with periodontitis, we further examined them for any other concurrent diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

We know that several conditions are associated with periodontitis. We selected some to see how they were expressed using the new classification. The findings largely corresponded to previous observations. We also found that those with severe periodontitis, those with significant periodontal bone loss, also have a higher prevalence of other diseases compared to those with little or no periodontitis.

We also included rheumatic conditions in this research but found no association with periodontitis for individuals with rheumatism. This was somewhat surprising because we already know about this association, and since rheumatoid arthritis is also an inflammatory condition, one would expect these diseases to occur together, Ida explains.

There may be several reasons why we did not observe any association. How we included rheumatic conditions in the material, whether we have thoroughly differentiated between healthy and sick individuals, and whether the dataset is large enough, for example. We did not attempt to distinguish between the various forms of rheumatoid arthritis. These factors contribute to the findings in our studies.

Uncertain findings for celiac disease and associations with periodontitis

We also looked at celiac disease. It was a separate study; it was exciting because there is little research on these two diseases. We had no expectations that there would be any difference in periodontal bone loss in individuals with and without celiac disease.

Nevertheless, we found that those with celiac disease have less frequent bone loss as if celiac disease protected against periodontitis. We do not know what lies behind this observation or how the relationship can be explained, and due to this uncertainty, it is hard to draw any conclusions. It would be exciting if further research could be done on this, says Ida.

Extensive and comprehensive material

The studies are based on a vast material, in which almost 5,000 adults from Nord-Trndelag have participated. The transferability is good for small towns and rural areas. The population from larger cities, where the demography may differ, is not included. Therefore, the findings cannot necessarily represent all population groups in Norway. Population studies (the HUNT studies) have been conducted in this population in Nord-Trndelag several times, precisely because it is particularly suitable due to stability.

The public dental service (DOT) in Trndelag, in collaboration with the Oral Health Competence Center, TkMidt carried out the clinical oral and dental health examinations used in the doctoral work. The dentists and dental hygienists who collected this large amount of data did extensive work.

There were periodontal examinations, but also caries examinations and examinations of mucous membranes, in addition to X-rays of all the nearly 5000 participants. The X-rays consisted of a panoramic X-ray image and four smaller images from each participant.

X-rays and further work were analyzed in collaboration with my supervisors, Odd Carsten Koldsland and Anders Verket. The results of the X-ray analysis were compared with data from the clinical examinations. Statistical calculations also made up a significant part of the analyses. Several employees from TkMidt contributed to this. The work has resulted in three articles, Ida explains.

Self-reported disease

The method is partly based on self-reported illness and not exclusively on medical examinations. Self-reported data is weaker than if we had confirmed medical diagnoses and it must be considered when interpreting findings. Blood samples have been obtained from all participants, including blood sugar measurements.

This strengthens the material, and studies have shown that when the disease is well-defined, such as diabetes, there is a good correlation between self-reported illness and an actual diagnosis. Self-reporting is a limitation in our data, but not to such an extensive extent that we do not believe the results.

Medical personnel also obtained many other variables, such as weight, height, and blood pressure. We had a vast amount of data on inflammatory mediators or cells. We did not use it because some choices had to be made. But the data from HUNT are extensive and good and are well-suited for a hypothesis-generating study like this, says Ida.

Preventing periodontitis and diseases associated with periodontitis

We know that the treatment of periodontitis reduces inflammation and can improve blood sugar control in some cases for diabetics. These are connections we need to keep a high focus on. We need to communicate information so patients and health care professionals can benefit from this knowledgefor treatment and to prevent disease.

Risk factors are often the same for several diseases and conditions, including periodontitis, such as smoking. By reducing smoking, the risk for multiple conditions is also reduced. We can discuss this with patients and refer them further if needed.

We should specifically pay attention to the part of the population that goes to the dentist but may not easily seek other health care services. Collaboration across health care professions and having good information flow should be central in preventing periodontitis and diseases associated with periodontitis, concludes Ida.

More information: Ida Haukaen Stdle et al, Association between periodontitis stages and self-reported diseases in a Norwegian population: the HUNT study, BMC Oral Health (2023). DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03743-z
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A doctor holds a vial of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine Gardasil in Chicago on Aug. 28, 2006. Research published Thursday, May 23, 2024, by the American Society of Clinical Oncology suggests the HPV vaccine is preventing throat cancer in men, as well as cervical cancer in women, but fewer boys than girls are getting the shots in the United States. Credit: AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File

New research suggests the HPV vaccine is preventing cancer in men, as well as in women, but fewer boys than girls are getting the shots in the United States.

The HPV vaccine was developed to prevent cervical cancer in women and experts give it credit, along with screening, for lowering cervical cancer rates. Evidence that the shots are preventing HPV-related cancers in men has been slower to emerge, but the new research suggests vaccinated men have fewer cancers of the mouth and throat compared to those who didn't get the shots. These cancers are more than twice as common in men than in women.

For the study, researchers compared 3.4 million people of similar ageshalf vaccinated versus half unvaccinatedin a large health care dataset.

As expected, vaccinated women had a lower risk of developing cervical cancer within at least five years of getting the shots. For men, there were benefits too. Vaccinated men had a lower risk of developing any HPV-related cancer, such as cancers of the anus, penis and mouth and throat.

These cancers take years to develop so the numbers were low: There were 57 HPV-related cancers among the unvaccinated menmostly head and neck cancerscompared to 26 among the men who had the HPV vaccine.

"We think the maximum benefit from the vaccine will actually happen in the next two or three decades," said study co-author Dr. Joseph Curry, a head and neck surgeon at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in Philadelphia. "What we're showing here is an early wave of effect."

Results of the study and a second were released Thursday by the American Society of Clinical Oncology and will be discussed next month at its annual meeting in Chicago. The second study shows vaccination rates rising but males lag behind females in getting the HPV shots.

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is very common and is spread through sex. Most HPV infections cause no symptoms and clear up without treatment. Others develop into cancer, about 37,000 cases a year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In the U.S., the HPV vaccine has been recommended since 2006 for girls at age 11 or 12, and since 2011 for boys the same age. Catch-up shots are recommended for anyone through age 26 who hasn't been vaccinated.

In the second study, researchers looked at self- and parent-reported HPV vaccination rates in preteens and young adults in a large government survey. From 2011 to 2020, vaccination rates rose from 38% to 49% among females, and among males from 8% to 36%.

"HPV vaccine uptake among young males increased by more than fourfold over the last decade, though vaccination rates among young males still fall behind females," said study co-author Dr. Danh Nguyen at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

Parents of boys, as well as girls, should know that HPV vaccines lower cancer risk, said Jasmin Tiro of the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center who was not involved in the research. And young men who haven't been vaccinated can still get the shots.

"It's really important that teenagers get exposed to the vaccine before they're exposed to the virus," she said.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Fatime Letifova

The Azerbaijani border guards have taken control of 4 liberated villages in Gazakh, Azernews reports.

In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, to ensure the liberation of the villages of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Eskipara, Kheyrimli, and Qizilhajili in the Gazakh region of the Republic of Azerbaijan from occupation, a Protocol was signed on the delimitation of the state border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia on April 19, 2024.

Based on the geodetic measurements on the coordinates of the border line for the implementation of the mentioned Protocol, a Technical Protocol reflecting the results of joint fieldwork has been prepared.

On May 15, 2024, the 9th meeting of the Commissions on the border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia was held, the aforementioned Technical Protocol was agreed upon, and the respective Protocol was signed by the Commissions. As a result of the delimitation works, a border line of 12.7 km in length has been determined, ensuring the return of the territories of the 4 villages of the Qazakh region of the Republic of Azerbaijan: Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Eskipara, Kheyrimli, and Qizilhajili (6.5 km2) to Azerbaijan. Today, the territories of the villages of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Eskipara, Kheyrimli, and Qizilhajili in the Qazakh region of the Republic of Azerbaijan have been taken under control by the State Border Service of Azerbaijan.
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Graphical abstract. Credit: Li et al.

In a study published in Cell Host & Microbe, a research team has demonstrated the causal link between microbial factors and dysfunction of intestinal stem cells (ISCs) in colitis. On the basis of this mechanism, they proposed a possible approach to restore ISC function in colitis.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease characterized by microbial dysbiosis and dysfunction of ISCs in the gut. However, how these two factors are directly communicated remains poorly understood.

In this study, researchers first revealed that  2A -adrenergic receptor (ADRA2A) is a highly expressed G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) in ISCs. Through PRESTO-Tango and BRET2 GPCR assays against ADRA2A using a customized library of 88 microbial metabolites, they identified that a microbial metabolite, tyramine, directly activates ADRA2A in ISCs.

Tyramine is mainly produced by human gut commensal Enterococcus bacteria via tyrosine decarboxylase (tyrDC). Additionally, Enterococcus, tyramine and ADRA2A are enriched in geographically distinct IBD cohorts.

The researchers subsequently investigated the effect of Enterococcus-derived tyramine. They used an engineered tyrDC-deficient Enterococcus faecalis strain and intestinal epithelial cell-specific Adra2a knockout mice, and demonstrated that Enterococcus-derived tyramine suppresses ISC proliferation (and thus epithelial regeneration), thereby impairing epithelial regeneration and exacerbating DSS-induced colitis through ADRA2A.

The researchers came up with a possible treatment for colitis by blocking the EnterococcustyramineADRA2A axis to restore ISC-driven epithelial regeneration. They applied yohimbine, an antagonist of ADRA2A, to mice with DSS-induced colitis. Compared with the non-treatment controls, yohimbine treatment significantly ameliorated the phenotypes of DSS-induced colitis, suggesting a helpful therapy.

The study reveals a causal link between microbial regulation of ISCs and colitis exacerbation, and provides new ways for treating colitis. The research team was led by Prof. Pan Wen from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with research teams led by Prof. Zhu Shu and Prof. Song Xinyang

More information: Chaoliang Li et al, Enterococcus-derived tyramine hijacks 2A-adrenergic receptor in intestinal stem cells to exacerbate colitis, Cell Host & Microbe (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2024.04.020 Journal information: Cell Host & Microbe
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Credit: Tara Winstead from Pexels

Sweden is seeing "an explosion" of ADHD cases among children that has put it far above the global average, the government said Friday as it ordered a review to find out why.

Around 10.5 percent of boys and six percent of girls in Sweden in 2022 had been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed told reporters, citing statistics from the Board of Health and Welfare.

The figures were expected to rise to 15 and 11 percent respectively before leveling off, he said, citing a forecast from the Swedish Medical Products Agency.

Around five to seven percent of children worldwide have an ADHD diagnosis, the government said.

"Sweden stands out in this context. The number of ADHD diagnoses has increased sharply over time... and shows no sign of abating," Forssmed said.

In addition, ADHD medications prescribed to boys aged 10 to 17 had increased by 800 percent over the past 15 years, from one percent of boys having a prescription in 2001 to eight percent in 2022.

For girls the increase was tenfold, from 0.5 percent to around five percent.

Forssmed ordered the Medical Products Agency and other concerned authorities to conduct a review to find out what was behind the surge.

"More knowledge is needed," he said.

Since Sweden's previous treatment recommendation was issued in 2016, "new medications have been developed, as well as new research and expanded indicators", he said.

Forssmed said some of the explanations that have been floated include "increased awareness among healthcare professionals, schools and the public (and) broader diagnosis criteria".

"There also seems to be a belief that a diagnosis has been a formal or informal prerequisite to be able to get extra help in school."

He said the review was part of the government's plan to promote mental health and prevent suicide among children and youths.

 2024 AFP
The myth that homeless people are swarming in from out of state rather than being from Montana, an increase in people seeking shelter and the length of their stay, a lack of funding for effective programs, a dearth of state-provided resources for the mentally ill, high housing costs and inaction from state lawmakers are just a few of the things that need to be tackled in Montana.

That's if Montanans really want to solve one of the states most intractable problems, according to a panel of homeless shelter directors who gathered for a panel discussion in Missoula this week.

The Homeless Shelter Summit, billed as the first-of-its-kind event in Montana, drew over 100 participants from around the state to the Missoula Public Library on Thursday afternoon.

The state of homelessness in Montana is its in a crisis, we all know that, said David OLeary, the executive director of the Montana Continuum of Care Coalition, a statewide nonprofit that works to advocate for people living without shelter.

He said that a recent count from Coordinated Entry Systems estimated that there are over 3,000 homeless individuals in Montana, but that is probably an undercount because it doesnt count people who are couch-hopping and people who didn't interact with the system.

Simply put, we need to do better, he said. We need to de-stigmatize homelessness in Montana and we need to remember that we are all neighbors. Were all Montanans and we all want the same thing, a safe place to call home.

Heather Grenier, the president and CEO of the Human Resources Development Council in Bozeman, said the shelter that the nonprofit operates has seen big increases in almost every segment of populations they serve.

Were showing stark increases in the overall numbers, the sheer numbers of people that are seeking shelter, as well as (younger) populations 18-24, she said. And for elderly populations, I think we had a 40% increase over the span of three years in people over 60 accessing shelter. A really big spike in American Indian, Alaskan, Native or Indigenous, 70% in that same time frame. And then a really big spike, a 53% increase in folks that are presenting with a mental health disorder. Weve also seen a spike in folks with a physical disability or a developmental disability. So there really is not a category that were not seeing a significant uptick in.

She said the shelter needs more space, more cultural capacity for Hispanic and Native populations and more capacity to serve people who need a higher level of care.

Brayton Erickson, the executive director of the Butte Rescue Mission, said theyre seeing a large increase in older and disabled individuals. He said theyve also seen a lot of victims of human trafficking, because theyre so close to Interstate 15 and Interstate 90.

Last year, we served 24 individuals that left human trafficking rings in the Butte area, he said. The year previous, we only saw five. So that doesnt mean its an 800% increase. It means were better educating our staff members, were working better with law enforcement, were identifying individuals and seeing the signs. These people have been through a lot of trauma and they need specialized care.

He also noted that the Butte homeless shelter is just down the road from the Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs. The facility provides inpatient psychiatric treatment for adults with serious mental illness.

Im not picking on anybody, but I cant say that the state has done a great job in transitioning people out of the state facility that have mental illnesses or mental health difficulties and have a roadmap for them to find success and find healing paths for their mental illness, he said. It seems like a weekly thing where they show up with a backpack that is full of pills and theyre in flip-flops and a T-shirt. Like, just got dropped off. And so a lot of our staff spends a lot of time going back and figuring out the issue and why they just got wrapped up in our services and these types of things.  So it seems like were on the receiving end when the ball gets dropped, but were there to care for those individuals.

He noted that the shelter is working with the hospital and the state is trying to put resources toward the problem, but its an ongoing issue.

Jill Bonny, the executive director of the Poverello Center homeless shelter in Missoula, said the main shelter is housing 150 people every night and the Johnson Street Emergency Shelter is housing another 180 every night.

She said theres been a 40-45% increase in the number of older guests at the shelter in the last three years.

Were also seeing an increase in youth that are aging out of foster care, she said. Really just seeing an increase across the board.

Theres been a drastic increase in the length of stay of people in shelters across the state, Bonny explained. The average length of stay is now 160 days across the state.

Which is a lot higher than it used to be, she said. So people just dont have solutions.

She also said her staff are often overwhelmed with caring for people who are unable to care for themselves or manage their daily living activities.

We are a homeless shelter, we are not a medical care facility, she said. So we dont have the staffing or the facility to be able to care for individuals who need that kind of care and that is really traumatic for the people we serve and our staff. So for our staff to have to tell people, You cant stay here, we cant care for you and also I dont know where to tell you to go, is really hard.

Stacey Umhey, the executive director of SAFE in the Bitterroot for people fleeing domestic and sexual violence, said a lack of affordable housing is a huge issue.

The challenge that we have is that theres no next space for folks in most of our communities, she said. So, there are no rentals. I looked this morning and in Hamilton, where I do my work, there were a total of four rentals today. A total of four rentals in the entire community. Weve got more people than that in our emergency shelter who dont have the resources to compete with folks who are coming from those more populous areas.

She said the emergency shelter has operated at more than 100% capacity every year for the last three years.

The amount of times that weve had to turn people away simply because we dont have room was 90 times in 2022 in a very small community, she said. So thats a big need and a lack of ability to meet that need.

She said the biggest challenge is changing the hearts of the people who make policy and decisions in our communities.

You know, in our own community in the last couple months, our local leadership was really clear, like, Well put money into serving folks who are unhoused as long as its for the purpose of purchasing bus tickets to send them out of our community,'" she said. "Ive seen other community leaders in the state write letters saying, Do not support anything to do with housing, the homeless population in our community, because then people will come here and well be like Missoula. Goodness gracious, nobody wants that. Right?"

Umhey believes there needs to be more recognition that bad things can happen to almost everybody.

"And so, we really have to kind of work hard at that level to help people understand that people who stay at the SAFE shelter are the family members of policy-makers, are the friends of decision-makers, are the people that we go to worship with," she said. "They are us and so really kind of always making that point.

All four members of the panel said theyve heard a lot of untrue rhetoric about how the majority of the homeless population is from outside of Montana or outside of the communities where the shelters are and simply arrived there for services or were transported there by some mysterious entity.

Emily Armstrong, the houseless programs manager for the city of Missoula, said her office and other partners have tried to measure it in a few different ways.

Its a really hard statistic to capture for a lot of different reasons, she said. The first being, when you start asking whos from here or who isnt from here, Im gonna ask you how long counts in your definition? Is it three months? Is it three years? Is it 13 years? But weve tried measuring it in a number of different ways and in every single type of measurement its about 70% of the people that were serving, in Missoula at least, are from Missoula or from Montana. So it really is the majority in any way we measure it. It really is the majority of the people that were serving are our neighbors.

She also noted that places like Missoula and Bozeman are service hubs with lots of grocery stores and things like that, so people without resources are drawn here.

Erickson said that in Butte, about 75% of people seeking shelter services are from the area. Bonny noted that people who become homeless in places like Dillon, where there are no shelter services, will of course try to get to places like Missoula to find a warm place to sleep at night.

Sam Forstag, with the Montana Coalition to Solve Homelessness, said that the average guest at the Samaritan House in the Flathead Valley has lived in the area for at least five years.

We made it maybe one month in the Legislative session last year before I shared with the executive committee, I think we had a running list about two pages long of myths and rumors that legislators were frequently and constantly bringing up like this," he said. "For example: 'People getting bus tickets from out of state is big part of the spike that were seeing.'
Rumors have been running rampant for years but now its official  the Butte Plaza Mall has been sold.

The mall will have several tenants, including two clothing stores, a sporting goods store, and a couple of craft stores, along with a beauty supply store. Another larger store may go on the backside of the mall where JCPenney was once housed.

The new owners are based in Corvallis, Oregon, and include brothers Darren and Matt Dickerhoof, and Rich Carone.

The mall has been losing stores for several years now and most of it is now vacant. JCPenney, an anchor store on one end, closed in 2014 and Herbergers, the anchor on the other end, closed in 2018. Several others have left as well.

There have been calls to rearrange and redevelop the mall for years now but county leaders, including former Chief Executives Matt Vincent and Dave Palmer, said it was difficult to reach owners through the Hyman Family Trust in California.

The Dickerhoofs and Carone, a Corvallis developer, have limited liability companies called Butte-iful, LLC, and HSCaterpillar, LLC.

According to the Dickerhoof Properties website, the company has been in business for more than 50 years and in 2000, began acquiring retail property which has now reached more than 1,700,000 square feet.

Papers were signed last Tuesday and the new property owners paid $8.5 million to the Hyman Family Trust.

The new owners said Butte has the most underserved market in Montana.

We specialize in smaller markets and we think there are retailers that want to come to Butte, said Darren Dickerhoof.

Not much will change at the mall until early next year, he said. Thats when the real work will begin.

One of the first changes will be the section that once housed Herbergers getting demolished. The popular department store was a fixture in the mall for 24 years. Coming soon will be a chain grocery store.

I cant comment yet on which grocery chain, said Darren Dickerhoof, who hopes to have more concrete plans to share in the next couple of months.

Dickerhoof and his brother just returned from a shopping center convention in Las Vegas and met with several tenants to specifically talk about Butte.

He also revealed that they are in talks with such stores as TJ Maxx, Ross Dress for Less, and Marshalls.

It is highly likely that at least one of them will end up at the center, said Darren.

In the meantime, plans are underway, at least on paper, to turn the mall inside out. Once all the renovations are made, all stores will face outward, rather than inward, and each store will have its own facade.

Dickerhoof said he and his partners are excited to get started.

This a long-term investment, he said. We do not plan to renovate and then flip it.

Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher said that official news is exciting.

This is what people have been asking for, he said.

Gallagher said he, along with his staff, and the countys economic development team have been working through the details with the Oregon developers for close to two years.

This new development, according to Gallagher, will help to keep residents shopping locally with the added bonus of attracting people from outlying areas.

It will enhance their shopping experience and benefit our other small businesses, he said.
0 of 9 Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani smiles during Fairleigh Dickinson University's graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Portrait of Hashmat Vejdani during Fairleigh Dickinson University's graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani shakes hands after receiving his diploma during Fairleigh Dickinson University's graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani celebrates after receiving his diploma during Fairleigh Dickinson University's graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Fairleigh Dickinson University's commencement ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani laughs during Fairleigh Dickinson University's graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani stands with other graduates during Fairleigh Dickinson University's commencement ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani walks toward the stage to receive his diploma during the Fairleigh Dickinson University graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media) Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses Hashmat Vejdani walks toward the stage to receive his diploma during Fairleigh Dickinson University's graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media/Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media)

Hashmat Vejdani attended Fairleigh Dickinsons commencement at MetLife Stadium last Wednesday as just another student in a sea of graduates.

But Vejdani, who earned his masters degree in global affairs, was unlike any other student.

His path to graduation spanned several countries, thousands of miles and a lucky string of introductions and connections at Fairleigh Dickinson that eventually brought him to safety.

For most of the masters program, the 37-year-old attended classes in the middle of the night in a hidden safe house in Pakistan  secured by a sprawling network of university contacts  more than 6,000 miles away from New Jersey.

Vejdani fled his home in Afghanistan with his wife and three young children three years ago after the Taliban seized control of the country.

My life was in danger in Afghanistan, he told NJ Advance Media.

As a former interpreter for the United States and well-known peace activist, Vejdani was an outspoken critic of the Taliban and an advocate for womens rights in the country. His familys harrowing journey ended in April when they moved to the U.S.

Peter Woolley, director of the universitys School of Global and Public Affairs, was instrumental in helping the family, Vejdani said.

Woolley saved the lives of five people, Vejdani said.

Getting accepted

Vejdani, who was interested in attending a graduate program in the U.S., first connected with Fairleigh Dickinson University through an adjunct professor he knew at the school.

Christie Innes, the admissions director for the universitys School of Global and Public Affairs, recalled reading Vejdanis goals on his application: to become Afghanistans ambassador to the United Nations, and then, the president of Afghanistan.

I thought to myself, who is this guy? Innes said, with a laugh. But, you know, as I read more about him and certainly as I got to know him, he is just an exceptional individual and so committed to improving the lives of the people of Afghanistan.

Vejdani graduated from Herat University, in western Afghanistan, with a bachelors degree in chemistry in 2008. Afterward, he worked as a translator for the U.S. Army in the countrys Helmand Province for a few months, he said.

He then began teaching chemistry at a girls high school in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, where he walked some students to school in a nation that has not always supported girls education.

He also has several other jobs, including working for the U.S. Institute of Peace; the now-defunct Civil Society and Human Rights Network; as an independent journalist; and as a spokesperson for the Federation of Afghan Journalists in Exile.

Woolley said the global affairs program is specialized and typically meant for those who have diplomatic visas, like embassy officials. But other students are occasionally admitted.

Hashmat was one of those people, he said. We thought given his background and his public profile in Afghanistan, that he would fit in very nicely.

In the fall of 2020, Vejdani enrolled in the program and started his classes remotely, due to COVID-19.

Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses While he was taking classes, Hashmat Vejdani was holed up in a safe house in Pakistan with his family. Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media

Taliban takeover

At first, Vejdanis classes went smoothly, although the timing was unusual.

His classes were all remote. They typically started in the evening in the U.S., so a 6 p.m. class in New Jersey meant a 2 a.m. class in Afghanistan. But, he said he didnt mind the odd hours.

If you make this opportunity for me, especially my professors, then I never tire, and they encouraged me a lot, Vejdani recalled of the support he received.

But, on Aug. 15, 2021, Afghanistans government collapsed, and the Taliban captured Kabul. That same month, the U.S. completed its withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.

During the first few chaotic days of the Talibans takeover, Vejdani stayed in close contact with FDUs Innes, the schools admissions director. The two exchanged roughly 600 emails and texts within three days, she said.

The university has other students from countries in the Middle East, but during that time, Vejdanis situation was significantly different.

He truly was at risk, Innes said. It was just around the clock of panic and what do I do.

Innes asked Woolley, director of the universitys School of Global and Public Affairs, if there was anything the university could do to help Vejdani.

And I said, no, theres nothing we can do, said Woolley, who later said he was the most skeptical about Vejdanis likelihood of reaching safety. And then I thought about it, and I thought, wait a minute, I know somebody. I know somebody I can ask.

That somebody was Michael Moss, a Fairleigh Dickinson alumnus and former university trustee.

Moss, who works in the international trading business for high-value consumer goods and now lives in Sarasota, Florida, said hes known various Pashtun traders since the 1990s after doing business in Afghanistan for many years.

Pashtuns are an ethnic group found in both Afghanistan and Pakistan, according to the federal government.

Moss, who said hes helped more than 400 people over the border in Afghanistan, used his contacts to transfer Vejdani and his family out of the country.

I asked the people who I was closest to to move him to Pakistan under guard, said Moss, and they moved him to Pakistan and saved him and his familys life.

Risky escape

The move wasnt immediate.

Vejdani and his family were first transferred to a safe house in Kabul for a week, he said. Innes spent time gathering important documents for Vejdani, in case he lost access to a phone or computer and needed the materials in the future.

The transfer to the safe house near Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, was even riskier. Fearing officials would trace his movements digitally, Vejdani stopped all communications, Innes said. He paused all phone calls, texts and emails. He deleted his Facebook account.

For 24 to 48 hours, Innes didnt hear from Vejdani. She didnt know if he was alive.

But, the family made it across the border safely, thanks to Moss contacts.

It wasnt a given for his safety. I mean, anything couldve happened, said Moss. But I have some real high-quality people in Afghanistan who, lets say, get the job done.

The family lived in a safe house in Pakistan for two and a half years, but even there, the threat of danger remained. Afghan refugees are not safe in Pakistan, university officials said.

Theres backlash against refugees, and both neighbors and officials can pose a threat, Woolley said. I was concerned that the police might shake them down, or the police might threaten them or deport them, he said.

The Taliban continued to search for Vejdani as well, Innes said.

One day, Vejdani sent Innes a video of someone who was taken back to Afghanistan. Members of the Taliban were peering over a window ledge at his fathers house, looking for Vejdani.

Another time, Vejdanis wife was told their childrens documents were incorrect, and she had to go to the Afghan Embassy in Pakistan to correct the mistake, Innes said. But, she was smart enough to recognize the request was a ruse, aimed at capturing Vejdani, which the U.S. Embassy confirmed, Innes said.

Because of the danger, Vejdanis three children also had to remain hidden while in Pakistan. The children couldnt attend school or play with other kids, Woolley said.

Meanwhile, Vejdani continued his coursework in Fairleigh Dickinsons masters program.

Man graduates from N.J. university after fleeing Afghanistan, hiding in safe houses This week's graduation marked the first time Vejdani met his classmates, professors and other university officials who helped him along the way. Will Morales | For NJ Advance Media

University officials Vejdani knew, as well as his professors and classmates, were all helpful throughout his time in Pakistan with logistical support and encouragement, he said.

Early on, the International Organization for Migration  an intergovernmental organization run through the United Nations that works to resettle people  gave Vejdani an identification number for his refugee status, after the familys application was processed, Woolley said.

We heard nothing  nothing  for maybe two years, said Woolley.

And then, earlier this year, Vejdani was suddenly asked to schedule interviews to be relocated as a refugee.

The vetting process, which involved doctors appointments, paperwork and other legal documents, unfolded over a few months, and led to Vejdani and his family being approved for relocation, Woolley said.

The family first flew to Qatar, and then to the U.S.

The government resettled them in Clemson, South Carolina, where the family is currently living, although Vejdani hopes to move to New Jersey at some point.

Commencement dream

Last week was the first time Vejdani met Woolley, Innes, his professors and his classmates in person  the culmination of a years-long dream.

This was my hope, that one day I meet my professors in person and participate in my graduation ceremonies, said Vejdani, who visited the United Nations in New York City on Tuesday and toured the university campuses on Wednesday.

He hopes to continue his education by pursuing a doctorate next, as well as finding a job to support his family. University officials are trying to help him find work.

Vejdani also plans to continue his humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan while living in the U.S.

Vejdanis children are finally back in school, after more than two years in hiding.

He sent Innes photos of his family in Pakistan as they were waiting to leave right before their flight. Everyone had just one bag, she said.

Vejdani called Innes on FaceTime as soon as the family landed in Washington, D.C., before their next flight to South Carolina.

While on FaceTime, Innes quickly took a screenshot, commemorating the moment and all Vejdani and his family had gone through on their long journey to a new country and a new life.

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Brianna Kudisch may be reached at bkudisch@njadvancemedia.com.
This past Sunday, the Christian community celebrated Pentecost and I am excited for this opportunity to share with you the significance of Pentecost and how this important event from 2,000 years ago is still relevant to our lives today.

The word Pentecost comes from the Greek word, Pentecoste which means 50th day. Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter and is a Christian festival that commemorates the gift of the Holy Spirit given to the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as described in Acts chapter 2.

The story of Pentecost is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. On the day of Pentecost, the apostles were gathered when suddenly a sound like a rushing wind filled the room and tongues of fire appeared above each of their heads. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in different languages, enabling them to communicate with people that were gathered there from all over the world. The apostles werent speaking in gibberish or an exclusive language that only insiders could understand but were empowered by the Holy Spirit to open the Gospel message to be heard and understood by everyone who was present in a way that made sense to them. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. (Acts 2:6).

This miraculous event marked the birth of the Christian church and the beginning of the apostles' mission to spread the gospel beyond Judaism to include all nations. It was a moment of great unity and understanding, as people from diverse backgrounds were able to hear and understand the message of Jesus Christ in their own language.

Pentecost serves as a reminder of the universality of the gospel message and the inclusive nature of the Christian faith. It challenges us to reach out to those who may be different from us and to share the love of Christ with all people, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, language, or anything else that separates us, recognizing our differences as blessings and as learning opportunities. Gods love for us knows no bounds!

Pentecost reminds us of the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives today. Just as the apostles were empowered by the Holy Spirit to boldly proclaim the gospel, we too are called to be witnesses of Christ in our own communities. The Holy Spirit equips us each with the gifts and abilities we need to serve God and our neighbors (ALL our neighbors), and empowers us to live lives of faith, love, and service. These gifts are different for each of us but are complementary rather than hierarchical. We each are empowered to do Gods work in this world as we are called by God through the Holy Spirit.

In a world that is often divided by language, culture, ideology, and so much more, Pentecost challenges us to seek unity and understanding through the power of the Holy Spirit. It calls us to be agents of reconciliation and peace, bridging the gaps that separate us and working towards a more just and inclusive society. Pentecost reminds us that despite our differences we can unite over common goals, do good for our community, understanding that together we can do so much more than we can separately.

As we celebrate the gifts of Pentecost, not just on Pentecost Sunday, but throughout the year, let us be mindful of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world around us. May we be inspired to embrace diversity, foster unity, and share the message of God's love with all people. Let us open our hearts to the work of the Holy Spirit and allow ourselves to be vessels of God's grace and mercy in the world.
By Alimat Aliyeva

South Korea has announced a record 26 trillion won ($19 billion) to support chip production, Azernews reports.

President Yun Seok said that a financial support program in the amount of 17 trillion won (12.5 billion US dollars) is planned through the State Road Development Bank.

"As we all know, semiconductors are an area where there is an allout national war. Victory or defeat depends on who can create advanced semiconductors," the South Korean president said at a meeting with top government officials.

Earlier, South Korean entrepreneurs called on the government to support the local technology industry. Because the United States and China have already allocated billions of dollars for technology development.
On Wednesday, the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry celebrated the addition of a truck driving range to Muscatine Community College with a ribbon cutting. Citing high demand for truck drivers, the college will provide the first truck driver training program in Muscatine. The program was made possible with over $875,000 in grants to Eastern Iowa Community Colleges to expand its commercial license program.
EDEN, N.C.  Courage triumphed over fear Tuesday when officers rescued a toddler who had fallen into the Dan River and pulled the 3-year-old to shore, an emotional Police Chief Paul Moore said during a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

I was coughing up river water, holding the boy up out of the water and he was not responsive at all, recalled Officer Tim Knight, who, along with Officer Josh Roberts, dove into the swollen 10-foot-deep river Tuesday afternoon. It was sheer instinct.

The officers, whom the chief dubbed true hometown heroes, entered the water in full uniform and were burdened with about 30 extra pounds from their boots and body armor.

They scrambled along the steep bank and located the youngster within minutes, the chief said. The child was roughly 150 yards downstream from Leaksville Landing, a river access point along Highway 87, floating face down and without a life vest.

Both treaded water during the ordeal while perching the tot above their heads.

The boy was treated at UNC Rockingham Health Care in Eden, North Carolina, and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Brenner Childrens Hospital in Winston-Salem.

On Wednesday, Moore praised his officers, as well firefighters and EMS workers, for delivering the child to the local hospital within 15 minutes of the 911 call for help.

Its almost unbelievable, said Assistant Chief Anthony Lovings, a police spokesman. He was completely unconscious when the officers brought him out. What it came down to was  as soon as they saw him, they jumped in  didnt ever think about it.

Police have not provided the names of the boy or his parents because the family has requested privacy, Lovings said.

The youngster and his family had not come to the landing to swim, so they werent wearing floatation devices. Later, the child plunged into the river from the landings metal grate work steps, prompting a frantic call for help.

When officers arrived around 12:45 p.m., they quickly located the floating tot.

Roberts reached him first. The water was over his head. He grabbed a limb to pull himself out of the water and elevate the child. He then handed the child to Knight, who swam the boy to shore.

Knight next passed the child to police Lt. Andy Johnson, who mounted a steep riverbank to get the toddler to stable ground where he and Eden firefighter Mike Farmer began CPR. Roberts and Knight followed up the hill and realized EMS workers could not access the remote spot.

So Roberts picked up the child and they take off running  their bodies are spent, Moore said of the 150-yard sprint. While running, Officer Roberts  his legs actually give out. Hes done. He falls to the ground.

Knight then grabbed the boy and ran the balance of the distance to hand the child to medics.

Patrol officers then cleared the roadway for EMS workers to take the child to UNC Rockingham Health Care. He was transported from there to the childrens hospital for more specialized care shortly afterward.

The chief estimated that first responders provided roughly seven minutes of resuscitation.

The accident comes just days before the busy Memorial Day holiday, which will likely draw thousands of area residents to rivers, lakes, ponds, pools and surf for celebrating.

Be aware when kids are around water, Knight said, and make sure they have floatation devices.
A former Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) staffer has been found guilty of stealing medical drugs from the health facility.

According to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Magdaline Wambui Nganga was caught at the gate by security while carrying medical drugs, including seven packets of Nepilet Nebivolon 5mg, two packets of Atacand Candesartan 8mg, two packets of AIRTAL 100mg, two packets of Sildenafil 25g, and one packet of Lamotrigine Lamictal 100mg.

Court papers state that the drugs are valued at Kes. 15,156.

Nganga faced two counts of stealing by a servant contrary to section 281 of the penal code and handling stolen property contrary to section 322(1) as read with section 322(2) of the penal code.

Milimani Chief Magistrate Hon. Susan Shitubi, delivering the verdict on Thursday, May 23, said that evidence showed the accused possessed the medical supplies by virtue of her employment.

The Court will sentence Magdaline Wambui Nganga on May 28, 2024.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswammad Nassir has imposed a total ban on the entry, sale, and consumption of Muguka in the county.

Speaking at Port Reitz Hospital after signing the executive order, Governor Nassir said Muguka is the leading cause of addiction in the region. He emphasized that many young people will continue to suffer if such drastic steps are not taken.

In the executive order dated May 22, Nassir stated that no motor vehicles carrying the products will be allowed entry into Mombasa. He also ordered all retail and wholesale outlets selling or distributing Muguka to close immediately.

The county boss explained that he made the decision in consultation with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (Nacada).

He highlighted that the scientific use of Muguka has been linked to mental health diseases and disabilities.

It leads to devastating health, social, economic, and environmental consequences and places burdens on minors, families, the poor, and county health systems, the order states.

Nassir stressed that these concerns take precedence over any commercial or business interests. He also announced that the county government will offer free rehabilitation and treatment to those addicted to the stimulant at various health facilities in the county.

Kilifi Governor Gideon Mungaro has also banned the products in his county, noting that it is spoiling children.

Speaking at public forums in Malindi, Governor Mungaro expressed concern over children as young as 10 years old consuming Muguka, calling it a threat to the younger generation.
President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto attended a State Dinner at the White House on Thursday night, hosted by the Bidens following President Joe Bidens invitation.

Kenya became the first African nation in nearly 15 years to be honored with a state dinner at the White House.

On Wednesday, May 22, U.S. First Lady Jill Biden unveiled the details of the dinner, which included a menu featuring butter-poached lobster and a white chocolate basket with banana ganache, raspberries, peaches, and candied lime zest.

Jill Biden mentioned that the elegant dinner would be hosted under the stars in a pavilion made almost entirely of glass, offering a view of the night sky.

We mark the 60th anniversary of the United States partnership with Kenya with an elegant dinner under the stars, in a pavilion made almost entirely of glass, looking up at our one sky. While, outside, night surrounds us, inside, guests will be brought together over the glow of candles, in a space saturated with warm pinks and reds, she said.

In the U.S., a state dinner represents one of the most glamorous events organized by the White House for a visiting head of government or reigning monarch, showcasing diplomatic unity.

For starters, President Ruto and the First Lady enjoyed chilled heirloom tomato soup with sourdough crisps and arbequina olive oil.

The black-tie event then moved on to fruitwood-smoked beef short ribs and butter-poached lobster with citrus butter, baby kale, and sweet corn puree, prepared by White House executive chef Cristeta Comerford and executive pastry chef Susie Morrison, the first women to hold those posts.

Dessert featured a white chocolate basket with banana ganache, raspberries, peaches, and candied lime zest.

Guests were also served three wines during dinner: a Hartford Court Chardonnay from the Four Hearts Vineyard, a pinot noir from St. Innocent Winery, and an Iron Horse Classic Vintage Brut sparkling wine.

Jill Biden announced that the night would include special performances to honor President and First Lady Rutos love of gospel and country music, featuring the Howard Gospel Choir and Brad Paisley.

As the guests departed, their paths were lit by the moon, symbolizing the warmth Jill Biden experienced during her visit to Kenya.

As guests leave their path illuminated by our one moon, I hope they will be filled with the same warmth I felt during my visits to Kenya  that of friendships that will endure and help create a bright and prosperous future, the First Lady said.

The planning for the state dinner, conducted by the First Ladys staff and the White House social office, begins months in advance.

Some photos of the dishes
Police authorities have arrested a constable from Karatu Police Station in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, after a loaded AK-47 rifle under his possession disappeared mysteriously on Tuesday.

The constable, Benson Otenda, was overseeing the report office on Monday night before handing over duties to a colleague the following morning around 6 am.

Otenda took his state-issued AK-47 rifle, serial number 5524595, to his quarters and reportedly placed it next to his bed before taking a long nap. Upon waking up, he discovered the rifle missing.

According to a police report documenting the incident, Otenda reported the loss after realizing he couldnt account for the rifle and its 30 rounds of ammunition.

It was reported by No.124987 PC Benson Otenda, that he was relieved from his place of duty today at the report office at 0605hrs and handed over to no.249946 PC Leonard Kimani, a police report indicated.

Otenda later proceeded to his house carrying his rifle AK 47 s/n. 5524595 without returning it to the armoury and placed it besides his bed and fell asleep. Upon waking up at around 1000hrs he could not find it and subsequently cannot account for the rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition.

An ongoing operation is underway to recover the lost rifle. The scene was visited by police commanders, and a search team was dispatched as part of the recovery efforts.

The scene was visited by CIPU commander, SCCIO and OCS Gatundu South. The sub-county team was later joined by county security team comprising the CPC, CIPU and CCIO, the police report added/

The constable was placed in custody pending further action.
President William Ruto concludes his high-profile visit to the United States with numerous deals signed alongside President Joe Biden.

Ruto returns to Kenya this weekend bringing commitments totaling over Kes.52 billion ($395.15M) from various U.S. departments and agencies to support Kenyas development projects.

The U.S. has allocated nearly Kes.5.3 billion ($40 million) to Kenya for democracy, human rights, and governance, and another Kes.93 million ($700,000) to support operationalizing the Public Benefits Organization Act.

USAID announced an additional Kes.173 million ($1.3 million) for the youth empowerment program aimed at strengthening political engagement at the subnational level, and Kes.80 million ($600,000) to advance disability inclusion.

America also plans to support Kenyas Anti-corruption efforts with Kes.66 million ($500,000) for a new Fiscal Integrity Program, and another Kes.66 million ($500,000) to expand the reach and effectiveness of anti-corruption advocacy.

To support the Government of Kenya to combat corruption, the Administration is providing Kes.33 million ($250,000) through the Global Accountability Program, and Kes.40 million ($300,000) to support Kenyas proposed Whistleblower Protection law to strengthen Kenyas anti-corruption legal architecture. In addition, USAID has provided Kes.358 million ($2.7 million) to support the improved enforcement of policy and laws that deal with fraud, waste, and abuse in the delivery of public services to Kenyan citizens, the White House stated.

Furthermore, the U.S goodie bag includes reforms in Kenyas electoral process, with Kes.199 million ($1.5 million) provided to support Kenyas electoral process by strengthening the election commission, political parties, and campaign finance.

Moreover, America will support Kenya in developing the digital superhighway to enable a holistic view of healthcare delivery. Kes.4.1 billion ($31 million) will be provided to build and deploy digital health solutions to support disease programs in Kenya.

The US announced a new Kes.929 million ($7 million) partnership to advance and strengthen the modernization and professionalization of Kenyas National Police Service.

Additionally, the United States of America will provide Kes.650 million ($4.9 million) in new funding for Kenya and other East African countries to improve cooperation and coordination in combating criminal networks and holding criminals accountable.

The Biden administration will also inject Kes.1.3 billion ($10 million) direct loan to Kenyan company Hewa Tele and two rounds of equity investment totaling Kes..531 million ($4 million) to Kasha Global.

Additionally, the U.S. will support the Kenyan education sector by providing Kes.66 million ($500,000) to support the development of Kenyan students, scientists, researchers, and engineers.

An additional Kes.40 billion ($300,000) will support womens entrepreneurship and gender equity in the Kenyan energy sector, with Kes.478 million ($3.6 million) committed to accelerating the connection of homes, businesses, and institutions in Kenya to cleaner electricity.

Furthermore, other investments will focus on hydropower projects and transitioning to zero-emissions vehicles in Kenya.

Kenyan-owned private companies have also received support. For example, a Kes.66 million ($500,000) technical assistance grant has been announced to build a proprietary credit scoring model to support Pezesha Africa Limited.

Additionally, a Kes.6.8 billion ($51 million) loan will be issued to asset financing platform M-KOPA to support smartphone receivables and cash loans, aimed at enhancing the affordability of M-KOPAs devices for low-income borrowers.
By Alimat Aliyeva

Kazakhstan and China have launched a test mode of transit cargo transportation to Europe via the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TMTM, Middle Corridor) from the Kuryk seaport to Baku, Azernews reports.

"A meeting of the Kazakh-Chinese joint commission on road transport was held in Aktau, within the framework of which, for the first time in history, a trial transit cargo transportation along the China-Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan-Georgia route through the seaports of Kuryk and Baku was launched," the agency reports.

In particular, according to the Ministry of Transport, the first three Chinese trucks weighing 80 tons, which left Urumqi, were loaded onto a ferry at the port of Kuryk on May 23 for further passage to Baku on the route China-Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan-Georgia.

The agreement signed last year with the Chinese side on road transport has become a key moment of mutually beneficial cooperation, opening up limitless opportunities and prospects for the further development of trade relations. For the first time in the history, vehicles of the two countries have access to directly travel to all major commercial cities of the parties and even make transit through the territories," Ali Altai, Chairman of the Committee on Road Transport and Transport Control of the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan, said at a meeting of the commission.

According to him, hundreds of millions of tons of cargo from China to Western countries are delivered by sea, in terms of up to 52 days, in a smaller volume, goods go by rail  in terms of up to 22 days. Thanks to the use of the Middle Corridor, vehicles can reduce up to 12 days, delivering cargo "door to door" without intermediate loading/ unloading.

The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route is an international transport corridor running through China, Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia and further to Turkiye and European countries.
By Alimat Aliyeva

The Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan and the Perm Region of Russia will develop a roadmap for expanding cooperation, covering industrial cooperation, education and science. These agreements were reached during negotiations between the delegation of Uzbekistan and the authorities of the Perm Region, Azernews reports.

According to the information, the governor of the Perm Territory Dmitry Makhonin noted that the roadmap will contribute to the localization of the region's production in the economic zones of Uzbekistan and support the supply of equipment for the country's oil and gas industry.

"This will help localize our production facilities in the economic zones of the Republic and will facilitate the supply of equipment for the country's oil and gas industry," Mahonin stressed.

Uzbek Energy Minister Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov noted that the signing of the roadmap will help increase the volume of mutual investments, strengthen trade ties and successfully develop joint projects in key industries.

Mirzamakhmudov added that Uzbekistan is interested in supplying high-tech products and organizing joint ventures not only in the oil and gas, but also in the chemical and textile industries.

"All necessary conditions have been created in Uzbekistan, including preferential treatment for enterprises in technoparks," the minister added.

The parties intend to sign the roadmap in the near future.
More than 140 students graduating as part of Emorys Class of 2024 were honored at a ceremony on May 11 for their achievements and their contributions to the university community. The event was hosted by Belonging and Community Justice (BCJ), a part of Campus Life. BCJ, which includes six affinity groups, promotes dynamic and cohesive learning by creating space for students individual, cultural and communal development.

The graduation celebration featured speakers and cultural traditions from the Asian Pacific Islander Desi-American, Black/African American (Modupe Dayo), First-Generation and Low and Limited-Income, and Latinx (CARAS) communities. More than 400 people attended and cheered on the honorees.

Each graduate received a representative stole placed on their shoulders by someone who has been a support for them, such as a parent, partner, friend or faculty member. The honorees could wear the stoles again at Commencement.

Previous student graduate recognitions

Earlier in the semester, the Graduating Women of Promise ceremony, held in conjunction with the annual Women of Excellence Awards, honored graduating women who have demonstrated leadership, inclusivity and a commitment to making Emory a better place for all.

The annual Lavender Graduation ceremony was held in conjunction with the Pride Awards. Graduating LGBTQIA+ students were honored and acknowledged for their achievements and contributions to the university.

- Photos by American Technologies.
By Alimat Aliyeva

The Japanese government has expanded the sanctions lists against the Russian Federation, once again accusing the Russian side of supplying weapons from the DPRK, Azernews reports.

According to the published document, one natural person and nine legal entities from Russia, two legal entities from Cyprus were added to the sanctions lists. In particular, Vladimir Mikheychik, CEO of the state-owned airline 224th Flight Detachment, fell under Japanese sanctions, suggesting the freezing of assets in case of their discovery.

The airline itself was also included in the sanctions lists along with the Ashuluk military training ground and the Russian Military Transport Aviation Command. As part of the sanctions against Russia, Japan has also imposed restrictions against the Cypriot companies IBEX Shipping and Azia Shipping.

In a statement, the Japanese Foreign Ministry once again accused the Russian Federation of purchasing weapons from the DPRK. Moscow has repeatedly and categorically rejected accusations by Western countries of illegal military-technical cooperation with Pyongyang.
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Steven H. Liang, associate professor in the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, and Kathryn M. Yount, Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Global Health, were named the 2024 recipients of the Albert E. Levy Award for Excellence in Scientific Research.

The Levy Award recognizes one junior and one senior Emory faculty member each year that are considered to be outstanding in their respective fields of research. Each year, the University Research Committee (URC) accepts nominates from Emory faculty at large to determine the recipients. The award was created by civic and academic activist Edith Levy Elsas while she was a member of the Emory University Board of Visitors in memory of her father, Albert E. Levy.

Originally overseen by Emory Universitys Sigma Xi, a scientific research honor society that encourages research communication across multiple scientific disciplines, the Levy Award program stopped for a period when the Emory chapter of Sigma Xi became inactive. In 2000, at the request of the benefactor, the Albert E. Levy Award was reinstated to be administered by the URC.

Each awardee receives a trophy and a contribution in research funds of $2,000.

Meet the 2024 award winners

Junior Faculty Award: Steven H. Liang

Steven H. Liang is an associate professor in the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences. Liang also holds multiple leadership positions within the Emory Center for Systems Imaging core, including an endowed directorship of radiochemistry, cyclotron facility and radiopharmacy services, as well as head of the Positron Emission Tomography Imaging Center, both in the Emory University School of Medicine.

Liangs research focuses on drug development and radiochemistry for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. His group has pioneered methods for the selective incorporation of radioactive fluorine atoms into neurodegeneration-related drug molecules to allow PET imaging of these compounds in the brain. A recent breakthrough was their development of a new PET drug that enables real-time observation of cholesterol breakdown in the brain. Given that altered cholesterol metabolism in the brain is associated with neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimers disease, Parkinsons disease and Huntingtons disease, this discovery is expected to greatly advance clinical neuroimaging.

The work of Liang has been recognized by numerous awards including the Berson-Yalow Award from the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. His groups work is supported by numerous National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants as well as industry contracts.

Senior Faculty Award: Kathryn M. Yount

Kathryn M. Yount holds the Asa Griggs Candler Professorship of Global Health and is a professor in Social, Behavioral, and Health Education Sciences in the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University. She is also a professor of sociology in the Emory College of Arts and Sciences.

Younts research has a global reach, spanning diverse regions including Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, South Asia, Southeast Asia and the United States. Her work focuses on utilizing cross-cultural measures to illustrate the positive correlation between enhanced womens empowerment and improved mental and nutritional health, increased child immunization rates and reduced mortality rates among girls.

A hallmark of her work, GlobalConsent, is a pioneering web-based program aimed at curbing sexually violent behavior among male undergraduates in Vietnam. It is the first program proven effective in middle-income countries and is now being scaled nationally with the support of the National Institute of Mental Health in partnership with six Vietnamese universities. Her comprehensive efforts have significantly contributed to the prevention of gender-based violence and the enhancement of health outcomes across diverse global regions.

With her work extensively published in top journals in the social sciences and public health, Younts research has garnered significant recognition. She is globally acknowledged as a leading scholar.
Health authorities are working to gather information on the spread of the H5N1 virus, or bird flu, in U.S. dairy cows  the first confirmation of the virus in cattle.

We have moved into new territory, says Thomas Gillespie, professor and chair of Emory Universitys Department of Environmental Sciences.

The dairy cow infections are simply the latest twist in a global pattern: since 2022, bird flu has been infecting a wide variety of mammals.

You can find this trend around the world, almost anywhere you look, Gillespie says. This virus has an extremely broad range of hosts that it is able to infect.

Gillespie is a disease ecologist, studying how pathogens jump across species in the environment. He is a leader in the One Health approach  considering the deep connections between the health of people, domesticated animals, wildlife and ecosystems  to build pandemic control and prevention.

Current risk to people is low

The avian influenza cases in cows have been mild. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed two human cases connected to the outbreak  one in Texas and one in Michigan. Both cases were mild and involved people who worked on a dairy farm.

The pasteurization process kills the H5N1 virus, and the CDC describes the current risk to the general public as low.

The H5N1 virus is known as avian influenza, or bird flu, because birds are its natural reservoir. Wild, migrating birds can spread H5N1 globally. The current version has been circulating since 2020 and has infected a greater diversity of bird species than past lineages.

The virus has been reported in birds in the United States since 2022. Poultry producers have culled millions of their animals to try to control the spread of the virus.

Massive die-offs of seals and sea lions

It has long been known that mammals can become infected with H5N1 when they eat infected birds or are exposed to environments contaminated with the virus. What is unprecedented is the current scale and variety of mammals that have been infected.

Most of these are likely dead-end cases, where a predator eats an infected bird and gets sick but doesnt spread the virus, Gillespie says.

He adds, however, that recent die-offs of thousands of elephant seals, sea lions and fur seals in South America caused by bird flu raises concerns about the possibility of mammal-to-mammal transmission.

Not enough surveillance is done in wildlife to know for sure how the virus is spreading, he says.

H5N1 has also been reported in foxes, otters, lynx, polecats and badgers in Europe and in raccoon dogs and foxes in Japan.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has recorded detections of H5N1 in 200 mammals in the United States since 2022, including a bottlenose dolphin, foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, skunks, harbor and grey seals, opossums, squirrels, minks, otters and black and brown bears.

Last December, a polar bear on Alaskas North Slope became the first of its species known to die of avian influenza. In 2023, the virus was also been detected for the first time in the Antarctic region  in birds, elephant seals and fur seals  raising fears for the health of the fragile ecosystem.

A long-term view of risks

Some of the species that are at risk for bird flu are already battling the stressors of climate change and loss of habitat, Gillespie says.

And each time H5N1 infects a new animal host, it gives the virus a chance to mix with other flu strains and rearrange its genetic material. Accumulating such mutations can change the virus in ways that make it more easily transmissible and more deadly  including to humans.

Pigs immune systems share similarities with humans, making swine especially efficient mixing bowls for viruses that can affect humans.

Gillespie cites deforestation and industrialized animal production as major drivers for the risk of pandemics as well as climate change.

Forests in tropical regions are rapidly degrading due to cattle ranching and the clearing of land for agricultural crops such as soybeans  which are mainly used as feed for chickens and pigs on industrial farms.

The resulting cheap meat that we buy does not reflect the true costs to the ecosystems that sustain us, Gillespie says. If we want to live sustainably, we need to cut down on the amount of animal products that we consume. That will be a win-win for human health and for planetary health.
Emory University School of Medicine researchers, in partnership with the University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC), have been awarded a five-year, $6 million award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) to conduct a study aimed at improving health outcomes for pregnant Black women. The study will assesspost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) screening approaches among pregnant Black women, a population at high risk for trauma-related mental health issues.

The multi-site trial will compare the effectiveness of two active screening interventions in improving PTSD symptoms, maternal perinatal care utilization, satisfaction with mental healthcare services and maternal health and birth-related outcomes for Black women. The research team aims to determine the best approach for screening for PTSD during prenatal visits at obstetrics clinics serving Black women with limited socioeconomic resources.

"Black women with limited socioeconomic resources face particularly high levels of trauma and related mental health problems, including PTSD," says co-principal investigator Abigail Powers Lott, PhD, associate professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine. "Pregnancy presents a critical opportunity to intervene and address PTSD, as it can have intergenerational impacts and is associated with adverse birth outcomes.

Lott is director of treatment research and education of the Grady Trauma Project (GTP), a large-scale interdisciplinary clinical research program focused on investigating the impact of trauma exposure and related mental health disorders in urban populations, particularly among disadvantaged communities.

Prior work by Lott and co-principal investigator, Briana Woods-Jaeger, PhD, associate professor at Emory Rollins School of Public Health (RSPH), laid the groundwork for this important comparative effectiveness trial. This study will be a collaboration between Lott at GTP and Woods-Jaegers THRIVE (Together promoting Health and Resilience through Interventions, Voice, & Equity) lab, where she serves as director.

The PCORI-funded study will recruit 804 trauma-exposed pregnant Black women ages 18 or older who are in their first trimester of pregnancy. The research team will collaborate with Grady Health System in Atlanta and Truman Medical Center in Kansas City, MO for participant recruitment and data collection.

Participants will be randomized to receive either a standardized brief screening for PTSD commonly used in medical clinic settings or Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). SBIRT is a 20- to 30-minute intervention led by a trained lay provider that includes standardized screening with validated measures, psychoeducation, motivational interviewing strategy components to promote awareness of psychological symptoms and engagement in relevant resources and coping skills training.

The studys primary outcome will be the change in PTSD symptoms, with secondary outcomes including perinatal care utilization, engagement in mental health care, preterm birth, infant birth weight and maternal morbidity.

"This trial has the potential to provide valuable insights into the implementation of PTSD screening in urban obstetrics clinics, ultimately advancing care for pregnant Black women nationwide," says Woods-Jaeger. "By identifying effective screening and intervention strategies, we hope to improve maternal mental health and reduce adverse birth outcomes in this vulnerable population."

A variety of stakeholders have been involved in the development of the project and will continue to provide input throughout the study. This includes the THRIVE community action board, which is comprised of Black mothers with lived experiences of trauma, healthcare providers, early childhood service providers, community advocates, healthcare administrators, insurance providers and current Black pregnant patients at participating clinics.

"We are committed to ensuring that our research is community-driven and culturally responsive," says Megan Lawley, MD, MPH, assistant professor in the Emory Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics (GYN/OB), a co-investigator on the project. "By actively involving stakeholders in the research process, we aim to address the unique needs of pregnant Black women and improve outcomes for both mothers and babies."

The study, titled "Comparing Two Screening Approaches for PTSD to Enhance Health Outcomes in Pregnant Black Women," will last from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2029. The findings hold promise in shaping national protocols and advancing care for pregnant Black women nationwide.

Emory collaborators on the study also include Melvin Livingston from RSPH and Sheree Boulet from GYN/OB. The UMKC investigators involved are Tiffany Ruffin and Traci Johnson.

For more information, please visit the Grady Trauma Project website.
During interrogation, the suspect revealed that he was contacted by website operators via WhatsApp. Expressing confusion, he stated, "I am unsure of how the proprietor of the website obtained my WhatsApp number."

The suspect confessed to installing a camera in the bathroom two years prior to secretly recording videos of his wife but claimed to have later removed it. He vehemently denied uploading any videos of his wife to the website, as reported by ARY News.

According to police statements, the suspect''s wife accused him of pressuring her into having relations with his friends. Even more distressing is her claim that he attempted to produce explicit videos involving their daughter.

Law enforcement officials are currently conducting investigations into the suspect''s mobile phone and laptop for further evidence.

Earlier, the District Central Police of Karachi apprehended the suspect, who purportedly claimed affiliation with the international secret organisation known as the Illuminati, allegedly involved in heinous crimes.

In a subsequent raid at the Rizvia Society apartment in the Nazimabad area, District Central Women Police arrested a fanatic named Tahir, rescuing his wife and four children.

Quoting the arrested individual, Erum Amjad, the Woman Station House Officer (SHO), stated, "The arrested accused is claiming to have associated with ''Illuminati''."

During preliminary investigations, the accused, a professional teacher, disclosed that he received tasks via email and was instructed to record and email back videos of the assigned tasks, ARY News reported. (ANI)
Amid a growing chorus for justice for the two IT professionals, who were mowed to death by a teen driving a Porsche; the Pune City Police on Thursday questioned the 17-year-old's grandfather in connection with the horrific hit-and-run incident. The minor ploughed his swanky race car into the two IT professionals, who were travelling on a bike, killing them on the spot. The Mumbai Crime Branch, which is probing the hit-and-run case, summoned the grandfather of the accused teen in a bid to grill him jointly with the latter's father, a police officer added. The sleuths also summoned the accused teen's driver and friend to piece together the sequence of events on the night before the hit-and-run incident, the officer informed. According to senior officials, all four were grilled in unison by an officer of DCP rank. Officials in the Crime Branch confirmed that the police were bidding to make the driver a witness in the case, as on the night of the incident, after the accused left the bar after a binging session with friends, the latter had asked the teen to take the passenger seat and let him drive. However, the juvenile called his father, who later rang up the driver, asking him to let his son drive the Porsche. The sleuths also confirmed to have seized the mobile phone of the accused teen's father, adding that they were in the process of checking his call details. After the questioning on Thursday, the police asked the juvenile's grandparent to appear for questioning again before the Crime Branch. The teen's father, the bar owners as well as the manager, who are currently in police custody, were being subjected to intense grilling before the term of their custody expires on Friday. They are to be produced before a court, which would decide on an extension of custody for leads in the case. Two young IT professionals from Madhya Pradesh, identified as Ashwini Koshta and Aneesh Awadhia, were killed after the teen gored his Porsche into them in Pune's Kalyani Nagar on the night of May 19. (ANI)
Following the murder case of Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar in Kolkata and the hacking to death of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker in Nandigram, party MP Dilip Ghosh said that no one is safe in West Bengal be it Indians or those from abroad. "The way a 56 year old woman was killed shows the kind of security women enjoy in West Bengal. Moreover, a Bangladesh MP who had come here for treatment was killed. No one in West Bengal, whether Indian or from abroad, men or women, in localities, villages or in cities is safe," Ghosh said at a press conference at Bardhaman on Friday. Ghosh, who is the MP from Medinipur constituency claimed that such incidents of violence are coming to the fore because the Trinamool knows that there is no chance for its victory in the Lok Sabha elections. "Disturbances are being reported wherever elections are being held. This is because there is no chance for the TMC to win. They are trying to instill fear among voters. But they will not be successful. This is the last time violence is being reported in West Bengal. No incident of violence will be reported any more," the BJP leader said. Defending the Election Commission, Ghosh said that maintaining law and order in the state is not the job of the poll body but the police and the local authorities. "Since the Election Commission is vigilant every person has voted. No one can complain that he has not been able to vote. But it is not the duty of the Election Commission to maintain law and order. Police and the authorities are in charge. Are they sleeping?" he said. Meanwhile, security personnel have been deployed in Nandigram at Purba Medinipur after a BJP party worker died in an attack by miscreants on a few houses the day before yesterday. Local party workers claimed that the attack was carried out by Trinamool Congess workers. Polling for the parliamentary elections has already been conducted in five phases and the voting for the remaining two phases will be held on May 25 and June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4. In the sixth phase, polling will be held on May 25 in Tamluk, Kanthi, Ghatal, Jhargram, Medinipur, Purulia, Bankura, and Bishnupur. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to pass any direction on a plea seeking the uploading of Form 17C data on the Election Commission of India website and publication of booth-wise voter turnout data. A bench of Justices Dipankar Dutta and Satish Chandra Sharma refused to grant any interim relief to petitioners and said it could not interrupt the polls. The bench said that of the seven-phase elections, five phases are over, and the sixth phase is scheduled for Saturday. The "hands-off" approach is needed in the middle of the election process, observed the apex court while adjourning the application. The bench told the petitioner that the interim prayer raised in the present application was the same as of the petition pending before it since 2019. "Prima facie we are not inclined to grant any interim relief since prayer A of the 2019 petition is similar to prayer B of the 2024 application. List the interim plea after (summer) vacation," ordered the bench. The apex court clarified that it has not expressed any opinion on the merits of the case apart from the prima facie view. The apex court was hearing an application filed by the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) seeking disclosure of final authenticated data of voter turnout in all polling stations including the number of votes polled in the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 within 48 hours of the polling. During the hearing today, senior advocate Maninder Singh, representing the Election Commission of India (ECI), said that ADR's application was based on "unfounded suspicions" and "false". Petitions like these are responsible for reducing the voter turnout because of the "continuous questioning of the process", said Singh. He said such kind of attitude is causing damage to the public interest by always putting a question mark on the sanctity of the elections. Earlier, ECI had filed an affidavit before the top court and said that voter turnout data based on Form 17C (records of votes polled in each polling station) will cause confusion among voters as it will also include postal ballot counts. The ECI had contended that there is no legal right that can be claimed towards publishing final authenticated data of voter turnout in all polling stations. On May 17, the Supreme Court asked ECI to file its response to the application seeking direction to immediately upload accounts of votes recorded at all polling stations after the close of polling of each phase. The NGO ADR alleged an inordinate delay in the publication of voter turnout data for the first two phases of polling in the elections. The application, besides the delay in publishing the voter turnout details, said there was a sharp spike in figures from the initial voter turnout percentages released by the Election Commission. It sought a direction to the Election Commission to provide tabulated polling station-wise data in absolute figures of the number of votes polled as recorded, in Form 17C Part- I, after each phase of polling in the ongoing 2024 Lok Sabha elections and also a tabulation of constituency-wise figures of voter turnout in absolute numbers in the on-going 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It further asked for uploading on the ECI website the scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part- II which contained the candidate-wise result of counting after the compilation of results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The application said the voter turnout data for the first two phases of the Lok Sabha elections were published by the ECI on April 30, after 11 days of the first phase of polling held on April 19 and four days after the second phase of polling held on April 26. It said that the data published by the ECI in its April 30 press release showed a sharp increase (by about 5-6 per cent) from the initial percentages announced by it on the polling day. The NGO pointed out the data published in the press release by the ECI on April 30, 2024 (Phase I voter turnout- 66.14 per cent and Phase II voter turnout - 66.71 per cent) when compared with the initial date of April 19, 2024, and April 26, 2024 respectively showed an increase of nearly 6 per cent in the Phase I data and increase of approximately 5.75 per cent in the Phase II data. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday declared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already secured 310 seats by the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections and criticized the opposition stating that they have been decimated. "Modi ji has already won 310 seats till the 5th phase of Lok Sabha election. Lalu and Rahul have been completely wiped out. The arrogant alliance in Bihar will not even be able to open its account this time," Shah proclaimed during a public rally in Bihar's Arrah on Friday. Shah criticized the Congress and its allies for trying to intimidate the citizens with threats involving Pakistan and said that the BJP is not afraid of anything. Talking about PoJK Shah said that we will get it back at any cost. "These Congress leaders, Lalu ji, this arrogant alliance tries to scare us by saying that Pakistan has an atom bomb and to not talk about PoK (Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir). I have come to tell Lalu Yadav and his company that we, the BJP, are not afraid of Pakistan's atom bomb," Shah said. "PoK (Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir) is ours, and we will take it. This is the BJP's resolve," Shah added. Highlighting the abrogation of Article 370, Shah credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with ending terrorism in the region. "For years, this Congress party nurtured Article 370 like a child. On August 5, 2019, PM Modi abolished Article 370 and erased the mark of terrorism from this country forever," Shah said. Shah also emphasized the government's success in combating Naxalism, claiming that states such as Jharkhand, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra are now free from the menace. "And I say, if you elect Modi ji for the third time, we will uproot Naxalism from Chhattisgarh as well," he promised. Addressing the issue of the Ram temple, Shah accused Congress and Lalu Prasad Yadav of obstructing its construction for decades. "This Congress party and Lalu ji blocked the Ram temple for 70 years. You made Modi ji the PM for the second time, and in just five years, Modi ji won the case, performed the ground-breaking ceremony, and in January he successfully did the Pran Pratishtha ceremony," Shah said. Shah condemned the opposition's approach to reservations, alleging that they sought to dilute benefits meant for backward classes. He especially highlighted the recent Calcutta High Court decision to cancel all Other Backward Class (OBC) certificates issued in West Bengal post-2010. "Do you want the jungle raj of Lalu or the welfare of the poor under PM Modi? The Congress party, Lalu Prasad Yadav, and Mamta Banerjee want to steal the reservations of our backward classes. In Karnataka, they gave 5% reservation to Muslims, in Hyderabad they gave 4% reservation to Muslims, and Mamta Banerjee left 180 castes. Yesterday, the Calcutta High Court put a stop to this unconstitutional reservation in Bengal. As long as PM Modi is there, we will not let anyone touch the reservations of Dalits, Adivasis, and backward classes. If you help BJP cross 400 seats, we will revoke the Muslim reservation and give it to the backward classes," Shah said. Shah attacked Lalu Prasad Yadav for perpetuating "jungle raj" and nepotism in Bihar stating that he had no place for the backward classes or the Yadavs. "Once upon a time, Lalu ji Here (in Bihar) used to talk about 'Tel pilavan, lathiya ghumavan' and the rule of strongmen. Do you want such a regime again in Arrah? Do you want such a jungle raj again? As long as Narendra Modi is there, Jungle Raj cannot come to Bihar. Lalu ji has spent his entire life working for his family. The Yadav community is under the wrong impression that Lalu ji works for them. Lalu made both his sons (Tej Pratap Yadav and Tejaswi Yadav) ministers in Bihar, one a Rajya Sabha member, and another an MP. He made Rabri Devi the CM. Lalu ji has no place for the backward classes or the Yadavs," Shah said. Arrah Lok Sabha constituency is one of the 40 Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar. It is comprised of 7 assembly segments Sandesh, Barhara, Arrah, Tarari, Jagdishpur, Shahpur and Agiaon. Election in Ara will be held in the seventh phase on June 1. From the Arrah Lok Sabha Constituency Bharatiya Janata Party fielded Union Minister R K Singh and the Communist Party Of India (Marxist) fielded Sudama Prasad as the INDIA bloc candidate. Elections in Bihar are contested in all seven phases. With 40 Lok Sabha constituencies, the fourth highest among all States and Union Territories, Bihar holds a crucial position in shaping Indian politics. RJD from the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance), the opposition coalition in Bihar, will contest 26 out of the state's 40 Lok Sabha seats. As part of the NDA, the BJP and JD (U) will contest for 17 and 16 seats, respectively. The results of the Lok Sabha elections will be declared on June 4th. (ANI)
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mandi, BJP leader and candidate Kangana Ranaut addressed a public meeting where she expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work under PM Modi's leadership. She also applauded him for his developmental work. Kangana stated, "When Bollywood considered me an outsider and mocked my English. Then, the world's biggest party, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the world's biggest leader, PM Modi, chose me to serve the people of Mandi and work for their welfare. They chose a 'Pahadi Beti' for this work. This fills us with pride and eminence. I bow in respect before our PM Narendra Modi on behalf of all women and citizens of Himachal." "The day has arrived to work under the guidance of PM Modi. Hailing PM Modi is like showing a candle to the sun himself. The technical and modern developmental works he has done are tremendous. Now I'm too part of his team and committed to the developmental works for Mandi as a party worker." Highlighting PM Modi's three main agendas for Himachal, Kangana said, "Right now, PM Modi has three main agendas for the people of Himachal, it includes roads, education and health, upon which our former CM Jairam Thakur, Gadkari Ji and various leaders have worked and achieved milestones. If elected, I'll also focus on these three agendas and modern developmental works for the constituency. I will work more than my efficiency for our people." While concluding her speech, Kangana expressed her ambition to win the Parliamentarian Award of the Year: "I have won four National Awards based on my capabilities during both BJP and Congress tenures. I assure you, if I win these elections, I will bring the Parliamentarian Award of the Year to the people of Mandi in the very first year." Earlier, on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, where he sharply criticised the Congress party's employment and reservation policies in the state. The Prime Minister accused the Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress in Himachal Pradesh of having shut the doors of development by a "Talabaaz" government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a huge crowd in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, seeking blessings for the BJP government's third term and outlining his vision for a stronger India and developed Himachal Pradesh. Ab ki Baar "Modi Sarkaar" the crowd chanted in Unison behind Narendra Modi as he rallied support from the voters. Notably, polling in Himachal is scheduled for June 1. It will not only pit candidates vying for Lok Sabha membership from four seats but also elect members for six assembly seats that fell vacant following the resignation and switchover of dissident Congress lawmakers. The BJP, which won all four Lok Sabha constituencies in the state in the 2019 elections, is eyeing an encore this time. (ANI)
Laman Ismayilova

An international conference on "Archaeological tourism and sustainable management" has been held in Baku, Azernews reports.

The event was organized by the State Tourism Agency in partnership with the Institute of Archeology and Ateshgah State Historical-Architectural Reserve.

Deputy Chairman of the State Tourism Agency Azadeh Huseynova said that holding an event on this topic for the first time in Azerbaijan is very important from the point of view of both tourism and the promotion of our cultural heritage and history.

Azadeh Huseynova spoke about the scientific researches and archeological excavations carried out in the historical reserves with the support of the State Tourism Agency, as well as rare finds. He expressed his belief that the conference will be one of the important steps taken towards the full realization of Azerbaijan's archeological tourism potential, a useful exchange of ideas on the application of Azerbaijan's heritage monuments in tourism.

Deputy Culture Minister Saadat Yusifova noted that great attention and care is paid to the research of archaeological monuments and material and cultural heritage in Azerbaijan.

She underlined that as a result of extensive archaeological excavations conducted in our country, hundreds of monuments and thousands of material and culture samples related to the ancient history of Azerbaijan were discovered and these samples were preserved.

Chairman of the Management Board of the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Shahin Seyidzadeh informed about the new methods used in the protection of ancient monuments and cultural heritage in the historical center of the capital.

"Icherisheher and Gala Reserves, which are considered a rare gem of Azerbaijani architecture and culture, are always at the center of attention of our state. The inclusion of Icherisheher, the most famous example of the Shirvan-Absheron school of architecture, into the UNESCO World Heritage List once again confirms the contribution of the Azerbaijani people to human culture. As an administration, our main goal is to ensure the uniqueness and longevity of historical architectural monuments," said Shahin Seyidzadeh.

Head of the State Service for Cultural Heritage Conservation, Development and Rehabilitation Sabina Hajiyeva informed the guests about the existing archaeological architectural monuments in our country and the work done in the direction of their protection and restoration.

Professor Mehmet Ozdo?an of the Faculty of Archeology of Istanbul University emphasized that this international conference will be effective in terms of exchange of experience and knowledge.

Later, a short film dedicated to the archaeological heritage of Azerbaijan was shown.

Chairman of SEBA (Seoul-Baku) Azerbaijan-Korea Cultural Exchange Association Public Union, Doctor of Philosophy in Biology Ruhangiz Heydarova hailed the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and South Korea in all fields.

She drew attention to the implementation of various projects in Azerbaijan and South Korea by the Association, which makes important contributions to the development of cultural relations between the two nations.

The conference aims to study the most advanced practices in the direction of archaeological tourism and to discuss ways of applying them to monuments in Azerbaijan.

About 15 experts from the USA, Great Britain, Italy, Israel, Germany, Turkiye and other countries are participating in the conference.

More than 20 reports will be presented during two days at this conference attended by the leaders of the world's leading archaeological parks and representatives of international organizations such as ICOMOS.

Also, an outdoor exhibition on "Experimental Archeology" will be organized in the territory of the Ateshgah State Historical-Architectural Reserve.

Here, the visitors of the reserve and tourists can watch the Paleolithic tent and observe the various occupations of primitive people, stone, horn, wood, etc., and have a chance to practice the ways of making work tools from materials and obtaining fire.
Exuding confidence in Bharatiya Janata Party's third consecutive win in the Lok Sabha polls, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the BJP would be making huge strides in the southern states while doubling its hold on the northern states. Trashing Opposition parties' claim that BJP will be 'Dakshin mein saaf aur uttar mein half' (rout in the south, and half in the north), Jaishankar said that the Modi government will return to power with an even bigger majority. "I think from our point of view...for us, it (BJP) would be dakshin mein double (twice in the south), and for the Opposition, I would say uttar mein even more trouble," he stated. On being asked about BJP's '400 paar' slogan, Jaishankar acknowledged that this is an 'ambitious target' but said that the number has not been floated just like that, and there is a huge calculation behind it. He added that BJP leaders were advised to visit constituencies the party hadn't won in 2019, and look into what changes need to be made and what needs to be done for winning those seats. "This is the BJP you are talking about. There is a kind of process, an exercise out of which an outcome is produced...we had actually done this exercise, which were the seats we did not win in the 2019 election, what should we do to try and win those seats? Among them, what looks more likely? What are the changes we need to make?" the EAM further stated. Prime Minister Modi and other party leaders have claimed that BJP would win 370 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will win over 400 seats. Further affirming confidence in BJP's strong performance in the polls, the EAM said that BJP is going to improve its tally in Bengal, Odisha, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Punjab. He also cited his visits to several states such as Kerala, Odisha for the election campaign, where Jaishankar said he received a "very strong" upsurge and enthusiasm. "I can see definitely in the South much, much greater support and much greater enthusiasm than I have ever seen," he said. "I think we will definitely pick up many more seats in the south...we feel very confident that in Bengal, in Odisha, in Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, we will, my sense is Punjab, we will pick up what is UP. So look, if anybody who sits with the numbers, I think there is a calculation out there," Jaishankar added. Regarding the Opposition's predictions of seats in the elections, the EAM pointed out that these parties are not "great election predictors". He also made an apparent reference to the case of Puri, where the Congress candidate withdrew nomination and Surat, where the BJP candidate won unopposed. "I can go to their own predictions at various elections, including the last elections. Please look at what they said and what actually happened. So, they're not exactly great election result predictors," Jaishankar said. "Obviously, in the middle of an election, if a set of parties are losing, what can they tell people...These are parties, many of them, either candidates have left the field. I mean, forget about supporters coming." The Lok Sabha elections are being held across seven phases. While the first five phases are over, the remaining two phases are scheduled on May 25 and June 1. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP is aiming to return to power for a third straight term, the Opposition under the umbrella of the INDIA bloc is trying to wrest power from the ruling party. (ANI)
In the case of Pune car accident that killed two IT professionals on May 19, advocate Asim Saraode said the matter is not very difficult according to the point of view of law and it is a very easy case to get bail. Speaking with ANI, advocate Asim Saraode said, "This is not a very difficult case according to the point of view of the law. There are some emotions and human rights violations involved. The rash negligent driving has killed two persons and that is a very serious issue." He added further, "But from the point of view of law, this is a very easy case to get bail. The police claim they need to investigate and analyse the DCR and the driver needs to be investigated because he has been arrested today. Other reasons were not new so the court has not considered the request and sent the accused to the magisterial custody till June 7..." Meanwhile, the Pune Commissioner of Police on Friday assured that the accused minor who was in his "senses" at the time of accident "will be punished". "We are investigating both the case minutely and with full sensitivity. We are making a watertight case. The allegations of any preferential treatment given to the Minor are being investigated by an ACP rank officer...The victim will get justice and the accused will be punished," Pune Commissioner of Police, Amitesh Kumar told reporters here. The Pune Police commissioner said that efforts were on to try the minor accused as an adult. "We have started the process of appointing a special counsel in the case so that our side should be kept strongly in the case in court. Police are on the stringent way to handle this case," CP Kumar added. CP Kumar also asserted that the Police had accessed the CCTV footage of the accused drinking liquor in the pub (before the accident). "We have CCTV footage of him drinking liquor in the pub... The point of saying this is that our case is not alone depending on the blood report, we have other evidence also. He (the minor accused) was in his senses. It was not as if all of them were so drunk that they could not understand anything. They had full knowledge that due to their conduct, an incident like section 304 could happen...," he added. The Pune City Police on Thursday questioned the 17-year-old's grandfather in connection with the horrific hit-and-run incident. The minor ploughed his swanky Porsche into the two IT professionals, who were travelling on a bike, killing them on the spot. Two young IT professionals from Madhya Pradesh, identified as Ashwini Koshta and Aneesh Awadhia, were killed in the accident on the night of May 19. (ANI)
The Capital Development Authority demolished a portion of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) central secretariat in Islamabad over a "violation of building rules", Geo News reported, adding that the Imran Khan-founded party came down heavily on the CDA over its action. In a statement, the CDA said its anti-encroachment team launched an operation on Thursday to remove illegal construction and encroachment. The operation started around 11.30 pm (local time) and ended in an hour. The CDA said encroachment by a 'political party' was being removed, adding that the plot was allotted in the name of a person identified as Sartaj Ali. The CDA said an additional floor was built on the plot in violation of the building rules, according to Geo News. The government body said it had issued notices to PTI but to no avail. As the operation was being conducted, the party founded by former PM Imran Khan urged its workers to immediately arrive at the secretariat. The PTI said that the government began demolishing the office in an "illegal and unjust manner." While the CDA said that it had issued several notices to PTI, the party chairman, Barrister Gohar Khan, said they had not received any orders from the CDA. Khan said that CDA officials were asked to provide documents about the operation, however, they were unable to produce them. He stated, "If there had been any encroachments and they had informed us about them earlier, we would have removed them ourselves." Speaking to reporters outside the office, PTI secretary-general Omar Ayub took a swipe at the CDA, stressing that the party would raise the issue of the CDA in the assembly, according to Geo News report. Ayub said, "The PTI condemns the CDA action in the strongest terms." He stressed that the city administration began the operation at night without prior notice. He also added that police authorities arrested PTI leader Amir Mughal, Geo News reported. After the completion of the operation, the CDA officials sealed the PTI's central office and pasted the order on it. During the operation, PTI activists resisted CDA's attempts to demolish the office, resulting in some party workers being arrested by Islamabad's authorities. In a statement shared on X, PTI Islamabad stated, "Late night armed invasion and vandalism of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf central office Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf strongly condemns the invasion of the biggest political party of the country by the mandate thief government in the dark of night. Reiterating our commitment not to bow down to intimidation, lawlessness and blind use of force and not to give up in any way from the agenda of true freedom." "The mandate thief and his followers are shocked to see their end in front of their eyes. Tehreek-e-Insaf spokesperson The illegal invasion of the central secretariat of Tehreek-e-Insaf is a reflection of the fear within them. Fools are considering our unwavering commitment to the constitution and law and our determination to carry forward the political struggle in a peaceful manner as our weakness," it added. (ANI)
New York [US], May 24 (ANI/WAM): Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE''s Minister of Economy, held a meeting with Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City, on the sidelines of his official visit to the United States. The meeting explored the strengthening of economic collaboration in areas of shared interest, particularly the new economy, fintech, clean energy, green economy, entrepreneurship, tourism, transportation, and circular economy. Bin Touq said that the UAE and the US enjoy robust and advanced strategic ties across various domains, particularly in the economic and investment sectors. He attributed this to the directives and vision of both leaderships and highlighted the two countries'' shared aspirations to embrace innovative and adaptable economic models. During the meeting, Bin Touq emphasised that both countries possess significant economic resources and potential, as well as a strategic geographical location that facilitates access to numerous strategic markets at the regional and global levels. The economic relations between the UAE and the state of New York are also continuously evolving, and there is a strong commitment to further exploring cooperation in new and key economic sectors to foster sustainable partnerships that support the shared interests and goals of both parties. He underscored that the meeting marks a significant milestone in strengthening joint efforts to explore emerging opportunities and expand the scope of existing cooperation. The meeting explored the potential for enhancing economic relations and fostering better communication between the UAE and the American private sector. These efforts will create new avenues for growth, particularly considering the promising and diverse opportunities and enablers available in the markets of both countries. Furthermore, they highlighted the significance of enhancing cooperation in economic affairs that facilitate the transition towards a digital economy and combat financial crimes, in line with the economic policies of both nations. Bin Touq emphasised the UAE''s vision to improve economic openness and forge productive partnerships with international markets. He highlighted the UAE''s crucial role in supporting major economic blocs that are shaping the global economic landscape. This is particularly facilitated by the UAE''s standing as a competitive economic hub, which is connected to over 400 cities around the world through direct routes. Additionally, the UAE has the largest shipping line network that spans 88 ports globally and benefits from its strategic location as a link between the East and West. The Minister of Economy apprised Mayor Adams of the trade and investment initiatives implemented by the UAE under the ''Projects of the 50'' and the UAE Centennial Plan 2071. These initiatives are designed to bolster the country''s standing in the global economy by offering attractive investment incentives within the UAE''s thriving economic landscape. The comprehensive development of economic legislation, which includes the granting of 100 per cent foreign ownership of companies, flexible tax policies, and simplified processes for establishing businesses, further cements the UAE''s position as a global hub for business and investment. (ANI/WAM)
A top Indian official, Kamal Kishore started his term as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's special representative for disaster risk reduction. On May 20, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) welcomed the arrival of Kishore, who started his term as the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Disaster Risk Reduction and the head of UNDRR. "The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) welcomed on 20 May the arrival of Mr. Kamal Kishore, who started his term as the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Head of UNDRR," the UNDRR announced in a statement. Kamal Kishore succeeds Mami Mizutori of Japan, according to the UNDRR statement. On March 27, Antonio Guterres announced the appointment of Kamal Kishore as Assistant Secretary-General and Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). Kishore emphasised that UNDRR plays an important role in drawing together global efforts to reduce disaster risks in the face of increasing vulnerabilities. Kamal Kishore said that he was looking forward to building on the progress made to date. "UNDRR's ambition matches the scale of the problem," he said. He also praised Mami Mizutori for her leadership and expressed gratitude to UNDRR Director, Paola Albrito, for serving as the Acting SRSG prior to his arrival. Kamal Kishore has nearly 30 years of experience in disaster risk reduction at the global, regional, national, and local levels, having worked in government, the United Nations, and civil society organisations, according to the UNDRR statement. Since 2015, he has served as Head of the Department of India's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). He also led the Group of 20 (G20) Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction under India's G20 presidency. Before joining NDMA, Kishore spent nearly 13 years with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Geneva, New Delhi, and New York. During this time, he led global advocacy to integrate disaster resilience concerns into the Sustainable Development Goals and a global team of disaster risk reduction advisers to support UNDP programme countries, according to the statement. Before joining the UNDP, he served as director of Information and Research, and manager of the Extreme Climate Events Programme covering Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam at the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre in Bangkok from 1996 to 2002, according to the statement. An architect at the Action Research Unit for Development in New Delhi from 1992 to 1994, he worked on post-earthquake reconstruction projects. (ANI)
Amid the violence that has gripped Bishkek, the family members of Ayesha Shirin Roy, a girl from Gaurela Pendra Marwahi, who is stuck in Kyrgyzstan, said their niece is scared by the prevailing unrest and wants to return to her homeland. Her family members said they haven't been able to establish contact with her. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Susanna Roy, Ayesha's aunt said, "My niece lives there. She is a fourth-year MBBS student. She is caught up in the prevailing violence and riots and is spending anxious days. Earlier, we would often stay in touch with her over the phone. However, after the prevailing cycle of violence erupted, we spoke last night but there has been no contact since 5 in the morning." "She (Ayesha Shirin Roy) said they do not have any information about what is happening outside as they are being sheltered under tight security. She said: 'please call me back. I am very scared as situation is getting worse by the day. So, please use all means to establish contact with me'," Sussana added. She said her niece and other boarders at the hostel have been moved to a bunker as the hostel received information that it could come under attack. "Amid these fights, riots, the hostel received information that it could be attacked. So, the dean shifted all the boarders to a bunker at another place where they could stay safe. The madam there has been ensuring the students' safety," she said. Also speaking to ANI on Thursday, Ayesha Shirin Roy's uncle said they had spoken to her yesterday but were unable to contact her now. "We spoke to her yesterday night. We are worried as we have been trying to contact her since morning today but haven't been able to." Asked whether they are satisfied with the security provided to her, he said, "We are not fully satisfied. However, the university has provided security to her and fellow boarders. Security guards are fewer and rioters on the streets more amid the prevailing unrest. They are getting food only once a day. The outside supply of their food is being hampered. They are facing difficulties in sourcing food. If they get food from outside, the rioters might sense their presence and attacks might follow." He said they have urged the collector to take their worries to the authorities concerned and even spoke to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, seeking his intervention in the matter. "We have appealed to the Collector Madam here. After we took our worries to the CM, he spoke to my niece over there and assured her that the government would do everything to bring her back at the earliest. In Bishkek, violent clashes have broken out among student groups, with reports indicating the use of batons by attackers. International students have been wounded after attackers forcibly entered hostel rooms.Every year, a large number of Indian students join medical and other universities in Kyrgyzstan for further studies. At the moment, about 17,000 Indian students are in the country spread across many cities but most of them are in Bishkek, according to Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan press release. Following the situation, the Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan also shared an update that it has been working actively with the universities and senior government functionaries to address the concerns of the Indian students. Two helplines 0555710041 and 0555005538 have been functional 24x7 where students can continue to reach out to the Embassy for all kinds of assistance. Students and their families were urged not to pay attention to rumours being spread by some mischievous elements. However, the Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, on Thursday said that the situation in Bishkek has returned to normal. In a post on X, the embassy stated, "Situation in and around Bishkek is normal and stable today. Flights to India are operational. Embassy is in contact with Medical Universities in Kyrgyzstan to address concerns of Indian students. They can reach out to the Embassy for any assistance at 0555710041 and 0555005538." "The Embassy has been concerned at the recent incidents of violence against foreign students in Bishkek. However, due to swift action by the Kyrgyz authorities, the situation in Bishkek has returned to normal," the Embassy of India in Kyrgyzstan said in a release. (ANI)
As China launched its two-day-long military drills, Taiwan president Lai Ching-te pledged to stand side by side with the military and safeguard Taiwan, reported Focus Taiwan. Taiwan's president vowed this during a visit to a Marine base on Thursday afternoon, hours after China launched two days of military exercises surrounding Taiwan. "My responsibility is to safeguard the nation and ensure the safety of all citizens," Lai said as he visited the 66th brigade of the Marine Corps in Taoyuan for the first time in his capacity as the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces. In the face of "external challenges and threats, we will continue to defend the values of freedom and democracy, and protect regional peace and stability," Lai said, noting that he would "stand alongside" all military personnel and "protect national security." Lai further assured all civilians as he expressed confidence in the military's ability to stand firm at their posts and work to ensure national security, Focus Taiwan reported. He reiterated his commitment to continue to push for defence reforms, strengthen the country's defence capabilities, and ensure better care for all military personnel. However, Lai did not directly comment on the previously unannounced military exercises launched by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Thursday morning. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) began a series of joint military exercises in the Taiwan Strait, the north, south and east of Taiwan Island, and the areas around the islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin" from 7:45 am on Thursday, Xinhua reported. Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin are all Taiwan-controlled territories in the Taiwan Strait close to China's southeast coast, Focus Taiwan reported. Spokesperson for the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command, Naval Senior Captain Li Xi, said that the exercises were intended as "strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces and a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces," without elaborating. According to China's state broadcaster CCTV, as part of the drills, dozens of Chinese fighter jets carrying live ammunition carried out mock strikes against "high-value military targets" of the "enemy" alongside destroyers, frigates and missile speedboats. (ANI)
China commenced its second day of military exercises around Taiwan on Friday, with a focus on testing its capacity to "seize power" and control strategic regions, actions perceived as a response to Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te's recent inauguration, Channel News Asia reported. The drills, spanning the Taiwan Strait and areas adjacent to Taiwan-controlled islands near China's coast, commenced just days after Lai's assumption of office. China, considering Taiwan as its integral territory and labelling Lai as a "separatist," criticised his inaugural address, where he called upon Beijing to cease its threats, emphasising that both sides of the strait are independent entities. China's People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command stated that its forces continued with the exercises named "Joint Sword - 2024A" on Friday, aimed at assessing their capability to "jointly seize power, launch joint attacks, and occupy key areas," as reported by Channel News Asia. Despite Lai's repeated offers for dialogue with China, he has been met with refusal. Lai asserts that Taiwan's future should be determined solely by its people, rejecting Beijing's claims of sovereignty over the island. In response to the ongoing military manoeuvers, the United Nations urged all parties to exercise restraint, while the United States, Taiwan's staunch ally and military supporter, strongly called upon China to act with moderation. China's assertion of Taiwan's sovereignty and its pledge to unify the democratic island, even through force if necessary, remain consistent. The drills conducted on Thursday and Friday entail aircraft and naval vessels encircling Taiwan to evaluate their combat readiness, China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) said. Taiwan responded by mobilising its air, sea, and ground forces, with the defence ministry pledging to "defend freedom". President Lai, in a speech, affirmed his commitment to defending Taiwan against external challenges and threats, underscoring the values of freedom and democracy. "Faced with external challenges and threats, we will continue to defend the values of freedom and democracy, and safeguard peace and stability in the region," he said. The drills, initiated on Thursday morning, encompass areas surrounding the Taiwan Strait, as well as regions north, south, and east of the island, including territories such as Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin under Taipei's administration. China's military displayed posters emphasizing its "cross-strait lethality," featuring weaponry alongside provocative language targeting Taiwan's independence. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for all sides to "refrain from acts that could escalate tensions in the region", his spokesman said. US President Joe Biden has previously said he does not support Taiwan's independence but also that he would back sending forces to defend the island. The official US position on intervention is one of ambiguity, according to Channel News Asia. "We strongly urge Beijing to act with restraint," a US spokesperson said, adding China's actions "risk escalation and erode longstanding norms that have maintained regional peace and stability for decades". China's historical claim over Taiwan, stemming from the civil war's aftermath 75 years ago, remains a point of contention. China perceives Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunited with the mainland eventually. Chinese military experts suggested that the exercises were also aimed at rehearsing an economic blockade of Taiwan, particularly targeting critical ports like Kaohsiung to disrupt foreign trade and energy imports. These military manoeuvres echo similar exercises conducted in August last year, following Lai's visit to the United States, and in 2022 after diplomatic visits between Taiwan and US officials. World powers emphasize the importance of stability in the Taiwan Strait due to its significant role in global trade and as a major tech manufacturer, particularly in semiconductor production. The ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan underscore the delicate balance of power in the region, with implications not only for the two entities but also for international geopolitics and economic stability, Channel News Asia reported. (ANI)
On the second day of China's military games on the Taiwan strait, the island nation's Ministry of National Defense (MND) reported a significant presence of Chinese military aircraft and vessels near its territory. According to the MND, as of 6 am on Friday, a total of 49 China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, including SU-30, J-16, and KJ-500, along with 19 China's People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels and 7 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, were detected operating around Taiwan. Of particular concern was the fact that 35 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwest Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). In response to this heightened activity, Taiwan's armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and coast guard, were closely monitoring the situation and taking concrete actions to safeguard the island's freedom and democracy, as stated by the MND. "49 PLA aircraft (including SU-30, J-16, KJ-500 etc.), 19 PLAN vessels, and 7 CCG vessels operating around #Taiwan were detected up until 6 am today. 35 of the aircraft crossed the median line of #Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's SW ADIZ. ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation and responded accordingly," said Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) on Friday. "Tightly monitoring! ROCArmy, ROCNavy, ROCAF and coast guard are taking concrete actions to safeguard #freedom and #democracy!" MND also said. Asserting Taiwan's capacity and confidence to ensure its security and defend its sovereignty, the MND also called upon the international community to condemn China's actions, which it deemed irrational. "We have the capacity and confidence to ensure our security and defend our sovereignty. At the same time, we call for the international community to condemn PRC's irrational action," MND said in a post on X. The Ministry emphasised that the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) military exercises, indicative of its hegemonic mindset, have undermined regional peace and stability. "The CCP's military exercises, which highlight its hegemony mindset, have undermined regional peace and stability. The ROC Armed Forces stand ready to defend our country. We seek no conflicts, but we will not shy away from one," it also said. Despite Taiwan's reluctance for conflict, the ROC Armed Forces affirmed their readiness to defend the country. While seeking to avoid conflicts, Taiwan made it clear that it would not shy away from defending itself against any aggression. The escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait highlight the ongoing geopolitical complexities in the region, with Taiwan reaffirming its commitment to defending its sovereignty and democratic values in the face of increasing military pressure from China. China began its second day of military exercises around Taiwan on Friday, with a focus on testing their capacity to "seize power" and control strategic regions, actions perceived as a response to Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te's recent inauguration, Channel News Asia reported. (ANI)
CJI Chandrachud is in Tashkent to attend a gathering of chief justices from Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member countries.

The SCO, established in Shanghai in June 2001, is an intergovernmental organization primarily focused on regional security concerns and combatting terrorism, ethnic separatism, and religious extremism.

In recent years, the SCO has expanded its priorities to include regional development initiatives.

Earlier in the week, on May 22, CJI Chandrachud paid homage to former Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at the Shastri bust in Tashkent, commemorating the leader's contributions to Indo-Uzbek relations and his historic visit to the city. (ANI)
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that no deportation flights to Rwanda will take place before the July 4 snap election, reported Al Jazeera. Sunak made this announcement during the first full day of campaigning on Thursday. The Labour Party which is currently maintaining a commanding 20-point lead in opinion polls, has promised to scrap the deportation plan if it comes in power. While speaking at a campaign event on Thursday, Sunak cast the policy as central to the political race, Al Jazeera reported. Earlier in April, Sunak announced that there would now, be no delay in the flights to Rwanda and has promised to start sending asylum seekers there within 10 to 12 weeks. British authorities commenced the detention of asylum seekers as part of the new initiative aimed at deporting them to Rwanda, with initial flights slated for departure as early as July. "We've started detaining people ... the flights are booked for July, airfields on standby, the escorts are ready, the caseworkers are churning through everything, so all that is happening, and if I'm re-elected as your prime minister, those flights will go to Rwanda," Sunak said. The deportation plan has been a flagship policy for Sunak since he took office in October 2022. He has continued to champion it even after the UK Supreme Court in November ruled the plan unlawful on the grounds that Rwanda could not be considered a safe third country, reported Al Jazeera. In response, Sunak signed a new treaty with the East African country and passed new legislation in June to circumvent the ruling. Nevertheless, more legal challenges remain possible. Earlier this month, Labour leader Keir Starmer vowed to trash the plan, which has already cost hundreds of millions of pounds, "straight away" upon taking office. However, the number of asylum seekers making the dangerous journey across the Channel has risen to record numbers so far in 2024. Starmer also introduced a separate plan to launch a new border enforcement unit and tap counter "terror" powers to reduce the number of smuggling people. Notably, immigration is expected to be one of the key issues in the election campaigns with the economy and the National Health Service's record waiting times also set to loom large, reported Al Jazeera. The UK Prime Minister's decision to call the vote months earlier than expected came as a shock to some members of his party, with 14 years of at times chaotic Conservative rule leaving many in the country disillusioned. Moreover, in opinion polls, Conservatives have lagged behind the Labour Party since Rishi Sunak replaced former Prime Minister Liz Truss following her resignation after just 44 days in office. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday slammed the anti-India ecosystem calling them the "International Khan Market gang" - an upscale, liberal westernised elites who are disdaining India in an election year, who want to influence the direction of Indian politics to benefit a narrow minority. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Jaishankar stressed that there is a symbiotic relationship between Western media and the International Khan Market gang - a kind of elitist left-lib thought process, that picks up from the Indian media or picks up the cues from the Indian political system to demean India. "In the country today, there is a certain thought process, or entitlement process for which the metaphor of 'Khan Market Gang' is a very good description. I want to tell you there is an international Khan Market Gang as well," said Jaishankar. "These are people who are sort of linked, you know, to the entitled people out here. They are socially comfortable with them. They know them. They feel like they advance similar viewpoints. They are essentially a kind of an elitist left-lib thought process. So there's a symbiotic relationship between the two," he told ANI. Taking a swipe at the anti-India ecosystem over their 'negative' portrayal of India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that these groupings had even endorsed political parties in India. "When the sales are down in the domestic Khan Market, the International Khan Market gang feels like, I need to pep up these guys and give them support and you can actually see which stories they play up, how do they slant things and in previous elections perhaps even in this one they've actually openly endorsed parties and will openly endorse leaders and openly said that this party or this leader is bad for India," EAM Jaishankar said. The EAM said that this amounted to election influencing and an attempt to sway the voter. "I believe it is election influence certainly...And it's not just them, you know, there's a... See, it's a... press, university, think tank, and in some cases maybe some degree of officialdom at some kind of medium level because the guys up there are very smart. They don't get into this. So there is a very clear attempt being made, a very persistent attempt being made to actually influence the direction of Indian politics and the choices of the Indian voter," he said. Jaishankar added, "It peaks at election time and continues even after that. They're all an attempt to demoralize you, delegitimize you to kind of shape, you know, all these things are wrong with India because India is going to give them a result they don't like." Slamming the Western media, Jaishankar said, "...It's difficult to not get influenced because there is a systematic bombardment of information like this, first from the foreign media, then domestic media, then think tanks, then university level conversations, which happens." EAM further highlighted that during campaigning also, this issue comes up a lot, however, "the Indian public, by and large, recognizes it for what it is," he said. He further recalled the 26/11 attack and said that the decision to hold back at that time was praised by the Western media as they called it a "mature decision". "Let me come to 26/11 and that period when inaction or deliberate inaction was seen as a positive. At that time, the New York Times, and the Washington Post, all saw this as a fantastic decision by the then dispensation, a very mature decision to hold back. And it was appreciated worldwide. When those guys praise you, get worried," he said. Responding to whether the Ministry of External Affairs got riled up over editorials, Jaishankar denied it saying that it is their job to contest, convince and communicate. "I don't think we get riled up. But it is our job to contest, to convince and where necessary to communicate. If somebody, some newspaper or some medium whatever you know has a narrative and that narrative is unfair, if that narrative is untruthful, and we often encounter this, if it is very, very slanted, I do not think we should hesitate to call it out," he said. He added that it is not diplomacy to turn the other cheek "It's weakness. Don't be confused. Diplomacy is not continuously taking blows from people who mean you ill, you know." Jaishankar said that diplomacy is to assess the situation and do what is in the interest of your country. Further, the EAM said that when these kinds of narratives are advanced, there is a need to call them out. "I just saw the freedom of press rankings, I mean, I think it's ridiculous. I mean, can you imagine? Please look through...I tell all the journalists of this country should be outraged that you rank in one year. I mean, not this year, last year, we were ranked below Afghanistan. Now, I mean, what can I say?" he expressed. Responding to the US State Department's comments that democracy is under threat in India and the Chief Ministers are being put in jail, Jaishankar said that the law is the law, it goes at its pace and politics goes in its cycle. "In other countries, when politicians have charges against them, what happens? Are they exempt from legal processes? You say, there's an election coming. So guess what? You are a practising politician. So you are exempt from any legal scrutiny. You don't have to come to any hearing. There'll be no charges pressed against you. Do you press the pause button on the law when an election comes up? Is that what other countries do? No, they don't. The law is the law. The law goes at its pace. Politics goes in its cycle. From time to time, they could intersect," he said, EAM added that India is not the only country where this is happening, adding that if anybody has done something that warrants legal proof, there is no way to stop it because of any political compulsion. "We're not the only country where this is happening. You can see it in other parts of the world as well. So if a Chief Minister or any other...I mean, if anybody has done something which warrants a legal process, There is no way you can stop it because there is a political compulsion to do so," he said. (ANI)
In a significant revelation External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has disclosed that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) received a request only on May 21 to impound the passport of Janata Dal Secular MP Prajwal Revanna, who fled to Germany last month amid allegations of sexual assault. Revanna is facing a probe by a Special Investigative Team (SIT) constituted by the Karnataka government over allegations of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation following a complaint by a woman who worked in his household. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Jaishankar clarified the procedural aspects, saying, "To impound a passport is governed by an act called the Passport Act. We need a judicial court or a police request to do so. The MEA got this request from Karnataka only on May 21." Highlighting the adherence to legal procedures, Jaishankar emphasised that the external affairs minister acted promptly upon receiving the request. "We immediately acted on it. On 23rd of May... we have to follow a certain procedure and the procedure is initiated," he added. Asked about the Congress government's accusations against the BJP of shielding Revanna, Jaishankar said, "They did not take the first step... I mean, he's not the first case where impounding a passport is taking place." The revelation comes amidst a political storm surrounding Prajwal Revanna ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The Karnataka government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on April 27 to probe into allegations against Revanna after explicit videos allegedly involving him surfaced on social media. Despite the allegations, Prajwal Revanna has vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that the circulated videos are doctored. The formation of the SIT came following recommendations by the state women's commission, indicating the seriousness with which the matter is being addressed by authorities. On Thursday, JDS supremo and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda issued a stern warning to his grandson Revanna to return to India and face the law in the obscene video case. In a letter posted on X, the former PM says he is not aware of where his grandson is but has warned him to return home and face the law. "I have already said that he should be given the harshest punishment under the law if found guilty. I also cannot convince people that I was unaware of Prajwal's activities. I cannot convince them that I have no desire to shield him. I cannot convince them that I am not aware of his movements and that I was not aware of his foreign trip. I believe in answering my conscience. I believe in God, and I know the almighty knows the truth," the former PM wrote. Deve Gowda also appealed to his grandson to return if he had any respect left for him. Earlier, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting him to cancel the Diplomatic Passport of JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna who is facing an SIT probe over the allegation of sexual harassment "along with prompt and concerted actions to secure his return to India." Siddaramaiah in his letter to the Prime Minister said that it is shameful that Prajwal Revanna fled the country on April 27, 2024, to Germany using his diplomatic passport shortly after news of his heinous actions emerged and just a few hours before the first FIR was filed against him. (ANI)
China on Friday warned the US that efforts toward "Taiwan's independence" are a "dead end" and "will only backfire" after an unnamed US official urged Beijing to exercise restraint over the cross-strait situation. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin at a regular media briefing on Friday said, "There will be a dead end for those who engage in 'Taiwan independence', and to connive support for 'Taiwan independence' will only backfire." Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has threatened force to control it. Wenbin reiterated that Taiwan's independence efforts are doomed to fail. Further, in response to a question about the military drills around Taiwan and US official remarks, Wang Wenbin stated that "Taiwan is China's Taiwan" and emphasised that "it's not for the US to make such remarks." Ha also added that the main problem for these tensions across the Taiwan Strait is, that Taiwan's ruling party (Democratic Progressive Party) is trying to rely on the US for its independence. "The root cause for the tensions across the Taiwan Strait is the DPP authorities' attempt to rely on the US to seek independence. They have been trying to contain China with Taiwan under pretext. If the US truly wants to uphold peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, it should clearly and unequivocally abide by the One China principle and oppose Taiwan independence," said Wenbin. Concurrently, Beijing imposed sanctions on three US defence companies over arms sales to Taipei and censored discussions of the inauguration on Chinese social media. "China will never allow any force or any excuse to provide support for Taiwan. A just cause will be supported by all. In recent years and recent few weeks, many political figures in many countries have voiced their support for China's just position and voiced their support for China's sovereignty and China's just cause for upholding national sovereignty," he added. Wenbin also made it clear that supporting Taiwan's independence would cause trouble and that China remains resolute in defending its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. They firmly oppose Taiwan's independence. Days after Taiwan's Lai Ching Te was sworn in as the island's President, China launched two-day-long military drills on Thursday surrounding the nation in what it called "punishment" for so-called "separatist acts," reported CNN. As part of the drills, dozens of Chinese fighter jets carrying live ammunition carried out mock strikes against "high-value military targets" of the "enemy" alongside destroyers, frigates and missile speedboats. The exercises, which began early Thursday and will encircle Taiwan, are the first real test for newly elected President Lai Ching-te as he attempts to manage relations with the island's powerful authoritarian neighbour. Despite never having controlled Taiwan, China's ruling Communist Party claims it as part of its territory and has vowed to take the island by force if necessary. China said it began joint military drills involving the army, navy, air force, and rocket force in areas around Taiwan at 7.45 a.m. on Thursday. The drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait, a narrow body of water that separates the island from mainland China, as well as north, south, and east of Taiwan, reported CNN. They are also taking place near Taiwan's outlying islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, which are just off China's southeastern coast, according to a statement from the PLA's Eastern Theatre Command. Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin are all Taiwan-controlled territories in the Taiwan Strait close to China's southeast coast, Focus Taiwan reported. The median line of the Taiwan Strait served for decades as a tacit border between China and Taiwan, but China's military has more freely sent aircraft, warships and drones across it. (ANI)
Stating that connectivity is crucial for the progress of any region, India said that it is essential to uphold the basic principles of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) charter and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the member states. Reiterating its strong stand against terrorism, India also stressed that the SCO member states must unite in the fight against terrorism and there should be no place for "double standards." MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) was speaking at the Meeting of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers in Astana, Kazakhstan on May 21. India congratulated Kazakhstan for its SCO presidency of the SCO Council of Heads of State in 2024. It also expressed its gratitude for India's admission as an SCO member in 2017 under the Kazakh presidency. MEA Secy also thanked the Kazakh side for their warm hospitality to him and his delegation in Astana. Notably, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar wasn't able to join the event because of the ongoing general elections in India. He conveyed his wishes for the success of this meeting. Welcoming Iran into the SCO, India also condoled the demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian and others who died in a chopper crash this week. India said it is looking forward to Belarus joining SCO in the capacity as a member in July this year. "India shares deep civilizational ties with the people of this region. We share a common geographical space. The continuous movement of goods, ideas and people traversing the region has left indelible imprints on our customs, traditions, language and cuisine. These historical ties should now create a template for greater mutually beneficial cooperation and people-to-people contact amongst our nation," Ravi said in his address. He said that the centrality of the interests of Central Asian states plays a key role in the engagement with SCO. He added that the platform provides an unparalleled opportunity to unite people, collaborate, grow and prosper together, practising the millenia-old principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (The World is One Family), a message India espouses. "Since its inclusion as a member of SCO in 2017, India has contributed positively to enhance the role of SCO in the global arena and played a proactive and constructive role in the Organization as was evident during India's presidency last year," the MEA Secy said. "As the Chair of SCO Council of Heads of State last year, India's priorities were to advance the theme - 'towards a SECURE SCO'. SECURE is the acronym articulated by Prime Minister Modi which stands for Security, Economic Cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environment," he added. He further said that New Delhi has focused on five pillars of cooperation - Science and Technology, Startups and Innovation, Traditional Medicine, Shared Buddhist Heritage, and Youth Empowerment. Highlighting the challenge of terrorism faced by the world today, the MEA Secy said that decisive action is required to deal with this challenge and there should be no place for "double standards" on such crucial issues. "One of the global challenges today is terrorism. It has become a major threat to regional and global peace and dealing with this challenge requires decisive action. Regardless of its form and manifestations, we must unite in our fight against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism and terror financing. There should be no place for double standards on such serious matters," Ravi said. He added, "The SCO-RATS mechanism shall continue to play a significant role in this regard. India is committed to implement the Action Program flowing from the address by the SCO Heads of State to Youth in 2018 in countering radicalization." Notably, Pakistan is known for fostering terrorists and supporting cross-border terrorism. China, on the other hand, has blocked the UN from listing several names from being designated as global terrorists on multiple occasions. Raising concern on the situation in Afghanistan, the MEA Secy said it directly impacted the regional security, and affirmed that SCO nations must come together to strive for the well-being of the people of Afghanistan "The situation in Afghanistan has directly impacted the security of all of us. SCO countries must come together to strive for the well-being of the people of Afghanistan. It is important that Afghanistan's territory is not used to spread instability in the region or to encourage extremist ideologies," Ravi said. While stating that strong connectivity is crucial for any region's progress, India also emphasised that the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the member states. This is a veiled reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative and its Pakistani component China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). India has repeatedly raised concerns over the project as it passes through the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) region. Dammu Ravi also said Iran's SCO membership can help maximise the utilization of the Chabahar Port. "Strong connectivity is crucial for the progress of any region as it fosters better trade and trust in the region. However, in these efforts, it is essential to uphold the basic principles of the SCO charter, particularly respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Member States," the MEA Secy said. "Following Iran's membership in the SCO, we can work towards maximizing the utilization of the Chabahar Port. The International North-South Transport Corridor can serve as a secure and efficient route for landlocked countries in Central Asia to access the Indian Ocean. Similarly, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) could also be an enabler in bringing economic prosperity in the region," he added. The Chabahar Port is an India-Iran flagship project that serves as an important transit port for trade with Afghanistan. India has been a key player in the development and operation of Chabahar Port. Speaking on the Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation, which was created by India with the vision of fostering collaboration among SCO member states, Dammu Ravi said New Delhi has also organised various initiatives for the startup ecosystems of the SCO Member States since 2020, including the fourth edition of the SCO Startup Forum that was held on March 19 this year. He also spoke about the Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine, which was established to consider the use of traditional medicines and methods to improve the health of citizens of SCO member states in accordance with national legislation and national priorities. The MEA Secy further highlighted that during India's presidency, a Concept Note on Digital Public Infrastructure for Digital Inclusion and Innovation; and a Report on Digital Financial Inclusion were approved. The member states also adopted a Statement on Cooperation in Digital Transformation to bring efficiency, transparency and empowerment of citizens, he added. Dammu Ravi stressed that reform and modernization of SCO is one of the most important agendas before the bloc. "It is pertinent that English is given the status of one of the SCO official and working languages to not only enhance the efficiency of the Organization but also its stature in the international arena. We would be happy to assist in capacity building programmes for English language, through India's renowned Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) courses," he said. (ANI)
President Joe Bidens decision to remove the illegitimate communist Cuban regime from the list of nations not cooperative with counterterrorism efforts is another foreign policy disaster. This move will fuel instability throughout the Western Hemisphere at a time where we already have enough chaos globally.

Thats why Im fighting to stop Bidens appeasement and pass my Fighting Oppression until the Reign of Castro Ends (FORCE) Act and Denying Earnings to the Military Oligarchy in Cuba and Restricting Activities of the Cuban Intelligence Apparatus (DEMOCRACIA) Act to block normalization of relations with Cuba and hold the illegitimate regime accountable through severe sanctions and unprecedented financial pressure until the island sees a new day of freedom.

Bidens appeasement approach mirrors Barack Obamas failed strategy. It didnt work then, it wont work now.

In Florida, we understand appeasement of the evil regime only brings more pain and suffering to the Cuban people. Bidens actions show he doesnt care about freedom in Cuba or the national security risks posed by an emboldened regime. Instead, hes pandering to the socialist sympathizers within the Democrat party who naively believe doing business with Cuba will help its people. He couldnt be more wrong.

Appeasing the Cuban regime also makes Americans less safe. Recently, the Biden administration welcomed a Cuban government delegation behind the scenes to see our TSA security operations at Miami International Airport. Biden and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas giving agents of the Castro regime inside access to our sensitive security features makes America less safe. They are determined to appease the anti-American dictatorship and its allies at the expense of our national security.

Those who fled Cuba are fearful when they see Democrats like Biden willing to play ball with murderous regimes. I was in Miami this week on Cuban Independence Day, announcing a Cubans for Rick Scott coalition. Cuban-Americans understand the threats of communism, and know Ill support their fight for freedom in Cuba and to ensure socialism never gets a foothold in Florida.

But its not just Biden. My opponent, former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, voiced strong public support for the Obama-era appeasement policies Biden is now close to reimplementing. Voters remember they fired her after one term in Congress for not standing up to the socialists in her party. She was silent when the Squad secretly met with the Cuban regime and voted against a resolution condemning the regime for jailing Cuban citizens for protesting. Her silence here is deafening.

Since Biden took office, Mexicos government has pressured his administration to ease U.S. policy toward Cuba, promising in return to crack down on the border. This pay-to-play scheme is laughable. We all know they wont hold up their end, because the bad guys never do, but Biden is pursuing it anyway.

The irony is sickening. Bidens appeasement of the Castro/Diaz-Canel regime, in exchange for empty promises from Mexico, will have the opposite effect. His weakness will allow more terrorists, dangerous criminals, and deadly drugs to flood into the U.S., threatening our national security and killing American citizens. Isnt enough blood already on his hands?

Under former President Donald Trump, Mexico was forced to cooperate with U.S. border security efforts without ridiculous concessions for the Cuban regime. Biden is too weak, and cares too much about keeping our border open, to force the same result.

When Biden appeases the Cuban regime, he supports terrorism and actively aids Americas enemies in Russia, Iran, and communist China. Remember: this is the same regime that has allowed U.S. embassy staff to be attacked in Havana and is hosting communist Chinas spy base just 90 miles from our shores.

Im fighting to reverse the dangerous decisions of the Biden Administration. We must lead the defense of human rights in Latin America, not let evil regimes lead us. Letting Cuba, Mexico and China dictate American foreign policy is insane. Its time we stand up and say enough.

Republican Rick Scott represents Florida in the United States Senate. He is a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services and the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and the former two-term governor of Florida.
The public is invited to enjoy a meal Saturday while helping the Minden American Legion recover from last month's horrific tornado.

A barbecue will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. around Mindens City Hall, 207 Main St. Hamburgers, hot dogs, coleslaw, chips and dessert will be on the menu.

The barbecue event is free will donation with the proceeds going to repair the legion headquarters, in which a large exterior wall and a portion of the roof were destroyed.

The Legion estimates that $50,000 to $60,000 will be needed to repair the structure. The organization only has liability insurance on the structure and, therefore, requires financial assistance for the repairs.

Saturday's barbecue is being furnished and served by the Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter in Council Bluffs.

"We approached them, and they were very happy that we are willing to do it," said Dick Ryba, commander of the Council Bluffs VFW Post 11355. "We support all veterans."

A member of the local chapter who lives in Minden had his house destroyed from that April tornado, he added.

"It hits close to home," Ryba said.

There should be plenty of food to go around, Ryba said, including 400 hamburgers and 400 hot dogs. Between 15 and 20 local members are expected to work at that event, he said.

Most importantly, all the money raised will go to the legion, Ryba said.

We will not keep one red cent, Ryba said.

A helping hand wont stop there. At the barbecue, VFW members plan to interact with the local community members to determine how they can assist in any way, he said.

Well be there to help, Ryba said.

A large portion of Minden was severely damaged by a tornado that occurred on April 26. Recovery efforts remain underway, and federal emergency officials are in the community helping to connect survivors with assistance.

FEMA, SBA set up relief center in tent outside Minden fire barn A pair of federal agencies began meeting one-on-one with tornado survivors outside the Minden Volunteer Fire Department station Wednesday afternoon.

The Community Foundation for Western Iowa has established a relief fund to benefit the residents of Minden directly. Donate to the fund at tinyurl.com/mindenstrong.

Donations to assist with the reconstruction of the Legion building can also be sent directly by mail to Minden American Legion Post 437, 211 Broadway St., Minden IA 51553.
Region 11 emergency management is encouraging safe driving with the fall changes that drivers are experiencing. From the end of daylight saving time to active wildlife to Halloween, there are many things that drivers need to be on the lookout for.
Between 40% and 80% of the maize harvest has been destroyed by El Nino-induced drought in southern Africa, the UN World Food Programme Executive Director Cindy McCain said.

I met farmers who usually grow enough to feed their families and communities. This year they harvested nothing. Now imagine a similar scenario for millions of people throughout Southern Africa, and we have a humanitarian catastrophe, McCain said following her visit to Zambia.

According to the WFP, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi have been impacted the hardest and have all declared states of drought disaster.

Rainfall dropped by an average 20% in February, damaging farms and undermining output.

Recognising that 61 million people were affected by El Nino, Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) at an Extraordinary Summit launched a humanitarian appeal for US$5.5 billion that will complement the internal resources of the impacted countries.

Im asking the international community to join us and step up now. We cant ask millions to wait for the next harvest season  a year from now  to put food on their tables. These families need our support today while we help to build a more resilient future, McCain said.
The West has for long advocated free trade, but as globalization wanes serious trade protectionist measures are implemented in the EU in particular, targeting industrial goods from Morocco and other developing nations, trade minister Ryad Mezzour said.

Mezzour, was speaking to an international conference in Dakhla, when he deplored the recent measures by Italy to block the entry of a shipment of 134 electric cars made in Morocco.

Italy argues that the cars had Italian flags that could wrongfully indicate they were made in Italy. The argument did not convince Moroccan officials who decry a protectionist measure.

Stellantis had issued a statement explaining that made in Morocco is well indicated in the car and that the Italian flag was meant to show the origin of the brand.

The incident is full of lessons that we should keep for the future. First among which is that the strong sets the rules. We should not depend on others and we have to work to reinforce our trade with African countries, said the minister at the conference on the Atlantic initiative launched by Moroccos King to bolster regional integration.

Europe and the West which have advocated globalization are now sealing their markets as developing nations like Morocco start to export high value goods, he said.

Morocco needs to keep fostering ties with African partners, with whom it has launched major projects like the gas pipeline with Nigeria, he said.

Moroccos agricultural goods have also suffered from protectionist moves that verges on vandalism as trucks carrying Moroccan tomatoes have been attacked by angry French farmers last week.

The EU farmers, in contrast, want to export to Morocco but they resent seeing competitive Moroccan tomatoes in their local markets, in a contradiction that sums up western thinking about free trade with its southern African neighbors.
Morocco and Mali agreed, Thursday in Bali (Indonesia), to strengthen their cooperation in the water sector.

We have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between our two countries in the water sector, said Equipment and Water Minister, Nizar Baraka, following a meeting with Malis Minister of Environment, Sanitation and Sustainable Development, Mamadou Samake, on the fringes of the 10th World Water Forum.

Praising the historic ties between the two brotherly countries, Baraka noted that the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss several areas of bilateral cooperation in the water field, including dams, sanitation, financing, adaptation, and integrated water resource management.

The two officials also discussed the Atlantic Initiative launched by King Mohammed VI to promote access to the Atlantic Ocean for Sahel states, as well as the initiative of Adaptation of African Agriculture (AAA), launched by the King at COP22, and ways for Mali to benefit from this initiative to adapt its agricultural sector to climate change.

For his part, Samake praised Moroccos expertise in the fields of dams, water management, and irrigation, noting that this expertise was of great interest to Mali.

The meeting also discussed potential projects to strengthen the resilience of populations living in desert or Sahel zones, which remain particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Morocco and Mali share strong relations. We want to further strengthen and deepen our cooperation for the common interest of the people of both countries, the Malian official said.

We have agreed to organize a ministerial visit to Morocco to exchange views on the various issues discussed today, and to define a roadmap for the vision that drives our two countries, he added.
Zambia reiterated its support for Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty over all its territory, including the Moroccan Sahara, and underlined the relevance of the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as the only credible, serious and realistic solution to the Sahara issue.

This position was expressed in a Joint Communique issued Friday following talks in Rabat between visiting Zambian Minister of Justice, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, and Moroccos Foreign Affairs Minister, Nasser Bourita.

In this Joint Communique, Haimbe reiterated his countrys full support to the Morocco-proposed Autonomy Plan for the Sahara, as the only credible, serious and realistic solution.

He also commended the efforts of the United Nations as the exclusive framework for reaching a realistic, practical, and lasting solution to the dispute over the Sahara.

For his part, Bourita welcomed the positive value of this decision, hailing the constructive development in relations between the two brotherly countries over the years by the opening, in October 2020, of the Embassy of Zambia in Rabat and its General Consulate in Laayoune, and its participation in January 15th, 2021, in the Ministerial Conference in Support of the Autonomy Initiative under the Sovereignty of Morocco, at the invitation of Morocco and the United States of America.

As stated in the joint communique, the Zambian official welcomed the Atlantic Initiative, launched by King Mohammed VI, aimed at transforming this continental maritime space into a zone of peace, stability and development, and underlined the the opportunity offered by the Royal Initiative to facilitate the access of the Sahel States to the Atlantic Ocean that, in turn, will contribute to the regions socio-economic development and ensure stability and prosperity in Africa.

He also welcomed the enlightened royal initiative, within the framework of the Atlantic African States Process to enhance cooperation by making the Atlantic African space as a geostrategic framework for intra-African cooperation and promoting peace, stability and shared prosperity.

Morocco and Zambia on the other hand expressed their shared desire to make bilateral partnership an exceptional model of intra-African cooperation, based on the values of solidarity, exchange and sharing.

The two officials welcomed the strong ties of fraternity, solidarity, support, and understanding between Moroccan and Zambian people and the existing mutual respect between King Mohammed VI, and President Hakainde Hichilema, as well as the shared desire to make bilateral partnership an exceptional model of intra-African cooperation, based on the values of solidarity, exchange and sharing.

The two sides also expressed satisfaction at the steady pace of mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.

Both Ministers recalled the visit King Mohammed VI paid to Zambia in February 2017, and which gave a strong boost to Moroccan-Zambian relations, underlining that this royal visit was an opportunity for the two countries to further consolidate their political relations and to diversify and enrich their economic and commercial cooperation.

Bourita underlined that Morocco sincerely wishes to put in place a constructive and a deep political dialogue with Zambia, welcoming the convergence of visions of both sides on issues of common interest, marked by a common commitment to peace, stability, respect for sovereignty of States and democracy in Africa and in the world.

Both Ministers highlighted the important economic potential offered by the two countries, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to develop their mutually beneficial economic partnership, and to increase two-way trade to a satisfactory level, to create a more enabling environment for mutual investment, and to encourage the business communities of both countries to fully explore and take advantage of the opportunities offered by their growing markets and expanding infrastructure.

The two sides agreed, in this connection, to convene, in Laayoune, during the last quarter of 2024, the first session of the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation that will discuss, among other sectors, mining-critical minerals and battery electric vehicle value chain; agriculture, food security, horticulture and irrigation, as Morocco is the leading producer of Phosphate fertilizers and has major programs with a number of African countries; intelligence and security cooperation; trade calling for the creation of Trade alliances within the context of the AU Continental Free Trade Agreement (CFTA); education and academic and professional training.

At the multilateral level, they called for the development of a high-level joint political dialogue and stressed the importance of intensifying their contacts with the aim of further harmonizing their positions within regional, continental, multilateral and international institutions, such as the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN).
Harpers Bazaar, September 2004. Photo: New York Magazine

Nancy Collins was all but finished with her 2004 Harpers Bazaar feature on the First Couple of San Francisco when the photos to accompany it reached the fashion magazines New York office.

There was Kimberly Guilfoyle sprawled out on an intricately patterned rug in socialite Ann Gettys Pacific Heights home. Ornate furniture surrounded the Ralph Laurenclad, Cartier-bejeweled, bare-shouldered 30-something. The San Francisco Bay  framed by tall gold candelabras, olive-green drapes, and plush velvet armchairs  sparkled in the background.

To the writers utter surprise, Guilfoyle  a cable-news legal analyst  wasnt alone. Mayor Gavin Newsom, a rising star in Democratic politics whom the reporter planned to brand as a successor to John F. Kennedy in the forthcoming profile, was also splayed out in the photo. There he lay spooning his wife in a Hugo Boss tuxedo, hair slicked back, hands wrapped around Guilfoyle and eyes fixed in a piercing, model-like stare.

My God, Collins remembers thinking, how lucky am I?

Most elected officials with their eyes on the future wouldnt be caught dead basking in that level of luxury, let alone allow a photographer to capture the image for a national magazine. I was totally surprised when I saw him on the floor, Collins says. How many politicians curl up with their wife on the floor for Harpers Bazaar? It was kind of a sexy picture in terms of politics. There they were, kind of Mark Antony and Cleopatra.

Collins was not alone in her surprise. When the September 2004 issue hit newsstands, Newsoms aides were equally flabbergasted. According to a top aide at the time, no one from the mayors office was present at the photo shoot, and Newsom hadnt shared with his team that he had posed for a portrait like that.

Everybody was taken by surprise, the aide says. When they dug into how the shoot happened, they recall, they found out that the picture wasnt really contemplated as being part of the story, that they had understood it was an outtake or something  a claim that doesnt hold up given that Newsom appears in it in eveningwear, not exactly something an aspiring politician would just bring with him to a photo shoot.

It was evident from the moment they saw the portrait, this aide recalls, that it would be around for a long time.

Two decades later, the image is firmly a part of Newsoms political story. When some Democrats openly speculated that he should replace President Biden on the 2024 ballot, the rug photo popped up in political-gossip circles. Some Democratic operatives believe it is still a looming issue for Newsoms future as the scion of a wealthy family tries to tilt populist.

The pair seen lounging in the Getty mansion would jointly file for divorce in January 2005, mere months after the story was published, and diverge politically, too. Newsom worked his way up the states political ladder, tacking left. Guilfoyle, meanwhile, turned hard right, becoming a mainstay host on Fox News and a top adviser to former president Donald Trump, eventually getting engaged to his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr. (Newsom and Guilfoyle declined to comment.)

I was thrilled, Collins says with a laugh. I knew they would have legs. I knew it was a great picture. But, she adds, she could never have guessed it would have such a long shelf life, even though it wasnt very smart politically.

The profile was just the latest for Collins, who, in her decadeslong career, had written for Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, and Harpers Bazaar and interviewed then-Senator Joe Biden in 1985 for the Today show and then-businessman Donald Trump and his second wife, Marla Maples, in 1994 for ABCs Primetime Live.

Collins set her sights on Guilfoyle and Newsom because they were smart and gorgeous and high profile. The magazine had conceived the story as a look at Guilfoyle with the hope that Newsom would also talk to Collins; when she set off for the interview, her editors asked whether she could make that happen. Well, he decided to take a picture instead, she says. I was shocked that he showed up.

The story made sense at that political moment as well. Newsom, 36, and Guilfoyle, 37, were receiving considerable attention nationally, and not only for their movie-star good looks. Just weeks into his mayoralty, Newsom had directed city officials to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The decision spurred the so-called Winter of Love, during which hundreds of same-sex couples were married long before it was legal nationwide. The move put Newsom in a public fight with then-President George W. Bush, who, amid his own reelection campaign, was calling for a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in response to what was happening in San Francisco. Despite his rising profile, Newsom would have no role at the Democratic National Convention in Boston later that year, primarily because officials wanted to distance themselves from the gay-marriage debate, something Bush had successfully been using to rally his Evangelical base.

The fight over gay marriage helped turn Newsom into a national figure. A GQ profile branded him the next Bill Clinton, and the First Couple of San Francisco appeared together on Charlie Roses show to talk about their marriage, among other things. Newsom said Guilfoyle is probably a little more conservative than I am, a comment that is not only true given her commitment to Trump two decades later but that bears itself out in the interview when Guilfoyle, a former assistant district attorney, disagrees with her husband (and California district attorney Kamala Harris) for not calling for the death penalty in the instance of a police officer being shot and killed. Its tough to deny people their justice, Guilfoyle said, referring to the family of the slain officer.

To Collins, the Newsom comparison was more like Camelot: President and First Lady John F. and Jackie Kennedy. And she didnt hide that in the piece. It was headlined The New Kennedys, and Collins wrote that the couple promises to be one of the most glamorous political unions since Jack and Jackie, describing Newsoms hair as a Kennedy-esque mop.

I went in with the whole Kennedy idea in mind, that they were kind of the new Kennedys, Collins recalls.

The request Harpers Bazaar sent for access to Newsom and Guilfoyle, according to a former top Newsom aide, came through friends and associates, not official City Hall channels. This was early in Newsoms time as mayor  he had taken office only months before  and the Democrats operation was not yet in tip-top shape, they say. But Newsoms office agreed to help with the piece, eventually even allowing Guilfoyle to pose for photos at City Hall.

Most of Newsoms quotes in the profile are about his wife: He told Collins that Guilfoyle can do whatever she puts her mind to and described their marriage as a wonderful combination of being in love and extraordinarily proud. The story detailed how they met  locking eyes at a political fundraiser in 1994  and how Guilfoyle, before they were dating, had donated $500 to his campaign for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Newsom told Collins that Guilfoyle was in high demand at his events and joked that people told him, Forget you. Wheres Kimberly?

Guilfoyle described her husband as being on a mission and warned that nobody better mess with him because Im very protective. She told Collins the couple wanted kids: Children are definitely on the agenda. Maybe six, maybe one; who knows? Im a very fertile Puerto Rican. And she openly speculated about Newsom running for higher office one day. Do I think he could be president of the United States? Guilfoyle said. Absolutely. Id gladly vote for him.

But what stands out most in the piece is the now-iconic Getty-mansion photo.

Guilfoyle told a reporter shortly after the issue was published that the pose had been photographer Dewey Nickss idea. He liked the room, suggested that we do that, she said. He wanted something kind of warm and intimate  Its a fashion magazine. (Nicks declined to comment for this article.)

In the same interview, Guilfoyle bristled at the Kennedy comparison. Oh my God, she said. We made no suggestion of any similarity. Public service, thats it. Its not a comparison we make.

Newsom also seemed peeved about the story a few months later. During a December 2004 interview on CNN, anchor Soledad OBrien asked him about it. Why do you bring that up? Newsom asked OBrien before calling the comparison to the Kennedys ridiculous and saying it gets made any time there are new politicians. (Newsom also denied wanting to be governor  a position he would hold 15 years later  and said it was not my aspiration to be a politician.)

The rug photo wasnt the only snap in the profile; the couple was also shown in an office setting and shooting pool in the back room at Tosca Cafe, where theyd had their first date. Newsoms aides, however, knew that particular image could become an issue. Its a thing that  those of us who were involved at the time will regret, the former aide says. But I dont in any way think its decisive about how people make choices about who to vote for.

Except that the photo gets new life on social media every time Newsom or Guilfoyle is in the news. Should Newsom run for president someday, opposing campaigns operatives would quickly use photos like this to cast him as out of touch.

Nothing says I care about the cost of your groceries like sprawling out on an expensive rug for a fashion-magazine photo shoot, says a Democratic operative with years of experience on political campaigns. Never in a million years would staff sign off on that now. Pictures go viral. Things cannot be unseen.

They add, Whether or not this has a tangible impact on his trajectory, its a reminder that the internet is forever and that images from the early aughts can haunt you for decades  But that rug really did tie the room together.

People close to Newsom dispute the idea that this one photo will impact his future, particularly since he has risen from mayor to lieutenant governor to governor to possible presidential contender in the years since it was taken.

Peter Ragone, a longtime political operative who was Newsoms communications director at the time of the photo shoot and counsels him to this day, maintains that voters dont give a shit about random titillating photos. They give a shit about what you did and what youre going to do for them.

Collins isnt convinced.

If Newsom one day runs for president, it will be splashed everywhere, she says. Look, Jack and Jackie didnt lay on the floor.
Photo-Illustration: Intelligenecer; Photo: Microsoft

Microsoft has invested $13 billion in OpenAI, providing the money-losing start-up with the huge amounts of capital and computing power necessary for its continued operations. In exchange, Microsoft gets access to OpenAIs technology for use in its own products as well as a real and reputational stake in the AI boom. We are below them, above them, around them, Satya Nadella said in March about OpenAI.

Microsofts investment has been cast as a strategic masterstroke, through which stodgy old Microsoft sent Google into a panic and established itself as a player in techs Next Big Thing. Good for it! And the companys stock price. But Microsofts long-term plans to make money with OpenAIs technology  and to monetize AI in general  are still taking shape. There was a Bing relaunch, which promised clean, simple responses to questions, which Nadella suggested was existentially threatening to Googles core business; one year later, it was still error-prone, its interface was cluttered, and its market share was still hovering in the low single digits. Last year, the company started charging for subscriptions to Copilot, its AI assistant software, in hopes that enterprise customers would shell out for the promise of increased employee productivity in Microsoft Office and Github; according to the company, uptake has been solid.

AI subscriptions are, so far, the tech industrys favorite idea for making money from AI. This is conceptually simple  your customers are paying you for access to a new product. The problem is that compute-heavy cloud services like ChatGPT and Copilot remain extremely expensive to run, meaning that in some cases even paying customers might be costing them money. Computing costs are likely to fall, and AI-model efficiency could improve, but, much like the basic assumption that theres a huge market for these things just waiting to be tapped, these are bets and not particularly safe ones.

This week, Microsoft announced that it would be integrating AI more deeply into even more of its products, including Windows, which, among many other chatbot-shaped things, is set to get a feature called Recall, described by the company as an explorable timeline of your PCs past. This feature, which will be turned on by default for Windows users, records and recalls everything you do on your computer by taking near-constant screenshots, processing them with AI, and making them available for future browsing through a conversational interface. You can watch Nadella try to explain the feature and its appeal to the Wall Street Journals Joanna Stern:

Microsofts AI Recall explained:

 Takes screenshots of everything you do in Windows 11 and uses local small language model to help you search through it

 Stores screenshots locally. You adjust how long they are stored for and how much drive space to dedicate

 Runs pic.twitter.com/5KWIbzWoPH  Joanna Stern (@JoannaStern) May 21, 2024

Like smartphones, personal computers already collect and produce vast amounts of data about their users, but this is a big step in the direction of surveillance  constant, open-ended, and mostly unredacted  offered in exchange for a strange feature that Microsofts CEO is quite insistent its users will enjoy. Nadella attempts to preempt any concerns by pointing out that the AI models powering Recall run locally  that is, on the users device, not in the cloud. This is, at best, a partial solution to a problem of Microsofts own creation  a problem Windows users didnt know they had until this week.

On-device AI processing is interesting to Microsoft for other reasons, too. In a world where AI services are expensive to run, installing them in every popular Microsoft product represents a real risk. In a world where the processing necessary to run chatbots, generate images, or surveil your own computer usage to the maximum possible extent occurs on users devices, the cost of deploying AI is vastly lower.

For Microsoft, that is  if it expects to fully utilize these new features that are becoming increasingly integral to the core Window product, customers will have to buy new machines, some of which Microsoft also showed off this week. According to The Verge:

All of Microsofts major laptop partners will offer Copilot Plus PCs, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said at an event at the companys headquarters on Monday. That includes Dell, Lenovo, Samsung, HP, Acer, and Asus; Microsoft is also introducing two of its own as part of the Surface line. And while Microsoft is also making a big push to bring Arm chips to Windows laptops today, Nadella said that laptops with Intel and AMD chips will offer these AI features, too.

These PCs will come with a neural processor, roughly akin to a graphics card, which is a separate hardware feature that can handle AI-related processing tasks more quickly and with lower power use than existing CPUs and GPUs. In conjunction with Microsofts shift to more efficient mobile processor architecture for laptops and desktops  something Apple committed to years ago, selling huge numbers of laptops in the process  AI is being used to make the case to its customers that this is the next stage of the upgrade cycle. Its time to get a new PC, says the company that makes the software that powers most PCs and that sells PCs of its own.

Microsoft, like many other tech giants, says its all in on AI, but its approach includes hedges against AI deflation, too. Maybe customers flock to new AI features, in which case Microsoft will have shifted computing expenses back to its billions of customers, improving margins on subscription products and selling lots of Windows licenses in the process. If they dont, though  if people keep using their Windows machines in approximately the same way they have for decades  Microsoft makes money anyway and leaves its cloud computing capacity free to sell to other firms that want to try their luck building AI tools. Multi-market sector domination with considerable leverage over different but overlapping groups of customers: Not such a bad deal!
A moneybags veep candidate with baggage. Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Its too early to know if Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s independent presidential candidacy will ultimately represent a small and forgettable vehicle for disgruntled cranks or be a significant factor in the elections outcome. To give him his due, RFK Jr. is one of just four independent candidates in living memory (the others being George Wallace, John Anderson, and Ross Perot) to have registered as much as 10 percent in general-election polls. Where his support comes from is a regular and major concern for the Joe Biden and Donald Trump campaigns.

But the problems the Kennedy camp is currently encountering are beginning to add up and even snowball. Heres a rundown of the many issues he faces.

Problem No. 1: Ballot Access

Like other independent and minor-party candidates, Kennedy has to spend most of his money and much of his time simply trying to get onto general-election ballots by navigating a widely varying and often complex landscape of state election laws. His campaign claims it has met the requirements for ballot access in 15 states. But so far, according to the Boston Globe, only five states (Utah, Oklahoma, Michigan, Delaware, and Hawaii) have certified RFK Jr. as a general-election presidential candidate; among them, only Michigan is a battleground state. Team Kennedy is confident about eventually getting onto the ballot everywhere, as Perot did in 1992 and 1996 (albeit after the billionaire spent a big chunk of money for it). But now, ballot access has a new sense of urgency thanks to a second problem.

Problem No. 2: Debate Access

Getting onto the debate stage with major-party candidates is a bit of a great white whale for independent presidential aspirants, conferring desperately needed legitimacy and unequaled (and free) media attention. In 1992, debate access helped make Perot the most successful non-major-party presidential candidate since Teddy Roosevelt (at least in the national popular vote).

The sudden agreement of the Biden and Trump campaigns on an unusually early debate (in Atlanta on June 27, sponsored by CNN) was designed to create a one-on-one contest excluding RFK Jr. But CNNs actual criteria for inclusion offer a glimmer of hope for Kennedy:

Candidates must  appear on a sufficient number of state ballots to reach the 270 electoral vote threshold to win the presidency and receive at least 15% in four separate national polls of registered or likely voters that meet CNNs standards for reporting. Polls that meet those standards are those sponsored by CNN, ABC News, CBS News, Fox News, Marquette University Law School, Monmouth University, NBC News, The New York Times/Siena College, NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist College, Quinnipiac University, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post.

Kennedy has reached the 15 percent threshold in three of the qualifying polls, and he may hit four by the time the debate field is set on June 20. His bigger problem involves certifying ballot access in states that control a majority of the electoral college. Even if you buy his campaigns dubious count of states where he has made the grade, they add up to only 207 electoral votes. Kennedy is already making the argument that presumptive nominees Biden and Trump cant qualify either, at least before their national party conventions, but nobodys going to buy that one. More likely, this means Team RFK Jr. will have to put the pedal to the metal to get ballot access in more states as quickly as possible.

Perhaps that wont be a problem for the Kennedy campaign with the second planned debate, scheduled for September. But it would still need to meet a tough polling requirement, which leads to a third problem.

Problem No. 3: Slipping Poll Numbers

Team RFK Jr. got some bad news on May 22 when Quinnipiac, one of the two outlets that had given the candidate CNN-debate-qualifying poll numbers, came out with a new national survey showing him slipping below the required threshold, at 14 percent. But the much bigger problem is the likelihood (based on all the historical precedents) that his level of support will steadily decline as the general election approaches. Already he has seen a slow deterioration of his standing in the RCP national polling averages from 13 percent in the first quarter of 2024 to 10 percent now. A new battery of battleground-state polls from BloombergMorning Consult reported a noteworthy reduction in support for Kennedy. He is also regularly doing more poorly in the few credible polls already screening for likelihood to vote (e.g., a new Marquette Law School poll showing him losing a third of his support when a likely-voter screen is applied), reflecting his disproportionate strength among low-propensity voters. To cite one very noticeable example, an April national likely-voter survey from NY TimesSiena gave Kennedy just 2 percent of the vote. These trends bear watching.

Problem No. 4: Biden and Trump Waiting to Pounce

For the most part, polls have shown Kennedy drawing support more or less equally from Biden and Trump. If that were to change, the major-party candidate being negatively affected would almost certainly come after the independent with a claw hammer (both the Biden and Trump campaigns have already been exploring Kennedys vulnerabilities in public comments). In fact, they both might do so anyway in hopes of depicting RFK Jr. as undesirable to their own supporters yet highly desirable to their opponents backers. The Biden campaign in particular has the resources for some soul-crushing negative ads if it chooses to go in that direction. And Kennedys main source of money to counter such malevolent attention comes with her own set of issues.

Problem No. 5: Nicole Shanahan

In choosing little-known patent lawyer and tech entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan as his running mate, Kennedy secured a lot of money (she became very wealthy after a divorce settlement with Google co-founder Sergey Brin and had already been generously helping the RFK Jr. campaign). But this comes with a lot of baggage. Aside from her lack of experience in politics and in the public eye, the media scrutiny of Shanahan as a possible vice-president has begun, and if a new profile from the New York Times is any indication, it could become a major distraction for the Kennedy campaign:

In 2011, Ms. Shanahan began dating [Jeremy] Kranz, a tech investor in San Francisco. She told people that she had converted to Judaism during that time for the relationship 

That July, Ms. Shanahan met Mr. Brin at a yoga festival in Lake Tahoe, Calif., four people with knowledge of the events said. He had recently separated from Anne Wojcicki, his wife at the time. Mr. Brin and Ms. Shanahan embarked on an affair weeks before her wedding to Mr. Kranz, the people said.

Mr. Kranz discovered the relationship several days after he married Ms. Shanahan when he saw texts between her and Mr. Brin on her phone, they said. He filed to annul the marriage 27 days after the wedding, court records show.

Her subsequent marriage to Brin ended, the Times reports, when Shanahan allegedly informed him of a sexual encounter (which she now denies ever happened) with none other than Elon Musk.

Shanahan could use some better name ID but not of this nature.

Problem No. 6: Internal Campaign Conflicts

Shanahan is also involved in what looks like a big dispute within the Kennedy campaign over a major 2024 election issue: abortion policy. Again, the New York Times has the story:

A key adviser to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is stepping away from his presidential campaign, citing an increasingly hateful and divisive atmosphere that no longer aligns with my values.

Angela Stanton King, the campaigns adviser for Black engagement, announced her departure in a statement on social media on Tuesday evening, five months after she was added to the campaigns payroll.

Stanton King was a former Trump supporter and QAnon fan whom the 45th president pardoned for a 2007 car-theft conviction. But more to the point, shes an anti-abortion activist apparently aligned with Shanahan but not necessarily Kennedy on this issue, says the Times:

The Kennedy team has been waging an internal battle over the campaigns abortion platform. Mr. Kennedy had previously said that he would not support government restrictions on abortion care, but reversed himself this month after a public pressure campaign from Ms. Shanahan and Ms. Stanton King, who is an anti-abortion activist and advocate for criminal justice reform.

What a mess.

All in all, its possible the Kennedy for President campaign has already peaked.
Plotting his vengeance. Photo: Dave Sanders/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The long wait is nearly over. Barring a hung jury, we should soon know whether Donald Trump will become the first U.S. president to be convicted of a crime. Legal writer Ankush Khardori rates the odds of a jury conviction in People v. Trump as fairly good  but not overwhelming, and [p]erhaps slightly more likely than not. For months, pollsters have tried to discern the likely impact of a Trump criminal conviction in this and other cases (though this is the only one likely to produce a verdict before Election Day) on the 2024 presidential election. But one thing is very sure: If Trump is indeed convicted of illegal conduct in arranging for hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels just prior to the 2016 election, he will denounce the verdict as contrived entirely by his political enemies (in this case Democratic prosecutor Alvin Bragg) to damage his 2024 candidacy, thereby rigging the election itself.

So if Trump has to campaign as a convicted criminal, his consolation prize is that he will already have laid the groundwork for contesting or even defying the results, just as he did in 2020. That he has anticipated this development is made very clear by the frequency with which he has talked about the upcoming election as rigged. Hes been doing that a lot more during this cycle than he did four years (or eight years) ago, as an analysis by the New York Times shows:

Though the tactic is familiar  Mr. Trump raised the specter of a rigged election in the 2016 and 2020 cycles, too  his attempts to undermine the 2024 contest are a significant escalation 

Long before announcing his candidacy, Mr. Trump and his supporters had been falsely claiming that President Biden was weaponizing the Justice Department to target him. But it took until March of last year for Mr. Trump to settle on a new accusation: that the multiple legal challenges related to Mr. Trumps business and political activities constituted a new way of cheating in order to interfere in the 2024 election. He has made versions of that accusation more than 350 times.

In 2020 you had to be paying reasonably close attention to what Trump was saying to realize he was all but telling us he would not accept defeat. Those who accurately predicted hed claim victory on Election Night were often mocked as alarmists and conspiracy theorists, and even after the fact, there were claims Trump rejected the results on a sudden impulse.

This time around, youd have a hard time missing Trumps preemptive argument that he can only lose if the election is rigged, and that his legal troubles prove the fix is in, as the Times notes. He is not mincing words:

[H]alf a year before Election Day 2024  and after more than a year of pushing the election interference line about the criminal charges against him and repeatedly warning that Democrats are cheating  Mr. Trump again placed conditions on his acceptance of election results.

If everythings honest, Ill gladly accept the results, he said in a May 1 interview with The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. If its not, you have to fight for the right of the country.

A guilty verdict in the New York trial would clinch his case, giving him months to devise a strategy for overturning a defeat in November. His election denialism in 2020 depended on a scenario in which the results were close enough that he could convince supporters he was being robbed of victory by Democrats who stuffed the ballot box with fraudulent mail-in votes. No such precision is required for Trumps 2024 argument that Bidens whole campaign revolves around election interference, defined as any legal proceedings against the former president in federal or state courts. As the Times observes, its a classic Trumpian strategy being deployed with unprecedented intensity:

This rhetorical strategy  heads, I win; tails, you cheated  is a beloved one for Mr. Trump that predates even his time as a presidential candidate. He called the Emmy Awards a con game after his television show The Apprentice failed to win in 2004 and 2005.

This doesnt mean, unfortunately, that a not guilty verdict in Manhattan would put an end to Trumps election-denial threats. He can always claim the embarrassment, inconvenience, or cost of being on trial had a fatal effect on his candidacy, and/or that the remaining indictments he faces are smearing his reputation among persuadable voters and discouraging his supporters. Nothing will turn off the MAGA rigged election machine other than a reoccupation of the White House.
Ohio governor Mike DeWine. Photo: Joshua A. Bickel/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Joe Bidens path to receiving his partys presidential nomination for the second time has been a relatively smooth one, despite low-performing challengers and calls for him to step aside. But a procedural quirk in Ohios laws has raised questions over whether the sitting president will be listed on the states general-election ballot, owing to the 2024 Democratic national convention coming weeks after Ohios August deadline for certifying candidates. Though conflicts like this have been easily solved with a quick legislative fix, some Republican lawmakers in the state dont seem particularly inclined to help Biden  putting them at odds with Mike DeWine, Ohios Republican governor. Heres what we know about where things stand.

What does the law say?

According to Ohio law, the names of presidential candidates must be certified to the secretary of State no less than 90 days prior to the general election. This year, Chicago is set to host the Democratic convention from August 19 to 22, several weeks after the states August 7 deadline. This means that Bidens official designation as the partys presidential nominee will occur too late for his name to be certified on the states November ballot. This issue could be addressed by the Democratic Party opting to move its convention, a logistical unlikelihood, or by the state legislature passing a measure to change the deadline in order to accommodate the dates.

Hasnt this happened before?

Its not unusual for party conventions to be held in the latter part of the summer. The Ohio legislature has previously passed changes to the certification deadline in 2012 for Mitt Romney and Barack Obamas respective August and September conventions. They did the same in 2020 when both parties held their gatherings in late August.

The ballot has also been a problem for Biden this year in Alabama and Washington State. In early May, Alabama lawmakers unanimously passed a measure to ensure Biden had access to the ballot in the state. Officials in Washington, meanwhile, expressed openness to a provision that would allow Biden to appear on the states ballot.

What are Ohio lawmakers doing to get Biden on the ballot?

Republican legislators continue to differ on how to address the issue. State senators added the deadline fix to a child-care bill along with an additional unrelated measure that would ban foreign nationals from contributing to state ballot measures and approved its passage. House members amended a previously passed Senate bill with its own language on the nomination process. But neither chamber has come to an agreement on the matter. Theres just not the will to do that from the legislature, said Ohio house Speaker Jason Stephens on Tuesday.

In April, Frank LaRose, Ohios secretary of state wrote a letter to Ohio Democratic Party chairwoman Liz Walters, warning her about the conflict between the certification deadline and the Democratic convention. Following Stephenss comments, LaRose confirmed on Tuesday that Bidens ballot situation wont change without action from either the legislature or the party.

As it stands today, the Democratic Partys presidential nominee will not be on the Ohio ballot. That is not my choice. Its due to a conflict in the law created by the party, and the party has so far offered no legally acceptable remedy, LaRose said on X.

Then on Thursday, Governor DeWine, a Republican, took matters into his own hands, calling for a special session on Tuesday, May 28, to allow both chambers time to hash out the problem and find a solution. Ohio is running out of time to get the sitting President of the United States on the ballot this fall. Failing to do so is unacceptable, he said in a statement.
Taylor Swift has released three new editions of The Tortured Poets Department with live performances of loml The Alchemy and My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys. pic.twitter.com/TaHLGo16kC  Pop Base (@PopBase) May 23, 2024

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lmfaooo

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they're free on youtube!

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I finally understand the album title... turns out we're the poets tortured by all these releases

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shes the one who wont depart!

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The Tortured & Bloated Blow Hearts Department Era needs to end. No one's talking about it except her stans.

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So. How many is that now? I literally cant keep up

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ain't you tired dot gif

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My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys' sounds like a Melanie Martinez track

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the hand crawling lmaoooooo

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"    "

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Fuckkkk lmao I just this to my Swiftie best friend 

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This is genius I cant 

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This reminds me of the Beygency skit for SNL.





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Taylor is on absolute crack this era. She could've just sat there, ate her food, enjoyed her billion and charting success and glowing reviews and released an extra EP with all this bonus content...but this is...a lot.

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Hopefully someone will say something directly and it's so bad she goes into hiding again. Or make it worse 

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I still cannot believe that out of all her overestimated mediocre exes, Calvin fucking Harris is the one with a backbone lol what a plot twist.

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The album didnt get glowing reviews just to be clear

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She needs some backlash to release Rep TV properly, lol

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I can't imagine having all that money, resources, and privilege she has and STILL be so dissatisfied with life.

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But I wonder how some female celebs really feel about her when she does things like this. Cause Billie def took clear direct shots at Taylor over the variant business even though she denies it was aimed at Taylor.



Loser behavior as always.But I wonder how some female celebs really feel about her when she does things like this. Cause Billie def took clear direct shots at Taylor over the variant business even though she denies it was aimed at Taylor.

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The most hilarious shade to me is Taylors Fortnight remix with blond:ishan environmental activitist who founded the non profit Bye Bye Plastics. Like Taylor releasing that this week is sooooooo shady lol.



Both are releasing variants and special download versions this week  and Billie even gifted Kim Kardashian new album swag. Kim posted it on IG and Billie shared Kims post on her IG stories.



Like they are totally shading each other in silly ways. And Im just eating my popcorn watching

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GIRLS SAGITTARIUSES ARE FIGHTING!!    







FUCKING GET HER BILLIE!!



Edited at 2024-05-23 10:59 pm (UTC) THESAGITTARIUSES ARE FIGHTING!!    FUCKING GET HER BILLIE!!

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I don't know who that is but an environmentalist who willingly works with Taylor Swift is not an environmentalist.





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i will also add: i watched the zane lowe interview with billie and finneas, and one of the things they said was that they were kinda feeling themselves & that they had a lot to prove with "happier than ever" and that's why it was so bloated at *16 tracks*, lol. billie said "no one needs that". and then she also had this mini rant about how important artistic influence is on songwriting and the creative process and that artists should allow themselves to be influences and that's she tries to be very forgiving of young people making music.



both of those felt like subtle digs. but i also have pop culture brainworms, lol.

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i feel like billie is the only pop girl rn who can actually go toe to toe with taylor bc she has the artistry/ awards to back herself up

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Billie should go full diss track, if she cant then no one ever will.

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Taylor Swift just puts stuff out to put stuff out and theres no thought or meaning behind them but her fans just eat it up and invent things and she goes sure! And then the fans go crazy.



Its fucking annoying!

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Her fans really think she's some artistic genius too. None of her music has made any sort of impact (and her acting/directing is even worse). She will be remembered for the hysteria surrounding her, but not for any actual artistic output.

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I honestly believe swifties don't listen to other music. Is like people who call themselves bookworms, but they've only read Harry Potter.



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I said this in another post but her music is only seen as amazing because of the lore behind her songs. If she didnt create this backstory to everything, it wouldnt be seen as smart.

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i'd argue the slowed down and sped up versions billie released are more worthless than live versions and voice memos lol



but all of it is stupid

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This is what I realized with her latest release which, coincidentally, has cured me of my Swiftie-ism. I still can't finish that album it's so bad. So genuinely bad.

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There's no accountability when any valid criticism is written off as 'jealousy'.



Swifties are as thin-skinned as their idol.

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And just as deluded

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You only have to look at the way they go/have gone after Joe Alwyn, who doesn't seem to have done anything wrong at all??

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Time for billboard to step in and stop this chart manipulation

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I dont get how billboard hasnt already stepped in! the biggest commercial artist on their chart right now is blatantly playing in their face by creating new versions of her album with one (1!) additional song or voice note. Shes released 6 new versions this week alone.

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The first album you release is IT. Nothing else counts! (This is how I would change the charts.)

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Please tell me this man shares routines on youtube.

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He does! Im even a paid subscriber. Love him!



Some of my faves:















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Another roided up gay. You can always tell and it is not a good look.



At least to me.



I'm sure he gets laid a lot, though. 

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How much attention and money is enough for La Diabla Blanca

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Nothing ever will. She's the biggest she's ever been and it still not enough. Truly a miserable person.

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I survived the Eras era unscathed but this one turned me into a full blown hater. I just can't stand her anymore, or her fans.

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Its fun to watch the drama but at what point is enough?



Its actually kinda sad watching all these fans get robbed. Billboard really needs to fix the rules to stop this tyranny level shit.

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I'm bored, I hope she gets back together with Ratty

Someone needs to take her to an ayahuasca tri heal her insides and be happy with everything she already has.



Todavia hay esperanza Diabla Blanca 

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Anyone else remember this?





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'i don't know how any of that works! i just focus on the art!' god I can hear her say it

what a fake bitch

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Taylor is shameless but Billie is a hypocrite to complain about artists releasing extra versions of albums and then turning around and doing the same thing lmfao what a loser.

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In that interview she admitted that she's guilty of doing it too though? At least she owns her hypocrisy, unlike Zeena Swift.

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Na. Billie was talking about physical versions being a waste; not digital.

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Yeah but Billie has like 10 vinyl variants too. Shes actually released more physical vinyl variants than Taylor if you look at her web store. Though I think hers are at least made from recyclable materials.

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billie said it's "sad" that people care about numbers



she's young so she likes to pretend to be above industry games but she is absolutely playing them at the same time

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This is a 35-year-old woman who can't sit at home and enjoy her life, but has to still be the most popular girl from 9th grade. You can't tell me that she's not a miserable woman.



Edited at 2024-05-24 12:33 am (UTC)

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at the end of this tour this year, she should like, just lay low for a year or 2.

Let the fans miss you.

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never 4get:





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For years, the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs has been viewed as a critical element of reducing the more than seven billion metric tons of carbon dioxide (GtCO?) the global transport sector emits each year. The Biden-Harris administration has set an ambitious goal to have up to half of all new vehicle sales in the country electric by the year 2030 as part of the governments mission to achieve a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.

This gargantuan effort might be worth it: A 2021 study conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) comparing lifecycle emissions of ICE vs. EVs concluded that emissions over the lifetime of average medium-size [BEVs] registered today are already lower than comparable gasoline cars by 66%69% in Europe, 60-80% in the United States, 37%45% in China, and 19%34% in India.

However, as is usually the case with every technology, EVs have their drawbacks, too.

Not only does your average EV come with a higher sticker price than a comparable gasoline car but also an EV can lose as much as 12% of its range when temperatures drop to 20 degrees, a figure that shoots up to 40% if you turn on the cabin heater.

And now researchers have come up with yet another reason why you might want to rethink trading in your gas-guzzler for a shiny new EV: electric vehicles are more accident-prone. To wit, a study conducted by lead researcher Dr. Phil J. Edwards at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has found that pedestrians are twice as likely to be hit by an electric or hybrid car than by a gasoline- or diesel-powered vehicle.

Related: JPMorgan: Global AI Data Centers Will Consume Huge Amounts of Fresh Water

The study uncovered a pedestrian casualty rate of 5.16 per 100 million miles driven for electric and hybrid vehicles, more than double the 2.4 per 100 million miles recorded for traditional gasoline-powered cars. Insisting that the study is not meant to bash EVs, Dr. Edwards notes that "Electric cars are definitely a thing for the future. They are a wonderful way to reduce air pollution. But we must mitigate the danger" to pedestrians. EV drivers need to be extra cautious of pedestrians, he added.

The researchers have conceded that current crash statistics aren't yet robust enough to reach scientific conclusions. However, they have hypothesized that the relatively quiet operations of an electric vehicle as well as high pedestrian density in noisy urban areas could be major reasons, with pedestrians almost three times as likely to be hit by an electric or hybrid car in these areas. Dr. Edwards suspects that demographics could also play a role, noting that Younger, less experienced drivers are more likely to be involved in a road traffic collision and are also more likely to own an electric car.

Driverless Cars Safer Than Human Drivers

EVs currently account for less than 1% of vehicles on U.S. roads, implying human casualties associated with the industry are still much lower compared to those attributable to the fossil fuel industry. But with bold predictions that EVs could make up 60-70% of the U.S. fleet by 2050, the significantly higher propensity of electric propulsion to cause accidents could prove highly problematic.

Luckily, theres a handy solution: driverless cars. For years, autonomous driving buffs and experts claimed that driverless vehicles have the potential to be safer than humans. Unfortunately, those claims have remained unverified for the simple fact that theres not enough data available. That is, until now.

Last year, Googles Waymo analyzed 7.13 million fully driverless miles in Phoenix, Los Angeles and San Francisco cities. Waymo touts itself as the worlds first autonomous ride-hailing service, and its cars are fully electric. Waymo then compared the data to human driving benchmarks, marking the first time the company studied miles from fully driverless operations only, rather than a mix of autonomous and human-monitored driving.

The conclusion is very encouraging. Waymos driverless cars were 6.7 times less likely than human drivers to be involved in a crash resulting in an injury, good for a respectable 85% reduction over the human benchmark. These vehicles are also 2.3 times less likely to be in a police-reported crash, or a 57% reduction. Overall, this translates to ~17 fewer injuries and 20 fewer police-reported crashes compared to if a human driver would have driven the same distance in the cities where Waymo operates.

There seems to be little consensus regarding the time when autonomous vehicles will finally become an everyday reality on U.S. roads, with public distrust of autonomous driving technology a major hurdle. A Forbes Advisor report found that as many as 93% of U.S. citizens have concerns about some aspect of self-driving cars. However, the ongoing AI boom might help accelerate this technology and lower adoption timelines from decades to maybe less than a decade.

According to Micron Technology, AI is a critical technology required to realize autonomous driving. The extreme compute performance required for an autonomous vehicle based on AI requires an innovative memory and storage system to process and hold the vast amount of data necessary for a computer to make decisions like a human.

Even baby steps might help make EVs safer, with one McKinsey study showing that the growing adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in Europe could reduce the number of accidents by about 15% by 2030.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

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Equinor has made an oil discovery in the Svalin field in the North Sea, utilizing the Deepsea Aberdeen rig. The well, located in PL 169, has revealed between

RFE/RL and investigative partners say that Russia is deploying more forces to Libya, with 1,800 more troops arriving in recent weeks as it starts to strengthen its foothold on NATOs Mediterranean flank. That puts Russian troops worryingly close to the Italian coast. We would keep a close eye on developments in Libya with regard to the rival governments and external troop deployments. Russias flanking movements in more than one venue have prompted Poland and Greece to call on the EU to create an air defense field.

A Sri Lankan military commander is warning that Yemens Iran-backed Houthis now have Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUVs), representing a potentially disastrous escalation for energy markets in one of the world's most critical energy transit points (with 12% of seaborne crude and 8% of LNG passing through Bab al-Mandab). This poses a much more direct threat to the US-led coalition naval forces now patrolling the Red Sea.

On the US election front, Trump has promised that if he is elected, Putin will immediately release an American journalist being held in prison in Russia. The statement made viral headlines and sounded like a pledge of allegiance but was denied by Moscow, which said no such discussions had taken place.

Politics, Geopolitics & Conflict

On the US election front, Trump has promised that if he is elected, Putin will immediately release an American journalist being held in prison in Russia. The statement made viral headlines and sounded like a pledge of allegiance but was denied by Moscow, which said no such discussions had taken place.

A Sri Lankan military commander is warning that Yemens Iran-backed Houthis now have Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUVs), representing a potentially disastrous escalation for energy markets in one of the world's most critical energy transit points (with 12% of seaborne crude and 8% of LNG passing through Bab al-Mandab). This poses a much more direct threat to the US-led coalition naval forces now patrolling the Red Sea.

RFE/RL and investigative partners say that Russia is deploying more forces to Libya, with 1,800 more troops arriving in recent weeks as it starts to strengthen its foothold on NATOs Mediterranean flank. That puts Russian troops worryingly close to the Italian coast. We would keep a close eye on developments in Libya with regard to the rival governments and external troop deployments. Russias flanking movements in more than one venue have prompted Poland and Greece to call on the EU to create an air defense field.

Discovery & Development

Equinor has made an oil discovery in the Svalin field in the North Sea, utilizing the Deepsea Aberdeen rig. The well, located in PL 169, has revealed between 0 and 0.6 million barrels of recoverable oil equivalent. Equinor, holding a 57% stake in the license, along with partners Petoro and Var Energi, will evaluate the discovery's commercial viability. This find follows a recent $121 million contract extension for the Deepsea Aberdeen rig.

BW Energy has announced a significant oil discovery at the Dussafu license offshore Gabon, utilizing Borr Drilling's Norve jack-up rig. The DHIBM-7P pilot well, drilled to a depth of 3,941 meters, revealed a 24-meter oil pay zone, enhancing the estimated reserves in the Hibiscus field. BW Energy aims to complete the well as a production site later this year. The discovery aligns with broader trends in African hydrocarbon exploration, with several countries poised to expand their LNG production capacities by 2035.

Turkey's Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar hinted at a potential oil discovery in the Black Sea, complementing the significant gas reserves already present there. The Sakarya gas field, producing 4.5 million cubic meters per day, demonstrates the region's potential to significantly impact the countrys energy independence. Additionally, oil output in the Gabar region has reached 42,500 barrels per day, with plans to increase this to 100,000 barrels by the end of 2024. These developments are part of Turkeys broader strategy to reduce reliance on energy imports and improve its current account deficit through domestic production.

Perenco's subsidiary MIOC has achieved the first offshore oil discovery in nearly 30 years in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with a find at the Moke-East well. Utilizing the Nuada jack-up rig, the well encountered a 24-foot net oil-bearing column, marking a significant milestone in the DRC's coastal basin. This discovery follows Perenco's recent $300 million acquisition of Eni's oil permits in Congo and complements their broader exploration activities in Africa and Brazil.

Deals, Mergers, & Acquisitions

Exxon Mobil and Shell are evaluating bids for a 40% stake in Galp Energias Mopane oil field offshore Namibia, valued at around $20 billion based on Galp's estimates. TotalEnergies and Equinor are also interested in acquiring part of Galp's 80% holding in this promising discovery. Galp's shares surged after announcing a significant potential find in the Mopane field, highlighting Namibia as an emerging hotspot for oil exploration. The sale process, managed by a financial adviser, is in its early stages with first-round bids expected by mid-June.

3R Petroleum and Enauta have agreed to merge in a $1.2 billion deal, forming a new independent oil and gas company in Latin America. The merged entity is projected to have a production capacity exceeding 100,000 bpd and 2P reserves surpassing 700 million barrels. Post-merger, 3R will hold a 53% stake, with Enauta shareholders owning the remaining 47%.

Hess Corporation is facing three lawsuits in the United States over alleged lack of transparency regarding its $60 billion merger with Chevron. These lawsuits seek to block the merger until Hess addresses disclosure issues in its SEC filings, particularly an April 26 proxy statement. In response, Hess added new details to the proxy statement to address the claims and avoid further delays but maintains that the lawsuits are baseless.

Gabon Oil Company has signed a 6-month deal with Premier Invest to raise $1.2 billion for the purposes of acquiring Gabon oil producer Assala Energy and its assets, currently held by U.S.-based Carlyle. Assets will include 7 OPL, a pipeline network, and an export terminal in Gabon.

Phillips 66 has agreed to acquire Pinnacle Midland Parent LLC from Energy Spectrum Capital for $550 million in cash to enhance its midstream operations in the Permian Basin. The acquisition, expected to close by mid-2024, includes the Dos Picos natural gas gathering and processing system, which has a processing capacity of 220 MMcf/d and an 80-mile pipeline. The transaction aligns with Phillips 66s strategy to expand its natural gas liquids value chain and integrate it into its existing infrastructure. This deal is subject to federal antitrust review.

Adnoc has made its first U.S. acquisition by purchasing an 11.7% stake in the first phase of NextDecade Corp.s Rio Grande LNG project in Texas. This deal secures Adnoc an annual supply of 1.9 million tons of LNG from the planned fourth train of the project. The acquisition is part of Adnocs broader international expansion strategy, which includes potential investments in Europe and efforts to create a $30 billion petrochemical giant. This move aligns with the UAE's goal to diversify its energy portfolio and enhance its global presence in the LNG market.
The death of Iranian President Raisi in a helicopter crash last weekend is not likely to have any immediate impact on the regime itself in terms of the proxy war with Israel, hyper-intense relations with the U.S., or throngs of activists hoping to seed some growth for change.

The Iranian regime will maintain its current policies and activities without missing a beat.

No blame has been laid as an investigation into the cause of the crash continued all week, most likely ruling out the development as being used for geopolitical leverage with either the U.S. or Israel.

Speculation, of course, has soared, that either Israel or the U.S. engineered the crash, or that it was the work of Balochistan militants  or even that it was an inside job at a time when the Supreme Leaders succession is on the agenda. In the end, it could have just been what it looks like - an accident, possibly helped along by aging helicopters deprived by sanctions of parts.

With the momentum lost and the chaos this creates in the halls of power in Tehran, there is little opportunity now to create a geopolitical scenario out of Raisis death. Oil prices have already written the event off the books, responding upwards only briefly on Sunday following news of Raisis crash but losing traction soon afterward.

The bigger question now shifts a bit away from Israel and toward the Gulf countries and a U.S. missile defense pact 

This week, American officials attended a summit
The oil industry is contributing millions to the Trump presidential campaign, helping the Republican candidate top his rival Joe Biden's campaign war chest. And the Biden admin did a lot of this to itself.

Bloomberg reported this week that the Trump campaign had raised a total of $76 million last month, which compared to a much lower $51 million for Biden. Per the New York Times, the Trump campaign has raised $7.3 million from the oil industry since the start of the year. And they are organizing events to help raise even more money ahead of the November elections.

A lot of oil tycoons have been supporters of the Republican party. It is a sort of a tradition. But now, this support has become more marked in light of the Biden administration's energy policiesespecially some of them.

According to the New York Times, whose authors spoke to industry sources, the oil and gas industry took the pause on new LNG terminal approvals rather hard. It appears to have taken it even harder than it took the IRA, the restrictions on federal land drilling, and offshore lease curbs. So it is getting behind Trump who has made it clear repeatedly that he is a big fan of hydrocarbons.

The president of the American Energy Alliance explained to the NYT that the LNG permit pause was "a wake-up call" for the industry, spurring it into action. "He could be potentially icing billions of dollars in long-term L.N.G. contracts. That's real. That's tangible," Thomas Pyle said.

Related: The Market's Sleepiest Sector Becomes Top Winner of the AI Boom

Bloomberg, meanwhile, reports that a group of oil executives, including Continental's Harold Hamm, Occidental's Vicki Hollub, and Kelcy Warren, the chairman of Energy Transfer, were organizing a fundraising luncheon this week, eyeing a sum of about $26 million for the Trump campaign.

The Bloomberg authors argue that Trump was inconsistent in his energy policies during is previous term as president. The argument implies oil executives would better think twice before pledging their support for him and giving his campaign money. The argument noted Trump's asking OPEC for more production and ending some policies that the oil industry did not want to end.

Yet, while Trump was a notoriously unpredictable president as a whole, his support for oil and gas was, in fact, quite consistent. That notably includes the first round of pandemic lockdowns when he managed to broker a production cut deal with OPEC+ to avoid a further decline in oil prices that were already decimated by the slump in demand.

Biden, conversely, has been consistently seeking to hurt the U.S. oil and gas industryand he also asked OPEC for more production during the 2022 price rally. He did approve the Willow project, which is arguably one of the worst decisions he could make with a view to his main voter base, but he also signed that "pause" in new LNG terminal approvals.

His administration also tried to curb offshore leasing and decimated the amount of offshore acreage to be made available to the industry over the next five years. It also pledged billions in financial support to EVs, wind, and solardirect though not really comparable rivals to oil and gas.

Many media authors, when faced with the Biden administration's energy policies record note that U.S. oil and gas production surged to new highs during the Biden administration. This is correctonly growth in production was slower than it was under Trump, and the argument could made that the industry expanded its output, not thanks to but despite, Biden administration policies over the past four years.

It is natural for the oil industry to be funding the candidate that, which unpredictable as a whole, has very predictably signaled he will be in the corner of oil and gas in the transition match. It was also to be expectedBiden signed a pledge to not accept any donations above $200 from any oil executive.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Despite a bold climate stance, Colombia is looking to increase its oil production to 1 million barrels per day by encouraging drillers to ramp up activity in underutilized exploration blocks, according to the country's energy ministry.

Energy Minister Andres Camacho emphasized the government's strategy to revitalize "lazy contracts"agreements signed 10 to 15 years ago that have so far seen minimal exploration efforts. Camacho believes this approach can elevate production to approximately 800,000 bpd by year-end, a rise from the Q1 average of 774,000 bpd.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has made bold commitments to combat climate change by halting new drilling licenses in country and moving away from oil and gas in favor of green alternativesa stance that would seem in opposition to the push to eke out oil from existing contracts.

But according to Camacho, "Increasing the number of contracts does not necessarily lead to more exploration," Camacho stated in Bogota, highlighting the policy to boost exploration within current agreements. Nevertheless, if successful, it will lead to more output for the country that already has oil and coal accounting for half of its total exports.

The National Hydrocarbons Agency has implemented stringent requirements for contract compliance to prevent companies from signing contracts just to resell them at higher prices without conducting any actual explorationa practice that could stifle future oil production.

State oil company Ecopetrol SA is contributing to the output increase through enhanced oil recovery techniques, improving extraction volumes from reservoirs. Colombia's current oil recovery rate averages 27 percent, according to Camacho.

The National Hydrocarbons Agency vowed to release a report today on the country's oil and gas reserves, noting that as of the end of 2022, proven oil reserves stood at the equivalent of 7.5 years and natural gas reserves at 7.2 years.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Exxon has signed a deal with the Algerian government for exploration at two natural gas fields in the North African country.

The supermajor, in partnership with Algerias state energy firm Sonatrach, will "study the existing opportunities to develop the hydrocarbon resources in the Ahnet basin and the Gourara basin" in the southern part of the country, the New Arab reported.

Details about the amount of the investment were not disclosed by the companies. Information about the potential resources in the two basins was also not disclosed. The agreement is preliminary but it could become a firm commitment if exploration work yields positive results.

Algeria is a large natural gas producer and wants to become an even larger one. Talks about the participation of U.S. supermajors in this expansion emerged last year when the Wall Street Journal reported that Exxon and Chevron were in advanced talks on exploration and production deals in the North African nation.

By early 2024, there was still no news of a deal but it appears that now talks have finally produced a result with one of the U.S. supermajors.

Algeria holds huge conventional natural gas reserves, and it is also estimated to have the thirdlargest shale gas reserves in the world after China and Argentina.

Most of Algerias gas exports are heading to Europe, which is increasingly betting on Africa to import large volumes of pipeline gas and LNG to replace pipeline gas supply from Russia, which was Europes top gas supplier before the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Italys energy major, Eni, has been particularly active in securing more natural gas supply for Europe from Africa and has fast-tracked projects in Africa to meet Europes gas demand in the absence of Russian pipeline deliveries.

Earlier this year, the biggest LNG import terminal, in the UK, secured a 10-year gas supply deal with Algerias Sonatrach.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Oil executives contributed to Donald Trumps fundraising efforts, which raised as much as $40 million in Texas alone this week, people who attended the events and are familiar with the fundraising haul told Bloomberg.

Continental Resources chair Harold Hamm and Occidental Petroleums chief executive Vicki Hollub were among the attendees of a fundraising event in Houston on Wednesday, Bloombergs sources said.

Trump, however, didnt elaborate too much on energy issues during his speech, and one billionaire oil executive told Bloomberg he left the event early due to a lack of discussion of specific energy issues.

The oil industry is contributing millions of U.S. dollars to the Trump presidential campaign, helping the presumptive Republican nominee top his rival Joe Bidens campaign war chest in April.

Bloomberg reported this week that the Trump campaign raised a total of $76 million last month, which compared to $51 million for Biden. Per the New York Times, the Trump campaign has raised $7.3 million from the oil industry since the start of the year. And they are organizing events to help raise even more money ahead of the November elections.

A lot of oil tycoons have been supporters of the Republican Party. But now, this support has become more marked in light of the Biden Administration's energy policiesespecially some of them, which have reduced federal leasing for oil and gas drilling and introduced stricter emissions regulations.

Trump has asked executives of some of the largest U.S. oil producers to raise $1 billion for his campaign to return to the White House and promised to scrap many of the Biden Administrations environmental policies, the Washington Post reported exclusively earlier this month, quoting sources familiar with a meeting.

Trump met with the top industry executives at his Mar-a-Lago Club in April to hear the grievances of the American oil industry, which has constantly criticized the energy policies of President Biden, focused on reducing emissions and promoting clean energy sources.

Trumps response to the executives, You all are wealthy enough, he said, that you should raise $1 billion to return me to the White House, the Washington Post quoted the sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe a private conversation.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The OPEC+ alliance will hold its meeting in early June a day later than initially planned and via a video conference instead of in person, OPEC said on Friday.

All meetings previously planned to take place in person in Vienna on June 1 will now be held online on June 2.

The three key meetings that will be now held via video conference are the meeting of the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC), the panel monitoring market developments and potentially recommending actions to the ministers to take, the meeting of the OPEC ministers, and finally, the meeting of the ministers of the wider OPEC+ coalition.

The meetings are expected to be smooth, delegates told Amena Bakr, Senior Research Analyst at Energy Intelligence, on Friday.

The fact that the OPEC+ meetings will be held online suggests that the producers in the pact have more or less reached an agreement about how to proceed with the current oil production cuts, analysts say.

OPEC+ is currently keeping around 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) off the market in a deal expiring at the end of June. The alliance will decide at the meetings on June 2 whether to roll over all or part of the production cuts into the second half of the year.

The OPEC+ group is likely to fully roll over the current cuts until the end of the year, analysts reckon, as oil prices are still rangebound, with Brent Crude stuck in the low $80s, after the slide in the past five weeks due to eased tensions in the Middle East.

Crude oil prices continue to drift lower, trading near a three-month low amid signs of demand weakness, Saxo Bank said in a market commentary note early on Friday, adding that a rollover of current production cuts remains the most likely outcome of the OPEC+ meeting.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Teslas Shanghai Megapack energy storage plant breaks ground, a vivid example of China-US win-win cooperation rebutting Washingtons overcapacity hype

Global Times) 08:44, May 24, 2024

US electric car producer Tesla broke ground on a megafactory in Shanghai on Thursday, marking the company's first energy storage system factory outside the US to manufacture its energy storage batteries known as Megapacks.

Observers said that the factory signifies another vivid example of how industrial and technological cooperation between China and the US can lead to a win-win result. It underscores that, despite escalating trade tensions and discord in bilateral relations instigated by Washington, US businesses are taking a pragmatic approach to make business decisions and highly value the competitiveness of Chinese new energy industries. It is also a strong rebuttal to the "overcapacity" narrative hyped by some Western politicians and media outlets, experts said.

The project is another major investment for Tesla in China following the inauguration of its Shanghai Gigafactory in 2019, which Tesla deemed as "opening a new chapter" in China. It came after Tesla's CEO Elon Musk visited China on April 29, during which he met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and stressed that "Tesla is willing to deepen cooperation with China and achieve more win-win results."

The initial plan for the project is to produce over 10,000 units of super-large-scale electrochemical commercial energy storage systems annually. Mass production is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony, Shanghai Lingang Economic Development Group and Tesla signed a contract for China's first batch of these energy storage systems, according to Xinhua News Agency. The negotiation and signing of the Shanghai Energy Storage Gigafactory contract took only one month, once again setting a record for the "Lingang speed."

The new factory covers an area of approximately 200,000 square meters with a total investment of around 1.45 billion yuan ($200.21 million), and aims to export products to overseas markets, including the Asia-Pacific region, to support the global "green future," Xinhua reported.

Despite the US intensifying its crackdown on China's new energy vehicle sector, Tesla has chosen to further invest in the Chinese market. This highlights industry leaders' robust confidence in China's high-tech advancement and its vast market, signifying that China's market continues to exert strong appeal for foreign investment, Li Yong, a senior research fellow at the China Association of International Trade, told the Global Times on Thursday.

Li stressed that the decision was based on a favorable investment environment, promising growth prospects, and profitable development trends. China possesses advanced energy storage technology and a well-established, stable supply chain, which are key reasons for Tesla's choice to establish its factories in Shanghai.

"The ongoing advancement of related industries in China into cutting-edge sectors signifies vast potential for foreign companies," Li added.

Tesla's Vice President, Tao Lin, said in the Xinhua report that the significance of Tesla's energy storage business now rises on par with its well-known electric vehicles. She also highlighted China's strong industrial system, market potential, resilient economy, and favorable business environment.

Tesla's decision to build its second energy storage super factory in Shanghai is also driven by the faster construction speed in China and the global supply constraints related to lithium iron phosphate battery cells. Currently, only China possesses large-scale production capacity for this key raw material in energy storage batteries, industry insiders said.

Experts said the latest mega project signifies the ongoing stride of this industry giant's investment and cooperation with China, serving as a strong rebuttal to rhetoric that foreign investment is withdrawing from China, and the overcapacity hype about China's NEV industry.

Chinese officials have made concrete pledges that the country's door to the outside world will open wider and wider. Chinese Premier Li Qiang promised in the meeting with Musk that China's market will always be open to foreign-funded firms.

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) stated on Thursday that China will unswervingly promote high-level opening-up, and the Chinese government holds a consistent attitude of welcoming foreign companies to invest and creating a fair and predictable environment for them.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Saudi oil giant Aramco has approached Repsol to express interest in buying a minority stake in the Spanish energy firms renewables business, Spains business daily Expansion reported on Friday, quoting several market sources.

The entire Repsol Renovables, or Repsol Renewables, is valued at around $6.5 billion (6 billion euros).

Aramco has approached Repsol about a potential acquisition of a minority stake in Repsol Renewables but hasnt filed a formal offer yet, according to Expansions sources.

Repsol has recently received an unsolicited approach from an investor willing to buy a minority stake in its renewables unit. The Spanish firm is in talks to sell a small stake in Repsol Renovables, sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters earlier this month.

Repsol has also retained Spanish banking giant Santander to act as an advisor for the potential sale, the sources told Reuters.

At any rate, Repsol will keep more than 50% of its renewables business.

Two years ago, Repsol sold 25% of Repsol Renovables to Credit Agricole Assurances and Energy Infrastructure Partners (EIP) for $979 million (905 million euros).

Last month, Repsol said it would invest $3.2 billion to $4.3 billion (3 billion euros to 4 billion euros) net to organically develop its global portfolio of renewable projects and reach between 9,000 MW and 10,000 MW of installed capacity by 2027. Of this figure, 30% will be in the United States.

Saudi Aramco, for its part, is currently eyeing potential investments in new energies outside Saudi Arabia, the state oil giants chief executive officer Amin Nasser said at the end of April.

Apart from deals in the refining and petrochemicals segment, especially in its key crude export market, China, Aramco is looking to invest in the development of new technologies and new energies, including in collaboration with partners outside the Kingdom.

Early this year, Aramco more than doubled funding to its venture capital arm by injecting an additional $4 billion funding. The fresh funding is raising Aramcos total investment allocation to its unit Aramco Ventures from $3 billion to $7 billion.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The government-owned Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is in talks with South African ministries to set up an office to manage auctions of power transmission projects, a bank executive told Bloomberg in an interview published on Friday.

The bank is discussing with government departments the setting up of the office that is expected to bring private funding to link up renewable energy sources to the transmission grid. This needs to be signed off by the different parties within government, Michael Hillary, the DBSAs group executive for financing operations, told Bloomberg.

The DBSA is a government-owned development finance institution, established in 1983, with the mandate to promote economic growth and regional integration for sustainable development projects and programs across the African continent.

The bank has previously created the Independent Power Producer Office, which it handed over to South Africas Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. The Independent Power Producer Office has helped the development of utility-scale wind and solar power projects across South Africa.

Eskom, the state-owned utility of South Africa, is currently 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 last month.

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.

Eskom plans to operate some coal-fired power plants for longer than initially envisaged to avoid making an already vulnerable grid more unreliable, the companys CEO Dan Marokane said earlier this week.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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The United Arab Emirates is set to achieve its oil production capacity goal ahead of schedule, with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. (Adnoc) expected to reach a capacity of 5 million barrels per day by the end of 2025 or early 2026, surpassing its original target of 2027, according to anonymous sources who spoke to Bloomberg.

This accelerated timeline is anticipated to create friction within the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+), which will review member capacities later this year to set production baselines for 2025.

Currently, Abu Dhabi is producing around two-thirds of its capacity, but the government-owned Adnoc is aggressively expanding its drilling activities and enhancing its infrastructure to maximize output. The company's $150 billion investment plan aims to expedite capacity additions, ensuring that the increased production capabilities do not remain underutilized.

Earlier this month, Adnoc quietly updated its maximum crude oil production capacity figure on its website, without making an official announcement. Its current capacity, according to that updated figure, is 4.85 million bpdup from the 4.65 million bpd.

The UAEs oil production fell in March, according to OPECs secondary sources, as the OPEC+ group struggles to bring down production to agreed upon levels. Moving up its capacity addition timetable could heighten tensions within OPEC+, particularly with Saudi Arabia, ahead of the groups meeting scheduled to take place this weekend.

The UAEOPECs third-largest producerhas clashed with the OPEC group in the past as it is anxiously waiting to boost its oil production and tap its increased capacity. Last summer, the UAE said it would not join in OPECs voluntary production cuts and has argued for years that it should be allowed to pump more as it lifts its production capacity. And last June, OPEC+ caved and revised the UAEs quota up to 3.219 million bpd for 2024.

Despite this potential discord, the UAE remains focused on leveraging its oil resources to bolster its economy, which, while diversified, still relies significantly on crude exports.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Im not sure Ive seen a stranger roll call than last weeks House vote on Senate Bill 2978. The data privacy bill is an initiative of Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, and he was on the House floor during the debate.

The far-right ginned up social media opposition to the bill by claiming that it would allow non-citizens to vote. More than 1,400 electronic witness slips have so far been filed in opposition.

Groups like the Illinois Freedom Alliance and the Illinois Conservative Union claimed on Facebook that the bill will interfere with verification of citizenship of voters. The Illinois Family Institute went even further in a recent email blast, claiming, As it is written, this bill will likely be used to allow non-citizens to vote in our elections.

Accusations from the far-right that Democrats will use the votes of undocumented residents to steal the 2024 election have gained significant national traction over the past months. Usually, no evidence is presented, and you can chalk up this latest freakout to yet another misunderstanding of the basic lawmaking process.

The offending language is actually already in state statute, an official with the secretary of states office explained during a House Executive Committee hearing last week. The bill drafters simply recodified it. A search of state statutes shows those claims to be accurate.

The official also said that the secretary of state voter registration system does prevent anybody that is not provided citizenship information from being transmitted to register to vote.

But the loud, conspiracy-minded opposition stampeded Republican committee members away from the bill, and so it passed the committee on a partisan roll call.

The ACLU of Illinois is also strongly opposed to the bill, but for an entirely different reason.

The civil liberties group claims the measure could be read as permitting data-sharing with federal or out-of-state law enforcement who are investigating or enforcing laws that criminalize abortion or gender-affirming care in other jurisdictions.

"We believe that the bill should be amended to be clear that our data should not be used to identify people seeking, providing, or assisting with reproductive or gender-affirming care  health care Illinois has made a policy decision to protect," The ACLU IL continued. "This could be accomplished by enacting protections similar to last years automated license plate reader bill."

Secretary Giannoulias never convinced the group to drop its opposition.

Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago), a legislative leader on abortion and trans rights, rose in debate to point out that, Indiana law enforcement could ask the secretary to provide information related to an Illinois license plate on a car used in connection with an Indiana resident accessing abortion care in Illinois.

Rep. Cassidy also objected to the bill by noting that it does not have the same standard language inserted several times in other bills to make it explicitly clear that the data would not be used to identify people seeking, providing or assisting with lawful health care. She also said she was deeply concerned that the data could be sold, given that that's allowed as well.

In a shocking defeat, the entire Republican caucus and three House Democrats voted No, while numerous other Democrats skipped the vote. The bill wound up with 57 votes, three shy of passage, as Secretary Giannoulias looked on. I dont think Ive ever seen a legislative chamber reject a bill supported by a statewide officeholder while that official was standing among the members.

The sponsor, Rep. Margaret Croke (D-Chicago), put it on whats called Postponed Consideration, meaning she could bring the bill up for a vote again. Some House Democrats were legitimately absent, but this bill needs to be retooled.
Sometimes the truth is hidden in plain sight. The eastern provinces of Ukraine are populated by people who are historically and culturally connected to Russia, not Ukraine. The people there speak Russian as their first language. Ukraine would be wise to let them secede and formally become a part of Russia. This would be in return for a permanent truce between Russia and Ukraine.

This option became available long before the current hostilities began. Since the seemingly endless current war in Ukraine is at a stalemate this is the time for America to tell our ally: give up your eastern provinces and accept a permanent truce. Enough lives and dollars have been spent on a war you can't win.

We in Illinois should be asking our members of Congress and President Biden to send this message to Kiev and to send it with the warning that America won't sign any more blank checks.

Gary Davis, Lincoln
The biased liberal media has really amped up of late, probably concerned that their guy wont be in the White House next time around. The lead stories on the major network evening news tend to focus on the prior Presidents legal battles. I now understand what is meant by the term Trump derangement syndrome.

The really big issue out there that isnt getting much attention is the current Presidents failure to serve and protect our nation. Since Joe Biden opened our southern border and welcomed in undesirables from far-away places, he is now accountable for every crime they commit on our soil.

The typical liberal-in-denial response to migrant crime is that its performed at a lesser rate than the American norm. We already have enough crime to deal with in this country. Why would we want additional criminals crossing our borders?

I see that story is dead concerning Joe Biden being labeled a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory by a special counsel official looking into a classified document storage issue. If a report came out like that on a sitting Republican President, do you think that the liberal mainstream media would let that go? Needless to say, there would be an ongoing outcry to impeach highlighted in your daily news.

Appearances matter. Due to Joe Bidens confused and incoherent mannerisms at times in public, he appears weak. JFK appeared weak to Nikita Krushchev, and the Cuban missile crisis followed. Came close to resulting in a nuclear war. Neville Chamberlain appeared weak, and Nazi Germany followed with aggression leading to a world war. Biden exhibits weakness, and Russia invades Ukraine and threatens NATO.

This is not the ideal image for the leader of the free world. Losing the respect of our enemies can be disastrous.

Rick Skelley, Bloomington
Minister for Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has cautioned against the recent panic-driven rush for foreign exchange in the country that has seen the Cedi lose grounds against its major trading partners.



Speaking during the Ministry of Finances Monthly Economic Update on Friday, May 24, 2024, the Minister attributed the current exchange rate pressures to the strengthening of the US Dollar against major trading currencies, seasonal forex demand, and other temporary factors affirming that the government is implementing robust measures to ensure continued stability.



"There is no need to rush and buy forex," the Finance Minister declared, pointing to an anticipated inflow of at least $2.32 billion by the end of the year. He highlighted multiple sources of these inflows, including disbursements from the IMF and World Bank, the Gold-for-Oil Programme, the Bank of Ghanas (BoG) Gold for Reserves programme, and proceeds from the Cocoa Syndicated Funds.



We expect total disbursements of at least US$2.32 billion before the end of the year to add to the significant foreign exchange reserves already built up by the BoG, he added.



He acknowledged recent pressures but remained optimistic about the medium-term stability of the Cedi with a cumulative depreciation of 14.2% as of 20th May 2024, compared to 20.7% recorded in the same period in 2023.



Dr Amin Adam maintained that the Cedi is expected to be largely stable and improve in the medium term as the government completes its debt restructuring, makes more progress on fiscal consolidation, and improves the countrys reserves over the same period.



The Minister also detailed the progress made under the IMF-Supported Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG). Following a successful 2nd Review Mission by the IMF in April 2024, Ghana secured a Staff Level Agreement (SLA), paving the way for the IMF Executive Board to consider and approve the disbursement of a third tranche of $360 million in June, bringing total disbursements to $1.56 billion.



The positive results of the first and second reviews of the implementation of the IMF-supported Programme testify that we are achieving the Programmes objective of restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability, the Minister remarked.



He noted the resilience of the economy, citing a 2.9% GDP growth in 2023, surpassing both the original projection of 1.5% and the revised projection of 2.3%.



The Minister assured that the Ministry of Finance is working closely with the BoG to implement measures to address the perennial depreciation of the Cedi, including fast-tracking fiscal consolidation, intensifying the Gold-for-Oil and Gold for Reserves programmes, and strategic FX interventions by the BoG.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Tens of thousands of genetically modified (GMO) mosquitoes have been released in Djibouti in an effort to stop the spread of an invasive species that transmits malaria.



The friendly non-biting male Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes, developed by Oxitec, a UK-based biotechnology company, carry a gene that kills female offspring before they reach maturity.



Only female mosquitoes bite and transmit malaria and other viral diseases.



It is the first time such mosquitoes have been released in East Africa and the second time in the continent.

Similar technology has been successfully used in Brazil, the Cayman Islands, Panama, and India, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).



More than one billion such mosquitoes have been released around the world since 2019, CDC says.



The first batch of the mosquitoes were released into the open air on Thursday in Ambouli, a suburb of Djibouti city.



It is a pilot phase in a partnership between Oxitec Ltd, Djiboutis government and Association Mutualis, an NGO.



We have built good mosquitoes that do not bite, that do not transmit disease. And when we release these friendly mosquitoes, they seek out and mate with wild type female mosquitoes, Oxitec head Grey Frandsen told the BBC.



The laboratory-produced mosquitoes carry a "self-limiting" gene that prevents female mosquito offspring from surviving to adulthood when they mate.



Only their male offspring survive but would eventually die out, according to the scientists behind the project.



Unlike the sterile male Anopheles colluzzi mosquitoes released in Burkina Faso in 2018, the friendly stephensi mosquitoes can still have offspring.



The release is part of the Djibouti Friendly Mosquito Program which was started two years ago to stop the spread of Anopheles stephensi, an invasive species of mosquito first detected in the country in 2012.



The country was then on the verge of eliminating malaria, when it recorded close to 30 malaria cases. Since then, malaria cases have risen exponentially in the country to 73,000 by 2020.



The species is now present in six other African countries - Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Sudan, Nigeria and Ghana.



The Stephensi species, originally from Asia, is very difficult to control. It is also referred to as an urban mosquito that has outsmarted traditional methods of control. It bites both during the day and at night and is resistant to chemical insecticides.



Dr Abdoulilah Ahmed Abdi, a presidential health adviser in Djibouti, told the Financial Times news website that the governments objective was to urgently reverse malaria transmission in Djibouti, which has spiked over the past decade.



Not long ago, it [malaria] was extremely rare in our communities," said Association Mutualis director Dr Bouh Abdi Khaireh.



"Now we see malaria patients suffer on a daily basis across Djibouti. There is an urgent need for new interventions.



It has been easy to roll out the new anti-malaria project due to Djibouti's small size, a mostly urban country of slightly over a million people, the organisers said.



Malaria is a serious disease that really affects our health. People are really waiting to see how these friendly mosquitoes will help us win the fight, Saada Ismael, a malaria survivor who took part in the community preparation, told the BBC.



Genetically modified organisms have always been a controversial subject in Africa. Environmental groups and campaigners have warned of consequences to ecosystems and existing food chains.



But Mr Frandsen from Oxitec says no adverse effects on environmental or human health has been documented for over 10 years, during which the developer of biological solutions has released a billion modified mosquitoes.



Our focus is ensuring that whatever we release in the environment is safe, and highly effective. There is no environmental impact. They are non-toxic, non-allergenic and species specific, he added.



The genetically modified genes are not found in the mosquitoes saliva and according to Oxitec, even a person who is bitten by one will not be exposed to the effects of the genes.



"This new solution may be controversial but it is the future, said presidential health adviser Dr Abdi.



If successful, larger field trials and eventual operational deployment of the mosquitoes will continue until next year in the country.



Malaria is a deadly disease that kills at least 600,000 people every year globally. Nine in 10 of all deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the World Health Organization.

Source: BBC









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The Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Kathleen Addy, has cautioned the electorate to desist from demanding money from politicians as a form of bribe in exchange for their votes.



According to Ms. Addy, this negative development is slowly gaining ground in the country as the electorate on several occasions have been seen aggressively demanding money from politicians in exchange for their votes. This, she said, was a threat to the countrys democracy.



This year we are seeing more and more of that. It is worrying, it is disturbing and it is a very negative development and very unfortunate. As we grow in our democracy, we should be getting stronger. The democratic culture should be better rooted, and we should move away from negative things.



But when it comes to money and politics, it looks like the more we mature in democracy the more we make it about money, and this is completely wrong, she said.



Ms. Addy further indicated that this practice distorts the democratic process, as votes are no longer based on political beliefs or policies but on financial transactions, adding that the practice undermines accountability, as politicians may feel less responsible to their constituents and more beholden to those who funded their campaign.



Money shared by politicians is never free money. It comes from someplace and goes back to that place with interest. Let us stop making demands for money from political actors so that we can hold them accountable for the things that are important to us, she added.



She encouraged the electorate to exercise their right on December 7 to help elect competent leaders for the nation.



She made these assertions at the media briefing on the commencement of activities of Inter-Party Dialogue Committees (IPDCs) for Election 2024 under the theme, Together We Can Build Ghana, So Get Involved in Accra.



The spokesperson of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu called on the youth to reject any offers from political actors to perpetuate any form of violence during, before, and after the December 7 election.



I speak to the people of our country that no politician is worth the blood of any young person. This year let no blood drop on the surface of our land in the name of politics. We must eschew violence, he said.



Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu bemoaned some isolated reports of violence among party enthusiasts in the limited voter registration exercise, adding, Just limited voter registration recorded violence where some people were cut due to cutlass fights. So if this is how we have begun then December 2024 what are we envisaging?

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









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

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The Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko, has given the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation his fullest assurance that, his office will ensure he succeeds.



The Minister said this when GNPC boss, Mr. Joseph Dadzie and some of his management members paid a courtesy call on him in Takoradi. The visit was for Mr, Dadzie to officially introduce himself to the Minister and the Western Regional Coordinating Council as the new head of the Ghana national oil company.



Joseph Dadzie took office on May 2, 2024 after his predecessor Opoku-Ahweneeh Danquah resigned as the CEO of the Corporation.



Mr Kwabena Okyere Darko in his remarks reminded the GNPC boss of the critical role the Corporation plays in the governance of the country. He noted that the success of the government in the Western Region depends on GNPC.



The Regional Minister said it is for this reason that he will implore the new CEO to ensure that all developmental projects started by GNPC in the region and have been stalled, are completed.



According to him, Joseph Dadzie should see himself as the CEO who is going to score the goal for the government in the 2024 elections.Joe Dadzie meets Western RCC



As President Nana Akufo-Addo readies to commission the ultra-modern Operational Headquarters of the GNPC in Takoradi, the Regional Minister advocated that new staff recruitment to supplement the workforce in Takoradi are mostly recruited from the Western Region to appease the Chiefs and people in the region.



On his part, the GNPC CEO showed appreciation to the Regional Minister and the entire Coordinating Council for the support they have always offered the Corporation.



Mr. Joseph Dadzie particularly thanked Mr Kwabena Okyere Darko for the role he played in helping the Corporation secure the land on which its state-of-the-art Operational Headquarters is situated.



He said, in 2016, the President had promised the people we were going to put up the operational head office and through your valuable contribution and assistance and sometimes I dare say, bulldozing your way through, weve been able to complete the operational head office.



Joseph Dadzie among other things told the Western Regional Minister, he was there with his entourage to ascertain from him any inputs and counsel he has for them to help them do things better for the Corporation and Ghana in general.



We are also here to also listen to you because you are the political overlord of this region to also find out whether there are things that we can do better, Mr. Dadzie noted.



Responding to the Regional Ministers concerns on stalled GNPC developmental projects and employment for indigenes, Mr. Dadzie assured the minister the board of the Corporation has met over those projects and some actions are being initiated to ensure the continuation of the projects.Joe Dadzie meets Western RCC



Concerning employment opportunities for indigenes, Joseph Dadzie told the minister for starters, the low hanging fruits; security, cleaning, must be given to the people in the Western Region.



For actual employment, even though I am the managing director, I am not the final say on that, but I am sure the people who need to be employed at the operational head office, priority would be given to the people of the Western Region.



According to Mr. Dadzie, all other concerns tabled by the minister would be given the currency they deserve at the board level and promised to push for them to be considered.



Accompanying the CEO was Dr. Kwame Baah-Nuakoh, General Manager, Strategy and Investment, Prof. Kwesi Amponsah-Tawiah, General Manager, Human Resources, Dr. Dominic Eduah, Executive Director, GNPC Foundation, Kingsley Asare, Manager in-charge of Works and Senior Staff Association President, Eric Kwadwo Asare.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Zambia's former President Edgar Lungu has insisted that he is "virtually under house arrest" although police said the monitoring of his movements was "strictly for his own safety".



"I cannot move out of my house without being accosted and challenged by police, who drive me back home," Mr Lungu told the BBC's Newsday programme.



"I'm facing the consequences of returning to politics and I'm ready for it," he added.



Police have denied claims of planning to ambush the former leader at night.



Mr Lungu announced a comeback to politics last October, prompting the government to withdraw his retirement benefits.



He had retired from politics after losing the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021.



The former leader has been accusing the government of victimizing him and members of his Patriotic Front (PF) party to block his return to politics.



His wife, former First Lady Esther Lungu, has been accused of corruption involving cases of theft of motor vehicles and title deeds, which she denies.



On Friday, Mr Lungu told the BBC that he had been barred from going for medical check-ups and stopped his morning jogging after police told him he could not leave his house.



"Recently, they took me out of a plane where I was supposed to travel for a conference," he added.



Police chief Graphel Musamba on Thursday said it was standard procedure to monitor the movements of the former leader "strictly for his own safety".



"Should Mr Lungu fail to inform us of his movements, we will still ensure his protection by monitoring his activities, as it is our duty to do so," Mr Musamba added.



On Wednesday, Mr Lungu said he had been subject to numerous unconstitutional actions by the state since leaving office.



He said police were under instructions to "ambush me at night, abduct, embarrass, and forcefully detain me like a hardcore criminal".



"As far as I am aware, I have not committed any crime that would warrant the government, through the police, to start scheming against me in this manner," Mr Lungu added.



But State House spokesman Clayson Hamasaka later denied Mr Lungu's claim, saying the former leader was "freely traversing our towns and cities, exercising his rights to free speech and association - freedoms he once denied to others".



"Currently, Mr Edgar Lungu is an active opposition politician in Zambia. The laws of the country clearly define the expectations for an opposition leader," Mr Hamasaka said in a statement.



Attending a church service last Sunday, Mr Lungu warned of a regime change before the next election, saying "a baby can be born before nine months".



Police chief Musamba said Mr Lungu would be summoned to explain his statement, local media reported.



Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa said the government was "carefully studying" Mr Lungu's remarks, terming them hair-raising and startling.



It comes a few days after the police warned that Mr Lungu risked being arrested and prosecuted for "engaging in activities that disrupt public order and safety".



A crowd of people thronged around him as he walked around the streets of Lusaka two weeks ago, ostensibly to assess the reported high cost of doing business in the city.



In February, the former president asked citizens to call for an early election, accusing his successor of failing to manage the economy.



The former leader was last year warned against jogging in public, as police described his weekly workouts as "political activism".



Meanwhile, a human rights body has called on the Zambian government to quash the conviction of an opposition official two weeks ago for apparently defaming the president.



Raphael Nakacinda, a senior PF official, was sentenced on 17 May for his 2021 remarks, alleging that President Hichilema had coerced judges into passing judgments favourable to him.



Human Rights Watch (HRW) said Nakacinda's 18-month prison sentence would have "a broad chilling effect" on the right to freedom of expression in Zambia.



The Zambian government has yet to respond to the HRW statement.

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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The Executive Presbytery of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, is currently in Italy for an official visit.



They visited the Ghanaian Fellowship Assemblies of God churches in Italy and the Italian Assemblies of God.



The Executive Presbytery members from Ghana held a meeting with the national leadership of the Ghanaian Fellowship Assemblies of God, Italy to discuss very pertinent issues and renew the partnership that exists between both parties.



The Ghanaian delegation paid a courtesy call on the General Superintendent of Italy Assemblies of God, Rev Dr Motante and his leadership team.



They were accompanied by a cross-section of the Ghanaian Fellowship leadership team led by Rev Patrick Mumuni Boakye, National Field Director.



Discussions revolved around Mission collaborations, idea sharing, and the upcoming 2026 World Congress of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship, which is scheduled to be held in Accra, Ghana, among other topics.

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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Henry Kwabena Kokofu has issued a reply to critics who were compelling President Nana Akufo-Addo to release the KPMG audit report on the transaction between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).



It could be recalled that The Fourth Estate publication disclosed some irregularities in the contract and has been calling for the cancellation of the deal.



As a result, the President directed KPMG to audit the transaction and the firm, after their work, delivered their findings to the President who released some parts of it into the public.



But he (Nana Akufo-Addo) came under intense criticisms for keeping the full report.



On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the President finally made the full report accessible to the general public.



A statement signed by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Presidency, explained the reason for the President's decision stating he is in the interest of full transparency in governance, openness, and honesty with the public, has decided to waive the privilege under section 5 of the RTI Act and has directed the publication of the KPMG report in full.



Touching on the matter during a panel discussion on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", the former Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Henry Kokofu took a swipe at those who were pressuring the President to publicize the report.



He subtly queried them saying "those who were calling for the release of the full report, the President has released it. What are they going to use it for?"





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The third accused in the ambulance purchase trial, Richard Jakpa has accused the Attorney-General (A-G), Godfred Yeboah Dame of approaching him to help him implicate Minority Leader and former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.



The businessman who was under cross-examination by counsel for the Minority Leader, had earlier been warned by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe to be direct in his responses rather than going around it and wasting the Courts time.



Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame reacting to the judges caution accused Richard Jakpa of defending the Minority Leader.



This triggered the first accused who retorted that the Attorney-General appeared pained because he had engaged him to help the state make a case against Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.



The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 and I have evidence for that.. If he pushes me, I will open the Pandoras box. I dont understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 when Im here to defend myself,  Jakpa fumed in court.



If he pushes me, Ill open the Pandoras box. I have evidence to all this, a visibly angry Richard Jakpa indicated to the court.



The countenance of Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson changed as he looked shocked and angered by the development.



In a bid to douse the situation, Justice Asare-Botwe ordered Richard Jakpa to stop raising his voice and asked that water be brought to him.



But Richard Jakpa refused to drink after accepting the bottle, saying he was too upset.



The case was stood down for some time after the judge called the Attorney-General and lawyers of Ato Forson.





Source: 3news.com









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Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has said that court processes should not be used to intimidate political opponents.



His comments come on the back of a revelation at the court on Thursday where the third accused person in the ongoing ambulance trial, Richard Jakpa, revealed that the Attorney-General has engaged him severally to implicate the first accused, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.



Dr. Ato Forson, Sylvester Anemana and private businessman Richard Jakpa are standing trial for willfully causing a financial loss of 2.37 million to the state through a contract to purchase 200 ambulances for the Ministry of Health, among other charges.



The state has, however, discontinued the case against Sylvester Amemana.



During court proceedings on Thursday, May 23, 2024, Mr. Jakpa fumed at the Attorney-General for accusing him of defending the Minority Leader in his testimony.



The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 [Ato Forson] and I have evidence for that. If he pushes me, I will open the Pandoras box. I dont understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 [Ato Forson] when Im here to defend myself, Jakpa fumed.



However, the human rights lawyer described the alleged actions of the Attorney-General as suborning a witness to lie under oath in court, emphasising that such actions cannot be classified under the plea bargaining law.



Speaking to Alred Ocansey on 3FMs new analysis programme Hot Edition on Thursday, May 23, Mr Kpebu said, so asking a witness to come and lie, perjury, to come and lie under oath because he says the Attorney-General was teaching him how to implicate Ato Forson. Jakpa is a grown man, he knows the difference.



We should have an inquiry into that, he stated.



He indicated that the actions of the A-G in other jurisdictions could be grounds for the court to discontinue the case, citing abuse of trial, where a court finds that this trial is not for justice but its just to do in a political opponent.



As soon as the court finds that the tools of justice are being used for political vendetta, the judge can stop the trial. Yes, we dont encourage that at all, he stressed.



He added, The court is there to do justice, to serve the ends of justice, not to be used as a weapon against political opponents.



Meanwhile, the A-Gs office, in response, denied the allegations, asserting that the third accused rather engaged the state severally for plea bargaining, which has since not been accepted by the state.



The A-G further added that it has video evidence of the first accused and former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, meeting with the A-G to plead for the discontinuation of the prosecution.

Source: 3news.com









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Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), stipulates that the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice will be held responsible for what he describes as infringement of justice.



Sammy Gyamfi opined that, the testament of the third accused person, Richard Jakpa, is congruent to the NDC's assertion that the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice wants to use whims and caprices to convict the minority leader and the Member of Parliament for AjumakoEssiam-Enyan, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.



In a radio interview on Accra based Joy FM, Sammy Gyamfi said, "His day of accountability, his day of reckoning has come. His cup is full, God has exposed his evil works which he does under the cloak of his office as Attorney-General. And it is time for him to face the music. And we are telling him, he is not above the law."



Sammy Gyamfis comment is in sequel to the testimony given by the third accused who claimed, the Attorney-General called him at odd hours to work in his favour to implicate Dr. Ato Forson, who was a deputy Finance Minister in the erstwhile Mahama government.



The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 and I have evidence for that. If he pushes me, I will open the Pandoras Box. I dont understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 when Im here to defend myself. If he pushes me, Ill open the Pandoras Box. I have evidence to all this, he said on Thursday, May 23.



Sammy Gyamfi maintains that, the Attorney-General is using every means possible to find the leader of the minority caucus in parliament guilty to settle political scores considering how hard the leader has descended on the government.



Sammy Gyamfi said, "If your hands are clean, you have no ill-motive and you want to communicate with an accused person before the court, you know his lawyer so you go through his lawyer. You don't go calling the accused person, meeting him under the cover of darkness, planning all manner of things that I am restraining myself not to put them out ahead of next week's press conference."



In a press release by the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice, signed by the Deputy minister, Alfred Tuah Yeboah, the Ministry denied all allegations leveled against the A-G and the office, emphasisng that the ministry has worked based on the information they have received as a result of their investigations.



The Republic has throughout the trial, relied solely on the record of the impugned transaction, i.e. the purchase of ordinary vans purporting to be ambulances, to sustain its case against the accused persons. This record existed before January, 2022 (when the case was commenced) and was duly filed in Court by the prosecution before the commencement of the trial.



The Republic has never required or desired the cooperation of any of the accused persons in the matter, in which it has already succeeded in establishing a prima facie case against all the accused persons. Neither the Attorney-General nor any officer from the Office of the Attorney-General has approached any of the accused persons with the view to obtaining evidence from them.



The Attorney-General further stated that, the recent testimony given against the Attorney-General is a deliberate attempt by the NDC to digress due process of justice.



It is rather the third accused who, by various letters dated 27th April, 2023, 16th May, 2023, 30th May, 2023 and 12th June, 2023, has proposed to the Republic through the Attorney-General to engage in plea bargaining or plea negotiations. This plea bargaining proposal has, to date, not been accepted by the Attorney-General.



"Even though the law on plea bargaining passed by Parliament permits a prosecutor to negotiate with an accused person after a plea proposal has been made, the Attorney-General has not engaged the third accused person to give false testimony in the matter.



"The Attorney-General has also come under enormous pressure from all manner of persons for him to discontinue the prosecution of the 1st accused person, Cassiel Ato Forson, but has not yielded.



The Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice considers the latest allegation levelled against the Attorney-General as part of a grand scheme by the NDC to put more pressure on him to discontinue the prosecution or to divert attention from the real issues regarding the actions of the accused persons which have caused enormous financial loss to the State.













Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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

The 3D-MAT thermal protection material. Credit: NASA

The 3-Dimensional Multifunctional Ablative Thermal Protection System (3D-MAT) is a thermal protection material developed as a critical component of Orion, NASA's newest spacecraft built for human deep space missions. It is able to maintain a high level of strength while enduring extreme temperatures during re-entry into Earth's atmosphere at the end of Artemis missions to the moon.

3D-MAT has become an essential piece of technology for NASA's Artemis campaign that will establish the foundation for long-term scientific exploration on the moon and prepare for human expeditions to Mars, for the benefit of all.

The 3D-MAT project emerged from a technical problem in early designs of the Orion spacecraft. The compression padthe connective interface between the crew module, where astronauts reside, and the service module carrying power, propulsion, supplies, and morewas exhibiting issues during Orion's first test flight, Exploration Flight Test-1, in 2014.

NASA engineers realized they needed to find a new material for the compression pad that could hold these different components of Orion together while withstanding the extremely high temperatures of atmospheric re-entry. Using a 3D weave for NASA heat shield materials had been explored, but after the need for a new material for the compression pad was discovered, development quickly escalated.

This led to the evolution of 3D-MAT, a material woven with quartz yarn and cyanate ester resin in a unique three-dimensional design. The quartz yarn used is like a more advanced version of the fiberglass insulation you might have in your attic, and the resin is essentially a high-tech glue. These off-the-shelf aerospace materials were chosen for their ability to maintain their strength and keep heat out at extremely high temperatures.

3D-MAT is woven together with a specialized loom, which packs the yarns tightly together, and then injected with resin using a unique pressurized process. The result is a high-performance material that is extremely effective at maintaining strength when it's hot, while also insulating the heat from the spacecraft it is protecting.

On the 19th day of the Artemis I mission, the moon grows larger in frame as Orion prepares for the return powered flyby on Dec. 5, when it will pass approximately 79 miles above the lunar surface. This image includes both the Orion crew module and service module, connected by the compression pad that utilizes the 3D-MAT material. Credit: NASA

Within three years, 3D-MAT went from an early-stage concept to a well-developed material and has now been integrated onto NASA's flagship Artemis campaign. The use of 3D-MAT in the Orion spacecraft's compression pad during the successful Artemis I mission demonstrated the material's essential role for NASA's human spaceflight efforts.

This development was made possible within such a short span of time because of the team's collaboration with small businesses including Bally Ribbon Mills, which developed the weaving process, and San Diego Composites, which co-developed the resin infusion procedure with NASA.

The team behind its development won the NASA Invention of the Year Award, a prestigious honor recognizing how essential 3D-MAT was for the successful Artemis flight and how significant it is for NASA's future Artemis missions. The inventor team recognized includes Jay Feldman and Ethiraj Venkatapathy from NASA's Ames Research Center in California's Silicon Valley, Curt Wilkinson of Bally Ribbon Mills, and Ken Mercer of Dynovas.

3D-MAT has applications beyond NASA as well. Material processing capabilities enabled by 3D-MAT have led to other products such as structural parts for Formula One racecars and rocket motor casings. Several potential uses of 3D-MAT in commercial aerospace vehicles and defense are being evaluated based on its properties and performance.

Provided by NASA
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The star chart of NGC 1513. Credit: Oralhan et al., 2024.

Using the National Astronomical Observatory (OAN) in Mexico, astronomers have observed an open cluster known as NGC 1513. Results of the observations, presented in a paper published May 16 on the pre-print server arXiv, yield crucial information regarding the properties of this cluster.

Open clusters (OCs), formed from the same giant molecular cloud, are groups of stars loosely gravitationally bound to each other. So far, more than 1,000 of them have been discovered in the Milky Way, and scientists are still looking for more, hoping to find a variety of these stellar groupings. Studying OCs in detail could be crucial for improving our understanding of the formation and evolution of our galaxy.

Discovered in 1790, NGC 1513 is an OC in the constellation Perseus, located some 4,800 light years away from the Earth. The cluster, which is estimated to be 363 million years old, has a tidal radius of about 65 light years and its metallicity was found to be at a level of -0.1 dex.

A team of astronomers led by Inci Akkaya Oralhan of the Erciyes University in Kayseri, Turkey, decided to take a closer look at NGC 1513. They employed one of the optical telescopes at OAN to investigate the properties of this cluster.

"Observation of NGC 1513 cluster and some Landolt standard fields were carried out at the Sierra San Pedro Martir National Astronomical Observatory during the very photometric nights of December 35, 2023 UT using the 0.84-m (f/15) Ritchey-Chretien telescope equipped with the Mexman filter wheel and a detector," the researchers explained.

The observations found that NGC 1513 has a core radius of about 6.39 light years, while its half-light radius is approximately 7.63 light years. This means that the cluster has a relatively high core radius to half-light radius ratioat a level of 0.82. The astronomers assume that such a high ratio is probably related to cluster-formation effects due to its little dynamical evolution.

Based on the new results, it was found that NGC 1513 is dynamically relaxed as its relaxation age was calculated to be 22.3 million years, while its age was determined to be some 224 million years. The cluster's metallicity was measured to be -0.06 dex.

At least 457 members of NGC 1513 have been identified, with masses ranging from 1.12 to 3.98 solar masses. The total mass of the cluster was found to be 624.7 solar masses, which yields a mean mass for the member stars of approximately 1.37 solar masses. The authors of the paper noted that NGC 1513 presents a sign of small-scale mass segregation with little dynamical evolution.

According to the study, NGC 1513 is at a distance of 4,935 light years and must have migrated about 1,400 light years from its birth place. In general, the cluster follows a circular path around the Milky Way's center and has almost made one revolution around the center of the galaxy.

More information: Inci Akkaya Oralhan et al, CCD ????????????(????????) ???????? photometry and dynamics of the open cluster NGC 1513, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2405.09918 Journal information: arXiv

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ROTATEs partners are NIBIO, the Czech University of Life Sciences Praque, Biology Centre (CAS) and IBOT. Norwegian PI is Dr Fride Histad Schei at NIBIO, seen here with other project participants by a pollarded tree in Ulvik in Western Norway. Credit: Anna Birgitte Milford

In the lush landscapes of Western Norway, pollarded trees bridge the past with modern environmental concerns. In a recent study, researchers investigated what motivates farmers to continue this ancient tree pruning practice.

Pollarding, a traditional practice of pruning trees to encourage new growth, mainly for fodder, has found a new lease of life, particularly in Western Norway. This is among other things due to policy grants aimed at preserving cultural landscapes and enhancing biodiversity.

In the study, published in Agroforestry Systems, researchers delved into modern pollarding practices and their ecosystem services in Vestland county. The study combined in-depth interviews with quantitative surveys targeting pollarding farmers across the region.

"Traditionally, pollarding provided additional fodder from the tree layer and made it possible to utilize resources from areas unsuitable for grazing and grass harvesting. The leaves were used as fodder, and the branches were used for tools, poles, and firewood. Today, the economic returns of pollarding are too low to be worthwhile for farmers," says Anna Birgitte Milford, social economist and researcher at NIBIO.

The researchers have been interested in investigating exactly what it is that motivates the farmers to carry on. Do they pollard mainly due to the grants they receive in doing so, or are there other aspects of pollarding they highlight as most important?

In the study modern pollarding practices were explored, including procedures and the ecosystem services pollarded trees offer in terms of bioresources, cultural benefits, and biodiversity conservation. Challenges with pollarding were also addressed.

Part of our cultural heritage

Through the interviews and survey, the researchers discovered that some farmers are motivated to pollard because of the erosion control and sheltering functions it provides to animals. For most of the farmers, however, the ecosystem services obtained from pollarding are first and foremost related to cultural and aesthetic values.

"Many of the farmers we interviewed described how they appreciate a landscape with pollarded trees because of the cultural heritage it represents, and highlighted this as their main motivation to continue the practice," says NIBIO-researcher Jrund Johansen who conducted most of the interviews.

As far as policies regarding pollarding is concerned, the researchers found that the farmers' motivation for pollarding extended beyond mere economic incentives.

"The farmers who took part in the study see few disadvantages with pollarding. While the public grant serves as a welcome incentive, most of the farmers expressed a genuine commitment to continue pollarding irrespective of financial support," Johansen says.

Pollarding enhances biodiversity

Old trees are extremely important for biodiversity. A pollarded tree has an increased likelihood of becoming old due to its aesthetic value and the tree's physiology.

"Pollarded trees have a relatively small crown on a low and thick trunk, which makes the tree more robust against weather and wind. Additionally, pollarded trees often become hollow in the middle at a younger age than trees that are not managed. Hollow deciduous trees are a particularly valuable habitat for a variety of species," says NIBIO researcher and ecologist Fride Histad Schei.

"Solitary trees dotting agricultural landscapes serve as havens for lichens, mosses, fungi, and insects, fostering a rich tapestry of biodiversity. This was highlighted by several pollarding farmers as a significant motivating factor."

The study also revealed that several farmers who practice pollarding let the branches and twigs from the trees decay in heaps outside in the field. This increases the structural complexity of the landscape and provides nesting opportunities for animals.

"It is interesting to note that farmers do this against the advice of the County Governor who provides the pollarding grant, who rather recommends the pollarded area to be kept "nice and tidy,"" says Schei.

"This shows that in the formation of the pollarding policy the aims of achieving both ecological and aesthetic values are up against each other, something which is typical in the management of cultural landscapes."

She adds that this is one of the topics the researchers brought forth in discussions with representatives from the County Governor of Vestland, with a recommendation that changes be made to future guidelines.

Grant scheme should continue

Anna Birgitte Milford says that gaining insight into the aspects of modern pollarding practices can be useful when anticipating the future of pollarding, and to identify opportunities for enhancing the outcomes.

"Our results indicate that sharing information about the cultural heritage of pollarding and the benefits it may have on biodiversity, to farmers as well as to the general public, can be an important part of a strategy to uphold pollarding. Furthermore, it seems likely that without the economic incentives from the public grant, pollarding would to some extent continue, but perhaps more sporadically, and with less establishment of new pollarded trees," she says.

The researchers believe that pollarding among farmers in Western Norway most likely requires the continuation of a grant scheme.

"To provide additional benefits to biodiversity, it could also be considered to revise the advice against piling branches in heaps instead of burning," Schei concludes.

More information: Anna Birgitte Milford et al, "Historical signs in the landscape": Ecosystem services, motivation and challenges of pollarding in Western Norway, Agroforestry Systems (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s10457-024-00994-9

Provided by NIBIO  Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research
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Mother Tam Tam and baby Tim Tam - safe at the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital. Credit: QUT

Clinging to a teddy bear that dwarfs her, Tim Tam takes in her surrounds with shiny-eyed wonder and awe from the safety of her crib.

The five-month-old joey, along with mum Tam Tam, will soon check out from Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, returning home to the idyllic eucalypts of Elanora on the southern Gold Coast.

Hers is a genuine feel-good story. Weighing just under a kilogram, Tim Tam is among the 34 healthy joeys born through a QUT-led vaccine project.

She represents another small step towards ensuring the long-term survival of koalas in south-east Queensland and along the eastern seaboard.

And she embodies the 'why' for Professor Ken Beagley and his passionate colleagues.

The jab that could save a species

Growing up in New Zealand, Ken Beagley did not see a koala, let alone hold one, until he was in his teens.

Fast forward, and koalas would consume his research for the best part of two decadescrucial work which may help save one of our nation's most beloved species.

Warmly regarded worldwide as cute, fluffy, content creatures, koalas are an iconic attraction for tourists and locals alike. Yet they are under serious threat, both short and long-term.

Chlamydial disease is ravaging a species already fighting survival battles on fronts such as bushfires, habitat loss through land clearing and food nutrient loss caused by climate change.

There has been a 70-80 percent decline in many populations across Queenslandand localized extinction is a real threat without a chlamydia vaccination. An often-fatal, sexually transmitted bacterial condition, chlamydia also causes infertility, blindness and urinary tract disease. It spreads with devastating effect and antibiotics are not only costly but of limited effectiveness.

Enter Professor Beagley and his QUT-led research team. Working in close collaboration with senior vet Dr. Michael Pyne OAM at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, Ken's team has developedand after 10 years in the lab, is now successfully trialinga vaccine in a localized population on the Gold Coast.

When Professor Beagley and team started treating the small Elanora koala population, rates of chlamydia were around 70%.

Three years into a five-year study, about 40 koalas from the population have been vaccinated, collared and monitored. In a separate study, about 300 animals treated at Currumbin for a variety of conditions have also been vaccinated. While both studies continue, there are promising outcomes with the majority of those koalas that were chlamydia-free at time of vaccination, remaining disease-free at return.

Joey koala Tim Tam and her teddy bear. Credit: QUT

The first QUT-vaccinated koala (named Anne Chovee) has also been released back into the wild, chlamydia-free and having produced a healthy joey.

Professor Beagley says such encouraging results keep him energized towards the long-term goal of a chlamydia-free koala status across Queensland and NSW.

His team's work continues to win recognition and financial support, with substantial contributions from Brisbane City Council and a QUT fundraising appeal moving the next key milestoneregistration of the vaccinea step closer.

Registration will enable use by vet clinics and wildlife hospitals throughout the country, without needing the university ethics approval it currently requires as an experimental product.

"We need to do everything we can to help save these iconic marsupialswe want to see healthy koala populations across Australia," says Professor Beagley, adding that initial data (testing continues) suggests the vaccine is largely safe, effective and ready to be more widely available.

It all started at Currumbin

A high school tripironically to Currumbin in 1973introduced Professor Beagley to koalas, before a shift in academic institutions years later solidified a burning passion to help.

"They have always been fascinating animals for me," he said. "But I had never seen a koala with chlamydia until I came up here (to Queensland)."

Professor Beagley had conducted early vaccine development at University of Newcastle from 200507 but it was only after moving north to Brisbane, and the QUT School of Biomedical Sciences, that the life-saving koala research gathered momentum.

"I had been interested in (developing treatments) for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases for a long time," he said. The work mainly involved mouse models, with the ultimate objective of developing a human Chlamydia vaccine.

"By chance, I met the head veterinarian at Lone Pine (koala sanctuary), who was keen on developing a chlamydia vaccine for koalas.

"I soon saw that from Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast all the way to Currumbin, chlamydia was a real problem for koalas.

"I had background experience in what was needed for a chlamydia vaccine so at the end of 2007, started the slow process of developing a vaccine for koalas."

Each koala brought into Currumbin Wildlife Hospital with chlamydia costs about $7,000 to treat, with many staying up to ten weeks due to complications from antibiotics.

QUT Professor Ken Beagley. Credit: QUT

It costs Gold Coast City Council about $500,000 per year for the capture-treat-collar-track process, with the QUT and Currumbin Wildlife collaboration also supported by World Wildlife Fund Australia, WildArk, Rotary Currumbin Coolangatta-Tweed and the Neumann Family.

The QUT team's aim is to capture and immunize 10% of young adult koalas per year from the wild Elanora population, to establish the level of vaccination needed in an infected population to reduce the incidence of chlamydia and improve fertility rates.

Ideally, the real-world impact will convince Gold Coast City Council and the Department of Environment to continue their support after the five-year study ends.

"We hope a repeat survey after five years will show that the majority of vaccinated koalas are disease-free and breeding successfully, with indications the population is starting to recoverand we no longer then need to collar and track the animals," Professor Beagley says.

"The vaccine is showing signs of success at Elanora. I want to take it to a stage where it can be widely accessed through CurrumbinI want any vet to be able to get it, with the only cost being for a courier and maintaining the ordering website."

An extra boost to 'let koalas be koalas'

Professor Beagley's team has also received federal funding to develop booster implant technology, which would alleviate the need to hold or recapture koalas. Slightly bigger than a pet microchip, it would release a second shot after 30 days and allow in-field vaccination.

"Not having to recapture or hold animals in captivity for a second shot after 30 days is kinder, with less interference  it will let koalas be koalas."

Key members of Professor Beagley's QUT team include polymer chemists Professor Tim Dargaville and Dr. Kerr Samson, plus Freya Russell (whose Ph.D. project investigated and designed a biodegradable, delayed vaccine delivery device in animals).

With expertise in degradable polymers, Professor Dargaville has developed the flexible implant to deliver the booster dose while Dr. Samson is fabricating and testing the implants.

Collaborations extend far beyond the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and QUT researchers. Professor Beagley is also working closely with:

John Hanger and Deidre de Villiers, from Endeavour Veterinary Ecology, and Department of Transport and Main Roads, vaccinating koalas relocated for the Coomera connector;

Universities including UQ (through a close alliance with Associate Professor Steven Johnston) and, internationally, the University of North Carolinawhere a National Institutes of Health grant is driving research for a human chlamydia vaccine which has enormous potential to be developed and enhanced in parallel to the QUT koala research.

Professor Beagley hints that he may be counting down to retirement, aligning around the timeframe of the Federal booster funding, which runs for 32 months from July 2023. He is looking to mentor the next wave of koala saviors.

"A researcher can't put their ideas into a 95 job bracket. You never stop thinking about it, there is always that next step to consider," he said.

"I want to retire knowing I've given my best shot to developing a koala vaccine that has shown it works, has been registered, is widely available and is protecting wild koalas."
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Desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) laying eggs during the 1994 locust outbreak in Mauritania . Credit: Christiaan Kooyman, Wikimedia Commons, CC0

Sharks lose teeth all their lives, replacing them in a kind of endless rotating Rolodex, while humans, of course, get only our two sets. Beavers' teeth, notoriously, grow all their lives and have to be worn down to prevent injury.

New research appearing in Interface Focus has now placed another animal into the self-sharpening set, Schistocerca gregaria, the desert locust. Ulrike G. K. Wegst, research associate professor of physics at Northeastern University, has discovered that locust exoskeletons build up concentrations of zinc in their mandibles, which hardens their "shovel-shaped mouthparts"according to the researchin relation to the surrounding cuticle. A locust's exoskeleton is composed of chitin, a fibrous material not unlike the cellulose found in plants and common to both insects and marine life like crustaceans. An animal's chitin varies depending on use. In some parts of the body it needs flexibilitye.g., around jaws that need to open and closeand in others it needs significant hardness. Conducted in collaboration with biologist Oliver Betz, of the University of Tubingen, and Peter Cloetens, from the European Synchrotron, the research examined how zinc-hardened parts of the locusts' mandibles sharpen themselves as they're used. The jaws of locusts aren't unlike human jaws, in that one set slightly overlaps the other set, although locusts' open and close horizontally. As the two halves sheer past one another, the hardened edges sharpen each other. Video S1 from Desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria) feed with self-sharpening, scissor-like mandibles. Credit: Interface Focus (2024). DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2023.0069 Wegst, who specializes in materials science, identified a pronounced "zinc edge" lining along the mandibles through the use of a synchrotrona kind of particle acceleratorthat employed "monochromatic energy X-rays."

The benefit of synchrotron light resides in its intensity: "We can reduce the spectrum to a very narrow energy. In fact, we can make it monochromatic," Wegst says, "so I can still have enough energy to image, but I can also exactly position this energy."

Materials absorb X-rays differentially, and thanks to the narrowness of the synchrotron's beam the researchers could employ a process of subtractive imaging to "measure the amount of zinc on the one hand," Wegs says, and "more easily see how it is distributed in three dimensions."

In building a three-dimensional model of the locusts' jaws, Wegst could then identify how the harder leading edges of the locusts' mandibles cut away the softer chitin around them when used, thus maintaining a sharper edge.

"What I'm trying to obtain here in my cutting edge is a high hardness" that can stand up to highly abrasive, woody material, Wegst says. To "make sure that the cutting edges remain sharp as long as possible," she continues, can be "achieved by having one of these edges rubbing against the other. So every time it's cutting something, it's also sharpening itself."

But wear and tear is inevitable, despite this "very clever mechanism," as Wegst calls it. Eventually the edge will wear downbut, Wegst notes, the locust regularly sheds its exoskeleton, regrowing its chitinous outer shell and the hard, zinc-enriched mouthparts.

Imagine using a blunt knife instead of a sharp one, Wegst posits. "It costs more energy to cut, so for an animal that needs to eat and preserve energy, an efficient cutting mechanism is actually a strategy to survive. If I have blunt cutting toolsand I'm getting my new knife in six weeksI may be starving in between."

"The animal that has the self-sharpening mechanism is at an advantage," she continues, "but it's also costly" for the locust to consume as much zinc as it needs and distribute it through the proper regions of the exoskeleton. "It's a balance that the organism seems to be striking," maintaining an efficient distribution "only in the areas where [the zinc] is most needed."

How the zinc reaches the mandibles, and how the locusts consume enough of it, remain open questions for further research.

While they may be out there, Wegst says that "we have not seen another species yet  where we have a similar arrangement of cutting edges with respect to one another."

But Wegst also foresees biomimetic design ideas rising out of this research. But that doesn't mean designing one-to-one copies. Rather, "biomimetics," she says, implies "understanding the principles of function."

The simple principle of placing "resources in specific areas to make something damage tolerant, resilient, and just long lived," Wegst says, "as long as my structure needs to survive," provides a lot to learn from.

More information: Ulrike G. K. Wegst et al, Desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria ) feed with self-sharpening, scissor-like mandibles, Interface Focus (2024). DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2023.0069

This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu.
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Wenge Huang inspects material samples in the lab of Jiangtao Cheng. Credit: Alex Parrish for Virginia Tech.

Splash a few drops of water on a hot pan and if the pan is hot enough, the water will sizzle and the droplets of water seem to roll and float, hovering above the surface.

The temperature at which this phenomenon, called the Leidenfrost effect, occurs is predictable, usually happening above 230 degrees Celsius. The team of Jiangtao Cheng, associate professor in the Virginia Tech Department of Mechanical Engineering, has discovered a method to create the aquatic levitation at a much lower temperature, and the results have been published in Nature Physics.

Alongside first author and Ph.D. student Wenge Huang, Cheng's team collaborated with Oak Ridge National Lab and Dalian University of Technology for sections of the research.

The discovery has great potential in heat transfer applications such as the cooling of industrial machines and surface fouling cleaning for heat exchangers. It also could help prevent damage and even disaster to nuclear machinery.

Currently, there are more than 90 licensed operable nuclear reactors in the U.S. that power tens of millions of homes, anchor local communities, and actually account for half of the country's clean energy electricity production. It requires resources to stabilize and cool those reactors, and heat transfer is crucial for normal operations.

The physics of hovering water

For three centuries, the Leidenfrost effect has been a well-known phenomenon among physicists that establishes the temperature at which water droplets hover on a bed of their own vapor. While it has been widely documented to start at 230 degrees Celsius, Cheng and his team have pushed that limit much lower.

The effect occurs because there are two different states of water living together. If we could see the water at the droplet level, we would observe that not all of a droplet boils at the surface, only part of it. The heat vaporizes the bottom, but the energy doesn't travel through the entire droplet. The liquid portion above the vapor is receiving less energy because much of it is used to boil the bottom. That liquid portion remains intact, and this is what we see floating on its own layer of vapor. This has been referred to since its discovery in the 18th century as the Leidenfrost effect, named for German physician Johann Gottlob Leidenfrost.

That hot temperature is well above the 100 degree Celsius boiling point of water because the heat must be high enough to instantly form a vapor layer. Too low, and the droplets don't hover. Too high, and the heat will vaporize the entire droplet.

New work at the surface

The traditional measurement of the Leidenfrost effect assumes that the heated surface is flat, which causes the heat to hit the water droplets uniformly. Working in the Virginia Tech Fluid Physics Lab, Cheng's team has found a way to lower the starting point of the effect by producing a surface covered with micropillars.

"Like the papillae on a lotus leaf, micropillars do more than decorate the surface," said Cheng. "They give the surface new properties."

The micropillars designed by Cheng's team are 0.08 millimeters tall, roughly the same as the width of a human hair. They are arranged in a regular pattern of 0.12 millimeters apart. A droplet of water encompasses 100 or more of them. These tiny pillars press into a water droplet, releasing heat into the interior of the droplet and making it boil more quickly.

Compared to the traditional view that the Leidenfrost effect triggers at 230 degrees Celsius, the fin-array-like micropillars press more heat into the water than a flat surface. This causes microdroplets to levitate and jump off the surface within milliseconds at lower temperatures because the speed of boiling can be controlled by changing the height of the pillars.

Lowering the limits of Leidenfrost

When the textured surface was heated, the team discovered that the temperature at which the floating effect was achieved was significantly lower than that of a flat surface, starting at 130 degrees Celsius.

Not only is this a novel discovery for the understanding of the Leidenfrost effect, it is a twist on the limits previously imagined. A 2021 study from Emory University found that the properties of water actually caused the Leidenfrost effect to fail when the temperature of the heated surface lowers to 140 degrees. Using the micropillars created by Cheng's team, the effect is sustainable even 10 degrees below that.

"We thought the micropillars would change the behaviors of this well-known phenomenon, but our results defied even our own imaginations," said Cheng. "The observed bubble-droplet interactions are a big discovery for boiling heat transfer."

The Leidenfrost effect is more than an intriguing phenomenon to watch, it is also a critical point in heat transfer. When water boils, it is most efficiently removing heat from a surface. In applications such as machine cooling, this means that adapting a hot surface to the textured approach presented by Cheng's team gets heat out more quickly, lowering the possibility of damage caused when a machine gets too hot.

"Our research can prevent disasters such as vapor explosions, which pose significant threats to industrial heat transfer equipment," said Huang. "Vapor explosions occur when vapor bubbles within a liquid rapidly expand due to the present of intense heat source nearby. One example of where this risk is particularly pertinent is in nuclear plants, where the surface structure of heat exchangers can influence vapor bubble growth and potentially trigger such explosions. Through our theoretical exploration in the paper, we investigate how surface structure affects the growth mode of vapor bubbles, providing valuable insights into controlling and mitigating the risk of vapor explosions."

Another challenge addressed by the team is the impurities fluids leave behind in the textures of rough surfaces, posing challenges for self-cleaning. Under spray cleaning or rinsing conditions, neither conventional Leidenfrost nor cold droplets at room temperature can fully eliminate deposited particulates from surface roughness.

Using Cheng's strategy, the generation of vapor bubbles is able to dislodge those particles from surface roughness and suspend them in the droplet. This means that the boiling bubbles can both move heat and impurities away from the surface.

More information: Wenge Huang et al, Low-temperature Leidenfrost-like jumping of sessile droplets on microstructured surfaces, Nature Physics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-024-02522-z , dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41567-024-02522-z Journal information: Nature Physics
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Sweat Sensor Wristwatch Offers Real Time Monitoring of Body Chemistry. Credit: Cai Xin

Researchers have created a unique wristwatch that contains multiple modules, including a sensor array, a microfluidic chip, signal processing, and a data display system to monitor chemicals in human sweat. Their study is published in the journal ACS Nano.

"It can continuously and accurately monitor the levels of potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), and calcium (Ca2+) ions, offering both real-time and long-term tracking capabilities," said senior researcher Prof. Huang Xingjiu from the Institute of Solid State Physics at the Hefei Institutes of Physical Sciences of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Tremendous progress has been made in sweat sensors based on electrochemical methods, making it easier to track body changes. The stability of the sensor chip is crucial for its application effect and service life, which is the key to ensuring the long-term reliable operation of the sensor.

Therefore, researchers focused on designing a stable SC interface as core components, while fully integrating multiple modules of the sweat sensor to enable simultaneous and dependable monitoring of multiple target ions.

In this study, researchers developed mass-manufactured sensor arrays based on hierarchical multilayer-pore cross-linked N-doped porous carbon coated by reduced graphene oxide (NPCs@rGO-950) microspheres with high hydrophobicity as core SC. This enabled highly selective monitoring of K+, Na+, and Ca2+ ions in human sweat.

Dr. Cai is showing the wristwatch, which can monitor levels of several chemicals in sweat. Credit: Cai Xin

Using computed tomography and solid-solid interface potential diffusion simulation, they found that the diffusion of substances between solid interfaces is very low, and the ability to store electrical charge at these interfaces is high. This ensures the excellent potential stability, reversibility, repeatability, and selectivity of sensor arrays.

This watch's long-term reliability is promising. It can consistently monitor the three ions in human sweat for over 6 months, surpassing the stability of many other sensors that have been reported.

This study represents a comprehensive approach to material design, interface mechanism research, mass production of sensor chips, and modular full integration, providing more possibilities for wearable electrochemical sweat sensors, according to the team.

More information: Xin Cai et al, Fully Integrated Multiplexed Wristwatch for Real-Time Monitoring of Electrolyte Ions in Sweat, ACS Nano (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c13035 Journal information: ACS Nano

Provided by Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences
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Sample layout for 14 MeV fusion neutron irradiation. Credit: FU Xuewei

A research group led by Prof. Wang Haixia from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has revealed the tritium release behavior of lithium titanate (Li 2 TiO 3 ) breeder irradiated with fusion neutrons, which contributes to the optimization of the the solid blanket design in fusion reactors.

The results were published in Nuclear Materials and Energy and International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.

The tritium breeding and release behavior of solid breeders is critical to the design of solid blankets in fusion reactors. However, most breeder irradiation studies use fission neutrons, ion sources, or gamma sources, leaving a gap in the knowledge of 14 MeV fusion neutron irradiation. Therefore, experiments were performed on Li 2 TiO 3 using a fusion neutron source to investigate the influence of high energy neutrons on tritium production and release performance in solid breeders.

In this study, a specialized tritium release system was developed to measure and collect tritium after fusion neutron irradiation. This system, with near 100% collection efficiency, incorporates tritium collection bubblers, automatic replacement technology, and catalytic oxidation. By minimizing tritium loss and monitoring the release of tritiated water (HTO) and tritium gas, the system allows investigation of tritium release behavior under various conditions like temperature, humidity, and heating rates.

Tritium release curve of Li 2 TiO 3 in various temperature. Credit: FU Xuewei

Experimental results showed that at room temperature, a limited but visible amount of tritium was released from Li 2 TiO 3 samples irradiated with fusion neutrons, indicating a self-healing behavior of defects. As the temperature of the samples increased, Li 2 TiO 3 showed a tritium release peak, predominantly releasing HTO.

In addition, factors such as humidity in the sweep gas, different tritium measurement methods, and heating rates significantly affected the tritium release behavior.

"Our results provide new insights for understanding the influence of fusion neutron irradiation on the tritium release mechanism," said Prof. Wang Haixia.

More information: Haixia Wang et al, Development of a tritium release system for ceramic tritium breeder pebbles irradiated by high intensity DT fusion neutron Generator at INEST, Nuclear Materials and Energy (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.nme.2024.101653 Wenhao Wu et al, Experiment study on tritium release behavior of Li2TiO3 ceramic breeder irradiated by 14 MeV fusion neutron, International Journal of Hydrogen Energy (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2024.04.256 Journal information: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
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:

Framework of the urban water system 5.0 model. Credit: Science China Press

The urban water system theory is the application and extension of watershed hydrological science to an urban scale. In a paper published in Science China Earth Sciences, a research group led by Chinese academician Xia Jun introduced the urban water system 5.0 theory and associated model. This study aims to advance interdisciplinary study in urban water sciences and offer a systematic solution to complex urban water issues.

Previous research on urban water systems primarily focused on individual processes within the water cycle, such as those related to water supply and sewage treatment plants, which has significantly advanced our understanding of urban water system theory.

With the advent of sponge city construction in China, however, the focus of the urban water system studies has shifted from traditional considerations of rainfall-runoff yield, water supply, and drainage processes to a more comprehensive examination of multiple water system processes. Nevertheless, further exploration is needed to understand the interplay between the water cycle, material transport, water ecology, and human activities.

Professor Xia extended the concept of the urban water systems by transitioning from the natural water cycle to an urban scale, and thus established the urban water system 5.0 theory. This theory emphasizes mechanisms, system theories, and technological integrations of urban water cycles tailored to different climatic zones and geographical subdivisions in China.

The primary focus of research is using the hydrological cycle as a link to comprehensively explore the built-up areas and its associated rivers and lakes with multiple processes. These processes encompass the natural water cycle of rainfall, evapotranspiration, storage, and runoff, the artificial water cycle of supply, use, consumption, and discharge, the interaction between rivers and cities, the biogeochemical cycle, the pollutant migration and transformation, and socioeconomic development.

The urban water system 5.0 model integrates a Time-Variant Gain Rainfall-Runoff Model with urban water systems tailored to various underlying surface conditions. The Time-Variant Gain Rainfall-Runoff Model serves as the core, and extends its simulation capabilities to nonpoint source pollution, water and pollutant transport within drainage networks, waterlogging, socioeconomic water cycles, wastewater treatment, and water regulation and purification.

This integration facilitates the seamless interaction between natural and social water cycles, incorporating multi-scale sponge measures, and addressing water quantity, quality and ecological processes. The model comprises five primary simulation functions: rainfall-runoff and nonpoint source pollutant load, water and pollutant transportations of the drainage networks, terminal regulation and purification, socioeconomic water cycles, and water system assessment and regulation.

The successful application of the urban water system 5.0 model in Wuhan, a core city in the urban agglomeration of the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, demonstrates the feasibility of the model in simulating key processes of the urban water cycle. The model performed well for the simulation of urban rainfall-runoff processes, total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations in water bodies, and the critical socioeconomic development indicators.

Some control measures were proposed for waterlogging points, the black and odorous level of water bodies, lake eutrophication levels, and green development, respectively. These measures reduced the maximum inundated area in a once-in-a-decade rainfall by 32.6%, black and odorous water bodies by 65%, comprehensive trophic state index of the water bodies by 37%. They also contributed to an increase of 21% in the green development.

The theory of urban water system 5.0 and its associated model represents a significant advancement in modeling the water systems of contemporary cities. This approach facilitates the integration of diverse disciplines pertaining to urban environments and water management.

Moving forward, it is imperative to enhance the conceptual and theoretical-technical system of urban water systems. This involves refining the model structure, expanding its functionalities, and bolstering the observation and data collection related to water system processes. These efforts are essential for validating the performance of model simulations and ensuring their accuracy.

More information: Jun Xia et al, Urban water system theory and its model development and application, Science China Earth Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s11430-023-1226-9 Journal information: Science China Earth Sciences
Margates Ellie Taube has been able to overcome every challenge she has faced whenever her bass playing skills have been put to the test.

Taube, 19, was asked to join Cherry Hills School of Rock house band. She was good enough to form and be a member for the past three years of the alternative-metal band Wring Me Out with three of her fellow School of Rock attendees and was proficient enough to be accepted into the competitive Berklee College of Music in Boston.

Taube took piano lessons at age 4 and hated it. She was really good at playing the saxophone in fifth grade and applied the music theory of the saxophone to learning how to play electric guitar, she said.

I found myself gravitating to the lower end, said Taube about switching from lead guitar to bass. I have really big hands, which made playing guitar difficult.

While Taube was attending Atlantic City High School, her parents drove her twice a week to the School of Rock until she could take over driving with her own license at 17.

Taube formed Wring Me Out in 2021 with her fellow School of Rock attendees guitarist Aidan Kehoe, 18, of Medford, Burlington County; drummer Derek Mosetter, 16, of Gloucester Township, Camden County; and Cole Clark, 18, of Audubon, Camden County. They started as a cover band playing songs from bands like Tool and Rage Against The Machine, but by the end of 2022, the ensemble was playing a full set of original songs, Taube said.

With Taube being the only Atlantic County member and South Jersey being more hospitable to cover bands than original music, Wring Me Out has only played in Atlantic City three times. The bands first appearance in Americas Favorite Playground was in October at the Elephant Talk Indie Music Festival, held outdoors at the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall.

The festival was looking for bands, said Taube, who added she sent the bands material to the organizer. We had a really good response.

A diverse line-up planned at Atlantic City indie music festival The fifth annual Elephant Talk Indie Music Festival returns for the first of three consecuti

Jerry Ryan, organizer of the Elephant Talk festival, said he had heard about Wring Me Out about a year ago, watched YouTube footage of the band, but didnt really listen to them until booking them for the festival.

They are one of the best young bands I ever booked, said Ryan, who has been doing the festival for 15 years. I saw them live for the first time (in October). I watched their whole set, which is very rare for me.

Ryan booked Wring Me Out two more times, in December for the Elephant Talk Indie Music Awards at Anchor Rock Club on New York Avenue and last month for this years edition of the Elephant Talk festival at the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall.

Most teen rock groups that play original music either do pop-punk or hardcore punk, Ryan said, as opposed to Wring Me Outs progressive metal.

They are super talented. There are no weak links in the band, Ryan said. They are the real deal.

At the same time Wring Me Out played Atlantic City for the first time, the band released its first six-song album, Playing Possum. They released a new single, Work Boots and High Heels, in March. They expect to release another new song this summer.

Each member of the band handles different responsibilities. Taube does the booking and promotes the group on social media, she said.

Aidan does (most of the music) writing. Derek has the studio connection. Cole supplies the lyrics, Taube said.

More than 100 bands assemble to help autistic children Friday through Sunday There is a special connection between music and autism  and Jerry Ryan has seen first-hand 

During the past academic year, Taube has been away at school at the Berklee College of Music while her bandmates were finishing high school.

Berklee is a competitive school in which a student has to pass an audition to be accepted. Patrick Crowling, who has taught guitar and bass at the School of Rock since 2011, was Taubes bass teacher.

Taube played The Trooper by British heavy metal band Iron Maiden for her audition to Berklee, Crowling said.

It has a very complicated right-hand triplicate pattern. We did that song in the (School of Rock) house band. We discussed her audition. The Trooper played to her strengths, said Crowling, who added he had no doubt Taube would be accepted into Berklee.

Besides Atlantic City, Wring Me Out has played the Stone Pony in Asbury Park; the Bitter End in New York City; The Fire and Sweeneys in Philadelphia; and Dingbatz in Clifton, Passaic County, Taube said.

With Taube done with college for the academic year, Wring Me Out has a greater opportunity to do more shows this summer. She traveled from Massachusetts to play bass for concerts during her school year, she said.

Wring Me Out has been able to stay together with its original members even though they are a teen band, they are a group with males and a female, Mosetter is a little bit younger, and Taube is a little bit older and out of state for most of the year.

We grew up with each other during the last five or six years, Taube said. The main reason we have stayed together so long is that we are all friends first. We will hang out together outside of practices.

PHOTOS: Wring Me Out play Elephant Talk Indie Music Festival in Atlantic City
Residents of an Absecon retirement community have filed a lawsuit against the Atlantic County Utilities Authority alleging they have been exposed to a dangerous air pollutant from the Egg Harbor Township landfill.

The suit, filed on behalf of the Gathering at Bel Aire Lakes by Philadelphia-based law firm Cozen OConnor, seeks the closure of the landfill, air monitoring for the community, and damages for personal injury and property.

The ACUAs landfill is a massive emitter of hydrogen sulfide, a hazardous air pollutant posing a serious threat to the residents of BAL and the surrounding communities in Absecon, Pleasantville, Galloway, and Egg Harbor Township. As the public authority primarily responsible for safeguarding public health and welfare in Atlantic County from the dangers of solid waste disposal, the ACUAs behavior is unacceptable, Peter J. Fontaine, the lead attorney for the plaintiffs, said in a statement. It is finally time to hold the ACUA accountable for the hazardous situation it created over many years of neglect and mismanagement of the landfill.

The authority has denied any wrongdoing as it claims the landfill is regulated and inspected by the state regularly.

The ACUA has operated a comprehensive, effective, and responsible solid waste management system in service of the Atlantic County community for more than 30 years, spokesperson Sara Verillo said Friday in a statement. This includes the landfill in Egg Harbor Township, which is highly regulated by the federal Environmental Protection Agency, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, and the Atlantic County Department of Health. Consistent with this extensive regulatory framework, the landfill is routinely inspected by the NJDEP.

Local residents have voiced their complaints about the issue several times over for about a year, including at an Absecon City Council meeting in January where authority President Matt DeNafo was questioned by about a dozen people.

Hydrogen sulfide has an odor similar to rotten eggs and feces, and residents have reported breathing difficulties, a persistent cough, nausea and vomiting, migraine headaches and sleep disruption as a result of breathing it in, the suit alleges.

State law prohibits hydrogen sulfide admissions exceeding 30 parts per billion over a 30-minute period.

Smell the difference: ACUA says it's making improvements to odor collection system The Atlantic County Utilities Authority says it will be upgrading its landfill gas collection system Tuesday and Wednesday.

Weston Solutions, a landfill expert retained by the retirement community, alleges the agency had 283 violations of the 30 ppb period from November of last year through Jan. 23.

Weston claims hydrogen sulfide levels exceeded 100 ppb on 14 separate nights, a 340 ppb level was recorded over a four-hour period Jan. 23 and a peak hydrogen sulfide level measured 1,766 ppb, more than 58 times the legal standard, according to the complaint.

Data revealed by the ACUA from a network of automated hydrogen sulfide monitors, which were installed by Envirosuite in December, confirms the landfill regularly emits hydrogen sulfide at levels of over 2,000 ppb, the complaint states.

The suit alleges the ACUA manually collected its own data for seven years and has never recorded a single violation of the 30 ppb standard, inconsistent with the data gathered by Weston and Envirosuite.

The ACUA also allegedly did not disclose the results of its Envirosuite monitoring system when asked by the state Department of Environmental Protection, and agency officials presented false data to Absecon City Council in January, and to Atlantic County commissioners a month later, the complaint states.

However, Verrillo said the agency provided Cozen OConnor with data and information last year after multiple Open Public Records Act requests.

Additionally, the case claims the ACUAs nighttime operations violate a state law that prohibits such operations from taking place within 1,000 feet of residential communities.

Verrillo said the agency is committed to fighting the allegations.

The ACUA and its counsel intend to vigorously defend against these accusations in court by using facts and evidence, not false and sensationalist allegations. Verrillo said. The ACUA remains committed to providing the highest quality waste management services to our community.
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Will they hit the jackpot in Atlantic City -- or face a busted flush?

Thats the question for the title novelist and her childens nanny in Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice (320 pages, Minotaur, $27), the fourth novel in Elle Cosimanos series that blends homicide and humor.

As the story opens, writer Finlay and sidekick Veronica Vero Ruiz travel from Northern Virginia to New Jersey to confront vicious loan shark Marco Toscano, who has ordered the kidnapping of Veros longtime boyfriend. Meanwhile, Marco wants his prized Aston Martin back, his dim nephew, Ike Grindley, has vanished, and Russian mobster Felixs Zhirov holds multiple grudges and remains a threat.

Complicating matters, Finlays former husband, Steven, their two small children, Delia and Zach, and Finlays mother, Susan, join the journey.

As the plot spins, two men are found dead in a far-from-luxurious hotel, an attempt to raise the $200,000 that Vero owes continues, and more of Finlays acquaintances  including her boyfriend, Fairfax County Police Department detective Nick Anthony -- descend on the hotel.

With such a fast-moving and serpentine storyline, Cosimano, who lives in Nelson Countys Blue Ridge Mountains, needs no subplots. But bless her for including them as she further develops the main characters and paints a realistic vision of the secrets and schemes of friends and families.

Hitting all the right notes, she pulls off a novel that depicts ruthless criminality (a body in the bathtub) while also offering knee-slapping hilarity (the dispute between our heroines and a bevy of boozy bachelorettes in a strip joint).

Enjoy her creativity.

***

In the lofty world of academia, aspirations include comity and collegiality.

But behind the veneer of amiability lie whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead mens bones, and of all uncleanness (Matthew 23:27).

Alexandria resident G.M. Malliet offers the latter in The Washing Away of Wrongs (320 pages Constable, $17.99), the eighth entry in her series featuring MI5 agent-turned Anglican priest Max Tudor, the rector of St. Edwolds Church in the village of Nether Monkslip, England.

When Hilda Graybill, the widow of the Rev. Dr. Acerton Graybill, the chaplain of St. Lukes College at Oxford University, suspects that her husbands death was not attributable to natural causes, Maxs bishop dispatches him to St. Lukes  the priests alma mater  to investigate. Upon his arrival, he begins to question prominent employees.

Among them are the colleges principal, the bursar, the HR chief, an architect, the director of development, the elderly librarian and others, including a wealthy American couple helping to finance the restoration of the chapel.

Max, who as an undergraduate considered the chaplain a dear friend, also must deal with a stubborn, high-level cop who scoffs at Hildas instincts.

Malliet, also the author of two other crime-fiction series, forges another artful and trenchant mystery as she creates her characters with panache. Devotees of British mysteries will delight in her latest triumph, an intricate and classic whodunit.

***

A prolific author of more than 70 books, Rita Mae Brown does not take long to reveal a corpse in Lost & Hound (272 pages, Ballantine, $28) -- the latest installment in her series featuring Sister Jane Arnold, Master of Foxhounds at the Jefferson Hunt Club in Albemarle County.

The body tied to a chair belongs to Timothy Snavely, an export-import businessman recently back from Namibia but with no apparent reason to be in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Whats up with some missing but relatively inexpensive stamps from lawyer Barry Harpers collection?

And who tried to kill Ronnie Haslip, Jefferson Hunts treasurer?

The cozy quotient in the Sister Jane books springs from Browns residence in nearby Greenfield in Nelson County, which feeds her love for animals, whether bipeds or quadrupeds, spotlights her vibrant characterizations of Virginians, whether long-timers or newcomers, and heightens her devotion to rural life and the wonders of nature.

Banned books make up the sophomore English curriculum at this high school Banned books make up the sophomore English curriculum at this high school
Chesterfield County police on Friday said they had arrested three suspects  two of whom were apprehended in Tennessee  in connection with the Saturday homicide of Qadriq Scott, 22.

Police said Christopher Rhames, 23, of Chesterfield, was arrested Sunday in the 2100 block of Marina Drive and is currently being held at Riverside Regional Jail without bond. Zhekour Ross, 21, of Richmond, and Amaris Hemphill, 29, of Chesterfield, both were arrested by police in Monterey, Tennessee, on Wednesday afternoon and are currently in custody in Putnam County, Tennessee, awaiting extradition to Chesterfield.

Chesterfield police officers initially responded to the 2500 block of Marina Drive at around 2:09 p.m. Saturday for the reports of an unconscious male. At the scene, officers found Scott, who had sustained a gunshot wound.

Scott, who was acquainted with the suspects, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

Rhames and Ross have been charged with second-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, according to court records. Hemphill has been charged as an accessory after the fact and with unauthorized use of a vehicle.

Rhames is next scheduled to appear in court on June 26. Ross and Hemphills next court dates could not immediately be determined.

The incident remains under investigation.
Supreme Court determines criminal background check for pubic drivers not feasible

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  The Supreme Court of the Nation has determined the request for criminal background checks for public drivers violates the right to equality as well as a negative impact on freedom of work.

The Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Nacion (SCJN) has determined that letters of no criminal record violate the right to equality and non-discrimination when they involve generic requirements and no justification for the job position.

The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) reiterated the invalidity of letters of no criminal record for vacancies in the government and the private sector, at least as a generic requirement.

The resolution arises from the legislative review after requests in two states. In Quintana Roo, the Mobility Law established the letter of no criminal record as a requirement for drivers of digital platforms.

In Sonora, a criminal background check was requested for those wishing to hold professional state positions.

In the analysis of Article 151 of the Quintana Roo Mobility Law, the SCJN determined that in addition to violating the right to equality and non-discrimination, the measure had a negative impact on freedom of work.

In the case of Sonora, the Court ruled that the requirement  in addition to being discriminatory  is generic and over-inclusive. Considering it a criterion aimed at all applicants that did not distinguish between serious or non-serious crimes.

In a statement, the SCJN reported The legislation of Quintana Roo required a letter of no criminal record to be a driver of the passenger transportation service contracted through technological platforms.

The Plenary Session of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation ( The Court ) invalidated section IX of article 151, of the Mobility Law of the State of Quintana Roo, reformed by Decree 058, published on April 28, 2023 , in which a requirement to be accredited as a driver of the passenger transportation service contracted through technological or digital platforms was provided for presenting a non-criminal record letter.

The Court determined that such a requirement transgressed the right to equality and non-discrimination, and that it had a negative impact and without sufficient justification on the freedom to work, which is why it was not suitable for carrying out a constitutionally valid purpose.

The Court concluded that the above does not prevent it from being possible to include a condition of this type for certain public jobs, as long as the crimes have the potential to directly affect the function to be performed and the capabilities required for it. which would have to be fully justified.

The request for a criminal background check for public digital platform drivers was added in the latest revisions of the Mobility Law of Quintana Roo.
The Vietnam War has been depicted onscreen repeatedly, usually as a cautionary tale of American hubris and young male naivete. But a 2002 film directed by Randall Wallace ( Braveheart ) and starring Mel Gibson sees the war, and the men who died fighting in, with very different eyes.

Memorial Day was first instituted in the aftermath of the Civil War, to appease the suffering caused by the terrible bloodshed of that conflict, in which almost as many men died as in the wars of the 20th century combined. It had become necessary to give a public character to mourning since the survivors could not forget their family members, and the cemeteries, at that time still very much connected with churches, were full of the memory of the war, as were so many other institutions. At that time, it was called Decoration Day.

Then came the World Wars, and the character of dying for America changed. The nation became the preeminent power in the world, as well as the savior of civilization. Memorial Day thus lost the sorrow and guilt and fears that come from internecine strife, not least since these heroes were shared as the property and responsibility of the whole nation, now no longer divided. Though denied triumph, this was later true of the men who died in the Korean War.

After the Vietnam War, the meaning of Memorial Day changed to the holiday we understand today. After assuming superpower status, America paradoxically started losing wars; at the same time, the military was transformed into a volunteer force, so that most citizens are divided from it, so to speak, almost at birth. We are nevertheless pious toward our military dead. We have learned again regret and guilt; we are divided about most of our wars, more than our enemies, it seems. We begin to suspect that war is tragic and that there is something wrong with our power.

Certainly, our more famous artists have usually reflected on the Vietnam War as a moment of loss of American innocence, an act of madness, an evil use of American power. However we might think about those works of art or the social drama in which they played their part, they are not suitable for Memorial Day. I suggest we should turn instead to Mel Gibsons We Were Soldiers (2002), based on Lt. Gen. Hal Moores 1992 war memoir, adapted for the screen and directed by Randall Wallace.

We Were Soldiers is a beautified account of the first major engagement of the Vietnam War, the Battle of Ia Drang, November 1418, 1965, focusing on the action at LZ X-Ray, November 1416. American Air Cavalry fought elements of the North Vietnamese Army in the central highlands of Vietnam near the Cambodian border, heavily outnumbered, by day and by night, to a stalemate. The spectacle of war reveals the nobility of the men fighting, both because they prove undaunted and because they care for each other in their suffering. Its a true story and it attests to the truth we have in mind when we call such men the best that America has to offer.

Hal Moore, then an ambitious lieutenant colonel, commanded the 1st Battalion of the 7th Cavalry, about 400 men, a new kind of unit, riding helicopters, designed for mobility and heavily dependent on support. He trained them at Fort Benning (renamed Fort Moore in his honor last year) before deploying to Vietnam with them. Moore is portrayed by Gibson as a patriarch: a practicing Catholic with a large family; concerned for his men in their private lives as well as in their capacity as soldiers; manly, confident, and demanding, concerned with excellence rather than inclusion. At the same time, the movie concludes its long stateside introductory sequence with a speech that affirms the civil rights extension of the American founding and offers the military as the embodiment of the spirit of e pluribus unum.

The most distinctive aspect of We Were Soldiers follows from that characterization. It is the display of the moral and practical qualities of American soldiers, which requires a certain marginalization of the technical qualities. The ordinary viewer will understand almost nothing about air support. He will see, on the other hand, the remarkable decency of 50s America; he will be surprised by how confident people used to be as Christians; and he will be shocked by the number of young men who are married with children, competent soldiers, and willing to risk their lives to save a fellow soldier. Unlike most Vietnam movies, it is dedicated to portraying and honoring the nation that went to war, not the nation that came out of it, divided and prey to various social and political crises.

Moore said he wrote We Were Soldiers Once  and Young because he felt the movies always got the story of the war wrong and he wanted to tell it right as a protagonist in its early stages; this is obviously also the intention of writer-director Randall Wallace (Braveheart). The result seems to be selectively nostalgic for that older America that Moore feared Lyndon Johnsons Great Society had ruined. The special virtue of the movie is to remind us of whats true in that nostalgia, which we sense somehow when we admire, honor, and mourn our soldiers. The young men we see really are better than we arenot simply because they died for us, but also because of the way they lived.

It is a very strange fact of human nature, something our therapeutic talk of trauma hides from us, that remarkable virtues should show up where there is great suffering. But even aside from the day of battle, these men are better able to live as a community and to strive to improve themselves. Our children should imitate them. To a large extent, We Were Soldiersshows us an America we recognize, but it is very difficult to believe we could have it again. For my part, I do not see that it is impossible, but I am not sure that most people today desire it, because it would impose demands on our lives we are unwilling to bear.

The connection between the terrible battle that occupies most of the movie and the depiction of the soldiers lives at Fort Benning, where their wives organize the community of the military base and suffer the misery of incurring privately the losses that the nation demands publicly of the men, is the issue of loyalty. That is something we remember perhaps only on Memorial Day, something no longer honored or welcome in most of our institutions, replaced by the unceasing culture war. This is why the movie ends with the Vietnam War Memorial, which is architecturally a catastrophe but has been hallowed by the memory of the men who died testifying to a duty of a divine character, something greater than any one mans life.
HARTSVILLE, S.C.  Hartsville chamber members were invited to hear from the areas power players in economic development Tuesday in what was appropriately called a power breakfast at the Hartsville Country Club.

Chamber president Murphy Monk, who had just completed a Leadership SC program in Columbia where she was introduced to the concept, organized the event.

I felt it was important. So many things happen in Columbia and unless you have the opportunity to be there and follow it closely, you dont know, so I wanted to bring the opportunity back to Hartsville.

Speakers from Duke Energy, MPD Electric Cooperative and the North Eastern Strategic Alliance gave reports of the trends they are seeing in their industries.

Duke Energy's Laura Basta speaks to the Hartsville Chamber Your browser does not support the audio element.

Laura Basta, site vice president at Duke Energys Robinson nuclear plant, gave an overview of the plant that produces 800 megawatts of clean, carbon-free electricity and employs 500.

She highlighted the commitment of employees to the community who volunteer and serve in various groups in Darlington County. Robinson employees also raised over $100,000 for local charities this through their employee giving campaign in partnership with the Duke Energy foundation.

The plant also partnered with the Darlington County Partnership board and the Darlington County school district to give local eighth-graders on opportunity to explore what the plant offers the community and job opportunities available in electrical generation.

Robinson is looking at 2030 and beyond, Basta said.

The operating license for the nuclear station through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission goes through July 2030. In 2019, Duke Energy announced their intention to seek subsequent license renewal for its entire nuclear fleet, aiming to make nuclear the cornerstone of Duke Energys clean energy portfolio.

Basta said Robinson will submit its application for subsequent license renewal in the spring of 2025 to license the facility through 2050.

Duke Energy's Jay Oliver speaks to Hartsville Chamber members Your browser does not support the audio element.

Jay Oliver, the managing director of grid systems integration at Duke Energy, said the 11 nuclear units across the Carolinas give the area a massive advantage and is a critical component of industry wanting to come here.

He said thats because nuclear energy is cost effective, reliable, clean energy. He spoke about the planning it takes to prepare for growth and the role network transmissions play into their planning, as much as 5-8 years in advance.

There was a dramatic increase in what we saw and planned for in 2022 vs. what we see today. The growth is eight times what we expected in 2022, Oliver said.

Oliver also spoke about the roles consumers play on demand response and the importance of being energy efficiency. The company has an incentive program for customers to use less electricity during high demands. He said every bit counts, even 1% of 20 gigawatts makes a big difference.

The company has a progressive plan of utilizing batteries for energy storage.

There are more batteries in this room than there are people, he said. But these are the size of 18-wheelers.

Batteries are fast-acting, not reliant upon another source (sun) and can be used for hours when needed for hours at a time.

MPD Electric Cooperative's Ben Fleming speaks to the Hartsville Chamber Your browser does not support the audio element.

Ben Flemming, chief operating officer for MPD Electric Cooperative, spoke of the importance of supporting resource growth.

Im in favor of all the above, he said, referring to building more power plants, natural gas power plants and pipeline access.

Our state legislature is very aware of this, he said.

Its very important we dont retire our coal plants until we have something to replace it with. Heres what Im telling you. Weve got to have more than we currently have so we cant go backwards.

Flemming noted the growing demand for electricity through population growth and the energy demand for industries desiring to move to the state, particularly data centers.

The AI revolution is changing our industry in ways I have never seen in my lifetime. Its going to change it very rapidly.

The CEO also spoke about the importance of being community focused and keeping rates low for their 40,000 members.

We have the lowest electric rates in South Carolina and the lowest rates of any electric cooperative in the Southeast, Were very proud of that, he said.

Employees are involved in community programs and the co-op awards 10 scholarships of nearly $10,000 each.

The co-op also focuses on economic development and continuing a commitment to expanding its commerce city project, Florence County commerce park off of I-95, and developing its latest industrial park in Darlington County by I-20.

NESA's Jeff McKay speaks to the Hartsville Chamber Your browser does not support the audio element.

Jeff McKay is the executive director of the North Eastern Strategic Alliance, a nine-county regional economic development organization that covers a 900,000-populated area from south of Charlotte, N.C., to the coastal regions of Georgetown. He said the organization exists because of the old adage of being stronger in numbers.

McKay said over the last decade, the region became the fastest growing metropolitan statistical area in the country.

The top key industries of the region include agribusiness, distribution and logistics, advanced manufacturing, engineered materials, and life sciences. Research and data have become more important than ever.

He said the number one thing companies look to NESA for is to mitigate risks in their million and billion-dollar decisions.

As many companies are transitioning to automated facilities, he said first and foremost they are looking for reliable and available power.

Theyve got to be convinced that you got it now, youll have it five years from now and youll have it 20 years from now as they grow.

McKay said among the trends affecting power are green energy and data center information infrastructure and shared a statistic he read:

A data center today will use 1/10 of the power that a data center of the future will use as AI comes on line.

He said its not just data centers; manufacturing facilities also have complex equipment that relies on the availability of power.

From an economic development standpoint as a region and state, potential challenges could be legislative and civic will, cost to taxpayers and stakeholders, and scales and timelines for build-out and upgrades, McKay said.

Chamber president Murphy Monk, who had just completed a Leadership SC program in Columbia, organized the event.

I felt it was important. So many things happen in Columbia and unless you have the opportunity to be there and follow it closely, you dont know, so I wanted to bring the opportunity back to Hartsville, Monk said.
Four months after a report said the state's health department is not in compliance with federal voting law, state officials have announced steps and a rough timeline to boost voter registration access for Iowa Medicaid applicants.

The Iowa Capital Dispatch reported in January that application and renewal mailers sent out by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services for Medicaid and state-funded health insurance plans violated federal law by failing to provide a prominent and convenient opportunity to register to vote.

The application and renewal forms for Iowas Medicaid, Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki) and Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP) contained one sentence about voter registration at the bottom of page 16 of the 27-page application. It included an online address leading to a state voter registration form that must be printed out and mailed to an election office. However, no mailing address is provided on the form.

The National Voter Registration Act of 1993 sought to expand opportunities to register to vote by creating more uniform processes and designating more places and methods to register. The law requires states offer voter registration opportunities at certain state and local offices, including public assistance and disability offices.

State Rep. Adam Zabner, a Democrat from Iowa City, has pressed state officials for details and a timeline for fixing the issue.

Allowing Iowans who re-register for Medicaid the opportunity to register to vote is a crucial piece of making sure that all Iowans, even those from disadvantages backgrounds are included in our voting process, Zabner said last month during a point of privilege on the Iowa House floor.

We are failing to engage the people who most need that opportunity, Zabner said.

More than 400,000 Iowa adults are on Medicaid of state-funded health insurance plans.

During the 2022 general election cycle, 1,222 Iowans registered to vote via state public assistance agencies, accounting for 0.1 percent of new voter registration applications in the state, according to data from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

That is well below the national average of 1.4 percent. Voter rights advocates have said the non-compliant Iowa Medicaid forms are likely a reason.

Zabner noted in comparison that Kentucky  a state with a population of roughly 4.5 million people  registered more than 88,000 voters through public assistance agencies, nearly 72 times that of Iowa and its population of about 3.2 million.

Nebraska registered just 225 voters through state public assistance agencies, Missouri 13,430, Illinois 22,780 and South Dakota 4,588. Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and some other states are exempt from the federal law.

Iowans are facing down one of the most important elections in American history, and they are being denied their federal right to register to vote, Zabner said.

Iowa Health and Human Services Director Kelly Garcia, in an email Wednesday to Zabner, wrote the department is on track to ensure renewal forms mailed in August contain a voter registration form in the packet.

Medicaid renewal forms, which are the only remaining change needed for the Medicaid program, are autogenerated in batches, typically in the tens of thousands, and printed and batched mailed by the Department of Administrative Services, Garcia wrote in the email provided to The Gazette by both the department and Zabner.

The additional pages in the packet required machine reconfiguration, a new envelope and new postage amounts, Garcia wrote.

As of this week, we have run small batch tests, working with the machine vendor and (Iowa Department of Administrative Services), and are working with (the U.S. Postal Service) to ensure appropriate postage is applied, she wrote.   We must finalize this process and complete full testing by early June, which is the cut off date to ensure a true August time frame.

In an April 19 email to the Iowa City Democratic lawmaker, Garcia said the department was unaware of the compliance issue and was surprised to learn about it from the Iowa Capital Dispatchs reporting.

She wrote that several technical and logistical constraints, notably a major system upgrade of the IT system that houses the departments forms, mean that coming into compliance is not as nimble as I would want or certainly as you expect.

She noted that under Gov. Kim Reynolds realignment of state government, the department has created a new compliance division that is working through a major system overhaul of the departments forms.

This work will include reviewing content within federal and state laws to ensure compliance, revisiting forms for overall readability and accessibility, and strengthening connections between programs, Garcia wrote.

In addition, forms currently completed in a fillable PDF and emailed to the department will be converted to an online forms platform to increase accessibility and security, a spokesman said.

Speaking this week to The Gazette, Zabner said he was concerned by what he felt has been a lack of urgency by the department to address the issue. But Garcia, in her email Wednesday, told Zabner that her staff are indeed taking this work seriously.
On the day Marilyn Mosby staged her star-making press conference on the steps of a downtown Baltimore courthouse in April 2015, I was a few blocks away sitting with the family of Freddie Gray and their attorney. Mosby announced shed be charging six police officers in his death.

This is a moment. This is your moment, Mosby said. She didnt have to say it was also her moment, because that seemed obvious. Just four months into her job as the youngest chief prosecutor of any major U.S. city at the time, Mosby seemed destined for far greater heights. The daughter of two police officers, wife of an influential City Council member, and now the chief prosecutor against those Baltimore cops in the national movement for police reformwhere else would she be going but up?

Her commanding presence in front of the cameras and microphones won her a lot of new fans. Gene Demby of NPRs Code Switch pointed out that she had about 10,000 followers on Twitter in the hour after the speech; a few hours later, that number had more than doubled. It felt a little like Mosby has supplanted Thurgood Marshall or Claire Huxtable as the most beloved black attorney in American history, he wrote.

Back at the attorneys office, I watched Grays family and lawyers all moved to tears by Mosbys wordseven famously cocksure defense attorney Billy Murphy!and her audacious attempt to hold Baltimore police accountable for Grays death. She even convinced me this might be an inflection point in the reform movement, after similar cases in Staten Island and Ferguson, Missouri, ultimately ended with no charges or indictments. Murphy seemed to feel the same way: I prayed to be involved in this national debate on police brutality. It was an answer to my prayers because Im tired of it, he said.

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Its surreal to think about all thats happened to her and herall of ourgoals for police accountability efforts around the country since that day.

She is no longer serving in any elected capacity. Instead, in two federal court trials, Mosby has been found guilty of perjury related to COVID-19-related hardship withdrawals from her retirement account and a vacation home mortgage. She faced as many as 40 years in prison. But on Thursday, a federal judge sentenced her to 12 months of home detention, three years of supervised release, and 100 hours of community service.

Prior to her sentencing hearing, Mosby took her case to friendly media outlets like MSNBCs The ReidOut and The Breakfast Club morning radio show. Early in May, she applied for a presidential pardon with the backing of the Congressional Black Caucus. In her writing for that, she remained defiant about her lack of guilt: While pardon applications generally express remorse and regret, what happens when justice was not served and in fact, denied? No such remorse and regret is appropriate in this case, Mosby wrote in her application.

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More dispiriting than her spiral has been the coordinated backlash against progressive prosecutors around the country. For some time, it felt like the movement was actually gaining momentum. After a Minneapolis police officer killed George Floyd in 2020, many district attorneys in major urban areas pledged to hold law enforcement accountable for their abuses. But in the years since, from Los Angeles to Chicago to Philadelphia, those prosecutors have faced a series of legal and political challenges from the right that have steadily thinned their ranks.

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The prosecution of Mosby, who preceded that wave of reform-minded attorneys, seems in many ways to be the ignominious end of that particular movement.

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There was great appetite for the changes of scale and scope of the problem in 2020that appetite died in 2020, said Phillip Atiba Solomon, a co-founder of the Center for Policing Equity and chair of African American studies and professor of psychology at Yale University.

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Solomon noted that this was normal, to some extent: If were looking for progress on any segment of justice, including reform, it should always be seen through the context of cycles of backlash, he added. As someone whos been covering protests against police abuse for more than a decade now, I often think back to that spring afternoon in Baltimore when Mosby seemed ascendant and police reform seemed possible. Whats happened since should show us all how difficult this battle will really be. And it will require an almost superhuman level of diligence and discipline that can survive the backlash sure to come.

Charming and telegenic, Mosby quickly became a national sensation. The HuffPost asked, Who is this objectively badass attorney running the Freddie Gray investigation? Mosby and her husband, Nick, were invited onstage by Prince at a concert in Baltimore. She was profiled in Vogue magazine and photographed by Annie Leibovitz.

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At the time, I assumed that if they worked it correctlyand thats a big ifbut if they worked it correctly, Nick would be mayor and Marilyn would run for Senate, said Derek Musgrove, a history professor at University of MarylandBaltimore County and author of Rumor, Repression, and Racial Politics: How the Harassment of Black Elected Officials Shaped Post-Civil Rights America.

Thats sort of how it could work in a best-case scenario,  Musgrove said.

Needless to say, it did not turn out to be a best-case scenario for Mosby.

I returned to Baltimore in November 2015 for the trial of William Porter, one of the cops who was alleged to have killed Gray. Porter had dropped out of junior college and entered the Baltimore police academy in 2012, hoping to restore trust in law enforcement in the same poverty-stricken neighborhoods where he grew up. Thats what Baltimore Police looks for, the leader of the union for the citys black officers told me at the time.

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In 2015, nearly 40 percent of the sworn police officers in Baltimore were Blacka figure that dwarfed much larger cities like Los Angeles and Dallas. But after his arrest, Porter became an example of the failed promise of community policing. He was charged with failing to seek medical treatment for Gray, who was cuffed around his wrists, lying on his side, and loudly complaining that he couldnt breathe in the back of a police van. It was soon discovered Gray suffered a severe spinal cord injury in the van that led to his death seven days later.

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Grays death kicked off protests and, ultimately, riots in the same streets Porter had patrolled for three years. Having covered that fiery unrest, I could understand why many Black Baltimoreans saw a champion in Mosby. She took the anger seriously, and seemed willing to channel it into action.

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That was really a singular thing, said Lisa Snowden, editor in Chief of Baltimore Beat, a local online news site. When you see a lot of these folks rallying around her [now], they still remember thatthats how powerful that moment was.

But Mosbys prosecutors couldnt secure a conviction against Porter. His trial ended almost three weeks later in a mistrial, after jurors were unable to reach a verdict on any of his charges after three days of deliberation. The disappointment was palpable as I walked out of the courtroom that afternoon and followed Mosby down the same steps that she had dramatically descended eight months earlier. The swagger was gone; she hugged her prosecutors and rushed out with her security detail, taking no questions.

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Up against a judge who insisted there wasnt enough evidence to support the charges, three of the other officers allegedly involved in Grays death were found not guilty in separate trials in May, June, and July 2016. Finally, Mosby conceded that she had little chance of securing a conviction and dropped criminal charges against the remaining officers still awaiting trial, including Porter. She called the decision agonizing.

There was little anger in the streets, mostly just resignation.

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The Freddie Gray trial made me feel like were not ready for this part of reform, Solomon said. That was the one that hit me real hard.

Part of the resignation may have had to do with how novel these trials really were. Mosby preceded the wave of big-city progressive prosecutors who took office in the years after, particularly in the wake of Floyds murder in 2020Larry Krasner in Philadelphia, Kim Foxx in Chicago, and Chesa Boudin in San Francisco, among many others. So, Mosby had to look to an earlier generation of prosecutors, like Kamala Harris, as role models. She touted the benefits of a diversionary program for first time, nonviolent offenders that Harris implemented as the district attorney in San Francisco. Mosby also talked about trying a community prosecution model, which involved assigning prosecutors to specific geographic areas to better cultivate trust with residents. She traveled around the country, visiting with other district attorneys to get ideas for how to improve her office. I honestly believe that Im following my passion, which has always been to reform the criminal justice system, she told Baltimore magazine in January 2015.

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But her failures in the Gray cases made her a high-profile target of Donald Trump, other prominent right-wing political figures, and law enforcement around the country. She talked of receiving racist hate mail and death threats at her office and home. In October 2015, she was the subject of a cover story headlined The Wolf That Lurks for the Sergeants Benevolent Associations magazine. The cops were not on her side.

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That was to be expected. But by the time the New York Times Magazine profiled her in September 2016, Mosby already seemed to be wilting under the unforgiving spotlight. In the profile, critics bemoaned several tactical errors committed by her office during the trials. She countered that Baltimore police never seriously pursued the possibility of wrongdoing by the cops and showed little enthusiasm for her investigations. Mosby also accused the police commissioner and mayor of misinforming the public about the case, showing her isolation among city leaders.

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That profile also seemed to expose growing friction between her and her husband, Nick, who suffered through several embarrassing pollsmostly in the single digitsbefore abandoning his mayoral campaign earlier that year.

Compounding her troubles, five of the six officers charged by Mosby in Grays death sued her for malicious false arrest, false imprisonment, and defamation, among other claims. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals later ruled in 2018 that she was protected by absolute prosecutorial immunity, but it still left Mosby feeling under siege.

Times writer Wil Hylton closed his profile by pointing out that Mosby had lost quite a bit in trying those cases. It sometimes seemed as if the only public figure who had really suffered for [Grays] death, who put her career and private life on the line, whether right or wrong, the elected official who paid the highest price was the one who set out to make sure someone did, he wrote.

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In Mosbys reelection campaign in 2018, she once again faced questions about her record and legal strategy during the Freddie Gray trials. And now she had to defend her record amid a soaring local murder ratethe Washington Post said Baltimore had the greatest raw number increase in killings of any city other than Chicago.

Mosby countered by saying her staff had a felony conviction rate of 92 percent and that, true to her previous campaign promises, her office had made a priority of going after repeat offenders.

Still bolstered by the support of Baltimoreans who admired her courage in going after the police, Mosby won with 50 percent of the vote. If the Baltimore city police doesnt like her for charging their officers, then shes definitely my candidate, one voter told the Washington Post.

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This time, Mosby was catching the wave of the broader national leftward shift among big-city prosecutors. She tried to build on the public trust in her office: She stopped pursuing charges against people for marijuana possession in 2019 and expanded that approach the next year to drug possession, prostitution, minor traffic violations, and other low-level offenses. One reason she gave for her efforts was to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Baltimore jails.

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Bolstered by declining crime rates, Mosby said that experiment was going to become permanent. Clearly, the data suggest there is no public safety value in prosecuting low-level offenses, she said in March 2021.

As she made these changes, Mosby also faced accusations that she was too often out of town, on lavish trips sponsored by nonprofits and other groups, where she researched other countries and cities approaches to crime and prisons. The local online news site Baltimore Brew reported that from 2018 to 2019, none of Marylands other 23 county states attorneys reported any similar reimbursed travel. Mosby called on inspector general Isabel Mercedes Cumming to investigate in July 2020, hoping to exonerate herself with some transparency. The people of Baltimore have endured far too many corruption scandals and need to know what is and is not illegal, she wrote in her request to Cumming.

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Depending on who you are, Cummings investigation uncovered, in the most generous interpretation, sloppy recordkeeping, or deliberate deception, if you were inclined to believe Mosby was using her office to enrich herself. The IGs report found that Mosby established three different businesses in 2019, including a travel agency targeted to underserved Black families, which the IG concluded served mostly to write off federal tax expenses.

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After the investigation was completed, Cumming forwarded it with business and tax concerns to the FBI. This is what opened up Mosby to a review of her financial records, leading to an indictment by a federal grand jury in January 2022. Federal prosecutors accused Mosby of falsely claiming that she suffered adverse financial consequence that would allow her to withdraw $90,000 from a retirement account under the CARES Act, which was passed in March 2020 to help people who were employed but could no longer afford contributions to those accounts. Mosby used that money not for necessary living expenses, but to buy a home in Kissimmee, Florida, and a condominium in Longboat Key, Florida.

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In the indictment, prosecutors said, Rather than experiencing a reduction in income in 2020, Mosbys gross salary in 2020 increased over her gross salary in 2019, which was $238,772.04. Prosecutors also claimed that Mosby made false statements on the loan applications for the properties in Florida.

Mosbys attorneys countered that, The prosecution  has been driven by malicious personal, political, and even racial animus on the part of the prosecutors and accused them of preventing her from testifying before the grand jury that ultimately returned the indictment. Not only did the Government fail to respond to this demand (and did not allow her to testify), it did not even take the offer seriously, her attorneys wrote in a motion to dismiss the indictment.

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In spite of her protests, Mosby was found guilty of two counts of perjury in November and again in February on a charge of making a false mortgage application. Ms. Mosbys conduct undermines the confidence the public deserves to have in their government officials, acting Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock of the FBIs Baltimore Field Office said in a statement.

Despite facing indictment throughout 2022, Mosby still attempted to run for reelection to a third term. She finished third in the Democratic primary. Just like that, Mosby had been drummed out of political officeat the same time that many of her progressive prosecutor peers around the country were also losing their races.

Like I said before, what you think of what happened to Marilyn Mosby and her sparkling career prospects depends on a lot of thingshow much you liked her in the first place, how much you agree with her vision of police reform, what your standards are for politicians to behave perfectly. What I will say is that while Im not sure she was blameless, I think a strong case can be made that were it not for the specifically strict scrutiny her prosecution of those cops brought her, no one would have gone digging for what she did with her retirement fund or how she bought her vacation homes. And I think the cause of that scrutiny matters.

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Carl Rowan had this great line: He said, Black officials have to be purer than Caesars wife, Musgrove said, quoting the late Black journalist who once appeared on President Richard Nixons enemies list. And if not, someone is going to get them.

Musgrove called it harassment ideology, a term he gives to the organized efforts to weaken and even unseat Black political leadership in the postcivil rights era.

Musgroves book gave a name to the nagging suspicion Ive had dating back to my days covering City Hall in Shreveport, Louisiana. It first started when I began covering a Black city councilman there whod spent a year in federal prison for accepting a bribe in the 1990s. He insisted that he was set up, and that hed only done what hed seen his white counterparts do themselves.

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Mosby and supporters havent shied away from this same argument on the media tour shes been on over the past month, sharing her fall from grace with the likes of Roland Martin and Charlamagne tha God.

Something like this goes beyond Marilyn Mosby, Mosby said on The ReidOut. If they can do this to Marilyn Mosby, who had the audacity to challenge the status quo, they can do this to anybody.

Theres something to that. All around the country, Republican-led backlash against progressive prosecutors has been gaining more support. In many ways, it was perhaps inevitable, especially with the U.S. murder rate making its largest single-year increase in more than a century, from 2019 to 2020. Tough-on-crime messages are now back in fashion, and conservatives have seized the moment.

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Related From Slate The Key Detail Missing From the Narrative About O.J. and Race Read More

In Los Angeles, there have been two attempts to recall District Attorney George Gascon. A similar recall effort in San Francisco unseated Boudin. In Philadelphia, the GOP-led state House in Pennsylvania attemptedand ultimately failedto impeach Krasner. In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended two prosecutors, including a Democrat who was the only Black woman serving as a local prosecutor in Florida.

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Look what happened to those people. Recalls. Really well-funded challenges. Defeats. Prosecutions, said Musgrove, whos written and lectured extensively about the tradition of systemic harassment of Black public officials. What youre really talking about is an interracial group of reform DAs, who, the moment that popular pressure in the street eased up, got punched in the mouth.

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Given that landscape, its not much of a surprise that Mosby eventually found herself in legal and political peril. Her personal life has also taken a toll: She and Nick Mosby announced they would be getting divorced last summer. When I heard that, I couldnt help but think back to the public stressors that the New York Times Magazine highlighted as putting pressure on the Mosby union. The government is not happy with the dissolution of my marriage, the dissolution of my political career, but theyre still coming after me, Mosby said on the Roland Martin Unfiltered show.

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In recent months, Mosby has turned to the old fan base that still remembers her as the swashbuckling prosecutor who dared to take on Baltimores crooked cops. Shes collected more than $46,000 from an online fundraiser. Shes gathered more than 79,000 signatures on a petition asking for a pardon from the Biden administration. Shes visited news shows targeted at Black audiences, a smart play in a year when Biden will need their robust support in whats sure to be a tight presidential election. But in the most basic sense, Mosby was just trying to stay out of jail and keep her house. After her sentencing hearing Thursday, in a grim bit of irony, Mosby addressed the media and her supporters outside of the courthouse. [God] has touched the heart of this judge and allowed me to go home to my babies, she said.

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Through a representative, I asked Mosby if there was anything to learn about the difficulty of police reform from her plight, if its still a reasonable goal in this hostile political climate.

She responded with the following statement: Yes, its possible if we, as a community, understood the power to set the agenda for our vote in an election year. The fact that Donald Trump has come out and stated that he has every intention to allow police officers to kill (us) with impunity, should be our call to action but unfortunately, its not. Police and justice reform must be at the top of the agenda for Black people in this country.

Hers was a surprisingly hopeful tone, an echo of the young prosecutor I once watched give that speech on those steps. I just wonder how many more like her will be willing to carry on this struggle. After all, they can see what it cost her.
Paulette Dale Burroughs, 80, of Mechanicsville, MD, passed away peacefully at her home on May 21, 2024.

Born on February 22, 1944 in Rocky Mount, NC, she was the daughter of the late George Dennis Batts, Sr. and the late Pauline Dale Smith.



Paulette grew up in a Navy family and as a child traveled all over the country. Their travels eventually brought them to St. Mary's County where she planted her roots. She graduated from Margaret Brent High School in 1962. While there, she met her future husband, Eugene Wallace Burroughs, Sr. and they were married on November 21, 1964.



Paulette was a beautiful, smart, funny, creative and extremely talented woman. She loved her family and friends. She especially loved her grandchildren who she played with the heart and enthusiasm of a child herself. She loved to dance and was an excellent dancer. She was a hard and dedicated worker, at home and at the many jobs she had over the years. She was full of energy and unafraid to tackle any project, and spent many late hours perfecting them.



Paulette was probably best known for her artistic talent. There was nothing she could not do and do it to perfection. Some of her many talents included oil painting, quilting, and sewing, but she created so many other amazing things as well. We were all proud of the grand champion ribbons she won at the St. Mary's County Fair for her quilting and sewing skills.



Paulette was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church where she performed many duties over the years including communion preparer and Sunday school and VBS teacher. She headed the food pantry for many years and volunteered with the fall yard sales, community blood drives at the church and Christmas in April. She also worked in the kitchen to help prepare meals after funerals. Putting her artistic talents to use for the church she crocheted the alter cover, led the craft group that made crafts for the Christmas bazaar and made hundreds of prayer shawls given to those in need.



Paulette is survived by her husband, Eugene Wallace Burroughs, Sr., her son, Eugene Wallace Burroughs, Jr. (Rhonda) of California, MD and her daughter Vicki Gay O'Reilly (Sean) of Mechanicsville, MD. Also surviving her are her brother Phil Batts (Janice) of Mechanicsville, MD, her sister Kathy Snipes (Steve) of Rocky Mount, NC, her sister Debra Winstead (Charles) of Rocky Mount, NC and her brother Joe Batts (Tereca) of Clayton, NC. Also surviving her are her grandchildren; Brittany Zalesak (Gregory), Evan O'Reilly, Ian Burroughs and Tessa O'Reilly and her great grandson, Charles Zalesak. She was preceded in death by her father, mother and brother, Dennis Batts, Jr.



The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM in Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, Mechanicsville, MD, with Rev. Darryl Kemp officiating. Interment will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association and/or Mt. Zion United Methodist Church.


A selection of short feel-good stories from Slovakia.

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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.

Slovak women climbers celebrate epic Everest achievements

Two Slovak women recently made history by being the first to successfully climb the worlds highest mountain.

First, scientist Lucia Janicova became the first Slovak woman to climb Mount Everest on May 12. She started in Nepal and climbed the peak from the southeast ridge as part of a group of more than 20 mountain climbers and sherpas (including experienced sherpa Kami Rita). She used supplementary oxygen.

Im extremely tired, but I feel immense euphoria that I climbed Mount Everest, Janicova said after returning to base camp, as quoted in a press release.

Just nine days later, Lenka Polackova, who has worked as an actor and TV presenter, climbed the mountain, accompanied by her husband and two sherpas. She did not use any supplementary oxygen, and became just the 10th woman in history to conquer the worlds highest summit in this way.

Climbing without oxygen requires a very specific approach, and optimal conditions. Apart from wind, the situation is complicated by the body's adaptation to the thin air, the Sportnet.sk website reported.

Polackova has been working tewards her dream of conquering Mount Everest for several years, but she did not know exactly what to expect.

Everest without oxygen? I want to believe its real. I want to believe that the long weeks spent in the Himalayas acclimatising, ascents and demanding rotations up to 8,000 metres have sufficiently prepared me for this ascent. I couldnt do more in preparation. And this feeling gives me confidence. It was a lot of hard work. But I'm used to working on things. To follow them through hours of effort, struggles with yourself, experiencing moments of weakness, anxiety or exhaustion and then drawing from these moments, she wrote in the base camp before the climb.

Apart from the two women, only eight Slovaks have previously managed to climb Everest. The last time a Slovak set foot on the top of an 8,000m-plus mountain was in 2017, when Peter Hamor climbed Dhaulagiri (8,167 metres above sea level), thus completing the list of all of the "eight-thousanders", Sportnet.sk wrote.

A rare visitor to the fields near Bratislava

The Syslovske polia protected area. (Source: Marek Velcek)

The Syslovske polia protected area for birds, situated just outside the Slovak capital, welcomed a very rare visitor in late May.

A black-winged kite, a diurnal bird of prey best known for its habit of hovering over open grasslands in the manner of much smaller kestrels, was spotted at Three Borders, the place where Slovakia, Austria and Hungary meet.

Up until now, Ive seen black-winged kites only in Asia and Cyprus, and this observation was a big surprise for me, said Jan Dobsovic, a birdwatcher from Watching.sk, as quoted by the TASR newswire. As he explained, this species usually nests in Africa and Asia, and in the Iberian Peninsula.

It is only the third time this species has been observed in Slovakia, Dobsovic added.

Quadrille made Kosice dance

Dancing the quadrille in Kosice. (Source: Facebook/Mesto Kosice)

Wearing yellow and blue costumes in homage to the official colours of Kosice, nearly 2,500 dancers gathered in the eastern Slovak citys streets in late May.

They were dancing the quadrille, as part of the international project European Quadrille Dance Festival, started in 2002 and attended by about 50 cities across Europe.

The project is great because it unites nations, said Milan Placko of the local dance club TC Meteor Kosice, which organised the event together with the City of Kosice.

Ill say it as I feel it  we connect our hearts with everyone, he commented, as quoted by the SITA newswire, adding that the quadrille represents friendship and respect, and that it connects people through generations. Among the dancers in Kosice were mostly pupils from local primary and secondary schools, but also older people.

Apart from Kosice, the quadrille was danced in the towns of Svidnik (eastern Slovakia), Zvolen and Sliac (both in central Slovakia), thus increasing the number of dancers to some 3,000 nationwide, the city wrote on Facebook.

Five feel-good stories published by The Slovak Spectator to read:

Political meme of the week

(Source: SME/Rosie Naive Art)

Wolf: Danko wants to forbid satire.

Red: Well talk in allegories. Epaulettes, traffic lights, I kiss you everywhere...

With this meme, artist Rosie Babicova, whose works can be found on the internet and social networks under the name Rosie Naive Art, reacts to the latest plans by the Slovak National Party (SNS), part of the current governing coalition, and its leader Andrej Danko to censor a satirical website, Zomri. The site often publishes humorous memes, many of which refer to Danko, who has featured in several scandals over the years. This meme by Babicova reacts to Danko being promoted to the military rank of captain in September 2016 when he was speaker of parliament, his recent crash into traffic lights, and his flirtatious communication with Alena Zsuzsova, who has since been convicted of commissioning the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova.

You can send me your tips on good news stories about Slovakia or funny memes at: radka.minarechova@spectator.sk. Thank you!
One of its editors has the same name as a Fico aide but refuses to confirm if he advises the premier.

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A periodical entitled 'Medical News' that uncritically promotes the views of anti-vaxxer and Slovak National Party (SNS) MP Peter Kotlar can currently be found in the waiting rooms of state hospitals.

Kotlar was appointed in January as the government's special envoy for the investigation of the Covid-19 pandemic, but has not yet officially presented his team or any assessment of the pandemic period. Before accepting the role, he was mainly known in conspiracy circles, where he campaigned against vaccines, calling Covid-19 a biological weapon developed by "satanic bases."

One of the editors of 'Medical News' (its Slovak title is 'Lekarske Noviny') has the same first name and surname as one of Prime Minister Robert Fico's advisors from the Smer party. When asked if he is indeed advising him, he did not respond.

The Sme daily spoke to several doctors who are unhappy that the newspaper is promoting the views of people who reject evidence-based science.

Medical news is controversial news

Medical News is a monthly publication that is not audited, making it impossible to verify its actual circulation or sales. It is published by the company Veevent, which is registered to an address in Bratislava's Old Town borough. Karolina Kolesarova is listed as the editor-in-chief and Radoslav Kolesar as the owner.

"It is important to open old wounds, clean them, and let them heal completely," the April edition of Medical News quotes Kotlar as saying in a speech to a conference reviewing the Covid-19 pandemic.

Medical News dedicated three pages to the conference. The article in question, written by Marica Pirosikova, an advisor to Justice Minister Boris Susko (Smer), compiles quotes from conference participants.

All the conference contributors criticised the management of the pandemic response in Slovakia and public health officials for pandemic management, claiming their emergency actions violated constitutional rights.

"From a legal standpoint, I consider the Covid-19 period and the inability to conduct a judicial review of anti-pandemic measures a dark period in Slovak history," the newspaper quotes conference participant Judge Dana Jelinkova Dudzikova, suggesting comparing the anti-pandemic measures to totalitarianism before 1989.

Slovak doctors are ready to oppose

Doctor Milan Kulkovsky told Sme that "Medical News occasionally comes into my hands, and I believe they have their reasons. However, I must honestly say that I am disappointed by the promotion of a person who denies the principles of evidence-based medicine."

Another doctor, who asked to remain anonymous, said it was inappropriate for newspapers with such views to be freely available to patients, especially in places like the waiting rooms at the National Institute of Children's Diseases in Bratislava's Kramare district.

"The National Institute of Children's Diseases does not subscribe to Medical News," said its spokesperson Dana Kamenicka, when Sme enquired. "It is distributed to us for free and, in many cases, delivered to the institute addressed to specific doctors by name," she added.

Medical News defended its promotion of Kotlar by citing its inclusion of other voices, like President Caputova's.

Is one of the editors Fico's adviser?

Despite repeated inquiries, the Sme daily was not able confirm if Medical News editor Jozef Dermek is the same Jozef Dermek who is an official advisor to Prime Minister Robert Fico. Dermek the editor spoke to a Sme reporter, but he refused to clarify if he was also working for the prime minister, stating that he is not the paper's publisher or employee, just an external collaborator. His commentaries appear prominently on the paper's website.
'Medical' freesheet promotes anti-vax views in hospitals, Bratislava's metro, and wine cellars' open day.

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Good evening. Here is the Friday, May 24 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Could young voters buck Slovakia's trend of dismally low European election turnouts?

Elections to the European Parliament will take place in Slovakia on Saturday, June 8. (Source: TASR)

Elections to the next European Parliament will take place across the EU in early June and, traditionally, Slovakia has recorded some of the lowest turnouts among all member states. The last election, in 2019 saw fewer than 23 percent of voters cast a ballot  which was still a record high for Slovakia. At the previous election, in 2014, turnout barely scraped above 13 percent. However, hopes are high that in the upcoming vote  which will take place in Slovakia on Saturday, June 8  young Slovaks will vote in significantly higher numbers than average.

About 58 percent of young Slovaks under 30 have expressed an interest in participating in these elections, focusing on topics such as security (both online and offline), human rights, climate change, and living conditions in Slovakia.

Zuzana Hozlarova, chair of the Student Council of Higher Education and Slovakia's delegate to the Conference on the Future of Europe, discussed with Slovak Foreign Policy Association (SFPA) researcher Miroslava Pisklova how young Slovaks perceive the European Union they grew up in, which areas they consider socially important, their active citizenship, and the challenges they face in Slovakia. Watch their discussion (in Slovak) here.

MORE STORIES FROM THE SLOVAK SPECTATOR WEBSITE

Opinion: A week on from the shocking attack on Prime Minister Robert Fico, there is little sign of a country on edge, writes James Thomson, who ponders why Slovaks seem so unmoved.

A week on from the shocking attack on Prime Minister Robert Fico, there is little sign of a country on edge, writes James Thomson, who ponders why Slovaks seem so unmoved. Politics: The distribution at state hospitals of 'Medical News,' a freesheet whose most recent issue promotes the anti-vax views of SNS MP Peter Kotlar, has left some doctors expressing outrage.

The distribution at state hospitals of 'Medical News,' a freesheet whose most recent issue promotes the anti-vax views of SNS MP Peter Kotlar, has left some doctors expressing outrage. Culture: During the renovation of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Trnava, a hidden 16th-century Gothic chalice was discovered in the walls. It is believed to have been concealed during the 1950s persecution of the church by the communist authorities.

During the renovation of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Trnava, a hidden 16th-century Gothic chalice was discovered in the walls. It is believed to have been concealed during the 1950s persecution of the church by the communist authorities. Good news: This week read three feel-good stories about Slovak women who have recently conquered Everest, a very rare winged visitor to a nature reserve near Bratislava, and a mass quadrille danced in Kosice.

FEATURE STORY FOR THE WEEKEND

Bratislava's metro: A dream or a plan?

A visualisation of the proposed Martanovicova metro station. (Martanovicova Street is the former name for what is now Pribinova Street.) (Source: Andrej Fridrich)

Bratislava is one of the few European capitals that does not have a metro system, but did you know that there was once supposed to be one? Despite repeated attempts, the city's metro project remains unfulfilled. However, you can experience a virtual ride at the city's Museum of Transport!

EVENT FOR THE WEEKEND

Became a sommelier for a day!

(Source: Pixabay)

Across the Little Carpathian region, more than 100 wine cellars will be open on Friday and Saturday for tastings of their best wines. Don't hesitate to became a sommelier for a day and try them yourself! Times and locations can be found here, along with details of other interesting events.

IN OTHER NEWS

Since last week's shooting attack on Prime Minister Robert Fico, the National Criminal Agency (NAKA) has recorded 153 incidents related to approving the murder attempt or hate speech, identifying perpetrators in 55 cases. Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok emphasised zero tolerance for threats and hate speech, noting that all incidents are being thoroughly investigated, including threats against President Zuzana Caputova and opposition leader Michal Simecka. (TASR)

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok emphasised zero tolerance for threats and hate speech, noting that all incidents are being thoroughly investigated, including threats against President Zuzana Caputova and opposition leader Michal Simecka. (TASR) On Monday, May 27, Bratislava's DPB public transport operator will resume the tram service to Zlate Piesky in the north of the city. The line has been closed for modernisation, including renovation of tracks and platform improvements; the final touches should be completed by the end of June. Funded by 24 million from EU funds, the upgrade was carried out to ensure a more comfortable and reliable ride, featuring new trams and advanced electronic information boards. (TASR)

The line has been closed for modernisation, including renovation of tracks and platform improvements; the final touches should be completed by the end of June. Funded by 24 million from EU funds, the upgrade was carried out to ensure a more comfortable and reliable ride, featuring new trams and advanced electronic information boards. (TASR) The Foreign Ministry is advising against travel to certain African countries, including Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Equatorial Guinea, due to safety concerns. The ministry warns of demonstrations and robberies, and of a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Sierra Leone. There is also a high risk of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. Travellers are urged to follow basic safety measures, avoid large gatherings, stay informed through local news and social media, and avoid going out after dark. (TASR)

The ministry warns of demonstrations and robberies, and of a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Sierra Leone. There is also a high risk of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. Travellers are urged to follow basic safety measures, avoid large gatherings, stay informed through local news and social media, and avoid going out after dark. (TASR) Last year, 2,411 missing minors under 18 were reported to the police, with 2,245 cases successfully traced. Cases range from immediate responses to prolonged searches, including instances of parental abduction. As the International Day of Missing Children approaches on May 25, efforts to locate and ensure the safety of these children remain a priority.

WEATHER FOR THE WEEKEND

The weekend weather will be mostly or partly cloudy with light winds, however the met office has issued a level 1 warning due to storms. Sunday will have similar conditions, with a chance of rain at night. The highest daytime temperatures over the weekend will range from 21C to 28C. (SHMU)

NAME DAYS IN SLOVAKIA: Saturday - Urban and Vivien, Sunday - Dusan, Monday - Iveta

Thank you for subscribing and reading. It means a lot to us.

P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.

Follow The Slovak Spectator on Facebook and Instagram (@slovakspectator).
FILE - Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) lines up for a play during the team's NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Dec. 31, 2023, in Indianapolis. Crosby is getting a $6 million raise this season and an additional $1.2 million next year, according to someone with knowledge of the deal. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger, File)

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP)  The Las Vegas Raiders are rewarding star pass rusher Maxx Crosby with a $6 million raise this season and another $1.2 million next year, a person with knowledge of the deal said Thursday.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the contract details had not been announced.

Three years remain on Crosby's contract. He signed a four-year extension in March 2022 worth about $95 million. He was scheduled to approximately $19.38 million this year and $21.92 in 2025, according to Spotrac.

Crosby has become one of the NFL's top pass rushers with 52 sacks over the past five seasons, the fifth most in the league during that period. That total includes 27 during the past two years, three behind Myles Garrett's league-high 30 over that span.

___

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is on the starting grid before the Italy's Emilia Romagna Formula One Grand Prix race at the Dino and Enzo Ferrari racetrack in Imola, Italy, Sunday, May 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno, Pool)

MONACO (AP)  Red Bull boss Christian Horner expressed his surprise that Formula 1s decision to block Andretti Cadillac's attempt to join the series has reached the U.S. Congress.

This week, six U.S. senators asked the Department of Justice to examine whether F1s decision to stop Andretti Cadillac becoming F1s 11th team violated any antitrust laws.

I was surprised to see that Andretti have gone down this process, but hopefully if they really want to find a way onto the grid they will find it, team principal Horner said on Friday at the Monaco Grand Prix. I think the most natural solution is for them to acquire an existing franchise should one want to sell.

GM, under its Cadillac brand, is part of the Andretti Cadillac effort that has been denied by Formula One Management in its request to expand the F1 grid.

Although Michael Andrettis bid was approved by motorsport governing body the FIA, FOM then rejected the application to join in 2025 or 2026 because it did not believe Andretti would be competitive.

F1 management has softened its stance somewhat with a vow to reconsider the application in 2028, when GM has an engine ready to compete.

Horner said he absolutely welcomed Andretti and Cadillac to F1. Michael Andretti, who had 13 races as an F1 driver, is the son of 1978 world champion Mario Andretti.

Andretti has great racing heritage. Mario is a legend of the sport. And of course, Cadillac (is) a huge automotive manufacturer from the US, Horner said. I think to protect the current franchises and stability that we have in the sport, then obviously their best route to goal is to acquire one of the existing teams.

An example of that is how Sauber will team up with Audi for F1 entry in 2026.

Audi shows the right path to come to Formula 1. Of course, Cadillac is a big player and it qualifies this project as a potentially good project," Sauber team representative Alessandro Alunni Bravi said on Friday. "But there is a way that is to buy into an existing team and I think that the process put in place by Formula 1 is a clear one. Very robust project. So I think that they know which could be the (right) way.

Horner refuted any notion that there was an agenda against Andretti and he also praised how F1s American owner, Liberty Media, has both grown the series and made teams stronger.

This isnt about anything to do with Andretti being American. Everything is purely down to the business model that is Formula 1," he said. Liberty have to be congratulated for that, because they created a model where even the worst team in Formula 1 probably has a billion-dollar valuation.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240523/gaza-pier-used-to-feed-idf-before-palestinians---journalist-1118607826.html

Gaza Pier Used to Feed IDF Before Palestinians - Journalist

Gaza Pier Used to Feed IDF Before Palestinians - Journalist

Sputnik International

The US is sending weapons and food to the IDF before feeding Palestinians with its temporary pier, a journalist with sources on the ground in Gaza told Radio Sputnik on Thursday.

2024-05-23T23:56+0000

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analysis

palestinians

un office for the coordination of humanitarian affairs (ocha)

jens laerke

israel

palestine

joe biden

middle east

pentagon

pier

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/08/1117212736_0:0:3067:1725_1920x0_80_0_0_976e41e5a9ae368266c61180a3a4c80e.jpg

According to a journalist with sources on the ground in Gaza, the US-built pier that was constructed off the coast of Gaza ostensibly to bring in aid for hungry Palestinians was first used to bring in military equipment and then food, but the first batches of food went to Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldiers and not the starving citizens of Gaza.Leila Hatoum was a guest on Sputniks Fault Lines on Thursday, where she described the current situation with the controversial pier.Critics have questioned the US intentions in building the pier since US Joe Biden announced the plan during a State of the Union address in March. The $320 million pier is only capable of bringing in 150 aid trucks daily, according to US officials, though some doubt it is even that much. Aid organizations estimate that Gaza needs at least 500 trucks a day to feed the population. That has led many organizations to declare it a complicated and costly distraction when the easier solution would be for Israel to allow aid to flow through land routes.Some have also pointed to nearby Israeli military bases and the significant natural gas reserves off the coast of Gaza as potential alternative motivations for the US.The US has described the pier as temporary.On Wednesday, the Pentagon admitted that none of the aid that had gone through the pier made it to the Palestinian population, blaming hungry Palestinians for intercepting the trucks. On Thursday, the US Central Command announced that three US troops suffered non-combat injuries during the mission, including one who was medivac but declined to provide further details.Even if the pier begins running at full capacity, the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has repeatedly emphasized that it will not be enough and Israel must open land routes to allow aid in.Getting aid to people in need into and across Gaza cannot and should not depend on a floating dock far from where needs are most acute, OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke said.On Monday, the special prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced their intention to seek an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several other high-ranking Israeli officials. On Wednesday, Norway, Spain and Ireland announced that they will formally recognize Palestine as a state later this month, bringing the total number of UN member states that recognize Palestine to 146 out of the 193 members of the General Assembly. However, the addition is significant because many of the holdouts are in Western Europe.While the decision was condemned by Israel, Hatoum argues the European nations are trying to salvage what they can of the state of Israel.They are trying to save the Israeli entity. Israel at the moment is under immense pressure and its in trouble. It hasnt recorded any victories in the past eight months, she explained. October 7th established one of two things. Either the speeding of a two-state solution, or we will not see the Israeli entity as we used to.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240507/is-biden-pushing-for-another-nakba-with-gaza-aid-pier-ploy-1118298323.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240523/israel-faces-diplomatic-defeat-as-european-countries-recognize-palestinian-state-1118593502.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240523/iran-general-staff-found-no-traces-of-bullets-on-crashed-helicopter-of-raisi-1118608160.html

Iran General Staff Found No Traces of Bullets on Crashed Helicopter of Raisi

Iran General Staff Found No Traces of Bullets on Crashed Helicopter of Raisi

Sputnik International

The General Staff of the Iranian army published the preliminary results of the investigation and found no bullet marks were found on the crashed helicopter of late Ebrahim Raisi.

2024-05-23T23:44+0000

2024-05-23T23:44+0000

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world

iran

mashhad

ebrahim raisi

iran president raisi's death

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No bullet marks or similar damage were found on the components of the crashed helicopter, the press service of Iran's General Staff said, as quoted by the Tasnim news agency. The pilot of the crashed helicopter was in contact with the pilots of the other two helicopters of the motorcade before the accident, and the helicopter caught fire after colliding with a hill, the General Staff added.About 3 million people have attended the farewell ceremony in Iran's Mashhad for late President Ebrahim Raisi. His body was buried earlier in the day in Mashhad, Raisi's hometown in northwestern Iran. He was laid to rest in the Imam Reza shrine containing the remains of Ali al-Rida, the eighth Imam of Shia Islam.Some of the 3 million people who attended the ceremony came to Mashhad from other cities and even other countries, such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Turkey, Ghalandar was quoted as saying by the IRNA news agency.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240522/insult-directed-at-entire-nation-kremlin-reacts-to-blinkens-remark-on-raisis-death-1118583728.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/bahrain-asking-for-moscows-support-for-gaza-peace-summit-another-sign-of-us-influence-waning-1118609305.html

US Influence Slipping as Bahrain Calls for Russia's Help in Ending Gaza War

US Influence Slipping as Bahrain Calls for Russia's Help in Ending Gaza War

Sputnik International

The United States' influence is waning in the Middle East, as evidenced by a series of setbacks in the region, the most recent being the King of Bahrain asking for Russia to mediate a peace conference for the Middle East.

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analysis

bernard tremblay

hamad bin isa al khalifa

russia

saudi arabia

israel

arab league

iran

israel-gaza conflict

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The decision to pick Russia represented yet another thumb in the eye to the United States, which has long seen itself as the only country capable of mediating relations between Israel and Palestine.At the Arab summit in Bahrain, the situation in the Gaza Strip was discussed, and we want the war to stop," the king said. There is full agreement among Arab countries on the need to hold a peace conference to resolve the Middle East issue. Russia is the first country to which we have turned with a call to support its holding, as Russia is the most influential country on the international stage.Filmmaker and documentarian Regis Tremblay noted that the League turning to Russia first rather than the United States or a regional ally was an important signal.The United States and the West have played an oversized role in shaping the region for years, brokering deals with Egypt and Jordan to normalize relations with Israel but have made little progress since 1994.[The Arab countries] realize that there has not been any progress. That this has been duplicitous and mendacious all these years. Youre talking 80 years now, Tremblay explained. And now turning to Russia as a mediator. For Russia, this is huge, not only for its international reputation and prestige but for its direct influence in the Middle East. Huge.In November, Saudi Arabia signed a $7 billion currency swap with China, deepening the two countries ties and a potential major step towards Saudi Arabia selling oil priced in Chinese Yuan. And last year, Saudi Arabia resumed diplomatic relations with Iran seven years after severing them.King Hamad also called for the normalization of relations with Iran, another sign of the US waning influence in the region.The Arab League was formed in 1945 and currently consists of 22 Middle Eastern and North African nations, including Jordan and Egypt, two countries seen as friendly to Israel as well as Saudi Arabia, which was reportedly in discussions to normalize relations with Israel before October 7.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240523/bahrain-seeks-russian-support-for-mideast-peace-conference-1118598630.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/biden-at-risk-of-being-excluded-from-ohio-ballot-for-not-meeting-criteria---experts-1118609474.html

Biden at Risk of Being Excluded From Ohio Ballot For Not Meeting Criteria - Experts

Biden at Risk of Being Excluded From Ohio Ballot For Not Meeting Criteria - Experts

Sputnik International

US President Joe Biden is at risk of being excluded from the Ohio ballot in the upcoming presidential election for failing to meet certain criteria in the state law, experts told Sputnik.

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us

joe biden

ohio

democratic party

democratic national convention

2024 us presidential election

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Ohio law requires political parties to certify their candidates with the Secretary of State on or before 90 days prior to an election, but the Democratic National Convention where Biden will be officially nominated as the Democratic presidential candidate wont take place until August 22, which is 75 days before the election. The Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said she won't grant Biden any special exception from the law, and recommended that the Democratic Party find a legally acceptable remedy. The state legislature also isn't willing to attempt to change the state law in Biden's favor, she added. Case Western Reserve University political science professor Jonathan Entin, who also used to be a law clerk for the late Ruth Ginsberg when she was a lower-level judge, told Sputnik the risk of Biden not appearing on the Ohio ballot is shocking. However, Entin expects the Biden campaign to file a lawsuit soon that will likely be successful. University of Cincinnati Political Science Professor David Niven told Sputnik that he expects Biden will eventually end up on the ballot in Ohio but it will take some extraordinary effort to make it happen.The Democratic Party could hold a pre-convention meeting to designate Biden as the nominee within the required timeline in order to qualify him for the ballot, Niven said. If Democratic efforts fail, it will be devastating for the entire Democratic ticket in Ohio if Biden were left off the ballot, Niven said. Biden currently trails former President Donald Trump in the national polls by one point, according to an aggregation by RealClearPolitics.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240522/bidens-approval-rating-falls-to-lowest-in-two-years-1118573099.html

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You are here: Arts

Monks attend a sutra debate at the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Feb. 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)



A total of 28 Tibetan Buddhists were awarded "Tho Ram Pa" degrees, a prestigious academic title equivalent to a doctorate in Tibetan Buddhism, at the High-level Tibetan Buddhism College of China in Beijing on Thursday.

The scholars were from different sects of Tibetan Buddhism, such as Gelug, Nyingma and Sakya. Before receiving the degrees, they completed three years of study, passed their exams and defended their dissertations.

Jamyang Losang Jigme Tubdain Qoigyi Nyima, a living Buddha and the president of the college, presented the monks with their degrees. Zhukang Tubdankezhub, a living Buddha and vice president of the Buddhist Association of China, congratulated the scholars.

Before taking the exams, the monks were greeted by Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po.

To date, 363 Tibetan Buddhism monks have received "Tho Ram Pa" degrees.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/netanyahu-to-hold-urgent-cabinet-consultation-after-un-court-ruling-on-rafah---reports-1118618082.html

Netanyahu to Hold Urgent Cabinet Consultation After UN Court Ruling on Rafah - Reports

Netanyahu to Hold Urgent Cabinet Consultation After UN Court Ruling on Rafah - Reports

Sputnik International

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold an urgent phone consultation with key ministers and the attorney general of Israel following the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling that orders Israel to stop its operation in Rafah, media reported on Friday.

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world

palestine-israel conflict

middle east

benjamin netanyahu

yariv levin

yoav gallant

israel

rafah

south africa

international court of justice

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The consultation was due to start at 5 p.m. local time (14:00 GMT), Israeli news portal Ynet reported, adding that Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Foreign Minister Israel Katz, National Security Council chief Tzachi Hanegbi and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara should be among the participants. Dmitry Gendelman, an adviser to the Israeli prime minister, said that nothing in the world would make Israel abide by The Hague courts order because this would mean a "public suicide" for Israel. South Africa made a plea with the ICJ last week to have Israel halt its military assault on the densely populated Gaza city, near the border with Egypt. South Africas international relations and cooperation director, Zane Dangor, welcomed the ruling, saying it was the most explicit order for Israel to stop military operations in a Gaza territory. Dangor compared the order to a legal call for a ceasefire because it ordered "the major party in this conflict to end its belligerent action." He said South Africa would next approach the UN Security Council to ensure that Israel complied with the ICJ decision.UN Chief on ICJ Ruling on Rafah Offensive: Decisions Are Binding"The Secretary-General recalls that, pursuant to the Charter and to the Statute of the Court, decisions of the Court are binding and trusts that the parties will duly comply with the Order from the Court," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's office said in a statement.In accordance with the Statute of the Court, the secretary-general will promptly transmit the notice of the provisional measures ordered by the court to the Security Council, the statement added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240516/netanyahu-says-israel-can-win-fight-against-hamas-in-gaza-without-us-help-1118466870.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240520/un-gaza-facing-apocalyptic-famine-1118533340.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/orban-calls-talks-about-russian-threat-wests-maneuver-to-prepare-for-war-1118611358.html

Orban Calls Talks About 'Russian Threat' West's Maneuver to Prepare for War

Orban Calls Talks About 'Russian Threat' West's Maneuver to Prepare for War

Sputnik International

It is unlikely that Russia will attack a NATO country and talks about the "Russian threat" are nothing but a maneuver of the West to prepare for a war, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Friday.

2024-05-24T06:26+0000

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"The likelihood that someone  we are not just talking about Russia, but about anyone  today will decide to attack a NATO country is extremely small. NATO is a defensive alliance and will not tolerate military actions that violate the sovereignty of any NATO country ... Therefore, I interpret these references to the 'Russian threat' rather as maneuvers by the West and Europe to prepare for entry into war," Orban told the Kossuth radio broadcaster. Statements by Western politicians and media reports indicate that Europe is preparing for a war with Russia, the prime minister added. "Before the two world wars, the media spent quite a long time preparing for entry into the war. I think that what is happening today in Brussels and Washington, but rather in Brussels than in Washington, is a kind of preparation of sentiment for a possible direct conflict. We can calmly say that preparations are underway for Europe to enter the war, this is happening in the media and in the statements of politicians," Orban said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240419/the-west-one-step-away-from-sending-troops-to-ukraine-orban-warns-1118015732.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/philippines-opens-new-surveillance-station-near-taiwan-amid-us-led-militarization-1118612217.html

Philippines Opens New Surveillance Station Near Taiwan Amid US-Led Militarization

Philippines Opens New Surveillance Station Near Taiwan Amid US-Led Militarization

Sputnik International

Amid rising tensions between Beijing and Manila over the disputed waters in the South China Sea, an increasingly militarized Philippines triggered further ire in China by taking part in massive Balikatan joint drills with the US earler this month.

2024-05-24T10:10+0000

2024-05-24T10:10+0000

2024-05-24T10:10+0000

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The Philippines has opened a new Coast Guard station on an island facing Taiwan to boost surveillance.The monitoring station on the island of Itbayat in the northern Batanes province will be tasked with gathering data and intelligence to enhance maritime domain awareness and strengthen the security measures along Luzon Strait, National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said in a statement.The strategic move falls in line with the US-led master plan to offset perceived threats from China. The Philippine official cited Beijings alleged military buildup in the Luzon Strait and presence of China-flagged research and/or survey vessels.The Luzon Strait lies between the Philippines island of Luzon and Taiwan. Itbayat is some 200 kilometers away from Cape Eluanbi, the southernmost point on the island of Taiwan. The new facility was inaugurated on Thursday in a ceremony led by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) chief Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.The move will serve to enhance the PCGs capabilities in an area that is very important, being the northern tip of the country; our borders are porous and we need to monitor whats happening there, spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo was cited as telling the Philippine Daily Inquirer.The timing of the stations inauguration coincided with Chinas sweeping military drills around Taiwan in a strong punishment for the separatist acts of "Taiwan independence" forces and a "stern warning" to interference and provocation by external forces.China's drills also come as the US has been further stoking tensions in the region with a swathe of joint military exercises. The expansive US-Philippines Balikatan war games in April were held near the South China Sea, where both Beijing and Manila have territorial claims.Ther PRC slammed the drills as only serving to further exacerbate regional tensions. The Philippines "should understand that drawing in countries outside the South China Sea to flex their muscles and stoke confrontation in the region will only intensify tensions and undermine regional stability," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said in a statement.Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte also warned current President Bongbong Marcos Jr. about the risks of kowtowing to the US, while accusing Washington of trying to provoke a war between the Philippines and China. The Philippines, a key US ally in the region that hosts its military bases, is being increasingly militarized by the US in an effort to shape the island nation into a "proxy for a potential conflict with China, geopolitical analysts told Sputnik.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240422/southeast-asia-on-course-for-ukraine-style-crisis-amid-us-militarization-of-philippines-1118061126.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/prime-minister-netanyahu-announces-detailed-plans-on-israel-lebanon-border-1118609664.html

Prime Minister Netanyahu Announces 'Detailed' Plans on Israel-Lebanon Border

Prime Minister Netanyahu Announces 'Detailed' Plans on Israel-Lebanon Border

Sputnik International

Israeli Prime Minister announced that he heard detailed plans from the IDF about restoring security to Israel's northern border with Lebanon, but said he would not share them.

2024-05-24T02:49+0000

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"We are constantly in action on the northern front. As of now we have eliminated hundreds of Hezbollah militants and we are still poised  even today. I just received a briefing from the head of Northern Command and I also spoke with the division commanders. We have detailed, important, and even surprising plans," Netanyahu said as quoted by his office.He said he will not share these plans. The situation on the Israeli-Lebanese border worsened after the start of Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip in October 2023. The Israeli army and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters fire at each other's positions in areas along the border on a daily basis.According to the Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics, there are at least 135,000 Israelis who have been internally displaced since October 7.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240511/israeli-army-struck-destroyed-5-hezbollah-military-structures-in-lebanon---statement--1118382882.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/putin-will-discuss-with-lukashenko-security-issues-tactical-nuclear-drills-1118608988.html

Putin Will Discuss With Lukashenko Security Issues, Tactical Nuclear Drills

Putin Will Discuss With Lukashenko Security Issues, Tactical Nuclear Drills

Sputnik International

Russian President Putin announced he plans to discuss with Lukashenko security issues and the participation of Belarus in the upcoming exercises on the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons.

2024-05-24T01:41+0000

2024-05-24T01:41+0000

2024-05-24T01:41+0000

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"A lot [in the Russia-Belarus relationship] has been done by our colleagues [Russian and Belarusian government officials] recently with our direct participation and support. Today and tomorrow, we will discuss all this, including security issues, to which you pay significant attention. There is also a lot to talk about here. Everything is stable and going well with us," Putin told a meeting with Lukashenko taking place at Minsk Airport. The Russian president added that they plan to discuss the participation of Belarus in the upcoming exercises on the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons. Putin thanked Lukashenko for "the opportunity to arrive in the evening, talk informally and chat." Putin added that almost all areas of cooperation with Minsk were discussed, including cooperation in industry, energy, agriculture, and security issues. The Russian leader said some government officials will come to participate in the talks in Minsk on Friday, while those who will not come sent their greetings and wished prosperity to Belarus. "We have a very big agenda. I am glad I had a chance to come today," Putin said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240520/russia-to-conduct-military-drills-to-test-tactical-nuclear-weapons-in-due-timeframe---kremlin-1118542940.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/russias-share-in-global-wheat-export-to-surpass-25-in-2024-1118617085.html

Russias Share in Global Wheat Export to Surpass 25% in 2024

Russias Share in Global Wheat Export to Surpass 25% in 2024

Sputnik International

In its Grain Market Report, the International Grains Council (IGC) has increased its forecast of Russian wheat exports by 1 million tons to a record 53.1 million. That means Russia will occupy almost 26 percent of the market for the first time in history, Sputnik explains.

2024-05-24T16:25+0000

2024-05-24T16:25+0000

2024-05-24T16:25+0000

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The world's grain trade body predicts Russia will corner a quarter of the global market for wheat and other cereals this year.The IGC now expects Russia to export 53.1 million tons of wheat in the current agricultural year, compared to its April forecast of 52.1 million tons. This will be the highest export volume in modern history and will be almost 10 percent more than the 2023 figure.As a result, Russias share of world wheat exports could rise to a record 25.8 percent. The previous high was recorded in the 2017-2018 agricultural year, with a share of 23.4 percent, while the last years share stood at about 23.2 percent.In 2024, global wheat exports will reach 205.7 million tons, compared to 207.4 million in 2023. Significant increases in Russian and Argentine exports (5.9 million tons growth) are offset by decreases from Australia (by 11.2 million tons), Canada (by 2.4 million tons) and the United States (by 1.3 million tons).

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240515/major-grain-hub-to-be-established-in-russias-tatarstan-1118444655.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/sy-hersh-us-diplomacy-needed-to-avoid-ukraines-overwhelming-defeat-1118609945.html

Sy Hersh: US Diplomacy Needed to Avoid Ukraines Overwhelming Defeat

Sy Hersh: US Diplomacy Needed to Avoid Ukraines Overwhelming Defeat

Sputnik International

US diplomatic efforts could have resolved the Ukrainian conflict that Americans and their allies are now unable to win, Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Seymour Hersh said.

2024-05-24T04:00+0000

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"America, in the years Biden has been in office, has spent $175 billion to fight a war that cannot and will not be won. It will only be resolved by diplomacyif rationality prevails in Kiev and Washington," Hersh wrote in a Substack article. In addition, Hersh, citing a longtime senior US official said that the US intelligence community has been concerned about Bidens views on Putin and Russia, which date back to his time serving in the Senate. However, some within the American intelligence community believe that the United States bears its own share of responsibility for the conflict in Ukraine, Hersh added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240505/us-uses-ukrainians-as-sannon-fodder-to-preserve-geopolitical-advantage-1118275527.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/terrorists-being-transferred-to-ukraine-in-big-groups-with-nato-states-help---russian-fsb-1118610598.html

Terrorists Being Transferred to Ukraine in Big Groups With NATO States' Help - Russian FSB

Terrorists Being Transferred to Ukraine in Big Groups With NATO States' Help - Russian FSB

Sputnik International

Terrorists from the Middle East, North Africa and Afghanistan are being transferred to Ukraine in big groups with the assistance of NATO countries, Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Alexander Bortnikov said.

2024-05-24T05:34+0000

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"We are recording the ongoing transfer of mercenaries and fighters of international terrorist organizations from the Middle East, North Africa and Afghanistan to Ukraine in big groups with the assistance of NATO countries. Some of them are used for further terrorist expansion into the CIS," Bortnikov said at a meeting of the Council of Heads of Security Agencies and Special Services of the CIS member states in Bishkek.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240411/uk-prepared-ukrainian-military-for-sabotage-on-black-sea-drilling-rig---russias-fsb-1117866068.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/uae-to-invest-10-billion-in-promising-sectors-of-pakistans-economy---statement-1118609802.html

UAE to Invest $10 Billion in Promising Sectors of Pakistan's Economy - Statement

UAE to Invest $10 Billion in Promising Sectors of Pakistan's Economy - Statement

Sputnik International

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced a $10 billion investment into the promising sectors of Paklistan's economy.

2024-05-24T02:54+0000

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The sides agreed to strengthen and support Pakistans economy, as well as strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The UAE will allocate $10 billion in investment in promising sectors of Pakistans economy, WAM news agency quoted the statement. According to Pakistan Radio, speaking at a roundtable in Abu Dhabi, "Innovate Together: UAE-Pakistan Tech Collaboration" on Thursday, Sharif expressed his government's firm determination to completely transform Pakistan's economy through collaboration, establishment of joint ventures and knowledge-sharing partnership with UAE. He said the government is fully focused on promoting information technology and artificial intelligence in various sectors of Pakistan's economy, including agriculture, mining, and industry to increase exports. According to the Pakistani prime minister, the development of IT skills is necessary to empower youth, who make up 60% of Pakistan's population, and therefore he praised the cooperation between the UAE and Pakistani companies to promote the digitalization of Pakistan's economy.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240511/uae-rejects-israels-plan-to-take-part-in-post-war-gaza-administration-1118382987.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/ukrainian-forces-disguise-bombs-as-coffee-and-sugar-packages---russian-serviceman-1118610429.html

Ukrainian Forces Disguise Bombs as Coffee and Sugar Packages - Russian Serviceman

Ukrainian Forces Disguise Bombs as Coffee and Sugar Packages - Russian Serviceman

Sputnik International

The Ukrainian armed forces have begun to experience an acute shortage of soldiers in the Ugledar area, a company commander of the Russian armed forces told under code name "Pirat" told Sputnik.

2024-05-24T06:06+0000

2024-05-24T06:06+0000

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Ukrainian forces have begun to experience an acute shortage of troops in the Ugledar area, a Russian Armed Forces company commander with the callsign "Pirat" told Sputnik.Ukrainian troops use various tricks to recoup their losses, so they scatter camouflaged bombs from drones, Pirat said.In addition, Ukrainian forces have begun disguising their homemade bombs as coffee, sugar, and chocolate packets. They drop them from drones on Russian positions, Pirat notes."They do it for a reason. We have 'runners.' People who run up to forward positions with food for the fighters. They used to just throw the whole contents of a backpack on the ground. Then fighters started finding hidden explosives in that pile. So now we just hand everything over in packed bags," the commander said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240513/ukraine-lost-over-1000-soldiers-in-dpr-in-battles-with-3-russian-groupings-of-forces-1118407938.html

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Editor's note: Mazu is the most influential sea goddess in China's coastal areas, boasting more than 200 million followers worldwide. In 2009, UNESCO included Mazu belief and customs on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

According to legends, in the year 960, a baby girl named Lin Moniang was born in a small fishing village on Meizhou Island in southeast China's Fujian province. Lin grew up to be clever, diligent and benevolent, helping many people with her kindness and expertise. However, she died young, at age 28, after rescuing her fellow fishermen in a shipwreck. After her death, locals erected a temple and began worshipping Lin as Mazu, the sea goddess.

Many other folktales about Lin's life are widely accepted, with varying details, but all are centered on the core values of love and devotion, as well as her personal charisma. Folklore experts believe the worship of Mazu also profoundly relates to the turbulence of the ancient times in which she lived.

The year 960 marked the start of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), ushering in stability after the chaotic and divisive Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (907-979). However, people in northern China still faced frequent conflicts with the Liao, Western Xia and Jin dynasties. This led many to flee south to coastal areas, where they integrated with local culture and contributed to the development of Mazu beliefs and customs as they sought protection from the deity.

Since the Song Dynasty, Mazu's reputation gradually grew, with imperial courts expanding temples, building new statues, and bestowing official titles on the goddess. As a result, Mazu, which means "maternal ancestor" in Chinese, is also known by various other names and titles, such as the Queen of Heaven and the Holy Heavenly Mother.

Originally revered as a deity who protects the lives and voyages of fishermen and sailors, Mazu's believers now also pray to her for peace, pregnancy, or general well-being. Having been worshipped for over 1,000 years, Mazu currently has about 200 to 300 million followers in more than 20 countries and regions. Overseas Chinese communities often regard Mazu belief and customs as a cultural bond with their motherland.

Mazu's believers commonly hold worship ceremonies twice a year  one commemorating her birthday on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, and the other marking her death on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. According to UNESCO, these ceremonies are held in more than 5,000 Mazu temples worldwide.

On Meizhou Island, Mazu's birthplace, these sacred events are significant to both locals and visitors. It is said that Mazu's believers, who live far away from Meizhou, treat their visits to Meizhou's temple as one of the most important events in their lives.

On the day of the ceremony, Meizhou's local residents and fishermen usually suspend their work and worship the deity's statue in the temple, following certain religious rituals and traditional customs. They present offerings to the deity, light candles, burn incense, display lanterns, and hold various performances.

Worship of Mazu can also take place within individual families. Family members usually place the statue of the deity on an altar table at home or on their boat. They also burn incense, make offerings, and pray for a safe voyage and a better life.

"Deeply integrated into the lives of coastal Chinese and their descendants, belief in and commemoration of Mazu is an important cultural bond that promotes family harmony, social concord, and the social identity of these communities," says UNESCO. In 2009, UNESCO added Mazu belief and customs to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Discover more treasures from China on UNESCO's ICH list:

 2022: Traditional tea processing

 2020: Wangchuan ceremony, taijiquan

 2018: Lum medicinal bathing of Sowa Rigpa

 2016: Twenty-four solar terms

 2013: Abacus-based Zhusuan

 2012: Training plan for Fujian puppetry performers

 2011: Shadow puppetry, Yimakan storytelling

 2010: Peking opera, acupuncture and moxibustion, wooden movable-type printing, watertight-bulkhead technology of Chinese junks, Meshrep

 2009: Yueju opera, Xi'an wind and percussion ensemble, traditional handicrafts of making Xuan paper, traditional firing techniques of Longquan celadon, Tibetan opera, sericulture and silk craftsmanship, Regong arts, Nanyin, Khoomei, Mazu belief and customs
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/us-not-planning-to-let-post-war-gaza-slip-out-of-its-grasp-1118610808.html

US Not Planning to Let Post-War Gaza Slip Out of Its Grasp

US Not Planning to Let Post-War Gaza Slip Out of Its Grasp

Sputnik International

The US has every intention of being involved in post-war Gaza affairs, Politico reported.To this end, the Biden administration is considering appointing a US official to serve as its top civilian adviser in the region.

2024-05-24T08:31+0000

2024-05-24T08:31+0000

2024-05-24T08:31+0000

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The US has every intention of playing a significant role in post-war Gaza affairs, Politico reported.To stake out its claim, the Biden administration is considering appointing a US official to serve as its top civilian adviser in the region after the latest spiral of Palestine-Israel violence ends, four US officials were cited as saying.The adviser would ostensibly be working in close contact with the commanding officer  a Palestinian or representative of an Arab nation - of a force likely made up of mostly Palestinians.The degree of official authority that such an adviser would have is being debated in private discussions involving the White House, Pentagon, and State Department, the report said.It was underscored that such a potential US adviser would not enter the embattled enclave itself, purportedly to avoid any implication that the US would be dictating the future of the territory. Accordingly, the sources said the adviser could be based in Sinai or Jordan.The "adviser" plan is just one of various post-war scenarios involving the US being considered by Washington, said the insiders. It comes as the Biden administration has been struggling to juggle duly outraged bombast about the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza with 'business as usual' weapons sales to its ally Israel. Furthermore, while the US has long prided itself on its oversized role in 'mediating' relations between Israel and Palestine, these efforts have so far fallen flat.One other contentious issue is the makeup of a possible future peacekeeping force in the region. Washington reportedly hopes to persuade Arab states such as the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Morocco to join the force. However, getting Israel to agree to it will be challenging, the publication acknowledged.We have talked about a number of different formulas for some kind of interim security forces in Gaza and we have talked to a lot of partners about how the United States could support that with all of our capabilities from outside Gaza, one senior administration official was quoted as saying.Furthermore, there has been talk of setting up an interim governing structure made up of Gazans. The US, Israel, and other regional players are believed to be in favor of such a "Palestinian Council."The official recognition of Palestinian statehood by Norway, Ireland, and Spain on May 28 is seen as a sign that some US allies are pushing for a sovereign state of Palestine.The covert planning regarding post-war Gaza involving a civilian adviser and peacekeeping force echoes ideas floated in a classified March State Department paper seen by Politico.In it, the Department of State proposed creating a Temporary Security Mission for Gaza (TSMG) in the form of a hybrid model of police and Carabinieri/gendarmerie, per the document. The document noted that the mission should not be a US-commanded one, as it would likely encounter fierce resistance by the Palestinian people given US support for Israels military campaign in Gaza. The force reportedly needed to be comprised of Palestinians and representatives of Arab-speaking countries, and was to be led by an appropriately senior officer from the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, or Israel.It was added in the "top secret" paper that Washington would not send troops to Gaza. Instead, it would send a US civilian to take on the role of a director-general to manage coordination, advisory and training tasks.As for Israel, reports indicated earlier in May that Israeli government officials have been quietly discussing a scheme to rule Gaza once the war is over.Citing individuals familiar with the talks, The New York Times wrote that Israel appeared ready to share oversight of the strip with Arab countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as with the US.However, as talk of post-war Gaza continues, negotiations on a ceasefire and the return of hostages have stalled, while the plight of Palestinians in the enclave goes from bad to worse.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240504/israels-plan-for-postwar-gaza-ignores-will-of-palestinians-and-regional-players-1118258229.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/bahrain-asking-for-moscows-support-for-gaza-peace-summit-another-sign-of-us-influence-waning-1118609305.html

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Svetlana Ekimenko

post-war gaza, future us role in gaza, biden administration considering appointing a us official to serve as its top civilian adviser in gaza, the gaza strip, israel's gaza war, israel seeking to share oversight of the gaza strip with the us and arab nations, two state solution, israel's proposal contradicts two state solution, palestinian state, legitimazing palestinian state, hamas, majority of gaza population supports hamas, who will rule gaza after the war, normalization of relations between israel and arab nations
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240524/zelensky-no-longer-legitimate-president-of-ukraine---putin-1118616984.html

Zelensky No Longer Legitimate President of Ukraine - Putin

Zelensky No Longer Legitimate President of Ukraine - Putin

Sputnik International

Volodymyr Zelenesky's constitutionally-mandated term as Ukraine's president expired on May 21. The leader canceled elections planned for March or April last... 24.05.2024, Sputnik International

2024-05-24T14:49+0000

2024-05-24T14:49+0000

2024-05-24T18:00+0000

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volodymyr zelensky

ukraine

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President Zelensky's legitimacy has expired, and Russia will proceed from this fact, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said.Putin recommended anyone looking for answers regarding Zelensky's legal status to look to the Ukrainian Constitution - which does not authorize the artificial extension of his presidential term under the pretext of martial law.Lukashenko echoed Putin's assessment, saying that "there is no legal integrity, and cannot be any legal integrity" on this question.The Belarusian president added that there were plenty of people in Ukraine, both in the military and among civilians, who would like to lead the country, and "in a new way, [either] toward war or against war."A defiant Zelensky has rejected questions on his legitimacy from his critics in Ukraine, and from Kiev's Western 'partners'. "My five-year term is not over yet. It is continuing due to martial law," Zelensky told Reuters on Tuesday.Ukrainian parliament speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk warned Wednesday that Kiev would consider anyone who doubts Zelensky's legitimacy "enemies of Ukraine" and "political bottom-feeders."Putin emphasized at Friday's press conference that Russia remains ready to resume peace negotiations with Ukraine, including based on the draft agreements inked during talks in Belarus and Turkiye in the spring of 2022, but accounting for the current realities on the ground.As for the upcoming 'peace talks' in Switzerland scheduled for mid-June, which Russia has no plans to attend, Putin suggested that they constitute an effort by the Kiev regime's sponsors to confer legitimacy on Zelensky now that his legal term as president is expired.The Biden administration has yet to comment on the issue of Zelensky's status publicly. However, the European Commission and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock assured on Tuesday that he is legitimate."It's impossible to organize elections in such a situation," European Commission spokesman Peter Stano told reporters. "We (in the EU) also have no doubts that the president of Ukraine is Volodymyr Zelensky."Russia's involvement in the proxy war with NATO in Ukraine did not interfere with its ability to hold elections, with a presidential vote held this past March, and involving everyone eligible to vote, including soldiers at the front. Regional elections took place in September 2023.Volodymyr Zelensky stepped into office as Ukraine's president in May 2019 on a platform which included normalizing relations with Russia and ending the conflict in the Donbass. The former showbiz star and comedian scrapped those plans in December 2019 in the face of street protests threatening to overthrow his administration over his readiness to agree to implement the Minsk Accords. He made no additional steps toward a peaceful resolution to the crisis after that, and instead attempted to move Ukraine in the direction of joining NATO - one of the key planks of the February 2014 Euromaidan coup d'etat which triggered the current crisis.

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When George Fenno III retired after 21 years as a military police officer, he had little doubt about what he wanted to do with his free time. The disabled veteran had just purchased a farm in Bell, Florida, adjacent to the Gilcrest Training Center, so he was well on his way to pursuing one of his lifes dreams.

The sport arose naturally to the 66-year-old native of Maine. Born in a logging cabin in the remote Northern part of the state, he grew up in Buxton, near his uncle Ralph Fenno who raced harness horses all over New England.

George Fenno III continued to dabble with Standardbreds throughout his early years, owning his first horse at age 15 and racing him at nearby Scarborough Downs. He sold the horse a few years later and then enrolled in Blacksmith School. Finding that becoming a farrier was not a perfect fit for him, he immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army.

Fenno spent the next 20-plus years as a military policeman (MP), serving in Germany, Korea and at several Army bases stateside. He met his wife of 43 years, Sheila, while serving his country, and retired with the rank of first sergeant.

However, the horses were always on his mind. While on leave he would travel to visit his cousin and mentor, Tim Fenno, who was a second trainer for Jack Kopas.

Tim would say, Jog this one, and I will tell you who it is when you get back to the barn, Fenno recalled. I got to sit behind such great horses as Indianapolis, Roses Are Red and Jade Prince.

Fondly remembering those miles at Roosevelt in the sports heyday, after retirement he began working for Kevin Switzer Sr. in Maine. Fenno credits him and the dynamic brothers Heath and Drew Campbell for continuing to teach him about horsemanship and managing a stable.

Fenno, himself a disabled veteran, was sure that his lifelong passion for racing would not only help him stay active, but also be an inspiration to other veterans that may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other disabilities.

Its been a tough road adjusting to civilian life, admitted Fenno. You never really get a good nights sleep in the barracks or out on the wall. The uncertainty of rocket or gun fire at any moment takes its toll.

Now, Fenno credits arriving at his Windsor Fairgrounds barn every morning with improving his outlook and demeanor, as well as helping him to improve and maintain his career-life balance.

Drug abuse and alcoholism are a detriment to many who have served, Fenno conceded. It truly is a struggle, every day. Sometimes it is a challenge just to get out of bed.

Racing horses has helped, a lot. While appreciating the serenity and beauty of his summertime Northern location, Fenno is really looking forward to this Saturday at Cumberland Raceway where his horse Instant Replay will look to make it two-in-a-row in race nine.

Last week, Walter Case Jr. steered Instant Replay to a decisive 1:58.2 victory at Bangors historic Bass Park. The four-year-old son of Lazarus N had six wins in 14 seasonal starts last year, earning $27,300, racing up and down the east coast. While most of his success was enjoyed in the Pine Tree State, winning four in a row at Maines commercial tracks, the horse also picked up checks for Fenno at Yonkers, Plainridge and Harrington.

Having trained and driven off-and-on for the past 20-plus years, last weeks victory with Instant Replay was Fennos first career pari-mutuel training win. However, he feels that this triumph belongs to all of his fellow veterans.

Believe it or not, as difficult as it was, it was my time in the Army that has given me the discipline and the strength to get to where I am today, Fenno stated.

An affable guy who is known as Three Sticks around the racetrack, his nickname was bestowed upon him by a Maine racing official due to the large roman numeral three on the sleeves of his black and navy blue colours.

And while Fenno is not the only harness horseman in the state of Maine with a military background, he certainly is a champion for the armed services.

In fact, Mainers have a proud and lengthy history of military service. Certainly no one can forget Colonel Joshua Chamberlain and his extraordinary bayonet-led charge of the 20th Regiment Maine Volunteer Infantry that helped secure the left flank on Little Round Top at the Battle of Gettysburg.

More recently, the state is honourably represented by Brigadier General Diane L. Dunn who has assumed her duties as the 41st Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard. A former Maine State Racing Commissioner, Dunn and her husband Jim have raced horses in Maine for decades.

In addition, First Tracks Cumberland principle Mike Cianchette is a Lieutenant Commander in his local Navy Reserve.

However, the history of Maines prominence in veterans affairs is indeed preeminent. Pursuant to a law signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1965, the state of Maine became the site of the very first hospital for wounded veterans, where the first such Civil War hero was admitted to a facility known as Togus (near Augusta, ME) on Nov. 10, 1866. Later, President Ulysses S. Grant visited Togus in 1873 to review the soldiers who had served under him during that gloomy period in our nations history.

Still serving veterans to this day, Fenno credits the current Togus VA counselors with helping to save him. He admits that he was, not afraid to ask for help, which is often the biggest obstacle for many of those in his shoes.

The horses and the counselors at Togus, Americas first veterans hospital, help me get out of bed, and give me the courage to push through each and every day, he stated. They really care!

Sergeant Fenno knows that a lot of soldiers are in a similar spot emotionally and mentally, but very few get the chance to experience the horse business first hand.

Working with racehorses forces me to be a better person, and to get up in the morning to feed and care for them, Fenno confirmed.

In fact, he goes out of his way to engage with any veteran he encounters in his everyday life.

Get involved with harness racing, or adopt a retired racehorse, he tells them. When you touch that animal, your life will change.

(First Tracks Cumberland)
The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame (CHRHF) hosted its annual Presidents Reception on Wednesday, May 22 at Woodbine Racetrack.

At the reception held on Wednesday afternoon, Bill Ford, newly appointed President of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame, welcomed a capacity crowd of racing industry supporters, Hall of Fame honoured members and incoming inductees. During his remarks, Ford thanked outgoing President, Darryl Kaplan, for the accomplishments during his six-year tenure in the position including several new projects and initiatives that will benefit the Hall for many years to come.

Co-hosts Kelly Spencer and Robert Geller introduced the Class of 2024 inductees:

Dr. Moira Gunn - Builder

Sylvain Filion - Driver

Ed Tracey - Driver

Dr. Ian Moore - Trainer

Ross Cowboy Curran - Veteran

Bee A Magician - Standardbred Female Horse

Glen Todd - Thoroughbred Builder

Patrick Husbands - Jockey

Dan Vella  Trainer

Richard Grubb - Veteran

Starship Jubilee - Thoroughbred Female Horse

Channel Maker - Thoroughbred Male Horse

At the gathering, the connections of the 2022 and 2023 horse inductees were the first to receive a personalized Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame stall plate, with plans to continue that practice for all future horse inductees. The stall plates will also be made available to previously inducted horses.

Class of 2022 and 2023 horse connections presented with stall plates.

The permanent biography panels for the Classes of 2022 and 2023 were then unveiled for:

CHRHF Class of 2022:

Eurico Rosa Da Silva - Jockey

Jack Darling - Standardbred Trainer

Charles E. Fipke - Thoroughbred Builder

Gilles Gendron - Standardbred Veteran

Frank Salive - Standardbred Communicator

Alydeed - Thoroughbred Veteran

Court Vision - Thoroughbred Male Horse

Shadow Play - Standardbred Male Horse

CHRHF Class of 2023:

Chris Christoforou - Driver

Irwin Driedger - Jockey

Dr. Lloyd S. McKibbin, DVM - Standardbred Builder

R. Glenn Sikura - Thoroughbred Builder

Bulldog Hanover - Standardbred Male Horse

Formal Gold - Thoroughbred Veteran

Pink Lloyd - Thoroughbred Male Horse

Pure Ivory - Standardbred Female Horse

Unveiling the panels of the CHRHF Classes of 2022 and 2023.

The 2024 Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame Induction will take place Wednesday, Aug. 7 at the Mississauga Convention Centre. Tickets can be purchased for an early bird price of $225 each plus tax by contacting Linda Rainey, CHRHF Managing Director, by phone at 416-417-9404 or by email at admin@horseracinghalloffame. com.

(CHRHF; photo shows five presidents of the CHRHF, left to right: Darryl Kaplan [2018-2023], Past President; Bill Ford, current president; Ted Smith [2006-2009], Glenn Sikura [2001-2005], John Stapleton [2010-2017])
Executives from Standardbred Canada (SC) and the United States Trotting Association (USTA) met Tuesday, May 21 at the SC offices in Mississauga, Ont. to discuss mutual concerns and possible synergies between the two organizations.

The meeting was organized by Darryl Kaplan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Standardbred Canada, who attended the USTAs annual board of directors meeting earlier this year in Columbus, Ohio and, in a conversation there with USTA president Russell Williams, suggested establishing a dialogue.

Mike Tanner (EVP/CEO) and T.C. Lane (COO) represented the USTA on Tuesday. Joining Kaplan were Janet Cookson (Manager, Information Technology), Linda Bedard (Registrar/Manager of Member Services), Val Boom (Racing Services Manager), Jade Regina (Member and Stakeholder Relations Manager) and Darlene Kidd-Bailey (Executive Assistant). The all-day session covered an array of topics, including data privacy and protection, graded stakes, Standardbred wellness and advocacy, horse identification, outreach efforts, and potential shared programs meant to promote the sport and participation on both sides of the border.

It was an extremely productive and enjoyable day, said Tanner, and Im glad that we were able to sit down and really take the time to dig into some important issues. Darryl and his team were gracious hosts, and T.C. and I went home with several ideas about how we might collaborate more with Standardbred Canada going forward. This wont be the last time we get together.

"The value of meeting face-to-face with our colleagues from the USTA is immeasurable," said Kaplan. "We are very appreciative that Mike, T.C. and the USTA team are open to working with us through challenges and opportunities to move our industry forward. We have committed to building on these meetings and taking important next steps in a number of areas."

Both SC and USTA have agreed to collaborate in the near future and to engage the industry in efforts aimed at furthering Standardbred racing and breeding across North America.

(Standardbred Canada / U.S. Trotting Association)
Officials with the Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission (APHRC) have provided Trot Insider with details regarding upcoming meetings at Northside Downs and Inverness Raceway.

APHRC officials will hold a drivers' meeting at Northside Downs on Saturday, May 25, 2024. The meeting will take place at 12 p.m. in the second level of the grandstand.

At Inverness Raceway, a Paddock Meeting will be held on Sunday, May 26, 2024 in the paddock barn at 12 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

Next week, judges will hold a drivers' meeting at Inverness on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at 12 p.m.

(Standardbred Canada)